E newspaper09122014

Friday, September 12 2014 | Vol. 33, No. 37

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Indo American erican News

www.indoamerican-news.com Published weekly from Houston, TX

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u n a S ar

Kum

r a t S e Th

Houston Bids Adieu to

God Ganesha P 3 & 26

P10

Bollywood Glamour

P5 From left: Kiran Gulati (2nd runner up), Pavana Gadde (1st runner up), Raveena Tandon, Ruchika Dias (Bollywood Shake Founder and CEO), and Nina Desai (Mrs. Bollywood 2014 Winner).

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September 12, 2014

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September12, 2014 3 COMMUNITY Rain Stops for Houston ka Raja

BY MALAY VYAS HOUSTON: Jwala si chalti hai aankhon mein jiske bhi dil mein tera naam hai…Shiv Shakti Temple and Masala Radio’s Sunil Thakkar and the Crazy Masala Crew led Houston’s biggest Indian block party – Ganesh Mahotsav Visarjan with over two thousand devotees biding adieu to their beloved Raja, the 9 ft tall Lord Ganesha on Sunday, September 7, from the Shiva Shakti Mandir in the Gandhi District.

Dharti ambar sitare…Uski nazare utaare… Just 2 hours before the 4th annual outdoor Ganesh Mahotsav Visarjan Festival, dark skies and ominous thunder and lightning greeted the parade.

Houston Police announced that the city street permit was not valid in rain and requested nearly one

thousand dancing devotees to get back in their cars. Undaunted, they prayed with Shri Virat Maharaj to Ganpathi Bappa, the remover of all Obstacles, and suddenly the rain halted. This year’s procession was led by dholi’s, a colorful Masala Rickshaw, and the ubiquitous Mumbai taxi. Houston Ka Raja was next in a truck with

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priests and temple VIPs, followed by the brand new orange and yellow Masala Hummer blasting the latest Bollywood Ganesha songs.

Masala Radio Jockeys danced on the Masala Hummer roof as Ganesha fans danced in the streets, and the procession moved at a languid pace to the Olympic Center where a thousand more devotees awaited

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jewelry and kurti prizes from India Jewelers and Jaipur, to Infused Performing Arts’ finale Ganesh dance on a 40 foot stage. Animesh Patel of Subhlaxmi Grocers said “it just keeps getting bigger and better every year!” Crowds made dual lines to partake in Prasad: Idli Sambhar

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September 12, 2014

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COMMUNITY

BY VANSHIKA VIPIN HOUSTON: Beauty pageants are often associated with young single women so when Bollywood Shake decided to organize the first ever Mrs. Bollywood Houston contest on Sept 6, at the Hilton Americas, even ABC13, Fox 26 and TVAsia ran features on it.

Set in the elegantly designed ballroom decorated

by Aslam and Abdul from Deco-Art, The show began with a performance by Bollywood Shake’s dance troupe to a medley of songs dedicated to the “Shades of Women”. Thereafter, Bollywood Shake Founder and CEO, Ruchika Dias introduced the dance troupe and invited the audience to participate in an interactive dance session Bollywood Shake style.

Once the audience got back in their seats, the judges for the pageant were introduced including the ravishing Raveena Tandon (who didn’t make her entry yet), Mauli Dave, Telugu Actor Mahesh Sriram, Amiralli Dodhiya of New York Life, Jahan and Hina Lakhani from Kaaya Salon, Rohit Garg from Parinaz Boutique. The Emcees of the show were introduced next – Syeda Haseena, an RJ on Houston’s NPR station and a contributor to Brown Girl Magazine and Syed Ali, an RJ with Sangeet Radio.

The emcees set the proceedings going with Round 1 of the pageant choreographed by Raza Hasan where all 12 contestants were introduced in beautiful sarees sponsored by Parinaz boutique, they were accompanied by people who have inspired them for example some came with husbands and some with kids. A short video was also played for each contestant that included glimpses of their talent. This was followed by a spectacular performance by celebrity Bollywood singer and Houstonian Mauli Dave. Mauli sang Balam Pichkari, Dhating Naach, Mayya Mayya and her new single Papparra.

Then it was the turn of the boys as Mr. Bollywood pageant with 5 contestants were

September12, 2014

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introduced and were invited to show their talents. Waqas Syed and Joy entertained the audience with their dancing, Parminder Singh showed his vocal skills and Abdul Jivani and Varun Gupta wowed the audience with their shayari and dialog delivery.

After a small intermission, the ballroom started buzzing again with the first awards for the evening – lucky draw for the Kohinoor diamond give-away and the best dressed male and female awards. The Bollywood Shake dancers were back on stage with another medley of songs – the finale of this medley was Tu Cheez Badi hai Mast Mast. The song marked the entry of Raveena Tandon led by a dholi adding real sense of dhamaka to the ballroom. Ruchika then officially welcomed Raveena by noting

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Photos: Murali Santhana and Harsh M Photography

how punctual she was as a Bollywood star.

In Raveena’s words ‘Everyone who participates is a winner in her eyes’, as she was led off the stage to her seat.

Next up was the formal round where Mrs. Bollywood contestants wore gorgeous bridal clothing by Parinaz boutique as Mauli sang “dil mera muft ka” and “halkat jawaani”.

Mr. Bollywood contestants walked to Ricky Martin’s Maria in Ethnic Indian Wear, all choreographed by Raza Hasan.

The final 6 contestants were then announced and each of them got a question from the judgtes. “If you get a chance, whats the one thing you would change in life” Mauli Dave asked Kiran Gulati while Mahesh Sriram asked Pavana Gadde “whats the biggest challenge you faced in this competition”. On her turn, Raveen Tandon asked Shaneel Mitha “if a genie offers you three wishes, what would those be”. While the judges worked on evaluating the contestant’s answers, Raveen was back on stage to thank Grand Sponsors Amiralli Dodhia (New York Life), Kaaya Salon & Spa, Koh-

inoor Diamonds and Parinaz boutique, official decorator Aslam and Abdul from Deco Art, AK Lodi Films and DJ Rizz and Desi Dhoomerz for Light and Sound.

It was time for the results now as nervous contestants got on stage again. Nina Desai won the Mrs. Bollywood 2014 Winner while Pavana Gadde was 1st runner up and Kiran Gulati, the 2nd runner up. Shaneel Mitha won the beautiful smile award, Heena Ali won beautiful skin and Reshu Bagga got the perfect 10. People’s choice award was Ruchi Singh and Mrs. Talented was Dimpy Virk. Amongst the men, Waqas Syed won Mr. Bollywood 2014 Winner while Varun Gupta won the 1st Runner Up and Parminder Singh won the 2nd runners up.

With this a unique show came to an end.

No matter what stage in life you are, there’s always a time for dreams to come true. The Mr and Mrs Bollywood Pageant worked exactly on that philosophy. The crown itself is just an end result, we all are winners in this pageant and the pageant of life.

INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2014 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

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COMMUNITY

September 12, 2014

Local Artistes Help Focus Support on Sewa, Internationally and at Home

Kusum Sharma in the title role of Amarpali from the drama of the same name.

The organizers and volunteers take a final bow on stage.

Sewa International Houston President Sarojini Gupta (center) with the Americorps volunteer interns.

BY JAWAHAR MALHOTRA HOUSTON: In a departure from its programs of the last two years which featured artistes who toured the US and performed at the annual galas of Sewa International’s 38 domestic national chapters, this year the organization decided to focus on the local talents in each individual geographic location. Last year, for example, the gala had an awe inspiring laser sound and light show

Indian Consul General Parvathaneni Harish and his wife Nandita were chief guests at the event.

by Manick Sorcar, son of the late famed Indian magician P. C. Sorcar, at the Stafford Centre.

Accordingly, Sewa International’s gala this past Friday, September 5 night at the VPSS Haveli off West Bellfort and the Southwest Freeway focused on the musical dance performances of the students of three dance schools who showed their colorful and energetic skills in to a packed hall of supporters. They sat through the 90-minute program totally engrossed by the three types of dance styles and the dozens of lo-

Sewa International Houston President Sarojini Gupta delivers her speech.

The emcees, Priyanka Desai of Music Masala radio show and Chrictine Dobbyn (centered), reporter with KTRH-ABC Channel 13 TV being introduced onstage.

cal performers.

Coupled with the performances of the show held the weekend earlier at Miller Theatre in Herman Park, it was delightful and a matter of pride to discover that Houston has developed such an impressively large cadre of Indian youth interested and involved in the visual and performing arts, with among the largest group of teachers and schools in the country.

The local Sewa Chapter couldn’t have picked from a better group of dance schools. The first group was from the Anjali Center for Performing Arts, headed by the renowned Rathna Kumar (who could not attend as she was at the side of her ailing husband Anil), with the female dancers performing the number “Elemental” set to a video of the four seasons (taken in a style reminiscent of Anil Kumar’s) and matching lighting changes. The dancers kept pace with the rapid classical beat, even juggling moves while balanced on brass thalis.

The next group was pure Bollywood, with its bright colored sequined backdrops and dancers costumes from the Infused Performing Arts group, whose Artistic Director Tina Bose and Creative Director Kiron Kumar are the founders of the school and danced the main roles. The dance moves were matched to a medley of Bollywood

hits that had many people swinging in their seats.

Rounding out the program was a short play segment depicting the life of the historical figure Amrapali, a nagarvadhu (royal courtesan) from around 500 BC who was renowned for her beauty and dancing in Vaishali in present day Bihar, and presented by students of the Kalakriti School of Dance headed by Executive Director Kusum Sharma who has brought the Ram Leela show to Houston audiences for the past six years. The king Ajatashatru falls in love with Amrapali and destroyed Vaishali to get her, but in the meantime she is transformed by her encounter with Gautam Bhudda and becomes his disciple.

