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December 2014

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Arjun Kapoor’s “Childhood Dream� Fulfilled in Tevar

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CONTENTS

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INDIAN TIMES

December 2014

Melbourne Office

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All new medicines to come under price control

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he drug price regulator has mandated companies to seek its approval for every new medicine, including combinations of existing ones, to ensure that consumers are not overcharged. According to the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) all innovative launches like new combinations of price-controlled medicines as well as those with changed strengths and dosages will be treated as ‘new medicines’.

The move is aimed at spanning the price regulation of essential medicines, while also keeping a check on innovative branding and marketing strategies of pharmaceutical com-

December 2014 Edition

panies to circumvent price control, an official, in the know of developments, said.

Currently, prices of 374 medicines are directly capped by the government at the average price of those being sold with at least 1 per cent market share. This roughly accounts for 10-13% of the total domestic pharmaceutical market pegged at around Rs 79,000 crore.

In order to escape price regulation, companies often launch newer combinations by making minor changes to existing pricecontrolled medicines. Sometimes, firms also tweak the strengths and dosages to bypass the price ceiling.

While such products are launched as newer brands, companies benefit from such strategies because under the existing law, firms are free to fix the launch price of all medicines, other than the 374 that are directly under government control. Even for such medicines, companies are free to raise prices by up to 10% annually.

“Market launch and/or sale of a ‘new drug’, as defined under paragraph 2 (u) of the DPCO (Drugs Price Control Order) 2013 without prior approval of retail price by the NPPA or where such approval stands withdrawn shall not only attract recovery of overcharged amount along with interest and

penalty but also prosecution under Section 7 of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955,” NPPA said in a recent notice.

The regulator has also asked companies to submit a compliance certificate from Drug Controller General of India (DCGI), which monitors quality of medicines and gives approval to new products.

The move is the latest among various stringent measures adopted by the government and the regulator in recent past to keep prices of medicines under check. The regulator has already proposed to revise the list of essential medicines to include medicine formulations that are commonly sold.

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News 5a New Janata parivar takes shape to counter BJP and Modi indiantimes

December 2014 Edition

Photo source: PTI

T

he once-firebrand young Turks of the socialist movement, who fell apart more than two decades ago, are set to re-unite as a family of ageing warriors. The process will begin with a huddle in Delhi on Thursday, and if all goes well, Nitish Kumar’s JD(U), Lalu Prasad’s (RJD), HD Deve Gowda’s JD(S), and Om Prakash Chautala’s INLD will merge as a new party under the leadership of former wrestler and SP supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav.

More than love for one another, it is the fear of rapidly diminishing political relevance and rise of BJP under PM Narendra Modi that is driving the process.

The new entity could be named the Samajwadi Janata Dal. Given the SP’s better credentials — being in power in Uttar Pradesh and also having the most MPs in Parliament among the lot — it is likely that Mulayam will be asked to lead the new party in the making.

“However, a mechanism for collective leadership will also be worked out,” sources said. “The JD (U) is hopeful and keen on a merger of our parties. It is time for us to come together and jointly confront the challenges facing the country,” former Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar said.

“The Janata parivar merger should be seen as the first step in the direction of consolidating secular forces. Other like-minded parties could join at a later stage. Even the Congress and the Left parties are likely to support this secular formation,” said JD (U) spokesperson KC Tyagi.

After the luncheon meeting at the SP leader’s residence, leaders of the fledging group are likely to announce joint campaign programme to highlight “failures of the NDA government” on issues including black money, unemployment and farmers’ problems.

Senior BJP leader and environment minister Prakash Javadekar said that in a democracy, all political groupings had a right to come together or split. “But the Janata parivar

DNA dictates that they come together and split again,” he said.

Senior Congress leader Shakeel Ahmed remarked, “Old

socialists are known for their typical characteristics. They cannot live without each other for a long time. But they also cannot live together for more than one year.”

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In a first, two Indian universities make it to Times’ top 40

here is great news for India’s universities.

For the first time, two new Indian entrants have jumped straight into the top 40 of second annual Times Higher Education Brics and Emerging Economies rankings.

Also, 11 other Indian universities have made it to the top 100 rankings.

Around 18 countries are featured in 2015 rankings released.

Around 15 universities - from Chile, China, India, Malaysia, Pakistan, Russia and Turkey have entered the tables for the first time.

China has cemented its dominance among the emerging economies, retaining the top two places and increasing its representation among the top-100 institutions to 27, up from 23 last year.

India has increased its representation with 11 of the top-100 places, up from 10 last year and it has a new national leader - Indian Institute of Science in 25th place and the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay in 37th place.

Phil Baty, editor of the Times Higher Education Rankings, said “India is starting to show

its potential in these rankings, increasing its overall representation in this new top-100 list to 11, from 10 last year. Only China and Taiwan have more top-100 institutions than India, which remains ahead of Russia and Brazil among the giant developing economies. But this improved showing is partly due to the fact that more Indian institutions have recognised the benefits of being part of the rankings process, and more are sharing their data with Times Higher Education”.

“Several Indian institutions have actually lost ground compared with last year. So there is clearly no room for any complacency. The good news is that by engaging with the global rankings and sharing performance data to benchmark themselves against the tough global standards set

by Times Higher Education, India’s leading institutions have shown a hunger for further development and for sharing best practice. If this is backed by a government-led commitment to support India’s top universities to compete on the global stage, with sufficient funding and reforms, there would be plenty of room for optimism.”

The Rankings have been giv-

Photo source: PTI

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en after accessing all aspects of the modern university’s core missions (teaching, research, knowledge transfer and international outlook).

China retains the top two positions (Peking University followed

by Tsinghua University) in the

rankings.

Fudan University follows Peking and Tsinghua, taking ninth place, while University of Science and Technology of China loses its top-10 position, moving into joint 11th place.

Russia has seen a dramatic

improvement in its standing - increasing its representatives in the top 100 from just two last year to seven this year, and seeing its number one university, Moscow State University, moving from 10th to 5th.

Photo source: PTI

Delhi wants France, Russia to source nuclear parts in India

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he government is working on plans to get Russian and French nuclear component suppliers to enter into sourcing arrangements with Indian firms instead of importing reactor parts, a move aimed at

December 2014 Edition

boosting the Make in India initiative and reducing costs.

It is understood that the IndiaRussia vision document on energy cooperation to be released during President Vladimir Putin’s visit later this month will reflect

Moscow’s willingness to be part of Make in India in the nuclear sector. India feels that getting the Russians to source locally will give a major leg-up to domestic companies.

On the cost front, sources fa-

miliar with the developments said that the immediate reason local sourcing was being suggested was the high price of power quoted by French supplier Areva, which is helping set up six 1,650MW reactors at nuclear power

parks at Jaitapur in Maharashtra.

“It looks like the cost of power could be between Rs. 9.50 and Rs. 11 per unit,” said one of the sources. The Department of Atomic Energy’s benchmark price per unit in 2020-21, when the reactors are due to go critical, is Rs. 6.50.

It is understood that the French have tried to justify the high prices by citing the cost of imported parts like reactor domes, being brought from Japan.

“A reactor has a lot of civil work associated to it. When you look at reducing cost without compromising on quality, Indian companies can come handy,” said the source, adding that the move would give a fillip to the Indian manufacturing sector as a whole.

India is keen on attracting investment into the sector and quenching its thirst for electricity. It aims to increase nuclear power generation to 63,000 MW from 4,780 MW at a cost of $85 billion.

It was reported that the Modi government is working on measures to reassure component suppliers frightened by the country’s laws, which hold them liable for accidents and put them at risk of financial ruin.

Indian firms Larsen & Toubro (L&T), Walchandnagar Industries and Godrej and Boyce have a potentially active role in the nuclear sector. But like foreign players, they have been worried by the nuclear liability law.

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re you single, male, Muslim and under 30? If yes, then you should not apply for a pilgrimage visa to strifetorn Iraq. Alshaya Nasser Travels, one of the two Iraqi governmentorganized agencies (the other is Faiz-e-Hussaini) that facilitate visa processing, has asked tour operators not to accept passports from applicants who are single, under 30 and unaccompanied by family members. The advisory comes after four Kalyan youths, all single and under 30, used the pilgrimage route to travel to Iraq in May and join the jihadist outfit ISIS there.

The ministry of external affairs has said that it has not issued any such instructions to the tour operators.

On May 23, the four—Arif Majeed, Fahad Shaikh, Aman Tandel and Shahim Tanki—part of a group of 26 pilgrims, flew to Baghdad to visit holy shrines. A few days later, they disappeared and joined the ISIS. One of them, Arif Majeed, has returned and is currently being interrogated by the National Investigation Agency. “Had we put this condition earlier, the four Kalyan boys who used pilgrimage as a path to join the jihadist group could have been prevented. This is in the interest of tour operators, too, as disappearance of pilgrims dur-

ing travel causes trouble for them as well. This will discourage those boys who are similarly influenced by jihadist ideology and may be planning to join the so-called holy war in future,” said an executive of Alshaya Nasser Travels.

The four youths used the services of Dongri-based tour operator Ajmeri Tours and travelled in a group of 26 to Iraq on May 23.

While Ajmeri Tours’ owner refused to comment as he said the authorities had advised him against speaking to the media, other tour operators concurred that the new advisory was “necessary”. ”Our business may get hit a little as many of the pilgrims used to be single and under 30. But in the changed circumstances, it seems necessary. Though tour operators only arrange pilgrimage for those who have valid travel documents, they get harassed if any untoward incident takes place during travel,” said Mohammed Umar of A Q International Tours and Travels, which has also received the advisory.

Umar added that after the disappearance of the youths during travel, tour operators have started holding a few counselling sessions about precautions pilgrims must take during travel. “We tell them to always remain with the group and not decide to visit sites on their

Photo source: PTI

Young, single Muslim males from India barred from visiting Iraq A

own,” he said. The Kalyan youths had reportedly told their tour operator they wanted to shop but did not return from their “shopping spree”.

Approximately 25,000 to 30,000 Indian pilgrims visit Iraq annually.

While most of them visit Karbala

and Najaf, many others travel to Baghdad and a few other places, too. “It is good that single, under30 men are not allowed to travel unless accompanied by their family members. This will prevent potential extremists from using the pilgrimage route to join a violent

movement,” said Yusuf Ahmed of Al-Khalid Tours, another tour operator.

An official from Faiz-e-Hussaini, which facilitates visas of Bohra pilgrims, said they will discuss whether they should issue a similar advisory.

Photo source: PTI

Jaitley to Pakistan: Borders can’t be changed

D

escribing the higher voter turnout in J&K polls as a “message for the outside world”, Union finance minister Arun Jaitley on Wednesday warned Pakistan against any

December 2014 Edition

adventurism over Kashmir.

Addressing a huge gathering of the civil society members in Srinagar’s Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre, Jaitley said Pakistan will have

to understand that times have changed and that borders cannot be redrawn. ”Global appetite to accept violence is over. India’s strength to defeat any kind of insurgency

has grown. Gun cannot change anything now,” the Union minister said.

Congratulating the people of the state for their massive participation in the first two phases of the assembly polls, Jaitley said they have written a “new page of history.”

He said the massive turnout has sent a message ato the outside world that Kashmiri people wanted to decide their future by casting vote in favour of a democracy.

“This vote has come despite past sufferings, boycott calls and inclement weather because people are fed up with the past happenings,” Jaitley added.

Jaitley said it was his party, the BJP, which deserves credit for conducting what he said were free and fair polls in the state.

The Union minister also chose to redefine former BJP Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s famous slogan of resolving Kashmir “Insaniyat ke dayeeray mein (Within the limits of humanity).

“Insaniyat means creating an equal and just society. It does not mean not responding to terror or breaking up the nation,” said Jaitley, while promising equality and prosperity under the Indian constitution.

He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s policy is clear that if there is any violation there should be investigation.

“Within two hours of the killing of two boys (in Budgam), I, as

defence minister, not only condemned but apologised for the deaths. The investigations also proved the army men were guilty and the army visited the victim families. It was historical.”

Reiterating that J&K was “an integral part of India”, the Union minister asked separatists to join the mainstream.

“We will welcome and talk with open heart to those who give up separatism,” Jaitley added.

In a veiled reference to the debate of Article 370, he said, “People here have distanced themselves from the state-centre relations debate. It was no debate during the floods where people were just worried about safety and lives. People now want to get heard for justice, have economic development and better living standards.”

Describing younger generation as “aspirational”, the Union minister said the common man in Kashmir has borne the brunt of the violence.

“Younger generation will not forgive those who harp on the past,” he said.

The BJP leader said time has come for Kashmir to choose mainstream national party to achieve the party vision of peace, progress and prosperity.

The Union minister was accompanied by senior BJP leader Ram Madhav, P S Gill, Avinash Khanna and G A Mir.

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Modi, the ‘Man of action’ has impressed me so far: Obama

Photo source: PTI

U

ness round table, Obama said the US, over the last six years,

has put more people back to work than Europe, Japan, and the rest

MoneyGram Expands Money Transfer in Australia With Additional Self-Service Kiosks MoneyGram Expands Kiosk Service Through Select United Petroleum Locations

A

ustralia-based customers looking to transfer funds to family and friends now have access to more easy-to-use kiosks as part of a new agreement between MoneyGram (NASDAQ: MGI), a leading global money transfer company, and Australia fuel company United Petroleum, one of the country’s fastest growing independent companies. The kiosks, which have multi-lingual capabilities, will allow customers to stage transfers with the click of a button.

This move is part of MoneyGram’s strategy to revolutionize self-service money transfer through innovative channels like kiosks and mobile services. Now, through MoneyGram’s dedicated kiosks, consumers can easily send money at retail, petrol and convenience stores that were not previously equipped to offer such products. With consumers sending over $5 billion AUD annually across borders, Australia is an important remittance market for MoneyGram to expand its self-service platform.

Over six million immigrants reside in Australia, including residents from the United Kingdom, New December 2014 Edition

Zealand, China, India and Vietnam.

“MoneyGram is committed to providing customers with innovative ways to quickly send and receive funds, and by working with United Petroleum to provide user-friendly kiosks, we are placing customer accessibility first,” says Grant Lines, MoneyGram’s executive vice president of Asia Pacific, South Asia and the Middle East. “United Petroleum’s relationship with Cullinan Consulting Group, which provides the kiosks and retailer assistance technology, has enabled us to offer this easy-to-use, technologically advanced service to our customers at their local petrol stations.”

The agreement is a step forward in MoneyGram’s global transformation to focus on innovative selfservice channels that enhance the customer experience. The company’s internal goal is to grow selfservice channels to represent 1520% of money transfer revenue in 2017.

Founded in 1993, United Petroleum specializes in the retail and wholesale fuel markets, ethanol manufacturing and convenience stores.

of the advanced world combined.

The growth of emerging mar-

kets have been slower than anticipated, he noted.

Court: Drinking while pregnant not a crime

Photo source: PTI

S President Barack Obama today praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts to shake up the “bureaucratic inertia” in India, less than a month after he described Prime Minister as a “man of action”.

However, Obama said that this was a long-term project and one would have to see how successful Prime Minister Modi is in his efforts.

“Modi has impressed me so far with his willingness to shake up the bureaucratic inertia inside of India. But that is a long-term project and we’ll have to see how successful he is,” Obama told a business roundtable, which was attended by top corporate leaders of the country.

The roundtable was organized to discuss the current economic condition of the US and across the globe.

Last month in Myanmar on the sidelines of the East Asia Summit, Obama in his brief interaction with Modi had told him that he is a “man of action”.

On his return from the 10-day trip to the Asia Pacific region that took him to Beijing, Myanmar and Australia, Obama announced that he has accepted an invitation to be the chief guest at the annual Republic Day parade in New Delhi on January 26 next year.

In his interaction at the busi-

B

ritain’s Court of Appeal rejected claims that a child born with severe brain damage because her mother drank excessively, while pregnant, was a victim of crime, a ruling which has important consequences for expectant women.

Lawyers acting for the girl, now aged 7 and known only as CP, argued that she should be entitled to compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority as her mother, who had an alcohol addiction, had inflicted “grievous bodily harm” by poisoning her. The girl, now in the care of a local authority which brought the

claim, was born with Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder that can cause severe learning difficulties and growth problems. The mother had been drinking eight cans of strong lager and half a bottle of vodka a day.

Three Court of Appeal judges accepted that CP was poisoned and had suffered harm, but ruled that under English law a foetus was not considered a person, and so, the mother could not have committed a crime. Campaigners said a contrary decision could have led to pregnant women being liable for criminal offences for a growing list of activities which could risk their babies’ health.

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Indian women in mental hospitals ‘treated worse than animals’

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report has shown increasing evidence of women and girls with disabilities being “involuntarily” admitted to mental hospitals and institutions where they face unsanitary conditions, risk physical and sexual violence and are subject to treatment including electric shock therapy without their consent.

The report by Human Rights Watch researched over two years in 24 government institutions in six

cities found that none of the 128 women or girls documented for the study admitted to institutional care were asked for their consent. About 31 cases (20 women and 11 girls) were subject to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) without their consent, says the report.

In some facilities the HRW report “Treated Worse than Animals: abuses against women and girls with psychosocial or intellectual disability in institutions in India” found overcrowding and

lack of hygiene. For instance as of November 2014 close to 900 people live in Asha Kiran a government institution for people with intellectual disabilites in Delhi—nearly three times the hospital’s capacity. In Pune Mental Hospital there are only 25 working toilets for 1850 inmates.

“Women and girls with disabilities are dumped in institutions by their family members or police in part because the government is failing to provide appropriate support

and services,” Kirti Sharma, HRW researcher said.

The only existing mechanism was to report to institution staff which does not constitute an independent mechanism as staff themselves may be perpetrators of abuse. HRW found 12 cases of verbal, 38 of physical and four cases of sexual violence against women.

Those interviewed reported being beaten by police, welfare officers, and institutional staff. Cases of FIRs are few because testimonials of these victims are considered unreliable.

A welfare officer at a residential care institution reported that a woman sent for treatment for three months, came back one month pregnant while in another case the caregiver forced the patient in to a bathroom and raped her on the pretext of giving her medicines.

The HRW has recommended orderly inspections and regular monitoring of all such facilities to ensure that such people receive treatment on the basis of informed consent. Also, there should be a complaint mechanism to receive and investigate complaints about ill treatment of persons in such institutions, they say.

