Indo American News • Friday, October 15 , 2010
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Friday, October 15 2010 | Vol. 29, No. 42
Indo American News
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W RLD DOMINATION
It is clearly world domination as India cruises to a 2-0 victory against Australia in which Sachin Tendulkar scored his 6th Double 100 in 171 tests and also became the first player to score 14,000 test runs.
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Families observe Kolu Tradition $5,000 offered for return
of Holy Hare Krishna Idols
FEATURED INSIDE
Taking tradition to Texas. Women and children revel in the joys of keeping kolu. In the picture above, Luckmi Pawa and her daughter Ria with the kolu at their Stafford home. Photo: Kalyani Giri. story on page 10 Indian Healer Leads Workshops in City Story on Pg 5
By Peggy O’Hare HOUSTON (Chronicle): Officials with Houston’s oldest Hare Krishna temple are asking the vandals who stole two sacred statues from the house of worship this week to return them, promising no questions will be asked. The thieves probably stole the deities from the ISKCON of Houston Temple at 1320 W. 34th St. because they mistakenly thought the statues were made of gold, but they are made of brass, said
Sara Appliances & Electronics Opens in Sugar Land Story on Pg 6
Chirag Bhatt, a spokesman for the temple. The crime, worshippers said, would be akin to stealing a crucifix from a Roman Catholic church. A $5,000 reward is being offered for the deities’ return. “To be very honest with you, yesterday morning when I found out, I felt as if someone in the family had passed away,” Bhatt said. “According to our Hindu scripture, because those deities are
continued on page 9
Indian-origin democrat endorsed by Barack obama
SAN FRANCISCO: IndianAmerican Democratic politician Kamala Devi Harris has won the endorsement from Barack Obama, making her the first among the half-a-dozen Indianorigin politicians contesting the November 2 mid-term elections to get the support from the US President. 45-year-old Harris, who is contesting for the Attorney General of California, has done a remarkable job, said Obama. “Kamala has done a remarkable job in San Francisco. Now it’s time to send her to Sacramento so she can get those same results for all Californians -- but she needs our help if she’s going to win this race,” Obama said in his endorsement message. Harris is running against Steve Cooley, a Republican candidate who cur currently serves as district attorney for Los Angeles County.
Asian Design Professionals Celebrate 25th Gala Story on Pg 22 Story on Pg 25
Flamboyant Indian test player Farokh Engineer was the keynote speaker at TiE Houston in the Petroleum Club
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south Asian chamber of commerce celebrates 17th Anniversary with Ancient wisdom from Vedanta
By Kalyani Giri HOUSTON: Swami Parthasarathy, the renowned exponent of Vedanta and author of scholarly treatises on the ancient Indian philosophy of life and living, was the keynote speaker at the South Asian Chamber of Commerce (SACC) 17th Anniversary Gala held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on October 9, 2010. About 300 gatherees sat riveted as the swami regaled them with words of wisdom geared to awaken perception and self-realization. “Vedanta is the knowledge needed for living,” said Swami Parthasarathy, who was introduced to guests by Harris County Judge Ed Emmett, the event’s Honorary Chair. “All other creatures have a built-in program to live their lives, it’s all fixed. Human beings on the other hand, have choice of action and still do not know how to live their lives. Living is an art, a technique. Life is a series of experiences between you and the world. Develop your intellect, and never take anything for granted. Question everything, intelligence is nothing without intellect,” added the swami. The Vedanta master, a global corporate resource on ef effective management, ethical leadership, productivity, and other related topics, made for an ideal
Organization this year feted the Asian Pacific American Heritage Association (APAHA) for community involvement. A spirited live auction was conducted by Ghulam Bombaywala and Munir Ibrahim, former presidents of SACC. Co-Chairing the 2010 Gala were Munira Panjawani and Nomaan Husain and their gala committee. SACC Board Vice Keynote Speaker for the evening, Swami President Asif Dakri From left: President of SACC, Nomaan Husain, Co-chair Ash Parthasarathy, renowned Vedanta exponent. Shah, Gala chair Munira Panjwani, and Co-chair Mustafa moved the Vote of Tameez receiving the proclamation from Terry O’ Neil of the Thanks. choice of speaker at the SACC Mayor’s office. Dinner was catered event themed Ancient Wisdom for Modern Life. The venerable orga- tive,” said Tameez and Shah. In fulfilling the purpose of the by Madras Pavilion Restaurant. nization representing eight south President of SACC Nomaan Hu- Gala, SACC brought the comIf you receive your paper more than 4 Asian nations has served as a veri- sain listed the accomplishments of munity together to celebrate and days after the Dateline, please file a table springboard for many of this the organization, introduced and recognize success of outstanding complaint with your post office or call the USPS Consumer Affairs Office city’s luminary businessmen. thanked his Board of Directors for individuals in the areas of Busiat 713-226-3442 In their joint welcome address, 2010, and recognized dignitaries ness, Professionalism, and ComSACC Board co-chairs Mustafa in attendance. munity Service. This year the News (ISSN 887-5936) Tameez and Ash Shah told of the “During this year my goal was Board presented the Outstanding Indo-American is published weekly on every Friday (for timeliness of Swami Parthasara- to utilize the existing expertise South Asian Entrepreneur to Ah- a subscription price of $30 per year) by thy’s message. and professional talent within the mad Mian, Founder, President Indo-American News Inc., 7457 Harwin “We are so busy trying to bal- chamber to build new relationships and CEO of FileControl Partners, Dr., Suite 262, Houston, Texas 77036, ance our professions, family ob- and strengthen our community in- Ltd. Heart surgeon Dr. Kota Red- Tel: 713-789-6397, Fax: 713-789-6399, Email: indoamericannews@yahoo.com. ligations and civic duties, it gets volvement with broader business dy was the recipient of SACC’s Periodical postage paid at Houston, harder everyday. Our guest speak- and political leadership here in Outstanding South Asian Profes- Texas. POSTMASTER: Please send ader in his infinite wisdom will help Houston as well as in communities sional award. The SACC Out- dress changes to Indo-American News, us put things in the right perspec- outside this city,” said Husain. standing South Asian Community 7457 Harwin Dr., Suite 262, Houston, Texas 77036.
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AAFS Holds a Gala that Leaves Many Inspired
HOUSTON: On October 7, Asian American Family Service held its annual gala billed as the Golden Tapestry Ball named for the interweaving of the myriad cultures that bring all of us, in the greater Houston region, together. The evening was one of exuberance and celebration with dignitaries and community leaders gracing the ballroom of the Hilton Post Oak. Among the guests were Congresswomen Sheila Jackson Lee, Missouri City Mayor Allen Owen, Sugar Land City Councilwomen Jacquie Baly Chaumette, former Houston City Councilman Gordan Quan, Dr. Steven Schnee E.D., Mental Health Mental Retardation. Community leaders, Munira Panjwani, Yuki Rodgers, Sam Merchant and business leaders Donna Cole, Wei Lee, Ghulam Bombaywala, just to name a few. The aim of the annual gala is twofold: to raise funds for the upcoming year and to tell the story of the lives of the families AAFS impacts and the mission was accomplished on both fronts. AAFS is the only mental health agency of its kind in the entire southwest region of the United States. Established in 1994, its mission is to provide culturally competent mental health service by providing bilingual and bi cultural counseling and support services to its patients. AAFS is uniquely positioned to
From left: Munir Ibrahim, President, Asian Amerian Family Services, Ghulam Bombaywala (Golden Lantern Award Recipient), Faye Chin, William Kao, Mandy Kao (Golden Lantern Award Recipient) and Garia Hu
provide services, to the fast growing Asian population, in languages ranging from Hindi, Burmese, Vietnamese, Mandarin, Korean, Urdu and Cantonese; and provides services such as immigrant and refugee assimilation, clinical and mental health services, children and youth programs, senior programs, and healthy family first programs. The Mistress of Ceremonies, Rogene Calvert welcomed the audience who was treated to a rendition of the Star Spangled Banner by Houston Grand Opera singer Haiyan Song. After the Invocation, AAFS President, Munir Ibrahim took the opportunity to thank the
staff and Board for their dedication to the organization and spoke of the many successes the organization has experienced in the past year; including a long envisioned goal to move into a facility, twice the size of the previous location, so that it is now able to provide a broader range of services to its patients. He spoke of the next phase of AAFS’s growth, a permanent center which will provide services to the community for generations to come and asked for the continued support of the community in accomplishing this goal. A scrumptious dinner was served, whilst the audience was once again treated to Haiyan Song,
From left: Mandy Kao, Harris County Judge candidate Gordan Quan and his wife Alice.
