Saathee Raleigh October 2024 by Shukla Entertainment

Hello Readers

This month's Editor's Desk channels the potential "Dividends of Democracy" availed to Americans, if only they participate in elections. See page 14.

The Mirror Mirror column addresses "Finding Solace in Solitude" in the essay on page 26.

Namaskar Y'all column writes about "Demanding Justice for Women Around the World" on page 40.

Flip over to our Personal Finances column to read about "Medicare Choices We Have to Make When the Time Comes." It's on page 62.

This month's recipe is the delicious anytime dessert "Gajar (Carrot) Halwa." Find it on page 74.

Check out our updated Pops Puzzles and Toons on page 102.

Flip over to our redesigned Classiﬁeds section beginning on page 108.

Share Saathee with friends and family. We would be happy to add anyone in the Carolinas to the Saathee subscription base at no charge, simply visit saathee.com/subscription and also sign up for our free weekly e-newsletter: saathee.com/weekly-e-newsletter

“The most dangerous creation of any society is the man who has nothing to lose.”

- James Baldwin

Cover: Diwali

Diwali is the annual Festival of Lights celebrated in India and many parts of the world. It is celebrated by families and friends gathering and feasting on delicious foods and sweets. The diyas (earthen lamps) and rangoli (colorful designs usually placed near the entrance of homes) are some of the traditional markers of Diwali.

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“Bridging America and the Indian Subcontinent.”

October 2024 Issue # 317

Editor Samir Shukla (Samir@Saathee.com)

Publisher & Advertising Divakar Shukla 704-527-7570 or saatheemag@hotmail.com

Digital Media & Marketing

Jennifer W. Allen

Ad Design / Layout DSJ Graphics & Manimaran

Contributors for this issue:

Kirit Shukla, Shyama Parui, Taige Shukla, Dipika Kohli, Preethi Sriram, Jayant Pandya Girish Modi, Mo Vidwans, Hiren Deliwala, Ketu Desai, and Jalendu Vaidya.

Mission: Our goal is to be a valuable source of information for the South Asian community and to be a vital advertising tool for businesses.

Opinions expressed herein are those of the writers and advertisers and not necessarily of the publisher or editor. Please contact us prior to submitting articles or photographs. Saathee is published monthly. Deadlines for advertisement, submissions and events information is 15th of the month.

Saathee

Page 14 Editor’s Desk: Diwali Stamped and Democracy Dividends

Page 36 Film Clips: Jigra Starring Alia Bhatt Opens in October

Page 28: Immigrants are Unsung Heroes of Global Trade & Value Creation

Page 74 Recipe: Gajar (Carrot) Halwa

The Editor’s Desk pg. 14

Upcoming Events

Mirror, Mirror

. . .pg. 18

.pg. 26

Immigrants are Unsung Heroes pg. 28

Upcoming Movie Releases pg. 34

Film Clips pg. 36

Namaskar Y’all pg. 40

Memories of Lataji pg. 54

Spot the Differences

Adult Dance Student

.pg. 56

.pg. 58

Personal Finances pg. 62

News Notes pg. 64

Embracing New Chapter pg. 68

Community Focus pg. 70

Road to Elecctions pg. 84 Tune Your Brain pg. 100 Pop’s Puzzles & Toons .

. .pg. 102 Festivals and Holidays pg. 104 Puzzle Solutions pg. 104 AstroScope pg. 106

Classifieds pg. 108

Path to Fast Track Career

Index of Advertisers pg. 112 Content

Eye on the Markets

.pg. 44

.pg. 46

Kismuth and the Way II pg. 50

Recipe: Gajar (Carrot) Halwa

Festival of India 2024

. .pg. 74

.pg. 80 AI vs. AI pg. 82

Editor’s Desk

by Samir Shukla

Diwali Stamped

Here is a suggestion for all who get bogged down in the incessant deluge of digital communications, but are looking for warmer connections. Write a letter this Diwali season. Handwritten on a piece of paper, placed in an envelope, stamped and mailed oﬀ to a friend or family member, maybe someone who is currently going through some darkness.

Diwali is the festival of lights. Let the letter, sent via the light of a Diwali stamp, help someone brighten up their world.

Diwali is also a festival of hope, of the ﬁght of good versus evil, the converging of families and friends, often like such holidays in other religious traditions. We need more light of reason and engagement in the unraveling of the threads of human connections. Let’s re-stitch some of these threads of relationships and friendships via a simple, unexpected letter.

Mark the dark and rough paths with a little bit of light. This year Diwali is on October 31, 2024. For those unfamiliar, the Diwali date is marked by the lunar calendar that Hindus follow, so it is diﬀerent every year, but usually lands during fall.

Ok, you got that letter ready? Now buy Diwali stamps online at United States Postal Service: Go to Usps.com, and search for Diwali stamps.

Democracy Dividends

Hold on to your hats. This turbulence-fueled ﬂight is about to land. The time is drawing near to employ the landing gears and attempt a smooth landing. A diverse set of Americans are sitting close to each other on this packed ﬂight called democracy.

The political conventions are over. The presidential and vice-presidential debates have been tagged and sold. It’s now time for the voters to disembark this disorienting ride and make a stand.

A distinctly important American election is just around the corner – Tuesday, November 5, 2024, to be precise. Somewhere in all the nastiness, the halftruths and the politically alternative narratives leading up to that hallowed Tuesday, a possible future awaits.

This is where participation matters. If you are like me, and I’m imagining most people are, I’m interested in a future of possibilities, not a today of constant pessimism, or a past of grievances and missed opportunities. Making achievable goals and then executing what needs to be done is the need.

I’ve become weary of people who spew constant negativity. I don’t need the downers. Give me potential, doable solutions along with your complaints, and I’ll listen. I’m interested in being a whisperer of positivity. Life is too short.

Talking and engaging can help people become aware of their blind spots and assumptions. Much of the divisiveness is due to external characters manipulating or manufacturing conﬂicts. Emotional responses oft win out over logical thinking. Some people are simply acting out of frustration due to numerous missed plays in their lives, or events and setbacks that happened to them but were totally out of their control. Or they let political derangements and conspiracy theories get the best of them.

I think this exchange of where we are in our lives - the reﬂections, the joys and the setbacks, the unknowns and the planned - is the foundation for seeking solutions and unity. Exchanging ideas and presenting workable solutions at diﬀerent intersections in our lives, well, isn’t that the essence of progress? These interactions anchor us in a place and time as humans.

Grand Opening Grand Opening

Upcoming Events

Grand Navaratri Mahotsav and Garba Nights: Greensboro, NC (October 3 – 12, 2024)

Enjoy nine nights and two weekends of garba and raas presented by the Gujarati Cultural Assoc of Piedmont (GCAP) from October 3 – 12, 2024. Also on the weekends, October 4 – 5, & October 11, 2024 beginning at 7pm there will be live music with Nimesh Nagar and Band. Entry is $10, Free for GCAP members. Location: 127 Landmark Dr., Greensboro, NC 27409. Info: 336-430-7961 or 919-799-1603.

ICC 40th Anniversary Celebration: Apex, NC (October 5, 2024)

The International Community Church celebrates its 40th anniversary on Saturday, October 5, 2024 beginning at 10:30am. There will be thanksgiving songs in multiple Indian languages and a love meal will be served. Location: 1402 East Williams St., Apex, NC. For more details, call 919-233-2900 or visit Iccchurch.org.

Carolina Renaissance Festival: Huntersville, NC (October 5November 24, 2024)

History comes alive with entertainment, arts and crafts, games and rides, jousting knights on horseback, and feasting. The Renaissance Festival is a 16th century European-style art, food and entertainment festival combining outdoor theater, crafts, circus entertainment, and marketplace. Each weekend from October 5 – November 24, 2024 has a diﬀerent theme. Info: Carolina.renfestinfo.com.

India Food Fest: Charleston, SC (October

The India Association of Greater Charleston presents a Food Fest on Sunday, October 6, 2024, from 11:30am – 4:30pm at Scottish Rite Center, 1051 Sam Rittenburg Blvd., Charleston, SC. Free parking and entry. There will also be henna, vendors, saree draping, balloon art and more. For more info call 501-9327010 or write to info@iagcchs.org.

6, 2024)

South Carolina State Fair:

Columbia,

SC (October

9 – 20, 2024)

Every year, people of all ages descend upon Columbia to attend the South Carolina State Fair. The wide variety of exhibits, thrilling rides, and unique food – such as chocolate-covered bacon, doughnut burgers, and even fried Coca Cola –draws visitors from near and far. This year the fair will run between October 9 & 20, 2024 at the Fairgrounds on Rosewood Drive in Columbia, SC. Info: Scstatefair.org.

Tryon International Film Festival: (October 10 – 13, 2024)

The Tryon International Film Festival is one of the few film festivals in the world that employs the entire town. Six screening venues operate seamlessly during the three-day event as retail shops, restaurants and bars come alive with activity as filmmakers and fans walk the streets, enjoy street entertainment & art. The festival will run between October 10 & 13, 2024. Details: Tryoninternationalfilmfestival.org.

Fall for Greenville:

(October 11 – 13, 2024)

Discover a world of tempting tastes, sights and sounds, as mouthwatering aromas carry you along Greenville’s Main Street. With over 40 restaurants featuring over 200 menu items and free entertainment on seven stages, Greenville, SC invites you to enjoy this popular outdoor festival. It will be held between October 11 & 13, 2024, indulge in a weekend full of ﬂavor. Admission is free. Info: Fallforgreenville.net.

Hum Sub Cary Diwali: October 12, 2024

Hum Sub and the Town of Cary presents the annual Hum Sub Diwali 2024 on Saturday, October 12, 2024 at the Koka Booth Amphitheatre in Cary, NC. Celebrate the Festival of Lights with cultural performances, music, dance, delicious food, and an exhibition by pioneering women leaders. The event will also feature music performances by Suresh & Padma Wadkar along with Pawny Padney. Gates open at 9am and admission is free. Parking is $10-$20. For more details, visit humsub.org.

TGA Garba Night: Cary, NC (October 12, 2024)

Triangle Gujarati Association and HSNC presents Garba Night on Saturday, October 12, 2024, with doors opening at 6:30pm. There will be a live band from India. All proceeds will go to HSNC temple. The

Upcoming Events

venue is Panther Creek High School, 6770 McCrimmon Pkwy, NC. Food will be available for purchase. For more details, call 919-522-5511 or visit Nctga.org.

Charlotte Vegfest: (October 12, 2024)

Charlotte Vegfest is a family-friendly celebration of a healthy, sustainable, and compassionate lifestyle and explores the endless beneﬁts of vegan living. Fest brings together veg-minded businesses. It will be held, Saturday, October 12, 2024 at the Amp Ballantyne, 11115 Upper Ave, Charlotte, NC. Info: 2024charlottevegfest.com.

Global Mela: Norcross, GA (October 12 – 13, 2024)

The annual mela takes place at Global Mall, 5675 Jimmy Carter Blvd., Norcross, GA on October 12 – 13, 2024 from 11am – 7pm daily. Free entry and parking. Enjoy performances, kids’ activities, shopping, exhibitions and more. Info: 770-416-1111 or visit amsglobalmall.com.

Duck Jazz Festival: (October 12 – 13, 2024)

Enjoy free live music from a variety of jazz performers starting Saturday evening, and throughout the day on Sunday at this festival. Extend your Outer Banks stay to enjoy jazz-themed events taking place throughout Duck, NC. Bring chairs, food, coolers, blankets, and pets. Food & drinks will be available to purchase. The Duck Jazz Festival will be held on October 12 – 13, 2024. Info: Townofduck.com.

North Carolina State Fair: Raleigh, NC (October 17 – 27, 2024)

The North Carolina State Fair is the largest annual event in the state and the largest 10-day agriculture event in the nation, annually drawing one million visitors. The fair is all about seeking out and showcasing the ﬁnest of North Carolina. Whether that be in a horse show, livestock show, culinary, handicraft or art competition, NC is proud of its talented people. The Fair hapens from October 17 – 27, 2024. Details: Ncagr.gov/divisions/ncstatefair.

TGA Sharad Purnima Garba: Morrisville, NC (October 18, 2024)

Triangle Gujarati Association presents fusion garba, with DJ Bennii, on Saturday October 18, 2024 beginning at 8pm at HSNC Main Hall, Morrisville, NC. Tickets range from $5 - $15. Details at Nctga.org or call 919-353-0550.

Global Beats: An Evening with the Arts: Raleigh, NC (October 18, 2024)

This event will bring together jazz artists, dance performers, local artisans and international community members for an evening to celebrate the cultures and traditions in the Triangle. It takes place on Friday, October 18, 2024, beginning at 6pm at Gregory Poole, Jr. All Faiths Chapel (At Dorothea Dix Park), 1030 Richardson Drive Raleigh, NC. Details: Internationalfocus.org/fall2024-global-social.

Carolina BalloonFest: Statesville, NC (October 18 – 20, 2024)

The 49th Annual Carolina BalloonFest is happening October 18-20, 2024. Hot Air Balloon Flights are scheduled twice daily; early morning & late afternoon. All ballooning activities (including static display, tethered rides and balloon ﬂights) and skydiving exhibition are weather-dependent. For more details, visit Carolinaballoonfest.com.

ICC Fall Food Festival: Apex, NC (October 19, 2024)

International Community Church presents annual fall food festival fundraiser. Enjoy food, games and fellowship. Free entry. It takes place on Saturday, October 19, 2024 from 10am – 3pm at 1402 E. William St., Apex, NC. Info at 919-2332900 or visit Icc-church.org.

BU Ganesh Prasad Vocal Concert: Charlotte, NC (October 20, 2024)

CMAC presents a vocal concert by BU Ganesh Prasad on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at 4pm, Gandhi Bhavan, Hindu Center, Charlotte, NC. He will be accompanied by Palghat Sridhar on violin and Karthik Narayanan on Mridangam. Free for CMAC members, $10 - $30 for others. Info: 704-9049454 or visit Cmaconline.org.

Procedures:

Mrs. Farhath Abdul Kareem M.D.

