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Rupee weakens to 62.31 on foreign investment worries

he rupee weakened on Monday as shares fell to their lowest close in 2 and a half weeks on worries about whether foreign investors will continue to buy into India in the new year, but exporters sold dollars, capping broader losses. The rupee has fallen 0.8% so far this year, hitting a one-month low on Friday, hurt by a stronger dollar globally as well as caution ahead of key economic data this

January 2014 Edition

month. Some traders speculated the central bank likely sold a small amount of dollars at the session high of 62.46 per dollar levels, prompting exporters to rush in to sell. However, there was no clear consensus in the market. The rupee is expected to be rangebound, with the government due to post November factory output on Friday, which will be followed by December wholesale

and retail price data next week. “We should see the pair hold in a 61.75 to 63.00 range in the nearterm,” said Paresh Nayar, head of fixed income and currencies at First Rand Bank. “Forward premiums are still high. So exporters also were likely selling the greenback,” he added. The partially convertible rupee closed at 62.31 per dollar compared with 62.16 on Friday after moving in a range of 62.24 to

62.46 during the session. The rupee weakened as Indian shares fell to their lowest close in two and a half weeks on Monday, and have now declined in each of the four trading sessions of the year. Foreign funds sold a net $2.22 million on Friday, latest exchange data showed, sparking worries about whether the strong buying seen last year would ease. Foreign institutional investors

are still net buyers of $160.21 million so far in 2014 after buying more than $20 billion in 2013. In the offshore non-deliverable forwards, the one-month contract was at 62.78 while the threemonth was at 63.64. The one-month onshore forward premium rose to 45.50 points compared with 42.50 points at previous close while the threemonth was at 132.50 points versus 130.25 points.

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UP riots: Minister says people die in palaces too

he latest insensitive remark on deaths in relief camps of Muzaffarnagar and Shamli comes from state sports minister Narad Rai who said on Saturday that death occurs everywhere, even in palaces. “Death of children, adults or elderly is inevitable. It isn’t necessary that only those living in camps are dying. People die in palaces too. It isn’t that children in our homes don’t die. Deaths occur everywhere,” Rai said. Some days back the Akhilesh Yadav government had accepted that 34 children living in relief camps have died in riot-hit Muzaffarnagar and Shamli. The admission of deaths by the state government was based on a report by a high-level official panel formed by it to probe the fatalities in relief camps. Officials said that these deaths took place between September 7 and December 20, when winter chill set in. While 12 children died in the camps, the remaining 22 died in hospitals or nursing homes where they were taken for medical care. Narad Rai justified his statement, saying “my intention was not to hurt the feelings of

the victims of riot relief camps. I reiterate that best possible efforts were made by the UP government in terms of shelter, clothing and food for the victims staying in the relief camps.” Minister for geology and mines, Gayatri Prasad Prajapati had said on Friday that the Muzaffarnagar riot issues were not as serious or big as being made out in the media. The minister’s comment came during an interaction with the media in Jalaun. Opposition parties are already cornering the Akhilesh government over poor handling of riot victims at relief camps in Muzaffarnagar. SP government in UP has been in the eye of a storm for neglecting riot victims and focusing on annual celebrations held at his native village Saifai in Etawah. Allegations are that the government had spent crores of rupees to host the Saifai Mahotsava at the cost of neglecting riot victims. On December 27, principal secretary (home) AK Gupta invited criticism from various quarters, while forcing CM to intervene on the official’s antics. “Nobody dies of the cold; if people did, nobody would survive in Siberia,” said AK Gupta, one of

Photo source: PTI

“My intention was not to hurt the feelings of the victims of riot relief camps. I reiterate that best possible efforts were made by the UP government in terms of shelter, clothing and food for the victims staying in the relief camps.”

the most senior bureaucrats in the state government. Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav said hours later,

“In this age of television and cameras, people from our party and government should choose

their words carefully so they don’t hurt anyone’s feelings.”

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he bitterness in IndiaUS ties over the Devyani Khobragade case is likely to linger as India squares up to the Obama administration’s indifference to a rusting “strategic partnership”, glaringly exposed by the diplomat’s

humiliation. Khobragade’s on street arrest, the indignities she was subjected to in custody and her return amid heightened acrimony strongly point to the much-hailed partnership’s decline with US not caring to mask

its disinterest. The vehemence of India’s response possibly surprised US, but India could hardly have done otherwise as the deliberation with which the US diplomatic security service acted almost suggests she

Rahul has nothing except his surname: Ramdev

was being made an example of. Claims that authorities merely followed the book seem unconvincing as the view grows that US increasingly sees ties with India in transactional terms, with a crib list over market access and stalled reforms obscuring a larger confluence of interests. US prosecutor Preet Bharara’s suggestion that a “legal process was started in India against the victim, attempting to silence her, and attempts were made to compel her to return to India” revealed a view of the Indian system otherwise hailed as a democratic marvel. His wonderment at why outrage in India ignored the “victim” in the case only made matters worse. The disdain, bordering on insolence, with which US not only shunned subtler ways of dealing with the case filed by Khobragade’s former maid but spirited away her family - all Indian citizens - point to a high degree of premeditation. Despite the quibbling over the scope of consular immunity as against diplomatic immunity, US manuals themselves make it quite plain that handcuffing, leave alone a strip search, is usually precluded in such cases. The drift in ties has seen the very American business interests like

Harassment charge may force SC ex-judge to quit tribunal

Photo source: PTI

ccusing Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal of joining hands with “the most corrupt party in the world”, Baba Ramdev launched a frontal attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) here on Saturday, while simultaneously batting for the BJP’s prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi. Ramdev sought a clarification

January 2014 Edition

from AAP as to how it planned to protect the common man when it had joined hands with the Congress, because of which a particular family had always enjoyed a VIP status. Drawing a parallel in the BJP, Ramdev asked why Kejriwal chose the Congress instead of Narendra Modi, who was born in a common family and had an “undisputed”

track record, integrity and performance. “The country wants stable and matured leadership which can only be given by Modi.” Ridiculing Congress leadership, Ramdev said, “Poor Rahul has nothing except his surname”. Ramdev also criticised Kejriwal for shying away from taking action against former Delhi CM Sheila Dikshit.

Westinghouse and General Electric that rooted for India bemoaning restricted access and ensuring their woes figure on the agenda of US leaders meeting Indian counterparts. A deadening of sensitivities has meant that mid-level officers dealing with a case like Khobragade did not think that a higher call is needed as the events could impact relations with an important partner in south Asia. The all too visible downgrade in priority accorded to India can only expose New Delhi to ridicule in Islamabad and Beijing, given the top billing accorded to the perceived synergy between the two large democracies. Despite the congealing ties, the nonchalance with which US treated the fallout of the case has not been fully explained, though some quarters see it as a reflection of just how far off India has fallen off the map for the Obama White House. The audacious disregard of India’s legal system and extraction of the maid’s family in order to preempt anticipated reprisals against Khobragade’s impending arrest points to a return to an older, and what was till recently was felt to be an obsolete, formulation of estranged democracies.

he continuation of a retired Supreme Court judge — accused of allegedly sexually harassing a law intern — as the chairperson of a national tribunal appeared uncertain on Saturday with the government terming the allegations as serious. Though the former SC judge has strongly denied the allegations, demands are growing for a probe into the “unwelcome advances” made by him as a serving SC judge towards a law intern in May-June 2011. Following a full court meeting of the Supreme Court judges on December 5 in which it was decided that it was not for the top court to decide about any action on complaints against former judges, Chief Justice of India P Sathasivam had declined to entertain the intern’s affidavit. Petroleum minister M Veerappa Moily, who also holds the charge of environment ministry, said the

Photo Photosource: source:PTI PTI

Photo source: PTI

Devyani Khobragade row shows India fell off Obama’s map

allegations appeared to be serious and the SC should probe them. “For what has appeared in the media, the allegations if proved are serious, the Supreme Court should look into it,” Moily said. According to the national tribunal act, whose chairperson is the former SC judge, the government can remove its chairperson only in consultation with the CJI and that too after an inquiry by the Supreme Court holds him guilty. The government, however, has the power to suspend the chairperson once it makes a reference to the Supreme Court for a probe into the allegations against him. The former SC judge, however, has got the support of the tribunal’s bar association. In a statement after its emergency meeting, the lawyers said the demands for his resignation were “based on a onesided mere assertion in an affidavit” amounted to mob-lynching.

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he fear of being accused of sexual harassment is driving male pilots to violate a standard operating procedure (SOP), potentially putting lives in peril. According to the SOP governing flight safety, the pilot or the co-pilot can leave the cockpit only after a member of cabin crew has been called into the flight deck. This is to ensure that if the person flying the plane suddenly falls sick, there is someone to tend to him or her and get the other pilot back urgently. But, it turns out, many male pilots across domestic airlines have decided to keep air hostesses out of the cockpit, terrified the women will slap charges of groping or other forms of harassment on them. “As a departure from the SOP, most of us in SpiceJet as well as in other domestic carriers have adopted a practice wherein we don’t really allow the female members of the crew to enter the flight deck,” a senior pilot said. “The only reason being that should one of them turn around tomorrow and level seriously damaging allegations of groping, we pilots would have a lot of answering to do and may even lose our jobs even if the allegations are unsubstantiated,” he said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Several other pilots said that recent high-profile cases involving a retired judge, Justice AK Ganguly, and journalist Tarun Tejpal, have forced them to look at measures that “protect us, even though they come at the cost of flight safety.” Airlines contacted were quick to deny that any such contravention of SOP was occurring. A SpiceJet spokesperson said: “As a procedure, the crew does go in when required. No one is afraid nor has there been any case of anything unusual happening. The idea of fear of female cabin crew is preposterous given that we have plenty of female pilots as well.” “There have never been any instances of pilots sharing any fears of asking female crew members to come inside the cockpit when one of the pilots has stepped out. Safety is paramount for IndiGo and there can be absolutely no compromise on safety,” said an IndiGo spokesperson. Air India and Jet Airways did not respond. But one pilot spoke of the need to air his fears: “I do admit and fully understand that not allowing female colleagues in have consequences from a flight safety issue, but I do deem it important enough to let our fears be known to the public at large.’’ Another pilot said, “The new law

Photo source: PTI

Male pilots put flyers at risk to avoid sexual harassment charges

is playing on our psyche.’’ Asked if they were not scared about air hostesses complaining about the SOP being violated, he said, “We pilots are constantly discussing

this issue and now believe that it is better that the air hostess complain about not being allowed entry into the cockpit than them complaining about being groped.”

Another pilot said they only allow cabin crew colleagues they know well and trust but are now guarded about following the SOP as a routine.

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t was meant to be a new avatar of a grievance redressal system, paving the way for quick relief for the aam admi. But the first ‘Janata Darbar’ of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government on January 11 ended in a near stampede. Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal was forced to flee his desk set up on the road opposite the Delhi Secretariat after overzealous complainants literally climbed on to his table and chair and almost trampled him. Later he reappeared on the roof inside the secretariat complex to appeal for calm, as the darbar timings of 9.30 to 11 am were officially over. “Go back home now,” he told the estimated crowd of about 20,000 people who refused to disperse, angered by the mismanagement. “We will make better arrangements next time,” he said. For those who came face-toface with the chaos, it was a far cry from the neat picture of Swaraj - self-rule - the AAP had painted for them. Kejriwal’s announcement of a ‘Janata Darbar’ - where the Cabinet would sit outside the Delhi Secretariat on Saturdays to note people’s problems and try and resolve them at the earliest - had raised the hopes of thousands of Delhiites, who came armed with petitions, letters and documents. In the crowd were serious complainants, a large number of associations represented by employees on contract, resident welfare associations, victims of violence, parents of missing children, the disabled and elderly along with AAP supporters and Kejirwal admirers, many of whom left disappointed. Those who did manage to get their complaints registered at the help desks manned by Kejriwal’s ministers, who stayed put in the melee in an attempt to hold up the promise of hearings, seemed uncertain about the outcome. Public anger turned into outrage when Kejriwal left his desk. It is learnt that arrangements were made for a crowd of about

Photo source: PTI

Kejriwal’s first darbar ends in near-stampede I

5,000; officials had not anticipated the rush that triggered major traffic jams on arterial roads at Raj Ghat, ITO and Vikas Marg. Enthusiasts began arriving in the wee hours of Saturday morning; some had parked themselves at the spot the night before. By 9.30 am, the road was swarming with people and by 10 am, the situation was out of control with no queues or token system in place to regulate crowds. Sources in the CM’s office said that even the receipts for complaint redressal were inadequate in number for those that had gathered. There were no arrangements for the dis-

abled, elderly and infirm and the first reactions of most people who came for the hearing were of utter disbelief. While his detractors described the darbar as nothing but a populist move, Kejriwal managed to regain some lost ground with his trademark honesty. “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” he shouted from the rooftop, instantly appeasing the crowd that clapped in joy and responded to his patriotic call. Apologizing for the chaos, the chief minister blamed it on ‘unexpected numbers’ and accepted responsibility for not being prepared for a gathering of this size. “Give us some

time to streamline the system. We will address all your grievances,” he said, urging the crowd to register their complaints at the ministers’ counters that remained functional till the darbar ended. The plan of holding a Janata Darbar on weekdays - with one minister in attendance daily -- starting Monday stands suspended as of now, and the CM has requested three to four days to streamline the system. He is also exploring the option of holding these meetings in a stadium. Kejriwal later tweeted that 2,582 complaints were received on Saturday. These complainants

will be the first to get relief and be intimated of the status of their complaint via SMS by concerned departments. At the end, however, Kejriwal’s charm and genuine desire to connect with people revived the hopes of the crowd accustomed to indifferent politicians who have patronized them. Dilip Singh, who came with his ailing mother-in-law in the hope of getting assistance for her treatment, said, “We have come all this way only because of the hope Kejriwal has given us. Otherwise the MLAs and ministers were never accessible like this to a common man.”

