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FEDERATION OF INDIAN ASSOCIATIONS OF VICTORIA INC

Edition: 01 www.fiav.asn.au June 2009

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
The Federation of Indian Associations
of Victoria Incorporated, (FAIV) has a
new Executive which is determined to
chart a new direction for its members in
the next two years. This determination
to provide a new direction is influenced by a collective
concern expressed by all Federation members to enhance
the image of the Federation within the Victorian Community
and to ensure that the Victorian Indian Community has a
credible, viable and influential voice on all matters and
concerns which might affect all Victorians of Indian origin.
In this effort, I as President and FIAV Executive
Committee Members are determined to steer a course away
from any issues which might divide the Community and will
concentrate and dedicate our efforts in implementing a set
of agreed policy initiatives of which the custodian will be all
the members and stakeholders which form the FAIV.
In brief, the new course calls for efforts to be made
towards making a reality for all our Community a new
Community Centre – which will deliver to all our members
and to all Victorians of Indian origin a place where they
can meet, discuss and express themselves as they
wish and like. Other communities have achieved
this successfully both with their own efforts and
with assistance from local, state and federal
governments. For a number of years we have
spoken about it, we have thought about it but now
we have to deliver such facility for our Community!
In achieving this goal, the Executive has initiated
the following preliminary steps:-
z We are in the process of developing a business
plan and feasibility study which will govern
and coordinate the efforts of community-
wide fund-raising efforts towards this project’s
establishment.
z We have began talks with state, local government
representatives and with the Offices of the
Victorian Multicultural Commission and with
the assistance of the Victorian Multicultural
Commission’s Chairman, Mr. George Lekakis
we will approach all governments to gain support
funds for the project.

Continue on Page 4

We deeply regret Marriages, and to

to announce the any other religious
death, of former events, as well as his
Honorary Consul of involvement in the
India to Melbourne, construction of Shri
Dr Martand Joshi on Shiva Vishnu Temple F EDERATION OF I NDIAN A SSOCIATIONS OF
V ICTORIA INC
Monday, 25 th May in Carrum Downs,
2009. South of Melbourne.
Dr Joshi passed away Dr Joshi assisted me
peacefully in his sleep financially and morally
and his death has in many free funerals
shocked the Indian which I conducted in
the last few years
FOR THE SAFETY AND SECURITY OF
Community especially those who
knew him. On Behalf of Federation of Indian INDIAN INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS AND VICTIMS OF
Dr Joshi was a well known Community Associations of Victoria and it’s
Executive Members, I wish to
DOMESTIC VIOLANCE OF INDIAN ORIGIN
worker, and having been actively
involved in all aspects of Indian express our deepest sympathy and
Community Activity in Australia and condolences to his wife, Mrs. Zofia 1800 FIAV 00
especially in the State of Victoria. Joshi , his daughter, Ms.Suman
Joshi, and we all sincerely pray for FREE CALL FREE CALL
Dr Joshi was also a well known priest,
having been a priest to many Indians
in Melbourne for House warmings,
his soul to rest in peace.
Vasan Srinivasan President - Fiav
1800 3428 00
MON - FRI - 10am to 5pm & 7 pm to 11pm
2 June 2009

From The Editor’s desk PRESIDENTS OF ASSOCIATIONS CONTACTS

Australia India Tamil Sangam Kalamandir School Of Dances
President: Subra Ramachandran President: Bijoy Das
Recently elected Executive of the Federation of Indian
Email: subra.ramachandran@gmail.com Email: bkd2005@gmail.com
Associations of Victoria from day one in the office of FIAV Fiji Community Association Maharashtra Mandal
President: Sudhesh Singh President: Mukund Deshpande
under the leadership of Mr Vasan Srinivasan has been Email: mmvic.president@gmail.com
Email: sareesansaar@dodo.com.au
determined to introduce changes, which will benefit FIAV Malayalee Association
Goan Overseas Association of Vic Inc
President: Sajan P John
members and improve stature of the Federation. To achieve President: Andrew Mendes
Email: sajanpjohn@hotmail.com
Email: Andrew.Mendes@aig.com
this, the Executive has initiated a functional and accessible Email: mendesandrew@dodo.com.au NTTF Alumni Association
President: Gangadhar Bevinakoppa
newsletter that would assist all member associations in Gujarathi Association Email: koppaeng@bigpond.net.au
President: Dipak Mankhodi
Punjabi Club Of Victoria
becoming better informed about FIAV activities and also Email: mankodi@hotmail.com
President: Surinder Mudher
inform their activities to the community at large. It thus Hindi Niketan Email: surindermudher@hotmail.com
President: Samsher Singh Sangam Community Association
provides a two-way communication platform. Email: samsher3@mailcity.com President: Usha Sharma
Indian Music Association Email: ush_03@yahoo.com.au
The ‘Voice of the FIAV’ will operate as a bi-monthly President: Sushil Sharma Tamil Society Of Melbourne
Email: rkrehab@hotmail.com President: Nadesan Sundaresan
publication. One of its major tasks will be to promote the FIAV’s Email: sundar21@bigpond.net.au
Indian Senior Citizen’s Association Of
Community Centre Project. This publication will be used as Victoria Inc Telugu Association Of Australia Inc
President: Prem Phakey President: Gopal Thangirala
a means of direct communication for keeping the community Email: prem.phakey@bigpond.com Email: president@taai.org.au
informed about the progress of the project. The Voice of the Northern Region Indian Seniors Association
Indo Australian Association of Victoria
President: Dr Santosh Kumar
President: Peter Castelino
FIAV will also provide each member Association free half Email: skumar836@aol.com
Phonel: 03 9705 8724
Victorian International Students Association
page space to inform their own association’s activities. Jat Jagat Victoria President: Dr Vipin
President: Samsher Singh Email: drvipintp@gmail.com
The FIAV Executive will strive to raise funds for Email: samsher3@mailcity.com Phone: 0405 548 144
the Community Centre Project by offering to interested
Executive Committee Members : Contact Details
parties commercial advertising space within the Voice. It
President:
is hoped that advertisements in each issue would be able Mr Vasan Srinivasan
to generate for the Community Centre Project funds of the Off : 03 9671 4442, Mob: 0412 553371
Email: vasan@uniservices.com.au , president@fiav.asn.au
order of $4,000 to $5,000. Members, please note that the Vice President
BENSONS PROPERTY GROUP has accepted to fund the Mr Thomas Joseph
Mob: 0438 591 014
first twenty-four issues of the Voice and their generosity and Email: Thomas_kjoseph@hotmail.com, vp@fiav.asn.au

support for the Indian Community Centre Project is gratefully Treasurer

Mr Harish Kumar
acknowledged. harish.kumar13@bigpond.com, treasurer@fiav.asn.au
Mob: 0429 979053
The Editorial Subcommittee is constituted of Dr. Secretary
Mr Subra Ramachandran
SANTOSH KUMAR, Mr. Thomas Joseph (vice president, Mob: 0403 777 252
FIAV) and Mr. HERMANT AMIN. Email: secretary@fiav.asn.au
Community Services Director
The ‘Voice of the FIAV’ will be distributed to all FIJIAN, Mr Sushil Sharma
Mob: 0433 733 861
INDIAN and SRI LANKAN groceries, supermarkets and Email: rkrehab@hotmail.com, csd@fiav.asn.au
member Associations. It should be noted that the Voice Asst-Secretary
Mr Andrew Mendes
seeks not to compete with existing community newspapers in Mob: 0411 230 975
any way. It only seeks to provide a necessary link for useful Email: Andrew.Mendes@aig.com
Asst -Treasurer
community news to all its members and the wider Indian Mr Nadesan Sundaresan
Community of Victoria. Therefore, the Editorial subcommittee Mob: 0422 896 181
Email: sundar21@bigpond.net.au
calls upon all members to contribute and make the Voice their Chairman –Editorial Sub Committee
voice and assist the FIAV in its efforts to provide the growing Dr Santhosh Kumar
Ph:9816 3401 Mob: 0411 136 612
Indian Community with an effective and influential voice. Email: SKumar836@aol.com
Deputy Director – Community Services
Finally, on behalf of the FIAV, the Editorial Sub-Committee Mrs Krishna Arora
Ph: 9511 5733
express their sincere thanks and appreciation to BENSONS Email: arora.krishna@gmail.com
PROPERTY GROUP for their support and to the designer,
We want to be read. That is why we publish. We want to share our thoughts with
Mr. Raseem for development of the logo, header and page-
all of you. Just a few words would make all the difference to us.
lay-out. All their professionalism work speaks for itself, let PLEASE WRITE TO US Please email us : editor@fiav.asn.au
you be the judge. For All advertising inquiries, Contact : Tel: 03 9671 4442 E-mail: admin@fiav.asn.au
Design and Published by: Federation of Indian Associations of Victoria , Registered Office: Suite 3-4, Level 2, 217 – 223, Chapel
Dr Santhosh Kumar Street, Prahran, Vic 3181 ABN: 96 133 460 057.
Material Published in this edition is subject to copyright provisions. Voice of FIAV accepts no responsibility for unauthorised
republication of such material.
Chairman Editorial sub-committee
Fiav, Voice of Fiav or its editors are not responsible for the opinions expressed by the contributors to this News Letter.
Graphic Designer: Mohamed Raseem (md_raseem@yahoo.com) Printed at: Streamline Press Pty Ltd.

voice of fiav
June 2009 3

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Head of Indian Banking (VIC) Business Development Manager
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voice of fiav
4 June 2009

