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Vol.12 I No. 3 I OCTOBER 2014 I FREE

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Festival season to consolidate multicultural ethos By Neeraj Nanda

elbourne: It’s come again and will keep coming. The last three months of the year are all set to dazzle with the festive season! 2014 is no exception. Big and small events cum celebrations are ready to go. Victoria’s multicultural atmosphere will no doubt, add to the festivities. Different communities will mix with each other and exchange gifts and sweets. Eid has just been over and Diwali is on our door step. Some of you will be going overseas and celebrating with friends and relatives. Those who are here the fun will not be less. And this season we will once more pledge to maintain respect for each other’s faith’s and culture’s. This is the best bet to preserve multicultural Victoria and Australia. Diwali (also spelled Devali in certain regions) or Deepawali, popularly known as the "festival of lights", is an important festival in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism, celebrated for different reasons, occurring between mid-October and mid-November each year. For Hindus, Diwali is one of the

most important festivals of the year and is celebrated in families by performing Laxmi puja and traditional cultural activities together in homes. For Jains, Diwali marks the attainment of moksha or nirvana by Mahavira in 527 BC. For Sikhs, Diwali is celebrated as Bandhi Chhor Diwas (The celebration of Freedom), and celebrates the release from prison of the sixth guru, Guru Hargobind, held captive by Mughal Emperor in the Gwalior Fort in 1619. In recent times, in India, Australia and other countries, Diwali is celebrated by people of all communities irrespective of region or religion. It reflects the multicultural dimension which unites people into humankind. Diwali melas (fairs) are held in all prominent Australian towns by Indian organisations and attended by people of all faiths and communities. It is also known as the ‘Indian X-Mas’ to many Australians. The name "Diwali" is a contraction of "Deepavali", which translates into "row of lamps". Diwali involves the lighting of small clay lamps (diyas or dipas) filled with

oil to signify the triumph of good over evil. But these days electric lights light up homes and offices. During Diwali, all the celebrants wear new clothes and share sweets and snacks with family members and friends. Diwali as per belief commemorates the return of Lord Rama, along with Sita and Lakshmana, from his 14-yearlong exile and vanquishing the demon-king Ravana. In joyous celebration of the return of their king, the people of Ayodhya, the Capital of Rama, illuminated the kingdom with earthen diyas and by bursting firecrackers. The festival starts with Dhanteras on which most Indian business communities begin their financial year. The second day of the festival, Naraka Chaturdasi, marks the vanquishing of the demon Naraka by Lord Krishna and his wife Satyabhama. Amavasya, the third day of Deepawali, marks the worship of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth in her most benevolent mood, fulfilling the wishes of her devotees. Amavasya also tells the story of Lord Vishnu, who in his dwarf

incarnation vanquished the Bali, and banished him to Patala. It is on the fourth day of Deepawali, Kartika Shudda Padyami, that Bali went to patala and took the reins of his new kingdom in there. The fifth day is referred to as Yama Dvitiya (also called Bhai Dooj), and on this day sisters invite their brothers to their homes. Meanwhile, in Melbourne the festival season has begun and the cultural scene has been picking up. Ganesh Chaturthi and Janamashtmi have just passed and much more is coming. Big Diwali fairs are taking place soon! The AIII Diwali Fair will be at the Sandown Racecourse on Sunday 19 October and the Celebrate India is organising one at the Federation Square on Saturday 25 October. Diwali fairs are also planned in other suburbs and by community organisations. Many good movies are also gearing up for release in cinemas during this season. Shopping around will also be great fun. Christmas and New Year eve festivities and parties are also not far away. Exciting and fun filled days lie ahead. The

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The name "Diwali" is a contraction of "Deepavali", which translates into "row of lamps". Diwali involves the lighting of small clay lamps (diyas or dipas) filled with oil to signify the triumph of good over evil. community will be active and enjoy the season in a typical multicultural atmosphere. South Asia Times (SAT) will bring you all the reports from overseas and here of the fun filled days ahead. We at SAT wish you all the best of enjoyment and entertainment to you and your family during the season.

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Campaign against unlawful payments for 457 visas

BY SAT News Desk

elbourne, 3 September: The country has launched a national campaign to clamp down on those making illegal payments to facilitate a 457 visa. The Assistant Minister for Immigration and Border Protection, Senator the Hon. Michaelia Cash, launched a national campaign to investigate allegations of unauthorised payment to visa sponsors in return for visas. Minister Cash said although the overwhelming majority of people

do the right thing, it is a small minority who don't abide by their obligations or attempt to defraud our migration programmes. "Visa fraud is not acceptable and anyone who engages in this type of behaviour will face serious penalties," Minister Cash said. "The campaign will involve an initial assessment of up to 100 visa sponsors who are subject to allegations that they have been in some way connected to receiving payment for arranging sponsorship for individuals under the 457 visa programme."

The public education component of the campaign will educate 457 visa sponsors about their obligations and remind visa holders of their rights and responsibilities. "All allegations of inappropriate behaviour by a visa holders or sponsors are taken seriously - if a sponsor is found to have failed their sponsorship obligations, the department takes appropriate action," Minister Cash said. A business that sponsors a visa holder under false pretences may also be committing other offences, such as providing false or misleading information or engaging in misleading or deceptive conduct. “Visa holders who enter into contrived employment relationships for migration purposes may also be guilty of fraud related offences and/or not meet immigration requirements, including the genuineness criterion,” a media release says. For more information go to www.immi.gov.au/Work. People with information about suspected immigration fraud are encouraged to call the Immigration Dob-In Line on 1800 009 623 or visit the department's website: www.immi. gov.au/Help/Pages/immigrationdob-in-service.aspx —SAT News Service

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One year of Air India’s down under dream By Neeraj Nanda

elbourne: India’s flag carrier Air India started its Australian operations a year back with big fanfare. There were launches and a massive dinner party here. The enthusiasm was visible and hopes were high. Since then the Air India has gained market share with its daily Dreamliner flights on the Delhi-Sydney-Melbourne route. But there are worries. It has been losing a lot on this route. Air India was formally launched here a year ago after 16 years. At a glittering dinner event at The Sofitel, the ‘Maharaja’ came back to Australia with Red and White Wine, Beer and soft drinks, followed by a largely attended function addressed by VIPs including the Air India Chairman and Managing Director, Mr. Rohit Nandan. In his address he emphasized the growing ties between the two countries and its further consolidation with the resumption of Air India flights to Australia. But after one year there are worries. It has been losing a lot on this route. The Business Standard in May this year quoted sources in Air India that the airlines cumulative loss since the launch of 787’s services stand at Rupees 80 crore. So, the daily loss was around Rupees 70 lakh a day. The latest figures are not available as the

Air India in India did not reply to our E-mail asking for its latest financial and other details of the Australia operations. The Air India office in Melbourne, in fact, directed us to contact their India office with our questions. Meanwhile, Air India in July officially became a member of the Star Alliance, taking its seat at the table alongside 26 other global airlines including Singapore Airlines, United, Thai and Air New Zealand.

India's Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju described the move as "a new beginning for Air India" and one which could help the ailing national carrier return to profitability by increased alliance-based bookings. Star Alliance, a global grouping of airlines, had suspended its invitation to Air India in 2011 but renewed it in December after a unanimous vote against the backdrop of improved operating conditions in the Indian aviation sector. Entering the Star

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Many Indian origin people in Melbourne and Sydney are happy to fly direct to India. Alliance means Air India passengers will be able to use Star’s facilities like airport lounges, fly on a network of 21,900 daily flights to 1,328 airports in 195 countries and redeem air miles on airlines such as Deutsche Lufthansa AG, Singapore Airlines Ltd and United Airlines Inc. Many Indian origin people in Melbourne and Sydney are happy to fly direct to India. This, in fact, is handy in emergency situations. Overall Air India losses have come down. The national carrier’s total revenues improved almost 10 per cent to Rs 16,130 crore in 2012-13 from Rs 14,714 crore a year ago. Net loss came down by Rs 2,261 crore, while its EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation) improved by Rs 2,256 crore in 2012-13. The competition to the Maharaja on the Australia route is fierce. Its main competitors are the Singapore Airlines and Malaysian Airlines. A leading Indian travel agent who did not want to be named says, “Air India performance is picking up and it’s doing well.” “If you travel in Air India your perception will change,” he says.

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Australian- Indian money laundering network disrupted By Neeraj Nanda

elbourne, 26 September: Australia and India have disrupted ‘a sophisticated transnational money laundering network’ operating between the two countries on 25 September. It resulted in 13 search warrants being conducted across Australia, with a further nine search warrants conducted by the Indian Enforcement Directorate (IED) in India. “The joint investigation involved members from the Australian Federal Police’s (AFP) Operation Zanella, Australian Crime Commission (ACC), South Australian Police (SAPOL) and the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC), in addition to the work undertaken by the IED”, says a Australian Federal Police media release. A 39-year-old man from Ingle Farm, South Australia, was arrested and charged with dealing in proceeds of crime and a 41-year-old man from Tapping, Western Australia was arrested and charged for dealing in property reasonably

suspected of being proceeds of crime. “It will be alleged the joint investigation has identified an extensive international Alternative Remittance Services (ARS) network involved in laundering millions of dollars out of Australia on behalf of serious and organised crime. The

ARS network is alleged to have used Australian bank accounts, corporate structures and complicit remitting agents to facilitate their illegal laundering activities” the media release says. The Director of IED commended the active close cooperation of the Australian

authorities in dismantling an important international money laundering structure. “In ongoing bilateral cooperation between the Enforcement Directorate and the Australian Federal Police, a major crackdown was successfully made in Amritsar and Delhi on a suspected hawala and money laundering

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The Director of IED commended the active close cooperation of the Australian authorities in dismantling an important international money laundering structure. syndicate linked with narcotic drugs proceeds of crime,” he said. The investigation is ongoing and police have not ruled out further search warrants and arrests.

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ESOS review views end 31 October By SAT News Desk

elbourne: The government has initiated a review of the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) outlined in a discussion paper which is now available for public comment. The aim of the review is to cut red tape and deliver substantial benefits to education institutions, including a significant reduction in the compliance and reporting burden. The discussion paper is based on consultations with stakeholders held between March and May 2014 on ways to improve and deregulate the ESOS framework. Minister for Education, the Hon Christopher Pyne MP, said the reform measures outlined in the discussion paper would deliver substantial benefits to education institutions, including a significant reduction in the compliance and reporting burden. “ESOS is unique in the world in providing protection for international students and while there is strong support for ESOS, stakeholders also identified a number of areas where its effectiveness could be improved without compromising quality,” Mr Pyne said. “ESOS will continue to feature world-class protection mechanisms but can be more streamlined and simpler to ensure

it does not impose unnecessary and duplicative obligations on education institutions already operating effectively in domestic education. “The Government will continue to work with stakeholders to refine the proposed reforms to ensure they take account of the diversity of education institutions offering their services to international students.”

Australia’s international education industry is worth around $15 billion annually and growing. For the year-todate at June 2014, enrolments across all education sectors increased by 11.5 per cent compared to the same period in 2013. New enrolments have increased by 20.7 per cent over the same period. Written comments on the discussion

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paper are due by Friday, 31 October 2014 to ESOS-Policy@education.gov. au. Comments on other issues or matters that will support the effective implementation of any changes are also welcome. The discussion paper can be accessed at - http://docs.education. gov.au/system/files/doc/other/reform_ of_the_esos_framework_-_discussion_ paper_-_september_2014_0.pdf.

