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VOL 12 ISSUE 08 ● NEW YORK ● MARCH 02 - MARCH 08, 2018 ● ENQUIRIES: 646-247-9458 www.theindianpanorama.news Indian government introduces law to impound properties of Trump calls for a comprehensive Fugitive Economic Offenders approach to Gun Laws NEW DELHI (TIP): Stung by a spate of Republicans and Democrats alike taken by surprise cases of financial plundering of Indian WASHINGTON (TIP): President Donald Financial institutions Trump called for speedy and substantial by unscrupulous changes to the nation's gun laws, criticizing people like Vijay lawmakers in a White House meeting for Mallya and more being too fearful of the National Rifle recently, Nirav Modi, Association to take action. government of India In a freewheeling, televised session on has decided to tighten Wednesday,February 28, that stretched for an The fugitive Diamond merchant Nirav noose around fugitive hour, Trump rejected both his party's Modi in his New York Store on Madison economic offenders. incremental approach and its legislative Avenue. File photo The Cabinet on contd on Page 32 Thursday, March 1, President Donald Trump (right) speaking to approved the Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill that provides for lawmakers on having a comprehensive law confiscating all assets of absconding fraudsters and loan addressing gun violence in schools, at the defaulters to recover dues. White House on February 28, 2018 contd on Page 32 Photo / courtesy CNN President’s longest-serving and 23rd Olympic Winter Games at PyeongChang end on a bright note, closest aide Hope Hicks quits as Norway heads tally with a record number of medals as WH communications chief Ivanka Trump was cynosure of all eyes at the closing ceremony BY PRABHJOT SINGH IN WASHINGTON (TIP): PYEONGCHANG Hope Hicks, one of Donald Trump's longest-serving PYEONGCHANG, SOUTH KOREA (TIP): and trusted aides, on The curtains were finally rung down on the March 1, announced her 23rd Olympic Winter Games at PyeongChang resignation as the on Sunday, February 25, after a glittering and powerful communications impressive ceremony that saw athletes from director, in a major blow all participating nations dancing their hearts to the US President and out to the beats of music. The Olympic flag the embattled White was ceremoniously handed over to Mayor of House amidst the Beijing for holding the 2022 Olympic Winter Hope Hicks has resigned as White intensifying inquiry into Games there. After Sochi (2014), Olympic House communications director in alleged Russian meddling Winter Games continue to be confined to in the 2016 election. Eurasia. Not only that, next summer Olympic view of a Trump's reported rebuke Norway's gold medalists Ingvild Flugstad Oestberg, Astrid Uhrenholdt for her testimonybefore the House contd on Page 13 Jacobsen, Ragnhild Haga and Marit Bjeorgen pose on the podium after the Games will also be in Asia, in Tokyo, Japan, in Intelligence Committee cross-country women's 4x5km relay at the PyeongChang. Photo / Courtesy CNN 2022. contd on Page 34 QUEEN OF SILVER SCREEN SRIDEVI CREMATED WITH STATE HONORS MUMBAI(TIP): Bollywood diva Sridevi was on February 28 cremated with full state honors, mourned by millions of fans, at the Vile Parle crematorium. Sridevi's filmmaker husband Boney Kapoor performed the last rites at the ceremony. contd on Page 32

Thousands of grieving fans gathered in Mumbai on Wednesday, February 28 to pay respects to Sridevi, the iconic Bollywood actress who drowned accidentally in a Dubai hotel bathtub on February 24. Photo courtesy Hindustan Times

104-02, 120th Street, S. Richmond Hill, NY 11419 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 2 ADVERTISEMENT FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 NEW YORK 3 Jugaad Culture is the Best Improvisation in Corporate India, but it can’t take the place of established systems, says Harvard Business School Dean Nitin Nohria NEW YORK CITY, NY (TIP): Indian CEOs are best at improvisation or jugaad culture which is unique as well as remarkable, said Professor Nitin Nohria, Dean of Harvard Business School. Prof. Nohria was speaking at the second 'New India Lecture' series at the Indian consulate in New York on February 26. Eminent journalist Bobby Ghosh moderated the session. In his brief welcome address Consul General Ambassador Sandeep Chakraborty explained the significance of the lecture series, which will be held on fourth Monday of every month. "We are exchanging visions for creating a new India - India of our dreams", he said. Speaking on 'Doing Business in India - The Good and the Bad' Professor Nohria touched upon all aspects of corporate culture in India. Seen in the picture, from L to R: Bobby Ghosh, Dr. Nitin Nohria, and Consul General Sandeep "Findings of a study on how Indian CEOs Chakraborty practice leadership are very compelling and connect with my own experiences. The thing that Indian CEOs are best at is improvisation or jugaad as we call it. This is the unique quality in India, it's a remarkable capacity", he Consul General Sandeep Chakraborty in his said. But he also explained why jugaad can't opening remarks said, "We are exchanging visions for creating a new India - India of our take the place of established systems. "Too dreams". often, our conversations tend to focus on the extremes. It's like punditry on the Indian think of the business itself as their Parivaar." cricket team. They're either so good that can't "For many Indian business owners, these get beaten or they're in their worst form. We are people whose mission for the company is need to be able to focus on the middle. So, my more than just to create shareholder value. comments on jugaad culture should not be American leaders are preoccupied with misunderstood as pessimism. But then, jugaad creating shareholder value. In India, the firm cannot take the place of established systems is seen by most people as an instrument for and processes either", he further added. society", he further explained. Professor Nohria also explained how the The event was followed by a Q&A corporate culture of USA is different from session. The next 'New India Lecture' India's. "In the US, the relationship between series will be held on March 26 where employers and employees is very Hussain Haqqani, who served as Pakistan's transactional. In India, so many family ambassador to the United States from 2008- businesses dominate the Indian landscape that 2011, will deliver the lecture. The response the employer- employee relationship becomes to the lecture was tremendous, with a one of familiarity. They (employer) begin to roomful attendance. A view of the gathering Dr. Urmilesh Arya Inaugurated as AIA National President Congressman Tom Suozzi wows Indian Heritage, culture and Indian American community

HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): 50- year old Association of Indians in America organized an impressive Inauguration ceremony for National President Dr. Urmilesh Arya on February 25th, 2018 at Auntuns by Minar in Hicksville. The AIA has plans to celebrate the 50th anniversary of AIA under the presidentship of Dr. Arya on October 20, 2018. Speaking on the occasion, Congressman Tom Suozzi praised Dr. Yashpal Arya and Dr. Urmilesh Arya for their promotion of Indian heritage and culture and their valuable contribution to community.He said he was deeply impressed with the vibrant Indian community.He had a word of appreciation for the rich Indian heritage and culture and Prof. Sridhar presented a copy of his book "Ananya-A Portrait of India" The Committee. L-R Nalini Shah, Neelam Modi, Usha Bhansal, Sunil advised the gathering that it was "very to Congressman Tom Suozzi. Seen in the picture, from L to R: Mukul Modi, Indu Jaiswal, Shashi Shah, Urmilesh Arya, Tom Suozzi, Sunil important that you must maintain heritage Arya, Yashpal Arya, Shashi Shah, Urmilesh Arya, Tom Suozzi, Nirmal Mehra, Sushma Kotahwala, Ram Khanna, Ravi Bhooplapur, Buddhdev and culture and must stand for your rights. Matoo, Prof. Shridhar Manwar, Dr. Gilja, Indu Gajwani Though it is the tough job, but it can be done with your strenuous work". Dr. Urmilesh Arya said she would do her can do for it". better choice than Dr. Urmilesh Arya to lead Congressman said he was all set to visit best to take the 50-year-old representative Earlier, Dr. Narinder Kukar, the senior the celebrated Association of Indians in India in the first week of April where he organization of Indian Americans in the US to community leader who is associated with a America. would learn firsthand about India's heritage greater heights. She said that her vision is to number of community organizations and was The outgoing President Dr. Shashi Shah and culture and interact with various sections bring all Asian Indian community together president of AIA a long time ago, introduced handed over the gavel to Dr. Urmilesh Arya, of society. He spoke of the strong bonds of and give the torch of AIA to younger Dr. Urmilesh Arya as a person who has always signifying passing on the authority to the new friendship between the "oldest democracy of generation to maintain our heritage and been passionate about preserving Indian president. The Committee for 2018-2019 was the world and the largest democracy of the culture for future generations. heritage and culture even as she championed introduced by Elected President Dr Urmilesh world" and said this friendship needed to be Dr. Arya ended her speech with "Do not the cause of the Indian community on Arya. strengthened further. expect from your Association, see what you political level. He said there could not be a contd on page 6 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 4 INDIANS ABROAD FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018

Indian American Dr. Hiral Tipirneni wins Democratic Primary Electionfor the 8th Indian Origin female CEO joins Congressional District of Arizona Commonwealth Enterprise & Dr. Hiral Tipirneni is considered to be the strongest Investment Council Advisory Board nominee the Democrats have fielded in years CWEIC is organiser of Commonwealth Business Forum, April 2018, London LONDON (TIP): Award winning London- communications partner for on-going based global strategist, director and CEO activities. Natasha Mudhar has officially been appointed Sterling and Natasha are renowned for its to the Advisory Board for Commonwealth work in being the first international ARIZONA (TIP): Indian American Dr. Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC), communications consultancy to take Hiral Tipirneni has won the special an organisation facilitating trade and Bollywood global. Some of the hero Democratic primary election for the 8th investment throughout the 53 states of the campaigns she has spearheaded include Pad Congressional District of Arizona, defeating Commonwealth and supporting private sector Man, Toilet Ek Prem Katha, Dangal, the IIFAs her only rival Brianna Westbrook.Tipirneni companies and governments to promote in the UK to name but a few. will face Debbie Lesko, who won the economic activity. Natasha is also the India Director of the Republican primary by beating 11 candidates, India is the Commonwealth's most UN's Global Goals campaign, launched by in the April 24 special general election. populous member and has been a key member filmmaker Richard Curtis to popularise the The seat became vacant after GOP since Independence in 1947. As the world's Sustainable Development Goals globally to incumbent Rep. Trent Franks resigned largest democracy,India plays an increasingly end poverty, reduce inequalities and tackle following a sexual misconduct allegation. He important role on the world stage and is set to climate change. She was also part of the team represented the 8th district for 14 years before play a key role in the upcoming to launch one of India's largest public health resigning on December 8, 2017. Commonwealth Heads of Government campaigns to eliminate filaria in India by "I think we won because our message was Meeting (CHOGM), taking place in in London 2020. really connecting with voters, resonating," for the first time in 20 years. The Commonwealth announcement is the Tipirneni told The Arizona Republic after the The CWEIC will run the Commonwealth latest addition to a long-standing commitment Associated Press called the race in her favor."I Business Forum, to be held on 16th-18th April of Natasha to work on some of the most think they are looking for someone who in London. The event forms a unique platform relevant campaigns. Whether it's taking brings something like my skill set to the table, for dialogue, bringing together a range of Bollywood global, be breaking the Internet somebody who is ready to work with people industries and economies and will be with over 100 million views for the explosive Natasha Mudhar is an award-winning London release of the remake of Spice Girls Wannabe from all backgrounds and really focus on organised alongside CHOGM. With the based strategist solving the problems at hand." government supporting enterprise and video for the UN's Global Goals to empower Tipirneni, an emergency room physician business in the country, Indian business will disciplinary, international business and females or lobbying governments to end world by profession, gives the Democrats a ray of also be an essential part of the communications consultancy Sterling Media, hunger to launching iconic British brands hope in the Congressional District which has Commonwealth Business Forum. which has also announced a partnership with internationally, Natasha is recognised across been a stronghold of the Republicans for a With offices in India and UK, Natasha is the Commonwealth Enterprise and continents as a global campaign expert and long time. also the CEO & MD of the awarding multi- Investment Council, as the official global entrepreneur in her sectors. While the Democratic primary was essentially a two-candidate race, on the Indian American Judge Ravi "R.K" Sandill is Indian American Veena Sud launches crime Republican side there were a dozen candidates. running for the Supreme Court of Texas Tipirneni is considered to be the strongest miniseries 'Seven Seconds' on Netflix nominee the Democrats have fielded in years. HOUSTON, TX(TIP): Indian NEW YORK (TIP) : Indian Franks did not have a Democratic challenger American Judge Ravi "R.K" American script writer and in the last two election cycles. Sandill is running for the filmmaker Veena Sud launched Tipirneni runs on the issues of affordable Supreme Court of Texas, Place her Netflix miniseries Seven healthcare, strengthening the economy, 4. Seconds on February 23rd. It is retirement security, quality education, and Sandill, who currently serves a 10-episode investigative government accountability.She also endorses as the Judge of the 127th Civil drama series based on the "an accountable immigration system District Court in Harris County, accidental death of a black teen providing a clear, affordable path to is the first Asian American to in the days after Ferguson. citizenship for those who qualify and have run for the position in Texas. Sud, who was born to Indian earned it." Sandill is the only South parents in Toronto and moved She officially announced her candidacy on Asian on the Bar in Harris to Ohio at the age of two, is July 19, months before the staunch County. He has been serving the better recognized as the conservative Franks was practically pushed position since 2009. director of the American out of Congress by the House leadership Harris County, which version of The Killing, which following revelations that he had asked two Sandill is the first Asian American to includes Houston, is the most was first aired on AMC and run for the position in Texas. female congressional staffers to bear his populous county in Texas, with later on Netflix. children as surrogate mothers. a population of more than 4.5 million. Seven Seconds is a crime The Indian American said she is running "I am running for the Supreme Court of Texas, Place 4, to restore an drama series that unveils, because she wanted to take on special independent voice to our state's highest judicial body and to focus on the through investigation, an interests in Washington. "I believe in solving rule of law, rather than a fringe ideological agenda," Sandill said on his accident involving a black teen Seven Seconds on Netflix problems and improving lives, which is all campaign website. and a white police officer who about people, not partisanship," Tipirneni "The Texas Constitution tells us that all political power is inherent in was rushing to the hospital with his pregnant wife. The hit and run said while announcing her candidacy. "That's the people. Yet, the Supreme Court of Texas is increasingly out of touch case is covered up in the aftermath of violent protests that ensued the what I did in the emergency room, and I'm with the needs of everyday Texans," said Sandill. shooting of an African American in Ferguson. running for Congress to do the same." Established in 1840, the Supreme Court of Texas comprises a Chief Sud is touching on a highly contentious subject and her life as the Tipirneni came to America from India with Justice and eight Associate Justices. Each judge is elected for a term of daughter of Indian parents will help her in narrating the story in an her family at the age of three. According to five years which is renewable. If elected, Sandill would replace John P. unbiased manner. According to Sud, the plot of the movie flashed in her campaign website, she earned her Devine, 59, of Harris County, who has been holding the position since her mind in the spring of 2015 after a series of shooting events medical degree through an accelerated, 2013. Sandill is the son of immigrant parents from India. According to involving black Americans and white police officers. It is competitive program at Northeast Ohio his campaign website, his father, Retired Lt. Col. Brij Sandill, served in aforethought about what can happen if another black man or teen Medical University. Hiral chose to pursue the U.S. Army and the U.S. Air Force for a combined 28 years. gets killed by a police officer. In 2014 and 2015, America witnessed the emergency medicine because of the wide Following high school in England, Ravi Sandill attended the murder of Michael Brown, Freddie Gray and Tamir Rice, a 12-year- variety of challenges it presented, and it University of Texas at Austin, where he obtained a degree in old kid, all African Americans, in the hands of white police officers. allowed her to be the first point of contact for government and served as a summer intern for President Bill Clinton's According to Sud, the protests and the anger made her write the patients. She has served the Phoenix area for Council of Economic Advisors. Sandill went on to earn his law degree series. more than 20 years as an emergency room from the University of Houston Law Center, where he was an active "So, I wanted to examine race and violence in America, especially physician, cancer research advocate and, participant in the law school's moot court team and an editor on the as a person of color myself, but I also wanted to look at it in a most recently,on the board of directors of the Houston Journal of International Law. different way," she said."I picked the car accident very specifically … Maricopa Health Foundation, which supports Sandill first ran for judge in 2008, when he prevailed over a 28-year it is not a hair trigger decision about pulling the trigger; it's making the county's public health care delivery incumbent to become a judge of the 127th. a decision over the course of those seven seconds to leave a child in system. Read full story on www.theindianpanorama.news the snow. Read full story on www.theindianpanorama.news THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 ADVERTISEMENT 5 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 6 NEW YORK FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018

CONTD FROM PAGE 3 Dr. Urmilesh Arya South Asian Leaders Recognized

Inaugurated as AIA National FLUSHING, NY (TIP): Several South Asian leaders of President the Queens Borough Community were recognized Here is the list of office bearers. Vice Presidents: Dr. for their services to their Naresh Bhasin (FL) Nalini Shah (NJ), Ram Khanna communities as well as for (NY) Dr. Sunil Mehra (NY); Treasurer: Mrs. Neelam their contribution for the Modi (NY), Gen, Secretary: Nilima Madan (NY), betterment of neighborhoods Members at Large: Hansa Ashar (CA), Dr. Farita and for promoting Ahmed (FL), Nishi Mallik (FL), Dr. Shobha Gupta environment and quality of (FL), Mr. Akshay Patel (IL), Ashish Sen (IL), Lucy life at a crowded ceremony Pandey (IL), Salil Mishra (IL), Santosh Pandey (IL), attended by many elected Dr. Suresh Gupta (MD), Ravi Mehrotra (NJ), Roopam officials which included Jain (NJ), Arish Sahani (NY), Dr. Asha Nayak (NY), Senator Roxanne Dr. Babu Jasty (NY), Dr. Bal Gilja (NY), Dr. Deepak Persaud,Senator Leroy Nandi (NY), Dr. Himanshu Patel (NY), Indu Jaiswal Comrie,Assemblyman David (NY), Ravi Bhooplapur(NY), Dr. Sai Veeracmachani Weprin, Assemblywoman Nily (NY), Sunil Modi (NY), Sushma Kotahwala (NY), Dr. Rozic,Council Member Peter Usha Bhansal (NY) , Kamlesh Saini (WI), Indu Koo, Council Member Costa Gajwani (NY). Contantines and Council Malini Shah and other Honorees with elected officials. From L to R: Assemblyman David Weprin, Bobby Kalotee, on behalf of County Executive Member Paul A Vallone. Assemblywoman Nily Rozic, Council Member Peter Koo, Council Member Costa Contantines, Laura Curran, presented citations to the outgoing Amongst those recognized Council Member Paul Vallone, Senator Roxanne Persaud. President Dr. Shashi Shah and the new President Dr. were Indian American South Urmilesh Arya. Asian leaders Harbachan General Assembly, Queens Vallone. She Volunteered and running a successful jewelry AIA presented gifts to Congressman Tom Suozzi. Singh and Malini Shah. District Attorney's Advisory served as representative for business, Malini is the founder The Inauguration was attended by around 150 Harbachan Singh is a Council, Committee Chair of NYC Speaker Melissa Mark- of Nritya Kala Kendra, Inc., persons. Prominent among them were Congressman former Chairman of the Community Board 8 and First Vivirito to the Museum of Arts and Indo-American Arts and Mr. Tom Souzzi and community leaders Boby Kalotee, United Nations Headquarters Vice President of Queens and Design Board of Trustees Cultural Forum. a cultural Kamlesh Mehta, Narender Kukar, Nirmal Matoo, Prof. Committee on Contracts and Hospital Center's Advisory in Manhattan and continues to organization dedicated to Shridhar, Dr. Manwar, Virender Bhalla, Mr. Satnam since his retirement has been a Board. His activity involves volunteer and serve as a preserving and promoting the Parhar, Gobind Munjal, Gunjan Rastogi, Neerja civic activist in Queens for the giving testimony at the NYC representative for the NYC ancient and modern arts of Kashu, Dr. Ajay Jain, Dr. Ajay Lodha, Dr. Jagdish past several years. He served Council Hearings, addresses at Speaker Corey Johnson to the India. Through classes, Gupta, Dr. Vinod Bhansal, and Prof. Indrajit S Saluja, as a President of several Churches and government Museum of Arts and Design. workshops, lectures, visiting Publisher and Editor of The Indian Panorama. organizations including the agencies or institutions and Malini also serves on The artist programs, Nritya Kala The program got off to a start with national Sikh American Friendship fighting for the Queens Clinton Democratic Club, Kendra presents numerous anthems of the two countries being sung byHema Foundation, the Queens Civic residents vis a vis the Executive Board as educational programs all Sardana and Veena Sardana. Invocation by Geeta Congress, the Saul Weprin authorities. He is a recipient Membership Chair. around New York City and Sethia, dance by Miss India Riya Kaur,songs by Democratic Club, the of numerous accolades for his She is a prominent and well abroad and has assisted with Mohan Wanchoo, with 10-year-old Manav on Tabla, Holocaust Center at the work and Contribution -known community leader event such as "Year of India" and songs on Karaoke sung by Jyoti Gupta, Indu Queens borough Community Malini Shah is Community who is currently President of at Queens College and Gajwani, Roopam Maini and Ratna Bhalla, were star College and on the Boards of and Cultural Liaison for a diamond company, International children's Day to attractions of the celebrations. Queens Borough President's Council Member Paul A. Difference Inc. In addition to name a few. HOTSTAR All Set to Stream IPL Cricket Matches for US Fans

