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Home , Aadmi Aur Insaan, Dharmputra, Dhool Ka Phool, Faasle, Gandhi Jayanti, Gandhi Square

A Publication of the Embassy of , Washington, D.C.

November 1, 2012

I India RevieI w Vol. 8 Issue 11 www.indianembassy.org

‘Mahatma ’s importance timeless’

n India, US to deepen n Ambassador Rao n ‘King of Romance’ Yash economic cooperation inaugurates CGI Atlanta Chopra passes away Ambassador’s PAGE Global Leadership in 2020 I was invited to participate at a panel discussion at the Global Leadership Summit organized by the Meridian International Center on 12, 2012 in Washington DC. I spoke at the Ambassador’s panel on ‘What a Good Global Leader (and Citizen) Looks Like in 2020’.

eadership involves certain constants regardless of the era or time zone in which we L are placed. Human beings are not very different from each other regardless of the languages they speak or the cultures they belong to. Of course, the scale and extent of the challenges that humankind faces today is of a different order from even fifty years ago. When I was growing up in Bangalore, we would never have imagined the evil of suicide terrorism, or the rise of Al Qaeda. Today we have leaders and leaders. Leaders who advocate hate and violence have a larg - er following across the planet than ever before. Good leadership and good leaders have to develop effective Ambassador Nirupama Rao speaking at the first Meridian Global Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C. on October 12. Also seen is Ambassador Stuart Holliday, President and CEO of Meridian strategies to overcome and vanquish International Center. this opposition, and the fear, ignorance and the alienation that fuels the people’s agenda in all our democ - violence and terror. The demand for better racies. Our leaders will have to listen It has been said before, and I would and read the faces well. They will have like to repeat it here, there has never education, for jobs and to be leaders who deliver. The people been greater need for an equal repre - livelihoods, for equality will ask for no less. sentation of women in positions of and inclusion and better If our people, especially our young, leadership and responsibility in govern - have to be global citizens with open, ment, in parliaments, in business, in opportunities, will be searching minds, we must have lead - the non-profits and NGOs, and in aca - topmost on the people’s ers with a global outlook. Leaders demics. It’s a fifty-fifty representation agenda in all our who value diversity, leaders who are we must aspire for. That should be the sensitive to the needs of minorities, mission for our century. democracies. Our leaders who propagate the importance of Everybody recognizes the need for will have to listen and education, the protection of the envi - inspirational leadership. The word read the faces well ronment, sustainability and conserva - 2 charisma is also a natural attachment tion, the need for a civil society that is to this definition. To be inspirational tolerant and not divisive, who pro - and charismatic means more than just In 2020, the revolution of rising mote inclusiveness and who eschew inspiring with words and flights of elo - expectations in the developing world is narrow and religiously intolerant quence. It is about walking the talk and going to define the character of our agendas. moving people to walk alongside you, times. The youth demographic in as did when he countries like India is going to acquire The full text of my speech can be defied the might of the in overriding importance. The demand viewed at: http://www.indianem - India, when he led thousands of people for better education, for jobs and liveli - bassy.org/prdetail2044/ambassado - to march to the seashores to harvest hoods, for equality and inclusion and randrsquo%3Bs-blog%3A-global- salt and defy the pernicious salt laws. better opportunities, will be topmost on leadership-in-2020

November 2012 India Review Cover STORY How would Gandhi have viewed the world of 21 st century? Ambassador Nirupama Rao dwells with several pertinent questions

peaking on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi’s birth 3 anniversary at the Gandhi S Memorial Center in Bethesda, Maryland, on October 2, Ambassador Nirupama Rao under - lined the “timeless importance of Gandhian thought and values in our daily lives”. She said Mahatma Gandhi would continue to inspire political, social and religious wisdom to successive genera - tions across the world. “There is,” she Ambassador Nirupama Rao speaking at the Gandhi Memorial Center on the occasion of said, “an undeniable and essential uni - on October 2. (Photo: Susan Hayden) versality about Gandhian ideas and ideals that were, are and will remain explaining, or searching for an answer, regime. He empowered his people, relevant across generations.” to these and myriad other challenges but told them never to hate their Ambassador Rao said Gandhi’s phi - the world confronts today? How do we oppressors. He ended apartheid by losophy showed the “immeasurable establish the relevance of his thoughts showing the power of courage and reserves of humility and compassion and ideals in this new century? truth, as he laid the foundations of a that exist within the human mind.” Let me begin by recalling five icon - new era in South Africa and promot - Leading a simple life, Gandhi worked ic individuals, who have believed in ed a path of reconciliation. tirelessly for the upliftment of the weak Gandhi ji ’s ideas. They were and are The third icon, who is admired in as part of the larger nation-building inspired by the Gandhian philosophy both India and the United States, and exercise, she said. of humanism, compassion and non- across the world, for her fearless non- violence. They showed courage and violent resistance is Nobel Laureate Excerpts from Ambassador Rao’s conviction in standing up to adversi - who I was privi - speech on the occasion ty and embracing the truth. They, in leged to personally meet when I visit - As we remember Mahatma Gandhi their own way, became the change ed Yangon in June last year, when I and recall his principles and ideals they wanted to see in the world. was the Foreign Secretary of India. today, one question that crosses our And they did so decades after She has often acknowledged mind is — how would Gandhi ji have Gandhi ji had lived and walked on our Gandhi ji ’s influence in a life she has viewed the world of the 21 st century? planet. One of them dared to “have a dedicated to freedom and democracy. What would he write today in the dream” — of equality, opportunity Gandhi ji has been a great light for or the Harijan — and liberty, and to heal a nation another great spiritual leader, who, journals where he often expressed his wounded by racial segregation. much like the Mahatma, uniquely inner voice? Can you visualize an elec - Inspired by Gandhi ji , Dr. Martin blends spiritualism with humanism, tronic version, or a Facebook or Luther King, Jr. saw the spirit of the religiosity with courage, and faith account for these journals? I certainly historic at Dandi resonat - with conviction. His Holiness the can, because Gandhi ji was a commu - ing in his own courageous Dalai Lama views the success of nicator par excellence. How would he Montgomery Bus Boycott. Gandhian philosophy in its most tan - have reflected on the Euro-zone crisis, Another man, lovingly called gible outcomes. or the Arab Spring, or the terrorist Madiba by his compatriots, and And finally, President Obama. attacks of 9/11 in this country and of whom the world knows as Nelson Speaking before India’s Parliament in 26/11 in ? Mandela, emulated Gandhi ji in November 2010 about how he was How would Gandhi ji apply the pre - choosing to suffer a long incarcera - influenced and inspired by Mahatma cepts of his ideals and values in tion in order to humble a tyrannical Gandhi, President Barack Obama

November 2012 India Review Cover STORY

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1. Srimati Kamala, Founder, Gandhi Memorial Center, addressing the gathering at the Gandhi Memorial Center 7 on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti on October 2 . 2. Carrie Trybulec, Director, Gandhi Memorial Center, speaking on the occasion. 3. From left, Krishna Ramdas, Rebecca Rahman, Renu Suri, Samia Mahbub Ahmad, Rashad Ullah, and Rishi Das presenting ‘Vaishnavajanato’. 4. Charu Narasimhan presenting a Bharatanatyam dance. 5. Supriya Dutt and Jeffery Bauer presenting ‘Jibon Jokhon’ 6. Sudeshna Basu and Jeffrey Bauer presenting ‘Aguner Poroshmoni’. 7. Guests in attendance.

