A HALLMARK PRODUCT
www.namasteynt.com.au Issue 03 | January 2015
T: (08) 89819111 Ext: 111 • 3/60 Mcminn St. Darwin 0800 PO Box 3924 Darwin NT 0801 www.facebook.com/namasteynt
www.namasteynt.com.au
Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
Features 6
Main Feature Time-tested Solutions An Ayurvedic expert teaches us about the ancient medical science of Ayurveda and how it’s still prevalent today.
9
Environment and Recycling An experienced recycler shares her views on protecting the environment and her tips and tricks to making the most out of your unwanted items.
11
Migrant Stories - True Darwinian A local Nepalese student who recently won the “Chief Minister’s NT Export and Industry Award” sits down and tells us about his journey from Ghaikur to Darwin.
15
Special Story Let’s Make School Holidays Fun! A proud mum of two little girls gives us some tips and tricks to make the school holidays much more interesting... and they’re not just for the kids.
20
My First Few Days In Australia A Indian girl who came to Australia for higher studies and a better life narrates her story.
24
Health - Stroke Stroke affects millions of people around the world each year. A local woman who was personally affected by the lack of action after a stroke, reveals some warning signs.
3
www.namasteynt.com.au Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
4
Our Mnemonic
Publisher: Hallmark Computer Pty Ltd. Editor: Neethi Ashok Creative Head: Boben Mammen Graphic Design: Hallmark Designs ©2014 Namastey NT magazine is published monthly for Hallmark. All rights reserved. Points of view expressed do not necessarily represent those of Namastey NT. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject all advertising matter. The publisher assumes no liability for return or safety of unsolicited art, photographs or manuscripts. Mandate and Mission of Namastey NT Namastey NT, published for members Indian Sub continent and South East Asians living in Northern Territory and the larger community as a continuing education service to keep them informed of trends and issues all across Northern Territory and beyond. The magazine is a forum for discussion, a place for news, and a source of ideas for the development and improvement of the community in the region. Specifically, Namastey NT publishes articles on topics relevant to the South east Asian Community. The magazine also publishes a wide range of columns and features with information and commentary of interest across a broad range of divisions and readers. All materials submitted for inclusion in Namastey NT are subject to editing for consistency, length, and style. In the event that significant changes result from editing decisions, the submitting author(s) will be contacted for review and approval.
Contributors Ritika Singhal is a typical modern-day girl who likes to maintain a perfect balance between her personal and professional life. After successfully completing her Double Masters degree from USA, she moved to Australia in 2011 and worked with Bupa Australia and Charles Darwin University. She now owns Jim’s Bookkeeping Arafura along with her husband Himanshu Bhatia.
How to Submit Your Article or Idea Namastey NT welcomes submissions and queries of articles to be included in the magazine. If you’ve already written the article, please feel free to submit it at any time. We are also happy to hear from you if you’re about to start your article, or you have an idea for one and are wondering whether Namastey NT might be interested. Send all articles and ideas to the Editor of Namastey NT: Neethi Ashok Email: neethi@hallmark.com.au Naamastey NT features short articles (~400 to 750 words) written in a conversational tone (i.e. accessible to a broad audience). If you have an article or an idea that is substantially longer or shorter than this — shorter than 400 words or as long as 1,500 words — please contact the editors before submitting it. Photographs, illustrations, or other graphics are encouraged where they augment the article. Submit your finished article in electronic format (preferably Word or RTF) as a simple attachment to email. It should be in Times New Roman, 12-point, single-spaced throughout, and with no fancy formatting. Photographs and illustrations should be sent as separate files/documents and not imbedded in the text document. Please also provide a brief bio, including at least your current job title and institutional affiliation (or other preferred identifying information) as well as complete contact information at the end of your article.
Copyright, Permissions, Deposit, and Republication Namastey NT is an open access publication. Unless otherwise specified, all articles comply with the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International license. For photos that contain a recognized individual, or a recognizable portion of an individual, authors should secure the individual’s permission in writing for use of the photo in Namastey NT. Photos taken at public events or news events, or crowd shots taken in a public place, do not require permission from the subjects. Please ensure that any photographs or illustrative material are compliant with the Creative Commons license. If you wish your submission (text, photograph, illustrative material) to be covered under a different license, please contact the Editor-in-Chief. Open Shelf generally does not publish articles that have been published elsewhere, except under unusual circumstances. Photographs and Illustrations Please supply photographs and illustrations as attachments to email. Photos must be saved as a TIFF, JPEG, or EPS, and in colour with a good tonal range. Please identify the subject, activity, place, and other relevant details shown in the photo, and provide a brief text for a caption. The same applies to other illustrative material such as drawings, prints, graphs, charts, etc. All submitted material is subject to editing.
Publication Schedule Namastey NT publishes on a continuous schedule with new material being published every month. Submissions are accepted any time throughout the year.
Padmaja is a Dental surgeon from India and holds a Masters in Sustainable development and advanced diploma in Dental Hygiene. She was a globe trotter from childhood - lived and worked in many countries before moving to Australia in 2009. She enjoys multi-linguistic movies, music and gardening. Currently she is practicing as dental hygienist and is passionate about dental health.
Rachita Jain is a teacher who has worked in over ten schools in NT. She is a proud mum of two little girls. After completing her Master in Education, she became passionate about enhancing a holistic development of young minds, bodies and souls. She currently works at The Essington School Darwin and manages a business as well.
Basu Dev Marahatta Basu is a radio journalist with a decade long experiences back in his country, Nepal. He is still continuing his journalism profession by being a freelancer producer for Nepalese program on SBS Radio and is also the program coordinator of the first Nepalese Online Radio of Australia, ‘ Hamro Internet Radio’.
Renu Sharma has lived in Darwin for twenty three years. She is passionate about the environment, social justice and animal welfare. She currently works at the Department of Local Government and Community Services.
Dr. Dinoop Narayanan B.A.M.S., Graduating in Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery from Kerala’s renowned Trivandrum Govt. Ayurveda College, Dr. Narayanan gained experience training with guidance from famous Ayurvedic practitioners where he developed skills in yoga, naturopathy, panchakarma and massage. He has successfully treated various disease states including arthritis, low back ache, hemiplegic and paraplegic conditions.
