Indian

Indian February 12, 2010

Log on to www.iwk.co.nz Volume 1, No. 23
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Indian
Community rallies around Hiren’s grieving family
Dev Nadkarni
“No family must have to endure what we have
gone through in the past ten days,” a stoic Falguni
Mohini told Indian Weekender, just a week after
the tragedy that struck her loving, close-knit
family. “Nothing will bring Hiren back but the
killer must be brought to justice so that no other
life is lost. I appeal to the community for all help
in identifying and apprehending those respon-
sible.”
Auckland’s Indian community, which has
rallied around the family ever since news of the
gruesome tragedy broke, is disappointed and
angry at the senseless killing of a loving husband,
doting father, devoted son and great friend and
colleague to many.
Hiren Mohini died of injuries inflicted on
him by his killer passenger in the early hours of
February 1. He was tearfully farewelled on last
Thursday (February 4) at West Auckland’s Wai-
kumete cemetery and crematorium by family
members who were joined by hundreds of col-
leagues, friends and neighbours.
Dozens of taxis joined the funeral cortege
from the Mohinis’ Mount Roskill residence en
route to Waikumete. Among family who paid
their respects were Falguni, daughters Yashvi, 5
and Hetvi, 2, his mother Vasantiben and relatives
who had just arrived from India besides those
already living in New Zealand.
“I would estimate 300-400 taxis and more
than 1200 people at the funeral. The chapel was
so full that I could not get in, so I was in the other
chapel watching the proceedings on close circuit
TV,” said one time colleague Vinay Grover.
Close relative Ashish Mohini told Indian
Weekender that the response from neighbours,
colleagues, friends and the community at large
was overwhelming and reassuring at the time of
2 Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz
such sudden shock and grief.
Thirty-nine-year-old Hiren had picked up a
fare in downtown Auckland and the incident that
claimed his life took place on View Road, off Do-
minion Road in the Mount Eden area abut 1.20
am on February 1.
His taxi crashed into a wall and a tree after
his passenger savagely stabbed him in the neck
and chest. The crash woke nearby residents who
rushed to the scene to extricate Hiren from the
wreck of his taxi.
His injuries were so severe that though pro-
fessional medical help arrived within six or seven
minutes of the crash, paramedics were not able to
revive him while he was being transferred into
the ambulance bound for the hospital: he suc-
cumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Police described the attack as vicious and one
that would even shock criminals.
Some of his colleagues rushed to the scene of
the accident immediately on hearing of it on the
company’s communication system as Mr Mohini
had apparently pressed his taxi’s panic button in
his final moments and also tried calling a friend
on his mobile phone.
A man was reportedly seen running away
from the scene immediately after the incident
and some time later a bloodied bag was found
near the scene of the incident. Police also re-
leased stills from video footage of a man carrying
a similar bag that was caught on city cameras on
the night of Mr Mohini’s murder. Over 40 police
officers have been drafted into the investigations
and pictures of a cap found in the bag have also
been released to the media.
As the Mohinis awaited the arrival of family
members from India, friends, neighbours and
taxi company colleagues poured into the Davis
New Zealand
Funeral Home on Dominion Road throughout and the passengers as a deterrent as is seen in
Tuesday and Wednesday by the hundreds to pay many of the world’s big cities, he said.
respects to the departed soul. Authorities had repeatedly stonewalled pre-
Wife Falguni and mother Vasantiben visited vious appeals for such measures and wanted to
the site of the crash, which over the next couple of raise the issue once again the drivers said. A
days had already been turned into a shrine with meeting with Transport Minister Steven Joyce is
dozens of floral tributes. They spent a few quite in the offing.
moments at the spot where Mr Mohini’s life had
ebbed away.
National Party MP Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi
who visited the driver’s family told Indian Week-
ender he had apprised his parliamentary col-
leagues and ministers about the developments
and that Transport Minister Steven Joyce would
soon call a meeting with all concerned to address
the security problems faced by taxi drivers.
Minister of Ethnic Affairs Pansy Wong and
Labour MP for Mount Roskill Phil Goff also paid
condolence visits to the bereaved family, as did
leaders from the Global Organisation of Persons
of Indian Origin (GOPIO). They have assured
that the safety concerns of the taxi drivers would The Yashvi Mohini and Hetvi Mohini
be addressed at the earliest opportunity. Trust Account has been set up by
Mr Mohini had moved to New Zealand from family and friends. Auckland Co-Op
Mumbai in 2003, his close friend and schoolmate Taxis is also collecting donations
from Goregaon, Mumbai, Sachin Jadhav, told
on its website.
Indian Weekender. He said he was driving his
taxi for the past three to four years. The details:
Another colleague, Shane, said Mr Mohini The Yashvi and Hetvi Mohini Trust
was one of the quietest blokes he knew and that Account: Direct credit donations to
he was always courteous and respectful. “If 06-0284-0165500-00
money is what the attacker wanted, he could have or via cooptaxi.co.nz
simply asked – and Hiren would have handed it to Cash donations can be made at any
him with no hesitation,” he said. National Bank.
Taxi driver Chittaranjan said this incident The Hiren Mohini Appeal Fund, set up
once again highlighted how risky driving taxis by the NZ taxi federation: Direct credit
in Auckland could be. It strengthens the case for donations to 03-0175-0228509-00.
some sort of physical barrier between the driver
Indian
New Zealand

Murder inquiry appeals Police go all out

to Asian communities In a first for Auckland City Police in-
vestigations, an inner-city billboard
appealing for information about taxi
driver Hiren Mohini’s killer is being
of our voluntary Asian Safety Patrol
Group handing out fliers and talking
to some of the thousands of people
Police investigating the January 31 murder of celebrating Chinese New Year at the
taxi driver Hiren Mohini are appealing to Asian installed in Fort St late tonight or ASB Showgrounds on Saturday.
communities for information about a man whose early tomorrow morning.
image is on CCTV footage [see pic], a distinc-
“We’re hopeful that all these ap-
tive bag with the “Dicon Aibi” logo on it [see pic] peals and the intensive work my
The billboard [see attached], which staff are doing on inquiries and
and, for the first time, a distinctive knitted dark
cap with a large white logo outlined with three measures 6m x 3m, appeals to following up on information already
circles [see pic]. passersby for information about received from the likes of the ESR,
Detective Senior Sergeant Hywel Jones says the identity of a man Police want to
the cap has been undergoing forensic examina-
we’ll get that key piece of informa-
speak with, the owner or user of a tion that will lead us to an arrest,
tion because it was found in Mt Eden with the
blue carry bag and the wearer of a shor tly.”
blood-stained tubular-shaped blue bag on private
property, a day after the murder. distinctive knitted black cap.
“The bag and the cap are of great interest In another break from traditional
to our investigation and we want to know who “We’re trying a range of methods to
owned, used or wore them,” Mr Jones said.
publicity methods, Police have been
appeal to the public for information. given a set of DVDs which make ap-
“We’re appealing more strongly to the Asian
The billboard space was vacant and peals to viewers for information and
communities in and around the Auckland CBD
this week as, unfortunately, we’ve become aware its location ties in nicely with the fact which will be distributed to inner city
that a lot of those we canvassed overnight on we’re appealing to Asian communi- retail stores and supermarkets for
Saturday February the 6th and Sunday the 7th, ties in the inner city to help us solve
weren’t aware of Hiren Mohini’s murder and our
broadcast on their in-house adver-
this mystery,” officer in charge of the tising screens.
subsequent homicide investigation,” Mr Jones
homicide investigation, Detective
said.
“Given that nearly 30 percent of the central Senior Sergeant Hywel Jones said. Anyone with information about who
Auckland’s population is Asian, it’s vital that killed Hiren Mohini should call 0800
“Mr Mohini’s murder investigation 444 014. Anonymous information
is the feature story on Friday night’s can go to Crimestoppers on 0800
screening of Police 10/7 at 7.30 on 555 111.
TV2. A dedicated Operation Edgewater
e-mail address has also been added
“We’ll also have staff and members - edgewater@police.gov t.nz

they know how important it is for us to get any in-

formation from them that they might have about
Mr Mohini’s killer, who is still on the loose.”
Hiren Mohini was killed after a frenzied knife
attack in his taxi as he travelled from Federal St
in the city at about 1.12am on Sunday January 31,
to View Rd in Mt Eden where he was found by
residents after his car crashed at about 1.23am.

Anyone who thinks they know who the man

in the photo is, who knows who owned or used
the royal blue Dicon Aibi bag or the distinctive
knitted cap, should call Operation Edgewater on
0800 444 014.

Anonymous callers can contact

Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

In wake of the recent Killing of Hiren

Mohini, a meeting is being organised by
NZICA to take stock of the current law and
order situation. Please attend along with
other concerned colleagues.
l Date: 14th Feb l Time: 3 p.m. l Venue: Mahatma Gandhi Centre

Hosts: Auckland Indian Association

General Secretary, New Zealand Central Indian Association

Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz 3

Indian
New Zealand
Issue of What three things need to be done to make Community, colleagues,
working conditions safer for taxi drivers?
friends speak out …
the day

1. Avoid cash transactions – payment
should be made with eftpos and credit
cards.
2. In-car surveillance cameras with GPS
tracking loggers which are inexpensive and
easily available in the market.
3. Drivers can be equipped with radios to
communicate with in an emergency, like
the open “mike” switch.
Nilima Kalambi –
clinical administrator
in community health
and a student of health
management in the
University of Auckland.
1. Police need to be given more power to
deal with crime and their time should not
be wasted with minor issues
2. Anyone carrying knives or any other
harmful weapons should be punished.
3. Taxi companies have to see if any
passenger carrying harmful weapons can
be detected on entry and taxi drivers be
more vigilant.   of those who may not be regular. Report
– Chairman of Board of
Trustees of The Auckland
Indian Association and
accountant serving the
community for over forty
years.
1. Make the security screen around driver’s
seat mandatory in each taxi like they do in
Australia.
2. Adopt zero tolerance approach and
hand down tougher punishments for each
crime committed.
3. Utilise the police force to fight the crime
rather than writing traffic tickets.
- Indian born New
Zealander and business
owner who is very
passionate about
New Zealand
1. I strongly believe that education around
crime prevention for taxi drivers become a
priority, an assessment method that may
raise that first impression of doubt.
2. Installing monitored cameras should
be compulsory. Many dairy owners install
camera. Recommend they spend some
time going over the day’s customers.
3. Know your regular customers. Keep vigil
any theft small or large. Remember, Police
want to work closely with everyone.
- Indian born New
Zealander and business
owner who is very
passionate about New
Zealand
This death should be an eye opener to the so called policy makers, politicians, bureaucrats, and the concerned
people to take the necessary steps to protect the taxi drivers and improve the safety measures by subsidizing
the security camera’s and installation of the mesh around the driver seat.
To give the taxi drivers additional safety when working during the late night and early morning hours, it
should be made mandatory for every taxi to have a driver protection screen. As of now egardless of the govern-
ment decision Auckland coop taxi company taking steps to ensure the safety of the fleet drivers. But govern-
ment’s 50 per cent subsidy on the cost of the screen, camera will be more helpful and will speed up the process.
Australian Government responded properly and giving 50 per cent subsidy to the taxi drivers since 2008.
Our focus at this time is on ensuring that Mr Mohini’s family has all the support it needs. This is a terrible
tragedy for the Mohini family, and we want to ensure that the burden they bear can be reduced as much as
possible into the future.
- Sitaram Salvaji, colleague
Hiren and myself were working together for Greenacres [before his taxi business]. Both of us had the lawn
moving business and we were in touch with each other quite often. I was there till the end of the funeral until
his family went home. I’ve run out of words for the respect and unity that people have shown. All the while I
was just thinking about Hiren’s kids, Falguni and his mom. After everyone finished paying their tributes to this
father, husband, brother and son, we got a chance to get his last glimpse, so all of us queued up to see him. That
is when I saw his mom and Falguni. I could see the pain in their eyes, which was something that could never be
healed. I could feel as if they wanted to burst out in tears but were controlling it so well. I felt like hugging his
mom and telling her that her younger son is still here but did not have the guts to do that. But I do promise that
I shall visit them in the next week and take up my responsibilities though I would not make it public.
- Vinay Grover, friend and former co-worker
Hiren was my regular customer since I started my business on caravan (Soul Curry) next to Yogiji’s. Being a
very friendly and talkative person, wherever we met, we used to talk for a while. Always compassionate, he
used to enquire about my newly started restaurant (Curry Mantra), give some suggestions, talk about Mumbai
food. He would enjoy food with his family particularly wada-pav and misal. He used to say ‘because of your
food we don’t miss India now’. I remember after visiting India last year, he was missing ‘veg makhani’ and
asked my chef to make one for him. He had created that niche of goodwill that we never ever felt hesitant about
his small demand and my chef made it happily just for him. When news about his sad demise flashed, it was
a mixed feeling of anger, disbelief and sorrow. Yes me, and my staff will miss Hiren, a very good person, a
gentleman.
- Makarand Karkhanis, restaurant owner and friend

