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VOL 12 ISSUE 49 ● NEW YORK / DALLAS ● DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2018 ● ENQUIRIES: 646-247-9458 www.theindianpanorama.news ‘Seriously’ considering running for President: Tulsi Gabbard BJP Loses Hindi Heartland States of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan to Congress Opposition sees its opportunity in 2019

NEW DELHI (TIP): A resurgent Congress on Tuesday, December 11 made significant gains in the Assembly elections, dealing a body blow to the BJP in Chhattisgarh Tulsi Gabbard is the first Hindu lawmaker in the US Congress Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. WASHINGTON (TIP): Tulsi Gabbard, the first Hindu The reverses for the BJP in the Hindi lawmaker in the US Congress, has said she was "seriously" heartland threw wide open the 2019 Lok considering running for the White House in 2020. Sabha elections which until a few months ago This is for the first time that the four-time Democratic appeared to be in the grip of Prime Minister lawmaker in the US House of Representatives from Hawaii Narendra Modi's party. has indicated that she may run for the presidency. If she The Assembly polls held for five states also announced her candidature, she would be the first Hindu saw the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) ever to be running for the presidency in the US. And if recording a landslide win for a second elected in 2020, she would be the first Hindu president of consecutive term and the Mizo National Congress supporters celebrate party's victory in assembly election outside AICC HQ contd on Page 32 contd on Page 32 in New Delhi, India, on Tuesday, December 11, 2018. Photo Courtesy HT Court orders FIR against Manjit Trump's ex-lawyer gets 3-yr Singh GK in Gurdwara Financial prison term for financial crimes New Year Special Edition Irregularities Case NEW YORK (TIP): Articles and President Donald Trump's Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) dissolves Delhi, former personal lawyer advertisements are Michael Cohen was invited for the New Year UP, Rajasthan units sentenced to three years in Special edition by NEW DELHI (TIP): A court on prison on Wednesday, December 30, 2018. Thursday, December 13, ordered filing December 12, for financial of a FIR against DSGMC leader Manjit crimes and orchestrating Please email to Singh GK and others in a financial hush payments to women [email protected]. irregularities case. Metropolitan before the 2016 election, Magistrate Vijaita Singh, Patiala House telling the judge his "blind Michael Cohen in New York City (File photo) For any question, Court, in her judgement, ordered the loyalty" led him to cover up please call Former DSGMC Delhi Police to lodge a complaint for Trump. The sentencing by US District Judge William Pauley in 646-247-9458. President Manjit Singh against DSGMC leader Manjit Singh Manhattan capped a stunning about-face by a lawyer who once said he GK at a press GK, general manager Harjit Singh would "take a bullet" for Trump but has now implicated the Republican conference (file photo) Visit www.theindianpanorama.news contd on Page 32 President in criminal conduct. contd on Page 32

104-02, 120th Street, S. Richmond Hill, NY 11419 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 2 NY/NJ/CT FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 Association of Indians in America (AIA) celebrates 50th Anniversary

(L to R):Dr. Urmilesh Arya President national AIA , Mr Sean Healy, VP, Mt Sinai Health (L to R):Mr Ravi Bhooplapur, Dr Urmilesh Arya, Mr Anupam Kher, Dr Budhadev Manvar, Mr Network, Dr Samin Sharma, Chair Board of Trustees, AIA Surinder Rametra, Dr Yashpal Arya

GARDEN CITY, NY (TIP): The Association of Indians in America, the grassroot national organization had a fabulous Celebration to mark its 50th Anniversary on Dec 1st at Garden City Hotel, Long Island NY. About 400 people attended the event. The event was graced by Congress man Tom Suozzi, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi , Consul General Sandeep Chakravorty and Padma Bhushan Anupam Kher The event started with Invocation by Mrs. Geeta Setia, followed by American Anthem by (L to R):Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthy, Congressman Tom Suozzi , Consul General of India Sandeep Chakravorty, Dr. Urmilesh Arya President National AIA Riti Sunshine Bhalla and Indian Anthem by a the future challenges". women empowerment in remote villages of Dr. Arthur A . Klein was honored in absentia. group of Indian ladies She said our community has been very India further enhancing children's wellbeing. He was held back because of a family Chairperson and MC Ravi Bhooplapur was successful, because of highly educated, Consul General of India in New York, emergency. His award was received by Vice introduced by Dr. Budhadev Manvar. He motivated and talented individuals. Sandeep Chakravorty highlighted the president of Mount Sinai Health Network Mr. described the achievements of the gala chair. India has placed highest premium on improvement in the economy of India andthe Sean Healy Prime Minister Narendra Modi scholarship. Bhagvat Gita says Na hi Jnanena strong relationship between India and Past Trustee of the Board and past president congratulated AIA in a special message of sadarsham pavitraihe vidyate, means nothing America. He applauded the achievements of Dr. Narendra Kukar awarded for his dedicated greetings on the occasion. He praised the purifies like knowledge Indians in America in all walks of life , praised services to AIA . In his address, he gave the Association for its pioneer work for Indian AIA has played crucial role in getting the good work the AIA is doing andsais his history of AIA. community in America and its projects for India minority status and reclassification for Indian office is open for any help the consulate can give Guest of honor Padma Bhushan Anupam President of the Association Dr. Urmilesh immigrants .Congressman TomSuozzi explained about the Kher entertained the audience with his Arya was introduced by Past Board of Trustees She further explained how AIA has been a hardships and discrimination faced by most of childhood stories and advised not to get and past president Animesh Goenka who said pioneer in serving causes of Indians in the firstimmigrants from various countries like depressed in the face of failure, but make it an Dr. Mrs. Arya has passion for philanthropy, America, addressing their issues related to Italy , Greece, etc., in America. But their hard incentive. He said, "Success then will be yours". charity and community services. professional licensing,immigration, racial and work made their dreams come true. A Video projection on history of AIA and an President Urmilesh Arya said in her address professional discrimination,civil rights and Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthy was the instrumental performance of Rudra Band were that AIA represents the hopes and aspirations many more. keynote speaker. He advised and stressed upon greatly appreciated. of those immigrants who are united by their The association has raised a participation in the political process. He said at The Herculean task of fundraising was done common bond ofIndian heritage and American substantialfunds for natural calamities in India present there are 4 Indian in the US Congress. by Dr. Yash Pal Arya.Chairperson of the Media commitment. She said this celebration is a and USA and sent medical equipment to various He hoped s that he will see more Indian origin Committee Smiti Khanna and Co-Chair Indu special occasion of remembrance and needy hospitals in India. Its PROJECT INDIA faces in the Congress in coming years. Jaiswal coordinated well with media. The reflection, a time to revisit the vision of has been actively involved in HIV prevention Assembly member Andrew Raia from event was well organized and coordinated by founders. and treatment in India. District 12, and Town Supervisor of Huntington Chairperson Ravi Bhooplapur , Co-chair Immediately after founding the Association, She emphasized and encouraged the youth to NY Chad Lupincci also joined , and Dr.Buddhadev Manvar and Surinder Rametra the primary goal was to develop a vision and a get involved with the association so that the AIA appreciated the work of Indian community in The Association of Indians in America is mission to provide a unique service impacting torch can be transferred to them. America . They said America is a melting pot extremely thankful to the Sponsors - Mt. Sinai life of each and every member of the Indian She explained her future plan for prevention where people from different countries and Hospital and Wyckoff Heights Hospital. immigrant community.She said, "We are proud and treatment of Blindness in children in India different cultures come and become part of (Based on a Press Release) of our past accomplishment and are aware of especially those who are underprivileged and American life. AAPI-QLI Celebrates 23 Years of Excellence 5 Distinguished Physicians Honored During Annual Convention LONG ISLAND, NY (TIP): Nearly 500 people from across the country came together to celebrate the contributions, achievements and growth of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin of QUEENS and LONG ISLAND (AAPI-QLI) during the 23rd annual convention here at the Hilton Huntington, Long Island, NY on Saturday,December 8th, 2018. Entertainment, CME lectures, Exhibition, Business Forums, and Networking with Recognition of five distinguished physicians for their achievements and contributions, Gala Dinner and entertainment added to the ambiance. In his presidential address, Jagdish K. Gupta, MD, President of AAPI-QLI, describing the convention as a historic event, contd on Page 20

Honorees. Dr. Alan Guerci, Dr. Jason Naidich, Dr. Satish Anand, Dr. Manjeet Chadha, and Dr. Gaddam Reddy THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 NY/NJ/CT 3 Diwali Stamp The "Power of One" Awards presented

UNITED NATIONS (TIP): The "Power of The Awards were presented by Ranju Batra, One" Award , established by Diwali Foundation, Chair of Diwali Foundation, USA, Inc. at the USA, Inc. chaired by Ranju Batra, in 2017 is to United Nations , December 11, 2018 in the celebrate and highlight the vital and important presence of a large number of diplomats, work done across the world in a peaceful community members and media. manner, especially at the United Nations. The event was co-hosted by the Permanent To be eligible for the Award, , one has to be a Missions of Belarus, Georgia and India. former Permanent Representative or former The 2018 Power of One awards were co- high level member of UN Secretariat, or soon to sponsored by the Permanent Missions of be former, who has toiled selflessly to "help to Albania, Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Cyprus, form a more perfect, peaceful and secure world Greece, France, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyztan, for all". Kuwait, Malaysia, Malta, Morocco, Oman, The recipients for the 2018 "Power of One" Republic of Korea, Romania, Slovakia, Award included H.E. Catherine Boura, former Slovenia, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, Permanent Representative of Greece to the Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, United Nations; H.E. Mohamed Khalid Khiari, Viet Nam, Permanent Observer of State of Permanent Representative of Tunisia to the Palestine, and NY Office of International United Nations till December 2018; H.E. Andrej Atomic Energy agency. Logar, former Permanent Representative of Those who addressed the gathering included Slovenia to the United Nations ; H.E. Agshin India's PR Syed Akbaruddin, Georgia's PR Kaha Mehdiyev,Former Permanent Representative of Imnadze, Algeria's PR Sabri Boukadoum, Azerbaijan; H.E. Nguyen Phuong Nga, former Kazakhstan's PR Kairat Umarov, Sri Lanka's PR Permanent Representative of Viet Nam to the Amrith Rohan Perera, Ranju Batra, Chair of United Nations; and H.E. Virachai Plasai, Diwali Foundation, USA, Inc., and Ravi Batra, former Permanent Representative of Thailand The Power of One awardees with organizers of the event Chair, National Advisory Council South Asian to the United Nations. Photo / The Indian Panorama Affairs. UN Human Rights Day FIA Elects 2019 Executive Team observed at the UN HQ Alok Kumar Elected President PTI Senior Correspondent Yoshita Singh Honored

EDISON, NJ (TIP): The Annual General body meeting of the Federation of Indian Associations (Tri-State) was held on Wed, December 8th, 2018 at the Royal Alberts Palace, Edison, NJ. The Agenda included the overall performance and activities of FIA during the year 2018 and included (Daxa Amin) General Secretary's report as well as the fiscal year's financial reports (prepared by KP-CPA LLP & presented by Treasurer Himanshu Bhatia). These reports were made available, were reviewed and unanimously approved. The meeting also made the formal announcement of the newly elected Executive Committee for the upcoming year of 2019. Srujal Parikh, the reigning President of FIA (for 2018) presided over the meeting From left, Attorney Dr Menaka Guruswamy; Moderator Paulomi Tripathi,and Attorney Arundhati accompanied by his Executive Committee of Katzu during a panel discussion on "Equality, Dignity and Justice for All" on the occasion of 2018 namely, Alok Kumar (Executive Vice "Human Rights Day", organized by Indian Mission at the United Nations on December 10. President), Daxa Amin (General Secretary) & Chhavi Dharayan (Vice President), President Elect Alok Kumar contd on Page 20 Photo / Courtesy Paresh Gandhi

Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin delivers his opening remarks on the occasion of Human Rights Day celebration at the United Nations. Photos / Jay Mandal-On Assignment

UNITED NATIONS (TIP): United Nations Katzu represented Navtej Singh Johar and Human Rights Day was observed at the UN other lead petitioners spearheading the quest Headquarters in New York, December 10. for justice before the Supreme Court of India. A panel discussion on "Equality, Dignity Paulomi Tripathi, First Secretary at the and Justice for All" was the highlight of the Indian Mission moderated the discussion. celebrations. The panelists included Dr Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin, Permanent Menaka Guruswamy and Attorney Representative of India to the United Nations TheNew Team. L to R: Amit Ringasia, Himanshu Bhatia, Srujal Parikh, Alok Kumar, Amit Yadav Arundhati Katzu. Both Guruswamy and inaugurated. & Saureen Parikh Photo / Courtesy Paresh Gandhi THE INDIAN PANORAMA 4 INDIANS ABROAD FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 Indian social worker Air India raises JFK International- commits suicide in UAE Mumbai connection to ten flights a week

NEW YORK (TIP): Air India has revealed it has boosted its connections to the United States this week by announcing the introduction of three new non-stop flights covering the JFK International to Mumbai route. As of 7 December of this year the new route, operated by Air India's Boeing 777- 300ER aircraft, depart at 1105 from JFK on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday on 777-300ER planes. They will arrive in Mumbai at 12:10 the following day. Sandeep Vellaloor suffered financial loss which prompted him to hang himself Commenting on the new route, Bhuvana Facebook photo Rao, Air India's regional head in the Americas, highlighted how the new flights DUBAI (TIP): A 35-year-old prominent reflect the growth of India as a hot spot for Indian social worker in the UAE has North American travelers when she said: allegedly committed suicide by hanging "The additional New York to Mumbai non- himself from a ceiling fan in his stop service reflects the growing popularity of apartment, a media report has said. India as a business and leisure destination. Sandeep Vellaloor, a staff surveyor in Our flights are also among the most Ms Bhuvana Rao, Air India's regional head for Americas said, "The additional New York to Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) emirate, suffered a convenient for passengers travelling beyond Mumbai non-stop service reflects the huge financial loss after setting up a Mumbai and Delhi, with customs and growing popularity of India as a business and transport company, which is believed to immigration formalities completed at the JFK - Mumbai inaugural flight leisure destination". have prompted him to hang himself, final destination on select connecting flights Khaleej Times reported on Sunday, to major cities across India." and the Indian capital and the new flights will a week). December 9. All flights to India from the US feature take this coverage from seven flights a week to To celebrate the launch Air India is offering The father of three was a prominent convenient transfers onto from the US Indian ten. And, increasing Air India's total non-stop special fares on the new route, good for travel social worker. His two roommates were not destinations, such as Bangalore, Amritsar, services from the US to India to the US to 36 from 9 December 2018 to 11 May 2019. All of at home when he apparently committed Hyderabad, Chennai, and Pune. nationwide, including Newark-Delhi (daily), Air India's non-stop flights from the United suicide, it said. The airline already operates a daily service Chicago-Delhi (daily), Washington-Delhi States feature first, business, and economy Police have started an investigation into between New York's most well-known airport (weekly) and San Francisco-Delhi (nine times class. the incident, the report said. "After coming back from work, they found the door locked from inside, and had Indian origin techie sentenced to 9 Indian origin Members of International to break open the lock to get in. To their shock, they found him hanging from the years for sexual assault inside Movie Piracy Ring Indicted in Scheme ceiling," said Prasad Sreedharan, a social worker affiliated with a medical airplane to Steal and Sell Pre-Release committee recently constituted by the Consulate General of India in Dubai. WASHINGTON (TIP): An Indian IT professional was sentenced to Hollywood Films and TV Shows Vellaloor was the general secretary of nine years of imprisonment on Thursday,December 14, on charges of Yulan Kala Sahiti and team leader of the a "brazen sexual assault" against a fellow female passenger inside a LOS ANGELES (TIP): A federal grand jury , on December 12, Friends Cricket Association. commercial airplane earlier this year. indicted five men in four countries on federal charges alleging they "He regularly organized blood donation Prabhu Ramamoorthy, 35, who came to the US on an H-1B visa in distributed or offered for sale stolen digital versions of hundreds of camps in RAK. The Ministry of Health and 2015, will be deported after he serves his sentence, a federal court in motion pictures and television shows - including "Fifty Shades of Prevention had honored him in 2016 with a Detroit said as it sentenced the Indian national to nine years of Grey," "The Expendables 3" and "The Walking Dead" - prior to their certificate of appreciation and memento imprisonment. official release. for the humanitarian act," Sreedharan Judge Terrence Berge hoped it would be grave enough to deter According to the indictment filed this afternoon in United States said. others from committing similar crimes. Federal prosecutors had District Court, members of the hacking conspiracy broke into "He contributed Rs 400,000 to the family sought 11 years of imprisonment for Ramamoorthy. computer systems used by Hollywood film production companies of an Indian worker who was paralyzed "Everyone has the right to be secure and safe when they travel on and stole digital files, including feature films, trailers, television and then died in a road accident here in airplanes. We will not tolerate the behavior of anyone who takes series episodes and audio tracks. The ring allegedly put the stolen RAK in 2017," he said. advantage of victims who are in a vulnerable position. We appreciate files on a server in France, which contained more than 25,000 Vellaloor sent his family to India three the victim in this case for her courage to speak out," US Attorney motion picture-related files, including the feature films "Godzilla," years ago and was staying with two of his Matthew Schneider said after the sentencing was announced. "How to Train Your Dragon 2" and "Horrible Bosses 2." friends in a villa behind the RAK Ramamoorthy was convicted in August after a five-day trial that The defendants also illicitly acquired copies of films by other immigration department. was conducted before United States District Judge Terrence Berg. The means, including recording cinema screenings and obtaining His body has been shifted to the morgue jury deliberated approximately three-and-a-half hours before copies of motion pictures distributed to movie industry at the Ibrahim Bin Obaidulla Hospital and returning the guilty verdict. professionals, according to the indictment, which outlines criminal the repatriation process will be initiated According to the evidence presented at the trial, on January 3, conduct beginning in early 2013 and continuing into the spring of shortly, said Nisham Noorudheen, Ramamoorthy had engaged in a sexual act with a female, while she 2015. president RAK Indian Relief Committee was sleeping on a flight from Las Vegas to Detroit. Ramamoorthy was Once they obtained the movies and other content, the defendants (IRC). (Source: PTI) seated along with his wife, when he sexually assaulted his co- allegedly altered the properties of the computer files to make them passenger. During the trial, the government admitted evidence easier to distribute online. According to the indictment, they Indian arrested on demonstrating that Ramamoorthy had digitally penetrated the offered the stolen motion picture files for sale via private electronic woman sleeping next to him during the overnight flight. The sexual communications, but they also uploaded stolen movies onto pirate charges of smuggling assault woke her up, she found her pants unbuttoned and unzipped, movie websites. The defendants used a shared PayPal account to and sought help from the flight attendants. receive and distribute money from the sale of the pirated motion foreign nationals into US The sentence was proof that the safety and security of all aircraft pictures, the indictment states. passengers was a priority for the FBI, said Timothy R Slater, Special In February 2015, one of the defendants allegedly told a WASHINGTON (TIP): A 38-year-old Agent in Charge, Detroit Division of the FBI. prospective buyer that the ring would be offering copies of the films Indian national has been arrested on In recent years, a number of Indian nationals have been arrested or "Kingsman: The Secret Service" and "Fifty Shades of Grey" for sale charges of smuggling foreign nationals charged with sexual assaults inside a plane. The FBI says airplane on the same day as their U.S. theatrical release. into the US for private financial gain, sexual assault is a serious offence that is on the rise. FBI statistics The defendants charged in the indictment are: according to Department of Justice. indicate that investigations of mid-air sexual assaults increased by 66 Malik Luqman Farooq, 30, a resident of the United Kingdom, who Bhavin Patel, is charged by indictment per cent from 2014 to 2017. That was in part due to increasingly allegedly sold more than a dozen stolen pre-release or with one count of conspiracy to bring in "cramped, confined spaces; alcohol and drugs; fewer flight attendants; contemporaneous-release films over a period of two years. Farooq and harbor aliens and six counts of and dark cabins on night flights"--factors that "likely embolden was previously arrested by the City of London Police on related smuggling foreign nationals into the US offenders"--the FBI said in a recent report. The cramped style of charges and is awaiting trial in the United Kingdom. via commercial airline flights, New Jersey airplane seating can exacerbate trauma for victims. According to Aditya Raj, believed to reside in India, who allegedly released US Attorney Craig Carpenito said on mental health professionals, victims who are violated in confined pirated movies on the internet and helped arrange for the Monday,December 10. (Read full story on spaces feel even more helpless, vulnerable and powerless. camcording of various films in India. www.theindianpanorama.news) Read full story on www.theindianpanorama.news Read full story on www.theindianpanorama.news THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 ADVERTISEMENT 5 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 6 NY/NJ/CT FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 The Gateway Program: a comprehensive rail investment program

