February 2010
The National bird of India
In this issue:
Red Baarat - Bhangra & Brass Funk Why Do You Need a Will or Trust?
Palika Bazaar & Jewelers
Don’t let the flame burn out on your love this Valentines Day. Without Love What Else Is Left In The World?
Large Selection Of New Arrivals ! Get That Perfect Gift For Valentine’s Day. Free Dozen Roses For Your Valentine with Any Diamond Jewelery Purchase! STORE HOURS Tuesday-Sunday 11 AM to 8 PM Closed on Monday
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Stop in and see the New Palika Collection We will meet or beat the price of any National Jeweler.
Hello Readers Remember Amar Chitra Katha, the comic books featuring stories from Indian history and mythology? Artists are now creating the next generation of comics. Read about it on pg. 6. Did you know a good portion of the special effects in Avatar and New Moon were created by specialists in India? Read the story on pg. 10. Marketing and publicity efforts in Bollywood have become as important as the films. Read how marketing folks are creating buzz for Indian films on pg. 12. How do you find the financing to attend the college of your dreams? Some ideas are presented on pg. 48. Just how important are wills and trusts? Don’t make another financial decision before reading pg. 58. The tax season is heating up. What to do if you are here on an H1 or L1 Visa? Go to pg. 64 for the details. Catch up on all the happenings in local organizations in our Community News section beginning on pg. 90 or stay up to date daily at www.saathee.com.
A features magazine for the South Asian Community of the Carolinas
Quote: “The true test of character is not how much we know how to do, but how we bahave when we don't know what to do.” - John Holt
February 2010 – Issue # 142 Editor:Samir Shukla (saatheemag@hotmail.com) Publisher: Divakar Shukla (rakavid@aol.com) Community News Editor: Rajesh Ganatra Ad Design / Layout: Nate “Natwarlalji” Andrews Consultant: Himanshu Desai Contributors for this issue: Pradip Bulsara, Kirit Shukla, Rajesh Ganatra, Judith L. Bergman, Chandan Sen, Hena Sharma, Manisha Dass, Sardar Singh, Dr. Maha Gingrich, Wendy Wells, Narendra Dixit, Krutika Chheda, Gail Z. Martin, Anjana Agarwal, Swapna Krishna, Bansili Desai, Anita Kulkarni, Jalendu Vaidya, Amit Arya, Ananya Mallavarapu, and Christine M. Hall.
Your saathees: Samir, Divakar, Raj & Himanshu
In this issue:
February 2010
All contents © 2010 Shukla Entertainment, Inc. Opinions expressed herein are those of the writers and advertisers and not necessarily of the publisher or editor. Contact us prior to sending in articles or photographs for submissions. Saathee is published monthly. Deadlines for advertisement, submissions and events information is 20th of the previous month. Mission: Our goal is to be a valuable source of information for the Carolinas’ South Asian community and a vital advertising tool for businesses.
Saathee Magazine P.O. Box 11468 Charlotte, NC 28220 Phone: (704) 527-7570 Fax: (704) 527-7590 E-mail: saatheemag@hotmail.com
www.saathee.com Cover: An Indian Peacock
The majestic peacock (Mayura in Sanskrit) is the national bird of India. It is seen all over South Asia, from farms to rooftops.
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February 2010
The National bird of India
India’s Comics Boom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 06 Immigrants Seeking Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 08 Indian Accents in Hollywood . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 10 Bollywood Has a New King . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 14 Saathee Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 16 Bolly Bits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 20 Sangeet, Music of India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 22 Evergreen Film Lyrics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 24 Indian Classical Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 28 Book Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 30 Automobiles in India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 32 Dances of India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 34 The Comet Rider . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 36 Children’s Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 38 Untie the Knots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 40 Blazing Understanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 42 Mastering Meaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 44 Astride Three Continents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 46 College of Your Dreams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 48 Healthwise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 50 Stock Tickers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 54 Marketing Turnaround . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 56 Personal Finance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 58 For Greater Good . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 62 Tax Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 64 Social Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 66 Immigration Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 68 The Chai Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 70 Cricket Forum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 74 Community Focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 84 Community News & Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 90 Pop’s Puzzles and Jokes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 110 Festivals and Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 112 AstroScope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 114 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 116 Puzzle Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 118 Index of Advertisers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 118
In this issue:
Red Baarat - Bhangra & Brass Funk Why Do You Need a Will or Trust?
Photo: BigStockPhoto
Saathee Magazine, USPS 021-116, is a free subscription magazine published monthly by Shukla Entertainment Inc. POSTMASTER: Send address corrections to Saathee, P.O. Box 11468 Charlotte, NC 28220-1468. Postage paid at Charlotte, NC. (ISSN: 1543-8147) saathee.com
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India’s Comics The Pao (bread) Collective A group of Indian artists is reinventing the medium. By Jason Overdorf - GlobalPost.com NEW DELHI, India — Fifteen years ago, when artist Orijit Sen produced India’s first graphic novel — a story about the Narmada valley dam protest movement — he was only able to print the book with the help of government funding, and distribution meant carrying copies of the book to stores and trying to explain why it didn’t belong in the children’s section. “No publisher would consider publishing something like a comic book,” Sen said. “We were only able to publish it with the help of a small grant from the government, and the government didn’t know what we were using it for, obviously.” The scene is different now. Amid a boom in publishing and contemporary art, India’s comic book scene is undergoing a renaissance of its own. Once known only for the beloved Amar Chitra Katha series, which focused on Hindu mythology, today India’s comic book industry includes homegrown superhero sagas, modernized versions of classic myths and even postmodern tales of urban angst. Courting the global audience, self-help guru Deepak Chopra and Oscar winner Shekhar Kapur have teamed up to develop a library of India-inspired heroes for Liquid Comics, from which several potential Hollywood film projects have emerged. And domestically, upstarts like the Kolkata-based Kriyetic Comics and the Google group Project C are moving in on the territory of longtime leader Raj Comics. This is fomenting a much-needed revolution in a kids-only oriented industry that has become excessively formulaic over the past two decades. “In the earlier part of the decade, in India, comics were still perceived as ‘kids products,’ whereas in the last five years a new generation of world-class Indian creators have begun expanding the boundaries of the medium and transforming its perception within India as a viable foundation to create compelling stories that are not defined by age or genre, just like other visual storytelling mediums such as film and television,” said Sharad Devarajan, co-founder and CEO of Liquid Comics. The latest buzz is literary. Following in the footsteps of genre-pioneer Art Spiegelman (Maus) and recent sensation Marjane Satrapi (Persepolis), a new group of Indian comic book artists who call themselves “the Pao Collective” are fighting to make the Indian graphic novel a publishing phenomenon to rival so-called “Indian writing in English” — a virtual factory for Booker Prize winners. “We are like the older guys who are somewhat known, who have been doing this for awhile, so publishers will listen to us,” said Sen. “We want to use our
influence there to help bring out young people and their work.” The Pao Collective joined forces about a year ago, inspired by painter and comic book scholar Amitabh Kumar, who was researching Indian popular culture at the Delhi-based Sarai Media Lab. Recognizing that the commercial houses were evolving on a studio model that to some degree stifled creativity, Kumar approached the country’s small set of successful graphic novelists to form a group that could nurture young artists, promote the comic book medium, and further blur the lines between art, literature, and the comic book. “We decided that we needed some kind of platform, or some kind of organized setup, that can promote comic book culture in India and bring out various different kinds of stories to look at the visual narrative device in the Indian context,” said Kumar. Along with Kumar, the Pao (or “bread”) Collective comprises Sarnath Banerjee, Vishwajyoti Ghosh, Orijit Sen and Parismita Singh — each of whom has emerged as a pioneer of the Indian literary graphic novel. Sen, whose 1994 “River of Stories” was a compelling comic about a young activist confronting the tragedy of the Narmada Dam Project, is often credited with introducing the graphic novel in India. The winner of a $33,000 grant from the MacArthur Foundation, Banerjee in 2004 produced the first graphic novel, Corridor, to attract the attention of India’s literary publishing industry — as well as the country’s first graphic best seller. Ghosh has produced a number of works for international anthologies, and last year Singh’s “The Hotel at the End of the World” reignited the interest of India’s literati. “Art is a vehicle for understanding ourselves, and for young people a medium like this could be a really strong creator of identity, a mirror for what we are, and a means of questioning our values,” said Sen. The Pao Collective has embarked on an ambitious plan to promote interest in the Indian graphic novel by mentoring new artists, publishing compelling work and bringing the comic book form into spaces traditionally reserved for art and theater. Already Pao is making a splash in the country’s literary and art circles by writing reviews of graphic novels for daily newspapers like the Times of India, presenting its work at dramatic readings or “storytelling sessions” in cultural venues, and exhibiting comic book pages in art galleries. The launch of a Pao Collective blog featuring online editions of the members’ work is imminent. And down the road, Pao plans comic book workshops across the country, which the members hope will inspire similar organizations in other cities and towns, and eventually a comic book convention. “It’s on the fringe of art and the fringe of literature, which is great,” said Banerjee. “Who wants to be in art, and who wants to be in literature? The time has come for the graphic novel to be looked into from outcontinued on page 112
February 2010
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Immigrants Seeking Safety A newly launched project that provides culturally specific services By Manisha Dass Immigrant victims, whether in the United States with documentation or without, face unique challenges when they find themselves in abusive relationships. Their challenge to leave the relationship becomes exponentially more difficult because of certain barriers which are distinct to the immigrant population. These barriers include language, cultural, fear of reporting the abuse to authorities, and fear of repercussive actions that authorities might take, such as taking their children away or being deported. Immigrants Seeking Safety, a newly launched project in Wake County, provides services that are culturally specific to the target communities of the projects: victims of South Asian descent, and victims of Hispanic descent. The project started last August and is a three-year project funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation with local funding partners including Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation, Triangle Community Foundation, N.C. Governors Crime Commission, and United Way of the Greater Triangle. Service providers have come together to give clients the attention and services they need, often being able to combat one of the largest barriers the immigrant community has: language barriers. Collaborators all provide bilingual (and in some cases trilingual) services to the victims, which often makes the victims feel like their support is magnified. Many victims feel isolated because of the domestic violence and their isolation is furthered when they feel like they cannot go to anyone for help because they don’t know the language. Funders and collaborative partners saw a growing need for the project for victims in Wake County, which is how the project developed. “We are seeing an increase in the number of immigrant clients who have experienced domestic violence and need help navigating the legal system and connecting with other resources in our community,” said Kathy Johnson, InterAct’s Associate Executive Director. The five service providers collaborating for Immigrants Seeking Safety are InterAct, Legal Aid, Safe Child, Kiran Inc., and ALPES (Alianza Latina ProEducación en Salud). The collaborators work together in order to maximize efficiency of services provided to the clients. The collaborative partners meet once a month, and have successfully completed six months of their three year project. Though the project has just taken off, many partners feel confident in the direction of which the project is headed. The three areas that members of the Immigrants Seeking Safety address for victims of domestic violence are client services, volunteer recruitment and training, and community awareness and education. InterAct and Kiran both provide 24-hour crisis lines for February 2010
victims to call and seek counseling in during crisis, and both agencies provide walk-in crisis counseling with culturally competent counselors. Safe Child provides an educational program (Crianza con Cariño) for Hispanic Families and support group. Collaborators are all involved in volunteer recruitment and training. Volunteers play a key role in providing support to staff and are selected after careful screening and a mandatory training. Education is one of the most critical factors in breaking the cycle of domestic violence. “Many immigrants may not know that there are organizations that can help them when they experience domestic violence,” said Ritu Kaur, InterAct’s Associate Director of Community Relations and the project’s director. “They may also think that their immigration status and language barriers will prevent them from receiving services.” The third area the project focuses on is community awareness. Community awareness is essential and includes participating in local cultural events for outreach as well as domestic violence training in a professional setting. “Our community’s network of support for domestic violence victims will be stronger as a result of this partnership,” Kaur said. “More people will know how to access community resources to promote healthy families.” Imagine being able to talk, but not having a voice. Imagine being abused by your partner and feelings like you have absolutely nowhere to go. The successful launch and implementation of Immigrants Seeking Safety aims to connect the immigrants with the resources they have a right to. Help is available and victims do not have to suffer in silence because they are immigrants. If you are in a domestic violence situation or know someone that can benefit from the Immigrant Seeking Safety project, contact InterAct’s 24-Hour Domestic Violence crisis lines at 919.828.7740 to have an initial conversation with a counselor and get the necessary referrals to collaborators of the project.
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Can You Hear the Indian Accent Behind Hollywood’s Biggest Hits? The secret behind “Avatar” and Twilight’s “New Moon” By Jason Overdorf - GlobalPost.com NEW DELHI, India — When 33-year-old Namit Malhotra started out in the special effects business with three of his buddies back in 1997, there was every reason to believe that these back-of-a-cocktailnapkin entrepreneurs would crash and burn. Though his father was a successful cinematographer, Malhotra was just 19 years old. He and his pals didn’t have an MBA or a year of experience between the bunch. And Malhotra himself had to enroll in a technical school to learn the basics of computer graphics. “On the technology side, we were totally fresh, so it meant that we had to learn as a matter of survival,” Malhotra said. Fifteen years later, Prime Focus Ltd., the company that Malhotra started with his friends, is more than surviving. The firm is steadily climbing the ladder to the top of the visual effects industry. Malhotra’s staff has increased from four college-age kids to more than 1,200 post-production pros. After selling equity to a couple of top Indian entertainment firms to finance acquisitions, the company now boasts four studios in India, another in London, and two more in the U.S. And last year, the firm earned 3.67 billion rupees ($80 million) in revenue. But Malhotra’s biggest strides have been creative. Prime Focus played an essential behind-the-scenes role in two of the biggest Hollywood blockbusters of 2009 — Chris Weitz’s New Moon and James Cameron’s Avatar. The company established itself as one of the cutting-edge firms in the visual effects business by producing about 10 percent of James Cameron’s pathbreaking 3D super hit and a whopping 80 percent of the shots for the second installment of the Twilight franchise. “Avatar obviously is the biggest of all,” Malhotra said. “We’ve done some exemplary work in GI Joe and New Moon as well. But when you’re working on Avatar as one of the top five vendors you have got to a lot more credible space than working on just any movie.” The London Stock Exchange-listed company’s portfolio of work runs the gambit from Avatar to top Bollywood hits like the Amir Khan starrer 3 Idiots to Splinter Films’ DVD release of a live performance by Beyonce. The company already owns the lion’s share of the Indian post-production and visual effects market, and the international business is expanding rapidly. The future looks even more promising. Capitalizing on India’s low cost base, Prime Focus aims to use its socalled “worldsourcing” model to grab an ever larger slice of the international visual effects market, as Hollywood February 2010
simultaneously ramps up its use of computer-generated imagery to boost the global box office and tries to slash production costs to boost profits. “We’ve gone out and set up the base for operating in all these developed markets, so now we find ourselves in the zone where we can push for building scale through our global operation,” Malhotra said. While other entertainment sectors suffered a rough year, India’s animation and visual effects industry grew more than 20 percent last year for the second year in a row. And according to PricewaterhouseCoopers, that growth is slated to continue. The consultancy’s most recent report on the global entertainment industry forecasts that India’s animation and visual effects industry will grow 22.2 percent a year between now and 2013, to reach Rs. 42.5 billion ($925 million) from a base of Rs. 13.0 billion ($283 million) in 2007. “India has a talent pool for getting into these technology intensive businesses, and of course the cost is low,” said Smita Jha, associate director of the entertainment and media practice at PricewaterhouseCoopers. “That’s one basic factor that’s propelled the growth.” Of the two fields, animation has received the lion’s share of media attention because the number of video games and animated features produced every year makes it much larger than the VFX business. But VFX is growing in importance. Today, a host of Indian companies like Prime Focus, VCL, Crest and Rhythm & Hues are working on major Hollywood projects, and as much as 60 percent of animation and VFX revenues come from international projects. And while the biggest reason remains the conventional outsourcing model — whereby filmmakers slash costs by sending the grunt work of the special effects trade to Indian animators — Prime Focus’ pioneering work on Avatar shows that’s changing, too. “Gradually over time, people have learned the ropes and they’re not just operating on a low-cost, high-scale model, but they’re actually creating IP (intellectual property) work,” said Jha. Prime Focus created the holographic table on the Earth invasion force’s mother ship, with which the main characters bring up a three-dimensional display of the planet’s alien natives’ “Home Tree.” Prime Focus also created computer-generated helicopters, buildings and natural terrain for several important sequences. About 90 designers from the company’s Los Angeles, Vancouver and Winnipeg offices worked on the project, under the direction of top producers in the L.A. office. Similarly, for New Moon Prime Focus contributed key visual effects, including various elements of the scenery and atmosphere and the “Diamond Skin” effect on Edward and the other vampire characters. About 45 designers from the Vancouver and L.A. studios worked on New Moon, with Vancouver doing the heavy lifting to create the Forks High School, the cliffs and other computer-generated elements of the Washington State locale. “We never wanted to be a low-end outsourcing company,” Malhotra said. “We haven’t tried to be a low-cost supplier. We are working at the highest creative end of the business.”
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Bollywood Has a New King What makes the blockbuster Bollywood film “3 Idiots” and others so smart? Marketing, yaar. By Saritha Rai - GlobalPost.com BANGALORE, India — Aamir Khan traverses India incognito, leaving fans gasping after the most unusual of encounters. The Bollywood star has created a titanic buzz around his latest film, 3 Idiots, which has just become Bollywood’s highest grossing movie ever. Meanwhile, two young actors — Shahid Kapur and Genelia D’Souza — spend all night in a parked car, sipping masala chai from a pavement tea shop to promote the forthcoming Chance Pe Dance. Even megastar Amitabh Bachchan goes missing for weeks before reappearing as an unrecognizable 13year-old to promote the recent, modestly-budgeted film Paa. Welcome to Bollywood’s latest strategy: dreaming up the wackiest, most gimmicky stunts to promote movies. The marketing sometimes borders on the extreme. Last year, hundreds of people had their heads shaved off based on the look of the protagonist (Khan, again) in the film Ghajini. There are also coincidental events that help a film’s marketing. The recent drama at an American airport for Shahrukh Khan, being detained due to his name, probably didn’t hurt the publicity efforts of his upcoming film My Name is Khan. Hollywood moviemakers, whose promotion budgets have on occasion appeared to rival the entire production budget, are of course highly skilled in hyper-marketing their offerings. Now Bollywood is arriving at the same party, having recognized that promotions can be as important as the movie-making process itself. Entire casts, directors, producers and crew are becoming part of lavish, over-the-top movie promotions. Filmmakers need to promote their movies in as excessive a manner as possible as there are a multitude of entertainment options today, Amitabh Bachchan told GlobalPost via email. “We need to market our films in a manner that provokes people to step out to the movie theater,” he says, adding, “there is a lot more money riding on the films these days.” It is perhaps a sign of changing times in India, where a proliferation of multiplexes, experimental themes, increasing number of releases, professional moviemaking and movie marketing are redefining the business of Bollywood. And this is very serious business. Since 70 percent of the earnings typically come within the first week of the movie’s release, marketing virtually shapes the film’s destiny, says producer Riteish Sadhwani of Excel Productions. Just a few years ago, Bollywood movie releases were preceded by leaks of salacious details of the February 2010
romantic liaisons between the male and female leads. “Today, that is so passé,” says Bollywood publicist Archana Sadanand, CEO of Imagesmiths. “Audiences are smart and have cottoned on to such cheap tricks.” So filmmakers are innovating. Sadanand led the promotion of Paa, the movie in which megastar Bachchan plays Auro, a character suffering from progeria, a disease that produces rapid aging. The team maintained top secrecy over Bachchan’s completely uncharacteristic look and role in the film. “We managed to strip Mr. B’s overwhelming persona and make his character Auro the key element,” she said. Rapid changes in media are also playing a role. The Bollywood-chasing media has grown from a couple of glossy magazines to hundreds of media outlets, including television channels, magazines and websites dedicated to Mumbai’s moviemaking. “Each medium is a potential marketing tool and it would be stupid not to use them all,” says Bachchan. Producers bankrolling Bollywood projects are jumping in as well. Sidhwani of Excel says promotions have come a long way since the days of his first film 10 years ago, the blockbuster hit Dil Chahta Hai (What the heart wants). Sidhwani admits he did not put any thought to postproduction with the pre-multiplex era release of that film. But things are vastly different with his new one, the much-anticipated Karthik Calling Karthik that’s due for a late February release. Sidhwani says marketing has become more important because of the clutter of movies and a more discerning audience. “To draw the globally-aware Bollywood movie watcher into the multiplex with a desire and urgency to watch your film is becoming a task for creative minds,” Sidhwani said. The competition is stiff and movie-goers have a choice between four to six new releases each month, Sidhwani says. It’s about smart marketing, yaar. But while smart promotion draws in the first rush of fans and leads to word-of-mouth, even the zaniest, slickest marketing efforts do not guarantee success if a film lacks substance, says Sadanand. The outsized promos of the mega-budget Blue, tagged as India’s first underwater film, promised action and adventure. The movie did not deliver, however, and sank without a trace.
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Upcoming Movie Releases
Top Five Movies - February 10
(Bollywood films slated to be released in the next 4-6 weeks) 1. Rann Amitabh Bachchan, Paresh Rawal, Ritesh Deshmukh, Mohnish Behl, and Suchitra Krishnamurthy
My Name Is Khan (Director: Karan Johar) Cast: Shahrukh Khan, Kajol, Soniya Jehan, Jimmy Shergill, Zarina Wahab & Parvin Dabbas
2. 3 Idiots Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor, R Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, and Boman Irani
Hide & Seek (Director: Shawn Arranha) Cast: Purab Kohli, Arjan Bajwa, Mrinalini Sharma, Samir Kochhar, Ayaz Khan, and Amruta Patki
3. Veer Salman Khan, Sohail Khan, Mithun Chakraborty, Jackie Shroff, and Zarine Khan
Click (Dir: Sangeeth Sivan) Cast: Shreyas Talpade, Sada, Sneha Ullal, Rehan Khan, and Chunky Pandey
4. Dulha Mil Gaya Fardeen Khan, Sushmita Sen, Mohir Chadda, Tara Sharma, Johny Lever, and Bina Kak
Prem Kaa Game (Director: Ashok Kheny) Cast: Arbaaz Khan, Tara Sharma, Madhuri Bhattacharya & Malaika Arora
5. Chance Pe Dance Shahid Kapoor & Genelia Dsouza
Thanks Maa (Director: Irfan Kamal) Cast: Alok Nath, Barry John, Raghuveer Yadav, Sanjay Mishra, Ranvir Shorey, and Mukta Barve
Top Five Songs - February 10
Striker (Dir: Chandan Arora) Cast: R. Siddharth, Aditya Pancholi, Anupam Kher, Padmapriya, Nicollete Bird, and Ankur Vikal
1. My Name is Khan “Noor E Khudi” Music: Shankar Ehsaan Loy Singers: Shankar Mahadevan, Adnan Sami & Shreya Ghoshal
Toh Baat Pakki (Director: Kedar Shinde) Cast: Tabu, Sharman Joshi, Uvika Chaudhary, Ayub Khan, Vatsal Sheth & Sharat Saxena
2. Karthik Calling Karthik “Jaane Ye Kya” Music: Shankar Ehsaan Loy Singer: KK
Fatso (Director: Rajat Kapoor) Cast: Ranvir Shorey, Gul Panag, Purab Kohli, and Vinay Pathak
3. Raan “Remote Ko Baahar Pheh” Music: Jayesh Gandhi Singers: Jayesh Gandhi, Rajpal Yadav and Abhishek Nailwal
Karthik Calling Karthik (Dir: Vijay Lalwani) Cast: Farhan Akhtar, Deepika Padukone, Ram Kapoor & Shefali Chhaya
4. Chance Pe Dance “Pe.. Pe... Pepein” Music: Adnan Sami Singers: Neeraj Shridhar & Salim Shahiada
Right Yaaa Wrong (Director: Neeraj Pathak) Cast: Sunny Deol, Irrfan Khan, Eesha Koppikhar, Aryan Vaid, Konkona Sen Sharma, and Anjan Srivastava
5. Veer “Surili Akhiyon” Music: Sajid Wajid Singers: Rahat Fahteh Ali Khan, Sunidhi Chauhan Y Suzanne D’Mello (Note: This top five is based on the following non-scientific research: your feedback, video rental, box office from India and United States, internet opinions & our opinion) February 2010
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Upcoming Movie Releases Continued (Bollywood films slated to be released in the next 4-6 weeks) Teen Patti (Director: Leena Yadav) Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Ben Kingsley, R Madhavan, Raima Sen, Dhruv Ganesh, Siddharth Kher & Vaibhav Talwar Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge? (Dir: Ashwani Dhir) Cast: Ajay Devgan, Konkona Sen Sharma, Paresh Rawal, Satish Kaushik & Akhilendra Mishra Mittal Vs Mittal (Director: Karan Razdan) Cast: Rituparna Sengupta, Rohit Roy, Gulshan Grover, and Suchitra Krishnamurthy Lahore (D: Sanjay Puran Singh Chauhan) Cast: Aanaahad, Farooq Sheikh, Nafisa Ali, Shraddha Nigam, Saurabh Shukla, and Aashish Vidyarthi Peter Gaya Kaam Se (Director: John Owen) Cast: Rajeev Khandelwal and Lekha Washington Well Done Abba (Director: Shyam Benegal) Cast: Boman Irani, Minissha Lamba, Sameer Dattani, Ravi Kissen, and Ila Arun Hum Tum Aur Ghost (Director: Kabeer Kaushik) Cast: Arshad Warsi, Dia Mirza, Sandhya Mridul, Boman Irani, and Zehra Naqvi Road, Movie (Director: Dev Benegal) Cast: Abhay Deol, Satish Kaushik, Tannishtha Chatterjee, Mohammed Faisal Usmani, and Virendra Saxena Kajraare (Director: Pooja Bhatt) Cast: Himesh Reshammiya, Mona Laizza, Amrita Singh, Natasha Sinha, and Gaurav Chanana Shaapit (Dir: Vikram Bhatt) Cast: Aditya Narayan, Shweta Agarwal, Rahul Dev, and Shubh Joshi (Movie release dates subject to change.) February 2010
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Indian film industry, since they’re well versed with advanced technologies, Humayun said. The filming will take place in Pakistan and Dubai and will see a simultaneous release in India and Pakistan.