The program was emceed by Priyanka Desai, co-DJ of Music Masala Radio Show and Christine Dobbyn, a reporter for KTRHABC, Channel 13 who stood in for her colleague Pooja Lodhia who had to handle some last minute emergency. A nine-year transplant from Indiana, Dobbyn was dressed in a dark sari, matching Desai’s, who helped her wrap it and wear Indian jewelry and makeup as well. Both women worked to energize the crowd and Dobbyn even performed a few steps from her Jazz dance lessons.

Sarojini Gupta, the fervent and enthusiastic President of Sewa International Houston spoke about the four programs the group has pursued over the past year to serve the less fortunate which included sewing and comput-

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September12, 2014

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COMMUNITY

September 12, 2014

Rain Stops for Houston ka Raja CONTINUED FROM PAGE

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Chandrika Masala and water bottles from Subhlaxmi Grocers. Sara International’s Ramesh Parikh donated decorated trucks that held nearly one hundred Ganesh’s, and Harry Saihni allowed the use of the Olympic Center Parking lot. As the temple presented plaques to the donors, Sunil Thakkar thanks the trustees and organizers of Shiv Shakti Mandir including Virat Maharaj, Dhiru Khotak, Ashok Bhambhani, Rajan Bhatia and Hardik Raval for allowing him to relive his childhood Mumbai Ganpati Visarjans.

The Maha Arti was conducted with much religious fervor followed by chants of Ganpati Bappa Morya, Purcha Varshi Luvkar Yaa (Long Live Lord Ganesh, Come back soon next year). Next, at the lake near Madras Pavilion in Sugarland, the Ganesh’s were immersed by Sunil Thakkar, Dilip Kanabar and Ninad Gupte. MP co-owner Alpa Shah personally welcomed devotees with Tilak ceremony and generous portions of traditional chana and sheera prasad, and Shrenik and Payal of Baskin Robbins Grand Parkway passed out ice cream.

Ganesha is the most adored of the Hindu deities; not only is he young, he is also one

of the few who “visits” your home. Celebrated on the fourth day of Bhadra month, festivities for this ‘child-god’ last for ten days ending on “ananth chaturthi”. Staphna is the day you bring Him into your house and treat Him like a part of your family. After 10 days, Ganesha leaves to go back to his family – visarjan – again, and goodbyes are celebrated because He is expected to visit again next year purcha varshi luvkar ya.

Tujhko Phir Se Jalwa Dikhana Hi Hoga…Agle Baras Aana Hai, Aana Hi Hoga.

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COMMUNITY HOUSTON: Hanmi Financial Corporation, the holding company for Hanmi Bank, announced that it has completed its acquisition of Central Bancorp, Inc., the parent company of United Central Bank, effective as of August 31, 2014.

With the merger complete, Hanmi becomes the second largest Korean American Bank in the United States with 50 banking offices and three loan production offices serving different communities across California, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, Texas, Virginia, and Washington. The combined entity has approximately $4.4 billion in assets, $2.8 billion in gross loans, and $3.7 billion in deposits, providing Hanmi with the leading deposit market share among Korean American Banks in Illinois, Texas, and Virginia along with a substantial market share in California.

The transaction was announced December 16, 2013 and approved by shareholders of Central Bancorp on April 17, 2014. The combined companies will operate as Hanmi Financial Corporation and Hanmi Bank, respectively, with banking operations conducted under the Hanmi Bank brand.

“The completion of our merger with United Central Bank is a momentous occasion for Hanmi,” said C. G. Kum, President and

September12, 2014

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Hanmi Bank-United Central Bank Merger

From left (seated): Joseph K. Rho, Chairman of the Board, C. G. Kum, President & CEO, and Bonnie Lee, COO of Hanmi Bank with employees of the former United Central Bank branch on Gessner, addressing a press conference in Houston on Friday, Sept 4.

CEO said at a press conference in Houston on Friday, Sept 4.

“Having opened our first branch in Los Angeles in 1982 with the clear mission of helping immigrants achieve the American Dream, we are thrilled to now provide our customers with 50 branches across the United States. With this expanded geographic presence, we will broaden our market share from our

core Korean American customer base to the wider Asian American and mainstream communities, making Hanmi the first Korean American Bank to extend into these additional communities.”

Kum said Hanmi looked forward to the exciting opportunities that Houston and Texas present for growth and outreach to a greater mix of Asian American

ethnic communities, particularly the Indian and Pakistani Americans. He said initially Hanmi would focus more on commercial banking and gradually get into consumer banking. He announced a very attractive lending rate of 3.95 percent for five yeras on commercial loans. He also said Hanmi was committed to the growth of the community orga-

nizations and would support them fully. “Our philosophy is to support those who support the community,” Kum said.

Kum continued, “I am very pleased that the transaction has proceeded so smoothly, and we can now fully focus our efforts on integrating the two banks as quickly as possible. With the new Hanmi Bank, all of our loyal customers will have the benefit of a larger product offering, improved lending capacity, and enhanced customer service.”

Headquartered in Los Angeles, Hanmi Bank, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hanmi Financial Corporation, provides services to the multi-ethnic communities across California, Texas, Illinois, Virginia, New Jersey and New York with 50 full-service branches as well as loan production offices in Texas, Virginia, and Washington State. Hanmi Bank specializes in commercial, SBA and trade finance lending, and is a recognized community leader.

Hanmi Bank’s mission is to provide a full range of quality products and premier services to its customers and to maximize shareholder value.

For further information visit www.hanmi.com.

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COMMUNITY

10 September 12, 2014

Kumar Sanu Entertains Houston

COMMUNITY

BY VANSHIKA VIPIN STAFFORD: It was an evening of nostalgia at the Stafford Center as versatile singer Kumar Sanu took stage. Sanu’s name is synonymous with romantic hit Bollywood songs from 1990’s and the early 2000’s. Organized by Rehan Siddiqui of Hum Tum Shows, the event welcomed each attending lady with a red rose. After the opening numbers sang by Yogesh and Anuradha Ghosh, Kumar Sanu got ready to sing. Opening with his all time favorite do dil mil rahe hai from Pardes, Sanu got a rousing reception. The audience had a great time clapping and singling along to bas ek sanam chahiye ashiqui ke liye and whistling along to chand sitaare phool aur khushbu.

Kumar Sanu a.k.a Kedarnath Bhattacharya was born in Calcutta. His father Pashupati Bhattacharya was a vocalist and a composer.

Sanu was trained to play table when he was young. Though his first playback break came in 1986 in a Bangladeshi movie, he announced his arrival in the runaway hit Ashiqui in 1990. Infact from 1990 to 1994, he won five consecutive Filmfare awards for the best male playback singer. Easy to say, Sanu took Bollywood by storm.

Back at the show, in between songs, Kumar Sanu took time to

share stories about his experiences in Bollywood especially with legends like R D Burman, adding anecdotes and cracking jokes on stage.

Kumar Sanu’s repertoire includes many superhit songs from the recent past. To the audience’s delight, Sanu sang some of his most favourite ones including Ek Ladki Ko Dekha to, Sambhala hai maine, Dheere Dheere Se, Sochenge Tumhe pyaar kare ke nahin.

After taking a break, Sanu started taking requests from the audience. Some of the attendees actually sang duets with him. Some of them posed questions for him that he patiently answered with a dash of humor.

A special mention for the accompanying musicians travelling with Sanu, they complemented his singing in every possible way. The technical arrangements including sound and light designed by Arif Memon was perfectly tuned to match a Bollywood evening like this one.

Kumar Sanu wrapped up the show with ladki badi anjaani hai from kuch kuch hota hai. Rehan then thanked all the sponsors and supporters and drew a loud applause from the crowd when he announced that Kumar Sanu would be back in Houston on December 31, 2014.

INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2014 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

COMMUNITY

September12, 2014

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IACCGH Announces the Award Winners for 2014

From Left: IACCGH Award Winners of 2014, Pallavi Dinesh, Sonal Bhuchar, Dr. Devinder Bhatia, Judge R.K. Sandill, Gerry Morton, VP of Carrizo Oil & Gas Inc., Jayanta Sinha, President G.A.I.L Global USA

For sale

IACCGH President Sanjay Ramabhadran addressing the gathering at Mr. Peeples restaurant.

BY MANU SHAH HOUSTON: IACCGH began the countdown to its 15th Annual Gala 2014 by saluting the entrepreneurial spirit, professional accomplishments, public service endeavors and the strong philosophy of giving back displayed by members of the Chamber and the Indo American community.

One hundred and twenty five members and guests gathered at the upscale Mr. Peeples restaurant to congratulate the IACCGH 2014 award winners - Sonal Bhuchar, Pinakin and Pallavi Dinesh, Dr. Devinder Bhatia, Judge Ravi K. Sandill and GAIL and their US partners Cheniere, Carrizo and Dominion.

Our famed Southern hospitality was on full display thanks to Dr. Lucky Chopra, underwriter of the celebratory dinner. IACCGH advisors Dr. Renu Khator and Paul Hamilton, Past Presidents and members of the Board were also present.

IACCGH Founding Secretary, Jagdip Ahluwalia, who currently serves as Executive Director, walked the guests down memory lane while IACCGH President, Sanjay Ramabhadran announced the names of the award winners.

The winners thanked IACCGH for this honor and looked forward to receiving the award at the 15th Annual Gala to be held on September 27. Gala Keynote Speaker, US Senator John Cornyn will be presenting the awards to the

winners.