NEW YORK (TIP): The Gateway Program, one of the most urgent infrastructure programs in the country, is a comprehensive rail investment program that would improve current services, add resiliency and create new capacity for a critical section of the Northeast Corridor (NEC) - the most heavily used passenger rail line in the country. The Gateway Program Development Corporation (GDC), a New Jersey not- for-profit entity, was established to oversee and deliver the Gateway Program, with support from federal and local partner agencies. The NEC is the most heavily used passenger rail line in the U.S., with more than 2,000 trains per day carrying approximately 800,000 daily riders across eight states and Washington D.C. It serves a region that is home to 17 percent of The Gateway Tunnel Proposed Hudson Tunnel the U.S. population and 97 Fortune 500 company headquarters, The Hudson Tunnel Project is currently in the and an area that contributes 20 percent of the national GDP. environmental review process, and includes two components: The NEC is a vital artery in the region and a critical element the construction of a new two-track Hudson River rail tunnel of the national transportation network, linking millions of from New Jersey to Manhattan that will directly serve PSNY; people to good jobs, and connecting this region with the rest of and the rehabilitation of the 108-year old, existing North River the country. Tunnel, which incurred serious damage during Superstorm The Gateway Program would maintain resiliency and Sandy in 2012. increase capacity along a 10-mile stretch of the NEC between The Hudson Tunnel Project would complete and make use of Newark, New Jersey and Pennsylvania Station in New York the concrete casing on the West Side of Manhattan that is City (PSNY), a section of the NEC that handles approximately preserving right-of-way for the future tunnel to PSNY 450 trains per day and over 200,000 daily Amtrak and NJ ("Hudson Yards Concrete Casing" or "Hudson Yards Box"). Existing Hudson River Tunnel TRANSIT passengers, and directly serves PSNY - the busiest The North River Tunnel is a critical link in the region's rail station in America. This segment of the NEC includes the track fixed span. The new bridge will increase rail transit trans-Hudson commuting system, and the Hudson River North River Tunnel under the Hudson River, which has capacity by an estimated 11%, and significantly improve Tunnel Project is urgently needed. A closure of just one tube deteriorated due to age, intensive use, and damage sustained service reliability by replacing the movable span, which could reduce capacity by as much as 75%, and force tens of from saltwater exposure during Superstorm Sandy in 2012. interrupts operations and is prone to mechanical failures, and thousands of commuters and travelers into other modes of The Gateway Program's Phase 1 is currently underway and is the current cause of frequent delays. The Project is fully travel, pushing them on to already congested bridges, tunnels includes two projects: the Portal North Bridge Project and the designed and permitted. Early construction work began in and streets in both states. The resulting congestion would lead Hudson Tunnel Project. Each is vital to the functioning of the Fall 2017. to massive degradation of air quality throughout the region, NEC and addresses single points of failure that can have On June 29, 2018, an updated financial plan reflecting with the movement of people and goods to and from the catastrophic impacts to the region's economy and changes to the local funding structure for the Portal North nation's largest regional economy becoming severely environment. Bridge project was submitted to the Federal Transit constrained. When complete, the Project would allow for the The Portal North Bridge Project Administration (FTA). The updated plan was submitted by NJ rehabilitation of the North River Tunnel without disrupting TRANSIT, the Project Sponsor, on behalf of GDC and the existing levels of train service and provide redundant The Portal North Bridge Project will replace the current, project partners. It includes New Jersey's investment of up to capability and increased operational flexibility for Amtrak functionally obsolete Portal Bridge - a century-old two-track, $600 million funded through state-appropriation backed bonds, and NJ TRANSIT. railroad swing bridge spanning the Hackensack River between capital funding from the NJ Transportation Trust Fund and Read full story on www.theindianpanorama.news Secaucus and Kearny,New Jersey - with a new, high-level, two- other existing local sources. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 NY/NJ/CT 7 MUSIC TO TRANSFORM THE WORLD Ashok Parulekar and Nayana Hein NEW YORK (TIP): The music we play can help transform the world . A new hour-long film, Eternal Journey, by India's renowned violinist Dr. L. Subramaniam, premiered recently for a select audience at the Harbor Grand Studio in New York. In this captivating film, across time and space, Dr. Subramaniam and the late composer and musician Sri Chinmoy engage in profound musical conversation. Sri Chinmoy and Dr. L. Subramaniam had a close friendship founded on their mutual love of music. "We must play together," Sri Chinmoy remarked at what would prove to be their last meeting together in 2006. However, that was not to transpire before Sri Chinmoy passed away the following year. Maestro Subramaniam did not forget Sri Chinmoy's intriguing comment, and it inspired him to put together a cinematic and musical tour de force. In "Eternal Journey", video recordings taken of Sri Chinmoy during his lifetime, in which he plays on the esraj, cello, vibraphone and Western flute, are :Premik ( Russel Tubbs) and L. Subramanium two leading musicians and eternal friends at the Sri Chinmoy composed over 22,000 hauntingly seamlessly 'answered' by Dr. Subramaniam on premium of the film Eternal Journey in New York. soulful songs the violin. In one remarkable section they Symphony Orchestra, and the Oslo offered well over 700 Peace Concerts at such Says Dr. Subramaniam: "Music is a vast appearalmost to be playing together, Philharmonic. He has composed the film venues as London's Royal Albert Hall, New ocean, and no one can claim to know it all. The simultaneously. scores for the films "Salaam Bombay" (1988) York's Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center's more you know,the more you realize how little Dr. Subramaniam is celebrated worldwide and "Mississippi Masala" (1991) directed by Avery Fisher Hall, Alice Tully Hall and you know. It is an eternal quest." for the diversity of his contribution to the Mira Nair, in addition to being the featured Damrosch Amphitheater, Tokyo's Nippon Juxtaposing the past and the present, L. world of music. He is an authority on the violin soloist in Bernardo Bertolucci's "Little Budokan, the Kamakura Daibutsu, the Subramaniam and Sri Chinmoy defy the finite classical Carnatic tradition and Western Buddha" (1993) and "Cotton Mary" (1999) of Sydney Opera House, the Sorbonne in Paris, to embark on an eternal journey through classical music, and acclaimed for his violin Merchant-Ivory productions. and the United NationsHeadquarters, to name music and film. virtuosity and compositions in orchestral Sri Chinmoy composed over 22,000 just a few. It is expected that "Eternal Journey" will be fusion. L. Subramaniam is an accomplished hauntingly soulful songs and offered profound "Through music individuals can sometimes made available for a wide audience some time composer and conductor, and he has inner peace though his music. "Music is a find something to share, something in in 2019. performed with such notable orchestras as the universal language," Sri Chinmoy said. "It is common, and thus begin to build a feeling of For more information see srichinmoy.org Beijing Symphony Orchestra, the Berlin State through music that one might have the oneness in the heart and in the world," Opera, the New York Philharmonic Orchestra capacity to express the sublime." Performing explained Sri Chinmoy. "Through music we Ashok Parulekar Mob 917 815 2887 (USA) or 91 99 70730161(India) (conducted by Zubin Mehta), the London his own music compositions, Sri Chinmoy can expand ourselves." Indian Overseas Congress, FIA Adds New Trustees USA applauds Congress to the FIA Board victory in Assembly elections NEW YORK (TIP): 'People of India have spoken once again through the ballot box, and the message has been sent loud and clear that they are simply unhappy with the direction of the country under the stewardship of Prime Minister Modi. He has become a man of hollow promises, and unfulfilled pledges to the people of India ' said George Abraham, Vice- Chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress, USA. 'What happened to the grandiose promises on youth unemployment, farmer's distress, and rural development? On all those scores, BJP has failed miserably. Ordinary people are interested in improving their lives and their family's lives and less interested in dividing people based on religion and caste or focusing their energy on temple building' Jayesh Patel, FIA President 2005, and Ankur Vaidya, 2 term FIA President 2014 & 2015 have been Abraham added. IOC congratulates Rahul Gandhi for inducted into the FIA Board of Trustees. Photos / Courtesy Paresh Gandhi his stellar leadership and round the clock IOC congratulates Rahul Gandhi for his campaigning that has made an enormous difference stellar leadership and round the clock in these state elections. EDISON, NJ (TIP): The Annual General body meeting of the Federation of Indian campaigning that has made an enormous difference in these state Congress Party needs to be cautious as well no to Associations (Tri-State) was held on Wed, December 5th, 2018 at the Royal Alberts Palace, elections. read too much into these results considering the anti- Edison, NJ. The Agenda included the overall performance and activities of FIA during the year incumbency factors in those 3 States as the party 2018, announcement of the executive team of 2019. appears to be on the eve of forming the governments, nevertheless, these victories would The Federation of Indian Associations expanded their Board of Trustees for the first time undoubtedly rejuvenate the Congress loyalists at the grass root level for the upcoming National since the formation of the Board of Trustees (BOT) and inducted two new trustees expanding election in 2019. As Rahul Gandhi spoke in the post-election press conference, it is a victory for it to a 15-member body. the Congress worker who has neither given up on the values and principles of the party nor lost The announcement was made by Secretary of Board of Trustees (BOT), Chandrakant hope on the Nehruvian vision for the country. Trivedi who read the process and the conclusion of the induction nomination that announced In over four years under the Modi rule, the country has gone through a disastrous two FIA veterans into the Trustee board which was supported by Chairman Ramesh Patel demonetization process, a messy GST implementation, corruption at the highest levels and nominating their induction. crony capitalism in its worst form. The institutions which guarded the democracy and freedom Jayesh Patel, FIA President 2005, with ties and affiliations with numerous organizations as since independence for its citizens are under assault and in steep decline. The recent well as Ankur Vaidya, 2 term FIA President 2014 & 2015, 9-year FIA veteran, both active developments with RBI and CBI speak a volume of government interference that may have community leaders were inducted into the FIA Board of Trustees. undermined the independence of these revered Institutions. Congress party is also urged to The two join the elite FIA Board of Trustees which comprises of community stalwarts like build the grass root support that would be critical in winning the upcoming national election Chairman Ramesh Patel, Padma Shri H R Shah, Padma Shri Dr. Sudhir Parikh, Mr. Albert and IOC believes that only Congress party could unite the country and put it back on track for Jasani, Mr. Bipin Patel, Mr. Kanu Chauhan, Mr. Ram Gadhavi, Mr. Chandrakant Trivedi, Dr. peace, security and inclusive development for all its citizens. Pravin Pandhi, Mr. Prabir Roy, Mr.Dipak Patel, Mr. Yash Paul Soi & Mr. Jagdish Patel. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 8 EDITORIAL FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 COMMENT AS I SEE IT Prof I.S.Saluja Keep the Pakistan door ajar Not Much India needs to be cautious, but should not completely shut itself to talks “Imran Khan has reached out to India, urging the resumption of for Congress dialogue and India's participation at SAARC summit in Islamabad. Our standard reply 'talks and terrorism can't go together' is not endorsed internationally and conveys rigidity. It to Feel By G Parthasarathy needs to be nuanced", says the author.

Elated About akistan's sudden decision to open the Kartarpur shrine for Indian pilgrims Recent Assembly election Ppredictably raised suspicions in India. wins may not replicate Pakistan had earlier opened other Sikh holy shrines, like Gurdwara Nankana Sahib and he recent Assembly elections in Dera Sahib Gurdwara in Lahore, under a India in which the Congress bilateral agreement. The decision to open the TParty wrested three Hindi Kartarpur shrine, located virtually on the heartland States from BJP should India-Pakistan border, was, however, alarm the BJP. However, the Congress conveyed 'informally' by Pakistan's army Party had better not have the chief Gen Bajwa to Punjab's tempestuous misconception that it is their victory. minister, Navjot Sidhu. Interestingly, General In fact, the BJP lost to Congress in Bajwa's sudden interest was manifested Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and much after repeated requests by Indian Chhattisgarh because it failed to come leaders, including former PM Vajpayee, were up to the expectations of people who ignored. were desperate to get rid of a non- This unusual action by Pakistan's army performing government. They chief raised hackles in New Delhi, as the rejected the BJP. Since there was no Pakistan army controls the gurdwaras there other choice for people in these States through the Pakistani Gurudwara Prabandak which do not have regional parties, Committee. This committee's first head was Imran Khan has reached out to India. The opportunity should not be lost they voted or Congress Party. Where former ISI chief, Lt Gen Javed Nasir, the there was a regional party, as in mastermind of the 1993 Mumbai blasts. and economic aid for Pakistan. Pakistan's India. It pays us richly to expose ordinary Telangana, or in Mizoram, voters 'Khalistani' flags are often provocatively finance minister Asad Umar recently Pakistanis to realities in contemporary rejected both the BJP and the raised during visits of Sikh pilgrims from proclaimed: 'Right now, we have a $18 billion India. We need to welcome exchanges of Congress. India. They are also constantly sought to be deficit and $9 billion of debt repayment due visits by students, academics, business These results are not likely to incited by specially invited 'Khalistani' this year, which brings the total to $27 organizations, cultural troupes and those replicate in other Assembly elections activists from countries like Canada, the US billion... we cannot afford that.' with familial ties. or in Parliamentary elections. In large and the UK. Obviously, the ISI is now again Imran Khan has reached out to India, There also has to be firmness and realism States, like Bihar and UP (Hindi looking to fish in troubled waters in Punjab, urging the resumption of dialogue and India's in dealing with the Pakistan military heartland again), there are so many evident from the recent terrorist strike in participation at SAARC summit in Islamabad. establishment. Pakistan has to be told bluntly regional parties who have in the past Amritsar and the continuing smuggling of Our standard reply 'talks and terrorism can't that it has rendered SAARC non-functional given ample evidence of their sway narcotics across the border. go together' is not endorsed internationally and SAARC Free Trade Agreement over voters. The BJP which won a These developments took place when PM and conveys rigidity. It needs to be nuanced. meaningless by its restrictions on Indian landslide in Parliamentary elections in Imran Khan was engaged in organizing Detailed 'back-channel' negotiations after the exports and by denial of transit to UP will have a lot to worry, going by its countrywide celebrations for his first JeM attack on our Parliament, resulted in an Afghanistan. Not just India, Bangladesh and performance in the 3 States it recently hundred days in office. Contrary to his agreement in which General Musharraf Afghanistan should also have reservations on lost. It is not the Congress Party which expectations, his first hundred days have been assured Vajpayee that 'territory under the next summit being hosted in Pakistan. will pose a threat to BJP; it is the marked by a less than satisfactory Pakistan's control' would not be used for Moreover, Pakistan wastes time and resources regional parties in these two States performance in fulfilling the expectations he terrorism against India. Pakistan abided by in pushing for China, which is not a South which have a large number of had raised. This happened despite being the that assurance till 2007. The Composite Asian country, to be admitted to SAARC. This Parliamentary seats. In fact, for both blue-eyed boy of the army, which had Dialogue Process also resumed on all issues, is a proposal India will not accept. We need the national parties, real threat comes facilitated his election as Prime Minister. including Kashmir. There was progress, based not, therefore, be in a hurry to respond from regional parties. Congress will be Pakistan's foreign exchange reserves have on PM Manmohan Singh's offer that while positively to Imran Khan's call for an early handicapper in asking for a bigger reached the perilously low level of $8 billion. 'borders can't be redrawn', we can work summit. slice of seats when it sits down with With the country expecting to have a further towards making them 'irrelevant' by making Apart from reaching out to people, back- the partners in alliance which include $12 billion trade deficit in the current them 'just lines on a map'. The 26/11 attacks channel contacts - free from the glare of all kinds of regional parties- BSP,SP in financial year, Pakistan had to go with bended ended it. publicity - between diplomats, army officials UP, and RJD and other outfits in Bihar. knees to its past financial mentors - Saudi Pakistan would like to resume the and intelligence agencies are essential to deal What the Congress Party need to Arabia, China, US, EU, UAE and IMF - for a Composite Dialogue Process. This should be with terrorism and bilateral cooperation, focus on is good governance which bailout. rejected as terrorism is accorded a low while at the same time, maintaining pressure means taking care of the people. May The Saudis were not quite as generous as priority.This does not mean that India should to respond to challenges of terrorism. With be, the performance of Congress they have been in the past. On offer was a cut off all diplomatic contacts with Pakistan. the snows closing the passes, cross-border governments as people-friendly short-term deposit of $3 billion in a Pakistani It is essential that we stand firm on refusing to terrorism in the Valley falls. Imran Khan has governments in the freshly acquired bank and a similar offer of petroleum under a discuss J&K unless the sponsorship of shown some readiness to consider moving States will send a message to other short-term, deferred payment arrangement. terrorism ends. forward on proposals to address the J&K States and people will regain their lost The IMF imposed strict conditionalities, But we go wrong by equating the priorities issue, on lines akin to what happened in 2004- faith in the Congress Party. It alone including asking for details of repayment of the Pakistan army,with the interest about 2007, when terrorism was minimal. We can, can revive the Congress Party. It alone liabilities on Chinese loans for CPEC. India across wide sections of ordinary however, address major issues only after the can make once again Congress Yukt Negotiations with the IMF are presently on Pakistanis. Vajpayee's directive on liberal general election. But we should spare no effort Bharat, as against Congress mukt hold. Pakistan's expectations of long-term, issue of visas, particularly to Mohajirs in to raise the costs of sponsoring terrorism for Bharat. low-interest/interest-free credits from China Karachi and urban Sind, produced dramatic the military establishment of Pakistan. were not fulfilled. The US has ended military results in changing public opinion about (The author is a former diplomat) THE INDIAN PANORAMA PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER: Prof. Indrajit S. Saluja Mohammad Shahzad, Zia Khan DELHI BUREAU CHIEF: Ashishpal Singh E-mail [email protected]; Phone: 646-247-9458 VICE PRESIDENT: Chitagam Saluja Nisha Rani CHANDIGARH: Manjit Sidhu www.theindianpanorama.news CHIEF EDITOR: Prof Indrajit S. Saluja Vaaho Photographers LUDHIANA: A.S. Arora, R.P.Sharma Published by Prof. Indrajit Saluja ASSISTANT EDITOR: Bidisha Roy Vijay Shah -Photo Journalist. GRAPHICS DIRECTOR: Om Parkash Malik DISTRIBUTOR : Sukhwinder Singh The Indian Panorama DIRECTOR ADMINISTRATION: Gauri Beri CORRESPONDENTS : P.O. Box No. 190067, South Richmond Hill, NY 11419, DISCLAIMER CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: SACRAMENTO: Parminder S. Aujla Tel: 646-247-9458 The Indian Panorama assumes no responsibility for the Baldev Singh / BJ Videos NEW YORK : Chitagam Email: [email protected] claims made in advertisements. We only sell space. Views published in the newspaper are those of the authors and do Gunjesh Desai / Masala Junction FRESNO: Tarlochan Singh DALLAS EDITION not necessarily reflect the views of the newspaper. All rights Jay Mandal, DALLAS: Harjit Dhesi, Amarjit Dhillon P.O. BOX 121695, ARLINGTON, TX 76012 are reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without Mohammad Jaffer/ SnapsIndia OVERSEAS CORRESPONDENTS Lovllien Kaurr, VP & Bureau Chief permission in writing from The Indian Panorama is prohibited. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 PERSPECTIVE 9 India awakened, democracy restored

