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Friday, August 26 2011 | Vol. 30, No. 34

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Kalam Explains Vision 2020 in Houston Former Indian President Abdul Kalam being welcomed by India House President Jugal Malani and his wife Raj during his visit to the city last weekend.

P5 A view of some of the devotees who thronged the Hare Krishna Temple in northwest Houston to participate in a maha abhishek open to the public for the first time. This was among the first Krishna Janmashtami celebrations in the greater Houston area.

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Sugar Land Madras Pavilion celebrating its 9th Anniversary

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Hare Krishna Dham Celebrates 25th Anniversary on Janmashtami ISKON, founded in 1966 in New York by the spiritual head Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada has its roots in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition; today the organization has a large following worldwide.

The HKDH has come a long way since its humble beginnings in the home of a devotee where a small congregation offered prayers to pictures of the gods. In 2003 construction on the main temple sitting on 24,000 sq. feet began.

Estimated completion of the project along with the installation of a 72 feet tall gold dome is 2012.

Already graciously ensconced in their new abode are tall, life-sized icons of Radha Nila-Madhava, the celestial flautist Sri Krishna and Radharani, sculpted in black and milky-white marble respectively.

Elaborately adorned, the gods are revered with aarti (lighted lamps with wicks dipped in ghee or camphor) seven times a day. On the anniversary event, the temple purchased 900 bunches of flowers to decorate the gods.

“Sri Krishna appreciates flowers more than jewels, it’s in our scriptures,” said Dr. Hansa Medley who moved to this city from Fiji 25 years ago and has been a devotee at the temple since. She confided that for the past two days preceding the event, the temple

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By Kalyani Giri HOUSTON: Nearly five thousand from this city’s diverse community gathered at the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKON) Hare Krishna Dham Houston (HKDH) to witness the epoch-making 25th Anniversary of the installation of the presiding deities on the occasion of Janmashtami. The celebration, observed with spiritual introspection and joyous revelry on August 21 marked the appearance of the god Krishna on earth about 5000 years ago. Devotees thronged the sprawling temple grounds, forming lengthy lines that snaked along the foot – path that linked the temple to the Gauranga Hall for a chance to witness the traditional Maha Abhishek and receive the blessings of Sri Krishna and his divine consort, Radharani. Rows of lawn chairs accommodated many who watched the rituals projected onto a huge screen outside the temple.

Also shown was a documentary on Vrindavan-modeled temples globally. Simultaneously a capacity audience gathered at the Gauranga Hall and was privy to an entertainment program of song and dance by local artistes. The temple served all attendees food prepared by the devotees of the temple.

“This is all Sri Krishna’s blessings,” said the temple president for the past 19 years, Shyam Sundar Prabhu. “The lord seems to have recognized the loving devotion of the devotees for 25 years and has made this His home too,” he added happily.

A young danseuse of the Nritya School of Dance, Houston performs a Bharatanatyam piece during the cultural segment of the Janmashtami celebration. Photo: Krishna Giri

had been like a beehive of activity with devotees working so hard to ensure that the celebration would be flawless.

“We have invited Sri Krishna to this temple and we take care of Him like a child,” added Dr. Medley who goes by the spiritual moniker of Guru Bhakti.

Chirag Bhatt, who has been actively associated with the temple since 1993 confided that witnessing the ceremonial bathing of the gods “brought tears to my eyes”.

“It was such a blessing. This wonderful atmosphere, the festivity, and strangers greeting you…it is magical,” added Bhatt. “There’s a divine force that inspires you to come here.”

The guest of honor for the evening was Kim Stoilis, Executive Director of the Bayou City Art Festival, who first visited the temple over 20 years ago. She was impressed by the changes made to the original structure.

“I’m really excited to see how much has been done. It is heartwarming to see the effort and devotion that has gone into its evolution,” said Stollis, who practices Buddhism.

Artistes performing for the evening included vocalists Neela Chakravarthy and Tygaraja, and a late night presentation by resident HKDH youth group Jiv Jago.

Dancers performing included students from the Nritya School of Dance and the Anjali Center for Performing Arts.

For more information visit www. iskonhouston.org.

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GOPIO Houston-Texas Chapter 16260 Kensington Dr. Sugar Land, TX 77479 Tel 713 256 5441 (Mahesh) 832 217 7045 (Chad) Gopiohouston@gmail.com

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AUGUST 31 FROM IRS FOR OVDI

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INFORMATIVE SEMINAR OFFERED BY A PANEL OF CPA AND TAX CONSULTANTS

AUGUST 26, 2011 MADRAS PAVILION SUGAR LAND 6:00 - 7:30 PM

If you own a property or bank account or any kind of assets in India, transfer the fund to India, you might be affected by the OVDI from IRS. If you have not disclosed the information on your tax returns, you are in violation of the IRS requirements There are broadly two categories of people who are in this situation, those who have sent money to help their extended families in India, supporting aging parents, finance children’s education and that of siblings and younger members of the extended family.

The second category included people who have worked, saved and are sending money in preparation of retirement.

This usually takes the form of property and allied investments.

The United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced on February 8, 2011 a special voluntary disclosure initiative (Ref IRS News Bulletin IRS-2011-14, Feb. 8, 2011) designed to bring offshore money back into the U.S. tax system and help people with undisclosed income from hidden offshore accounts get current with their taxes. The new voluntary disclosure initiative will be available through August 31, 2011.

The 2011 Offshore Voluntary Disclosure Initiative (OVDI) “provides a way for taxpayers with undeclared assets offshore to resolve their tax problems. The terms of the OVDI require taxpayers to pay the following penalties:

•A 20 percent accuracy-related penalty under section 6662 of the Internal Revenue Code (Code); •A failure-to-file penalty under section 6651 (a)(1) of the Code; •A failure-to-pay penalty under section 6651 (a)(2) of the Code; and •An offshore penalty equal to 25 percent of the highest aggregate balance in foreign bank accounts and entities or the value of foreign assets during the period covered by the voluntary disclosure in lieu of all other penalties that may apply, including FBAR and offshore-related information return penalties.

(Ref IRS News Bulletin IR-2011-14, Feb. 8, 2011).

Although there is lot of ambiguity and confusing information on the subject ruling, GOIPO Houston is arranging an informative seminar on the subject OVDI.

Please plan on attending the event.

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For the Visiting Kalam, everything is About connectivity

By JaWaHar MalHOTra HOUSTON: The organizers thought they had covered all the bases by asking the audience to submit their questions in writing in advance. Of the 25 questions that were collected, 5 minutes of the 69-minute event timeline were allocated to answering them before breaking to the private reception for the VIPs and those who paid $500 a couple to attend the sit-down dinner (catered by Kiran’s restaurant) with the former President of India, Dr. A. P. J Abdul Kalam.

But they didn’t know Kalam’s penchant for tossing out the script and heading directly to the audience who called out questions.

This has been Kalam’s appeal, especially with the young in India, where he was seen as being approachable and eccentric, from his long wavy hair parted in the middle to his novel ideas and speech delivery. Last Sunday night, as Kalam visited India House for a reception with a mostly Indian crowd, he was very much in style and took the questions, deftly dodging any attempts to stump him or debate points. The emcee, Rakesh Agrawal was left holding the cards.

Many questions were related to the anticorruption drive being spearheaded in India

by Anna Hazare (several protestors were lined up outside the entrance to the India House property holding signs and wearing “I am Anna” white Gandhi caps), and other questions about education. When some tried to add a monologue, Kalam admonished “Ask your question, sir!”

On corruption, he said India needed a law on how to implement fast punishments; on absentee voting, he said that the 25 million Indians abroad should first work hard for the countries they are in; on changing the old “pensioners” guard in politics, the soonto-be 80-year old Kalam said change would come with the rapid economic growth or 8 to 10% that would lead to his goal encapsulated in his India 2020 vision. Asked by this reporter why India had neglected its woefully inadequate infrastructure for the past 20 years and spent nearly 25% of the GDP on defense, Kalam said to forget the past and the future would be in the connectivity envisioned in his PURA (Providing Urban Amenities to Rural Areas) strategy, like in connecting all the waterways across the country for rural development.

Kalam was in Space City as a guest of Rice University and the University of Houston where he would deliver speeches the next day and attend private receptions with other leaders and at the Indian Consul General Sanjiv Arora’s home. He came to India House straight from the airport after arriving from San Francisco for this reception Indo American News (ISSN 887-5936) is published weekly every Friday (for a subscription of $30 per year) by IndoAmerican News Inc., 7457 Harwin Dr., Suite 262, Houston, TX 77036, tel: 713-789-6397, fax:713-789-6399, email: indoamericannews@yahoo.com.

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grandchild. Antel described the Foundation for Indian Studies program at UH which enables students to get a minor. Indian Consul General Sanjiv Arora quipped at Kalam’s “symbolic power with the Rain Gods for it rained just as I picked him up at the airport!”

Arora introduced Kalam as a scientist who also loves students, music and gardens; the founder of India’s long-range rocket program; and the architect of India 2020 dedicated to inspired nation building.

A much decorated scientist who is acknowledged as the founder of India’s space program, Kalam saluted the India House facility and the audience. “The heritage of the past and learning of the present will place you in good step,” he said, adding that “peace and prosperity have not yet become global but need to travel a long way.” He spoke on “What can I do?” and noted that

Clockwise from top: Kids meet with former Indian President Abdul Kalam during his visit to Houston this past Sunday and Monday; Kalam presenting books to India House President Jugal Malani for the facility’s library; Kalam with US Congressman Al Green and Indian Consul General Sanjiv Arora.

Photos: Bijay Dixit

and dinner arranged by the India House, the Indian Consulate and the two universities.

About 440 people had registered to attend, and about 90 stayed later for the sit down dinner with Kalam. Among the invited VIPs were State Senator Rodney Ellis, US Congressman Al Green, Harris County Judge Ed Emmett and his wife.

The hall was in hushed awe and reverence as Kalam entered 10 minutes late. The US national anthem was sung by Jennifer Barrera-Hernandez, who does community outreach at India House. Well-known community attorney and performer Uma Mantravadi sang the Indian national anthem.

India House President Jugal Malani greeted Kalam on his second visit to the facility.