BY BABITA SHARMA. Hotstar streamingof the IPL that starts in April 2018 is set at $9.99 per month, the first BROOKLYN, NY (TIP): Cricket fans are in month being free,the viewers can enjoy all IPL for a surprise as for the first time, Hotstar, matches with commentary in six different India's largest premium live streaming service, languages, including English, Hindi, Tamil, which was launched in the U.S. in September, Telugu, Kannada and Bengali. Harbhajan will be beaming live matches from the Vivo Singh Bhajji, however, suggested including Indian Premier League (IPL), an eight-team commentary in Punjabi language also, which game, since its inception in the year 2008. he said was spoken by a large number of On February 24 afternoon, Hotstar hosted an Punjabis in the US and Canada. event named "VIVO IPL HOTSTAR This promises for an Immersive Virtual CRICFEST", at MatchPoint in Gravesend, Reality experience that would enable the fans Brooklyn, in association with event partner, to come closer to the game within the comfort CricClubs. of their homes and would also allow the fans to Ms Ispita Dasgupta, President, Hotstar relive important core moments during any International at Star India presented the game. content and features of Hotstar platform. It "We are interested in the casual cricket fans was a unique and engaging experience for here in the USA, and we are constantly Indian diaspora cricket fans settled in the USA. innovating to make their experience engaging Hotstar, a multi-digital platform will allow At the press conference. From L to R: Gaurav Kapoor, Sports commentator, Ispita Dasgupta and immersive", concluded Ms Ispita crickets enthusiasts to see their favorite teams President, Hotstar International at Star India, Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh "Bhajji" Dasgupta, President of Hotstar International. and players in action on their mobile device Hotstar, India's largest premium streaming nationwide anytime, anywhere. with the former detailing his experience at the streaming partner of VIVO IPL 2018 in the platform for Indian TV shows, movies and live "Hotstar aims to become a platform that highest levels in England and in the IPL before U.S." sports, is now also available in the U.S. and connects and celebrates the South Asian retiring in 2010; and the latter shedding light "It's incredible to see such passion for cricket Canada. A subsidiary of Star India and 21st diaspora by bringing rich and diverse on his experience as a cricketer, and who is still halfway across the world," said Harbhajan Century Fox, Hotstar was launched in India in entertainment across Indian movies, TV shows actively associated with, and will play in the Singh, former captain of Mumbai Indians and 2015 and became the fastest app to reach a and live sports. It gives us great pleasure to IPL with Chennai Super Kings though earlier, current member of Chennai Super Kings. million downloads within a week of going live. bring VIVO IPL 2018 on Hotstar for cricket fans for 10 years, he played for Mumbai. "VIVO IPL 2018 will be an exciting season for The platform offers a bouquet of rich and in North America," said Ipsita Dasgupta, "VIVO IPL is, undoubtedly, the most all cricket fans and enthusiasts, including diverse content encompassing the latest President - Strategy and Incubation, and exciting cricket property in our country and those in America, who can now participate in movies, popular TV shows, documentaries and Hotstar International at Star India. brings together the best of cricket talent from the same experience as millions of Indians live sports. By delivering premium, on-demand "Leveraging our technology, consumer insight across the world in an intense league," said back home do through Hotstar." content across devices and in multiple and expertise in cricket coverage, Hotstar will Anil Kumble, former Team India player, The event allowed the attendees to taste languages, Hotstar ensures South Asians deliver an immersive and engaging experience captain and coach. "Cricket fans in the U.S. street food from each of the eight Indian cities across the world are never too far from their combined with greater convenience to our deserve to watch the sport on a platform that in the league and enjoy live entertainment that favorite entertainment. Hotstar can be North American audience." understands their love for the game and is included, from kids and adults alike, testing accessed through us.hotstar.com, The event was graced by cricket legends powered by technology that focuses on their skills in the batting cage and then getting ca.hotstar.com or via iOS AppStore, Google Anil Kumble andHarbhajan Singh "Bhajji" delivering a great consumer experience. I'm a virtual experience of a cricket stadium Playstore, Roku, Chromecast, Amazon Fire, who interacted with the fans and the audience, truly excited that Hotstar is the official digital amongst other form of activities. and Android TV. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 NEW YORK 7 Second Drishti Collegiate Conference Explores Hindu Identity and the Impact of Hindu Scientific Achievements on World Cultures

NEW YORK (TIP): "Hindus are seekers of truth," remarked Maitreyee Kale, president of Hindu Students Council's (HSC) chapter at Stony Brook University, as she kicked off a panel discussion on Hindu identity. These words captured the general theme of the conference as it explored the meaning of being a Hindu, misconceptions about Hindu identity as well as the remarkable impacts of Hindu scientific discoveries on world cultures. Students from New York University and Stony Brook University,along with members of the HSC National Team engaged in a lively interactionon Hindu practices, traditions and texts that are most appealing to today's Hindu youth. The panelists shared their experiences of growing up in a western society and how they managed to balance their Hindu and non- Hindu identities while staying rooted in their Dr. Alok Kumar, Distinguished Teaching cultural ethos. They also interacted with Professor of Physics at SUNY Oswego and the Student panel on Hindu identity and practices conference participants on questions such as author of "Sciences of Ancient Hindus" how to handle common misconceptions about delivered the conference keynote address ancient Hindus in his Liber Abaci, by Dr. Kumar's talk and examples. Varun Rao, a Hinduism, how to positively engage with non- delivered the conference keynote address. admitting that he had strictly applied the student at Stony Brook summarized his Hindus to explain Hindu practices and Utilizing years of research and quoting Indian method and combined that with his perspective as follows: "Initially,I did not expect symbols, how concepts such as yoga numerous non-Hindu literary sources, calculations to come up with the Fibonacci to take the HSC Drishti conference seriously as andAyurveda are important Hindu Professor Kumar told a fascinating story of sequence and other works. To quote I did, but I can honestly say I left the conference contributions, and many other topics. how medieval Muslim and Europeans Fibonacci: "...the art of the nine Indian with a changed perspective on how Ancient "I'd never seen a stage where people my age scholars and writers openly acknowledged figures, the introduction and knowledge of Hindu Civilization has made an everlasting could weigh in on some of the most pressing and credited several important mathematical the art pleased me so much above all else..." impact on mankind." Indeed, HSC's topics facing Hinduism today," shared Kavindra achievements to ancient Similarly, Copernicus, while writing his De conferences and events aim to bring out such Sahabir, an attendee from Stony Brook Hindus.Unfortunately, today's math and Revolutionibus Orbium Coelestiumused the important discussions and exchanges about University. "I was also impressed with the science classes fail to tell this important story Hindu mathematical system versus the Hindu heritage and culture and provide the members of the panel and the way they carried for the benefit of today's students and to Roman one. youth an opportunity to understand their themselves throughout the conference."Sai promote multicultural harmony.For example, Dr. Kumarshared numerous other examples Hindu identity and its connections with the Chaluvadi, a panelist and co-president of the Sa'id Al Andalusi, a famousEleventh Century and ideas of such contributions. However, he rest of the world. Hindu Students Council (HSC) HSC chapter at NYU also added: "Learning Muslim judge and philosopher in Spain, lamented that this information is just the tip is the largest Hindu youth organization in North from their perspectives helped me view various ranked Hindus at the top of all the world of the iceberg and that there are over 30 America. Started in 1990, HSC provides college components of the religion differently, cultures in terms of scientific achievements, million unstudied ancient Indian students and young professionals the opportunity broadening my understanding and making me concluding that "...the Hindus, as known to all manuscripts that are in dire conditions, to learn about Hindu heritage and culture, as well aware of certain issues that Hindus face." nations for many centuries, are the essence of though some private and government as advocates for issues impacting Hindus. For Dr. Alok Kumar, Distinguished Teaching wisdom, the sources of fairness and institutions are attempting to preserve and information, please visit Professor of Physics at SUNY Oswego and the objectivity." In another example, Leonardo translate them for future generations. www.hindustudentscouncil.org or contact us at author of "Sciences of Ancient Hindus" Fibonacci credited the mathematical genius of Conference attendees were mesmerized by [email protected].

challenging yet exiting times for Indian programmers that so Zee TV’s New Family Quiz Show Attracts Top Brands far have depended upon the first generation for consumption. Efforts like Zee US originals give us that opportunity that not NEW YORK (TIP): Bolstering its debut this past ability to answer quickly and more importantly - their only expands our reach but also engage the existing viewer Saturday, Zee TV's new family quiz show Americas ability to work as a team. Only the fastest, most well- more deeply. Smartest Family (ASF) has seem to have attracted rounded family will get to take home the crown. We are extremely happy and feel privileged to have the some of the top advertisers and brand names Round one consists of four questions, with a support of these brands for the show. They share and support servicing the South Asian demographic. toss deciding which family goes first. our vision for the community. 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There are no deductions for wrong answers until https://www.zeeoriginals.com/americas-smartest-family/ of local and relevant programming for the community.Zee TV round three and four, when a mistake can cost a team 100 About Zee Network: Zee Entertainment Enterprises has taken the much-awaited initiative to program locally points for every incorrect answer. Limited is one of India's leading television media and sourced content for audiences in the US. ASF joins a growing As the game progresses, questions become increasingly entertainment companies. It is amongst the largest producers list of local programs developed by Zee TV that include difficult. By rounds three and four - each correct answer is and aggregators of Hindi programming in the world, with an "Married in 7 days", "Breakthrough", "Made in America" and worth 200 points. During the fifth and final round, the game extensive library housing over 222,000 hours of television "Those who Made It". takes a turn and host Zaid Ali spices things up by offering content. With rights to more than 3,818 movie titles from All shows are being developed and produced in the US and clues. If the team answers correctly without a clue, a foremost studios and of iconic film stars, ZEE houses the contain relevant content designed specifically to target the maximum of 1000 points is awarded. If the family choses to get world's largest Hindi film library. Through its strong presence evolving South Asian demographic. clues, each clue costs them 200 points. At the end of five worldwide, ZEE entertains over 1 billion viewers across 172 "For Kawan, it's important to continually connect with our rounds, scores may vary from -2400 to 5500. In the event of a tie, countries. consumer. The Kawan brand is specifically. Catering to the an extra tie-breaker round will identify the winner. About Zee TV USA: Zee TV USA was the first ever Hindi Desi audience living in the US and it is our endeavor to always In the first four episodes of the season, four families will General Entertainment channel to be launched in the US way support initiatives that drive locally sourced content", said compete against one another, accumulating points for every back in 1998. Since the start of the journey more than 2 Tim Tan, Managing Director of Kawan Foods. correct answer. The eight winning teams from those early decades ago, Zee now has 43 networks and full time dedicated Hosted by 23-year-old YouTube sensation Zaid Ali, contents will move onto the semi-finals until just two families work force across 5 different locations all across the North "America's Smartest Family" is a unique mashup of the remain. The winners of the semi-finals will make it to finals, America and Caribbean. Zee TV USA was the first Asian American household favorites "Family Feud" and "Jeopardy," for the ultimate face-off, where one family will be named channel to launch in HD. Zee TV was the first Hindi network to but with that special ZEE TV twist that celebrates its South "America's Smartest Family." be measured by Nielsen in the US, Zee TV is also the most Asian heritage. Complete with a diverse set of categories and "Nobody will dispute the fact that there is demographic shift widely available Hindi General Entertainment network on all a buzzer, each episode will feature five challenging in-studio in the South Asian Segment in USA. More than 35% of the major DTH, Cable, Telco and IPTV platforms with availability question rounds, testing pre-screened contestants on their market now reporting to be born in the United States, it is over 86 million US households. (Press Release) THE INDIAN PANORAMA 8 EDITORIAL FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 COMMENT AS I SEE IT Prof I.S.Saluja BEWARE Deja vu in Pakistan The run-up to the 2018 election bears an eerie similarity to the THE IRS events preceding the 2013 poll. The actors seeking to destroy Nawaz Sharif's political future are the same, with the addition IMPERSONATOR of the SC and Hafiz Saeed. By Sharat Sabharwal t is tax season. It is time to pay Disqualified from holding the office of Prime Minister last year taxes. And I hope all are by the Supreme Court, Nawaz Sharif has now been barred by I serious about the tax paying s the 2013 Pakistan election the same court from being the head of his party, PML (N). business. There are some who are approached, the security establishment Ostensibly a matter of corruption in high places, his more active than a conscientious Awas concerned at the prospect of a tax payer. It is the IRS Nawaz victory because of his popularity in disqualification has a strong subtext of civil-military tussle in impersonators. Come tax season, Punjab that carries more than 50 per cent seats Pakistan. and they become active. Their in the National Assembly. The anxiety modus operandi is to call and stemmed from Nawaz's tense relationship with create an impression that the his army chiefs during two tenures as Prime callers are genuine IRS officials. Minister, his bitterness against the army at his They introduce themselves as any treatment after the 1999 coup and repeatedly professional IRS official will, professed desire to promote better relations giving their ID, which, of course, with India. In 2011, Imran Khan, whose is not a real one. They will tell the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf had failed to make a person called that he has mark since its founding in 1996, appeared on committed a fraud on IRS and that the scene out of nowhere to relaunch his there are warrants of arrest. Many political career by opposing American drone are filled with fear and visions of strikes in Pakistani territory and corruption their being arrested and thrown in the ruling parties. The then DG, ISI, was behind bars. Something which they reported to be the architect of his sudden rise, never ever dreamed of. Also, the a move that subsequent events would prove to impersonator will instill greater be farsighted in filling the gap left by the fear by saying that because of the reluctance of the two major parties - PPP and offence committed, the called PML (N) - wiser with the experience of the person will face deportation. past, to collaborate with the army against each Again, many will shudder at the other. Closer to the election, Tahir ul Qadri, a thought of losing career and being Canada based cleric of Pakistan origin, landed banished from the country to face up to push for its postponement. However, an uncertain future back in the these machinations failed, and Nawaz won a Proxy ruler: Disqualified to be PM or party head, Nawaz Sharif remains the vote-getter. country he had come from. The third term with a comfortable majority in the impersonating IRS officials are election held in May, 2013. eerie similarity to the events preceding the Nawaz, being the vote getter, is indispensable experts at their job. It requires In this backdrop, the civil-military equation 2013 election. The actors seeking to destroy to the party. An efficient technocrat, Shahbaz nerves of steel not to be filled with under Nawaz was expected to be anything but Nawaz's political future are the same, with the complements Nawaz, but cannot replace him. fear over their threats, which smooth. Differences emerged quickly on addition of the Supreme Court and Pakistan's Deprived of the presidency of PML (N), Nawaz believe me, sound quite real. Musharraf's trial, policy on terrorism and terror brand ambassador, Hafiz Saeed. The threatens to lead it in the election in his relations with India. The army managed to army would be loath to see his return to power. individual capacity in the hope of ruling However, once they know they secure Musharraf's exit from Pakistan, The PPP has sought to exploit Nawaz's through a proxy, as he is doing now. If jailed, have succeeded in frightening a prevailed against Nawaz's misplaced policy of misfortunes for political gains in Punjab, but his loyalists could fight in his name. He thus guy they will ask for amount due dialogue with the anti-Pak terror groups and being an experienced party, would not go the dares the army to either go the whole hog and to be paid straightaway. And they systematically undermined his agenda to extent of playing the security establishment's stage a coup, inviting international have elaborate schemes to get the improve relations with India. game. That is not true of Imran. Egged on by opprobrium, or face the prospect of seeing him money from frightened guys. They Imran's agitation against the alleged rigging his ambition, he is blind to the army's design. rule, even if by proxy. do not give any time to the called of the 2013 election, which kept Nawaz on the Tahir ul Qadri is again around. The security The selective accountability that has person to think or consult back foot vis a vis the army, came a cropper establishment aims to deprive Nawaz of claimed Nawaz's head not only implies the somebody. Every year during the when a judicial commission ruled against him another victory by undermining him in departure of an individual from office, but can tax period we hear stories of in July 2015. However, the linkage of some Punjab. Hafiz Saeed's services have also been also target every politician, capable of winning people having been cheated. offshore companies to the Prime Minister's enlisted for good measure by releasing him popular mandate and consequently inclined to family, revealed in the Panama papers, gave from preventive detention. Though the chart out a course independent of the IRS has been at pains to warn Imran and his mentors another opportunity to Election Commission has not recognized his worldview of the army. Nawaz, after all, was people of these impersonators and target Nawaz. In July 2017, the Supreme Court party, Milli Muslim League, because of disqualified as per a Zia era constitutional cheats. They keep telling that IRS disqualified Nawaz from holding public office. opposition of the PML (N) government, he amendment requiring elected representatives will send notice if at all there is Significantly, the decision was based on the could be expected to put up independent to be 'sadiq' (truthful) and 'ameen' (righteous), something amiss with an income report of a six-member joint investigation candidates to erode Nawaz's vote. subjective criteria that can be used by the Deep tax return or if the department team, constituted by the court that included a Nawaz and his children face charges in an State to throw out anyone not in agreement wants a tax payer to make a representative each of the ISI and Military accountability court, with the sword of with them. The civil-military imbalance and payment. Yet, many fall a prey to Intelligence. Since these highly disciplined conviction and imprisonment hanging over the resulting dysfunctionality of the state that the wiles of these impersonators. individuals would not have approved the their head. Besides depriving him of the have become a curse for Pakistan and the report without a nod from the army leadership, presidency of his party, all decisions taken by region will get redressed essentially by I will advice readers of The the damning report, combined with the track him in that capacity since July 2017 have also opposition within Pakistan to the stranglehold Indian Panorama not to panic record of the Pakistan judiciary kowtowing to been declared null and void. However, counting of their army, with external pressure at best when such a call is received. A military dictators, had left little doubt about on his popularity in Punjab, which he hopes to playing a supportive role. Therefore, though a little caution and you will save the fate of the Prime Minister and was an boost by playing the victim card, Nawaz matter internal to Pakistan, the ongoing tussle your hard-earned dollars. indicator of provenance of the decision to oust refuses to desert the field. Attempts to cause and its outcome should be of interest to us. Good Luck! him. any major fissures in his party and wean away (The author is India's former High The run-up to the 2018 election bears an his brother, Shahbaz Sharif, have failed so far. Commissioner to Pakistan) THE INDIAN PANORAMA PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER: Prof. Indrajit S. Saluja Mohammad Shahzad, Zia Khan DELHI BUREAU CHIEF: Ashishpal Singh E-mail [email protected]; Phone: 646-247-9458 VICE PRESIDENT: Chitagam Saluja Nisha Rani CHANDIGARH: Manjit Sidhu www.theindianpanorama.news CHIEF EDITOR: Prof Indrajit S. Saluja Vaaho Photographers LUDHIANA: A.S. Arora, R.P.Sharma Published by Prof. Indrajit Saluja ASSISTANT EDITOR: Bidisha Roy Vijay Shah -Photo Journalist. GRAPHICS DIRECTOR: Om Parkash Malik DISTRIBUTOR : Sukhwinder Singh The Indian Panorama DIRECTOR ADMINISTRATION: Gauri Beri CORRESPONDENTS : P.O. Box No. 190067, South Richmond Hill, NY 11419, DISCLAIMER CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: SACRAMENTO: Parminder S. Aujla Tel: 646-247-9458 The Indian Panorama assumes no responsibility for the Baldev Singh / BJ Videos NEW YORK : Chitagam Email: [email protected] claims made in advertisements. We only sell space. Views published in the newspaper are those of the authors and do Gunjesh Desai / Masala Junction FRESNO: Tarlochan Singh DALLAS EDITION not necessarily reflect the views of the newspaper. All rights Jay Mandal, DALLAS: Harjit Dhesi, Amarjit Dhillon P.O. BOX 121695, ARLINGTON, TX 76012 are reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without Mohammad Jaffer/ SnapsIndia OVERSEAS CORRESPONDENTS Lovllien Kaurr, VP & Bureau Chief permission in writing from The Indian Panorama is prohibited. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 PERESPECTIVE 9 Primary task at Cong plenary: Rescuing the polity from the creeping authoritarianism

The greatest danger we face is Narendra Modi is using all the accruements of democracy to de-legitimize democracy's good practices and values, and, to turn all By Harish Khare its bad habits to make democratic arrangements look inadequate and he top Congress leaders are due to gather, in a fortnight unequal to the task of restoration of our from now, for their party's plenary session. Apart from national glory. Tconsecrating Rahul Gandhi's election as the party president, the gathering will need to undertake far more demands. The Congress, as the principal opposition party, has serious a task: they will have to perform a duty to start a an obligation to create conditions for robust counterpoises. conversation with the nation and to take the citizens into If nothing else, the country needs to be repeatedly educated confidence on how the entire political system is groaning about the whimsicality that has dictated the (mis) under the weight of one man - his whims, his fancies, his management of the economy, and how all the great projects - attitudes and his limitations. The Congress and its leaders like Make in India - stand in tatters; and, more importantly, need to make a case before the nation as to why the current whether the Congress has an answer to jobless growth and Illustration by Sandeep Joshi state of affairs is neither desirable nor acceptable. At the end whether the Congressmen can help the country find its way of this three-day gathering, the Congress should have given History of the last hundred years has out of a deepening agrarian crisis. the country a good enough reason to look beyond Narendra Notwithstanding the loud chanting of deshbhakti, and Modi, as and when the Lok Sabha elections get organized. taught us one simple lesson: personality balidaan mantras, it is the Opposition's task to inform the cults do introduce undesirable country that we stand isolated in our own backyard because It is already a matter of considerable imbalances in the body politic. we have needlessly and arrogantly alienated all our South dismay that otherwise decent officials, Personality cult produces very little Asian neighbors; and, the nation needs to be educated that India today is less safe than it was five years ago. The Congress educated aides and learned advisers have democratic good; it always ends up badly, acquiesced in the organized worship of a has to introduce the citizens to a new narrative that takes us even disastrously. away from this excessive preoccupation with national security man who grandiloquently pretends to and an unwarranted and unworkable flexing of muscles at know profoundly about everything, from and the experience to rescue us all from this quagmire of petty home and abroad. We are losing our national self-assurance gaming the examinations to disrupting vindictiveness being palmed off as a new normal. without making smaller nations in the neighborhood respect the economy, even without the benefit of We remain - for now - a constitutional democracy; but, all us. our constitutional arrangements stand diluted and all-out Then, there is a personality overload. A personality cult may a Harvard education, and making a virtue constitutional functionaries - be it the President of India or the have been "normalized" in New Delhi but it remains a of "hard work". From senior most Union Home Minister or External Affairs Minister -have been personality cult, with all its unhealthy demands on men and ministers to junior joint secretary, all find made to feel diminished. The Cabinet system of government institutions. It is already a matter of considerable dismay that themselves subscribing to this "daddy has been reduced to a joke that no longer invokes a laugh. The otherwise decent officials, educated aides and learned advisers country needs to be told that the fine architecture of checks have acquiesced in the organized worship of a man who knows best" syndrome, very much and balances is in serious jeopardy. grandiloquently pretends to know profoundly about reminiscent of the Narayan Datt Tiwari It is for the Congressmen to enlighten the citizens how all everything, from gaming the examinations to disrupting the hymns to Sanjay Gandhi during the the key relationships in our national scheme of things are economy,even without the benefit of a Harvard education, and Emergency days. being revised and reduced: first, the majority-minority making a virtue of "hard work". From senior most ministers to equation has been systematically reshaped and the secular junior joint secretary, all find themselves subscribing to this commitments stand eroded; second, the Centre-States federal "daddy knows best" syndrome, very much reminiscent of the Since it will be a political gathering, there will be plenty of equation has tipped dangerously in favor of New Delhi and the Narayan Datt Tiwari hymns to Sanjay Gandhi during the partisanship and mouthfuls of philippics against Narendra state governments are being reduced to whining tots; third, Emergency days. Modi, the BJP and the Sangh Parivar. But it would be a waste the State-Citizen balance has changed drastically, an all- History of the last hundred years has taught us one simple of time and resources if the Congressmen confine themselves intrusive Aadhaar arrangement is demanding compliance and lesson: personality cults do introduce undesirable imbalances to abuses; it will be an even greater farce and greater shame if surrender of privacy, and, we are beginning to look like a in the body politic. Personality cult produces very little the Congressmen were to engage in their familiar weakness misshapen authoritarian setup; then, we have the creeping democratic good; it always ends up badly, even disastrously. for sycophancy. Instead, they have to behave and speak as distortions in the Civil-Army relationship, with the Army in The greatest danger we face is Narendra Modi is using all responsible and reasonable keepers of the best of the danger of losing its institutional rectitude; and, lastly, the the accruements of democracy to de-legitimize democracy's constitutional values. As those who claim to be committed to virtual governmental takeover of the electronic media. All good practices and values, and, to turn all its bad habits to the Idea of India and who subscribe to the Nehruvian virtues, these key equations are off the keel. And, our citizens need to make democratic arrangements look inadequate and unequal the Congressmen have a sober and serious task at their hands: be told how these institutional distortions are unknowingly to the task of restoration of our national glory. Those a democratic obligation to talk to fellow-citizens as to how we putting the nation on a road to a totalitarian-lite experiment. associated with national security are already muttering that are all mindlessly getting sucked into the small-time When the Opposition fails to impart a democratic vibrancy there-is-too-much-democracy claptrap. The next pit-stop in this viciousness of a small-time man; how as a nation and as a to the polity, all other institutions of restraint - like the journey would be to look temptingly at the Xi Jinping kind of society we are getting infected with pettiness and small- judiciary, the Election Commission - too feel discouraged; and, authoritarian option. mindedness. More than that, the Congressmen need to independent regulatory authorities like the Reserve Bank of (The author is editor-in- chief of Tribune group of newspapers) convince the nation that they have the legacy, the leadership, India feel inclined to give in to the government's unreasonable