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4 Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz
Indian
Kiwi Indians urged to join unique veggie garden project
A unique Manukau City Council initiative to
proactively address deepening health concerns
in a large section of the population by promoting
healthy eating is proving to be a great success,
encouraging the council to expand the project.
Over the past 18 months or so, the council’s
Manukau Parks Growing for Health – Teach-
ing Garden project has over 600 people now in-
volved in its innovative programme.
“It’s pretty simple,” says Varsha Belwalkar,
Manukau City Council Parks Ranger, who
manages one of the six sites scattered across
the city. “We provide garden plots, seeds and
mentors to teach how to plant, grow and manage
vegetable and fruit gardens and encourage
people to grow their own kitchen gardens in
their homes. And it is free.”
A staggering 74% of the local population is
considered obese with 12,000 diagnosed with
type 2 diabetes and a further 12,000 considered
undiagnosed, Ms Belwalkar says.
And eating a healthy diet of mostly organi-
cally grown vegetables can go a long way in
providing the required balance to a diet other-
wise deficient in fibre and other valuable nutri-
ents that come from veggies.
Considering the gravity of the situation to
the population’s health and welfare, Manukau
Parks committed to establishing eight teach-
ing gardens in four wards of high deprivation
over two years. The Manukau Parks Teaching
Gardens project supports the Let’s Beat Dia-
betes Gardening for Health and Sustainability
initiative.
The Manukau Parks model is one of expe-
riential learning of basic horticultural hus-
bandry techniques delivered by paid mentors.
The mentors’ activities are coordinated and
managed by Park Rangers like Ms Belwalkar
who are assigned as site managers.
Plots are allocated to an individual or a group
Indian Weekender launches Rotorua Indian Association
free business listings President dies in accident
Let customers find you through their computers
and their mobiles – free!
You can now place your basic business listings
free on New Zealand’s most accessed and most
frequently updated Kiwi Indian news and fea-
tures website, www.indianweekender.co.nz,
which can also be accessed with the short and
sweet www.iwk.co.nz. As you are probably
aware, the website is also accessible on smart
phones and our access rates through mobiles
have been growing at a tremendous pace as well.
Add your business listing to our new busi-
ness directory and get your business exposed
for free to thousands for no cost whatsoever. It’s
the best way to have your clients and potential
clients find you. And it’s free. We don’t believe
that basic listings in any directory, especially
those serving communities, should be paid for.
To get started all you have to do is visit
the Indian weekender website (www.in-
dianweekender.co.nz) and click on the
Business directory link at the top or use
the link (http://www.indianweekender.
co.nz/Plugins/Biz/) to get there directly.
Once on that page click on the button that says
‘Click here to submit your business details’. You
will find a form pop up where you need to enter
all your details. You will need to scroll down
below to finish it and submit it. Once submitted,
we will give it a once-over and post it online.
Value added features. A basic business
listing to the website is free but you can take
Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz
The garden at Mangere and (inset) Varsha Belwalkar
to grow vegetables for a season, and participants
are taught a range of skills from seed germina-
tion through to harvesting. The project is based
on two 20-week courses aligned to the winter/
summer seasons. The 20-week course prepares
participants to grow their own fruit and vegeta-
bles at home.
“Any interested group, family or individual
over 18 can apply,” says Ms Belwalkar. So far
some 100 25m x 2m plots have been allocated
with 353 enrolled in the popular summer pro-
gramme.
A new batch of people is allocated to the
individual plots for each season. And a new
season will start in March. “We have a manager
for every site and I manage the Mangere site,”
Ms Belwalkar says. “I would like to invite the
advantage of our low cost featured listing to
promote your business on the website home
page, business directory page and also our
fast growing weekly newsletter now re-
ceived by thousands of Kiwi Indians besides
readers in Fiji, Australia and India. With the
newsletter, you can very cost effectively popu-
larize your weekly and festival specials at a
nominal charge.
If you want to further enhance your listing
you can add a photo gallery of your products/
services, add attachments of your menu etc for
visitors to download and even a video to your
listing. Contact us to find out how you can
enhance and promote your business through
Indian Weekender’s new Business Directory.
Email your interest or query to info@indian-
weekender.co.nz
- Indian Weekender news desk
Indian community to avail of this opportunity
as it not only helps you learn the skills to grow
fruit and veggies but also promotes outdoor ex-
ercise and bonding with family members. More-
over you can take the seeds home and grow your
own veggies and fruit and look after them after
learning the techniques here.”
Several South Asian families have availed of
previous opportunities. “We have had Indians
from Fiji, India, people from Bangladesh, South
East Asia and of course Pacific and Maori
people. It has really been a great experience to
be involved in this project,” she adds.
Nearly two-dozen varieties of vegetables
and fruits are grown at the gardens besides a
colourful variety of flowers. While people take
the produce home for personal use, many have
nally from Navsari in Gujarat but was raised in Mumbai where his father was employed.
Mr Morarji migrated to New Zealand and later settled here with his family and siblings.
He leaves behind his wife and two sons. Mr Morarji’s elderly parents live in Christ-
church, Mr Chhagan said.
The wider Indian community and the New Zealand Indian Central Association have
condoled the passing of Mr Morarji.
“Kishorebhai had been a proactive social activist, with an outstanding track record of
managing community organizations and maximising their effectiveness. The community
shares the grief with the family, the NZICA said in a statement.”
New Zealand
been donating excess produce to a range of food
banks around the city. “This has benefited even
the community at large,” says Ms Belwalkar.
What about security concerns? That has
been taken care of by the appointment of guard-
ians at some of the sites. Also, the presence of
student activity at most times during the day has
resulted in almost no vandalism. Some neigh-
bours as in the case of the Middlemore site in
particular have virtually “adopted” the project.
Beginning with just four plots, the council
has added two more recently taking the number
up to six. These are located in East Tamaki,
Mangere Centre Park, Old School Reserve
in Mangere, Middlemore Reserve, Stadium
Reserve in Papatoetoe, and Walter Massey Park
in Mangere East.
According to Ms Belwalkar, the pro-
gramme’s business plan targets 2000 house-
holds to have established a home garden over
4 years. This would mean potentially reaching
7000 people if the uptake is 100%. Costs for
achieving this by all agencies would probably
be in region of $2 million.
Future plans for the project include a pos-
sible certificate from a recognised educational
institution for the participants in the programme
after conmpletion of the teaching gardens
course.
There could also be a possibility of forming
a garden and food process club where par-
ticipants and those interested could meet with
experts and exchange notes, learn advanced
techniques and share experiences as also swap
seeds and plants.
For more information about joining the
project as a learner or a teacher, please contact
Parks Booking Officer on 09 2637100 ext 8750
or email colin.foster@manukau.govt.nz
Bay of Plenty (Rotorua) Indian Asso-
ciation Kishorbhai Morarji died in a car
accident on the evening of Saturday,
January 30.
Mr Morarji had driven to Morrins-
ville in Waikato for a daylong meeting
of the New Zealand Indian Central As-
sociation (NZICA). He was driving back
to Rotorua when he lost his life in the
car accident at about 8-30pm.
Such meetings are usually attended
by two people from the Association but
yesterday Mr Morarji went alone, an as-
sociate said.
Past President Hasmukhbhai
Chhagan said Mr Morarji had taken on
the role of the President only in 2009. He
ran an electronics business in Hillcrest,
Mr Chhagan said.
Mr Morarji, who was only 52, regu-
larly sent out a newsletter to the com-
munity detailing activities of the As-
sociation and many of these have been
covered in the Indian Weekender maga-
zine and website.
The departed businessman was origi-
- Indian Weekender news desk
5
Indian
Decks finally cleared for NZ-India FTA negotiations Opportunities to
Trade Minister Tim Groser and Indian Commerce
Minister, Sri Anand Sharma have announced the
start of negotiations towards a free trade agreement
between New Zealand and India.
This announcement follows on from the ‘subject
to formal approval’ announcement made last year by
Trade Minister Tim Groser and his then Indian coun-
terpart Minister Kamal Nath. Approval was delayed
by Indian general elections mid last year following
which it took some time for the Indian Trade and
Economic Relations Committee to be reconstituted.
This final step in the approval process clears the way
for talks to begin within the next few months.
Mr Groser, attending a meeting of WTO Trade
Ministers in Davos, Switzerland alongside Mr
Sharma, welcomed the Indian Government’s con-
firmation that it will open negotiations with New
Zealand.
“A free trade agreement with India offers great
promise for New Zealand businesses. India is already
one of our fastest growing markets, with New
Zealand exports having tripled over the last decade.
“Our negotiators will target the currently high
barriers facing New Zealand exporters to India so
that trade can further flourish,” Mr Groser said.
Mr Groser also emphasised the strategic impor-
tance to New Zealand of the growing Indian economy
– forecast to grow at almost 8 percent in 2010.
“India has a population of over one billion people.
By 2025, India will almost certainly be the third
largest economy in the world.”
The New Zealand Cabinet approved the start
of negotiations in March last year and the relevant
Indian Cabinet Committee last week approved the
proposal.
“I expect negotiations to start soon and am con-
fident we can deliver a high quality agreement with
significant benefits to New Zealand exporters,” Mr
Groser said.
Negotiations will commence with a first round
of exploratory talks, likely to be held in Wellington
in April. These initial discussions will focus on our
6 Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz
:NZ Trade Minister Tim Groser and former Indian Commerce Minister Kamal Nath during can continue to provide support to thousands
a meeting last year.
broad objectives in these negotiations and the process
for taking them forward as we look to negotiate a
high quality Comprehensive Economic Cooperation
Agreement.
Meanwhile, the Indian High Commissioner in his
recent public meetings in Auckland and Wellington
has expressed the desire to speed up efforts to uplift
trade in the existing areas and explore potential in
many new areas of trade and commerce.
High Commission of India endeavours to fa-
cilitate promotion of trade between India and New
Zealand and assist the entrepreneurs by providing
them with the required information and establishing
their contact with the desired manufacturers, import-
ers and exporters across the two countries.
“The entrepreneurs managing medium and large
businesses are welcome to come up with proposals in
the areas of import from India, investment and joint
venture, or any trade activity which they would like
to take up with Indian companies,” a statement from
the High Commission in Wellington said.
High Commission would provide the desired
assistance to the business community in exploring
new avenues of trade and commerce, “giving a much
needed boost to trade activity between the two coun-
tries, on our way to forging an India – New Zealand
strategic trade partnership,” the statement further
said.
Indian Weekender will closely follow these de-
velopments and report and comment on them in the
paper and on the website regularly. Background in-
formation and access to the online submission form
(submissions will be open until 15 March) are avail-
able on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
web pages at:
www.mfat.govt.nz/Trade-and-Economic-Rela-
tions/Trade-Agreements/India/index.php
- Indian Weekender news desk
New Zealand
train as Citizens
Advice Bureau
volunteers
If you enjoy working with people, want to give
something back to your local community and
have a free half day a week, why not apply to
train as a volunteer at your local Citizens Advice
Bureau?
Volunteering is a great way to meet new
people, develop new skills, and learn more about
the community you live in.
The next training course begins on Tuesday,
16 February, 2010.
Manukau’s Citizens Advice Bureau is
seeking applicants to train as volunteers so they
of residents who rely on this free service every
year.
Last year the bureaux helped with over 65,000
enquiries ranging from practical neighbourhood
information to advice about New Zealand laws,
and assisting residents to apply for rates rebates.
Full training is given and all volunteers
receive ongoing support.
The next training course begins in February,
so contact one of the bureau below to find out
more and register your interest:
Mangere CAB 275 6885
Manurewa CAB 266 5729
Otara CAB 274 6577
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Pakuranga/Eastern
Bays Manukau 576 8331
Indian
India
PM Manmohan Singh backs Mumbai dabbawallas in
IPCC on climate work Harvard curriculum
New Delhi: A day after India’s outspoken en- Mumbai: The dabbawala of Mumbai is an integral part of the lives of
vironment minister Jairam Ramesh slammed Mumbai’s citizens. The dabbawallas comprising a band of about 5000
the UN climate change body IPCC for issuing hardworking men mainly from the rural parts of the state of Maharash-
warnings without scientific basis, Prime Minis- tra, deliver approximately 200,000 lunch boxes daily to office goers in
ter Manmohan Singh said the country has full the metropolis.
confidence in the IPCC process. The most interesting part is that they never use any modern tech-
Addressing a summit on sustainable devel- nology, and yet they deliver without fail irrespective of weather, riots,
opment Manmohan Singh said: “Let me reas- floods or transport failure. Their system has an error coefficient of one
sert that India has full confidence in the IPCC in 16,000 boxes, making it more than the six sigma quality standard that
process and its leadership and will support it in most businesses strive to achieve.
every way.” Though a subject of many case studies in business schools in Indian and abroad, they will now be
He said though some works of IPCC (Inter- a part of the curriculum in one of world’s best B-schools, the Harvard Business School.
governmental Panel of Climate Change) were Professors from Harvard spent time with the dabbawallas, interacted with the employees and had
put to question, the core projections of the body a hands-on experience on how the system works.
remains unchallenged. Manish Tripathi a spokesman for the dabbawallas said, “The school had prepared a comprehensive
“… This debate does not challenge the core report and submitted it to us for review. The final draft is now ready. We’ll give the confirmation next
projections of the IPCC upon the impact of week and the case study will be released in March in a big way.”
greenhouse gas accumulations on temperature, The case study will also be sold to other business schools across the globe for academic purposes.
rainfall and sea level rise,” he said.
Union Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh - Shobha Rao, India correspondent
earlier said climate science and climate evange-
lism are not same and hence India would have

Rahul Gandhi derails Sena protest

its own body to assess the impact of climate
change on Himalayan glaciers after the goof-up
by IPCC.
Taking a dig at the wrong projections by
the IPCC headed by India’s R K Pachauri on
the Himalayan glaciers, Ramesh said the IPCC
undoubtedly created a scare and panic by not
basing its warnings on science.
“There is a difference between climate
science and climate evangelism,” he said,
dubbing the IPCC predictions of Himalayan
glacier meltdown by 2035 as misleading.
“Health of glaciers are cause for concern.
They are melting, retreating, threatening our
water security and we have to be cautious. But
we are now setting up a National Institute of
Himalayan Glaciology in Dehra Dun for moni-
toring, modelling and research,” he told Times
Now.
“A country like India cannot depend on only
IPCC,” he said adding that the IPCC took pub-
lished literature as basis of warnings and so
made goof-ups on predictions about Himalayan
glacier, Amazon and snow peaks.
He said he nevertheless had respect for IPCC,
a body of 2000 scientists, but India is setting up
something like Indian Network on Comprehen-
sive Climate Change Assessment (INCCA).
R K Pachauri, who heads IPCC, is under fire
from British media, Indian government and en-
vironmentalists for wrong predictions on the Hi-
malayan glacier meltdown and after it was found
that many of the other IPCC warnings were
based on magazine articles.
British media alleged that Pachauri also
benefits financially from the various positions
he holds in various bodies. Pachauri has so far
has refused take responsibility for the research
reports that have led to the embarrassing disclo-
sures and has rejected calls for him to resign.
Mumbai: In a bid to send out a strong signal to the parochial parties like the Shiv Sena and the Ma-
harashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), Rahul Gandhi arrived in Mumbai and travelled by the local train
to reach a couple of venues for political functions.
His journey from Vile Parle to Ghatkopar via Dadar, was spent in talking to the common man
on the platforms, in the train as well as a local bank where he had stopped. In this one political mas-
terstroke he had not only scuttled the Sena’s black flag demonstration but also won many a Mumbai
citizen’s hearts.
Local Congress leaders including the chief minister were totally unaware of Rahul’s plan but are
upbeat after the incident. Said the chief minister “It’s good that the Sena has taken a beating. The
enthusiastic response that he got showed the Sena-MNS brand of politics has no place in society.”
The Sena leadership meanwhile branded Rahul’s train journey as a “drama typical of north
Indians”.
Pt Ravi Shankar launches music label
Mumbai: Legendary sitarist Pandit Ravi Shankar
has become the latest musician to float an inde-
pendent music label, called East Meets West
Music (EMWMusic).
In the last couple of years, many prominent
Indians musicians have commenced venturing

Ganga, Gai and Mandir for Varun Gandhi

into the music business on their own, mostly
due to growing dissatisfaction with the way big
music labels in the country function.
In the recent months, musicians like A
New Delhi: While the whole country is battling with issues of price rise, terrorism and shortage of R Rahman (KM Music), Sivamani (KVKM
power and water the other Gandhi, Varun seems to think otherwise. While addressing a rally in Uttar Records), Shubha Mudgal (Underscore Records),
Pradesh he said his party ie. the Bharatiya Janata Party should focus on the Ganga, safety of cows Vishal-Shekhar (VS Music) and Anup Jalota
and care of temples. (Shabd and Sur) have ventured into the music
“Price rise is an issue alright, but we should not forget what our party was formed for. We should label territory.
not compromise on our self-respect. If we don’t fight for our self-respect, the Ganga (river), Gau mata The name of the New York headquartered
(cows), our temples and the youth, then everything else will fall apart,” he added. label, East Meets West, points to the Shankar
He said he has constructed around 200 temples in his parliamentary constituency of Pilibhit with philosophy of exploration, experimentation and
his own money. cross-pollination. The vast archive features per-
Gandhi also spoke about issues of land acquisition and the plight of farmers. formances and appearances by an extraordinarily
eclectic cast of musicians from across the globe.
An official statement says, “With the creation
of EMWMusic, Ravi Shankar bridges any divide

Tamil Nadu to have Valentine

between his recorded music and his audience.”
Interestingly, through this music label, listen-
ers will be able to access rare archives featuring

Sri Krishna temple

thousands of hours of live performance audio,
film footage, interviews, and studio masters.
Through the label, the legendary sitar player
hopes to provide a glimpse into what has most
inspired and shaped him in his 70-plus years on
Chennai: Come Valentine’s Day and one thinks of cards, gifts and candle light dinners, but couples stage.
in Tamil Nadu will soon have a Valentine Krishna Temple to visit on this day. The idea of marrying This new label is also aimed at providing plat-
the Christian saint of love St.Valentine and the Hindu god of Romance Sri Krishna is the brain child form for new artists, projects, and collaborations.
of R.Jagannath, a former food and beverages manager with the hotel industry. Jaganaath says St Val- “There is something beautiful about the
entine and Krishna make the perfect mix. stage. There is a performer and there is an audi-
“In Hindu mythology, Krishna is the only god who is synonymous with love. During various ence. Nothing is in the way. The sound remains
phases in his life, he was loved by mothers, girls, the Yadavas and virtually by every character in the pure and unburdened by things like marketing
Mahabharata even though he sided with the Pandavas,” he said. and distribution. My hope is for this label to be
The temple being built at Sholingur, about 140 km from Chennai will be completed by April 2010. more like a stage and less like the music business
The temple will have a statue of Krishna and Radha with a cow and a calf beside the. The cow as I have experienced it,” Shankar says.
would be shown licking Krishna’s feet to reciprocate his love for animals. The label’s debut release, Nine Decades:
Another unique feature of this temple would be that devotees will be allowed to touch the deity, for Volume One, is scheduled for Pt. Ravi Shankar’s
according to Jagannath “what is love without touching?” 90th birthday on April 7, 2010. The Nine Decades
series will feature rare live performances hand-
picked by Ravi. The series will focus, decade by
decade, on performances that are particularly
meaningful to the artist himself. In the fall of
2010, EMWMusic will release the George Harri-
son produced documentary on Pt. Ravi Shankar,
called Raga. The soundtrack to the film will also
be available.
The label has also launched its new website,
EastMeetsWestMusic.com that features release
updates and performance information about
Pt. Ravi Shankar and Anoushka Shankar. The
website recently announced their plans to issue
the movie “Raga,” a 1971 documentary about
Ravi Shankar that features George Harrison, on
both DVD and CD in October. The soundtrack
was originally issued on Apple Records.
Pt Ravi Shankar and daughter Anoushka are
scheduled to play in Wellington next month.
– Radioandmusic.com
Chirag Sutar

Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz 7

Indian
Japan to help upgrade Alang shipyard
Gandhinagar: The Gujarat government and Japan have joined to upgrade the existing Alang shipyard
in Bhavnagar. The two countries have signed a memorandum of understanding which focuses on
technology transfer and financial assistance from Japan to upgrade the yard at Alang to international
standards.
Alang located on the western coast of Gulf of Cambay, in the western part of India, is the largest
ship-recycling yard in the world. Ever since its inception in 1982, Alang has emerged as one of the
choicest ship-scrapping destinations for the ship owners around the world. Hundreds of ships from all
over the world find their final resting place in Alang every year.
The MoU includes construction and operation of a common hazardous waste removal pre-treat-
ment facility, modernisation of recyclable goods market and development of human resources. The
government plans to make Alang the largest International Maritime Organisation (IMO) complied
ship recycling yard.
Plans to convince corporate
India to shun neckties
Mumbai: Taking a cue from the government of Bangladesh that has ordered male government em-
ployees to stop wearing suits, jackets and ties to save power in September last year, a group in Mumbai
wants Indian corporations to follow suit.
Wearing a tie could be a hindrance in a hot climate, say the campaign initiators.
This would lessen the burden on office air conditioners during the summer months when many
times, cities also suffer from long power outages. Air conditioning equipment is said to consume
about a third of the power used by whole cities, reports say.
The campaigners are trying to organise a “No Tie Day” on 3 May to increase awareness and say
the reaction has been one of support especially those who are bound by a corporate dress code.
Over the years, many organisations in India have rationalised their employees’ uniform designs
– most of which were a British legacy. For instance bus conductors and drivers had to wear a manda-
tory peaked cap and shoes while at work until about the 1980s when it was abandoned after protests
from unions.
The “no-tie” campaigners have tapped an unlikely quarter of support from environmentalists who
are convinced that ties and jackets necessitate air conditioning to be turned up, consuming more
power, which is a bad look for corporate environmental responsibility.
As well as ordering employees not to wear ties and jackets, the Bangladesh government also
ordered officials and ministers not to turn their air-conditioners below 24 degrees Celcius.
8 Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz
India
India sings again with launch of ‘Phir Mile Sur’
New Delhi: The Iconic national song was recreated for Young India on Republic Day,
January 26
Circa Aug 15th 1988, “Mile Sure Mera Tumhara” – The iconic song was premiered on
Doordarshan and instantly became India’s beloved melody. It featured many national icons
of the time, including, Amitabh Bachchan, Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, Kamal Hassan, Balamu-
ralikrishna, Lata Mangeshkar, Prakash Padukone, just to a name a few.
“Mile Sur Mera Tumhara” showcased the diversity of India to establish its message of
unity. The song captivated and enthralled every Indian and an entire generation vividly
recalls the iconic opening lines sung by Bharat Ratna Pt. Bhimsen Joshi.
“Mile Sur Mera Tumhara” was conceptualised by the late Suresh Mullick of O & M
Advertising.
Bollywood infotainment channel Zoom conceived and produced the Phir Mile Sur
project, which is an initiative of The Times of India Group and Vodafone Essar. Arti and
Kailash Surendranath have once again recreated their magic with Phir Mile Sur. Other as-
sociates involved with this project include Kingfisher Airlines, Radio City 91.1 FM and Taj
Hotels Resorts and Palaces.
“Phir Mile Sur” was appropriately launched on the eve of Republic Day, at a grand event
at the Taj Land’s End, Mumbai. The film was released in the presence of various stars, ce-
lebrities and dignitaries.
More than 68 of India’s icons have lent their support to this initiative that has taken
almost a year to create. It took more than 60 days of on-location shoot, across 15 cities of
India, 30 days of post production, 22 of India’s biggest superstars, 18 of India’s best musi-
cians, 13 of India’s best singers and dancers, 15 of India’s most renowned sports person to
create this magnum opus. Each artist speaks of a cause and the video is shot at places that
have historical value and significance.
The song is like an alternative anthem and a rediscovery for today’s younger demo-
graphic. An important lesson in harmony and unity using popular culture, in a trying time.
Phir Mile Sur has a freshness that reflects the enthusiasm of modern India, a tune and
lyrics that every Indian today can relate to and which would further ignite the passion for
India and its diversity. The languages are many, however Phir Mile Sur speaks a common
and universal language - that of love for the motherland and its people.
Commenting on the initiative, initiator Kailash Surendranath said, “It has been an in-
credible journey creating ‘Mile Sur Mera Tumhara’ which was a mosaic of so many differ-
ent personalities from various walks of life and regions in India. Today, we feel the same
emotions gushing, after a span of two decades. So many things have changed in India -
growth, prosperity, the economic scenario, however, as citizens of this wonderfully diverse
country, our feelings for India have only grown stronger and we hope that Phir Mile Sur will
further strengthen this bond. ”
Indian
Fiji

