Asia Today, LLC, 1050 E Ray Road, Suite 5 #318, Chandler, AZ 85225 SIA • August 2013 ATODAY 1 Phoenix, AZ PERMIT NO.1714 Uniting all South Asians in the Valley

Monthly Newspaper • Vol-VI • Issue-8 • Phone : 480-250-2519 • [email protected] • August 2013

U.S. Shahid The Passing of CONGRESS 5 Zarrinath Award PRAISES Kapoor plays of the Cultural INDIA PLAZA Salman Khan fan Cup Food Bank ON ITS 10TH in Phata Poster 12 ANNIVERSARY Nikla Hero 32 10thAnniversary of the INDO-AMERICAN CULTURAL & RELIGIOUS FOUNDATION CELEBRATES MURTI RathYatra Festival at the STAPHANA & PRAN PRATISHTHA OF PADMAVATI JI & SARASWATI JI Hindu Temple Of Arizona he Indo-American Cultural & TReligious Foundation of Arizona (IACRF) is extremely proud to mark another major milestone as a part ofour Silver Jubilee celebration. We are honored to announce the Murti Staphana and Pran Pratishtha of Padmavati ji / Mahalaxmi (Goddess of Wealth) and Mata Saraswati ji (Goddess of Wisdom) on July 26 -28, 2013 at Ekta Mandir. This remarkable event was n Sunday, July 14th, 2013, the Hin- made possible thanks to the Odu Temple of Arizona and it’s sister generosity of numerous sponsors organization, Oriya Association of Ari- zona, partnered together to celebrate andvolunteers. Over 1000 devotees the 10th • Continued on P6 a t t e n d e d • More images on P03

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www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz Continued from page 1 SIA • August 2013 ATODAY 3 INDO-AMERICAN CULTURAL & RELIGIOUS FOUNDATION CELEBRATES MURTI STAPHANA & PRAN PRATISHTHA OF PADMAVATI JI & SARASWATI JI

this 3-day celebrations! Vasudeva & Satyavathi Atluri and and Joshiji deserve special thanks and has made this memorable event Firstly, I would like to thank the Vijay & Mamta Vijayasarthi who for their excellent performance to very successful! Murti Staphana Committee, which were Pramukh Yajman (main help make this an outstanding event Thanks to my family and friends consisted of VasudevaAtluri, Uma sponsors) of our three day special in the history of IACRF. Thanks also for their continual support during Jagannath, Mamta Vijayasarathi, event. Also, I would like to thank the go to IACRF Manager, Ramalingamji my second term as President of Mahesh Shah, and myself. This Prasad committee, led by Mamta and our custodian Gabriel fortheir Indo-American Cultural & Religious team was instrumental in bringing Vijayasarathi, for serving Maha dedication and hard work! Foundation (IACRF).I look forward to this dream to realty. Special thanks to Prasad to the devotees. A final thanks to all the members serving theIndo-American community VasudevaAtluri, IACRF Trustee, who My special thanks to our Priests of Indo-American Cultural & Religious for many more years to comewith worked very hard on many aspects of Vardarajanji & Joshiji and their Foundation (IACRF) who attended great pride. May Padmavatiji and construction and coordination with all helping priests for planning and and supported the Murti Staphana Saraswati ji bless you all. committee members. performing several auspicious rituals and Pran Pratishtha event. Their (From the desk of IACRF IACRF would like to thank during the ceremony. Varadarajanji presence was highly appreciated President KulBhushan Chhibber)

www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA From the Desk of Asia Today ATODAY 4 • August 2013 A Balanced Upbringing that in folklore, as in life, everyone but the Uniting all South Asians in the Valley As summer comes to an end, we are heroine is a capable being.” all focused on school starting again and As we strive to fight for gender Monthly Newspaper • Vol-VI • Issue-8 • August 2013 • [email protected] looking forward to our children getting a equality, we fail to see that we are not great education in the country of equal surrounding our children with equality in Asia Today Team opportunities. We take it for granted that in heroes and heroines to model their lives the US , the land of equal rights, our children after. We are still stuck on teaching boys to Marketing Director: Manju will get a balanced upbringing regardless of Editor’s be the Prince Charming that comes rescues (Manjeet K Walia) gender. We fail to realize that children are the damsel in distress and teaching girls to raised in homes and not countries and it is NOTE be the damsels in distress to wait patiently Editor: Deepa Walia (MS CIS) what we choose to surround them with that for their hero to arrive. If you have boys in (Sandeep Kaur) influences them the most. your life you love, whether they are sons, nephews, or The easiest of those things is the art of storytelling children of friends, teach them to respect and not rescue Publisher & Designer: and the stories you choose to tell them because they women, teach them to treat women like capable, equal Raja (BA) relate to these characters. In an eye opening foreword partners. And if you have beautiful, capable, little girls, (Gagandeep Singh Walia) for Kathleen Ragan’s book “Fearless Girls, Wise teach them to ride out on their own high horses and take Women, and Beloved Sisters” Jane Yolen highlights on the world instead of waiting for a Knight on a white Patron: Mini from California how inequality is still prevalent in the most influential horse. Children relate to the characters in the stories (Damanjot Kaur Walia) years of a child’s life. Quotes from her foreword “... we share with them so if you believe strongly in equality, they regularly subverted and subsumed the stories that make sure there is equality in your bookshelves at home Jyoti from New Jersey starred string and illustrious female heroes, promoting – an equal amount of stories and folk tales showcasing (Navjot Kaur Singh) instead those stories that shared women as weak or strong, capable heroines as there are stories of strong, witless or, at the very best, waiting prettily with infinite capable heroes. If you can accomplish that, you will be Surinder Singh Pall one step ahead of your local library. (Reporter from New Jersey) patience to be rescued. A hundred years later, the same thing happened. Walt Disney, with his groundbreaking One of my favorites which I recently discovered, fairy tale films, re-emphasized the helpless, hapless mentioned earlier in this article, is Kathleen Ragan’s Press Photographer heroine who he posited has to be rescued by mice, “Fearless Girls, Wise Women, and Beloved Sisters – Sameer Soorma birds, rabbits, deer, and other assorted cute fauna, or by Heroines in Folktales from Around the World.” Happy www.sameersoorma.com a bunch of half-men, or dwarfs. The young women are Reading! Amit Mitter like helpless ornaments in need of protection, and when - Deepa Kaur Walia (Reporter from Punjab, India) it comes to action of the film, they are omitted. We, the Editor, Asia Today reading and viewing public, then accepted whole cloth [email protected] Disclaimer s the summer winds down, I see this,” “why do I get angry,” endian events around Asia Today, LLC is not responsible Aa lot of my friends and family etc. Many people believe the corner. India Asso- for any claims made by advertisers coming back into town. It’s very easy we might come back to this ciation is kicking us off nor does it endorse any product or to take individuals for granted, but earth again, but everything with India Night, and we services advertised in the paper. when they are gone is when we truly will be changed. Treat this have the mela season For concerns or questions related realize how important they are to us. life as if it was your last – upcoming and not to for- to these advertisements, please Some people say life is very short the people you know, the get we end with Discover contact the business directly. and others say very long. I fall on the family which you love, the India.The festivities are side of that life is too long. When life friends you cannot live Publisher’s almost here and I can is fun and you’re happy it seems as without will all eventually already hear conversa- Asia Today, LLC also does not if the days go by with the wind, but fade. You will come back NOTE tions about dances and endorse any views presented by when you are sad or get upset with (if you believe it) to this performances and kids volunteer writers. Those views are the little things in life, life becomes existence, this planet, or who knows setting up there dance troupe meet- solely of the author and bear no long. We read into little things and where, but you will not recognize ings. It’s good to see that generations indication to the views of Asia Today. make them into bigger things; those who you are. It’s true we only have are getting more and more involved things ruin relationship and tear one life to live; the person you are in the cultural events happening In Please contact us at apart friendships. Friends become now might never exist again and the Arizona. I’ve been in Arizona for distant, distance breeds loneliness, people you know might never exist over 10 years now and seeing the Asia Today, LLC loneliness breeds sadness, and in again. In that life, we won’t care or change is like night and day. It’s good 1050 E Ray Road this sadness is where we stay – a know the difference but we do now to see everyone in the community Suite 5 #318 circle that is a never ending cycle of and this is the life we have to see to getting involved and helping shape Chandler, AZ 85225 misery for no one else but ourselves. the end whenever that will be. Clear the future of our culture in Arizona. 480/ 250-2519 Eventually this misery leads to hate, the misunderstandings, cherish the Good luck to everyone and may all whether it is towards yourself or times, cherish your friends, cherish your hard work pay off. I can’t wait to others, including things that made yourself, and cherish this life! Once see what new amazing decorations, For sale inquiries: you happy or smile before. The big- your new beginning starts, you won’t dance performances and of course [email protected] gest enemy in this world that we will even know what you will be missing, FOOD! is going to be happening ever go against and ever encounter but you are not there yet so live this this year. For additional is our own self. If we have no clue life to the fullest! -Raja Walia about who we are and what makes Well summer is almost over inquires/comments: Publiser, Asia Today [email protected] us think or act or even ask the most so you know what that means… important question of all “why do I do get ready for the tons upon tons of [email protected] www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz Local Coverage SIA • August 2013 ATODAY 5 U.S. CONGRESS PRAISES INDIA PLAZA ON ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY ndia Plaza has again been noted in the Congressional Record in Washington, ID.C. — the second time in just four years that the Tempe, Arizona, shopping, restaurant and cultural center has been so honored by the U.S. Congress. As part of its 10th anniversary serving the Valley of the Sun, U.S. Rep. KyrstenSinema, (D, 9) prepared a tribute for India Plaza, which was entered into the Congressional Record in Washington, D.C., this past April. In 2009, India Plaza was also honored with a Congressional Record entry by then U.S. Rep. Harry Mitchell. To thank the community, owners Raveen and Clara Arora held “India Plaza Night” April 14, 4–6 p.m., in conjunction with the New Year’s festival of Baisakhi, celebrated in Punjab. For this event, the city of Tempe declared April 14th India Plaza Day for the center’s 10 years of success and community service. Representing Mayor Mark Mitchell and the city, Vice Mayor OnnieSherkerjian read the proclamation, and a letter from U.S. Sen. Jeff Flake was also read. In addition, state Sen. Ed Ableser (D, 26) read a proclamation that he and state Rep. Juan Mendez (D, 26) pre- pared. A proclamation from Arizona Governor Jan Brewer was also presented. For its work in the community, India Plaza has won many awards: Best of Phoenix, Best of the East Valley, Best of the Light Rail, Tempe’s Good Neighbor of the Year, Honorable Mention. The business has also been a nominee for the National Restaurant Association Good Neighbor award and Most Ethical Busi- ness award from the Better Business Bureau. And, India Plaza has donated ap- proximately $200,000 to charities and community groups during its first decade. “From the day we opened in April 2003, we have wanted it to be a multicultural meeting place and a window to India for the Arizonans — a center for education, compassion, the celebration of diversity and community involvement,” Raveen says. Open seven days a week, 11 a.m.–9 p.m., India Plaza is the Valley’s one- stop destination for Indian food, culture and products. The campus — “Where India Comes Alive!” — includes the widely awarded Dhaba restaurant, a snacks café, cooking school, a food market offering herbs and spices difficult to find else- where, a gift boutique and beauty salon which offers, among its services, yoga classes and traditional arts of threading and henna application.

restaurant Well equipped, well maintained turnkey fully oper- ational 2000 square feet (Can be expanded to 3000), restaurant is available for Lease, located in a small strip center on Cave Creek Road between Thunder- bird Rd. and Greenway. The restaurant has full size kitchen can be used for catering. Restaurant is li- censed and is approved for liquor License. Zoning is C-2. If interested, give me a call at 602-482-3700. www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA Continued from page 1 ATODAY 6 • August 2013 10thAnniversary of the RathYatra Festival at the Hindu Temple Of Arizona (HTA)

anniversary of Rath Yatra festival. Each year, hundreds of devotees and volunteers in Arizona pull a single handcraft- ed chariot that carries the three gods – Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabadra, and Goddess Subhadra- onto the streets around the neighborhood of the Hindu Temple of Arizona in the sweltering heat to show their devotion. This year, more excitement for the event was generated by the construc- tion of a new Rath (chariot) by the temple volunteers, who spent countless hours drilling, hammering, and creating a memorable vehicle. The intricate weaving of the fabric covers, and the color shades and patterns made the chariot truly magnifi- cent. After completion of the Haavan, Jagannath Puja, Pa- handiBijaya and CheraPahunra at the temple’s premises, the Rath procession started around 9:45 AM and returned back to the Temple around 11:00 AM. This was followed by a Cultural Program, Puja and MahaAarti. This annual event was only made possible by the volunteers and devo- tees, which ensured another milestone in the long history of the HTA. With the celebration of this festival, the Hindu Temple of Arizona continues in its tradition to educate the public on the rich Hindu heritage that has made a niche in the greater Phoenix area of Arizona.