(Photos: Susan Hayden) 4

said, “I am mindful that I might not personalities, who embodied in one The full text of Ambassador be standing before you today, as way or the other Gandhi ji ’s ideas and Nirupama Rao’s speech on the President of the United States, had it ideals, were recognized — long after occasion can be viewed at: not been for Gandhi and the message the death of Mahatma Gandhi — for http://www. indianembassy.org/prde - he shared with and inspired America their contributions to global peace and tail2036/speech-by-ambassador- and the world”. harmony. Each of them went on to be nirupama-rao-at-gandhi-jayanti-cel - It is no coincidence that all these five a Nobel Peace Prize laureate. ebrations

November 2012 India Review IMF-World Bank ANNUAL MEETINGS

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Finance Minister P. Chidambaram addressing the press conference of the G-24 Ministerial Meeting in Tokyo, Japan, on October 11. (Photo: IMF) Expedite IMF quota reforms: India At the Annual Meetings of the IMF and the World Bank, India’s Finance Minister P. Chidambaram said the policy makers must brig about the necessary changes in the institutional and operational architecture of the IMF

ddressing the 26 th Meeting Minister said, “Actions by central To quell doubts about the long- of the International banks by providing liquidity may have term sustainability of the monetary Monetary and Financial helped calmed the markets and avert - union, the policy makers must bring A Committee (IMFC) in ed aggravation of the crisis, but they about the necessary changes in its Tokyo on October 13, during the cannot be a substitute for a longer- institutional and operational archi - Annual Meetings of the IMF and the term solution.” tecture, the Finance Minister said. World Bank, Finance Minister P. He said that policy uncertainties in In the interest of safeguarding glob - Chidamabaram said that to address the advanced economies were also al economic and financial stability in the uncertainties facing the global affecting the growth prospects of future, the Finance Minister called for economy and put the global economy emerging market economies. global cooperation and urgent imple - on a sustainable growth path, the “Growth is faltering across regions, mentation of the 2010 Quota and authorities need to find long-term including in emerging market governance reform of the IMF. “We solutions. “The immediate challenge economies (EMEs),” he said. Fragile must not let the Quota Formula dis - is to prevent the adverse feedback financial market conditions, volatile cussions meander into areas which loop between banks and sovereigns. capital flows, increasing global com - are not part of the overall understand - However, in the absence of long-term modity prices, especially energy had ing reached at different G 20 and measures, uncertainty will continue, dented business confidence in many IMFC summits — that there will be a which will pose risk to global macro - EMEs, he said. “The sharp rise in clear shift of the quota shares in favor economic and financial stability,” global food prices is another major of the Emerging Market and Minister Chidambaram said. challenge that many emerging market Developing Countries, (EMDCs) to Noting that adverse feedback loop economies, especially those which reflect more clearly the shifting global of weak growth, weak fiscal position are already facing inflationary pres - economic scenario and to make deci - and weak banks as a major risk to sures, may have to contend with,” sion-making in the IMF more equi - global financial stability, the Finance Minister Chidambaram said. table,” the Finance Minister said.

November 2012 India Review IMF-World Bank ANNUAL MEETINGS

“We must also adhere to the time - line for completing this reform by January 2013 so that it becomes the basis for the 15 th General Review of quotas to be completed no later than January 2014,” he added. Stressing that GDP was the most important variable in the quota formu - la “as it is the most robust measure of relative economic weight and stake in the global economy”, the Finance Minister said the “most appropriate way to measure the real size of an econ - omy was in terms of purchasing power parity”. He therefore called for sub - Finance Minister P. Chidambaram at the BRICS Finance Ministers’ and Central Bank Governors’ (CVG) stantially increasing the weight of the meeting in Tokyo, Japan, on October 11. blended GDP variable in the formula “through a simple formula with GDP place a medium-term fiscal plan put the economy on a sustainable high - blend as the predominant variable and while avoiding excessive fiscal cor - er growth path, India had taken sever - with a higher share of GDP-PPP.” rection in the short run,” he said. He al measures in the recent period such Minister Chidambaram noted that said that the emerging market as liberalizing FDI norms for aviation the financial contributions made by economies would be severely affected and multi-brand retail and significant the member-countries to the IMF if the economic situation in the U.S. pass through in fuel prices. Saying that need not be linked with governance were to worsen. “Its impact on inflation had been a major concern for reforms. “These contributions need emerging market economies will be the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the to retain their temporary character; much more severe than in the case of Finance minister remarked, “The RBI they should not be looked upon as a the situation in the euro area.” has, therefore, kept the policy rate substitute to quota resources,” he He said that to offset the decline in unchanged at 8 per cent since April said. He also stressed that the inno - external demand in the context of 2012. However, in order to ensure that cent bystanders affected by the crisis, uncertain global macroeconomic envi - credit flows to productive sectors of particularly the low income coun - ronment, the emerging market the economy, the RBI has been man - tries, should be adequately protected economies should focus on strength - aging liquidity actively.” and sufficient resources must be ening domestic demand. He said the “We maintain that the IMF is ideal - made available for them. EMEs should also introduce structur - ly placed for anchoring global policy Minister Chidambaram called for al reforms and formulate appropriate coordination so as to remove the vul - urgently resolving the issues of fiscal supply responses to deal with the nerabilities and revive growth in the cliff and the lifting of the debt ceiling sharp increase in food prices. global economy on a sustainable in the US. “The need is to put in Minister Chidambaram noted that to basis,” he concluded.

G-24 to Focus on job crEatIon, strEssEs on IMF quota rEForMs

t its eighty-eighth meeting in Tokyo, advanced economies (AEs) to take decisive It also urged the AEs to phase out export 6 Japan, on October 11, with steps towards addressing the policy uncer - subsidies and resist protectionism. AP. Chidambaram, Minister of Finance of tainties. The G-24 also underlined the importance of India, in the Chair, the Intergovernmental “We also believe that immediate and con - meeting the 2010 IMF’s quota and gover - Group of Twenty-Four on International certed action is needed to boost global growth nance reforms — comprehensive review of Monetary Affairs and Development said it through appropriate macroeconomic policies, the quota formula by January 2013 and the would “focus on job creation and the estab - the promotion of open trade and investment, completion of the Fifteenth General Review of lishment of effective and fiscally sustainable the repair of financial sectors, particularly in the Quotas by January 2014. “In our view, the ulti - social safety nets that protect the poor and major financial centers and vigorous structural mate goal must be to better reflect the grow - vulnerable”. Expressing concern about the reforms, while preparing the foundations for ing role of EMDCs (Emerging Market and fragility of the global economic and financial credible medium-term fiscal consolidation, once Developing Countries) as a whole in the glob - situation, the G-24 countries called on the the recovery is on a sound footing,” it said. al economy,“ it said.