The winners were selected for their diverse contributions in the fields of entrepreneurship, energy, education, healthcare and public service. They are: Dr. Devinder Bhatia, a highly respected and sought after thoracic surgeon and the first Indo American to be appointed to the Texas Medical Board. He and wife Gina are well known philanthropists and give selflessly of their time and money to support many nonprofit organizations. He is known to conduct several surgeries free of charge for those in need.

Yet another first is Sonal Bhuchar who was the first Indo American to serve as Chairperson of Fort Bend ISD. A physiotherapist by profession, she has been a forceful advocate about the need for better educational opportunities and healthcare and has strived to improve the quality of life and excellence in the community. She has served with multiple nonprofits like the Sugar Land Exchange Club and Child Advocates of Fort Bend and led the formation of the Student Leadership and legislative advocacy programs in FBISD. The Entrepreneur Award of the Year goes to Pallavi and Pinakin Dinesh. A rare combination of ambition, hard work and vision, the duo, have transformed their Company, Amzer Corporation from a small organization to one with a global footprint. They manufacture, distribute and sell innovative accessories for smartphones and tablets

and are “inspired by real life” in everything they do.

Judge Ravi K. Sandill, 127th District Court judge won plaudits for his distinguished law career as well as for being elected county wide in Harris County.

He is also the first Indo American District court judge to serve in Texas. He runs a disciplined court and believes that “appearing before a jury is not the time for a lawyer to be learning his case”. It’s no wonder he cleared over 7000 cases during his first three years on the bench. He is extremely active in the Bar Association, is a graduate of Leadership Houston and currently a Fellow of the American Leadership Forum. In

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F O O R P

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COMMUNITY

Sugar Land Mayor Pro Tem Harish Jajoo Elected as President of TML Region 14

Harish Jajoo

SUGAR LAND: Sugar Land Mayor Pro Tem and City Council Member Harish Jajoo has been elected president of Texas Municipal League (TML) Region 14 for the incoming term, which includes cities and municipalities in 17 county region all the way from Houston county to Matagorda county including cities of Houston, Galveston and Sugar Land.

As regional director of TML’s Region 14, the largest region in Texas, Jajoo will promote interest in municipal government on a regional level, facilitate the exchange of information among cities in the region, and assist the TML Board of Directors in formulating policy that represents the diverse interests of the state.

TML was formed in 1913 and now serves the needs and advocates the interests of more than 1,110 cities and towns comprising the membership.

More than 18,000 mayors, councilmembers, city managers, city attorneys and city department heads are members of the League. The TML has 16 regions.

“I am excited and honored to be elected to this key role within the Texas Municipal League and will focus my energy and attention on the range of needs and future direction for the Houston, Galveston and San Jacinto area region (Region 14),” said Jajoo, who also represents Sugar Land on Transportation Policy Council (TPC) on the Houston-Galveston Area Council (HGAC).

The Transportation Policy Council (TPC) provides policy guidance and overall coordination of the transportation planning activities within the region.

Jajoo was elected to office in 2011, and currently serves as mayor pro-tem. He is vice-president of the Sugar Land Development Corporation and member of Economic Development Committee as well as on Council Task Force on Land Use. He is a member of the Exchange Club of Sugar Land and supports many charitable organization. He is a registered professional engineer in the state of Texas and certified flood plain manager.

He and his wife, Shashi have two grown children, and have lived in Sugar Land since 1985.

IACCGH CONTINUED FROM PAGE

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addition, he shines the spotlight on critical issues related to Houston in a weekly breakfast meeting.

GAIL and its partners Carrizo Oil & Gas, Inc., Cheniere Energy, Inc. and Dominion Cove Point LNG are being felicitated for their groundbreaking efforts in securing India’s energy needs and facilitating Indo US bilateral trade. Jayanta Sinha, President, GAIL Global (USA) and Gerry Morton, VP of Carrizo Oil and Gas, Inc. were present at the dinner.

IACCGH lauds the winners for their tremendous contributions that help make our world, country and city a safer and better place. The awards will be presented at the 15th Annual Gala to be held on September 27.

For sponsorship opportunities or for tickets to the 15th Annual Gala to be held on September 27, at the Hilton Americas, contact 713-624-7131 or email jagdip@iaccgh. com INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2014 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

COMMUNITY

September12, 2014

JVB’s Blood Donation Drive Sets New Guinness Book of World Record

BY SEEMA JAIN HOUSTON: “Dharma is formless. It acquires its form through the various methods of worship. Dharma is soul while the method of worship is body.” -Acharya Tulsi This beautiful quote written by Acharya Tulsi truly depicts using body as a means of worship to do Dharma. Blood is that fragile blossoming tree we all carry within us, which makes Blood Donation among the highest service one can render to humanity. On occasion of Acharya Tulsi’s Birth Centennial Celebration, JVB Preksha Meditation center on Sep. 6, embarked, a Mega Blood Donation Drive and Bone Marrow Registry in cooperation with Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center from 10 AM to 4 PM that saw many community members line up for this noble cause. The center was equipped with all technical requirements to render the process a huge success.

This campaign took place simultaneously in 700 camps in 300 cities worldwide. Total units collected worldwide were 100,000+, which created a new Guinness Book of World Record for maximum donation by an organization on a single day. More updates are available on global event website - www. abtypmbdd.com.

The campaign envisioned JVB’s pioneering role in serving the local community and

in meeting its needs. The entire effort was meant to encourage Houston Community to meet their responsibilities as good citizens and to be active participants in the activities, especially those of humanitarian and social nature.

The program received immense support from local community. About 65+ people came to donate. 44 people were able to successfully donate blood .There were approx.

20 registrations for Bone Marrow drive.

Lunch, fruits and juice was served for the entire time. We sincerely thank all the volunteers and supporters who made this drive so successful.

The JVB Preksha Meditation Center conducts regular Preksha Meditation sessions which is the practice of purifying our emotions, consciousness and realizing our own self. Mediation augurs attitudinal change, behavioral modification and integrated development of one’s personality. Started in 1970, Preksha Meditation is the result of the untiring efforts of Ganadhipati Tulsi and Acharya Mahapragya. Preksha Meditation is for everyone, irrespective of his or her race, religion, language, color, gender and belief.

For further information, please visit www.Jvbhouston.org or info@jvbhouston. org or you can reach us @ 281-596-9642.

INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2014 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

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14 September 12, 2014

COMMUNITY

Giving Thanks to God Ganesha at MTS

BY TUPIL NARASIMAN & PADMA GOLLA PEARLAND: Thanksgiving starts very early in the year for the Indian community here in the United States, as early as August sometimes; and the focus is giving thanks to the gods, starting with Lord Ganesha followed by Navarathri, Deepavali through to Sankaranthi.

Meenakshi Temple celebrated on August 29, Ganesh Chathurthi when Lord Ganesha was born. Traditionally the celebration is on the fourteenth (14th ) day after the new moon (during August-September). Lord Ganesha is celebrated with great devotion for the blessings He unconditionally bestows us. Such unconditional love for us that the Lord gives warrants a reciprocal love and a joy that manifests itself as a celebration in praise of Him. This two day celebration began around 6

pm on Friday, the August 29 starting with a Homam, a Vedic fire ritual that invokes the Lord which purifies and energizes the water in the pots (Kalasa puja). Devotees with origins from the various states of India participated in the Homam. Devotees came in continuously bringing offerings of ghee and fragrances (Homa dravyas) and decorative ornaments (Aabharanam) and flowers (Pushpams) and silk cloth (Vastrams) by which to decorate their God and also fruits (Phalam) and other sweets and savories (Prasadam) for Him. The faith that He will accept all this thanks and joyously give back in plenty is the driving force behind all these celebrations.

This year’s celebration of Ganesh Chathurthi took on a more splendorous look as it was the first time after the Ganesh Sanctum was renovated and a beautiful, allgranite mantap was built for the Lord Ganesha. By 8 pm more than 400 devotees had gathered there for the Homam, followed by

Photos: Bhargavi Golla and Srinivasan Akunuri

sacred bathing of Lord Ganesha with sanctified water (Abishekam). The Lord was decorated with silk and ornaments and flowers (Alankaram) and was taken on a procession (Utsavam) in his vehicle (Mooshika vahana). Lord Ganesha was brought back into the sanctum and to finally have a look at Him (Darshan) while the priests (Sri Manicka Bhattar and Sri Kalyana Sundara Bhattar) offered lamps to highlight His beauty (Deepa Aradhanai or Aarthi). After the Puja, the congregation enjoyed the wonderful prasadams, especially the modakams for Ganesha; a sumptuous good meal prepared by the Food coordinator Jeyam Thiagarajan and the temple staff. Thanks are also to Meena Dorairajan who had prepared Plenty of Food.

The celebrations on Saturday began around 8.30 am with 108 Kalasas, pots filled with water and sanctified by chanting and fire rituals. Devotees carried these pots of water which were used to bathe Him and

decorate Him. This time He was taken on a procession in the silver chariot (Ratham), after which a Maha aarthi was performed and prasadams distributed. After lunch, around 3.30 pm the Visarjan Puja began. This Puja, performed by Sri Pavankumar Sribhashyam included sankalpam, Ganapathi Puja & punyavachanam, Ganapathi Avahanam, puspha puja, pathra puja, ashtothra puja and story recitation followed by aarthi, mantrapuspham and Theertham. All of the devotees went in a procession to the temple pond and immersed their clay Ganesha, one at a time.

Temple provided light dinner from the cafeteria kitchen after the visarjan. The RAC committee, the Temple Priests and staff and the event organizers Tupil Narasiman, Dr. T.A. Dorairajan, Padma Golla and Murali Ravoori need to be applauded for all the arrangements. The Ganesh Chaturthi celebration was a highly satisfying experience for one and all.