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www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA Local Thoughts ATODAY 8 • August 2013 Real-estate sector in Arizona Hello Friends! buyers’ will make up between 25 and side- foot industrial building was constructed Vacation time is over and it’s back 30 percent of home sales this year Potato Barn Unique Home Furnish- in 1987 on 7.1 acres. Kodiak Fresh to school now! in metropolitan Phoenix. Like others ings, the family owned and operated Produce is a Phoenix-based wholesale Real Estate is holding better than looking, these buyers hope to secure furniture retail store, signed a lease for produce company serving restaurant, ever in the valley, it’s a breather to know, a mortgage and house before interest 34,613 square feet at Scottsdale 101, retail and institution businesses with that the rising home values and a bet- rates and prices rise. located at 7000 E. Mayo Blvd. in Phoe- fresh fruits and vegetables. The tenant ter job market is helping to cut down on Another good news is that Arizona nix, taking the former Circuit City space will utilize the space as a new retail and the number of distressed homes in the regulators have given Tucson Electric at the retail center. It will be relocating warehouse location when it opens in Phoenix area. Housingwire reports on Power Co. the green light to purchase from its former location in the Pavilions March 2014. how much the Phoenix housing market electricity generated by a planned wind at Talking Stick. They also has an addi- Beazer Homes Holdings Corp. has changed in recent years, and how and solar farm near Willcox. The ACC tional store in Gilbert, located off Power acquired 62.75 acres in Phoenix, AZ many fewer foreclosures are occurring approved the 20-year power purchase Road and Ray Road. for $9.5 million, or about $151,000 per now. agreement between the utility and Red Starwood Capital Group, a global acre. The vacant land is comprised of In 2009, lenders took title to 4,203 Horse Wind. Construction is expected real estate investment firm based in 177 improved residential lots located at single-family properties at foreclosure to start later this year, with the farm go- Greenwich, CT, closed on the purchase the southeast corner of S. 43rd Ave. and auctions in Phoenix. Fast forward to ing online sometime in 2014. It will be of the InTown Suites company and W. Baseline Rd. in Maricopa County. June 2013, and that number has plum- the first utility-scale project of its kind in related real estate assets for a gross So friends, our housing market is meted to 278. I still see advertisements southern Arizona. price of $735 million, including the in the final stages of transition from a saying thousands of lender-owned prop- Now lets look at the June sales of assumption of $609 million of existing market dominated by distressed sales erties are going to flood the market, just Residential Homes in Maricopa County - mortgage debt. to a traditional market. not the Greater Phoenix market. Sure, • Total sales for single-family, Westport Properties, Inc., which A s a l w a y s , there was a time when we had cheap Town-homes, Condos for June was operates U.S. Storage, acquired the would love to hear properties, but that time has passed. 7,190 whereas May was 8,310 and April Storage Max facility at 9304 N. 43rd Ave. from you, thanks Four years ago 86,315 single-family was 6,358 in Glendale, AZ from Glendale Storage for your comments properties in Greater Phoenix went • The Active listings for June was Group, Ltd. for $4.29 million, or more and please let me into the foreclosure process leading to 15,282 whereas May was 15,535 and than $29 per square foot. The single- know if you have a downturn. In the first six months of April was 15,818 story storage facility was built in 1987 any questions, you 2013, only 8,776 properties went into • Pending sales for June was and has a listed gross building area of can reach me at foreclosure, that is about 10 percent. 7,554 whereas May was 8,731and April 146,016 square feet. [email protected] or 480.242.8573. With the housing market in recovery was 9,659 Kodiak Fresh Produce has acquired Disclaimer: This article makes no representation or mode, buyers who lost homes to fore- • Cash closing were 2,670 the industrial building at 6024 W. South- warranties of any kind as to the accuracy of the data. The closure or short sales are returning to whereas, conventional closings were ern Ave. in Laveen, AZ from Dermody source of data has been taken from several sources such the market. 2,803 and FHA closings were 1,290 Family LP I for $1.4 million, or about $48 as wall street journal, Armls, Cromford Report, Costar, AZCentral reports that ‘boomerang Now Lets look at the Commercial per square foot. The 29,000-square- Globest and BizJournal, Newgeni, Realtor.org, RBI.

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Contibuted by: Bhagubhai Patel titled “Seven Usual Places to Retire”. Bollywood nights. At ShantiNik- with 1000-1200 square feet area and “Peacewood” anyone? Surprisingly the article covers an item etan in Tavares, Fla., Indian-American an attached covered garage. The Bollywood Nights: that we are very much interested called retirees age 55 and older can immerse units will be equipped with kitchen and “Money” magazine in May 28, 2013 “Bollywood Nights”; read on - is related themselves in Indian culture. “Trans- laundry. In addition, there will be a issue has an article by Emily Brandon to “Bollywood” or “Peacewood”:::: lated to ‘abode of peace’ in Sanskrit, multi-purpose building with a common it’s a gated condo community for In- kitchen and an auditorium suitable for dian-Americans,” says Jan Cullinane, 300 people sitting. The environment author of “The Single Woman’s Guide around housing units and within the to Retirement.” There’s plenty of In- secured area will be as per prospective dian food on offer, including a number residents. The facility will be designed, of vegetarian options. There’s also a and constructed as per national codes prayer room where bhajans are held and as per City of Phoenix require- each evening and an auditorium that ments. plays Bollywood and other foreign lan- Time is an essence of this venture. guage movies every night after din- The real property prices in Phoenix ner. The first 54 condos, completed in Area are rising. This is a rare opportu- 2011, sold for between $130,000 and nity to have an independent residential $160,000. unit within city limits at a reasonable A second development is under price. construction with an expected comple- We already have a land plot under tion date of 2014, and the condos are consideration which looks very feasible estimated to sell for between $160,000 for our project. For detail information and $185,000. “It’s a place where one contact Prakash Deshmukh at Tel# comes for their soul,” says Iggy Igna- 602-690-7301, Bhagubhai Patel at tius, founder of ShantiNiketan. “Pure Tel# 602-524-9658 and Lalitbhai Patel vegetarian food, yoga and meditation at Tel# 480-286-0416. is the lifestyle here.” Above mentioned article on “Mon- Don’t you think we should have ey” magazine may be accessed at our own “Shantiniketan, Phoenix”? If http://money.usnews.com/money/re- you think so, please join your hands tirement/articles/2013/05/28/7-unusu- – not to clap – but to develop a resi- al-places-to-retire dential campus for the Seniors!! Few Thursday Gatherings: phoenix Indo-American Seniors have We feel typical summer doldrums started developing a project – items as many members are away from town under discussions are: Residence ca- – visiting Family and Friends or vaca- pacity, Unit sizes, Amenities, Location tioning at their dream locations. Hence considerations, Affordability, Launch with lower attendance members have strategy, Financial feasibility, etc. etc. opportunity to get to know each other Initial thoughts are as under: very well. The proposed development will be Lunch sponsors for month of July a secured gated community. The de- were Manjulaben Patel and Rasikaben velopment will include 60 units, each & Shreekant Vaidya. www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz SIA • August 2013 ATODAY 11

SHREE KRISHNA JANMASTAMI FESTIVAL 28TH AUGUST 2013 Event Date : 08-28-2013 SHRI KRISHNA JANMASTAMI FESTIVAL Wednesday August 28th 2013 Program 6.30 pm -1.00am * Arati * Ecstatic Kirtan * Radha krishna Jhulan * Maha kalash Abhiseka bathing ceremony * Cultural program * Krishna katha by Amala Bhakta Prabhu * Sumptuous Prasadam Special Midnight Maha Arati Maha prasadam 12.40 am, prasadam will be served 7.30pm on words Appearance of lord Balaram

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh

The Arizona Sikh Sangat is graciously informed that the reputed Raagi Jetha of

BHAI SURINDER SINGH JI JODHPURI, HAZOORI RAAGI JETHA, SRI HARMANDIR SAHIB JI, INDIA Has kindly agreed to perform Kirtan Seva in ALL the THREE PHOENIX GURDWARA SAHIBS from August 9th through 11th as per program below:-

GURDWARA SAHIB, GURDWARA NISHKAAM SEVA FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, 2013 from 7:00 to 8:30 PM GURDWARA SAHIB, ARIZONA SIKH GURDWARA SATURDAY, AUGUST 10, 2013 from 7:00 to 8:30 PM GURDWARA SAHIB, GURU NANAK DWARA SUNDAY, AUGUST 11, 2013 from 11 AM to 1:00 PM

We humbly request the entire Sikh Community to let us all collectively seek blessings of Akaal Purukh by attending ALL KIRTAN DARBARS and listen to the Divine Shabad Kirtan from an internationally recognized Raagi Jetha For more information please contact: Suminder Singh Sodhi 623-332-2266 Dr. Jaswant Singh Sachdev 602-315-7411 Sharanjit Kaur Saini 623-516-1413 Dr. Jagwinder Singh Sraow 480-580-6251 Darshan Singh Gill 623-570-3542 Hardip Singh Sodhi 480-794-0325 www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA Local Thoughts ATODAY 12 • August 2013 The Passing of Zarrinath Award of the Cultural Cup Food Bank Her Integrity, Productivity, Compassion and Honorable Perseverance

Engaging her mission, fighting starvation A Husbands Dream The helpers or homeless, appropriate inspiration Auntie Zarinah, grand children being served Family or not, their voices were heard Speaking at prisons, an early profession Supporting where necessary, a woman of balance Replenishing many lives, her daily confession An amazing worker, confronting the challenge Departing this world, submitting to Cancer A soul of gold, a legacy told For so many people, Zarinah was the answer The Cultural Cup Food Bank, Zarinah was bold The Cultural Cup founder, the amazing Food Bank And so for her accomplishments, we never say die Seeking Allah’s Blessings, the highest of ranks A servant of the people, as they joyfully cry Oh what a servant, a pioneer, a mother Zarinah for sure, rising above Zarinah for sure, was like no other Zarinah in death, we continue to love Friends and loved ones, lifting her high Purpose and posture, with focus and aim Delivering her deeds, without deny Zarinah in Paradise, Hall of Fame Born to be a winner, earning her place An awesome continuation, Sabiha Keskin Engaging all people, beyond their race The Cultural Cup Food Bank, structured to win Mexican, Irish, Jewish or other So again may Zarinah receive relief Regardless of status, inspired to recover Enjoying Allah’s Paradise, while resting in peace A magnificent human being, committed to make friends [May Allah reward her for her extraordinary deeds] Zarinah Awad, setting the trend Seen with her cane, wheelchair or walker Special Note Zarinah in action, more than a talker Sabihah and Zarinah together made the neces- Frequently smiling, a woman of care sary sacrifices to keep the Bringing to society, comfort to spare Food Bank going for ap- Beyond the ordinary a woman of class proximately ten (10) years A servant of Allah, her deeds will last without proper financial Wherever she went, so many amazed support. Therefore, as we Engaging her journey, many roads she paved remember Zarinah for her At the farmers market, prepared to serve magnificent dedication, Effectively giving food deserved let us maintain the vision Expanding the definition of character impact that she and Sabiha es- Moving forward, not having to look back tablished without wavering Advancing the desire to be a provider from our duty to continue to send funds. As the new Serving from her soul with others beside her director, Sabiha is highly qualified and trustworthy Conscious volunteers eager to assist for the task that’s now upon her. The greatness of Zarinah at the top of the list As Zarinah’s husband for six (6) years I, Earning the title the Mother of Peace Habibullah Saleem, know for a fact that’s the way Heartfelt charity she constantly released she wanted it. Email: [email protected] Never complaining just grabbing her cane www.culturalcup.com The Cultural Cup Food Bank to gain and maintain Free medical each Saturday, professionals at work A servant of the people aware and alert Honoring families including her own Oh what a woman, sharing her throne An excellent wife for Habibullah Saleem Together in struggle, completing her dream Seen at her desk, computer in motion Thanksgiving turkeys, her yearly devotion Halal a priority, food or drink For comments or concerns, contact: Habibullah Saleem at Establishing the Wow, Zarinah would think [email protected] Attending events, committed to prayer www.futureimpact.weebly.com Walker or wheelchair, Zarinah was there By Habibullah Saleem www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz SIA • August 2013 ATODAY 13