Gurindher Chadha’s latest Premieres at Sundance Film Festival
Anupam Kher and Darsheel Safary in Walt Disney’s Zokkomon
Director Satyajit Bhatkal, the documentarl Chale Chalo on the making of Lagaan, is ready with Zokkomon, the first Indian feature film to be produced by Walt Disney Pictures. “The script was one of many that I wrote. To my luck, it was almost immediately approved by Disney. But before that I did a number of one-hour series entitled Bombay Lawyers for NDTV. These were based on my own experiences as a lawyer,” Bhatkal said in a recent Bollywood Hungama interview. “When I made Chale Chalo based on behind-the-scenes experiences of those involved with Lagaan, I made sure there wasn’t a single shot of Lagaan in my documentary.” Zokkomon stars Anupam Kher and Darsheel Safary and will be young Darsheel’s first release since Taare Zameen Par.
Deepa Mehta to Film Midnight’s Children Canada-based Indian filmmaker Deepa Mehta says she has finished writing the script for the big-screen adaptation of Salman Rushdie’s Booker Prize winning novel, “Midnight’s Children” and will start filming in September this year. “We’ve just finished the screenplay and we’re going to do the casting in the next couple of weeks. We hope to start filming September,” Mehta told IANS. “It (the movie) is totally based on Salman’s book,” she added. The 60-year-old shed light on members of the cast which includes Irrfan Khan, Seema Biswas, Shabana Azmi, and Nandita Das.
Pakistani actor Humayun Saeed plans an Indo-Pak project Mahesh Bhatt has always been a frontrunner when it comes to importing talent from Pakistan. From actors to musicians to singers, Bhatt has always utilized talent from across the border in his movies. The latest is, popular Pakistani actor Humayun Saeed, who was cast in a significant role in Jashnn, is making a movie - an Indo-Pak collaborative effort - with Bhatt playing a noteworthy role in this endeavor, handling the creative aspect of the film. The film, titled Balaa, will borrow talents from India and Pakistan, including music composer Raju Singh whose will be recorded by Indian and Pakistani singers. A lot of technicians will be hired from the February 2010
Gurindher Chadha’s latest film It’s A Wonderful Afterlife, a tip of the hat to the timeless American director Frank Capra, was selected as the opening film at the Sundance Film Festival last month. The Punjabi director has made several films and says the hit Bend It Like Beckham remains her most beloved film that she has directed. “Before Bend It, the footballer David Beckham was not quite the mega-star he is now. You’ll be surprised to know how many people would ask who the Beckham in the title was. I think Beckham became a big star afterwards. If I were to make Bend It Like Beckham today it’d be impossible. David Beckham has become too big for his name to be used for a film,” she said in an interview with Bollywood Hungama. The film will have a dubbed Hindi version.
North Carolina Actor to Appear in Past Life Have you ever experienced déjà vu or met someone you thought seemed familiar? Do you believe in karma, fate or love at first sight? Have you ever had an out-of-body experience? From writer David Hudgins (“Friday Night Lights”), and inspired by the book “The Reincarnationist” by M.J. Rose, comes Past Life, a new drama series that investigates the world of the unexplained through the eyes of a doctor and a former detective who must work together to solve decades-old mysteries. The cast includes actor Ravi Patel, who has roots in Charlotte. Patel plays Dr. Rishi Karna, an energetic M.D. who loves bad TV, Cuban jazz and driving everyone crazy. The show premieres on Fox on February 11, 2010.
Disney Releases Taare Zameen Par DVD Aamir Khan’s directorial debut from 2007, Taare Zameen Par, has been released on DVD in the US via a collaboration with Disney. The film is known as Like Stars on Earth in the US release with both an English and a Hindi version. The film is a wonderful drama about an eight-year-old boy who just can’t seem to keep his attention in school or domestic tasks. Aamir Khan plays an art teacher who discovers that the boy, played by Darsheel Safary, has dyslexia and works with him to make the introverted child bloom. Like Stars on Earth includes seven Bollywood dance numbers, animated interludes and a brand new English-language track for a cross-cultural celebration of creativity and individuality. Disney’s first Hindi language release is available as a 3-Disc DVD/CD Set.
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By Kirit Shukla Tribute to Bollywood’s Past Lyricists S.H. Bihari : (1922– 1987) Shamsud Huda, also known as S.H. Bihari was born in the state of Bihar in 1922. After getting his B.A. degree at a Calcutta university, he migrated to Mumbai with his family in 1947. His recorded work is limited though he continued to write for the rest of his life. He wrote lyrics in Hindi and Urdu for about 35+ films in the late 1950’s and 1960’s. His songs in association with music director O.P. Nayyar and singer Asha Bhosle are popular. I do not know much details about his personal life. He died on Feb. 25, 1987, due to a heart attack. Some of his other all time hit songs: Dekho woh chaand chhupake karta hai kya ishaare, Na yeh chaand hoga; (Shart) Yeh hansta hua karvaan zindagikaa; (Ek Jhalak)
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Kajaraa mohabbatwaalaa, Aao huzura; (Kismat) Bhalaa karane waale; (Ghar Sansar) Kahaan chal diye, Kaun hai jo sapano me aajaa, Unse mili Nazar ke (Jhuk Gaya Aasman) Main shaayada; (Yeh Raat phir na aayegi) Aapa yunhi agar (Ek Musafir Ek Haseena) Aa jaa zaraa mere (Fire) and so on. His popular classic song: “Bahut shukriyaa badi mehrbaani... (Ek Musafir Ek Haseena)” is given in this issue of Saathee in Evergreen Classic Film Lyrics on page 24. February 2010
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Classic EVERGREEN FILM LYRICS
By Kirit Shukla Song: Bahut shukriyaa badi mehrbaani Film: Ek Musafir Ek Hasina Music: O. P. Nayyar Singers: Mohammad Rafi and Asha Bhosle Lyric: S. H. Bihari Year: 1962 Based on Indian Classical Raga: Bilaawal Thaat Taal/Rhythm: Kaharava Starring: Joy Mukharji, Sadhana
Bahut shukriyaa badi mehrbaani Bahut shukriyaa, badi mehrbaani, meri zindagi mein, Huzoora aapa aaye; kadam chhuma lun yaa, ye aankhen bichhaa dun, karun kyaa ye meri samajha mein na aaye; Bahut shukriyaa...karun pesha tumako nazaraanaa dila kaa, Ke bana jaaye koi afasaanaa dila kaa,khudaa jaane aisi suhaani ghadi phir, meri zindagi mein, Palat ke na aaye; Bahut shukriyaa..Khushi to bahuta hai, magara ye bhi gam hai,Ke ye saatha apanaa kadama do kadama hai,Magara ye musaafira duaa maangataa hai,Khudaa aapase phir kisi din milaaye; Bahut shukriyaa...Mujhe Dara hai mujhamen guroora aa na jaaye,Lagun jhoomane main suroora aa na jaaye,Kahin dil na meraa ye taarifa sunakara, tumhaaraa bane Aur mujhe bhula jaaye; Bahut shukriyaa, badi mehrbaani, meri zindagi mein, huzoora aapa aaye; Bahut shukriyaa... Meaning (Summary): Thanks a lot, it's very gracious of you, that in my life, your honorable madam, you have come. Shall I kiss your feet or avert my eyes? I don’t know what I should do! Thanks a lot… Shall I offer you the gifts of my heart, that let the story of heart be created. Only God knows if this beautiful moment will happen again. Thanks a lot… There is a lot of happiness, but there is this sorrow too.That our togetherness may be for just a few steps, But this traveller is asking in prayers , that God makes us meet again some day, Thanks a lot… I am afraid that I may be attacked with pride, that I may start dancing and be full of pride. What if my heart, after hearing your praises, becomes yours and forgets me.Thanks a lot, it's very gracious of you, that in my life, your honorable madam, you have come. Thanks a lot...
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Taan Aalaap Karanso.
Indian Classical Music
Antara – Nadir Dhitilaan Tadin Din Tananana, Sa Ni Dha Pa Ma Ga Re Sa Re Ma Pa Dha Sa, Saptaswara Trayograma Murchanadwikvinshati Taanaa Ekonpanchashat Ityetat Swarmandalam.
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Tappaa Tappaa is one of the major genres of musical tradition in North India. Tappaa comes from Punjabi word taap, meaning to jump. This is a beautiful style of classical singing in which bool and taan are thickly knitted at every possible step. Tappaa is believed to have originated from the musical talent of Ghulam Nabi Shori, i.e. Shori Miyan after getting influenced by folk music of Punjab and Sindh. Tappaa began as the folk song of camel-drivers of Punjab-Sindh region, so it contains the lyrics in Punjabi. Basically the lyrical content depicts the love and sorrow of separation of Hir and Ranjha or any lovers. Raags expressing romance, light mood or pathos such as Khamaj, Kafi, Bhairavi, Jhinjhoti, Tilang, Sindhura, Des, and Taals such as Punjabi, Pashto, Sitarkhani are popularly practiced for Tappaa. The special feature of Tappaa is the energetic Taan and uneven rhythmic accent. Shori Miyan composed ‘Tappaa’ using various ornamentations with Taan, Jamjama, Khatka, etc. In the Antara of the Tappaa, we find his name as ‘Shori’. There are two main styles of Tappaa singing, or gaayaki – Tappaa, in Gwalior Gharana and of Benaras Gharana. There are a few structural differences such as use of Taal and style of improvisation, but the fundamental principles are the same. The Laawani, Keertan and Natya-sangeet in Maharashtra are also influenced with Tappaa Gaayaki. Tappaas are also sung in different languages, such as Nidhubabu’s Bengali Tappaa; and the impact of Tappaa on the Rabindra Sangeet reflects the popularity of Tappaa as genre in the last century. Pt Kumar Gandharva and Pt Jitendra Abhisheki were the famous Tappaa vocalists from the Gwalior Gharana. There are still many others like Malini Rajurkar, Asha Khadilkar, Arti Ankalikar and Girija Devi, Rajan and Sajan Misra from Banaras Gharana. Along with vocalists, there are also quite a very few Tappaa instrumentalists, such as Pt. Budhaditya Mukherji (Sitar) and Dr. Arawind Thatte (Harmonium)
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Reinventing the Body, Resurrecting the Soul Author Deepak Chopra (Harmony)
Book Reviews
Review by Hena Sharma
The Sari Shop Widow Author Shobhan Bantwal (Kensington Publishing) Review By Swapna Krishna I’ve really enjoyed Shobhan Bantwal’s books. Her novels “The Dowry Bride” and “The Forbidden Daughter” both dealt with controversial subjects in Indian society. They were engaging novels that I enjoyed reading, so when I heard she had another novel coming out, I couldn’t resist it. “The Sari Shop Widow” is llighter in tone than Bantwal’s previous books, but it’s as captivating. I absolutely loved the character of Anjali. She was smart and savvy, a real role model for younger women, especially Indian girls. Though she had a breakdown after her husband died, she rebuilt her life, pouring her energy into something productive. It was great to see her declare that her life was not over, even though her husband had died. Her vulnerability also intrigued me. I could feel her anguish at the prospect of losing her shop and her anger at the thought that outsiders might be coming in and taking it over. Bantwal did a fine job of developing Anjali and making her seem like a real person. I also appreciated how modern the novel is. A lot of stories about Indians set in America tend to be fantasy stories in some ways – Indians residing in the United States, but living exactly as they would have if they had stayed in India. When you live in a foreign country, that culture will rub off on you. I liked that Bantwal incorporated both the traditional and the modern in this novel. For example, Anjali lives with her parents even though she is a thirty-seven year old widow, though there are also some practical reasons for that. Anjali also has a life of her own, however, one that she keeps secret from her parents. It’s a delicate balance that takes a deft hand to achieve, and Bantwal does it well. The story of :The Sari Shop Widow” is a bit of a fairy tale, but in a good way. I loved how Rishi came in as a knight in shining armor in order to save the shop, but Anjali wasn’t having any of it. It really reinforced the idea that she is a modern woman and wanted to be saved through her own hard work, not rescued by some guy she doesn’t know. Though the story focuses much more on Anjali’s development rather than saving the store, I enjoyed reading about how they turned the shop around. More details of that would have been nice. The Sari Shop Widow is a wonderful book for a lot of different audiences because it incorporates so many different genres. I highly recommend it.
Many people make New Year’s Resolutions to help motivate them into making positive changes in their lives. Sometimes all that is needed is a changed point-of-view to see a situation in a different light. Other times a breakthrough is needed in order to get out of a negative thought pattern and move forward. Bestselling author and motivational speaker Deepak Chopra’s books often challenge the reader to experience breakthroughs in thinking in order to improve quality of life. His latest book is no different in this regard. Chopra presents the concept that the human physical body is a constantly changing collection of cells, and that only by adding the element of our awareness, energy, or soul do we truly exist. Chopra has received numerous accolades as a motivational, spiritual speaker, but sometimes deciphering his message from his books can prove to be difficult, and sometimes confusing. In his latest book, “Reinventing the Body, Resurrecting the Soul,” Chopra tries to simplify his message. The first section of the book tries to get the reader to accept a different way of viewing the physical body and the physical world itself. He suggests that the real purpose of the human body is to join the visible and invisible realms by expressing intelligence, creativity, truth, love, and beauty. By the visible realm he means the physical world, and by invisible realm he refers to that energy or higher power, or the concept of our soul that we cannot physically see or touch. One fascinating idea that he presents is that our genes respond to our fears, relationships, habits, and environment. He shows that research is being done to show how positive lifestyle changes have been shown to alter genes associated with heart disease, inflammation, and even cancer. Practices such as Hatha Yoga, meditation, and social support of friends and family have already been seen as good preventative steps to take for good health. Now, Chopra shows that adopting these measures may stop or even reverse serious illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and high cholesterol, on a genetic level. Chopra presents a new view for our physical world around us as well. He contends that a major complaint of most people of the modern world is a lack of time when that is really not the true problem. He suggests the real problem is that chaos and unpredictability throw your timing or rhythm off, and cause stress, disorder, confusion, accidents, sickness, and chaos in your life. The simple solution he suggests is to “make time your ally” by keeping regular hours, avoiding drastic changes in diet and activity, reducing distractions, and basically simplifying your life using his many suggestions. Each suggestion is very simply stated but could be difficult to implement, and therein lies the challenge. For example,
Swapna Krishna writes a book reviews blog. Read her reviews at skrishnasbooks.com February 2010
continued on page 78 Saathee 30
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Not Anymore By Saritha Rai - GlobalPost.com NEW DELHI, India — From the inexpensive to the luxurious, from the compact to the large, from the locally made to the imported, the automobiles lined up for thousands of visitors to ogle. The new year’s auto showing season has already taken off in the unlikeliest of locations: India. And if the New Delhi Auto Expo is any indication, the interest here is not so much about the visitor numbers or all the shiny new cars. It’s about the recession-defying, double-digit growth rates of India’s auto market. “The shows at Frankfurt, Detroit and Tokyo are passe, the future of car shows is in India and China,” said Rajnish Aggarwal, who runs a catering business in New Delhi. Aggarwal, an auto fanatic who closely follows global launches and car specifications, said that the size and glitz at the event — with participants from 30 countries — suggested that the center of gravity of the global car market was shifting eastward. Global automakers are taking on the Indian market, which offers a chance to crisis-ridden production centers, such as Detroit, to haul themselves out of a very serious downturn. While the global economic recession caused a huge slide in car sales worldwide, “the overall growth rate in India has been 18 percent despite the downturn,” said Neeraj Garg, a director of Volkswagen Group Sales India. India is expected to continue growing at doubledigit rates in the next four to five years, said Garg, whose company is launching a small car, the Polo, in India. Volkswagen is not alone. On display at the expo, where the sub-$3,000 “Made in India” Nano made waves exactly two years ago, cars ranged from those costing a few thousand dollars to ultra-luxurious machines costing a couple of hundred thousand dollars, when including India’s stiff import duties. The country is expected to produce upward of 3.5 million cars in the next five years. That should help India vault to fourth place in the global car market, after China, the United States and Japan. The country’s 1.3 billion population encompasses those eking out a living on a couple of dollars a day to the billionaires who think nothing of splurging on luxuries such as yachts, jet planes and top-end cars. At the New Delhi Auto Expo, carmakers were obviously catering to these dissimilar segments. The bottom end, which accounts for more than twoFebruary 2010
thirds of sales, is burgeoning. Honda Motor unveiled the so far unexcitingly-named New Small Concept, while General Motors displayed its small car Beat and Toyota the tiny Etios. Hyundai, Suzuki, Ford and Volkswagen are also slugging it out here. At the other end of the spectrum luxury cars including Audi’s A7, Mercedes-Benz’s GL 350 CDI, BMW’s X1 and India’s own Tata Motors’ Jaguar XJ were all on display, targeting the growing sliver of Indian rich. Makers of high-end cars are expecting that wedge of the market to double in the coming years. Meanwhile, for the Indian consumer who for decades had nothing to choose from apart from two or three clunky models, a surfeit of riches awaits.
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Gypsy dance, Koya dance, Peacock dance, snake dance, Bhangra, Raas etc., check out Nazar Television on Sundays. I will be bringing you examples of these dances and its influence on Bollywood. We will also perform some of these folk dances during the dances of India performance on Saturday, April 24, 2010 at 4 pm in the CPCC’s Halton Theater in Charlotte, NC. Come and enjoy the traditions of India.
Dances of India By Dr. Maha Gingrich
For questions or comments contact Dr. Maha Gingrich via e-mail at: msgingrich@juno.com
Folk dances of India Folk dances always have a marvelous way of lifting our spirits with their rhythms and brilliant costumes. These dances are usually performed in groups to showcase the social nature of such dance forms. There are many differences between classical and folk dance styles. Classical dances tend to be subject to a defined order, pre-set form, specific hand gestures, and explicit footwork. These dances have to follow the rules and regulations established by the Natya Shastra tradition. On the other hand, folk dances are very spontaneous, less orderly, and allow much more flexibility in choreography. Displaying no inclination towards a rigid form, the whole depiction of folk art is guided more by the subject of the songs that glorify nature and its seasons, or express traditional occupations or in praise of deities. This untutored quality is very refreshing and charming. In folk dances we find the true urge of the people in general that has come down through the ages by
way of actual performance and remembrance of song and motif. Its survival was unsupported by the written word, and was stabilized because of its tremendous sociological impact and basis. Through these arts, different customs and traditions have been established. People were brought together to celebrate life in its many forms. With national consciousness of the arts growing from day to day, many of these beautiful expressive dances are coming to urban and international audiences and being received with enthusiasm and success they deserve. Now they are taking their place along with the classical dances in the furtherance of our cultural heritage. There is more demand for precise movements, coordination among dancers, formations, costume color combinations, exotic jewelry, music with heavy drumming and other percussions etc. I am not sure if we are just taking these folk dances to another level or if we are losing the freedom these dances provide to enjoy and participate without any formal training. It is wonderful, however, to see certain dance forms like Garba, Bonalu, and Bhangra are still a large part of our social interaction among all ages. If you want to see any of the folk dances, including, February 2010
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By Samir Shukla Tabla genius Zakir Hussain recently added another adventurous recording to his long and storied career. The Melody of Rhythm: Triple Concerto & Music for Trio features Hussain, banjo master Béla Fleck, and cellist/bassist Edgar Meyer. The trio collaborates with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra directed by Leonard Slatkin. Fleck and Meyer have worked together sporadically for over a quarter century and when commissioned to create a triple concerto, they filled the third part of the equation with Hussain, a natural choice for exploratory music. The acoustic recording is a blend of jazz, Indian, and Appalachian folk, classical, and adventurous instrumentation coaxing a new improvisational sound. Elements of gypsy swing add to the classical concerto with varied playing where the trio converses with the orchestra and performs as three parts playing into the whole. This collaboration involves patience and knowing the other players and their techniques. The trio composes and performs this task with exacting and meticulous effort. The recording requires patience from the listener as well, as each layer unfolds and the subtleties of the three instruments tell their own tales. Colorful Indian weddings consist of many segments and events including the baarat (wedding procession). The baarat band, usually a singer with an orchestra featuring horns and percussion, marches right along with the groom and his party that’s headed toward the bride’s house. Meet Sunny Jain, a percussionist based in New York City. He is a drummer and dhol master and has assembled a band called Red Baarat playing, what else, baarat (processional) music. Although you can’t peg them as simply a baarat band, the combo plays brass and bhangra that’s funky, decidedly Indian, but with a danceable flair. Their debut recording, Chaal Baby, features originals as well as brassy takes on Bollywood songs “Mehndi Laga Ke Rakhna,” and “Aaj Mere Yaar Ki Shaadi Hai.” There’s also a feisty version of Daler Mehndi’s “Tunak Tunak Tun.” Jain’s dhol is the centerpiece pounding traditional Punjabi folk music as well February 2010
as bhangra, while the horns evoke a steamy New Orleans brass band march. As musical paths around the world converge, more styles and genres like this are bound to converge. Jain and his musical cohorts played at several weddings and as their notoriety and demand increased, Jain embarked on a recorded project. Look for a feature on Sunny Jain, Red Baarat and his other projects on saathee.com as well as the March 2010 issue of Saathee. Bollywood star Shahrukh Khan’s upcoming film, My Name is Khan, has a fine soundtrack with six new tracks. The film is sure to be a hit, and the music, composed by Shankar-EhsaanLoy, is infused with Sufi inspired sounds and features vocalists Rahat Fateh Khan, Shafqat Amanat Ali and Adnan Sami. The music is somber, moody, and floats along a rhythm that’s likely to permeate throughout the film, as it does in the boombox. There’s the underlying rock foundation of “Rang De,” along with the meditative sufi tracks “Sajdah,” “Nooe E Khudah,” “Tere Naina,” and “Allah Ki Raham,” with its folky ghazal blend. The soundtrack, which also includes past hits “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai,” “Suraj Huwa Madham,” “Kal Ho Naa Ho,” and “Kabhi Alvidaa Na Kehna,” is slated for release in mid February.
Saathee 36
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Make words using 4 or more letters. The central letter must be used in each word. Use all letters for the subject word. 27+ words = Excellent; 20 to 26 words = Good; 19 or less needs to improve. (Solution at bottom of page)
First Person- Martin Luther King, Jr. By Bansili Desai (Grade 9) Martin Luther King Jr. stops by at oval office to check on Obama. He describes his visit... “Welcome. Take a seat my dear friend,” said President Obama as he greeted me. It was a pleasure to be in the White House. I took a seat staring at the bodyguards who stood close to Obama. “So what brings you here today?” “I’m here in your presence today because I would like to congratulate you on your achievement, but I’m also here to warn you,” I mentioned. “Warn you that there are people in the world who loathe you because of your color and you can’t let those people put you down no matter what they say. Always keep your head up.” “Yes sir, I have learned from the best. Standing in front of 1.8 million people on the day I officially became the President of USA was a dream come true. All those people who had supported me, made me realize that I was capable of making a change. It made me forgive all the others who showed a dislike towards me.” I chuckled, “I also see that you have won a Nobel Peace Prize just like me. It brings great excitement in me to see an African American President sitting in front of me today. Almost 50 years back it seemed like something impossible.” “I didn’t know that being a president was in my fortune. I didn’t know this is where I’d be today. It took courage and hard work just like how you stood up for the African Americans,” he pointed out. He shuffled in his chair still sitting straight and tall. “Yes it took courage, but I knew I had to stand up, otherwise this country wouldn’t have changed. “I’m here because of you, Dr. King, because you are my mentor,” explained Obama. “No you’re here in the White House because of February 2010
Word World (Solution): ACRE, CANE, CARE, CLEAN, CLEAR, CLUE, CRANE, CRUEL, CURE, EARN, LACE, LANCE, LANCER, LEAR, LEARN, LUCE, LUCRE, LUNE, LURE, ACRE, NEAL, NEAR, NUCLEAR, RACE, RALE, REAL, RENAL, UREA
Word World
Gandhi. John Lewis a close friend of mine had said the same. ‘Without Gandhi, there would be no Obama as president’. The words of Gandhi had inspired me and spoke to me only because they were true. There was no need for violence. And I want you to promise me that you will never use violence, Obama.” “I can’t make that promise to you because sometimes you have to use violence. Tell me, do you think nonviolence would work against Hitler in your time? Today would nonviolence work against Osama Bin Laden?” “Well you do have a point there, but only use force as your last resort. Make sure that you always try to resolve issues peacefully first,” I said “I sure will try my best. I think though that an important issue is education for the children. All children should get an education and no teens should drop out of high school. Speaking of children, my daughters should be back home from school. Let me bring them in, they would love to meet you.” Obama asked the guard to go get his daughters. Meanwhile Obama and I discussed some of America’s crises. Obama thought it was a bad time in America and that he was trying hard to make a change. I could see the keenness in his eyes. Suddenly two little heads popped in. continued on page 78
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Most people don’t know how to handle their life here. Do you see this in the world? Why are they pursuing life after death? What is the point? Anything that is not in your experience, there is no way to understand and analyze. This needs to be clear to every individual. People are always trying to understand life after death. You cannot understand anything which is in a different dimension than you are right now. The whole effort is to move to a different dimension. If that needs to happen, first you must stop understanding. You have to see that you cannot understand, and that there is no need to understand. It is the experience which takes you out of this dimension. If you try to understand a flower, what will you understand? In your attempt to understand it, maybe you will pull it apart petal by petal. But you will understand nothing. Maybe you will know its chemistry. Maybe you will analyze it and then you will conclude everything is proton, neutron, and electron. That is fine, but you will not know anything about the flower. Now people are trying to deliver spirituality as an understanding. Understanding is needed about how you are bound, that’s all. You cannot understand the other dimension. People are always talking about how God is, how heaven is. This will not lead you anywhere except to hallucinations. The only thing that you need to understand is how you are bound to your limitations. If you understand this and free yourself from those bondages, where you have to go you will anyway go. If I talk about the sky, it’s no use. What are the ropes which are tying you down to the earth? That is all that matters. Your business is with the ropes that are tying you down, not with the sky. If you untie these ropes, you will anyway reach the sky. When you reach there, only then you will know what the sky is. Till then, whatever you think about it, whatever understanding, whatever analysis you make, is coming from the limited dimension of where you are right now. There is no way to understand that which is beyond your present level of experience. So the Guru’s work is to help you to untie the knots with which you are binding yourself, and to show you where the knots are. And if you untie them and you’re ready, you are on the edge; maybe just with one knot left, then he can push you. If he pushes you when you have ten ropes tied down then it will damage you. He can push you only when everything is broken and just one single thread is hanging. Then he can push you. He can afford to push you because you will not break, only the thread will break. With Yoga, you can mature the body, mature the mind, and mature the energies so that slowly, these bondages and ropes that we are tying around us gradually are broken down. A moment comes when all you need is a Whoo! You will go.
