July 8 Pages 1-26

Friday, July 8 2011 | Vol. 30, No. 27

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Sri Rajarathna Bhattar Passes Away Photo: Krishna Giri

Houston, Texas

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Sri Rajarathna Bhattar, affectionately known as Bhattar mama to his many friends and well-wishers, passed away on Tuesday, July 5 in Irving, Texas. He was 84. Sri Rajarathna Bhattar served as a priest at the Meenakshi Temple in Pearland from it’s very inauguration. He took over duties as the chief priest from his older brother Thanga Bhattar in the mid 80s. He was designated Sri Meenakshi Temple Society’s Priest Emeritus after his retirement. Sri Bhattar’s family is in the process of making funeral arrangements in Pearland close to the temple. The MTS Board plans to hold an Atmashanti Pooja for him.

Please see Page 17 for an article on Sri Rajarathna Bhattar that was published in Indo American News in 2007

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A Little Temple with a Big Heart and a Worldwide Following

By Jawahar Malhotra RICHMOND, TX: Along a curve in FM 752, in a corner of Fort Bend County about two miles south of the George Ranch historical park, the small stupa and wood frame building catches your eye behind a brick fence. Once inside the driveway, the rest of the complex of the Radha Krishna Organization comes into full view, with an ochre colored building set onto a corner of the 8 acre property.

“We are a small temple, but we have a big heart,” said Swami

Shaan Se

Swami 108 Tahal Kishorji Maharaj held services and gave discourses at the Krishna Pranami Temple in Ft. Bend county, where 108 devotees sat at their books and read through the Bhagwat Katha as an act of cleansing. Photos: Jawahar Malhotra 108 Tahal Kishorji Maharaj as he stepped outside with the celebrants of the 7 day event that started over the Independence Day weekend.

Participants had come from as far away as the Colorado and the UK to attend, and a busload of 60 followers of the Swami had driven down from Canada.

The Shri Krishna Pranami Mandir, is the first in North America for the RKO, whose spiritual head is from the Shri Bhadravatipuri Dham in Baroda, Gujarat.

In the past few years, the organization has spread to Nepal with a temple, orphanage and school in Kathmandu, Nepal, a temple in Colorado and now this complex

Shaan Rocks

in the greater Houston area. With this, the Metroplex is served by Hindu temples on its edges, with the newly opened Woodlands Temple to the north and the Meenakshi Temple to the southeast.

The local RKO branch, founded

by Saroj Patel, bought this rural farmland several years ago and built a small building to start its mission. In preparation of its first large scale function, over the past six months, another assembly hall was added onto the building, a separate restroom building and the main sanctuary was expanded with a front entrance with a dome and more space for the murthis of the deities. “We’ve been really to

start by December.

In this, the RKO’s first major function, devotees read from the story life of Lord Krishna in the Shrimad Bhagwat Katha as interpreted by the Swamiji. Individual stations were set aside for the 108 participants (reflecting the 108 beads of the Hindu rosary) who would go through the entire interpreted book in the ascribed 7 days.

This follows the story of Raja Prikshad, the grandson of Arjun and the sole survivor of the Kuravs and Pandavs who were killed in the Mahabharat war. Prikshad had brought on a curse on himself

By Manasi Gokhale Bavadekar HOUSTON: On Friday, July 1, a packed audience at the Cullen Performance Hall in the Univeristy of Houston was enthralled by one of the most accomplished singers in Bollywood, Shaan. The show was organized by Rajender Singh of Star Promotion Inc. The show began with an appearance by the talented singer Shadab Faridi. Shadab, who is a big fan of Sufi music, kicked off with a rendition of the Kailash Kher hit classic Teri Deewani. He followed that with a couple more of hits which included Tu hi Haqeeqat from the movie Tum Miley, and the famous Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan classic Piya Re. He was given a huge round of applause from the enthusuatic audience.

As he wrapped up his performance, he welcomed another talented upcoming singer Aishwarya Majmudar (winner of 2008 musical reality show Amul STAR Voice of India) on stage and she was greeted by a round of applause by the fans.

She proceeded to churn out a succession of renditions that included Zoobi Doobi from the movie 3 Idiots followed by Aaj phir jiney ki tamanna hai (Guide), Shiela ki Jawani (Tees Maa Khan) and Mere dholna sun (Bhool Bhulaiya).

She then introduced on stage the star of the evening, Shaan.

The crowd greeted him with

Shadab Faridi

continued on page 16 Indo American News • Friday, JUly 08, 2011 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com

thunderous applause and he did not disappoint them as the evening unfolded. He went on to sing a succession of his hit songs including Behti hawa sa tha woh, Main hoon Don, Jabse tere naina, Tune muzhe pehchana, Woh pehli baar, Hum jo chalne lage, Dil ne tumko chunliya, Main aisa kyu hu, Subah ho gayi mamu, One love, Do you want a Partner, Welcome, Ohh humdum, Bum bum bole and Musu musu hasi.

He even went on to sing one of his favorite bengali songs.

Once he completed his lineup of songs, he proceeded to sing some of the famous songs from old as well as more recent Bollywood movies. These included Chand Sifarish, Maine poocha chand se, Mere samne wali khidki mein , Chingari koi, Jeena isika naam hai among others.

He then invited Shadab as well as Aishwarya on stage to join him for some duets which included Beedi, Munni, Shukran Allah, Sajda, Tere mast mast do Nain and many more.

He signed off by thanking the organizers, the sponsors and of course, each and every individual member of his band of musicians. The audience appreciated the sincerity and the talent of Shaan who sang non-stop on stage for nearly three hours. It was a concert to remember for the music afficionados.

Aishwarya Majmudar

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Inara Saris to launch in Houston on July 31 HOUSTON: “Dreams are saris that are specifically market- dered for this event by Sajnee like stars...you may never touch ed towards the modern, fashion- Boutique, Parinaz Boutique, and them... but if you follow them savvy buyer. With that thought in Princess the Royal Collection. they will lead you to your des- my mind, and my natural passion These handpicked boutiques altiny...” Sure it’s not easy, it takes for fashion in my heart, Inara De- ways have a beautiful selection of designer wear, but get preample of time, financial support, signer Saris was born!”

“I love being innovative and pared to see some of their best a lot of creativity, and undying determination. But despite the coming up with fun and creative on display on this day! The stunbumpy road, the journey can be ideas,” continues the new design- ning designer jean brand Maby quite rewarding affirms Narmeen er, “it’s like I constantly crave by Tanaz Choudhury will also be Lakhani, the publisher and found- doing something new and excit- there showcasing their newest, er of SBR (Sabse Bada Rupaiya) ing. And to launch my new sari most glamorous, designs. The exhibition will also Magazine. display exquisite jew“It all starts with elry by AR Designs, an idea, and then and elegant clutches it’s up to you to

by Zayn Couture. And do what you wish the newest trends in with that one sindesigner eye wear will gle thought. You be featured by EZ Opcan either develop tical to help keep your it, or ignore it, but eyes protected all sumif you ignore it, mer long! The hair and you’ll never know make up for the fashwhat could have ion show will be done come of that idea.”

by Hooked on Heena says Narmeen. who will be providing The young entrebeauty services on the preneur began her day of the expo, includventure into the ing eye brow threading competitive field and henna tattoos! of publishing at the To add to the mix, age of 21 and has DJ AV will be spinning enjoyed her jourtoday’s hottest tracks ney into the excitthroughout the event! ing world of marCapturing the event on keting and media film will be Waleed Ali ever since. With from Frame Photograa unique concept, phy. And the entire firing determinavenue and catwalk will tion, and her parbe elegantly decorated ents support, the

by Nalini’s creative business minded staff at Decor One! young adult took If you’re someone her ideas and manwho likes to keep up ifested them into a with the hottest trends, colorful publicaNarmeen Lakhani with one of her designer Inara Sa- or are just curious to tion reaching out ris. Photo: Zia Ahmed Aventography Studios explore the world of to readers all over fashion and beauty, Houston.

Narmeen, who’s now in the collection I thought I’d bring in you can experience that and much process of launching her own vendors who also share the same more at the SBR Magazine Sumdesigner sari collection, INARA inner drive as myself and put to- mer Fashion Expo and Fashion SARIS, encourages all young gether a fashion expo like none Show being held on Sunday, July 31st at the Crown Plaza Hotel, adults to follow their hearts and other!

Being a model myself, I thought River Oaks on Kirby and 59. to peruse their talents and natural In closing, Narmeen states, abilities. “Growing up, I always it would be exciting to showcase wanted to get into the entertain- our designers products in a full “I’m very lucky to have extremement industry. Acting, modeling, fledge fashion show! So I and ly supportive parents and loved fashion, media excited me. After Abiya Malhotra from Glitz En- ones! With that in your heart, and publishing the magazine for four tertainment got together 15 gor- a motivated mind set there isn’t years, I thought it was time to do geous models to walk the ramp anything you can’t achieve! I something new and exciting. Like for all the designers who will be hope to see you all come out and support my new endeavor and many girls I love to shop, howev- participating in the expo!

Not only will we be displaying support all of our vendors, and er, the one piece of clothing that excites me the most is the sari. INARA SARIS, but also the latest enjoy a free event for your family Unfortunately, the Houston mar- designs in Indian and Pakistani and friends!” ket doesn’t have a large variety of wear which will be specially orIndo-American News (ISSN 887-5936) is published weekly every Friday (for a subscription of $30 per year)

by Indo-American News Inc., 7457 Harwin Dr., Suite 262, Houston, TX 77036, tel: 713-789-6397, fax:713-789-6399, email: indoamericannews@yahoo.com.

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Former Pakistani l leader Pervez musharraf m to s speak at Baker Institute on July 11 HOUSTON: Gen. Pervez Musharraf, the former president of Pakistan, will speak at the James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy on July 11 about recent developments in his country. The presentation, “Pakistan: A Reality Check,” will begin at 6 p.m. in Baker Hall’s Doré Commons.

Musharraf took power in a 1999 coup, citing corruption in the civilian-led government. He ruled Pakistan through nine turbulent years that included economic reform, the U.S. military intervention in neighboring Afghanistan and a gradual restoration of civilian democracy. He survived several assassination attempts.

Musharraf will speak on his vision for Pakistan’s future, based on his call for “enlightened moderation,” in which the country would shun extremism and embrace socio-economic liberalization in return for fair and dignified treatment by the rest of the world.

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Indian Government relaxes r rules for surrender r s c certificate

When the new rules regarding the surrender of Indian passports upon acquisition of US citizenship were introduced by the Government of India Ministry of External Affairs in May 2010, the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO International) expressed strong objections. GOPIO also objected to Indian Consulates charging $175 USD fee for surrender of old Indian passports and additional penalties for various “violations”. GOPIO collected over 30,000 petitions and sent its objections along with the petitions to the Prime Minister of India.

Based on the persistence and objections raised by GOPIO, on June 1, 2010, a partial relaxation of the rules was achieved and the fee reduced to USD $20.

Nevertheless, the removal of burdensome procedures and fees on Indians who became citizens of other countries was not addressed in a coherent, consistent and equitable way. As a result, during the last one year alone, there have been demonstrations, hunger strikes and thousands of emails to the Indian consulates, GOPIO and the government of India, yet the issue never got the full attention of the Government of India for a comprehensive solution as promised.

In January, 2011, a GOPIO delegation comprising of GOPIO Chairman Inder Singh, Executive Vice President Ashook Ramsaran and former chairman Dr Thomas

Abraham, presented a memorandum to the Ministry of External Affairs and again explained the hardships and delays people have been experiencing in obtaining visa for visiting India and how such bureaucratic procedures are consequently alienating NRI/PIO communities. In particular, GOPIO wanted that the surrender certificate requirement should not be enforced in case of people who had obtained foreign citizenship more than 10 years ago as the Indian passports loses its validity after 10 years anyway.

On January 6, 2011, GOPIO held a conference session on this subject at its annual convention in New Delhi. A high ranking representative of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) attended and MEA became more aware of the continuing problem.

