Friday, September 30 2011 | Vol. 30, No. 39
Indo American erican News
Beginning this week, Indo American News brings two series of articles on Mahatma Gandhi and Seniors’ Health
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Gunmen Target Sugar Land Family in Home Invasion
SUGAR LAND (KTRK): A Fort Bend County couple was terrorized in their own home, but investigators don’t think the break-in was a random crime. It happened Monday night in the 4300 block of Maranatha Drive, just southeast of Sugar Land. In the words of authorities, ‘it wasn’t amateur night.’ Those responsible for this home invasion knew what they were doing. Beyond iron gates in Maranatha Farms, inside a 10,000 square foot home, Mohamed Ali says two men terrorized his son and daughter-in-law, holding a gun to their heads. Ali was upstairs, wearing headphones and watching TV. It appears the suspects didn’t know he was there. “But I didn’t hear,” he said. “when you are upstairs you can not hear anything.”
Investigators say two masked men scaled the fence and threw a propane cylinder through a back bedroom window, ordering the couple inside the home to the ground at gunpoint. Detectives tell us the suspects were inside less than five minutes, ransacking the home, stealing at least $10,000 in cash and jewelry. No one was hurt. But the feeling of security in this affluent, otherwise tranquil neighborhood was damaged immeasurably. Investigators believe a third person may have been waiting nearby in a getaway vehicle. Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers has posted a reward of up to $5,000 for any information leading to the arrest and filing of charges on the suspects responsible for this crime.
Villain
Gulshan Grover with Fox News’ Melissa Wilson
Victory for
HOUSTON: Bollywood’s popular villain Gulshan Grover won kudos for his comedic role in the independently made comedy/drama movie Desperate Endeavors at the 3rd Indian Film Festival Houston Award Night banquet. The actor, who was the star at the event, received the Special Recognition for Outstanding Performance Award for his character Dada Bhagwan, a spiritual advisor who offers farcical succor to an Indian immigrant in New York City in the 1973’s; the film along with another Grover starrer I Am Kalam, were two of nine movies that were screened over three days at the festival this year. STORY ON PAGE 3&6
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3rd Indian Film Festival Honors Bollywood’s Bad Boy Gulshan Grover By Kalyani Giri HOUSTON: Bollywood’s popular villain Gulshan Grover won kudos for his comedic role in the independently made comedy/drama movie Desperate Endeavors at the 3rd Indian Film Festival Houston (IFFH) Award Night banquet held at the Hotel Sorella on September 24, 2011. The actor, who was the star at the event that drew about 150 gatherees from this city’s diverse local communities, received the Special Recognition for Outstanding Performance Award for his character Dada Bhagwan, a spiritual advisor who offers farcical succor to an Indian immigrant in New York City in the 1973’s; the film along with another Grover starrer I Am Kalam, were two of nine movies that were screened over three days at the festival this year. Also in attendance was Desperate Endeavors’ French-Algerian director Sam Khassa, and Prashant Nair, director of Delhi in a Day that bagged the Best Feature Film Jury Award. The event began with a cocktail reception followed by a plated dinner and the awards ceremony. Masters of Ceremonies for the evening were Melissa Wilson and Len Cannon, news anchors with television channels Fox 26 and KHOU 11 respectively. In her welcome address, IFFH founder/director Sutapa Ghosh said that the festival aimed at promoting the diverse perspectives of the Indian diaspora
Gulshan Grover on the sets of I Am Kalam (above) and Desperate Endeavors (below) for which he received a Special Recognition Award for Outstanding Performance for his character of Dada Bhagwan
by showcasing quality films. “We are devoted to creating a greater appreciation of India’s multi-faceted culture and long history of filmmaking,” said Ghosh. “This festival provides programming and activities that no other festival in Houston offers, and has the unique potential of reaching a crossover audience,” Ghosh said. She added that the festival attracted a record number of about 3,000 attendees this year. The charismatic Grover, dapper in a burnt orange shirt, patterned silk tie and grey suit, lauded Ghosh for her effort in making the festival possible in this city. “Previously, I never did connect Houston with art,” confided the actor wryly. “I was thrilled to feel the energy and enthusiasm. This festival is truly the beginning for Houston becoming a destination for film lovers and I hope it grows every year,” added Grover. He spoke a little about his reluctance in accepting a role in Desperate Endeavors. “I did not want to take the role because it scared me, it was a challenge transitioning from a bad guy to a spiritual one,” Grover said. “But I am so glad I did, and I am very grateful to the director for being so confident in selecting me,” he added. Grover’s role as a teastall owner in I Am Kalam has also drawn critical acclaim and broadened his acting repertoire in other genres.
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He accepted his award from the Consul General of Austria, Gerald Seidl, and the Director of the Film Commission of Houston, Rick Ferguson. Other award winners were director Rupam Sarmah’s In Search of God that garnered the Best Documentary Film Jury Award, Fatakara directed by local filmmaker Soham Mehta that took the Best Short Film Jury Award. The Special Recognition for Outstanding Contribution was awarded to Ellen Goldberg for her work in bringing together diverse cultures. Goldberg, who visited India for the first time when she was 41 years old, told of her lifelong fascination with that country and a sense of “kinship” with Indian people. “I was impressed by their values and attitudes, and when I returned to Houston, I became involved with the community. Some wonder how a Jewish woman could be so involved in activities with Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, and other communities. The secret is in treating everyone with dignity,” said Goldberg. During dinner, local super group Rhythm India treated guests to vibrant dances choreographed by the artistic director and founder of the dance company, Arzan Gonda. For additional information about the Indian Film Festival of Houston, visit www.iffhinc.org See Collage on page 6
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Indo American News • Friday, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com
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COMMUNITY
September 30, 2011
5
new Tools for Businesses to Access scattered Bits of Knowledge
By JaWaHar MalHOTra HOUSTON: As if the Baby Boomers hadn’t already created quite a revolution in mores, morals and lifestyles over the last six decades as they percolated through the economy, they will make just a big an impact as they retire from the workforce. They will take a large piece of their accumulated knowledge with them. And this will have huge consequences in all areas of commerce. Especially so in the oil and gas exploration business which is the engine that allows modern society to function. With supply and demand from across the globe being so tightly knit, this sector of the economy is very sensitive to changes. C.P. Gurnani and his team of team at Mahindra Satyam, of which he is the CEO, have seen this looming gap in the knowledge sphere coming and have realized what impact it could have on the oil and gas business if it went unresolved. “Retiring of the workforce is a serious issue,” said Gurnani in an interview on Tuesday, September 20 at the Westin Oaks Hotel in the Galleria. “And especially in the oil and gas sector where it takes lots of experience to understand, for example, geoseismic data.” As a chemical engineer who is now the head of the IT portion of the Mahindra Group conglomerate (after buying the remnants of the now defunct Satyam Systems in June 2009) Gurnani is focusing on the Houston market which is heavily laden with oil and gas firms and where Mahindra has had a presence through the acquisition of International Harvester’s US tractor operations in 1994. Now Mahindra has 1,200 people in Texas with offices in Dallas, San Antonio and Austin besides Houston. “We plan to expand the Houston office by pursuing the oil and gas market,” explained Gurnani. “That sector is going through exciting times – reserves are up, the impact of environmental and regulatory changes require more responsiveness, a retiring workforce – and there is a vastly better knowledge base and newer technologies.” He believes that MS’s global delivery capability with offices in 32 countries can reduce a client firm’s expenses by eliminating data centers, management and enhancement of assets and efficient network management. The areas that MS can provide services are in consulting of processes for back offices; convert data flow into automation; infrastructure; engineering design of drillbits and business operations like compliance and repetitive tasks. “We have been able to help Schlumberger and Halliburton for example,” said Salil Saha, the Houston-based Business Head for Oil and Gas for MS, “to make equipment more scaleable for easier transportation.” The biggest demand is from upstream drilling, engineering design and seismic data interpretation. Another issue that Gurnani and Saha see is that the number of IT graduates in the US is coming down precisely at a time that the rate of IT technology and communication is going up. “And who is managing this change?” asked Gurnani. “Where is the thought leadership? In today’s global based economy, we don’t have to shift people, we Indo American News (ISSN 887-5936) is published weekly every Friday (for a subscription of $30 per year) by IndoAmerican News Inc., 7457 Harwin Dr., Suite 262, Houston, TX 77036, tel: 713-789-6397, fax:713-789-6399, email: indoamericannews@yahoo.com. Periodical postage paid at Houston, Texas. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Indo American News, 7457 Harwin Dr., Suite 262, Houston, TX 77036
go where the talent is available and at a competitive rate.” He believes that MS’ global presence offers this to the oil and gas industry. Getting US work visas has also become a very laborious and expensive process so communication through Cisco’s Telepresence, a video conferencing system, fills in the interpersonal gap for people working in far-off places. Both men are convinced that all this points to more pressure on young engineers and technicians to make major decisions that can affect the company’s bottom line and in the oil and gas business, this can easily run into millions of dollars. They believe it is essential to have information readily available from all sources – including those employees who have retired – “so that the young person can make handle the ‘what if?’ scenario rather than turn him overnight into a pilot of the plane,” added Gurnani. “We have developed a platform that can help manage the knowledge base and organize thoughts and ideas,” continued Gurnani, “so that we can accelerate the learning process from 5 to 3 years.” And it is this platform that the two-hour seminar and lunch that followed later that afternoon explained to an invited list of around 50 people. The seminar entitled “Futurescapes”was planned and coordinated by Pradeep Anand, the President and founder of Seeta Resources, a management advisory firm. Introductions were made by Arvind Malhotra, Head of Strategic Accounts for MS who coined a new phrase, Generation C, for the younger generation who is constantly connected, demands quick answers to specific issues and has a short attention span. Gurnani made welcome remarks that broadly outlined the points he had made during the interview. Dealing with the major issue of retiring oil and gas personnel – termed The Big Crew Change – was Steve Jacobs, COO of Decision Strategies who showed how the demand for fuel has grown worldwide and why it is critical to maintain the momentum to find new reserves. He was followed up by M. S. Manikantan, Principal Consultant for MS who explained with the help of short video clips how different people from any location could be seamlessly and constantly connected by the new software that MS has launched and is promoting, that combines business social networking with email and relational databases across multiple mobile devices. Scott Parent, VP of Technology with Baker Hughes closed out the seminar with how the industry is currently rising to formidable challenges. A question and answer session closed out the seminar. In defining the problem and presenting a new solution platform, MS hopes to continue on its growth trajectory in the US and global markets. “How does a civil society unite in a couple of days?” asked Gurnani with apparent reference to the upheavals wreaked by the Arab Spring. “This is the power of connectivity. How do we use social networks in our businesses? True, we need speed of execution, but with all this wealth of information, there is a poverty of attention.”