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Saathee 40
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lem drastically changes. He is no longer caught up in superficial differences. Question has been asked, how is it possible for people to deny their cultural identities? It is not a question of accepting or denying personal cultural identities. We need to ask why human beings have divided themselves into so many different cultural, religious and national identities and what are the implications By Sardar Singh of this whole divisive process? The fact is that these One picks up the morning paper and finds that so identities have been imposed on the human mind and many terrible things are happening in different parts we stick to these identities due to psychological reaof the world. There is enormous confusion, violence, sons. Faith and belief provide some kind of a false sense brutalities, wars, terrorism and endless division caused by organized religions and nations that are of psychological security. If I defend myself physicaldriven by their own interest. There are divisions with- ly, that is natural, but when the psychological entity in the same religious groups due to differences in the “me” tries to protect itself psychologically through beliefs, ideas, and values. There are divisions within the process of identification, it creates all kinds of the countries due to power struggle between political problems for the individual and the society. The feeling that I am separate from you is the beginning of parties. We do get upset by what is happening in the world deception, the beginning of illusion. This illusion is the but vast majority of people shut out the impact by dis- cause of human ignorance. When we look at the human history and also at what owning responsibility for the sordid state of affairs, is happening now the problem of assigning it to the leaders in variattachment to labels appears to ous fields or to the care of the be quite formidable and one asks Almighty. There are, however, Realizing the fact that all human how does it matter if individuals serious people who continue to be disturbed by the events in varying beings are in the same predicament and here and there drop the labels? There is a feeling of helplessness degrees but do not find an adequate response to this ugly that we share the same consciousness we because one thinks that an individual cannot do anything to human situation. The way things are at present it must set aside our own particular ideas, change in the world? This, however, is not true. Human beings appears almost impossible that a beliefs, opinions and prejudices... share the same consciousness. drastic revolution can take place. This consciousness is the result of This feeling, however, is based on our relationship with each other. our past experience. We have Individual and society are inextriseen that human beings have not changed during the cably linked with each other and are constantly feedpast thousands of years in spite of so much misery and sorrow arising out of conflicts between religions ing each other. Any change in the mind of an individual is bound to affect the human consciousness. and nations. The idea that “I will change only when others We, however, do not realize that this feeling itself prevents us from looking at the problem with a fresh change” is negligent postponement of an urgent needand open mind. Past experience is based on past ed action. The real challenge of change does not lie thinking. If our thinking is the root cause of the prob- somewhere outside; it lies in accepting the responsilem we cannot rely on past experience to guide our bility for the mess that our own thinking has created. Realizing the fact that all human beings are in the actions. We need to directly look at the thought same predicament and that we share the same conprocess that creates the problem. sciousness we must set aside our own particular ideas, It is true that there are sharp differences between one person and another and these differences appear beliefs, opinions and prejudices, likes and dislikes and to be irreconcilable but we need to see clearly that also our desire for self-improvement, self-enhancedeeply, inwardly, psychologically human beings are ment and self-fulfillment, because these also distort the same. The factors that are common to humanity perception. Only then can we go deeper into the nature and are very crucial and cannot be ignored. We all face the structure of thought which is creating problems for all same life of sorrow, pain, grief, anxiety and uncertainty. We all suffer loneliness, conflict and confusion. human beings the same way. Only profound underThinking creates problems for human beings the same standing can bring about inward revolution. When one realizes the significance of clarity one way. The process, the modus operandi and the mechnaturally shares with others thus enlarging the circle anism are the same. People may have different ideas and they may have of individuals who are keen to respond in full measure different opinions but the reason why they believe in to the whole human situation. An individual who has insight becomes part of the something or the other or the reason why they form opinions and prejudices are the same. The process of blazing movement of understanding.
Blazing Movement of Understanding
identification and attachment to a particular group or nation is the same. When a person realizes the fact that we are all fundamentally the same his approach to the whole probFebruary 2010
Your comments and questions are most welcome.
Saathee 42
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Harnessing the Power of American English By Judith L. Bergman M.A. CCC International residents must look at the American celebration of Valentine’s Day on February 14 with some amusement. For those who have children in preschool or elementary school, the pressure is on to obtain a complete list of classmates and help your young child “address” little cartoon Valentines to each one. Each child hopes to bring home many little Valentines full of pop-up cartoons and jokes to show how many “friends” he or she has. When I co-taught a preschool class for languageimpaired children in the 1980’s in Massachusetts, we created a pretend “Post Office” in the classroom to teach concepts and vocabulary through play acting including buying “stamps” and “mailing” and “delivering” the children’s valentines. Everyone had to “mail” a valentine to every classmate. No one could play favorites. Then, the class had an exciting field trip (for four-year-olds) and visited a real Post Office for a behind-the scenes tour. Valentine’s Day is, of course, big business for florists and for those who make and sell greeting cards, gourmet chocolates and heart-shaped cakes or other sweet treats. Ideally, one tries to find many occasions throughout the year to express love, caring and appreciation to one’s spouse or sweetheart etc. In fact, Valentine’s Day may cause a guilt trip for those who forget to buy at least a card and a bouquet of roses. The holiday may trigger feelings of loss or regret for those whose lives may be filled with a loving family, good friends and respected colleagues but who, through choice or circumstance, have no “romantic” attachment. So, since this column is about mastering meaning for speakers of English as a second language we will cave in to the influence of the Valentine theme and look at idioms for “love” “roses” and “dear” 1 Match the idioms and expressions with the correct meaning: ___1. Not for love or money ___2. Love-hate relationship ___3. Puppy love ___4. No love lost ___5. Love handles ___6. Love is blind ___7.Tough love ___8. Love somebody to death ___9. A labor of love ___10. All’s fair in love and war ___11. A Dear John letter ___12. Hang on for dear life ___13. Smell like a rose. February 2010
a. Holding on tightly or being tenacious b. Strict management to help someone you care about change dangerous behavior c. A relationship with both devotion and animosity d. An easy life; a luxurious situation e . A message saying that you want to end an intimate relationship f. A situation in which two people don’t like each other g. To seem innocent even if one has caused the trouble or scandal h. When you love someone so much, you can’t see their faults. i. Romantic infatuation between young people that they usually outgrow j. An excuse for deception in order to get what you really want k. Impossible l. To feel extremely strong affection m. The essence of something is more important than its name. (From William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”) n. An extra layer of fat around one’s waist o. A task done not for money but for personal satisfaction or to please or help a loved one Notice that the meanings of many of these expressions are not always in line with the spirit of Valentine’s Day. Some describe quite negative situations! Suggestions to increase your word power this month: 1. Newspaper headlines are filled with idioms and words that have multiple meanings. The Sports section has the most colorful headlines but you will find idioms and “word play” all through the local papers. Use context clues and verify your “guess” by using the on line “Idioms: The Free Dictionary” to see examples of usage for any word. (See the reference below). 2. We italicized six more figurative expressions or idioms that we used in this article. Can you write your own sentences using the pressure is on, play favorites, behind the scenes, guilt trip, cave in and in line? Reference: 1 http://idioms.thefreedictionary.com
Answers: 1-k, 2-c, 3-i, 4-f, 5-n, 6-h, 7-b, 8-l, 9-o, 10-j, 11-e, 12-a, 13-g, 14-d,15-m.
Mastering Meaning
Judith L. Bergman M.A CCC is the director of Triangle Speech Services specializing in foreign accent modification. Contact: jlbergman@mindspring.com or 919-489-5464 www.trianglespeech.com
Saathee 44
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www.dalesindiancuisine.net Wishing You a Happy Valentine’s Day!
and keep your faith, for Life is the Gift of Nature and Beautiful Living is the Gift of Wisdom.
ASTRIDE
CONTINENTS
3
By Chandan Sen Artifacts of Civilization Some years ago, in the staff lounge of Enloe high school, I objected to calling certain societies “civilizations” because they practiced human sacrifices. A colleague quickly corrected me, saying that anthropologists had other yardsticks to measure progress, such as whether agriculture was practiced or not. By this yardstick, Mayan and Aztec civilizations indeed pass the test; they are considered to be ancient civilizations where, incidentally, human sacrifices were performed. As an engineer I’m more curious about the artifacts that different civilizations produce. Fine gold filigree work, or massive mind boggling pyramids, or tiny microprocessors containing 5 million transistors all fascinate me because they are artifacts of civilizations. The pyramids, though marvels of human ingenuity and coordination, were yet built using slave labor, so there was more coercion than coordination involved. In making a microprocessor many people are involved, and one needs a billion dollar fabrication facility to actually produce a working product. My despair with Calcutta, my hometown, is that it has reached a point of degeneration where no worthwhile artifacts are produced. Granted, Amartya Sen produced books—-which are a form of mind artifacts— - and his Nobel Prize citation praised both his theoretical work and practical field work in Bangladesh. Amartya Sen can arguably be called a product of Calcutta while D.K. Sachdev is a product of Bangalore. In winning the Arthur Clarke award, Sachdev was cited for both the space and terrestrial segments of the INTELSAT satellite system. Recently he’s written a second book called “Success Stories in Satellite Systems” to follow up on his first book “Business Strategies for Satellite Systems.” As an Indian and native of Calcutta I am proud to have been able to read and understand Amartya Sen’s book. Similarly, having grown up in Bangalore, Sachdev’s success in the West makes me feel very proud to be an Indian. Both Sen and Sachdev are about ten years older than me and hence serve as wonderful role models. Many years ago, Alan Sillitoe wrote a book, “The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner.” Sillitoe’s career had been interrupted by illness, so he turned to writing and, by dint of hard work became a successful writer. I am also reminded of the famous Bengali song, ”Runner.” A man’s life is almost like a marathon race. It keeps getting better and better till the finishing line is crossed. The tragedy happens if a man loses heart, takes to drink, or loses his ideals in some other way. As Swami Vivekananda has written, “We lose because we lose track of our ideals.” So take heed, my young readers, February 2010
Austerity Versus Opulence We all know people who, for various reasons, live austere lives. The difference is great between, say, a priest who fasts and a beggar who starves. One is a king of the spiritual world, the other is—-well, simply a beggar. Mrs. Whittaker, our 93 years old landlady in England in 1961, had been through the rationings of two world wars. But in 1961, long after World War II had ended, she still avoided buying luxuries like TV, simply because she’d got used to living an austere life, and found it attractive. My friends have all done well in life, and lead opulent lives. But I like to think that God blessed me with a childhood illness that has had the effect of making me poor. Poverty has been much studied by welfare economists and the like. It is rightly a condition that needs to be rectified. Yet monks and priests routinely take vows of poverty, celibacy and service. Is wealth, then, sour grapes to me? I honestly don’t know but I do know that the Almighty singled me out as an example to others—-and perhaps even to teach me a valuable lesson. Which would you rather have—eating well for 30 days and thereby feeling overly satiated, or living frugally for 29 days and then feasting on the 30th? The former is the present lifestyle of many, while the latter was the reality of my grandparents. I have mentioned, in passing, Aesop’s fable of the “sour grapes.” Perhaps also, in advocating an austere lifestyle, I’m invoking another of his fables, that of the “dog who lost his tail.” Far from trying to induce you try a restricted lifestyle, I still urge you to give it a thought. I may be a failed materialist or a spiritualist by choice but I do know this—-that I am riding the wave of the future. The world, it is said, is a bridge, cross it but don’t build on it. Maybe that statement is not to be taken literally. Maybe, having been given a lemon, I’m simply trying to make lemonade. Or maybe I am the lemonade! The Advent of a New Year With the coming of the New Year one is given an opportunity to make resolutions to consolidate the gains of the past year and break new ground. The recently concluded climate change conference in Copenhagen may be described as a “successful failure.” Heads of states left the meeting resolving to act on climate change in their own countries but without binding agreements. Surely where self-interest is involved, we can expect to see nations taking the global warming issues seriously and enacting measures to reduce greenhouse gases—-without verification. Every generation in every age faces challenges that are both new and unique. As a person on the verge of
Saathee 46
continued on page 78 Chandan Sen Contact: chandansen33@hotmail.com
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College of Your Dreams Beckons
How do you obtain financing?
date is much earlier than the federal filing date. In general, the earlier you apply, the better your chances are, if you qualify, as money does run out on a first come first serve basis. In order to complete the FAFSA, parents and students should go to: www.fafsa.ed.gov. Instructions for completing the form are available at this site. In order to complete the form, you will need the following:
• Your Social Security Number. • Your driver’s license • Your 2009 W-2 Forms and other records of money earned • Your (and your spouse´s, if you are married) 2009 Federal Income Tax Return. • Your Parents´ 2009 Federal Income Tax Return (if you are a dependent student) By Christine M. Hall • Your 2009 untaxed income records • Your current bank statements A recent article in the New York Times detailed the • Your current business and investment mortgage dilemma of a young lady who was unable to attend the information, business and farm records, stock, bond college of her dreams. While the cost of attending and other investment records many colleges has definitely become staggering, it • Your alien registration or permanent resident card (if should NOT be to the detriment of attending a college you are not a U.S. citizen) that will provide a sound academic education, as well as an enriching social environment. On February 13, 2010, the College Foundation of While the cost of attendance should always be con- North Carolina (CFNC.org) will be holding FAFSA sidered in a student’s search for a college, this does not Day. This is a free event open to all North Carolina stumean you must eliminate out of state, private and even dents who plan on attending college in 2010-2011. elite schools from your search. In fact, if done correct- Financial aid officers and other volunteers will be availly, a student’s college list will consist of several types of able to assist with the completion of the FAFSA applischools from all of the aforementioned categories. cation. Students can sign up online to attend one of Understanding your strengths, and weaknesses, as over 100 workshops across the state of North Carolina. a student is the key to locating a college that is a fit academically and socially. Students need to under- Locally, the dates for priority filing of the FAFSA are: stand that in applying to college, they need to discov- • Wake Forest - February 15 er the school where they “fit” the profile, and ulti- • Meredith College - February 15 mately they will find a school that wants them. In • UNC Chapel Hill - March 1 searching for merit money, once you know you are a • NC State - March 1 fit, you must then look to see if you are academically • Duke - March 1 above the average and that your extra-curricular activ- • ECU - March 1 (priority) ities are unique or carried out in great depth. In some • UNCG - March 1 (priority) cases, this may also mean that your ethnicity is not In addition to the FAFSA day, there are other types the norm and the school is looking to increase the of assistances available, for free, to anyone seeking diversity of your particular nationality. The more unique and appealing you are to a school, the more help in completing the FAFSA. To begin, FAFSA itself money they can offer you. Accomplishing this task offers assistance on its site through their help system The following site then opens up the door to being able to pay for the col- at www.fafsa.ed.gov/help.htm. may also be useful: www.fafsaonline.com. lege of your choice. It is important to remember that while every school While most parents and students are aware of the need provides different types of merit and financial aid - all to complete a FAFSA form in order to receive financial aid, schools require at least the completion of the FAFSA, and in many cases, the completion of the CSS Profile many often overlook the additional CSS/Profile form. The FAFSA filing deadline for college-bound and (https://profileonline.collegeboard.com/prf/index.jsp) that current college students is quickly approaching. The is required by most private, and some public universities. FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is the Unlike the FAFSA, the CSS/Profile is a way to provide nonfederal form used to determine what type and how federal funds to students by way of grants and scholarmuch financial aid a student is eligible for. This form is ships. You will need the same information to complete the required by all colleges, public and private, in deter- CSS/Profile as you do for the FAFSA. The filing date for the CSS/Profile is usually two weeks before the priorimining financial aid awards. While the FAFSA has a federal filing date of June 30, ty FAFSA deadline for each individual school. However, 2010, each state and school has a different deadline. it is best to check with each institution you are applyIn the state of North Carolina, that date is different ing to in order to be safe. In North Carolina, the folwith every school and students must check with the lowing schools require the CSS/Profile: financial aid administrator for the date of the school • Duke, Wake Forest, Davidson, and UNC Chapel Hill. they are interested in. In most cases, the state filing continued on page 78 February 2010
Saathee 48
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Healthwise By Anjana Agarwal Hemp is the New Flax
stores. When buying, look for an organic, cold-pressed and raw variety, and always store hemp oil in dark-colored bottles in the refrigerator to maintain its chemical stability and freshness. Hemp Milk is a dairy-free alternative to milk that is widely available in natural food stores, and comes in original (plain), vanilla, and chocolate flavors. You’ll find it on the grocery shelf with other shelf-stable milk alternatives (like soy milk, rice milk, etc.). Hemp Granola is a tasty and nutritious breakfast. It has a nutty flavor, crunchy texture and a boost of nutrition, thanks to the hemp: omega-3’s, omega-6’s, fiber, and protein. The same brand also makes tasty hempenhanced instant oatmeal, granola bars and more. You’ll find such products in the breakfast aisle of your natural foods store. Hemp Protein Powder can make a quick, high-protein meal on the go. Just add it a scoop to your favorite smoothie combination, or mix it into juice, milk, yogurt or other liquids. You’ll find hemp protein powder in the protein supplement section of natural foods stores. Unlike the whole hempseeds and oils, the protein has been isolated, so these powders are fat-free. An example is Nutiva’s Organic Hemp Protein Powder, to which no flavors or sweeteners have been added. Just two scoops add 11 grams of high-quality protein and 3 grams of fiber for 120 calories. Hemp Seed Butter can be used like peanut butter. Spread it on crackers or bread; use it as a dip for apple slices; or replace it for any nut butter a recipe might call for. It’s a rich source of healthy fatty acids and protein, too. Like natural peanut butter, which has no additives, you should stir it to mix the oils and store it in the refrigerator to prolong shelf life and prevent oil separation. Hemp Nuts are a deliciously crunchy snack when eaten plain but can also be added to your favorite trail mix, cereals or salads. You might also find Hemp Nuts in the bulk foods or natural snacks sections.
Hemp use dates back to the Stone Age. Imprints of hemp fibers have been found in 10,000-year-old pottery shards in Asia. Clothing, shoes, ropes, paper, and, probably, wallets, were all made from these fibers. Later, in medieval Germany and Italy, hemp was a common ingredient in recipes like pies and soups. Besides having an abundance of uses, hemp is also easy on the eco-system. It requires little to no pesticides while cotton, for example, is one of the most heavily-sprayed crops in the world. Hemp also replenishes the soil with nutrients, controls erosion, and produces oxygen. Just as growing hemp is a boon to the environment, eating it is a boon to your health. Although the leaves of the hemp plant can be eaten, the part of the plant best known for nutritional value is the seeds. These small seeds are highly nutritious, containing essential fatty acids, amino acids, and minerals. About a third of the weight of the seed is made up of oil, and most of that oil is the healthy variety: ALA (alpha-linoleic acid, a type of Omega-3 fat) and linoleic acid. These essential fatty acids (EFA’s for short) can benefit your health in many ways. Hemp seeds also contain complete, high-quality protein and all eight essential amino acids. Because of U.S. regulations, you won’t be able to grow your own hemp plants or buy them at your local farmers market, but you can still reap the benefits of this amazing plant thanks to a growing number of food products at your local grocery store and online. For individual nutrition counseling consult a registered dietiHempseed and its oil have a unique, nutty flavor, simi- tian. Many insurance companies now reimburse the consultation fee. lar to flaxseed. A continually expanding variety of other hemp food products, like granola, snack bars, protein powders, Anjana Agarwal, MS, RD, LDN, CNSD, CDE waffles, and even hemp milk, hemp tofu, and hemp Registered Dietitian butter are available these days, usually at natural foods Phone: 704-890-3162 stores and online retailers. Keep in mind that the least Carolina Nutrition (Adult & Pediatric) processed products will be the most affordable, so if www.carolinanutrition.com you’re itching to add the healthfulness of hemp to your diet, try plain hemp seeds and create your own recipes. Here are just a few examples of what you’ll find at the grocery these days. Hempseeds can be eaten raw, added to smoothies, cereals and other recipes, and used in baked goods like muffins, breads and granola bars. You can find shelled/hulled hempseeds in the bulk foods section of natural foods stores, online, and sometimes packaged in the baking aisle of the supermarket. Because they contain primarily unsaturated fat, hemp seeds should be stored away from light and heat, and refrigerated. Hemp Oil is used mainly as a supplement and has a fairly strong nutty flavor. It’s nutritionally superior to both olive and flaxseed oils and can be used in salad dressings, smoothies and other recipes but shouldn’t be heated or cooked. You’ll find it in opaque bottles, in the section of refrigerated supplements in natural foods
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The Stock Tickers
JPMorgan. As of the writing of this article, twelve potential bidders with background in media and movie-making (including Fox Studios, Lions Gate Entertainment and Warner Brothers) have expressed interest in bidding for MGM and Reliance Entertainment is indeed among them. MGM has appointed boutique investment bank Moelis & Co, headed by Ken Moelis, a UBS veteran who spearheaded the Swiss Bank’s growth in the US, to find potenBy Rajesh Ganatra tial buyers. The lenders, who are driving the transaction, are seeking a little over $2 billion, but bids could Here are some important quotes as of 01/22/2010 come in considerably lower than that. Currently, MGM has debt of $3.7 billion from a 2005 buyout by a group of private-equity and media firms and the valuation of Mumbai Sensex: 16,819.62 Karachi, Pakistan KSE-100 Index: 9,725.83 $2 billion is the market value of the debt which is tradDow Jones Industrial Average (USA): 10,171.86 ed among its creditors. The lenders want a premium NASDAQ Composite (USA): 2,290.34 to the $2 billion but that does not appear likely to S & P 500 Index (USA): 1,091.45 materialize. Despite all of the difficulties that Pakistan has faced Currency Exchange Rates: Indian Rs. 46.73 = $1.00, over the past few years in many different aspects, the Pakistani Rs. 84.30 = $1.00 Pakistani equity markets performed extremely well during CY2009. The Karachi KSE-100 index started Gold Price: $1016/ ounce (Mumbai) Silver Price: $17.02 / ounce (Mumbai) off CY2009 in the 5700s and managed to reach above 9,000 by 12/31/2009. The Pakistani Rupee depreciat(Note —- Mumbai prices quoted in U.S. dollars were calculated using the above exchange rate and the metric factor ed approximately six percent against the US$ in of 28.6 grams equals 1 ounce. Generally speaking, there are CY2009 - it started off CY2009 at 78.50 to the US$ slight variances in prices of precious metals between India and closed out CY2009 at 84.5 to the US$. So far in & U.S.A. due to market conditions / exchange rates). CY2010, the Rupee has oscillated between 84-85 to the US$. The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan After a 70 percent move during CY2009, the first 13 trading days of CY2010 resulted in a 10 point gain recently announced that Pakistan will take part in for the Sensex: a move from 17,464 on 12/31/2009 trade caravans in Iran and Turkey, which will travel to to 17,474 on 1/20/2010. As of 1/4/2010, trading at various cities within the two nations by road. Many the Mumbai Stock Exchange got underway at 9:00 Pakistani products will be showcased and a Pakistani a.m. instead of 9:55 a.m. Adding nearly an hour to delegation will also take part in trade exhibitions in the trading day will enable investors from other Asian Tehran and Mashhad. “Dawn” is Pakistan’s leading countries who are within a time zone or two to partic- English-language newspaper and it has sponsored the ipate in the early trades of the Indian financial system. ‘Dawn Education Expo 2010’, which will be held at 5Tata Communications recently unveiled its largest star hotels in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad, respecdata center in the country in Pune, Maharashtra - it is tively beginning February 27-28, 2010. The Expo will indeed a massive facility, spanning nearly 55,000 facilitate students to enroll in institutes of higher learning, such as colleges and universities. square feet. After a volatile yet positive CY2009, the U.S. Equity The data center offers a broad portfolio of services including co-location, managed hosting, storage and Markets started CY2010 on a quiet note - the Dow managed security services. The data center will be on Jones Industrial Average had rallied nearly 4,000 Tata Communications’ “Tier-1 IP” structure and that points off the March 2009 lows and the economy will enable it to provide high capacity Internet, MPLS seemed to be coming back, as measured by several and global ethernet services. Tata Communications leading indicators. Financial and technology stocks has already invested around INR 125 crore in the Pune rebounded the most but the prime question hovering data center, and intends to quadruple the investment around is that “is the recovery real and sustainable?” over the next three years to Rs500 crore based on Perhaps that is the reason for the sideways action in market conditions and demand for various services. the market, a lull in the bull’s gallop because quesTata Communications is the largest player in the data tions are abound about the rebound. Despite good center business in India with 42 facilities worldwide, earnings reports from several financial and technology companies, the markets took hard hits in the three spread out over nearly 1-million square feet. During mid-January 2010, Anil Ambani-controlled days spanning 1/20/2010-1/22/2010 because Reliance Entertainment put in a bid for the iconic film President Obama proposed increased oversight of studio Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, or MGM, as it seeks to banks in order to prevent them from engaging in increase its presence in Hollywood beyond its existing transactions that are too risky. The U.S. Dollar contininvestment in Steven Spielberg’s DreamWorks Studio. ued to be under pressure due to the soaring budget MGM owners a library of more than 4,000 movies, deficits and national debt, and in nominal terms, prewhich includes classics such as the Pink Panther, a cious metals appreciated sharply during 4Q2009 but series of James Bond movies and comedies such as then stepped back from the peaks during mid-January Legally Blonde. MGM has been put up for sale by its 2010. However, Crude Oil has remained in a fairly lenders, a consortium of over 100 financiers led by continued on page 112 February 2010
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#6 Spend money to make money. Success requires an investment of both time and money. If there’s an area in your business (or life) where you need help to do better, then commit to making it happen by finding a way to pay for some assistance. Buy a book (or borrow it from the library), sign up for a teleclass, watch a free video on YouTube, Google search for free articles or papers on the topic, and spend a few hundred dollars to get an hour or two of professional advice. Most coaches, consultants and professionals have the ability to offer one or two hours for a reasonable price with no long-term attachment. You and your business are worth it.