The 106-page report documents involuntary admission and arbitrary detention in institutions as it also examines the multiple barriers that prevent such women and girls from reporting abuses and accessing justice.

The Indian government should pursue urgent legal reforms, including amending two bills currently before Parliament, to address these abuses and protect the rights of women and girls with intellectual or psychosocial disabilities. HRW’s Meenakshi Ganguly said that the report had been submitted to the ministries of health and women and child development.

Moreover, according to HRW, there are no clear official government records or estimates of the prevalence of psychosocial or intellectual disabilities in India.

The 2011 census estimates that only 2.21% of the Indian population has a disability - including 1.5 million people (0.1% of the population) with intellectual disabilities and a mere 7,22,826 people (0.05% of the population) with psychosocial disabilities (such as schizophrenia or bipolar condition).

The Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare claims much higher percentage of the Indian population is affected by psychosocial disabilities with 6-7% (74.2 - 86.5 million) affected by “mental disorders” and 1-2% (12.4 - 24.7 million) by “serious mental disorders.”

The central government in India should immediately order an evaluation and take steps to end abusive practices in institutions by organizing effective monitoring of such facilities, HRW said.

Emotional Gordon Brown thanks Indian doctor who saved his eye

Photo source: PTI

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s former prime minister Gordon Brown announced his plans to quit politics in an emotional speech on Monday night, one of the first people he thanked was an Indian doctor who saved his right eye after the left had gone blind during a rugby accident when he was 16.

Brown had gone down on a loose ball and been kicked in the head close to his eyes, which led to his losing sight in the left eye. The right eye also showed signs of dimishing sight by the time he was 18, when he was referred to a pioneering surgeon, Hector Chawla.

Based at Edinburgh University, Chawla had just returned from a fellowship as a retinal surgeon in Chicago. Chawla operated on Brown’s right eye, which restored his sight completely, enabling

December 2014 Edition

him to follow his career in politics.

Based in Edinburgh, Chawla, now 77, was among the audience as Brown made the announcement that he would not contest the May 2015 elections in his constituency of Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath in Scotland.

Brown revealed that he faced retinal problems in the good eye while he was prime minister between 2007 and 2010: “When I was in Downing Street and he (Chawla) was retired and they discovered there were tears ... he came to help me again.” Chawla was born in Sialkot before India’s independence to a Scottish mother and an Indian father who was serving in the British Army in World War II. Described as a precise, fastidious man, Chawla set up Scotland’s first centre of retinal surgery.

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Arjun Kapoor’s “Childhood Dream” Fulfilled in Tevar

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rjun Kapoor’s childhood dream of working with producer father Boney Kapoor has come true with upcoming action-drama film Tevar, where the father-son duo has collaborated for the first time.

Arjun, who is Boney Kapoor’s son from his first wife Mona Shourie, said

it was a nice moment to work in the film which also stars his uncle Sanjay Kapoor.

“It’s not yet sunk in that I have worked for a home production. It has always been a dream working with dad, Sanjay (Kapoor) chachu and Anil (Kapoor) chachu. And that happened in my fifth

film.

There are more emotions attached at the personal level than at the professional front,” Arjun said in an interview.

The 29-year-old Finding Fanny actor said he waited for a long time to work with his father.

“I am emotional by nature. I waited for this opportunity for 29 years. And it’s not an easy job to be accepted as an actor.

Obviously, he has a sense of pride and that reflects in our emotions and that I guess will happen quite often,” he said.

Arjun recalled how he used to accompany his father on his grand sets.

“I always thought that my father is the biggest producer in this world. His films sets used to be so big that I used to get lost in it.

During the shooting of Loafer there was a huge set at Ramoji film city and similarly during Roop Ki Rani Choron Ka Raja, the set was for 150 junior artists and 200 actors,” he said.

The actor said his father always taught him to work hard to get success.

“I learnt from dad that hard work never fails. He always asked me to work hard to survive in the industry. He is always encouraging. One thing which I like about him is he is not interfering even as a father or as a producer. Whatever wrong or right decisions I have made he always supported me. He has given me that much respect and credit. Always supported my decisions in my personal and professional life,” Arjun said.

Tevar, which hits theatre on January 9 next year, is a remake of Telugu blockbuster Okkadu. It stars actress Sonakshi Sinha opposite him.

“I was very keen on working with her (Sonakshi) and I told my father that she is the ideal choice for this role. She has a spark in her eyes which was the need of the role. From her first day on the set, I felt that she is a naturally gifted actress. She is a one take actress,” he said.

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Nasa counts down to Orion’s first step to Mars he Orion spacecraft, designed to carry humans farther in deep space than ever before, is poised to blast off on Thursday in what Nasa hailed as a first step in mankind’s journey to Mars. No astronauts will be on board the capsule when it launches aboard the United States’ largest rocket, the Delta IV Heavy made

by United Launch Alliance, but engineers will be keenly watching to see how it performs during the four-and-a-half hour flight. The launch marks the first of a US spacecraft meant to carry people into deep space since the Apollo missions that brought men to the Moon in the 1960s and 1970s.

With no American vehicle to send humans to space since the space shuttle was retired in 2011, some at Nasa said the Orion launch has re-energized the US space programme, long constrained by government belt-tightening and forced to rely on costly rides aboard Russian Soyuz spacecraft to reach the International Space Station (ISS) in low-Earth orbit.

“We haven’t had this feeling in awhile, since the end of the shuttle programme, (of) launching an American spacecraft from America’s soil and beginning something new,” said Mike Sarafin, lead flight director at Nasa’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.

“While the feeling is familiar and the anticipation of flight is familiar, it is a new mission and there

some things that I am sure we are going to learn tomorrow from this unmanned flight test that will enable us to fly humans into deep space.” Potential future missions for Orion, which is designed to fit four people at a time, include a trip to lasso an asteroid and a journey to Mars by the 2030s.

“Thursday is the beginning of that journey, testing key systems — the riskiest systems I would say for Orion — before we have any people on board,” said Mark Geyer, programme manager for Orion. “This is the beginning of exploration,” he added. The launch at 7:05 am (1205 GMT) from Cape Canaveral, Florida, aims to propel 1.63 million pounds (739,000 kilograms) of spacecraft, rocket and fuel straight to space, where the capsule will make two laps around the Earth before splashing down in the Pacific Ocean. The first orbit will be about as high as the ISS, which circles at an altitude of about 270 miles (430 kilometers), but the second will soar 15 times higher, to an apogee of 3,600 miles (5,800 kilometers) above the Earth.

The chief contractor of the Orion capsule is Lockheed Martin. The spacecraft was first designed to take humans to the Moon as part of Nasa’s Constellation programme, which was cancelled by President Barack Obama in 2010, in favor or seeking new destinations in deep space. The goal is both nebulous

and costly, and Nasa has already spent billions of dollars on Orion and the powerful rocket meant to propel it with crew on board, the Space Launch System (SLS).

The first Orion test flight with people on board is scheduled for 2021, but with costs projected to reach $19-22 billion, space analyst Marco Caceres of the Teal Group in Virginia said it could be longer. “Assuming Congress or one of the next two presidents do not cancel SLS because of its inevitably ballooning costs, it’s more likely that the first SLS/ Orion manned mission will occur closer to the middle part of the next decade,” Caceres said. As Nasa looks beyond the Moon, safety for human explorers is another key problem that has yet to be solved. “Radiation is one of the biggest challenges for us,” Nasa administrator Charles Bolden told an audience of Nasa enthusiasts gathered at Kennedy Space Center for a social media event. The primary objective of Thursday’s test, according to Geyer, is to see how the heat shield performs as it reaches temperatures of 4,000 degrees Fahrenheit (2,200 Celsius) on its high-speed plunge back to Earth at a velocity of 20,000 miles (32,000 kilometers) per hour. “A part of me hopes that everything is perfect. We land, have highfives and everybody has a great time,” Geyer told reporters. But he

Photo source: PTI

T

The launch aims to see how the heat shield performs as it reaches 4,000º F on its high-speed plunge back to Earth at a velocity of 20,000 miles per hour

added that the test is designed to find things that go wrong before precious lives are on board. “We want to discover things that are beyond our modeling capability and beyond our expertise so we can learn it and fix it before we put people on board.” Weather for

Thursday’s launch was expected to be 70% favorable, with some risk of winds and rain, but Nasa said the two hour, 39-minute launch window gives the team plenty of flexibility to accomplish the launch during the daylight hours.

Rehmat Sandhu Falls to death from a Southbank Apartment

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21-year-old Indian-origin man on Saturday died after falling from 26th floor of a high-rise apartment building here.

Rehmat Sandhu died falling from the glass balcony of a 36-storey apartment

December 2014 Edition

building of the City Road tower.

He was a member of a Punjab dance group based in Melbourne.

The Age newspaper quoted a nightclub owner Gary Vohra who had met Sandhu and his friends for drinks last night as

saying, “From what I heard, Rehmat went to sit on the balcony railing, and it was wet and he’s gone over.”

Local police said that they were investigating the death of a man and were currently talking to several people who

were in the apartment at the time of the incident.

“The death is deemed non-suspicious and police will prepare a report for the Coroner,” police said.

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Photo source: PTI

How can a govt run liquor business, asks Madras HC

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laming alcoholism for road deaths and many social evils, the Madras high court on Wednesday said if governments ‘t bring about total prohibition, they should at least restrict sale of liquor. It wanted to know how a government could run the liquor business when the Constitution advocated total prohibition, and asked whether money from liquor outweighed the duty to ensure public safety and health.

Passing interim orders in an accident compensation case, Justice N Kirubakaran raised 16 queries and asked the central and the state governments to furnish replies by December 11.

How is it that drinking water is scarce in several villages whereas liquor flows like water in every nook and corner of the country, he asked.

Justice Kirubakaran said one should go to the root of the menace of drunk driving and analyse how much did governments contribute to it.

The judge said since there is a direct connection between liquor and deaths in road accidents, matrimonial disharmony and personal relationships, governments should come forward at least to cap liquor vending hours to eight hours from 12 hours a day. While Article 47 of the Constitution says the government should en-

deavour to achieve total prohibition in the country, Section 185 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 prohibits drunken driving. The judge was hearing an appeal from the families of two youths who were killed in a road accident involving an MTC bus on LB Road in Adyar in Chennai. A motor accidents claims tribunal awarded Rs 11 lakh to one victim, and reduced 20% for other victim due to ‘contributory negligence’, saying he was riding the bike and he was drunk.

“Even water (drinking water) is scarce in most parts of our country, but this ‘water’ (alcohol) flows aplenty in every nook and corner of the nation. Many families are

drowned. Liquor is poison to society. Liquor is the basic reason for many social evils. In spite of that, governments are opening as many liquor shops/bars as possible with the sole aim of getting revenue,” lamented Justice Kirubakaran.

Pointing out that the Tamil Nadu government has been running 6,850 retail liquor shops, ‘serving the needy people’, with a total turnover of Rs 30,000 crore, Justice Kirubakaran said: “Many families are shattered because of drinking, and their health and peace of mind are lost due to alcohol.”

Noting that women and children were adversely affected by alcoholism, the judge said it hit them physically as well as economically. He said juveniles were also increasingly becoming addicts, and said the ‘dangerous problem’ should be fought jointly by policy makers, bureaucrats, NGOs, political parties and people. It is alleged that some government servants are coming to office after consuming liquor, he said.

Justice Kirubakaran was also of the view that full details of road accidents, including those caused by drunk driving, are not available because such cases are either not correctly filed or under-reported or unreported. It is done for the purpose of getting compensation by victims or their kin, he added. “If actual details are available, it will be shocking,” he said.

Justice Kirubakaran then suo motu impleaded the Union cabi-

net secretary, besides Tamil Nadu’s revenue secretary, managing director of Tasmac (the state-owned liquor retailer in TN) and director general of police, and asked them to file their replies by December 11. They shall answer a set of 16 queries, which included: Whether states could open liquor shops and bars encouraging drunken driving, and whether in the opinion of the government, the money derived from liquor shops outweighs the right to protection of life enshrined in the Constitution?

He asked as to why the government could not find an alternative source of revenue and why the Centre not make drunken driving a non-bailable offence. As an interim measure, why not the government reduce business hours of liquor shops and bars from 12 hours a day (10am to 10pm) to eight hours, from noon to 8pm, he asked.

As long as one of the directive principles in the Constitution indicates that the state should strive towards prohibition, the question asked by the court in this case - what is the government doing making money from liquor sales? - will remain valid even if it seems out of synch with our common sense. The real question to be asked, therefore, is whether it is time to take a relook at some of the directive principles themselves. They may have made sense in the political, social and cultural context of the late 1940s and early 1950s, but do all of them remain as valid over six decades later?

Children of Mayfield Community Benefit from New Nature Garden

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ne of Victoria’s newest Lend Lease communities, Mayfield is now home to a new nature garden specially designed to nurture young minds and bodies.

Nature gardens are an emerging trend in healthy child development. Research from the Natural Learning Initiative has shown that natural outdoor learning improves children’s

December 2014 Edition

creativity, problem solving skills and enhances cognitive abilities.

Lend Lease have created natural play spaces for children around Australia, including the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne and Darling Quarter in Sydney. Neil O’Connor, Lend Lease General Manager for Victoria, says design of the Mayfield children’s nature garden is informed by research and the company’s experience in diverse

communities.

“We build communities and, at the foundation of healthy communities, are healthy families.”

“The nature garden at Mayfield creates natural landscape with stones perfect for sitting on, wooden structures perfect for climbing, and sand and dirt perfect for getting hands into,” he said.

Mayfield’s garden is nestled

within a three hectare natural woodland reserve. It features a birds nest climbing structure which is centred around an old oak tree, a sand pit, basket swings and balance beams – all within native flora and fauna.

The launch of the nature garden last month also coincided with the launch of a boutique display village showcasing eleven contemporary homes.

“It is also important that we

consider the diversity of the population at Mayfield, their differing needs and provide a wide range of house and land solutions accordingly,” Mr O’Connor said.

You’re welcome to visit Mayfield community at 1555 South Gippsland Highway, Cranbourne East. The sales office is open between 9am and 5pm, 7 days a week.

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A

s part of its state action plan for 2014-15 the Parkash Singh Badalled government in Punjab placed an order for room bugs and button cameras.

It has also placed orders for bug detectors to trace surveillance equipment that may have been used against tops ministers.

While the purchase of bugs will be made for the vigilance department that is headed by the chief minister, the detectors will be bought for the Special Protection Unit (SPU) headed by deputy chief minister Sukhbir Badal.

The SPU which protects the CM and Sukhbir will get three bug detectors each costing Rs 2.09 lakh. The unit has also decided to purchase a sniper detector worth Rs 90 lakh. SPU was formed by the deputy CM in 2011.

As many as 11 electric stretoscopes worth Rs 1.25 lakh each and a “buster for detection of explosives� worth Rs 15 lakh would also be procured. The plan was approved in August by a state level empowered committee headed by chief secretary Sarvesh Kaushal, principal secretary (home) Jagpal Singh, Punjab DGP Sumedh Singh Saini and

principal secretary (finance) Vini Mahajan.

When asked why they were bought, officials refused to give a straight answer.

Many in the opposition believe that government uses the police machinery to eavesdrop on political opponents.

What happened in 2008 when the Akali government allowed tapping of the judiciary was blatant misuse of off-air and secret surveillance gadgets. The equipment is being purchased only to listen in to personal conversations of politicians or media and arm-twist them.

Democracy is being murdered and constitution is being violated

by Akalis,� said Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) chief Partap Bajwa.

No Punjab government official either in the police or the administration was ready to speak I on the issue. Several text messages and phone calls to the chief secretary yielded no response.

A January 11, 2009 letter — leaked in November 2012 — by a sitting Supreme Court judge Justice Tirath Singh Thakur to then Chief Justice of India had alleged that the Punjab police chief and the then director of vigilance Sumedh Singh Saini

Photo source: PTI

Punjab govt spending lakhs on snooping devices

had fabricated evidence against nine judges of the high court in 2008 by placing telephones of two individuals under surveillance.

Row in Punjab Over Dead ‘Godman’ in Freezer

T

December 2014 Edition

made the order on a petition filed in April by a man called Dilip Kumar, who claims to be Ashutosh Maharaj’s son and has sought custody of his body to perform last rites.

Punjab Police chief Sumedh Singh Saini met Maharaj’s followers yesterday to determine how to implement the court’s order. The court has ordered the formation of a committee of senior officers to oversee law and order during the process.

The state police says it does not want to take chances and will draw its lessons from the recent two-week stand-off at an ashram in neighbouring Haryana, where the self-styled godman Rampal had sequestered himself along with a private army and many followers to evade arrest.

Rampal’s followers had clashed with the police, which had to storm the 12acre ashram to arrest the controversial guru. Five women and an infant died during the stand off.

after one of the judges Justice Mehtab Singh Gill had directed a “CBI investigation against him in a case of custodial killing�.

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Photo source: PTI

he police has beefed up security and is keeping a close eye on an ashram near Jalandhar in Punjab, where there is tension after the High Court ordered that the body of the guru who headed the ashram be cremated within 15 days.

The body of Ashutosh Maharaj has been lying in a freezer since January 29 this year, when doctors said that he was “clinically dead.� His followers insist that their guru is not dead but in deep meditation or “samadhi� and have refused to cremate him.

No one has reportedly been allowed to examine the body.

Ashutosh Maharaj headed the Divya Jyoti Jagriti Sansthan sect headquartered at Nurmahal near Jalandhar; the sect allegedly has property and assets running into hundreds of crores.

Earlier this week, the Punjab and Haryana High Court directed the Punjab government to conduct the last rites of the self-styled godman within 15 days. It

Thakur had questioned Saini’s motives for conducting the exercise, saying that the IPS officer had done phone tapping

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Photo source: PTI

Govt launches e-visa for 43 countries

iving tourism sector a significant push, the government launched the much-touted online visa facility for 43 countries including the US, Australia, Japan, Israel, Germany and Singapore. Travelers can apply for a visa from the comfort of their homes and receive it within 72 hours.