From left: M. S. Manikantan, Principal Consultant for Mahindra Satyam; Steve Jacobs, COO of Decision Strategies; Scott Parent, VP of Technology with Baker Hughes and C.P. Gurnani, CEO Mahindra Satyam. Photos: Bijay Dixit
Middle: The team from Mahindra Satyam with CEO C.P. Gurani (seated third from right) and management consultant Pradeep Anand (seated second from left) and then (bottom) later in the afternoon at the inauguration of their new offices on Gessner Road near Westheimer.
Later that afternoon, Gurnani and the rest of his staff were on hand to inaugurate their
new offices on 820 Gessner Road, Ste 265, Houston, TX 77024.
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COMMUNITY
September 30, 2011
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Photography: Krishna Giri
4 5 1. Sam Khassa (Director, Desperate Endeavors) Sutapa Ghosh (IFFH Founder/Director) and Prashant Nair 2. Kirit Mehta, Ellen Goldberg, Gulshan Grover, Sutapa Ghosh, Prashant Nair and Rupam Sarmah 3. Gulshan Grover (Special Recognition for Outstanding Performance Award, Desperate Endeavors), Rick Ferguson (Chairman, Houston Film Commission) and Sam Khassa 4. Deanea LeFore presents a proclamation on behalf of Houston Mayor Annise Parker to Sutapa Ghosh 5. Master of Ceremonies, Melissa Wilson (News Anchor, Fox News) and Atul Badwal 6. Sunil Sharma presents a proclamation on behalf of Judge Ed Emmett to Sutapa Ghosh 7. Prashant Nair (Director/Producer, Delhi in a Day) receives the Best Feature Film Jury Award from Sutapa Ghosh 8. Rupam Sarmah (Director, In Search of God) receives the Best Documentary Film Jury Award from Gerald Seidl,
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Consul General of Austria
9. Ellen Goldberg receives the Special Recognition for Outstanding Contribution Award for her work in bringing together diverse cultures from Drew Wilson, Thomson and
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Reuters 10. Kirit Mehta accepts award (on behalf of Soham Mehta for the movie Fatakra, Best Short Film Jury Award) from Jugal Malani
Indo AmerIcAn news • FrIdAy, sePTemBer 30 , 2011 • onlIne edITIon: www.IndoAmerIcAn-news.com
COMMUNITY
Houston’s Vedanta society consecrates new Temple
HOUSTON: After persevering over the past 30 years since the initial foundation of the organization, the Vedanta Society of Houston performed the consecration and dedication ceremony of their new temple site on Saturday, September 24 with over 200 people in attendance. The temple is still under construction on a 1.5 acre lot on Lindita Lane just adjacent the Southwest Gurudwara, which allowed the overflow crowd to park in their lot. Construction started in December 2007 through donated funds of $1 million, but another $60,000 is still needed for the remainder of the work. It was the culmination of hard work on the part of many dedicated devotees like Sapna Choudhury and Chaya Timiraju. Equally important were the people who could not attend, but were pioneers of the Society: Dr. K. L. Sindwani (IAN’s founder and publisher) and his wife
September 30, 2011
cluded with an elaborate arati performed by Swami Sarvadevananda (of the Hollywood Vedanta Center), Swami Kripamayananda (of the Toronto Vedanta Center) and Swami Brahmarupananda (of the Washington D.C. Vedanta Center), followed by pushpanjali and lunch prasad. The evening celebrations began with Vedic chanting by Swamis Sarvadevananda and Kripamayananda followed by brief talks by Swami Swahananda (of the Hollywood Vedanta Center), Swami Tathagatananda (of the New York Vedanta Center), Swami Bhaskarananda (of the Seattle Vedanta Center), and Swami Pravrajika Brahmaprana, (of the Dallas Vedanta Center). Harris County Judge Ed Emmett spoke of his personal connection with Vedanta and read a proclamation for the day as VSGH Day. Later, Mayor Annise Parker briefly ad-
Top: The third annual Durga Puja was celebrated on Sunday in a makeshift mandap outside the main temple. Bottom: The dedication ceremony included ritualistic worship of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda by the monks of the Ramakrishna order.
Mohini who have moved to Wichita Falls and can no longer travel and the youthful Priya Shastri who persevered even as she fought off and later succumbed to cancer and then in her will bequeathed a very large amount to the organization. But these people and others like them were not forgotten as the ceremonies were conducted. While the Ramakrishna Mission (as the Vedanta movement is also known by) frowns upon individualistic recognition, the names and faces of all those who have helped to make the new temple a reality were very much on the mouths and in the minds of those who came and indeed mentioned in the program brochure that was published. The dedication ceremony included ritualistic worship of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda by the monks of the Ramakrishna order. Following the teaching of Sri Ramakrishna regarding harmony of religions, pictures of Jesus and Buddha were installed and also worshipped. The morning festivities con-
dressed the gathering and proclaimed the day as Sri Ramakrishna Day. The evening program concluded with cultural program featuring tabla ensemble by Pandit Shantilal Shah and his students of the Swaralayam Arts Forum, Bharatnatyam and Kuchipudi dance performances by Rathna Kumar’s students from the Anjali Center for Performing Arts and Hindustani classical vocal renditions by Pandit Suman Ghosh and his students. On the next day, the third annual Durga Puja was celebrated in a makeshift mandap outside the main temple. Ritualistic worship in the tradition of Ramakrishna order was conducted by the monks. Arati was performed, followed by pushpanjali and lunch prasad. People turned out in large numbers for the two day festivities despite the heat. Excellent singing by the by VSGH choir accompanying the worship on both days was much appreciated by the audience. The new temple is located at 14809 Lindita Drive, Houston, TX 77082. Visit www.houstonvedanta.org or call 281-584-0488.
Indo AmerIcAn news • FrIdAy, sePTemBer 30, 2011 • onlIne edITIon: www.IndoAmerIcAn-news.com
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September 30, 2011
Tribute to mehdi Hassan King of Ghazal by Talat Aziz
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By nanD KaPOOr ian CHiCaGO COrrESPOnDEnT CHICAGO: Amrish Mahajan, an Indian community activist, hosted a musical concert in Chicago this past weekend by Talat Aziz paying tribute to a king among ghazal singers Mehdi Hasan. Promoted nationally by Saregama PLC the event on Saturday, September 17, at the Gateway Theater attracted hundreds of ghazal lovers not only from Chicago but also from neighboring States of Indiana and Wisconsin too. Mehdi Hasan’s most popular ghazals like Rafta Rafta & Zindagi Mein along with Talat’s super hit ghazals from Umrao Jaan, Bazar, Daddy enthralled over 700+ attendees for over three hours. Palwinder Hansra welcomed Talat Aziz and the entire team. Mehdi Hassan is known as the ‘King of Ghazal’ and is a famous playback singer for Bollywood, but ruled the Pakistan film industry along with another great Ahmed Rushdi. Hasan’s success would be credited to the fact that he chose his ghazals with great thought and care. His deep knowledge of music helped him to rise to stardom. Talat Aziz, a ghazal singer for over 31 years as a professional, has sung all over
HOUSTON: Bathukamma Sambaralu 2011 (festival of flowers and colors) is being organized at Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple on October 1 at 5:30 pm in association with several local and national organizations to promote Telugu culture and heritage to Houstonians. It is the most “flowerful” festival where men, women and children dress-up in festive attire, sing and dance around Bathukamma (stack of various flowers arranged on the plate) in celebration of life and happines. “Bathuka” in Telugu means life and “amma” means mother. This is a free event for all of you to come with your family and friends and enjoy the festivities and delicious food. There are top prizes for winners and token gifts for all Bathukamma participants. Join the 3-hour non-stop fun with singing and dancing that ends with delicious homemade food. For more information,visit www.bathukammasambaralu.org. The sponsors of this special occasion are - Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple, Shirdi Sai Jalaram Mandir, ATA, NATA, Andhra Mirchi Radio and Radio Hungama . We also appreciate the support of Indo-American newspapers in Houston.
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the globe.He took his initial training in music from Kirana Gharana. He was trained primarily by Ustad Samad Khan and later by Ustad Fayaz Ahmed who were famous classicall singers. After the initial training, Talat decided to learn music from music maestro Mehdi Hassan. On many occasions, like on a concert tour of the US and Canada in 1986 he shared the same stage with him on concerts in India and abroad He completed his 25 Years Silver Anniversary with the launch of a special audio and video album in 2004 at the NCPA Mumbai where the veritable who’s who of the music industry were present.
Bathukamma sambaralu at sri Ashtalakshmi Temple on october 1
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September 30, 2011
9
Guided Travel to Far off Places in those Golden years
Amit Kapur, President of Chicago-based Club Rama Holidays, metwith interested travellers to explain his company’s tour packages features.
By JaWaHar MalHOTra HOUSTON: The restaurant was packed and the invited retirees and those-on-theverge were all ears. They wanted to catch the details of the travel packages that were being outlined and already their minds were racing away to those far-off places that they now had the luxury of time and money to wander to. Amit Kapur, 32 was explaining the different travel packages that his 31-year old family owned business had to offer. “This is the third in a series of luncheons that we are holding all over the US to reach our clients,” he said, “so that we can explain the tours that we offer.” The first two luncheons were held in Gainesville, Maryland and Kansa City, Missouri and others are planned for Dallas, Los Angeles and cities in the Midwest. As he spoke, he looked around at the about 90 people, mostly Indian, who had been invited by Ajit Patel, a Houstonian who has been a satisfied client, to hear him at Gourmet India restaurant this past Saturday, September 24 and then have a buffet style lunch. Kapur, who is President of Chicagobased Rama Tour and Club Rama Holidays, explained how the tour packages offered by CRH had grown. “We started with just one client to China in October 2004 to 5,400 now who will tour with us to 65 countries this year.” And it has grown mostly through word-of-
mouth from the hundreds of satisfied clients who CRH has served, and with a little bit of newspaper and TV ads. Their major client base is the 55 to 85 set traveling from North America and CRH has tailored the tours to fit their lifestyles (like offering Indian food) and don’t offer outbound travel from India. Kapur also outlined a new tour offering called “Anokha Jaal”, geared to the younger 20 to 39 set who are interested in traveling to India but want to mix social and business networking in shorter length tours. “These are people who want to start their mornings late, have some sightseeing and then meet other professionals or work with some charitable causes,” he explained. And to show their commitment to philanthropy, for each of the nearly 7,000 people that Rama Tours takes to India each year, it has pledged to give $10 in India to a local hospital and the Grow-A-Tree campaign. For the Anoka Jaal tours,
Amit Kapur with guets at the luncheon held on Saturday, September 24 at Gourmet India restaurant. Photos: Jawahar Malhotra
CRH will donate a similar amount to environmental and animal rights causes in India. Kapur reassured the attendees that CRH tours were guaranteed departures and four were planned for 2012: to Costa Rica, Spain and Portugal, India and Egypt. Additionally, these could be booked on their website www.ramaworldtours.com and even tailored
down to mini tours of as small as 1 day. As he finished, the inquisitive guests milled around Kapur all agog with questions about travel plans they had, especially a soon-to-leave tour to China that several of those in attendance had signed up for. The delighted young, athletic Kapur smiled widely and was ready to respond to the flurry of questions.