August 1 to August 31

August 1 to August 31

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1. Maestro Saigal Recital by Gokulji and Singing by Shrikantbhai! 2. Sponsors of the luncheon on July 23rd 2013 3. Group celebrations of birthdays and anniversaries in July 4. July 9th Luncheon sponsors – Thakorbhai & Kapilaben Patel 5. Happy bunch of seniors posing with smiles! 6. July 2nd Luncheon Sponsors - Mannubhai & Shardaben jointly with Manjuben Govin7. Cake-cutting by Shashikantbhai on his 70th Birthday with Family and friends at ISAA! 8. Tribute to Anilbhai Desai by ISAA with “Bhajans” by Har- shaben with a few words by Narayanbhai Ojha 9. Indiraben Parikh & Family sponsored July 16th luncheon

n June 25, 2013, it was a day of tragic events in Yarnell. All observed On July 23, 2013, Shrikantbhai their “lifetime experiences” to inspire Omixed celebrations. First ISAA a minute of silence in the memory of started the musical morning when he graduate program students and re- seniors offered Shri Anilbhai Desai nineteen “Fallen” young firemen who presented Rasikaben’s favorite songs searchers to undertake projects en- their sweet remembrances as he left lost their lives. Adults and children are on her 71st birthday. Deviben, Usha- abling to face the emerging new chal- his family and friends in an untimely requested to take proper safety pre- ben and Meenaben added their sweet lenges. departure from this earthly abode. A cautions when enjoying the fireworks tunes. It was also a great welcome • A large number of ISAA mem- special tribute – “shradhanjali” was on July 04. On July 09, 2013, over sixty back for Gokoolji when he crooned bers and guests extended their ap- presented through melodious voice of members and guests were busy social- Saigal’s popular songs for the audi- preciation to ALL firefighters through Harshaben, and Vrinda as they sang izing. Card players were happy with ence. Everyone enjoyed very much. their contributions for $950 plus some bhajans invoking the almighty and ask- their card games as it was an oppor- The event today was sponsored by Ra- households towards--nineteen Fire- ing for his mercy so that Anilbhai’s soul tunity with no distractions. Ramanbhai sikaben, Mandaben with the help from men’s Fund. enjoys the peace and tranquility with entertained with a few short jokes, so Deviben. Over seventy members and • An update on the ISAA mem- progress towards “wholeness”. In the did Isha Vashist. Harbansji & Deviben guests had great time. bership and finances as of June 30th second half, Harshadbhai joined in sang a few sweet bhajans. Kapilaben Announcements: 2013 was shared. presenting sweet rendering of songs. rendered a couple of “Dada Bhagwan” • Drink plenty of water and carry • ISAA was briefed on the sad Nearly 120 attendees wished Sha- bhajans. Members and guests en- a water bottle when leaving home in event of Raj & Sharda Gambhir’s shikantbhai “happy seventieth” which joyed today’s home-made luncheon by hot weather. grandson’s condition and requested all included his loving family and other Kapilaben and Thakorbhai who spon- • Save electricity and avoid us- to pray for his recovery from the neuro- friends as guests had a great fun-day. sored the occasion. ing plastic bags to save earth & envi- logical surgery. The delicious food was sponsored by On July 16, 2013, the movie “ ronment. • The news and concern over Shahikantbhai as he looks ahead for Aamdani Athanni & Kharcha Rupaiya” • Excellent response of $433 the use of uncooked curry leaves in success in life beyond. kept the audience roaring with laugh- plus some direct on-line payments for chutney which caused a great deal of On July 02, 2013, Wow, what a ter once it got underway right at 10:30. possibly nearly 5000 meals to home- hardships. It is very critical to WASH all day of peace and quiet. Last several People just kept streaming in through- less, were received from ISAA mem- the green herbs thoroughly before use weeks it has been just celebrations- out. Those who did not get there on bers for making a donation to St Mary’s to avoid any micro issues. birthdays, wedding anniversaries, time missed a lot. Although it was a long Food Bank as desired by Anilbhai’s • The ISAA is planning a dinner- graduations etc. So it was nice and movie, majority enjoyed it. It was also a family (www.firstfoodbank.org). dance gala, adults only, on September relaxing. People gathered at the tables day of celebration of birthdays and an- • For safety of the dear ones, it 20, 2013 to raise funds for the asso- and enjoyed bhajans, card games or niversaries being third Tuesday of the is important that you use a wheel chair ciation. Deepika is working with ISAA just plain socializing. Manjuben and month. Indiraben Parikh sponsored the for “in and out” situation and do not in planning and execution of the event. Shardaben sponsored the day with piz- Pizza & ice cream luncheon. Eggless take undue risks! The tickets are set at $100. All mem- za and ice cream. About fifty members cakes for the celebrations were baked • ISAA Emeritus professionals bers are encouraged to support the and guests enjoyed the day. Jitubhai by Kanwalben. Over seventy members and others expressed their willingness event for ISAA’s continued excellence and Chandrakantbhai described the and guests had fun. to meet with ASU Faculty to sharing with a bright and sustained future. www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz SIA • August 2013 ATODAY 15

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by Jonathan M.A.Ghaffar -- he has the equivalent of several Ph.D’s in Islamic Quran (note: the use (Freelance contributor) studies, Quranic Arabic and Classical Urdu, having of “We” referring to veryone, it seems, has questions about Islam. graduated in 1973 from a very rigorous seven-year God includes Him and EGetting answers, though, can be elusive. There missionary training program in Pakistan run by the His angels): are plenty of “experts” on Islam with books, videos worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. He has v.3 – Do men think and even college courses, but the vast majority of been a missionary for nearly four decades in places that they will be left these people are not Muslims but either academics, as diverse as Pakistan, Ghana, Sierra Leone and the alone because they political pundits or hostile opponents of Islam like United States. He is currently the Ahmadiyya Com- say, “We believe,” and Robert Spencer or Pamela Geller. So where can one munity’s SW regional Imam and missionary in Amer- that they will not be go to learn about Islam from a practicing, highly-edu- ica, covering not only Southern California (L.A. and tested? cated, real-life Muslim? San Diego), but also Las Vegas, Tucson and Phoe- v.8 – And for those The answer is in Chino at the Baitul Hameed nix. who believe and do by Imam Shamshad Mosque on Ramona ave. (north of the 60). From Since the start of Ramadan on July 10th, Imam good works, We shall A. Nasir 7:00 to 8:00 nightly through the first week of August, Shamshad has covered the essence of the first chap- surely remove from (Baitul Hameed Mosque the resident Imam, Shamshad A. Nasir, brings to light ter of the Quran called Al-Fatihah, which means The them their evils, and – Chino) the wisdom and teachings of Islam for his congre- Opening. Comprised of just seven short verses, the We shall surely give gation, other Muslims, and anyone else interested in chapter (“surah” in Arabic) presents the four main them the best reward for their works. attending the free lectures. There will be an opportu- qualities or “attributes” of God. These attributes – the v.9 – And We have enjoined man to be kind to nity to ask questions and speak with the Imam and Creator (Lord) of all the worlds, the Beneficent, the his parents. . . members of the Mosque at the free nightly dinners Merciful, and the Master of the Day of Judgment -- v.13 – And those who disbelieve say to those at 8:30pm. define God’s nature and spell out His relationship to who believe. “Follow our way, and we will surely bear Imam Shamshad is always a busy man, even us and our relationship to Him. your sins.” And they [ the disbelievers ] cannot bear without the added duties as a result of Ramadan – Surah Fatihah is so important it is recited multiple anything of their [ the believers’ ] sins. They are sure- the Islamic month of fasting that continues through times in each of the five daily prayers to impress its ly liars. Aug. 8th. And it is precisely because it’s Ramadan spiritual meanings onto the hearts and minds of the v.15-16 – And We certainly sent Noah to his peo- that the Imam is now devoting 5 to 6 hours a day to worshipers. The seven verses represent the entire ple . . . Then the deluge overtook them, while they preparing his nightly one-hour lecture on Islam, the Quran in brief, and the rest of the Quran expounds were wrongdoers. But We saved him and those who Holy Quran, the sayings of the Holy Prophet Muham- upon the concepts in the first chapter. (To read surah were with him in the Ark; and We made it a sign for mad (pbuh), and the writings of Mirza Ghulam Ah- Fatihah with detailed English commentary, click here: all peoples. mad of Qadian (1835-1908). http://www.alislam.org/quran/search2/showChapter. v.42 – The case of those who take helpers [ as- And while gathering all the materials (in different php?ch=1 For Spanish, click hear: http://www.alis- sociate gods ] beside God is like the case of the spi- languages) is a big chanleng that , it is something he lam.org/quran/tafseer/?page=1®ion=ES – other der, who makes for herself a house; and surely the looks forward to each year in Ramadan. languages available at www.alislam.org ) frailest of all houses is the house of the spider, if they “The month of fasting in Islam is a blessed op- Imam Shamshad has been discussing the but knew! portunity for increased prayers, improved morals, 29th chapter of the Quran, surah Al-‘Ankabut -- the v.46 – Recite that which has been revealed to spiritual growth and rededication for all Muslims,” Spider, which you can read in English with com- thee of the Book [the Quran] and observe Prayer. he said. “Part of that growth comes from increasing mentary here: http://www.y hwre: alislam.org/ Surely, Prayer restrains one from indecency and one’s knowledge about God, the Holy Prophet Mu- quran/tafseer/?page=804®ion=EN and without manifest evil, and remembrance of God is indeed the hammad (pbuh) and the religion of Islam.” commentary here: http://www.alislam.org/quran/ greatest virtue. . . The Imam further explained his motivation for the tafseer/?page=460®ion=E2 v.47 – And argue not with the People of the Book lectures, saying, “If my talks bring even one person The Imam stressed that chapter 29 was a good [ Jews and Christians ] except with what is best; . . . closer to God, more aware of His Mercy and Bless- chapter to study after surah Fatihah because it was And say, “We believe in that which has been revealed ings and infinite Majesty, then all my efforts are worth relatively short (only 70 verses), it mentions well- to us and that which has been revealed to you; and it.” known Biblical figures such as Abraham, Noah and our God and your God is one; and to Him we submit.” The Imam also invited all of his neighbors and Lot, and it deals with central themes in Islam, such Imam Shamshad’s nightly lecture (in English) on friends, whether they are Muslim or not, to come to as striving to be righteous, worshiping God with full Islam starts at 7:00pm and continues for about an the Chino Mosque and take benefit from these lec- devotion despite persecution, being kind to one’s hour each night until the end of Ramadan on Aug. tures, because: “Islam is for everyone and everyone parents, and doing good for others. Here is a brief 8th. To attend, call Imam Shamshad at 909-627-2252 is welcome to come and learn about it.” selection of verses that touch on powerful ideas in or 909-636-8332. To learn more about Islam online, Imam Shamshad is certainly qualified to teach the straight-forward style of God speaking in the Holy go to: www.alislam.org

