Voice of Asia oct 3 2014 by VoiceOf Asia

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FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

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Vol. 27 No. 40 Friday, October 3, 2014 • Published Weekly from Houston • 713-774-5140 24Pages ( 2 sections) 50 cents E-mail: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com

Obama makes pitch for affections of Modi government by Stephen COLLINSON WASHINGTON, September 30, 2014 (AFP) - US President Barack Obama on Tuesday hailed the “energy” and “determination” of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ﬂexing the symbolism of his ofﬁce to court the affections of the new Indian government. Modi meanwhile told Obama that he hoped for an agreement “soon” to free up a major global trade facilitation agreement, blocked by the government in New Delhi over concerns its food subsidies to the poor could face legal challenges. The United States sees its relationship with India as crucial to Obama’s strategy of rebalancing US diplomatic weight towards Asia and believes that the world’s oldest democracy, and its largest, are natural partners.

Modi denies wrongdoing and was never charged over the violence that killed more than 1,000 people. Both sides used his debut visit as Indian leader to stress togetherness and common goals: Obama and Modi wrote a joint article for the Continued on Page 11 Right: U.S. President Barack Obama smiles as he hosts a meeting with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Oval Ofﬁce of the White House in Washington September 30, 2014. REUTERS/Larry Downing (UNITED STATES.

IACCGH honors pioneering efforts in Energy, Education, Entrepreneurship, Health Care and Service at its 15th Annual Gala

Yet several spats have disrupted ties in recent months and there have been doubts expressed over whether Modi shares Washington’s hopes for the relationship.

by Manu Shah HOUSTON: The Indo American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston’s (IACCGH) biggest event of the year, the Fifteenth Anniversary Gala, took place at the Hilton Americas on September 27th. The evening saw local business leaders and high ranking professionals networking at the Reception prior to the main event. Several elected ofﬁcials were also present at the 600 strong gathering.

- Color guardModi and Obama ﬁrst met at a private dinner for their delegations in the ornate Blue Room of the White House late on Monday, after the Indian leader arrived in Washington fresh from a triumphant welcome from the Indian diaspora in New York.

At the Reception, Dr. John Mendelsohn, Past President of the MD Anderson Cancer Center presented plaques of appreciation to the major sponsors of the evening. Sheriff Adrian Garcia took the opportunity to greet the gathering with a traditional Namaste and appreciated the work carried out by the Chamber.

White House chefs served up crisp halibut in ginger carrot sauce, though Modi had given advance notice he would not eat as he is in the middle of an annual religious fast. On Tuesday, Modi rode in a black sports utility vehicle, with US and Indian ﬂags ﬂying from the fenders, up to the West Wing of the White House through a US military color guard. Modi’s warm welcome struck a sharp contrast to his previous treatment by Washington, which refused him a visa in 2005 on human rights grounds over anti-Muslim riots in his home state of Gujarat.

The Menil Collection To Present Experiments With Truth: Gandhi And Images Of Nonviolence

Senator John Cornyn (center) GAIL (India) Ltd and its US partners Carrizo Oil& Gas, Inc., Dominion Cove Point LNG and Cheniere Energy, Inc. were also honored for their pioneering efforts in securing India’s energy needs. Photo Credit: Bijay Dixit, Unique Images Studio.

Setting the tone for the evening was the energetic dhol player who led the guests into the ballroom where Chloe Choudhury vowed the audience with her rendition of the Star Spangled Banner as well as the Indian national anthem. Raashi Vats of Fox TV was the EMCEE. Continued on Page 6

Exhibition Traces The Vision And Reality Of Peaceful Social Change As Seen In Art Throughout The Centuries And Around The World

Menil Director Josef Helfenstein gives a preview on Monday, Sep. 29, 2014 of the exhibition: EXPERIMENTS WITH TRUTH: Gandhi and Images of Nonviolence scheduled to open on Thursday, October 2, 2014.

OUSTON, TX, September 26, 2014 — Bringing together paintings and sculptures from half a dozen religious traditions, works of contemporary art, a wealth of documentary images and texts, and as the focal point the ideas and example of Mohandas K. Gandhi, the Menil Collection will present EXPERIMENTS WITH TRUTH: Gandhi and Images of Nonviolence. Organized by Menil Director Josef Helfenstein in consultation with the noted Indian artist Amar Kanwar, the exhibition is the ﬁrst to trace the resonance of the ethic of nonviolence (satyagraha, literally “truth-force,” or the outward, transformative power of inner peace) in the visual arts throughout the centuries and around the world. Opening October 2, 2014 (the 145th anniversary of Gandhi’s birth), EXPERIMENTS WITH TRUTH: Gandhi and Images of Nonviolence will remain on view through

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February 1, 2015. Echoing the title of Gandhi’s autobiography, The Story of My Experiments with Truth (1927), the exhibition presents more than 130 artworks, artifacts, and documents that shed light on the theme of nonviolent change: from a stone sculpture of a meditating Jina (7th century, northeastern India) and a folio of the Qu’ran (mid-7th century, possibly Medina) through an abstract woodcut by Zarina (2013) and a mixed-media work by Theaster Gates (2014). Also on view will be images of ﬁgures from the Abolitionists to Aung San Suu Kyi and the Dalai Lama, dramatic photographs of events in the Civil Rights movement and documents such as a letter by Albert Einstein on resistance to the Holocaust. Origins of the Exhibition Introducing all of the works and set-

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ting the tone for EXPERIMENTS WITH TRUTH will be a memorial image that evokes the radical simplicity Gandhi chose in his life, and his conviction that historic transformation ought to begin “with the individual, at home.” This carefully composed still life, made circa 1948 by an anonymous photographer, shows the only things that Gandhi owned at the time of his death: two pairs of sandals, two dinner bowls, his eyeglasses, a prayer book, and a handful of other small items. “I must have seen this famous photograph for the ﬁrst time as a teenager, when I read Mohandas K. Gandhi’s autobiography,” said Josef Helfenstein. “This captivating image not only felt like a portrait in absentia of a charismatic person but an allegory of an extraordinary way of life. Continued on Page 8

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OP-ED/COMMENTARY/ANALYSIS

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Narendra Modi and Barack Obama talk about a renewed U.S.India partnership for the 21st century

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

Forward and together in progress

s nations committed to democracy, liberty, diversity and enterprise, India and the United States are bound by common values and mutual interests. We have each shaped the positive trajectory of human history, and through our joint efforts, our natural and unique partnership can help shape international security and peace for years to come. Ties between the United States and India are rooted in the shared desire of our citizens for justice and equality. When Swami Vivekananda presented Hinduism as a world religion, he did so at the 1893 World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago. When Martin Luther King Jr. sought to end discrimination and prejudice against African Americans, he was inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s nonviolent teachings. Gandhiji himself drew upon the writings of Henry David Thoreau. Robust partnership As nations, we have partnered over the decades to deliver progress to our people. The people of India remember the strong foundations of our cooperation. The food production increases of the Green Revolution and the Indian Institutes of Technology are among the many products of our collaboration. Today, our partnership is robust, reliable and enduring, and it is expanding. Our relationship involves more bilateral collaboration than ever before — not just at the federal level but also at the State and local levels, between our two militaries, private sectors and civil society. Indeed, so much has happened that, in 2000, Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee could declare that we are natural allies. After many years of growing cooperation since, on any given day, our students work together on research projects, our scientists develop cutting-edge tech-

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US President Barack Obama with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the dinner hosted in his honour at the White House in Washington on Monday evening. nology and senior officials consult closely on global issues. Our militaries conduct joint exercises in air, on land and at sea, and our space programmes engage in unprecedented areas of cooperation, leading us from Earth to Mars. And in this partnership, the Indian-American community has been a vibrant, living bridge between us. Its success has been the truest reflection of the vitality of our people, the value of America’s open society and the strength of what we can do when we join together. Still, the true potential of our relationship has yet to be fully realised. The advent of a new government in India is a natural opportunity to broaden and deepen our relationship. With a reinvigorated level of ambition and greater confidence, we can go beyond modest and conventional goals. It is time to set a new agenda, one that realises concrete benefits for our citizens. This will be an agenda that enables us to find mutually rewarding ways to expand our collaboration in trade, investment and technology that harmonise with India’s ambitious development agenda, while sustaining the United States as the global engine of growth. When we meet today in Washington, we will discuss ways in which we can boost manufac-

turing and expand affordable renewable energy, while sustainably securing the future of our common environment. We will discuss ways in which our businesses, scientists and governments can partner as India works to improve the quality, reliability and availability of basic services, especially for the poorest of citizens. In this, the United States stands ready to assist. An immediate area of concrete support is the “Clean India” campaign, where we will leverage private and civil society innovation, expertise and technology to improve sanitation and hygiene throughout India. While our shared efforts will benefit our own people, our partnership aspires to be larger than merely the sum of its parts. As nations, as people, we aspire to a better future for all; one in which our strategic partnership also produces benefits for the world at large. While India benefits from the growth generated by U.S. investment and technical partnerships, the United States benefits from a stronger, more prosperous India. In turn, the region and the world benefit from the greater stability and security that our friendship creates. We remain committed to the larger effort to integrate South Asia and connect it with markets and people in Central and Southeast Asia.

Collaborative areas As global partners, we are committed to enhancing our homeland security by sharing intelligence, through counterterrorism and law-enforcement cooperation, while we jointly work to maintain freedom of navigation and lawful commerce across the seas. Our health collaboration will help us tackle the toughest of challenges, whether combating the spread of Ebola, researching cancer cures or conquering diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria and dengue. And we intend to expand our recent tradition of working together to empower women, build capacity and improve food security in Afghanistan and Africa. The exploration of space will continue to ﬁre our imaginations and challenge us to raise our ambitions. That we both have satellites orbiting Mars tells its own story. The promise of a better tomorrow is not solely for Indians and Americans: It also beckons us to move forward together for a better world. This is the central premise of our deﬁning partnership for the 21st century. Forward, together we go — chalein saath saath. (Narendra Modi is the Prime Minister of India. Barack Obama is the President of the United States. This joint editorial appeared in the Washington Post on September 30, 2014.)

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C OMMUNITY VOICE OF ASIA

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

Second Front Page

Friday, October 3, 2014 • www.voiceofasiaonline.com • Page 3 • Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com • Tel: 713-774-5140

Vedanta Society of Greater Houston welcomes Maa Durga of Evil) were some of the songs that were sung by the devotees. ‘Songs atune to the worship, songs are performed according to the worship of the deity. For example, you’ll hear Ganesh Vandana during Ganesh puja, Shiv Vandana during Shiv puja,’ said Ashok Dasgupta, coordinator of Durga Puja activities. Unlike many other pujas, the Durga Puja organized by the Vedanta Society does not have any sponsor. ‘We operate on generous donations from devotees, and every year we perform with the generous donations.’, added Dasgupta. With the mission of keeping it religious, every year the Vedanta Society performs the Durga Puja, and last year they celebrated their 10 years anniversary. Following the Belur Math policies, the Vedanta Society identiﬁes themselves as a private center of the Ram Krishna Mission, Belur Math, India.

Swami Kripamayananda, (orange robes) Minister and Head, Vedanta Society of Toronto seen performing the puja Sadhu and Vedic chants formed an OUSTON - The autumn integral part as Swami Kripamasky resonated with the dhol yananda, Minister and Head, Vedanta beats along with the swaying Society of Toronto performed the kaash phool (fox tails) as Mother Du- puja. Aji Shonkhe Shonkhe Mangala rga accompanied by her four children, Gao (Sing auspicious along with the was brought from the temple premis- conch shells of today), Guru Brahma es on the event of Durga Puja which Guru Vishnu Guru Deva Maheshtook place at the Vedanta Society of wara, (Lord Brahma Lord Vishnu Greater Houston on 27th September, Lord Maheshwara), Durge Durge Durgati Nashinee (Durga the Destroyer 2014. Following the traditional Bengali ritual, uludhwani (a special chant) and shonkhodhwani (conch shell sounds) echoed at the background announcing the inauguration of puja (worship) and having the Kalabou (Banana Plant observed as Ganesha’s wife) getting dressed. Shantigeeti (peace songs) led by Chandralekha Offerings made to Durga Maa by the devotees.

The puja could gradually get the devotees’ involvement as they pronounced the Sanskrit chant ‘Hing Om Durga Oyi Namah’ (Reverence to Durga) as per Swami Kripamayananda’s direction. Swamiji’s words, ‘Mother understands everything.’ let devotees pronounce in Bengali. Arati followed accompanied with dhol beats, kashar

ghonta (instrument) and shonkhodhwani. ‘It’s like understanding your connection to the universe,’ said Helen Pal, recently converted to Hinduism. Devotees could get the opportunity to reach out to the Mother through the Pushpanjali (offering of ﬂowers). Engaged in rapt attention the devotees pronounced the Sanskrit chants following the direction of Swamiji along with ﬂowers in their hands. ‘They don’t make any difference. We are all carrying the same seed of universal consciousness which creates this oneness,’said Ion Pal, another recent converted Hindu follower. The puja had the opportunity to recall a speech given by Swami Vivekananda on a Sunday afternoon in New York in 1900. Budhdhadeb Guha recited the speech on the worship of Mother, which said, ‘Mother is the most impartial energy’. The Vedanta Society exhibited books on Sri Ram Krishna, Swami Vivekananda, Sarada Devi so as to enlighten eager minds. ‘Durga Puja is a means to remove all obstacles in the path of our goal,’ said Swami Kripamayananda. A sumptuous lunch followed which included naan, paneer, rice, dal, dessert and prasadam(food from the worship).

by Somdatta Gangopadhyay

A section of the audience at the VSGH Durga Puja event. Photos by Somdatta Gangopadhyay.