From left: Missouri City Mayor Allen Owen, Munir Ibrahim and Dr. Peter Chang, VP, AAFS
followed by a live auction that included jewelry, art, a fur cape and weekend getaway packages. The silent auction, which included autographed baseballs and jersey’s from some of Houston’s great sports talents, spa packages and artwork, was a huge success.
Haiyan Song of Houston Grand Opera performing at the Gala
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Indian Healer Leads Workshops in City By Kalyani Giri HOUSTON: Avdhoot Baba Shivanand, a social reformist, spiritual healer, and head of the Shiv Yog Foundation, is in this city this month, conducting workshops aimed at guiding seekers and disciples to self-realization through the Siddha Kundalini Yoga (SKY) path. Popularly known as Baba ji to his followers, he told a capacity audience at the non-denominational Unity Church in the southwest area of Houston about the power of Siddha healing. “Siddha Kundalini Yoga is the ideal meditation method for ridding our bodies of disease. The lifespan is short and there are diseases galore. With SKY, you heal yourself while you meditate and you meditate while you heal yourself,” said Baba Shivanand. Siddha healing removes negative energy and also enhances the positive energy of the seeker; the belief is that negativity energy is generated when one is angry or afraid.
The energy settles in the different organs and causes malfunction, which manifests as diseases, said Baba Shivanand. “When we open the chakras, the
centers of spiritual power, and let the energy flow through, we can pass this on to the rest of humanity,” he added. “Through Siddha Healing, we are connected to very high level divine healing energies. Whenever we invoke and
pass this energy through our bodies it increases our vibration level, throwing out problem and diseasecausing negative energy. Chakra cleansing is immediate, and we feel light, clear and joyous almost in a matter of days. And once our bodies are clear and positive, our external lives and situations are simultaneously healed. Mankind was not meant to suffer, but to experience the best of the best on the planet earth. It was only through ignorance and accumulation of negative karma that there is untold suffering,” said Baba Shivanand. The spiritual leader hosts retreats geared to generate healthy minds and bodies. He has conducted a Science Beyond Science conference for doctors and mass healing workshops for seekers. All workshops are at The Unity Church, 2929 Unity Drive, Houston, Tx 77057. For more information, contact Satish Varma at innerstrengthfoundation@yahoo. com.
Indo American News • Friday, October 15 , 2010
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Asian American PAC Endorses Candidates for November 2010 US General Elections
HOUSTON: The Houston determining the outcome of close 80-20 Asian American political local races. action committee (Houston 80Houston 80-20 PAC carefully 20 PAC) has released its list of screens candidates through writendorsements for the November ten questionnaires and inter2010 general election. Hous- views. A 2/3 super majority vote ton 80-20 PAC is a non-partisan of the Endorsement Committee, organization dedicated to keep- which is made up of Republicans, ing the Asian American com- Democrats, and Independents munity in the greater Houston representing the diverse Asian area informed and engaged in American community in Housthe political process. Since many ton, is required for endorsement Asian American voters usually in any race. Houston 80-20 PAC have little knowledge about the will hold a fundraising dinner for credentials or policies of the the above endorsed candidates candidates, Houston 80-20 PAC on Friday, October 15 at Golden has served as a guide by putting Palace Restaurant. Anyone intertogether a list of endorsed candi- ested in attending please contact dates for those races of interest to Cecil Fong at cecil.fong@gmail. the Asian American community. com or call 832-758-2442. Early Past Houston 80-20 PAC en- Voting starts October 20 through dorsements have been pivotal in October 31. The Houston 80-20 PAC has endorsed the following candidates for elected office for election in Nov 2010: U. S. Representative # 9 Honorable Al Green U. S. Representative # 18 Honorable Sheila Jackson Lee State Representative #26 Honorable Charlie Howard State Representative #134 Honorable Kristi Thibaut State Representative #137 Honorable Scott Hochberg State Representative #149 Honorable Hubert Vo Harris County Judge Honorable Gordon Quan District Judge 209th Criminal Court Honorable Mike McSpadden Judge, County Criminal Court No. 15 Honorable Toni Ingverson Treasurer Ft. Bend County K.P. George
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s Appliances & electronics Has sara Formal opening in sugar land By Jawahar Malhotra SUGAR LAND: If you have been in the Bayou City for any length of time, you can hardly get around the desi community without hearing of Ramesh Parikh, a maverick in the desi electronics retailing business with his first store, Sara International, on Harwin Drive near S. Gessner. When the electronics was still in its in-
South. The other, larger 12,000sf store is located at 10516 Katy Freeway at the Gessner exit near the Sam Houston Tollroad. “What sets us apart from the Big Box stores is personalized customer service,” said Parikh at the store’s inauguration held by the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce this past Friday, October 8. “Our sales staff will provide you with all the information
At the inauguration of the newest Sara International store in Sugar Land, Ramesh Parikh and his wife Sudha pose with their son Mehul and his wife Sapna and their two kids and are surrounded their staff and well wishers.
The ribbon cutting for the new store was arranged by the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce on Friday, October 8. Photos; Jawahar Malhotra
fancy and many of us were still computer illiterate, Sara International was a place where you could find the hard to get items and also get excellent service to have the items installed. It was not uncommon to see Parikh running around the store helping customers. Fast-forward 20 years and Sara Appliances & Electronics has opened its second large, 11,000 square foot store in Sugar Land, in the shadow of the Best Buy on First Colony Boulevard near Highway 59
you need to make an intelligent decision. They’ll even come to your home to take measurements!” Parikh’s youngest son Mehul joined the company 8 years ago and manages the store, while he himself shuttles between the two stores and his other real-estate properties and is working on re-opening the Harwin Drive store after a disastrous fire engulfed it two years ago. “But I really enjoy my four beautiful grandkids,” smiled Parikh from his two sons Manish and wife Ami and Me-
hul and his wife Sapna. His two daughters, Monica and Minal are still finishing off college. “Apart from Mehul, all the others are in the medical profession,” he added. The store was informally opened this January but work continued to fit it out with the latest appliances for the kitchen and laundry and home electronics, including a mock-up of a home theater. The design and build
out for displays was by Rick Davis of DC Kitchens, who was there for the occasion. Also on hand for the ribbon cutting was Keri Schmidt, the President of the FBCC. Sara International is located at 16820 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77479; 281-277-1522 and at www.saraae.com
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Indo American News • Friday, October 15 , 2010
Daya’s “One Voice” During National Domestic Violence Awareness Month
HOUSTON: Daya, Inc., in collaboration with the Houston Police Department (HPD), is organizing “One Voice”, a human chain for peace, to increase public awareness against domestic violence. The initiative is a part of the National Domestic Violence Awareness Month and will be held on Saturday, October 32rd, 2010 at Hillcroft Avenue at 12 pm (registration begins at 11:30 am). The human chain will start in front of the Hillcroft Shopping Plaza (5901 Hillcroft Ave.) and proceed to the Westpark Tollway. Parking will be available for all. There will be food, drinks and giveaways available for the participants. This event is free and open to the public. Community Organizations are also invited to join us and distribute their information. Domestic violence is a serious crime that has significant consequences for its victims and the community at large. In 2009, Daya took more than 4000 crisis related calls and served more than 215 victims of domestic
violence. According to a study by the National Institute of Justice and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, domestic violence is the single largest cause of injury to women between the ages of 15 and 44 in the US, (and) occurs among all ages, genders, races, educational background and socioeconomic groups. Each year, between two and four million women are battered and over 300,000 women experience domestic violence while they are pregnant, resulting in the leading cause of death among pregnant women Please join us in spreading the message of violence free homes and healthy relationships. This event is sponsored by Verizon Wireless. For more information about “One Voice”, visit www.dayahouston.org or contact the Daya office 713-981-7645. Photo Opportunities Available.