www.namasteynt.com.au
Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
5 Visa on Arrival
From the Editor Dear Readers, Happy New Year 2015! In Australia, Christmas and New Year is the time we enjoy the most. I am sure most of you must have taken a holiday and used the opportunity to relax and spend time with family and friends. Looking back, I feel 2014 went so fast. With a busy day-to-day life, it is hard to keep track of time. Also, social media has made our lives a bit more colourful. Ever since technology has made our lives connected to the world all the time, we are much busier - reading and responding to messages on Facebook, E-mails, Twitter, WhatsApp and a countless number of other similar services. Sometimes it feels like holding an invitation to a party, anytime, anywhere. We can just join in whatever one we want to, whenever we want to. But this invitation raises some concerns as well. For instance, in many places, people experience internet traffic jams in the early hours of the evening when their children are back home from school. These kids are on their devices chatting with friends, playing games or watching some videos. They could have been playing with friends, doing some homework or reading a book. Over exposure to social media could become an addiction that can affect their interest in studies and other activities. Also for adults, gone are the days when people get together to sit and talk. Now even in parties after the initial exchange of niceties, people tend to be busy on their own gadgets rather than talking to the person sitting next to them. Our dependency to the electronic gadgets is yet another issue. As we progress as a society, our natural abilities like sense of direction and observation are being used less and less. Perhaps after a few more years, there is a possibility that people need to be trained to talk to each other. In 2015, I wish we can steal some time from these school kids and encourage them to keep some of the old habits such as reading a book. Apart from being a season to celebrate, New Year is also the time we take new resolutions. Whether it is to eat healthy, exercise, change job, study better, or something very simple as keeping a separate recycling bin and dispose them responsibly, they are all signs of a positive direction. In this issue we are happy to share an article on recycling at home. Climate change was a very important topic of discussion in last year’s G-20 meeting. It should be a thought for everyone to do their bit also at their homes. Australia being a rich country and the cost to repair something, is very high, many household items are thrown away and get replaced with new ones. There could be many hose hold items that could be useful for someone else or even for you lying around the house. Please use some of the holiday time to go through the items around the house and make a wise choice based on three points- reduce, reuse and recycle. Protection of our environment for our young is everyone’s duty. If we leave everything for the government and environmental organisations alone to care for, it may be late. So let’s try and make an effort in our own ingenuous ways. Finally we hope 2015 will bring a lot of progress and development in our lives. Also let’s remember the two unfortunate people who died in the horrific Sydney Siege and those innocent children and adults who died in Peshawar. Let their souls rest in peace. Let our energies not be dampened by the negative events that we hear about or go through. Wish you all a wonderful new year ahead. Until next time, Namastey! Neethi Ashok
Good news for tourists and natives who are planning to visit India. Visa on Arrival As you are aware, the TVOA-ETA (Tourist Visa on Arrival - enabled with Electronic Travel Authorisation) scheme has been launched by the Government of India on 27 November 2014 for 43 countries, including Australia. A dedicated website (https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa. html) has been launched for this purpose. The citizens of these 43 countries can apply online for tourist visas (twice a year, each visit not exceeding 30 days, visa duration non-extendable except in the event of medical emergencies) which shall be granted within 72 hours through email. The purpose of the visit could range from tourism, casual business visit, short term medical treatment, to meet friends and relatives. The applicant is expected to take a printout of the email and can travel to India through 9 designated international airports (Bangalore, Chennai, Kochin, Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram). It may be noted that the TVOA-ETA scheme entails capture of biometric data of the visitor on arrival at the airport. A copy of the TVOA-ETA brochure is attached for reference. However, the website could be accessed for further details. We are in the process of uploading FAQs to the TVOA-ETA portal for the guidance of applicants. The portal also provides a helpline number (+9111-24300666) and an email address (indiatvoa@gov.in) for applicants to approach for addressing their difficulties in connection with applying for ETA. (This message is from Consulate General of India)
www.namasteynt.com.au Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
6 Main Feature
By Dr. Dinoop Narayanan
Patient examination in Ayurveda
Time-tested Solutions Ayurveda does not differentiate between an age-old disease such as fever or a new one such as AIDS. It has an elaborate system of examination and diagnosis before which it prescribes a treatment. The Dasavidha pariksha, or the ten-fold examination, helped the physician arrive at the right conclusion then. And now Ayurveda has been in practice for more than 4000 years, taking care of people’s health. It is still a vibrant branch of medical science, is part of the human fight against diseases, helps men and women keep healthy. At times it comes up with solutions to problems for which modern science has very little to offer. All in a natural way. It has enjoyed a flawless continuity of legacy. How does Ayurveda, which had its origins when there was little opportunity for chemical examinations and colleting empirical evidence, has been successful in keeping up its legacy? How is it that its remedies work regardless of age, time, region and sex? It is told that a pupil once asked Acharya Charaka: “You have taught us all about diseases, their origins, their cures, specifications about
medicine etc. But what if we meet a new disease, which you have not described yet? What should we do then?” To this Charaka is said to have answered as follows: “All diseases change. Some disappear, other appears in new forms and new diseases arise. We cannot learn all about the disappeared, existing and newly pearing diseases. Therefore you should learn ten principles of examination of diseases, which you should apply always in diagnosing diseases. Each time, if you do so carefully, you will find cause, nature and treatment of the diseases.” Ayurveda physicians till today follow those ten principles of examination (dasa vidha pariksha) which help them keep the flag of Ayurveda afloat in a changing world. The ten principles underline the fact that the appearance of diseases always changes with time, nutritional habits, climate, society, way of life etc, and hence it is impossible to foresee all future diseases. Today, new diseases such as AIDS break out and new forms of cancers
are diagnosed. While it could put any physician, especially those who follow modern branches, in a spot, a learned Ayurevda physician would not waver as he always has a comprehensive tool to understand the disease. All that he needs to do is to strictly follow the golden principles of diagnosis Acharyas had prescribed. As Ayurveda focuses beyond the symptoms and seeks to unravel their reasons, instead of finding methods to suppress them, every physician conduct these examination, if he were to be successful. This examination is divided into three stages where every possible causative aspect of the ailment is examined. The three stages are as follows: Observation (Darsanam): This is the first stage. Here, various factors like appearance, body build, age and other physical characteristics of the patient is thoroughly examined. Physical checking (Sparsanam): In this stage, the body is examined physically by checking the pulse, palpation, (a method of examination in which the examiner
www.namasteynt.com.au
Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
7
feels the size or shape or firmness or location of something) percussion (tapping a part of the body for diagnostic purposes) and auscultation (listening to sounds within the body) are some different ‘sparsanam’ techniques. Interrogation (Prasnam): In this stage the patient is asked about his ailments and the symptoms that he is observing on a daily basis. It helps synchronize the observation of the doctor with the feelings of the patient. The three steps are further elaborated in two ways - Dasavidha Pareeksha (tenfold examination) and Ashtasthana Pareeksha (eightfold examination). The 10 point examination (Dasa vidha pariksha) It is important that the practitioner gain a thorough knowledge of the patient’s state prior to treatment through an analysis of the following ten components: Body Constitution (prakruti): Prakriti refers to the physical condition of a human being. It is the sum total of the state of tridoshas and trigunas. Identifying the states in each place forms the first step in assessing the physical and mental state of a person.