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www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA Teen Talk ATODAY 18 • August 2013 ugust, what a month. With the holi- August 21, 2013 is RakshaBand- Aday season rapidly approaching, han, or Rakhi. Rahki is a very special and a few Indian holidays this month, Holiday season holiday that celebrates brotherhood time will fly by through a whirlwind of and sisterhood and love. The word celebration and spirit! It is very impor- Rakshameans protection and Bandhan tant to learn about the significance of means to tie. Traditionally, on Rakhi, the holidays we celebrate because it the sister ties a bracelet made of inter- gives us an understanding as to why woven threads to the brother’s hand as it is special and why it is being cele- a symbol of their strong relationship. brated. Each holiday has a unique sig- The rakhi is believed to offer protection nificance that is apart of our Indian his- from sin and strengthen love between tory and since the Indian culture is so a brother and sister. Today, the rakhi diverse, there are many religions that bracelet is made of different colored celebrate holidays within the culture. threads woven together and adorned So, let’s learn about the holidays that with beads and stones to glam it up a we will be celebrating this month! bit.At the end of the bracelet tying cer- One of the holidays that will be cel- emony, the sister feeds her brother a ebrated this month by many people is sweet and the brother presents his sis- Eid-al-Fitr, on August 8, 2013. Eid isa ter with a small gift. This holiday has joyous celebration to end of Ramadan. evolved over many years, yet the main The month of Ramadan is the Islamic importance is to honor and uphold the holy month of fasting for all Muslims.On relationship between a brother and sis- this day, everyone who is celebrating ter. shares a common goal of unity, peace, Overall, when we think of these giving, happiness, and forgiveness. On holidays and celebrations we think of the day of Eid, Muslims usually go to family, happiness, joy, and greatness say a special Eid prayer called salaat dia’s Independence Day, on August Independence Day is usually celebrat- for the lives that we are living. These early in the morning. An important part 15. India gained its independence ed at Red Fort, started by the unfolding days bring us our sense of forgive- of Eid celebrated by the kids is receiv- from Great Britain on August 15, 1947 of India’s national flag, then a speech ness, our independence, and strength ing money from elders as a gift known and to this day, we celebrate India’s by India’s prime minister and the sing- and adoration for asEdei, which they can spend as the independence to commemorate its ing of India’s national anthem. Indians our relationships. please on the day of Eid. It is also cus- freedom from the British government. all around the world celebrate India’s These holidays tomary to give as much charity as pos- On August 15, 1947 when the British Independence Day in order to proudly bring out the sible and meet with family and friends handed back the country to the Indian stay true to their country. There are pa- best in us and from all around and celebrate together. leaders, Prime Minister Jawarharlal rades, kite flying, performances, and a the pride for our Another very significant Indian Nehru unfolded the beautiful flag of In- massive commemoration and celebra- country and cultures. holiday in the month of August is In- dia at the amazing Red Fort. In India, tion of all things India! -Sammy Mallik

Atharva’s Dual Use

Corner responded to the then-prior stand-ins for people. subjected to lengthened ex- ual use refers to the mul- contained threat. The virus, This situation proposed posure to the host, the new Dtiple applications of a cer- in its own name, was consid- two, and potentially more, sig- strain could affect, simply tain activity, instrument, idea, ered a threat in parts of Asia nificant applications. The first through respiration, a subject or object. Most references to and Middle East, and was was a new venue for ground- miles away from the source. this concept detail the nega- considered a virus of the third breaking research to be con- The second instance tive “dual” usage of that item; world. ducted. was reason enough to cause the item is used for a pur- Additionally, the virus was With a new viral strain alarm in the scientific commu- pose contrary to its intention. only able to be transferred with the same lethal proper- nity and spark heavy debate Normally such situations are through constant or continu- ties as the first, just a new on the benefits and costs of heralded as creative or imagi- ous exposure to the birds way to transmit, the H5N1 letting such research get pub- a fortunate discovery in native, and therefore galva- themselves and their viral- virus could be used in more lished. many instances, but it is for nized in the community for its infected fecal matter. To un- precise, trial-intensive stud- In the published research those unfortunate instanc- newfound application. How- derstand how this virus might ies, applications which were would be detailed procedures es of abuse that the Office ever, abuses of such appli- mutate in a way that let it start more difficult with the previ- documenting the steps taken of Biotechnology Activities cations, or negligent applica- spreading from person to ous original strain which re- to create such a strain of the actively enforces the Dual tions themselves, are threats person, scientists at the Uni- quired long-term exposure. H5N1 virus. If this information Use Research Program, a so profound that in many versity of Wisconsin-Madison The second, the more fright- was to become accessible to set of principals and ordi- instances, that are declared and Erasmus Medical Center ening one, was the poten- the public, then it would pose nances which serve as a illicit and require heavy regu- in the Netherlands made ge- tiality of a pandemic. With an even more significant bio- focal point for the develop- lation and monitoring. Such is netically-altered forms of the a new air-borne strain, the terrorism threat. With ramifi- ment of policies addressing the situation with the H5N1 vi- H5N1 virus. virus would be more difficult cations such as mass geno- life sciences research that rus, colloquially referred to as They found that these to track and regulate, leaving cide hanging on the line, the yield information or tech- the Bird/Avian Flu. lab-created viruses could room and holes for error both dual usage of this medium nologies with the potential NPR reported late Feb- spread through the coughs in research and containment. of research was approached to be misused and abused ruary of this exact instance, and sneezes of ferrets, which While the original strain re- with extreme caution. to threaten public health or detailing how critics have are used in flu studies as quired a patient to have been Dual use is considered national security. www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz Local Thoughts SIA • August 2013 ATODAY 19

God Almighty! Do Good to All Dr. Jaswant Singh Sachdev M.D., F. A.A. N. But to Me, be the First Blessed Call! Phoenix, Arizona raveling on a major highway in some of the devotees may try to use wishes to be a politician, for they TIndia some years back, I came political influence or social contacts know that politics is one of the few or Indians and can be seen all over across a truck with a back bumper to influence the local employees and professions that flourish in India while the world in varying degrees. The sticker in Punjabi that read something security guards to bypass lengthy many other would be going down the difference between the East and the like this, “Rabbaa! Kar Bhallaa Sarbat queues. slippery slope. West, however, lies in the fact that the daa, Pur kar shuroo mairey taun.” I was told that at some of the The same “me first” mentality public at-large in the latter, regardless The title of this chapter happens to important shrines in the country such sometimes leads to the loss of of economic status, is taken care be a rough English translation of that practices are quite rampant. It made countless lives on the roadsides of, if not first at least on par with the sticker. me wonder as to why we have fallen of India. Many people, including higher ups, as far as basic amenities Having lived in a Western country so low to depend upon ungodly acts politicians, ignore all the rules and are concerned. Western politicians, for close to four decades, I’ve always in order to seek God. Why would an regulations of traffic in order to get like those of the East, may be greedy carried an impression that Westerners entry to the court of God, wherever ahead of the rest. It is a common but they generally do not hijack the in general are more self-serving and it might be located, up, down or practice to bring the entire traffic to a public’s basic essentials. And if they self-centered. But this sticker on the somewhere in between, require such standstill by the politician’s vehicle with try to, the awareness of the ordinary bumper of a truck traveling on roads kinds of actions? And would a visit to red flickering lights on its top. And this people about exercising their rights of India reminded me once again that the interior of the sanctum sanctorum happens irrespective of the fact that is so intense and prevalent, that it no matter who we are or where we of a religious place bought through the politician may be simply making a becomes difficult for a politician to get live, all human beings are same when pressure or contacts from unsacred visit to his or her friend’s home for a away with. The Western politicians it comes to selfishness within us. We and mortal politicians ever serve drink while a common man is driving have the insight about the limited span always demand and wish to be taken the intended purpose of sacred and his sick child to a hospital. The child of their shelf-life and they know fairly care of first, before anybody else. spiritual fulfillment? and his father could be held up in traffic well that to get re-elected, they would We, the citizens of India - a land The penchant of our politicians to jam for hours for the road to clear. The have to face the fully informed public repeatedly and frequently inhabited look out first and foremost to their own consequences can be serious. And again. by many saints, sages, mahatmas needs and that of their families before it’s not just politicians who exercise Finally, Western lawyers sitting at and Gurus, more than any other place they would ever think of doing any control over the roadways. Anyone every nook and corner of the streets on earth - seem not to lag behind good to the public at-large has brought with a little authority over regular traffic are always ready to use their pens when fulfilling our personal greed. our country to the brink of destruction. tries to make sure that he or she is instead of swords in hacking and Our attitudes are often contrary to the It has created a moral hollowness the first while others might have to annihilating anyone who may try to teachings of the spiritual souls who among them. Despite being in their wait for hours. And what about those take undue advantage. In fact, lawyers tried their best to enlighten us against eighties and nineties and with one foot larger religious processions in the are fully aware and are always at the the menace of our attachment to already in the grave, our politicians narrow streets and bazaars of India? lookout for their livelihood depends on wealth and possessions. Yet we tend still wouldn’t stop filling their personal How could they ever be considered as such situations. Obviously they too, to be self-serving not only in matters coffers. Their greed is everywhere; religious when entire traffic is blocked are neither saints nor sages. of material goods but even concerning it even extends to lining the pockets by their presence causing extreme Understandably, it is human nature the higher realm, as if doing otherwise of their grown-up children who may misery to the public? Unfortunately to seek gratification for one’s self first might somehow delay the fulfillment not be that young any more. In fact they still may consider it their first and as the sticker on the back of the truck of our ultimate goal of salvation. We many of their children might have foremost right over others including announced. But in order to be fair to think that if we don’t try to stay ahead turned grandparents themselves with the sick patients being rushed to the others, it becomes imperative that the of others, the train bound for heaven snow white hair and wrinkled faces. hospital? men in power must themselves first might leave the station without us. Yet many politicians end up believing This self-centered ideology again become selfless and then try to seek Harmandir Sahib, popularly known that their legacy lies in making sure seems to be at play among politicians blessings for all. Once the ordinary as the Golden Temple is located in that their progeny also tries to learn to and others with connections in enjoying and the helpless of the society are Amritsar, Punjab, India and is the most enforce the same kinds of inside deals the cool comfort of their air-conditioned allowed to have the basic amenities sacred place of the Sikhs. It attracts upon an unsuspecting public which bungalows while ordinary people are of life, they certainly wouldn’t object many visitors from all over the world. they themselves did. They often start left to rot through the simmering heat to the others reaching higher on the With each passing day the number their careers by expressing a desire to of summer. India may have the best of societal totem pole and have more, be of pilgrims keeps on increasing do good for their constituents but then doctors but most politicians, worth a it a material comfort or a matter of soul exponentially. In fact, it was during as time passes, their emphasis shifts; name must go to the United States or and spirituality. one of my trip to this sacred place that me and mine turns first! Europe for treatment (provided one is *Author of 1. “Square I spotted the above mentioned sticker At one time in the land of our not Manmohan Singh). Such happens Pegs, Round Holes” www. on the back of a truck. As always, the Gurus, mahatmas, saints and sages, to be the case because for one, the SquarePegsRoundHolesBook.com queues of devotees on the causeway it was an unwritten sacred law to bills are paid out of government coffers and 2. “Sikhism: Points to Ponder; to the entry of Harmandir Sahib for sacrifice all for the comforts of fellow and second, our old slave mentality of Perspectives of a Sikh Living darshan (spiritual visitation) were mind- countrymen. But thanks to our so- built-in inferiority complex prevents Abroad,” as well as a recently boggling. The host accompanying me called modern advanced society, such us from believing in our own experts. published masterpiece about the to the sanctum sanctorum mentioned a philosophy has been turned upside Going abroad to the Western world cross-cultural dilemma of Indian that at all the important shrines in India, down. Our bureaucracy has brought for treatment somehow enhances subcontinent diaspora, 3. “One irrespective of the faith, the queues our country the dubious distinction of politicians’ status among the illiterate Coin, Two Sides,” For details of for the devotees have increased so being one of the top corrupt nations, masses, at least so they believe! the this new book, please go to the much that it is not possible to enter where nothing happens unless a buck It needs to be stated here that LINK http://inkwellproductions. inside for a darshan easily. Therefore, is passed under the table. Everyone such behavior is not limited to India com/one-coin-two-sides.htm www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA ATODAY 20 • August 2013