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stoRy of MahatMa Gandhi
Visit and Programs of england’s e Prince of w wales ales are Boycotted
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During the latter part of 1920 Gandhi advocated a triple boycott. He wanted an absolute boycott of the Government and all government institutions, including schools, colleges, and courts. If the people were free of these they could easily have their own schools, col colleges, and courts, and the power of the British would collapse at once. There was much laughter and ridicule from the moderates and the supporters of British rule. But Gandhi paid no attention. Now read on: Gandhi’s activities made the British government panicky. They issued a warning that anyone who overstepped the bounds of law would be arrested and imprisoned. Gandhi thought that this warning was a victory for the campaign. He issued instructions which the people were to follow if he were arrested. On December 26, the Congress session was held in Nagpur. Though there were signs of opposition to Gandhi’s policies, his resolution was passed with an overwhelming majority. The adoption of the new program at Nagpur was the signal to start the mass movement. Gandhi felt that the complete boycott of all government organizations would give a chance to the Congress to set up a parallel organization, a State within a State which would lead India to Swaraj. The Duke of Connaught was sent to India in 1921 to try to pacify the Indians. He came to open the four legislatures in the country which had been introduced as a result of the reforms announced by the King. His coming and going passed off without any material change in the attitude of Indians towards Britain. Gandhi travelled far and wide, propagating the ideals of nonviolence and noncooperation. Day by day the Indians were getting more and more excited over carrying out Gandhi’s program. Many students left their institutions, many officers resigned their posts. The boycott movement gained momentum. As the people’s morale grew, the morale of the government went down. Repression started. Gandhi advised the people to have patience, and he insisted on nonviolence. He saw the weaknesses of Indians and he urged them to improve. He wanted social reforms and constructive work to be intensively followed. It was announced that the Prince of Wales was to visit India. Functions were arranged at many places to enable him to meet his loyal subjects. Gandhi was indignant when he read the announcement in the newspapers. “Do the British think
we are children?” he said. “Do they believe that parades for the Prince will make us forget atrocities in the Punjab or the perpetual delay in granting us Home Rule?” On Gandhi’s advice the Congress declared that all parades, receptions, and celebrations in honor of the Prince were to be strictly boycotted. “We have no grudge against His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales,” said Gandhi, “but our ideas are against him as a symbol of oppression. We can show the world that such noncooperation is just the reverse of the European doctrine of the sword. Let us act in accordance with the holy prophets of old. Noncooperation without violence is the battle of the brave.” Fearing that there would be disorder when the Prince of Wales visited various places, the government began severe acts of suppression. Thousands of people were arrested. The Indian people were so agitated that in city after city bonfires burned and the bonfires were made with foreign cloth, especially British cloth. On November 17, 1921, the Prince of Wales landed in Bombay. Loyal stooges of Britain went to greet the royal visitor. Those who were observing nonviolent noncooperation did not molest them. However, passion suddenly blazed out. Religious and political hatreds fanned the flames. Riots started, many were killed, much property was destroyed. There was panic in the city. Gandhi was in Bombay, and he rushed to the scene of disorder to stop the rioting. Order was finally restored. “Every man has the right to his religion and his own political opinion. Satyagraha will never succeed until man understands that,” Gandhi announced bitterly. In other cities the boycott of the Prince’s visit was peaceful. As the unfortunate Prince of Wales visited city after city, he- was greeted with empty streets. Not a shop was open.
The people remained behind closed doors and drawn curtains. This infuriated the British and they called upon the government of India to act. Motilal Nehru, Jawaharlal, and other leaders were arrested and sentenced to various terms of imprisonment. Yet the determined courage of the people did not abate. They were ready to suffer any penalty for the cause of Home Rule. Demands had been made to Gandhi that he should start a mass movement for the attainment of Swaraj. Gandhi decided to act. Preparations were made to start satyagraha in Bardoli. But Gandhi had to stop the campaign suddenly because of what had happened ill Bombay and other places. In Chauri Chaura, near Gorakhpur in U.P., some policemen fired on a crowd which was holding a demonstration against the government. This annoyed the demonstrators so much that they became very violent. They chased the police. The police took refuge in the city hall. The angry mob surrounded the hall and set it on fire. Some policemen were burned to death. Others, trying to escape, were killed by the furious mob outside. Gandhi was very upset. He thought that it was clear that the people were still not prepared for satyagraha. He stopped the intended satyagraha at Bardoli. His co-workers did not agree with him, but he was adamant. He wanted his followers to start constructive programs. Many Indians were sorry for Gandhi’s action. They thought that Swaraj was now within their reach and the movement should therefore continue. The Government was playing a waiting game. Instead of thanking Gandhi for stopping the mass movement, they arrested him on charges of sedition and sentenced him to six years’ imprisonment. He was removed to Yeravda Central Jail in Poona. In prison Gandhi settled down to a regime of spinning, writing, and meditation. The people were disappointed and the government tightened its hold. Almost all the leaders were put in jail. Then, in 1924, Gandhi fell ill. He was suffering from appendicitis and was in great pain. The government was alarmed. What would happen if Gandhi died in prison? An urgent operation was arranged, and Gandhi agreed. The operation was successful, but his recovery was very slow. The government thought it best to release him, so he was set free. He went to Juhu, near Bombay, for recovery. — To be continued
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7th Annual International s sikh Film Festival to be Held on o oct 22 in new n york y NEW YORK: The Sikh Art and Film Foundation takes pride in announcing its Seventh Annual Film Festival on October 22 and 23. Faithful to its mission of creating awareness and pride in the diversity, culture and history of the Sikhs, the Festival will showcase exemplary masterpieces in film making, art and direction. The two-day event will offer a range of 12 films, dealing with heartrending Sikh stories across the globe, from both established and emerging filmmakers. The Premiere will be held at Asia Society and Museum, in New York on October 22nd from 7 pm to 9:30 pm. The festival will bring the immigrant experience of the Sikhs to the forefront with a diverse mix of short films. The glamour of the event will be heightened with glitterati walking the red carpet, a champagne reception and an informational Q&A. It will also provide an excellent forum to network with dignitaries, ambassadors, celebrities and corporate leaders. The exclusive films that will be unveiled at this event were selected to elevate ones experience of Sikhism; to teach and to inspire. The two day event will conclude with the Foundations annual Heritage Gala where awards will be presented to winners of the films. Announcing the 2010 Festival and Gala, Mr. Tejinder S. Bindra, President of the Sikh Art and Film Foundation, said “I am humbled with the encouragement and overwhelming response we are getting for our festival year after year. At only the seventh year of its inception the Sikh Film Festival has grown phenomenally. I feel much pride in witnessing the interest of young Sikhs in our culture and their enthusiasm in participating in this event.” He went on to add, “I hope they are inspired by our tradition and culture, and continue to make us proud Sikhs in society.” Vikas Khanna’s, ‘Holy Kitch-
at the Heritage Gala. Concluding the Film Festival will be a glittering Sikh Heritage Gala at the prestigious The New York Public Library at Bryant Park at 7 pm on October 23rd. The evening will celebrate the rich heritage, traditions and culture of the Sikhs with a star studded evening of live performances, dance, art exhibition and auction. Live performance by none other than the bhangra sensation Sukhbir and Oscar performing choreographer Rujata along with DJ music will ensure the black tie event is fun packed and brimming with excite-
ment. The Sikh Arts and Film Foundation also recognize individuals for their contributions toward enriching the Sikh experience. Awards will be presented to individuals who have contributed towards this experience during the Heritage Gala. The honorees for 2010 Heritage Awards are Raj Babbar (for Vision), Padmashree Vikramjit S. Sahney (for Leadership), Arpana Caur (for Art). For tickets (at discounted prices before September 30th), itinerary, and schedule of films please visit http://www.sikharts.com
A screen shots from “Nothing is Impossible” being screened on Oct 23rd at the Asia Society and Museum
