Sri Rama Navami 2016 Celebrates Its Annual Nagar Kirtan

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AZ Sikh Aishwarya Rai Gurdwara Sahib Bachchan Celebrates its reveals how she prepares Annual Nagar IACRF Annual Easter Celebration for Cannes red Kirtan 8 Class Day 2016 10 17 carpet 33 Gurdwara Sahib Nishkaam Seva Sri Rama Navami 2016 Celebrates its Annual Nagar Kirtan

ri Rama Navami 2016 held on Thurs- Family for sponsoring, preparing and serv- Sday, April 14, 2016 was attended by ing Mahaprasad at the Community Center By Staff Correspondent Saajana Divas followed by Nagar more than 1500 at the Ekta Mandir on a for more than 1000 people. Very generous ike last several years, this year Kirtan on April 17, 2016. Led By weekday making the event a Grand Festi- of them to donate efforts and money. Lagain Nishkaam Seva Gurd- Punj Pyaree (The Beloved five) val for the community. Artist Kshitij Chitania singlehandedly wara Sahib celebrated Khalsa Guru Granth • More on P16 Sincere thanks to Manju Walia and created a special at- • More on P22

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www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz SIA • May 2016 ATODAY 3 When a Healer is in Need of Healing Dr. Jaswant Singh Sachdev n relation to personal health of his or her job or shows any laxity, he provider.” M.D., F. A.A. N. Ihealthcare providers, many people or she will be slapped with a lawsuit in It may not be out of place to refer Phoenix, Arizona back home have an impression that no time, frivolous or otherwise, which here briefly to this modern day term of those in the medical profession know again creates a higher cost of doing “healthcare provider.” This is a generic everything worth knowing about the business. label that includes many paramedical human body, both in health and in Being in the medical profession is non-M.Ds. Under its umbrella, nurse medical professionals, is to realize that disease. Consequently, it is assumed a double-edged sword especially when practitioners, physician assistants as sick healers need to be and should that healthcare providers will be having it comes to one’s own health. Most of well as several others with different be provided care like it is given to good health themselves as it is easier the time one is fully aware of the natural shades of training and expertise are all others. It should be irrespective of how for them to keep a tab. Members of the history of a disease. The consequences lumped together. Unless one is willing sick healers behave and what they Indian subcontinent diaspora, likewise, of leaving an illness unattended leading to seriously probe into what exactly disclose or don’t. Their questions must seem to have a general but erroneous to a reduced life span as well as an the qualifications of a substantial care- be answered like anyone else’s. They perception that a healer shouldn’t altered prognosis is all too well-known taker in question happen to be, it might must be listened to, whatever little they fall sick that easily. Furthermore, it is to the healer. Yet, paradoxically, a good well be difficult to find out much about may have to say. Ignoring their care believed by non-medical individuals number of health care professionals a given provider during a short and by simply presuming that they must that should a healthcare provider ever may decide to keep themselves superficial contact. know everything about their health and need medical care, assistance is easily intentionally blind to their health issues The physician-turned-patient illness is not appropriate. It could result available to them and that they receive because they view getting sick as a usually understands these intricacies not only in inadequate care but can better care than everyone else. personal and professional defeat. They and thus may feel inhibited in seeking also put a care-provider in hot water, as This may be so in India and perhaps may simply choose not to confront their treatment from an individual with limited happens here and there. in other Eastern countries, where illness and play ignorant in a hope credentials and experience than him Additionally the healers must realize healthcare providers enjoy positions of that the condition will go away one or her. Having said it all, one issue that when they fall sick, their illness is status and exude a unique aura. For day. They may rather keep their eyes needs further attention. Individuals not going to be different from anyone one, people in India are impressed by shut and ears closed to the impending in the medical profession, especially else’s and that they should expect to be status and personalities. Second, those danger much akin to a bird that closes the physicians or the healers, also treated like other patients irrespective in the medical profession are richer and its eyes on noticing a cat around. As happen to be human beings. They of their own medical qualifications and better known in the community. Both of a consequence and contrary to the possess human bodies, like anyone status, no less and no more. It is to their the above criteria make it easier to seek common belief, this group of health else. They are likely to suffer illnesses benefit that they offer full information to and receive the medical help they need professionals, though small in number, like others and have medical needs the individuals taking care of them for and demand. often tends to have a very limited insight like the rest of the people in the world. otherwise they could be damaging their But this may not necessarily be or no insight at all as to what is going on What is important however, for those own interests and thus cutting their own true over here in the Western world, within their bodies. who come across in taking care of sick feet. especially in this chosen land of plenty, On the other hand, when a for, when it comes to such care, all are healthcare professional is admitted to considered equal, the way it should a hospital for an ailment, the hospital have been. One may find a prince and staff that cares for the individual may a pauper sharing the same room in the take it for granted that the patient itself hospital, lying on the adjacent beds and being in the profession is fully aware of being treated the same way. Most of the the illness and its consequences. And time the treatment one receives in the as such, he or she may not see a need hospital is in accordance with the illness to emphasize important practical points one suffers from and not the status related to the illness. When it comes to one has, thank God! Yet members of being a patient, healthcare providers the medical profession in the West are may feel somewhat inhibited in opening no paupers either. Compared to their up fully and in providing the details counterparts back home, their living needed to receive relevant therapies. standards are equal or better. While They may also live up to their reputation doctors are respected in the West, for not following instructions. It is one the overall attitude of the community thing to be evaluated by a provider but around them is certainly different and it is an entirely different matter to follow nowhere close to what it was in India or directions especially if one happens to other Eastern countries when it comes have a built-in pseudo-belief that he or to truly paying unconditional respect. she knows better than what is being And there is a reason for this difference. told. This attitude may compromise an Over period of time, the practice accurate assessment and treatment. of medicine in Western countries has Additionally, with the medical gradually turned into a business like any profession becoming more and more other one. It is entirely dependent upon specialized, not every sick and elderly dollars and cents perhaps somewhat patient-physician would be in tune with more than what it was back-home. To the latest progress and appropriate some extent, it has to be, for it relies care. Yet the attending medical staff mostly on advancement in technology may believe otherwise and wrongly and scientific research, both of which, think that the “doctor knows everything.” no doubt are expensive. And to add to However, this may be true in some the problem, the malpractice attorneys, cases where the physician-turned- the so-called ambulance chasers, keep patient may indeed happen to be far the health professionals on their toes. more experienced or trained than a so- God forbid, if a medical provider fails in called modern day young “healthcare www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA From the Desk of Asia Today ATODAY 4 • May 2016 Gender Bias…A Global Epidemic this was the first time I felt the feelings Uniting all South Asians in the Valley of alienation, isolation, and discomfort in

Monthly Newspaper I recently saw a video that was going speaking up that other women describe • Vol-IX • Issue-5 • May 2016 •[email protected] viral on Facebook about an elderly Indian in male dominated environments. All the Asia Today Team father who is apologizing to his daughter cliché quotes I had heard before made that he set a bad example as he watches sense and resonated. Marketing Director: Manju her juggle work, her family, her children, It made me reflect how harsh I have (Manjeet K Walia) Editor’s and his needs while his son-in-law sits on NOTE been on my own culture and roots thinking Editor: Deepa Walia (MS CIS) the couch watching TV not realizing that they hold us back, do not treat us or raise (Sandeep Kaur) she has been working just as hard as him us as equals thus inhibiting our ability to be and is probably also tired as she walks through the door successful in a country which from my naïve perception Publisher & Designer: and starts cleaning up, cooking, and other household affords everyone equal opportunity. In reality, what is Raja (BA) (Gagandeep Singh Walia) activities while still on th3e phone with her work trying becoming evident to me is that this gender bias exists to get things going. In the video, this father who is now regardless of culture, region, or location. It is just easier Patron: Mini from California observing her juggle everything apologizes for setting for us as humans to blame our circumstances and (Damanjot Kaur Walia) that up as the example with what he did around the be harsher on what we know well and make excuses house and re-enforcing those beliefs as she played thinking if I hadn’t been born into this, I could have been Jyoti from New Jersey (Navjot Kaur Singh) house where she did all this stuff in make-believe while farther ahead as a woman or I would not have had this some boy much like her husband today played make- bias as a man. It is everywhere and we can either Surinder Singh Pall believe as well and watched TV or read the newspaper. choose to make excuses and let it continue or to handle (Reporter from New Jersey) He leaves her a note apologizing and promising to it better in our personal and professional environments. contribute more with his wife when he returns home. In our personal lives, as men we can share equally in Press Photographer Sameer Soorma The video and messaging, based around a South decisions, show mutual respect, take responsibility in www.sameersoorma.com Asian family, invoked the same initial belief in me that raising our children and household activities, and much it probably did in thousands of others – there’s our more or as women we can stand up against it as it is Amit Mitter old fashioned Indian culture that does not believe in happening. In our professional environments, as men (Reporter from Punjab, India) equality and continues to be biased towards women. we can be more aware of the women who we may

Disclaimer Shortly after, I experienced a few things in a professional be alienating with our behavior, comments, or male Asia Today, LLC is not responsible environment not surrounded by fellow South Asians comradery and create a more inclusive culture and as for any claims made by advertisers that made me wonder – are we harsher on our own women wespeak up when we feel that is happening. nor does it endorse any product or culture when that bias exists regardless of culture or And, last but not least, we can stop being harsher on services advertised in the paper. geographic location. I don’t know if it happened to me our culture being the cause of this – the truth is it is For concerns or questions related to these advertisements, please for the first time in the US or if it is the first time I was everywhere and there is no excuse for it. contact the business directly. aware enough to know what gender bias is to feel it. An -Deepa Kaur Walia individual who is always comfortable speaking her mind, Editor, Asia Today, [email protected] Asia Today, LLC also does not endorse any views presented by aisakhi Mela, Ram Navmi was indeeed a volunteer writers. Those views are solely of the author and bear no Bgrand celebrations in April and Mothers indication to the views of Asia Today. Day is coming up here’s wishing all mothers Please contact us at good health and long life ! Jab Jab Kagaz par likha maine Maa ka Asia Today, LLC PO Box 749 naam , Ki kalam Adab se keh uthi , ho gaye Chandler, AZ 85244 chaaron dhaam,... 480/ 250-2519 -Manju Walia For sale inquiries: (Marketing Director) [email protected] Asia Today: sales@ For additional asiatodayaz.com inquires/comments: Marketing Director [email protected] NOTE www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz SIA • May 2016 ATODAY 5