The electronic travel authorization (ETA) will be valid for 30 days and visa fee has been fixed at $62. Those traveling on leisure, short duration medical treatment, casual business visit or to meet friends and relatives will be eligible to apply. The facility will be made available at nine airports including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kochi, Goa, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Thiruvanathapuram.

Assuring safe and secure tourism for foreign tourists, home minister Rajnath Singh said, “We want to promote tourism in the country in a big way. The contribution of tourism in the GDP is approximately 7% and we want to double it.”

Other countries that are included in the first phase are Russia, Ukraine, Brazil, the

UAE, Jordan, Kenya, Fiji, Finland, South Korea, Singapore, Mauritius, Mexico, Norway, Oman and the Philippines among others. “Currently, we have included 43 countries in the first phase. Barring those who are ‘high-risk’ countries, we will extend this facility to almost every country in the world phase-wise,” Singh said.

Congratulating all those involved in the launch of e-visa system, tourism minister Mahesh Sharma said, “This is a historic day for tourism sector. The facility has opened the country to a vast world.”

Tourism secretary Lalit Panwar described the launch of e-visa as “red letter day” in tourism history. “It is going to change the tourism scenario soon,” he said.

Highlighting the importance of the scheme, Indian Association of Tour Operators President Subhash Goyal said, “We have been demanding this facility for long. The launching of e-visa system for so many countries would boost the industry and we hope foreign tourist arrivals will reach seven million mark this year.”

3rd Dec 2014 Wed

Photo source: PTI

Air India wants govt to quickly finalize next VVIP aircraft

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ir India has asked the inter-ministerial group (IMG) set up to find a replacement to the almost 25year-old Boeing 747s used to fly the president and prime minister as AI One to expeditiously reach a conclusion. The airline, which had earlier proposed Boeing 777300 extended range (ER) as a possible successor to the Jumbo Jet, is supposed to take a decision

December 2014 Edition

on three B-777s that it is supposed to shortly take delivery of from the US major.

Sources say unless the IMG decides in favor of the B-777 300 ER as the next long haul VVIP aircraft, AI will not take these planes. Instead, the airline will convert this order to the shorter range Boeing 737s or medium range 787 Dreamliners which will be commercially more beneficial to

the airline than the long haul plane which can fly nonstop to America.

“The old Boeing 747s being used today for long international flights by the PM are perfectly safe to fly but due to their advanced age, they are fuel guzzlers. Also, they can’t fly nonstop to distant places like the Americas. During the 10year-long Manmohan Singh’s prime ministerial period, the onestop flight to distant destinations

worked well as the then PM was more comfortable with a break on a long journeys. PM Modi, on the other hand, is extremely energetic and can do long journeys nonstop without any visible fatigue. So, the IMG has to now decide which plane to pick,” said a highly placed source.

A panel of secretaries of top ministries like defence, finance, aviation, external affairs, home

along with brass of the special protection group is currently deliberating whether the successor to the original queen of the skies, the B-747 Jumbo Jet, should be twin engine or four engine aircraft.

And whether, the plane should be operated and maintained by AI or Indian Air Force.

Till some time back, AI was proposing the B-777 300 ER as the successor to the Jumbo Jets.

But it has now told the IMG that the technical reliability of a twin engine plane like the B-777 versus a four-engine one like the 747 can be compared by the directorate general of civil aviation (DGCA).

AI is now awaiting a decision from the IMG so that it can accordingly decide on the delivery of the three B-777s.

The engine choice is being considered from security angle.

The directorate general of civil aviation (DGCA) will provide the technical data to showcase the reliability and safety of both twinengine and four-engine aircraft.

Indian Air Force maintains and operates a fleet of Boeing Business Jets for use by top VVIPs like President, Vice-President and Prime Minister for flying within India and to neighboring countries. “The government will decide whether the new aircraft should be with AI or IAF. If they decide in favor of the IAF, then the defence establishment will decide the successor aircraft.

Else, civil aviation authorities will take a technical call on which plane is best suited for the VVIPs,” said the source.

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Photo source: PTI

A man is never complete without a woman: Milkha Singh

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all, wiry with wrinkles lining his face, 86-yearold Milkha Singh is still the intense man who speaks his mind.

His sense of humour has the sharp edge as he talks about the women in his life.

In Hyderabad for a run, the adulation and attention that follows him, seems to have gone a notch up after the release of the biopic Bhaag Milkha Bhaag.

Did the character played by

Sonam Kapoor really exist?

“Definitely, she existed. Without a woman a man is never complete.

Big wars were fought over women.

Kingdoms were destroyed. Kings became losers. Such is the power of a special woman. Such a woman did come in my life. Those times were different.”

There was another Australian woman shown in the movie, and she too was an important part of his life. He reminisces about her, “Do

you know who she was? She was the fastest sprinter of her country Betty Cuthbert and won three gold medals.”

How they met is interesting.

Betty had never seen sardars with turbans, and once at a meet, while Milkha was sitting she point ed to his turban and asked him what it was.

“For her, I unwrapped the patka (turban). She insisted that I wrap the turban around her head, and

there I was, wrapping a blue turban around the head of this pretty Aussie woman. Later, she died of cancer, but the turban that I gave her is still kept safely in her house by her two sons. They showed it to me when I visited Australia the last time,” Milkha informs.

Secunderabad Cantonment has a special place in Milkha’s life. To improve his strength, he would race in the nights against speeding trains which left officers wondering

about the identity of the runner.

Milkha Singh smiles, “Once, I was penalised for running during nights.

It was here in Secunderabad that my guru Hawaldar Gurudev Singh asked me to race against metergauge trains in the night. Main bhi chhoti train ke saath bhaagta thha.

Raat me daud lagata thha, uss se muscles strong hote hain.” But one regret that haunts him is missing the gold medal by a whisker at the 1960 Rome Olympics.

Speaking in a language laced with Hindi and Urdu, he says that coming to Hyderabad might mean inspiring some small child about running. “Maybe another Milkha Singh will be born. In the past 60 years that I’ve run, I have not seen another Milkha Singh. Before I die, I would be happy to see another Milkha,” he says, adding, “I salute mentors like Gopichand who have given the nation talented sportspersons. The 120 million Indians need more mentors like him.”

The Flying Sikh does not seem too happy about the cricket-crazy nation that India has become.

“Every child seems to be running with a bat scoring runs. The media is to be blamed for that as so much is written and shown about this game. Other sportspersons can take a cue from cricket.” He feels that in every street and village, a sporting talent is waiting to be discovered.

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Photo source: PTI

Google rolls out ‘smart’ spoon

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oogle is throwing its money, brain power and technology at the humble spoon.

But these spoons (don’t call them spoogles) are a bit more than your basic utensil: Using hundreds of algorithms, they allow people with essential tremors and Parkinson’s disease to eat without spilling.

The technology senses how a

hand is shaking and makes instant adjustments to stay balanced. In clinical trials, the Liftware spoons reduced shaking of the spoon bowl by an average of 76 percent.

“We want to help people in their daily lives today and hopefully increase understanding of disease in the long run,” Google spokesperson Katelin Jabbari said.

Other adaptive devices have

been developed to help people with tremors — rocker knives, weighted utensils, pen grips. But until now, experts say, technology has not been used in this way.

“It’s totally novel,” said UC San Francisco Medical Center neurologist Dr Jill Ostrem, who specializes in movement disorders like Parkinson’s disease and essential tremors.

She helped advise the inventors and says the device, which has a fork attachment, has been a remarkable asset for some of her patients.

“I have some patients who couldn’t eat independently, they had to be fed, and now they can eat on their own,” she said. “It doesn’t cure the disease — they still have tremor — but it’s a very positive change.”

Google got into the no-shake utensil business in September, acquiring a small, National of Institutes of Health-funded startup called Lift Labs for an undisclosed sum.

More than 10 million people worldwide, including Google cofounder Sergey Brin’s mother, have essential tremors or Parkinson’s disease. Brin has said he

also has a mutation associated with higher rates of Parkinson’s and has donated more than $50 million to research for a cure. But the Lift Labs acquisition was not related, Jabbari said.

Lift Lab founder Anupam Pathak said moving from a small, fourperson startup in San Francisco to the vast Google campus in Mountain View has freed him up to be more creative as he explores how to apply the technology even more broadly.

His team works at the search giant’s division called Google(x) Life Sciences, which is also developing a smart contact lens that measures glucose levels in tears for diabetics and is researching how nanoparticles in blood might help detect diseases.

Joining Google has been motivating, said Pathak, but his focus remains on people who are now able to eat independently with his device.

“If you build something with your hands and it has that sort of an impact, it’s the greatest feeling ever,” he said. “As an engineer who likes to build things, that’s the most validating thing that can happen.”

Pathak said they also hope to

add sensors to the spoons to help medical researchers and providers better understand, measure and alleviate tremors.

Shirin Vala, 65, of Oakland, has had an essential tremor for about a decade. She was at her monthly Essential Tremor group at a San Ramon medical clinic earlier this year when researchers developing the device introduced the idea and asked if anyone was interested in helping them.

As it was refined, she tried it out and gave them feedback. And when they hit the market at $295 apiece, she bought one.

Without the spoon, Vala said eating was really a challenge because her hands trembled so hard food fell off the utensils before she could eat it.

“I was shaking and I had a hard time to keep the food on a spoon, especially soup or something like an olive or tomatoes or something.

It is very embarrassing. It’s very frustrating,” she said.

The spoon definitely improved her situation. “I was surprised that I held the food in there so much better. It makes eating much easier, especially if I’m out at a restaurant,” she said.

“

Catch It” will be the first India-made app to be marketed globally, its Gurgaon-based producer said.

Catch It, which enables users to share images, videos, contacts other communications, was among the six finalist apps in the first Sing Tel Group-Samsung Regional Mobile App Challenge announced yesterday.

“Catch It is designed for the global market,” Imran Ladiwala, founder and chief executive of get catchit.com said after receiving the finalist award.

Wattcost from Australia, which turns a home into the smart home of the future through enhanced internet network, won the top

December 2014 Edition

ranking in the awards.

The other four finalists were photo-collection app Jepret Story from Indonesia, game’-app Epic Life from the Philippines, travelplanner Fiuzu from Singapore and parent-teacher app for monitoring student’s school bus journey safety Nugrean from Thailand.

The challenge was organized by Singapore’s SingTel, Australia’s Optus, Airtel India and Africa, Telkomsel of Indonesia, Globe Telecom of the Philippines and AIS of Thailand in partnership with Samsung.

Over 500 app submissions were received from around the region.

Photo source: PTI

Photo source: PTI

India’s “Catch It” Online fashion commerce boosts Best seller’s 2013-14 revenue app to go global

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anish fashion niche retailer Bestseller, whose brands like Vero Moda compete with market leaders H&M and Zara, said its pre-tax profit rose 21% in 2013-2014 as it pared down on stores and boosted its internet business.

Revenues rose 5% to 20.1 billion Danish crowns ($3.4 billion) in the 2013-14 financial year while pretax profit grew to 1.7 billion crowns, the unlisted firm said late on Thursday.

Earlier this month the company said its Bestseller Retail Europe division, which runs physical stores and accounts for about 10% of its total revenue, would close every

20th store after profits for that division fell by 50%.

“Through an increased focus on our operations and through an even closer collaboration with our partners and customers, we have managed to grow and create better results in a challenging market,” chief executive Anders Holch Povlsen said.

Povlsen, son of the founder of Bestseller and Denmark’s second richest man, said the synergies between physical stores and e-commerce has become more critical than ever.

“Our goal is that the digital options available become a larger part

of Bestseller’s DNA and that the link between the physical stores and our online activities becomes even more natural,” Povlsen said in the annual report.

Bestseller has more than 3,000 stores across 38 markets worldwide and an online presence in 70 markets, with mid-market brands such as Vero Moda, Pieces, Mamalicious and high mid-market brands such as Selected Femme and Selected Homme.

Despite a solid revenue growth of 5%, the company was behind H&M and Zara, which posted growth of 9% and 8% respectively at their last annual reports.

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Make Gita the national book, Sushma says

D

uring the Bhagvad Gita Prerna Utsav on Sunday to celebrate 5151 years of Bhagwad Gita, external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj announced to thousands of people that June 21 will be celebrated as the International Day of Yoga. The formal announcement on the United Nations resolution will be made on December 11 but she claimed that 170 nations have supported PM Modi’s call for Yoga Day. Sparking controversy, she also pressed for making Bhagwad Gita the national scripture or book.

Modi in September during his visit to New York and first UN general assembly speech had proposed for an international Yoga day because “yoga provides a holistic approach to health and wellbeing” and that it is “India’s gift to the world.”

On Sunday thousands of disciples of Swami Gyananand and Global Inspiration Enlightenment Organisation Gita that organized the mass meeting at Red Fort grounds on Sunday rejoiced at Swaraj’s announcement. Swaraj said that the respect of a “national scripture” was accorded to Gita when Prime Minister Modi gifted it to US President Barack Obama during his visit in September.

“Bhagwad Gita has answers to

December 2014 Edition

everybody’s problems” and that’s why she is pushing for ‘Shrimad Bhagwad Gita’ should be declared as the national holy book, she said.

Swaraj also linked the importance of reading Gita to preventing and treating diseases like depression. “If you even read two shlokas of the Gita everyday, you can complete a substantial part of the scripture in a year,” she said urging the gathering to read the Gita regularly. The ceremony was attended by many BJP leaders like Haryana CM, Manohar Lal Khattar, culture tourism and civil aviation minister, Mahesh Sharma. There was also president of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), Ashok Singhal, Yoga guru, Baba Ramdev, other sapiritual leaders like Shankaracharya Swami Divyanand Tirth, Rameshbhai Oza from Gujarat and others.

BJP President Amit Shah had reportedly also confirmed to attend the event but didn’t turn up.

Ramdev recited two shlokas from Gita, with the crowds reciting after him. He also suggested that Gita should be declared the national scripture or book of India immediately. “PM Modi has gifted the Gita to President Obama. That’s a huge message. I think the time has come to declare it the national scripture,” he said. Mocking chil-

dren and youths who prefer fizzy drinks “Don’t eat chocolate, don’t drink toilet cleaners to lose weight.

Just do yoga and read Gita.”RSS leader Indresh Kumar said the UN should also declare Gita Divas as it is announcing June 21 as Yoga Day. The week long celebration of 5151 years of Gita started on December 2 with a puja at the same grounds by RSS chief, Mohan Bhagwat. On Sunday several chil-

dren in saffron also took a pledge to spread the message of Gita.

They also reportedly pledged for the “clean India” campaign and against drug addiction in the country. About 5151 families also performed puja and recited from the Gita according to organizers.

The ceremony was also attended by cardiac surgeon and head of Medanta, Dr Naresh Trehan who said that he learnt certain key principles of practicing medicine from

the Gita. Ambassadors of Denmark and Montenegro were also present. Mahesh Sharma said as the minister of culture he would take up popularizing Gita like an “andolan” or revolution.

While the Red Fort grounds accommodated he large crowd, traffic outside had slowed down due to the Sunday market at Daryaganj and the crowds that poured in to listen to spiritual and political leaders at the event.

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News

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Photo source: PTI

‘Item girls should be branded as prostitutes’

A

Hindu Mahasabha leader was at the centre of a controversy over his demand that actresses performing item numbers in films wearing “skimpy” outfits be branded as prostitutes, sparking an outrage.

The demand by Navin Tyagi, general secretary of the UP unit of Hindu Mahasabha, a right wing outfit, was condemned as “regressive” by political parties and the National Commission for Women (NCW).

Tyagi also sought a ban on

wearing of skirts and jeans by girl students in schools and even said they should not be allowed to carry mobile phones.

“The girls who perform item numbers in films and remove clothes should be declared prostitutes. We feel the women who

Taj Mahal is part of ancient temple

earn money by indulging in obscenity are prostitutes. They are spreading filth in society,” Tyagi said, adding he will take the matter to the Supreme Court.

National secretary of the outfit Swami Chakrapani, however, distanced himself from the con-

troversial remarks terming them as “wrong statement”.

“We do not know about it. We are seeking details,” he said.

Asked about Tyagi’s plan to take the matter to the apex court, Chakrapani said he was free to do so.

NCW chairperson Lalitha Kumaramangalam strongly condemned Tyagi’s comments and said it will examine opposing such a move if he goes to the Supreme Court. “It is the usual regressive mindset that is coming out. One can turn around and ask what would they call the men who watch these women in their so called skimpy clothes.

Anybody is welcome to go to the Supremne Court.

“But I have enough trust in the apex court to hope that they will crush and dismiss this sort of irrelevant opinion,” she said. Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said he was shocked by the comments and said it was time the society wakes up.

“I am shocked by such parochial, obnoxious organisation who in their quest to govern the society come out with such dictate which were there in 15th Century and not even true for those centuries,” he said. BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra also slammed Tyagi and said the party was for freedom of the society. “We are proud to have a culture where women have led from the front.”

TATTS / SUB NEWS AGENCY Best location near CBD area

Photo source: PTI

Well established Newsagency Situated in a strong and well established shopping strip with heavy foot area.

U

ttar Pradesh BJP chief Laxmi Kant Bajpai on Sunday sought to drag the Taj Mahal into yet another row claiming it was part of an ancient temple.

Bajpai said that Mughal emperor Shah Jahan “purchased a part of Tejo Mahalaya temple’s land from Raja Jai Singh” and claimed that he had documents to prove it still exist.

Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan had said that the famed mausoleum should be declared a property of the state’s Waqf Board.

Khan, during a convention of ‘mutawallis’ (caretakers) asked chairman of State Sunni Central Waqf Board to make Taj Mahal a property of the board and appoint him as

December 2014 Edition

‘mutwalli’.

Referring to the incident, Bajpai alleged, “Azam Khan has usurped property of Waqf and was now eyeing the world heritage Taj Mahal.” “Azam’s dream to offer namaz five times at Taj will never be fulfilled,” he said.

All India Shia Personal Law Board spokesperson, Maulana Yasoob Abbas, said, “As far as Mumtaz Mahal is concerned, she was a Shia, but Taj Mahal is heritage of the country and it should not be handed over to Sunni or Shia boards.” “ If the issue of handing Taj Mahal to the Waqf board is raised then Shia and Sunni will come face to face, therefore it should be kept away from the tussle,” he added.