Indo AmerIcAn news • FrIdAy, sePTemBer 30, 2011 • onlIne edITIon: www.IndoAmerIcAn-news.com
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dinesh shah to serve 10 years Behind Bars HOUSTON (KTRK): He targeted wealthy families in River Oaks. But the con man was busted, and on Monday, sent to prison. Dinesh Shah, 44, is now behind bars, convicted of stealing millions of dollars from families in River Oaks. Now, some of his victims say he went to great lengths to lie, cheat and steal. Four years ago, Shah assaulted a very wealthy but very young girl. He pleaded guilty to that crime years ago. But that was just the beginning. What unraveled from there was a frightening story of financial and physical control of victims that prosecutors say amounted to brainwashing. Now it’s clear probation didn’t slow Shah down at all. Shah sure was quiet when we caught up with him. “Can you explain why so there are many people around town who think you stole money or cheated or hurt them?” we asked Shah. He wouldn’t say a thing, but he’d said enough over the last few years to allegedly rope in several high-dollar victims. “He actually sort of consumes his victims,” Harris County Assistant District Attorney Kelli Johnson said. According to court testimony, victims and their families, he always started by reeling off his impressive, but fake personal resume. “He introduced himself as an attorney,” alleged victim Jennifer Estopinal said. “Said he was in the CIA,” another alleged victim, Steve Loy, said. As he worked those tales he told people, he had a mansion in River Oaks. In reality, medical records show he was living at the Greenway Inn & Suites off the Southwest Freeway, where rent is less than $60 a night -- hardly the life of a wealthy man. “His whole life is a façade,” Johnson said. “It’s very pathetic, and unfortunately, he finds people who fall for it along the way.” “He befriended my father on the premise of discussing my dad’s vintage cars,” Estopinal said.
Dinesh Shah
She says Shah then found out her father was an FBI agent who worked on the Kennedy assassination, and Shah used that nugget to keep building a friendship, eventually convincing her father and his wife to sign over their estates to Shah, losing thousands in the process and allegedly threatening Estopinal when she tried to stop it. “He made a threat against my life,” she said.
And she knows they’re not the only victims. “I think it’s hundreds,” Estopinal said. “He knows how to brainwash people; he knows how to take people hostage,” Loy said. Loy says he gave $9,300 to Shah to invest after Shah allegedly told him he was a broker. Shah isn’t one. When he tried to untangle himself from Shah’s web, Loy claims, “He said he knew how to put slow-acting poison in my air conditioner.” Now, the threats are over. Shah was sent to prison for 10 years on Monday morning, but few expect his ways will change. “It’s not going to stop him, but it’s going to slow him down for a little while,” Johnson said. Shah will be back in court for more charges next month. His story is now the focus of a book called ‘Monster in River Oaks,’ written by one of Shah’s own attorneys. His alleged victims certainly agree that the title fits.
IPAws Houston Joins other Animal organizations in Paws on Patio Initiative HOUSTON: IPAWS Houston was launched recently by a group of Indo American animal lovers residing in the Greater Houston area. Within a very short period of time, IPAWS has facilitated animal adoptions in the community; launched newsletter Be PAWSitive; and has partnered with the Houston Humane Society in participating at several local events. IPAWS is currently moving forward on a number of initiatives including monthly animal lover meetings - aptly entitled Paw Wows - featuring guest speakers and monthly vet clinics. Recently, the City of Houston began to allowing pets on the patios of restaurants based on receipt of specific permission. In that connection, IPAWS is contacting Houston’s Indian restaurants requesting them to apply for and allow paws on their patios. Where required, IPAWS is making it’s services available for acquiring the requisite permission and invites owners to contact them for assistance. IPAWS is also reaching out to the neighboring cities and encouraging them to follow Houston in being more pet friendly. A competition for community youth to design a new logo for the organization is in progress. Great prizes will be awarded. Designs are to be submitted (no later than October 31, 2011) to Krishna Giri at krishnagiri@aol.com or Latafath Hussain at latafath2000@yahoo.com Simultaneously, IPAWS will continue with it’s aggressive spay/neuter campaign and owner education program in the hope that every pet adopted will find a permanent, loving home. For more information on IPAWS contact ipawshouston@gmail.com Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ipawshouston
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Indo AmerIcAn news • FrIdAy, sePTemBer 30 , 2011 • onlIne edITIon: www.IndoAmerIcAn-news.com
September 30, 2011
Three Indian-origin scientists in white House Honors list of 12
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from expected random behavior, which has revolutionized this field of study during the second half of the twentieth century and become a cornerstone of both pure and applied probability. The mathematical insights he developed have been applied in diverse fields including quantum field theory, population dynamics, finance, econometrics, and traffic engineering, the White House said in its citation. Rakesh Agarwal, an alumnus of IIT-Kanpur, was awarded the National Medal of Technology and Innovation for “an extraordinary record of innovations in improving energy efficiency and reducing the cost of gas liquefaction and separation. These innovations have had significant positive impacts on electronic device manufacturing, liquefied gas production, and the supply of industrial gases for diverse industries,” the citation said. B Jayant Baliga, an alumnus of IIT-Chennai, won in the same category for development and commercialization of the Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor and other power semiconductor devices that are extensively used in transportation, lighting, medicine, defense, and renewable energy generation systems.
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cipients will receive their awards at a White House ceremony later this year. Scientists and researchers of Indian-origin have occasionally featured before in the White House honors list, but this is the first time that three have been recognized in a single year in a list typically dominated by U.S-born and US-educated geeks. Among the rare awardees of Indian-origin are Calyampudi R Rao (Vardhan’s mentor who was recognized in 2001 for mathematical and computer sciences) and Arun Netravali (2001 for technology). Steve Jobs, Gordon Moore, David Packard and Dean Kamen are among legends who have won the technology medal, while several science medal recipients have gone on to win the Nobel Prize. While there is criticism from some quarters that India often tends to “adopt” NRIs and PIOs who have long given up on their homeland, in this instance all three winners have strong roots and association with India. Srinivasa SR Varadhan, an alumnus of Presidency College, Chennai and the Indian Statistical Institute, who is also a Padma Bhushan recipient, won the award for his work in probability theory, especially his work on large deviations
Fondren
By CHiDananD raJGHaTTa WASHINGTON (TOI): Three distinguished scientists of Indianorigin -- two inventors and a researcher -- figure in a celebrated White House honors list this year, broadly underscoring India’s continued contribution to American advances. Two of them are IITians, alumni of the academically elite Indian Institute of Technology. New York University’s Srinivasa SR Vardhan, Purdue University’s Rakesh Agarwal and North Carolina State Univeristy’s B Jayant Baliga are among the select dozen named by President Obama to receive the National Medal of Science, and for Technology and Innovation, the highest honor bestowed by the US government on scientists, engineers and inventors. “Each of these extraordinary scientists, engineers, and inventors is guided by a passion for innovation, a fearlessness even as they explore the very frontiers of human knowledge, and a desire to make the world a better place,” Obama said in a statement on Tuesday following the release of the honors list. “Their ingenuity inspires us all to reach higher and try harder, no matter how difficult the challenges we face.” The re-
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Indo AmerIcAn news • FrIdAy, sePTemBer 30, 2011 • onlIne edITIon: www.IndoAmerIcAn-news.com
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12 September 30, 2011
BAPs charities Brings 700 walkersTogether at walkathon
SUGAR LAND: Earlier than most of us rolled out of our beds this past Sunday, September 25, Kushbhoo Bansal woke up at 6am to get ready for the annual BAPS Charities Walkathon at the Sugar Land City Hall in Sugar Land, Texas. By 9am on Sunday morning, over 700 walkers had joined in the BAPS Charities Walkathon. In keeping with its theme, “Building a Better Community, One Step at a Time,” the proceeds from this year’s walk will benefit American Diabetes Association and Stafford MSD Education Foundation. Kushbhoo and many other volunteers have been active in raising awareness and sponsorships for this year’s walk. Kushbhoo said, “Both beneficiaries are important to me. As we know there are close to 26 million diabetics in the US and my father is one of them. The ADA’s research to prevent, cure, and manage diabetes will help these individuals.” She also added, “Education for youths like me plays a role for a better future.” Stafford MSD Education Foundation aims at the development of their students and provides a high quality education through scholarships and grants. “Walking for such a noble cause is a great honor,” said Nilkanth Patel, President of BAPS Charities. “Organizing events such as this walkathon provides BAPS Charities with a unique opportunity to bring together people of all ages, from the young to the old, to serve the community. It is amazing to see the incredible amount of energy from all the volunteers that have come out to make today a tremendous success.” Walkers from all areas of the community and sponsors such as Piping Technology & Products, SDB Trade International, SK Engineering & Construction, KBR, Emerus, Forge USA and many others showed their support for this year’s walk. This event truly did exemplify a community in unity. Kalpesh Patel from KBR was excited to say, “I am glad to see my fellow co-workers here on a Sunday morning to support a great cause.”