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15

ISKCON of Houston’s Radhastami

BY CHAITANYA CHARITAMRITA DAS HOUSTON: Tuesday September 2, harsh traffic and construction noise bellow out of the Houston freeways with frenzied commuters and truckers… just another day in paradise; later in the early evening reality reveals a place most wonderful.

At the Hare Krishna Dham on 34th Street I am entering into another realm of Houston, a transcendental one, a secret and secure oasis for all. Miraculously the blaring of truck and car horns have become soothing emanations from the sound of a conch-shell, the street lights and signals now sparkle as reflections from the sequins and ornaments upon a magnificent Altar.

How has this happened? It is none other than Sri Sri Radha’s blessings in action. This is a celebration of Radhastami at ISKCON of Houston, plus a grand opening for a new school, GOSWAMI ACADEMY / GOKUL KIDZ Kindergarten-4 and Pre-school, making this now a double special-event day!

Since it is Srimati Radharani’s appearance day, many have called upon Her to celebrate Her glories, She humbly abides, but for Her, all Glories go to a partner on Her right, Her beloved Sri Sri Nila-Madhava. Radha has modestly lifted her long radiant skirt and gracefully reveals Her beautiful lotus-like feet, bringing feelings of bliss and ecstasy to all who view.

Appropriately, the evening’s guest speaker was Subhra M. Lind, the Temple’s new school principal. Sharing the pastimes of dear Radharani is not an ordinary thing, great discretion is needed. Lind enunci-

ated the story of the “Tormented Jackal” which seemed best for the guests, for this “Jackal” is part of all of us. Summarizing, a lone Jackal wanders into the local village and is being harassed by children and naïve citizens to the extreme anguish. Retreating to a burrow, a fire is placed at the entrance and the Jackal is piteously whelping. Radha hears of the animal’s plight comes to the Jackals aid, embarrassing and humbling the obsessive villagers. The symbolism of this burning material world, badgering entities and our “Jackal” like minds are imbued in this tale and it is only the mercy of God and His associates we can escape.

Bringing such storied pastimes is also part of the GOSWAMI ACADEMY agenda. The school motto; “Education for Perfection” is reviving essential Spiritual knowledge and

Sri Sri Radha Nilamadhava on Radhastam Photos: Nagalla Nagaraj

Abhishek of Sri Sri Radha Nilamadhava

practical application in modern academia using an inquiry based curriculum within the foundations of our existence. There are also other goals in Spiritual and character development, life enhancing creative arts and advancement of consciousness and technology.

His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami brought these important Vedic celebrations to us from the East and was also emphatic about our children’s education.

The schools started in Texas in the 70’s are now primers for GOSWAMI ACADEMY. His grace Maharaja Tamal Krishna Goswami also confirmed this and asked his disciples in Houston to begin schools. It is in their honor all have dedicated to continue this most important heritage.

The analogy of a “learning tree” comes to mind and from the 150 plus years of Vedic education in America, there have been many branches, some twisted, some fruitless, regardless the roots of Goswami Academy are

strong and deep into the Vedic Sampradaya (Disciplic School System). The trunk of devotion and limbs of wisdom are sound, the remaining branches are being carefully pruned. There is no doubt that these schools are succeeding in transplanting the universal Vedic knowledge to the West, and fulfill the World’s thirst for moral sustenance and hunger of technological understanding. The children themselves will confidentially say “I was there”, and the future of humanity, sentient beings, environment and the Earth itself will be much brighter.

Concluding this magnificent day with all the excitement, grandeur and school commemorations a sumptuous feast was served, people dined and smiled continuously and many were taking birthday cake home for another taste of Radharani’s bliss on the following day… fortunately I managed to taste some too.

For details, contact 713 714 2250 or visit www.goswamiacademy.org

INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2014 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

16 September 12, 2014 CONTINUED FROM PAGE

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er literacy classes for Bhutanese refugees; free yoga workshops to help control Type 2 diabetes among Indians; family workshops and a volunteer appreciation dinner in May. In the audience, Madhulika Tewary, a Director at Nexion Healthcare, said she was impressed with these programs and hoped to volunteer in the Stop Diabetes Program.

SI also raised funds to meet its year-end goal of $150,000, most of which was expected to come at the Gala itself. Pledge cards on the tables allowed many people to make donations throughout the evening, a tally of which was announced by the emcees.

Sarojini’s husband, Subhash Gupta who heads the local chapter of Ekal Vidyalaya

COMMUNITY Local Artistes Help Focus Support on Sewa, Internationally and at Home

and is President of the Hindu Svyam Sangh noted that he shares the same office as Sewa and has been an ardent supporter. He lauded the group for its dedicated volunteers, four of whom are Americorps fellows with graduate degrees from prestigious US universities but have committed to SI for a year.

Outgoing Hindus of Greater Houston President Sharad Amin thanked the audience for committing support to SI. “I may not remember what I ate last week or a month ago,” he said, “but I will always remember those who helped me in my time of need.” And, pediatrician and philanthropist

Dr. Sanghmitra Misra urged the audience to support SI generously.

Indian Consul General Parvathaneni Harish was the chief guest of the event starting off with a Sanskrit verse referring to the role of service, adding his insights into what it meant to be called to serve. He related it to the role of government officials like himself as public servants and the challenge thrown out by newly elected Indian Prime Minister for everyone to get out of their comfort zones. “In the private sector there are NGOs like Sewa whose impres-

sive work inspires youngsters to serve,” he said, urging “anyone who has an opportunity to contribute in the society in which we live” to get involved.

The evening began with a social hour in the lobby outside the auditorium where vegetarian appetizers were offered, and the capacity crowd spilled over into the covered courtyard which is one of the main attractive features of the Haveli. The food was prepared at the VPSS’s large adjoining kitchen and dinner was served buffet-style after the entertainment program.

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COMMUNITY

September 12, 2014

17

The 2014 MetLife South Asian Spelling Bee Champion Announced 13-year Old Gokul Venkatachalam From Chesterfield, MO, Clinches the Title

From left: Rahul Walia, Founder of the South Asian Spelling Bee; Hayley Freundlich, Director, Diverse Markets and Marketing Support, MetLife; 2014 MetLife South Asian Spelling Bee National Champion Gokul Venkatachalam of Chesterfield, MO with with MetLife brand icon Snoopy and Candy Chan, Sr. Marketing Consultant, Diverse Markets, MetLife.

NEW JERSEY: Gokul Venkatachalam correctly spelled the word ‘becquerel’ during the 2014 MetLife South Asian Spelling Bee Finals to clinch the title of National Champion. During the event on August 15, which was taped live for broadcast on Sony Entertainment Television, Gokul along with 23 other finalists competed for the title. Vanya Shivashankar from Olathe, KS, and Ananya Kodali from Highland Village, TX, were National Runners-Up. Twenty-four top spellers from the 12 regional centers gathered at the Rutgers College auditorium to battle it out for the title of champion and a $10,000 Grand Prize from MetLife.

The event was organized by leading South Asian advertising firm, Touchdown Media Inc. and sponsored by MetLife, one of the largest life insurance companies in the world. Sony

Entertainment Television is the exclusive rights holder and will broadcast the event across the globe in over 119 countries.

Food major Kawan Food and education company C2Education were on board as associate sponsors for this event.

“An elite group of 24 spellers from across the country gathered here tonight and the contest was tough! The best finally prevailed, so heartiest congratulations to Gokul and all the spellers”, says Rahul Walia, CEO, Touchdown Media Inc. and Founder of the South Asian Spelling Bee. He also adds “This is a great platform that helps children showcase their talent, hone their skill and inculcate a sense of discipline and discipline that will help in their overall development. I urge parents to take advantage of this

unique contest next year.”

The special guest at the Finals was Sriram Hathwar, 2013 South Asian Spelling Bee National Champion and 2014 Scripps National Co-champion, who helped co-host a portion of the event.

The champion received a $10,000 grand prize from MetLife along with the South Asian Spelling Bee trophy.

“MetLife congratulates all the winners on a job well done, especially Gokul Venkatachalam, our new national champion,” says Laurel Daring, assistant vice president, Diverse Markets, MetLife. “We want to thank all the students and families who participated in the Bee, which remains an important part of our commitment to the South Asian market, and we look forward to another great year in 2015.”

The event was open to children up to 14 years of age and was held in 12 regional centers across the United States. These areas included, New Jersey, DC Metro area, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, Seattle, New York, Boston, Los Angeles, Bay Area and the newly added - Orlando.

The contest was conducted in written and oral format at the regional levels which served as the elimination as well as selection process for the finalists.

“In the 7th year of our association as founding sponsors of the South Asian Spelling Bee, we are witnessing steep growth in amazing new talent year after year and look forward to Sony Entertainment Television, Asia’s continued support of this brilliant initiative”, says Jaideep Janakiram, SVP International Business- Head of North America for Sony Entertainment Network”.

Says Timothy Tan, Director, International

Business, Kawan Food, “I’m so happy to have been able to watch the finale of The MetLife South Asian Spelling Bee. Its great to see how integrated and involved the entire family gets in preparing to be a part of the Bee. Kawan is a proud sponsor and we are looking forward to being involved at a deeper level to connect with families across the US.’” “C2 Education would like to congratulate all of the 2014 South Asian Spelling Bee contestants that participated in this wonderful program. C2 Education is very proud to be a supporter and associated with the South Asian Spelling Bee over the past three years”, says Steven Helgeson, National Sales Director, C2 Education.

After registering their child online at www. southasianspellingbee.com, parents brought them to the designated center and a 25-word written test was administered. Children had to spell 15 or more words correctly to qualify for the afternoon oral round and from there the top three were awarded prize money and the top two qualified for the Finals.