Next to Sangam Mart

Upcoming Events

Breast Cancer Hub Octoberfest 2024: Concord, NC (October 20, 2024)

Breast Cancer Hub (BCH) works to save lives by making impactful sustainable changes at grassroots level by bridging the gap globally with screening services, diagnosis, palliative care, and more. BCH services are free of cost and 100% of donations are driven towards the mission. BCH is hosting its annual fundraiser on Sunday, October 20, 2024. The event will feature food, festive ethnic clothing, games, henna, and many other vendors. For more details, visit Breastcancerhub.org.

Nava Vimshati Festival: Chapel Hill, NC (October 26, 2024)

Biketoberfest: Charlotte, NC (October 27, 2024) Sustain Charlotte’s Biketoberfest will be held on Sunday, October 27, 2024. It is a unique opportunity to explore the city on an epic, familyfriendly scavenger hunt as you walk, run, or bike along a designated route and collect goodies and raﬄe tickets along the way. Sustain Charlotte started Biketoberfest to inspire hundreds of people to get around Charlotte without driving. Since then, the adventure race has become one of their biggest fundraising events of the year. For details, visit: Sustaincharlotte.org/events/Biketoberfest.

Statesville Pumpkin Festival: November 2. 2024

Pumpkins dot the streets of downtown Statesville for this festival featuring a classic car show, two stages with live entertainment and plenty of activities for children. For full details, visit Statesvillepumpkinfest.com.

Laasya School of Dance presents the “Nava Vimshati Festival” on Saturday, October 26, 2024 beginning at 12:30pm. The event will feature dance compositions, guest performers, a presentation of the 8th classical dance form Sattriya, from Assam and a panel discussion for a holistic development of a dancer focusing on mental health, nutrition, parenting skills and theater. And a presentation of TRIYAM, a thematic presentation comprising of senior dancers of Laasya School. Over 200 dancers will perform during the festival. The venue is East Chapel Hill High School, 500 Weaver Dairy Rd., Chapel Hill, NC. Details: laasyanritya.com.

NC Dussehra Festival: Morrisville, NC (October 26, 2024)

Hindi Vikas mandal and HSNC present the Dussehra festival on Saturday, October 26, 2024 beginning at 4pm with a mela, followed by Ramleela at 6pm and Ravan Dahan at 8pm. Ramleela will be directed by Dr. Sudha Om Dhingra and Ravan Dahan by Naresh Giri. For more details, call 919656-5224 or 919-801-0672. Visit Hsnctemple.org.

Shubh Diwali Celebrations: Greensboro, NC (October 26 – November 2, 2024)

BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, 922 Gallimore Dairy Rd., High Point, NC presents Shubh Diwali celebrations. Saturday, October 26, 2024: Kids’ Diwali, 2pm onwards. Thursday, October 31, 2024: Diwali and Sharda Pujan, 6pm onwards. Saturday, November 2, 2024: Grand Annakut Darshan, 11am – 7pm. For more details, visit Baps.org.greensboro.

Verse & Vino: Charlotte, NC (November 7, 2024) Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation’s 11th annual Verse & Vino will take place on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at the Charlotte Convention Center. The fundraiser will feature bestselling authors such as Emiko Jean, Edward Lee, Essie Chambers, and Jessica Shattuck. Emceed by Sheri Lynch, the event aims to celebrate the joy of reading and the importance of libraries. In addition to the author line-up, this year’s event will debut a special bourbon cocktail. The Library Foundation hopes to raise $600,000 to support the library’s mission, including building a new Main Library and expanding its programs and collections. Info: Foundation.cmlibrary.org/events/verse-vino.

Keep up with all the events happening in our region with Saathee Magazine. Upcoming events include fall festivities, many garba and navaratri events, concerts, Diwali celebrations and much more. The best way to find them is in these pages or online at our regularly updated events section:

Saathee.com/events

Finding Solace in Solitude Finding Solace in Solitude

Mirror by Jennifer Allen

We enter solitude, in which also we lose loneliness…

True solitude is found in the wild places, where one is without human obligation.

One’s inner voices become audible.

One feels the attraction of one’s most intimate sources. In consequence, one responds more clearly to other lives. The more coherent one becomes within oneself as a creature, the more fully one enters into the communion of all creatures.

~ Wendell Berry

Our world, after many of us were forced into solitude for over a year, has been on a gradual rebound to how it was before. While most have embraced this return to

“normalcy,” others have chosen to remain isolated due to a variety of reasons. Some merely prefer the comfortable environment of their home office compared to a generic offsite one. Others have remained at home at the behest of their employer for budgetary reasons. And finally, some insist their solitude helps with overall concentration and efficiency.

Some companies still acquiesce to a full work-at-home or hybrid business model, but even this is in moderate decline. So many enterprises rely on physical interaction that workers cannot maintain a detached way of life for a prolonged period of time. Their employees are henceforth expected to acknowledge this and reinstate a general 40hour work week outside of the home.

Indeed… we learned the hard way during the pandemic that social interaction is crucial to our mental health. The Japanese have in recent years adopted the term, Hikikomori, Mirror, Mirror continued on page 90

Mirror,

PURCHASE & REFINANCE

Immigrants are Unsung Heroes of Global Trade and Value Creation Immigrants are Unsung Heroes of Global Trade and Value Creation

By Bedassa Tadesse and Roger White

In nearly every country that hosts foreign-born citizens, immigration emerges as a lightning rod for controversy. The economic realities of immigration, however, are far more complex than the negative sound bites suggest.

Far from being a burden, as critics claim, immigrants play pivotal roles in driving innovation, enhancing productivity and fostering economic growth in their adopted countries. They also elevate their adopted and origin countries’ standings in global value chains, contributing to economic resilience.

We are economists who study global trade and migration, and our recent work reveals that immigrants contribute far more to the economic fabric of nations than previously understood.

By facilitating what’s known as “trade in value added,” or TiVA, immigrants play a crucial role in helping countries specialize their production, move up the value chain and signiﬁcantly enhance trade sophistication.

Moving up the value chain means progressing from producing basic, low-value goods to more complex, higher-value products. This shift involves improving skills, technology and production techniques, allowing a country to capture more economic value and develop advanced industries.

So, what exactly is trade in value added, and why is it important?

In today’s global economy, products are rarely made entirely in one country. Instead, diﬀerent stages of production occur across multiple nations. TiVA measures each country’s contribution to a ﬁnal product, providing clearer insight into global value chains. For instance, while an iPhone may be assembled in China, its components come from various countries, each adding value.

Measuring the eﬀect on global value chains

Our study found that a 10% increase in immigrants from a particular country residing in one

of the 38 Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development member states leads to a 2.08% increase in the value added from their home country that becomes embedded in their host country’s exports to the world.

This eﬀect was strongest in the services sector, followed closely by agriculture and manufacturing.

To understand how this works, consider Indian software engineers in Silicon Valley. Their understanding of the U.S. tech industry and India’s IT sector can lead to partnerships. These partnerships lead to Indian ﬁrms providing specialized coding services for American tech giants. The result? Higher-value U.S. tech exports that incorporate Indian expertise. This perfectly illustrates how immigrants boost trade in value added.

Or take Chinese immigrants in Italy’s fashion industry. Their cultural knowledge might help Italian luxury brands tailor products for the Chinese market and connect Italian designers with highly skilled textile workers in China. The result? Italian fashion exports incorporate Chinese craftsmanship, elevating both countries’ global fashion value chain positions.

Our ﬁndings show that immigrants are pivotal bridges in global trade networks. They leverage their unique knowledge, skills and connections to strengthen economic bonds between nations. That’s in line with previous research showing the signiﬁcant role immigrants play in fostering bilateral trade.

Why immigration ma

ers in the global economy

In an era of increasing skepticism toward globalization and migration, understanding the positive economic impacts of immigration is crucial. Our current and previous research, and the ﬁndings from related studies, indicate that rather than “stealing jobs,” immigrants often create value and new economic opportunities that might not otherwise exist.

Immigrants bring diverse skills, knowledge and networks to their host countries that can enhance innovation, ﬁll labor shortages and open new market opportunities.

They often possess unique insights into their home country markets, helping host country ﬁrms navigate cultural nuances and business practices that might otherwise pose trade barriers.

For home countries, emigrants can serve as cultural ambassadors, creating awareness, showcasing products and services, and helping to integrate their homeland into global value chains. They may also contribute to knowledge transfer, investment ﬂows and business connections that boost their home and host countries’ economic development.

Moreover, immigrants’ ability to enhance trade in value added suggests they play a role in moving countries up the economic value chain. Rather than simply facilitating trade in raw materials or essential manufactured goods, immigrants appear to boost trade in more sophisticated, higher-value products and services. This is crucial for economic development, as countries that position themselves higher in global value chains tend to see bigger beneﬁts.

Rethinking immigration and trade policies

Our observations have important implications for both immigration and trade. For one, they suggest that restrictive immigration policies might have unintended consequences, hindering a country’s trade performance and position in global value chains. Countries that want to become more economically competitive might consider more open immigration policies.

What’s more, our research indicates that immigrants’ economic beneﬁts extend beyond the often-cited labormarket and ﬁscal impacts – in other words, having more workers who pay more taxes.

The evidence suggests policymakers should take a more holistic view of immigration’s economic eﬀects, considering its role in facilitating sophisticated international trade and value creation.

Our results also align with previous research highlighting the potential value of workforce diversity for businesses, particularly for ﬁrms engaged in international trade. Employees from diverse national backgrounds can bring valuable insights and connections that help their companies navigate global markets and value chains.

It’s worth noting that immigrants’ impact on trade in value added varies across countries and sectors. This suggests that rather than one-size-fits-all approaches, targeted policies might most effectively leverage immigration for economic benefit.

Maximizing immigration’s positive impacts on trade and value chains also requires supportive policies and institutions that allow immigrants to use their skills and networks fully. These might include programs to assist with economic integration, language training, credential recognition and support for immigrant entrepreneurship.

A new perspective on immigration

As the global economy continues to evolve, with value chains becoming ever more complex and interconnected, the role of immigrants as facilitators of trade and value creation is likely to grow even more signiﬁcant. Countries that recognize and leverage this potential stand to gain a competitive edge in the global marketplace.

Our research paints a picture of immigrants not as economic burdens but as valuable assets who enhance their host and home countries’ positions in the global economy. By making sophisticated trade linkages possible, and by boosting participation in global value chains, immigrants contribute to economic growth and development in ways that go far beyond conventional understanding.

As debates around immigration continue, it’s crucial to move beyond simplistic narratives and recognize the complex and often subtle ways that immigrants contribute to prosperity. In an interconnected world, immigrants aren’t just crossing borders – they are helping to weave the fabric of global trade and value creation.

Article courtesy of theconversation.com

Bedassa Tadesse is Professor of Economics, University of Minnesota Duluth

Roger White is Professor of Economics, Whittier College

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Upcoming Movie Releases

October 4

White Bird (Director: Marc Forster)

Cast: Ariella Glaser, Orlando Schwerdt, Gillian Anderson, and Helen Mirren

Joker – Folie à Deux (Director: Todd Phillips)

Cast: Joaquin Phoenix, Lady Gaga, Steve Coogan, and Brendan Gleeson

Hold Your Breath (Directors: Karrie Crouse & Will Joines)

Cast: Sarah Paulson, Annaleigh Ashford, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach

CTRL

(Director: Vikramaditya Motwane)

Cast: Ananya Panday, Vihaan Samat, and Sumukhi Suresh

Monster Summer (Director: David Henrie)

Cast: Mel Gibson, Mason Thames, and Lorraine Bracco

October 11

Jigra (Director: Vasan Bala)

Cast: Alia Bhatt and Vedang Raina

Saturday Night (Director: Jason Reitman)

Cast: Gabriel LaBelle, Cooper Hoﬀman, J K Simmons, and Willem Dafoe

Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video (Director: Raaj Shaandilyaa)

Cast: Rajkummar Rao and Triptii Dimri

Brothers (Director: Max Barbakow)

Cast: Josh Brolin, Peter Dinklage, Taylour Paige, Brendan Fraser, and Glenn Close

Badass Ravikumar (Director: Himesh Reshammiya)

Cast: Himesh Reshammiya, Prabhu Deva, and Sunny Leone

The Silent Hour (Director: Brad Anderson)

Cast: Joel Kinnaman, Mark Strong, Mekhi Phifer, and Sean James Sutton

The Apprentice (Director: Ali Abbasi)

Cast: Sebastian Stan, Jeremy Strong, Maria Bakalova, and Martin Donovan

October 18

Smile 2 (Director: Parker Finn)

Cast: Naomi Scott, Rosemarie DeWitt, and Peter Jacobson

The Line (Director: Ethan Berger)

Cast: Alex Wolﬀ, Scoot McNairy, and John Malkovich

Exhibiting Forgiveness (Director: Titus Kaphar)

Cast: André Holland, Andra Day, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, and John Earl Jelks

Woman of the Hour (Director: Anna Kenrick)

Cast: Anna Kendrick, Daniel Zovatto, and Kelley Jakle

October 25

Venom: The Last Dance (Director: Kelly Marcel)

Cast: Tom Hardy, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Rhys Ifans

Canary Black (Director: Pierre Morel)

Cast: Kate Beckinsale, Rupert Friend, and Ray Stevenson

November 1

Bhool Bhulayaa 3 (Director: Anees Bazmee)

Cast: Kartik Aaryan, Vidya Balan, Madhuri Dixit, and Triptii Dimri

Lucky Baskhar (Director: Venky Atluri)

Cast: Dulquer Salmaan and Meenakshi Chaudhary

Mechanic Rocky (Director: Ravi Teja Mullapudi)

Cast: Vishwak Sen, Meenakshi Chaudhary, and Shraddha Srinath

Saathee.com/movies has the latest info on where the movies are showing or streaming. All dates subject to change.

Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video

A newly married couple decide to record a video of their ﬁrst night together as a keepsake. The CD with the video gets stolen. What follows is a comedic journey as the couple scrambles to retrieve it before things get crazy. The ﬁlm, hits October 11, 2024, is directed by Raaj Shaandilyaa and stars Rajkummar Rao and Triptii Dimri.