By Mike Ghouse

If Congress were to wins elections in 2019, the BJP tsunami of good news has just hit men and women who went to jail and took the the kids to work with others, many of them supporters will go India, five of the 29 states of India held beatings but chose to fight for freedom. They wish they did not have such ugly parents. I Athe elections in December 2018, and not only got the freedom but set up great urge the Indian Americans not to poison their ballistic against the produced amazing results, and the winner is institutions for India. Today India is among kids, the kids have sixty to seventy years to the Indian Democracy. the top 7 powerful nations, and the credit goes live, let them decide whom to love or hate elected Parties come and go, but what is constant is to Gandhi, Nehru, Azad, Patel, Ambedkar and based on their personal experience and not our freedom. Freedom to speak, freedom to a few others who had the vision and laid the prejudice. government and prosper, and freedom to marry whom you foundation of a great nation. The Law of Karma does not spare anyone. want, eat what you want, drink what appeals Whether you align with BJP, INC or other Modi's arrogance will bring him down in 2019. to you, wear what works for you, and believe parties, you have the freedom to speak and He has got to stop bullshitting Indians with that is the time whatever the hell suits you. prosper because the foundation of our nation Congress party was laid out on the principles of Democracy. Two BJP contestants in two Whether you align with BJP, We cannot let anyone curb those freedoms, the states, a Minister for Cow INC or other parties, you media needs to be free and people need to free. needs to show its I admire Modi's supporters in America and Welfare and Minister for have the freedom to speak their loyalty. I wish they show the same Happiness lost the elections civility, and they and prosper because the devotion to India by respecting every Indian without prejudice. badly. This is a major loss will, as they have foundation of our nation Do you recall a tyrant grandfather or even a and a clear signal to the was laid out on the father, who is all about control, he claims to live a simple life, but wants to keep everyone party that Indians cannot a proven record. principles of Democracy. under his thumb? Our Prime Minister, under be fooled over and over We cannot let anyone curb the guise of Sanyasi (hermit), claims that he again with the issue of cow Unlike our Goonga those freedoms, the media has nothing to gain and wants nothing. How does he account for enriching his friends? or the building of a temple. Prime Minister, the needs to be free and people Would a Sanyasi do that? need to free. We cannot blame Modi for who he is, he is issues that don't put food on their tables or Congress Prime conditioned by the RSS schools where they clothe their kids or have clean drinking water. teach exclusive ideology and disrespect to Let him make one promise and keep rather I am sure no Indian wants someone to tell others who do not think like them. A majority than make ten and cheat. Minister will speak him or her how to live. The BJP followers will of Hindus innocently believe that RSS is a All of us want the best for fellow humans not like what the Congress may tell them to service organization but fail to see the poison including Modi. Mr. Modi can make a out against anyone do, and the same is true the other way around. it injects into the innocent children. I wish comeback in 2024 if he turns BJP into a party The durable policy is to follow the principles Modi frees himself from the petty Hindutva where every Indian, be it a Muslim, Sikh, calling the BJP of freedom. ideology and becomes an all-embracing leader Christian or Dalit wants to become a member Modi has time to show that he really and a giant like Nehru. of his party. He has got to do his praischit supporters anti- believes in Democracy and is not I pray that a handful of right-leaning Hindu (repentance) for quietly letting a few goons to authoritarian. He can do that by initiating Americans fight their temptations to support go on a killing spree in 2001. Indians will National or anti- three national awards; Patriotic Citizen, the forces in India who want to deny the forgive him if seeks forgiveness. Hinduism is Patriotic Media and National Chamcha freedoms to 'other' Indians. Their American not a religion of violence or revenge, it is not Award. The award goes to those individuals born children think they are stupid to have about forcing others to eat, drink or believe Hindu. No one is and News Media who relentlessly criticize the such hatred towards the other. against their will. It Hinduism is not a violent government to keep them on their toes, and A young Hindu Medical doctor doing his religion, then the moderate Hindus have an anti-National or National Chamcha Award goes to the residency stayed with me for a month while obligation to protect the image of Hinduism individuals who consistently equate support attending a conference in Washington DC. We and not let the Hindutva guys tarnish it. anti-Hindu, it is the for Government as a Patriotic act. A true had terrific conversations on a daily basis. He Indians are good people, they are as good as patriot would hold the feet of the government wished his parents had the opportunity to gold. They are clamoring for a leader who can wild imagination of to the fire rather than do the chamchagiri and know Muslims, Christians, Dalits, Sikhs, and bring jobs and don't want to be fooled again. let the country make mistake after mistake. the Blacks. He deplored their hatred towards Two BJP contestants in two states, a If Congress were to wins elections in 2019, them. He said, he has lived in the dorms, and Minister for Cow Welfare and Minister for fanatics among BJP the BJP supporters will go ballistic against everything they have said about others was Happiness lost the elections badly. This is a the elected government and that is the time wrong. major loss and a clear signal to the party that to sow the seeds of Congress party needs to show its civility, and There are parents out there who are selfish Indians cannot be fooled over and over again they will, as they have a proven record. and poison their kids by injecting ill-will with the issue of cow or the building of a discord. Unlike our Goonga Prime Minister, the towards others. Some Hindu parents tell their temple. Congress Prime Minister will speak out kids how bad Muslims, Christians and Sikhs (The author is a public speaker and the against anyone calling the BJP supporters are and vice versa goes as well, they even Executive Director of the Center for Pluralism anti-National or anti-Hindu. No one is anti- believe Dalits are untouchables. The dumb in Washington, DC. He is committed to National or anti-Hindu, it is the wild men (women are not as hateful) don't realize building cohesive societies and offers imagination of fanatics among BJP to sow the that when the kids grow up in America, they pluralistic solutions on issues of the day. seeds of discord. have to work with the very people they were More about him at I am proud of India's freedom and salute the told to stay away from. It must be painful for https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeghouse/) THE INDIAN PANORAMA 10 SOUTH ASIA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 Sri Lankan Parliament dissolution Saudi package would be ‘biggest ‘unconstitutional’, rules Supreme Court foreign investment’ in history: COLOMBO (TIP): The Sri Lankan Supreme Court on Thursday ruled that Pakistan finance minister President Maithripala Sirisena’s decision to dissolve the Parliament 20 months before the end of its term was “unconstitutional”. A Saudi Arabia announced to provide cash-strapped Pakistan $3 seven-member apex court bench said that the President cannot dissolve Parliament until it billion in balance of payment support and additionally give oil completes a four-and-a-half year term, the Colombo Gazette reported. worth $3 billion on deferred payment. The ruling comes as a double blow to Sirisena a day after Prime Minister Ranil ISLAMABAD (TIP): Pakistan’s Wickremesinghe proved his majority in Finance Minister Asad Umar said Parliament, with 117 out of 225 lawmakers Thursday that an incoming investment voting to pass a confidence motion in his package from Saudi Arabia would be leadership. Rajapaksa has so far failed to “the biggest foreign investment” in the prove his majority in Parliament. country’s history. The announcement The island nation plunged into political of the package will be made following crisis after Sirisena removed PM a cabinet approval next week, the Wickremesinghe on October 26 and Dawn reported. appointed former president Mahinda “The ball is in our court. We have to Rajapaksa in his place. When it appeared that get cabinet approval next week, after Rajapaksa would not be able to muster the which an announcement will be support of the majority in the Parliament, made,” the paper quoted Umar as Sirisena dissolved the House on November 9 saying at an event in Islamabad. and called for a snap election on January 5. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have been As many as 13 petitions had been filed in talks recently over a bailout against Sirisena’s dissolution of the package for Islamabad. Parliament. However, in an interim order on At a time when various foreign November 13, the Supreme Court ruled countries and business delegations Sirisena’s gazette notification as temporarily were pulling out of an investment illegal and halted the preparations for snap conference in Saudi after the murder polls. of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Sirisena has said that he had always taken Kingdom’s consulate in Istanbul, decisions in the best interest of the country Prime Minister Imran Khan attended India's negative attitude unhelpful in improving ties: and the people. He had also said that he the event, inviting foreign investors to would honour the court’s decision. (Express put their money into projects in Pakistan Foreign Secretary desk) Pakistan. ISLAMABAD (TIP): Accusing India of perpetuating "dynamic rivalry", Pakistan Foreign Saudi Arabia announced to provide Secretary Tehmina Janjua has said New Delhi's negative attitude was not only unhelpful for Scores of migrant girls cash-strapped Pakistan $3 billion in improving bilateral ties, but was also stopping South Asia from making progress and attaining peace. balance of payment support and Speaking at a conference on 'Conflict and Cooperation in South Asia: Role of Major Powers' hosted quietly vanishing from additionally give oil worth $3 billion by the Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI), Janjua said that India, by refusing to attend the on deferred payment after Prime South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) summit in Islamabad, was holding the Indonesia Minister Khan met Saudi King Salman regional body's summit process hostage. Referring to India's approach on ties with Pakistan, Janjua in Riyadh October. (PTI) said India was "spinning hatred" and perpetuating "dynamic rivalry", according to Dawn newspaper. FATUKOKO (TIP): The stranger showed up at the girl’s door one night with a tantalizing job offer: Give up your world, and I will give you a future. It was a chance for 16-year-old Marselina Neonbota to leave her isolated village in one Malaysian ex-PM Najib Razak slapped of the poorest parts of Indonesia for neighbouring Malaysia, where some migrant workers can earn more in a few years than in with new charge over 1MDB scandal a lifetime at home. A way out for a girl so hungry for a life beyond subsistence farming KUALA LUMPUR (TIP): Former that she walked 22 kilometres (14 miles) Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak was every day to the schoolhouse and back. charged Wednesday with tampering with the She grabbed the opportunity — and final audit report into a defunct state disappeared. investment fund, adding to a long list of The cheerful child known to her family as corruption allegations against him since his Lina joined the army of Indonesians who ouster in May elections. migrate every year to wealthier countries in Najib was charged along with Arul Kanda Asia and the Middle East for work. Kandasamy, the former head of the 1MDB Thousands come home in coffins, or vanish. fund, which is being investigated in the US Among them, possibly hundreds of trafficked and other countries for alleged cross-border girls have quietly disappeared from the embezzlement and money laundering. impoverished western half of Timor island Najib pleaded not guilty to abusing power and elsewhere in Indonesia’s East Nusa to order the modification of the report in Tenggara province. The National Agency for February 2016 before it was presented to the Placement and Protection of Indonesian Public Accounts Committee, in order to Workers has counted more than 2,600 cases of protect himself from disciplinary and legal dead or missing Indonesian migrants since action. Kandasamy, who was detained 2014. And even those numbers mostly leave overnight by anti-graft officials, pleaded not out people like Lina who are recruited guilty to abetting Najib. illegally — an estimated 30 per cent of The charges came after the auditor-general the fund amassed billions in debts. U.S. from Britain in 1957. Indonesia’s 6.2 million migrant workers. revealed last month that some details had investigators say Najib’s associates stole and The new government reopened the On that night in 2010, Lina didn’t seem to been removed from the 1MDB report. laundered $4.5 billion from the fund, investigations stifled under Najib’s rule. sense the danger posed by the stranger Kandasamy led 1MDB from 2015 until he was including some that landed in Najib’s bank Najib, his wife and several top-ranking former named Sarah. But Lina’s great-aunt and terminated in June. The two men were account. government officials have been charged with great-uncle, who had raised her, were released on bail, and face up to 20 years in Public anger over the scandal led to the multiple counts of corruption, criminal hesitant. Sarah insisted they could trust her; prison if found guilty. defeat of Najib’s long-ruling coalition in May breach of trust and money laundering. she was related to the village chief. And Lina Najib set up 1MDB when he took power in 9 elections and ushered in the first change of Najib, 65, has accused the new government would only be gone two years. (AP) 2009 to promote economic development, but power since Malaysia gained independence of political vengeance. (AP) THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 ADVERTISEMENT 11 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 12 US FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 Senate votes to condemn Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as responsible for Khashoggi killing

WASHINGTON (TIP): The Senate cast two for the killing of Khashoggi, a Saudi national. historic votes Thursday, December 13, to end Pompeo has echoed Trump's stance in public U.S. participation in the Saudi-led war effort interviews, and behind closed doors as well, in Yemen and condemn the Saudi crown lawmakers said. prince as responsible for the killing of "All we heard today was more disgraceful journalist Jamal Khashoggi, delivering clear ducking and dodging by the secretary," said political rebukes of President Trump's Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-Tex.), who supports continued embrace of the kingdom. bringing up a War Powers resolution in the The unanimous vote to hold Crown Prince House to cut off U.S. support for the Saudis' Mohammed bin Salman responsible for Yemen war effort. On Wednesday, the House Khashoggi's murder reflects the extent to narrowly voted to block rank-and-file which senators of both parties have grown members from demanding a floor vote on any tired of Trump's continued defense of such Yemen resolution, after leaders slipped Mohammed's denials. It also puts significant in a rule change to do so into an unrelated pressure on leaders in the House - where the agricultural bill. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., joined at left by Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., holds a news conference president's Saudi policy is a much more House leaders also met with CIA director partisan issue - to allow members to cast a lawmakers see as out of control. chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Gina Haspel on Wednesday to hear the details similar vote condemning the crown prince "Today we tell the despotic regime in Saudi Committee, said after the briefing, referring of Khashoggi's slaying. But they emerged before the end of the year. Arabia that we will not be part of their to Mohammed and Saudi King Salman. offering few details about the briefing - or Regardless, the two Senate votes Thursday military adventurism," said Sen. Bernie But there remain Republicans in the House about what step House Democrats would take, set the stage for broader strategic debates Sanders (I-Vt.), who co-sponsored the Yemen who defend the crown prince - and those who once they assume the majority in January, to about Saudi policy when Congress regroups resolution with Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah). think that even if he should be called out for pursue more punitive measures against Saudi next year. "Today, for the first time, we are going to go his involvement in Khashoggi's death, the Arabia, beyond holding hearings. Just before the Senate voted to condemn forward .?.?. and tell the president of the punishment should stop there. In the Senate, meanwhile, both Republican Mohammed over Khashoggi's murder, United States, and any president … that the "We recognize killing journalists is and Democratic lawmakers are making plans senators voted 56-to-41 vote to end U.S. constitutional responsibility of making war absolutely evil and despicable, but to to capi-tal-ize on the Yemen resolution vote participation in the Saudi-led campaign in rests in the United States Congress, not the completely realign our interests in the Middle with further measures next year - including Yemen by invoking the War Powers White House." East as a result of this, when for instance the sanctions on Mohammed and the other Saudis Resolution - the first time a chamber of The votes came just hours after Secretary of Russians kill journalists .?.?. Turkey implicated in Khashoggi's killing, and an Congress has ever done so. State Mike Pompeo and Defense Secretary imprisons journalists?" Rep. Adam Kinzinger order to halt all nondefensive weapons More importantly, the 56-vote majority - a Jim Mattis briefed House lawmakers behind (R-Ill.) said. "It's not a sinless world out there." transfers to Saudi Arabia until hostilities in figure that includes seven Republicans - closed doors - a meeting from which That stands in sharp contrast to the Senate, Yemen cease. suggests that Saudi critics will still have a Republicans and Democrats emerged urging where several Republicans have been "The current relationship with Saudi majority next year to challenge Trump on very different responses to Saudi Arabia and encouraging a broad response to Saudi Arabia Arabia is not working for America," Sen. Saudi policy.Both Republicans and Democrats its crown prince. over not just Khashoggi's killing and the Lindsey O. Graham (R-S.C.) said Wednesday, have said they plan to pursue sanctions A recent CIA assessment found Mohammed Yemen war, but the Kingdom's blockade in in comments to reporters about what next against Saudi officials involved in was probably responsible for the killing of Qatar, its recent detainment of Lebanese steps senators planned to take to address Khashoggi's murder, to stop the transfer of Khashoggi, a Washington Post contributing Prime Minister Saad Hariri, and a slate of Saudi policy. "I'm never going to let this go nondefensive weapons until Saudi forces columnist, in a Saudi consulate in Istanbul on human rights abuses they say have until things change in Saudi Arabia."killing of withdraw from Yemen, and other measures to Oct. 2. "They have to be held responsible," Rep. compromised the U.S.-Saudi alliance. journalist Jamal Khashoggi. (Source: restrain a crown prince whom many Eliot L. Engel (D-N.Y.), the incoming Trump has refused to condemn Mohammed Agencies) Maria Butina pleads guilty to conspiring to act as a Russian agent

WASHINGTON (TIP): Maria Butina, a 30- Putin. Under his Torshin direction, the Ministry told reporters in Moscow again year-old Russian gun rights activist, has agreement said, she "sought to establish called for Butina's "soonest release from signed onto a plea agreement with the U.S. unofficial lines of communication with custody" and said the Russian government government, officially pivoting away from her Americans having power and influence over "will support any decision she might take months-long campaign to prove her innocence U.S. politics." aimed at her liberation." after standing accused of developing a covert As Butina prepared to change her plea "Once again, we demand that Washington influence operation in the United States. before a federal judge in Washington, DC, observe her lawful rights and ensure her As part of her plea deal, the details of Thursday morning, the judge confronted soonest release from custody," the which ABC News reported earlier this week, directly questions raised about the stark spokeswoman said, adding that whatever Butina agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy conditions of her confinement-which this decision Butina makes with her lawyers, "she and cooperate with federal, state and local week has brought a rebuke from the Russian would take them in order to be freed, authorities in any ongoing investigations. government. Butina's lawyer had complained considering that she is a political prisoner." ABC News reported earlier this week that, she was held alone in her cell for long Butina was arrested in Washington, DC, in as part of her deal, Butina admitted that she stretches and had little personal or sensory July on charges of conspiracy and failure to and an unnamed "U.S. Person 1," which contact. register as a foreign agent. Her indictment Maria Butina's booking photograph when she sources have identified as longtime The judge asked Butina and her attorney if attracted headlines at the time for salacious was admitted into the Alexandria Detention Republican operative Paul Erickson, with conditions had impaired her psychologically claims made by the government that she used Center August 17, 2018. whom she had a multiyear romantic to the point she had agreed to plead guilty. sex as part of an alleged effort to infiltrate Photo / courtesy Alexandria, Va. Sheriff's relationship, "agreed and conspired, with a "Is your mind clear?" the judge asked. powerful conservative groups and build Office Russian government official ("Russian "Absolutely clear," Butina replied in a firm relationships with prominent Americans, understanding of this particular text Official") and at least one other person, for voice. Driscoll told the court that while he drawing comparisons to the recent Hollywood conversation was mistaken," according to Butina to act in the United States under the remains concerned about the overuse of film, Red Sparrow, which focused on the court filings. direction of Russian Official without prior solitary confinement, he did not consider that seductive aspects of spycraft. Butina has been held in jail since her arrest notification to the Attorney General." a factor in her change of plea. But the government was later forced to back and indictment, with a federal judge claiming Based on the description, the "Russian "As of today, I believe she is doing well away from some of those allegations, in September that she "cannot imagine a Official" appears to be Alexander Torshin, mentally," Driscoll said. conceding that they were based on a scenario where it is not possible" that Butina deputy governor of the Russian Central Bank Ahead of Thursday's hearing, a misreading of a series of text messages. would flee the country if allowed out on bail. and a close ally of Russian President Vladimir spokeswoman with the Russian Foreign Prosecutors wrote that "the government's (Source: ABC News) THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 US 13 The First-Ever Diwali Fireworks Show in San Francisco Makes History: An estimated 10,000 people attend to usher in the Indian New Year

SAN FRANCISCO, CA(TIP): November from the event including the fireworks finale. Taj Mahal are committed to ensuring South Facebook page. Professional photos available 10th, 2018, marked a historic day as an estimated Sponsored by Brooke Bond Taj Mahal Tea Asian immigrants feel at home, no matter upon request. 10,000 excited children and nostalgic parents and produced by MIKADO International, the where they live, which is why we are thrilled to ABOUT BROOKE BOND TAJ MAHAL TEA came out to experience the first-ever Brooke day-long event was free and open to the public, have been able to provide the South Asian Bond Taj Mahal Diwali Day held at San thoughtfully curated for the entire family to community of the Bay Area with an authentic With over 50 years of experience, Brooke Francisco's iconic Pier 39 to commemorate enjoy in the celebrations. 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Brooke Bond Taj Mahal Tea celebration in India. the photo mosaic wall and participate in a meet says Sandrine Vohra, CEO of MIKADO ABOUT MIKADO INTERNATIONAL While fireworks are commonly associated and greet with celebrity Bollywood dancer International, a global multicultural with major U.S. holidays such as the 4th of July Manpreet Toor and comedian Rajiv Satyal. advertising agency. MIKADO International is a culture first and New Year's Eve, this was the first time they The much-anticipated fireworks display did "Representation matters. Who tells your story advertising agency that strives to create a were launched over the San Francisco Bay to not disappoint, lighting up the sky and the and how they communicate your message world more connected. Through opportunity celebrate Diwali. 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We at Brooke Bond fireworks display can be viewed on the event's MIKADO International. House Democrats to seek Trump tax returns: Pelosi U.S. Budget Deficit Hits WASHINGTON (TIP): A Reuter report voter base, but have also said they will not Widest on Record for has quoted Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi shy away from examining Trump, his as saying on Thursday, December 13, that personal business dealings and his Month of November members of congress from her party will presidency. seek to obtain President Donald Trump's tax Representative Bill Pascrell praised the U.S. ran largest fiscal gap in six returns when they take control of the U.S. plan to seek Trump's records. "I am House of Representatives in January - a confident we will have the will and the tools years in fiscal 2018 move the White House is likely to strongly to finally expose Trump's financial history WASHINGTON (TIP): Outlays jumped 18 resist. to sunlight," he said. The records would percent to $411 billion last month, while receipts The House Ways and Means Committee provide congressional investigators from were little changed at $206 billion, the Treasury will "take the first steps" toward obtaining various House committees with Department said in a monthly report on Thursday, the documents, said Pelosi, who has the information crucial to efforts to determine December 13. That left a $205 billion shortfall, backing of her members to become speaker if Trump's business generates conflicts of compared with a $139 billion gap a year earlier. of the House next month. As it is likely to be interest. Democrats have alleged Trump is The U.S. ran the largest deficit in six years in a challenging process, it will be up to the violating the U.S. Constitution's fiscal 2018, the first full year of Donald Trump's committee to figure out how to proceed, she emoluments clause, which bars presidents presidency when his Republican party enacted a said. "There is popular demand for the from receiving gifts of value from foreign tax-cut package and raised federal spending for the Congress to request the president's tax governments, citing Trump's continued military and other priorities. The measures have returns," she told reporters in the Capitol. ownership of hotels that foreign added to the growing federal deficit, which is "I'm sure the White House will resist and government delegations patronize. forecast to push past $1 trillion by 2020 when the so the question is where do we go from Trump denies ties to ex-lawyer Cohen's U.S. next holds presidential elections. there," she said. Trump defied decades of crimes In the first two months of the fiscal year that tradition when he refused to release his tax Democratic leaders on the House began Oct. 1, the gap widened to $305.4 billion, records as a candidate and after his victory Intelligence Committee have said Trump's compared with $201.8 billion the same period a in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. No law personal financial information would help year earlier. or rule compels a president or candidate to illuminate whether foreign leaders might Spending on Department of Defense military disclose their returns, but nearly every "There is popular demand for the Congress have leverage over the president. programs rose 18 percent in October and nominee and president has done so in recent to request the president's tax returns," Pelosi said committees will also take up November from the same two months a year Pelosi told reporters in the Capitol. decades. As they prepare to take over issues like healthcare and trade. earlier, while outlays for total interest on the majority control of the House, Democratic articulating their goals. They have said they The White House did not respond to a public debt jumped by 7 percent. (Source: leaders have tried to walk a fine line in plan to pursue policies popular with their request for comment. (Source: Reuters) Bloomberg) THE INDIAN PANORAMA 14 INDIA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Akali Dal rakes up 1984 against Kamal Nath’s appointment as Kamal Nath named chief Madhya Pradesh CM CHANDIGARH (TIP): With the Congress leadership minister of Madhya Pradesh finalising Kamal Nath’s name for the post of chief minister of Madhya Pradesh, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on Thursday accused the Gandhi family of “protecting the NEW DELHI (TIP): Senior Congress perpetrators” of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. leader Kamal Nath will be the next chief The Akali Dal alleges that Nath had a hand in the anti- minister of Madhya Pradesh, the party Sikh riots that broke out in the national capital following announced late on Thursday,Dec 13. The the assassination of Indira Gandhi in 1984. “Whenever the announcement came after a day of Gandhi family comes to power, it protects the perpetrators meetings between Congress chief Rahul of the 1984 riots. Now Rahul Gandhi and the Gandhi family Gandhi and the two contenders for the are rewarding Kamal Nath as chief minister of Madhya post in New Delhi. Jyotiraditya Scindia Pradesh...,” Akali Dal leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa told was the other front-runner. reporters. “Rahul Gandhi wants to give a message that those Nath is a nine-time Lok Sabha MP involved in the killings of Sikhs in 1984 now need not from Chhindwara constituency in worry... that they are behind them and will reward them Madhya Pradesh and is the state instead,” he added. president of the Congress. He succeeds “He (Kamal Nath) himself had agreed before the J Shivraj Singh Chouhan of the Bharatiya Ranganath Misra and J Nanawati commissions set up in Janata Party, which had been in power 1985 that on November 1, 1984, he was very much present on for 15 years. the premises of Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib when two Nath and Scindia had arrived in Delhi Sikhs were burnt to death,” said Sirsa. on Thursday to meet Rahul Gandhi at Sirsa said Kamal Nath’s presence at the gurdwara was his residence, where they remained till also confirmed by two senior government officers. He said late evening. They left for Bhopal around the then reporter of an English daily, Sanjay Suri, had 8 pm and said a decision would be Congress emerged the single-largest Congress Legislature Party meeting in reportedly seen Kamal Nath leading a mob. announced by night. party with 114 seats, while the BJP got Bhopal. The Congress high command A section of Sikhs had raised objections when Nath was As the suspense continued till late 109 – both parties were short of the was expected to decide the chief minister. appointed general secretary in-charge of Punjab and Thursday, Gandhi posted a tweet with a majority mark of 116. Mayawati’s Outgoing Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Haryana. While Nath continued to hold the charge for picture of himself flanked by Scindia Bahujan Samaj Party and the Chouhan did not stake claim to form the Haryana affairs, he was replaced in Punjab. and Nath, with a quote attributed to Leo Samajwadi Party have offered support to government, saying the BJP did not get a Meanwhile, Delhi BJP spokesperson Tajinder Singh Tolstoy: “The two most powerful the Congress, which will help them cross majority. After submitting his Bagga claimed the Congress is aware of Nath’s involvement warriors are patience and time.” the majority. resignation, he said he took full in the riots and that was why he was “removed” as the In an interview with The Indian Besides Madhya Pradesh, the Congress responsibility for his party’s loss. “I Punjab in-charge of the Congress before assembly elections Express published on Thursday, Nath won a clear majority in Chhattisgarh and worked tirelessly for the poor and in that state in 2017. He said Punjab chief minister had said the Congress will focus on was the single largest party in Rajasthan. farmers,” Chouhan said at a press Amarinder Singh should register his protest against the improving the state’s fiscal health and The party finished just two short of the conference on Wednesday. “I apologise if party’s decision to make Nath the Madhya Pradesh CM and exposing the prime minister for his majority mark, at 99, in Rajasthan, with I upset the people of Madhya Pradesh.” should resign if Rahul Gandhi does not agree to his demand. policies such as the Goods and Services the BJP winning 73 seats. In Chouhan said the BJP will be a strong Leader of opposition in the Punjab assembly Harpal Tax regime and demonetisation. Chhattisgarh, the Congress won 68 seats Opposition. “My job is to provide Singh Cheema on Thursday asked chief minister Capt Final results of the recently-held and the saffron party 15. constructive support, we now have the Amarinder to clarify his stand on Congress leader Kamal Assembly elections in the state were On Wednesday, a single-line proposal responsibility to be the watchdog,” he Nath’s likely elevation as Madhya Pradesh CM. Source: HT declared on Wednesday morning. The had been passed at the Madhya Pradesh said. How Cong led by Rahul turned the party around in 3 states