In May 2011, a high level delegation from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) visited the USA to look into complaints of the people regarding visa issue. GOPIO met the delegation and presented another memorandum which included several demands included in the GOPIO’s January 6, 2011 memorandum.

It is heartening to know that two of the demands in the GOPIO memorandum have been accepted and have been implemented by the Ministry of External Affairs Indian with directives to all Indian High Commis- sions and Consulates.

That is, (1) Elimination of surrender certificate from those who became naturalized citizens more than 10 years ago, and (2) An OCI application need not be accompanied by an original US passport.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a circular to all Indian Missions/Posts as follows: “(i) Registration of surrender certificate: Since visa and other applicants (for consular services) of Indian origin are being put to discomfort by the request for surrender certificate every time they seek a service, all Missions/Posts have been advised to register the surrender certificate, electronically or otherwise, at the first occasion it is presented. Such a record will ensure that PIOs will no longer be required to produce the certificate on every occasion of approaching the Mission/Post for consular as-

sistance. (ii) ‘Deemed surrender’ cases: In order to deal with instances where a Person of Indian Origin was in possession of an Indian passport that expired more than 10 years ago, and where in the intervening period, he/she has acquired foreign citizenship, all Missions/ Posts have been advised to treat such cases as ‘Deemed surrender.’

On the production of documents showing the acquisition of foreign nationality more than 10 years ago, such persons will be issued ‘deemed surrender’ certificates, without causing the additional burden of producing passports which may not be in the possession of the Person of Indian Origin.”

“We compliment the MEA high level delegation in accepting some GOPIO’s recommendations and MEA issuing the directives accordingly. The elimination of surrender certificate requirement from people who have obtained foreign citizenship more than ten years ago, will not only stop the decline of goodwill in the Indian community for the Government of India but can also reduce workload at the consulates,” said Inder Singh, GOPIO Int’l Chairman.

“Now that the work load will be less, Indian missions in western countries and Travisa should finish off all the backlogs soon and make the process of getting an OCI card and entry visa to India easier for the Indian community,” said Dr. Thomas Abraham, former

Chairman of GOPIO International, who has been involved in this issue from the beginning.

“Finally, MEA has taken some steps to remove the difficulties faced by many who became citizens of other countries and desirous of visiting India or applying for OCI cards. This is a welcome action that removes an undue burden on former citizens of India and improves goodwill towards India”, said Ashook Ramsaran, Executive Vice President of GOPIO International.

For more information, contact GOPIO International at +1-818708-3885, Email: GOPIO-Intl@ sbcglobal.net.

In Memoriam

Suresh Dhirajlal Sutaria Oct 2, 1941- Jul 1, 2011 Obituary will follow next week

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Fire and Ice Gala for Hope Endowment SUGAR LAND: Hope Endowment is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which fundraises for three specific orphanages or group homes for impoverished children in India. All children are provided with housing, food, clothing, medical, education and social services as needed. The children that are served are between the ages of 3 to

to expand the Home’s services outside of Kerala. In 2006, two facilities were established in Gujurat: a Home in Rajkot currently serves 20 children and a Home in Dumda near Surat houses 52 children.

The need for these services has outstripped the current facilities and plans are underway to expand the capacity of both of these

Top: Left to Right: Chris Siebenaler, CEO; Niraj Patel, MD.; Swapan Dubey, M.D.; Lowell Stanton, CFO; Bottom: Left to Right: Leena Taneja; Janet Leatherwood, CNO; Molly Philip, RN; Minal Vyas; Nicholas Desai, M.D. and Becky Chalupa, ACNO (Not pictured- Parin Shah, M.D.)

18. The Hope Endowment currently sup- homes. Because of this need, the Hope Enports 180 children across the three homes. dowment was created as an official 501(c) Why now and why India? India will (3) in the United States and simultaneoussoon overtake China as the most populated ly the Hope Endowment Trust, an NGO, country in the world. Currently more than was created in India to better serve these 30% of the world’s births are in India and children. in total 16 million children are born every The Fire and Ice Gala – presented by year (one child every 2 seconds). These Methodist Sugar Land Hospital – is schedchildren face a dim future as 37% of the uled for Friday, August 26, 2011 at the population is below the poverty line and Marriott Sugar Land Town Center Hotel.

40% of the population is illiterate. Over What makes Hope Endowment so unique 50% of the children are also malnour- is all private donations will go directly to ished. Many of these children are abused, the children’s care in India. The foundsold into prostitution or exposed to drugs. ing members of Hope Endowment have The children that come to the Hope En- pledged to cover all administrative costs. dowment sponsored orphanages are ei“We are honored to join Hope Endowther found abandoned, picked up off the ment in their mission to empower children street by local police or come from nearby in India to transcend poverty by providovercrowded orphanages. Some are even ing a safe, caring, compassionate home brought in by parents or relatives too im- and prepare these children with education poverished to care for another child. and social development,” said Chris SieWhat started as one person’s mission benaler, CEO at Methodist Sugar Land and promise to take care of orphans and Hospital. impoverished children has blossomed into a full-fledged non-profit serving hundreds Hope Endowment deeply thanks the of children in India. The work began in Methodist Sugar Land Hospital for being 2004, Dr. Niraj Patel, a Houston physician the presenting sponsor for the Fire and Ice partnered with Molly Philip, an Emergency Gala. This event would not be possible Room Nurse to provide on-going support without their support. Additional sponsorfor Shepherd Children’s Home in Kerala, ship opportunities are still available. To India. The Home, based in a small cottage, purchase Gala tickets or for more informahoused three young boys and their caretak- tion, contact Minal Vyas at 713-876-5110 ers. After demand for services increased in or hopeendowment@gmail.com. the community, the Home was expanded For additional information and to donate to a new two story structure that was online visit www.hopeendowment.net. completed in 2005 and serviced 60 boys and girls, and the planned Immediate opening for a Medical Assistant, expansion Full time / Part time for Physician’s Office on 1-45 / FM 1960. will serve The job requires Checking Vital Signs, Precription writting, 100 children Patient communication and some front office skills. by 2010. In Knowledge and Experience in medical field essential.

2005, Dr. Patel asked Contact: Tel: (281) 300 - 8899 or email:Sukhbir@hotmail.com, Ms. Philip to Fax: (281) 580 - 5665 explore ways

Medical Assistant Needed

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rep. Al Green s r speaks at yldP Program

By ishan Prakash, neerJ eer a aGGrawal, akil Chittaluru & sriharish vanGavolu HOUSTON: “The world is not always fair”, some people say. While what people desire most may not always fall into their silver platters the moment they order it, sometimes, the more rewarding part of the deal is how we go about achieving our goals and in effect, earning them. It takes effort, commitment, and a lot of bravery to overcome obstacles that stand in the way of ambition. Congressman Al Green is a – leader whose life, ideals, and actions are shaped by such an attitude to say the least. In his presentation to Youth Leadership Development Program (YLDP) class, Green taught two very important lessons; firstly, to always focus on having a good character even in the

Announcement

what sustains you”. Quite simply put, we all understood then and there, that while understanding others and their intentions is respectable, understanding ourselves and focusing on values that affect our character is truly noble; and Congressman Al Green truly epitomized such an attitude.

As a Congressman it was only befitting of Green to mention that when conveying one’s attitude towards another person, whether they are your opponent or simply another family member, it is important to choose words carefully. Representative shared of another personal story when another fellow congresswoman asserted that words aren’t simply forgotten the moment they leave the mouth, but rather, “they live” the moment they are spoken for the first time. An example of something we should especially be careful about when applying such knowledge is how we express fundamental things to young children. For example, Congressman Green talked about YLDP students with Congressman Al Green the time when his uncle told midst of biggest adversities, and secondly, him at the age of 7 that he was going to be to always remember to choose words care- a great lawyer. Even at the early age of 7, fully when speaking. his mind was set to become a lawyer and For each lesson Congressman Green had what he became was something much more a very unique and powerful life story. For remarkable. Congressman Green today repa leader of great caliber, it was surprising resents the people of the 9th Congressional to learn that a lot of his lessons regarding District of Texas and is a veteran civil right character were taught to him in his early advocate, representing people whose voices childhood at ages 6-8 years old. Congress- are too often unheard. So indeed words are man Green narrated a lesson his mother powerful, not only because of the way we taught him in early childhood when he first convey them, but they help you manifest came across the innocent desire to smoke what’s within you and fulfill in shaping your cigarettes. When she caught his smoking, destiny.

Green’s mother took him to the nearest gas Green is a devout follower of Mahatma station and bought him the biggest cigar (not Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. It goes cigarette) on sale. She allowed him to smoke without saying that through his extraordithe cigar in the car. With intense suffocation nary contribution to community service, his from the smoke, and the permanent damage outstanding professional experience, and he asserts that even today, he maintains the head-turning speech and leadership abilities, rightful healthy habit of never again picking Representative Green has received many up cigarettes. He doesn’t drink. awards for his achievements. In saying so, However making healthy choices isn’t the one of the most admirable aspects of Green only strength Green has in his character; is the fact that he is so humble. In receiving for instance, he never sits when a woman this year’s recognition and thanks for comis standing – respecting women and elderly ing to speak with YLDP, Green closed in is value he has nurtured. He never allows saying that “let me receive this award not the tarnishing of his reputation to get the because I deserve it, but so that it may inbest of him. With that in mind Representa- spire me to do more”. tive Green conveyed a bit of wisdom that will impact us forever in saying, “When For information about YLDP, visit http:// your reputation fails you, your character is www.yldphouston.org

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“live live and Help live” l l resonates r esonates with JAI JAIn nA conventioneers nA

999

By shashank Jain & Jawahar Malhotra Photos: Sunil Chaudhary, Swapna Patel HOUSTON: The graphic projected on stage perfectly summed the intent of the convention: a blue globe of Earth supported by outstretched hands of all colors and ages and the motto Live and Help Live above it. It neatly told the story of the deep roots inherent in Jainism of non-aggression, har-

temple was also set up at the GRB with two Jain idols, specially brought from India for the convention.

At the opening ceremonies, Chief Guest Devendra R. Mehta, founder of the Mahavir Viklang Sahitya Samiti emphasized the convention theme “Live & Help Live” saying that this positive and humanistic concept would further enhance the reputation of caring Jains in America. Dr. Neal Barnard, one

“Diaspora”; facilitating socio-economic development and growth of Jains; the Jain Way of Life (JWOL) and Healthy Lifestyles.

Food for the entire four days, three meals a day, were catered by the BAPS Swami Narayan Mandir in a hall that abutted the commercial booth part of the hall on the third level of the GRB. The organization for getting such a large crowd of people served, seated and fed was impressive.

by Shefali Jhaveri and Tina Shah featuring over 170 participants and slick visuals to depicted Jains all over the world, reaffirming the theme of the convention, Live and Help Live. Most attendees agreed that Swagatam had raised the bar of amateur performances to a professional level. Other Jain centers from across the country chimed in with beautiful performances of their own.

A first for this JAINA convention was

mony, support and oneness with Nature. In today’s world which is facing an era of scarcity, these ideals are indeed noble to aspire to and those who attended the JAINA convention held this past weekend from July 1 through 4 were able to learn many of the ways to evolve and prosper in a turbulent future.

Over 3,000 people from across the nation, and many from other parts of the world, came to the Bayou City for the 16th Biennial convention of the Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA), the first time in its 30 years that it has ever been held in the southern US. JAINA is composed of 67 Jain organizations in North America, and works to preserve, practice and promote Jainism. This year’s convention was hosted by the Jain Society of Houston and was held at the George R Brown Convention Center as well as the adjoining Hilton Americas hotel. The attendance made this convention one of the most successful so far.

The convention began on Friday July 1st with blessings from religious and spiritual leaders who come especially for the occasion: Gurudev Chitrabhanu who founded JAINA in 1981; prominent sadhus Acharya Chandanaji, Charukeerthi Bhattarakji, Guruvanand Guruji, Amrendra Muniji and Pujyashri Rakeshbhai Jhaveri from India and six nuns, including Samani Akshay Pragya and Samani Sanmati Pragya with the Houston center, who reside at Jain Vishwa Bharati centers across North America. A temporary

of America’s leading advocates for health and nutrition was the keynote speaker. He shared his insights into the world of veganism and vegetarianism and shared scientific proof on the reversal of diseases by adopting plant based diets.