Continued from Page 1

President’s Messege
z We also were invited by the Honourable, grow into a flourishing organisation providing offer as his personal appreciation towards
the Minister for Trade, Mr. Simon Crean benefits to all its members. Moreover, it was the FIAV and its efforts in providing the
to discuss with him his ability to assist his heart’s wish that the divisions of the past united representation of all-Indians within
the FIAV with our Community Project and the damaging ‘politics’ associated with Victoria!
and I am pleased to report that the that past no longer take precedence in the life Finally, the new Executive and I
Minister committed to assisting us and and function of the Federation! I concurred have determined that our actions and
place at the FIAV’s use the resources with his wishes and assured him on behalf your concerns as Associations and as
of his office towards assisting us. of the Federation that what he wished will be individuals require a venue to express
Moreover, the Minister agreed to play followed henceforth! views. After all, without you and your
a major role in the inauguration of our Moreover, I met the new Consul-General, Association there would be no Federation.
public fundraisers at a date which will Ms. Anita Nair and with the Consul, Mr. Anil This Newsletter will provide the necessary
be convenient to him to attend. Gupta and both were briefed on the new bridge of communication which will inform
z We have determined to commence changes at the FIAV and on the plan for a you and in return, you will have the
our Community fund raising efforts new Community Centre and both welcomed opportunity to inform us about happenings
with the launch of Victoria-wide raffle the proposed change of direction and in your association and community and your
(50,000 tickets to be distributed and expressed the support for the Community concerns. This bridge of communication
sold) to raise the necessary funds for Centre plan! only will be successful if you contribute and
the Community Centre’s establishment this effort is jointly undertaken. Again, we
Also, I met with the Mayor of the City of
commencing on the August 15, 2009 Manningham, Charles Pick and discussed have the pleasure to inform you all that the
at a Dinner in support at Manningham with him our Community’s concerns and our sponsorship of the Newsletter – “Voice of
Receptions, Doncaster. FIAV” , will be undertaken by BENSONS
wish to find a suitable site or building to house
PROPERTY MANAGERS. It should be
z All these important efforts will be and to cater for Indian Community functions
noted that the Newsletter will be bi-monthly
coordinated by an all-Community Fund (free of charge). Through the Mayor’s good
in its circulation and will be distributed to
Raising Committee which will consist offices, I met with various Departmental
the FIAV’s members. The only purpose
of all the Presidents of FIAV, Member Heads and briefed them. They all pledged
of the newsletter will be to act as a bridge
Associations and invited ‘Community full support towards addressing Indian
of communication between the FIAV’s
Leaders’. It will be responsible for the Community requirements. The Mayor’s
members and not actively compete for the
proper management of funds raised for assistance is greatly welcomed.
reporting news with our already numerous
the project. I also met and had discussions with and well-established Indian Community
Other important developments of various senior Community Leaders, Mr. Newspapers.
significance Surendra Varma (a freelance writer), Dr
As President of FIAV and on behalf of
Prem Phakey (the President of the Indian
The Executive resolved recently to my Executive Committee, I have placed
Senior Citizens), Dr. Santosh Kumar
establish a 1800 FIAV 00 number for before you our plan for action. We are
(President of NRISA) and Dr Vipin (the
assistance to our Community in times of determined not to waste valuable time and
President of VISA) and briefed them that
personal security fears or in situations of effort in petty squabbles and divisions but
the immediate aim of the FIAV to establish
family domestic violence. The number:- to concentrate our collective and individual
a ‘Drop-in-Place’, which is open on a daily
1800 3428 00 is open to all to access, efforts towards the service of our diverse
basis and is accessible by public transport
including Indian origin international students and progressive Community. We aim to
for the Indian seniors and the Indian origin
and it is hoped that valuable assistance is make a difference and to leave a worthwhile
students – providing them with a ‘social
gained by those who seek assistance and legacy for all and most importantly for the
outlet’. This may require relocation of the
help. coming generations. It is with this thought
FIAV office.
Also, while in India, I met the former in particular, we will call upon you all to
Also, I wish to express thanks to the assist us and to participate in tasks ahead
Consul General, Dr. T. J. Rao and
proprietor of the newspaper, INDIAN VOICE, and in meeting every challenge as one. On
discussed with him the recent changes on
Mr. Raj Dudeja for offering 8 pages of editorial this basis alone, we will progress forward
the FIAV Executive and briefed him fully
space in his newspaper for the FIAV’s use and succeed in our aims.
on the new Executive’s plans. I am happy
at no cost. Although this generous offer was
to report to you all, that Dr. Rao welcomed Vasan Srinivasan
declined, we wish to ACKNOWLEDGE his
the ‘proposed changes’ and expressed his President
generosity and offer and observe his kind
support that can make “his child– the FIAV”

For the Safety and Security of Indian International Students

and Victims of Domestic Violance of Indian Origin

F EDERATION OF I NDIAN A SSOCIATIONS OF

V ICTORIA INC FREE CALL FREE CALL
MON - FRI - 10am to 5pm & 7 pm to 11pm

voice of fiav
June 2009 5

voice of fiav
 6 June 2009
Message from Dr. Rao
I am delighted to
note that the President
Mr. Vasan Srinivasan is
planning to bring out a
newsletter after a lapse
of several years.
The FlAV was
established in 1989 to
represent the diverse
Indian community as
a unified voice. At
- Mr. T. J Rao that time there were
16 Indian associations
Former Consul General for
representing the various
India in Victoria states of India and there
was a need for a Unified
body that could represent the Indian community. With
this purpose, we were able to bring all these groups
together under one umbrella organization which came to
be known as the FIAV.
For the FIAV to be successful the various regional
groups should be represented by one of their Office
Bearers for .effective communication and dissemination
of information. If the regional groups are not represented
by an. Office Bearer on the FIAV Executive Committee
then information does not percolate through to the
committees of the respective regional groups. The FIAV
will only be as good as the representatives that are sent
to the federal body by the respective regional groups and
unless the regional groups take an active role in the FIAV,
the whole relevance of the FlAV will be questioned.
It is important for the community to understand
that politicians at both a Federal and State level will
only listen to community groups that speak with one
voice. It is upto the FIAV to represent the concerns of
the Indian community effectively so that your grievances
are addressed. Therefore the FlAV Executive needs to
address how best to communicate with the community
so that people’s voices can be heard - certainly the
representatives from the various regional groups is one
mechanism, but maybe some thought needs to be put into
Northern Region Indian Senior’s Association of Victoria - 2008
N orthern Region Indian Seniors’ Association (NRISA)
was registered in January 2008 and had its inaugural
meeting in March 2008. The association creates opportunities
for the seniors to get out of their loneliness by meeting people
and be informed as how to live a healthy and happy life.
Though the primary aim of the association is to serve the
seniors but it does not limit its activities to seniors only. At
least, couple of activities is intended for people from all ages
to share good time together. Last year an excursion
to Ballarat and the annual function “Three-Generation
Family Union Day” were intended to bring all age
groups together.
Monthly meetings and the excursion attracted
around 35 members, whereas the annual function
held in November 2008 at the Northcote Town Hall,
was attended by 145, which included invited guests,
community members along with their families. In many
cases three generations were present. In the 3G
function, Dr Devki Monani was the MC and Bollywood
dances were performed by Vihang and his group
representing Shiamak Davar International (Australia)
Pty. Ltd. The guests were equally enthusiastic to
show their skills and stamina. The chief guest for
the evening was Hon. Martin Ferguson AM MP (Minister
for Resources and Energy, and Minister for Tourism). The
Minister condemned the cowardly act of terrorists in Mumbai,
assured about the Australian Government’s commitment to
support India in their difficult time and praised the contributions
of the Indian community in Australia. Other two distinguished
guests included Mr. Nazih Halim Elasmar – OAM (Member
of the Legislative council for the Australian Labour Party)
representing Hon. James Merlino MP, Minister for Sports,
a well designed website that will allow the wider Indian
community to communicate directly with the FIAV.
The FIAV was not set up to satisfy anyone individuals
personal ego or agenda but to benefit the community
as a whole. However, over the last few years the
election process has been derailed by branch stacking
for vested personal interests which culminated in a lot
of infighting and loss of credibility of the FIAV. This
is no more evident than the establishment of the one
and two person organisations and dance schools that
are not at all representative of the community at large
- any of these such organisations at best could only be
associate members with no voting rights. In recent times
these organisations have been disrupting the effective
functioning of the FIAV.
A major issue with the running of the FIAV has
been a lack of governance surrounding how it operates.
An interim committee has now reviewed and revised
the constitution; however, certain principles should be
adopted as a matter of course moving forward. These
include:
• All meetings being minuted and final minutes
signed by the Chairperson circulated to all organisations
within 7 days of the meeting. These minutes should be
clear, precise and have action points of what needs to be
followed up prior to the next meeting.
Financial reports to be distributed monthly along
the minutes
No persons with any prior criminal convictions to be
allowed to nominate for the FIAV committee
A board of trustees be constituted immediately
that has the power to remove non performing committee
members
No office bearer should be able to stay for more
than 2 terms
Any regional group member of the FIAV must have
a minimum of 30 financial members - these members
must be financial at least 30 days prior to the AGM of
the FIAV.
Recreation and Youth Affairs and Minister Assisting the
Premier for Multicultural Affairs, and Mr. Anil Gupta, Consul
for Cultural and Commercial Affairs for India in Melbourne. All
emphasized about the tragic and heartless deed of terrorism
in India, about the ghastly activities leading to destruction,
sufferings and the innocent lives being lost.
There are people who selflessly serve the community.
During the year 2008, the association presented Community
Services Award to Mr. Anil Gupta, Hon. Martin Ferguson, Mr.
Shabbir Wahid (The then President, FIAV), Mr. Sushil Sharma
(Director Community Services, FIAV), Mr. Vasan Srinivasan
(President, FIAV), Mr. CV Samuel (Grace Villa, Aged Care),
Ms.Barbara Quittanbaun (A visitor to Melbourne who has
given 27 years of service in rural India). It was an example
hard to match.
NRISA also recognized catering services from Shahnai
voice of fiav
FlAV Executive to review the financial member
requirements of each regional group every 6 months.
The above points are just a few examples of
corporate governance aspects that need to be adopted by
the FlAV moving forward.
There are also a lot of social issues within the
community that need to be addressed and these are
increasing with the growing population. Whilst a lot of
these problems are taken care of by individuals it is time
that we address these collectively with the help of a
social worker. In this regard the Victorian Government
has been very helpful in financing a social worker for our
community and for this we need to extend our thanks.
With one of the most affluent communities in
Victoria, we still do not have a community centre to call
our own. Various ethnic groups receive a lot of funding
from Governments and we have been missing out because
of the infighting and disunity. I believe that it is high
time that the community wakes up and takes an active
interest and supports the FlAV so that we can avail of
these and other benefits.
More recently, every Saturday morning, many ethnic
groups have their home country news broadcast on SBS. 1
had negotiated with Doordarshan to send news from India
for this however due to some technical issues this has not
yet been possible. But these are areas that the FlAV can
take on and really add value to Indians living in Victoria
and Australia.
Finally prior to stepping down as the Consul General
for India in Victoria, I established the Australia India
Benevolent and Charitable Trust with Dr. Martand Joshi,
Dr. Virendra Berera and Mrs. Jaya Sharma as trustees and
we established an initial corpus of A$400,000. We should
work hard as a community to grow the funds in the trust
so that we can use the funds to help the needy within our
community.
I take this opportunity to wish the FIAV every
success. I hope that this is a new and exciting chapter in
the FlAV’s history.
Indian Restaurant and Tandoori Junction. Medals as
mementoes to young children were also presented for
encouragement and future association in community events.
This year NRISA availed financial grants from the
Victorian Multi-cultural Commission, Darebin Council, and
the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services
and Indigenous Affairs. Usually NRISA meetings are held
on the 3rd Sunday of the month at 18 A Bent St, Northcote.
These meetings include entertainment, lunch, lectures,
discussions on topic of interest, Yoga, Meditation,
Pranayam, and group walks.
Membership of NRISA is open to all, no age
restriction. I wish to share a true incident before putting
forward a challenge if you think that you are energetic,
young and full of ideas. In Northern Thailand, a resort
has introduced an annual King’s Cup, a new version
of the game polo, where elephants replaced normal
horses. These elephants used in this game are
those, who were decommissioned due to their age,
from laboring as timber haulers. This is an example
of creative thinking to convert a social burden into a
national asset, see Time Magazine, March 16, 2009.
A new industry has been established for the National
Elephants Institute and the resort. Similarly the challenge is
to convert senior population with knowledge, experience and
worldly wisdom into a national asset and bring a change to
their current social status. Can you help? If so, please join
NRISA. For membership and other information concerning
NRISA you may contact Dr Santosh Kumar, President (0411
136 612) or Mr. Rajender Chopra, Secretary (0401 681 330).
Santosh Kumar
June 2009 7

