Saathee Magazine March 2012 Charlotte by Shukla Entertainment

Harvesting Corn in Rural India

March 2012

In this issue: Sikh Doctor Joined U.S.Army for Love of Country Iran Sanctions, Oil, India

Hello Readers! Maj. Kamal Kalsi, who was born on an Indian air force base, is one of three Sikh soldiers serving in the U.S. Army and the only one on Fort Bragg. The Sikh doctor joined the army for love of country and tradition. See the story on pg. 08. Burma continues to undergo historic changes. Read the piece on its revered fighter for democracy Aung San Suu Kyi on pg. 32. The island nation of Maldives underwent a coup recently, just when democracy was taking hold. Article on pg. 36. Keywords are king when it comes to effective marketing. Learn how to use words or even phrases in online and print marketing in the article on pg. 62. Learn about proper nutrition to benefit your eyesight in the Healthwise column on pg. 52. Pakistan’s military, judiciary, and government have turned into a three-headed monster. See how the dynamics of the three are tearing the country apart in the article on pg. 78 Festivals and holidays are listed on pg. 118. Catch up on all the local and regional community organizations and events on pg. 90 and get up to the minute updates at our website: saathee.com.

A features magazine for the South Asian Community of the Carolinas

Quote: “A person's mind stretched to a new idea never goes back to its original dimensions.” - Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.

March 2012 – Issue # 167 Editor: Samir Shukla (saatheemag@hotmail.com) Publisher: Divakar Shukla (rakavid@aol.com) Community News Editor: Rajesh Ganatra Ad Design / Layout: Nate “Nageshwar” Andrews Consultant: Himanshu Desai Executive Assistant: Suzie Tanis Contributors: Kirit Shukla, Rajesh Ganatra, Judith L. Bergman, Chandan Sen, Gail Z. Martin, Smitha Prasad, Dr. Maha Gingrich, Amanda Sodhi, Krutika Chheda, Anjana Agarwal, Nirja Parikh, Anita Kulkarni, Jay Cohen, Sumeet P. Shah, and Jalendu Vaidya.

In This Issue

All contents © 2012 Shukla Entertainment, Inc. Sikh Doctor Joined Army for Love of Country . . . . . . . . .pg. 08 Analysis: Iran Sanctions and India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 12 Tending to a Bruised Knee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 14 Saathee Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 18 Film Clips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 22 Sangeet and Evergreen Film Lyrics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 24 Indian Classical Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 28 Dances of India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 30 Aung San Suu Kyi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 32 Maldives Coup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 36 Politics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 38 Books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 40 Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 42 Children’s Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 44 Mastering Meaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 46 Astride three Continents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 48 Yoga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 50 Healthwise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 52 Stock Tickers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 56 Personal Finance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 60 Marketing Turnaround . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 62 Tax Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 66 The Chai Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 70 Cricket Forum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 72 Recipes of the Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 74 Immigration Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 76 Pakistan’s Three-Headed Monster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 78 Community Focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 84 Community Organizations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 90 Pop’s Puzzles and Jokes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 116 Festivals and Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 118 AstroScope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 120 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 122 Puzzle Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 124 Index of Advertisers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 124 Saathee.com

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 20th of the previous month. 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.

- Founded 1998 Saathee Magazine P.O. Box 11468 Charlotte, NC 28220 Phone: (704) 527-7570 Fax: (704) 527-7590 E-mail: saatheemag@hotmail.com

www.saathee.com Cover: Harvest Time

Spring marks harvest time in India. The time is celebrated with several harvest festivals including Holi and Baisakhi.

Photo: Dreamstime

Saathee Magazine, USPS 021-116, is a free subscription magazine published monthly by Shukla Entertainment Inc. POSTMASTER: Send address corrections to Saathee, P.O. Box 11468, Charlotte, NC 28220-1468. Postage paid at Charlotte, NC. (ISSN: 1543-8147) March 2012

Helping children develop to their fullest potential through a secure, nurturing, loving and stimulating environment.

Now enrolling and accepting applications for the fall!! • P.T. & F.T. Preschool and Transitional Kindergarten • Full Day Kindergarten • First Grade

Private school recognized and in compliance with the NC Public School system Privately owned and operated Low staff : child ratios Offering programs for infant – 5 years After school programs for 5 – 10 years Intimate, home-like environment Bi-lingual learning opportunities for all ages, every day 910 E. Arrowood Road • Charlotte, NC 28217

704.553.2100

• • • • • • 14115 Lancaster Highway Charlotte, NC 28277 • 704.540.2250 • • • • • • Huntersville Town Center Coming Soon

www.ShiningStarsAcademy.com www.ShiningStarsAcademy.com

Challa Immigration Law Office NOW PROUDLY SERVING THE CAROLINAS

5105 Grace Park Drive Morrisville, NC. 27560 (919) 380-4044/P (919) 380-4474/F We Speak Hindi, Telugu, Gujarati, Spanish & Portuguese

Lakshmi Challa

Perm/Green Cards 路 Sports Visas Family Cases 路 Work Visas 路 Citizenship USCIS & DOL Audits 路 Fiancee Visas Business & Visitor Visas www.challalaw.com

info@challalaw.com

Business & Family Immigration Law Firm with over two decades of collective experience Special Counsel to the Office of the Attorney General of VA for Immigration Matters Seasoned lawyers in the USA and in India that can address your legal needs!

Challa Legal Services (P) Ltd 401, Flora Building, Road No. 3, Banjara Hills Hyderabad, India 500 034 91.40.23352295/p 91.40.23352297/f

Challa Law Offices, PLC 5040 Sadler Place Ste 200 GLEN ALLEN, VA 23060 (804.360.8482) 4445 Corporation Lane, Suite 291 VIRGINIA BEACH, VA 23462 Call Toll Free Phone: 800-913-4122

the Army Reserves as he finished medical school. But he found out before going on active duty that an Army policy from the 1980s would require him to set aside his turban and cut his hair. After he garnered more than 15,000 petitions from around the world along with a letter signed by about 50 congressmen, Kalsi received permission to adapt his military uniform to fit his religious uniform. He described the process as simply a lot of paperwork. In addition to the turban and unshorn locks, Sikhs are required to wear a steel or iron bracelet, a small comb in their hair and long boxer shorts. “Each of the symbols we keep, we feel have a spiritual purpose, as well as a more practical purpose. Certainly, if you see a Sikh in a crowd of thousands or ten thousands, you’ll be able to identify the Sikh,” said Kalsi, who often ends sentences with a clipped cadence similar to President Obama’s. “And the founders of our religion wanted us to be easily identifiable, because social service is such a big part of our religion.”

Sikh Doctor Joined the Army for Love of Country and Family Tradition Maj. Kamal Kalsi, who was born on an Indian air force base, is one of three Sikh soldiers serving in the Army and the only one on Fort Bragg.

‘I love this country’ Kalsi finished a seven-month tour in Afghanistan in the fall, where he was in charge of a medical tent in Helmand province, At an Army post known for its red-capped paratroopers and one of the most dangerous places in the country. Green Beret Special Forces, Maj. Kamal Kalsi dons a camouflage Photos by James Robinson / The Fayetteville Observer turban. And unlike most Fort Bragg soldiers, who visit a barber weekly, Kalsi has never shaved or had a haircut. He is one of three Sikh soldiers serving in the U.S. Army, and the only one at Fort Bragg. Kalsi, 35, is an emergency room doctor at Womack Army Medical Center, where he says his similarities with soldiers have outweighed his differences. “I’m just one of the guys here. When they see me, I’m not the dude with the turban,” said Kalsi, whose headgear and unshorn hair are allowed because they are articles of his religion. “I’m just another one of the ER docs doing his job.” That wasn’t always the case. He was bullied as a child. After 9/11, some civilians looked at his turban and treated him as if he helped bring the towers down. Some Sikhs were among the first killed in hate crimes after 9/11. Now, when he has time away from the chaos of the Womack Even when he wears his Army uniform through an airport, emergency room - where he may treat a stubbed toe, an open he is picked out for extra screening. fracture, an asthmatic baby and a stopped heart in one night “I’ve been called Osama bin Laden, and worse,” Kalsi said. Kalsi returns to his house in New Jersey, where his parents, But the occasional vitriol has never made Kalsi question his siblings, wife and children live. decision to join the Army, where he protects the right of those He met Chinar about 15 years ago in an America Online chat people to say those things. room, back when the Internet was new. He was in college in Serving in the military runs in his family, and in his faith. New Jersey. She was studying in California. They became Sikhism is a religion that teaches there are many paths to find friends, then more. One semester, he had to get a job to pay off one God. It stresses service to others and defending the rights his $3,000 phone bill. of anyone who is oppressed. Sikhs have a long military In 2003, after riding in on a white horse with a sword at his tradition. More than 80,000 Sikhs died fighting alongside the side, Kamal married Chinar. They have two small children: allies in World War I and II. Maya and Kabir. By John Ramsey / The Fayetteville Observer

He hopes his son, Kabir, will follow the family footsteps into the military. Kalsi said his patriotism runs deep: His favorite holiday is July 4, and he still gets choked up when the national anthem plays. “I love this country. I think the diversity that’s reflected within our population is what makes us strong,” he said. “I think that’s the strength I bring to the Army. An Army that is as diverse as its people is a stronger one.”

Family tradition Kalsi was born on an Indian air force base. His father and grandfather were airmen there, and his great-grandfather served in the Royal British Army. When he was 2 years old, his parents moved to the United States, landing at John F. Kennedy International Airport with $5 in their pockets. Becoming a soldier was always one of his boyhood dreams. In 2000, while enrolled in medical school, he entered the F. Edward Hebert Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program. In exchange for three years of active-duty service, the Army paid his tuition. Kalsi never had an issue wearing his turban while serving in Saathee.com

March 2012

Javier Espinoza

Terra McKenzie Paralegal

Julian Cabra

Diana Paralegal

Alexandra Paralegal

910 E. Washington St., Greenville, SC 29601 Phone: 864.312.4444 | Fax: 864.312.4447 | Cell: 864.609.7157 Toll Free: 1.855.312.2444 www.thecarolinalawgroup.com

WE SPEAK HINDI AND GUJARATI

Nihar Patel

Monty D. Desai

PAyAL HAS MOvED TO A NEw, LARGER LOCATION!

6233 South Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28217 (previously Bombay Bazaar)

GRAND OPENING SALE COMING SOON

PAYAL

Indian Groceries & Spices

Full Line Of Groceries Fresh vegetables at the lowest prices

EvERy wEEk!

Fresh Snacks available every weekend! (Samosa, Khasta Kachori, Khaman etc.)

DvDs are ONLy 99¢

7 dAYS A week!

Nations Ford Rd.

Archdale Dr.

OPen

Exit 4 77 South

11 AM to 8 PM

704-521-9680

Old Pineville Rd.

To 485

PAYAL

Exit 4 77 North

old Payal Location

South Blvd.

Jaipur

To Uptown

NEW LOCATION

We accept EBT Card

Shyama

B e au t y Pa rl o r

Call Shyama Patel for appointment Store: 704-521-9680 Cell: 704-281-9701

Shyama Beauty Parlor Inside Payal Grocery

AnAlysis:

are to lure President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to the negotiating table, as Brookings Institution fellow Suzanne Maloney argued recently in Foreign Affairs. “[With the] ratcheting up of sanctions, and clearly now an attempt to wage economic warfare against Iran and force a regime change, plus the continuous threat that all options, including military action, are on the table, any sensible nationalist would say the only protection that Iran has is to develop nuclear capability,” said former Indian Foreign Secretary Kanwal Sibal. Perhaps more importantly, the banking mechanism that Obama has adopted to impose these sanctions allows countries like Japan, South Korea and China — which consistently opposes US foreign policy interventions — to circumvent the blockade. And it singles out India — which has supported Washington’s call for an end to Iran’s nuclear program before the International Atomic Energy Agency — for special punishment. How so? China and other nations from which Iran makes significant purchases have already set up a barter system of sorts that allows them to pay for oil with goods, rather than cash, thereby cutting out Iran’s central bank. But because Iran is not a big customer for India’s outsourcing sector, or a significant buyer of any other Indian commodity, India must settle its oil bill in cash. That means, first of all, it had to convince Iran to accept 45 percent of its money in rupees at a time when the Indian currency is bouncing back from an all-time low against the US dollar — a feat that it reportedly achieved recently, according to the Indian Express. But it also leaves India’s future oil purchases in doubt, as the shaky payment mechanism could break down any time. And it sets up America’s newest strategic partner to bear the brunt of US criticism simply for doing what its neighbors are doing in a more direct way. “It’s a bit unfair that you come up with sanctions on the eve of elections and make it appear that it’s a matter of great urgency,” said Mansingh. “Work with the United Nations and the IAEA ... is basically what India is saying.” Mansingh also emphasized that this was India’s stance the last time Washington forged ahead aggressively against supposed weapons of mass destruction: the invasion of Iraq. In calling attention to that debacle, India is being more than a little disingenuous. China or Russia would be almost certain to veto any UN resolution mirroring America’s current economic sanctions. But India’s position is consistent and pragmatic, as well. New Delhi has for decades refused to ratify the Nonproliferation Treaty (NPT) because, it argues, it is designed to help the small club of nations with nuclear weapons retain a dominant say over world affairs, and has no provisions for disarmament. At the same time, its own history in acquiring nuclear weapons, as well as the contrasting fates of Iraq and Pakistan after Sept. 11, provide strong arguments suggesting that no measure will be sufficient to convince Iran to abandon its nuclear program. And, as a result, it is wise to prepare for the day Tehran gets the bomb by establishing some common ground. “For the US to singlemindely focus on one single aspect of

Iran sanctions threaten US-India ties In India, as well as Iran, Obama’s sanctions could be more than counterproductive.

By Jason Overdorf - GlobalPost.com NEW DELHI, India — The West’s quest to impose a painful embargo on Iran is slamming into a harsh reality: India is declining to cooperate. Without the participation of major importing nations like India, the sanctions are far less likely to succeed in forcing Iran back to the nuclear negotiating table. The standoff means that the West’s initiative could backfire, harming US-India ties more than it thwarts Iran’s apparent nuclear ambitions. Some experts even contend that, considering regional geopolitics and particularly India’s relations with its neighbors, the sanctions’ failure has been written in stone from the outset. As the prospect of war with Iran mounts, the West has resorted to unusual measures to promote the success of its economic offensive. To Despite the much coerce other nations to ballyhooed “strategic comply, the US has issued partnership” between the extra-territorial sanctions US and India,Washington against any entity doing business with Iran’s central doesn’t seem to be bank, a move that listening. complicates all potential trade with Tehran. Any bank that engages in a “significant financial transaction” with Iran’s central bank — necessary for facilitating the currency conversion in oil purchases — is barred from doing business in the US. To Washington’s dismay, last month, India announced that it wouldn’t cut back on oil imports from Iran. When doubts arose over how India would pay for its oil with sanctions in place, Iran said they would allow India to pay in rupees, circumventing Washington’s embargo. And so the deal was done. “We’ve been at pains to explain to the US that we have a special problem here,” said Lalit Mansingh, a former Indian ambassador to the US. “On the issue of Iran acquiring nuclear weapons, we have a clear stance: We are against it. But we are also dependent on Iran for 12-15 percent of our oil supplies and that can’t be wished away.” Despite the much ballyhooed “strategic partnership” between the US and India, Washington doesn’t seem to be listening. Desirable as it may be to slow Iran’s acquisition of nuclear weapons, and however appealing these sanctions might sound to US voters, this is not the way to go about it, many experts say. Harsh economic sanctions are as likely to drive Tehran to “double down on its quest for the ultimate deterrent” as they Saathee.com

continued on page 76 12

March 2012

By Samir Shukla Rock Rolling and Aging It was 1 a.m. The rock & roll band I had gone to see at a local club had just finished playing and my adrenaline was still pumping. The night is young, I thought. Where to go next? It was the 3rd night in a row of clubbing and I wanted more. The only other place anything was going on at that time of the night was the late night dance club. There was also the option of calling up one of my night owl friends and hang out. Those were the days of tireless youth, when I didn’t think twice about going out to clubs 3, 4, or 5 nights a week. They were the good old college and post-college days. That was nearly 30 years ago. Life has progressed, wife, kids, gray hair, mortgage, creaking bones. Today, time moves at a different, more structured pace. It’s the only way to keep up with the hectic schedule of family and work commitments. On occasion the old days pop up into memory, when a forgotten song comes blasting on the radio, or when I run into a long-lost clubbing buddy. Adventures of youth, even ones I’d like to forget, peek out of the folds of memory either putting a smile on my face or a sense of disbelief. Did I really used to do that? Flashback three decades. I was driving back from a club on a frigid February night. The band I saw would soon become one of my favorites. The radio was playing when I felt the car’s engine rev while motoring down the street. It revved higher when I waited at a stoplight. With a big whoosh, the car stalled at the stoplight, just at the edge of downtown. The wind howled outside as I tried to restart the old jalopy. There was no one around on that night to lend a hand and it was during an era when cell phones were still in the realm of science fiction. I bundled up and braved the deserted streets looking for a pay phone. After walking several blocks, I noticed someone entering a building. It was the city jailhouse and the night guard must have stepped outside to smoke a cigarette. I ran and caught up with him before the door closed and was able to use their phone to call AAA to the rescue. It was youthful fervor that kept the rock rolling in those days. There was always something going on at the favorite clubs, and there were plenty of pals to go out and have a drink with. In the fast-paced days and nights of youth, the process of aging is rarely on a young man’s mind. When young blood is pumping in the veins, all you see is the prospect of your whole life still ahead and not what’s been left behind. And then a certain reality kicks in, say as you rapidly approach the age of 50. It’s just another number, of course, not much different than turning 30 or 40. But life’s experiences and perspectives converge. Accomplishments as well as missed opportunities stroll back into introspection. Time moves quickly with the progression of youth, even faster on the other side of 40, picking up pace as it tugs up against the half century mark. A certain amount of attention to details is required after the first half of your life has passed and the second half is beckoning, tapping on the head. Saathee.com

It’s also a time when quirks, likes and dislikes become amplified, as one has invariably fallen into routine and comfort zones. Mind you, comfort zones aren’t all bad, even though they come at the cost of spontaneity, that youthful abandon and love of life. Once a person hits that certain age, and it may be at 35, 40, 50, routines become fixed and too many deviations cause discomfort. Entering the final third act of life, one seeks a slower pace. There was a time when one jumped up, climbed out the window and dashed onto the road, headlong and steadfast. Now, forethought and planning are necessary to make the day productive. Creaking bones have a way of mellowing youthful bravado and fervor. Creaking and popping bones? I wouldn’t have believed it, but it’s the beginning of the third part of life’s trilogy, and bones do creak. Of course brain cells are scattered further by aging and its related physical processes. The simple act of finding car keys sometimes turns into a battle, as numerous distractions jumble your thoughts along the way. I’ve been a full-fledged member of the above 40 club for nearly a decade and now approaching the 50 club. The past decades have left layers of experience and brought about contentment. Life does spin on a different plane at the beginning of the third act, inviting you not only to tag along but relish in what remains. So, here it was; another frigid February night. The band that became a favorite after that night all those years ago was playing in town. I was revved to go. The careening guitars beckoned, the eclectic rhythm section awaiting a high five, and my fellow, the similarly aging singer seemed to call out my name, to join him in crooning old favorite songs. I was ready for the decibels accompanied by cold brews. The house was quiet, the night progressing. It was still a tad early to head out as the band I wanted to see was headlining and wouldn’t begin till around midnight. I sat on the couch to rest for a moment, reminiscing, TV flickering, songs buzzing in my head. My head jerked and I woke up, my eyes focusing on the clock. It was nearly midnight and I had fallen asleep for more than an hour. The wind was howling outside the house. The weather was almost a repeat of the night all those years ago. The night the same band played when the old jalopy I was driving died at the stoplight in the middle of the night. Back then, I would have pulled on a pair of shoes, bundled up and headed out. Groggy head or not. But, my adrenaline was not pumping; rather it was goading me to lie back down. The house was nice and toasty and the sweet weight of slumber filled my eyes. I took a peek at the dark, deserted and very cold street outside the living room window, let out a sigh that I would miss a band that’s been one of my favorite for nearly 30 years. I hummed a few notes of one of their songs, made some air guitar motions with my fingers and arms, sent a high five to the lads who were probably just cranking up the first song, and crawled into bed. Samir Shukla is the editor of Saathee magazine. contact - saatheemag@hotmail.com

March 2012

Serving all Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro & South Carolina

A&V SAtelliteS

704.469.5688 1.877.589.9384 www.anvsat.com

ASK HOW TO GET A $50 VISA GIFT CARD - A COuRTESy OF A&V Only

We speak English, Hindi & Gujarati - a courtesy of A&V only

Ali & Sons Car Care Formerly Rapid Car Care 2101 Shamrock Dr. Charlotte N.C. 28205

704-562-8066 / 704-537-4946 We provide Professional and Certified Service at Affordable Prices. Our Key Services Include: • N.C. INSPECTION • Computerized Diagnostics and Performance • Starting and Charging • General Repairs • New Tire at low price • Used Tire only $20 and up • Brakes • Shocks & Struts • Oil and Filter Change • Front End Suspension, C.V. Axle • Engine: Service/Repair - Minor & Major • Heating and Air Conditioning • Coolant Flush • Transmission Flush • Fuel Injection Service • Tune- up • Transmission: Automatic Service/Repair • Complete vehicle inspection before you sell or buy a Car. • Minor and Major Body work (Painting & Denting) • Mufflers

e Special Pric Alignment $49.99

Your satisfaction is guaranteed! Open Monday - Saturday from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sunday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Ali (Service Manager) Welcomes You All

upcoming Movie Releases

Top Five Movies - March 2012

(Bollywood films slated to be released in the next 4-6 weeks) 1. Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu Imran Khan, Kareena, Sonia Mehra, Ram Kapoor, Boman Irani & Randhir Kapoor

Shudra the Rising (Director: Sanjeev Jaiswal) Cast: Gauri Shankar, Shaji Chaudhary, Ganesh Pandit, Vijay Shukla, Kirran Sharad, Pravin Baby & Shridhar Dubey

2. Ekk Deewana Tha Prateik Babbar, Amy Jackson, Manu Rishi, Sachin Khedekar, Ramesh Sippy, & Samantha Ruth Prabhu

Kuch Spice to Make It Meetha? (Director: Adeeb Rais) Cast: Purab Kohli, Nauheed Cyrusi, Mansheel Gujral & Sanjeev Kapoor

3. Agneepath Hrithik Roshan, Sanjay Dutt, Priyanka Chopra, Rishi Kapoor, and Katrina Kaif

Will You Marry Me? (Director: Aditya Datt) Cast: Rajeev Khandelwal, Shreyas Talpade, Mugdha Godse, Muzammil Ibrahim, Celina Jaitly, and Paresh Rawal

4. Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya Riteish Deshmukh, Genelia Dsouza, Om Puri, Tinu Anand, Smita Jaykar, and Veena Malik

Paan Singh Tomar (Dir: Tigmanshu Dhulia) Cast: Irrfan Khan, Mahie Gill, Vipin Sharma, Imran Hasnee, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui

5. Players Abhishek Bachchan, Sonam Kapoor, Bobby Deol, Bipasha Basu, Neil Nitin Mukesh, and Omi Vaidya

London Paris New York (Director: Anu Menon) Cast: Ali Zafar & Aditi Rao Hydar

Top Five Songs - March 2012

Say Yes To Love (Director: Marukh Mirza Beig) Cast: Aasad Mirza, Nazia Hussain, Aditya Raj Kapoor, Saira Mirza, Master Ashish Sujal, and Danish Sheikh

1. Kahaani “Kahaani” Music: Vishal Dadlani, Shekhar Ravjiani Singers: K.K., & Vishal Dadlanai

Kahaani (Director: Sujoy Ghosh) Cast: Vidya Balan, Parambrata Chattopadhyay, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui

2. London Paris New York “Thehree Si Zindagi” Music: Ali Zafar Singers: Ali Zafar & Aditi Rao Hydari

3. Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya “Tu Mohabbat Hai” Music: Sachin-Jigar Singers: Atif Aslam & Monali Thakur

7 Welcome to London (Director: Asad Shan) Cast: Asad Shan, Sabeeka Imam, Aseem Tiwari, Javed Khan, Patrick Moorhouse, and Aliakbar Campwala

4. Ek Deewana Tha “Hosanna” Music: A.R. Rahman Singers: Leaon D Souza & Suzanne D Mello

Chaar Din Ki Chandni (Director: Samir Karnik) Cast: Tusshar Kapoor, Kulraj Randhawa, Anupam Kher, Om Puri, Mukul Dev & Johny Lever,

5. Agneepath “O Saiyyan” Music: Ajay-Atul Singer: Roopkumar Rathod

5 Ghantey Mien 5 Crore (Director: Faisal Saif) Cast: Meera, Abhishek Kumar, Shahwar Ali, Rashid Khan, Kavita Radheshyam, and Ranjeet

(Note: This top five is based on the following non-scientific research: your feedback, video rental, box office from India and United States, internet opinions & our opinion) Saathee.com

March 2012

Are you paying too much tax? Having a tax strategy is the difference between Warren Buffett and Warren Buffett's secretary. • Tax planning is available to everyone, not just to people like Warren Buffett. • Tax planning is the key to successfully & legally reducing tax liability. • The power of tax planning is during the year, NOT scrambling for deductions at the end of the year. • Businesses and individuals pay the lowest amount of taxes allowable by law because we continually look for ways to minimize your taxes throughout the year, not just at the end of the year. • Our plans are mapped to IRS code, so there are never any "grey" areas to worry about. • No Hourly Rates - there is only ONE fee and we guarantee 100% return on your investment or it's FREE.

CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION OVER THE PHONE.

Jim Soloman 980.235.9861

The First Indo-Chinese Restaurant in Charlotte kday Wee pecials S h c Lun arting at St

4.95

Vegetarian Dishes • Paneer Available Halal Meat on Request • No Pork TAkE OuT SPECIALS

$10 OFF w/purchase of $50 $3 OFF w/purchase of $25

$5 OFF w/purchase of $35 $2 OFF w/purchase of $15

Party Tray Catering (1/2 tray prices) Veg Rolls (35 pcs): $30 • Lolly Pop Chicken (35 pcs): $30 • Veg: $40 Chicken: $45 • Chow Mein Noodles Veg: $35 • Fried Rice - Veg: $30 **Your Choice of Sauces Available** Many more items available. Open: Tues - Thurs: 11:30 am - 10:00 pm Friday: 11:30 am - 10:30 pm • Saturday: Noon - 10:30 pm Sunday: Noon - 10:00 pm • Closed Mondays.

Phone : 704-568-8877 5301 F. East Independence Blvd Charlotte, NC 28212 Just Minutes from Hindu temples

Original and only Location

Independence Blvd between Sharon Amity and Idlewild Roads. See Menu at: www.Saathee.com/FuLin-Charlotte Saathee.com

Delivery Available March 2012

“THE CAROLINA’S HOTTEST DJ”

Desi Rhythm Productions upcoming Movie Releases Continued (Bollywood films slated to be released in the next 4-6 weeks)

Blood Money (Director: Vishal Mahadkar) Cast: Kunal Khemu, Amrita Puri, Manish Choudhary, Shekher Shukla, and Mia Uyeda

The SouthEast’s

DESI

Hindi Film Songs • Bhangra • Remixes Hip-Hop • Top 40 • Disco

Agent Vinod (Director: Sriram Raghavan) Cast: Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Gulshan Grover, Prem Chopra, Ravi Kissen, Ram Kapoor, and Ann Lee Roberts

Sangeets / Garba-raas / Bharats / Weddings / Receptions Birthdays / Baby Showers / Anniversaries

The Ultimate in LIGHTS, SOUND & STYLE Intelligent Lighting, Uplighting, Complete Sound System, Plasma Screens, Dhol Players, & Emcee.

Bumboo (Director: Jagdish Rajpurohit) Cast: Kavin Dave, Sharat Saxena, Sanjay Mishra, Sudhir Pandey, Sumit Kaul, and Mandy Takhar

Over 40 Events in 2011

For Bookings or info call

DJ Desi (Amit) (704) 737-0930

It’s My Life (Director: Anees Bazmee) Cast: Harman Baweja, Nana Patekar, Genelia Dsouza, Asrani, and Sham Mashalkar

s1357@msn.com

The Name to Remember for the celebration you will never forget!

Housefull 2 (Director: Sajid Khan) Cast: Akshay Kumar, Asin, John Abraham, Jacqueline Fernandez, Shreyas Talpade, Shazahn Padamsee, and Riteish Deshmukh

Blooming Buds 18 Exclusive Mandaps to offer!!

Maximum (Director: Kabeer Kaushik) Cast: Sonu Sood, Naseeruddin Shah, Neha Dhupia, Vinay Pathak, Aarya Babbar, Swanand Kirkire, and Anjana Sukhani

Decorations and Flowers for All Occasions

Siyaah (Director: Aziz Naser) Cast: Faheem Ul Haq, Zarine Ali, Irfan Jafer, Aziz Naser, Madhulagna Das, and Gurpreet Kaur

CALL FO DISC R OUN TS

Hate Story (Director: Vivek Agnihotri) Cast: Gulshan Devaiya, Paoli Dam, and Nikhil Dwivedi

Extravagant Mandap Decorator WE PROVIDE

Tezz (Director: Priyadarshan) Cast: Anil Kapoor, Ajay Devgn, Kangna Ranaut, Boman Irani, Zayed Khan, Mohanlal, and Sameera Reddy

• Mandaps, domes, backdrops, torans & entrance gates • Ganesh murtis & elaborate hand-carved furniture • Bridal chairs & chair covers • Decorations for stages, garbas, weddings and all other occasions! • Masala DJs Entertainment professional sound & LED lighting

Best Service with Competitive Prices! Call Manju Nigam

Ferrari Ki Sawaari (Director: Rajesh Mapuskar) Cast: Sharman Joshi and Vidya Balan

919.465.7265

www.bloomingbudsnc.com

(Release dates subject to change) Saathee.com

March 2012

Buy 2 GET 1 FREE

KOHInOOR FOOD uSA InC Is pleased to appoint Vishwas Imports, llC as their distributor for north Carolina.

For business Please contact

VISHWAS IMPORTS llC, 3607 Davis Drive, Morrisville, nC 27560 Phone: 919-439-0035(0) , 919 274 8653(M) Fax: 1-888-461-3969 eMail : vishwasImports@yahoo.com

Masti sequel to be called Grand Masti The sequel to Indra Kumar’s 2004 smash hit Masti is titled Grand Masti. According to an interview with Bollywood Hungama, writer Milap Zaveri said, “Masti, which released way back in 2004, was India’s first sex comedy and the sequel is all set to be even more wild and wacky.” The film will bring back the Masti trio Vivek Oberoi, Riteish Deshmukh and Aftab Shivdasani.

Film Clips London Paris New York Arrives in March

London Paris New York is a film that captures the angst of the twenties, the most dramatic period of one’s life - when you have to find a career; you have your first significant relationship and most importantly form your identity in this world. This is the story about Lalitha, a middle class south Indian girl from Chembur (an eastern suburb in Mumbai) who is on her way to New York to study politics with full scholarship, and Nikhil, a Punjabi rich kid from Bandra (a posh western suburb of Mumbai) who is going to study Filmmaking in London on 100 percent dad’s money. They decide to hangout together one evening in London and find that they are completely drawn to each other even as their future lies on separate continents. The film follows their personal journey and their love story as they meet in London, Paris and New York for a night each over eight years. The film is in three chapters and each chapter is shot in a manner that mirrors the mental state of Nikhil and Lalitha. The film stars Ali Zafar and Aditi Rao Hydari and is directed by Anu Menon. Music and lyrics are by Ali Zafar.

Ram Charan Teja in Zanjeer Remake South India superstar Chiranjeevi’s son Ram Charan Teja will be making his Bollywood debut with the remake of the classic Amitabh Bachchan starrer Zanjeer. The remake will be directed by Apoorva Lakhia. Ram Charan Teja’s film Magadheera broke all records and became the highest grossing Telugu film. Shooting begins in April when the rest of the cast, including the leading lady, is finalized.

Leander Paes Plays Terrorist in Rajdhani Express Tennis ace Leander Paes who is making his debut with Ashok Kohli’s film Rajdhani Express, where he will portray a terrorist. The film is about a journey of the Rajdhani Express train from Delhi to Mumbai with Paes as the terrorist on board. The film also stars Jimmy Shergill as a cop and Priyanshu Chatterjee, Sudhanshu Pandey, Sayali Bhagat, Kiran Kumar, Gulshan Grover, Achint Kaur and Mukesh Rishi as co-passengers.

Dhanush to make Bollywood debut with Raanjhnaa

Akshay to Sport Different Avatars in Oh My God

“Kolaveri Di” sensation Dhanush has been signed on by Tanu Weds Manu director Aanand L. Rai to play the lead in his next film Raanjhnaa, which is a love story set against the backdrop of Banaras. This will be Tamil actor Dhanush’s first Bollywood film. Apparently, Dhanush is not well versed with Hindi, but he is keen to explore this part of the industry and learn the local language and culture. The actor who recently visited Banaras with director Rai was amazed with the culture and the traditions in a different part of the country. Dhanush is convinced he will be fluent in the local language by the time filming begins, as he plans on hiring a language coach.

Kumar will be seen in different looks in his forthcoming film Oh My God. He will be seen in various getups like that of a Hindu in dhoti and Jodhpuri, a Muslim in pathani suit and even a funky look of a cool dude biker. Oh My God is adapted from the critically acclaimed and commercially successful Gujarati play, “Kanji Virrudh Kanji” which was later launched in Hindi with the title “Kishen Vs Kanhaiya.” In the play Paresh Rawal played an atheist who incurs huge losses when his antique shop is destroyed by an earthquake, after which he challenges God. Kumar has different looks as he represents different religions in the film. Oh My God will be directed by Umesh Shukla, who had also directed the play it is based on. – Courtesy of India Fm.

Even though he has played myriad roles, Dutt always makes a splash as a gangster. In his next project with Ashtavinayak, Dutt will play the role of a Gujarati gangster. According to Bollywood Hungama, film is being produced by Ashtavinayak and will be directed by Soham Shah. The film will feature Dutt portraying the real life gangster Sharman Munjha Jadeja from Porbandar, Gujarat. Munjha ruled Porbandar and other places in Saurashtra in the 80s. The shooting begins in May. After completing the project Dutt moves on to the remake of Satte Pe Satta which will be co-produced by Ashtavinayak and Sanjay Dutt’s banner.

Yash Chopra Back in the Director’s Chair After seven years, Chopra last directed the hit Veer Zaara, the legendary director has begun work on an as yet untitled film starring ShahRukh Khan, Katrina Kaif, and Anushka Sharma. This is the first time Khan and Kaif will share screen space. Yash Chopra’s younger son Uday announced last month that the filming had begun. The movie will feature music by A.R. Rahman and lyrics by Gulzar. Look for more details and a release date at a later time.

Saathee.com

Sanjay Dutt to Play Gujarati Gangster

March 2012

Indo-Pak MiddleEastern

9630-G University City Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28213-3614

Caribbean

(university Area) Weekly Specials on Vegetables Monthly Specials on Groceries Cash Back Rewards Promotional E-Mail offers We accept EBT

Groceries Produce DVDs

Visit our store for details on signing up for the FREE BonuS Rewards program.

Store Hours Monday: 5-9 Tuesday - Sunday: 11-9

Phone: 704.548.1973 Fax: 704.548.1975

gimnc@carolina.rr.com

GandhiGrocery.com

Ranked One in Top 10 Restaurants in Charlotte!

saffron

Indian Cuisine Restaurant & Bar

1 Free Entree

Buy 1 Entree & 2 drinks get 2nd entree free. Other restrictions may apply. Exp 4.5.12 Not Valid with any other offers. Maximum discount $12.

Lunch Buffet - 7 Days a Week! LUNCH: Mon - Fri: 11 - 2:30 pm; Sat-Sun: 11 - 3 pm DINNER : Mon - Thurs: 5 - 9:30 pm; Fri & Sat: 5 - 10:30 pm Sunday Dinner closed but available for Private Parties.

2135-B Ayrsley Town Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28273 (Next to Ayrsley Theatre / YMCA. Exit # 1. I-485 & S. Tryon Rd.)

Phone: 980-297-7722

Whitehall Park Dr.

WWW.SAFFRON-CUISINE.COM Arylsey Town Blvd.

For Catering, call Sunil Handa at 704-889-FOOD (3663)

485

Preferred caterer for all hotels in Charlotte.