Marketing Turnaround By Gail Martin Forget Resolutions: Achieve Your Goals
Most of us make New Year’s Resolutions every year—often, the same resolutions year after year #7 Step outside your comfort zone. If what you’re because we don’t put the resolve into the resolution to doing now is working for you, congratulations! I make it happen. bet there are still some ways to tweak it for even It’s easy to get distracted by all the bright, shiny better results or more efficiency. If you’re not ideas that dart across our paths, and discover that achieving the goals you’ve set, it’s time to get bold we’re not only not arriving at our destination—we’re and try something new. (The coaching and completely lost. resources in step 6 can help with this.) You’ll be With that in mind, I’d like to offer my tips for setting amazed at how opening yourself up to new opporgoals that get accomplished: tunities can change everything for the better! #1 Start at the beginning. For marketing, that means go back to your business plan and re-think your top goals. Are they still your priority? Has the economy changed your thinking? Make any adjustments at the business plan level first. #2 Make sure you’re in sync. Now that you have your business plan goals straight, take a look at your marketing actions. Do you have actual goals with ways to evaluate each to know if they’re working? Do they tie into a specific business goal? If not, line them up! #3 Re-think your time. Does your calendar corroborate the goals you say you want to achieve? For example, if you say you want to be more active on social media but there’s no time blocked out (and ferociously guarded) to spend on social media, you’re kidding yourself. Put your top priorities on your calendar first and work everything else around it. (This includes exercise, family and self-time, too.) #4 Revise your vision board. You’ve written down your goals in #1 – 3. Now it’s time to picture them. If you had a vision board for 2009, remove the items you’ve achieved with an attitude of gratitude, taking the time to celebrate each one. Then, as you add new ones, picture achieving each one in your mind as you paste them on. Put the board where you’ll see it all the time. #5 Surround yourself with the right people. No one does it alone. If you can’t find a group that suits your needs or inspires you to reach your goals, make one! Think about who you know who might be trying to reach similar goals—losing weight, gaining clients, launching new products, etc. Invite them to create a mastermind group, book club or monthly lunch meet-up so you can encourage each other, be accountable, and share ideas and resources. Plan to connect online in between to keep the energy going. February 2010
Gail Z. Martin owns DreamSpinner Communications. Contact her at dreamspinnercommunications@earthlink.net
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Personal Finance By Narendra Dixit
Why Wills and Trusts? Wills and trusts make clear what your intentions are and make sure that your assets are directed to the appropriate parties. Benjamin Franklin pointed out that nothing is certain but death and taxes. While taxes are frequently discussed, most people prefer not to talk about death. But if you choose not to prepare for the inevitable, you could well jeopardize what you’ve worked for all your life. The scenario for the unprepared is not pretty. Where there’s no will, there’s no way Dying without a will means your property will be distributed according to the laws of your state of residence, not necessarily according to what you would have wished. For example, you may have siblings or step-children whom you would like to provide for, but without a will they might not qualify for inheritance under most state laws. The court would appoint an administrator to manage the property in your estate and make distributions to surviving family members. Your surviving spouse might receive only a portion of your property, regardless of your wishes. Your children would be treated equally regardless of their needs and would receive property outright, typically at age 18. The court could require that fees be paid by your estate to the administrator, reducing the amount available to your loved ones. Where the surviving spouse is appointed guardian of the children, the State’s Probate Court will generally require an accounting of how, why and where he/she spent the child’s money. Other negative consequences of dying without a will might include unnecessary estate taxes as well as not communicating any arrangements you might have wished to make for special family members, friends or charities. To avoid these unintended consequences, it’s essential to have a will, no matter your age or the size of your estate. Honoring your Wishes A will is the first step in an estate plan. It declares the wishes of an individual in the disbursement of his or her estate, providing for the legal distribution of assets. A properly drafted will enables an individual to select the beneficiaries and provides a line of successive beneficiaries who will inherit the property in the February 2010
event of the death of the primary beneficiary. It can also help protect property for children by establishing trusts, naming trustees and empowering them to manage the property in the estate and distribute income and assets to the beneficiaries according to your wishes. A will can help save on estate taxes by creating trusts that can bypass the estate of a surviving spouse, or provide bequests to charities, which are generally deductible from the taxable estate. Administrative expenses can also be saved through provisions in the will. A will also prevents unnecessary emotional burdens on your family, by making clear what your intentions are and making sure that your assets are directed to the appropriate parties. You should consult a qualified attorney to discuss your specific situation and the laws of your particular state. The Role of Trusts A trust is generally used to provide for a spouse, dependents, charities and others through the naming of a trustee who holds and manages the assets for the benefit of the trust’s beneficiaries. Trusts are often established to minimize taxes in large estates or to provide for heirs who may not be able to handle the responsibilities themselves. You determine the terms of the trust. For example, a trust can provide for the “sprinkling” of income and/or assets among all children according to changing needs, as decided by the trustee. Distribution of trust assets could also be set aside for the children to be used upon attaining a specific age, or fractions of the principal can be distributed at different ages. A trust can also protect inherited property from the creditors of a beneficiary. Most states have enacted “spendthrift” protection laws that generally prevent a creditor from attacking assets which are held in trust for a beneficiary. Be advised that this document is not intended as a legal or tax advice. Accordingly, any tax information provided in this document is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed on the taxpayer. The tax information was written to support the promotion or marketing of the transaction(s) or matter(s) addressed and you should seek advice based on your particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor. Consult your tax or legal advisor regarding your individual situation. GE-45447 (12/08)
Narendra Dixit offers securities through AXA Advisors, LLC (member NASD, SIPC) and offers annuity and insurance products through an insurance general agency affiliate, AXA Network, LLC and its subsidiaries. 704-540-1509
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For the Greater Good A new year resolution By Amit Arya Well, the new year is now well under way. May the new year bring upon you good luck, good times and may you get all that you need and most that you want. The year promises to be a good one. For one, the stock market is already gaining ground it had lost in previous years. For the Chinese, this year starts the advent of the year of the tiger which they will usher in with much fanfare and delight in February. The air is full of optimism and it is a good thing to have when we start on a journey through time. So any new resolutions this year? Some of the most common resolutions include losing weight, making more money and having more time with the family and at some point in my life I have made one or more of these resolutions. How much I was able to exact out of my resolutions? Well, that’s a tale for another day. But as tradition must continue, I decided to dole out a few resolutions again this year, one of which is to continue to devote myself to non-profit causes like American Red Cross, United Way, Network of Indian Professionals and Crisis Ministry to name a few. Of the few resolutions I made last year, this one was something that I was definitely able to stick to throughout the year. Mother Teresa once said, “I have found the paradox that if I love until it hurts, then there is no hurt, but only more love.” The selfless Mother Teresa devoted her entire life to the service of the poor, sick and needy. She is an epitome for us all and while we cannot match her feats nor her sacrifice, we can certainly make a difference in the community in which we live, grow and evolve. Every great journey begins with a first step and I would encourage our readers to take that first step this year and help out with any one of non-profit organizations in the area. Here are a few suggestions. The American Red Cross (www.redcross.org) is an iconic name and symbol. Founded in 1881, the organization aims to prevent and relieve suffering. One of the most critical organizations during natural disasters, Red Cross provides vital supplies like blood, food water etc to the needy. Red Cross runs blood donation drives throughout the year. For people who cannot make it to blood donation sites, their mobile center brings the organization to you. The blood you donate helps save the life of a fellow human being and only a few things are nobler than that. United Way (www.liveunited.org) is another nonprofit organization with a mission “to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities.” Founded in 1887, it has seen an exponential growth in its members and efforts around to world in improving people’s February 2010
lives. United Way’s campaign slogan of LIVE UNITED “is a call to action for everyone to become a part of the change.” Mahatma Gandhi left us with the wisdom to “be the change you want to see in the world.” and United Way gives everyone a perfect opportunity to be and live the change. Network of Indian Professionals or NetIP (www.netip.org) is another organization close to my heart as I have been involved with this vibrant organization for almost three years now. NetIP is a nonprofit organization that seeks to facilitate the personal and professional growth of South Asian professional in North America. While NetIP is a valuable networking organization, its mission is broader and seeks to improve and enhance the communities in which we live. In North Carolina, NetIP has seen tremendous growth and has not become a state chapter with locations in Charlotte and Raleigh. NetIP conducts 2 events each month that facilitate networking opportunities and foster relationships in its members. Crisis Assistance Ministry (www.crisisassistance.org) is another one of my favorite non-profits and I love to volunteer at its free store located at 500-A Spratt Street near Charlotte downtown. Crisis Ministry’s mission is to help move individuals in need towards self-sufficiency. With its mission to inspire the “community to justice and generosity,” Crisis Assistance Ministry provides help and hope to those who most need it. So what does a person gain from helping out with a non-profit. Surely, there can be no profit to be had as it defeats the very purpose after which such organizations are named. But can we measure the intrinsic value of love, generosity and care with which our family and friends nurture us. Though we find reasons to excuse ourselves from community service, are always hard pressed to stop and help someone in need, we make every effort to bestow our love on the ones near and dear to us knowing and content in the knowledge that they will surely do the same for us in our time of need and despair. It is only human to think and act in such a fashion. However, to help a stranger in need, to bestow hope where none existed before, to reach out pull someone out of their despair, that is an act of divine intervention, at least to the recipient of such help. So this year, let us be those words that soothe not shun and anger, the hands that uplift and not just take without giving back, the eyes that see, care and cry and not that ignore, the feet that move to help instead of turning and walking away. Let us be the agents of that divine intervention which every human being seeks when faced with insurmountable odds in the face of abysmal despair. In short, let us be human and let us lend a hand. If you are still choosing your resolutions this year, hopefully you will include this one in your list.
Amit Arya amit@netipnc.org NetIP North Carolina NetIP NC - Carolinas Chapter of North America’s largest Network of Indian Professionals
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job are also treated differently. For more detailed information on how to determine your tax status, visit online www.h1bvisataxes.com.
TAX Matters
Top Tax Deductions for H1, L1 Consultants Once the tax resident status is determined, H1 L1 consultants may be eligible for certain itemized tax deductions in addition to all of the tax deductions that US citizens are normally eligible. Here are the top By Krutika Chheda itemized deductions that can be used in case of temporary US workers. A word of caution, itemized deducH1, L1 Visa Holder Special Tax Situation and tions may not always be suitable. You must review Deductions your overall tax situation before deciding on itemized Last month we discussed tax programs suitable for deductions. different tax situations. Among the different tax situations we covered, H1, L1 visa holder tax situation Home Office Deduction for IT Consultants stands out as a special tax situation. Several H1, L1 Home Office Deduction was considered a red flag by tax payers have reached out with questions around the many CPAs, inviting IRS Audit for many years. But that uniqueness of the H1, L1 visa holder tax situation. may no longer be the case, with more and more busiWith the technology spending tightening and IT con- nesses and individuals taking advantage of working sultant billing rates getting crushed, every dollar saved from home and maintaining a healthy work-life balin taxes seems like gold! ance. IRS is well aware of the rising trend in working from home office. As long as you use the “Home Does H1, L1 Tax Situation require Special Office” as IRS defines it. This one deduction alone can Treatment? save you several hundred dollars in Federal and State Can H1, L1 visa worker tax situation be treated like taxes. If you are working in a city away from your ordinary Tax Payers filing 1040 Tax Return or does it company’s principal office (base office) and for the require any special treatment? Most of the popular tax convenience of your employer, use your home or software and tax consultants may treat H1, L1 tax apartment to work on client projects, meet with clients returns no different than ordinary US citizen Tax on a regular basis and have part of your home or Returns. Although IRS regulations allow for special apartment exclusively for use as an office, you may be treatment in case of temporary workers in the US. able to deduct part of your rent or mortgage under the There are specific guidelines in the IRS code to deter- business use of your home deduction. If you rent part mine the tax status as well as calculate deductions of your home or apartment to your employer, or if your based on special conditions due to temporary work employer reimburses part of the rent and other status. Since H1, L1 tax payers account for less than expenses to you, your deduction will be limited. Once one percent of all tax payers, most popular tax soft- you have determined that you qualify for the home ware and tax consultants may not pay specific atten- office deduction, you may be able to add several other tion to the regulations that govern US temporary direct and indirect expenses such as repairs, utilities, worker taxes. Perhaps it is not cost effective for the big phone, internet etc. The deductions, however, may be tax software companies to invest in programming code only partial based on percentage of your home used that covers H1, L1 special tax situation. Often H1, L1 for business. tax payers are surprised when they find out the benefits offered in the tax code, especially during the initial H1, L1 Dependent Tax Deductions, ITIN year of their assignments in the US. Unfortunately, Once your tax residency has been established, H1, most of them miss out on these benefits without the L1 workers may be able to take full deductions for their help of a qualified tax professional that focuses on H1, spouses and dependent family members. In case L1 related tax issues. dependents do not qualify for a social security number, they may be eligible to get an ITIN (Individual H1, L1 Visa Workers may be considered US Taxpayer Identification Number). ITIN Application is a Resident for Tax Purposes paper process along with the tax return. Unfortunately Most H1, L1 consultants may be waiting for years you may not be able to e-file your taxes in many states for their US resident card (Green Card), but IRS may in the first year that you apply for ITIN. already consider them as US Resident for tax purposes. The first tax distinction IRS makes is between a Business Travel Expense Deductions Non Resident Alien and a Resident Alien from a tax Business travel expenses, or away from home code perspective. IRS has specific guidelines to deter- expense deductions can be taken for non-reimbursed mine Resident Status for tax purposes through the continued on page 80 “Substantial Presence Test.” Once it is established that you are a US Resident (for tax purposes only, your Krutika Chheda immigration status may still be H1, L1 or other temK&M Accounting and Tax Services porary work visa), you are subject to US taxes on your www.kmaccountant.com global income, including income in your home country. You can Contact her at Incomes from different sources such as passive investkmchheda@kmaccountant.com ment income as opposed to active income through a (704) 502 3960 February 2010
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I tend to watch the movers and shakers in order to know what’s going on with business and upcoming trends. When a company like Pepsi Cola decides Social Media is a better gamble than running commercials during the big game on Super Bowl Sunday, I tend to put stock in that.
Social Media by Wendy D. Wells
Wendy D. Wells is President of WD Wells Writing and Editing, LLC. She is a Charlotte, NC based, Telecommuting Copywriter, Professional Blogger and Editor. wwells@wendywellswrites.com
If Social Media in lieu of advertising during the Super Bowl is good enough for one of the biggest beverage companies in the world, do you think it might be good enough to deserve a few of your dollars from your advertising budget? Pepsi made an unprecedented decision and pulled the plug on advertising during the Super Bowl. Instead, they are investing some of the money they saved ($20 million), in a Social Media campaign. This was the first time in more than 20 years that Pepsi did not have commercials air during half time, before or after the big game on Super Sunday. The ad execs at Pepsi have seen the writing on the wall…or in this case, they’ve seen the writing in the blogs. They have seen the numbers of TV viewership drop and believe the advertising budget is best spent off of TV, and into Social Media. Other large companies are dedicating hefty portions of their budgets into Social Media, too. According to President and CEO Larry D. Woodard of Vigilante, a Manhattan ad agency, Toys-R-Us created a Facebook page that grew anywhere between 40,000 and 95,000 per day after it was launched. That’s an amazing amount of growth for one single business, regardless of how large the company! So what is the buzz about? Well, for one thing, Social Media builds communities between businesses and their audience, or buyers. The conversation about most sizable companies is already taking place online somewhere, anyway. Having it on a website controlled by and run by those companies just makes sense.
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However, Social Media might not be right for you. The different ways of interacting through Facebook, Twitter, Digg, Youtube, and many other sites could be something that doesn’t appeal to you at this time. Maybe you’re unsure about how the metrics or the Return on Investment (ROI) will be calculated. If you’re prone to sitting back and waiting to see how something plays out before you get involved, go ahead and wait. However, you’re going to be behind when you decide to join the rest of us.
Christine M.Hall, Ed. D. College Consultant 24 years of Experience Member: HECA, SACAC, ASCD, Cary Chamber
Social Media is a constantly changing and evolving animal. Learning how to Twitter was important to understanding how to utilize a tool like Hootsuite. Most of us progressed from Myspace to Facebook, which helped us understand the concept very quickly, simply because we were familiar with the former. Just keep in mind that if you dragged your feet before you succumbed to email, eventually you began to use it for nearly all of your correspondence. This is technology that is not going away. When the time comes to begin a Social Media campaign for your business there will be plenty of specialists around to help you, there already are. February 2010
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control the beneficiary. Please note that no one factor is decisive and adjudicators will review the totality of the circumstances when making a determination as to whether the employer-employee relationship exists.
Immigration Matters
Q: What types of evidence can I provide to demonstrate that I have a valid employer-employee relationship with the beneficiary?
USCIS Issues Guidance Memorandum on Establishing the “Employee-Employer Relationship” in H-1B Petitions U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued updated guidance to adjudication officers to clarify what constitutes a valid employer-employee relationship to qualify for the H-1B ‘specialty occupation’ classification. The memorandum clarifies such relationships, particularly as it pertains to independent contractors, self-employed beneficiaries, and beneficiaries placed at third-party worksites. The memorandum is titled: “Determining Employer-Employee Relationship for Adjudication of H-1B Petitions, Including Third-Party Site Placements: Additions to Officer’s Field Manual (AFM) Chapter 31.3(g)(15)(AFM Update AD 10-24).” In addition to clarifying the requirements for a valid employer-employee relationship, the memorandum also discusses the types of evidence petitioners may provide to establish that an employer-employee relationship exists and will continue to exist with the beneficiary throughout the duration of the requested H-1B validity period. Q: Does this memorandum change any of the requirements to establish eligibility for an H-1B petition? A: No. This memorandum does not change any of the requirements for an H-1B petition. The H-1B regulations currently require that a United States employer establish that it has an employer-employee relations with respect to the beneficiary, as indicated by the fact that it may hire, pay, fire, supervise or otherwise control the work of any such employee. In addition to demonstrating that a valid employer-employee relationship will exist between the petitioner and the beneficiary, the petitioner must continue to comply with all of the requirements for an H-1B petition including: • establishing that the beneficiary is coming to the United States temporarily to work in a specialty occupation; • demonstrating that the beneficiary is qualified to perform services in the specialty occupation; and • filing of a Labor Condition Application (LCA) specific to each location where the beneficiary will perform services. Q: What factors does USCIS consider when evaluating the employer-employee relationship? A: As stated in the memorandum, USCIS will evaluate whether the petitioner has the “right to control” the beneficiary’s employment, such as when, where and how the beneficiary performs the job. Please see the memorandum in the links in the upper right hand of this page for a list of factors that USCIS will review when determining whether the petitioner has the right to February 2010
A: You may demonstrate that you have a valid employer-employee relationship with the beneficiary by submitting the types of evidence outlined in the memorandum or similar probative types of evidence. Q: What if I cannot submit the evidence listed in the memorandum? A: The documents listed in the memorandum are only examples of evidence that establish the petitioner’s right to control the beneficiary’s employment. Unless a document is required by the regulations, i.e. an itinerary, you may provide similarly probative documents. You may submit a combination of any documents that sufficiently establish that the required relationship between you and the beneficiary exists. You should explain how the documents you are providing establish the relationship. Adjudicators will review and weigh all the evidence submitted to determine whether a qualifying employer-employee relationship has been established. Q: What if I receive or have received an RFE requesting that I submit a particular type of evidence and I do not have the exact type of document listed in the RFE? A: If the type of evidence requested in the RFE is not a document that is required by regulations, you may submit other similar probative evidence that addresses the issue(s) raised in the RFE. You should explain how the documents you are providing address the deficiency(ies) raised in the RFE. Adjudicators will review and weigh all evidence based on the totality of the circumstances. Please note that you cannot submit similar evidence in place of documents required by regulation. Q: Will my petition be denied if I cannot establish that the qualifying employer-employee relationship will exist? A: If you do not initially provide sufficient evidence of an employer-employee relationship for the duration of the requested validity period, you may be given an opportunity to correct the deficiency in response to a request for evidence (RFE). Your petition will be denied if you do not provide sufficiently probative evidence that the qualifying employer-employee relationship will exist for any time period. Q: What if I can only establish that the qualifying employer-employee relationship will exist for a portion of the requested validity period? A: If you do not initially provide sufficient evidence of an employer-employee relationship for the duration of the requested validity period, you may be given an
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The Chai Table Saathee Readers’ Forum Facing the fear By Ananya Mallavarapu It was peaceful here Claire had to say. The park wasn’t somewhere one usually found her in the winter but here she was. While preferring the indoors during winter, she sometimes felt the need to be outside, to enjoy the rush she experienced from spending a few silent minutes with nature. She saw two figures in the distance and acknowledged them when they made their way over. Claire had left her hometown years ago for the urbanized life of Boston. She missed things about life in Cape Cod, that was sure, but seeing the person she missed most at this moment she didn’t know what to do. He approached her with a little girl next to him and smiled in greeting. “It’s been a while Claire.” Claire regarded her best friend. College and maturity had changed them both for the better. David was now a teacher at the same high school that they had graduated from. He was wiser and accepted things. She still remembered the times when he truly was her best friend; years back in high school. They were still close now, but three years of no contact had undoubtedly caused a rift. “How have you been?” She began ready to face her fears. She hadn’t returned to Cape Cod for years three in fact, three years that she spent earning her reputation as a ruthless Boston lawyer. Being here, in her hometown, she remembered events in her life and the important days they occurred on. She could see in her mind the day she left for college - nearly fifteen years ago, and now sitting here next to David, she remembered the day she left him. “It’s been good.” David watched his daughter play on the swings. The years had been good and bad for him. He’d gotten married once, eight years ago, and his wife after giving him a beautiful daughter had left. It was fine living with a six-year-old girl, but at times he wished he could have gone back and fixed things in the past. He wished he’d seen the signs sooner so that his daughter could have grown up with a mother. But right now what he wished for most was to return to three years ago and undo the past. Both the friends remained in silence as they looked at the little girl who was now pushing herself on the swings. “She’s six now.” David stated pointing to his daughter, “Becca loves the swings.” Claire nodded, knowing that she needed to face David now before things escalated. She had ended their friendship, relationship, interaction, whatever she wanted to call it, abruptly, and she was unsure of where they stood at this point. “David what are we?” She stated cutting him off. “I know what I did was stupid, but I just couldn’t think. I didn’t know what to do. I wasn’t ready to be what February 2010
you needed me to be.” She had finally let her tears and emotions free, and was scared of the outcome. These thoughts had been plaguing her for three years and she needed to just let them out now. She needed to tell him. “Do you think you’re ready now?” David questioned after a few moments. He too had spent the last three years thinking: What if he did this, what if he did that? It was all in the past now and he just decided to wait to see what was going to happen. A slight wind blew and Claire stared at the sky behind the playground. It was a dull winter gray, with trees silhouetting the landscape and she admitted that after three years of thinking of the answer to David’s question she wasn’t sure of the answer still. “I don’t know.” Claire shifted her gaze to her companion stating her answer honestly. His age was starting to show in his face now. There was a look in his eyes - a look that showed just how much he had gone through in the past years. “I want to try.” Claire added looking at him. “I was scared and so I left, and now I’m still scared but I think I’m ready.” David smiled at her and gently held her hand. “We’ll take things slow.” “No!” Claire shouted, embarrassed at having suddenly screamed her dissent. “When I said try I meant yes. I know that things can’t just happen this fast but three years have told me just what I’ve missed. I should have been there for you when Becca found out about her mother; I should have been there for everything. And I wasn’t. We had something David and I want to get it back.” David sighed, turning to his daughter who had now stopped in her play to look at the two adults. “Are you sure? Because I still love you Claire. When you left, I was afraid I’d pressured you into a relationship you didn’t want. Don’t do this just for my sake.” “I’m not. I’ve come back for good.” David stood up and walked towards his daughter. When he approached her, he turned to Claire. “Let’s go home. I have some hot chocolate waiting. And we can talk some more.” A couple was waiting on the sidewalk in the fall. They were waiting for someone to leave a school bus and soon they were tackled by a little girl who eagerly gushed to them about her first day of first grade. “And you know what? Now everyone wants to meet my new mommy! You’ll come visit won’t you?” “Yes.” Claire answered, squeezing David’s hand. She was ready to go on and create a new life. Ever since she’d started law school she’d been alone until four years ago when she began seeing David. Now, she knew that she was an accomplished woman who had finally found her spot in life. She may have had to drop a hefty salary in Boston for life in Cape Cod but she was silently glad that she did. “Mrs. Griffin, what’s on your mind today?” David asked noticing she was lost in her thoughts. “Just happy to be here Mr. Griffin.” She answered with a reassuring squeeze of his hand. We welcome submissions to the Chai Table. Send your essays, poems, short stories or travelogues to www.saathee.com
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Mar 10: 3rd ODI - West Indies v Zimbabwe @ Arnos Vale Ground, Kingstown, St Vincent Mar 12: 4th ODI - West Indies v Zimbabwe @ Arnos Vale Ground, Kingstown, St Vincent Mar 14: 5th ODI - West Indies v Zimbabwe @ Arnos Vale Ground, Kingstown, St Vincent
The Cricket Forum By Rajesh Ganatra Hello Cricket Fans! There’s a lot happing in the world of cricket these days. Here’s some action coming up in the next few weeks. Afghanistan, Nepal and Hong Kong are the latest non-Test countries to indicate they will apply for inclusion in the cricket section of the Asian Games in Guangzhou in November. Potential participants must apply to the Asian Cricket Council to take part in the men’s and women’s tournaments, to be played using the Twenty20 format. India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are expected to field teams, although there is doubt their squads will be full strength. As the hosts, China are an automatic inclusion, while Japan had earlier said they will apply. Eligibility is restricted to passport holders. The Asian Hong Kong Cricket Association General Manager, Danny Lai, told the Asian Cricket Council website this wouldn’t be a problem for the men’s team. “We will have no problems, all the Pakistanis have Hong Kong passports,” he said. “The best of the Under-19s currently in New Zealand for the World Cup will feature as well as the seniors in the squad we send to Guangzhou.” — cricinfo.com
Australia visits New Zealand 1st T20I: New Zealand v Australia at Wellington - Feb 26, 2010 2nd T20I: New Zealand v Australia at Christchurch - Feb 28, 2010 1st ODI: New Zealand v Australia at Napier - Mar 3, 2010 2nd ODI: New Zealand v Australia at Auckland - Mar 6, 2010 3rd ODI: New Zealand v Australia at Hamilton - Mar 9, 2010 4th ODI: New Zealand v Australia at Auckland - Mar 11, 2010 5th ODI: New Zealand v Australia at Wellington - Mar 13, 2010 1st Test: New Zealand v Australia at Wellington - Mar 19-23, 2010 2nd Test: New Zealand v Australia at Hamilton - Mar 27-31, 2010 South Africa visits India Feb 6-10, 2010: 1st Test: India v South Africa at Nagpur Feb 14-18, 2010: 2nd Test: India v South Africa at Kolkata Feb 21, 2010: 1st ODI: India v South Africa at Jaipur Feb 24, 2010: 2nd ODI: India v South Africa at Kanpur Feb 27, 2010: 3rd ODI: India v South Africa at Ahmedabad For interesting stats and a table that shows the “Highest Individual Innings” in Test Cricket Play, visit www.saathee.com/the-cricket-forum. For updates on cricket matches visit saathee.com
West Indies visit Australia 1st ODI: Australia v West Indies at Melbourne - Feb 7, 2010 2nd ODI: Australia v West Indies at Adelaide - Feb 9, 2010 3rd ODI: Australia v West Indies at Sydney - Feb 12, 2010 4th ODI: Australia v West Indies at Brisbane - Feb 14, 2010 5th ODI: Australia v West Indies at Melbourne - Feb 19, 2010 1st T20I: Australia v West Indies at Hobart - Feb 21, 2010 2nd T20I: Australia v West Indies at Sydney - Feb 23, 2010 Bangladesh visits New Zealand 20 over match: New Zealand v Bangladesh at Hamilton - Feb 3, 2010 1st ODI: New Zealand v Bangladesh at Napier - Feb 5, 2010 2nd ODI: New Zealand v Bangladesh at Dunedin - Feb 8, 2010 3rd ODI: New Zealand v Bangladesh at Christchurch - Feb 11, 2010 Test: New Zealand v Bangladesh at Hamilton - Feb 15-19, 2010 England visits Bangladesh Feb 28, 2010: 1st ODI - Bangladesh v England @ Mirpur Mar 2, 2010: 2nd ODI - Bangladesh v England @ Mirpur Mar 5, 2010: 3rd ODI - Bangladesh v England @ Chittagong Mar 12 - Mar 16, 2010: 1st Test - Bangladesh v England @ Chittagong Mar 20 - Mar 24, 2010: 2nd Test - Bangladesh v England @ Mirpur Zimbabwe visits West Indies Feb 28: 20 over match - West Indies v Zimbabwe @ Queen’s Park Oval, Port of Spain, Trinidad Mar 4: 1st ODI - West Indies v Zimbabwe @ Providence Stadium, Guyana Mar 6: 2nd ODI - West Indies v Zimbabwe @ Providence Stadium, Guyana February 2010
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Book Reviews
Children’s Corner
continued from page 30
continued from page 38
he suggests that we should not multitask, but rather pay attention to one thing at a time, and focus on the moment. We are told to “put our house and finances in order, avoid high-risk situations, stay within your comfort zone, and become emotionally resilient.” Each one of those tasks can be a huge challenge but ultimately will lead to a less-hurried, more peaceful flow of energy in your life. Eventually, the goal is to “live your life as if you have all the time in the world.” The second half of the book is the actual ‘self-help’ section that includes many practical ideas for a more fulfilling life. Chopra illustrates many of his points through people’s life stories. The major idea to ‘resurrect’ the soul seems to be to lead a life that is more in harmony with the world around you so that you are more at peace, and ultimately more happy. Some of the suggestions include getting out of bad habits, letting go of the notion of being ‘right’ all the time, being merciful, available, and generous so that your soul will evolve through you. The book wraps up by presenting the ten steps to wholeness that connect your mind, body, and soul. The ideas are presented with great insight and encourage the reader to commit to a deeper awareness, focus on relationships instead of consumption, and to embrace every day as a new world. Many of Deepak Chopra’s books are meant to give advice on how to have a more peaceful and rewarding life. In this book his ideas are presented in a simple format.