voice of fiav
8 June 2009

P O S I T I V E MOVING WITH OUR

A G E I N G NEW CONSTITUTION
C hallenges and opportunities are unique
features in one’s life. Old age can be
a positive phase in one’s life like any other.
FIAV was in a sorry
state when in 2007 a
identify the deficiencies in
the existing constitution. It
several constitutions of other
renowned associations
Positive living is neither about living longer nor small group of people with found that that anyone could such as the foot ball clubs
about how to avoid growing old. It is about vested interests took an register an association and the ACTU. After nearly
making the most of the benefits of being unconstitutional step of with the FIAV, without any six months of hard work
older. staging a Fiji style coup and scrutiny, and become a the CRC produced a draft
You can be as old as you feel “50’” or young ousted the democratically voting member. (A few copy of the constitution. Dr.
at heart at “80” it is about your attitude. It elected General Council past presidents of FIAV Marar’s Interim Committee
is important to be connected; we are living in and the Executive Council had exploited this loophole looked at the proposed
an era of communication through technology, Mrs Krishna Arora of the FIAV and installed to build an impressive list changes and in general
a perfect place to be involved, informed and themselves as the governing agreed with them. The
(in numbers) of member
in touch. As you grow older, consult a Doctor as to how to increase
body. This group took over associations to falsely proposed new constitution
bone density along With other things to help avoid osteoporosis and
the office and tried to control claim the grandeur of the was put together and
other physical ailments. Stay fit and healthy, increasing your core
stability to help your balance and avoid falls. the accounts held with FIAV.) When accepting circulated to all Indian
the banks. Unfortunately membership of applicant associations and many
Positive Ageing is a strategy for current and the seniors of tomorrow.
personality clashes played association basic essential individuals for comments.
It maximizes the quality of life and social recognition of seniors In
contrast to previous generations not only is it possible to increase the
a major role and some well requirements such as After addressing the
number of years of your life. it is also possible to be more active and known members of the providing evidence of a comments, the CRC handed
energetic across the years. community sided with the registered incorporated over the new constitution to
“coup group”. The Indian body, a proper constitution the Executive Committee
One should be involved in a meaningful way with friends and
family in whatever activities you undertake. Enjoy life and a range community was divided and and a list of current financial of the FIAV. This revised
of activities. its reputation was harmed. membership could not be constitution was formally
As an Indian living in monitored or implemented. adopted at a specially
Retirement is a time to embrace the things you would have loved
to do. Australia for the past 45 Another major flaw in the convened Special General
years I was saddened to see existing constitution was that Meeting and then registered
PARTICIPATE IN ALL ASPECTS OF THE COMMUNITY AND with the Department of
OTHER OCCASIONS. what happened to the FIAV, the member associations
the so called “Umbrella had unequal value for their Consumers Affairs.
Remember that each of us will have certain expectations about vote. Big associations such
Association”, that claimed The new constitution
life is an older person and our attitudes towards the knowledge of
to represent the interest of as the Sindhi Association, is a document of 24
ageing.
all Indians living in Victoria. the Gujarati Association, pages covering topics of
Positive attitudes to ageing is often shown by the following the Punjabi Club, the Indian
There were many other membership, termination
characteristics.
people in the community Senior Citizens Association. of membership and
l) Sense of pride and determination in the face of adversity. who too voiced their disgust. Marathi Mandal, Hindi expulsion, powers of FIAV,
2) An interest in sustaining social relationship. The Indian community Nikaten etc with several the composition and duties
3) A tenacity of self in a changing world. blamed the people who hundred members each of the General Council
originally formed the FIAV had the same voting and the Executive Council,
4) An acceptance of give and take.
for leaving big holes in the power as any “Mickey voting rights, budgetary
5) An awareness of the need to make the short of ones assets. constitution that caused the Mouse” association that and accounting process,
6) A desire to live a Quality life. mess. The court challenge had only five, six or even the code of conduct,
The facts of life often dictate a story you may not have expected launched by some of the less members. It became dissolution and trustees.
for your years as a senior citizen. That is not something to allow members against the “coup evident that sadly some The full version of the new
yourself lo be brought down with. group” was heard by the individuals had exploited constitution is available on
The indian Seniors are accustomed to ‘Indian Culture’ and when judge who gave judgment these weaknesses in the FIAV web site but a
they join their sons and daughters they have entered a mixed culture declaring the takeover by the FIAV structure and brief summary of some of
and their grand children are ‘Westernised’. Therefore the Seniors who the group unconstitutional registered several “Mickey the main amendments and
migrate to be with their children will have to reach an understanding. and invalid; thus reinstalling Mouse” associations with additions is given below:
Social relationship will have to be sustained. Senior citizens themselves the constitutionally elected the FIAV. (This was akin 1. To be admitted as a
should promote tolerance, respect and understanding and breakdown members of the FIAV. to the “branch stacking”, member, an organisation is
community barriers. The president Mr. Shabbir a commonly practiced required to submit minutes
KEY ATTITUDES OLDER PEOPLE SHOULD SEE FOR POSITIVE Wahid and the Executive play in politics.). Hence of the last AGM, a list of
AGEING. Council of the FIAV then a few individuals were current office bearers,
1. Optimism created a Constitutional able to form many small audited financial reports, a
2. Faith or/believing. Review Committee (CRC) associations with the same copy of the constitution or
3. Confidence and courage consisting of Dr. Ishwar individual members and its equivalent, a copy of its
Desai, Dr. Prem Phakey, thus control several votes. certificate of incorporation
4. Maintaining a sense of advantage
Mr. Hemant Gokhle and Technically a single person and a list of its identifiable
5. Guts and Determination
Mrs. Pratiba Ganu. This could cast several votes financial members. The
6. A sense of humour committee, because of its and thus control the affairs General Council will decide
7. Learning to live with limitations wide collective expertise, of the FIAV. to accept or reject the
It is important to keep active. Seniors have the option to spend was given the task to look After identifying the application for membership.
their time doing; Volunteer work, talk on the phone with friends, into the deficiencies in deficiencies in the old
exercising and staying fit visit shopping areas, look after the grand (Note: This makes the
the existing constitution constitution the CRC met
children. Even enrolling in various educational courses which are member associations more
and recommend changes. regularly for prolonged
offered through institutions and councils will help expand your mind responsible, accountable
The first task of the periods to amend the
and occupy your time in a productive fashion. z Mrs Krishna Arora and transparent.)
Constitutional Review constitution. For this
Committee (CRC) was to 2. The membership of the
purpose the CRC studied
Continue on Page 10
voice of fiav
June 2009 9

O A C H I N G
IELTS C D*
P R O V I D E

OUR SERVICES POPULAR COURSES

• Automotive Technology

• Community Welfare

• Hair Dressing

• Hospitality Management

• Electronic Engineering

• MIT

• MIS

• MPA

• Printing & Graphics

• Refrigeration &

*Conditions Apply
Air-conditioning
 10
Continued from Page 8
organisation is terminated if
the member organisation is
no longer incorporated.
(Note: This means that
the member associations
should remain viable)
3. The General Council
of FIAV shall consist of
primary delegates, with
voting rights, nominated by
the member associations.
An association whose
membership is greater than
100 is allowed a maximum
of three primary delegates.
If the membership is
between 51 and 100 then
the entitlement is two
primary delegates, and
for membership between
25 and 50 only one
primary delegate. Those
MOVING WITH OUR NEW CONSTITUTION
organisations that have less
than 25 financial members
can be admitted to FIAV
but they have no primary
delegate or entitlement
to vote. No delegate or
alternative delegate shall
represent more than one
member organisation.
Should a delegate cease
to be representative of his
own association, he will lose
position at General Council
or Executive council.
(NOTE: This is
proportional representation
giving bigger associations
more say in the affairs of the
FIAV. It also stops a single
person from representing
several associations and
casting more than one
vote, a major flaw in the old
constitution.)
4. Delegates nominated
for the position of President
must have completed
one continuous year as
a member of the General
Council in the last three
years prior to nomination.
The president shall be
responsible for the welfare
and dignity of the FIAV, the
maintenance of harmony
among its members and
the strict observance of
the rules, regulations and
procedures as laid down in
the constitution.
5. The General Council
of FIAV shall determine
the policies upon which the
affairs of the FIAV shall be
conducted. The General
council shall meet at least
once quarterly.
6. The affairs of the
FIAV shall be managed by
the Executive Committee.
This committee shall meet
at least once every two
months.
7. The Reserve Powers
to manage the FIAV is
vested in five Trustees.
The trustees take over the
running of FIAV, for no
more than 180 days, if for
some reasons the Executive
Committee is unable to
manage the affairs of the
FIAV.
(NOTE: This is a very
important clause that
effectively guards against
any unconstitutional
takeover of the FIAV of
the kind that took place in
2007. These trustees shall
take steps to enable the
General council to elect a
new Executive Committee
at a properly constituted
Special General meeting of
the FIAV.)
8. An Annual Conference
shall be held prior to the
AGM of the FIAV at which
all members of the Indian
Community of Victoria shall
be invited to express their
views.
(NOTE: This is a very
innovative clause that aims
to bring the general Indian
June 2009
community in touch with the
FIAV).
The CRV is of the opinion
that the new constitution
of the FIAV will serve the
current needs of FIAV but
it may need updating from
time to time as the Indian
community and the FIAV
grows. For example there
may be a need to include a
clause to exclude a person
with a court conviction even
if the person is nominated as
a delegate by the member
association. The CRC
debated over this issue
but was unable to make a
recommendation.
Dr. Prem Phakey
Member Constitutional
Review Committee.

Safety & Security of Victorian Indian

International Students
The increase in the number of International students coming
to Australia in the recent months has been tremendous. This is
particularly due to Quality education provided by Australian
Universities and Vocational colleges in Victoria. There has also been
increasing concern about student security and their living conditions
.The VISA (Victorian International Students Association) has been
formed to address and solve the issues of International students
particularly the students coming from the Indian community. The
VISA has student representatives from all the important colleges
and Universities in and around Melbourne city and has been actively
involved in a number of issues concerning the Indian students.
The proposed Aims of VISA are
z VISA will function as the focal point of reference for all
Indian students nationally (Australia-wide) on any issues they
have a concern with.
z VISA will create an open, transparent and responsible
communication network amongst all students who are Indian
by birth.
z VISA will ensure that it monitors and effectively scrutinizes
the working conditions and entitlements provided to Indian
Students and will dedicate its resources in ensuring that no
Indian Student is exploited by any employer or employment
organization and will ensure that any exploitation discovered
by CIISA of any Indian Student be prosecuted by the Australian
Workplace Authorities.
z VISA will operate as the rallying and coordination point for
any issue which might affect the day to day life of all Indian
Students and will ensure that the Australian Government and
local authorities are made aware of the needs, requirements
and concerns of all Indian Students
z It is proposed that the new organization “VISA” adopted as
its inaugural Constituent Document the Model Rules as specified
by the Associations Incorporations Act 1981 (as Amended) and
make such changes as are required to express the direct aims
and form herein suggested.

z VISA will endeavor to establish its network for the benefit Recently VISA has been involved with the Victorian police and
of all Indian Students in all University Unions/Organizations other Indian community representatives to solve the issue of
and other alike educational institutions. Security of Indian students in Victoria. Visa is actively involved with
z VISA will coordinate all significant cultural events to provide the Peer support group program formed with the help of Victorian
an effective social interaction for all Indian students. Police and prominent Indian group communities like the FIAV (
Federation of Indian Associations of Victorians ).It will also take
z VISA will enhance and further the dialogue between all
active role in setting up of the Toll free no 1800FIAV00 , a help
community representative bodies and Indian Students in
line number for the benefit of Indian students
order to provide all Indian Students with a direct benefit from
Australia’s expanding multicultural society. Dr Vipin, President VISA

voice of fiav
June 2009 11

4 / 25 - 33 Grimshaw St, Greensborough, Victoria 3088.