NEW DELHI (TIP): The Congress is back, Congress capitalised on the resentment, and winning the states of Rajasthan, Madhya promised both short term measures such as Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. And it is back in loan waivers and longer term measures of the region where it was most deeply promising ways to encourage small and vulnerable. If there is a pattern in this set of medium industries everywhere to create jobs. elections, here are five factors Congress got These are not easy promises to keep, but for right. now they have worked. It also built on the Ironically, or perhaps appropriately, those anger that has been accumulating over both are the same factors the BJP has got right demonetisation and implementation of the since it embarked on its winning spree since Goods and Services Tax. 2014. No Indian election can be won without The first is leadership. This was always getting caste right, and this is the fourth factor. Narendra Modi’s forte. What changed? The BJP has, since 2014, become an inclusive Rahul Gandhi got it right — not because he Hindu party. It has consolidated upper castes, won the election on his own steam but because and gone beyond them to win over the support a leader has to take the right decisions. He of OBCs, Dalits and tribals. took the right decisions in Madhya Pradesh. The Congress recognised it had to be as all- The state president was the old, but the embracing. It went back to the upper castes resourceful, Kamal Nath who knew how to rev and leveraged on their latent sense that the up an organisation. Jyotiraditya Scindia was testament to Gandhi’s underestimated stayed on the path, convinced that he needed to BJP has betrayed them by turning pro the most popular of all leaders across regions management skills. Once he had figured be in tune with the beliefs , but not necessarily backward and Dalit. It went to the Dalits and and demographics. Digvijay Singh knew the leadership, he led from the front with an the prejudices, of his society. The polarisation constantly emphasised the BJP’s upper caste state organisation inside out but was kept in aggressive and energetic campaign. trick did not work. character. It picked on local issues, from the the background because of his perceived The second is religion. In Indian elections, The third is the economic narrative. The encounter of a Rajput gangster in Rajasthan to public unpopularity. In Rajasthan, Ashok you have to get religion right. The BJP has BJP constructed the vikas (development) putting up its own upper caste candidates in Gehlot was most popular. Sachin Pilot worked always relied on polarisation, portraying promise as an overarching platform. It is several constituencies. It also sought to win hard, and rebuilt the organisation. In itself as the Hindu and the Congress as the unravelling. back the OBC vote by giving them Chhattisgarh, TS Singh Deo, as the Thakur pro-Muslim party. The Congress picked up local issues in each representation in leadership in both leader and leader of opposition, and The Congress, soon after the 2014 elections district and constituency. It helped that the Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. All of this helped Tamardhwaj Sahu and Bhupesh Bagel, as the but definitely after the Uttar Pradesh party was the challenger and thus had the the Congress create a far more inclusive and key swingers of the crucial Other Backward elections, realised that it had to change its advantage of taking on an incumbent. But as umbrella coalition within the Hindu fold than Classes vote, were empowered. Gandhi picked game. And this led to Rahul Gandhi picking up Gandhi said in each state, there were two it has at any point since 2014. no chief ministerial candidate, although he straight from his grandmother’s textbook of pillars of the party’s strategy, a promise to The fifth is organisation, which matters. will have to do so now (but everyone worked displaying Hindu religiosity rather than from protect farmers, reeling from low prices, and a And the BJP has got this right with the hard believing that they had a chance). But in his great grandfather’s practice of aggressive promise to provide jobs to the young. Agrarian extensive use of its booth committee and a loose organisational setup, to manage agnosticism. Many criticised this as the distress and unemployment have become the panna pramukhs and cadre based machine. leadership, and reconcile factions, is Congress’ turn to soft Hindutva. But Gandhi two biggest failures of the government. The Source: HT THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 INDIA 15

CBI SECURES INTERPOL RED Rafale: No favouritism, rules CORNER AGAINST CHOKSI

NEW DELHI (TIP): The Central Bureau of apex court while rejecting Investigation (CBI) has managed to secure an Interpol Red Notice against fugitive diamond trader court-monitored probe Mehul Choksi, in what is seen as a big boost to its NEW DELHI (TIP): In a big relief to efforts to bring him back to the Narendra Modi government, the India to face trial in the Supreme Court on Friday dismissed Punjab National Bank petitions seeking a court-monitored (PNB) fraud. probe into the purchase of 36 Rafale Choksi became a citizen fighter jets from France under an inter of the Caribbean country Antigua and Barbuda under a government agreement. programme in which a certain quantum of investment A Bench of Chief Justice of India entitles an individual to citizenship. Ranjan Gogoi, Justice Sanjay Kishan Investigations have showed that Choksi began the Kaul and Justice KM Joseph said there process to take citizenship of the twin-island nation last were no irregularities in the deal and year, well before he left India in the first week of January. the decision making process for the The fraud came out a little later. purchase 36 Rafale fighter jets from Choksi was formally granted citizenship in November Dassault was above board. last year but took oath as an Antiguan citizen on January The court said the need for fighter jets 15. and Rafale's quality we're never under Choksi , who, along with his nephew, diamond jeweller question and it was not the court's job to Nirav Modi, who, too, is a fugitive from India, perpetrated get into comparative pricing details. a fraud on PNB amounting to over Rs 13,500 crore, "We cannot go into the wisdom of why according to CBI. the deal for 36 Rafale jets was made and Neither has returned to India despite repeated summons not the original 126 aircraft. We cannot need and quality of Rafale jets," the in 2001 and India was to purchase 126 from the investigation agencies and courts. ask the government to go for 126 Bench said. Medium Multi Role Combat Aircraft “In July, Choksi, 59, was traced to Antigua after US aircraft," the Bench said. It's not correct for the court to sit as (MMRCA) but the contract negations authorities informed their India counterparts about his For the first time, four senior IAF an appellate authority on every aspect reached a stalemate and Request for travel to the Caribbean nation. The CBI, through the officers – three Air Marshalls and an of the deal," the Bench added. Proposal compliance was finally ministry of external affairs, immediately approached the Air Vice Marshall – and Additional Terming it "unfortunate", Prashant withdrawn in June 2015. During the Antiguan authorities asking for extradition of Choksi. The Secretary (Defence) had appeared in the Bhushan, cousel for one of the protracted process India’s adversaries island nation has informed the Indian authorities that it top court to explain various aspects of a petitioners said, "It's a totally incorrect modernized their combact capabilities, the would honour any legitimate request to extradite him. The defence deal. judgment given by the Supreme Court." AG had submitted. process has begun,” said a government official who spoke CJI Gogoi had asked several The top court had reserved the It was in this background that India on the condition of anonymity. questions about previous acquisitions, verdict on November 13 on the signed an agreement with France in The Antiguan authorities also pointed out the absence of which generation of aircraft IAF was contentious issue after hearing September 2016 for the purchase of 36 a Red Notice against Choksi and the fact that one has now using. Air Vice Marshall J Chalapathi arguments from counsel for the Rafale fighter aircraft in a fly-away been secured means that gap has been addressed, this had told the Bench that the last petitioners, including Prashant condition as part of upgrading process of official added. acquisition was Sukhoi-30 and before Bhushan, senior journalist Arun the Indian Air Force equipment. A lawyer for Mehul Choksi said Mehul Choksi’s legal that Mirage Aircraft were bought in Shourie and Attorney General KK It has better deliverables, the AG had team will work on setting aside the notice. 1985. Venugopal who had defended secrecy said, adding norms prescribed under “This [notice] appears to have been obtained by making He had said while most of the clause of the deal estimated to be of Rs Defence Procurement Policy -2013 were misrepresentations to Interpol. As we didn’t get an countries were using 4th and 5th 58,000 crore. followed. opportunity to represent our stand, this Red Notice has generation fighter planes, IAF was Alleging irregularities in the deal, The Bench said, "Minor variations in been issued. We shall be exposing the misrepresentations using 3rd or sub-4th generation (3.5) petitioners ML Sharma, Prashant clauses should not amount to setting aside at various forums and we are confident that this Red aircraft. Bhushan, Vineet Dhanda and Sanjay of the Rafale jet deal. Notice shall be set aside in due course,” said Sanjay Abbot. "Our country can't remain Singh had demanded registration of an The Bench agreed with Attorney The Red Notice is basically an appeal to all Interpol unprepared when adversaries have FIR and a court-monitored investigation General's argument that the decision on member countries to arrest the person and send him or her acquired 4th & 5th generation fighter into it. Following the court’s October 31 types of aircraft and weapons needed to be back to the country which requested issuance of the same. jets compared to none by India. We have order, the Centre had submitted in a sealed procured was a matter for experts and A Central Bureau of Investigation official disputed interacted with senior Indian Air Force cover the pricing details of 36 Rafale jets. could not be adjudicated upon by the Abbot’s version. officers and there is no doubt about The process of acquisition had started judiciary. Source: The Tribune India, Russia agree to extend bilateral cooperation on defence

NEW DELHI (TIP): India and Russia forward inter-governmental arrangements agreed to extend bilateral cooperation on for facilitating joint manufacturing of defence joint-venture (JV) manufacturing spares for Russian origin equipment in projects on Thursday (December 13) at the India, under the Make in India’ initiative. 18th meeting of the India-Russia With a view to enhancing military-to- Governmental Commission on Military military engagement and rationalising the Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-MTC). functioning of the Commission, a revised The meeting was co-chaired by Defence Inter-Governmental Agreement was signed Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and her by the two defence ministers. Russian counterpart General Sergei It will help restructure the existing Shoigu. IRIGC-MTC to the IRIGC on Military and With regards to the framework of Special Military Technical Cooperation. An and Privileged Strategic Partnership’, the additional institutional working group minister discussed a wide range of issues would also be set up under the expanded related to defence equipment, industry and Commission. technological engagement between India The ministers expressed satisfaction over and Russia. the level of progress in structured Both ministers expressed satisfaction engagement between the two armed forces, citing dynamism and progress in bilateral including joint exercises and resumption of defence cooperation. training exchanges, as per the framework of Intensive discussions were held on joint the Bilateral Road Map on Defence manufacturing projects, including the Cooperation’ signed in June 2017. Kamov-226T helicopters, naval frigates and The inaugural meeting of the IRIGC- projects related to land systems. MTC is proposed to be held in Russia next The two countries also agreed to take year. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu along with Indian counterpart Nirmala Sitharaman. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 16 FEATURE FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 Get In The Holiday Spirit With Messiah & Cirque Dreams By Mabel Pais

“(NJSO is)….a vital, artistically Montclair State University Singers significant musical organization” - Wall Street Journal “Together, orchestra, chorus, conductor and soloists brought out the work's many shades, and delivered that one particular seasonal requirement, a rousing 'Hallelujah' ” - Star Ledger he New Jersey Symphony Orchestra (NJSO) presents Handel's Messiah TMembers of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra (NJSO) perform Patrick Dupre Quigley, conductor Handel's Messiah with the Montclair State University Singers and a quartet of vocal The Program soloists December 14 and 16 in Princeton and Handel's Messiah Newark, respectively. ● Friday, December 14, at 8 pm | Patrick Dupré Quigley conducts a Richardson Auditorium in Princeton historically informed interpretation of ● Sunday, December 16, at 7 pm | Cathedral Handel's masterwork - a Christmastime Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark standing at the beginning of the Messiah's 258 9220. tradition in concert halls across the world. ● Patrick Dupré Quigley, conductor "Hallelujah Chorus." 2. The Cathedral Basilica Of the Sacred Soprano Margot Rood, countertenor ● Margot Rood, soprano Full concert information is available at Heart, visit www.cathedralbasilica.org or Reginald Mobley, tenor Steven Soph and ● Reginald Mobley, countertenor njsymphony.org/messiah. call 973 484 4600. baritone Charles Wesley Evans join the ● Steven Soph, tenor For more information on NJSO and New Jersey Symphony Orchestra Orchestra and choir. ● Charles Wesley Evans, baritone concert tickets, visit njsymphony.org, or call The Star-Ledger has praised the NJSO's ● Montclair State University Singers | 1.800.ALLEGRO (255.3476) or email Named "a vital, artistically significant performances of the masterwork with the Heather J. Buchanan, director [email protected]. musical organization" by The Wall Street Montclair State University Singers, writing: ● Members of the New Jersey Symphony The Venues Journal, the New Jersey Symphony "Together, orchestra, chorus, conductor and Orchestra Orchestra embodies that vitality through its soloists brought out the work's many shades, HANDEL Messiah For the location and directions to statewide presence and critically acclaimed and delivered that one particular seasonal 1. The Richardson Auditorium in performances, education partnerships and requirement, a rousing 'Hallelujah.'" The Orchestra invites the audience to Princeton, visit unparalleled access to music and the participate in the centuries-old tradition of www.richardson.princeton.edu or call 609 Orchestra's superb musicians. CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE “The Perfect Holiday Gift … a show that everyone will enjoy” - BroadwayWorld “(A) delicious confection of charm, sparkle and talent by the sleighload and so full of energy it could end our dependence on oil” - The New York Daily News irque Dreams Holidaze lights up the 2018 holiday season with its popular C and electrifying stage spectacular! The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) presents Cirque Dreams Holidaze on Wednesday, December 26 at 7 P.M. and Thursday, December 27 at 7 P.M. The New York Daily News proclaims a "delicious confection of charm, sparkle and Performers of Cirque Dreams Holidaze Photos /Courtesy NJPAC talent by the sleighload and so full of energy it could end our dependence on oil." acrobatics, gravity-defying feats and New Jersey Performing Arts Center NJPAC has attracted more than 9 million Broadway director Neil Goldberg has extravagant theatrical production numbers. (NJPAC), located in downtown Newark, N.J., visitors (including over 1.7 million children searched the world to assemble the unique cast The Boston Globe hails, "Entrancing … Las has the most diverse programming and and families) since opening its doors in 1997, of incomparable cirque artists and theatrical Vegas meets family entertainment." audience of any performing arts center in the and nurtures meaningful and lasting talent to wow audiences nationwide. This Experience this unique, multimillion-dollar country, and is the artistic, cultural, relationships with each of its constituents. critically acclaimed extravaganza is a live stage production, which dazzled at the educational and civic center of New Jersey - Get Social! 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YouTube: NJPACtv Thanksgiving, Chanukah, Christmas and New For tickets to Cirque Dreams Holidaze, visit Through its extensive Arts Education (Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Year's in a two-hour, breathtaking spectacle. NJPAC.org or the NJPAC Box Office or call programs, NJPAC is shaping the next Entertainment, Social Issues, Spirituality, and Audiences of all ages will marvel at soaring 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722). generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. Health and Wellness) ADVERTISEMENT 17 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 18 BOLLYWOOD FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 AISHWARYA AND KARISMA DANCE TOGETHER AT THE AMBANI’S CELEBRATION

sha Ambani’s pre-wedding ceremonies like the recently concluded sangeet at IUdaipur has seen many firsts, like the three Khans —Salman, Shah Rukh and Aamir — dancing at the same event. Now, yet another ‘wall’ seems to have been broken. At the sangeet ceremony, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Karisma ANUSHKA SHARMA: Kapoor were seen dancing together. Why would that be of any consequence? RAB NE BANA DI JODI Well, that is because Aishwarya is the wife of actor Abhishek Bachchan while Karisma CHANGED MY LIFE dated Abhishek for seven years before they were engaged to get married. However, the ctor Anushka Sharma says her debut engagement was broken off and Karisma film Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, which clocks went on to marry her now-ex husband, A10 years on Wednesday, has a special Sunjay Kapur. So seeing them dance place in her heart as she got to work with people together was pleasant indeed. who had faith in her. It seems, all the concerned parties have The actor said she is close to producer Aditya let bygones be bygones. In fact, it would not Chopra and her co-star Shah Rukh Khan even be inappropriate to add here that showing today.“Adi (Aditya Chopra, director) used to say the way for such an attitude is the young that ‘we have taken you because you can stand brigade of Bollywood. on your own against anyone’. Yashji (Yash Some time back, a picture was online Chopra) had also said the same. For a young which showed Karan Johar in the company person like me to hear that was a huge of Deepika Padukone, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia confidence booster,” Anushka said. Bhatt, Ranveer Singh, Shah Rukh Khan and “I got to work with people who were very nice Aamir Khan. Nothing out of place there, and generous to me. I share a beautiful equation other than the fact that Deepika and Ranbir with all of them even now. I am blessed to be are ex-lovers (Deepika even had a tattoo of working on this film. It changed my life. It is his initials on her nape, at one time). The something that is going to be the most special fact that ex-lovers and their current thing I have done,” she added. partners could meet and enjoy time The actor, who was 20 when she made her together showed how these stars weren’t debut, was praised for her confidence on screen, letting themselves be victims of their past. something that she says, came after a lot of Deepika and Ranbir have realised that hardwork. being friends is more important, it seems. I valued the art I was in, I valued acting a lot, The result was that they have walked the I paid attention and worked towards it. I would ramp together and done films opposite each read the same script almost everyday, finding other. In fact, Deepika and Alia even dreamy engagement at Italy’s scenic Lake Mumbai on December 12. Isha will marry something new in it to do. They understood the appeared on Koffee With Karan together in Como in September this year and an Anand Piramal, son of Swati and Ajay hard work I was putting into the film. And the this season’s inaugural episode. exciting sangeet ceremony in Udaipur, the Piramal - founder of Piramal Realty, a only reason I was so confident when I did the Meanwhile, the Isha Ambani wedding couple is all set to tie the knot at Mukesh leading real estate firm. film is because I was so prepared. Confidence functions’ juggernaut rolls on. After a Ambani’s residence Antilia, in South Source: HT comes because you work so hard,” she said. Kartik Aaryan on why he wants to have babies with Katrina

artik Aaryan is among accents. Since Katrina had everyone tries to force a the hottest young one, she fitted the bill. On person to drink. “So from my Kactors in Bollywood, Neha’s insistence that first party,I ask the bartender thanks to the spectacular Jacqueline Fernandez too to give me a glass of water, showing of his film, Sonu Ke had one, Kartik feigned put lemon and ice in it. Then, Titu Ki Sweety. So much so innocence, adding that he I look at the colour of other that Sara Ali Khan recently didn’t know that. people’s drink and add said that she wants to date Speaking about his orange juice or any other him. Speaking on Koffee With equation with Sara and asked juice to it so that it looks like Karan, the Kedarnath actor if any sparks few between the a proper mocktail,” Indian said she finds him hot. two at a recent party, Kartik Express quoted him as Now, it is Kartik’s turn to replied saying that since Saif saying. speak and he has done so with was present at the do, On the question to which flourish. Speaking on Neha everything was “eco Bollywood couple ought to Dhupia’s No Filter Neha, the friendly”. “I think Saif (Ali admit to being together, he actor was in his elements as Khan) sir was also there, so it named Arjun Kapoor and he did not duck any questions was all eco-friendly.” Malaika Arora and gave the and answered all head on. On He was further asked he tag of being the couple of an earlier occasion, he had pretends to drink, to which, 2018, he named Ranbir mentioned that he would like he answered in the Kapoor and Alia Bhatt. He to have babies with Katrina affirmative. He reportedly also said that one actor who Kaif. On No Filter Neha, he said that when he entered the ought to delete his social finally explained his stance, industry, he pretended to media account is Sushant stating that he had a thing for drink at parties, else Singh Rajput. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 HOLLYWOOD 19 JENNIFER LOPEZ CAN SEE WHY PEOPLE WANT HER AND ALEX RODRIGUEZ TO GET MARRIED ennifer Lopez understands why people want her and boyfriend Alex JRodriguez to get married. "Everyone wants a fairy tale," she told USA Today during an interview. "They all want a romantic comedy, a happy ending. We all do. But it's not a movie, even if you see us on Instagram or on the shows." The "Second Act" star added that even though she and the former baseball player I'D BE 'VICTIM-SHAMED' have been going steady for more than one year, they're not rushing into tying the IF I SHARED MY METOO knot. "We're happy," she said. "We're taking it STORY: MEGAN FOX day-by-day. And it's great." In recent months, Lopez and Rodriguez egan Fox thinks she'd be "victim- have shared videos from their joint shamed" if she was to come forward workout sessions, red carpet appearances, Mwith her own #MeToo experiences. and photos with their children. The singer The 32-year-old actress has claimed the has two kids named Max and Emme with reason she hasn't joined the dozens of women ex-husband Marc Anthony and Rodriguez speaking out about alleged sexual misconduct has two daughters, Natasha and Ella, from in Hollywood is because she thinks she'd be his previous marriage to Cynthia Scurtis. painted as an "unsympathetic victim". "2018 has really moved us to place where She said: "I didn't speak out for many reasons. we feel like a real family," Lopez said. I just didn't think based on how I'd been received "That's nice. And it's good enough right by people, and by feminists, that I would be a now." Recently, Lopez was grilled about her sympathetic victim. relationship during an appearance on "The "I thought if ever there were a time when the Ellen DeGeneres Show." The talk show host world would agree that it's appropriate to sneakily lied to the 49-year-old and said that victim-shame someone, it would be when I came Rodriguez told her that he was planning on forward with my story." proposing to Lopez, but the singer didn't The 'Transformers' star claims she has "quite fall for it. When DeGeneres asked if Lopez a few stories" involving sexual misconduct that and Rodriguez are actually getting she could tell, but insisted she wouldn't be married, Lopez explained that she wasn't commenting on them in public as she doesn't sure, but they've "been together a couple of believe it's her "job to punish someone" for their years and it's nice." past actions. In July, the "Dinero" singer also said that She added: "I don't feel it's my job to punish she wasn't rushing into a wedding with someone because they did something bad to me. Rodriguez because she's "made plenty of I'm not the universal hammer of justice." mistakes" in the past. Lopez married But although she might not be speaking out Anthony in 2004 and separated in 2011. about her past, Megan is determined to raise Before that, she was married to Ojani Noa her sons - Noah, six, Bodhi, four, and Journey, in the late '90s, married to Cris Judd in the two, all of whom she has with husband Brian early 2000s, and engaged to Ben Affleck. Austin Green - to respect women. MARGOT ROBBIE WAS ‘TERRIFIED’ TO PLAY QUEEN ELIZABETH I

ctor Margot Robbie has revealed trail with her latest historical drama film that she was initially hesitant to Mary Queen of Scots. Aplay Queen Elizabeth in "Mary And Margot Robbie pulled all out the Queen of Scots" as she felt "terrified". stops as she joined Saoirse Ronan for the The 28-year-old actor believes that to European Premiere of the film at take on a character which has been Cineworld Leicester Square in London on previously portrayed by the likes of Judi Monday evening. Dench, Helen Mirren and Cate Blanchett is The Wolf Of Wall Street star, 28, oozed too big a task. Old Hollywood glamour as she donned a "That (history of portrayals) was polka dot gown, embellished a plunging definitely something that ran through my neckline and rose details on its bodice. mind many times. I'm not going to lie, I was Putting her best fashion foot forward, terrified, and I initially passed on the role," the blonde's busty ensemble was Robbie told Entertainment Weekly in an embroidered with pleated trimming along interview. the ends. The actor said director Josie Rourke was Margot ensured focus remained on her adamant that she play the part and outfit as she went accessory-free for her relentlessly pursued her. red carpet appearance in the English The film is based on John Guy's 2004 capital. biography of 'Mary, Mary Queen of Scots' The Australian actress appeared to take and chronicles the deterioration of Mary style inspiration from the 60s as she styled and Elizabeth's relationship in the years her glossy tresses into pin-up curls. after she returns to Scotland. Maintaining the red colour scheme, she enhanced her out-of-this-world beauty with Margot Robbie exudes matte crimson lipstick, rose-tinted old Hollywood glamour eyeshadow and a heavy winged eyeliner She's been on a worldwide promotional look. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 20 NEW YORK FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 FIA Elects 2019 Executive Team: Alok Kumar Elected President