Jigra

This emotional, action thriller, directed by Vasan Bala, tells the story of a series of unfortunate events leading to a sister setting out on a journey of pain, love and an unbending willpower that cannot be bent until her brother is free. Jigra stars Alia Bhatt, Vedang Raina, and Yuvraj Vijan. It opens on October 11, 2024.

Brothers

Two criminal twin brothers, one trying to reform, embark on a dangerous heist road trip. Facing troubles, gunﬁghts, and drama, they must reconcile their diﬀerences before they self destruct. Directed by Max Barbakow, Brothers stars Josh Brolin, Brendan Fraser, and Glen Close. It opens on October 18, 2024.

Badass Ravikumar

The sequel to the film Xpose finds Himesh Reshammiya doing a spin-off from his iconic character Ravi Kumar as an action musical entertainer, in which he is up against 10 wily villains. The movie stars and is directed by Himesh Reshammiya. Prabhu Deva and Sunny Leone are part of the cast. Look for it on October 11, 2024.

Here

The ﬁlm reunites the director, writer, and stars of Forrest Gump Here is about multiple families and a special place they inhabit. The story travels through time, capturing the human experience in its purest form. Robert Zemeckis directs Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Michelle Dockery, and Paul Bettany. The movie hits the screens on November 1, 2024.

Kensuke’s Kingdom

Young Michael, shipwrecked on a remote island, must adapt to life alone. Over time, he feels another presence, learning that this world is home to both unimaginable danger and beauty. A gripping animated adaptation of a beloved novel with Cillian Murphy and Sally Hawkings among the voice actors. Directed by Neil Boyle and Kirk Hendry, the movie opens on October 18, 2024.

Bhooth Bangla

Akshay Kumar announced his latest ﬁlm, Bhooth Bangla, on his 57th birthday. The actor will team up with director Priyadarshan after 4 years. The duo previously collaborated on the hits Hera Pheri, Garam Masala, and Bhool Bhulaiyaa. The new ﬁlm is expected to blend horror and comedy. A release date has not been announced.

12/31/24

Demanding Justice for Women Around the World

Namaskar, Y’all by Shyama Parui

It was a balmy evening in August and members of the local Indian diaspora were trickling in to gather by Charlotte’s Mecklenburg County courthouse. As the sun set, women, men and children lit candles, held posters, and chanted the slogan, “We want justice”.

An unimaginable crime had occurred in Kolkata, India sending shockwaves around the world. A medical resident at the R.G. Kar Medical College was raped and murdered while on a break from a long shift treating patients. Full details of the case are still unraveling but based on what is known, the victim was attacked to prevent her from exposing certain illegal operations. The demand for thorough investigation and arrest of the criminals was echoed all around India.

Doctors held a day of protest refusing to treat non-emergency cases. For Charlotte residents with Indian roots, the pain was felt by everyone. Participating in the protest march was an avenue for processing the intense emotions experienced and demonstrated solidarity with the protestors in India. Witnessing other Indian Americans assemble to express outrage, sorrow, as well as the urge to speak up reinforced the belief that humanity is still alive.

Namaskar continued on page 92

Path to a Fast-Track Career

My

Voice

by Jayant Pandya

For recent college graduates eager to advance quickly in their chosen ﬁelds, there are valuable suggestions to help navigate the challenges ahead. While the concept of a “glass ceiling” exists, it’s often more breakable than it appears.

Drawing on nearly four decades of experience in multinational corporations, from starting as an entrylevel engineer to retiring as a senior manager, I’ve learned a few key lessons that can accelerate career growth. It will be obvious to see that to succeed, in addition to the individual eﬀorts, you also need mentors, a professional network, nurturing employer and motivated staﬀ.

Here are the insights from my journey:

Academic Achievement: Performance Over Potential

Graduating from a reputable school with high grades can certainly open doors. I experienced this ﬁrsthand with my engineering degree from India and a graduate degree from U.C. Berkeley, which led to four job oﬀers. However, once I began working, I quickly realized that what truly mattered was my contribution, not just my potential. Your performance on the job will become the key to your success. The following paragraphs will further explain this.

Stay Fit: Prioritize Well-Being

Staying ﬁt in every sense of the word is crucial. Early in my career, I found myself overwhelmed while working as an engineering analyst in Foster Wheeler’s “Think Tank.” With a young family to support and no Plan B, I pushed myself to the brink working extra hours, learning how to use complex computer codes to solve engineering problems and taking refresher classes to get a state professional engineering license. Ultimately, I ended up in the hospital with high blood pressure. This experience taught me that maintaining good health had to be my top priority. After recovering, I made changes to my lifestyle and rarely called in sick for the rest of my career.

Track Career continued on page 96

Closer to Normal

Eye on the Markets

by Ketu Desai

August marked another step in the normalization process. CPI for the first time during this inflation fight came in with a 2-hander. Growth is settling into a steady state range between 2% and 2.5%. The yield curve is on the verge of normalizing positive.

September marked a major step in the normalization process. The Fed cut interest rates by 50bps in midSeptember. The process to get to a neutral interest rate is about to begin.

The pace at which we reach neutral will be determined by the labor market. Growth and employment data will now take precedent over inﬂation data. The Fed will join 17 other major central banks in cutting rates this year. This is a global easing cycle. As the market prices in cuts, the dollar has begun to weaken.

The dollar in recent weeks has broken signiﬁcant technical levels, as a weaker dollar tends to loosen ﬁnancial conditions. The takeaway is that these conditions with the Fed put will allow investors to take more risk.

With loose ﬁnancial conditions, markets are also likely to normalize. The deﬁning feature of the market rally since the start of 2023 has been its narrowness.

The market cap-weight S&P has more than doubled the performance of an equal-weight one. In the second quarter

alone, the outperformance was nearly seven percentage points, one of the largest on record. The outperformance is solely driven by large cap technology.

When we have had a similar outperformance, the market-cap weight S&P has underperformed equal- weight by 21.7% and 42.4% on average, over the next three and ﬁve years, respectively. The top ten stocks are 36% of the index, greater than the previous peak of 30% in 1963. We appear to be at an inﬂection point where mean reversion could occur. Historically, when the Fed changes policy, market leadership changes. The market-cap weight S&P 500 trades at a 34% valuation premium to equal-weight. The entire valuation premium is driven by the large cap tech names, which have a 50% valuation premium.

Many of these tech names face headwinds as they are on their way to spend hundreds of billions on AI related CapEx, with a return that is highly uncertain. The sentiment around this spend has changed quite signiﬁcantly in recent weeks. The market for the better part of a year gave these companies the beneﬁt of the doubt, now it is questioning whether the return will be worth the spend. The CEOs view falling behind in AI as an existential risk for their business. They have made it clear that they are more likely to overspend than under-spend, so if this spending continues and investors don’t know the return, it will keep a lid on valuation.

Reflections

Kismuth and the Way II by

Dipika Kohli

If you happen to be ﬁnding yourself in transition, here is a thought. How we choose our choices is partly based, apparently, on something experts call ‘decision by experience.’ So, in other words, your gut knows what to do, your heart of hearts has a strong hunch about what’s best. Reﬂecting on what you have already done clues you in about where you’d like to go in the future.

This is why every so often I think it’s important to look deeply, to recall things that have happened, and plan a little bit.

Time for me to start new things. What, exactly, does that look like? It’s anybody’s guess for now, but it could become quite obvious, if I just give myself a chance to glance backwards, to see where I am, and what was noteworthy, on earlier journeys.

Cooler weather here in Phnom Penh, like today’s soft rains, perhaps, are what set me oﬀ on this kind of introspection. Rain is nice. It is comforting, and encouraging, to have patters of the familiar. I’m reminded of other big, transitional points in life. One was Southwest Ireland. After three years of soaking in the truly grass-isalways greener pastures of West Cork, I felt it: time to go.

My handful of newspaper and graphic design gigs were not half bad, as they’d say over there. Yet, I felt myself questioning my place. Next thing you know, I was in Seattle.

Kismuth continued on page 86

My Memory of Lata Mangeshkar

On Saturday February 6, 2022, I was attending Maharashtra Mandal’s Sankranti event as a guest and talking proudly about Lata-ji’s memorable songs with the organizers and volunteers without even knowing that she had just died. I was telling them how much I loved her songs and respected her as goddess Saraswati though I don’t worship deities in general. After I came home, I was shocked to learn through the Internet that she had just died and I watched live broadcasts of her last rites with emotions but no tears.

At the Maharashtra Mandal program, I was telling people that a couple of months earlier, at Indian Idol program, I had gifted Lata-ji’s autographed photo to two young female contestants (one senior and the other junior) and had predicted before even judges announced their decision couple of hours later that these two will win ﬁrst prizes, since they had chosen to sing Lata-ji’s songs. That shows how much Lata-ji’s voice has been ingrained in my heart and soul since 1949 when I was ten years old. Even today I hum her old songs day and night and even in my dreams.

Lata-ji died at the ripe age of 92. She had retired for the last 20 years and remained out of public life. So, her death was not a shock. She has become a legend like many singers including Saigal, Raﬁ, Mukesh, and Kishore Kumar. While people give a lot of credit to Lata-ji for making ﬁlm songs popular, we forget to give equal credits to the composers like Shankar-Jaikishan, S.D. Burman, Naushad and Madan Mohan. Also, lyricists like Shailendra, Hasrat Jaipuri and Shakeel Badayuni’s contributions to the success of Lata-ji’s evergreen songs.

Lata Mangeshkar continued on page 94

My Voice by Girish Modi

Spot the Differences

See if you can spot the 15 diﬀerences between the original photo on top and modiﬁed one below Answers are on page 104

Anjana Patel RPH

Speaks fluently in Gujarati and Hindi

Have a trusted licensed pharmacist review your medications to help pick the right Medicare plan.

● Apply for extra help to lower prescription copays for brand and generic medications (based on certain financial eligibility)

● Supplements, prescription drug plans, and Medicare Advantage plans (Part C which includes dental, vision, and hearing benefit)

● Assistance for individuals that are new to Medicare, individuals looking to switch to Medicare Advantage, or will be turning 65.

The Soul of Indian Music and Dance

Adult Dance Student by Preethi Sriram

I feel very fortunate and blessed to have been introduced to the classical Indian arts and classical Indian music is some of the deepest music I have encountered. There are vast philosophies and yearnings tied to a song and dance repertoire. There is a complexity to the classical Indian arts that I feel takes exposure, time and understanding to appreciate.

Live concerts for me can be a very emotional experience. The mridangam drum brings out the longings of the heart, the violin threads in the listener to its vibrations, the ﬂute lures to the land of the enchanter, and the vocalist sings the emotions that are unknowingly buried deep within us.

On July 1, 2024, one of the dance performances that I had attended was for a show called Natya Aaradhana from the Gurukrupa School of Dance. A solo performance was performed on a song called “Viladhyu Idhu Nerama.”

While in the audience, when I heard the song was to be performed, I felt my heart skip a beat. The song is in Tamil

and the title translates “Is this the time to play.” I knew this would be moving for me to listen to.

The song is beseeching to Lord Muruga or Kartikeyan. The seeker is suﬀering and wishes to see the Lord. But the Lord Muruga, seemingly so teasing, keeps playing as we ache.

How much can that sentiment resonate in one’s daily life? For instance, what suﬀerings do we face that we feel tired, and we need reprieve?

When we yearn, and somehow our eﬀorts seem so challenging and insurmountable, how much can we keep getting back on the proverbial horse? How many times do we have to go through lessons that we seem to be repeating?

Then when we look at the news, along with national and global events, there seems to be no end to suﬀering.

There is climate change. There will be more destructive storms. Every year there seems to be records being broken with regards to heat or regards to hurricanes or ﬂoodings. The poor will be most impacted by the more extreme weather conditions.

Adult Dance Student continued on page 110

Medicare Choices We Have to Make When the Time Comes

Personal Finances by Mo Vidwans

We can enroll for Medicare health insurance when we reach the age of 65. It comes with a series of decisions that we must make along the way, for making the most of this healthcare coverage available to us. Getting it wrong can mean costly coverage gaps and occasionally lifetime late enrollment penalties. This happens because the rules can be often confusing, conﬂicting, and hard to follow.

The good news is that plenty of help is available from Medicare as well as many other volunteer organizations and the only thing that is needed is usually a head start from you, the applicant or future Medicare member. You also need to seriously burrow into the information that is available out there to make the right decision for yourself and your spouse. Below are some of the crossroads that you will come across and need to know how to navigate.

time to process your paperwork, especially if any information is missing or wrong and needs to be gathered or corrected.

Now the ﬁrst confusion arises if you are approaching 65 and are still planning to continue to work. Most Corporations will still cover you for the medical insurance, but they will make themselves the secondary insurer and will make Medicare the primary. Hence you still will end up going through the process of initiating the application for Medicare for yourself. It is best if you sit down with the right people where you work and gather the necessary information as to how they see it and how they wish you to act on it.

You should still go through the enrollment process even if your corporation keeps itself as primary (a rare case) or if you do not wish to start Medicare now (perhaps you are on your spouse’s insurance); that way you will avoid the penalty later, because you are starting Medicare later than the age of 65.

It is important that you are registered with Medicare at 65 even if you do not begin their coverage. This way the late penalty is avoided.

You are automatically enrolled in Part A and Part B (except in Puerto Rico) when you initiate your application. Medicare Part A covers hospitalization, skilled nursing care, some home health care and hospice beneﬁts. Part B covers Doctors and outpatient services. Most people need both Part A and Part B. But if you have qualifying health insurance from your own or spouse’s employer then, as I mentioned earlier, you can delay signing up for Part B without penalty.

Medicare does not initiate, generally, to entice/encourage you to sign up at your age of 65. If you have claimed your Social Security at least four months before your age of 65, then you get enrolled automatically into Medicare.

The reason for this, simply, is that Medicare and SSA work very closely together and if SSA has your information then Medicare also does, and they will urge you or your spouse to sign up.