About us
We realize that AGEING is a difficult and anxious time for you and we at GRACE VILLA Aged Care will help allay some
of your fears. We are a 60-place nursing home and hostel owned and managed by expert professionals. Qualified
Nursing staff are present twenty fours hours a day to provide quality-nursing care for all residents of the home.
A Luxurious purpose built Nursing and Residential home with beautiful views over open mountain side.
Our warm friendly staff will make your stay happy, enjoyable and as interesting as possible. Every attempt will be
made to consider your individual needs by providing the highest quality care to our residents through: The 24 hour
attendance of our highly trained nurses and professionally trained carers and individual care.

Our mission
We endeavour to ensure a homelike, personalized environment is provided for all. We encourage all residents to
retain their identity, values and individuality. We believe it is important for people to maintain their personal and
intimate friendships and be facilitated to create new ones within the home.We believe everyone has the absolute
right to be treated with respect and dignity and experience pleasure and satisfaction.
We ensure residents have the right to come and go as they wish and are facilitated to practice religious and cultural
customs, mange their own affairs and exercise choices about all aspects of their life. Residents’ safety and security
are taken into account in the provision of care. We provide all health and personal care required by residents of our
home and assistance is given as required. A resident’s privacy and dignity is always taken into account.

Facilities
We have the state of the art facilities and our Qualified Nursing staff are present twenty fours hours a day to provide
quality-nursing care for all residents of the home.

Bed rooms
Bedrooms (Single/ Double rooms) with attached toilet and bathrooms.

Dining rooms
Recreation and Dining rooms large and comfortable enough to accommodate all the residents at any time where
any special occasion is celebrated, with regular dances and singalongs organized.

Laundry Kitchen
Laundry with large washing machines and dryers, Kitchen fitted with latest equipments large enough to
capable enough to meet the washing requirements of the cater to the needs of the residents comfortably, with
residents. delicious meals cooked by our cook, based on menu
decided by the residents.

Contact Us
Mr. C.V.Samuel or Mrs. Kay
4 / 25 - 33 Grimshaw St,
Greensborough,Victoria 3088.
Ph: 9432 2855 , Fax : 9432 2988
Email: kerala@gracevilla.com.au
voice of fiav
 12 June 2009

Travancore on the Park – Sienna Apartments

“Sienna Apartments” in “Travancore on the Park”
is central to much of everything in the heart of
Melbourne - recently voted as Australia’s Most
Liveable City.
“Sienna Apartments” is the second stage release
of the “Travancore on the Park” project being
developed by Bensons Property Group.
Established in 1994, Bensons Property Group’s core
business has been delivering quality apartments
and townhouses within the rejuvenating inner
suburbs of Melbourne. A key feature of Bensons’
success has been its ability to interpret market
trends ‘ahead of the market’ and acquire sites in
sought after locations.
Travancore is
located within
the city of
Moonee Valley in
Melbourne and
the development
is just 3km out of
Melbourne’s CBD
and just 15km
from Melbourne’s
Tullamarine
airport.
Within only a
few kilometres,
you have the
Docklands lifestyle
precinct, Carlton’s
cosmopolitan
Lygon Street,
the University of Melbourne, RMIT, The Royal
Children’s Hospital, the Royal Melbourne Hospital,
various parks and reserves, the Melbourne Zoo
and Royal Park Golf Course.
Travancore on the Park is situated at the start of Mt
Alexander Road at Melbourne’s northern gateway
and has a rich history that has long been of com-
mercial and geographical significance to Melbourne.
Mt Alexander Road was established in the 1850s
as the major commercial route to Victoria’s newly
discovered northern goldfields. Mount Alexander
itself is located near Castlemaine.
The development of the site dates back to
1848 when the Flemington Hotel was built
there. Merchant and speculator Hugh Glass then
purchased much of the surrounding land to the
north and built a magnificent mansion known as
Flemington House.
The small suburb of Travancore has a special
historical connection to India. It is named after
the former Indian south western princely state of
Travancore, ruled by the Travancore Royal Family
and which now predominately lies within the
modern state of Kerala.
In 1910 the property was purchased by Henry
Madden, who had grown up on part of the estate
after emigrating from Ireland. His brothers
included Sir John Madden, a Chief Justice of
Victoria, and Sir Frank Madden a Speaker of the
Victorian Parliament. Henry Madden bred army
horses for export to India and he renamed the
house Travancore.
From 1918 on the estate was progressively
subdivided, but the Madden family reinforced their
special affinity for India by creating the suburb of
Travancore and providing for street names like
Mooltan, Mangalore, Cashmere, Lucknow and a
park named Dehli Reserve.
The magnificent Travancore House was
demolished by the Government in 1947 to make
way for health facilities that are now part of the
Royal Children’s Hospital.
Bensons Property Group acquired an option to
purchase the Travancore on the Park site in 2002,
when it was still the headquarters and warehousing
facility for Lombards, the Paper People.
By June 2006 Bensons had settled acquisition of
the Lombards site, received planning permits from
authorities and commenced construction of Stage
1, which was completed in April 2008.
In December 2008 Bensons commenced
construction of the Stage 2 Sienna Apartments
building with its 243 apartments and townhouses.
Already over 85% of the Sienna Apartments have
been sold off the plan to investors and owner
occupiers.
Benson Property Group’s Managing Director, Rick
Curtis, told the FIAV Newsletter that Bensons is
very pleased with the interest in Stage 2 of the
development given the current more challenging
financial markets.
Stage 3 of the Travancore on the Park project
will be the Alexander Lombard Tower of 22 storeys
and 396 apartments. The sale of these apartments
is expected to commence later in 2009.
The architects responsible for the design of
Travancore on the Park are Fender Katsilidis,
renowned for Melbourne iconic residential
buildings, including the Republic Tower, HM@S
Lonsdale Apartments and Eureka Tower.
Mr Curtis said: “Fender Katsilidis will continue
in Stages 2 and 3 the themes established in the
first stage of Travancore on the Park - with a
real commitment to quality, aesthetic appeal and
function.”
“A range of features address-
ing energy and water use will
be incorporated in the design
- including solar boosted hot
water for residents, the latest
energy-saving elements in the
office complex and rainwater
harvesting for the landscaped
areas. Access by bicycle will
be actively encouraged, with
the development so close to
Melbourne’s extensive bike
path network, and there will be
racks available for occupiers
and visitors.”
Bensons says that all of the
two-bedroom apartments will
have security car parking and
a choice of nine different floor
plans. The Sienna Apartments brochure states:
“Each apartment features quality appliances,
stone bench tops, a laundry area, split-system air
conditioning, audio-visual intercom system and
is fully wired for high-speed broadband and Pay-
TV.”
And to add a little difference to the norm of
most developments, Bensons also says in its
brochure that every apartment owner will receive
a courtesy mountain bike to “enjoy the parkland
environment and explore the vibrant diversity at
your doorstep.”
As an additional service and environment benefit,
Sienna also proposes a `flexi car’ smart car hire
service, where residents will benefit 24/7 access
through car sharing without the cost and hassle of
owning one:’
More information about Travancore on the Park
and Sienna Apartments is available at: www.
bensonsgroup.com.au or www.SiennaApartments.
com.au

FIRST HOME OWNER GRANT* $26,000 + Up to $20,000 MORE FROM BENSONS**

2 Bedroom + Study Area
LD t
% pm r
SO en
85 velo pula

090516_16780

+ Carpark from $400,000

de Po

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*for First Home Buyers that qualify for the government FHOG **Apartments less than $500,000 receive $10,000; greater than $500,000 receive $20,000

www.SiennaApartments.com.au
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voice of fiav
June 2009 13

“East Brunswick is one of the coolest places on the planet” The Age, Domain

Exciting Boutique Apartment 330 Lygon St

East Brunswick
with study and carpark elvera.com.au
from
$ 
Inspired by art and the tastes of
B e n s o n Melbourne’s Lygon Street
In an Australian first, Peter Russell-Clarke, the legendary television chef
who is now a prominent artist, brings together artistic inspiration and the

Properties
renowned tastes of Melbourne throughout the interior of Elvera.
Elvera is an exciting new boutique development at 330 Lygon Street, Brunswick
East. A new community will be created within a 10 storey sculptured building
designed to maximise natural light, ventilation and space throughout. It comprises
of 100 apartments featuring spacious living plus study areas, large windows and
generous balconies with magnificent views.

(Middle Fold)
Elvera continues Bensons Property Groups’ tradition of injecting each of its
projects with a strong visual and cultural aspect.
Every buyer at Elvera will receive an exquisite kitchen gift pack that’s designed
to inspire residents to continue Lygon Street’s culinary traditions.