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Lok Sabha polls a matter of my honour: Mulayam

P chief Mulayam Singh Yadav expressed desire to fight for prime ministership and said the upcoming Lok Sabha elections were “a matter of honour” for him. He asked the people to give the party a majority in the forthcoming general elections as “both the Congress and the BJP had lost people’s faith”. “For the first time I am saying this, the next Lok Sabha election is a matter of my honour. As Congress has lost public mandate and BJP lacks popular support, the SP is the only alternative,” Mulayam

said while addressing a “Desh Bachao Desh Banao” rally at the GIC Ground here. On the matter of extending support to form a coalition, the SP supremo said “the party would weigh issues related to poor, farmers and youths with like-minded parties”. Overwhelmed by the huge turnout of approximately 1.25 lakh SP supporters, Mulayam took a potshot at BJP’s prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi. Without taking his name, he said, “A leader of the communal party was very happy about the crowd in his

rally held here recently. He should come here and see that four-times more people have turned up in our rally today.” Slamming the UPA government, he said it was “so weak that it failed to end starvation despite the abundance of food produced in the country”. “It is so unfortunate that despite farmers producing food grain in abundance, deaths are taking place due to starvation. This government cannot feed the people of agri-oriented country. There is no government shameless, weak and lowly than this,” he

alleged and declared that “a government that cannot end hunger has no authority to rule”. He also took to task the BJP and said that it was only concerned about creating differences between Hindus and Muslims. “In the existing circumstances, SP is the only alternative at the Centre,” he said. He also dropped broad hints about Centre’s use of CBI to settle political scores and said that “it took him and Akhilesh nine years to come out of the clutches of the CBI”. He further said that the “agency did not even spare our relatives but ultimately truth prevailed”. Mulayam also advised media “to go by facts” and “avoid being managed by corporates who are trying to downsize the SP through false campaigning.” Pointing at the reporters’ gallery, he added, “Media persons who are indulging in such a practice, I advise you to be honest or else nobody will listen to you.” Defending the Akhilesh government on Muzaffarnagar riots, the SP patriarch declared, “While all parties are trying to gain political mileage from the riots, state government is trying its best to resettle the victims.” He further claimed that no other government had undertaken resettlement of victims on such a large scale. Mulayam went out of his way to woo the Muslims. Highlighting their contribution towards nation-building, he said, “Minorities should not be viewed with suspicion.” Farmers and Muslims have contributed

80% to the development of the country. While farmers increased agricultural produce, Muslims promoted handiwork, he pointed out. “Almost 80% of the clothes we are wearing have been made by Muslims. The major contribution in making weapons for the security of the country is that of Muslims,” he said and even cited example of former President APJ Abdul Kalam to buttress his claim. Referring to the Sachar committee report, the SP supremo said it had stated that socio-economic condition of Muslims was worse than Dalits and recommended special facilities for them. In a message to the party workers, he said they should remember that indisciplined people never win. “If you have to lodge a complaint then write a letter, but don’t maintain indifferences or indiscipline,” he said. Referring to Bundelkhand, he said that only SP worked for the development of the region and recalled how the party persuaded former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to arrange water for the area and made provision for special fund. Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav launched and laid foundation of development projects worth Rs 900 crore on the occasion. “There is not much time left in the Lok Sabha elections. All parties are preparing for that and we have faith in you people. After this the ‘samajwadis’ (socialists) will not get a chance like this,” he said.

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Photo source: PTI

Sukhbir better administrator than me: Badal

day after commenting that he was not willing to retire from politics, chief minister Parkash Singh Badal on Saturday praised his son and deputy Sukhbir Badal saying the latter was a better administrator than him, again igniting speculations about his elevation to the top post. In his speech on the concluding day of the NRI Sammelan, Badal

termed Sukhbir as “a better administrator, hard worker and visionary”. “It’s the dream of every man to see his son grow and prosper better than him. Like every proud father, I can now say that Sukhbir has more potential than me and can better serve the state,” said Badal, who is currently serving his fifth term as chief minister. He said Sukhbir’s spirit to serve Pun-

jab was stronger than his and his ideas best suited the present-day politics of development. Badal said, “In our days, the political scene of the state was different and it was a politics of struggle. In those times, a politician’s success rate and his spirit to serve the state were gauzed from the number of days he spent in jail. Now, it’s different. It’s a politics of development now and

Sukhbir knows it as his entire approach is development oriented.” Badal, who during the last year’s NRI sammelan, had slammed NRI affairs minister Bikramjit Majithia, on Saturday praised him saying “Majithia da vi daur hun aaya hai (Majithia’s time has finally come),” as he appreciated him for successfully organising the event. The chief minister regretted that

whenever the Akali Dal had raised its voice against the Centre, it was branded as a terrorist outfit. “But now, it’s a matter of pride that the same party has ruled a sensitive state like Punjab better than the Congress. The SAD-BJP alliance in the state has emerged as the most secular ruler. All communities feel themselves to be a part of the alliance government and are secure,” Badal told NRIs.

Photo source: PTI

‘Nuclear plant in Haryana will risk lives’

wo anti-nuclear groups with separate list of demands have started protests against the proposed nuclear power plant at Gorakhpur

January 2014 Edition

village in Haryana. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will lay the foundation stone of the plant on Monday. Members of the Parmanu

Virodhi Morcha, a coalition of anti-nuclear energy NGOs, held a protest march against land acquisition by Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL)

while members of the Akhil Bharatiya Bishnoi Jeev Raksha Samiti staged protests on environmental issues. Parmanu Virodhi Morcha

president Subhash Punia said, “We are seeking support of former Army chief VK Singh and others. Political leaders from Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) and Haryana Janhit Congress (HJC) have also assured us of support.” Akhil Bharatiya Bishnoi Jeev Raksha Samiti members claim the Badopal area, where NPCIL has acquired 125 acres of land, was originally meant for residential purposes. “In a recent reconnaissance conducted on the township site, the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun observed that the land acquired by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India is a natural habitat for Blackbucks and Blue Bulls. The WII recommended that the project township be moved elsewhere and the area under preview be set aside as a wildlife reserve,” said Samiti member Vinod Karwasra. The Parmanu Virodhi Morcha president accused the government of putting people’s lives at risk with their dependence on canal water. “The main problem NPCIL will face is water. They (NPCIL) are totally depending on canal water and a nuclear power plant requires huge amounts of fresh water to keep the power plant cool. Totally depending on canal water is not right. We will protest till the government accepts our demands to close the power plant as soon as possible,” said Punia.

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Babloo Happy Hai : It will tickle your funny bone a bit!

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Modi presses panic button on AAP

t seems Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi has finally realized that more than any other politician, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal has the potential to ruin his chances of becoming the country’s Prime Minister. Sources in Modi’s core strategy team said that the chief minister is now seriously focusing on ‘strategizing afresh’ for his 2014 Lok Sabha election campaign. This comes immediately after AAP staked claim to having made over 1.25 lakh members across Gujarat in 10 days. Their membership drive was launched on January 1. AAP state convener Sukhdev Patel on Friday claimed that 5,000 members from the city enrolled with the party on a single day. Sources said that leaders of Delhi unit of BJP, members of the Citizen for Accountable Governance (CAG), and other highly qualified young professionals roped in by Modi last year, met the Gujarat chief minister recently. “Even senior BJP leader of Delhi, Dr Harsh Vardhan, rushed to Gandhinagar last week at short notice and had a long meeting with the Gujarat CM. CAG members and other Modi strategists discussed possible ways of countering Kejriwal,” said a source. Sources said that Modi had asked CAG members and BJP workers to synchronize their efforts and launch a major campaign against AAP in Delhi from Januaryend or February. “CAG will focus

January 2014 Edition

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he makers of Babloo Happy Hai have released the trailer of the film and while it may not make you go all LOL, but it will surely tickle your funny bone a bit. After watching this two minute theatrical, you get a clear idea about the plot of the film. The trailer gives a sneak peek into the story or rather problems of Jatin (Sumit Anand, Karan Johar‘s Student Of The Year fame) – the endearing and young groom-to-be. The dude is on a bachelor vacation with his buddies Harry (Sumit Suri) and Rohan (Amol Parashar), but this vacation turns out be a problem for him when Natasha (Erica Fernandes) enters the scene. Natasha is an important character of this tale, who kick-starts it all with (what Jatin assumes is) a one-night stand after the bachelor party. The assumed one night stand is followed by numerous meetings – some coincidental, others deliberate – driving Jatin in a pit of problems. It gets worse when Tamana (Preet Kamal), Jatin’s girlfriend and the bride-to-be finds out about Jatin’s one night stand. Directed by Nila Madhab Panda, Babloo Happy Hai will release on January 31, 2014

on strategy and on attracting Delhi’s educated youth to the BJP. The party also plans to hit the streets to persuade supporters common to both the parties not to vote for AAP in the Lok Sabha elections,” source said. Delhi unit of the BJP has also been instructed to attack Kejriwal and his core team on local governance issues so that they are unable to move out of

the national capital and replicate their efforts outside Delhi. “The Delhi will launch an aggressive campaign against AAP soon,’’ the source said. Sources said that Modi hopes to win all the seven Lok Sabha seats of Delhi which are currently held by the Congress. However, the Gujarat chief minister fears that AAP may play the spoilsport. Delhi’s seats are psychologically and

strategically important for Modi, sources said. Another key source said that to counter the growing popularity of Kejriwal and AAP in the metros and towns of the country, CAG and BJP have chalked out plans for 15 states where they will organize meetings of young professionals and students in groups of 100 to 200 persons, who will be briefed about Modi and BJP’s plans for

the country, the source said. New technology, different from the large public meetings organized across Gujarat using 3D technology during the 2012 Gujarat polls, will also be used. “CAG and BJP volunteers across the country will hit the streets from January-end for the Statue of Unity campaign and counter media hype around AAP,’’ sources added.

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ilently, the warp and weft of Indian families is changing, perhaps forever. Women are getting married later, they are having babies later and the gap between successive children is getting larger. Put this together with the fact that the average number of children born to a woman continues to decline, and children survive more than in the past, and you can see that families are being much more consciously organized than ever before. There are differences between states, between regions within states and a persistent gulf between rural and urban areas. But the over-arching trends are unmistakable. These striking patterns emerge from an analysis of the recently released details of the 2012 Sample Registration System (SRS) survey carried out by the Census office. The survey covered 7.35 million persons. In 2012, about 25 million babies were born to women in the reproductive age group of 15 to 49 years. That’s about 82 births for every 1,000 women, called the general fertility rate (GFR). It’s a considerable decline of 18% from a decade ago, when the GFR was nearly 100. But it is the finer details of births that reveal fargoing changes in families. Three quarters of all babies were born to mothers between

the ages 20 to 29. The earlier custom of teen marriage and teen motherhood has declined by over 32% in a decade. About 43% of babies are born to mothers 20-24 years old. But there is a sharp divergence after that. In the 25-29 age group, births fall dramatically in rural areas while in urban areas an increasing number of women prefer this age to have their children. Rural fertility is often high in the 20-24 age group as the age at marriage still remains low and adoption of temporary contraceptive methods is relatively less, explained K S James, professor and head of the Population Research Center, Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC), Bangalore. “A sharp decline in fertility beyond the 20-24 age group happens because in rural areas the trend is to have marriage followed by two quick children and sterilization. Various surveys show that the average age at sterilization is very low in India,” he said. In urban areas, age of marriage remains higher resulting in births taking place in the 25-29 age group as well. While 53% of births are in the 20-24 age group, 47% are in the 25-29 age group. Another dramatic change from previous years is the interval between births. For the first time,

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In new India, women want late marriage and children

more than half the current births in urban areas were three years or more after the previous birth. In rural areas, such a birth interval was observed among 40% of current births. This is due to higher prevalence of temporary contraceptive use in urban areas, says James. In India, there has been an “over-emphasis on sterilization” according to James, leading to lower birth intervals. As families become more confident of using temporary

contraceptives, birth intervals can be managed effectively. Statewise trends show that the three big states in eastern India -Assam, West Bengal and Odisha -- and Kerala in the south all have more than half the current births after three-year gaps. But in many north Indian states like Bihar, Rajasthan, MP and Chhattisgarh as well as the three southern states of Tamil Nadu, AP and Karnataka, the three-year interval is seen in less than 40% of current births.

Between 2000-02 and 2010-12, the GFR has declined by nearly 25% in several states including UP, West Bengal, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Haryana. Laggard states in terms of the decline include Gujarat (a decline of only 11%), Bihar (17.3%) and Karnataka (17.4%). Kerala (10%) and Tamil Nadu (17%) too have smaller declines, but their fertility rates are already well below the national average.

Delhi businessman abducted for Rs. 2cr, girlfriend behind it

Delhi businessman was recently released by his kidnappers after he paid the first instalment of a Rs. 2-crore ransom, only to find out his girlfriend had hatched the entire plot. Four professional kidnappers from Haryana, including a national-level kabbadi player, have been held for the abduction, police said Saturday. They were hired by four employees of the businessman and have been identified as Shivika Chauhan – the girlfriend — Arun Vohra, Sunny and Raj Walia. All four are still absconding. Police said Shivika was cheating Saurabh Ahuja (24) as she was also in a relationship with Arun Vohra, said to be the mastermind of the plot. To make the abduction more real, the conspirators also staged their own kidnapping along with Ahuja’s and remained confined with him in a room in Najafgarh, police said. While in the room, each of the staff

January 2014 Edition

pressured Ahuja to pay the ransom by claiming they had arranged for Rs. 80 lakh for their safe release. Scared, Ahuja asked his family to pay Rs. 18 lakh as advance money and not to report it to the police. Ravindra Yadav, additional CP (crime branch), said the professional kidnappers have been identified as Sunil Rathee, Krishan, Ravi Hooda and Sandeep Sharma. Krishan is a national-level Kabbadi player while Sharma is a hotel management student. Ahuja was kidnapped on December 22, 2013 from his company’s rest house in outer Delhi. The conspirators had mixed sedative in his drink after which he became unconscious. Police said Ahuja was released on December 25 on the condition that he will pay back his four employees Rs. 80 lakh, which they had arranged for their release.

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A man-eater shouldn’t be India’s next PM: Beni on Modi

nion steel minister Beni Prasad Verma on Saturday said the country needs a prime minister, not a “man-eater”. Without naming BJP’s prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi, Beni Prasad Verma said, “We need a future prime minister, not a man-eater.” He was addressing a convention of people belonging to dalit, backward and minority communities. The minister on this occasion also said that the country is well aware of his (Modi’s) antics.

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Study in US: start applying for scholarships, credit transfers early

andidates must look into and start applying for scholarships when planning to go to the US for higher studies, which is an ongoing process since deadlines and criteria vary. The timeline for acceptance into a school will depend on the type of admission you are applying for (early action, early decision,

January 2014 Edition

rolling, etc.), but if you are applying for regular admission, acceptance letters are usually sent out in March or April, after which you need to decide which school you will be attending. Subsequently, you will be required to do the needful when it comes to accepting an offer and notifying the rest of the colleges to

which you applied that you will not be attending. Sending your latest school transcripts and test scores to the colleges that you’ve applied to is also necessary. “Work on obtaining transfer credits. The earlier you plan, the easier it will be, as you would have taken the right AP classes, precollege courses, etc. in order for

you to be awarded transfer credits that will add value to your major in the immediate future. You should start applying for these a month or two before you depart. Also start registering for classes when registration opens up so that you can be sure to get the classes that you want and need,” says Nina Merchant, a Mumbai-based academic counsellor. The College-Level Examination Programme (CLEP) gives you the opportunity to save up to an academic year of study by earning college or university credit for work you have already done. Students must also understand the difference between a scholarship and financial aid. A scholarship is a grant of funding, which may take the form of a waiver of tuition and/or fees. This merit-based aid depends on your achievement in a particular area; for example, outstanding academic performance, special talent in sports or performing arts, community service or leadership. A financial aid, on the other hand, is a general term that includes all types of funding, loans, and work/study programmes offered to a student to help pay tuition, fees, and living expenses.

This need-based aid looks at the student’s financial need, as documented by family income, assets, and other factors. The United States India Education Foundation (USIEF) offers a wide range of exchange opportunities to Indian citizens in three main categories: Student awards to pursue a master’s degree or attend a US university as a visiting student researcher; scholars and teacher awards for academics, teachers and professionals to teach or conduct research in the US, and professional development programmes for leadership and skill development. Besides providing opportunities for personal, academic and professional growth, Fulbright-Nehru and other exchanges promote mutual understanding between the people of the US and India. Students can apply for scholarships, too, which include the undergraduate Tata Scholarship at Cornell University which supports around 20 scholars at a time; the Brandeis University merit-and need-based scholarships at the graduate level; and the University of California Berkeley Fellowships at the graduate and post-doctoral levels, among others.