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www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA Literature ATODAY 22 • August 2013 ean Dreze and Amartya Sen’s new Jbook has been widely discussed for the reaction it provoked from The Argumentative Indian Jagdish Bhagwati and the arguments about the best growth model for India equity issue which the Left thought to be that followed. a mistake that if you sort out the class Here, Sen talks, with characteristic issue, gender will look after itself, which nuance, about the Indian media, caste is never the case. politics, the decline of the At that time, those who were fairly Left and the endurance of caste in friendly to me said, “We regard that to unexpected places. be an eccentricity of yours; it is an ami- One of the most interesting chap- able eccentricity.” That was the more ters in the book deals with the media. favourable remark I got! The unfavour- I think on the whole the Indian able remark was that I was deflecting media is quite exemplary but there are attention from class-based politics. some real blind spots. I don’t take the Class is very important, of course, view, as some of my friends do, that in my thinking too, but gender has a media ownership by business has been presence in it which is not just derivative a major problem. But, you know, I take of class. So then again I got attacked. I the view also that businesses mostly are got used to being attacked from the Left. more broadminded than pro-business Amartya Sen I’m getting used to being attacked ideologues are (laughs), of whom there difficult for people to visit. Like Salman a completely different story. But once from the right now (laughs). It has been are many. Rushdie had a problem visiting both the it’s in there and then everyone quotes going on for a while but at the moment For example, I think it’s very much Jaipur Festival as well as the Kolkata each other… it’s at a kind of peak. But this too will in the interests of business… And from Book Fair. All that emerged from the Econo- pass. Jamsetji Tata onwards, many business- I think these are very unfortunate mist... I think if people get deterred, fearing men have recognised that having an and it doesn’t fit the tolerant Indian so- Well, the Economist came much attack, that is quite unfortunate because educated and healthy labour force is ciety where you could say these things. later. Jagdish and Panagariya were a democracy can work only if we say extremely important for business. The two issues that worry me, quoting that but it has been on the in- what we really believe. It’s not anti-business and I don’t despite the fact that the Indian media ternet much earlier than that. They were Do you think we are deterred in think businesses regard that to be an is so dynamic and more people buy just taking on the consensus that a part focusing on some topics because we unfriendly thing, but some pro-business newspapers in India than in any other of the Internet had already produced. fear attack or is it because we are all activists regard any support for state country in the world, are one, the blind I don’t think they were the origin of complicit in thinking that if we talk education or state healthcare to be spots, which are justified by consumer this thought. It was the first time I wrote about what’s happening in Chhat- wrong because ideologically, everything reader interest. something in protest. It wasn’t in protest tisgarh, Kashmir or the North East, should be done by business rather than But consumer reader interest gets at his views on my work, which could we are somehow being unpatriotic? by the state. increased if something gets discussed be terrible. Yeah, I think there are three things That’s counterproductive for busi- as you saw in the Nirbhaya case. I mean my view of my work could be there really; quite interesting that you ness and businesses often typically Once that transformation took place terrible and he may be right on that. He should raise that question. Take Chhat- recognise that. and it arrived in the public domain then said I never took an interest in growth tisgarh. I went to town; I was very I think, to the extent that limitations the newspapers cover a lot of that be- but my PhD thesis onwards, I have been involved in one particular case, that of come, it’s not so much ownership (of the cause people are interested in monitor- working on that so I did have to correct it Binayak Sen getting out, and I thought media). I mean I’m not dismissing the ing it in a way they were not earlier. ASAP. But I’m not holding that as an ex- Chhattisgarh was behaving disgrace- issue altogether; there might have been The media, therefore, had a role ample of what I’m really concerned with. fully. a case for a broader ownership pattern. in creating that market for itself for that I do know that there are people who But those who thought I was making It’s possible; its almost certain to kind of news. That requires a kind of are quite worried about making points, a mistake said, basically, he (Binayak be the case. But I don’t think it’s a huge visionary editorial plan. which they think will actually generate Sen) had pro-Maoist sympathy, which problem in India. The second issue is the kind of a lot of attack. It used to happen from even if it were the case and it may well Obviously, state censorship is wor- inhibition that sometimes comes from the Left too at one stage. be the case; I don’t know has got noth- rying and people get worried about our knowing that if you express certain You couldn’t express certain points ing to do with his human rights being tendency to ban books and making it views it will be distorted and attacked. of view because you’d be immediately honoured. Now, I’ve gone through quite a bit of that sat upon. That has happened to me also Secondly, there were those who recently (laughs). (laughs) earlier on in my life. thought that the Naxalite danger was so I can speak with some experience I come from the Left but I did think, large... They had this terrible word (sic) and it’s not pleasant. On the other hand, initially, that the Left was making a that you can’t make an omelet without that is the rule of the game that we play mistake in not taking democracy seri- breaking some eggs… here. That is not a question of just an ously. This was when I was a student I wish they broke eggs and not hu- individual having to face that; it’s a ques- in Presidency College and this idea of a man heads! So there is that “realpolitik” tion of whether a culture of explaining a bourgeois democracy was an absolute guy saying, of course, this is tragic but point of view of different people comes terrible thought. we have to do this. I think they are mak- in the reckoning of the press. Any kind of democracy requires a ing a big mistake too. Here, I think it’s not so much the system whereby there is support other But another thing I’ve encountered print media; the internet media really than the government and the bour- is and that is central to what I’m trying to can be completely biased. They want geoisie is a natural place where you’d say now, in the book but even in general to attack; and they keep on quoting the seek support, and hopefully get people that if you look at a government which same thing, misdescribing. I’m referring among the bourgeoisie who are not you don’t like there may still be things now to the belief that I believe in redistri- committed to pursuing only bourgeoisie that you ought to take seriously and like. bution, which has never been the case. interests. In the case of Modi I’m already on You can’t take money from the rich For making that point, I got a little the record and I think it was the Hindu- to the poor. But I do believe in good attack. I’m thinking of the 1950s. stan Times that said “He did say that, in public services for the poor, which is Then, I got involved in the gender fact, he did believe there are things to www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz Literature SIA • August 2013 ATODAY 23 learn from Modi”. rights issues. This rides on the lack of In Chhattisgarh, the fact that I think there is a gross sense education and schooling. Some they are doing a pretty decent job that these are finer issues. From of it’s not intentional discrimina- POET OF MONTH of food, the PDS system, which the Left sometimes it takes the tion but better schooled people we discuss in the book did create form of saying, “There are hun- happen to be from these limited some consternation among my gry people and people dying of caste backgrounds. Dan Albergotti friend who rightly thinks Chhat- illnesses” and on the Right it In Bangladesh - partly, of tisgarh has a very bad record of often comes from insecurity and course, being a Muslim country an Albergotti is the author human rights. a misplaced faith in abuse as a they don’t have the caste system Dof The Boatloads (BOA Edi- But that shouldn’t prevent us way of making you more secure. with the solidity of traditional tions, 2008) and The Use of the from talking about those things in But these are all mistakes. Hindu society the spread of World (Unicorn Press, 2013). which they have had a success. The way to deal with it is to education has made a differ- His poems have appeared in There’s the example of Lee Kuan broaden the notion of human ence. But political parties have to The Cincinnati Review, Five Yew with whom I disagreed, rights to include education and take a conscious position on this. Points, The Southern Review, some of it in the public domain. health care as well as civil rights, The Labour Party did this in The Virginia Quarterly Review, But I thought then as I do political freedom and individual the West on the women ques- and Pushcart Prize XXXIII: Best now that there’s a huge amount liberty. tion for example. So I think that of the Small Presses. A gradu- to learn from Singapore’s treat- I think what we decided, as can be done. I think some of the ate of the MFA program at UNC ment of minorities as well as their far as the human rights issue is cure would be within the realm Greensboro and former poetry editor of The Greensboro focus on education and health concerned, is just to focus more of the media itself by focusing Review, Albergotti currently teaches creative writing and care as a basis of economic on that and hope that the recog- more on these issues and creat- literature courses and edits the online journal Waccamaw progress. nition that there is a blind spot in ing an interest; also the political at Coastal Carolina University in Conway, SC. So the wanting a kind of the media would serve as a way movement particularly of the Left non-existent clarity in terms of addressing and confronting parties. Neither of a government being either that issue. Creating an interest in But, of course, the tragedy comprehensively good or com- people depends on discussing it. is the sunset of the Left parties Her eyes flared like torches. She couldn’t understand prehensively bad… because you One often thinks of the dif- makes it very difficult for them to how she’d struck me dumb. She couldn’t believe, will find cases where you think ference that The Universal Dec- do anything, demand anything she said, how I could believe nothing, wouldn’t accept on the whole you don’t like the laration of Human Rights in of them. that I would choose annihilation, death over life. government but there are good 1948 made to the Human Rights Now, you know in polite things that they are doing from movement. It did not have any society you don’t mention (That’s what she said: death over life. Said it was a choice.) which there’s something to learn. legal power. The declaration caste. It’s not politically cor- She told me her lord stood and knocked and waited And in the case of a govern- was just endorsed by all the UN rect. for me to open a door. It’s really a simple choice, she said. ment that you do like, there may countries at that time. What the Yeah, and that’s very un- Everlasting life or eternal death. Which one do you want? be dreadful things they are doing universal declaration did was to fortunate. India was thinking of which you may object to. So I get these issues discussed a lot. abolishing caste information in Her eyes flared like torches carried by monks think there is a kind of seeking I did write an article in the the census. And for a while it did or by villagers. Her words seemed to float of simplicity, which is generally New Republic called The Power that but then we lost the only bit from her mouth, and her teeth were beautiful. a good thing. of the Declaration. It has no of data we were getting! Isn’t that strange, that teeth can be beautiful? It served the cause of sci- legality but its power rested on What do you say about ence very well over the centuries the fact that it led to discussion caste being used for vote Have you ever looked at a mouth and thought, but there is a problem with that. and discussion led to interest banks? Those teeth are beautiful? Have you ever looked at a skull About Kerala, I remember and interest led to curiosity and That is unfortunate. I think and thought, Those teeth are beautiful? Have you ever hearing about the abject pov- curiosity led to more reporting on the most important thing one thought erty and the craziness of caste human rights abuses. can attribute to Nitish’s vision about the teeth of a crocodile tearing at the flesh there in the early 20thCentury. In the book, you point out is to get beyond that, though it Now it’s not like that at all. that caste hierarchies are rep- so happens I gather from my of an early mammal, crushing bones and flashing white In some ways, that’s one licated in workers’ movements Bihari friend that he ultimately against primordial mud millennia before the first hominid? of the few examples where and in the media too in India. is also reliant on particular caste Have you ever thought about all those years of silence? dialectics really worked, the fact Unless that changes, won’t groups. I didn’t want to hurt her as she stood there waiting. that Kerala has totally revoked our perspectives continue to Of course, in some way the caste system. Kerala is the be like this? caste politics has always been I wanted to say something that would please her, only place in the world where, in That is very striking. Well, in lower caste politics or middle-low but I couldn’t tell her she was right. She was not right. addition to untouchability, unsee- Bengal, there are three castes - caste politics so, in some ways, She was neither right nor wrong, neither light ability was also practised. brahmins, kayasths and vaidyas, it’s a little better than the domi- nor dark. She was neither angel nor demon, neither dove That, of course, led to the which is what my caste is. If you nance of Brahmins, Kayasths anti-upper caste movement, look at all the names, it is difficult and Vaidyas in WB politics. nor asp. She was neither the one who could save me which went in the pro-education to find anyone else now you can The main problem, as I see nor the one who could damn me. She was neither department, which is one of the find one or two; sometimes a it, is that caste to the extent that the pearl nor the meal, neither the fossil nor the fir. reasons why Kerala became so token presence. you have caste politics what you She was neither judge nor gem, neither catechism successful. But when I first went looking exclude is a class interest based What do you think about at the pattern of the Left move- politics of the underdogs in soci- nor catacomb, neither breath nor body nor fire nor fear the accusation that the Indian ment in West Bengal or what was ety. Class is not necessarily only nor yes nor no. She was neither nil nor love media does not cover human then undivided Bengal, when I in the Marxian sense but also in this half-life world, neither the bomb, nor the flash, rights abuses of the State was in college, it was absolutely those who don’t get the benefit of nor the wave that washes everything away. enough? striking that these three castes good schools, decent hospitals I think that not covering hu- dominated. the combined class interests in Well? she said, nearly spitting, her eyes flaring still. man rights abuses is partly the Three castes covering 21 there that will cut through caste. Which . . . one . . . do . . . you . . . want? fault of the media, but partly, as percent of the population cov- When you have caste politics And my answer held there, like a flame, things stand, it’s also a lack of ered every leadership position you don’t have a united voice in the deepening silence between us. interest of the public in human in every field! protesting about that. Published in Five Points 14.2 (Winter 2011) www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA Health Care ATODAY 24 • August 2013 Blood Pressure

and feet with water. Drink a glass of the many home remedies available to water. Now lie down on your right side control hypertension. One must pay using your right hand as a pillow. Try to adequate attention to his or her life focus on you breathing process. This style so that physical, mental equilibri- exercise for 15 minutes will bring your um can be maintained and will be able blood pressure under control. to enjoy life. 2. If you feel hypertension dur- Our body is biggest gift of God to he modern day fast paced lifestyle ing a journey or while in office, drink us, which needs to be maintained fol- Tand work pressures are affecting a glass of water and put pressure on lowing the principles of nature. Any everybody. This is not only destabiliz- your right thigh. If you are standing aberration to this fundamental law will 2. Take a glass of water. Add ing the equilibrium of life but also hin- then putting your wait on right foot will lead to diseases and low blood pres- 25 gm of jaggery with salt and lemon. dering our growth. The increasing and give you relief. sure is one of them. This is a situa- Drinking this will help you to control low addictive consumption of tea, coffee, 3. A mixture of ½ tbs of cinnamon tion where many vital organs do not BP. smoking and other addictions also add with 1tbs of honey is also helpful. get sufficient blood supply. Weakened 3. Butter with sugar (mishri) also to our stress level leaving us physically 4. Boil 1/2 tbs powdered bark of muscles of heart fail to pump blood helps to regulate low BP. and morally weak. The root cause to arjuna (Terminelia Arjuna) tree with 1 properly to different parts of the body 4. A glass of milk added with all our problems are lifestyle disorders glass of water. When this mixture is re- and leads to low blood pressure. ghee (from cow milk) also helps. and most common among them is hy- duced to half let it cool and drink. Symptoms: 5. Eating raisins(10 gm) with desi pertension or high blood pressure. If 5. Take 1 cup juice of lauki or bot- Headache, blackout before eyes, chana( chickpea) also helps to control you have persistent headache, feel ex- tle gourd. Add coriander leaves, mint falling unconscious, giddiness, feeling low BP. hausted after small work, experience and basil leaves and two black pepper exhausted, breathlessness, cold sweat 6. Drinking beetroot juice twice a giddiness, insomnia, lack of concentra- in it. Drinking it will help you to reduce in palms and feet, mental stress, low day for 10 days brings blood pressure tion, higher rate of heart beat then you blood pressure. pulse rate etc. under control. may be one of the victims of hyperten- 6. Drinking a concoction of 5 bel- 7. Apple jam also helps to cure sion. patra leaves (Aegle marmelos) in half Remedies: blood pressure disorders. Hypertension can be cured by a glass of water will also bring blood 1. Lie down on you left using 8. Having a glass of milk with 5 practicing few things in life. pressure under control. your left hand as a pillow. Try to focus pieces of khajoor (dates) daily is also Remedies 7. Lime water three times a day on your breathing process. This exer- helpful. ------will also bring down blood pressure. cise for 15 minute will bring your blood -Dr. Prakash Singh 1. Wash your face, both hands These are just a few examples of pressure to normal. [email protected]