ens: A True Business’, directed by Dalit Singh, produced by Andrew Blackmore and Dobbyn Webberz, is about the religious tenet of providing free food (‘Langar’) through its kitchen temples, to all regardless of their belief. The film provides a historical perspective of the origin of Sikhism. ‘HARVEST OF GRIEF,’ directed by Anwar Jamal and produced by Rasil Singh Basu, is a documentary that deals with a farmer’s suicide in Sangrur in south Punjab. The alarming agricultural scenario in Punjab has been caused by a chain of disruptive historical events and myopic government policies. ‘THE REBEL QUEEN,’ directed by Michael Singh deals with how the daughter of an Indian dog kennel, Maharani Jindan, wife of one Maharajah and mother of another, owner almost brought the British Empire to its knees and the ensuing ruthless propaganda to scramble back and fight her. Following the film showcase on
October 22nd, an After Party will take place from 10:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. at the Garden Court, Asia Society. The second day of the Film Festival will be held at the Asia Society and Museum on October 23rd, 2010. Short Films will be showcased from 11 am. to 1:30 pm. and documentaries from 2 pm. – 5 pm. Among the movies that will be showcased at this time are heart rending stories such as ‘Nothing is Impossible,’ ‘Cancer Express’, ‘Riding the Tiger’ and ‘Why? We are killing our daughters’. Present among the panel of distinguished judges will be personalities such as Dr. Narinder S. Kapany (Indian born American physicist, widely acknowledged as the father of optical fiber), Robert Lupone (renowned American actor and artistic director both on stage, film and television) and Vicki Mabrey (correspondent for ABC News’ “Nightline”). Winners of the films will receive cash prizes totaling $15,000 by venerated Raj Babbar
s sri sri s r radha Giridhari Idols stolen s continued from page
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invited to be present in their form in the temple and they were taken forcefully by the person from their location, this particular person has committed a major sin. That person and their family may face very serious consequences not only in this lifetime, but in generations to come.” The northwest Houston temple has never before been burglarized. “That’s probably why this is a bigger shock,” Bhatt said. “It’s beyond the imagination of everyone who visits the temple on a regular basis.” The burglary happened between 9:15 pm Wednesday and 4:30 am. Thursday when the intruders broke in through the temple’s locked back door. The temple’s alarm system was not activated because of ongoing construction
at the building. The deities, which weigh about 15 to 20 pounds and are about 18 to 24 inches long, are known as Sri Sri Radha Giridhari. They have been worshipped by thousands of Hindus in Houston. Worshippers revere them as personalities because the deities are invited to be present in the temple as a gesture of accepting the congregation’s devotional services. The intruders also tried to take other deities that were apparently too heavy for them to lift, Bhatt said. Houston police have alerted pawn shops and businesses that purchase brass objects to be on the lookout for the items. Bhatt asked the thieves to return them, suggesting they could anonymously drop the statues off at the temple in the middle of the night.
“If they’re embarrassed by the action, they can come back in the middle of the night, place them somewhere and just leave them anonymously,” he said. The deities, he added, “don’t belong anywhere but their own home. All we can do is ask for them to bring them back, no questions asked.” Worship services will continue at the ISKCON of Houston Temple, which is the oldest of its kind in the city. The temple originally opened in 1969 in downtown Houston at 1111 Rosalie. It moved to its current location on West 34th Street in 1984. “We request everyone for their heartfelft prayers so that our deities, sri sri Radha Giridhari can come back to our temple soon, Kalasudha of Hare Krishna Temple told IAN.
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Golu or Kolu, enchanting Tradition lives on in Texas
By Kalyani Giri HOUSTON: Like audible fragrance, classical music drifts out the front door, pure and sweet. It’s Navarathri kolu open house at Sheila and M. K. Sriram’s Sugarland residence. Walk in, and you’re engulfed in the warmth of their welcome. Sheila leads you upstairs to a large family room where youthful voices are singing in praise of the Goddess Devi. Ensconced in a vestibule within the area is a sumptuously festive mini staircase draped in silk fabric and festooned with dolls in all kinds of shapes, sizes, and colors. Along with the kalasam, an auspicious pot topped with mango leaves and a coconut, the image of the goddess in one of her manifestations, and the entire pantheon of gods, there lurks the obligatory Chettiar doll, a portly and balding store-owner figurine peddling his wares, that graces many a home observing golu or kolu during this sacred festival. The enchanting tradition of kolu is indigenous to South India and is featured only during Navathri, a nine-day festival celebrating the Mother Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura. Today the practice is rampant in the diaspora with immigrant families treasuring and continuing age-old cultural customs for the sake of the younger generations. Friends and family are invited to view the kolu, to sing or demonstrate an art form, partake of the prasadam (an edible offering first made to the deity), and to linger and enjoy the hospitality of the hosts over a vegetarian meal. Kolu’s origins are unclear; the display of dolls is not mentioned in the Hindu scriptures. But the sheer joy, pride, and creativity that goes into keeping the kolu makes it nothing short of a labor of love. The dolls are often collected over the years, brought from India, purchased on-
all had a life of its own.” The Sriram family began their first kolu when their older daughter was fours years old. They were living in an apartment in Abu Dhabi at the time and started it very modestly, with three steps made of cardboard boxes, and Barbie dolls and stuffed animals. Twenty-five years later, and they have graduated from Barbie to a more formal display. “What we love most about Navarathri is that this is the season of friendship and a joyous occasion. It fills our hearts with immense happiness to have everybody over. We surely hope our children will continue with this tradition,” added Sheila as she herded guests to the supper buffet. Aside from her community activism, kolu has won Dr. Padmini Nathan wide renown in the local community. “We celebrated with kolu from my childhood. From the early eighties, I started this practice in my home with dolls that have been in the family for Sheila Sriram continuing the Kolu tradition. generations,” said Dr. Nathan. “First I Photo: Kalyani Giri did the traditional exhibit with steps, then line, or specially commissioned for themed changed to a museum type theme based kolus; many households have antique dolls exhibit, a project one year in the making. I that were handed down through the genera- pick a theme from the Hindu scriptures and tions. And every one of those figurines has have the dolls made to order in India,” she a story. added. “Some of our dolls like the Chettiar Each doll, fashioned out of papier mache, with his utensils and vegetable store, and is custom made to specifications of dimenDamyanthi sitting on a ledge are prob- sion, posture, and facial expression. She ably 70 years old,” confided Sheila Sriram. toils laboriously over details, drawing and “Both of us come from families where the designing the layout. Dr. Nathan’s imaginakolu has been very much part of Navarathri. tion knows no bounds and her entire living Our parents, uncles and aunts used to enjoy and dining area at her Bellaire home are setting up the steps, then the dolls and deco- transformed into a veritable theme park of rating them. The best part was the villages elaborate storytelling through art. She has with a temple, pond, houses and people that exhibited the story of Karnan, the Battle of
Kurukshetra, Sthree (depicting the lives of women in the ilk of Seetha and Draupadi), Silapathikaram, Gajendra Moksham, to name a few. “I feel that this type of exhibit has been a great learning experience in the research process and also makes the visit for my guests meaningful and memorable. It’s a great outlet for my creative skills,” said Dr. Nathan whose kolus have been showcased at the Janmashtami event at the George R. Brown Convention Center and at the Hare Krishna Temple for the perusal of the general public. On a recent afternoon, the Stafford home of Luckmi and Shivi Pawa seemed infused with the blessings evoked by the Mahishasura Marthini Stotram that played discreetly in the background as a bustle of women and children stopped by to view the kolu. The display, a joint effort in creativity by Luckmi and her young daughter Ria, was set up in an ante-room off the foyer. Ria, beautifully dressed in a traditional silk blouse and skirt, her long braid embellished with an ornate piece of jewelry, echoed the elegance of her mother as she graciously welcomed guests and invited them to dinner. As the ladies were leaving the house, Luckmi of offered them haldi (turmeric), kumkum (vermillion powder), and a gift. “This is a tradition from my childhood. I can remember my mother keeping it for years and years. It is also for Ria that I continue as her cultural identity is already diluted being second generation Indian American. Add to that, the fact that Shivi and I are both from different parts of India. There really isn’t much that we share by way of cultural festivals, traditions, so, in a nut-shell, I do it for some semblance of cultural identity being passed on,” confided Luckmi.