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COMMUNITY

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

A Time for Peace - Srimati Kamala

The People’s Lawyer www.peopleslawyer.net Richard M. Alderman Interim Dean of the Law Center

A seller has a duty to disclose material information Q. Does a landlord have to disclose that a vicious murder occurred in an apartment? He fixed-up and cleaned the apartment so there was no evidence of the crime. I rented the unit and didn’t find out about the murder until a neighbor told me. There is no way I would have rented this unit if I knew its history. I want out. A. Under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act, a person selling or renting “goods or services” has a “duty to disclose.” The term “goods” includes real estate, such as an apartment. It is a violation of this law to fail to disclose, “information concerning goods or services which was known at the time of the transaction if such failure to disclose such information was intended to induce the consumer into a transaction into which the consumer would not have entered had the information been disclosed.” This means a seller or lessor must disclose any material fact that he knows will matter to the buyer or renter. If he intentionally does not disclose information to get the person to buy or rent, he violates this law. The buyer or renter would have the right to get out of the transaction and sue for up to three times his or her damages. Although it sometimes can be difficult to determine what information is material and would be important to a buyer or renter, my opinion is that any reasonable landlord knows that a tenant would care if there were a vicious murder in an apartment. The failure of a landlord to disclose this information violates the Deceptive Trade Practices Act. I suggest you let the landlord know you know about this law and try to resolve the problem. If you cannot, you should speak with a local consumer attorney. Q. My father moved in with a woman about half his age. At first, everyone in the family got along well with his new “girlfriend.” Now, we barely speak. We have been told that my father changed his will to leave everything to his girlfriend. I was told that you couldn’t disinherit a child in Texas. Is that true? A. No, it is not true. In Texas, a person has the right to leave as much or as little as he or she wants to a child. Basically, the law says that as long as you are competent and not under any undue influence or duress, the decision of who inherits your property is entirely up to you. If a person wants to “disinherit” some or all of his children, he has a legal right to do so. The only question would be whether your father was competent when he signed the will, and what influence, if any, his girlfriend exercised over him. Q. I gave a debt collector a postdated check to get him to stop harassing me. He cashed it almost a month early. As a result, I bounced several other checks and had to pay over $200 in bank fees. How can the bank pay the check? Do I have any legal rights? A. You have legal rights, but not against the bank. Under the law, a bank generally may pay a postdated check before its date, unless you have given the bank notice that you postdated the check. The debt collector, however, has violated the law by depositing the check early. He should be liable for your loss as well as possible punitive damages. I suggest you send him a certified letter asking for the fees you paid, and consider small claims court if you are not reimbursed. In the future, don’t ever give a postdated check, unless you are prepared for it to be deposited early. Remember, the next session of the People’s Law School will be held the morning of October 4th in Houston. This free program teaches short classes in fourteen different areas of law. Knowing the law can help avoid problems and resolve disputes. To learn more about the People’s Law School or register for the classes, go to www.peopleslawer.net

Read your community stories Online www.voiceofasiaonline.com

ooking at our present world it seems that there are struggles and discordance everywhere. The din of confrontation and threats of violence are all around – among nations, within societies and especially within individual. World leaders as well as the common citizen long for a time for peace that must come. But how, from where, and what kind of peace? Mahatma Gandhi, the most universally quoted man in the United Nations, is broadly heralded as the philosopher of peace for the modern world. He is more than that. Surrounded by violence he was yet an architect of peace. He knew and lived peace so that he could apply it to violence and emerge victorious. His method was perfect according to the laws of the cosmic nature as he observed them, and therefore his peace is a peace practicable by the human nature which is parcel of it. But like the profoundest and simplest of philosophical truths, Gandhi’s is too often misunderstood, misapplied or altogether ignored. The popular misunderstanding about peace is that it is a group contrivance-that it can be legislated or physically enforced. Even with respect to present day “satyagrahis” there has been exploitation of the “peaceful” means Gandhi employed as some seemingly sincere followers have used “noncooperation” as a kind of political blackmail. Gandhi admonished against the use of nonviolence as such coercion which makes adversaries of the parties and then becomes a kind of punishment. What Gandhi comprehended, advocated and----most important-lived, is a complete yoga of peace. The truth of it, as he confessed, is “as old as the hills”. The idea of returning love and forgiveness for hatred and injury was not, of course, invented by Gandhi. Krishna revealed to Arjuna that he who mortiﬁes or abuses the body does injustice to the Self residing within. Buddha taught directly that ahimsa(noninjury) is the highest dharma(principle) of life. Patanjali’s ﬁrst percept of yama which includes abstention from injurious thought, word or deed. Gandhi himself referred often to the teachings of Christ to “Love thy neighbor as thyself;” to “resist not evil;” and to “bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you.” At the time of the Second Round Table Conference in London (1933), an English lady observed it “strange that Christians should feel that the best Christian in the world today is

Hindu.” In a “Christian world” it seems that from the of Christ few have understood his teachings of how to meet evil. No great leader of the Christian Church has ever proclaimed nonviolence as the WAY to salvation. The ethical validity for using moral force rather than brute force was preached by Leo Tolstoy whom Gandhi called the greatest apostle of nonviolence that the modern age had produced, Thoreau’s “Essay on Civil Disobedience” influenced Gandhi’s design for peace, and the phrase and the concept, “the moral equivalent of war,” was introduced by William James. But Gandhi’s life is a profound marriage of the metaphysical realities of peace and its meaningful human manifestation. In fact, Gandhi stands as a landmark towards which our evolving consciousness of peace will progress: “The greatest power in the world is that of the Soul. Peace is its highest expression. To attain peace, first we must acquire greater mastery over ourselves. We secure then an atmosphere of perfect peace, calm and goodwill that protects and fortifies ourselves and bless others around us.” “Peace requires one first to BE brave enough to love another, to tolerate another, and to trust another. That requires faith in oneself. One has not the strength to be peaceful if he is fighting the internal duel of selfish desires. Good can never result from evil desires or actions; hence, the GITA’s central teaching of the oneness of the means and ends. The practice of peace is thus a test of the sincerity of our hearts; it requires solid and silent self-sacrifice, honesty and the capacity for diligent work, but must be realized first in its source within.” Gandhi of course decried the physical violence of war, but his motivation was the perfection of human nature and character. “Behind the death-dealing bomb there is the human hand that releases it, and behind that still is the heart that sets the hand in motion……Human nature will find itself only when it realizes that to be human it has to cease to be beastly or brutal.” War is glorification of brute force, and therefore it is essentially degrading and demoralizing to the human spirit. Gandhi wanted to see us train ourselves in the realization of soul-force daily through the common actions of self-restraint, unselfishness and patience. “these are the flowers,” he said, “which

spring beneath the feet of those who accept but refuse to impose suffering.” “A Time for Peace” addresses not only our global issues, but also our individual cultivation of peace as the first requisite to world peace. Gandhi himself exemplified this in several ways, especially by acknowledging his heeding of the “still small voice” of his consciousness of peace within. He also set the practice of daily prayer meetings and, though a man of intense and almost continuous action, he tried to observe one day of silent self-examination per week to establish his own inner peace. Even though his practice of vegetarianism, which he originally followed only out of acceptance of a cast injunction, he evolved to a belief in man’s responsibility to care for lower animals and thus to uphold God’s plan for a peaceable kingdom throughout nature. Gandhi demonstrated that it is not necessary or even desirable to lead a life apart from responsibilities, associations, and activities in order to find stillness and peace. The “cloistered” life is not a full and natural one. For most, retiring to cave-like seclusion in order to find inner peace would mean disaster. Their minds would still be whirring with thoughts, impressions and desires from their involvements with the bustling world they left. The way to leave the world is not to reject it! Furthermore, love and service in the cave of solitude? Gandhiji heeded these teachings of BHAGAVAD GITA he so loved: “…..the man who has attained perfect control over his mind and complete mastery over his senses, who is free from attachment and aversion, while living in the world of sense objects, he realizes peace. Impossible is the attainment of wisdom by the uncontrolled mind. Impossible is meditation for the restless. Peace can never be attained without meditation. And unless one has realized peace within, where else can one find it?” (Ch , II, verses 64 and 66) Translation by Swami Premananda From Mahatma Gandhi – An American Profile by Srimati Kamala To pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, please join Gandhi Jayanti celebrated as 1000 Lights for Peace on Sunday, October 6, 2013 at Miller Outdoor Theatre from 6 PM to 8 PM. For more information, please visit www.gandhilibrary.org or call 713-829-6979.

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VOICE OF ASIA 5

by Dinesh Shah, MBA, PE

merican Society of Indian Engineers (ASIE) held their twentieth anniversary gala at the Hilton Post Oak Houston on September 24, 2014. The red, white, and blue color theme of the event added the professional celebratory touch among the guests. ASIE President, Sekhar Ambadapudi seen The blue color receiving proclamation Judge Ed Emmett backdrop with flags and hanging performed by ASIE. He said, banners with a long list of spon“Historically, the experienced sors demonstrated the feeling of and well established members pride and honor, as these comof ASIE have provided guidpanies provided the outstanding ance and encouragement to the service to the Greater Houston young and dynamic generaEngineering and Architectural tion of the future. We strive to Community for many years provide a unified voice for our and also extended their support members and the community to ASIE. The event was a full we live and work within.” house and it was an unexpected This Landmark event was graa large turnout of almost 400 guests. Their generous dona- ciously attended by Hon. Judge tions for this year’s gala will Ed Emmett of Harris County as enable ASIE to raise enough a Keynote Speaker. Also Mr. money to meet the budget for Jimmie Schindewolf, a Genthe scholarships to the college eral Manager of North Harris students pursuing undergradu- County Regional Water Authorate and graduate degrees in en- ity (NHCRWA) was invited as a gineering programs from pub- Chief Guest for the event. They lic universities in the Greater congratulated ASIE and complimented Indo-American engiHouston Area. neers, architects, designers, and Sanjay Ram, a professional technicians for the important engineer and two times past role they play in Harris County president of ASIE and Komal and City of Houston for many Bansal, an engineering student diversified and all engineering were the emcees for the event. discipline projects. The current Vice President of The anniversary gala celebraASIE and a this year’s Gala Chair, Showri Nandagiri in his tion highlighted two-fold goals welcome remarks applauded the of ASIE - “building the future sponsors and their guests and for young engineers and archithank Gala Committee Chairs tects” and second is “recogniincluded Fund Raising – Vishal tion of Outstanding Engineers Merchant, Food and Venue – and Architects who served for Mahendra Korivi, Publicity – long in Houston area. The first Dinesh Shah, Reception – Raj recognition was “ASIE Class of Basavaraju, Program – Chetan 2013” started last year by Vishal Vyas, Finance – Naresh Kolli, Merchant, a young engineer and Silent Auction – Ravi Raj Yana- an immediate past President. mandala, Souvenir – Srinivas At the time inception he said, Chintalapati, Recognition of “This year we will recognize Class of 2014 – Krishna Vavila- 11 professional engineers and la, and he added “It was obvi- architects for their illustrious ous to me that getting the right careers, accomplishments, inpeople in the right place was the genuity, entrepreneurship and contributions to the Indo-Amerkey to a successful function”. ican Society and the society as The 20th ASIE President, a whole. These Honorees come Sekhar Ambadapudi in his adfrom different walks of the engidress shared twenty years of hisneering and architectural fields, tory of the organization with a however they share one thing in remarkable list of technical and common and that is their dediprofessional activities and goals

COMMUNITY

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

ASIE Celebrated 20th Anniversary Gala - A Resounding Success

ASIE Class of 2014 Awardees – L to R – Durga Agrawal, Ram Gupta, Sam Kannappan, Showri Nandagiri, and Randhir Sahni, architect with Hon Harris County Judge Ed Emmett far left and Mr. Jimmie Schindewolf, General manager of NHCRWA on right. Photos by Navin Mediwala. cation to their disciplines. This enthusiasm and commitment has resulted in decades of creativity and thousands of projects not only in Houston, but all over the country. We the young generation, look up to them as our role models and inspiration as we move forward in our professional careers.” Today, there are more than one thousand engineers and architects of Indian origin reside in Greater Houston area and contributing to engineering and technical industries. Many of them have excelled in their ﬁelds as entrepreneurs and professionals, but out of which there are many hidden jewels of ASIE, who has made a difference. So the need has been felt to recognize their achievements again this year. So ASIE selected ﬁve professionals for “ASIE Class of 2014” awards, which included Durga Aggrawal, Showri Nandagiri, Sam Kannappan, Ram Gupta and an architect Randhir Sahni. Their accomplishments were read by emcee and each one was honored with an award, which was presented by Judge Emmett and Mr. Schindewolf. During the three course delicious dinner and remarkable brief speeches, the cultural entertainment was performed by students. The program was concluded with announcements of

silent auction and vote of thanks by Ravi Raj Yanamandala and Chetan Vyas. The house full event was the evidence of a successful twenty years growth of the ASIE and its vision to reach out more and more young professionals who work and practice in the Greater Houston Area. ABOUT ASIE, a Houston, Texas based non-proﬁt organization was established in 1994 with an objective to provide networking and professional development opportunities through continuing educational seminars, workshops and ﬁeld trips to all discipline engineers, architects, designers and technicians of Indian origin in Greater Houston Area. Over twenty years period the organization has been involved in diverse activities such as annual participation in Mathcounts competition sponsored by Texas Society of Professional Engineers (TBPE), volunteering as judges during Science & Engineering Fair of Houston, offering scholarship to engineering students and Disaster Relief Fundraising. From 1999 ASIE began the Young Engineer/Architect of the Year Award and from 2011 ASIE Engineer/Architect of the Year Award for the members, who have excelled in

the ﬁeld of engineering. From this year during the Engineer’s Week another award has been added – “Indian Engineers En-

gineering the Future”. For further information about ASIE, please visit www.asiehouston.org