Ayurevda says one of the thridoshas is predominant in each human being, and classifies people accordingly. In some people, it could be a mixture of more than one. Determined by relative predominance of doshas during foetal development, the prakriti can be vatika, paithika, kaphaja, vata paittika, vata kaphaja, pitta kaphaja or samdoshaja. Pathological State (vikruti): Vikruti is the vitiation of prakruti. Diseases caused due to vikruti are easier to treat than diseases caused due to prakruti itself. The state of vikruti is identified by closely examining the dhatus, malas, and the emotional control of the person. Related to the biological history of the diseases in its entirety, it enables physicians to consider the signs and symptoms of the disease in order to assess the strength of the disease, the causes, the doshas, the affected body elements, body constitution, time and strength of an individual. Tissue Vitality (sara): Broadly speaking, there are seven vital tissues, namely lymph (rasa), blood
(rakta), muscle (mamsa), adipose (meda), bone (asthi), bone marrow (majja) and reproductive tissue (sukra). Lymph in the skin is assessed by its smoothness, softness, clearness, thinness and whether the skin is covered with short, deep rooted and delicate hair. Percentage of blood in body is evaluated from the condition of the eyes, mouth, tongue, lips, nails and soles of the feet. When muscles are in perfect condition, the temples, forehead, nape of the neck, shoulders, belly, arms, chest, joints of the body, jaws and cheeks are covered firmly with the skin. People with healthy adipose tissue have oily skin and healthy hair, nails, voice and teeth. The health of bones is determined by pliable but firm forearms, chin, nails, teeth, ankles, knees and other joints of the body. Healthy bone marrow leads to good complexion and stout, long, round and stable joints. People with perfectly healthy reproductive system are strong and cheerful. The condition of dhatus are classified into three: good (pravara), medium (madhya) and poor (avara). Pravara suggests excellent immune system and condition. It
www.namasteynt.com.au Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
8 also helps the predominance of the trigunas in the patient: a person is said to belong to the satwa group with if he has high emotional stability, clarity of thoughts, calmness, optimism etc. The lower levels will qualify him to be included in the rajas and tamas of trigunas, the three qualities of mind. Physical build (samhanana): Body examination is carried out by direct perception – a healthy body being well- built with symmetrical bones, strong and stable joints and enough flesh and blood. Being very thin or obese is considered illhealthy. Body Measurement (pramana): Pramana or examining body proportion involves assessing the relationship between the lengths of spread arms and the height of the person. An almost same length is a healthy sign. There are also several other measurements that tell the physician about a well proportioned body. Any person in close proximity to the ideal measurements is termed as normal and healthy. Adaptibility (satmya): Satmya is a process of measuring the capabilities of the person to physically or mentally adapt to changing conditions. It is a complex process, measuring the mental and physical reaction of the person to demanding conditions. His/ her psychological, neurological, immunological conditions are checked. Indicating substances intrinsic to the body, satmya refers to two types of people: those that are strong, can adjust easily to difficulties and have excellent digestive capacity and those that are generally weak, intolerant to change and can have only few food options. This is an examination tool unique to Ayurveda. Psychic Constitution (satwa): Satwa refers to the mind which controls the body in contact with
the soul (atma). It is the capability of the person to continue doing what is required of him without giving heed to distractions—both physical and mental. A person can be judged to be of high, moderate or low mental strength. Digestive Capacity (ahara sakti): This has to be judged from the individual’s capacity to take, digest and absorb food to the body. It also indicates the metabolic capacity of the person. Capacity for Exercise (vyayama shakti): It indicates a person’s ability to stand physical exertion, and do hard work. Appropriate secretion of metabolic or endocrine products during physical exercise is essential for good endurance in demanding situations. It is can be low, moderate or high. Age (vaya): The age of a person provides vital clues for the diagnosis and treatment. The physician compares the actual age of the person with his or her apparent age. If a person appears younger than he or she really, then it is a sign of health. It is broadly categorised into childhood, middle age and old age. Along with the dasavidha pariksha, Ayurveda suggests an eight point examination (Ashtasthana Pariksha) to help the physician make the right diagnosis, especially the doshik imbalance. The following examinatiosn are part of it: pulse (Nadi), tongue (jihwa), stool (malam), urine (mootram), voice and speech (Sabdam), body temperature, skin and tactile sense (sparsanam), eye balls and vision (drik) and the physique (akriti). Pulse (nadi): It provides deep insights into the history of the patient. It gives the physician an idea about body nature, pathological state and imbalances of the tridhosha.
Tongue (jihva): By examining the tongue, a physician can assess the doshic state: a Vata-aggravated tongue is dry, rough and cracked, Pitha-aggravted tongue is red with a burning sensation and Kaphaaggravated one is wet, slimy and coated. It also gives an idea about the digestive system. Voice (sabda): The voice is natural and clear when a person is healthy with the doshas in balance. It vecomes heavy when Kapha is aggravated, cracked under Pitha is aggravated and hoarse and rough when afflicted by Vata. Skin (sparsha): Skin gives away the tridosha state in a person’s body. It becomes coarse and rough with below normal temperature (Vata), high temperature (Pitha) and cold and wet (Kapha). Eyes (drik): A person with Vata domination has his eyes sunken, dry and reddish brown in colour. When Pitha is aggravated, they turn red or yellow and the patient suffers from photophobia and burning sensations. Vitiated Kapha makes them wet and watery with heaviness in the eyelids. General appearance (akriti): A trained physician can judge the doshic influences from examining the face of the patient. Urine (mutra): Examination of the urine helps identify the doshik imbalance in a body. Stool (mala): When Vata is aggravated, the stool becomes hard, dry and grey/ash in colour. Excess Pitta makes it green/ yellow and liquid in form whereas high Kapha lines it with mucus.
www.namasteynt.com.au
Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
By Renu Sharma
Environment and Recycling
My efforts have not been in vain though as they have led to changes in my lifestyle, hobbies and worldview. I am going to share some of these with you. For the purpose of this article the environment means everything that surrounds us and affects life on earth. Some examples include air, water, climate, animals, birds, trees, nature and other human beings. The earth has limited resources to be shared by all living beings. With progress, modernisation, growth, better health care and awareness the human population is increasing, people are living longer and consuming more resources than ever. This has had a negative impact on the environment. Scientists across the world are gravely concerned about the release of large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Our activities are largely responsible for these changes which are causing increasingly dangerous weather, heat waves, droughts, wildfires and floods. Environment & Recycling One often comes across terms such as environment, pollution, sustainability and biodiversity in the media, policy documents and political rhetoric these days. A few years ago I decided to find out more
about what these terms really mean and how they apply to my context. Little did I realise that one can soon be lost in the abundance of information that is available at our fingertips these days.
Two things that I have successfully implemented include minimising kitchen waste and recycling fabric. Both have been achieved with much support from my family. My sons bought a compost bin for me which has been great. All kitchen scraps, grass clippings and small
9
www.namasteynt.com.au Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
10
branches have been deposited in it which has reduced our garbage to one fourth of what it was five years ago. The compost has been used to nourish the spinach, bananas, capsicums, ginger, chillies, lemons and numerous flowering plants. I rarely buy potting mix or manure and we enjoy the organic produce from our garden. It also saves a few dollars when you harvest fresh ginger from the garden instead of buying it for around twenty dollars per kilo. A few years ago I noticed that charity shops were refusing to take certain items of clothing. They attributed this to receiving too many donations. Most people these days buy more than they need or use
because there are so many specials at the shops and retail therapy seems rewarding. This prompted me to explore alternatives. I have now discovered a fantastic way to reuse old sheets, towels, saris and other materials. This is my contribution to care for my planet. Sir Paul McCartney says it very well, “Out of all those millions and millions of planets floating around there in space, this is our planet, this is our little one, so we just got to be aware of it and take care of it.” Here are a few examples of my recent efforts at recycling. Most of the bags I have made have been appropriated by my niece and
sisters but I will keep making more. You might be interested in looking the links below to find out more about the environment and sustainable living. NASA: Global climate change. Vital signs of the planet Plastic pollution in the world’s oceans http://ecoadmirer.com/6-reasonsyou-should-care-about-ourenvironment/ http://wwf.panda.org/who_ we_are/wwf_offices/australia/ environmental_problems_in_ australia/
www.namasteynt.com.au
Issue 03 | January 2015
Migrant Stories
PAGE
By Basu Dev Marahatta
True Darwinian Darwinian of the Month
Darwinian of the Month- Mr.Dhan Kuma Malla Every month we share the stories of local heroes in Darwin. This time we like to introduce a young international student in Darwin who is also an active member of the Nepalese community. Mr.Dhan Kumar Malla, a Nepalese international student of Charles Darwin University was awarded the prestigious, “Chief Minister’s NT Export and Industry Award, 2014”. The Award is given for the Student of the Year category at the NT export and Industry awards, recently conducted by the international business council of the chamber and commerce.