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Chef Harpal Singh to launch Sabrini food range at the AIII Diwali Mela 2014 By our reporter

Talking to SAT, Raja, CEO Sabi Foods said, “I wanted to give something to elbourne: Australia’s First this country specifically designed for Chef-Designed Indian food the people here.” range is all set to hit the The Sabrini range is produced markets. Chef Harpal Singh maintaining high standards of will launch Sabrini food range at the AIII production, using the finest Diwali Mela 2014. Crafted by super Chef ingredients and ensuring authentic Harpal Singh’s cuisine expertise, Sibrini flavours. It offers an easy and products will be a true celebration of convenient way to put together Indian food. flavourful Indian meals in just Dubbed the ‘Energy Chef of India’, minutes, with no room for errors. Harpal is loved for his relentless passion For years now Sabi Foods has to add deliciously creative twists to the been satisfying Australia’s hunger for best of Indian dishes. He is also the man great ethnic food that is also high on behind the successful TV cooking shows, quality and taste, and making Pattu a ‘Turban Tadka’ and ‘Singh and Cook’ Household brand in Indian Homes in that led him to become ‘Television’s Australia. Now Sabi Foods is bringing Most Admired Chef’ in 2012. Not only to Australia yet another fabulous has he written and co-authored several food brand - Sabrini - an offering of cookbooks, he also came up with the Indian foods that has been designed unique concept of ‘Ayurvedic Cuisine.’ by India’s super popular Celeb Chef, Australia will now get to discover Harpal Singh Sokhi. Chef Harpal, in fact, will help you the amazing tastes of India through the unbeatable culinary hits that Chef Harpal discover the pleasure of ‘Happy has created for Sabini. From mouthCooking!’ through Sabrini. Watch out watering Indian Masala Mixes and Spice for him at the AIII Diwali Mela 2014 at Blends to ‘Indian Tiffin’ – a range of the Sandown Racecourse, Springwale Indian combo meals. on 19 October, 2014.

ACTU condemns East-West Link plan for foreign workers on 457 visas By News Desk

elbourne, 8 October: Unions are shocked and disappointed at reports that foreign workers on 457 visas will be used to build one of the biggest infrastructure projects in Victoria’s history. ACTU President Ged Kearney said the news came just a day after Victorian Premier Denis Napthine announced his local jobs plan and promised that the $6.8 billion project would be a boon for young workers and apprentices that would set them up with skills for the rest of their lives. “It is extraordinary that just a day after Premier Napthine promised thousands of new jobs for Victorians that the first job we’ve seen advertised is one to coordinate foreign workers,” Ms Kearney said. “The ink is barely dry on the contract and there’s already a job advertised for an Immigration Adviser to manage 457 visa

applications for the EastWest Link project. “It’s outrageous unemployment is at around 6.8 per cent in Victoria and just over 6 per cent nationally. “This project is being paid for by both the Victorian and Federal Governments – how can they allow temporary workers to be brought in from overseas when there are Victorian and Australian workers desperate for jobs?” Ms Kearney said it is

further proof the 457 visa scheme is deeply flawed. “Unions have been calling for a Senate Inquiry into the 457 visa scheme and this disgraceful news highlights exactly why a Senate Inquiry is needed,” said Ms Kearney. “The Abbott Government constantly defends the 457 visa program by claiming employers are required to genuinely look for local workers first – this job advertisement clearly demonstrates what a farce

that is. “The East-West Link project is an opportunity to provide decent jobs for Australian workers at a time when unemployment is sky high and many families are struggling with the rising cost of living.” Ms Kearney said Unions have always maintained that employers must show they have genuinely tried to recruit local workers before looking overseas, while employers who do recruit workers on 457 visas must

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invest in training local workers as well. “Australians want a Government with a plan to create jobs and strengthen the economy – but the Abbott Government’s answer is to make it easier for big business to bring in foreign workers instead. “Australia’s migration program should not be at the beck and call of big business – a Senate Inquiry is the only way to get to the bottom of this Government’s mess.”

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VTCA guide launched for new migrants M By our community reporter

elbourne: The community became richer recently with the launching of ‘A Complete Guide to Asylum Seekers, Refugees & Newly Arrived Migrants in Australia’ on 24 September. The Guide fills a long felt need to fill the gaps in information for the newly arrived in Australia. The much needed initiative came from the ‘Victorian Tamil Cultural Association Inc.’ (VTCA) which put in lots of labour to prepare the Guide. In this effort the Association was supported by the City of Greater Dandenong. The event held at the Dandenong Council Chambers, saw many prominent speakers and many from the community attending it. Mayor of Greater Dandenong, Councillor Jim Memeti launched the Guide and addressed those present and spoke about the excellent work done by the ‘Victorian Tamil Cultural Association Inc.’, in preparing the Guide. “The booklet such as this is a very welcome addition to the resources and support that is provided by Greater Dandenong for asylum seekers, refugees and newly-arrived

migrants to Australia,” he said. The event was also addressed by Councillor Roz Blades, Sankara Subramanian, President of the Victorian Tamil Cultural Association, Wiki Wickiramasingham, Living

Treasurer of the City of Greater Dandenong, MC Lynette While, Acting Director Community Services, City of Greater Dandenong among others. Copies of the Guide were then

Happy Diwali

presented to all prominent from the community and the City of Greater Dandenong. The Guide is specially compiled for the benefit of residents in the South East Region of Melbourne.

May this Diwali bring you happiness & prosperity

Authorised by D. Andrews, Parliament House, Melbourne.

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Indian conservation group’s legal challenge to Adani’s Australian coal mine By SAT News Desk

elbourne: The battle to have a sustainable future has taken a new turn. The Indian environmental group, the Conservation Action Trust (CAT), has challenged in the Land Court of Queensland to the approval of Indian giant Adani’s 60 million tonne per annum Carmichael coalmine, what is thought to be the first such challenge mounted by overseas activists. The proposed project, planned for Queensland’s Galilee Basin, would be Australia’s largest coal mine. The objection had its directions hearing in the Land Court on 9 October 2014. CAT is being represented in the Land Court by Environmental Justice Australia. CAT says the approval of the Carmichael mine is not in the public interest, and is contrary to the principles of Ecologically Sustainable Development. Talking to SAT from Mumbai via Skype, Debi Goenka, executive trustee of the CAT said, “Adani has a bad environment record in India. They have violated environment laws here. “These violations are recorded in

The proposed project, planned for Queensland’s Galilee Basin, would be Australia’s largest coal mine.

the Sunita Narayan report available in the Environment Ministry website,” he said. Debi Goenka says: “We believe that Queensland should not approve Adani’s mine. The coal from Carmichael, when burnt in India, threatens the health and livelihoods of poor rural people in India.” “These people can’t afford the

electricity that will be generated – all they’ll get will be damage to their health and the air, water, land and natural resource base on which their survival depends." Mr Goenka continued. Commenting on the current Indian situation, Mr. Goenka said, “Because of the change of government in New

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Delhi it has become tough to take on Adani, because of his proximity to the new government. But Adani’s environment violations started during the previous Manmohan Singh government.” “CAT’s objection to the Carmichael mine is the first instance of an international party objecting to a coal mine in Australia.” said Brendan Sydes, CEO of Environmental Justice Australia. —SAT News Service.

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COMMUNITY

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Unforgettable musical experience of East-West synthesis

By our community reporter

Makhawana (wearing a red curta) who was to play the Tabla was near the Box Office elbourne: Northcote and guided us towards the is not an easy place Hall. It was a mixed crowd of if you go there in Australians and Indians eagerly your car on a Friday. waiting for the musical evening Searching for a parking place to start. can be tough. I was with a friend The concerto for Sarod, and his family in their car but it Tabla, Percussion Strings was an exceptional day. The car by Nicolas Buff and soloists got parking near the Northcote Saby Bhattachariya (Sarod) Town Hall, where we were to and Girish Makhwana (Tabla) see an unusual but mesmerising succeeded in giving an excellent music concert – East-West synthesis of individual music experience across contrasting Bollywood Music Revival & musical languages. It was Sarod Tabla Concerto, a rather longish name. Our friend Girish an experimental work with

orchestration of compositions from the Indian classical solo performance tradition, development of melodic and rhythmic themes through composition and improvising, allows space for the expression of raga and tala as practiced in Indian classical music. This was the first half of the event and next came the Bollywood section. No doubt, after a classical experience the Bollywood classics section (second half) was a riddle till it started. It was exceptionally well done and classical Hindi cinema

songs sung by the vocal duo Samrakshana & Keshav Ramachandran. They sang eight songs accompanied by the Thai 3 and musicians from the Preston Symphony Orchestra and the output took one to the 50s, 60s and 70s of the golden days of Bollywood songs. Though all songs were good but I liked ‘Awaz Deke Humein Tum Bulao’ from Professor (1962) and ‘Kuhu Kuhu Bole Koyaliya’ (1957). The song with lyrics by Girish Makwana, ‘Naina’ was also good. One has to congratulate all the names associated with

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One has to congratulate all the names associated with the event for its success. Each one of the musicians needs to be commended for their performance. the event for its success. Each one of the musicians needs to be commended for their performance. Partners in the event were The Boite and the City of Darebin. Media partners were South Asia Times (SAT) and The Indian Weekly. Representative of Indian Link was also present. Compares Anita Barar and Sahil Saluja did a good job. In all it was a musical experience not to be forgotten.

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Melbourne Durbar

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By Desi Oz

‘Vibrant’ visit

delegation from Gujarat led by a top bureaucrat (Mr. Pankaj Kumar, IAS, Managing Director of Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation Limited) consisting of business persons and Vice Chancellors was recently in Australia, to promote the ‘Vibrant Gujarat – 2015’ scheduled in January next year. They visited Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth to promote the event. During their stay in Melbourne their schedule included apart from official meetings a road show (with Austrade) in the city and a ticketed dinner evening organised by the Gujarati Association of Victoria at the Gaylord Indian

restaurant. Addressing the gathering Mr. Pankaj Kumar, invited Australian companies to come and do business in Gujarat. A planned power point presentation failed to take off. The local Indian/South Asian media was not invited at the event. A planned meeting with the Victorian Labour Party in the Parliament was cancelled as another meeting was fixed up with the Rio Tinto officials at the same time. Later, a smaller delegation met a few Labour Party leaders including the Leader of Opposition, Mr. Daniel Andrews, and the rest went for the Rio Tinto meeting. The delegation also met members of the ‘Friends of BJP’ here.

Ronak Trinjana Di- 2014

his was an excellent Punjabi cultural show with Gidha, Bhangra, Sammi, Jhumar and Malwai Gidha organised by the Punjabi Folk Arts. The only ladies event took place at the Springvale Town Hall

was a big success. The hall was full and the people enjoying their culture. The Gidha competition was the highlight of the event and many teams participated. Prizes and trophies were given away to the winners and participants.

Intaj Khan new AIBC Vic President

r. Intaj Khan, businessman and Wyndham Councillor has taken over as the new President of the Australia India Business Council (AIBC) Victoria. Mr. Intaj took over as President after the former President, Mr. Ravi Bhatia unexpectedly resigned. A special meeting on

September 19 elected the new President and a new team. Others appointed were Mr. Gurdeep Singh Dhillon as Vice President, Mr. Gurpal Singh as General Secretary, Mr. Sam Alamiki as Sport Chair person and Mr.Carlos Quiroga, Mr. John Perera and Mr. Manoj Kumar as committee members respectively.