November 2012 India Review Bilateral NEWS India, us to deepen economic cooperation During the third cabinet-level meeting of the Indo-US Economic and Financial Partnership in New , Finance Minister P. Chidambaram and U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner discussed ways to further lower trade and investment barriers between the two countries

ndia and the U.S. on October 7 9 agreed to deepen coopera - tion at various multilateral I fora, including the G20, and discussed ways to remove trade and investment barriers. “We agreed to deepen our cooper - ation bilaterally and in multilateral fora, including the G20, to contribute toward steering the global economy out of uncertainties,” India’s Finance Minister P. Chidambaram and U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner said in a joint statement after a meet - ing in . During the third cabinet-level meeting of the Indo-US Economic and Financial Partnership, the two leaders discussed ways to further lower trade and investment barriers. Finance Minister P. Chidambaram and U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy F. Geithner exchanging the joint “We realize that continued invest - statement at the Indo-US Economic and Financial Partnership meeting in New Delhi on October 9. ment in our infrastructure, in our peo - ple and in our institutions is critical to driving innovation, and increasing job creation and growth in our economy,” the joint statement said. Addressing a press conference, Treasury Secretary Geithner wel - comed the economic reform meas - ures announced by the Indian gov - ernment recently, saying it would help boost private investments. “India has achieved remarkable economic success in the last 15 years. The recent reforms advanced by From left, U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, Chairman of U.S. Federal Reserve Board Prime Minister Ben Bernanke and RBI Governor Dr. D Subbarao at the Reserve Bank of India in Mumbai on October 10. and Minister Chidambaram will help provide a foundation for stronger proposal to hike the FDI limit in offshore tax evasion. “We agreed to economic growth, an increase in insurance. strengthen mutual cooperation on investment, and more widespread Treasury Secretary Geithner said issues relating to illicit finance, gains in income,” he said. India and the U.S. had agreed on the including efforts to combat money India had announced a series of importance of improving coordination laundering, terrorist financing and reforms measures, including allowing on bilateral tax matters, including with other financial crimes,” he said. FDI in retail trade and cutting subsi - respect to the tax treaty and implemen - “Both countries are committed to dies on petroleum products earlier. tation of the Foreign Account Tax pursue close cooperation,” Minister The cabinet had also approved a Compliance Act (FATCA) to address Chidambaram said.

November 2012 India Review Ambassador’s ENGAGEMENTS Ambassador Rao’s interview to WTOP Radio Besides maintaining a crucial relationship with the US, Ambassador Rao deals with many other important issues, reports WTOP’ JJ Green. Excerpts:

ndia’s Ambassador to the U.S. The U.S. “pivot” toward the Asia- hasn’t had a weekend to herself Pacific region confirms that the rising since she came to Washington, economic and military power of the I in September 2011. East could outmatch Western powers “It’s a 24/7 assignment,” says if it loses focus. The U.S. decision to Nirupama Rao. turn its attention to that part of the Terrorism originating from , world is largely centered on counter- close ties with Iran, a special bond with balancing Chinese power in the Russia and maintaining and growing a region, the increased importance of crucial relationship with the United sea lanes as a conduit of global com - States dominate her time. merce and the free flow of informa - Seated in the large sunny, sitting tion in cyberspace. room on the park-side of the official In doing so, the polite U.S.-India residence in Washington’s trendy relationship since the end of the Cold Cleveland Park neighborhood, Rao, War, has developed into “a very clad in an exquisitely tailored sari, important, very crucial, very funda - made it clear she’s not just a pretty face Ambassador Nirupama Rao. (Photo: WTOP/ mental relationship,” said Rao. JJ Green) in Washington. She pulled no punches when dis - The full text of the interview cussing difficult and delicate problems may be seen at: http://www.indianem - facing her country - beginning with bassy.org/prdetail2065/text-of-ambas - Pakistan. sador-nirupama-raoandrsquo%3Bs- “India is concerned about terrorism interview-with-national-security-corre - and extremism which has flown in the spondent-j.j.-green-of-wtop-radio-on- direction of India from Pakistan over october-16%2C-2012 the years,” said Rao. Pakistani role, there were Pakistani She suggested Pakistan has not been agents, Pakistani citizens who were forgiven, and no one has forgotten, involved in this cannot be denied,” Ambassador calls on what happened on Nov. 26, 2008, in said Rao. Governor Beverly Perdue the Indian capital of Mumbai. Almost four years after the attack, During shocking and expertly “we have yet to really see a satisfacto - planned attacks that lasted several ry closure to the investigations into days, “more than 170 people were that attack. We have conveyed and killed in the attack by terrorists who constantly stressed to Pakistan that it had planned this in Pakistan,” said is necessary for our two countries to Rao. cooperate meaningfully in bringing These were operatives she said, those people who were responsible “who came across from Pakistan, for this attack to book to see that jus - 8 launched the attack on the Taj Mahal tice is done.” hotel and other installations.” Rao said there’s serious concern While India’s government says it’s within India that it could happen again. committed to exploring ways to create “Because there are safe havens in a normalized relationship with Pakistan. There are groups like the Pakistan, Rao makes it clear: It is not Lashkar-e- Taiba, as you know, a talking about amnesty. group that is described globally, who The Indian government is convinced are able to move around pretty freely it was a terrorist attack from beginning to broadcast, to address their con - Ambassador Nirupama Rao meets with Governor of North Carolina Beverly Eaves to end. stituencies within the country,” she Perdue on October 8. “And the fact that there was a said.

November 2012 India Review Embassy EVENTS

Ambassador hosts pre-Meridian Ball dinner at Embassy Residence

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4 1. Ambassador Nirupama Rao welcoming and addressing the guests at the pre-Meridian Ball dinner hosted at the Embassy Residence on October 12. 2. Former Governor of Michigan and former U.S. Ambassador to Canada James Blanchard thanking Ambassador Nirupama Rao for hosting the pre-Meridian Ball dinner at the Embassy Residence. 3. Violinist Nistha Raj performing on the occasion. 4. Guests in attendance at the event.

Dr. Vishakha N. Desai at Embassy 1 2 3

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7 1. Ambassador Nirupama Rao addressing the guests at the reception hosted in honor of Dr. Vishakha N. Desai, President Emerita, Asia Society, at the Embassy Residence on October 18. 2. Dr. Desai addressing the audience on the occasion. 3. Ryan Brown, conductor and artistic director of Opera Lafayatte, speaking on the occasion. 4. Anuradha Nehru, founder, Kuchipudi Kalanidhi, addressing the guests. 5. Pianist Jeffery Watson presenting Barcarolle from Act 2 of Felicien David’s opéra comique Lalla Roukh . 6. Dancers Silpa Nanan, Asha Dwarka, Deviga Valiyl and Pragnya Thamire from the Kuchipudi Kalanidhi performing to the music of Pandit Shankar and Philip Glass. 7. Guest in attendance.