This award is a tribute for his hard work and dedication to his study, which recognises outstanding achievements as a student studying international business subjects in the northern Territory. After completing Diploma of information technology and Bachelor of information System from Sydney, Mr.Malla has completed Masters in Business Administration (Professional Practice) this year from Charles Darwin University, with the specialization in Enterprise and International Studies. Mr.Malla was born in a remote part of Nepal, Gaikhur, Gorkha. His journey from Gaikhur to Sydney was not easy. He says, “I
was loosing myself in the crowd of Sydney”. After few years he decided to move for his post Graduate study and came to Darwin. Now, he is a well-known name among Nepalese Community, Darwin. Apart from his study, he has been involved with various community organisations, where he uses his academic and professional skills to yield good outcome for them. He is a Student Coordinator of Nepalese Association of Northern territory. Currently, he is appointed as a young IT and branch Executive Member of Australian Computer Society, Northern territory. He feels Proud to call him as a CDU Student
11
www.namasteynt.com.au Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
12 4. Are there any unique factors in Darwin that contributed to your success? Darwin itself is unique place in Australia and the major factors that contributed in my success are family, friends, community and my university professors. Since it is a small place, less populated, full of opportunity and very multicultural, I liked this place in the very first glance. I found a very caring and homely environment at the University where faculty staff and university people are exceptionally supportive. I am grateful to all my CUD Teachers/ Professors and the University staff.
and a Territorian. Below are the excerpts from the interview with him. 1. When did you arrive in Australia and how had been your journey so far? I arrived in Sydney in 2007. Early years of my student life was not at all easy, almost a rocky road for me. I was experiencing cultural shock being in new place and new environment and certainly struggled to keep balance between my study and social life. 2. How much you think your upbringing Childhood, cultural elements helped in your success here? I grew up in a society where we used to look after each other caring and sharing. Even though I was born in remote Part of Nepal, my parent’s first priority was education. Because of my parent’s job, I travelled to many places inside and outside the country in my childhood. That
impacted in my study as well, changed many schools, made many new friends with having new ideas and cultural background which challenged my studies and achievements too. But it also helped me socially. I got very good environment for my studies, which motivated me to do hard work and show dedication in whatever I do. 3. What was your dream as a child? From the day, I am aware I had a sense, I didn’t have any big dream; I just wanted to live a simple and happy life. I feel happy helping others. Information Technology was my passion since childhood, hence I did web designing, Computer Hardware training and was studying Bachelor in IT before came to Australia. I never had a plan to go abroad for study, I wanted to start my own business in Nepal and I have a keen interest to serve the community.
5. IT is an ever-changing world. What do you see in 5-10 years time? IT is changing every day; we can hear at least one new development every new day. IT is used in every area and industry, small or large. It has no horizon to fix the line; it’s beyond our imagination. 3D Printers, sensor networks, virtual humans and other technologies that are under development now will drastically change our world in next five years. 6.As an international student, when you are in Australia you may have to integrate with Local students in CDU. How did you go about it? I joined Charles Darwin University in July 2012 for my Master of Business Administration (Professional Practice) (MBAPP) in Darwin Northern Territory. During first semester 2012, I was feeling lonely and difficult to adjust with new environment. Then gradually by getting to know everybody, I found a very supportive and friendly environment at the University. I am grateful to all the people at the university. 7. You have any message for youngsters who wish to be in IT field? IT industries have very competitive market. There are many areas inside the IT field, it does always be useful
www.namasteynt.com.au
Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
13
to be specialised in any specific areas. Being a student I would like to suggest my new friends to attend all the formals and informal networking opportunities to forge new connections, create business opportunities or meet your next employer. 7. We noticed that you are actively involved in NANT, can you please give an overview of the society and their programs? How can people be a member of that? I have been involved in NANT since 2013. I saw it was purely dedicated towards the community. NANT is established in 2007 to promote goodwill and co-operation amongst Nepalese people residing in Australia, in general and in the Northern Territory. It is maintain and promoting Nepalese culture and tradition in Australia. It is promoting friendship within Australian communities at large and exchange cultural practices and values. Some of the major programs that NANT conducting are:
1. Various functions for special occasions according to Nepalese calendar. 2. Language and cultural class for the Kids to preserve Nepalese culture. 3. Various sporting events and socialising. 4. Cultural events. Any interested people can be a member of Nepal Association of Northern Territory simply by going to NANT official website www. nant.org.au and send request for the membership filling their current details along with a membership fee of $10 for full membership and $5 for the student each year. There is bank details provided for the membership fee deposited in Bank account. After filling and submitting the form, the person will be notified by sending an email “Your membership form is received� 9. What have you witnessed in Darwin population and how do you see in Darwin in 5 years time? Darwin is multiethnic place with
wet and dry season. Many tourists visit NT in dry season and leave in wet season. The dry season runs from about May to September, during which nearly every day is warm and sunny, and humid afternoon. Darwin in gradually developing comparing to other city in Australia, I believe there will be lot more opportunities opening in future. It was a pleasant experience to catch up with Dhan and share his story with the readers. We hope Darwin will provide much more opportunities for youngsters moving in to the Territory.
www.namasteynt.com.au
Issue 03 | January 2015
Special Story
PAGE
By Rachita Jain
Let’s Make School
Holidays Fun! Can you believe that it is half way through the school holidays! The first half goes quick with Christmas and New Year’s Celebrations. By January, parents and children start to run out of ideas to make their break a valuable and memorable one. I have collated this list that might come in handy in such times.
ACTIVITY
PARENT
CHILDREN
Cultural Awareness: Each one of us carries a rich treasure of traditions and memories that can come to life these holidays. It could be as simple as a morning prayer or as intense as Bharatnatyam dance moves.
Have you ever heard of a song that makes you nostalgic? Perhaps it is your national anthem. How about sharing this love with your children? Introduce them to the music that touches your heart.
This is the time to put your curiosities to rest. Whether your interest resides in architecture, arts, science or technology; you can carry out research on how these areas are approached in your target culture and start jotting down your thoughts in an Ideas Journal.
Create: “Creating means living.” ― Dejan Stojanovic, The Shape
There is beauty in creating. Create art or a technology to use at home, create a poem or a song with your child.