Fiji’s Sugar Swami Imperious Fiji win NZI Sevens

Padmini Gaunder Wellington: Fiji have clinched the 2010 The Samoans first fought from behind
NZI Sevens title after winning a stunning to beat Kenya and then raced out to a
final of breathless intensity 19-14 against commanding lead against the kiwis, Mai
“One of the greatest paradoxes of the Fiji sugar helped Patel to win support from the grassroots
South Sea Island rivals Samoa. scoring two tries in the space of two
industry is that the one man who has been on the people when he stood for elections to the then
Iliesa Tanivula’s side was the out- minutes in the second half to turn the
central stage for longer than any other person, Legislative Council.
standing outfit in the tournament, ending screw.
who has done more to enhance the income of the Swamiji’s fight for the sugarcane farmers cul-
England’s title defence at the semi final Fiji then produced a clinical display
Fiji cane farmers, is not a high-powered politi- minated in the Denning Commission in 1969.
stage and then going on to clinch a first against injury-hit England to win the
cian, nor an intellectual idealist, but a steely Patel, as the leading lawyer arguing the farmers’
Wellington crown since 2006. second Cup semi 28-19. Youngsters Dan
eyed, saffron robed Hindu monk”, wrote author, case, was able to convince Lord Denning of the
In doing so, they also cut New Zea- Caprice and Mat Turner produced mature
novelist and media activist Daryl Tarte in 1977, unfairness of the profit sharing formula used by
land’s lead in the 2009/10 IRB Sevens performances for England but Ben Ryan’s
who knew Swami Rudrananda well. the CSR. Unfortunately, Patel died just before
World Series to just four points. side turned over too much ball and the
Swami Rudrananda had come to Fiji from Denning made his award. According to the
Samoa move up to third in the table, Fijians took advantage to come back from
India in 1939 to serve the Sangam, the south award, the growers were to get 70 per cent and
England are in fourth and Australia’s an early deficit to build a lead they never
Indian association, which had asked for help the miller 30 per cent of the profit. Until then it
second successive Plate victory moves relinquished.
from the Ramakrishna Mission in India. Swami used to be 70 per cent for the millers and 30 per
them up to fifth. Earlier, New Zealand beat trans-Tas-
Rudrananda, in the true Ramakrishna Mission cent for the farmers. Lord Denning, in his award,
Fiji and Samoa laid on a stunning man rivals Australia to reach the Cup
tradition, had a universal outlook and he would vindicated the fearless and steadfast stand taken
showpiece final for the packed Westpac semis.
not be narrowed down by any sectarianism. Thus by Swamiji in opposing the might of the CSR.
Stadium crowd, at the end of which the In the other half of the draw England
although he came to serve the Sangam, he made When the history-making award was an-
Fijians emerged as 19-14 winners. had to wait six minutes to register their
sure that the Sangam schools that he had helped nounced, CSR said they could not run the indus-
Jiuta Lutumailagi and Mikaele Pesa- first score against surprise package
establish were open to all sections of the com- try under those conditions. That was not the first
mino swapped converted tries in the first Canada, but went on to win 31-0 against
munity, in spite of the fact that there was a law at time they had threatened to withdraw. The colo-
10-minute half to make it 7-7 at the break. the young Cannucks.
the time that said if a school was established for nial government used to give in to their demands
Emosi Vucago raced over to edge the
one race the other races should not be admitted. and persuade them to stay. But in 1969 Fiji had
Fijians seven ahead shortly after the break - Pacificbusinessonline.com/Pacnews
Mr. Ramakrishnan, an elected government,
and Osea Kolinisau’s score put them 19-7
the Head Teacher of with a Fijian chief, Ratu
up with two and half minutes to go, but
Nadi Sangam School, Mara, as the Chief Min-
still the Samoans hit back.
was taken to court ister, who was agreeable
Pesamino grabbed a second try with a
for admitting a Fijian to a takeover of the in-
minute to play and only desperate Fijian
student! dustry and the Fiji Sugar
defence held the Samoans out in the dying
From the begin- Corporation (FSC) was
seconds.
ning, Swamiji began to born.
Earlier, Gordon Tietjens’ New Zealand
work for the uplift of The prosperity the
side came up against a superb Samoan
the Indian community farmers enjoyed after in-
display of power and trickery in the first
in Fiji, which at that dependence was mainly
Cup semi final, Uale Mai inspiring the is-
time consisted mainly due to the hard work of
landers to a convincing 24-14 win.
of cane farmers. Many Swamiji and Patel (till his
of the South Indians death) and the support
wanted Swamiji to of Ratu Mara from the
concentrate only on time Fiji became self-
their community and governing. Swamiji was
the Sangam and some satisfied with the sound
of the diehard South work being done by the
Indians saw Swamiji’s FSC. He pointed out
involvement in matters that in the CSR days Fiji
other than the affairs of produced only 140,000
the Sangam as a weak- tonnes of sugar but in
ness in him. In 1953, 1983 the production was
when finally he estab-
lished a branch of the
The sugar farmers lived in approaching
tonnes.
500,000
So not only
Ramakrishna Mission
in Fiji, it gave Swamiji
relative poverty in spite of the farmers but also the
country benefited from
more freedom to prac- their hard work because the sugar industry after
tice his universalism. independence.
Swamiji still re- the CSR enjoyed the fruits Since Swamiji was
mained in control of kept so busy with solving
the Sangam but he of their labour. Within a the problems of the sug-
concentrated his ener- arcane farmers, when
gies more and more short time after his arrival, he received invitations
on putting an end to to visit foreign centres,
the exploitation of Swamiji fell headlong into he would often send
the farmers. Sangam Swami Damodarananda
people became more the struggle for a better deal instead. In about 1978 a
and more critical of
him and finally he re- for the cane farmers. Vedanta group of Kiwi
Indians discovered
linquished control of that the Ramakrishna
the Sangam in 1976. Mission had a centre in
Sangam still flourishes Nadi and wrote to invite
because of the strong foundation laid by Swamiji. one of the swamis to visit Auckland. Swami
Fiji was under British colonial administration Rudrananda generously asked Swami Damoda-
when Swamiji arrived, “but it was the CSR (Co- rananda to go there and attend to their needs, so
lonial Sugar Refining Company) that was ruling”, he went and conducted a spiritual retreat for a
he had said. The majority of Indo-Fijians were week on the Patanjali Yoga Sutras.
sugarcane farmers who worked very hard in the This visit gave Swami Damodarananda a
fields, supplying cane to the mills. But some- chance to meet a number of Indian and other
times they did not get any money at all because devotees and friends. Thereafter he visited also
the company would say their cane had no sugar began to extend his yearly Auckland trips to Wel-
content and could only be converted into molas- lington, Christchurch and Dunedin, as well as
ses. The farmers lived in relative poverty in spite cities in Australia.
of their hard work because the CSR enjoyed the Later, other senior monks like Rev. Swami
fruits of their labour. Within a short time after his Bhuteshananda, Rev. Swami Ranganathananda
arrival, Swamiji fell headlong into the struggle and Swami Sridharananda also began to regular-
for a better deal for the cane farmers. ly visit Australia and New Zealand. As a result,
While taking up the cause of the poor farmers, a centre of Vedanta under the Ramakrishna
Swamiji had persuaded A. D. Patel, a leading Mission was inaugurated in 2008 in Auckland.
lawyer, to involve himself in the efforts to put a Swamiji resigned from the Sugar Board in
halt to the exploitation of farmers. The close as- 1984 owing to failing health, which deteriorated
sociation between Swamiji and Patel continued sharply after his 84th birthday celebration that
for three decades until Patel’s death in 1969. It was organised on a grand scale by his devotees.
was a mutually beneficial association. While The following year, on June 30, 1985, he passed
Patel’s brilliance as a lawyer helped Swamiji to away. The sugarcane farmers of Fiji had lost their
get a better deal for the sugarcane farmers, it selfless and dedicated leader.

Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz 9

Indian
Fiji
Country loses euro32 9 Asians arrested by police to be deported

million in sugar money

Suva: As the March 31 deadline looms for Fiji
, the European Union (EU) has revealed that
Fiji has lost out the 32 million Euros (US$44.4
million) allocated for the reforms of the sugar
industry for 2008 and 2009.
And the future of the 28 million Euros
(US$38.9 million) allocated for 2010 is likely to
suffer the same fate if the Fijian administration
2009. As you know, the decision was extended to
March this year.
“We have to have dialogue with government
with the aim to get back to a democratically
elected government as soon as possible. The aim
of the dialogue is to see that our principles of rule
of law, democratic processes, and human rights
are respected.
Suva: Fiji police in joint operation with officers from the Fiji Immigration department arrested nine
Asians in four separate house raids conducted in Suva recently.
Assistant police spokesperson Sergeant Suliano Tevita said the nine, comprising of seven Chinese
females and two Chinese males will be deported today.
Tevita said the seven Chinese females had breached conditions of their work permits, which did
not allow for prostitution activities they were alleged to be engaged in.
Under the new Crimes Decree passed last week, Police now have the powers to raid and arrest
person(s) they suspect of engaging in prostitution related activities, illegal in Fiji.
The two Chinese men, according to police were illegal immigrants because their visas had expired
in 2004 and February 2008 respectively.
The Asians are being held at the Central Police Station in Suva.
- Pacificbusinessonline.com/ Pacnews

Fiji reduces coup penalties

does not meet the demands set out in the In a very brief comment to PACNEWS, Fiji’s
commitments made in leader Commodore Frank
Brussels between the two Bainimarama said, ‘I
parties in 2007. have not been informed
In
interview
an exclusive
with
Also on hold is of the latest intentions of
the European Union.’
Suva: A new decree has been gazetted in Fiji
which reduces the penalty for coups and treason.
Society, has told Radio Australia Pacific Beat,
the decree is an unfortunate measure.
PACNEWS, the First
Counsellor at the EU Fiji’s allocation of “If that is what the
EU is saying, then
An act of treason once attracted a life
sentence, but under the new ruling it’s been
“I mean when this regime came into power,
one of their reasons was to wipe away the coup
Pacific Delegation office it’s their prerogative, reduced to 15 years. culture, but by giving leaner sentences, it seems
in Suva, Robert De Raeve
said any release of the
between 30-40 said
Bainimarama.
Commodore Fiji has been ruled by its latest coup-installed
government since December 2006 under the
there’s more of an encouragement and we will
never get away from this coup culture,” he said.
fund would be subject to
meeting the commitments million Euros from However, the EU
remains hopeful that
leadership of Commmodore Frank Bainimarama.
Dorsami Naidu, President of the Fiji Law
“It’s very unfortunate.”
- Pacificbusinessonline.com/ Pacnews
towards the return to consultations with the
democratic rule.
Also on hold is Fiji’s
the 10th European Fijian government will
happen soon to figure out
allocation of between
30-40 million Euros Development what needs to be done to
make use of the 28 million Australian Government signs $1.6m Pacific cricket deal
from the 10th European allocated for 2010.
Development Fund (EDF)
for national country
Fund (EDF) for “Dialogue is
limited by the March
not Canberra: Australia has signed up to a $1.6
million cricket partnership program to build
“Sport is widely recognised as a vital tool in
building stronger communities, not least through
programmes.
“The idea would national country deadline but if there is
a delay in dialogue, we
stronger communities in the Pacific.
The partnership, signed between the
providing opportunities for youth leadership and
achievement,” Australian Prime Minister Kevin
now be to see if we run the risk of losing the government, Cricket Australia and the Rudd said in a statement.
can re-engage with the
government before a
programmes. 28 million, which will be
unfortunate.
International Cricket Council, is to run over four
years and will focus on communities in Papua
Mr Rudd signed the first partnership - which
was based on football - at the Pacific Islands
decision on the 28 million “We need to have New Guinea, Fiji, Vanuatu, Samoa and the forum last year.
will be taken. formal negotiations on Solomon Islands. Agreements with netball, rugby league and
Fiji was earmarked Article 96 of the Cotonou The program is part of the government’s rugby union are expected to be completed early
60 million Euros for the Partnership Agreement, Australian Sports Outreach Program, which this year.
period 2008-2010. Of that amount, 8 million to come to an agreement on a new Council works with local authorities and communities to
Euros was for 2008, 24 million in 2009 and 28 Decision in the course of this year. deliver sporting programs. - Pacificbusinessonline.com/ Pacnews
million for the current year. “The last one was in April 2007 in Brussels.
The EU subsidy was to help Fiji become There is not yet a concrete date to start. Before
globally competitive after the removal of that, we hope to see some progress on the
preferential-based quota system, which paid a ground such as the lifting the Public Emergency
higher price than the world market for its sugar Regulation (PER) and starting the national
exports.
“Now the 8 million is lost. We were quite
advance in preparing what we call a Financing
dialogue forum, said Mr De Raeve.
This week, the Fiji Government announced
a 30 day extension to the restrictive PER decree
Administration stops pension for
Agreement but that had to be signed before the
end of last year, said De Raeve.
The military coup of 2006 breached Article
but promised that it will be lifted soon, when the
Media Decree comes into place.
At the same time, it’s looking for a suitable
20 former govt members
96 of the Cotonou Agreement. candidate to chair the national dialogue forum, Suva: Fijian administration has stopped paying pensions to more then twenty former
“The 24 million for 2009 is facing the which it hopes will bring together all stakeholders ministers of past governments.
same fate because it was linked to having a to gather their views on how the People’s Charter The permanent secretary to the Prime Minister’s office Pio Tikoduadua said they’ve
democratically elected government, which has for Change can move Fiji forward. taken out their pensions.
not happened. Since we didn’t renegotiate Article “The purpose of the forum is to facilitate He said it wasn’t done as a cost cutting measure – but something that just had to be done.
96 EU Council Decision, the commitments that discussions that are expected to be wide ranging “This is not a cost-saving issue. We are not doing this because we want to save money.”
we both agreed in 2007 are the ones still legally and inclusive, the permanent secretary in the Some former Minister’s including former Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka have been
in place. Prime Minister’ office, Colonel Pio Tikoduadua stripped of their pension following the passing of a decree by the administration.
“In that decision, it says that a democratically had told a local radio station
elected government should be in place by March - Pacificbusinessonline.com/ Pacnews

For all your

legal needs
Aaron Kashyap
BA, LLB
Barrister and solicitor
Level 1, 351 Manukau Road, PO Box 26-596, DXCP 32513, Epsom, Auckland
Mobile: 0274 857 302 Phone: (09) 6238277 Fax: (09)6235177
Email: aaron@kashyaplaw.co.nz

10 Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian
15 Methodist Church ministers charged Australian High Commission to
in fresh PER crackdown introduce label-free visas in Fiji
Suva: Fiji police have arrested and charged 15 ministers of the Methodist Church with allegedly Suva: In what is a first for the Pacific, the
breaching the Public Emergency Regulations (PER). Australian High Commission’s Immigration
Assistant police spokesman Inspector Atunaisa Sokomuri said the 15 men were questioned section is pleased to announce that it will be
yesterday and released on bail by police. introducing, from 8 March 2010, label-free visas
He told FijiLive the group will appear in court in March. for the majority of visa applicants from Fiji,
“They are alleged to have been found in breach of the condition of the permit that was granted for making Fiji one of the first South Pacific nations
the church’s standing committee meeting last year,” Sokomuri said. to have access to label-free.
Three other Methodist Church ministers are expected to be questioned later. Label-free will allow fast processing of visa
Eight other Methodist figures including church president, Reverend Ame Tugaue, general secretary applications and longer visa validity.
Reverend Tuikilakila Waqairatu and former president Reverend Manasa Lasaro have appeared in The new label-free visas will bring Fiji in line
court in a separate case on the same charges. with many other countries where the Australian
Department of Immigration and Citizenship
(DIAC) has introduced other label-free visa
systems such as the electronic travel authority
Fiji
change.
Visa types covered by the new system will
include, among a number of others, those for
tourists, business short stay and permanent
migration. A list of all visa types currently
covered by the change is available at www.fiji.
embassy.gov.au. The list will be expanded in the
coming months.
Fiji citizens wishing to apply for a visa to
travel to Australia will continue to lodge their
applications at the Australian High Commission
in Suva either in person or through a courier.
Where visa applicants lodge applications
through a third party, such as a travel agent,

Migratory cultural icons

(ETA) and eVisa. applicants should ensure they receive a copy
Although most applicants will no longer have of their payment receipt as evidence that their
visa labels placed in their passports, details of the application has been lodged.
type of visa approved and the period for which If the visa application is refused, applicants
the visa is valid will be recorded in the DIAC will receive a formal decision letter from the
Suva, Fiji: Fiji has been identified as an computer systems as currently occurs. These High Commission’s Immigration Section.
important foraging ground for turtles in the computerised records are available to airline After arriving in Australia, people with label-
South Pacific. staff at airports for verification when passengers free visas can always update themselves on the
The revelation was made at a workshop check in to board a flight to Australia. terms of their visas by using the Visa Entitlement
on satellite tagging of turtles in Nadi last The Immigration Section at the High Verification Online (VEVO) system.
week. Commission in Suva is in discussions with - Pacificbusinessonline.com/ Pacnews
Secretariat of the Pacific Regional relevant stakeholders including airlines and
Environment Programme (SPREP) marine travel agents to ensure their preparedness of this
species officer Lui Bell said the finding was
based on the results of a flipper and satellite
tagging.
Government representatives
Kiribati, Tuvalu, Tonga, Vanuatu and
Fiji gathered to discuss ways to build
from

scientists to understand better the feeding,

national capacities to enable the satellite
tagging of turtles and learn more about
their behaviours. The workshop was
also supported by the National Oceanic
Atmospheric Administration and the
Marine Conservation Action Fund.
Mr Bell said green turtle nesters mounted
with satellite tags on Rose Island, American
Samoa migrated to Fiji afterwards.
“Similarly, a hawksbill nester mounted
with a satellite tag in Samoa, migrated to the
EEZs of seven Pacific island countries and
territories and ended up in the Fiji waters.
Another green nester tagged in Cook Islands
also found its way to Fiji waters,” he said.
Monitoring has revealed dramatic
declines in marine turtle populations over
the last 20 years across much of South East
Asia and the Pacific. Tagging has allowed
nesting and migratory behaviours of these
cultural icons.
WWF marine species co-ordinator
Penina Solomona said with the turtle’s
traversing nature between wide oceans,
regional co-operation ensured that
establishing the management and protection
of turtle population must go beyond the
national level to the cross-border level.
“By working with communities,
governments, scientists and other partners,
WWF aims to save these ancient mariners
for the benefit of future generations,” he
said.
“Strong partnerships are, and will
continue to be essential to achieving shared
goals,” Ms Solomona said.
- Pacificbusinessonline.com/ Pacnews
Airlines review aircraft fleet in Fiji
Suva: A study of Air Pacific and Pacific Sun’s
f leets has started.
Air Pacific chief executive officer John
Campbell, has confirmed that the f leet of
both airlines would be reviewed for possible
replacement.
It is understood that Pacific Sun wants to
replace its Twin Otter and at least one Britten
Norman Islander which were bought when the
airline took over the operations of Sun Air.
Mr Campbell did not confirm whether
the assessment included plans to buy aircraft
operating in Vanuatu.
But airline industry sources said Pacific
Sun had investigated the airworthiness of
several smaller aircraft operated by Air
Vanuatu, including Twin Otters.
The Otter and Islander aircraft are
internationally recognised as suitable for
rough airstrips similar to those serviced by
Pacific Sun, including Kadavu, Lakeba and
Vanuabalavu.
On the Air Pacific f leet assessment, Mr
Campbell said the study would determine
whether additional interim aircraft would be
leased as they awaited the delivery of Boeing
787 Dreamliners, which were due in 2012.
The airline operates two Boeing 747s
leased from Singapore Airlines on its major
trunk routes and its own Boeing 767 and 737
on shorter hauls.
One option open to the airline is to
return the Boeing 747s and lease the newer
Boeing 777 aircraft before the delivery of the
Dreamliners.
Airline sources said the leased B747s
needed a major refit.