CONTD FROM PAGE 3 progression to the election commission chair, Jayesh Patel joined by Yash Paul Soi, also a member on the election commission. They Himanshu Bhatia (Treasurer), Haresh Shah (Jt. Secretary) & collectively announced the newly elected 2019 FIA team along Andy Bhatia (Past President). with explaining the formal process that was followed leading the Parikh welcomed all attendees in the meeting, which included election results. All Nominees were unanimously elected and Board of Trustees (BOT), Board of Directors and the 2018 approved for their respective positions. The 2019 team comprises Committee members and complimented the work of the executive of Alok Kumar on the top spot as the President along with committee and the 2018 committee. Gratitude and compliments Himanshu Bhatia as Executive Vice President, Saurin Parikh as were extended to FIA supporters and sponsors for their generosity Vice President, Amit Yadav as General Secretary,Mardari Patel as and support shown during the 2018 calendar year. Parikh Joint Secretary,Amit Ringasia as Treasurer and Srujal Parikh as provided highlights of major events in a chronological order the immediate Past President. during the calendar year and shared the grand success of multiple Alok Kumar, who credits his origins for his interest in serving events with the attendees. This included the Lighting of the the community has roots in Darbhanga, Bihar. Kumar, an IT Empire State Building (ESB) in NYC (ESB is the official Lighting professional, has been residing in the USA close to 15 years. He Partner of FIA), now a tradition and its 6th year as well the has been an integral part of the FIA Executive Committee since historic Diwali day Lighting of ESB in diya colors, a first for ESB the past 4 years and brings along a highly in-depth and celebrating the festival of lights. After pointing to the array of professional experience to the top spot of FIA. He concluded events, he led to the highlight of FIA's flagship event, the 38th highlighting his confidence in the elected team and thanking FIA, India Day Parade in NYC on Aug. 19th, which was marked by the BOT and the Member Organizations for trusting and showing Yoshita Singh is honored. L to R: Media Chair Ankur Vaidya , presence of Grand Marshal Kamal Hassan along with Chief Trustee Bipin Patel, President Srujal Parikh, President Elect faith in his leadership. Guest Star performer Padma Shri Kailash Kher, Legendary Alok Kumar, Chairman Ramesh Patel, Past President Shobhna FIA also recognized and honored the voluntary efforts and Cricketer Sir Viv Richards, Guest of Honor Shruti Hassan, Patel, Mr. Mukesh Roy, Yoshita Singh, Trustees Yash Paul Soi support of Yoshita Singh, UN correspondent for PTI, who has singing sensation Shibani Kashyap among a host of other notable & Dr. Praveen Pandhi. Photo / Courtesy Paresh Gandhi dedicatedly guided and supported FIA with her vision and celebrities. The group cheered efforts that brought the success of expertise. the Indian Independence Day Anniversary celebrations which the honor of the Grand Marshall and the supporters were also Established in 1970, FIA is a premier oldest and largest non- was held with its own set of multiple programs like the cultural applauded by Parikh. profit grassroots umbrella organization comprising of diversified program with multiple on-stage performances and 'Fun Fair' Chairman Ramesh Patel applauded Parikh for his leadership Indian Associations here in NY NJ & CT. consisting of concession stands of various kinds mentioned and service to the organization and pointed to the newly elected For further info. Please visit our website www.fianynjct.org or Parikh pointing to the festivities that transpired. The success of team as a reformation of FIA with 2nd generation of volunteers Email : [email protected] (Press release) FIA's Grand Gala Reception held at The Royal Albert's Palace in assuming leadership roles. He proceeded with handing over the AAPI-QLI Celebrates 23 Years of Excellence

Congressman Tom Suozzi is honored

Guests with hosts.L to R: Dr. Vinni Jayam (Convention Chair), Steven Bellone (Suiffolk County Executive), Dr. Jagdish Gupta (President, AAPI-QLI), Congressman Tom Suozzi, and AAPI-QLI BOT Chairman Dr. Ajay Lodha CONTD FROM PAGE 2 The organization also conducts many Health Camps at our religious institutions, providing gave an overview about the organization, and free flu vaccine, eye care, dental care and its trajectory of growth over the past 23 years preventive medical care including anti-obesity and how it has become one of the most powerful campaigns in the elementary schools and for ethnic Physician organizations in Queens and Veterans of our nation." Long Island area with more than 800 members In his address, Dr. Ajay Lodha, Chairman of President, AAPI-QLI Jagdish Gupta is honored and one of the largest chapters in National BOT-AAPI-QLI, and past national President of AAPI. Enumerating some of the programs AAPI, said, "Under the leadership of Dr. Gupta, year included: Dr.Alan Guerci, President & CEO, Physicians have earned the admiration and under his able leadership AAPI-QLI initiated, AAPI-QLI has raised the bar higher than ever. Catholic Health services, Long Island; and, Dr. respect of those in their community, working Dr. Gupta said, AAPI-QLI has been providing a We have been able to expand our reach to all Jason Naidich, Senior VP & Regional Executive diligently to provide vital programs and services forum for monthly meetings for Continuing parts of the state and improve the educational Director of Northern Region at Northwell that contribute to the quality of life in Queens, Medical Educations on Sunday, monthly and charitable experience of our members. Dr. Health and Chairman of Radiology at Zucker Nassau and Suffolk Counties in New York." sessions with discussions on current trends and Lodha described AAPIQLI, as the most vibrant School of Medicine. AAPI-QLI honored three of Dr. Vinni Jayam, Convention Chair, welcomed changes on a range of topics in healthcare, and powerful subchapter of national AAPI, its own members for their dedicated services the audience to the gala and thanked the tireless wealth management, and practice management which represents more than 100,000 physicians and contributions as well as their achievements efforts of the committee members for their hard issues on Wednesday."AAPI-QLI is also engaged and more than 20,000 residents and fellows of in the field of Medicine and Health. Dr. Satish work and dedication. Dr.Rakesh Dua, Immediate in charitable activities for the benefit of our Indian subcontinent. "My friends, we do not Anand was honored with Lifetime Past President of AAPI, congratulated the team community at large, in the form of donations to know our own power.When AAPI speaks, people Distinguished Services to AAPI-QLI Award. Dr. under the leadership of Dr. Gupta. The event ROTACARE, INN- Soup Kitchen, Shankar in Washington listen". Manjeet Chadha received the Distinguished ended with a live musical performance by Nethralaya, CRY foundation and many others. The Distinguished honorees of the Gala this Physician Innovation in Research Award; and, leading Bollywood stars, and a grand dinner. Dr. Gaddam Reddy was honored with AAPIQLI represents more than 2,000 Distinguished Physician Clinical Services Physicians residing in Queens, Nassau and Award. In his address, Congressman Thomas Suffolk serving the community of New York and Suozzi, chief guest at the event, praised the its Counties. These practicing physicians are contributions of Indian Americans to the larger dedicated to provides highest quality of care to American society. "In this room, you represent their patients and are also serving in most the future of New York and the USA. I see an prominent positionsand are making decisions immense pool of talents among you. We are very about medical and Pharmaceutical Products, lucky to have you. You do so much for the devices and equipment and practice related nation," he said. Describing India's relationship services at multiple levels in hospitals, medical with the United States to be "the most important school, outpatient centers, and health care in the next 50 years" facilities. "We take pride in our diversity," Nassau For information, please visit: County Executive, Steven Bellone, in his http://aapiqli.org/about-aapiqli/ felicitation address, said. "Indian American AAPI-QLI Executive and Past Presidents (Based on a press release) THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 TRIBUTE 21 GURU TEGH BAHADUR — HIND KI CHADAR Interestingly, there are two different dates now for the martyrdom celebration of Guru Tegh Bahadur. The Akal Takht has decreed that the martyrdom be observed on 12th December, while the Nanakshahi calendar approved earlier by the Sikh Gurdwara Parbhandak Committee says it is November 24. However, not going in to the controversy about the date of martyrdom, THE INDIAN PANORAMA pays its Tribute to the savior of Hindustan. — EDITOR

uru Tegh Bahadur was the ninth Sikh Bahadur met with Rani Champa of Bilaspur, Guru, often venerated as the ‘Protector who offered him a piece of land. The Guru Gof Humanity’ (Srisht-di-Chadar) by the insisted on paying her 500 rupees for the land, Sikhs. Known as a great teacher, Guru Tegh where he founded a city called Anandpur Bahadur was also an excellent warrior, Sahib. thinker, and poet, who wrote detailed Some of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s works are description of the nature of God, mind, body, added in the ‘Guru Granth Sahib’ and cover a and physical attachments among other things range of topics, including nature of God, spiritual. His writings are housed in the mind, body, physical attachments, etc. In 1672, sacred text, ‘Guru Granth Sahib,’ in the form the Guru traveled through the North-West of 116 poetic hymns. He was also an avid Frontier, where the persecution of non- traveler and played a key role in setting up Muslims was at its peak. preaching centers throughout the Indian subcontinent. During one such mission, he Execution founded the town of Chak-Nanki in Punjab, When the then Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb which later became a part of Punjab’s forced the Brahmin scholars of Kashmir to Anandpur Sahib. In 1675, Guru Tegh Bahadur convert to Islam, the Brahmins approached was forced by the then Mughal Emperor Guru Tegh Bahadur for a solution. The Guru Aurangzeb to give up his faith and convert to sent them back with a message to Aurangzeb, Islam. When he refused, the Sikh Guru was which stated that the Mughal emperor could beheaded on November 24, 1675, in Delhi. convert the Brahmins if he succeeds in converting Guru Tegh Bahadur. A few days Early Life after his proclamation, Guru Tegh Bahadur Guru Tegh Bahadur was born Tyag Mal on was arrested along with a couple of his April 1, 1621, in Amritsar, Panjab. He was born followers, namely Bhai Mati Das and Bhai to the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind, and Dayal Das. When the trio refused to convert to his wife, Mata Nanaki. As a child, Tyag Mal Islam despite being tortured, Aurangzeb learnt Sanskrit, Hindi, and Gurmukhi from ordered their execution. While Mati Das was the revered Sikh scholar, Bhai Gurdas. While sawn to death, Dayal Das was cast into a huge horsemanship and archery was taught to him cauldron of boiling water. On November 24, by Baba Buddha ji, Guru Hargobind taught 1675, Guru Tegh Bahadur was beheaded in him swordsmanship. Delhi for standing up against the Mughal When Tyag Mal was just 13 years old, he ruler. accompanied his father to a battle against the Mughals, who had laid siege to Kartarpur. Impact of the Execution Thanks to Guru Hargobind and Tyag Mal, Post Guru Tegh Bahadur’s execution, the Kartarpur was successfully defended by the Sikhs became more resilience than ever. Many Sikhs. For exhibiting great valor and military Sikh temples were built in the memory of skills in the battle, Guru Hargobind bestowed Guru Tegh Bahadur and his deceased upon his son the title ‘Tegh Bahadur,’ which followers. ‘Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib’ was literally means ‘brave sword wielder.’ Tyag built in Chandni Chowk, where the Guru was Mal henceforth came to be known as Tegh executed. After his execution, the severed Bahadur. head of the Guru was taken back to Punjab by In 1632, Tegh Bahadur got married to Mata one of his followers named Bhai Jaita. After Gujri. By now, Tegh Bahadur had begun to cremating his head, another Sikh temple was spend much of his time in meditation and had built there. The Guru’s sacrifice continues to gradually secluded himself. In 1644, Guru remind the followers of the Sikh religion to Hargobind asked Tegh Bahadur to move to a Meanwhile, a wealthy trader named Baba saying, ‘why two when you pledged 500?’ Upon stay true to their faith. village, Bakala, along with his wife and his Makhan Shah Labana had once been caught hearing those words, Baba Makhan Shah mother. The next two decades saw Tegh in a powerful storm, which had almost placed 500 gold coins before Tegh Bahadur Legacy Bahadur spend most of his time meditating in capsized his ship. During the incident, Baba and started yelling with excitement, ‘Guru Upon Guru Tegh Bahadur’s execution, his an underground room in Bakala, where he Makhan Shah felt helpless and hence prayed ladho re’ (I have found the Guru). Henceforth, son Gobind Singh became the tenth Sikh Guru would later be recognized as the ninth Sikh to God that he would offer 500 gold coins to the Tegh Bahadur was declared as the ninth Sikh and came to be known as Guru Gobind Singh. Guru. During his stay in Bakala, Tegh Guru, should he be saved from the storm. Guru. Guru Tegh Bahadur’s execution left an Bahadur traveled extensively and even visited After being saved miraculously,Baba Makhan indelible impression on Guru Gobind Singh, Delhi to meet Guru Har Krishan, the eighth Shah went in search of Guru Har Krishan, Works who was just nine years old at that time. As a Sikh guru. when he was informed about the passing of Guru Tegh Bahadur started traveling to result, Guru Gobind Singh organized the Sikh the Guru. He was also informed that Guru Har various parts of the country in order to group in such a way that it eventually became Guruship Kishan had professed that the next Guru will preach the teachings of the first Sikh Guru, a distinct and symbol-patterned community. In 1664, Guru Har Krishan’s health was be found in Bakala. Guru Nanak. He also started spreading the Also, the Sikhs began to focus more on aspects badly affected by smallpox, which ultimately When Baba Makhan Shah Labana arrived message of Sikhism, while helping those in like bravery and self-defense, which gave rise led to his death on March 30, 1664. While on in Bakala on August 1664, he was surprised to need. In 1664, Guru Tegh Bahadur visited to the ‘Khalsa.’ his death bed, Guru Har Krishan was asked see as many as 22 imposters claiming to be the Kiratpur thrice for three different reasons. A number of places, including educational who would be his successor to which he ninth Sikh Guru. Baba Makhan Shah recalled During his first visit on August 21, 1664, the institutions and hospitals have been named simply uttered the words ‘Baba’ and ‘Bakala,’ his prayer and then started giving away two Guru met with Bibi Rup, the daughter of the after Guru Tegh Bahadur. While many of which implied that the next Guru would be Dinars to every imposter. As expected, all the seventh Sikh guru, who was mourning the these places are located in Punjab, there are found in Bakala. When the word about the imposters walked away happily after death of her father as well as that of her several places in other parts of India, which next Sikh Guru spread, many imposters receiving two Dinars. Baba Makhan Shah, brother. The second visit was prompted by the have been named after Guru Tegh Bahadur. settled down in Bakala and claimed to be the who was disappointed for not having met the death of Bassi, the mother of the seventh Sikh While Maharashtra has several educational next Guru for monetary and other trivial real Guru, was taken to Tegh Bahadur on guru, Guru Har Rai. The third visit marked institutions named after him, places like New gains. This led to confusion among the Sikhs August 10, 1664. Upon seeing Tegh Bahadur, the end of a long journey through the Delhi and Uttar Pradesh too, have a number of as it made the task of finding the real Sikh Baba Makhan Shah placed two Dinars before northwestern Indian subcontinent. schools and colleges that have been named Guru very difficult. him, for which Tegh Bahadur replied by On one of his visits to Bilaspur, Guru Tegh after the great Sikh Guru. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 22 WORLD FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 France: Yellow vest protester dies in road In a first under Justin Trudeau, accident STRASBOURG (TIP): A sixth “yellow Canada lists Khalistani vest” protester has been killed in France after being hit by a truck at a road blockade near the southern city of extremism as threat Avignon, French authorities said Dec 13, as the protest movement showed no signs of abating. Officials in the Vaucluse Sikh groups Babbar Khalsa International and the International Sikh Youth department said the driver was arrested and taken into custody after he tried to flee Federation, which are already on Canada's watch list, remain listed as terror the scene. The Vaucluse prefect’s office said the entities under the criminal code, the report mentions. protester got emergency treatment but died from his wounds overnight. The TORONTO (TIP): Taking into account prefect urged the protesters — who wear India’s concerns over support of Khalistani the yellow fluorescent safety vests that militants on its soil, Canada has for the first France requires drivers to keep in their time under the Justin Trudeau regime listed cars — to use “the utmost caution,” Sikh extremism as a threat to the country. especially at night, in order to avoid more Public Safety Canada, an arm of the Canadian accidents. government, said some individuals in the In an effort to defuse tensions, French country continue to support Sikh (Khalistani) President Emmanuel Macron has extremist ideologies and movements in its acknowledged he’s partially responsible “2018 Public Report on the Terrorism Threat for the anger that has fuelled the protests to Canada“. and has announced a series of measures Sikh groups Babbar Khalsa International aimed at improving the spending power of and the International Sikh Youth Federation, ordinary French workers. which are already on Canada’s watch list, But many yellow vest protesters have remain listed as terror entities under the expressed disappointment at the measures criminal code, the report mentions. and are planning more protests across The report notes that while violent France on Saturday. Macron’s centrist activities in support of an independent Sikh government is also going to face a no- homeland (Khalistan) in India have fallen confidence vote in the lower house of since the 1980s when terrorists carried out the parliament later on Dec 13. bombing of an Air India flight, killing 331 The report notes that while violent take into account the sensitivities in India The vote, prompted by far-left and people, “support for the extreme ideologies of activities in support of an independent Sikh regarding support to Sikh terror groups in Socialist lawmakers, is not expected to such groups remains”. homeland (Khalistan) in India have fallen Canada. succeed, however, as Macron’s party and “Violent activities in support of an since the 1980s when terrorists carried out the His visit to India earlier this year had made its allies have a strong majority at the independent Sikh homeland have fallen since bombing of an Air India flight, killing 331 the Khalistan movement a talking point once National Assembly. their height during the 1982-1993 period when people, “support for the extreme ideologies of again. During his meeting with Trudeau, Fearing more violence at protests this individuals and groups conducted numerous such groups remains”. Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder weekend, authorities have already terrorist attacks. While attacks around the “Violent activities in support of an Singh said he had raised the issue of postponed five French league soccer world in support of this movement have independent Sikh homeland have fallen since Khalistan. In an incident that caused further matches as the government diverts police declined, support for the extreme ideologies of their height during the 1982-1993 period when embarrassment to the Canadian premiere, to deploy extra security around the such groups remains,” the report mentions. individuals and groups conducted numerous Trudeau’s wife was clicked with Jaspal Atwal, country following the extremist attack Dec Sikh groups Babbar Khalsa International terrorist attacks. While attacks around the a member of an illegal Sikh separatist group, 13 that left three people dead in and the International Sikh Youth Federation, world in support of this movement have who was invited to an event hosted by the Strasbourg. which are already on Canada’s watch list, declined, support for the extreme ideologies of Canadian High Commission. The French league says the reason for remain listed as terror entities under the such groups remains,” the report mentions. (Express Web Desk) the cancellations is because police forces criminal code, the report mentions. The Canadian PM has repeatedly failed to are being stretched. France has raised its three-stage threat index to the highest level and deployed 1,800 additional soldiers across France to North Korea leader Kim Jong Un unlikely help patrol streets and secure crowded events in the wake of the Strasbourg attack on a Christmas market. More than to visit Seoul this month: Official 700 officers are involved in the manhunt for the 29-year-old suspect, Cherif Chekatt, SEOUL (TIP): North Korean leader Kim who had a long criminal record and had Jong Un’s return visit to Seoul appears been flagged for extremism, according to unlikely to take place this month, a senior government spokesman Benjamin South Korean official said. Kim and South Griveaux. He urged the “yellow vest” Korean President Moon Jae-in had agreed on protesters not to take to the streets. (AP) Kim’s visit to Seoul “in the near future” following their September summit in Gandhi statue removed Pyongyang. Moon later said that Kim would come “within this year.” Kim’s possible trip to from University of Seoul has been the focus of media attention in South Korea in the past two weeks. Ghana following The presidential Blue House on Dec 13 quoted senior presidential adviser Yoon Young- student protests chan as saying in a text message to local reporters on Wednesday that Kim’s visit this ACCRA (TIP): A statue of Indian year was “difficult.” Yoon said Kim’s trip early independence leader Mahatma Gandhi has next year was still possible. been removed from Ghana's most Experts say Kim is reluctant to come prestigious university after complaints that because of stalled nuclear negotiations with he was racist against black Africans. India's the United States and worries about security former president Pranab Mukherjee arrangements in the South. If Kim does visit Kim and South Korean this year. But they find it difficult to launch unveiled the statue to the global peace icon Seoul, he will become the first North Korean President Moon Jae-in had economic cooperation projects as the United at the University of Ghana in Accra two leader to do so since the end of the 1950-53 agreed on Kim's visit to Seoul States says it will maintain international years ago as a symbol of ties between the Korean War. The Koreas are divided by the sanctions on the North until it completes its two nations. But lecturers soon began a world’s most heavily fortified border, and about "in the near future" following nuclear disarmament. petition calling for its removal, citing 28,500 U.S. troops are stationed in South Korea their September summit in The negotiations between the U.S. and North passages written by Gandhi claiming that to deter potential aggression from North Pyongyang. Moon later said Korea have produced no major breakthrough Indians were "infinitely superior" to black Korea. Kim and Moon have taken a series of that Kim would come "within since Kim’s summit with President Donald Africans. (PTI) steps to reduce military tensions and boost ties this year." Trump in Singapore in June. (AP) THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 WORLD 23 Second Canadian Turkey: Train crash in Ankara missing in China after detention of former kills nine, injures 47 diplomat There were 206 passengers on the high-speed train, according to state- BEIJING, OTTAWA (TIP): Canadian owned Anadolu news agency, which also reported that the Ankara state businessman Michael Spavor, who worked with North Korea, is missing in China, a prosecutor's office had launched an investigation. Canadian official said, days after Chinese authorities detained a former Canadian ANKARA (TIP): Nine people were killed diplomat amid an escalating diplomatic and nearly 50 injured in Turkey when a high- row. speed train collided with a locomotive and His disappearance follows the detention crashed into a station platform and overpass in Beijing on Monday of former diplomat in an Ankara suburb early on Dec 13, officials Michael Kovrig, who works for the said. International Crisis Group. State media in Rescuers worked to free people trapped China has reported Kovrig is being under the mangled wreckage at Marsandiz investigated “on suspicion of engaging in train station, 8 km (5 miles) from central activities that harm China’s state Ankara. It was not clear at which speed the security”. train and locomotive were travelling when the China has reacted angrily to Canada’s collision occurred. There was light snow on arrest on Dec 1 of Chinese executive Meng the tracks. Wanzhou, the chief financial officer of The train had been heading from Ankara to China’s Huawei Technologies, and the central Turkish province of Konya and Spavor’s disappearance is likely to further was not due to stop at Marsandiz. Ankara escalate the diplomatic row. Governor Vasip Sahin said the locomotive, Meng’s arrest was made at Washington’s which lay battered 20 metres (22 yards) request. She has been accused by U.S. further ahead, carried out track inspections. prosecutors of misleading banks about Three train drivers were among the nine transactions linked to Iran, putting the killed in the crash, Transport Minister Cahit news agency, which also reported that the high-speed rail links during Tayyip Erdogan’s banks at risk of violating sanctions. Turhan told reporters on the scene. Ankara state prosecutor’s office had launched 16-year-old rule as it looks to ease the burden Canada has been unable to contact There were 206 passengers on the high- an investigation. on increasingly congested highways. Spavor since he notified the Canadian speed train, according to state-owned Anadolu Turkey has been developing a network of (Reuters) government that he was being questioned by Chinese authorities, Foreign Ministry spokesman Guillaume Bérubé said in statement issued in Canada late on Dec 12. Theresa May wins confidence vote, loses Canada was working hard to ascertain Spavor’s whereabouts and would continue to raise the issue with the Chinese government, Bérubé said. Phone calls, over one-third of her party support messages and emails to Spavor went unanswered on Dec 13. BRUSSELS (TIP): British Prime Minister Friends of Spavor told Reuters he was Theresa May survived a confidence vote with due to fly out of Dalian on a Korean Air the support of 200 lawmakers from her party flight to South Korea at 2:05 p.m. (0605 Dec 12. However, 117 lawmakers, more than a GMT) on Dec 10 but had not arrived. third of the Tories, dissented indicating a Spavor, who is based in the northern split within the conservative party over the Chinese city of Dandong, on the border Brexit deal. May, who needed 159 votes to win with North Korea, is the head of Paektu the vote, cannot be challenged for another Cultural Exchange, a China- and UK-based year. non-profit social enterprise. With Britain due to leave the EU on March More recently he has been trying to 29, Wednesday’s vote has suddenly opened up facilitate investment in North Korea in possibilities including a potentially anticipation of sanctions being lifted, disorderly exit with no deal or even another often hosting both North Korean officials referendum on the country’s membership. and potential investors at his office in Why the confidence vote was called? Dadong as well as on trips inside North Korea, Spavor told Reuters in previous The confidence vote was called after weeks interviews. (Reuters) of discord over the Brexit deal when at least 48 Conservative lawmakers submitted letters China to continue strict of protest challenging May’s leadership. Graham Brady, chairman of the 1922 significant number of colleagues did cast a came into politics to deal with. Building a bans on trading of rhino, committee — the body that represents vote against me and I have listened to what stronger economy,delivering first-class public Conservative backbenchers — announced they said. Following this ballot, we now need services, building the homes that families tiger products: official Wednesday that he had received more than to get on with the job of delivering Brexit for need. We owe it to people who put us here to the required number of letters to proceed the British people and building a better future put their priorities first. So here is our BEIJING (TIP): China will continue to with the confidence vote. May had cancelled a for this country. A Brexit that delivers on the renewed mission: delivering the Brexit that strictly ban the trade and use of rhinos, trip to Dublin where she had hoped to talk to vote that people gave, that brings back control people voted for, bringing the country back tigers and their byproducts, the National her Irish counterpart, Leo Varadkar, about of our money, our borders and our laws, that together, and building the country that truly Forestry and Grassland Administration changes that might help build support in the protects jobs, security and the Union, that works for everyone.” (NFGA) said on Dec 13. British Parliament for her Brexit proposals. brings the country back together rather than What would have happened if Theresa May The agency's spokesperson Huang Caiyi But it had already been clear that she was in entrenching division. That must start here in said the following "three strict bans" will deep waters, battered from multiple Westminster, with politicians on all sides had lost? continue to be enforced: strictly ban the directions by her management of the coming together and acting in the national In this case, May would no longer be the importing and exporting of rhinos, tigers European Union withdrawal. interest.” leader of the Conservative Party, and Brady and their byproducts; strictly ban the What Theresa May said after winning? “For my part, I have heard what the House would have begun the process to choose a sales, purchasing, transporting, carrying of Commons said about the Northern Ireland successor. Lawmakers would have voted in and mailing of rhinos, tigers and their After winning the confidence vote, May backstop and when I go to the European rounds of secret ballots, with the least- byproducts; and strictly ban the use of said she would get on with the job of pulling Council tomorrow I will be seeking legal and popular candidate eliminated each time, until rhino horns and tiger bones in medicine. Britain out of the European Union. Speaking political assurances that will assuage the two contenders remain. Brady said he Since Nov 13, the NFGA has been in Downing Street, the British PM said, “This concerns that members of Parliament have on believed that part of the process could be done staging special crackdown campaigns that has been a long and challenging day but at the that issue. But while delivering Brexit is by the end of business next Thursday when target the illegal trade of rhinos, tigers, end of it I am pleased to have received the important, we also need to focus on the other Parliament is scheduled to break for the their byproducts and related illegalities, backing of my colleagues in tonight’s ballot. issues that people feel are vital to them, that Christmas vacation. Huang told a news conference. (UNI) Whilst I am grateful for that support, a matter to them day-to-day, the issues that we (Express Desk) THE INDIAN PANORAMA 24 WOMEN FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