Let us create new friendships and new memories this year. Let us create a beautiful painting to enhance the beauty of the place we call home. The beauty of creating in your own time is that there is nothing limiting your imagination, no deadlines, no specific materials. It is just you and your mind, go wild!
Create a new routine for holidays incorporating varied activities.
15
www.namasteynt.com.au
Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
17 ACTIVITY
PARENT
CHILDREN
Give: Let the joy of giving continue on from Christmas.
Give away old belongings that you have not used for more than a year. You can also make regular donations of household items to red cross and salvation army that have bins in various public locations.
The biggest contribution you can make is you time. Give it to a charity. Look after a neighbour’s pet while they are away. Their gratitude in return will fill you with a sense of self-esteem. Now that is an invaluable remuneration!
Go shopping in your cupboards: This is my personal favourite!
How often do we stand in front of an aisle in the shops and wondered if we already have that food hidden somewhere in our pantry? Get your kids involved in checking out that linen cupboard, toy cupboard or your pantry and you may surprise yourself with all the stuff you never knew you had!
Let’s face it- cleaning is a boring job! Why not make it interesting this year? Set the music and time yourself for five of your favourite songs while you go through one drawer. Pick one thing at a time and ask yourself: Do I use it? Do I love it? If both answers are no, put it in the giveaway box so it can find a new home. You may also come across things that will find peace in the bin.
Grow: We all grow every day, every moment. There is great satisfaction is watching things grow whether it is plants, pets or children.
With the wet season in its full swing, anything grows at this time of the year. Home grown veggies stay fresh longer and are the best way to ensure that you are not consuming chemicals in your food.
Fresh flowers are a great thing to grow these holidays. They look great, smell lovely and will help our bees too! The joy and peace found in your garden or balcony is immense.
Visit places: “Oh the places you’ ll go, Today is your day, Your mountains are waiting, So get on your way!”- Dr. Seuss
With so many new restaurants and cafes opening up in Darwin city and surrounds, we are getting spoilt for choice. Try out a new place while you catch up with friends old and new.
NT’s natural beauty is enhanced with the rains and January is a good time to enjoy the bright hues. Whether it is a trip to Botanic Gardens, Charles Darwin National Park or a picnic at Lake Alexander, you are sure to be mesmerised by the beauty of it all.
Watch: Watch the clouds float by; watch the rain, watch flowers bloom, there is so much to see. Bird watching is an activity loved by the old and young alike.
Watch a sunrise or a sunset with your family (I like to do this with my dog!)
Watch those movies that you have always wanted to. Borrow a classic from the public libraries and transcend into a new world.
www.namasteynt.com.au Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
18
ACTIVITY
PARENT
CHILDREN
Cook: Every holidays, I make a wish list of foods I have eaten that year and try cooking them at home. Sometimes the results do not even impress my dog, other times I find myself cooking them again on request of family and friends.
We eat lunch out of a box most of our childhood. Holidays give us an opportunity to involve the whole family in the process of cooking. My pre-schoolers help me chop mushrooms, mix flour, roll out dough and make smoothies. As a mum, there is nothing that satisfies me more than knowing that my kids have had a balanced nutritious meal.
I like the series ‘4 ingredients’ created by two Australian mums that cook anything and everything using just 4 ingredients. Their books are easy available for hire and purchase and simple to follow. It is nice way to surprise your parents/ guardians who usually cook for you!
Read: There is comfort in slipping into a favourite old novel and there is novelty in reading new books.
Whether it is reading ‘Surviving adolescents’ out of desperation or ‘mind food’ magazine out of boredom, make time for reading. It is sure to inspire you!
Reading autobiographies gives us a chance to learn from other people’s experiences. If you are running out of ideas, ask your grandparents for their role model, read about the person and share your thoughts with your grandparents. Your grandparents have an ocean of wisdom, waiting for you to dive in!
Also, the following organisations run free of cost holiday programs for all ages: • Darwin City Libraries • City Council’s Fun in the parks (held in various community centres every week) • Darwin Waterfront George Brown Botanical Gardens • YMCA (Leanyer and Palmerston Recreation Parks) Keep Smiling and Have Fun!
www.namasteynt.com.au
Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
By Ritika Singhal
My “Easy Designing & Decorating Ideas for New Home Owners in Darwin”
Top-End continues to impress new and existing home owners by fulfilling their dream of having their own home or an investment property. So here are some simple, easy, economical, inspiring and innovative ideas and tips to design and decorate your dream-house: • Love the natural sunlight- Nothing can beat a welllit and a naturally illuminated room, sunlight will not only provide an energy efficient and a more sustainable home but it will also help in making your home less gloomy and claustrophobic. It is a safe, healthier and an economical resource. Sometimes, it is not possible to get sun’s natural rays in each and every room but that does not mean one has to suffer from lack of sunshine, a few simple techniques such as using artificial light fittings, spotlights, tall lamps, placing a large wall mirror, false windows and clever decoration ideas can avoid some of the disappointment. • Furniture placement makes a difference- A well-arranged furniture especially in the common living area can change the entire ambience of your home. The furniture should be placed in a way that it makes the room spacious, lively and playful. It is always a good idea to choose large coffee tables and rugs as they give an artistic taste to the room. Placing couches at an angle and slightly away from the walls will lead to a cohesive look. • Choose a masterpiece- It is always wise to have one extraordinary and a spectacular masterpiece as a part of home décor to give that extra boost to the overall
environment. Don’t worry, I am not asking you to buy masterpieces by Pablo Picasso or Leonardo Da Vinci, a masterpiece can be a wall full of family photos, a decorative wall piece, an antique timepiece, souvenirs, dancing figures, statues, a display shelf, chandeliers, mirrors, wood-pieces, and the likewise. • Bring in flower power- Decorate your home with beautiful plants and flowers to add style and colour. They also offer warmth, calmness, peace and prosperity. Flowers are best suited for the areas like hallway, living room or dining room where everyone can see them. Flowers are always welcoming and they create a positive and a healthy habitat. • Do not clutter and stay organised- Never rush to buy all at once, try to spend few weeks in your new home and then hunt for the items that are actually required. An overly decorated home can look disarrayed and neglected. It is always favourable to shop with a close friend or a family member to get fresh ideas, thoughts and suggestions. • Where to go- Northern Territory offers a wide range of retailers and facilities to shop for household items that cater to the needs of all kind of budgets and aspirations. A few popular places to hunt are Jape Homemaker Village, Casuarina Shopping Centre, Harvey Norman, The Good luck Shop, Mindil Markets, Teak N Cane, Wood & Wicker, Shine Gifts, Storm Bird Gallery, Smith Street Mall and many more.
19
www.namasteynt.com.au Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
20
By Amisha Desai
My First Few Days In Australia fees. I requested the employee at the Visa Head office to provide me with the contact number of anyone else they had sent to Melbourne on a Student Visa. He obliged and gave me an Indian student’s number. Once I arrived in Melbourne airport I was clueless as to what I should do after I had finished checking out of customs.