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Photo source: PTI

Shashank Vyas has romanced nine actresses on Balika Vadhu

N

ormally, an actor is paired with one or two heroines in a TV show. But Shashank Vyas, who

plays Jagya in Balika Vadhu, has been paired opposite as many as seven actresses in the show so far. Reason — the

show’s ever-changing tracks and replacement of heroines.

Aasiya Kazi is the latest actress he will romance on the

show. The actress has replaced Sargun Mehta who played his wife Ganga. Geetanjali Mishra will complete the love triangle.

The latest replacements take Shashank’s tally of co-stars to nine. One might remember that Shashank was originally paired opposite Pratyusha Banerjee (Anandi) in the show.

Pratyusha was later replaced

by Toral Rasputara.

The show then introduced the character of Gauri, which was initially played by Anjum Farooki and later, by Deblina Chatterjee. Shashank was even paired with Roop Durgapal (Saanchi) who played his obsessive lover and Sriti Jha, who originally essayed the role of Ganga.

Ask him about the continuous change in co-stars and Shashank says, “It’s not funny that due to different circumstances, the Gangas and Anandis get replaced in my life. I have had to develop a romantic connect with nine heroines, which is not easy at all. Just when you have developed a comfort level with an actress, she either gets replaced or some other track comes up. I don’t agree with actors who say that they don’t talk to each other and yet develop a chemistry on the show. I can’t do that.”

A

popular face on Indian television, Ronit Roy seems to have caught the fancy of international show producers as well. We hear the actor was recently offered an important role on a hit American TV series, but he was unable to take it up.

The 49-year-old, who has done well on Indian TV as well as in films, confirms that he was approached for a role in Homeland. “It was an interesting role, but I couldn’t accept the offer as it would require me to shoot in South Africa for six

December 2014 Edition

months. It wouldn’t have been possible for me to leave things here to take it up,” he says.

Ronit reveals that when the offer came to him a few months ago, he was shooting for a film costarring Arshad Warsi, an ongoing legal drama show, and had a new show produced by Ekta Kapoor in the pipeline. “Leaving work and family for such a long stint would have been impossible for me,” he adds. Other Indians who feature on the Emmy-winning show are Nimrat Kaur and Suraj Sharma.

Photo source: PTI

Photo source: PTI

Ronit Roy turns down role in It’s not the end for KBC American TV series Homeland

J

ust a couple of days after a quiz show hosted by Amitabh Bachchan drew to a close, the grapevine was abuzz with rumours that due to the poor ratings of the show this year, there are no plans of bringing it back next year for another season. However, the producer of the show, Siddhartha Basu refutes all such claims. ”Such decisions are never taken so early. The broadcaster takes the call normally when the next season is close. So many things have to be taken into consideration. I have no information either

way,” he says.

The show that has had a run of eight seasons till now, touched popularity charts in almost all seasons. But the latest one, which ended on November 16, didn’t measure up to its part records.

Apparently, that triggered the speculation about the show’s journey coming to an end.

Basu says, “I have had no discussion on this (with the channel).

At this point, normally it’s (the future of the show) not discussed.

Meanwhile, the format is a hit in other parts of the country (in regional languages).”

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Food & Wine

indiantimes

Paneerpasta Capsicum Sabji Zucchini and cashew • • • • • • • • •

Ingredients

1 packet of pasta of your choice 4 large zucchinis 2 cups of fresh green peas 1/2 cup of finely chopped red bell peppers 1/2 cup of finely chopped yellow bell peppers 1 peeled and finely chopped carrot 1 cup of cherry tomatoes cut in quartered pieces 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh

• • • • • • • •

parsley 2 teaspoons of lemon zest Salt and pepper to taste Grated Parmesan cheese For the sauce 1 cup of raw cashews (soaked for two hours and rinsed thoroughly) 3/4 cup water 1/2 teaspoon coconut nectar 1 clove of roughly chopped garlic 1/4 cup of lemon juice

Method:

In a saucepan containing boiling water, add the pasta, salt and a couple of drops of oil. Boil them till tender.

In a large bowl, peel one cm wide strips of zucchinis so that it resembles pencil shavings. You can do so using a vegetable peeler. Add peas, bell peppers, carrots, tomatoes, basil, parsley, lemon zest, salt and pepper. Toss all these ingredients well into a salad and set aside.

Prepare the sauce by using a blender on high speed to mix cashews, water, coconut nectar, garlic and lemon juice into a smooth paste. Add a little salt.

In a serving dish, lay out the pasta. Add a layer of zucchini salad on it. Top the salad with a layer of sauce.

Garnish with the grated Parmesan cheese and serve with garlic bread.

Photo source: PTI

HIV drug may also treat macular degeneration

R

eporting their findings in the journal Science, the international team, led by researchers at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, say because of a previously undiscovered property, the drugs may also be effective against other

December 2014 Edition

inflammatory disorders.

A major cause of vision loss among the elderly, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive condition that is untreatable in up to 90% of patients. As AMD progresses, patients find their central vision becomes increasingly blurred

and they struggle to read print, recognize people’s faces and drive a car.

There are two types of AMD: dry and wet. Dry is the most common and least serious form - it progresses slowly and accounts for 90% of cases.

Wet AMD is more serious, and

without treatment can progress very quickly. It develops when abnormal blood vessels invade the retina and cause cell damage.

Several robust treatments exist for wet AMD - thanks to a detailed understanding of its molecular mechanisms, say the researchers. In contrast, there are currently no approved treatments for dry AMD. The study tested the effect of NRTIs on dry AMD in mice In this latest study, senior author Jayakrishna Ambati, professor and vice chair of Kentucky’s Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, and colleagues investigated a class of drugs known as nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs).

NRTIs are the most widely used drugs for treating HIV/ AIDS. They are thought to be effective because they target reverse transcriptase - an enzyme that is important for HIV replication.

NRTIs have been around for decades. They were originally developed and used in the 1960s to treat cancer and then, in the late 1980s, they were the first drugs to receive federal approval for the treatment of HIV/AIDS. In previous work, Prof.

Ambati’s lab had discovered the toxic molecule Alu RNA collects in the retina to cause dry AMD. Alu RNA is similar to HIV in that both need the reverse transcriptase enzyme

to complete their life cycle.

In their new study on mice with a condition similar to dry AMD, Prof. Ambati and colleagues show that several FDA-approved NRTIs stopped retinal degeneration. But they were surprised to find it was a previously unknown property of the drugs that produced the results.

They found the NRTIs blocked a type of inflammasome called NLRP3. Inflammasomes are large complexes of proteins that play a key role in innate immunity. They detect and respond to certain molecular patterns of pathogens and other damaging agents.

NRTIs blocked inflammasome independently of reverse transcriptase inhibition The authors note they found NRTIs blocked inflammasome activation even in experiments where the drugs could not block reverse transcriptase.

They also showed that NRTIs were effective in other diseases that have similar signaling pathways to the version of dry AMD they induced in the mice. This includes the wet form of AMD and graft-versushost disease, a common complication in bone marrow transplant and other types of tissue graft.

Benjamin Fowler, lead author of the study and a postdoctoral fellow in Prof. Ambati’s lab, says there could be several advantages to re-purposing NRTIs. For one, they are relatively cheap,

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travel

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Photosource: source: PTI Photo PTI

Mount Abu Hill Station

Mount Abu was once the summer resort of the Rajput royal families and later the British. It still bears the remnants of the royal patronage as is evidenced by the numerous recreation bungalows of the British and the hunting palaces of the Rajputs.The lush green trees and the colorful birds and animals make Abu one of the most beautiful hill stations in India and the only one in Rajasthan.Abu is at an altitude of 1220 meters, and is the highest point on the Aravalli range.

Photo source: PTI

Photo source: PTI

History:

The history of Mount Abu is wrapped up in legends. According to one, Mount Abu derives its name from Mount Arbud when the youngest son of Himalaya, along with the assistance of a snake called Arbud flooded the gorge in the area with water to save Shiva’s revered bull.

On a more contemporary note, the history of Mount Abu indicates that it was once under the rule of the Chauhan dynasty and later served as summer retreat for the royalty. The British too favored this region and made it their impromptu getaway from the heat and dust of Rajasthan.

In the Puranas the region has been referred to as Arbudaranya, (“forest of Arbhu”) and ‘Abu’ is a diminutive of this ancient name. It is believed that sage Vasistha retired to the southern spur at Mount Abu after following his differences with sage Vishvamitra.

Tourist attractions of Mount Abu

Set amidst lush surroundings of Aravalli hills at an altitude of 1,220 m above the sea level, Mount Abu is the only hill station in the desert state of Rajasthan. It enjoys a cool and pleasant climate all round the year with temperatures hovering between 21°-33° C during summer and between 11°-28° C during winter, offering much-needed relief from the heat and dust of Rajasthan. Besides its exceptional scenic beauty, Mount Abu is also famous for its 11-13th century Hindu and Jain temples. The most famous tourist attraction in Mount Abu, the Dilwara temples was constructed between 11th and 13th centuries AD. Sacred to Jains, they are considered masterpieces of temple architecture.

The Vimal Vasahi temple in the complex is worth mentioning as the temple took about 14 years to complete and is dedicated to Adinath, the first Jain tirthankaras. These beautifully carved temples in white marbles are dedicated to different tirthankaras. One can also see intricately carved images of female figures in dancing poses on some of the 48 pillars. Nakki Lake is a beautiful picnic spot in Mount Abu. According to the legend, the lake was created by a Hindu God using his nails, and so derives its name Nakki (nail) Lake. The lake offers breathtaking view of surrounding hills and offers ideal spot for boating.

Places To Eat in Mount Abu

Restaurants in Mount Abu serve traditional Rajasthani food. The traditional Daal-Baati-Churma is an all time favourite of tourists visiting this region. Tourists can sample good Gujarati food in this place as well.

Apart from the great local cuisine you will find enough restaurants that cater to the needs of those wanting a wider variety. Here you can enjoy South Indian, North Indian, Continental and Chinese food at lots of restaurants. Check out the small eateries at Nikki Market or try Kanak Dining Hall for delicious Gujarati food and Shere Punjab in the main bazaar area for authentic Punjabi food thats reasonably priced.

Where to Stay

Photo source: PTI

Mount Abu has accommodation options ranging from deluxe hotels to mid-rung and budget hotels. Cama Rajputana, Palanpur Palace Hotel and Connought House are good options for a comfortable stay in Mount Abu. The places to stay in mid-rung category are Jaipur House and Palace Hotel. If you are a budget traveller then choose to stay in Hotel Aradhana, Hotel Hilliock, Hotel Hilltone or Mount Regency.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Mount Abu is either during the months of February-June or in the months of SeptemberDecember, as these are the periods when the weather is pleasant enough to enjoy sightseeing and also to explore the outdoors.

In case you want to be a part of the Camel Festival then you may visit Mount Abu in the month of January.

Mount Abu experiences moderate rainfall during the monsoon season stretching from July to August end; so this is not the ideal season to explore the place.

Photo source: PTI

How to Reach

December 2014 Edition

How to Reach Mount Abu by Air The closest airport is at Udaipur (185km) or Ahmedabad about 250km from Mount Abu. How to Reach Mount Abu by Rail Abu Road is the nearest railhead, an hour’s drive away from Mount Abu and is connected to Delhi and Ahmedabad by good superfast and express trains.

How to Reach Mount Abu by Bus Easiest access to Mount Abu is by road from any city in Rajasthan or Ahmedabad in Gujarat via Udaipur.

Getting Around Mount Abu Buses, cars and jeeps all provide safe and convenient options for tourists. Auto rickshaws and bicycles are also easily available or the sake of trying something different explore the valley on horse back or while riding a horse drawn carriage.

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ASTROLOGY PREDICTIO Aries Income and properties During this year, you will become interested and gain through, works leading to customer service. May experience some intuition and prophetic dreams. But this is a period of high expenses, will spend money on expensive things or ventures, even though the earnings will be good, the high expenses will make the overall financial position difficult and increase of expenses which may even lead to borrowings from banks or friends. A kind of a suspense or indecisiveness in regard to the current situation or activities. Obstacles in regard to work or the current occupation. Possibility of a start of a new construction work or a building activity.

You will be able to buy valuable real estate properties or vehicles at cheaper prices and will be able to gain some profit from it at a letter stage.

Domestic Environment Association with new people are shown, a new person previously not much known will join the family.

Ex. a distant relative, a border, a new friend or an in-law or a person currently passing some difficult period of adjustment and you may have to help, share things or do things such as taking to doctor or undergo some troubles in order to look after the person. Difficulties in regard to properties may also a possibility.

Health Care of health should be taken, should not over strain. As the movement of Saturn in the 8th house is a bad period called “Ashtama Shani” in Vedic Astrology and currently you are passing a such period. This good time to get your horoscope checked. As there could be weakness in the body and frequent pains or aches.

Painful wound or a ache in the left side of the body specially in the left leg or arm.

Libra Income and properties The movement of Saturn in the 2nd house is a bad period called “Lagna Aerashtaka” in Vedic Astrology and currently you are passing a such period. This year denotes change of working conditions. This is a period you may think of finding a new job, a business activity or a promotion. A good time to start new ventures or apply for loans. Should be of firm views and practical in order to gain the benefits from this transit. Will get a chance to learn new things, new ideas or meet new people. Should be careful of engaging in risky activities. In such situations you should expect, high expenses but may gain small profits and less frequently. Loss of profits or decrease of income. Those may likely to get you a bad name or displeasure of superiors and change of place.

Domestic Environment Purchase of new expensive items, good food, increase of the name and fame in family and friends circle, happy long tours, to places of interest such as visit to birth place or relatives, will meet close relatives or friends whom you have not seen for a long time allowing you to renew the friendships or contacts. New additions to the family such as marriages or birth of children, pleasant functions.

Should be very patient in handling day to day affairs and matters.

Health A difficult period in regard to your health or the health of the family members or children, will be inclined to do physical exercises fitness and hygiene related activities.

Taurus Income and properties You will become a busy person during this year.

New friendships and relationships and gain through them. Financial gain and profits. May expand the business for definite profit. This year will bring Gain of money and property, fame, position, promotion, honour, and because of the increased amount of traveling, you may experience some hindrances for the normal flow of work and sleep, you need to be careful and patient when dealing with public as there could be some problems emanating from public relations or customer service or team work situations which will lead to some complaints against you.

Domestic Environment Happy long tours, to places of interest such as visit to birth place or relatives, will meet close relatives or friends whom you have not seen for a long time allowing you to renew the friendships or contacts. Possibility of your attending to activities in regard to marriage or a similar good period for a brother/sister or to a person closely associated to you. , will meet close relatives or friends whom you have not seen for a long time allowing you to renew the friendships or contacts.

Health Some what a bad period for health. You need to be careful and look after the health as the previous ailments or sicknesses such as asthma, heart burn or head pains may appear again if the health is neglected.

Scorpio Income and properties

Gemini Income and properties You will gain through profession by hard work and may receive recognition or award of some type like winning a competition or may become leader of the mass at work place. this transit brings in your way prosperity and success in undertakings through new employment opportunities. Therefore changes in career is also on the agenda during this period.

Though financially rewarding, you will find that the new income opportunities unfolded are physically demanding and tiresome with less opportunity to relax and enjoy the life.

Domestic Environment Comfortable time when compared to last year.

Will have parties of functions at home and entertain guests. Good food and entertainments. May meet friends and relatives whom you haven’t met for a long time. Trips to places of worship. Pleasure trips, new additions to family, new positions or new relationships are also a possibility during this period. Will acquire money, domestic happiness, and gain of wealth and commodities. Defeat of enemies, occasions like marriage, birth of a child, new position and status can be expected. You should be helpful to others. Should have control over self-desires, ambition and powers.

Health This is not a good period for the health of the relatives in the family or parents. You also should be careful of chest pains or back pains at this period.

Sagittarius Income and properties

Saturn’s transit over the first house is a bad period called “Lagna Aerashtaka” and people born in Libra , Scorpio and Sagittarius Lagnas are passing that period of hardships. Hence you too are now in the middle of such period, if remedies are not done then a difficult time to gain the due recognition for your efforts in the career or education, hard difficult work schedule, tiresome journeys, obstructions and delay in getting desired results, suspense and uncertainties about future, high expenses and reduced income, or else gain of wealth but loss there of as soon as gained.

Saturn is transiting the 12 th house and this is a beginning of a period called “Lagna Aerashtaka” meaning that Saturn is coming closer to you your first house and this is a period of high expenses, will spend money on expensive things or ventures, even though the earnings will be good, the high expenses will make the overall financial position difficult. You will gain through profession by hard work and may receive recognition or award of the same type or may become leader of the mass at work place this transit brings in your way prosperity and success in undertakings through new employment opportunities.

Domestic Environment Hence you need to do some remedies to remove this unfavorable influence of this current transit of planets. In that case you will gain opportunities to engage in activities related to learning new trades or subjects. Success in examinations or promotion or increased recognition in occupation. Increased corporation from the family. Help from people who live in far away places or foreign associates. Profits from the business or transactions with distant areas or foreign associates. Increased income and lands or houses etc can be gained.

Domestic Environment You need to be patient and tactful in handling domestic affairs. Otherwise this is generally a bad period in regard to the family affairs. problems in the family and possible separation from them for a period.

Will have fatigue by wearisome journeys to distant places. A bad period for a close relative and problems with relatives. Closely associated people will let you down. Though you will see some improvements in your overall situation, this is not a fully beneficial period it is something like bumpy road, good one stretch bad next few meters, and should be careful of accidents and sudden ailments.

Health As I said before you need to do remedies as this is not a very good year for Scorpio born people. Otherwise, this is a bad period in regard to the health. Small health complications can develop in to expensive, painful problems requiring frequent visits to doctors, should be careful of problems of legs specially in the left side of the body and Problems such as Arthritis or heart complications or strokes.

Health Bad period in regard to health. Feeling of weakness in the body and tiresome journeys. and accidents in journeys. Possibility of getting hemorrhoids or problems associated with back or spinal area, therefore should be very careful of what you eat and drink, Should take proper rest and sleep.

ON FOR THE YEAR 2015 Cancer Income and properties

Leo

Income and properties

During this year it is possible to get gains or get good results through writing. For an example, written examinations, Written documents, appeals, submissions motions, reports, letters, publications, advertisements ect. New work or a career line or an education is possible to be commenced, help from influential supporters or friends. Change of place or long distance travels for benefits or gains. New income opportunities or new positions or gains of prosperity. Previously neglected work projects, business ideas, educations or property developments may start with renewed vigor.