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Free Flu Shots from Friends Helping Friends By Jawahar Malhotra HOUSTON: With the seasons changing and flu season is just around the corner, experts recommend that the very young and the very old get their flu shots to help strengthen their immune systems. If you are among the many who suffer each year, then you can appreciate this ounce of caution. But flu shots can be expensive, running around $30 each at many area pharmacies and many who would benefit from them cannot afford the cost. Realizing this, the local charity, Friends Helping Friends, organized a drive to give away free flu shots at the House of Amos on Boone Road in Alief this past Sunday morning. In a little over Dispensing free flu shots this past Suntwo hours, FHF volunteers, led by President day at the House of Amos were, (from Panna Bhatia, gave out 100 shots to a long left), Dr. Meena Thakkar; Neera Bhutani; line of people that stretched out through the Mauli Shah; Friends Helping Friends President Panna Bhatia; Manik Husain; front door. The House of Amos, a 501 (C) (3) non- HOA volunteers Jill Kaeser and Mary profit corporation, was founded by local Ann Gardner. Alief businessman Mike Kutka in 1996 to help those with the basics of life. The name refers to the 8th century BC prophet Amos who preached for better treatment of the needy. HOA is located in a strip retail From left: HOA Director Shiela Webb, Mike Gardner and Panna Bhacenter and pro- tia besides their banner on Boone Road. Photos: Jawahar Malhotra
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vides immunizations, a food fair, literacy services, funding services and serves as a local emergency food bank. Friends Helping Friends was started in 2002 to help a community member with a medical procedure. It has grown to provide pro bono medical services and medications, limited medical financial aid, guidance with government medical assistance programs and funeral and burial assistance. House of Amos is located at 8030 Boone Rd, Houston, TX 77072; 281-495-9061 (web: www.houseofamos.org). Friends Helping Friends can be reached at P. O. Box 890092, Houston, TX 77289-0029; 281-488-0124 (web: www.fhf2001.org)
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His Sitar Music is the Calm Before the Pomp
Srinivas Koumounduri playing at the recent IACF Gala. Photo: Jawahar Malhotra
By Jawahar Malhotra HOUSTON: At the recent Indo American Charity Foundation Gala on October 1, as the guests slowly sauntered in and proceeded to their tables, the huge hall of the New Stafford Civic Center was filled with the lilting notes that the solo artist onstage sitting cross-legged on a Indian rug played on his sitar. Deep in concentration, Srinivas Koumounduri played on, each note resonating a calmness that engulfed the hall, even as last-minute preparations were being made. The multi-stringed instrument that he mastered as a child in Hyderabad, India under the tutelage of his father Koumounduri Venkatachary and his older brother Koumounduri Narsimachary, rested diagonally across his frame as he played a raga. Srinivas later trained under C. S. Ramalingam and finally Atmaram and received a diploma in music in 1982. He has performed in Europe and India, has lived in the Bayou City for the past 22 years and works for the University of Texas at the Texas Medical Center. But, as an accomplished virtuoso of the sitar, Srinivas has appeared on stage, TV and radio and has released his first CD, Eastern Fantasia last year. He has founded the Saraswati School of Music to pass along his considerable talent to others and is highly sought out for many events in the city, such as the IACF Gala where he alone, with his sitar, was able to calm the crowd.
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Houston Indian Youth Enjoys Life Changing Experience this Summer
By Cimron Kashyap I had the most life–changing experience this summer. My name is Cimron Kashyap. I am 14 years old. This summer, I went from Houston to New Delhi, India. I was fortunate enough to teach at Nai Disha, a school for underprivileged children from July 26 to August 26, 2010. I taught them the English and Hindi alphabets. I taught them how to pronounce the letters. My mathematics lesson plan included comparing, classifying, and counting numbers. I told the children Aesop’s fables because those stories taught them some basic lessons of life. I would act the story out and ask them questions at the end to make sure they had been listening to me. I also taught the children how to draw the shapes. I would teach them this by asking the children to look around the room and see if anything resembled the shape I was teaching them about. I taught them English poems. The kids were very dedicated to their education. They wouldn’t mind walking through pouring rain to go to school. They had to sit on the ground instead of chairs. They didn’t have any desks to put their books on. Every morning when I would enter the classroom, all the kids would stand up and in unison greet me with: “Good morning, didi.” They gave me a lot of respect every single day. They loved to answer the questions that I asked them. They had the inner desire to learn. Teaching these children was a very fulfilling experience for
Cimron teaching alphabetes to children at Nai Disha, a school in New Delhi for underprevileged children
me. Knowing that I have encouraged these young minds to question, think, imagine, create, and to evolve as productive and responsible citizens made me feel that I had the capability of making a difference in each and every one of these children’s lives. I enjoyed teaching these children and they in turn taught me to appreciate my teachers and my education much more. Nai Disha is a registered non profit NGO with 250 children from economically weaker sections of the society. Children are provided free books, stationary, two sets of summer and winter uniforms, and a daily wholesome meal. Cimron is a 9th grade student at St. Thomas Episcopal School and can be reached via email at cicikash@ gmail.com
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United Way for Our Charities The United Way agency is a great social invention that allows individuals and corporations to use a single vehicle to fund a variety of charitable organizations. The United Way provides a regulatory environment that helps ensure that the public funds are used in an ethical and transparent way. Many individuals can contribute small amounts to make a major impact. Is it possible to create a similar agency for our desi charities? Right now, many of our charitable organizations raise funds by holding galas that attract the well-to-do. If a creditable desi United Way agency is created, it may be possible for individuals to donate to the charity of their choice in a convenient manner. This would be a beneficial situation as well for the charity organizations. The charities will have expanded their donor network and gained credibility in the public eye. It is a win-win situation for everyone concerned. Pramod Kulkarni
Death by Red Tape This is not a news item that is likely to make the government or its vast machinery sit up and take note. After all, in all ‘fairness’, we have a humongous machinery in the name of government that does not sit up and take note of anything for that matter, does it? This is about the unknown and unsung Beebi Lumanda who died of heart attack at Oman airport, on her way to the hospital. According to this news clip in The Times of India (October 11, 2010), the 40-year-old housemaid was stranded at the Muscat airport. She was travelling from Muscat to Chennai via Doha. While transiting in Doha, she lost her passport. She was, therefore, deported back to Muscat. Unfortunately, Beebi Lumanda had already cancelled her Oman residence visa and hence was not allowed to re-enter Muscat. According to Muscat officials, as per the report, they had informed the Indian Embassy last Monday. However, despite repeated assurances, nobody from the Indian embassy showed up to help the stranded lady. Five days of stress and uncertainty at the Muscat terminal was too much for the poor woman, who died of a heart stroke. Prima facie, we have no reason to doubt the veracity of the report. After all, we have come to expect no better of our government officials. We do know that if our embassies worked even with any semblance of care and concern for the average citizen whom they are expected to serve, Beebi Lumanda should have been alive today. But like most of our government controlled systems, our embassies and foreign offices work only for the high and mighty, not for the Beebi Lumandas of the country. TOI