Saathee.com

March 2012

By Kirit Shukla Tribute to past Bollywood Singers Song: Kahān se āye badarā... Film: Chashm-e-Baddoor Year: 1981 Music: Raj Kamal Singers: Yesudas, Haimanti Shukla Lyric: Indu Jain Based on Indian Classical Rāgā: Megh Tāl/Rhythm: Kaharavā Starring: Deepti Naval, Farooq Sheikh

Raj Kamal (Birth unknown - Died 2005) Raj Kamal, a music director relatively unknown, was born in Matoda village in Rajasthan. He changed his birth name of Dalpat to the more Bollywood-friendly Raj Kamal. He was one of five children and moved to Bombay with his family when persuaded by his brother, the tabla maestro Pundit Bansilal Bharati. Raj kamal’s three elder sons are music composers in Bollywood. Along with composing music and songs for films, Raj Kamal also composed music for popular TV series Kahān se āye badarā including B. R. Chopra’s “Ramayan,” “Mahabharat,” “Mahabharat Katha,” “Ma Shakti,” and “Vishnu Purān.” He Lyrics in English:Kahān se āye badarā, ghulatā jāye kajarāKahān died in 2005 after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s disease. se āye badarā, ghulatā jāye kajarāPalakon ke satarange dipak, ban baithe ānsu ki jhālarMoti kā anamolak hirā, mitti me jā phisalāKahān se āye badarā ...Ninda piyā ke sanga sidhāri, Some of his films in which he composed the music: sapanon ki sukhi phulavāriAmrita hothon tak āte hi, jaise visha 1971—Dost Aur Dushman men badalāKahān se āye badarā ...Utare megh yā phir chhāye, 1972—Acchhā Burā nirday jhonke agana badhāyeBarase hain ab tose sāvan, roye man 1976—Merā Salām hai pagalākahān se āye badarā ... 1979—Sāwan Ko āne Do Meaning (Summary): Where did these black clouds come from? 1980—Iazbāt The multi-color lights of the eyes turned into tears; the precious 1980—Pāyal Ki Jhankār pearly diamond fell down in the mud. The ﬂowers of my dreams 1981—Chasme Baddoor have dried since I lost my sleep along with my lover. The nectar came to my lips and became the poison. The clouds may bring 1982—Akhand Saubhāgyavati the rain, the unkind wind may bring heat; let it rain now, since 1983—Kathā my mad mind cries. Where did these black clouds come from? 1984— Phulwāri, Kānoon Meri Mutthimein 1987—Sāt Sāl Bād 1997—Gangā Mānge Khoon etc. His music in Hindi song’s lyrics: “Kahān se āye badarā...” is given in the column to the right. (Note: The contents for this article are compiled from the news, books, internet and my knowledge & love for music.)

I welcome comments and suggestions for this page.

Kirit Shukla Contact him at kiritsshukla@hotmail.com

See this song on Nazar Television in March. Visit saathee.com for Nazar Television local listings. Saathee.com

March 2012

22K 916 Hallmark Jewelry Top quality Diamond Jewelry Silver Coins and Gifts 1GM Gold Designer Jewelry Exquisite Fine Gifts

Jewelers.com Pick up Discount Flyer in the Charlotte area at the Hindu Center or Grocery Stores.

877 ESHAAN1 (374-2261) 3581 Andrew L Tucker Rd Fort Mill, SC 29715 (Charlotte area) An Event for Charity www.vivaahmela.yolasite.com

Vivaah Mela Greensboro, NC April 28th, 2012

11:30 am - 5:00 pm GCAP hall, 127 Landmark Dr., GREENSBORO, NC 27409 Features:

• Opportunity to find your Jeevan Sathi in Vivaah Mela. • Opportunity of on the spot meets with candidates on request. • Opportunity to selection of your needs for vivah/wedding planning from best vendor. • Everything is simple & friendly. • Food will be provided. (only for participants in event) • Registration required. ($75.00 per candidate, $45.00 for parent). • All rights reserved, agenda subject to change without notice. • vendors welcome Saathee.com

Privilege also available with India based Vivaah Bureau to registered candidates. For more info & vendors:

Mayur 336-547-8686 www.vivaahmela.yolasite.com e-mail: mayur58@hotmail.com

March 2012

www.RealtorAnish.com

Broker

Licensed in nC & SC

We are in a challenging Real Estate Market, you need an experienced agent on your side. If you want to get the job done right, call me! Coming Soon - Piper Glen Executive Home in Prestigious Piper Glen. Over 6,500 sq. Ft. Golf and Water View. Over $700,000 Below Tax Value. Great Cul-De-Sac location. Every floor has Huge Balcony for enjoyment and entertainment. A Steal! Motivated Seller! Only $595,000

New Price - Weston Glen Pristine Weston Glen Home Offers Location, Location Location! Walk to Top Schools in Hot Ballantyne Area. Swim Club Neighborhood w/ Nearby Y. Perfect Plan w/ 5 Bedrooms & 3 Baths! Guest Bedroom Downstairs with Full Bath! Double Sided Fireplace for those Cold Winter Nights! Don't Miss This One! $284,900

LD O S

New Listing - Weston Glen Incredible 5 bedroom, 4 Full Bath Evanshire floor plan. 2 story great room, Gourmet Kitchen, Guest Bedroom and Full bath on the main Floor. Incredible, fenced-in Private backyard with Pavers, Huge Master Bedroom with wet bar. Beautiful Master Bath w/ Dual Vanities and separate Shower and Garden Tub. Large secondary bedrooms and closet space. This one is a Must See! Only $309,900

LD O S

New Listing - Weston Glen Amazing 5BR/4BA home w/open plan, neutral & beautiful. New Paint and Light Fixtures Through out. Huge kitchen w/island & 42'' Maple Cabinets. Big 2 Story great room, formals, king-sized master w/sitting room, Bedroom and Full Bath on Main Floor. Jack-nJill & 2nd guest bath up. Popular neighborhood w/swim club & playground. Walk to top schools & YMCA in upscale, convenient Ballantyne. A winner! $319,125

LD O S

Coming Soon - Cameron Wood Beautiful FULL Brick home with 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, Bonus Room, Huge Screened Porch, Incredible Location, cul-de-sacstreet. Many recent new upgrades. Call for the details and price!

New Listing- Marvin Creek Don't Miss This Beaut. 5 BDR 4BA Home in Prestigious Marvin Creek. Kit has 42" Cstm Cabnts w/ Grnte Countr Tops, SS Appliances, 2 Str Grt Rm, 3rd Floor Bonus/Rec Room w/ Surround Sound. H/W Floors, Plantation Shutters, Crown Molding, Central Vac, Intercom. Mstr Suite w/ Trey Ceilngs, Lrg Mstr Bath w/ Dual Van. & 4 walk-in Closets. Huge Fenced Flat Backyd w/ Irrig. Screened-in Porch & Nice Deck. $539,000

LD O S

www.RealtorAnish.com I can save you up to 50%! Call for details. I have SOLD most of my listing and am in need of new listings. If you are thinking of selling, please contact me! SHORT SALE - Timberlands Over 3,500 Sq. Ft., 5 Bedrooms, Almost $100,000 Below Purchased Price. OPEN FLOOR PLAN AND HARD TO FIND MASTER DOWN. IT HAS BOTH FORMALS, AND GREAT KITCHEN WITH A LOTS OF COUNTER SPACE. IT HAS 5 LARGE BEDROOMS WITH WALK-IN CLOSET ON .28 ACRE LOT. PROPERTY IS SOLD AS IS. PRICED TO SELL! DON'T MISS THIS GREAT OPPORTUNITY! Bank must approve the offer. Only $159,900 New Listing- Piper Glen - BASEMENT Pristine Basement Home on Wooded Lot shows Pride of Ownership. Bright & Neutral w lots of windows, Completely Updated Kitchen has New Grant Countertops, SS Appliances, Refin. Design Cabinets. Spacious Gr Rm w/ Built-ins & F/P, New Carpet on upper level, Lg Mstr Bedroom, Mstr Bath has New Frameless Shwr Door, Skylight, Dbl Vanities. Oversized Secondary Bedrooms, Lrg Clsts, $599,000

LD SO

Great Buying Opportunities Amazing Short Sales and Foreclosures available in Marvin Creek, Ballantyne Country Club, Longview, Brookhaven, Piper Glen, Firethorne Country Club etc. As much as 50-60% Below market value. Call for the latest listings and pricing!

New Price - Ashbrook

Beautiful, COMPLETELY remodeled home. 4 Bedrooms, 2 1/2 Baths, over 1,700 sq. ft., NEW Flooring, Cabinets, SS Appliances, Paint, Water Heater, HVAC system, Doors, Drywalls, Trims, Sinks, Etc. Nice big flat yard with a deck. Large Master Bedroom with a big walk-in closet. 3 spacious secondary bedrooms. 2-Car Attached Garage. Excellent Location A MUST SEE! Only $129,900 Lot in Gated Community 5 Minutes from Ballantyne. Low SC Taxes. All European Architecture. Gas Lanterns. Almost 1 Acre Lot. Bank approval needed, bring all offers. Build with builder of your choice when YOU are ready. There is no Time Limit to Build. Rental Beautiful Townhouse for Rent. 2 bedrooms and big Open loft, which can be turned in to a 3rd bedroom. 2 1/2 baths. Nice kitchen, Washer/Dryer/Refrigerator provided. High ceilings, Fireplace, patio. Must see. $975/month.

15235 John J. Delaney Dr. Charlotte, NC 28277

In Real Estate, Experience Counts! Serving the Carolinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Real Estate needs since 2000.

Anish Shah, B.S.E.E

Broker NC & SC

Cell: 704-449-LIST (5478) Licensed Assistant: Agatha Ochoa

FAX: 704-749-9558 ashah@helenadamsrealty.com www.RealtorAnish.com

Listeners and Connoisseurs of Music By Anita Kulkarni

Evolution of Carnatic music - a series By Smitha K. Prasad Dear readers, in this month’s column, we continue to look at the role of women, both composers and performers, in Canratic music. This time we focus on two other early women composers - Akka Mahadevi, who was one of the proponents of the 12th century Bhakti movement and Meerabai, another proponent of the Bhakti movement in North India. The Veerashaiva Bhakti movement came into existence around the 12th century to protest the existing social order in Hindu society. Akka Mahadevi was part of this movement that made her an inspiration for women, who were suppressed by society. Her poetry in Kannada called vacahanas spoke out against caste system and spoke of social and gender equality. These vachanas (about 400 in number) which are in praise of Lord Shiva are considered her greatest contribution to Kannada Bhakti literature. Having renounced her life of luxury, she lived as a wandering poet-saint. Akka Mahadevi, along with the other two Veerashaiva saints Allamaprabu and Basaveshwarah are considered the trinity of the Veerashaiva movement. Akka Mahadevi’s vachanas are included as part of a Carnatic music concert, usually in the tukkadas section. Of late, concerts based solely on vacahanas are gaining popularity due to their devotional meaning. Another exponent of the Bhakti movement in the northern part of India was the Rajput princess Meera. Despite being born in a royal family, Meera worshipped Lord Krishna, dancing and singing in the streets with gay abandon. For this, she was illtreated by her in-laws after the death of her husband. Meerabai’s poetry is in simple verse form in the Braj dialect and exudes complete surrender to the Lord. Meera bhajans are also a common inclusion in Carnatic music concerts. The popularity of Meera bhajans among Carnatic musicians soared after the legendary musician M. S. Subbulakshmi portrayed the character of Meera and sang a number of Meera bhajans in the 1945 film “Meera.” Till we meet next time, do try and listen to vacahanas of Akka Mahadevi as well as to renditions of Meera bhajans. The beauty of these compositions lies in their simplicity.

Music is a performing art. The performer is termed as an artist. He or she is a harbinger of tender feelings among the masses, who attend the performance. Among the audience or mass of listeners, there are certain groups that are always alert. Then there are persons, who “grace the occasion” and there are number of people who “just attend.” The performer is generally aware of the whole audience. Today’s topic is how to become a good listener. Naturally the subtopic is how to appreciate music. One has to be a patient listener, listening to music is also an art. Most of the listeners generally don’t understand the basics of it, but still enjoy because they may become attracted to some powerful force in music, which pleases and soothes their minds. It may be the magic or charisma an artist. It may be their voice or master of a musical instrument. It could be the attractive sound of the percussions or the total effect of the performance. A listener maybe musically affected enough to become a fan of the performer and a regular listener and follower. A “connoisseur” is a person who is especially competent to pass critical judgments in an art form or is a discerning judge of the best in any field. A true connoisseur will appreciate good Indian classical music only when he or she at least understands the basics, accumulates knowledge and has an open ear and mind for Indian classical art. Then only he can give positive or negative opinion publically. A critic should be a connoisseur, someone who gives overall thought and critique to the performance. One should know that a concert depends on many things like the performer, organizers, and acoustics of the venue, accompanists, audience, sound system, the occasion, and even weather conditions if it is an outdoor performance.

Anita Kulkarni Email:info@anitakulkarni.com

Welcome To The Wonderful World Of Travel At

Ttravel Guru Shakoon Panjwani 704-542-5315 Fax: 704-841-0748

E-mail: ttravelguru@hotmail.com

Consolidated Fares On Major Airlines Asia, Africa, Middle East, Europe and more. Tour Packages and Cruises • Taj Tours Within Europe Visa and Passport services

Smitha Prasad is a Carnatic vocalist based in Cary, NC Email: smitha_prasad@hotmail.com

8714 Darcy Hopkins Dr. Charlotte, NC 28277 Saathee.com

March 2012

Indian Performing Arts Association of Charlotte (IPAAC) vocal concert by

presents

Manjusha Kulkarni Patil

Jayateerth Mevundi

Saturday, March 31, 2012 6:00 PM

Saturday, May 5th, 2012 6:00 PM

CPCC, Central Campus

General Admission $25 IPAAC Members FREE

Additional Information: Please call 704-846-4423, 704-364-0984 Visit our website: www.ipaac.org

Saathee.com

vocal concert by

Additional Information: Please call 704-846-4423, 704-364-0984 Visit our website: www.ipaac.org

March 2012

Sahaja: Natural eye brow in a composed face. Patita: When eyebrows are at rest and then lowered. Utkshipta: When either one or both eyebrows are raised. Chatura: When both brows are moved and the expression is pleasant. Rechita: One brow is raised in a charming fashion. Kunchita: When one or both eye brows are arched/bent.

By Dr. Maha Gingrich Body Movements in Classical Dances

Griva-Bhedas The four major neck movements are: Sundari: Moving the head obliquely or to and fro horizontally. Tiraschina: An upward movement of the neck on both sides as though the face was forming the figure of horizontal 8. Parivartita: Neck moving from right to left suggesting the half moon. Prakampita: When the neck moves forward and backward in a thrusting motion like that of a she pigeon.

As classical Indian dance teachers in the USA, very seldom we get an opportunity to teach our students in-depth theory of the classical dance forms. Most of us meet once a week for an hour with our students. We focus on the adavus (fundamental techniques), items (dances), bhava (expressions) etc. Therefore, I decided to share the names of our dance movements and may be our students may get a chance to read this article just to label the moves they already execute during dances. Karanas and Angahaaras The combined and coordinated movement of the hands and feet is called Karana. The hands and feet move in unison and in perfect harmony in a Karana. The limbs of the body can be moved around in innumerable movements. While codifying the Karanas, the scholars have chosen only the 108 most expressive and charming movements of the limbs. There are many books written on Karana Prakaranam, Karana Viniyogam etc. They cover techniques and utilization of the poses and their sequence. The combined depiction of a group of three or more Karanas together is known as Angahaara. The identity of each of the Karanas employed is not disclosed but a coordinated movement of expression is portrayed in an Angahaara.

I know I introduced a lot of terminology but not its utilization. It is nice to know that these are structured movements being taught and practiced for centuries. The more we master these movements, better our story telling ability will be as a dancer.

For questions or comments contact Dr. Maha Gingrich via e-mail at: msgingrich@juno.com

Shiro-Bhedas The Shiro-Bhedas or head movements are classified into nine major parts. These are samam, udwahitam, adhomukham, alolitam, dhutam, kampitam, paravrttam, utkshiptam and parivahitam. Sama Siras: When the head is kept straight and motionless in a natural way. Udwahita Siras: When the face is raised up. Adhomukha Siras: When the face is bent down. Alolita Siras: When the head moves in a circle. Dhuta Siras: When the head is turned to and fro from left to right and from right to left. Kampita Siras: Moving the head up and down. Paravrtta Siras: When the head is turned away. Utkshipta Siras: When the head is turned to a side and raised. Parivahita Siras: If the head is moved from side to side.

RAJDEEP VIDEO & PHOTOGRAPHY

We do any occasion at very affor dable rates

Drishti-Bhedas There are eight classifications of glances called DrishtiBhedas. Saman: Gazing with eyes leveled unblinkingly. Alokitam: Swiftly turning the eyes round. Sachi: Looking out of the corners of the eyes obliquely without moving the head. Pralokitam: When the glance turns from side to side. Nimilitam: looking with eyes half open. Ullokitam: Looking up. Anuvruttam: Glancing quickly up and down. Avalokitam: Looking downwards.

We shoot in hi-def & provide your event on blu-ray or dvd. Weddings • Receptions • Birthdays Graduations • Social Gatherings 5 Over 2 f o s r a e y ence! Experi

336 847 0254

Email: Rickycrazy@aol.com Other services available :

Bhru-Bhedas There are six major classifications of eyebrow movements called Bhru-Bhedas. Saathee.com

Call RAMESH PANJABI

Sound System, DJ , Live Band, Karaoke, Tabla, Dhol, Drum Players... 30

March 2012

Happy Holi and Chetichand!

Open 7 Days a Week! Rajbhog Cafe of Morrisville 3607 davis drive, suite 111 Morrisville, nc 27560 Tel: 919.585.5333 fax: 866.509.1536 morrisville@rajbhog.com

Rajbhog of Charlotte, NC Pinnacle Point 9539 Pinnacle drive #100 charlotte, nc 28262 (3 Miles from ikea)

Tel: 704.909.7783 fax: 704.248.7705 charlotte@rajbhog.com

North Carolina

Charlotte, Morrisville

New York

Jackson Heights, Hicksville, Flushing

New Jersey

Jersey City, Iselin, Cherryhill GIFT IDEAS ALSO AVAILABLE ON THE WEB:

WWW.RAJBHOG.COM

Saathee.com

Georgia Atlanta

March 2012

a bandana onto which he had sewn photos of Suu Kyi and her father. He had come there for the chance to see her in person, but declined to give his name for fear that any association with the opposition could still carry punishment of some kind — a persistent fear carried over from a pre-reform Burma that hints at the leaps and bounds still ahead of the nascent democracy. Zi Mai Aung, a 36-year-old recently released political prisoner, says that as a teenager she hid Suu Kyi’s photograph under her mattress. Suu Kyi was released from house arrest in November of 2010, but only in recent months have newspapers been allowed to print her photograph. To young people, the memory of the 2007 Saffron Revolution — a series of non-violent anti-regime protests brought on by the government’s unannounced decision to remove fuel subsidies — remains fresh. They may not have risen up with Suu Kyi in 1988, but they appear as reverent as those who did. “She speaks the truth. She is not afraid of anybody,” said Sherry Win, 23, who brought her 1-year-old baby to the rally. “She’s our spiritual mother,” said Yi Mon Shein, a 24-year-old from Pathein in the delta, the area hit worst by Cyclone Nargis in 2008. “She sacrificed her family life for the people,” said Min Htut Win, referring to the fact that Suu Kyi was prevented from seeing her family while under house arrest. The 31-year-old goldsmith came two hours by boat to see the candidate in person for the first time in his life. As Suu Kyi’s entourage ran along irrigation canals in the blistering heat, her bodyguards sometimes held a parasol over her that was green like her shirt, a color representing regeneration. Since Suu Kyi is running to represent a poorer district of Rangoon — not to mention the fact that she is all but assured a win — her tour of the delta was less to gain voter support than it was to be among her people for the first time in decades. “Please don’t get between me and the people,” she told members of the media scrum threatening to engulf her SUV. In banners, T-shirts, and in living room portraits, Suu Kyi is often pictured next to her father, who was assassinated when she was 2. The two are considered heroes, though they stand for different things. Trained by the Japanese, Gen. Aung San is considered the father of modern Burma. He fought first alongside and then against the British. While he founded Burma’s army, his daughter espouses nonviolence. Widowed by a Tibetan scholar, she is a vocal advocate for the ethnic minorities that have been seeking autonomy from the Burmese military. One volunteer at the National League for Democracy headquarters is a 21-year-old from Kachin state. “She favors ethnic groups, and she always sets apart majority rule and minority rights,” said Su Htwe Naing, from Mohyin. “We admire her because of her ability, and because she wants to negotiate with the government for us.” What’s unclear is how her “people power” will translate once she’s on the inside, in the nation’s isolated political capital. Some activists object to her joining the parliament in an outnumbered position. Says Kyaw San Win, “Everybody wants her to be president. If you or I were in power, we might use the position to enrich ourselves. But she didn’t do that. She looks after the people, whatever she does. We need this kind of leader.” But what young people in Burma need is also up for debate. Some seem to be less concerned with politics than they are with economic development. “My dad says everything is changing. It’s happening fast,” said Bilal, 18. “But for me, no, it’s not fast enough, because all over the world people can get iPhone 4g and 4s. Why shouldn’t we?”

An Aging

Aung San Suu Kyi Appeals to Young Voters Though Burma’s pro-democracy darling is pushing 70, she still has the youth vote. By April Rabkin - GlobalPost.com PATHEIN, Burma — Carrying herself with regal poise earlier last month, Aung San Suu Kyi stuck her emerald-clad upper-half out the sunroof of a Mitsubishi Pajero. Burma’s pro-democracy darling waved gracefully as her motorcade steadily picked up followers, rumbling its way through the rice paddies of the Irrawaddy Delta toward a stadium where thousands more awaited her arrival. The Lady, as she is affectionately called, is back on the scene and making a splash. Released from house arrest in November 2010, Suu Kyi has become synonymous with a new Burma, one that is experiencing a host of new reforms that seem to appear one after another at a dizzying pace. In the last several weeks alone, Burma’s government has announced reforms ranging from cease-fires with ethnic minorities, some of whom have been fighting for independence for 60 years, to the relaxation of press censorship. And now with by-elections scheduled for April 1, 2012 Suu Kyi, leader of the National League for Democracy opposition party, is on the campaign trail for the first time since 1989. But unlike the supporters who backed her then — those who rose up alongside Suu Kyi during the 1988 protests, many of whom are now, like her, in their 60s — those lining the route Tuesday were mostly young men under the age of 30, who came of age while Suu Kyi was muzzled and under house arrest. Despite the fact that she rose to recognition with a previous generation, Suu Kyi appeals to the younger demographic in Burma now. This was not always a given. Apologists for the regime said she was an outdated vestige of a bygone time, and no longer held sway. But her appeal to Burma’s younger voters, as evidenced by those who came out to see her in the delta’s Pathein on Tuesday, suggests that not only will she win a seat in parliament, but that she remains a powerful and influential figure with widespread support in Burma. Just ask Lin Lin, a 31-year-old with a Nirvana “Nevermind” tattoo. “Yes, she is cool. She makes jokes. She can talk with anyone,” said Lin Lin, who is a member of Generation Wave, an activist hip-hop group recently returned from exile. “To me, her following means there is still a sense of heroism in Burmese politics,” he said. The fact that Suu Kyi’s image was forbidden for most of the past two decades while she was under house arrest seems to have made it more appealing to many of today’s young adults. “I would stand between her and a gun. Almost anyone would say the same,” said another supporter, a young man who wore Saathee.com

March 2012

Happy Holi!

Special Discounts Available* Great Gift Ideas!

open 7 dayS a week 11am - 7 pm

*See store for details

Gift Certificates Available!

w w w. k ay a d e s i g n s . n e t

Your TOTAL Car Care Specialist! al Journ uirerq n E W A RD The ICE A O o. H C nion c ER S READ 5 years in U rail, T st for pa roe, Indian n (Mo haw) & Wax

Great Service! Great Prices! 2 Locations!

ALL CAR CARE

We can answer your questions in Gujarati, Hindi, Punjabi, Spanish & English.

From Charlotte: Hwy 74 East, Right on Williams Rd. & Right on Nelda. See Map for Details

All Car Care 2

2518 nelda Dr.

Monroe, NC 28110

Citgo Gas

Blvd.)

Williams Rd.

CVS Pharmacy

(Off Hwy 74)

Hwy 74 (Roosevelt

Second location 2518 Nelda Dr.

Griffin Motor Co.

Original location 610-B W. Roosevelt Blvd (Hwy 74) Monroe, NC 28110

Distount Tire

Tune-ups • Oil Change • Brake Service • Inspection • Transmission • Engine Service & Repair • Tires • Air Condition & Cooling System Service & More! Authorized Dealer for Most Extended Warranties • Domestic, Foreign Trucks,Vans, RV’s, and 4x4’s Free Shuttle Service (up to 10 miles) • ASE Certified Technicians Financing Available • Free Estimates • Appointments Available

Charlotte

(704) 283-8687 / 24 hours (704) 254-2573 Quality Oil Change & Lube $15

P.K. Patel Owner

Includes: • Change Oil (10W30 Multi-Grade) • Up to 5 Quarts of Oil • Replace oil filter & Lubricate chassis Most cars. With coupon only. Expires 4.05.12

Engine Tune-Up $25 • 4 Cylinder $35 • 6 Cylinder $45 • 8 Cylinder (Hard to tune - Extra) Call For Services Provided. W/ coupon only. Expires 4.05.12

Front or Rear Brake Service $50

Includes: • Install new disc brake pads only • Inspect master cyl & brake hoses • Inspect rotors (turning additional) • Add fluid as needed • test drive vehicle • Semi-metallic pads only • Some foreign cars/trucks add’l. With coupon only. Expires 4.05.12

Transmission Tune-up $50 Includes: • Free road Test • Adjust Linkage • Clean Screen (includes filter, fluids & labor!) With coupon only. Expires 4.05.12

Access One Realty

Paving Your Access to the Future Businesses Available for Sale Listing Code

Business

Location near

Price ‘000

Gross ‘000

Cash Flow ‘000

(GH) (RB) (ND) (CV) (IK) (CQ) (UH) (LV) (FH) (RN) (UH) (ST) (NL) (KK) (ND) (BJ) (RB)

C-store with RE Laundromat C-store with RE C-store Leased C-store Leased C-store Leased C-store with RE C-store leased C-store with RE C-store Leased C-store Leased C-store Leased C-store Leased C-store Leased C-store Leased Tanning, Leased Laundromat

Henderson, NC Durham, NC Henderson, NC Creedmoor, NC Kinston, NC Claremont NC Rocky Mnt, NC Louisburg, NC Holly Spring, NC Roanoke Rpd, NC Rocky Mnt, NC Thomasville, NC Nebo, NC Pittsboro, NC Henderson, NC High Point, NC Durham, NC

599 375 299 250 199 179 149 130 99 80 49 39 20 10 10 39 25

2,517 106 596 2,654 2,855 1,729 540 1,364 307 899 540 1,627 1,008 632 596 46 106

180

Saathee.com

69 114 180 144 120 90 81 120 60 64 50 69 5

Business Broker & Loan Broker One-Stop Shop

Customer Satisfaction & Confidentiality is our goal! Chandravadan Shah Broker-In-Charge

919-439-5483 cs.real@gmail.com

Motel, Convenience Stores Gas Stations, Dry Cleaning, Laundromat, Office, Land, Retail, Apartments, Foreclosures, Homes, etc.

March 2012

“There is a sort of Shakespearean irony about this,” reflected Paul Roberts, Nasheed’s communications advisor. In the meantime, Nasheed supporters and security forces clashed throughout the islands. The level of violence, unprecedented in the islands’ modern history, has left citizens reeling. In Male, the nation’s capital, police descended on peaceful demonstrators with brutal zeal, their actions captured and broadcast on television. Elsewhere on the islands, Nasheed supporters torched police stations and criminal courts, burning them to the ground. A cautionary tale At least 70 MDP supporters were rounded up and detained for the many nascent in one of the southern atolls, with reports of beatings in revolutionary movements custody. “Wednesday was a very dark day,” Roberts said, speaking across the Arab world. Feb. 11 from an undisclosed location. By Mather Sattar - GlobalPost.com Over the weekend, Nasheed refused a US call for the formation of a unity government. He now insists that there be BANGKOK, Thailand — Mohamed Nasheed woke up last a quick election to solve the crisis, and has threatened to take month the president of Maldives, one of the world’s premier to the streets in the absence of one. honeymoon destinations. A little over 24 hours later, he was ducking into a Asian precursor to the Arab Spring convenience store in a desperate attempt to hide from the Regardless of whether it was a coup or not — Nasheed said security forces he had commanded the day before. it wasn’t immediately after stepping down and has since A bizarre video, apparently filmed by the storeowner, shows changed his tune — or whether Nasheed regains his post as customers going about their shopping while police dressed in president, this has been an ignominious end to a onceriot gear storm in and drag out Nasheed and Mariya Ahmed promising beginning. Didi, the former chairperson of Nasheed’s Maldivian The previous incumbent, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, ruled Democratic Party (MDP). the islands with an iron fist for 30 years, but was defeated by It has been a bad week for the man viewed by many in the Nasheed in the country’s first ever free elections in 2008. international community as a godfather of the Arab Spring. “Euphoric,” Ahmed said, remembering the mood in the Nasheed was lauded as an activist who managed to capital when Gayoom stepped down. galvanize a protest movement and topple a longstanding Ahmed, who knows Nasheed personally from their time corrupt and autocratic regime in his Muslim-majority country, working together in the democracy movement, said “people much like the crowds in Tahrir Square. The feeling throughout respected Nasheed for his courage.” the nation, which is made up of 1,200 islands, when Nasheed Nasheed was widely admired for facing up to the regime, came to power in 2008 was described as “euphoric.” enduring prison time and beatings for the cause of bringing But after three years of his rule, a disgruntled populace tired democracy to the islands. In the aftermath of the wave of of continued corruption and protests sweeping the Middle East last year, many observers empty promises was ready to pointed to Nasheed’s movement as a precursor to the Arab turn on him, a stark warning Spring. “There is a sort of to the nascent revolutionary “I think there are similarities one can draw,” Roberts said. Shakespearean irony movements across the Arab “Maldives is a 100 percent Muslim country, with an about this,” reflected Paul world. authoritarian ruler for 30 years, and a young population that The final straw came when was very frustrated and forced Gayoom’s hand to allow reform. Roberts, Nasheed’s Nasheed detained the chief Until three or four days ago it was a model actually for getting communications advisor. justice of the criminal court, it right. Maldives was doing well in Amnesty reports, Reporters Abdulla Mohamed, a figure without Borders reports, lauded in US State Department viewed as being partial to the reports.” previous regime. When Nasheed’s security forces picked up But the parallels are not all positive, something Nasheed Judge Abdulla, many saw it as a brazen transgression of the himself noted in an op-ed he wrote for the New York Times rule of law. Quickly, the public took to the streets against following his resignation. Nasheed. “Let the Maldives be a lesson for aspiring democrats After the arrest, there were three weeks of increasingly volatile everywhere: the dictator can be removed in a day, but it can protests against him, culminating when Nasheed resigned on take years to stamp out the lingering remnants of his Tuesday, Feb. 7 on live television. On Feb. 8, he claimed that it dictatorship,” he wrote. had been a coup, that he had been forced to resign at gunpoint, Roberts concurs. “The irony now is that even when you get which those in power now deny. On Feb. 9, an arrest warrant it right, say compared to the mess today in Egypt, they [the was issued for him, although it has not been acted on yet. previous regime] can still come back and get you,” he said. By Feb. 10, his family had fled to Sri Lanka. Over the weekend his successor Waheed Hassan — the man who had The populist who wasn’t popular been Nasheed’s vice president — called him a dictator. Nasheed has been a darling of the international community, Following Nasheed’s resignation Judge Abdulla has returned viewed as the nice guy who finally finished first. But according to his role, and has now turned the tables by issuing an arrest continued on page 80 warrant for Nasheed. Creative Commons wikimedia

Maldives Coup:

Saathee.com

Mohamed Nasheed, Godfather of the Arab Spring, falls from grace

March 2012

North Carolina Market Eagle Gaming contact Sam 706-587-6182

* New slim line Machine * Newest Games * Multiple Games Per Machine * Machine available for : C-Store, Bars,Billiard Rooms * Entertaining & Colorful Animations * No Hidden Contracts or Terms * Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed

South Carolina Market Global Gaming contact Sam 706-587-6182

We continue our journey toward the 2012 elections. This month our theme is “involvement.” Political involvement is key in constructing and evolving governments. The NC INPAC, highlighted below, is a place to start to ﬁnd like-minded fellow Indian-Americans who want become involved deeper into the workings of American politics. We will highlight other organizations in future issues.

cultural interactions between North Carolina and India. Activism: Champion issues affecting the welfare of IndianAmericans in North Carolina. NC INPAC has conducted fund-raising events for Gubernatorial, Congressional and State legislature candidates. It has established a representation platform for North Carolina’s Indian-American community and promoted unbiased approach in driving the Indian-American community towards making well-informed judgments in elections. An upcoming event: NCINPAC will hold a reception in honor of Mayor Pat McCrory, who is seeking the Republican nomination for the North Carolina Governor’s race in 2012. The reception is scheduled for Sunday, April 22, 2012. For further details visit www.nc-inpac.org.

Political Action Committee

Voter Registration Deadlines: South Carolina: October 6, 2012 A Political Action Committe is an organization formed by Georgia: October 8, 2012 business, labor, or other special-interest groups to raise money North Carolina: October 12, 2012 and make contributions to the campaigns of political candidates Virginia: October 15, 2012 whom they support. The 2010 election marked the rise of a new political committee, dubbed “super PACs,” and officially Get Involved known as “independent-expenditure only committees,” which North Carolina Democratic Party (www.ncdp.org) can raise unlimited sums from corporations, unions and other North Carolina Republican Party (www.ncgop.org) groups, as well as wealthy individuals. The super PACs were Libertarian Party of North Carolina (www.lpnc.org) made possible by two court rulings, including one earlier in North Carolina Green Party (www.ncgreenparty.org) 2010 by the Supreme Court, that lifted many spending and contribution limits. The groups can also mount the kind of South Carolina Democratic Party (www.scdp.org) direct attacks on candidates that were not allowed in the past, South Carolina Republican Party (www.scgop.org) pouring millions of dollars into negative ads. Super PACs are South Carolina Libertarian Party (sclibertarians.net) not allowed to coordinate directly with candidates or political South Carolina Green Party (www.scgreenparty.org) parties and must disclose their donors. Party National Conventions Libertarian National Convention: May 4 – 6, 2012 (Las Vegas, NV) Green Party National Convention: July 12 – 15, 2012 (Baltimore, MD) Republican National Convention: August 27 – 30, 2012 (Tampa, FL) Democratic National Convention: September 3 – 6, 2012 (Charlotte, NC) The general election is Tuesday, November 6, 2012. Many states will be holding early voting. Look for the dates in future issues of Saathee. North Carolina Indian - American Political Action Committee (NC INPAC) NC INPAC was organized to promote political awareness and involvement among the Indian-American North Carolinians by providing a platform that mobilizes the community to contribute to, and actively participate in the North Carolina political process. The group seeks to leverage Indian-Americans via community activism and financial strength tied to issues affecting the Indian-American community through a unifying organization. NC INPAC is a registered, nonprofit, unaffiliated and an independent organization. The objectives of NC INPAC include but are not limited to, the following: Advocacy: Promoting political, business, social and cultural interests of Indian-American North Carolinians through representation in the State, County, and City governments. Collaboration: Promote and Facilitate political, business and Saathee.com

Upcoming Republican Presidential Primaries and Caucuses • March 3 Washington Caucuses (43 delegates) • March 6 (super Tuesday) Alaska Caucuses (27 delegates) Georgia Primary (76 delegates) Idaho Caucuses (32 delegates) Massachusetts Primary (41 delegates) North Dakota Caucuses (28 delegates) Ohio Primary (66 delegates) Oklahoma Primary (43 delegates) Tennessee Primary (58 delegates) Vermont Primary (17 delegates) Virginia Primary (49 delegates) Wyoming Caucuses (29 delegates) • March 10 Guam Caucuses (9 delegates) • March 10 Kansas Caucuses (40 delegates) • March 10 Virgin Islands Caucuses (9 delegates) • March 13 Alabama Primary (50 delegates) • March 13 American Samoa Caucuses (9 delegates) • March 13 Hawaii Caucuses (20 delegates ) • March 13 Mississippi Primary (40 delegates) • March 17 Missouri Caucuses (52 delegates) • March 18 Puerto Rico Caucuses (23 delegates) • March 20 Illinois Primary (69 delegates) • March 24 Louisiana Primary (46 delegates) • April 3 Maryland Primary (37 delegates) • April 3 Texas Primary (155 delegates) • April 3 Washington, D.C. Primary (16 delegates) • April 3 Wisconsin Primary (39 delegates) March 2012

Aura and more... GRAnD OPEnInG OF 2nD lOCATIOn at north lake Mall, March 9th Between Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollisters

Featuring fashion jewelry and accessories!

FREE GIFT

ON OPENING WEEKEND March 9, 10 and 11 (North Lake location only).

New Collection Just Arrived!

25% OFF on select items with Saathee ad .*

The Latest Fashions You’ve Been Waiting For!

Long Anarkali Churidars, Pakistani Suits & more! BRIDAL COLLECTIONS, LEHENGAS, CASUAL & PARTYWEAR SUITS, TRADITONAL SAREES, DESIGNER SAREES, BROCADE BLOUSES, KURTIS, CHURIDAR SETS, SILVER & FASHION JEWELRY, BANGLES, STOLLS, SCARVES, AND SKIRTS, CUSTOM FITTINGS & ALTERATIONS.

We carry large and extra-large sizes.

ou y g n i Wish py Holi! a Hap W

seau s u o r g T advance. eddin n

i taken etails s r e d r o ll for d Ca

March Specials 25% OFF on select items!* 8236 Cottsbrooke Dr. Huntersville, NC 28078 Open Seven Days a Week BY APPOINTMENT ONlY Contact Shruti Arora 704.992.5775 Cell: 980.621.4439 AuraAndMore.com auraandmore@gmail.com Exchange purchases within 7 days. No refunds after 7 days.