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PM urges young Indians to be inspired by Vivekananda

New blood test could be used to predict if a patient will have a heart attack

atients who suffer heart attacks have unique cells present in their blood, according to a new study. The “significant” findings published in the journal “Physical Biology” could potentially be used to predict whether a patient is about to have a heart attack by testing for circulating endothelial cells (CECs). As one person in the UK dies from a heart attack every seven minutes, the test is potentially lifesaving if used by doctors. Over a 100,000 heart attacks a year in the UK are caused by the build-up of fatty plaque on the walls of a person’s blood vessels. If this wall breaks, plaque can be released into the bloodstream: blocking the blood-flow into vessels around the heart. However, researchers at the Scripps Research Institute in California have discovered that CECs were also released into a patient’s blood. The study assessed 79 patients who had suffered a heart attack, 25 who were healthy, and seven who were receiving treatment for diseased blood vessels. Scientists concluded that the presence of CECs in a person’s blood after a heart attack was something not seen in healthy controls. Prof Peter Kuhn, who worked

January 2014 Edition

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Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Sunday urged every young Indian, irrespective of faith and religion, to be inspired by Swami Vivekananda. “I urge every young Indian, irrespective of faith and religion, to be inspired by such a man as they build their own future,” said the Prime Minister Office on his Twitter page on the closing ceremony of Vivekananda’s 150th birth anniversary celebrations in New Delhi. Congress president Sonia Gandhi and defence minister AK Antony also paid tributes to Swami Vivekananda – a philosopher and a religious scholar. “Let us, in all humility, imbibe these lessons from Swami Vivekananda... learn to be tolerant of one another, have respect for all religions,” the tweet added. “India’s true liberation would come when every Indian feels liberated from the scourge of poverty, ignorance and disease. India, this great motherland of ours, has much to learn from the world around us and, equally, much to teach the world,” the prime minister said.

on the project, explained that the results of the study are “so significant” that the next step is to establish how the findings can be used to identify patients during the early stages of a heart attack. He added: “There are plenty of other ways to suggest that you

are at long-term risk of a heart attack and there are good ways of diagnosing that you have just had a heart attack but what we don’t have is the ability to say ‘you will very likely have a heart attack in the next three weeks and we need to do something about this

now’.” However, Dr Mike Knapton of the British Heart Foundation, said: “In the short to medium term, it is unlikely to change how people in the UK are treated as we already have good ways to treat and diagnose heart attacks,

and targets to ensure rapid painto-treatment times. “This study appears to be laying the groundwork for future research to see if this test could be used to identify patients in the early stages of a heart attack.”

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Indians in New Zealand viewed positively: India-born MP

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ndian immigrants in New Zealand are viewed very positively and they seldom face race-related issues, according to Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, the first Indian member of parliament (MP) in that South Pacific island nation. Bakshi’s comments come

January 2014 Edition

after media in New Zealand reported the case of an Indian IT professional who alleged that he was a victim of racism. Sandesh Gopal, 30, a software project manager from Bangalore, said a bouncer stopped him and his friend from entering a bar at Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour on

New Year’s Eve without giving a proper reason. Gopal alleged that he and his friend were singled out and asked to show identity proofs after which the bouncer told them that they could not enter the bar even as other white customers were allowed in. According to Bakshi, who

was here for the 12th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD), the annual gathering of the Indian diaspora that concluded Thursday, Gopal’s case was a rarity and it would definitely be taken up by the authorities concerned. “You must know that the human rights commission in New Zealand is very proactive. Even if you don’t take the case to them, they will take it up on their own if they come to know about it,” the Delhi-born MP from New Zealand’s ruling National Party told IANS in an interview here. Asked if he has taken up the case, he said: “I couldn’t as I was leaving for India (to attend the PBD). I will definitely take it up once I reach New Zealand.” A bachelor of commerce degree-holder from Delhi University, Bakshi had moved along with his family to New Zealand in 2001 in search of better business and educational prospects. He soon became active among the business community as well as the Indian community, which is around 155,000 strong. He was elected to parliament in New Zealand in 2008 form the National Party list, meaning he was elected according to a proportional system based on the number of seats a party wins through direct elections.

According to Bakshi, Indians in New Zealand are perceived as very hard working people who are dedicated to their work. “Indians are seen as very dutiful who are dedicated to their work. If an employer in New Zealand hires an Indian worker, that employer will tend to keep hiring more Indians,” he said. “Indians don’t call in sick.” Pointing out that there are people from 80 ethnicities living in New Zealand, Bakshi said: “You might not know this but Hindi is the fourth most widely spoken language in New Zealand after English, Maori and Samoan.” The Auckland-based MP also stated that the New Zealand Indian Central Association (NZICA), an umbrella organisation of various Indian organisations in that country, is also active in looking after the interests of Indians. Lingappa Kalburgi, chairman of the Auckland Indian Association and head of the business group of NZICA, who was also present, agreed with Bakshi. Kalburgi said that the NZICA is active the promoting the interests of Indians, be it political, educational or cultural. “We meet twice a month to discuss all such issues,” he said. Formed in 1926, the NZICA is the oldest Indian organisation in New Zealand.

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Software: The new battleground for carmakers

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chief Thomas Weber told Reuters. “Until now, cars retained the properties they had on the day they were purchased.” Daimler’s push shows software is emerging as a among new battleground carmakers seeking to use technology to make cars safer, more entertaining, and better at solving problems such as locating a parking space or the nearest hospital. While the aircraft industry has long relied on computers to fly planes, cars have been held back by insufficient broadband telecoms infrastructure, the price of computing power and regulatory limits to automation. But software is now set to become as important to carmakers as traditional engineering, according to Thilo Koslowski, an analyst with IT and research group Gartner. “What we are witnessing is a change that will impact the industry for decades to come,” said Koslowski, who used to work at German luxury carmaker Audi. “The next venue of competitive differentiation will come from software.”

3D printing poised to shake up shopping

3D printing trend playing out at the Consumer Electronics Show bodes a future in which shoes, eyeglass frames, toys and more are printed at home as easily as documents. Music star will.i.am even made a debut here as creative officer for 3D Systems, predicting that the technology will do for many basic items what iTunes did to the way people get songs. He predicted that within a decade, 3D printers will be common in homes and people will print out things like shoes, belts, eyeglasses and accessories instead of dashing to a shop to buy the items. “3D printers will be in your house like refrigerators, TVs and microwaves,” will.i.am said. 3D printing has been around for about 25 years but has seen a surge in popularity as the technology improves and costs drop to a point accessible for hobbyists, artists and entrepreneurs. Printers aimed at the home market typically use corn-based, biodegradable plastic layered and shaped using lasers and heated plates. “Think of it as laying microscopic bricks; layers and layers of these bricks,” said Roger Chang, chief executive of Singapore-based Pirate 3D, which makes a Buccaneer home printer that sells for $497. “Eventually, if you put enough bricks you get a building.” Brooklyn-based MakerBot was the only 3D printer company at CES five years ago. Now, it is surrounded by rivals on a large section of show floor devoted to

January 2014 Edition

the trend. “We feel like this is the year of 3D printing,” MakerBot spokeswoman Jenifer Howard said. “Now, entrepreneurs without major financial backing can create prototypes themselves and even do small-scale manufacturing. It changes the whole picture.” Along with objects such as figurines, chess pieces and appliance handles, printers can pump out ball bearings, gears and components for creations with moving parts. ”3D printing really is limitless,” Howard said. She noted that aerospace and defense contractor Lockheed Martin used MakerBot printers to make a part for a telescope set to launch into space in about four years. MakerBot printers have been used in Africa to make prosthetic hands at a fraction of what they might typically cost, according to Howard. Digital plans for the “robohand” have been downloaded 55,000 times, according to MakerBot, which makes a vast library of digital blueprints available free at its website. Fifth-generation Makerbot printers range from $1,375 to $6,500. “Once you start 3D printing, you actually look at the world differently,” Howard said. “Instead of thinking of going to the store, you say you can make it yourself.” 3D printing has gone from languishing to being an attentiongetting trend, but it will take

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he new MercedesBenz C-Class has cameras that can read road signs and sensors to judge distance to the car in front, but is not yet able to make full use of the hardware. What may sound like a shortcoming is in fact a deliberate strategy by manufacturer Daimler, and a sign of things to come for the global luxury car industry. Owners of the upscale Mercedes compact will be able to add new functions such as predictive cruise control which lets the car drive itself in some situations - by updating the car’s operating system when the technology becomes available. Taking their cue from gadget makers such as Apple, Daimler and rivals are developing cars to receive software updates that include new tools or even improve fuel efficiency, much in the way an iPad gets new capabilities with each successive operating system. That is a big change - and a potential saving - for an industry used to spending heavily to revamp ageing models. “We are entering a new era,” Mercedes-Benz development

“killer use cases” to get them into homes, according to NPD Group analyst Stephen Baker. “Most people aren’t printing their own cellphone cases or backpacks,” Baker said. “You can make an argument that 3D printing was languishing and now there is energy in a category that was pretty dull. We are probably a ways away from

disrupting manufacturing.” 3D Pirate’s Chang thinks independent toymakers will be among those leading to making 3D printing mainstream. “The same way iTunes allowed independent musicians to flourish by posting digital songs, indie toy designers can let their customers just print out the toys without worrying about economies

of scale or distribution deals,” Chang said. Andrew Boggeri of Las Vegasbased Full Spectrum Laser cited a study indicating that the average US home could save up to $2,000 annually by printing their own replacement for 27 commonly broken household items. “The US is a hotbed of 3D printing right now,” Boggeri said.

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Sidhu, Chhina in dinner diplomacy at Lok Sabha seat

t a time when uncertainty prevails over the candidature of threetime MP Navjot Singh Sidhu from Amritsar in the Lok Sabha elections later this year, his bête noire Rajinder Mohan Singh Chhina is leaving no stone unturned to stake claim for the party ticket. The name of senior BJP leader Arun Jaitley is also doing the rounds even as Sidhu has been maintaining that he would contest from Amritsar only and not from any other place. Sidhu’s name was also reported to be considered for Delhi West after he was earlier stated to be reluctant to contest from Amritsar for the fourth time. His wife too had openly aired her grievance on this. Local BJP and Akali leaders were in attendance at the Lohri celebrations organised by Chhina on Friday in what appeared to be an attempt to project Chhina as a unanimous choice for the party ticket. Notably, in the past Sidhu had objected strongly to the appointment of Chhina as Amritsar Improvement Chairman (AIT) in 2009 and had returned to his constituency only after Chhina was removed from the post. Sidhu has not been on good terms with Akali cabinet minister Bikram Singh Majithia either, triggering speculation that he was likely

January 2014 Edition

to pay a heavy price before polls due. On Friday night, Sidhu organised a dinner for BJP’s national organising secretary, Ram Lal, and secretary and Punjab affairs co-incharge, Shyam Lal Jajju, after the party’s core group meeting. Both leaders were invited by Chhina for the Lohri celebrations on Friday night, but could not attend, on the plea that the meeting continued for long. On Saturday morning, State unit BJP chief Kamal Sharma and party general secretary Ajay Jamwal accompanied Ram Lal and Jajju for breakfast and subsequent talks with Chhina. Notably, Sidhu’s wife Chief Parliamentary Secretary Dr Navjot Kaur Sidhu had shocked many after posting on Facebook that Sidhu was feeling “suffocated and sidelined” in the party and that projects pursued by him were being ignored. Later, Sidhu had come at loggerheads with Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal Badal after he started targeting the Badals openly alleging that works pursued by him were deliberately being ignored. There have been reports that the ruling alliance partners SAD and BJP are working on a swap formula where Amritsar and Ludhiana would be swapped.

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News A golden corridor: Smuggling is back at Kerala airports 20a

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t’s raining gold at Kerala’s Kozhikode international airport. Every plane landing from the Middle East here now carries 40-80 kg of the precious metal, translating into Customs duties between Rs 86.8 lakh and Rs 1.74 crore. That’s just one flight, one airport. The state has two other international airports, at Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, and the quantity of gold being brought in there is just slightly lower. Kerala gets an average of 120 flights from the Middle East a week. Do the maths. The UPA government first hiked the import duty on gold in January 2012, raising it to 2 per cent, from Rs

300 charged per 10 grams earlier. It was raised to 4 per cent in the budget for 2012-13, 6 per cent in January 2013, 8 per cent on June 5 and finally 10 per cent in August. The government hoped that the steps would check India’s rush for gold — and hence its burgeoning current account deficit. The rush, obviously, continues. What is being seen at Kerala airports, officials suspect, is smugglers using passengers as legal carriers of gold since the last month, ever since the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) busted a few gangs, caught bringing in gold using mainly young women. Indians who have stayed

abroad for at least six months are allowed to legally bring in up to 1 kg of gold, with import duty paid in foreign currency. Indians travelling abroad can get in gold jewellery worth up to Rs 50,000 in case of men, and Rs 1 lakh in case of women, duty-free. Customs data show that 1,983 kg of gold, mostly in the form of bars, was brought into Kozhikode after paying duty in 2013. There is a duty in dollars amounting to Rs 2.17 lakh on each kilogramme. In November alone, 236 kg of gold landed at the airport. On a December day, the airport saw a flight with 98 passengers bringing in 98 kg of gold. At the Kochi in-

January 2014 Edition

relief camps where the riots victims are staying. Salman Khan hinted that the matter has acquired a political colour as it was blown out of proportion. “If the head of the state (Akhilesh Yadav) is asking me to take part in a show, what am I supposed to say? And if I am going to be paid the price I command, why should I decline the offer? If I am going to Gujarat or my hometown Indore next, will that too become a big issue?” he said. Salman said in a political war, netas should fight it out among themselves without dragging actors into it.

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ctor Salman Khan, who along with other Bollywood actors has been criticised for performing at the Saifai Mahotsav in Uttar Pradesh, called the controversy a move by TV channels to boost their TRPs. “The aam janta can be fooled with the clippings of my dancing at the event and images of people suffering clubbed together. Viewers don’t understand these techniques, and actors who performed there can easily be perceived as insensitive,” he said. The Mahotsav took place 300 km from the Muzaffarnagar

picture heavily lopsided. The profit that can be made on 1 kg of gold brought in from the Middle East can be as high as Rs 4.60 lakh. After paying the duty, this is Rs 1.25 lakh to Rs 1.50 lakh. The price differential — with gold prices crashing globally in 2013 but not by much in India — means 1 kg gold now entails larger profits than 5 kg earlier. Between April and November 2013, the DRI arrested 206 people for gold smuggling across India, a jump of over 400 per cent over last year’s figure of 38. The DRI booked 576 cases worth Rs 211 crore in AprilNovember 2013-14, compared to 617 cases worth Rs 52 crore during the April-December period in last fiscal, showing a jump of over 300 per cent in amount seized. Customs and DRI sources admit lacunae in the system. A source said, “As per the law, we are not required to look into a passenger’s financial background. Our concern is only whether the person has stayed abroad for six months and whether he can pay Customs duty in foreign exchange. At present, the smugglers are using low-paid NRIs who are attracted to the commission, which ranges between Rs 50,000 and Rs 70,000.” Kochi Customs Commissioner Dr K N Raghavan says all the seizures that had taken place were following intelligence inputs. “Gold smuggling had come down in recent years. We are now brushing up our intelligence network,” he adds.