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The Art of Forgetting By pritish nandy The last week proved, yet again, how short our memory is. Everything heals, everything changes with time. Even the biggest traumas are wiped out by new events and, sometimes, even new traumas. So much so that what obsessed us just a couple of years or months or even weeks back is so suddenly erased from our consciousness that it looks like the entire nation has struck the delete button at the same time. Sometimes it’s sad. But often it’s great. It shows us that India has really taken yoga to heart and can leave behind its anger, outrage, rancour and move on. I guess that’s why we are such a great nation. Let’s look at the CWG. The hatred against the British that fuelled our freedom struggle has long vanished. Today we celebrate the Games as friends. If we do well and win many medals, we will see that as a befitting reply to history. We have forgotten the Black Hole tragedy, the Jalianwala Bagh massacre. Frankly, I can’t even remember the rest. I would much rather remember the trains, the post offices, the schools and colleges, the gothic churches, the art deco architecture that the British left behind, and their biggest contribution, the English language that has opened us up so quickly to the modern world, to science and technology, the global economy. We never struggled like the Chinese to integrate with others. English provided us the perfect tool, even though Mulayam Singh may not agree. But that took sixty years. Now look at the Ayodhya verdict. Even before it was announced, everyone knew that whatever it would be, the new India had moved on, beyond Ayodhya. The elaborate security was only to ensure that no political party would misuse the verdict to stoke mischief. In less than two decades, both Hindus and Muslims have set aside the contentious issue that killed thousands of men, women and children in a maelstrom of violence they had nothing to do with. What began as a political tamasha, the rath yatra, masquerading as an issue of national pride soon snowballed into a terrible
What obsessed us just a couple of years or months or even weeks back is so suddenly erased from our con consciousness that it looks like the entire nation has struck the delete button at the same time. Sometimes it’s sad. But often it’s great. human tragedy. Despite all efforts of the BJP to keep it alive, the debate is now dead. Everyone, particularly the young, yearn for peace and pragati today. But why talk of centuries and decades? I bet once the Games are over, all this hysteria over the most corrupt and shameful event in recent history, will be promptly forgotten. If Kalmadi braves out the next few days and survives, there’s no reason to believe he will ever get the boot. A rap on the knuckles, perhaps. The boos he got during the opening ceremony will be seen as adequate punishment for his huge heist. If Ramalinga Raju can get away so easily, why would we make such an effort to remember Kalmadi’s indiscretions? Even RR Patil’s back as Maharashtra’s Home Minister despite 26/11. Only Vilasrao remains to be restored as CM but he’s in no hurry. He has a comfortable berth in the Centre to while away his time. That our collective memory’s getting shorter and shorter is best exemplified by the fact that the Pakistani contingent at the Games got the biggest ovation after the Indians. It must have amazed the whole world that while we speak so bitterly against Pakistan on every international platform for destabilising Kashmir and exporting terrorism to India we still love their sportspeople so much, their actors, their singers, even their Page 3 people, two of whom got a
rousing welcome last weekend when they entered Bigg Boss. One, a cross dresser who runs a chat show on Pakistani TV. The other, a kiss and tell artiste who has embarrassed her former lover, cricketer Mohammad Asif by alleging she knew all about his dirty match fixing ways even as she cuddled with him under the blanket. Pakistani pop star Ali Zafar not only had a hit in Tere bin Laden but has also been signed on by Yashraj to make more films in a city where the Sena and MNS rule the roads. Adnan Sami happily lives here, in a flat with two squabbling wives. But the most telling example is the box office. Kismet ruled it for 30 years. Then came Sholay in 1975. DDLJ could challenge it only after 20 years. In 5 years Gadar took it on. Singh is Kingg was just about to stake its claim when Ghajini came 2 months later, knocked it off its perch. Then came Three Idiots a year later to break all records. Only to have Dabangg challenge it 8 months later. And now, in 3 weeks, Rajnikanth has walked off with it all. Proves how ephemeral all success is too. Are you now surprised why Mein Kampf outsells My Experiments with Truth in the land of the Mahatma or why a nation that once hated Azhar Azharuddin should vote him back as a MP? What about the four wrestlers and the two athletes who failed the CWG dope test last month? Aren’t they all back in our contingent? TOI
Mahatma’s Influence
Leading the 1000 lights Peace march were a Gujarati Muslim gentleman, Suresh Shah and his Christian American wife Karen dressed as Gandhi ji and Kasturba ji respectively. The couple truly epitomize Gandhi ji’s philosophy of universality and religious equality. Suresh, a Mechanical Engineering teacher and his home maker wife Karen had adopted and raised two African children beside their own. What a great influence Gandhi ji had on the lives of ordinary people living in continents apart. No wonder, Gandhi ji was indeed a Mahatma, the Great Soul. Krishna Vavilala
IndoAmerican News Founder: dr. K.L. Sindwani editor: Pramod KuLKarni LK BuSineSS manager: Jawahar maLhotra marKeting manager: KriShna giri Community rePorter: KaLyani L giri Community editor: manaSi goKhaLe adminiStrative manager: vanShiKa K viPin Ka marKeting & Food rePorter: JaCoB david ProduCtion manager: huSSain mandviwaLa correspondents chicago: nand Kapoor ®All rights reserved. No material herein or portions thereof may be published without the written consent of the publisher. The deadline for advertising and articles is 5 pm on Monday of each week. Please include self-addressed, stamped envelope for return of all unsolicited material. Published at 7457 Harwin Drive, Suite 262, Houston, Texas 77036. Tel: 713-789-NEWS or 6397 Fax: 713-789-6399, email: indoamericannews@yahoo.com, website: indoamerican-news.com
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What Every Woman Should Know About Breast Cancer By Sewa S. Legha, MD Breast cancer is a common cancer among American and European women with a lifetime risk of 1 in 8 developing this disease. It is the most common type of cancers in women and the diagnosis of breast cancer will be conveyed to an estimated 207,000 US women in 2010. Breast cancer is less common among Asians but the incidence is rising rapidly as their economic conditions improve. For example in India, breast cancer was, until recently, second in frequency (cervix cancer was number-1) but it has now become the most common cancer among women, surpassing Cervix cancer. An estimated 120 breast cancer cases per 100,000 population are diagnosed among the white population in USA, compared to 30 cases per 100,000 in India. Although the exact numbers are uncertain, Asian women who have migrated to the US experience higher rates of breast cancer than women in their home countries (currently estimated at 50-60 cases per 100,000 population). Detection and Diagnosis: Breast cancer commonly affects middle-aged women, typically diagnosed at an average age of 61 years among Caucasians. It tends to be diagnosed at an earlier age among the Indian women where the typical age is 50 years at diagnosis. Although it is extremely rare before the age of 20, it is not uncommon in women in their 30’s and 40’s. The diagnosis of breast cancer should be suspected if there is a painless lump/growth in the breast. If women are carefully watching for any lump or thickening in their breast, an examination by a physician is advised. The diagnosis is typically verified with an x-ray examination (called mammography) and confirmed by means of a biopsy of the growth, once it has been localized by means of an x-ray or confirmed by a manual examination by a physician. When detected early, breast cancer has an excellent prognosis, with cure rated of 70% to 80%. When ignored and diagnosed late (stage III) the survival is compromised substantially, yet most women even with late diagnosis can have long lives. The prognosis and cure rates are best (>90%) when breast cancer is detected on screening mammography, which is recommended for all
