Friday, November 17, 2023 | Vol. 42, No. 46
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November 17, 2023
Indo American News
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WEDDINGS, SPECIAL EVENTS, TENTED EVENTS, OUTDOOR COURTYARD
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2 November 17, 2023 COMMUNITY Masala Radio’s ‘Deities & Demons’ Diwali Fest: Mesmerizing Houston: Masala Radio yet again innovated a new concept celebration for DIWALI in a trendy part of town – MIDTOWN! Thousands flocked through drizzling rain and chilly temperatures to DEITIES & DEMONS Houston Diwali Fest 2023 @ Rise Rooftop Music Hall. The venue featured an amazing light & sound show combined with its high glass ceilings, retractable roof, multi-levels offered an exiting modern venue to celebrate the ancient Festival of Good over Evil. The Event was copresented by title sponsors Zee5 and Savant Energy and split into 2 events, 6-9 PM for all ages featuring non-stop stage entertainment laced with Sparklers, CO2 bursts, and giant balls of confetti, glittering bazaar, and delectable fusion and Indian street foods. 10-2 was more a Bollywood Party filled with leading artist from across the US: Goddess of Dance Manpreet Toor. Her crisp steps, beautiful expressions, and creative moves left the audience spell bound. Truly a Demon on the Dance floor, the headliner DJ Amsal brought the house down with his Tik-Tok famous mixes of Bollywood with just the right touch of mainstream beats. Sajan Vadali Chicago led the first half, while Houston’s DJ Boyd rocked 6-9 PM inside while DJ Tariq rocked the Food Festival area. With super-human energy and talent, Dholi Anuradha played her amazing dhol for 7 hours! The stage was graced with divine performances by Aerialists, and Ambient Apsara dancers. Dream Decors was tru to her name; Sunita transformed the venue into a heavenly, vibrant place filled with Indian fabric tents, modern triangles of marigolds and tassels, and even added a towering mock Ferris Wheel to completely the dreamy Diwali Festival vibe. “We were having so much fun, we just didn’t want to leave,” said Swathi Jain. Guest enjoyed free Kulfi’s by Zee5, Masala spiced fries and achar tastings by National Foods, Diwali T-shirts by Ramji Law Group and Amir Dohiya, Diyas and Caps from Tara Capital, Rice Bags by Dawat, $15 gift cards by Bob’s Lounge, $10 Gift cards from Triveni Grocers, and free subscriptions from Shemaroo among other giveaways by top sponsors Ali Shekhani for Constable, Bob’s Lounge, Artex Signs, Neptune Imports, Jindal Saw, Deep Foods, Keemat Grocers, Desi Brothers, Nitya Capital, Toro Imports, Lumbre, Cell Pay, AV Diamonds, Travel Guzs, George Willy, Shabana Motors, Malla Mekala, Kinjal Shah, Dr. Freemu Varghese, Elite Restaurant, Marriott West Loop, Dhanani Private Equity Group, and Triveni Grocers. Mouth-watering foods presented by Honest Indian Restaurant, Nirmanz Food Boutique, Madhuram Mirch Masala, and Bawarchi. Ali Shekhani presented an iPhone 15 and Arshad Rami air
pods to the best dressed Goddess – Ashwini - a fearsome Durga complete with the third eye! Organizers are extremely grateful for these sponsors who supported a new concept and participated without blinking an eye! The audience crowded by the stage, mesmerized by the variety, color, and fast pace of the lineup of the leading dance schools in Houston. In order of appearance: Kerala Drummers, Alankar Dance Group, Aditi’s Bollywood Dance Sensation, Dhadak School of Performing Arts, Nupur Center of Performing Arts, Swati’s Group, T2 Dance Company, Kathak Nritya Kala Kendra, and Houston Bhangra Academy that brought the house down! New to Houston, singer Arjun enchanted all with his melodious voice backed by Guitar. The stunning fashion show by Zakia presented Gods & Goddesses dressed in modern ruffled flared gowns contrasted with the ancient look of dhoti style pants and blouses. Finale performed by Infused Performing arts presented a mini Broadway style story line of Apsaras being attacked by Demons and finally saved by Goddess Durga The organizers Sunil & Sandhya Thakkar are well aware that in trying a new concept, there will be mixed reactions. “It was uplifting that so many thousands came and enjoyed without prejudice, the joy on their faces was obvious,” said the Thakkars. “One needs to get out of the same routine, same event venue, same programming, same vendors, and constantly challenge oneself. Special thanks to the entire Crazy Masala Crew! Office: Rinku, Jigisha, Suji, Bhavisha, Chaitali, Aahil, Nikheel, Nilesha. Radio Jockeys: Preanka, Rajoo, Dilip, Priya Pyari
P, Ina, Pankti, Swati, Amit, Anees, Rishi, Jigzz, Kiran, Shweta, Girishma, and Amrita. Event: Ruchir, Dinesh, Josh, Mehran, Ashka,
Shreya, Sahil, Vinay, Daisy, Ricardo, Meera, Amit, Mayuri, Nidhi, Badal, Nikhil. Photos & Videos by SMB Films & Images Quaid, Jack,
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Janie & Mohb. Pictures on FB / IG masalaradio98.7FM or www. masalaradio.com/ Houston Diwali FB / IG or houstondiwali.com.