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n August 23rd, Padmashree Pan- formance was during the Sino-Indian in 1980. From this, he began to have achieved immense popularity. In 1994, Okaj Udhas is going to perform live War, when he sang “Aye Mere Watan success and, as of 2011 he has re- Udhas sang the notable song, “Na in one of a kind fine ghazal concert at Ke Logo” and was given Rs. 51 by an leased more than 50 albums and hun- Kajre Ki Dhar”, from the film Mohra. Tempe Center for the Arts. audience member as a reward. dreds of compilation albums. Pankaj He continued working as a playback Pankaj Udhas is a famous ghazal Four years later, he joined the Udhas loves to listen to Begum Akhtar singer, making some on-screen ap- singer from India, credited in the Indian Sangeet Natya Academy in Rajkot and and Mehndi Hasan just like any other pearances in films such as Saajan, music industry, along with other musi- learned the nuances of playing the ghazal lover would. He still listens to Yeh Dillagi, and Phir Teri Kahaani Yaad cians like Jagjit Singh and Talat Aziz, tabla. After that, he pursued a Bach- the Beatles and feels they are the only Aayee. with bringing the Ghazal style to the elor of Science degree at Wilson Col- band who can be called as true pop His album Shagufta launched by realm of popular music. Udhas rose to lege, and St Xavier’s college Mumbai musicians. In 1986, Udhas received Music India in December 1987 was the fame for singing in the 1986 film Naam, and started training in Indian clas- another opportunity to per- first to be released on compact disc in in which his song “Chitthi Aayee Hai” sical vocal under the tutelage form in film, in the film India. became an instant hit. Following that, of Master Navrang. Udhas’s Naam, which brought Later, Udhas started a talent hunt he has also performed as a playback first song was in film Kamna him fame.[citation television program called Aadab Aarz singer for numerous films. He has re- a solo song composed by needed] In 1990, he Hai on Sony Entertainment Television. corded many albums since then and Usha Khanna and written by sang the melodi- From those early childhood days tours the world as an accomplished Naqsh Lailpuri the film was a ous duet “Mahiya as a singer on stage to his countless ghazal singer. In 2006, Pankaj Udhas flop but his rendition was very Teri Kasam” with albums and films songs, Pankaj Udhas was awarded the Padma Shri, India’s much appreciated. Lata Mangesh- has proved at early stage that he is not fourth highest civilian award. Subsequently, Udhas devel- kar, for the only a singer par excellence but also a Pankaj Udhas, the name by itself oped an interest in ghazals and movie Ghayal. passionate professional, doing every- sounds sweet and reminds one of a learned Urdu to try to pursue a ca- This song thing possible to stay close to his first voice that is as sweet as honey itself. reer as a ghazal singer. He love – music. The man deserves credit for making spent ten months in And despite being a thorough pro- ghazals popular at a time when it was Canada and the fessional he hasn’t forgotten his duty losing its foothold over the masses. US doing ghazal as a citizen of India and as a human And today amidst the cacophony of concerts and re- being and has done every possible fast and pop music he has proved that turned to India thing to make the world a better place ghazals still charm music lovers the with renewed to live in. world over and that music is not what vigor and confi- Mumbai Beats (Kiran and Sneha is made out of machines but that which dence. Dhole) is proud to host Pankaj Udhas is made out of an artist’s soul. His first live in concert on August 23rd at Tempe Pankaj Udhas’ older brother, Man- ghazal al- Center for the Arts. For program and har, was a stage performer and this bum, Aa- tickets inquiries please contact Mum- aided Pankaj in his introduction to mu- hat, was bai Beats at mumbai.beats@yahoo. sical performance. His first stage per- r e l e a s e d com or visit www.mumbaibeats.com.

uja (worship) is a privilege in the Here I mention two devotees of ter that prayer of Namdev, all of sud- Phuman life. Krishna; One -Mirabai; when she de- den the temple changed direction. As a Human Being, God gave us a voted her mind and body to him, She When Namdev opened his eyes, the unique opportunity to establish a more was the most protected disciple of temple had turned and the entrance meaningful Relationship with the di- Krishna. was facing Nam- vine through Puja. In my own experience, Puja is a primary technique to develop devo- What is Puja? tional thoughts in the human mind. If anyone questions how to develop devotional thoughts in our conscious- Second -Bhagat Nam Dev Ji. He dev. The priest was requesting Nam- ness, there is a simple way to start. was the most humble worshiper of the dev to enter the temple and worship First of all: find a peaceful place in any Lord. One day when he went to the the lord. That day Bhagat Namdev Ji’s corner of your house. temple to worship Lord Krishna he was devotion and dedication with divine After that, to focus your attention not allowed entrance by the priest. became obvious to the spiritual world. on the divine, set up a little platform With unspeakable sadness and Oh my dear readers, if you would to put any statue or divinely inspired disappointment, Namdev went behind like to establish a relationship with figure, which you most like. the temple, sat down and sang his the Divine; Devote your mind, body For example: I love the statue sadness and grief to his lord. Oh Lord, and soul to him and you will receive a and picture of Lord Krishna when he why am I poor and low caste with no blissful way of life; and God will bless was the boy, Gopala, the Butter thief. right to enter your temple? When will you with Divine In my mind this picture portrays you listen to me and allow me to enter Love, Grace and a him as an innocent looking chubby the temple? peaceful Life. Round Face with Fluffy Cheeks and How long will I suffer with this sep- bluish brown skin. His eyes twinkled aration from you? If you will not protect Thank You with a promise of miracles and mis- me from this degradation now, what -Harbhajan Singh chievousness. good is Liberation after my death? Af- Sandhu www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA Fashion ATODAY 26 • August 2013 Choose a bag that suits your body type

ot every handbag is ideal for every with short, slouchy shapes like a hobo. they will weigh you down, making you Nwoman. The rule for a flattering Avoid shoulder bags with a short strap look even shorter. Go for long slings in- look is to pair a handbag that is the op- because they will make you look even stead and carry them besides your hip. posite shape of your body type. Also, taller. Select wider hand bags, Clutch- It will add a little length to your person- when shopping, head to the dressing es can be a great choice. Carry it be- ality. room and carry the bag as you normal- side your waist and it will add that extra 3. Plus size: If you have full curves ly would and check it out in the mirror attention to the tiny waist line as well. or a heavy built, pick a large structured from all angles to be sure that it suits 2. Petite: If you have short legs or a boxy bag to balance out your you. and and a heavy upper body, say no to curves. Don’t carry a bag that is too Read on to know what kind of oversized bags. Despite what we see small because it will make you look handbag would suit your body type in Hollywood, oversized bags are not larger. Pick a bag with a shorter strap best. meant for shorter women. Large bags and carry it on your shoulder as it will 1. Tall and thin: If you have a tend to overwhelm your frame. Avoid compliment your built and curves. It tall and lean personality, choose bags shoulder bags with longer straps as wont make you look too big and busty. The story of the DIY nail art ant to fix up a gloomy, rainy Wday when you have no little black dress choice but to stay indoors? How about indulging in some moodli- all it the singular sartori- al phenomenon of the last centu- fitng nail art? No, we are not tell- ry or the absolute must in a chic woman’s wardrobe, ing you to rush to your nearest C nail spa — our nail art tips are little black dress, or LBD as it is fondly called, attracts homemade and perfect for a day ladies in big numbers. of DIY. Just let your imagination A n d , tracing the evolution loose, and do it the quirky way. of the dress through style genera- From funny eyes to paws and tions, The Sa- vannah College of bones, you’ll find plenty of inspira- Arts & Design (SCAD) held an exhi- tion around you. Keep toothpicks and matchsticks handy to draw. bition, Little Black Dress, curated by Go ahead, check out all the artsy American Vogue’s former contributing fun you can have. editor and a trust- ee of SCAD, Andre Nail art: Arpita Kala, Snigdha Leon Talley. The Parisienne chic set Ahuja & Shara Ashraf marched towards its venue, Mona Bismark Ameri- Converse shoes can Centre in Paris recently. SCAD, after having Cute as a button, these mini converse shoes will look super spunky on your nails. Start with a basic white nail paint for a base, and add a coat of deep done a similar exhibition in Savannah, flew in powder blue, leaving out the rim. Finish with your black laces that you’ll need over 50 outfits from vari- ous designers for the to be carefully drawn in with a shaved toothpick head, and colour the edges of event. your nail black. “It’s all about the indi- vidual’s expression, Umbrella Fun the way one feels and how one wants to convey For these saucy nails — after a white coat, use bright neon colours to draw the style. When we did the same in Savannah, the umbrella and paint the handle black. Slurpy Blue the next step was to take it to another destination,” To perfect this easy-breezy design, draw blue lines on half dry white coat, said the legendary Talley who collected the pieces from creating an abstract pattern. various designers for the exhibition. Neon Oggles The creations on dis- play, contributed by Chanel, After a coat of black, pick a neon paint to draw the eyes. Now, finish with Tom Ford, Prada, Oscar de la Renta, Marc Jacobs, Norma black dots for the pupils. On every nail, change the position of the pupils to Kamali, Prabal Gurung and Lady Gaga, spelt style through reflect myriad moods. Puppy Love the eyes of these well-known designers. The exhibits, in var- With alternate stamp art of paws and bones, show love for your mutt with ied lengths and silhouettes (Stella McCartney’s creation this nail art. Choose a bright base like a scarlet or tangerine and draw the for Rihanna and the Chan- tilly lace outfit made by Tom doggy symbols with a fine-tipped nail art pen. Ford for Lady Gaga), and not necessarily all of them in Heart Art just black, have been attract- ing several visitors since the Skip the animal print and go for hearts on your nails. Again, you need a event’s opening last week. quality white base, tooth pick head dipped in black enamel, and a colour of your choice for the filling. The hearts don’t need to be stoically defined. “It can be anything...the way one feels individually… I Groucho Style love the idea of Little Black Dress and I would love to take Do the Groucho Marx style nail art using a barbie or salmon pink base this event to Russia, China and even India,” Talley said. paint. Draw the glasses and the thick moustache after practicing on a plain paper for better results. Slant the eyebrows according to your mood! www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz SIA • August 2013 ATODAY 27 Eid Mubarak