“Hello Dr. King, it’s very nice to met you,” both Malia and Sasha said. “Very nice to met you too,” I replied as I stuck my hand out for them to shake. “May I ask you a question?” Malia asked eagerly. “Well go right ahead.” “I wanted to know how you felt when you were up on the podium reading your ‘I Have A Dream’ speech? And if you want relive that moment again?” “I had felt a little shaky but I had also felt confident. Shaky because there were many people out there waiting for me to speak. Confident though because what I had to say was important. Reliving the moment would not be something I would really look forward to because I know that the experience I had on August 23, 1963 was my dream come true. I wouldn’t want to change that moment in any way,” I responded. “Thank you,” replied Malia. Sasha finally spoke, “Daddy we have to go to my sports practice.” “Yes we have to get going. It was nice talking to you, Dr. King. Thank you and I hope to see you again.” President Obama got up to shake my hand, and the guards were ready to lead me outside. “Thank you too. Bye for now,” I waved to President Obama and his children.
Hena Sharma is a software developer living in Cary, who enjoys blogging about the books she’s reading on her website “www.henasgoodbooks.com”
Send submissions for possible inclusion in the Children’s Corner to: saatheemag@hotmail.com
College of Your Dreams continued from page 48
Astride Three Continents continued from page 46 sixty, I look on the next generation to gear up to the twin challenges of terrorism and environmental concerns. Certainly, the world is much more than the antics of nations such as Iran, North Korea and now Yemen, and we must not lose track of notable advances in arms reduction talks, space exploration and the like. Last year President Obama received the Nobel Peace Prize. Apart from anything else, this signifies European approval and blessings on what he has achieved so far and perhaps more importantly, on what he still has on his agenda. Republicans would do well to note that conservative politics has its limitations and that one simply cannot ignore global trends. With the world’s population still increasing at an alarming pace, and resources dwindling day by day, certain paradigms that have stood the test of time need finally to be overhauled. “Big” is no longer synonymous with “great” and Schumacher’s saying “small is beautiful” needs to make a comeback. Unbridled consumption and a purely materialistic lifestyle are on their way out. We need to temper the Dow Jones Industrial Average with spiritual values like sacrifice, giving and self-denial. I am not trying to be unique here, only practical. The long-standing relationship between Mankind and Mother Earth needs to be reevaluated. February 2010
Finding the perfect college fit does not, however, always guarantee you will be awarded merit-aid. Every college has its own method and means for awarding aid, and it is not just based on academics. Elite colleges provide the least amount of non-need based financial aid, as their student profile if full of the best and brightest students. However, they do provide great opportunities for lower income students with outstanding academics. Other colleges, however, may be looking for more diversity - they may give more money to students of other cultures. Smaller or private schools may be looking to recruit from other parts of the nation. And some schools may be looking for students to build their less popular majors. The bottom line is that no student should ever be “disappointed” with the college that they are choosing to attend before they even start school. There are hundreds of great colleges out there that are eager to offer students money to attend their school. If you are willing to do your homework, attending the college of your choice can be affordable and attainable. Christine M. Hall, Ed.D. is the Founder of CMH College Consulting which advises and assists families with all aspect of the college preparation and application process. Contact: chall@cmhcollegeconsulting.com or 919.535.8833 or www.cmhcollegeconsulting.com
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Immigration continued from page 68
this information with the initial submission will delay processing of your petition.
opportunity to correct the deficiency in response to a request for evidence (RFE). Your petition may still be approved if you provide evidence that a qualifying employer-employee relationship will exist for a portion of the requested validity period (as long as all other requirements are met), however, USCIS will limit a petition’s validity to the time period of qualifying employment established by the evidence.
For more information on USCIS and its programs, call 1800-375-5283.
Q: What happens if I am filing a petition requesting a “Continuation of previously approved employment without change” or “Change in previously approved employment” and an extension of stay for the beneficiary in H1B classification, but I did not maintain a valid employer-employee relationship with the beneficiary during the validity of the previous petition?
meals, lodging and travel if you have a regular job somewhere else, and are on a temporary assignment for work or training. Sec. 162(a) of the IRS Code limits the period to less than one year. So for example if your employer posts you in a different city on a temporary project for eight months, you may qualify to take all of your meals, lodging and travel expenses as deduction. If your employer reimburses you any of the expenses, your deduction may be limited. IRS is pretty aggressive about this deduction. In the past some large IT outsourcing companies may have taken advantage of this provision in the IRS code. Make sure you consult with your tax accountant and evaluate the overall audit risk of your tax return.
Tax Matters continued from page 64
A: Your extension petition will be denied if USCIS determines that you did not maintain a valid employeremployee relationship with the beneficiary throughout the validity period of the previous petition. The only exception is if there is a compelling reason to approve the new petition (e.g. you are able to demonstrate that you did not meet all of the terms and conditions through no fault of your own). Such exceptions would be limitImmigration and Taxes Matters Together ed and made on a case-by-case basis. Many H1, L1 workers may be in the immigration process for their Green Card and eventually their Q: What if I am filing a petition requesting a “Change of Employer” and an extension of stay for the beneficia- Citizenship. During approval for the Green Card as well ry’s H-1B classification? Would my petition be adjudi- as Citizenship, having your tax status clear with the cated under the section of the memorandum that deals IRS is critical. Pending tax audits, penalties or tax dues, may negatively impact your immigration case as with extension petitions? well as your potential to sponsor others. Having a good A: No. The section of the memorandum that covers immigration lawyer and a reliable tax accountant may extension petitions applies solely to petitions filed by provide some peace of mind as you go through the the same employer to extend H-1B status without a immigration and tax matters together. Another emergmaterial change in the original terms of employment. ing risk that IRS and tax community is observing is the All other petitions will be adjudicated in accordance with trend in getting taxes filed by preparers outside the the section of the memorandum that covers initial peti- country. Many small and large sized tax service companies have outsourced tax preparation with tax pretions. parers outside the US filing taxes on behalf of their Q: I am a petitioner who will be employing the benefi- clients. In most cases, all is well until an IRS audit gets ciary to perform services in more than one work loca- triggered. You will definitely need someone that is tion. Do I need to submit an itinerary in support of my authorized to represent you in front of the IRS and based in the US. Putting at risk your entire immigrapetition? tion process to save a few dollars in tax preparation A: Yes. You will need to submit a complete itinerary of fees may not be a wise decision in the long term. services or engagements, as described in the memo, in order to comply with 8 CFR 214.2(h)(2)(i)(B) if you are Keep in mind this column and the articles published employing the beneficiary to perform services in more here are only meant to provide high level information than one work location. Furthermore, you must comply about taxes and in no way should you consider this as with Department of Labor regulations requiring that you tax advice. I hope you’ve started thinking about savfile an LCA specific to each work location for the bene- ing more of your hard earned money, paying less to ficiary. the IRS and at the same time reduce your immigration risks as you brave through the economic head winds in Q: What happens if I do not submit evidence of the a recession. Consult your Tax Advisor regarding your employer-employee relationship with my initial petition? individual tax situation and your immigration attorney for any immigration related situation. A: If you do not initially provide sufficient evidence of an employer-employee relationship for the duration of This Article provides only an overview to the complex Tax the requested validity period, you will be given an Laws. It is not exhaustive nor a substitute for Independent opportunity to correct the deficiency in response to a Tax Advice provided by a Tax Accountant or a Tax Attorney request for evidence (RFE). However, failure to provide familiar with your case. February 2010
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Community Focus Events of Note Nuv Yug’s India Fest 2010 Nuv Yug is a cultural organization with a mission to promote awareness of Indian cultural arts and heritage, striving to create synergy among various cultural groups from the South Asian region. Nuv Yug’s online system for India Fest 2010 is open now. Visit the website and review various guidelines. Once you have registered a userid, you will be provided your very own dashboard to keep track of your activities on the website. Review the appropriate guideline from the sign in page. India Fest 2010 Auditions are on Sat. Feb. 13, 2010 at the Holshouser Building, State Fairgrounds, Raleigh. Bollywood singer Shreya Ghoshal will perform on March 19 beginning at 7pm. India Fest 2010 will be held on Sat and Sun, March 20-21, 2010, Dorton Arena, State Fairgrounds, Raleigh. Info: info@nuvyug.org. www.nuvyug.org. Boogie Woogie Fever! By Manisha Dass Boogie Woogie, the popular Bollywood dance reality TV show, which has swept through India allowing participants to showcase their talent is now coming to Raleigh-Durham! Simultaneously, auditions will take place and have been taking place all over the country. Finalists from the North Carolina chapter will go on to participate on a national level in Chicago. This is the second year where talented dancers from North Carolina will be represented in the national level. One participant is chosen from the junior category (ages 6-13) and one from the senior category (ages 14-21). Both will continue onto nationals in Chicago, and if selected, to participate in Boogie Woogie’s Chalo America segment, competing with finalists from all over the country. Boogie Woogie Chalo America 2009 was held in Chicago again and hosted by Bollywood celebrity, Pooja Batra. The celebrity judge last year was Bobby Moon, acclaimed R&B singer from Texas, whose heritage traces back to Kerala, India. Auditions will be held on February 28, 2010 at Sedy Jones Auditorium, St Augustine’s College in Raleigh. Sony Entertainment Television, the channel which airs the TV show, will be coming to Raleigh to film the auditions, which this year, is being held in the form of a stage show. Participants are asked to come prepared as though this was their final performance (i.e. dressed in costume and with prepared music). Participants are given the opportunity to choose three songs, from which the judges will select one which they come prepared to perform on the day of the show. Interested participants who comply with the age requirements of the show are encouraged to grab the dancing shoes and boogie down at the Boogie Woogie auditions. For more information, visit www.boogiewoogienc.com and download an application. February 2010
Abhivykati’s Marathi Ekankika Utsav (One-ActPlay Festival) After last year’s house-full event, Abhivyakti is coming back for second thematic presentation with one serious and another comedy Marathi Ekankika on Feb 20, 2010 beginning at 3:30pm at Garner Historical Auditorium, Raleigh NC. Last year’s Abhivyakti’s “Mahabharatache Uttar ramayan” was a hit comedy play with a refreshing skit of characters who tried to overcome their personal physical shortcomings and work towards presenting a flawless “comedyof-errors” show. This year’s Ekankika festival is based on the theme “Guise and Disguise.” One play is the serious themed “Veshantar,” with a story line that sheds light on how people change based on their monetary gains. Media folks who treat people like objects. It revolves around how a simple priest’s family life shatters completely when three different women (one helpless window who likes to live in dark and two reporters who are after story material) come together. What brings these women together? How they change a simple priest’s life? The other play is a comedy comedy Ekankika called “Bheshantar,” a comic story of “unestablished” advocate who is tired of constant nagging by his wife. He comes across a daring idea to stop the nagging and get rid of the annoyance, while keeping the best of his wife. How does he execute his plan? Does he succeed in getting rid of nagging and keep best of his wife or does he fall in his own trap? What happens to him and his wife? The tickets are on sale now, call or write for further information. Info: Snehal Bhagwat 919.303.2081 (snehalsb@hotmail.com), Mayura Bhandarkar 816.529.7937 (mayuravb@gmail.com), Sanjay Bhasme 919.462.0006 (anjali_bhasme@yahoo.com).
Community Opportunities Ninth Annual Five Ventures Business Plan Competition Begins The Charlotte Research Institute at UNC Charlotte has launched the 2010 Five Ventures Business Plan Competition with a call for business plan entries. Local entrepreneurs throughout the Southeast region can now submit executive summaries in order to compete for more than $100,000 in cash and in-kind services. To date, Five Ventures has serviced in excess of 60 startup companies. During the past several years, these companies have raised approximately $40 million in private equity. The deadline for business plan applications is Feb. 16, 2010. Five Ventures is open to any aspiring entrepreneur with an early-stage highgrowth business within the Southeast region of the country. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to submit their
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executive summaries via www.FiveVentures.com. Startups from the following sectors are encouraged to apply: Pharmaceutical, Medical Devices, Energy, Green Tech, Information Technology, Software-as-aService, Advanced Manufacturing, Advanced Materials, Retail and Student-led businesses from any sector. Finalists will receive one-on-one mentoring and coaching from a network of more than 50 volunteer professionals throughout the region. The finals of Five Ventures will take place, April 13, 2010 at the Barnhardt Student Activity Center on campus. Five Ventures continues to seek sponsors, coaches and aspiring entrepreneurs interested in participating in the program. For more information, visit www.FiveVentures.com. The Charlotte Research Institute is the portal for business-university partnerships at UNC Charlotte. CRI includes a number of multidisciplinary research centers and The Ben Craig Center, a business incubator. CRI supports new research ventures, partnerships with regional and national enterprises, and spin-off companies created from UNC Charlotte research results. The centers focus on Precision Metrology, eBusiness Technology, Optoelectronics and Optical Communications, Nanoscale Science, Visualization, Motorsports and Automotive Research Engineering, Bioinformatics, Life Sciences, Energy Production and Infrastructure, Sustainable Design, and Biomedical Engineering Systems.
Community Reports Ambassador Meena Shankar Visits Charlotte Indian Ambassador Meera Shankar visited Charlotte on January 21, 2010 to attend several events. Her day began with a 9am talk on WFAE radio’s “Charlotte Talks” program. She gave a speech at the World Affairs Council of Charlotte luncheon beginning at noon where she discussed U.S.-Indian cooperation in a historical context, the current global order, and the multi-dimensional aspects of the relationship between the two countries. She also appeared at Hindu Center around 3:30 pm to meet with local children and their parents. She capped off her day with an informal meet and greet and a speech where she talked and answered questions. The World Affairs Council of Charlotte luncheon featured several speakers and dignitaries. Local dance teacher Indu Minisandram presented a bharat natyam classical dance performance featuring five of her students. Ambassador Shakar spoke about the recent State Visit of the Prime Minister of India, where President Barack Obama praised the United States’ relationship with February 2010
India as “one of the defining partnerships of the 21st century.” She addressed the mutual security needs of the United States and India, the threat of terrorism, and economic future of both nations. She spoke eloquently about the rise of Asia that is, “reordering relationships, India has vital stakes in the stability of each part of Asia.” The luncheon was a soldout affair. In the evening a group of local community leaders organized a meet and greet with Ambassador Shankar at the Spring Hill Suites Marriott in Ballantyne. She shook hands with everyone in attendance and then spoke eloquently about India’s rise and current economic standing as the second fastest growing economy in the world. She fielded several questions from the attendees after her speech. The questions ranged from the hassles of going through customs when arriving in India, to the corruption that’s pervasive in Indian society, and finally about planting trees in order to increase India’s forest cover. Ambassador Shankar was born on October 9, 1950. She joined the Indian Foreign Service in July 1973. She has held several important assignments during her career: she served as Director in the Prime Minister’s Office from 1985 to 1991; was posted to Washington DC and served as Minister (Commerce) from 1991 to 1995. Thereafter, she headed the Indian Council of Cultural Relations in New Delhi overseeing India’s cultural diplomacy. Subsequently, in the Ministry of External Affairs, she headed two important divisions dealing with the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and relations with Nepal and Bhutan. After promotion to the rank of Additional Secretary in 2002, she held the responsibility for the United Nations and International Security. Her last assignment was as Ambassador of India to Germany from December 1, 2005 to April 6, 2009. She arrived in Washington DC on April 26, 2009. Devi Saraswati Puja, Balvihar , Spartanburg, SC The Balvihar students of Hindu Society of Greater Spartanburg performed Devi Saraswati Puja on January 16, 2010 under the guidance of Pujari Shri Siddharthabhai Shukla. Thirty one students, from the ages of 6 to 18, participated in the program. This is the second year that this type of puja has been performed. As the puja progressed, Shukla explained the significance and meaning of each ritual. Students listened and chanted eagerly. At the end of puja, students joined in a two-minute silence to pray for victims of Haiti and decided to collect donation towards this cause. Event ended with Mahaprasad. Balvihar teachers, volunteers and parents arranged for everything.
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Memorable Geet and Ghazal Concerts with Naila Mughal By Girish J Modi and Manzoor Cheema Naila Mughal may not be as popular as Ghulam Ali, Jagjit Singh, Pankaj Udhas or Munni Begum in the United States, but in Pakistan she is a rising star and gaining popularity as a new voice in ghazal, geet and sufi songs. As part of New Year geet and ghazal concert tour, Mughal recently enthralled hundreds of devoted fans of ghazal and geet in Potomac, MD; Durham, NC; and Atlanta, GA. Naila Mughal started singing from an early age when she competed and won many musical performances at her school and college. She was trained first by Ustaad Wajid Ali Khan Sahib and later on by A. B. Kabeer. She started her professional career in 2004 and started singing for the TV. She performed for live TV shows, as playback singer for TV dramas and films. She is a very talented and versatile artist who can sing Hindi and Urdu ghazals, geet, pop songs, folk songs and bhangra-style songs. She has traveled all over the US, Europe, and different countries of Asia for her music tours. Concert promot-
er Manzoor Cheema of CheemaCommunications.com promoted her concerts. The concert in Atlanta was organized by Mustafa Ajmeri who has been active in the South Asian media and event organizing scene for the last 30 years. While the Southeast U.S. was gripped in a record cold weather, the audience of Mughal’s concerts was sufficiently warmed up after listening to her captivating voice. They kept making requests for more songs, which Naila generously acceded to without showing a hint of fatigue or losing her voice. During her concerts she sang famous poems and ghazals including Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s iconic “Mujh se pahli si mohhabat mere mehboob na mang,” which was also sung by the late Madam Noorjahan; “Ulfat ki Nayi manzil” sung previously by Iqbal Bano; popular song “ghoongru tut gaye” sung previously by Runa Laila; and the concluding sufi song (dhamal) “Damadam Mast Kalandar.” She captured the hearts of audience when she sang “Yeh jo halka halka surur hai,” a qawwali sung by the legendary Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan; “Chhap tilak” written by the thirteenth century poet and music composer Hazrat Amir Khusroo; Lambi Judai sung previously by Reshma and “Honton se chhulo” sung by Jagjit Singh. She also sang famous songs from Indian films Umrao Jaan and Pakeezah. By the time she sang the customary concluding sufi song (Dhamal) of the night -“Damadam mast kalandar,” the audience was ready to hit the dance floor. The Pakistani tabla player Umaid Hussain and keyboard specialist Saad Ali accompanied her.