November 2012 India Review Embassy EVENTS

Play Like a Lion screened at the Embassy

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1. Dr. Masum Momaya, Curator of the Smithsonian’s Indian American 3. Joshua Dylan Mellars interacting with the guests during the screening Heritage Project, addressing the guests at the screening of the film of his film. Play Like a Lion: The Legacy of Maestro Ali Akbar Khan , hosted by the 4. Prof. S.V. Srinivas, ICCR visiting professor, discussing the film with Embassy of India in collaboration with the Smithsonian’s Indian Joshua Dylan Mellars. American Heritage Project at the Embassy on October 26. 5. A section of the audience interacting with Joshua Dylan Mellars at the 2. A still from the film Play Like a Lion: The Legacy of Maestro Ali Akbar screening of his film. Khan directed by Joshua Dylan Mellars. 6. Guests in attendance at the event.

November 2012 India Review Embassy EVENTS

Embassy hosts Fulbright scholars

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1. Deputy Chief of Mission Ambassador Arun K. Singh addressing the 3. Dr. Viresh Kumar Bhawra, Humphrey Fellow – India, Human Rights gathering at the reception hosted in honor of the visiting participants Center, University of Minnesota Law School, Minneapolis, speaking on of the Fulbright-Nehru International Education Administrators the occasion. Seminar at the Embassy on October 23. 4. Jim Moore, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Bureau of South and Central 2. Dr. Vandana Chakrabarti, Pro Vice Chancellor, SNDT Women’s Asian Affairs, U.S. Department of State, addressing the gathering. University, Mumbai, addressing the gathering. 5. A section of the audience at the event.

Other Events Fourth Annual World of Montgomery Festival 2

o showcase the rich cultural 1 heritage of Montgomery County through music, T dance, visual art, cuisine and story-telling, the Fourth Annual World of Montgomery Festival was organized in Downtown Wheaton on October 21. 3 The International Village exhibition this year featured India, China, El Salvador and Ethiopia. The Montgomery County government and the Wheaton Urban District were major partners in organizing the festival with the help of active community-based participation. Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett and Embassy representatives also attended the event.

India Celebrations at the Fourth Annual World of Montgomery Festival on October 21.

November 2012 India Review Other EVENTS Gandhi statue unveiled in Davie, Florida Unveiling the seven feet tall bronze statue, former President of India Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam applauded the ‘creative leadership’ of the organizers

ormer President of India Dr. lifetime struggle to achieve freedom for delegator and from one who demands APJ Abdul Kalam and Davie India. These steps are bordered by light - respect to one who facilitates self- Mayor Judy Paul unveiled a ed stone pillars which represent a “path - respect. He thanked the leadership of F seven feet tall bronze statue of way of light” leading up to the statue Davie, Broward County, state of Florida Mahatma Gandhi on October 2 in the itself. Then there are concentric circles and the Indian-American community Town of Davie, Florida. Thousands of with the curved wall behind it as if for the warm reception accorded to residents from the area, including showing the letter G (for Gandhi) from him. Indian American families joined the fes - above in an abstract form. The palm Declaring the day as the “World tivities despite the heavy rains. trees in the surrounding symbolize life, Peace & Mahatma Gandhi Day”, The 800 pound statue was sculpted eternity, wisdom and victory. Mayor Judy Paul called the ceremony a by Matt Glenn of Big Statues, Provo, Unveiling the statue, Dr. Kalam “living tribute to world peace and the Utah, in cooperation with Sculptor’s reflected on Gandhi’s life and the rele - quest for social justice”. Mayor Paul Guild. As a token of respect to Gandhi, vance of his teachings in today’s world. welcomed the former President and they also contributed toward the cost of He applauded the “creative leadership” enumerated many of his accomplish - the statue. of the Board of Trustees of the ments. She particularly drew attention Babu Varghese, a member of the Mahatma Florida — a of her audience to Dr. Kalam’s humble Board and an Engineer by profession, corporation organized for creating the beginnings and urged the children in the designed the Gandhi Square with half Gandhi Square in Davie. Dr. Kalam audience to follow his path. The mem - an acre of land that houses the statue. said that “creative leadership” meant bers of the Town Council, State The square patterns with alternating exercising the vision to change the tra - Senators Nan Rich and Eleanor Sobel colored step stones leading to the statue ditional roles from commander to and several elected officials were present represent the steps Gandhi took in his coach, manager to mentor, director to on the occasion. For the task bestowed on him, 1. Former President Dr. APJ Varghese said, “What an honor for an Abdul Kalam (center), 1 Indian living in America to design a Mayor Judy Paul (right) and Gandhi Square here!” Joy Kuttiyani Dr. Piyush Agrawal at the event. who initiated the project, called it “a 2. Mayor Judy Paul receiving a wonderful achievement for the Indian commemorative token of community!” appreciation from President Dr. Kalam and Dr. Piyush Among the members of the Board of Agrawal on behalf of the Trustees of the Mahatma Gandhi Indian Community. Square Florida, who were present on the 3. Gandhi Square Board of Trustees: From left, Hemant occasion, were Dr. Piyush C. Agrawal, Patel, Joy Kuttiyani, Babu Joy Kuttiyani, Babu Varghese, Shekar Varghese, Piyush Agrawal, Redddy, Chacko Philip, Hemant Patel, Vijay Narang, Sajan Kurian, and Chacko Philip. Vivek Swaroop and Dr Sajan Kurian. 12 2 3

November 2012 India Review Consulate EVENTS Ambassador Rao inaugurates CGI Atlanta For passport services, the jurisdiction of the new Consulate will be Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virgin Islands

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Ambassador Nirupama Rao addresses the audience at the inauguration of Mayor of Sandy Springs Eva Galambos addressing the gathering at the inau - the of the Consulate General of India in Atlanta on October 22. guration of the Consulate.

From left, Margret Kumar, Congressman Rob Woodall, Dr. Galambos, Mayor of Ambassador Nirupama Rao addresses the gathering at the reception at Sandy Springs Eva Galambos, Ambassador Nirupama Rao, Consul General Ajit Heritage Hall of the city of Sandy Springs following the inauguration of the Kumar, Manager of City of Sandy Springs John F. McDonough at the event. Consulate.

he new Consulate General NE, Atlanta, GA-30342, the new guration. Dean and several members of India in Atlanta is now Consulate, however, started offering of the Consular Corps, President of open. Ambassador passport and miscellaneous consular the University of the West Georgia T Nirupama Rao formally services from October 1. For these Michael Berlon, President of the inaugurated the new Consulate on services, the consular jurisdiction of University of Columbus State October, 22 in the presence of Mayor the Consulate will be Alabama, University Dr. Beheruz Sethna, Dr. of Sandy Springs Eva Galambos, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Puerto Timothy S. Mescon, Professor Congressman Rob Woodall, Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee and Jagdish N. Sheth of Goizueta Chairman of the Democratic Party of Virgin Islands. Business School, leaders of the Georgia Michael Berlon, several lead - Ambassador Rao and Mayor Indian-American community, indus - ers of the Indian-American commu - Galambos addressed the audience at try leaders, representatives of cham - nity and media. a reception held at the Heritage Hall bers of commerce and media attend - Located at 5549 Glenridge Drive in Sandy Springs following the inau - ed the reception.