spend half your time working your business, we can live a great life with that money…. There is JOYS OF VOLUNTEERING no answer to it, each one of us is driven by our calling. Different things are important to Before I could do anything, the senior ladies till my last breath. different people. Money drives some and other jumped in and started picking two boxes at a I read a new piece on Asma Jahangir today things drive others. Those who are driven by By Mike Ghouse time… I could not bear, my culture did not allow (http://centerforpluralism.com/asma-jahangir- money will never understand volunteerism me for my seniors to carry that load, and I had to human-rights/) the human rights activist. What So, I salute the volunteer you, it is a great remember a beautiful inspiring conversation do it. I believe it was Sandra, wife of Judge made her stand up against powers to protect the feeling to serve others, particularly those whom from some 12 years ago, I was one of the few Barefootsanders who questioned me, young rights of people who were not related to her? you don't know and will never see again and Imen who volunteered at a women's man, I am healthy and active because I do the Then I started thinking about Martin Luther never get paid to serve.If you are one, share a conference in Dallas. We had 5000 women work and will remain active…. She was King, Gandhi, Mother Teresa and others, why note. coming from all around the world. I was the awesome! They would not listen and the did they not enjoy their lives and were hell-bent (The author is an Indian-American committed registrar and had about 10 booths to manage. I suburbans were loaded in no time. on repairing the world? You may be one too to building cohesive societies and offers walked in at 7 AM, we did not have the As we were driving back to the hotel, what I constantly serving others for no gain. Then I ask pluralistic solutions on issues of the day. As registration papers - 4 or 5 senior ladies in their heard was an incredible conversation. The ladies myself, why do I volunteer? Why do I stand up for we learn to respect the "otherness" of others 80's said they are in the basement of a Church. were talking about how many hours they served others? I have gotten threats against my life, and accept the God-given uniqueness of each So, we rode in few suburbans to bring the papers in a Church, Hospital or a School…. I will never screamed at, attacked but never was I one of us, conflicts will fade, and solutions - in the basement, there were about 30 boxes to forget that conversation and made the discouraged. I don't get a penny either, rather I emerge. He is the president of the Center for load…. I was debating how I am going to do this. determination that I will always be a volunteer lose it. My late wife Najma used to say, if you Pluralism in Washington, DC.) THE INDIAN PANORAMA 10 SOUTH ASIA FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 Pakistan Hindu lawmaker moves court Pakistan says ready for mediation after prevented from between Afghanistan govt and Taliban taking oath ISLAMABAD (TIP): Pakistan on March 1 PESHAWAR (TIP): A Hindu lawmaker in said it was ready for mediation between the Pakistan has moved the court after he was Afghan government and the Taliban as it prevented from taking oath in the Khyber extended support to Afghan President Ashraf Pakhtunkhwa Assembly for his alleged role Ghani's political process in the war-torn in the murder of a Sikh legislator in 2016. country. Member of the Provincial Assembly-elect Speaking at the second Kabul Process Baldev Kumar, who is in jail in the murder conference, Ghani yesterday said that his case of Sikh lawmaker Sardar Soran Singh, government was ready to recognise the moved the Peshawar High Court against the Taliban as a political group and offered Speaker, treasury and opposition members of unconditional talks with the militant group the provincial assembly for contempt of to "save the country". court. The Afghan Taliban are a political entity In his petition, Kumar prayed that Senate and Pakistan supports the dialogue between elections which are due on March 3 should be the Afghan government and the Taliban, stopped until his swearing in ceremony. Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif told The petitioner further claimed that he was journalists here. deliberately maltreated in the Assembly Hall "The talks between the Taliban and the on February 27. Afghan government are actually discussions Arbab Jehandad Khan, a Pakistan between two political forces, and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Member of the Provincial will support it...Pakistan is also ready for Assembly, threw his shoe at Kumar which one-on-one mediation with the Afghan landed close to him while some other Taliban," he said. members of Pakistan Tehreek-e- Insaf threw He said Pakistan wants peace and stability some balance in its South Asia policy," he interests of the United States." copies of the assembly agenda towards in the neighbouring country, while stressing said. "The effects of the 80s and the Musharraf Kumar. (PTI) that there was no military solution to the He also talked about the so-called era still exist, Pakistan will not make the Afghan conflict. "institutional interests" in Pakistan and said same mistakes now to keep American German captured by The foreign minister also asked that practice of portraying interests of interests above its own interests," he said. Washington to strike a balance in its policy institutions as the greater national interest He was referring to the military security forces in towards South Asia if it was interested in "will also be changed soon". governments of General Zia-ul Haq and having a dialogue between Pakistan and Asserting that Pakistan will frame its General Pervez Musharraf that allied with Afghanistan: local India. foreign policy keeping in view the national the US respectively in 1980s and after 9/11 to "The US can have an interest in Pak-India interests, Asif said, "We will not sacrifice our support it against erstwhile USSR and official discussions, but before that it should create own interests for the protection of the terrorism. (PTI) KABUL (TIP): An Afghan official says special forces have captured a foreign fighter Afghanistan's Ghani offers peace talks Bangladesh court extends bail for claiming to be German during a raid on the Taliban in southern Helmand province. with Taliban 'without condition' Khaleda Zia until March 13 The Defense Ministry's spokesman, Dawlat Waziri, said on March 1 that the Afghan KABUL (TIP): Afghan DHAKA (TIP):A commandos captured the man, whose name President Ashraf Ghani court in Bangladesh was not released, along with two other offered recognition of today extended the bail Taliban fighters in a nighttime raid earlier Taliban insurgents as a of imprisoned ex-prime this week in Helmand's Gereshk district. legitimate political group minister and main He says the special forces confiscated on Wednesday as part of a opposition BNP chief Kalashnikov automatic rifles and several proposed political process Khaleda Zia until March grenades during the raid. that could lead to talks 13 in a graft case, a day Helmand Governor Hayatullah Hayat says aimed at ending more after the High Court the suspected German had a long beard and than 16 years of war. deferred the judgement wore a black turban. He couldn't speak either The offer, made at the on a separate bail plea in Dari or Pashto, the two main languages in start of an international a corruption case, media Afghanistan. German authorities had no conference aimed at creating a platform for peace talks, adds to a series reports said. immediate comment. German fighters are of signals from both the Western-backed government and the Taliban The 72-year-old three-time former prime minister was jailed for known to have joined the Taliban and other suggesting a greater willingness to consider dialogue. five years on February 8 in connection with the embezzlement of militant groups in the past. (AP) Ghani proposed a ceasefire and a release of prisoners. He also said he 21 million taka (about $250,000) in foreign donations meant for the would be ready to accept a review of the constitution as part of a pact Zia Orphanage Trust, named after her late husband Ziaur Nepal to have new with the Taliban, who have so far refused to accept direct talks with the Rahman, a military ruler-turned-politician. government in Kabul. The Dhaka Special Judge's Court-5 set March 13 as the date for President on March 13 "The government offers peace negotiations to the Taliban without any the next hearing of arguments in the Zia Charitable Trust graft conditions," Ghani said in opening remarks to the conference attended by case and extended the bail of Zia, the Bangladesh Nationalist KATHMANDU (TIP): Nepal will hold officials from around 25 countries involved in the so-called Kabul Party (BNP) chief, until then, bdnews24 reported. presidential election on March 13 to elect the Process. "The court has set March 13 and March 14 for the next two days new president who will succeed the The comments represented a significant shift for Ghani, who in the of arguments. Zia's bail has been extended until March 13," her Himalayan nation's first woman President past has regularly called the Taliban "terrorists" and "rebels" although he lawyer Nuruzzaman Tapan was quoted as saying in the report. Bidhya Devi Bhandari. has also offered to talk with parts of the movement that accepted peace. Yesterday, the High Court deferred the judgement on her bail Though the president's term is for five The Taliban, fighting to restore Islamic rule after their 2001 ouster by petition, saying it would decide after receiving necessary papers years, the election this time is being held US-led troops, have offered to begin talks with the United States but have from the lower court which sentenced her to five years in jail this after two-and-a-half years as the country is so far refused direct talks with Kabul. It was unclear whether they would month. The Zia Charitable Trust graft case, filed in August 2011, implementing full federalism under the new be prepared to shift their stance, despite growing international pressure. accuses four persons including Zia of abusing power to raise funds Constitution, bidding farewell to the old Ghani said a political framework for peace negotiations should be for the trust from unknown sources. centralized political system. The Election created with a ceasefire and the Taliban recognised as a legitimate The three others are: Harris Chowdhury, political secretary of Commission announced the date for electing political group with an official political office. In return, the movement then prime minister Zia between 2001 and 2006; Ziaul Islam the country's third president after its officials would have to recognise the Afghan government and respect the rule of Munna, Assistant Private Secretary (APS) to Harris; and Monirul yesterday held consultations with the law. Islam Khan, APS of former Dhaka city mayor Sadeque Hossain government and various political parties. In addition, Taliban prisoners could be released and their names Khoka. The corruption case is one of dozens pending against Zia, The EC has fixed March 7 for the nomination removed from international blacklists, while security arrangements who has been a rival to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for decades. of candidates and the polling will be held on could be made for Taliban agreeing to join a process of reconciliation. The charges against Zia had led to her boycotting polls in 2014, March 13. The vote counting will begin Former fighters and refugees could be reintegrated and provided with which triggered widespread protests at the time. immediately after the polls on the same day. jobs. Currently, 34 cases are pending against Zia in various courts A candidate must receive a majority of the The United States last year stepped up its military assistance to across the country, including the Zia Orphanage Trust and Zia 884 votes — 334 votes of parliament members Afghanistan, notably through a sharp increase in air strikes, with the Charitable Trust graft cases, the report said. The BNP has claimed and 550 of provincial assembly members- - to aim of breaking a stalemate with the insurgents and forcing them to the that the cases are politically-motivated to keep its party chief out get elected to the post. (PTI) negotiating table. (Reuters) of the national elections, set for December. (PTI) THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 ADVERTISEMENT 11 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 12 US FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 Walmart raises to 21 minimum age to buy Iowa Senate & House kicked off their firearms, ammo sessions with Hindu prayers on Feb 26

DES MOINES (TIP): On February 26, both Iowa State Senate and House of Representatives in Des Moines started their respective sessions with Hindu prayers, containing verses from world's oldest existing scripture. Distinguished Hindu statesman Rajan Zed delivered the invocations from ancient Sanskrit scriptures before the Senate and House. After Sanskrit delivery, he then read the English interpretation of the prayers. Sanskrit is considered a sacred language in NEW YORK (TIP): US retail giant Hinduism and root language of Indo- Walmart announced on Thursday, March 1 European languages. that it was raising to 21 its minimum age to Zed, who is the President of Universal buy firearms and ammunition, the latest US Society of Hinduism, recited from Rig-Veda, company to recalibrate its stance on weapons the oldest scripture of the world still in after a deadly Florida school shooting. common use; besides lines from Upanishads "In light of recent events, we've taken an and Bhagavad-Gita (Song of the Lord), both Rajan Zed delivering the invocations from ancient Sanskrit scriptures before Iowa State House opportunity to review our policy on firearm ancient Hindu scriptures. He started and of Representatives, Feb 26 sales. Going forward, we are raising the age ended the prayers with "Om", the mystical restriction for purchase of firearms and syllable containing the universe, which in immortality." Reciting from Bhagavad-Gita, seven years. ammunition to 21 years of age," it said in a Hinduism is used to introduce and conclude he urged Senators and Representatives to Hinduism, oldest and third largest religion statement. religious work. keep the welfare of others always in mind. of the world, has about 1.1 billion adherents "We will update our processes as quickly as Wearing saffron colored attire, a ruddraksh Rajan Zed is a global Hindu and interfaith and moksh (liberation) is its ultimate goal. possible to implement this change." The mala (rosary), and traditional sandalpaste leader, who besides taking up the cause of There are about three million Hindus in USA. retailer said it was also removing from its tilak (religious mark) on the forehead; Rajan religion worldwide, has also raised huge voice Linda L. Upmeyer is Speaker of Iowa House website items "resembling assault-style Zed sprinkled few drops of water from river against the apartheid faced by about 15- of Representatives, which has 100 members; rifles, including nonlethal airsoft guns and Ganga of India, considered holy by Hindus, in million Roma (Gypsies) in Europe. Bestowed while Iowa Senate has 50 members. Iowa, also toys" but that it would continue to serve the Senate before the prayer; where Senate with World Interfaith Leader Award; Zed is known as Hawkeye State and whose flag states "sportsmen and hunters" in a "responsible President Jack Whitver introduced him. Senior Fellow and Religious Advisor to "Our liberties we prize and our rights we will way." Walmart said it does not sell bump Senate adjusted its start time by few minutes Foundation for Religious Diplomacy,Spiritual maintain", is said to one of the safest states to stocks or high-capacity magazines and in so that Zed could pray in both House and Advisor to National Association of live. Bordered by Mississippi, Missouri and 2015 stopped selling the AR-15 -- the type of Senate. Interchurch & Interfaith Families, on the Big Sioux rivers; its top exports include corn, gun used by 19-year-old Nikolas Cruz in Reciting from Brahadaranyakopanishad, Advisory Board of The Interfaith Peace tractors and soybeans. US President Herbert Parkland, Florida. Zed said "Asato ma sad gamaya, Tamaso ma Project, etc. He has been panelist for "On Hoover, actor John Wayne, Nobel laureate The company also said it goes "beyond jyotir gamaya, Mrtyor mamrtam gamaya", Faith", a prestigious interactive conversation Norman Borlaug, football player Kurt Warner federal law by requiring customers to pass a which he then interpreted as "Lead us from on religion produced by The Washington Post; and Olympian artistic gymnast Shawn background check before purchasing any the unreal to the real, Lead us from darkness and leads a weekly interfaith panel "Faith Johnson-all hail from Iowa. Kim Reynolds is firearm." "The law would allow the sale of a to light, and Lead us from death to Forum" in a Gannett publication for over the Governor. firearm if no response to a background check request has been received within three business days, but our policy prohibits the sale until an approval is given," it added. On Wednesday, Dick's Sporting Goods, one Maha Shivaratri celebrated at Hari of the country's top sporting goods retailers, also announced it would bar gun sales to any customers under 21 years old and that it Om Mandir with chants and prayers would stop selling assault-style rifles. The US gun industry is suffering a growing CHICAGO, IL (TIP): On Tuesday,Feb 13, corporate backlash in the wake of the devotees celebrated the festival of Maha February 14 tragedy, with companies cutting Shivaratri, in the Hari Om Mandir, with ties with the National Rifle Association gun great joy and enthusiasm. As per the Hindu lobbyists that pressure US politicians to tradition, devotees bathe the Shiva Lingam prevent any move to restrict gun ownership. with Holy Water, Milk, Honey and offer Chandan, Bel Patra amidst chanting of (Source: AFP) prayers, mantras and the resonating sound Major storm to bring of Om Nama Shivaya, called the "Rudra Abhishek". Living up to the tradition, hundreds of devotees came to the Hari Om feet of snow to Mandir to perform the rituals and sing the glory of Lord Shiva. California mountains Due to renovation in progress at the Hari SAN FRANCISCO (TIP): Motorists were Om Mandir, the regular 'SHIV DURBAR" warned to stay off Northern California was not ready for the Pooja this year, so the mountain roads as a major winter storm was Mandir Management had made special expected to bring heavy snowfall, powerful arrangements and set up a temporary winds and torrential rains at lower Durbar for the Devotees to perform the elevations March 1. Meanwhile predictions of Pooja & Shiv Abhishek. The marble statues widespread showers across the southern end of Shiva & Parvati were seated on a high of the state raised concern about flash pedestal, with the Shiv Ling below, so that flooding near wildfire burn scars later in the people could offer Milk, Water, Honey etc. week. A blizzard warning was issued for and do the Abhishek. The whole ambience of parts of the Sierra Nevada, where winds this set up reminded people of the Heavenly could gust up to 125 mph (200 kph) on the Abode of Shiva on the Kailash Parbat!!! The 8am. By the evening, there was an unending sang the traditional "Shub Vivah" of Shiv & ridges and 40 to 60 mph (65 kph to 95 kph) in Snakes, the Rudraksh mala, the half que and people were seen waiting patiently Parvati, devotees started dancing with joy. some valleys, the National Weather Service Chandrama, the Ganga on Shiva's forehead, in line for their turn. Chantings of Om Namah Shivay echoed in said. The blizzard would help the snowpack, the Trishul, the Damrus…all added to the A special Bhajan Sandhya was organized the hall and the entire congregation was which is vital to the state's water supply and Divine environment of the Mandir. in the evening. Subhash Sharma started the drenched in the glory of Lord Shiva. Also, is only about a quarter its normal size for Pandit Raghubir recited the Holy Mantras program by singing the "Shiv Stuti & this being a Tuesday, the regular Hanuman this time of winter. ``Totals will be measured and helped Devotees to perform the rituals, Chalisa". He was then joined by Madhu Chalisa for Hanuman Ji, was recited by in feet and mountain travel will become as per the Scriptures and the Traditions. Salwan & Rama Kapur, who sang several Suchitra Sarkar. dangerous,'' the National Weather Service People had been visiting the Temple right Bhajans in praise of Lord Shiva & Goddess (Photograph and Press release / Asian tweeted. ``Travel is highly discouraged.'' (AP) from the morning when the doors opened at Parvati. As Shama Sharma & Mona Sharma Media USA) THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 US 13 New York banking regulator seeks Jared Kushner loses ‘Top Secret’ Kushner Cos loan details NEW YORK security clearance: report (TIP): New York state has asked three banks to The new security clearance level will restrict Kushner's access to top secret intelligence supply information about WASHINGTON (TIP): Jared Kushner, son-in-law to their relationships President Donald Trump, is one of the many White House with the real estate business of Jared Kushner, a senior White House aides to have his security clearance downgraded, adviser and President Donald Trump's son-in-law, a source said on according to Politico. Kushner, along with other aides, Thursday,March 1. received the news via a memo on Friday, Feb 23. The Maria Vullo, Superintendent of the Department of Financial downgraded security clearance level will restrict access to Services (DFS), sent letters last week to Deutsche Bank, Signature highly classified intelligence, in contrast to the access Bank and New York Community Bank asking for details on their Kushner enjoyed while operating under the highest financial arrangements as well as loans made to or sought by Kushner interim security clearance - Top Secret/SCI-level. Companies, the source told AFP. The lenders were given until March 5 Concerns around interim security clearances surfaced to respond. The DFS has refused to comment on the matter, as has after White House aide Rob Porter resigned due to Deutsche Bank. But Kushner Companies said the inquiries were domestic abuse allegations. Porter was also operating politically motivated and amounted to harassment. under an interim security clearance. "We have not received a copy of any letter from the New York State Many insiders and pundits scratched their heads as to Department of Financial Services," a spokesman said. "Our company is the reasoning behind Kushner receiving top secret a multi-billion enterprise that is extremely financially strong. Prior to security clearance in the first place. Indeed, Kushner's our CEO voluntarily resigning to serve our country, we never had any background is in real estate and business; he has no type of inquiries. "These types of inquiries appear to be harassment Jared Kushner, who has worn dueling hats for more than a previous government nor foreign policy experience. solely for political reasons." Also, The New York Times reported year as President Donald Trump's senior adviser, has been Democrats spoke of suspending his clearance back in Kushner Companies received major loans from Apollo Global stripped of his access to the nation's top secrets 2017, after news leaked that Kushner omitted details of his Management, one of the world's largest private equity firms, and meetings with Russians on his security clearance since he's started in the administration," she told Citigroup, shortly after Kushner held White House meetings with application. reporters. representatives from the two companies. The paper quoted Don Fox, On Feb. 16, Chief of Staff John Kelly wrote a five-page Kushner's attorney Abbe Lowell told Politico in a the former acting director of the Office of Government Ethics during memo addressing ongoing security clearance concerns statement the changes would "not affect Mr. Kushner's the Obama administration, as saying the loans raised questions about regarding White House staff, in addition to ordering ability to continue to do the very important work he has the appearance of conflicts of interest. actions that would impact those operating under interim been assigned by the president." Kushner met Joshua Harris, a founder of Apollo, multiple times over security clearances. In this memo, Kelly decreed that However, others saw that as wishful thinking. Quoting the course of 2017 and even discussed a potential White House position those with interim security clearances whose background exclusive sources, CNN reported: which never materialized, the paper said. In November 2017, the firm investigations had been ongoing since June 1 should see "Republican sources close to the White House said the loaned Kushner Companies USD 184 million-triple the size of its those clearances revoked on Feb. 23. However, it was clearance downgrade could undercut Kushner's ability to average property loan. He also met Citigroup's chief executive in the unclear how this would impact Kushner - especially since influence policy decision-making in the West Wing. spring of 2017, Michael L Corbat, shortly before Kushner Companies his father-in-law, President Donald Trump, had the power Without a top-level clearance, Kushner will be unable to received a USD 325 million loan from the firm, the Times reported. The to grant Kushner a permanent clearance. attend meetings where the most sensitive national secrets White House referred questions to Kushner's lawyer, Abbe Lowell, Many suspected that the notoriously clannish president are discussed." whom the paper said did not dispute that the meetings took place but would intervene on behalf of his son-in-law. Yet Trump Since Porter's dismissal, Kushner's security clearance denied any impropriety. Kushner, who is married to the president's told reporters on Friday, according to Politico, that he has been scrutinized - even by some Trump loyalists. daughter Ivanka Trump, has been a key figure in the administration of would leave the fate of Kushner's security clearance in the Fox News host Shepard Smith told viewers last week his father-in-law, entrusted among other things with finding a peace hands of Kelly. that there was "a Kushner problem at the White House." deal between Israelis and Palestinians. "I will let General Kelly make that decision," Trump "Jared Kushner submitted his application - his 'SF-86' as A Harvard graduate with a law degree from New York University, said. "I have no doubt he'll make the right decision." they call it - and did not include 100 contacts with Kushner took the reins of his family business before announcing in While Kelly did not sign the memo that was released on foreigners, and then later had to go back and include January 2017 -- just ahead of his appointment to the Trump Friday that informed aides about the security clearance them. But then later he did not include the meeting at administration-that he was stepping down from his management role. downgrades, Kelly's previous memo from Feb. 16 was Trump Tower with the Russian lawyer and the Russian While Jared Kushner voluntarily left high-level positions in more than likely the trigger for the downgrades. translator. He didn't include that. So that was another 200 entities related to his family's real estate empire, he still retains The White House has declined to comment on amendment to this thing," Smith explained. "And that shares in most of these companies from which he is likely able to derive Kushner's security clearance; White House press took this past June." income, according to documents published by the White House in April secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders brushed past the issue Officials can be imprisoned for omissions on a security 2017. when speaking to reporters on Tuesday. clearance, as Salon previously reported. It is not the first time Kushner's business interests, which include "We actually haven't commented on Jared's issue Kushner has not been able to receive a full clearance in real estate assets in the states of New York and New Jersey, have been indicated, but we have commented on his ability to do his part because of special counsel Robert Mueller's probe in the spotlight. In May 2017, the company was forced to apologize for job. Which, he's a valued member of the team and he will into the dealings of Trump and his associates. mentioning Jared Kushner during a presentation of one of its projects continue to do the important work that he's been doing to a group of Chinese investors, in a possible breach of conflict of (Source: Salon) interest rules. (Source AFP) President’s longest-serving and closest aideHope Hicks quits as WH communications chief CONTD FROM PAGE 1 Hope Hicks's first association Hicks had no political Hicks led strategic messaging The 29-year-old former model, though with the Trump family was experience when she joined for administration priorities considered a political novice, was known as such as the historic passage one of the few aides of Trump who working with President Trump's tumultuous campaign understood his style and could influence his Trump's eldest daughter, for the White House. She of tax reform and worked with views. Her surprise resignation came a day Ivanka, on her personal initially served as a press Press Secretary Sarah Sanders after she testified before the House apparel and licensing brand secretary within the White to stabilize the press and Intelligence Committee she testified for eight communications teams after hours on allegations related to the Russian about six years ago. House, before taking on the interference during the presidential role of communications initial phases of transition campaign. director During her testimony, Hicks told the panel recently attracted scrutiny after Special departure but said it could be sometime in the that in her job, she had occasionally been Counsel Robert Mueller escalated his probe Communication when Trump was sworn in as next few weeks. required to tell white lies but had never lied into potential collusion between the Trump the President. In a little over 13 months of the Trump about anything connected to the investigation campaign and Russia. "There are no words to adequately express administration, Hicks is the fourth individual into Russia's interference in the election, US She is leaving the White House after my gratitude to President Trump," Hicks said to resign as the White House Director of media reported. serving Trump for three years in various in a statement. President Trump praised Communications. The other three being Sean Although Hicks maintained an unusually capacities. This included being his campaign Hicks for her outstanding work. The White Spicer, Mike Dubke and Anthony Scaramucci. low profile over the past three years, she spokesperson and Director of Strategic House did not announce the exact day of her (With inputs from PTI) THEINDIANPANORAMA 14 INDIA FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 Rahul Gandhi leaves for Italy to ‘surprise’ grandma on Holi INX Media case: Karti Chidambaram NEW DELHI (TIP): Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday left for Italy to sent to five-day CBI custody “surprise” his maternal grandmother and spend the Holi NEW DELHI (TIP): Karti weekend with her. Chidambaram, arrested in the INX Announcing this on Twitter, he Media case, was on March 1 remanded to also extended Holi greetings to five days of CBI custody by a Delhi fellow citizens. court. “My Nani is 93. She’s the kindest Special Judge Sunil Rana extended soul ever. This Holi weekend, I’m Karti's custody till March 6 after the CBI going to surprise her! I can’t wait contended that there were "very to give her a hug... shocking evidences" of what he has done “Happy Holi to all of you. Have a joyful celebration,” when he went abroad and alleging Gandhi wrote on the microblogging website. "when he went abroad, he closed bank accounts in which funds were received". CBI questions Punjab CM’s Karti was produced before the court on expiry of one-day CBI custody amidst son-in-law in loan fraud case the presence of his parents P Chidambaram and Nalini NEW DELHI (TIP): The CBI on March 1 questioned Chidambaram, both senior advocates, Gurpal Singh, son-in-law of Punjab chief minister and were seen talking to him. Amarinder Singh, in connection with the alleged bank fraud Additional Solicitor General Tushar Karti Chidambaram leaves Patiala House Courts after he was remanded to five-day case of Rs 97.85 crore by Simbhaoli Sugars Limited. Mehta, appearing for CBI, maintained CBI custody in the INX Media case, in New Delhi on March 1. pic courtesy: PTI The CBI had registered a case against the sugar mill, its that this was "not a case of political chairman Gurmit Singh Mann, deputy managing director vendetta" and the investigation was was issued to him after August 2017 till November 2, 2008. We are investigating Gurpal Singh and others in connection with the alleged bank going on in accordance with Article 21 of date, which shows the agency has whether the April 2008 reference was a loan fraud case. the Constitution. nothing more to ask him. "pressure technique", the CBI contended. Simbhaoli Sugars Limited is one of the largest sugar mills "There are very shocking evidences of "The only way of establishing non- "We have emails and invoices indicating in the country. The company’s Chief Executive Officer G S C what Karti did when he went abroad," he cooperation is to issue summons. You money was given to Advantage Strategic Rao, CFO Sanjay Tapriya, Executive Director Gursimran said, adding that "when he went abroad, never tested my non-cooperation. Consultancy Private Limited (ASCPL), Kaur Mann and five non-executive directors have also been he closed bank accounts in which funds Sudden arrest after six months. Its which is related to Karti, around the time booked by the agency. The CBI had carried out searches at were received". bizarre, I am arrested as I stepped out of period when INX Media received favours. eight premises including residences of the directors, factory, Even though Karti did not complain of plane. "There is substantial evidence with the corporate office and registered office of the company in any uneasiness during his regular "There is not an iota of evidence agency which needs to be confronted Delhi, Hapur and Noida. medical check up yesterday, doctors at against Karti. He is being arrested with Karti. Three mobile phones have The probe focuses on two loans -- Rs 97.85 crore which was Safdarjung Hospital last night sent him despite complying with court orders been recovered from him which need to declared fraud in 2015 and another corporate loan of Rs 110 to cardiac care unit and he was brought repeatedly." he said. be examined. 14 days is the minimum crore which was used to repay the previous loan. to CBI office only in the morning. Singhvi asked if Karti has done time required to keep him in custody," Due to his hospitalisation, the CBI's something illegal while being abroad, Mehta contended. Source: PTI one-day custody was virtually wasted as why didn’t CBI file a contempt petition Karti was arrested yesterday at it got Karti's custody only at 7:30 pm and before the court which allowed him to Chennai Airport on his return from the SBI, PNB make loans costlier he returned from the hospital this travel abroad. United Kingdom in connection with the morning, he said. The CBI said that in May 2007, first FIR lodged on May 15 last year alleging MUMBAI (TIP): In a move that may make home loans Senior advocate Abhishek Mani FIPB approval was given to INX Media irregularities in the Foreign Investment costlier, country’s largest lender State Bank of India (SBI) Singhvi, who is leading a team of and in April 2008, this reference was Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance to INX today raised its lending rates by 20 basis points to 8.15 per lawyers for Karti, contended that in made in the Finance Ministry. Media for receiving overseas funds to the cent with immediate effect. Scam-hit PNB followed suit, connection with the May 2017 FIR, CBI From June 2008 onwards, the payment tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when P raising its lending rate by 15 basis points to 8.30 per cent. has spent roughly 22 hours with Karti in of the bribe money was started. The Chidambaram was the union finance This is the first lending revision by the SBI since April 2016 August last year and no fresh summons second FIPB approval was given on minister. Source: PTI and comes a day after it massively raised the retail and bulk deposit rates. The PNB has also increased its retail and build deposit rates by up 45 basis points on various maturities. Source: PTI Jayendra Saraswathi interred in Mutt Furious over ‘special invitee’ tag,