If you have not started with SSA, then Medicare will not have your records, and they will not nudge you to sign up and you must remember to make it all happen. You usually get three months before and three months after your birthdate as a safe period to make your application for Medicare. I would start the process during the three months before and not wait until after your birthday has passed. The reason is very simple; give the Government agency enough

Once you apply and get qualified then Part A is free, but you must pay a monthly premium for Part B. For 2024 the starting premium per month per person is $174.70 if for a single person the Modified AGI is under $103,000 ($206,000 for married filing jointly); these numbers come from the 1040 tax return you filed.

It is important to know and worth noting that this premium continues to increase as the MAGI goes up and the max premium one person can end up paying is $594.00 per person. It happens because Congress passed laws in early 00s when the premiums were linked to the income, and it is generally known as IRMAA eﬀect.

This was the main reason I had devoted a whole article to this a few months ago, discussing how it behooves us to reduce the untaxed income before our age of 65.

Do we need part D prescription coverage? Medicare does not automatically cover prescription drugs, but you can get Part D prescription drug coverage, for a price, from private Medicare-approved insurers.

News Notes

India-USA Joint Military Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2024

The 20th edition of India-USA Joint Military Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2024 took place between September 9 – 22, 2024 at Foreign Training Node in Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, Rajasthan. The Yudh Abhyas exercise has been held annually since 2004, alternating between India and the USA.

This edition marked a signiﬁcant increase in the scope and complexity of the joint exercise in terms of troop strength and equipment. The Indian Army contingent comprising 600 personnel was represented by a battalion of the Rajput Regiment along with personnel from other arms and services. The US contingent comprising of similar strength was represented by the troops of 1-24 Battalion of the Alaska based 11th Airborne Division of the US Army.

The aim of the Joint Exercise is to enhance joint military capability of both sides to undertake counter terrorism operations in a sub conventional scenario under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. The exercise focused on operations in the semi-desert environment.

Tactical drills rehearsed during the exercise included joint response to a terrorist action, joint planning and combined ﬁeld training exercises that simulated real-world counter-terrorism missions.

The exercise enables both sides to share best practices in tactics, techniques and procedures of conducting joint operations. It facilitates developing inter-operability, bonhomie and camaraderie between the two armies. The joint exercise also enhances defense cooperation, further augmenting bilateral relations between the two friendly nations.

World Hindu Economic Forum 2024

The World Hindu Economic Forum (WHEF) will be held in Mumbai, from December 13-15, 2024. As a burgeoning financial hub with worldclass infrastructure, Mumbai provides an ideal setting for this gathering of Hindu business leaders. The WHEF aims to foster economic growth and prosperity within the Hindu community by facilitating knowledge sharing and collaboration. India’s rapidly expanding economy and its ascent to the position of the world’s third-largest economy will significantly contribute to the global landscape, elevating its visibility and influence worldwide. The venue is Jio World Convention Center, BKC Mumbai. Details: #whef2024, info@wheforum.org or wheforum.org.

State Dept Launch of the New Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

On September 16, 2024, the Department of State launched a new version of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Enroll or re-enroll in the new system at step.state.gov to continue receiving alerts. The new STEP platform allows you to use a login.gov account to customize your subscriptions and receive country-speciﬁc email alerts during the timeframe of your choice. You can enroll in multiple trips or locations at once and can modify your subscriptions or unenroll at any time. Enrolling in STEP makes it easier for the nearest U.S embassy or consulate to contact you during an emergency and send you safety and security alerts. All U.S. citizens traveling or living abroad are advised to enroll or reenroll to take advantage of new functionality. Actions to Take:

Visit step.state.gov to enroll in the updated STEP to set your preferences and continue receiving alerts and messages from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Encourage friends and family traveling or living internationally to enroll in STEP. Travelers may choose to sign up for alerts for individual trips or to receive alerts long-term for speciﬁc countries where they or their loved ones are visiting or residing. Follow the State Department’s Burea of Consular Aﬀairs on social media (@travelgov) as well as the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

ITServe’s Synergy 2024

The Tech Conference Will be Held in Las Vegas

“ITServe Alliance’s annual signature event, Synergy 2024 is a thrilling tech conference planned to be held at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas from October 29th and 30th, 2024,” Suresh Potluri, Director of Synergy 2024 announced. “At Synergy, you’ll get to network with peers, learn from experts, and discover new and exciting developments in the IT Industry. Don’t miss the chance to hear from inspiring speakers who will show us how to conquer the upcoming challenges and opportunities in information technology.”

According to the Synergy Organizing Team, the event is packed with varied sessions. “As you invest time to build your thought leadership, you can unwind from your daily stress at the breakout sessions. Synergy 2024 is a promising two-day event for the entire IT community in the US. The ﬂoor at the event has fun and entertainment packed for the participants. They can add more fun to their productive experience with an extended stay in Caesars Palace, Las Vegas.”

“Synergy continues to add prominent speakers, valuable sponsorships, and help grow a community network of industry professionals across the country,” said Amar Varada, ITServe’s Governing Board Chair. “Participants at Synergy 2024 will have a platform for IT company heads to come together to hear industry leaders speak, engage in discussions with lawmakers, participate in interactive breakout sessions, and deliberate on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities.”

Synergy 2024 will focus on developing strategic relationships with partner organizations, sponsors, and supporters, to work for a better technology environment by building greater understanding. Synergy 2024 will provide a platform for 3,000+ CXOs from hundreds of multi-national companies to come together to hear industry leaders speak, engage in discussions with lawmakers, participate in interactive breakout sessions, deliberate on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the world of IT Staﬃng and Technology.

Founded in 2010, ITServe Alliance is the largest association of Information Technology Services organizations functioning across the United States.

For more information, visit: Itserve.org.

Kathy Giles-Diaz Assumes Charge as U.S. Consul General in Kolkata

Kathy Giles-Diaz oﬃcially assumed the role of U.S. Consul General in Kolkata, eﬀective August 21, 2024. She takes over from Ms. Melinda Pavek, the outgoing Consul General, who departed on August 18, 2024.

In her capacity as Consul General, she will oversee U.S. diplomatic eﬀorts and foster U.S.-India relations across the Kolkata Consular District, which covers West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Sikkim, and the seven northeastern states of India.

“I am deeply honored to represent the United States in East and Northeast India. I look forward to meeting people and communities across the 11 states of the Kolkata Consular District and building upon the strong foundation of the U.S.-India partnership,” said Consul General Giles-Diaz.

BAPS Celebrates 50 Years of Satsang in North America

BAPS celebrates a signiﬁcant milestone—50 years of Satsang in North America. Since its humble beginnings in 1974, BAPS has been a beacon of community, spirituality, and service. From a single mandir in Flushing, NY, the organization has grown to include 116 mandirs across 33 U.S. states and ﬁve Canadian provinces, as well as Akshardham North America.

BAPS has enriched many lives through its initiatives, which include educational programs, humanitarian eﬀorts, and cultural activities. Its commitment to promoting peace, harmony, and social responsibility has made an impact not only within the Hindu community but across the broader North American landscape.

The 50th anniversary of the first mandir in North America is a testament to the dedication of volunteers and devotees whose efforts have contributed to this success. It also reflects the vision of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj and His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, whose tireless guidance and teachings of selfless service, faith, and unity have inspired this flourishing movement..

Embracing a New Chapter Lessons from Two Books

My Voice by Hiren Deliwala

Turning 50 has felt like stepping onto a new stage of life, where the choices I make now will deﬁne the years ahead. As I faced this milestone, I found inspiration in two impactful books: Die with Zero by Bill Perkins and Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman. These works challenged me to rethink how I spend my time and how I can enrich my life moving forward.

Retirement often falls into a familiar pattern: shopping, sleeping, watching TV, eating, and scrolling through the phone. This routine reflects what Burkeman describes in Four Thousand Weeks as the tendency to fill time with passive activities rather than actively engaging in experiences that bring lasting fulfillment. With approximately 4,000 weeks in a lifetime, it’s crucial to use this time wisely, avoiding mere routines that don’t enrich our lives.

Burkeman argues that many of us are caught in the “efficiency trap,” where we try to optimize every moment for productivity, often at the expense of joy and satisfaction. This trap leads us to fill our time with tasks and routines that might feel efficient but fail to provide real meaning or pleasure. This insight motivated me to reevaluate how I spend my time and to focus on activities that contribute to a richer, more fulfilling life.

Perkins’ Die with Zero complements this view by emphasizing the value of spending our time and resources on experiences rather than merely accumulating wealth. Perkins suggests that life is best lived by investing in moments that create lasting memories and joy, rather than deferring enjoyment until later. This principle encouraged me to shift my focus from saving for an uncertain future to living fully in the present.

Here’s how I’ve shifted my approach based on these insights:

1. Embracing New Hobbies: Instead of spending my free time on habitual activities like shopping or watching TV, I picked up the guitar. Perkins advocates for spending money and time on experiences that bring personal growth and joy. Learning to play has become a source of personal fulﬁllment and creativity. It’s an engaging way to spend my time that Embracing New Chapter continued on page 86

Community Focus

Kiran, signifying “Ray of light” in Hindi, started in the late 90s with a group of South Asian community members coming together to support domestic violence (DV) victims who did not feel seen or heard. They recognized the dire need to address the alarming rates of DV amongst a growing South Asian population in the Triangle. Mainstream DV agencies did not understand the cultural nuances that many immigrant victims and survivors experienced, especially those of South Asian descent. These members were able to meet survivors where they were at, safety plans alongside them, and account for the cultural factors that would play a role in their abuse.

In 1989, Congress declared October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Organizations and individuals unite across the country for a national eﬀort to uplift the needs, voices, and experiences of survivors.

What began as a safe community space for survivors grew to become a full-fledged non-profit in 2008. Kiran has expanded to serve the entire state of North Carolina. Although Kiran’s main physical office is located in Raleigh, there is an additional satellite office in Cary and a chapter in Charlotte.

Currently, Kiran is the only non-religious, multicultural, multi-lingual, community-based organization serving South Asian victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human traﬃcking in NC. The agency had a handful of clients in 2008, and that number has steadily climbed to 174 clients in 2023. The number of crises calls have also increased from 2039 in 2020 to 3746 calls in 2023.

The clients being served by Kiran encounter unique challenges that are often rooted in various factors related to their ethnicity, culture, religion, and immigrant status. South Asian victims experience language barriers, insecure immigrant status, cultural displacement, social isolation, and lack of knowledge about legal rights. These challenges along with pre-existing stigmas force the victims to stay silent and prevent them from seeking help.

Kiran works to alleviate many of these barriers by connecting South Asian survivors to resources that can heal and support them as they become ﬁnancially independent.

The culturally speciﬁc services of the agency include a 24hour crisis hotline, client advocacy, crisis counseling, safety planning, support groups, resources, secondary Family Services, secure housing, and interpretation assistance.

Kiran’s prevention services include outreach events across the state but predominantly in the Mecklenburg and Raleigh-Durham area. Such events are teen workshops, training, outreach to religious and cultural groups, and partnerships with law enforcement and universities. Whether it is through donations, volunteering, or participating in Kiran events, Kiran relies on the eﬀorts of the community. Throughout the year, Kiran hosts a few signature community events.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Kiran hopes to work alongside community members to initiate change in our community and expand our services.

For more details, visit Kiraninc.org.

Hindu Center Expansion

Leave a Lasting Memory on HC Wall. Sponsor Plates for $1001, $5,001, $10,001, $25,001 or more Expansion project update:

Work Completed: Grading, Parking Lot , foundation, stone work inside and outside.

Work Continues: Main Shikhar and electrical.

2024 MEMBERSHIP DRIVE

Annual Membership: $101, Students & Seniors $31 Become life member for $1001!

Upcoming Hindu Center Events & Activities:

Navratri: October 3rd, Thursday to October 11th, Friday

Dashera: October 12th, Saturday

Sharad Purnima: October 19th, Saturday

Karva Chauth / Diwali Expo: October 20th, Sunday

Children’s Garba: October 27th, Sunday

Dhan Teras: October 29th, Tuesday

Kali Chaudas: October 30th, Wednesday

Diwali / Mahavir Nirvana Day: October 31st, Thursday

Annakut/Govardhan Puja/New Year: November 2nd, Saturday

Karthik Poornima Deepotsavam: November 14th, Thursday

Tulsi Vivah: November 15th, Friday

Diwali Cultural Show: November 16th, Saturday

Diwali Dinner: November 23rd, Saturday

Election Day / General Body Meeting: December 8th, Sunday

HINDU

7400 City View Drive, Charlotte, NC 28212

704-535-3440

by Taige Shukla (IG: @whatsthe_chai)

Gajar (Carrot) Halwa

Happy Diwali Saathee family! It’s that time again when all our favorite snacks and sweets are being served all around. This is one of my favorite times of the year. Gajar ka Halwa, or carrot halwa, is a dessert that’s often served at special occasions or during holidays such as Diwali. The dish is also very popular when carrots are in season during the winter months in India, almost every household will have it prepared. While the cooking process takes a bit of time due to the milk having to fully incorporate, this is actually a very simple recipe to have on hand and a crowd favorite! Try serving it with ice cream for an even more delicious experience. Enjoy and Happy Diwali! Special thanks to: Charu Shukla (Amma)

Ingredients Directions

5 large carrots (about 2 cups shredded)

3 cups whole milk

½ cup milk powder (or khoya or mawa)

¼ cup ghee

¾ cup sugar

Pinch of cardamom powder

Optional: saffron, nuts for garnish

Servings: 4 - 5

Prep Time: 10 minutes / Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Start by adding shredded carrots and milk to a large pot and bring to a boil. Let simmer on medium heat until the milk has completely soaked in to the carrots. Stir occasionally to ensure the mixture does not stick to the bottom.

Optional: mix in a few strands of saffron for a more aromatic ﬂavor.

Once the milk has fully incorporated, add in sugar, cardamom powder, and half the ghee. Continue to stir for about 10 more minutes, until all liquid is soaked up.

Turn the heat down to low and stir in the remaining ghee. Then slowly mix in the milk powder until well incorporated. Continue to stir until the ghee begins to separate.