*All Sales Final. No additional discount. No price adjustment on prior purchases. Cash & Checks only. Restriction may apply. Ends 3.31.12

By Swapna Krishna The World We Found Author: Thrity Umrigar (Harper) In college, Laleh, Kavita, Nishta, and Armaiti were the closest of friends. They were young and idealistic, sharing political views and supporting each other in the knowledge that as individuals, they could change the world. Thirty years later, they have each settled into their own lives; Laleh is married to her college sweetheart Adish, while Kavita hides the fact that she is a lesbian from those closest to her. Nishta has disappeared from the group of friends with her Muslim husband Iqbal. But when Armaiti calls from the United States with the news that she has a brain tumor, the friends must come together once again, for the last time. “The World We Found” is a beautiful novel full of lingering hope and the despair of facing what life has become. When these women were in college, they lifted each other up when their country was trying to tear them down. They were closer than friends, perhaps even closer than family - they were comrades. Through the prism of these four women, Umrigar examines the complicated nature of female friendships. Despite everything they experienced, each still held something back from the others. It’s an amazingly nuanced and realistic portrayal of how women’s friendships work, and the loss and loneliness that results in not being able to fully share yourself with those closest to you. One of the main themes running through “The World We Found” is that of religion. After Nishta married Iqbal, she disappeared into Muslim society, though she was originally Hindu. When Kavita and Laleh go looking for her, they are shocked at what they find; over the years, Iqbal has transformed from the genial man they knew into a cold and unyielding person who places his religion above all else and rigidly controls his wife’s actions. He could easily have been made a caricature of a fundamentalist Muslim, yet Umrigar doesn’t let the reader judge that easily. She takes the reader into Iqbal’s head and makes the reader see the horrible things he’s experienced and the small solace he finds in his religion. Just as many have judged all Muslims to be a certain way, Iqbal does the same of Hindus, assuming they disdain and disrespect him. It’s incredibly interesting to see stereotypes turned on their heads and is very thought provoking. Umrigar gives each of these women - Nishta, Kavita, Armaiti, and Laleh - their own distinct personalities and voices. There are multiple narrators in this novel, and it could have easily become confusing, discerning who is telling the story at any given point. Yet Umrigar took such care with her characters, giving each of them a memorable personality, whether vibrant and brash like Laleh’s or subdued and repressed like Nishta’s, such that it’s easy to tell them apart. Umrigar thrusts the reader into these women’s heads as she reveals their deepest thoughts; they become friends, rather than mere characters on a page. Saathee.com

“The World We Found” also delves into turbulent periods of Indian history; the social and political unrest of the 1970s, as well as the Hindu-Muslim riots of the early ‘90s. The reader really gets a sense of the uncertainty of these time periods, especially through Iqbal’s eyes. While what he experiences could drive a person to the deepest depths of despair, the novel is never despondent. It deals with difficult issues, harsh realities of life, but it is not depressing or heavy. It is ultimately a beautiful, uplifting novel that tells us that even in the darkest times, there is always the light of friendship and love. This is one of those books that could be discussed for days, as readers dissect the characters, situations, and issues presented within it. I’ve only scratched the surface with this review. As a result, it would make an excellent book club pick. Umrigar fans shouldn’t hesitate to pick this book up, but it has such broad appeal that I would recommend it to almost anyone. Whether you’re a fan of novels about women’s friendships, cultural fiction, current events, difficult religious issues, or are just looking for a book that has unfathomable depths along with a lot of heart, I can’t recommend “The World We Found” highly enough. Instant City: Life and Death in Karachi Author: Steve Inskeep (The Penguin Press) In his book, Steve Inskeep chronicles the rise of Karachi, Pakistan, what he terms an “instant city.” In 1941, before the Partition of India and Pakistan, Karachi was a city of just 350,000 people. Only seventy years later, its population is over thirty million. Inskeep discusses the history of this vibrant Pakistani city, focusing on what this rapid growth has meant for Karachi. Steve Inskeep uses Karachi as a lens for the “instant city,” a phenomenon that is occurring all over the world. With the rise of the urban, rural dwellers in third world countries are fleeing to cities in the hope of finding a better life. Instead, what they find is an overcrowded metropolis that cannot support the number of people that have flocked to it. Inadequate sewer systems, a lack of housing, and bad public transportation are just a few of the problems these instant cities, never given the chance to develop organically as other cities, face today. Karachi is somewhat unique in the phenomenon of instant cities because it must also face religious and sectarian violence. Inskeep uses this, and specifically a bombing of a Shi’a religious event, as a prism to discuss the problems, both historical and modern, that plague Karachi. For example, many of the shop owners whose properties were destroyed wonder if the bombing wasn’t politically motivated, as a way to remove the shops in order to build lucrative high rise apartments. It’s an incredibly interesting discussion, and a good indication of the corruption present in the Pakistani political structure. Though continued on page 82 Swapna Krishna Read more book reviews on her blog at www.skrishnasbooks.com

March 2012

I Believe in the Value of Relationships. I view every client relationship like a partnership and truly believe that my success is a result of your success.

Rajarshi Desai CPA, PLLC

11111 Carmel Commons Blvd. Carmel Park 1 Building Suite #155 Charlotte, NC 28226

704.541.9966 or 917.612.1489 (cell) Fax: 704.541.9816

E-mail: rd@rajdesaicpa.com Member: American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and NYSSCPA

I am committed to providing close, personal attention to my clients. I take pride in giving you the assurance that the personal assistance you receive comes from 15 years of my public accounting experience including several years of Big 4 accounting firm’s advanced training, technical experience and financial acumen. My continual investment of time and resources in professional continuing education and extensive business relationships is indicative of my commitment to excellence. Saathee.com

• Audit Representation and Tax Resolution to 100% clients satisfaction before federal, state and local tax authorities, including filing past year returns • Review for possible Federal or State income tax exposure • Monthly Bookkeeping Services. • Payroll and Sales Tax preparation and Compliance. • Financial reviews and compilation including compliance testing. • Corporate, partnership, individual, trust and estate tax consulting, planning and compliance. • Mergers and acquisition reviews including business valuations. • Comprehensive business services in accounting and auditing. • Management information systems consulting and technology implementation services. March 2012

don’t really have much vocal skills to showcase in this irritating composition. The lyrics are quite trashy, too. “Superman—Remix” (4.05) is a tad bit better than the original in maintaining interest…but only a tad bit. The awesome Master Saleem takes the mic in “Danke Ki Chot” (3.53)! A cool, peppy bhangra track, the song works solely because of the enthusiasm Master Saleem renders all the lines with. Shweta Pandit does a decent job, as well, although she doesn’t have many lines to croon to leave a lasting impression. “Danki Ki Chot—Duet” (4.51) works well, too, offering a different attitude with lovely tabla arrangements and a slower tempo at the beginning. 1.23 into the song Daler Mehndi also joins in, adding more Punjabi tadka. The duet version works better than the original, as seems as the case with most of the songs in this soundtrack. Sachin Gupta and Monali Thakur try to breathe some melody into the soundtrack with “Tu Ru TuRu Tu” (3.53). But it all seems too forced where the singers trying to be too cutesy with their vocals and a few too many “na-na-na’s” to the point it all sounds nagging. Lyrics are ordinary, too. Overall, Will You Marry Me? Is worth a listen, for sure— “Kalma” and “Soniye” should make it to your playlist for this month, and “Danke Ki Chot” deserves a few listens, as well!.

By Amanda Sodhi Will You Marry Me? Original Soundtrack By Amanda Sodhi It’s the usual case of a film soundtrack with non-superstars in the cast slipping under the radar yet again. I’m talking about the soundtrack of Aditya Datt’s (Good Luck!, Dil Diya Hai, Aashiq Banaya Aapne: Love Takes Over) upcoming film Will You Marry Me? Featuring Shreyas Talpade (Om Shanti Om, Welcome to Sajjanpur, Dor, Iqbal), the talented Rajeev Khandelwal (Aamir, Soundtrack), Mugdha Godse (Jail, Fashion), Celina Jaitley (Thank You, Golmaal Returns, No Entry) and Muzamil Ibrahim (Dhoka), the romantic comedy revolves around a beach wedding. The soundtrack consists of eight tracks out of which two are remixes. Sharib-Toshi (Raaz: The Mystery Continues, Jashnn) and Sachin Gupta (Chalo Dilli, Prince) work their magic as composers and Shabbir Ahmed (Wanted, Bodyguard) contributes to the lyrics department. There are barely any reviews of the soundtrack, so, well, here goes! “Kalma” (5.53) has the Sharib-Toshi stamp all over it, with vocals by Toshi Sabri, and it surely works, no doubt. The young duo is carving a niche for their work slowly and steadily with their Sufi rock compositions. Guest lyricist Turaz offers breezy lyrics that flow well—“tere naam kaa kalmaa paddhtaa hoon… chalti saansein ruk jaati hai jab yaad teri mujhe aa jaati hai… Aankhon mein tujhko bhar ke, Jee uthtaa hoon main marr ke.” The composition is oozing with energy. There is also “Kalma—Remix” (4.46) which is pretty good for a remix—the use of the violin is very pretty. Although, oddly enough, the original is probably more danceable than the “remix” version! “Soniye” (4.45) is another strong composition in Will You Marry Me?’s soundtrack, thanks to the amazing Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. He may not be a Nusrat, but there is no denying Rahat’s vocals are also quite distinct, captivating and soulful. A melancholic composition, the melody is very engaging and easy on the ears. The lyrics might not be earth-shattering but get the point across in a simple yet beautiful manner, and Rahat’s earnest vocals do complete justice to the lines—“Sar pe meelon dhoop hai, Chaaon naa hai kahin raah mein. Tapti reit pe phirte hain hum toh teri hi chaah mein. Kyun mere toote khwaab ko maujo ne saahil pe laa diya? Ab toh khudaa se hai duaa mere pyaar ka kar de haq adaa…Sohneya, dil toddna hi thaa toh bataa dil kyun lagaaya?” “Superman” (4.00) is a bit of an amateur attempt to be a club number. Not much of a memorable techno track. Talented vocalists Sukhwinder Singh, Kshitij Tarey and Jaspreet Jasz Saathee.com

Amanda Sodhi is a Bollywood journalist, lyricist, screenwriter, and PR/marketing practitioner based in Los Angeles.

DJ LaLit Entertainment For All Occasions WIDe SeLeCtIon oF MuSIC Hindi, Bhangra, Hip Hop, Dance, Disco, Pop, & More State of the Art Sound System & Lighting nationally & Internationally Acclaimed entertainer Any CeLeBrAtIon BIG or SMALL

Weddings • Anniversaries• Birthdays • Graduations Bridal/Baby showers • House Parties • Corporate Parties

Looking to rent equipment for your next event? Call to inquire about rental options

For Bookings or Inquires Contact

704.299.3610 LHemnani@Gmail.com

March 2012

Baba Ramdev

HeALtH PRoduCtS

Authentic Malaysian, Chinese & Indian Cuisine

an exclusive ayurvedic and Homeopathy store. we carry Patanjali, divya, Himalaya, dabur, Hesh and many more brands. you can order online or call us to place the orders.

Vegetarian Selection Available Dine-In, Take-Out and Catering Now Open in South Charlotte P: 704.541.6668 P: 704.541.6666 F: 704.541.6661

inside global Mall - atlanta

Arboretum Shopping Center

8200-400 Providence rd., Charlotte, NC 28277

5675 Jimmy carter blvd suiTe 535 norcross, ga 30071

Malayakitchen.com

Phone: 678-534-5423

www.ramdevProducts.com

HOurS: Monday - Thursday 11am - 11pm Friday - Saturday 11am - 12am | Sunday 11am - 10pm

Pre-K Music (Ages 3-5), Rock Band Group (Ages 7-18) Drums, Violin & Piano - Starting at Age 4

Fun Instrument Marathon Class: Pick 1 Instrument per week!

Saathee.com

March 2012

Why did the golfer wear two pairs of pants? In case he got a hole in one! What is green and smells like paint? Green paint.

Word World

Why do bananas wear sunscreen? They peel.

By Kirit Shukla

L V

E R

What kind of teeth can you buy with a dollar? Buck teeth!

What did the judge say to the racquet? We will send you to court!

What’s a turtle’s favorite dance? Slow dance. Harold and Sally have three kids, half of them are boys. How is this possible? They are all boys. It didn’t say there were any girls.

Make words using 4 or more letters. The central letter must be used in each word. Use all letters for the subject word. 26 + words = Excellent; 16 to 25 words = Good; 15 or less needs to improve. (Solution at bottom of page)

Why was the elephant scared to use the computer? Because there was a mouse attached to it. Why did Robert take a ladder to his school? He was studying in a high school.

Dadaji’s Story # 11 A working man in India owned a donkey. The donkey’s name was Gaddu and it worked hard throughout the whole day. At night his master left him free to roam and graze in the farms. Once Gaddu met a fox and made him a friend. Every night they used to eat whatever they liked. Once, in a moonlit night, Gaddu was impressed and wanted to sing. He said to the fox: “I wish to sing. Can you suggest a good song?” The fox cautioned him and said, “Do not think of singing because we are in a farm without the permission from the farmers. If you sing, we will be caught and it will mean big trouble for us. Moreover your voice is loud and not pleasant to hear.” But Gaddu was in a singing mood. He said to the fox, “I think you don’t like music. Hear me sing and you will love it.” “Just a moment”, said the fox, “Let me go away and hide in the bush. So, I can escape from there when the farmers come.” Gaddu lifted up his face and started braying very loudly. The farmers were sleeping in their nearby huts and they woke up because of the loud voice. They lost their sleep. They got mad, grabbed sticks and went to the place where Gaddu was braying. The farmers clubbed him and beat him with the sticks and put a heavy iron ring around his neck. The fox saw that and ran away. Next night when the fox saw Gaddu with a heavy iron ring around his neck, he said, “It seems you have been awarded a medal for singing. When I advised you not to sing, you refused to listen to me. So you got into trouble.” Question: Why was Gaddu beaten up? Moral: When your friend gives you right advice, listen to him. And think before you act anything stupid.

Word World (Solution): ARES, ARSE, AVER, AVERY, EARLY, EARS, EASY, LARES, LARVE, LEAR, LEVY, RALE, RASE, RAVE, RAVEL, REAL, SAVE, SAVEY, SEAL, SEAR, SLAVE, SLAVERY, VALE, VEAL, VERY, YALE, YEAR

DJ Hangama DJ Service • Emcee • PA system • lighting Make your once in a lifetime function an unforgettable event!!! Mehndi • Garba • Baraat • Weddings Reception • Birthdays • Graduations

MuSIC COllECTIOn Hindi Remixes, Bhangra, Garba, Hip-Hop, Top 40 Our Presence at your occasion is considered an invitation that we take very seriously

Riddles:

For Booking Contact DJ Hangama (919) 389-3770 Website: www.djhangama.com E-mail: info@djhangama.com

What famous prize do cats win? The A-CAT-emy awards! Why are fish so easy to weigh? They have their own scales. Saathee.com

March 2012

serving north, south indian and indo-chinese dishes (Veg & non-Veg)

704-549-1886 or 704-512-9177 9510 uniVersity city blVd. suite 101 ChArLOTTE, NC 28213

Place your order on-line at

www.PassageToIndiaNC.com WE SErvE hALAL MEAT

Lunch Buffet: $6.99 Weekend Brunch Buffet: $9.99

over 30 items including Pani Poori, bhel,chat Papdi, Pav bhaji, idli,medu Wada, sambar,Vegetable chowmein,chilli chicken, tandoori mix Grill,Goat curry & more

We Serve Fresh Dosa on Table

for all your CATErING needs contact Andy @ 704-512-9177 or Passagetoindiaclt@gmail.com Lunch Buffet: Mon to Fri (11 - 3) & Sat & Sun (11:30 - 3:30) Dinner: Sun - Thurs: (5 - 10) & Fri - Sat (5 - 11)

TAkEOuT SPECIAL

15% Off take out only. cannot be combined with any other coupons. other restrictions may apply. must present coupon. exp: 4/05/12

WE DELIvEr

(INCLuDES LuNCh BOxES) minimum order $20. Within 5 mile radius only. no couPons or discounts. restrictions aPPly.

DINE IN SPECIAL

Get $5 Off

WhEN SECOND ENTrĂŠE Of EquAL Or GrEATEr vALuE IS PurChASED.

cannot be combined any other offer one couPon Per table. must Present couPon. excludes buffet, indo-chinese & south indian exP 4/05/12

g. Are involved in something difficult, powerful and potentially dangerous

Mastering Meaning

h. They are facing the threat of poverty. i. A disappointment, an underachiever j. It seems powerful but it is not.

By Judith L. Bergman M.A. CCC

k. Moved along in a curving path l. Prefers to do things by himself

“March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb” is a description that is familiar to all native speakers of English. Incorporating two similes (comparisons), this says that March usually starts out windy and stormy and ends up with warm and sunny with gentle breezes i.e. wild in the beginning and gentle at the end. In our soon-to-be published book with the same title as this monthly column, Chapter 9, Birds, Bees, Horses and Fish, features quizzes that ask the reader to match a variety of idioms and other figurative expressions with those animal references, to their meanings. If this month’s column finds its way into a second edition of Mastering Meaning: Harnessing the Power of American English, it might be titled “The Wild and the Tame.” Match the idioms in the sentences below to the list of meanings that follow, using context clues. 1

m. It is better to be the leader of a less prestigious group than to be a subordinate in a more prestigious one. n. A high-pitched whistle made by men when a very attractive woman walks by Suggested strategies to increase your mastery of meaning this month: Select feature articles and news articles from a newspaper or magazine and underline all the idiomatic uses of lion, wolf, tiger, lamb, sheep and snake. References: 1, http://www.idioms.thefreedictionary.com/ Answers: 1-e, 2-m, 3-a, 4-d, 5-h, 6-b, 7-l, 8-n, 9-g, 10-j, 11-c, 12-f, 13-i, 14-k.

1. Because of their clever marketing, the company won the lion’s share of the plumbing business in town. ____

Judith L. Bergman M.A CCC is the director of Triangle Speech Services specializing in foreign accent modification. Contact: jlbergman@mindspring.com or 919-489-5464 www.trianglespeech.com

2. He said he took the management position in the small company rather than a technical job in the corporation because, “It’s better to be the head of a dog than the tail of a lion.” ____ 3. My son and his friends were so hungry after the game that they wolfed down three pizzas in ten minutes. ____ 4. Don’t be alarmed. He is just crying wolf again. ____

Rajdeep Mandap

5. They both lost their jobs and have almost depleted their savings. The wolf is at their door. ____

Wedding Services

6. The new boss seemed very friendly and charming but turned out to be a wolf in sheep’s clothing. ____ 7. He doesn’t do well in our team projects because he’s a lone wolf. ____ 8. Wolf whistles are politically incorrect. ____ 9. I’m afraid that you have a tiger by the tail. ____ 10. Is the new government really going to be able to stabilize that country or is it just a paper tiger? ____ 11. She said she would be back in two shakes of a lamb’s tail. ____ 12. The other team was much bigger and better and our boys went onto the field like lambs to the slaughter. ____ 13. Bill is treated like the black sheep of the family. ____ 14. The line of people waiting to buy the new gadget snaked along slowly. _____

Decorations for

a. Ate something very rapidly and in large pieces like a wild animal would

• Weddings • Receptions • Garba • Engagements • Anniversaries • Birthday Parties • other events

b. To be really dangerous or threatening c. Very quickly, in a very short time d. Asking for help when it isn’t needed (From the folk tale about the boy who cried “Wolf” when there was no wolf and then was ignored when a real wolf appeared.)

Specializing In Traditional • Elegant Customized Unique Designs

Yogini or Dilip Purohit: 704.847.3917 Panna or Raju Patel: 704.542.7627 www.rajdeepmandap.com

e. The largest portion f. Quietly, not realizing the potential difficulties and dangers ahead.____ Saathee.com

Exclusive Full Services

March 2012

Worldwide Travel Inc. Call us for all your travel needs within the u.s. or around the world

toll free

Expert Travel Agents Cheap Fares

1-800-290-9048

1976 Since

Email: info@wwt-usa.com Web: www.wwt-usa.com

1026 16th Street, NW, Suite 104, Washington, DC 22036

(consolidator for all major airlines)

Cary

Photo Video

Videos and Photos for Most Occasions • Weddings • Cultural Events • Concerts • Dance Performances • Birthday Parties • Baby Showers • Graduation Parties • Sports Events • Corporate Events • Various Parties/Receptions

Highlights of Experience • Specialized in Arangetrams (Experience with over 10 Dance Schools) • “Lynyrd Skynyrd” (Hall of Fame Rock Band) Reunion Concert • Concerts of Asha Bhosle, Usha Uthup, Sunidhi Chauhan • Video footage televised on TV channels in the U.S. and abroad

Other Services

Attract ive

R a te s

• Converting VHS tape to DVD & Cassette tape to CD • Serving your audio needs For further information, Please call: K.P. Sandeep, 919-247-3989 info@caryphotovideo.com http://www.caryphotovideo.com Saathee.com

March 2012

By Chanden Sen Strange Conflict When I was an executive – albeit a junior one – at the Indian Telephone Industries, Bangalore, I started off thinking how great it was to be working in a Public Sector undertaking, since my term paper in Economics, the previous year at the Indian Institute of Science, had been on the public sector. But my three-year stint at ITI, interesting and educative though it was, was also an eye-opener to a peculiar situation that I noticed, both on the company bus and elsewhere, especially during a company-wide strike. There was almost a running battle between management, actually top management, and the rank and file, i.e. workers. Even on a formal visit to ITI before joining, there was question on whether we were full-fledged engineers and allowed to avail of the officers’ canteen. The workers’ union saw the company bus operations as a province over which they held a lot of power. And during the strike that I mentioned before, the workers were vociferously agitating and disrupting daily work. I think that it was the British class system that India inherited that caused this strange behavior. It was almost as if “management” and “workers” came from different planets. In what way did workers think that ITI was “theirs” to control? Why was there a constant tussle for higher wages, “better” working conditions, shorter working hours, and so on? Back in Calcutta there was a similar situation in the private sector industries which were mainly owned by non-Bengalis. In my view, the pendulum swung from one extreme to the other over a few decades. Initially, the rich were exploiting the poor. Then, over the years, the unions became so strong that they called the shots. That’s when work suffered, production, sales and profits went down, and eventually many businesses relocated to places outside West Bengal. The long strikes were detrimental to both management and workers, and the last I heard of it, there was an uneasy stalemate. Consider what would happen if both management and workers were enlightened enough to work constructively with each other and carry on a continuing, meaningful dialog that served everybody’s needs. Why think always that it’s a zero-sum game? I think that there is enough abundance to go around if people were not greedy, were empathetic and not just egoistic, and were ready to undergo sacrifices for each other, and not just for themselves. Gandhiji’s famous words come readily to mind: “Sab ko sanmati de Bhagavan,”

Location, as you know, is of paramount importance for any business that deals directly with customers at its premises. No, my guess is that the owners gave up because of a lack of customers, which is a #1 reason that small businesses fail. But then, why did the owners not foresee this possibility? Because, on the face of it, the corner shop does look like a prime location, for a number of reasons. Firstly, there is a constant traffic to and from the nearby DMV office. Then there is the bus stand, where there is always a motley group of passengers. These two circumstances give the illusion of a good spot to do business. But, to my eye, the DMV visitors are always in a hurry. They collect their drivers’ licenses, or permits or whatever, and are inand-out, without even a passing glance at the corner shop and what it has to offer. The bus passengers tell a different story. Most of them are broke, and I don’t say this in a pejorative sense. They just don’t have the spare cash to buy an ice cream, much less book an event. If I could foresee a satisfactory outcome to an imaginary conversation with a prospective owner of the corner location, I would talk to him or her. Here’s how I imagine a conversation going: I: With all due respects, this is not a good location to do business. He (looking me up and down):- Sez who? I (sincerely): I’ve seen businesses come and go, and you would be wise not to plonk your business here. He (emphatically): Listen buddy, I’ve done the research and I know what I’m doing, so pipe down and mind your own business. I (sighing): OK, OK, it’s your money. They say, don’t they, that a sucker is born every minute? One lives and learns.

Personal Humility and Professional Will A level five leader has been described as a humble, yet determined person. I guess the humility comes from the realization that each one of us has limitations, and that we simply cannot bring about a perfect world by wishing it. However big and powerful a person is it counts as next to nothing compared with the vastness of the world. Mothet Teresa had a saying, “It is not given to all of us to do great things, but we can all do little things with great love.” She also encouraged do-gooders with her famous sayings: Life is an adventure; live it. Life is a challenge; accept it. Sri Aurobindo wrote, “None of us are here to do as we please.” Yet it behooves all of us to follow our conscience. I read this morning that more NGO personnel are killed worldwide in the line of duty than all blue-helmeted UN troops. Sad but true. It almost causes me to despair when do-gooders have violent acts committed against them, perhaps by vested interests who feel threatened. I think the threat of violence deters many would-be volunteers from serving in remote areas. The forces of evil thrive when good people lose heart, yet it has been said that people get the government they deserve. Just another Sucker We who are fortunate to have seen the developed at first hand As an experienced businessman, I find pleasure in keeping track of the comings and goings of shops at the Avent Ferry sometimes dream of “exporting” some of the good things we see shopping center in Raleigh, an area which with I have been into the developing world. On the other hand, the emerging familiar for more than eight years. continued on page 118 In particular, there is a corner location which looks very attractive but, in my opinion, has been the Waterloo of many Chandan Sen businesses. First, there was an ice cream parlor there. Then an Contact: “event management” firm showed up and finally a check cashing chandansen33@hotmail.com unit. They’ve all moved out within a year of starting business. Mind you, I’m not denying the possibility that each owner made money and moved his establishment to a better location. Saathee.com

March 2012

Trikonasana - Stand straight keeping your feet one leg apart. Raise the arms sideways to shoulder level. Slowly bend forward twisting the trunk so the left, bringing the right hand to the left foot then twist to the right, bringing the left hand to the right foot. Repeat at least 6 times on each side as fast and freely as possible. After finishing the movements stay in forward bend for few breaths before returning to the standing position. Triyanka Tadasana - Stand straight keeping your feet shoulder width apart. Interlock the fingers turn the palms outward and raise the arms over the head. Slowly bend to the left side from the waist. Do not bend forward or backward or twist the trunk. Slowly come to upright position and then bend to the right. Repeat at least 6 times on each side. Kati Chakrasana - Stand straight keeping your feet shoulder width apart. Slowly twist the body to the left bringing the right hand to the left shoulder, wrapping the left arm around the back and looking over the left shoulder as far as possible.

By Pradip Bulsara Relief from Stiff Neck & Neck Tension Shoulder Lifts Start off with shoulder lift. Lift both shoulders up and simultaneously drop them down. Repeat the shoulder lift 10 times. Breathe in while lifting the shoulders and breathe out when dropping the shoulders down.

Opening/Closing Mouth Open your mouth wide and then close. Repeat the opening and closing of your mouth 10 times. Breathe out while opening the Repeat on the other side to complete one round. Repeat at least mouth and breathe in after closing the mouth. 6 times. Practice Savasana for few minutes after the practice. Bite Right/Left Bite on the right side and then on the left side. Repeat biting on Pada Prasar Pachimotasana the left and right 10 times on each side. Breathe out as you bite (Legs spread back stretch) and breathe in as you relax your mouth. This asana gives an extended stretch to the inside of the legs and the effect of the asana is distributed throughout both the Wiggle Left/Right Keep your lower jaw relaxed, mouth slightly open and wiggle upper and the lower parts of the body. your jaws left and right. Repeat 10 times. Breathe normally. Sit with your legs spread apart as wide as possible. This is the starting position. Rotation Close your mouth, pucker your lips and rotate clockwise 10 Walk your hands as far out in front as possible. times and then anticlockwise 10 times. Breathe normally. Repeat the movements from the top at least three times. This Breathe slowly and deeply and on each breath out relax the set of movements can provide relief from neck tension and elbows down to the ground without moving your hands. Once the elbows are down on the ground bend both arms to support regaining neck mobility. Try it out and have fun doing it. the head. Dynamic Yoga Asana for healthy spine Most of our daily routines produce extensive uneven stress Reach out to the sides with your hands and grab the toes. Bend on the back. Listed below are some of the standing yoga asanas forward and try to touch the forehead to the floor directly in that can be practiced daily as a therapy as well as maintaining front of the body. a healthy spine. Breathe normally throughout the practice and do as much as you can comfortably. If any asanas aggravates Bring the palms in prayer position and place them on top of the head. the problem stop doing it and move on to the next one. Tadasana - Stand straight keeping your feet shoulder width apart. Interlock the fingers and raise the arms over the head as Reach out with both hands in the front. the heels are raised coming up onto the toes. Once the palms are raised above the head turn the palms upward. Lower the Gradually bring the chest, abdomen, and pelvic region to the arms and heels slowly to come back to the starting pose. Repeat floor. Wrap the arms around the back in prayer position. Raise at least 6 times. In the beginning it may be difficult to maintain the head so that the throat and chin are also on the floor. balance but with practice it becomes easier. Utthanasana - Stand straight keeping your feet shoulder This is the final position. Hold the position as long as you feel width apart. Place your palms on your waist. Slowly bend the comfortable. Release the hands and return to the starting knees and lower the buttocks about half a foot. The knees position. should bend outward over the toes and the spine should be straight. Straighten the knees and return to the upright position. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti Repeat at least 6 times. Padahastasana/Uttitardhachakrasana - Stand straight keeping your feet shoulder width apart. Place your palms on Pradip Bulsara your thighs and slowly bend forward from your hips, keeping teaches a yoga class at the Hindu Center in Charlotte on Sunday mornings the spine straight, or bend as far as comfortable. Bend the knees, place the palms on the waist and bend backward as far as comfortable. Slowly come up to standing position. Repeat forward and backward at least 6 times. Saathee.com

March 2012

Vegetarian and Vegan Indian Food: Chaats & Curries Only Take-OuT Catering for 50 to 500 or more. We cater for all major hotels and party halls.

HOURS: Tues - Thurs (11 am to 8 pm); Fri & Sat (11 am to 9 pm); Sun (11 am to 8 pm) Mon (Closed)

Monkey Joe’s

India Grocers

March Special: Saraso Bhaaji & Makke di Roti

551-B N. Polk Street • Pineville, NC 28134 Tel: 704.889.VEGI (704.889.8344)

Arby’s

N. Polk Street / South Blvd (I-485 >)

www.Bollywood-Bites.com

New Larger Location Now Open

BHARAT BAZAAR Amazing Prices! Friendly Service! Convenient Location! extra Low Prices! Fresh Roti Available

Saathee.com

mcdonald’s

old sugar creek rd.

W. sugar creek rd.

I-77

d bharat bazaar

I-85

Full Line of Groceries & Frozen Foods

W. W.t. harris blvd

Fresh Vegetables, Sweets & Snacks

We accept eBt Cards & Food Stamps

Phone Cards Huge Selection of dVd’s & Cd’s

6233 Old Sugar Creek Rd Charlotte, NC 28269 Corner Of W.T. Harris And Old Sugar Creek next to McDonald’s

704.494.4845 (Fax: 704.494.4088) www.bharatbazaarcharlotte.com Open 7 Days A Week 10 am to 8 pm 51

March 2012

Herbal Supplements: Supplemental Bilberries contain carotenoids and anthocyanin - that may be good for the vision. Despite much research and claims, so far there’s no convincing evidence that any herb or eye supplement can keep your eyes healthy.

By Anjana Agarwal

Bottom Line: Get your nutrients from colorful fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, nuts and healthy fats. Get regular eye exams, once every 3 to 5 years starting age 40, more often as you get older depending on your health and doctor’s advice.

Nutrition for Better Sight Lately there has been much interest in the role of nutrition in eye health; hundreds of studies have been conducted in recent years with some promising findings. It has been known that malnutrition harms vision. Vitamin A deficiency can cause night blindness and other problems. Thus, carrots, sweet potatoes, winter squash and many other fruits and vegetables are good for your eyes since they contain high amounts of Beta Carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. It is also know that avoiding smoking and strong sunlight may help reduce the risk of cataract.

Indian Saag will give you plenty of healthy nutrients. Try the following recipe: Ingredients: 2 tbsp. Canola oil 2 tsp cumin seeds 2 green chili pepper or to taste 2 cloves garlic chopped (optional) 2 tsp turmeric powder 1 Tbsp grated ginger Cook and blend one pound each of spinach, mustard green and broccoli 4 tbsp. roasted gram flour (Besan) Curry powder, garam masala (All Spices) to taste 1 cup plain yogurt

Lutein and Zeaxanthin: These are also carotenoids in many fruits and vegetables and are also found in retina of healthy eye, where they act as a filter against ultraviolet rays and other harmful components of sunlight. They act sort of like built-in sunglasses. The people with high dietary intakes of these carotenoids have a reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. Some short-term clinical trials have suggested the protective effects in people with healthy eyes, as well as benefits in those who already have AMD. To get these carotenoids eat colorful vegetables and fruits like leafy green vegetables, blueberries, black berries, broccoli, beets, carrots, sweet potatoes, winter squash and many other deep green, orange, yellow, purple, red and blue fruits and vegetables.

Method: In large wok heat oil, cook and stir in cumin seeds, chili pepper, garlic, ginger and turmeric until fragrant. Add rest of the ingredients except yogurt; cook 10-15 minutes until well blended. Add yogurt and mix well. Serve hot with corn Chapatti.

Vitamin C, E and Selenium: Some studies have found that people who consume food high in these antioxidants are at a reduced risk for cataracts and AMD. A recent British study found that older vegetarians are 30 to 40 percent less likely to develop cataracts than nonvegetarians. But there is little evidence that antioxidant pills have this effect, moreover high doses of beta carotene in a pill form may increase the risk of cancer in smokers. Last year a large 8-year Harvard study of male doctors found that Vitamin C and Vitamin E supplements in pill form, alone or in combination, did not reduce the risk of cataract.

For individual nutrition counseling consult a registered dietitian. Many insurance companies now pay for the consults.

Anjana Agarwal, MS, RD, LDN, CNSD, CDE Registered Dietitian Phone: 704-890-3162 Carolina nutrition (Adult & Pediatric) www.carolinanutrition.com

Zinc: It is an essential mineral, found in the retina, and it may protect eyes from damaging effect of light. But supplemental zinc has never found to be beneficial to healthy eye. In addition, more than 50 mg of zinc daily can have adverse effects. Get more zinc from meat, seafood (especially oysters) and liver are the richest sources while milk, dairy products, beans, wheat germ, whole grains and Brewer’s yeast are other good sources.

&Desai

Desai

C e R t I F I e d P u B L I C A C C o u N tA N t S • Accounting & Payroll Services • Individual / Business Tax Serv. • Accounting Software Consulting • Business & Financial Consulting • Estate Planning

Omega 3 Fatty Acids: Research study last year published in the “Archives of Ophthalmology” found that women who consume the most Omega-3 Fatty Acids from fish were 40 percent less likely to develop AMD than that lower intake. Try to get these healthy fatty acids from fish, nuts (especially walnuts), flax seeds, canola oil and soybean oil. Saathee.com

• Personal Financial Statements • Compilations • Business Venture Financing • Business Valuation Consulting • Specialize in filing W7’s & getting TIN #s for IT Consultants

1105 Dumont Ct., Matthews, NC 28104 Ph. 704.845.0918 or 704.845.0915 Fax. 704.845.0928 E-mail: anup@desaillp.com www.desaillp.com 52

March 2012

Modern Indian Cuisine 311 East Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28203 704.333.0063 www.CopperRestaurant.com

Ballantyne Village 14815 Ballantyne Village Way, Suite 170 Charlotte,N.C 28277 704.369.5777 info@TheBlueTaj.com Cuisine of India www.TheBlueTaj.com

H2 Laser & Skin

12335 North Community House Rd Lenox Salons, Suite 12, Charlotte, NC 28277 (Located in Ballantyne)

980.213.6996

hetal.h2laser@gmail.com

www.h2laserandskin.com

New Breakthrough Technology in LASER HAIR REMOVAL & we have it!... HIGH SPEED Light Sheer DUET > Virtually PAIN-FREE! > Faster treatments for men and women – Full legs or back in 15-20 minutes > Effective for all skin types and no messy gels needed > Recognized “Gold Standard” and FDA approved > Underarm or upper lip less than $90 per treatment CAll FOr Free CONSulTATION SPeCIAlS FOr New ClIeNTS

Saathee.com

By Appointment Only

March 2012

The Chiropractic Doctors at ChiroCarolina have been helping people in Charlotte for over 30 years. During that time we've helped thousands of patients find relief from debilitating pain. The secret to our success? Compassion • Attention • Professionalism Dr. Ferzaan A. Ali

TREATING CONDITIONS SuCH AS: Low back/Leg pain Neck/Arm pain Headaches Sports Injuries Auto Accident Injuries Arthritis/Fibromyalgia Neck/Low back disc injuries Work Related Injuries Accepting major insurance: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, United Health Care, Med Cost, Cigna, Medicare and others.

Dr. Henry E. Rice Our doctors are fluent in English, Hindi, Urdu and Spanish 537 W. Sugar Creek Rd. • Charlotte, North Carolina 28213 Phone: 704-598-8040 • Fax: 704-509-0915 www.CharlotteChiropracticClinic.com Saathee.com

March 2012

zAGAT RATED

A wide range of South Indian, North Indian, Indo Chinese, Chaats, Jain, and more

Catering for all occasions

Pure Vegetarian Indian Cuisine

Fresh Dosa made on site for your parties. Call Leslie Lobo 704.264.6525

Tel: 704-569-9193 · Fax: 704-569-9188 7128-A Albemarle Rd. Charlotte, NC 28227

Organic & Vegan Menu available

www.woodlandsusa.com

Visit our website for the menu, coupons, directions etc.