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www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA ATODAY 6 • May 2016 A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE WITH ONENESS & THE PHENOMENON & THE GIFT By Olga A. Llerena around, I was very calm and I Oneness Blessing. time, the Oneness University ago and I am experiencing began my spiritual journey wasn’t reacting to her. It felt so I have continued to visit is offering this profoundly more peace, love, joy and Iand learning about meditation natural, but I suddenly transformational harmony in my daily life. The around the year 2000. At the realized: “wow, this process here in energy of this course felt just beginning it seemed that I was is different, I’m never the USA, thanks to like what I have experienced not “fit” for this spiritual form of this calm” and I could technology. The at the Oneness University in prayer. But I didn’t quit. In 2007, tell by looking into Senior Guides, will India. a trusted friend, shared with me my daughter’s eyes, teach via a Live There is no doubt that the “Oneness Blessing” that that she was as Feed to 7 cities in the thanks to this two-day course, was extraordinary. I decided to surprised that I wasn’t USA. Phoenix being my experience of the Divine give it a try and found people reacting. The problem one of them. This is more present in my heart. in my community that offered dissolved right away, course is offered to I find myself experiencing this form of Divine energy. A but the most important help humanity find a causeless joy spontaneously couple of weeks after my first thing is that ever since permanent source of since being initiated to receive Oneness Blessing, I noticed that moment, my connectedness while and transfer this new powerful my first of many miracles: I daughter and I have opening our hearts to form of Deeksha: The Golden used to have a very difficult a very beautiful and unconditional love and Orb Blessing, we are seeing relationship with one of my loving relationship. Of thanks to that personal profound miracles in our beautiful daughters. Every course, sometimes connection, to receive ourselves, our friends and discussion turned into a battle. we get upset, but it more miracles in our family thanks to it. Please I tried for 13 years to learn doesn’t last. It doesn’t create a the Oneness University lives. This offering is Non- don’t miss this unique and rare psychological tools to help me charge anymore. And this shift almost yearly since then, and Denominational. It’s deeply opportunity that is happening in relate better with my daughter. for the better happened almost I could fill your newspaper respectful of our beliefs. It Phoenix for one time only. This It didn’t matter, as soon as 10 years ago! I decided to go to with the countless miracles I doesn’t matter what religion we coming May 20-22, 2016 at the a problem arose, I would be India to the Oneness University and my family have received practice, this offering helps us Sheraton Grand Phoenix. You caught up in the drama. Two right after that miracle, in every aspect of our lives: connect to the Divine, the All can register at: https://tickets. weeks after receiving my first because I couldn’t believe that relationships, health, wealth, That Is, God, in the way that brightstarevents.com/event/ Oneness Blessing, a problem something that I tried so hard to connectedness, fulfillment, we know It. phenomenon-gift-arizona or arose and my daughter was heal for so many years, healed growth in consciousness… I went to Washington DC to contact Olga Llerena at olga. very upset. But this time so spontaneously thanks to the Now, for the very first this two-day course two months [email protected].

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2814 W. Bell Rd, Ste 1455 Phoenix AZ 85053 Call us @ (602) 993 0085 www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA Local Coverage ATODAY 8 • May 2016 AZ Sikh Gurdwara Sahib Celebrates its Annual Nagar Kirtan

www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz Local Coverage SIA • May 2016 ATODAY 9 Chateau Luxe Celebrates One Year Anniversary in Grandeur April 27, 2016 Article By Deepa Walia, Photography by Robert Westerman Photography t seems like only yesterday when Cha- Iteau Luxe, the prime upscale venue for cocktail parties, weddings, receptions, dinners, and large-scale corporate events, opened its doors and changed the venue scene in Arizona. With its spacious rooms, gorgeous views, upscale décor including the magnificent chandelier at its entrance, it quickly became the first choice for people looking for a prime and unique venue for their special occasions. What seems like yesterday was a year ago and since its grand opening, the venue has hosted beautiful weddings and corporate events of un- matched sophistication and style.Cha- teau Luxe celebrated its One Year anniversary in a style that is equivalent of the grandeur, uniqueness, and beauty it is known for. As Oprah Winfrey once said, “Create the highest, grandest vision possible for your life, because you become what you believe.” And Cha- teau Luxe is a breathing monument that is the outcome of the grand vision and believe that Deepika Bhalla, Owner and President, had and has changed the event scene in Arizona forever. Deep- ika and her team looked stunning as they celebrated their much deserved success in such a short amount of time. Asia Today thanks Chateau Luxe and the team for letting us be a part of their special moment and wishes them continued success in the coming years. If you have not checked out the venue, take a few minutes to go visit this gem in the desert. For more information, please visit www.chateauluxeaz.com. About the Photographer After a career in the ambulance business, Robert Westerman dove headlong after his creative interests, giving up the penniless obscurity of medicine for the penniless obscurity of the arts. Fast forward fifteen years, and Robert has amassed a diverse portfolio encompassing travel, editorial, portrai- ture, architecture, and landscape. But the centerpiece of Robert Westerman’s art and commerce is The Wedding: the unique opportunity to create striking images of people so happy, they allow the camera to glimpse their true selves. To see a thousand or so of Robert’s favorite wedding images, please take some time, and a box of tissues, and browse www.RobertWesterman.com. You can contact the photographer at [email protected]. www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA Local Coverage ATODAY 10 • May 2016 IACRF Annual Class Day 2016 ACRF Annual Class Day was held Ion Saturday, April 9, 2016 at the IACRF Community Center to appre- ciate all teachers and recognize all students and their families of Arts, Dance, Music & Yoga Classes held weekly at the Ekta Mandir. Program was followed by a Very Special Dance Program “NIRMITI” by students of dance class. Nirmiti is a dance ballet based on Guru- kul parampara which showed how Bharatanatyam originated. We thank dance teacher Prera- na Kulkarni, Arts Teacher Samar Ma- jumdar, Yoga Teacher Shampa Sud- hakar and Music Teacher Sudhakar Gopal for teaching and imparting In- dian Culture to the next generation. Thanks to Rohini Sharma, Muru- gan Patham, Mina Patel, Sangeetha Sethia, Rita Patel, Mahendrabhai, Gabriel and others are coordinating the program with Teachers. Thanks to Volunteers, attendees, sponsors, IACRF staff, board of trustees and directors for making the program successful. Press release from Indo-Ameri- can Foundation of Arizona

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Dr. Jaswant Singh Sachdev, M.D., F.A.A.N Phoenix, Arizona

ikh Awareness travels to High SSchools With efforts of Mrs. Bhagwant Kaur Rangi, the writer was able to present two consecutive power point presentations in two different high schools, one at Desert High in Goodyear and other at Sweet Water and 59th Ave in Glen- dale in later part of March. High school students at both places spent one hour in class where plentiful information about Sikh faith including Sikh history, Sikh presence in US, Sikh Unique identity and Hate crime against Sikhs was provided by writer through a power point presentation. They asked several questions about Sikhs and Sikh faiths. We hope such kinds of efforts engag- ing teenagers in dialogue, is worth all the efforts.

Event No 3 and 4 Sikh Awareness Travels to Local Community Colleges On invitation from the World Re- ligion Class from Glendale and Mesa Community college, the writer was provided an opportunity to talk about Sikh faith as part of interfaith dialogue. Speakers from Buddhism, Islam, Hin- duism, Native American faith along with the writer from Sikh faith were invited to offer 20 minutes presentation each. The Writer again showcased a power point presentation followed by questions and answers on Sikh faith. Such opportunities do offer college going children an avenue to be aware about our unique Sikh identity helping ease the curiosity of others about our faith.

Event No 5. City of Mesa invites the Writer to Offer Invocation Prayer for their City Council Session The writer was approached by the Mayor of the city of Mesa, Honorable a table before the beginning of the Ban- Singh was visited by many participants treading to the path of apostasy. But John Giles to offer invocation through quet for the awardees of Golden Rule of the event where the gathering was when one of young Sikh teenagers with Sikh Ardaas for their session on March by the AIFM. This is a yearly event in almost close to a thousand. Some rel- uncut hair and flowing beard stands up 14, Mesa City. All the council mem- which Sikhs also participate being ac- evant literature was also passed along to face an audience of 200 Rotarians, bers and about 50-100 Mesa commu- tive members of this august organiza- with appropriate appreciations. One mostly professionals and highly suc- nity members were in attendance. The tion. This organization is committed in non-Sikh at a time being offered rudi- cessful businessmen and leaves them writer was able to offer a Sikh prayer disseminating awareness about all the mentary knowledge about Sikh faith mesmerized and speechless with his commensurate with the occasion. The faiths propagating a philosophy of re- can help cut down on hate crimes awe-inspiring speech, it certainly feels Mayor personally thanked the writer for spect, understanding and support for against Sikhs, so believes the writer. like a cool breeze in hot summer. On this endeavor and involvement of Sikh each and every faith. top of it when each and every one in community in Civic Affairs. At the venue prior to the begin- Event No 7 the audience stands up to facilitate ning of the program different faiths are Sikh Boy Wins 1st Position and such a young Sikh man with endless Event No 6 allowed to set up their Faith table to $5,000 in 2016 Annual Phoenix Ro- applause, it certainly brings tears of Sikh Faith Table at Golden Rule disseminate information about their re- tary High School Speech Contest joy. Banquet by AIFM spective faiths. The Sikh table manned Every Sikh, all over the Western Since 1914, Phoenix Rotary 100, The writer was privileged to set up by the writer and his grandson Hargun world, is concerned about its youth one of the oldest and highly prestigious www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz Local Coverage SIA • May 2016 ATODAY 15 Rotary Club has served the and will represent AZ in community over 100 plus Original Oratory competi- years and has been orga- tion at Salt Lake City in June nizing speech contest for 2016. Maanik got involved last 86 consecutive years. in speech and debate at an The writer has been blessed early age and since age 6, to be one of the members of he has been a regular par- this organization for several ticipant in yearly Hemkunt years. Speech competition held This year about 60 stu- by Sikh Gurdwaras to teach dents from several schools children about Sikh history, from Tucson, Flagstaff and Sikh culture, and Sikh Phi- Phoenix area participated. losophy. Maanik attended They were judged by busi- Khalsa Montessori during ness and professional lead- his Elementary education ers in two sessions’ one which helped nurture his preliminary on April 4th and speech talent. He owes the other final at the formal it to Brophy College Pre- weekly lunch meeting on paratory for providing him Friday, April the 8th at Phoe- avenues to hone his public nix Country club. The top speaking skills and grow as five students from the se- a person. His hobbies are nior group, including Maanik Spinning Poi, Social activ- Singh Chotalla a senior at ism and Public speaking. Brophy College Preparatory, Details of the were asked to present their speech are as per the speech in this club meeting. video link https://youtu. For this final contest - Partic- be/0pFvc2rvIGo ipants were given 4 prompts Event No 8 to choose from and were Sikh Awareness ar- allowed 30 min to prepare rives at Dobson High: On for a 5 minutes speech on April 18 2016, Rana Sodhi one of the prompts. Maanik was able to present a talk Singh Chotalla, son of Har- about Sikh faith and hate jot Kaur and Rajinder Singh crime against Sikhs to a Chotalla, spoke on the group of about 800 stu- prompt “What would ancient dents in Dobson High. It philosophers say about the was followed by question world today.” He achieved and answer session that the first position and was Rana was able to handle awarded $5,000 towards his very skillfully. A huge ap- tuition fee for any college of plause was given at the his choice. end and students showed In the past, Maanik been the winner of State Original Ora- 2015. He also qualified for 2016 Na- a great interest in learning Singh Chotalla, a veteran debater has tory tournament for all high schools in tional Speech & Debate Tournament about Sikh faith “Quality K-12 Education, More $$$’s: Your Vote Matters, May 17” By Barry Wong, former Ariz. Leg- teachers’ salaries far below the State Land Trust (SLT). increase by $1Billion over the next 10 islator and Corporation Commissioner; the national average and Prop 123 would significantly years, and will continue to grow for the Bangladesh Community Leaders – Ra- per-student funding ranking increase the distribution benefit of education. phael & Farhana Ahmed; Indian Com- at the bottom – Arizona’s amount from the SLT to WHEN WILL SCHOOLS SEE THE munity Leader – VenkatKommineni kids are the ones hurt the education. Some history MONEY?: Upon passage of Prop 123, ducation is the great equalizer, most. Also, a lawsuit was – when Arizona became a Arizona’s schools will start receiving Eregardless of one’s background, filed against the state to state in 1912, the federal more money starting in June for the family history or circumstances. Student force more school funding. government donated mil- coming school year. success is dependent on a high quality Proposition 123 fixes this lions of acres of federal land Without Prop 123, there will not be education from kindergarten through problem. to the state to be held in significant added funding for our schools 12th grade (K-12); this periodof formal SUPPORTERS OF trust for the benefit of public in the immediate future, and negotia- education will influence the student for PROP123: A broad coalition education and other institutions to end the funding lawsuit ceases his and her adult lifetime. is supporting the Proposition tions. The state created thus continuing the litigation. Prop 123 THE PROBLEM: Adequately fund- including teachers, community and busi- the SLT to hold funds received from is a great first step bringing immediate, ing our K-12 school system is a critical ness leaders, education organizations; the sale or lease of these trust lands, sustained and constitutionally protected part of this high quality educational Governor Ducey, mayors across the with investment earnings distributed to funding to our public schools while pro- goal. Until now, Arizona’s policymak- state, Republicans and Democrats. schools and other institutions; the SLT tecting the SLT for future generations ers have not addressed how to face HOW DOES THE PROPOSITION fund balance is approximately $5Billion of students. ACTION: Please support teacher shortages and low per-pupil WORK?: Our K-12 public schools today. Prop 123 seek to distribute some Arizona’s (our) students and teachers by funding. Over the past decade, Arizona currently receive funds from the state of those funds to schools to address voting “YES” on Prop 123 in the May 17 has continued to slip; with average general fund and distributions from critical needs. The SLT is projected to special election. www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA Continued from page 1 ATODAY 16 • May 2016 Gurdwara Sahib Nishkaam Seva Celebrates its Annual Nagar Kirtan Sahib, the Eternal Guru of the Sikhs was taken out on a decorated vehicle under a specially prepared splen- did canopy with Sangat and children following the Guru. Gatka players and Punjabi School children had a special program earlier and they also accompanied the Gurus. Entire Sangat especially the Sikh women con- tinuously graced the occasion with Shabad Gurbaani with Raagi Jetha taking the lead. The celebration and Nagar Kirtan was greatly enjoyed by the Sangat. The story is best told by the snaps of event published along with.