A schedule with six concurrent tracks of activities developed by Dr. Manoj Dharamsi, Chair of the Programming Management team kept attendees involved listening to one interesting topic after another. Religious, spiritual and interfaith discussions with religious leaders were both intriguing and informative. Other highlighted sessions included animal rights activist and CEO of the Humane Society, Wayne Pacelle and Dr. Nathan Katz , Professor and Founding Chair of the Department of Religious Studies at Florida International University who spoke on the Jain principle of Anekantvaad (relative pluralism), and how such an ageold concept may now be of great relevance.

Dr. Gary Francione, an ardent follower of Jainism and a distinguished Professor of Law, at Rutgers University, spoke on Animal Rights and Jain Dharma.

Multiple entrepreneurship sessions were conducted by serial entrepreneurs like Jainesh Mehta, Dipak Doshi, Prem Jain and Swatantra Jain. Dr. Edward Blair Chair of the University of Houston’s Marketing Department and the Center of Entrepreneurship was on hand to guide the budding entrepreneurs. Other topics of interest were an international Jain leaders’ forum on

There was lots of entertainment in the evenings for all the attendees. Friday evening featured a well-performed play in Hindi, “Gandhi before Gandhi”, about the volcanic life of Virchand Gandhi. Raas and Bhangra music at the Hilton Americas ballroom kept the crowds entertained late into the night. Saturday evening featured a signature program by the Jain Society of Houston, aptly named Swagatam. It was a flawless one-hour performance coordinated

the “Jains Got Talent” competition. Over 80 individual and group acts went through a three-level screening competition which began 2 months ago. Contestants were then brought together on Friday evening for two rounds of competition for selection into the Grand Finale where 13 acts were performed on Sunday evening at the General Assembly Theater. Awards were presented to American Born Contemporary Dancers continued from page

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Hare Krishna Bringing youth y t together

ALEXANDER P. MATHEWS, CPA

HOUSTON: Imagine life in the hustle and bustle of this world without the your friends and family. Thanks to Srila Prabhupada, the founder of the Hare Krishna movement, we have a wonderful society to help us make it through the struggles in this life.

Without the mercy of the devotees and the guidance and support of our friends, pursuing our

retreat has become the highlight of our summer. Bringing together ISKCON youth from around the United States, it brings us in touch with the worldwide family that Srila Prabhupada created for us. The first retreat we attended was called “Unite,” then we attended “Transcend,” and later “The Simple Life.” The first time we united with friends that even-

spiritual goals would certainly be much more of a struggle. This is exactly what we were missing in our Krishna consciousness lives when we attended a Pandava Sena retreat for the first time in 2007: loving relationships with other devotee youth. After the retreat ended, we realized how important it was to have strong relationships with other youth on the same path.

There is saying: “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” Therefore, if you want to achieve something in life, associate with those people who are also trying to reach that same goal. This is the purpose of the annual Pandava Sena retreat: to bring together youth who are trying to advance in spiritual life.

Since 2007, the Pandava Sena

tually became family, the second time we felt we were able to transcend beyond many struggles we were having at the time, the third time we realized what Srila Prabhupada meant by “simple living and high thinking,” and the fourth time...well we are waiting to waiting to find out.

We are happy to announce that the 2011 Pandava Sena Retreat is being hosted by the youth of ISKCON Houston from August 4-9, 2011. This is a chance for us to absorb our minds in the chanting of the holy names, experience rip-roaring kirtans, have mindblowing prasadam, and become inspired by each other and our wonderful speakers, HH Giriraj Swami, HH Gunagrahi das Goswami, HG Rukmini Devi Dasi,

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and HG Partha-Sarathi Das. The retreat is entitled, “Watering the Seed of Bhakti,” inspired

by His Holiness Giriraj Swami.

The retreat will be about seeing all our activities within Krishna Consciousness as means towards strengthening our relationship with the holy name. Through the chanting and hearing of the holy name, one waters the seed of bhakti within the heart and becomes reminded of one’s eternal relationship with the Supreme Lord. Thus, chanting and hearing is the core of everything we do.

It is the key to our spiritual success, and thus everything we do should be done for the purpose of strengthening our relationship with the holy name.

The Houston youth have been attending this annual retreat for the past three years in different cities.

For many of the Houston youth, the Pandava Sena retreat has changed our life. These retreats have brought our youth in Houston together. The retreat is an amazing, ecstatic, inspirational experience that has made us more serious about our spiritual lives by providing us the support network that we need. It has really helped us in building a network among ISKCON youth.

Certainly it is important for the future leaders of ISKCON to know each other in order to lead ISKCON in the future.

Franklin Delano Roosovelt once said, “We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future.”

These is exactly what this retreat is about: building the youth. The youth are the leaders of tomorrow, so it is important for youth to come together on common ground, share their ideas, and develop goals for the future, as the ISKCON youth are doing today.

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local s sisters Honored as leaders l SUGAR LAND: Poonam and Kalpana Vaidya have been selected by International Leadership Network (ILN) as two of 38 students in the United States to receive recognition as a 2011 Young Achiever. The Young Achievers program promotes community, national and international recognition for the positive accomplishments of young people. This early recognition encourages youth to achieve and helps them recognize their potential to be positive role models, leaders and mentors.

Young Achievers are students in grades 5-10.

Poonam is currently a student at Austin High School going into the 10th grade. Kalpana is currently at student at Sartartia Middle School going into the 8th grade.

Poonam and Kalpana, nominated by their teachers at their respective schools, are dynamic individuals.

Not only are they stellar students but they also participate in a variety of activities. Most recently, Poonam has been involved in the girl planning board for the Girl Scout National Convention to be held in Houston in November. Kalpana has been involved in making the day a little bit brighter for the elderly. Poonam and Kalpana both enjoy Girl Scouting (Poonam is working on her Gold Award and Kalpana just finished her Silver

Award.), dancing on their school’s dance team, and traveling.

They are both allaround great citizens and young scholars who will be very successful young adults.

ILN is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation. Its Young Achievers program appears on the National Association of Secondary School Principal’s Advisory List of Contests and Activities.

Young Achievers encourages student leaders by recognizingPoonam and Kalpana Vaidya in Istanbul, Turkey and applaudapplaud ing the positive achievements, behavior, leadership and service. INL received nominations from regional Young Achievers programs, educators, and youth leaders. Many youth organizations including Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, 4-H and Junior Achievement encourage nominations of their members.

For more information, visit www.llnleadnet.com.

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“sure, s sure, w can e we engineer a Picnic Indoors. l leave the Pool outside!” o

By Jawahar Malhotra SUGAR LAND: The Indian Institute of Technology graduates thousands of topnotch engineers and technocrats from its multiple campuses throughout India and many go on to work in multinational firms tackling complex projects throughout the world.

So dealing with the awesome heat and burning sunshine of this scorcher summer was no big deal for the annual picnic that the alumni of the IIT Alumnus of Greater Houston hold every year. The solution? Just move it indoors in the roomy clubhouse of the Lakes of Avalon.

“We learnt our lesson last year,” grinned Witty Bindra, who along with his other committee members organized this year’s social and networking gathering of about 60 people and their kids, young and old. “If you want to swim,” he added looking out through the huge bay windows at the pool that edged against the man-made lake, “You can. Just leave the wet clothes and feet outside!”

There was a magic show for the kids and food catered by Moghul restaurant (on Westheimer and Kirkwood) at the event that was sponsored by David Raj on behalf of his association with the Indo American Charity Foundation. And there was lots of time for others to mingle and ask the perennial question, “Which IIT are you from?”

Of course, several people were not from any, notably the chief guests for the picnic, newly elected Sugar Land councilman Harish Jajoo and Ft. Bend ISD President Sonal Bhuchar. Jajoo explained what it took for him to get elected and thanked those in the community who had worked hard for him. Bhuchar described how the education

Rakesh Vaidyanathan who was visiting family and friends in the Bayou City. He extended an open invitation to his fellow IITans to visit Brazil, “especially during Carnival (in March), which is really worth seeing.”

The IITAGH is already planning a professional networking in September their Fall picnic in October and is open to venues and other ideas. Call IITAGH President Prabhu Murugan at 713-725-3599, Witty Bindra at 281-303-6319 or Pradeep Anand at 281797-0797.

Board members of the IITAGH, along with alumni, flank Ft. Bend ISD Board of Trustee President Sonal Bhuchar (center left) and Sugar Land Coucilman Harish Jajoo (center in black shirt). (Right) Picnic organizers with sponsor, David Raj, President-elect of the Indo American Charity Foundation. Photos: Jawahar Malhotra

cuts by the state legislature had impacted Ft. Bend schools and the took the occasion to formally announce her candidacy as a Republican for State Representative from District 26 in the primary to be held next March.

(In a follow-up conversation at a private party later that evening, Sugar Land councilman Tom Abraham, who is term limited and has given signals over the past few months that he intended to run for the same position, expressed his disappointment that Bhuchar

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Pradeep Annand also introduced another speaker, an IIT alumnus from Sao Paulo, Brazil, Dr.

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“Guru Dakshina” in Houston rath r yatra y

By Chetana saMal It was a huge auditorium and a big convention. Many groups had already performed and audience was little bored and some of them had started leaving. The emcee announced the next group will be a performance with a difference! Guru Nityananda Das and his group will be performing ‘Guru Dakshina’- a real story! And the rest as they say is history…

Probably, my heart stopped a bit like many others. For next 20 minutes or so till the long chain of applause broke my chain of thought.

I couldn’t believe what I saw. It was a standing ovation with no stop in sight. The brilliant performance of the group had left the audience spell bound. The only difference, Odissi Dance maestro, Guru Nityananda danced with one leg – A bike accident in Orissa and lack of advanced medicine caused him to lose a leg.

The life altering accident as it would have been to anybody didn’t prevent him from pursuing his passion, doing what he loved to do always. His teacher, Guru Bimbadhar Das bolstered his confidence.

“You can do it as Sudha Chandran has done it in ‘Nache Mayuri’, he said again and again! Only with a difference, he didn’t have an artificial limb as Sudha had. With pure determination and faith in Lord, he is what he is today.

With an attempt to preserve our heritage, OCC has brought this group to perform this year on the occasion of Rath Yatra 2011. The program is open for all. With Lords on chariot, under the open sky, we all will sit together to enjoy this beautiful dance-drama, rightfully named “Guru Dakshina”.

Rath Yatra is on July 16 Nityananda Das is an example of the at India House from 4-10 undying human spirit pm

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Get r ready for Intense 2011: s sunidhi, Atif HOUSTON: Atif Aslam and Sunidhi Chauhan will perform in H-Town on July 9 at the Reliant Arena.

Sunidhi Chauhan is one of the most versatile singers Bollywood has ever seen. Chauhan’s breakthrough was Ram Gopal Varma’s Mast, in which she sang the hit song, Ruki Ruki Si Zindagi, alongside three other songs, including the title song itself. In an interview, while speaking of Mast, she said, “Whatever I am today, I owe to Mast. I met Sandeep Chowta through Sonu Nigam, and fifteen days later, Mast was in my lap. I was only sixteen then.”

Chauhan also sung for the Hindidubbed version of Disney’s movie, High School Musical - songs which were sung by Vanessa Anne Hudgens in the English version. Moreover, she was the singer of the English language song “Reach Out” at the opening ceremony of the 2006 Asian Games at Doha, Qatar.

2008 was a highly successful year for the young singer, as she went on to deliver a huge number of superhit songs like Chhaliya (Tashan), Rock Mahi, Lucky Boy, Desi Girl (Dostana), Dance Pe Chance (Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi), and Race Saanson Ki (Race), and which resulted in

her winning the “Kelvinator GR8!