“The first time you came this was just nothing but raw land,” he said. “Your name was instrumental in making India House a reality. Now, we are a model for other projects in the US and we offer after school programs, free medical clinic, senior citizen’s care

and even Bollywood dancing classes to the community.” Malani requested Kalam to stay involved by serving on India House’s Honorary Board of Advisors.

India House’s VP for Operations, Kul Bhushan Uppal described the facility as a means to unite cultures and build bridges.

“India House is a unique experience for our community and our neighborhood,” he said and introduced an 8-minute documentary on the facility narrated by and featuring IH Manager Yolanda as well as Henrandez and a few of the people who teach, volunteer and participate in educational programs, which are core elements for serving the South Gessner-West Bellfort community in which IH is based.

Rice President David Leebron welcomed Kalam as a Houstonian, “which you become after your third visit!” he quipped. University of Houston Provost and Sr. VP John Antel stood in for President Renu Khator who could not attend as she had just had her first

problems in most areas like the environment, corruption, morality and lack of compassion came from greed. “What can I take is not a good thing.”

Kalam counseled that we ask what kind of “giver” could we become: can I be an environment giver or a caregiver or a smile giver? If we could make our mother happy then we would spread that happiness across our family, our friends, others, society and the nation. His central theme was that we need sustainability, which can only come through realization of the connectivity between all actions and things, but not through the destruction of the environment.

Using a teleprompter, Kalam spoke rapidly about his vision and the PURA platform for development that he has proposed and won accolades. At times, he went so fast in outlining his vision that it was hard to keep up with the imagery. In conclusion, he recalled coming across a 3,000-year old inspiring message. “What would you like to be remembered for?” he asked. “When you are inspired by some great purpose, you will find yourself in a great world and become a greater person.”

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3rd Annual Indian Film Festival of Houston to be Held on sep 20-24 HOUSTON: The Indian Film Festival of Houston , Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization devoted to creating a greater appreciation of Indian cinema and culture by showcasing quality films that honor entertainment industry performers and film makers while promoting the diverse perspectives of the Indian Diaspora through an annual event.

Venue: Studio Movie Grill, 805 Town & Country Lane Tickets: Feature Films: $10, Shorts & Documentaries: $7 Program Details Sep 20: Opening Night - Cocktail Reception, Music & Dance at 6pm @ City Center Plaza, followed by a screening at the Studio Movie Grill at 8pm.

Sep 21: Screening of Feature Films, Shorts and Documentaries, followed

by QA with Directors.

Sep 22: Screening of Features, followed by QA with t h e Director.

Sep 23: Screening of Feature Films, followed by QA with the Director.

Sep 24: Awards Night ceremony and Reception featuring Indian culinary delights, music and dance in presence of Bollywood Actors, Directors and Industry leaders at the Grand Ball Room of Hotel Sorella, located in City Center, 800 Sorella For more information call 713-260-9630 or visit www.iffhinc.org Some of the Films which are scheduled to be shown at the Festival this year are I Am Kalam

The film celebrates the survival of the human spirit against overwhelming odds and highlights the need for underprivileged children’s education. It’s a film based on former Indian president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and is aimed at inspiring the poor to educate their children. Directed by Nila Madhab Panda Love, Wrinkle-free “Love, Wrinkle-free” is a slice of life romantic comedy about a dysfunctional family who live in the Calangute area of Goa. Set in the Roman Catholic world of Goa, “Love, Wr i n k l e - f r e e ” takes a lighthearted look at the obsession of today’s society on ‘looks’ and ‘youth’ - a universally recognizable theme that should find resonance across the world. Directed by Sandeep Mohan Delhi in a day When the money of an idealistic British traveler disappears in a nouveau-riche Delhi home, the staff of the house are blamed and given twenty-four hours to replace it or face the consequences. Directed by Prashant Nair A Decent Arrangement A Decent Arrangement is the story of Ashok Khosla, an Indian-American copywriter who journeys to India seeking an arranged marriage. After he encounters an American woman traveling through India and is set up with an Indian woman who

unexpectedly captivates him, Ashok must navigate the complexity of cultural traditions and the leanings of his own heart.

With subtle comedy and true-to-life drama, A Decent Arrangement shows us a side of India not commonly seen by western audiences and delivers an affecting story that resonates with those of us in search of our place in a changing world. Directed by Sarovar Banka In Search of God The transfor-

mative journey of an American woman who finds deeper meaning in her life after traveling to a mystical island in India where the inhabitants use artistic expression as a means for communing with God. Directed by Rupam Sarmah Fatakra Naveen left India to chase his dreams in America. Three years and a recession later, his wife and son finally join him. FATAKRA (“Firecracker”) tells the story of the sparks that fly on their first day together as dreams collide with reality. Directed by Soham Mehta The Magic Man Hoping to secure fame and fortune, a strug-

gling vaudeville magician turns to the dark arts. But the power unleashed could cost him the one thing he truly loves. ‘The Magic Man’ blends the artistry of black and white silent films of the 1920s with beautifully rendered visual effects to create a unique 3D experience. Directed by D.C.Ksundra.

It’s Cricket, No? In a world away from bright stadium lights, far away from multimillion dollar franchises, a unique brand of Indian cricket is making history in its own way. Follow the Indian National Blind Cricket Team as they chase their dream to be the greatest national side India has ever produced. To play for country, honor, passion. It’s cricket, no?

Directed by Gregory French.

The Eclipse of Taregna Mr. Pathak is worn out by life, and indifferent to NASA’s announcement that the best place to view the upcoming solar eclipse will be his town Taregna. However, his grandson Roshan’s curiosity for the celestial event of a lifetime is boundless. When Pathak finally notices that Roshan needs a father figure, he can no longer remain a bystander to life. Directed by Rakesh Chaudhary.

Khara Karodpati A call from Who wants to be a Millionaire) changes the ordinary life of a small farmer hailing from a Village in Maharashtra. It’s the story of Vishnu , his family, his village and their journey towards realizing the actual meaning of Winning. Directed by Piyush Thakur.

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Khators Become Grandparents

HOUSTON: Dr. Renu Khator, Chancellor and President of University of Houston and her husband Dr. Suresh Khator just became grandparents this past Thursday, August 18.

Their daughter Pooja Parks and her husband Derin Parks became proud parents to Kai (a Hawaiian name that means “Ocean”) Khator Parks in Sarasota, Florida.

Dr. Renu & Suresh Khator, the proud grandparents

Sonal Bhuchar Announces Candidacy for State Rep. HD 26 SUGAR LAND, TX: On Thursday, August 18, Sonal Bhuchar, Fort Bend ISD Board Trustee and small business owner of a private physical therapy company, officially declared her candidacy for the Republican nomination for State Representative District 26. The district is in the heart of Fort Bend and includes the cities of Sugar Land, Stafford, Richmond and Missouri City among others. Fort Bend ISD Position 2, which Trustee Bhuchar has represented since 2006, covers many of the same geographic areas as House District 26.

“I am running for state representative because I believe the strength of our Texas Economy is being put in jeopardy by out of touch politicians who have been in Austin too long. The two issues that I believe will define our future are cultivating an educated workforce and reigning in this out of control state spending. From 2001 to 2010, state debt grew from $13.4 billion to $37.8 billion, an increase of 281 percent. At the same time, we are seeing schools across the state fail our families. I will not stand by and watch our economy and the future of our children suffer because of the misguided policies being implemented in Austin.” said Bhuchar.

About Sonal Bhuchar: Sonal Bhuchar, a long time resident of Sugar Land, is a physical therapist in private practice in Sugar Land and was elected to the Fort Bend Board in 2006 in Position

Sonal Bhuchar

2. She is the immediate past president of the Board. Her commitment to the FBISD schools began almost 18 years ago when she served on various PTOs and PTAs and district level committees, including the advisory committees for GT Parents, School Health and Community Relations and Partnerships.

She has served as President and Secretary of the FBISD Board. She has also served on the District Accountability Task Force, Audit and Finance Committee, and the Discipline Management Committee. She led the formation of the Student Leadership and legislative advocacy programs in FBISD.

HGH AwardsAnnounced

HOUSTON: Hindus of Greater Houston (HGH) announced Akhil Chopra Memorial Service Award to Varun Mehta for his services in establishing “Hindu Student Association” in Texas and expanding it in other universities in the USA. HGH also announced the Lifetime Achievement Service Award to Suresh Patel for his initiative in establishing “Hindu Heritage Youth Camp” and his contributions in strengthening Hindu Unity and Selfless Service Award to Ramya Ravi for his services in establishing “Hindu Student Association” in Texas and expanding it in other universities in the USA. The awards will be presented on August 27 at the Janmashtami Celebration at Geroge Brown Convention Center by

His Holiness Gunagrahi das Goswami

His Holiness Gunagrahi das Goswami who is coming to attend the event from Argentina

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Meenakshi Temple Society Celebrates Janmashtami PEARLAND: You don’t need to be in India to enjoy Janmashtami celebrations – you can do that 10,000 miles away in Houston, Texas! In the Sri Meenakshi Temple in Pearland, Texas. Roopa Bala (MTS Director and Festivals Coordinator) and Sureka Prasad organized a special event to mark the occasion and make it fun for the young ones in Houston. After all for the kid in us, Janmashtami is all about celebrating the life of young Krishna, the lovable little boy, who stole butter, played pranks, and danced around with Gopis in the little town of Gokul.

For a few hours this morning, the people at the Meenakshi Temple were transported back to Gokul as a bunch of young Krishnas and Gopis lined up at the Main Temple to participate in a fancy dress competition of who would make for the best Krishna and Radha in Houston, Texas! Nitya Damo presented each kid to the audience. The judges – Vice Chairman Tupil Narasiman, Director Malar Narayanan, and VHS Teacher Jayu Vasudevan – had a difficult job in choosing the top three from almost 40 children vying for color and creativity. Dressed in their best dhotis, kurtas and some gorgeous jewelry carrying their flutes and pots of butter, the children paraded in front of a packed

house. This was followed by the children praying to Lord Krishna and also witnessing Lord Krishna being taken in a procession around the temple.

Of course, no South Indian Gokulashtami celebration is complete without the traditional temple festival game called Uriyadi.

Back home, Uriyadi was a fun game where a group of young kids tried to break a pot of butter and other treats hung high up in the air - the same game was played by the little kids here only in American style, a competition where each of the children tried to break a Pinata filled with candy and treats.