FOOD CORNER METHODS TO REMOVE HALF ROAST CHICKEN Ingredients Cooking oil, Whole chicken (skin on- rinsed and dressed), 2-3 UNWANTED BODY HAIR Onions (quartered- skin on), 1 bulb Garlic (halved - skin on), 4-5 Carrots (roughly quartered), 1/2 Cup Celery , finely, chopped, 5 sprigs Thyme, 250 Ml Dunkleweizen (pour into a glass and keep open at room temperature for an hour or two to make flat), 2 Cups Chicken stock, 3 Tbsp Butter, To taste Sea salt. Method „ Preheat oven to 220 degree C. „ In a greased oven tray line the carrots, celery, onions, garlic and thyme. „ Place the chicken on the tray and grease with oil and sprinkle with sea salt. „ Roast the chicken for 1.5 hours or till the juices run clear. Remove from the tray and reserve/rest. „ While the chicken is resting, pour the dunkelweizen into the tray turn the oven to the highest heat setting and let it bubble for five minutes. „ Remove the tray from the oven and transfer all contents to a sauce pan before adding in the chicken stock and the butter. „ Reduce the mixture of the beer, and chicken stock till it coats a spoon, adjust the salt. „ Serve with buttery mashed potatoes.

ost women prefer getting rid of Hair removal creams waxing is that you have to let the hair excess body hair using different Hair removal creams, also known as grow enough for the wax to pull it out. Mhair removal methods. While depilatories, have chemicals that break WHERE DOES IT WORK BEST: shaving and waxing are popular choices, down the hair structure. In this method, Waxing is a hair removal technique that there are many other ways to get rid of you apply the cream on an area, wait for 5 can be done on every part of the body unwanted hair. to 10 minutes for it to break down the hair including the face and pubic area. It Shaving and then use a towel or a plastic scraper works best when the hair is fully grown to remove the cream along with the hair. so that it can be pulled out in one stroke. Shaving works by cutting off the hair ADVANTAGES: Hair removal creams HOW TO USE IT: It is best to go to a Beauty benefits at the skin level. It’s the most commonly provide results that will typically last salon and get waxed but you also get used method of hair removal. You can longer than shaving but less than waxing. home waxing kits that have strips coated choose between electric shavers and DISADVANTAGES: The chemicals in with wax. You need to apply these strips disposable razors, depending on your hair removal creams are strong and can in the direction of the hair growth and of banana budget. irritate your skin. So do a patch test first hold the skin taut. Then, in one quick his humble fruit can do much more than you think! ADVANTAGES: Shaving is painless as and if the skin is fine with no irritation motion, pull the strip in the opposite From treating acne to anti-ageing benefits, this long as you are careful to not cut yourself. or redness, continue to apply it on a direction to get rid of the hair. In salons, Tgenius fruit needs to be part of your beauty regime. Make sure you use shaving cream or soap larger area. wax is applied on the skin using a spatula And here’s our scoop on top 5 benefits of banana. and sharp blades. That way you can WHERE DOES IT WORK BEST: Hair and the same process is followed. Natural moisturiser decrease the chance of having razor burn removal creams can be used on large HOW LONG WILL IT LAST: Waxing or post-shave irritation. It is also the least areas like legs and arms and also on keeps you hair-free for two-three weeks at Banana is rich in potassium, which makes it a great expensive and fastest way to remove patches that are difficult to shave or wax least, and in many cases, it can be four moisturiser for your skin. All you need to do is mash half unwanted hair. like your upper lip or elbows. weeks too. a banana and use it as mask to reveal soft and supple skin. DISADVANTAGES: Since the hair is HOW TO USE IT: Simply apply the Electrolysis For extreme dry skin, you can also add honey to make the only removed at the skin level, it tends to cream in the direction of the hair growth mask more effective. grow back soon. and leave it on for the required time as In this method of hair removal, a Acne control Where does it work best: Shaving mentioned in the instructions. Then needle is used to deliver a short blast of works on various body parts but many wash it off and pat dry your hairless, electric current into the hair follicle. It’s Banana peels is as useful as banana; it’s rich in women avoid shaving their face for the smooth skin. said to result in permanent hair removal antioxidant properties and does wonder to your skin too. fear of thick hair growth post the session. HOW LONG WILL IT LAST: These after just a few sessions. Unlike lasers, For acne solution, you can rub the white part of the peel However, shaving your legs, arms, creams can keep your hair growth away electrolysis works for any type of hair on acne affected areas till the peel turns brown. Like this underarms and even pubic area is safe. for up to a week depending on the and skin. the active nutrients on your skin will do its magic. You can HOW TO USE IT: Shaving in the shower thickness. ADVANTAGES: The main advantage of do this twice a week to reduce acne and even the scars. especially when you are using disposable Waxing electrolysis is that it provides permanent Reduce puffy eyes razors is the best way to get a smooth, results. But this procedure has to be hair-free body. Wet the area you want to Waxing is a hair removal technique performed only by a professional. There’s For instant DIY solution; you can use banana mash to shave and then lather it up with shaving that uses wax to remove hair from the no way you can do it on your own. reduce puffy eyes. Use the mash bananas on the affected gel or cream. Then, wet the razor with root. It is done by applying warm wax Electrolysis is also much less expensive area for about 15-20 minutes and rinse with cold water. water and shave in the opposite direction over an area and then using a strip of than laser hair removal, and requires This will help to reduce the swelling. of the hair growth. Hold the skin taut if cloth or paper to remove the wax along fewer follow-up visits. Foot care needed for a smoother glide. This step is with the unwanted hair. DISADVANTAGES: During electrolysis, essential when using an electric shaver ADVANTAGES: You have to suffer the hair is removed one at a time. This Just like your face, you can use banana mash on your as there is no cream used. Once done, pat through only a few seconds of pain for at makes it a much slower process than feet too. Use banana mask on your feet as a foot mask for 15 dry the skin and apply moisturiser to least two weeks of hairlessness. And it laser hair removal. There is a stinging minutes and wash them with lukewarm water to get prevent dryness. doesn' grow back as stubble. It'll have a sensation for each follicle that could be smoother and softer feet. HOW LONG WILL IT LAST: The hair tapered tip, making the hair growth less painful, again depending on your Hair mask tends to grow back faster with this hair obvious than when you shave. Waxing threshold. removal method. Depending on your hair also leaves your skin feeling silky, and WHERE DOES IT WORK BEST: Since For anti-hair loss treatment, make a paste of yoghurt growth, you will notice tiny hair growing over time re-growth of hair is likely to be the process is long, it works best on and banana. Use this pack on your hair for 15 minutes and back anything between two-three days to finer and slower. smaller areas like the face, neck and rinse with cold water. While for dry hair, you can use a week’s time post shaving. DISADVANTAGES: The drawback of underarms. honey and banana combo to get luscious locks! THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 HEALTH & FITNESS 25 NEW SPRAY GEL COULD HELP FIGHT CANCER AFTER SURGERY cientists have developed a spray gel embedded with immune- Sboosting drugs which they say could help the body fight off cancer after surgery. Many people who are diagnosed with cancer will undergo some type of surgery to treat their disease, said researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in the US. Almost 95 per cent of people with early—diagnosed breast cancer will require surgery and it is often the first line of treatment for people with brain Coffee compounds tumours, according to the study published in the journal Nature in other parts of the body, said Zhen Gu, By blocking CD47, the antibody Nanotechnology. a professor at UCLA. enables the immune system to find and However, despite improvements in The substance will have to go through ultimately destroy the cancer cells. may help fight surgical techniques over the past further testing and approvals before it The nanoparticles are made of decade, the cancer often comes back could be used in humans, Gu said. calcium carbonate, a substance that is after the procedure. However, the scientists envision the the main component of egg shells and is Parkinson’s The researchers tested the gel being applied to the tumour often found in rocks. biodegradable spray gel in mice that had resection site by surgeons immediately "We also learned that the gel could cientists have identified a compound in coffee that advanced melanoma tumours surgically after the tumour is removed during activate T cells in the immune system to could be teamed up with caffeine to fight Parkinson's removed. surgery. "This sprayable gel shows get them to work together as another Sdisease and Lewy body dementia—two currently They found that the gel reduced the promise against one of the greatest line of attack against lingering cancer incurable neurodegenerative disorders. growth of the tumour cells that obstacles in curing cancer," Gu said. cells," said Qian Chen, a postdoctoral The discovery, published in the journal Proceedings of the remained after surgery, which helped "One of the trademarks of cancers is researcher in Gu's lab. National Academy of Sciences, suggests these two prevent recurrences of the cancer. that it spreads. In fact, around 90 per Once the solution is sprayed on the compounds combined may become a therapeutic option to After receiving the treatment, 50 per cent of people with cancerous tumours surgical site, it quickly forms a gel slow brain degeneration. cent of the mice survived for at least 60 end up dying because of tumour embedded with the nanoparticles. Prior research has shown that drinking coffee may reduce days without their tumours regrowing. recurrence or metastasis," he said. The gel helps stop at the surgical site the risk of developing Parkinson's disease. The spray not only inhibited the The researchers loaded nanoparticles and promotes would heal; the While caffeine has traditionally been credited as coffee's recurrence of tumours from the area on with an antibody specifically targeted to nanoparticles gradually dissolve and special protective agent, coffee beans contain more than a the body where it was removed, but also block CD47, a protein that cancer cells release the anti-CD47 antibodies into the thousand other compounds that are less well known. controlled the development of tumours release as a "don't-eat-me" signal. body. Source: PTI Researchers from Rutgers University in the US focused on a fatty acid derivative of the neurotransmitter serotonin, called EHT (Eicosanoyl-5-hydroxytryptamide), found in the bean's waxy coating. They found that EHT protects the brains of mice against Vitamin C may offset effects of abnormal protein accumulation associated with Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia. In the current research, the team asked whether EHT and caffeine could work together for even greater brain maternal smoking on baby protection. They gave mice small doses of caffeine or EHT separately lthough smoking during as well as together. pregnancy is reported to have an Each compound alone was not effective, but when given Aadverse effect on foetus health, a together they boosted the activity of a catalyst that helps new study shows that regular intake of prevent the accumulation of harmful proteins in the brain. Vitamin C by smoker mom-to-be may This suggests the combination of EHT and caffeine may be help reduce harm done to infant's lungs able to slow or stop the progression of these diseases. after birth. Current treatments address only the symptoms of The study showed that at three Parkinson's disease but do not protect against brain months of age, infants whose mothers degeneration. took 500 mg of Vitamin C per day in Further research is needed to determine the proper addition to their prenatal vitamin had amounts and ratio of EHT and caffeine required for the significantly better forced expiratory protective effect in people, the scientists said. Source: PTI flows (FEFs) that measure how fast air can be exhaled from the lung and can detect airway obstruction. In addition, the researchers also PAGE SPONSORED BY found an association between the infant FEFs and a genetic variant some of the DR. SATISH AND GITANJLI ANAND mothers possessed that increased the negative impact of nicotine on the and the lifetime effects on offspring who smoking during the study. DR. SATISH ANAND babies before they were born. did not choose to be exposed," McEvoy The researchers mentioned that Former Chairman, Board of "Smoking during pregnancy reflects added. For the study, published in the helping mothers quit smoking should Trustees, AAPI National the highly addictive nature of nicotine American Journal of Respiratory and remain the primary goal for health E-Mail: that disproportionately affects the most Critical Care Medicine, the team professionals and public health officials. [email protected] vulnerable populations," said lead randomly assigned 251 pregnant women "Although vitamin C supplementation author Cindy T. McEvoy, Professor from who smoked, to either receive vitamin C may protect to some extent the lungs of the Oregon Health and Science (125 women) or a placebo (126 women). babies born to mothers who smoke GITANJLI ANAND University in the US. The study also demonstrated that all during pregnancy, those children will Former President, India "Finding a way to help infants exposed participants received counselling still be at greater risk for obesity, Association of Long Island to smoking and nicotine in uterus sessions of discontinuing tobacco behavioural disorders and other serious (IALI) recognises the unique dangers posed by smoking throughout the study, and health issues," the team noted. E-mail: a highly advertised, addictive product about 10 per cent of the women quit Source: IANS [email protected] THE INDIAN PANORAMA 26 SCIENCE & TECH FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 NASA’S INSIGHT SENDS BACK FIRST SELFIE ON MARS