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Community News & Events Charlotte Art of Living (Healing with the Breath) Art of Living is dedicated to serving society by strengthening the individual. This is done through self development programs that recharge the body, mind and spirit and allow people to function at their optimum potential. People from all backgrounds, religions and cultural traditions come together in service and celebration. Info: 704.248.2647 charlotte@us.artofliving.org www.artofliving.org BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Regularly scheduled activities include a daily Aarti at 6:30 am and 7 pm. Darshan: Mon-Fri 6:30 am12:30 pm and 4 - 8:30 pm, Sat/Sun 6:30 am-8:30 pm. Gujarati classes are held every Sunday from 3 - 4 pm and “Satsang Sabha” is held every Sunday at 4:30 p.m. The Swaminarayan Temple is located at 4100 Margaret Wallace Road in Charlotte, N.C. Info: 704.573.0805 704.573.0820 (fax) Bhartiya Association of Lake Norman (BALKN) BALKN organizes several community programs every year. For details about the organization and upcoming events visit www.balkn.org Carolina Sanskritk Maharashta Mandal Carolina Sanskritk Maharashtra Mandal promotes Maharashtrian culture and language. Maharashtra mandal is committed to serve Carolina Marathi community with various cultural, social and traditional marathi programs and events. Info: Medha Tannu, mantannu@yahoo.com, 704.548.1570 Abhay Khanore, terasahara2000@yahoo.com, 803.554.1234 Pandurang Naik, psnaik@yahoo.com, 704.904.3636 Carolinas Christian Assembly - Charlotte Everyone is cordially invited to join for Sunday worship - 9:30 to 10:30 English, 10:45 am-12:00 February 2010
Malayalam. Address: 3046 Senna Drive, Matthews, N.C 28105 Prayer and Spiritual guidance: 704.323.5834 803.322.9549 704.756.4969 CCAprayerline@gmail.com Charlotte Gita Study Group Info: Rajesh Venky and Savitha Mathur, 704.845.0464, rvenky@aol.com Shridhar and Kruti Dave, 704.844.9567, skdave@hotmail.com Charlotte Kannada Koota The Charlotte Kannada Koota is an organization that promotes understanding of Karnataka culture and provides a medium for people of Karnataka (Kannadigas) to get together. The activities include l get-togethers, music, and drama. Info: 704.526.9990 (Appan Patil), agm_patil@hotmail.com 704.281.8732 (Raj Kulgod), kraj7@yahoo.com Charlotte Table-Tennis Club Charlotte Table-tennis Club is located at 345 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte, NC 28204 (Corner of East 7th St. & Hawthorne Lane). Hours: Tues & Thursday 6-10 pm, Saturday 2-6 pm Sunday 1-5 pm. Info: www.charlottetabletennis.org Charlotte Vipassana Meditation Group Vipassana, which means to see things as they really are, is one of India’s most ancient techniques of meditation. It was taught in India more than 2500 years ago as a universal remedy for universal ills. The Charlotte Vipassana Meditation Group holds weekly group sits and monthly all day sits for established students (those who have taken at least one ten day course from S. N. Goenka or one of his assistant teachers). Ten-day courses are also available for all students. There is never a charge for a course. New center now open in Jesup, GA. To apply for a 10 day retreat visit www.patapa.dhamma.org Info: 704.277.5013, rbddesai@gmail.com 704.563.5440, dspranger@gmail.com WWW.DHAMMA.ORG Saathee 90
Classical Music Association of Charlotte (CMAC) CMAC sponsors many classical concerts during the year in Charlotte. Membership forms are available at concerts. Sun Apr 18 @ 3:00 p.m. - Flute Concert by Dr. N. Ramani, accompanied by Nagai Muralidharan on Violin and Neyveli Narayan on Mridangam. Venue: Central Piedmont Community College, Tate Hall Info: 704.541.3361 (Rama Rachakonda), 704.814.9355 (Lakshmi Muthukrishnan), lakshmi7778@yahoo.com cmacmusic@yahoo.com www.onlinecmac.com Dada Bhagwan Group Satsang is conducted every Sunday at 7 pm at the Hindu Center in Charlotte and there is also a Satsang every Thursday. In addition, watch Satsang from Friday to Tuesday at 7 am on TV Asia. The present topics are “Pati-Patni ka Divya Vyahvar” and “Chovis Tirthankar.” The group has recently opened a library for spiritual books, audios and videos. Info: 704.287.3133 www.dadabhagwan.org Datta Yoga Center - Charlotte The group is dedicated to the service of SadGuru Sri Sri Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda Swamiji through SadGuru Seva, yoga and satsang (singing the glory of god). Regular Activities: Satsang every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month, from 4 - 7pm. Bhajans composed by Sri Sri Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda Swamiji are chanted and occasionally video programs produced by Avadhoota Datta Peetham are viewed. Including Sri Swamiji’s visit to Manasa Sarovaram, Music for Meditation and healing concerts and lectures. Info: 704.839.3256 (Ravi Anupindi) www.dattapeetham.com www.dycusa.org Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of India (EVFI) was established to help in the overall development of the remote tribal and rural villages in India. Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of saathee.com
Delta Sigma Iota Fraternity, Inc. and Sikh Student Association at NCSU are proud to present Virsa Punjab Da 2010!!! VPD is an annual, nationally recognized Bhangra competition featuring 8 Bhangra teams from across the nation. The competition will be held at the Carolina Theatre in Durham, NC on February 27th, 2010. For more information and to purchase tickets visit our website at www.vpdncsu.com
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Community News & Events USA along with EVFI is committed to the cause of eradicating illiteracy from tribal areas. Education is the key to self-esteem, self-sustenance, economic well being and happiness. Ekal Vidyalya (One School One Teacher in one village) plans to establish 100,000 schools in tribal areas by 2012. This will cover all the villages in tribal areas where there are no schools today. The Carolinas Region of the EVFUSA conducts fund raising and awareness programs in North and South Carolina. Look out for Ekal events in the coming months. Parents, here is an opportunity for school age children to have some fun and put their creativity to work with an Art & Essay competition in March 2010. Ekal Charlotte is also planning a tennis tournament in April 2010 for ages 8-88 years. For registration and information send an email to the address below. Info: ekal.charlotte@gmail.com www.ekalvidya.org Hindu Center of Charlotte The center is located at 7400 City View Drive, Charlotte, NC 28212. Info: 704.535.3440. The library is stocked with books, CDs, DVDs and other materials on varied genre such as religion, culture, history, philosophy, yoga and health. Library info: 704.554.0765. Children’s Religious Oriented Program (C.R.O.P.) is for children Kindergarten through 12th grade to educate them in culture and understand religious practices. A glimpse on understanding The Bhagvad Gita provides children with an opportunity to learn about the GITA with simplicity, ease and in an inclusive discussion format. Info on CROP 704.547.1676 (Chetna Patel) patel4260@bellsouth.net. The Senior Citizens Group meets on the 1st Sunday of every month at 4 pm and followed by Satyanarayan Katha at 5 pm. Future trips and activities are in the planning stages. Info on the group: 704.334.2462 (Gobind Bhojwani). The sloka class teaches children between the ages of 4 and 13 different Hindu hymns, their meaning and significance. The class meets Sundays at 9:30 am. Info on the class: 704.814.9355 (Lakshmi Muthukrishnan). Info on the Social Welfare Committee: 704.372.1265 (Narain Amar) or February 2010
704.948.5609 (Dhinakaran Pillai). The Vedic Havan is held at the vedant hall on second Sunday of every month at 10:30 am to 12:00 pm noon followed by Prasadam. Info: 704.825.9223 (Swadesh Sawhney). The Pranayam classes are held Saturdays from 9:30 - 11 am in the Vivek Hall. Info: 704.649.5374 (Kajal Jain), 704.554.0765 (Manisha Naik), or 281.304.5597 (Sanjay Vyas) pranayamclt@aol.com. Yoga classes are held Sundays at 9 am. Info: 704.864.8212 pradip_bulsara@hotmail.com. Upcoming Events: Fri Feb 12 6:00 pm through Sat Feb 13 6:00 am: Maha Shivratri Celebration www.hcclt.org Indian Performing Arts Association of Charlotte (IPAAC) IPAAC promotes and showcases classical Hindustani music by inviting well-known artists from India. Upcoming Events: Fri Apr 23, 2010 (8 pm) - Sitar player Pt. Kushal Das accompanied by Kumar Bose on Tabla. Venue: Tate Recital Hall, CPCC Central Campus. Sat May 22, 2010 (6 pm) - Vocal Recital by Dr. Ashwini Bhide Deshpande. Venue: Tate Recital Hall, CPCC Central Campus. Info: Sarla Kumar 704.846.4423 Chaula Jain 704.364.0984 contact@ipaac.org www.ipaac.org Indian Visual Artists Association of Charlotte (IVAAC) IVAAC was founded by artists of Indian origin living in the Charlotte, NC area in their pursuit of a creative outlet, stemming from an urge to express the flow of their innate artistic moods and ideas. The vision is to promote the enigmatic and intriguing Indian culture into meaningful forms of expression that exposes the rich traditions and diversity of one of the most ancient civilizations on earth, in today’s fast blending global culture and to create an organization that provides planning and funding required to ensure and support a vibrant and culturally diverse Indian art community. Info: 704.540.8799 (Amit Shah), 704.688.5387 (Kinshuk Agarwal) www.ivaac.org Saathee 92
Kiran KIRAN is a multi-cultural, non-religious, community based, South Asian organization. Promoting the self-reliance and empowerment of South Asian women who are in crisis through outreach, peer support, and referrals in a confidential manner. The group spreads awareness of South Asian women’s issues in the community and we cooperate and collaborate with organizations in the USA and elsewhere with similar objectives. Countries in South Asia include Bangladesh, Bhutan, Burma, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Though there are differences in language, customs, and religions across these countries, these regions share many basic cultural and historical similarities. KIRAN operates a crisis phone line Monday- Friday from 9:00 am – 9:00 pm. For help or information regarding domestic violence call an advocate. Services offered are confidential and free of charge: • Information in a culture- and context-sensitive manner • Non-judgmental help and support to women who are experiencing oppressive/crisis situations • Emotional support • Referrals to professional and community services regarding legal issues, health care, short-term child care, psychological counseling, and temporary shelter and housing • KIRAN’s services are completely confidential. Translators and crisis counselors do not disclose any information provided by our clients. Info: Crisis Hotline: 1877-NC-KIRAN or 1-877-625-4726 Kiran@Kiraninc.org www.kiraninc.org MaGaReSa Club The MaGaReSa Club is a music outlet for SouthEast Asians who want to develop their musical abilities through regular Bollywood music sessions. Info: www.yahoogroups.com/group/mag aresa-indianmusic or http://magaresa.ning.com or http://www.meetup.com/Bollywood -Music-Meetup-Group/ saathee.com
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Community News & Events Net IP Charlotte NetIP Charlotte is the only official Carolinas chapter of North America’s Largest Network of Indian Professionals. NetIP Charlotte provides a forum for ongoing Career Developmental and Professional Networking activities. It arranges various events and maintains deeper ties with Businesses & the community. It provides various effective ways for Carolinas’ Indian Professionals to connect with other successful professionals. Info: www.NetIPNC.org Pratham - Charlotte Area Pratham is India’s largest non-profit organization with grass roots programs in the area of primary education. Pratham has made an impact on the learning levels of several million children through its Read India campaign, which reached 31 million children across India. Pratham has developed an accelerated learning technique which helps children to read & write in two months. With nearly half the children in India who attend schools are not learning to read and write at the required level, Pratham is trying to fill an important gap in the area of primary education. Info: Anju Desai (ajdesai66@gmail.com or 980-622-0125) and Shubhra Chakraborty shubhra.chakraborty1@gmail.com or 704-942-4798). www.prathamusa.org. Probasi of Charlotte Probasi is the Bengali community based in Charlotte and surrounding areas. The community’s goal is to organize cultural and educational program related to Bengal in the Greater Charlotte area, to increase Bengali cultural awareness, and to provide community service in the area. Info: www.probasi.org Sahaj Marg MeditationCharlotte Area Sahaj Marg , which means Simple or Natural path, is a Raj Yoga system of spiritual training based on the heart centered meditation. The unique features of this meditation include transmission of divine energy into the heart of the practitioner and cleaning of deep impressions, February 2010
thereby regulating the mind. Regular practice of this system of meditation integrates the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of human being, while still encouraging people to maintain a normal family and working life. In the Charlotte area, group meditation is held at the Unity of Charlotte on Sundays and Wednesdays. Info: Arun and Promila Sehra 704.844.0147 Srikanth Katakam 704.496.4411 naturalpath.nc@gmail.com www.srcm.org Shri Rang Avadhut Parivar (Parspar Devo Bhav) Soul devotees of Guru Dattatraya Rang Avadhut and Shri Prem Avadhut meet every Thursday evening in Charlotte, NC from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. for recital of “Datta-Bavani”, singing devotional Dattatraya Bhajans and reading “Guru-Lilamrut”. Detailed information about Charlotte meetings, literature, videos, Nareshwar Ashram and Shri Avadhut’s life is available. Info: Bharat Shah - 704.724.6247 Nagesh Patel - 704.399.7805 Sikh Heritage Society The Sikh Heritage Society strives to unite and enrich the lives of the Sikh & Punjabi communities of Charlotte and surrounding areas. “Gurdwara” address: 1760 Stoney Creek Lane, Charlotte, NC 28262. Info: 704.948.7664 (Roshan Attrey), rattrey@aol.com, 704.541.0350 (Sajjan Dhaliwal), sajjan@carolina.rr.com, 704.948.8091 (Inderjeet Rajpal), irajpal@aol.com www.gurdwaracharlotte.com SouthPark Cricket Club South Park Cricket Club is based in Charlotte, North Carolina and it has been an active member of the Mid Atlantic Cricket Conference since 2002. The club’s home ground is at the Reedy Creek Park, 2900 Rocky River Rd, Charlotte, NC. Info: 847.722.9865 (Baseet Ahmed), baseer_11@yahoo.com www.southparkcc.org Steele Creek Cricket Club Cricket is played every Sunday morning at the Steele Creek Athletic Association complex at Saathee 94
13530 Choate Circle, (weather permitting) from 8:00 am to 11:00 am. This group is dedicated to playing cricket with a hard tennis ball and/or soft baseball (also known as T-Ball) for fun in the Steele Creek Area of Charlotte. If you would like to stay informed about this club or would like to play or watch cricket, feel free to join and share your ideas. For information on current hours of play, location, and contacts. Info: www.geocities.com/steelecreekcricketclub Tamil Catholics of Charlotte Tamil Catholics living in the Charlotte-Greensboro area interested in attending monthly mass in Tamil contact pravben@gmail.com. United Cricket Club Forming a team this March of experienced as well as beginners that love cricket. Team will play in the Atlantic League. Practice is every Sunday at Reedy Creek Park (11 am to 4 pm). Sunday and Monday evenings for ages 15 and up. Join the fun. Info: 704.905.9127 (Captain-Syed) 704.493.7629 (Vice CaptainMohsan)
Greensboro Greensboro Cricket Club (GCC) Good news for cricket lovers! There are several teams that play cricket in Greensboro. The goals of GCC are fun, fitness, and friendship. For info on play and location contact below players. Info: 336.501.3566 (9:00 am 9:00 pm, S&S) Dev, Greensboro Warriors, happy4mehta@yahoo.com; Venky, Triad Tigers, venkyhot@hotmail.com. Gujarati Cultural Association of Piedmont (GCAP) The Gujarati Cultural Association of Piedmont serves the Asian Indian community through sponsored events, cultural, educational and social programs. GCAP, 127 Landmark Drive, Greensboro, NC 27410 Info: 336.420.7290 336.327.1235 www.gujaratisamajoftriad.org
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Community News & Events Hindu Society of North Carolina at Greensboro The HSNC at Greensboro is located at 2424 Huffine Mill Road. Its mission is to serve the Hindu Community and promote Hindu Culture through religious, social and educational activities. Regularly events include Puja, bhajans, children’s programs, celebration of holidays & community service. Info: 336.621.5848 www.hsnc-triad.org
Sri Sathya Sai Baba Center of Greensboro, NC The Center organizing regular Sai Bhajans, Study Circle , Balvikas class for students and Service Activities. All devotees are welcome 1st Sunday of the Month 4 – 6 PM, all other Sundays 10 AM – 12:15 612.239.7529 (Deepak Deshpande at Winston Salem) 908.875.6964 (Swami Rajendran at Greensboro)
India Association of the Triad The objective of the Association is to promote social, cultural and educational interests of its members, develop understanding between members of the Indian community and other residents of the Triad, and make the latter aware of issues of concern to the Indian community. Hindi classes are being taught by Mrs. Punjabi. 336.656.0203 (Dhananjay Kumar) www.iatnc.org
Triad Hindu Temple Many who attended the Pratistha Mahotsav filled a survey indicating interest in various programs such as recitals (Soundarya Lahari, Vishnu/Lalitha Sahasranamam, Gita Path,) Bhajans, Balvihar/Teen programs, Yoga, etc. Whoever is interested to lead such events, email communityevent@triadhindutemple.org with details such as event info, contact name/email/phone, day and time you would like to schedule the event. One of the committee members will contact you to confirm or provide alternate options in case of conflicts. Balvihar has been ongoing for over a year now, and if your child is interested visit the website www.triadhindutemple.org and click on Balvihar to get details. If interested in a Veda Class, email Mini Ranganathan at minisantu@yahoo.com
Indo-US Cultural Association of Winston-Salem The Indo-US Cultural Association’s primary mission is to increase awareness of the cultural heritage of India which is tremendously rich in its diversity and history. We seek to reach out to the thriving IndianAmerican community within the Piedmont and Triad areas to share the vibrant Indian culture and promote cross-cultural understanding. Info: Madan Rangabasyam Phone : 336-760-5885 Life Bliss Foundation The NC Chapter, offers workshops, books, CD’s, and DVD’s on spirituality and enlightenment from living enlightened master Paramahamsa Nithyananda. 500 videos are available on www.youtube.com. Satsangs in the Greensboro/ Winston-Salem area include Life Bliss Meditation, video discourse, Q&A, and Nithya Spiritual Healing Prayer, a method of energy healing. Satsang Locations: Weekly Wednesdays, 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm, Integrative Therapies, 7-E Oak Branch Drive, Greensboro NC 27407. Weekly - Fridays, 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm, 1143 Sequoia Drive, Lewisville, NC 27023. Meditation workshops are taught on a regular basis. Info: 336.644.1111 www.lifebliss.org February 2010
Raleigh Academic Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (AFICE) Interested in exploring the diverse cultures of the world? Become a host family for a high school exchange student! All the students will come from various countries around the world, and all students speak fluent English. They are of high school age (15-18) and will attend local high school. Each student will live as member of their American host family, sharing household duties and responsibilities. AFICE is a non-profit educational organization dedicated to bringing cultural gaps by allowing foreign students the opportunity to live as part of an American community. www.afice.org Info: lathapamarthi@earthlink.net Saathee 96
Association for India’s Development (AID)- Duke University Chapter AID’s mission is effect social change in India, by supporting projects with grassroots non-governmental organization in India in the areas of literacy, health care, rural credit, women’s empowerment etc. Info: www.duke.edu/web/aid/ Atlantic Coast Sikh Association This is one of the oldest Sikh associations in the Southeastern USA. It meets every Sunday from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM at its gurdwara, located at 3108 Sparger Road, Durham, NC 27705. Kirtan is done by Bhai Dyal Singh Jatha. Classes for Punjabi and religious studies are held for children at the same time. Info: 919.309.1045 - Bhai Dyal Singh www.acsagurdwara.org Balagokulam Gokulam is where Lord Krishna’s magical childhood days were spent. It was here that his divine powers came to light. Every child has that spark of divinity within. Balagokulam is a forum for children (4-15 years age) to discover and manifest that divinity. It will enable Hindu children in the US to appreciate their cultural roots and learn values. This is done through games, yoga, stories, songs, shlokas, arts/crafts, and Seva (selfless service) in the community. Balagokulam sessions are free for all and are held on Saturdays. Info: balagokulam.rtp@gmail.com hss.charlotte@hssus.org (Charlotte region) www.balagokulam.org BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir BAPS Shree Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir invites everyone to the regularly scheduled events: Ravi sabha - every Sunday at 4 - 6 pm followed by Aarti and Maha Prasad. Mahapuja – every Purnima at 7 pm. Many classes are conducted. Fresh Indian snacks and sweets available at Shayona. 1020 Aviation Parkway, Morrisville, NC 27560. Info: 919.469.6605 www.swaminarayan.org
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Community News & Events Bengali Association of North Carolina (BANC) BANC seeks to promote Bengali culture, language, music, arts and social activities by offering varieties of programs for members of INDOAmerican community within North Carolina and adjacent states. The association is organized exclusively for charitable, cultural, social and educational purposes. Info: 919.461.2386 (Ratan Ray), ratanray@hotmail.com 919.510.7943 (Swaty Sen), swaty_sen@yahoo.com banc_members@googlegroups.com www.banc-online.org Bharatiya Senior Citizens of North Carolina (BSCNC) BSCNC is a nonprofit organization for Senior Citizens of Indian origin that are age 60 years and over and the members of the organization meet on the second Saturday of each month. At the gathering on Sat Feb 13, the seniors will celebrate Valentine’s Day and Shivratri. Info: Bharatiben Patel 252.236.4391 or Harishbhai Shah 919.387.1629. General BSCNC Info: Pramila Domadia at 919.387.9171 Bhartiben Patel at 252.236.4391 Child Relief and You (CRY) An organization in the Raleigh area working with the India-based charitable non-profit organization committed to encouraging and facilitating individuals and organizations to make a positive impact in the lives of underprivileged children since 1979. CRY America’s RDU Action Center has been active since 2001. CRY-RDU invites people to join the enthusiastic volunteer base to contribute ideas or any relevant skills. Info: 919.362.9591 (Sarav Arunachalam) rdu@cryamerica.org www.cryrdu.org Chinmaya Mission Chinmaya Mission Raleigh-Durham conducts Balavihar classes for children and youth (preschool to 12th grade) regularly every Sunday from 10 am to 11:30 am at Reedy Creek Middle School, Cary. In addition to classes that are tailored to each age group, lessons include chanting of Bhagavad Gita verses, and singing February 2010
bhajans. With the theme of Krishna – My Friend, all students this year are learning about Bhakti or devotion to God. All festivals are celebrated along with Prasad for families. Parents wishing to enroll their children in Balavihar can download registration form from www.chinmaya-rdu.org A regular adult study group/satsang is conducted for adults on Sunday mornings at Reedy Creek Middle School, as well as, other locations in the Triangle. Info: www.chinmaya-rdu.org cmrdu.balavihar@gmail.com Datta Yoga Center - Raleigh Mission: Spread the teachings of Sadguru Sri Sri Sri Ganapathi Sachchidananda Swamiji of Mysore. Activities: Namasankeertana Bhajans written, composed and sung by Pujya Sri Swamiji. Future projects: Kriya yoga classes by Pujya Sri Swamiji-trained teachers from India. The group meets on the first Saturday of every month and every major festival day for Satsang and Namasankeertana (divine singing). Everyone is invited to attend the satsang with family and friends and receive divine blessings. Info: 919.484.1993 (Srinivas Chittineni) 919.461.0843 (Suresh Kota) YahooGroups: Dattasatsang_NC. Duke Diya Duke Diya is a Duke University student organization that is committed to providing a forum for interaction through political, cultural, community service, and social events relating to South Asian Americans. Info: 732.865.3173 www.dukediya.com Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of India (EVFI) was established to help in the overall development of the remote tribal and rural villages in India. Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of USA along with EVFI is committed to the cause of eradicating illiteracy from tribal areas. Education is the key to self-esteem, self-sustenance, economic well being and happiness. Ekal Vidyalya (One School One Teacher in one village) plans to establish 100,000 schools in tribal areas by 2012.This will cover all the villages in tribal areas Saathee 98
where there are no schools today. The Carolinas Region of the EVFUSA conducts fund raising and awareness programs in North and South Carolina. Seeking volunteers. Info: 919.803.0478 (Hari H. Nath) hnath45@yahoo.com www.ekalvidya.org Geet Bazaar Radio Program Every Sunday morning from 10 am - 12 noon on WKNC 88.1 FM, join hosts Afroz Taj and John Caldwell, for a wide variety of music from India, Pakistan, and other countries and languages of South Asia. Geet Bazaar will also publicize community events free of charge. Info: 919.851.1119 (Dr. Afroj Taj) taj@unity.ncsu.edu GEM - Raleigh Church of God Attend worship services, prayer meetings or Sunday School. Info: 919.395.6208 (Pastor Thankachan M.) globalem@gmail.com Heritage India Association of North Carolina (HIANC) Heritage India Association of North Carolina aims at providing Indian cultural experience through performing arts, fine arts, cultural arts & crafts of India. Its mission is “to preserve and promote Indian heritage and culture.” Info: Yash Garg at 919-870-5222 Harsha Shah at 919-362-0520 chander@bellsouth.net Hindi Vikas Mandal of NC Hindi Vikas Mandal (HVM), based in the RTP area, promotes study and appreciation of Hindi language and strives to foster Indian culture and traditions through Hindi. HVM has a special focus on the youths for the preservation of Indian Culture and heritage. Info: Saroj Sharma 919.851.0225 V.P. Tiwari 919.423.0365 Hindu Society of North Carolina - Morrisville, NC The Hindu Society of North Carolina, located at 309 Aviation Parkway, Morrisville, N.C. serves the Indian community in the Triangle area and its vicinity. Temple timings are: Mon. - Fri. 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Sat. - Sun. 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Daily Aarti and Puja is saathee.com
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Community News & Events also conducted by the Priest. Other regular religious and cultural programs: Monthly Vedic Havan, Tuesday Hauman Chalisa recitation, Sri Ramakrishna Study Group, Sri Sai Baba Group, Gita Study Group, Devi Puja, Vaishnav Bhajan Group, Akhand Ramayana Recitation, Weeklend Language and Spiritual Knowledge Classes, and Sloka classes for Children. Yoga classes are also offered twice a week (Sunday at 8:00 a.m.and Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.) at the Cultural Hall. Priest services are available at your home and/or at the Temple at a nominal charge. Upcoming Events: Sat Feb 12 - Mahashivratri Celebrations. Sun Feb 28 & Mon Mar 1 - Holi Info: hsnc@hsncweb.org www.hsncweb.org Hindu Students Council (HSC) NC State University HSC-NCSU is a chapter of the national organization Hindu Students Council (HSC). HSC-NCSU is a cultural and religious student organization. It aims to provide opportunities to learn about Hindu philosophy, spirituality and cultural heritage through various activities, events and projects and is dedicated to provide “seva” (service) to the community. 919.676.0298 (Mrinmoyee Sanyal) msanyal@ncsu.edu www.hsc-ncsu.org Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) conducts weekly activities to develop character and leadership skills in participants, emphasizing values such as self-discipline, self-confidence and a spirit of selfless service (seva) for humanity while maintaining Hindu cultural identity in harmony with the larger society. HSS is inspired by the idea that the whole world is one family. HSS started in 1989 in the United States and currently has over 100 chapters (shakhas) across the country. The Research Triangle Park chapter meets every Saturday. Activities are tailored to include yoga, games, songs, lectures and discussions on Hindu dharma and culture. hss.rtp@hssus.org - Triangle area hss.charlotte@hssus.org - Charlotte February 2010
Hum Sub Hum Sub is dedicated to sharing the social and cultural traditions of India with the residents of the Research Triangle Park and North Carolina. Info: 919.468.3332 (Mamta Bisarya) 919.363.7339 (Latha Pamarthi) info@humsub.net www.humsub.net Indian American Forum for Political Education (IAFPE) IAFPE, known as the FORUM, is the oldest and largest Indian American organization for political education in the country. This is a non-profit organization with numerous chapters throughout the United States. The North Carolina Chapter is in Raleigh and has just established a new committee for a 2-year term. We are excited and motivated to educate the community on political issues and help the community with various services. Support is needed from the community and members to help us grow and provide relevant services and informative events. Info: Nilesh - 919.656.4361 www.forum-nc.org Indian Classical Music & Dance Society (ICMDS) ICMDS is dedicated to the task of promoting Indian classical music and dance in the Triangle area. ICMDS invites the top artists from all over the world to perform in the Triangle area. Info: www.icmds.org Indo-American Friendship Foundation Did you know that about 90 percent of rural orphans are female and most of them are abandoned at birth due to their gender. Not one of them gets the opportunity to become a doctor, engineer, or even receive basic education. Because they cannot live in the orphanage when they turn 18, many of them fall vicitim to different types of exploitation, including sex trade. IAFF has created an orphanage education fund to help qualified orphans to rise as high as they can climb in the educational/professional ladder. Info: 919.362.7653 (Dr. Subhas C. Mohapatra) www.iaff1.org Saathee 100