From each of these centers, the finalists along with a parent were invited on an all-expensepaid trip to the finals in New Jersey. Overall about 700 children registered to spell amongst all the centers.

The contest will be conducted annually in the June and July months and the 2015 schedule will be announced in October this year.

For further information and to keep abreast with the upcoming events, log onto www. southasianspellingbee.com.

Facebook: South Asian Spelling Bee and Twitter: Spell South Asian.

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18 September 12, 2014 Turn on Innovation & Investment Yet again, the summer of 2014 saw India reeling from the energy crises as temperatures hit a record high in six decades. According to a 2014 World Bank study, India’s energy sector problems keep 300 million without power. Paralysed infrastructure, burgeoning consumption characterised by demand outstripping supply exponentially and non-performing policies have resulted in an undesirable cocktail of repeated energy crunches.

Tracing the roots, a practice of ill-targeted producer and consumer subsidies has been combined with policies designed to obstruct import substitution and protect the domestic manufacturing sector (which according to the World Bank, has accumulated debt to the staggering tune of Rs. 3.5 lakh crore or $77 billion – 5% of the country’s GDP—in 2011). As a result, India finds itself dangling halfway uncomfortably on its route to a liberalised and well-functioning energy landscape. To cross this chasm, India will need to overcome two fundamental challenges. Domestically, energy theft and the failure to ensure revenue collection along the supply chain threaten the effectiveness of local players.

Second, India needs to be cognisant of the geopolitical risks associated with its increasing import dependencies and, contrary to an isolationist approach, realise the country’s interconnectedness with global price trends.

India’s energy sector will need to take the following tactical steps to enforce comprehensive reforms and enhance competitiveness.

First, the managerial autonomy of energy companies needs to be reformed. Public or private, central or state, the steering hands of the energy sector participants should be allowed to leverage financial resources and work towards heightening competitiveness by reacting to global market dynamics independent of political bureaucracy or promoter company shackles.

Second, the energy industry will need to invite meaningful investment to ramp up supply in tune with demand requirements.

Management teams’ ability to execute projects in a timely and efficient manner will be essential to compete for and lure sticky international investors.

India would do well to take a leaf out of China’s energy play book. As China’s energy demands exploded underpinned by a magnification of the manufacturing sector, the country strategically set about acquiring assets in Angola and Kazakhstan. Today, China’s resources encompass Central Asia, Russia and Latin America, ensuring consistency in supplies and minimised disruptions to meet growing economy demands.

A carefully designed combination of innovation, investment across the energy platform (new renewable and traditional nonrenewables), and cooperation between an agile private sector and efficient public sector will create the foundation for an energy universe that India needs to meet its needs for today and aspirations for tomorrow.

Samia Shamim in Hindustan Times. She is an investor based in New York and a Harvard Business School alumnus.

EDITORIAL/COMMENTARY Where is India’s Black Money?

The scent of ‘black money’ is in the air again. At the Supreme Court’s order, Modi sarkar has set up a Special Investigation Team to look into cases of illegal outflow of money to foreign havens.

Astronomical figures of treasure hoards hidden abroad have been bandied around, especially in the recent elections. To understand what black money is and how it can be recovered, Subodh Varma spoke to India’s preeminent expert on the black economy, Prof Arun Kumar of Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi.

How do you define ‘black money’?

Actually , ‘black money’ is a tiny component of the huge ‘black economy’. All unreported incomes whether by legal or illegal means, and their subsequent use in consumption or investment forms the ‘black economy’.

The part of this economy which is available as ‘money’ is called black money . Often black money is taken to mean money generated through illegal activities like bribery. That’s just one part of black money. If a private tutor or a doctor earns some income, that’s not illegal. But when it is not included in his income returns it becomes `black’. At the societal level, this is a system, it’s institutionalized.A sugar mill owner will under weigh the sugar cane, the juice and the crystalline sugar, and also bribe excise officials to report less production. So he gets extra unreported income at every stage of production and distribution.

What is the measure of this ‘black economy’ in India and how much of it is stashed away in foreign tax havens?

My estimate is that more than 50% of India’s economy is black. About half of this is consumption while the remaining half is savings.

Of these savings, about 20% is taken out of the country . That means, of the total black economy , about 10% is in foreign banks. Some is consumed there (yachts, houses, vacations) and some is routed back to India through various means including hawala, or through the Mauritius route. If all the money that has been illegally taken out were to be invested back in India, the gain would be equivalent to $2 trillion (about Rs 120 lakh crore). This

“My estimate is that more than 50% of India’s economy is black. About half of this is consumption while the remaining half is savings.

Of these savings, about 20% is taken out of the country. If all the money that has been illegally taken out were to be invested back in India, the gain would be equivalent to $2 trillion” Professor Arun Kumar Jawahar Lal Nehru University is not the amount of money stashed abroad — it is the opportunity cost of that.

How can the foreign-based black money be retrieved?

First of all, I think going after just the foreign component of black money is a diversion. The bulk of the money is right here in the country! It is very difficult to get money out of foreign tax havens unless someone has been really stupid. Let me clarify that all Indians with foreign accounts are not criminals. If it is untaxed, unreported income then it needs to be tracked and brought to book. No amount of agreements to avoid double taxation or infor mation sharing will yield information on real account holders.

There are devious means by which money is transferred through several layers of shell companies. If you ask a Swiss bank, they might tell you the ‘names’ they have but these are not the real people. It will require a great

deal of meticulous work here to get the right persons. This is what the US did in the case of its citizens who had stashed money in UBS. They prepared a case in US and presented it to the Swiss. That’s what India should do.

The only other way is to wait for somebody to steal the data as happened in the case of LGT — the Lichtenstein based trust.

The present government seems to be very active in pursuing black money. Will this yield results?

Since 1948, about 40 committees, commissions, etc have looked at the problem from different angles. There have been raids, there have been amnesty schemes. The result is zero.

My feeling is that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) set up by the government under Supreme Court pressure will be of limited use.

It is going to look at existing cases and go by what is offered to it - nothing more. The problem is that there is a triad of vested interests that runs everything in the country -business, politicians and the executive arm of the government. The Radia tapes have shown a glimpse of this nexus.

This triad is the main beneficiary of the black economy . So, there has never been a political will to tackle the black economy in the past, and I doubt that the present government has it. Otherwise, Modi can order a crackdown on all hawala operators and all other routes of illegal money flows. Only pressure from people’s movements will force the government to crack down on the black economy .

Would the black economy cool down if taxes were lowered?

This is like saying that if the red light was not there you would not be charged with jumping it! Remember, India has one of the lowest direct tax to GDP ratios in the whole world.

Chidambaram used to say that our tax-GDP ratio has improved. But that’s because of the enormous increase in corporate profits. Calculations show that just the top 0.1% of the population earns more than the bottom 55%. This is because of deregulation and concessions in taxes.

Yet the black economy is flourishing. ToI

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COMMUNITY

September 12, 2014

Music Party at Upmaben’s Home

From left: Renuka and Rohini – granddaughters, Soumya Rege – mother, Aarti Mishra - grandmother, and Upma Shah.

BY DEEPAK BHATT SUGAR LAND: It was once again a music and food bonanza at the home of Upmaben and Mukuleshbhai on August 31. They have been hosting home concerts (Bethaks) regularly and the most exciting part is that they are FREE. But more importantly, the quality of the programs is always high and the bar is being raised higher and higher. Each program is different by promoting a new theme and giving everyone something to look forward to. This is the venue where a platform is provided to inspiring young artists as well as veterans to show off their talents to a very appreciative, disciplined audience. Their home has become Sangeet Bhavan or Saraswati Sadan where art is worshipped, artists are respected very highly and audience is very disciplined to provide perfect ambience.

This Bethak was very unique because three generations of artists were presenting their compositions in their own styles as well as in unison.

The program started with Ganesh Vandana by four artists of three generations (Aarti Mishra - grandmother, Soumya Rege – mother, Renuka and Rohini – granddaughters) together.

After that Aarti Mishra sang classical ragas and on a subject of Koyaliya she presented three ragas. The audience showed its deep appreciation with loud applause. It was followed by Odissi folk songs and some more music. She rendered her compositions in her melodious voice for more than one hour with lots of energy and gusto. Soumya also sang classical ragas and it appeared that she was proving that she is as good as her mother and mentor. Emcee Ajay Rege was very knowledgeable in explaining the details of each of the Ragas. It was an amazing experience. They earned a standing ovation from the audience which they definitely deserved.

The second half was something different. Rohini presented fusion of eastern and western music. She presented two English and one Hindi

songs and explained the differences and technicalities of them. It was very evident where her musical genes came from and made everyone very proud of her accomplishments at such a young age. Now was the time for Oldie Goldie. The audience was thrilled by 11 selected songs sung by Soumya from films like: Mughale Azam, Mere Mehaboob, Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam, Kala Pani, and many more. But the most interesting part was that Dr. Aziz Warsi provided narration for each song in advance and made it more meaningful by quoting something special that happened while filming it. Prenaben Shah sang one Mahavir bhajan. Surendra Talwar sang one devotional song and one patriotic song .

As usual no program can be without the dynamic duo of the father-son team of Jayendrabhai and Ambarish Prabhukot. They provided a lifeline to the program by playing Tabla and Harmonium/keyboard respectively.

The most exciting part was when they were playing KAIDAS (i.e. tabla compositions), the audience was reaping its Faidas (Hindi/Gujarati word for benefit or delight). The rules of playing a Kaida are complex, but in short, one must use only the BOLS that are in the original theme, follow the rules of TALA, and maintain the BHARI-KHALI structure.