Open 6 Days a week (Closed on Tuesday) (11:30 am to 10 pm)

Never frozen No preservatives No artificial additives Zero Transfat

Winner Best Indian Restaurant in Charlotte 2009

Woodlands Specials

Special Weekend Lunch Buffet - $8.95 Saturday & Sunday 11:30 am to 3 pm

Over 30 items and unlimited hot dosa at table

Weekday Lunch Menu Starting at $3.99 Monday To Friday dinner sPecial

10% OFF

Dine in only. Not valid with any other offers or Organic menu. One coupon per table. Other restirctions may apply. Must present coupon. Exp. 4/05/12

Let’s look back at some of the largest point advances and declines of the Dow:

By Rajesh T. Ganatra Throughout the decades, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) or commonly referred to as “The Dow” has been used as a barometer of the USA’s financial stocks. The Dow was founded by Charles Dow and it has been around since May 26, 1896. At that time, the index was comprised of twelve stocks among the country’s leading industries and the index was exactly like its title – an average. You added up the prices of the stocks and divided by twelve, and that was the DJIA. As times changed, more companies were added to the index to make it more representative of the USA’s expanding industries and then came the era of stock splits, divestitures, spin-offs and some companies were admitted to the index, while some companies ended up being removed. Therefore, the divisor had to be adjusted for events like these to ensure that they did not skew the index. Throughout the years, other yardsticks such as the NASDAQ Composite, S&P500, Russell 2000, Russell 3000, etc. have come in the spotlight and critics argue that the DJIA is becoming obsolete and the other indices are indeed more representative of the nations’ financial markets because they are broader in scope and quantity (they cover many more stocks than the 30stock composition of the Dow). Despite its detractors, the Dow has endured and is always observed, quoted and analyzed.

Let’s look back at some of the largest percentage advances and declines of the Dow:

Let’s take a look at the current “Dow 30”

Special Note: This article contains the ideas and thoughts of its author and it does not necessarily imply the viewpoints of “Saathee” magazine or its principals. Rajesh T. Ganatra Contact him at rajeshtganatra@rocketmail.com

Charlotte, NC

Saathee.com

March 2012

OPENING SOON NEAR UNVER N O I T A C O SITY 2ND L

INDIA GROCERS

we Acce Now pt E Card BT s

ices r P Low yday! Ever

SPECIAL Holi SALE

TOOR DAL UNOILY $ 3.99/4 LBS MOONG DAL $4.49 / 4LBS MOONG WHOLE $4.49 /4LBS MOONG SPLIT $4. 99 /4 LBS MASOOR DAL $3.99 /4LBS URAD DAL $4.49 /4LBS URAD GOTA $4.49 /4LBS KALA CHANA $2.99 /4LBS KABULI CHANA $4.49/4LBS CHANA DAL $3.49 /4LBS GREEN/YELLOW PEAS $2.99/4LBS SOJI $2. 29/4LBS RICE FLOUR $2.49/4LBS NIRAV BESAN $8.99/10LBS MAMRA $1.49/ 1 lbs SWARNA WHEAT FLOUR $8.99/20 LBS AASHIRVAAD WHEAT FLOUR $8.99/22 LBS

MIRCH MASALA FAMILY PK PARATHA $5.99 /PKT REAL SNACKS $1.49/PKT

MIRCHMASALA PARATHA BUY 2 GET 1 FREE NIRAV/DEEP MANGO PULP $9.99/TRAY CANOLA OIL $28.99/35 LBS DEVAAYA BASMATI RICE $8.99/10LBS KOHINOOR BASMATI RICE $10.99/12LBS DEEP KHAKHRA $1.29/PKT REAL SNACKS $1.49/PKT SALE ENDS MARCH 18TH, 2012 Some restriction may apply. While supplies last.

2ND LOCATION OPENING SOON NEAR UNVERSITY

WE CARRY ASLI, LAXMI & NIRAV PRODUCTS Fresh Vegetables, Snacks, Full Line Of Groceries, Indian Jewelry, Music & Movies Open Seven Days a Week (9:30 am to 8:30pm) 509 North Polk St. (South Blvd) Pineville, NC 28134 Phone: 704.889.2210 Fax: 704.889.2211 Contact Pritesh Patel Directions: 2 Miles from Carolina Place Mall and I-485 (exit 65-B- towards Pineville) Same Shopping Center as Subway & Sherwin Williams. Across the street from Performance Honda / Suzuki

South Charlotte Endocrinology “Remarkable Endocrinology Care”

Board-Certified in Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism; Board-Certified in Internal Medicine; Endocrine Certification in Neck Ultrasound. Dr. Narasimhan is committed to offering high-quality, compassionate care to each of his patients.

Thyroid Diseases • Pituitary/Parathyroid Disorders

Osteoporosis • Diabetes •On Site Ultrasound

Kanakasabai Narasimhan, MD, FACP, ECNU

15825 John J. Delaney Drive, Suite 220, Charlotte, NC 28277 Call 704-316-2930 to schedule an appointment.

Saathee.com

March 2012

N E ! P O NO W NEW LOCATION! 10701 CENTRUM PARKWAY PINEVILLE, NC 28134 ACROSS FROM CAROLINA PLACE MALL, PINEVILLE (Next to Wells Fargo Bank, Across From Best Buy)

NEW PHONE NUMBER!

704.540.2013 OPEN: TUE - SUN: 10 AM - 8:30 PM

www.patelbros.com

With this type of bankruptcy, you may save your home and other assets. Chapter 7 forgives your debt, and that is all it does. When you enter into a mortgage, you are agreeing to use your home as a type of collateral in case you default on your payments. Therefore, you will probably lose your home. Chapter 13 enables you to stop action on the repossession of your home, while you catch up on your payments; hence, you may save your home. There are restrictions on the types of debt that can be discharged by the bankruptcy. Child-support, alimony payments and past tax bills are never dischargeable. Student loans are forgiven only in rare situations, such as poor health that prevents you from working. Creditors also have the right to object to the discharge of certain unsecured debts, such as large purchases for luxuries or cash advances made within 90 days of filing.

Facing a Mortgage Foreclosure? Consider Bankruptcy By Sumeet P. Shah Times are very tough these days and you may be one of many who has fallen behind on your mortgage payments for your home. Your lender may now be moving forward with foreclosure. Some of you may be able to work out deals with your lender to avoid foreclosure such as through a short sale, loan modification, loan forbearance or deed in lieu of foreclosure. Unfortunately, most lenders are not willing to make a deal. The foreclosure process, however, takes time. Most creditors do not begin foreclosing until you are two to three months behind on your mortgage payments. If you have determined that you cannot work out something with your lender, consider filing for bankruptcy as an alternative. Bankruptcy and foreclosure are both words that the average person dreads hearing. However, if you are facing foreclosure, bankruptcy can become a tool to help you keep your house or at the very least delay the foreclosure. Once you file bankruptcy, such as Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, the court automatically issues an Order for Relief. This order grants you an “automatic stay” that directs your creditors to immediately cease their collection attempts no matter what. If a foreclosure sale has been scheduled for your home or business, it will be postponed by law, until the bankruptcy is finalized. This usually takes about three to four months. There are a couple of exceptions to a possible attempt to delay the foreclosure: (1) The lender can file a motion with the bankruptcy court to lift the stay, and continue with the foreclosure sale. If this is granted, you may not receive the extra three to four months of time. However, bankruptcy normally still postpones the sale by about two months or more, or even longer if the lender does not act fast in filing the motion to lift the stay; (2) Most states have laws that require lenders to give homeowners a certain amount of notice before selling their property. If the foreclosure notice has already been filed by the lender, then a bankruptcy’s automatic stay will not stop the clock on this advance notice.

What is the Credit Affect from Bankruptcy? Although bankruptcy and foreclosure are both extremely damaging to your credit, sometimes filing bankruptcy can be a wise choice when trying to rebuild credit. A foreclosure not only damages your credit score for years, but you are still left with the mortgage debt. Most mortgage creditors will not consider you for future mortgages if you have a foreclosure on your credit history. In contrast, bankruptcy lets you start fresh. It is still damaging to your credit, but because you are debt free, you immediately begin rebuilding good credit sooner. Although bankruptcy has a few negative consequences, and may not save you from losing your home, it can be the best option in starting fresh with no debt, getting back on your feet, and saving money. Consider the alternative of bankruptcy when facing a foreclosure on your home. Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is for general information only, and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice. Sumeet P. Shah is Principal Attorney at Shah Legal Group, LLC in Atlanta, Georgia. His areas of practice include franchise, corporate, real estate, and estate planning and business litigation. He can be reached at sumeet.shah@shahlegalgroup.com or (678) 274-9335.

What Is the Difference Between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13? Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a liquidation of your assets with most of your unsecured debts written off within 90 days of filing. The bankruptcy will stay on your credit report for 10 years. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy also cancels all the debt secured by the home, including mortgages and home equity loans. While debts will be forgiven, you will have to sell some of your property, with the proceeds distributed to your creditors. In most cases, this means you’ll lose your house, as well as any expensive assets. However, there are certain exemptions for other assets, such as bank and retirement savings accounts, and property, like furniture and clothes, and the exemptions vary depending on the laws of your jurisdiction. Chapter 13, on the other hand, is a repayment plan. You set up a three- or five-year schedule with your creditors. Chapter 13 bankruptcy remains on your credit report for seven years. Saathee.com

March 2012

CPCC Central Campus Dale F. Halton Theater Overcash Center Saturday April 28, 2012 4 p.m. Photo courtesy James Spence — CPCC

Featuring internationally acclaimed performer Dr. Maha Gingrich and group

Come celebrate unity and diversity within Charlotte’s international community. Experience traditional Indian classical and folk dances – rhythmic dance styles that tell the story of ancient India through lyrical movement and music. Tickets: $10, adults; $5, school-age children For ticket information, call the SunTrust Box Office at 704.330.6534 or visit tix.cpcc.edu. Free parking available in the faculty/staff parking deck located on 4th Street.

Motel Investment Opportunity Contact:

Akshat Patel Broker/Owner

919-455-5949

yourprimesource@aol.com

Prime Source Properties 6619 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27612

Saathee.com

$2,850,000

ASkING PRICE: ($33,140 per room)

86 Rooms, 2 Story Exterior Corridor Located on Total 1.83 acre Land. Partial Land .82 acre Owned and Partial Land 1.01 acre Leased until Year 2037.

March 2012

By Gail Z. Martin

Keywords are King Consumers and reporters often turn first to search engines like Google for their news. When they look for information that is relevant to your products and services, how likely are they to find your Website and your press releases? Think of your own behavior as a consumer. It’s rare for someone to look further than the first page of search results. “Keywords” are the terms customers use when searching for information with a site like Google. Many companies make the mistake of focusing solely on getting their company and product name onto search engine results and forget that prospects may not yet know the name of their company or product. These valuable prospects are going to search on more generic descriptors, “used car” instead of “Ford,” “plumbing services” instead of the name of a company, or “color printers” rather than a brand name product. Use Keywords to Make Sure Your Releases Get Noticed Start by making a list of all of the nouns you normally use to describe your company, product, service or newsworthy event. Don’t be afraid to have several variations of the same term, for example, “printer,” “color printer,” “laser printer,” etc. Make sure that you include generic descriptions as well as brand names, product names and trademarked terms. If you’ve seen customers frequently misspell a term related to your product or service, include the misspelling as well. If your product, service or event has recently been in the news, featured in the media or associated somehow with a celebrity, include the name of the celebrity, news source or media. Do you have a well-known spokesperson or a fairly famous mascot? Include those names. Does your product, service or event have any relevant tie-in to recent headline news stories? If so, include keywords related to that headline topic. Now go out to Alexa and look at the most popular topics. Do any of those terms have a reasonable connection to your company, product, service or event? If so, copy the term to your list. Sites like Alexa may tell you what search terms are already sending business to your site and to competitors’ sites. Those are definitely terms to add to your list. Go to Twitter and see what the “trending topics” are—this is a list of the most frequently tweeted terms, the terms everyone is talking about. Do any of them apply to you? If so, grab the words. Another place to look for hot keywords is on the social bookmarking sites like Digg, Delicious and StumbleUpon. These sites enable users to share links to articles, Websites, and other Internet content that they have found to be interesting. It’s the online equivalent of hanging something on the office bulletin board with a sticky note that says, “Look at this.” Take a few moments and look for any popular topics that are related to your news, and add the words to your list. At this point, you should have a pretty large list. Now it’s time to see which words pack the most search engine punch. Go out to Google Keyword Tool (it’s free) and enter one term at a time. Google Keyword Tool will return a list of similar Saathee.com

terms along with the number of times those terms have been used to search for a topic on Google. You’ll immediately notice that many terms that are synonymous have very different frequencies of use. As I’ve said earlier, if you have two terms that mean the same thing and one is used a thousand times and one is used a million times, pick the million-search term! As you’re looking through the keywords generated by the program, you may get some great ideas for new words, and you may find that many of the words you started with have very low search results. Don’t forget to try word combinations because sometimes a phrase does better than a single word. When you write your press releases, use the keywords that are relevant to your topic and that get the highest search results. It’s a good idea to use these top keywords in your Web site copy, and in your blog as well as in your Facebook and Twitter posts. Don’t be afraid to use a good keyword multiple times, but make sure that your press release is written to be attractive to human readers as well as to search engines. Avoid the temptation to mention a popular topic or celebrity just to drive up Web hits. Search engines recognize cheap tricks like that and can penalize your release in the rankings. Remember that curiosity gets clicks, so be creative and entertaining with your press release headline. Be clever but not cute, and never mislead. Remember to use strong keywords in your headline as well as in the body of your release. Online press release sites often allow you to add keywords in a list. Don’t skip this step! It will help your release be more visible. Your Web site should have keywords and descriptive tags associated with every page as well as with photo and graphic images. Search engines can’t “see” photos or graphics, so if you don’t tag photos, they can’t show up in search engine results. Keywords are an essential part of everything you do online. Is It An Ad—or a Search Result? Keywords also play a crucial role in online advertising. If you look at the first page of your Google search results, you’ll notice some sites appear in a box at the top and in a column on the right. These are paid ads, and the advertisers have chosen specific keywords associated with their product or service so that when someone searches on those keywords, the ad is shown. Google Adwords, Yahoo Search Marketing and MSN AdCenter are just some of the keyword-driven online advertising programs available to help put your product in a prime position in front of prospects. As you may have guessed, these services aren’t free, and competition can be fierce (and expensive) for popular search terms. For example, Yahoo Search Marketing’s site has a questionnaire for new prospects, and for those who are looking to create campaigns with a budget under $5,000/month, a popup box suggests they try MSN AdCenter. Need I say that before you decide to pay big bucks for a keyword tied to online advertising, it’s important to test that continued on page 80

Gail Z. Martin owns DreamSpinner Communications. Contact her at dreamspinnercommunications@earthlink.net

March 2012

ANIL BEDI & ASSOCIATES, PC CPAs and Business Consultants Member: AICPA, IIA & ICAI

1.800.313.1921 or 678.779.3475 (cell) e-mail: anil@abacconsulting.com

www.abacconsulting.com

Serving North & South Carolina C-Corp., S-Corp. & LLCs

25% OFF (with this ad. Exp 3.5.12) Serving Medical offices, Motels, Gas-Stations, Restaurants and all other businesses.

We Specialize in: Individual & Business taxes • Accounting & Payroll New company incorporations • Tax filing for all - including H-1 & L-1 visa holders W-7's and Tax ID's for IT consultants • Internal audit & SOX Compliance • Business set-up and support in India Filing Available for All 50 States Free E-Filing Over 20 years of experience Serving the entire Southeast

Anil Bedi

FREE, no obligation consultation!

FCA, CPA

Special Low Fares to India! Book Now and Save Huge! Call us today for details.

Call: 919-655-5443 / 919-720-0666 (Gujarati) E-mail: apnatravelsnc@gmail.com

Saathee.com

March 2012

SINDHI NE NEW W YEAR

Program Prog Pr ogrram at og at Hindu Hindu Center: Center:

T he S indhi C ommunity o he Ca rolinas ex tend The Sindhi Community off T The Carolinas extend ation to to you you & your your ffamily amily for for a personal invit invitation

Cheti C han d

5 pm pm ttoo 6

“Sin dhi New Year 2012”c 2012” celebrations. “Sindhi 2012”celebrations.

Lord Jhulelal Pooja, & Bharat

6 to to 6:30 6:30 Social Tea Social Hour—Snacks Hour—Snacks & T ea

04-334-2462 Bina Gobind Bhojwani 704-334-2462 B ina G obind B hojwani - 7 Suresh Lata S uresh Raisinghani Raisinghani - 704-992-6363 704-992-6363 Loku Mala Lok u Ma la Hemnani Hemnani - 704-231-3056 704-231-3056

6:30 6 :30 to to 7:30 Stage Show & Entertainment Religious 7:30 ttoo 8 R eligious Thal Thal Dance Dance

*Tune in in to to ‘Voice ‘Voice o ndia’ AM AM 1030 1030 o nS unday off IIndia’ on Sunday 9:30am ffor or o ur s pecial C heti C hand P rogram. 9:30am our special Cheti Chand Program.

8p pm m

Sindhi Traditional Dinner

U # $ # " " " !

# !& $%

"" !

" #

)$,! # )%(++! 0 . &$'$*+) +() # %+ ()" 0

$+/ $!-

%+ ()"

$ %

% !!

%&#

& "

electronically. If the numbers don’t add up, you will definitely get a notice from IRS. This is not an audit, but once the software kicks your return out of the automated process to an IRS agent, there is no telling what else they might uncover!

By Krutika Chheda Audit Proof your Business and Individual Tax Returns Past few months we discussed about the different tax deductions for small businesses and special tax situations for individuals. While it is very encouraging to maximize legitimate deductions and receive big tax refund, it can be extremely painful to come under an IRS audit scrutiny. Many in the tax community believe that the audit-free ride for tax payers is likely to get over soon. IRS is likely to step up its audit enforcement in coming years as the federal government decides to close the massive budget deficit gap. IRS audits around 1.2 to 1.5 million tax returns – a small fraction of the total tax returns filed in the US. So, while it is still unlikely that you will be audited, the odds are increasing rapidly in middle to high income groups. How Does IRS pick a Tax Return for Audit? IRS has automated processes to scan tax returns. First there are some basic data verification checks that the computer performs such as checking the name, social security number, W2 information etc. Next the IRS computers assign a rating to each tax return based on audit triggers from the statistical analysis of every item on the tax return and correlating averages found on a cross-section of past successfully audited tax returns. The exact formula is kept secret by the IRS so it is impossible to find out what triggers are being given more weight in any particular year, but the tax community monitors closely to see any new trends. After the IRS computer kicks out the audit worthy tax returns, an IRS agent will review them and make the determination to audit it or let it pass. For a long time some accountants believed that in order to escape IRS audit, one should file a paper return with an extension. IRS claims that it treats all returns in the same way irrespective of how and when they were filed. Five Mistakes to Avoid an IRS Audit 1) Report all sources of Income, including 1099s, 1098s This sounds very obvious but many tax payers forget to include all of their incomes. Form 1099 includes 1099-INT for interest, 1099-DIV for dividends, 1099-G for tax refunds, 1099R for pensions and 1099-MISC for miscellaneous income. Forms 1098 which lenders send to you and the IRS recording how much interest you paid. Just like your W2 information, this information is received and tracked in the IRS computers. The IRS matches your return against the 1098s and 1099s. If there is a mismatch you will definitely hear from the IRS. So regardless of how many 1099s and 1098s you receive, make sure they all are accounted for on your return.

3) Schedule C – Business Losses Schedule C is by far the biggest trigger for audits. Consistently filing losses under schedule C is likely to trigger an audit especially if main source of income continues to be W2 wages. IRS auditors go after these returns very aggressively. In order for these business losses to stand up, you must pass both the “passive loss” and “hobby loss” rules. Most tax payers are not familiar with these rules, and the IRS knows it. Another trigger is taking earned income credit while filing schedule C. Make sure you take the proper Schedule C deductions if you have a business and especially if you make around $16,000. Also on the Schedule C a big audit flag is claiming a car for 100% business, but you don’t have another car. These are simple logical catches; make sure you cover your basis. If you have a genuine long-term business, I would strongly recommend changing your business entity in to a corporation and file separate business return. Schedule C’s are 10 times more likely to be audited than Partnerships, multiple member LLCs, C and S Corporations. In any case, take help of a professional tax accountant if you need to file a Business Loss or Profit. 4) Don’t use Round Numbers Too many round numbers can be a red flag to the IRS. Rounded numbers just don’t happen very often in the real world. For example in Entertainment and Meals Expenses, don’t use $6000 instead of $5985. 5) Documentation The golden rule of taxes is documentation, documentation, documentation. Keep good records of all your expenses. Several tax payers assume that maintaining accounts in a software or excel sheet is sufficient proof of their expenses. This is not true. You are required to maintain receipts or proof of payment – cancelled checks, credit card statements etc if you claim a deduction. You don’t have to forgo your right to a good tax refund for the fear of a tax audit. Just make sure you have all the documentation for the deductions that you are claiming. If you are not sure about a certain deduction, check with your tax accountant and make the final determination. Keep in mind this column and the articles published here are only meant to provide you with high level information about tax and business matters and in no way should you consider this as tax advice. Consult your tax and legal advisors regarding your individual tax and business situation. This Article provides only an overview to the complex Tax Laws. It is not exhaustive nor a substitute for Independent Tax Advice provided by a Tax Accountant or a Tax Attorney familiar with your case.

Krutika Chheda K&M Accounting and Tax Services www.kmaccountant.com You can Contact her at kmchheda@kmaccountant.com (704) 502 3960

2) Math – Facts Check your numbers through each step and do some simple math checks when you finish. Even if you use a software program, make sure you check the numbers before filing Saathee.com

March 2012

Saathee.com

March 2012

www.Saathee.com

If you like Saathee Magazine, You’ll love Saathee.com.

your web Connection to the Community Digitial Edition • Videos • Photos • Archives news • Web Extras • Bollywood news Complete Community Events and More! Sign up for our weekly e-mail service at www.saathee.com

Business owners Ask us about how your business can benefit with advertising on Saathee.com! call (704) 527-7570 or e-mail: saatheemag@hotmail.com

INDIAN CUISINE

www.bombaygrille.com

PERB IND SU IA N TO

NE ISI CU

GATE W AY

The Carolinas’ Premier Restaurant & Caterer

Open 7 Days a week for Buffet Lunch & Dinner A La Carte • Preferred Caterers for Hyatt, Sheraton, Marriott, Embassy Suites & Westin Hotels in the Carolinas. • Business / Corporate Functions, Weddings, Birthdays, Holidays,

• Full Service Catering in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, & Virginia Hotels

Your Catering Specialists

• Place your Catering Order or make Reservations Online!

www.bombaygrille.com

Tow e r Plac e 8706 Pineville-Matthews Rd

Charlotte,

nC 28226 Tel : 704.542.3933

“Best of the Best” - News & Observer

“Chicken Tikka Masala Rated in Top 10 Dishes in the Triangle” - News & Observer

Catering Hotline: Ni sh a l Se t h i : 7 0 4. 5 4 2 .3 9 33 Nava l S e th i : 91 9 .2 6 0 . 85 8 8 1.877.266.2296 or order on-line.

Established 1989

Email: catorder@bombaygrille.com

Community Gatherings, etc.

Saathee Readers Forum My Very Indian Adventure By Nirja Rakesh Parikh How many people can say they have followed their dreams? Mark Twain once said that, “India is the cradle of the human race, the birthplace of human speech, the mother of history, the grandmother of legend, and the great grandmother of tradition. Our most valuable and most instructive materials in the history of man are treasured up in India only.” After my graduation from North Carolina State University in May 2011, I was firm on going back to my roots to discover myself and possibly learn many new things. Growing up in America with an Indian background I have always enjoyed going to India and I have had a dream of going back there for more than just a couple of weeks. As a dancer and a dance teacher, I knew that India would be the most ideal place for me to advance further in my training for classical dance since it is the source of the dance forms which I am interested in. Now that I am back from my 120 day trip to India, I can truly say that I had a true cultural experience, which had a good share of low moments where I wish I was back in America but now more than anything, I wish I could return back to my home (India). This trip allowed me to get out of my comfort zone, a chance to give back to my country by volunteering, celebrating Hindu festivities such as Navratri, spiritually connecting to my beliefs, improving my mother tongue, and assimilating to the local life. I encourage students who are in their senior year of college to take the chance to take a year off to go back to the motherland and discover yourself. You will not regret it. As I was writing this short article, I was wondering how many people actually follow their dream. People grow up with so many desires and ambitions but some people never fulfill their desires. I did not want to be one of those people who grew old and regretted not following my inner instincts and this was the perfect time and age in my life to go for this trip! I am young, not committed to anything and have an intrinsic drive to push myself to the limits. I am so fortunate to have parents who supported my dance desire and allowed me to go to India. As the time approached near to my departure, I had sleepless nights because of anxiety. I instantly overcame this nervousness because I knew that I was listening to my heart and all I kept repeating in my mind was, “So here I come, motherland!” I want everyone to think about what their childhood dreams were, and why did they give up on those dreams? Walt Disney once exclaimed, “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” Why not give your dreams a chance? I did, and I can honestly say that I am a better and stronger human being now than I ever was before. Saathee.com

As soon as I stepped foot in India, it was a surreal feeling because I was still in utter shock that I actually left my family and friends halfway across the world. My uncle came to pick me at the airport and dropped me to my grandmother’s house in Ahmadabad, Gujurat. Since it was midnight and I was jetlagged, I did not properly see how the city that I was born in transformed into but nevertheless I was titillated to discover mysterious India. My excitement died out as soon I reached home and I went straight to sleep since it was daytime according to my biological clock. As soon as I dozed off, guess who just had to come disturb my beauty sleep, several monkeys. There were about 10 of them behind our balcony tree, and they were all trying to come in but none of them could come inside except the baby monkey! Eventually the monkeys ran away, but some were still monkeying around on the neighbor’s roof, and eating fruits they stole. Talk about cultural shock! This only can happen in India, and India is truly blessed. I don’t know any other country that can have animals like peacocks, monkeys, dogs, and cows all over the busy streets and rarely have road kill. People here would rather give up their own lives than risk hurting an animal on the street. Animals are really valued and I respect India for this notion. The people of India have so much faith in each other that despite the chaotic roads, they know that they are going to be fine and will not hurt or injure any animals. My trip to India had many different components to it such as Navratri and Diwali, traveling, volunteering at an orphanage for the blind, auditioning for reality show “Dance India Dance,” meeting the chief minister of Gujarat, dancing on stage with Sharukh Khan, spending quality time with family members and creating bonds that will last a lifetime. But all this cannot be summed up in one article. So stay tuned for my next month’s article as I go in further detail about my very Indian adventure!

We welcome submissions from readers. If you have an interesting remembrance, essay, experience, travel story, or other short writings you would like to share with Saathee readers, send us an email with potential topics and samples. We will review the article get back to you if we can use anything - Send query to saatheemag@hotmail.com

Sepa Consulting

Kirti H. Shah Certified Public Accountant

Doing business in the Carolinas since 2001. • Year round accounting and book-keeping services. • Payroll & sales tax along with quaterly & yearly payroll services. • Tax preparation and planning for individuals and business. • Financial statements review, compilation and audit. • Assistance in new business setup.

Phone: (704) 588.0011

Fax: (704) 588.0022

kirtihshahcpa@bellsouth.net

10960 Winds Crossing Dr. Suite 400, Charlotte, NC 28273 March 2012

• The maximum number of international players on a team is 10 and there can be no more than four international players in the “playing eleven.” • There must be a minimum of eight Indian players on each team. All matches played in IPL are in 20 over format and since IPL By Rajesh T. Ganatra broadcasts commercials during the games, there is no time restriction per se for teams to play their innings. However, the Hello Cricket fans! umpires may penalize a team if there is obvious abuse of this rule. Time really goes by fast, and very soon it will be time for the The first four seasons of IPL were played in 2008, 2009, 2010 Indian Premier League (IPL) “Season 5” that will be played and 2011. Let’s take a look back at the winners from those years: from April 4 – May 27, 2012. The IPL was created by the Board • 2008: 8 teams participated - Winner: Rajasthan Royals, of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) during late 2007 and all Runner-up: Chennai Super Kings of the franchises are India-based, however, the players that play • 2009: 8 teams participated - Winner: Hyderabad Deccan for the various franchises are from around the world and join Chargers, Runner-up: Royal Challengers Bangalore rosters via an “auction format”. • 2010: 8 teams participated - Winner: Chennai Super Kings, Runner-up: Mumbai Indians Some of the rules regarding team composition are as follows: • There is a minimum of 16 players on a team plus a • 2011: 10 teams participated - Winner: Chennai Super Kings, physiologist and a coach. Runner-up: Royal Challengers Bangalore Looking ahead to the upcoming season, there are nine franchises involved in the IPL Season #5 as follows:

Franchise

Headquarters

Mumbai Indians Royal Challengers Bangalore Hyderabad Deccan Chargers Chennai Super Kings Delhi Daredevils Kings XI Punjab Kolkata Knight Riders Rajasthan royals Pune Warriors India

Mumbai Bangalore Hyderabad Chennai New Delhi Mohali Kolkata Jaipur Pune

Ownership

Captain

Mukesh Ambani (Reliance Industries) Sachin Tendulkar Vijay Mallya (UB Group) Daniel Vettori T. Venkatram Reddy (Deccan Chronicle Group) Kumar Sangakkara Gurunath Meiyappan Mahendra Singh Dhoni GMR Group Virender Sehwag Ness Wadia, Preity Zinta, Dabur, Appejay Surendra Group Adam Gilchrist Red Chillies Entertainment Gautam Gambhir Emerging Media (Lachlan Murdoch), Shipla Shetty, Raj Kundra Rahul Dravid Subrato Roy (Sahara) Yuvraj Singh

Let’s take a look at some of the highest-scoring Innings in IPL play:

Highest totals Score 246 / 5 240 / 5 232 / 2 231 / 4 223 / 5

Team

Opponent

Overs

Run Rate

Season

Ground

Chennai Super Kings Chennai Super Kings Kings XI Punjab Dehli Daredevils Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan Royals Kings XI Punjab Royal Challengers Bangalore Kings XI Punjab Chennai Super Kings

20 20 20 20 20

12.30 12.00 11.60 11.55 11.15

2010 2008 2011 2011 2010

chennai Mohali Dharamsala Delhi Chennai

Let’s take a look at some of the lowest-scoring Innings in IPL play:

Lowest totals Score 58 67 74 81 82

Team

Opponent

Overs

Run Rate

Season

Ground

Rajasthan Royals Kolkata Knight Riders Kochi Tuskers Kerala Rajasthan Royals Deccan Chargers

Royal Challengers Bangalore Mumbai Indians Deccan Chargers Kolkata Knight Riders Royal Challengers Bangalore

15.1 15.2 16.3 15.2 18.3

3.82 4.36 4.48 5.28 4.43

2009 2008 2011 2011 2010

Cape Town Mumbai Kochi Kolkata Mumbai

All data provided is courtesy of www.wikipedia.org and www.cricinfo.com

Saathee.com

Rajesh T. Ganatra Contact him at rajeshtganatra@rocketmail.com

March 2012

HALAL ME AVAILA AT BLE

Indo-Chinese Cuisine Catering Menu Available at our Website

www.asianafusionsushi.com Open for Lunch & Dinner Tuesday to Sunday (Closed Mondays)

Shops at Fresh Market - Cornelius, NC 704.896.8827 20601 Torrence Chapel Road, Cornelius, NC 28031

Save $65!

Call Save $65! Today Save Save $65! $65!

Save $65!

Save $65

CharlotteNC • Huntersville, NC Charlotte • Huntersville, Charlotte • Huntersville, NC

and 704-896-9699 704-542-5421 and704-542-5421 704-896-9699 Charlotte • Huntersville, NC 704-542-5421 and 704-896-9699 Save $65! Charlotte • Huntersville, NC

Charlotte • Huntersville, NC Charlotte • Huntersville, NC 704-542-5421 and 704-896-9699 704-542-5421 and 704-896-9699 MSA/AdvancEd MSA/AdvancEd 704-542-5421 and 704-896-9699 704-542-5421 and 704-896-9699 Independently owned ©2011 Huntington Mark, LLC. SATCollege and PSAT are registered trademarks of the Entrance Examination Board. ACT is a registered erated. ©2011 Huntington Mark, LLC. and SAToperated. and PSAT are registered trademarks of the Entrance Examination Board. ACT isCollege a registered MSA/AdvancEd

Independently owned and operated. ©2011 Huntington Mark, LLC. SAT and PSAT are registered trademarks of the College Entrance Examination Board. ACT is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. The College Entrance Examination Board and ACT, Inc. were not involved in the production of, and do not endorse, this program.

MSA/AdvancEd

of ACT, College Entrance Examination and ACT, Inc. not involved in the production and do not endorse, this program. , Inc. The College Entrancetrademark Examination BoardInc. andThe ACT, Inc. were not involved in the Board production of, and dowere not endorse, this program. MSA/AdvancEd Charlotte • of, Huntersville, NC

Save $65!

Independently owned and operated. ©2011 Huntington Mark, LLC. SAT MSA/AdvancEd and PSAT are registered trademarks of the College Entrance Examination Board. ACT is trademark of ACT, Inc. The College Entrance Examination Board and ACT, Inc. were not involved in the production of, and do not endorse, this progra

Saathee.com

704-542-5421 and 704-896-9699 MSA/AdvancEd $65! 73HuntingtonSave March 2012 Independently owned and operated. ©2011 Mark, LLC. SAT and PSAT are registered trademarks of the College Entrance Examination Board. ACT is a r

trademark of ACT, Inc. The College Entrance Examination Board and ACT, Inc. were not involved in the production of, and do not endorse, this program. Independently owned and operated. ©2011 Huntington Mark, LLC. SAT and PSAT are registered trademarks of the College Entrance Examination Board. ACT is a reg MSA/AdvancEd trademark of ACT, Inc. The College Entrance Examination Board and ACT, Inc. were not involved in the production of, and do not endorse, this program. Independently owned and operated. ©2011 Huntington Mark, LLC. SAT and PSAT are registered trademarks of the College Entrance Examination Board. ACT is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. The College Entrance Examination Board and ACT, Inc. were not involved in the production of, and do not endorse, this program.

cream, milk and butter; stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Pour into a greased 8-in. square baking dish. Bake at 400° for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Serve warm. Mango Corn Salsa Ingredients: 3 Serrano peppers 1/4 cup coarsely chopped red onion 1 bunch cilantro, chopped 2 small tomatoes, chopped 3 tablespoons rice vinegar 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 mango - peeled, seeded and diced 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper 1/2 cup fresh corn kernels 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon white sugar Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Corn: Versatile Vegetable The ancient civilizations of Olmec and Mayans cultivated Maize or corn in numerous varieties throughout central and southern Mexico. Between 1700 and 1250 BCE, the crop spread through much of the Americas. After European contact with the Americas in the late 15th and early 16th centuries, explorers and traders carried maize back to Europe and introduced it to other countries. Corn spread to the rest of the world due to its ability to grow in diverse climates. Sugarrich varieties called “sweet corn” are usually grown for human consumption, while “field corn” varieties are used for animal feed. Here are some recipes.

Method: Remove the stems from the Serrano peppers and place them (including seeds), the red onion, half the cilantro, and half the tomatoes into a food processor; process until smooth. Pour in the rice vinegar and olive oil; pulse until smooth. Stir together the remaining cilantro, the remaining tomatoes, the mango, green bell pepper, corn, cumin, and sugar in a medium bowl. Stir in the pepper mixture. Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Chill for one hour before serving.

Sweet Corn Cake Ingredients 1/2 cup butter, softened 1/3 cup masa harina (traditional Mexican flour) 1/4 cup water 1 1/2 cups frozen whole-kernel corn, thawed 1/4 cup cornmeal 1/3 cup sugar 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Corn Pudding Ingredients: 1 package (8 ounce size) cream cheese, softened 2 eggs, beaten 1/3 cup sugar 1 package (8.5 ounce size) corn bread or muffin mix 1 can (16 ounce size) cream-style corn 2 1/3 cups fresh or frozen sweet corn 1 cup milk 2 tablespoons margarine or butter, melted 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Method: In a medium bowl beat butter until it is creamy. Add the Mexican corn flour and water and beat until well mixed. Using a food processor, process thawed corn, but leave chunky. Stir into the butter mixture. In a separate bowl, mix cornmeal, sugar, cream, salt, and baking powder. Add to corn flour mixture and stir to combine. Pour batter into an ungreased 8x8 inch baking pan. Smooth batter and cover with aluminum foil. Place pan into a 9x13 inch baking dish that is filled a third of the way with water. Bake in a preheated 350° oven for 50 to 60 minutes. Allow to cool for 10 minutes. Use an ice cream scoop for easy removal from pan.

Method: Lightly grease Crock-Pot. In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese, eggs, and sugar. Add the remaining ingredients and mix well. Transfer to Crock-Pot. Cover and cook on High 3 to 4 hours. Serve. Southwestern Calico Corn Ingredients: 1 tablespoon canola oil 1 poblano pepper, diced 1 small red bell pepper, diced 2 cups fresh corn kernels 1 teaspoon chili powder ½ cup ground cumin ¼ teaspoon salt 1 (14 ounce) can hominy, rinsed

Corn Bread Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup cornmeal 1/4 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 egg, lightly beaten 1 cup sour cream 1/3 cup milk 1/4 cup butter, melted

Method: Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over med-high heat. Add poblano, bell pepper, and corn; cook, stirring occasionally, until just tender, 3-5 minutes. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and alt; cook for 30 seconds more. Add hominy and cook, stirring, Method: In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, sugar, until heated through, about two minutes. baking powder, baking soda and salt. Combine the egg, sour Saathee.com

March 2012

neW r LArGeo n LoCAtI Full Line of: • groceries • fresh snacks • fresh vegetables • fresh fish & Meat • new & old cd & dvds • gift items • ayurvedic Medicines • oxidized Temples • Kitchen items Fresh Vegetables everyDAy!