Khalsa seeks permanent release of 3 Sikh prisoners out on parole

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Don’t use actors to score in political wars: Salman Khan

ternational airport, 3,187 passengers officially brought in 282.65 kg in 2013. Thiruvananthapuram saw 221 passengers bring in 34.37 kg during the last year. While some of these passengers may be bringing in the metal for personal use, the large quantities make it clear that what is being seen is disguised smuggling. It is after nearly 23 years that gold smuggling has returned to the country’s airports, particularly in states like Kerala with a sizeable NRI population. The abolition of the Gold Control Act had opened the door to gold imports. Introduced in 1962, the Act banned individuals from owning gold in the form of bars and coins. In 1990, in the face of a foreign exchange crisis, India pledged 40 tonnes of gold with the Bank of England. When liberalisation came and the licence raj was abolished, the Act was also repealed. Passengers were allowed to bring in 10 kg and 5 kg of gold at different periods. In the second half of the ’90s, the Kozhikode airport in north Kerala — catering mainly to Malappuram district, home to 18 per cent of the state’s expatriates — came to be known as the country’s golden airport with huge legal arrivals apart from what can be presumed was smuggled in. Towards the end of the ’90s, gold smuggling ceased to exist as international and national prices were nearly in the same range. The import duty hike as well as restrictions on gold at home has once again made that

urbaksh Singh Khalsa, who was sitting on an indefinite fast to seek release of six Sikh prisoners who had completed their term, held a meeting with Sikh Bandi Morcha here on Saturday and demanded permanent release of the three prisoners who are out on parole for 28 days. “Gurmeet Singh, Lakhwinder Singh and Shamsher Singh, all three were sent to prison for19 years and they have completed 22 years in jail,” said Khalsa.

He added that the three have been completing all formalities as per the rules, so the government should release them. Khalsa was earlier sitting on a hunger strike at Amb Sahib Gurdwara in SAS Nagar, seeking release of the six prisoners who have completed their term. He said if the government failed to accept their demand regarding the permanent release of three Sikh prisoners, they will plan future course of action in the next few days.

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Kapil Sharma gets show-cause notice from Maharashtra women commission

ing sensibilities. And if you are on national television, the danger multiplies. Kapil’s apparently harmless banter has not gone down too well with certain women’s rights activists. An NGO has filed a complaint with

the Maharastra State Commission for Women. And the Commission has issued a show cause notice to the channel and the comedian demanding an explanation within a fortnight. The episode of Comedy Nights

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Reshmi Ghosh replaces Nigaar Khan in ‘Budhha’

auahar Khan’s been making headlines for the past few days. Now, her sister Nigaar Khan too is in the news. Nigaar, who was playing the negative role of Mangala in Buddha has quit the show due to date issues. According to sources, she had wanted to quit the show for some time now. When we contacted Nigaar, she said, “I was losing out on many offers due to my dates with the show. It was an amicable decision with the production house, so there are no grudges.”

January 2014 Edition

Resshmi Ghosh will replace Nigaar Khan. Reshmi, who married actor Siddharth Vasudev a few months ago, is excited about playing Mangala. It’s not just the role, but also the fact that Siddharth will be her onscreen husband that makes it all the more interesting for her. So, was Resshmi recommended for this role by Siddharth? “No, it is only a coincidence that Reshmi is playing Siddharth’s onscreen wife,” said Ridhwana, co-producer of Buddha.

with Kapil aired on January 5, had the host speaking about the dismal condition of Indian roads coupled with government apathy. During the act Kapil mentioned in jest that one advantage of having a pothole-riddled road is that trav-

Ankita Lokhande’s Pavitra Rishta likely to end

our years and multiple leaps later, Ekta Kapoor’s hit TV show, Pavitra Rishta, seems to have run out of steam. The show was initially flying high with ratings and had garnered immense popularity for its story, and the chemistry between the leads Ankita Lokhande and SushantSingh Rajput. But since Sushant’s exit, the ratings and the plot haven’t been the same. Although it achieved some stability after Hiten Tejwani replaced Sushant, last year, the ratings dipped again. A source says, “Ankita’s absence from the show for almost two months didn’t help matters. The latest twist in the plot — Anki-

Photo source: PTI

apil Sharma’s comedy show has not only earned him guffaws but also accolades. Today he is a name to reckon with in the television industry. But, cracking a joke is no joke, there is a constant risk of offend-

elling on such a stretch can help a poor, pregnant woman pop out the baby. This irked some NGOs who perceived it as disrespect towards women. They also had issues with the way two characters in the show, Dadi and Pinky, are portrayed. On January 7, Raj Asrondkar, who heads a social movement called Kaydyane Waga, met up with advocate Sushiben Shah, the chairperson of Maharashtra State Women Commission, and filed a complaint. When contacted, Asrondkar confirmed the news, “The comments on potholes are fine but talking about a pregnant woman in the same context is not funny. Also, Dadi is always shown drunk and Pinky is available to anyone.” Shah insisted that they were not against the show but women should be treated with dignity. “Few woman characters on the show are not portrayed correctly. Are Indian woman really like that? A show case notice has been sent to them and we have given them 15 days to reply.” Colors spokesperson denied receiving any such notice and said: “We have not got the notice yet. Hence, we won’t be able to comment on the matter as of now.”

ta’s double role — hasn’t caught the audience’s fancy.” It was also reported that actors Rithvik Dhanjani and Asha Negi, who joined the show as part of the younger generation, had issues playing Ankita’s parents post the recent 18-year leap. The makers are already planning to launch a new show. “Ekta is working on a new soap which will, in all likelihood, replace Pavitra Rishta. Though the show won’t end, it might be shifted to an earlier 7 pm slot, making the primetime 9pm spot free for the new show.” However when we asked Ekta about this development, she said, “No decision has been made yet.”

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22a

Food & Wine

indiantimes

Paneer Capsicum Chicken satey with peanut sauce Sabji Ingredients • • • • • • • •

Marinade:

1 cup hung curd 1 tsp freshly grated ginger 1 tsp minced garlic 1 tbsp curry powder 750 gms skinless, boneless chicken

• • •

breasts, cut into strips 20 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes Vegetable oil, for grilling Butter lettuce leaves

Peanut Sauce:

1 cup smooth peanut butter 1/4 cup soy sauce 2 tsp red chili paste, 2 tbsp brown sugar

• • •

2 limes, juiced 1/2 cup hot water 1/4 cup chopped peanuts, for garnish

Method:

Combine the hung curd, ginger, garlic and curry powder in a shallow mixing bowl and stir to combine it all. Place the chicken strips in the yoghurt marinade and gently toss until well coated. Cover and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for up to two hours. Thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers working the skewer in and out of the meat, down the middle of the piece, so that it stays in place during grilling. Place a grill pan over medium heat and brush it with oil to prevent the meat from sticking. Grill the chicken satays for three to five minutes on each side, until cooked thoroughly. Serve the satays on a platter lined with lettuce leaves and cilantro; accompanied by a small bowl of peanut sauce on the side.

Chicken is a rich source of lean protein and vitamin B6 and when clubbed with peanuts, is packed with nutrients, minerals and antioxidants, which make a healthy combo. So, try this delicious chicken satey with peanut sauce recipe, either as a snack, for lunch or dinner.

Sauce:

Combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, red chili paste, brown sugar, and lime juice in a blender. Puree this. Pour the sauce into a nice serving bowl and garnish with the chopped peanuts. Serve with chicken satay.

Photo source: PTI

Red Wine and Your Heart

rinking red wine has been portrayed by the media as a means of combating heart disease. Do these claims have any real medical basis? The main health benefit of moderate alcohol use appears to be related to its effect on the development of atherosclerosis or the accumulation of fatty plaques in the blood vessels, particularly the coronary arteries that supply the heart. These deposits decrease

January 2014 Edition

blood flow to the heart and may promote the formation of vessel-blocking clots, which can result in anginal chest pain or even a life-threatening heart attack. In this article, we examine the scientific literature behind these claims, both epidemiological (studies focused on disease within whole populations) and biological (studies focused on how the molecular components of red wine affect atherosclerosis).

Epidemiology:-

The moderate consumption of alcoholic beverages, defined as 1 to 2 drinks per day, has been suggested to increase overall survival rates in a number of different population groups. One standard drink is generally considered to be 1.5 oz of liquor, 5 oz of wine, or 12 oz of beer. The patient groups that appear to benefit most from light to moderate drinking, middle-aged men and women, are also those who are at increased risk for developing

cardiovascular disease. Thus, the reduction in total mortality that is associated with moderate alcohol consumption, generally a 30% reduction in risk, is believed to be the result of a reduction in the risk of developing atherosclerotic disease. When the data from 51 epidemiological studies were combined, they showed that the risk of coronary heart disease decreased by approximately 20% when 0 to 2 alcoholic drinks were consumed per day. Apparently healthy adults, patients with a history of heart attack, and patients with diabetes all appeared to benefit. Results from the large Health Professionals Follow-Up Study, a study in which 38,077 male health professionals who were free of cardiovascular disease were observed for 12 years, suggested that drinking 1 to 2 drinks per day, 3 to 4 days per week decreased the risk of having a heart attack by as much as 32%. The formation of an occluding blood clot in an artery that supplies part of the brain can lead to stroke. Light to moderate alcohol consumption was found to be associated with an approximately 20% reduction in the risk for ischemic stroke and may even be beneficial in preventing subsequent strokes. Alcohol intake from any type of alcoholic beverage appears to be beneficial, but some studies suggest that red wine confers additional health benefits. The regular drinking of red wine has been suggested as the explanation for the “French paradox,” the relatively low incidence of

coronary atherosclerosis in France as compared with other Western countries, despite the generally high intake of saturated fat in the French diet. Support for a more pronounced cardioprotective effect for red wine as compared with other alcoholic beverages first emerged from the Copenhagen City Heart Study, in which 13,285 men and women were observed for 12 years. The results from this study suggested that patients who drank wine had half the risk of dying from coronary heart disease or stroke as those who never drank wine. Those who drank beer and spirits did not experience this advantage. The additional benefit of red wine is supported further by an analysis of 13 studies involving 209,418 participants. This analysis showed a 32% risk reduction of atherosclerotic disease with red wine intake, which was greater than the 22% risk reduction for beer consumption. Other studies and reviews have failed to show a beneficial effect for red wine, however, and hence it could be concluded that other lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, socioeconomic status, or pattern of alcohol consumption may have played a role in giving wine drinkers an advantage in lowered rates of atherosclerosis. The chemical composition of red wine may contribute to its apparent benefit. A series of scientific studies suggests that the polyphenolic compounds in red wine, such as flavonoids and resveratrol, may play an active role in limiting the start and progression of atherosclerosis.

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travel

indiantimes

23a

Kodaikanal

Photo source: PTI

“Princess of Hill Stations”

Kodaikanal is the most beautiful and popular hill station in Tamil Nadu. It is located in the famous Palani Hills in Western Ghats and is known as the Princess of hill stations. Kodaikanal is situated about 7,200 feet above the sea level.

About

Photo source: PTI

Kodaikanal is the most sought after honeymoon destination in South India because of its scenic beauty and it has the attribute to leave any nature lover mesmerized by its charms. The word Kodaikanal means gift of the forest in local language. The dense forest with many varieties of trees, the huge rocks in the wilderness and the enchanting waterfalls, makes it a real gift for the tourists visiting this place. Kodaikanal is famous for eucalyptus oil, homemade chocolates, plums and pears. Kodaikanal is famous for the kurinji - flowers, which blossoms only once in twelve years. Woolen clothing is available at cheaper rates in the Tibetan refugee bazaar.

Places to See in Kodaikanal

Berijam Lake:- Lake Located 21 km from the city bus stand; Berijam Lake is surrounded by Upper Palni Shola Forest reserve hosting a large variety of flora and fauna. Some of the very useful medicinal plants like Digitalis, Pyrethrum, Dioscorea are grown here. Bryant Park:-Named after a British officer Glenn Bryant, Bryant Park holds an annual flower and vegetable show each year which attracts a large number of tourists all across the country. There also stands a glass house in the garden which hosts a wide collection of flowers, ferns and other plants. Shenbaganur Museum:-Shenbaganur Museum located in the city of Kodaikanal is a very beautiful museum depicting rare pieces of architecture from South of India. The museum is an initiative of the Sacred Heart College of Kodaikanal and it also houses a wide collection beautiful flowers and bird species which appeals to the senses of every new visitor of the place.

Photo source: PTI

Where to Eat

Astoria Veg Reasturant:-”one of the best and pure vegetarian hotel in kodaikanal, located in near the central bus stand, 100% tourist are like astoria when they come to kodai ,, food is very tasty, wonderful, and amazing,,, specially BREAK FAST is great GHEE RAVA MASALA DOSA, IN LUNCH IS SPECIAL SOUTH INDIAN THAALI.“ “a perfect place in Tamil Nadu for enchanting yourself with tibetian cuisine” Royal Tibet :- “If you are in the southern region, don’t forget to visit one of the famous hill station, Kodaikanal and after your reaching head directly to the Royal Tibet to cherish yourself with thukpa. Of course you have a variety of choice.....veg, egg, chicken, beef, mixed and so on. Astoria Veg Reasturant:“This is the only veg. restaurant in kodiakanal offering good food for Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks and Dinner. The location of the restaurant is excellent, Its near Bus Stand.

Photo source: PTI

How to reach There

By Road / Self Drive:- Kodaikanal is connected by Road with all important towns. Regular bus services are available from Kodaikanal to Madurai, Palani, Kodai Road, Theni, Dindigul, Thiruchirappalli, Kumuli, Bangalore, Coimbatore and Chennai. Kodaikanal is easily accessible by road from Chennai (439 kilometres) and Bangalore (305 kilometres). It’s only about 3.5 hours away from Madurai. But if you decide to drive just make sure your fuel tank is full because there are very limited gas stations on the way. By Train:-Many tourists take the rail route and get down at Kodai Road, which is about 100 kilometres away from the main town. From here, you can get a taxi. Being the only mode of transportation from Kodai Road to Kodaikanal, taxi rates are not all that negotiable. By Air:-The airport nearest to Kodaikanal is Madurai, about 120 kilometres away. Others in line include the Trichy airport and the Coimbatore airport, 150 kilometres and 175 kilometres away, respectively. From the airport, you can easily get a bus to Kodaikanal.

Best time to visit Kodaikanal

Photo source: PTI

Kodaikanal enjoys subtropical climate and the best time to visit is from September to May. Winters (November to January) are very cool with maximum temperature is about 30°C and minimum touches about 8°C. Summers (March to May)has the average temperature ranges between 20°C to 34°C . During summer, adventure activities trekking is enjoyable in Kodaikanal. Monsoons (June to September) has average rainfalls in Kodaikanal. Monsoon season is ideal for rain lovers to enjoy the scenic beauty of the place.

January 2014 Edition

Kodaikanal Hotels

For a couple, a room in budget hotels in Kodaikanal with heater facility could cost somewhere from Rs 800 to Rs 1,500. However, star hotels with aesthetically designed rooms could provide you a picturesque view of the hills from your window at somewhere around Rs 2,200 to Rs 3,500 for 1 night 2 day in Kodaikanal. Also, a decent deluxe room with a mini bar and an attached multi cuisine restaurant should not cost you more than Rs 2,000.

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Happy Republ Repub Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s salute

Saare jahaan se achcha hindostaan hamaraa hum bul bulain hai is kee

vo santaree hamaraa, vo paasbaan hamaraa godee mein khel tee hain is

mazhab nahee sikhataa apas mein bayr rakhnaa

6th January 1950 is one of the most important days in Indian history as it was on this day the constitution of India came into force and India became a truly sovereign state. In this day India became a totally republican unit. The country finally realized the dream of Mahatma Gandhi and the numerous freedom fighters who, fought for and sacrificed their lives for the Independence of their country. So, the 26th of January was decreed a national holiday and has been

recognized and celebrated as the Republic Day of India, ever since. Today, the Republic Day is celebrated with much enthusiasm all over the country and especially in the capital, New Delhi where the celebrations start with the Presidential to the nation. The beginning of the occasion is always a solemn reminder of the sacrifice of the martyrs who died for the country in the freedom movement and the succeeding wars for the defense of sovereignty of their country.