Over 700 walkers participated in the BAPS Charities Walk
Sugar Land Mayor Pro Tem Jacqueline Baly Chaumette motivating the walkers at the BAPSCharities Walk
Sugar Land Mayor Pro Tem Jacqueline Baly Chaumette and Council member Danny Nguyen from Missouri City appreciated the efforts and the volunteers of BAPS Charities. Jacqueline Chaumette said, “I want to applaud you for all of your efforts and you have done so much for all of us and you continue to do so.” By the end of the 5k walkathon, Kushbhoo was glad that it was over but she explains, “This is one event that I want to make sure that not only I participate in, but also hope to get even more involved with over the years.” With over 40 centers participating in similar walks across North America, this is just one of the many initiatives that BAPS Charities undertakes to support local communities. Throughout the year, BAPS Charities hosts medical fairs, education and career development seminars, blood drives and much more. BAPS Charities sincerely serves the community, by improving the quality of life for individuals and families. For more information, please visit www. bapscharities.org About BAPS Charities: BAPS Charities is a 501(c)(3) registered nonprofit international charity organization committed to sincerely serving the world by caring for individuals, families, and communities. It is affiliated with BAPS as an independent
charity and social services arm. The 55,000 BAPS volunteers networked in over 3,300 centers around the world provide over 12 million volunteer-hours of service annually. Among social service charities, BAPS Charities is a wellrespected and trusted name. It has amassed over 50 years of firsthand experience in initiating, managing, and sustaining 160 humanitarian operations throughout the world in such diverse fields as: medical services, environmental services, community services, tribal services, and disaster relief services. For additional information on BAPS Charities and its international and local philanthropic activities, visit www.bapscharities.org or call Viral Desai at 832.498.4725 About the American Diabetes Association: The American Diabetes Association is the only non-profit organization supporting all 23.6 million Americans living with diabetes – including type 1and type 2 diabetes; children and adults. The Association funds research to prevent, cure and manage diabetes; delivers services to hundreds of communities; provides objective and credible information; and gives voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes. Founded in 1940, our mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve
the lives of all people affected by diabetes. About the Stafford MSD Education Foundation: The Stafford MSD Education Foundation was founded in 2004 to create a partnership of educators, businesses, community members, parents, and civic leaders to assist in meeting the everincreasing demands of providing a high quality education. The Foundation is a tax-exempt organiza-
tion established to secure financial support and other resources for SMSD academic programs. Foundation funds support needs within the district that fall outside the scope of the normal operating budget. Students and teachers benefit from grants and scholarships either funded or orchestrated by the Foundation. Stafford MSD Education Foundation is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organizations.
yldP: now a non-Profit
HOUSTON: The Youth Leadership Development Program completed three years of successfully delivering a robust leadership learning program for Indo-American teens from Greater Houston high schools. Since its inception in 2008, YLDP has grown and built a credible program bringing accomplished local leaders and role models to engage and share their experience with our youth. At the helm of starting the fourth year, and realizing its additional growth potential it became apparent that, YLDP needs a structural change to continue effectively its role in providing a focused youth development program to the expanding Indo American Community. A formidable community unifying program, YLDP was harbored under India Culture Center, Houston (ICC) and helped from start-up to manage its funds, and build community relationships with Indo American organizations. With growth potential, and now having become a stable youth program, the joint leadership of ICC and YLDP have agreed it is time for YLDP to become a non-profit (501-C) organization. After collective thinking and working a way forward, YLDP is being launched as an independent organization as “Youth Leadership Development Program of Houston”. YLDP of Houston is thankful to ICC for its support and encouragement to initiate the program’s new independent non-profit setup. As YLDP of Houston forms anew, its leaders are committed to build on the continued partnership with community, specifically with ICC, IACF, IACCGH, IAPAC and other key organizations and individuals. Please join us in supporting the beginning of a new chapter in YLDP’s journey to serve youngsters, inspiring and encouraging them to take on future leadership of our community locally, nationally and globally.
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Indo AmerIcAn news • FrIdAy, sePTemBer 30 , 2011 • onlIne edITIon: www.IndoAmerIcAn-news.com
© 2011 All rights reserved.
September 30, 2011
The extraordinary life and Times of mahatma Gandhi A carefree and happy childhood in Porbandar
Born more than 130 years ago, the life and times of the man who would grow up to be universally known as The Mahatma, still resonates until today. Mohandas Gandhi, a loved and pampered son of very ordinary parents, had an ordinary childhood in Porbandar, on the coast of Kathiawad in the western state of Gujarat. He grew up to inspire legions of people globally by his fearless ideology that uprooted an empire, to bring freedom to the land of his birth. With his message of non-violence, he roused the nation - and the world - and earned the title of Great Soul. For the next several weeks, Indo American News will bring you his life story, and of how he continues to be an inspiration to the world and mostly to millions of oppressed people everywhere. Born on October 2, 1869, to Karamchand Gandhi and his wife Putlibai, Young Mohandas hailed from a family highly regarded for the moral ethics and strength of character. His grandfather, Uttamchand, belonged to a humble family of merchants, but rose in the ranks to become the Dewan of Porbander. His son Karamchand, who had very little education, succeeded him but was a fine administrator. Putlibai, Karamchand Gandhi’s
a child, Moniya seldom liked to stay at home. He would go home for his meals and then run away again to play outside. Moniya was just seven years old when his father left Porbandar to become the Dewan of Rajkot, taking the family along. At Rajkot he was sent to a primary school. He was shy and did not mix easily with the other children. Every morning he went to school in time, and ran back home as soon as school was over. His books A young Gandhi in Porbandar were his sole comwife, was a deeply religious wom- panions and he spent all his free an and strong-willed woman. She time alone reading. He had one friend, however; was widely respected for her wisdom and good sense. People often a boy named Uka. Uka was a sought her advice on various mat- sweeper boy and an untouchable. ters. Mohandas was the youngest One day Moniya was given some of the six children of Karamchand sweets. He ran at once to Uka to and Putlibai Gandhi. He was the share them with him. But Uka told favorite child of the family and Moniya not to go near him as he was called Moniya by his parents was an untouchable. It was the first and their friends. Moniya adored time that Mohandas encountered his mother. He loved his father too, India’s cataclysmic social divide. but he was a little afraid of him. As Stunned by the revelation that in
India one was identified by one’s caste, he took hold of Uka’s hands and filled them with sweets. His mother, watching from a window, ordered Moniya in the house. She told him that high caste Hindus did not touch “untouchables”. When her son questioned her, she responded that Hindu customs forbid it. When Moniya disagreed, his mother had no answer but was angry with him. Karamchand Gandhi loved all his sons, but he was especially fond of the youngest. He often advised him to study well and take up a profession. Moniya worked hard, and did his lessons carefully. But he did not enjoy memorizing and was therefore weak in Sanskrit. Geometry was his favorite subject because it involved reasoning. Moniya had a friend named Sheikh. He was tall and strong. Sheik was a meat-eater and he often told Mohandas that if he ate meat he would also grow tall and strong. There was also at that time a reform movement for a change in the orthodox beliefs and practices of Hindus. Mohandas himself had heard that many well todo people had started eating meat, so he, too, tried meat. He did not like the taste of meat but as time went on, he started to like meat
13
curries. Whenever Mohandas had a meat meal outside, he had to give his mother some excuse for not eating his dinner. He knew that his parents would not forgive him. This feeling was gnawing at his heart and finally he decided not to touch meat again. Mohandas had also taken to smoking with Sheik, his brother, and another relative. He had to pilfer small amounts of money to buy cigarettes. One day, in order to pay off a debt which his brother had incurred, Mohandas stole a piece of gold jewelry. Stealing was a great sin. He knew that he had committed a great crime. He resolved never in his life to steal again. He wrote down a confession of his crime and handed the paper to his ailing father. Karamchand Gandhi read the confession. He tore up the paper without saying a word. The bits of paper fell to the floor. He sank back on his bed with a sigh. Mohandas left the room, tears streaming down his face. From that day on, Mohandas loved his father more and more. Every day he hurried home from school to wait on him. His father’s condition grew worse and at length he died. The house was filled with sorrow. Mohandas was only sixteen when his father died. To be continued
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Indo AmerIcAn news • FrIdAy, sePTemBer 30, 2011 • onlIne edITIon: www.IndoAmerIcAn-news.com
14 September 30, 2011 Vishala Grocery & Restaurant #1 9410 HY6 South Houston, Tx 77083 Phone: 281-498-0220 • 281-498-6074
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15
FINANCE CO
16 September 30, 2011
Ten Tips to Help Business owners in challenging Times
What is the sign of a good decision?SM It’s choosing a knowledgeable financial professional to help you assess and address your needs. In challenging times, when business decisions have considerable personal and economic impact, it helps to have knowledgeable advice from a network of professionals who can help owners overcome challenges and lay the groundwork for future success. Consider the following ten tips to help small and family business owners in challenging times. 1.Have a thoughtful, well-written business plan and stick to it Rather than getting caught up in daily operations of your business, set clear, realistic goals and objectives. Consider strategies that address the long-term plans of your business and how you plan to retire. 2. Seek out a network of business advisors By pulling together an informal board of directors made up of business owners in similarly-sized companies dealing with similar short-and long-term issues, owners can realize opportunities within their businesses that they may not have been able to see themselves, and they can work together to solve each others’ most pressing issues. 3. Find a financial professional with experience in serving small businesses Choose an experienced, local financial professional, trained to meet business owner needs, who you trust with your business and personal aspirations and who will help you with your plan for reaching your short-and long-term goals.
4. Know your core customers and delight them Understand your customers. Segment them and know where profitable business comes from. Make the extra effort to know how you can keep and grow your base of recurring customers. 5. Define and communicate your unique value in the market What do you do that no one else is doing? How is your service better than other services? Why should customers see you instead of your competition? Take a look at the competition; some may have changed their approach or exited the business. Develop a unique message that articulates your unique value proposition. 6. Hire better and offer good benefits Typically, the pool of talented, highlytrained, and educated people grows in a down economy as more and more people lose jobs. Find and hire strong talent. Offer voluntary benefits – those that you, as owner, offer to employees at a typically lower cost than they could obtain themselves. Voluntary benefits can be provided at no direct cost to you and reward people. 7. Revisit your overhead expenses and trim the fat Which overhead expenses can be reduced or eliminated? Can you reduce credit card fees? Discuss a reduction with your current provider. 8. Consider tapping your whole life insurance policy’s cash value, if stuck for credit Businesses hold whole life insurance policies for key person insurance, succession planning, and buy-sell arrangements. Whole
life insurance builds cash value, guaranteed. A business can take a loan from its whole life insurance policy. The policy continues to receive dividends, which – although not guaranteed – can increase the policy’s death benefit and cash value or provide a source of income to pay some or all of the premiums due. Of course, distributions under your policy (including cash dividends and partial/full surrenders) are not subject to taxation up to the amount paid into the policy (your cost basis). If the policy is a Modified Endowment Contract, policy loans and/or distributions are taxable to the extent of gain and are subject to a 10 percent tax penalty. Access to cash values through borrowing or partial surrenders can reduce the policy’s cash value and death benefit, increase the chance the policy will lapse, and may result in tax liability if the policy terminates before the death of the insured. There may be little to no cash value in a policy’s early years. 9.Diversify into a complementary business A bad economy may cause business owners to retreat to their core business, but in doing so you might miss a chance to leverage your existing infrastructure. This is a time to understand the profitability of each line of your business. Ask yourself if there is a complementary option that might bring in more profits or heighten the visibility of the company overall. For example, an owner of a coffee shop could expand into some light catering for area business functions. 10. Develop an exit strategy and succession plan Are you approaching retirement and in-
tending to sell your business for retirement income? An experienced financial professional can help you put a succession plan in place. Your customers depend on your business. Your business depends on you. In challenging times, or anytime, an experienced local financial professional can help you and your business interests.