Details of the N-accord?

he Indian community here has welcomed the recent visit of Australian PM, Tony Abbott, to India and the signing of the nuclear pact which is likely to initiate Uranium exports to India. But what are the details of the agreement? A Google search reveals nothing. The official websites of the two governments’ also do not say anything about it. Only recently a nuclear accord with Japan could not take place because India refused to accept Japanese demands. So, what did India and Australia agree in the nuclear agreement. A story in ‘The Hindu’ headlined, ‘IndiaAustralia N-deal: devil is in the detail’ says, “According to some experts, if Australia insists on conditions like those put by Japan, such as no reprocessing of spent fuel and compulsory return of components

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supplied in case the country carries out a nuclear test, they could be deal breakers.” An informed media person in India says, “Apparently they have not decided the details. It was a trust building or a PR exercise for something bigger in the defence and security field. Already the first AustraliaIndia maritime exercise will be held in January next year. The Hindu also reveals that only recently Uranium has been found by ONGC in Assam though it has refused to tell the size of the find. India operates 20 small reactors at six sites, with a capacity of 4,780 MW or 3.14 per cent of the country’s total power capacity.Indigenous uranium is used by 10 nuclear power reactors with an installed capacity of 2,840 MW. Uranium imported by India comes mainly comes from Kazakhstan and Russia.

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Godrej Properties launches pan India projects for Melbourne Indians

By News Desk

elbourne: Godrej Properties and Ramon Consulting and Financial Services, are all set to offer a big real estate bonanza in India for Melbourne Indians. With price just starting $36,000 in Ahmedabad, multiple financing options including NRI finance by major Indian Banks there has been no better time than now to invest in India. Godrej Properties is having all day Road Show (10am -6pm) on

2nd November 2014 Sunday) at Hotel IBIS Glen Waverly where their PAN India projects including Ahmadabad , Gurgaon , Pune , Bangalore , Chennai, Panvel , Mumbai will be on display with special offers and financing options being organised by Ramon Consulting & Financial Services and Godrej Properties with specialists available on the day from India and Sydney. Gurudutt Shenoy , International Marketing Advisor for Godrej Properties says, “ Business sentiment in India is positive

EVENT PARTNER

In Asociation with

SUNDAY 02 NOV 2014 FEDERATION SQUARE MELBOURNE 12 NOON - 10 PM

SATURDAY 01 NOV 2014 WORKSHOP AND GALA DINNER RYDGES HOTEL, MELBOURNE PLATINUM SPONSORS

Design by: Chit, NNN Media 08272014

Embassy of Nepal, Canberra

GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

SUPPORTERS

under this new Government as seen by the resurging SENSEX .With a huge impetus on infrastructure spending . Billions of dollars of foreign investment is expected to flow into India for Smart Cities development and Infrastructure spending driving a huge demand for housing. With seven major companies with interests in real estate, FMCG, industrial engineering, appliances, furniture, security and agri care - to name a few - turnover crosses 3.2 billion dollars. Presence in more than 60 countries ensures that customers are at home with Godrej no matter where they go. Over 500million people use a Godrej Product every single day. Godrej Properties brings the Godrej Group philosophy of innovation and excellence to the real estate industry. The company is currently developing landmark projects in 12 cities across India. Established in 1990, Godrej Properties Limited is the first real estate company to have ISO certification. With projects that span across the country, the company's upcoming development covers over 8 million square meters. Ramon Consulting and Financial Services (Ramon) are the authorised and exclusive channel partners with Godrej Properties to promote their products in Victoria. Rakesh and Monica Raizada being a popular couple in Victoria committed to help the community with Ramon’s expertise. They have established “Ramon Helps” to service and support the

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live music by SABIN RAI & THE BAND MILAN LAMA LOCAL ARTISTS

Event by

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State Coordination Council (VIC) in Asociation With Nepalese Association of Victoria Consulate General of Victoria, Embassy of Nepal (Canberra) & all Community Organizations www.nrn.org.au

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Godrej Properties brings the Godrej Group philosophy of innovation and excellence to the real estate industry. community providing one stop shop for all personal, professional, banking, finance and spiritual needs absolutely free to the community. Monica is committed to support the community particularly domestic violence victims and stands against any social evils prevailing in the society is representing various forums, not for profit organisations and associations. Rakesh is on the other hand is financial and management guru guiding and assisting individuals, businesses and corporates to help achieve financial independence and wealth creation faster free of charge. Ramon joining hands with Godrej Properties brings more credibility for the people who wish to invest in India for capitalising on the golden opportunity due to stable NaMo government, vibrant Gujarat and Incredible India with amazing growth opportunities across India. —SAT News Service

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Your Community Marriage Celebrant • • • • • • •

Marriage registration Notice of intended marriage Overseas Registration Marriage - Notice Special services to overseas students Assist passport applications, overseas visa Interpreting, translating and Secretarial services

For Information contact N.R. Wickiramasingham. CMC JP. Mobile: 0404 059 231 Phone: (03) 9794 7942 Fax: (03) 9794 0414 Email: wickiram@hotmail.com 34 James Street, Dandenong, Victoria 3175 Authorised by the Commenwealth of Australia Reg: A4978

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Bollywood films in the last quarter of 2014

Happy New Year

Farah Khan reunites with her favourite actor Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone in Happy New Year. The film also stars Abhishek Bachchan, Boman Irani, Sonu Sood and Vivaan Khan. Release Date: October 24

Kill Dil

It is a romance/drama by Shaad Ali starring Ranveer Singh, Parineeti Chopra, Ali Zafar and Govinda. Release Date: Nov 14 Ungli Directed by Rensil D’Silva, Ungli has an impressive star cast including Emraan Hashmi,

Randeep Hooda, Kangna Ranaut, Neil Bhoopalam, Angad Bedi, Sanjay Dutt. Release Date: Nov 21 Happy Ending It’s a romantic comedy by Raj Nidimoru and Krishna DK starring Saif Ali Khan, Ileana D’Cruz, Govinda, Ranvir Shorey, Kalki Koechlin. Release Date: Nov 21 Action Jackson It’s a comedy by none other than Prabhu Deva, starring Ajay Devgn, Sonakshi Sinha, Yami Gautam, Manasvi Mamgai, Sonu Sood, Kunaal Roy Kapur. Release Date: Dec 5

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All Is Well It’s a comedy by Umesh Shukla. Abhishek Bachchan, Asin Thottumkal, Rishi Kapoor, Smriti Irani are in the lead roles. Release Date: Dec 5 P.K. After his last release 3 Idiots, director Rajkumar Hirani returns with P.K. The film boasts of talented actors including Aamir Khan, Anushka Sharma, Sushant Singh Rajput, Boman Irani and a cameo from Sanjay Dutt. Release Date: Dec 19 Source: Celewood.

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SOUTH ASIA

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World water crisis brewing

By Amantha Perera

TOCKHOLM, Sep 23 2014 (IPS) - A gift of nature, or a valuable commodity? A human right or a luxury for the privileged few? Will the agricultural sector or industrial sector be the main consumer of this precious resource? Whatever the answers to these and many more questions, one thing is clear: that water will be one of the defining issues of the coming decade. Some estimates say that 768 million people still have no access to fresh water. Other research puts the number higher, suggesting that up to 3.5 billion people are denied the right to an improved source of this basic necessity. As United Nations agencies and member states inch closer to agreeing on a new set of development targets to replace the soon-to-expire Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), the need to include water in post-2015 development planning is more urgent than ever. The latest World Water Development Report (WWDR) suggests, “Global water demand (in terms of water withdrawals) is projected to increase by some 55 percent by 2050, mainly because of growing demands from manufacturing (400 percent), thermal electricity generation (140 percent) and domestic use (130 percent).” addition, a steady rise in urbanisation is likely to result in a ‘planet of cities’ where 40 percent of the world’s population will reside in areas of severe water stress through 2050. Groundwater supplies are diminishing; some 20 percent of the world’s aquifers are facing over-exploitation, and degradation of wetlands is affecting the capacity of ecosystems to purify water supplies. WWDR findings also indicate that climbing global energy demand – slated to rise by one-third by 2030 – will further exhaust limited water sources; electricity demand alone is poised to shoot up by 70 percent by 2035, with China and India accounting for over 50 percent of that growth. Against this backdrop, water experts around the world told IPS that management of this invaluable resource will occupy a prominent place among the yet-to-be finalised Sustainable Development

Goals (SDGs), in the hopes of fending off crises provoked by severe shortages. “We are discussing the goals, and most member [states] agree that water needs better coordination and management,” Amina Mohammed, the United Nations secretary-general’s special advisor on post-2015 development planning told IPS on the sidelines of the annual Stockholm World Water Week earlier this month. What is needed now, Mohammed added, is greater clarity on goals that can be mutually agreed upon by member states. Other water experts allege that in the past, water management has been excluded from high-level decision-making processes, despite it being an integral part of any development process. “In the next 30 years water usage will rise by 30 percent, water scarcity is going to increase; there are huge challenges ahead of us,” Torgny Holmgren, executive director of the Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI), told IPS. He added that the way the world uses water is drastically changing. Traditionally agriculture has been the largest guzzler of fresh water, but in the near future the manufacturing sector is tipped to take over. “Over 25 percent of [the world’s] water use will be by the energy sector,” Holmgren said. For many nations, especially in the developing world, the water-energy debate represents the classic catch-22: as more people move out of poverty

and into the middle class with spending capacity, their energy demands increase, which in turn puts tremendous pressure on limited water supplies. The statistics of this demographic shift are astonishing, said Kandeh Yumkella, special representative of the secretary-general who heads Ban Ki-moon’s pet project, the Sustainable Energy for All (SE4ALL) initiative. Yumkella told IPS that by 2050, three billion persons will move out of poverty and 60 percent of the world’s population will be living in cities. “Everyone is demanding more of everything, more houses, more cars and more water. And we are talking of a world where temperatures are forecasted to rise by two to three degrees Celsius, maybe more,” he asserted. South Asia in need of proper planning South Asia, home to 1.7 billion people of which 75 percent live in rural areas, is one of the most vulnerable regions to water shocks and represents an urgent mandate to government officials and all stakeholders to formulate coordinated and comprehensive plans. The island of Sri Lanka, for instance, is a prime example of why water management needs to be a top priority among policy makers. With climate patterns shifting, the island has been losing chunks of its growth potential to misused water. In the last decade, floods affected nine million people, representing almost half of Sri Lanka’s population of just over 20 million. Excessive

rain also caused damages to the tune of one billion dollars, according to the latest data from the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). Ironically, the island also constantly suffers from a lack of water. Currently, a 10-month drought is affecting 15 of its 25 districts, home to 1.5 million people. It is also expected to drive down the crucial rice harvest by 17 percent, reducing yields to the lowest levels in six years. All this while the country is trying to maintain an economic growth rate of seven percent, experts say. In trying to meet the challenges of wildly fluctuating rain patterns, the government has adopted measures that may actually be more harmful than helpful in the long term. In the last three years it has switched to coal to offset drops in hydropower generation. Currently coal, which is considered a “dirty” energy source, is the largest energy source for the island, making up 46 percent of all energy produced, according to government data. Top government officials like Finance Secretary Punchi Banda Jayasundera and Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga have told IPS that they are working on water management. But for those who favour fast-track moves, like Mohammed and Yumkella, verbal promises need to translate into firm goals and action. “If you don’t take water into account, either you are going to fail in your development goals, or you are going to put a lot of pressure on you water resources,” Richard Connor,