Indian Grocery

125 outlet Pointe blvd. • 803-750-9751

Columbia, SC 29210

Directions: We accept i-20 take exit 63 All Major Credit i-26 take exit 108 Cards & bush river rd., behind burger King Food stamps

open seven days a week: Monday 11-6, Tue-sun 11-7:30

Saathee.com

March 2012

USCIS Announces Expansion of E-Verify Self Check Online Tool Now Available Throughout the United States U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced that Self Check, a free online service of E-Verify that allows workers to check their own employment eligibility status, is now available in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands. Launched in March 2011 by Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano and USCIS Director Alejandro Mayorkas, today’s announcement delivers on the goal of expanding Self Check nationally within one year. “We are pleased to complete, ahead of schedule, our expansion of this important tool for employees,” said USCIS Director Alejandro Mayorkas during a press conference at the agency’s field office in Orlando, Fla. “Since our initial launch in March, approximately 67,000 people have used Self Check and we anticipate that participation will dramatically increase with service now available to individuals across the country.” Self Check was developed through a partnership between the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) to provide individuals a tool to check their own employment eligibility status, as well as guidance on how to correct their DHS and SSA records. It is the first online E-Verify service offered directly to workers. Available in English and Spanish, Self Check enables individuals to enter the same information into Self Check that employers enter into E-Verify. Since the program’s inception, thousands of individuals have used Self Check, available in English and Spanish, to access their federal employment eligibility records and for guidance on how to correct potential record discrepancies prior to the hiring process. In August 2011, Self Check became a bi-lingual service available to users in both English and Spanish, broadening the scope of the program to members of our U.S. workforce who are more comfortable reading Spanish-language materials. For more information on Self Check, visit www.uscis.gov/selfcheck. For more information on USCIS and its programs, please visit www.uscis.gov to receive email updates or follow us on Twitter (@uscis), YouTube (/uscis) and the USCIS blog The Beacon.

United States and assist in the investigation or prosecution of the crime. These visas also provide a pathway to lawful permanent residence and permit certain family members to join them in the United States. Earlier last month, Secretary Napolitano met Shiyma Hall, a young woman who was forced into domestic servitude when she was 9 years old. Today, Shiyma is free, and through the immigration benefits provided by USCIS, she is now a United States citizen. USCIS recently unveiled new resources and produced a video to highlight the immigration benefits available to victims of crime. There is also Web-based training for law enforcement officials, and USCIS has provided more than 30 in-person trainings on combating human trafficking and the immigration benefits available for victims to Federal, State, and local law enforcement officials nationwide. Given the sensitive nature of cases surrounding victims’ protection, USCIS implemented confidentiality safeguards for individuals with applications associated with Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitions or T or U nonimmigrant petitions. For more information on the Department’s efforts to combat human trafficking, visit www.dhs.gov/humantrafficking or www.uscis.gov/humantrafficking. To report human trafficking call the ICE tip line at 1-866-347-2423, and for related questions or to speak to a non-governmental representative, call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center at 1-888-373-7888.

USCIS Combats Human Trafficking Every year, thousands of innocent men, women, and children are exploited in human trafficking schemes around the world and right here in the United States. Victims are often lured from their homes with false promises of well-paying jobs and a better life. They are instead forced or coerced into prostitution, domestic servitude, farm or factory work, or other types of forced labor. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) also works with the DHS Blue Campaign’s efforts to combat human trafficking by helping to protect victims of these horrible crimes. USCIS provides immigration relief in the form of T visas and U visas, which allow victims to remain in the Saathee.com

Analysis: Iran Sanctions continued from page 12

the problem Iran presents in terms of its nuclear ambitions is narrowing the larger strategic geopolitical considerations that must go into any decision making involving such a volatile region,” said Sibal. India is already hedging its position and moving to scale back its dependence on Iran’s oil, according to a report by the US Congressional Research Service. But that will take time. And India still hopes to use those “larger strategic geopolitical considerations” to angle for a temporary waiver or an exemption for its oil imports. Scuttling its relationship with Iran, the argument runs, would cut off India’s access to Afghanistan. Therefore, an end to the oil trade might also spell an end to India’s aid in the post-war reconstruction effort — where, despite Pakistan’s objections, India’s functional-if-chaotic democracy may offer the best hope for creating effective civil institutions. Moreover, weakening New Delhi’s influence in Tehran will increase Beijing’s, not Washington’s. But Obama should be looking further toward the horizon — beyond the upcoming election or the withdrawal from Afghanistan. The US strategic partnership with India could be very important for the US’ future in Asia, if Washington treats India as an ally and not a vassal. “Washington must not take a litmus test approach, in the sense that if you don’t get a fighter contract or nuclear liability law then the relationship is doomed,” said Mansingh. “As I see it, we’ve had the strategic partnership for about a decade now, and it’s doing quite well. But if you take each of these high profile cases as a test, it’s not going to work.” March 2012

♦ MARCH SPECIAL: $25 OFF ♦

This is the Best buyers' market I have ever seen! If you are considering buying a home within the next 12 months, now is the time to get the ball rolling. With my negotiation skills, I helped save previous clients more money than they expected and they were able to put that money into other personal things that was on their wish list. Before signing up with another Realtor, come meet with me and you will be convinced I am the perfect Realtor to have on your side.

Selling a home? Call and ask me how your home can be the featured home on charlottearea.com for FREE! Buying a home? Log on to charlottearea.com, try our customized search and get results tailored specifically to your needs. Looking for a short sale or foreclosure opportunity? I know of many great deals that you may not be aware of. Call me to get a list of what is available.

Direct: 704-299-1790 kam@charlottearea.com KAMLESH PARDASANI (BROKER) Saathee.com

March 2012

Pakistan’s

Three-headed Monster A political turf war between Pakistan’s military, government and judiciary is crippling the country. By Suzanna Koster - GlobalPost.com ISLAMABAD — Pakistan’s story has long been dominated by a power struggle between its two main characters: the country’s mighty military and its weak civilian government. Now, as if the story weren’t sordid enough, the rise of Pakistan’s judiciary has introduced a third character, one that analysts worry could be highly unpredictable. Its power was on display last month when the country’s Supreme Court formally charged Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani with contempt of court, a move that could eventually lead to the leader’s dismissal. And then, not to appear unfair, the court took on the military as well. For the first time in the country’s history, Pakistan’s Supreme Court forced the Inter-Services Intelligence agency (ISI), the country’s formidable spy organization, to bring before the court seven prisoners it is accused of detaining illegally. Proponents and critics raise points from both ends regarding the surge of the judiciary’s power. A stronger judiciary, one that is willing to hold the government and the military accountable, could be good for Pakistan, observers said. But many of them remain wary, unsure whether the court’s intentions are honorable or dubious. Gilani, flanked by ministers, governors, coalition partners and other supporters, appeared surprisingly calm during his visit to the court. Outside the imposing courthouse, helicopters hovered and riot police guarded the entrance. Gilani is charged with contempt for not writing a letter to the Swiss authorities asking them to reopen corruption cases against President Asif Ali Zardari, who as head of the ruling political party, and is also his boss. Gilani pleaded not guilty, arguing that Zardari enjoys immunity as president. Constitutional experts say that if convicted, Gilani could appeal. And as a last resort, the president could pardon him. Gilani said in a recent interview with Al Jazeera however that, if convicted, he would automatically lose his parliamentary seat and thereby his post as prime minister. It would be a major shake-up for the civilian government, which has so far survived multiple confrontations with the military and the judiciary and as a result, and against all odds, has become the longest-serving civilian administration since the 1970s. The Supreme Court also heard the case of eleven prisoners in custody of ISI – four of whom died in mysterious circumstances. The court had asked the shadowy spy agency to produce the seven remaining prisoners before the court twice last week, but they never showed. The court persisted, and officials at ISI finally relented late last month. The prisoners looked frail, with dark circles around their eyes. A number of them needed someone’s support to walk, and one held a catheter. The chief justice ordered hospital treatment for all seven. The next hearing is scheduled for March 1 and will seek to clarify, among other things, how the four died and whether or not any of the prisoners received a fair trial. Saathee.com

The seven men had an emotional reunion with family members who they had seen only a few times since they were picked up by the spy agency almost five years ago. “Prove our crime! Prove our crime!” screamed Mohammad Shafiq, one of the detained prisoners, as his brother held him. Asked whether he thought justice would be served, he shook his head and tears ran down his face. “Why not?” The two cases seem to indicate that the country’s judiciary is asserting its independence and, perhaps, a new found bravura that began to develop during the rule of former President Pervez Musharraf. Pakistani judges had in the past largely been lackeys of the government and the military. But when Musharraf suspended Chief Justice Iftikhar Mohammad Chaudhry for “abuse of office” in 2007, a march toward greater independence began. Musharraf’s move was widely seen as an attempt to preempt a court decision that would have invalidated his reelection. Thousands of emotional protesters, led by prominent lawyers, took to the streets. Never before had Pakistan’s judiciary enjoyed such popular support. In 2008, after the election of the current government and a year of prodding, Chaudhry was finally reinstated. Since then, Pakistan’s judiciary has become more aggressive, drawing its power in part from widespread dissatisfaction with the performance of the civilian government and from a press that is asking more questions than it did a decade ago. Although the government has been tripped up by its clashes with the military and the courts, the public hasn’t forgiven it for presiding over a period of economy disaster. Double-digit inflation has plagued Pakistan for the greater part of the government’s tenure and foreign direct investment has dropped significantly in the face of security concerns. A severe energy crisis has also hampered economic growth, which is already not half of what it needs to be to sustain the yearly influx of new workers. The media has also played an important role in the militaryjudiciary-government power equation, said Ali Dayan Hassan, director of Human Rights Watch in Pakistan. In the last 10 years, it has presented more alternative views than Pakistan has ever seen before, but it still faces taboos. “You have a situation where there are three actors engaging in a political turf-war and the media is only really free to hold one of them in account. It is not that some media do not try and do it, but if the prime minister can be summoned for contempt of court, so can any journalist,” he said. Many journalists in Pakistan censor themselves to protect against possible retaliation from the military, the courts or the government. The courts, it seems, much like the military, appear to be interested in more than the fair application of the rule of law. Opponents say it has ventured too far into the political realm, which could ultimately hurt the country’s efforts at democratic reform. “The Supreme Court has literally taken over executive functions. Even if we take the chief justice’s intentions positively, it is still dangerous. It has to keep status quo. It is not meant to be a revolutionary institution,” said Fawad Hussain Chaudhry, a lawyer from Lahore. The Supreme Court has intervened on political decisions repeatedly since its chief was reinstated. It nullified the carbon tax a week after the government introduced it, for instance. It also suspended the privatization of state companies and even, at one point, set sugar prices, a move many saw as an obvious continued on page 82 78

March 2012

Serving the South Asian community

We Speak Hindi & Punjabi

looking for Multilingual Priest to Perform Hindu Rituals at your home?

704.971.3030

(Fax): 704.971.3033

www.mwoodford.com

Matt Woodford STATE FARM AGENT

Arjun Singh arjun.singh.uki5@statefarm.com

matt.woodford.rv32@statefarm.com

3220 Prosperity Church Rd., Suite 102, Charlotte, NC 28269

Buying? Selling? Relocating?

You Can Call Sastriji for Wedding, Upanayam, Various types of Hawans, Grapravesh, Sri Sathyanarayan Katha,

If the answer to any of the above is yes, then you should call me! My job is to make the process as easy as possible for you and to provide the best value for your dollar.

Bhoomi Puja, and Astrology

Contact Sastriji @ 704-231-0751 or 704-625-7578. Email: sastrigal2003@yahoo.com

Your satisfaction is my number one priority. I speak fluent English, Hindi, Marathi, and Gujarati.

Beena Thakkar

704-293-5323 • E-Mail: beenathakkar05@yahoo.com

Over 35 years experience

Licenced in North and South Carolina

Spice Group Catering Available Hosting Private Events

Spice

9 8145 Ardrey Kell Rd. Charlotte, NC 28277 704-246-6538

230 East WT Harris Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28202 980-322-0049 Formerly Chingari

127 N.Tryon Charlotte, NC 28202 704-887-9707

xpress

127 N.Tryon Charlotte, NC 28202 704-887-9707

Spice Bakes Coming Soon!

Not affiliated with Spice 9 in Concord. Saathee.com

March 2012

Marketing Turnaround

Maldives Coup

continued from page 62

continued from page 36

to Maldivians, this papers over many of Nasheed’s flaws while ignoring former autocrat Gayoom’s strengths. “Gayoom is probably the shrewdest politician Maldives has ever seen,” said Arzan, a former activist who campaigned against Gayoom’s regime. “A lot of credit goes to Nasheed, he was very courageous. Nasheed was a populist but not a popular person. “Gayoom did not think he could lose the election. To be fair he almost did win — he got 45 percent of the vote while Nasheed only got a bit over 20 percent. The only way Nasheed defeated Gayoom was that in the second round run-off the opposition coalesced around him. And soon after all his coalition partners deserted him.” In fact, Nasheed was not what he seemed to be in many regards. His most high-profile international accomplishments have been in climate change protest. He famously held an underwater cabinet meeting, was regarded as one of the few who stood up to bullying by the United States and China in United Nations climate change conferences, and had unveiled a widely praised initiative to make Maldives carbon neutral by 2020. At home though, there have been few signs of anything actually being done. “As far as domestic environmental policy is concerned, he hasn’t delivered. No one knows how carbon neutral by 2020 is going to be financed or how it’s going to be achieved,” said Arzan. More damning are allegations of corruption towards Nasheed’s close supporters and advisors. “I feel disappointed [in Nasheed],” said Ahmed, “because his government turned out to be corrupt too.” “The joke here is that if you don’t give me a lagoon to develop as a resort, then I won’t support you for the next election,” said Afzan. “And you’ll usually get the island.” Many supporters were disillusioned when the country’s anticorruption commission, comprised of nominees by Nasheed himself, was overruled by the government in its decision to stop a US$20 million land development project because the bidding process was unfair. The beneficiary of the project was Reeko Moosa Manik, the present interim chairperson of MDP. Ahmed says he no longer supports Nasheed, but that he could never support Gayoom’s party either. If elections are forthcoming, he does not plan to vote. He describes Nasheed as humble and friendly as a person, but arrogant as a politician. “My personal view in retrospect is he overstepped in arresting Judge Abdulla. It was an unwise thing to do in hindsight,” said Nasheed’s advisor Roberts. When Nasheed resigned, the statement he made said that he would rather give up power than use excessive force to cling to it. It reinforced his image within the international community, and even domestically it helped redeem him briefly. “I thought he looked so presidential,” said Hasan, the opposition MP, “resigning rather than hanging on to power. Of course, now he’s changed his tune …” Since Nasheed changed his tune, the international media have begun to discover the less savory truths about his record. It is becoming increasingly clear that Nasheed’s claims that it was a coup are truthful, but his reputation has suffered with the revelations that have accompanied that conclusion. Saathee.com

keyword for free in your PR and on your Website to make sure it delivers a high number of click-throughs? The trick with pay-for-keyword advertising is to identify keywords that do a great job at driving your ideal customer to your subject and that are fairly popular but that aren’t the most frequently used words for that subject. Here’s where you go back to the Google Keyword Tool and to your own track record using the keywords you’ve chosen and see if there’s a “star” keyword that works for you but hasn’t been discovered by everyone else. This keyword may relate to a unique feature you offer, or it may be less popular than the top words yet with a large enough search volume to satisfy your Web traffic goals. Keywords also play an important role in Facebook ads. Facebook ads allow you to set a budget by day as well as an overall campaign cap. You can set the demographics to determine who sees your ad, and choose to pay by either impressions or click-throughs. “Impressions” refers to how many times your ad came up on other people’s pages (but there’s no guarantee that they read it). It’s like the traffic that drives past a billboard along the highway—they may or may not be looking as they zoom by. “Click-throughs” are the number of times someone actually clicks on your advertisement. In the billboard analogy, it’s like the people who dial the number they see on the billboard, taking action based on the promotion. Whether you’re using keywords in PR or in paid online advertising, remember that the popularity of terms (and their relevancy to your company’s business) changes over time. Revisit the keywords you’re using every few months to add new, more popular terms and to weed out terms that have outlived their popularity. I suggest keeping a piece of paper handy by your computer to jot down keyword ideas as you surf the Web. The Internet is constantly changing, so your campaigns need to be just as flexible and willing to adapt. (Excerpted from the brand new book 30 Days to Online PR and Marketing Success: The 30 Day Results Guide to Making the Most of Twitter, Facebook, Linked In and Blogging to Grab Headlines and Get Clients by Gail Z. Martin) For more information, visit www.GailMartinMarketing.com, or “like” Gail’s page at www.facebook.com/30DayResultsGuide.

Looking for a Job or a business? Want to take music lessons? Want to Sell a business? CHECk Out tHE SAAtHEE ClASSIFIEdS! Page 122

Saathee Classifieds. they Work For YOu! An inexpensive way to reach thousands of South Asians throughout the Carolinas.

Saathee 704-527-7570 or e-mail: saatheemag@hotmail.com Classifieds also available at www.saathee.com March 2012

Making a World of Diﬀerence

ABACUS_MATH

Smart Math

Japanese and Chinese method of mental math helps your child to enrich and unleash their full potential.

Improves their Memory, Computation, Concentration, Speed & Confidence in class. Grades: elementary School

British American School of Charlotte Laying the Foundations for learning early in life is critical and engaging young children in a nurturing, structured, educational environment is proven to make all the diﬀerence to children’s future success. We are proud to announce the expansion of our Early Years Foundation Stage to include a new 2 year old program, setting an unparalleled standard in early childhood education. Come and take a personal tour and find out first hand why it is we make a world of diﬀerence.

704.341.3236 admissionsbasc@wclschools.org

www.britishschoolofcharlotte.org

For more info please call

704 455 1449 abacus_math@yahoo.com

For ages 2 to 16

Location: university Area & Ballantyne

SPICES Of INDIA & GROCERIES 544 Saint Andrews Rd Columbia SC 29210 803-772-1880 Next To Delhi Palace. we accept EBT. www.spicesofindiasc.com

Special Discount: 10% OFF on Groceries with purchase of $50 or more.

Excluding: Atta, Rice & Oil 35lbs. Not valid with any other offers. Restrictions may apply. Exp 4/5/11

Open 7 Days A Week Lunch Buffet 7 Days A Week Dinner A La Carte

Special Weekend Dinner Buffet Includes South Indian Cuisine

542 Saint Andrew Rd. Columbia, SC 29210

DelhiPalaceSC.com

803.750.7760 Fax: 803.750.7765

Specialized in Catering Large Parties! Banquet Hall Available Serving: SC, NC, GA & Surrounding Areas Saathee.com

March 2012

Books

Pakistan’s Three-Headed Monster

continued from page 40

continued from page 78

that may not have been the real reason behind the destruction, it’s telling that the shop owners suspected it could be the cause. Inskeep approaches the task as a journalist, using interviews and personal experiences in order to frame his narrative, and it works well to keep the reader engaged in the story. He puts a human face on the issues Karachi is facing, such that the reader becomes personally involved in the story he is trying to tell. However, the downside to this approach is that the reader doesn’t get a comprehensive and cohesive narrative of modern Karachi. Instead, it’s fragmented and a bit choppy, and Inskeep has a tendency to repeat himself. Still, “Instant City: Life and Death in Karachi” is a book worth reading. Inskeep does a wonderful job illuminating the rise of the instant city and highlighting the problems they face. His writing style is clear and engaging; the narrative never becomes dry, and easily keeps the reader’s attention. The Whole Story of Half a Girl Author: Veera Hiranandani (Delacorte Books for Young Readers) Sonia Nadhamuni’s life is changing drastically as she enters the sixth grade. Her father has lost his job and sunk into a depression, and her mother is working harder than ever to provide for her family. Sonia no longer can attend the prestigious private school she has loved her whole life. She is sent to a public school, leaving behind her friends and everything she knows, and she must find her place in this unfamiliar world. In “The Whole Story of Half a Girl,” we are introduced to Sonia Nadhamuni, a girl who thinks she is a half, rather than a whole. With an Indian father and a Jewish mother, Sonia feels like she is neither Indian, nor Jewish. She struggles to find some sort of identity while also trying to fit in at her new school. She wants to stay true to herself, but friends are also important to Sonia. But how does she know whether she’s betraying who she is in order to fit in if Sonia doesn’t really know herself in the first place? Hiranandani portrays a confused and lost girl on the verge of adolescence, someone desperately seeking some sort of identity in the confused world she finds herself in.

over-stepping of its responsibilities. Average Pakistanis have also accused the court of targeting the government unfairly, leading to conspiracy theories that the court is being supported by the military, which has at times acted openly hostile toward the current civilian leadership. A wave of public criticism may have persuaded the Supreme Court to pursue the case of the eleven prisoners, as well as another, 15-year old case that accuses the ISI of using taxpayer’s money to support political opposition parties in the 1990s. For others, the Supreme Court is a modern judicial Robin Hood. Analysts say it has recovered tens of billions of rupees (comparable to hundreds of millions of US dollars) by pursuing corruption cases. “Imagine, had there been no judicial activism, Pakistan would have been in further abyss,” said Umar Cheema, an investigative reporter for The News, a daily newspaper based in Islamabad. The rise of the judiciary comes at a time when the original battle, the one between the government and the military, is beginning to change. Lacking popular support, the military is no longer able launch an overt take-over, as it had before — three times in the last 64 years. Rashid Rehman, editor of the Daily Times, another Pakistani newspaper, said that opposition political parties are no longer willing to back a coup, which has forced the military to devise other ways to vie for power. A battle between the two erupted earlier this year with the surfacing of an unsigned memo, allegedly written by Pakistan’s government that asked for Washington’s help in preventing a military take-over. The courts, of all institutions, will likely be forced to resolve the fight, which has been dubbed Memogate by the media. A judicial commission is set to hear the main witness, the Pakistani-American Mansoor Ijaz, who first revealed the existence of the memo last year, on Feb. 22, via a video link from the Pakistani embassy in London. The turf-war between the three groups has two possible outcomes, said Hassan, one very good and one very bad. “Either this process will lead to all stakeholders to understand the limits of their domains, or it will lead to confrontation and a breakdown of constitutional order,” he said.

Sonia is an endearing character, a well-written and fully realized young woman. Hiranandani did an admirable job ﬂeshing her out; she is realistically ﬂawed. While Sonia doesn’t always make the right choices, the reader can always understand why and sympathize with what she’s experiencing. Her troubles at home also contribute to Sonia’s confusion; she doesn’t know how to handle what is going on around her.

M u sic l esso n s & l ive S h o ws Harmonium & Keyboard

- Learn Music the Easy Way!

“The Whole Story of Half a Girl” is funny, engaging, and has a memorable protagonist in Sonia. The answers to her problems never come to her easily and are often realistically messy. It’s gratifying to watch Sonia grow up over the course of the book and really see her ﬁnd an identity, and even moreso for her to realize that it’s okay to be half. Being half-Jewish and halfIndian might be confusing, but it’s something to embrace, and Hiranandani portrays that struggle for identity beautifully in her debut novel. Saathee.com

- Individual & Group Lessons - From Ages 8 to 80 BOOk Our Band fOr live ShOwS Garba/Raas, Wedding Songs, Bhajans, Film Songs...

Kirit Shukla (704) 568-8206 82

March 2012

Accounting & Tax Services www.JaySwaminarayanTax.com • Tax preparation for Individual & Business • Bookkeeping, Sale Tax & Payroll Services • Small Business Financial Statement Review & Analysis • New Business Registration Consulting • ITIN Applications

Contact: Kirti Parmar Tel: (704) 971-2055 Fax: (980) 321-7151 info@JaySwaminarayanTax.com 14952 Havasu St, Charlotte, NC 28273

FoR WeddINGS, SoCIAL FuNCtIoNS ANd Get toGetHeRS

save up to 50% call now engagements Weddings Proms Portraits birthdays parties

• Specialized in BRIdAL MeHeNdI (Indian, Arabic, Akhati Styles) • ARABIC MeHeNdI • tAtooS • MeHeNdI CoACHING (Basic and Advance Course)

BHAVINI PAteL Call – (704) 544 6536 Website: mehendi4bride.webs.com, e-mail:patelbhavini@ymail.com

980-254-5355 www.s-sphotostudio.com

Serving Both Carolinas

HeNNA / MeHeNdI ARtISt

COME ENjOY OUR dELICIOUS FOOd.

Jaipur

Catering for all occasions.

Serving nC, SC & surrounding areas. Free delivery to hotels! Banquet Hall Available.

Indian Cuisine

Lunch Buffet Mon-Fri (11 AM - 2:30 PM) Sat-Sun (Noon - 3 PM) Including South Indian Weekend Dinner Buffet Fri-Sat-Sun 5:30 PM - 10 PM Including South Indian, Pani Puri, Dhosa, Bhel Puri, Chaat & more. Over 45 items. Different main course every weekend! Dinner A La Carte – Seven Days 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM

BUY 1 GET 2ND AT HALF PRICE Veg & Chicken only. Dine-in. Mon. - Thurs. only. One coupon per table. Dinner Only. Excludes Buffet. Exp 4.05.12

AUTHENTIC dELICACIES FROM NORTHERN ANd SOUTHERN INdIA

5909 South Blvd. • Charlotte, NC 28217 • (704) 643-1421 • www.jaipur-indian.com Fax: (704) 643-1325 Saathee.com

2 Minutes from Bombay Bazaar & Payal Groceries 83

March 2012

Events of Note

for the Performing Arts, Washington, DC. Details: www.wpas.org. Thursday, April 5, 2012, 8 pm at the Savannah Music Festival, Savannah, GA. Details: www.savannahmusicfestival.org.

India Fest 2012 The annual “India Fest - Your Gateway to India” will be held at the Dorton Arena, Raleigh from Saturday, March 24 Sunday, March 25. Stage performance, vendor booths, advertising, and volunteer registration for India Fest 2012 are now open. The annual festival is organized by Nuv Yug to help preserve and promote Indian cultural arts by producing programs of high artistic merit that entertain and educate. The Hindi phrase “Nuv Yug” means “new era” or “new generation.” Since 2003, Nuv Yug’s flagship event India Fest - Your Gateway to India has been organized with support from City of Raleigh Arts Commission and many other organizations and individuals. India Fest attracts over 1,000 stage performers, who present over 100 dance and music items during the festival. During the weekend, traditional crafts vendors from New York, Chicago and Florida in addition to many local vendors showcase crafts from India. And, area’s top restaurants offer famous Indian delicacies to visitors. For further details visit www.nuvyug.net.

Cheti Chand 2012 The Sindhi New Year will be celebrated on Sunday, March 25, 2012 at the Hindu Center in Charlotte beginning at 5pm with Lord Jhulelal pooja and bharat, followed by snack and tea and stage show with entertainment. A religious Thal dance will follow with traditional Sindhi dinner rounding out the event. For further details call Bina Bhojwani 704.334.2462 or Loku Hemnani 704.231.3056.The Hindu Center website is www.hcclt.org. Savannah Music Festival The annual Savannah Music Festival is dedicated to presenting a celebration of the musical arts by creating timeless and adventurous productions that stimulate arts education, foster economic growth, and unite artists and audiences in Savannah. It is Georgia’s largest musical arts event and one of the most distinctive cross-genre music festivals in the world. In addition to an array of musical performances that includes dance, film, and narrative programs, the festival operates year-round to produce youth concerts, lectures, in-school touring programs, recordings, a weekly radio series, an annual high school jazz band competition and festival, and interactive websites. SMF stages original, one-time only productions, premieres and doublebills, including commissioned works and unique series. The annual festival features jazz, blues, classical, world music, bluegrass, folk, and experimental artists. The festival will take place March 22 – April 7, 2012 at various venues in Savannah. For further details visit www.savannahmusicfestival.org.

Aag Ki Raat 2012 The University of South Carolina’s Indian Cultural Exchange (ICE) will present “Aag Ki Raat 2012 - Night of Fire” on Saturday March 31, 2012 beginning at 6:30 pm. It is a dance competition that consists of nine teams from the East Coast in three categories: Bhangra, Fusion, and Raas. The teams performing are Bhangra: NC State Wolfpack and UNC Bhangra Elite. Fusion: Champa & Chamel, GT Qurbani, and Buckeye Fusion. Raas: Duke DBS, UNC Tar Heel Raas, and OSU Raas. There is an overall grand prize of at least $1200 and two prizes each of $650 for best categories. Proceeds from the event will be donated to the charity group Ekal Vidyalaya. This year the show’s chairman, Ishwari Amin, and ICE’s executive board organized the show. Emcees for the event are Kavita Patel and Priyanka Juneja. The show, along with dances, will feature entertainment, skits, and more. The competition will be held at the Koger Center, Columbia, SC. Ticket prices are: $10 for students, $12 general admission, and $15 at the door. For further details contact: aagkiraat2012@gmail.com or call 864.357.0223. For tickets visit www.capitoltickets.com - scroll to the bottom of the page and click on buy tickets.

Vocal Concert by Jayateerth Mevundi Jayateerth Mevundi hails from the land of great vocalists and maestros of Hindustani Classical Music, like Pt. Bhimsen Joshi, Dr. (Mrs.) Gangubai Hangal, Pt. Mallikarjun Mansur, Pt. Basavraj Rajguru and Pt. Kumar Gandharva and so on. Mevundi is considered to be a torchbearer of Kirana Gharana. He received his initial training in music under the tutelage of Sangeet Ratna Pt. Arjunsa Nakod of Gwalior Gharana for about 10 years. Since 1994 he has been under the guidance of Pt. Shripati Padegar, who is a disciple of the legendary Pt. Bhimsen Joshi of Kirana Gharana. Mevundi has won many accolades and awards through the years. The Indian Performing Arts Association of Charlotte will present Mevundi in concert on Saturday, March 31, 2012 beginning at 6 pm. The venue is CPCC, Central Campus. The tickets are General Admission $30, Reserved Seats $50, and IPAAC members free. For further details visit www.ipaac.org.

Zakir Hussain and the Masters of Percussion Tabla master Zakir Hussain is touring with the fabulous masters of percussion. The troupe will be in the Southeast on following dates and venues: Friday, March 16, 2012, 8 pm at the American Theatre, Hampton, VA. Details: www.hamptonarts.net. Saturday, March 17, 2012, 3 pm at the John F. Kennedy Center Saathee.com

March 2012

IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY White Insurance Agency Black Mountain NC 28711

LAW OFFICES OF DAVID A. CONCHA 725 East Trade St., Suite 215(Court Arcade Building) Charlotte, NC 28202 Tel: 704-525-8824 Fax: 704-525-8820

Multi State Agency Serving the community for over 55 years.

IMMIGRATION SERVICES: -Residency (green cards) -Citizenship

www.whiteinsurance.com

-Fiancé visas(K) -Labor Certification -H1-B L-1 O-1

- Removal & Deportation Defense

Deepak Poplai 877-944-8347 dpoplai@whiteinsurance.com

-General Immigration Matters

Insurance Professionals Specializing in

SERVING THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY My parents are IMMIGRANTS therefore I can understand your situation. You will be treated with the utmost integrity and respect. Saturday and telephone consultations available

the Hospitality Industry Convenience Stores Restaurants Construction Apartment Complexes

We can also serve your needs in the following areas:

David A. Concha Attorney

Auto Accidents Workman’s Compensation DWI, Speeding Revoked Licence and Similiar Traffic Infractions and Simple Divorce

Member American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA)

Saathee.com

March 2012

Full Frame Film Festival 2012 Full Frame Documentary Film Festival is an annual international event dedicated to the theatrical exhibition of nonfiction cinema. Each spring Full Frame welcomes filmmakers and film lovers from around the world to historic downtown Durham, NC for a four-day, morning to midnight array of over 100 films as well as discussions, panels, and southern hospitality. Set within a four-block radius, the intimate festival landscape fosters community and conversation between filmmakers, film professionals and the public. Presenting Sponsor of the Festival is Duke University. Full Frame serves the documentary form and its community by showcasing the contemporary work of established and emerging filmmakers. The festival provides a space that nurtures conversation between artists, students, and the Full Frame audience. Full Frame is committed to enhancing public understanding and appreciation of the art form and its significance, while making films more accessible to a wider audience. The festival will take place on April 12-15, 2012. For further details visit www.fullframefest.org.

AAHOA Convention and Trade Show 2012 The Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) annual Convention & Trade Show takes place in Atlanta, GA from May 2-5, 2012, at the Omni Hotel and the Georgia World Congress Center. With nearly 11,000 members owning more than 20,000 hotels that total $128 billion in property value, AAHOA is one of the fastest-growing organizations in the hospitality industry. This event promises to be unlike any other as well as the showcase event for the voice of hotel owners in the industry. The AAHOA Annual Convention & Trade Show offers something for everyone. From the trade show that offers one-stop shopping for every hotelier to the educational programs and esteemed guest speakers, the event will also feature authentic Indian cuisine, world-class entertainment, Bollywood performances, and more. For further details visit www.aahoa.com. Asian Festival and Dragon Boat Festival The 13th Annual Charlotte Asian Festival is a family-oriented event for the Asian and non-Asian community in the Charlotte area. The festival celebrates Asian cultures, diversity, ethnicity, roots and history. The Charlotte Dragon Boat Festival Race is an exciting team competition that has become a part of the Asian Festival. An important part of the traditional Chinese calendar, dragon boat racing originated over 2,300 years ago on the rivers of southern China. The Charlotte race is an open competition to anyone 15 years of age or older. The Charlotte Asian Festival and Dragon Boat Festival Race are organized by the Carolinas Asian-American Chamber of Commerce, Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation, and the Charlotte Dragon Boat Association. This year’s festivities will happen on Saturday, May 5, 2012. For further details visit www.charlottedragonboat.com.

Anoushka Shankar Sitar master Anoushka Shankar and the Traveler Ensemble will perform the “Flamenco Journey” on Saturday, April 14, 2012 (7 pm) at the Page Auditorium, Duke University, Durham NC. The ensemble includes Anoushka Shankar (Sitar), Sandra Carrasco (Vocals), Sanjeev Shankar (Shehnai), Pirashanna Thevarajah (Mridangam, ghatam, kanjira), Melon Jimenez (Flamenco guitar), and Bernhard Schimpelsberger (Cajon and Spanish percussion). To begin her exclusive recording contract with Deutsche Grammophon, the superlative sitarist Anoushka Shankar enlisted top players from India and Spain to record Community Reports her album Traveller, breaking Dhoom Machale V new ground between South The fifth annual fundraiser Asian classical and Spanish “Dhoom Machale V” took dance music - as befits the place in Charlotte, NC on innovative legacy of her father Friday, January 27, 2012 at and mentor, the great Ravi the Dharma Lounge in Shankar. At Page Auditorium, downtown. Music was with traditional instruments from India and Spain, Shankar`s provided by DJ Ran ensemble condenses Gypsy music`s thousand-year migration (Masala Beat Club from India to Europe into one exceptional evening, where Raleigh). The annual Andalusian flamencos and Carnatic ragas merge seamlessly. For further details on the concert visit event, sponsored by Disha, raises funds that support various philanthropic causes. For more details on Disha and their www.dukeperformances.duke.edu/calendar. charitable efforts visit: http://disha.iacofcarolinas.org/Index.html. Dances of India 2012 The 11th annual Dances of India returns at the CPCC Central Campus, Dale F. Halton Theater, Overcash Center on Saturday, April 28, 2012 at 4 pm. The show will feature acclaimed performer Dr. Maha Gingrich and group. Celebrate unity and diversity within Charlotte’s international community. Experience traditional Indian classical and folk dances – rhythmic dance styles that tell the story of ancient India through lyrical movement and music. Tickets are $10, adults; $5, school-age children. For details call 704.330.6534 or visit tix.cpcc.edu. Free parking available in the faculty/staff parking deck located on 4th Street. Saathee.com

March 2012

Serving Buyers and Sellers Since 1989 Our experienced and talented agents can speak English, Hindi & Gujarati Let Us Help You Buy or Sell A Business

County South Realty & Business Brokers 1300 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd Matthews, NC 28105

704-814-9435 fax-866-876-9980

www.countysouth.biz

Offering Motels, Restaurants, Dry Cleaners, Laundromats, Convenience Stores, Land and more C-STORES: Mills River, NC, $1.1M + Inv., GR $3M Fayetteville, NC, $850K + Inv., GR $1.8M

DRy CLEANERS: Charleston, SC, $249K + Inv., GR $300K Charlotte, NC, $150K + Inv., GR $300K

MOTEL:

Lenoir, NC, $599K + Inv., GR $1.2M Mocksville, NC, $99K + Inv., GR $1.8M Rock Hill SC, $1.1M + Inv., GR $3.8M Archdale, NC, $825K + Inv., GR $1.7M Monroe, NC, $100K + Inv., GR $1.5M

Charlotte, NC, $1.2M + Inv., $422K Room Revenue Rutherfordton, NC, $440K + Inv., $60K Room Revenue

CONvENIENCE STORE wHOLESALER:

Charlotte, NC, $129K + Inv., GR $360K Leland, NC, $369K + Inv., GR $7.2M Greensboro, NC, $950K + Inv., GR $2.0M

Greensboro, NC, $899K + Inv., GR $1.0M

More listings available at our website:

Saathee.com

www.countysouth.biz March 2012

Every Sunday at 3 pm... Since 1998.

ON TIME WARNER CABLE - Every Sunday Charlotte - TWC Channel 9 (3-4pm) Raleigh/Dur./Triangle - TWC Channel 24 (3-4pm) Gastonia - TWC Channel 9 (3-4pm) Concord/Kannapolis - TWC Ch. 9 or 19 (3-4pm) Monroe & Waxhaw - TWC Channel 9 (3-4pm) Salisbury - TWC Channel 9 or 19 (3-4pm) Albemarle - TWC Channel 9 or 19 (3-4pm)

Complete Listings at Saathee.com

Hosted by Divakar Shukla

For details or advertising information call 704-527-7570

• Fixed rates for loans < $417k are at all time lows • Jumbo ARMs (> $417k) APR’s in the mid 3% range • Competitive and transparent pricing

Maneesh Pathak (Loan Officer NMLS # 69811)

Work: 704-644-3697 Mobile: 704-661-4904 maneesh@goFHM.com

Saathee.com

www.FairviewHomeMortgage.com 521 East Blvd., Ste.100, Charlotte, NC 28203 (Fairview Home Mortgage NMLS # 40551)

March 2012

Contact for further details Rev. Dr. K.C. Paul (704.771.1414), Rajan Mathew (704.756.4969), Jose Varughese (704.453.6177), Varughese K. Thomas (803.322.9549).