FLO Women Award 2009” for her mind blowing contribution in Music. In April 2010, Chauhan joined Anu Malik and Salim Merchant as a judge on the fifth season of the immensely popular singing talent show, Indian Idol 5. Her latest song Shiela Ki Jawani from the movie Tees Maar Khan is the most talked about track in Bollywood today.

Atif Aslam is a widely recognized in South Asia and has given several hit songs such as Aadat, Woh Lamhe, Tere Bin, Pehli Nazar Mein, Tera Hone Laga Hoon, Tu Jaane Na, Tere Liye, Meri Kahani and Jalpari. He is best known for his powerful vocal belting tech-

Indo AmerIcAn news • FrIdAy, Ay, JUly 08, 2011 • onl A o Ine I edIt ItI It tIon: www.IndoAmerIcAn-news.com

nique. In 2008, he was awarded Tamgha-e-Imtiaz by the Government of Pakistan.

Aslam has also sung many songs for Bollywood films, like Pehli Nazar Mein in Race, Bakuda Tum Hi Ho in Kismat Konnection, Tera Hone Laga Hoon and Tu Jaane Na in Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani, both of which have been well-received by the Indian audience.

His last Indian venture was Faltu in which he sang Le Ja Tu Mujhe.

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Indo American News • Friday, July 08, 2011

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India’s Gourmet makeover!

The Indian food is increasingly going haute with the Indian palate becoming more experimental, more luxe. Chandana Banerjee peeps into that multicultural landscape called Indian kitchen and explores the trends and the reasons behind India’s gourmet makeover The buzz All of a sudden, why is it that a plate of dal-chawal has been relegated to the back burner while exotic dishes prepared with gourmet ingredients strut their stuff on the dining table?

“People want change, they are more willing to experiment, and more importantly, with globalization, they have travelled more extensively and tasted these foods and ingredients, and wish to try them out at home too,” explains Brij Gangaramani, Operations Manager at Estique, an exclusive boutique hotel in Pune. “Besides, these ingredients are more easily available too.”

Food shows hosted by dapper chefs and cooks, who can rustle up anything from a simple cake to a five-course meal in a matter of minutes, has also piqued people’s curiosity in cooking and eating everything that is exotic and international. “With Kylie, Jamie and Nigella entering our homes through TV, our curiosity and desire to create the foods we see on television has grown phenomenally,” muses well known food writer and blogger Rushina Munshaw-Ghildiyal.

What people are cooking with Rushina feels that “everything from fresh fruit and veggies such as heart of palm, fresh herbs and

dragon fruit and kumquats to exotic mushrooms, Thai ingredients, gourmet cheeses and meats, exotic

too. “For instance, Japanese cuisine uses a lot of exotic vegetables, which also provide health benefits.

meats like Rabbit and emu, spices from all over the world, flavoured oils and balsamic vinegar” are making cooking more interesting and exotic. “You can have the world on your plate today,” she says, adding that some of these ingredients and cuisines are healthy

But it’s a relative thing, depending on how you cook them.”

Sous Chef Sanjay Mitra, Le Meredien, Pune adds that ingredients like Calamata olives, exotic vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, different varieties of mushrooms, red and yellow peppers, bokchoy,

spring chicken, extra virgin olive oil, smoked paprika powder, squid ink, truffle/morel mushrooms, are finding their place of pride in the urban Indian’s kitchen.

What our experts love To help you understand what the world of gourmet ingredients is all about, our experts here tell us what they love and like to cook with. For Chef Sanjay Mitra, its Juniper berries, La ratte potatoes, Savoy cabbage, and Australian rack of lamb, while Brij Gangaramani has his own list of select ingredients.

“For me what are really exotic are things like balsamic vinegar, malt vinegar or white wine vinegar and apple cider. I also love using oils like garlic oil, tomato oil or chilli oil.” Brij also uses different types of mushrooms like Shiitake, Oyster, Portabello, Porcini or Button, and pine nuts for their texture and flavour. For Rushina, its glass noodles, rice paper, Sriracha sauce, Kaffir lime and Sinchuan

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peppercorn that must make the cut in her food shopping.

Cooking, gourmet style!

If you’ve just started cooking with gourmet ingredients, here are tips from our experts to help you fine tune your gourmet cooking.

Tips from Brij: - To keep herbs like basil, thyme and rosemary fresh for a much longer period, freeze them. Place a few leaves in water in your ice trays, and put in freezer. Whenever you need a few leaves, just take out those ice cubes.

- Never freeze cheeses. It tends to dehydrate them and make them hard and dry, even when you thaw them out.

- Never over-marinate. Also, it’s best to keep your marinade simple, or they will overpower the fish (or meat).

Tips from Sanjay: - When using these ingredients, keep in mind that they all have subtle and unique flavours, so do not combine them with ingredients which would over power their unique flavours.

- These ingredients make for fine dining cuisine so do not go on quantity, stress heavily on quality of the food. Choose a suitable wine to complement all the ingredients used. - Femina

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Indo American News • Friday, July 08, 2011

A Little Temple with a Big Heart

continued from page

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Live and Help Live Resonates with JAINA Conventioneers continued from page

from a meditating Saint on whom he had thrown a snake while walking in a forest. The saint cursed him to die in eight days and in search of some peace, Prikshad turned to other holymen for advice on overturning the curse.

They told him that the curse could not be overturned, but to listen to the whole Krishna lila (story of Krishna’s life), which he did at the feet of the sage Sukhdevmani by the banks of the Ganga. On the eight day, Prikshad received salvation and lost his fear of the beyond before he died. In this sense, reading the Bhagwat Katha is considered Dinkar Amatya, President of the an act of cleansing and Krishna Pranami Temple, in front purity. of the Pashupatinath Temple on the On the first day of the same site. event, nearly 500 people attended the festivities, with dis- the small kitchen in the back of the courses by the Swami and much main building. The festival carries celebration. A huge tent with giant on through Saturday, July 9 with ventilation fans was erected in the closing ceremonies and prayers parking lot under the burning Tex- beginning at 9am. as sun and humidity to accommodate the faithful for the three daily For more details, contact Saroj meals, which were prepared under Patel at 832-567-0947, Dr. Anil the supervision of Pavana Mistry, Mehta at 661-201-6447 or Dinkar Jagpriti Bhakta and Ashmitaben in Amatya at 832-922-0777.

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9

ton, Labdhi Jain from Chicago and the team of Nisha Khater and Jeel Mehta from Houston in the under 18 category.

The over 18 category winners were Texas Swag dance group of Houston, Akruti Jain from Miami, and Kinjal Shah from Germantown, Te n n e s s e e .

Pankti Gala, the team lead for the “Jains Got Talent” competition and her team put in countless hours to make the event successful.

Wrapping up the entertainment was a musical concert by Indian Idol 2010 winners duo Bhoomi Trivedi and Rakesh Maini who crooned Bollywood numbers and rocked the party goers away late into the night.

A parallel Jain Networking Forum (JNF) for youth and young adults was held concurrently for the entire four days, and included interactive and relevant youth oriented topics related to religion and

spirituality, Jain lifestyle and way of life. A Jain Academic Bowl quiz competition was also conducted

JAINA conventions to work towards. JAINA President-Elect Dr. Sushil Jain admired the spirit of

between teams from various Jain centers in the country. The youth also had multiple social events in the evenings with formal dinners and themed parties, and a standup comedy act by Paul Varghese.

The Jain Ratna award for 2011 was awarded to Girish Jain (of the Jain Center of Northern California) who has been a pillar of the JCNC and has worked with JAINA and Jain leaders to promote a non-sectarian structure for Jain organizations in North America.

As the 16th JAIAN Convention ended, it was apparent that the bar had been set really high for future

selfless volunteerism exhibited by the Jain Society of Houston, and deeply appreciative of the devotion towards the goal of hosting a successful convention a sentiment echoed by Jain Society of Houston President Ashish Bhandari and JAINA VP Southwest and convention mahasanghpati Udaichand Jain who congratulated the JAINA convention board and all the volunteers for a job well done.

Indo American News • Friday, JUly 08 , 2011 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com

For more information about JAINA and its programs, visit www.jaina.org.

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IN MEMORIAM: This interview was written in commemoration of Shri Rajarathna Bhattar’s 80th birthday in 2007.

The saintly gentleman passed away on July 5, 2011. He will be missed.

Community Celebrates 80th Birthday of the Well-loved Scholarly Priest: Sri Rajarathna Bhattar

By Kalyani Giri HOUSTON: The lives of great men all remind us that we can make our lives sublime, said Longfellow.

Every era, every generation, has its heroes. Some risk their lives to save others. Some extraordinary beings through their evolved spirituality and progressive ideology illumine the hearts and ignite the minds of their fellow mankind. This week marks the 80th birthday celebration of a sovereign jewel in the crown of the local Hindu community, Sri Rajarathna Bhattar, Priest Emeritus of the Sri Meenakshi Temple (MTS), Pearland.

His depth of knowledge of Hinduism, his humility and gentle demeanor, his wisdom, and his adeptness at adaptation while remaining intrinsically traditional, have endeared him to many in this city and nationally. He is unwavering in his devotion to Ambaal, or Sri Meenakshi. His philosophy is simple; he thrives in his belief that all God really expects of a devotee is a pure heart, and that service to the poor is service to God. Friends and family from the Indo American Hindu community and others, who have had the blessings of Bhattar Maama, as he is affectionately known, are expected to attend the grand prayer event honoring this great savant at the Sri Meenakshi Temple Kalyana Mandapam on December 22.

“Bhattar Maama is a magnificent manifestation of our shastras in person, and he has been a spiritual center of peace and calmness to us. In times of personal crisis he took us by the hand with love and guidance.” said Dr. Arun Mukhopadyay and Nalini Mukhopadyay who have long been associated with Bhattar Maama from the day he arrived in Houston to serve the temple in 1983. “I still picture him walking with bare feet from his trailer-home to the Ganesh temple clad only in a cotton dhothi in the cold winter like an old sage of yesteryear, so profound in his simplicity and sincerity. And when he rendered the mantras in raga, the vibrations stayed with us all day. He is irreplaceable,” added Dr. Mukhopadyay.

Sri Rajarathna Bhattar took over duties from his older brother Sri Thanga Bhattar, who had returned to India after performing the first kumbhabishekam at the temple in 1982. He came to this city when the present Sri Meenakshi Temple was only a cherished dream of the immigrant community. Standing on the plot of land on McClean Road in thethen underdeveloped Pearland were a shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha, and a lone barebones trailer-home that would serve as Bhattar Maama’s abode for the next few years. At the time there were only about 40 Indian Hindu families in this city. The temple incurred an income so low that devotees would pay the bills. Very often there wasn’t enough funds to meet Maama’s meager salary. Nonethe-

teach if the priests require guidance on any aspect of the rituals.

“Sri Rajarathna Bhattar accomodates different views and facilitates the changes,” said Sam Kannappan, a former chairman on the MTS board.

Padmini Ranganathan worked very closely with Bhattar Maama on the MTS pooja committee and considers him more like a father figure to her and other immigrants whose elders were back home in India. Like a multitude of other families locally, Ranganathan has a sentimental tradition of requesting Bhattar Maama to officiate at all religious or auspicious events held by her family.

“One has to admire how well he’s adapted to the diversity of this community. Whatever Maama does, however controversial it may seem, it is always out of his loyalty to the temple and he always offers a logical knowledgeable explanation. He understands that you cannot be rigid in terms of practicality. He is a pioneer

Shri Rajarathna Bhattar and wife Smt. Mangalam Bhattar undergoing the traditional rituals as they reiterated their wedding vows on his 80th birthday. Photos: Krishna Giri

less, he worked for months without an income and his only request was that he be made a lifetime member of Sri Meenakshi Temple.

“The early members were pure of heart and were sincere and dedicated.

They were working for the welfare of the temple, and had a hard work ethic,” reminisced Maama. “Our temple has reached this level through local support.”

“No work was too menial for Maama,” confided Dr. Nalinakshi Rangala. “After long hours at the temple, he would sweep and gather the trash and haul the garbage bags all the way to the dumpster on the road. He used to do the yard work and vacuum the office, there were no conveniences in those days,” said Dr. Rangala. Dr. Rangala coined fittingly, the term priest emeritus when Maama retired a few years ago; he still serves in an advisory position.