Kancheepuram (TIP): Jayendra Saraswathi, the 69th pontiff of the Kanchi Mutt, was on March 1 buried in the Mallikarjun Kharge boycotts Lokpal meet Brindhavanam annexe on the premises of the religious establishment here with Vedic honours. NEW DELHI (TIP): Mallikarjun corruption against public functionaries. Amid chants, the body of the 82-year-old (in sitting Kharge, leader of the Congress party in “The Select Committee of Parliament posture) was lowered into a large bamboo basket placed Lok Sabha on March 1 boycotted a had put its seal of approval on the inside the 7 ft x 7 ft burial pit in the annexe. The pit was filled meeting of the committee that will select amending bill, yet the government has with herbs like “Vasambu”, salt, sandalwood and sand. an anti-corruption ombudsman, or failed to introduce and pass it. This Lokpal, in protest against being asked to amending bill continues to languish in India, US working together on attend as a “special invitee”. cold storage for want to appropriate The selection committee is supposed intent, commitment and objectivity on regional, maritime security to have the Prime Minister, Chief part of the government,” Kharge said in Justice of India, Lok Sabha Speaker, the the letter. WASHINGTON (TIP): The US is working with India on a opposition leader and an eminent jurist. A party that lays claim to the leader of range of issues including regional and maritime security,the Though Kharge leads the Lok Sabha’s opposition post in Lok Sabha must have Pentagon said on Thursday. largest opposition party, he is not the at least 10% of its 545 seats. Congress, “Our goal is to ensure that we are working together on an designated leader of the opposition which won 44 seats in the 2014 general array of issues with respect to regional security,” chief since his party falls short of the “A perusal simplicitor of the Lok Pal election, currently has 48 seats. Pentagon spokesperson Dana White told reporters at her minimum number required to claim Act, 2013; its intent and objective reflects The meeting of the selection panel weekly news conference. that post. that Leader ‘of Opposition’ cannot be took place on Thursday evening at the India, she said, plays a very important role. In a strongly worded letter to the substituted as a Special Invitee’. It is a official residence of the Prime Minister. “Therefore the more we can have a conversation not only Prime Minister, Kharge said he matter of surprise that your “At the outset,let me state on behalf of about Afghanistan and the future of Afghanistan but also “respectfully denied” the invite as the government is choosing to adopt this myself, my party and the entire how can we work together on maritime security?” she said. process was being reduced to “political route as a mere paper formality rather opposition that the ‘Special Invitee “There’s a great deal that we can learn from each other and pretence”. than seek any meaningful and Invitation’ is a concerted effort to so the Secretary (of Defence) looks forward to that Kharge charged that there was a constructive participation,” Kharge said exclude the independent voice of the conversation,” White said, responding to the first two-plus- concerted effort by the Union in the letter. opposition altogether from the selection two dialogue between India and the US next month. government to exclude the independent The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act was process of the most important anti- Source: PTI voice of the opposition from the Lokpal passed in 2013 to constitute a statutory corruption watchdog,” Kharge wrote in selection process. body to inquire into allegations of the letter to Modi. THEINDIANPANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 INDIA 15 PNB FRAUD: ED ATTACHES Anti-terror fight is against a mindset, RS 1,217 CRORE ASSETS OF not any religion, says PM Modi MEHUL CHOKSI GROUP

NEW DELHI (TIP): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the fight against terrorism and radicalization was not against any religion, but against a mindset that misguides the youth. Speaking at a conference on “Islamic heritage: Promoting understanding and moderation”, Modi said India’s values of equality, diversity and harmony strengthened it in a world of uncertainty and these were important NEW DELHI (TIP): The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on to defeat violence and extremism. March 1 (Thursday) said it has attached 41 properties, valued “Indian democracy is a celebration of at over Rs 1,200 crore, in connection with its money- age-old pluralism,” Modi said in a laundering probe into the PNB scam against Gitanjali Gems speech to an audience that included and its promoter Mehul Choksi. King Abdullah II of Jordan and many The central probe agency issued a provisional order for Islamic clerics and scholars. attachment under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act Abdullah, a 41st generation direct (PMLA). The attached assets include 15 flats and 17 office President Ram Nath Kovind with Jordan King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein and Prime descendant of Prophet Mohammed, is premises in Mumbai, a mall in Kolkata, a four-acre farm Minister Narendra Modi during the ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan in known for his global initiative to fight New Delhi. house in Alibaug and 231 acres of land at locations like radicalization and terrorism. He is also Nasik, Nagpur, Panvel and Villupuram in Tamil Nadu. the custodian of holy sites in In his speech, the Jordanian king terrorism; military studies; A 170-acre park in Hyderabad’s Ranga Reddy district Jerusalem, including the Al-Aqsa said the current global war against cybersecurity; military medical valued at over Rs 500 crore has also been attached, it said. mosque, the third holiest site in Islam, terror should not be viewed as a fight services, peace-keeping, etc.,” a Four flats in Borivali (east) area of the Maharashtra located in the Old City of Jerusalem. between religions. “It is between statement from the Indian foreign capital and nine others in Khemu Towers in Santacruz (east) India views Jordan as an “oasis of moderates of all faiths and ministry said. have been attached as part of the action. stability and harmony” in conflict- communities and against extremists Another pact aims to set up a Centre “The total value of the 41 seized assets controlled by ridden West Asia and New Delhi is who spread hatred and violence,” he of Excellence in Jordan “for training of Choksi is estimated at Rs 1,217.2 crore,” the ED said. Choksi looking to deepen bilateral ties with said. He also emphasized the need to minimum 3,000 Jordanian IT and designer diamond jewellery businessman Nirav Modi the country, according to senior “recognize and reject the professionals over a period of 5 years, and others are being investigated by the ED and other probe government officials in New Delhi. misinformation groups promote about and setting up of a resource centre in agencies after the bank fraud recently came to light, India has been a victim of terrorism Islam, or indeed any religion.” India for training of master trainers in following a complaint by the PNB that they allegedly cheated since the 1980s and, since the 1990s, “We need to take back the airwaves IT field from Jordan,” the foreign the nationalised bank to the tune of Rs 12,000 crore, with the witnessed an Islamist insurgency in and internet from the voices of hatred, ministry statement said. purported involvement of a few employees of the bank. Kashmir that has claimed many those who have victimized our world A third pact on setting up a fertilizer The CBI and the ED have registered two FIRs each to probe thousands of lives. India blames not only with bombs and terror but production facility in Jordan “with a the case. Both Choksi and Modi are said to have left the Pakistan for supporting anti-India with ignorance and lies,” the king said, long-term agreement for 100% offtake country before criminal cases were lodged against them. terrorist groups inimical in Kashmir. adding that inclusion was the path to to India” was also signed. It is aimed at They have, however, denied any wrongdoing. In his speech, Modi said that “those coexistence. ensuring long-term and sustained The ED, a central probe agency under the Union Finance who perpetrate acts of violence against “The fact that the king came to India supply of rock phosphate to India, the Ministry, is investigating if the allegedly defrauded bank humanity perhaps don’t realise that and delivered this address is very statement said. funds were laundered and proceeds of crime were they harm the religion they claim to significant given that he is the direct Briefing reporters after official talks subsequently used by the accused to create illegal assets and stand for.” descendent of the Prophet between Modi and Abdullah, S. black money. Source: PTI “The fight against terrorism and (Mohammed). His words carry great Tirumurthy, secretary-economic extremism, against radicalization is weight,” said a person familiar with relations in the Indian foreign ministry ‘Victim’ turns hostile in rape not a fight against any religion. It is a Abdullah’s visit. said, “There was a keenness on both fight against a mentality that Later in the day, India and Jordan sides to take this (the relationship) case against ex-Akali minister misguides our youth to perpetrate acts signed 12 agreements including a further.” of violence against innocents,” he said, framework pact on defence cooperation Both sides are looking at closer GURDASPUR (TIP): A woman who had earlier claimed urging the youth to associate that defines the “scope of such security cooperation given that Jordan she was repeatedly raped by former Akali Dal minister Sucha themselves with the humanitarian cooperation and making provisions for sits at the crossroads of a very volatile Singh Langah today turned hostile in a court here. aspects of Islam on the one hand and implementation of the cooperation in region neighbouring Israel, Palestine, She denied her presence in a video purportedly featuring the use of modern technology on the some of the recognized areas like Syria, Iraq and Saudi Arabia. her in a compromising position with the politician. The video other. training; defence industry; counter- Source: PTI had gone viral ahead of the Gurdaspur parliamentary bypoll last year. The woman recorded her statement in the court of Additional District and Sessions Judge Prem Kumar in the MPs’ perks hiked, Rs 39-crore presence of Langah and his battery of lawyers. A widow and government employee, the woman alleged that she had been asked by the police to sign some blank papers, “which were subsequently used to defame me”. The police had acted under the influence of some politicians, and extra burden on exchequer that she never knew Langah, she claimed. DSP (Special Branch) Gurbans Singh Bains, supervising NEW DELHI (TIP): Members of Parliament are set to get officer in the case, said he would comment only after going increased allowances with the Union Cabinet approving a through a copy of the victim’s statement. proposal in this regard. The court has fixed March 12 as the next date of hearing. The constituency allowance, furniture allowance and The bail application of Langah, booked on rape charges on communication expenses of the MPs would go up September 29 last year, would come up before the Punjab and considerably, sources in the government said. The Haryana High Court on March 5. parliamentary affairs ministry had proposed an increase in Sources said the police, which had been assiduously the constituency allowance from Rs 45,000 a month to Rs 60,000. building up the case against Langah, had been wrong-footed The ministry had also proposed that the one-time furniture by today’s proceedings. A police officer said the woman had allowance be hiked to Rs one lakh from the present Rs 75,000. first moved an application before the SSP that she was raped. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had announced in his budget “The SSP subsequently asked DSP (City) AD Singh to inquire speech that a permanent mechanism would be set up to revise into the allegations. To strengthen her case, she not only the salaries of MPs every five years, and it would be linked to a month on an MP. recorded her statement before the judge, but also handed over inflation. As of today, excluding the Speaker, the Lok Sabha has 536 a video to the SSP to substantiate her rape claims. It was only The remuneration of an MP includes a basic salary of Rs MPs, including two nominated from the Anglo-Indian after her allegations were found to be true that a case was 50,000 per month and Rs 45,000 as constituency allowance, community. There are eight vacancies. The Rajya Sabha has registered under Section 376 (rape) against Langah,” he said. apart from other perks. The Centre spends around Rs 2.7 lakh 239 members. Source: PTI Source: The Tribune THE INDIAN PANORAMA 16 THEATER FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 THEATER BY MABEL PAIS NY’s Broadway: Once On This Island (Musical) nce On This Island is the first Broadway revival of the musical, currently running at The Circle in the Square O Theatre (235 West 50th Street). The musical is written by the Tony Award-winning team Lynn Ahrens (Book and Lyrics) and Stephen Flaherty (Music), and based on the novel "My Love, My Love" by Rosa Guy. This production features new orchestrations by original orchestrator Michael Starobin who is joined by AnnMarie Milazzo. Bursting with Caribbean colors, rhythms and dance, the story comes to vibrant life in a striking production by Tony Award®-nominated director Michael Arden (Spring Awakening revival) and acclaimed choreographer Camille A. Brown. This production transforms the reality of a tropical village devastated by a storm into a fantastical world alive with hope. Once On This Island is the universal tale of Ti Moune Mia Williamson, Alex Newell, Hailey Kilgore and the cast of Merle Dandridge and Isaac Powell. (newcomer, Hailey Kilgore), a fearless peasant girl in search of Once On This Island. Photo/ Joan Marcus, 2017. Photo/ Joan Marcus, 2017. her place in the world and who falls in love with a wealthy boy from the other side of the island. When their divided cultures Cromwell Smith, Ron Kastner, Rob Kolson, Judith May of 1990. The Broadway production opened in October of keep them apart, Ti Moune is guided by the powerful island Manocherian, Kevin Lyle, Jay Alix, Una Jackman, Jeff Wise, that year and ran for 469 performances garnering eight Tony gods, Erzulie (Tony award winner Lea Salonga), Asaka (Alex WitzEnd Productions, Jeff Grove, Wishnie-Strasberg, Mark nominations including Best Featured Actress (LaChanze), Newell) , Papa Ge (Merle Dandridge), and Agwe (Quentin Earl Ferris, Michelle Riley, Marie Stevenson, Mojgan Fajiram, Best Original Score, Best Book of a Musical and Best Musical. Darrington), on a remarkable quest to reunite with the man Jesse McKendry, Silva Theatrical Group, Conor Bagley, The 1994 West End production won the Olivier Award for Best who has captured her heart. Brendan C. Tetro, Invisible Wall Productions, The Harbert New Musical. Additional cast includes Phillip Boykin (Tonton Julian), Family, Keith Cromwell, and Red Mountain Theatre Company. Once On This Island currently running, has no closing date. Darlesia Cearcy (Storyteller), Rodrick Covington (Storyteller), The associate producers are Kayla Greenspan and Valerie Running Time: 90 minutes with no intermission. Emerson Davis (Little Girl) Alysha Deslorieux (Andrea), Tyler Novakoff. Hardwick (Storyteller), Cassondra James (Storyteller), David The creative team also includes Dane Laffrey (Scenic For more information on the musical, visit Jennings (Armand), Grasan Kingsberry (Storyteller), Loren Design), Clint Ramos (Costume Design), Jules Fisher and www.OnceOnThisIsland.com Lott (Storyteller), Kenita R. Miller (Mama Euralie), Isaac Peggy Eisenhauer (Lighting Designers), Peter Hylenski Powell (Daniel), T. Oliver Reid (Storyteller), Aurelia Williams (Sound Designer), John Bertles/Bash The Trash (Unusual Follow Once On This Island on Twitter, Facebook, and (Storyteller), and Mia Williamson (Little Girl). Instruments), Cookie Jordan (Hair/Wig & Makeup Designer), Instagram: @OnceIslandBway The main producers of the musical are Ken Davenport and Chris Fenwick (Music Supervisor), Alvin Hough, Jr. (Music Hunter Arnold. Director), David Perlow (Associate Director), Nikki M. James Tickets for Once On This Island are on sale through Additional producers include Carl Daikeler, Roy Putrino, (Assistant Director), Rickey Tripp (Associate Choreographer) Telecharge. Group tickets are available at Broadway Strategic Return Fund, Caiola Productions, H. and Telsey + Co / Craig Burns, CSA (Casting Agent). www.YourBroadwayGenius.com or by calling Richard Hopper, Sandi Moran, Diego Kolankowsky, Brian Once On This Island premiered at Playwrights Horizons in 855-329-2932. NJSO and NJPAC present in Concert Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban™ ‘This will be another unforgettable event.’ spellbinding and incredible music composed by John Williams became an instant classic, conjuring beautiful, Justin Freer, creator & producer: soaring motifs continuing the adventures of Harry Potter on Harry Potter, CineConcerts Series his magical journey. This film concert series has been created by CineConcerts, ‘Harry Potter is synonymous with in partnership with Warner Bros. Consumer Products, and excitement around the world’ will be conducted by its creator and producer, Justin Freer. He explains, "The Harry Potter film series continues to be a once- Brady Beaubien, CineConcert Producer in-a-lifetime cultural phenomenon that delights millions of fans around the world. It is with great pleasure that we udiences will experience the next chapter of the Harry introduced for the first time ever an opportunity to experience Potter Film Concert Series with the New Jersey the award-winning music scores played live by a symphony ASymphony Orchestra (NJSO) performing music from orchestra, all while the beloved film is simultaneously the entire film live to picture. projected onto the big screen. This will be another NJSO will perform the magical score live from Harry Potter unforgettable event." and the Prisoner of Azkaban while the entire film plays in Brady Beaubien of CineConcerts and Concert Producer for high-definition on a 40-foot screen. the Harry Potter Film Concert Series added, "Harry Potter is MSU Vocal Accord, a choir from Montclair State University, synonymous with excitement around the world and we hope will be singing during the performance (there is some that by performing this incredible music with the full movie, featured chorus in the film). (Behind, L to R) Ron, Harry; (Front) Hermione in Harry Potter audiences will enjoy returning to this world, and to the many The Harry Potter Film Concert Series, which is another and the Prisoner of Azkaban. wonderful characters that inhabit it." magical experience from J.K. Rowling's Wizarding World, Photo / HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia For more information on the Harry Potter Film Concert kicked off in June 2016 with Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. J.K. ROWLING`S Stone and is scheduled to include hundreds of performances WIZARDING WORLD™ J.K. Rowling and Warner Bros. Series, visit www.harrypotterinconcert.com. across more than 35 countries around the world through 2018. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s18) To purchase tickets, from NJSO visit In Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Harry, Ron and Hermione, now teenagers, return for their third year at Shrieking Shack, which is considered the most haunted www.njsymphony.org or by phone at 1.800.ALLEGRO Hogwarts, where they are forced to face escaped prisoner, dwelling in Britain. In addition to these new experiences, (255.3476); or, from NJPAC www.njpac.org or by phone Sirius Black, who seems to pose a great threat to Harry.Harry Harry faces a werewolf and must overcome the threats of the at 1.888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722). and his friends spend their third year learning how to handle soul-sucking Dementors. With his best friends, Harry tackles a half-horse, half-eagle creature known as a Hippogriff, repel advanced magic, crosses the barriers of time and impacts the shape-shifting Boggarts and master the art of Divination. course of life changing events for those around him. (Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social They also visit the wizarding village of Hogsmeade and the Earning an Oscar-nomination for the score, the Issues, Health and Wellness, and Spirituality THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 ADVERTISEMENT 17 THEINDIANPANORAMA 18 BOLLYWOOD FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 MANDIRA BEDI OPENS UP ABOUT WHY SHE HAD TO ‘COVER UP’ HER TATTOO