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he International Christian Fellowship of TPhoenix was set up in the year 2012 as a Christian organization to reach out to the Easter Celebration community’s prayer needs. We strive to find opportunities to reach out to the community’s needs. For example during Christmas time we visited many families and prayed for whatever they wanted prayer for. Also during the time the Indian Association conducted the Discover India program we were part of the event taking prayer requests from the people that stopped by our booth. During the last Resurrection Sunday the fellowship worked with Light And Life Church located at 39th Ave. and Greenway Rd. to set up the place for people to come stop by and understand the real meaning of Easter. The families along with the kids worked on a project to display the boards with information of the real meaning of why people celebrate the Resurrection Sunday and how the redemp- tive work of a Jewish carpenter, Jesus Christ, on the wooden cross, 2000 years ago, can be a blessing to all peoples of the world.

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www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz Health & Fitness SIA • May 2016 ATODAY 19 Want to keep a tab on unlimited boozing? Train your brain to comply

ave you often wished to have a Hswitch that could just stop you from binge drinking? Well, you just might, as researchers have identified a circuit between two regions of our brain that can control alcohol binge drinking. The two brain areas, the extend- ed amygdala and the ventral tegmental area, have been implicated in alcohol binge drinking in the past. However, this is the first time that the two areas have been identified as a functional circuit, connected by long projection neu- rons that produce a substance called corticotropin releasing factor, or CRF for short. The study, conducted by a team from the University of North Car- olina, provides the first direct evidence in mice that inhibiting a circuit between two brain regions protects against binge alcohol drinking. “The puzzle is starting to come together, and is telling us more than we ever knew about before,” said re- searcher Todd Thiele, adding “We now know that two brain regions that nipulating the CRF system is an ave- gets for treating alcohol use disorders,” holics. We know that people who binge modulate stress and reward are part of nue for treating it.” Thiele said. “If you can stop somebody drink, especially in their teenage years, a functional circuit that controls binge “It’s very important that we con- from binge drinking, you might prevent are much more likely to become alco- drinking and adds to the idea that ma- tinue to try to identify alternative tar- them from ultimately becoming alco- holic-dependent later in life.”

The review summarised the results of randomised trials and found Yoga can evidence that practicing yoga might be able to improve asthma quality of life help asthma and symptoms to some extent. Howev- er, researchers also warned that more patients breathe detailed studies with more participants would be needed to draw any firm con- better, says new clusions about the effects of yoga. Lead author Dr Zuyao Yang from study the Chinese University of Hong Kong commented that the findings suggest or patients of asthma, there’s that yoga exercise may lead to small some good news. A new study has F improvements in asthma quality of life shown that practicing yoga helps pro- and symptoms. vide some relief to patients and can be However, Yang added that it is beneficial to an extent. However, the unclear whether yoga has a consis- finding was not clear as to the extent tent impact on lung function and one to which yoga helps in lung function. It doesn’t yet know if yoga can reduce further added that more studies were people’s medication usage, or if there needed to ascertain if yoga could pro- are any side-effects of yoga for people vide an alternative to the use of medi- with asthma. cation for relief. Rebecca Normansell , deputy co- The Cochrane Review, an interna- ordinating editor of the Cochrane Air- tional healthcare not-for-profit organ- ways Group added, “The findings of isation, suggested that yoga may have this Cochrane Review will help people a beneficial effect on the quality of life make more informed choices about in people with asthma, but its effects their future treatment options.” on lung function and medication use The review is published in the Co- are uncertain. chrane Library on April 27. www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA ATODAY 20 • May 2016

Physical Location: 2804 & 2809 Become a Gold Life Member W. Maryland Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85017. Indo-American Foundation of Arizona for $2000. Please make your check payable to Directions: Take I-17, Exit Bethany (Registered Non-Proﬁt Organization under Section 501 (C) (3)) Indo-American Foundation of Arizona and mail Home West, Right on 27th Ave, Lt on Hindu-Jain Temple Ekta Mandir with Community Center, Mailing Address: PO Box 35275, Phoenix, AZ 85069 your check to IACRF Maryland Ave. P.O. Box 35275, Phoenix, AZ 85069