Charlotte Art of Living (Healing with the Breath) Art of Living is dedicated to serving society by strengthening the individual. This is done through self-development programs that recharge the body, mind and spirit and allow people to function at their optimum potential. People from all backgrounds, religions and cultural traditions come together in service and celebration. For Further Details: 704.248.2647 / charlotte@us.artofliving.org www.artofliving.org

Charlotte Gita Study Group Beginners and advanced students of the Gita are welcome. The group meets the second and fourth Sunday of each month from 3 - 5 pm. This course is based on the Home Study Course of the Arsha Vidya Gurukulam, Saylorsburg, PA. Each session starts with a meditation followed by a recorded lecture in English, supplemented by discussion among the group. For further details: Rishi and Shikha Bhatnagar, rishi@solveron.com, 513.518.5300 Shridhar and Kruti Dave, skdave@hotmail.com, 704.844.9567 Naras and Beena Eechambadi, narasee@gmail.com www.freewebs.com/gitastudy

Association for India’s Development - Charlotte A volunteer movement committed to promoting sustainable, equitable and just-development. AID Charlotte supports grassroots organizations in India and initiates efforts in various interconnected spheres such as education, livelihoods, natural resources, health, women’s empowerment and social justice. For further details: Kiran Uppalapati 704.307.6450; Venkata Ramana Duddu 662.231.2350.

Charlotte Hindu Center Table Tennis The group meets every Monday and Wednesday from 6.30 - 10 pm. New players come after 7.30 pm for orientation. The TT action takes place at the Vihar Hall of Charlotte’s Hindu Center, 7400 City View Drive , Charlotte, NC 28134. All levels and types of play. Free coaching and lessons. For further details: s_jan@yahoo.com or visit www.ttclt.com.

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Regularly scheduled activities include a daily Aarti at 6:30 am and 7 pm. Darshan: Mon-Fri 6:30 am-12:30 pm and 4 - 8:30 pm, Sat/Sun 6:30 am-8:30 pm. Gujarati classes are held every Sunday from 3 - 4 pm and “Satsang Sabha” is held every Sunday at 4:30 p.m. The Swaminarayan Temple is located at 4100 Margaret Wallace Rd, Charlotte, NC, 28105. For Further Details: 704.573.0805 704.573.0820 (fax)

Charlotte Indian Christian Fellowship The group meets the third Saturday of every month at 6:30 PM for Bible Study, Prayer and Fellowship. Everyone is welcome to join the fellowship along with family and friends. For Further Details: Hema at 704.841.7060 / hadhopper@hotmail.com. Charlotte Indian Karaoke Group CIKG invites karaoke lovers to come and sing Hindi songs on karaoke. It does not matter whether you are a beginner or experienced. The most important thing is to get together and have fun. The event is held once a month, usually on Friday or Saturday. Entry and participation is free. For Further Details: Dinesh Patel at cikgrocks@yahoo.com

Bethel Christian Fellowship Bethel Christian Fellowship offers services in various Indian languages (i.e. Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, etc.) .Sunday School Time - 11:15 - 11:45 am; Sunday Worship Service time : 11:45 - 1:15 pm. Sunday Service Location: Fort Mill Church of God, Student Life Center Building, 216 Academy Street, Room 102. Fort Mill, SC 29715. Saturday Service Location: Life Builders Church - 730 Oak Dale Rd, Charlotte NC 28216. For further details: 803.792.7223; pastorofbcf@gmail.com (Pastor: Rajan Samuel).

Charlotte Kannada Koota The Charlotte Kannada Koota is an organization that promotes understanding of Karnataka culture and provides a medium for people of Karnataka (Kannadigas) to get together. The activities include social get-togethers, music, and drama. For Further Details: 704.526.9990 (Appan Patil), agm_patil@hotmail.com 704.281.8732 (Raj Kulgod), kraj7@yahoo.com

Carolina Sanskritk Maharashtra Mandal CSMM promotes Maharashtrian culture and language. Maharashtra mandal is committed to serve Carolina Marathi community with various cultural, social and traditional marathi programs and events. For Further Details: Abhay Khanore, terasahara2000@yahoo.com, 803.554.1234 Manish Khot, manish.khot@gmail.com, 215.380.8722 Sangeeta Korde, sangeet_k@yahoo.com, 704.421.4279

Charlotte Kriya Yoga Group Charlotte Kriya Yoga Group Promotes Kriya Yoga Meditation practices as taught by lineage of realized masters such as Mahaavatar Baba Ji, Lahri Mahasaya, Sri Yukteshwar Giri, Paramahamsa Yogananda, Hariharananda, and Prajanananada. A seeker who follows the path of Kriya Yoga with love and devotion and a desire for spiritual growth can attain Self-realization. The Center hosts two annual initiation programs and a weekly Sunday meditation for initiates. For Further Details: Agupta1@Carolina.rr.com / www.kriya.org

Carolinas Christian Assembly - Charlotte Everyone is cordially invited to join for Sunday worship, Bible class, Sunday school: Sundays from 9 am - 12 pm. English and various Indian languages are used in the sunday services.

Saathee.com

March 2012

BEST DEALS ON FARES TO INDIA • Air Tickets • Travel Insurance • Vacation Packages

Come Experience Our Excellent Service Business Hours: M-F: 9am-6pm Sat: 10am-2pm

1-866-FLY MAHA Email: travel@mahabazaar.com Tel: 240.454.8954 www.mahabazaartravels.com 101 Chestnut St. Suite 220 Gaithersburg MD 20877 Saathee.com

March 2012

EVFI is committed to the cause of eradicating illiteracy from tribal areas. Education is the key to self-esteem, self-sustenance, economic well being and happiness. Ekal Vidyalya (One School One Teacher in one village) plans to establish 100,000 schools in tribal areas by 2012. This will cover all the villages in tribal areas where there are no schools today. The Carolinas Region of the EVFUSA conducts fund raising and awareness programs in North and South Carolina. For Further Details: Ekal Charlotte Chapter: Neena Narumanchi neena.narumanchi@gmail.com Ekal Columbia: Janak Dalal / jaydalalcolumbia@gmail.com

Charlotte Table Tennis Club Charlotte Table Tennis Club is located at 345 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte, NC 28204 (Corner of East 7th St. & Hawthorne Lane near downtown Charlotte.). Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 6-10 pm, Saturday 2-6 pm and Sunday 1-5 pm. For Further Details: www.charlottetabletennis.org Charlotte Tamil Sangam Charlotte Tamil Sangam works to bring together the vibrant Tamil community in the Charlotte area and strives to promote the Tamil language, arts and culture. For Further Details: Lakshmanan Krishnan (lakshmanank@hotmail.com) or visit www.cltts.org

Gurdwara Sahib - Charlotte The Sikh Heritage Society strives to unite and enrich the lives of the Sikh & Punjabi communities of Charlotte and surrounding areas. “Gurdwara” address: 1760 Stoney Creek Lane, Charlotte, NC 28262. Regular Program: Every Sunday: 10 - 11am, Asa Di War by Bhai Satnam Singh Jee, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm, Keertan by Children, 12:00 pm – 1:15 pm, Keertan by Bhai Satnam Singh Jee, 1:15 pm - 1:30 pm, Ardaas, followed by Guru Ka Langar. For Further Details: Gurdwara: 704.509.2828 704.541.0350 (Sajjan Dhaliwal), sajjan@carolina.rr.com, 704.948.8091 (Inderjeet Rajpal), irajpal@aol.com

Charlotte Telangana Association Charlotte Telangana Assoc was formed to promote Telangana cultural activities within greater Charlotte area and also bring together all the Telangana people living in the area to discuss, plan, and take action around the development of Telangana focusing both on rural and urban Telangana areas. “CTA” will also actively engage in educating private, public and non-profit organizations about the great resources that Telangana has for business activities, political climate of Telangana reason. For Further Details: www.charlottetelangana.com

Hindu Center of Charlotte The Hindu Center is located at 7400 City View Drive, Charlotte, NC 28212. Temple Phone: 704.535.3440. The library is stocked with books, CDs, DVDs and other materials on varied genre such as religion, culture, history, philosophy, yoga and health. Library info: 704.554.0765. Children’s Religious Oriented Program (C.R.O.P.) is for children Kindergarten through 12th grade to educate them in culture and understand religious practices. A glimpse on understanding The Bhagvad Gita provides children with an opportunity to learn about the GITA with simplicity, ease and in an inclusive discussion format. Info on CROP 704.547.1676 (Chetna Patel) patel4260@bellsouth.net. The Senior Citizens Group meets on the 1st Sunday of every month at 4 pm and followed by Satyanarayan Katha at 5 pm. Future trips and activities are in the planning stages. Info on the group: 704.334.2462 (Gobind Bhojwani). The sloka class teaches children above the age of five different Hindu hymns, their meaning and significance. The class meets Sundays at 9:30 am. Info on the class: 704.814.9355 (Lakshmi Muthukrishnan). Info on the Social Welfare Committee: 704.372.1265 (Narain Amar) or 704.948.5609 (Dhinakaran Pillai). The Vedic Havan is held at the vedant hall on second Sunday of every month at 10:30 am to 12:00 pm noon followed by Prasadam. Info: 704.825.9223 (Swadesh Sawhney). The Pranayam classes are held on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Info: 704.649.5374 (Kajal Jain), 704.554.0765 (Manisha Naik), or 281.304.5597 (Sanjay Vyas) pranayamclt@aol.com. Yoga classes are held Sundays at 9 am. Info: 704.864.8212 pradip_bulsara@hotmail.com. Free Table Tennis Open Play & Coaching is available for Members and their families (especially children 10 years and over). The hours are from 6.30pm to 10:00pm every Wednesday in the Vihar Hall. No prior registration is necessary. There are five

Charlotte Vipassana Meditation Group Vipassana, which means to see things as they really are, is one of India’s most ancient techniques of meditation. It was taught in India more than 2500 years ago as a universal remedy for universal ills. The Charlotte Vipassana Meditation Group holds weekly group sits and monthly all day sits for established students (those who have taken at least one ten day course from S. N. Goenka or one of his assistant teachers). Ten-day courses are also available for all students. There is never a charge for a course. New center now open in Jesup, GA. To apply for a 10 day retreat visit www.patapa.dhamma.org For Further Details: 704.277.5013, rbddesai@gmail.com 704.563.5440, dspranger@gmail.com www.dhamma.org Classical Music Association of Charlotte (CMAC) CMAC sponsors many classical concerts during the year in Charlotte. Membership forms are available at concerts. Sun Apr 1 - Flute Concert by Shashank @ CPCC Sun May 6 - Vocal Concert by Ranjani Gayatri @ CPCC For Further Details: 704.541.3361 (Rama Rachakonda), 704.814.9355 (Lakshmi Muthukrishnan) lakshmi7778@yahoo.com cmacmusic@yahoo.com www.onlinecmac.com Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of India (EVFI) was established to help in the overall development of the remote tribal and rural villages in India. Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of USA along with Saathee.com

March 2012

Realtor®, Broker

BUYING A HOME IN CHARLOTTE?

Kokila.Kumar@allentate.com

YOUR TIMING COULDN'T BE BETTER!

KOKILA KUMAR

704-264-7280 www.kokilakumar.com

Artistic Eyebrows by Sejal Threading, Waxing and Henna

Sejal Patel 704.975.4331 or 704.237.4354

In Charlotte, there is always a supply of good homes available - with many quality choices and deals to be had!

To get a FREE MONTHLY MARKET REPORT for your neighborhood or any other, please email me and sign up for free latest Market Report.

MEMBER: Charlotte Regional REALTORS® Association, North Carolina Association of REALTORS® and the National Association of REALTORS®

Top performer in Dec. 2011

sejalpatel415@yahoo.com TWo LocaTionS

I'm looking at the best prices I've seen in 5 years AND interest rates are still at all time lows. There are some tax credits available too; for first home buyers and for “move-up" buyers as well.

open: Sat, Sun, Mon & Tues

open: Wed, Thurs & Fri

2811 W. Sugar creek Rd. charlotte, nc 28262

4935 Monroe Rd. charlotte, nc 28205

next to india Town Grocery

near Sharon amity

Time to get started finding you a terrific home in a great community? Call me at 704-264-7280 or visit my website: www.kokilakumar.com for any property search in any area When I list your home, my one and only goal is to sell it. Our marketing plan is designed to generate quality showings and, wherever possible, remove the barriers that might keep a buyer from buying. My listings will be seen on more than 1000 websites through our company marketing plan. CHOOSE YOUR REALTOR WISELY TO SAVE YOUR GREEN

open 7 days a week for lunch & dinner Lunch Buffet everyday Dinner a La Carte everyday

Let us cater your next function anywhere in NC or SC. Weddings • Corporate Parties Birthdays • anniversary any Special Occasion

901 South Kings Drive, Suite 115 (Kings Court) Charlotte, nC

704.370.2455 or 704.370.2824 Reservations available

Saathee.com

March 2012

Indian Visual Artists Association of Charlotte (IVAAC) IVAAC was founded by artists of Indian origin living in the Charlotte, NC area in their pursuit of a creative outlet, stemming from an urge to express the flow of their innate artistic moods and ideas. The vision is to promote the enigmatic and intriguing Indian culture into meaningful forms of expression that exposes the rich traditions and diversity of one of the most ancient civilizations on earth, in today’s fast blending global culture and to create an organization that provides planning and funding required to ensure and support a vibrant and culturally diverse Indian art community. For Further Details: 704.540.8799 (Amit Shah), 704.688.5387 (Kinshuk Agarwal) www.ivaac.org

good tables and can add more as necessary. Free coaching is also available from Srinivas Janardhan (SJ) and three other experienced certified coaches from Charlotte Table Tennis Club (CTTC). For further details visit www.TTCLT.com or contact SJ (s_jan@yahoo.com), Hemant Amin (hvamin@hotmail.com) or Chetan Thakker (chetanthakker@yahoo.com). Upcoming Events: Wed Mar 7: Holi Sun Mar 11: Dhuleti Thu Mar 23 through Sun Mar 31 - Chaitra Navratri Sat Mar 24 - Ugadhi Sun Mar 25 - Chetichand For Further Details: www.hcclt.org IAMC (Indian American Muslim Council) Charlotte Chapter IAMC formerly known as IMC-USA (Indian Muslim Council – USA) is an Independent not for profit, tax exempt organization committed to promoting peace, pluralism and social justice for all through advocacy. The organization is also committed to promote and protect human rights and human dignity in India as they are the foundation of freedom, justice and peace. IAMC-Charlotte, seeks to reach out to Indian Muslims living in and around Charlotte to join our efforts as we are dedicated to promote Peace, Human Rights and Social Justice for all in India, to strive for Inter-Faith, InterCommunity understanding in the United States with particular focus on Indian Diaspora and to build alliances and relationships with individuals and groups who share our basic values. The IAMC-Charlotte chapter is supported by donations from its members. For Further Details: Ashfaq Mehdi 704.904.5778 Afzal Syed 704.770.1103 iamc-charlotte@yahoogroups.com

Jain Center of Greater Charlotte (JCGC) The JCGC serves the spiritual, cultural, social, and community needs of Jain families in and around metropolitan Charlotte area. JCGC is dedicated to the practice, understanding, promotion, and preservation of the Jain faith. The members of JCGC meet regularly for worship, ceremonies, and festivals throughout the year. JCGC constructed and opened the doors to its Jain Temple in September 2011 in North Charlotte. The Jain Center is located at 7631 Mallard Creek Rd., Charlotte, NC 28262 and will coordinate and carry out numerous religious activities year-round. These activities included celebrating major religious festivals such as Mahavir Jayanti, Paryushan, and Diwali, and routine programs like Swadhyay, Poojas and children’s Pathshaala. Upcoming Events: Wed, March 7, 2012 (Chaudas): 11 am – Dev Vandan, 6:30pm Aarti, 7 pm - Pakkhi Pratikraman Sun, March 11, 2012: 10:30am - Pathshaala Wed, March 21, 2012 (Chaudas): 6:30pm - Aarti, 7 pm - Pakkhi Pratikraman Fri, March 23, 2012 (Chaitra Sud Ekum): 10:30am - Snatra Pooja Sunday, March 25, 2012: 4 pm - Regular monthly meeting. Swadhyay, Pathshaala, Aarti and Mangal Divo All Other Weekdays:9:30am - Mon-Friday - Prakshal and Pooja, 7:30pm - Chaityavandan, Aarti and Mangal Divo Weekends: 10:30am - Prakshal and Pooja,7:30pm – Chaityavandan, Aarti and Mangal Divo For Further Details: JCGC President – Suresh Shah: 704.717.8481 or info@jaincenter.us. www.jaincenter.us

India Association of Charlotte (Festival of India) The organization’s goal is to foster better understanding of the rich diversity of Indian culture, by the larger community in and around Charlotte. A key activity is the annual Festival of India, which will take place on September 22-23, 2012 in Uptown Charlotte. For Further Details: Toni Sawhney 704-604-2133 Lal Vishin 704-545-3727 www.indiafestival.net

Indian Performing Arts Association of Charlotte (IPAAC) IPAAC (Indian Performing Arts Association of Charlotte) promotes classical Hindustani music by inviting well-known artists from India. Upcoming Events: Sat, Mar 31, 2012 - Vocal Recital by Jayteerth Mevundi Sat, May 5, 2012 - Vocal Recital by Manjusha Kulkarni Patil For Further Details: Sarla Kumar 704.846.4423 Chaula Jain 704.364.0984 contact@ipaac.org www.ipaac.org Saathee.com

March 2012

Shyama Electronics 1607 Duckhorn St. • Concord, nC, 28027 Call Viren 704.756.9265 • Toll Free: 866.343.2906 Fax: 678.833.5958

DIGITAL VIDEO SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM WITH 4 / 8 / 12 / 16 / 32 PORTS • COMPLETE DVR SYSTEM: WATCH FROM ANYWHERE / GREAT PERFORMANCE / EASY TO USE / PLAY BACK UP TO 160 DAYS EVEN ONLINE INTEGRATED REGISTER INTERFACE UP TO 22 INCH LCD MONITOR

• CALL FOR ESTIMATE

Financing Available. Call for Details.

• BEST PRICES IN THE CHARLOTTE AREA • WILL BEAT ANY ESTIMATE BY 5%

DISH Network

Your home for South Asian Entertainment

All of the packages feature the latest and classic movies, LIVE news, music, serials, children’s programs and much more direct from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal. • No equipment to buy • Free Standard Professional Installation in up to 6 rooms. • Free DVR Upgrade ($6.00/mo. DVR Service fee applies) • Free Activation • Over 120 top channels including Disney for $29.99/mo. for 12 months (reg. price $44.99/mo.) Offer requires a 24-month Agreement.

$75 VISA Gift card with activation

Shyama Electronics Saathee.com

Call Viren: 704.756.9265 1607 Duckhorn St. • Concord, NC, 28027 March 2012

still encouraging people to maintain a normal family and working life. In the Charlotte area, group meditation is held at the Unity of Charlotte on Sundays and Wednesdays. For Further Details: Arun and Promila Sehra 704.844.0147 Srikanth Katakam 704.496.4411 naturalpath.nc@gmail.com www.srcm.org

phone line Monday- Friday from 9:00 am – 9:00 pm. For help or information regarding domestic violence call an advocate. Services offered are confidential and free of charge: • Information in a culture- and context-sensitive manner • Non-judgmental help and support to women who are experiencing oppressive/crisis situations • Emotional support • Referrals to professional and community services regarding legal issues, health care, short-term child care, psychological counseling, and temporary shelter and housing • KIRAN’s services are completely confidential. Translators and crisis counselors do not disclose any information provided by our clients. For Further Details: Crisis Hotline: 1877- NC-KIRAN or 1-877-625-4726 Kiran@Kiraninc.org www.kiraninc.org

Sangamithra Foundation Sangamithra Foundation was formed by a group of people who strive to make a difference in society and has taken the path of identifying the needs of underprivileged communities in India and provide support to meet those needs. The first project of providing a water filtering system to a school in India was successfully completed within just months of the founding of the organization. The foundation is reaching out on a global scale and working collectively towards realizing its vision. For Futher Details: www.sangamithra.org www.facebook.com/SangamithraFoundation; email: info@sangamithra.org; twitter: @sangamithraUSA.

Net IP Charlotte NetIP Charlotte is the only official Carolinas chapter of North America’s Largest Network of Indian Professionals. NetIP Charlotte provides a forum for on-going Career Developmental and Professional Networking activities. It arranges various events and maintains deeper ties with Businesses & the community. It provides various effective ways for Carolinas’ Indian Professionals to connect with other successful professionals. For Further Details: www.netIPnc.org

Shree Swaminarayan Satsang Mandal Vadtal On the 1st Saturday of every month, Shree Swaminarayan Satsang Mandal Vadtal has kirtans and bhajans at the Hindu Center of Charlotte at 5 pm. After the bhajans, there is Aarti and Mahaprasad. In addition, on the 3rd Sunday of every month, an additional Satsang Sabha is held at sponsor’s house at 3 - 5 pm. For Further Details: 704.392.4488 - Ramesh Dhanani admin@issvcharlotte.org

Pratham - Charlotte Area Pratham is India’s largest non-profit organization with grass roots programs in the area of primary education. Pratham has made an impact on the learning levels of several million children through its Read India campaign which reached 31 million children across India. Pratham has developed an accelerated learning technique which helps children to read & write in two months. With nearly half the children in India who attend schools are not learning to read and write at the required level, Pratham is trying to fill an important gap in the area of primary education. For Further Details: Anju Desai (ajdesai66@gmail.com or 980-622-0125) and Shubhra Chakraborty (shubhra.chakraborty1@gmail.com) or 704-9424798). www.prathamusa.org.

Shri Rang Avadhut Parivar (Parspar Devo Bhav) Soul devotees of Guru Dattatraya Rang Avadhut and Shri Prem Avadhut meet every Thursday evening in Charlotte, NC from 7 - 8 pm. for recital of Datta-Bavani, singing devotional Dattatraya Bhajans and reading Guru-Lilamrut. Detailed information about Charlotte meetings, literature, videos, Nareshwar Ashram and Shri Avadhut’s life is available. For Further Details: Bharat Shah - 704.724.6247 Nagesh Patel - 704.399.7805

Probasi of Charlotte Probasi is the Bengali community based in Charlotte and surrounding areas. The community’s goal is to organize cultural and educational program related to Bengal in the Greater Charlotte area, to increase Bengali cultural awareness, and to provide community service in the area. For Further Details: www.probasi.org

SouthPark Cricket Club South Park Cricket Club is based in Charlotte, North Carolina and it has been an active member of the Mid Atlantic Cricket Conference since 2002. The club’s home ground is located at the Reedy Creek Park, 2900 Rocky River Road, Charlotte, NC. For Further Details: 847.722.9865 (Baseet Ahmed), baseer_11@yahoo.com www.southparkcc.org

Sahaj Marg Meditation- Charlotte Area Sahaj Marg, which means Simple or Natural path, is a Raj Yoga system of spiritual training based on the heart centered meditation. The unique features of this meditation include transmission of divine energy into the heart of the practitioner and cleaning of deep impressions, thereby regulating the mind. Regular practice of this system of meditation integrates the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of human being, while Saathee.com

Srishti of Charlotte Srishti based in Charlotte, North Carolina, over the past 6+ years has emerged to fulfill the North Carolina community’s need for togetherness and the desire to showcase Bengali culture, heritage, literature, theatre, music and popular arts. Literally, the word Srishti means an act of creation. Though 96

March 2012

indiaTown

Flavors of

India town is more than a traditional Grocery store.

Visit us to experience the difference.

India

320 South Tryon St., Suite 116 (Latta Arcade) Charlotte, NC 28202

Lunch Take Outs (Veg & Non-Veg)

11 am - 2 pm (Mon - Fri), Closed Sat & Sun.

Now Available

InDIAn BEERS

Call us for Catering 704.332.2326 or 704.965.1805

Store Hours Mon: 4 pm - 9 pm Tues - Fri: Noon - 9 pm Sat & Sun: 11 am - 9 pm

2809 West Sugar Creek Rd. Charlotte, NC 28262

Phone: 704.494.0422

Diamond Cab Company 704.333.3030 or 704.377.0777

24 Hours a Day 7 Day a Week

We are proud to be known as the friendliest and most reliable taxi transportation service in the area and we maintain that reputation by consistently providing courteous and professional service to all of our clients. CABS | VANS | LuxuRy CARS SHuTTLES | LIMO SERVICE

Online reservations

We Sp e Hindi ak

704.333.3030 www.CharlotteDiamondCab.com

fax: 704.344.0005 | 922 Hawthorne Lane | Charlotte, NC 28204 Saathee.com

March 2012

established and coordinated by a group of Bengali families, Srishti welcomes and brings together people of varied cultures, ethnicity, languages, background and nationalities who are interested in East Indian traditions. Members include not only Bengalis but also Indians from other parts of the country and a few foreign nationals too. For Further Details: Samiksha Bose: 704-321-1964 Santanu Sarkar : 704-541-3451 Rituparna Mukherjee: 704-844-9505

India Association of the Triad The objective of the Association is to promote social, cultural and educational interests of its members, develop understanding between members of the Indian community and other residents of the Triad, and make the latter aware of issues of concern to the Indian community. Hindi Language classes are being taught by Mrs. Punjabi. For Further Details: Krishna Balu - 336.292.9462 www.iatnc.org

United Cricket Club Forming a team this March of experienced as well as beginners that love cricket. Team will play in the Atlantic League. Practice is every Sunday at Reedy Creek Park (11 to 4pm). Sunday and Monday evenings for ages 15 and up. Join the fun. For Further Details: 704.905.9127(Captain-Syed) 704.493.7629(Vice Captain-Mohsan)

Indo-US Cultural Association of Winston-Salem The Indo-US Cultural Association’s primary mission is to increase awareness of the cultural heritage of India which is tremendously rich in its diversity and history. The Association seeks to reach out to the thriving Indian-American community within the Piedmont and Triad areas to share the vibrant Indian culture and promote cross-cultural understanding. For Further Details: Manjunath C Shamanna, 336.413.5090 http://indouswinston.org/contact.aspx

Greensboro

Life Bliss Foundation The NC Chapter offers workshops, books, CD’s, and DVD’s on spirituality and enlightenment from living enlightened master Paramahamsa Nithyananda. Many videos are available on YouTube. Satsang in Greensboro is held the first Wednesday of each month. The meeting includes meditation, video discourse, and Q&A. Satsang Location: First Wednesday of the month, 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm, Integrative Therapies, 7-E Oak Branch Drive, Greensboro NC 27407. Meditation workshops are taught on a regular basis. For Further Details: 336.644.1111 www.lifebliss.org

Art of Living (Greensboro) The Art of Living Foundation offers programs to uncover the strength, peace, and joy that lie at the core of every human being. Part I courses are offered regularly in Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Charlotte and now Greensboro. The Part I course covers breathing techniques to eliminate stress & tension; skills for improving relationships at home & at work; practical wisdom to get the most out of life; insight into the laws that govern the mind & emotions; low-impact yoga and the masterpiece of the Art of Living Course is a powerful breathing-based technique called Sudarshan Kriya, or the healing breath. For Further Details: Nirupama Shankar @ shankar.nirupama@gmail.com Puja Verma @ puja_usa@yahoo.com http://us.artofliving.org/greensboro

Life Mission, USA This ashram has been established to provide helpful benefits for all - physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. All these benefits can be achieved through the natural remedies of yoga therapy, Ayurveda, naturopathy and diet. 8136 NC Highway 119 South Mebane, NC 27302. Upcoming Programs: April 6 - 8, 2012: Karma Gyan Bhakti Yoga Shibir May 26 - 28, 2012: Health Retreat June 2, 2012: Gayatri Yagna June 30 - July 4: Guru Purnima Patotsav For Further Details: 336.421.0690 lifemissionusa@gmail.com www.lifemissionusa.com

Greensboro Cricket Club (GCC) Good news for cricket lovers! There are several teams that play cricket in Greensboro. The goals of GCC are fun, fitness, and friendship. For info on play and location contact below players. For Further Details: 336.501.3566 (9:00 am - 9:00 pm, S&S) Dev, Greensboro Warriors, happy4mehta@yahoo.com; Venky, Triad Tigers, venkyhot@hotmail.com. Gujarati Cultural Association of Piedmont (GCAP) The Gujarati Cultural Association of Piedmont serves the Asian Indian community through sponsored events, cultural, educational and social programs. GCAP, 127 Landmark Drive, Greensboro, NC 27410 For Further Details: Narendra Patel: 336.601.1978 (Pres.) Dipak Patel: 919.478.4759 (Vice Pres.) www.gcap.us Saathee.com

Sri Sathya Sai Baba Center of Greensboro, NC The Center regularly conducting Sai Bhajans, Study Circle, various service activities and SSE class (for students) in Greensboro, NC all Sundays from 9:45 am - 12:15 pm For Further Details: Swami Rajendran 908-875-6964 Dr. Varatharajah 336-851-9150

March 2012

Our Services Comprehensive Exams Gentle, Thorough hygiene Visits Periodontal Therapy Restorative and Cosmetic Treatment Dental Implant Restorations Root Canal Therapy Tooth Extractions

Excellent Food & Friendly Service Lunch Buffet: Mon - Sat Dinner A La Carte: Mon - Sat (Closed Sun)

Free

Consultations

Call for Take-Out or Catering

704-523-0037 CharlotteIndianRestaurant.com 540-B Brandywine Rd. Charlotte, NC 28209

Corner of Woodlawn & Park Rd. Behind Park Rd Shopping Center

Park road WoodlaWn

PineVille

SOUTH BLVD

PARK ROAD SHOPPING CENTER Back Court

uPtoWn

I-77

MOST LOCAL INSURANCES ACCEPTED

704-542-9923 16615 Riverstone Way, Suite 200 Charlotte, NC 28277

SITuL

Our office is located in South Charlotte off Highway 521, at the intersection of Ardrey Kell Rd. & Marvin Rd., in the new Cedar Walk development.

Catering For Any Occasion

Saathee.com

March 2012

the students will come from various countries around the world, and all students speak fluent English. They are of high school age (15-18) and will attend local high school in their respective communities. Each student will live as member of their American host family, sharing household duties and responsibilities. AFICE is a non-profit educational organization dedicated to bringing cultural gaps by allowing foreign students the opportunity to live as part of an American community. For Further Details: lathapamarthi@earthlink.net www.afice.org

Temple of the Holy Name Prabhupada Village is a rural Hare Krishna community situated in the beautiful foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Every Sunday at 3 p.m there is chanting, dancing, feasting and philosophy. The Temple is located at 1283 Prabhupada Rd, Sandy Ridge, NC 27046 For Further Details: 336.593.9888 www.prabhupadavillage.com Triad Hindu Temple The Triad Hindu Temple is located at 2424 Huffine Mill Rd., Greensboro. Its mission is to serve the Hindu Community and promote Hindu Culture through religious, social and educational activities. Regularly scheduled events include Puja, bhajans, children’s programs, celebration of holidays and community service. For Further Details: www.triadhindutemple.org

Association for India’s Development (AID)- Duke University Chapter: AID’s mission is effect social change in India, by supporting projects with grassroots non-governmental organization in India in the areas of literacy, health care, rural credit, women’s empowerment etc. For Further Details: http://www.duke.edu/web/aid/

Triad Nepalese Community Center (TNCC) TNCC is an association of Nepalese and friends living in the Piedmont Triad area of North Carolina. The Piedmont Triad region encompasses the cities of Greensboro, High Point and Winston-Salem, and the surrounding areas. TNCC was established with a view to: Bring together Nepalese residents of this region and their friends to work cohesively toward preserving and promoting Nepalese ethnicity, culture and arts; Promote friendship, cooperation and mutual respect among the Nepalese people and the diverse Triad community; Provide direct and supportive services to the community; Empower community members to achieve skills and confidence in order to contribute to the well being of the Triad community; Collaborate closely with local organizations and agencies to fulfill our mission to address any challenges of the community. For further details: info@nctncc.org www.nctncc.org/portal/home.html

Balagokulam Gokulam is where Lord Krishna’s magical childhood days were spent. It was here that his divine powers came to light. Every child has that spark of divinity within. Balagokulam is a forum for children (4-15 years age) to discover and manifest that divinity. It will enable Hindu children in the US to appreciate their cultural roots and learn values. This is done through games, yoga, stories, songs, shlokas, arts/crafts, and Seva (selfless service) in the community. Balagokulam sessions are free for all and are held on Saturdays. For Further Details: balagokulam.rtp@gmail.com hss.charlotte@hssus.org (Charlotte region) www.balagokulam.org

Raleigh AANC - Assamese Association of North Carolina AANC is a Socio Cultural organization with the objective of promoting and providing understanding of Assamese Culture and Language. AANC celebrates Assamese festivals and organizes cultural activities like Bihu Dance, music, songs and social get-togethers with essential touch of Assamese culture. Everyone from Assam as well as anyone with any connection to or interest in Assam or Assamese culture is most welcomed. For Further Details: 919.200.4020 assameseassociation.nc@gmail.com Academic Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (AFICE) Interested in exploring the diverse cultures of the world? Become a host family for a high school exchange student! All Saathee.com

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir BAPS Shree Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir invites everyone to the regularly scheduled events: Ravi sabha - every Sunday at 4 - 6 pm followed by Aarti and Maha Prasad. Mahapuja – every Purnima at 7 pm. Many classes are conducted. Fresh Indian snacks and sweets available at Shayona. 1020 Aviation Parkway, Morrisville, NC 27560. For Further Details: 919.469.6605 www.swaminarayan.org Bengali Association of North Carolina (BANC) BANC seeks to promote Bengali culture, language, music, arts and social activities by offering varieties of programs for members of INDO-American community within North Carolina and adjacent states. The association is organized exclusively for charitable, cultural, social and educational purposes. For Further Details: 919.461.2386 (Ratan Ray), ratanray@hotmail.com 919.510.7943 (Swaty Sen), swaty_sen@yahoo.com banc_members@googlegroups.com www.banc-online.org

100

March 2012

DMV Productions Proudly Presents

W hi te H orse W eddi ng s

Specializing in Hindi Remixes, Bhangra, Garba-Rass, Hip-Hop, R & B, House, Dance, Top 40’s & 80’s Sangeet/Garba - Barat - Wedding Reception packages available Largest Music Library in the Southeast! Complete Sound & Lighting System Birthday, Company Event, Baby Shower, Graduation, etc.

704-213-7076 WHItE HORSE available for weddings in the Carolinas. Also booking now for 2012 & 2013

Lowest Price Guaranteed

Book your ticket with Friends Travel and get paid commission!

FRIENdS Travel CUSTOMER SATISFACTON IS OUR PROFIT

THE BEST TRAVEl SERVICE IN THE CAROlINAS For Friendly & Reliable Service Call Your Travel Agent Friend

Manish Hingoo Phone: 919.467.5084 Fax: 919.467.5823 E-Mail: FriendsTravelNC@yahoo.com Emergency Service: 919.455.5213

We speak Gujarati, Hindi, Marathi & English.