I arrived in Australia on the 6th of August 2006, to pursue my Master’s degree in Accounting. I didn’t know anyone in Australia at that point in time. My Flight arrived at 10:00 pm in Melbourne airport, I cleared customs and immigration procedures at 10:30 pm. I had taken admission in the University of Ballarat. Before my arrival in Australia, the Indian immigration agent helped me obtain an Australian Student Visa and promised my father to arrange accommodation and airport pick for me. During the application process for my student visa, my Visa agent had advised me to apply for an E-Visa, as it was faster to get when compared to paper Visa. Unfortunately everything didn’t go so smoothly.We travelled from Baroda( a city in the western state of India called Gujarat) to Delhi via air to collect the Student Visa from the agency’s head office, but when we got there we were informed that the Visa was not ready for us to pick up. My brother in law and I, were very frustrated and angry as we’d travelled a long way to collect my Student Visa. My brother in law was quick to show his disappointment and started arguing with the employees at the visa agency to get the Student Visa ready within half an hour as I had to catch my flight from Delhi to Melbourne at 12:00 am midnight. Worried that the Student Visa was not ready, I also enquired about whether the accommodation, airport pick up and general explanation about my trip from Delhi to Australia that my Visa agent in Baroda had promised my father. We were shocked when my Visa agent said nothing about such arrangements to his colleagues in the head office. Hearing this I broke down and worried about what I was going to do once I reached Melbourne. The visa agency had managed to prepare the Student Visa in the nick of time, I shook off my worries and caught my flight to Melbourne from Delhi as my father had spent thousands of rupees for my Student Visa and my University
Then I spotted an Indian couple at the airport exit and hoped they would be able to provide some help and approached them, they were very kind and helpful so I explained my situation. They were surprised when I had finished my explanation and asked whether I wanted to call my parents to explain my predicament. I humbly refused as I didn’t want to cause any worry to my parents and even if I did call them, my parents wouldn’t have been able to provide any help beside emotional support. That’s when it struck me that I still had the Melbourne student’s number that I got from the Visa head agency. I requested the couple to allow me to contact the student to see if he could help me. The student picked up the call, I introduced myself and gave him a quick run through of my current situation. Once I was done he said that he lived quite far from Melbourne airport and that he was working at the moment, but he’d try his best to provide help as soon as possible. I returned the mobile to the couple and thanked them for all their help. I decided if the student was able to help me out I’d go with him, otherwise I’d wait at the airport till next morning to catch a train or take a cab to go to my University Campus. Thankfully the student showed up with his friend and found me waiting outside the airport. I traveled with him to his house, he was a complete stranger to me but I prayed to God that everything went well and I’d be able to get to my campus safely. The very next day he was nice enough to drop me off at the Melbourne train station and arranged a temporary accommodation at a female friend’s place for me until my long train ride to the area my University was located in. When I arrived at my destination; the University of Ballarat I had to enroll into my Master’s program 2 weeks late, I had no proper idea about the facilities that were available to me but I managed to somehow begin my course. I was not guided properly by my Visa agent, he was simply interested in money rather than providing good service. He fooled me and he got what he wanted; Money, but I managed to find accommodation with a group of students like myself who were very helpful and kind. My trip from Delhi to Melbourne was one hell of a ride but I was finally at ease after I got used to my new daily routine at University. My trip which started in a negative note ended thankfully in a positive note.
www.namasteynt.com.au
Issue 03 | January 2015
Community News
MCNT MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS MCNT Membership Renewals and Those who wish to renew their MCNT membership, please contact Savita at admin@mcnt.org.au Please note membership fees for 201415 only: Organisations $5; Individuals $1. VOLUNTEER TUTORS NEEDED FOR HOMEWORK CLUB The homework club runs on Wednesday and Thursday 4-6pm during school terms in 2015. The program is fun and a rewarding way to volunteer your time to gain valuable cross cultural experience as well as assisting disadvantaged young people with their schooling. Anyone who loves to work with young people are welcome to join. No experience needed. For more information contact Mary Kukua 89459122 or 0469802832 or spg@mcnt.org.au MALAK ONLINE TV Darwin Community Arts is producing informative online video program and are looking for the Volunteers for Malak Online TV multilingual program presenters for their first Episode of Malak Online TV which will be uploaded on www.malak.org.au from January 2015. If you are a performing artist, singer or dancer of the community and want to showcase your talent then send your expression of interest ASAP on http://www.malak. org.au/malakonlinetv/. For Further information contact Oli Dubsky on 89457347 and Nitesh raj Pant on niteshrajpant@gmail.com. PARENT SUPPORT GROUP A relaxed monthly group for parents from diverse background meet every 4 weeks at MCNT Community Room Malak. Share stories, hear speakers, strengthen your craft, sporting skills and go on outing. Transport available to families who don’t have their on. Interpreters can be booked in your language. For further information contact Lynne Fisher 89459122, Rebecca Lowe 89234999 or Gail Price 9853311
PAGE
21
PASSPORT TO DRIVE PROGRAM 2014 Passport to Drive Program opened on 1 July 2014 for permanent residents who arrived in Australia within last five years under Humanitarian entrants; Family stream migrants with Low English proficiency; dependants skilled migrants in rural and regional area; selected temporary residents (prospective marriage, provisional spouse, and provisional interdependency visa holders and their dependants) in rural and regional areas and who have low proficiency. The project period is from 1 July to 28 February, 2015. For further information contact Nitesh @8945 9122 or driving@mcnt.org.au
MCNT HOMEWORK CLUB The homework club will runs on Wednesday and Thursday 4.00 to 6.00pm during the school term in 2015. to provide young people (middle and high school age, from newly arrived refugee and non-English speaking backgrounds) with assistance with their homework and school studies. For further information Contact Mary Kukua 89459122 or 0469802832 or sgp@mcnt.org.au MCNT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE 2014/2015 MCNT had a successful AGM on 28 November, 2014. The Following Board members were elected: President-Madhu Dasgupta, Vice President- Harry Spirou Secretary-Yogan Sathianathan Treasurer-Alpha Capaque Committee MembersAsma Rehman Khan Committee MembersKevin Kadirgamar Committee MembersGanesh Adhikari Committee Members Navneel Arya For Further Information Please Contact MCNT 89459122
MCNT FREE MIGRANT ADVICE SERVICE Monthly Consultations upon appointment is available for the first Wednesday of each month with qualified Migration Agents. Venue: MCNT Hall, shop 15 Malak Shopping Centre. Time: 5—8pm Next appointment: 7 January 2015 For further Information Please contact MCNT on 898459122 KITCHEN TABLE CONVERSATIONS ON VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND THEIR CHILDREN The Australian Government wants to engage closely with culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities about how we can work together to reduce violence against women and their children. Kitchen table conversations are an opportunity to ensure the voices of CALD women are heard on issues of domestic and family violence. The MCNT in partnership with the Top End Women Legal Services and the Department of Social Services would like to invite women from the CALD community to a Kitchen Table Conversation session as follows: Venue: Shop 15 Multicultural Council NT, Malak Date : Thursday 5 February 2015 Time : 1.30pm to 3.30 pm INDONESIAN CLASSES Selamat. Want to travel to Bali for weekend? How about trying to learn some basic words of the language to try to break the ice. The Consulate of the Republic of Indonesia are offering free language classes at Indonesian Consulate. For more information contact Jherry/Hesti on 89430208 or matahelumual@indoconsdarwin. org.au. Website www.kemlu.go.id/ darwin. Facebook www.facebook. com/konsulatrint
www.namasteynt.com.au Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
22
ENGLISH CLASSES English for everyday living are held each Monday 9am to 12pm at the meeting room Casuarina Library by the Happy Migrant learning Centre. Sessions are open from beginners to advanced levels. All are welcome. For further information contact Cecilia (Co-ordinator) 89273108 HINDI CLASSES Free Hindi language classes are scheduled each Saturday to commence from 2-3 pm at Alawa primarySchool during School Terms only (entrance from Pett St. Alawa) room 4. For more information contact Sumesh Dhir 0414663075 URDU CLASSES Free Urdu language classes are scheduled each Sunday to commence from 11 am to 1 pm at Alawa primary School During School terms only(entrance from Pett St. Alawa) room 3. For more information contact Farah Sattar 0432240362 BOLLYWOOD DANCE ACADMEY Bollywood Dance Academy motto is anybody can dance and provides free dance classes each Saturday at MCNT community Room Malak. For more information contact 0450990710 or Bollywood. bda@gmail.com or facebook. com/b.d.a.darwin MY SISTERS’KITCHEN (Darwin Community Arts Project) MSK is a weekly program held each Monday at Chambers Crescent Theatre in Malak Shopping Centre from 4.30-6.30pm. Women and children from all walks of life come together to share cooking skills and some great stories about their experience. 2014 also brought added skills like sewing, screen printing, painting and new recipes to cook and learn. Transport is available. For more information contact Meri on 8945 7347 or msk@darwincommunityarts.org.au.