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ame for a wacky workout? Amin realised that balancing the body in sti- GAli tells you how to spice up your lettos gave women really bad walking boring fitness routine by exercising in postures. four-inch high stilettos! They either had no focus on bal- Do you envy Beyonce, every time ance or had bad postures — like you watch her gyrate gracefully in her walking with a hunch while trying to stilettos, in the hit number Single La- balance, or walking with slightly bent dies? Well, you too can strut around knees! That’s when she decided to de- and dance effortlessly, like this leggy sign the Stiletto Workout. singer, with the help of the latest fitness How it works fad — the Stiletto Workout — especial- This exercise regime aims at letting ly designed for women who love their women move around in heels, looking heels. Devised by New York-based sexy, rather than awkward. “There was model, professional dancer and fitness a need to develop a regimen that was instructor Nicole Damaris, this fitness more than mere walking back and forth regimen gives women the shape, form in the runway style. also promises to give you toned thighs, general physician before embarking on and balance needed to walk, sit or Women need to work on core calves, buttocks and abs! What’s this form of exercise. If you suffer from move around in a pair of stilettos, plus strength and balance to be able to more, with time, it will better your pos- serious knee, back or hip ailments, it is a pair of toned and sexy legs! stand upright in their heels,” she says. ture and form, as you focus on balance not advised. If you plan on doing this The stiletto story The final result was a calisthenics (an and control. With only heels as your workout at home, all by yourself, watch It was while sitting in a coffee shop exercise which requires minimum or equipment, this workout emphasises enough ‘workout-in-heels’ videos on that the idea of this workout evolved no equipment and aims at increasing not only on your posture but on core the internet. in Nicole’s head. She noticed woman body strength) style workout in heeled strength as well. So this year, give your lacklustre after woman pass by, walking uncom- shoes. Word of caution fitness routine a towering twist. Who fortable in their heels. “Women of all The benefits However, before you slide into your knows, apart from losing weight and sizes, heights, and weights were walk- Apart from boosting your sex ap- favourite pair of heels and begin work- getting a toned body, you may even be ing in their shoes, the wrong way,” says peal and giving you confidence to sa- ing out, there are a few safety mea- able to walk home in your stilettos, af- Damaris. She sat for two hours and shay stylishly in stilettos, this workout sures you must follow. Check with your ter dancing away the night in them! Foods to deal with heartburn Ways to be an early bird eartburn can happen due to a variety of rea- Hsons. Having spicy foods, eating too fast f you are not one of those who can hop out of bed feeling energised, we list without chewing properly, eating quickly when Idown a few ways for you to rise and start your day early you’re stressed out, going overboard with alco- You must have heard the saying, ‘Early to bed, early to rise...’ several hol and smoking, lack of proper sleep and not times, but did you know waking up early actually makes you healthy, wealthy being able to digest certain foods are all culprits. and wise? Here’s what you can do to relieve heartburn: Waking up early in the morning is the toughest part for many, especially - Bananas are known to have certain quali- for those who have a habit of sleeping late at night. ties that help against acidity and heart burn. Be consistent with sleep Make it a habit to have one daily. Going to bed at the same time everyday will ensure that you wake up on - Avoid eating in a hurry. The more you chew your food, the better it will time the next morning. Your body loves consistency, so sticking to a particu- digest. lar sleep schedule will make it easier for your body to wake up in the morn- - Ensure that you eat smaller meals instead of just three large meals every- ing. Make sure that you sleep for seven to eight hours to feel rested through- day. The large gap between meals causes gas. out the day. - Foods like pickles, mustard, vinegar, chocolates, excessive tea or cof- Learn to wind down fee, citrus fruits or juices, carbonated beverages, spicy foods are known to You must switch off the computer or television at least half an hour before increase the acidity in your body. Control your consumption. you go off to bed. Also, bright lights act as a disturbance for your brain. Read - Stay away from raw salads, which contain onions, cabbage or radish. a book or drink a glass of warm milk to feel relaxed before you sleep. - Drink at least 10 glasses of water everyday. Do not consume alcohol - Make it a habit to have a mixture of two teaspoons of natural apple cider Contrary to popular belief that alcohol puts you off to sleep, drinking vinegar and the same amount of raw honey in a glass of water before your meals. alcohol or coffee at night can keep you awake and may disrupt your sleep- - Avoid eating just before you go to bed. ing pattern as well. While it is okay to have one drink to relax yourself, refrain - Sleep on a high pillow with your head and shoulders resting comfortably from going overboard. on it. Tire your body - Chewing tulsi leaves is known to give you quick relief from gas. Strenuous exercise is the right way to put your body off to sleep. Make - Suck on a small piece of jaggery till your acidity is in control. sure that you are exercising an hour to two before you hit the bed. Apart from - Having some ajwain seeds after your meals is another solution. this, exercising once you wake up in the morning will energise you and keep - Watermelons, bananas, almonds and cucumbers are known to have slack away for the rest of the day. properties that will give you relief from heartburn. Take an early shower - Include a lot of naariyal paani and milk in your diet. A refreshing and rejuvenating splash of water is a great way to kick-start - Drink mint juice after every meal. your body’s nervous system and also feel recharged throughout the day. www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA star Monthly ATODAY 30 • August 2013 ou can meet potential new his is not the best time to t’s time to reconnect with Ymates, but make sure that Ttake a risk, to gamble or Isome of the people you used they aren’t already committed spend money you really can’t af- to know. A passionate party for to someone else. Put your ef- ford to part with. You should get two might be just the remedy. forts into your work or money into programs that will enhance Your family may be feeling ne- making ventures rather than your appearance and help you glected and unloved. Enjoy a your emotional life. Your emo- to be the best that you can. Talk quiet dinner for two and discuss tional life may be up in the about your intentions and con- some of the plans you have for ARIES air if your mate has been go- TAURUS firm that you both feel the same GEMINI the future. Your luckiest events ing through a change of heart. way. Stop telling others about this month will occur on a Friday. Changes in your home envi- your problems. Your luckiest ronment are likely. Your lucki- events this month will occur on est events this month will occur a Wednesday. on a Sunday. Mar 21 April 21 May 21 to to to Apr 20 May 20 June 21

ake matters in hand when riends may not be com- nvestments will cost more Tit comes to dealing with cli- Fpletely honest with you. You Ithan you anticipated. Don’t ents or colleagues. You have may have to take a short trip to overspend on items for your to feel free to come and go as visit someone who hasn’t been home. Try to mix business with you please to achieve happi- well. Don’t overspend to im- pleasure while traveling. Do not ness. You could easily lose your press someone who interests let them in on your plans if you temper at work. Don’t push your you. You are best not to say too want things to run smoothly. opinions or ideas on others. much to colleagues. Your lucki- Your luckiest events this month CANCER Don’t trust a deal that looks too LEO est events this month will occur VIRGO will occur on a Thursday. good, or a lover who appears to on a Sunday. have it all. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Thurs- day.

Jun 22 Jul 23 Aug 24 to to to Jul 22 Aug 23 Sep 23

ew relationships will sur- et into some activities that ou may find out that some- Nface through work relate Gwill help you in making new Yone has not been complete- events. Do not get into uncer- friends. Problems on the home ly honest with you. Things will tain financial deals. Do not ex- front might be a little disconcert- be emotional with your mate. pect others to do your work. ing. Be sure to organize events Socializing will be more than You can bet that you’ll draw that will keep the children busy. just entertaining. Don’t let other attention to yourself. Your lucki- Get out and enjoy some enter- people meddle in your private LIBRA est events this month will occur SCORPIO tainment. Your luckiest events SAGITTARIUS affairs. Your luckiest events this on a Friday. this month will occur on a Fri- month will occur on a Friday. day.

Sep 24 Oct 24 Nov 23 to to to Oct 23 Nov 22 Dec 21

eception in your home is o not let them blow situa- et together with friends who Devident. Don’t beat around Dtions out of proportion. If Glike to participate in indoor the bush. You could pick up you take on too much of a fi- sports. Try to deal with the prob- valuable knowledge through nancial burden you may make lems of those less fortunate; how- conversations with experienced yourself ill. You may want to ever, don’t allow them to make un- individuals. Be prepared to take make drastic changes concern- reasonable demands. However, advantage of your good fortune. ing your personal partner. You you should be concerned about CAPRICOM Try to spend some time on your AQUARIES need to fulfill your needs and PISCES what they want in return. Try to own. Your luckiest events this pre sent your talents. Your lucki- avoid serious discussions with month will occur on a Thursday. est events this month will occur loved ones. Your luckiest events on a Wednesday. this month will occur on a Thurs- day.

Dec 22 Jan 22 Feb 20 to to to Jan 21 Feb 19 Mar 20 www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz SIA • August 2013 ATODAY 31

www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA Bollywood News ATODAY 32 • August 2013 Film Review: Issaq will challenge your patience and drown you in your own misery!

either Prateik nor Amyra have the Bachhi Kashyap (Amyra Dastur). Nright spark to play these roles; their Both belong to warring families with pairing seems odd as they hardly have burly moustached men who believe in the any chemistry on screen. law of the gun. The first half introduces us to a plethora of characters and sub Film Review plots that have minimal importance to Film: Issaq the main story. Cast: Prateik Babbar, Amyra Rahul and Bacchi do the rehearsed Dastur, Evelyn Sharma, routine of courtship and indulge in lot of Makarand Deshpande phone calls, silly banter, calling each other Director: Manish Tewary names and awkward kisses! Prashant Rating: *1/2 Narayan’s track as the rebel leader who wants ownership of the sandpits owned by the families is included merely to raise the bloodshed on screen. What’s it about A desi adaptation of Shakespeare’s What’s hot Romeo and Juliet, Issaq is set against Ravi Kissen emerges as the sole the backdrop of Benares is a love story survivor of this epic mess! Despite a of Rahul Mishra (Prateik Babbar) and cliché ridden character, he manages to infuse enough fire in his role to make the right noise. Similarly Rajeshwari Sachdev too impresses in her role as the seductress who changes the game towards the end.

What’s not When supporting characters impress you more than the lead pair, there is a reason to worry. Neither Prateik nor Amyra have the right spark to play these roles. Their pairing seems odd as they hardly have any chemistry on screen. Most of the dramatic scenes fall flat because the actors fail to engage you with their craft. Tewary adds too much in too little time for us to grasp. It feels like nothing but a travesty of the original work in every sense.

What to do Issaq will challenge your patience and drown you in your own misery!

Shahid Kapoor plays Salman Khan fan in Phata Poster Nikla Hero

here’s a little scene in the film where Salman sir Phata Poster Nikla Hero is directed by Rajkumar Tis there...Salman sir was kind enough to do a Santoshi, who had earlier roped in Salman for a special appearance in the film,” the 32-year-old said special appearance in his film Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab here Friday at a press meet for the film. Actor Sha- Kahani as well. hid Kapoor says his character in the forthcoming film Talking about his character’s fascination with Phata Poster Nikla Hero is a fan of Bollywood star Salman, Shahid said: “He (Shahid’s character) is Salman Khan, who has also done a cameo in the a very big fan of Salman Khan and in one scene movie. we have even worn a ‘Being Human’ t-shirt and in “There’s a little scene in the film where Salman another scene, the character has gone to buy veg- sir is there...Salman sir was kind enough to do a etables with his mother and his hands are full and he Being Human is Salman’s NGO. special appearance in the film,” the 32-year-old said is eating a banana standing and watching the poster Phata Poster Nikla Hero also stars Ileana D’Cruz here Friday at a press meet for the film. of Dabangg 2.” and is slated to release Aug 23. www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz Bollywood News SIA • August 2013 ATODAY 33 Ranbir Kapoor- Katrina Kaif snapped at a beach in Spain t’s time for Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif to come out in the open. IEven though they have managed to hide from the papparazzi in India, they have been clicked during their Spanish holiday earlier this month. The pictures are in the latest edition of Stardust. We managed to source photographs from the magazine that hits the stands today. Editor Ram Kamal Mukherjee says, “I think it’s great that Ranbir and Katrina are coming out into the open with their romance now. It’s great to be in love. The pictures we have carried speak volumes about the body lan- guage and chemistry between the couple. They have been going on holidays and visiting rock shows together. Recently at Katrina’s birthday during a screening of Ship Of Theseus, Ranbir got up and started sing- ing Happy Birthday to Katrina, in front of everyone else. So yes, the couple are in love and they want the world to see that!” Presently Kat is in Sri Lanka with Ranbir who is shooting for his film Bombay Velvet. Satyagraha has essence of Mahatma Gandhi, Anna Hazare, says Prakash Jha