1200 S.E. Maynard Rd. Suite 204 Cary, NC 27511 Saathee.com

101

Consolidated Fares to India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Asia, Africa, Europe & the Middle East on All Major Airlines We provide Visa, Passport, Cruise & Tour Package Services. We can do tour packages & Railway Bookings in India March 2012

Bharatiya Senior Citizens of North Carolina (BSCNC) BSCNC is a nonprofit organization for senior citizens of Indian origin that are age of 60 years and above. The BSCNC members meet on the second Saturday of each month at Cary Senior Center in Bond Park in Cary NC from 10am to 3pm. The next meeting will be on Satuday March 10, at which a doctor of Urology will give a speech on urinary problems confronting both men and women. The group will also celebrate Holi. Members who have renewed their membership for 2012 and have their ID with them will be allowed except, new members will have to pay guest charge. Old members are requested to bring their old ID with them at the time of their renewal; otherwise they have to pay $1 for new ID plastic cover. All members are requested to wear their ID in all meetings. For Further Details: Mulchand Patel (President) 252.446.7891, Raojibhai Patel 252.336.4391 (Vice President & Treasurer), Jayantibhai Lad (Secretary) 919.463.5180. Carolina Rajasthani Association Visit the website for upcoming events. www.carolinarajasthanis.org Sushma Maheshwari - 919-880-8529, sushmaofnc@yahoo.com Shruti Singhi - 919-412-4819, mshruti@yahoo.com Chinmaya Mission Chinmaya Mission is a worldwide non-profit organization promoting spiritual growth, started by Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda. The Chinmaya Mission Raleigh Durham (CMRDU) chapter conducts Balavihar classes from 3 year old to youth on Sunday from 10 am to 11:30 am at Reedy Creek Middle School, Cary. The classes are tailored to each age group by special curriculum created by experienced Swamijis and Acharyas exclusively for CM Balavihar. Trained teachers conduct the classes. Curriculum includes learning to chant the Bhagavad-Gita verses, shlokas, singing devotional bhajans, stories from scriptures, family pujas, meditation, and fun activities like overnight lock-ins, picnics, and competitions. Introduction to Hindi and Sanskrit is also included. This year’s theme being Rama - My Brother, the children will learn to incorporate helpful virtues throughout their life. All festivals are celebrated with families and Prasad. Parents wishing to enroll their children in Balavihar can register through the website. A regular adult study group is conducted for adults on Sunday mornings at Reedy Creek Middle School, as well as other locations in the Triangle. For Further Details: Venkat Mandavilli at 919.387.8434 Srinivas Andhavarapu at 919.439.4444 http://www.chinmaya-rdu.org Dada Bhagwan Satsang Don’t miss on the lifetime event of “Gnan Vidhi” which opens up the path to “Moksha” - everyone is encouraged to procure details of the “Gnan Vidhi” at their nearest location. Meanwhile, download some spiritual books and enrich the spiritual foundation. Subscriptions for monthly spiritual magazine “Dadavani” are also available. When in India, don’t miss opportunity to visit Tri Mandir at Adalaj near Ahmedabad. Saathee.com

Visit www.dadabhagwan.org and watch Satsang on Web TV. For children - visit www.kids.dadabhagwan.org Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation RTP Chapter Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of India (EVFI) was established to help in the overall development of the remote tribal and rural villages in India. Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of USA along with EVFI is committed to the cause of eradicating illiteracy from tribal areas. Education is the key to self-esteem, self-sustenance, economic well being and happiness. Ekal Vidyalya (One School One Teacher in one village) plans to establish 100,000 schools in tribal areas by 2012. This will cover all the villages in tribal areas where there are no schools today. The Raleigh Chapter EVFUSA conducts fund raising and awareness programs in the Triangle area. For further details: Ekal/RTP: raginiusa@yahoo.com Geet Bazaar Radio Program Every Sunday morning from 10 am - 12 noon on WKNC 88.1 FM, join hosts Afroz Taj and John Caldwell, for a wide variety of music from India, Pakistan, and other countries and languages of South Asia. Geet Bazaar will also publicize community events free of charge. For Further Details: 919.851.1119 (Dr. Afroj Taj) taj@unity.ncsu.edu GEM - Raleigh Church of God Attend worship services, prayer meetings or Sunday School. For Further Details: 919.395.6208 (Pastor Thankachan M.) globalem@gmail.com Heritage India Association of North Carolina (HIANC) Heritage India Association of NC aims at providing Indian cultural experience through performing arts, cultural arts, fine arts & crafts of India. Its mission is “to preserve and promote Indian heritage and culture.” During the year, Heritage India Association of North Carolina presents several events and also coordinates Indian dances for the main stage performances for the Raleigh International Festival. For Further Details: yashcgarg@gmail.com Hindi Vikas Mandal of NC Hindi Vikas Mandal (HVM), based in the RTP area, promotes study and appreciation of Hindi language and strives to foster Indian culture and traditions through Hindi. HVM has a special focus on the youths for the preservation of Indian Culture and heritage. For Further Details: Saroj Sharma 919.851.0225 V.P. Tiwari 919.423.0365 Hindu Society of North Carolina - Morrisville, NC The Hindu Society of North Carolina, located at 309 Aviation Parkway, Morrisville, N.C. serves the Indian community in the Triangle area and its vicinity. Temple timings are: Mon. - Fri. 8 - 11 am and 5 - 9 pm, Sat. - Sun. 8 am - 7 pm. Daily Aarti and 102

March 2012

Vyas Travels

DEAL WITH SOMEONE YOU TRUST!!! r Fo ep RS R s U ina O rol S T Ca ING l ia K fic Of OX & C

• Tours, Cruises & More • Rates from India Available • Great Service and Rates • ARC & IATAn approved agency • Tours to Europe, India, Asia, & united States.

3322 Daniel Place Dr., Charlotte NC 28213 e-mail: vyastrav@gmail.com 704.569.8220 or 704.724.5981 Ahmedabad office: Vyas Travels Devashish, near Klassic Gold Hotel navrangpura, Ahmadabad Phone: 26561422, 26444422

Boy or Girl? (All the way from A to Z) GENDER PLANNING BEFORE PREGNANCY: We are the first to discover & prove this new concept. Whereas gender is ‘determined’ by sperm, it is ‘influenced’ by hormones in the uterus at the time of conception. In one cycle, the uterus is ready for boy conception and in other, for girl. By testing urine for two consecutive cycles, we guide you in which cycle to conceive so as to get the baby of your dream naturally. Four out of five couples are getting it. Please read every word under “PreGender Test” at our website. Have your physician call us to discuss it because they will have to know it anyway. Worldwide patents are pending. GENDER DETECTION AFTER PREGNANCY: We can find the gender of the baby as soon as you can detect pregnancy. This is the earliest gender test in the world. All tests are done on urine samples, sent by mail. No need to travel. Call or email to get the sample collection & shipping method.

Website: www.urobiologics.com | Email: urogender@urobiologics.com Phone: 1.877.HE.OR.SHE (436.7743) or 313.574.7500 in the U.S.

FREE HOT BREAkFAST • FREE WIRElESS INTERNET SEASONAl HEATED POOl • NEWlY RENOVATED

UNIVERSITY PLACE 8525 N. Tryon St. Charlotte, NC

Minutes from Oasis Temple & Hindu Center, UNCC & I-85 / I-77

704.549.4544 Ask for Rashmi or Sam Weddings • Graduations • Family Reunions & Other Events Saathee.com

103

March 2012

Puja is also conducted by the Priest. Other regular religious and cultural programs: Monthly Vedic Havan, Tuesday Hauman Chalisa recitation, Sri Ramakrishna Study Group, Sri Sai Baba Group, Gita Study Group, Devi Puja, Vaishnav Bhajan Group, Akhand Ramayana Recitation, Weekend Language and Spiritual Knowledge Classes, and Sloka classes for Children. Yoga classes are also offered twice a week (Sunday at 8:00 a.m.and Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.) at the Cultural Hall. Priest services are available at your home and/or at the Temple at a nominal charge. For Further Details: Saroj Sharma at 919.654.5224 or 919.851.1225 Arvind Shah 919.434.8021 hsnc@hsncweb.org www.hsncweb.org Hindu Students Council (HSC) - NC State University HSC-NCSU is a chapter of the national organization Hindu Students Council (HSC). HSC-NCSU is a cultural and religious student organization. It aims to provide opportunities to learn about Hindu philosophy, spirituality and cultural heritage through various activities, events and projects and is dedicated to provide “seva” (service) to the community. For Further Details: 919.676.0298 (Mrinmoyee Sanyal) msanyal@ncsu.edu www.hsc-ncsu.org Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) The HSS conducts weekly activities to develop character and leadership skills in participants, emphasizing values such as self-discipline, self-confidence and a spirit of selfless service (seva) for humanity while maintaining Hindu cultural identity in harmony with the larger society. HSS is inspired by the idea that the whole world is one family. HSS started in 1989 in the United States and currently has over 100 chapters (shakhas) across the country. The Research Triangle Park chapter meets every Saturday. Activities are tailored to include yoga, games, songs, lectures and discussions on Hindu dharma and culture. For Further Details: hss.rtp@hssus.org - Triangle area hss.charlotte@hssus.org - Charlotte region. Hum Sub Hum Sub is dedicated to sharing the social and cultural traditions of India with the residents of the Research Triangle Park and North Carolina. For Further Details: 919.367.0461 (Sonali Luniya) 919.851.5959 (Poonam Gupta) contactus@humsub.net www.humsub.net Indian American Forum for Political Education (IAFPE) IAFPE, known as the FORUM, is the oldest and largest Indian American organization for political education in the country. This is a non-profit organization with numerous chapters throughout the United States. The North Carolina Chapter is in Raleigh and has just established a new committee for a 2year term. IAFPE is excited and motivated to educate the Saathee.com

community on political issues and help the community with various services. Support is needed from the community and members to help us grow and provide relevant services and informative events. For Further Details: Nilesh - 919.656.4361 www.forum-nc.org Indian Classical Music & Dance Society (ICMDS) ICMDS is dedicated to the task of promoting Indian classical music and dance in the Triangle area. ICMDS invites the top artists from all over the world to perform in the Triangle area. Sat Mar 10 @ 11:00 a.m. —- local talent show. Venue: Durham Arts Council, Durham, NC. Sun Apr 1 @ 2:00 p.m. —- Soothing flute concert by Shantala Subramanyam. Accompanied by Avaneeswaram Vinu on Violin and Melakkaveri Balaji on Mridangam. Venue: TBD. For Further Details: www.icmds.org Indo-American Friendship Foundation Did you know that about 90 percent of rural orphans are female and most of them are abandoned at birth due to their gender? Not one of them gets the opportunity to become a doctor, engineer, or even receive basic education. Because they cannot live in the orphanage when they turn 18, many of them fall victim to different types of exploitation, including sex trade. IAFF has created an orphanage education fund to help qualified orphans to rise as high as they can climb in the educational/professional ladder. For Further Details: 919.362.7653 (Dr. Subhas C. Mohapatra) www.iaff1.org Indus Foundation Indus Foundation was founded in NC by a group of professionals with the sole purpose of giving back to the community and the country that has helped members achieve success. Every dollar is wisely spent back into the community without any overheads. Current major projects: Indian Cancer Society rehabilitation Center in Mumbai, Mental Healthcare Center for socially rejected Women in Indore, and three Educational Centers in Gurgaon. Adopt an on-going project or launch a new project under specific guidelines. Make a commitment today to build a better tomorrow. For Further Details: 919.461.0001 (Dr. Vinnie Goel, Chairman) www.indusfoundation.info International Community Church CC is a worship center for people from India and neighboring countries. The pastor is Joseph B. Jesudason and the church office is located at 1215 Franklin Jones Road, Suite #204, Raleigh, NC 27606. For Further Details: 919.233.2900 www.internationalcommunitychurch.org International Hindi Association International Hindi Association (IHA) promotes Hindi language and literature and has chapters all over the United 104

March 2012

Knight Theater 430 South Tryon Street Charlo!e NC 28202

The 18th annual

Saturday, September 22, 2012

Noon - 7 pm Noon - 6 pm

Sunday, September 23, 2012

t n e v E e v i s u l c x E n A

sored Spon

of tion a i c o ss by â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;A

r ian O d n I of ians c i s y h

Charlo!e Idol

ig in â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

l p a h s G ho 1 Se

ya rt on 2 e r h S once

Beautiful Dances

Creative Exhibits

C n i e Liv

Exotic Henna Designs

Party Atmosphere

Mouth Watering Vibrant Ethnic Foods Art

For participation or for vendor opportunities www.indiafestival.net presented by

The India Association of Charlotte

States. The Raleigh Chapter periodically organizes Kavi Sammelans with local and indigenous talents. Open to those interested in listening to poetry or in reciting poetry. For Further Details: 919.656.5224 (Saroj Sharma) 919.678.9056 (Sudha Om Dhingra) www.hindi.org International Swaminarayan Satsang Organization (ISSO) Primary objective of ISSO is “To advance the Sanatan Dharma in accordance with the principles and teachings of Shree Swaminarayan Sampradaya, founded and ordained by Lord Shree Swaminarayan (Shree Sahajanand Swami),” enabling His devotees from both the Nar Narayan Dev Gadi (Ahmedabad) and Laxmi Narayan Dev Gadi (Vadtal) to practice their religious duties in harmony. The Raleigh-Durham chapter organizes a “Satsang Sabha” every two weeks, typically on Friday or Saturday evenings, which includes Kirtan bhakti, Katha, Aarti and Mahaprasad. For Further Details: 919.363.2356 (Niraj Joshi) niraj_joshi@yahoo.com www.swaminarayan.info

ensures that the true practice of Dharm and Yoga flourishes here, offering the North Carolina community and visitors an ongoing program of free Yoga Classes. The classes are offered each Wednesday from 6 - 8 pm, and each Saturday from 11 am - 1 pm. For Further Details: 336.421.0690 lifemisionusa@gmail.com www.lifemissionusa.org Nuv Yug Nuv Yug is a cultural organization with a mission to promote awareness of Indian cultural arts and heritage. Striving to create synergy among various cultural groups from the South Asian region. For Further Details: www.nuvyug.net Pakistani American Association The Pakistani-American Association (NCPAA) is a nonpolitical, non-sectarian, cultural and social organization that promotes Pakistani culture to all the communities living in the Triangle Area of North Carolina. Several events are presented during the year. A family dinner is held on the second Friday of every month. For Further Details: payamber@ncpaa.org http://ncpaa.org

Kiran KIRAN is a multi-cultural, non-religious, community based, South Asian organization. Promoting the self-reliance and empowerment of South Asian women who are in crisis through outreach, peer support, and referrals in a confidential manner. The group spreads awareness of South Asian women’s issues in the community and we cooperate and collaborate with organizations in the USA and elsewhere with similar objectives. Countries in South Asia include Bangladesh, Bhutan, Burma, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Though there are differences in language, customs, and religions across these countries, these regions share many basic cultural and historical similarities. KIRAN operates a crisis phone line Monday- Friday from 9:00 am – 9:00 pm. For help or information regarding domestic violence call an advocate. Services offered are confidential and free of charge: • Information in a culture- and context-sensitive manner • Non-judgmental help and support to women who are experiencing oppressive/crisis situations • Emotional support • Referrals to professional and community services regarding legal issues, health care, short-term child care, psychological counseling, and temporary shelter and housing • KIRAN’s services are completely confidential. Translators and crisis counselors do not disclose any information provided by our clients. For Further Details: Crisis Hotline: 1877- NC-KIRAN or 1-877-625-4726 Kiran@Kiraninc.org www.kiraninc.org

Priyadarshini Arts Known for their unique dance drama pieces, is a non-profit, duo sister team, promoting India’s Vedic and modern heritage through the various forms of dance and acting. For Further Details: Varshana at priyadarshini.arts@gmail.com http://www.youtube.com/user/PriyadarshiniArts

Lakulish Yoga and Health Retreat Lakulish Yoga and Health Retreat is a secluded resort in Caswell County, located at 8136 N.C. Highway 119 South, Mebane, NC 27302. It is a place of natural beauty that stimulates a spirit of detachment and inspires and uplifts visitors. This resort is hallowed by a Yogi, a Sannyasi who

Professional Indians’ Association [PIA] PIA is a meetup that serves young South Asian professionals in the Triangle Community. The group is made of Indian professionals and grad students interested in cultural events, socializing and meeting/making friends with like-minded people around the Triangle. Monthly events include meeting

Saathee.com

106

Pratham - Triangle Area Founded as a UNICEF initiative, Pratham is a grass-roots organization that works towards universalizing primary education in India. With a goal of reaching 20 million children, Pratham is one of the largest NGOs in field of literacy movement in India. Pratham continues to evolve, grow and works to meet the continually changing needs of the children it educates. Pratham’s North Carolina chapter actively aims to collaborate with individuals, local organizations and community associations and seeks ideas, volunteers and resources to deliver the vision of “Every Child in School and Learning Well.” For details: Gunvant Bhakta, 919-488-8975; Punit Chhabra, 919-380-9569; Sudha Rathie, 919-481-4451; Harshad Shah, 919-341-8894. For Further Details: www.prathamusa.org

March 2012

Offering Bollywood, Contemporary, Fusion and Latin dance lessons for kids (Girls and Boys 4+ yrs) and teens in South Charlotte For Details Call

Shoma: 704.576.2225 email: mastidance.unlimited@gmail.com

Dance is fun, and fun is unlimited at...

Masti Unlimited

Ketan P. Soni

Soni Family law

Neetaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s BeautyParlor

attorney & mediator 704-200-2757

Near Hindu Center Open 7 Days A Week

Fax: 866-775-8419 1514 S. Church Street, Ste 103 Charlotte, nC 28203 ketan@sonifamilylaw.com

(Charlotte, NC) Call For Appointment

Representing clients on matters of Equitable Distribution, alimony, Child Custody and Support, and Divorce

704.968.0270

The BEST Ways to Reach the South Asian Community of the Carolinas G R E A T

A D VE R T I S I NG

Saathee.com Your web connection to the South Asian Community of the Carolinas Ask us about how your business can benefit with internet advertising on Saathee.com, Call (704) 527-7570

Saathee.com

Saathee

MAGAzINE A FREE monthly features magazine for the South Asian Community of the Carolinas Email Saatheemag@hotmail.com or call (704) 527-7570 for advertising rates & info

107

R E S ULT S !

Nazar

TElEvISIoN Bringing the BEST of Bollywood to the Carolinas every Sunday. Time Warner Cable Check local listing at saathee.com Call (704) 527-7570

March 2012

at bars/restaurants, Bollywood movie nights, potlucks, Indian concerts/performances, outdoor activities, community service and volunteering. This will also be an opportunity for professionals to share their thoughts on respective industries, social causes, the economy and politics. For Further Details: http://www.meetup.com/PIATriangle/ Raleigh Karaoke Group Raleigh Karaoke Group meets once a month for the South Asian community of the Triangle area to showcase their talent and lose themselves in nostalgia through song. The March session is scheduled for Friday 16 March 2012 from 7:30 - 11:30 pm at Zayka Indian Cuisine in the Brier Creek area (919.361.5370). Choose from over 15,000 Hindi Film, Non-Film, Ghazals, Gujrati, Punjabi, Kanada, Koli, Konkani, Malayalam, Malayalam Muslim, Marathi, Oriya, and English Songs including holiday favorites. Events are free and open to the entire music loving community for singing or listening to friends sing and pass the word. For Further Details: Shafi Parekh at (919) 413-3924, Email at shafi@pdiagnostics.com Raleigh Sai Center Parthi Sai devotees of Triangle area meet every Sunday from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm in the Mini-Hall of Hindu Bhavan in Morrisville. There will be Study circle, Bhajan Practice, Veda Chanting etc. during the 4-5 pm slot depending on the week, followed by bhajans from 5:00 - 6:00. The center carries out several service activities as well. The Human Values Education (SSE) classes for the children of different age group will be from 3:30 - 5:00. For Further Details: Ganesh Kumar, President, Raleigh Sai Center at (919) 413 0579 or (919) 833-7523 E-mail rsc.president@yahoo.com. Ramakrishna Vedanta Society of North Carolina The Ramakrishna Vedanta Society of NC draws inspiration from the timeless, philosophical wisdom of the Vedanta as practiced and preached in the modern day by Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda. Perhaps you know a great deal about Practical Vedanta and the message of the harmony of religions and the spiritual oneness of Existence or perhaps you are just curious and want to learn more. Regardless of background and/or knowledge the organization welcomes participants. For Further Details: www.vedantanc.org RTP Maharashtra Mandal RTP Maharashtra Mandal promotes Maharashtrian culture and language. Maharashtra mandal is committed to serve RTP community with various cultural, social and traditional marathi programs and events. For Further Details: 919.468.8824 (Jayant Yete) 919.757.7300 (Neeraj Shikarkhane) www.rtpmm.org Saathee.com

S. V. Temple of North Carolina S.V. Temple of North Carolina is built on over nine acres of centrally connected triangle area. This grand tribute to Lord Venkateswara and his consorts is designed to exacting standards of shilpa shasthra and features the only shrine in North America to incorporate abodes to Lord Viswaksena and Lord Sudarshana/Lord Narasimha as part of Srinivasa Parivaram. The temple rituals are performed in accordance with Pancharathra Agama Shastra. For Further Details: 919.468.0040 comm@svtemplenc.org www.svtemplenc.org Sahaj Marg Meditation - Triangle Area Sahaj Marg translates to â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Natural Path.â&#x20AC;? It is a natural, simple system of Raja Yoga meditation and spiritual practice that helps one realize the ultimate potential within oneself. Regular spiritual practice under capable guidance enables aspirants to progressively experience the sublime presence of the divine in their daily lives. Sahaj Marg system of meditation is freely offered to seekers worldwide through Shri Ram Chandra Mission. In Triangle area, group meditations are held on Sundays and Wednesdays. For Further Details: (919) 303-7447 (Raj Solanki) (919) 493-6180 (Devi Sekar) raleigh.center@gmail.com> www.srcm.org, www.sahajmarg.org SAMPIGE - Triangle Kannada Association The Triangle Kannada Association is a cultural association for people residing in the Triangle area from Karnataka, India. Sampige organizes Kannada (the language spoken in the Karnataka area) activities in music, dance and drama as well as social activities. For Further Details: sampigeeditor@yahoo.com www.sampige.org Share and Care Foundation Carolina Chapter Share and Care Foundation Carolina Chapter is part of Share and Care Foundation based in New Jersey. It is a Charitable organization focused their work in Rural India and their main goal is to empower children and women by providing funding to NGOs for their education, vocational training and microloans. More than 90% of donations reach the empowered people with the least administration and marketing cost. For further details: 919.237.2816 (Manu Patel), Patelmanu@hotmail.com 919.481.4618 (Piyush Patel) www.shareandcare.org Sikh Gurdwara of North Carolina The Sikh Gurudwara of North Carolina welcomes visitors of all backgrounds regardless of race, religion, ethnicity or gender. All peoples, regardless of their origin or orientation, are welcome to attend our services and share in the blessings of God. Religious services are held every Saturday evening and Sunday morning, followed by a community meal (langar). In addition to religious services, we offer educational programs 108

March 2012

Helping our community is my

COMMITMENT Let me guide you with NEW and RESALE Homes.

Champa Patel Broker/Realtor

704-562-7710 ohm7710@gmail.com

HEnnA’S DuLHAn

M u sic l esso n s & l ive S h o ws Harmonium & Keyboard

Create a Lasting Impression

- Learn Music the Easy Way!

for your Engagement, Wedding & Reception.

- Individual & Group Lessons

Helping Carolina Dulhans for over 7 years.

Makeup, hair, mehndi & more.

- From Ages 8 to 80 BOOk Our Band fOr live ShOwS Garba/Raas, Wedding Songs, Bhajans, Film Songs...

704.469.1967 (h) 704.488.0689 (c)

Kirit Shukla (704) 568-8206

Make A New Beginning with A Career in SAP! A Division of BallantyneTech Consulting

SaP traINING • SaP FI, BW, aBaP Weekend & Weekday Classes begin soon (see schedule below) Training locations: Charlotte, Raleigh, Greenville (SC), & Columbia (SC) We Now Have Offices in Bangalore & Chennai

• Take advantage of high paying consulting opportunities in SAP. • Our trainers are experienced and work with a variety of corporations and SAP Partners. • We assist in resume' preparation & job placement. • Effective knowledge transfer to better prepare you for SAP consulting opportunities.

Class schedule: Course Start Date SAP FI Classes . . . . . . . . . March 17 SAP CO Classes . . . . . . . . . March 18

End Date May 19 April 29

Due to high demand and extremely limited seats per batch, classes have been getting filled very quickly, especially SAP FI classes. Please register soon to reserve your admission for the course of your choice.

For further details, please contact us at Ph: 704 962 5159; email: support.btech@gmail.com

12627 Provincetowne Dr., Charlotte, NC 28277

www.ballantynetech.com Saathee.com

109

March 2012

for children and young adults. Adults participate in religious discourse during monthly study circles. Members of the Sangat (congregation) regularly participate in community service projects in the Triangle area. The Sikh Gurdwara at North Carolina is located at 3214 Banner Street in Durham, NC 27704. For Further Details: 919.220.9917 www.sgncweb.org South Indian Fine Arts Academy (SIFAA) SIFAA is a non-profit organization that works to arrange and promote concerts and performances in the Triangle and Triad areas, concentrating on Carnatic music for the present. Upcoming Events: Sat, April 21, 2012: Sri O.S.Thyagarajan (Vocal), Sri. Mullaivasal Chandramouli (Violin), Sri. Trivandrum Balaji (Mridangam) at 6:30pm. For Further Details: 919.773.1580 www.sifaa.org Sri Shirdi SaiBaba Mandir NC SSMNC promotes Sai philosophy and facilitates worship and services similar to Shirdi SaiBaba Temple, located in ShirdiIndia. This Organization is dedicated to sponsor and support religious, spiritual, cultural, educational and charitable activities in the United States and abroad. Mandir Timings: Monday - Friday 9 - 10 am, 12 noon - 1pm, 6 - 9 pm. Sat - Sun 9 am - 9pm. Details at www.shirdisaimandirnc.org or call 919.386.1085. St. Gregorios Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church Holy Qurbana and Sunday School are held in Malayalam/English, led by Reverend Dr. M. K. Thomas at 225 Bashford Road, Raleigh, NC. For Further Details: 919.461.1773 sec@stgregoriosnc.org www.stgregoriosnc.org Tamil Cultural Association of North Carolina (TCA NC) TCA NC is a non-profit organization formed for the purpose of providing youths with exposure to Tamil culture. Everyone is invited to join TCA and become part of a wonderful organization promoting Tamil culture in the Triangle area.. For Further Details: tca_nc@yahoo.com www.tcanc.org Tamil Sangam of Carolina The Tamil Sangam is an organization that promotes understanding of Tamil culture and provides a medium for people of Tamil culture to get together. The activities include music, drama, lectures, Tamil movies, etc. For Further Details: (919)-465-1606 Ravi Shanmugam (President) http://members.fortunecity.com/tamilsangamofcarolina Telugu Christian Fellowship of NC (TCFNC) The Telugu Christian Fellowship of North Carolina (TCFNC) Saathee.com

is a non-profit organization whose mission is to reach out to Telugu Christians living in North Carolina, to be united and bonded together as a Telugu Christian family of God and encourage and pray for each other. TCFNC provides a place for Telugu Christians for time of worship, prayer and fellowship. They also provide a forum for kids to grow in the knowledge of the Lord and to equip them to be ambassadors of Jesus Christ. The group organizes, each year, an Annual Telugu Christian Family Conference. For further details: www.tcfnc.org Phone: 919-43-TCFNC (82362) Triangle Area Telugu Association (TATA) The Triangle Area Telugu Association (TATA) is a non-profit organization (started in 1983) committed to building a vibrant Telugu Community and promoting Telugu culture and language in the Triangle area of North Carolina. For Further Details: committee@tataonline.org www.tataonline.org Triangle Bangladesh Society (TBSNC) TBSNC strives to arrange musical programs by artists who have captured the hearts and minds of millions of Bengali-, Urdu- and Hindi-speaking music fans all around the globe. For Further Details: 919.741.9343 (Ishtiaque Mohiuddin) Ishtiaquem@gmail.com www.tbsnc.org Triangle Chapter-India Development & Relief Fund (IDRF) IDRF is a registered, tax-exempt non-profit organization that supports volunteer-based, honest and highly experienced nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) in India in serving their populationsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; critical needs around education, childcare, healthcare, women empowerment and tribal welfare, as well as relief and rehabilitation in times of natural disasters. For Further Details: www.idrf.org. Triangle Gujarati Association (TGA) TGAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; s mission is to promote and serve Gujarati culture in the Triangle area by organizing various events throughout the year and impart Gujarati culture and language on the youth. Upcoming events: For Further Details: www.nctga.org Triangle Indian Youth Organization (TIYO) This organization has been created with the purpose of encouraging youths of Indian origin aged between 12-18 years to develop skills for leadership, to organize team-oriented efforts, understand and participate in community services, understand and develop individual potential. There will be activities that will fall into the broad categories of education, arts, cultural, charity, religious and community services. For Further Details: 919.363.7339 (Latha Pamarthi [Director of TIYO]) triangleindianyouth@yahoo.com 110

March 2012

Chawpaty Food Catering for all occasions

CRICKET GEAR INVENTORY • Brands: SS, SF, Adidas, CA, & Spros, • Items: Bats, Balls, Batting Pad, Keeping Gloves, Clothes, Bag, Grip, Helmets, Stumps & MORE!

15% oFF eVeRYtHING IN StoCK Gujarati, North Indian, Indo-Chinese, Specialty in Chaat Corner

Where: 2222 Plastics Drive Gastonia, NC 28054 704-853-1616 ask for Nalisha or Rudy (Mon-Fri) Time: 8:30 am-2:30 pm “All Sales Final”- “Cash Only”

Yagnesh Patel 704.756.3182

For Luxurious, Memorable Vacations And Business Trip Ticketing

The Carolina’s Link To Wholesale Airline Tickets Serving the Carolina's for the 18th Year in a row. Your most Trusted & Reliable Travel Source in the Carolina's. Consolidator for all MAJOR AIRlINES to India, Europe, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri lanka, Middle East,Africa,Asia, the Far East,Australia, New Zealand, Fiji & any World Wide destination.

We do Cruises to All Destinations!

Amtrak, Eurail, Britrail & Indian Rail Reservations Tour Packages to India, Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia including New Zealand & Fiji, Hawaii, Bahamas, Mexico, Jamaica and many more places.

For CourteouS, relIaBle aND PerSoNal SerVICe

201 West Chatham St. (Suite 110), Cary, NC 27511 (Located in the Olde Cary Commons Bldg. On the corner of Harrison & Chatham.)

919. 380.9191 • 919.439.9091 Fax: 919.460.9292 E-mail: travelinks@gmail.com

Monday - Friday 10:00am - 6:00 pm Saturday 10:30am - 2:30pm. Sunday by Appointment Saathee.com

For Emergency & After Hour Service 919.868.9000 Cell 111

March 2012

Triangle Rang Mandal Devotees of Pujya Sri Rang Avdhoot Maharaj meet every Saturday in Cary or Raleigh from 8:30 PM - 10:30 PM to sing devotional Dattatreya Bhajans and Datta-Bavani in a spiritual atmosphere. Special programs organized on Guru Purnima and Rang Jayanti and on the occasion of Pujya Sri Prem Avdhoot Bapji’s annual visit to the US. For Further Details: rangmandal@gmail.com Triangle Vegetarian Society (TVS) The mission of TVS is to build a sense of community between current vegetarians and people who are interested in vegetarianism and have a forum for a discussion of issues. For Further Details: barman@cs.unc.edu www.trianglevegsociety.org Two Cents of Hope (TCH) Two Cents of Hope was started by a group of Indian students at NC State University with the belief in empowering youth via education. The goal is to uplift the weaker sections of the society through education. The foundation lies in the power of cents giving TCH its name. As J. Carney put it, “Little drops of water, little grains of sand, make the mighty ocean, and the pleasant land.” By using coin boxes to collect loose change, the total donations result in a collection that yields considerable amount of money, enough to give education to a poor student - indeed a firm footing for the rest of his or her life. Apart from the coin collection other sources of funding includes fundraising events (Trishna, Crescendo, and Booth in Cary Diwali) and sponsors. In the last three years TCH has funded $21,689, which includes 77 projects benefitting 270 students and two schools in India. For Further Details: email - coordinator@nc.twocentsofhope.com. www.twocentsofhope.com Urdu Majlis Urdu Majlis is a literary organization for the promotion of Urdu language and literature and has no political, national or religious affiliations. The group has regularly scheduled monthly meetings in which enthusiasts and scholars of Urdu literature meet to discuss the life and works of a selected literary figure. For Further Details: 919.851.1119 (Dr. Afroz Taj) 919.596.4792 (Ashraf and Seema Faruqi) taj@unity.ncsu.edu Vaishnav Samaj of Triangle Area The Vaishnav Samaj is a group of like-minded devotees who meet for religious worship and understand Pushti Marg Principles at large. Recently, a sub-chapter of Vallabh Youth Organization (VYO) was formed under the leadership of Mrs. Harsha Shah. Regular Bhajan recitations are held 2nd Sunday of the month from 4-6 pm and Seniors are requested to encourage youngsters to participate in the activities. For Further Details: Arvindbhai Shah 919.233.7677 Vithalbhai Shah 919.467.4254 Navinbhai Parikh 919.387.8808 Saathee.com

112

Regional Barsana Dham satsang [Greenville, NC] For Further Details: Madhu Sharma 336.404.7047 email: madhu0sharma@yahoo.com Website: www.barsanadham.org Cape Fear Cultural Association of India - Wilmington Cape Fear Cultural Association of India is an organization that promotes understanding of Indian culture and promotes a medium for people of Indian culture to get together. For Further Details: Shashin Patel, President. (910.790.9448) Sanjay Batish, Vice-President. (910.371.9860) Georgia Indo-American Chamber of Commerce The Georgia Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (GIACC) develops and promotes trade, business, commercial and professional relationships between India and the United States, especially within the state of Georgia. GIACC was formed recognizing the need for promoting bi-lateral activities among South Asian and mainstream communities in the United States and South Asia. For Further Details: 678.762.7589 AniThirdM@aol.com, ani@giacc.org. 770.840.1925 - susan@giacc.org. www.giacc.org Hindu Bhavan of Fayetteville, NC Hindu Bhavan of Fayetteville, NC is a nonprofit organization. Ceremonies and events take place regularly. Temple Address: 907 Cedar Creek Road, Fayetteville, NC 28302. Upcoming Events: May 19 – 21: Brahmotsav For further details: 910.485.4626 910.484.8956 hindubhavan@yahoo.com www.hindubhavan.org Hindu Society of Eastern NC (Greenville, NC) Upcoming Events: Sun March 11, 25: Geeta Study - 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon For Further Details: B.S. Srivatsa 508.654.0360 Hindutemplenc@gmail.com Sri Somesvara Temple Sri Somesvara Temple is located near Asheville, NC. Temple hours are 8 am - 7:30pm. Regularly scheduled pujas: Subrabhath Aarti - 8 am, Rudrabhishek Nityapuja - 9 am - 12 noon, Pradoshakala puja and mangala aarti - 6 pm - 7:30pm. The temple also hosts special events. Contact the temple: 828.476.4073. It is located in the mountains at 95 Mount Soma Blvd., Clyde, NC 28721 For details visit: www.srisomesvara.org. March 2012

Saathee M A G A z I N E

Free Subscription (nC & SC) Name: _______________________________________________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ Phone: _________________ Date: ______ E-mail: ________________________________

Mail to: Saathee Magazine Subscriptions • PO Box 11468 • Charlotte, NC 28220

OR Subscribe online at www.saathee.com E-mail to: Saatheemag@hotmail.com

Fax: (704) 527-7590 Call: (704) 527-7570 NoTE: The mailing list information is kept strictly confidential. We Do NoT sell our mailing list to outside agencies and the phone number is used to verify your address. Shukla Entertainment does use the mailing list to mail Saathee Magazine advertising supplemental fliers, mailers, etc. Free subscription for NC, SC, vA & GA only. Digital edition avalable at www.saathee.com. Moving? Please drop us a line so we can update your mailing address. Saathee.com

113

March 2012

South Carolina American South Asian Cultural Association of Columbia, SC The American South Asian Cultural Association of Columbia’s fundamental goal is to increase cultural awareness and develop cultural understanding among American Southeast Asian Community in Columbia area. A monthly Lunch meeting will be held on the Second Sunday of every month between 1 to 3 PM. There will be $7.00 Per Person charge for Lunch (Kids Ages 6-10 pay half price) at Delhi Palace, 542 Saint Andrew Road, Columbia, 29210. Contact in the evenings: (803) 233-7042 OR (803) 233-3995. Bethel Christian Fellowship Bethel Christian Fellowship offers services in various Indian languages (i.e. Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, etc.) and Sunday Worship services are at 11:30 a.m. Address: Fort Mill Church of God, Student Life Center Building, 216 Academy St., Rm 102. Fort Mill, SC 29715 For Further Details: 803.792.7223 Pastor Rajan Samuel @ pastorofbcf@gmail.com www.bethelchristianfellowship.org Carolina Buddhist Vihara (Greenville, SC) Regular beginner meditation program conducted by a Buddhist Monk. Activities are held Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings: 6:30 pm (puja), 7 pm (meditation), and 8 pm (“Dhamma” talk or discussion). A “youth program” is also held once a month. For Further Details: dhammasc@hotmail.com Hindu Society of Greater Spartanburg The daily Aarti is at 7:00 p.m., Balvihar classes are conducted from 10:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. on scheduled Sundays, and Satsang is on second Sunday every month from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Temple is located on 1130 Fairview Church Road in Boiling Springs, S.C. 29303. For Further Details: 864.599.7048 Hindu Temple of South Carolina The Hindu Temple and Cultural Center of South Carolina was established with an objective to fill the need for thousands of Hindus in the State of South Carolina to worship and pray together, perform sacraments and rituals, to observe and celebrate festivals, and to perform and engage in humanitarian and educational activities. For Further Details: www.hindutemplesc.org/index.php India Assoc. of Greater Charleston (IAGC) The IAGC was founded in Charleston to bring together people who were interested in India and to provide a forum to increase the understanding of the heritage of India in US. For Further Details: 803.884.0859 iagcfolks@yahoo.com Saathee.com

114

International Fellowship Church of Greenville, SC International Fellowship Church offers Sunday worship services and other weekly activities for people of Indian origin. For Further Details: 864.234.1256 (Pastor Suhas Raiborde) www.internationalfellowshipchurch.org Masjid Noor-UL-Huda The Mosque is located at 517 Winmet Drive, Columbia, S.C. On the first Saturday and third Saturday of every month from 6 PM to 8 PM, Islamic session is held by Hafiz Mohammed Basheer. Quranic Reading classes are conducted daily, and everyone is encouraged to send their children to these sessions. For Further Details: 803.749.0827 (Dr. Shami) 803.740.5127 (Qari Abdul Khader Multani) 803.754.2632 (Mosque main number) Mrudani School of Performing Arts Mrudani School of Performing Arts is a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote the classical arts of India. Mrudani School offers classes in Bharathanatyam (Kalakshetra style) and Kuchipudi in Columbia, Orangeburg, and Charleston, SC. For Further Details: Monica @ 843.849.7841 Anuradha @ 803.347.3851 classicaldance.india@gmail.com Sirigannada Sirigannada, the Kannada Association of South Carolina, a nonprofit organization was created on July 18, 2004 by the interested Kannada speaking people of South Carolina. It is a voluntary organization primarily run by memberships and donations from Kannadigas of the State of South Carolina. For Further Details: www.sirigannada.org Telugu Association of Greater Greenville, SC Telugu Association of Greater Greenville, SC, serves the Telugu community of the Greenville/Spartanburg area of South Carolina. The group sponsors several events throughout the year. For Further Details: www.taggsc.org Triad Avatar Meher Baba Group The Meher Center is a spiritual retreat/ashram located on SC Highway 17 immediately North of the Highway 22 connection 8 miles from Myrtle Beach, SC. Meher Baba visited this place 3 times and considered it His home in the West. A small brick house built especially for Him is open for “Darshan” on Fridays and Sunday (11:00 am.) / Meher Center: (843) 272-5777. For Further Details: 336.299.9683 runderwood@webtv.net www.avatarmeherbaba.org Send updates or events for your club, group, organization, or association, for inclusion in the Community News section by the 15th of the month to: saatheemag@hotmail.com March 2012

Law Offices of

MRUGES H S . PAT EL Member of American Immigration Lawyers Association

(888)549-0030 Family Petition Fiance Visa H-1, L-1, & Student Visa Visitor Visa Labor Certification North Carolina Office:* 1913-204 J. N. Pease Place University Ridge Office Center Charlotte, NC 28262

Citizenship Removal/Deportation Re-entry Permit Adoption Consular Processing New Jersey Office: 1941 Oak Tree Road Suite 101 Edison, NJ 08820

* Practice in north Carolina limited to immigration only (office visit by appointment only)

save Money

On Insurance

"You work hard for everything you have, it’s nice to know you have an insurance company that works just as hard to protect your things; home-auto-life, complete coverage for complete peace of mind"

Protecting customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia & West Virginia

We offer a variety of insurance

Home • Auto • Condo • Boat • Business Property • Business Liability • Worker’s Comp Renter’s Insurance • Hotels/Motels • Taxi Insurance • Life Insurance

Maqsood Khan

Khan and Associates Inc. 349 South Swing Road Greensboro, NC 27409

Principle Agent khanm5@nationwide.com

336-510-0568 Cell: 336-508-4702 Toll Free: 1-877-510-KHAN Fax: 336-510-0825 Nationwide Mutual Insurance Comany and Affilliated companies. Nationwide Life Insurance Company. Home Office: Columbus, Ohio 43215-2220. Nationwide, the Nationwide Framemark and On Your Side are federally registered service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Saathee.com

115

March 2012

Pop’s Puzzles & Jokes Clues Down:

By Kirit Shukla

Note: * denotes abbreviation of the word or phrase Clues Across: 1. The official state bird of New York. 8. A metal container. 10. The edible grains of the cereal grass. 11. The third month of the calendar. 13. Offensive Guard. (*) (Football). 14. Gathered and put together (Facts) in an orderly form. 17. A red, juicy fruit used to make ketchup. 19. Prophetic. 21. A complete circuit. (Electricity) 22. Of the Rhine or the regions around it. 24. A person who puts money in the business to make profit. 26. Weep; To sob and shed tears. 27. Of a perfect kind; Conceptual. 28. Objective form of they. 29. Relatives; Related, as by blood. 31. The manner in which a thing splits; Fissure. 33. To keep looking (at) boldly with obvious desire. 35. Hindi word for chickpeas; (Chhole). 36. Bachelor of Divinity. (*) 37. Oregon. (*)38. Account Of. (*) 39. Having no moisture; Not wet. 41. Rhode Island. (*) 42. Bad tempered; Confused. 45. Delaware. (*) 46. A unit of land measure = 4840 Square Yard. 47. To write the destination on (a letter).