s #HOICEOFANDBEDROOM s 1UALITY%UROPEAN STYLEAPPLIANCES

Quality plus study area fittings and stone bench tops
Design s APARTMENTSWITH
different floorplans
s 3PLITSYSTEMAIR CONDITIONING
s 3OLAR"OOSTED(OT7ATER
s $ESIGNATEDSECURITYCARPARKING s 0ROVISIONFORPHONEDATAANDPAY46
Completion
March s ,OWENERGYKITCHENEQUIPMENT
2011 PURCHASE OFF THE PLAN FOR
HUGE STAMP DUTY SAVINGS!
Contact: 03 8602 0800
or email: sales@bensonsgroup.com.au
www.elvera.com.au

voice of fiav
14
renting & leasing
o d o and what to avoid?
t
What
All
Students encounter
the issue of renting or leasing a property
in order to have a temporary home while pursuing their
studies at a local College or University. Some students
either rent or lease a room or enter into a lease for a whole
residence with other students, hence, choosing to share
the rent and the other associated costs (electricity, gas
and water) with other students. In either instance, the
student has certain important responsibilities.
Before you decide on a room or to share in the renting/
leasing of a house, request from either the Landlord or his
Agent to show you the Lease or Tenancy Agreement.
Take time to read each clause. By reading the document
you will familiarize yourself with what the Landlord allows
and disallows you to do while in occupation of his property
or part thereof. For example, does the Lease permit you
to have pets? Or does it allow you to have others living
with you, for example, family visitors from India?
Secondly, tales abound of unscrupulous landlords
who just take a tenant’s money and give nothing in return -
they don’t do repairs, they let the house get damp.
These landlords do indeed exist, but there are also
many, many private landlords who are decent people who
have made an investment and want to keep it in good
order and earn an honest income from it.
If you go to view a house owned by a private landlord,
just keep your wits about you and go with some checkpoints
in mind. Is the house in good order externally? Is
the house generally well maintained inside? Do the
bathroom and kitchen fittings actually work? Does
that Landlord seem decent and honest, or are you
picking up nasty-piece-of-work vibes?.
If all of the above are to your satisfaction, go for it.
If they’re not, see if you can negotiate - i.e. I’d love to
move in but not until you’ve decorated/fixed the toilet/
mended those sliding slates on the roof. If they won’t
agree to this, you’re better off away from them anyway.
One downfall with private landlords is that they often
ask for a large deposit or ‘surety’ money up front. It’s
understandable why they do this, but several hundreds of
dollars isn’t something everyone can raise just like that.
Always read carefully the Lease and ascertain clearly what
is required from you in bond moneys. A month’s rental as
a bond is sufficient but there have been instances where
Landlords have asked for more. Be prepared to ask
questions if more is asked and always be prepared to
negotiate.
Thirdly, make sure you sign a Lease Contract to
make sure you’ve got your rights, and read this document
careful BEFORE YOU SIGN IT. If you are not sure about
certain terms seek advice either from a qualified Lawyer or
from your local Residential Tenancies Association.
Fourthly, if you or your friends pay the rent, pay
it on time and always request a receipt either from the
Landlord if you are dealing with a Landlord or from the
Estate Agent if they are doing the work of the Landlord
in managing the property.
voice of fiav
June 2009
PETER VLAHOS LL.B
RENTING FLATS
If renting a FLAT through a BODY CORPORATE,
tenants have to adhere to multitudinous very strict
guidelines, and if they don’t there are many routes of
recourse to make sure they do.
In flats, a BODY CORPORATE will often provide
things that private landlords do not, such as car parking,
communal lighting, communal areas, gardens, communal
TV aerials and sometimes security. They might provide a
on hand 24 hours a day service to deal with maintenance
problems and emergencies, and they have to adhere to
a strict code of conduct which requires them to deal with
your complaint sooner than later or invite scrutiny and
reprimand at a Tribunal (VCAT). They also provide you with
lots of literature to help you with your tenancy, you have
a Housing Officer who you can call upon at any time for
help and advice, and the staff at the BODY CORPORATE
would treat you with courtesy at all times.
However, that doesn’t mean that BODY CORPORATES
are perfect. They are often large organisations and matters
like paperwork get lost and neglected. Because of this
there will always be a percentage of people whose repairs
does not get attended to on time, or who will receive letters
stating that they are in arrears when the tenant has made
all payments requested. However, if a tenant complains,
matters are usually sorted out forthwith but provided your
complaint is a genuine and has attached to it a reasonable
grievance.
Although living in a BODY CORPORATE has its
advantages, it major disincentive is that they might charge
higher rents than private landlords. After all, they have to
make up for their staffing costs, the high standard of service
they are required to provide, and the extras that come with
your flat, such as that communal aerial, maintaining your
grounds and garden, and cleaning and maintaining all
communal areas.
As with private Landlords, your relationship depends
again on reading carefully all rental agreements and in
dealing with BODY CORPORATES one has to become
familiar with the rules and regulations which govern the
function of such bodies. It advised, if you decide to rent
through a body corporate as an individual or as a group
ALWAYS make the effort to be an active member and
participant at monthly body corporate meetings. These
meetings are important and should not be missed or treated
lightly as they present a Tenant with the opportunity to (1)
seek information on issues of concern, (2) raise certain
concerns with the Management Committee requiring
its attention and (3) one might receive useful insight
on what in future might be introduced, modified or
changed as far as it concerns the administration of the
BODY CORPORATE.
These are only a few tips or guidelines just to alert
you and your friends they are not a substitute for real
advice from the appropriate sources in a given situation
you might face. Nevertheless, always remember – if in
doubt, do not agree or sign and always seek advice.
Seek that advice sooner than later.
And good luck!
June 2009 15


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voice of fiav
16 June 2009

Australia India Goan Overseas Association

Tamil Sangam of Victoria celebrates
A ustralia India Tamil Sangam
(AITS) is a conglomeration
it’s 30th (Pearl) Anniversary
of Tamil speaking community
which traces it’s origin to the State
of Tamilnadu in Southern India,
although many members currently
are actually from various other “An anniversary is a time to
regions of the world. celebrate the joys of today, the
Under the auspices of Hon Dr T J Rao, AITS was formed in 1998 at memories of yesterday, and the
hopes of tomorrow.”
Jells Park, Wheelers Hill with Mr. Chandrasekar as the First President
and Mr. Vasan Srinivasan as its Patron. On Saturday, 7th February 2009
the Goan Overseas Association
The purpose of Incorporation of AITS is to bring the Tamil community of Victoria (G.O.A) held a dinner
under 1 Governing body to represent and address the issues of Tamil dance to celebrate 30 years of
speaking Indian community as well as serve as a platform to share the commitment to Goan values, culture
rich heritage, culture within the broader Australian Community. and welfare of members. This
AITS has a large membership base, with members represented in milestone occasion was attended by
Cake cutting by GOA - Victoria Founder Members
various spheres of the society, like Medical, Information Technology, over 580 people and took place at
Consultants, Accountants, Legal, as well as self made entrepreneurs. the Springvale City Hall. Members
and guests walked in awe as they
AITS members are also associated with various other groups, like entered the well decorated hall
music, dance, sports, cultural and art groups that provide them a unique and sat at their tables, which
distinction of having an active cultural calendar for AITS members. were decked with beautiful flower
AITS regularly meet and conduct events like music concerts, spiritual arrangements.
discourses, dance, kid’s events, game and sporting events. Mr George Lekakis, Chairman
Music and classical dance of the Victorian Multicultural
Commission (VMC) was the chief
Most of AITS members and their children are in some way associated
guest at this grand occasion. Mr
with one or more forms of Indian Classical Vocal and/or Instrumental Shabbir Wahid, President of the
Mr Andrew Mendes - GOA President, Mr George
music like Carnatic Vocal, Carnatic Instrumental (Violin, Veena, Lekakis - Chairman VMC, Ms Venessa Afonso - Federation of Indian Association
Mridungam, Kanjeera, Ghatam etc...) as well as Indian classical dance GOA Secretary of Victoria was also present. The
and other forms of fine arts. founder members of the association
Sports were honoured during the formal
proceedings with a tribute and
AITS members actively involve themselves in sporting indoor and cake cutting ceremony.
outdoor sports like Cricket, Tennis, Badminton, Carom, Chess, indoor
Mr Andrew Mendes, President
Bowling and basketball Clubs. Frequent tournaments and outdoor family of the G.O.A welcomed everybody
curry barbeque are pretty common socializing events. and spoke of the various social,
Philanthropy cultural and sporting events that the
AITS’s Curry Lunch at Sacred Heart Mission Association organizes on a regular
basis for members and friends and
Feed the needy at Sacred Heart Mission – St Kilda. Boxing Day and stated that he was delighted to see
Easter. many youth of today attend these
Cultural dance events and was confident that the
Mental Health Foundation – Fund-raising events to raise funds and
awareness. G.O.A will remain an important
part of their lives. Mr Lekakis delivered a special message from the Premier of
Fund raising for Decent Food and Shelter for Terminally Ill Cancer Victoria and congratulated the G.O.A on achieving 30 years of service to members
patients – Adyar Cancer Foundation, Chennai, India. in Victoria. He also highlighted that that the VMC supports and promotes cultural
Religion and philosophy diversity and strives towards a cohesive, respectful and fair society.
AITS have a wide representation of members of various religious faiths. The event showcased an appreciation of the richness of Goan culture by
Annual events in philosophy and religious discourses are organized for featuring traditional Konkani folk songs and the highlight of the night was the Goan
cultural unity of the community and foster cultural harmony amongst the cultural dance, which was performed by four duo wearing colourful costumes. The
dance performance received a thunderous applause from the crowd. Glimpses of
Indian and the larger Australian Society.
Goan scenery, culture and heritage were projected on a large screen on the stage
FIAV and to commemorate the 30 years anniversary, a Goan cook book, compiled and
AITS has been a member of FIAV since the very beginning, and has personally signed by the famous author Joyce Fernandes, was given to attendees as
had strong links in organizing FIAV projects like Domestic Violence, a memento.
Aged care, and volunteering support to other member organizations of Scrumptious Goan buffet, catered by D&S - Silver Platter, was enjoyed by all. Live
FIAV. music, played by the very entertaining band – “After Dark” filled the hall, to which
feet tapped under tables and tingled to get to the dance floor.
Some of the popular events where AITS has had substantially assisted
Numerous prizes, most of which were procured and shipped from Goa, were
FIAV with Volunteers in projects such as, Dinner at Brand receptions back
distributed throughout the night. The successful event was the accomplishment of
in 2005, annual FIAV sports day, Commonwealth Games in 2006. The the hard work and dedication of the G.O.A Managing Committee of 2008-2009.
key challenges were to organize resources, volunteers, drivers, vehicles, Deo Borem Corunk! Aggie Da Costa,
transportation, liaise with Government authorities etc. Every year 26 Social Secretary - GOA Victoria
January, AITS willingly helps FIAV in the Australia Day celebrations. FOR MORE INFORMATION please visit www.goav.org.au

More info: australiaindia.tamilsangam@gmail.com

voice of fiav
June 2009 17

voice of fiav
18 June 2009

Gujarati Association of Victoria

Gujarati Association of Victoria (GAV) (Gujarati Samaj) is a non-profit cultural organization setup (Est. 1982) in the State of Victoria, Australia, to
promote the cultural heritage of Gujarat - a state from India.
For last 25+ years GAV has grown from strength to strength due to the solid effort and dedication by past and present committees and members. The
aim is to achieve and preserve Gujarati heritage from cultural, educational and recreational activities such as:
Navratri, Diwali, sports, seminars on educational programs, cultural programs and religious activities. GAV organized an Antakshri competition on
September 20, 2008, which was an evening of enjoyment for all participants and audience.
Last year Navratri was celebrated during the period October 3 - 11, 2008. For the first time in the history of Gujarati Association, Navratri on October
4, 2008 was celebrated at Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre’s main basket-ball hall in Albert Park. Nearly 4000 persons attended this program and
enjoyed Garbas, Dandiyas and Sanedo, which is a popular Gujarati dance. Navratri program is attracting crowd not only from Gujarati community but it has
become an event for all other Indian Communities settled in Melbourne.
Also to mark end of the Hindu calendar, GAV celebrated Diwali night with a short cultural program presented by small children aged 4 to 14 followed
by Diwali Dinner on November 1, 2008. To promote Gujarati culture, GAV organized a Sangit Sandhya (Musical evening) that included Gujarati artists
from Mumbai on August 3, 2008.
On May 2, 2009, GAV is presenting a fun filled program Hangama 2009 of Taal and Dhamal. You are most welcome to attend. Tickets are
available from any of the cultural committee members or visit our website www.gav.org.au
For further information contact the website given above.