The 100 degree weather did not dampen the spirits of the young ones from taking multiple shots at breaking open the pinata . Finally the Little Radhas and Krishnas enjoyed dancing Dandya Raas - a dance done in groups with sticks in their hands –organized by Abhishek and Hansini. This was a first time event and was thoroughly enjoyed by all present – kids and parents alike.

The combination of spirituality and fun made this a special day for the children of Houston – just the way the day was meant to be celebrated no matter where one is and what one calls it – Gokulashtami, Sri Jayanthi , Krishna Jayanti or simply Janmashtami

Announcement Boys and girls dressed up as Krishna, Radha and Gopis for the fancy dress competition

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Innovative Heritage camp comes to a colorful close in manvel Play Actors

MANVEL, TX: The 8-week long Gopa Kuteeram Summer Camp 2011, conducted

by Global Organization for Divinity Houston, came to a colorful close last Saturday with performances and presentations by the participants, at Namadwaar Prayer House in Manvel, TX. The camp, that was held every Wednesday from June 29 to Aug 17, offered its 8 to 15-year-old participants an opportunity to immerse themselves in Indian culture and universal spirituality while at the same time learning creative skills through special workshops in photography, canvas painting, origami, creative writing, culinary arts and cricket.

A unique concept of Tri-Yoga – that included exercise yoga for the body, shravana yoga (yoga of listening) for the mind and Nama yoga (meditation by chanting the Divine Name) for the soul – was among the key activities of the camp. “Values for life” such as love, compassion, gratitude, faith, forgiveness, courage and humility were constantly emphasized throughout the program through several activities including listening to true stories of great Indian saints, maintaining a Gratitude Log, learning and singing an original “Song of Values” and practicing a play based on the life of Prahlada, the greatest devotee of the Lord. Numerous games, a treasure hunt and a field trip to Brazos Bend State Park were also part of the camp.

On Saturday, August 20, a final end-of-

camp celebration was held at Namadwaar where the children performed the Prahlada play and the Song of Values, and presented their research projects. Awards, certificates and trophies were given away to all the participants. 13-year-old Muktha Nair won the Gopa Kuteeram Spirit Honor Award that recognized the participant who had most completely absorbed and exhibited the values and spirit of the program. 12-yearold Maya Iyer won the Best Overall Performer award for her performance in the workshops. 8-year-old Varshitha Krishnan and 9-year-old Vishnu Sadagopan won the “Most Dedicated and Enthusiastic” award for their exuberance, interest, committed work throughout the camp. Awards were also given away for outstanding performance in each workshop and activity. These winners included Shilpa Sadagopan, Rini Maiti, Gopinath Kumar, Shroothi Ramesh, Tejna Dasari, Karun Salvady, Vyas Easwar, Rohit Raina and Nithya Dwaritha.

The participants also took home a portfolio of photographs clicked by them during the photography workshop and a book—The Power of Prayers—of their own short stories based on true incidents, written as part of the creative writing workshop.

Indo American News • Friday, Aug 26, 2011

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IAFC Honors Governor Nikki Haley with “Pride of India” Award

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DALLAS, TX: A gala Community Reception in honor of the Hon. South Carolina governor Nikki Randhawa Haley hosted by the Indian American Friendship Council (IAFC) in Dallas on August 19 was decidedly a spectacular and impressive show. This lively and fun packed welcome event was an eloquent testimony to the massive efforts harnessed

by IAFC to make it memorable.

The IAFC was lavishly applauded and warmly complemented for making immaculate seating arrangements with Indian American flags, stage arrangements with color theme and the entertainment show at the end.

The spacious hall of the famed Crowne Plaza in Addison was not with a vacant chair as the cliché goes “it was fully booked” with more than 450 people in attendance. Honorable Nikki enjoys the exclusive distinction of being the first Indian American female governor in the United States. She came to Dallas to specially thank the IAFC for its unstinting and copious support in her elections for the governorship of South Carolina State. A ceremonial guard of honor by the veterans was presented to her.

From the preliminary ritual of the inaugural lamp lighting ceremony, Color guard, taking oath of allegiance and singing of US and Indian national anthems to the phase of final dance performances

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everyone. One of these is brilliant articulation and powerful eloquence that really is spellbinding.

She spoke with unflinching confidence, vibrant jargon and with a flow that was like a torrent of powerful phrases and metaphors mesmerizing the audience. She is stout, handsome and in possession of a very elegant personality.

Her profile enumerated the litany of her unique accomplishments and awe-inspiring achievements that she has to her credit. During her political career that began in 2004, she has earned such plaudits and titles as “Friends of the Tax payers” in 2009 and “Tax payers’ hero” in 2005. Her motto and code of service have remained efficiency, accountability and transparency. In her speech she mentioned about the family traditions that she outlined as honesty truthfulness and steadfastness for the right causes.

In her brief yet elevating address she narrated the odd and hurdles, she had to surmount in reaching the pinnacle office in her state. Although she was born in America, yet she was the daughter of an Indian Sikh family that had migrated to USA as the first generation migrants from India. That was a kind of a spanner in the way to entering and succeeding in politics in the Unites States, all the more contesting for the highest office.

She resoundingly won although

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with highly professional dancers, the ambiance and atmosphere remained upbeat, joyous, cheerful, and thumping with laudatory applause.

The commendatory and welcome speeches were delivered by such dignitaries as Dr Krishna Reddy, the founder of the IAFC, Sanjiv Arora, the Consul General of India in Houston, Zulfi Sadeque, the acting Consul General of Canada in Dallas, Tom Leppert, former mayor of Dallas city and Prasad Thotakura, Coordinator of IAFC for the Texas State.

Piyush Patel, IAFC Vice President served as the Gala banquet Chair and Rao Kalvala, IAFC Secretary acted as Master of Ceremonies.

Prasad Thotakura, IAFC TX State Coordinator and Dr. Krishna Reddy, IAFC Founder along with other Board of Directors Taiyab Kundawala, Tarakumar Reddy, C.R. Rao, Niranjan Tripathy, Sat Gupta, Paul Pandian, Murali Vennam, Raj Asava, Ramki Chebrolu, Sushmi Kosuri and John Hamid presented “Pride of India” award to Governor Haley.

The speakers eulogized the caliber and integrity of the madam governor who was recently elected to the highest office in her state after a very tough tussle and challenge from other contenders. The governor is just 39 years old. At this young age she is an embodiment of rare qualities that dazzle

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IAFC’s Honors Nikki Haley continued from page

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the Indian-Americans population in South Carolina is less than one percent. Her father even now observes the Sikh religious and cultural traditions one of which is to wear the turban.

The IAFC was founded by Dr. Krishna Reddy of California in 1990. The IAFC’s headquarters are in Los Angeles but it maintains another main office in Washington DC. It also operates through various chapters set up throughout the United States. Besides it has to its credit a vast network to promote its agenda and mission.

Its influence and clout can be gauged from the number of pro Indian lobbies in both wings of American Congress. By dint of hard work, dedication and intensive public-relations of IAFC, the number of pro-India congressmen in the House of Representatives is 200 out of a total of 435 members.

Their supporters in the Senate are 30 out of a total of 100 members.

The dinner was fabulous with an array and variety of traditional Indian cuisine. Of all the items on the agenda including musical concert with Saxophone and Mrudangam,

the most alluring and fascinating were the dance items, the tableau and captivating entertainment program titled as “marvelous medley”

by Nruthya Shakti Dance Academy, “Behag Thillana” Kuchipudi dance by Natyanjali Kuchipudi Dance School, Kathak dance by Kathak Rhythms of Dance School and the special Bhangra Dance items immensely enthralled the audience.

Consul General of India Sanjiv Arora, Consul General of Canada Zulfi Sadeque and Mayor Protem Tom Abraham presented mementos and Sneak Chebrolu a memorable photo album contains Governor’s previous visits to Hon. Governor Nikki Haley.

The final custom of delivering the vote of thanks was undertaken

by Ms. Sushmita Kosuri, a young member of the executive board of the IAFC Dallas chapter. In her Vote of thanks, she thanked TV9, eKnazar, and FunAsiA media partners, Vindu Indian Cuisine for sumptuous dinner, SDiLogic, CP&Y, Dr. Sat Gupta and Alok International the main sponsors and several community organizations for the outstanding support.

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Indo American News • Friday, Aug 26, 2011

Indian Consulate Relocates to Own Building

HOUSTON: Government of India has purchased a building located at 4300 Scotland Street, Houston, Texas 77007 for its Consulate in Houston.

Consulate General of India, Houston was established in October 1995 and services 9 States of USA - Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma and Texas.

There has been substantial expansion of the Consulate’s volume of work and activities since its inception. This centrally located, modern and spacious property would further enhance the Consulate’s capacity to serve the Indian American community.

The Consulate will be shifting to its new premises from Thursday, August 25 to Monday, August 29.

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The Consulate will be closed to public during this short period. For any emergency consular service, the Consulate’s 24x7 Consular Helpline (832-283-1568) that has been functioning since December 2008, should be contacted.

The Consulate will resume normal consular services at its new premises from Tuesday, 30 August, 2011. The entrance to the Consular Section is at O’Reilly Street.

The Consulate’s telephone/fax numbers and e-mail addresses will remain the same.

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Indo American News • Friday, Aug 26, 2011

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Sony TV Launches Fifth Series of ‘KBC’ on Independence Day Sony Entertainment Television Asia launched the fifth season of its hit game show ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’ (KBC) in USA on Aug 15th- India’s 65th Independence Day. This years’ KBC is presented by Prem Jyotish & Amantel in association with United Healthcare, Maya F o o d s , O o r a a , B h a r a t Matrimony, Sona Jewelers, Western Union, New York Life, Ireo, Shantiniketan, Nanak, Ashoka & Seasons.

Based on the most popular global television show in history ‘Who Wants to be a Millionaire’, ‘KBC’ follows the same concept of giving individuals the chance to win a life changing cash prize. As the contestant moves up the money tree, the questions increase in difficulty with a total of 13 questions leading to the 5 crore Rupees jackpot.

A major unique and innovative

element added to the new fifth season will allow the contestants to set their own safe haven anywhere in the money tree, adding to the immense suspense already synonymous with the show.

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan

was confirmed host of the show for the next two series’. Commenting on this Mr. Bachchan said, “Sony and I have signed on for KBC for the next 2 seasons, your blessings and encouragement are needed in abundance!” he stated further, “KBC conceptually was brilliant.