The complete synchronization of Bol on harmonium and Tal on table was like a high speed chase between father and son. It was a great treat for the audience.

The food bonanza was from the beginning up to the end with many items. It was delicious.

Overall it was a very enjoyable afternoon and evening. It seemed like the audience did not want the program to end. I believe there were some couples who had no intention of going home and they wanted to stay around even after the program was finished. God bless them.

“IT HAPPENS ONLY IN INDIA”

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20 September 12, 2014

COMMUNITY

Annual Paryushan Mahaparva at JVB Preksha Meditation Center

BY SEEMA JAIN HOUSTON: JVB Preksha Meditation Center hosted its Annual Paryushan festival at its premises under the auspicious guidance of Samani Sanmati Pragyaji and Samani Jayant Pragyaji (Disciples of Acharya Shri Mahashraman). The 8-day long festivities began on August 22 to 29.

The real purpose of the Paryushan is to purify our soul by staying closer to our own soul, to look at our faults, to ask for forgiveness for the mistakes we have committed during the past year.

This year Tapasya chains started one month prior the Paryushan parva with atthai tap (8 continuous days fasting). The dedicated members of JVB Ila Patel, Meena Kapasi and Tushar Jain kept the tapasya chain going till the beginning of Paryushan Festival. During these eight days, the entire JVB Community became spellbound in an atmosphere of enthusiasm, felicity and Tapasya

with Tela (3 continuous days fasting), Bela (2 continuous days fasting) and one day fasting. Young Gyanshala kids ages 4-14 yrs. amazed everyone by doing Ekasan (eating one time during the whole day),Biyasana (eating only twice a day), Upwaas (fasting), Bela (2 days continuous fasting) and Maun ( observing Silence).

Each day started with Saminiji’s morning session of Agam discourses based on Uttaradyan Sutra and concluded with evening sessions which were beautifully presented on purification of inner soul and Karma as well as multiple significance of the festival.

Seven days were days of attainment and the eighth day was one of fulfillment or achievement. By performing the Samvatsarik Pratikraman on eight day, everyone sought forgiveness from each other; forgetting all hatred constitutes the Samvatsarik aradhana -the annual atonement. Special food arrangements were made for dinner for devotees followed by Pratikaramn, daily. Parallel Sessions for kids

Pratikaramn were also conducted at Evening in English.

This year, JVB concluded the Paryushan Mahaparva with magnificent celebration of Tap Anumodhna to honor all the Tapasvees on Sunday, Aug 31. About 125+ people were part of this special program. A short and entertaining drama “Saat Din ka Saar” was played by Gyanshala parents to highlight the significance of Seven days before the final day of Paryushan. All the Tapasvees, young and old were honored and rewarded.

Many of them were generous enough to give us their valuable feedback.

Few of statements are being mentioned here: “The whole arrangement of dinner, Pratikraman and Samani jee choice of topics and her flawless delivery were most impressive. I enjoyed the whole proceedings and have made up my mind that I will make as many visits I can.” (Jagan Lodha , Woodlands).

“One of strong messages was that if we sow a seed of karma, we should ask if it is taking us in the right direction and bearing the right fruits.”

(Sunita Jain, Missouri City) JVB Preksha Meditation Center is home to a specially designed Preksha Dhyan ‘Pyramid’ Meditation Hall and is located at 14102 Schiller Rd, Houston, TX 77082. Upcoming events include For further information, visit www.Jvbhouston.org or info@jvbhouston.org or you can reach us @ 281-596-9642.

Historical Battle of Saragarhi a Pride of Sikh Martyrs

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Saragarhi is an incredible story of 21 brave men of the 36th Sikh Regiment, were born in Majha region of Punjab and gave up their lives in devotion to their duty on September 12, 1897. In keeping with the tradition of the Indian Army, they fought to

death rather than surrender. The Battle at Saragarhi is one of eight stories of collective bravery published by UNESCO, and mentioned as one of the five most significant events of its kind in the world which includes the Saga of Thermoplyae associated with the heroic stand of a small Greek force against the mighty Persian Army of

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Xerxes in 480 B.C. Most of the forts in this region were initially built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh and later on the British colonial rulers added more to provide security to troops against marauding tribesmen and their Lashkar’s.

Saragarhi Post was located between Lockhart and Gulistan to provide heliographic communications between them. This picket had been fortified to provide safety and protection to the signalling detachment. In 1897 there was a general uprising in the NWFP engineered by Afghans as part of their policy, which came to be known as the “prickly heat policy’ to direct the wrath of the tribal against the British.

On September 12, 1897, about 10,000 tribesmen laid siege to Fort Lockhart and Saragarhi, The Commanding Officer of 36th Sikh Regiment, Lt. Col. Haughton, was at Fort Lockhart and was in communication with the Saragarhi post through helicograph. The defenders of Saragarhi under the indomitable and inspiring leadership of their detachment commander, Havildar Ishar Singh, resolved to defend their post in the best tradition of their race and regiment. He and his men knew well that the post would fall, because a hand-

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CONTINUED ON PG 21

COMMUNITY

September 12, 2014

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10th Anniversary Ramleela 2014 at VPSS Haveli on Sep 27

HOUSTON: Indo-Americans in Houston will welcome fall 2014 with an exciting presentation of dance drama Ramleela 2014 amid Dussehra and Deepawali (also called Diwali) celebrations. Kalakriti Performing Arts in conjunction with Kusum Sharma’s Shri Natraj School of Dance will stage this show this year at VPSS Haveli Hall. A departure from last few years when it was done at University of Houston.

VPSS location offers free and ample parking and closer to many revelers

staying at Sugarland and Southwest Houston.

Ramleela is a dramatic folk reenactment of the life of Lord Ram, ending up in ten-day battle between Lord Ram and Ravan, as described in the Hindu religious epic, the Ramayana.

This year Ramleela 2014 stage show in Houston will be held on Saturday , September 27, from 4 PM to 6:30 PM at VPSS Haveli located at 11715 Bellfort Village Drive, Houston TX. With new loca-

tion, new opportunities has presented which is being used to further raise the bar for Ramleela this year with brand new episodes and spectacular effects. In every scene and elements included story, acting and dances, colossal pre-production efforts, props and costume preparation and several months of rehearsal has gone into to make Ram Leela 2014 even more spectacular. Kusum Sharma is the creative mind behind the Ram Leela production since 2005 which gradually evolved into a Broadway-style theatrical play when it was staged in 2010. An overwhelming response from the community encouraged Kusum Sharma to invest the show with several special effects such as the “Flying Hanuman” into the production which has been very popular with children. Ramleela in Houston over the last few years have appealed to young and old alike.

Tickets start at very reasonable $10 and group discount is available for order of 10+ tickets. More details, video from previous years and tickets can be purchased at www.ramleelahouston.org.

Kalakriti Performing Arts expresses their heartiest appreciation to all the supporters, volunteers, performers and sponsor who has supported the Ramleela event in past years.

For further information , sponsorship and volunteering contact Kusum Sharma at info@kalakritiusa.org or www.kalakritiusa.org

Historical Battle of Saragarhi a Pride of Sikh Martyrs CONTINUED FROM PG 20 ful of men in that make-shift fort of stones and mud walls with a wooden door could not stand the onslaught of thousands of tribesmen.

They fought back valiantly. For quite some time, the troops held their own against the determined and repeated attacks by the wild and ferocious hordes. The enemy suffered heavy casualties during this fight. Unmindful of his safety, Sepoy Gurmukh Singh kept signalling a minute-to-minute account of the battle from the signal tower in the post to Battalion HQs. When repeated attacks failed, the enemy set fire to the surrounding areas and managed to close in with the post’s boundary wall and rifle fire from the post holes and were succeeded to breach in the wall. One of the Havildar Singh’s men was seriously wounded and was profusely bleeding, took charge of the guardroom. He shot four of the enemy as they tried to approach his charge. The battle had come too close for Gurmukh Singh’s comfort, so he asked Battalion HQs for permission to shut down the heliograph and take up his rifle. He dismounted his heliograph equipment, and joined the fight. He took 20 of the enemy with him before he died.

This episode when narrated in the British Parliament drew from the members a standing ovation in the

memory of the defenders. The story of the heroic deeds of these men was also placed before Queen Victoria.

The account was received all over the world with full admiration. All the 21 valiant men of this epic battle were awarded the Indian Order of Merit Class III (posthumously) which at the time was one of the highest gallantry awards (Vir Chakra) given to Indian troops. All dependants of the heroes were awarded land and money. It is indeed a singularly unique action in Indian military history.

The Sikh Regiment celebrates the day of the Battle of Saragarhi each 12 September in their honor. Two Saragarhi Gurudwaras: one in Amritsar and one in Ferozepur Cantonment were built. The British and Indian armies’ polo teams commemorated the battle in 2010, by holding the Saragarhi Challenge and raising thousands of pounds for the British Asian Trust. Let us pay tribute to these brave men on September 12 for their sacrifice and proud to be Indian.

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Mama’s Punjabi Recipes Pethe Di Sabzi (Sauteed Pumpkin) Although the biggest use of petha (pumpkin) in India is to make the white, crystallized delicacy made famous in Agra, in North India we also make not only the sweet petha da halwa but a regular, salted, spicy dish that all love to eat with roti and paranthas. In the US, during the Halloween season when pumpkins are so widely available, it is a good opportunity to make a dish other than the traditional pumpkin pie.

In North India, the yellow-orange petha of the plains is also known as kanshi phal, kashi or Sita phal in Hindi and it is often made during the harvest season in many homes as an change to the usual mix of vegetables which are eaten throughout the year.