November 2012 India Review Consulate EVENTS

Ambassador Nirupama Rao at the new Consulate General of India in Atlanta with Sandy Springs Mayor Eva Galambos, US Representative Rob Woodall Ambassador Nirupama Rao and Consul General of India in Atlanta Ajit and the Indian community. Kumar with Governor of Georgia Nathan Deal on October 23.

During her visit to Atlanta, October 23 and discussed matters of Detailed information about the new Ambassador Rao also called on the mutual interest to improve relations Consulate can be accessed at: http:// Governor of Georgia Nathan Deal on between India and Georgia. www.indianconsulateatlata.org Consul General Ajit Kumar meets Indian community in South Florida ith the aim of familiarizing jurisdiction of the Embassy of India a reception in his honor during the the Indian community on and its consulates in the U.S. Consul visit. On behalf of the community, W how his office intends to General Kumar noted that Dr. Piyush C. Agrawal, in his wel - handle its passport and miscellaneous visa/OCI/PIO related services for the coming remarks, highlighted Consul services operation, Consul General of state of Florida would continue to be General Kumar’s accomplishments India in Atlanta Ajit Kumar visited handled by the Houston Office for during his various foreign service Miami, Fort Lauderdale and the Palm the time being. assignments. He also introduced the Beach area immediately after the The Indian community welcomed leadership of the community to the announcement of the new consular Consul General Ajit Kumar and held Consul General.

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Consul General Ajit Kumar addressing the Indian community in South Consul General Ajit Kumar with the Indian community leaders in South Florida. Florida during his visit.

November 2012 India Review Consulate EVENTS Gandhi Jayanti celebrations in New York Consul General of India in New York recalled Gandhi’s influence on world leaders such as and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

he Consulate General of India in New York in associ - ation with Bharatiya Vidya rd 15 T Bhavan organized the 143 birth anniversary celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi at the Union Square Park, near Gandhi ji ’s statue, on October 2. The programme began with offering of floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at the statue by the dignitaries and participants. Felicitating the gathering on the occasion, Consul General Prabhu Dayal said that on June 15, 2007, the United Nations General Assembly had declared October 2 to be marked each year as International Day of Non-Violence in honor of the great Gandhi Jayanti celebrated with fervour at Union Square Park, New York. leader of India’s Independence movement and proponent of satya - President Barack Obama reiterated Gandhian principles and emphasized graha and strategy of non-violence. his faith in Gandhian principles. He the need of spreading the message of The Consul General recalled further said that was a way non-violence, peaceful coexistence and Gandhi’s influence on world leaders of life that could be adopted by peo - harmonious living. such as Nelson Mandela and ple of all stratas of society. The event concluded with a recital of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., in shap - Other speakers, notably H. R. Shah, Gandhi ji’ s favorite , namely ing the non-violent movement for Dr. Navin Mehta and Kenny Desai of ‘Vaishnav Jan To’ and ‘Raghupati freedom and civil rights. He quoted the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, R aghava Raja Ram’ by the music the words of Albert Einstein about D. Trivedi of Bank of Baroda and Dr. academy of the Bharatiya Vidya Gandhi and also mentioned that Najma Sultana also spoke about Bhavan. ‘Make optimal use of India’s FDI initiatives’ peaking at a reception-cum- dinner hosted by the Consulate S General of India in New York, Minister of State for External Affairs E. Ahamed urged the members of the Indian-American community to make optimal use of the recently announced Foreign Direct Investment policy initiatives by the Government of India. From left, Minister of State for External Affairs E. Ahamed, Member of Parliament Dharmendra Yadav Yadav, India’s youngest Member of and Consul General Prabhu Dayal speaking at the reception. Parliament, who had addressed the United Nations in earlier, was Service officers for their acumen and Ahamed said that India’s foreign pol - also present on the occasion. foresightedness in chalking out icy was dictated by the country’s Complementing the Indian Foreign India’s foreign policy, Minister national interest.

November 2012 India Review Consulate EVENTS ‘Uphold the honor and dignity of India’ Minister of State for External Affairs Preneet Kaur applauded the Indian-American community for its role in strengthening the relationship between India and the U.S.

ommending the Indian- American community for its role in improving the rela - C tions between India and the U.S., Minister of State for External Affairs Preneet Kaur urged the Indian diaspora to uphold the honor and dig - nity of India. Speaking at a reception-cum-dinner Consul General Prabhu Dayal (left) and Minister of State for External Affairs Preneet Kaur addressing hosted in her honor by the Consulate the audience at the reception. General of India in New York on October 18, Minister Kaur said that Dereck O’Brien and Deputy ures initiated by her in the Ministry. although the global economic slow - Permanent Representative of India to He also welcomed Anand Kumar and down had affected the Indian economy the United Nations Ambassador Dereck O’Brien who thanked she was hopeful of its resurgence soon. Manjeev Singh Puri. Ambassador Dayal for providing an Other dignitaries who graced the Admiring her valuable contribution opportunity to meet the Indian diaspo - occasion included former Minister of in the Ministry of External Affairs, ra. The two leaders talked about the Civil Aviation and Urban Development Consul General Ambassador Prabhu vibrancy of Indian democracy and its Anand Kumar, Member of Parliament Dayal, highlighted the welfare meas - economic resilience. ‘India Day’ celebration by Pace University CGI New York hosts CIIS alumni gathering 1 2 he Consul General of India in T New York hosted a reception for the New York Chapter of the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) alumni gathering at New India House on October 26. 3 4 Welcoming the gathering, Consul General Prabhu Dayal, citing exam - ples of ancient philosophy, underlined the values of integral education and its relevance in contemporary living. 1. Consul General of India delivering his wel - The highlight of the evening was a come remarks. lecture by Ameeta Mehra, Chairperson 2. Provost of the University Dr. Uday Sukhatme he Consul General of India in addressing the audience of the Gnostic Centre and 16 New York hosted a reception on 3. Consul General with senior officials of Pace International Centre for Integral October 19 at New India University Studies, New Delhi. T 4. Guests in attendance. House in recognition of the Pace University, New York, celebrating that U.S. for promoting closer understand - day as ‘India Day’. ing between the two countries. Consul General Prabhu Dayal said Speaking on the occasion, Provost that the celebration of ‘India Day’ by of the University Dr. Uday Pace University was indicative of the Sukhatme, thanked the Consul close relationship between India and General for hosting the evening Consul General Prabhu Dayal (left) and Ameeta the United States. He commended the reception as a part of the university’s Mehra, the guest lecturer of the evening, Indian academic community in the ‘India Day’ celebrations. speaking on the occasion.