There was drama, learning, suspense and thrills all rolled into one. Its presentation was something that had been pioneering for Indian television. All these factors

work”.

Commenting on the launch of the new series, Neeraj Arora, Executive Vice-President Head of International Business, said, “KBC holds a prominent position in Indian television. There could be no better host than Mr. Bachchan who is not only a global movie star, but also an icon to billions of fans around the world. With the new season of KBC we continue to offer our viewers the best and biggest collection of high quality format shows found anywhere on Asian television.”

Jaideep Janakiram, SVP International Business-Head of North America, said, “The previous seasons of KBC have been enormously successful in USA and we are positive this season will surpass everyone’s expectations with its bigger and better format.

The show will have a deeper connect with the audience this time, mirroring their real ambitions and aspirations. Each show will have a miniature India in all its glory, variety and color.”

The new season starting Aug 15 will run into 14 weeks- 56 episodes aired Monday to Thursday at 8:30p.m. EST. For more information please call- Sheila – 201-566-0610

Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com

Picture of the Week

Muslim parents taking their son in the dress of Lord Krishna for a fancy dress competition...this picture was taken on the Bridge of Ahmedabad which connects the communal sensitive areas...!! - Indian Express

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with Fifth Anniversary, FIs Announces Initiatives

By JaWaHar MalHOTra HOUSTON: “The immigration reform bill that President John F. Kennedy perused in the late 60’s and was passed in 1965 changed the face of America,” said Charles Foster. “It did away with the system of quotas based on national origins that favored immigrants from the UK (65,000), Germany (50,000) and other European countries that never filled them at the expense of India, which had a quota of only 100 per year.”

This perked up the ears of the guests, many of whom were first generation immigrants themselves from India. Almost 100 people had come to attend the fifth anniversary celebration and fundraiser for the Foundation for Indian Studies, held this past Friday, August 19 at the Junior League on Briar Oaks Lane just inside the West Loop.

Foster continued to explain how this single act allowed for large scale immigration to the US from the rest of the world, based on job skills. As they came and settled, the Indian community specifically grew more prosperous and entrenched in various spheres of commerce, gaining leadership roles in Bose, Citibank and Pepsico to name a few.

Foster is a well-known figure in the world of immigration law and advised President George W. Bush on immigration reform issues. He continues to promote changes to the immigration laws.

Foster was even portrayed in the 2010 Hollywood movie, “Mao’s Last Dancer” which tells the story of famed Houston Ballet star Li Cunxin, a Chinese national, who was forcibly detained inside the Chinese Consulate after informing Chinese authorities that he intended to remain in the United States. Foster refused to abandon his client

at the consulate fearing the Chinese would spirit Li out of the country against his will.

What followed was a tense and sometimes surreal 21-hour negotiation.

But the evening belonged to the work that has gone into making the Foundation of Indian Studies a self-perpetuating program at the University of Houston, ever since its inception with the urging of Krishna Vavilala, Chair of the FIS, “who is a persistent visionary,” said Parul Fernandes, the Vice-Chair and Director of International Studies at UH. “I didn’t have anything better to do,” quipped Vavilala as he stepped to the podium, “so I’m doing this now to support the community.” He explained how UH had taken the FIS program from 2 to 6 courses, with the urging and support of President Renu Khator, to enable earning a minor in Indian Studies and revealed the latest initiative, an Indo-American Oral History Project that will save the words, voices and faces of a select group of community leaders on digital archives to be stored on the servers of the Houston Public Library. A short video showed clips from the recordings made of first three selected – Dr. P. N. Rao, Dr. Raj Bhalla and Dr. Paul Mehta.

“This is the most environmentally friendly project, no trees will be razed!” continued Vavilala, “and we need to capture these people in their Sunset Years. We are living long but are losing our memories!” A committee will select the candidates and there will be two interviews each month, but there is a need to expedite and to raise the money for recordings.

Others at the celebration included Indian Vice-Consul Anil Matta, Judith Hyatt with the Library, Dr. John Roberts with the FIS, Dr. Jerald Strickland, Vice Chancellor for

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Clockwise from right: John Antel, VP at UH; immigration attorney Charles Foster with Krishna Vavilala; Manisha Mehta with Parul Fernandes, Dr. Sewa Legha (left) with Surinder Talwar

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Narayana Murthy Bids Goodbye to Infosys BANGALORE (SI): N.R. Narayana Murthy is the key founder of the IT giant Infosys and the person responsible to bring Bangalore on the world map. His clear and coherent policies have created an environment where a professional can indeed show as much commitment to the company as a founder-member. He is the first Indian to bring an Indian company in the listing of NASDAQ and created the boom of IT sector in India. And today the time has arrived when he is all set to bid his final good bye to the organization which he had nurtured himself. N.R. Narayana Murthy will step down as Infosys chairman on August 19th and will hand over his role to KV Kamath.

The exit of Murthy as the chairman of the company will mark the end of his journey with Infosys on professional front, although his heart still remains with Infosys.

Reactions across his industry members are flooding in the media.

“He is a visionary, is forthright and resolute in action. His contribution to the industry has been phenomenal and his efforts have been instrumental in putting India on the global map.

I wish him the very best for the next phase of his life,” said Azim Premji, Chairman, Wipro.

Co-Founder of INFOSYS S Gopalakrishnan said, “When I was in the U.S. during 1993-94, Murthy said the action was shifting to India and asked me to come back and take charge of the support functions. I

wondered then why, but later realized that it helped me with very good learning.”

Former Infosys leader, Mohandas Pai said, “He always spoke about how he hired his co-founders and why they were the best because he had hired them, making us angry and despondent. He heard my arguments gladly; always patient and sparring with him was the best.”

“The best advice Murthy gave me is to take honest feedback with grace and humility,” said Nandan Nilekani, Co-Founder, and Infosys.

In the annual report of the company Murthy made very emotional revelation of facts that occurred during his association with Infosys and said, “I have been the number one actor in all major decision taken in the company. I have rejoiced every significant milestone of the company.

I have commiserated in every false step that the company has taken. The best analogy that I can think of for this separation between Infosys and me is that of a daughter getting married and leaving her parents home. Yes, the parents will be there when she needs them and they will be happy that she is starting a new life in an exciting new environment.”

During his journey in Infosys Murthy has experience various ups and downs. He said, “There have been some moments of great dilemmas and sadness too. Biding goodbye to perhaps the brightest co-founder colleagues in early in the journey was

disheartening.”

Another setback that came on his way was in 1990 when Infosys was on the verge of winding up. Five of the founders of Infosys met in a small office in a Bangalore suburb and the decision at hand was the possible sale of Infosys for the a sum of $1 million and Murthy offered to buy the equities from the others founders although he did not have a single cent in his hand.

Murthy was born on August 20, 1946 in Karnataka. His father was teacher in a high school and he belonged to poor family. He wanted to pursue engineering from Indian institute of technology. For entrance test they did not had any coaching classes and used to study in a stone Mantap.

Murthy obtained his engineering degree (BE) from University of Mysore in 1967. In 1969, he went on to attend the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT, Kanpur) for his master’s degree (M Tech). Infosys’ journey started with an initial capital investment of 10,000 borrowed from Mr Murthy’s wife Sudha. More than 30 years later, Infosys’revenues have grown to 27,000 crore In the year 1981 Murthy founded Infosys with an initial capital of 10,000 borrowing from his wife Sudha. He served as the founder CEO of Infosys for 21 years, and was succeeded by co-founder Nandan Nilekani in March 2002.

Murthy has imparted huge lessons

of life from his journey before and after Infosys and he had spoken about those striking incidents of life at many auspicious occasions. The first event which taught him great lesson of life occurred when he was a graduate student at IIT, Kanpur.

The incident took place when he was at his breakfast in 1968 when he had a chance encounter with a famous computer scientist from a well-known U.S. university.

The professor discussed exciting new developments in the field of computer science with a large group of students and how those developments would alter the future. He was eloquent and his facts were beyond argumentation. Murthy was hooked in his teachings so deeply that he straight away headed towards library from his breakfast table and read four or five papers that professor had suggested, and left the library determined to study computer science.

That’s when he found the real purpose in life. This experience taught him how the most valuable advice can sometimes come from an unexpected source.

The next event that changed his life took place in1974 when he was in Bulgaria. The very day the bank was closed hence he did not have enough money with him and had to keep starving. He slept on the railway platform until 8.30 pm in the night when the Sofia Express arrive the station.

The only passengers in his com-

partment were a girl and a boy and he began conversation in French with the young girl. Later a police intervened who thought they were criticizing the communist government of Bulgaria.

The girl was spared, however he was dragged along the platform into a small room and held in that bitterly cold room without food or water for over 72 hours. He lost all his hope of ever seeing the outside world again but the door opened and the guard said since he belonged from a friendly country called India he is let off.

That is when he decided to enter into entrepreneurship to create large-scale job as it can be the only mechanism for eradicating poverty in societies.

Today Infosys has created 133,560 employees across the world. It has offices in 33 countries and development centers in India, China, Australia, UK, Canada, Brazil and Japan.

And with the foundation laid so strong by Narayana Murthy, the ahead for Infosys seems good.

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Indo American News • Friday, Aug 26, 2011

Uncommon Hero Who would have thought a retired Army truck driver would become India’s latest folk hero?Anna Hazare has certainly shaken up the country’s babudom and gained attention throughout the world for his moral stance.

Hazare’s crusade is already achieving results. For one thing, the Government is said to have aceded to 70% of Team Anna’s demands and may make further concessions if Hazare’s condition deteriorates further. According to the Times of India, 22 children (18 boys and 4 girls) have been named Anna. One of the fathers is happy that he did not have to pay any bribes to the hospital staff. Says Sanjay Patel, a resident of Patharia tehesil of Damoh, “Last year when my wife delivered a child, I had to pay Rs 500 as bribe to the hospital. The hospital staff demanded it as a gift.

Now my brother’s wife delivered a child this week, no one dared to ask even a single paisa”, he told TOI. “This is Anna’s magic,” he says.

Corruption is part of the sarkari fabric. The bribetakers extend from the chaparasi to the minister. It is not a recent phenomenon either. In the days of kings and queens, it was necessary for any petitioner to bring a gift for the authorities. Even in the British colonial days, an army private had to pay a bribe to his superior to move up the ranks.