Jimmy Abraham is a financial representative with Strategic Financial Group, LLP, a MassMutual agency who represents Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) and other companies, courtesy of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) © 2010 Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company, Springfield, MA CRN201205-134838
Indo AmerIcAn news • FrIdAy, sePTemBer 30 , 2011 • onlIne edITIon: www.IndoAmerIcAn-news.com
COMMUNITY
September 30, 2011
Photo: Navin Medivala
celebrating Thirty y c years of dance - The Feminine energy e of the Universe Gloriously emerges
17
By Sowmya NaN aNdakumar Ndakumar HOUSTON: Ragaspandana, pulsating with life, its melody and rhythm - a celebration of thirty years of teaching Bharatnatyam! The story behind Nritya School of Dance, life of Padmini Chari, disciple of Padma Shri Adyar K. Laksmanan and Padma Bhushan Kalanidhi Narayan. In the commemoration event on September 24 at 3pm, in the Jewish Community Center, a student said, “Padmini aunty has instilled in us, a great respect for the Guru-Sishya tradition, an immense appreciation for our cultural roots and all other art forms.” This much revered teacher was given a surprise felicitation by students of Nritya, Houston, and students of Nritya, New Orleans, who despite their absence, had made a DVD for this occasion expressing their gratitude. Her husband, popularly called Mohan Uncle, was invited to the podium and they shared this joyous moment in the middle of the evening’s program. This was preceded by a series of performances in the Aradhana, with several small pieces, Pushapanjali, Natyanjali, Pooja Aangikam, Jatiswaram, Thillana, etc. in which the dancers paid obeisance to Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva and Lord Nataraja. The Aradhana was performed by students ranging from the tiny tot learners to the older and more expe-
rienced performers. Other memorable pieces were Adinaya Kanna, describing the Gopis enchantment of Krishna, Devi Sthuthi, to the song Devargalai Kaarthidave Devi Thondrinaal, (the Devi emerged to protect the Devas from the Asuras), and Bo Shambo in praise of Lord Shiva. Then came a tribute to the teacher by Aditi Druv and Suchitra Sairam, who performed two pieces; Krishna Nee Begane in Yamuna Kalyani ragam, where they explored Krishna Bhakthi through the eyes of three women; Yashoda filled with maternal love and yet shocked to see her son reveal the universe in a yawn, Radha, who waited eternally for Krishna to arrive and was forever treated to a game of hide and seek and Meera, whose undying devotion remains unsurpassed. The second piece was Parathasarathy assuming his original form, in the Vishwa Roopa Darshanam, to enlighten Arjuna. The emotions of fear, doubt, meekness, the might and enormity of the almighty and Arjuna’s transcendence were well depicted by this talented duo. The grand finale, Ragaspandana was the glorious emergence of the divine feminine, Parvathy and her Navarasas, (nine emotions) set to the Navarasa varnam, Angaiyar Kanni, composed by Shri Lalgudi Jayaraman. When the invincible Goddess Meenakshi conquers all with her
army, the dancers adorned in bright colors, expressed this power and joy in their abinayam (body language, dialogues, descriptions and depictions of mental state) as they danced to the upbeat melody of Bilahari ragam describing her Anandam (happiness). The softer and more mellow in Bhavam, was Shringaram, (love), in ragam Huseni as Parvathy, in continuance of her victorious conquests, sights Lord Shiva in Kailash, and is taken by his valor and shied by his handsomeness. When Shiva burns down Manmatha, lays a kick on Yama to save Markendaya, and destroys cities of three unyielding asuras in a single arrow, and Parvathy’s Adhbutham (amazement) in Valaji ragam, were all rendered well. This was followed by ragam Saaranga for Hasyam (laughter). The story goes that when the Vaigai River flooded lands, the King commanded people to pour sand to control the water. One member from each family had to engage in this task. An old hunchbacked lady, a devotee of Shiva, unable to contribute, is relieved when a young boy offers to represent her in exchange for Pittu, a rice dish. When the king comes back he finds this boy asleep. He wakes him up and canes him but each time he canes the boy, all the others feel the pain and the boy remains laughing. The
king realizes that this is Lord Shiva in disguise and surrenders. Parvathy giggles in amusement at this sight. This was simulated in detail with immense intensity. The next portion focused on some of Meenakshi’s more feared emotions; Bibastha, (disgust), (in ragam Sucharitra), at her father, Dakshan’s disregard for Lord Shiva, because of Shiva’s ash smeared physical appear appearance, and her intimidating manifestations - Mahakali, Kapalini, Trishulini (bearer of the Trishul), Simhavasini (she who rides on the lion), and as the Devi who brought an end to several Asuras by chopping them to bits. In the portrayal of her ferociousness, the rhythm and coordination of the dancers, their abhinayam, and bhabha vam, were electrifyingly powerful, bringing to life, her (anger), rowrow dram, in Atana ragam. Her brief moment of (fear), Bhayanakam (ragam Rasikapriya) was when Kailasham, the abode of Lord Shiva was subject to a surprise attack by the demon King, Ravana. The array of emotions some tough and powerful, some soft and pleasant involved several challenging transitions in body language and facial expressions, adroitly executed by the dancers. The final swaram of the varnam was brilliantly rendered, highlighting the coordination of the dancers, and expertise of the choreographer - a culmination of energies
which left the audience quite spellbound - the thaalam emanating from their feet, resonating in our pulses. Having held us enthralled, they now made way for a captivating per performance by their teacher who most appropriately, portrayed the feminine energy’s divine emotions of Karunyam (compassion), in ragam Sahana and Shantam (peace) in ragam Nadanamakriya. It was awe inspiring to watch Padmini Chari perform the finale of Ragaspandana. The epilogue was seven dancers in the background, depicting the Devi and nine in the foreground, each portraying one of the navarasas. As is the Durga tradition, the conch was blown signifying an auspicious finish, further heightened by a standing ovation! As I left, the energies of the feminine form continued to resonate within me leaving me joyous, satisfied and at peace. Sowmya Nandakumar has a Masters in Mass Communications from the Uni University of Houston, a product of Stella Maris and Asian College of Journalism, Chennai. A media person, she has worked as assistant director for three feature films including “Vaaranam Aayiram” under Director Gautham Menon. She enjoys writing and occasionally freelances. She learns ballet at Hopestone dance studio and learns to play Carnatic music on the violin.
Indo AmerIcAn news • FrIdAy, A sePTemBer 30 , 2011 • onl Ay, o Ine I edITIon: www.IndoAmerIcAn-news.com
18 September 30, 2011
Hindi-chini chini hi-bye c
By iNdra NdraN draNi Ni Bagchi It was former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee who famously declared that India’s strategic neighbourhood stretches from Gulf of Aden to the Straits of Malacca. As India’s trade and investment in Asia catches up with, and perhaps overtakes its dealings in the west, India’s strategic stakes in South China Sea and Western Pacific Ocean are steadily increasing. China is expanding its strategic footprint westwards. With the latest mining concession from the International Seabed Authority to mine minerals and metals in south and western Indian Ocean as well as a growing engagement in Africa, it will be natural to expect China to increase it’s security presence in the Indian Ocean. Two emerging powers with a difficult bilateral relationship will be fishing in each other’s waters, and rubbing up against each other. This calls for great care. When someone in the Indian government sold a story about the Chinese protesting against India’s oil investments in South China Sea off Vietnam last month, a hyper hyperactive media and equally hyperactive global commentariat were spotting a Franz Ferdinand-Gavrilo Princip moment round the corner. Particularly since this “incident” came weeks after China “harassed” an Indian assault vessel, INS Airavat again on the South China Sea in July. An anonymous radio message on an open channel warned the Indian ship that it had no right to be in Chinese territorial waters. Not spotting anyone on the horizon and unable to correctly tracethe messing, the INS Airavat, very correctly, continued to it’s destination in Haiphong without further ado. Just to get the facts straight - in 2007, China protested against ONGC getting concessions on blocks 127 and 128 in Phu Khanh Basin located off Vietnam’s coast (which they had got in June 2006), saying they were not valid because of territorial sovereignty issues. India’s first production sharing contract in Vietnam was for Block 06-1 between ONGC and BP in Nam Con Son Basin off Vietnam in May, 1988. In late 2010, when BP was selling it’s stake in the venture because it had to pay $10 billion for the Gulf of Mexico oil spill, OVL said it wanted to buy BP’s stake, which drew the second round of protests from China in early 2011, well over six months ago. There was no other diplomatic protests from the Chinese. In fact, starting 2007, China has been warning all foreign energy companies from investing in exploration in the south China Sea. It’s not just India. Just as navies of US, Phillippines, Brunei, Malaysia etc have all reported getting similar “get-offmy-sea” messages that INS Airavat encountered. Neither of these were assaults on Indian sovereignty, nor do they signal the beginning of world war iii. What it does show is that hypernationalism in the Indian media space is just as damaging as it is in the Chinese blogosphere. India and China have a difficult relationship on land with a disputed boundary and a complicated border war. They are two emerging powers, albeit at different stages in their development, with diametrically different trajectories. There is a strong element of competition and rivalry as both countries jostle for scarce resources for their growing economies. Both powers want to change the global status quo for their own interests. This will frequently bring them up against each other. In POK, China is playing a particularly dangerous game. India therefore is well within it’s rights to develop it’s own linkages in China’s periphery, particularly with Japan, Vietnam, Korea, Australia and Indonesia. India sensibly articulated its free-sealanes policy. China, in contrast, leaped on a high horse of “undisputed sovereignty”, making the South China Sea a “core” issue like our Kashmir. That brings a parity to the game which might be to India’s favour. Indian and Chinese flags will meet in the oceans, not always as friends. We should develop a language of engagement on the seas with the Chinese, instead of confronting unpleasant surprises that can be sliced and diced in different ways. But it’s probably not a good idea to demonize China in the same way that we have demonized Pakistan. For the first time in its history, India is living next door to an aggressive and expansionist superpower in the making. Lets do it like adults. - Times of India
EDITORIAL
Back to the Pavilion
By rajdeep SardeSai S Sai It is not without irony that as the news of Tiger Pataudi’s death was filtering in, another cricket jamboree was taking off. The opening ceremony of the Champions League T20 was quintessential new India: a noisy, crass, stage-managed tamasha. If Pataudi had been watching, he’d probably have switched the TV set off. The world of Nawab Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi was a universe of dignity, civility and understated elegance. He was a superstar in a pre-television era, a style icon who didn’t need to walk the ramp, a Nawab who didn’t need to advertise his pedigree, an original Tiger before the wannabee cubs took over. In a sense, Pataudi typified the 60s generation of romantic dreams, of chivalrous men and enchanting women who were enamoured with the idea of a Nehruvian India. If actor Shammi Kapoor redefined cinema in this period by wooing his heroines with passionate ardour, Pataudi changed the face of Indian cricket through his charismatic persona. He gave the sport a ‘star’ value, a new-found aggression that typified the spirit of a nation yearning to break free of its colonial baggage. In some ways, Pataudi was an unusual candidate to lead a ‘democratic’ upsurge that would eventually revolutionise Indian cricket. He was, after all, a Nawab of a small princely state, who had studied in Winchester and at Oxford. A child of privilege, he was acutely conscious of his origins, and when the privy purses were abolished, he even contested an election in 1971 from Gur Gurgaon in protest. When he lost the Indian captaincy that same year to a ‘commoner’ in Ajit Wadekar, he initially refused to play under Wadekar’s leadership. And yet, he was, as historian Mukul Kesavan aptly remarked, a ‘republican’ prince, someone who led a cricket team that brought together people from different class backgrounds under one national flag. Until Pataudi arrived on the scene, Indian cricket had seen a turbulent relationship with its princely patrons. There had been enough instances where feudalism ruled over merit, most famously in 1936 when the Maharaja of Vizianagaram had sent home the original ‘people’s’ hero Lala Amarnath from the England tour.