long with making quirky style statements — noodle strap blouses, Abob hairdo and religious tattoos on navel and nape — actor Mandira Bedi is known for apologetically following her heart. However, it has not been a smooth ride. In 2010, the actor got into trouble when her Ek Onkar tattoo — that she got made on the back of her neck in 2004 — left some fringe groups fuming. Mandira recalls, “It all started during the 2007 Cricket World Cup tournament. And people in Punjab [after noticing the tattoo on TV] were burning my effigies. I had to put an apology in newspapers, and things became Batti Gul Meter Chalu calm for a while. But, a couple of years later, when I had worn a sari for an event in is entertaining, has Ludhiana, some photographer clicked a photo and tried to incite things. Then around election time [in 2010], a criminal case was substance: Yami Gautam filed against me.” She adds that she felt bad ami Gautam says her next film Batti Gul for her parents who had to go through so Meter Chalu is entertaining and has a lot much “as the apology was put in all Yof substance. vernacular papers in Punjab.” “Batti Gul Meter Chalu is a social drama on It was then that she decided to cover it up the electricity issue faced by people in the in 2014. She says, “Although I found out later country, especially in small towns,” said Yami. that there’s no case as such but I decided I’m “And given the kind of films that producer not going to fight it now. If there are people Prernaa Arora (KriArj Entertainment) has who are narrow minded and having a been doing and what Shree Narayan Singh problem with something like this, I wanted (director) has done with Toilet: Ek Prem to get done with them.” Katha“... you can expect a very fine About its new version, she shares, “The amalgamation of entertainment and a relevant central element is an African symbol that social issue which has been talked about for the means ‘God is great’ and the wings very first time,” she added. symbolise: ‘now I am free’. Otherwise, The actor is excited to play a lawyer for the whenever I used to go to Punjab, I had to hide unfortunate that her beliefs were questioned Onkar [God is One] is a beautiful philosophy, first time. “I think it is very interesting, quirky, my previous tattoo with a bandage or and taken out of context. “The idea was and I thought there’s nothing more entertaining and has a lot of substance at the conceal it with makeup.” She also reveals never to hurt anyone’s sentiment. It’s my permanent in my life than this. My same time. I am extremely happy to be working that she went with tears in her eyes to the body and I am not disrespecting it in any way. grandmother used to have it on her hand and with the team. I play a lawyer in a film for the tattoo artist and asked him to cover it up. The reason I got it in first place was because it’s something I’ve grown up with since I was first time. So, I am very happy,” she said. Mandira maintains that it was it meant [and still means] so much to me. Ek a child,”she says. Source: HT The film also features actors Shahid Kapoor and Shraddha Kapoor. Source: IANS PRIYANKA CHOPRA TERMINATES CONTRACT WITH NIRAV MODI, NOT SUING HIM YET riyanka Chopra has decided to cut ties with billionaire diamond trader Nirav Modi’s brand following the news about the alleged Pbanking fraud carried out by him. “In the light of recent allegations, Priyanka Chopra has chosen to terminate her contract with the Nirav Modi brand,” a spokesperson of Priyanka, who was the global brand ambassador for Nirav Modi, said in a statement issued on Friday. As the news about the multi-crore scam involving Nirav Modi came to light earlier this month, a statement from the actor read that she was seeking legal opinion on her contract. There were also speculations that she is suing the brand for non-payment of dues. But her spokesperson denied this. The termination news comes in the wake of after Kangana Ranaut and Bipasha Basu accusing Mehul Choksi-owned Gitanjali Group of breaching the contracts with them and not paying their dues. Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi, along with the directors of the Nirav Modi and Gitanjali groups, are under investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for an alleged Rs 11,300 crore fraud on Punjab National Bank through illegal use of Letters of Undertaking and Foreign Letters of Credit to raise and roll over money. Both Nirav Modi and Choksi are said to have left the country, along with their family members, in early January. Source: IANS THEINDIANPANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 HOLLYWOOD 19 JENNIFER LAWRENCE ANGRY AT TABLOIDS CALLING HER ANTI-FEMINIST ennifer Lawrence on Wednesday blasted a controversy over a photo of her wearing a Jplunging black dress outside on a cold London day as sexist, ridiculous and “not feminism.” The Oscar-winning star, 27, said in a Facebook posting that she was also “extremely offended” by what she called the “utterly ridiculous” reaction on social and mainstream media to the photo, taken as part of promotions for her upcoming movie Red Sparrow. The picture, taken outdoors on a bitter winter’s day in London earlier this week, showed a bare- WHAT MADE RUTH shouldered Lawrence wearing a black gown, while actor Jeremy Irons and three fellow cast members WILSON TURN DOWN A donned thick wool coats. Many commentators saw the photo as a reflection ROLE IN A MARVEL MOVIE? of the pressure on women in Hollywood to look good, particularly given Lawrence’s previous ctor Ruth Wilson has said that she once outspoken criticism of the gender pay gap in the turned down a role from Marvel Studios movie industry. Aas she found the character “boring” “True equality means either Jennifer Lawrence The 36-year-old actor said she still looks getting a coat, or Jeremy Irons having to pose for a forward to be a part of the Marvel Cinematic photo call in assless chaps,” tweeted London Universe and wants to play a “baddie” in a film. journalist Helen Lewis. “I did have an interview for a Marvel thing Australian journalist Stephanie Peatling ages ago. They wouldn’t say what the part was, remarked on Twitter that it was “cold enough that so I made a questionnaire for the two directors. the bloke actors have to wear coats and scarves to ‘Is she a baddie?’ They said she was a bit of their press call and yet poor Jennifer Lawrence is both. ‘Does she wear leather or latex?’ They said wearing a small amount of fabric some might call a no. I was like, ‘EER-EEER!’” Wilson said, dress.” according to FemaleFirst. Lawrence, one of the most sought-after actresses “I said, ‘How many days filming is it?’ They in Hollywood, was having none of it. said 14. I said, ‘14? That’s not very long... EER- “That Versace dress was fabulous, you think I’m EEER!’ So I said no. If you want to be in a going to cover that gorgeous dress up with a coat Marvel movie, you’ve got to be a baddie or a and a scarf ? I was outside for 5 minutes. I would superhero. Just being the girl on the side is have stood in the snow for that dress because I love boring. I’d be up for being a baddie,” she added. fashion and that was my choice,” she wrote on The only time a Marvel movie has been Facebook. directed by a duo is Captain America: The “This is sexist, this is ridiculous, this is not Winter Soldier and Captain America: Civil War. feminism,” she added. “It’s creating silly Both films were helmed by Joe & Anthony distractions from real issues. Get a grip people” Russo, who will return to direct Avengers: Red Sparrow, a thriller in which Lawrence plays a Infinity War. The forthcoming Captain Marvel Russian spy, opens worldwide next week. movie will also be directed by a team - Anna Source: Reuters Boden and Ryan Fleck. Source: PTI Lindsay Lohan attends Fashion Week wearing a hijab ctor Lindsay Lohan, who has fielded rumours of having converted to Islam for months, was seen wearing a hijab at the Arecent London Fashion Week. Pictures of the star, who now lives in Dubai, have been doing the rounds online. Before her appearance at the show, Lohan posted a live Instagram video in which she was learning to tie a hijab. “I think it needs (to be) a little bit more tighter in the (back). I don’t want it to come off and show too much,” she said. She also spoke to the BBC about her new avatar. Lohan was once considered a sex symbol. “Fashion doesn’t always have to be so naked and can be adventurous and still beautiful, with a strong group of women behind it,” Lohan said. In addition to the traditional attire, Lohan also wore halal makeup to the event. According to a post by halal/vegetarian/vegan makeup retailer HawaCosmetics, Lohan stopped by their booth and told them “how she’s into halal cosmetics and what she’s actually wearing on her face today was all halal!!” Lohan’s choice was met with mixed reactions online. One person on Twitter commented, “It amazes me how the western civilization sees wearing the hijab as an act of liberation and empowerment while women in Iran are removing their hijabs off as a protest, meaning the hijab is actually a sign of oppression in muslim countries.” Another person replied to the BBC’s tweet by saying, “Since when did promoting oppressive articles of clothing become a thing? Especially when women take off their hijab’s in protest...seems counter- productive...” THE INDIAN PANORAMA 20 ADVERTISEMENT FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 THEINDIANPANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 TRIBUTE 21

1963-2018 SRIDEVI: A SUPERSTAR TILL THE END hroughout the 1980s the Bollywood film star Sridevi, who has died aged 54 after Tdrowning in a bath in a Dubai hotel, was the undisputed queen of Indian cinema, often eclipsing the male actors she starred with. In breaking through this glass ceiling she became one of the highest paid actors of her time, demonstrating great versatility in roles that ranged from clown to femme fatale – no one else could have played her half-woman, half-snake character in Nagina (1986) with such seductive aplomb. Her 300 films made in the course of half a century of acting began when she was a toddler, with roles in devotional films such as Kandhan Karunai (1967) and Thunaivan (1969), in both of which she played the childhood incarnation of Lord Murugan, a south Indian deity. In her most recent release, the thriller Mom (2017), she played an avenging stepmother who destroys the lives of the four men who raped her stepdaughter. Her career bore witness to the changing currents of Indian cinema, from conservative family- oriented mid-century movies to the socially engaged woman-power cinema of contemporary times, while always remaining the nation’s primary spectacle. Born in Sivakasi, a small town in Tamil Nadu famous for its firecracker factories, she was the daughter of K Ayyappan, a lawyer, and his wife, Rajeshwari. The family ran a small plastic manufacturing unit. Sridevi’s mother and her sister Srilata often accompanied her on film shoots. While Bollywood remains the biggest film industry in India, the country also has rich cinema cultures in its regional languages. Adept in several South Indian languages, in her early career, Sridevi was involved in the Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam cinema industries. But she also managed what was for her time a rare crossover from the southern film industry, thereby gaining nationwide recognition and appeal. In fact, many of the early roles that set her on the path to becoming Bollywood’s first female superstar were remakes in Hindi of regional-language hits, including the films Himmatwala and Sadma (both 1983). Sridevi retained her striking good looks, and in her most popular roles portrayed strong, funny women: the investigative journalist in Mr India (1987) who is not above going under cover as a cabaret dancer; the street-smart dancer in ChaalBaaz (1989), whose stunt scenes are also comic ones; and the Afghan warrior in Khuda Gawah (1992) who rides a horse into battle. She was not just funny; she was also willing to look funny. Her mercurially comic facial expressions, her over-the-top outfits, the dance moves that earned her the sobriquet Thunder Thighs were all of a piece with the gusto and spontaneity of her acting. Sridevi was extremely discreet about her personal life. In the 1980s she was reported to have married her fellow actor Mithun Chakraborty, but the relationship did not last. In 1996, she married the producer Boney Kapoor. Kapoor, who had produced several movies much concerned with nuance. When she was 2013 Sridevi was awarded the highest civilian that starred Sridevi and also his actor brother on the screen, it was clear that she was having honour in India, the Padma Shri. Anil, was one of the kingmakers of Bollywood. a good time. But when she returned to the Female Bollywood stars, especially those Together the Kapoors and Sridevi cinema in 2012 as the shy housewife in English with adult children who follow them into demonstrated an outstanding grasp of the Vinglish who sets out to teach herself English acting careers, typically make do with smaller popular imagination. After her marriage to for a trip to see her sister in New York, it was and smaller parts while fading into oblivion. Boney,Sridevi put her acting career on hold for clear that her craft was much more Sridevi was poised to change that trajectory. more than a decade, apart from a brief foray sophisticated. She had reached a point in her Her charisma and her family’s producing into television. career where she was able to balance her comic power could have combined to create a new In the loud, colourful movies that she made playfulness with subtlety and good judgment. path for her as a senior figure in Bollywood. in her heyday, Sridevi was neither studied nor In addition to numerous awards for acting, in Source: The Guardian THEINDIANPANORAMA 22 FEATURE FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY nternational Women's Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, Ieconomic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. International Women's Day (IWD) has been observed since the early 1900's - a time of great expansion and turbulence in the industrialized world that saw booming population growth and the rise of radical ideologies. International Women's Day is a collective day of global celebration and a call for gender parity. No one government, NGO, charity, corporation, academic institution, women's network or media hub is solely responsible for International Women's Day. Many organizations declare an annual IWD theme that supports their specific agenda or cause, and some of these are adopted more widely with relevance than others. "The story of women's struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights," says world- renowned feminist, journalist and social and political activist Gloria Steinem. Thus International Women's Day is all about unity, celebration, reflection, advocacy and action - whatever that looks like globally at a local level. But one thing is for sure, International Women's Day has been occurring for well over a century - and continue's to grow from strength to strength. Internationally, purple is a colour for symbolising women. Historically the combination of purple, green and white to symbolise women's equality originated from the Women’s Social and Political Union in the National Woman's Day, a year later. UK in 1908. Purple signifies justice and The idea to then make the day international dignity. Green symbolises hope. White came from a woman called Clara Zetkin. She represents purity, but is no longer used due to suggested the idea in 1910 at an International 'purity' being a controversial concept. The Conference of Working Women in introduction of the colour yellow Copenhagen. There were 100 women there, representing a 'new dawn' is commonly used from 17 countries, and they agreed to signify a second wave of feminism. Thus unanimously. purple with green represents traditional It was first celebrated in 1911, in Austria, feminism, purple with yellow represents Denmark, Germany and Switzerland. The progressive contemporary feminism. centenary was celebrated in 2011, so this year we're technically celebrating the 107th When did it all start? International Women's Day. International Women's Day grew out of the Things were made official in 1975 when the labour movement to become a UN-recognised United Nations (UN) started celebrating the annual event. day and later set an annual theme. The first The seeds of it were planted in 1908, when one (in 1996) was "Celebrating the past, 15,000 women marched through New York Planning for the Future". City demanding shorter working hours, better International Women's Day has become a pay and the right to vote. It was the Socialist date to celebrate how far women have come in Party of America who declared the first society,in politics and in economics, while the

International Women's Day being marked in Tokyo last year as protesters gathered to march against the gender pay gap and sexual harassment. Pic courtesy: Rex Features