November 17, 2023
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November 17, 2023
“Where is the Evidence?” India Asks
Ottawa: India’s High Commissioner to Canada Sanjay Kumar Verma urged Ottawa to provide evidence backing its allegations that New Delhi was involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Verma, in an interview with Canada’s Globe and Mail newspaper, said that Canada’s investigation into the murder has already been tainted by a high-level Canadian official’s public statements on the matter. “Where is the evidence? Where is the conclusion of the investigation? I would go a step further and say now the investigation has already been tainted,” Verma was quoted as saying by the newspaper. The relationship between India and Canada took a massive hit after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations in September of a “potential” involvement of Indian agents in Nijjar’s killing in the Canadian town of Surrey in June. India, which had designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020, strongly denied the allegations as “absurd” and “motivated”. Verma said that despite the strong allegations, Canada has not provided any specific or relevant information in this case for India to assist them in the investigation. “A direction has come from someone at a high level to say India or Indian agents are behind it,” he said on Saturday, without naming anyone. The Indian envoy also strongly denied Canada’s allegation and said that India made 26 requests to Ottawa over the past five or six years to extradite people, but Canada did not take any action. He also opened up about security threats faced by him and several other Indian diplomatic staff operating in Canada.
India’s High Commissioner to Canada Sanjay Kumar Verma
Verma said he has been given Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) security because of threats to him. “I feel that is hate speech and an incitement to violence,” Verma said. He added, “I am concerned about my safety and security. I am concerned about the safety and security of my consul generals. God forbid if something happens.” On being asked what New Delhi felt was necessary to repair diplomatic relations, the Indian envoy said both sides need to ensure any disputes are dealt with “through professional communication and professional dialogue.” However, he added that India expects Canada to “rein in Khalistan supporters”. Notably, external affairs minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said that there is “room for diplomacy” to address the diplomatic row between India and Canada. He said both sides have been in touch and hoped that a way would be found to resolve the row. At the same time, he asserted that “sovereignty and sensitivity” cannot be oneway streets.
Indo-American News • Friday, november 17, 2023 • www.indoamerican-news
INDIA
COMMUNITY
November 17, 2023
FIS Lecture on S. Asian Migration to East Africa Houston: TSU presented the second India Studies program Lecture at the Texas Southern University on Nov. 2, 2023. The program was sponsored by the Foundation for India Studies (FIS). .Dr. Laura Fair, Author and Prof. of Middle Eastern and African Studies in Columbia University flew from New York to present the Lecture in the School of Public Affairs auditorium. The lecture was followed by a lively Q&A session from a hall full of enthusiastic students. Dr. Fair’s lecture was accompanied by a series of slides which depicted the history of South Asian migration to East Africa that traced back to the 19th century, driven by colonial endeavors and economic opportunities. As Indians established themselves in countries like Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, they brought with them their cultural practices, including a love for cinema. Early screenings of Indian films in makeshift theaters and community halls became a vital link to their roots, creating a sense of belonging and nostalgia. Despite Swaheli being the local language, Indian films became more popular than even the Egyp-
TSU Prof. Dr. Esparza,Dean of Graduate School and Director of International programs,Dr.Gregory Maddox, Dr. Laura Fair and FIS Chairman, Krishna Vavilala.