Happiness in relation to new hopes in mind, some profits from properties, an old job or a work will renew with new vigour, will be able to get gains from old properties, vehicles or recyclable materials. This is a period which will bring you some sudden fortunes, such as unexpected winnings from sport related activities or lotto ect. Good period to apply for bank loans for further development of your properties or business. Will get a chance to renovate or repair the valuable possessions belong to you, gains through legacies are also a possibility. Things to be careful during this period are, paying high fees or penalties, excessive taxes or duties, troubles from pests, thieves or people jealous of you.

Domestic Environment Help from priests or teachers or elderly peoples or relatives. A happy time with the family, success, pleasant functions, a time of peace, happiness and tranquility in the family. Happy occasions in the family and invitations to auspicious functions of friends and relatives. Purchase of new expensive items, good food, increase of the name and fame in family and friends circle, happy long tours, to places of interest such as visit to birth place or relatives, will meet close relatives or friends whom you have not seen for a long time allowing you to renew the friendships or contacts.

Domestic Environment You will also spend money for the future well being or the education of the members of the family. Some spending could be very private and done in secrecy.

Generally a period of high expenses. Possibility of getting involved in legal affairs or proceeding or paying fees, stamp duties or other fares or fees. You need to be patient and tactful in handling relationship matters both within and the outside of the family at this period, in such case domestic bliss, all round cooperation and happiness can be the reward from your loved ones and associates, victory over opponents and pleasant functions such as marriage or romantic situations parties are also the likely outcomes.

Health Health wise this is a good period for you but should be careful about stress related complications such as loosing of weight and weakness in the body , it is also likely that you may learn a bad news regarding a close associate or a friend of yours, which will bring sadness to you.

Capricorn Income and properties This is a very good period coming after a period of difficulties and hardships and at last you can relax and enjoy the Success and the results of the hard work you had been doing for a long time.

Previous work, as well as newly starting works will bring good and desired results, your cherished desires will be fulfilled bring you prosperity fame and good income or profits. Income from properties or earth such as real estate, building activities, or lands. Purchase of new properties or engaging in new careers business. Help from superiors or people in responsible or influential positions.

Health You may hear some bad news about the health of a loved one in the family. Some sort of climatic changes or unsuitable food or drinks can case illness for a number of people in the family at once therefore taking unfamiliar food should be avoided as much as possible. .

Aquarius Income and properties Saturn transiting the 10th House brings in your way prosperity and success in undertakings through new employment opportunities. Therefore changes is career is on the agenda during this period. Though financially rewarding, you will find that the new income opportunities unfolded are physically demanding and tiresome with less opportunity to relax and enjoy the life. This is a period which will bring you some sudden fortunes, such as unexpected winnings from sport related activities or lotto ect.

Domestic Environment A fortunate period as happiness at home can be expected. Domestic happiness, good food, marriage or similar auspicious occasions and enjoyments. Good time for functions such as marriage ceremonies or family gatherings. New additions to the family such as birth of children and marriages in to the family. Will meet attractive people of opposite sex. Good food and comforts.

An opportunity to engage in social activities or hold positions in societies can come up.

Domestic Environment You need to be patient and tactful in handling relationship matters both within and the outside of the family at this period, in such case domestic bliss, all round cooperation and happiness can be the reward from your loved ones and associates, victory over opponents and pleasant functions such as marriage or romantic situations parties are also the likely outcomes. Will get a chance to renovate or repair the valuable possessions belong to you, gains through legacies are also a possibility. Things to be careful during this period are, paying high fees or penalties, excessive taxes or duties, troubles from pests, thieves or people jealous of you.

Health This is not a good period for the health of the elderly relatives in the family or parents. You also should be careful of chest pains or back pains at this period.

Health Some sort of climatic changes or unsuitable food or drinks can case illness for a number of people in the family at once therefore taking unfamiliar food should be avoided as much as possible.

Virgo

Income and properties Good period to start a new business or an education. The properties or business activities or education you lost or neglected can be reclaimed again or will start again with a new vigor. Will learn new things and meet new people who will help and advice you. May get profits or income from the properties. You may be able to save some money and the bank balances may improve. May get a new position or will move in to a new place.

Domestic Environment Happy times with the family, but relations with the partners or spouse can get estranged due to hastiness or quick anger which could tarnish your image and give you a bad name and rob your peace of mind or have to undertake tiresome long and lonely travels at night or fear from thieves. May have to live in a frightened manner in suspense. Therefore the patience needs to be cultivated at this period in order to gain the happiness in the domestic front. If you are currently living in a distant place from the home or your birth place, then there is a fair chance that you will return home during the second half of this period for a visit. The properties or positions you left their can be reclaimed again. May get new associates or friends with whom you may have long term connections.

Health Health wise a good period too. But, in relation to health this is a bad period for the mother or a relative from the mother’s side.

Pisces Income and properties Obstacles in regard to work or the indecisiveness about the current situation will be removed and the work or the activities which were in suspense will renew with new vigor, promotions or engagement in new activities or relationships. Income or the position will be improved and gain of profits from work or the business activities. Government or employers favour and good cooperation. Defeat of enemies, increased property, gain of knowledge, favour from superiors and success.

Domestic Environment Meeting of new friends, purchase of new clothes or expensive household items, gain if new properties, participation in the sport related activities or gains from those. Recognition for the work or endeavors, Auspicious occasions, meeting of attractive members of opposite sex or romantic involvements. New additions to the family such as the birth of children in the family or marriages or similar auspicious occasions in the family, pleasurable trips or tours. But while you are experiencing the above said good results, you may feel less confident in facing day to day tasks and would prefer to lie down and enveloped in endless process of thinking of future and what things may lay ahead, feeling of tiredness or laziness of the body resulting from some sort of a fear that may cross your mind from time to time.

Health A sort of feeling loneliness or weakness of the body and mind may start to reflect in your appearance, you may look pale and weak, pimples or rashes may appear from time to time, pains of unexplained nature or hard to find a reason for the cause of pain can make you worried.

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aran Johar seems to be on a movie announcement spree and will be busy constantly switching roles as a director, producer and actor. While he will be making a full-fledged debut as an actor with Anurag Kashyap’s Bombay Velvet, he will be directing Ae Dil Hai Mushkil with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Ranbir Kapoor and Anushka Sharma in the lead. And now, he has announced yet another film titled Kalank, which Karan will be producing under his banner

Dharma Productions.

Kalank will be directed by Abhishek Varman, who directed 2 States for the same banner. In fact, the film in question is said to have an emotional connect with Karan Johar, since his father Yash Johar was the one who conducted research on the subject of this film.

Dealing with human emotions, Kalank is a period love story which tries to find its identity amidst the dangerous political situation during Partition. Also, from what we

hear, Yash Johar had even visited Lahore for the film and it has been his dream to see the film come to life. However, it is being said that Karan Johar, after the death of his father, could not bring himself to direct it and when Abhishek expressed his wish to do a period drama, the generous producer immediately offered him this plot to develop.

The film is under pre-production currently and the cast is not yet finalized.

Deepika to play a Bengali for the first time

D

eepika Padukone is going to play a Bengali for the first time. She is all set to play the role of a Bengali in her upcoming film Piku.

She has currently started work on Piku and she recently shot in Kolkata for part of the film. Deepika was mesmerized by the city and its old world charm. She explored the city as and when she could and even interacted with the locals to know more about the city.

In fact, the ace actress even tried to learn Bengali and picked up a few words of the

Picture source: lightscamerabollywood

Picture source: lightscamerabollywood

Karan Johar signs Abhishek Varman to direct Kalank

language.

Deepika is the only actress in recent times to do such different roles. She has played various roles in her career and has proved her mettle by being diverse each time. The actress does not shy away from trying something new; be it her role as a south Indian in Chennai Express or a Goanese girl in Finding Fanny. Deepika flawlessly plays each character with a lot a lot of grace and ease.

Deepika is currently shooting in Delhi for Piku with Amitabh Bachchan and Irrfan Khan.

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Shraddha wants dad Shakti to be Guinness World Record holde

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ctress Shraddha Kapoor, daughter of actor Shakti Kapoor, roots for a certificate from Guinness World Records for her father as she feels he has done over

December 2014 Edition

700 films, which in itself is “unusual” and “worthy” of being lauded.

“My father has done more than 700 films so actually he should get a place in Guinness

World Records. I think I should speak to their officials about it,” Shraddha said here at an event.

“My father has done 700 plus films. It is very unusual. He

should definitely get a certificate from Guinness World Records,” she added. Shakti, 56, is known for his villainous as well as comical roles in Hindi filmdom, of which he has been

part of for over three decades.

He’s one of the few Bollywood actors who played the stereotype Bollywood negative roles with a comic touch with equal finesse.

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Facts are facts and will not disappear on account of your likes.

Jawaharlal Nehru

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ctors Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Kajol are set to make Bollywood comebacks next year. Interestingly, they’re defying the age-old Bollywood stereotype that marriage — and having babies — means that your acting career is more or less over.

Ash (who will be seen in Karan Johar’s Ae Dil Hai Mushkil and Sanjay Gupta’s Jazbaa), and Kajol (whose comeback film will be produced by Ajay Devgn) are the latest on a list of Bollywood moms who are reviving their career.

Madhuri Dixit Nene and Juhi Chawla were seen in Gulaab Gang this year. The former starred in Dedh Ishqiya as well. Raveena Tandon is also set for a comeback, with Shab and Bombay Velvet lined up for release in 2015.

Commenting on the change of perception about mothers on the big screen, trade analyst Komal Nahta says, “Nowadays, if filmmakers have a subject for an actress who is married and may have kids, they don’t mind approaching her. Being a mother is no longer an impediment.”

December 2014 Edition

Film-maker Pradeep Sarkar, who recently worked with married actor Rani Mukerji in Mardaani, puts things in perspective. “The perception is fading because our actresses are no longer just heroes’ love interest, or eye candy. It’s more about character-oriented roles these days,” he says.

Having said that, Bollywood mothers insist that kids will remain their first priority. “If I go on signing films, I’ll have no time. My kids are really young and my first priority will always be my family. I’m not in the rat race to prove myself anymore,” Raveena said. She reportedly refused to enact kissing scenes in Shab. Her reasoning was that she didn’t do them at the peak of her career either.

According to exhibitor-distributor Akshaye Rathi, exposure to cinema from around the world has also played a part in this change.

He says, “ We have perpetually maturing audiences who know that if they are watching a film, it’s only about the character and not the ‘real’ actor. And we, as a moviegoing nation, have matured a lot, thanks to global exposure.”

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Bollywood moms make comebacks, with a bang

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astrology

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Monthly Astrology - December 2014 popular in your friends’ circle. Some of your ambitions may be realized and you may have new acquisitions that will add to your comfort. However, your enemies can give you some troubles but you will be able to overcome them. Your servants/ employees could cause your annoyance and you may suffer from some digestion problems. You should take every possible care for avoiding quarrels and conflicts; you should not get entagled in any Lawsuit also. Your health needs much more care and you should be very cautious while driving as you will be prone to sustain injuries and suffer blood-loss.

Aries – Mesha During the period you will enjoy good material prosperity and you may have some journeys in connection with your profession. However the relationships with your associates may come under strain. You may have to face problems as your secret enemies will be actively working against you for tarnishing your image. You should remain on the alert and leave no scope for this otherwise you may have a setback at the close of the period. Your health might be somewhat affected and expenses may considerably increase which could keep you tense. Doing remedies such as Navagraha Shanthi Poojas or religious blessings are good.

Taurus – Vrushabha

Cancer – Kataka

You will be fortunate in respect of romantic liaisons You will form new relationships and make new deals. Journeys to distant places and contacts/ collaborations with foreigners will be fruitful. You will be moving in high circles and become more influential. You will have new acquisitions and precious adornments which will increase your satisfaction. You will have a pleasant time to enjoy the luxury and comforts of life. You may have some costly acquisitions which will increase your satisfaction and raise your social status. All your efforts during the period will bear fruit and contribute to your progress. You will receive favours from your superiors and secure betterment in career.

Gemini – Mithuna

You may be benefited by receiving a windfall quite unexpectedly. You will form new friendships and will become very

For Cancer Lagna people the Saturn’s transit occurring this month denotes a beginning of a 2 years long good period in relation to career development as well as income. You will have success in all your endeavours and may have gains from various sources.

You may have good gains from a new venture and also from prudent investments.

Some of your ambitions will be realised and you may secure a lucrative promotion that offers liberal perquisites as well. In academic persuits also you would gain distinction.

You will be fortunate in respect of romantic liaisons. Your family-life will be joyful and happy; some of your children could be a source of pride. You may have journeys in connection with your profession which will

be fruitful.

Leo –Simha

You will become very courageous and will conquer your difficulties. You will be victorious in conflicts.

By putting forward your endeavours in a proper manner and by facing situations with confidence, you will make excellent progress in your professional sphere and will have boosted earnings. You will receive favours from authorities and form new relationships. You will become very popular in your

circle of acquaintances and your social status will be considerably improved. You may have good gains from a new ventures or new career opportunities and also from prudent investments. Some of your ambitions will be realised and you may secure a lucrative promotion that offers liberal perquisites as well. In academic pursuits or education also you would gain distinction.

Virgo – Kanya

This is a favorable position. Your popularity will be high and you will form new relationships. In academic pursuits or education also you would gain distinction. The relationships with your co-borns and neighbours will become very cordial. You may have pleasant short-trips and excursions.

Your interest in art and music will increase and you may acquire an object of art or a music system. Your family- life will be joyful and happy. In professional sphere the goings-on will be smooth and progressing. You may receive favors from a person of an authoritative or influential position .

Your earnings will increase as you may have gains

from newer avenues as well.

Libra – Tula

You may become virtuous and talented, wealthy and famous. You will improve your position by being industrious and through the assistance of influential persons. You may have pleasant shorttrips and excursions. Your interest in art and music will increase and you may acquire an object of art or a music system. Your family-life will be joyful and happy. Dealing in land, buildings, building construction materials and agricultural implements could fetch you good returns. How ever you need to be vigilant as you may suffer losses because of theft and as a result of actions of enemic people for which you are to remain careful and cautious.

You may have some gains through your writings and by offering consultations.

Scorpio – Vruschika

You will enjoy good health and so will do the other members of the family. Your family-life will be blissful and bright with happiness.

Your earnings will receive a boost and you will have new acquisitions which will improve your living condition and increase your satisfaction. Your relationships with relatives and friends will improve. In professional sphere, things will be in your favour during this period. You will secure favours from persons of rank and authority, besides enjoying many other benefits. Opportunities will come your way and you will make timely use of them in a prudent way. Socially you will gain more popularity and prestige.

Sagittarius – Dhanu

You will be happy and cheerful. You will have many opportunities and will receive favours from superiors. Your career- prospect and your financial position will also be considerably improved. You will have a pleasant and enjoyable time in company of the people of opposite sex. You will socialize more and form new friendships with joyous people.

Your family-life will be happy and enjoyable.

You will be in good health and so will be the other members of your family. Your relationship with the people in general will improve and your popularity will increase. The period is now ripe for investing endeavours that will lead to betterment in career.

Capricorn – Makara

You will have a large circle of acquaintances but will have intimacy with a limited few. You will attach more importance to intellectual level for which you will have a few friends among learned people. You might be attracted to speculations and acquire addictive bad habits which you should try to avoid by excercising willforce. Your earnings will increase but there could be wide fluctuations. You will have journeys to distant places and may opt for staying in distant places too; your relationship with mother or maternal relations may deteriorate which may prompt

Readers please note that the below predictions are given according to North Indian tradition of Hindu Vedic Astrological methods, using your Lagna as the base. you to do so.

Aquarius – Kumbha

You will have success in your endeavors and may have gains from various sources. You may have good gains from a new venture and also from prudent investments. Some of your ambitions will be realized and you may secure a lucrative promotion or success in exams that offers liberal perquisites as well. In academic pursuits also you would gain distinction. You will be fortunate in respect of romantic liaisons. Your family- life will be joyful and happy; some of your children could be a source of pride. You may have journeys in connection with your profession which will be fruitful. You will have success in all your endeavors and may have gains from various sources. You may have good gains from a new venture and also from prudent investments.

Pisces - Meena

Your earnings will improve and you will have gains from various sources. You will win the appreciation of your superiors and will be favoured with a lucrative promotion. Your name and fame will be widespread and your social popularity will considerably increase. You will form new relationships and have many admirers in your friends’ circle . You may have new acquisitions which will improve your lifestyle. You may be benefited by receiving a windfall quite unexpectedly. You will form new friendships and will become very popular in your friends’ circle.

Some of your ambitions may be realised and you may have new acquisitions that will add to your comfort. You may spend a lot for having some renovations done to your house-building.

If you wish to know the difference between Eastern & Western Astrology you are invited to visit http://jyotisha.00it.com/Difference. htm

Monthly Predictions for December 2014 By Lakshman Abeykoon - Noble Park, VIC 3174 - Phone (03) 9548 1613 - http://jyotisha.00it.com

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Journeying From Desire To Dispassion

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central theme running through Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra is that of pratyahara, that is, withdrawal of the mind from its scattered externality to interiorising it and focusing it upon the very origin of thought. And while Patanjali details several practical steps to initiate this withdrawal, like yama-

December 2014 Edition

niyama, svadhyaya and satsang, he emphasises the need for vairagya or dispassion as the crucial prerequisite temperament to be developed for pratyahara .

Real and momentary The distinction between real and momentary, vairagya is repeatedly emphasised in vedanta. It is said that even Brahmana-vichara, the

enquiry into the Self and all yogic practices are rendered redundant if the mind has not yet fully turned away from all externals, and real vairagya is absent. Sages state that most people go through a sort of momentary phase of dispassion arising out of personal disillusionment with a situation, but they are unable to sustain

this attitude for long, especially when faced with external charms of wealth, beauty, position and fame.

Then there are those who hypnotise themselves into believing that this ‘accidental’ vairagya is the real state of renunciation, and renunciation itself becomes a means to seek the same external vanities. Real vairagya, sages say, can only arise when there is genuine inner discrimination developed through vichara, to be able to distinguish between the outer ‘glamorous drama’ that is transient at best, and the witness-Self which is beckoning to a dimension beyond the transitory.