political roots of the day mean strikes and How is Women's Day protests are often organised to raise celebrated around the world? awareness of continued inequality. International Women's Day is a national Clara Zetkin's initial idea for an holiday in many countries including Russia, International Women's Day had no fixed date where the sales of flowers doubles during the and it wasn't formalised until a war-time three or four days around 8 March as men and strike in 1917 when Russian women demanded women give flowers to their female loved ones "bread and peace". Four days into the women's and co-workers. In China, many women are strike the Tsar was forced to abdicate and the given a half-day off work on 8 March, as provisional government granted women the advised by the State Council, although right to vote. The date when the women's employers don't always observe the tradition. strike commenced on the Julian calendar, In Italy, International Women's Day or la which was then in use in Russia, was Sunday Festa della Donna is celebrated by the giving 23 February. This day in the Gregorian of mimosa blossom. The origin of this calendar was 8 March - and that's when it's tradition is unclear but it is believed to have celebrated today. started in Rome after World War Two. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 WORLD 23 Prince William to make Vladimir Putin, before election, unveils 1st official UK royal visit new nuclear weapons to counter West to Israel LONDON (TIP): Officials say Prince MOSCOW (TIP): President Vladimir Putin William will make the first official visit by a unveiled an array of new nuclear weapons on member of the British royal family to Israel March 1, in one of his most bellicose speeches and the Palestinian territories. in years, saying they could hit almost any Kensington Palace says the prince will also point in the world and not be intercepted. visit Jordan during the trip this summer. No Speaking weeks before an election he is dates have been announced. expected to win, Putin also said that a nuclear Overseas royal visits are made at the attack on any of Moscow's allies would be request of the British government. No regarded as an attack on Russia itself and British royal has made an official visit to draw an immediate response. Israel, whose occupation of the Palestinian Putin, who polls indicate should be easily territories the UK considers illegal. re-elected on March 18, backed his tough Prince Charles attended the 2016 funeral of rhetoric with video clips of some of the new former Israeli President Shimon Peres in a missiles he was talking about, which were private capacity. projected on a giant screen behind him at the Kensington Palace said Thursday that the conference hall in central Moscow where he trip "has been welcomed by the Israeli, was addressing Russia's political elite. Jordanian and Palestinian authorities." "They have not succeeded in holding Russia Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin back," said Putin, referring to the West. Netanyahu said that "this is a historic visit" "Now they need to take account of a new and William "will be received here with great reality and understand that everything I have political landscape for the last 18 years and unjustifiably expensive and pointless, he affection." (AP) said today is not a bluff." often used anti-Western rhetoric to mobilise forecast. The Russian leader also voiced Among the new weapons that Putin said support, said the technological advances concerns about a new US nuclear doctrine, China plans first sea- were either in development or ready: a new meant that NATO's build-up on Russia's saying that Russia's own doctrine was intercontinental ballistic missile, a small borders and the roll-out of a US anti-missile defensive and only envisaged the use of launch of satellites nuclear warhead that could be attached to system would be rendered useless. nuclear weapons in response to an attack. cruise missiles, underwater nuclear drones, a "I hope that everything that was said today Russia has repeatedly said it is keen to hold BEIJING (TIP): China is planning its first supersonic weapon and a laser weapon. will sober up any potential aggressor," said talks with the United States about the balance sea-launch of satellites, a Chinese aerospace The audience, made up of Russian Putin. of strategic nuclear power. official said on Feb 28. lawmakers and other leading figures, "Unfriendly steps towards Russia such as "We will view any use of nuclear weapons Yang Yiqiang, commander-in-chief of the frequently stood up and applauded his the deployment of the (US) anti-missile against Russia or its allies, be it of small, Long March-11 rockets project of the China presentation, which culminated with the system and of NATO infrastructure nearer medium or any force, as a nuclear attack on Aerospace Science and Technology Russian national anthem being played. our borders and such like, from a military our country," said Putin. Corporation, said that 2018 would see five NATO MEASURES "USELESS" point of view, will become ineffective." "Our response will be immediate. Nobody launches of Long March-11 rockets, with four Putin, who has dominated his country's Steps to contain Russia would also become should have any doubts about that." (Reuters) missions for commercial payloads on land, and one at sea. "The sea launch will meet the growing NINE KILLED IN needs for launching near-equatorial and low- China lashes out at US over inclination satellites, and improve the rockets' adaptability," Yang said. SAUDI-LED AIR "The solid-propellant Long March-11 bill promoting Taiwan ties rockets have strong quick-response ability with low prices, which provide better, STRIKE ATTACKS competitive services in space commerce," state-run Xinhua news agency quoted him as saying. IN YEMEN, Launches in the equator region are more fuel-efficient. They cost less but demand a RESIDENTS SAY more stable rocket performance, which is affected by sea waves and high temperatures. DUBAI (TIP): Air strikes killed nine Wenchang, cantered at 11 degree east civilians and wounded at least 6 on longitude and 19 degrees north latitude, in Wednesday in two separate attacks in north south China's Hainan Province, is the only and west Yemen by the Saudi-led coalition launch centre near the sea. As for missions fighting against the Houthi movement, with an inclination of zero to five degrees, residents told Reuters. the sea launch will fill the gap, the Xinhua The Saudi-led coalition, which has report said. intervened in Yemen's war since 2015 to try China started developing modern carrier to restore president Abd-Rabbu Mansour BEIJING (TIP): China lodged an official protest with the United States today, saying it was rockets in 1956, and the Long March rockets Hadi to power, has conducted frequent air "strongly dissatisfied" after the US Senate passed a bill promoting relations with self-governing have become the main carriers for China's strikes and has often hit civilians, although Taiwan. satellite launches. (PTI) denies ever doing so intentionally. The US Senate passed the Taiwan Travel Act, intended to encourage visits between the The Houthis, a movement derived from United States and Taiwan "at all levels", by unanimous consent on Wednesday, following its 13 dead in Christian- northern Yemen's Zaidi Shi'ite Muslim approval in the House of Representatives in January. community, have controlled much of Yemen The bill adds that it should be US policy for high-level Taiwanese officials to enter the United Muslim violence in including the capital Sanaa since driving States, meet with US officials and conduct business in the country. Hadi out three years ago. Saudi Arabia and President Donald Trump's signature is now all that is needed for the bill to become law -- Nigeria: Police its Sunni Muslim allies say the Houthis are something that is not likely to be an obstacle, given that the bill was passed unanimously. aligned with Shi'ite Iran and pose a threat to Washington cut formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan in 1979, recognising the Communist LAGOS (TIP) : At least 13 people have been the region. mainland rulers in Beijing as the sole government of "One China." killed in clashes between Christian and Residents said four civilians had been Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said that while some of the new bill's Muslim youths in central Nigeria, police said killed in an airstrike in the suburbs of the provisions are not legally binding, it "seriously violates" the One China principle. today, in the latest violence to hit the region. northern city of Saada, the main Houthi "China is strongly dissatisfied and firmly opposes it," Hua told a regular news briefing, Fighting broke out on Monday in Kasuwan stronghold. Five girls were killed in another adding that Beijing had made "solemn representations" to the US -- a diplomatic protest. Magani community in Kaduna state, about 45 airstrike that targeted a field in the west of The United States, she said, should stop official exchanges with Taiwan and handle Taiwan kilometres by road from the state capital, the country, in the western Hodeidah issues "prudently and properly" to avoid "damaging Sino-US relations". Kaduna city. district. Under the terms of the 1979 Taiwan Relations Act, Washington maintains an ambiguous "The mayhem led to the death of 13 people On Tuesday, airstrikes killed five civilians approach to the island, maintaining trade relations and selling Taipei weapons. with many houses and shops burnt," Kaduna in north of the country. Trump sparked protest from China shortly after his election in 2016 by accepting a phone call state police commissioner Austin Iwar told The war has killed more than 10,000 from Taiwan's leader Tsai Ing-wen, an action seen as breaking the protocol of the One China AFP by telephone. people, displaced more than 2 million and policy. Local reports gave a higher death toll. Iwar driven the country - already the poorest on He made amends by vowing to uphold the One China policy shortly before Chinese President said 20 suspects have been arrested, and the Arabian Peninsula - to the verge of Xi Jinping's visit to his Florida Mar-a-Lago resort -- but infuriated Beijing again last summer troops and police had been deployed to quell widespread famine. (Reuters) by approving a USD 1.3 billion arms sale to Taiwan. (AFP) the violence. (AFP) THEINDIANPANORAMA 24 WOMEN FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 SKINCARE AND HAIRCARE: PRE AND POST-HOLI he festival of colours of Holi can be a bit harsh for your beauty Troutine. While the colours damage your skin, harsh sun rays and chemicals present in colourful foams damage your hair. Here are some of the tips to be followed for a complete beauty care to be performed before and after the playful celebration. Beauty Benefits of Baking Soda BEFORE-CARE TIPS aking Soda carries antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic To avoid the unwanted skin and anti-inflammatory properties which balance the pH tanning and skin problems from Blevel of skin to make it smooth, soft and radiant and your end, it's best to apply a brings new freshness in the skin. sunscreen 20 minutes before It is also a powerful medical tool effective at combating stepping out of your house. It is everything from colds to oral problems to skin issues when advisable to use a sunscreen that used for short periods. Apart from cooking and cleaning, contains an SPF higher than SPF baking soda also has amazing beauty benefits, which can help 20. The built-in moisturisers will you to look best from head to toe. protect your skin from the sun as Baking soda, also known as soda bicarb or sodium well as colours. bicarbonate has so many uses, that it can be called a wonder You should not forget about your ingredient. It has myriad uses at home, like cleaning certain fingernails on Holi, according to surfaces, relieving problems of digestion, removing odour, Shikhee Agrawal, Head-Training, treating rashes, itching and even stings. The Body Shop India. It is best to Apart from these, baking soda can also be used for beauty ensure attention to cuticles and treatments. Bicarbonate of soda, or baking soda, is known to nails, minding the sensitivity of layer of lip balm jelly generously Wash off the impurities and prevent body odour. During the hot and humid season, body these areas. Apply transparent nail over them so that the Holi colour colours with a good hair shampoo, odour can form easily due to perspiration. To remove odour, varnish and petroleum jelly for does not get stick to your mouth. such as green tea one, having make a paste of baking soda and water and apply under the protective coating. natural vitality to wash away the arms. You can also add lemon juice to this paste. For hair care, slather your hair AFTERCARE TIPS noxious substances from your hair. Leave on for 10 minutes and wash off with water. Or, mix a with oil. Holi colours can Once all the celebration gets over, Also once you are done with the little baking soda with your talcum powder and apply under presumably damage your Hair to a there comes the real problem of washing part, don't forget to apply the arms, or on the feet. great extent. Applying Coconut or removing the colors from your conditioner. Baking soda is also very useful for oily skin and problems even a normal hair oil, half an face. Rinsing your face with clean After, all the exposing to the sun, related to it, like blackheads, pimples and acne. Mix a little hour before stomping out can cut water, followed by a hearty harmful hues and toxic elements water with bicarbonate of soda and make a paste. Apply this back the damage scope to a application of face lotion is flying in the air all throughout the on areas with blackheads and open pores. Wash off after 5 nominal level. Also, it's best to tie suggested. It is important that all day, it is important to apply a good minutes. your hair down rather than the impurity and toxic substances and efficient eye cream full of This not only reduces oiliness but also cleanses the pores. It leaving them open during the release out of your skin-pores. So vitamin E before dozing off to has a slight skin-peeling effect, which helps in the removal or festivities. it is suitable to use a cleanser sleep. This will make you feel fresh blackheads. In other words, it helps exfoliation, removing Don't miss to apply lots of lip balm containing less of chemical in the next morning and will clear dead skin cells. But, it has a mild and gentle effect and does not to lips to ensure the least harm. It elements and more of natural your dark circles and patches cause skin irritation or sensitivity. It can also be applied on would be better to apply a thick ingredients like Tea Tree. overnight. Source: ANI acne prone skin, to help dry the eruptions. FOOD CORNER ROGAN JOSH BANJARI GOSHT Ingredients Ingredients 1 kg meat 150 gm oil, 600 gm mutton- cleaned and 1 cup mustard/refined oil cut, 200 gm onions, 3 tsp red chili powder 50 gm whole garam 3 tsp fennel powder masala, 80 gm ginger-garlic paste, 2 tsp ginger powder 25 gm red chilli 2 tsp cumin powder Fry meat till it turns brown. powder, salt to taste, 15 gm turmeric, 20 3 tsp brown cardamom powder Once browned, pour a cup of water. gm coriander 1 tsp asafoetida Add the red chili powder and saffron into the meat. powder, 15 gm coriander seeds- 4 pieces of green cardamom Keep stirring for about a minute. roasted and crushed, 150 gm yogurt, 6 whole red chillies. 2 cinnamon sticks Mix the curd nicely in the mixer and pour it into the pressure 2 bay leaves cooker. Method 2 cloves Keep on stirring till you get a reddish tinge. Heat oil, add sliced onions and saute till they turn brown. 1/3 tsp saffron - optional 1 cup curd salt to taste Add 2 cups of water, fennel powder, ginger powder, and Then add ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, red chilli powder, pressure cook for 2 minutes. salt, turmeric, coriander powder. Method Check if the meat is tender. Peel and grind green and brown Add yogurt and mutton. cardamom and add to the meat dish. Wash the meat properly. Heat oil in a pressure cooker. Add coriander seeds and allow them to cook. Finally sprinkle cumin powder and simmer for a minute and Put cinnamon, bay leaves, green cardamom, cloves, 1 tsp salt, serve. Garnish with pounded coriander seeds and whole red chillies. asafoetida, and meat together. THEINDIANPANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 HEALTH & FITNESS 25 WHO RECOMMENDS SCALING UP ACCESS TO TESTING, TREATMENT FOR TB NEW DELHI (TIP): The World Health Organisation (WHO), in its latest set of guidelines for combating tuberculosis, has recommended scaling up access to testing and treatment for the disease, especially among groups who are at risk, ‘MINI-TUMOURS’ CREATED such as children and people with HIV. The recommendations also include two TO BATTLE CANCER new shorter treatment regimens for latent TB infection (LTBI). LONDON (TIP): The move is aimed at expanding access Scientists have successfully In the study published in the to testing and care for people with LTBI grown mini versions of journal Science, researchers as they may develop active tuberculosis patients' tumours in a lab— treated the lab-grown 'mini in the future if they do not receive and tested them against appropriate treatment. dozens of drugs to find the tumours' with a range of The global health body said health best possible treatment. drugs. They then looked to practitioners have to prioritise testing In the study published in see how this compared to and treatment of people living with HIV the journal Science, and children under the age of five who researchers treated the lab- how successful treatment have been in contact with people who grown 'mini tumours' with was in those patients. have TB. a range of drugs. "WHO has now identified HIV-negative monotherapy as preventive treatment for eligible children received preventive They then looked to see how this compared to how children aged more than or equal to five children and adolescents aged less 15 treatment in 2016, Dr Getahun said. successful treatment was in those patients. years, adolescents and adults who are years. These shorter regimens will help According to a WHO report last year, The approach found a drug that had a chance of shrinking contacts of TB patients, as well as patients adhere to their treatment and India topped the list of seven countries, a patient's tumour in almost nine in 10 cases. contacts of patients with multi-drug- complete it," the world health body said. accounting for 64 per cent of the 10.4 Drugs that did not work in patients also had no effect on resistant TB (MDR-TB), as additional It is also releasing a mobile application million new tuberculosis cases the mini tumours. This suggests they could help predict high-risk groups," the global health body to support programmatic management of worldwide in 2016. when drugs would not work, researchers said. said. latent TB infection. India has last year pledged its The study, led by scientists at The Institute of Cancer It has recommended scaled-up testing Dr Tereza Kasaeva, the director of commitment to eliminate tuberculosis by Research (ICR) in the UK, was carried out in bowel and for latent TB infection in both high and WHO's Global TB Programme said, "The 2025, five years ahead of the global goal to stomach cancers, and other cancers of the digestive system. low TB-burden countries. new guidelines will help countries reduce the number of such deaths by 90 The results of the study did not change how patients were According to WHO guidelines, a catalyse TB prevention and contribute to per cent by 2030. treated. However, the approach could be used in the future to tuberculin skin test or interferon-gamma end the tuberculosis epidemic. Making “We hope the new guidelines will help choose treatment. release assay can be used to test for latent sure everyone can obtain the treatment disrupt the status quo in many countries According to Nicola Valeri, who led the study, the TB infection and active TB disease they need to prevent latent TB developing and leapfrog global implementation of technique needed to be tested in large clinical trials, but that should always be ruled out before into active TB, will save lives and reduce TB prevention efforts,” Dr Getahun said. it "has the potential to help deliver truly personalised prescribing preventive treatment. suffering." It would also contribute to global and treatment." Mini tumours, also called organoids, are tiny About the two new shorter treatment Scale-up of treatment to prevent has national responses in finding and balls of cancer cells grown in the lab. regimens for latent TB infection, WHO been slow and only 12 of the 30 countries reaching those TB patients not in care, They can be grown from a tissue sample (biopsy). said, "Rifapentine and isoniazid weekly with a high burden of HIV-associated TB, through systematic screening and Scientists take cells from a tumour and place them inside a for three months may be offered as an reported provision of tuberculosis testing. The guidelines are to be used gel, where they are free to grow as a 3D ball. alternative to six months of isoniazid preventive treatment among people primarily in national TB and HIV control Researchers believe that growing the cancer cells in this monotherapy as preventive treatment for living with HIV, said Dr Haileyesus programmes, or their equivalents in way can more closely mirror how they behave inside the both adults and children." Getahun, Coordinator for TB/HIV and ministries of health, and for other policy- body. "Rifampicin plus isoniazid daily for community engagement, WHO Global TB makers working on TB and HIV and They grew mini tumours from biopsies taken from 71 three months should be offered as an Programme. infectious diseases, WHO said. patients with advanced bowel, stomach or bile duct cancer alternative to six months of isoniazid Only 13 per cent of the 1.3 million Source: PTI that had spread to other parts of the body. The researchers tested 55 cancer drugs on the mini tumours, allowing them to compare the results to how each patient's cancer responded to the treatment they were given. Mini tumours were more effective at predicting when Wine may be good for oral health drugs would be effective than looking for gene faults (mutations) in the cancer cells' DNA. LONDON (TIP): Sipping wine may be The study focused on stomach and bowel cancer, but Valeri good for your oral health, say scientists said that "the technique could be applied to a wide variety of who found that certain compounds in cancer types". the drink can fend of harmful bacteria Organoids have already been grown from a variety of in the teeth and gums. different cancers, including liver, pancreatic and Traditionally, some health benefits of oesophageal. Source: PTI polyphenols have been attributed to the fact that these compounds are antioxidants, meaning they likely PAGE SPONSORED BY protect the body from harm caused by free radicals. DR. SATISH AND GITANJLI ANAND However, recent work indicates polyphenols might also promote health DR. SATISH ANAND by actively interacting with bacteria in Former Chairman, Board of the gut. Plants and fruits produce Trustees, AAPI National polyphenols to ward off infection by E-Mail: harmful bacteria and other pathogens. [email protected] Researchers including M Victoria Moreno-Arribas from Institute of Food Agricultural and Food Chemistry, Working with cells that model gum Science Research (CIAL) in Spain checked out the effect of two red wine tissue, they found that the two wine GITANJLI ANAND wanted to know whether wine and grape polyphenols, as well as commercially polyphenols in isolation - caffeic and p- Former President, India polyphenols would also protect teeth and available grape seed and red wine coumaric acids - were generally better Association of Long Island gums, and how this could work on a extracts, on bacteria that stick to teeth than the total wine extracts at cutting (IALI) molecular level. and gums and cause dental plaque, back on the bacteria's ability to stick to E-mail: The study, published in the Journal of cavities and periodontal disease. the cells. Source: PTI [email protected] THEINDIANPANORAMA 26 SCIENCE & TECH FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 FACEBOOK UNVEILS LOCAL Moon to get 4G NEWS ACCELERATOR FOR WHATSAPP TESTING mobile network PUBLISHERS next year to FEATURE TO BLOCK stream HD videos to earth he moon will get its first SPAM MESSAGES 4G mobile network next Tyear, enabling HD video WhatsApp will start showing ‘Forwarded to be streamed from the lunar landscape to the earth, part of Message’ on spam posts a project to back the first privately funded moon hatsApp appears to be mission. SAN FRANCISCO (TIP): To help "metro newspapers" testing a new feature that Vodafone Germany, take their digital subscription business to a new level, Wlets users block spam network equipment maker Facebook has launched a local news accelerator for news messages. According to a report by Nokia and carmaker Audi are publishers. WABetaInfo, WhatsApp will be able working together to support The $3 million, three-month pilot programme titled to identify spam messages that have the mission, 50 years after the "Journalism Project: Local News Subscriptions Accelerator" been shared multiple times. The first American astronauts will begin in the US with 10-15 metro news organisations. feature was spotted in the beta walked on the moon. "We are working with Tim Griggs, a former New York version of the app with the number The companies are working Times executive and leading digital media consultant, to 2.17.430. The report said WhatsApp with Berlin-based helm the programme's curriculum focused on is likely to roll out this new feature PTScientists, whose privately understanding digital audiences and building marketing in the next update for Android and funded Mission to the Moon is plans for digital subscriber acquisition," Campbell Brown, iOS. due to launch in 2019 from Head of News Partnerships at Facebook, said in a blog post At the moment, WhatsApp does Cape Canaveral on a SpaceX on Wednesday. block spam messages which have Falcon 9 rocket. Currently enrolled publishers include The Boston Globe, been forwarded over 25 times. The 4G network will enable The Chicago Tribune, The Miami Herald, The Seattle Times Moving forward, the new feature two Audi lunar quattro rovers and The San Francisco Chronicle, among others. will alert if a message has been to communicate and transfer When it comes to the future of journalism, digital forwarded more than 25 times scientific data and HD video subscribers are critical to the long-term sustainability of the through a label that reads while they approach and study news business. “forwarded many times”. And if a NASA’s Apollo 17 lunar roving "We know Facebook is one part of the strategy to engage user needs to send a message to vehicle that was used by the readers and ultimately drive paid subscriptions," added multiple contacts, WhatsApp last astronauts to walk on the Brown, a former NBC and CNN anchor who joined Facebook recommends to use the Broadcast WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new moon, Eugene Cernan and to lead its news partnership team last year. List feature, where only contacts Harrison Schmitt, in Participating publishers will convene in-person once a that have your phone number in feature that lets users block spam December 1972. month, receive coaching from digital subscription experts their address book will receive your messages. The feature will be rolled The rovers cannot send the and participate in weekly trainings covering a broad array message. out in the next update for Android scientific data, HD video and of digital subscriptions marketing activities, including but The messaging app has over 200 and iOS photos they collect directly to not limited to the use of Facebook. million active users in India, earth because it takes too "Working with programme coaches, publishers will then making it the biggest market for the much power. Instead, they will design individual projects that tackle their unique business Facebook-owned WhatsApp. Given the rise in the user base, there has been a lot of talk over the use the 4G network to stream needs. Grant funding will empower each publisher to past few years over the increase in circulation of “spam” and “hoax” messages on the platform. the data to a base station, implement solutions that help elevate their subscription WhatsApp seems to be aware about the issue and has published tips for spotting spam and hoax which will beam it back to business," Facebook said. messages. “If you’ve received spam from a contact, delete the message and do not click on any links earth. Vodafone’s network "The Accelerator has been designed by publishers for or provide personal information. Tell the contact that the message they sent includes spam and expertise will be used to set up publishers," said Jim Friedlich, Executive Director of The point them to this WhatsApp safety page.You can also send reports of spam to WhatsApp by the 4G network, while Nokia Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Source: IANS contacting us from inside the app,” the company says. Bell Labs will create a space- By introducing the new feature, WhatsApp is continuing its quest to crack down on spam and grade ultra compact network Apple now using Google servers hoax messaging being circulated on its messaging platform. It also gives a larger message among that will be the lightest ever its users that WhatsApp is serious about tackling fraudsters from sending out fake emails, photos developed – weighing less than for storing iCloud data and videos in order to steal highly sensitive banking and personal information. one kilo.

SAN FRANCISCO (TIP): Apple has provided an acknowledgement for the first time that it is relying on rival ‘Happy space suits’ may prevent Google's public cloud for data storage for its iCloud services, according to the latest iOS Security document that the depression in astronauts Cupertino-headquartered giant updated on its website. WASHINGTON (TIP): Scientists are anxious," said Arman Sargolzaei, "The disclosure is fresh developing 'happy space suits' that can professor of at FPU. evidence that Google's cloud has been picking up usage as it monitor symptoms of depression in "This technology would provide them looks to catch up with Amazon and Microsoft in the cloud astronauts, and provide real time with immediate relief to their state of infrastructure business," CNBC reported late Monday. feedback to improve the atmosphere of mind," Sargolzaei added. There have been some reports on Google's iCloud win in the spacecraft as well as boost the The eventual product will incorporate 2016 but Apple never provided confirmation. occupants' mood. the wireless sensors into astronaut "For years the document contained language indicating Depression is a major problem in clothing, so that physicians on Earth can that iCloud services were relying on remote data storage space, as astronauts can be adversely also monitor the person's pulse rate, systems from Amazon Web Services, as well as Microsoft's affected by factors like insufficient blood pressure and joint angles. Azure," the report added. exercise, excessive exposure to light and Similar technology already exists, but The latest iOS Security document which gives a detailed lack of sleep, according to researchers it is cumbersome, often uncomfortable, explanation of the technology choices it makes to keep its from Florida Polytechnic University in and data collection is passive. users from getting hacked, the company disclosed it's using the US. This means the data must be reviewed Google's Cloud-computing infrastructure to store iCloud The technology, called Smart Sensory by a physician and the user can only data such as photos, files and data backup. Skin (S3), will detect emotional and The adjustments include changes in make appropriate actions after his or However, there is no indication if Apple is also relying on physical deficiencies in astronauts temperature, light exposure, light her recommendation. Google for additional computing work. through wireless sensors that will then colour, and oxygen levels. The S3 will be a step forward by When phones powered by Google's Android software send an immediate response to improve "It's vital for astronauts to be mentally making it an active technology, also appeared on the market, Apple co-founder and then-CEO the "atmosphere", and adjust the healthy during missions and right now lighter and more ergonomic, increasing Steve Jobs was famously outraged by their similarity to astronauts' environment to fit their there's no active, real-time solution to mission effectiveness by reducing Apple's competing iOS, according to CNET. Source: IANS individual needs. help them when they feel stressed or distractions. Source: PTI THEINDIANPANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 BIZ & FINANCE 27

AIRCEL FILES FOR INSOLVENCY Moody’s says India recovering from AFTER ‘NEGATIVE BUSINESS GST, DeMo; sees 7.6% growth rate AND REPUTATIONAL IMPACT’