Finally, top with roasted nuts or saffron strands.

Serve at room temperature within 2 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week, be sure to warm it up before serving. Enjoy!

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v Financial Planning, Budgeting, Forecasting, Cash Flow & Business Financing

Community Focus

Festival of India Charlotte- 2024

The 28th annual Festival of India took place in Charlotte on September 14 and 15, 2024. Presented by the India Association of Charlotte, the two-day event took place at Belk Theater and on Tryon Street Uptown, on Saturday and at Ballantyne’s Backyard on Sunday.

The festival is one of the biggest events in Charlotte and celebrates India's rich heritage of artistic and cultural diversity. The fest presented many classical and contemporary dance performances along with food, vendors, arts and crafts.

On Sunday, along with dances, there was the unique live performance of “Rhapsody in Raag Jog” in partnership with the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra (CSO).

The fusion concert featured a groundbreaking work by composer Drew Zaremba.

This piece featured bansuri ﬂutist and saxophonist Anjan Shah along with a table player, guitarist and bassist.

For details about Festival of India, visit Indiafestival.iacofcarolinas.org.

of India.

Photos by Dola Roy, courtesy of Festival

AI vs. AI: The Battle Against Credit Card Fraud

There is no question that Artiﬁcial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized many industries, from ﬁnance and healthcare to e-commerce. But with these advancements, we’ve also seen a rise in AI-powered fraud and scams. These scams, which can mimic human behavior, create convincing phishing emails, and even clone voices, severely threaten individuals and organizations. This is especially true in credit card processing, where fraudsters use AI as a powerful tool for deception.

AI fraud and scams have signiﬁcantly risen, with 25% of global respondents experiencing AI voice-based scams. In 2022, fraud rates against contact centers increased by 40%, and Americans lost nearly $9 billion to fraud, marking an over 150% increase in just two years. Investment fraud alone accounted for losses of $3.82 billion, a 128% increase over 2021. In India, 83% of victims of AI voice scams reported monetary losses.

The extent of AI fraud and scams, speciﬁcally in credit card processing, is alarming. Recent data reveals over 389,000 reports of credit card fraud to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in 2021. On a global scale, credit card fraud resulted in over $32 billion in losses in the same year.

Double-Edged Sword Driving Both Innovation and Fraud

AI-driven scams have evolved in sophistication, leveraging advanced technologies to carry out fraudulent activities. One of the most common forms of AI-driven scams is phishing, where fraudsters use AI to generate convincing emails, tricking recipients into revealing their credit card information.

Another prevalent scam involves using AI to clone voices, known as vishing. In these scams, criminals impersonate trusted individuals over the phone, persuading victims to disclose sensitive information or carry out transactions that result in ﬁnancial loss.

ChatGPT users have ingeniously leveraged AI to bypass paywalls on news sites. They provide the chatbot with links to articles. Following its programming, the chatbot retrieves the text from the linked articles, even those behind paywalls, and presents it to the user. This workaround has proven eﬀective, demonstrating how AI can navigate digital barriers. As a result, the research and development company OpenAI suspended ChatGpt’s web browsing capabilities.

Rising Storm in AI Credit Card Frauds

These scams signiﬁcantly impact credit card processing. They lead to ﬁnancial losses for individuals and businesses and undermine trust in digital payment systems. The

increasing sophistication of these scams makes them harder to detect and prevent, posing a signiﬁcant challenge to individuals, businesses, and ﬁnancial institutions. As such, there is a pressing need for robust and practical solutions to combat AI fraud and scams in credit card processing.

Yet, the very technology that powers these scams also provides the solution. AI’s capacity to sift through vast data, spot patterns, and learn from past events makes it a powerful tool for detecting and stopping fraud. AI is becoming a strong ally in the fight against AI-driven fraud. When organizations integrate AI fraud detection tools with current systems, they can significantly improve their fraud detection and prevention, protecting their operations and customers. 63.6% of financial institutions using AI believe it can stop fraud before it even occurs.

Big Banks Turn to AI for Help

Several leading ﬁnancial institutions have successfully implemented AI to combat credit card fraud. Mastercard, for instance, uses its Decision Intelligence technology, an AI-driven system that analyzes cardholders’ historical shopping and spending habits to set a behavioral baseline. The system uses this baseline to compare each new transaction, actively detecting anomalies that might suggest fraud.

Similarly, SEB Bank uses AI to analyze customer behavior and identify anomalies that may indicate fraudulent activity, enabling the bank to detect and prevent fraudulent activities in real-time. JPMorgan Chase also employs AI to analyze customer data and identify potential fraud cases. The bank’s AI model has demonstrated high accuracy in detecting fraudulent activities, signiﬁcantly reducing the number of false positives.

AI-based fraud detection has advantages over traditional methods, especially in credit card processing. AI’s real-time monitoring, data integration, and continuous learning make it a strong ally in the ﬁght against credit card fraud. But remember, AI isn’t a standalone solution. It works best when used alongside traditional methods. Combining both strengths can create a robust defense against credit card fraud. As we look to the future, AI’s role in fraud detection will only grow, opening up new ways to secure our ﬁnancial systems and protect us from fraud.

Article courtesy of renascententerprises.com

Sunday

Election News and Upcoming Dates

Voter Registration in NC

The NC State Board of Elections oﬀers the following tips and reminders to voters and prospective voters. These reminders and tips also apply to voters in South Carolina and Georgia, and of course across the country, although some of the dates will be diﬀerent. Always check with your state’s secretary of state or election commission for dates and rules that apply to your location.

Check your registration. The State Board encourages all voters to check their voter registration. This will ensure that voters know if they need to make any updates to their registration in time to vote.

Requirements for registering to vote. To be eligible to register to vote, you must be a U.S. citizen; live in the county where you are registering for at least 30 days prior to Election Day; be at least 18 years old by the date of the general election; and not be serving a felony sentence, including any probation, post-release supervision, or parole.

Register to vote. Existing NCDMV customers who are eligible to vote can submit a voter registration application online through the NCDMV website. Individuals can also can ﬁll out and print a paper application and mail it or return it in person to their county board of elections.

Registration deadlines. See below for deadlines in Saathee’s area of coverage. If you miss that deadline, you may still register and vote or make changes to your registration in NC during the early voting period at any early voting site in your county.

You do not need to re-register if you are currently registered to vote. If you are already registered to vote, you do not need to re-register for any reason. You also do not have to turn in a new voter registration form every two years just to stay registered. The only time you need to re-register to vote is if you are no longer registered. If you are already registered to vote, and someone tries to convince you that you must re-register, that is not true. If you have questions about your registration, you should contact your county board of elections.

Updating a registration. Existing NCDMV customers can use the online registration service to update their address or party aﬃliation. If your name has changed, though, you’ll need to update that with a paper voter registration form. Any voter can ﬁll out a paper voter registration application and return it to their county board of elections.

Canceling registration. Any individual who is on the registration rolls but is not eligible to vote, or desires to no longer be registered, may cancel their registration by ﬁlling out the Cancellation of Voter Registration form and returning it to the county board of elections where they are registered. Near relatives of a deceased voter, or the

The Road to 2024 Election

personal representative of a deceased voter’s estate, may cancel a deceased voter’s registration by ﬁlling out the Notiﬁcation of Deceased Voter form, and submitting it to the deceased voter’s county board of elections.

North Carolina now requires a photo ID to vote.

Notable Dates:

October 15 – November 1, 2024: Early voting in Georgia

October 17 – November 2, 2024: Early voting in North Carolina

October 21 – November 2, 2024: Early voting in in South Carolina

November 5: Election Day 2024

Voter Registration Deadlines: North Carolina: October 11, 2024

South Carolina: October 5, 2024 Georgia: October 7, 2024

(Conﬁrm all dates with your State Board of Elections. We are not responsible for typographical errors).

State Election Board Websites: North Carolina: Ncsbe.gov South Carolina: Scvotes.gov

Georgia: Sos.ga.gov/state-election-board Virginia: Elections.virginia.gov

Useful Resources:

Ballotpedia is a non-partisan site that oﬀers lots of information for voters. They have just released their very useful Voter Toolkit that has lots of information and easy links for voters. The link: Ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia’s_Voter_Toolkit

Vote.Gov is a non-partisan information site. A team of USA.gov staﬀ and Presidential Innovation Fellows developed Vote.gov as a trustworthy online voter registration tool. Vote.gov directs Americans to registration rules for their own states.

The non-partisan FactCheck.org website monitors all forms of TV ads, print ads, debates, speeches, interviews and news releases and fact checks statements.

The Federal Elections Commision (FEC) was created to promote conﬁdence and participation in the democratic process. Find it at Fec.gov.

Kismuth continued from page 50

More newspapers, and more design gigs. Seasons came and went, and, when the time came to leave, it simply did. I went back to North Carolina. Seemed so easy to zigzag around, back then. If that’s the case, then why does moving around seem so daunting, now? Am I not the kind of person who just starts new things, sight unseen, to see what happens when I get there? Yes, I was.

Now, I know there are drawbacks to this way of going about things, unplanned and kinda ﬂighty; yet, I also know that when you think you have things ‘lined up’ you can be sorely disappointed. Pros and cons of both attitudes get weighed now, for me, as I design my next(s).

Irish rain, Seattle rain, and now, Cambodia’s monsoons. Closing my eyes, I try to picture it. What’s next?

For one, more English. I miss speaking in native English with native English speakers. Or so I say. But I’d like to think being in that situation would mean that I could fall into conversational exchanges of the sort I miss from the Ireland and US days. Me, hosting salons and roundtables, getting occasional gigs to buoy these eﬀorts in, go ﬁgure, newspapers and design.

Can I ﬁnd that, again? Can I locate a convivial atmosphere like pubs in Skibbereen (Tsar on Main Street comes to mind) or the cafes in Seattle (not Joe Bar, sadly, as I read somewhere it’d closed). Will I miss this Southeast Asia ‘everyday simple,’ though? I can blend in, quietly enough, and do my own thing, like compose these esoteric, philosophical meanders and send them to Saathee. Or will I be told to ‘Get serious, and get a job, Dipika. Writing is nice, and I like your writing, and it can be your forever on-theside hobby.’ Probably. But I’ll just go, ‘What?’

Because there’s a thing that happens at a certain stage of doing a thing you do because you can’t help doing it. You stop caring what other people think.

Time to go. Maybe it’ll be good to visit a few places. Check them out. Assess opportunities. Or is this wishful thinking, to assume I can slot right back in to a society I left, and not have any culture shock whatsoever? With acculturation, on my part, here, it will be an ‘adjustment,’ to say the least, to return to a trendy, ‘busy’ American life in some city, or even back in the Triangle, if that’s where next becomes. I don’t know.

I think there’s a lot of pressure on those of us who are born into a degree of privilege to make good on that and be something, something important, and to quote unquote succeed.

The story of my life is that I move around. Perhaps that’s all I need to remember. That when it is time, it’s time. It’s a given, that I will, no doubt, one day shift locations. More newspapers and design gigs? Conversation parties? Perhaps, perhaps. Let me investigate.

Dipika Kohli

is an author who is based in Phnom Penh. Discover her books at kismuth.com and other projects at dipikakohli.com.

Embracing New Chapter continued from page 68

provides a sense of achievement and joy far beyond the ﬂeeting satisfaction of browsing stores or screen time.

2. Prioritizing Health: I realized that spending hours on the phone or indulging in unhealthy eating habits weren’t contributing to a richer life. Burkeman’s book highlights how our time is often consumed by routines that don’t necessarily align with our deepest values. I adopted a more disciplined approach to ﬁtness and nutrition. This change not only improves my physical health but also boosts my overall well-being, making me more enthusiastic and energized for other activities.

3. Reconnecting with Family: Rather than defaulting to solitary activities or passive leisure, I made it a priority to visit my parents in India at least once. Perkins’ notion of making time for valuable experiences resonated with me here. This time together has been incredibly rewarding, reinforcing the importance of nurturing relationships and creating cherished memories with loved ones.

4. Reassessing Work: I took a step back from my work routine to evaluate its impact on my life. Burkeman’s idea of focusing on what truly matters led me to set clearer boundaries. By reducing work’s encroachment on my personal time, I’ve carved out more space for meaningful activities. This shift has improved my work-life balance, allowing me to engage more fully in pursuits that bring me joy.

5. Building Relationships with Friends: I’ve also made a conscious eﬀort to nurture my friendships. Burkeman emphasizes the importance of quality time over productivity, which inspired me to meet friends without a strict agenda. Prioritizing relaxed, genuine connections has deepened these relationships, providing lasting fulﬁllment and enriching my life in ways that mere routines cannot.

These changes are a direct response to the tendency to default to passive activities. By focusing on hobbies, health, relationships, and a balanced work-life approach, I’m creating a life that’s not just about ﬁlling time but about living it richly and meaningfully.

If you’re approaching a milestone or feeling stuck in a routine, consider how you might break away from the default patterns. Reﬂect on what activities truly bring you joy and fulﬁllment and take proactive steps to incorporate them into your life. Each week and weekend present an opportunity to craft a more engaging and enriched life, moving beyond mere routine and towards experiences that matter.

Hiren Deliwala currently serves as the Leader of Solutions Architecture for the Worldwide Public Sector at Amazon Web Services (AWS). He received his MBA from UNC Chapel Hill. Contact: hcdeliwala@gmail.com

Mirror,

which translates to “withdrawal to the inside” to refer to a person who has chosen to live in extreme isolation and conﬁnement from society.

This lifestyle choice often stems from severe ennui surrounding their place in the world. Unfortunately, it also bolsters the problem as these voluntary hermits force themselves to avoid potential positive feedback as well as negative.

This form of segregation is quite severe, and those who practice it do require a bit of a push to reintegrate back into the general population. On the ﬂipside of things, many of us still feel guilty for seeking a few moments of “alone time” especially when so many others depend on us. Caregivers of all sorts can be especially susceptible to this, as they have come to accept their role as one who must be available at any given time.