Maama survived the perilous wrath of Hurricane Alicia that effortlessly shoved his trailer-home far from where it originally stood. He also endured the destruction wrought by thieves that attempted to burglarize the temple of its meager possessions.

And he stymied the rattlesnakes that inhabited the lot.

The board of directors of MTS entrusted Bhattar Maama with the freedom to make decisions that would cater to the interests of all devotees.

The temple, an exemplar of the famed Meenakshi Temple in Madurai in South India, is the first Hindu temple in this country to be dedicated to a goddess and the third traditional Hindu temple to be built in North America. It was built primarily as a Saiva Agama temple, but the diverse community compelled the inclusion of the Vaishnava tradition of worship

according to the Pancharatra Agama.

Maama held onto the doctrine that there be no difference between the Saiva and the Vaishnava sects, and stressed that priests should respect both and perform poojas accordingly; this would prove to be a strong point in favor of the temple. He fulfilled principles upheld by his own family that regardless of caste, whoever came to the temple could perform the pooja and offer prasadam. The role of a priest, maintains Maama, is to respect devotees equally, whether they are rich or poor, child or adult, so that they worship and leave the temple with peace in their hearts. A priest, he offers, must be well-versed in the scriptures and must have a thorough understanding of the significance and meaning of every mantra.

“Sri Rajarathna Bhattar is a very open person,” said Beth Kulkarni, a founding member of the Indic Culture and Traditions Seminars (ICATS).

“Many people would have expected a priest from the Sri Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, since it is a temple of a long tradition, to want to do things as they have been done for generations.

But when I, not a Hindu by birth, first became a member of the board at Sri Meenakshi Temple, he was one of the persons who were most pleased. In fact, he told my husband that I must have done great tapas in a past life to be able to serve Sri Meenakshi in this life. The respect Sri Bhattar shows to all is something that I try to emulate,” said Kulkarni.

Like the storied Tamil poet, freedom fighter, and social activist Mahakavi Subramaniya Bharathiar before him, Bhattar Maama’s visionary ideology runs a close parallel in genius of thought. Where Bharathiar spoke up for women’s rights and for freedom

for India from British rule, Bhattar Maama actively yet non-combatively revolutionized rigid conformism into practical adaptability to suit the shift from India and the changes in the diaspora. Many questioned his judgement during the Maha kumbhabishekam of 1994, when he openly averred that anyone, regardless of caste or gender, should be permitted to carry the kalasams that would contain the water used in the sacred rituals, provided they observed the austerities stringently. His reasoning was that devotees of both genders carry water pots on their heads for abishekam at Pazhani Temple and no one questions them about caste. If a fabled institution could follow those principles, why not Sri Meenakshi Temple, he asked. He also readily performed inter-cultural marriages to accommodate the needs of the younger generation. Through his reasoning that funeral last rites be performed as a community service, the board of directors of the temple included in the contracts of all priests, the expectation that they should be prepared to provide the service. Maama to date, even though he retired in 1997, makes himself available to

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among priests because he served at a time when conveniences were not there. That he chose to live near the temple after retiring, brings added value and stature to our temple as an institution,” said Ranganathan.

Born in 1928 to Sri Swami Bhattar and Smt. Rajamma Bhattar in the holy city of Madurai, in South India, Sri Rajarathna Bhattar hailed from a lineage of males with hereditary rights to serve the Madurai Meenakshi Temple as Siva Acharyas or Saivite priests.

While it was not compulsory for the men to become priests, Maama was a seventh generation male in the family with the right to exercise the unique option. When he was just one year old, his father lost his vision in both eyes. So from a very young age, Bhattar Maama accompanied his father to the temple and observed him as he performed his sacred priestly duties.

After school each day, Maama and his older brother Sri Thanga Bhattar practiced the chanting of the ancient mantras, the effectiveness of which relied on the disciplines of concentration, correct pronunciation, and the accompanying modes of breathing.

A Sanskrit scholar was also engaged continued on page 19

18

editorial

Indo American News • Friday, July 08, 2011

Statehood for Telangana The storm over the controversial Telangana issue, having abated for a while, has returned as a hurricane with at least 14 Lok Sabha MPs and 82 MLAs from the state, cutting across party lines, having submitted their resignations. The bandhs and agitations planned at the behest of the Telangana.

Rashtra Samiti which is spearheading the separate statehood for Telangana campaign will mean another round of chaos and hardship for people in the state. The state government is not in immediate danger but the Centre will now be forced to act to contain the crisis.

The agitation got a fillip when the Centre, after promising in 2009 to initiate a consultative process for statehood, was unable to deliver. The Srikrishna Commission which submitted its report on the issue earlier was unable to come up with a solution acceptable to the pro-Telangana agitators. Its central theme was that a unified Andhra Pradesh with possible Union Territory status for Hyderabad could have been a workable option. The Centre which has asked for more time for the consultative process to come up with a solution by consensus has very few options which will work on the ground. One is to accept a separate state which then raises the question of the status of Hyderabad. The other is to have a time-bound programme to devolve powers to an eventual state and the third would to have a special and extremely generous package for the Telangana region but stop short of a separate state. The Congress governments both at the state and Centre are caught between the devil and the deep sea. Any attempt to grant Telangana would mean unrest in Rayalaseema which opposes a division of the state. The Maoists could take advantage of a fledgling state and regroup after having been on the backfoot for quite a while. But as is the wont with such emotionally charged agitations, the pro-Telangana protestors have adopted an intractable position.

The usual ploy of endless consultations and discussions hoping that the issue will die down is not likely to work this time given the support across the political spectrum. Hundreds of people have died and many students have lost at least one college year, thanks to endless bandhs and violence over this issue. In these troubled waters, the BJP has also begun fishing for political dividends in a state which it has yet to crack. The best that the Centre can do is to agree to introduce the statehood bill as early as possible and hope that it is able to iron out contentious issues through deft bargaining. This is the only way that the Centre can keep its head above the water even as the hurricane does its worst.

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Baap Re Baap

By Sharmila Ravinder Style is something that many try very hard to acquire. It remains not within every one’s reach; no matter how long or how hard they try to acquire it. It could be the way one speaks, one walks, one conducts himself / herself or even the way one dresses that evokes a wide range of reactions. Gasps, whistles and claps are typical receptivity to the now very ‘rare’ style icons and this is how I reacted when I watched the stylish man in the preview of Bbuddah hoga tera baap today. Amitabh Bachchan at the age of 68 is the ‘baap’of them all, in every sense of the word. When the villain in the movie Prakash Raj exclaims with absolute enthrallment ‘Baap re Baap’ at a Harley Davidson strutting Amitabh Bachchan, one cannot help but utter exactly the same words with absolute enchantment.

Amitabh Bachchan is back, the way I wished to see him. I have missed seeing him like this in all these years. He has the swagger, he is oozing with ambrosial appeal and majority of his dialogues are cocky, potent and virile! It almost appears as if the director Mr Puri Jagannath has read our minds, he has gift wrapped and delivered Amitabh Bachchan to us on celluloid. The perfect Christmas present that has arrived five months early and we celebrate it this monsoon. If you are an ardent Bachchan fan, this is the movie for you. An absolute entertainer where the second half builds up at a fast tempo and the dialogues between Prakash Raj (the villain) and Amitabh Bachchan in the penultimate scene is a riot. An apt choice by Puri to cast the multi faceted Prakash Raj for the villainous role. The story develops at a perky cadence in the first half with a nice little twist and then moves more rapidly in the second half. The ‘Go Meera Go’ number is

fun and Abhishek’s rap is infectious.

The famous baritone voice delivers “ Haal e dil” to utmost perfection. The Punjabi hit number too is one most anticipated. The movie is an all out entertainer and adequate garnishing of southern flavours have befittingly spiced up the movie to deliver a nice fusion. My favourite part of the movie is where Bachchan sings a couple of lines from the popular Tamil ‘kuthu’ song “ Appadi podu podu”.

Bbuddah allows you to sit in a time capsule and it takes you back in time, to the time when the angry young man dominated the annals of Hindi cinema and set it ablaze, the jubilee times, the times of Bachchan mania.

It is even clearer today why and what the magic has been about. It revolves around one man.

Very few Actors dominate entirely with their screen presence and Bachchan does this consistently. The Director has done well to ensure that the supporting cast have been provided reasonable fuel to race along with Bachchan. After Bachchan, it is undoubtedly Prakash Raj that aces his role.

The other part is the Bbuddah campaign by itself, which has been rather interesting. Amitabh Bachchan has a sincere fan following and it has been intriguing to observe what some of them have done in the last few weeks for their idol. His loyal fans, (his extended family) are spread out in different parts of the world

IndoAmerican News Founder: Dr. K.L. Sindwani Editor: Pramod Kulkarni Business Manager: Jawahar Malhotra Managing Partner: Krishna Giri Community Reporter: Kalyani Giri Community Editor: Manasi Gokhale Administrative Manager: Vanshika Vipin Business & Recreation: Jacob David Graphic Design: Saqib Rana correspondents Chicago: Nand Kapoor, UK: Aseem Kulkarni New Delhi: Raj Kanwar ®All rights reserved. No material herein or portions thereof may be published without the written consent of the publisher. The deadline for advertising and articles is 5 pm on Monday of each week. Please include self-addressed, stamped envelope for return of all unsolicited material. Published at 7457 Harwin Drive, Suite 262, Houston, Texas 77036. Tel: 713-789-NEWS or 6397 Fax: 713-789-6399, email: indoamericannews@yahoo.com, website: indoamerican-news.com

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and have mobilized themselves, distributing T-shirts, stickers and posters of the movie. An innovative way has been developed in Mumbai to promote the movie. Bachchan’s fans have mustered the local dabbawalas and have placed stickers on the lunch dabbas that have been distributed through Mumbai’s maze. The beach boys around Juhu and Gateway of India too wear Bbuddah Tshirts and sell their wares. Very few celebrities interact, appreciate and regularly communicate with fans and over the years, Amitabh Bachchan has successfully developed a platform where fans congregate and march with him, through thick and thin. This is the hallmark of graceful celebrities. The only other person in the industry who evokes similar sentiments is Rajnikanth. But for now, my senses are satiated with the Bachchan mania. Bachchan has proved in his stylish way, he is indeed the Baap of them all. I again exclaim like Prakash Raj “ Baap re baap”! TOI

Reader Feedback When Baap acts, the all the kids need to seat and watch the nuance of screen presence and acting. As you said the last 15 mins was too good giving a dose of management lesson to all of us and also fact that it is a small dose of what he was in mid 80’s to all we indians( Growing up with him in age) a prefect mix of angry young man and comedy(a La Namak Halal).

As said by the director in the last slide truely a tribute to him.Also thanks to Mr. Prakash raj for matching him in the strides of acting. Truely Baap re Baap. Thanks Mr. Puri Jagganath for reviving him what he capable of.

Mahesh P.

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Indo American News • Friday, July 08, 2011

19

w well-loved scholarly Priest, sri s s r rajarathna Bhattar continued from page 17 to teach the brothers the oldest sacred Hindu texts, the Vedas. Intensive study of the Kaavya Shastras with the words, grammar, and rules of the Sanskrit language, was mandatory for the implicit understanding of the Agamas, the complex theological treatises and practical manuals of divine worship. The treatises explain the external worship of God, in idols, and in temples, and also give elaborate details about ontology and cosmology, liberation, devotion, meditation, philosophy of mantras, mystic diagrams, temple-building, domestic observances, social rules, and public festivals.

The Bhattar familyís finances were shaky but Maama was eager to attend college and study Carnatic music.