NEW DELHI (TIP): Moody’s Investors Service said on Wednesday Indian economy is starting to recover from the negative impact of demonetisation and disruption caused by GST roll out, but kept GDP growth estimates unchanged at 7.6% for 2018. In its global growth forecasts for 2018 and 2019, Moody’s said the Budget for fiscal year beginning April 1 (2018-19) includes some measures to stabilise rural economy that was NEW DELHI (TIP): Telecom operator Aircel said disproportionately hit by scrapping of on?Wednesday it has filed for bankruptcy as the company has high denomination 500 and 1000 rupee been facing “troubled times” in “highly financially stressed” notes. industry. “There are some signs that the Indian In a statement in New Delhi, Aircel said that intense economy is starting to recover from the competition following the disruptive entry of a new player, soft growth patch attributed to the legal and regulatory challenges, high level of unsustainable negative impact of the demonetisation measures that could stabilise the rural stimulus from the February 2018 debt and increased losses had together caused significant undertaken in 2016 and disruption economy that was disproportionately hit congressional budget deal. The recent “negative business and reputational impact” on the company. related to last year’s rollout of the Goods by the demonetisation policy and is yet financial market selloff does not alter “The Board of Directors of the Corporate Debtor today and Service Tax (GST),” Moody’s said. to recover,” Moody’s said today. Moody’s US and global growth outlook,” announced that they have filed an application under Section It kept the growth forecast for India in “As we have said before, the bank it said. 10 of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016 for the calendar year 2018 unchanged at recapitalisation plan should also help G20 economies will collectively grow undertaking Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process for the 7.6% and for 2019 at 7.5%. “Among the credit growth over time, thereby 3.4% in 2018 and 3.2% in 2019, up from respective companies: Aircel Cellular, Dishnet Wireless, other major emerging market countries, supporting growth,” the agency added. prior forecasts of 3.2% and 3.1%, Aircel Ltd,” the the statement said. we have left our growth expectations for Moody’s Investors Service revised its respectively,Moody’s says. “Notably,the Sources said that the filing was made in National Company India and Indonesia unchanged.” global growth forecasts for 2018 and euro area is exhibiting the best Law Tribunal (NCLT) Mumbai. In November last year, Moody’s had 2019, incorporating stronger than economic performance since the 2012 The company statement also noted that efforts to merge raised India’s sovereign rating for the expected economic data and reflecting sovereign debt crisis.” wireless business with another operator did not yield any first time in 13 years, saying growth the likely pick up tied to additional US Moody’s said stronger inflationary results and had ultimately lapsed in September 2017. prospects have improved with continued fiscal stimulus. pressures would lead to a steady “Post detailed discussions with the financial lenders and progress on economic and institutional It revised real GDP growth forecasts convergence of the monetary policy shareholders, the company could not reach consensus with reforms. The US-based agency had upwards for the US, Japan, Germany, outlooks of global central banks over respect to restructuring of its debt and funding. Despite upped India’s rating to Baa2 from Baa3 France, UK, South Korea, Russia, Saudi the next two to three years. these discussions and the invoking of a Strategic Debt and changed its rating outlook to ‘stable’ Arabia, South Africa and Turkey for The current “goldilocks” period of Restructuring scheme in January 2018...no agreement could from ‘positive’, saying the reforms 2018. synchronised upward growth be reached,” Aircel said. would help stabilise rising levels of debt. The rating agency raised its momentum, low inflation, low interest The company also said it believes that in the current At that time, it had projected India’s projections of real GDP growth for the rates, steadily rising asset prices and circumstances, resolution process under the Insolvency and real GDP growth to moderate to 6.7% in US to 2.7% in 2018 and 2.3% in 2019, historically low volatility will Bankruptcy Code is an “appropriate recourse”. the current fiscal year ending March 31 from a prior forecast of 2.3% and 2.1%, gradually wane, it said adding the “The Company would like to emphasise that CIRP is not a (2017-18), from 7.1% last year, and put the respectively. “These revisions account recent return to financial market proceeding for liquidation, rather is a process to find best growth at 7.5% for 2018-19 fiscal. for stronger than expected momentum volatility is likely here to stay. possible resolution for the current situation and that would “The 2018 budget includes some going into 2018 and additional fiscal Source: PTI be in the best interest of everyone (vendors, distributors, employees, etc) to protect and preserve the value of the company and manage the operations,” it added. Aircel said it will strive to provide uninterrupted service Nirav Modi’s Firestar Diamond files for bankruptcy in US connectivity to its customers and sought their support in the “current difficult period”. Source: PTI NEW YORK (TIP): Firestar Diamond HIGHLIGHTS Inc., PNB fraud accused Nirav Modi’s Australia recalls 2.3 million international jewellery business, has Firestar Diamond filed for bankruptcy in the US. Inc has listed assets vehicles over airbag problems Firestar Diamond filed the Chapter 11 and liabilities in the range of $50 million voluntary petition in the New York SYDNEY (TIP): Australia announced the compulsory to $100 million, Southern Bankruptcy Court on Monday, according to a court recall of 2.3 million vehicles on Wednesday due to problems according to the court filing. The filing with faulty Takata airbags that have caused at least 23 deaths bankruptcy case has been assigned to worldwide. Punjab National Judge Sean H. Lane and an “order for The government intervention — one of the country’s Bank had earlier relief entered”. this month biggest-ever consumer recalls — follows consultations with Firestar Diamond, which on its unearthed affected manufacturers and industry stakeholders. website states that its operations span fraudulent It affects vehicles made by Ford, GM Holden, Mercedes- the US, Europe, the Middle East, the Far transactions at one Benz, Tesla, Jaguar, Land Rover, Volkswagen, Audi and East and India, blamed liquidity and of its Mumbai Skoda. Similar action has taken place around the world. supply chain challenges. It listed up to branches “The compulsory recall will capture approximately 2.3 $100 million in assets and debt, the court million vehicles that still have a defective airbag that needs document said. attorney Klestadt Winters Jureller Modi, his uncle Mehul Choksi and replacement,” said assistant treasurer Michael Sukkar. In its eight-page petition filed by its remained unanswered. firms linked to them are alleged to have “Absolute priority will be given to replacing alpha airbags, sole director Mihir Bhansali, Firestar On its website, Firestar Diamond defrauded Punjab National Bank (PNB) which pose an immediate and critical safety risk.” Given the Diamond said that in the judgement of states that it was founded in 1999 as a of close to $2 billion (Rs12,717 crore). scale of the task, suppliers have until the end of December the director, “it is desirable and in the loose diamond supplier and expanded The jewellers and companies linked to 2020 to progressively replace all defective airbags made by best interests of the Company, its into jewellery manufacturing in 2001. It them had allegedly colluded with PNB the Japanese group. A total of four million vehicles in respective creditors, and other acquired Frederick Goldman diamond officers to obtain fake letters of Australia are affected. Some have already been voluntarily interested parties that a petition be filed jewellery to get a private label and enter undertaking (LoUs) to get loans from recalled by manufacturers, with Wednesday’s action by the company seeking relief under the the US national retail market. overseas branches of Indian banks, concerning those that have yet to be fixed. provisions of Chapter 11 of Title 11 of Thereafter, it expanded US distribution including Allahabad Bank, Axis Bank An investigation by Australia’s Competition and the United States.” and set up a Belgium unit in 2009. In and UCO Bank. Consumer Commission found that Takata airbag inflators The court papers do not mention the 2010, the firm launched “Nirav Modi The bankruptcy filing includes without a desiccant—a drying agent—or with a calcium name of its founder Nirav Modi or his ultra-luxury diamond jewellery brand”, Firestar’s A. Jaffe Inc. wedding jewellery sulphate desiccant had a design flaw. uncle Mehul Choski, both of whom are it said. affiliate and Fantasy Inc. affiliate, and It said that over time the ammonium nitrate propellant charged with the $2 billion PNB fraud. The website did not provide estimates the numbers of creditors at could degrade, potentially leading to the airbags being An email sent to the company’s ownership pattern of Firestar Diamond. between 50 to 99. deployed in error. Source: AFP THE INDIAN PANORAMA 28 ASTROLOGY FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018

Shree Ganeshaya Namah

Bejan Daruwalla is world's most famous astrologertoday. He appears regularly on world wide TV shows. Bejan who has been a professor in English, hasauthored a number of books on astrology. India'sPrime Minister Narendra Modi , on March 29, 2012,lunched one of Bejan's books, '2012- End of theWorld? Bejan contributes to a number of journals andnewspapers in many parts of the world which includeBerkley Communications (London) Times of India(Delhi, Mumbai, Bejan Daruwalla is available for astrological Kolkata, Chennai) and The IndianPanorama ( consultations. He can be reached at New York and Texas). Bejan's [email protected] predictionshave mostly been correct and and on phone 011-91-8141234275 people the world overrely on his predictions. www.bejandaruwalla.com WEEKLY HOROSCOPE MARCH 5 - MARCH 11, 2018 Aries: Leo: Sagittarius: Ganesha says with your restored and enhanced You now allow yourself to become more relaxed Professional pursuits hold your interests. You set perception of life you will take it easy,be relaxed, and enjoy a "chilled out" time, as they say, with gargantuan goals and expect to achieve them. a bit laid - back too. You are happy and optimistic your loved ones. The married may want to renew Each and every aspect of your life is at its peak and take time away from work with your lover / their marriage vows or go on a second and fills you with a heightened sense of self- social outings with friends, children and parents. honeymoon. This intensely passionate time also worth. There are monetary gains too. Your You find joy in building and maintaining affects your money angle. So, get your account accomplishments fill you with pride and you are valuable partnerships and have a gentle loving books out and keep track of expenses. You do on a roll but the tendency to neglect intimate attitude which helps foster intimate bonds. It is have to pay for all your indulgences and so a tab relationships, children and health issues could not all as rosy as it sounds and you could face on expenses will be prudent. It may be a good gain cause roadblocks in your progress. hurdles, setbacks and delays coupled with idea to avoid any new undertakings at this time. sluggish funds and unexpected expenses. Capricorn: Virgo: Taurus: You will experience true inner peace and Having all aspects of your life running smoothly contentment this period. You have worked hard, There has been a steadily increasing awareness like the well-oiled wheels of an engine, you feel conscientiously and consistently, and the results of the importance of relationships in your life content as acknowledgement and appreciation have been superlative; you were absolutely for the past period. So, a further strengthening pour in for your brilliant performances at work. deserving of the awards and rewards that come and bonding, at work and at home, can be You now enjoy an enhanced stature in society, your way. Your performance at the work place achieved through mutual care and respect. Strife and this is very gratifying, especially if you look has been stellar, to say the least, but now you look and friction, when they occur, should be tactfully back at the hard work and sacrifices you have at issues far removed from the workplace. You and diplomatically handled. As we all know, made to get there. But now there is a complete are less fiery and ambitious and are more peaceful solutions will lead to greater growth and contrast, a veritable volte-face, as you move away complacent and calm in your interactions. progress. Control your ego and allow wiser from the absolute grind of the past period to the counsel to prevail. present mood of pure elation. Aquarius: Gemini: Libra: You will be closer to people now and enjoying the new bonds you have forged in the past period. You are determined to sustain the growth you Your confidence as well as the caring side of your You look forward eagerly to widen your personal have achieved and even build further on it. This nature will be at an all-time high as you give and horizons and the scope of your interactions and is an action-packed period as you find your hands get love and affection in equal measure from relationships. All kinds of gains have come to full at work, much more than you can handle. your family and loved ones. The past period has you but now a completely different dimension of The rewards are immediate and, buoyed, you given you some exceptionally special moments, connections, communications and collaborations push ahead frenetically. This could lead to a heart-warming and thoroughly enjoyable, with opens up. Geographical / physical boundaries burnout, causing more harm than good. So, use your spouse / lover and children / parents. The and limitations are no longer a hindrance as a available resources judiciously to avoid such an temptation of going overboard and showering fresh universe virtually opens up before you as eventuality. Spending time in the company of them with the most precious gift of all - your you make full use of the latest networking tools. small children / pets and on hobbies / leisure time - will fill you with pure joy and happiness. pursuits could energize you. Pisces: Scorpio: Cancer: Ganesha gives you just about everything that you Happiness and contentment come into your wish for. But your focus will continue to remain The hectic work situation slows down to some personal life through the blessings of Ganesha. on your work. A strong network of friends / extent in this period. You are satisfied with the There is closeness and warmth in all your relatives, in-laws is your lifeline as you immerse way your projects have turned out and now you relationships leading to greater pleasure and yourself completely into professional feel relaxed enough to spend time with your cheer. Your spouse / lover showers you will love commitments. Your efforts are scintillating, loved ones. Home matters occupy your mind and and you reciprocate. It is a lucky period in which sparkling and truly divine. You plumb the depths you may even delve deep into the history of your unexpected profits flow in and allow you to enjoy of your inner being to bring forth creations of family. Family trees, older relatives, extended the fruits of your labor. There is exultation and supreme innovation, novelty and originality. family, visits to the ancestral home, even taking exuberance in your life as material success pale This is an excellent time for those in artistic shock of ancestral property are some of the ways in front of the ecstasy of soul-stirring professions. the current trend may manifest in your life. relationships. THEINDIANPANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 SPIRITUALITY 29 GANESHA, THE FIRST AMONG GODS n Vedic times, Indra was the leader of gods engages in destruction as part of a and the lord of the heaven. He received a reformative and renewal process to uphold Ilarger share in Vedic offerings. Agni, Dharma and ensure the order and regularity Mitra, Soma, Varuna and several others were of the worlds. He destroys the enemies of God his friends with whom he shared the ritual just as he destroys the obstacles and the honors. He was the illustrious leader who adversity that often beset people. He helps broke the back of feisty asuras in many a war those who worship him by opening their and helped his devotees destroy their enemies minds to hidden truths and creative in fiery battles. He was a student as well as a solutions. For the enemies of God and evil teacher of the secret doctrine of the doers, he is the source of obstacles and Upanishads. People loved him, feared him and difficulties. He obstructs their paths by respected him for he could break the walls of deluding them. However, to his devotees he is mightiest forts to forge victories, and hurl the destroyer and remover of all obstacles and bolts of lightning from the heaven to release impurities. By illuminating their minds with the water held in captive by the dark clouds intelligence, he brings them peace, prosperity that blocked the sun. and happiness. Ganesha was then relatively unknown. The Ganesha the lord of intelligence Vedas are silent about him. If there is any hint of him in the Vedas, it is hidden in the Ganesha gives us the discerning power to invocations to other gods such as Brihaspati know truth from falsehood and find right or Brahmanaspati. In excavations and solutions to overcome obstacles and solve our archaeological findings, he appears later than problems and difficulties. Since Ganesha is Kumara. In all likelihood, Ganesha was an the lord of the mind and body, he is rightly original Saiva Deity, elevated from rustic qualified as the leader of the organs (deities) traditions, and probably unknown to the early in the body.The ganas constitute the parts and Vedic people. He was the leader of the Shiva energies of the body and mind. Parvathi is the Ganas, which consisted of all types of body or the field (Kshetra). Shiva is the soul, ferocious beings, who struck terror in the or the owner of the field (Kshetrajna). As hearts of their enemies. As their leader, intelligence (Buddhi), Ganesha is the first Ganesha played an important role in the (pradhama) among gods and the leader Puranic wars against the enemies of Shiva as (nayaka) of the ganas (tattvas and body parts). part of his filial duty. He rules over them and their functions and Overtime, Indra lost his position in the properties. Hindu pantheon as the leader of gods. He was Adversity and difficulties arise due to relegated to a lower position which probably delusion and ignorance, or lack of discretion. corresponded with the ascendance of Shiva When intelligence is clouded by desires, and Vishnu and the growing popularity of attachments, egoism, etc., one becomes Bhakti tradition in Shaivism and deluded and experiences suffering. When they Vaishnavism. Indra continued to be the lord of are removed, intelligence shines in the the heaven in an expanded universe of several consciousness and one finds a way to achieve other heavens. However, in the larger scheme complete liberation from all suffering. of things, he was just a ruler of a direction Intelligence is a reflection of the soul in the (dikpala) and a weak god who often mind. Just as Vinayaka in Creation, in a living succumbed to moral turpitude. In the esteem being (Jiva) it is the child of Purusha (soul) of people, he became a god with human like and Prakriti (mind and body). frailties, while admiration for Ganesha as the Thus, symbolically Ganesha represents leader of gods grew. supreme intelligence, which controls and Those who are acquainted with Hinduism directs the aspects and working of Nature in and Hindu rituals methods know that in the the microcosm of beings as well as in the traditional, ritual worship, devotees macrocosm of Isvara. As the child of Purusha invariably worship Ganesha before they and Prakriti, he contains aspects of both and worship other gods. The only exception is three times with great devotion and won the is the leader of all. He is the path breaker and communicates with both. His elephant head Lord Shiva who is considered by his devotees contest to become the leader of gods. He was the path finder. He leads the way in the symbolizes his unusually high intelligence. the highest Supreme Being. Because of his declared winner because he took refuge in darkness of ignorance and delusion. Ganesa The large ears in his images represent his popularity, in Hindu temples you will most God and sought his help rather than (Ganesha) means the lord (isa) of Ganas, the attentiveness and keen sense of hearing, while likely find a statue of Ganesha near the egoistically relying upon his own power. As a army of Shiva. The ganas represent the the trunk denotes his ability to discriminate sanctum or near the entrance so that people devotee he truly qualified himself to lead with energies, elements and organs in the body. things. Because of his association with can offer him worship before they visit the humility the followers and believers of Shiva, Ganapati means the commander of Ganas. intelligence, he was rightly chosen by sage main deity. including the gods. Besides, his mother and Vinayaka means the leader of the ganas and Vyasa to be his scribe for the composition of Ganesha is also worshipped by millions of father represented the entire creation, and gods. Ganesha also has several other names. the Mahabharata, the longest epic in the Hindus on the occasion of Ganesh circling around them was equal to circling The most popular among them are Vighnesa history of the world. For the same reason, Chathurthi. He is invariably worshipped on around all the worlds. or Vighnaraja, meaning the lord of the Siddhi (success, perfection, supernatural many auspicious, festive occasions and This is the surface story, which is well obstacles and the king of obstacles. power) and Buddhi (intelligence, discerning sacrificial ceremonies when devotees offer known to almost all Hindus, who worship As the son of Shiva, Ganesha partakes the wisdom) are considered his consorts. their respects to Hindu gods and goddesses to Ganesha. However, hidden in it is the functions of his father as a destroyer. He Source: hinduwebsite.com celebrate important milestones in their lives significance of Ganesha as the presiding deity and express their gratitude. Currently we may of intelligence and the lord of the mind and PAGE SPONSORED BY consider Ganesha the most popular deity of body. The moral of the story is that if you are Hinduism, next only to Shiva and Vishnu. In clever and if you have intelligence, you can ARISH K. SAHANI this essay, we discuss the symbolic overcome any problem and achieve victory. significance of why Lord Ganesha is the Ganesha used his intelligence to become Serving Since 1972 leader of gods in the Hindu pantheon. the leader of gods. In an unequal contest, he Please Call or Write for Your Insurance Needs The hidden truth in the legend of Ganesha wisely used his problem solving ability to defeat his brother who was far superior to him Arish K Sahani (Father) Legend has been that Shiva wanted to in physical prowess. Intelligence rules the appoint one of his sons as the leader of gods. world. Intelligence overcomes all obstacles. If Shiv Sahani (Son) Therefore, he held a contest between you worship the presiding deity of Kumaraswamy, his elder son and Ganesha his intelligence, you will gain intelligence, Priya Sahani Sood (Daughter) younger son, stating that whoever made a perceive solutions and answers to overcome round trip of the triple words and reached obstacles. Ganesha clears our paths by 7 1 8 - 2 7 1 - 1 9 0 6 him first would be the winner and the leader illuminating our minds with supreme [email protected] of gods. Knowing his limitations, Ganesha intelligence. He is therefore, Vighnesa, the sought the advice of his father who suggested remover of obstacles as well as their lord. ‘If Hindus don’t maintain Hinduism, who shall save it? If India’s own him to go around him and Parvathi three Ganesha leadership symbolism children don’t cling to their faith, who shall guard it? Indian alone can times. Accordingly, Ganesha circled around them As the deification of intelligence, Ganesha save India, and India and Hinduism are one.’ THE INDIAN PANORAMA 30 WORLD FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 Sun Mark holds annual Celebration & Awards Dinner at Gulfood 2018, Dubai