Fortunately, we’ve reached a better understanding and acceptance of mental health issues in recent years and one common way to assuage these issues is to allow yourself a few moments of solitude to reﬂect and refresh. Some accomplish this with meditation and others with some form of artistic expression.

One who becomes comfortable with solitude and enjoys their own company is a fundamental foundation of Philautia or self-love.

There is something to be said for accepting the silence which is at the core of us all. Within that silence, we’re free to create whatever we wish… whether it be a poem, painting, song, or whatever else strikes your fancy. And who knows? Finding your voice in solitude could ultimately become just as helpful to others as it can become something important to say to the world.

Also be mindful of others who request personal space. As Pawan Nair once said, “A person who enjoys solitude always gives others their space. No matter what kind of relationship it is, healthy space nourishes the connection.” In other words, acceptance of another person’s freedom often deepens the relationship as both parties do this without obligation.

As the old saying goes, “Absence makes the heart grow fonder,” and honestly most of us don’t require constant scrutiny.

As we dive headlong into the last few months of the year and the plethora of holidays which fall within them, remember that it’s alright to say no to a gathering if you’d rather stay at home and curl up with a good book or ﬁlm instead.

In the long run, you and your loved ones will be much happier when the time does come to face the world and express your own sense of self-worth.

Jennifer Allen works at Saathee and is also a Podcaster, Blogger, Photographer, Graphic Artist, Gamer, Martial Arts Practitioner, and an all around Pop Culture Geek. You can reach her at Saathee@Saathee.com

Even if you are not on any medications, you may need to get Part D when you enroll in Medicare to avoid a late enrollment penalty. Part D is unnecessary if you have other drug coverage that is at least as good as Part D.

This ‘creditable coverage’ does not even have to be from a current employer; it can also be from other approved retiree coverages. It is worth noting that if you do not sign up for Part D within two months of creditable coverage, you could incur a late enrollment penalty which can be substantial.

One of the biggest mistakes many make is assuming that Medicare will pay all their medical expenses. Absolutely not so. Regardless of how they get their medical coverage, there are always costs coming out of your pocket, such as monthly premiums (I mentioned this above), deductibles and coinsurance or co-pay per visit.

Here are some examples:

Part A has a hospital deductible of $1,556 (2022) before beneﬁts begin and you will owe part of the cost for inpatient hospitals stays longer than 60 days in a beneﬁt period and more after that.

Part B has deductibles of $233 (for 2022) and 20% of the Medicare approved amounts for the outpatient services.

Some retirees have additional health insurance to cover these costs. People who do not should consider buying Medicare supplemental health insurance; they are called Medigap policies.

There are generally two options available for getting Medicare coverage: the original program run by the Government, or a Medicare Advantage plan run through a private insurer. Everything we talked about here so far is for the original Medicare program.

In the Medicare Advantage plan your additional coverage comes from a private insurer, usually for a fee but many times it is either paid by your employer or they absorb it. The advantage plan must provide and cover the original Medicare and more such as, dental, vision and hearing care which is not covered by the original plan.

One big diﬀerence between the two plans is that some Advantage plans have their own provider networks, and you cannot get out of that except for emergencies.

There is no lack of information available on this subject (books, articles, pamphlets, lectures) and hence you will ﬁnd that if you need more information, it is readily available.

Luckily, plenty of free help is available too just for asking and I must say at the time of new enrollment (or change of plans) period during the last quarter of each year, there are many very knowledgeable people volunteer their time and energy to give you the right help for you to make the right decisions.

Mo Vidwans

is an independent, board certified financial planner. For details visit, VidwansFinancial.com, call 734-476-0579 or write to: mvfinancial@yahoo.com

From a young age, women in most parts of the world are cautioned about the dangers to their safety. As a teenager, I remember telling my parents that they were being overprotective and imagining things that could never happen. However, now that I am a parent my fears have grown exponentially.

Every time I hear the siren of an emergency vehicle, my heart skips a beat, and I check Life 360 to know where my family members are. Assaults against women are not isolated to a small region or class, it is a global issue. Gruesome incidents shake one’s faith in the government, judicial system and even God.

The disillusionment makes us question whether we are truly safe and if our lives matter to others. Women in many countries including the United States, are at greater danger of becoming victims of violent actions. On the heels of the R. G. Kar incident, many women in India have shared how unsafe hospitals are for women on their staﬀ. Doctors and nurses who work relentlessly don’t have a decent place to rest during their break.

They become targets of unwanted sexual advances by patients or other male staﬀ members. And these are just some examples of how medical professionals who have labored to gain their expertise are deprived of the respect they deserve.

Across professions and socio-economic strata, domestic violence has been continuing for centuries and hopes of eradicating this malaise are slim. At a systemic level, patriarchal societies have not granted equal rights to women although the level of disparity has changed. An unfortunate outcome of inequality is the implicit message sent to men that women are lower in status.

Young boys witnessing the mistreatment of women may mistakenly normalize it, and then incorporate disrespectful behaviors in their adulthood. Women too, often become resigned to their fate in this matter or choose not to complain about situations where they are discriminated against. It is fair to ask that women no matter where they are on this planet should be able to live without the constant fear of being violated by another human.

When criminality raises its ugly head, denial or inaction are not options. Simply pointing out the problem will not help either. Investing in resources that will help in reducing crime is imperative and long overdue. In places with high crimes against women, special units can be created with forces trained in tracking potential threats, tracing dangerous persons or groups, and swiftly catching the perpetrators. All law enforcement oﬃcers should be taught to express empathy and understanding towards victims reporting crimes such as rape, where the woman is often stigmatized.

It goes without saying that corruption should be punished but we all know that it is easier said than done. In India, an emergency rapid response system like the blue light towers in American universities, can be set up in public places such as railway stations and colleges.

I would love to see a multidisciplinary study that identiﬁes cultural norms, as well as practices and policies

that have made countries such as Norway and Finland among the safest places for women. An ideal outcome would be witnessing some of their best practices adopted in India.

The entertainment industry with its heavy inﬂuence on the masses can become a part of the solution by promoting the ideals of equality and respect for fellow human beings whether they are men or women. Sometimes when I watch movies churned out by Bollywood, I am infuriated by the way women are depicted and the way they are treated. Male characters are shown to pursue women persistently but in a way that disrespects the female character’s wishes and her personal space. She is expected to feel ﬂattered when a man happens to be infatuated and if she doesn’t, she is labeled as arrogant.

A handful of the newer ﬁlms appear to be progressive, but wouldn’t it be great to see the men ruling the silver screen portray true acts of valor that the common person can emulate. Popular culture can be a stimulus that instigates societal change for good.

At an individual level, one can educate and encourage children and all family members about a woman’s vulnerability. There is an urgent need to instill values that place an emphasis on being a good and kind human being before becoming a successful professional. Families should openly discuss concepts of consent, respecting boundaries, and what to do if those are violated. Clear communication of the family’s expectations is vital.

If we contemplate about the women in our lives, we will realize that our existence would be threatened even if one of them was missing. Let us rethink our priorities and as we worship the powerful Goddess Durga, we can collectively pledge to use our voice to seek justice until it is served.

Shyama Parui

is a long time North Carolina resident and an ardent writer. You can reach her at: shyamashree_parui@hotmail.com

Editor’s Desk continued from page 14

This evolves over time, of course, as we go through our lives. This exchange catches us up and helps focus our own thinking. The process of realization that we are all in the same boat, or a blue marble ﬂoating through space, as it were, keeps the world moving forward.

Politics and elections are a nasty business, made darker by the partisans and operatives. What we need is light.

Incidentally, this year, Diwali, the festival of lights, is ﬁve days before Election Day. Let the light of the season renew America’s direction. Participatory democracy is the light. Don’t sit it out. Keep this light lit. Make sure you are registered to vote, and then, of course, ﬁnd the time to cast your ballot during early voting or on that historic Tuesday in November.

Samir Shukla

is the Editor of Saathee Magazine Contact: Samir@Saathee.com Twitter: @ShuklaWrites Newsletter: ShuklaWrites.Substack.com

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Lata

continued from page 54

Lata Mangeshkar’s birthday on September 28 is a double celebration for me, because it also happens to be my son’s birthday. If I had a daughter instead of a son, I would have named her “Asha-Lata”, since I enjoy both sisters’ songs.

I had received Lata-ji’s letter in 1965 when I was in London, which I had shown to her and cherish it even today with other memorabilia. I met Lata-ji ﬁrst time at her ﬁrst concert in America in 1976 when she had come with Mukesh. While she was singing, I would close my eyes and listen to her live singing and could not believe she sounded just like the records I have been listening to.

I had gone to JFK to receive Lata-ji when she had come to America on vacation with her nephews and nieces in May 1980 upon request by the organizers who had planned her concert a couple of months later. At that time, I had chatted with her and met her ﬁancé Raj Singh Dungarpur, without knowing that he was chairman of Cricket Club of India. On our way to the hotel I had spoken very highly of Lata-ji’s and her songs and Raj Singh was so impressed that he told Lataji after we reached hotel that I am her “Bhakt”(great fan). Unfortunately, I did not attend her concert, since my employer had transferred me to Richland, Washington.

My picture with Lata-ji at the airport was taken by Raj Singh! At that time Lata-ji had commented after seeing my camera that she too likes to take pictures and had showed me her Pentax camera identical to mine, which had surprised me. I give away Lata-ji’s photo I had taken at that time to many singers as a souvenir and they appreciate it. I had visited Lata-ji’s house on Peddar Road in Mumbai when I had gone to India in December 1980 and wanted to show her pictures I had taken of her. Unfortunately, I had only met Usha and Hriday at that time, since Lata-ji had gone to Goa.

I will cherish my meetings with Lata-ji as long as I am alive.

Girish Modi

is 85-year-old retired engineer who is passionate about Indian music and classical dances. He donates money to various Indian organizations and provides free photo service.

Contact: girish39@yahoo.com.

Nearly all large cap tech is under some sort of regulatory or legal pressure. In August, Alphabet lost its antitrust case, which threatens its business model, as well as the billions it pays Apple. Regulatory and capital allocation concerns are likely to remain a headwind. Headwinds such as these make it harder to have high levels of growth, especially on their denominator.

Decelerating growth with a valuation premium and full positioning is a recipe for investors to reduce exposure. While some positioning has come oﬀ with the unwind of the Yen carry trade, positioning in large cap tech still remains high.

It seems unlikely that trades that have been built up for a decade or more have unwound that quickly. From a technical perspective, many of the large cap tech face heavy resistance not too far above where they trade now. With high positioning, high valuation, decelerating growth, regulatory and capital allocation concerns, it may be diﬃcult to break through this resistance.

As these tech companies spend hundreds of billions on developing AI models, consumers of AI can beneﬁt from its early stages. Walmart’s latest earnings highlighted the potential for AI.

Their CEO recently stated, “We’ve used multiple LLMs to accurately create or improve over 850,000,000 pieces of data in the catalog. Without the use of generative AI, this work would have required nearly 100X the current headcount to complete in the same amount of time”. Similarly, Klarna’s CEO said, “In H1 24, we saw ﬁrsthand the beneﬁts of adopting practical AI. Our AI assistant now performs the work of 700 employees, reducing average resolution time from 11 minutes to just 2, while maintaining the same customer satisfaction scores as human agents.”

It is becoming increasingly clear that AI is a “weight-loss drug” for corporations. We are likely in the early stages of the market rewarding the consumers of the technology (SPX493) rather than the producers of it (large cap tech). Goldman estimates that AI could lift productivity by 1.5% per year, driving margins up 4%.

Earnings growth reﬂected positively for the S&P 493 in the second quarter. They are expected to grow to doubledigits in 2025. While large cap tech faces margin pressure, S&P 493 is likely to expand. Margin improvement from lower ﬁnancing costs, AI, cheaper commodity and input costs will drive upside to earnings.

After a long period of doing nothing, the conditions are coming together for S&P 493. The combination of a weaker dollar, looser ﬁnancial conditions, rate cuts, Fed output, and earnings growth will likely lead to a more normal broadbased rally.

Looking forward, the market will focus on the election, the economic data, and the September Fed meeting.

Ketu Desai

is the principal of i-squared Wealth Management Inc. (www.isquaredwealth.com), an investment management firm based in New Jersey. ketu@isquaredwealth.com

Mangeshkar

Focus on Your Strengths: Know Core Competencies and Build Upon These

As an engineer, I climbed the ladder from junior to principal engineer, however, my manager once told me that future promotions would be diﬃcult without a doctorate. He suggested, after observing my strengths, that I consider the management path instead. He sent me to a management assessment center and then to a “charm school” for honing essential skills such as building interpersonal relations, communication and employee empowerment. It is therefore quite important to have good relations with your immediate manager who can observe your strengths and properly guide you in growth. This advice became a turning point in my career, setting the stage for accelerated progress as I transitioned into management.

Managers Are Paid to Take Risks: Spot and Pursue Opportunities

In the late 1970s, I was working for Westinghouse in Pittsburgh when my mentor offered me a risky but temporary assignment in Philadelphia. This had the potential to lead to greater opportunities. The task was to downsize the unionized engineering workforce with a history of violence from over 400 to just 40. By working closely with the union steward, HR manager and routine communication with the affected employees, we accomplished this without a single grievance being filed against company. The laid off employees were given retraining opportunities, assistance in job searches at local businesses along with receiving generous separation benefits. The company was spared lengthy and expensive litigations. It was truly a team effort. This success led to recognition at the corporate level and significantly advanced my career, illustrating that bold, calculated risks often lead to great rewards.

Mentor and Networking: Build Relationships

A mentor can be instrumental in your career. In the mid1980s, while working in Charlotte, I sought a more challenging role, aiming for a department manager position in Orlando. This was an executive management position reporting to a General Manager. Though I was the most qualified candidate, I was initially passed over due to staff discomfort. A year later, with the support of the plant manager— who was previously Corporate VP of Human Resources and remembered my work in Philadelphia—I secured the position, finally breaking the invisible glass ceiling. Your work attitude and performance can help you find a mentor who becomes your advocate and opens doors to new opportunities.