One reason for corruption is the low salary structure for government servants. If this wage structure is upgraded, there will be less temptation to seek bribes. The funding for this upgrade could be gained from extracting it from India’s black economy.

The first step would be to recover the funds Indian politicians and businesspeople have stowed away in Swiss bank accounts.

On the Internet, you will find a list of account owners and their holdings that are in thousands of crores of rupees. The list is apparently released by Wikileaks. If the list is factual and not just Internet fiction that has gained traction through multiple forwards, it reveals an astonishing level of corruption at the highest political and business circles.

It is natural for the news media to be cynical about any crusade.

This time, I hope we are taken by surprise.

Salaam to Kalam The last folk hero before Anna Hazare was President APJ Abdul Kalam. An educator and a scientist, Kalam brings out the best of India through his lectures to the old and young. His blueprint “India 2020: A Vision for the New Millennium” remains a viable roadmap for the country’s balanced development.

It was gratifying to have President Kalam visit India House in Houston, talk to students at the University of Houston and receive the UH Lifetime Achievement award. It is worth noting that Kalam continues to serve the country through his role as the chancellor of the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology.

Pramod Kulkarni

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How to Reclaim Moral Authority

By Jay Panda

It is a country where a cabinet minister is in jail for large-scale corruption; the public is seething with anger at the government for its callousness; high inflation continues to be a problem; and the government has raised an alarm about terrorists being trained across the border in Pakistan.

The country mentioned above is not India, but China.

Surprised? But it’s true, and just goes to show that even a political system without the handicaps of democracy does not prevent the kind of problems India has been facing. Yet there is a category of Indians - mostly middle class, growing in number, and disgusted with the state of our politics - that yearns for simple, quick solutions. Linked to that is a lack of patience for the checks and balances of democracy. And like it or not, Anna Hazare has become the messiah who promises to satisfy their yearning.

The disgust that middle-class Indians feel for politics and politicians has not come about overnight, it has been brewing for years. Inch by inch, the political class has ceded moral authority. At times the vacuum in legislative responsibility and governance has been filled by judicial activism. At other times NGOs have stepped in. And through it all, the media has chipped away at political legitimacy by exposing one transgression after another. This disgust is now deeply entrenched and will not subside easily.

In the circumstances, it would have taken extraordinarily bold and decisive actions by the government to have a hope of persuading the agitators that it was serious about tackling corruption. Instead, what has been on display is foot-dragging and tactical blunders at every step. There does not appear to be any overall strategy to deal with the problem on hand. In case that sounds partisan, the fact is that Parliament’s central hall is buzzing with similar sentiments expressed privately by MPs across the political spectrum.

While Anna Hazare’s actions are textbook Gandhian civil disobedience tactics, the government seems to have been taken by surprise at each

There is a category of Indians - mostly middle class, growing in number, and disgusted with the state of our politics - that yearns for simple, quick solutions. Linked to that is a lack of patience for the checks and balances of democracy. And like it or not, Anna Hazare has become the messiah who promises to satisfy their yearning. and every turn. That is ironic, considering that it is led by a 125-year-old party which was once headed by Gandhiji himself. What is odder still is a level of political disconnect in reading the signs. Take, for instance, the parliamentary discussion on Anna’s arrest. Whereas a mea culpa might arguably have regained some of its lost political capital, the government instead focussed on explaining technicalities. But technical justifications can only go so far; they cannot dispel the perception that government actions have been inconsistent.

Of course, the entire political class, including the opposition, is responsible for the public’s cynicism about politicians. And it is no one’s claim that corruption didn’t exist prior to this government. Nevertheless, it is on this government’s watch that the issue has come to a boiling point.

And, in the parliamentary system of democracy, the onus rests squarely on it to introduce the necessary changes and build consensus around them.

There are three broad reasons why the government’s response is in disarray. The first is inertia. After decades of seeing various corruption scandals eventually dissipate, even a year of scandals and agitations is still seen by some as yet another passing phase. Even as recently as a week ago some proponents of this viewpoint were predicting, wistfully, that Anna Hazare’s second coming would be a damp squib.

Second, there has been a lack of leadership. Instead of a coherent chain of command, there has been no place where the buck has firmly stopped. Various ministers and other leaders have behaved like a hastily put together football team, with whoever being nearest the ball at any given time taking a wild kick without regard to the direction.

Third, and most importantly, there has been a suspicion that the opposition has either engineered the agitation or is at least trying to shrewdly take advantage of it. The blunt response to this insecurity is simply, “So what?” Even if this were true, it neither absolves the government of its responsibility nor makes political sense to do so.

The reality, however, is that many in the opposition are willing to cooperate with the government. Some leaders, while resolutely putting the government in the dock - as indeed they are entitled to - have nevertheless clearly said that they are not entirely in agreement with the Jan Lokpal draft. In fact, even the highly publicised intransigence of “Team Anna” is likely an exaggeration.

Many constitutional experts have questioned some aspects of the Jan Lokpal draft, mainly on the undesirability of compromising democratic checks and balances. For instance, the Lokpal having oversight of multiple branches - executive, legislative and judicial - would violate a fundamental tenet of democracy, not to mention the Constitution itself. Others have questioned the desirability of the prime minister being covered. It is worth noting that some other democracies exempt the head of government from such oversight, but only for official actions and only while in office.

At the time of this writing, there are clear hints from Anna’s camp that they are willing to consider some changes in their draft. And in the ongoing monsoon session, Parliament has already demonstrated that it is capable of returning to past levels of high debate and effective functioning. The timing may now finally be right for a historic, tough and constitutionally sound Lokpal Bill. TOI The writer is a Lok Sabha MP.

IndoAmerican News Founder: Dr. K.L. Sindwani Editor: Pramod Kulkarni Business Manager: Jawahar Malhotra Managing Partner: Krishna Giri Community Reporter: Kalyani Giri Community Editor: Manasi Gokhale Administrative Manager: Vanshika Vipin Business & Recreation: Jacob David Graphic Design: Saqib Rana correspondents Chicago: Nand Kapoor, UK: Aseem Kulkarni New Delhi: Raj Kanwar ®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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despite a Great Program, IFest Attendance dismal

By JaWaHaR MaLHOTRa HOUSTON: The India Culture Center has been bringing out the IFest event for many years since the first one that that this reporter helped organize in 1984. Even as the name changed from India Bazaar to India Festival and now IFest, the concept has stayed the same for the most part.

Vendor booths. Food booths.

Kiddie activities. A stage for a cultural program. Seating for a few thousand. Performances by young kids, other organizations, teenagers. Choreographed dances and talent shows. Fashion shows.

Through the years the for- Miss Teen Texas USA program was the highlight of the evening at IFest 2011. mula was tweaked based on Photos: Touch of Color Studio.com, Arpit Duggal & Shiraz Maherali those who were managing President Raj Bhalla and others. older people who helped to support the different elements, but it There were all this and more. But IFest in years past as well as the dearth has always been a team effort. Even the venue has shifted from the initial as everyone scratched their heads of young people – the 17 to 35 yearSharpstown Center to Adam’s Mark and gave a perplexed look – in the olds second Genners along with their to Reliant Park to the most often used case of the vendors who had paid a third Genner kids. Could it be that George Brown Convention Center. nice sum for their booths, a vexed Indian Independence Day (or for that This year Harshad Patel headed the look - where were all the people matter, Indian Republic Day) doesn’t event, with help from Charlie Patel who were supposed to come? By the have the same cache with them as organizer’s own estimates, only about it does for the mostly middle-aged and the whole ICC Board.

It has always been a showcase of 2,000 came to the event, leaving crowd and new immigrants that were the way the community has grown many seats empty for the stage shows at the IFest and made up the parade? and the talent that it has developed. and entertainment and lots of exasper- Perhaps it’s time for an Indian HeriAnd for those who attend, it provides ated explanations and theories as to tage Day that can encompass both that once-a-year opportunity to meet why. (Reportedly, the Anand Bazaar events, akin to the St. Patrick’s Day people who may live in the far-flung in Dallas this year had a 60% drop-off Parade in Boston. It would certainly cut down on the duplicity of effort corners of this widespread metropo- in attendance too).

These ranged from blaming the (and there is a lot) in souvenirs, talent lis. And usually, several thousand people attend, but this also ebbs and sluggish economy, the heat wave, rehearsals and the like.

Still, for those who did come, they flows – and may have reached close fatigue from too many events held to 8 or 9 thousand at its peak. Last every weekend, conflict with Jana- were entertained to a great stage show year’s estimates are that between 6 mashtami events that weekend, an and vendors who had the time to reto 7 thousand attended the evening entry fee of $5 per head, not enough ally get to know them and picked up entertainment program, although the publicity, held on a Sunday, the day lots of freebies. And you still ran into afternoon crowd around the booths before schools started and perhaps that once-in-a-year friend and caught even a sense of déjà vu with the up with the latest news. It took your may have been closer to 4,000.

This year’s IFest had all the same sameness of the IFest. But a telling mind off the slow economy. And elements, indicating that hours of sign may have been the absence of the the heat! organization had gone into getting MissTeen Texas USA the 74 booths together (although there Makeup: Apsara Beauty Salon were only 4 food booths), arranging Miss Teen TX USA: Neha Reddy Pageant Director & for volunteers and putting the cultural 1st Runner-Up: Rupal Mehta and stage show together, including a 2nd Runner-Up: Thushara Korattyil choreographer: Jasmeeta Singh 3-hour long Miss Teen Texas USA Facebook Favorite: Neha Reddy Major sponsor: Maharaja Jewelers program that was the highlight of the Mystic Hair: Anushka Bhatia & Salon Gallery evening. There was even the parade Best Smile: Krystal Joseph Pageant clothes sponsor: of mostly middle-aged people around Best Personality: Rupal Mehta M.A.B.Y by Tanaz Choudhry the cavernous Hall E of groups from Saris sponsor for the final round: different organizations waving In- Judges:Nikki Dhokia, Sonal Inara Designers by Narmeen dian flags (and only a handful of Bhuchar,Tanaz Choudhry, Sandhya Lakhani young people), led by a Malayalee Thakkar, Narmeen Lakhani.