Award presented to: Sir Prince Oji Okisisi of company Prince Oji, Nigeria DUBAI (TIP): Sun Mark held its annual Celebration & Awards Dinner in Dubai during the Gulfood exhibition at the lavish Shangri-La Hotel on 19th February 2018. It was, as always, a glittering affair with esteemed guests from the Middle East and South Asian region but with many also flying in from as far away as Canada, Cameroon and South Africa; Mr Harmeet Ahuja, Director of Sun Mark, welcoming the guests with the array of guests resembling a gathering of the United Nations. Sun Mark is the only British company to have been awarded the Queens Award for Enterprise in International Trade for an unprecedented 5 consecutive years and exports to over 130 countries. Sun Mark's achievements are seen as the Award presented to Mr Izzat Ullah Khan of Naveed Trading, gold standard and recognized as an Ambassador for UK Pakistan Business. The Chief Guest from the British Government was the Rt. Hon. Richard Harrington MP,Under-Secretary of State for the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy. The Guest of Honor was Her Majesty's Consul General to the U.A.E, Mr Paul Fox. The evening was also attended by the cricket legend Mr Muttiah Muralitharan and the Honorable Mr Maalaine Salama, Head of Media Relations at Dubai Municipality. H.E Mirza Al Sayegh, Representative of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Finance Dr Rami Ranger CBE, Chairman of Sun Mark, addressing the Minister of the UAE, could not attend the gala dinner, but guests conveyed his best wishes to Sun Mark for the event. The evening began with Mr. Harmeet (Sunny) Ahuja, Director and CEO of Sun Mark, welcoming the guests. He Award presented to Mr Vijay Aswani of Al Vihag Enterprises, informed them that 2017 had been a monumental year in the Gambia history of the company as it was the year of the 70th birthday of the company's founder and chairman, Dr Rami Ranger CBE. He then proceeded to show a special video outlining Dr Ranger's story and milestones through his life. Dr. Ranger, in his speech, paid tribute to all those who worked closely with him and how the success of Sun Mark was a result of a combination of customers, and suppliers and other service providers coming together to help each other to progress. He thanked his team from Sun Mark for all of their efforts. He reminded his guests that with the right values anyone can succeed and told his own story and how it can inspire anyone to do the best they can. The guests were then addressed by Her Majesty's Consul Special award for outstanding lifetime achievement presented Mr Paul Fox, Her Majesty's Consul General to the UAE delivering General to the UAE, Mr Paul Fox, who spoke of the to Sheikh Khalid Mahmood and his son, Sheikh Omer Khalid of his speech importance of trade and reiterated its importance in forging Bismillah Stores, Pakistan improved relations across the world. He also acknowledged Dr. Ranger's philanthropic efforts and achievements. He spoke of the British food industry being a major employer and is the largest sector of UK manufacturing and an unsung hero of the British economy. He encouraged British companies to work in the UAE and to use it as a base to grow their business further. The Chief Guest, Mr Richard Harrington MP,spoke of Dr Ranger and his team's achievements and lauded him for acknowledging the efforts of all those who worked for him and also of his wife's great contribution to the company's success. Mr Sunny Kulathakal, Global President of GOPIO (Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin) addressed the guests and acknowledged the contribution of Dr Ranger in social and cultural arenas and encouraged others to join them in their efforts. Mr Sunny Kulathakal, Global President of GOPIO (Global Sun Mark then recognized some of its regional partners Organisation of People of Indian Origin) delivering his speech and distributors in the region who had made a significant The cricket legend Mr Muttiah Muralitharan at the event contribution to the growth and development of business. They The Rt. Hon. Richard were Sir Prince Oji Okisisi of company Prince Oji in Nigeria. Harrington MP, Mr Izzat Ullah Khan of Naveed Trading, Pakistan, Mr Vijay Under-Secretary for Aswani of Al Vihag Enterprises, Gambia and there was a the department for special award for outstanding lifetime achievement for Sheikh Business, Energy and Industrial Khalid Mahmood of Bismillah Stores of Pakistan who Strategy delivering collected his award with his son, Sheikh Omer Khalid. his speech The Vote of Thanks was given by Mr. Harmeet Ahuja, who thanked Dr. Rami Ranger and Sun Mark UK and UAE team for making the evening possible and for bringing together such a myriad of people from all over the world. ‘The formal part of the evening was then concluded, and dinner was served. 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ASTROLOGY GROCERY Astrologer Kunjvihari Pathak NEW YORK Get Astrological Guidance and Remedies for J & P GUYANA W.I. GROCERY INC. ● Education ● Job ● Business ● Marriage We carry a wide range of West Indian ● Health ● Prosperity ● Protection Grocery at low prices Contact Internationally well - known 113-17 Liberty Avenue Astrologer Kunjvihari Pathak Richmond Hill, NY 11419 Tel. (732) 500-7453 President: David Ramsawmy (Elvis) Email: [email protected] PH# 718-925-0100 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 32 TURN PAGE FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 contd from Page 1 Among those at the White House yesterday were Sens. Pat For three days, the Dubai police authorities completed Toomey, R-Pa., and Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., who are pushing various legal and medical formalities before the body was Trump calls for a comprehensive their bill-which failed twice in the Senate after the 2012 finally handed over to the Kapoor family on Tuesday Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting-to broaden afternoon. (Source: IANS) approach to Gun Laws background checks to include pre-purchase reviews at online and gun show sales. Indian government introduces law strategy that has stalled action in Congress. Giving hope to Trump asked Toomey if his plan to expand background Democrats, he said he favored a "comprehensive" approach to checks included raising the minimum age for young people to impound properties of Fugitive addressing violence like the shooting at Florida school earlier to buy an assault weapon. Toomey told the president it did this month, although he offered no specific details. not. Economic Offenders Instead, Trump appeared to support expanded background "You know why," Trump scoffed. checks. He endorsed increased school security and mental "Because you're afraid of the NRA." The Union Cabinet meet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra health resources, and he reaffirmed his support for raising the The meeting came after one major retailer, Dick's Modi also approved setting up of a National Financial Reporting age to 21 for purchasing some firearms. Sporting Goods, announced it was halting sales of assault- Authority (NFRA) as an independent regulator for the auditors. Trump also mentioned arming teachers, and said his style rifles and high-capacity magazines at all of its stores The proposed fugitive law aims to impound and sell assets of administration, not Congress, would ban bump-stock devices and banning the sale. Nirav Modi-type escapees with a view to quickly recover dues. It that enable guns to fire like automatic weapons. Meanwhile, US retail giant Walmart announced on also will apply to defaulters who have an outstanding of Rs 100 "We can't wait and play games, and nothing gets done," Thursday that it was raising to 21 its minimum age to buy crore or more and have escaped from the country. Trump said as he opened the session with 17 House and Senate firearms and ammunition, the latest US company to Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said the Bill, which will be lawmakers. recalibrate its stance on weapons after a deadly Florida taken to Parliament for approval in the second half of the "We want to stop the problems." school shooting. Budget session beginning March 5, defines a fugitive offender as The president has previously backed ideas popular with "In light of recent events, we've taken an opportunity to someone against whom a court has issued an arrest warrant for Democrats, only to back away when faced with opposition review our policy on firearm sales. Going forward, we are a scheduled offence and who leaves or has left India so as to avoid from his conservative base and his GOP (Grand Old Party) raising the age restriction for purchase of firearms and criminal prosecution, or refuses to return to India to face trial. allies in Congress. It was not clear whether he would ammunition to 21 years of age," it said in a statement. The new law is different from the Prevention of Money continue to push for swift and significant changes to gun Laundering Act, which also provides for confiscation of assets of (Source: AFP) laws, when confronted with the inevitable resistance from economic offenders, he said. his party. (Read the related story-Walmart raises to 21 minimum age Under PMLA, only profit of crime is confiscated and that too to buy firearms and ammo) Still, the televised discussion allowed Trump to play the upon conviction. The new law extends to all assets irrespective of role of potential dealmaker, a favorite for the president. whether it is acquired as a result of crime or not, he said. "This Democratic lawmakers made a point of appealing to the Queen of silver screen Sridevi is triggered by the offender being a fugitive." president to use his political power to persuade his party to "A trial of fugitive will never be complete," he said, reasoning take action. cremated with state honors why confiscation of assets has been provided for. The new law "It is going to have to be you," Senator Chris Murphy told The couple's daughters, Jahnvi and Khushi, were by his will apply "the moment warrant is issued (and) the court decides Trump. side, said sources close to the family. the man is not submitting," he added. Trump's call for stronger background checks, which are Sridevi, who gave hit Bollywood movies, including Sadma It provides for an application being made before a special popular among Americans, has been resisted by (1983), Nagina (1986), Mr. India (1987), Chaalbaaz (1989), court for a declaration that an individual is a fugitive economic Republicans in Congress and the NRA. Chandni (1989), Lamhe (1991), English Vinglish (2012) to offender, attach and confiscate his properties in India and Republicans have instead been leaning toward modest name a few, died following accidental drowning in the abroad, including benami property, and disposing them off to legislation designed to improve the background system bathtub in her hotel room in Dubai around 11 pm on recover dues. It provides for disentitlement of the fugitive already in place. Trump made clear he was looking for more Saturday, February 24 night, plunging millions of Indians economic offender from defending any civil claim. and accused lawmakers of being "petrified" of the gun lobby. and her fans all over the world in gloom as the news "If at any point of time in the course of the proceeding prior "Hey, I'm the biggest fan of the Second Amendment," emerged the next morning. to the declaration, however, the alleged Fugitive Economic Trump said, adding that he told NRA officials it's time to The actor's body was brought to the crematorium in an Offender returns to India and submits to the appropriate act. open, flower-bedecked hearse. jurisdictional Court, proceedings under the proposed Act would "We have to stop this nonsense." The state honors for the actress, who was conferred cease by law," an official statement issued after the Cabinet The White House meeting came amid fresh public debate Padma Shri in 2013, included draping her body in the meeting said. over gun laws, fueled by student survivors of the massacre Tricolor, elaborate arrangements by the Mumbai police, and The Bill has been proposed to address the lacunae in the at Florida's Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, who a gun salute before the cremation. present laws and lay down measures to deter economic offenders have been meeting with lawmakers on Capitol Hill. The According to a statement issued on behalf of the Kapoor from evading the process of Indian law by remaining outside the school reopened yesterday for the first time since a and Ayyappan families, Sridevi's body was kept for three jurisdiction of Indian courts. Valentine's Day assault killed 17. hours at the Celebrations Sports Club to enable people to The Bill makes provisions for a Court ('Special Court' under Gun legislation has lost momentum in Congress as pay their last respects. the Prevention of Money-laundering Act, 2002) to declare a Republican leaders showed little interest in pursuing The final journey commenced around 2 pm to the Vile person as a Fugitive Economic Offender. stricter gun control laws. Parle Seva Samaj Crematorium and Hindu Cemetery at SV The law, though it was announced in the Budget for 2017-18, Democrats said they were concerned Trump's interest Road in Vile Parle west, where itreached around 3.30 pm. has been hastened after Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi may fade quickly. After the meeting, Murphy, D-Conn., told Meanwhile, several thousands of mourners, including allegedly defrauded state-owned Punjab National Bank (PNB) of reporters: "I'm worried that this was the beginning and the celebrities, Bollywood personalities, politicians and Rs 12,700 crore and left the country and are refusing to cooperate end of the president's advocacy on this issue. The White business persons, grieved for the queen of the silver screen. with law enforcement agencies. House has to put some meat on the bones. The White House Since dawn of February 27, thousands of teary-eyed fans The new law will allow quicker recovery of dues through a has to send a proposal to Congress." The White House is and admirers of the late actress, many carrying flowers, had special court from such absconding offenders. expected to reveal more on the president's plans for school started queuing up outside the Celebration Sports Club at "In the last Budget, there was an announcement that the safety this week, though it has not announced any plans. Lokhandwala Complex for a final 'darshan' of their idol. government bring law to confiscate assets of fugitives under That announcement will likely include goals for After the flower-bedecked body was brought to the club economic offences. That has been approved by (the) cabinet background checks and bump stocks, though whether age premises, a steady stream of celebrities started alighting today," Jaitley said. restrictions will be specifically addressed remains unclear, from their vehicles and were whisked inside to pay their last He said the law will apply to new and old cases of persons who according to an administration official who sought respects. have fled the country to avoid prosecution. anonymity to discuss private conversations. Among the early callers were Rekha, Aishwarya Rai- All assets, not just proceeds of crime, will be confiscated of an Trump rejected the way Republican leaders in Congress Bachchan, Arbaaz Khan, Madhuri Dixit-Nene, Akshaye offender fleeing the country,he said, adding that offender cannot have framed the debate, saying the House-backed bill Khanna, Tabu, Farah Khan, Nitin Mukesh, Neil Nitin pursue any civil case in the country. linking a background check measure with a bill to expand Mukesh, Vidya Balan, Sushmita Sen, Shabana Azmi, Javed "There have been several instances of economic offenders gun rights by allowing gun owners to carry concealed Akhtar, Madhur Bhandarkar, Deepika Padukone, Sanjay fleeing the jurisdiction of Indian courts, anticipating the weapons across state lines was not the right approach. Leela Bhansali, Jackie Shroff, Farhan Akhtar, Hema Malini, commencement, or during the pendency, of criminal The concealed carry measure is the gun lobby's top Jaya Bachchan, John Abraham, Sulabha Arya, Ajay Devgn proceedings. The absence of such offenders from Indian courts legislative priority. But "you'll never get it passed," Trump and Kajol, among many others. has several deleterious consequences -- first, it hampers told lawmakers, reminding them that Democratic senators, Earlier, in the past four days since her demise, the Kapoor investigation in criminal cases; second, it wastes precious time including some in the room, strongly oppose it. household had witnessed a steady stream of visitors, of courts of law, third, it undermines the rule of law in India," Instead, he suggested Republicans should focus on the including Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Shah Rukh Khan, the statement said. background check bill, then load it up with other gun Salman Khan and Krishna Raj Kapoor, among others. Most such cases of economic offences involve non-repayment control and safety measures. Most visitors on February 27 were sporting dark of bank loans thereby worsening the financial health of the Ever the marketer, Trump suggested that the leading bill sunglasses to ward off the harsh early-summer glare, and banking sector in India. The existing civil and criminal adjusting the National Instant Criminal Background Check carrying flowers or small bouquets. They embraced and provisions in law are not entirely adequate to deal with the System-now known as "Fix NICS"-could use a new name. consoled the bereaved family members, fleeting in from the severity of the problem and so the new law provide an effective, "Maybe you change the title, all right? The US Background main entrance and out from the other side as fans tried to expeditious and constitutionally permissible deterrent to ensure Check Bill, or whatever," Trump said. catch a glimpse. that such actions are curbed. The hour-long meeting with lawmakers was reminiscent Sridevi's body was flown to Mumbai from Dubai, and from The jurisdiction of NFRA for investigation of Chartered of one in January on immigration, when he told lawmakers the airport was taken to the Kapoor residence in Green Accountants and their firms would extend to listed companies to come up with a good bill and he would take the "heat" Acres at the posh Lokhandwala Complex. and large unlisted public companies, the thresholds for which from critics. Despite the late hour, several hundreds of fans kept vigil shall be prescribed in the Rules. The Central Government can That effort, however, ended in failure in Congress amid outside the residence when a motorcade, including an also refer such other entities for investigation where public Trump's shifting views and priorities in the debate. ambulance, reached there late on Tuesday. interest would be involved. (With inputs from PTI) THEINDIANPANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 TRAVEL 33

ocated 35 kilometres from Dehradun, Mussoorie is a picturesque hill station in Lthe Indian state of Uttarakhand. The hill station is located at the foothills of the Garhawl Himalayan ranges, and is also known by its nickname “The Queen Of Hills”. The place is MUSSOORIE: HOME also known as the gateway to the “Gangotri and “Yamunotri” shrines. The best time to visit the place is between mid-March to mid- November as the rains during monsoons and cold during the winters make it pretty IN THE HILLS inaccessible. Mussoorie was originally chosen by the British as a sanatorium, with the construction of the first European house dating back to the 1820s by Captain Young. Its landscape is thus dotted with prominent, grand, heritage structures of Colonial descent. PLACES TO VISIT Mall Road The aforementioned carnival pretty much defines Mall Road. You start from the Library Chowk, which marks the beginning of Mall Road. With a public library established in 1843, just at the beginning of the thoroughfare and an ornate gazebo called Band Stand (built in 1850, it was the venue for jazz artistes and military bands during the Raj era) set on the corner for shoppers and trekkers, the road zigzags its way until the Tehri Road begins. It’s a long road, which overlaps with areas such as Camel’s Back, Landour or Kulri Bazaar, and is the most comfortable walk-through as compared to the steep slopes of a quainter Mussoorie a few kilometres away. There are endless shops selling clothes, utility items, candles, Tibetan teapots and wickerwork among others; gaming parlours keep kids entertained and photographers parade around with local costumes for you to pose in. Kulri horizon will not fail to enchant. A lighthouse Bazaar falls in the fringes of Mall Road. Once tower offers a telescope to get a closer look of done with the commercial attractions, enter the Himalayas, Banderpunch, Badrinath and the premises of Central Methodist Church, Kedarnath. A word of advice: with monsoons dating from 1885, a stunning building in grey come the leeches, so be covered and prepared if stone and white, adorned with arched you can’t avoid the season. doorways and angular roofs. Then you can take the ropeway to Gun Hill, the second highest Hathipaon: Cloud End peak in Mussoorie, instead of walking the 2km and Park Estate stretch up there. Hathipaon is the hidden treasure of Gun Hill Mussoorie. Hathipaon is known for mainly two A strategic location during Colonial times, attractions: Cloud End and the Park Estate. from where a cannon was once fired at noon Marking the end of Hathipaon, Cloud End is everyday, Gun Hill boasts a great view of enveloped by woods and has several trekking Dehradun and its surrounding ranges. trails. More significantly though, there is a fascinating in-house museum, which Camel’s Back Road comprises memorabilia such as paintings, Named after the hump-shaped rock crockery and books, among other artefacts. formations, this road spreads out in an even, Further up is Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, a part serpentine concrete path, twisting and turning of Rajaji National Park, which offers a chance alongside lush forests. The 3-km walk offers an to spot rare Himalayan birds, such as the Red uninterrupted quietude that one can usually Billed Blue Magpie or the near-extinct only dream of. Horse rides and rickshaw Mountain Quail, which reportedly inhabit the services are available at the beginning of the area. route, both excellent options. Kempty Falls Landour Kempty Falls is a magnificent waterfall and Landour is characterised by a gradual recreation area set in the lap of a green valley. waning of Mall Road’s joie de vivre and It’s a favorite hangout of local residents, who exemplifies the oft-heard aphorism, ‘quiet of come to cool off in waterholes, have fun with the hills’. The only stalls belong to vegetable relaxed boating activities and enjoy scenic and fruit vendors, along with an odd antique picnics. A British officer established Kempty store or two, shops selling walking canes and Falls in the 1830s as a place for the British Raj shoemakers selling bespoke footwear. A to hold tea parties. The waterfall’s name is spacious chowk, with the landmark Clock rumored to stem from the colloquial name of Tower Café towards the right, hints that there Camp Tea. Follow the walkways and bridges used to be a Clock Tower in Landour. that lead from the falls’ entrance to vantage Landour has been a military cantonment points. Marvel as the milky-white water since 1827 and was a health resort for wounded cascades down a cliff face before bouncing off soldiers who were looked after by nurses, thus rocks and into a manmade waterhole. Admire giving the main Landour cantonment its name, the verdant foliage that frames both sides of Sisters’ Bazaar. Cosy houses appear cuddled up the waterfall. Listen to the invigorating sounds against the backdrop of dense pines and moss- of the rushing water, which mingles with the laden cemented railings as you stroll towards excited cheering of visitors. Sisters’ Bazaar. Mussoorie has a host of shopping options for stores and tiny shops selling trinkets and maps from that era. You will also find army keen buyers. Connected by the serpentine Mall knick-knacks. Owing to its British legacy, the memorabilia, books, silver jewellery as well as Lal Tibba Road, which is the busiest shopping area, you various antique shops become an interesting toys. Wooden items can be found at a bargain, The view of the postcard-perfect snow- can make your way to Kurli Bazaar and stop for those who treasure postcards, and the famous handcrafted oak walking sticks capped peaks and the evanescent misty Landour Bazaar to find the usual branded furniture, advertisements on tinned cans and make good gifts. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 34 SPORTS FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018

Special Report by 23rd Olympic Winter Games at Prabhjot Singh in PyeongChang PyeongChang end on a bright note, as Norway heads tally with a record number of medals

CONTD FROM PAGE 1 The South Koreans The 2018 Olympic Games had many highs and lows as had their best-ever politics took the center stage at the start with the North Korea medal haul at the Olympic Winter joining South Korea in fielding a unified Women's Ice Hockey Games with 16 (five gold, seven silver, team besides sending a strong contingent, including cheer four bronze). As expected, Korean speed skaters were most leaders, besides a high-powered political delegation. effective winning 13 of the medals, seven long track, six in While many participating nations, including Norway, short. In the latter Choi Minjeong was a double gold medalist. Canada and the hosts Korea had every reason to cheer about, it As mentioned earlier, Japan, the host of the next Olympic was not so sweet for the US, both on sports and political fronts. summer Games in 2020, did well to win 13 medals (four gold, Its athletes could not perform that well as was expected and five silver, four bronze). It is perhaps the best-ever show by politically, the North Korean presence in the Games at every Nippon as it was helped by Yuzuru Hanyu becoming the first forum was perhaps a thorn in its flesh. back-to-back Olympic men's figure skating champion since While the Vice-President of the United States, Governor- American Dick Button did it in 1948 and 1952. General of Canada, Prime Ministers of Japan, Norway and the Athletes from the United States may not like to remember Netherlands witnessed the opening ceremony, it was Ivanka President of the International Olympic Committee Thomas these Games for their laurels. Though they dethroned their Bach, President of South Korea Moon Jae-in, North Korea's Trump, daughter of the US President, who was cynosure of all neighbors and arch rivals Canada in women's Ice Hockey final delegation leader Kim Yong Chol and Ivanka Trump, senior in a shoot out, their medal count down from 28 four years ago eyes at the closing ceremony. White House adviser, attend the closing ceremony. Participation of North Korea may have stalled the threats of Photo /courtesy Reuters to 23 in Korea. Nonetheless, nine gold medals cannot be a global nuclear confrontation emanating from the war of discounted, including two Olympic titles that Canada held words between the US and North Korea, the situation since Turin 2006: men's curling and women's hockey. threatened to relapse into pre-Olympic times as the US insisted Though the Russians remained in spate of controversies on imposing strong sanctions against the North Koreans. throughout the Games, they had something to cheer about too. There was, however, a bright spot when North Korea offered At these Games their biggest highlight by far was the to have a dialogue with the United States. How the Trump women's figure skating showdown between Alina Zagitova and Administration reacts to the offer will be known in coming Evgenia Medvedeva. The two teens finished first and second, days. respectively, with Zagitova becoming the second youngest Whatever be the political outcome of the barbs of the World Olympic women's figure skating champion at 15 years and 281 leaders, the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympic Games were days, just 26 days older than Tara Lipinksi of the United States not without controversies. Starting with suspension of the who still holds that record. The Olympic Athletes from Russia Russian Olympic Committee and imposition of ban on 50-odd leave Korea with 17 medals. Russian athletes for being part of a concerted campaign to They had requested the IOC for permission to participate in evade Doping control violations during the 2014 Olympic the closing ceremony with Russian flag. The Russians were Winter Games at Sochi, two Russian athletes, including a allowed to compete here as a neutral team and the IOC flag Exquisite Fireworks Photo/ Courtesy CNN bronze medalist in mixed Curling, were banned after testing under the banner of Olympic Athlete Russia. Their request to positive for banned substances. participate in closing ceremony with Russian flag was, The Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), that has its headquarters however, turned down and the IOC reiterated with the in Montreal, Canada, had set up two special Commissions in suspension. PyeongChang that heard appeals of 50-odd banned Russian Arguably the most impressive individual performance of athletes and rejected all upholding the right of the PyeongChang belonged to Ester Ledecka. The Czech Olympian International Olympic Committee to decide the eligibility shocked the winter sports world by winning the women's criteria for participation in the Games. super-G on skis reportedly borrowed from American Mikaela The Games were perhaps the coldest after Lillehammer. The Shiffrin (herself a gold medalist in the giant slalom). last two editions - Sochi (2014) and Vancouver (2010) were held Primarily a snowboarder, Ledecka doubled her golden tally in a little warmer weather than freezing cold and windy taking the women's parallel giant slalom, becoming the first PyeongChang. woman to win gold in two different sports at one Olympic Norway finished at the top of the medals tally. Games. Hers were the only two gold medals for the Czechs. The 39 medals won by it is an all-time Winter Games record Some non-traditional winter sports countries often manage by any country. With 14 gold medals, they matched Germany's to find one athlete who can dominate a particular discipline. first place totals, and byvirtue of another 14 silver and 11 For the Brits, that's Lizzy Yarnold. The skeleton racer repeated bronze, the Games of PyeongChang 2018 belonged to Norway. as Olympic champion, in the process becoming the nation's Unsurprisingly, the Norwegians were most prolific in cross- first winter athlete to win two Olympic gold. Britain also saw Bye, Bye 2018 Winter Olympic Games at PyeongChang country skiing - the nation's top medal contributor with 14 - led its first-ever winter double podium with Laura Deas delivering by Marit Bjoergen. She took five in Korea (two gold, a silver, athlete in PyeongChang to end with three medals, a silver and skeleton bronze. and two bronze) for 15 overall in her career. The 37-year-old is two bronze medals. Martin Fourcade won a hat-trick of gold medals in biathlon. the most decorated winter Olympian of all-time, and rightly it The Netherlands won allits 20 medals (eight gold, six silver The most impressive athlete on the planet in this discipline, was her win in the very last event at PyeongChang that lifted and bronze) in speed skating (16 on the big oval, and four in the Frenchman has been on top of the podium five times (a Norway over Germany. short track). Of note, Jorien ter Mors made the podium in both French Olympic record) counting a double gold at Sochi 2014. The official Olympic medal table ranks countries in order of disciplines, winning gold in the women's 1000m on the oval, He's now up to seven Olympic biathlon medals at the age of 29. most gold acquired. To that end, Germany had top spot in its and joining her short track teammates to take the 3000m relay Other notable national achievements included New Zealand grasp but for conceding a shorthanded goal to Olympic bronze. and Spain ending winter medal droughts dating back to 1992, Athletes from Russia in the men's hockey final with while Hungary ended an even longer wait going back less than a minute to go. The Russian team went on to to 1980 by taking the 5000m short track relay gold. win the hockey final, leaving Germany second in the Staying with short track, Italy's Arianna Fontana medal standings. became the most decorated Olympic speed skater in With 14, Germany tied Norway, and Canada's her discipline with three more podiums taking her to record from Vancouver 2010 for most gold medals eight, and Belarus' Darya Domracheva added to her won by a country at a single Winter Games. They illustrious career becoming the first woman to win added 10 silver and seven bronze medals for 31 four Olympic gold medals in biathlon. overall. Massive contribution to the German cause India's two-member contingent returned home came from Francesco Friedrich (bobsleigh) and without a medal. Shiva Keshawan finished 34th in Natalie Geisenberger (luge), each winning two gold Luge while Jagdish Singh in cross country skiing medals. was placed 103rd in a field of 119. Canada has every reason to be pleased with its In all six new nations, including Malaysia, made performance here as it also has a record haul of their debut in Olympic Winter Games here. Besides, medals. Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir team were the there were at least half a dozen athletes who earned darlings of the Canadian contingent with their golds the distinction of representing their countries both both in Team Figure Skating and Ice Dancing. Kim in summer and winter editions of Olympic Games. - Boutin with three medals became the only Canadian Courtesy PTC News Will meet again in 2022 in Beijing Photo / courtesy Olympic THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 ADVERTISEMENT 35 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 36 ADVERTISEMENT FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018