ilmmaker Prakash Jha says that Fhis upcoming movie Satyagraha is not the story of Mahatma Gandhi or social activist Anna Hazare, but the essence is the same. “Middle class people across the world protest if they are in a democ- racy. The film is not about Anna Haz- are... there is no reflection of his pro- test. But the essence is with Nirbhaya (case), Mahatma Gandhi and Anna Hazare,” Jha told reporters at an event here yesterday. The Satyagraha team including Amitabh Bachchan, Arjun Rampal, Ajay Devgn, Manoj Bajpai, Kareena Kapoor and Amrita Rao yesterday launched ‘Raghupati Raghav’ song from the film. “We have retained the initial lines of original prayer and added new lines keeping in mind the sentiments of people today,” Jha said. The director feels the film will en- tertain the audience. Jha said the film is not his attempt to provide solution. In the film, Bachchan plays a man wants while Kareena Kapoor is a hard asks,” Kareena said. uses all means to break the system. who is a firm believer of truth, he is like headed TV reporter. In the movie, Arjun Rampal is Jha is all praise for his star cast, a new age Gandhi. Amrita Rao plays “My character isn’t inspired from showcased as a strong socially com- saying everyone has worked hard in daughter-in-law of Big B. Ajay Devgn any journalist. Dignity, and integrity is mitted person who wants to become a the film. portrays an entrepreneur who uses what I am. politician. Manoj Bajpai plays the char- Satyagraha is slated to release the ways of the world to get what he I can’t ask the questions like media acter of the wily young politician who next month. www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA Chai With ATODAY 34 • August 2013 Chai with.... Interview by Manju Walia some phrases, spelled them out, and Article by Deepa Walia asked them to write it down. He had 7/24/2013 no faith in their ability so checked their his month, Asia Today had the plea- notebooks and upon seeing what he Tsure of speaking with MLA Jagrup saw got so upset that he told them to Brar from Surrey, British Columbia, leave. What had happened was that Canada who was in the USA due to his even though the professor was speak- daughter participating in a basketball ing and spelling out phrases in English, tournament. Happily married with two Mr. Brar was writing them in Punjabi children, MLA Brar came to Canada script. The professor asked them to as many others with 20 dollars in his leave saying they would never become pocket looking for a bright future and anything in life, but today Mr. Brar is paved a path far beyond his imagina- an MLA in Surrey, BC where the only tion by being elected into the MLA post language you can speak is English. three times. His point to students is that if him and Mr. Brar is originally from District his friends can get to the positions they Bhatinda in Punjab. He completed human being can contribute to bringing and give them better paths to dedicate have, then all of you can do anything 10th grade in his village and then went change at the highest level in society. their energy and time. Many of these and you should not let anyone tell you on to do his BA from Mohindra College He remembered coming to this country programs have had great successes are and are not capable of. in Patiala. After that, he completed his with 20 dollars and going to a universi- but still have a long way to go. In closing, Mr. Brar again stressed Masters in Philosophy and briefly held ty seeking education, a university that When asked about his plans to on the issue of education. He started a position as lecturer. He was selected gave him admission with non-payable contribute back to his roots and help- with commending Indo-American and by the Public Service Commission as grants and student loans and opened ing bring about similar changes in Pun- Indo-Canadian community for coming Assistant Director of Youth Services new doors for him. Being part of a com- jab, he responded very practically stat- so far in the last century. Individuals and served in that position for three munity that had values which are close ing that the people living there have to that came here to find employment years. He was invited by his brother in to his heart and principles (such as a make it happen. Even though his heart now give employment to thousands 1991 to Manitoba, where he completed universal healthcare system which agrees with wanting to contribute and of individuals; those that came and his Masters in Public Administration at treats all people as equals and a good help, the reality from a professional there were laws created against them the University of Manitoba graduating education system which opens up new standpoint is that all he can do from are now lawmakers. He referenced in 1994. In 1995, he moved to Surrey opportunities for all regardless of finan- the outside is write letters and maybe times when turbans were not allowed and started working with PICSS – Pro- cial contribution – something his own the issues will be taken more seriously in Canada and caps had to be worn, gressive Intercultural Community Ser- country was greatly lacking) and being but the power to impact change lies in the rights of the community were taken vice Society. Focused on newcomer able to bring about additional improve- the officials of that district and country. away such as the ability to vote, immi- South Asians to Canada, the organi- ments and changes in that community As the saying goes, in his own words, grants made 50% less salary in similar zation taught them English language was something that drew him towards “You can lead the horse to water but positions, etc. Those before us worked and computer skills and assisted them the field of Canadian politics. cannot force it to drink it.” very hard to get us equal rights and with finding their first employment. He With all the great opportunities Mr. Brar also wanted to send a spe- even after that the first Indian elected in was the manager for developing pro- and benefits, there were also issues cific message to youngsters and teen- Canada was in 1959 and the first MLA grams for newcomers and assisted that Mr. Brar was passionate about ad- agers everywhere. Whenever he gets was elected in 1986. In the last century, thousands of people. After PICSS, dressing – one of them being the drug the opportunity, he goes and speaks to we have come a long way but the last he moved on to Self Employment and issues especially with youngsters of students all over the world telling many century was based on manual labor Entrepreneur Development Society all communities including South Asian. stories from his childhood. He shared and hard work. The coming century (SEEDS) as Executive director. In that There are many parts of the govern- one with us where he, as a student, is based on information and education organization, his role was to assist in- ment that are tackling that issue at skipped classes all through the year and if we don’t keep up with the trend, dividuals in starting and succeeding in various levels and the issue is very because he was involved in sports and we will again fall behind and not do jus- their own businesses. He trained over complex. Mr. Brar was part of the op- there was a lot of peer pressure and tice to the sacrifices and hard work of 500 people and was elected as a MLA position responsible for the Ministry of bullying for sports students to not at- our ancestors. He gave an example for the first time in 2004. Public Safety. He pushed the govern- tend classes. When it came time for of the largest university in BC where When asked what first made him ment to establish a task force dedicat- final exams, he and his friend thought 6,000 people graduate every year, out interested in Canadian politics, he re- ed to the drug issue and worked with they could slide by in all classes except of which 2,000 are Chinese and only plied that it had been his passion from school districts to identify young peo- English so they went to the professor 200 are Punjabi. His final message to college because it was a place where a ple at early stages that were vulnerable for assistance. The professor stated the community and children was that the best thing we can give to our chil- dren after giving them birth is not fancy cars and money but an education. Asia Today is grateful for the op- portunity and the time MLA Jagrup Brar gave our team and wishes him and his noble thoughts and aspira- tions continued success in the com- ing years. We hope some youngsters read this and are inspired by his stories and thoughts, contributing to Mr. Brar’s goals of inspiring youngsters every- where. The community is very proud of someone from our community who has reached great heights. www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz SIA • August 2013 ATODAY 35

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y parents were married on the Then, that is in the year 1948, there M5th of July 1948. In those times was only one single railway line. The the bride and the groom were not very train left Coimbatore station reason- important people in the marriage. Mar- ably on time, it seems. Few years riages were considered natural and a back trains in India were generally necessity, like going to the toilet or late. Not like the local trains now in eating food. The families decided suit- Mumbai where for example you can able alliances, and if a first or second set your watch looking at the heaving cousin or close relative was available bursting with people train arriving at with a passable qualification or age the Church gate or Victoria terminus, difference of the male being older than at 8.52 in the morning or leaving 6.33 gle meter gauge line with the compart- the next day the actual wedding was the girl, it was finalized by the elders in the evening etc. It was a pleasant ment containing my father and grand- to be conducted. So then the bride in the family. There was not much talk journey with the summer having bid its parents and all the relatives happily and her huge family of friends and rel- of dowry and the gold ornaments were adieu and Tamil Nadu never having to talking to each other and eagerly wait- atives waited for the bride-groom and not such a big issue as to cause dowry boast of torrential rain in the month of ing to participate in the wedding. My his people to arrive by train from early deaths. July like Maharashtra or Coorg can. father though having studied in Presi- morning of 4thof July to the evening My mother was then a fiercely The train took a circuitous dency College Madras,(now called and into the night of 4th. They waited independent woman, who now con- route,(due to certain derailments on Chennai) had never seen my mother and waited but the train never came. tinues to be so, but in a different way. the regular single track) covering all before their nuptial ceremony, in spite That did not stop anyone from hav- Having had four children and having the towns with temples, in Tamil Nadu. of her being his cousin. My mother ing a good time in eating all the deli- them married to different families with The Hindu temples have these huge used to visit her maternal uncle’s fami- cious and elaborate food and the gen- different back grounds and having had gopurams that you can spot from afar. ly in Coimbatore, regularly in her sum- eral festival mood of all the close knit grandchildren and assisting the fami- My father feels that whatever good mer breaks but she does not remem- family being together wearing grand lies of her children and being influ- fortune he has had in his marriage, ber to have seen my father or having clothes and glittering jewelry. enced by various friends and orthodox apart from the constant regret that he interacted with him earlier to her mar- At last the beautiful Blue Moun- thoughts there may be a shift in her obeyed his father blindly, is because of riage. There was no question of decid- tain having gone round the temples of focus on independence. Her ambition the darshan of all the godly gopurams ing before the final vow, whether the Tamil Nadu chugged with due majesty then was to study to become a doctor. he saw through the windows of the bride or groom will be suitable on the into the railway station of Egmore. All But of course even her fiercely inde- train, which chugged along slowly and basis of their nature,skin color,height, the elderly menfolk with their wives pendent spirit did not stand a chance steadily to the Egmore, Chennai sta- weight or length of their nose etc. So and children eagerly alighted having against her widowed mother’s wish to tion. Coimbatore is quite close to the long it was all in the family, it was fine. travelled twenty four hours in addi- get her married having the responsi- Blue Mountains, hence the train was While the groom’s party were on tion to their planned travel. It is just bilityof another five children younger named as Blue Mountain. their way to reach the marriage venue overnight journey from Coimbatore to than her, to be settled. The marriage party from Coim- on the 4th morning of July 1948, the- Chennai. There may not have been My father though the eldest son batore, consisted of around fifty people bride’s extended family were all out any bride’s party to receive them as in the family of eight children did including children and elders. In mod- spending money towards the decora- is the usual custom, as the train was not have much of a say about his ern times there are weddings where tions and preparations for the wed- so very late.The groom and his family life,either. So then generally parents the invitation bans children from at- ding. It is the custom in south Indian are the revered guests who obliging- decided their child’s future not with in- tending , as some people feel having Brahmin families for the family of the ly unburden the parents of the bride difference or lack of foresight or plan- children to participate in a public func- bride to bear all the expenditures in- from the responsibility or the liability of ning but with the available resources tion is not such a good idea with them cluding buying suits for the groom. So their daughter. They were more than at their command be it money, access running around and shouting or cry- the maternal uncles, who were hold- twenty four hours late in arriving, or to information about the choices avail- ing, spoiling thegeneral atmosphere ing the purse strings of all the savings maybe there was some vague cous- able, access to the knowhow of find- be it joyous or solemn occasion.Some my mother’s father had left on his un- in or brother waiting to welcome the ing out what their offspring’s aptitude families never let their children attend timely death, did not shirk any expen- guests. is or which is the best future for their a funeral or see a dead body. diture in decorating even the streets, My father’s family unloaded all child considering their own set val- Well as I was saying the marriage where the marriage hall was situated, their beddings and boxes from the ues and background. However every party had their respective roles of bed- with lights and other decorations of train with the help of porters and man or woman most of the time feels dings and boxes with silk sarees and banana trees and mango leaves. the porters stacked all the luggage or have this hidden grievance against clothes for the men and children. Dur- Grand meals of many courses, against a pillar in the station. The rela- their parent for their own failures or ing the wedding, generally the bride with variety of sweet meats and mu- tives and friends got into taxis and my successes or how their life has turned and grooms’ party stayed in the mar- sic programmes were arranged with father was left with the luggage, to be out to be. No true credit is given to riage hall where the marriage was great enthusiasm and cost. It is the looked after, as they had to arrange the parents, except in Indianmovies, conducted. They were not booked custom for the wedding to be celebrat- for a proper transport to carry the load. where the widowed mother puts her into any three or five star hotels. Ho- ed atleast for four days. The previous In their eagerness to go to the venue son through college stitching clothes tels and restaurants did not have the day to the actual wedding ceremony, and having had the tedious journey endlessly. patronage they have now. Eating out that is on the 4th the “groom’s party” they forgot that they had to take my Coming back to my story, the wed- or staying in a hotel was never con- were expected to arrivein the morn- father to the venue as well, him being ding was to be conducted in Chennai sidered as a possibility. People carried ing and would be welcomed and a a necessary member in his marriage where the bride and her natal family their own package of food when they formal engagement ceremony be con- ceremony. resided.My father and his family were travelled. ducted with exchange of gifts and new -Sheela Ramanathan to travel from Coimbatore via Erode. The train wove its way in the sin- clothes for the groom and bride and [email protected] www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz SIA • August 2013 ATODAY 37

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Expires 8-31-2013 Expires 8-31-2013

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