Then, the President comes forward to award the medals of bravery to the people from the armed forces for their exceptional courage in the field and also the civilians, who have distinguished themselves by their different acts of valour in different situations. To mark the importance of this occasion, every year a grand parade is held in the capital, from the Rajghat, along the Vijaypath. The different regiments of the army, the Navy and the Air force

lic Day 2014 the Nation

e, ye gulsitan hamaraa parbat vo sabse unchaa hum saaya aasma kaa

s kee hazaaron nadiya gulshan hai jinke dum se, rashke janna hamaraa hindee hai hum, vatan hai hindostaan hamaraa

march past in all their finery and official decorations even the horses of the cavalry are attractively caparisoned to suit the occasion. The crĂ¨me of N.C.C cadets, selected from all over the country consider it an honour to participate in this event, as do the school children from various schools in the capital. They spend many days preparing for the event and no expense is spared to see that every detail is taken care of, from their practice for the drills, the essential props and their uniforms. The parade is followed by a pageant of specttacular displays from the different states of the country. These moving exhibits depict scenes of activities of people in those states and the music and songs of that particular state accompany each display. Each display brings out the diversity and d richness of the culture of India and the whole show lends a festive air to the occasion. The parade and tthe ensuing pageantry is telecast by the National Television and is watched by millions of viewers in T every corner of the country. The patriotic fervor of the people on this day brings the whole country together even in her esssential diversity. Every part of the country is represented in occasion, which makes the Republic Day the most popular of all the national holidays of India. o

26 January 2014 The Republic Day is celebrated in India on the 2 January. The day marks the sovereignty of the 26 country, as in 1950 on this day the Constitution o India was adopted. The signature celebration of o the event is the Republic Day Parade, which is of held in the capital city.

Significance The Republic Day is celebrated in India on 26 J January every year as the day when India became a sovereign state in the true sense of the word. It was on 26 January 1950 that the Constitution o India was brought into force as the governing of document d of India, replacing the Government of India Act (1935). 26 January was honoured with this celebration as the declaration of Indian independence (Purna Swaraj) was proclaimed by the Indian National Congress on this day in the year 1930.

Date and Timing The Republic Day 2014 will be celebrated on 26 January, the Sunday. This day will be observed as a national holiday. All the public offices and schools will remain closed to celebrate the spirit of patriotism on this day.

Celebrations The entire nation comes alive with patriotic fervour on this day, but the principal celebration of the Republic Day takes place in the national capital, New Delhi from 9 a.m. and continues for about three hours. This historic occasion becomes a national festival with the involvement of people from all over the country. The day symbolizes the unity of the nation as it brings together people from different castes, creed, religions and regions to celebrate the day with the pride of being an Indian. The celebration takes place at the Rajpath with great enthusiasm and pride, which can be experienced by any individual as the Republic Day Parade is a ticketed event. The tickets for the same can be bought a couple of weeks before the event.

Republic Day Parade The grandeur of the Republic Day of India is visible in the grand parade that is held along Rajpath, beginning from Raisina Hill near the Rashtrapati Bhavan and ending at India Gate. The occasion witnesses the presence of the President, the Prime Minister and several other high-ranking officials of the country. The parade starts when the Prime Minister of India offers wreaths at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at the India Gate, in memory of the martyrs of the Indian army. The national flag is unfurled by the President of India, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces. This is succeeded by the cheerful tune of the National Anthem and a 21-gun salute. The different regiments of Navy, Army and Air Force display their might along the Rajpath, saluting the President. The Armed Forces staff performs motorcycle rides whereas the staff of the Indian Air Force performs flying parade in fighter planes. The rich and colourful culture of India is show-

cased in the parade of the Republic Day. Traditional as well as cultural performances are given by professionals belonging to different regions. School children in picturesque costumes also participate in the display of different aspects of the glorious history of the country on this big day. The real heroes of the nation are honoured with the bravery awards and medals. National Awards are given to children for selfless sacrifice and bravery. A row of IAF jets marks the end of the grand celebration, leaving behind a trail of coloured smoke. It bids goodbye to the gathered audience by lavishing rose petals on them.

Repulic Day celebrations across the country Apart from the grand celebrations in the capital, the Republic Day is also celebrated in different parts of the country at different levels, such as capital cities, district headquarters, panchayats, schools as well as offices. In Mumbai, people may attend Republic Day Parade at Shivaj Park. In Bangalore, people may celebrate Republic Day at the Field Marshal Manekshaw Parade Ground, which holds a parade as well as cultural fair. In Kolkata, people may enjoy the Republic Day parade held along the Red Road. In Chennai, Republic Day celebrations take place at Marina Beach and Kamaraj Salai.

Beating Retreat The Republic Day celebration ends officially with the Beating Retreat ceremony, which is held on the 29 January every year. The Indian Air Force, the India Navy, and the Indian Army at the Raisina Hill, New Delhi become a part of this ceremony in front of the President of India, who is the chief guest.

Highlights of 2014 Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Republic Day 2014 will receive the Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe, as the chief guest at the celebration.

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January 2014

Jai ho

...Salman Khan

‘Jai Ho’ is a Bollywood launch pad for four actors

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4b Bollywood

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Akshay Kumar walks out of Gutka?

ans were eagerly expecting yet another surprise in 2014 with Akshay Kumar and Karan Johar coming together for Gutka. But looks like the association ended mid-way, since we learnt that Akshay has walked out of the

film. Karan recently revealed that he would love to do a movie with Akshay but currently Gutka surely isn’t one of them. While buzz is that the movie will be shelved, Karan, however, maintained that the details are being worked out.

Though the filmmaker decided to keep mum about the sudden exit of Akshay, it is being said that the actor wasn’t happy with the final draft of the script. Gutka is about the gutka trade and business which was supposed to be directed by Punit Malhotra.

Picture source: lightscamerabollywood

John’s next film with Shoojit based on football

fter two successful films, Vicky Donor and Madras Cafe, Shoojit Sircar will soon be teaming up with actorproducer John Abraham again for a film based on football. Apparently, the film focuses on Mohun Bagan’s victory against the East Yorkshire Regiment on July 29, 1911.

Confirming the development, Shoojit stated that he decided on gifting the script to John as an advance wedding gift. Further adding that owing to their shared love for the sport, the script which tells an inspirational story was the perfect gift. Currently, the yet untitled film is in pre-production stage.

p U n a e l C

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a r P n u r A e k

In 2008, Arun Pratap Singh was looking for an opportunity to supplement his banking sector MRGSQI ,I [ERXIH WSQIXLMRK XLEX [EW ¾I\MFPI [MXL LMW HEMP] VSYXMRI XLEX LI LEH XSXEP GSRXVSP over and could be in charge. And he found it in a Jani-King Commercial Cleaning Franchise. With the majority of Jani-King’s work taking place in the evening, it’s the ideal choice for those [ERXMRK XS FSSWX XLIMV GEWL ¾S[ EJXIV LSYVW SV GEVZI SYX E GEVIIV MR XLI I\GMXMRK [SVPH SJ franchised commercial cleaning. Today, Arun and his business partner Anuj are cleaning up as Jani-King Commercial Cleaning Franchisees and independent business owners with the full support of Jani-King Australasia right behind them. Contact Gilles Delord today at Jani-King Melbourne today on 03 9265 2200 or email jkvic@janiking.com.au and discover what it’s like to be “The King of Clean!”

January 2014 Edition

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Bollywood

indiantimes

Picture source: lightscamerabollywood

I can romance anybody, says Priyanka Chopra

Actress Priyanka Chopra says she can romance anybody in her films, so why just talk about megastar Shah Rukh Khan. Priyanka has delivered two hit

films ‘Don’ and ‘Don 2’ with SRK. When asked if she and Shah Rukh would make better co-hosts as far as romance and comedy on the stage is concerned, Priyanka

said, “I can romance anybody, why just him... That is my job.” Priyanka arrived late for the Filmfare awards press conference, which was scheduled

to begin from 7.30 pm but it started after 9 PM as the actress was held up in traffic. “I used to come late earlier also, it is not something that is dependent on

my mood. I was shooting and then got stuck in traffic... Sorry for being late. I broke my new year resolution of not coming late because of work and traffic.” The actress will be hosting 59th edition of Filmfare awards with Ranbir Kapoor and is nervous about it. “This is for the first time that I will be co-hosting the awards, I am very nervous. It’s scary and exciting... But if you don’t do tough things in life then there is no fun,” Priyanka said. In the past, Shah Rukh Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Ranbir Kapoor and Imran Khan have hosted the award show. “Shah Rukh, Saif, Ranbir, Imran, so many people have hosted the show and they have always set the standard. So, it becomes little scary and there is a pressure. Logically, the pressure applies on Ranbir. But I have been working very hard to make sure it will be lot of fun,” she said. Priyanka said if she had an option of co-hosting the award show with an actress, it would be Vidya Balan. “I think she (Vidya) is spontaneous and she is lot of fun,” Priyanka added. According to her, actress Deepika Padukone has given the best performance as an actress last year. The Filmfare awards will be held on January 24 at Yash Raj Films studio.

e is known for his endless energy, undying love for his craft and being a workaholic. But superstar Shah Rukh Khan says now he doesn’t work as much and feels inspired with others’ good work. Shah Rukh, who had only one release last year, superhit “Chennai Express”, featured in just one movie in 2012 - late filmmaker Yash Chopra’s last directorial venture “Jab Tak Hai Jaan”. Currently he is shooting for Farah Khan’s “Hapyy New Year”. “I have become laid-back and I have started working less. I feel happy if the quality of work that others do is good. I look at their performances and get inspired,” Shah Rukh told reporters. After being a part of the film industry for over two decades, SRK said he is over the initial excitement of being nominated. “I have been a part of so many award

January 2014 Edition

Picture source: lightscamerabollywood

I have become laid-back, work less: Shah Rukh Khan

functions that I have lost the system of waiting to see if I have been nominated. An award is a reflection of a whole years’s work. If I win, I feel thrilled ... if I don’t, then I think I will work hard next year,” he said. Now, the actor dedicates all his awards to his children - Aryan, Suhana and AbRam. “I dedicated my first award to my mom. Now I dedicate them to my children,” he said. “Either I keep it on my daughter’s or my son’s bedside table. I keep alternating. They get very happy,” he added. However, the Bollywood Badshah says the awards teach the right lessons to his children. “The next day (after winning the award), I take out some time to tell them that I have got the award due to my efforts, so that they concentrate on that rather than the stardom and glamour, which surround it,” he said.

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astrology

indiantimes

Monthly Astrology - JANUARY 2014 Aries – Mesha You may have to face many problems in your home-front and in respect of property-matters. Health problems of the family members may also cause you some concern. There might be loss of property and you may have forced change of residence. You may become tense, worried and pessimistic during this time. Dealing in land, buildings, building construction materials and could fetch you good returns.

Taurus – Vrushabha

You may suffer from skin diseases and feel nervous. Your sources of earning may get squeezed whereas you may not be able to control excessive expenditures. You may associate yourself with lower-class people for which your near and dear ones might feel concerned. By excercising will-force you must try to change your outlook. If you cannot change your behaviour-patterns, your popularity will be on the wane and people will start distancing themselves from you.

Gemini – Mithuna

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 and tranquil time to relax and 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.

Cancer – Kataka

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 realized and you may have new acquisitions that will add to your comfort. You will lead a prosperous and happy family- life; there could be a celebration in the family. The performance of your children will instill a sense of pride and joy in your mind. You may spend a lot for having some renovations done to your house-building.

Leo – Simha

You will have joyful home-life as your children will make you happy by their successes in academic pursuits and extra-curricular activities. You yourself can receive some acclaim and become distinguished by securing a lucrative promotion or some recognition in academic pursuits . Your earnings will increase considerably but you should avoid speculations for preventing possibility of losses; although you can opt for starting a new venture. You will become very popular in society in general and more so among the circle of your friends.

Virgo – Kanya

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. Your family-life will be joyous and comfortable with all it’s members becoming very loving and caring. There could be a happy celebration in the family. You may spend money for renovating the interiors of your house by decorations and procuring attractive furnitures while the exteriors may have a face-lift too.

Libra – Tula

You will be very fortunate and will receive special favours from the authorities. You will be successful in all your endeavours and rise to a powerful and lucrative position. Some of your cherished desires will be fulfilled and you may have new acquisitions. Your family-life will be happy with comfortable surroundings and socially you will gain more popularity. Your relationships with relatives and friends will become more cordial. You will be a centre of attraction in social gatherings.

Scorpio – Vruschika

You may have wasteful expenditures leading to financial difficulties. You should proper care about your health and you should also avoid speculations. Journeys during this period is far less to be fruitful excepting in the direction of north. Be cautious and go slow. In professional sphere, you may have

to overcome some obstacles and impediments; as some of your superiors may become openly enimical and try to block your prospects. Instead of becoming argumentative you should become more diplomatic and tactful by developing a compromising nature.

Sagittarius – Dhanu

This position will make you a busy person. You will have some of your writings published or have correspondences with many people. A number of short journeys you may also have. You will spend a good part of your time in informal studies and also enjoy sports activities., a little bit of a restless period, with increased amount of traveling, fatigue and change of places, and high expenses, there could be some smaller health complications too such as intermittent head or eye pains or excessive acidity and stomach disorders; beware of false allegations as some people jealous of you could make false allegations, if parents are living this is bit problematic month for the father too. Towards the end month the situation will gradually improve.

Capricorn – Makara

You may have problems either with your business or marriage partner and the health of your spouse may make you anxious. Romantic liaisons if any could take a bad turn and you may become a victim of slander and disrepute. You may be emotionally disturbed and may not be in good health. Journeys in connection with profession may not bear fruit excepting in the direction of east. For securing new deals the period is not favourable. You should try to avoid quarrels and confrontations by being diplomatic.

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. Aquarius – Kumbha

You will become very courageous and will conquer your enemies. 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

Pisces - Meena This is not a favourable position. You should take proper care of your health and you should also remain careful while driving as you will be prone to sustain injuries which can even make you bed-ridden. You should also keep a close check as fire can cause some havoc during this period. The health of your children may cause you some concern. You should try to overcome your argumentive tendency as this would otherwise lead you to have conflicts at your workplace. You should do better by staying away from any speculative investments for keeping your financial position in a stable condition.