Hanif Mohammad and the Nawab of Pataudi (Mansur Ali Khan) chat at Lord’s ahead of playing for the Rest of the World in 1965
Unlike Vizzy, Pataudi knew how to hold a cricket bat rather well, and perhaps it was the faith in his own ability that allowed him to discover new talent from across India. Indian cricket didn’t win much in the 1960s under Pataudi’s leader leadership, but for the first time, a genuine sense of meritocracy crept into the game. The Indian middle classes were coming into their own on the cricket field with Mumbai’s maidans and gymkhanas leading the way. Pataudi provided confidence to this new generation of urban middle class cricketers to express themselves with a self-belief that had been missing in the initial post-independence period. Even if they lost more games than they won, a desire to compete was instilled in the team. In particular, it was Pataudi’s cricketing instincts that saw him introduce into Indian cricket a quartet of spin bowlers — Bishan Singh Bedi, Erapalli Prasanna, Bhagwat Chandrasekhar and S Venkataraghavan — and convert them into potential match-winners. If 1971 was to prove a turning point in Indian cricket, then the foundation for success was laid by Pataudi’s inspirational leadership through the 1960s. His Test batting record was modest, but to judge Pataudi by the volume of runs he made would be unfair. That he was able to play cricket after losing sight in one eye is itself quite remarkable. That despite the handicap, he could take on the fastest bowlers in world cricket is an achievement almost unparalleled in the sport. And yet, Pataudi wore the burden of his
disability very lightly. As he once said in an interview, “I may have lost an eye, but I did not lose my ambition!” Indeed, under that gentle, easygoing manner lurked a fierce competitor, someone blessed with a natural talent for all sport. He was perhaps the first Indian cricketer to actually ‘enjoy’ fielding, an aspect of the game that was seen at times to conflict with its princely origins. Traditionally, princes were meant to bat in Indian cricket, leaving the more arduous task of fielding to lesser mortals. Pataudi changed that by literally bringing the eye of the tiger to the art of fielding. Pataudi was a trend-setter in other ways too. His family had been divided by Partition and he had aunts, uncles and cousins on both sides of the border. But he never allowed the scars of those divisions to affect his secular cosmopolitanism. He defied family and custom to marry Sharmila Tagore in an age where Hindu-Muslim marriages were uncommon. It was the first sportsman-cinema alliance, and easily the most successful. And yet, for all his achievements on and off the field, he remained at heart the shy public schoolboy, an anglicised gent in a desi environment. Not surprisingly, his afterlife in cricket was a shade more difficult. Perhaps, the frenetic pace of new India frazzled him. He was occasionally tempted into trying his hand at politics, but clearly he was not cut out for the rough and tumble of elections. Nor was he comfortable with a cricketing establishment populated by men with petty minds and kingsize egos. Pataudi was never going to bow and scrape before officials who wouldn’t know the differ difference between a square cut and a late cut, and barring a brief encounter with the IPL governing council, he chose to stay away from sports administration. He did, however, become the president of the Players Association, which was perhaps his way of reaching out to the next generation of cricketers. Today, of course, with multi-crore contracts, the players don’t feel the need for any association. But if today’s cricketers are cash-rich celebrities, its because of the torch that was lit by the likes of Pataudi many years ago.
- Hindustan Times (Rajdeep Sardesai is editor-in-chief, IBN 18. The views expressed by the author are personal)
IndoAmerican Indo Am American 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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COMMUNITY
September 30, 2011
nIAc c Hosts Fundraiser for congressman Ted Poe
HOUSTON: Over 100 Indian Americans from Houston gathered on September 18, at India House to show their support and gratitude to Congressman Ted Poe for his introduction of HR 1699 in US Congress. This event was organized by National Indian American Coalition (NIAC) with the support of Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Houston, USINPAC, and many leading citizens of Houston. NIAC has recently been organized to unite all Americans of Indian descent to raise their voices and increase their political clout in support of issues important to the Indian community, such as deficit spending, taxes, public education on Hindu culture, immigration laws, and Pakistan sponsored terrorism here and in India. This first national conservative leaning group of Indian Americans is supported by a staunchly fiscal conservative Governor of South Carolina, Nikki Haley, who along with Governor Rick Perry of Texas, has taken a national leadership role in support of constitutional amendment to balance federal budget. Guests were welcomed by Dr. Devinder Bhatia, Houston Chair of NIAC who also gave the audience a brief professional and political history of Congressman Ted Poe. Judge Poe was a tough judge with innovative ideas like requiring convicted felons to care for their victims. As a five term congressman, he has never shied away from introducing bold legislation like HR 1699 to freeze foreign aid to Pakistan. Dr. Bhatia’s introduction was followed by a short video of NIAC with a brief background of its founding members comprising primarily of Indian American entrepreneurs laserfocused on issues important to Indian Americans. Shalli Kumar, Chairman of AVG, a mini-conglomerate of electronics companies with headquar headquarters in Chicago, and also one of the founding members of NIAC told the audience: “ There are almost 3 million Indian Americans in the US with the highest median income and the highest education of any demographic. There are 400,000 Indian American owned businesses employing 1.2 million workers and contributing $150 billion a year to the GDP of the country. One out of seven Indian Americans is an entrepreneur. So, we have about
Prior to serving in Congress, Ted Poe served in the United States Air Force Reserves, taught high school and college classes and earned a law degree from the University of Houston half the population of Jewish Americans, with even better education and economic stats, but ask yourself as to how much influence do we have on national policy as compared to the Jewish people…Since we are half, so do we carry half the clout? 25%? 10%? How about 1%, No body seriously doubts that it is not even on the radar. And that is what National Indian American Coalition is set to change…” One of the most hilarious moments of the event came when Kumar presented a satirical video of how the Federal Bulb Change Team changes a street light bulb. It takes three men to change the light bulb. The video was created by his son, Arjun Aditya Kumar. “Government controlled economies all over the world have failed. Communism failed, socialism failed. A lot of you might be surprised to know that as recent as 1990, it used to take six months to get a new telephone line in India. It was License Raj, 80 Government agencies had to be satisfied before you could manufacture anything. Then in 1991, India was left with only two weeks of dollars when International Monetary Fund forced it to open the economy, empower the people, let their genius flow, and India has never looked back. It is projected to exceed US GDP within the next twenty years. As NIAC derives its inspiration
from Presidents John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan, Mr. Kumar challenged President Obama to follow the policies of one of the most admired Presidents in American history, from your his party, John F Kennedy? Reducing the top rate from 90 to 70 increased government revenue by 62%. When Pres. Reagan reduced the top rate from 70 to 28%, it eliminated recessions all together and the tax revenue grew by a whopping 99%. Turning to the issue of state sponsored terrorism by Pakistan, Kumar showed most riveting video clips of Mumbai terror when Kasab and his accomplice with direct supervision of Pakistani military, opened fire at Victoria Train station in Mumbai killing 52 innocent passengers, Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs and Christians. Congressman Ted Poe took the stage to a tumultuous welcome from the audience. He recited the story of Patel, a small businessman, who was shot dead by intruders in his shop while his ten year old son watched behind the cooler in horror. As a Judge, he had presided over that trial. Mr. Patel’s last words were: “somebody stop him”. In that case, the Jury stopped the perpetrators from committing other crimes by sentencing them to death. The case of terrorists killing innocent civilians in India and US is no different, and the purpose of HR 1699 is to do just that. He thanked the Indian American community for raising funds for him as it would send a strong message to other congressmen to come out in support of this bill. Congressman Poe is totally in favor of reforming legal immigration to the US, including increase in H1 Visas, as well as stream lining immigration process to reduce time for spouse visas for green card holders. He encour encouraged his constituents to contact his office for help with any immigration issues. Commenting on President Obama’s latest jobs program, he told the audience that the problem with the economy is Government spending, not taxes. The federal government takes in 5 billion dollars a day in tax revenue and spends $9 billion a day. Until we cut this spending, the jobs environment can not be improved. In that context he commented that Mr. Kumar should have 12 guys changing a light bulb and the bulb would be a CCFL bulb, that you simply can not count on Government spending your money wisely.