Do you think you know who this man is?

Do you know who Do you know

owned or used the bag who owned or wore
in the picture? this cap?

Police are looking for a killer and need to know the answers to these questions. If you have information, please call:
0800 EDGEWATER (0800 444 014) or CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111

Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz 11

Indian
Melbourne clinch soccer glory More time for Short Film entries
Former Navua rep Patrick Wise slotted in a 10th
minute sizzler to give Melbourne a 1-0 victory
against Sydney Nadi in an all-Aussie final of the vet-
erans’ soccer tournament at Bill McKinley Park in
Auckland on Monday.
The win helped Melbourne collect a $3000 prize
cheque and also the SM Singh Memorial Trophy in
the New Zealand Fiji Veterans Soccer Association
tournament’s over-35s competition played under
mostly fine weather conditions. They were also
awarded gold medals, and the runners-up collected a
$1000 cheque and silver medals.
The over-40s competition for the Billy Singh Me-
morial Cup was won by Hamilton Nadroga 5-3 fol-
lowing a penalty shootout against Sydney Nadi.
Sydney Nadi’s Avinesh Prasad (Mircha), who
scored nine goals in the tournament, was awarded the
Most Valuable Player trophy.
The tournament, which attracted more than 2000
for the final, brought out some of the biggest stars of
the yesteryears, including players such as Hendry
Dyer, Arjun Pillay, Lorima Batiregega, Jope Lomu,
Afroz Ali, Esala Masi and Shailendra Lal.
Melbourne bundled out defending champions
and favourites Sydney Ba 1-0 in the quarters before
gunning down Jet Set 3-1 in the semis (shootout) on
their way to the final. Sydney Nadi downed Sydney
Combined in the other semi.
The success of the tournament left one of its
key organizers, Ayaaz Khan of the NZ Fiji Veterans
Soccer Association, beaming at the end.
“It was the biggest and the best tournament or-
ganised so far and we are pleased with the way things
have turned out,” Khan told the Indian Weekender.
Although the tournament was organized the NZ
Fiji Veterans Soccer Association, the rival NZ-Fiji
Community Calendar
Workshops at Auckland Regional Migrant Services:
Home Ownership
Saturday 13th February 2010, 9.30am – 4.00pm
Learn about how to buy your first home in New
Zealand, including mortgage, building and main-
taining your home.
Personal Tax Seminar and Redundancy Tax
Credits
Saturday 20th February 2010, 9.30am – 12.30pm
Fiji, India festivals next week
Manukau will be a hive of activity next week when
the city hosts a weekend of festivals at the TelstraClear
Pacific Events Centre. The Fiji Festival will be held on
Saturday, February 20, while the Indian Festival will be
held the following day at the same venue. And the man
behind the festivals, Radio Tarana managing director
Robert Khan, says he expects at least 5000 people per
day to grace the gathering. “It is a summer event for the
whole family,” Khan told the Indian Weekender.
Khan said they decided to hold the festivals sepa-
rately over two days so that people could experience
the different flavours of the regions.
“Fiji Festival is a Pacific based festival with
Indians, Fijians, Rotumans, Chinese and others while
India Festival is one with Indians only,” Khan said.
“The content of both events are different and we
feel that people need to experience two different days
with different flavours.”
12
VICTORY: (Top) The jubilant Melbourne
side which recently won the veterans
soccer tournament in Auckland; The men
behind the success of the tournament: Ay-
aaz Khan, left, and Satyawan Singh of the
Fiji-NZ Veterans Soccer Association.
Soccer Inc had come on board with their teams as
they did not have enough teams to hold the tourna-
ment on their own.
Khan said the end result was a bigger and better
tournament enjoyed by all. A total 33 teams took part
in the tournament, with a total 71 games played over
six days.
Before the main final, all participants observed a
minute’s silence to remember the veterans who were
no longer with us, namely: Simon Peters (Labasa),
Solo Junior (Tavua), Nikka Dean (Lautoka) and
Leone Rakoroi (Suva).
- Arvind Kumar
Understanding personal tax summaries, tax
returns, Working with Family tax credits, Ki-
wiSaver.
Water Safe in Auckland
Saturday 27th February 2010, 9.00am – 3.00pm
Learn how to be water safe this summer from
Auckland Regional Council’s Park Rangers at
Muriwai Beach.
For the Fiji Festival, the original “Bobby Darling”
is expected to be one of the main highlights. Dancer
Bijuria, a walking on nail stunt, and a Faag competition
are among the other key attractions.
Traditional Fijian food such as lovo, palusami and
palau will also be sold among the numerous food stalls.
For the India Festival, classical items, Bollywood
dances, traditional Indian food, and live band perfor-
mances in the evening will be the crowd pullers.
“It will be a showcase of cultures from various
parts of India, backed by solid variety of entertainment
and not to mention the food.” Entry is free and so is
parking, says Khan. The events are backed by Radio
Tarana, Diners Club, Tourism Fiji, Air Pacific and
World Travel Centre.
* February 20-21, Fiji and India Festivals, Telstra-
Clear Pacific Events Centre, Manukau, 12 noon-9pm.
Entry free, lots of parking.
Community
You now have more time to submit your entries Prizes include:
for the Short Film Contest being held in New l A trip to India.
Zealand, Australia and India. l An internship on a major Bollywood film
The organisers of the contest, which is part of production.
the International Film Festival 2010 – being held l See your film played to viewership of 300
in New Zealand for the first time, have extended million+ on World Movies India television
the deadline to February 28 for intending partici-
channel.
pants from New Zealand.
l Television exposure. Watch your film play
It was originally scheduled to close Decem-
ber 24, and was later extended to January 30. on your own TV on World Movies Aus
The deadline extension follows the resched- tralia.
uling of the Indian Film Festival from February / l Walk the red carpet alongside high
March to March / April 2010. profile members of the Australian, New \
So, if you consider yourself a filmmaker, get Zealand and Indian film industries.
cracking and submit your entries before the end l Have your film screened in cinemas in
of this month. Melbourne, Sydney, Perth & Auckland.
You could be in to win a trip to India and a Entry Requirements: Your film or video needs
chance to work on a life changing experience of to have SOMETHING to do with India, whether
doing a Bollywood filmmaking internship. it is the location, a key Indian crew member, or a
Enter your short film for exhibition alongside reference to India or Indian culture in the content.
some of the most promising new filmmaking Films should not be more than 10 mins, and can
talent from Australia, New Zealand and India. be shot on any format, although shortlisted films
IFF2010 has life-changing prizes to offer the will need to meet certain quality standards for
winner of its short film and video competition. cinema exhibition. Visit www.iff2010.com for
further details.
How to Enter:
Simply download our entry form and upload your film or video on YouTube.
Submitted films must be less than 10min and have some link to India. Full details of
how to submit, deadlines and criteria can be found at www.iff2010.com
All queries regarding the competition can be directed to competitions@iff2010.com.
The IFF Short Film Competition is an exceptional chance to have your film work
widely seen alongside the best productions from the sub-continent.
Winning entries will also feature at the Indian Film Festival to be held in Melbourne,
Sydney, Perth and Auckland in March and April.
A ‘short + sweet’ experience for
Mrs Maniben R Patel
Auckland hosted its first edition of ‘Short + Sweet’ a
10 minute theatre festival which originated in Aus-
tralia. Alex Broun, the director of Short and Sweet
festival was upbeat about the event in Auckland as it
has taken Australia by storm and is now a permanent
annual fixture in the theatre scene across Australia.
This festival is slowing expanding its horizon and is
now reaching the shores of Malaysia, Singapore, US
and UK.
The first edition of ‘S+S’ had tremendous re-
sponse to entries in all categories. From this there
were 20 plays chosen in the ‘Festival category’ and
20 plays were chosen in the ‘Wildcards’ category.
Among these 20 in the ‘Widlcards’ was an Indian
production by MigHT-I theatre – Mrs Maniben
Patel.
The idea for Mrs Maniben was mooted in the
discussion after MigHT-I theatre was selected to
present an entry in the ‘Wildcards’ as an Indepen-
dent theatre company (ITC). Kaustubh Pethe, came
up with this idea of a funny story that he had heard,
which became the focal point for the play!
Devdutt Paranjape, Bipin Chavan, Sushma
Thakur added a few thoughts which became the
basis of the play. Prashant Belwalkar, then had the
onerous task of writing a script based on the ideas,
which he was able to do just in time given that the
time limit of the play was only 10 minutes.
The play had eight characters in it, Mrs Maniben
(Sushma Thakur), Dr Shah (Kaustubh Pethe),
Jignesh Patel (youngest son, Bipin Chavan), Mandy
Patel (Jignesh’s wife, Andrada Neagu), Hansa Lee nian added not only jest but a bit of glamour to the
(Mrs Maniben’s daughter, elder to Jignesh, Mrunal role. Mrunal Niphadkar as Hansa was very convinc-
Niphadkar), Chang Lee (Hansa’s husband, Devdutt ing as a daughter and Devdutt Paranjape as Chang
Paranjape), Karsanbhai Patel (Eldest son, Prashant was a revelation.
Belwalkar) and Kokila Patel (Karsan’s wife, Jayas- Many found it hard to believe that he was not an
hree Sonar). The casting reflected the mix bag of Asian! Jayshree Sonar excelled in her role as Kokila
characters and the idiosyncrasies’ they brought to and Prashant Belwalkar was his usual self in de-
the role. picting the eldest son Karsanbhai. This pair had the
The play was very well received by the largely most laughs from the audience! And finally Sushma
Kiwi audience and despite the differences in culture Thakur, as Mrs Maniben was a portrait of a stoic but
and accent, they applauded at all the right punches strong matriarch of the family, who despite her age
and had a hearty laugh. Kaustubh Pethe, as Dr Shah, was in control of everything around her!
was his usual best and was the focal character, who A not to be missed performance and a tremen-
had some important news to give to the children. dous achievement for this group. Though they failed
Bipin Chavan, as Jiggy the youngest son, to qualify for the finals, the play left a lasting impres-
proved his mettle with a wily performance which as sion on the audience! Let’s hope for some more plays
matched by Andrada as his wife. This young Roma- from this group.
Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz
Indian
Community

Pandit Vikash and Prabhash Maharaj regale NZ audiences

The father-son duo Pandit Vikash Maharaj and
his son Prabash Maharaj belong to the famous
‘Maharaj’ clan of Benaras and are the 14th
and 15th generation of musicians from this
ancient city. They are the torch bearers of the
oldest living musical family going back 500
years. Migrant Heritage Charitable Trust Inc
(MigHT-i) hosted the talented artistes in New
Zealand.
Panditji started off his musical journey as
a Tabla player under the tutelage of his father
the late Pandit Nanku Maharaj, aptly known
as ‘Bengal Tiger’. However, it was Panditji’s
mother who diverted the attention of young
Vikash to sarod who excelled in this instru-
ment under the guidance of his Guru, the late
Shri Rajesh Chandra Moetra of the Maihar
Senia gharana. The blessing of both gharanas
can be seen in Panditji’s compositions. Ac-
companying him was his equally talented son,
a young musical prodigy who started playing
tabla at the young age of two. Prabhash, won
his first gold medal by the age of twelve at the
Centre of Cultural Resources and Training,
followed this up by winning six more such
medals. The duo are a part of the ‘Holiwater
Project’ and were in New Zealand on the eve
of New Year to perform in Tauranga.
The tour of New Zealand aptly titled
“Sangam” , with MigHT-I, started off with
a performance in Auckland, where the audi-
ences were left spellbound with the rendition
of raag Malhaar. The gentle plucking of the
strings of Sarod created an ambience of peace
and tranquillity in the auditorium. This was a
precursor for the second half to come. It was
a surprise item presented by Panditji and Tom
Bailey. Along with Pinker they played some
exquisite fusion numbers based on classical
Indian music themes. This was a wonderful
item and for the first time, fusion sounded so
soothing and calming to the ears. The audi-
ence were left with a soul cleansing effect at
the end of the show and many wanted it to go
on forever!
Pandijti and Vikashji then hosted some
MigHT-I has been striving since its incep-
tion to bring some classical Indian Music, Art
and Heritage to New Zealand. Sangam has
been a part of that journey. Whilst the shows
have been well attended, it will take some
time before they can match with the crowds
that come to the “Bollywood” musical shows.
However, Varsha Belwalkar – Secretary of
MigHT-I is confident that very soon they
will be able to attract a large section of New
Zealand audiences towards this classical form
of music. A special mention must be made
of Bharat Jamnadas, Satish Sharma, Meena
Patke, Suresh Bhana and Bhagavan who have
worked tirelessly and continue to support the
cause of MigHT-I and retain the flavour of
Indian classical music. Watch this space for
the next event by MIGHT-I.
Pandit Vikash Maharaj & son
Prabhash Maharaj
workshops in the Radhakrishna Mandir, Mt
Eden where the students were taught the finer
nuances of some of the ragas and the way some
ragas are treated in the Benaras Gharana Style.
The workshop at Papatoetoe was co-hosted by
Manjit Singh where his students of the Patiala
gharana were exchanging notes with Vikash,
who highlighted the salient features of both
the Gharanas as well as the key differences.
Panditji meanwhile rendered some wonderful
coaching on singing and ragas.
The finale of the Sangam tour was at Wel-
lington. This event was co-hosted by New
Zealand Indian Fine Arts Society, Wellington.
A knowledgeable crowd in Wellington were
treated for some wonderful ragas as well as
semi-classical forms like Thumri, Kajri by
Panditji. Despite the long weekend holidays
and the heavy rains which accompanied the
show, the audiences felt enthralled at the music
and were eager for more such shows.

Amit Kumar to sing in city

Remember the hit 80s movie Teri Kasam? Remem-
ber heart-throb Kumar Gaurav giving life to the
lilting lyrics of Yeh Zameen Ga Rahi Hain on the
misty hills in Teri Kasam?
Now, you will soon get to see live the man who
actually voiced those unforgettable numbers which
are as much a hit today as they were 20 years ago.
Amit Kumar will perform live in Auckland in
May in a one-off performance which is already gen-
erating huge interest among music lovers. Amitji,
son of the legendary Kishore Kumar, will be
singing many popular numbers from his own and
his super star father’s collection.
Also singing with Amitji will be well known
local artiste Gopal Bhatia, the man behind the Yeh
Zameen Ga Rahi Hai – Amit Kumar show coming
to Auckland.
Gopal, also a presenter on Radio Tarana, talks
to Indian Weekender’s Arvind Kumar about Amit
Kumar’s visit.
When is the Amit Kumar show? Date, tickets
prices, availability, venue, etc . . . ? Show is on Sat-
urday, May 1, at Logan Campbell Centre Green-
lane, Auckland, Tickets prices are VIP $35 (re-
served ) $30 (general ), $5 discount if bought before
March 31, tickets are available at all Indian outlets
and can also be booked by calling 09 624 6330.
Why did you choose to bring Amit Kumar?
Amit is talented singer just like his father, leg-
endary Kishore da. Most Auckland music lovers
know that I am a great fan of Kishore da and have
been doing many shows and giving musical tributes
to him. This time, I have an opportunity to have his
own son Amit Kumar to give him a musical tribute
along with legendary musicians who have been
working with Kishore Kumar and R.D.Burman
from the music industry. This is also Amit Kumar’s
first time in New Zealand.
Is Amitji keen to come to New Zealand, this
being his first visit?
Yes, for sure, when I spoke to him and proposed
him for the NZ concert he was very keen to come
perform and share musical memories of his legend-
ary father, Kishore Kumar, as well as singing his
own hit numbers.
Is he accompanied by an orchestra?
As I have mentioned,the musicians coming
from Bollywood were involved in making the
original music for legendary music director R D
Burman and performed with Kishore Kumar, Lata
Mangeshkar and many more.
What popular numbers will he be singing (his
own) and those of his legendary father Kishore
Kumar?
Well, many of his popular songs like Bade
Achhe Lagte Hain from Balika Badhu and of course
Yeh Zameen Ga Rahi Hai (please note the name of
the show is Yeh Zameen Ga Rahi Hai ) and also his
father’s hit numbers like Roop Tera Mastana and
many more.
Will he be singing Main Ekh Panchi Matwala
Re . . . ? Who is the original singer?
The song is composed by his father and sung by
himself, he would love to sing it
What’s Amitji’s favourite song?
He found this question difficult to answer
ye zameen ga rahi hai: (left) Gopal Bhatia, well known local singer and radio pre-
senter, is the man behind the Amit Kumar show titled “Yeh Zameen Ga Rahi Hai”.along
with Amit Kumar (right) Amit Kumar will be performing in Auckland in May.
because there are many songs which are his favou- their music alive for years to come.
rite. At what age did Amit Kumar start singing, do
How many New Zealand shows are planned? you know?
This is going to be the one and only show. Amit Kumar made his debut in singing and as
What are your views of Amit Kumar as a singer? a child actor at the age of 11 in his father’s movie
Are you singing with him as well? Door Ka Rahi. He recorded a song Main Panchi
Well, besides directing the entire concert, Matwaala Re as child singer artist. This song was
singing with Amit Kumar will be a great honour removed from the film later by Kishore Kumar.
and privilege as he is the son of my all time favou- Why is the show labelled Yeh Zameen Gaa
rite idol Kishore da. Rahee Hai . . . ?
What are your views of Kishore Kumar and RD This is the title of the show because it is sung
Burman? by Amit Kumar himself and composed by RD
Kishore da and Pancham da were the greatest Burman. This is the theme of our show.
musicians of all time. They have left memories of
an immortal musical journey. This show is to keep - Arvind Kumar

Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz 13

 Indian
Indian
Letters
We Need Self Esteem and not Unrewarding Politics!
NZICA condemns this misinformation by some about it belonging to any forum. Even a poster
was published without NZICA consent – this is wrong and unethical. Representing Indians in
New Zealand since 1926; NZICA is composed of 17 organisations (all democratic and spread
From the Editor across NZ) and it does not accept self-styled individuals; trusts or religious groups to repre-
sent it. Rather than playing into unrewarding politics and only focus on dignitaries; our func-
National torn between pragmatism and realpolitik tions need to infuse self-esteem.