A vicious cycle It is this real vairagya that Bhartihari alludes to in his classic work ‘Vairagya-Shatakam, Hundred Verses on Renunciation, where he points out how, despite the transitory nature of the world staring us in the face -whether it is death or disease, old age or deceit -- we continue to desire and continue to want endlessly, trapping ourselves in a vicious cycle of pleasure and pain. Nothing seems to stop us from desiring more, Bhartihari says, and this arises from our wrong notion of what is real and permanent.

In perceiving outer empirical reality as the only reality, and in

perpetuating this notion, we keep desiring external ‘enjoyments’ and become addicted to them.

Desire begets more desire and triggers a self-consuming ‘mindreality,’ desperate to possess just that bit more, be it riches, fame or position. This play of the mind keeps defining an identity for us, which inevitably makes us dissatisfied and restless. The true yoga practitioner tries to reverse this notion through pratyahara and vairagya.

Intense vairagya What vairagya also does not entail is to go to the other extreme, of the abnegation of social responsibilities by running away on a whim. If the mind is not disciplined enough, the same desires will follow the mind even in the most secluded of spots. The path of a Buddha or Shankara must be taken only when the seeker has developed intense vairagya, a state of total disregard for all material things; not merely momentary disenchantment.

Vedanta states that the mind itself must be used as an enquiring tool, to probe deeper into the purpose of life, journeying beyond the visual-auditory-sensory matrix of impressions. What is required is a discriminating mind that is able to distinguish between the essential and the perishable, even as one goes about one’s duties in life.

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PK

Director: Rajkumar Hirani Aamir Khan, Anushka Sharma, Boman Irani, Saurabh Shukla and Sanjay Dutt

A

fter the phenomenal success of 3 Idiots, Vinod Chopra Films and Rajkumar Hirani Films this time in association with UTV Motion Pictures present the most awaited film of the year, PK. A stranger in the city asks questions no one has asked before.

Known only by his initials, PK’s innocent questions and childlike curiosity will take him on a journey of love, laughter and letting-go. The films stars Aamir Khan, Anushka Sharma, Boman Irani, Saurabh Shukla, Sushant Singh Rajput and Sanjay Dutt and is due to release on December 19th, 2014.

P. K. is a comedy of ideas about a stranger in the city, who asks questions that no one has asked before. They are innocent, childlike questions, but they bring about catastrophic answers. People who are set in their ways for generations,

are forced to reappraise their world when they see it from PK’s innocent eyes. In the process PK makes loyal friends and powerful foes.

Mends broken lives and angers the establishment. P. K.’s childlike curiosity transforms into a spiritual odyssey for him and millions of others. The film is an ambitious and uniquely original exploration of complex philosophies. It is also a simple and humane tale of love, laughter and letting-go. Finally, it is a moving saga about a friendship between strangers from worlds apart.

P.K. is a story of an alien who comes to earth to meet a prostitute with a heart-of-gold and changes the opinion of humans on the existence of God. The alien is supposedly played by Aamir Khan and the prostitute by Anushka Sharma. Also the film will have

Picture source: lightscamerabollywood

Cast:

important characters portrayed by Sanjay Dutt and Sushant Singh Rajput.

Now all we can do is wait till Mr Perfectionist opens up about

the story plot. The film is all set to hit theatres on December 19, which happens to be Aamir Khan’s favourite week.

Sunny’s comic side in Kuch Kuch Locha Hai

Picture source: lightscamerabollywood

K

December 2014 Edition

uch Kuch Locha Hai, directed by Devang Dholakia, has an unconventional lead pair in the form of Sunny Leone and Ram Kapoor. Presented by Alumbra Entertainment and Media Pvt Ltd, the film was previously titled Patel Rap. “It’s a spicy, sexy comedy with Ram and Sunny in never-before-seen avatars. As far as the title change is concerned, the film’s essence is enunciated through this title without giving away too much about the plot. Also, our movie is full of hilarious lochas,” says the director.

Produced by Magic Pictures and Entertainment Pvt Ltd and Maximus Multimedia Pvt Ltd, the film is currently being shot in Malaysia. About being cast in the comic caper, Sunny says, “I’m elated to be working with Devang again. Ram is a revelation to work with and shares valuable acting tips with me.” States Ram, “During the film’s narration, I was falling off the seat with laughter. I love taking up subjects that people can relate to.” Says producer Mukesh Purohit, “Ram plays a rich Gujarati businessman and Sunny, a famous film star. The situations they find themselves in, lead to funny moments.

The director is a Gujarati and he has brought alive the quirks of a typical dysfunctional family from the community.”

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Punjabi cinema not just about ‘balle balle’

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unjabi filmmaker Manjeet Mann, who co-produced National Award-winning film “Shaheed-e-Mohabbat Boota Singh”, says there are movies from her state that are rich in content too.

During a session titled “Cinemas of India - Punjabi cinema” at the Film Bazaar, which concluded here Monday, she talked about the common misconception when

it comes to Punjabi movies.

“Punjabi cinema is not just about ‘balle balle’. I like to make films on true stories and most of them are tragedies,” said the director of “Sukhmani - Hope for Life”.

Anurag Singh, who has directed hit Punjabi films like “Jatt and Juliet” and “Punjab 1984”, agreed with her, but said the majority is just “slapstick comedy”.

“This year around 42 films released and 80 percent of those films are similar. They are all comedies, that too slapstick. So, the audience will ultimately get bored of it. We need to make more movies with strong content to make the industry grow,” he said.

Distributor Munish Sahni, who was also one of the panelists, believes the “technicians need to be more professional”.

“The Punjabi film industry is unorganised. Many people assume distribution is just a part time job, but it’s not,” he said.

The other challenge Punjabi filmmakers face is getting satellite rights. ”There are hardly 4-5 local channels that play more of Punjabi songs than movies. So, there is not much support from satellite. Music companies also don’t

pay us as they say physical sale of music doesn’t take place. That is not true because you can’t run a company if you are not earning profit,” said Anurag Singh.

They, however, said they get good business from overseas.

“At least 50 percent of the money is recovered from overseas,” Sahni said, adding that Canada is a strong market for Punjabi cinema.

“Bajrang Bhaijaan is not about love jihad” - Kabir Khan

Picture source: lightscamerabollywood

F

December 2014 Edition

ilmmaker Kabir Khan who for the first time in his career has two overlapping films underproduction is appalled by the suggestion that his new Salman Khan starrer Bajrangi Bhaijaan is about ‘love jihad.’

Says Kabir angrily, “Everyone on the internet has an opinion these days. And a lot of opinions were expressed against my doing this film because it was supposedly about love jihad.

First of all, I don’t understand what ‘love jihad’ is. So why and how would I be making a film on the theme? Secondly, even if I was I wouldn’t stop just because some people don’t like what I am doing.”

Kabir has in the past courted controversy and condemnation by doing hard-hitting politicallydriven films like Kabul Express and New York.

He admits Bajrangi Bhaijaan is more in the commercial space than the raw real political films that Kabir Khan is identified with, “Salman has a staunch core audience. Films starring him have to adhere to the commercial language. So yeah, this one is my masala film, and I make no bones about it. This is a film with lip-sync songs and

dancing. When I was writing the film I saw the characters singing.

This hasn’t happened in my other films.”

There are no lip-sync songs in Kabir’s other film on release Phantom. “That is a more real raw and authentic film. Though Pritam has done the music there is no lip-sync song in Phantom.

Saif and Katrina do not play characters whom I saw singing on screen” Kabir is all praise for Saif, “Though he is known for his strong presence in sitcoms he has been brilliant in other genres, like Omkara. I think Saif is an optimum blend of star and actor. He tends to submerge his own personality in whatever character he plays.”

The two films will be released in 2015 within three months of one another.

Kabir admits he is nervous about the double bill next year.

“This is two-and a-half years of my life. I’ve never done two overlapping projects. But there was no choice. The date for the release of Bajrangi Bhaijaan was locked in when the project came to me.

It was planned as Salman’s 2015 Eid release. Phantom would’ve come much earlier than its current April 2015 release

schedule. But the shooting got extended because Katrina’s previous film (Bang Bang) took longer than expected.”

Luckily for Kabir the two films are poles apart in theme content and intent.

Protests Kabir, “I won’t say Phantom and Bajrangi Bhaijaan are apart in intent-they’re both big-budget films-but yes, the content of the two is very different.

Also, the treatment. Phantom is a politically-driven thriller, whereas Bajrangi Bhaijaan has a full-on masala mood to it, though I must admit this one too has a strong statement to make.”

Kabir hates using the word ‘message’ for his film. “It’s very pompous of any filmmaker to think he can tell audiences how to lead their lives. But yes, my films would always have a strong political and social context even when it is a masala product like Bajrangi Bhaijaan.”

The title seems to suggest a secular thought-process.

Kabir isn’t giving away the plot. “The title Bajrangi Bhaijaan is not random. It most certainly has relevance. The film is very pertinent to what is happening in the country today. At the same time it my most massy film to date.”

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New co-stars for leading men of Bollywood

few days back, Akshay Kumar shot for an emotional song for his next.

However, instead of an A-lister, a fresh face, Madhurima Tuli, was romancing him. In the next few months, like Madhurima, a wave of fresh talent is set to sweep Bollywood as a number of new faces - most of them models - are preparing to make their presence felt in the Hindi film industry.

While Pooja Hegde, a former beauty pageant contestant, who took up acting down south, will be seen opposite Hrithik Roshan in Ashutosh Gowariker’s Mohenjo Daro, ex-beauty queen Manasvi Mamgai will share screen space with Ajay Devgn in Prabhudheva’s Action Jackson.

“It’s very comforting to be launched with a big star because then you are assured of a great launch pad. Plus, you don’t have to worry about how you will be portrayed and marketed; you don’t even have to fret over the film’s release,” explains Manasvi, adding, “But at the same time, there’s the pressure to live up to the star’s reputation.”

Manasvi isn’t the only one who is feeling the pressure. Ridhima Sud, who has been the face of several big brands in the past, will be seen in Zoya Akhtar’s Dil Dhadakne Do in several scenes with Ranveer Singh. Plus, Earlier, Salman Khan had mentioned that he will soon cast Greek-Swedish model, Elli Avram in a film. Not just that, the daughter of yesteryear actors, Shaheen and Sumeet Saigal - Sayesha (the grandniece of Saira Bano) - will also make her debut in Ajay’s directorial venture, Shivaay.

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Big actors feel that debutant actors should be given a chance to prove their mettle.

While Akshay Kumar feels “they all deserve a chance to prove their worth”, Ashutosh Gowariker finds Pooja a “very natural” actor who has “an elegance and poise,” which “with a degree of freshness adds the required spark to our film’s love

story”. Akshay puts things in perspective. “I know what it’s like to start out with nothing. I don’t focus on each film being the best only for me, but for all those who work in it with me,” he says. Industry members feel that while newer actors are a source of freshness and are easier to work with, they also shake off the complacency of established

actors. “It’s always good to have more actors to choose from. It keeps the established ones on their toes in terms of healthy competition. Also, it’s easier to work with new people because they don’t come with any baggage,” says director Anees Bazmee.

Maintaining a good demand and supply ratio is integral too.

Exhibitor-distributor Akshaye Rathi has a logical argument.

“Bollywood churns out over 400-odd films per year. And even if our big names work 365 days and 24x7, they won’t be able to work in so many films.

So, in order to maintain the demand and supply rate, we have to constantly introduce and work with newcomers,” he says.

Dara Singh’s book to be introduced in schools

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he practicalities and strengthbased approaches that the late actor-turnedpolitician Dara Singh imbibed during his lifetime will now enrich young lives.

Recently, while celebrating Dara Singh’s 86th birthday in Jhulana village in Ghusai Kheda, Haryana, it was decided to introduce his book— Meri Aatam Katha — as part of the school curriculum under moral education.

His elder son Vindu Dara Singh alongwith the MP of Bhiwani, Dharambir Singh were present to release the book. Vindu tweeted after the function, “Thank you to Shri Dharambir singh ji MP of Bhiwani for launching of Meri Aatmakatha a book by dad on school morals.”

Dharambir Singh told us, “We are reading the book, and soon we will forward the proposal to concerned

December 2014 Edition

departments.” He hinted that the process will be completed soon, and important subjects like his teachings, observations, hardships in life will feature prominently in the syllabus.

Dara Singh, who expired on July 12, 2012, shared a close bond with Haryana. “I went there to interact with budding wrestlers,” said Vindu. Sharing his happiness, an emotional Vindu added, “It’s a great honour to see dad’s book making it to the school education.”

On wrestling, which has seen a lot of pehelwans from Haryana making the nation proud, Vindu said, “Earlier wrestlers used to hail from Punjab. Now sportsmen and wrestlers from Haryana are taking the centre stage in Olympics, Asian Games and other national games. I am really happy about it.”

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Eventograph photographs from latest B-Town Events

Radhika Apte at Badlapur Trailer Launch

Dinesh Vijan and Sriram Raghavan at Badlapur Trailer Launch

Rasika Duggal on Screening of Film Sulemani Keeda

Anjana Sukhani at Premiere of Bhopal A Prayer for Rain

December 2014 Edition

Divya Dutta at Badlapur Trailer Launch

Ajay Devgn at Action Jackson Promotional Shoot

Sonakshi Sinha at Action Jackson Promotional Shoot

Amrita Rao on Screening of Film Sulemani Keeda

Huma Qureshi and Varun Dhawan at Badlapur Trailer Launch

Himansh Kohli on Screening of Film Sulemani Keeda

Illa Arun at Premiere of Bhopal A Prayer for Rain

Preeti Jhangiani at Premiere of Bhopal A Prayer for Rain

Ranvir Shorey at Screening of Film Sulemani Keeda

Razak Khan on Screening of Film Sulemani Keeda

Kal Penn and Fagun Ivy Thakrar at Premiere of Bhopal A Prayer for Rain

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Eventograph photographs from latest B-Town Events

Randeep Hooda at press-meet-to-promote-ungli-12

Ileana D’Cruz at Happy Ending Premiere

Emraan Hashmi at press-meet-to-promote-ungli-12

Saif Ali Khan and Govinda at Happy Ending Premiere

Natalia Kozhenova at Melody Film Launch

Shweta Khanduri and Ramji Gulati at Melody Film Launch

December 2014 Edition

Mukesh Tiwari at Zed Plus Press Meet

Jugnu Ishique at Melody Film Launch

Aditya Singh Rajput at Melody Film Launch

Krishika Lulla at Happy Ending Premiere

Mona Singh at Zed Plus Press Meet

Jasveer Kaur at Melody Film Launch

Smita Gondkar at Melody Film Launch

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bollywood music

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hough Javed Ali practically insists, as always, on singing exactly like Sonu Nigam, the two songs he gets in this film, ‘Minnat Karta Hu’ (the last word should be phonetically spelt ‘hoon’ but we guess it’s too much expect in today’s ‘chalta hai’-anything goes times!) and ‘Bandgi Tum Meri’ are among the best songs he has got in recent times.

Sonu-mimicking apart, Javed sings them well, and the lyrics (Rashid Kanpuri and Omraj Pandey Om respectively) are standard but well-written.

This is - as far as we know Aryan R. Jaiin’s debut film as a composer, and while both the songs merge old-fashioned melody well with contemporary flavours, the former, ‘Minnat…’, stands out as a lovely and (for today’s era) fairly intricate composition that haunts for a long while after it is over, so much so that ‘Bandgi…’ has to be heard separately to judge its own merits.

‘Ishq Barsa Re’ (Sonu KakkarNishad Mishra) gets into familiar Oriental terrain, with apart Arabic instrumentation providing a piquant touch to the standards beats, rhythms, and typically West Asian choral and backing vocal nuances. This heightened flavour has not been tasted in a long while in our film music and that alone brings a refreshing touch, as the last recall-worthy song with this tenor was ‘Kaho Na Kaho’ from Murder a decade ago! Sonu is alright and Nishad is correctly in the background.

‘Nasamajh Tum’ (Shaan) is a familiar and layered tune that reeks of the work the singer has

Life Mein Twist Hai

Picture source: lightscamerabollywood

Music Review :

done with Sajid-Wajid. The singer is in weighty form and the nice lyrics (Rashid Kanpuri-Aryan R Jaiin) and old-world dholakbased orchestration creates a wonderful aura in these days of cacophonous overseas beats. It is refreshing to hear such placid melodies in today’s frenetically rhythmic times.

The two remaining songs are the necessary compromise even the best of talents have to make in today’s ambience of songs being short-term commodities for consumption rather than long-lasting endearing friends. ‘Balam Bambai Ko’ is complete with raunchy lyrics and singing and orchestral gimmicks.

Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.

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Aishwariya Rai’s photo taken by Guruswamy at Taj Palace New Delhi, 1994

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Still Photography for all events including weddings, corporate functions, outdoor events and much more.

CONTACT: Guruswamy Mob: 0406 820 413

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‘Munh se kuch na keh gaye / Padosi ko chaabi de gaye’ is the brazen sexual innuendo in this item number with apt rural orchestration. Mamta Sharma brings in the clichéd style of such songs (like in ‘Munni Badnaam Hui’ and more) with some minimum support from the composer singing as well. The lyrics (Omraj Pan-

dey Om) are a shade confused though, with the girl addressing her sweetheart (who has gone to Mumbai already!) and we have to see if they have to fit the visuals instead.

Overall: One ‘wow’ lead track makes the album shine in a way.

Latest Latest TopTen Ten Top Music Music #1 #2 #3 #4 #5 #6 #7 #8 #9 #10

Manwa Laage Manali Trance Kill Dil Mileya Mileya Dance Basanti Jaise Mera Tu G Phaad Ke Tharki Chokro Superman Lovely

Happy New Year The Shaukeensr Kill Dil Happy Ending Ungli Happy Ending Happy Ending PK Tevar Happy New Year www.indian-times.com.au

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The censors object to Ajay Devgn mouthing the word ‘Temple’

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hough the new eagerlyawaited Ajay Devgn action-dance film Action Jackson has been cleared by the Censor Board Of Film Certification (CBFC) with a ‘UA’ certificate-which means Prabhu Dheva and Ajay Devgn’s young fans can

watch the film accompanied by a parent-there is one particular word that has been deleted from the soundtrack.