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

It’s Good To Maximise Experience

he whole purpose of life is happiness. All of us strive for it; work towards it and deep inside feel that it is the ultimate goal. Different people have different definition of happiness but ultimately we all want it. Happiness is a state of mind and hence the purpose of life is to make your mind happy by maximising its experience which

January 2014 Edition

is facilitated by the body since body provides inputs through the senses. Maximisation of experience is influenced with the brain absorbing information from the senses and it creates neural pathways to form memories. This process is at the maximum rate during childhood when the brain is developing and also happens to those whose brains remain nimble throughout the

life. Therefore, we are what we think! Since the brain’s information absorption capacity is the maximum in childhood, good education and guidance to children is of paramount importance. By guiding children in the art of deep thinking and contemplation, their minds will remain supple and expand all their lives. Brains which do not have the ability to gain new

experiences get petrified and signal the start of slowdown which is normally the sign of old age. However, a number of individuals are active and curious even in old age and they are the most interesting people to be with, a joy. As the brain becomes bigger, as is in the case of humans, more experience is acquired. This mind expanding exercise is the genesis of wisdom since it gives the individual perspective in life. Gaining experience is enjoyable and mind-expansion brings happiness. Maximisation of experience is also achieved by travel since the environment changes, providing tremendous inputs to the brain. This is the reason why travel, especially to new places, is an enjoyable, learning experience. Experience gaining is also enhanced by curiosity. An active and supple mind is also a curious mind, and one can build on this by being mentally active --- something that can be enhanced by practice of yoga and meditation that enables expansion of neural pathways. Another reason why we feel happy when absorbing experience is because a furiously absorbing mind keeps psychological knots to a minimum. These knots are formed when, in the absence of external experience, the mind goes into an inward spiral. Then it cannot expand and so happiness

proves elusive. The old saying of “small and petty mindedness” probably came from this. A supple mind which maximises experience is also able to focus on a single thought for a long time. This is called Sanyam in Patanjali Yoga darshan. During this process of tremendous concentration, all sense of time vanishes. It is this losing of sense of time that gives contentment and peace as anxiety is reduced. Anxiety is about perceived fears and hence has time embedded in it. It may also produce fear of losing or missing out on something. A powerful mind which can analyse and process the information effectively makes time-sense disappear and thereby reduces sense of anxiety. Why are our brains wired for maximum experience? One reason is the large number of neurons in the human brain – about 100 billion -- which forces the intake of information and hence the experience. Another reason could be that the universal consciousness can only experience through bodies of living beings and hence the proliferation of species and the need for maximisation of experience through them. So let’s live a happy, fruitful and energetic life by maximising our experience. That is the whole purpose of life!

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Jai Ho Director:

Sohail Khan

Cast: Salman Khan, Tabu, Danny Den zongpa, DaisyShah, Nadira Babbar, Genelia Dsouza, Suniel Shetty

Picture source: lightscamerabollywood

ai, an upright common man is fighting a solitary war against corruption and injustice. Honest and incorruptible, he has made it his mission to help as many people as he can. His mantra is quite simple - help somebody and then request that person to lend a helping hand to somebody else - thus forming an ever growing circle of people helping each other. In a strange twist of fate, he finds himself pitted against a powerful politician and his vile family. Jai who is an ex army officer, will not shy away from a battle, however bloody it may get and firmly believes that you do not have to wear an uniform to serve your country. As the politician unleashes his violent goons on brave heart Jai, Geeta, Jai’s sister, realises the horrific consequences this can have on her brother and the rest of their family. She persuades a reluctant Jai to make peace with the politician. But when this leads to humiliation being heaped on him, Jai loses his cool and declares all out war. It is an unequal war - on side stand the politician with his numerous henchmen and on one side is Jai - alone. But unknown to him, a silent revolution is taking place. The voiceless public, he has helped in the past, is gathering force. It finally has a voice and this voice cannot...will not be silenced.

Because Jai Ho is the resounding sound of victory...Jai Ho is the warrior cry of someone determined to win at all cost..

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January 2014 Edition

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Picture source: lightscamerabollywood

Abhay Deol to produce a Marathi film

encouraging filmmakers then maybe that could be my way of bringing in change.” Talking about the Bollywood stars like Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, who have tried their hand at producing Marathi films, the actorturned-producer said, “I can’t act in a Marathi film, since I don’t speak the language. But I would like to produce a Marathi film. So that could happen.

It’s a dream to make a film on Maulana Azad: Aamir Khan

ollywood star Aamir Khan, who is the great grand nephew of Muslim scholar and nationalist Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Wednesday said it’s his dream to make a film

January 2014 Edition

on the life of the great leader. “I hope that someday I can use my capabilities, and through the art form that I practice, to make a film on Maulana Azad. It’s a dream to bring his life to a larger

populace of India,” he said at the inauguration of Apeejay Kolkata Literary Fest 2014. The actor wished he had met the freedom fighter and read excerpts from one of Azad’s

interviews in 1946. In reference to the interview, he said he was “amazed” by Azad’s predictions, a year before India’s Independence, of the partition of the sub-continent in 1947 and

Picture source: lightscamerabollywood

ctor Abhay Deol, who recently turned producer with his Hindi film One By Two, is keen to get into Marathi films as well. He shared, “I turned producer to make the kind of films I have done in the past. There are a lot of wonderful directors who have a hard time making that kind of cinema and I want to give them exactly what they want. If I can aid them and continue

the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. AKLF, running till Jan 13, will celebrate the secular views of Azad to coincide with his 125th birth anniversary.

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10b

pparently depressed over not getting films, Telugu actor Uday Kiran committed suicide by hanging himself on Sunday night, police said. Kiran, 33, is survived by his wife Vishita. Kiran, who acted in 19 films including three Tamil movies, ended his life in his flat at Srinagar colony around midnight. He was alone in the flat. Vishita, who had gone out for a family party, rushed to the flat after he did not respond to her mobile phone calls. He had refused to attend the birthday party of a relative in the city Sunday night and sent his wife for the same. Vishita grew suspicious when he did not respond to her phone calls after sending her an SMS reportedly expressing his love. She rushed to the flat where she found him hanging from the ceiling in the gym. With the help of neighbours, she shifted him to a hospital. She immediately took him to Jubilee Hills Apollo hospital where the doctors declared him dead. An autopsy was conducted on the body at government-run Osmania General Hospital. The body was later shifted to the mortuary at Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS). A police officer quoted his wife and other family members as saying that he was in deep depression for the last few days. Kiran was depressed over not getting

any new film since February last year. Family members told police that he was in touch with a Tamil filmmaker and was waiting for his phone call on Sunday. He became depressed when he did not get the call. Assistant Commissioner of Police Ashok Kumar told reporters that no suicide note was found. The police have registered a case of suspicious death after the medical examination of the actor. Investigators, who gathered clues at the flat, questioned security guard and the actor’s neighbours. They also seized his mobile phone and laptop for further investigation. Born Jan 26, 1980, Kiran began his film career with Telugu film Chitram, a romantic-drama in 2000. He had a meteoric rise in the industry as the first movie directed by Teja proved a hit. UDAY KIRAN’S LIFE AND WORKS This was followed by Nuvvu Neenu and Manasantha Nuvve, which were also huge success. The charming hero with romantic image began to be called ‘Hattrick Hero’. In 2001, he bagged Filmfare best actor award and achieved the distinction of being the youngest to bag the honour. After the initial success, offers started to dwindle. He faced a tough time in both professional and personal life.

He was engaged to superstar Chiranjeevi’s elder daughter Sushmita in 2003 but the marriage was called off for unknown reasons. Kiran’s last Telugu film was Jai Sreeram released last year. It was sequel to his earlier movie Sreeram. It was on Oct 24, 2012 he married his long-term friend Vishita. He hoped the marriage would bring good luck and revive his career. The incident has shocked the Telugu, Tamil and a section of Hindi film industry which had remade some of his hits. “He still has a good following and had a good future. There would have been bright chances to bounce back,” said RP Patnaik, a music director who has worked on some of Kiran’s films. Several Telugu film personalities expressed shock over Kiran’s suicide. Actor Srikant and director Teja were among those who rushed to the actor’s residence after the news broke. STARS MOURN KIRAN’S DEATH “Not just Uday Kiran, any actor will get into depression if nobody is signing him,” said Teja, who described him as a soft-spoken actor. Kiran’s death has sparked a controversy with a section alleging that he was deliberately sidelined by the top stars and produc-

Picture source: lightscamerabollywood

Uday Kiran: a case of suspicious death, say police

ers after his fabulous initial years. A group representing Brahmins (Kiran’s caste-group) alleged that two castes - Kamma and Kapu (to which a majority of Telugu heroes including the top four like Chiranjeevi, Balakrishna belong to) do not allow others to grow in the industry that produces highest number of films in the country after Hindi. Denying such a trend, Telugu Movie Artists Association President Murali Mohan however admitted to the importance of caste

in the Telugu film industry. “Till the Telugu movie industry was based in Chennai caste was not a factor but things have changed after it moved to Hyderabad,” said Mohan. Meanwhile, a lawyer filed a petition in State Human Rights Commission, seeking direction to the government to order probe into the actor’s suicide. Petitioner Arun Kumar alleged that four families were ruling the Telugu film industry and cited this as the cause for Kiran’s suicide.

Picture source: lightscamerabollywood

Cops investigate Boman’s son’s role in QNet scam

January 2014 Edition

Boman Irani’s son Danesh Irani was recently accused of being involved in the infamous QNet scam which amounted to about Rs. 425 cores after a complaint was filed against him by Gurpreet Singh Anand, a resident in suburban Mumbai. In his complaint, Anand had alleged that Danesh was actively involved in propagating the scam and had asked the authorities to investigate the matter. Throwing some light on the current scenario, joint commissioner of police (crime) Himanshu Roy stated that Danesh’s account is under scrutiny since his account holds a whopping amount of Rs 18 and have even revealed that they would call him in to record a statement. However, he also specified that they weren’t investigating only his account but the money trail in general which connects many individuals. However, defending his son, Boman reacted to the accusations strongly and claimed that his son was an agent in the year 2007-2008 like any other collegian but is currently residing in US for further studies and the amount in his account is a result of his hard earned money. He also stated that his son works as a multi-level marketing agent and that they are the law abiding citizens of the country.

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12b

Bollywood

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Eventograph photographs from latest B-Town Events

Zubair Khan at munna-bhai-sallu-bhaifirst-look-launch

Tina Dutta during Telly calendar 2014 launch

sholay-3d-special-screening

Anjali Arora at munna-bhai-sallu-bhai-firstlook-launch

Shresth Kumar at munna-bhai-sallu-bhaifirst-look-launch

Meenakshi Dixit-sholay-3dspecial-screening

Iman Ali and Ayan Mukherjee-the-wolf-of-wall-street-screening

January 2014 Edition

Sana Khan and Sukirti Kandpal-telly-calendar-2014

Giaa Manek during Tellycalendar-2014-launch

Muazzam Bag-munna-bhai-sallubhai-first-look-launch

Sachin Pilgaonkar-sholay-3dspecial-screening

Satish KAushik-sholay-3d-special-screening

Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak-the-wolf-of-wallstreet-screening

Krystle Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;souza-tellycalendar-2014-launch

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13b

Eventograph photographs from latest B-Town Events

Mughda Godse at health-magazine-silver-jubilee-edition

Sonu sood at health-magazine-silver-jubilee-edition

Evelyn Sharma at Sab Ke Satrangi Parivaar Awards 2014

Raveena Tandon at Sab Ke Satrangi Parivaar Awards 2014

Katrina Kaif at the-wolf-of-wall-street-screening

Deepshikha at Sab Ke Satrangi Parivaar Awards 2014

Shweta Tiwari at Jai Ho Movie Promotion

Salman khan at Jai Ho Movie Promotion

Sumona Chakravarti at Jai Ho Movie Promotion

Daisy Shah at Jai Ho Movie Promotion

Huma Qureshi at Dedh Ishqiya Premiere

Manish Paul at Dedh Ishqiya Premiere

Maria Goretti at Dedh Ishqiya Premiere

January 2014 Edition

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Bollywood

14b

indiantimes

Picture source: Picturelightscamerabollywood source: india-forums

The film industry had tagged Kamasutra 3D as porn: Rupesh Paul

amasutra 3D is in Âcontention for Oscar nominations, and the

filmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s director, Rupesh Paul, says that the film industry that frowned upon him Âearlier, has now

changed its stance. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Mumbai Âindustry tagged Kamasutra 3D as a B-grade porn film and us as

porn filmmakers. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how the industry Âstarted to supported us with the release of the first trailer.â&#x20AC;?

However, that changed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As we released the second trailer of our movie, the reactions changed drastically. The film started getting compared with the making techniques of Hollywood movies like 300 and Pirates of the Caribbean. But now with the Oscar news flash, all those frowns have changed to hugs and kisses,â&#x20AC;? he says. Reacting to the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;soft porn tagâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; that many gave the film, he says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I would just say that it is a big conspiracy against us. Maybe people who claimed it to be a porn flick, wished to get something of that sort out of it. But to their biggest disappointment, the Oscars have changed the entire scenario and snubbed off their wishes. They are just a minority whose faces have had the tightest slap.â&#x20AC;? About the buzz around Sherlyn Chopraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s over the top exposure in the film, he says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;As you see there is a section of fans for Kareena Kapoor, another section for Sonakshi Sinha, so is there a fan Âsection for Sherlyn. The requirement was unique and we were just trying to keep to the expectations of that Âsection. At the same time we had to do Âjustice to the storyline. So Sherlyn has been Âportrayed in a much needed sensuous manner, balancing the classy factor.â&#x20AC;?

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15b

bollywood music Yaariyan

Music Review :

Post the super-success of STUDENT OF THE YEAR, helmed by Karan Johar and AASHIQUI-2, helmed by Mohit Suri, which was a game changer, several studios as well as reputed raconteurs are executing qualitative projects with fresh faces. YAARIYAN, which marks the directorial debut of Divya Khosla Kumar, stands out from films of its ilk. Reason: While the principal cast boasts of freshers, the making, opulence and splendor is at par with any megabudget film attempted in Bollywood. The question that crosses your mind is, is YAARIYAN equally big in terms of content? Let’s evaluate... First, the plot! The film starts with the college principal [Gulshan Grover] summoning five students, handing them the responsibility of saving the college campus from a foreign hotelier who intends making a resort. The deal is that in order to save the college, the Indian students should outdo their Australian counterparts in the test of physical and mental abilities. While there are the expected ups, downs and betrayals, what triumphs in the end is friendship, as the title suggests. I genuinely believe that the teenage years are the best phase of your life. When one is well ensconced in the dreamy world. When life is yet to throw challenges towards you... Divya Khosla Kumar attempts to encapsulate that period through the lead characters of her movie. In fact, it won’t be erroneous to state that YAARIYAN attempts to pay tribute to that phase of an individual’s life. Evidently, Divya Khosla Kumar seems to be an ardent fan of movies such as JO JEETA WOHI SIKANDAR, KUCH KUCH HOTA

HAI, JAANE TU... YA JAANE NA, 3 IDIOTS and STUDENT OF THE YEAR, since there are faint echoes of such acclaimed films in her maiden endeavor. Of course, the premise of YAARIYAN is dissimilar and so are the character sketches. The first half of YAARIYAN has its moments of fun, although the narrative tends to go astray at times. If one were to pinpoint the deficiencies, the romance between the professors appears forced in the narrative. Also, Himansh’s cousin being attacked by members of the Australian team lacks conviction. The humor/liveliness also dries up after a point and one feels that the first half -- which commenced with lively and funny moments -- could’ve been succinct by at least 10/15 minutes. However, the writing gets consistent in the post-interval portions. The mountain biking race as also the rock climbing contest is the mainstay of the film. They are brilliantly executed! Prior to that, the tender moments shared by the lead pair works decently well too. Divya also gets the intensity in the emotional sequences spot on. Additionally, the dazzling locales and magnificent cinematography translate into a truly good looking film. Divya deserves kudos for accepting the challenge of directing freshers in her debut film. The best of storytellers are not afraid of taking risks and Divya seems to be one of those. Her handling of the humorous moments as well as the emotional ones with maturity confirms the fact that she knows the craft well. But one does feel that the writing could’ve been sharp edged at places. One of the

USPs of the film is -- no prizes for guessing this one! -- the musical score, which has the word ‘Chartbuster’ written all over it. In fact, every track has caught on big time with listeners, especially ‘Baarish’ [soulful], ‘Sunny Sunny’ [a rage with partygoers], ‘ABCD’ [foottapping], ‘Allah Waariyan’ [melodic] and ‘Meri Maa’ [makes you moist-eyed]. Cinematography is top notch, with the DoP [Sameer Arya] capturing the spectacular

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locales with flourish. The opening and end credits are also innovative and catch your eye! Now to the performances! Agree, the beginners don’t set the screen ablaze at the very start itself, but the performances grow on you gradually. Himansh Kohli is earnest and endearing. He has the makings of a fine actor. Rakul Preet looks beautiful and acts confidently. The way she emotes with her eyes is commendable. Nicole

Faria, Dev Sharma, Shreyas Pardiwalla, Serah Singh and Vikas Verma are appropriate in their respective parts. Evelyn Sharma looks gorgeous and does a fine job. On the whole, YAARIYAN has a gripping second half, smash hit musical score and the youthful romance that should lure and entice its target audience -- the youth. A treat for youngsters and young at heart!