VOICE OF ASIA 6

COMMUNITY

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

IACCGH honors pioneering efforts in Energy, Education, Entrepreneurship, Health Care and Service at its 15th Annual Gala Continued from page 1 Dubbed by Senator John Cornyn as “the glue” that holds the Chamber together and by IACCGH President Sanjay Ramabhadran as the name that is “synonymous” with the Chamber, Executive Director Jagdip Ahluwalia welcomed the gathering. He reflected that the Chamber had created a strong relationship with local economic agencies over the past 15 years which “continues to this day.” He expressed his pride at the Chamber’s achievements in the energy and education sector as well as the “job creation that’s happening.” He encouraged everyone to go through the Gala magazine to get a full picture of the Chamber’s history, work and accomplishments over the past 15 years. IACCGH President, Sanjay Ramabhadran profiled IACCGH’s mission and asserted that the Chamber has over the years “Built bridges for business here in the Greater Houston region and with India” According to him, this was due to the zeal of its Past Presidents, Board Members and Advisors who helped propel the organization along the right path. IACCGH has set the stage for multiple trade delegations to India in the coming months. Previous trade missions have resulted in the opening of the Mahindra facility in Harris County and while Trade Missions may “take time to fruition” they reinforce the Chamber’s efforts to create local jobs. President Ramabhadran remarked that the Chamber’s networking events reflect diversity of business opportunities and people and if “properly tapped” will pay huge dividends.” In short, IACCGH’s efforts have made “a direct impact on the Houston economy” and delivered tangible results over the last 15 years. A congratulatory video message from India’s Consul General P. Harish in Houston and Mayor Annise Parker was played. Senior US Senator for Texas and Keynote Speaker at the Gala, Senator John Cornyn warmly congratulated the Chamber for helping strengthen the critically important US India partnership. He noted that in the last two decades, organizations like the IACCGH have played an important role in deepening and strengthening cooperation between the two great democracies. He also referred to the milestone achieved by India last week in joining the exclusive club of countries to orbit Mars and saw opportunities for collaboration with NASA’s space mission in Houston. Referring to India and the US as natural allies, he believed that this kind of ideological bond between the two nations translates into a powerful partnership on the world stage. India represents a massive opportunity for the US which is why the idea of form-

Senator John Cornyn seen presenting the Pioneer Award for Public Service to Judge Ravi K. Sandill. Also seen are IACCGH President Sanjay Ramabhadran (far lt) and Chamber, Executive Director Jagdip Ahluwalia Photo Credit: Bijay Dixit, Unique Images Studio.

Senator Cornyn seen presenting the Pioneer Award for Healthcare. to Dr. Devinder Bhatia,

Sonal Bhuchar seen receiving Pioneer Award for Education from Senator Cornyn Pioneer. Also seen are Dr. Durga and Susheela Agrawal.

The Entrepreneurs of the Year Award being presented to the couple Pallavi and Pinakin Dinesh by Senator Cornyn

ing an India Caucus came to him appropriately enough at the Taj Mahal. Founded in 2004, India is the only single country Caucus and it is a great recognition of the strategic alliance between the two nations. There is little doubt that the two nations have made great progress together with trade having grown by 500% since 2000.

tion went to Sonal Bhuchar for “being a wonderful Ambassador for public schools in Fort Bend.”

However there are several priorities that the US needs to focus on – the primary one being the export of LNG to India. Under the current laws, US companies need to seek federal approval to export LNG. Senator Cornyn pushed for legislation to accelerate this process and believed that this will be good for the US, good for our partnership and good for our mutual strategic interests. He also referred to the growing threat of terrorism and stated that the US cannot afford to neglect India, its strategic partner and closest friend in that region and the two countries need each other to tackle the threat of terrorism.

Referring to PM Narendra Modi’s visit to the US as a historic opportunity to make our partnership stronger, he regretted the fact that due to the timing of the session, the US could not host PM Modi at the joint session of the Congress but will surely do so in the future Chief Guest of the evening, Judge Ed Emmett referred to PM Modi’s “rock star welcome” and believed that “India is our future.” He was proud to take a trade mission to India in December and stated that it was not just a trade mission but “a partnership.” According to him, India is not just “an economic partner but a spiritual partner as well.” IACCGH also recognized the professional and public service achievements of members of the Indo American community. The Entrepreneurs of the Year Award went to Pallavi and Pinakin Dinesh, for their entrepreneurial venture Amzer, a company that today “spans ﬁve continents” while the Pioneer Award for Educa-

The recipient of the Pioneer Award for Public Service was Judge Ravi K. Sandill for being the “South Asian voice for issues that concern the community,” while Dr. Devinder Bhatia, “a brilliant and skilled cardiovascular surgeon” was honored with the Pioneer Award for Healthcare. GAIL (India) Ltd and its US partners Carrizo Oil& Gas, Inc., Dominion Cove Point LNG and Cheniere Energy, Inc. were also honored for their pioneering efforts in securing India’s energy needs. Accepting the award, President of GAIL (Global) USA, Inc., Jayanta Sinha observed that GAIL is the ﬁrst public sector company from India to have such a relationship with the US. The awards were presented by Senator Cornyn. Mondira Tangri, who retired last year after having worked with the Chamber for more than a decade, was

also honored for her years of service to the Chamber. Executive Director, Jagdip Ahluwalia aptly commented that this was “the ﬁrst Gala where she got to sit back and enjoy.” Event coordinator, Therese Cole Hubbs of Electric Karma International and emcee Rashi Vats were also felicitated. President Elect for the year 2015, Ashok Garg, gave the vote of thanks and outlined his plans for the coming year. He thanked Shell, United Airlines and the other sponsors for their generosity and appreciated Dr. Durga and Sushila Agrawal, Dr. Neil Badlani and Rekha Muddaraj, Avinash and Peggy Ahuja and Umesh and Preeti Verma for being the Gala CoChairs. A delicious dinner by Dawat Catering (Madras Pavilion) was served to the guests while Frost 321 whipped up the smoothest ice creams using liquid nitrogen right before your eyes. MoodaFaruka provided the entertainment for the evening.

Chinmaya Mission of Houston celebrates Navratri by Uma Aggarwal and Vinod Sharma

OUSTON - Navratri means nine nights which are dedicated to Mother – the Adi Sakti. This beautiful festival comes every year but just like the rising sun has a new charm every single day, similarly year after year it ﬂourishes the devotees’ hearts with new enthusiasm and devotion. Friday night marked yet another annual celebration of Navaratri for Chinmaya Mission Houston family. The festive scene at the Stafford Center was resplendent in colorful decorations as the members entered the main Garaba Hall. The joyous atmosphere with members dressed in colorful saris, chaniya cholis and Indian ethnic clothes, the warm greetings of “Hari Om” and “Happy Navaratri” amongst the member and delicious food catered by Madras Pavilion delighted adults, youth and children alike. This devotional celebration of Navratri began precisely at 7:00 PM with prayers to Goddesses Durga, Sarasvati and Lakshmi who embody the three female qualities of courage, wealth and knowledge; and invocation to Pujya Gurudeva Swami Chinmayananda. To watch CMH family members dancing around the center decorations to the rhythm of the beats was a treat to everyone’s eyes. But most of all it was the music, melodious singing of talented singers juxtaposed on reverberating music that was impossible to resist dancing too. A special music team consisting of singers, Ruchira Shah, Rucha Sheth, Priya Mohan, Badal Dave, with Darshak Thaker on drums, Kamal Haji on Key board and Srinivasan Raju as stage manager worked very hard to put up melodious music that consisted of mixture of classic and new Garabas. The MC Mr. Devang Shelat was very energetic, full of life and humor and energized all the danceers, himself dancing on the stage.

Men, wonmen and children dance to the lively garba beat. Photos by Jayesh Mistry

A special treat in music was Sanedo sung by the music team, which was especially written for Chinmaya Mission in Hindi by mission’s very own poetess Uma Aggarwal. Devotion and joy that ﬁlled hearts spilled over and was shared by all as they reveled in the oneness, togetherness and connection. This Navaratri celebration brought joy to each and every one in a special way. One long term Mission member felt that the dance helped her to bask in the joy of oneness – the central theme of Vedanta teaching. For another member it was a great occasion to connect with the Mission family at large - reinforce existing relationships, catch with old friends and learn more about acquaintances. Then for One Balavihar high school student it was pure fun to celebrate with her classmates. She said “As a

child, I remember seeing all the older kids doing complicated and fun steps during Dandiya, but this year I was ﬁnally old enough to be one of those older kids.” There was a huge sense of unity among all members – children, high school students, young adults, past students and adults, CHYKs all dancing in the same line, and while it was tiring, it was a blast, dancing with all my friends. For more information on Chinmaya Mission Houston and Sri Saumyakasi Sivalaya and, its activities visit www.chinmayahouston.org or Call Jay Deshmukh 832 541 0059 or Bharati Sutaria 281-933-0233 Right: Hundreds of devotees participate in the Navratri puja seen here doing the aarti.

VOICE OF ASIA 8

COMMUNITY

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

THE MENIL COLLECTION TO PRESENT EXPERIMENTS WITH TRUTH: GANDHI AND IMAGES OF NONVIOLENCE

Exhibition Traces The Vision And Reality Of Peaceful Social Change As Seen In Art Throughout The Centuries And Around The World Continued from Page 1

the world, while serving as a vehicle for commissioning essays and other material surrounding the exhibition. Scheduled to go live one month before the opening of EXPERIMENTS WITH TRUTH, The Gandhi Website will also feature a live connection to Amar Kanwar’s Sovereign Forest installation and archive in Orissa.

It was when I started working at the Kunstmuseum Bern that a vague idea emerged that this enigmatic image deserved a more thorough examination. The idea of using it as the catalyst for a project happened in 1998, when the Indian architect Charles Correa gave a lecture at the Kunstmuseum about his design for the memorial museum at Gandhi’s Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad. A conversation with Correa encouraged me to begin formulating the idea of an exhibition, which continued to gestate after I had the opportunity to meet Professor Rajmohan Gandhi, grandson of the Mahatma, at the University of Illinois. “But it was only when I arrived in Houston at the Menil Collection, in 2004, that the idea of a project focusing on Gandhi and images of nonviolence seemed at last to have found the right place to be brought to fruition. There are beautiful works of art and compelling artifacts and documents in this exhibition—and although they may be drawn from different and sometimes distant cultures, I have learned over the many years of conceptualizing this project that they are not unrelated. Our goal is to allow for an undistracted, not didactically over-orchestrated experience of these works, in the hope of eliciting a deeper understanding of their dialogue. Together, they speak to an ancient, complex topic that has concerned humankind throughout history: how to deal with and overcome violence through nonviolent means.”

The exhibition is accompanied by a fully illustrated book of the same title published by the Menil Collection and distributed by Yale University Press. The book is edited by Josef Helfenstein and Joseph N. Newland, with Amar Kanwar as artistic advisor and Vinay Lal, Associate Professor of History at UCLA, as historical advisor. Following the presentation of EXPERIMENTS WITH TRUTH: Gandhi and Images of Nonviolence at the Menil Collection, the exhibition will travel to the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum in Geneva.

Menil Director Josef Helfenstein gives a preview on Monday, Sep. 29, 2014 of the exhibition: EXPERIMENTS WITH TRUTH: Gandhi and Images of Nonviolence scheduled to open on Thursday, October 2, 2014.

In Houston, EXPERIMENTS WITH TRUTH will be central to a city-wide commemoration of the ideas, achievement, and life of Mohandas K. Gandhi, celebrated from October 2014 through January 2015 at various sites within the Menil campus and at other cultural organizations throughout the city.