Measure Performance: Set Clear Goals

When I took over the Technical Information Management Department in Orlando, the performance was far from satisfactory. With a staﬀ of over 300 scattered across ﬁve locations, my manager gave me two years to turn things around. He warned me that if I failed to deliver, I should be prepared to leave.

My staﬀ and I started by analyzing existing performance, setting baselines, and establishing improvement goals. By implementing performance measures, employee training and

rewards for their contribution, and process improvements, we exceeded our goals. I was able to keep my job and on top of that awarded me company’s “Eagle Award” for excellence. Setting clear measures, assigning accountability and healthy competition among staﬀ are essential for success.

Think Strategically: Perseverance and Focus Pay Oﬀ

In the early 1990s, our company was losing its competitive edge due to excessive costs and poor quality. Deploying a Product Data Management (PDM) system would address these issues. It was a major initiative requiring digitizing thousands of documents, upgrading computer infrastructure, process reengineering and training over a thousand aﬀected employees and motivating them to accept changes. The project also required an investment of over ten million dollars. Again, my manager asked me to spearhead this project.

Most people were initially skeptical and thought that I was just selling the company a dream. They called it PDM, “Pandya’s Dream Machine”. We put together a dedicated and competent project team for implementation. It seemed like steering a giant oil tanker and took considerable eﬀorts to get moving. We did succeed by having a prototype system within a year and eventually rolling out the entire system in three years. The skeptics were proven wrong. They converted to enthusiastic promoters instead. Thinking strategically and staying focused on long-term goals can lead to signiﬁcant improvements.

Change Management: Handle Transitions with Care

Managing change effectively is the key to success. Our PDM project’s success was due to a carefully crafted implementation plan that followed the DEI sequence: Decide on the solution, Educate the affected people on the benefits, and then Implement change. The employees were getting current data on their upgraded PCs which were connected to a fast communication network, thereby greatly improving productivity. The project team constantly communicated with employees on upcoming changes preparing them to accept these. Many well-intentioned but poorly executed projects fail because managers follow DIE sequence by rushing to Implement changes without adequately Educating those affected. Handling transitions with care is crucial to ensuring smooth and successful change management.

Final Words: I realize that the business environment in 2024 is different from 1964 when I started my career. As a firstgeneration immigrant I faced several handicaps – language barrier, social barrier, financial limitations and prejudice against and acceptance of minorities in management. Today’s youth, on the other hand, comes from a privileged class, parental support and financial safety. Besides, thanks to the reputation earned by the first-generation immigrants and the Indians occupying CEO positions in many Fortune 500 companies, the road ahead is relatively smoother.

To sum up, think big - very big and success is sure to follow Jayant Pandya is 85 and retired in 2002. He and Jyotsna Pandya returned to Charlotte in 2017. He published his memoir "Engineering My Way to America" in 2014.

Contact: jayantpandya4@gmail.com.

Find the latest Job Openings, Matrimonials, Business Opportunities and more Classiﬁeds here.

Go to our regularly updated Events page here

Editor’s Desk: Read the essay “Generative Fakeness” here. It’s about keeping it real.

Watch a selection of our curated videos here:

Go to our Movies Page Here: Find all the latest releases coming up as well as ﬁlms opening this week.

Go to our Recipes Page Here: Lots of delicious recipes found in Saathee are gathered here.

Tune Your Brain

Solve these brain teasers - Solutions on Page 110

PUZZLES & TOONS

Answers on page 104

Puzzles 4 Kids Answers on page 110

Key Word Search

Fill in blanks of these clues, then take the ﬁrst letter of each word and unscramble them to ﬁnd this month’s Key Word.

October, November, ___ .

First Monday in September ___ Day.

First President, George ___. ___ foil (metallic sheets). ___ skating rink (wintertime).

Country where yoga originated ___.

Answers on page 104

Hello Readers

We are adding new puzzles and cartoons to these pages over the next few issues. We welcome comments and suggestions. Send your thoughts to Samir@Saathee.com

Magic Maze Answers on page 110

Go Figure! Answers on page 104

Festivals & Holidays Puzzle Solutions

OCTOBER 2024

Oct. 1 - World Vegetarian Day

Oct. 2 - Gandhi Jayanti

Oct. 2 - Rosh Hashana

Oct. 2 - Darsh Amas (No Moon)

Oct. 3 - Navratri Begins

Oct. 5 - World Teachers Day

Oct. 10 - World Mental Health Day

Oct. 11 - Durga Ashtami

Oct. 11 - Yom Kippur

Oct. 12 - Dussehra

Oct. 13 - Madhvacharya Jayanti

Oct. 14 - Columbus Day / Indigenous People’s Day

Oct. 14 - Thanksgiving Day (Canada)

Oct. 16 - Boss’ Day

Oct. 16 - Sukkot Begins

Oct. 17 - Ashwina Purnima (Full Moon)

Oct. 17 - Meerabai Jayanti

Oct. 17 - Valmiki Jayanti

Oct. 19 - Sweetest Day

Oct. 20 - Karwa Chauth

Oct. 23 - Sukkot Ends

Oct. 24 - Shemini Atzeret

Oct. 25 - Simchat Torah

Oct. 31 - Halloween / Samhain

Oct. 31 - Narak Chaturdashi

Oct. 31 - Diwali / Deepavali

9. Removed pillar

10. Added butterfly

11. Man added

12. Cow added

Color changed

Removed gate line

Added tree leaves

8. Pillar changed color

13. Removed gate

14. Added instruments

15. Wall color changed

Ashwani Dalal (Broker in Charge)

252-548-9770

Licensed in NC: 283364 / SC: 94742

Balakrishna Gangireddy (PB) 916-612-7065

Licensed in NC: 350503 / SC: 135986

Jasbir Singh (PB) 224-703-0274

Licensed in NC: 352415

Vidyullatha Uppuluri (Broker) 337-292-7872

Licensed in NC: 336359 / SC: 129720

Kamesh Mani (PB) 704-450-7311

Licensed in NC: 353908

Astroscope OCTOBER 2024

Aries

(March 21 – April 20)

After a positive beginning, things will take a downward turn by the end of the month. Unexpected issues will emerge, bolstered by lack of clarity, which could create further confusion. Avoid any financial commitments, although your savings can keep you afloat during this difficult phase. Your partner can potentially provide some stress relief, along with additional support from family.

Taurus

(April 21 – May 20)

This is a good time to enjoy family life. Your partner could achieve grand success this month. You should be able to control any situation with conﬁdence. It is advisable to monitor your diet, as unexpected weight gain is possible. Keep away from water and avoid driving. Otherwise, be prepared to spend money and relish life as this is a perfect period for a dream vacation.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Life will move fast during the ﬁrst half of the month. A new venture could prove fruitful, although you may not experience any short term ﬁnancial gains. Savor a boost in both your social and love life. Minor disputes with extended family are also possible during the last week of the month. Don’t ignore your kids’ creative activities. This is also a good time for a long-distance journey.

Cancer

(June 21 – July 22)

Take time to slow down and enjoy the month. An easy ﬂow of income and good health can create an excellent environment for relaxing family activities. A heavier workload could be unsatisfying, so go ahead and take it easy. There may be a minor setback during the second week of the month. An aggressive attitude can only add stress, so be sure to avoid any disputes with your partner.

Leo

(July 23 – August 22)

An unexpectedly heavy workload during the second half of the month may prove disappointing. Avoid any major decisions as your friends or co-workers may not be able to assist. Your partner could escalate your situation by creating more problems, but you could receive good news regarding your career. An easy ﬂow of income will provide some relief. Remain patient and avoid aggression.

Virgo (August 23 – September 21)

This month should move at a steady pace. Uncertainty at work could affect your confidence. Keep working hard to achieve the desired results and avoid temptation to rush for success. Unexpected financial returns are possible during the last week. A significant improvement in your health should also help improve your overall mood.

Libra (September 22 – October 20)

Life may start moving forward as unexpected ﬁnancial gain or a new opportunity could be on the horizon. Be sure to embrace it with self-conﬁdence and not rely on any support. Try to curb your expenses and remain focused on earning extra revenue. This is also a favorable time for love and romance. Try to avoid egoistical comments as they could put you in hot water. Also be mindful of your overall health.

Scorpio (October 21 – November 20)

A very slow month is shaping up. A quarrel with friends or associates could disturb your peace of mind, so be mindful of your speech to maintain relations. You should see a steady ﬂow of income. This is also a good time to enjoy nature and spend money on spiritual activities. You may enjoy some extended travel during the second half of the month.

Sagittarius (November 21 – December 21)

You may see mixed results this month. You will shufﬂe between a busy work schedule and time with family. The ﬁrst half of the month could bring new opportunities, but they can disappear by the second. Any disruptive decisions must be curbed. Listen to your partner before taking on any new projects. Avoid friction with your kids.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 21)

Family issues could take center stage this month. Remain patient and wait for the right moment to make important decisions. Your kids may provide some stress relief. Egoistical comments could create problems at work. A major dispute with your partner is also possible during the last week of the month. Your ﬁnances will remain steady, as well.

Aquarius

(January 22 – February 18)

A lapse in judgement combined with stubbornness may cause excess stress as misunderstandings with family could occur this month. However, you could enjoy positive changes at work. Drive carefully during the last week of the month. This is a good time for students. A new avenue of income should also come your way, and successful business-related travel is possible.

Pisces

(February 19 – March 20)

You will prove that love is blind this month. However, you may also make questionable decisions without realizing them with negative results coming to the forefront by the last week of the month. Your sibling and friends can provide protection. Minor health issues could also slow you down. A sudden disagreement with family may create further anxiety during the second half of the month.

CLASSIFIEDS

Business Opportunities

Discover a Low Investment Business Opportunity in the financial industry that allows you to work from home, part-time or fulltime, and achieve excellent income potential. Call 908-590-4414 to set up an appointment for more details.

Looking

for Work

22 years of Independent Motel experience. Willing to travel to any location. Call or text 505-401-5842.

Partnership / Purchase Opportunity

Free standing Convenience Store with gaming and lotto in Georgia, 31061. Monthly revenue $20-$25 K. Call 301-852-1916.

Find your Dream Business

Call for Commercial Lots and Businesses for Sale in the Carolinas. 704-649-9095.

Adeia Services

Home / Business Cleaning / Sanitizing Franchise $699. + Royalties. Financing $99 down, $30 / month for 24 months. For details contact J. Edward Wolfe at jedwardwolfe46@gmail.com.

C-store w/ Property for Sale / Lease in Denmark, SC along with displays for fresh produce & frozen items. Gross income $55K / Lotto $25K / month. Daily income not included. Call 904-307-4770.

Employment Opportunities

Front Desk & Laundry Help needed for Franchise Hotel in Concord, NC. Accommodations provided. Call 704772-5554.

Manager Wanted (single or couple) for 30-room Motel in Dobson, NC. Good computer skills & fluent English preferred. Accommodations provided. Call 336-244-4199.

Looking for Babysitter for 17 month old toddler with reliable transportation near Concord, NC area. Please contact 214-404-2763.

Gas Station / C-store Help Needed at stores near Huntersville & Northlake areas. Must speak English. Family friendly oriented people. Please call 704402-4661.

Front Desk Manager & Housekeeping Couple Wanted for franchise hotel in Columbia, SC. Accommodations provided. Fluent English required. Text / call 704-701-9975.

Hotel Help Wanted

Front Desk / Manager, Night Auditor & Housekeeper (Single/Couple) for franchise hotels in Charlotte (Airport Area) & Winston-Salem (Near Hanes Mall). Accommodations provided. Call 704-626-4849 between 4-8pm.

Live-In Nanny Needed asap in Baltimore, MD area. Great pay and benefits. Please call 443-851-3699.

Now Hiring Couple

to run a Small Motel in Richland, NC. Accommodations provided. Call 910-5454201 for details.

Gas Station/Liquor Store Seeks Help near Columbia, SC. Need 2 person fulltime, single or couple. Legal status required. Accommodations can be provided. Call / text 803-900-5357.

Live-in Help Wanted to cook and help female Parkinson's patient in a in Fort Mill, SC condominium. Indian origin preferred. Call 803-487-0079.

Cashier Wanted for Convenience Store near Highland Creek, University City area of Charlotte. Experience required. Attractive aalary! Please text or call 704-904-5613.

Elderly Help Couple Needed in Rockingham, NC Accommodations provided. Call 910-995-1707.

Autobody Shop Hiring Now! Auto Body technician needed in Charlotte / Mooresville, NC. Great pay! Willing to sponsor a Visa for well qualified applicant. Call 704-663-0032 or email: VS@ColorMasterPremium.com.

Hotel Help Wanted

Front Desk / Manager, Night Auditor & Housekeeper (Single / Couple) for franchise hotels in Charlotte, Gastonia, High Point, NC & Columbia, SC. Accommodations provided. Call 704-460-0379 between 6-9pm.

Manager / Front Desk needed for a Franchise Hotel in Rock Hill, SC. Accommodations Provided. Please call 803-517-4662.

Gas Station Seeking Help in Rock Hill, SC. Single or couple. Good pay for an experienced person! No accommodations. Call 803-659-3330.

Hotel Help Wanted

Two Front Desk Agents needed (students can apply for cash pay) + Laundry Couple for Motel in Greenville / Simpsonville, SC. Accommodations provided. Call or text 828-386-5184.

Cashier Wanted for Convenience Store near Kannapolis, NC. Very attractive salary! Accommodations provided. Text or Call 704-701-9482.

Matrimonial / Seeking Companion

Seeking Groom

32 year-old US Citizen, Hindu, NonVegetarian, never married, well educated Family Physician Doctor working in Durham, NC. Look for a good looking Doctor/Dentist US citizen groom, Hindu, Non- Vegetarian, Never married. Text Ashok at 919-423-2937 with details.

Seeking Bride

US citizen, Hindu, business graduate, 33 currently working in a federal position in Raleigh, NC. Looking for educated bride. Call 336-683-7631 or cstore1947@yahoo.com.