Exclusive media sponsor: drummer troupe ahead of the VIP Emcees: Abhishek Benerjee, Shred- Music Masala & Sunil Thakkar line up that included Mayor Annise har Dadi, Neha Srivastav, Sanjana Other media sponsor: Palla, & 8-year old Rajeev Singh Radio Hangama Parker, Judge Ed Emmett, Indian Consul-General Sanjiv Arora, ICC Kindra.

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Under A dangerous motto

By refusing to take bribes, the Madurai collector has earned 18 transfers in 20 years, a modest house and bank balance and lots of respect

By PUSHPa IyEnGaR (Outlook) On a hot summer afternoon, on Madurai’s busy main road, the district collector, U. Sagayam, saw a young man talking on a cellphone while riding a motorbike. He asked his driver to wave the man down, got down from his car and meted out instant punishment: plant 10 saplings within 24 hours. Somewhat unconventional justice, some might say. But that’s how Sagayam works.

‘Lanjam Thavirtthu, Nenjam Namartthu’ (Reject bribes, hold your head high), says a board hanging above Sagayam’s chair in his modest office. That’s the code he lives by,

them rehabilitate.” Nageshwaran, a taxi-driver and one of Sagayam’s many fans, says, “He’s strict and hasn’t taken even ten paise in bribe during his career. He’s like the upright collectors they show in some films, a real hero with integrity.”

Sagayam’s masters degrees in social work and law come in useful in his role as an administrator. He knows the rulebooks in detail and is not afraid of using them, however powerful the opponent. No wonder then that Sagayam’s career is marked with the scars of countless battles.

When he was in Kanchipuram as revenue officer, he took on the sand mafia, ordering them to stop dredging

U. Sagayam gives audience to women

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even if politicians are incensed they cannot bend him their way—he’s been transferred 18 times in the last 20 years—and has made enemies of both superiors and subordinates. “I know I sit under a dangerous slogan and probably alienate people,” he says. “But I have been the same Sagayam from Day 1. Standing up against corruption is not for a season.

Nor is it a fad. It’s forever.”

Two years ago, as district collector of Namakkal, he voluntarily declared his assets: a bank balance of Rs 7,172 and a house in Madurai worth Rs 9 lakh. Once, when his baby daughter, Yalini, who had breathing problems, was suddenly taken ill, he did not have the Rs 5,000 needed for admitting her to a private hospital. At that time he was deputy commissioner (excise) in Coimbatore and there were 650 liquor licences to be given out. The going bribe for each was rumoured to be Rs 10,000.

Sagayam started cleaning up Madurai the minute he landed here. The main bus terminus at Mattuthavani looked more like a bazaar, with shops all over the bus-shelters and no waiting place for passengers. Even a police outpost had been turned into a shop. The system was well-oiled with haftas to local politicians and policemen. Sagayam quickly went through the rulebook, cited the relevant clauses and cleaned up the entire area. But didn’t it hit poor shopkeepers who lost their livelihood? “A violation is a violation,” says Sagayam, “but we will help

When errant village officers ganged up to get Sagayam transferred, people protested and the order was rescinded. sand from the Palar riverbed. Largescale dredging had made the area flood-prone. The mafia sent goons to assault Sagayam, but he did not budge and would not take back the order. He also took on a mighty softdrink mnc when a consumer showed him a bottle with dirt floating in it. He sealed the bottling unit and banned the sale of the soft drink in the city.

In Chennai, he locked horns with a restaurant chain and recovered four acres valued at some Rs 200 crore.

Given such credentials, it wasn’t surprising for him to be picked by the Election Commission to oversee elections in Madurai, as famous for its temples as its political gods. During the last polls, Sagayam took on M.K. Azhagiri, the local MP and son of former CM and DMK supremo M. Karunanidhi. He conducted voter awareness campaigns in colleges; the DMK petitioned the court twice, seeking to end what it said was an attempt to influence voters, but the court demurred.

Sagayam’s wife Vimala has stood by him all these years but she was rattled by some of the threats during the elections. “He always says if you are right, nobody can hurt you,” she

says. “But sometimes it becomes difficult.”

Sagayamtakesahands-onapproach to his work. He holds a Monday ‘durbar’, at which anyone can meet him with their complaints. During tours of the district for review meetings and inspections, he will suddenly stop a school bus to talk to children or duck into a school to take a class. When students tell him they want to be IAS or IPS officers, he asks, “It’s all well to say now that you’ll be honest, but will you remain unbending about not taking bribes throughout your career?”

Some months back, while driving to a village, he found a 92-yearold woman cleaning rice. She said she had to work in order to eat. He immediately sanctioned Rs 1,000 as old-age pension for her. When 60-year-old Vellamma met him during a tour of Uthappanaikkanoor village this week and asked him to grant her a pension, he said, “I can do that. But do you want me to send your son to jail too—for abandoning you?”

He said it with a smile, as a joke, but he has in fact taken action against children who don’t take care of their aging parents.

“I believe, as Mahatma Gandhi said, that India lives in her villages,” says Sagayam, who also idolises Subhash Chandra Bose. His years as a collector—he has slept overnight in village schools many times—have convinced him to better the lot of villagers by strengthening the village administrative officer (VAO) system.

Many VAOs have never visited villages and often stay miles away from where they should be, in cities. In Namakkal, his action against errant VAOs had them ganging up with politicians to get him transferred.

Over 5,000 villagers protested, saying they wouldn’t let Sagayam go.

The politicians had to retreat.

Sagayam says he learnt honesty on his mother’s knees. He is the youngest of four sons of a farmer from Pudukottai. “Our adjoining field had mango trees and my friends and I would pick the fallen fruit,” he says.

“But my mother made me throw the mangoes away, saying I should enjoy only what is mine.” Now his daughter Yalini wants to become a collector. When she has an argument with her brother Arun, she asks her father, “Is he really your son? He just told a lie!” Both of them are proud of their father. Recently, after a long time, the Sagayam family went on a vacation to Kullu in Himachal Pradesh. While visiting a gurudwara, a stranger came up to their father and asked him, “Aren’t you IAS officer Mr Sagayam?” Yalini and Arun have not stopped beaming.

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14th BANA Academic Fest Held on August 13

HOUSTON: Bihar Association of NorthAmerica (BANA), a non-profit organization based in Houston, TX, USA hosted 14th edition of Academic Fest on Saturday, August 13th, 2011 at the Houston Community College campus in Stafford, TX. More than 100 students from 1st through 12th grade participated in the primary, elementary, middle, and high school sections in variety of activities like Spelling Bee, Math Sense, Fine Arts, Vocabulary, Speech, SAT Practice Test and Debate.

The event was kicked off by the lead organizer Ravi Ranjan followed by welcome by the BANA president Bijay K Singh. BANA’s youth ambassador Ashay Bhavishi gave a brief orientation of the Academic Fest including schedule of the day.

Subsequently he highlighted mission of the organization and accomplishments. At the end of the orientation all participants were led to their assigned classrooms by their coordinators.

Around noon, all participants too

Umesh Prasad.

BANA secretary and lead organizer Ravi Ranjan thanked and congratulated all organizers, volunteers, judges and sponsors for their help and support for a very successful Academic Fest 2011.

Listed below are winners by categories.

(High School-Debate) 1-Saket Jha, 2-Vinamra Prakash, 3-Lakshmi Poornima Tamma Bidhu Prakash, Rakesh Sinha, Ayash Bhavishi, Chandeshwar Sharma, (High School-SAT Practice Mithilesh Kumar, Vijay singh, Santosh Jha, Yusuf Sultan, Ravi Ranjan, Test) 1-Shomik Verma, 2-Ayush Bijay K Singh, Hemant Jha with his son Harsh and Madhusudan Sharma, 3-Lakshmi Poornima Choudhary Tamma break for lunch. The contest con- concrete facts in a close contest.

(Middle School-Speech) 1-Shreetinued after the break with brisk Winners were awarded trophies and tika Singh, 2-Shreya Gupta, speed. The event closed with the final certificates by distinguished guests 3-Yashi Prasad, 4-Vidisha Ganesh, round of the High School debate. The and BANA ex-presidents Mr. Ram 5-Saijayanth Mosalakanti topic “Be resolved nuclear energy Mohan Mallik, Vijay Singh, and Dr. (Middle School-Math) 1-Pranay is harmful to humanity?” was very Madhusudan Choudhary and current Krishna Tamminayana, 2-Nikhil informative and the finalists debated president Mr. Bijay K Singh.

Gattu,3-Anusha De, 4-Yashi Prasad, each other’s views in a respectable Award ceremony was conducted 5-Smriti Ahuja and professional manner, professing by Ashay Bhavishi, supported by (Middle School-Vocabulary) their opinions and arguments with Mithilesh Kumar, Rakesh Sinha and 1-Juhi Choudhury, 2-Saku, 3-Pranay

Krishna Tamminayana, 4-Anusha De, 5-Naveen Chokkar (Elementary School-Spelling Bee) 1-Anuraag Madabushi, 2-Shobha Dasari, 3-Pratik R Pohuja, 4-Sanath Govindarajan, 5-Tony Jha (Elementary School-Math Sense) 1-Anuraag Madabushi, 2-Shomik Ghose, 3-Sanath Govindarajan, 4-Sathvik Reddy Gujja, 5-Hrishikesh Kommu (Elementary School-Fine Arts) 1-Aakash Sinha, 2-Tony Jha, 3-Amish, 4-Hrishikesh Kommu, 5-Arya Ranjan (Primary School-Spelling Bee) 1-Raksheet Reddy Kota, 2-Noopur Dayal, 3-Shourav Dasari, 4-Sunaina Ayyagari, 5-Sneha S. Shenoy (Primary School-Math Sense) 1-Raksheet Reddy Kota, 2-Sneha S. Shenoy, 3-Abhinav Vadassery, 4-Abhinav Sinha, 5-Pramit De (PrimarySchool-FineArts)1-Sneha S. Shenoy, 2-Sweta Gupta, 3-Noopur Dayal, 4-Surya Chokkar, 5-Nilesh Madi Sagar

Houstonians Join Anna Hazare in Second Freedom Movement HOUSTON: Hundreds of Houstonians and people from surrounding cities like Dallas, San Antonio, Austin etc. joined Anna Hazare’s movement demanding the Jan Lokpal Bill.