Good fortune favored him with a benefactor none other than the late Carnatic music stalwart and professor of music at the Annamalai University in Chidambaram, Madurai Somasundram, who helped Maama secure a scholarship. After four years and armed with a degree in music, Maama started teaching at a school of music he established in Chidambaram. But his mother took ill, and he returned to Madurai. In 1961 he mar married Mangalam, a young lady from his own sub-sect. Sadly his mother passed away 15 days later. In 1963, he was inducted as priest following the Acharya Abhishekam ceremony performed before a sacred homam,

which ritualistically transmutes an individual of human birth into the divine, to be committed to god. In 1979 the opportunity arose for Bhattar Maama to serve as Chief Priest at the Veera MahaKali Amman Temple in Singapore, a stint of two years.

Later he moved to the Vada BadraKali Amman Temple also in Singapore. In 1983 he came to Houston.

Maama’s life partner Smt. Mangalam joined him here in the latter 80’s with their young son Swami.

The couple also has two daughters who reside in India. Maama confided that living in the US has enhanced his self-education. He continues to nurture his mind by learning more about the Agamas and the Vedas. Visit their home in Pearland and you’re engulfed in the warmth of their welcome and old-world hospitality. Swami has followed tradition and married within their community. Maama and Smt. Mangalam are loving parents and grandparents.

“Children imitate parents, so if you bring them up with love and respect, they will give that to you and to their own families,” said Maama.

This past week, goodwill, greetings, and tributes were pouring in from community leaders and admir admirers of Bhattar Maama.

“I can’t believe he’s 80! He’s very vibrant and makes me feel very comfortable when I visit the temple,” said the Mayor of Pearland, Hon. Tom Reid. “We’ve known each other for

many years and we are always so happy to see each other,” added the mayor.

“There is nothing greater than serving the community and Bhattar ji does this very well. I offer him heartiest congratulations on this special occasion,” said Acharya Gaurang Nanavati of the Chinmaya Mission.

Leela and Nat Krishnamurthy from the local community recalled affectionately that Maama performed the marriages of their three children, all under unusual circumstances. He is always prevailed upon to conduct poojas in their home. “ “Maama is the most flexible and most adaptable priest. When our daughter Gita married Stephen Cugley at the Malibu Lake Club Gardens in LA, he had to adapt to doing the ceremony outdoors. He performed the marriage of our son Sanjay in Detroit during that infamous blackout of 2002, when there wasn’t electricity in the city. For our family he is like the pope, the most important person,” said Leela Krishnamurthy.

“I wish Sri Bhattar a long healthy life,” said former president of Kannada Vrinda, Vatsa Kumar. ”When he speaks to me, he ends every conversation with the words Ambaal Aashirvatham. It is a very special benediction from a very great man,” added Vatsa Kumar. Ambaal Aashirvatham, Bhattar Maama.

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Indian s student Goes m missing in lA l

Missing teen Lovedeep Singh.

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Singh apparently remained outside when the rest of the group went into the Radisson Hotel. His absence was noticed when a head count was taken an hour later and group leaders

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There was no sign that Singh met with foul play, but “as each day passes, our concern heightens,” Davenport said. The boy was described as 5-foot-8, weighing 130 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a gray shirt and tan pants and carrying a red backpack.

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LOS ANGELES: Police Thursday searched for a 15-year-old boy from India who vanished in Los Angeles a week ago after arriving with a group for an educational tour of California.

Five LA detectives flew to San Francisco to interview members of Lovedeep Singh’s tour group at the Indian Consulate, Lt. Darnell Davenport said. Singh, who speaks Hindi and only limited English, was snapping photographs in front of a hotel across the street from the University of Southern California when he vanished on the morning of June 23.

He and his 10-year-old brother were in a group of about 30 people who had just arrived for an educa-

20

Indo American News • Friday, July 08, 2011

Tapjoy r raises $30 m mn for App SANTA CLARA (Silicon India): California-based Tapjoy, monetization and distribution services for social and mobile gaming applications, has raised $30 million in the fourth round of funding for its app marketing and monetization business. The deal was led by J.P. Morgan and all the existing investors participated in the funding.

Founded in 2007, Tapjoy monetizes and distributes services for social and mobile gaming applications, MMOs, Virtual worlds, social platforms and other publishers selling virtual goods or premium digital assets. Their alternative platform solutions enable developers to increase payment conversions and generate incremental revenue, while their corss-platform distribution channel delivers cost-effective user acquisition and re-engagement services across iOS, Android, Yahoo!, Google, Windows Live and other leading web sites and containers.

The company management team is led by seasoned Internet, gaming and advertising industry executives. Top-tier venture capital firms InterWest Partners, North Bridge Venture Partners, Rho Ventures and D.E. Shaw Ventures back them. They are headquartered in San Francisco and have an office in London.

Mihir Shah, CEO, Tapjoy, said that they have a profitable business but it wants to increase the investment on a variety of levels. They have a strong presence across port-

Mihir Shah, CEO, Tapjoy folio of businesses that market apps on mobile platforms and the web, he said. Besides Apple, they have invested largely in the Android, Windows Phone & and HTML5 markets. They are also focusing on other platforms by launching a $5 million Android developer fund.

They have earlier raised $21 million in January and $71 million since 2007. Prior to Janurary, they had raised $51 million. The company currently have 10,000 app developers with about 20-30 million unique mobile users a day.

With an extensive background in social media/social apps, consumer behavior, advertising, direct mar marketing and new media as well as in scaling growth-stage companies, Mihir Shah previously had worked as VP and GM for Direct Selling Solutions at QuinStreet.

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India’s Top o outsourcing Firms u under Fire

By Jyoti thottam Allegations of visa fraud have been a constant complaint by critics of the outsourcing industry, who say that firms misuse complex U.S. immigration laws to get their Indian employees to work in the United States.

That’s the subject of the investigation underway now against Infosys. It started with an Alabama lawsuit filed in February by an Infosys project manager, Jack Palmer, who is still employed by the company. Infosys has denied the charges and says it is reviewing its policies internally.

In May, the company disclosed that it has been subpoenaed by a grand jury in Texas for information about its use of business visas, but did not reveal details.

The Alabama case, and the increased scrutiny of the industry, is hurting every major Indian IT company. India’s largest outsourcing firm, TCS, came out publicly on the issue this week, speaking to one of India’s business news channels to say the whole issue was overblown, and that the firm would do well this year despite challenges. TCS CEO N. Chandrasekaran also rejected the findings of a report from the brokerage firm CLSA Asia Pacific, which argued that the combination of tightened visa norms and dampened demand from the U.S. would hurt its results this year, and that of other companies: “We see the visa issue fundamentally altering the business model for Indian techs,” the report said. Firms like TCS have been touting their robust hiring within the U.S. as an answer to their

immigration officials, Mr. Bashyam says, the worker was ultimately denied the visa. “This employee has never violated his H-1B immigration status, and his employer carefully followed all relevant laws, but the employee is now stuck in India,” Mr. Bashyam writes. “This type of ‘gotcha’ immigration policy should never exist in this country.”

That frustration — in this case by an employee who says he followed all the rules — might be the thing that forces IT companies to stop pushing the boundaries of acceptable visa practice, and forces the U.S. to come up with work visa rules that are simpler and less prone to abuse. Here’s a sign that’s already happening: In this morning’s Mint, an Indian business daily, reporters People walk through Infosys Malia Politzer and SurabTechnologies Ltd. headquarters hi Agarwal recount the in Bangalore (Namas Bhojani / story of “X” - a Wipro emBloomberg / Getty Images) ployee who says he went along with the company’s allegedly questionable visa policies soaring rates of rejected visas: “Many are complaining that long until they landed him in immigration delays and unfair rejections are be- custody and have made it difficult coming common, regardless of how for him to travel to the U.S. even as scrupulously they observe laws and a tourist. It concludes: “They (recruiting companies) requirements. North Carolina immigration lawyer Murali Bashyam don’t tell you how it could affect recounts an episode in which a U.S. you in the future,” said X. “Unless employee for an Indian I.T. firm he this happens to you personally or a represents traveled to India to get friend or someone you know, I don’t married and applied for a new H-1B think anyone is fully aware of the visa while he was there. After two repercussions.” months of delays and harassment by critics, but they can’t do that on a large scale without hurting its profitability.

Wage arbitrage is still a driver of profitability for these firms, despite their efforts to move into higher-skill, higher-margin businesses and to look for growth outside of the U.S. and Europe.

Amol Sharma notes in the India Real Time blog the “growing frustration” of Indian workers who ultimately bear the personal costs of the

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Treasure of Gold, Gems w worth $11.2 Billion unearthed from Padmanabhaswamy Temple u

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By ananthaK nanthaKri KriShnan hnan G THIRUVANANTHAPURAM (TOI): Treasure continued to tumble out of the Sree Padmanabha Swamy temple in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday with a Supreme Courtappointed committee finding more gold idols, coins and other assets on the sixth day of inspection in the shrine’s hidden vaults.

Among the notable discoveries was an ancient gold idol of Lord Vishnu studded with precious diamonds and emeralds. Sources said its value could not be assessed due to its antiquity.

There were also human figurines made of pure gold, each weighing 1 kg as well as 18-foot-long jewelery weighing 35 kg used to adorn the deity. Bags of coins and precious stones were also found in the chamber marked A. Unconfirmed reports said the total value of all assets recovered from the shrine could be worth Rs 75,000 crore.

The temple has six vaults marked A to F. On Saturday, the committee completed stock taking in vault A. They had already drawn up the inventory of items in C, D and F. The B chamber, which hasn’t been unsealed after 1872, and the E vault remain to be opened. The inspection will continue on Monday.

The state police has decided to put in place a three-tier security for the shrine which has emerged as the richest in India. Additional Director General of Police Venugopal K Nair, who is given charge of the temple security, said “We have only begun the process. A detailed plan will be

Unconfirmed reports said the total value of all assets recovered from the shrine could be worth Rs 75,000 crore.

put in place soon.”

At present, two platoons of special armed police have been deployed for the shrine’s security.

Acting on a petition, the Kerala high court had in January asked the state government to take over the administration of the temple and also prepare aninvetory of its assets. The shrine is run by a trust constituted by the royal family. On appeal, the SC stayed the take over part but gave nod to stock-taking.

History has it that the shrine is inextricably linked to the Travancore royal family. The erstwhile ruler of Travancore Marthanda Varma had dedicated the state and all his wealth to the deity and ruled as ‘Padmanabha Dasa (servant of Padmanabha), who consequently gained the status of nominal head or ‘perumal.

According to legend, the Travancore kings had transferred loads of wealth, meant for use during famines to these secret chambers to protect them from the British.

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Making A Difference: Foster Parent Joseph and His Family

By Soma Basu CHENNAI (The Hindu): Several urban surveys show that modern day couples are either delaying childbirth or think twice before having a second child. Many are content with none or one given either their busy work schedule that leaves them with no time for parenting or it boils down to the question of affordability.

But here is one individual, right in our temple town, who has two dozen children, has raised 473 children so far since 1987 and wants to bring up a thousand children.

Joseph Benziger may not be the biological father of these kids but as a foster father his love and care for all these poor or orphaned children has been more than what these young hearts could have asked for.

And he insists, that he “does not run an orphanage”. “It is my home where I bring them up. There is a difference,” he asserts.

Indeed. There are surprises in store when you visit the “Bethany Children’s Home” in Arasaradi.

It is like any other ordinary home where two dozen children make all the noise they can. But it is also a place where discipline too comes calling; Where love and warmth overflows; Where without any domestic help, each member of the family shares work and contributes in running the large family.

It is a home that has connected and integrated children from the age

Joseph Benziger and his family. Photo: Soma Basu

of three to 16 years coming from different economic status into one large unit.

Watching them play, sharing their joy, helping their parents, it is difficult to guess that they are not siblings by blood. Just two months ago, they had an addition following a phone call from Karpayuruni police station wanting to hand over a three year old girl baby who can neither speak nor hear. She was found loitering near Pandi Koil when a nearby tea kiosk owner took pity on her. But she couldn’t fend her for long and sought help from the police.

Joseph has named her Abhinaya and within no time, she has become

the darling of the family, especially her father now dotes on her. He is making visits to ENT and neurosurgeons to find out whether the child can be treated for her disability.

Says Joseph with all humility: “My children get everything they want. We have never seen affluence but have experienced happiness.”