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“In the next 30 years water usage will rise by 30 percent, water scarcity is going to increase; there are huge challenges ahead of us." -- Torgny Holmgren, executive director of the Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI) lead author of the 2014 WWDR, told IPS. The situation is equally dire for India and China. According to a report entitled ‘A Clash of Competing Necessities’ by CNA Analysis and Solutions, a Washingtonbased research organisation, 53 percent of India’s population lives in waterscarce areas, while 73 percent of the country’s electricity capacity is also located. India’s power needs have galloped and according to research conducted in 2012, the gap between power demand and supply was 10.2 percent and was expected to rise further. The last time India faced a severe power crisis, in July 2012, 600 million people were left without power. According to China Water Risk, a non-profit organisation, China’s energy needs will grow by 100 percent by 2050, but already around 60 percent of the nation’s groundwater resources are polluted. China is heavily reliant on coal power but the rising demand for energy will put considerable stress on water resources in a nation where already at least 50 percent of the population may be facing water shortages, according to Debra Tan, the NGO’s director. Edited by Kanya D’Almeida

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हिन्दी की प्रतिष्ठा स्थापित करने की ओर नये क़दम

भारतीय प्रधान मंत्री, श्री नरें द्र मोदी ने जापान तथा अमेरिका में हिन्दी में सार्वजनिक भाषण दे कर, हिन्दी की प्रतिष्ठा स्थापित करने की दिशा में एक नया सराहनीय क़दम उठाया है | संयुक्त राष्ट्र संगठन में हिन्दी में भाषण दे ने वाले वे पहले व्यक्ति नहीं है ; यह सम्मान भारत के भूतपूर्व प्रधान मंत्री, श्री अटल विहारी वाजपेयी को जाता है परं तु वाजपेयी जी की मातृभाषा हिन्दी थी जब कि मोदी जी की भाषा गुजराती है , यद्यपि दोनों ही व्यक्ति एक ही राजनीतिक दल के सदस्य हैं | दो और महान व्यक्ति, जिन्होंने मातृभाषा गुजराती होते हुए भी हिन्दी की सेवा में अतुलनीय योगदान दिया है – वे थे महात्मा गांधी और स्वामी दयानंद सरस्वती| इस महीने गांधी जी की जयन्ती और स्वामी जी की पुण्य तिथि भी पड़ती है | अनेक अहिन्दी भाषी व्यक्ति, आज भी हिन्दी साहित्य की वृद्धि में प्रमुख योगदान दे रहे हैं | लोगों में यह ग़लतफ़हमी है कि भारत में सब जगह अँग्रेज़ी से काम चल जाता है जब कि सच यह है कि भारत में अंग्रेज़ी बोलने वालों की संख्या दस प्रतिशत से अधिक नहीं है जब कि हिन्दी भाषियों की संख्या लगभग ४० प्रतिशत है | अन्य सभी भारतीय भाषाओं में से किसी भी भाषा के बोलने वालों की संख्या ८ प्रतिशत से अधिक नहीं है | इसलिये, हिन्दी ही एक ऐसी भाषा है जो भारतीयों को एक साथ जोड़ने में समर्थ है | इस महीने कई प्रमुख त्योहार हैं | सभी पाठकों को दशहरा, दीवाली, भैया दूज तथा अन्य त्योहारों (बकरीद, है लोवीन, हिं दू नव-वर्ष आदि) की बहुत-बहुत बधाई| इस अंक के k;Vyku'j स्तम्भ में दीवाली तथा अन्य विषयों पर रोचक कविताएँ हैं | साथ में, ‘हम-तुम’ निबंध प्रतियोगिता में प्रथम पुरस्कार पाने वाला निबंध भी है | इसके अतिरिक्त ‘संक्षिप्त समाचार’, ‘अब हँ सने की बारी है ’, ‘mhævpU,R itiqy;\’ व ‘सूचनाएँ’ स्तम्भ भी हैं | लिखियेगा कि आपको यह अंक कैसा लगा| —दिनेश श्रीवास्तव

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अक्तूबर 2014

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दिवाली का प्रकाश मैंने पढ़ा है , दिवाली पर्व है दष्टों ु के संहार का अन्याय के दमन का l राम की रावण पर विजय, पाण्डवों का बनवास से आगमन, कृ ष्ण द्वारा नरकासुर का बध, ये सभी हैं 'दिवाली के प्रकाश' जो हैं युगों-युगों से भारतीय नभ में दे दीप्यमान l फिर मैंने ध्यानमुद्रा में सोचा "क्या हमने कुछ किया है जो दिवाली का प्रकाश बने ? " हम वर्तमान में जीते हैं , एक सामाजिक परिवेश में

आओ दीप जलाएँ (बाल-गीत)

-कवि कुलवंत सिंह, मुम्बई

आओ ख़ुशी बिखराएँ छाया जहाँ गम है |

आओ दीप जलाएँ गहराया जहाँ तम है || एक किरण भी ज्योति की आशा जगाती मन में; एक हाथ भी काँधे पर

पुलक जगाता मन में; आओ तान छे ड़ें , खोया जहाँ सरगम है ।

आओ दीप जलाएँ गहराया जहाँ तम है || एक मुस्कान भी निश्छल जीवन को दे ती संबल; प्रभु पाने की चाहत

निर्बल में भर दे ती बल; आओ हँ सी बसाएँ, हुई आँखें जहाँ नम हैं |

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आओ दीप जलाएँ गहराया जहाँ तम है || स्नेह मिले जो अपनों का जीवन बन जाता गीत; प्यार से मीठी बोली

दशु ्मन को बना दे मीत; निर्भय करें जीवन जहाँ मनु गया सहम है | आओ दीप जलाएँ गहराया जहाँ तम है ||

-डॉ कौशल किशोर श्रीवास्तव सोते हैं , जागते हैं , इसके मूल्यों को आत्मसात करते हैं l ज़िन्दगी के चतुर्थ चरण में आज मैं उद्वेलित हूँ , भावुक हूँ , और दिवाली का 'नया प्रकाश' खोजने में तत्पर हूँ l मैं सोचता रहा, खोजता रहा इस युग की वह धारा जिसका मैं प्रवाह हूँ , सृजनकर्ता हूँ , अभिनेता हूँ l मेलबोर्न में रहते हुए मैंने इसे पहचाना है , जो अदृश्य है , रहस्यमय है , पर हमारे अन्दर जीवित है l

अविरल सृष्टि क्रम

यह संगम है दनि ु या के कोने कोने से आये लोगों का, उनके धर्म, विचार, रीति रिवाजों का, पारिवारिक मूल्यों का, जीवन शैली का, 'नमस्ते' और 'गुड मॉर्निंग' का l इसी के बीच प्रखर है भारतीय दर्शन का निवेश, और 'वसुधव ै कुटु म्बकम' का विश्व सन्दे श l आइये, आज हम सभी मिलकर इस सांस्कृ तिक संगम का दीप जलायें, और प्रेमभाव से कहें 'दिवाली मुबारक़' l

-डॉ मृदल ु कीर्ति, अमेरिका

जीवन पल-पल ही चुकता है , मदिर-मदिर ही फल पकता है , 'उर्वारुकमिव' बन्ध मोक्ष का, अविरल सॄष्टि क्रम चलता है | पल बनता और पल मिटता है | सदा कहाँ सम्बन्ध किसी से, व्यर्थ मोह पाशों बंधता है | फल पकने के बाद स्वयं ही, तरुवर सारे फल तजता है । कोई सदा कहाँ टिकता है ? इन्द्रिय जनित ज्ञान सब नश्वर, माया जनित सदा छलता है , मोहक मोह भ्रमित मति मूरख, निपट भ्रान्ति जो सच लगता है | जीव तो भ्रमित रहा करता है तुम्हें प्यार का भ्रम है केवल, प्यार के नाम सदा छलता है , बिछा मोह का ताना-बान , जग उपयोग किया करता है | पल-पल जीवन भर ठगता है । सत को स्वप्न, स्वप्न की सत्त, मान मुदित मन क्यों रहता है ? काल चक्र में चुकता जीवन, सिकता मुठ्ठी ज्यों बहता है | इसी तरह जीवन बहता है | माटी के तन रहने के हित, पाथर महल व्यर्थ चुनता है , दे ह, गेह और नेह का बंधन, बहु जन्मों तक ना चुकता है । जीव क्यों नहीं तू सुनता है ? इधर गिने बहु कंचन कंकर, उधर सांस कोई गिनता है | मरू ख सोचे, माया पाई, उधर सांस का धन घटता है जीव नहीं तू क्यों डरता है ? मृणमय जीव ब्रह्म है चिन्मय, अणु-कण में उसकी सत्ता है काल प्रभंजन, तृणमय तन को, कब ले उड़े , पता चलता है ? अंतर्ज्ञान सदा टिकता उदय संग ही अस्त उपजता, अस्त के साथ उदय चलता है इधर सृजन और उधर विसर्जन, फिर भी भजन नहीं करता है . जीवन व्यर्थ किया करता कर्म विधान अटल और निश्चित, टाले नहीं टला करता है , योग वियोग जगत के नियमन, व्यर्थ प्रलाप किया करता है , ब्रह्म विधान, यही कहता पल-पल ही जीवन चलता मदिर-मदिर ही फल पकता

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इसका नाम है 'सांस्कृ तिक संगम' और यही है दिवाली का नया प्रकाश, जिसमें निहित है उभरते विश्व का आत्मविश्वास l

है | है | है । है | है ।

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www.southasiatimes.com.au - (03) 9095 6220, 0421 677 082

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southSouth asia times 31 Asia Times

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मेल्बर्न में हिं दी दिवस

hm-tum inb'/ p[ityoigt;-2014

-रमेश दवे, मेल्बर्न

(इस वर्ष, हिन्दी-दिवस पर ऑस्ट्रेलिया के प्रमुख नगरों में हिन्दी-दिवस के उपलक्ष्य में कवि-सम्मेलनों का आयोजन किया गया और हिन्दी-सम्बन्धी कार्यक्रम आयोजित किये गये| इस लेख में मेल्बर्न में मनाये गये हिन्दी-दिवस समारोह का वर्णन किया गया है –संपादक) मेल्बर्न के भारतीय कौंसलावास में रविवार १४ सितम्बर २०१४ को हिन्दी दिवस पूरे हर्षोल्लास के साथ मनाया गया जिसमें भारत की काउं सल जनरल सुश्री मणिका जैन के साथ साथ विक्टोरियन स्कू ल ऑफ़ लैंग्वेजेज़ के प्रमुख श्री फ्रैंक मर्लिनो और रें जबैंक प्राइमरी स्कू ल के प्रधानाध्यापक, कॉलिन एवरी सहित मेल्बर्न महानगर के कई गण्य मान्य शिक्षाविद, साहित्यकार, स्कू ली छात्र-छात्राएँ तथा उनके अभिभावक उपस्थित हुए| सर्वप्रथम माननीया सुश्री मणिका जैन ने विक्टोरिया और ख़ास तौर पर मेल्बर्न में हिन्दी के प्रचार व प्रसार की मौजूदा प्रगति पर अपना हर्ष व्यक्त किया और इस सम्बन्ध में कौंसलावास की ओर से हर संभव सहयोग का विश्वास दिलाया| उन्होंने हिन्दी के प्रचार व प्रसार में हिन्दी फिल्मों के योगदान का भी ज़िक्र किया और भारत सरकार की ओ़र से वी. एस. एल. के प्रमुख श्री मर्लिनो को कुछ शिक्षणसामग्री तथा पुस्तकें भी भेंट की'| श्री फ्रैंक मर्लिनो ने अपने संक्षिप्त भाषण में इस बात पर अपनी खुशी व्यक्त की कि विक्टोरिया में हिन्दी कक्षाओं की स्थिति