women between the ages of 40 to70 years. In addition women are advised to do once monthly breast self- examination (BSE) for any lumps or obvious changes in the appearance or consistency of their breast. Despite the heightened awareness and media campaigns for careful monitoring of their Breast, breast cancer is often diagnosed late among Indian women who may be hesitant to bring the situation to the attention of their family or their doctors. Unfortunately date diagnosis means more advance stage of disease which then requires more extensive surgery and carries a high risk of metastases (spread into the body) which can significantly lower the odds of survivorship. Treatment options: Once the diagnosis of breast cancer has been confirmed with a biopsy, patient will
be advised further tests to determine the stage (extent) of tumor in the breast and a determination if the tumor has spread to the lymph nodes in the axilla (armpits) and to any other organs of the body. For patients with early stages of breast cancer (stage I and II) it is often possible to remove the tumor with limited surgery (called lumpectomy) and preserve the breast. Bigger tumors often require removal of the whole breast (called mastectomy), Besides surgery, most patients require radiotherapy to the remaining breast tissue for patients who have undergone lumpectomy or radiotherapy to the chest well and regional lymph nodes for patient who have undergone mastectomy for larger tumors. For patients who are at high risk for tumor spread into the body organs, adjuvant treatment with chemotherapy or hormonal therapy is commonly advised. Chemotherapy when used is typically given iv and is given intermittently for 3-4 months Hormonal therapy is often given later and it is continued for 5 years. Other Relevant Issues: Women aren’t the only ones: men get breast
caner too. However it is rare in men, affecting 1 in 100 men. Therefore any lump under the nipple should be checked and examined by a physician. Because of the lack of awareness, the diagnosis of breast cancer in men is made late. This means a less favorable survival outlook for men with breast cancer compared to women. The treatment approach to breast cancer in men is quite similar to that used in women. Women (and men) who are diagnosed and treated for primary breast cancer require follow up with their oncologist for many years (10+years) in order to get check ups for relapse or metastases which can develop many years after the original tumor removal and treatment of their primary breast cancer. Such cases (called metastatic cancer or Stage IV cancer) can be controlled with Chemotherapy, Hormonal therapy and targeted in biologic therapies, which can often control metastatic cancer for several years. All women should practice prevention against breast cancer. This involves avoiding alcohol, tobacco and prolonged use of hormones (after menopause). Regular exercise, avoiding overweight with healthy (low fat) diet containing ample portions of fresh vegetables and fruits are the best precautions which should be practiced by all women and men in order to minimize the risk of developing any cancer. Breast Cancer does have a hereditary element and runs in families in about 10% of the cases. This means a more careful monitoring and screening among the sisters and the daughters of women affected by breast cancer. As an Indian American commu¬nity organization, the Indian American Cancer Network (IACAN) is Committed to provide prop¬er health education and create aware¬ness about early cancer diagnosis by promoting cancer screening and seeking prompt treatment. We hope to accomplish this goal by creating increased awareness through media coverage and by holding community wide educational seminars, the next one scheduled to take place on October 23, 2010. For more information visit www. iacannetwork.org or call 713-3703489
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Campaign for Absentee Voting Facility for Non Resident Indians is Underway “Right to Vote” is the fundamental right of every citizen .It is the inherent and sovereign right and duty of every citizen wherever he/she is residing to choose his/her representatives to serve the public. In a changing world, political participation is increasingly delinked from territorial location. The current Bill to amend Section 20 (8) of the Representation of the People Act, 1950 has been introduced to and passed by Rajya Sabha on August 31st 2010 stipulating that Non Resident Indians (NRIs) should be physically present in India to vote. But the Bill does not provide provision for Absentee Voting or any other alternative form of polling facility for NRIs. Statistically, as well as logistically it is impossible for millions of eligible NRIs to travel from overseas to India within the short span of election period. This provision negates the given voting right to NRIs. The only feasible option is ‘Absentee Voting Facility’, which facilitates NRIs to vote from their respective residing places (not to be physically present) that could include Postal Ballot OR Proxy Voting OR Internet Voting OR combination of internet and Postal (download ballot and send it by post with necessary paper work). At present, the members of armed forces and paramilitary forces have been granted proxy voting, whereas forces deployed outside the states and
the officials deployed in the foreign missions have been given postal ballot voting. The bill will be introduced to Lok Sabha during the upcoming Winter Session of Parliament from Nov 9th –
Dec 13th. In order to provide NRIs to exercise franchise through Absentee Voting Facility, we request all NRI’s to visit www.NRIVotingRights.info and sign online petition and take part in the campaign.
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Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti Celebrated on Hawaii Isle
By Dr. Raj Kumar Gandhi International Institute for Peace commemorated their 5th annual event to honor the divine soul of one of the world’s greatest leader Mahatma Gandhi on October 2 in Waikiki- Honolulu, Hawaii. Over 400 hundred people attended the birthday celebration of Mahatma Gandhi and International Day of Nonviolence. The public and tourists enjoyed the multicultural dances, spiritual chanting, yoga demonstration and speeches from interfaith and elected government leaders including democratic gubernatorial candidate Dr. Neil Abercombie and Lt. Gubernatorial candidate Honorable Brian Schatz, Waikiki Senator Honorable Brickwood Galuteria and City and County Council member Honorable Rod Tam. Hawaii’s Governor Honorable Ms. Linda Lingle’s
proclamation was read by organizer and President of the Institute Dr. Raj Kumar and Hawaii’s senator Honorable Daniel K. Akaka’s message was read by Dr. Terry Shintani. Everyone spoke from the heart about Gandhi’s sacrifices for humanity and his legacy as representatives of organizations that practice peace. It was particularly gratifying to view the children’s participation and learn of the actions of Intercultural Understanding Center at Bringham Young University of Hawaii. The students from different Universities also participated in the event. Free food was donated by ISKCON temple for the public and free psychic reading, Reiki and Chinese Lion Dance were the great attraction for public in the event. For further details, please visit: www.gandhianpeace.com
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Indo American News • Friday, October 15 , 2010
Houston Hindu Community Welcomes Ayodhya Verdict
By Yatindra Bhatnagar HOUSTON: Hindu community in the greater Houston area has generally, welcomed the Allahabad High Court’s decision on the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute and have expressed the hope that with the verdict both the communities will move forward to usher a peaceful and harmonious future for India. While admitting that the High Court’s verdict is not totally in favor of Shri Ram temple, Hindu community leaders opined that the fact the majority decision has given the major share to Hindu groups is, possibly, the best decision under the circumstances. The dispute has been hanging fire for the last six decades and it’s time that the people move forward, than backward, they said. A few did express the opinion that the overwhelming evidence supported Hindus’ claim and even the Muslim Judge had no hesitation to admit that Babri Masjid was constructed on the ruins of a Hindu temple, if not by demolishing the temple. However a majority of community leaders and various professionals interviewed for this report welcomed the verdict and look forward to the construction of a grand Shri Ram temple. They hoped that the Supreme Court would not take a long time to dispose of the two appeals and essentially endorse the High Court verdict. The leaders have also expressed their satisfaction at the peaceful and normal situation in India following the verdict. It was a good sign of the
people’s maturity and good judgment to not indulge in violent protests as the verdict is, kind of, a win-win situation. They hoped both the sides would accept it and move on.