Meanwhile New Delhi, bolstered by consensus at the all-party meeting that parliamentary processes cannot be subverted, the government drew the hard line in its talks with Team Anna this evening, rejecting their demand to adopt the Jan Lokpal Bill in toto, and telling them bluntly that

the collective will of parties in Parliament could not be defied.

Emerging from the meeting at Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee’s North Block office, ashen-faced aides of Anna Hazare told reporters that the government had done a volte face over yesterday, and that negotiations were back to “square one”.

Soon afterward, Arvind Kejriwal, Kiran Bedi and Prashant Bhushan joined Anna on the stage at Ramlila Maidan, and told the crowd that should the fasting activist be picked

Protest at India House

Protest at Indian Consulate

up tonight, they must not turn violent.

“They (the government) have gone back on their assurances. Today there was a sea change in their attitude,” Arvind Kejriwal said after emerging from the meeting tonight. Kiran Bedi added, “It didn’t seem like we were talking to the same people whom we spoke with yesterday. There was a difference of day and night in their attitude. Kal suna, aaj sunaaya (Yesterday we were heard, today we were rebuked).”

“Yesterday it appeared that government or ministers representing government were sympathetic and that only three issues of lower bureaucracy, lokayukta and citizens’ charter remained unresolved. But today we have been told that parliamentary procedures cannot be short-circuited.

That some timeline will have to be adhered to, though it’s not clear what the timeline will be. We are quite disappointed with today’s meeting.”

Anna Hazare’s health was “reaching a difficult stage”, his associate Kiran Bedi tweeted Tuesday evening.

“Pray for Anna’s health. He is reaching a difficult stage. Dr Trehan is on his way,” Bedi tweeted. Tuesday was day eight of 74-year-old Anna Hazare’s fast against the government’s Lokpal bill. “While talks will be on we are very concerned of Anna’s health. Pray pl(ease),” Bedi said.

Hazare’s health condition was said to be fine by doctors Tuesday morning. He has lost 5.5 kg. Ketone particles have been found in his blood but were said to be in the safe limit.

Delhi-based actor and model Salina Wali Khan too has joined the fray.

Salina has said that she will dance naked if the government doesn’t pass the Jan Lokpal Bill proposed by Anna Hazare and his team.

HOUSTON: MakeMyTrip.com exhibit at the recent India Independence Day Celebrations at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Downtown Houston attracted a large number of visitors.

A special incentive for filling out a simple questionnaire at their booth was an entry to win one round-trip air ticket from anywhere in the USA to any destination in India. In the photo above, former Indian military official, Vipin Kumar, draws the winning entry. The winner was Sandhya Shah of Houston. The others in the picture are, from left, Vaishnavi Dusi, Jacob David and Revanth Dusi. Photo: Krishna Giri

HOUSTON: Over eighty guests attended an exclusive dinner reception in honor of Dr. Abdul Kalam at the India House on August 21. The former President of India had engaging discussions with attendees on various topics including the widespread corruption in India; how the movement under the leadership of Anna Hazare is making a huge impact worldwide; and what we as Indian Americans can do to support this mass movement in India.

In photo above, Ash Shah (left), Savita Rao and Kiran Gupta become apt listeners to Dr. Kalam’s words of wisdom.

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Indo American News • Friday, Aug 26, 2011

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Tidbits About Ganesha

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Honoring the Lord of Beginnings

clay image of Ganesha that the family makes or obtains.

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Perennially happy, playful, unperturbed thisworshiped ofremoves all the obstacles Hindu Deities.

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He the patron of seek His grace protecting the lives AugustSeptember.

It is essentially a birthday travel, building andismore—Hindus for art and science, God inhabiting all entryways, the He is undoubtedly the most endearing, popof devotees.

He isthesuccess. celebrating Ganesha’s divine appearance. gatekeeper who blesses all beginnings.

When initiatand widely worshiped all the Hindu Deities. the patron of art ularWhat do people do onofGanesha Chaturthi? ing anything—whether learning, business, Ganesha Chaturthi (alsoweddings, called Vinayaka Chaturthi) andtravel, science, theand Devoteesseek often fashion or purchase a building more—Hindus His grace falls on the fourth day in thefor waxing fortnight of success.

He is undoubtedly the most endearing, popGod inhabiting statue out inofthe unbaked clay.lunar Many theGanesha month of Bhadrapada sacred Hindu and widely worshiped ofHim all theout Hindu Deities. allular entryways, sculptwhich ofto aa certain special mixture of calendar, translates day in AugustGanesha Chaturthi (also called Vinayaka Chaturthi) September.

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September.

It is essentially a birthday When initiating traditional ecorations.

A arite of worship Devotees often fashion or purchase Ganesha statue nesha’s divine appearance. a n y t h i n g — outand prayer, called puja, is conducted daily, of unbaked clay. Many sculpt Him out of a special w h What e t dohpeople e rdo invoking the energies of the Deity mixture of turmeric, sandalwood paste, and cow inviting dung, on Ganesha Chaturthi? soilHim from anthill andthe palm sugar.

The Deity imageare Devotees often fashion or purchase a Ganesha statue learning, business, toanreside in clay image.

Mantras out of unbaked clay. Many sculpt Himofferings out of a special weddings,travel, building chanted and are made throughout a a pp r r ii ll // m m ay ay // jj u un n ee ,, 22 0 0 11 0 0 mixture of turmeric, sandalwood paste, cow dung, and more—Hindus seek His the puja, including incense,lighted lamps, soil from an anthill and palm sugar. The Deity image grace for success. He is undoubtedly cooked food (naivedya), fruits, durva grass, ??????????a

s o u m ya s i ta r a m a n

s o u m ya s i ta r a m a n

held in Hindu temples around the world honoring visarjana in Sanskrit, to a river, temple tank, lake or seaimmersed, symGanesha, the benevolent, elephant-faced Lord of Obstacles. shore, where His image is ceremonially Who is Ganesha? bolizing Ganesha’s mergingPerennially into consciousness.

In millions of home shrines, worship is also offered to a Who is Ganesha? theuniversal mosthappy, endearing, popular and playful, unperturbed and widely wise,

modaka sweets

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These rich, deep fried, fl uffy, sweet dollops are the Mangalorean equivalent of the Tamil kollukattai. It is the all-time favorite of Lord Ganesha, who is described as Modaka Hasta, one with the modaka in His hand.

Preparation time: 10 minutes.

Cooking time: 30 minutes Makes 20 pieces Cooking equipment: A wok or deep saucepan, a perforated ladle, a lined colander to drain excess oil, a mixing bowl and serving plate.

Ingredients 4 cups thin beaten rice (poha); 1 cup semolina (rava) fl our, 1 cup rice fl our, 1 cup slightly over-ripe bananas, mashed, 1 cup powdered jaggery (or brown sugar), 1/8 tsp salt oil to deep fry Method 1. Mix all the ingredients together except the oil.

2. Add a little water and knead the mixture gently into a thick paste.

•Where is this festival most popular?

Nowhere is Ganesha Chaturthi observed with more creativity and enthusiasm than in Mumbai, India. The city virtually shuts own as millions of Hindus celebrate.

•Why is He Ganesha worshiped first?

Lord Brahma declared that any worship conducted without seeking Ganesha’s blessings would be fruitless. He is considered a loving, playful, protective Deity whose blessings would grace any endeavor. He is therefore ceremonially invoked before weddings, housewarmings, taking an important exam, starting a new business and other important events.

• What is His mystical work?

Lord Ganesha s the God Hindus pray to when changes occur in their lives as they move rom old established patterns into new ones. He is always there to steady the minds of devotees and open the proper doors as they evolve and progress.

•What makes Him distinctive?

Aside from His unique and endearing elephant head, Ganesha carries an elephant goad to prod us along the right path. He holds a noose to lasso foes of dharma and to draw devotees close when they venture off the spiritual path. His mount is a mouse. His big belly is said to contain the fullness of the cosmos. In His hand is a modaka, fruit or other sweet, symbolic of enlightened attainments.

tulasi and pomegranate leaves—and fl owers, especially red ones. After ten days, a simple puja is performed before the statue is taken for a formal departure (visarjana). Often entire communities, from dozens to tens of thousands of devotees, gather each year for this fi nal day of ceremony. The icons are carried on an ornate metal tray—larger images are borne on a palanquin by several strong men—to a lake, a river or the sea. There Ganesha is consigned to the water after removing non-degradable paraphernalia.

What foods are off ered?

Sumptuous foods are specially prepared for Ganesha, keeping in mind His elephantine nature and prodigious appetite. People offer several varieties of fruits such as mangos, bananas and sugarcane. Sweets are the elephant-headed Deity’s delight, so to express their love families take great pains to make special tasty treats. Each family has its recipes.

Fact & Fiction FACT: There is not just one path to God Realization in Hinduism, but many. Tens of thousands of distinct teaching lineages prescribe varying combinations of prayer, rites and rituals, meditation, chanting and the many yogas to guide followers in their spiritual evolution.

3. Heat the oil in the wok.

4. Drop tablespoonfuls of the batter into moderately hot oil and fry till rich brown.

Drain and cool, then enjoy!

FICTION: Many wrongly believe that Hindus worship cows. Hindus don’t worship cows. They respect, honor and adore the cow. By honoring this gentle animal, who gives more than she takes, Hindus honor all creatures.

Houston will celebrate Ganesh Utsav on Hillcroft for 10 days. See Page 35 for more details.

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Indo American News • Friday, Aug 26, 2011

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Accused Killer Kashif Parvaiz Made $2 Million on Controversial Real Estate Deal BOSTON (Huffingtonpost): The man accused of killing his New Jersey wife with the aid of his lover also made a reported $2 million in a controversial real estate deal the day his spouse was shot.

Kashif Parvaiz, 26, allegedly charmed his way into an elderly gay man’s life and persuaded him to sign over his income from a rental apartment building in Queens, N.Y., according to The New York Post.

Martin Ragusa, 74, handed over his stake in the 114-unit building to Parvaiz in 2009, despite opposition from relatives who said Ragusa was “brainwashed” by his young friend. Last Tuesday -- the day that Parvaiz’s wife Nazish Nooran, 27, was shot -- the Queens building was sold, earning $2 million for the husband accused of murder.

Ragusa was extremely close with Parvaiz, describing him as “my son” to The Post. They met

12 years ago when Parvaiz did maintenance work in Ragusa’s home, The Post said.