It’s the word ‘temple’.

Apparently during one of his monologues Ajay Devgn mentioned the ‘T’ word. The CBFC

immediately asked the word ‘temple’ to be deleted from Devgn’s dialogues.

Confirming this Prabhu Dheva says, “Yes, we were asked to delete the word ‘temple’ We readily did so since it made no difference to the dialogue. And we substitut-

ed it with the word ‘statue’. It was no problem at all.”

The larger question here is, are the censor board members being extra-sensitive to words connected to religion?

Ironically, Prabhu Dheva and the Action Jackson producer

Goardhan Tanwani were on trip to pray to the Gods when I contacted them for their reaction.

Prabhu was in Kochi visiting a favourite temple with Tanwani.

After which they headed for Tirupathi to seek the Gods’ blessings for his film.

Dutch popstar Imran Khan to join Tevar promotions

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December 2014 Edition

utch pop star Imran Khan may soon fly down to the city to promote Tevar as the makers plan a huge launch of his song ‘Let’s Celebrate’ from the film.

While the songs ‘Superman’ and ‘Radha Nachegi’ are fast making their way atop the charts, ‘Let’s Celebrate’ sung by Imran Khan will soon be launched in December and the makers have planned an extensive promotional campaign around it.

If sources are to be believed, the makers are planning to organize a concert given the immense popularity of the songs and have invited Imran Khan to be part of it, not to mention, the nationwide tour to promote the film. Says director Amit Sharma, “Hopefully, his song will be released in December. I had gone to The Hague with my screenplay writer Shantanu Srivastava to record the song with Imran and he had come to Mumbai for a day to shoot for the music video.”

Boney Kapoor’s Tevar presented by Eros International & Sanjay Kapoor Entertainment’s features Arjun Kapoor, Sonakshi Sinha and Manoj Bajpayee and is scheduled to release on January 9, 2015.

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Photo source: PTI

Australian minister welcomes Indian Coast Guard ship

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ndian Coast Guard patrol ship Sankalp Thursday arrived in Australia on a five-day visit, which Australian Minister Scott Morrison said demonstrates the “deepening and expanding” maritime security relationship between the two nations.

Morrison, minister for immigra-

tion and border protection, Thursday welcomed Indian Coast Guard Advanced Offshore Patrol Vessel (AOPV) Sankalp to Australia, after it arrived in Darwin harbour.

“Australia and India have a mature maritime security relationship, which will be strengthened by the implementation of the joint Frame-

work for Security Cooper tion announced by Prime Minister (Tony) Abbott and Indian Prime Minster (Narendra) Modi last month,” Morrison said.

“Australia has recently joined India in becoming a member of the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed

Keith Urban voted the most wanted singer by unfaithful Australian women

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eading gold buyer India has announced it has eased controls on imports of the yellow metal after its current account deficit narrowed sharply.

India, the world’s second-biggest gold buyer after China, imposed the import restrictions last year to avert a trade deficit crisis that pushed the rupee to record lows.

“Restrictions placed on import of gold... stand withdrawn with immediate effect,” India’s central bank said in a statement on its website.

The so-called 80:20 import rule meant 20 percent of all imported gold had to be exported before any new shipments could be brought in.

Jewellers use the gold and make it into jewelry for export.

“The falls in gold and more significantly oil prices over the past few months have substantially reduced India’s import bill,” said research house Capital Economics analyst Shilan Shah.

“Even if India’s gold imports now pick up, the threat of the current account deficit

December 2014 Edition

ballooning to previous levels is slim,” Shah said.

But import duty on gold imposed by the government remains at a record 10 percent.

India imports around 90 percent of its gold needs and its 1.2-billion population is believed to have one of the world’s biggest private gold hoards of up to 20,000 metric tons.

In the third quarter, Indian jewellery demand rose almost 60 percent to 182.9 tonnes in the months to September, the World Gold Council, an industry organization, reported.

That was the second-highest total on record, the council said.

The sharp fall in the price of gold has sent Indians flocking to buy the metal.

Gold demand traditionally peaks during the August-to-November wedding season and the Hindu festival of Dhanteras, as the country’s more than 800 million Hindus consider the festival season an auspicious time to buy or give gold as a gift.

Photo source: PTI

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India scraps gold import curbs

Robbery Against Ships in Asia,” he said.

“Our two countries also share a common interest in combating other maritime threats in our region, such as illegal maritime arrivals, marine pollution, transnational crime, and illegal foreign fishing.”

“The visit of AOPV Sankalp

demonstrates the deepening and expanding maritime security relationship between our two nations,” Morrison added.

In addition to further cooperation between the Indian Coast Guard and Australian border protection authorities, other key initiatives announced in the Framework include further bilateral maritime exercises, implementation of an annual joint working group on counter-terrorism and other transnational crimes.

The two sides have also agreed on cooperation on combating illegal migration, annual meetings of the Joint Working Group on Visas, Passports and Consular Matters, and further exchanges and cooperation between national customs authorities, which will include training opportunities, said an official statement.

AOPV Sankalp is the largest, Indian-designed vessel built for the Indian Coast Guard and is used for patrolling and policing maritime zones, pollution control, maritime firefighting, and search and rescue operations.

It will depart Darwin Monday, Dec 8. The ship visited Singapore Nov 23-26. After Australia, it will call on Jakarta Dec 17-20 before returning to Port Blair Dec 23.

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,659 cheating female Australian members of Victoria Milan voted Cheating women consider Keith Urban to be tempting 14 November 2014_What do Australian women love the most about a male signer? A crooning voice oozing charisma? Do they like romantic lyrics or rock ‘n’ roll?

Lively and lustful female members of Victoria Milan – a dating website for attached people looking to cheat – were asked and their answer was clear: The male signer most wanted by 35% of Australian women is Keith Urban, and his appearance was the most attractive quality.

Survey Questions 4,659 female Australian Victoria Milan members voted Which music star would you have an affair with?

Keith Urban (35%) Guy Sebastian (28%) Anthony Callea (19%) Paul Kelly (13%) Darren Hayes (5%) What do you find most attractive about the star you chose?

Everything about him is tempting (51%) His appearance (23%) His voice (15%) His character (11%) www.indian-times.com.au

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CENTRAL EQUITY – AWARD WINNING MELBOURNE DEVELOPER

MEDIA RELEASE

Last chance for stamp duty savings!

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onstruction is now commencing on award winning developer Central Equity’s latest project ‘Australis’. With only 10% initial deposit required to secure your piece of the ‘World’s Most Liveable City’, there has never been a better time to buy in the heart of Melbourne.

Recently named the ‘Word’s Most Live able City’ for the fourth consecutive year by London’s Economist magazine, Melbourne’s unique charm and enviable lifestyle that it provides has seen the CBD become the fastest growing population in Australia (according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics) . A thriving economy, world class education opportunities and reputation as the sporting capital of the world are just some of the reasons why people are flocking to Melbourne.

Central Equity Limited has been a major developer in the Melbourne property industry for over 25 years and has developed in excess of 10,500 apartments, homes and home sites with an end sales value exceeding $4 billion.

Winning the prestigious Housing Industry Associations ‘Victorian Apartment Project of the Year Award’ in 2011 and 2012, the company is recognized as the pioneer of inner-city living.

Central Equity also provides all leasing, property management and resale services in a one-stop shop of property management requirements. ’Australis’ will rise 46 levels above 601 Lt Lonsdale St. with stylish, contemporary CBD living with easy access to the best the city has to offer, including key employment, education, sports and entertainment hubs.

Residents will have easy access to transport with Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff station, tram and bus routes only a block away.

Eye catching architectural design, European appliances, floor to ceiling windows and a 24hr concierge service make this development, innercity living on a grand scale. Apartments ranging from 1 bedroom to Penthouses make this 46 level development something that all occupiers and investors can have access to.

Versatile kitchens featuring composite stone bench tops, and the latest in quality fittings and fixtures, including European appliances and German tap ware. Bathrooms have full height wall tiling, semi-frameless shower screens, large mirrors, high gloss cabinetry and stone vanities. A washer/dryer is also included.

Exclusive resident facilities include an indoor heated pool, BBQ, gymnasium and 24 hour concierge services. ‘Australis’ is on the doorstep of the city’s best commercial, education and lifestyle hubs. Key local business centers include the prestigious legal precinct, just one block away and leading Australian and international corporate offices within walking distance.

For further information contact us Toll Free on 1800 44 55 20 or Visit our website : www.centralequity.com.au

I don’t endorse six-pack or eight pack abs

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December 2014 Edition

kshay Kumar, who is counted amongst the fittest and most agile actors in the Hindi film industry, says he does not favour sixpack or eight-pack abs and that he believes in a “natural way of maintaining a good body”.

“It takes a long time to make abs.

Tehelte tehelte nahi ban jaate abs (It is not a cakewalk to get such abs),” said Akshay on being asked about the trend of abs in Bollywood. ”All that is shown onscreen might not be real either. I don’t endorse these six-pack or eight-pack abs. I believe in the natural way of maintaining a good body,” he added.

The 47-year-old, who himself has a well-sculpted body, asserts that rather than focussing on building abs, people should care about their future health as otherwise it may prove fatal to their bodies.

“The person should also care about his health and future as well. A lot of people depend on products that may give them a good feeling about their bodies for few days, but the long-term effect is dangerous to their body,” Akshay said.

Meanwhile, actors like Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan as well as the new generation actors keep flaunting their six-pack abs and eight-pack abs.

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Sartaj to make his debut with Hollywood film, ‘The Black Prince

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he popular Sufi singer Satinder Sartaaj is all set to make his movie debut with a Hollywood Film.

Apparently, the film is based on the last King of Punjab, Maharaja Duleep Singh, ‘The Black Prince’.

The film has been directed

by Kavi Raz and produced by Brillstein Entertainment Partners. The bilingual film is a tale about the tragic yet enchanting journey of the last king of Punjab Maharaja Duleep Singh.

This is an exclusive talk with the star of ‘The Black Prince’ Satinder Sartaj.

What is the motivation behind this quantum leap?

Why straight Hollywood?

Why Bollywood?

Picture source: lightscamerabollywood

I am always been a keen lover of Heritage and History., Maharajah Duleep Singh is our last king and I feel disheartened that no one till date has take the initiative to narrate his side of the story. Else hs has been projected as mere tragic figure in our Punjab History.

Maharaja Duleep Singh was an intelligent, political genius, brave, loveable, charming and emotional man. And getting an opportunity to play the same inspiring character led me into this film.

away not

It wasn’t about Bollywood or Hollywood or even Pollywood as a matter of fact. I have received numerous offers from Bollywood and Punjabi cinema!

But none of them touched my heart. I was never convinced to be a part of any film until now.

And when I received the offer for ‘The Black Prince’ I felt yes!

This is it. I said yes to the film without looking at script.

As I earlier said I was not willing to do any film which I did not connect with. ‘The Dark Prince’ happened in the matter of timing and commitment. Why did you pick an Epic flick to make a debut? Like most of the stars might opt for a commercial movie to make a debut?

Commerce does not hold any such importance in my life it stands at secondary position.

My whole carrier is not based on commercial aspects. I do what I like and what is good for the society. I did not want to enter Cinema with light and antisocial film.

The Black Prince is the story of the last Sikh Maharaja Duleep Singh, how do you perceive yourself in that character?

Picture source: lightscamerabollywood

How did the ‘The Black Prince’ happen?

“Commerce does not hold any such importance in my life it stands at secondary position. My whole carrier is not based on commercial aspects. I do what I like and what is good for the society.”

I can actually relate to the character, and I did not see much difference, as a matter of fact everyone around felt I really gel into this character. And I also feel the

December 2014 Edition

same.

Any last word for the fans?

I have received a lot of love from my fans across

the world and I believe that they would continue doing the same. Whereas, I hope to fulfill their wish by giving them a worthwhile film.

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Photo source: PTI

Hero swings record Rs 250 crore deal with Tiger Woods

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his is perhaps the mother of all sports endorsement deals by an Indian company, dwarfing the sign-ups of Indian cricketers, who have till now been the gold standard for such contracts.

Hero MotoCorp, the country’s biggest bike company, announced that it had inked a fouryear endorsement deal with ace golfer Tiger Woods for a whopping Rs 250 crore.

Hero Moto vice-chairman Pawan Munjal made the surprise announcement on Monday evening before Indian journalists gathered in Orlando, US. Top cricketers like Virat Kohli and Dhoni are understood to earn Rs 4-10 crore per brand endorsement in a year. While some in the advertising world felt Hero had gone overboard for a golfer who may not cut much ice with buyers of Indian commuting bikes, Munjal felt otherwise. ”Tiger is not just a golfing

champion and an icon for millions around the world, he is a phenomenon. His appeal and charisma spans across continents cutting through barriers of geography, age, language and nationalities,” Munjal said, adding that the company may also sign up other top sports stars including footballers in the coming time.

Munjal has been taking Hero overseas after the split with longtime partner Honda in 2011, and the latest sign-up clearly signals at that. The company has already entered markets in Asia, south and central America, and Africa.

It plans a foray into western European markets next year, and US and Brazil by 2016.

Munjal’s dramatic announcement was made at the Orlando home of India-Swede golfer Daniel Chopra. The Hero vice president suddenly called everyone into a huddle and dropped the news with a smile.

“As I speak about this, I have

goosebumps. We will have Tiger Woods as our corporate partner for the next four years starting from December 1, that is today.

It is an endorsement deal with Tiger Woods in which he will not only be partnering but also promoting Hero as a brand across the globe,” Munjal said.

“It is not just for the US market, but the world. For me, Tiger personifies energy, perseverance, competitiveness, the will to excel and the will to be the best in whatever he does,” he added.

Asked if it was the golfer in him (Munjal is a golf enthusiast) that led him to sign up Woods for such an astronomical amount, Munjalsaid, “These spends are not for today, but are investments made for the future. We aim to make Hero a global brand and want to be present in as many as 50 countries by 2020.”

So what do the ad gurus and sports management professionals think of the bulky endorse-

ment?

“I think this is massive, and one of the biggest single-brand sports endorsement deal that may have happened in the world,” said Melroy D’souza, COO of Professional Management Group.

Some of the top football stars in the world would at the best charge somewhere charge around $3 million (around Rs 18 crore) per year for brand endorsement, though sports kit deals can be bigger.

Asked whether Hero may have overpaid for the deal, D’souza said, “It is massive and gives them a worldwide presence like no other Indian brand. Against a cricket which is more of an Asian phenomenon, Woods gives you a global reach.”

Adman Prahlad Kakkar said it speaks about the coming of age of an Indian company at the global level. “Personally I think it is expensive. I would think twice before paying that amount of

form well in those tournaments.”

Sindhu, who defended the Macau Open title earlier this week, said she would also be looking to minimise her mistakes.

“We beat Chinese players. Whoever plays well on a given day that player would win. Sometimes mistakes happen. But I need to avoid those mistakes,” Sindhu said.

The 19-year-old shuttler, however, said that she has not set any particular target in the new year and would like to focus on each and every tournament.

“It is done for this year. For next

year, each and every tournament is important for me. Whether it is a small tournament, a Grand Prix, Super Series or Premier, it is equally important,” “Many players from other countries are playing very well. We cannot take anyone easily. I think we have to be very focused and work hard,” said Sindhu.

Currently ranked World No. 11, Sindhu said she would not be giving too much importance to the rankings as it is bound to go up if the performance is good.

“I am World No. 11 right now. I

was 10 before. It does not really depend on ranking. If you really play well, automatically the ranking goes up. It is just that you have to play well and be focused,” she said.

Sindhu said that the competition at the international level is getting tougher with several youngsters from Japan and Korea, besides China, coming up with strong performances.

“Competition in the international circuit has been good. Not only from the Chinese players, there are Koreans, Japanese also. As I said, we cannot take anyone easily. So,

money. But having said that, it is brings out the fact that an Indian company can be bold enough to sign on a Tiger Woods. That itself is a statement.”

Last year, cricketer Virat Kohli set the endorsements world abuzz when he inked a Rs 10crore per annum deal with German sports goods giant Adidas.

The three-year contract, perhaps the most lucrative to be signed by an Indian sports star, saw the swashbuckling right-hand batsman endorsing the brand’s apparel and shoes.

As reported, the Delhi lad also struck a Rs 6.5 crore a year deal with MRF for sponsoring his bat.

The Indian vice-captain pocketed around Rs 40 crore from endorsements last year. The two deals made Kohli top the likes of Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Tendulkar in terms of annual earnings per endorsement.

While Kohli charges about Rs 1.5 crore per day as endorsement fee, Dhoni’s price point is at about a crore per day. The Indian captain’s most lucrative endorsement was a Rs 5 crore per annum deal he struck with Reebok for his bat and footwear. Tendulkar used to charge about Rs 1.5 crore per day at the peak of his career.

Tiger Woods first signed a fiveyear endorsement deal with Nike in 1996 for a reported $40 million (about the same at the value of the Hero deal, but for a year more); unlike now, he was then at his peak. Last year he signed a fresh contract with the sports goods maker.

“We will be very shortly start to promote the Hero brand with Tiger across the world through all forms of media - print, digital electronic, social media, outdoor etc. I believe this is huge, not just for me or an Indian company, but in general,” Munjal said.

He did not clarify whether this tie-up would ensure the golfer’s participation in the Indian Open in the coming years but did say that it was a possibility. “The deal does not mean he has to take part in every Indian Open, but it is open-ended. It is after all the ‘Indian Open’,” he smiled.

Sindhu aims to work harder on her game in coming year

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t has been a decent year for PV Sindhu with a bronze medal finish at the World Championships and retaining Macau Open title, but the young shuttler is keen to work harder on various aspects of her game and put up better performances against top players in the coming year.

Stating that she is focussing on improving her defence and strokes, Sindhu said, “Next year is Olympic (qualifying) year. Performance-wise, I think I need to work so much. There are many tournaments like Super Series and All England. I wish I per-

December 2014 Edition

overall, competition is tough. You have to be alert from the beginning,” said the girl from Hyderabad.

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Photo source: PTI

Australian Open tweaks heat policy for 2015

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ustralian Open organisers have tweaked their ‘Extreme Heat Policy’ for next year’s tournament after being accused of forcing players to

temperatures exceeded 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) for four days at this year’s tournament, play was stopped for only four hours on

perceived conditions.