tian and Hollywood films and quickly found resonance within East African societies, transcending linguistic and cultural barriers. Themes of love, family, and social justice depicted in Bollywood films struck a chord with diverse audiences. As East Africans of South Asian descent grappled with issues of identity, Indian cinema provided a cultural touchstone, reinforcing their sense of heritage. Over the decades, South Asian cinema has evolved from a peripheral influence to a central force in the East African cultural landscape. Dr. Fair said, “this transforma-
tion reflects the dynamic interplay between migration, globalization, and the power of storytelling through cinema.”. Dr. Fair concluded that The growth of Indian film distribution in East Africa has not only contributed to cultural enrichment but also spurred economic activity. The film industry has created employment opportunities, from distributors and exhibitors to actors and technicians. Furthermore, it has fostered partnerships between local and international stakeholders, stimulating economic growth in the region.
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Four Indian American Rhodes Scholars New York (IANS) – Four Indian American students have been selected from a pool of 840 applicants from 70 countries to join the ranks of Rhodes Scholars Class of 2024 at the University of Oxford. Mrinalini S Wadhwa, Suhaas Bhat, Nayantara K Arora and Aishani Aatresh are among 32 scholars who were selected via in-person interviews for the first time since Covid pandemic and will begin their graduate studies in October 2024. Wadhwa of New York City is a senior at Columbia University where she majors in History and Mathematics. She co-founded a program providing a three-year English curriculum for low-income students in New Delhi. At Oxford, she will pursue an M Phil in Modern European History. Bhat from Wisconsin is a senior at Harvard University majoring in Social Studies and Physics. He cofounded an organization at Harvard that provides peer-facilitated group psychotherapy to students. He will pursue an M Sc in Mathematical Modeling and Scientific Computing and an M Sc in International Health and Tropical Medicine. Arora from Portland is a senior at the University of Oregon, Clark
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Honors College, where she majors in Neuroscience, with minors in Global Health and Chemistry. She conducts research in two areas: global health biomarkers in Tunisia and the relationship between the vasculature and Alzheimer’s disease. Currently an intern with the State Department, Arora produces a podcast dedicated to uplifting immigrant youth stories, plays the violin, and loves learning new languages. She will pursue an M Sc in Modelling for Global Health. Aatresh from California is a senior at Harvard College where she is majoring in complex biosocial systems. During the global pandemic, she worked with the New York City health and hospital system emergency response and then undertook studies to understand the dynamics of Covid-19 with the global Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations. At Oxford, she plans an M Phil degree in Environmental Governance. “They inspire us already with their accomplishments, but even more by their values-based leadership and selfless ambitions to improve their communities and the world,” said Ramona L Doyle, American Secretary of the Rhodes Trust.