तुलनात्मक रूप से कहीं बेहतर है लेकिन प्रवासी भारतीयों की जनसंख्या के परिप्रेक्ष्य में यह बहुत कम है | उन्होंने एक भूतपूर्व हिन्दी विद्यार्थी का उदाहरण दे ते हुए, जो आजकल डाक्टरी की पढ़ाई कर रही है , यह भी बताया कि हिन्दी हर क्षेत्र में उच्च शिक्षा के लिये उपयोगी हो सकती है क्योंकि हिन्दी में वी.सी.ई. की परीक्षा उत्तीर्ण करने पर विश्वविद्यालय के सभी पाठ्यक्रमों में प्रवेश के लिये बोनस अंक प्राप्त होते हैं | श्रीमान कॉलिन एवरी ने अपने स्कू ल में एक नियमित भाषा के रूप में हिन्दी की पढ़ाई पर गर्व महसूस करते हुए आशा व्यक्त की कि इस चुनौतीपूर्ण कार्य में उन्हें सभी संबंधित व्यक्तियों का हर संभव सहयोग मिलेगा| उन्होंने यह भी बताया कि उनके स्कू ल में होली का त्योहार कैसे

मनाया गया| तदपु रांत वी. एस. एल. के सनशाइन, ब्लैकबर्न एवं डैं डेनांग केन्द्रों के हिन्दी छात्र-छात्राओं ने हिन्दी में काव्य-पाठ और गीत-गायन किया जिनके प्रदर्शन से उपस्थित श्रोतागण अत्यंत प्रभावित हुए| तदपु रांत डॉ. दिनेश श्रीवास्तव ने अपने संक्षिप्त भाषण में भारतीय समुदाय से कहा कि विश्व की तीसरी सर्वाधिक बोली जानेवाली हिन्दी भाषा को ऑस्ट्रेलिया के सामान्य स्कू लों में पढ़ाए जाने की दिशा में उनके भगीरथ प्रयास तब ही सफल होंगे जब अधिकाधिक अभिभावक अपने बच्चों को हिन्दी पढ़ाए जाने की माँग करें गे| अगले प्रवक्ता श्री रमेश दवे ने हिन्दी को प्रवासी भारतीयों की पहचान बताया| तदपु रांत सर्वश्री सुभाष शर्मा, राजेन्द्र चोपड़ा, हरिहर झा, डॉ. कौशल किशोर श्रीवास्तव, अमिताभ सिंह, सुश्री सुमन वर्मा, निशा भटनागर जैसे लोकप्रिय कवियों ने अपनी-अपनी प्रस्तुतियां दे कर श्रोताओं को भाव विभोर कर दिया. श्री अरविन्द और श्रीमती सुनीला श्रीवास्तव ने की बोर्ड पर एक लोक-गीत प्रस्तुत कर श्रोताओं को मंत्र-मुग्ध कर दिया| डॉ. नलिन शारदा द्वारा धन्यवाद ज्ञापन के पश्चात स्कू ली राष्ट्र-गीत ‘जनगण-मन’ के साथ समारोह का समापन हुआ|

s'i=Pt sm;c;r

हिन्दी अनुवादकों तथा दभ ु ाषियों के लिये नये अवसर

भारतीय प्रधान मंत्री तथा मंत्रिमंडल के अन्य सदस्य, विदे शों में हिन्दी में भाषण व वक्तव्य दे कर न केवल हिन्दी की अस्मिता तथा प्रतिष्ठा स्थापित करने में योगदान दे रहे हैं बल्कि हिन्दी अनुवादकों तथा दभ ु ाषियों के लिये नए अवसर भी प्रदान कर रहे हैं | भारतीय प्रधान मंत्री के जापान तथा अमेरिका में हिन्दी में दिये गये भाषणों से तो अनेक लोग परिचित हैं परतु बहुत कम लोग जानते हैं कि मेल्बर्न में पिछ्ले महीने जी-२० की दो दिवसीय श्रम व रोज़गार मंत्रीस्तरीय अंतर्राष्ट्रीय बैठक में भारतीय श्रम व रोज़गार मंत्री श्री नरे न्द्र सिंह तोमर ने भारत का प्रतिनिधित्व किया और अपने

विचार हिन्दी में प्रस्तुत किये| इस बैठक में २० दे शों के श्रम व रोज़गार मंत्रियों ने भाग लिया और जापानी, कोरियन, स्पैनिश और जर्मन आदि अन्य भाषाओं के साथ-साथ,

हिन्दी में भी दो दिनों तक लगातार भाषांतरण प्रसारित किया गया। यद्यपि ऑस्ट्रेलिया में हिन्दी अनुवादक तथा दभ ु ाषिये पिछ्ले २०-२१ वर्षों से काम कर रहे हैं , यह पहला अवसर था जब किसी अंतर्राष्ट्रीय महासभा में हिन्दी में लगातार भाषांतरण प्रसारित किया गया| हिन्दी-दभ ु ाषिये, श्रीमती मधु अग्रवाल तथा श्रीमती वीना चोपड़ा ने यह चुनौती स्वीकार की और बड़ी दक्षता से कार्य सँभाला और ऑस्ट्रेलिया तथा विश्व के अन्य दे शों में हिन्दी-दभ ु ाषियों के लिये नए अवसरों का सूत्रपात किया| हिन्दी पुष्प की ओर से उन्हें बहुत-बहुत बधाई|

डॉ संतोष कुमार को मिला ‘सीनियर अचीवर अवार्ड’

mhTvpU,R itiqy;\

२ अक्तूबर, २०१४ को डॉ. संतोष कुमार को मेल्बर्न के ‘गवर्नर हाउस’ में आयोजित एक समारोह में, ‘काउन्सिल आन द एजिंग‘ (कोटा) द्वारा ‘सीनियर अचीवर अवार्ड’ प्रदान किया गया| डॉ. कुमार, मेल्बर्न के उत्तरी क्षेत्र के वरिष्ठ भारतीयों के संगठन ‘नरीसा’ के संस्थाकों में से एक हैं और उसके भूतपूर्व अध्यक्ष तथा वर्तमान सचिव हैं | उन्होंने

मेल्बर्न के विभिन्न भारतीय संगठनों में सक्रिय योगदान दिया है और वरिष्ठ नागरिकों को भी अपनी रुचि के क्षेत्रों में सक्रिय रहने की सलाह दे ते हैं | अपने प्रिय विषय ‘आपरे शन रिसर्च’ तथा वैज्ञानिक विषयों पर वे आज भी लेख लिखते रहते हैं | हिन्दी पुष्प उन्हें इस सम्मान के लिये बधाई दे ता है और उनकी दीर्घायु की कामना करता है |

smy - r;t ke 8³00 bje se a;rM.) p[vex in"xuLk hw) ai/k j;nk;rI ke ilE nIrj áf¹on -0439 980 551â aqv; ini%l áf¹on-0430 922 851â se sMpkR kIijye aqv; inMn vebs;”$ dei%ye - http://www. sharda.org/Events.htm

sankatmochansamiti@gmail.com.

su%I pirv;r ke ilye sMm;nnIy sMb'/ mhævpU,R hw'

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sMm;n hr irXte me' bhut a;vXyk hw) bcpn se hme' yh is%;y; j;t; hw ik apne m;t;ipt;² ix=k² sm;j² rIit-irv;j¹o' a*r apnI s'SkOit k; sMm;n krn; c;ihye² ijsme' S]I ko svRÅeã# Sq;n idy; gy; hw) S]I sOiã$ kI jnnI hw jo apne jIvn me' anek .Uimk;E\ in.;tI hw) m;\ ke åp me' apne bCco' ko aCz; jIvn p[d;n krtI hw) Ek pTnI ke åp me'² Ek bhn a*r p[eimk; ke åp me' dUsro' kI ij¹NdgI s\v;rtI hw) vh hr irXte ko Py;r a*r sMm;n se sI'ctI hw a*r Ek %¹uxh;l pirv;r tq; %¹uxh;l irXto' kI nI'v r%tI hw) hr irXte kI buiny;d Py;r a*r sMm;n pr i$kI hotI hw) mw' .I Ek mihl; hU\ a*r ”s b;t pr muZe gvR hw pr'tu a;j jb mw' sm;j me' mihl;ao' kI dynIy dx; de%tI hU\ to muZe k.I-k.I apne mihl; hone

भारतीय महिला न्यू साउथ वेल्स अंतर्राष्ट्रीय विद्यार्थी पुरस्कार से सम्मानित १५ सितम्बर, २०१४ को सिडनी ओपेरा हॉउस में आयोजित एक समारोह में, भारतीय महिला, श्रीमती सबा नबी को, न्यू साउथ वेल्स के लघु व्यापार और क्षेत्रीय विकास के संसदीय सदस्य, जॉन बरिलियारो द्वारा उच्च शिक्षा की श्रेणी में, न्यू साउथ वेल्स अंतर्राष्ट्रीय विद्यार्थी पुरस्कार से सम्मानित किया गया| पटना में जन्मी, श्रीमती सबा नबी, चार्ल्स स्टु अर्ट

विश्वविदयालय (सी.एस.यू), के वागा वागा कैम्पस में जीव चिकित्सा विज्ञान (बायोमेडिकल साइं सेस) में पी.एच. डी. की छात्रा हैं | वे सी.एस.यू. वागावागा में अंतर्राष्ट्रीय क्लब की अध्यक्ष तथा इस्लामिक विद्यार्थी संस्था की सचिव तथा विज्ञान निकाय बोर्ड की सदस्य भी हैं | ‘हिन्दी-पुष्प’ उन्हें इस सम्मान प्राप्त के लिये बधाई दे ता है और उनके उज्ज्वल भविष्य की कामना करता है |

अंतर्राष्ट्रीय हिन्दी लघु कथा प्रतियोगिता विश्व हिन्दी दिवस, २०१५ के उपलक्ष्य में, विश्व हिन्दी सचिवालय ने अंतर्राष्ट्रीय हिन्दी लघु कथा प्रतियोगिता का आयोजन किया है | इस प्रतियोगिता में निम्न क्षेत्रों में से हर क्षेत्र में विजेताओं को प्रमाण-पत्र व नकद पुरस्कार दिये जायेंगे(पथम पुरस्कार – ३०० अमेरिकी डॉलर, iÃtIy पुरस्कार – २०० अमेरिकी डॉलर व तृतीय पुरस्कार – १०० अमेरिकी डॉलर) भागौलिक क्षेत्र:- (१) अफ़्रीका व मध्य पूर्व (२) अमेरिका (३) युरोप (४) भारत (५ ) एशिया व ऑस्ट्रेलिया (भारत के अतिरिक्त) लघु-कथा, अप्रकाशित (प्रिंट अथवा इलेक्ट्रोनिक), मौलिक, कॉपीराइट से स्वतंत्र, दे वनागरी लिपि