19
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20 September 30, 2011
INDIA
India’s o other Hunger strike: s 11 y years and counting
By NilaN ilaNja NjaN jaNa Na Bhowmick (Time) When Indian activist Anna Hazare went on a 12-day hunger strike last month to protest government corruption, he became an instant celebrity across the country. India’s television networks devoted countless hours of coverage to the fast and hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets in support of Hazare, who was trying to push Parliament to adopt Irom Sharmila, who has been on an 11-year hunger strike protesting an Indian anti-terror legislation creating law, leaves a court hearing in Imphal, India, on August 30, 2011 Photo: Bullu Raj / AP an independent anticorruption agency. In the end, lawmakers capitulated and defense, but a judicial inquiry found no backlash over Sharmila’s protest for the agreed to adopt a number of his provi- evidence to support this. first time, some top officials appear insions — and Hazare ended his public Because the media hasn’t devoted terested in finding a solution that would campaign. much attention to Sharmila, who is being allow her to break her fast. At the beIn a remote region across the country, force-fed through a plastic tube in her ginning of September, Home Minister another activist has been quietly waging nose in a Manipur hospital, images of her P. Chidambaram said his ministry was her own hunger strike — without fanfare thin frame and gaunt face don’t regularly “trying its best to revisit AFSPA. But one or media attention — for the last 11 years. reach the public. This has allowed the needs to build consensus.” Federal Law Irom Sharmila has been fasting in Ma- central government to continue to look Minister Salman Khurshid also met with nipur, a small state of 2.5 million people the other way, too, Loitongbam says. Sharmila’s supporters last week to discuss in the far northeastern arm of India, to try “Manipur is disconnected from mainland a possible end to the stalemate. (The to force the government to repeal a contro- India. No one really bothers about what Defense Ministry and the armed forces, versial law called the Armed Forces Spe- happens there,” says Sreeradha Datta, meanwhile, have resolutely opposed any cial Powers Act (AFSPA), which gives director of the Kolkata-based Maulana amendment to the act). the Indian army and paramilitary forces Abul Kalam Azad Institute of Asian StudWhile Hazare’s movement has breathed sweeping powers to arrest people without ies and an expert in northeastern Indian new life into Sharmila’s struggle, it rewarrants and use deadly force against affairs. “Sharmila’s fast has never been a mains to be seen whether she’ll attract suspects without fear of prosecution. So priority for them [the government].” the same groundswell of support among why has Sharmila’s fast — undoubtedly That might be about to change. Seek- everyday Indians. Her backers are now the longest-running in the world — gone ing to capitalize on Hazare’s publicity, planning a massive rally in Delhi on virtually unnoticed, while Hazare’s much- Sharmila made an emotional appeal to Oct. 2, Mahatma Gandhi’s birth date. If shorter protest captivated the nation? her fellow hunger striker last month to support for Sharmila does indeed reach Analysts say the main reason is that take up her cause, as well. Although a fever pitch in the country, the governSharmila’s cause remains a largely region- Hazare’s aide has declined on his behalf, ment will no doubt have to revisit the al issue owing to the specialized nature of citing fears it would dilute Hazare’s anti- recommendations of a review committee the 53-year-old law. Babloo Loitongbam, corruption agenda, Sharmila’s request headed by a retired Supreme Court judge, a Manipur-based human rights activist brought new media attention to her strike which issued a report in 2005 calling on and close associate of Sharmila’s, says and raised questions about the govern- the government to repeal AFSPA and the act only really affects people living ment’s continued apathy towards her incorporate key provisions of the act into in areas with frequent disturbances like case. In an interview with the Indian a law that applies to the whole country, the insurgency-wracked northeast, which television channel CNN-IBN this month, not just the northeastern states. “The has historically been opposed to the cen- she was asked what she would like to say complaint of discrimination would then tral government and long advocated for to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, if no longer be valid,” the report said. secession. “Whatever comes out of these given the chance. She replied: “First, I The reason the Indian government areas comes filtered through the lens of would like to request him to just look at hasn’t taken this step is because Sharmila national security,” he says. “There seems me like Anna Hazare.” hasn’t been considered a real political to be a feeling among the middle class and Faced with the prospect of a popular threat. At least not yet. the patriotic Indian that doing away with the act would be giving [in] to the secessionist calls from these areas.” Northeastern India, made up of seven states virtually surrounded by Bhutan, Bangladesh, China and Myanmar, is one of the most neglected and underdevelFull time / Part time for Physician’s Office on I-45 / oped regions in the country. There are a FM 1960. The job requires Checking massive number of security forces in the Vital Signs, Precription writing, patient communication region engaged in counter-insurgency operations — Manipur state alone has 12 and some front office skills. active insurgencies. Sharmila, a 39-yearKnowledge and Experience in medical field essential. old poet, began her hunger strike in November 2000 after security forces allegedly shot and killed 10 people, includContact: Tel:281-300-8899 Fax:281-580-5665 ing teenagers, following an explosion on a road outside a village in Manipur. The email:sukhbir@hotmail.com, soldiers later claimed they acted in self-
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COMMUNITY
September 30, 2011
Home and the world w
21
Girish Karnad’s autobiography “Adaadata Ayushya” stands tall in the Kannada literary world. The writer says autobiographies are of little worth if they do not seek to speak the truth
By deepa gaN aNe NeSh (Hindu) “Nenapugalannu nevarisuvudu” is a beautiful, lyrical phrase meaning “caressing memories”; the dreaminess of this utterance can douse the past in a romantic haze. But, for Girish Karnad this poetic phrase is used as a disclaimer in his recently-released autobiography “Adaadata Ayushya”. One of the most definitive works of Kannada literature, “Adaadata Ayushya” is not merely a chronicle of events; it is a facing up to one’s self. This unusual piece of literature sparkles with the bluntness of truth. Unravelling of the self “If Dr. Madhumalathi Gune had turned up at the hospital the day when my mother went for an abor abortion, I wouldn’t have existed” Karnad writes in the very first pages, offering the book to the memory of the doctor. The moment of shock and how it quietly altered one’s notion of life, in a way, sets the tone for how the “self” is unravelled in the rest of the narrative. “I did not want it to be a tome of selfglorification,” says Karnad, among the most extraordinary screenplay writers. But tell him that rarely do Indian autobiographies glow in the truth of imperfections, and he says: “True. But, if you cannot state things as they happened, there is no point
Girish Karnad Photo: Sreenivasa Murthy V.
in writing an autobiography.” It was never meant to be a work of “settling scores” or pouring out “angst”. The greater thing for Karnad was to talk about all those relationships that mattered to him — those that shaped his emotions and intellect. “In the process, if I left out all the women
who had a very big role to play in my life, it would have been very unfair. I had quite a few good women friends, who played a very important role in my life and left a lasting impact on me. I decided to write about them and my wife Saraswati did not have a problem with it.”
A marvellous era So, while it is largely a record of the people he met and the influence they had on him — from Sirsi and Dhar Dharwad to Oxford, Madras and Mumbai — it was also a recounting of the experience of having lived through a marvellous era. “I was ten years old when India attained freedom. In the 1950s, it was Satyajit Ray, followed by the parallel cinema movement. When New India was emerging in the 1960s, I returned from a very momentous period in Oxford. I was lucky to return when I had no clue what the future had for me. But, doors kept opening, one after the other. The Academies came into existence and the National School of Drama was established, television came in the 1980s.... there were many firsts, and I was at the forefront of that experience. I wanted to capture the excitement of that era,” explains Karnad, who says that the second part of his autobiography will be a sociological account, which forms the backdrop of the first part. Much of Karnad’s emotional world
is shaped by his family and relatives, and the Konkani language. But his intellectual world, in his early years, was largely shaped by the West and the English language. “Indian identity was a big thing in those days. I am grateful to the West for helping me come out of that hangover Rich in emotion Karnad’s autobiography is rich in detail and emotion. It says things that public personalities would rather conceal, and manages to bring on its canvas an entire gamut of things between home and the world. The Saraswat community, women and their hardships (the beginnings of which can be seen in his foreword to Vasanthi Padukone’s “Nanna Maga Gurudatta” 1977), his deep attachment to his parents and siblings and unswerving commitment to his friendships. Most importantly, it stands to question the manner in which we construct people. “Adaadata Ayushya” shines with honesty, and by the end of the book your admiration for the writer has grown in leaps.
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22 September 30, 2011
Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple (JET USA Houston)
Grand Deepavali Celebrations and Sri Rama Seva His Holiness Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji will be in Houston for this Momentous Six-Day Event Oct. 26 to Oct. 31, 2011
Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple (JET USA Houston)
Grand Deepavali Celebrations and Sri Rama Seva His Holiness Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji will be in Houston for this Momentous Six-Day Event Oct. 26 to Oct. 31, 2011 EVENT HIGHLIGHTS:
*DEVOTEES WILL PERFORM SAAMOOHIKA DHANALAKSHMI PUJA AND SRI SITA RAMA KALYANAM
*SAHASRA KALASA ABHISHEKAM TO SRI RAM PARIVAAR
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS: *5-DAY SRI RAMA YAJNA BY 40 VEDIC *DEVOTEES WILL PERFORM SAAMOOHIKA DHANALAKSHMI PUJA AND SRI SITA RAMA KALYANAM *SAHASRA KALASA ABHISHEKAM TO SRI RAM PARIVAAR
*5-DAY SRISCHOLARS RAMA YAJNA BY 40 VEDIC SCHOLARS *DAILY DISCOURSES BY SRI CHINNA JEEYAR DISCOURSES BY SRI CHINNA SWAMIJI * INDAILY ENGLISH *CULTURAL PROGRAMS AND JEEYAR SWAMIJI IN HEALTH ENGLISHFAIR BY VT SEVA
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FOR SCHEDULE OF EVENTS OR TO SPONSOR, LET US JOIN AS A FAMILY AND PLEASE VISIT: PARTICIPATE IN SRI RAMA SEVA Visit: www.ashtalakshmi.org Ph: (281) FOR 498-2344 UNIVERSAL PROSPERITY E-mail: sriramaseva2011@gmail.com (LOK KALYAN)
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INDIA
September 30, 2011
once There w o was A Tiger...
23
Batsman, fielder, captain or charmer—Pataudi’s incandescence lit up my boyhood
By ajaz aShraf (Outlook) I began to feel old and weary as I heard the news about the death of Mansur Ali Khan, who before the abolition of the privy purse in 1971 figured on the scoreboard as simply the Nawab of Pataudi, spectacularly robbed of all other markers of his individuality other than his privileged class. Indeed, the humbling realisation of having already lived through a few decades dawns on us, quite suddenly and ferociously, only at the news about the death of our childhood heroes. As long as they are alive, we believe we are still young. I burrowed deep into my memory to relive the magical moment when I discovered the man they also called the Tiger, my first hero. It was 1969 and I was still a boy in shorts. Around the quaint Murphy radio were huddled the family elders, listening to the commentary—my first ever—on the cricket match between India and Australia in Bombay. Pataudi had stroked the Aussies around. He entered the nervous 90s; he reached 95, prompting an uncle of mine to say, “He’s capable of hitting a six to reach his century, you know.” The crowd at the Brabourne stadium was already in raptures. Suddenly, there was a hush. A mournful voice over the radio said, “The Nawab of Pataudi is out.” An incredibly long pause followed, and the commentator floated in, again, “The Nawab of Pataudi is out.” He paused before adding,
Azharuddin’s advent, Pataudi was a compelling argument to silence those who believed the Muslims were doomed to be discriminated against in India. It was consequently inevitable for many to read a communal subtext in the BCCI’s decision to sack Pataudi as captain for the 1971 tours of the West Indies and England. He dropped out of the team, choosing instead to contest—and eventually lose—the 1971 parliamentary election from Gurgaon. For me, his defeat was a shock as big as his dismissal on 95 against Australia. How was I to know that rural India didn’t care for a prince who from then on, because of the abolition of the privy purse, was to M.A.K. Pataudi (1941-2011) appear on the scoreboard as Mansur Ali Khan (Pataudi). “The Nawab returns to the pavilion.” But for our generation, he was Pataudi In the room the elders had their heads without parenthesis. By then, I knew stobowed. It was my discovery of what ries about him—his father was Nawab makes a hero—he has the power to of Pataudi Sr, who for a long time was make a nation rejoice, he can also turn the only cricketer to have played for a people sad. two countries; the car accident in which As I embraced Pataudi as my first he lost an eye and which was popularly childhood hero, I discovered innumer innumer- believed to have been replaced with one able stories about the man who, much to of stone; how he saw every object in my surprise, had another, rather ordinary double and the method he devised to name—Mansur Ali Khan. His incontest- identify the real one; how he batted with able Muslimness, I soon discovered, one eye and one leg to score a fighting was a crucial factor behind the love my 75 against the Aussies Down Under; his family, as also the community, bestowed electric fielding, his flamboyance, his upon him. Long before Mohammed genius as a captain. And, not to forget, his
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propensity to get out as soon as Sharmila Tagore walked in to watch him. “He wants to spend time with her, don’t you know,” it was said. It was consequently a great relief to hear about the news of their marriage, the photographs of which the Urdu magazine Shama spread over several pages. We felt the injustice done to him in 1971 had been reversed when he was reinstated as captain in 1974 against the visiting West Indies. The breathtaking series, which India lost 3-2, reinforced for all times to come the enduring romance about Pataudi— he scripted an Indian fightback after trailing 2-0. A batting cameo in the Cal-
cutta Test augmented the Pataudi lore. Hit on the chin by a Roberts bouncer, retiring hurt to get the wound stitched, he returned to hit Vanburn Holder for 19 runs in one over. Etched forever on the mind is the image of Pataudi, his chin taped, leading his men around the Eden for a victory lap. As my memory unspools, I receive a text message from the uncle who in 1969 thought Pataudi could reach a century with a six: “V V upset to hear of Pataudi’s death. He was my childhood hero and remained one till his dying day.” With the family of Pataudi, we now too mourn—for what he meant to us, for an era gone by.