This dish is usually prepared without onions as petha is considered a pure and holy vegetable that can be eaten by people who are fasting. In the preparation of the dish it is important to dry up most of the water that is released during the cooking process.

The byproduct of cooking with petha are the large white seeds that can be collected, washed and dried in the sun to eat later, either roasted or raw. One can also collect watermelon seeds or cantaloupe seeds and do the same and save the cost of buying these at high prices from the stores.

But now, even in India, people will buy them from stores rather than do it themselves at home as my mother used to do.

Ingredients: • 1 kg petha (pumpkin) • 1 tsp methi dana (fenugreek seed) • 2 tbsp olive oil or makhan (butter) • Spices: lal mirch (red pepper); namak (salt); haldi (turmeric) – to your taste

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Directions: 1. Peel the petha, chop into small pieces, wash them in a strainer and let them drip dry.

2. Heat the oil in a saucepan, add the methi dana and spices then add the chopped petha. Stir well to coat and turn the heat down to medium.

Cover and let the petha cook in its own steam till it is soft.

3. Check to see if it is soft. Let it cook for 5 more minutes, then mash well with a large spoon or spatula and keep stirring till the water evaporates, making sure that it does not stick to the bottom.

4. When all the water is gone, the oil will come towards the edges of

Shakuntla Malhotra is a skilled cook of Punjabi dishes made in the old-fashioned style that she learnt as a young woman in her ancestral home in Lyallpur, India before it became part of Pakistan after the Partition in 1947. People have often admired her cooking for its simplicity and taste that comes with each mouthful. Even in her mid-eighties, she continues to cook daily and agreed to share some of her delectable Punjabi recipes.

MAMA’STIPOFTHEWEEK KEEP BANANAS FRESH AND YELLOW IN THE FRIDGE

Everyone loves bananas in this country where they are available all year long, especially the long, plump Cavendish variety which are a common sight in most grocery stores. Bananas are a very high in potassium and a quick source of glucose for those whose blood sugar levels have fallen too low. Most people buy a bunch of bananas and leave them in a basket or hang them on a hook outside, often for looks, and then see them become dark and bruised in a few days.

We should take a tip from the way the grocery stores keep the bananas fresh looking even after they are shipped in by truck. They keep them in a plastic bag and in the cooler and this will work at home too.

When you bring the bananas home, place them in a clear plastic back, close the top and put them in the refrigerator. The bananas will stay yellow and unbruised much longer: at most they may become darker.

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the saucepan and then turn the heat off. Let it cool down before eating.

This dish is not usually prepared with many spices.

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ENTERTAINMENT

September 12, 2014

Movie Review: Mary Kom

BY ANUPAMA CHOPRA

Mary Kom is the loosely fictionalised account of India’s most famous female boxer. In a crisp two hours, the film tells us how the belligerent daughter of a rice farmer in Manipur became a five-time world champion. It’s a story of grit, passion and, as Mary’s coach says, “hamesha whole surrender to boxing”. What powers the film is a remarkable performance by Priyanka Chopra.

There’s been a lot of chatter about debutant director Omung Kumar’s decision to cast a glamorous Bollywood star who looks nothing like the actual Mary. This could have gone horribly wrong, but Priyanka meets the challenge head-on. Her shoulders and arms are sculpted to look lethal. Her face is a fierce combination of rage and vulnerability.

In one scene, the selectors unfairly reward her opponent and Mary throws a chair at them.

You can feel her frustration and hurt.

Omung also wisely surrounds Priyanka with largely unknown actors who contribute immensely in creating a convincing texture.

Darshan Kumar as Mary’s husband Onler, Robin Das as her father and Sunil Thapa as her coach are very good. Though the film wasn’t actually shot in Manipur, Omung creates a believable world.

Where Mary Kom falters is in the screenplay. Biopics by design are about the highlights of a person’s life and, here, the narra-

tive succumbs to ticking off milestones. Omung tries to give it variety by incorporating a flashback structure, but that doesn’t add much. We go abruptly from one pivotal moment to another — it’s a dramatic story, but the first half especially is inexplicably inert. The character is fascinating and yet her story doesn’t grip you.

Thankfully, the momentum picks up in the second half, once Mary gets married and has children.

But Omung and his writer, Saiwyn Quadras, also try to highlight too many issues — women’s empowerment, the shoddy treatment of athletes by government bodies, how ignorant most Indians are about the north-east, the difficulty women have in balancing personal and professional lives and, of course, the call to patriotism that runs through the film.

In the climax, Omung opts for high-strung melodrama and we are even asked to stand as the national anthem plays. I found it annoying. The emotion that compels viewers to stand has to be earned. You can’t just tell us to do it.

Despite its flaws, though, Mary Kom is a worthy attempt. The film has sincerity and has been crafted with care.

Apart from Mary herself, it gives us a terrific male role model — Onler, who encouraged Mary to return to boxing while he looked after their twin sons. Has anyone given that man a medal?

Last week’s edition can be found online. Issue dated June 27,2014.

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23

24 September 12, 2014 “I Got More than I Expected”—Team Director Shastri

SPORTS Afridi Backs Misbah

ESPNcricinfo spoke to Ravi Shastri, India’s new team director, after the conclusion of the tour of England, where MS Dhoni’s team lost the Tests, won the ODIs and then lost the only Twenty20 international

BY NAGRAJ GOLLAPUDI personality is such if I ESPNcricinfo spoke feel like saying someto Ravi Shastri, India’s thing I don’t hold back. new team director, after I don’t care who it is. the conclusion of the What are your obsertour of England, where vations about Fletcher, MS Dhoni’s team lost having worked with the Tests, won the ODIs him for the first time? and then lost the only He is tremendous. He Twenty20 international would have done over Did you achieve the a 100 Tests as coach, targets you had in mind which is massive. He is when you started the technically very sound. role?

He is a solid character.

Absolutely. I got more He is respected. He is a than I would have exfatherly figure. I knew pected. I say that only Fletcher from the 1983 because of England’s reWorld Cup. Then in cord at home, not many 1984 I led an India Unsides have thrashed them der-25 side to Zimba3-0 in a four-ODI series. bwe, where he was my It is a big achievement: counterpart. So I was from what they were aware of his leadership mentally after the Test qualities already. Also series defeat, and then to what made Fletcher’s respond in that fashion job easier was having made me feel proud. the trio of Sanjay BanThe players, includgar, Bharat Arun and R ing MS Dhoni, said your Sridhar as his assistant aura and positive outcoaches. look were the stand-out How did the team refactors. How did you receive the three coaches Ravi Shastri on Duncan Fletcher: “He is tremendous lax the dressing room? who were brought in ... He is technically very sound. He is a solid character.

Those factors defined He is respected. He is a fatherly figure.” suddenly to replace the me as a cricketer. I had well-established pair to make it a place where of Joe Dawes (bowling the boys wanted to enjoy them- case with Shikhar [Dhawan]. coach) and Trevor Penney (fieldShikhar batted magnificently ing coach)? selves. I was very clear when I said I am doing this job because - you would have seen the difThe three coaches have been brilI believe in them. And that was ference in him in the last three liant. Have you seen fielding like enough. As I got talking to them matches. He was technically and that in the Twenty20 at Edgbasone on one, things started falling overall more fluent and confident. ton from India? We lost by three Mentally they were down after runs, but if we had not fielded the in place.

One of the guys you focused on the Test series, but my job was to way we did, they would have gone make them free. The good thing over 200 runs. That was the bigwas Virat Kohli. Why? About Virat, you knew it was due about this entire team was the gest positive - the Indians were (the half-century in the Edgbaston willingness to listen and learn. No like tigers on the field. You field Twenty20). The reason he did not one works harder than these boys - well and that is half the battle in perform earlier was a combination they push themselves to the limit. limited-overs cricket.

How did you draw the line beof mental and technical issues. You How did you work with Dhoni? cannot get out to the same bowler tween where your job ends and When I first worked as a consulin the same fashion five to six Duncan Fletcher’s begins? tant with the Indian team during Fletcher is the coach: he looks the 2007 Bangladesh tour, Dhoni times. So there is an issue. He has to accept there is something wrong after the handling of various things was a key player already. Hence otherwise you cannot get out. And including little, little stuff. My ex- both of us know each other well. that had to be addressed, which we perience comes into play from the Our job was to make his life easier did. There are certain issues Virat outside - of having been there, after the Test series. Our job was to understands he needs to work on, done that. The fact that I watch so take the pressure off him. Our job which he has been doing. Similar much is a massive help. And my was to communicate more with the

players, make them at ease, and give them the confidence.

Dhoni said it a “good” tour overall for India. Do you agree?

He is not far from the truth. One of the things I had told the boys was, the reason I am here is you have shown me two things on this tour: first was India’s greatest ever Test win, at Lord’s during the second Test. I mean it. It was phenomenal. I also told them in the final three Tests you played spineless cricket. So for me a good team cannot be a bad team in two weeks. It cannot. It is a learning curve. Then to beat England in the ODI series the way India did was very good.

And don’t forget, this is only the second time India have won a bilateral ODI series in England.

In ODI cricket, bowling remains a weak area for India …

Death bowling, big time we need to improve on. It is a key area. For Dhoni to fall back on a spinner to bowl in the death overs becomes very risky. It is not yet a concern, but bowlers need to be aware about where to bowl and what to try in such a situation.

Dhoni has pointed out consistently that India lack an allrounder in Tests. If you were a selector how would you solve this issue?

Someone like [Ravindra] Jadeja has to be backed and encouraged and told you can get runs on a regular basis. And I feel he is good in all three formats.

About your future, strong voices within the BCCI want you performing the role for the World Cup. Are you happy to take it?

One step at a time. I was doing commentary during the Oval Test.