Well-educated MD Internist / Hospitalist (Non-Interventional Cardio Fellowship) Man. 35 year-old, never married, well-settled, and good-looking. Vegetarian, Spiritual, Gujarati, only child, US Citizen. Looking for Girl, preferably Medical professional but will accept any higher education. Text Shailesh with details 260-602-3354.

Sell Fast!

Place a classified ad here and on Saathee.com for $25. visit: saathee.com/classifieds or email saathee@saathee.com or call and ask for Jennifer: 704-527-7570.

Room for Rent

In Rock Hill, SC with separate bathroom and common kitchen. $1000 per month. Includes utilities & internet. Good offer for 2 people! Call 803-659-3330.

Saathee Classified ads

Sell your business, or property. Find the perfect job, hire the perfect employee. Get great adversting results with Saathee Call 704-527-7570 or email saathee@saathee.com.

Signs: billboards, banners, stickers and more for you or your business. Full service. Call Srinivas for quote or details: 910434-3334.

Priest:

Ganesh, Shiv, Lakshmi, Randal, Paduka Pujans; Wedding, Baby Shower, Housewarming, Satyanaryan Katha, Mundan & Yagnopavit; Funeral, Navchandi, Tarpan, Havans, etc. Online puja also available. Call Rajendra Bhatt 732-841-7832.

Affordable Wedding Photography

20 years of experience in Indian wedding photography. Specializing in film & digital photos. Engagement, Wedding, and Receptions. Contact Vivek: email: vivekweddingmemories@gmail.com or call 347-321-4746.

Gujarati Priest

Devendra Dave Independent priest. Ganesh, Randal, Navratri, Diwali's Laxmi & Sharda Pujas, Satyanarayan Katha, Weddings, Vastu, Baby Shower, Funeral Seva. Call Daveji 704-780-3563. God Blessings to All.

Neeta's Beauty Parlor

Open 7 days a week. Full service. Located near the Hindu Center of Charlotte. For more details on our services and to make and appointment please call 704-968-0270.

Travel Passion

International & Domestic Air tickets. We process India Visa, OCI, Indian Passport Renewal, Hotel bookings & Tour packages. Call 509-550-9076 or 509-550-9034 or Email travelpassion24@gmail.com.

Pari Beauty in Matthews

Threading, Waxing, Facials, Massage for newborn and mom & other services. 35 years of experience. Special Deals & Great Service. Call: 704-846-7912.

Priest Available for Shree Satya narayan katha, Shanti hawan, Vastu shanty, Weddings, Baby shower, Bhumi pujan, Mata ki chowki pujan, Funeral, all types of karmakand. Please call Viral Bhatt 704-438-6334.

Make-Up Artist

Weddings, anniversaries, special occasions, editorial makeup. For rates, availability, or to make an appointment Email mithi.shukla99@gmail.com or yeshajani@yahoo.com.

Adult Dance Student continued from page 58

There has been disturbing news about more illnesses that are to come. As societies are cutting down natural landscapes for urbanization, there is more risk for exposure to diseases that can impact humans.

There are those having trouble paying healthcare bills. Healthcare seems more now as “Health business” than Healthcare. We are in a time where magniﬁcent strides are being made via various therapies, yet there are people who may never be able to aﬀord or have access to those.

And of course, we see much conﬂict and strife in the world. We are shown images from around the world of mass misery and distress.

Thus, the emotion of “is this time to play” comes in.

The dancer depicts the beautiful peacock of Lord Muruga, which is a stark contrast to the sorrowfulness in the composition.

How can Lord Muruga play and dance under these circumstances? Where is the compassion of the Lord?

Similar questions are embedded in diﬀerent stories in Sanatana Dharma. For instance, in the Ramayana, why is Rama the way he is?

From Mahabharata, why is there war? The epic goes through the various characters’ egos, hubris, and flaws. Why did Yudhistir roll the dice? Was he not the epitome of righteousness? Is there a way to avoid conflict and war? Who are brothers? Are they five? Are they six? Can it include a brother who is Hanuman?

Who are family? Which side is right? Who is wrong? What would we have done if we were in their positions? Of course, we would have done the right thing and that is we would have avoided all conﬂict. Been very understanding.

Or so we say.

But here we all are. Many are still on this Wheel of Action.

Lord Muruga continues to play. Is this a time for playing?

There are so many questions. We wish to know so much, yet the more we want to know, the more there is to know.

In a beautiful story, Lord Brahma was teaching Sage Narada, and he told him that even he, who is an expert in spiritual knowledge, cannot fully comprehend the divine.

We are human, and it is okay to not have all the answers. Sometimes, the best thing that we can do in these times is sing to the Lord until we are ﬁlled with devotion.

The Indian Classical Arts is a great medium for this practice as well as for the Rasika to be immersed in this.

This series of articles is about the journey and unique insights of an adult dance student learning classical Indian dance and the experiences and perspective of taking classical Indian dance as both an American and an Indian.

Preethi Sriram

is a classical dance enthusiast and lifelong learner of dance. Contact: SriramPreethi@hotmail.com

Magic Maze & Puzzles4Kids answers pgs 102 -103

Kalgi Trivedi, CPA

Kirti Shah, CPA, Chartered Accountant (India)

Advertisers

Index for Charlotte,

South Carolina & Atlanta Region

A2Z Cash & Carry Wholesale................................37

Anand, Versha (Real Estate) .................................99

Apex Distribution (Items for C-Stores / Smoke Shops)..7

Bala Sure (Broker / Realtor, NC & SC)..................71

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (Charlotte)..16-17

Bashyam Global LLP - Immigration Law............114

Bhindi Jewelers ...................................................2

Blooming Buds...................................................47

Blooming Smiles Pediatric Dentistry.....................75

Blumenthal Performing Arts (Events)....................24

Brijal Shah (Keller Williams - Real Estate).............65

British International School of Charlotte................9

Brown Immigration Law (Rishi Oza, Partner).......52

Carolina Asthma & Allergy Center.........................67

Carolina Law Group ...........................................48

Carolina Medical Associates..................................61

Carolina Medical Partners...................................33

Carolinas Pediatrics ............................................65

CaroMont Medical Group (Bankim Patel MD)......75

Charlotte Chess Center ........................................10

Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat .........................88

Chiro-Carolina ...............................................89

Color Master Collision Center..............................83

Concha, David (Immigration Attorney).................93

Concord Children's Clinic ..................................59

Copper Restaurant (Charlotte).............................81

Countywide Commercial (Pavement Solutions)....105

Desai & Mehta CPAs PLLC .................................89

DJ Lalit (Lalit Hemnani).....................................39

DJ Pink Lips.......................................................51

Dosa n' More (Fort Mill, SC)................................25

DRC Photography (Video, Drone, Live Streaming)51

Eesha Realty, LLC...............................................41

Experior Financial Services ...............................101

FOMO Boutique - Charlotte................................21

Founders Insurance Agency - Anjana Patel.............57

Geological Resources, Inc.....................................51

Global Mall / Legacy Jewels ...............................115

H2 Laser & Skin..................................................31

Harish Bhasin (Independent Insurance Agent)........21

Health Markets (Medicare, Health, Life, Supplemental)113

Hindu Center of Charlotte (Events).................76-79

Hitch Hiker's Guide to College.............................21

Hitesh Rathod (Real Estate).................................31

HRA - C-Store Connect ......................................53

Hum Sub Diwali (Cary, NC)...................................4

Insurance - Tushar Barot, Supreme Insurance Serv...45

Insurance Shopping (Sonal Patel - IndependentAgent).43

JVC Realty (Balaji Tatineni Realtor / Broker).........69

KB Zaveree (Atlanta)...........................................19

Khanna & Sons Jewelers.........................................5

Kiran, Inc.............................................................6

Maadhurya Photography.....................................45

Maharani Indian Cuisine (Charlotte).....................27

Makeup Artist (Mithi Arts)...................................59

Malak Jewelers....................................................35

Malani Jewelers.................................................116

Malaya Kitchen...................................................67

Malleswar Varikuti Realtor (Realty One Group).....27

Mathur, Gitanjali (Allen Tate Realtors)..................29

Maxim Tours.......................................................49

Meenakshi Creations LLC....................................15

Meghana (The Vedic Power Astrologer)...............107

Mehta & McConnell, PLLC (Injury Lawyers).........91

Mint MedSpa & Laser Studio...............................33

Neeta's Beauty Parlor..........................................31

North American Bancard ....................................11

NRS PAY Credit Card Processing.........................97

NSD Tax & Accounting Services............................55

Om Tours & Travel..............................................111

One 2 Entertainment...........................................37

Patel & Samatova, Law........................................39

Patel Realty LLC (Vaibhav (Monty) Patel)............59

Patel, Mrugesh (Law Offices)................................99

Patel, Tony (Real Estate)....................................101

Pathak, Atul (Real Estate)....................................47

Persis Indian Grill (Fort Mill, SC)........................25

Pramukh Mandapam...........................................49

Publix................................................................13

Queen City Smiles (Dr. Kanupriya Tewari).............61

Ram Mortgage (Mayank Patel)............................31

Ruby Realty LLC (Neil Pathak)............................63

Rug & Home.........................................................3

Saffron Restaurant and Catering...........................29

Satya Realty........................................................32

SFC CPA PLLC (Saad Chaudhary, CPA)...............47

Shah & Associates, CPA, PLLC.............................39

Shah & Trivedi CPA, PLLC.................................111

Shah, Anish (Real Estate)................................72-73

Sheraton Chapel Hill (ATMA Hotel Group)..........38

Shisha Café - Hookah Lounge - Charlotte..............85

Signs (Banners, Billboards, etc. Srinivasan)............27

Singas Famous Pizza...........................................60

Sona Realty (Venkat Suryadevara)........................42

SP Orthodontics.................................................83

Technone LLC (Securtiy Systems).......................111

The Blue Taj........................................................81

The Ivy Edge, LLC (College Admissions)...............37

Travel Passion.....................................................47

Union Family Eye Associates (Dr. Keshav Bhat)......67

Uniworld Travel..................................................45

USPS.................................................................93

VAS Realty LLC (Ashwani Dalal).......................105

Vema Mortgage LLC (Chirag Rachhadia)......27 & 65

Venu Parepalli (Insurance & Real Estate) .............95

Vimal Realty (Vimal Patel - Realtor)....................87

Windsor Run (Erickson Senior Living)..................23

Worldwide Travels...............................................55

Index for Raleigh (Triangle), Greensboro (Triad) & Virginia

A2Z Cash & Carry Wholesale................................37

Allstate (Krish Parlikad)......................................33

Apex Distribution (Items for C-Stores / Smoke Shops)7

Apna Bazar (Morrisville).....................................60

Apna RTP Realty (Ananth Chivukula)..................21

Aura Skin & Laser (Dipan Patel)..........................23

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (Greensbsoro)...10

Bashyam Global LLP - Immigration Law............114

Bharath Bazar and Café (Cary).............................85

Bhat & Associates (General Dentistry)...................81

Bhindi Jewelers ...................................................2

Blooming Buds...................................................47

Bombay Central (Grocery & Take Out Food)..........76

Brown Immigration Law (Rishi Oza, Partner).......52

Carolina Law Group ...........................................48

Cary Internal Medicine & Diabetes Center, PA........77

Cary Medical Clinic.............................................25

Chandni's Beauty Salon .......................................77

Concha, David (Immigration Attorney).................93

Corner Stone Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine.......73

Countywide Commercial (Pavement Solutions)....105

Crescent Dental (Dr. Kavita Ghai)........................79

Darji, Iyer, Joshi & Patel (Accounting & Tax Services).79

DJ Lalit (Lalit Hemnani).....................................39

DJ Pink Lips.......................................................51

DRC Photography (Video, Drone, Live Streaming)51

Eesha Realty, LLC...............................................41

Experior Financial Services ...............................101

Founders Insurance Agency - Anjana Patel.............57

GCAP (Events)...................................................87

Geological Resources, Inc.....................................51

Global Mall / Legacy Jewels ...............................115

Health Markets (Medicare, Health, Life, Supplemental)113

Hindu Center Charlotte ......................................72

Hitchhiker's Guide to College...............................65

HRA - C-Store Connect ......................................53

Hum Sub Diwali (Cary, NC)...................................4

Inchin's Bamboo Garden......................................65

Insurance - Tushar Barot, Supreme Insurance Serv...45 Insurance Shopping (Sonal Patel - Independent Agent)43 International Community Church.................15 & 85

International Community Church (40th Anniversary)24 KB Zaveree (Atlanta)...........................................19 KDP CPA..........................................................73 Khanna

PreJuve Medspa & Wellness (Neelu Agarwal MD)...25

...........................................31

RB Realty Group (Ravi Bheemarao).....................67

Real Triangle Properties (Joe Mathews).................83 Royal India Mart (International Groceries)............17

& Home.........................................................3

Saathee.com........................................................89

SFC CPA PLLC (Saad Chaudhary, CPA)...............47

Shah & Associates, CPA, PLLC.............................39

Shah & Trivedi CPA, PLLC.................................111

Shamim Beauty...................................................15

Sheraton Chapel Hill (ATMA Hotel Group)..........38

Signs (Banners, Billboards, etc. Srinivasan)............27

Singh, Manny (Real Estate)..................................81

Smile Forever Family Dentistry (Dr. Narender Dudee)61

Sona Realty (Venkat Suryadevara)........................42

Spectrum Family Medicine (Sujatha Sajeevan, MD)31

Spices Hut .........................................................71

Stylish Me............................................................9

Taaza Fresh Indian Bistro.....................................33

Technone LLC (Securtiy Systems).......................111

The Ivy Edge, LLC (College Admissions)...............37

Travel Passion.....................................................47

Tutoring (Nirmala Koripella - A+ Tutoring)..........78

Uniworld Travel..................................................45

USPS.................................................................93

VAS Realty LLC (Ashwani Dalal).......................105

Vema Mortgage LLC (Vipul Hapani)...............27/65

Venu Parepalli (Insurance & Real Estate) .............95

Vimal Realty (Vimal Patel - Realtor)....................63

Wake Spine & Pain..............................................27

West Cary Medicine (Dr. Kareem M.D.).................21

Worldwide Travels...............................................55