2015-2016 2016-2017 Term IACRF Accomplishments including Financial status Haasya Hungama 2016 Message from the President: A Comedy Night I deem it a great honor to be serving as president of the Indo-American Cultural and Religious Dear Community Members: Friday, May 6, 2016 at 7p.m. Foundation for a second term. During my first term in 2006, I had the privilege of being a part of We are pleased to present IACRF Accomplishments for 2015- 2016 here for your perusal. At IACRF Community Center 2809, W Maryland Ave, the development of the Ekta Mandir. As a diverse community I know many of us do not share the Financial Accomplishments: same backgrounds, professions, or religious beliefs, but I know that we are all proud to hail from Phoenix, AZ 85017 the rich Indian heritage of our ancestors. As president, I hope to continue what has been a great 1. IACRF raised a total Income of $435,648.00 through BEMA operations in 2015. We had total expenses history of bringing of our community together despite our many differences. including Occupancy, Operations, Special Events and Payroll of about $286,504.00. We raised net funds totaling $149,144.00 in 2015 from Ekta Mandir operations, with great support from community. I would like to outline what I believe will help me achieve this goal. However, I cannot accomplish 2. In addition we raised net funds of $40,444 after expenses through the Community Center events and Sponsorship info: A Comedy Night in Hindi by distinguished Hindi this on my own. It is all of you that make this community what it is and only you can help me GOLF tournament in 2015. FREE ADMISSION Grand Sponsor $1000, VIP Sponsor $100, Humorist and Satirist. bring us even closer. It would be a great privilege to work with all of you and for this reason I ask 3. Total funds raised from Temple, Golf and Non Temple activities added to $189,588.00. We are proud Friends of IACRF Sponsor $50. you all to please volunteer. My predecessor had a desire to bring together our children to of every one who chaired the events and supported the team in making IACRF programs successful Program: 6:30pm - Meet and Greet with Artists. participate in our cultural events. As we prepare to pass the baton to our emerging youth we are Photo Opportunity. for the community. Indian snacks will be available Thanks to our Grand Sponsor Manisha & in desperate need of their help. Last year they made great strides to make this possible including 4. From the total funds raised, we paid towards mortgage an amount of $36,562.00 and also returned for purchase at a nominal charge. Subhash Thathi 7:00pm - Non-Stop laughter begins. having our children run an event completely on their own (Charity Walk). Which I am happy to personal loan of $10,500.00. We also paid about $44,500 towards interest on bank & personal loans. report was a great success, but we could be doing more. This year I hope to create a youth In total we paid about $91,561.00 to service the loan. committee and fully immerse them in the foundation, something I hope you all will encourage 5. After servicing the loan we had total Net Funds Raised in our hands for 2015 of $98,027.00. An Brief info about artists: your kids to join. Please contact the foundation and let us know if your children are interested. excellent job by the 2015-2016 IACRF Board of Directors and Trustees and the Community! Aashkaran Atal of Mumbai is a distinguished and gifted Contact information: Beyond expanding our current volunteer programs, I’d also like to revamp our current 6. Since we want to reduce the loan as much as possible we also paid additional $96,000.00 to humorist, known for his unique style of humor and satire. His Event Chair: Sangeetha Sethia: 480-390-4316, Sudhir Kalra: 623-414-8248 infrastructure. Our foundation hall is in need of remodeling and modernization. My goal is to the Bank to further reduce the loan and increase the equity. humorous poems contain a deep and enchanting satire on create a state of the art community center so we all have a place to gather and celebrate our 7. With all of the above great work we reduced the Mortgage loan by $132,568 and Personal Loan by day to day problems of life. Murugan Patham: 480-510-3826, Subhash Thathi: 480-797-0625, cultural heritage. For this we will need the community to pitch in and donate generously so that $10500 during 2015. Current Loan as of December 2015 with WF is $851,973 and Personal Loan is $106,738 leaving IACRF with a Total Loan $958,711.00 versus the Total Assets of about Seven Million Mina Patel: 928-925-5062 & Manish Gupta: 602-688-7011 we can proceed with our plan. I want to emphasize that the community center and temple are Suryakumar Pandey of Lucknow, is a leading satirist of not owned by a few members, but rather the whole community. I promise to lead the US Dollars. (Audited reports will be available soon) eminence in India and when he takes the podium the organization with transparency and open communication. Your feedback is important to me and EMAIL: [email protected] will help me improve the foundation as best I can. Couple of major accomplishments we want to highlight from 2015-2016 are: auditorium is filled with continuous laughter. 1. Strategic Plan Completed with inputs from BOD and BOT. We now have a master plan for the Physical Location: IACRF Community Center, 2809 W Maryland Avenune, Phoenix, AZ 85017 I would like to get our sister organizations together to bring our community together. I want to Community Center, Ekta Mandir and the North Side land! Ramesh Sharma of Chittorgarh whose rendition is so recognize more organization as sister organizations. Using the resources of the foundation it 2. All Major Programs including Bhagavat Katha, Balaji Kalyan, Janmashtami, Sravan Maas, Ganesh impressive that he leaves the audience spellbound and eager Directions: Take I-17, Exit Bethany Home West, Right on 27th Ave, Left on Maryland Ave. would be a pleasure to assist them in growing their communities and expanding their events. Chaturthi, Navratri/Dussehra, Diwali, Charity Walk, Kite Festival, India Festival, Maha Shivratri, Golf to listen to him even more. WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/IACRF WWW.AZINDIA.COM WWW.EKTAMANDIR.ORG These past years Ekta Mandir has hosted many great events and it will continue to do so. I have Tournament and Rama Navami were highly successful. Programs were enhanced & marketed to enjoyed seeing the large crowds at Diwali, Navratri, and other celebrations and I hope that we attract the community to the Foundation activities. will continue to see all of you there. In 2015, we hosted 104 events at Ekta Mandir and our 3. Special programs such as Visa Camp, Hasya Hungama, International Yoga Day, Music Concerts by calendar for 2016 is just as exciting. We continue to see growth in community participation which Ramesh Narayan Ji, Jaydeep Swadia and others, Tribute to President Abdul Kalam, India All are cordially invited for the Devotional Program is something that brings great joy to my heart. Independence Day, Clay Ganesh making by Kids, visit by All Saints’ Episcopal Day School students and Sunday, May 15, 2016 teachers were well attended and supported by the community. I am excited to be working with a very young and enthusiastic board of directors this year. I 4. Served more than 3000 meals to homeless at St Vincent de Paul shelter in Phoenix. Thanks to Mohan @ Ekta Mandir believe with their energy and the experience of some of our more seasoned directors we will Patel & Jalaram Bhajan group. create a foundation that is both efficient and innovative. We also have a very active board of 5. Raised $16000 for NPFY Charity thru 12th Annual Mahatma Gandhi Charity Walk. 170 attended. Grand Sri Srinivasa (Balaji) Kalyan trustees who will help us strive to be the very best that we can be. We are still looking for people 6. Raised and donated $15000 towards Nepal Earthquake relief. to join our board of directors and I encourage you to call me if you are interested. 7. Supported Tamil Sangam, AZINDIA & Community for Chennai Flood Relief Fundraising efforts I would like to invite you to visit our websites www.iacrfaz.org and www.ektamandir.org for more 8. Community Center provided FREE two days a year to 7 Sister Organizations as part of Community FREE ADMISSION! Story of Balaji Kalyan: This is the marriage of DAILY PROGRAM information on our upcoming events, volunteer opportunities and donations. Liaison program. Padmavati to Lord Venkateshwara. This wedding Let’s come together and make 2016 a great year for the foundation and the community it serves! 9. Yoga, Arts, Music and Dance Classes and Seniors Group Management Functioning well 7 am Sri Venkateshwara Suprabhatam has to be a wedding fit for the kings and the We thank Board of Directors, Board of Trustees, Life Members, IACRF Staff and the Community members 9 am Sudharshana Homa Sincerely, gods. Venkateshwara (Srinivasa) Kalyanam is Subhash Thathi for making 2015-2016 an outstanding and highly successful year. We extend warm Welcome to new 10:30 am Sri Srinivasa Kalyanam President Subhash Thathi and Board of Directors and Board of Trustees who will serve to make about Lord Rama fulfilling His promise to President, Indo-American Foundation of Arizona 12:30 pm Aarti followed by Mahaprasad (480) 788-9827, [email protected] 2016-2017 a great year! Vedavati (Spirit of Sita Devi) that He would marry Sincerely, Her in Kali Yuga as Srinivasa (Venkateshwara). Jagdish Sagar - Chairman, Mina Patel – President 2015-2016 Indo-American Foundation of Arizona The wedding was attended by all the gods who May the blessings of Lord Venkateshwara Congratulations to BOD and BOT for 2016-2017 Term! arrived on their respective vehicles in all their and Goddess Padmavathi be with us always. Thanks to BOD and BOT of 2015-2016 Term for a job well done! splendor. Padmavati Parinayam (Wedding) was Board Of Trustees Chairperson: Jagdish Sagar (480-235-5001) Board Of Trustees Chairperson: Jagdish Sagar the grandest affair on the planet. Please bring Flowers, Fruits & Prasad for offering. Vice-Chairperson: Madhusudan Bhakta Bajarang Agrawal Vice-Chairperson: Madhusudan Bhakta, Bajarang Agrawal PLEASE CONTACT: OFFICERS: PLEASE SPONSOR: OFFICERS: Priest Sudarshanji 602 320 3460, Priest Joshiji 602 391 7760, President: Subhash Thathi (480 797 0625) President: Minaxi Patel SRIVARI DIAMOND Sponsor: $1008, $2008 includes Kalyan Utsavam, Homa, Flowers, Vastra, Mahendra Devgania 602 708 0733, Vice President: Mukund Patel, Murugan Patham, Jai Seecharran Vice President: Kamlesh Patel, Manish Gupta, Murugan Patham Annadhan & will be honored! Mamta Vijay 480-948-3881, Urmila Kumar 480 961 9781, Treasurer: Sangeetha Sethia, Satya Mittal, Ravindra Ametha Treasurer: Suru Patel, Prasad Ravi, Krishna Naidu SRIVARI GOLD Sponsor: $501 includes Kalyan Utsavam, Homa, Flowers & Annadhan Venkatesh Gurumurthy 623 376 6019, Secretary: Sudhir Kalra, Sangeetha Sethia Vasu Atluri 480 227 8411, Nate Bhadriraju 623 694 3640, Secretary: Sudhir Kalra (623 414 8248), Deepa Walia SRIVARI SILVER Sponsor: $251 includes Kalyan Utsavam, Homa & Flowers PR Secretary: Punit Garg, Lokesh Joshi, Nitin Jain PR Secretary: Seema Shah, Srinivas Gottipati Minaxi Patel 928 925 5062, Subhash Thathi 480-797-0625 & $108, Sudharshana homa $51 Past President: Minaxi Patel Past President: Nate Bhadriraju Kalyan Utsavam: Jagdish Sagar 480 235 5001 Legal Counsel: Monika Sud-Devaraj OTHER DIRECTORS: Physical Location: 2804 & 2809 W. Maryland Ave. Phoenix AZ 85017 Directions: Take I-17, Exit Bethany Home West, Right on 27th Ave, Left on Maryland Ave. OTHER DIRECTORS: Pankaj Bakhda, Deepika Bhalla, Raj Bhalla, Amrish Bhargava, Joe Dodani, Venkatesh Gurumurthy, Dayaram Ahir, Pankaj Bakhda, Raj Bhalla, K L Chhibber, Prakash Deshmukh, Sudhindra Gadagkar, KN Jagannath, Nitin Jain, Lokesh Joshi, Charan Khurana, Jagan Lingamneni, Jahnvi Mehta, Kinal Movalia, WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/IACRF WWW.AZINDIA.COM WWW.EKTAMANDIR.ORG Neha Gupta, Venkatesh Gurumurthy, Manherlal Khatri, Jagan Lingamneni, Jahnvi Mehta, Kinal Movalia,Ramesh Narasimhan, Harish Parbhakar, Bipin Patel, Mahesh Patel, Rita Ashok Patel, Mukund Patel, Ramesh Narasimhan, Rita Ashok Patel, Sita Raman & Seema Shah Kalyan Raman, Paneer Selvam, Gautam Shah & Rohini Sharma www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz SIA • May 2016 ATODAY 21

www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA Continued from page 1 ATODAY 22 • May 2016 traction “Ram Janam Din- Ayodhya” display in the Ekta Mandir Portico. Sri Rama Navami 2016 Many thanks to Kshitij bhai for his cre- ativity in bringing to life a scene from Ram Janam in Ayodhya. Thanks to Joshiji for coordinating the “Ayodhya Vasi Ram Janm Mahot- sav Yatra” at the Ekta Mandir. Thanks to everyone for becoming an Ayodhya Vasi and joining the yatra. Thanks to Monika Nath for melodious songs. Sin- cere thanks to “Jalaram Bhajan Man- dal” members for rendering Ram bhajans on the auspicious day of Rama Navami and for participating in the Yatra with Bharat bhai Bhakta playing dole for the Ram Janam celebration. Thanks to many children for joining the Yatra in Ramayana characters fancy dress. Thanks to parents for their support and participation with their children. Thanks to Manju & Tarlochan Wa- lia, Suman & Dayaram Ahir, Gita & Jag- dish Sagar, Anju & Suru Patel, Rajesh B Patel, Akash Makkar and many others for sponsoring Rama Navami 2016. Special thanks to Joshiji, Sudar- shan ji and others for managing all the religious aspects of the event. Thanks to IACRF Staff, Mahendrabhai and Gabriel for their outstanding support. Thanks to all volunteers including many outgoing and incoming Board of Directors, Seniors group, Publicity team, Treasury, Decorations by Deepa and Team, Jalaram Mandal group and many others. Sincere thanks to all attendees! We also recognized the following including Amrish Bhargava, Bajarang Agrawal, Bipin Patel, Charan Khurana, Deepika Bhalla, Gautam Shah, Harish Parbhakar, Jagan Lingamneni,Jahnvi Mehta, Joe Dodani, Kalyan Raman, Kamlesh Patel, Kinal Movalia, KN Jagannath, Krishna Naidu, Lokesh Joshi, Madhusudan Bhakta, Mahesh & Damu Patel, Manish Gupta, Mukund Patel, Murugan Patham, Nate Bhadri- raju, Nitin Jain, Paneer Selvam, Pan- kaj Bakhda, Prasad Ravi, Raj Bhalla, Ramesh Narasimhan, Rita Ashok Patel, Rohini Sharma, Sangeetha Sethia, Seema Shah, Srinivas Got- tipati, Sudhir Kalra, Suru Patel, Ven- katesh Gurumurthy, Bhagubhai Patel, Bhakti Gosalia, Champaben Patel, Dayaram Ahir, Dhirendrabhai Patel, Gita Sagar, Jai Seecharran, Jayant Dholakia, Jitubhai Khandhar, Kishore Narayan, Kshitij Chitania, Kulbhushan Chhibber, Lalitbhai and Shantiben, Mahesh Shah, Mamta Vijay, Manju Walia, Manjuben Khatri, Mohan Pa- and others for their contribution to Deepa Walia, Lokesh Joshi, tel, Rajesh Patel, Roopa Pandarinath, to IACRF during 2015-2016 to Rajesh K, Mahendrabhai and Satish Kosuri, Subhash Thathi, Vidya help the Foundation success- others for capturing pictures of Raman, Teachers: Samar Majumdar, fully serve the community. We the event. Once again thank Prerana Kulkarni, Shampa Sudhakar, also sincerely thank hundreds of you all for making Sri Rama Sudhakar Gopal, Staff: Mahendrab- selfless volunteers who help and Navami on Thursday, April 14, hai, Joshi ji, Sudharshan ji, Gabriel support the Foundation. Thanks 2016, a grand event. www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz Travel SIA • May 2016 ATODAY 23 Six ways to explore Thailand before it gets swarmed by mass tourism