INDIAN SENIOR CITIZENS

ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA INC.
When the elderly parents of a young man named Parag Modi
were migrating to Melbourne, he was motivated to call a meeting
of Indian seniors to consider the formation of a group to look
into the needs of elderly Indians, particularly new migrants, who
were culturally and linguistically isolated. At the meeting held
on 15 April 1995 at the Ecumenical migration Centre, Fitzroy an
interim working committee was formed to start an organisation
called “Indian Senior Citizens Forum”. The working committee,
with Dr. Prem Phakey as its founding president, laid down the
aims and objectives of the Forum. After a couple of meetings,
held at the Ecumenical Hall, further meetings were held at the
Coburg Community Centre. The Forum started using the facilities
of the FIAV in Prahran in 1996. In the beginning of 1997, a
constitution was drawn and on 13 November 1997 “Indian Senior
Citizens Association of Victoria” was incorporated with the office
of the Consumers Affairs. ISCA boasts to have in its constitution
a clause stating that it is “a non-religious, non-political, non-profit
making and voluntary association devoted to the welfare of older
people of Indian origin living in Victoria.”
Since becoming a member of FIAV in 1997, ISCA has always
helped FIAV supplying willing volunteers to man the office and do
other social duties. It has always promoted the FIAV and stood
by it even in times of crisis. With growth in its membership, ISCA
moved to a larger hall at Mount Waverley Youth Centre in May 2002
and since then this has been the main venue for its indoor activities.
Since its formation ISCA has made considerable progress under
the guidance of its past presidents Dr. Prem Phakey (1995 to 1999),
Mrs. Shashi Gajree (1999 to 2001) and Mrs. Krishna Arora (2001 to
2007). Currently ISCA is supported by grants from Human Services,
the VMC and the City of Monash and it has projects in partnership
with MIC and the Strathdon Community Centre.
ISCA is much more than a social club and has a well balanced
voice of fiav
and well organised programme of activities. It follows a “Healthy
Living” programme with welfare, social and outdoor activity
components. For example, this year In January a luxury coach
trip to Healesville Sanctuary including a guided tour was a
popular outdoor activity. Also in January members joined in a
Cultural Celebration Day with lunch and tour of the Strathdon
Community Centre’s aged care facility. The February activity
had two components; a session on Yoga and an information talk
on “Alternative Medicine” in India. In March Dr. Gurcharn Ubhi
gave a talk on “Depression and Anxiety”. In April a well known
cardiologist Dr. Deepak Haikerwal will speak about issues related
to the heart. A picnic in the botanical Gardens is scheduled for
May. In the coming months talks by experts on Osteoporosis
and on Gastroenterology have been arranged. The AGM at a city
restaurant, the Multicultural Day function, the Diwali celebrations
and the end of the year Christmas and break up party are its usual
established events. ISCA endeavours to harness the skills of Indian
health professionals with expertise in medical, legal, financial and
other relevant fields for the benefit of the elderly Indians.
Presently ISCA’s 300 plus members are divided into groups.
Each group is looked after by a co-ordinator who keeps in touch
with the listed members and disperses relevant information about
meetings and other affairs. This way ISCA has developed a close
knit network of volunteers and members. ISCA also produces a
quarterly newsletter for its members. At all of its indoor activities
occasionally free but commonly heavily subsidised sumptuous
hot vegetarian and non-vegetarian lunch, cold and hot drinks are
provided.
For ISCA related matters and for information about joining the
association, please ring the current president
Dr. Prem Phakey on 9560-9607.
 June 2009 19

Melbourne School Teacher Wins Australian

Achievement Award
Australian Federal Government has honoured Varghese John, a mathematics/science teacher at
Footscray City College in Melbourne, by awarding him the 2009 Australian Sports Achievement Award.
He received this award from Honourable Nicola Roxon, the Federal Minister of Health in a ceremony
conducted at Yarraville Tennis Club,Yarraville
John has been a teacher at Footscray City College for the last eight years and was considered for this
award for his outstanding achievement as a coach. His students reached state levels in volleyball and
badminton and attained a respectable position as a result of his efforts.
He also received ‘Coach of the Year’ award from the Western Bayside District in 2006, 2007 and 2008.
He also served as the national coach of Lesotho under 20 from 1996-2000. Varghese John is a native of
Kayamkulam, Kerala and is the son of late Mr P.M John and Elizabeth John.
Mr.John-Varghese

TARA RAJKUMAR OAM

T
ara Rajkumar was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the Australia Day Honours list
on 26th January, 2009 for service to the performing arts as a teacher, choreographer and performer of
classical Indian dance. It is recognition of nearly forty years of Tara’s dedication to the performing arts in three
continents, India, the United Kingdom and Australia with over twenty-five of these in Australia.
Tara was born in Kozhikode in Kerala. Based in Delhi, she established a high reputation in India as an
accomplished dancer in the classical dance styles of Mohiniattam and Kathakali. In the early 1970s she moved
to London where she performed widely in Europe and the UK. She founded the first National Academy of
Indian Dance in 1979 with government support and was its first Director. The Akademi, as it is now called, is
highly respected for its leadership and innovative programs and is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.
She is recognised internationally for her extensive and pioneering work for the revival of Mohiniattam. Her
Natya Sudha Dance Company has toured her productions from Melbourne to various countries including
India. The Natya Sudha School is highly regarded for its trailblazing activities and the adherence to high
standards and the purity of the dance styles. Tara and Natya Sudha have performed widely for arts festivals
and associations in Australia.
Tara has served and contributed in various committees in Australia and England in her continuing quest to promote the role of Indian
performing arts to bridge cultures. She has given lectures and courses at universities, museums and schools and been invited as keynote
speaker at national and international conferences. As a part of the Louise Lightfoot project, she recently organized a successful exhibition
for the Monash Asia Institute on Lightfoot, an Australian dance pioneer who brought Indian dance to Australia in the 1930s.
Tara Rajkumar has been the recipient of several awards and recognition. She was included in the Honour Roll of Women Shaping the
Nation on the occasion of Australia’s Centenary of Federation. She has held Fellowships at Monash University where she is currently an
Adjunct Fellow.

A NEW DIMENSION FOR COMMUNITY HELP:

FIAV TOLLFREE NUMBER
The Indian International Students bidding and Telecommunication Cost
have for some time experienced for 5 years; Cambridge International
bashing and beating mostly in and College, AITE have paid for staff cost for
around Western Suburbs. This 6 months.
situation has received widespread The number was launched at a special
publicity. The Victoria Police under ceremony held on 15 May 2009 at Alley
the Police Western Reference bar at 108 Flinders Street, where a
Group (Volunteers from Indian sizable representation was present from
Community, Indian Media and Victoria Police, Members of Parliament,
Officers of Victoria Police) and the Councillors, Department of Immigration,
FIAV have been working together Multi-cultural Affairs, Department of
for community involvement and Foreign Affairs and Indian Consul
solution of the problem. General.
As a step forward the FIAV has Victoria Police conducted a 2-hour
acquired a toll free number for any training program to volunteers that shall
person to use help, if required. eventually be manning the call centre. To
Launch of Indian International Students Helpline
This number can be used by the start with, the helpline will be attended
international students and people during 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM
facing domestic violence. It is easy to remember this number 1800 FIAV 00. to 11:00 PM. The number is open for assisting the international students and people
The call centre at present is comprised of a small team run by volunteers and facing domestic violence. Trained volunteers and paid staff will respect privacy of the
international students represented by VISA (Victorian Indian Students Association). This caller and the information will be passed on to a Social Worker.
initiative is supported and funded by a few popular Colleges and RTO’s in Melbourne. If you can contribute financially or share the work, please write to FIAV: contact@fiav.
St George’s Institute of Professionals has committed to support the Smart Number asn.au
voice of fiav
 20 June 2009

KALAMANDIR SCHOOL OF INDIAN DANCE

Kalamandir School was her
dream for Australia, to promote
and retain the rich cultural
heritage of her style of ODISSI
– the Indian classical dance
form, that she had pioneered to
spread and popularise beyond
the national boundaries and
succeeded to enthral audiences
all over the world and attracted
interest of many budding
students. Melbourne residents
are grateful for her contribution
and look forward to appreciate
continuation of her style of
Odissi through coming generations as will be pursued
tirelessly by this school.
Kalamandir (Kala means arts and mandir is
temple), school of Indian dances, as possibly one of
the youngest school of Indian dances in Melbourne,
takes pride to be an affiliated member of Federation
of Indian Associations
of Victoria Inc since
inception. Noteworthy
feature of this school
is its relatively youthful
and vibrant professional
representation of classic
Indian culture to the wider
cross cultural community
of Melbourne. This also
helps mutual enrichment
of the school itself as an
organisation and FIAV.
This school also takes
pride of its rich dance
heritage of ODISSI – the Indian classical dance style Australia, overseas, in India, US and Canada.
as stepped into third generation of maintaining the Mrs Panigrahi was the inspiration and will continue
continuum. The dance style rescued from obscurity to be so in future. Great responsibility rests on
in the last few decades of cultural renaissance, by Joyoti and her school. She only needs patronage
Great Guru Kelucharan Mahapatra at first, and then and encouragement from the wider community.
subsequent generation of world-wide popularity by
With realisation of “learning never ends”, Joyoti
Late Smt Sanjukta Panigrahi through her untiring
and her school continue to develop new performing
dedication at the second stage, who then till her
works and present professional performances. Her
sad demise continued to bestow the prowess to
concerts are almost in all cases had been for noble
her hand woven disciple Joyoti Das of Melbourne.
causes to raise funds for worthwhile community and
Joyoti, as the principal teacher and resident artiste of
spiritual causes. All profits from such concerts are
Kalamandir strides to maintain that heritage through
donated to such causes so far. She feels privileged
her dedicated students of the school.
to be able to impart lessons to young and old dance
Mrs Sanjukta Panigrahi was one, who strode students, and thus contribute to the promotion of
tirelessly to reach and retain cultural identity for rich Indian art forms and help develop a sense of
Indian arts, through her Odissi dance style. She had humility to contribute to her students.
taken this art-form to great heights, to every country
With this so far about the school, its background
of the world, earning remarkable appreciation,
and formation and its cultural involvement with
making a mark for India in international cultural
FIAV, we can further trace back its achievement so
scene. She did that without compromising the
far in the past and its plan for future activity we will
intrinsic Indian values. She epitomised what is finest
continue to be interactive through such newsletter
and most movingly spiritual art of Indian classical
in future. In the meantime, with support from all
dance for more than last thirty years. Odissi dance
concerned, this school will strive to make a lasting
had become synonymous with Sanjukta’s name all
mark in cultural scene in Melbourne and Australia.
over the world.
For information: on 61-3-9569 7272 /or browse
Kalamandir was her dream for Australia. She was
the Patron Master Artist and Guru of Joyoti, the www.kalamandir.info
teacher artist. Joyoti is one of her chosen students,
whom she had picked up during one of her tour of
Australia in 1985, and had nurtured her with tutelage
of her style of Odissi dance. She represents the
resultant development of one of our young Indian
dance student, who grew up in Australia, from a
young age and reached a high level of excellence
in dance performance, as reviewed by critics and
connoisseurs, here in Melbourne, interstate in