Saathee.com

1. To try to get favor with (someone) by fawning. 2. An area of shallow salt water separated from the sea by the sand dunes. 3. Utah. (*) 4. Got out, broke loose (as from a prison). 5. Living or lasting forever; Deathless. 6. Another term for hip-hop. 7. Number one wood, used to hit the golf ball from the tee. 8. A celebration of the New Year’s day by Sindhi; 3/24/2012. 9. New York. (*) 12. Clique; A group of people with interests in common. 15. Overtime. (*) 16. Lacks a due respect; Neglects. 18. Changing place or position; Impelling. 20. The thick mass resulting from gastric digestion of food. 23. It is dealt face down in stud poker. 25. To discriminate, or distinguish. 28. Tennessee Valley Authority. (*) 30. Containing pentavalent iodine. 32. In touch with. (Informal) 34. To become unable to ﬁnd. 36. The undergarment worn by woman; Brassiere (*) 40. Aye; It is so. 43. Anti Aircraft. (*) 44. Year. (*) (Puzzle solutions are on page 124. NO peeking!)

Hee Hee Teacher: “What animal is not afraid of the lion?” Chiki: “Lioness.” •••••••••••••• Husband: “There are two occasions in the life of a man when he cannot understand a woman.” Wife: “I know. Before marriage and after marriage.” •••••••••••••• A man robbed the bank, then he put his gun near the ear of a teller and asked: “Did you see me robbing the bank?” Teller: “Yes.” Robber shot him. He then put his gun to the forehead of another teller and asked the same question. Second teller: “No. But, my mother-in-law saw you robbing the bank.” •••••••••••••• Mafatlal went to a jewelry showroom. Mafatlal: “I want to buy a gold necklace with a heart pendant for my best girlfriend.” Salesman: “This is a good necklace but it is expensive.” Mafatlal: “OK. I will buy this one.” Salesman: “Would you like her name carved into it? It’s free.” Mafatlal: “No. If we break up, I can use the same one again.” 116

March 2012

YOUTH CORNER (Created By Kirit Shukla) (Find & circle the words in the puzzle). (Subject: “Fasten Up” )

ATTACH BOLT BUCKLE BUTTON CEMENT CHAIN CLAMP CLASP CLING CLIP CONNECT EPOXY FASTENER GLUE JOIN KNOT LATCH LOCK NAIL

PASTE PIN RIVET SCREW SEW SLING SOLDER STAPLE STITCH STRAP STUD TACK TAPE TIE TOGETHER TWINE VELCRO WELD WRAP

The unused 9 letters spell Saathee’s Feature “__ & Holidays”

EZ-BZ TEST YOUR OWN IQ The common letters are “PL” - Fill in the blanks 1. Having two similar parts. _ _ PL _ _ _ _ 2. The fluid part of blood or lymph. PL _ _ _ _ 3. Excess; Extra. _ _ _ PL _ _ 4. The motto on the seal of US. _ PL _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 5. To answer or respond in speech or writing. _ _ PL _ 6. Delight; Enjoyment. PL _ _ _ _ _ _ 7. Not complex; Unadorned. _ _ _ PL _ 8. Florida Power & Light. (*) _ PL 9. A fixed-winged aircraft that fly in the air. _ _ _ PL _ _ _ 10. To remove a plug from. _ _ PL _ _ 11. To engage in a game; Gamble. PL _ _ 12. Praise by clapping hands . _ _ PL _ _ _ _ 13. An established law of a science. _ _ _ _ _ _ PL _ 14. Exhibit. _ _ _ PL _ _ 15. One of the twisted strands in rope, yarn, etc. PL _ 16. A round, firm, red or yellow edible fruit. _ _ PL _ 17. Manifold; Numerous. _ _ _ _ _ PL _ 18. To scatter liquid substance about. _ PL _ _ _ 19. Three offspring born at a single birth. _ _ _ PL _ _ _ 20. A young tree ready to put into soil for growth. PL _ _ _ 21. Illustration in math. _ _ _ _ PL _ 22. To divide into two or more parts. _ PL _ _ 23. To hire; To provide work and pay. _ _ PL _ _ 24. Any very showy display or effort. _ PL _ _ _ _ 25. Finished; Entire. _ _ _PL _ _ _ (Puzzle solutions are on page 124. NO peeking!)

Kirit Shukla Contact him at kiritsshukla@hotmail.com

Saathee.com

117

March 2012

Astride

continued from page 48

March 2012 Mar. 4 - Āmalaki Ekādasi Mar. 7 - Holi (Full Moon) Mar. 8 - Dhuleti Mar. 11 - Daylight Saving Time Starts Mar. 12 - Rang Panchami Mar. 17 - St. Patrick’s Day Mar. 18 - Pāpamochini Ekādasi Mar. 22 - Darsh Amās (No Moon) Mar. 23 - Gudi Padwo (Shālivāhan Shaka—1934 Starts) Mar. 24 - Chetichand April 2012 Apr. 1 - Rām Navami Apr. 1 - Swāminārāyan Jayanti Apr. 1 - April fool Day Apr. 3 - Kāmadā Ekādasi Apr. 5 - Mahāvir Jayanti Apr. 6 - Hanumān Jayanti Apr. 6 - Good Friday (Full Moon) Apr. 8 - Easter Apr. 13 - Baishākhi Apr. 16 - Varuthini Smārt Ekādasi Apr. 17 - Income Tax due Apr. 21 - Chaitri Amās (No Moon) Apr. 22 - Earth Day Apr. 24 - Akshay Trutiā Apr. 24 - Parshurām Jayanti Apr. 26 - Ādya Shankarācharya Jayanti Apr. 27 - Ramanujācharya Jayanti Apr. 28 - Gangā Saptami May 2012 - June 2012 May 1 - Mahā Gujarat / Maharastra Day May 6 - Buddha Purnimā (Full Moon) May 13 - Mothers Day May 28 - Memorial Day May 20 - Darsh Amās (No Moon) (Solar Eclipse) Jun. 1 - Bhim Ekādasi Jun. 2 - 4 - Vatasāvitri Vrat Jun. 4 - Akshar Purnimā Jun. 15 - Yogini Ekādasi Jun. 17 - Father’s day Jun. 21 - Rath Yātrā Jun. 30 - Devshayani Ekādasi Jul. 4 - Independence Day (USA) Saathee.com

nations are definitely making strides towards creating an equitable society, whichever way you choose to define it. The problem as I see it may be put like this: If I am a taxpayer, I demand to have a right as to which way the Government spends my money. In a democracy the government gets elected by the majority. If this majority is, for the most part, poor, then it’s as if they get a voice in spending other people’s tax dollars. Naturally, those paying the most taxes may not feel that money spent on the poor is money well spent. They can say, and they do say, that space exploration, the military, the arts, among other endeavors, deserve greater attention than soup kitchens or free health dispensaries. There is something to be said in a wild west America, where one lives by one’s wits and the motto is “winner takes all.” In a nation where guns are freely sold in supermarkets, and where it’s not been a 100 years since Wyatt Earp, Marshall of Dodge City, died, the maxim “from each according to his capabilities, to each according to his needs” does not quite ring true. The debate on whether to be good or whether to be strong will rage on endlessly, while people like Amartya Sen write volumes on inequality and people like Steven Covey write on the seven habits of highly effective people. The Italian Shipwreck The other day I got an email from my friend, Murali, which pointed me to the last paragraph of a news article. The paragraph read, “External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna has asked India’s Ambassador to Italy, Debabrata Saha, to reach the accident spot to coordinate the rescue operations. Two Indian officials have already reached the site.” Debabrata, who was in the same B.Sc class at St. Xavier’s College, Calcutta, as me during 1968-71, is a good friend of mine, no name-dropping intended. I sent him an email wishing him all the best, and he replied – after about three days, during which he must have been very busy. Here’s his email: The Indians are all safely back in India, save one who remains missing. Meanwhile, Murali and I had an email exchange wherein I first wondered how an Ambassador could be put in charge of rescue operations, since it required an “operations” expert with a different set of skills. Murali’s brief answer to that was that Ambassadors are just facilitators. I guess that means that they make the resources available. This reminds me of the hospital fire that happened about six months ago in Calcutta. From the news, I gather that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee immediately rushed to the scene of the fire and took charge. I would have thought that the fire Chief would be better positioned to head the operations. Anyway, quite a few lives were lost in that fire. Returning to the accident involving the ship Costa Concordia, India had set up a control room in New Delhi and its mission in Italy to help families find out about relatives who were abroad the luxury liner which ran aground off the Tuscan coast in Italy. Without wishing to deviate from the subject, the ship somehow reminded me of the S.S. Iberia, of the company Conte Grande, in which my family went to England in 1961, from Bombay to Genoa, and then by train through Europe to Calais in France. From Calais to Dover, England, was by ship again through the English Channel. In those days ocean liners were serious business and were the only way for civilians to travel large distances. Nowadays, such liners are used mainly for pleasure cruises, while globe-trotting businessmen, students, and tourists – not to talk of immigrants – crowd the airways that crisscross our planet. 118

March 2012

Looking for a Job or a business? Want to take music lessons? Want to Sell a business? CHECk Out tHE SAAtHEE ClASSIFIEdS! Page 122

Saathee Classifieds. they Work For YOu!

An inexpensive way to reach thousands of South Asians throughout the Carolinas and beyond.

Saathee

A features magazine for the South Asian Community of the Carolinas

704-527-7570 or e-mail: saatheemag@hotmail.com Classifieds also available at www.saathee.com

SINGH CPA PLLC ACCOuNTING & TAX SERvICES 4925 W. Market Street, Suite 1123 Fanta City Shopping Center Greensboro, NC 27407 Ph: 336-542-3297 Cell: 336-542-8151 Fax: 336-542-3035 Email: singhaccounting@live.com

We specialize in: n Tax Preparation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Individual & Business Taxes n Bookkeeping & Write Up Services n Compilation Services n Payroll Services n Set Up New Business n Financial Statement Review and Analysis n Sales & Use Tax Free Electronic Filling | Receive Rapid Tax Refunds

Free Consultation No Obligation

Individual, S-Corporation, C-Corporation, LLC & Partnership.

Arvinder Singh

CPA, FCA Licensed in North Carolina & West Virginia BOA Member: NCACPA and ICAI

Saathee.com

119

March 2012

of the month. Try to curb expenses and avoid taking financial risks. Your health may also give you constant problems this month. Try to take it easy. LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 23) You may end up wasting your energy for useless pursuits. You may have to work below your status. Try to use your knowledge and education to avoid disgraceful situation. Your family may not come forward to support you. Try to be flexible and avoid having a stubborn attitude. Don’t argue with your spouse, but instead listen to your spouse. Also, don’t ignore your health. The end of the month may bring good news from far off place.

General Predictions for March 2012 ARIES (Mar 20- Apr 20) Confusion and lack of confidence may lead you towards a downward slide. Misunderstanding with spouse and business partner could be another major concern this month. All these events may have an adverse effect on your health. It is very important that you hold on to your morals; don’t react immediately to any problem. Move slowly and avoid taking any risks. It is very important that you play safe this month.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 22) This month may be an extension of the previous month. Improvements may take longer than anticipated. Avoid making any comments in public. However, you can count on help from your spouse. Stomach virus may bother you in the beginning of the month. Move slowly and avoid risk-taking tendency. Misunderstanding and arguments at workplace may bring frustration. Work with your spouse as a team this month.

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 21) Luck may favor you this month and a healthy competition may lift your status to a higher level in finance. There may be problems in certain fields of life. Try to avoid any conflict or dispute with your spouse. Watch your health carefully. Family support may not be sufficient to protect you sometimes. Last week of the month may bring great news for you. Try not to risk your health and avoid conflict with enemies.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21) Steady flow of income and good news regarding your child may make you happy. You may also feel relaxed and romantic this month. Don’t look to making easy and quick money. You may have to witness trouble for the people around you. You should also watch your health; last week of the month looks significant in this regards. It is very important that you act mature and with moral standards. Don’t rush this month.

GEMINI (May 21 - Jun 21) You may be able to perform to your standard this month. Destiny may protect you, but your egoistic comments may put you in a shameful situation. Unexpected financial gain in the last days of the month is possible, but teeth or ear-related problem may not let you enjoy the good luck. Don’t react aggressively this month and also drive carefully to avoid problems. You may end up in a positive state due to your luck.

CAPRICORN (Dec 21 - Jan 20) Destiny may play a cruel game with you. Problems with partner and financial setback may lead you towards frustration. Your analysis may go wrong. Your friends and kids may provide support and help this month. It is very important that you slow down and move one step back. Wait for now and watch the situation. Destiny is sending you into the next phase of life. Take your time to digest changes.

CANCER (Jun 21 - Jul 22) You may enjoy new opportunities this month, but due to family-related problems you may end up losing it. Try not to take risks. Focus on learning something new and build your knowledge. Good health is clearly indicated. Destiny may lead you into a negative direction and punish you. It is important that you listen to your parents or seniors. It is advisable to focus on your career-related activities this month.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 19) Problems with your superior may force you to compromise with your status and income. Your spouse may create more problems for you. Your luck may help you occasionally to survive. Your parents could be the best help during this timeframe. Learn to compromise and ignore negative comments. Avoid taking major financial risks and try to keep a smile on your face. Second half of the month could be better than first half.

LEO (Jul 22 - Aug 23) Bad luck may strike you this month, allowing you to lean towards religious activities. Major health problem is also possible during the second week of the month. Arguments with family members or business partner may cause mental stress. The second half of the month may prove to be less troublesome than the first half. It is advisable to spend time with kids and your hobby; don’t take any instant decision.

PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20) It is very important that you use your own knowledge to make your decisions. Listen to others but don’t make comments. Avoid your enemies and focus on building your reputation. Also, try to avoid any legal disputes. Money may not come immediately, but you will feel satisfied with a rise in your savings for now. You may get involved in a partnership deal this month.

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 23) Fear and lack of confidence may force you to make unintelligent mistakes this month. Situation may deteriorate as you reach the end of the month. Major expenses are also possible this month. You may enjoy good news regarding monetary gains during last days Saathee.com

By Jalendu Vaidya Contact: 908-638-6388 / hindusvision.com 120

March 2012

In Business for 10 Years

Distributors of Best Selling Prepaid Calling Cards in the Carolinas!

100%

Guaranteed*

Attention Convenience Stores, Grocery Stores & Gas Stations!

We shall match or beat any competitors prices*

Calling cards for every country in the world at Best Discounts We carry all cards from all major providers. Plus wireless cards from AT&T and Verizon. We speak your language be it English, Hindi, Gujarati, Marathi, Tamil, Malayalam, Spanish and Arabic.

Call for a Salesman or an Authorized distributor in your area. *Conditions apply, ask for details.

We ship all over the uS.

Swift Telecom • 801 Clanton Rd, Ste C-104 • Charlotte NC 28217

Toll Free 877.290.2609 • Tel 704.248.6059 • Fax 704.644.7723

Saathee

Classifieds BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES: Business for sale: One of the oldest Indo/Pak grocery and halal meat store in Charlotte area. Great location. Halal area is licensed by the city. Ahsim Saleem 704-493-7629. Fast Food Franchise for sale, Concord, NC. Great location near biggest mall, Speedway, attractioons, hotels, Indoor Water Park. Owner relocating. Steal for Investors or Operators. 786-218-3386. Business For Sale: Boost Mobile Phone store in Charlotte, NC. Open 2 years, good business. Call for more information 704-494-9244. Hotel Investment Opportunity in Raleigh, NC. Days Inn with 86 rooms. $2.85 M. Call for details 919-455-5949.

Space available for lease in a prime location in south Charlotte. Ideal for accounting, service, insurance, Kids academy... For details e-mail: response4321@gmail.com Commercial Property w/ Laundromat and Retail Space: 5200 Sq. ft. space in Gastonia, NC. Includes full laundromat plus two retail spaces. $2,000 in monthly rent for both retail spaces; 919-749-5810 or 704-868-3718 (8 to noon)

Hotel Management Firm Now Hiring: Various positions available for House keepers, front desk (must speak fluent English), and General Manager/s of franchise hotels. Experience is REQUIRED for all positions. Serious inquiries only. Email resumes to abcone@abcinns.com OR call ( 704-649-6833 m-f , 9:00 am- 5:00pm)

Store with Gas Station For Quick Sale: Includes property. Located in Gas Station Help Wanted: Looking for a Hiddenite, NC 28636. Please call Couple or single. Full-Time for Dinesh at 828-632-2759 or 646-549-4097. convenience store / gas station / restaurant near Charlotte, NC. Accommodations Fast growing Indian Restaurant in Provided! 704-701-9975 Cary,NC available for ownership Refulgent Technologies Inc.: IT staffing change .Very good American, Muslim company is currently recruiting Java, .Net, and Indian clientele Famous for SQL Server and QA candidates. We also Biryani and Kabab .Serious inquiries do Training & Placement. Please contact only. Call 919-434-6799 or 919-244-4741. Anu: e-mail: recruiter @refulgent-tech.com EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES: or 704-405-4238 Looking for a Nanny in North Charlotte Threading Practitioners Wanted: Full or (University area). Please contact: 704- Part-Time. In Charlotte, Raleigh, & 237-0170. Richmond areas. Experience & good

C-Stores: Charlotte, $550K + Inv., GR $1.7M; Hudson, NC, $309K + Inv., GR $338K; Leland, NC, $369K + Inv., GR $7.2M; Bessemer City, NC, $70K + Inv., GR $1.6M; Hiring kitchen workers for Indian vegetarian restaurant. Must be able to 704-814-9435 www.countysouth.biz work weekends and evenings. Call 980High Volume Gas Station/Conv Store: 297-4860 On very busy intersection in Augusta, GA Help Wanted: Franchise Motel in for lease. Very populated neighborhood Raleigh, NC needs couple for front desk. with highway traffic. Call Manpreet 864Must have Legal status. Must Speak 554-4846. Call between 9am-5pm. English, Accommodation will be Indian Restaurant For Sale: Well provided. Please Call: 919-208-3513 established and profitable in North Charlotte prime location. Serious buyers Help Wanted: Care for elderly person. only. Contact: indian.food270@gmail.com. Live-in or live-out. Kingston, NC area. Please call 252-520-0200. Gas Station for Rent: Prime location on Hwy 105 South in town limits, Boone Help Wanted full time convenience NC. Available Now! Options to rent as store/gas station in Danville, VA 1 hour other business. $1,450/mth. Call 828-262- from Greensboro and Durham NC. Single or couple. Contact: 704-724-1337 1081. Or go to HiddenCreekMgt.com. or 704-724-8356. Gas Station / Conv. Store For Lease: Nanny Needed: Seeking a loving and Gas station/conv. store for lease in S.C. energetic full time nanny for 5 month Rent $2500 p.m. only. Call 678-326-6564 old. Matthews, NC. Prefer English and for more details. Gujarati speaking. Must have Shell Gas Station for Sale or Lease: On transportation. Call 407-488-5334 or HWY 211 in Red Springs N.C. Contact email matthewsnanny1@gmail.com. any time at 910-843-5950. Waiter or waitress needed for Citgo Gas Station for Sale in restaurant in South Charlotte. Part or Charlotte. Great location. For Details full time. Long term. Ideal for college call Mr. Song at 704-806-0425. student, housewife, young person or Business For Sale with Property: anyone who is looking for job. Must Convenience/Gas & Liquor Store. Good speak English and be a hard worker. running business, BP Brand, college next 704-724-5555. door, owner moving. Serious inquiries Help Wanted: Energetic male or female needed for retail clothing stores in South only. Call Gordon 864-923-4213 Carolina. Must speak fluent English. Gas station for sale / lease in Lake CONTACT 706-877-0314 or email Waccamaw, N.C. Call Anee 347-433-7615. resume@PAMSUM70@gmail.com Saathee.com

Gujurati speaking Nanny needed in Cary, NC. Vegeterian cooking and light housekeeping. Excellent pay and accomodations. 919-444-1597

122

English skills needed. Please call 980322-1110 Desk Clerk & Housekeeping Positions with accomodation for hotel in greenville sc area. Will train, contact vinvpatel@gmail.com or call 864-9628484. Serious applicants only, long term comitment required. Nanny Needed: Looking Nanny for our infant in Charlotte (West Charlotte). Please call 336-558-6410. Gas Station Help: Looking for full-time or part-time single or couple help for a gas station in Mooresville, NC (Charlotte Area). Experience preferred but not needed. Call 704-222-8998 or leave a message. Motel Help Needed: Looking for couples to clean rooms in Franchise hotel in Roanoke, VA and single person for laundry. Should be legal to work in USA. Good pay and free accommodation. Call Ssunny Shah 540-537-0618. Full or part-time nanny / household help needed in north Charlotte (Concord Mills mall). Cooking and/or light household work expected. Call 803 233 3741. Hiring Immediately: Energetic Sales Person. Opportunity for advancement. For part/full time position in men’s clothing store. Must speak fluent English and people friendly. Stores located in Camden, Columbia, & Orangeburg, SC. Good Pay+Commissions. Contact 803-427-1681. March 2012

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES: continued Need full time nanny (8 am - 5:30 pm) for 10 month old baby in Matthews. Cooking & light housework required. Call 704-351-8813. Babysitter needed for 7 month old . weekdays (9am to 5pm) in university area. Please contact 704-287-5508 Help Wanted: Franchise Motel in Raleigh, NC need couple for Housekeeping. Must have Legal status. Accommodation will be provided. Please Call: 919-208-3514 Need a Full Time Nanny: Charlotte area to take care of our four month old. Contact: 952-334-3666 or svamsi@hotmail.com Threading job in Winston Salem. Hair Threading female position open for IMMEDIATE HIRE. Full-time or PartTime, for long term. Call 980-622-4386. Household Help Wanted: Charlotte Area. Cooking and light cleaning. Part-time & good pay. Please call: 704-992-5775 Help Wanted: Full Time Employee for CSTORE / GAS STATION near Wadesboro, NC. Accommodations provided, call: 704-695-7553 or 704-4658089. e-mail: ratravijay@gmail.com MATRIMONIAL: Seeking A Hindu Indian Female: For a divorced male age 37 for marriage, working in NC on h1b. For info call: 704-957-9005 Gujarati Vaishnav Parents: Looking for well qualified US based Vaishnav boy for Vadodara based vaishnav girl - 27 / 5-5/115 BE Computer engineer(having US Visa). contact : US :507-469-2021 email: shah_rutvik@yahoo.com PROPERTY FOR SALE OR RENT: Beautiful House in safe neighborhood for rent: 4 bed, 2.5 bath, office formals, open plan, lots of sunlight. Very near I84/485, Concord Mills. Please call 704510-1443. Townhome for sale near Park Rd Shopping Center Charlotte. Great Location and Myers Park High School zone. 2 br; 1.5 bath, fireplace. 135k. For details e-mail: rakavid@aol.com Saathee.com

SERVICES: Software Testing (QA) and Business System Analysis: Training Classes and Placement Assistance in Charlotte. Please Contact 704-806-8907 for details. Tutor Available: Experienced Math Tutor in South Charlotte, through Middle School. E-mail jagannathanc@yahoo.com or call 630-483-1778. Tax Returns: Federal & State Tax Preparation with e-filing, Accounting and Bookkeeping Services for Individuals, Self-employed, Partnerships & Scorporations. Call Mahesh Patel, EA (704) 799-6377, e-mail: masupatel4@yahoo.com Priest Services: Astrology: Pass down from generation to generations. Specialized in all Poojas, PerformWedding, Vratha, Homa, Japa, Navagraha Pooja… Call 704-564-2615 or 256-337-6458 Nanny Available: Experienced nanny available in Charlotte area (university), w/ experience from 1 month old through 6 years. Fluent in Hindi and Gujarati, beginner in English. Contact 704-886-8177 Independent Balaji Priest: All kinds of puja, havan, katha, weddings, graha shanti, funeral services & Shraadh. In Hindi, English & Tamil. 704.877.6320 or 704-545-7220 or e-mail: vbbalaji@hotmail.com. Foreign Accent Modification: Your speech is your "vocal resume." Speak English clearly and with confidence. Individual tutorials with certified speech specialists at Triangle Speech Services. www.trianglespeech.com. South Indian Priest: Sastriji is an independent priest Call for Pujas, Gruhapravesh, Weddings, Multi-lingual, Vedic traditional priestly services, etc. Call 704-625-7578 or 704-231-0751. Email: sastrigal2003@yahoo.com Dholi For Hire: Plays the Dhol (drum) for any occasion! Classes Available! Barat, Doli, Graduation, Birthdays, Baby Showers & any other festivity. Affordable rates! Call Arpan Bhandari 704-843-7202 or email: arpandholi@yahoo.com Gujarati Priest: Devendra Dave Independent priest. Ganesh, Randal, Navratri, Diwali’s Laxmi & Sharda Pujas, Satyanarayan Katha, Weddings, Vastu, Baby Showers, Funeral Seva. Call Daveji 704-780-3563. God Blessings to All. Ribald Farms Nursery & Florist: Specializes in Indian wedding reception design and floral arrangements. For more information contact Shawna Turner at 803-328-2266 or www.rockhillflowers.com 123

Mehandi (Henna): Award winning artist from Jaipur, India specializing in wedding parties (Bride & attendants). Satisfaction guaranteed regarding design, color & price. Please call: Krishna Priya Dasi 919-824-7734 EMail: krsnapriyad@hotmail.com Computer Consulting: Assistance with software installation, set-up, formatting, back-up, troubleshooting and more. Very reasonable rates. 704-619-2358 Pari Beauty In Matthews, NC: Threading, Waxing, Facials, Bleaching & Much More! 20 years of experience with Special Deals & Great Service. For Appointment Call: 704-846-7912 Tutor Available: Experienced Math, Physics, Chemistry tutor for middle, high school, IB, AP courses (including AP Statistics). Cary, Raleigh, Durham area. Call 704-497-2639 Home Daycare Available in Cornelius, north of Charlotte. contact: 704-895-4995 Neeta’s Beauty Parlor: Charlotte area open 7 days a week. Full service. Please call for appointment. 704-968-0270 CHILDCARE AVAILABLE in a nurturing,secure home daycare close to Ballantyne area. NC Credentials, CPR First Aid Certitified. Enriching & fun learning activities, Spanish Lessons. NEWBORNS WELCOME! Rate $170 per week. Contact Gladys 704-541-9235

Saathee Classifieds: Business ads are $25 & personal ads are $15 up to 25 words. Ask about upgrades to color and box. Submit classifieds online at saathee.com Deadline is the 20th. We accept credit cards and checks. Ads are posted on saathee.com at no extra charge with paid print listing. Feel free to call us with any questions.

704.527.7570 Fax: 704.527.7590 Saatheemag@hotmail.com www.saathee.com PO Box 11468, Charlotte, NC 28220

Writers & Photographers We are always looking for contributors. If you have an interesting tale to tell, an opinionated opinion or just want to get something off your ches, write to us. We may publish your piece in a future issue of Saathee. Children are encouraged to submit poems, short stories or other original writings. Photographers contact us if you have taken interesting photos in South Asia saatheemag@hotmail.com

March 2012

Index of Advertisers

MyTripFare (Travel agent) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113 Nagpal, Sunil (MetLife Financial Services) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 Nationwide Ins. (Maqsood Khan) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115 Nazar Television . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88 Neeta's Beauty Parlor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107 Oza, Rishi (Immigration Legal Services) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103 Pardasani, Kamlesh (Real Estate - CharlotteArea.com) . . . . .77 Passage To India - Fine Indian Cuisine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Patel Brothers (Charlotte) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 Patel, Champa (Real Estate) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109 Patel, Mrugesh (Law Offices) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115 Payal Groceries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Poplai, Deepak (White Insurance) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85 PP Tax & Accounting Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77 Raj D Batra (Kamera Art Photo & Video) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125 Rajbhog Foods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Rajdeep Mandap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 Rajdeep Video & Photography (Ramesh Panjabi) . . . . . . . . . .30 Rajesh Jyotishi (Shalin Financial Services Inc.) . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Ravindra Dave Pandit (Religious Services) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109 Religious Ceremonies (Swaminath Sastrigal) . . . . . . . . . . . . .79 Roop Beauty (Pooja Patel) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77 S S Photography Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 Saathee Subscription Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113 Saathee.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68 Saffron Restaurant and Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Sarvaga Studios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60 Shah, Anish (Real Estate) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26&27 Shah, Kirti (CPA - Sepa Consulting) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 Shining Star Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Shukla, Kirit (Music Lession & Band) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109 Shyama Beauty Parlour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Situl Indian Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99 Skynet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 Sleep Inn (Charlotte) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103 Soni Family Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107 South Char. Endocrinology (Kanakasabai Narasimhan, MD)58 Spice South . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79 State Farm Ins (Matt Woodford) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79 Summit Plastic & Hand Surgery (Dr. Mohan Pillai) . . . . . . . .75 Swift Telecom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121 Tactical Wealth Management Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Thakkar, Beena (Realty) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79 The Blue Taj . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 Transportation (Diamond Cab) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 Travel Universe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Travelinks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111 Ttravel Guru . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 UroGender Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103 Usha Decor (Wedding Planning & Decor) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 Vivaah Mela Greensboro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Vyas Travels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103 Weldone Beauti Parlour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 White Horse Weddings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101 Woodlands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 Worldwide travels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 Xpress Money . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113 Yogi Cash & Carry (Indian Food & Spices) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71

Bhindi Jewellers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Punjabi Unlimited (Baishaki Mela) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 A & V Satellites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Aarohan Music Recital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Abacus Math . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 Access Realty & Funding (Chandravadan Shah) . . . . . . . . . .35 Ali & Sons Car Care (Formerly Rapid Car Care) . . . . . . . . . . .16 All Car Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Anil Bedi & Associates PC (CPA & Consultants) . . . . . . . . . .63 Apna Travels (Morrisville) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63 Artistic Eyebrows by Sejal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93 Ashwini Kathak Dance Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 Asiana Fusion.Sushi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 Aura And More... Boutique (Ladies Fashions) . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Baba Ramdev Health Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 BallantyneTech Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109 Bashyam & Spiro LLP (Immigration Law) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Bethel Christian Fellowship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99 Bharat Bazaar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 Bipin & Smita Parekh (Real Estate) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125 Blooming Buds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Bollywood Bites (Restaurant) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 Bombay Grille Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69 British American School of Charlotte . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 Brow Bar (henna, hair, make up, threading...) . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 Carolina Law Group (Monty Desai) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 CaroMont Medical Group (Dr. Manu Patel) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93 Cary Photo & Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 Chai Pani (Restaurant - Ashville, NC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87 Challa Law Offices, PLC (Immigration) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 Charlotte Music School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 Chawpaty Food (Catering) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111 Chiro-Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 Concha, David - Immigration Attorney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85 Copper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 County South Realty & Business Brokers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87 Cricket Gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111 Dances of India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 Delhi Palace (Columbia, SC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 Dentist (Dr. Prashant Rao - Cedar Walk Dentistry) . . . . . . . .99 Desai Desai Accounting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 Desai, Rajarshi (CPA, PLLC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 Dish Network (Viren Mehta) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95 DJ Hangama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 DJ Kenz (Kenz Desai) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125 DJ Desi (Amit Vasi) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 DJ Don (David Pandoria) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101 DJ Lalit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 DJ Ravi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87 Elegant Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85 Eshaan Jewelers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Fairview Home Mortgage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89 Festival Of India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105 Flavors Of India (Uptown Charlotte) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 Friends Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101 Fu Lin Asian Cuisine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Gaming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Gandhi International Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Grover Medical Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58 H2 Laser & Skin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 Henna Mehendi Artists (Bhavini Patel) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 Henna's Dulhan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109 Hindu Center Charlotte (Events) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64&65 Hotel For Sale (Patel, Akshat) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 Huntington Learning Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 iFuturistics Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .126 India Fest (Nuv Yug) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 India Grocers (Charlotte) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 India Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97 Indian Grocery (Columbia, SC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75 Indian Performing Arts Association of Charlotte . . . . . . . . . .29 Jaipur Indian Restaurant (Charlotte) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 Jay Swaminarayan Tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 K & M Accountant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 K.B. Zaveree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Kaya Designs Boutique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 KD Photographics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89 Kohinoor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Kumar, Kokila (Real Estate - Allen Tate) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93 Legacy Jewelers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .127 Mahabazar.com Travels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 Maharani Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93 Malani Jewelers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .128 Malaya Kitchen (Charlotte) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 Masti Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107 Mathur, Gitanjali (Allen Tate Realtors) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 MyShadi Bridal Expo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Saathee.com

Puzzle Solutions

124

March 2012

The SouthEast's Hardest Working & Most Creative Indian DJ

KAMERA ART Professional

International DJ & Hit Music Producer

Kenz Desai

VIDEOPRODUCTIONS & PHOTOGRAPHY

FA M I LY D J N U M B E R O N E !

Exceeding Expectation

Featured in the world's leading media

IT'S NOT JUST A WEDDING VIDEO IT'S A MOVIE ABOUT YOUR LIFE, YOUR WEDDING, YOUR STORY!

Mehndi, Raas-Garba, Baraat,Weddings, Receptions, Graduations, Parties. Very Reasonable rates.

704.957.0786

Phone: (919) 559-4294

icapturememory@gmail.com

thekenz@hotmail.com

www.icapturememory.com

B I P I N PA R E K H R E A LT Y, L L C CLOSING COORDINATOR

Bipin Parekh

Owner / Broker / Realtor. Licensed in NC / SC / Georgia 704.841.9318(H)

Smita Parekh, MS, RD, LD

704.608.8469 (cell)

E-Mail: bparekh@carolina.rr.com

* Realtor with 25+ years of experience

TOP PRODuCER FOR: HOMEBUYER

*ReBAte* up to

2%4

PRICE

1%, 1.5%, 2%

Shea, Ryan, Ryland, Pulte, KB, Niblock, John Weiland Homes

704.608.2191 (cell) smt_parekh@yahoo.com

Broker / Manager CHARLOTTE, NC

Sridhar Janakiraman

Broker/Realtor Licensed in NC/SC 978.590.7768 (C) / 704.771.1957 (F) SJIyer.NC@gmail.com

Rebate Towards:

• Price Reduction • Closing Costs • Discount Points • Temp Buydowns

Catherine E. Janakiraman

*buyer must take lenders approval to use “rebate” (in HUD1)

Hiring: Realtors / Brokers (NC/SC/GA) * 100% Commission Paid *

*You pay per transaction fee (reduced) + monthly “ad” fee *$300 / Transaction + $50 / advertising fee w/photo *$300 / Transaction + $30 / advertising fee w/name

P. Broker / Realtor Phone: 704.771.1811, Fax: 704.771.1957 Email: CESIyer@gmail.com RALEIGH, CARY, NC

Dharmesh J. Patel (Broker / Realtor) 919.302.0821 (cell) DharmeshPatel.Realtor@gmail.com

w w w . r e b a t e F o r H o m e B u y e r. c o m Saathee.com

125

March 2012