Additional details emerged about the supposed domestic abuse inflicted upon Nooran, the mother of Parvaiz’s two children. After an argument between his wife and his mother in Atlanta, Parvaiz allegedly locked his bride in a room with a dog -- despite her well-known fear of canines, The New York Daily News said. Relatives told the Daily News that he beat her too.

New Jersey police say that Parvaiz, a Pakistani-American, orchestrated his wife’s murder.

Last week, while they went for Kashif Parvaiz amade $2 million on a controversial real a walk, she was shot and killed estate deal the day his lover allegedly killed his wife

while he suffered minor injuries from four bullets. Initially, Parvaiz fingered three men as the shooters, claiming that the suspects -- a black man, a white man and a man of indeterminate race -- hurled anti-Muslim slurs during the attack.

The cops disproved Parvaiz’s alibi and instead concluded that his lover Antoinette Stephen pulled the trigger. Both were charged with murder, conspiracy and weapons crimes. Authorities added child endangerment to Parvaiz’s list of alleged crimes.

Stephen, who lived in Boston, sent and received a series of incriminating text messages to Parvaiz prior to the shooting, The Boston Herald said.

With their mother dead and their father locked up, the couple’s two sons, aged 2 and 5, are with Parvaiz’s family. But Nooran’s relatives are gearing up for a custody battle for the boys, The Boston Globe said.

Indian American Community Delegation Meets the IRS Offcials on OVDI

A delegation of Indian community representative under the aegis of the National Indian American Coordinating Council met the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) officials to convey community’s concerns ans distress regarding the new Offshore Voluntary Disclosure Initiative (OVDI) and the way in which it has been implemented. The delegation headed by Dr. Thomas Abraham, Founder President and Chairman Emeritus of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), included Lal Motwani, President of the National Federation of Indian American Associations (NFIA), Shailesh Patel, Director at Large of Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) and Maya Chadda of GOPIO and Council On Foreign Relations.

The meeting at the IRS headquarters in Washington, DC was arranged by the office of Congressman Steve LaTourette of Ohio. IRS was represented by Rosemary Sereti, Director of International Individual Tax Compliance; Attorney Advisors to Deputy Commissioner Jennifer Beth and David Vorley, and Legislative Counsel Suzanne R. Sinno of the Office of the Legislative Affairs.

In the meeting the Indian community delegation stressed the following points: First they stressed that their collective survey of the Indiana American community revealed a very high level of distress verging on panic for the following reasons.

1. Most have only recently found out that they are in violation of the IRS requirements of the voluntary disclosure of foreign accounts and income. Information has been sketchy and almost no one knew what the procedure was to come under the 2011 Amnesty Program.

Those who found out only recently are left with no time to file before August 31 2011. Nor are they aware that they need a clearance from the

From Left.: Shailesh Patel, David Vorley, Rosemary Sereti, Jennifer Beth, Lal Motwani, Dr. Maya Chadda and Dr. Thomas Abraham

Treasury Department for entering the Amnesty Program. The delegation made the IRS officials aware of this drawing on real life examples and explained why the community is distressed and confused.

2. People who are caught between the lack of information and lack of time are not willfully violating the tax law. The delegation in fact pointed out that there were broadly two categories of people who are in this situation, those who have sent money to help their extended families in India, supporting aging parents, finance children’s education and that of siblings and younger members of the extended family.

Transfer of money for these reasons was natural for the first generation immigrants. Culturally Asian Americans, Indians in particular, are intensely family oriented. The second category included people who have worked, saved and are sending money in preparation of retirement.

This usually takes the form of property and allied investments. These monies are also usually after tax monies.

The delegation stressed that the way in which the penalty is imposed, i.e. 25% on the highest

balance over the eight years span, was totally out of proportion to the presumed willful violation. Such a level of penulty itself violates the principle of proportionality on which the US law rests. The penulty therefore violates the 8th amendment of the US constitution and the case law precedents it has set. If the penalty was reasonable, more tax payers will comply. It is obviously in the interest of the IRS to promote wider compliance of the tax laws.

3. The third point was about the way the IRS has implemented the Amnesty Program. After entering the program, the tax payees or their accountants only deal with agents who are given no power to separate willful non-compliance from innocent non-compliance. They simply

administer the law and impose punishing penalty. Even If the tax payer has genuine grounds for failing to disclose, the agents are not allowed to use their discretion. This will punish the innocent, in fact the bulk of the community who are law abiding citizens and have regularly paid their dues to the IRS. The delegation suggested that as a first and immediate step, the IRS can take a step to empower the agents with discretionary judgement.

The delegation also shared the fear of being singled out among the groups as targets of IRS inquiry. They suggested that penalty should be levied on non-reported income and not for non-disclosure.

The IRS responded that for those who believe themselves to be innocent of violation have the choice of opting out of OVDI but they would still have to make full disclosure under the August 31 2011 Amnesty Program.

That would expose them to scrutiny but if their case was genuine, (for example the delegation pointed out to the IRS officials that if the interest income during the process of supporting children/siblings education and of buying a retirement home is small amount compared to the estimated penalty), they may escape penalty or pay a much smaller percentage of penalty.

In the simpler cases of non-disclosure, the tax payer can represent themselves to the agent after filing all amended statements during the opt-out procedure.

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WEEKLY HOROSCOPE

www.GaneshaSpeaks.com

ARIES Mar 21 - Apr 20: This week, your stars bring you good luck. You are passionately driven by your work. The fresh, innovative ideas that come to your mind and your newly honed skills are like icing on the cake. Revive old friendships and relive your heydays.

To make it all the more bright, you will have a blooming romantic relationship. And if someone’s ruling your heart and mind already, it’s the right time to take the relationship to the next level. You have made a resolution- to exercise regularly.

TAURUS Apr 21 - May 21 The trend that begins this week is likely to have the ability to make it big, and you will now take a path that assures success and power. But a stable and peaceful family life is something you give maximum importance to. The commitment of your spouse and children towards home is likely to impress you. If you are single, this is going to be a propitious phase for you. It may be your turn to become engaged or married.

GEMINI May 22 - Jun 21: Experience is the best teacher’. You have always known that, but now, you learn it through your own experiences. You have put in a lot of efforts at learning to understand psychologies of the people around you. Naïve is a word from your past, and today, your unshakeable faith, talent and skills speak for themselves. Given the metamorphoses you are undergoing, the spotlight remains on you this week. Your careless attitude too may prove to be a hurdle for you.

CANCER Jun 22 - Jul 23: It’s high time you apply breaks to your super-fast schedule and stressful deadlines. You have too much to do in too little time. You may find it challenging. Stress and pressure may take a toll on your health. Also, you may put on weight due to irregular eating and sleeping habits. Try to follow a regular exercise regime to keep your mind and body fit and healthy. Meditation and yoga are likely to give some respite to your restless mind. This phase is perfect for new beginnings, on personal as well as professional fronts.

LEO July 24 - Aug 23:After a memorable week, you start feeling the heat at the very beginning of this week. As your desires and demands rise, you may feel the pressure on your pocket. Precisely, you may go through financial constraints. Your strong determination power too may become weak. But do not get depressed.

Use your actions and thoughts to uplift your business/ job and financial status. Be sure your family and friends do not abandon you because you have become workoholic VIRGO Aug 24 - Sep 23: Watch every step of yours as the ground beneath seems shaky.

You may be out of an adulterous relationship, but as you know, it is not that easy to forget the beautiful days.

You may try to get over the broken relationship. You may divert your attention to work and household chores to keep yourself busy. New ties and relationships are likely to provide a ray of hope in this dark hour.

Issues related to land, home and property are likely to grab your attention. It’s the right time to make decisions, and set out on a new journey.

LIBRA Sep 24 - Oct 23: Your happy-golucky attitude will solve half of your problems this week. You have worked hard, and now, satisfied with your achievements, you are eager to receive rewards for the same. Smile, as you will reap bountiful rewards. Fun-times is on the cards. You may even have to travel, either for business or just pleasure. Romantic relation-

ships may give a new meaning to your life. Couples may enjoy marital bliss during the week. Keep the stress and tension at bay, and make the most of this benevolent time.

SCORPIO Oct 24 - Nov 22: You will be a social butterfly throughout the week. Your self-belief and confidence may take you to a new level, at work. Interaction with new associates and colleagues will help you think out of the box.

Personally, you may get all the attention, care and love that you have longed for. You will be busy bonding with friends and family at weddings and gatherings. The stock market may offer fresh, profitable deals, help you to make good profit. Make a few investments. Make the most of this lucrative period..

SAGITTARIUS Nov 23 - Dec 22: This week you will don the role of a perfectionist!

Checking minutest of details will become a habit. You will demand the same accuracy from your juniors in office. Loaded with work, you may have a tough time managing both the professional and home front.

Your family, especially parents and siblings may demand your attention. You will strive to keep your family happy, and plan to expand your business.

You will reveal your pleasing attributes and your compassionate nature, and will impress your kith and kin.

CAPRICORN Dec 23 - Jan 20: You make a smart choice this week. You may indulge in projects and relationships that yield fruitful results. You will invest quality time in nurturing your relationships and this will bring you very close to your family. Take up social work and help the deprived.

Your immense potential and far-sightedness will help you achieve your goals. With meticulous planning and consistent efforts you will accomplish unachievable goals and feel on top of the world. Go ahead and conquer the world AQUARIUS Jan 21 - Feb 19: Don’t let your dreams collide with reality, or the loss would be tremendous. Instead of dreaming, you may now want to put in extra efforts in all the projects you are handling. You may eventually learn that hardwork does not go waste. You will willingly rectify your mistake and concentrate on the nitty gritty of work. You essentially possess a great observation power, make the best use of it. Other issues like finances, kid’s education, parents’/spouse’s health may keep you busy and disturbed. The only way in which you can deal with this week is through dedication and sincerity, at both the work and home front. God helps those who help themselves.

PISCES Feb 20 - Mar 20: You give equal attention to your home and work both. ‘Work while you work and play while you play’is what you will swear by. Makeover of your home and other legal issues may keep you on your toes during the middle of the week. You may show remarkable progress in the projects you take up at work this week. With progress comes happiness and contentment. You become a perfectionist and examine minutest details at work and home.

This is a golden period for you because you get the best of both the worlds work & home.

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