Though you can’t get everyone to agree on any set prescription to fix it, everyone would - Veer Khar, General Secretary, NZICA
readily concur that New Zealand’s tax system is badly broken. In fact it is like an ailing
patient in intensive care with multiple serious disorders. Strong medicine to treat one set
of them could produce side effects disastrous enough to cause other ailments to deterio-
rate and threaten the patient’s survival. Why Gandhi was a Mahatma
A delicate balance, therefore, is called for, comprising a host of mild medicines along Very well written article. There is no dougbt about Gandhiji’s greatness. I would like to add
with a scalpel or two and, of course, a fearless medicine man unafraid to take the risks.
another Greatness in Gandhiji that no man may ever equal: his path of non-violance: “Amhinsa
That role has fallen on the twin shoulders of Prime Minister John Key and his deputy and
Parmo Dharma.” In a world where even a brother willingly resorts to weapons against his own
Finance Minister Bill English.
If this week’s speech by the Prime Minister seemed tame and lackluster, it is because brother, Gandhiji stood against the British might virtually bare handed – or only with his lathi.
of the delicate situation of the ailing tax system. The consequences of any strong medi- Those who differ on Gandhiji’s achievements need to re-read his autobiography....
cine would be dire especially given the state of affairs of both the New Zealand and
global economies as they emerge out of the past two years’ great recession. - Satendra Kumar
Then, of course, there is the very practical issue of realpolitik.
What the Prime Minister has essentially indicated is a reordering of the tax pie not
increasing its size, making it look like the softest of options. The proposed hike in GST to
15 per cent is to be offset by lower tax rates and therefore, in the surmise of his govern- Hiren Mohini
ment’s scheme of things – will not affect low wage earning families. That, to say the least,
is debatable and the proof of the pudding can only be verified in the eating.
My heart goes out to Hiren and his family this was a very tragic and sad thing to occur. I wish
He has left the controversial issue of taxing property investors, speculators and land-
all the best to his family and hope they can find the support they need to tide this difficult time.
lords to bring a better measure of equitability for another day, making his approach look
gutless and without teeth. Taxing this sector is an obvious option given the manner in
which skews the country’s tax system and would be a logical one for anyone with the kind
of financial savvy that Mr Key is renowned to have.
But it is here that realpolitik has kicked in and Key the politician has won over Key the Christmas in the Big Apple
financial wizard. For it is obvious that it is this segment that largely comprises Nation- I spent a month in NYC back in 04 but it’s still fresh in my head. Esp. nights @Times Square...
al’s vote bank and there is no way any politician worth his or her salt would antagonise the buzz is so thick, you can cut it with a knife. Let’s just say its one big apple with bite. Nice
a vote bank in such an obvious manner. one, Rashmi. Took me right back.
But what is truly confounding is why he has left out the issue of reducing company tax - Amar Trivedi
– an obvious vehicle of investment and therefore an engine of growth. This was in many
ways a no brainer and would have had a please all effect – if not for anything else, for
its feel good factor. Or, for that matter, announcing some sort of attempt to index taxes
to inflation.
It is obvious that Mr Key has a few trump cards he has not revealed and is saving the When a black cat crosses your path
best for budget time, three months from now. With his speech this week he has revealed I think it is time we all woke up and embraced positive thinking and attracted some positive
enough to generate debate and provide plenty of cud to the opposition to chew on. In the energy than be bogged down with superstitious beliefs that somehow instills fear and is slightly
meantime, between now and the budget, his team can gauge reaction and fine tune the veiled with bad energy. This is a good article.
final policies based on feedback. - Rashmi
By the time the budget is out this year, National would be well into the middle of its
term and proceeding toward the next elections. It will be interesting to see the choices Mr
Key and Mr English will make between financial pragmatism to pull the country’s taxa-
tion system and its economy out of the morass and the hard boiled reality of realpolitik.

Top 10 stories on www.iwk.co.nz

Power of the community
1. Indian Taxi driver dies after incident on the job
There is little doubt that the manner in which the community rallied around the tragic
killing of Indian taxi man Hiren Mohini played a part in the scale of the investigation that 2. Man in footage sought by homicide team
has been mounted and the alacrity with which the government has acted in engaging with 3. Rotorua Indian Association President dies in accident
stake holders. Fifty police investigators, a billboard campaign and the readiness of the
4. When a black cat crosses your path
government to consider a number of safety measures are all encouraging developments.
We deeply mourn the passing of Hiren and while praying for his departed soul also 5. Hundreds farewell slain taximan Hiren Mohini
sincerely hope that his sacrifice will not have been in vain and that the government will
6. Indian RDay diamond jubilee celebrated in Auckland and Manukau
take the necessary deterrent steps urgently, not only in terms of physical barriers in taxis
but also stronger laws to deal with offenders. 7. $15 minimum wage is suicidal say Indian business leaders
As shown in the present instance, a united community can go a long way in helping 8. Christmas in the Big Apple
achieve such outcomes.
9. Mumbai dabbawallas in Harvard curriculum
10. Attacks on Indians “fabricated”

Indian Weekender Volume 1 No 23

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14 Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian
Comment

Our complacency on animal cruelty must be shunned

Rashmi Shenoy
The media covers heart-rending instances of the services of Crown thing. Their corpo- placed into the marked bins at the SPCA.
cruelty to animals from time to time, which prosecutors. rate sponsors/adver- 5. If you don’t have the time or interest to go
is enough to churn stomachs and bring tears Currently SPCA tisers use the number to the SPCA then check out super markets
to the eyes of anyone with even an iota of depends on charity of of daily visits to near you that have food bins for pets. At least
compassion in them. The latest among these
sordid stories was the shooting of the 33 dogs
the legal profession to
prosecute such cases
“It’s time to get donate food to aban-
doned/neglected
once a month buy any pet food on special and
drop it in these bins.
and puppies near Auckland. How does a man
barely able to manage himself come to care
of torture. The sen-
tence should always tough on really animals in exchange
for advertising. This
6. All those singers, dancers or sports men
out there, conduct a game or show off your
for 33 dogs? ref lect the intensity of is an American site talents and raise funds for this cause at least
Why are the perpetrators that torture these
defenseless animals inf licting excruciating
pain inf licted on the
animal and the sadism
serious animal but hey animals are
animals where ever
once a year.
7. From time to time check the wishlist on
pain and fear? What good does this do them?
And then there are people who abandon
involved. If the gov-
ernment can provide a cruelty. The public’s they are.
2. Adopt a pet, don’t
SPCA’s site - http://www.spca.org.nz/wish-
list/info.htm you may be able to help in some
animals; who do not provide them with suf- grant to saving foolish buy. Adopting a way.
ficient food or water; and the list goes on.
How can anyone doing this have a clear con-
people who put their
own lives at risk then
attitude has shelter dog, puppy,
cat, kitten, rabbit,
8. De-clutter at home. You may find some-
thing that you can donate.
science?
One dog owner tried to strangle his dog
these animals deserve
it too. After all, this is hardened on this or whatever always
helps. Thousands of
9. If you are a retailer please set up a collec-
tion box. Donate it to an organisation of your
using a chain and when the dog was still a country that depends animals that are not choice.
alive 30 minutes later, he poured petrol down
its throat; put a pillowcase in its mouth and
so heavily on animals.
“It’s time to get
and so should court adopted get eutha-
nized. While there
10. Send this to all your friends and even if
you don’t, someone you know may do some-
finally hit it with a spade. For this all he got
was a year in jail. And they say a dog is a
tough on really serious
animal cruelty. The sentences,” are shelter animals
being euthanized,
thing for these animals. Pass on your passion,
it is infectious.
man’s best friend. The question is if a man public’s attitude has pet shops are breed- There are many more issues like battery
can ever be a dog’s best friend? Can a man hardened on this and ing and feeding cute hen farming, factory farm pigs, whaling, seal
ever be half as loyal to the dog as the dog is so should court sen- puppies and kittens slaughtering and much more.
to its master? tences,” says Bridges. into this world with New Zealanders are very generous people.
The good news, however, is that Tau- “The bill is now in only profits in mind. Let us all get together and make this world
ranga MP Simon Bridges’ private member’s the very capable hands of Hon. David Carter, You can gift or adopt a pet at www.petson- a better place to live in, not only for these
bill has been accepted by the government. Minister of Agriculture. I have offered to thenet.co.nz, http://www.spca.org.nz/adop- animals but for ourselves too. Support the
It is only hoped that it just doesn’t increase assist him in any way to progress the bill.” tion/adoption.htm or http://huha.alteredego. animals in whatever way you can.
the maximum penalty for willful abuse of So what can you and I do to stop this co.nz/index.html - Rashmi Shenoy works with Hewlett
animals from three years in jail to five. It is torture and help this case? Here’s what: 3. You can volunteer to donate money or your Packard full time as a services account
further hoped this bill provides for annual 1. Go to http://www.theanimalrescuesite. time – whatever works for you. manager and writes for IWK in her spare
government subsidies; grants to animal com/ click on the purple box ‘fund food for 4. Donate items such as blankets, food, news- time and can be contacted
welfare organizations and makes available animals for free’. This doesn’t cost you a paper, chew toys and treats. These can be via Indian Weekender.

What makes a Fiji Indian

Subhash Appana
At a recent gathering of social organiSation
Settlin In, I was asked by a group of lovely Fiji
women to talk briefly about being a Fiji Indian
and what it really meant. This was an unexpected
request that had to be met impromptu, but I did
manage to ramble around the topic for about 10
minutes. My input however, did not satisfy me,
so I thought of writing this article for the wider
audience.
There is little arguing that there are distinct
differences between the Fiji Indian and the Indian
Indian. Of course one is bidesi and the other desi.
That aside, the Fiji Indian’s social experiences
have Fijianised him to varying degrees. I can
clearly tell from afar who is a Fiji Indian from the
posture and general style of the person.
The gestures, mannerisms, way of dress-
ing and talking, manner of eating and drinking,
walking style, etc. are all very Fijian Indian.
There is an aggressive male style bias even
among Fiji Indian females. This is because that
is what is accepted and respected by the wider
community in Fiji. Anything less than that is
considered wimpish.
The Fiji Indian’s diet has a heavy meat bias
and a vegetarian is often seen as a “lesser” being.
There is even an elevated social status attached
to eating meat. Luckily this has begun to change.
Likewise, one who doesn’t drink is considered
odd while out-drinking others is seen as manly.
This is not necessarily the case with the real
Indian even though they also have their carni-
vores and bottle duelers.
These characteristics aside, the Fiji Indian’s
history is unique. It is this history that has made
the Indo-Fiji and provides insights and pointers
on the whats and whys of this unique category of
the wider Indian diaspora.
History of the Fiji Indian
The background of the majority of Fiji Indians
is that of indentured laborer – a modern day slave
brought over from India between 1879 and 1916
to meet the desperate manpower needs of white
plantations. At that time it was 5 years, but this did fied through religious doctrine that naturally
the primary focus of the not guarantee freedom as played a central role in life at the time.
colonial administration the girmitiya had to pay This focus continued among the descendents
fell on ensuring the vi- The background of the his own passage back who built schools, temples, mosques and other
places of worship through sheer hard work and
ability of the economy
though Indian input in
majority of Fiji Indians is that after 5 years or get a free
ticket after 10 years. The mutual charity. Schools popped up in remote
the sugar industry. choice was virtually non- farming enclaves as the search for education led
That labour-capital
of indentured laborer – a existent. to the establishment of ever bigger and better
relationship was fraught
with oppression, exploi-
modern day slave brought Life in the plantations
was one of hardship, op-
schools in central locations. Fiji’s more promi-
nent schools now are Indian because of the fore-
tation and atrocities that over from India between pression and continuous sight and sacrifice of these pioneers.
are well documented harassment. My great- Another subtle development that was only re-
by Totaram Sanadhya 1879 and 1916 to meet the grandfather, whom I alized much later and erroneously seen as a sign
(1991), Ken Gillion knew, had difficulty of Indian dishonesty, was the pride the Indian
(1962) and Tinker (1974). desperate manpower needs resting on his bed after placed in building/improving his own house.
Later works by Ahmed 4am as he was expected This was not only a status symbol, but it was an
Ali (1979), Vijay Naidu of white plantations. to be up by 3am during attempt to display one’s success – a success that
(1980) and Brij Lal girmit which he’d left was sweeter because it was achieved amid con-
(2004) also highlight the behind 50 years ago. Pay tinued adversity.
unfairness, violence and was one shilling a day for The girmitiya had finally overcome narakh
brutality that indenture entailed. men and 9 pence for women. This was eroded to educate his children and carve out a niche for
Little is made of the fact that the girmitiya through ingenuous means for 28yrs until the one himself in Fiji. He was there to stay because,
could not read, let alone understand, the agree- shilling was finally paid unadulterated in 1908. after all, his soul, toil, tears and tax had helped
ment that he signed to sell his life into servitude. Struggle for Recognition make the country what it was in 1970 – a model
The word girmit itself is an agonised version of The girmitiya realized early that he had to of peace, progress and prosperity. The girmiti-
the word “agreement” that they were forced to understand the sahib’s language, especially that ya’s role in building Fiji can only be discredited
sign before they could access the land of oppor- contained in legal documents, to minimize the by the devious and dishonest.
tunity that they were promised. Many thought exploitation and cheating that he was being sub- My next article will focus on the plight of the
Fiji was just a day’s journey away! jected to. That became an obsession that spawned Fiji Indian after Fiji’s first coup in May 1987. It
The girmitiya’s odyssey was one infested Fiji’s Indian lawyers who almost naturally is interesting that the search for meaningful ac-
with vermin, disease, starvation, cramped space became politicians. ceptance continues as the girmitiya is repeatedly
and indignity. Sanitary facilities were inadequate The girmitiya also realized the importance rebuked, castigated and reviled by a country that
at best and the living deck became a suffocat- of political representation in a hostile environ- he still loves. PS. The Government by Greed
ing cesspool of misery after only a few days. ment that was totally stacked against him. Thus series will continue after that.
The journey lasted at least 10wks on sail ships! they struggled for political rights to regain their
Records show that 412 perished in the drudgery izzat (respect) that had been compromised when
before reaching Fiji. Caste demarcations also they signed the girmit and lost when they lived - Subhash Appana is an academic and
died during that shared voyage as all became through the narakh (hell) of girmit in Fiji. political commentator. The opinions contained
simple jahajis. The focus of the girmitiya who stayed behind in this article are entirely his and not neces-
The main difference between slavery, which after 1920 was on hard work, frugality and edu- sarily shared by any organizations he may be
was abolished by the British, and girmit, which cation for their children as the only means to rise associated with both in Fiji and abroad. Email
was introduced to replace it, was that girmit had above the poverty and squalor in order to secure subhasha@ais.ac.nz
a fixed time period of bondage. In the case of Fiji, their future. Each of these objectives was glori-

Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz 15

Indian
Bollywood

Vivek turns ‘chaiwala’ on Dance India Dance

It’s celebrities galore on Zee TV’s reality show ‘Dance India Dance’! After
Salman Khan and the Big B made their presence felt, this week it was the very
spirited Vivek Oberoi who took off full throttle.
Right from reminiscing the memories of his struggling days with Geeta
Kapur to his choicest memories with each of the mentors - Vivek clearly stole
the hearts of one and all.
The enthusiasm with which he entered the stage and got himself involved
in the show clearly showed that Dance India Dance was unquestionably one of
his favourite shows.
He was totally enthralled by Shakti and Kunwar’s contemporary urban
hip-hop act on ‘ bheegi bheegi si hai raatein bheegi bheegi’ and Binny and
Kishore’s ‘Saathiya act’…
Its known to very few that Remo D’souza is responsible for giving Vivek
one of his biggest hit songs of his career – ‘ Ae ganpat chal daaru la..’
But this time, Ganpat ne daaru nahi chai pilaayi (made people drink tea
instead of liquor)…Vivek was clearly on a trip down the memory lane. He went
on to narrate how during his struggling days, when he was a dancer in Farah
khan’s troop,
Geeta Kapur was the only girl who had given him some ‘bhaw’ (impor-
tance).
“Guys you won’t believe, Farah had entrusted me with the duty of serving
tea to everyone. So I was this official chaiwala (teamaker)in Farah’s troop. I
used to serve tea to all the unit members. Nobody used to agree to dance with
me.
One day Geetu took pity on me and made me her partner…I was totally
overjoyed! She was one of the best dancers in the troop. And undeniably the
most beautiful and sexiest one! And let me confess to the entire world… I had
one of my biggest crushes on Geeta Kapoor…” said an ecstatic Vivek who
could not stop appreciating the show.
To Mithun Chakraborty, he said, “Dada, you are an idol for people like us
who aspire to become somebody from nobody.
I must have seen your ‘julie Julie’ song some 2000 times! I’m totally crazy
about this song”.
To keep his request, an enthusiastic Mithun da put the stage on fire as he
danced on ‘Julie Julie…’ with all the contestants!
- IBNS