lthough it is one of the hottest travel destinations Ain Asia, Thailand is all set to gain even more visitors in the coming years. By 2020, the number of tourists is expected to rise to 47.5 million, as compared with 29.9 million in 2015. We bring to you some of the best ways to experience the country and its culture before mass tourism takes hold. Get up close to elephants in the Chiang Mai jungle

arrange to eat later in the day) to avoid becoming a and pay respect to the goddess of water. It’s held Spend the day with elephants and former ma- target for the cheeky simians. In any case, meeting each year on the eve of the full moon in the 12th houts in the Chiang Mai jungle. (Istock) the monkeys is sure to be memorable, with hilarious month of the Thai lunar calendar. People traditionally holiday snaps guaranteed. make little boats from banana leaves which float out There are plenty of better ways to get up close to onto the water holding candles. Lanterns are also re- elephants than the typically touristy elephant rides, Step back in time in Sukhothai, then hop on leased into the sky. This is a popular, family-focused which don’t offer much in the way of authentic ex- a bike event where visitors can join in with the rituals and perience and can raise animal welfare issues. While Sukhothai was the capital of the first kingdom of festivities without raising eyebrows among local Thai some travelers opt for elephant retreats at the sanc- Siam, which went on to become Thailand. Located people. Loy Krathong is celebrated across Thailand, tuary in Kanchanaburi, northern Thailand is also a 4.5 hours’ drive from Chiang Mai, the town is home with traditional events often accompanied by shows, choice destination for elephant experiences, with the to the remains of 21 temples and their surrounding festivities and meals. Sukhothai is a particularly pop- Chiang Mai jungle leading the way. Here, many for- fortifications. These historical relics are an impres- ular destination for the festival, with a light and sound mer mahouts have become guides for tourists look- sive sight, setting the scene for some spectacular show organized in the Historical Park. ing to spend time with elephants in ways that respect photos starring an impressive lineup of Buddha stat- the animals’ well-being. Visitors can learn how to ues. As well as its historical sites, the Sukhothai His- Kick back and relax on Koh Tao mount and ride elephants like the former mahouts torical Park is an especially nice place to visit on two (bareback) and go trekking in the jungle. They can wheels. Bikes can be hired for a few bahts (1 THB = even give the animals a bath and feed them banan- approx. 0.03 USD) and visitors are free to come, go as. Chiang Mai city makes an ideal base for a day in and explore as they please. the nearby jungle. Relive history on the bridge on the River Make friends with the monkeys of Lopburi Kwai, Kanchanaburi Situated 130km (81 miles) to the west of Bang- kok, Kanchanaburi is a must for anyone with an interest in history. Visitors flock to the area to snap a picture of the bridge over the river Kwai, which saw several thousand workers killed during its construc- tion. In the Second World War, the Japanese, who occupied the region, decided to build a railway line linking Kanchanaburi to Burma, a route stretching 410km (255 miles). Work on the line, soon nick- Koh Tao is a paradise for divers and snorkelers. named the “Death Railway,” was scheduled to take (Istock) five years, but was completed in just 18 months after the occupying Japanese put to work many of their No trip to Thailand would be complete without Australian, Dutch and British prisoners of war along- visiting one of its paradise islands. And there are is- side Asian laborers. The story was immortalized in lands to suit all kinds of visitors with very different in- Monkey business in Lopburi. (Istock) the Pierre Boulle novel and its famous movie adapta- terests. But, if there’s only time to fit in one, then Koh A few hours’ drive to the north of Bangkok, Lop- tion “The Bridge on the River Kwai.” Tao could be just the ticket. Situated in the Gulf of buri is home to hundreds of monkeys. While taking in Thailand, this “Turtle Island” is a true haven of calm the Khmer temples, visitors can experience the an- Experience Loy Krathong, the festival of lan- and relaxation, far from the crowds of tourists head- tics of the many monkeys that inhabit this so-called terns ing to the likes of Koh Phi Phi and Koh Pha Ngan for Monkey City. Visitors are advised to take care with Like a moment suspended in time, Loy Krathong Full Moon Parties. Koh Tao is a paradise for divers food and keep anything edible shut away in a bag (or sees Thailand celebrate the end of the rainy season and snorkelers. www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA Food ATODAY 24 • May 2016 Wasabi ice-cream How about an icecream that is Raindrop cake to both cold, and hot at the same time? But that’s what chefs across the world fried choco bars, have tried to achieve with... wasabi icecream! This spice-plant grown in Ja- pan has found a new lease of life in the you gotta try form of an ice cream. However, many on social media suggest that the taste is not for all. Even though people have these desserts! made it edible, this strange dessert is only for the few who want to try some- ou can’t really finish a meal without thing very unique! Yhaving a dessert, can you? And for those with a sweet tooth might consid- Ais Kacang er having this as a meal by itself. While This dessert from Malaysia and traditional sweets and cakes have been Singapore is so colourful that you the most obvious choices for desserts, might wonder if you you should have it chefs across the world seem to be or not. Made of shaved ice with sweet pushing the boundary when it comes to corn, red beans, green grass jelly and whipping up some luscious delicacies. litchi fruit — this dessert is a combina- The latest food trend that’s doing the tion of all things weird. Ever since its rounds on the internet is raindrop cake. conception, people have tried making The cake, as the name suggests, looks it with many other ingredients, too. exactly like a raindrop. We bring you made out of 23-carat gold for $1000! a zero-calorie cake. The cake is made It might not look like a typically entic- a list of unusual desserts that’s been But now, we have a small shop in Ja- out of water and agar. While many ing dessert, but the taste, we hear, is rocking the palates worldwide... pan selling a cone ice cream covered call it an uncoloured jelly, this cake is mouth-watering! in gold foil. And the best part about this served with brown sugar syrup and Gold foil ice cream dessert is that it is sold for merely $8! roasted soybean flour to make it more Deep fried chocolate bars Quite some time ago, we had Sul- Visually-appealing, yummy and quite appetising. A restaurant in Scotland began tan’s Golden Cake from Istanbul mak- unusual as well! Many recipes of the same are do- selling deep fried chocolate bars. And ing all the noise on the internet for being the rounds on social media; but the it seems the trend was quite a hit with ing one of the most expensive desserts Raindrop cake cake, as the chef says, can be made chocolate lovers across the globe. But in the world. We then had a chef in Created by New York-based chef easily if you follow the instructions ac- beware; this strange dessert is mas- Chicago selling an ice cream sundae Darren Wong, this dessert is said to be curately. sively high on calories!

Juice of 2 Lemons 5 smoothies Honey - 1/4 cup + 2 tblsp Lemonade - 3 cups Ice cubes - 4 cups you can try this Method -Combine all the ingredients, except ice cubes, in a blender. summer -Blend well until smooth. -Add the ice cubes and blend refreshing smoothie to kickstart again. Ayour day or give you the much -Pour into serving glasses. needed boost on a hot and sweltering -Serve chill. afternoon. Chocolate Peanut Butter Apple Crumble Smoothie Smoothie Ingredients Ingredients Apples - 2 cups, stewed Bananas - 1 to 2, ripe, peeled, Cinnamon - 1/2 tsp chopped Heavy Cream - 5 to 6 tblsp Cold Milk - 3/4 cup Cookies - 2, crumbled Peanut Butter - 3 tsp Vanilla Ice Cream - 2 cups Almonds - 1 tblsp (optional) Method Unsweetened Cocoa Powder - 3 -Combine the apples, cinnamon, tsp Banana Strawberry Smoothie -Add the yogurt, sugar and half of cream and ice cream in a blender. Method Ingredients the milk. -Blend until smooth. -Lightly toast the almonds and Bananas - 2, big -Blend for 2 to 3 minutes. -Pour into serving glasses. keep aside. Strawberries - 200 gms, hulled -Add the remaining milk depend- -Sprinkle the crumbled cookies on -Transfer the chopped bananas to Plain or Vanilla Yogurt - 1 cup ing on how thick or thin you want the top. a blender. Milk - 3 cups, chilled smoothie to be. -Serve at once. -Add the milk, peanut butter, co- Ice Cubes - few (optional) -Garnish with a strawberry slices. coa powder and blend until smooth. Sugar - 2 to 3 tblsp (optional) -Serve at once. Mango Yogurt Smoothie -Pour into serving glasses. Method Ingredients -Garnish with toasted almonds. -Slice the bananas and strawber- Blueberry Lemonade Smoothie Mango - 3/4 cups, peeled, diced -Serve at once. ries into small pieces. Ingredients Plain Yogurt - 1/3 cup -Add them to a blender. Blueberries - 2 cups, frozen Honey - 1 1/2 tblsp www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz SIA • May 2016 ATODAY 25 Phoenix Desi Sports and Cultural Club celebrates Baisakhi Mela 2016 nce again, PDSCC celebrated Baisakhi Mela in a grand manner while still managing to keep the event itself free for the attendees. OThe day was filled with cultural activities that included dance programs, traditional Punjabi sports that are similar to the activity known here as Tug of War, free food, and informational activities such as the ability to talk to immigration lawyers and many others. The community event was attended and thoroughly enjoyed by a large crowd.