arely two weeks after touching down on Mars, NASA's InSight Blander has taken its first selfie using the spacecraft's robotic arm the US space agency has said. InSight landed safely at Elysium Planitia on Mars on November 26, ARCTIC’S RECORD WARMING kicking off a two-year mission to explore the deep interior of the Red Planet. DRIVING ‘BROAD CHANGE’ On December 6, the InSight lander used a camera on its robotic arm to take IN ENVIRONMENT its first selfie—a mosaic made up of 11 images. The image includes the lander's lobal warming is heating the Arctic at a record pace, solar panel and its entire deck, including driving broad environmental changes across the its science instruments, weather sensor Gplanet, including extreme storms in the mid-latitudes, booms and UHF antenna, NASA said in a major US scientific report said Tuesday. a statement on Wednesday. Persistent heat records have rattled the fragile Arctic for In addition, InSight sent another set of SEIS) and heat-flow probe (known as the piece of ground if it weren't on Mars, each of the past five years, a record-long warming streak, mosaic composed of 52 individual Heat Flow and Physical Properties but we're glad to see that," Banerdt said the 2018 Arctic Report Card, released by the National photos. Package, or HP3) can be placed. added. Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. It showcases the first complete look of "The near-absence of rocks, hills and InSight's landing team deliberately The mounting heat in the north is upsetting typical "workspace"—the approximately 14-by-7- holes means it'll be extremely safe for chose a landing region in Elysium weather patterns, a trend that “coincides” with severe winter foot (4-by-2-metre) crescent of terrain our instruments," said InSight's Planitia that is relatively free of rocks. storms in the eastern United States and an extreme cold snap directly in front of the spacecraft— principal investigator Bruce Banerdt of The spacecraft sits in what appears to in Europe in March, it said. where the spacecraft's instruments such NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in be a nearly rock-free "hollow"—a “Continued warming of the Arctic atmosphere and ocean as seismometer (called the Seismic California. depression created by a meteor impact are driving broad change in the environmental system in Experiment for Interior Structure, or "This might seem like a pretty plain that later filled with sand. Source: IANS predicted and, also, unexpected ways,” warned the report. “New and rapidly emerging threats are taking form and highlighting the level of uncertainty in the breadth of environmental change that is to come.” Google+ hit by Arctic air temperatures for the past five years, from 2014 to WhatsApp for iPhone 2018, “have exceeded all previous records since 1900”, when another major record-keeping began, it said. This warming trend “is unlike any other period on security breach, 52.5 record”, said the peer-reviewed report compiled by 81 now gets new group scientists working for governments and academia in 12 million users affected nations. During the latest period studied, October 2017 through calling button lphabet Inc’s Google said on September 2018, annual average temperature in the Arctic Monday it would shut down was 3.1 Fahrenheit (1.7 Celsius) higher than the 1981-2010 A its Google+ social media average. hatsApp Messenger for iPhone service in April, four months ahead “The year 2018 was the second warmest year on record in has received a new update that of schedule, after finding a software the Arctic since 1900 (after 2016),” it said. Wbrings an easy way to make flaw for the second time this year that The Arctic also saw the second-lowest overall sea-ice group calls. The new development was allowed partner apps to access its coverage and the lowest recorded winter ice in the Bering initially a part of an iOS beta that was users’ private data. Sea. released last month. There is also a new However, Google said in a blog post “One of the more remarkable features of Arctic sea ice in shortcut to make group calls directly that it found no evidence that any 2018 was the dearth of ice in the Bering Sea, which was at a from the New Call screen. As per the other apps had accessed the data, record low extent for virtually the entire 2017-2018 ice official changelog, the latest WhatsApp such as name, email, gender and age, season,” said the report. Source: AFP for iPhone update also brings the ability using the latest bug. It affected 52.5 to play consecutive voice messages in million Google+ accounts, including sequence. This change, however, those of some business customers, debuted alongside the sticker for six days after it was introduced integration back in October. The app last month, Google said. requires an iPhone running iOS 8.0 or The disclosure comes a day before later. Chief Executive Sundar Pichai is set The updated WhatsApp for iPhone to testify before the House Judiciary (version 2.18.110) brings a new group Committee of the US Congress about calling button that sits just next to the Google’s data collection practices. name of the groups once you open the out to iPhone users via TestFlight. Some US lawmakers from both major chat window. This new change gives you In addition to the new group calling political parties have called for new an easier way to make group voice or button, the updated WhatsApp privacy rules to better control video calls. Once tapped the new group Messenger for iPhone has included a Google, Facebook Inc and other large calling button, you'll see a screen from New Group Call shortcut that comes on technology companies. where you can select the members of the New Call screen. The shortcut In October, the company said it the group to whom you'd like to call via essentially works just as the new group would shut down the consumer INSTAGRAM ROLLS OUT VOICE WhatsApp. You can also select whether calling button and has a limit of up to version Google+ in August 2019 you'd like to make a voice call or a video three participants. However, you have because it would be too challenging call. the entire list of the contacts available to maintain the unpopular service. At MESSAGING FEATURE Notably, you'll see only those your address book once you tap the New the time, it said profile data from up f WhatsApp voice messages were not enough, Instagram WhatsApp users on the list after tapping Group Call shortcut, instead of having to 500,000 users might have been has also added the new communication feature to its app. the group calling button whose some group members. exposed to partner apps by a bug that IA new microphone button has been added to the photo numbers are saved in your address Interestingly, WhatsApp for Android was present for more than two years. and video app. You simply need to hold down the microphone book. It is also worth pointing out that is due to add both new group calling- Apps that pull data from Google+ in Instagram Direct and record a voice message. as the native group calling support on focused features. The New Group Call to personalise their own services Unlike WhatsApp where you first choose the recipient, on WhatsApp has a limit of four callers on shortcut was spotted in Android beta with user authorization will lose Instagram you can first record the message and then share it one call, you aren't allowed to add more late last month, but wasn't available for access in 90 days, the company said. with a single contact or group, FastCompany reported. than three people for your group call. users. However, the Facebook-owned Developing Google+ for business Additionally, these voice messages appear in the receiver’s The new group calling button was company is yet to bring the new change customers would remain a focus, it chat window as a Wav file and don’t disappear after being previously spotted in iOS beta version to the public release of the WhatsApp added. listened to. 2.18.110.17. The beta update was rolled app for Android devices. Source: Reuters THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 BIZ & FINANCE 27 NEW RBI GUV SHAKTIKANTA DAS TAKES CHARGE, HAS A LONG TO-DO LIST MUMBAI (TIP): Shaktikanta Das on APPLE PLANS NEW $1 BILLION Dec 12 (Wednesday) assumed charge as the 25th Governor of the Reserve Bank CAMPUS FOR AUSTIN, TEXAS of India. “Assumed charge as Governor, pple Inc said on Thursday it would spend $1 billion to Reserve Bank of India. Thank you each build a second campus in Austin, Texas, that will and everyone for your good wishes,” Das Ahouse up to 15,000 workers as part of a broader push tweeted. by US companies to create more domestic jobs. The new central bank governor has a The iPhone maker also said it plans to expand in Seattle, list of challenges to face as he takes San Diego and Culver City, California, and add hundreds of office: from fixing a banking crisis to jobs in Pittsburgh, New York and Boulder, Colorado, over the convincing investors of the institution’s next three years. autonomy. Apple said at the start of the year it would invest $30 billion Shaktikanta Das, 61, a former in the United States, taking advantage of a windfall from US economic affairs secretary at the President Donald Trump's sweeping tax code overhaul. Finance Ministry, took charge at the The 133-acre campus in Austin will be less than a mile from Reserve Bank of India for a three-year Apple's existing facilities and initially have 5,000 employees. term on Wednesday, two days after Urjit The jobs created would be in engineering, research and Patel quit amid worries that the development, operations and finance. government was encroaching on the Amazon.com Inc in November said it will create more than central bank’s turf. Das, a career 25,000 jobs in both New York and the Washington, D.C. area bureaucrat, is seen as someone who can by opening massive new offices. The two technology ease tensions with the state, prompting a companies chose cities with a wealth of white-collar workers mixed reaction from markets on and high employment, bypassing other regions that may have Wednesday. required more investment. Austin is one of the fastest- Sovereign bonds rallied on optimism Shaktikanta Das assumed charge as the 25th Governor of the Reserve Bank of India. growing US cities with a population of nearly 1 million, and he may shift the monetary policy stance is home to the University of Texas and other tech companies to a less hawkish one, while the rupee, the central bank’s board is due to meet. summits. He will also need to win over including Dell Technologies Inc in nearby Round Rock, Asia’s worst-performer among major The government is expected to push for colleagues at the RBI. Speculation is rife Texas, and IBM. Apple's existing facility in north Austin has currencies this year, weakened. The tighter supervision of the RBI, that Viral Acharya, the deputy governor more than 6,000 workers, the most outside its headquarters in rupee declined for a third day including setting up committees to have in charge of monetary policy and Patel’s Cupertino, California. With the new campus, the company Wednesday, falling as much as 0.4 oversight of various functions, from messenger in the public showdown with will become the largest private employer in the city. percent to 72.1712 against the dollar. foreign exchange management to the government, may step down. It was Source: Reuters “Mr. Das will be initially considered financial stability. he who had delivered a hard-hitting more as a Finance Ministry insider, and A former economic affairs secretary speech in October warning about RBI slaps Rs 1 cr fine on bank for only time will tell whether he preserves from 2015 to 2017, Das worked closely government’s interference in central the RBI’s independence,” said Sonal with the central bank and oversaw banking. That caused friction between violating cyber security norms Varma, an economist at Nomura Plc in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s the authorities and Patel, resulting in Singapore. “Our analysis of his views controversial plan to ban high-value his departure on Monday. NEW DELHI (TIP): The Reserve Bank of India Tuesday suggests that he has a neutral-to-dovish notes in late 2016, an exercise that hurt The government is pushing the RBI to said it has imposed a fine of Rs 1 crore on Indian Bank for bent on monetary policy. We expect the economy and led to thousands of job hand over more of its capital to the violating cyber security norms. regulatory policies under his losses. He is currently a member of the government and loosen curbs on some of The RBI has imposed, by an order dated November 30, 2018, governorship to be more sympathetic to Finance Commission of India, and the weakest banks to ensure lending a monetary penalty of Rs 10 million on Indian Bank for the government’s arguments.” serves as the government’s continues ahead of an election next year. contravention of Circular on Cyber Security Framework in Das’s first test comes on Friday when representative at the Group of 20 Source: Bloomberg banks, the central bank said in a release. The contravention is with regard to RBI’s directions on Frauds- Classification and Reporting by Commercial Banks. “This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers Liquidity constraints faced by NBFIs vested in RBI under the provisions of...the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 taking into account the failure of the bank to adhere to the aforesaid guidelines and directions issued by RBI,” it said. This action is based on deficiencies in to tighten credit supply: Moody’s regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers, the release added. Source: PTI iquidity constraints faced by some non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs) will tighten credit supply and slow Debt-ridden Air India puts its Lgrowth to a little over 7 percent for the current fiscal, Moody's Investors Service said. iconic Mumbai building on sale "The liquidity constraints faced by some NBFIs in India, after the default of Infrastructure Leasing & Financial NEW DELHI (TIP): In a fresh bid to generate funds, loss- Services Ltd (IL&FS) in September 2018, will likely tighten making national carrier Air India has put on sale its iconic overall credit supply in the country," Moody's said in a eponymous 23-storey building in Mumbai’s posh Nariman statement. Point, hoping to mop up nearly Rs 2000 crore, an Air India Besides, any further distress in the NBFI sector will pose official, familiar with the matter, said. significant downside risks to India's growth outlook, it said. The latest move is part of the airline’s plans to monetise its Moody's Managing Director and Chief Credit Officer (Asia real estate assets and come less than a month after it invited Pacific) Michael Taylor said India's GDP growth will slow to bids for over 70 residential and commercial properties spread just above 7 percent for fiscal 2019 and 2020. across the country. The national carrier has issued tender Indian economy grew at 7.1 percent in the July-September inviting bids for the building, which also happens to be the quarter, lower than 8.2 percent in April-June. airline’s erstwhile headquarters. However, only government The rating agency said NBFIs are an important provider of entities are eligible to participate in the bidding process. credit to the economy and, in the fiscal ended March 31, 2018, around half a percentage point over a few years," Moody's VP “Air India will retain approximately 5000 square feet of accounted for nearly 17 percent of total loans and one third of and Senior Analyst Joy Rankothge said. carpet area on 22nd floor for its office use. It will also retain total retail loans. Weaker nominal GDP growth over a prolonged period would the logo on the top of the building and will maintain it. Also, "In a downside scenario, a sharper slowdown in NBFI credit weigh on India's fiscal strength and the overall sovereign the buyer can’t change the name of the building and it will supply would significantly tighten overall credit availability, credit profile, Rankothge added. continue to be called ‘Air India building’,” said another drive up borrowing costs and reduce economic growth by Source: PTI airline official. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 28 ASTROLOGY FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018

Shree Ganeshaya Namah

Bejan Daruwalla is world's most famous astrologertoday. He appears regularly on world wide TV shows. Bejan who has been a professor in English, hasauthored a number of books on astrology. India'sPrime Minister Narendra Modi , on March 29, 2012,lunched one of Bejan's books, '2012- End of theWorld? Bejan contributes to a number of journals andnewspapers in many parts of the world which includeBerkley Communications Bejan Daruwalla is available for astrological (London) Times of India(Delhi, Mumbai, consultations. He can be reached at Kolkata, Chennai) and The IndianPanorama ( [email protected] and on phone New York and Texas). Bejan's predictionshave mostly been correct and 011-91-8141234275 people the world overrely on his predictions. www.bejandaruwalla.com WEEKLY HOROSCOPE DECEMBER 17 - DECEMBER 23, 2018 Aries: Leo: Sagittarius: Ganesha says this is a soft phase. Writers, This is a double whammy.You have the Midas 'Ego is hard to conquer and arises from painters, poets, singers and actors do touch. You cannot go wrong. You have your several factors - wealth, physical prowess, exceedingly well. There are money and finger in the pie. This is a fantastic period for birth, scholarship, beauty, power and honey, rewards and awards, accolades and those in the media and for creative folk in penance. As long as Ahamkara is applause. There could also be soul-stirring general. This is also a good time for those in predominant, it is impossible to recognize love. Your heart strings are pulled, and you business because money will beget money. the divinity within,' said Sai Baba. This is are in the arms of amour. Nothing can pull You can take risks and you won't fall flat on relevant here because your ego drives are you away. You have a slew of goodies in the your face. Like the Bard advised, take the tide very powerful and you will brook no bag. This is a time for love and longing and at the flood and it will lead to fortune. Soon it opposition. You could trample others, and you are past masters in it. Ganesha is will also be your birth period and the this wins you no brownie points. There happy for you. cumulative energies are like a tsunami in could be new love too. Ganesha watches over Taurus: your favor. you. Virgo: Capricorn: Your mind is in a zillion places. There is a lot of movement. You may also be There are fun times spent with the family. You live and love larger than life. Your plans travelling, as distant shores beckon. There You ride the crest of wave. Success is yours are huge and there is no limit to your could be travel for work or even family on a platter. There could be windfalls in the ambitions. You are also capable of working immigration. You want to cross the seven form of an inheritance. In this phase it is best extremely hard and so success in seas and explore like Marco Polo, or you to downplay ego drives and co-operate with guaranteed. You run away from the pack and may be forced to move like the mass others. Teamwork is vital. You are a good hew your own destiny. This is also a period migration of wildebeest for greener team player apart from being a leader of men. for love. You are charged, and want to feel pastures. New vistas open and there is new This comes across clearly now. Group efforts more complete by being with your soul mate. learning. But you have the luck of the and projects are highlighted. You will also be This can be an intensely amorous time. You draw. partying and socializing a lot. want to give and receive love. Gemini: Libra: Aquarius:

I will quote Einstein here. He said, "There Your peace may get disturbed. Watch out for There is powerful intensity at work here. are only two ways to live your life - One as ego drives and accidents. Do not retaliate at You focus on all that is of value to you, on all though nothing is miracle, the other as the slightest provocation. There could be that is close to your core. You examine your though everything is a miracle." There are altercations you would be stepping on toes. It relationship to your resources in a bid to stability and progress. You roll up your will be a good idea to keep a low profile now. fathom how important they are to your life. sleeves and get to work as though your life Relationships run into trouble. There could You realize that if you have control of your depends on it. You gain peer group be separations, even a divorce. These are resources, you also have control over your applause. There is rapid progress and you generalizations, and astrology never life. You spend recklessly in acquiring just love the fragrance of new greenbacks. compels. It is an important energy since it material possessions. There is a windfall in That goads you on to greater ambition. determines how we pursue what we want to this phase. The trends are propitious. Cancer: achieve in life. Ganesha applauds. Scorpio: Pisces: The period is a golden period. Make the most of it. There could be extensive travel 'I never lose sight of the fact that just being is You feel like a scientist, or a detective like and new profitable associations. You will fun,' said Katherine Hepburn, the actress. Sherlock Holmes. There are intense and be making valuable purchases and work You are powered. You move with a new zeal. powerful experiences that teach you about will be on the upswing. There is significant You accomplish miracles and nothing can the inner workings of your life in the improvement in your life and times. You hold you back. There is great growth in the context of the world you inhabit. You delve will get comforts and luxuries, ornaments work front as you sign deals and take on deep into issues and investigate them and money. This is an important phase. projects that seemed out of your reach at threadbare. You look within yourself, at your The self - employed will see massive other times. On the flip side beware of core, at the motivations that spur you on. expansion and the employed will have arguments that could snowball into The transformative energies in this phase promotions and pay hikes. something quite out of proportion. are powerful. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 SPIRITUALITY 29 AVATARS OF LORD SHIVA ord Shiva is considered as the supreme this avatar during the time Lord Rama to God in the Hinduism. For setting up an present a good example of the Lord and Lideal work on the earth in front of his Bhakt in front of the people. creatures, he had taken variety of the avatars Brishabh Avatar and incarnations. Some of his avatars are related to protecting his devotees from the Brishabh avatar is the very significant devils and proud Gods as well. However, five form of the God Shiva. avatars of all his incarnations are hideously Piplaad Avatar important as well as assumed to be the most valuable and effective for his devotees. The Lord Shiva helps their devotees to get free most important five incarnations are: from the Shani Dosha in this form. It is Tatpurush, Namadeva, Aghoresh, Sadhojat considered as the name of this avatar was and Ishan. given by the Lord Brahma. Tatpurush Vaishyanath Avatar Tatpurush is the most popular third This is the main avatar of the Lord Shiva incarnation of the Lord Shiva which was to his devotees. manifested in the 21st Kalpa of the planet Yatinath Avatar known as Peetavasa. It was appeared by the prayer of the Lord Brahma. Yatinath avatar of the God Shiva Naamdeva represents a peaceful form of him to his devotees. During the 20th Kalpa known as the Rakta, Krishna Darshan Avatar Lord Brahma got his complexion changed to a red. Another entity was appeared from him Lord Shiva, in this form had represented of the red complexion, which was name by the significance of the yagya and important him as a Namadeva. It is considered as the religious rituals in Hinduism. Naamdeva was also the incarnation of Lord Awdhuteshwar Avatar Shiva. Aghoresh In this form Lord Shiva had crushed the ego of proud Indra. In the Shiva Kalpa (after the Peetavasa Bhichhuwarya Avatar Kalp), an entity of black color complexion was appeared by the Lord Brahma when he In this form, Lord Shiva protects his all was in deep meditation state. Lord Brahma creatures from any difficulty. named that entity as Aghor Shiva and Sureshwar Avatar considered as another form of Lord Shiva. Sadhojat This form of Lord Shiva represents the love and care of him towards his devotees. During the 19th Kalpa known as Shweta Bramhchari Avatar Lohit, there appeared an entity by the Lord Brahma while he was meditating, which was Lord Shiva had taken this avatar to test the named by him as Sadhojat. It is considered Mata Parvati. When Sati rebirth on the earth that this form of the Lord Shiva was the first to the Himalaya’s house as his daughter, incarnation. Four disciples of the Sadhojat eleven Rudras from the Kashyap wife’s drunk all the Vish to prevent his beautiful Parvati and started worshipping the God were appeared by his own body named (Surabhi) womb. These forms of the eleven world from the bad effects of Vish. Mata Shiva to marry him. Nandan, Vishwanandan, Sunand and Rudras are associated with the battles with Parvati had stopped the Vish to fall below the Sunatnartak Avatar Upanandan. demons in the past in order to save the people neck by putting her palm on his neck. So, this ISHAN and Gods. Following are the name of eleven form of him is known as the Neel kanth avatar. Lord Shiva had taken this form to ask the Rudras: 1) Kapali 2) Pingal 3) Bheem 4) Rishi Durvasha hand of Parvati from her father, Himalaya. In the Vishwaroop Kalpa, Ishan form of Virupaksha 5) Vilohit 6) Shastra 7) Ajapaad 8) Saddhu Avatar the Lord Shiva and Saraswati were Ahirbudhnya 9) Shambhu 10) Chand and 11) It is considered as this avatar of the Lord manifested. Four divine entities like Mundi, Bhav. is the main avatar. He has taken this avatar Lord Shiva had taken Sadhu avatar many Shikhandi, Caste and Ardhamundi were Incarnations of Lord Shiva on the earth to maintain the discipline of the times according to the need of his devotees. manifested from the Ishan Shiva. Lord universe. Vibhuashwathama Avatar Brahma was blessed by all of them for the Apart from all the above incarnations of Mahesh Avatar creation facility. the Lord Shiva, he had taken some other Lord Shiva had taken this avatar in the Eight Idols of the Lord Shiva incarnations which are described as below: Mahesh avatar is also a peaceful form of Mahabharat as Ashwatthama (son Ardhnaarishwar Avatar the Lord Shiva which blesses his devotees. Dronacharya). There are eight idols of the Lord Shiva Hanuman Avatar Kiraat Avatar which includes Ugra, Sharva, Bhava, Rudra, Ardhnaarishwar form of the Lord Shiva Bheema, Pashupati, Ishan and Mahadeva. includes half body of Lord Shiva and other Hanuman avatar is considered as the Lord Shiva, in this form had taken the test Ten fastidious incarnations of the God Shiva half of the Mata Parvati. This form is very supreme avatar of him. Lord Shiva has taken of Arjuna. known as Dash Avatar and 10 incarnations of calm and peaceful, provides blessings to the the Mata Sakti known as the Dash devotees. PAGE SPONSORED BY Mahavidya. Describing concerning to the 10 Nandi Avatar incarnations and their corresponding power ARISH K. SAHANI (Shakti), the first incarnation of Lord Shiva Lord Shiva had taken lots of avatars on the was the Mahakal and Shakti was Mahakali. earth according to the requirement for their Serving Since 1972 Second incarnation of both of them was Tar devotees. Nandi avatar is one of all the Please Call or Write for Your Insurance Needs and Tara. Third incarnation of both of them avatars. Arish K Sahani (Father) was Bhuvaneshwar and Bhuvaneshwari. Sharabh Avatar Fourth incarnation was Shodash and Shodashi or Shri. Fifth incarnation was This form of the Lord Shiva was the 6th Shiv Sahani (Son) Bhairav and Bhairavi. The sixth incarnation avatar of him. Priya Sahani Sood (Daughter) was Chhinamastak and Chhinamasta. Grihpati Avatar Seventh incarnation was Dhoomvan and Dhoomvati. The eighth incarnation was Grihpati avatar of the Lord Shiva was the 7 1 8 - 2 7 1 - 1 9 0 6 Baglamukh and Baglamukhi. The ninth 7th avatar of him. [email protected] incarnation was Matang and Matangi. Tenth Neel Kanth incarnation was Kamal and Kamala. “If Hindus don’t maintain Hinduism, who shall save it?” Rudra Avatars Neel Kanth avatar is also a main form of him. Once there was arisen a lot of Vish from “If India’s own children don't cling to their faith, who shall guard it?” Lord Shiva took birth on the earth as the the churning of the ocean. Lord Shiva had “Indians alone can save India, and India and Hinduism are one.” THE INDIAN PANORAMA 30 PERSPECTIVE FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 Honor Sardar Patel, don’t forget Gandhi and Nehru