November 2012 India Review Economy NEWS

8 percent GDP growth not Narayana Murthy receives 2012 Hoover Medal impossible to attain: PM .R. Narayana Murthy, co-founder of IT Ngiant Infosys who has used his business lluding to the downturn in success to “give back” to his native India, the Eurozone, Prime has been named recipient of the prestigious Minister Dr. Manmohan 2012 Hoover Medal. A Singh on October 19 said Murthy received the honor on October 22 17 India was in need of an aggregate at the Global Humanitarian Technology growth rate of 8 percent per annum Conference in Seattle, Washington. and stressed that although it won’t be The Hoover Medal was established in easy, it was also not unattainable. 1930 to recognize great, unselfish, non- The Prime Minister said India need - technical services by engineers to humanity. ed an aggregate growth rate of 8 per - Previous awardees include former U.S. pres - cent per annum to create new jobs for idents Herbert Hoover, Dwight more than 10 million persons who D. Eisenhower and James Earl Carter. would enter the labor force each year. Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh Murthy, who is the 70 th recipient since “This is not going to be an easy task, the medal’s inception, was recognized for given the international economic envi - Inevitably, India too has had to deal establishing a foundation that forges out - ronment. However, it is not unattain - with the fallout of slowing growth, standing improvements in healthcare, social able if we make determined efforts to falling exports and expanding deficits,” rehabilitation, rural uplift and education. increase our investment rate to 37-38 the Prime Minister said. The Infosys Science Foundation was percent, as was the case three years He underlined the importance of established in 2009 to promote science ago,” Prime Minister Singh said. creating “an environment conducive research in India. “The continuing uncertainty and for increased investment and savings One of the world’s most admired busi - weaknesses in the Eurozone rates”, and called for devoting particu - ness leaders, Murthy co-founded Infosys economies have hobbled the pace of lar attention to investment in infra - Limited in 1981. growth, including in Asian economies. structure sectors.

IBS acquires US hotel ‘Doing business in India easier now’ booking solutions firm oing business in India has BS Software Services, headquartered at become easier with the coun - ITechnopark in Thiruvananthapuram D try implementing 17 regulato - announced on October 24 that it had ry reforms, states a new joint study by acquired Atlanta-based Hotel Booking International Finance Corp (IFC) and Solutions (HBSi) through a multi-million dol - World Bank released on October 23. lar deal. However, when it comes to starting With this acquisition, over hundred lead - a business in India, the report said the ing players in the hospitality industry, country’s ranking was 173 out of 185 including Starwood, Harrahs, Raffles, countries. Asia have implemented 65 regulatory Ramada, Fairmont and Kerzner on the sup - According to the report, India has reforms to make doing business easier. ply partner side, as well as Expedia, Orbitz improved the regulatory environment The study assesses regulations and Travelocity on the distribution side, will for local entrepreneurs more than any affecting domestic firms in 185 join the IBS stable. other economy in South Asia since economies and ranks the economies in The acquisition was made by buying over 2005. 10 areas of business regulation, such as the entire shareholding of Crosslink Capital, Among other things, India has starting a business, trading across bor - the San Francisco-based leading private equi - reduced the time required to obtain a ders, and resolving insolvency. ty and venture capital firm. Crosslinks Capital building permit by establishing strict The report finds that India is the first has over $1.8 billion in assets with invest - time limits for preconstruction economy in the region to make dealing ments in around 100 companies. approvals. with construction permits easier for The report said economies of South local firms since 2005.

November 2012 India Review Science NEWS ‘India a treasure house of knowledge’ naugurating the 4 th International Conference on Medicinal Plants and Herbal I Products (ICMPHP-2012) at Johns Hopkins University Campus, Montgomery, Maryland, on September 6, Ambassador Nirupama Rao said that the popularity of com - plementary and alternative medicine or traditional medicine was growing worldwide rapidly and that India’s ancient systems of medicines were a treasure trove for both preventive and From left, Ambassador Nirupama Rao delivering the keynote address; Dr. Krishna Banaudha, curative healthcare. “The World Organizing Secretary of 4 th ICMPHP, speaking on the occasion. Health Organization estimates that Following is an excerpt from herbal and traditional medicines are Ambassador Rao said Ambassador Nirupama Rao’s still the mainstay of significant num - speech on the occasion: ber of people around the world, that there had been a “Medicinal plants and products mainly in the developing countries, steady upsurge in derived from them have been used for primary health care,” she pointed global trade in through ages across different coun - out. tries. And the therapeutic use of Ambassador Rao underlined the medicinal plants and herbal medicines has been gaining efforts taken by India to promote the products, including considerable momentum in the world use of medicinal plants and the gums and resin, essential during the past decade. The World Indian system of medicine during her Health Organization estimates that speech. She said that there had been oil, vegetable saps, herbal and traditional medicines are a steady upsurge in global trade in plants and extracts still the mainstay of significant num - medicinal plants and products, thereof ber of people around the world, including gums and resin, essential mainly in the developing countries, oil, vegetable saps, plants and extracts for primary health care. thereof. “India’s share in global experts from around the world. India possesses an unmatched her - export is also growing and was about “The aim of the Conference is to itage represented by its ancient sys - $790 million in 2010,” she said. provide a vibrant platform for eminent tems of medicine which are a treasure Commending the organizers of the researchers, academicians, physicians, house of knowledge for both preven - three-day conference for their efforts traditional medical practitioners, man - tive and curative healthcare. in promoting greater awareness and ufacturers & exporters of herbal prod - Complementary and alternative med - international collaboration in differ - ucts, representative of the corporate icine or traditional medicine is rapid - ent aspects of the medicinal and sector, marketing consultants and ly growing worldwide. In India also, herbal plants, Ambassador Rao said NGOs from all over the world,” Dr. there is resurgence of interest in the that India and the United States has Krishna Banaudha, Director Genoma Indian Systems of Medicine. India immense potential for strengthening Ayurveda, the Organizing Secretary of has unique distinction of possessing collaboration in areas of healthcare, 4th ICMPHP-2012, said. large varieties of medicinal plants, 18 bio-technology and medical research. Welcoming India’s decision to knowledge associated with them and “And it is in accordance with our make clinical trials mandatory for all a significant network of infrastruc - development objectives of providing the existing and new Ayurvedic ture required for their promotion and efficient and affordable delivery of medicinal products in the country, propagation. India has 15 agro-cli - health care services,” she said. Dr. Banaudha said the conference matic zones and medicinal plants are Organized by the George would help establish a link with the distributed across all regions, diverse Washington University School of scientific and research institutions for habitats and landscapes. Medicine and Public Health, taking this science of Ayurveda, India has one of the oldest and Washington DC, the three-day con - medicinal plants and herbal product most diverse cultural traditions, asso - ference starting from September 6, developments to the next level of ciated with the use of medicinal attracted more than 200 participant growth and scientific enquiry. plants.”