In another change, when the policy is enacted matches in progress will continue until the end of an even number games in that set or completion of tie break, limiting the exposure of players to the heat.

The loudest complaints in January came from Canadian player Frank Dancevic, who lambasted organisers after collapsing during his first round match on an uncovered outside court.

“I think it’s inhumane, I don’t think it’s fair to anybody, to the players, to the fans, to the sport, when you see players pulling out of matches, passing out,” he said.

“Having players with so many problems and complaining to the tournament that it’s too hot to play, until somebody dies, they’re just keep going on with it and putting matches on in this heat.”

Meteorologist Bob Leighton said long-range forecasts indicated that there would be no similar heatwave this year at the Jan 19-Feb 1 tournament at Melbourne Park.

“At this stage it’s looking like a normal summer, perhaps slightly warmer, with only one day hitting around 40 degrees, and little or no rain forecast,” he said.

Don’t ban bouncers, says Virender Sehwag

anning bouncers following the death of Australia’s Phillip Hughes would be unfair on bowlers because batsmen always have the option of ducking under shortpitched deliveries, former India opener Virender Sehwag said.

Hughes, who would have been 26 at the weekend, died last Thursday from an injury caused by a ball striking him on the back of the head during a domestic match, triggering a huge outpouring of grief in Australia and around the world.

Restricting Sehwag in full flow has been a very difficult task for bowlers over the years but the 36-year-old, who has scored two triple centuries in tests, feels there should be no clampdown on bouncers.

“It was very sad that Hughes died in such a way. But it’s part of cricket and injuries are part of any sport,” Sehwag told reporters at a promotional event organised by MoneyGram to mark next year’s 50-over World Cup. “You have an option to duck bouncers as a batsman. If you cut out the bouncers, then there is no fun left in the game and it’s already a batsman’s game.

“I have been hit on the helmet by quite a few bouncers. But it’s a weapon for the bowlers so they should not be robbed off it.”

The flamboyant right-hander, who last played for India in March 2013, was an integral part of the country’s World Cupwinning team in 2011 on home soil.

He has not given up hope of playing in next year’s tournament in Australia and New Zealand and believes India have the strength to defend the trophy.

Leading up to the World Cup, India will play a triangular oneday series in Australia along with England but a four-test series starting this month will be their priority.

Very strong at home, India’s problems on their travels have been well documented with the team losing 13 of their last 17 test matches on foreign soil. They were thrashed 4-0 on their last trip Down Under.

“I think we have a very good chance of doing well in Australia because the conditions will not be like in England where the ball swings and seams,” Sehwag said, referring to India’s series loss in England this year.

“The only thing will be the extra bounce and I am hoping our team will be able to adjust to that and do well.”

December 2014 Edition

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perform in “inhumane” conditions during a heatwave in January.

Despite water bottles melting, ballboys collapsing and players vomiting and passing out when

the outer courts.

There was a groundswell of criticism from players, mainly over the lack of transparency about when the policy would be implemented as it was entirely at the discretion of the tournament referee and not triggered by temperatures reaching a certain level.

Tournament director Craig Tiley said the addition of a roof over a third show court, the Margaret Court Arena, would mitigate the effects of hot weather and he hoped the changes to the policy would make matters clearer to players.

“The heat policy, as always, will be applied at the referee’s discretion,” Tiley told reporters.

“The decision on implementing the heat policy will take into account the forecast once the ambient temperature exceeds 40 degrees Celsius, and the Wet Bulb Global Temperature (WBGT) reading exceeds 32.5.

“When conditions exceed these levels the referee is taking into account the forecast and state of play when making his discretionary call.”

Rather than use the raw Celsius readings to assess the heat, organisers prefer to use the WBGT composite, which also gauges humidity and wind to identify the

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IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) According to Ayurveda it is related to Grahani. The main reasons are include improper eating habits, drinking, exercising too soon after eating, forcing and restraining natural urges and taking chemical drugs. Due to the above mentioned reasons there will increase accumulation of toxins (AMA) in the digestive system and blocks the circulation and finally cause disruption to the function of the GI (Includes dhoshic imbalance) and results in improper bowel moments and other symptoms.

Vata type or the constipation type of IBS which is mainly dominated by dryness of skin, abnormal mucus secretions, alteration of constipation and diarrhoea, bloating, insomnia, anal fissure and severe weight loss.

Pitta type or the diarrhoea type of IBS which is mainly dominated by hotness, burning sensation, thirst, irritability, excessive sweat or perspiration, heartburn, fever and foul smelling stools.

Kaphs type or the dysentery type of IBS which is mainly dominated by mucus, nausea, indigestion, heaviness in the abdomen, sluggish bowel moments and lethargy.

Tridhosic type of IBS is mainly dominated by the three humors

and consists all complaints of three different types of IBS. TREATMENT IN AYURVEDA According to Ayurvedic philosophy it is mainly triggered by the Vata dhosha and the treatment should initially address the Vata.

Whereas, Modern medical science mainly treats the symptoms but the root cause by administrating Anti Spasmodic and anti cholinergic drugs to reduce the pain and bloating, anti diarrheal, anti constipation, psychotropic agents such as tricyclic depressants and anxiolytics and serotonin receptor agonist and antagonists are used to treat the other symptoms. The side effects of anti cholinergic and other drugs include but not confined to urinary retention, tachycardia, dry mouth and constipation etc.

According to Ayurveda the treatments starts from the behavioural and lifestyle modifications, drug therapy, detoxification and rejuvenation treatments to avoid the aggravated dhoshas (Humors). It mainly involves meditation, pranayama, doing asanas, and maintains regular routine like regular sleeping and eating and avoiding stressful situations etc. Generally a SATVIC diet and life style is

Grooming mistakes that make you look older

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Dr. C.R.S. Kumar WHAT IS IBS? IBS (Irritable bowel syndrome) is also known as spastic colitis, mucus colitis and nervous colon syndrome. Around one in five Australians experiences the unpleasant symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) at some time. It is a long-term (chronic) gastrointestinal disorder that causes wide range of complaints.

The most common symptoms include from abdominal pain, bloating, mucous in stools, irregular bowel habits, and alternating diarrhoea and constipation.

Although it is a chronic condition, symptoms tend to wax and wane over the years.

CAUSES IBS cause great distress among patients. According to the conventional system it is an idiopathic, functional, gastrointestinal disorder, whereas According to Ayurvedic Medicine this is related to “Grahani” and the causes are explained in detail in the ancient books such as Charaka samhitha , Madhva Nidhana.

According to the modern science it is a functional disturbance and it is mainly associated with stress.

It is believed to be a disorder of motor and sensory functions of GI tract.

highly advisable to prevent and cure the symptoms of IBS. Few Ayurvedic Life Style Recommendations: 1. Increase dietary fibre 2. Restore healthy balance of bacteria in GI tract 3. Indentify and avoid food intolerances 4. Mind – Body therapy 5. Need to know the Ayurvedic compatibility of the food ingredients 6. Timely eating and sleeping habits 7. Regular physical exercise Finally, IBS is not a life threatening disorder but it makes life more miserable. It is highly important for the patients and practitioners to

be aware that the cure may take time and it not just simply enough with medications, but it needs a life style and behavioural change to prevent and control IBS. You may ask your personal query to Dr Kumar via Email drkumar@ jeevahealth.com.au or by phone 040 282 745 / 03 99399474 or 02 6156 0618 regarding any of your health problems. You will be offered authentic Ayurvedic information and an opinion, as to what best can be done pertaining to your ailment.

Ayurveda, naturopathy, yoga and meditation related appointments in Melbourne / Canberra Ayurveda Clinics, please ring 03 99399474.

AYURVEDA Melbourne CBD, Surrey Hills & Canberra

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Live life...Naturally

N

o woman likes to be told she looks older than she actually is. But look at yourself closely — are you making mistakes that actually make you look older than you actually are? Chances are that some of your fashion or beauty choices are actually making you look more than your real age.

Do you wear thick black eyeliner all the time? While dark, made up eyes look great at a party, they can also age you. As women grow older, eyelashes and eyebrows start to get slightly thinner. And when you want to hide that with heavy eye makeup, you end up simply making yourself older than you actu-

December 2014 Edition

ally are.

Avoid keeping extra long hair or too short.

Keep it up to your shoulders or at the most a couple of inches below your shoulders. The haircut you opt for is also important. Avoid ! fringes and flicks. Instead go for layers that suit your face.

When you moisturise your body, pay extra attention to your hands. Wrinkly hands can be the first thing that can give away your age — or even give an impression that you’re older than you really are. Use special hand cream to make sure your hands (which take the most brunt daily) are well taken care of.

Specialized treatments available for: • Arthritis • Psoriasis • Erectile Dysfunction • Premature ejaculation • Impotency • Depression • Anxiety • Knee pain • Back pain/sciatica • UTI • PMS • Pregnancy care • Weight loss • Paralysis • Haemorrhoids • Fistula-In-Ano • & various ailments

Dr. Kumar CRS BAMS (Gold Medallist), MPH(Deakin), MHP(Deakin).

Principal Ayurvedic Physician and Panchakarma Specialist Jeeva Health

Other Services:

Homeopathy Consultations Remedial Massage

JEEVA HEALTH PTY LTD

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SUITE 412, LEVEL 4, 480 COLLINS ST 3000 1103, RIVERSDALE ROAD, SURREY HILLS, 3127 1ST FLOOR DICKSON CHAMBERS, DICKSON, ACT

Ph: 03 9939 9474, 0402 282 745 Email: info@jeevahealth.com.au www.jeevahealth.com.au www.indian-times.com.au

Facts and myths about suicide

he World Health Organisation (WHO)’s first global report on suicide prevention is an alarming one. With approximately 800,000 persons dying from suicide globally every year, it means that there is one death every 40 seconds.

Back home, Thomas Johnson, founder of Aasra, a suicide prevention helpline, says, they receive 55 to 60 calls every day.

More try to reach out through emails and social media. “One of every three suicides takes place in India, making us the suicide capital of the world.” Their call volumes increase from December to July. This is the exam to result period when students are under immense pressure, says Thomas.

Also, winter in general is another peak period.

Yet, there is little information available on suicide, while myths add to the confusion. We get experts to present facts and clarify misconceptions.

FACT In developing nations, suicide is more prevalent than AIDS, cancer, and diabetes combined Unbelievable, but true. Dr Ajit Dandekar, Consulting Psychiatrist at Nanavati Hospital blames it on our fast changing society. “Loneliness has increased. Most families are turning nuclear, which is further disintegrated with the spouse or children moving away for studies and jobs. Some families meet only

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over weekends or once a month,” he says. And although we know many more people today, thanks to the reach of social media, we hardly have any emotional ties with them. “And this ‘pseudo connect’ with people lacks human interaction. We are losing the warmth, sharing and support required for social existence,” adds Dr Dandekar. Stress is another contributing factor to the rising numbers of suicides and depression. “Everyone is part of a rat race,”says Dr Manoj Bhatawdekar, consulting psychiatrist at Juvenile Diabetes Foundation. “The self- esteem of a person is equated with the marks in exams or the financial position in society. There is a tremendous rise in materialism and little time devoted to self-development.”

MYTH Better paying jobs means more health and happiness Over the last few years, we have started to cater to an international clientele and most of us work long or odd hours. “This alters the bio rhythm and leads to changes in emotional patterns,” explains Dr Dandekar.

“We are imitating the West by consuming foods that are not meant to suit our bodies in these climatic conditions. All this harms the emotional health of an individual.”

FACT Youth are prone to suicide The young and the restless is not a myth. It’s the truth of our times.

To add to this, over indulgence is becoming a part of our existence.

“We don’t take disappointment in good stride. We give children things even before they ask for it. Sharing isn’t practised, they are used to separate TVs, toilets, telephones. This makes the young more ego centric and less accommodative. Parents bribe their children to make them do things without understanding ability,” says Dr Dandekar.

According to Dr Bhatawdekar, “Besides, parents have become over aware and unduly concerned about the child’s academic performance. They also feel guilty for not being able to spend enough time with their children.”

MYTH Elders are more secure With rising cost of living, more and more elders are becoming financially very insecure. They are constantly worried if they can make do with limited sources. The empty nest syndrome is another cause of depression among them. “Most of them who are suffering from physical health issues often fear loneliness and suffering,” says Thomas.

FACT Women are emotionally stronger than men The WHO report suggests that the ratio of men to women committing suicide is 2:1.

“This is mainly because women don’t internalise the problem. They are better communicators and often seek social and professional help. Men, on the other hand, tend to take refuge in alcohol, smoking, and playing cards rather than

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health

seeking professional help,” says Dr Dandekar. In our society, boys are raised differently. Them crying is not accepted as manly. “They lack in communication skills. Besides, male ego is fragile, and is likely to be hurt more easily and more often,” he says. That apart, as Dr Bhatawdekar points out, men tend to use lethal means of attempting suicides than women, which is also why the number of successfully committed suicides are more in men.

MYTH Barking dogs don’t bite Suicide attempt is a plea for help.

Acknowledge that behind every successful suicide, there have been several failed attempts. Never treat it as an attention seeking behaviour prima facie because even if it was hysterical behaviour, recognise that the victim requires professional help. “About 90 per cent of depression is curable

through medicines, psychotherapy and electroconvulsive (shock) therapy and there is nothing wrong with them,” says Dr Dandekar.

FACT There is less than one psychiatrist per 100,000 people It has to be ingrained into the minds of children that mental illnesses are real because the mind is a tangible part of our body. There is nothing wrong about having mental problems just as there is nothing wrong with common cold, says Dr Dandekar.

Occupational therapists, psychiatrists and psychologists must be available at offices and schools for ease of access and regular psychological screening and panel discussions must be conducted. “Even medical practitioners need to become more equipped to diagnose and refer depression to psychiatrists,” asserts Dr Bhatawdekar.

Planning to conceive? Take folic acid supplements for a healthy baby

olic acid supplementation is well known to reduce the risk of neural tube defects to a developing fetus, but a new study says hopeful moms-to-be should start the process even before they get pregnant to reduce the risk of low birth weight.

Babies considered small for gestational age (SGA) represent the smallest 10% of babies born.

SGA babies run the risk of contracting diseases later on including diabetes, hypertension, obesity, cardiovascular disease and mental health problems, according to the researchers of the UK-based study.

Although the benefits of preconceptual folic acid supplementation are nothing new and it’s recommended for women in the UK, the researchers note that the majority of women don’t follow the recommendation.

Participants in the study, which examined 108,525 pregnancies, had a mean maternal age of 28.7 and a median body mass index (BMI) of a healthy 24.7. Nearly 82% were non-smokers and 42% were first-time mothers.

Nearly 85% of the mothers took folic acid during their pregnancies; however, of the pool of 108,525 pregnancies, the time at which they began supplementation was recorded in just 39,416

December 2014 Edition

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cases.

Of those, 25.5% had started supplementation before conceiving.

Birth weights in the lowest 10

and 5% represented 13.4% and 7% of the total sample. Among women who hadn’t taken folic acid, those percentages were 16.3 and 8.9, respectively.

Among mothers who had taken folic acid before conception, the percentages were the lowest: 9.9 and 4.8.

In cases when the mother

started supplementation after becoming pregnant, 13.8% of babies were in the bottom 10% and 7.1 in the bottom 5.

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Why you must drink water

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egular intake of water is essential for maintaining good health Most of us know that up to seventy per cent of the total body

weight is due to water. Although it is present in all parts of the body, it is more present in organs such as lungs and brain and fluids such as blood, lymph, saliva and secre-

tions by the organs of the digestive system.

The common belief is that we feel thirsty only when our body needs water. While this is true,

recent research studies have indicated that there are several other indicators of inadequate water in some or all parts of the body. Ignoring these indicators can lead

to several major diseases.

Most of us spend a lot of our working hours in air-conditioned environment so naturally we don’t feel thirsty but that does not mean that our body does not need water.

Lack of water can lead to fatigue too. So, for your glowing health, drink enough water.

Importance of water for maintaining normal health: Just as water helps a seed grow into a tree, it also helps our body.

The flow of water inside and outside the cells generates energy.

This energy is stored in body along with other chemical sources of energy in the body. The energy generated by the water in the cells helps transmit impulses in the nerves. Water content in the body influences the functions of the various proteins and enzymes that are dissolved in it.

Water helps maintain the moisture of the lining of the internal organs of the body. It maintains normal volume and consistency of fluids such as blood and lymph.

It regulates body temperature.

It removes ‘toxins’ from the body Water is essential for regulating the normal structure and functions of the skin. The body loses about four litres of water every day. It is, therefore, necessary to replenish this volume by drinking at least the equivalent amount of water every day. Inadequate intake of water can lead to dehydration.

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December 2014 Edition

I

f you are not sleeping well and enough, apart from health problems, you also run the risk of making bad financial decisions and even losing your job.

According to researchers, the effects of sleep loss on cognitive processing, concentration and memory are striking and acute.

“Processing speed deteriorates dramatically with shortened sleep duration, and you cannot simply ‘catch up’ on the weekends,” said Emerson Wickwire, director at Howard County Center for Lung and Sleep Medicine in Columbia, Maryland.

Professionals in their 40s to 50s often feel sleepy at work that worsens as the afternoon progresses.

“They have a fear that some younger, more energetic person is going to take their job or their promotion,” Nitun Verma from Washington Township Center for Sleep Disorders in Fremont, California, was quoted as saying in Huffington Post.

People in their 20s and 30s suffer from

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Sleep deprivation can take your job

sleepless nights too.

“They have a more active social and professional night life, advancing their lives and careers, and often only sleep four to five hours a night,” Verma added.

According to researchers, there are many reasons we do not get enough sleep. Some people are workaholics or night owls.

Others are kept up by chronic stress or insomnia and some have a disorder like sleep apnea.

“We habituate to adenosine, a brain chemical that induces sleep. So even though judgment and performance are impaired, we think we are performing just fine,” Wickwire added.

“The reality is, they are depriving their brains of a nutrient just as vital as food or water,” he cautioned.

Warning signs are low energy, decreased sex drive, irritability, poor concentration and depressed mood.

Get eight hours of sleep at any cost to avoid such signs, Wickwire concluded.

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