TELECENTRO (Darwin Community Arts Project) Telecentro is a free community computer lab with broadband Internet access and technical support. Facility has 12+ computers for social and job networking with word processing, web browsing and online service to ATO, Department of Human Services, Department of Immigration, VEVO, etc. All welcome, however clients like SGP and related migrant communities are priority target groups. Open between 2-4pm each weekday at Chamber Crescent Community Arts Malak. Contact Jim McDougall at 89457347 for more info. SKILLED MIGRATION OR 457 VISA HOLDERS The MCNT provides general information assistance for skilled migration and 457 visa holders. Workshops focusing on employment, financial management and other forms of assistance aimed at benefitting these Visa holders and other community members. Contact Ron Mitchell for more information at 89459122 or ron.mitchell@mcnt.org.au INDONESIAN STORYTIME Enjoy a bilingual Storytime session each month for Indonesian and non Indonesian speaking families. This fun multicultural activity for you and your child– suitable for 0-5 years is fun way to get know to your neighbouring people. Sessions are held at 10am on last Friday each Month at Darwin City Library. For more information contact Frances Brougham on 89305235
MCNT FACEBOOK Please visit the MCNT Facebook page with the link below and click Like. This will enable regular MCNT notices to appear on your own Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/pages/ Multicultural-Council-of-The_ NT/215652268552142 MALAK ONLINE TV Darwin Community Arts is producing informative online video program and looking for the volunteers for Malak Online TV Munltilingual program presenters for their first Episode of Malak Online TV which will be uploaded on www.malak.org.au from January 2015. If you are a performing artist, singer or dancer of the community and want to showcase your talent then send your expression of interest ASAP http://www.malak.org
www.namasteynt.com.au Issue 03 | January 2015
24 Health PAGE
By Padmaja Damodaran
Stroke
• High blood Cholesterol level • Alcoholism • Contraceptive medication • Old age • Obesity • Periodontal diseases (Gum disease) • Depression RELATED SYSTEMIC DISEASES includes - coronary diseases, Lower limbs arterial disease, Migraines etc.
INTRODUCTION: According to the recent Australian statistics of stroke foundation, “stroke is the second largest cause of death in Australia after coronary heart disease”. In 2014 about 51,000 Australians will suffer a new or recurrent stroke – that is 1000 strokes every week or one stroke every 10 minutes. World Health Organisation defines stroke as –A clinical syndrome of rapid onset of focal (or global, as in coma and subarachnoid haemorrhage) cerebral deficit lasting more than 24 hours or leading to death with no apparent cause other than a vascular one. Stroke is a serious and fatal neurological accident. In 2012 there were nearly130,000 or 30% of stroke survivors under the age of 65 in the community. [In 2012 there were over 420,000 people living with the effects of stroke and 30% of these people were of working age.]
In 2014 there were over 437,000 people living with the effects of stroke. This is predicted to increase to 709,000 in 2032. Stroke kills more women than breast cancer and more men than prostate cancer. Stroke is caused due to sudden interruption of oxygenated blood supply to the brain. This results in focal necrosis of brain tissue or death on any side of the brain. With this, the affected person is provoked with several disabilities such as speech deficiency and hemiplegia, which causes the body to lose sensorial capacity and motor deficiency on one side of the body due to paralysis. So this raises the question, “what are the indications of a person having a stroke?” Firstly, a person may encounter stroke due to various reasons such as • High blood pressure • Diabetes Mellitus • Chronic heavy smoking
RECOGNITION OF STROKE: The FAST is an easy test to recognize the most common signs of stroke. The F.A.S.T test stands for the below. • Face-Check their face. Has their mouth drooped? • Arms-Can they lift both arms? • Speech-Is their speech slurred? • Time-Is critical. How soon can the patient gets medical attention? IMMEDIATE ACTION- If he or she has trouble with any of these tasks, Call-000 or 112 from mobile(Australia)and describe the symptoms to the paramedics. My Mum’s friend was playing cards in a club. She was parting cards. Suddenly she had stopped and couldn’t go further. Her lip drooped and was getting incoherent. Immediately her friends reacted by calling Ambulance which came in 20 mins and reached hospital on time. Doctors were amazed with the recovery she made and in 6 months’ time with the help of rehabilitation she was back into action. I have dedicated this article to my Mum whom I lost due to lack of immediate action!!!