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IMMIGRATION
November 17, 2023
Robust Growth in Indian Students in Seeking Permanent Residence
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Washington DC: The Open Doors 2023 report on international educational exchange, released today in Washington DC by the US department of state’s bureau of educational and cultural affairs and the Institute of International Education (IIE), an educational not for profit organisation; reveals that India continues to be the second leading country of origin of students to the US, reaching an all-time high of 268,923 students in 2022-23, an increase of 35% year-over-year. China remained the top-sending country in 2022-23, with 289,526 students studying in the US, but with a negative growth rate (-0.2% year-over-year). Overall, the United States hosted more than one million (1,057,188) international students during the 2022-2023 academic year, a 12% increase compared to the previous academic year, the Open Doors report says. “International students from India increased by 35%, reaching an all-time high of 268,923 students. The number of Indian graduate students increased by a robust 63%, and there was a 16% uptake in undergraduates. India continued to be the Number 1 place of origin of students on OPT [optional practical training, which supports students to gain practical work experiences after they complete their academic studies] with 69,062 students,” Dr Mirka Martel, head of research, evaluation & learning at IIE, said at a press briefing while releasing the report. The big increase in the number of Indian students in the US was largely due to graduate student numbers increasing to 165,936, by 63%, over the previous year. Undergraduate student numbers grew 16% to 31,954 and OPT at 1.3% to 69,062. The most popular fields of study for Indian students in the US
remain STEM subjects, especially maths and computer. In reply to a question from the Times of India on whether the Open Doors report has looked into the trend of widespread job cuts by the big tech companies in the US and lower job opportunities and the impact on the number of Indian students choosing to remain in the US on OPT after they finished their courses; Dr Martel said: “Our data is continuing to indicate that we have robust growth, and robust interest from Indian students to continue their study here in the US. In fact, we are seeing OPT numbers increase. And perhaps the Fall 2023 snapshot [which presents international student enrolment patterns for the current 2023-24 academic year] is the largest indicator we have thus far of many of these increases, particularly for international graduate students, translating into higher rates of OPT.” She added that a 17% increase is seen overall in international students on OPT in the Fall 2023 snapshot. “That’s a double-digit increase in OPT numbers as of Fall 2023-24. Again this is building on the eight per cent growth we already reported in Open Doors. So, we’re going to see robust growth over two years, or we’re seeing that already in optional practical training. Which means more places are opening up.” For the first time in three years, the total number of international students on OPT grew by 8% to 198,793 students, according to the Open Doors report. This was driven by the strong rebound of international graduates last year now pursuing post-study work opportunities. “As incoming classes of international students, particularly graduates, continue to grow postpandemic, the number of students on OPT will likely continue to grow,” the report says.
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November 17, 2023
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November 17, 2023
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FINE ARTS
November 17, 2023
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Udavam Karangal Presents Phenomenally Professional Play “Unforgiven” By Venugopal Menon The annual, customarily exceptional fund-raising event of Udavum Karangal presented on Sunday, October 29, 2023, at the Kalyanamandapam of Sri Meenakshi Temple, was a notch superior than ever before. Under the gifted guidance of Dr. Padmini Ranganathan and Rajan Radhakrishnan, a team of dedicated artists and volunteers worked tirelessly for months to stage a phenomenally professional English play, titled “Unforgiven”. The yearly pledge of this Houston team is quite resembling a reparation, a respectful offering to the divine service the establishment across the globe has undertaken. The altruistic organization based out of Chennai, Udavum Karangal, translated as “Helping Hands”, is the brainchild of its Founding Father “Pappa” Vidyaakar, and his commitment to help the orphans, the destitute and likewise needy human beings. It was back in 1983, when rescuing an abandoned, dehydrated, groaning boy was brought to Vidyaakar who tenderly embraced the role of his guardian – and never looked back. Rest is history. With the help of generous philanthropists from all over, Udavum Karangal is able to save and offer new lease of life to nearly 2,000 unfortunate persons from newborn babies, and children to adults who are deprived, forsaken or abused. Individualized care is provided as needed, from nutritious food, rehabilitation, education and aid in getting them established in life. The institution has short or longer residential care, healthcare, educational facilities, disaster management, guidance, counselling, as more services are being added as more needs evolve. And about twenty years ago, as if by heavenly intervention, a celestial sparkle seemed to have flashed from Thiruverkadu, Tamilnadu all the way across the earth and landed in our space city, Houston, designating one of our own ‘kind and capable hearts’ as the ‘intergalactic guardian’ of Udavum Karangal. Divine destiny entrusted Padmini Ranganathan, the mastermind with an insatiable ability to help, lead and generate results, enthusiastically taking over the overseas responsibility – and once again, rest is history! Back to the backbone of the event! Unforgiven! Why such a title, the very antithesis of helping hands – Munificent to Miserable; Reveren-