s saraswathi Pooja at Vedic Heritage school s
PEARLAND: With the Navrathri celebration around the corner, Vedic Heritage School (VHS) at Sri Meenakshi temple in Pearland, Texas celebrated Saraswathi Pooja for this academic year 2011-12. About more than 150 students and parents, and more than 30 teachers participated in the Saraswathi Pooja last Sunday on Sept 25 in the Youth center of Meenakshi Temple. Every student from the ages of 4 – 16 years had a photo of Goddess Saraswathi and per performed the pooja along with the Priest Parameswaran. The pooja started by
chanting of Saraswathi Namastubhyam by students, led by the bhajan teachers followed by recitation of Saraswathi Ashtottaram with help. This is one of the five celebrations that VHS help the students to enjoy with a grand finale of YEP (Year End Program) in May. VHS is strengthening every year, is ever growing with more than 200 students. Although, most of the programs are well thought out, planned and executed by three coordinators, success alone is brought about innumerable help from parents and, teachers volunteers.
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24 September 30, 2011 SENIOR HEALTH m medicare n news: enrollment Periods that Happen every e e y year for Part c and Part d Begin early this year y By Sudhir mathuria Enrollment Period October 15–December 7 During Annual Election Period (AEP) for Medicare Advantage AND Medicare prescription drug coverage. What You Can Do? • Change from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan. • Change from a Medicare Advantage Plan back to Original Medicare. • Switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another Medicare Advantage Plan. • Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan that doesn’t offer drug coverage to a Medicare Advantage Plan that offers drug coverage. • Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan that offers drug coverage to a Medicare Advantage Plan that doesn’t offer drug coverage. • Join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. • Switch from one Medicare Prescription Drug Plan to another Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. • Drop your Medicare prescription drug coverage completely. Disenrollment Period January 1 – February 14 2012 What You Can Do? If you’re in a Medicare Advantage Plan, you can leave your plan and switch to Original Medicare. If you switch to Original Medicare during this period, you will have until February 14 to also join a Medicare
your birthday: If your birthday isn’t on the first day of the month, your Part B coverage starts the first day of your birthday month. If your birthday is on the first day of the month, your coverage will start the first day of the prior month. If you enroll in Part B the month you turn 65 or during the last 3 months of your Initial Enrollment Period, your Part B start date will be delayed.
Joy of Aging.... Prescription Drug Plan to add drug coverage. Your coverage will begin the first day of the month after the plan gets your enrollment form. Note: During this period, you can’t do the following: • Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan. • Switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another. • Switch from one Medicare Prescription Drug Plan to another. • Join, switch, or drop a Medicare Medical Savings Account Plan. • If you are new to Medicare When
Can You Sign Up for Part A and Part B? Initial Enrollment Period You can sign up when you’re first eligible for Part B. For example, if you’re eligible for Part B when you turn 65, this is a 7-month period that begins 3 months before the month you turn 65, includes the month you turn 65, and ends 3 months after the month you turn 65. If you enroll in Part B during the first 3 months of your Initial Enrollment Period, your coverage start date will depend on
General Enrollment Period If you didn’t sign up for Part A and/or Part B (for which you pay monthly premiums) when you were first eligible, you can sign up between January 1–March 31 each year. Your coverage will begin July 1. You may have to pay a higher premium for late enrollment. Special Enrollment Period If you didn’t sign up for Part A and/ or Part B (for which you pay monthly premiums) when you were first eligible because you’re covered under a group health plan based on current employment, you can sign up for Part A and/or Part B as follows: Anytime that you or your spouse (or family member if you’re disabled) are working, and you’re covered by a group health plan through the employer or union based on that work OR During the 8-month period that begins the month after the employment ends or the group health plan coverage ends, whichever happens first.
Usually, you don’t pay a late enrollment penalty if you sign up during a Special Enrollment Period. This Special Enrollment Period doesn’t apply to people with End Stage Renal Disease. You may also qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you’re a volunteer serving in a foreign country. Note: If you have COBRA coverage or a retiree health plan, you don’t have coverage based on current employment. You’re not eligible for a Special Enrollment Period when that coverage ends.
Sudhir Mathuria, a Houstonian for over 30 years, has been an active participant in various community associations. He is a licensed proffesional for Medi Medicare and Medicaid related health care plans. He can be reached by phone at 713-771-2900 or via email at sudhir@ MyMedicarePlanning.com. For more information, visit: www.My www.MyMedicarePlanning.com
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HOROSCOPE ARIES Mar 21 - Apr 20: As your perception of life and the circumstances you find your yourself in become sharper, you will feel more at ease and will relax. You will feel happy and squeeze time out for family outings and socializing. You have an amiable nature and it is easy for you to endear yourself to others and forge intimate bonds. There may be some setbacks, delays and unforeseen expenses. You will enjoy the good things of life and will not let petty matters upset you. TAURUS Apr 21 - May 21 The time is ideal to set targets in your relationships. Pamper the ego of your beloved if you want the excitement of your courtship to stay. Intimate relationships in all spheres will come to the fore you might have to settle some inter-per inter-personal bitterness and past grudges. Life is not exactly a bed of roses, but this is the right time to assuage frayed tempers and tactfully provide balm to all your troubled relationships. You will give quality time to your family, but you know that you have to provide for them too. GEMINI May 22 - Jun 21: As your outlook on life undergoes a change, you will become more positive and optimistic while dealing with people and events, and more spontaneous. You will not let work pressures stress you out, rather you will pace your work in an efficient way that you have enough time to lay back and relax as well. Your new positive attitude will also enhance your happiness. Your relationship with your beloved one will become more intimate, and will share happy times with friends. There may be unforeseen expenses, though, but you will manage to sail through. CANCER Jun 22 - Jul 23: You have experienced success at all levels, and are well on the course to achieving even more glory. Not everything is always smooth and easy. There may be some frustrating setbacks this week, but instead of venting your anger, you will compromise to take care of the matters satisfactorily. There is a great deal of work pressure, but you are capable enough to handle it. As something of an escape mechanism, though, you pamper yourself by going on a shopping spree and indulging yourself. LEO July 24 - Aug 23: This is a testing time for you. There will be delays, setbacks, distressing situations, and generally everything will appear to be gloomy. Do not take any unnecessary risks. This is not a good time to begin new projects. Compromising will be the key in most situations. There is a danger of accidents, illnesses and hospitalization. You will face a financial crunch, so you will need to be very careful about your expenses, even daily expenses may require you to tap into your savings. Things can’t get any worse, but it is a good time for doing yoga and meditation to tide over the difficult circumstances. VIRGO Aug 24 - Sep 23: You will feel disoriented because events are taking place at too hectic a pace for you, and life has become too unpredictable for your comfort. Try your best to bring in some uniformity and steadiness to your life. You find yourself longing for some peace and tranquillity as you are fed up with the wild mood swings that you have been experiencing. You find yourself on the threshold of a confused phase in your life. You will be called upon to address personal and professional issues. Even though life is becoming increasingly overwhelming, you you will try not to break any promises.
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LIBRA Sep 24 - Oct 23: During this phase, your consciousness will open up to many unusual aspects of your life. You gradually got drawn into supernatural phenomena such as an interest in spirits, witches, occult matters and even life after death. Your progress through the year has hardly been smooth, with your flights of fancy bringing with it many twists, turns and complications, and now is the time to get back to brass-tacks. Look at your investments, finances and other material aspects of your life to stay grounded. SCORPIO Oct 24 - Nov 22: Taking centrestage in your life now will be your family, and your desire to make spiritual progress. Your personal associations will be important, and there is a possibility of some love, romance, a wedding, or even some gambling and speculative activities. Scor Scorpios are generally greatly attracted by the mysteries of this world and beyond, parapsychology, and occult phenomena. All this will make it dif difficult for you to cope with the practical aspects of life. You will see that there are others who are facing the same situations. SAGITTARIUS Nov 23 - Dec 22: You are in the fast lane heading towards success. You are hell-bent on succeeding in your ventures. You get all the breaks at the right time. Things are smoothly and rapidly progressing in the desired direction, with ease. Finances will be enough, but there will be an equal amount flowing out, because you are generous by your very nature and love to spend on your loved ones. A great deal of entertaining is on the cards, your family ties will strengthen, and your general outlook on life is bright. CAPRICORN Dec 23 - Jan 20: The rapidly changing scenario in your life will unsettle your daily routine. Changes in your work schedule and in your domestic affairs, with perhaps even an illness in the family, will throw your budget out of gear. Expenses will mount, but every coin has two sides, and in your case the positive side is that intimacy with family members will increase and the domestic atmosphere will bring you cheer. It is the obstacles that you face in life that bring out the best in people, obstacles will make you stronger and able to face your responsibilities. AQUARIUS Jan 21 - Feb 19: The emotional quotient will be high this week. You are walking a tightrope, so be careful. There doesn’t seem to be anything working in your favor, and you will have to keep compromising in every walk of life. You will spend time at home trying to solve many domestic matters, but you will feel distracted all the time. Your expenses too will shoot up. It is not exactly an easy week. You will feel utterly dejected, hold on for a little while longer, as the tide is sure to change PISCES Feb 20 - Mar 20: New friends and contacts will predominate, and your life now will rotate around personal and professional relationships. A little shopping binge will be therapeutic. Your emotions will peak. There will be intense bonding with your kith and kin, and as a sort of catharsis takes place, your tears of joy, sorrow, anger, love and repentance will overflow. As always you will react from the very depths of your heart there was never a doubt about the genuineness of your feelings and the phase will change you inside-out.
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