Artworks and objects in the exhibition are drawn from the holdings of the Menil Collection, private collections, and institutions including the Rothko Chapel, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, the Holocaust Museum Houston, the McNay Art Museum, the Morgan Library & Museum, the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, Yale University Art Gallery, the Library of Congress, the National Portrait Gallery, Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson, and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum. On View in EXPERIMENTS WITH TRUTH Gandhi’s Final Moments and the Memorialization of His Predecessors: Experiments with Truth begins with a gallery dedicated to photographs by Margaret Bourke-White and Henri Cartier-Bresson showing Gandhi toward the end of his life and the events surrounding his funeral. Posters and magazine photographs that testify to the reverence he was accorded after his assassination lead the way toward objects that show how other revered public figures, notably Abraham Lincoln, have been depicted after death. Having opened this historical perspective, the exhibition presents 19th-century photographs and documents of figures associated with spiritually inspired movements for social change: Henry David Thoreau, Sojourner Truth, Clara Barton, Florence Nightingale, Henry Dunant (the founder of the Red Cross), and two authors who were especially influential on Gandhi, John Ruskin and Leo Tolstoy. Also included in this initial gallery is a selection of Indian carpets (which evoke Gandhi’s emphasis on handcraft) and the sculpture Prayer Wheel (1954) by Jean Tinguely. Religious Traditions of Selflessness and Compassion: In the next gallery are major works of art that exemplify the complex iconography and diverse artistic visualizations of inner peace and self-control in different world religions, including devotional sculptures, paintings, and manuscripts from the religious traditions that informed Gandhi’s thinking. Works on view will include a mid-7th-century folio from a Qu’ran in Hijazi script, possibly from Medina; a 9th-century copper sculpture of a meditating Jina, from southern India; an 11th-century sandstone Head of an Ascetic from the Candella dynasty of central India; a 15th-century thangka of Buddha from the Ladakh region of the Himalayas; a 16th-century Persian illuminated manuscript page depicting the funeral of the Sufi poet Rumi; a 17th-century icon of Saint Onophrius by the Cretan painter Emmanuel Lambardos, and an etching of St. Francis Praying by Rembrandt (1657). Nonviolent Resistance in Action: This section of the exhibition will focus on images of figures and events associated with Abolitionism, the Civil Rights era, and the struggle against apartheid, among other movements, up through the activities surrounding the Dalai Lama and Aung San Suu Kyi. Also on view are photographs by Eve Arnold, Bruce L. Davidson, and Danny Lyon showing the color line being crossed during the Civil Rights era; a United Farm Workers poster of Cesar Chavez; and the medal designed by Jim Love (1981) for the Truth and Freedom Awards at the Rothko Chapel. Drawings, prints, portrait photo-

Gandhi’s last possessions. 1948. Photographer unknown. Menil

This carefully composed still life, made circa 1948 by an anonymous photographer, shows the only things that Gandhi owned at the time of his death: two pairs of sandals, two dinner bowls, his eyeglasses, a prayer book, and a handful of other small items. graphs, and news photographs mingle with a variety of artworks, including Marlene Dumas’s portraits of Nelson Mandela (2004-08), René Magritte’s painting Le Survivant (The Survivor) (1950), and Robert Gober’s untitled installation evoking the sky as glimpsed through a prison window (2003). Creative Responses to a World Distorted by Violence: Photographs from 1961 by Shomei Tomatsu, evoking the nuclear bombing of Japan through images of humble everyday objects damaged in the blasts, introduce a gallery devoted to creative responses to a world torn by violence. Among the works on view are Yves Klein’s painting Hiroshima (c. 1961), Ai Weiwei’s Feet (2002), Barnett Newman’s drawing for the sculpture Broken Obelisk (1963) and his painting Be I (1949), and Robert Rauschenberg’s lithograph Landmark (1968). Religious Traditions of Charity and Social Action: As a counterpart to the images of asceticism and compassion, a gallery dedicated to the charitable ideal will present objects such as the statue of a Green Tara (India, 9th-10th century), a female Bodhisattva of compassion and action; a wood sculpture of St. Martin and the Beggar (the Netherlands, c. 1500-1510); and Rembrandt’s Hundred Guilder Print (Christ Healing the Sick), 1649. Abstract works on paper by Agnes Martin, Suzan Frecon, and Zarina that evoke a sense of fragility, meditativeness,

and concentrated action are shown alongside a fragment of a Qur’an folio of Islamic calligraphy made by the grandson of a conqueror who late in life became a proponent of peace. The Division Gandhi Sought to Avoid: In the final gallery, photographs by Henri Cartier-Bresson show the devastation that resulted from the partition of India and Pakistan. A mixed-media work by Shilpa Gupta, 1:14.9 (2011-12) represents the length of the border between India and Pakistan in the form of a hand-wound ball of thread. Amar Kanwar’s widely acclaimed installation A Season Outside (1997)—one of the best-known of the subtle and poetic film and video works of this New Delhi-based artist—shows the inflammatory military ritual at the India-Pakistan border and the burdensome, artificial separation imposed on the people of the region, juxtaposed with texts and images that recall Gandhi’s insistence on nonvio-

Menil Director Josef Helfenstein seen here in one of the galleries of the exhibition: EXPERIMENTS WITH TRUTH: Gandhi and Images of Nonviolence scheduled to open on Thursday, October 2, 2014. lence as a form of active, peaceful intervention. Additional galleries contain contemporary works by artists including Mark Rothko, Andy Warhol, William Kentridge, and Kimsooja, as well as Amar Kanwar’s recent installation The Sovereign Forest (2010-12), his research project on the effects of population displacement and environmental degradation on communities in Orissa (now Odisha), India. Website, Publication, Exhibition Tour, and City-Wide Commemoration A dedicated interactive website, linked to the Menil’s main site, will offer an array of information on Gandhi, his followers, and nonviolent struggles for social justice around

About the Menil Collection A legacy of the late philanthropists John and Dominique de Menil, the Menil Collection opened in 1987 in the Houston neighborhood where the de Menils had created the Rothko Chapel in 1971. The Menil Collection’s main museum building anchors the 30-acre campus, which includes (in addition to the Rothko Chapel) the Cy Twombly Gallery, a site-speciﬁc Dan Flavin installation, and outdoor sculpture. Presenting regular rotations of artworks from the growing permanent collection, the Menil also organizes special exhibitions and programs throughout the year, publishes scholarly books, and conducts research into the conservation of modern and contemporary art. The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am to 7pm, and charges no admission fee.

VOICE OF ASIA 9

COMMUNITY

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

AADA’s 13th Annual Luncheon - Shines Light on Nation’s Domestic Violence Problem By Shobana Muratee

incident involving an NFL player Ray Rice who was caught on video assaulting his wife in an elevator and which made national headlines. Unfortunately, not all domestic violence cases get national attention which is why organization like AADA come to the rescue of victims of domestic Founded in 2001, the violence. Thanking AADA has been educatthe sponsors and suping the community on porters Sharma said, the issues of domestic “We are very grateful violence and providing for their belief in us, resources for domestic the funds raised will abused women of Asian enable us to provide origin residing in the ﬁnancial assistance Greater Houston area for covering legal and the last 13 years. The Nacounseling fees, paytional Coalition Against Rashmi Sharma, AADA president proudly ing school tuition for Domestic Violence sta- shows one of the auction art pieces. women wishing to tistics show that domestic complete their educaviolence affects one in tion and child care asguests as she explained the serfour women in their lifetime vices that AADA has been pro- sistance when needed as well and it strikes more than 145 viding in the past. “We receive as rental assistance to battered times each hour in the United 40-50 calls per month (but women from countries in Asia States. didn’t receive any calls from including India Pakistan Chi“What we do for others re- the NFL, she said in a lighter na Vietnam Korea Cambodia mains,” said Rashmi Sharma, vein) and our volunteers speak Philippine and middle eastAADA president in her wel- Asian languages,” she was ern countries. Your support come address to over 200 drawing attention to the recent enables AADA to continue

has never let us down.”

OUSTON - At its 13th Annual Luncheon held on Sep. 18 at Junior League, the Asians Against Domestic Abuse (AADA), Houston’s nonproﬁt organization resounded the seriousness of domestic violence that was increasing growing in the nation.

L-R: Dominique Sachse, Sunny Sharma with ADDA sponsors.

The Elle Milady Fashion Show.

providing safety and advocacy to battered women and their children, through its various assistance programs. Investing in your community is a vital part of improving your community and our community

The elegant event was emceed by the popular TV news anchor Dominique Sachse who also mentioned the NFL incident and said that the event could not be better timed especially when the nation is waking up to such rude shocks of domestic violence. She commended AADA for their continued support to the community on such sensitive issues. Among the dignitaries present were Pakistan Consul General, Houston Hon. Afzaal Mahmood, Fort Bent Dist. At-

torney, John Haley, Sugar Land Councilman Harish Jajoo, HPD Ofﬁcer Muzafar Siddiqi and Sgt. Buddy to name a few. A touching survivor story was narrated by one of AADA’s volunteer Michele Tran that described vividly the domestic violence scenario in the community. A live auction conducted by Jeff Council raised an impressive amount for the items auctioned. There were numerous booths as part of the market. Jewelry, chocolates, holiday season gifts and more that brought in some funds for the organization. Sharma also had a special $50 Mystery bag for her guests that raised some funds. During the lunch was held the Fashion Show by Elle Milady, Houston’s up and coming fashion line that showcased the autumn styles. October is Domestic Violence Month. Voices Against Violence is one of the collaborative events that AADA does with Fort Bend County Women Centre which is happening this Friday, Oct. 3 at the Sugar Land City Hall. All are invited to participate.

Pakistan Consul General, Houston Hon. Afzaal Mahmood (center) seen with some of the guests.

COMMUNITY

VOICE OF ASIA 10

Celebrate with ISKCON of Houston - Diwali and Govardhan Pooja, Oct 23- 24

Abhishek (traditional bathing of the idol with milk.) being performed at the ISKCON Houston temple. File photo.

Get ready Houston!

uring the most auspicious month of Kartik (October - November) we provide you opportunities for two great festivals to look forward to at ISKCON of Houston located at 1320 West 34th Street in the Heights area. Diwali, a festival of lights, will be celebrated on Thursday, 23rd of October and Govardhan Puja (New Year), on Friday, 24th. Diwali, also referred to as Deepavali literally means “row of lights”. While this festival is traditionally celebrated by lighting lamps, on a deeper level it signifies the victory of good over evil and the journey of a soul from darkness to light. As described in ancient texts of Ramayan, Diwali commemorates the day Lord Rama returned to His kingdom after defeating the evil King Ravana. The text of Mahabharata has mentioned this day as the day the Pandavas returned from their exile. Reflecting on scriptural significance of this day one has a chance to deepen one’s own faith and also to celebrate this festival with love, light and joy. ISKCON of Houston - as a timehonored tradition - will have a spectacular candle light arati in the newly constructed grand temple at 7 pm on Thursday. Program will begin at 6:30 pm to set the mood, there will be a talk about the significance of this auspicious occasion before the evening culminates in a most beautiful candle light darshan of the Deities. The glorious celebration of Govardhan Puja (New Year) begins with mangala arati, the greeting of Deities with lamps, the very next morning at 4:30 am. Govardhan Puja is a festival inaugurated by none other than Lord Krishna Himself when He manifested His divine past times in the sacred land of Vrindavan. After convincing His father Nanda Maharaj, that the worship of demigods is futile and it was the sacred hill of Govardhan that was providing for all their necessities, He prescribed the form of worship to Govardhan. The festival is celebrated by offering hundreds of delicious bhoga preparations that devotees make with love and affection to offer to Giriraj - King of all hills, who once carried Krishna and His cowherd friends. This day also reminds us that Krishna protects His devotees in all calamities when he performed the past time of lifting Govardhan to shelter the residents of Vrindavan from torrential rain that Indra - the God of rain, sent to punish them for neglecting His

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

worship. Govardhan hill is considered as one of the most holy sites for followers of the Gaudiya Vaisnava tradition. ISKCON of Houston is fortunate to host an actual shila (sacred rock) from the very same Govardhan.On Friday, you can witness abhishek of Sri Giriraj shila, which refers to the bathing of this Deity in auspicious substances such as milk, honey and fresh fruit nectars. Abhishek is at 7 pm, followed by discourse. All the variety of cakes, sweets, pudding, breads, sweet

rice and many more foodstuffs are offered to Giriraj Govardhan. This is known as annakut darshan (mountain of food). After offering the delicacies to Giriraj Govardhan, the feast will be served to everyone. This festival bonanza is not to be missed and the free vegan/vegetarian dinner feast on both days is simply a delicious bonus! For more details, please call at 713-686-4482 OR visit 1320 W 34th Street, Houston TX 77018 and www.iskconhouston.org

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

IITAGH Hosts Workshop on Principles of Networking

uilding a trusted n e t work takes a lot of effort and is built one person at a time. That was the message shared by Pradeep Anand, President of Seeta Resources, to over 60 participants at the IIT Alumni of Greater Houston workshop on “The Principles of Principled Pradeep Anand delivering his talk Networking,” held on Saturday, September 27 at India House. the group for showing up for Pradeep started the discussion the workshop. “Half the battle with his family story. He took is just showing up,” observed the audience on two journeys. Pradeep. The ﬁrst journey was of his During the discussion, grandparents and his parents, Pradeep focused on immigrants immigrating from Tamil Nadu and the loss of their networks as to Ahmedabad where his father they move from one country to worked for the Tata group, and another. He talked about how then to Bombay. This was a one needs to build a personal journey from 1918 to 1978. network from the ground up The second journey was and what it takes. Pradeep’s own journey as a stuMany in the audience shared dent at University of Houston their own observations, and after graduating from IIT Bom- agreed with the framework laid bay, from 1978 to the present. out by Pradeep. “You have to He talked about being laid off give to your network before during the oil bust in 1982, and you can ask from it. We do surviving through the generos- that in our personal lives and ity of friends and the personal we should abide by that same connections that helped him rule in our professional lives,” land a new job. As Pradeep ex- remarked Pradeep. The group plained, what helped him was talked about getting involved that he had actively networked with volunteer and charity oralong the way, although he did ganizations, such as IITAGH not quite know it at the time. and others, as one way to build He attributed some of his luck and strengthen the network. to showing up for a meeting The group also discussed the with a colleague, and thanked

IIT 2013 Global Conference and what it took to get 94 top quality speakers and moderators to the conference, including a former president, a Nobel Laureate and others. Pratish Kanani, President of the IIT Alumni of Greater Houston, closed the formal part of the discussion with a key observation. “Pradeep has been modest about his involvement as the Program Chair for the conference. Many speakers I talked to said that all it took was one call from Pradeep for them to show up. Think about that as you think about trusted networks!” The workshop was hosted by the IIT Alumni of Greater Houston. Upcoming events include “A Day of Coding,” on November 1, to teach coding skills to high school students, as well as the annual fall picnic event on November 9. IITAGH events are open to the entire community. Sign up at www.iitagh.org to become a member.