tial to Revengeful! Why? The very purpose, I am guessing, is challenging the audience to introspect, contemplate and come to their conclusion how such contrasts - from the serene alcoves at Udavum Karangal, Chennai to the fictional sets of KM of MTS in ‘Unforgiven’ – let your minds soar and explore! About the play, ‘Unforgiven’, I may re-title it “Unparalleled”, on precisely what evolved on stage. Those who have attended the event needs no explanation. Those who didn’t, missed a Broadway play in Meenakshi Temple. The narrative is all about a heinous, convoluted crime, where the culprit gets away through legal loopholes. The plot points at various characters as the villains, as the spectators are drawn through their own detective prospects and come out winners or losers, as they can conveniently conclude. The whole theme revolves around a couple of murders, apparently
happening on the sets as we watch, but don’t worry – no fear of any nightmares. They were discretely ‘diluted’ by the deft directorial prowess, but the suspense was carried through the entire show, even after it was through. The first scene was in a police station, obviously Indian, but organized better. Raju Vanguri - the yesteryear genius who along with everyone’s longlost friend Anil Kumar crafted ‘Potato Chips are called French Fries Here’, stole the evening even before it started, as the ‘pant-pulling’ constable Naidu, until inspector Shakthi Rathode roared on to the scene, with her flawless script delivery and body language. Never recognized it was Surabhi Veeraraghavan – quite a natural! And then comes she! The ‘Helen Hayes of Houston’, Alpa Shah as Durga, the suspected villain, teasing the audience, if to love or to loathe, until proven beyond a doubt. Then a surprise entry, the NextGen sensation, beautiful inside-and-out
Varsha Vasu, a superstar of tomorrow! Mahesh Shah, who wiggled in next, must have been an actor even in his mother’s womb, the way he squirms on the stage, appears as the night owl Natwarlal, a crook just the same as the politician he played last. Dear Srikanth, my friend, nothing is beyond him, donning the role of a chef, needs no uniform, nor a ladle to scoop, neither to ‘cook his character’. Yogi Patel deserves a pat and certainly chances in the future. As the scenes change, the lawyers take over, and from then on, it’s all downhill for us the audience. Their conversation in the far corner was kind of overshadowed by Shivi Pava, the Advocate Assistant, who even as an unnecessary appendage did even better than the lawyers. Don’t let my praise give you hope, Shivi, that call from Tollywood may never come. Then come the titans. No words to compliment the veterans, Vishi the professional who can shine in any role, and my good
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old friend Kas Saranathan, lawyer Parameshwaran, the enigmatic ‘best among equals’, quoting Sydney Sheldon, the attorney par excellence, the Rajat Kamal award candidate from Houston stages. Court scenes follow - the accused in the cage, the witnesses shifting places on their stand, and the attorneys reaching at each other’s throats. There were some tense moments when Charanya, as prosecutor Neeti was aiming at the jugulars of her male opponents, but none among them had a clue, who the real executioner was. The judge at the lower court, Prabha Bala, didn’t seem to care, but in her sleepy, stubborn style, declared the fastest verdict ever, in the history of the courts! As I thought it was over and could get some dinner, it was just the beginning. Durga went to the higher court, presided by experienced, Honorable Judge George Willy, who put the attorneys in their places and after the passionate back-andforth diatribes, ‘Mother’ Durga was exonerated, absolved, freed. Poof! Judge declared that she may go back to her ‘Sanctum’. Still not over. After the curtain draws, they bring on a jungle on to the stage. Apparently, Durga’s backyard, I had to believe! The scene explodes – histrionics double dose, here we go again. Those who left early, missed it all! The epilogue was about Lakshmi’s rape-murder, that you may come in late in the beginning. If your curiosity lasts that long, come back next year. On time. It was way past snack-digestion and dinner for my queasy stomach! Someone whispered loud, it is not intermission, yet. Of course, it is justified that the several artists in front and behind the screen owe to be acknowledged, applauded and admired. It was done, elegantly, though a bit elaaaaborately. The intricate and interesting story and dialogue by Houston Chandramouli, mesmeric masterpiece stage setting and decoration by Nalini Kannan, faultless sound and stage control by Partha Krishnasamy, innovative and pleasing live music by Mahesh Iyer, assisted by Anirudh, magical make up by Lakmi Pawa that erased the real ones, and enchanting play back by Mahalakshmi Krishnan, the immaculate spectacle was pure delight. Huge accolades to all the talents, offering such a marvelous, Houston proud show, and in support of a most worthy, humanitarian cause – Udavum Karangal.
10 November 17, 2023
EDUCATION
Central Montessori School’s Three-year Montessori Program Explained By Lois Kim
Director of Central Montessori School
In the first year, children focus on mastering rudimentary content, in the second year, they develop a more in-depth understanding of the content, and in the third year, the children are able to further expand their understanding and ultimately blossom in their Montessori leadership education through a culmination of everything they have learned.