RMIT Professor of Indian origin receives accolade from the President of India
RMIT University’s Professor Suresh Bhargava, Dean of the School of Applied Sciences,
has received the degree of Doctor of Science, Honoris Causa, from Rajasthan University,
Jaipur, India.
Her Excellency, Pratibha Patil, President of India, welcomed the honorary degrees being
conferred on Professor Bhargava and two other academics, Professor Goverdhan Mehta and
Shri RN Aggarwal. “I congratulate them on this. Universities help a nation in giving it economic
vitality, scientific prowess, a broad outline of social change and global competitiveness,
through innovation and research. The activities of good universities must strive to contribute
to the richness of the cultural, literary and social aspects of their immediate community,” the
President said.
The honorary degrees were awarded by the Governor of Rajasthan and Chancellor of the
University, SK Singh, at Rajasthan University’s 25th convocation ceremony, held on the
University’s sprawling lawns in March 2009. The Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ashok Gehlot, the State Higher Education Minister, Shanti Dhariwal,
and the President’s husband, educationist Devi Singh Shekhawat, were among the guests.
Professor Bhargava told guests, television and print media that the support and dedication of his colleagues, business partners, students, researchers
and friends from all over the world had been an integral part of his journey in the world of science. He thanked Professor Peter Coloe, Pro Vice-
Chancellor and Professor Margaret Gardner AO, Vice-Chancellor and President of RMIT for their support. “Today, the world is participating in a global
dynamic that never existed before. New bridges are being built across nations, continents, and combined discoveries are being made in every field.
Knowledge is being made available for those seeking it and information is being shared in a manner never seen before,” Professor Bhargava said.
The University of Rajasthan is the oldest institution of higher learning in Rajasthan. It has 36 postgraduate departments, 15 recognized research
centers, six constituent colleges and 500 affiliated colleges spanning over six districts of Rajasthan.
Source: RMIT website, Edited version reproduced with permission.

For Advertising in Voice of FIAV, Contact : Tel: 03 9671 4442

E-mail: admin@fiav.asn.au
voice of fiav
 June 2009 21

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE:
COMMON BELIEFS AND MYTHS
Every other day we hear stories about a particular violence. Domestic violence can include a range sleep as normal children of that age do.
family member being abusive to other family of behaviours, such as: School age children may not like to go
members. At times, we have been approached by Physical abuse (i.e. hitting, punching, pulling to school or show difficult behaviours
distressed family members asking for help, either by hair, choking, pinching and sh shoving
o or at school. Teenagers feel angry and
to mediate their dispute te or request the abuser to inflicting physical injuries on covered ed pa
ppart of the agitated all the times and may engage
stop violent behaviour.. Re Research shows that in body not visible to others). in risk-taking behaviours outside home.
domestic violence, the abuser buserer is generally a male Emotional and psychological abuse (no (notot giving They may feel resentful towards the
partner and the violencee is direct directed towards the emotional al support
upport when needed, silent treatm
treat
treatment, violent parent (father) or towards the
female partner. On many occasions, cchildren and expression
ssion of extreme jealousy and accusati
accusation
sat victimm (m
(mother)
mo because they have to
other family members may be implicated iin the off sexual infidelity, cont
controlling the person with protect heher,
er, as she is unable to protect
cycle of violence. It is estimated that more than anger and not letting her to speak her mind). herself.
33% women
omen
me in Australia are affected by domestic Verbal abuse (calling names, frighting, Why shoouuld you suffer in silence
violence. Indi
ndividuals and institutions working in
nd undermining in front of others). then?
area of domestic tic violence advice that community Many women (also (als men, if they suffer
Sexual abuse (forcing the partner to have sex
still believes thatat domestic violence is a private domestic violence) feel ashamed of o
against their wishes, force the partner to engage
matter of the fam mily and any intervention in the being in an abusive relationshiponship.
hip. They
in a sexual practice that they are not comfortable
area can make it worse for the family. Domestic may blame themselves es for
fo the partner’s
p
with, making the partner to wear clothes that
violence is seen
een
en as a ‘bit of rough time for the violent behaviour.
they are not comfortable with).
family’ or ‘bit of a domestic
d incident’ which will It should be no noted that violence
get better with the paassage of time or it will ease Social abuse (isolating the partner from seeing
people who could offer them support, controlling is violation of bbasic human rights.
as the time
ime ggets better
be for the family. The fact is No violence, wheth heth
ether intentional or
that domestic ic violence
vio does not get better with the partner’s life by dictating who they can see
or not see, putting down the partners in front non-intentional is accep cceptable in our
time and the cycle lee of violence does not break community. Violence creates ates unequal
until it is addressed d appropriately. In this article of others and telling false stories about the
partner). relationships and causes es an atmosphere
atmo
I will explain n the meaning of domestic violence of fear in the family. Viole
V olence destroys
and how it i may cripple the family and creates an Spiritual abuse (not letting the partner to
honest communicatio on bbetween partners
atmospher
mosphere
phere of ffear which is destructive both for engage in their spiritual practice/ religion or
and damages trust betw tw
ween people.
the victims andnd perpetr
perp
erpetrator. forcing them to follow a religion they do not
want to). It takes a lot of courageage to break the
ag
What is domestic or fa family violence? silence on domestic violence nce. Speaking
Family violence is a pattern of behaviour Financial abuse (not giving enough money to
up about your exper perience
ence is a brave
b step
where one partner in an intimate relationship partner so that she always remains dependant
towards your reccove very and wellbeing.
tries to dominate
inate and control
con
c the other with on him, questioning the partner’s reasonable
expenses, incurring debts and forcing the partner Domestic viol oleence is not a private
physical or psychological al means. Such control matter anymore. It is i a crime in Australia.
and domination inflict flict pain and suffering not to sign loan agreements against her wishes).
By remaining g silent
silennt you may put you
only on the victim but also on the children and Effects of domestic violence on women and
and your children
ch dren at risk. Sometimes,
other members rs who witness th the violence. children
speaking oout can be a risk. It is your
Family Law Act 1975 describes family Domestic violence has enormous effect on decision in n th
he end to undertake or not
violence a conduct: actual ual or threate
threatened, by women and children. They feel confused and to undertak ke the risk.
one person towards the he other
ther that creates fear scaredd aboutt the ffamily set up. Women experience
As a com
comm
community we should condemn
or apprehension about the personal safety and a higher
igherr rates of miscarriage, frequen
frequently makem
family y viole
violenc
violence.
wellbeing of the other. Research shows that th vague
gue complaints (such as headach
headache, m migraine,
joint pain, lethargyrgy and tiredness)
tiredness), sh
show higher The Federation
t of Indian Associations
in the large majority of cases, the perpetrators tor
levels of stress, use anti-depressants,
anti-depressants tranquillisers
tr (FIAV) has produced a DVD titled ‘Do
of domestic violence are men. In 2002-03 thee
or pain killers, wwithdraw
thdraw from friend
friends and family not suffer in silence’. You may get free
total number of Australian victims of domestic
who support them and have fewer life-coping copy of the DVD by calling 1800 FIAV
violence were of the order of 418, 100, of which
and problem solving skills. 00 (i.e. 1800 3428 00)
87% were women.
Similarly, violence and witnessing violence Violence Against Women, Australia
Types of domestic violence
affects children of all ages. They feel confused, Says NO. Ring 24 hours Confidential
When we talk about domestic violence, people helpline: 1800 200 526
normally believe it to be the acts of physical sad, angry and frightened. Infants and toddlers
become stressed and agitated and may not eat or Sushil Sharma,
Community Services Director, FIAV