16 Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian
Big B opened champagne on Abhi’s birth! Preview: ‘Hide and Seek’ to release Feb 19
As Abhishek Bachchan turned 34 last week, his
sister Shweta Nanda recalled how excited ‘Paa’
Amitabh was the day he was born.
To celebrate her joy on Abhi’s birthday, Shweta
has writtern a piece for a film trade magazine-Box
Office India Weekly. On Thursday night Big B up-
loaded the edit note on his blog.
“On the eve of Abhishek’s birthday as we
prepare to welcome the 5th I can only share the joy
with my extended family by putting out what Shweta
wrote for a magazine on her brother,” Big B wrote in
his blog late Thursday night.
Shweta, in her edit piece, said Feb 5, 1976 was
a day of celebration for the entire Bachchan family.
“As my mother explains it, she chose the name
Abhishek, for her second born, and only son,
because it means the anointing of a king or God- in
her context it was Amitabh Abhishek- the crowning
glory of her husband.
“At the hospital that day, there was an atmo-
sphere of celebration- my father opened bottles of
champagne, though it was strictly forbidden, and ev-
eryone, including the reluctant nurses imbibed and
partook in the revelry.
So, Abhishek brought with him euphoria and
merriment; the air was thick with bubbles and the
pop of corks and before the new born could even
utter his first independent cry, his destiny was thrust
on him – he was to the manor born… and Abhishek
would not disappoint.”
All praises for her brother, Shweta said she
admires Abhishek’s ability to carry such an awesome
mantle with such grace, yet never losing his innate
affability.
“Seldom, in these many years have I come
across anyone who is impervious to his charm and
effervescence. Yet very few could grasp what it
would feel like to be in his shoes, while he himself
has much bigger shoes to fill. He makes it look ef-
fortless,” she said.
Shweta further said Abhi wanted to take up
acting ever since he was a child.
“Ever since he was a boy, he wanted to act. He
enjoyed going on the sets and struck up friendships
with the entire unit, they indulged him and I remem-
ber him making a boy’s game out of serious props
like swords and hand pistols. The sets were truly his
playground.
“At home he enacted action sequences with all
his vigour, me and my hapless dolls and teddy bears
bearing the brunt of his melodramatic fury. I correct
myself, he didn’t want to grow up to be an actor- he
wanted to grow up and be Amitabh Bachchan!
“Today when I see him on screen, larger than
life, it feels surreal, glimmers of his make believe
world of dangerous villains and man eating mon-
ster’s flash through my mind.”
Shweta further said AB Junior is a man with tre-
mendous grit.
“Many a time people get taken in by the boyish
pranks and fail to see the man inside- who has tre-
mendous grit, it may take him time to get to where
he wants but get there he will…have no doubt about
it. He is capable of such maturity and intensity in his
performances it belies his years.”
“I have to admit I have watched all his movies
behind a veil of tears, tears of joy and pride that he
is realizing his dream and my mother’s – Amitabh
Abhishek- Amitabh’s crowning glory!” she added.
I dedicate the year to you (fans), tweets Abhishek
The Bachchan boy turned 34 today (Friday); and dedicated the year to his fans.
“Thank you all so much for all your wishes.
You are the most special to me! I dedicate
this year to all of you. You who make me
who I am,” tweeted Abhishek Bachchan, as
his Twitter account got flooded with wishes
from fans.
“I hope the lord gives me the opportu-
nity to repay all of you for your love and
blessings.I love you very much. Thank you
all for all your wonderful wishes. They
are the best presents for me. Your love and
support towards me is invaluable for me.
“Thank you for making me feel so
special. I am forever indebted. I promise I
will try and reply to as many of you as I can.
Big love!!!” read AB Junior’s tweets.
Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz
Moser Baer Entertainment Ltd’s latest thriller
‘Hide and Seek’ is set to release on Feb 19.
The film stars Purab Kohli, Mrinalini
Sharma, Samir Kochhar, Ayaz Khan, Arjan
Bajwa and Amruta Patki.
‘Hide and Seek’ is a suspense film produced
by Apoorva Lakhia and Laxmi Singh.
The story is of 6 friends who start playing
a game of Hide and Seek on a cold Christmas
night. But little do they expect that night and that
game would change Om, Abhi, Jaideep, Imran,
Gunita and Jyotika’s lives forever.
Twelve years later, while some still wrestled
with memories of that fateful night and others
left it buried deep within them, it was a past that
came back to haunt them again.
This time it all starts with a mysterious
message – a catchphrase from their past – which
results in Om, just out of asylum, getting a sur-
prise visit from childhood sweetheart Jyotika!
My Name Is Khan review
MANISHA ANJALI
In what is arguably Karan Johar’s most
anticipated film yet, a simple man
with Asperger’s Syndrome becomes
an international media hero and does
extraordinary things on his way to meet
the American president, all in the name
of love. Set in the unsteady political cli-
mate of the 9/11 attacks in America, the
spritely Rizvan Khan (Shah Rukh Khan)
soon realizes that this is the worst time
to be a Muslim.
Audiences still treasure the Shah Rukh
Khan and Kajol romance in Johar’s first
film Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998) and
will be pleased to see all three being
pushed to their professional limits over
a decade later in My Name is Khan.
My Name is Khan is a little less love
story, a little more insight into the
unconventional mind of an intelligent
man afflicted with a peculiar social
condition. Rizvan’s trembling awkward
Abhishek said he will be working harder demeanour, attention to meticulous
this year. detail, unruly honesty and childlike fear
“I will work even harder this year to of the colour yellow makes him all the
prove that I am worthy of all your love and
more charming. Watch how a man with
expectations.”
In his usual witty self, Abhi tweeted autism copes with heartbreak, death
about his niece (Shweta Nanda’s daughter). and discrimination. Oh, let’s not forget
“In the words of my niece- “mamu, imprisonment and state-approved
you’re 34 today? Oh that’s not much older torture.
than me” love it. Forever young!”
In reply to filmmaker Pritish Nandy’s Khan’s portrayal of the disability was
tweet on his birthday party, Abhishek nothing short of genuine. He was
scribbled: “Party is a dangerous word now socially anxious and unaware, yet play-
a days!!! having the biggest party of all. ful, alluring, and oblivious to the racial
SHOOTING!!” hatred and talk of terrorism surround-
ing him. Spectators in the theatre were
Bollywood
While the same message distracts Abhi, Om’s
estranged brother and business tycoon, in a cor-
porate boardroom, it disturbs Gunita, the damsel
in financial distress, sends chills down the spine
of Imran, the fat kid grown up into a muscular
movie star, and intrigues Jaideep, the bully who’s
graduated into a political hooligan. Twelve years
later, someone was bringing them all together to
play that game all over again but this time it will
cost them their lives!
Haunted by the past, trapped in a shopping
mall - six best friends turn into worst enemies as
they play ‘Hide and Seek’.
The film “Hide and Seek” is a debut film
of director Shawn Arranha who started out his
career with first box office film “Saathiya” as an
Assistant Director.
The music of the film is given by Gourav Das-
gupta and Chirantan Bhatt.
in awe, instinctively applauding Khan’s
stuttering one-liners. Kajol, playing his
Hindu love interest Mandira, exuded
raw maternal passion convincingly,
which contrasted well with Rizvan’s
textbook emotions.
Everything about the film is of epic pro-
portions. Grandiose helicopter camera
angles matched the intricate, multi-fac-
eted plot. New characters, situations
and sub-plots continually surfaced
in the troubled multicultural hub that
is America. From the hue-drained
hurricane sequences in small-town
Georgia to the vivid red-white-and-blue
president’s rallies in DC, no stone is
left unturned in the two hours and forty
minutes of My Name is Khan.
Johar successfully fuses Bollywood
cinematic extravagance with arthouse
minimalism in My Name is Khan. The
art direction and epic cinematography
made for spectacular visual moments.
Scenes showing Rizvan hitching a ride
at the back of a white ute full of ripe,
orange pumpkins or Mandira releas-
ing multicoloured balloons in a field of
green are as much for visual pleasure
as they are symbolic.
Bollywood produced films often fall
victim to over-stylisation, but letting go
of this fact makes for a more enjoyable
view. Yes, the film is cheesy. Yes, it is
very much over the top and unrealis-
tic. Yet it is another Khan-Kajol-Johar
partnership that fans will love.
17
Indian
Bollywood

Reel life imitates telly ‘Women look best in

art in ‘Idiot Box’ two-piece bikini’
Sharman Joshi is fun; perhaps he believes a Bollywood
actor need not be politically correct…always. Sreya
Basu gets into a rapid fire Q&A on fashion with the
actor before a he showstops a Chivas Studio fashion
show in Kolkata
What’s style for you?
Style for me is being myself; being at
peace with yourself; being comfortable in
what you wear.
 
And fashion?
Pretty much in the same lines.
 
One word that describes your ramp walk
at Chivas Studio?
Rocking
 
What’s your daily wear?
I don’t follow any trends in that sense.
Jeans, a T-shirt is generally what I wear.
That’s my favourite outfit. But then, I re-
spect the occasion and the people associ-
ated with it, and dress accordingly. If it’s a
formal occasion, I don’t try to be outlandish
and then make a style statement…I don’t
like to do that. If it’s someone’s wedding
reception, I would like to dress up appropri-
ately.  I think that’s very stylish to dress up
outlandish at a wedding reception. Going
to a wedding in a pair of toned jeans and
‘ganji’ is not style.
 
Do you like accessories?
I am not an accessory chap. Watches,
chains…I think that’s not my scene.
 
What are the 5 must-haves in your ward-
robe?
Hanger, a drawer, jeans, T-shirts, under-
wears
 
What does a man look best in?
I can’t look at a man like that! (Smiles) You
have to tell me what do you think a man
looks best in…
 
Tell us about women then…
Women (sighs)! …in a two-piece bikini.
 
Who are your favourite designers?
I wear clothes of Arjun Bhasin; so he is one
of my favourites among Indian designers. I
like Armani and DKNY among foreign ones.
Jyoti Gauba as Anekta Kapoor and (inset) the real ekta kapoor  
What was the first fashionable thing that
Prolific model-cum-actress Jyoti Gauba who plays “Anekta Kapoor – the big boss of Lalaji Telefilms”, you bought with your first pay cheque?
a remixed version of telly baroness Ekta Kapoor in an upcoming comic maverick movie ‘Idiot Box’ I don’t remember that.
directed by Sunanda Mitra, is hardly apprehensive about a backlash from the Balaji camp.  
“Why should I be nervous? There are so many movies which are direct or indirect tributes to
What is your most expensive buy so far?
legendary personalities. At such a young age, Ekta-ji is already an iconic figure worthy enough to be
emulated and idolised. In fact I consider it my good fortune that I was the first and final choice to play Has to a suit from Armani…that’s the most
the Anekta screen-character with the trade-mark red tikka on her forehead,” saus Jyoti. expensive thing I have bought till date.
She is shown as a hyper-impulsive, ambitious, calculating, yet perfectionist character worship-  
ping Lord Ganesha daily in ‘Idiot Box’, which has a feel-good comedy undercurrent with its satirical Where do you generally shop at?
punches. You may call it telly world-reality cinema-meets-hilarious treatment. Generally I shop whenever I am travelling
“Although there are established senior actors in the cast like Sushant Singh, Hrishitaa Bhatt, abroad, with a film, or on a holiday. That’s
Milind Gunaji, Upasnaa Singh and Surendra Pal, I have an author-backed central role,” shrugs Jyoti, the time I generally go out shopping. And what about the best-dressed woman
who has never met Madame Ekta personally but “only seen her photographs in newspapers”.   in Bollywood?
For the glib Jyoti, this riveting role was a blessing in disguise, because for a change in ‘Idiot Box’ Are you brand conscious? Would be (pauses)…Katrina Kaif.
I am playing an unmarried smart lady. Otherwise I have mostly played mother’s screen characters Yeah! I like to dress up in brands; not  
or even a widow’s role like in this ongoing Colors TV serial ‘Maath Pitah Ke Charnon Mein Swarg’. for any stupid reason, but because I see
Meanwhile director Mitra too has no qualms about taking pungent digs at the idiosyncrasies of What does your wife (Prerna) look best
certain standards and quality maintained in dressed in?
the TV world and projecting his version of Ekta. “No, it’s a satirical tribute to the crazy comical
functioning of the TV soap-manufacturing factory, I mean, industry. But I have not at all touched branded products. Everything…I want to score points on this
on Ekta’s personal life, neither have I ridiculed her. Basically ‘Idiot Box’ funnily exposes how some   one, yaar. I can’t say one particular thing …
home-viewers get so addicted to telly-soap characters while on the flip side there are those who hate Who is the best dressed man in Bolly- everything she wears, she looks fabulous.
watching TV serials. In fact I am keen on inviting Madam Ekta for one of the sneak-previews, to wood?  
know her reactions,” he insists. I don’t care. I don’t look at them like that. Photos: Avishek Mitra
- Chaitanya Padukone An India Blooms feature

18 Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian
Bollywood

Garam-Dharam’s ‘dosti 4ever’ Bollywood briefs

“We always try to figure out the true potential

with ‘Sholay’ co-star Amitabh B

of our students and train them to make mark in
the industry. The five years were recognized on
stage for their long-standing dedication towards
the acting school. Many of the successful people
from film industry visit our schools and train the
students to become versatile actors and achieve
their dreams and aspirations,” said Anupam
Kher.
The school currently offers a three-month
long intensive, full-time professional-level
course in acting.
After the opening of the acting school in
Mumbai, this followed the league in various cities
like Ahmedabad, Chandigarh and in London.

Emraan can’t believe his fatherhood!

He can come to terms with his on-screen kisses
quite easily. But when it comes to fatherhood, it
seems, the mickey gets out of Emraan Hashmi.
Emraan’s wife Praveen Hashmi gave birth to
a healthy baby boy (Ayaan) at a Private Hospital
in Mumbai Feb 3.
Needless to say, ‘proud dad’ Emraan is ex-
tremely happy with the beginning of a new
inning in his life
“I’m feeling pretty spaced and it’ll take a
while to come to terms with the fact that I have
actually turned dad. I am very happy and so is
my wife,” said Emraan.
“Fatherhood is a boon and Feb 3 is the finest
day of my life so far,” the actor added.
Emraan is currently shooting for Milan Lu-
thria’s ‘Once Upon a Time’ in Mumbai and is ‘Actor Prepares’ has introduced many of the
looking to take a little break for the cute little finest actors in the film industry, including -
Way back in 1975,when the all-time classic Hindi blockbuster ‘Sholay’ was released, it also projected new entry in his home. Deepika Padukone.
the ‘iconic’ bonding between two buddy partners-in-crime on screen Veeru (Dharmendra) and Jai (
Amitabh Bachchan).
Which is supposedly the ‘golden graffiti’ on the walls of Bollywood history, as an ultimate projec- Madhur ‘proud’ to endorse Indian Brothers to score music for Hema
tion of loyal on-screen ‘true friendship’. But to this day, the ‘off-screen’ bonding between both the films in USA Malini’s movie
legendary actors Dharam and Amit is as mutually close as it was during the making of ‘Sholay’. Indian filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar (Fashion, After giving a new life to lavani and tamasha
This was evident at the recent spectacular 16th Annual Lions ‘Gold’ Awards event convened by Chandni Bar) was recently honoured by the Na- music in the Atul Kulkarni starrer Marathi film
business entrepreneur Raju Manwani in Mumbai for select invitees and a glittering galaxy of film tional Council of Asian Indian Association at Natrang, the National Award winning composer
and TV luminaries. Incidentally, while Dharmendra got his Lions Gold Lifetime Achievement trophy Washington D.C. in USA. duo Ajay-Atul will now be experimenting with
from Amitabh, it was film-maker Yash Chopra who conferred the ‘Best Actor’ honour-award on “I am very glad at this felicitation and felt ab- grand orchestral music.
Amitabh for his awesome performance as the progeria-afflicted teenager in ‘Paa’ . solutely great to meet our community in USA. It According to sources, the talented musicians
In his humbling acceptance speech, Dharmendra jokingly wondered whether he ‘deserved’ such is absolutely great feeling and what is more im- will next be composing for a untitled Bollywood
an award and acknowledged the “overwhelming love of his loyal fans from all over the world which portant that the love & regards for my work that project produced by veteran actor Hema Malini.
is biggest reward”. people had showed me there was no less than the Confirming the news, Atul says, “We are
Hugging buddy co-actor Amitabh, the emotionally-charged Dharam hummed the popular ‘Sholay’ praise from people I get here,” said Madhur. doing a film produced by Hema Malini - the
song refrain ‘yeh dosti hum (kabhi) nahin todenge’, to a thundering ovation from the audience. “Everyone wanted to know lots and lots about music will be heavy with string arrangements
Although the Amitabh-Dharmendra super-jodi emerged the hallmark of the event, it was the our Indian Cinema and I proudly shared my ex- and ballads,” he told radioandmusic.com.
dainty, dignified saree-clad awardee Vidya (‘Paa’) Balan who proved to be among the scene-stealer perience with them. I am proud to be endorsing Ajay Atul had started their journey as com-
besides actors Govinda and Vindoo Dara Singh (‘Bigg Boss’ TV reality show winner). the Indian Cinema,” the filmmaker added. posers with the Tusshar Kapoor starrer Gayab
Later, Madhur addressed a gathering of about (2004). Besides Bollywood, the duo has also
- Chaitanya Padukone 1000 people, with regards to Indian culture and worked for Telugu film Shock.
Photo: Kaushal Punatar

Kajol lampoons Sena; praises Rahul

The latest celeb to comment on the hullabaloo
among Shiv Sena, Rahul Gandhi and Shah Rukh

Biddu’s autobiography hits the stands Khan, is none other than Bollywood actor Kajol.
In her tweet last week she has described the
Sena as ‘Bandar Sena’ (monkey soldiers).
At the same time, she praised Congress leader
Rahul Gandhi for having a day out in Mumbai,
Veteran musician Biddu released his autobiography ‘Made in India–Adven- thereby stumping the Shiv Sena who had geared
tures of a Lifetime’ at the Reliance TimeOut store in Bangalore on Thursday. up to show him black flags and disrupt his pro-
The book has been published by Harper Collins Publishers (HC-P). grammes for his “Mumbai for all Indians”
remark.
The launch was followed by a book reading by the author, book signing and “will be back to Mumbai!!! Hope the Bandar
a interaction with the public at the venue. Biddu regaled the audience by Sena wont stop us ;) thumbs up for Rahul!!!
sharing some of the interesting instances in his life with them and later on Bravo!!!” tweeted Kajol, who was in London for
with the three songs that he sang live– ‘Aap Jaisa Koi’ from the film ‘Qur- the promotion of her upcoming film ‘My Name
contribution of Film Industry to the same. is Khan’.
bani’; Elvis’s ‘I can’t help falling in love with you’, and ‘Smile’. He shared his thoughts on the contemporary “because of some dirty politics, india is trail-
Indian cinema and how it has enriched the Indian ing behind the world, lets be together and show
On being questioned about the likelihood of his returning to music, Biddu Culture. them power of democracy … ” Kajol wrote in a
responded with a tongue-in-cheek answer, ‘Maybe when I am ninety’ and
post.
that at present, he wanted to concentrate on his writing.
Earlier, Shiv Sena had said the party would
The 65 year old music maestro has a three book deal with HC-P. “The first
Anupam’s ‘Actor Prepares’ turns five not allow ‘My Name is Khan’ to be released in
Mumbai unless Shah Rukh Khan apologises for
one is my autobiography. My second novel, serious fiction, is set in Dar- Anupam Kher’s acting school – Actor Prepares – his comments on Pakistani cricketers.
jeeling and Kolkata and has a blend of romance, mysticism, bigotry and recently completed its journey of five years. “all mumbaikers , don’t worry people, even
adventure, and should be out sometime in September or October this year. The school was inaugurated five years back chengez khan can’t stp MNIK release, relax and
The third book is also fiction and is set in Mumbai and will be funny and in Mumbai by Amitabh Bachchan, Yash Chopra, let all ur positive energy flow here,” tweeted
sad,” said Biddu. Subhash Ghai, Aamir Khan and Mahesh Bhatt Kajol .
- Tarachand Wanvari amidst many other celebrities. ‘My Name is Khan’ is one of the first Bol-
Over 400 students have passed out of the lywood films to be distributed by Fox Search-
institute so far; and most of them have found light Pictures in the US and premieres worldwide
careers in the entertainment business, claimed today (February 12).
the institute.

Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz 19

Indian
Indian

Amruta
Patki

20 Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian
Bollywood

‘Scripts are not written for Amitabh Bachchan’

Even at 68, Amitabh Bachchan is bagging ‘Best Actor Awards’, playing son to heroines half his age. Perhaps that’s
the magic of being the ‘Shahenshah of Bollywood’. The living legend in conversation with Sreya Basu in Kolkata

You are playing a media person in Rann. Do you think it is really possible to balance
ethics and TRP (television rating points) in media business?
This is what the film is all about. It is believed that media is the conscience of the country.
And media is a business as well. Do media compromise with its conscience for the sake of
business? Or do media compromise with business so that it can maintain its conscience?
This is the war shown in Rann.

You have shown the dark side of the media in this film…
(Interrupts) No, we haven’t. We have shown the very bright side of media actually. We
are trying to say that in every story there is a beginning, middle and an end. You have to
build a story. If you don’t show a villain there is no point in making a movie. There is a boy
and a girl and a father in-between; and the father doesn’t allow the girl to meet the boy;
something like that. We are showing that there are all aspects to it and how difficult it is to
be in media, what are the problems they go through; what all are the issues that come into
existence.

Okay. So you don’t think it’s the dark side of the media (like taking money and mak-
ing news) that has been highlighted in the film?
We have shown all aspects of it. There is the good, the bad…everything is there. How
these elements are used by some other elements…there is a bit of politics in that also…
and also politicians; and how the story is woven around all these aspects is what Rann is
all about.

You are all set to share screen space with Ben Kingsley in Teen Patti this February.
How do you feel?
It has been a great experience. He’s a wonderful human being.

While all your contemporaries have taken a backseat, you are still bagging ‘Best Ac-
tor’ awards…
Yeah, I don’t know what to say about that (laughs). I am just fortunate that there are people
who still like what I do. I am fortunate to get these awards.

You recently got ‘Best Jodi’ award along with Abhishek at a recent awards function.
How did Aishwarya react to it?
She knows it very well that it’s she and Abhishek who are the best couple in real life.

You have played almost all characters an actor can portray in a lifetime…coolie, poet,
genie, teacher, 13-year-old child…and now a newsman. What’s next on your list that
you want to experiment with?
I don’t know what there is…but I do hope there is something…I hope there are people who
can write something different for me and give me an opportunity to work.

But today scripts are written for Amitabh Bachchan …

No (laughs aloud). Scripts are not written for Amitabh Bachchan. Instead, Amitabh
Bachchan tries to fit into the characters.

You are making random appearances both on big and small screen these days. Even
for endorsements, 5 out of 10 ads feature you. So what’s the mantra of being Big B?
Arree, if I would have known that, I won’t be standing here to answer your question. I my-
self don’t know what is there in me. I just hope people keep blessing me this way.

You are an icon to all. Who’s your inspiration?

I think if there is work to do and if there are people who offer me a job, then it’s my duty to
do it to my best.

– Trans World Features (TWF)

Community

Trust appeals for funds for Community Hall

Papakura based Sri Ganesh Temple Trust has announced the beginning of construction Large one-off donations are welcome as well and those who wish will have their name
works for its community hall has commenced. The Hall will serve as wedding mandap displayed in another board in the new hall. Donations of $2,000 or more will have their
with cooking facilities, as well as for community gatherings, for religious and social activi- names displayed permanently. Names of donors will only be displayed after receiving the
ties, as well for meditation, music and yoga classes. respective donors consent to do so otherwise the donation will be anonymous.

“The approximate cost is around $500,000.00,” says Trustee Ray Annamalai. “We are now
appealing to all devotees and friends for financial support.”
The trust is proposing $20.00 per month for an initial 12 month period or for a longer
period if anyone is happy to continue for such period. All $20.00 donors will have their
name displayed for the entire period of 12 months or longer in the Temple premises or in
the new Hall.
All $20.00 donations must be made through automatic payments duly authorised and
signed by the donor to our Temple account effective from March 2010. “We kindly urge all
devotees and friends to come forward and give your support for a Hall that will be an asset
to the Temple and to have better and more comfortable facilities at our site,” Mr Annamalai
said.
Automatic deduction forms are available at the temple and the trustees.

Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz 21

Indian

22 Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian
Travel

The Lord’s darshan and Idli Sambar in Pittsburgh

After last fortnight’s piece on the Big Apple, RASHMI SHENOY catalogues her trip to one of America’s most livable
city – and what’s more, it has its own temple and Udipi restaurant too!

Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania, USA, is the second contained entirely within city limits, beating and Steelers merchandise to fresh flowers and that included some of my favorite dishes that my
largest city in the state. It was my first time to out Venice in Italy by only 3 bridges. Pittsburgh fish. You can visit the Carnegie museums of art aunt put up. After catching up with the family
Pittsburgh and we got picked up by my uncle has 446 bridges in total. and natural history. This is a combination of 2 and an overnight stay the following morning we
who told me Pittsburgh is known as “The City There’s lot more to see and do in Pittsburgh. world renowned museums in one unforgettable flew out from Pittsburgh International Airport
of Bridges”. To name a few, there’s the national aviary across visit. (PIA) which has been a major operator for US
“What about ‘The Steel City’?” I asked. the Allegheny River which has over 600 of the Home to University of Pittsburgh and Carn- Airways since its inception in the 1940’s. Ap-
“Yes they call it that too and that steel is world’s most incredible birds. At the warehouse egie Mellon University, Pittsburgh is a major proximately 6 kms south east of Pittsburgh is
used to make these bridges” he said. district, on The Strip on Saturdays you employer in the education sector. The largest the Allegheny county airport located in West
Historically the city has been known for its can stroll through farmers markets employer in the city is the University of Pitts- Mifflin. There are 3 other smaller airports
steel industry but today its economy is mostly and street fairs where you can burgh Medical Center (48,000 employees) and around the city used by corporate jets and
based on healthcare, education, technology , ro- find shops and exotic grocery the University of Pittsburgh (10,700 employees). private aircrafts.
botics, and of course financial services. In the stores that offer every- 8 of the fortune 500 companies also have their That is all I can tell you about my adven-
mid 80’s Pittsburgh suffered economic troubles thing from kitchen- head quarters in Pittsburgh. tures. I will be back soon for sure. Until next
and the steel industry declined and the modern, ware to costumes The home welcomed us to a large banquet time, be safe and enjoy the summer.
economically strong Pittsburgh emerged.
Today the housing market is relatively stable
despite the subprime crisis.
In 2007, The Forbes magazine named Pitts-
burgh the 10th cleanest city and the following
year the same magazine rated this as the 13th
best city for young professionals to live. Last
year The Economist named Pittsburgh as the
most livable city in the US and the 29th most
livable city in the world.
We were in Pittsburgh only for a day due to
our tight schedule so my uncle turned out to be
my source of information and guide. He took us
to Mt Washington Point and as we looked down
to the downtown area he pointed down to the
rivers known as the Golden Triangle. “This is
the Triveni Sangam – the convergence” he said.
The site at the actual convergence is occupied
by “The Point” which is a state park. The city
itself is on the Allegheny Plateau, where the Al-
legheny River from the northeast and Monon-
gahela River from the southeast come together
to form the Ohio River. Everything around
the river was covered in snow and the day we
were in Pittsburgh, the 21st of Dec 09, was their
shortest day. For all I know the rivers could have
been frozen too but we got the snow flurries and
so we had to keep moving.
We briefly saw the city courts which was ad-
jacent to the central jail. That is good planning
so your convicts don’t go at large en route to the
prison, I thought. My uncle was taking us to Sri
Venkateshwara temple at Penn Hills, the eastern
suburbs. I couldn’t go all the way to Pittsburgh
and miss this temple now could I? This is one of
the earliest Hindu Temples built in the US. This
organisation was established in Aug 1975 and
they received assistance from Tirupathi Devast-
hanam (TTD) in India for construction of the
temple. The construction itself was completed
within a year (1976) and daily worship is per-
formed ever since. The temple has a small and
a large auditorium which is rented for various
ceremonies including weddings. Their dining
hall can be rented along with the auditoriums or
by itself. They also have a lot of cultural educa-
tion happening such as various dance classes,
yoga, Sanskrit classes, Vedanta, summer activi-
ties and youth camp. They have an up-to-date
website so if you are interested, peek into www.
svtemple.org for more information.
We offered our prayers and then we went to
the Udipi Restaurant next door to the temple.
Finding this restaurant brought me immense joy
and nostalgic memories of Udipi. I have spent
some good summer holidays with my grand-
parents in Udipi and finding a restaurant so far
away from New Zealand and India was some-
thing that I had never imagined or expected.
Finding anything associated with this name was
soul satisfying to me.
We were heading home when we hit the
traffic jam – not like the ones we find in Auck-
land on a regular day. This one seemed like the
jams we find on state highways over our long
weekends. I was told that people in Pittsburgh
had “tunnel syndrome”. People driving in full
speed slow down to almost a grinding halt
before going through these tunnels. I found
that most of the tunnels came into being as
the bridges were built. Pittsburgh is the world
record holder for bridges with piers and stands

Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz 23

Indian
Love Aajkal: India has celebrated love for millennia
ram lingam
India has always had a deity of love: ‘Kaamdev’. Poets and playwrights have for centuries captured the power of
love. Love was in the air in ancient India and the whole subcontinent was ablaze with the love and its different
shades. Love in India has been made immortal through her poems, plays, characters and ancient monuments.
Then came the Taj and now Valentine’s Day.
Valentine’s Day celebration is a recent trend
in India and has caught the fancy of people,
especially the younger generation. Even the
orthodox have now started to note 14th Febru-
ary in their little personal diaries. Thanks to
media and consumerism, we find Valentine’s
Day slowly getting mainstreamed in India.
One popular Indian dating website says
February is the most popular month for new
registrations to their website. But even before
the import of this day from the West, Indians
have always had a deep sentiment of love and
don’t turn away any occasion to express love.
It’s not surprising that our Indian cinema is
overf lowing with love and its sentiments in
its stories, music and lyrics. Former Bol-
lywood superstars like Rajesh Khanna were
heartthrobs of millions just riding on the love
emotion. A movie like ‘Ek Duje ke liye’ was
such a hit that many passionate young lovers
who were not successful in getting married
due to society’s norms emulated the tragic
ending of the movie even to the extent of em-
bracing death.
Every Indian regional language has a
classic love story based movie or book. There
are numerous folk tales of legendary lovers
who kissed death with a promise to meet in
heaven. Heer Ranjha, Mirza Sahiba, Sassi
Punnun and Sohni Mahiwal are some popular
tragic romances from the Punjabi lore. These
fables have fuelled our imagination, engage
our emotions, sense and sensibility, and above
all, entertain us.
There is an amazing variety of fabled
love stories in Sanskrit literature, which is
undoubtedly one of the richest stockpile of
stirring love legends. Robert A. Johnson a
world-renowned Jungian analyst, lecturer,
and author of the bestsellers remarks in one of
his books ‘The Fisher King and the Handless
Maiden’ that “Sanskrit has ninety-six words
for love; ancient Persian has eighty, Greek
three, and English only one.
The power of love has been captured for
millennia in the Indian subcontinent by poets.
India has always had its share of some fan-
tastic love stories and poems in Sanskrit are
a testimony to that. Tales like Nala Dama-
yanti, Satyavan-Savriti which are part of the
Mahabharata epic and plays by poet Kālidas
(340 BCE), among many others are truly love
based. Kālidas bases the entire plot of his
dramas title ‘Shakuntala, ‘Abhignanshakun-
tala’ around the shades of remembering and
forgetting the most loved ones. So is his love
24
Robert A. Johnson a world-renowned Jungian
analyst, lecturer, and author of the bestsellers
remarks in one of his books ‘The Fisher King and
the Handless Maiden’ that “Sanskrit has ninety-
six words for love; ancient Persian has eighty,
Greek three, and English only one.
poem ‘Meghdhutam’ where the antithetical
modes of love-in-separation (Vipralamba)
and love-in-union (Sambhoga) are painted
in some sublime Sanskrit language. Though
every country has a history of lovers and lit-
erature on love, India has some really endur-
KHAJURAHO TEMPLES
ing and captivating examples of love poetry
celebrating the joys and sorrows of love in all
its forms and fashions.
There are all sorts of love experiences, in
these poems, as in separation and in union,
before and after marriage, in chastity and be-
Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz
Heritage
trayal. Love poetry has been a staple of litera-
ture on the subcontinent.
Obviously love was in the air in India and
the whole sub-continent was ablaze with the
love and the pangs of passion. The story of
Indian Cupid Kāmadev was known to many as
it was taught through the early Puranas. Since
ancient times, rishis in India have believed
that it was love, which came first and then fol-
lowed the world.
Even during the Indian traditional mar-
riage ceremony itself, the bride’s feet are
often painted with pictures of Suka, the parrot
vāhana of Kāmadev. Astrologers even pre-
scribe the Kāmadev mantra to fulfill desires
of getting into a relationship and marriage.
Given all that information about Kāmadev,
ancient Indians also knew about the lessons
in love making as in Sage Vatsyayana’s Kāma
Sutra.
Love and love-making have also been
graphically sculpted in Khajuraho and
Konarak temples (pictured). Cave paintings,
archaeological findings and a mass of litera-
ture belonging to the Vedic and Buddhist eras
to give a complete portrayal of love.
In the introduction to his book ‘Love in
Ancient India’, M. L. Varadpande an eminent
scholar and theatre historian in India claims
that the first love story of the world was found
in the Rig Veda and the first comprehensive
work on love was written in India with Ka-
masutra becoming one of its offshoots. There
are different shades of love talked about in
the Indian sub-continent starting from carnal
love as in the Kama Sutra to the sublime tran-
scendental love as in sage Nārada’s ‘Nārada
Bhakti Sutras‘ which are aphorisms on love
supreme.
Even contemporary gurus like Swami
Chinmayananda have said, “Love is the heart
of all religions; the theme of all classical works
of art and literature; the song of all devotees.
Scientists know only what love does, not what
love is. Love is to human hearts what the sun
is to f lowers. We like someone “because of ”,
but we love someone “in spite of…”
Love poetry was a known subject to the
educated people of India. Only if our kids
and youth were educated about India’s heri-
tage of love and being love-rich, they would
be rooted in their own emotional wellness and
yet be secular in celebrating Valentine’s day
openly in a typical Indian acceptance of all
world cultures.
Indian
Should the Government remove tax advantages
enjoyed by Property Investors?
RAVI MEHTA
Over the last few days, after tax working
group’s recommendations have been made
public, I have received some calls from
my clients who are Property Investors and
are asking for my opinion if they should
sell their investment properties. There is
growing fear that the government will try
to raise more revenue out of property inves-
tors by disallowing tax incentives. There
are many possible ways, like imposing land
tax, imposing capital gains tax, reducing or
eliminating allowance of depreciation de-
duction on buildings, charging tax on house
equity assuming notional income calculated
at risk free rate. But in Tuesday’s speech in
Parliament, the prime minister clarified that
many of these measures would not be imple-
mented.
According to estimates there are over
$200 billion invested in residential rental
properties in New Zealand. These properties
generated tax losses of around $500 million
in 2008 and as a result there was revenue
loss of $200 million to the government.
It looks that the primary aim of property
investors is not to earn rent but to generate
tax losses and save tax. It makes sense to
tax these people.
Most commentators have welcomed the
working group’s recommendations related
to taxing property investors. But there are
few points to consider and I have contrary
views.
It is estimated that after taking into con-
sideration the Working for Families pay-
ments, 76% of tax is paid by top 10% of
Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz
According to estimates there
are over $200 billion invested in
residential rental properties in
New Zealand. These properties
generated tax losses of around
$500 million in 2008 and as a
result there was revenue loss of
$200 million to the government.
taxpayers. So by investing in residential
investment properties, most of tax is saved
by those who are the major contributors
to revenue. There should not be an outcry
against those who are the major taxpayers
even after claiming tax losses on investment
properties.
Second, if tax incentives for property in-
vestors are removed, it will adversely affect
demand for properties. The construction ac-
tivity may go down resulting in shortage of
houses in future. Drop in construction activ-
ity will adversely impact economic recovery
as well.
Third, if the tax incentives are removed,
it will put pressure on house prices, as many
investors will turn sellers and thus it will
adversely affect economic recovery. If the
house prices go down, the consumer senti-
ment may weaken. The major cause of the
current recession is falling house prices
in US and some other countries. It caused
financial crisis as well, world has still not
come out of the same. Can we afford to allow
Column
our house prices to go down at this stage?
Fourth, what is the justification in axing
depreciation allowance on buildings? The
deprecation rates are calculated according
to economic life of an asset. The buildings
also have got some life, so it is wrong to say
that buildings do not depreciate in value.
Fifth, if tax incentives for property inves-
tors are removed, it may put upward pres-
sure on house rents as the property owners
will try to make good their loss by raising
rents. It will not only effect low income fam-
ilies, but will also increase WINZ payments
on account of accommodation supplement.
Part of the increased revenue raised may be
lost for that reason.
In my opinion, the government should
consider the alternate options of raising
tax revenues rather than taking away ben-
efits enjoyed by property investors. There
are many other ways suggested by different
experts like charging Estate duty and charg-
ing financial transaction tax, government
should explore those.
Whatever is decided will be implemented
in forthcoming budget due in May. There
would be wide spread public discussion. I
am sure our government will take a decision
that will not derail economic recovery and at
the same time move towards a more efficient
tax system.
Ravi Mehta is an Auckland based Finan-
cial Advisor and can be contacted on ravi.
mehta@pfsl.co.nz
25
Indian
A step change in
economic performance
Prime Minister Hon John Key
This week, I opened Parliament by
outlining the Government’s pro-
gramme for the coming year.
In 2010, we’re focusing on growing
our economy, creating new jobs, and
improving public services to better
equip New Zealanders – and particu-
larly young people – for the economic
challenges they face.
National seeks a step change in
economic performance.
We agree with the Tax Working
Group that our tax system has major
problems with integrity, fairness, and
incentives. In Budget 2010 we will
start reforming our tax system.
We want taxes that create incen-
tives to work hard, save, and get ahead.
We also want taxes that are fair.
The government is carefully con-
sidering a modest increase in the rate
of GST, to no more than 15 percent.
We are committed to reducing per-
sonal taxes and changing the way
property is taxed. In the process, we’ll
maintain Working For Families, and
compensate low to middle income
earners for any increase in GST.
Our economic future relies on new
ideas. This year we will help business-
es grow by connecting them with our
best scientists. We’ll invest in more
science and business research, drive
research into agricultural greenhouse
emissions, fund open access food
development facilities, and reform
Crown Research Institutes.
New Zealand’s natural resources
have huge potential to boost econom-
ic growth and create jobs. In 2010,
What you need to know…
oliver pereira
You have had the forethought to take out life
insurance and hence feel secure that your
family and loved ones will be compensated
financially in the event of an unexpected
tragedy that may result in an untimely
death…
But after you are gone how sure are you
that your Life insurance claim will be paid
out?
Again you may be feeling secure that
in an unexpected event of a critical illness
like a heart attack or cancer you have your
Trauma cover…. which is designed to pay
out a claim when you need it most, espe-
cially when a critical illness restricts your
ability to work for a lengthy period of time
and the bills are mounting…..
But what happens if the insurance
company declines your claim?
This quick guide helps to explain why
you are asked questions about your health
and lifestyle
when you apply for insurance cover, and
how you can help make the whole process
run as smoothly as possible especially at
claim time.
1 Always tell the truth
Insurance relies on good faith. You are
insured on the basis of what you tell the
insurer. It’s your duty to provide truthful
26
we’ll work to unlock that potential
by reducing red tape. We’ll drive a
second phase of resource management
reforms, investigate extending mining
on Crown-owned land, remove regu-
latory roadblocks to irrigation, and
reform aquaculture regulations.
We’ll also promote investment in
capital markets while strengthening
protection for investors, and look at
developing New Zealand as a regional
hub for financial services. And we’ll
start new State Highway projects and
lay the first fibre in our ultra-fast
broadband initiative.
National’s other major priority
is significant social sector reforms.
We’ll lift achievement in our schools
through National Standards. We’ll
work to make neighbourhoods safer
by introducing ‘three-strikes’ legis-
lation for the worst violent offenders.
And we’ll continue to provide better,
faster, more convenient healthcare
across our public health service.
We will also deliver on our election
promise to reform the benefit system.
We want to help people back into
work. We’ll adjust the benefit abate-
ment regime to encourage beneficia-
ries to take up jobs and make sure
welfare spending gets to the people
who really need it.
2010 will be a busy year. With a re-
lentless focus on lifting our economic
performance and improving public
services, National is working hard to
secure a brighter future for all New
Zealanders.
and complete information about your health
and medical history.
2 Answer questions as fully as you can
You should provide information relating
to all and any conditions you currently have,
or have had in the past. If you don’t disclose
something that might affect your premium,
the terms of your cover or an insurer’s de-
cision to provide you with cover, this can
lead to delays. At worst, your claim may be
refused or your insurance cancelled.
3 Know what you’re are consenting to
By signing the declaration on your appli-
cation or claim form, you are saying that you
have answered all the questions truthfully
and to the best of your knowledge, and have
provided any other information that may in-
f luence a decision to offer you insurance. It
is important that, if you are uncertain about
anything, you ask for clarity before signing
the declaration.
4 If in doubt, don’t leave it out
If you are unsure of the relevance of any
information, its best to include it on your ap-
plication form, just to be safe.
Three strikes and the violent
criminals are out
Hon Pansy Wong, Minister for Ethnic Affairs
The National-led Government is delivering
on our promise to get tough on violent crime
– with stronger laws and more police and re-
sources put in place to keep our streets and
communities safe.
As part of our coalition agreement with
ACT we are committed to putting in place
a new sentencing regime in our Sentencing
and Parole Reform Bill – which will include a
“three-strikes” policy – targeting violent of-
fenders who continue to show disregard for
the law.
Under the new sentencing regime, people
will receive the standard sentencing and a
warning when appearing before the courts on
their first offence.
The second offence will bring a jail sen-
tence with, in most cases, no possibility of
parole and a further warning.
If the offender appears on a third offence
then they will be given the maximum sen-
tence in jail for the crime, with no possibility
of parole.
This new regime will help keep the worst
repeat offenders behind bars for longer and
will also deter recidivist criminals from com-
mitting further crime by escalating the sever-
ity of their sentences.
Violent offenders who continue to f lout
our laws will be kept off the streets for the
maximum amount of time possible.
The National-led Government is deter-
mined to make our communities safer for Kiwi
families and to get tough on law and order.
We are determined to reduce the number of
crime victims and we are determined to make
life tougher for violent criminals.
These are areas that were raised to us by
the Indian community as being of importance
5 If you don’t know something, say so.
Your insurer will then need to obtain the
information from somewhere else. You must
be asked for consent before further informa-
tion is sought.
6 Know what is in your medical notes
Sometimes your insurer will require
additional information about your health.
In these cases, they might seek informa-
tion from you, your doctor or dentist, your
employer, or ACC or other government de-
partments. Under the Privacy Act 1993, the
insurer must have your permission to contact
someone about your medical history. In ad-
dition, any request must be relevant to the
decision about whether or not to insure you.
7 Keep the insurer up to date.
Your application to disclose everything
you know about your health does not end
until your policy has been issued. Therefore,
if your circumstances change during the
period between making an application and
receiving your policy documents, be sure to
let your insurer know.
Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz
Column
before the election. We have listened and re-
sponded by introducing a number of initia-
tives and tough new laws to ensure that our
streets and our homes are safe.
We are continuing to boost our nation’s
police force by an additional 600 officers by
the end of next year – including more than 160
additional officers who have been assigned to
communities throughout Counties-Manukau.
Our goal is to have 140 more officers join
the force before the end of this year, making
up a total of 300 additional officers in the
region.
I am pleased to note that Police Minister
Judith Collins recently announced that this
boost in officers, combined with new crime-
fighting strategies, have contributed to a sig-
nificant drop in crime within the Counties-
Manukau district over the last three months
of last year.
Provisional statistics show that crime in
the district dropped by around 9 per cent
in the last three months of 2009, which has
bucked a dangerous trend of rising crime
within the region.
In the last five years, before the National-
led Government tackled the issue, Counties-
Manukau had recorded a 16.7 percent in-
crease in total crime – compared to a national
average of 0.7 percent.
These are outstanding results and show
what can be achieved when Police have the
mandate and the resources to respond deci-
sively to crime and work with communities to
prevent crime happening.
The new “three strikes” sentencing regime
will further ensure that crime is kept out of
our communities and that violent criminals
are kept behind bars where they belong.
8 Understanding non - disclosure
The non-disclosure of information
can become an issue at claim time. This
is because, when you make a claim, your
medical history may be investigated more
closely. Even if the information you failed
to provide is unrelated to your claim, but
would have altered the original offer of in-
surance to you, the insurer is legally entitled
to decline your claim or even cancel your
policy.
It is never too late to get in touch with
your insurer and provide them with informa-
tion that you may have forgotten or thought
was not necessary at the time of completing
your insurance applications.
The above information has been provid-
ed to serve only as a guideline to assist in
evaluating your insurance needs. You are
encouraged to do your own research before
arriving at any decisions.
For further information, please contact:
Oliver Pereira – OPM Insurance Ser-
vices Ltd.
Ph. 0800 66 77 92, Faxmail. 021 551
669, Mobile. 021 66 77 92
Email. oliver.pereira@xtra.co.nz
Indian
Muslims on social networks
are sinners, says cleric
Cairo, Egypt: Terming the use of network-
ing sites such as ‘Facebook’ as anti-Islam-
ic, a top Egyptian cleric has issued a fatwa
against it saying Muslims using such cyber
platforms must be considered “sinners”.
And the cleric went to extent of blaming
such sites for growing incidents of marital
discords in the country.
Noted Sunni scholar Sheikh Abdel Hamid
al-Atras, former head of the fatwa com-
mission at prestigious Al-Azhar University
here, issued the fatwa saying such sites
have resulted in rise of the marital infidelity.
“It’s an instrument that destroys the family
because it encourages spouses to have
relations with other people, who break
UNESCO to find ways to
bolster global tolerance
New York: The head of the United Nations
Educational, Scientific and Cultural Orga-
nization (UNESCO) has set up an expert
group to find ways to increase tolerance
around the world, as part of her commit-
ment to promoting a “new humanism” to
pursue a rapprochement of cultures.
The world, Director-General Irina Bokova
said, is marked by a growing interdepen-
dence, but mistrust has also arisen in
recent years.
“I am convinced that UNESCO has all the
strengths needed to provide a humanist
response to globalization and crisis,” she
said. “In response to the sense of vulner-
ability which permeates all levels, there
is indeed a need to invent new forms of
action to safeguard social cohesion and
preserve peace.”
– And now, Skype to be
embedded in TVs
Singapore: Skype has announced its voice
over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology
will be embedded into Internet-enabled LG
and Panasonic television sets and shipped
worldwide by the first half of this year.
The partnership with the two Asian con-
sumer electronics giants marks the first
time the Skype service will be available on
TVs. A spokesperson from the company’s
Singapore office told ZDNet Asia in an
e-mail: “With this announcement, we are
enabling users to enjoy these free, high-
quality video calls not only on their PCs but
also on Internet-enabled TVs that they may
eventually have at home.”
The spokesperson added that the transi-
tion of the Skype service to TVs was a
“logical” development, but did not say if
the company was working to add other TV
manufacturers to the list.
Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz
Islamic Sharia law,” he said in the fatwa.
“While one or other of the spouses is at
work, the other is chatting online with
someone else, wasting their time and flout-
ing the Sharia. This endangers the Muslim
family,” said al-Atrash.
The fatwa came after a study earlier this
week claimed that one in every five cases
of divorces in Egypt had been caused after
one of the partners started using social
networking sites such as Facebook.
Last month, Grand Mufti of Egypt Ali
Jumah condemned the practice of using
Quranic verses as the mobile ringtones
terming it as “improper” as it compromises
the sacredness of the religious scriptures.
The new panel will meet for the first time
on February 18 in Paris. The gathering will
also mark the launch of the International
Year for the Rapprochement of Cultures,
which will kick off with a round-table
discussion on the theme, “The Dialogue of
Cultures: New Avenues for Peace.”
“The objective of this International Year is
to help dissipate any confusion stemming
from ignorance, prejudice and exclusion
that create tension, insecurity, violence
and conflict,” Bokova emphasized.
The task, she said, will be to promote
mutual knowledge and to generate respect
for other cultures. “Exchange and dialogue
between cultures are the best tools for
building peace.”
“As more and more consumer electronic
devices are becoming more powerful and
[have] Internet connectivity, Skype is a
logical application to be embedded into
these devices,” she noted.
To facilitate the VoIP calls, both manufac-
turers will sell an add-on camera acces-
sory that has a microphone integrated with
the imaging device. Skype said it recom-
mends a 1Mbps (megabit per second)
“symmetric broadband connection”.
Campaigner dog has 3670
friends on Facebook
Kolkata: You’ve surely heard the
saying that a dog is a man’s best
friend. But in the case of Sputnik
Sylvells Mickeys Mustard, it is hu-
mans who want to be friends with
this 10-year old Chihuahua. As
of February 3, 2010, Sputnik has
3670 friends on social networking
website Facebook.
“My idea of launching Sputnik on
Facebook was for networking on
the animal and environmental is-
sues in an inclusive manner,” says
Kolkata-based animal rights activ-
ist Debasis Chakrabarti. Sputnik
is his pet.
And the campaign has been im-
mensely successful. Communi-
cating through
the profile of his cute pet, Debasis
has befriended people all over the
globe and made them aware of
several important issues.
Sputnik has been part of several
online campaigns on animal and
environmental issues.
Some of the groups on Facebook
this cute dog is a part of are: Say
“NO” to the slaughter of horses in
Australia, Stop Veterinary schools
from performing deadly opera-
tions on live animals, Save The
Panda, All Groups Unite To Stop
Animal
Cruelty, Stop the Live Pigeon
Variety
Shoots, Save the Whales, Sea
Shepherd Conservation Society
New Zealand, Global Anti-Hunting
Coalition (GAHC), Meatmean-
zmurder and Campaign to stop
Harrods selling real fur, besides
several others.
But what makes Sputnik so
unique? Aren’t there profiles of
other
animals on social networking
websites?
“There are dog, cat and other pet
profiles on several networking
sites, but none of them campaign
in the first person and none of
them have such a large number of
online friends,” Debasis says.
“Many of Sputnik’s online friends
put his campaigns on their pro-
files in other networking sites like
Orkut, thus creating a snowball-
ing effect,” he adds.
And his friends are so impressed
by the cute little dog that some
even
send him messages, poems and
jokes.
Sputnik joined Facebook on
September 20, 2009 and made
his 1000th friend as quickly as
on October 21. He now has over
3600.
Arnab Nandy
27
Indian

28 Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian

Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz 29

Indian
Variety

iPhone application Hindu gods on US

on ‘Ganesha’
Mumbai: Balaji Telefilms, which had re-
postage stamps
cently announced its entry into the digital An Atlanta, US based company headed by
space, has launched its first iPhone appli- an Indian American has launching a series of
cation named ‘Ganesha Stories’ under its legally valid custom-made postage stamps
New Media initiative. featuring the pictures of Hindu gods and
icons.
With the launch of the application, Balaji
Telefilms is expanding its presence in the The first of these 44 cent stamps featuring
internet and mobile space to cover the Sri Krishna, Shiva-Parvati, Lakshmi, Lord
growing segment. Venkateshwara, Murugan, Vinayaka and Sai
Baba have been issued by usa-postage.com
The Ganesha iPhone application allows last month.
consumers to have access to the Elephant
God on the move. Aartis and stories revolv- The company made use of a six-year-old US
ing around Lord Ganesha will be available Postal Service (USPS) rule that permits issue
at the click of a button with this application. of customised postages to launch the series.
The facility has been used by a number of
Says Balaji Telefilms joint MD Ekta Kapoor, “Mobile entertainment is a growth area for us. people to make individualised stamps.
We are focusing on creating content for mobile phones. Delivering quality mobile enter-
tainment is becoming possible with improved phones like iPhone and better networks.” “Customised postage sheets are ideal for
giving as gift items. Indian community living
Balaji Telefilms’ New Media division was set up to expand and capitalise on its creative in the US can order online as a gift item,”
and production facilities to cover the mobile and internet space. In the mobile space, the company vice president Ennar Chilakapati
team has started creating original content in audio and video format, deploying and mar- told the media.
keting the same across all major mobile networks.
“These postages have not been issued by the US Postal Service, but these are as good
“Over the last year Balaji Telefilms has evolved from being a leader in the television and as stamps and are legally valid. We do not call them stamps. We call them postages. But
film production to creating a strong footprint in the online and mobile VAS space,” said these can be used as any other normal stamp,” a USPS spokesman said.
Balaji Telefilms group CEO Puneet Kinra.
The Hindu gods follow the tradition of ‘Sunny Funnies’, a series of stamps featuring
“The mobile entertainment space has assumed great significance today and we plan to popular cartoon characters such as Calvin and Hobbes and Archie conceptualised by the
focus extensively on the same to address the current consumers as well as the evolving USPS.
market of 3G content both in India and internationally.”

WEEKENDCUISINE

MASALA CHANA
Recipe by Ruby Dhillon

Ingredients:
• 2- Potatoes (small)
• 1cup- Chana (Chick peas soaked over
• night with water)
• 4- Green chillis
• 1tsp- Ginger paste
• 1tsp- Garlic paste
• 1tsp- Jeera whole(Cumin)
• 1tsp- Red chilli powder
• 1tsp- Garam masala
• 1tbs- Anardana powder
• 1tbs- Dhania powder (Coriander)
• 1tbs- Cumin powder
• 2- Tomatoes (big and chopped)
• Salt according to taste
• 1/2cup- Chopped coriander
• 1- Lemon
• 2tbs- Oil
Method:
• Boil potatoes, peel and cut them into
halved and keep aside.
• Heat oil in a wok add ginger, garlic paste
and when it is brown then add slited green
chillis, coriander powder, cumin powder,
red chilli powder, Salt and add chopped
tomatoes, stir fry them until the masala is
cooked.
• Add the pre soaked Chana(Chick peas) to
the masala, cover and cook with two cups
of water for 20minutes or until they are
cooked.
• In the other pan heat oil add jeera whole
and allow the jeera to reeden then add
Anardana powder and Potatoes. Fry the
Potatoes until they are brown in colour.
• Mix potatoes with Chana masala.
• Serve hot with a dash of lemon on it and
chopped Coriander.

30 Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian

Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz 31

Indian
Advertisement

New Zealand Indian Central Association (Inc.)

PO Box 1941 - Wellington, New Zealand

President: Ratilal Champaneri Gen Secretary: Veer Khar

Phone: 021 383 859 Phone: 0274 417 654
Email: president@nzindians.org.nz Email: secretary@nzindians.org.nz

(Advert Sponsored By Basra Family Trust)

32 Indian Weekender | February 12, 2010 | www.iwk.co.nz