His wife, Rosary, like any typical mother, has taken upon herself the task of bathing and feeding the children, washing their clothes. She prepares breakfast and dinner for all her 25 kids, bathes them each morning and sends them off to school. “The morning rush hour is obviously one chaotic moment in the household, but the elder ones

help the younger ones to get ready. They also help me in cleaning the house, cutting vegetables and other small errands,” she shares.

Their daughter, Amli, helps the children with homework and exam preparations after returning from office. Says Joseph, he was lucky enough to find this house with a Government-aided school (Rajam Vidyalayam) within walking distance.

“I don’t have to spend for their transportation and they get their mid-day meal in school.”

When Joseph left pastorship in Thoothookudi and came to Madurai in 1987, his agenda was clear. Having joined the Catholic Diocese of Tuticorin at the age of 17 years, he wanted to “do something more tangible.” He had the opportunity of close interaction with the fishermen’s community learning about their nomadic existence with every good catch and how their children suffered good education and a good life because of this.

Joseph first arrived in Madurai with a 10 year old boy who had lost his father and his mother was too poor to fund his education and a girl from Rameswaram. He got them admitted to the school and took care of them as his own children. When

Indo American News • Friday, july 08 , 2011 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com

they returned to their respective villages during summer vacation, they told all about their loving foster parents and in fact returned with half a dozen children more.

Gradually as the word spread, more children from Madurai started entering his family. “My landlord was very kind, when he saw my family expanding, he offered to sell his house. It was a boon as he let me pay the amount over four years.

We modified it according to our requirements.”

At any given time, Joseph and Rosary have at least 25 children with them of all ages, who leave either after middle or high school in search of jobs. For the brighter children, Joseph even tries to arrange for their college education with the help of sponsors. All his elder children who were with him in the initial struggling years are now settled and occasionally send their “daddy” donations to continue to take care of the large family.

“Once I bring them here, they get everything free, food, shelter, education, clothes. I don’t expect anything in return from my children.

My aim is to take them out of their misery and poverty and provide them with an opportunity to lead a good quality life. It is my dream to do so for 1,000 children.”

If there are more Josephs around with the same purpose in life, what a difference it would make to society.

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IameNtertaINmeNtNews

Movie Reviews

Tashi (Imran Khan), Arun (Vir Das) and Nitin (Kunaal Roy Kapur) are flat mates, buddies and partners in crime. Tashi is about to get married in a month; but still doesn’t know if his fiancee is ‘The One’!

Arun can’t make up his mind who he wants to kill first - his girlfriend (who has just dumped him) or his stupid, annoy-ing boss (whose idea of creativity is sketching a smilsmil ing banana). And Nitin is about to discover that eating delicious ‘tandoori chicken’ off a street vendor is going to give him the worst case of Delhi Belly – he’s ever known! Three regular blokes, living the regular life except for one small detail – they are on the ‘hit list’ of one of the

world’s deadliest crime syndicates. He is ably supported by writer Akshat Verma who pens a script which is unpretentious and bold to the core without making it sound cheap or vulgar and kudos to him for that. The screenplay is fast paced and has lots of twists and turns while the dialogues are real and funny

Indo American News • Friday, July 08, 2011

23

Imran successfully breakthrough from his boy-nextdoor kind of an image and puts up a bravura act, Vir Das is not only a stand-up comedian but a brilliant actor as well. Kunaal is the best of the lot with his antics bringing the house down whenever he comes on the screen. We wish to see him in more movies.

To cut it short, ‘Delhi Belly’ may not be path breaking cinema, but if you have an appetite for watching some kick ass stuff – do yourself a favour. Watch Delhi Belly now!!! You can’t afford to miss this one. At the box office, this film will justify the tagline of the film – when ‘Shit Happens’ – ‘Hit happens’!

- PlanetBollywood

y l l e B i h l e d to the core. Not once do you feel during watching the film that the liberal use of abusive language was not required; as it has been woven smartly and there can be simply no offense to that. Performancewise, Imran, Vir and Kunaal are a complete riot. While

“Aishwarya Hid Pregnancy from us”: madhur Bhandarkar

By Bharti duB u ey (TOI) Director Madhur Bhandarkar who’s been blamed for throwing out Aishwarya Rai from his dream project finally breaks his silence.

Bhandarkar on his blog writes,”Today I am sitting alone in my office after the plugs being pulled off from my film Heroine...

My conscience stands clear as I have been honest to my craft irrespective of the repercussions.... No which way would I have trampled my dream project on which I have given my sweat and blood for almost 1 1/2 years.... This was going to be my most ambitious project of my career... My inherent belief is that motherhood is pious and I am humbled by it. I must also add that I salute every woman who chooses to work in this extremely delicate state.

To put things in perspective, I am a man who is surrounded by women in my family. My wife, my sister, my mother and my daughter.... These are the people that make my life! In fact my wife when she was carrying my daughter worked through her pregnancy....but in the same breath I would like to say that I will never knowingly put a woman in harm’s way knowing the delicate nature of her health. ‘” Bhandarkar who is known to made women oriented films like Chandni Bar, Satta and Fashion blogs further,``My entire career stands on the strong pillars of women oriented films. This stems from the fact that I am sensitive to the entire aura and mystique of a woman and womanhood.’’

Speaking about his film Heroine Bhandarkar said,``this is no normal film which can be shot in couple of locations with handful of actors...

Heroine a film entails a huge canvas of around 40 locations in which heavy duty scenes involving massive crowds are to be shot.... Scenes

of the actress being mobbed by the crowds... adult content... the regular song and dance sequences.... heavy duty scenes of involving hardcore physical exertion...there are scenes with high emotional content which can take a massive toll on any normal human psyche... One of the days amongst the only 8 days shoot... one of my associate directors while rehearsing for the actress tripped and had a bad fall injuring himself... The terrain we were shooting was rocky.

Today when I know the condition of my then lead actress (Ash)and I shudder at the thought what if instead of my associate she would be the one to be injured; I would have suffered a major guilt throughout my life if anything were to happen to her on my guard and direction Never mind a star, if a female technician, in the same state, is on the set, we take extreme precaution to see that she is as far as possible from harm’s way.’’

He further divulges, ``The lead actress was required to smoke on screen....but even if she chose not to smoke for the camera; there are other actors smoking in the same frame entailing to passive smoking which would prove detrimental to a pregnant woman’s health’’ Bhandarkar pleads innocence on the knowledge of Aishwarya Rai’s pregnancy at the time of the launch of the film. He even hints that he would not have started the film had he known about her pregnancy. He blogs, ``The entire event would not have taken place if on the onset the actress would have informed the state of her health an impending maternity.... The truth was hidden from us. We learnt about the entire thing from news channels like the rest of the world that the said actress was 4 months pregnant and she was due on November... Film making in Mumbai film industry is not a mere business but one big fraternity who

functions on total faith and trust.

The film was announced in Cannes on 13th May while we commenced shooting on 7th June.... There was a gap of 24 days even if we had known the truth behind the maternal state of the actress... things could have been reworked keeping the state of matters in mind accordingly and this crisis could have been averted.’’

The entire crisis would have taken a humungous shape had the truth not being unveiled when it was.... With 65 days of shooting remaining.... It would make the concerned actress 6-7 months pregnant.... Cinema is a visual medium and keeping in mind the physical state of the actress the total interpretation of the character of a diva and the story would land up in major jeopardy post 65 days of her pregnancy... This decision of pulling the plug had a devasting effect on me

... It was like an avalanche collapsing on me... I was in a state of total shock and depression... I have been working on the script for almost a year and a half.... I could not come to the office for almost 8 days for the fear of facing those people whose bread and butter depended upon the film... because in true sense these people were the worst affected by the turn of events...

It was a collective decision of the Producers of the film to pull off the plug on the current assembled project.... It takes a heart of steel to take such a hard decision... and it cannot be done on mere whims but stoic and solid reasoning.

I am still reeling in a state of shock....

But still chose to remain silent all these days; but was coerced into breaking my silence... as I realized that truth deserved to be told.

Indo AmerIcAn news • FrIdAy, Ay, july 08 , 2011 • online A o edition: www.indoamerican-news.com

always Kabhi Kabhi

‘Always Kabhi Kabhi’ is a story of four unique lives trying to compete with the pressures of growing up and the firsts we all experience in school. From crushes to classes, from bunking to break-ups.Amodern age Romeo named Sameer (Ali Fazal) whose biggest theory of living life is through shortcuts.

Who has eyes only for his Juliet, this dreamy eyed girl called Aishwarya Dhawan (Giselle Monteiro) who is a new admission in school.

Aish leads a life, which is lived by her; but designed by her mother.

Tariq (Satyajeet Dubey) is Sam’s best friend and the geek who has the cheek to be cool but carries the burden of having to excel at everything. His sole ambition is to study and to try staying out of Nadini’s way. Nandini (Zoa Morani) is the school brat; who you love to hate and hate to love. Living life on her terms and breaking rules to make her own makes Nandini; the most envied girl in school and no one agrees to that more than Tariq.

It’s the final year at St. Marks, and they begin with a lot of excitement. Principal Khan and Ms. Das have decided that the school was going to participate in the interschool ‘Shakespearewallah’ contest and present Romeo and Juliet!. he other cast includes Satish Shah, Lilette Dubey, Mukesh Tiwari, Manoj Joshi, Akash Khurana, Navneet Nishan whose roles aren’t well defined and hence does not leave any impact whatsoever.

Vijay Raaz is wasted.

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Indo American News • Friday, July 08, 2011

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most controversial w women Politicians in India

BANGALORE (SI): Today women in India have ventured in every sector and not only have been achieving great heights but have been able to dominate in each one. Politics is one field where today’s women have attracted the most eyeballs. The World’s largest democracy has been one of the primary countries who witnesses a meager women participation in the political field and India felled in the lowest quartile with respect to the number of women in parliament with 9.1 percent in 14th Lok Sabha with respect to other countries like Rawanda (56.7 percent), south Africa (44.5 per percent), UN’s 2008 survey of women in politics. The Congress party, led by a woman and supposedly pushing for reservation for women, has only 10 per cent of women among the candidates announced so far. For the BJP the proportion of women candidates is even lower at 7 per cent.

The rise of women in politics became even more significant with the emergence of some of the most controversial women in Indian politics.

Although as per the statistics and number India lacks far behind in women participation in politics but still India has produced women politicians who has always able to snatch the limelight and grabbed the headlines from her male counterparts and have kept them on their toes with their controversial statements.

Here are some of the most controversial women politicians that we have brought forth for our readers.

Mayawati Mayawati is controversy favorite child and she caught the eyeballs with a controversial statement, where she mentioned B R Ambedkar and not Mahatma Gandhi, who worked to erase caste from Indian society. She went on to say that Gandhi’s use of the term Harijan was against the Constitution. She further state that Gandhi tried to divide society into two groups and even gave a name to the weaker sections. ‘’He called them Harijans which is against the Constitution. In the Indian Constitution, the weaker sections are called Scheduled Castes and Tribes,’’ said Mayawati, Chief Minister, Uttar Pradesh.

In Jan 2008 she sent euphoria in the Tollywood actors by commenting that film stars were good for ‘song and dance’ and not for public service. Veteran producer and former

NFDC (National Film Development Corporation) Chairman LV Prasad, demanded that she seek apology from the Telugu film industry in 48 hours.

In 2008 Forbes magazine named her as one of the world’s most powerful women. Mayawati has also grabbed news for investing huge money on

Mamata Banerjee

Mayawati statue construction which created huge hue and cry in the state.

She is famous for her controversial speech especially during her election campaigns. She tells them that she is proud to have been born into a Dalit family. Her speech follows the popular line where she says, “I am the daughter of a Chamar (a Dalit). I am a Chamar. I am yours.”