WORLD/US/ASIA

VOICE OF ASIA 11

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

Obama makes pitch for af- PM Modi meets Tulsi Gabbard in New York fections of Modi government

Indian people living in the US take photos as they gather outside the White House, where Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with US President Barack Obama in Washington, on September 30, 2014 (AFP Photo/Mladen Antonov ) Continued from Page 1 Washington Post on Tuesday and traveled together after their talks to pay homage at a memorial to civil rights leader Martin Luther King in Washington. - Summit on Mars Obama told reporters he was impressed with the “energy and determination” Modi has shown in tackling India’s challenges and opportunities since he took office in May. “It is critical for us to continue to deepen and broaden the existing framework of partnership and friendship that already exists,” Obama said. Modi struck a more cosmic note -- noting that space probes from the United States and India had both recently reached Mars. “After the US-India summit on Mars, we are meeting here on earth. “This happy coincidence captures the potential of our relationship.” Modi also revealed that he and Obama had a “candid” discussion on the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). “India supports trade facilitation. However, I also expect that we are able to find a solution that takes care of our concern on food security,” Modi said. “I believe that it should be possible to do that soon,” said Modi, who later went on to meet Secretary of State John Kerry and leaders in Congress. Stockpiling and subsidies for the poor are considered tradedistorting under existing WTO rules. All 160 WTO members including India agreed to implement the TFA -- which would mark the first big global trade liberalization deal in two decades in 2013. India’s move to hold up the deal in July surprised fellow WTO members. Obama said that he and Modi also had in-depth talks on economics and the Indian leader’s promise to pull more of his country’s people out of poverty. They also swapped views on the struggle against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria and the Ebola crisis in Africa. Obama noted they also spoke about the need for “maritime” rules to be observed -- an apparent reference to China’s territorial disputes with a host of Asian nations. Washington sees India as a key potential balance to rising Chinese power in Asia. Modi has already traveled to Japan and hosted talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping since capturing power in a landslide for his Bharatiya Janata Party in general elections in May. - Rocky ties Both sides are eager to repair the damage inflicted by a recent series of spats, including a crisis last December when US authorities arrested and then strip-searched an Indian diplomat in New York for allegedly mistreating her housekeeper. US officials insisted that a lawsuit leveled against Modi by a human rights group in New

York over the Gujarat massacre would not detract from the visit. As a foreign head of government, Modi enjoys diplomatic immunity. After the talks, the two sides issued a long joint statement, citing a broad range of cooperation and joint projects in national security, science, economics, high technology, investment and diplomacy. The document included a US commitment to make $1 billion in ﬁnancing available through the Export-Import Bank to bolRight: Elected Ofﬁcials from Washington, New York and Texas meet with Prime Minister Modi at Madison Square Gardens, New York.

ster India’s transition to a lowcarbon and climate-resilient energy economy.

NEW YORK (September 28, 2014) - Ms. Tulsi Gabbard, the ﬁrst Hindu member of House of Representatives of the United States, called on the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi on Sunday. She presented a copy of the Bhagavad Gita to the Prime Minister. She expressed support for the Prime Minister`s proposal for an International Yoga Day. Defence related matters, and counter-terrorism efforts also came up for discussion. The Prime Minister invited her to visit India.

VOICE OF ASIA 12

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

VOICE OF ASIA 13

LIFESTYLE

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

ONLINE .COM voiceofasiaonline.com

Vol. 27 No. 40 Friday, October 3, 2014 Section 2 Page 13

Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com Tel: 713-774-5140

Brooklyn the shooting star in NY Michelin Guide 2015 by Brigitte DUSSEAU

EW YORK A record 73 restaurants have won stars in the 2015 New York City edition of the prestigious Michelin guide, 14 of them across the river in Brooklyn and Queens.

The 2014 Michelin Guide to New York City restaurants, released on October 1, 2013 in New York (AFP Photo/Stan Honda)

There are six restaurants -- compared to seven last year -- in the guide’s highest three-star rating, earning the description of “exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey.”

French restaurant Daniel run by chef Daniel Boulud lost the third star he won in 2010 and was downgraded to the two-star category defined as “excellent cuisine” and “worth a detour.” There were nine restaurants in the two-star category, compared to five last year, and three of them new entries: the minimalist “Blanca” in Brooklyn run by chef Carlos Mirachi; Ichimura in TriBeCa and Aquavit in Midtown East. Although New York has fewer Michelin stars than Tokyo, Paris or even Kyoto, America’s largest city, and food mad to boot, has never had so many one-star restaurants: 58 up from 55 in 2014. An astonishing 17 of them were debut entries. The guide gave special plaudits to The River Cafe in Brooklyn, which was forced to close after 2012 super storm Hurricane Sandy, but which staged a remarkable comeback to retake its Michelin star. In all, 20 restaurants won a star this year, either entering the one-star category or moving up to two stars, and eight of them were in Brooklyn and three in Queens. “That shows the dynamic and really interesting side of the culinary scene in boroughs other than Manhattan,” Michael Ellis, the international director of the annual guides issued by the French tire company, told AFP. Brooklyn, which has seen phenomenal growth in the last decade to become an increasing cultural center in New York, now has one three-star, one twostar and eight one-star restaurants.

Queens has four one-star restaurants. - Emergence of young chefs “New York remains one of the most dynamic, most creative and most interesting cities,” in the world, said Ellis, praising the emergency of young chefs with their own signature taste who produce a “very personal” cuisine made with exceptional produce. Reflecting its demographics -- 36 percent of New York city residents were born overseas -- the city is also particularly unique in having so many different cuisines.

Out of 73 restaurants in the 2015 New York City edition of the Michelin guide that won stars, six were awarded the highest three-star rating (AFP Photo/Spencer Platt)

In the 2015 guide, 60 different types of food are represented, including Burmese, Cajun, Austrian, Peruvian, Polish and Tibetan. Of the six three-star restaurants, two are French establishments -- Jean Georges run by Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Le Bernardin run by Eric Ripert. The others are Japanese restaurant Masa run by Masa Takayama, Thomas Keller’s Californian cuisine at Per Se, Eleven Madison Park run by Swiss chef Daniel Humm and the Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare run by Cesar Ramirez. In all, 874 restaurants of the more than 20,000 on offer in New York get a mention in the guide, the 10th edition for New York. Seventy-three got stars compared to 67 in 2014. In addition to the starred establishments, 126 were highlighted as Bib Gourmand, which signifies good eating at good value. Menus in this category offer two dishes and a glass of wine for a maximum of $40, excluding tax and service.

The 2014 Michelin Guide to New York City restaurants, released on October 1, 2013 in New York (AFP Photo/Stan Honda) The 2015 guide also includes dozens of restaurants were diners despairing of the city’s high prices can eat for less

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LEISURE

VOICE OF ASIA 14

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

Netflix branches into films Tokyo film fest to focus on anime, Asia and Middle East with ‘Crouching Tiger’ sequel

OS ANGELES, September 30, 2014 (AFP) - Netﬂix is branching out into the world of movies with a sequel to “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” that will premiere simultaneously on the online streaming service and in selected theaters next year. “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: The Green Legend” will be the first of several major films backed by Netflix to be released on the same day, August 28, 2015, it said in a statement. The idea is to give audiences worldwide “unparalleled flex-

The ‘Ultra monsters,’ pose during a photo session at the 26th Tokyo International Film Festival opening green carpet event in Tokyo on October 17, 2013 (AFP Photo/Toshifumi Kitamura)

OKYO, September 30, 2014 (AFP) - Animated features will be in focus at the Tokyo International Film Festival when it kicks off next month, organisers said Tuesday, along with the cinema of Asia and the Middle East. The 27th TIFF, which will run from October 23 through 31, “will have great animation films... and we hope to help promote Japanese animations around the world,” festival programming director Yoshihiko Yatabe told a press conference. “A film made in Azerbaijan is one of features this year, a country where the fascinating cinema

scene is being influenced by the thriving film industry in neighbouring Turkey,” he said. This year, the collected works of Hideaki Anno -- who is seen as the next Hayao Miyazaki, the famed Japanese animation and manga master who retired last year -- will be seen together for the first time, the event secretariat said. Anno is best known for his popular science fiction anime series “Neon Genesis Evangelion,” which became a sensation in Japan in the 1990s. Other programmes include 3D short movies directed by

Shigeru Miyamoto, senior managing director of game company Nintendo and renowned game producer for “Sumer Mario Bros.” and “Donkey Kong.”

ibility in how, when and where they enjoy a major motion picture,” it added. Netflix has shaken up the US television industry with its original scripted programming and its release of entire seasons of the shows, including “House of Cards” and “Orange Is The New Black,” in one fell swoop. Ang Lee directed the first “Crouching Tiger,” a martial arts saga and surprise international box office hit that collected four Academy Awards in 2001 including best foreign language picture. The Weinstein Company --

Side events will also include the screening of Chinese and South Korean films, as well as those about Spain and Latin America.

‘Man in the Moon’ was born from lava - scientists

Principal photography is already underway in New Zealand, with Michelle Yeoh reprising her role as Yu Shu-lien and iconic Hong Kong martial arts choreographer Yuen Wo-ping directing. Netflix did not reveal details of the other movies it is backing, or the budget of “The Green Legend,” which it said “echoes the themes of the original movie, but tells its own story.”

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TIFF’s principal attraction, the competition section, screens 15 feature films from around the world that were selected from some 1,300 entries. The core events also include a competition for young directors in Asia and the Middle East, the secretariat said.

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This is a composite image of the lunar farside taken by the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter in June 2009, note the absence of dark areas. (NASA)

ARIS, October 1, 2014 (AFP) - A dark lunar basin that, seen from Earth, produces the “Man in the Moon” effect, was created by an outpouring of lava and not an asteroid strike, astronomers said Wednesday. Known as the Oceanus Procellarum -- the “ocean of storms” as classical skygazers dubbed it -- the vast basin measures nearly 3,000 kilometres (1,900 mile) across. Until now, the main theory to explain this extraordinary feature was that it was born when a massive space rock smashed into the Moon in its infancy. But a study published in the journal Nature offers evidence that a volcanic outpouring created the blotch that covers roughly a fifth of the visible side of the Moon. Analysing data from a NASA mission, astronomers found remnants of ancient rifts in the Moon’s crust that were once a “magma plumbing system,” according to the paper. This system flooded the region with lava between three and four billion years ago, which then solidified to create the telltale dark basalt rock visible from Earth today. The rifts became discernible thanks to a 2012 mission called GRAIL, entailing two probes

chasing each other as they swung around the Moon. As the leading spacecraft passed over an area with a thinner or thicker crust, the gravitational pull on it changed -- and this briefly altered its distance form the chasing probe. By measuring the minute “accordion” movement between the two probes, scientists were able to map differences in the Moon’s crust. The map showed that the rim of the Procellarum region is a polygon shape, with edges that join at 120-degree angles. This is the signature of contraction by molten material that has cooled and crystallised, whereas the impact of an asteroid whack would have created a circular or elliptical crater, the scientists believe. Still unclear, though, is why the upwelling of lava occurred, said Maria Zuber, a professor of geophysics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). “How such a plume arose remains a mystery,” she said. “It could be radioactive decay of heat-producing elements in the deep interior. Or, conceivably, a very early large impact triggered the plume. But in the latter case, all evidence for such an impact has been completely erased.”

Read these articles and more Online Visit www.VoiceofAsiaOnline.com

Young Life

VOICE OF ASIA 16

Friday, October 3, 2014

Section 2

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FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

Tel: 713-774-5140

The Attitude Of An Effective Leader Tricks and Treats to Stay attire for the event that day, my anticipation continued to grow. That Sunday marked the start of the Youth Leadership Development Program (YLDP) of Houston Class of 2015. Since 2008, YLDP has helped Indo-American high school juniors and seniors from the Greater Houston Area learn about a truly elusive concept in the real world: what comprises leadership? This year’s group consisted of 48 talented students striving to learn more about leadership in their future careers.