में स्पष्ट हस्तलिखित अथवा टं कित होनी चाहिये| रचना पर लेखक का नाम, पता, फ़ोन नम्बर तथा ई-मेल आदि नहीं होना चाहिये| यह सब एक अलग कागज पर लिखा जाना चाहिये| एक व्यक्ति की केवल एक रचना स्वीकार की जायेगी| लिफ़ाफ़े पर ‘अंतर्राष्ट्रीय हिन्दी लघु कथा प्रतियोगिता’ तथा भागौलिक क्षेत्र का नाम लिखा होना चाहिये|| लघु-कथाएँ, १५ नवम्बर, २०१४ तक निम्न पते पर पहुँच जानी चाहियें – World Hindi Secretariat, Swift Lane, Forest Side, 74427, Mauritius. ईमेल का पता है Info @vishwhindi.com. फ़ैक्स – (२३०) ६७६ १२२४

ab h\sne kI b;rI hw

डॉक्टर (रोगी से) – गलती से आपरे शन करते समय तुम्हारे पेट में मेरे रबर के दस्ताने रह गये हैं | दब ु ारा आपरे शन करना होगा| रोगी (डॉक्टर से) – डॉक्टर साहे ब, क्यों बेकार परे शान होते हैं | मुझ से बीस रुपये ले लीजिए, नये खरीद लीजियेगा|

9³30 bje tkâ á%â xinv;r² 25 meLbnR ke f¹e@rexn 3³ ¾a;ŽS$^eilyn ”i<@yn ”novexNs ”'k SKv;yr pr dIv;lI ¬Tsv áE³a;é³a;”R³a;”R³â¾ p[Stut krt; hw - dIv;lI ádophr 12 bje se r;t ke 9³30 bje tkâ mel; ákâ meLbnR Eyrpo$R pr dIv;lI á18 se 26 itiq v smy - rivv;r² 19 aKtUbr² subh nvMbr tkâ 11³30 bje se r;t ke 9³30 bje tk ai/k j;nk;rI ke ilye² f¹on kIijye Sq;n - swn@;¬n reskosR² 591-659 ip['sej¹ á0499â 161230 y; inMn vebs;”$ dei%ye 2³ s'k$ mocn keN{ pr krv; c*q pUj; - h;”ve² iSp['gvel ámeLve s'd.R² 80 sI-9â www.celbrateindi.org.au pUj; v kq; áp'i@t rmex itv;rI Ã;r;â ai/k j;nk;rI ke ilye² hir yeiLln; se á043â itiq v smy - xinv;r² 11 aKtUbr áx;m 9323 232 pr sMpkR kIijye aqv; inMn 5³ ihNdI inketn k; dIv;lI sm;roh sUcn;E\ ko 5 se 6 bje tkâ vebs;”$ dei%ye - www. aiii.org.au ás;'SkOitk k;yRÞm² ‘mwijk xo² r;i]-.ojâ 1- s'gIt s'?y; áxinv;r² 4 aKtUbrâ tq; Sq;n - 1289-E² n;qR ro@² h'i$'g@el ke rivv;r² 26 aKtUbr Svr s'?y; áxinv;r² 1 nvMbrâ %ulne k; smy 4³ ¾selIb[e$ ”i<@y;¾ p[Stut krt; hw Sq;n - Kle$n h;Žl² 264 Kle$n ro@² Sq;n - vevlIR me@oj¹ p[;”mrI SkUl² 11 ai/k j;nk;rI ke ilye² @;Ž. sunIl; ákâ 23-24 aKtUbr ko ¾m;”'@ Blo”Ng Kle$n ámeLve s'd.R - 79 sI-2â kUliMby; @^;”v² ×IlsR ihl² ivK$oiry; ÅIv;Stv se 0427 274 462 pr f¹on Ã;r; if¹LMs(¾ ke s*jNy se meLbnR ke f¹e@rexn SKv;yr smy - x;m ke 6 bje se r;t ke 9 bje ámeLve s‹d.R-71 jI-11â aqv; inMn pte pr émel Ã;r; sMpkR kIijyepr lg;t;r if¹Lm xo ádophr 12 bje se r;t ke tk 2 aKtUbr ámh;Tm; g;\/I v l;l bh;dur x;S]I jy'tI² dug;Rã$mIâ² 4 aKtUbr ádxhr;Öse'$ p[Ð;'iss idvsâ² 5 aKtUbr ábk¹rIdâ² 11 aKtUbr ákrv; c*qâ² 20 aKtUbr águ¨ g['q s;heb Sq;pn; idvsâ² 23 aKtUbr ádIp;vlIâ² 24 aKtUbr áihNdU nv-vWR² ivÞm s'vt 2071 k; a;rM.â² 25 aKtUbr á.wy;-dUjâ² 30 aKtUbr ámhiWR dy;n'd srSvtI kI pu<y itiqâ² 31 aKtUbr áhwlovInâ)

pr pzt;v; .I hot; hw) .;rtIy sm;j ke rIit-irv;j¹o' me' deivyo' ko svRÅeã# dj;R to idy; j;t; hw leikn s;m;Ny mihl;ao' ko sMm;njnk åp se nhI' de%; j;t; hw) a;j .;rt ke ké ihSso' me'² sMm;n kI dOiã$ se² pu¨Wo' ke muk¹;ble me' iS]yo' kI s':y; a*r Sq;n bhut nIce hw) irXte sm;j ke ilE nhI' biLk sm;j Py;r a*r sMm;n ke irXto' pr bnt; hw) agr hm;re sm;j me' iS]yo' ko pu¨Wo' ke sm;n dj;R idy; j;EÉ ¬Nhe' a;ge b!¹ne a*r sMm;njnk aiStTv bn;ne ke ilE br;br k; hk¹ idy; j;E to sm;j me' .[U,-hTy;² dhej ke ilE p[t;i,t iky; j;n; a*r bl;Tk;r jwsI s.I smSy;ao' k; inr;kr, mumikn hog;) yid hm;re sm;j me' iS]yo' ko Py;r a*r sMm;n kI nj¹r se de%; j;E to Ek %¹uxh;l pirv;r a*r sm;j k; SvPn s;k;r ho skt; hw)

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ai/k j;nk;rI ke ilye² @;Ž. xrd guPt; se á040â 226 793 pr sMpkR kre' ) 6³ s;ihTy-s'?y; - apne log² apnI b;te' áxinv;r² 15 nvMbrâ Sq;n- f¹ils hor åm² KyU áKew) l;”b[erI² koqm áCothamâ ro@ tq; isivk (Civic) @^;”v ke nuKk@¹ pr² KyU áKew), ámeLve s‹d.R-45 @I-6â) smy - x;m ke 8 bje se r;t ke 10 bje tk) p[vex in"xuLk hw) ai/k j;nk;rI ke ilE tq; ¾ihNdI puãp¾ ke pur;ne a'ko' ke ilye² inMn vebs;”$ dei%ye http://www.sahityasangam.org aqv; p[o0 niln x;rd; áé-mel" nalinsharda@gmail. com ) ko á0402â 108 512 pr f¹on kIijye)

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quick community guide Radio GUIDE

SBS Radio's South Asian

SUNDAY Language Program Hindi..................................9 am to 10 am – 93.1 FM BANGLA Urdu................................10 am to 11 am – 93.1 FM Sydney 97.7 FM & SBS Radio 2 Tamil...............................11 am to 12 pm – 93.1 FM Melbourne 93.1 FM & SB Radio 2 Hindi.................................8 pm to 10 pm – 88.3 FM Monday & Saturday Singhalese.......................8 pm to 11 pm –97.7 FM 6-7 PM GUJARATI MONDA Y Sydney 97.7 FM & SBS Radio 2 Hindi....................................3 to 4 pm – 93.1 FM Melbourne 93.1 FM & SBSPm Radio Bengali...............................4 pm to 5 pm – 93.1 FM Wednesday & Friday 4-5 PM Hindi...................................6 pm to 8 pm – 88.3 FM Indian (Fiji)..................................6 pm to 8 pm 88.3 HINDI Punjabi........................1 1 am to 12 Sydney 97.7 FM & SBS Radio 2 noon 92.3 FM Melbourne 93.1 FM & SB Radio 2 Daily TUESDAY 5 PM

Hindi..................................... 6 am to 8 am – 97.7 FM Hindi.................................... 2 pm to 4 pm – 97.7 FM kannada Sydney SBS Radio 3 Melbourne SBS Radio 3 WEDNESDAY Tuesday 3-4 PM

Hindi.................................... .6 am to 8 am – 97.7 FM Hindi......................................... 12 to 1 pm – 93.1 FM Nepali Sydney 97.7 FM & SBS1Radio 2 12 pm - 92.3 FM Punjabi............................ 1 am to Melbourne 93.1 FM & SB Radio Hindi................................... .8 pm to 29 pm – 97.7 FM Saturday & Sunday 4-5 PM

THURSDAY PUNJABI Hindi............................... 5.30 am to 7 am – 97.7 FM Sydney 97.7 FM & SBS Radio 2 9 pm – 92.3 FM Tamil.................................... 8 pm to Melbourne 93.1 FM & SB Radio 2 Sinhalese.......................... 1 1 pm to 3 am –92.3 FM Monday & Friday Punjabi............................. 9 pm to 10 pm – 93.1 FM 9-10 PM SINHALESE FRIDAY Sydney 97.7 FM & SBS Radio 2 Indian.................................. .8 Radio am to 29 am – 88.3 FM Melbourne 93.1 FM & SB Monday & Friday 11AM-12 PM SATURDAY

Sinhalese............................ 7 am to 8 am – 92.3 FM TAMIL TSydney amil..................................... 12-12.30 97.7 FM & SBS Radio 2 pm – 88.3 FM Indian.................................... am to26 am - 92.3 FM Melbourne 93.1 FM & SB5Radio Monday & Saturday Punjabi.......................................... 12-2 am – 92.3 FM 8-9 PM Indian................................ 9 pm to 10 pm – 92.3 FM Punjabi.................................................. 11 pm to 1 am urdu Sydney 97.7 FM & SBS Radio24/7 2 Radio stations Melbourne FM & SB Radio 2(Subscription) Indian Link93.1 Radio Wednesday & Sunday 18000 15 8 47 6-7 PM Radio Santa Banta (Internet) Santabanta.com.au WORLD NEWS AUSTRALIA RADIO SydneyJhankar 1107AM88.6 & SBSFM; Radio 1 Thursday; 8 to Radio Every Melbourne 1224AM & SB Radio 1 10 pm; Contact: 94668900 or 0411247320 or Monday & Friday 9404 2111 6-7 am & 6-7 PM