Mamata Banerjee She is one of the most dynamic women politicians India has produced. She definitely knows how to stay on news. She came in controversy for openly supporting Maoists and the Left, BJP joined hands in the Rajya Sabha to slam Trinamool Congress chief for her controversial remarks on the killing of Maoist leader Azad. She however stuck to her controversial remarks on Maoist leader Azad’s ‘murder’ and said she was proud of her stand. On 20 October 2005, she protested against the forceful land acquisition and the atrocities on local farmers in the name of industrial development policy of the Buddhadev Bhattacharya government in West Bengal. Benny Santoso, CEO of the Indonesia-based Salim Group had pledged a large investment to West Bengal, and the West Bengal government had given him farmland in Howrah, sparking protest.

Despite soaking rain, Mamata and other Trinamool Congress members stood in front of the Taj Hotel where Santoso had arrived, shut out by the police. Later, she and supporters fol-

elections next year and that there will be no compromise on Hindutva and Ram. Recently she lashed out at Congress spokesman Digvijay singh calling him Rahul Gandhi’s Stepney Jayalalitha Jayalalitha is another child of controversy. She made raves for her alleged support to the LTTE. The allegation has been made due to her forming a coalition with LTTE well wishers such as Vaiko. The for former Chief Minster denied the report said that she holds a strong position

Jayalalitha

resulted in several legal actions being lowed Santoso’s convoy. A planned brought against her, mainly involv“black flag” protest was avoided, ing charges of embezzlement and when the government had Santoso monetary fraud. In 2001, a specially arrive 3 hours ahead of schedule. designated court convicted her of She has grabbed headlines for her criminal breach of trust and of illestrong opposition against deloying gally acquiring governmental propsingur land to Tata’s. In November erty belonging to TANSI, a state-run 2006, Mamata Banerjee was forcibly agency. She was sentenced her to five stopped on her way to Singur for a years’ imprisonment but appealed to rally against a proposed Tata Motors the Supreme Court. As the conviction car project. Mamata reached the West stood until the outcome of the appeal Bengal assembly and protested at was decided, she was disqualified the venue. However the Singur issue from contesting the 2001 elections. has been pulled to court where the The showdown between karuSupreme Court held that the land will nanithi and Jaylalitha is not hidden be stayed with the government unless from anyone and the 2G scam has Uma Bharati final verdict is announced. kept both the personalities engaged.

Uma Bharati against the LTTE and stated that she Every now and then she has been Uma Bharati has a status of a fulfilled a pioneering task in banning making comments on Karnimozi’s monk and she has always grabbed the LTTE in India. involment on 2G scam. When asked the headlines for her staunch supDue to several allegations of cor cor- on kanimopzi bail plea and if she port for Hindutvawadi who refuses ruption and malfeasance against her should be granted bail she said, “No, to compromise and believes that and her ministers, she lost power to It’s a wrong argument for bail. In poliBJP’s fundamental character and the D.M.K in 1996. Her first term tics, no concession is given because philosophy is Hindutva and cannot as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu you are a woman.” be changed even for political convenience. In 2009 Youth Subscribe to Indo-American News Today Congress activists burnt the We cover your world! effigy of Uma Bharti, who The Indo allegedly made controversial Queen is Name: ____________________________________ Dead American statements against Congress News scion Rahul Gandh on July Phone: ____________________________________ 2009 saying “Rahul is presentating the addicted genAddress:___________________________________ eration.” __________________________________________ This former Madhya Pradesh chief minister is back Number of Years: 1 2 5 10 Lifetime in the BJP after almost six (circle one) $30 $58 $130 $277 $399 long years in the wilderness in June 2011 after being exCredit Card: Master Card / Visa (Circle One) pelled for defying the party leadership. _________________________________________ Uma Bharti on her AyodYour Signature: hya trip on June 2011 made it Exp Date: ___/___ 3 digit code:______ ___________________________ clear that Hindutva was going Do cut and mail to: 7457 Harwin Dr, Ste 262, Houston, TX 77036 (OR) Scan and E-mail to: to be the cornerstone of her Indoamericannews@yahoo.com • Call us at 713-789-6397 • Call us to sign up for E-mail Blast campaign in Uttar Pradesh in Indo-American News is community oriented. We thank you for your subscription & support. the run-up to the Assembly

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Friday, July 31

2009 | Vol. 28,

No. 31

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Maharani Gayatr i Devi passes away at the age of 90

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slumdog million aire has th helpe movie ed o in ndiar hurt ’s im age ?

Read all about it inside.

BollywoodShow EXPLOSION 200 s4U Brings 9 to Houston HOUSTON: Sonu Nigam, Sunidhi Chauhan and Hard to make a stunning Kaur are set the Explosions eventappearance in Bollywood Shows organized by 4

by Moid Khan. The U conducted event is set to be held at the Reliant Arena on August 7, 2009.

ers to Houston thus

making Houstonians dreams organizing “Explosion come true, by 2009” Concert.

“Explosion 2009 will Houston residents be giving a night non-stop session of long rockrock ing Bollywood melodies, promising one of the most memorable musical treats like never witnessed before.

For tickets log on to www.bollywood odshows4u.com or call 281-2354711.

Moid Khan informed that Houston residents have been waiting for a long time to see the live performance of Sonu Nigam. Bolly Bollywoodshows4u is bringing the performperform

Houston. The Foundation could not have chosen to raise awarenessa better topic among IndoB P Americans in Houston K about its HOUSTON: If there’s one recent Indian studies programs. Prior movie that has to polarized opinions the discussion of the film, Parul about India, it Fernandes is lionaire. The movieSlumdog Mil- explained and Krishna Vavilala has all the elthat the Foundation ements of entertainme is currently conducting nt designed to glue you to Hindi Level I and Level your II courses as awe, amusement seat – shock, well as , love and inspiration. disgust, true Jainism classes on Hinduism, and the Anthropolo have seen movie Some people India. gy of The each time moved several times, received Foundation has also to tears and joy. support from There are a few Indian others, however, government’s Ministry of Overwho could not get past the slum seas Indians to fund a Chair for kid’s jump into Indian studies at the UH. blinding of a child. cesspool or the An 11-minute clip of Slumdog More than 120 people with prob- Millionaire, edited by Anil Kuably 200 opinions about the movie mar, was screened to stimulate assembled at a the discussion. The town clip included held at India House hall meeting scenes depicting negative last Sunday afternoon. aspects of India such as religious The town hall mony, child prostitution disharmeeting was oror , and ganized by the Foundation for lice brutality. These scenes poIndia Studies at were the University of followed by uplifting scenes in 4

Ambassador Ambassador MeeraMeera Shankar Shankar visits Houston Visits Page 11

Houston Page 11

Central Texas Temple Grows

Page 6

NRI nvestors Lose Money Chilled IACCGH to Maytas Waterm Helps elonto Propert in Soupies Hire India Page Page 5 26

NRI Investors Lose Money to Maytas Properties in India Page 21 Indo-American

News • Friday,

July 31, 2009

Iamhoroscope

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Indo American News • Friday, July 08, 2011

WEEKLY HOROSCOPE

www.GaneshaSpeaks.com

ARIES Mar 21 - Apr 20: Love, romance and intimate bonding will come your way. This gives you boundless peace of mind that money can’t buy.

These relationships are the very essence of your being, and their implicit support help you get strong in your vocation. Your will become an extremely caring and tolerant of the frailties of human nature. You will secure the cooperation of your colleagues and their appreciation. Family members and children will be a source of happiness.

TAURUS Apr 21 - May 21 This week you will broaden your horizons to encompass friends, colleagues and your social connections. At your office, you will grow in esteem among your colleagues. At home, your near and dear ones will be delighted to be in your company and will be overwhelmed with your amazing skills, knowledge and wisdom. People all around you will approach you for guidance as they realize your genuine desire to help them.

On your part, you relish the leadership that has been thrust upon you.

GEMINI May 22 - Jun 21: There will be a lot of shuffling between finances and relationships this week. Sometimes it will be finances that dominate, and sometimes relationships!

Do not become lax in matters relating to your work and office, regardless of how passionately or romantically you may be involved in your personal affairs. Financial matters, whether cash or credit transactions, will keep you preoccupied, but you will have to be secretive to maximise their benefits. You will be in your elements while dealing with financial and romantic affairs, and will reap their fruits.

CANCER Jun 22 - Jul 23: Your hands are full this week! You work at a hectic pace, multi-tasking domestic and professional work as well as romantic affairs. You seriously examine how to strike a balance between achievement and happiness. You still manage to find the time to go shopping, as your craving for goodies refuses to abate! Keep a tab on your finances, or you may end up overshooting your budget! Your work will be satisfactory and will yield the desired fruits. Relationships will strengthen, and it will make you happy.

LEO July 24 - Aug 23:You will encounter many complicated situations in this phase, but you will be amazed by your own ability to resolve them all with a great deal of maturity. You will keep yourself happy. Consequently you will re-orient your mindset, evaluate each situation on its merits and chart out your course of action accordingly. Your business acumen is sharp, and you have proved your ability to deliver results on time. You may even end up job-hopping in a bid to climb up the ladder of success faster. Romance is on the cards.

VIRGO Aug 24 - Sep 23: You are trying to do too many things at once, and since your workload too is increasing, life becomes very hectic. Work, both personal and professional, besides partying and networking will take up all your time, and even your peace of mind will be shattered. Take some rest, or else you could collapse from fatigue, and even fall sick.

You will turn to meditation and religious rituals to relieve your stress. There is some love on the cards, and it gives you much-needed respite from the load of work. You love spending your time and money on your beloved.

LIBRA Sep 24 - Oct 23: Your manmanagement skills have improved since you started getting more involved in your home

and family matters. You have reached a stage in life where there is hardly any scope for bitterness, malice or undue expectations in any of your interactions with people. You continue to value relationships, both on the personal and professional fronts. You savour the joys of love and relationships and are generally gratified with what you have gained from life. The gains you make henceforth, with your increased maturity, will be more enduring. You take time to relax.

SCORPIO Oct 24 - Nov 22: A spurt of activities on the career front will keep you preoccupied. You are stuck! All the deals and strategies that you initiated months ago are now up and running, and you need to be in the forefront to steer events in the desired direction.

Money will flow in without hindrance, and there will be more agreements, documents to be signed, and deeds to be worked out. Your actions now will lay the ground for the future. You will need to be sharp and absolutely clear in your mind about the course you want events to take.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 23 - Dec 22: You put in genuine efforts to get back your stability. Luck favors you and you have not missed out on opportunities.

You get back to the grind, and there are new deals at hand or in the works, but you are unsure of your ability to cope with the pressures. You like a relaxed life and spend a lot on high-end items!

From one point of view, you are losing ground, but from another, this could be your launching pad for bigger things when the appropriate time arrives. You simply don’t feel motivated enough by the challenges that you encounter.

CAPRICORN Dec 23 - Jan 20: Financial matters and romance are the two dominant themes this week. Money matters could drive you mad!

Loans, joint accounts, insur insurance and other funds of all sorts in addition to a spurt in expenditures.. You will successfully manage all of them. You will also find the time to get away from the monotonous routine of your life to recharge yourself, like maybe a weekend trip to some nearby resort. You will devote quality time to your loved ones, which will make you happy too.

AQUARIUS Jan 21 - Feb 19: You go on a spending spree as you want to decorate your home and office with beautiful things. Your aesthetic senses are coming to the fore, and you really want to make your surroundings more harmonious with your tastes. You are faced with a plethora of possibilities to choose from, which, is not such a bad problem to have! Exercise caution, though, and refrain from extravagance. This is an eventful phase, and there is a lot happening in your home and office, but you will have to make suitable adjustments.

PISCES Feb 20 - Mar 20: Get back to work, Financial incentives keep you motivated. Be more focused on your work, financial outflow is foreseen. You will splurge in a bout of shopping to acquire some goodies for yourself, family and office.

Don’t indulge in drinking and smoking, for you may end up with serious health problems. You could go for a comprehensive health check-up to nip any possible problems in the bud. Better to be safe than sorry! www.indoamerican-news.com

Wardrobe By: Inara Designer Saris Photo By: Frame Photography Make Up By: Cerlin Miranda Hair By: Monica Vasquez Model: Annicia Davis

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Indo American News • Friday, July 08, 2011

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India Culture Center, Houston with Consulate General of India & Major Indo-American Organizations

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