Indus Foundation Indus Foundation was founded in NC by a group of professionals with the sole purpose of giving back to the community and the country that has helped members achieve success. Every dollar is wisely spent back into the community without any overheads. Current major projects: Indian Cancer Society rehabilitation Center in Mumbai, Mental Healthcare Center for socially rejected Women in Indore, and three Educational Centers in Gurgaon. Adopt an on-going project or launch an new project under specific guidelines. Make a commitment to build a better tommorrow. Info:919.461.0001 (Dr. Vinnie Goel, Chairman) 919.467.0598 (Dr. Shri Kulkarni, President) 919.319.7294 (Dr. Vijaya Bapat, Vice-President) www.indusfoundation.info International Community Church CC is a worship center for people from India and neighboring countries. The pastor is Joseph B. Jesudason and the church office: 1215 Franklin Jones Road, Suite #204, Raleigh, NC 27606. Info: 919.233.2900 w w w. i n t e r n a t i o n a l c o m m u n i t y church.org International Hindi Association International Hindi Association (IHA) promotes Hindi language and literature and has chapters all over the United States. The Raleigh Chapter periodically organizes Kavi Sammelans with local and indigenous talents. Open to those interested in listening to poetry or in reciting poetry. Info: www.hindi.org 919.851.0225 (Sarojben Sharma) 919.362.5244 (Sudha Dhingra) International Swaminarayan Satsang Organization (ISSO) Primary objective of ISSO is “To advance the Sanatan Dharma in accordance with the principles and teachings of Shree Swaminarayan Sampradaya, founded and ordained by Lord Shree Swaminarayan (Shree Sahajanand Swami),” enabling His devotees from both the Nar Narayan Dev Gadi (continue) saathee.com
Community News & Events (Ahmedabad) and Laxmi Narayan Dev Gadi (Vadtal) to practice their religious duties in harmony. The Raleigh-Durham chapter organizes a “Satsang Sabha” every two weeks, typically on Friday or Saturday evenings, which includes Kirtan bhakti, Katha, Aarti and Mahaprasad. Info: 919.363.2356 (Niraj Joshi) niraj_joshi@yahoo.com www.swaminarayan.info ISKCON of North Carolina The Sri-Sri Radha Golokananda Temple - Iskcon of NC is situated on 16 acres of field and forest with the historic Eno River flowing behind the temple property. The temple is just a few miles off of Routes I-40 & I-85 and located at 1032 Dimmocks Mill Road, Hillsborough, NC 27278. Daily aarti- 4:30 am, 7:15 am, 12:30 pm, 4:15 pm, 7 pm. Darsana: Monday through Friday 7:30-11:30 am and 4:155:45 pm, Saturday all day until 5:45 pm, Sunday all day until 7:30 pm. Sunday Festival begins at 4:00 p.m. and it includes kirtan, aarti, Bhagavad Gita discourse, vegetarian feast, and Sunday school for children. Info: 919.593.6827, golokanandapriya@hotmail.com Yoga classes - Krishna Priya at krsnapriyahg@yahoo.com Kiran KIRAN is a multi-cultural, non-religious, community based, South Asian organization. Promoting the self-reliance and empowerment of South Asian women who are in crisis through outreach, peer support, and referrals in a confidential manner. The group spreads awareness of South Asian women’s issues in the community and we cooperate and collaborate with organizations in the USA and elsewhere with similar objectives. Countries in South Asia include Bangladesh, Bhutan, Burma, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Though there are differences in language, customs, and religions across these countries, these regions share many basic cultural and historical similarities. KIRAN operates a crisis phone line Monday- Friday from 9:00 am – 9:00 pm. For help or February 2010
information regarding domestic violence call an advocate. Services offered are confidential and free of charge: • Information in a culture- and context-sensitive manner • Non-judgmental help and support to women who are experiencing oppressive/crisis situations • Emotional support • Referrals to professional and community services regarding legal issues, health care, short-term child care, psychological counseling, and temporary shelter and housing • KIRAN’s services are completely confidential. Translators and crisis counselors do not disclose any information provided by our clients. Crisis Hotline: 1877- NC-KIRAN or 1-877-625-4726 Kiran@Kiraninc.org www.kiraninc.org Nuv Yug Nuv Yug is a cultural organization with a mission to promote awareness of Indian cultural arts and heritage. Striving to create synergy among various cultural groups from the South Asian region. Nuv Yug’s online system for India Fest 2010 is open now. Visit the website and review various guidelines. Once you have registered a userid, you will be provided your very own dashboard to keep track of your activities on the website. India Fest 2010 Auditions - Sat. Feb. 13, 2010 at the Holshouser Building, State Fairgrounds, Raleigh. India Fest 2010 Main Event - Sat.Sun., March 20-21, 2010, Dorton Arena, State Fairgrounds, Raleigh. Info: info@nuvyug.org www.nuvyug.org Pakistani American Association The Pakistani-American Association (NCPAA) is a non-political, non-sectarian, cultural and social organization that promotes Pakistani culture to all the communities living in the Triangle Area of North Carolina. Several events are presented during the year. A family dinner is held on the second Friday of every month. Info: payamber@ncpaa.org www.ncpaa.org Saathee 102
Pratham - Triangle Area Founded as a UNICEF initiative, Pratham is a grass-roots organization that works towards universalizing primary education in India. With a goal of reaching 20 million children, Pratham is one of the largest NGOs in field of literacy movement in India. Pratham continues to evolve, grow and works to meet the continually changing needs of the children it educates. Pratham’s North Carolina chapter actively aims to collaborate with individuals, local organizations and community associations and seeks ideas, volunteers and resources to deliver the vision of “Every Child in School and Learning Well.” Info: www.prathamnc.org Professional Indians’ Association (PIA) PIA is a meetup that serves young South Asian professionals in the Triangle Community. The group is made of Indian professionals and grad students interested in cultural events, socializing and meeting/making friends with likeminded people around the Triangle. Monthly events include meeting at bars/restaurants, Bollywood movie nights, potlucks, Indian concerts/performances, outdoor activities, community service and volunteering. This will also be an opportunity for professionals to share their thoughts on respective industries, social causes, the economy and politics. Info: www.meetup.com/PIATriangle/ Ramakrishna Vedanta Society of North Carolina The Ramakrishna Vedanta Society of NC draws inspiration from the timeless, philosophical wisdom of the Vedanta as practiced and preached in the modern day by Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda. Perhaps you know a great deal about Practical Vedanta and the message of the harmony of religions and the spiritual oneness of Existence - or perhaps you are just curious and want to learn more. Regardless of background and/or knowledge the organization welcomes participants. Info: www.vedantanc.org
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TRIANGLE PHYSICIANS P.C. www.trianglephysicians.org
Office of Dr. Rupa Varadarajan, M. D. Board Certified in Internal Medicine
305 A South Academy St. Cary, NC 27511 (919) 467 7528 February 2010
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Community News & Events RTP Maharashtra Mandal RTP Maharashtra Mandal promotes Maharashtrian culture and language. Maharashtra mandal is committed to serve RTP community with various cultural, social and traditional marathi programs and events. Info: 919.468.8824 (Jayant Yete) 919.757.7300 (Neeraj Shikarkhane) www.rtpmm.org S. V. Temple of North Carolina S.V. Temple of North Carolina is built on over nine acres of centrally connected triangle area. This grand tribute to Lord Venkateswara and his consorts is designed to exacting standards of shilpa shasthra and features the only shrine in North America to incorporate abodes to Lord Viswaksena and Lord Sudarshana/Lord Narasimha as part of Srinivasa Parivaram. The temple rituals are performed in accordance with Pancharathra Agama Shastra. Info: 919.468.0040 comm@svtemplenc.org www.svtemplenc.org Sahaj Marg Meditation Triangle Area Sahaj Marg translates to “The Natural Path.” It is a natural, simple system of Raja Yoga meditation and spiritual practice that helps one realize the ultimate potential within oneself. Regular spiritual practice under capable guidance enables aspirants to progressively experience the sublime presence of the divine in their daily lives. Sahaj Marg system of meditation is freely offered to seekers worldwide through Shri Ram Chandra Mission. In Triangle area, group meditations are held on Sun and Wednesdays. Info: (919) 303-7447 (Raj Solanki) (919) 493-6180 (Devi Sekar) raleigh.center@gmail.com> www.srcm.org, www.sahajmarg.org SAMPIGE Triangle Kannada Association The Triangle Kannada Association is a cultural association for people residing in the Triangle area from Karnataka, India. Sampige organizes Kannada (the language spoken in the Karnataka area) activities in music, dance and drama as well as social activities. Info: sampigeeditor@yahoo.com www.sampige.org February 2010
Share and Care Foundation (SCF) Share and Care Foundation (SCF), a charitable organization focused on several projects in India and the USA, is launching a new chapter for the Carolinas - this represents the first chapter outside the New Jersey headquarters of SCF. SCF has been working with the Triangle’s Indian community for more than 15 years. Info: 919.425.5299 (Manu Patel) 919.469.1258 (Rajeev Kamath) www.shareandcare.org Sikh Gurdwara of North Carolina The Sikh Gurudwara of North Carolina welcomes visitors of all backgrounds regardless of race, religion, ethnicity or gender. All peoples, regardless of their origin or orientation, are welcome to attend our services and share in the blessings of God. Religious services are held every Saturday evening and Sunday morning, followed by a community meal (langar). In addition to religious services, we offer educational programs for children and young adults. Adults participate in religious discourse during monthly study circles. Members of the Sangat (congregation) regularly participate in community service projects in the Triangle area. The Sikh Gurdwara at North Carolina is located at 3214 Banner Street in Durham, NC 27704. Info: 919.220.9917 www.sgncweb.org South Indian Fine Arts Academy (SIFAA) SIFAA is a non-profit organization that works to arrange and promote concerts and performances in the Triangle and Triad areas, concentrating on Carnatic music for the present. Info: 919.773.1580 www.sifaa.org St. Gregorios Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church Monthly Mass and regular services are held in Malayalam/English by Rev. Dr. M. K. Thomas at the Baptist Student Center, 2702 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC. Info: 919.461.1773 sec@stgregoriosnc.org www.stgregoriosnc.org Saathee 104
Tamil Cultural Association of North Carolina (TCA NC) TCA NC is a non-profit organization formed for the purpose of providing youths with exposure to Tamil culture. Everyone is invited to join TCA and become part of a wonderful organization promoting Tamil culture in the Triangle area. Info: tca_nc@yahoo.com www.tcanc.org Tamil Sangam of Carolina The Tamil Sangam is an organization that promotes understanding of Tamil culture and provides a medium for people of Tamil culture to get together. The activities include music, drama, lectures, Tamil movies, etc. Info: (919)-465-1606 - Ravi Shanmugam (President) http://members.fortunecity.com/ta milsangamofcarolina Triangle Area Telugu Association (TATA) The Triangle Area Telugu Association (TATA) is a non-profit organization (started in 1983) committed to building a vibrant Telugu Community and promoting Telugu culture and language in the Triangle area of North Carolina. Info: committee@tataonline.org www.tataonline.org Triangle Bangladesh Society (TBSNC) TBSNC strives to arrange musical programs by artists who have captured the hearts and minds of millions of Bengali-, Urdu- and Hindispeaking music fans around the globe. Info: 919.741.9343 (Ishtiaque Mohiuddin) Ishtiaquem@gmail.com www.tbsnc.org Triangle Chapter-India Development & Relief Fund (IDRF) IDRF is a registered, tax-exempt non-profit organization that supports volunteer-based, honest and highly experienced non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in India in serving their populations’ critical needs around education, childcare, healthcare, women empowerment and tribal welfare, as well as relief and rehabilitation in times of natural disasters. Info: www.idrf.org. saathee.com
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Community News & Events Triangle Gujarati Association (TGA) TGA serves the Gujarati community in Raleigh, Cary, Durham, Chapel Hill and the surrounding areas, TGA sponsors musical programs, dramas and other cultural activities to help maintain the Gujarati culture and heritage. Info: Arvind Shah 919.233.7677 Harsha Shah 919.362.0520 Ravi Parikh 919.387.8808 www.nctga.org Triangle Indian Youth Organization (TIYO) This organization has been created with the purpose of encouraging youths of Indian origin aged between 12-18 years to develop skills for leadership, to organize team-oriented efforts, understand and participate in community services, understand and develop individual potential. There will be activities that will fall into the broad categories of education, arts, cultural, charity, religious and community services. Info: 919.363.7339 (Latha Pamarthi [Director of TIYO]) triangleindianyouth@yahoo.com Triangle Rang Mandal Devotees of Pujya Sri Rang Avdhoot Maharaj meet every Saturday in Cary or Raleigh from 8:30 PM 10:30 PM to sing devotional Dattatreya Bhajans and DattaBavani in a spiritual atmosphere. Special programs organised on Guru Purnima and Rang Jayanti and on the occasion of Pujya Sri Prem Avdhoot Bapji’s annual visit to the United States. Info: rangmandal@gmail.com Triangle Vegetarian Society (TVS) The mission of TVS is to build a sense of community between current vegetarians and people who are interested in vegetarianism and have a forum for a discussion of issues. Sat Feb 13 @ 7:00 pm: Joint potluck with Triangle Vegan Action Durham Friends Meetinghouse, 404 February 2010
Alexander Avenue, Durham, NC. Info: Brandon Becker at 608-3947 Sat Mar 27 @ 7:00 pm: Potluck Dinner - Kay and Ryan Bond’s home in Chapel Hill RSVP via email to Kay at bonk0@gmail.com or via phone to Dilip at 943-8784. Info: barman@cs.unc.edu www.trianglevegsociety.org Two Cents of Hope (TCH) Two Cents of Hope was started by a group of Indian students at NC State University with the belief in empowering youth via education. The goal is to uplift the weaker sections of the society through education. The foundation lies in the power of cents giving TCH its name. As J. Carney put it, “Little drops of water, little grains of sand, make the mighty ocean, and the pleasant land.” By using coin boxes to collect loose change, the total donations result in a collection that yields considerable amount of money, enough to give education to a poor student - indeed a firm footing for the rest of his or her life. Apart from the coin collection other sources of funding includes fundraising events (Trishna, Crescendo, and Booth in Cary Diwali) and sponsors. In the last three years TCH has funded $21,689, which includes 77 projects benefitting 270 students and two schools in India. To keep a coin box at your place or to know more about Two Cents of Hope, send an email to coordinator@nc.twocentsofhope.com www.twocentsofhope.com Urdu Majlis Urdu Majlis is a literary organization for the promotion of Urdu language and literature and has no political, national or religious affiliations. The group has regularly scheduled monthly meetings in which enthusiasts and scholars of Urdu literature meet to discuss the life and works of a selected literary figure. Info: 919.851.1119 or 919.962.1060 (Dr. Afroz Taj) 919.596.4792 (Ashraf and Seema Faruqi) taj@unity.ncsu.edu Saathee 106
Regional Cape Fear Cultural Association of India - Wilmington Cape Fear Cultural Association of India is an organization that promotes understanding of Indian culture and promotes a medium for people of Indian culture to get together. Info: Shashin Patel, President. (910.790.9448) Sanjay Batish, Vice-President. (910.371.9860) Anjali Dashputre, Treasurer. (910.395.6633) Sukhbir Dhillon, Cultural Secretary (910.796.1965)
Georgia Indo-American Chamber of Commerce The Georgia Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (GIACC) develops and promotes trade, business, commercial and professional relationships between India and the United States, especially within the state of Georgia. GIACC was formed recognizing the need for promoting bi-lateral activities among South Asian and mainstream communities in the United States and South Asia. Info: 678.762.7589 AniThirdM@aol.com, ani@giacc.org. 770.840.1925 - susan@giacc.org. www.giacc.org Hindu Society Of Eastern NC (Greenville, NC) Upcoming programs (adults): Sun Feb 7 @ 11:00 AM - Bhajans with local singers Sun Feb 14 @ 11:00 AM Mahashivratri Puja – Sri Baldev Patel, Potluck lunch will be served. Sun Feb 21 @ 10:30 AM - Geeta Study with Mr. Bangalore Srivatsa Sun Feb 28 @ 11:00 AM - Holi w/ Mr. Bangalore Srivatsa Sun Mar 7 @ 11:00 AM - Bhajans with local singers Sun Mar 14 @ 10:30 AM - Geeta Study with Mr. Bangalore Srivatsa Upcoming programs (children): Sun Feb 7, Sun Feb 14, Sun Feb 21, Sun Feb 28, Info: 252.830.5177 (Dharam Vasnani) VasnaniD@aol.com Hindutempleenc@gmail.com saathee.com
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Community News & Events South Carolina American South Asian Cultural Association of Columbia, SC The organization’s fundamental goal is to increase cultural awareness and develop cultural understanding among American South Asian Community in Columbia area. A monthly dinner will be held on the Second Sunday of every month between 6 to 9 PM. There will be $10.00 Per Person charge for dinner at India Palace, 110-A Columbia Northeast Drive, Columbia. Info: evenings 803.233.7042 or 803.233.3996 Carolina Buddhist Vihara (Greenville, SC) Regular beginner meditation program conducted by a Buddhist Monk. Activities are held Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings: 6:30 pm (puja), 7 pm (meditation), and 8 pm (“Dhamma” talk or discussion). A “youth program” is also held once a month. Info: dhammasc@hotmail.com Hindu Society of Greater Spartanburg Temple is located on 1130 Fairview Church Road in Boiling Springs, S.C. 29303. Daily Aarati is at 7:00 p.m. Balvihar classes are conducted from 10:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. on scheduled Sundays. Winter/Spring session has begun. Satsang is on second Sunday from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Major Upcoming Programs: Fri Feb 12: Mahashivratri Abhishek Sun Feb 28: Holi celebration. Info: 864.599.7048 Hindu Temple of South Carolina The Hindu Temple and Cultural Center of South Carolina was established with an objective to fill the need for thousands of Hindus in the State of South Carolina to worship and pray together, perform sacraments and rituals, to observe and celebrate festivals, and to perform and engage in humanitarian and educational activities. www.hindutemplesc.org/index.php India Assoc. of Greater Charleston (IAGC) The IAGC was founded February 2010
in
Charleston to bring together people who were interested in India and to provide a forum to increase the understanding of the heritage of India in US. Info: 803.884.0859 iagcfolks@yahoo.com International Fellowship Church of Greenville, SC International Fellowship Church offers Sunday worship services and other weekly activities for people of Indian origin. Info: 864.234.1256 (Pastor Suhas Raiborde) www.internationalfellowshipchurch.org Kannada Association of Greater Greenville (KAGG) An organization devoted to the awareness and promotion of Kannada culture in the Greater Greenville area of South Carolina. KAGG is a primarily run by volunteers and invites Kannadigas living in and around Greater Greenville area to participate in the organization. Kannada classes for children are being organized to meet at the Vedic Center in Mauldin every other Sunday morning and the annual picnic will take place on the morning of Sat Aug 29. Info: 864.430.4973 www.kagg-sc.org Masjid Noor-UL-Huda The Mosque is located at 517 Winmet Drive, Columbia, S.C. On the first Saturday and third Saturday of every month from 6 - 8 pm, Islamic session is held by Hafiz Mohammed Basheer. Quranic Reading classes are conducted daily, and everyone is encouraged to send their children to these sessions. Info: 803.749.0827 (Dr. Shami) 803.740.5127 (Qari Abdul Khader Multani) 803.754.2632 (Mosque main number) Mrudani School of Performing Arts Mrudani School of Performing Arts is a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote the classical arts of India. Mrudani School offers classes in Bharathanatyam (Kalakshetra style) and Kuchipudi in Saathee 108
Columbia, Orangeburg, and Charleston, SC. Info: Monica @ 843.849.7841 Anuradha @ 803.347.3851 classicaldance.india@gmail.com Sirigannada Sirigannada, the Kannada Association of South Carolina was created in 2004 by the interested Kannada speaking people of South Carolina. It is a voluntary organization primarily run by memberships and donations from Kannadigas of the State of South Carolina. Info: www.sirigannada.org Telugu Association of Greater Greenville, SC Telugu Association of Greater Greenville, SC, serves the Telugu community of the Greenville/ Spartanburg area. The group sponsors several events throughout the year. Info: www.taggsc.org Triad Avatar Meher Baba Group The Meher Center is a spiritual retreat/ashram located on SC Highway 17 immediately North of the Highway 22 connection 8 miles from Myrtle Beach, SC. Darshan on Fridays and Sunday (11:00 am.) / Meher Center: (843) 272-5777. Info: 336.299.9683 runderwood@webtv.net www.avatarmeherbaba.org Vedic Center of Greenville The Center is located on the Corner of Bethel Road and Bethel Drive in Mauldin, S.C. Daily Aarti is conducted Monday to Friday at 8 pm. Bal Vihar classes are conducted Sundays from 11:15 am - 12:30 pm. Sri Venkateshwara Suprabhatam is held on 2nd Sat of month at 9 am. Info: 864.967.2852
Send your organization’s news and events to us by the 15th of the month for inclusion in following month’s issue. Write to us at www.saathee.com.
A features magazine for the South Asian Community of the Carolinas
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Clues Down:
By Kirit Shukla 1
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Clues Across: 1. The capital of Pakistan. 10. “__-BZ,” Saathee’s Feature to test your IQ. 12. The thirteenth “Tithi” (day) of “Krishna-Paksha” of every month of the Hindu calendar; assigned to worship Lord Shankar. 14. Indian string instrument played by Ravi Shankar. 15. To fit or furnish with clothing. 17. Disordered; Not well organized. 19. A Greek philosopher. (427-347 B.C.) 20. Persons of the highest class. 22. Hawaii. (*) 23. To speak boastfully. 24. Rupees. (*) 26. Plural of “Man”. 27. Box Office. (*) 28. A vent in a container or covering. 31. An angle at the center of a circle, subtending an arc of a circle equal in length to radius.(=57.3˚) 33. A long tailed large mouse. 35. An athlete or team that rarely wins. 37. Ruthenium. (*) (Chemical Element) 38. The Hindu Goddess. (in Sanskrit or Hindi). 40. To dispatch a massage or an agent. 41. The symbol of the chemical element Mercury. 42. Something no matter what. 44. To implore; To ask for as a charity. 45. Long Distance. (*) 46. The day before today. February 2010
1. Distribution; The act of sending out. 2. The front part of leg from the knee to ankle. 3. Scattered rubbish. 4. The state of being readily obtainable. 5. Shrove (Fat) Tuesday, often celebrated as a day of carnival in New Orleans. 6. Arkansas. (*) 7. A whip used by a jockey. 8. Australian Tourism Accreditation Program. (*) 9. To bore a hole in (something). 11. To aim at precise center of a target. 13. International Law Association. (*) 16. Different from the one mentioned or implied. 18. Yttrium. (*) (Chemical Element). 21. The period of time marked by distinctive character, events etc. 23. Any non-venomous tropical constrictor (snake) having vestigial hind limbs at the base of the tail. 25. Unusual, extraordinary or curious. 26. Past tense of “Meet.” 27. Pertaining to a wedding or bride. 29. The union of Greece and Cyprus. 30. A worker; Laborer; Crewman. 32. “Sir Humphry __,” English chemist. 34. Humid and damp. (Weather) 36. Series of payments made by a lessee. 37. South American ratite bird like an ostrich. 39. A termination or conclusion. 43. High Explosive. (*) 44. Bills Discounted. (*) (Note: * denotes abbreviation of the word or phrase) (Puzzle solutions are on page 118. NO peeking!)
Hee Hee (Booddhoo is foolish. Mafatlal is a freeloader.)
New Convict: “This prison is old-fashioned. Why don’t the authorities make some improvements?” Guard: “What do you mean ?” Convict: “I have been in this prison nine times and always made my escape through windows.” ********* Booddhoo was a store manager. He told his salesman: “Remember, in this store the general rule is that the customer is always right. By the way, what did that old man say?” Salesman: “Oh, he said that your store manager is Booddhoo (Foolish).” ********* One spectator to another at a missile testing site: “This missile goes faster than the speed of sound or faster than sound of speed, I forget which.”
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********* saathee.com
EZ-BZ
YOUTH CORNER
TEST YOUR OWN IQ
(Created By Kirit Shukla)
(The common letters are “LL” - Fill in the blanks) 1. Four quarts is equal to one __. _ _ LL _ _ 2. Dealing with various subjects; having various qualities or aspects. _ _ _ _ _ LL _ _ _ _ _ 3. Sick; wicked. _ LL 4. A game in which a ball is kept moving from side to side over the net, by striking with hands before it touches the ground. _ _ LL _ _ _ _ LL 5. A car going on the tracks in a mine. _ _ _ LL _ _ 6. “ __ Khan,” Shehnai player. _ _ _ _ _ LL _ _ 7. Games: as Foot __; Basket __. _ _ LL 8. Customarily; ordinarily. _ _ _ _ LL _ 9. __ Caves is the archeological site in South Central India, near Aurangabad. _ LL _ _ _ 10. A south American camelid ruminant. LL _ _ _ 11. To crash; To conflict. _ _ LL _ _ _ 12. One who installs. _ _ _ _ LL _ _ 13. Of limited size; Little. _ _ _ LL 14. Unauthorized. _ LL _ _ _ _ 15. Extraordinary. _ _ _ _ LL _ _ _ 16. A counter cashier in a bank. _ _ LL _ _ 17. Covering everything. _ _ _ _ _ LL 18. The Supreme Being in Islam. _ LL _ _ 19. A cartridge (for a gun). _ _ LL _ _ 20. “ __ Harold,” U.S. film comedian. LL _ _ _ 21. Two lines which never meet. _ _ _ _ LL _ _ 22. Joyous; Happy. _ _ LL _ 23. To grant permit _ LL _ _ 24. A grated utensil to broil meat. _ _ _ LL 25. Person that obeys and follows. _ _ LL _ _ _ _
(Find & circle the words in the puzzle). (Subject: “Playing Cards”).
ACE ANTE BACCARAT BET BLUFF BRIDGE CANASTA CLUB CRIBBAGE DEALER DEUCE DIAMOND DRAW EUCHRE FLUSH FULLHOUSE
GAME GOFISH HEART JACK JOKER KING MONEY OLDMAID POKER RUMMOLI RUMMY SEQUENCE SKAT STRAIGHT TRUMP
(Puzzle solutions are on page 118. NO peeking!)
The unused 5 letters spell this feature “___ Corner.”
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India Comics Boom
Festivals & Holidays Compiled by Kirit Shukla
Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb Feb
2 5 9 12 13 14 15 16 19 25 28 -
Mar 1 Mar 11 Mar 14 Mar 15 Mar 16 Mar 17 Mar 24 Mar 26 Mar 28 Mar 30 -
February 2010 Groundhog Day Shrinathaji Patotsav Vijaya Ekadasi Maha Shivaratri Lincoln’s Birthday Darsha Amas (No Moon) Valentine’s Day Presidents’ Day Buddha Nirvana Day Ramakrishna Paramhansa Jayanti Chhatrapati Shivaji Jayanti Aamalaki Ekadasi Holi Chaitanya Mahaprabhu Jayanti March 2010 Dhuleti Hola Mohalla Paapamochini Ekadasi Daylight Saving Time begins Somavati Amas (No Moon) Gudi Padvo Cheti Chand St. Patrick’s Day Rama Navami Swaminarayan Jayanti Kaamadaa Ekadasi Mahavir Jayanti Khordad Sal Chaitri Purnima, (Full Moon) Shri Hanuman Jayanti
Holidays & Festivals of Apr. 10/May 10 1 - April Fool Day 2 - Good Friday 4 - Easter Sunday 10 - Vallabhacharya Jayanti 14 - Baishakhi 15 - Adhik/Purushottam Maas begins - Last day to File Tax Returns Apr 22 - Earth Day May 1 - Gujarat/Maharastra Day May 8 - Tagore Jayanti May 9 - Mother’s Day - Kamala Ekadasi May 13- Darsha amas (No Moon) - Adhik/Purushottam Maas ends May 24- Mohini Ekadasi May 26- Narsimha Jayanti May 27- Buddha Purnima (Full Moon) May 31- Memorial Day Apr Apr Apr Apr Apr Apr
February 2010
continued from page 6 side the parameters of literature and outside the parameters of art.” To start that process, Pao will soon bring out an anthology of new and veteran Indian comic book artists in conjunction with a major international publishing house. Though all the material has not yet been selected, the depth and variety of the work that has been chosen so far sounds promising. In one story, for instance, a young Indian writer has collaborated with a Japanese expatriate to produce a sort of spoof of the epic Mahabharata — in Japan’s much-admired “manga” style. In another, a medical doctor has collaborated with a graphic artist on a nonfiction comic, almost like an academic study, on the meat-eating habits of northern India. And in a third, a filmmaker has collaborated with a illustrator/animator on a gothic story set in 18th century Lucknow that obliquely addresses conflicts between women’s selfrealization and the bounds of tradition. “It’s fantastic to see these types of stories being told,” said Devarajan. “It further enhances the opportunity for Indian audiences to reassess what they perceived as a comic book and start taking the medium seriously.”