This is my first, proper off day. I got a call immediately after the Oval Test asking me take over.

Then your whole mind goes into a tailspin because you are supposed to suddenly do something different and massive. My job was to be with the team for the ODI series.

They have won it. I want to let that sink. I will return to India and then think about the future.

Nagraj Gollapudi is an assistant editor at ESPNcricinfo

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan allrounder Shahid Afridi, who is being tipped to replace Misbah-ulHaq as captain of the ODI team for next year’s World Cup, has come out in support of his current captain.

“Misbah has been leading the side well since the last few years and he has also been our most prolific batsman. I think we all need to support him even if he has had one bad series,” Afridi said. “It is unfair to criticize him so much after just one bad series as captain and batsman. He has been a stable influence on the team and he needs support at this stage for the World Cup.” Misbah has been Test captain since 2010 but he replaced Afridi as the captain of the one-day and T20 squads in only in May 2011 after Afridi had a spat with the PCB. “I have no issues playing under Misbah’s captaincy because he has been there for a while now and has been performing consistently since 2010. We depend on Misbah and few other seniors,” he said. “But it is time the junior players also put up their hands and took responsibility to perform. If we play as a unit, I am sure we will start doing well again and I just want to see the team winning again before the World Cup.” Afridi also praised the role of head coach Waqar Younis who he called a “changed person”. Afridi was stripped of the captaincy after differences with Waqar in 2011, but he said that the incident was a thing of the past.

“Waqar worked very hard with the team in Sri Lanka and the players got a lot of support from the team management even under pressure. There is lot of team spirit in this side and I am confident we can start winning again soon it is a matter of time.

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Business IndoAmerican News

STOCKS • FINANCE • SOUTH ASIAN MARKETS • TECHNOLOGY

Smartphone Makers Dial Up Growth in India

BY PENELOPE MACRAE NEW DELHI: Smartphone-makers are in a race to the bottom of India’s economic pyramid as they battle for customers in the fast-growing low-end market segment where analysts say opportunities are vast.

India is now the quickest-expanding smartphone market globally and the third-largest market after China and the US, according to Britain-based consultancy Canalys. India “is a market that offers huge potential as hundreds of millions of users have yet to upgrade,”said Jessica Kwee, an analyst at Canalys. Sales in the country of 1.25 billion people rose by 84% in the quarter to June from a year earlier as users traded up from basic handsets to more sophisticated models, spurred by ever lower prices. Local and foreign companies alike are sacrificing profit margins to build market share in India, which counts 914 million mobile users, according to government data. The cheapest smartphones now retail at Rs.2,000 ($33), down from

an average Rs.15,000 two years ago.

Technology consultancy IDC India projects annual smartphone sales growth of around 40% for the next five years in the price-sensitive nation, home to 33% of the world’s poor.

“A new entry-level price point is being breached by Indian home-grown vendors in every (financial) quarter,” IDC analyst Karan Thakkar said.

Smartphones now hold a 10% market share among India’s mobile-phoneusing population, according to IDC. That 10% figure is widely seen as a “tipping point”—the moment when buyers start opting for smartphones over other phones, going by experiences in other countries. And the below-$200 slice of the smartphone market is at the heart of the action, accounting for some four-fifths of total Indian smartphone sales, IDC says.

‘A time of transformation’ California-based Mozilla, the non-profit organization behind the open-source web browser Firefox, is the latest entry into India’s cheap smartphone market. Mozilla joined

forces with Indian phonemaker In- Internet is where it’s at,” Vanitha sively by local heavyweight Microtex to launch a low-cost smartphone Narayanan, IBM India managing max, which has become India’s No. —the Intex Cloud FX—at Rs.1,999. director, told AFP. Handset makers 2 smartphone brand in six years and Intex, which billed the smartphone as in India and other emerging markets boasts Hollywood actor Hugh JackIndia’s cheapest, said the first batch have been leapfrogging fixed-line man as its brand ambassador. Microsold out in days. It aims to sell half-a- technology that was used in devel- max, which has targeted the low-end million handsets by the end of 2014. oped markets. They are employing consumer, has an 18% market share Leading television channel NDTV’s mobile broadband to deliver Internet and is now moving upmarket as well technology reviewer Jamshed Avari access to people who have no com- as abroad with its phones. “Samsung called the handset “a great start” puters. The replacement market now needs to continue to address the low for Firefox in India but warned of is propelling most mobile sales and end of the market aggressively and “agonising slowdowns” when oper- the smartphone switchover is becom- also needs a blockbuster product at ating it. Intex’s nearest smartphone ing much easier with the fall in prices the high end to regain momentum,” rival price-wise is domestic handset- and cheap monthly finance options. said IDC’s South Asia general manmaker Spice, which sells its Firefox- All these developments could spell ager Jaideep Mehta. Apple deals at powered Spice Fire One Mi-FX 1 trouble for South Korean giant Sam- the top-price bracket but has been offor Rs.2,299, or $37. Using Firefox sung, which has targeted mainly high- fering trade-in payments, instalment slashes 30% from prices of the closest end customers and leads the Indian plans and older models to make its Android-based competition, experts smartphone market with a 29% share, iconic phones more affordable—a say. Other Indian handset-makers according to IDC. It needs to move strategy it says has paid dividends, also have ultra-affordable Firefox- into the high-volume, low-cost seg- although its exact sales figures in driven smartphones in the works. ment more decisively, analysts say. India are not known.

The smartphone sales boom echoes Samsung is being shadowed aggres- livemint.com India’s initial staggering NEWS EXECUTIVE PRODUCER growth in mobile telephony inthelastdecade KTRK-TV, Houston’s leading news organization, is looking for a News Executive when the counProducer who has a proven track record in broadcast and digital. This person must be a try was adding strong leader, effective communicator, with a ‘can do’ attitude. Consistently able to meet millions of new deadlines and work well under pressure, especially in breaking news situations. subscribers a month. That frenetic growth Must have exceptional producing, writing, and copy-editing skills. Needs to be passionate has flattened— about the news. Quick at identifying, promoting and executing great stories. Organized, the number of efficient, capable of juggling multiple projects and staffers. mobile users per 100 stands Candidates should have at least 5 years producing experience in a major market, and some at 73.55—and managerial experience. Will be supervising and motivating a diverse group of broadcast now the focus is and digital employees, as well as mentoring and coaching less experienced staff. getting Internet access through smartphones.

All Interested applicants must apply online at disneycareers.com, reference job # “It’s a time of 205309BR. Please upload a cover letter, resume and list of references. transformation in the Indian No phone calls please. mobile industry—getting KTRK-TV is an Equal Opportunity Employer Female/Minority/Veteran/Disability access to the

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INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2014 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

26 September 12, 2014

FESTIVAL

Ganesh Festivities Around Town

Ganesha Chaturthi is the Hindu festival celebrated in honour of the god Ganesha, the elephant-headed, remover of obstacles and the god of beginnings and wisdom. The festival is also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi.

The festival lasts for 10 days, end-

ing on Anant Chaturdashi.

The festival involves installing clay images of Ganesha in public pandals (temporary shrines), which are worshipped for ten days with different variety of herbal leaves, plants and immersed at the end of the festival in a water (lake) along with the Idol.

After adding herbal and medicated plants and leaves (patri) in lakes, the water in the lake becomes purified.

This was in practice because, in early days people used to drink lake water, and to protect people with infections and viral diseases especially in this season, this tradition was introduced.

HOUSTON: “Ganesh Chaturthi also known as Chavat in Goa has been a very important part of my life growing up in Goa. As far as I can remember, I would eagerly await for the Chaturthi Vacation to start. As a kid, my favorite part was the fireworks. In Goa we light fireworks for Datta Shirodkar with his wife Sandhyaa Shirodkar Chaturthi and not Diwali. Growing up I started getting involved in other aspects of the festival like cleaning the idol room, tying Matoli (fruits and vegetables above the idol) decorating the idol room etc. In our house, we keep the idol for 1-1/2 days and those two days are filled with fun, frolic and laughter. It used to be my wonderful time of the year in Goa, just like Christmas is over here. Spiritually speaking, the idol of Lord Ganesh brings peace to my mind. It is one of the most beautiful sights and it makes me happy whenever I see it.”- By Datta Shirodkar

Some Hindus also install the clay images of Ganesha in their homes. It is believed that Ganesha bestows his presence on earth for all his devotees during this festival. The festival is celebrated as a public event.

While celebrated all over India, it

is most elaborate in Maharashtra and other parts of Western India and Southern India.

Continuing the tradition, some of our readers shared with us their festival experience this year along with pictures.

SUGAR LAND: Guddi Shah has been celebrating this festival since childhood. She moved to Houston three years back from Los Angeles. She is a realtor by profession and also an RJ at the local radio station, H u m T u m .

“This is Guddi Shah my favorite festival of the year, I wait for it all year long. Ganesha is my favorite god. He always gives me strength. I love preparing his favorite food, ladoo. This year I made churma na ladoo,” said Guddi.

KATY: On Saturday, August 30, the Radio Hungama Team celebrated the auspicious Ganesh Festival at the Rylander Elementary School in Katy. This is the second time that Sridhar Dadi and the Hungama Team were able to successfully organize a free event for the community.

HOUSTON: Sunita Shetye and Alka Shetye celebrate this festival every year. They are originally from Mumbai, India. They devote these 10 days explicitly towards this festival.

On an average they have about 50-75 visitors daily in their house during this 10-day festival.

“The day starts with cooking and organizing food each day for everyone, and the day ends with the Ganesh aarti every evening around 8:00 pm,” said Sunita. This year they visited India a month before the festival and picked all the decoration material from Mumbai.

Alka Shetye and Sunita Shetye

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