www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA Local Coverage ATODAY 26 • May 2016 INDIAN SENIORS ASSOCIATION OF ARIZONA (ISAA)- LA PRINCESA

n Mar 29, 2016, despite cold and 1. Pandya Family celebrated Vinayakbhai’s 94th Birthday at ISAA 2.RamNa- Obreezy conditions the picnic today vami, Hanuman & Mahavir Jayanti Celebrations 3. Volunteers for Food on April was great fun. The sun sure helped a 19th 4. Sponsors -Shashibhai & Shakuben with friends at ISAA 5.Happy Birth- day Shyambhaiya 6.Over 90 seniors paying dedicated full attention and ben- lot, later in the morning. Great enthu- efiting ISAA program 7.ISAA at the picnic 8.Picnics are the most popular events siasm by Manjuben ,Shardaben and for ISAA 9.Picnic sponsors – Mannubhai, Shardaben and Manjuben Mannubhai who sponsored the picnic. The members who braved the weather had a treat of delicious Mexican vari- with the most soothing popular Sitar had a treat of hot tea, samosas , chips ety food.It was nice to see Ramanbhai and Flute music whilst enjoying hot tea and salsa for snacks.The lunch was return after his surgery.Narayanbhai and socialization amongst over ninety freshly cooked khichadi, shaak, chhas had a few words of wisdom with verses attendees. What a Joyous Day! We and seviyas enjoyed by over sixty &UstadRashidkhan on “Jogi”. The from Geeta. celebrated Mr. Vinayakbhai Pandya’s folks.There was entertainment, singing video on VandeMataram by oriental ar- On April 19, 2016, the day began 94th Birthday with a flash back of his and other fun with lots of socialization tistes was breath taking.Many thanks with the most soothing popular reli- youth in the fifties. Following video clips too.Many thanks to our sponsors who to Charanjit&Rajendra and Kanwalben gious music and prayers of bhajans were highlighted - listening and watch- made it happen.Chhotubhai briefed on for lovely homemade lunch. Dr. Tangri of Siya Ram, Hanumanji and Bhag- ing to the five most popular songs of potential A/C problems of cars during was surprised by wonderful birthday wanMahavir Swami whilst enjoying 1957 NayaDaur movie. Lesson learn- summer months and offered his help- celebration. Over eighty five members hot tea and socialization amongst over ing clips included – vegetables washed prior to going to a repair shop. and guests participated in the fun.Ji- ninety attendees. Babubhai&Deviben by water having high disease potential On August 05, 2016, the hall was tubhai briefed the audience on TEDx were kind in establishing a beauti- and caution to be alert from the profes- alive as the crowd mingled while en- presentation on April 30, 2016 at the ful temple with all the Almighty Lords sional baggers. The educational clips joying nice hot tea. The conversations Thunderbird Global School of Manage- enabling us with the intended cel- dealt with – Mysterious Creation in the were many faceted as the subjects ment There is a full day seminar on- ebrations of RamNavmi, Hanuman desert of Oregon and Creative Talent were many.Today’s wonderful program “Act Today, Change tomorrow” Jayanti &Mahavir Jayanti. Video clips of Fruit Decoration and Amazing Art of started with ISAA’s gratitude presenta- On April 12, 2016, after meet & highlighted were; Benefits of Tulsi and Paintings. Two ppt presentations were tion. It was simply awesome (attached). greet the program got underway with a Hazards of Electro-magnetic fields in made summarizing 2015 Year-End Fi- There was a clip on how to say sorry one minute silence and prayer for over the wrong use of cellular phones. We nancial Report and also on 2016 First and have fun too. The hall was roaring one hundred deceased and over four also enjoyed watching the Baisakhi Quarter Financial Report as well. Over- with laughter when the clip about “pa- hundred injured in fire at the temple in song and also prayers of Raghupati- all performance and operation of ISAA, tikofatkarjaruri Hai” . Bollywood parade Kerala . Possible causes of fire and the Raghav, Vaishnavajan to and more, is outstanding. Credit for this continued on one Thanksgiving Day in New York lessons learnt was discussed.Sapna& creating atmosphere of holy-spirit in success goes to the members whose just stood out in every aspect- beauty, Parag’s First wedding anniversary the hall. Meenaben&Kanwalben ex- contributions are of immense value. color, lively, music, and songs. The was celebrated with dance and garba. plained the significance of Baisakhi Collective efforts and the harmony are crowds enjoyed it thoroughly. History Video clips were shown included;- Hi celebrations. Deviben, Manjuben, Har- the major factors for the excellence. has somehow forgotten the “Silk War- tech magic, A tear jerker demonstrat- shadbhai, Jayshreeben, Srikantbhai If anyone has any question on ISAA’s riors” .A sacrifice by a few soldier of ing India has many good people who and some others chanted lots popu- accountability, they are welcome. Vi- “Sikh regimen” against Afghan army in care for others, Three beautiful event lar bhajans and dhoons of devotional jaybenTangri shared the details of the 1897. We must make a note of the appropriate Bollywood songs, Adam prayers. Subsequently, the attend- recent Home Fire having eye-opening clip on- Thirty great temples of India, Trent’s amazing show, WOW trick of ees offered ‘aarti’ seeking the Lords’ lesson learning potentials.Ramanbhai “walk to save life”, Hanuman chalisa. cards, Benefits of Gud (jaggery), State blessings. In the absence of luncheon demonstrated the easy way to peel A gallant -Bhumika Patel- how she took of corruption, and an appeal to young sponsors, Shakuben, Renukaben, garlic buds. Chhotubhai provided ad- care of a robber single handedly (must generation for a change, clear mes- Gitaben&Manjuben volunteered plenti- vice on cutting down carbs to avoid see to believe). Renukaben presented sage to protect backs with correct way ful food for luncheon for nearly ninety sufferings from strokes. ISAA is grate- “Men’s worth”- really educational. How and postures for lifting weights.Today’s five members and guests with - gener ful to Yogen& Yoga Pandya for the gen- can we forget the bhajan” Hari ne bh- luncheon sponsors were Shakuben osity! erosity of $101 and, also for Nayana- jata”, Classic tune by Richa Sharma and Shashikantbhai. Over eighty five On April 26, 2016, the day began ben bags full of fresh oranges. www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz SIA • May 2016 ATODAY 27 Singhs, Kaurs, and Suns Community Event in Arizona

April 11, 2016 Members of the community that By Deepa Kaur Walia were interested in attending rganized by K3 a professional basketball OInternational, a game were able to do so with Sacramento based company tickets at a discounted price for dedicated to promote the Indus members attending as part of Valley’s rich culture, heritage, that group. In addition, it gave and diversity within the US the children from the Phoenix and Canada, the very first Desi Sports and Cultural Club Sikh Awareness event took an opportunity to perform place right here in Arizona Bhangra, a traditional form of on April 11, 2016 at our own dance, as entertainment in the Phoenix Suns Basketball pre-game show. As I walked game. K3 was formed by around talking to people while Inderjit Singh Kallirai, Ravinder the performance was going on, Singh Kahlon, and Guriqbal many stated they had never Singh Kang and the K3 name seen the costumes or dance reflects the first initial of the last or heard the music before. names of the three founders. Some commented on really Ironically, the letter K is also liking the beat while others significant in the Sikh religion said the colorful costumes and and culture for which the energetic dance moves were group was raising awareness. cool to watch. Khalsa Sikhs, a collective The event was K3’s first body of initiated Sikhs, wear step into doing such events what is known as The 5 Ks or in Arizona and was supported the five Articles of Faith (Kesh by many local Sikh leaders to meaning uncut hair, Kangha make it a success. Asia Today meaning a wooden comb, Kara thanks K3 for the opportunity meaning a metal bracelet, to cover the event and looks Kachera meaning a specific forward to future happenings style of cotton undergarment, by their organization in and Kirpan a strapped curved Arizona. Please visit http:// sword) as commanded by the www.k3international.org/ for tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind more information about the Singh Ji, during Vaisakhi in organization. We wish K3 and 1699. its founders continued success The Sikh Awareness as they march forward in their Event, which coincided nicely mission of awareness and with Vaisakhi during which the Khalsa was formed, included many benefits to the Sikh community in Arizona. education.

www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA ATODAY 28 • May 2016 AZ international Market Place Grand Opening

www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz Calendar of Events SIA • May 2016 ATODAY 29 MAY 2016 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Shankar Ehsaan Swar Trayee Maharudra Ya- Loy | Live in ganm & Kumb- Concert Maharudra Yag- habhishekam nam & Kumb- Jewelry Show habhishekam | Language of - MGTOA Grandeur Haasya Hunga- ma | Free Event

YAKSHAGANA at SVK Temple

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Maharudra Yag- Life Transforma- nam & Kumbhab- tion Program hishekam 2016

Meditation Workshops For Spiritual Aware- ness

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Carnatic Vocal The Phenom- * Modern Web Concert by Pat- enon and Gift Development tabhirama Pandit Workshops with MEAN Grand Sri Srini- * Pakistan Visa vasa (Balaji) Camp Kalyan @ Ekta * Vaikasi Mandir Vishakam Cel- ebrations - MG- Life Transforma- TOA tion Program * Meditation 2016 Workshops For Spiritual Aware- ness

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Naari (Woman)| A Unique Dance Drama

MAHIMA 2016

29 30 31

"Courtesy of www.azindia.com" www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA star Monthly ATODAY 30 • May 2016 erret out information that ou’re in need of love. At- nexpected romantic con- Fwill hold them responsible. Ytempt to face key issues Unections can be made if You may want to try your hand with lovers or problems could you go out with friends or take a at a little creative writing. Don’t escalate. Someone you work pleasure trip. This is a good day let your boss get the better with may be emotional. Don’t let to check out your investments. of you. Don’t be too quick to your partner goad you into wear- You could do extremely well judge those you live with. Don’t ing your heart on your sleeve. in competitive sports events. do something silly just to get Your luckiest events this month Broaden your horizons and look ARIES back at your mate. Your lucki- TAURUS will occur on a Friday. GEMINI into programs that will teach you est events this month will occur awareness and relaxation. Your on a Tuesday. luckiest events this month will occur on a Saturday.

Mar 21 April 21 May 21 to to to Apr 20 May 20 June 21

old your temper and re- e sure to organize events isitors may be likely to drop Hfrain from doing anything Bthat will keep the children Vby. You should expect to that might cause injury. You can busy. Resist any idle chatter. have changes in your home. make profitable investments if Overstatement will be your You should consider getting you purchase an art object for downfall. You might be overly your whole family involved in your home. You haven’t been emotional concerning situations a project at home. Don’t evade watching your spending habits at work. Your luckiest events important issues; you may find and you may have been ne- this month will occur on a Fri- yourself backed into a corner. CANCER glecting your duties. You may be LEO day. VIRGO Your luckiest events this month frustrated by the way situations will occur on a Saturday. are being handled in your personal life. 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

ou can expect to have a our talents might just be oney problems will be diffi- Yproblem with your lover. Ydiscovered. You could be Mcult to deal with if you have Don’t put off the things that they your own worst enemy if you a partner. Deep discussions have asked you to do. You can overreact to something you’re may only lead to friction. Your make money if you pursue your told. Don’t lend to people who best gains will come through own business. Get involved have given you negative vibes. helping others emotionally. in sports events that will ben- Changes regarding family Romance may be likely if you LIBRA efit your physical appearance. SCORPIO members will set you off. Your SAGITTARIUS travel. Your luckiest events this Double-check before you go luckiest events this month will month will occur on a Wednes- out. Your luckiest events this occur on a Saturday. day. month will occur on a Thursday.

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

ou may have difficulties ou will be a bit of a spend- ou need to keep busy doing Ywith someone who lives Ythrift this month. Take time Ythings that you both enjoy. with you. You can offer your to do something nice for your- Avoid being intimately involved help to others but back off if self. Be careful not to reveal pri- with clients or colleagues. Proper- they appear to be offended by vate information. You must look ty investments, insurance, tax re- your persistence. This will not into your options. Your luckiest bates, or inheritance should bring be the day to lend money to events this month will occur on you financial gains. Don’t forget CAPRICOM friends or family. Try to under- AQUARIES a Friday. PISCES to let your mate know how much stand their point of view. Your you care. Your luckiest events this luckiest events this month will month will occur on a Wednesday. occur on a Wednesday.