Dr. Latha Ramchand, Dean of the C. T. Bauer College of Business, UH, delivering her talk to the students. Below: 2014 Batch.

by Anirudh Suresh n the morning of Sunday September 21, I rose from my

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As one of these students, I was extremely eager to meet similarly motivated students and learn about what makes a leader in the professional world. I was especially excited to hear Dr. Latha Ramchand, Dean of the C. T. Bauer College of Business at the University of Houston, speak to our batch about leadership in business. By bringing together diverse examples ranging from the discovery of powered flight to a personal story about her grandmother, Dr. Ramchand

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conveyed the need for a clear and benevolent vision to succeed in one’s career. “One’s vision,” explained Dr. Ramchand, “must tie back to how one can make life better for another human being.” In addition, Dr. Ramchand taught us the significance of intellectual humility and optimism, using various cases from her workplace and large-scale business models to illustrate her points. Listening to Dr. Ramchand’s speech was very motivating on the whole, but my favorite aspect of the presentation was her discussion of adversity in several business models and the importance of being able to turn obstacles into opportunities. My first experience at YLDP taught me about the significance of a proper mindset and attitude in the professional world. Dr. Ramchand helped me realize that there will be several obstacles on the road to success. What is most important is how one handles these hurdles of life, recovers from temporary failures, and motivates others to follow.

on Budget this Halloween

Photo source: (c) Gennadiy Poznyakov - Fotolia.com

alloween comes but once a year. So make it extra spooky with ghosts, goblins and ghouls galore -- and don’t forget all the great treats. While all this fall fun does come at a price, you don’t have to spend a pirate’s booty if you plan carefully. For more treats than tricks this year, make a budget and stick to it. The shopping experts at Dollar General are sharing great ways to celebrate Halloween affordably. Clean Up Before the trick-or-treaters are at your door, spruce up your house with a few household cleaning supplies. Stock up on paper towels to use for clean-up after pumpkin carving, or pick up a new broom for all those fall leaves that are bound to make their way into your house. These fall months lead right into the holiday party season, so make sure you have all the tools you need to be party ready for your guests! Decorations Give your home a fresh fall update. Evoke the harvest season in the entryway with an autumn wreath. Buy one or DIY the project with supplies like glue guns, ribbons, faux leaves and flowers. Use seasonal placemats, runners and

pumpkin pie scented candles to accent your home with fall flair. Stock up on spooky supplies, too. Skeletons, cobwebs, ghosts and other festive supplies will make your home a favorite in the neighborhood. Treats Whether you’re hosting a Halloween bash or just preparing for a crowd of trick-or-treaters, think frugally when stocking up on treats. Buy candy, chocolates and treats at a discount store such as Dollar General. If you’re ordering online, consider buying in bulk to save further, as many retailers offer free shipping on large purchases. Make Halloween party snacks for less by buying peanuts, pumpkin seeds and candy corn, and creating your own seasonal trail mix. For dessert, bake a cake and decorate it creatively with gummy worms and colored icing to scare your guests! For crowd-pleasing ideas and more Halloween tips, visit www. DollarGeneral.com or visit their Pinterest page. With more holidays on the horizon, be sure to stay within your budget this Halloween season. Take steps to celebrate affordably. (StatePoint)

VOICE OF ASIA 17

BOLLYWOOD MASALA

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

Friday, October 3, 2014

Section 2

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A risky, dangerous film

Tel: 713-774-5140

Slam team returns to India

To be or not to be Shahid, however, has no qualms about experimenting Photo: G.P. Sampath Kumar. The Hindu. by Bhumika K

aider is not Shakespeareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hamlet as much as it is Vishal Bhardwajâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quirky Indianised family revenge drama for the Hindi-movie goer, says its star Shahid Kapoor Filmmaker Vishal Bhardwajâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Haider completes his Shakespearean trilogy after Maqbool and Omkara. And with Haider comes actor Shahid Kapoorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chance to be his best as an actor, getting to play the ultimate tragic hero, Hamlet â&#x20AC;&#x201D; something actors world over would kill for. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was a risky, dangerous and a very different film to do. It is a labour of love. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve done what convention tells you not to do,â&#x20AC;? said Shahid Kapoor, whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been stuck in a rut of comedy and action. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Playing Hamlet is the most complex part for any actor. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a mental and emotional journey. Not to mention the physical transformation,â&#x20AC;? said Shahid who was in Bangalore to promote the film, which releases on October 2. Hamletâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s famous â&#x20AC;&#x153;To be or not to beâ&#x20AC;? soliloquy has become a rage in Gulzarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Main rahoon ki main naheenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and Shahid has been in the news for shaving his head for a five-hour shoot for a shot comprising a six-page monologue. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is the scene I will always remember as an actor,â&#x20AC;? stressed Shahid. All praise for his director, he spoke of Bhardwajâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to convert Shakespeare into Hindi and maintain its quirkiness in Hindi. Excerpts from an interview. Any film based on a literary work always comes with great expectations. And this is Shakespeare! What was your thought on being offered the film? First of all I want people to know that this is an adaptation of Hamlet. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not Hamlet. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a film called Haider which has been made for the mainstream Indian audience, for the normal

guy, who likes to go watch Hindi movies in the theatre. It is a differently commercial film. At least thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how we see it. How is it different, as you just mentioned? To begin with, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a revenge family drama. Revenge is a rather universal emotion and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen many films on it. It has family dynamics and relationships between son and mother, father and wife, lovers, brothers, uncle and nephew. All the drama and histrionics of the film lie with these characters, who are local Kashmiri people. Normal people, with normal lives, with complex emotions. Like you and me. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what makes it very relatable for anyone to connect with it. And Haider?... Haider is a very real guy, very vulnerable, emotional, attached to his father and mother. He loves Arshiyaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s character truly from the bottom of his heart. And heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trying to deal with the complexities of where life has brought him. And Haider is trying to understand how to ride above this feeling. Whether heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s able to do that, or chooses to take revenge â&#x20AC;&#x201D; thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the story thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so human.

Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cool enough not to care about what people say. He makes what he believes in and he makes it from his heart. He has his unique way of telling stories. He has the honesty to talk about conflicted emotions. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not worried about portraying emotions how they are, he doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t try and sugar-coat them. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what makes his films hard-hitting and original. Raw. You seem to get both your comic timing right, and manage the dark, angsty, brooding act well tooâ&#x20AC;Ś I just copy my directors. I really try and sink into the mind of the filmmaker I work with. You have to let yourself go and not worry about how you will come across. Trust the filmmaker. Because, for him, the first concern is to get his protagonist right. And once you let go, you feel liberated and you know that someone else is looking out for you. Go with the creative flow. Courtesy: The Hindu.

SLAM-The Tour led by Shah Rukh Khan return after a successful tour in US, and Canada.

fter performing at the successful SLAM! The Tour in USA and Canada, team Happy New Year came back to India in the wee hours of October 1. Media welcomed them, with whom Director Farah Khan, Actors Deepika Padukone, Shah Rukh

Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, Boman Irani. Sonu Sood and Vivaan Shah shared their experience of being a part of SLAM. SLAM! The Tour USA/Canada was successful with houseful shows performed in six cities

-- Houston, New Jersey, Washington DC, Chicago, Vancouver and San Jose. The team will again fly off to London on October 4 to continue their SLAM performance at the O2 arena on October 5 and will finally return back to the country on October 6.

Amitabh Bachchan to campaign for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Banega Swachh India

EW DELHI - Megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who successfully led the campaign to eradicate Polio from the country, has now lent his support to the cleanliness drive â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Banega Swachh Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. The 71-year-old actor, who has been named the ambassador for this campaign, said he is proud to be associated with the

Even though itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the title role, I do feel that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just about my character. If anybody has read Hamlet, or any of Shakespeare, the supporting characters â&#x20AC;&#x201D; even calling them that is unfair â&#x20AC;&#x201D; because each character is equally crucial. And Vishal sir has been amazing in always providing strong performance opportunities to good actors, especially female actors. There are very few directors in our country who write strong roles for female characters.

Amitabh Bachchan cause as sanitation has been on his mind for quite some time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I feel very strongly about projects like saving the tiger, polio and tuberculosis. For quite some time now sanitation has been on my mind and when this opportunity came I had to be a part of this campaign,â&#x20AC;? Bachchan said during the launch of the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Banega Swachh Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; campaign. The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Paaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; actor said he learned the habit of cleanliness from his father, late poet Harivansh Rai

What is it about Vishal Bhardwaj that he gets dark, brooding movies right?

Bachchan, who was very strict about it. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In Allahabad my father was very strict and I remember once I played with dirt and it was messy so he scolded me and asked me to clean everything. He was very strict about all this. Even now if I am responsible for any dirty thing at home I am the one to clean it without asking for any bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s help,â&#x20AC;? he said. Bachchan also assured that he will be working for this project till the time things change.

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HEALTHY LIVING HEALTH

VOICE OF ASIA 18

Friday, October 3, 2014

Section 2

Page 18

Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

• Family history - Your risk may increase if anyone in your immediate family has been diagnosed with breast cancer; particularly your mother, sisters, and daughters. • Age - Most breast cancers are diagnosed in women older than age 50. • Race - While the risk is higher for white women, African-American women are more likely to die from breast cancer. Additionally, breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death in most AsianAmerican and Pacific Islander women. • Menstruation and menopause - Beginning menstruation before age 12 or entering menopause after age 55 means prolonged lifetime exposure to estrogen and pro-

gesterone, which may increase your risk. • Hormone therapy Risk increases when the combination of estrogen and progesterone has been used for four or more years. This treatment for menopausal symptoms may also make malignant tumors harder to detect on mammograms. • Not having children or pregnancy after age 30 - Estrogen levels are lower during pregnancy, which may protect breast tissue from estrogen exposure. • Exposure to radiation - Risk increases if you received radiation treatments to your chest as a child or young adult, but the risk is greatest if treatments occurred as an adolescent during breast development. • Genetics - Mutations in one of several genes, specifically the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes that normally help prevent cancer by making proteins to keep cells from growing abnormally, increases your risk. Since these gene mutations can be inherited, genetic counseling and testing are available for those women

who elect to get tested to see if they also carry the mutation. • Personal history - Having breast cancer in one breast significantly increases your risk of developing it in the other breast. • Alcohol consumption Risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed, starting with two alcoholic drinks daily. • Excess weight - Risk increases if you gain weight during adolescence or after menopause or if you have more body fat around and above the waist. While nothing guarantees you will not develop cancer, there are many things you can take to reduce your risk and stay healthy. It is important to make healthy food choices and eat foods high in fiber. Try to increase the amount of fiber in your diet to between 20 and 30 grams daily. High-fiber foods include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Limit processed foods, sweets, and salt, and avoid foods high in saturated fats. Eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables

daily, and choose foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Maintain a healthy weight and engage in regular physical activity, preferably 45 to 60 minutes five days per week. Don’t smoke and get regular check-ups. Studies clearly show annual screenings, starting at age 40, save lives. With more than 15 locations offering mammograms in the greater Houston area, including nine luxury Breast Care Centers, Memorial Hermann is dedicated to providing the best technology available with skilled radiologists, surgeons, oncologists, and nurses, in a warm, healing environment to give you the best breast care experience available. From a routine mammogram to a biopsy, a range of breast services are available in one location and typically all in one day. To schedule a 3-D mammogram, call 877-40-MAMMO or schedule an appointment online. SOURCE: Memorial Hermann Hospital Sugar Land

Obesity risk rises if antibiotics given before age two: study by Kerry SHERIDAN

ASHINGTON, September 29, 2014 (AFP) - Kids who get treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics before age two face a higher risk of childhood obesity, said a US study on Monday. The research in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Pediatrics is the latest to find a link between weight problems and antibiotics, which can eliminate bacterial infections but also the beneficial intestinal microflora that colonizes the gut. Experts at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia looked at health records from nearly 65,000 children who were treated at primary care clinics from 2001 to 2013. Those included in the study were followed for five years. More than two thirds of the

kids studied were exposed to antibiotics before age two. The increase in obesity risk ranged from two to 20 percent and was seen particularly in children who had been treated with antibiotics four or more times by age two. Those given broad-spectrum antibiotics, which target a range of bacteria, were also at higher risk of weight problems in childhood. “No association was seen between obesity and narrowspectrum antibiotics,” said the study, which described the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics in children under two as “one factor” in whether a child develops obesity.

to the emergence of drug-resistant bacteria strains. In recent years, US health authorities have urged doctors to cut back on antibiotic prescribing, and have also attempted to educate parents that common viruses cannot be cured with antibiotics. “This study offers another solid reason to more carefully consider the reasons for antibiotic use and avoid it whenever possible,” said Patricia Vuguin, a pediatric endocrinologist at Cohen Children’s Medical Center in New Hyde Park, New York.

The study called for treatment guidelines for common pediatric illnesses that urge limits on antibiotic use and a preference for narrow-spectrum medications.

“While the study is robust, it wasn’t able to consider other variables that contribute to the risk of becoming obese, including diet, exercise levels and family history of obesity,” added Vuguin, who was not involved in the study.

Inappropriate prescribing and overuse of such broad-spectrum antibiotics have also been linked

“Since the children studied also were exposed to an average of several episodes of broad-

spectrum antibiotics, I also wonder if they may have been sicker than typical children.” The findings warrant future studies that could take into account other factors that influence intestinal flora, including the use of probiotics and breast feeding, said Molly Regelmann, assistant professor of pediatrics at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York. “While, broad-spectrum antibiotic use is not the sole contributor to the rise of the obesity epidemic, the availability and use of these medications certainly coincided with the rise in obesity in the US,” said Regelmann, who was not part of the research team. “It is somewhat reassuring that narrow-spectrum antibiotics, which are commonly prescribed for common pediatric infections, were not associated with obesity later in childhood, making the point, that targeted selection of antibiotics is ideal.”

Factors to consider To Delay Social Security Beneﬁts after full retirement beneﬁts.

hat Is The Best Age To Start Your Beneﬁts?

To answer this question there are additional factors to consider besides what we discussed in previous article. They are: How is your health? If you are not in good health, you may decide to start your benefits earlier. Will you still have health insurance? If you stop working, not only will you lose your paycheck, but you may also lose valuable employer provided health insurance. Although there are exceptions, most people will not be covered by Medicare until they reach age 65. Your employer should be able to tell you if you will have retiree health benefits or if you can temporarily extend your health insurance coverage after you retire. Also, if you are married and your spouse is employed, you may be able to switch to his or her health insurance Are you eligible for benefits on someone else’s record? Remember, Medicare usually starts when you reach age 65. If you decide to delay starting your benefits, be sure to contact Social Security about 3 months before you turn age 65 to check about applying for Medicare. Even if you have health insurance through a current or former employer or as part of your severance package, you should still check to see whether you need to sign up for Medicare. Some health insurance plans change automatically at age 65. If you need to sign up for Medicare but you do not, your Medicare coverage may be delayed and cost more. Please read the general and special enrollment period information on page 12 of Medicare booklet provided by Social Security Administration to find out what may happen if

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Social Security Beneﬁts Now or Later? Part II

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

Breast cancer can develop for a variety of reasons; however, the American Cancer Society reports that if detected early, the five-year survival rate is 98 percent. So, talk with your healthcare provider today about your risk.