Honoring a pillar of Indian democracy is a good thing. However, can we forget the other pillars? Can a building stand without all the pillars in its place? By George Abraham

It is quite confusing for an ordinary Indian to figure out the motivation for the Prime Minister to honor a devoted Congressman and freedom fighter who is a Gujarati ahead of another great leader from the state: Mohandas rime Minister Narendra Modi world are adorned with his statues. was Sardar Patel who was instrumental in Karamchand inaugurated the world's tallest statue of Then there was Jawaharlal Nehru, the first banning the RSS. He subsequently wrote to PSardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man prime minister, and architect of modern India RSS chief M.S. Golwalkar on September 11, of India, who was the first home minister, on who spent almost ten years in prison under 1948: 'As regards to RSS and Hindu Gandhi. his 143rd birth anniversary in Gujarat the British and was considered the foremost Mahasabha, our reports do confirm that as a recently. The country has spent about Rs 3000 leader in the freedom struggle. It should be result of the activities of these two bodies, Nevertheless, to crore (about $430 million) from the treasury remembered that Patel's heroic effort for particularly the former, an atmosphere was on the monument, which is being promoted as national integration was conducted under created in the country in which such ghastly the world, Gandhi, a Statue of Unity. It reflects Patel's efforts Nehru's leadership. Nehru inherited an India tragedy became possible.' after Independence to consolidate the princely where life expectancy was 31 years, only 20 It is known that the RSS remained aloof states into the current Republic of India. percent of the people could read or write, and during the freedom struggle. The words and Nehru, and Patel We owe it ourselves to remember our 80 per cent of the people could not afford two deeds of erstwhile leaders of the RSS from heroes and icons of history and it is also the meals a day. recorded history indicate that they were not will remain great legacy of these legends that motivates us to go It was Nehru along with B.R. Ambedkar only non-participants in the freedom struggle forward. Our lives are indeed built upon the who built institutions that have continued to in which hundreds of people were risking icons of freedom shoulders of these giants who went through provide freedom, justice, and opportunities to their lives every day but also collaborators immeasurable hardships to guarantee us the every Indian citizen regardless of caste, who supported the British on critical and justice, and freedom and liberty we enjoy today. creed, region or religion. However, today, the occasions. The British acknowledged that the Nobody questions the wisdom of honoring ruling BJP is engaged in running a bitter RSS had 'scrupulously kept itself within the Sardar Patel. However, they will be hard- campaign to undo and discredit his legacy of law, and refrained from taking part in the the height of the pressed to explain how in a country that ranks secularism and inclusiveness. It would be a disturbances that broke out in August 1942.' at the bottom of the list of nations in ensuring grave injustice to forget Nehru's significant Therefore, it is quite confusing for an statues will not food security for its people could afford such a role in building a post-independent ordinary Indian to figure out the motivation luxury. According to the latest report on the democratic society and imbuing it with pride for the Prime Minister to honor a devoted diminish their Global Hunger Index, India ranks 100 out of and purpose at a time of conflict and chaos. Congressman and freedom fighter who is a 119 on an index that weighs the ability of Sardar Patel was a loyal Congressman who Gujarati ahead of another great leader from greatness one way countries to provide food for its citizens. India upheld the values and principles of the the state: Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. fares worse than Iraq, Bangladesh, and North Congress party which he served throughout Nevertheless, to the world, Gandhi, Nehru, or the other. Korea. his . Since the ascendance of the BJP to power and Patel will remain great icons of freedom Then again, if we were to build the tallest in New Delhi four years ago, it appears that a and justice, and the height of the statues will statue for anyone, the first name on anybody's carefully crafted strategy is in place to not diminish their greatness one way or the list would be of Mahatma Gandhi, who is not appropriate icons and legacies that the party other. only the father of the nation but also world- is sorely lacking. It is as if the party is so (The author is a former Chief Technology renowned for his philosophy of non-violence. embarrassed by the lack of pedigree that it is Officer of the United Nations and Vice- Gandhi was considered a great inspiration for even willing to go out and create some history Chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress, world leaders such as Nelson Mandela and of its own. USA) Martin Luther King Jr and many cities in the After Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated, it THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 CLASSIFIEDS 31

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Compensation will be based on experience with up to 40% for more news, views & revenue created by the individual. reviews log on to Anyone who would like to work with us part time and on www.theindianpanorama.news the basis of revenue sharing may email to [email protected] or contact at 646-247-9458. THE INDIAN PANORAMA 32 MISCELLANY FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 Trump inaugural Bomb threats emailed to multiple locations across the country committee under NEW YORK (TIP): Dozens of businesses and institutions across the United States and Canada received email threats Thursday, December 13 afternoon, prompting evacuations and sweeps of buildings. At this time it's unclear if the threats -- which have been received in San Francisco, New York, criminal investigation: Seattle, Miami, Washington, DC and other locations nationwide -- are connected. The FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said they are aware of the threats and are working with law enforcement to provide assistance. Wall Street Journal "As always, we encourage the public to remain vigilant and to promptly report suspicious activities which could represent a threat to public safety," the FBI said. Email threats also have been received in Vancouver, Ottowa and Toronto, Canada. This email demanding $20,000 via Bitcoin was forwarded to CNN affiliate KOCO-TV in Oklahoma City by a viewer who received it at her business. It's unclear whether everyone who received a threat on Thursday received the same email. The message was identical to an email warning posted on social media by the Cedar Rapids, Iowa Police Department and similar to descriptions of other threats posted on social media nationwide. The Cedar Rapids Police Department posted: "The Police Department has found NO CREDIBLE EVIDENCE that these emails are authentic. It appears to be a robo-email that has been sent throughout the area hoping to scam businesses out of money. We have also received information that businesses in surrounding counties may have also received this email." CNN is not disclosing the names of the sender and recipient or specifics of the Bitcoin account. Threats at universities, media, courthouse In Seattle, the University of Washington noted in a campus-wide alert that the FBI had "advised that the email is not a credible threat." The university concluded sweeps of possibly affected buildings. The Thurston County Courthouse in Olympia, Washington and the Park Record newspaper in Park City, Utah also received similarly threatening emails. People have been allowed back inside buildings at those locations, according to tweets on their verified Twitter accounts. In California, the Riverside Sheriff's Office had "an influx of email threats" and is taking them seriously, although no threat has been substantiated. The San Francisco Police Department responded to reports of bomb threats at locations throughout the city. CNN Screenshot "We have received information that several other cities across the United States have received similar threats," police said. WASHINGTON (TIP): President Donald Trump's 2017 inaugural committee is Pennsylvania State Police are "investigating some bomb threats in the eastern part of the state," a currently being investigated by federal prosecutors in New York for possible spokesman for the department tells CNN. financial abuses related to the more than $100 million in donations raised for the "Penn State University Police, in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, is event, The Wall Street Journal reported Thursday, December 13. investigating a message received by individuals in multiple locations on campus and across the state," Citing conversations with people familiar with the investigation, which is the university said in a statement. "Police say this does not appear to be a legitimate threat, however, being handled by the US Attorney's office in Manhattan, the Journal reported an investigation is ongoing." that prosecutors are also looking into whether the committee accepted donations University police later said the threat appears to be a hoax. from individuals looking to gain influence or access to the new administration. The Chicago Police Department received 15 to 20 reports of emailed threats in the past few hours, The paper notes that "giving money in exchange for political favors" is illegal, according to Officer Jennifer Bryk. as is misuse of any donated funds. The committee was registered as a nonprofit. Director of Communications Anthony Guglielmi tweeted, "#ChicagoPolice are working with federal According to the Journal, sources told the paper that the investigation "partly partners on the investigation, and at this time there is no elevated threat level for the city of Chicago." arises out of materials seized in the federal probe of former Trump lawyer Threats were also emailed to the Charlotte News & Observer and the Raleigh News & Observer Michael Cohen's business dealings." newspapers in North Carolina. Dozens more threats continued to come in across the country later into the day,authorities reported. (Source: Wall Street Journal) (Source: CNN) contd from page 1 In the last few weeks, Gabbard has been talking to her party Daljit Singh Cheema said. leaders and reaching out to Indian-Americans to get their Cheema said the process of making major changes in the feedback on the issue. organizational structure of the party had been going on in the BJP Loses Hindi Heartland... Among those Democrats speculated to run for the 2020 wake of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. Front (MNF) scripting a spectacular victory dislodging the primaries include former Vice-President Joe Biden, Senators "New organizational structure will be announced in the next Congress in its last bastion in the Northeast to return to power Elizabeth Warren, Kirsten Gillibrand, Amy Klobuchar, Tim two months after having extensive deliberation with the senior after 10 years. Kaine and Indian-origin Senator Kamala Harris. (Source: leadership of the party," he said. (With inputs from PTI) Buoyed by the Congress' good showing in the polls that was PTI) dubbed as a semi-final for the 2019 general elections, party Trump's ex-lawyer gets 3-yr... president Rahul Gandhi said the outcome is a "clear message" Court orders FIR against Manjit... to the Modi government that people are not happy with it and Cohen said in his guilty plea in August he was directed by time has come for a change. Subedar and joint secretary Amarjit Singh Pappu for alleged Trump to make hush money payments to two women who said Prime Minister Narendra Modi got a massive mandate but financial irregularities in gurdwara committee. they had sexual affairs with Trump in the past. refused to listen to "heartbeat of the country", Gandhi told The court pronounced the order on a petition of Gurmeet Trump has denied the affairs and any involvement in the reporters. Singh Shanty who alleged that the accused had embezzled Rs payments. With Congress set to form governments in Chhattisgarh, 51 lakh from the gurdwara fund. Shanty alleged that a fake bill The three-year sentence was a modest reduction from the Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, Gandhi said the selection of of 82,000 books of Sikh heritage and a fake bill of safari suit four to five years recommended under federal guidelines, but chief ministers in the three states will be done "smoothly". "We were also submitted by the accused. still underscored the seriousness of the charges of violating have defeated the BJP in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Shanty had first lodged a complaint with North Avenue campaign finance laws and seeking to influence the outcome of Chhattisgarh... There will be no issue over (selection of) chief police station. an election. minister. It will be done smoothly." When police allegedly failed to lodge the FIR, Shanty filed a Pauley sentenced Cohen to 36 months for the payments and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said the results were petition in the court. After getting the case investigated, the to two months for Cohen's lies to Congress about a proposed certainly not as expected and asserted the poll outcome was an court, on December 13, ordered for registration of the FIR. Trump Tower project in Russia. The two terms will run opportunity to pause and analyze. (With Inputs from PTI) The court also ordered the police to appear before the court simultaneously. on December 14. The judge set March 6 for Cohen's voluntary surrender. As ‘Seriously’ considering running... Manjit Singh GK was president of the Delhi unit of the SAD part of the sentence, the judge ordered Cohen to forfeit $500,000 and Manjinder Singh Sirsa was the youth president. and pay restitution of nearly $1.4 million. USA. Also, she could be the youngest ever and first woman Meanwhile, ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, SAD Cohen pleaded guilty in August to charges including tax to be elected as the US President. chief Sukhbir Singh Badal on Thursday, December 13, evasion, bank fraud and campaign finance violations in a case "I'm concerned about the direction of our country. I'm dissolved the party units in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and brought by federal prosecutors in New York. thinking through it very carefully," she said in response to a Rajasthan with immediate effect. Cohen was sentenced on a separate charge of lying to question on her presidential run. The decision, aimed at overhauling the state units, was Congress brought by Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who is Before challenging President Donald Trump in the taken based on suggestions by party observers for the two investigating Russia's role in the 2016 election and possible November 2020 elections, she would have to contest against her states and the national capital - MPs Balwinder Singh Bhundar coordination between Trump's campaign and Moscow. own Democratic Party colleagues in primary elections and Prem Singh Chandumajra, and former minister Sikandar (Source: Reuters) beginning early that year. Singh Maluka, SAD senior vice-president and spokesperson THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 TRAVEL 33 KOLKATA: CULTURAL HUB OF INDIA

he former British capital of India boasts of an illustrious past which Treflects through the fascinating art, marvellous architecture, and declamatory literature of the city. Being the cultural and intellectual hub of India, this vibrant city invites you to witness its artistic grandeur, dazzling culture, and literary legacy through an exhilarating Kolkata sightseeing tour. Apart from its rich history, and ancient culture, here are some of the best places to visit in Kolkata which form an essential part of the city’s tourism. Victoria Memorial Spread over 57 acres of land, housing 21 lush green gardens, 28,394 artefacts, and 3,900 artistic paintings, Victoria memorial is one of the best places to visit in Kolkata. Built in the memory of Queen Victoria, this white marble beauty is a host to 20 lakhs annual visitors. Fort William Situated on the eastern banks of Hooghly river, Fort Williams is a huge building from the colonial era that has served multiple purposes till date. It is one of the few Kolkata points of interest which is a must visit place during your Kolkata sightseeing tour. Known as the ‘black hole of Calcutta’, this place was once a temporary jail where prisoners were hauled, but now it serves as the headquarters of the Eastern Command. Located along the western banks of River Ganga, Botanical Garden is a 273 acre garden Marble Palace known for its extensive floral diversity. This nineteenth century palatial mansion Housing more than 12,000 different species of in North Kolkata, is one of the most visited plants, it is one of the most beautiful places tourist places in Kolkata. It is one of the best to see in Kolkata for travelers who wish to restored royal family palaces in India that witness the mesmerising beauty of nature. boasts of artistic statues, elegant glassware, and noteworthy paintings of illustrious Aquatica artists of the British Raj. Spread across a huge 75,000 square feet area. Aquatica is one of the largest water Howrah Bridge amusement parks in Eastern India. For A Kolkata sightseeing tour is truly people who seek light hearted adventure incomplete without visiting the ‘Harbour along with some fun filled activities, Bridge of India’, the Howrah Bridge. Titled Aquatica is one of the best places to visit in as the ‘oldest but the busiest’ place in Kolkata with friends where one can enjoy Kolkata, the Howrah Bridge was built over numerous thrilling rides and activities. the Hooghly river to ensure connectivity between the two major cities of Kolkata and Nicco Park Howrah. One of the best places to visit in Kolkata, Nicco Park is an exhilarating amusement Tagore’s House park developed for the sole purpose of Known as the ‘Jorasanko Thakur Bari’, recreational activities for families. It is one of Tagore’s house is one of the most important the oldest amusement parks in Kolkata that historical places in Kolkata. The former houses various adventurous, and fun filled residence of India’s most renowned rides for children as well as adults where literaries, Rabindranath Tagore, is now they can spend some rejuvenating time with converted into a museum which houses a their families. photo gallery, fascinating paintings, and Tagore’s literary works. Dakshineswar Kali Temple Located in the Dakshineswar town of Sunderbans Kolkata, the Dakshineswar Kali Temple is a The most famous Kolkata tourist spot, popular pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Sunderbans is one of the natural wonders of Kali. It is one of the must visit places to visit the world. Listed as a UNESCO World in Kolkata in one day as one cannot afford to Heritage Site, Sunderbans is a part of the miss out on this architectural masterpiece world’s largest delta formed by the Ganges, which is also considered as one of the holiest Brahmaputra, and Meghna. It is also the places in the city. largest Tiger reserve, and national park in India. Kalighat Kali Temple Seek blessings from Goddess Kali during Rabindra Sarovar your trip to Kolkata when you visit the Previously known as Dhakuria lake, mystical Kali Temple. It is one of the best Rabindra Sarovar is an artificial lake in places to visit in Kolkata to get familiar with Kolkata. It is one of the best places to visit in the culture, traditions, and religious beliefs Kolkata if you are looking for a quiet, and of the people of this beautiful city. peaceful time. Every morning one would find the best places to visit in Kolkata for people known for its magnificent architecture. This numerous people jogging, or walking along St. Paul’s Cathedral seeking a religious tour. temple is an epitome of craftsmanship that is the shores of the lake. It is also a perfect spot Known for its Gothic style of architecture, a product of amalgamation of traditional, for nature admirers who wish to get close to St. Paul’s Cathedral is the largest cathedral Birla Mandir and contemporary art, and is also one of the the beauty of nature. in Kolkata. Resembling closely to Norwich Built by the renowned Birla family, Birla best places to visit in Kolkata. Cathedral,St Paul’s Cathedral is also one of Mandir is a famous Hindu Temple in Kolkata Botanical Gardens THE INDIAN PANORAMA 34 SPORTS FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 INDIA KNOCKED OUT AFTER LOSING TO NETHERLANDS IN QUARTERFINAL

BHUBANESWAR (TIP): India's 43-year-long wait to reach the semi-finals of the Hockey World Cup was prolonged by the Netherlands as they beat the hosts 2-1 on Thursday at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. World No.4 Netherlands were clearly the better team as they dominated the hosts from the very beginning. After scoring one in the first quarter, another goal from Mink van der Weerden in the fourth quarter doubled the Netherlands lead, virtually leaving India out of contention. However, India tried to claw their way back in the game but the Netherlands were too strong for them. Both sides started with a bang in an eventful first quarter that witnessed Akashdeep putting the hosts ahead in the 12th minute with a brilliant reverse flick after the initial penalty corner attempt was parried by the Dutch goalkeeper. The visitors pulled off a stunning equaliser just before the end of the first quarter, thanks to Thierry hitting the box to make it 1- 1. The second half saw both teams battling for the lead even as the tourists managed to keep possession of the ball on most occasions, only to return to the dug out locked at 1-1 by half time. On resumption, the tourists earned three back-to-back PC's but India blocked away all of them even as the hosts were goalkeeper. Wednesday. temporarily reduced to 10 men after Hardik was shown the From there on, the Dutch defence did not allow any room to green card towards the end of the quarter. the home side as the tie ended in a heartbreak for the BELGIUM DOWN GERMANY 2-1 With both sides desperate for the lead, the Netherlands vociferous home crowd. TO ENTER MAIDEN SEMIFINAL started the final quarter by successfully converting their The Dutch side will meet Australia in the semi-finals on They may not have much of a hockey history to boast about fourth PC to make it 2-1. Saturday. but are surely on the lookout to create some. World No.3 It was in the 50th minute, when Van Der Weerden hit the ball Earlier, Olympic silver medallists Belgium edged out two- Belgium stormed into the semi-finals of the World Cup to set dead straight only to find India's custodian PR Sreejesh wrong time champions Germany 2-1 in a keenly contested quarter- up a clash against England after earning a come from behind footed as the ball found the target. final. 2-1 victory against two-time champions Germany at the With 10 minutes to go, India were once again penalised after In a neck and neck fight, third ranked Belgium held their Kalinga Stadium here on Thursday. Amit Rohidas was shown the yellow card but the Manpreet nerves and came back from a goal down to enter the semi-finals It was a pure case of Belgian strikers against the German Singh-led side kept pressing for the equaliser. for the first time. defence throughout 60 minutes as the 2016 Rio Olympics silver In the next minute, India had a golden opportunity to square Belgium will face a resurgent England in the semi-final, who medallists entered their maiden semi-finals in the history of things off but Harmanpreet's shot was saved by the Dutch had defeated Argentina 3-2 in the first quarter-final on the quadrennial event. BWF World Tour Finals: PV Sindhu Ashwin, Rohit out snaps six-match losing streak with injury he invincibility needed to be the Olympics on the back of a ruckusing, broken, and it was inevitably PV triggered by disagreements with her TSindhu who channeled her vintage federation. She wears two different sized Olympic confidence and funneled shoes on her feet, and the confusion arose renewed maturity into her approach, to from the federation’s insistence on get past World No. 1 Tai Tzu Ying at the making her wear the official sponsors’ World Tour Finals in Guangzhou. The 14- shoes, while she needed a customised 21, 21-16, 21-18 victory in the tough group pair. “Too tall, too strong,” Tai Tzu was match ended a 6-match losing streak left saying, dazed after her loss at Rio. against the dominant shuttler from The Guangzhou win for Sindhu was far Chinese Taipei, whom the Indian had more well-rounded. swept past in the pre-quarters of the Rio Nothing amplified the enormity of the Olympics. Tai Tzu looked in visible challenge better than Tai Tzu rushing to discomfort in her movements, but Sindhu immersed herself in getting stronger and 19-14 in the opener. It was one of Tai Tzu’s showed focus to get the job done, and tightened her game and temperament in outrageous shots — body turned back PERTH (TIP): Key spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and reverse the tide that had been weighing the last two years. Four of Sindhu’s past 6 from the net, the wrist flicking the shuttle batsman Rohit Sharma were today ruled out of the second her down against arguably the toughest losses have come in straight sets, with the back magically to soar to the lead, Test due to injuries. Rohit jarred his lower back while fielding opponent on the circuit. Indian getting a marginal look-in at pocketing the first set. To compound during India’s win in Adelaide and is undergoing treatment, The Guangzhou courts played Australia in June 2017. At Guangzhou, matters, Sindhu would offer an unforced while Ashwin, who took 6/149 in the first Test, is unavailable notoriously slow, but PV Sindhu — wisened from reverses, Sindhu was ready error to hand her opponent the set at 21- due to a left-sided abdominal strain. Prithvi Shaw, who missed through the course of her five big finals for the champion. To be sure, she has had 14. While Sindhu’s second set aggression the first Test after injuring his ankle while fielding during a across the world — has proven that she to dramatically alter her game while was a throwback to the Rio match, it tour match, is also recovering. can master any condition, and remain beating her. At Rio, Sindhu towered over needed more than her down the line “The team management is closely monitoring these players undeterred by the sluggish shuttle that’s Tai Tzu, using her power game. smashes to level things on the court. and a call on their availability for the third test will be taken tough to kill. The 24-year-old World No. 1, Tai Tzu hadn’t been as fit back then, Starting at 6-3, Sindhu would clinically at an appropriate time,” a BCCI statement said. Hanuma also the Asian games champion, has been tended to play the charming game more push Tai Tzu back even as she threatened Vihari has been named in place of Rohit and left-arm spin particularly difficult to get past since she than the gritty one, and was coming into to close in at 10-12. bowler Ravindra Jadeja replacing Ashwin. THE INDIAN PANORAMA FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 ADVERTISEMENT 35 THE INDIAN PANORAMA 36 ADVERTISEMENT FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018