Dec 22 Jan 22 Feb 20 to to to Jan 21 Feb 19 Mar 20 www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz SIA • May 2016 ATODAY 31 AZTA Ugadi article from Venkat Kommineni

www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA Bollywood News ATODAY 32 • May 2016 Fan review: There are holes, but it’s definitely a thrilling ride ust when you thought Shah JRukh Khan is losing his edge, he makes a comeback. And how? Going back to his early acting days, where twisted characters gave him his big break, Bollywood’s king of romance still has what it Film Review Fan Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Waluscha de Sousa, Sayani Gupta Director: Maneesh Sharma Rating: 3.5/5 takes to give you the creeps. Though one of the better Shah Rukh Khan scripts in years, Fan is not devoid of holes, but it still makes for a thrilling watch. With the actor playing the two main characters in the film, especially two that are at such odds with each other, it can’t be easy to keep a smooth narrative. However, Fan may just well be an inward journey to show his trophy to Aryan. of himself yet wants to sustain gives Khan a chance to be to origins and renders the for Shah Rukh Khan where Like a true fan, Gaurav traces an image which doesn’t hurt self-indulgent in a film that Delhi tone to Shah Rukh’s his large celebrity persona Aryan’s journey in Mumbai – his fans’ adulations. But, he is celebrates his Darr-Baazigar- Mumbai-ness. He is also the meets the humble old him that he stays at the same hotel, also not ready to acknowledge Anjaam days. In a way, Sharma one responsible for giving represents the thousands of travels without a ticket... but their contribution to his demands the superstar to Gaurav a lovable outlook. his fans. when he finally reaches the stardom. Nevertheless, he is surpass his previous hit roles. Though Fan is irrational at The premise: Superstar star’s house, the boy from human, and is scared to lose But Shah Rukh walks a tight times, it keeps the adrenaline Aryan Khanna (Shah Rukh Delhi is lost in the sea of other it all. rope, for he plays both an pumping all 143-minutes of Khan) started out small. He fans like him. Gaurav is a sharp antithesis ageing superstar and a no- the movie. Also, the idea didn’t bother to buy train After much planning, to this. He is a regular Joe; he name nobody. of keeping it a song-less tickets and stayed in a small, Gaurav meets Aryan, but is intelligent but impractical With his years of practice, film works because that claustrophobic hotel when he the encounter is nothing and disconnected from SRK aces this role with ease. keeps the overdramatic tone first set foot in Mumbai. His he expected it to be. A reality. His protective parents We see film stars making from seeping in. It’s a total insatiable greed for success disillusioned Gaurav tries indulged him always and never appearances at wedding throwback to Shah Rukh and an indomitable spirit his best to persuade the star discouraged him from doing parties or ready to do anything Khan’s ‘90s avatars, but he eventually makes him one of to show some gratitude to crazy Aryan Khanna-inspired as long as they are getting once again shows how good Bollywood’s biggest success his fans, but Aryan is too antics. When we’re introduced paid. Aryan Khanna is no he still is in that genre. stories; a brand unto himself narcissistic to share his credit to Gaurav, his mannerisms exception. Maneesh Sharma may (sound familiar?). with a million people. subtly hint at his cynicism, and He is humiliated in the appear inspired by Hollywood, Gaurav Chanana (also This is where the story truly the lengths to which he’d go to process, but also understands but he keeps Fan original Shah Rukh Khan) is a 25-year- begins. meet Aryan Khanna. But the the value of his stardom. enough. old who runs a cyber cafe The conflict between the question is: How far can he Self-deprecating humour and As a whole, Fan delivers in West Delhi’s Inder Vihar. two arises from the fact that go? honesty is what makes Aryan what it promised in the trailers. Unusually confident, he’s a pro Aryan Khanna is not the same The thrill of the movie is Khanna a character to watch Logic may not be its strong at mimicking his idol Aryan. A person he projects to be. He is watching Shah Rukh Khan out for. point, but Shah Rukh most ‘best actor’ trophy in a local menacing and mean in real life, trying to one up himself. It is The dialogues stand Fan in definitely is; he’s back in his competition gives him a new but takes a moral high ground Shah Rukh versus Shah Rukh. good stead. Sharat Katariya, element after a long time. purpose in life: Now he wants on certain issues. He is in awe Director Maneesh Sharma the dialogue writer, stays true Watch it for him. www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz Bollywood News SIA • May 2016 ATODAY 33 different people you meet. I am glad I got opportunity to share my thoughts Aishwarya and work at this prestigious festival. I feel humbled and privileged to speak there, represent Indian cinema and be Rai a member of film fraternity. It has been a precious experience,” she said. She also praised actress Priyanka Bachchan Chopra, Deepika Padukone who are working in West for various ventures. reveals how “Kudos to everybody (Priyanka, Deep- ika) for all frontiers that you wish to achieve. We have appeared on your she prepares channel (pointing towards a camera- man) so we feel grateful for that as for Cannes red well. We are glad that we had the opportunity to be covered by you (me- carpet dia),” she said. Aishwarya also said that Cannes ollywood star Aishwarya Rai Bach- would have been the perfect platform Bchan’s red carpet looks at Cannes for Sarbjit . “I do not know if the team may face scrutiny in India but that will be able to make the opportunity doesn’t mean she spend sleepless possible on that platform as well be- nights wondering what she will wear advance as I would be meeting you all carpet,” Aishwarya said. cause Cannes will be happening in the this year. soon (referring to promotions of Sarb- She has been attending the pres- last week (the film releases on May 20). When asked about her choice of jit).” She is expected to attend the film tigious Cannes Film Festival for last Given the timeline, if it is possible, the outfit for the upcoming Cannes film festival on May 13 and 14. “Laying out 15 years. “The experience has been team will look for the opportunity. But, festival, the actress, who had earlier the wardrobe is too early. I am girl on different year after year. It has been however if there are too many dead- dazzled the audience with her sarto- the go. But I have never spent sleep- 15 years, I am thankful to L’Oréal for lines to match regretfully, that chance rial choices, said, “I think it is a bit in less nights planning the Cannes red this. It’s a great exchange of ideas with may have to be cut off,” she said.”

uperstar Salman Khan and Sonam Kapoor’s Sonakshi Sinha to play a Prem Sinterviews and interesting behind-the-scene moments form a mega webisode, titled Mem- Ratan oirs of Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, set to release Pakistani journalist in Noor online as a special treat for fans. The webisode, by filmmaker Vidhi Kasliwal, Dhan Payo will also see director Sooraj Barjatya, Anupam Kher and other actors along with the entire unit making, of the movie discuss and share their thoughts on the title, the reasons behind the title Prem Ratan Dhan Payo and the bond between trivia to Salman and Sooraj that began with Maine Pyar Kiya 25 years ago. release “From the time Sooraj ji decided to make his next film, I knew I wanted to be a part of it. online We shot day and night and captured very interesting footage. The icing on the cake was that he was working with the one & only Salman Khan again,” said Vidhi in a statement. “My team canned over 250 hours of footage from which I was very keen to produce and direct the digital assets. So what started as a 10-webisode series increased to 21 webisodes as the response to each asset was phenomenal! I was very happy when Soorajji told me that my team’s hardwork had contributed so much to the record breaking opening the film got.” Incidentally, a feature-length documentary on the making of PRDP, also by Vidhi, is expected to release this year.

onakshi Sinha is all set to star year ends and is said to be release Sin a film based on Saba Imti- by 2017. az’s popular novel Karachi, You’re Saba Imtiaz’s novel revolves Killing Me! around a female journalist Aisha The 28-year-old actor will por- and her struggles in Karachi. tray a Karachi-based journalist in Presently, the Dabangg actress the film titled Noor, reports the Ex- is busy shooting for Abhinay Deo’s press Tribune. Force 2. Reportedly, the film that will be Her other film, A.R. Muru- directed by newcomer Sunhil Sip- gadoss directed Akira is set to re- py will be in production before the lease on September 23. www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA Chai With ATODAY 34 • May 2016 Chai with.... Sadhu Singh Dharamsot, the Former Minister of Punjab April 24, 2016 he former Minister of Punjab, Sadhu Singh Dharamsot, Tvisited Phoenix recently and our very own Phoenix Scor- pions Field Hockey Club endorsed an event in honor of his visit on April 24, 2016. Mr. Dharamsot is touring USA to support Cap- tain Amarjinderr Singh’s leadership for elec- tions in 2017. Asia Today was very pleased to meet Sadhu Singh Ji who had great mes- sages around saving Punjab. He stated that Punjab is facing a crisis and only the right leadership will bring it back to its former glory. According to him, Congressman Amarinder is an ideal candidate that wants to concentrate on removing drugs from our youth and focus on Indian farmers and their needs. Punjab is and was known to provide food to the world and is now suffering due to poor leadership. He insisted that we have to support the farmers to eradicate water scarcity support and develop industries, all of which is only possible under a committed and dedicated leader like Captain Amrinder Singh. His final message to all NRI Punjabis is that don’t give usany money but save Punjab by giving Punjab the right leadership. Asia Today is grateful to Phoenix Scorpions for continuing to organize events time after time that highlight hockey cham- pions, leaders, and other influential people such as Sadhu Singh Dharamsot.

www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz SIA • May 2016 ATODAY 35 IACRF Seniors Group Enjoying Spring Season By Prakash Kotecha and Pradyumana Kshatriya

ACRF Seniors Group meets every IMonday and Thursday, 10:00AM to 3:00PM at the Indo-American Com- munity Center, 2809 W. Maryland Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85017. For information, please contact Mahendra Devgania Tel: 602-708-0733 Coming events: May 5 Thursday - Mother’s Day Celebration Weekly Activities: Monday meetings: IACRF Board of Directors approved Monday meetings of the Seniors Group and thus now Se- niors are meeting twice a week, Mon- days and Thursdays from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Indo-American Community Center. Members are delighted to have opportunity to meet twice weekly. March 24: Antakshari was initiated by Srikanth Vaidya and almost all the members joined in antakshari, the card playing members joined antakshari even while continuing the playing cards. As usual members could easily come up with bollywood songs, Gu- jarati Songs, poems, bhajans and the program went on for over 90 minutes with both the teams picking up the song on completion of the other party instantly. Antaskhari was a blast. Rameshbhai Patel and Ushaben Patel from Fountain Hills were our guests on 24th March. Mr. Prasad and Rupesh from Swami Vivekanand Yoga Anusandhana Samsthan were visiting us and briefed us about their Yoga program for diabetes management. March 31st: Ashok and Rita Patel joined us for the day. Ashok Patel has been a valley resident for a long time. Mr. Ashok Patel is a very generous donor and had supported Ekta Mandir development from its inception days that he is originally from Wakaner and brated on this day and the activity ven- Rita Patel, Jagdish and Sheela Trivedi, with a donation of 200,000 dollars. owned a chemical industry in the past, ue was shifted for the day from IACRF Jagan and Uma Lingamneni, Parvati Bhagubhai welcomed Ashu Valturi and now retired. Hall to Ekta Mandir and Ram Janma and Madhav Tummala, and Kishor thanked him for making DISH Network Dr. Prakash Kotecha made the- and Aarti were celebrated with lots of Vyas & Tara Patel. arrangements for screening match for matic presentation on WHO day. He devotion and prayers by members that the world cup T20 cricket. gave an over view of World Health Or- was followed by Mahaprasad. Special News 7th April : Usha Gautam, a teach- ganization, its country offices, regional 21st April: This was picnic day to Lalitbhai brought the new TV to er by profession who has moved from offices, head quarters and total staff Rio Vista Park and members turned the center along with DVD player and California accepted the responsibil- and what are the functions of WHO out in large number despite not so TV stand. This will make the senior in- ity for announcements. Ugadi, Telegu and then introduced WHO day theme pleasant weather condition. Seniors dependent for small meeting and per- new year and Gudi Padwa, Maharash- of the past and then briefly mentioned enjoyed with fun and food. Chit chats, sonal presentations etc as and when tra new year were celebrated today. about this year theme of “Halt the rise, card games, Trail walks and had really required. JaiSeecharran, our senior member beat diabetes” and take home mes- good time. Prakash Deshmukh and Man- had brought three visitors from Iowa. sages related to diet and exercise that Lunch Sponsors for the month in- har Khatri joined as new members of Mr. and Mrs. Chandrakant Shah & would enable healthy life cluded, Rameshbhai and Nina Zaveri, IACRF Board of Directors besides Ja- Sunita Jain. Mr. Chadrakant explained 14th April: Ramnavmi was cele- Ratibhai and Kumud Javia, Ashok and gan Lingamneni and Jai Seecharran. www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA ATODAY 36 • May 2016 Real Estate News of Arizona - May 2016