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VOICE OF ASIA 19

HEALTH, SC & TECH

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

Flower Power: The Healing power of Flowers - Part II CALIFORNIA POPPY –Tonic for the nervous system and can be thought of as a gentle balancer to the emotions and a calming rem-

Prof. Meenakshi Bhattacharjee, Rice University, Houston TX. by Prof. Meenakshi Bhattacharjee CALENDULA – The bright yellow petals of Calendula flowers are most effective when mixed

with other substances to create ointments or creams. It can then be used on the skin to heal burns, cuts, and wounds.It has been used for centuries to heal wounds and skin irritations. Calendula has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, astringent, antifungal, antiviral, and immunostimulant properties making it useful for disinfecting and treating minor wounds, conjunctivitis, cuts, scrapes, chapped or chafed skin, bruises, burns, athlete’s foot, acne, yeast infections, bee stings, diaper rashes, and other minor irritations and infections of the skin. Plus, it stimulates the production of collagen at wound sites to help minimize scarring and assist with stretch marks. This versatile botanical can be incorporated into baths, creams, compresses, washes, salves, ointments, massage oils, baths, facial steams, tinctures, and teas. It is also gentle enough to use for babies, children, or animals. Internally, gargling with Calendula infused water may ease a sore throat, sores in the mouth, and inflammations in the mouth and throat.

edy for times of stress; research has borne out its sedative and anxiolytic properties. It is suitable for calming both children and adults, helping to reduce anxiety and tension in the day and induce sleep at night without side effects of drowsiness or stupor. It can be used to ease depression, restlessness and agitation, and is especially good for people who find it hard to let go and relax and push themselves too hard, often to the point of exhaustion. Its antispasmodic action relaxes muscles throughout the body, making it a useful remedy for soothing tense, aching muscles and treating stress-related gut problems, IBS, colic and gallbladder pain. It can also be used for relieving tension headaches and is excellent for treating bedwetting in children, asthma and spasmodic coughs where there is a stress element; in fact it can be added to prescriptions for a wide variety of stress-related conditions. By calming the nervous system California poppy influences the heart and circulation. It slows a rapid heart, relieves palpitations, and reduces blood pressure. Don’t worry when using California Poppies since they are not addictive and do not have any opium in the plant. However, it can be used to help reduce anxiety and insomnia, as well as bladder problems in children and adults. California Poppies can be used along with other natural sources over a longer period of time to help with depression and fatigue. Useful in the treatment of behavioral disorders such as ADD, ADHD in children and young adults. It has also been used to improve intellectual capacity, memory and

concentration in the elderly. CARNATION – When separated from the base of the flower (which is bitter), Carnation petals can be brewed to make an excellent tea to reduce anxiety, agitation, stress and fatigue. Moreover, it also has a healing effect on the skin and can bring

down swelling. Carnations to help in nervousness and some coronary disease, but also for nausea caused by seasickness relief. Carnation oils have therapeutic benefits for the treatment of skin rash and act as a conditioner for the skin. Many women use carnation oil to treat and the appearance of wrinkles and conditions such as rosacea and eczema to minimize. The flour was used in a variety of cosmetic and oils. Reduces inflammation and swelling and can help restore natural hormonal balance in women with a nervous conditions associated with hormonal imbalances, Carnations also be used in the treatment of endometriosis. Carnations have been used in medicine to help reduce fever and pain, in addition to the improvement of the liver, stomach, and the health of the heart. CHRY SA N TH EM UM – Chrysanthemums are another flower that makes a great tea when steeped in hot water. Drinking this tea brings marked relief

for those suffering from a fever, headache or common cold. The cooled liquid can also be applied

as a compress to soothe tired eyes. Chrysanthemum can help the body fight off a range of infections including streptococcal and staphylococcal infections. The traditional Chinese have used the tea to treat influenza, fevers, inflammations and even heatstroke due to its cooling effect. It also helps to correct imbalances that may affect the liver and also helps in dealing with kidney function, thus helping with their treatment. A rinse made from the flower can be helpful to treat skin infections. Chrysanthemum tea is a great aid to digestion, helping the body to digest greasy food more easily. The tea is also helpful in relieving nasal and head congestion. Because of its zero calorie content, it is often used to treat obesity and as an aid to lose weight. It is also said to improve vision and hearing and is given in cases of dizziness, blurred vision and spots in front of the eyes. It may also be helpful in cases of night blindness and to treat conjunctivitis. New research has shown that the flavonoid acacetin that is present in chrysanthemum has the ability to inhibit malignant cell growth in the prostate region. This may make it a useful weapon in the battle against prostate and other forms of cancer. It is believed to be good for the heart and has been known to lower blood pressure levels. It may also be able to increase blood flow to the heart. Traditional Chinese medicine has used these properties of the flower to treat cases of hypertension and angina. CORN FLOWER – These distinctive sky-blue flowers have long been used to deliver relief to medical patients. Corn Flower tea acts as a laxative and also as a mouth cleanser. It is safe to consume the flowers in their raw state. A paste made from corn flowers brings relief to acne and tired or irritated eyes. Cornflower contains biotin that helps in strengthening the nails, prevents and treats nail infections, and treats hair problems like dandruff. Cornflower is used in many hair care and skin

care products because of its anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is even used in shampoos and hair rinses to treat scalp eczema. Cornflower is used for easing eye irritation and treating problems like sore eyes, conjunctivitis, and even skin irritation around the eye because of its effective anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. Cornflower tea is used as an eye wash to relieve swelling and pain. The bitterness of cornflower makes it an effective natural remedy against a variety of digestive problems like constipation, diarrhea, indigestion, gas, and other gastrointestinal complaints. It also acts as an appetite stimulant and is therefore used for treating cases of anorexia as well. The flowers of this plant are used as an expectorant, diuretic, and stimulant for gall bladder and liver function. It also supports and regulates the functioning of the kidneys. Therefore, people suffering from kidney, liver, or spleen problems can take prescribed doses of this herb for relief from symptoms of these disorders. Cornflower is very commonly applied topically to wounds, cuts, and other ulcerations. You can either use the juice from its leaves or make a poultice and apply it to the wounds for quick relief from pain and inflammation. Cornflower is also used as an astringent oral rinse for treating mouth ulcers. Women suffering from endometriosis can take cornflower preparations to ease menstrual cramps and other related symptoms. Cornflower has a calming effect on the nervous system and it therefore beneficial to those suffering from anxiety, stress, depression, and other nervous system disorders.

DANDELION – Dandelions are very effective for cleaning the blood and also helping with related issues, such as anemia. In Native American culture, it was also used as a laxative and a tonic of overall wellbeing. Stimu-

late digestion and vitality as a diuretic lowering blood pressure and relieving premenstrual fluid retention. Help balance blood sugar promotes the flow of bile from the liver and gallbladder, as well as hydrochloric acid from the stomach. It is rich in minerals and vitamins, particularly calcium and vitamins A, C, K, and B2 (riboflavin). FOXGLOVE – Used in moderation, foxgloves have proved to be valuable in curing edema (previously known as dropsy). It is also used as a tea to remedy coughs and colds or as a compress for skin swellings or sores. Of all the medicinal

herbs for the heart, especially for heart problems associated with arteriosclerosis or hypertension, Foxglove is without doubt the most beneficial. There are many medicinal derivatives of foxglove, but the best known and most often prescribed for heart conditions is Digoxin, also called Lanoxin. However, this is also a very dangerous herb that can be fatal if taken inappropriately, with a thin margin between therapeutic and fatal dosage. Foxglove is an excellent antidote in Aconite poisoning, given as a hypodermic injection. None of these should be used without Doctors advice.

VOICE OF ASIA 20

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BUSINESS

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

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If marriages are made in heaven, eBay split to create indepenpreparations start at Bridal Show dent PayPal by Sophie ESTIENNE

by Somdatta Gangopadhyay

n exclusive South Asian Bridal Show was held at the Sugar Land Marriott Town Square on 28th September to serve as a one-stop-shop for prospective brides and event planners. Colorful dresses, grand decor, delicious food, door prizes, rhythmic beats, makeovers and a host of vendors that offered everything needed for a wedding in planning marked the Bridal Show. As a full day event it saw people especially future brides hopping from one vendor to another. ‘It requires months of planning, detailed organizing and advertising,’ said Taryn Fontenette, Event Manager, Desi Weds, adding, ‘Contacting vendors requires networking.’ Guests were welcomed with flowers by River Oaks Flower House, one of the vendors that occupied the entrance. Mandaps for wedding to begin with, the River Oaks also does other events. According to Mahesh, father of a potential bride, ‘Selection of arrangements, flowers and decor is the biggest challenge.’ Sari Sapne located at Hillcroft also adorned the entrance with their collection of bridal dresses. ‘Some ladies like it custom made. If they see something online or on TV, we can do that as well,’ said Akash Lulla, son of the owner, Sari Sapne. Among other stuff, the TapSnap could get a lion’s share of the crowd as they let the visitors take pictures incorporating latest technology and copies of photos. Some could e-mail or upload in Facebook rightaway. ShutterQube, another photography company located at Houston didn’t stay behind either. ‘We provide fun to any event.’, said Gee, owner, ShutterQube. Brides could have the opportunity to take pictures with props and glittering backdrops. ‘I like the Southern and Adorn the best.’ , said Hina, a future bride as it let her fulfil her desire to get makeup. The makeup sessions at no cost attracted a lot of brides too as Pamela, owner, Southern and Adorn created the ‘magic spell’. No wedding can be complete without food, and so The Madras Pavilion catered in the most innovative style by serving pani puris in shot glass, creating madhur Milan (combine gulab jamun

EW YORK, September 30, 2014 (AFP) - US online retail giant eBay unveiled plans Tuesday to spin off PayPal, aiming to help the unit compete better in the fastmoving online payments segment. The plan, to take effect next year, comes after months of pressure led by activist investor Carl Icahn, who had assailed eBay for poor management and claimed that keeping eBay tied with PayPal depressed the value of both. An eBay statement said that a board review concluded that “a changing competitive landscape creates enormous opportunities for eBay and PayPal” and that “separation will create sharper strategic focus” for each unit. Madhur Milan a creation of Dawat was among the attractions. Photo by Somdatta with gajar ka halwa). ‘We’re trying to introduce global fusion food in wedding dinners. Everything is presented differently than the usual serving on dishes.’, said Mahesh Shah, President Dawat Catering, and owner, The Madras Pavilion, one of the proud sponsors. All About Cakes, another proud sponsor with their platter of cakes with ornate garnish

taking turns. A dance floor with a spacious floor and disco light effect set the stage for the energetic ‘dancers’. A barati (wedding procession) effect was created with dhol beats. A host of other vendors included crockery and cutleries, wedding decors, as well as Bombay Brasserie, Roundeye Productions, My Kreative Style, Indo Raja Entertain-

Company president and chief executive John Donahoe said that “for more than a decade, eBay and PayPal have mutually benefited from being part of one company,” but that the situation had now changed. “A thorough strategic review with our board shows that keeping eBay and PayPal together beyond 2015 clearly becomes less advantageous to each business strategically and competitively,” Donahoe said. The move comes with the online payments segment facing challenges from the likes of Apple, which has introduced a mobile payments platform using its iPhones, and newcomers such as Square. - ‘Maximum flexibility’ “The pace of industry change and innovation in commerce and payments requires maximum flexibility to stay competitive and drive global leadership,” the eBay statement said. The split will give shareholders “more targeted investment opportunities” and will increase the value of the company over the long term, the statement added.

Guests interact with vendors. Photo by PJ Daranikone, Round Eye Productions could bring smile to many faces. Rhythmic beats let many a feet tap as the music filled the ambience. DJs were present too to make the event musical. The three DJs played music

ment to list a few among the many other vendors who also sponsored the event. With every vendor letting take giveaways, the South Asian Bridal Show was a day to treasure.

SYDNEY / MELBOURNE

PayPal accounted for 41 percent of eBay’s revenues last year and has more than 152 million active users. Donahoe and chief financial officer Bob Swan will lead the transition of both businesses, the statement said. But they will not hold executive management roles in the two new companies.

The “new” eBay will be led by Devin Wenig, current president of eBay Marketplaces. The independent PayPal will be headed by Dan Schulman, who comes from American Express after holding top jobs at AT&T, Priceline.com, and Virgin Mobile. Icahn said the decision was long overdue. “We are happy that eBay’s board and management have acted responsibly concerning the separation -- perhaps a little later than they should have, but earlier than we expected,” he said in a statement. “It is almost a ‘no brainer’ that these companies should be separated to increase the value of these great assets and thus to meaningfully enhance value for all shareholders.” Icahn also said that the payments sector needs “consolidation” -- either through acquisitions by PayPal or by merging it with “another strong player in the industry.” - Stronger apart eBay acquired PayPal in 2002 for roughly $1.5 billion in shares, integrating the payment service that had already been widely used for online auctions. PayPal over the years has expanded beyond a simple payment mechanism for eBay auctions. According to eBay, PayPal facilitates one in every six dollars spent online today, or some $203 billion over the past 12 months. And PayPal has moved into mobile payments with the acquisition of the payment processing group Braintree, boosting its own mobile platform called OneTouch. After the announcement, eBay shares leapt 7.5 percent to close at $56.63, and analysts reacted positively. Forrester Research’s Denee Carrington said the plan makes sense because PayPal had “outgrown” eBay. “The payments landscape is hypercompetitive, the pace of change is accelerating and everyone is gunning for PayPal,” Carrington said.