www.namasteynt.com.au Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
26
Ozfusion 2015 Monday 26 January 2015 from 5.00 pm to 8.00 pm at the Kalymnian Hall, 46 Batten Road, Marrara. (Note: we’ve moved venue since last years). Everyone is invited to this family-friendly community event on the Australia Day public holiday - organised by the Australia Day Council NT, Melaleuca Refugee Centre and the MCNT. OzFusion showcases Darwin’s vibrant cultural diversity through a program of exciting and engaging performances. Please invite your family, friends and other community members. OzFusion is a leading multicultural event in Darwin and getter bigger and better each year. This year OzFusion is proudly sponsored by the NT Government. Entry by gold coin donation. Drinks and food available for purchase at reasonable prices. Contact Ron at MCNT on 0412 314 517 for more details
www.namasteynt.com.au
Issue 03 | January 2015
News & Events IMAGES FROM DARWIN MALAYALEE FORUM CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS
PAGE
27
www.namasteynt.com.au Issue 03 | January 2015
28 News & Events PAGE
IMAGES FROM SRI LANKA AUSTRALIA FRIENDSHIP ASSOCIATION CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS
www.namasteynt.com.au
Issue 03 | January 2015
News & Events IMAGES FROM ICS CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS
IMAGES FROM TAMIL SOCIETY CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS
PAGE
29
www.namasteynt.com.au Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
30 Ayurvedic Wisdom How to Wake Up in a Good Mood Every Morning. How wonderful is it to roll out of bed in the morning feeling fresh, fully awake, and chipper! Imagine waking up in a good mood every morning, open to the infinite possibilities that each sunrise brings. This is how you deserve to feel every single day. Even if you don’t believe yourself a morning person, waking up in a good mood is never out of reach. We can all be morning people if we devote a little extra mindfulness to how we greet each sunrise. Wake up by 6 am. I know this might sound daunting but waking up early is key to feeling fresh. Ayurveda teaches us that rising by 6 am imbues us with the qualities of vata energy; granting us alertness and quickness for the rest of the day. After 6 am the morning takes on slow, heavy and dull kapha qualities. Waking during kapha time will likely make us feel slow and dull. You can read more about this here. Go to bed by 10 pm. How we slept last night has a huge effect on how we feel today. Ayurveda recommends that we go to sleep by 10 pm to synchronize ourselves with nature’s daily ebbs and flows. Around 10 pm, the night takes on a few hours of active, fiery pitta energy. If we stay up much past 10 we’ll likely experience a second wind, negatively affecting our sleep and impeding our early morning chipperness. Sleep with your curtains open. The dawning sun is the most gentle, peaceful alarm ever created. If there’s no chance of peepers or glaring city lights in your windows, give open curtains a try. You’ll find it easier to wake up if your body can register the morning light. Choose a nice sound for your alarm. It is completely unnatural to wake up to the blaring BEEP-BEEPBEEP sound of an alarm clock. Make your wake-up less abrasive with a soothing ring tone set on a low volume– think ocean waves, gongs, or the “chimes” ringtone on the iPhone. Hold off on looking at your phone, computer, or TV. If the first thing you see in the morning is a stressful work email or a horrific news story, your whole day will carry a negative undertone. Set your electronics aside until you’ve first done something that promotes your personal wellbeing. Begin the day with purification. Ayurveda’s wisdom teaches us to rid ourselves of the previous night’s accumulated wastes and toxins first thing in the morning. This means emptying the bowels, brushing the teeth, scraping the tongue, massaging the body with oil and bathing. Cultivate a morning ritual. After you’ve purified your body, do something for your mind and soul. Meditate, give gratitude, practice yoga, or go to nature. You might smudge some sage, dab yourself with uplifting essential oils, or listen to spiritual music. Devoting even 5 minutes to your deeper self will positively alter your entire day. It takes time to fully embrace this kind of routine. Start slowly by changing your alarm ringtone and going to bed by 10 pm. Wake up a little earlier each morning until you naturally arise with the morning dawn. You’ll soon find yourself waking up in a good mood every single day.
Movie Review By Uday Alexander
PK PK (tipsy in Hindi), the story of a curious, naïve alien, played by Aamir Khan, is a very thought provoking tale about exposing religious figures who are more into money than Gods. The story is started off narrated with a child-like innocence by PK himself. PK comes to Earth to explore and document Earth’s inhabitants, humans. As soon as he lands though, he is robbed of his amulet, which is his only way to get home. When this happens, he realises that people on Earth aren’t as friendly as the people from his planet and so he goes on a quest to find his amulet. He asks many people for help but all they say is “Only God can help you now!” His determination only increases and so he takes whatever he has and looks for ‘God’. Along his journey he meets a young reporter, Jaggu, who finds his story interesting. She organises an on-air face off with a prominent religious figure, Tapasvi, and together they uncover the truth behind the façade he puts up. The whole idea of an alien, who comes from a peaceful world in which the people have nothing to hide and no reason to lie, and then finds himself in a place where everything is just so complicated, is a very nice base on which this comedic, yet intellectual film is set. There are parts of the film that will have you laughing hysterically and parts which will have you on the verge of tears. Altogether it is a very inspiring and fascinating film which will leave you thinking. I recommend this film to teenagers and young adults. I give it 4.5 stars.
www.namasteynt.com.au Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
32
Recipes
By Diem Nguyen
Banh Xeo have lots of plans to travel. I really love going back to my parents’ hometown which is about a few hours from Ho Chi Minh City, which has inspired me to learn how to cook the Vietnamese traditional food. I have now mastered the Vietnamese savoury crepe known as Banh Xeo! Let me share the recipe with you, I’m sure you will not be disappointed. It’s an easy one to make at home - enjoy! Ingredients for the pancake mixture1 packet of premixed flour (can be purchased from your local Asian supermarket) 500mls of beer (secret ingredient) 300mls of coconut milk 1/2 cup of spring onion finely chopped. Ingredients for the traditional filling100gms bean sprouts 500gms of prawns 500gms of pork rashers 1 onion finely chopped Xin chao! (Hello!) My name is Diem Nguyen and I am honoured to share you my story about my family background and most of all, my passion for cooking Vietnamese food. In 1987, my parents were living in Vietnam and my mother was pregnant when they found out that my father had been conscripted into the military. Due to this, they immediately planned their escape from the country as they wanted a better future so they set off with a small wooden boat, a few days’ worth of food and just the clothes on their back. They were out at sea for many months and one night, a storm damaged their boat and they were lucky enough to be picked up by some fisherman who took them to shore on the coast of Thailand. For many years, we took refuge in Chon Buri camp in Thailand and that was where my brother Phuc and I were born.
1) Mix the contents of the powder mix into a large mixing bowl with a teaspoon of turmeric powder. 2) Gradually add the coconut milk and beer to the flour. Stir it gently until a smooth consistency. Then add the finely chopped spring onions into the mixture and set aside for 30minutes. 3) Season the pork and prawns with a pinch of salt and pepper. Drain the bean sprouts and prepare the 3 ingredients for the filling.
One day, we got the good news that a kind lady had wanted to sponsor us to Australia and my family has never looked back.
4) After 30 minutes the mixture should be ready, turn the heat on your non-stick pan, add some vegetable oil and pan fry the pork until cooked. Get a ladle and scoop mixture, enough to just cover the pan evenly with the pork still in it. Add the finely chopped onions, bean sprouts and prawns onto one half of the crepe. Close the lid for a few minute to allow cooking. Remove lid after a few minutes and check the base is golden brown and crispy looking. Then flip the crepe on the side with no filling to make a half moon shape. Slide the crepe onto a plate and repeat this step.
I have now lived in Darwin for 22 years and my parents had one wish for me and that was to get a good education. So I went to Humpty Doo primary school and finished my high school years at Taminmin High. I then went on to complete my Bachelor of Business Degree at Charles Darwin University. Currently I am working at TIO and
To make the dipping sauce: in a bowl, add 3 tablespoons of sugar, and a cup of warm water to dissolve the sugar. Squeeze half a lemon and half a cup of fish sauce. Then add finely chopped garlic and one chilli. Adjust the sauce with any of these ingredients to suit your taste buds. Serve with some cucumber and lettuce!
www.namasteynt.com.au Issue 03 | January 2015 PAGE
34
Birthday Wishes Happy Birthday to Basil Tom, who is celebrating his 13th Birthday on the 24th of January.