Hello Friends, et me start with wishing a Happy LMother’s Day to all the wonderful mothers in the valley that makes every- day click. Being a mother of two myself, I can personally relate to all the hard work that goes into keeping the kids, hubby and the home-front going and hope all your wonderful mothers had some time to yourself on Mother’s Day. Now coming to the real-estate market in the valley, it seems to have picked up pace and that is not surprising considering the fact that we will be getting into peak summer shortly. However there is a risk of a temporary slow-down with the recent announcement of Intel, our biggest employer in the south-east valley of the recent layoffs. Looking at the some of the Statistics from NAR, they released data for exist- ing home sales, which rebounded in March after dropping significantly during the previous month. Sales rose 5.1% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.33 million last month from a down- wardly revised 5.07 million in February. NAR also found the median price of ex- isting homes for all housing types single- family homes, town homes, condos and co-ops jumped 5.7% to $222,700, from March 2015 to March 2016. Let’s take a look at the March sales of Residential Properties in Maricopa County- ● Total Sales for Single Family, Town-home, Condos, for March are 8,327 whereas, February was 5,075 and January were 4,520 ● The Active listings for Single Family, Town-home, Condos for March are 26,523 whereas, February was 22,259 and January were 21,005 ● Pending sales for Single Family, Town-home, Condos, March are 7,963 whereas, February was 6,590 and Janu- ary were 4,733 The total home sales by financing were- Cash Sales -1,959 higher absorption rates. Fountain Hills was sold for $18.8 mil- coming at [email protected] or call me Conventional - 3,657 Here are the March sales of Resi- lion for the complex. There were total at 480-242-8573. FHA -2,018 dential Properties in Pinal County- 150 units. Disclaim- VA- 604 ● Total Sales for Single Family, Canada based Mattamy Homes er: This article All data from the Arizona Regional Town-home, Condos for March are 761 which has big Residential development makes no repre- Multiple Listing Service, Inc. whereas, February was 467 and Janu- footprint in Arizona has bought a 173 sentation or war- The median price in Maricopa ary were 454 acres in Tucson for $8.3 million from city ranties of any County for March 2016 was $229,000 in ● The Active listings for Single of Tucson. Its off the Interstate I-10 and kind as to the February 2016 it was $225,000. If we in Family, Town-home, Condos for March south of Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. ac-curacy of the last year March of 2015 it was $211,320. are 2,681 whereas, February was 2, 728 Mark-Taylor Development Inc. has data. The source The Absorption rate overall in valley and January were 2,570 bought 20 acres of land in Mesa for of data has been varied as per the demand, Absorption ● Pending Sales for Single Fam- $5.4million. It plans on building a 346- taken from sev- rate is the percent of sales that are sold ily, Town-home, Condos, for March are unit apartment complex at the U.S. 60 eral sources each month of the inventory. A higher 823 whereas, February was 752 and and Greenfield Road. such as Armls, percent means that inventory is moving January were 514 Hope this article gives you a peek cromford report, at a faster rate, and thus is a Seller’s in what’s happening in our valley. As Better Homes and Garden, Costar, market. The total absorption rate is 30%. Now let’s take a look on com- always, I love your questions, com- Globest, BizJournal, News-geni, Realty Certain areas of town we have still seen mercial side- Ridge View apartment complex in ments & feedback. Please keep them times, azcentral, wall street journal. www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz SIA • May 2016 ATODAY 37 United Indo- Pak Christian Church Easter Service 2016 Pics 1

www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz www.asiatodayaz.com SIA ATODAY 38 • May 2016 May, 2016 (by Pankaj) April Day Muhurta 1 Sun Harsh day, harsh nature of nakshatra; need to avoid confrontation as day is rough. COD: White, Green, Brown, Red 2 Mon Moon & Nakshatra produces a happy & cheerful day after 10 am. Day to pursue hard tasks, Ganapati pooja is most beneficial. Colour of the Day (COD): Sliver/Yellow 3 Tue Moon-Sat-Mars combination produces intuitive & imaginative thinking. Day to correct past mistakes & to make amends. COD: White, Blue, Black, Red 4 Wed Moon and Mercury combination produces a fruitful happiny & successul day in any venture undertaken. COD: Yellow, Yellow, Orange, Copper 5 Thu Ketu & Moon combine to produce a stressful day, results may not be as expected, stick to routine. COD: Sunset Orange, Red & Grey 6 Fri Amavasya Day, restrict activities to bare essential except for Prayers for the departed loved ones, best time is Yama kaal between 8:30 am to 10:20 am for such activity. COD: White 7 Sat Day of material things, trade, commerce and financial activities. Be aggressive in work, face difficult situations boldly. COD: Sunset Orange/Blue 8 Sun Day of joy, peace and happiness with an unstoppable nergy to do physical work & fulfill pending labour intensive jobs. COD: White, Pink, Sunset Orange 9 Mon A day to take ownership & perform intelligent actions will be most enjoyable and satisfying to the mind, body & soul. COD: Red, Green & Sunset Orange, 10 Tue Rahu-Moon-Mars combine this day. Solve issues, family problems amicably, focus on higher pursuits & goals in life this day. COD: Sunset Orange, Purple, Blue 11 Wed Materialistc day for personal gains & success. Also focus on health, diet & nuitrition & physical exercise. Energies will be at their peak. COD: Red, Green, White 12 Thu Jupiter-Moon-Mercury & Saturn combine to pursue trade, commerce & religious pursuits, however, be careful of going overboard. COD: Brown, Blue, Black 13 Fri Day of material things, trade, commerce and financial activities. Be aggressive in work, face difficult situations boldly, don’t shy away or postpone difficult work. COD: Black, Red 14 Sat Day produces an aggressive yoga to defeat opponent, adversity & overcome any obstacle. COD: Brown, Black, Green 15 Sun Planets combine to produce a phylosophical & inquisitive mind. Day may be dedicated to spiritual activities & discussion. COD: Grey, Yellow, Light Blue 16 Mon Moon’s attachment for greed increases manifold. Keep desires & greed under control. COD: Red, Green 17 Tue Perform best efforts that bring permanent results. Dealings with authority, govt. or people in power. COD: Brown, Blue, Black 18 Wed Favourable for completion of pending projects & collection of bad debts or borrowed money. COD:White, sunset Orange, Light Blue 19 Thu Moon has full Chandra bal, so do things that involve use of mental energy this day. COD: Sunset Orange, White, Silver 20 Fri Purnima: Day of intellectual activities wth passionate thinking & actions. Moon’s combination with malefics brings immense mental strain today. COD: White, Brown, Copper Green 21 Sat Materialistc day for personal gains & success. Also focus on health, diet & nuitrition & physical exercise.Materialistic Energies will be at their peak. COD: Red, Green, White 22 Sun Good day for new ventures, property matters, taking medicine, healing, music, learning new things & having important open communications. COD: Shades of Yellow 23 Mon Restlessness, fear of accusations, fights etc, the day will be quite unstable or rough, stick to routine activities alone. COD: Silver, White, Green 24 Tue Combination of Venus, Moon, Ketu & Jupiter may lead to self conflict, duality in thinking finally, avoid arguments & verbal altercation. COD: Clear light shades. 25 Wed Moon is in extremely powerful house, nails & hair cutting is advisable today, Parvati pooja is most recommended. Colour of the day (COD): Green 26 Thu Good day for astro & spiritual sciences, good day to socialise, try to show genuine concern for other people’s problems, they will fall in love with you for your genuinity. COD: White, Red 27 Fri Day of material things, trade, commerce and financial activities. Eligibles may propose this day. COD: Green, White, Red 28 Sat Karya Labh: Permanent benefit from important activities undertaken today, Friendly combination of Day and nakshatra produces positive results. COD: White, Yellow 29 Sun Good day for new ventures, property matters, taking medicine, healing & house or real estate deals. COD: Shades of White & Red 30 Mon New business proposals, contracts or dealing with authority on legal matters will bring success. COD: White, Green 31 Tue Day produces highly positive results in terms of business development or real estate dealings. COD: Sunset Orange, Blue, Black,Green Myanmar’s New President

By Chase Hunter ernment for threaten- around the World. Be- and the leaders of the National ing its control. She cause of the amend- League of Democracy Party he Union of Myanmar was finally released ment passed, she was because of his unbreakable Thad been under a mili- in the latter months of forced to find an al- loyalty to Suu Kyi and his rigid tary dictatorship since1962. 2010 after internation- ternative way to take moral character. Time will only That is all changing with the al pressure was put on control of her country. tell how this predicament will results of the most recent elec- the Burmese govern- The loophole: Htin work. The Vice President in tion. Htin Kyaw, a Burmese ment for her freedom. Kyaw, a well respected Myanmar was appointed by writer and scholar, became Before her release, a scholar, Suu Kyi’s long the military, so a power fight the first civilian elected Presi- constitutional amend- time friend, and some- may ensue in the coming dent of Myanmar on March 30, ment was passed by times, even her chauf- months and years. Aung San 2016. However, Aung San Suu the military dictator- feur. His father was a Suu Kyi will continue to fight Kyi will be running the country. ship outlawing anyone poet and he studied for her people as the Burmese This confusing political envi- with foreign relatives economics at the Uni- government will try to hold on ronment in Myanmar is all due from becoming Presi- versity of Yangon in to its 56year reign of power. to the dictatorship government dent. This cleverly con- Myanmar. He would Like the Eastern European trying to stop Suu Kyi from el- structed law’s purpose be used as her standin countries in the 80’s and the evating to a powerful position. was made to make it to lead the Burmese military dictatorships in Cen- Suu Kyi is a Nobel Peace impossible for Suu Kyi government and help tral and South America, Myan- Prize winner who is known to become president free the people from mar has a long road ahead of for being condemned to her because she is married to a mocracy leader in Myanmar the tyranny of the military. He it to achieve freedom for its house by the Burmese gov- Britton. Suu Kyi is a prode- and has millions of supporters was handpicked by Suu Kyi people. www.asiatodayaz.com www.facebook.com/asiatodayaz SIA • May 2016 ATODAY 39

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