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16b LOCAL News

indiantimes

Indian tourists flocking to Australia, says report

Photo source: PTI

ccording to latest data of Tourism Australia, a total of 134,000 visitors from India visited Australia during October this year, an increase of 9.5 per cent as compared to the same period previous year. According to its Tourism Forecast Committee report released earlier this year, visitor arrivals from India were predicted to rise by 7.5 per cent and 7.6 per cent to 1,63,800 in 2012-13 and 176,300 in 2013-14 respectively. “Markets expected to experience strongest gains in visitor volumes in 2012?13 are China (15.9 per cent), Malaysia (13.9 per cent), Singapore (12.5 per cent) and India (7.5 per cent),” it said. “This revision represents a difference of 6500 more visitors in aggregate. In the longer term to 2021-22, average annual growth of 7.2 per cent to 306,100 visitors is expected,” the report cited while note trends from Indian tourists. It said that average length of stay rose 20 per cent to 66 nights per trip while total nights in hotels, motels and guest houses and serviced apartments rose 17.2 per cent to 0.5 million compared with same period in 2011-12. “Visitor expenditure is fore casted to rise 19.8 per cent in 2012-13 to USD 867 million. In the longer term to 2021-22, average annual growth of 10.9 per cent is forecast to USD 2 billion,

Melbourne: Indian tourists are flocking to see beauty of Australia taking the total number of overseas travellers from the region to over 134,000 from January to October this year, a report said. representing an upward revision of USD 354 million,”?the?report predicted.

Last year, Tourism Australia had launched India 2020 Strategic Plan which was developed to

maximise India`s tourism potential and set a foundation for the future, when long haul leisure

travel by Indians becomes more common.

Australia & India Republic Day Celebration, 2014

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January 2014 Edition

Dear Friend,

FIAV and GC members wish you all a prosperous New Year and hope 2014 will be a wonderful year for the whole community. As you are all aware since 2009 on the 26th of January, FIAV and GC members have managed to bring the Victorian Indian community together to march under one banner representing unity in diversity of India. This year on 26th of January, let’s get together once again to honour mother India and celebrate Australia Day putting forward united front of all Indian communities. FIAV and GC members request you; your association members and friends to join hands; dressed up in your traditional code and bring musical instruments from your state. The whole Victorian Indian Community will assemble for the march at the corner of Burke and Swanston Street at 9:30 am. We will walk, presenting our rich Art & Culture on the way to Indian Consulate where we will be addressed by the

Consul General followed by delicious lunch organized by FIAV for everyone. Please RSVP for catering purpose and participation for march. FIAV and GC members have also organized, to showcase the talent from our community, on stage in front of thousands of spectators at Kings Domain Gardens between 12:15pm to 12:30pm. For performance please register ASAP as the places are very limited. Our organizing team will contact you for further information if required.

Event organizing team: Mr Subra Ramachandran

FIAV Secretary – secretary@fiav.asn. au, 0403 777 252

Mr Thomas Joseph

FIAV Vice President – thomas_ kjoseph@hotmail.com, 0438 591 014

Mr Jay Kumar

FIAV Volunteer – jit.victoria@gmail. com, 0422 474 532

Please come together on this annual golden opportunity to highlight the solidarity of Indian community. www.indian-times.com.au

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Preview a New Landmark Apartment Tower by Award Winning Melbourne Developer Stylish City Living in Fabulous Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

MEDIA RELEASE

ocal Melbourne developer Central Equity has had an excellent 2013, achieving a number of significant milestones along the way. These include the completion of a major residential tower in Southbank and two more landmark projects currently under construction. To top it off, the company has just announced another upcoming apartment project – this one in the heart of Melbourne’s vibrant central business district. With a huge grand opening event planned for later in 2014 – now is a great time to preview what the exciting new addition to the Melbourne skyline has on offer. This brand new project is set to feature a bold, architectural design that rises 47 levels above the city’s popular Lonsdale Street. The thoroughly modern apartment tower is respectfully integrated with its heritage building façade at ground level and is set to be a fantastic addition to the local area. The heritage portion of the building will include a variety of commercial and retail outlets on the ground floor of the Lonsdale Street frontage. The heritage laneway that runs adjacent to the tower will also be activated to include a variety of dining and retail options. This new tower is set to impress and is a true reflection of sophisticated inner-city Melbourne living. A landmark residential tower

in a prime location, this brand new tower will have the best of Melbourne at its doorstep – corporate headquarters and major employers’, Southern Cross Station, trams and buses, Melbourne’s leading universities, parks, and abundant retail and dining opportunities - Ideal for owners and investors alike. A variety of 1, 2, and 3 bedrooms apartments are now available

off-the-plan from $399,000. A limited range of penthouses are also selling. Early purchasers will benefit from big Victorian stamp duty savings and an early choice from a large variety of designs and floor plans. Since 1992, Central Equity (a local Melbourne company) has pioneered inner-city living in Melbourne and much of the increase in popularity in

this kind of accommodation in the city is attributed to the company. Central Equity prides itself on creating architecturally striking apartment towers that mix space efficient modern designs, stylish finishes and exclusive resident facilities with the best of Melbourne on the doorstep. This latest apartment project follows the acceptance of a number of recent industry awards including the 2011

and 2012 HIA (Housing Industry Association) Victorian Apartment Project of the Year awards. So why not take the time over the summer break to visit the brand new project display suite? Its located on-site at 618 Lonsdale Street in the CBD and is open 7 days a week over the holiday period.

Call 1800 445 520 or visit www.centralequity.com.au for details.

Vidya Balan turns stylist for Shaadi Ke Side Effects

Picture source: lightscamerabollywood

January 2014 Edition

nown for having made the sari fashionable once more, Vidya Balan is now expanding her style skills. We’ve been told that the actor took it upon herself to devise the perfect look for her on-screen avatar in her ucoming film, Shaadi Ke Side Effects, which also stars Farhan Akhtar. A source close to the film unit says, “Vidya plays a modern housewife in the film, and was required to sport cool, casual attire. Vidya sat with the costume designers and gave them her inputs. She worked towards finding the perfect balance between modern and conventional styles.” The insider adds, “Many of her suggestions were incorporated in the film.” Ask director Saket Chaudhary about this, and he says, “Styling Vidya in the film was relatively easy since she knew her character inside out and knew exactly the kind of clothes to wear in every situation in the film. Her inputs took the character to an all new level.”

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Bollywood

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ollywood diva Madhuri Dixit says playing Begum Para, the new femme fatale in Abhishek Chaubey’s ‘Dedh Ishqiya’, was challenging but fun. “It was a challenging role because I could not go overboard with the character or underplay it. The more complex a character, the more taut a performance needs to be. Playing Begum Para was like a tightrope walk. It had to be just right and I had to constantly keep that in mind,” Madhuri said. The 46-year-old actress, however, did not find it difficult to master the nuances or the Urdu diction of her character. “The diction was not a problem as I have done a little bit of Urdu as Chandramukhi in ‘Devdas’. My priority was getting the performance right.” The film, a sequel to 2010 ‘Ishqiya’, is slated to release tomorrow. Both Naseeruddin Shah and Arshad Warsi are reprising their roles as Khalujaan and Babban while Huma Qureshi is the other new face in the movie. Madhuri agreed to be a part of the sequel because she loved the “unapologetic way” Abhishek presented Vidya Balan’s character of a beautiful, willful woman in ‘Ishqiya’. “I had seen ‘Ishqiya’ and was very impressed with the way a woman’s character was etched out in it. Vidya was very well

presented. There was no apology for the way she was which I found very interesting. So, I was already impressed with Abhishek and Vishalji’s (Bhardwaj) work,” she says. It is her first lead role after ‘Aaja Nachle’ in 2007 but Madhuri does not consider it her comeback as she has been busy doing television, shooting for ‘Dedh Ishqiya’ and ‘Gulab Gang’, her next release in March. “It is not a comeback because I have been doing work. If a hero does a film after four years, they don’t say it’s a comeback but if a heroine does a film in three years, it becomes a comeback. This is the way things work here but that’s fine. I just hope that people like my two films,” Madhuri said. The actress says it was an honour to work with Shah again after films like ‘Tridev’, ‘Rajkumar’ and ‘Gaj Gamini’. “We did not have any scenes in ‘Tridev’ while in ‘Rajkumar’, he played a negative role. We were also together in ‘Gaj Gamini’. It is an honour to work with him every time. He is very natural, you forget that you are doing a scene with him. Our whole chemistry was very beautiful in the film,” Madhuri said. The film also gave her a chance to work to Pandit Birju Maharaj for a song ‘Jagaave saari raina’. “I have two songs ‘jagaawe saari raina’ which is choreographed by Maharaj ji.

Picture source: lightscamerabollywood

Enjoyed playing Begum Para in ‘Dedh Ishqiya’: Madhuri Dixit

This song does not have lipsync so everything had to be done through acting and body language. The song comes at a very important moment in the film. I had worked with Maharajji in ‘Devdas’. “The other song is ‘hamri atariyaa’ which I think

was more challenging to Remo D’Souza than me because he has never choreographed a classical number.” Her second film ‘Gulab Gang’ is coming after a gap of just two months. Madhuri, however, is happy that her fans will get a

chance to see her in two completely different roles. “I spent the last two years working on these two films. I think two months is quite a good gap for another film to release. Both the films are poles apart in terms of character and story.”

Mallaika finds ‘Item girl’ tag derogatory and silly

ctress Malaika Arora Khan, whose popular dance numbers like ‘Chaiyya Chaiyya’, ‘Munni Badnam Hui’ have raised the bar for her contemporaries to match her style, finds the item girl tag “derogatory and silly”. “I don’t like the term ‘item girl’... Why not look at it (item

January 2014 Edition

song) as a special song?...A song that is creating a hype and entertainment. I find it derogatory and silly,” Malaika said. Unlike in the past, currently mainstream actresses like Kareena Kapoor Khan, Deepika Padukone, Priyanka Chopra, Katrina Kaif and others are also

doing special songs in different films. When asked if the leading ladies are intruding the space, Malaika said she did not think so. “There is enough work for everyone. Everybody has a role or part to play, if somebody fits the bill that is what matters,” she added.

Malaika, whose song ‘Munni Badnam Hui’ in Bollywood film ‘Dabangg’ (2010) was a hit, says nothing interesting has come up in terms of special dance numbers. The actress is back to judge yet another season of television series of reality show, ‘India’s Got Talent’. “Last time, I was there for half the season. This time I am getting the feel of everything as I am there from beginning. Previously, I was there from elimination part and it was tough. This time it is insane amount of work. In a day we have 20-25 acts minimum,” Malaika said. On the talent pool at ‘India’s Got Talent’, she said some of the acts pulled off by contestants in the current fifth season are breathtaking. “Some of the acts this season are hysterical, beyond anyone’s comprehension. The acts are breathtaking, mind blowing, death defying and amazing. I don’t think there is any show which provides you a platform to showcase varied kind of talent from all over the country,” she said. Malaika says disqualifying contestants is a tough call. “Everybody comes with a background... A story. We try to dwell into their personal lives, we ask them where they come from, interact with them... It brings out the real aspect of

the show. “Despite the kind of conditions that they have been living in they still pursue their talent, something that they want to show to the world. It is difficult to say no but we have no choice but to follow the format,” Malaika said. Besides Malaika, filmmaker Karan Johar and actress Kirron Kher are other judges for the show to be aired on Colors. Though Malaika has proved herself as a dancer on screen, but one format she wants to learn is belly dancing. “I would love to learn popping, locking and robotics, gymnastics and acrobatics, it is amazing to learn these things. I know basic thing about belly dancing but not the technicalities, I want to learn it. I want to learn belly dancing. I wish to learn more of dancing. I have been associated with dance since long time but yet there is so much more to learn about it,” she said. Malaika says the space of belly dancing is largely unexplored in Bollywood movies. “We have done a few steps here and there in films, whether Deepika Padukone or Katrina Kaif they all have done it but not the real part. There is no one who has actually done belly dancing on screen.

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sports

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India look for improvement in Hockey World League Final

n the Hockey World League Final, most of the teams have fixed their eyes on podium-finish. Indians, however, are seeking a different goal, that of improvement. One can’t blame new coach Terry Walsh for not expressing his desire openly to win a medal in the HWLF, which is beginning in the Capital on Friday, as recent history shows most predictions about Indian hockey have gone horribly wrong. The event would be Walsh’s first big assignment since taking over from fellow Australian Michael Nobbs a couple of months back and he would be testing waters at the HWLF with some major events including the World Cup scheduled to be held later this year. “Our goal is improvement as we go through the tournament. We want to see improvement in four areas -- physiological, psychological, tactical and basic skills,” Walsh said on Thursday. Apart from World No. 4 England, the other two teams in India’s group are No. 1 Germany and No. 7 New Zealand. India, who are world No.10, did not qualify for HWLF but made it to the tournament as hosts. India suffered a setback even before the start of the tournament as some key players are either injured or going through rehab. Their 18-member squad included six players from the team that played in the junior World Cup last month, where India finished a disappointing 10th. “We were really sad with what

happened in the junior hockey World Cup, but this is another huge opportunity for those six players,” Walsh said. India and England last played

against each other in a major tournament in the 2012 Champions Trophy in Melbourne where India won 3-1. England captain Barry Middle-

ton said his side is aiming for a berth in the final. “Everybody is fit. We will play our natural game with full strength. India is a great team with very good and talented

players. “We have a good chance to play in the semifinals and final. We will play our best to achieve the goal,” he said.

reigning Australian Open champion Victoria Azarenka in the final, with her powerful serve proving the difference. Williams also beat world number three Maria Sharapova en route to the title - the 58th of her remarkable career - to ensure she enters the season-opening Grand Slam as red-hot favourite. “It was a great test, it showed me where my level was, and I feel like I definitely have some room for improvement and things that I want to improve on going into Melbourne, and things I have to improve on if I want to win,” she said in Brisbane. Despite her rich vein of form, Williams, 32, is not taking an 18th Grand Slam title and sixth Australian Open crown for granted, knowing she needs to start from scratch at Melbourne Park next week. Last year, an injury-hit campaign ended with defeat to young fellow American Sloane Stephens in the quarter-finals. But Czech-American great Navratilova believes Williams is not only poised to equal her career Grand Slam haul, but could even catch Steffi Graf’s Open-era record of 22. “If she can stay healthy there is

no doubt she can go into the 20s. The sky is the limit,” Navratilova said this week. Belarusian Azarenka, who won an incident-packed Melbourne final last year against Li Na to successfully defend her title, appears best placed to halt Williams, despite the 6-4, 7-5 Brisbane defeat. Azarenka was responsible for two of Williams’ five losses last year but knows she faces a major battle against a player who won the Australian Open in 2003, 2005, 2007, 2009 and 2010. She nevertheless remains confident of clinching a third successive Australian Open crown. “I’m a perfectionist. I want to play better, I want to win,” Azarenka said. Sharapova is another former Melbourne winner searching for her next major title and she will be hoping to avoid Williams until the final, with the American having a 15-2 record over her longtime rival. The glamorous Russian, now under coach Sven Groeneveld after a failed, one-tournament partnership with Jimmy Connors, endured a frustrating 2013 when a shoulder injury forced her off the tour in August.