South Asian websiteS India TEHELKA – www.tehelka.com OUTLOOK – www.outlookindia.com FRONTLINE- www.flonnet.com THE HINDU: www.hinduonnet.com TIMES OF INDIA: www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com HINDUSTAN TIMES: www.hindustantimes.com Pakistan DAWN: www.dawn.com THE FRIDAY TIMES: www.thefridaytimes.com THE NEWS INTERENATIONAL: www.thenews.com.pk Sri Lanka DAILY MIRROR: www.dailymirror.lk DAILY NEWS: www.dailynews.lk THE ISLAND: www.island.lk Nepal THE HIMALAYAN TIMES: www.thehimalayantimes.com KANTIPUR NATIONAL DAILY:

community

www.ekantipur.com/en THE RISING NEPAL: www.nepalnews.com.np

PLACES OF WORSHIP HINDU Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple 57 Boundary Rd, Carrum Downs, Melbourne, Vic 3201, Ph: 03 9782 0878; Fax: 03 9782 0001 Website: www.hsvshivavishnu.org.au Sri Vakratunda Vinayaka Temple 1292 - 1294, The Mountain Highway, The Basin, Vic 3154, Ph: 03 9792 1835 Melbourne Murugan Temple 17-19 Knight Ave., Sunshine VIC 3020 Ph: 03 9310 9026 Durga Temple (Durga Bhajan Mandali) Neales Road, Rockbank, Vic 3335 Ph: 03 9747 1628 or Mobile: 0401 333 738 Hare Krishna (ISKCON) Temple 197 Danks Street, Middle Park Vic 3206 Ph: (03) 9699 5122 Email: 100237.354@compuserve.com Hare Krishna New Nandagram Rural Community Oak Hill, Dean’s Marsh Rd., Bambra VIC 3241, Ph: (052) 887383 Fax: (052) 887309 Kundrathu Kumaran Temple 139 Gray Court, ROCKBANK Victoria 3335 Ph: 03-9747 1135 or M: 0450 979 023 http://www.kumarantemple.org.au/ SIKH BLACKBURN Sri Guru Nanak Satsang Sabha 127 Whitehorse Road, Blackburn VICTORIA 3130, Ph: (03) 9894 1800 CRAIGIEBURN Sri Guru Singh Sabha 344 Hume Highway, Craigieburn VICTORIA 3164 (see map), Ph: (03) 9305 6511 KEYSBOROUGH Gurdwara Sri Guru Granth Sahib 198 -206 Perry Road, Keysborough VICTORIA 3073 (see map) LYNBROOK Nanaksar Taath, 430 Evans Road, Lynbrook VICTORIA 3975, (03) 9799 1081 HOPPERS CROSSING Sri Guru Nanak Satsang Sabha 417 Sayers Road, Hoppers Crossing VICTORIA 3029, Ph: (03) 9749 2639 WERRIBEE Gurdwara Sahib Werribee 560 Davis Road, Tarneit VICTORIA 3029 PH: (03) 8015 4707 SHEPPARTON Gurdwara Sahib Shepparton 240 Doyles Road, Shepparton VICTORIA 3603 PH: (03) 5821 9309 JAIN Melbourne Shwetambar Jain Sangh Inc 3 Rice Street, Moorabbin, Vic - 3189, Australia. Phone: +61 3 9555 2439

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info@melbournejainsangh.org http://www.melbournejainsangh.org MUSLIM Melbourne West Mosque 66-68 Jeffcott Street, Melbourne Ph: 03 9328 2067 Broadmeadows Mosque 45-55 King Street, Broadmeadows Ph 03 9359 0054 Islamic Call Society 19 Michael Street, Brunswick Ph: 03 9387 7100 Islamic Centre of Australia 660 Sydney Road, Brunswick Ph 03 9385 8423 Australian Islamic Cultural Centre 46-48 Mason Street, Campbellfield Ph: 03 9309 7605 Coburg ISNA Mosque 995 Sydney Road, Coburg North Coburg Mosque (Fatih Mosque) 31 Nicholson Street, Coburg Ph 03 9386 5324 Deer Park Mosque 283 Station Road, Deer Park Ph 03 9310 8811 United Migrant Muslim Assn. 72 George Road, Doncaster Ph 03 9842 6491, Footscray West Mosque 294 Essex Street, Footscray Glenroy Musala 1st Floor, 92 Wheatsheaf Road, Glenroy Heidelberg Mosque Corner Lloyd & Elloits Streets, West Heidelberg Islamic College of Victoria (Mosque) 201 Sayers Road, Hoppers Crossing Ph 03 9369 6010 Huntingdale Mosque 320-324 Huntingdale Road, Huntingdale Ph 03 9543 8037 Al Nur Mosque 34-36 Studley Street, Maidstone Meadow Heights Mosque Hudson Circuit, Meadow Heights Springvale Mosque 68 Garnworthy Street, Springvale

EMERGENCY CONTACTS EMERGENCY CONTACTS Police, Fire & Abulance ........................ 000 Victoria State Emergency Service (SES)....................................... 132 500 Traffic hazards and freeway conditions.......................... 13 11 70 Gas escape........................................... 132 771 Poisons information........................ 13 11 26 Maternal and Child Line................ 13 22 29 Parentline........................................... 13 22 89 Kids Help Line......................... 1800 551 800 Lifeline (provides confidential telephone counselling)................. 13 11 14 Suicide Help Line.................... 1300 651 251 Animal Emergencies.................. 9224 2222

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HIGH COMMISSION FOR PAKISTAN,CANBERRA 4 Timbarra Crescent, O’Malley ACT 2606 (Australia), Tel: 61-2-62901676, 61-2-62901676, 62902769, 62901879 & 62901031, Fax: 61-262901073 Email: parepcanberra@internode. on.net, Postal Address: PO Box 684, Mawson ACT 2607 (Australia)

Sri Lanka Consulate 32A Brunswick Street ,Walkerville 5081 Melbourne , Phone: 9898-6760, 9248-1228 Email: rodney@techno.net.au

Bangladesh High Commission, Canberra 43, Culgoa Circuit, O’Malley, ACT-2606 Canberra, Australia, Ph: (61-2) 6290-0511, (612) 6290-0522, (61-2)6290-0533 (Auto hunting). Fax : (61-2) 6290-0544 E-Mail :hoc@bhcanberra.com Consulate of Nepal, Melbourne Email: cyonzon@nepalconsulate.net.au Level 7, 28-32 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, Ph: (03) 9650 8338 Email: info@nepalconsulate.net.au SBS1 – Daily NDTV News - 11 am - Monday to Saturday. (From New Delhi, India).

INDIAN CONSULATE (MELBOURNE) Address : 344, St. Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia , P.O. Box No: 33247 Domain LPO Vic 3004 General phone: +61-3- 96827836 Fax No: + 61-3- 96968251 Web site: www.cgimelb.org PHONE NUMBERS Phone Number for General Consular Enquiries(operational only during Consular Working Hours i.e. 0930 hrs to 1230 hrs, Monday to Friday) For PCC and PCC and Driving License Verification enquiries 03- 96825800 02 8223 9908/ 1900 969 969 Email ID for General Consular Enquiries consular@cgimelb.org Visa enquiries: visainfo.inau@vfshelpline.com Passport/Police Clearance Certificate/ Driving License Enquiries passportinfo. inau@vfshelpline.com, OCI/PIO Enquiries

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SAT Noticeboard Events

AIII Diwali Fair The AIII is holding its annual Diwali Fair on 19 Oct., 2014 @ Sandown Racecourse, 591-659Princess Highway, Springwale, Mel Ref: 80 C-9, 11.30 am to 9.30 pm; Free parking, Food and other stalls, Police security, Alcohol free, Henna, Tattoos, Kids rides, Multicultural events & Fireworks. Site: www. aiii.org.au. DETAILS: 0433 003 003.

Diwali @ Fed. Square

The Celebrate India’s Diwali fair will take place on 25 Oct., 2014 @ Federation Square(Opp Flinder’s Street Station, Melbourne); 12 pm to 9.30 pm; Food & Variety stalls, Cultural events etc., Site: www. celebrateindia.org.au; DETAILS: 0449 161 230.

Cinema

Hindi movies www.mindblowingfilms.com DAWAAT –E – ISHQ Release Date: 19th September 2014 (Parineeti Chopra, Aditya Roy Kapoor) KHOOBSURAT Release Date: 19 September 2014 (Sonam Kapoor, Fawad Afzal Khan) HAIDER Release Date: 2nd October 2014 (Shahid Kapur, Shraddha Kapur and Irrfan Khan) BANG BANG Release Date: 2nd October 2014 (Hrithik Roshan and Katrina Kaif ) HAPPY NEW YEAR Release Date: 23rd October 2014 (Shahrukh Khan) PK Release Date: 19th December 2014 (Aamir Khan) Hindi Movies Eros Australia - http://erosintl.com/ NH10 Releasing Date: 19 September 2014 (Anushka Sharma, Neil Bhoopalam) NH10 is a thriller directed by Navdeep Singh who previously directed the highly acclaimed Manorama Six Feet Under.

Seniors

Victorian Seniors Festival Festival Celebration Day presented by the City of Melbourne on Sunday 5 October 10.30 am to 4.00 pm @ Federation Square. FREE Lifeview Deakin Edge Concerts on Monday 6 October and Tuesday 7 October 10.30, 12.00 pm, 2.30 pm @ Federation Square. FREE www.southasiatimes.com.au - (03) 9095 6220, 0421 677 082

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Diwali Special

5 easy homemade sweets: Diwali, one of the biggest Hindu festivals is right around the corner, and it’s time to get cooking some delicious sweets and snacks. Here are some easy yet delicious Diwali special sweets that you can make right at your home; make the most of your time, so you can enjoy the other celebrations too with equal gusto!

KOPRAPAAK (Coconut Burfi) Ingredients: 41 can condensed milk 42 cups dessicated coconut 42 tsp cardamom powder 42 tbsp sugar 41/4 cup nuts – chopped (pistachios, almonds, cashews) 4A few strands of saffron – to decorate Method: Keep a little coconut and a few pistachios aside for garnishing. Mix the condensed milk and the remaining coconut in a bowl. Add the sugar and elaichi powder and stir on a low flame for about 4-5 mins. The milk is already thick, so don’t over-heat else it may get burnt. Remove from flame,

REVA BESAN LADOOS

Ingredients: 41 cup Besan (Gram Flour) 41 tbsp Ghee (Clarified Butter) 42 cup Rava (Semolina) 41 cup Sugar 41-2 cup Water 4Sliced Almonds and cashews to garnish Method: Take the ghee in a non-stick pan. Once the ghee is melted add rava to it and half roast it till it becomes faint light pinkish and starts giving out roasted smell. Don’t overcook it. Then add the besan to it and roast again for about 5 mins till the mixture becomes golden brown in color. Along with this, keep another pan to make the sugar syrup with all the sugar and water. Keep stirring the sugar syrup and check the consistency till it comes to single-wired texture (take a little sugar syrup between your fingers and check to see that the syrup forms a single strand as you pull your fingers apart). Take the rava-besan mixture in a plate and allow it to cool. Once the sugar syrup is done, don’t let it cool much, and add it to the rava till it becomes like a thick paste. Keep adding the syrup a little at a time, just enough so you can make a loose ball when you take some mixture in your hand. Mix everything well and let it rest for 7-8 hours or even for overnight, to be on the safer side. You can see that the mixture when cooled enough, it becomes a bit thicker than before; Make laddus out of it and garnish them with sliced almonds and cashews. These can be stored in an air-tight container for about 1012 days at room temperature, and more if refrigerated.

Method: Take khoya and sugar in a thick pan and heat over medium heat with continuous

and saffron. Alternately, you can spread the mixture after removing from flame into a slightly greased plate or thali which has edges. Then use a knife to cut into squares or diamonds if you want to make Coconut Burfi instead of laddoos.