November 2012 India Review Diaspora NEWS Transforming the landscape of rural Rajasthan

hrough his innovative rain - water harvesting project ‘Aakash Ganga’, Indian- T American Dr. BP Agrawal is pioneering social change, and trans - forming the landscape in rural Rajasthan. So far, Aakash Ganga has provided safe water to six villages, 19 home to 10,000 villagers in Rajasthan’s most drought prone areas. With the help of grants from the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, and philanthropic contribu - tions from the Indian diaspora, Aakash Ganga is set to provide water to 50,000 people by 2013. Explaining the project Dr. Agrawal said, “Aakash Ganga is a rainwater harvesting scheme which channels rooftop rainwater through gutters and drainpipes to two-tier, underground reservoirs, where it is then available for the year round use of the village.” Aakash Ganga aims to be systemi - cally sustainable. So once established, the project supports itself: economical - ly, culturally, socially, institutionally, (Clockwise from top) Dr. BP Agrawal receiving the Energy Globe World Award from UNEP Executive operationally, ecologically and techno - Director Achim Steiner; Arogya Ghar personnel at work in rural Rajasthan and a 40,000 litre Aakash Ganga logically. To ensure scalability, Aakash tank at Raila village in Rajasthan. Ganga adapted the model of the utility industry and simplified it to ‘rooftop and the Energy Globe World Award, CEO of TEOCO Corporation, is rentals’. It rents rooftops from home - both given to those who spark and sus - addressing the need for basic health - owners to acquire rainwater harvesting tain innovation, and the inventive spirit. care in rural Rajasthan. Arogya is train - rights, a process similar to the utility Aakash Ganga comes under the ing a cadre of high school educated industry’s acquisition of passage rights umbrella institution, Sustainable women to operate healthcare kiosks, or for a fee. Innovations( www.si-usa.org ). ‘clinics’. Earlier, Aakash Ganga and In 2010, Dr. Agrawal won the Another Sustainable Innovations off - Arogya Ghar both received the World Lemelson — Massachusetts Institute spring, Arogya Ghar, created in part - Bank’s $200,000 Development of Technology Award for Sustainability, nership with Atul Jain, founder and Marketplace award for innovation. ‘27 th ASEI national convention a major success’ ith over 300 guests, including scien - Ravi Saligram, CEO of OfficeMax, delivered tists, engineers, entrepreneurs and the keynote address at the convention that fea - Wcorporate executives attending tured over 18 technical speakers from academia GET2012 — the 27th national convention of and the industry such as Boeing, NASA, the American Society of Engineers of Indian provided unparalleled opportunity to learn, Harman International, DTE Energy, Ford Motor Origin (ASEI) at the Ford Community & exchange information and network,” the ASEI Company and others. Besides panel discussions Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, Michigan, said. Mayor of the City of Detroit Dave Bing on green technologies, merit scholarships on October 6, the organizers have termed the described the convention day as “Green worth $5,500 were awarded to engineering convention a major success. “The convention Engineering & Technology Day”. students from all across the nation.

November 2012 India Review Trends IN SOCIETY

Windows into diverse India — style Indian audience is increasingly appreciating the movies that go beyond the obvious and showcase different shades of Indian culture

ollywood is going (Top) Vidya Balan in a still from Said an excited Sircar: “This is a pan-Indian. ; (Left) Rani Mukherjee new trend, which is very fascinating; plays a Marathi girl in Aiyaa From Parsi and and the best part is that these films are BMarathi to culture, as I am a accepted by the audience. I really Gujarati and Bengali, Bengali. Thanks to the appreciate this era. This is a tribute to filmmakers are bringing audience, they are Indian cinema.” diverse cultures to the allowing us to experi - gave insights Hindi film firmament. ment.” into the Gujarati community in Hum And the credit for this Another small budget Dil De Chuke Sanam , Catholics in versatility goes to changing film, , wove Khamoshi — The Musical , Anglo tastes and mindsets of the both Punjabi and Bengali Indians in Black and Bengalis in viewers. cultures to show an interesting Devdas . His sister Bela focused on the 20 Sujoy Ghosh’s Kahaani is a case in cultural contrast. And it worked. Parsi community in her debut film point. Made in Hindi, it had a strong This $1-million project, made by Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi and it Bengali flavor and was also shot in director on an uncon - was satisfactory, businesswise. , appealing to audiences so ventional theme of , got “Parsi community talk is very much so that it earned almost 10 times the thumbs up from the viewers, earn - bindaas . They are very bold and sweet. more than its total cost. ing $8.2 million. I just picked up this aspect because I Lauding the new trend that he It is a win-win situation for all — the wanted to show them as nice and fun- believes is a “great time for Indian cin - viewer gets fresh stories to watch, loving people,” Bela, whose film was ema”, Ghosh said: “We make films directors are able to explore and exper - about a 40-plus Parsi couple, said. with themes we are familiar with. For iment and producers are laughing all The success of these films is proof of me, it was easy to write about Bengali the way to the bank. the viewers’ open-mindedness.

November 2012 India Review Short STORY Dharambuddhi and Paapbuddhi (From Panchatantra , a collection of ancient Indian fables)

n a village, there lived two friends. Their names were Dharambuddhi and I Paapbuddhi. Paapbuddhi was 21 not satisfied with the wealth he pos - sessed. Contrary to this, Dharambuddhi was not only intelli - gent, but had also a lot of wealth with him. Paapbuddhi made a plan to earn wealth with the help of Dharambuddhi. One day, he said to Dharambuddhi, “Friend, why are you wasting your tal - ent here? If you go to some other town, you may come across many opportunities to earn a lot of money and fame. If you like, I can also accom - pany you to the new town.” Dharambuddhi agreed to the pro - posal of Paapbuddhi. Both of them set out on a long journey to settle in a new town. Dharambuddhi became very other and at last, the matter was Dharambuddhi and other people, went famous and rich in the new town. taken to the court. to the tree. Paapbuddhi then went near After Dharambuddhi and Paapbuddhi narrated the whole story the tree and asked in a loud voice, “O, Paapbuddhi had earned a lot of and said to the judge, “My lord! divine tree, tell us the name of the money, they decided to return to their Dharambuddhi denies that he dug up thief.” home town. As they arrived near their the wealth in my absence. So, in my Immediately, there came a voice home town, Paapbuddhi said to opinion the court should hear the tree from inside the tree, “Dharambuddhi is Dharambuddhi, “I suppose it will be also who was the sole witness to all that the thief. He has stolen the wealth.” better if we don’t carry all our wealth happened to the wealth there.” The judge was wonderstruck to hear with us. Our relatives may ask for their The court agreed to this and fixed a the tree speak. share. Let’s take a nominal amount date when the court would visit the tree But, meanwhile, Dharambuddhi put with us and bury the rest in a pit here. to know the tree’s version. a heap of dry leaves and grass around When the need arises, we may come In the meantime, Paapbuddhi told the tree and lighted it. Everyone failed here again and take out the money. his father, “Father, you know, I’ve to understand what Dharambuddhi So, they dug up a pit and after bury - stolen the wealth of Dharambuddhi. I was upto. Soon there was a big fire ing their wealth in it, they went to their want you to help me, or else I’ll be around the tree trunk. After sometime, respective homes. But, thereafter, in caught and punished by the court.” Paapbuddhi’s father jumped out of the one dark night Paapbuddhi visited the “What am I supposed to do?” asked hollow of the tree yelling for help. Half pit all alone and along with his money Paapbuddhi’s father, “I don’t want to of his body was burnt and his eyes were he stole Dharambuddhi’s money also. lose the wealth.” popping out. After a few days Paapbuddhi went to “Well,” said Paapbuddhi, “there is a Now everything was crystal clear. Dharambuddhi and said, “Friend I Shami tree in the jungle. We had The judge understood the whole story. need some money. Let us go to the pit buried the wealth near this tree. The He held Paapbuddhi responsible for to take out some money.” tree is hollow from inside. You just hide the theft. He ordered his men of the Dharambuddhi agreed to it. When they in the hollow. When the judges ask you court to hang Paapbuddhi to death by reached the spot they dug up the pit, to name the thief you shout from inside the same Shami tree. but there was no wealth in the pit. the tree. ‘It’s Dharambuddhi’.” His The people were happy that “I never did it,” said father agreed to do it. Dharambuddhi, after all, got justice. Dharambuddhi in great anger. Both On the appointed day, the judge, Paapbuddhi was rightly punished for of them began to fight with each accompanied by Paapbuddhi and his greed and dishonesty.