But she made her comeback in Brisbane and said her enthusiam was as strong as ever. “I’ve had a really healthy offseason, something quite unusual because in the last few years I always had a little injury here and there,” she said in Brisbane. “I know when I’m healthy how I can play and what I’m capable of doing. I needed to get healthy. So that was the motivation on its own.” Like Williams, China’s Li Na also started the season with a win, successfully defending her Shenzhen Open title against compatriot Peng Shuai. Asia’s lone Grand Slam singles champion is a crowd favourite in Melbourne, winning hearts in the final last year when she battled on despite twice going over on her ankle and banging her head so hard that she blacked out. Other contenders include Agnieszka Radwanska, Petra Kvitova and even veteran Jelena Jankovic, a former world number one who believes she still has he game to unsettle Williams. “If you were able to beat her in the past, you can do it again. That’s my mentality and that’s how I always play,” said the Serb, currently eighth in the world.

Photo source: PTI

Dominant Williams guns for 18th major title

erena Williams is gunning to match Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova by winning an 18th Grand Slam title at the Australian Open, with her blistering form suggesting she can reach the milestone.

January 2014 Edition

The world number one cemented her dominance of the sport with 11 titles last year, including the US and French Opens. And she picked up where she left off by winning the Brisbane International on Saturday, beating

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Chennai, Mumbai Indians to go for broke

ith the deadline for the player retention lists coming up, all Indian Premier League (IPL) teams are eagerly waiting for the names which the franchises will submit. The lists will give a clear picture about the players who are not being retained and will thus be in

the auction pool for the upcoming season. Top teams like Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings have indicated that they are likely to retain five stars, the maximum allowed. Rajasthan Royals too are looking to retain five, including Shane Watson and the find of last

season: Sanju Samson. Royals Challengers Bangalore have already announced that they were retaining three players - Virat Kohli, Chris Gayle and AB de Villiers. As reported earlier, the franchise has also appointed Daniel Vettori as the new coach

and Allan Donald as the bowling coach. With Kolkata Knight Riders and Hyderabad Sunrisers looking to retain only two cricketers, they also have an option of buying out two cricketers in the February auction. With Kings XI Punjab and Delhi

Dardevils not revealing much about their team strategies, it can be assumed that they will keep their options open at the auction. MS Dhoni (Chennai Super Kings), Virat Kohli ( Royal Challengers Bangalore), Rohit Sharma (Mumbai Indians) and Chris Gayle (RCB), none of the other retained players will draw the maximum salary on offer, as per the guidelines issued by IPL’s governing council (GC). “The rule states that the first capped player is supposed to get a certain amount. If the team wants to retain him for a lesser amount and he is not willing to play for that amount, he could be brought back in the auction. What is mentioned in the salary bracket is the amount of money which will be deducted from the actual purse,” a team official explained. Teams also said that most of the retained players were under the impression that whatever salary is given in the IPL rule regulation is what the players are supposed to get. As per the IPL rule book, the first retention is worth Rs 12.5 crore, the second player will get Rs 9.5, the third cricketer is supposed to make Rs 7.5 while the fourth and fifth retained player would get a salary of Rs 5.5 and Rs 4 crore respectively per annum.

Nadal to face local hope Tomic in Australian Open

January 2014 Edition

Photo source: PTI

orld number one Rafael Nadal will play local hope Bernard Tomic in the first round of the Australian Open as he bids for a 14th Grand Slam title. The Spaniard faces a tough draw, with a potential fourth round clash with 16th-seeded Japanese Kei Nishikori before a possible quarterfinal with Argentine Juan Martin del Potro. Defending champion Novak Djokovic will play Slovakia’s Lukas Lacko in the first round as he bids for his fourth successive title at Melbourne Park, according to the draw released on Friday. The second seeded Serb has a relatively kind draw until the quarterfinals, where a likely clash against eighth seed Stanislas Wawrinka, who pushed him in a five-set marathon in last year’s tournament, looms. Andy Murray will play Japan’s Go Soeda in the first round but has been drawn in the same quarter as 17-times Grand Slam champion Roger Federer. In the women’s draw, world number one Serena Williams will play Australian wildcard Ashleigh Barty in the first round as she bids for her 18th Grand Slam title and sixth at Melbourne Park. The American’s draw lines her up for a potentially tough fourth-round clash with Sam Stosur, who beat Williams in the final of the US Open in 2011. Double defending champion Victoria Azarenka, seeded second, will take on Swede Johanna Larsson according to the draw released on Friday. Third seed Maria Sharapova will play American Bethanie Mattek-Sands, while fourth seed Li Na, runner-up at Melbourne Park last year, will play a qualifier.

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health

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Vaccination key to combat cervical cancer

ervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women and is responsible for nearly 10 per cent of cancer deaths in women - particularly in developing countries. In India, it kills over 74,000 women every year. Now, researchers have completed a systematic and comprehensive genomic analysis of cervical cancer in two different populations - identifying recurrent genetic mutations that were not previously found in cervical cancer. The findings also capture the role that human papillomavirus (HPV), a common viral infection of the reproductive tract, plays in the development of cervical cancer. “While we don’t have the complete answer yet in this case, what we are seeing is that, in two different populations, the causes of cervical cancer are similar and, fundamentally in both cases, it comes down to HPV-genome interaction,” said Matthew Meyerson, co-senior author of the paper and professor of pathology and medical oncology at DanaFarber Cancer Institute in Boston. The team examined the genetic code in the protein-coding regions of the genome - on samples from 115 cervical cancer patients from Norway and Mexico. The study identified 13 mutations that occurred frequently enough across the samples to be considered significant in cervical

cancer. Eight of these mutations had not been linked to the disease previously, and two had not previously been seen in any cancer type. In each case, the researchers compared genomic data derived from cervical cancer tumours with genomic data from healthy tissue from the same individual to determine what may have gone wrong - or mutated - in the genome to allow the cancer to develop. The mutations identified in tumours

but not in healthy tissues from the same individuals are referred to as somatic mutations. “By analysing genomic data from diverse populations, we can discover patterns to disease progression in context of the full range of human genetic variation,” said co-senior author Helga Salvesen. Among the most notable findings were somatic point mutations in the gene ERBB2, which was found in a small but significant

5 foods that boosts your metabolism

subset of the tumours. Mutations in this gene, which is also known as Her-2, had not been previously been linked to cervical cancer, but it is a known oncogene common in breast cancer. Treatments exist that target the gene. The most striking finding was to learn more about how HPV a primary risk factor for cervical cancer - is driving the disease. “Our findings further elucidate the key role HPV is playing in the development of cervical cancer,

which in turn emphasises the importance of combating the disease by vaccinating against HPV,” Meyerson said. The paper claimed the study bears important clinical implications for targeted therapeutics. “It is hoped that, as we combine vaccination strategies and novel targeted therapies, we will be better able to combat cervical cancer,” the paper added.

AYURVEDA Melbourne CBD, Surrey Hills & Canberra

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Live life...Naturally

f you are looking at gaining some extra energy, incorporate these foods to boost your metabolism in just one week Salmon: The Omega 3 fats are in the form of DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid) which decreases your chances of putting on weight, improved brain health and depression. Further amino acids in salmon will help your body burn more calories. Plain Greek Yoghurt: Though many say that plain Greek yoghurt is bad for the health, it contains sodium and vital vitamins that aid in weight loss and also boosts your metabolism. Eggs: Eggs are said to be a low calorie source of vitamin A and D which along with zinc and other nutrients helps your body sustain

January 2014 Edition

energy for a long time. Spinach: It is said to be rich in chlorophyll, iron, fiber, and vitamin A and C. Spinach also has more protein than any other green leafy vegetable. It has more folate and is said to be a great to up your energy level. Almonds: Almonds are excellent for ! your metabolism for a variety of reasons. The nutrients in nuts and seeds raise your metabolism and promote a reduced waistline. They also help burn body fat especially in the abdominal area. It contains fiber, which increases your metabolism through digestion. Last but not the least; almonds contain antioxidants and amino acids that increase your metabolic burn.

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

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health

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environment by exposing them to genetically engineered males that produced female pheromones. They were also able to manipu-

late the specific neurons responsible for pheromone perception as well as parts of the brain linked to sexual reward.

ried those yo-yo diets and always gained back those kilos? Here’s a guide that’ll help you maintain your body for good Losing weight and maintaining your body requires a lifetime commitment. Dieting, on the other hand, requires you to follow a regimented programme until you get to a certain weight. When you reach that desired number, it isn’t unusual to go back to your old habits. Here’s a 10-step guide that’ll help you maintain that newly acquired svelte body for a lifetime.

January 2014 Edition

Pletcher said that these data may provide the first direct evidence that aging and physiology are influenced by how the

Here’s how you can stay slim

Photo source: PTI

new study has revealed that sex can be one of the secrets to good health, youth and a longer life. The research, which was conducted on fruit flies, found that male fruit flies that perceived sexual pheromones of their female counterparts- without the opportunity to mate- experienced rapid decreases in fat stores, resistance to starvation and more stress. The sexually frustrated flies lived shorter lives. Mating, on the other hand, partially reversed the negative effects on health and aging. Senior author Scott D. Pletcher, Ph.D, professor in the Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology at the U-M Medical School, said that the findings gave them a better understanding about how sensory perception and physiological state are integrated in the brain to affect longterm health and lifespan. “The cutting-edge genetics and neurobiology used in this research suggests to us that for fruit flies at least, it may not be a myth that sexual frustration is a health issue. Expecting sex without any sexual reward was detrimental to their health and cut their lives short.” U-M scientists used sensory manipulations to give the common male fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, the perception that they were in a sexually rich

Photo source: PTI

Having better sex life can help you live longer A

Personalise your diet Do not follow the latest ‘size zero’ diet that your favourite star is following. Nutritionists say a diet works best when they are customised. It must depend on your body constituency, basal metabolic rate and lifestyle. Ditch the scale Your weight depends on your water intake, bone density and muscle mass. Although you may look slimmer, the weighing scale may show a number higher than what you anticipate. It’s wiser to pay attention to how your clothes are fitting you, or

measure the midpoint of your waist, and your bra size and track how the inches have reduced or increased over time. Stay motivated Losing weight increases your self-confidence and makes you feel better about yourself. It’s easy to stay motivated while your pants are feeling loose. But what happens when the weight hits a plateau? By focusing on how your health is improving you stay committed to healthier habits. Don’t be shy about giving yourself regular pep talks. Occasionally, write ‘I am entitled to

better health’ on sticky notes and paste them on your desk. Form a support group Losing weight is a lonely journey. It is your battle and you’re fighting your own eating habits. A good idea is to get a support group. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your family doctor, nutritionist, gym buddies, mentors, friends, and family to egg you on, especially if you eat for emotional reasons. Smarten up the kitchen If you open the fridge and can’t find healthy options, you’re more likely to call for a pizza or grab a box of cookies. Always stack it with healthy staples like vegetables, premeasured chicken breasts, beans, olive oil, eggs, fresh herbs, and some quick-boil whole grains. Arrange shelves so you can see what you have and what’s running low. Pre-plan meals Eating out can be quite challenging when you’re trying to lose weight. You tend to make habitual choices without considering calories or added sugar and salt. So, the next time you are making a plan to eat out, go online to view the menu and decide what you want, instead of making your folks wait on your order, endlessly. Snack smart A well-timed snack that is a combination of carbs and proteins keeps your blood sugar steady and can prevent you from binging when you sit down for your next meal. If you’re hungry but not ready for a

brain processes expectations and rewards. In this case, sexual rewards specifically promoted healthy ageing.

full meal, consider an apple and a handful of nuts, two khakras with boiled sprouts, or a multi-grain toast with a small glass of milk, or a hardboiled egg. Don’t deprive yourself The more you deprive yourself of a food item, the more you’ll crave it. So don’t completely strike off pizza and chocolate cake from the menu, but eat it less frequently and in smaller portions. By that way, you’ll avoid gorging on them once you’re through with the diet programme. Manage your metabolism If you’re still not losing weight, despite all your best efforts, your metabolism may be the culprit. If you’re having trouble losing weight, your doctor can rule out or confirm a thyroid imbalance or hormonal fluctuations and prescribe appropriate medication. He can establish health measures like blood pressure, cholesterol, fasting blood sugar, waist measurement and pulse. If he rules out serious health problems associated with excess weight, you might be more motivated to commit to regular exercise and a healthier diet. Keep healthy foods handy There’s nothing worse than getting stuck at a fast-food joint from hell when you’re very hungry. Avoid that fate by keeping non-perishable foods like nuts, dried or dehydrated fruit, a packet of peanuts, a fruit or a small box of carrots handy. Be sure to carry a water bottle so you don’t confuse thirst with hunger.

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How to make 2014 a healthy year

new year calls for some new and healthy habits. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the start of 2014 and by making a few diet changes; you can go a long way in improving your health. From detaching yourself from tea or coffee to drinking plenty of water, you can try a few things to achieve that glow on your face. According to nutritionist Ilona Wesle, detoxing has many benefits. It can enhance your energy levels, aid weight loss, clear the skin and improve digestion. Here are tips to make you healthy. * Avoid black tea, coffee and alcohol. Instead drink herbal tea, for example nettle is great at supporting the kidneys. * Drink at least 1 liter of water per day. Keep a bottle by your desk and sip regularly.

* Avoid processed foods, for instance ready meals, savoury snacks and biscuits. Instead eat food in its natural state. Cook it by steaming, lightly boiling or poaching - this way you will keep most of the goodness in the food

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* Drink fresh juices, for instance carrot, beetroot, apple and cucumber as they are fantastically nourishing and cleansing.

(and retain the full flavour). * Choose organic food in order to minimise your intake of toxic pesticides. Even if you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make every item organic, do

the best you can - it will make a difference. * Eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables per day. At

lunchtime and for dinner, aim to cover at least 60% of your plate with vegetables and eat as much variety as possible. * Reduce your consumption

of animal products. Avoid dairy and replace milk with soya or nut milks. Lentils, beans, quinoa, seeds and nuts are good protein alternatives.

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January 2014 Edition

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Drink coconut water for glowing skin

ot dull, lifeless skin? While skin texture is mostly hereditary, there is a lot you can do to improve it. The effect of diet is seriously underestimated in beauty care. While consumption of fruits and fruit juices is said to be good for the skin, it is best to avoid oily and masala rich foods. While orange juice has been voted the best for skin, not many are aware of the benefits of coconut water when it comes to skin care. The liquid, considered the purest one after water, hydrates the skin, making it look more youthful and supple. Studies say that

the antioxidants and cytokinins present in coconut water have an age defying effect on skin. The nutritious value of the drink has always been acknowledged. If you are feeling weak or have stomach problems, drink coconut water for an energy boost. An advantage it has over fruit juices is that you can easily have a glass a day since it is almost entirely fat free and sugar free. There are also studies which say that coconut water dabbed on skin has a positive effect. However, there are no studies to prove this. Well, drink coconut water every day and watch your skin glow!