PEDA (Milk Pedas)

Ingredients: 41 tin (nestle) Condensed Milk 41 cup (whole) Milk Powder 41 tbsp Kewra Essence or

Shahi Pista Roll or Pista Burfi

Ingredients: 4Pista (Pistachios), unsalted and chopped, 1 Tbsp 4Khoya or mawa, 1/2 cup 4Milk powder, 1 tspn 4Sugar, 2 Tbsp 4Varak (silver foil), 3-4 sheets (optional) 4Cardamom, powdered, 1/2 tspn

then add the chopped nuts and set aside till the mixture has cooled down enough to handle with your hands. Shape into small laddoos(round balls). Roll each laddoo in a little dessicated coconut. Garnish each with a slit of pistachio

stirring till it start to leave the sides, about 5 minutes. Add cardamom powder. Transfer to a plate and let it cool so that it is comfortable to touch. Add milk powder and knead well to make it a dough. Divide the dough into smaller balls and roll each to form a long cylindrical (tube) of diameter 1 cm. Carefully stick the silver foil all round each of the tubes. (optional) Cut each roll into smaller rolls of 2cm size. Store in an air-tight container. If it’s too hard for you to make the rolls, just spread the mixture on a greased plate, let it cool, then cut into diamond shapes to make Pista Burfi instead. These are the easiest Diwali sweet recipes that you can make to enjoy with your family. Make this festival special by cooking homemade sweets this year, rather than buying from the stores. They are super easy, and your family will appreciate the extra effort that you put in to make this Diwali a memorable one. Doing things together as a family is what Diwali is all about, or any other festival for that matter. So while you decorate your houses with lights and Rangoli colors, keep some time to make at least one lovely recipe from the list above!

Rose Essence 41/4 cup finely chopped Pistachio 42 tbsp melted (unsalted) Butter

Method: Mix together the condensed milk, milk powder, melted butter and the essence in a microwave dish (preferably) a corning ware dish. Microwave it for first four minutes. Remove and stir it thoroughly. Again microwave it for another 2 minutes. Remove and let it cool for sometime. Divide them equally into small lemon sized balls. Take an empty thread spool and one by one press the balls with the spool on a wax paper. Now you get a beautiful design. Sprinkle the finely chopped pistachio on the pedas. The pedas are ready. Serve it on a decorated dish.

KHEER (Rice Pudding)

Ingredients: 41 cup – rice 41 litre – milk 41 tbsp ghee (clarified butter) 41/2 cup condensed milk (unsweetened) 41 cup – sugar 4You can reduce the sugar to half or skip it if using sweetened condensed milk 4cashew nuts fried in ghee – for garnish Method: Wash the rice once. Keep it

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aside. Fry some sugar in ghee for a min. Add the rice to the sugar and fry for a min. Add 2 cups of water to it and allow it to cook in a pressure cooker upto 3 whistles. After that remove the lid and add milk to cooked rice. Let it boil for 5 mins, then add sugar. Boil again for 5 mins. After that add condensed milk to it to make it nice and thick. Finally add cashew nuts, garnish with some saffron strands, and serve, either hot or cold.

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FILM REVIEW

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SAT CRICKET GUIDE

(Australia - India matches) Commonwealth Bank Test Series (India tours Australia) 24 NOV 2014 - 25 NOV 2014 | 2-DAY TOUR MATCH Cricket Australia XI- India Gliderol Stadium, Glenelg 10 30 AM Local

12 DEC 2014 - 16 DEC 2014 | SECOND TEST Australia - India Adelaide Oval, Adelaide 10 30 AM Local

28 NOV 2014 - 29 NOV 2014 | 2-DAY TOUR MATCH Cricket Australia XI - India Adelaide Oval, Adelaide 10 30 AM Local

26 DEC 2014 - 30 DEC 2014 | THIRD TEST Australia - India MCG, Melbourne 10 30 AM Local

04 DEC 2014 - 08 DEC 2014 | FIRST TEST Australia - India Gabba, Brisbane 10 00 AM Local

03 JAN 2015 - 07 JAN 2015 | FOURTH TEST Australia - India SCG, Sydney 10 30 AM Local

Teams

AUSTRALIA: George Bailey, Michael Clarke, James Faulkner, Aaron Finch, Brad Haddin, Ryan Harris, Phillip Hughes, Mitchell Johnson, Nathan Lyon, Mitch Marsh, Shaun Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, James Pattinson, Chris Rogers, Peter Siddle, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, David Warner & Shane Watson. INDIA: MS Dhoni, Ravichandran Ashwin, Shikhar Dhawan, Ashok Dinda, Ravindra Jadeja, Virat Kohli, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Pragyan Ojha, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Virender Sehwag, Ishant Sharma, Harbhajan Singh, Sachin Tendulkar & Murali Vijay. BROADCAST PARTNERS for Test Matches: Ch-9 on TV and ABC Grandstand & Fairfax Radio for Radio. For more information â&#x20AC;&#x201C;www. cricket.com.au & www.bcci.tv

0404 599 644

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Haider, a bold movie

By Seema Mustafa

steeped in reality

ew Delhi: Never a Bollywood film fan, in fact a hard critic, one went to see Haider with some trepidation. A Bollywood cast--and perhaps with the sole exception of Tabu who has managed to bring some sterling performances to celluloid---the others rather ‘mainstream’ and dumb down mainstream really. The one redeeming thought was that the director Vishal Bhardwaj had some good cinema like Maqbool to his credit, and of course Basharat Peer’s story. But Bollywood is notorious for making mincemeat of good stories, so the last was not really a consoling factor. However, Haider had to be seen as it was on Kashmir. And the boycott hashtag that had attached itself to the film by the clearly intolerant, hardline lobby that exists in India as it does in all countries could just mean that there was something to disturb those who think along intolerant lines. And hence, it could mean that there just might be something in the film that was real and hence true. Well to put it mildly I was not prepared for Haider. And was absolutely shocked to find that one, there were people out there like Bhardwaj who could make a film as bold as this one; and two, there was a censor board that did not come in the way and actually allowed the movie through its red tape. And three, the realisation after the movie running in packed halls that the intolerant lot are indeed a minority as Indians sat through the movie, absorbed, interested, and accepting. All three points to my mind reflect a change in attitude that will be further explained in the following paragraphs. There is a Kashmir narrative that cannot escape a honest and impartial observer visiting the Valley. It is a narrative of perceived and real injustice, of atrocities, of enforced disappearances, of half widows whose husbands were picked up by security forces including the Army without any information of whether they are alive or dead, of detention centres and torture, of clampdowns, and crackdowns, and curfews, of frisking and humiliation, of fear and alienation. It is topped by the

demand for independence, a pulling away, an assertion that if seen against the backdrop of justice and right violations can be understood even if not accepted by many in India. Haider deals with all this and more. And with amazing sensitivity and simplicity. It is bold and courageous and does not leave issues under the carpet at any level. I am amazed that Bhardwaj has been able to capture the face of the Indian Army in Kashmir, as being so different from the Army the rest of us know. Operation Bulbul where the commander openly tells his people to finish them, the camera stopping briefly on an Army hoarding---that adorn Kashmir---which in this cases says, ‘if you have got them the balls you have got their hearts and minds’ (some such words), the harsh interrogation of the youth who keep screaming their innocence even as they are beaten and tortured in the Mama 2 , one of the many detention centres referred to in the film, the frisking and the fear of curfew ---as Tabu runs out to stop Haider from leaving warning him there was curfew, worrying that he would not return----its all there recorded in this Indian version of Hamlet. The movie does not make any judgements, it just a narrative, take it or leave it. And that is its beauty and its strength. The director is not visible trying to force his views down your throat, it is a story in the reality of Kashmir, and it is for the viewer to trash it, accept it or at least try and

understand it. The movie also dwells at some length on the informers from within, on the distortions within Kashmiri character where there are those who inform the security forces about each other, and move to any length to assert their loyalties to the system that is heavily weighed against the average Kashmiri. The two who are cast to portray this appear to be comedians at the onset but Bhardwaj with his masterful direction slowly gets across the sinister undercurrents to them, their conscienceless, violent personalities. Informers cultivated by the Indian (and perhaps even Pakistani) agencies in Jammu and Kashmir have always been a problem that the ordinary Kashmir has had to, but hates to, grapple with. These men have managed to imbue Kashmiri society with distrust and suspicion, dividing the bonhomie, and crippling the unity within. The issue of half widows and their trauma I think is handled very sensitively by Bhardwaj. And perhaps best summed up by Tabu when she re-marries her lost husband’s brother and says, “I am a half widow, and a half bride.” Of course this story also suffers from some exaggerations as it is central to the Hamlet plot that Haider follows. But the biggest contribution of Haider is the ability of the director to actually go into the root cause of terrorism in a strange Hamlet kind of way. Haider is just a young boy sent away by his parents to study in Aligarh and thereby

be safe from the security forces and militants both. His father, a doctor with integrity, is treating a militant as well not because he sympathises but because he is a doctor with a conscience. The man needs surgery and the doctor has him brought to his home where he performs the appendix operation and allows the patient to recuperate. Within hours there is a crackdown in the village and the army, acting on a tip off, pick up the doctor. There is an encounter with the militants in the doctors house, and then happens what all Kashmiris speak of with dread. Under a more recent strategy, the Army takes the easy way out and just blows up the house along with surviving militants. This by the way is commonplace strategy now and even articulated in the movie: “dont lose men, blow up the house?” And Tabu sees her home finished, her husband arrested to eventually become a statistic adding to the number of disappearances. Interestingly the Association for Disappeared Persons figures in the film, as part of the efforts of Kashmiris to trace their loved ones. Haider returns to a gutted house, and finds his mother having an affair with her brother-in-law. Hurt and angry, he however turns to the law, and moves from police station to police station trying to find his father. He is humiliated and insulted but does not give up. He is upset, distraught, and does not know how to deal with the loss at all levels. In the midst of this a militant Roohdar, a cameo

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role played to perfection by Irfan, contacts him and in what is clearly a recruitment drive tells him that he was in jail along with his father, that the arrest was a frameup by his father’s brother, and just before dying his father had told him that he should contact Haider and tell him to take revenge. The story then closely follows Haider’s development if it can be called that from an innocent, and rather directionless youth to an angry man consumed by hate and of course confusion. More so as his uncle tells him that his father was killed by Roohdar, and that he would not rest until he found him. Haider is clearly confused here, but his mind is made up against his uncle when his mother decides to marry him. And in the process a violent young man takes birth. And what stuns is the ease with which Bhardwaj brings in the thorny issue of plebiscite and has the main protagonists ---in this case Shahid Kapoor---actually speaking of Kashmir being at the centre of the politics being played by Pakistan and India. And characters within raise the issue of plebiscite as a desired goal, maintaining that this was promised by India’s late Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru himself. Amazing! And the audience in Delhi, as one looked around, watched in silence, staying till the end of the movie and declaring it be “good” as they walked out. This country has changed, the young people have changed but the intolerant seniors, the politicians and the bureaucracy just do not recognise the change. Or is that they recognise it but cannot deal with it? Of course the last 40 odd minutes of the movie become totally Bollywood, over the top and unbelievable. But then Bhardwaj can be excused for this because of the nature of the audience one presumes. However, the first half or more of Haider stays as it is the more powerful part of the long film, controversial, bold and a must see. (If reports that Haider has been banned in Pakistan are indeed true, one can only marvel at the insecurity of the government there. In fact Haider has little to say on Pakistan, it is about Kashmir) Source : The Citizen

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