VOICE OF ASIA 21

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

HOROSCOPE

VOICE OF ASIA 22

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

Your Horoscope for the Week of October 3, 2014 by Hardik Vyas, Astrologer Cell : 832-298-9950

READ YOUR COMPLETE HOROSCOPE ONLINE WWW.VOICEOFASIAONLINE.COM

Libra (R,T) 23 Sept to 22 Oct

Aries (A,L,E) 21 March to 20 April Your natural drive for self-expression is high right now. You can push yourself into a competition with great energy and zeal. Play hard and you’ll win in your creative projects. Your mood to socialize is high. Your intellectual curiosity and mental restlessness may ﬂicker from one scene to another. Your sense of well-being may become quite fragile if you continue to dwell on the negative. Finding a more positive perspective will provide yourself with a real boost. Emotional clashes, short fuses and outright escalations are possible but appear to ﬁx fast.

Have friends seeking some guidance in your area of expertise. Your counsel will prove to be very lucrative. Giving of yourself in this generous manner will prove that your motives are genuine. You might have some difﬁculty in situations which require you to rely on other’s resources. Your sensitive side will help you to recognize how judgmental people can be. Your fuse will be super short and you may not be able to even control or contain it as your ‘lag time’ is in micro seconds.

Taurus (B,V,U) 21 April to 20 May

Scorpio (N,Y)23 Oct to 21 Nov

Need to try hard to streamline your tasks to create more leisure time in the immediate future. Your perceptive touch will help find the best result by keeping your interest strong in others activities. You’ll be at the right place at the right time. Your ideas will fit in well with your peers. Your aura will lead you to those who will help you find answers. Your patience is low, your hopes are set HIGH and your expectations may be slightly ‘unreasonable’ especially with youth and those just ‘not equipped’ with the capacity necessary to be ‘trusted to do it right’.

Your desire for harmony and beautiful surroundings stronger than usual. You’re more inclined to use your charm and persuasion than a more direct method to achieve your goals. A spontaneous inspiration may prove to be very beneﬁcial to your life. You may have an opportunity to directly pitch your ideas and beliefs to those who can make things happen. You may spend a lot of ‘thinking time’ going over old or current issues and feeling/being rather ‘fed up’ with an older system or ‘attitude’ that is ‘pervasive’ in/within the family and revamping is highly likely.

Sagittarius (BH,F,DH,TH) 22 Nov to 21 Dec

Gemini (K,CHH,GH) 21 May to 20 June Finding you in a situation where you need to push your positive inﬂuence forward to those in authority. Your original proposal may start to fade but you can retain the essence of it by promoting your true values. Being yourself, as unique as you are, is what makes you a real treasure. You’ll feel empowered once you understand that. You’ll be able to trust other’s ability to help you ﬁnd answers. Several ‘long discussions’ may be required near and particularly over discipline/behavior and ‘loyalty issues’.

Realizing that you can be very effective right now. You may ﬁnd yourself in the position to rally others to your point of view. You’ll also be able to communicate with great conviction. Games or contests will provide you with an extra burst of energy. Excitement will reign, as your romantic urges will also run high. You could actively pursue the one you desire. Family issues have three stars, because you are totally prone to emotional upheavals, clashes and some sort of ‘sad news’ especially announcements of loss, terminal conditions or other upsetting, disappointing or frustrating news

Capricorn (KH,J) 22 Dec to 20 Jan

Cancer (D,H) 21 June to 22 July You may need to slow down your hectic pace to enjoy the company of friends & family. You really won’t have to push your ideas too hard to ﬁnd mutual agreements. You’ll be able to ﬁnd new way to share your daily duties and activities with loved ones. You always love a happy ending and this story should prove to be a real winner. Happy and contented energies are the ‘norm’ for this week and good news, a change for the better and visitors or invitations may be part of it.

Feeling empowered to reach many goals. The nature of your studies will depend on your personal interests. Whatever you decide to pursue, you will do so with great intensity. Your concentration and focus is very strong. You may become so engrossed in your investigation that you won’t be able to do anything else until you ﬁnd the information that you seek. Several discussions may be required this week, especially near next week and some tend to be needed ‘before’ a decision is made, spending is done or discipline is handed out.

Leo (M) 23 July to 22 August

Aquarius (G,S,SH) 21 Jan to 19 Feb

Looking for want or need to take an opportunity to learn new ways to increase your income. Be sure to check everything thoroughly. Someone may be trying to confuse you. You may need to work a little harder to ﬁnd a compromise that pleases everyone. Take the time necessary to research some fascinating adventures far away from home. Emotional discussions MAY escalate out of control, especially IF other members are involved unless you ‘tone it down’ quickly should you ﬁnd yourself ‘too embroiled’ .

Prove that good relationships can bring out your true self. Your energy level will soar high. All victims may not always be innocent. Be wary of those who try to hide their true nature. Your patience and understanding will enable you to grow greatly as a person. You may ﬁnd a new interest to lead, in your ﬁeld. You should branch yourself out to reach a larger audience. Financial ‘hits’ are likely near and may come from bring things ‘up to snuff’ with appliances, plumbing/electric or health care issues.

Pisces (D,CH,Z) 20 Feb to 20 March

Virgo (P) 23 August to 22 September You are with an urge to decorate and beautify your immediate surroundings is a great way to express your creativity. Look past the immediate to find some old treasures to exhibit your style. You may be feeling very sensitive, even vulnerable. It may be time to think about a little rest and relaxation. You can be imaginative but you need to rejuvenate yourself first. Generous emotional contributions, especially to in-laws, spouse and youth of any sign, may include time, skill/talent, money and sacrifice of your own needs/wishes. Returns on your ‘thoughtfulness’ appear to come as soon.

All your hard work noticed by those in authority. Your interest in improving your lifestyle will help you to make some dreams come true. Free yourself from any negative energy. You may feel as if your head is about to burst. Focus on the tasks at hand and you will soon have a deeper understanding of what to do. Don’t be surprised by other’s reaction to your success. Some may have ‘high hopes/expectations’ built into a situation & only to ‘crash’ and then ﬁnd they may be feeling anxious, annoyed and ‘gathering up restless or aggressive energy’ because of it.

QUICK REFERENCE SERVICES DIRECTORY

VOICE OF ASIA GROUP To advertise, call:

Phone: 713-774-5140 E-mail: Adsvoa@yahoo.com

Accountants

Electrical Service

Moving Service

NARESH SETLUR, CPA

Superior One Electric

A-1 DAN’S DISCOUNT MOVERS INC.

KHOA TRINH, Electrical Technician Tel: 832-359-5447 Free Estimate TECL# 27099

Apt., Home, Office 23 Years in Business

Certiﬁed, Quickbooks Proadvisor

Accounting, Tax Returns, Cost Accounting, Peachtree, Sales Tax, Franchise Tax.

Visit our website www.karanika.net

Retail, Manufacturing, Construction, Franchise Accounting

(832) 620.4757 - Email: setlurn@gmail.com

BOOK-KEEPING INCOME TAX Personal and Business Tax Returns, Payroll

Sales Tax, Income Tax Audits and Representations

S. Ram and Associates

Tel: 832-877-9625 Free Consultation asu2020.com

M.D. Associates LLP A full service CPA ﬁrm

Commercial & Residential

* Repair/ Remodeling * New Installation * Ceiling Fans * Light Fixtures * Electric Panel * Trouble Shooting * Services Upgrades

Faith & Worship Houston Tamil Church (.org)

• Welcome to our Sunday Worship Service @ 10 AM • Bible Study / Sunday School @ 9 AM • VBS Classes August 13, 14, and 15.

Rev. Duraimony Dickson • (281)208-8924

3 Locations to serve you

You need this Space

visit us at : www.mdassociatescpas.com

For more information

Houston 713-774-6533 Spring 281-251-2205 Dallas 214-722-7545

Child Care College Nannies and Tutors of Sugar Land

• We offer premium childcare and tutoring services • We take care of you from cradle to college.

713.955.2050

www.collegenanniesandtutors.com/sugarlandtx

Computer Services Computer Repair & Networking: Microsoft MCSE & A+ certified, low flat rates, free estimates, pickup & delivery; Web Design & Online Marketing: Increase your sales by search engine optimization. Certified in Yahoo & Google Adwords, PCNetworkGuru.com, Call Amit at 832-971-6807

Education Phoenix School of Holistic Health and Massage

Call us today

Heating & Cooling lic# TACLB50147C

Residential & Commercial Free estimates on Residential Repairs & New Equipment replacement Call Saji Mathew Ph: 832.633.4347

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• Get a Texas License in Therapeutic Massage (LMT) • Quality Education in the Healing Arts. • Study Holistic Healing Techniques. • Call: 713.974.5976 • www.themassageschool.com

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Restaurants India’s Restaurant & Catering

for special parties and corporate events. Preferred Wine list, Authentic vegetarian & non-vegetarian dishes, ﬁnest Indian cuisine with chef’s special dishes

Restaurants

Ph: 713-266-0131/ 0805

We cater from 10 people to 800 people for all occasions. We deliver to your venue. Madhuram Mirch Masala 10758 FM 1960 West Houston, TX 77070 281.955.9878 216.338.3940 (cell)

713-774-5140 SAJ Heating & Cooling

281-242-1928 & 832-605-3031

Shiva Indian Restaurant & Catering specializing in North Indian cuisine, Ofﬁce and Corporate catering.

• 2514 Times Blvd. Rice Village, Ph: 713-523-4753 • 2130 Lone Star Dr. Sugar Land, Ph: 281-494-2981

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CLASSIFIEDS

VOICE OF ASIA 23

Estimator

Purchasing Manager

Level is seeking a qualified 4+ year professional with local unit cost and quantity take-off experience. Candidate should be a detailed and thorough individual who can handle a large volume of plans that range in size from $300,000 to $4 million. Candidate must work well within a team environment. Duties and Responsibilities Analyze blueprints, specifications, proposals and other construction documents to prepare time, cost, materials and labor estimates for bidding construction projects, applying knowledge, and specialized methodologies, techniques, principles and processes. Knowledge of local market pricing for labor, material, and equipment used in commercial construction Determining the scope of work as per drawings and specifications Proficiency in Excel based estimating or other construction estimating software. Qualifying subcontractors and bids. Contact: To apply, please visit:http://smrtr.co/1qCgBDD Company Link: www.levelconstruction.net

Level is seeking a qualiﬁed 3+ year professional with experience in purchasing and procurement of materials and products. Candidate must have excellent organizational and time management skills who has knowledge of purchasing/ inventory control policies, processes, and procedures. Candidate must work well within a team environment. Duties and Responsibilities Locate vendors for materials, equipment or supplies, and interview them to determine product availability and terms of sales Prepare and process requisitions and purchase orders accurately into the system Analyze market and delivery systems in order to assess present and future material availability. Prepare reports regarding market conditions and merchandise cost reports weekly. Develop relationships with vendors to secure best pricing, terms and/or special price negotiations. Work with Accounts Payable staff to ensure accurate and timely payment of invoices to suppliers. Contact: To apply, please visit: http://smrtr. co/1pgdwtn Company Link: www.levelconstruction.net

HELP WANTED

Live in help - Gujarati lady

needed for cooking and light house keeping. Please

Call 832-526-8700

Accounting Assistant

ax Consulting Firm’s accepting resumes from qualiﬁed entry level accounting graduate for “Accounting Assistant” Position. The position challenge to all aggressive accounting graduates who would like to apply their accounting knowledge. Please forward your resume for review to: P. O. Box 36770, Houston, TX 77236-6770.

E-mail: HarryTax@aol.com

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014

HINDI PRARTHANA

Do you need PRAYER? Do you need a MIRACLE in your life? Can we pray for the CHILDLESS couple?

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The value of money is taught early! Earn Smart! Spend Wisely! A community message from Voice of Asia Group

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month We would like you to participate!

Broadcast Systems Specialist KTRK-TV ABC13 located in Houston, TX is seeking an experienced Broadcast Systems Specialist. This is a great opportunity for someone with advanced knowledge of computerized television broadcast equipment and systems including, but not limited to, master control automation, graphics systems, newsroom automation systems, and Non-Linear Editing Systems such as Avid, Edius, and Final Cut Studio. Strong computer networking skills are required. The ideal candidate will have experience providing technical support in a broadcast environment and requires someone with a proven track record managing projects. We are looking for someone that is motivated to excel and possess strong interpersonal skills. Candidates must be willing to work a schedule that will include nights and weekends throughout the year. To be considered for this position you must apply on-line at www.disneycareers.com by uploading a resume ﬁle and cover letter. Job Req # 214646BR. Equal Opportunity Employer – Female/ Minority/ Veteran/ Disability. No Telephone Calls.

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Voice of Asia is dedicating each issue in October for Breast Cancer Awareness. Send in your tributes to loved ones you lost to Cancer, share your personal stories of challenges and success, stories of how you or your loved one conquered cancer.

Will be celebrating Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Prakash Purab (Birth Anniversary) by releasing a Special Supplement in His honor

Deadline for each week’s issue is Monday by 5 PM. Send us 250 - 500 words, photos, your contact details.

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All are welcome to send in their Birthday wishes and greetings to honor The Saint in our Special Supplement set to release on October 31st, 2014.

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Do not miss this Golden Opportunity!

Name: __________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________

Credit Card No: ____________________________________ Name on the Card: _________________________________ CVV #: __________ Exp Date:___________ Amount: $______ One Year Signature: __________________________ $30 Two Years $55 Five Years $100 We will mail 52 issues to your home or ofﬁce! 8303 SW Freeway, Suite 350, Houston, TX 77074

Best Value!!!

Deadline: October 23, 2014 by 4 PM For details, Call us today: 713-774-5140 Email: ads@voiceofasiagroup.com Free community calendar of Events at: www.voiceofasiaonline.com/event-calendar

VOICE OF ASIA 24

FRIDAY, October 3, 2014