Each month’s curriculum begins with a STONE. Based on this Stone, the Biblical Word of God comes from one branch, and monthly themes from another branch. These two are incorporated and delivered to children through the Montessori Method. Let’s take April as an example, which is the month where the subject of Botany will be explored. In their first year, students learn the parts of a plant through song. Additionally, they learn the names of common flowers. Higher level students learn the names of flowers in written form. And all of the students will have an opportunity to plant a seed and watch it grow, and take it home. Many students love this gardening experience.
In the second year, students learn about the many different structural aspects of a tree and the shapes of leaves with the Montessori Botany Cabinet. After this lesson, they will have the opportunity to take each leaf inset from the Botany Cabinet outside to do a scavenger hunt for the different shapes of leaves. After these kinds of real life activities, the children become much more observant of the different shapes of leaves when they see a tree outside. This is a sign that the sharpness of the eye is developing.
dioxide. Human beings need factors, and much more, contriboxygen. However, in an opposite ute tremendously to making CMS way, trees need carbon dioxide, a place where children explore and they breathe out oxygen. This and discover the joy of learning kind of learning helps children with endless smiles on their faces. realize the importance of trees to Now, we invite you to this vibrant human beings. Previously young and dynamic educational setting! children cannot see any relationJoin CMS today! ship between trees and them- the ways that separates and high- related books, a magnifying glass (More information is available selves. To young children, trees lights CMS from all other Mon- and a microscope to examine, and at http://centralmontessorischool. are trees, while they are human tessori schools. In addition to this other hands-on activities which org) beings. However, this kind of exclusive three-year curriculum, help children measure, sort, and learning about the relationship of CMS has several great factors that learn by themselves, (4) A school trees and human beings provides make us outstanding: (1) various yard that provides gardening for an opportunity for young children Hands-on Experiments catered to children to grow their own plants to develop a deeper understanding the child’s level based on Monthly and fruit that they can pick on their of the symbiotic relationship that Themes, (2) the “Prepared Envi- own crops, and make salads with exists between humans and plant ronment” equipped with 100% the plants they grow, and (5) all life. The children begin to under- Montessori Didactic Materials different types of Extracurricular stand the importance of plant life to satisfy all Sensitive Periods Activities such as Bike Day, Fire and that all living beings on Earth for each developmental stage of Truck Visitation, Fall Festival, do not randomly exist, but were the child, (3) Nature Exploration Costume Parade, Pajama & Movie purposefully designed to live Tables which are filled with topic Day, Rodeo Day, etc. All of these harmonious lives. In Montessori education, we call this Cosmic Education. According to Montessori research, there is a profound connection between cosmic education and peace. The more opportunities that children have to learn of the interdependence and connectedness of all living things, the more they come to value the integrity of all life. And through this understanding, a peaceful apPuja & Reciting starts proach develops Saturday, Nov 18, 11 am naturally (ConEnds Sunday, Nov 19, 12:30 pm cept excerpted followed by from NAMC). a Small Cultural Program, The third year is when children Bhajans & Aarti, 1pm have an opportunity to watch PROGRAM HOSTS: videos that show DR ARUN & VINNIE VARMA the process of BAL & RITA SAREEN how paper is made from trees. Through this exUPCOMING PROGRAMS posure, they beMonday, Jan 1, 5pm-9pm gin to recognize the importance of reduce, reuse, and recycle. After these lesSaturday, Jan 20, 6:30pm sons, you may till Sunday, Jan 21, 7:30pm find that your child will “nag” at you to turn off at same time as the water while brushing your teeth. They begin to act like an in Ayodhya “Environmental Steward,” a true is live streamed Contact Pandit Bhawani Shankar ji leader of the from Ayodhya, to conduct a Puja at the temple Earth. while HWS devotees have prasad As it is exPlease call Pandit ji at 832-278-0100 for more information plained above, this three-year Montessori curriculum is one of www.hwstemple.org • hws.temple@gmail.com • Facebook: @hwstemple
HINDU WORSHIP SOCIETY in association with
SHRI SITA RAM FOUNDATION Invites devotees to attend the
Ramcharitmanas 24-hr Recital JOIN US IN CELEBRATING THE GLORY OF LORD RAM
Mata di Chowki
Ram Charitmanas Pran Pratiksha
In the third year: The child learns about oxygen and carbon dioxide with several hands-on experiments. They learn that we breathe in oxygen and breathe out carbon
Hindu Worship Society, 2223 Wirtcrest Ln., Houston, TX 77055
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November 17, 2023 11
ENTERTAINMENT
‘Tiger 3’: Power Punches Save Formulaic Thriller
Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each 9-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine. Send us the correct answer before November 21 2023. Email us at indoamericannews@yahoo.com. Please send us your solved Sudoku for your name to be published.