Stock Tickers continued from page 54 steady trading range recently, hovering between $75$85 per barrel. Every year, the Federal Reserve Board meets eight times to review economic data, monetary policy, and make appropriate adjustments to interest rates as deemed appropriate and in extreme circumstances, the Fed has taken action in between meetings as well. Interest rates were lowered to historically low levels during 4Q2008 where they remained for the entire CY2009. The mystery is that when interest rates inevitably do rise, how will the markets react to that situation? Perhaps the markets already understand that rising rates will be a part of the recovery? If the interest rate changes are small and gradual, the markets may not be spooked too much but if we see a “1994” again (a series of sharp interest rate increases over a short period of time), the bears may awaken from their slumber once again. The scheduled meetings for CY2010 are as follows: March 16, April 27-28, June 22-23, August 10, September 21, November 2-3 and December 14. Special Note: This article contains the ideas and thoughts of its author and it does not necessarily imply the viewpoints of Saathee magazine, this website or its principals. Rajesh Ganatra is also the Community News Editor for Saathee and writes the “The Cricket Forum” column. Contact: rajeshtganatra@rocketmail.com Saathee 112
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February 2010
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rate in the last week of the month. Time is not good for students. If involved in research activities, your luck will give you an important opportunity. Hard work is a must during this period. Also keep your eye on your health.
General Predictions for February 2010 ARIES (Mar 20- Apr 20) Lack of confidence and depression may continue this month. Your ill health could be another major concern. Try to slow down in life while risk taking tendencies must be curbed. Your mistakes may cost you a lot. Prayers and religious activities will help you in maintaining your financial status. Travelling should be avoided. Voluntary social activities can also prove to be a good option. TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 21) Now is the time to relax and maintain income. Your status at place of work may go up, but with very minor increase in income. Speculation and stock market may help you financially. Investment in real estate may also prove beneficial. Avoid travel. Minor family disputes and politics at place of work may disturb your peace of mind. Arguments with friends may also be another issue. GEMINI (May 21 - Jun 21) You may enjoy a rise in your income and a higher status during this month. Your sixth sense will help you in achieving great success. Your spouse may create misunderstanding and stress in your family life. Your health could be another reason for disturbances. Well planned actions and quick reactions may bring prosperity for you in the last week. Keep rolling your money in different forms of money making fields. CANCER (Jun 21 - Jul 22) You will enjoy few lucky shots. This will help you advance your savings. Your expenses will come down and you will feel relaxed. Sudden aggression and thoughtless language could be your enemy this month. Try to be happy and control your anger. You will be able to tackle your enemies and gain out of your success. Check your diet, however, and avoid spicy and gastric irritating food. LEO (Jul 22 - Aug 23) You may enjoy control over others, but you will be controlled by your competitors. You may see positive change in family life. Success will be there in many ways. Your expenses, however, may cross all limits. Try not to borrow money to pay the bills. Business-related travel may also keep you occupied. You may also try to develop relations outside traditional relations. Major improvement in health is also indicated. VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 23) Now is the time to move. Don’t forget to follow your own morals and ideology. The first half of the month is more important than the second half. Avoid taking stress, as your health may deterioFebruary 2010
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LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 23) You may experience a real mess around you during this month. It may rule your life and you will feel helpless. You will also enjoy very little help from your family or spouse. The last week of the month will bring a minor but positive change in your life. This change will also bring some financial relief. Don’t waste your energy in fighting against the circumstances. Surrender and wait. SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 22) You may get mixed results this month. The ups and downs could be very minor. The most important thing is to watch your health very carefully. Financially you will see little improvement. Time is good to buy new property or plan to decorate existing. Your intelligent move can bring good luck for you in the second half of the month. Don’t react aggressively to get more than your luck gives you. SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21) Life will move fast and you will not be able to cope with it. Build your team and work together. You may take in more and more responsibilities and end up in confusion. Your siblings and friends may be involved in your advancement. Follow their ideology and keep working hard to achieve better success. There is a chance of an accident, hence drive very carefully. CAPRICORN (Dec 21 - Jan 20) You will do extremely well in your field of activities. Your service or job conditions will definitely improve. You will have tremendous confidence to make decisions and act on them. Family member’s attitude will be very encouraging and helping towards you. This will bring tremendous amount of mental happiness. The relaxed state of mind will help you in developing self-confidence. Curb your expenses. AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 19) You will flourish this month. A very successful and productive period is on the way. If involved in partnership, it will add to your success. Hurry up to collect, as in the last week; you should be spending some of it. The week is the perfect time for new changes. You may also have to spend some money on unnecessary family issues. In short you will have enough resources to enjoy luxury and materialistic life. PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20) The time has turned positive for you. This month is very good for love, fun, success and money. The faster you move, the more you will enjoy. Your bank balance is definitely going to go down as you will spend to enjoy. You may also have to spend to resolve aggression in family issues. Steady support from your spouse will be there. The period is favorable for investment. Move fast, but with caution. By Jalendu Vaidya Contact: 973-365-1766 / hindusvision.com saathee.com
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February 2010
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Classifieds BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES: Businesses For Sale: Café, restaurants, deli, coin laundry, dry cleaners, and more plus residential listings. Call for the best discounts when you buy or sell. Guaranteed Excellent Service! 704.649.9095. Broker. Independent C-Store/Gas Station For Sale: with 6 acres of land. 3200 sq. ft. store with Grill kitchen appliance & 16 diners seating. On site living facility. Asking $260K. Option to lease. 919342-9625. Profitable HealthyWay Café Restaurant For Sale: in Jacksonville, FL. Owner financing available. Contact us at 919-815-3026 or hnhfranchisebrokers@gmail.com Blimpie Subs For Sale: in Spartanburg, SC. Moved to a new location, new building, new decor, new 19 year lease, 7 year established business. Call 864 357 1549 or e-mail vijaynaik99@hotmail.com EVOS: Successful Franchisor of America’s First Healthier Fast Food. Burgers, fries, and shakes that are 5070% less fat, 100% full of flavor! Financing Available. 919-815-3026 www.evos.com. Convenience Store / Indian Grocery Store For Sale: Greensboro, NC. Excellent location with high traffic! Very good opportunity! Call 336-508-2540 Convenience Store for Sale Ashville NC. 4K + sf store/gas station & storage warehouses on 5.93 acres. New beer cave. Off road diesel. Inside: 813K, Gallon:681K + 30K. warehouse income +10k tanning income + 15K lotto commissions. Only $1.1M, GR $3M. Conv store only $550K: 704-814-9435 www.countysouth.biz Drycleaners For Sale: A well established Drycleaners has a main plant & pick-up store. Excellent Charlotte locations. Don’t miss excellent opportunity! Call 704-277-5013 EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES: Now Hiring Eyebrow Threading Practitioners: Full & Part-time for Mall Locations in North Carolina (Charlotte, Hickory, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Durham) and Virginia ( Virginia Beach, Newport News). Willing to train. E-mail to bk56@sbcglobal.net or call 248-721-3255 Full-Time Help Wanted: For convenience store/gas station near Charlotte, NC. Looking for couples. Accommodations Provided! Call 704.701.9975 Live-In/ live out Nanny needed for household duties & care of two children (after-school). In Pinehurst, NC (1 hour south of Cary). For enquiries call 910.255.0408.
February 2010
Nanny Wanted: In Ballantyne area of Charlotte. Looking for Nanny (7am 6pm M-F) Live-In or Live-Out. Children are 12 & 9. Knowledge of English, Malayalam or Tamil required. Call Subath at 803-466-7381 or Binu at 803467-5564
50 Room Independent Motel: in Charlotte area is now hiring a manager with good communication skills. 3 bedroom.apartment with salary. Legal Status Required. Please send reply to: P.O. Box 668003 - Charlotte, NC 28266 or leave message 704-936-8835.
Full-Time Help Wanted: For Quiznos in Raleigh, NC. Single or Couple. Good Salary & opportunity for growth. Training provided. Call Vinit (919)358-4876
Nanny Wanted: Experienced Live In/Live out Nanny to take care of 3 month-old boy. Duties restricted only to baby care. References required. Cary, NC. Call for details at 919-469-5666
Hotel Management Firm Now Hiring: housekeepers, General Manager/s, Front Desk (must speak English) of franchise hotels. Experience is must for all possitions. E-Mail resumes to rsrkcorp@yahoo.com or call 803.606.9994 Threading Practitioners Needed: in North Charlotte. The Brow Bar (Northlake Mall-Charlotte). Full and part time. Must speak English. Work weekends and evenings. Experience required. Call 980322-1110 or email: mo@the-browbrow.com Live-In Nanny Wanted: I am looking for someone who can live at my house (Near Philadelphia,Pennsylvania Area) and take care of my 10 months old baby and do cooking and other household work. Call 610-812-2827 or e-mail: neelam.banga@gmail.com Franchise Motel Help Wanted: Single person for Front Desk Clerk position: Need to be fluent in English & have computer skills. Or hiring a Couple as resident. Accomodation provided. Charlotte, vicinity. Email: BWHospitality78@gmail.com Nanny Needed: Reliable full time live in/live out help needed for a two-year old in Raleigh, NC. (Cooking and light house work) Please call (919) 380-8751 Gas Station Help Wanted: Full time help for convenience store in South Carolina. Offer good pay. Experience preferred but not required. Call 803.410.0185 Nanny Needed: for a 1 year-old boy. For 8 hours Monday - Friday in the University area of Charlotte, NC. Call only if you can do cooking & light house chores. Transportation arrangements required. Knowing English, Urdu or Malayalam is a plus. Call 704-971-2004 or 704-654-5361 Hotel Management Firm Now Hiring: Various positions available for house keepers, front desk (must speak fluent English), and General Manager/s of franchise hotels. Experience is REQUIRED for all positions. Serious inquiries only. E-mail resumes to info@abcinns.com or abcone@abcinns.com Elderly Care & Household Help Needed: Looking for a Indian Lady to take care of an older lady. Flexible Hours between 9am to 5pm, M-F. Must have transportation. Duties include: preparing light lunch from leftovers, make dinner for 2 & watch Zee-TV. Gujarati speaker preferred. South Charlotte, Park Rd area. Live-In / Live-Out. Call 704-408-9844
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Full Time Managers Needed Immediately: for clothing stores in Malls located in Durham & Rocky Mount, NC. Also in Spartanburg, SC. Experience is preferred but not necessary. Call Rajesh at 704-277-3233 or send resume to pushpainc@gmail.com Kitchen Help Needed: for Rajbhog Foods, Charlotte, North Carolina. Please call 704-909-7783 or e-mail to charlotte@rajbhog.com. PROPERTY FOR SALE OR RENT: Home For Sale: Providence Plantation (Charlotte,NC) - 2849 Redfield Dr. $246,000. Best Price! +/- 2,400 sq.f. 4/5 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, security system, fenced yard & playground. Original owner. Homeowner warranty. Great Schools! Near I-485. Broker fee of 4%. If no broker, will match eligible tax credit for qualified buyers at closing no later than 4/30/2010. Call 704-845-8018. For Rent: In South Charlotte. 3 BR & 2 1/2 bath compact condo w/ front veranda & back porch. Located across from Arboretum Shopping Cntr. Near Providence & Hwy 51. Excellent elementary & high schools. Rent $950/month. Call 704-904-2098 Room To Let: For H-1 Students or Couple. In Charlotte, NC area. Call 704302-6218 Home For Sale: A One-Of-A-Kind plan in subdivision! Minutes from Indian Grocers & restaurants, shopping & RTP! 4 bedroom, 3.5 Bath, Office, Bonus, Rec Room / 3,525 sq.ft. $399,900. Call Gina Miller (919) 363-4200 For Rent: Spacious and affordable 1 & 2 bedroom condo's available immediately in the Charlotte & Gastonia, NC areas. For Details call 704.334.8404 or e-mail Mckinleyreg@gmail.com. Condo for Rent: Near waterfront and swimming pool. Walking distance to bus. Perfect for small family, H-1 workers or students. 704.619.1603 CARS FOR SALE: 2005 BMW X3 For Sale: GREAT VALENTINE’S PRESENT! Feels and drives like new. Only 45K miles. Why drive a Honda or Toyota SUV? First $19,795 OBO. Serious Inquiries only. Call 704-701-9701. 2003 Mercury Sable For Sale: Good condition. 110K mi. Recently inspected. $3000. e-mail rakavid@aol.com
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PRODUCTS: Portable Tandoor Ovens For Sale: Ideal for residential or restaurant use. Use for parties & more! Call 919-949-1156 MATRIMONIAL: Correspondence Invited: Seeking Professional Girl For Our Son. Dentist. 31 years. 6 ft. tall. Handsome & athletic. Hindu North Indian family. No Restrictions. Contact: vs4114@gmail.com Gujarati Patel Family Invite Correspondence: Boy - August’83, 5’11’’. B.Pharm(India), MBA Healthcare Management (USA) - Charlotte, NC. Has Student Visa. Seeking Gujarati, Educated, US Citizen or GC Girl. Call 980-229-2964 or email: aone999@yahoo.com Seeking Guajarati Brahmin Male: age 28 - 31 for sister currently residing in India. She has an MBA from Australia and is currently working and residing in Amdavad. Call 704.274.9204 or (+91) 9726647544 for details. Father Seeking Alliance For Son: US Citizen, 29, Gujarati, IT professional, Raleigh area. niravs0927@gmail.com Looking for Brahmin Gujarati Girl: 27 yr Gujarati Brahmin boy. Ht. 5’10’’. Masters in Computer Science. E-mail: bio@coolbhatt.com SERVICES: Weldone Beauti Parlour: Eyebrow threading, Facial, Body Massage, Waxing, Henna Designs, Skincare, Haircare treatment. Latest Indian technique and more. visit www.weldoneBeautiParlour.com or call (704) 699-8397. Looking For Motel Work: We are Gujarati speaking couple and looking for work as motel housekeeper in NC or SC. We are hard working people. If you have position available, please call us at 704-728-8234. Beautician in Matthews, NC: Pari Beauty - Threading, waxing, bleach, facial, manicure, pedicure & much more. 18 years of experience. For appointment call 704.846.7912 ART / DRAWING CLASS: For Ages 4 to 15. Learn sketches, charcoal painting, modern art, oil on canvas, etc. From an experienced Teacher & Artist. For Details Call Karli: 704-541-9439 / 704-965-3550 or email: karli@rediffmail.com Video & Videography Services for any Event: Visit www.arcfilmstudio.com or call 704.608.2049 - Located at 1122 Sam Newell Rd. - Matthews, NC 28105. Make an appointment today! Violin & Dance Lessons: Available in Matthews / Charlotte area. Reasonable rates and flexible schedule. Call Dusty. 704.608.2049.
February 2010
Tax Returns: Federal & State Tax Preparation with e-filing, Accounting and Bookkeeping Services to Individuals, Self-employed, Small Partnerships and S-corps. Call Mahesh Patel, EA (704) 799-6377, Email: masupatel4@yahoo.com
Astrologer With Gold Medals Jayanti Lad- Contact for Health, Wealth, Relationship, Child, Enemies, Court Cases, Marriage, Job, Business, Vastu Problems, Preparing & Matching Horoscope. Call 919-463-5180 Jayantinlad@yahoo.com
Neeta’s Beauty Parlor: Charlotte area open 7 days a week. Full service. Please call for appointment. 704.968.0270.
Mehandi (Henna): Award winning artist from Jaipur, India specializing in wedding parties (Bride & attendants). Satisfaction guaranteed regarding design, color & price. Please call: Krishna Priya Dasi 919.824.7734 E-Mail: krsnapriyad@hotmail.com
Gujarati Priest: Devendra Dave Independent priest. Ganesh, Randal, Navratri, Diwali’s Laxmi & Sharda Pujas, Satyanarayan Katha, Weddings, Vastu, Baby Showers, Funeral Seva. Call Daveji 704.780.3563. God Blessings to All. South Indian Priest: Sastriji is an independent priest Call for Pujas, Gruhapravesh, Weddings, Multi-lingual, Vedic traditional priestly services, etc. Call 704.625.7578 704.231.0751. Email: sastrigal2003@yahoo.com Balaji Priest: All kinds of puja, havan, katha, weddings, graha shanti, funeral services & Shraadh. In Hindi, English & Tamil. 704.877.6320 or 704.545.7220. Home Improvement & Fix-It Services: Specialize in Decks, Porches, Tiling, Painting, Trim, HVAC, Electricals, Landscaping, Pressure Wash & More! Call 704-827-1109 or 704-737-3608. 10% OFF first service. Math Tutoring : Real-time tutoring using virtual whiteboard technology with professional tutors based in India. Free 30 min trial. As low as $7 for a 45 minute session. State-aligned curriculum & assessments. WWW.TCYONLINE.COM. Call Ritu Thakur 704-4437054 or toll-free 888-757-8377 Deepti Beauty Parlor: (Concord, NC near Highland Creek/Skybrook): Threading, waxing, facial, bleach, manicure, pedicure & much more. For appointment call 704.405.5574 Personal Tax Returns: Raleigh Tax & Accounting Company. Our specialty is personal tax returns at a reasonable price. Call 919-889-5684 or email: dpatel1962@gmail.com Dholi For Hire: Plays the Dhol (drum), for any occasion, barat, doli, graduation, birthdays, baby showers and any other festivity. Affordable rate. Call Ritu Bhandari at 704.843.7202. email: sbhandari@carolina.rr.com Tuition Available: An Experienced Math, Physics, Chemistry Tutor for middle school, high school, IB & AP Courses. Ballantyne Area of Charlotte. 704.497.2639 Salon/Spa Services: Beauty Parlour near Arboretum area (Charlotte, NC). Pineville-Matthews Rd. Call (980) 4220035 Home / (858) 342-1591 Cell Babysitter Available: Several years of experience in the Charlotte area. Fluent in Gujarati, Hindi & English. Call 704.619.1603
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Computer Consulting: Assistance with software installation, set-up, formatting, back-up, troubleshooting & more. Very reasonable rates. 704.619.2358 Accent Reduction Training: Threemonth tutorial with certified speech-language pathologist. Transform accents from career obstacles to charming cultural flavors. Invest in your future!www.trianglespeech.com Get Paid To Shop Online: 2% cash back on your purchases. 1/2 % cash back on referral purchases. Get a Mastercard that rewards you no matter where you shop. Get paid to click! www.InnRoomMall.com Henna Designs: Experienced henna artist for weddings, parties, arangetrams & more. Reasonable rates. Charlotte area. Call 704.619.0251 Tutoring: for 5th to 10th grades mathematics. Also tutoring & lessons in Hindi. Charlotte Area. Call 704.619.0251 SAATHEE CLASSIFIEDS:
Business ads are $25 & personal ads are $15 up to 25 words. Submit classifieds on-line at www.saathee.com or via e-mail, fax or US Mail. Ad Submission Deadline is the 20th of the month. We accept credit cards and checks. Ads are posted on saathee.com at no extra charge. Feel free to call us with any questions. 704.527.7570.
Saathee Classifieds PO Box 11468, Charlotte, NC 28220 E-mail: Saatheemag@hotmail.com Fax: 704.527.7590 www.saathee.com
A features magazine for the South Asian Community of the Carolinas
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Index of Advertisers Abbi, Chitra (Real Estate) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 Access Realty & Funding (Chandravadan Shah) . . .39 AKM Realty (Arvind Mahajan) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Amberly Family Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93 Anil Bedi & Associates PC (CPA & Consultants) . . .21 Apna Bazaar (Morrisville) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75 Apna Travels (Morrisville) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79 Around The World Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 Asad Enterprises (International Calling) . . . . . . .119 Atlanta Liquidation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107 Bashyam, Spiro & Edgerton LLP (Immigration Law)115 Bhindi Jewellers . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Front Cover Blake Hotel (Charlotte) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Blooming Buds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 Bombay Grille Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Boogie Woogie Dance competition . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Cafe Curry Leaves (Mooresville) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 Carolina Retina Institute (Amit Kumar MD) . . . . . .52 Cary Cardiology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82 Cary Children's Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 Cary Insurance Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 Cary Internal Medicine & The Diabetes Center, PA .72 Cary Medical Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 Cary Photo & Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115 Chandni's Beauty Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 Chef Of India (formerly Suchi Indian Cuisine) . . . .65 CJ Tax & Accounting Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93 CMA College Consulting (Christine Hall) . . . . . . . .66 Concha, David - Immigration Attorney . . . . . . . . .56 Cornerstone Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine . . . . .26 County South Realty & Business Brokers . . . . . . . .69 Dale's & Tandoor Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Dances Of India with Dr. Maha Gingrich . . . . . . . .14 Dave & Dave Inc. (Accounting) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 Desai Desai Accounting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69 Dish Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 DJ Hangama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 DJ Kenz (Kenz Desai) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 DJ Desi (Amit Vasi) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 DJ Don (David Pandoria) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 DJ Lalit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 DJ Ravi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109 Elements of the Wedding (The Main Event) . . . . . .89 Eshaan Jewelers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Evershine Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Eye Care Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72 Eye Institue of NC, P.C. (Anupama Horne, MD) . . .36 Fairview Home Mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105 Friends Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 Global Electronics (Wholesale of Hotel LCD TV) . . .87 Grand India Mart (Groceries) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Greater Triangle Realty (Thomas John) . . . . . . . . .21 Hotbreads Cafe (Nick Foods) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 iFuturistics Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Inchin's Bamboo Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 Indian Food & Spices (Fayetteville) . . . . . . . . . . . .65 Indu Conv. Store Greensboro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 Indus Fashions (Cary) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 International Comm Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 Isaac, S (Real Estate) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 IWP Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103 Jivan, Mahendra (Puri - Papdi Press & Wood Crafts) 89 K.B. Zaveree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Kadhai Restaurant (Raleigh) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77 Kadhambam Spices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Kashish Food Mart (Greensboro) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 KD Photographics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99 Khan, Ken (Credit Card Processing) . . . . . . . . . . .65 Legacy Jewelers . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Back Cover Lightning Minds (Training In Oracle Tech) . . . . . . .99 Mahabazar Imports (Ruchi Lime Pickle) . . . . . . . .113 Mahabazar.com Travels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113 Malani Jewelers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Back Cover Marriott at RTP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Maruthi Pediatrics (Dr. Badriprasad R. Donthi) . . . .59 McCuiston Law Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 Moneysoft Incorporated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 Montessori Children's House of Durham . . . . . . . .57 Nationwide Ins. (Maqsood Khan) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 NC Dermatology Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63 Nuv Yug (India Fest - Shreya Ghoshal) . . . . . . . . .15 Oxford Learning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103 Oza, Rishi (Immigration Legal Services) . . . . . . . .18 Palika Bazaar & Jewelers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 Palloo's Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 February 2010
Parekh , Bipin & Smita (Real Estate) . . . . . . . . . . .9 Patel Brothers (Cary) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85 Patel, Amrita (Real Estate) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 Patel, Champa (Real Estate) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Patel, Mrugesh (Law Offices) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 Patel, Shailesh DDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82 Patel, Shital (Clearline Mortgage) . . . . . . . . . . . . .85 Perfect Impact Salon & Spa (Morrisville) . . . . . . . . .5 Poplai, Deepak (White Insurance) . . . . . . . . . . . .79 Prashant Video Production . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Property Net Realty (Suku Pandiyattu) . . . . . . . . .73 R.P. Videography (Rashmi Patel) . . . . . . . . . . . . .79 Rajbhog Foods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 Rajdeep Mandap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76 Rajdeep Video (Ramesh Panjabi) . . . . . . . . . . . .109 Real Triangle Properties (Joe Mathews) . . . . . . . . .55 Roopkala Sarees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75 Royal Dhaba (Morrisville) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60 Royal India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 Sam's Mart Inc. (Paul Joseph) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120 Sangam Mart (Indian Groceries) . . . . . . . . . . . . .95 Shah, Kirti (CPA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Shiv Travels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Shiva Parvathi Temple . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101 Sitar Indian Cuisine (Durham) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 Sleep Inn (Charlotte) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105 Smart Properties (Real Estate) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Srivastava, Ujjwal (Real Estate) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Sur-Sumiran School Of Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Taj Mahal Restaurant (Raleigh) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 The Montessori School of Raleigh . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 Tots N Teens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88 Tower Restauant (Morrisville) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Travel Universe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 Travelinks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87 Triangle Indian Market (Cary) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Triangle Physicians Group (Dr. Varadarajan) . . . .103 Ttravel Guru . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Udupi Cafe (Cary) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Usha Decor (Wedding Planning & Decor) . . . . . . . .18 Varghese, Emmanuel (Real Estate) . . . . . . . . . . . .97 Vase & Vine (Florist) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Vemma & Verve! Energy Drinks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 VGS India Mart (Morrisville) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 Virsa Panjab Da - Bhangra Competition (NCSU) . . .91 Vyas Travels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Wake OB/Gyn (Dr. Nanda Shah) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 White Horse Weddings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66 Worldwide travels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109 Zaina Beauty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Zayka Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95
Saathee 118
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Europe
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Americas & AFRICA
Austria 2.4¢ Belgium 2.2¢ Denmark 2.0 Finland 4.6 France 2.2¢ Germany 2.2¢ Greece Athens 2.8¢ Ireland 2.3¢ Italy 2.2¢ Netherlands 2.4¢ Norway 2.5¢ Poland 2.5¢ Portugal 3.7¢ Spain 2.5¢ Sweden 2.5¢ Switzerland 2.5¢
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United Kingdom 1.7¢
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India 3.1¢ India mobile 2.1¢ Iran 9.1¢ Iran Cell 9.1¢ Iran Tehran 5.6¢ Japan 3.7¢ Malaysia 3.6¢ Nepal 27.8¢
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C-STORES FOR SALE: Charlotte & Greensboro NC, Columbia SC and Atlanta Metro area. Owner Financing Options on select locations. Call Paul for details.