November 2012 India Review Cinema NEWS ‘King of Romance’ passes away

e worked with Ashok B.R. Chopra, whom he assisted at the ‘SILSILA’ OF CHOPRA’S Kumar to Shah Rukh beginning of his Bollywood career. CREATIVE JOURNEY Khan and to He admitted that it was not easy to Yash Chopra gave Indian cinema some H in his start , his production path-breaking movies in his 53-year- over five-decade glorious cinematic house, in 1971. long career. journey, and the title of Yash Chopra’s To the world, Chopra was known n (1959) new film, , summed as the ‘King of Romance’, a well- n (1961) up the ace filmmaker’s philosophy — deserved title after he created memo - n Waqt (1965) making path-breaking movies till he rable love stories in Daag , Kabhi n (1969) could. Kabhie , Silsila , Chandni , Dil To Pagal n Ittefaq (1969) His death on October 21 Hai , and Veer Zaara . To keep up n Daag: A Poem of Love (1973) came weeks before the release with evolving audiences, he adapt - n Joshila (1973) of Jab Tak Hai Jaan , which he ed new trends in each era and n (1975) had announced would be his made most glamorous and trendy n — Love Is Life (1976) last directorial venture. romances. n Trishul (1978) Chopra, who But Chopra’s oeuvre was n (1979) turned 80 on not limited to just romance n Silsila (1981) September 27, was and relationships. In his n (1984) born in in five decade-long career, he n (1985) 1932 and eventu - experimented with all n Vijay (1988) ally came to genres. n Chandni (1989) Mumbai after His first film Dhool Ka n (1991) Partition. In an Phool in 1959 was the story n Parampara (1992) interview some of an illegitimate Hindu n (1993) days before he was child being brought up by a n (1997) hospitalized with Muslim. His next project, n Veer-Zaara (2004) 22 dengue, Chopra Dharamputra (1961) was n Jab Tak Hai Jaan (2012) told Shah Rukh another hard-hitting film on Khan: “My mother communal conflict, and was said do what your heart one of the first films to depict being the first Hindi film which did not says. She gave me `200 the Partition and Hindu funda - have any songs or an interval. and said my blessings are mentalism. In his career, he won many awards, with you. Go ahead and A precedent-setter, Chopra’s including the prestigious Dadasaheb don’t worry.” 1965 critically successful drama Phalke Award in 2001, six National He also said whatever he Waqt pioneered the concept of Awards, 11 Awards and was achieved, was because of his multi-starters in Bollywood, while conferred the Padma Bhushan in late brother and filmmaker Ittefaq (1969) was a taut thriller, 2005 .

November 2012 India Review Travel & TOURISM A fishing expedition While away your time fishing, go boating on the traditional vallam, meditate beside the backwaters and when tired, take a cool siesta in the lap of nature... Moushumi Mohanty decodes the real Kumarakom — a serene backwater destination in Kerala

Vembanad Lake a quiet eatery on the banks. We have to 23 A RIDE in a canoe becomes a canoe order lunch before we move on, says ride only if it is accompanied by loud one of the boatmen, who has become renditions of a boat song. Mind you, it our guide by now. As we alight, we cannot be any song. It has to be a boat notice a lobster in the water along the song or a fisherman song keeping pace bank. Though the lobster is moving, it with the rhythm of the oars. Here we is not swimming away. go: The owner of the kada , or shop, Thi thi thara offers to fry the lobster for us. thi thi thaeiy We settle nearby and stuff our hooks thi thaeiy with mashed tapioca — that’s a big hit thaga thai thai tho with fish, we are told. The three of us drop our lines and wait and wait and wait. No sign of a tug. Instead, the the Canoe (Vallam) Ride clever fish are nudging the tapioca out We (hubby, our son and I) set off of the hook and having a feast. early from Kodianthara Heritage As I watch my umpteenth bait Home, walking along the canal being hogged down there with toward the wharf in one of the larger much relish, the lobster arrives on a waterways leading into the plate. My companions refuse my Vembanad lake. The canal is, in turn, half-hearted offer to share it. How connected to smaller waterways. thoughtful! “How can you eat so Much like in Venice. Only we are in soon after breakfast,” someone Kumarakom in Kerala’s Kottayam dis - remarks. I decide no time is a bad trict. time for lobsters. Give me lobster, We had asked for an oar-driven, tra - anytime, anywhere. And I’ll do justice ditional vallam (canoe) and had to it. refused all offers of a speedy motor - boat. We want a real experience, not a how to reach: Moving to hook-happy fish touristy one, we had said. KUMARAKOM is approximately a two- Since the fish here are very smart, Once in, we set sail with loud battle hour drive from Cochin International we decide to move to Pathira Manal cries as we charge toward imaginary Airport. Buses and taxis are easily available (Midnight Sands), an island in the battles with BIG GAME. “How big are at all times of the day from Kottayam and Vembanad, in search of foolish fish. Kochi. Kottayam serves as the closest rail - sharks,” asks my son, on his first trip to way station, located at a distance of about On the way, all of us lend a hand to sea (OK, a lake — but it is a very large 15 kms from Kumarakom. Cochin the oar to steer the boat faster. lake: 7 kms long and 5 kms across). International Airport at Nedumbassery is The new venue is a cool spot under “Very BIG,” I answer, with the convic - the closest airport at a distance of 85 kms. a huge nutmeg tree. Here, the fish are tion of a seasoned fisherwoman. Kumarakom is also accessible by boat from slightly bigger, about 6-7 inches long. Alaphuzza, which is another major tourist Another boatman assures us they are the Lobster destination in Kerala. dumb with a conviction that betrays We move into the deeper waters of What to see: foul play. So we begin the waiting the lake and then curve back to land at KUMARAKOM is the right mix of activity game again. These fish are better and relaxation. Visit the Vembanad Lake, “nudgers” than the ones we’ve left (Top) Travel into the heart of the scenic Vembanad behind. We keep refilling our hooks lake with a traditional canoe ride. (Below) Water Bird Sanctuary, Bay Island Driftwood Lip-smacking seafood varieties of lobsters and Museum and Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls. and feeding the fish till all of us get prawns satisfy the gastronomic senses. tired and want to go back.

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n Festival of nine nights

Devotees hold lit earthen oil lamps as they participate in a Maha Aarti, a religious ritual at Umiya Mataji temple in Surat, some 275 kms from Ahmedabad, , on October 22. Devotees thronged in their thousands on the occasion of ‘Atham’, the eighth night of Navratri or Festival of Nine Nights. (Photo: AFP) EMBASSY OF INDIA 2107 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20008 Tel: 202-939-7000; Fax: 202-462-7276 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.indianembassy.org www.facebook.com/Indembassyusa

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