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Kumud Athavale, Krishna R. Vuddagiri, Sanchali Basu, Prabha Barvalia, Ramana Vadrevu, KB Amarnath, Pruthvi Seth, K.S.Balasubramanyam, Sahiti Palle, Rekha Trivedi, Sunil Sharma, Yudhveer Bagga, Rekha Trivedi
Indo-American News • Friday, november 17, 2023• www.indoamerican-news.com
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This is the story of a die-hard Sachin Tendulkar fan and how his underdog cricket team wins a match that will help his father and his group build a temple.
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ring background score (by Tanuj Tiku). The swift pacing makes up for many a flaws, with a taut edit by Rameshwar S. Bhagat. But overall, ‘Tiger 3’ qualifies as a good addition to the franchise with enough ammo for mass entertainment. -- Times of India
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Story: Tiger (Salman Khan) and his partner Zoya (Katrina Kaif) face a harrowing personal threat when a vengeful terrorist, Aatish Rehman (Emraan Hashmi) from Pakistan, issues an ultimatum— they must comply with his demands or risk losing their son to a brutal fate. Review: ‘Tiger 3’ continues the saga of YRF’s spy universe, with the same old premise of a highly motivated terrorist harbouring an utterly misplaced idea of patriotism. Shridhar Raghavan’s story serves as a canvas for director Maneesh Sharma to put up a highoctane action show that weaves the elements of duty, personal sacrifice, and patriotism. Bhai fans can rejoice, as he looks fresh and back in perfect form. He goes all out performing dare-devil stunts that not only defy death and gravity but also logic. Nonetheless, it’s a full-blown visual spectacle The narrative is packed with constant thrills, and plot twists, many of them predictable but snackable too. Anay Goswamy’s breathtaking cinematography deftly captures the scale of this globe-trotting espionage saga that seamlessly travesses across Europe, Russia, Istanbul, India and Pakistan. Emraan Hashmi shines as the ruthless antagonist, Aatish, despite a very cliched characterisation that lacks conviction. While the film leans on familiar spy genre elements, inspired by Hollywood Kaushika Shah hits and many Bollywood blockbusters, it Licensed Sales Agent ensures there’s no dearth of adrenaline-pumping 832-282-3515, TTY 711 action sequences. This time though, the film’s leading lady Katrina Kaif gets a well-defined character arc with Y0066_23SPRJ55188_C a convincing backstory,
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a solid motive and context. Katrina pulls off an action-heavy role with ease, kicking some serious butt. Her fight scene in towel with Asian American actress Michelle Lee is nicely done. Despite its expected storyline and reliance on established spy movie tropes, ‘Tiger 3’ navigates a delicate balance between showcasing patriotism and overdramatising it. The timely cameo by Shahrukh Khan as Pathaan, is integrated seamlessly into the story. It’s sure to hit home with the fans of both the Khans. This time around, Pritam’s music falls short of leaving a lasting impact. The writing tends to portray Pakistan as the perennial antagonist without delving into nuanced motivations and the complex geo-political landscape of the continent. The dialogues lack the punch to evoke constant applause and seetis from Bhai fans. Despite such heavy dependence on VFX, ‘Tiger 3’ lacks the required finesse in many scenes, much like its jar-
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By Ronak Kotecha
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Solution Next Week
12 November 17, 2023
Indo-American News • Friday, november 17, 2023 • www.indoamerican-news