For the Safety and Security of Indian International Students

and Victims of Domestic Violance of Indian Origin

F EDERATION OF I NDIAN A SSOCIATIONS OF

V ICTORIA INC FREE CALL FREE CALL
MON - FRI - 10am to 5pm & 7 pm to 11pm

voice of fiav
22
Indian Classical Music –
bridging the North-South divide
T he sound of music, known as Naada in Sanskrit, is defined as “continuous
pleasing sensation”. Naada is the primordial sound, which is the subtlest of
all elements – Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Ether. The association of Indian music with
Hindu philosophy and religious thinking is well documented. Music is cited as a means
to the end of ultimate salvation according to Hindu philosophy. The association of
Gods with music follows the intertwining of music and religion; for instance, Lord
Shiva is associated with the drum, Lord Krishna with the flute, Goddess Saraswati with
the Veena etc. The common name by which Indian music is referred to is Sangeeta –
indeed the ancient texts define Sangeeta as a composite of
vocal music, instrumental music and dance.
For several centuries, throughout the Indian entity these
concepts of Naada and Sangeeta, painted on the canvas of
Hinduism, have been a potent unifying force of a diverse
populace in the subcontinent.
In this context, it is important to appreciate that similar
concepts have been at the foundation and development of
both major styles of Indian classical music i.e. the north Indian
Hindustani style, and the south Indian Carnatic style. In both
styles, the Raaga (representing the melodic framework) and
Taala (representing the rhythmic framework) are the two
main elements of music. The nomenclature of the structure
of the saptaswara system (i.e. seven notes in the musical
scale – Sa Ri Ga Ma Pa Dha Ni) is common to both styles.
A raaga is essentially a structural element, which defines the
intonation of swaras, as well as their order and duration. The
‘what’ and ‘how’ characteristics of a raaga such as the swaras
used and the ascent-descent are defined by the aarohana (the
ascending scale) and avarohana (the descending scale). The
permutations and combinations of swaras being countless,
the possibilities of raagas are endless. Even today, new raagas are created in both
styles of music by contemporary musicians and composers. Given the likeness in the
underlying concepts it is no wonder that there are several raagas that are similar of
even identical between the two styles of music – a couple of popular examples being
Hamsadhwani, Keervani. The concept of the tanpura (drone) providing the basic tone
note is a very important aspect of both styles.
Music in both styles has been traditionally transmitted and learnt orally rather
then textual references. Here again the influence of Hindu philosophy and culture
can be seen. Hindu religious works such as Vedas, Puranas etc have been taught and
transmitted orally down the generations. This concept and tradition of learning gave
rise to the Gurukula system where the student pretty much stayed with the master for
BRIEF HISTORY
The Tamil Society of Melbourne came into
existence during 2003 with talks by visiting scholars
from Tamil Nadu, visiting retirement villages and
organising cultural events such as ‘Deepavali’ and
‘New Year celebrations’ by like- minded Tamils
living in the Monash area. In Feb’ 2004 the Society
was formerly registered as an incorporated body
and was inaugurated by
TAMIL Dr.Janardna Rao the then
Hon. Consul General for
SOCIETY OF
India in Melbourne on 21
April 2004 along with Tamil
New Year Celebrations at
MELBOURNE the Kelwatson Hall, Burwood
East. Since then the society
INC has successfully organised
many cultural events
including annual celebrations
Great Tamil Laureates such as ‘Thiru Valluvar’, ‘
Arumuga Navalar’, ‘Kirubanantha Variyar’, ‘Cee
Pa Adthanar’ etc that included annual student
competitions. During these occasions most leading
Tamil artists of Melbourne have been honoured
for their contributions to the Tamil community of
voice of fiav
June 2009
years, imbibing knowledge and skills. In Hindustani music this system is referred to as
Gharaanaa, and in Carnatic music it is referred to as Gurukula-vaasam. A Gharaanaa
basically represents a lineage of musicians, their generations of disciples and the
styles they represent. Each Gharaanaa has its own unique artistic discipline besides
the common features of Hindustani music shared by all Gharaanaas. The Gharaanaas
are generally named after the names of places they originated from – for example,
Gwalior, Agra, Patiala, Kiraanaa, Delhi – or in some cases the name of the founder
– for example, Alladiya Khan. In Carnatic music the tradition of Gurukula-vaasam
was in vogue several decades ago, but is now less prevalent
compared to the Gharaanaas in Hindustani music. In the
present day, students of Carnatic music learn from their
guru(s) for a number of years and then incorporate their
own creativity as a result of self-exploration. That said,
stalwarts of Carnatic music have created unique styles of
their own in terms of various performance aspects which
are immortally associated with them – examples are the
“GNB style” of vocal maestro GN Balasubramiam, or the
“Parur style” of violin maestro MS Gopalakrishnan.
Beyond a point, differences emerge between the two
styles of music, which provide for uniqueness – for instance
Hindustani music places special emphasis on the time theory
of raagas. That is, there are rules that govern the performance
of raagas based on the time of day – this has given rise to
raagas categorised as ‘morning raagas’, ‘afternoon raagas’
etc. This time theory does not apply to Carnatic music, and
all raagas can be sung at any time of day.
However, despite these understandable differences,
collaboration between the two styles through concepts like
the jugal-bandi (featuring one Hindustani music artiste and
one Carnatic music artiste) has flourished due to the common foundation that these
styles share, which has further strengthened music as the predominant unifying force
of India.
One can go on and on…in summary, though both the classical music forms of India
have developed from a single foundation, and continue to benefit from each other,
they have grown to become two independent systems of music on the basis of a
variety of musical and performance considerations. These highly sophisticated forms
of music that have withstood the travails of the Indian civilization and polity for many
centuries are indeed a source of great pride to all people of Indian origin.
Murali Kumar,
Artistic Director, RaagaSudha School of Carnatic Music,
Email: violinmurali@yahoo.com
Victoria. The society also organised two ‘International Tami Short Film
Festivals’ during 2005 and 2007. The Tamil Society’s regularly organises
literary and spiritual talks by visiting scholars including Santhalinga
Ramaswamy Adigalar of Perur, Swami Bothinatha of Hawwai, Swami
Omkarandha, Dr.T.R.Rajagopalan, Dr. A. Yogeswaran etc. TSM also
has released many books and audio CDs in Australia promoting Tamil
culture and arts; notable among them are ‘Arumuga Navalar’, Ninaivu
malar , and 3 audio cassette set, 63 Nayanmar CDs,’History of Tamils’ ,
‘Yallpana Tamil Aggarathi’ and Dr.A. Kandiah’s three books published.
RECENT ACTIVITIES
The Society celebrated ‘Thaipoosam’ at the Kundrathu Kumran
temple recently on 8th Feb’09 with ‘Palkudam’,’avadi’ ‘08 Murugan
Potri’ in Tamil with special prayers for the war effected Tamils of Sri
Lanka. Last year the society celebrated ‘Tamil Isai Malai’ and a ‘Short
Film Festival’.
FUTURE ACTIVITIES
Forth coming activities are book release and talk by noted Indian
Tamil writer Jayamohan on Sunday 26th April 2009. This is a special
event in support of innocent Sri Lankan Tamils facing a worst human
catastrophe at present, details published in this issue. The society
is also planning ‘Paaniru Thirumurai Vizha’ and ‘Thaninayag Adigalr’
celebrations’ later in the year
For information contact President N. Sundaresan 0422896181 or
email tsmel@bigpond.com
 June 2009 23

THE ART OF MAGIC IN Telugu Association of Australia inc

MELBOURNE
Magic is a fine art and science, full with fun, joy, love, laughter, colours, wonders and thrills. LEARN
MAGIC, LOVE MAGIC AND ENJOY MAGIC. For learning ‘Magic’, you need a firm decision to work
and achieve something new in life. Set a goal for personality development to become a good magician.
Everything is simple, if you wish with self-confidence. All you need is your two hands and an active
working mind and success is yours.
Magic is one of the oldest
‘Ancient Art’ and an accepted
form of ‘Entertainment’ that has
universal appeal to young and
old. There is no ‘Tantra-Mantra’
or ‘witchcraft’ in the magic art. In
all the great magic shows of the
world’s greatest magicians like
K. Lal (Sr. & Jr.), P.C.Sorcar (Sr.
& Jr.), Hakasa, O.P. Sharma,
Shankar, Gopinath Muthukad
or even myself “ASHOKA ROY”
from India; David Copperfield, Jeff
Ashoka Roy, Hakasha, K. Lal, Sorcor(Jr.), Monika
Mcbride or Siegfried and Roy from
Las Vegas; Vellary Fukai, Hikari
from Japan, you will find in their
performances full of art, science, mathematical logic and special lighting effects. They all have offered
super conjuring performances full of colours, wonders, laughter, thrills and spellbinding illusions.
Magic lovers like a magic gift box full of tricks and puzzles. The first contact with a magician might
take place at a birthday party, a show at your school, at a restaurant table, in a dance party or a seen in
a movie, never mind, where, when and how, but the impression it leaves behind matters. You wonder,
“How did they do that? Why and how it became possible? It was looking impossible, but it happened. We
enjoy music tricks with real excitement; when dollars vanish and reappear from nowhere. Where did that
handkerchief go? How that ‘Magic Stick’ came from the thin air? How that beautiful lady was cut in three
places and still smiling? How a baby was floating in the midair? Possibilities are endless.
If all this excites you, well, now is your chance to find out how? You can learn magic in Melbourne
with Magician ASHOKA ROY. Magic knowledge makes you proud and hero among your peer group.
You can learn mysteries of mind-reading, puzzles, dazzling disappearances, confusing cards, coin tricks
and production of Vibhuti / Kumkum, Dollars from thin air.
Magic is the new ‘Rock and Roll’ that everyone can learn. You can definitely get mastery and joy in
magic by practice with positive thinking and self-confidence. Speech is part of the magic trick, what you
say with joy and ever smiling face. Magic show may begin with the wave of magic wand, tip of the tongue
or top hat or crown but one rule is that a magic wand is optional, a smile on the face is essential.
We hope, you enjoy magic, and now you can learn magic with Magician ASHOKA ROY (Alias
Dinkar K. Thakkar, M.A., P.G.DB.A.) visiting his son, Magician ASHOKA (Nimesh D Thakkar, B.B.A.,
MCSE, MCDBA) who is a member of Australian Society of Magician Inc., Melbourne. This is a family
of magicians and Master of Illusions, able to make things vanish or produce amazing objects. Magician
ASHOKAROY has more than 35 years of experience; he is in Melbourne for a few months and is willing
to perform or teach Magic to all, young or olds. Professionally he has worked for about 30 years as
Marketing Officer with GSFC Ltd., in India.
He is a founder President of All India Magic and Music Association. Ex. Programme Director:
“Magician’s Association”, Rajasthan (Jaipur) and General Secretary: “Gurjar Magic and charitable
society”, Ahmedabad.
ASHOKA ROY (93528848) and Nimesh (0433 217 559)
About TAAI
Telugu Association of Australia Inc (TAAI) was founded in 1992 by Telugu speaking people of Melbourne
and Victoria at large wanting to promote the Telugu language, culture and goodwill among the Telugu
speaking community. The main objective of TAAI is to foster Telugu language, culture, traditions and
literature amongst the Melbourne Telugu community as well as other interested people in Melbourne and
Victoria. Having an active supporter base of over 600, TAAI has become a central point of contact for many
people with Telugu origin in Melbourne.
At the last Annual General Meeting of TAAI held on Sunday 26th April 2009, a new Management
Committee was elected unanimously and the details of the committee members are listed below. The
new President Mr Gopal Tangirala thanked the previous committee led by Mr Paripurna Somavarapu
for everything his committee has done over the past year. Mr Tangirala also stated that during his term,
the Management Committee would work to maximise the TAAI member’s involvement in organising
the activities for the coming year. Mr Tangirala also requested all members to extend their support and
get behind the committee so that the new committee could successfully deliver what the members are
interested.
MEMBER DETAILS
Gopal Tangirala – President
Mr Gopal Tangirala was one of the Founder members of Telugu Association of Australia Inc and a
founding secretary of the Association in 1992. Gopal Tangirala has also served as President during 2001-02
in the Association’s tenth anniversary. Mr Tangirala believes strongly in bringing the organisation closer to
its member base and TAAI to champion members and their interests.
Mrs Vijaya Tangirala – Vice-President
Mrs Vijaya Tangirala is involved in
various community, social and charity
organisations over the last 20 years and
keenly interested in making a difference
in everything that she gets involved. One
of her passions over the last five years is to
coordinate a multitude of activities that of
special interest to Telugu ladies under the
banner of Telugu Ladies Club (TLC).
Mrs Krishna Betanabhatla – Secretary
Mrs Krishna Betanabhatla is involved with TAAI over the last 10+ years mainly organising various activities
for TAAI functions and helping TAAI committees over the period as needed. Krishna is a community minded
person and willing to help out any one in the community to the best of her ability. She is also involved in
Telugu ladies club activities since its inception.
Srinivasa Rao Gangula – Treasurer
Mr Srinivasa Rao Gangula is a member of the Telugu community for about 15 years and keenly interested
in community activities. He has been helping the TAAI committees over the past several years in various
activities.
Lakshmi Peri – Member
Mrs Lakshmi Peri moved from Zambia to Melbourne a couple of years back and somewhat new in the
Telugu community. Mrs Peri is keen to participate in TAAI activities in her new capacity and believes she can
make a difference in encouraging recently arrived families to participate in TAAI activities and connect with
the Telugu community in Melbourne at large.
Mallikeswara Rao Konchada – Member
Mr Mallikeswara Rao Konchada has been a member of Melbourne Telugu community close to ten years.
Mr Konchada is well known in the Telugu community of Melbourne for his Poetic and literary talents. He,
with the help of his wife Pratyusha and son Hari publishes the bi-monthly Telugu magazine ‘Sravanti’ for
TAAI.
Members of Telugu community and any others who may be interested can visit TAAI website at www.
TAAI.org.au or contact the President by sending a mail to President@TAAI.org.au

FEDERATION OF INDIAN ASSOCIATIONS

OF VICTORIA
Indian Community Centre
Fundraising Project (ICCFP) Launch
Venue: Manningham Function Centre,
699 Doncaster Road, Doncaster, VIC - 3108
Melway Ref: 47 E1
Single
Entry
$ 75 Date:
Dress Code: Formal
Saturday 15th August 2009 Time: 7pm Onwards

voice of fiav
24 June 2009

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