However, a few have said the High Court should have given complete possession to Hindus in the light of overwhelming archaeological findings and utmost devotion and faith of hundreds of millions of Hindus in the matter since times immemorial. While some expressed the hope that the Muslim group would, on their own, accept the verdict in good faith and show their regard to the majority
community by withdrawing their appeal against the judgment and even offer the entire disputed land to build a magnificent Shri Ram temple. One went the other way to sound a note of warning that if a mosque is allowed to be built side by side of Shri Ram temple it might be a fresh cause of deep friction between the two communities and violence would be inevitable. By and large, the reaction was to welcome, and hope for the best in the Supreme Court. Jugal Malani, President of Houston’s very active India House, and a respected leader of the community, welcomed the verdict and said it is generally, good for the country. He said it would, hopefully, end the conflict on the issue once and for all. Noted community leader and philanthropist Ramesh Bhutada said it’s a great verdict and should not be viewed as a win or lose issue. The whole of India has won. He sincerely hoped that this would be a start of genuine reconciliation between Hindus and Muslims that would lead to harmony and the people should look forward to making progress, and not look backward. He suggested that Hindus and Muslims should help each other in
building a grand Shri Ram temple at the site and a beautiful mosque a few miles away to set an example of harmonious relations between the two communities. Similar sentiments were expressed by Dr. Arun Verma, the Chairman of Shri Sita Ram Foundation, USA, who welcomed the verdict as the best option for communal harmony. He said the wise judges have taken the overall picture and the possible impact on the nation on an issue that is very emotional. One of Houston’s top Cardiologist, Dr. Randeep Suneja opined that it’s a very fair verdict considering the fact that the archaeological remains proved that the site definitely belonged to a Hindu temple. He said he would like to see a magnificent Shri Ram temple at the site and a beautiful mosque nearby to show to the entire world the glorious tradition of peace and harmony in the country in the best interest of a united and strong India. Kirit N. Mehta, a Psychotherapist and a Relationship Counselor, said the verdict has ended serious anxiety and apprehension. He was happy to know that peace and harmony prevailed after the verdict that is good in the wider interest of the country. However, he said, personally, he would have preferred the whole site for Hindus who were subjected to centuries of violence and destruction of their religious places. A former Indian Foreign Service official, Brahm Chopra, echoed the
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same sentiments and asserted that the whole site belonged to Hindus and was the birthplace of Shri Ram. Ayodhya, he said, is the undisputed birthplace of Shri Ram and to divide that land would be dangerous. A mosque by the side of the temple would not usher peace but create more bitterness and conflict on a daily basis. He hoped the Supreme Court reverses the High Court judgment and awards the whole site to Hindus. Beth Kulkarni, a Euro-Hindu based in Houston, stated: “I consider that portions of the statement made by Mohan Bhagwat, are close to my own thoughts on the matter that it should not be seen by the society as a victory to any group or defeat to the other. This is an excellent opportunity to rise above all the past experiences in the spirit of our tolerant and inclusive national culture and strive to organize our diverse, multi-lingual and multireligious society into a united, disciplined and conflict-free one inspired by a grand and sacred vision.” “Whether we live in India or elsewhere, Hindus should be true to the best in their traditions and provide an example that we can work together in harmony with others of different backgrounds, showing respect to all, while remaining true to our traditions and beliefs.” Some Hindus activists were rather reluctant to comment on the verdict saying that they have not read the whole decision. Some did not want to commit and did not respond till the time of going to the press.
INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 15 , 2010• ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM
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Indo American News • Friday, October 15 , 2010
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online edition: www.indoamerican-news.com
Asian Design Professionals Celebrate their Achievements at 25th Gala
By Jawahar Malhotra HOUSTON: They were among the first wave of professionals to come to the New World, across the “black waters” during the early 40s and 50s into the Golden Age of Engineering that was transforming this country, just as engineering feats are transforming the very country they left behind. Many went into engineering and construction companies, others into research and a few diehards joined the faculty of some universities, all accepting the hard row up the ladder. So, it was very a sense of pride that one could look across the exhibition hall of the J. W. Marriott Hotel on Westheimer on Thursday, September 30 and look at the number of Asian American Engineers and Architects who have struck it out in Space City and made contributions to the local built environment. It was particularly heartening to see that the AAEA organization was celebrating their 25th anniversary, even in the midst of a severe economic downturn that has made this year a challenging one for the projects that sustain them. The Gala was organized by Chair Dr. Karun Sreerama, President of ESPA Corp, a civil engineering company along with Ramesh Gunda, President of AAEA and President of Gunda Corporation, another civil engineering firm. They carried along the traditions fostered by past AAEA presidents Kathlie Bulloch, Terry Chang, Michael Ho and C. C. Lee to name a few over the past 25 years. Next year’s president will be David Sadeghpour. The organization was formed by Tom Liu in 1986, starting off as the Chinese American Engineers and Architects until the name was changed and enrollment was opened in 1996. The group now also contains a few other minorities, like Sagedhpour who is Iranian. As in past years, four deserving Asian American students enrolled in universities across
Texas were selected to receive $1,000 scholarships for excelling scholastically and in leadership and extracurricular activities despite many challenges. These were Trinh Le attending the University of Houston; Quan Nguyen at the University of Texas in Austin; Evelyn Shyu also at the University of Texas in Austin and Ying “Bridget” Wang at Texas Tech University. The proceeds of the Gala went towards funding the scholarships which were awarded by chairs Frank Liu and Paul Kwan. This year’s ceremonies were quick to the cut and easy on pomp. Channel 13 TV newscaster Miya Shay was the emcee and she made opening remarks and after the Pledge of Allegiance and invocation led by Houston City Councilman Al Hoang, introduced Gunda. Gunda spoke of the work that local A/E firms were doing to help build the future. “There are lots of Asian American design professionals and many are now looking at how to give back to our communities,” he said, adding that he looked forward to the Venue Houston initiative to try to bring the Olympic Games to Houston. Gunda introduced the guest of honor, Mayor
At the J. W. Marriott Hotel on Westheimer on Thursday, September 30 the Board of Directors of the Asian American Engineers and Architects pose with scholarship winners and Houston Mayor Annise Parker and County Judge Ed Emmett.
Annise Parker who said she wanted to make sure that the next generation of A/E was brought
to the front. She encouraged people to vote for Proposition 1 on the November ballot which would set a drainage fee for all businesses and residences. The fee will be used to fund storm and drainage projects throughout the city and help prevent flooding. Sreerama introduced County Commissioner’s Court Judge Ed Emmett, “who has at least 19 or 20 awards” and spoke of his son’s longterm studies and work in India, which Emmett has visited often, as a result. County Sheriff Adrian Garcia and HCC Trustee Neeta Sane were also in attendance. Emmett noted that the future presented critical issues and that we could only become greater by completing many projects. “If we cannot meet goals we will not live upto our potential,” he noted. “We have to address these grave problems now or we will look back in sorrow in 25/30 years that we missed the opportunity. This is why it was important for groups like the AAEA to exist.” The Asian American Engineers & Architects Association can be reached at www.aaeahouston.org.
INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 15 , 2010 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM
ONLINE EDITION: www.indoamerican-news.com
Indo American News • Friday, October 15 , 2010
INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 15 , 2010• ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM
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Indo American News • Friday, October 15 , 2010
ONLINE EDITION: www.indoamerican-news.com
INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, OCTOBER 15 , 2010 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM