23 Vol 6 Epaper

The South Asian Times
e x c e l l e n c e i n j o u r n a l i s m
Vol.6 No. 23 September 28-October 4, 2013 60 Cents New York Edition Follow us on TheSouthAsianTimes.info
Fears rise of govt shutdown and default on US debt

Wa s h i n g t o n : H o u s e Republicans on Thursday refused to give in to President Barack Obama's demand for straightforward bills to run the government beyond September 30 and to raise borrowing limit to avoid a historic default. In a direct challenge to Obama, they said they will Republican Senator Ted Cruzs 21-hour seek not only a filibuster speech opposing Obamacare delayed one-year delay in voting on the spending bill in the Senate. the full implementation of healthcare law known as Republican wish-list of tax meas"Obamacare" in return for raising ures, energy bills, regulatory prothe debt ceiling, but also seek a Continued on page 4
The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh being welcomed on his arrival Sept 26 at Andrews Air Force Base, MD, for bilateral meeting with the US and to speak at UN General Assembly on Sept 28.
Terror attack in Kashmir, Manmohan will still meet Sharif

New Delhi/Srinagar: Four soldiers, six policemen and two civilians were killed in Jammu and Kashmir Thursday in an audacious terror attack that also left three militants presumably from Pakistan dead. Furious over the nine hours of mayhem, the BJP asked Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to call off his talks with his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif in New York on Sept 29. But he vowed to go ahead with the meeting. The heavily armed guerrillas first barged into a police station in Jammu region, killing eight people, and then drove off with a truck to attack an army base where they shot dead an officer and Pakistan PM three soldiers. Nawaz Sharif: peace C h i e f prospects Minister Omar dim again Abdullah hoped Continued on page 4
Will seek to deepen strategic ties with US: PM

USA Inc. decries Indias discriminatory trade practices
Washington: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said his visit here would focus on reviewing and seeking to deepen strategic ties with the US. Speaking after landing here Thursday on a two day visit, the Prime Minister added, "US is an important trade partner of India and we look forward to strengthening this relationship". He will hold his third summit meeting with President Barack Obama at the White House Friday. He is accompanied by Continued on page 4
Dr J. Ganesh Bhat (3rd from left) is crowned at the award ceremony.
Dr Bhat honored as King of Queens

By Parveen Chopra Flushing, NY: Dr J. Ganesh Bhat, Co-Founder, Atlantic Dialysis Management Services (ADMS), was honored here as King of Queens Thursday for his outstanding leadership and contributions to the community. He was among 28 top businessmen and achievers recognized at the 6th Kings of Queens: A Champions Breakfast Awards & Continued on page 4
President Obama: Indo-US ties hit a bump.
Op Ed 14
Festival 18
Humor 28
Spiritual Awareness 30
excellence in journalism
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September 28-October 4, 2013
TRISTATE COMMUNITY
Smriti Irani urges Indian diaspora to actively Modi asks Indians abroad to support Mission 2014: BJP 272+ help BJP win power
Tampa, FL: Comparing the upcoming 2014 parliamentary poll to the one in 1977 after the 18-month emergency rule, BJP's prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi reached out to Indian diaspora seeking its help to win power. "Like 1977, 2014 will be the voice of the people," said the Gujarat chief minister addressing the annual national convention of OFBJP at Tampa, Florida Saturday through satellite video. Modi, standing against a saffron screen with the party's lotus symbol, spoke in Hindi for over an hour. His speech was telecast live on TV Asia across USA, Canada, Europe, and India. The theme of the conference is "Mission 2014: BJP 272+", a reference to the party's ambition to secure absolute majority on its own in the 543 member Lok Sabha. "The elections after Emergency were not fought by leaders or parties," Modi said. "Neither did papers and pundits influence. It was people's voice!" Asking Indians abroad to dream about everyone's progress and development as the solution to all problems, he said: "This election is
Narendra Modi addressed OFBJP meet through satellite video.
Smriti Irani, BJP national Vice President, with OFBJP leaders.
Tampa, Fl: Smriti Irani, BJP national Vice President, inaugurated the annual national convention of Overseas Friends of BJP USA on September 20 at India Cultural Center here. Over 150 delegates including members of the National Council and Executive Committee, and Advisory Council from OFBJPs 22 chapters in USA assembled to brainstorm and evolve an effective strategy to achieve the goal of Mission 2014: a clear majority for the BJP in the next Parliamentary elections. Over 500 people attended the inaugural
session on Friday evening. Smriti Irani, well-known TV personality, highlighted the achievements of Gujarat government under its visionary Chief Minister, Narendra Modi. She said Modi has brought good governance on the national electoral agenda. She said that a person who used to sell tea in his early childhood at railway platform became chief minister, and now prime ministerial candidate of BJP tells something of the personal discipline, hard work, dedication and commitment to serve India and hard work of
Narendra Bhai. She added that people of India are looking forward to elect NDA government headed by Modi and usher in Indias all round development and good governance and bringing her to the top echelons in the international arena. The conference convener and President Elect Chandrakant Patel acted as emcee and President Jayesh Patel welcomed the delegates. The audience was enthralled by the noted poet Shri Gajendra Solanki with his well-recognized patriotic songs and poetry.
not about any post but to wipe the tears of the poor." "Individuals are small, they come and go, the nation is eternal," Modi said asking the party cadre to "work very hard as only six months are left for the elections." Modi also asked all Indian passport holders abroad to register as voters saying the information was available on the party's India 272 website. "A question is asked who can rid India of the current problems? And the answer comes that BJP can do that," he said asserting National Democratic Alliance governments led by BJP have created trust in the minds of the people.
Family says Anmol Sarna was sexually assaulted

New Delhi: Family members and dozens of friends of NRI student Anmol Sarna Sunday staged a protest outside Kalkaji Police Station here demanding a CBI inquiry into his death and alleged that he was sexually assaulted before his death. Sarna, 21, died Sep 13 after allegedly consuming drugs at a party in a friend's flat and being beaten up by two security guards in a south Delhi apartment complex. Anmol's father Anil Sarna said: "Police are not trying to investigate why Anmol tried to run away from the building." "Police are saying he died because of drugs... why are they not investigating the reason behind the three-inch cut on his head, found in the post mortem," he said. Anmol died in a hospital where he was taken after being found bleeding and unconscious in South Park Apartments complex. He was allegedly beaten up by two security guards when he created ruckus after taking a drug overdose at the party. His autopsy said he died due to shock and hemorrhage caused by head injuries. There were injuries on his private parts also. Sarna, who completed his high school from New York, was to return to Canada for further studies but died after the drug party.
Columbia professor Prabhjot Singh
Attacked US Sikh professor to dispel notions about community

University, who was attacked Saturday evening in Harlem. The teenagers surrounded him on bicycles, pulling his beard and punching him. Shortly after the incident a Muslim woman was attacked a few blocks away. "So I want to continue working to show that core American values are core Sikh values as well," said Singh. "Most importantly, I want it so that my one-year-old has nothing to fear in this neighborhood." State and federal law enforcement authorities in New York City are investigating the attack as an alleged hate crime, according to two community organizations, the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF) and the Sikh Coalition. An ambulance rushed Singh to Mt. Sinai Hospital, where he also works as a resident physician, SALDEF said. Singh was hospitalized with displaced teeth, severe bruising and swelling, a small puncture in his elbow, and a possible fracture in his lower jaw. By Sunday evening, he was resting after surgery. The two community organizations have called on law enforcement officials, including the New York Police Hate Crimes Task Force and the FBI, to conduct a thorough investigation of the attack. According to Sikh Coalition community surveys, 10 percent of respondents in New York City and the San Francisco Bay Area have experienced bias-based assaults or property damage because of their Sikh identity.
New York: A Sikh professor who was attacked over the weekend by a large group of teenagers shouting "get Osama" and "terrorist" wants to show core American and Sikh values are the same. "It's clear that the associations between beards and turbans and terrorism are devastating for an entire community," said Prabhjot Singh, assistant professor at Columbia
TURN PAGE
Terror attack in Kashmir... Continued from page 1 the killings would not derail the India-Pakistan talks on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. "The PM is in a hurry to start a dialogue with Pakistan," BJP president Rajnath Singh said. "There should be no talks with Pakistan unless there is a conducive environment." But Manmohan Singh said that "such attacks will not deter us and will not succeed in derail our efforts to find a resolution to all problems through a process of dialogue". In an obvious reference to Pakistan, he said: "We are firmly resolved to combat and defeat the terrorist menace that continues to receive encouragement and reinforcement from across the border." The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi also pressed for the talks. "It is imperative that senseless act of violence do not deter us from pursuing a path to a better future for our peoples," a statement from the mission said. Will seek to deepen strategic... Continued from page 1 National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon and Foreign Secretary Sujatha Singh. Ahead of the visit, the US Senate passed a unanimous resolution welcoming him while making a plea for "further liberalization" to "bring increased prosperity to both countries". Corporate America too mounted an offensive about what it called India's "discriminatory" trade practices with 18 business organizations under the umbrella of Alliance for Free Trade with India (AFTI) dashing off a letter to President Obama. The letter urged Obama to take up the issue with Manmohan
Singh saying "India's discriminatory trade policies put American businesses at a disadvantage, place manufacturing jobs at risk, and jeopardize India's ability to grow its economy". A senior Obama administration official previewing the visit said corporate America's concerns about doing business in India will be the "centerpiece for discussions" Friday between the two leaders. Fears rise of govt shutdown... Continued from page 1 posals and spending cuts that Democrats have already refused to endorse. The President has said Obamacare is not negotiable. Treasury Secretary Jack Lew has informed Congress that the government will exhaust its borrowing authority by October 17, after which it could default on its loans. The move does not bode well for prompt resolution of these fiscal battles that could lead to a government shutdown on October 1 and a default in midOctober. Precious time will be consumed on both issues as they bounce back and forth between the Republican-controlled House and the Democratic Senate, with each party anxious to make the other look uncompromising and thus responsible for any economic damage that might occur. Furthermore, House Republicans will not accept a temporary government spending bill the Senate is poised to pass Friday to avert federal agency shutdowns, House Speaker John Boehner warned. In a government shutdown, agencies like the FBI, Education Department, Defense Department and Environmental Protection Agency would have to limit their operations on October 1, the first day of the new fiscal year. While Social Security retirement checks would go out, there coul be delays due to a lack of workers. The political fighting over raising the $16.7 trillion debt limit prompted Doug Elmendorf, the head of the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, to warn Congress: "Defaulting on any obligation of the U.S. government would be a dangerous gamble." If the dire warning sounded familiar, that is because this marks the fourth major standoff between House Republicans and Obama over fiscal issues since 2011, when they began tangling over spending cuts, tax hikes and rising government borrowing. Dr Bhat honored as King of ... Continued from page 1 Networking Event at the Terrace on the Park presented by Queens Courier & Queens Business publications. The event includes a business expo. Dr Bhat is on the board of New York State Public Health and Health Planning Council for a six year term. His ADMS is a dialysis chain with 13 affiliates on Long Island and in NYC. ADMS has recently been awarded long-term citywide contract by the New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation for the privatization of dialysis care and services. Two other Indian Americans were honored as Kings of Queens at the 2013 event: Lal K. Motwani, Chairman, National Federation of Indian-American Associations (NFIA), and Mihir B. Patel, President, Society of Indo American Engineers and Architects.
UN resolution on Syria chemical arms

United Nations: The five permanent members of the UN Security Council have agreed on a resolution that will require Syria to give up its chemical weapons, but there will be no automatic penalties if the Syrians fail to comply, officials said Thursday. The agreement is a compromise among the US, its allies and Russia about how to enforce the resolution, which would eliminate Syrias chemical arms program. The deal, when approved by 15 members of the UNSC, would be the most significant international diplomatic initiative of the Syrian civil war and a remarkable turn for President Obama, who was pushing for a military strike on Syria just a few weeks ago.
G4 nations seek urgent UNSC reforms

United Nations: India and other G4 countries, Brazil, Germany and Japan, all aspiring for permanent membership of the UN Security Council, have called for intensifying efforts for urgent UN Security Council reforms "to better reflect geopolitical realities of the 21st century". In a joint statement issued after a meeting of the foreign ministers of the G4 nations on the margins of the UN General Assembly, they "underscored that, almost 70 years after the creation of the UN, reform of the Security Council is long overdue". Besides Indian External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid, the meeting was attended by Brazil's Luiz Alberto Figueiredo Machado, Germany's Guido Westerwelle and Japan's Fumio Kishida. They agreed that difficulties of the Security Council in dealing with international challenges, including current ones, have further highlighted the need for UNSC reform. The G4 countries reiterated their commitments as aspiring new permanent members of the UNSC, as well as their support for each other's candidatures.
Letter to the Editor

As a Member of Congress who represents a large population of Americans of Indian descent, I am deeply troubled by the outrageous remarks aimed at the winner of the 2013 Miss America Pageant and a fellow New Yorker, Nina Davuluri. Ms. Davuluri embodies the American dreamthe daughter of immigrants who graduated from a prestigious university and plans to pursue a medical degree. She is American in the truest sense, and the fact that this would be questioned is despicable. I join with the voices of the many Americans who have cried out against these hateful remarks. And I will continue to work in Congress to fight against hatred. -Congressman Steve Israel
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TRISTATE COMMUNITY
Hate graffiti on mayor candidate Sudhanshu Prasad's poll signs

New York: In an apparent act of racism, election sign boards of an Indian-American mayoral candidate and his running mates in New Jersey have been defaced with a swastika and words "Never In Edison." Sudhanshu Prasad, running for office as Edison Mayor, was alerted to the acts of vandalism following which a report was filed with the police, who said other such acts took place throughout Edison in town parks and public areas. The sign boards included the pictures of Prasad's running mates - Sheila Angalet, Mohin Patel, Steven Nagel and Cynthia Doherty - were defaced with a swastika, a bindi, and the words "Never In Edison" hand-written across one sign and "dotheads" on another sign two days ago. "We strongly denounce these deplorable acts. This is a cowardly act of bigotry which have no place in the Township of Edison, nor are they representative of the beliefs and hearts of the good citizens of Edison," Prasad, a medical practitioner, said. "If the perpetrators of these hate crimes harbor any illusions that they will stop our team or divide the mosaic of communities that make Edison one of the most wonderfully diverse places in New Jersey, we collectively say this to you - you will not succeed," he said. Prasad said Edison is much stronger than the intolerance you foster, and Edison will never fracture into the divisions you intend. Through the strength of our community, and the conviction that our shared goals for Edison are far greater than our differences, we will overcome your ignorance. "We call on all people - residents, community leaders, and elected officials - in Edison, Middlesex County, and the great State of New Jersey to join with us in denouncing these heinous acts in the common cause of justice and in the spirit of the brotherhood of humanity. "We must all work together with determination and purpose to eradicate acts of hate, bigotry, and ignorance in our communities," he added.
Ranbir Kapoor: The tag Superstar is overrated nowadays
World peace & communal harmony meet at Mahatma Gandhi Center NJ

Religion brings us together it does not create differences - Acharya Lokesh
New Jersey: In the world famous Mahatma Gandhi Center in New Jersey, USA leaders of the Hindu, Muslim, Jain and Sikh faith participated in World Peace and Communal Harmony conference to bring a message of peace and love to the people at internationally. Religious leaders of different religions came on one platform to emphasize that Religion teaches us to come together; it does not create differences. Religious Gurus further said that for development in the country peace and harmony should be maintained. Founder President of Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni, Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi, President of the All India Imams Association, Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji, President of Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Rishikesh Shri Deviki Nandan Thakurji and Sadhwi Bhagwati addressed the to spread the message of World Peace and Communal harmony. Founder President of Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti and famous Jainacharya Dr. Lokesh Muni addressing the large event said Religion brings us together it does not create differences. Unity in diversity is the basic principle of India culture. Acharya ji said, Come, lets sit together as one family and talk, even if its few steps, lets walk. Vikas (development) and Mitas (sweetness) never comes from fighting it only comes from peace and love. He said that on the path of religion there is no place for violence, hatred, disgust and fear. Peace is necessary for development. The United States and India need to cooperate in order to stop
(L-R) Reliance Entertainment COO Mahesh Ramanathan, Rishi Kapoor, Neetu Kapoor, Ranbir Kapoor, Pallavi Sharda, Consul General Dnyaneshwar Mulay, producer Himanshu Mehra, and Reliance Entertainment CEO Sanjeev Lamba at the Consulate General of India in New York City on September 23, 2013.
By Jinal Shah/SATimes New York: Bollywood without Kapoors would be Superman without his red underwear, quips Ranbir Kapoor, Indias current heartthrob and youngest actor from the Kapoor clan during a press conference held at the Indian Consulate in New York on Monday. Kapoor juniors witty comment was to the question SATimes asked Bollywood without Kapoors would be?. The conference, also attended by new comer Indian Australian Pallavi Shardha, Rishi, Neetu Kapoor parents and co-stars of Ranbir Kapoor in the their upcoming film Besharam, marked 100 years of Bollywood. Team Besharam was in the city to promote their upcoming film - scheduled to release on October 2- at the Diwali at Times square event where over 25,000 Indian Americans gathered to get a glimpse of the superstar. Sanjeev Lamba, CEO of Besharams distributor Reliance Entertainment, providing insight into the current state of Bollywood in relation to Hollywood and the international movie marketplace noted that among the major marketing strengths of Besharam was the fact that three members of the Kapoor family were the main stars and ap-
pearing together on-screen for the first time. This according to Lamba was the reason for Besharam to have one of the largest global releases ever for a Hindi film which included an unprecedented 200 theaters across North America. Directed by Abhinav Kashyap of Dabang fame, the film is about Babli (Ranbir Kapoor) is a street smart car mechanic living in a Delhi orphanage. "Besharam is an attitude. It's where you listen to your heart and follow it. The tagline of this film means Babli isn't afraid of getting insulted and he's not looking for respect," said Ranbir. In real life I am actually pretty shy but I guess in front of the camera I focus. It is very important for an actor to be Besharam in front of the camera. Unless you express yourself fully you cant connect with the audience, said Ranbir who attended the School of Visual Arts in New York for three years and the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute here for another year. The promotional event also celebrated 100 years of Bollywood where consul general Ambassador Dyaneshwar Mulay praised the first family of Bollywood for contributing 84 years to the largest film industry in terms of producing films every year.
Acharya Lokesh Muniji giving his speech. Other religious leaders also share the dais.
terrorism and violence. He also commented that the problem should be eliminated at the root level permanently rather than solve it temporarily. Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji said "Often, wrongs were committed and mistakes happened. But no wrong was ever made right through more violence and it does not matter now who started the fight let us all come together to end it. To eradicate the many challenges we face as human beings-such as unemployment, poverty and illness we have to stop fighting with one another and work as one family in the spirit of Vashudaiva Kutumkum. This gathering of peace is just the first important step towards learning to walk together and hold each others hands as we preserver in this long and continuous journey together Its time we bring sweetness to our relationships and to living together in harmony and
love." Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi in the conference said that he has seen so many different forms of violence growing that he believes everyone needs to unify to find more effective methods against violence and terrorism. He said peace, non-violence and harmony are the only way to establish a better world. Shri Devkinandan Thakurji on the occasion said that world political, spiritual leaders and social organizations should work closely together on this mission of World Peace and Communal Harmony to create a better society. He called upon the political and the religious leaders and the NGOs to come forward to check the violence, terrorism and strengthen the unity of mind. On the occasion many prestigious people, leaders, social workers, philosophers and industrialists were present.
TRISTATE COMMUNITY
By Jinal Shah
New York: Incense smoke and sound of mantra chanting waft through the air as you enter the dimly lit space at Clamp Art Gallery in New York where nine, six feet tall painting-like photos of Hindu gods and goddesses are displayed behind large brass frames. Through this unique exhibition titled Darshan, Mumbai born, Brooklyn based photographer Manjari Sharma has created photographs that provoke a Darshanlike moment, even in a nonreligious context. Growing up in India, Manjari recalls, we visited many towns and my mother made sure we visited famous temples there. These temples became an integral part of my life. After moving to the United States at age 22, I rarely visited any temples and while studying fine arts in Ohio, the local art museum replaced temples as the place to experience the divine, added Manjari, who attended Columbus College of Arts and Design. She saw spiritual paintings and sculptures of deities everywhere but never a photograph. Her mission with Darshan was to prove that a carefully crafted photograph can evoke a similar spiritual response as paintings and sculptures. She has recreated elaborate tableaux of nine Hindu deities Maa Laxmi, Saraswati, Durga and
Making gods out of ordinary people $625,000 Genius Grant for Jazz pianist Vijay Iyer
New York: Jazz pianist, composer and bandleader Vijay Iyer, 41, was among the 13 men and 11 women named MacArthur Fellows Sept. 25. The award includes a stipend of $625,000 over five years, increased from the $500,000 grant given to previous recipients. New York based Iyer, the Foundation said, has forged a new conception of jazz and American creative music through an eclectic oeuvre that includes compositions for his own and other ensembles, collaborations across multiple genres and disciplines, and scholarly research on the act of listening. An ardent investigator of musical communities, practices, histories, and theories, he mines core rhythmic, melodic, and structural elements from a wide range of sources to construct richly varied, improvisation-driven solo and ensemble music. Commenting on the award to the Worchester Telegram & Gazette Sept. 25, Iyer said, For me, its an amazing sense of validation to know youre being heard outside of the music community. What I admire about this award is that it goes to a variety of different people. It places us and all that we're doing in dialogue with each other. Im really inspired by the composer-pianists of the last century, particularly (Duke) Ellington and
Two of Manjari Sharmas nine photographs on show, in which models pose as Hindu deities.
Kali, and the trinity of BrahmaVishnu-Shiva, Hanuman, and Ganesha. Manjari says, It became important for me to represent goddesses in my work - especially after all the atrocities on women - to showcase the qualities of strength, wellness and prosperity a woman brings with her. The process of selecting her models was as unique as the project itself. The man who posed as Ganesha is our family pandit who got me married. He has a round belly perfect for posing as Ganesha. For Maa Laxmi, we found a flight attendant who aspired to be model. Soon after her shoot with her, she did well in Miss India contest, and her career took off as if Maa Laxmi blessed her. In the case of Shiva, it looked for some-
one who had the body of a dancer, who could also look muscular but still strike grace with their pose. The project also involved recruiting dozens of artisans and craftspeople to create complex sets, costumes and prosthetics around a human posing as a deity. And this was possible only in India. I self-funded the first photo in 2011 of Maa Laxmi and collected $26000 for the rest of the pictures. The photographs bridge the space between art and spirituality, the present and the imagined. Says Manjari, You are looking at a human being staring back at you. However, she did everything to create the religious context, the spiritual aura. Darshan is on view at Clamp Art Gallery in Chelsea through October 12.
Vijay Iyer
(Thelonious) Monk and people in that lineage who aren't just playing, but they're making things," Iyer told the Chicago Tribune. They deal with the entire range of the instrument and the range of the piano is (basically) the range of human hearing. So you kind of have a lot of options, and you have access to a really wide range of sensations. The Indian American pianist has performed his music at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, the Walker Art Center, the Brooklyn Academy of Music, Chicago Symphony Hall, the University of California at Los Angeless Royce Hall, Kln Philharmonie and Teatro Manzoni di Milano. In January 2014, he will join the Harvard University music department as Franklin D. and Florence Rosenblatt Professor of the Arts.
IACFNJ to host 5 day Garba fest in South Brunswick

New Jersey: Indo-American Cultural Foundation of Central Jersey - IACFNJ will be hosting Navratri Garba in South Brunswick on October 5, 11, 12, 18 and 19, 2013, from 8 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. The first three days of Garba will be at Cross Roads South Middle School in Monmouth Junction, New Jersey on October 5, 11 and 12 while on October 18 and 19, 2013, Garba will be at South Brunswick High School in Monmouth Junction, New Jersey. More than 2000 people are expected to attend each day. For last three years, IACFNJ Garba has been the biggest and highly organized indoor Navratri event in New Jersey. Once again, famous group of Mahesh Mehta and his talented singers from Bollywood and local singers and artists of Entertainment Unlimited will rock the stage with famous old and new live singing of garbas, dandiya tunes, famous sanedo and bhangaras for non-stop live entertainment for more than six hours on all five days. The South Brunswicks cultural diversity will be witnessed on the dance floor where the attendees will not be only Gujaratis but from all over India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Shri Lanka and other neighboring countries and high school kids of various ethnic and cultural back grounds which is rarely seen at any other Garba celebration in the country. The local business entrepreneurs, community leaders, local and state public officials will attend the celebration to support IACFNJ community efforts to keep Indian culture and heritage alive in this country. For more info visit www.IACFNJ.org
Krupal Shukla to run for Council Seat in Edison

New Jersey: The Republican Party in Edison has unanimously nominated Krupal Shukla to run in the November election for one of three seats open on the Edison Municipal Council, Ice Production Network of New Jersey reported recently. We are going to reform Edison, Shukla said. Our opponents might be fighting now, but for over 10 years they worked in concert to raise taxes and make Edison less affordable for the middle-class. Our ticket presents a clear alternative to the failed politicians of the past." Shukla, 28, a businessman, pledges to cut wasteful spending, reinvest in infrastructure and attract small businesses to Edison. We need to streamline local government to make it cost-effective and provide property tax relief to our residents, the Indian American candidate said. Our families and small business owners make tough decisions to live within their means every day. Our local government should be forced to operate under those same principles.
Krupal Shukla
Baba Ramdev to headline two events in NY, NJ

New York: Swami Ramdev will be in the US and attend two major events in New Jersey and New York areas. He will be the keynote speaker at the Dharma & Yoga Fest on September 29th at Birchwood Manor in Parsippany, NJ. The event is organized by Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) USA to commemorate 150th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. HSS is leading the initiative to organize a day long spiritual fest in 25 cities in USA. The highlights of the New Jersey Program include: 15 Indian Classical Music and Dance groups coming and performing in one location; Vivekananda themed Kids Carnival with 20+ games, competition and prizes for kids; an exhibition prepared by second generation Americans on the life of Swami Vivekananda; Saamuhik Ganesh pooja for whole family. Same day he will also attend Hindu Unity Day organized by Indian American Intellectuals Forum at The Sterling, Bethpage, NY. The day commemorates coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Hindu warrior king who after demolishing Islamic dominion established Hindu kingdom in India in 1674. Dr Subramanian Swamy ,senior BJP leader will also be keynote speaker at this event.
NATIONAL COMMUNITY
Obama names Indira Talwani as a Boston judge

Washington, DC: US President Barack Obama has nominated yet another leading Indian American lawyer, Indira Talwani, as a judge in the US District Court in Boston, Massachusetts. Talwani is Obama's third South Asian judicial nominee after Vince Chhabria and Manish Shah, both awaiting Senate confirmation. Once confirmed, she would be the first South Asian judge in the First Circuit. Currently, Indira Talwani is a partner at Segal Roitman LLP in Boston, where she focuses her practice on civil litigation at the state and federal trial court and appellate levels. "These individuals have demonstrated the talent, expertise, and fairmindedness Americans expect and deserve from their judicial system," said Obama in nominating her along with another judge for the District of Massachusetts. "I am grateful for their willingness to serve and confident that they will apply the law with the utmost impartiality and integrity," he said. "Both nominees... are talented and highly respected practitioners with diverse professional backgrounds, strong ties to the community, and impressive legal careers," said Elizabeth Warren, Democratic
Modi's long shadow creates a rift in Chicago

Chicago: The shadow of Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi, and his alleged complicity in the 2002 communal riots in his state, has created a controversy here with the Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions (CPWR) withdrawing its support to the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Swami Vivekananda. The CPWR was formed in 1893 and organized the conference which Vivekananda addressed in Chicago that year. Vivekananda's birth anniversary celebrations are to be held here on Sep 27-28, under the banner of "World Without Borders" with the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and several temples among its sponsors. Withdrawing its support to the event, Dr Mary Nelson, vice chair of the board of CPWR said in a statement: "The Council is a 120 -year-old peace building organization whose mission, like Swami Vivekananda's is to promote peace and inter-religious harmony. We honor Swami Vivekananda and that legacy he left creating inter-faith cooperation to build a just, peaceful and sustainable world. Our organization was not informed that an event we were asked to co-sponsor was also co-sponsored by organizations promoting controversial political positions." "While we do honor and promote the ideals of Swami Vivekananda, we respectfully withdraw our name from any co-hosting or co-sponsorship of the 'World without borders' and any connection to this event or other cosponsors." 'Coalition against genocide', a group which has accused Narendra Modi and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of complicity in the 2002 communal riots had reportedly strongly campaigned with the CPWR to withdraw its sponsorship to the event. The coalition says it is dedicated to justice and accountability for the 2002 riots in Gujarat and to "combating extremist ideologies that were its genesis." Two members of the CPWR's board of trustees, Anju Bharagava and Dr Anantanand Rambachan, have said that they were not consulted on the CPWR's decision. "Once we found out, we requested an explanation for the Parliament's decision. We have also formally requested the Parliament to reverse its decision," they said. Bharagava is a member of President Barack Obama's Inaugural Council on Faith Based and Neighborhood Partnerships and Rambachan is chair and professor of religion, philosophy and Asian studies at Saint Olaf College, Minnesota. Meanwhile, Suhag Shukla, executive director of the Hindu American Foundation has said that Nelson's statement that the CPWR withdrew its sponsorship because the organizers "promoted controversial positions will be seen as ironic at best and institutional hypocrisy at worst." In a letter to Dr Nelson, Shukla said, "I am left with the impression that an unknown segment of CPWR took what can only be seen as a capricious, unilateral decision without respect for democratic process, and of greater concern, without any regard for the understanding of the Hindu community - that Dr Rambachan and Ms Bhargava would have provided the latter omission violating every core principle of interfaith dialogue, engagement and respect." Dr Shamkant Sheth, an official of the VHP of America, has in a letter to Nelson sought to know "which of our co-sponsoring organizations are promoting controversial positions and what these positions are. As a US based not for profit, religious and cultural organization that is not interested in politics, we ourselves are curious to know the specific reasons for your actions." In a statement to the media, Nelson said that the CPWR had no further comments on the issue.
Indira Talwani
Senator from Massachusetts commenting on the appointments. Prior to joining Segal Roitman LLP in 1999, Talwani was a partner at the San Francisco law firm now known as Altshuler Berzon LLP from 1996 to 1999 and an associate at that firm from 1989 to 1995, according to the White House announcement. She began her legal career as a law clerk for Judge Stanley A. Weigel of the US District Court for the Northern District of California from 1988 to 1989. Talwani received her J.D. in 1988 from Boalt Hall School of Law at the University of California, Berkeley, and her B.A. cum laude in 1982 from Harvard College.
Congresswoman Gabbard captivates audience at HAFs annual Northern CA gala

Milpitas, CA: Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI) captivated a standing-room only audience of 500 people at the Hindu American Foundation (HAF)s Annual Northern California Awareness and Gala Dinner Saturday at the India Community Center in Milpitas. Since coming to office in 2012, Congresswoman Gabbard has been a strong proponent of the Foundations work, particularly in the areas of human rights and religious freedom. The Hindu American Foundations work is based on the principles of human dignity, mutual respect, and pluralism which serve to break down the barriers that exist within so many communities across the country and around the world, said Congresswoman Gabbard. I appreciate HAF's efforts to bring diverse voices and interests together to accomplish the shared goal of supporting and defending human rights and religious freedom around the world. In Saturday's keynote address, Congresswoman Gabbard described her journey as a public servant and military veteran, and the inspiration and solace she drew from the Bhagavada Gita and her Hindu faith. She further spoke about the Syria crisis and her
Jhumpa Lahiri shortlisted for US National Book Award

Washington, DC: Days after being short listed for the Man Booker prize for her new novel, "The Lowland", Pulitzer Prize winning Indian American author Jhumpa Lahiri has been shortlisted for the 2013 US The Lowland has also been National Book shortlisted for Award in fiction. Lahiri's tale of Man Booker prize two brothers set in Kolkata of the 1960s has been listed along with nine other works, including Tom Drury's "Pacific", Elizabeth Graver's "The End of the Point" and Rachel Kushner's "The Flamethrowers." The National Book Foundation said finalists in the Young People's Literature, Poetry, Nonfiction and Fiction categories would be announced on Oct 16 and the winners will be named at a ceremony in New York on Nov 20.
Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard at the event
leading role as an outspoken critic of military strikes against the Assad regime. Congresswoman Gabbards inspiring story captures the imagination of all Hindu Americans, whether young or old, said Anju Sharma, an HAF volunteer and coordinator for the event. She instills a sense of pride in the community and serves as a role model for young Hindus across the nation. Attended by several local and state elected officials, community leaders, and high-profile Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, the event marked the Foundations largest and most
successful Gala Dinner to date. In addition to Congresswoman Gabbard, the event featured guest speakers Congressman Mike Honda (CA-17), Congressman Eric Swalwell (CA15), and Congressional Candidate Ro Khanna. California State Senate Majority Leader Ellen M. Corbett was also honored with the Foundations Friend of the Community award for her authorship and successful passage of Senate Concurrent Resolution 32, designating October 2013 as California Hindu American Awareness & Appreciation Month.
NATIONAL COMMUNITY
Obama nominates one more Indian American as district court judge

Washington, DC: President Barack Obama has nominated yet another Indian American, Manish S Shah, to the key post of US District Court judge for the Northern District of his home state of Illinois. Announcing Shah's nomination along with seven other judiciary posts, Obama said in a White House statement: "These men and women have had distinguished legal careers and I am honored to ask them to continue their work as judges on the federal bench." "They will serve the American people with integrity and an unwavering commitment to justice," he added. An Assistant US Attorney in the Northern District of Illinois since 2001, New York-born Shah, 40, currently serves as Chief of the Criminal Division, having previously served as Chief of Criminal Appeals from 2011 to 2012. Shah was also Deputy Chief of the Financial Crimes and Special Prosecutions Section from 2008 to 2011 and Deputy Chief of the General Crimes Section from 2007 to 2008. Both the senators from Illinois, Democrat Dick Durbin and Republican Mark Kirk, welcomed Shah's nomination reflecting the bipartisan support he enjoys in the Congress. "Manish Shah has served with distinction as an Assistant US Attorney, and he will bring a wealth of knowledge and legal acumen to the federal bench in Northern Illinois," said Durbin. "Manish Shah's stellar record in working with former US Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald makes him an outstanding candidate to be the next federal district court judge for Northern Illinois," Kirk said.
US hopes to 'celebrate' progress on n-deal, defence contracts

Washington, DC: The White House Wednesday said it hoped to 'celebrate' progress on the landmark India-US deal and expanding defence ties between the two countries during Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's third summit with President Barack Obama. "We have seen encouraging signs" on the likelihood of signing a pre-early works agreement between Westinghouse and Nuclear Power Cooperation of India Ltd (NPCIL)," a senior administration official told Indian media in a conference call. "The endeavor of the two countries has been to pave the way for the commercial contracts to go forward. We certainly look forward to marking that progress and celebrating it," he said. Manmohan Singh who arrives in Washington Thursday on a twoday working visit would meet the Obama at the White House Friday where the two leaders are expected to discuss a wide range of bilateral, regional and global issues. Besides, the nuclear deal, "some of the specific progress, we look forward to celebrating will be the defence trade relationship, expanding defence ties between India and the United States," the official said. The two sides were "also making progress on expanding clean energy co-operation and the economic partnership," he said. However, the concerns of "US government and its businesses about some of the Indian economic policies and the need for some additional economic reform to attract greater international investment," will "certainly be a centrepiece" of the discussion, the official said. The issues raised are being discussed by the two governments and the two countries "are now working to expand the mechanism to address these issues," he said. Noting that in "a complex relationship, and certainly in a strategic partnership there are always areas where there is room for more progress," the official said the India-US relationship is in "an active engagement stage" and US would like to keep it that way.
Vice chairman Akshaya Patra to speak at Bay Area benefit event
Vijay Amritraj will be the special guest
Latha wins the democratic primaries in Ward 8, Nashua

USINPAC congratulates Latha Mangipudi
Washington DC. US India PoUSINPAC Chairman Sanjay litical Action Committee (USINPuri said, USINPAC is proud PAC) has congratulated Latha of Latha. She is a role model for Mangipudi on winning the DemIndian American community, ocratic primary special elections especially in the State of New for New Hampshire State House Hampshire where the number of Representatives (Nashua, of Indian Americans is much Ward 8, New Hampshire) held less as compared to states like on September 17, 2013. Initial New York and California. USresults of this election led to a reINPAC has supported her local count which resulted in Lathas efforts in past and will continue to Latha Mangipudi victory over her opponent Carl do so. We need more people like Andrade. Latha is a first generation immigrant Latha who are dedicated, passionate and truly from India, who came to USA with a Masters understand the significance of political indegree in Speech Language Pathology and Au- volvement. diology. Latha used her experiences effectiveLatha Mangipudi said, I thank the Indian ly in serving the community. She also served as American community for their enthusiastic rea chair of USINPAC New Hampshire chapter sponse to my campaign. and played a key role in motivating and inI am especially thankful to USINPAC for bevolving the New Hampshire Indian American ing a constant supporter of my work in New community to participate in the process of po- Hampshire. It is my sincere desire to successlitical advocacy. Latha organized several US- fully serve as a representative in the State AsINPAC events including Presidential and Con- sembly of New Hampshire as a proud Indian gressional meetings at her residence. American and fulfill my campaign promises.
Stoneham, MA: On Sunday, Coimbatore. Later he attendOctober 20th the Akshaya ed the Indian Institute of SciPatra Foundations San Franence, Bangalore where he cisco Bay Area Chapter will earned his Masters Degree hold its 2013 Benefit Event in Electrical Communication at the India Community CenEngineering. Chanchalapathi ter in Milpitas at 5:30PM. Dasa helped found Akshaya Vice Chairman and Trustee Patra as a pilot program servChachalapathi Dasa of Akshaya Patras main ing school meals to just 1,500 branch in India, Chanchalapathi Dasa will children in 5 schools in Bangalore. Together, serve as the keynote speaker for the event and the founders combined their own knowledge of share the story of his own journey with Ak- engineering to transform Akshaya Patra into shaya Patra. The event will also feature special one of the worlds largest NGO-run school guest Vijay Amritraj, Wimbledon Cup com- meal programs that today serves 1.3 million petitor and host of Dimensions with Vijay Am- children daily in over 9,500 schools from 19 ritraj on CNN IBN. The event will raise funds kitchens in nine states across India. Today, and awareness for Akshaya Patras unique and Chanchalapathi Dasa manages the executive innovative program for eradicating hunger and operations of the Foundation. promoting education in India. The event will be attended by community Chanchalapathi Dasa, known to many as CP leaders, business executives and long-time supJi, was among the first founders of the Ak- porters of Akshaya Patra. The Benefit Event is shaya Patra Foundation. He completed his un- chaired by B.V. Jagadeesh, Vish Mishra, and dergraduate in PSG College of Technology, Ram Reddy.
Navigate India without internet connection with this offline app

Bratislava, Slovakia: Sygic, the leader in offline mobile mapping services, announced that it will be making its app for India available to all Android owners free of charge. Sygic India: GPS Navigation, previously offered at $27.99 (1399INR), is now free on Google Play, removing a barrier to entry for millions of customers. The sophisticated app is powered by map data from MapmyIndia, the provider of the most comprehensive, up-to-date and accurate road maps available for all of India. Due to its heavy traffic conditions, and unreliable data connections in many rural areas, quality offline maps are particularly important for millions of drivers in India, as well as tourists visiting the country. Now Indias 60 million Android users, and any other visitor, can access helpful voice-guided GPS navigation and a robust set of tools to help them navigate to their desired destination. Maps in the Sygic app are stored on the users phone instead of streamed from the Internet like most naviga-
Features of Sygic India: GPS Navigation include:

tion apps, which means that Sygic users dont have to worry about running up against their cellular data caps by using GPS navigation or getting lost in an area with poor cell reception. By making our advanced navigation app available to millions of users for free, Sygic is helping countries like India become a safer, more enjoyable place to travel, said Sygic CEO Michal tencl. Turn-by-turn voice-guided GPS navigation 3D cities and landscapes Voice guidance in more than 40 languages Multi-stop routes and Drag & Drop route editing Speed limit display and audio warning Road incident sharing with other drivers Sharp curve warnings for added safety SOS/Help to find assistance nearby Spoken street names (text-tospeech) in American and British English Interactive map - tap on any street, POI, or photo to choose action Pedestrian navigation and stopwatch for outdoor activities
US AFFAIRS
Congress turns attention to debt limit battle

the Senate and House remained over the next few days. Both the debt ceiling and government funding measures were complicated by Republican attempts to use the must-do bills to gut President Barack Obama's signature healthcare law, known as "Obamacare." A disheveled Republican Senator Ted Cruz finished a 21-hour, 19-minute marathon of standing and speaking on the Senate floor, arguing for defunding Obamacare as part of the government-funding bill. The first-term Texas senator with presidential aspirations compared the healthcare law to the villain in the "Friday the 13th" horror films. "Obamacare is the biggest job-killer in this country and when Jason put on his hockey mask and swung that machete, boy there was carnage like nothing else," Cruz said. The White House and Democrats in Congress are defending Obamacare, saying it will provide millions of Americans with health insurance that they otherwise could not afford, while potentially pushing down healthcare costs. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, a Nevada Democrat, called Cruz's effort "a big waste of time," saying it delayed passage of the legislation to keep the government running. Meanwhile, Representative Steny Hoyer, the second-ranking House Democrat, told reporters that the chamber's Republican leaders have not yet reached out to Democrats to discuss keeping the government running and raising the debt limit. House Democratic votes could end up being crucial to passing either bill if House Speaker John Boehner loses too many of his own Republicans. Hoyer fretted about the possibility of a government shutdown, saying, "This is the highest risk I have seen because I see the least willingness to do what is absolutely essential in democracy and that is to work together."
Clinton 'pragmatic and realistic' about possible 2016 run

advocate for the values and the policies I think are right for the country," she said. "I will just continue to weigh what the factors are that would influence me making a decision one way or the other," said Clinton, who started out as a leading contender for Democratic nomination in 2008 too, but narrowly lost out to then Senator Barack Obama. But "I'm not in any hurry. I think it's a serious decision, not to be made lightly, but it's also not one that has to be made soon," she said. "This election is more than three years away, and I just don't think it's good for the country." Some of Clinton's closest confidants insist she will run, even if she hasn't realized it yet, according to the magazine. Of Clinton's failed 2008 bid, her aide Melanne Verveer told the magazine, "She doesn't repeat her mistakes." Clinton also told the magazine that after many years, she and her husband Bill Clinton were enjoying their "ordinary" life together. Former President Bill Clinton said in a separate interview that aired Sunday on CNN's Fareed Zakaria GPS that any decision by his wife is "a long way ahead. I think she would be the first to tell you that there is no such thing as a done deal, ever, by anybody. But I don't know what she's going to do." The Clintons are holding their annual Clinton Global Initiative meetings in New York this week.
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton
Republican Senator Ted Cruz gave a 21-hour speech opposing Obama's healthcare law.
Washington: The U.S. Congress, already struggling to avert a government shutdown next week, turned its attention Wednesday to the other fiscal bullet it had to dodge: a federal debt default. Republican leaders in the House of Representatives notified members that a vote on raising the debt limit could come as early as Friday. Treasury Secretary Jack Lew pleaded for quick action in the deeply divided Congress on raising the $16.7 trillion statutory limit on government borrowing, as he projected an October 17 drop-dead date when only $30 billion would be left in his agency's checking account. Amid those dire warnings, lawmakers struggled with another potential crisis: federal agency shutdowns that could begin with the new fiscal year on October 1 unless Congress comes up with emergency funds. The money would be used to continue paying U.S. troops, operate border patrols, provide free school lunches for poor children and thousands of other activities. The Senate voted unanimously to begin advancing legislation to avert government agency shutdowns. But tough fights in both
Washington: Not long ago, Hillary Clinton had "absolutely no plans to run" for the White House in 2016. Now she is "wrestling" with the idea, but is in no hurry to decide as it's a decision "not to be made lightly." A possible White House run by the former Secretary of State and First Lady, whom polls put as the leading contender for Democratic nomination, has become a topic of renewed speculation with the publication of an interview by New York magazine. In her first interview since leaving the State Department, asked by the magazine whether she wrestles with the idea of a possible run, Clinton replied "I do, but I'm both pragmatic and realistic." "I think I have a pretty good idea of the political and governmental challenges that are facing our leaders, and I'll do whatever I can from whatever position I find myself in to
Gunman IDed in shooting 2 near Roosevelt Field mall

Garden City, NY: A man described as a disgruntled business associate walked into an office of a company that makes light fixtures and shot two people here, killing one, before fleeing, prompting a lockdown of the nearby Roosevelt Field mall Wednesday, authorities said. Police were looking for Sang Ho Kim, 64, in connection with the shooting. Police said there was nothing to suggest the suspect was on a random shooting rampage. The attack appeared to be targeted to a specific person in the office "over a bad business deal," Nassau County Police Chief Steven Skrynecki said. Roosevelt Field Mall was locked down for several hours as a precaution. Garden City Schools also did not allow any unauthorized people inside the buildings as a precaution.
Sang Ho Kim, of Queens, is described as a disgruntled business associate
US signs UN arms trade treaty

United Nations: US Secretary of State John Kerry signed the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty on the sidelines of the annual UN General Assembly in New York Wednesday. At a ceremony Wednesday morning, Kerry signed the treaty which regulates the multi-billion dollar international trade in conventional weapons. The UN General Assembly adopted the arms trade treaty in April in a vote of 154 to 3 with 23 abstentions. The vote took place after the UN conference on the treaty failed to adopt the pact due to a lack of consensus among 193 UN member states. After its adoption by the general assembly, the treaty needs to be signed and ratified by at least 50 countries to come into force.
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INDIA
Advani greets Modi, finally!

Bhopal: BJP veteran L.K. Advani shared the dais with Narendra Modi at a rally here in a show of party unity ahead of crucial assembly polls as the Gujarat chief minister lambasted Congress saying it had lost the capacity to fight BJP and the coming electoral battles will be fought by the "CBI and not Congress". Addressing a massive "Karyakarta Mahakumbh" (party workers' mega conclave) here, Modi, the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) prime ministerial candidate, called upon party workers to rid the country of the Congress. Modi claimed there was a wave in favor of the BJP across the country and said that "a Congress-free India" will fulfill "Mahatma Gandhi's desire of disbanding the Congress". Advani and Modi shared a public platform for the first time since the latter was declared the party's prime ministerial candidate earlier this month but the exchange of greetings lacked warmth. Chouhan bowed to touch Advani's feet and the BJP leader seemed to acknowledge the gesture. Modi, too, fol-
Opposition slams ordinance on convicted lawmakers

New Delhi: A day after the union cabinet approved an ordinance to save convicted lawmakers from being disqualified, a political storm blew over the issue with the opposition slamming the government move and the Congress defending it. The Left parties and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) opposed the ordinance that negates a Supreme Court order disqualifying members of parliament and legislatures convicted in a criminal case. A BJP team was expected to meet the president. Terming the step "uncalled for", BJP leader Yashwant Sinha said: "The government stands condemned in the eyes of the people of the country for taking this unconstitutional and immoral route." "If the government had any reservations on that order, it should go back to the Supreme Court and ask it to review it," he said. Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj of the BJP tweeted: "Union cabinet has approved an ordinance on convicted MPs. We are
AVOIDING EYE-CONTACT: Narendra Modi seeks blessings from LK Advani
lowed suit but Advani merely folded his hands without looking at him. In his speech, Advani made a mention of Modi as the party's prime ministerial candidate and noted party's rise could be attributed to hard work of party workers. He praised work done by Modi, Chouhan and Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh. Party chief Rajnath Singh, Sushma Swaraj, Arun Jaitley, Murli Manohar Joshi and Uma Bharti attended. Modi referred to the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance government as "sultanate" (lands ruled by a sultan) and "Delhi
ke shahanshah (rulers of Delhi)" in his nearly 35minute speech. The workers conclave was organized on the birth anniversary of party ideologue Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay and is being seen as a show of strength by the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government. The BJP is seeking a third successive term in the assembly elections to be held later this year. Attacking the Congress over corruption, he said if "numeral one is put in Bhopal, the number of zeros (for the money involved in graft) will go upto Janpath (the road with residence of Congress president Sonia Gandhi)."
Law and Justice Minister Kapil Sibal said there is no attempt by the government to protect any convicted politician
opposed to this. We request the president not to sign this ordinance." Sushma Swaraj, who urged President Pranab Mukherjee not to sign the ordinance, again tweeted in the night that her party leaders will meet the president over the issue. The government opted for the ordinance route after a bill on the same issue could not be passed in the monsoon session of parliament. Communist Party of India-Marxist leader Sitaram Yechury said that at an all-party meeting convened to discuss the issue, it was decided that if somebody has been convicted in a lower
court, it is possible that he gets reprieve from the higher court.The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) announced it would challenge the ordinance by filing a public interest litigation (PIL) in the Supreme Court. Party president Arvind Kejriwal said: "We will challenge the ordinance in the Supreme Court if it passes." The Congress defended the ordinance. Law and Justice Minister Kapil Sibal told reporters in Chandigarh: "There is no attempt by the government to protect any convicted politician. No one has read the ordinance and understood it correctly."
Jagan meets leaders over no-division strategy

Hyderabad: A day after his release on bail, YSR Congress party chief Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy went into a huddle with party leaders to devise the strategy against the proposed bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh. Jagan, as the MP from Kadapa is popularly known, held a meeting with MP M. Rajamohan Reddy, state legislators and other top leaders of the YSR Congress party chief Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy has been released from jail party to take stock of the latest political situation in the MPs and state legislators are "foolstate in the wake of the Congress ing" Seemandhra people by not party's decision to carve out a sepa- resigning their posts. Both Jagan and Rajamohan and rate Telangana state. Jagan was released from jail after all 17 legislators of the party have nearly 16 months. In May last year, already submitted their resignation he was arrested in a corruption to protest the manner in which the case. The leader discussed the United Progressive Alliance govongoing movement in Seemandhra ernment at the centre decided to (Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra) bifurcate the state without doing against the Congress decision to justice to all regions. At the meetdivide the state, party sources said, ing held at Jagan's Lotus Pond resiadding that the discussion centred dence, he also discussed the strateon how to "expose" Congress and gy to strengthen the party ahead of Telugu Desam Party (TDP), whose next year's elections.
'Singh's allegations difficult for Kashmir politicians'

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said ex-army chief V.K. Singh's allegations have put state politicians in a very difficult position. He asserted that the allegations should be thoroughly probed. After his arrival here from New Delhi, Abdullah told reporters: "The allegations by V.K. Singh have put mainstream political parties in a very difficult position. "I am formally taking up the issue with the government of India. So far as the issue of Ghulam Hassan Mir is concerned, it should be left to me and my alliance partners in the Congress." A report carried by the "Indian Express" had said state Agriculture Minister Ghulam Hassan Mir received Rs.1.19 crore from the army's secret funds in 2010 to topple the Omar Abdullah-headed coalition government. Mir, in a signed statement issued here, said he was offering himself to a fair and time-bound probe into the allegations. He also said the allegations were leveled to dent his integrity and popularity among the people. The chief minister said Singh's allegations were extremely unfortunate. Singh had said the army has funded ministers in Jammu
Ex-army chief V.K. Singh alleged that army was funding ministers in J&K
and Kashmir for decades. "It's extremely unfortunate. Most of us have no financial dealings whatsoever with the army," Abdullah told reporters. "These statements and accusations only cause us great difficulty here." He demanded "a thorough inquiry" into the matter, saying there was an attempt to vilify all mainstream political parties in Kashmir. "I believe these accusations cannot be dismissed off-hand, they require further investigation", Omar said.
Gen Singh said army was funding ministers in the state "since (India's) independence" to maintain peace in the Kashmir Valley. The ruling National Conference (NC) challenged Singh to reveal the names of the ministers he believed received the army's secret funds failing which NC would file a defamation suit against him. Separatists have been using the allegations to up their ante against the mainstream political leaders alleging these people represented the democratic face of India's occupation of Kashmir.
INDIA
11
Attack won't derail dialogue: PM Terror attack in Jammu as PM to meet Sharif

Jammu: Twelve people, including an army officer, were killed when separatist guerrillas mounted an audacious attack on a police station in Jammu region and commandeered a truck which they drove into an army camp where soldiers took them on. The brazen attack took place ahead of ahead of September 29 meeting between Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in New York on the sidelines of the UN general assembly meet. Three militants reached the Hira Nagar police station in Kathua district in an autorickshaw, police sources said. They then attacked the police station, which is barely seven km from the international border. "Militants used grenades and automatic weapons to attack the Hira Nagar police station today (Thursday) morning...," said a source. The rebels lobbed grenades and fired automatic weapons, killing a shopkeeper. Four policemen were also killed. At least four people suffered critical splinter and bullet injuries. Once the attack at the police station got over, the guerrillas shot dead a truck driver and stole his truck that was parked at the police station complex and escaped. They took to the Pathankot-Jammu highway and the gunmen opened fire in Samba town -- only to run into Indian troops. The highway has now been closed. "We intercepted the truck which the militants were driving in Samba area," a military spokesperson said. Army sources said the militants then entered an army unit of Samba brigade, about 35 km from Jammu, and opened fire. Exchange of fire between the militants and the security forces is underway. An army officer and two soldiers were killed while three soldiers were wounded. "There has been an attack on a police station and an army camp...we are collecting information," union Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde told reporters in New Delhi.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh being received by Indian officials at Frankfurt International Airport on his way to New York
Twelve people, including an army officer, were killed
Washington: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh condemned the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir and said "such attacks will not deter us and will not succeed in derailing our efforts to find a resolution to all problems through a process of dialogue". In a statement, Manmohan Singh, who is slated to hold talks with Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in the US, said: "No words are strong enough to condemn the heinous terrorist attack on Hiranagar police station and the army camp at Samba in Jammu and Kashmir this (Thursday) morning." Twelve people, including an army
officer, were killed when guerrillas mounted the audacious attack. "I convey my heartfelt condolences to the families of the brave army and police officers, as well as the innocent civilians martyred in this cowardly attack. This is one more in a series of provocations and barbaric actions by the enemies of peace." "We are firmly resolved to combat and defeat the terrorist menace that continues to receive encouragement and reinforcement from across the border. Such attacks will not deter us and will not succeed in derailing our efforts to find a resolution to all problems through a process of dialogue," he said.
If dialogue stalls, it would be great injustice: Omar

Srinagar: If the dialogue process between India and Pakistan gets stalled following the terror attack in Jammu region, "it would be great injustice", said Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. The terror strike has been carried out by forces inimical to peace between India and Pakistan, he said. Speaking to reporters at a hurriedly convened press conference at his high security residence in summer capital Srinagar, the chief minister said: "I condemn the attack and condole the families of those civilians and security personnel who have lost their lives in the attack". He said the attack was carried out with the objective to derail the forthcoming meeting between Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif in New York."If the dialogue process gets stalled by this attack, it would be great injustice with those martyred in today's incident," he said.
12
INDIA
India riots: social media misuse dominates meet

New Delhi: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh stressed on the responsibility of states to deal promptly and strictly with sectarian violence and the need to check social media's misuse to foment trouble. Addressing the National Integration Council (NIC) meeting here in the aftermath of communal violence in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, that claimed 50 lives, the prime minister said one should not try and politicize communal riots but act against those inciting communal violence, no matter how powerful they are. "The government should use full force to act against those responsible for riots however powerful they may be and to whichever party they may belong," he said. The NIC meeting saw several chief ministers raise concerns over misuse of social media to spread hatred and rumors. The meeting was marked by a Akhilesh Yadav over the Muzaffarnagar violence, also did not attend. Her speech was read out by a state minister. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Naveen Patnaik of Odisha were also not present. Referring to the fake video that was allegedly used to fan the Muzaffarnagar riots, the prime minister said: "We must find a way to stop misuse of social media." "We cannot let anti-national forces misuse social media. Social media is about expressing opinions freely and we need to maintain that sense of freedom." He said that last year the social media was used to cause panic by threatening violence against people of the northeast. The prime minister appealed to the political parties saying that one must not politicize the issue of riots. "It is important to ensure that the local administration not only acts swiftly to prevent incidents from taking bigger shape but ensures punishment to the guilty at the earliest," he said. He added that anti-national forces were using minor incidents for communal disharmony. "We are determined to control these forces. States need to take prompt action to control small incidents that could flare up." The prime minister also raised the issue of rising crimes against women and said that changing the laws was not sufficient. Social change is the need of the hour. "A nation can progress only when women can go to public places without fear. It is a shame that women are not treated properly." Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, Maharashtra's Prithviraj Chavan, Assam's Tarun Gogoi, Haryana's Bhupinder Singh Hooda and Meghalaya's Mukul Sangma were among those who raised concerns over misuse of social media.
The communal violence in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh claimed 50 lives
walkout by Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief N. Chandrababu Naidu in protest against the move to bifurcate Andhra Pradesh. A number of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief ministers, including the party's prime ministerial candidate and Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi did not
attend the meeting. The others from the BJP who did not attend were Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh and Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa, who attacked her Uttar Pradesh counterpart
Indian wanderlust continues despite economic woes

New Delhi: Neither the wobbly Indian rupee nor rising airfares can deter the growing wanderlust of the Indian middle class. Tr a v e l i n g has become more of a lifestyle thing, Karan Anand, head of relationships at Cox and Kings Tourism ministry figures show that 14.92 million said. Indians traveled abroad in 2012 We have observed the million in 2010. The figures are average holidays an Indian traveler however much lower than China takes is three: two are small ones which saw 82 million outbound and one is a big one. The other two tourists in 2012, making them the important things he seeks while number one global travelers. traveling is better connectivity and According to the World Travel accommodation, he added. and Tourism Council (WTTC), The change in attitude has come growth in global travel and tourism because many travelers now look at was robust in 2012 despite many these holidays as a gift to them- economic challenges. selves. The growth in the last fiscal has I work hard and I can treat been around three percent, the myself with a good break' this is the Council says. As for India, the total mantra an Indian traveler believes contribution of travel and tourism to in, said Yatra.com president Sharat the GDP was 6.6 percent in 2012 Dhall. and is forecast to rise by 7.3 percent Money isn't a constraint because in 2013. no one wants to compromise on Even though better connectivity their personal time. After all, they and low cost carriers have given are earning for their happiness, he wings to the Indian globetrotter, the added. Tourism ministry figures rise in domestic airfare by almost 40 show that 14.92 million Indians percent has resulted in travelers traveled abroad in 2012 against increasingly opting for buses and 13.99 million in 2011 and 12.99 trains as a mode of travel.
Poll bonanza for 8 mn in 7th pay panel

New Delhi: The Centre announced the seventh pay commission that will recommend higher salaries for nearly eight million of its employees and pensioners, a move that the Congress-led alliance would hope will give it some advantage in a poll year. Revised salaries would likely take effect in two years from January 1, 2016 finance minister P Chidambaram said in a statement. The last revision, which kicked in from January 1, 2006, saw pay cheques get bigger by an average 21%, costing the government an extra Rs 17,000 crore annually. The employees also got one-off arrear payments of about Rs 27,000 crore, driving up spending on assets from cars to property. The latest commission will recommend new pay structures and salary increment bands for all central government staff, including railways and defence personnel. The government usually accepts the recommendations with some changes. The names of the commissions chairperson and members as well as the terms of reference would be finalised and announced shortly after consultation with main stakeholders, Chidambaram said.
Odisha, Bihar least developed states: panel report
Goa and Kerala are the most advanced states
New Delhi: The Raghuram Rajan panel report has made a case for ending the 'special category' criteria for providing additional assistance to poorer states, as it ranked Goa and Kerala as the most advanced state and Odisha and Bihar the least. The committee, headed by the then chief economic advisor Raghuram Rajan (now RBI governor) which was set up by the government amid demand for "special category" status by Bihar, suggested a new methodology for devolving funds on states based on a 'multi dimensional index (MDI)'. Giving details of the report finance minister P Chidambaram said the committee has suggested that the 28 states be split into three categories least developed, less developed and relatively developed depending upon their MDI scores. As regards the allocation of
funds, the report suggested that each state should get a basic fixed allocation and an additional allocation depending on its development needs and development performance. The demand for funds and special attention of different States, Chidambaram said, "would be more than adequately met by the twin recommendations of the basic allocation of 0.3 per cent of overall funds to each state and the categorisation of States that scores 0.6 and above as least developed States." According to the committee, these two recommendations, along with the allocation methodology, will effectively subsume what is now "special category" status. Bihar along with some other states have been demanding "special category" status to get more funds from the Centre.
OP-ED
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Kenya's 'time bomb' and Somalian terror threat

By Vijay Naik n a recent visit to Nairobi, I along with my wife visited Westgate, an upscale mall thronged by scores of shoppers, most of them foreign tourists. The visit was provoked by an attractive full page advertisement in the inflight magazine, The Traveller Msafiri, distributed by Kenya Airways. The full-page advertisement described the mall as a ''world class shopping destination" and boasted that it is open seven days a week with ample parking and 24hour security. Westgate is surrounded by a number of eateries which serve Kenyan, Indian, Chinese and Lebanese food. This place is full of students and Indians. With an attack on Westgate, a number of Nakumatt chain of malls owned and managed by the Indian expatriate Atul Shah stand exposed to terror attacks, unless timely protection is provided to them. That Somalia's Al Shabab militia has owned up responsibility for the attack indicates what is in store for the newly elected government of President Ohuru Kenyatta and his deputy William Ruto. Both continue to face criminal charges in the
International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague for fomenting violence in general elections held in 2007. Uhuru Kenyatta has rejected the jurisdiction of the court and refused to appear before it. What can be termed as an expression of tacit support, the African Union has expressed the view that they could be tried within the country. As we landed in Nairobi, the only road connecting the airport with the capital was jam packed, as a result of which the journey to our hotel which should have taken merely 45 minutes took three hours. On way, one could see, hundreds of young people wandering aimlessly or chatting at various corners. A source in Nairobi told us that hundreds of Somali youth sneak in to Kenya daily in search of jobs, many of whom later join Al Shabaab. A number of cells of this organization work secretly in Kenya and get funds from unknown sources. This poses a duel challenge for President Kenyatta's government. First, the challenge of providing jobs to the burgeoning young population and second, to protect the country from terrorist attacks which can bring economic activity to a halt. In an article titled ''The time bomb that is millions of jobless youth",
published in a popular tabloid of Nairobi, The Standard of June, 8, 2013, Moses Michira said: ''Kenyan youths are now facing a serious unemployment time bomb. The country's number of jobless youth stands at 2.3 million. Church leaders have warned this 'demographic trap' could see more crime, militant gangs, terrorism, labor unrest and political violence. " He said that social scientists have warned that the "youth bulge", the large number of people nearing adulthood notable in demographic charts, presents the biggest hurdle in tackling violent crimes. According to UNDP, ''Every year, another 500,000 young Kenyans enter job markets from schools, colleges and universities. '' Thus the challenge on this front remains formidable for President Kenyatta. Come night, and you are warned not to venture alone on the streets of Nairobi, lest you may become victim of soaring crime. With the increase in terrorist activities, Kenya's major foreign exchange earner, tourism, might face an enormous challenge. As for most of the international tourists, the first leg of journey begins with Nairobi, then to the Great Rift Valley, to Amboseli and Naivasha. It
As hostage crisis continued in Kenya, 68 were reported to be killed in the terror attack
ends with a visit to the world famous game park, Maasai Mara. This traffic may shift to neighboring Tanzania, which has breathtaking sights, such as Mount Kilimanjaro and the equally famous Serengeti National Park. Borders of Kenya have become vulnerable to constant attacks by Al Shabaab militia since 2011. An article in the Daily Nation of Nairobi, by a columnist Muchemi Wachira, notes that before the outbreak of the attacks, Al Shabaab had vowed to take revenge against the "occupation" of their country by the Kenyan military, which has so far managed to take over Kismayu (a port town in Somalia). They had sworn that, once the port, which served as the main outlet for their smuggled goods from
Middle East and Asia, is taken over by the KDF (Kenyan Defence Forces), they (Al Shabaab) would turn Kenya into a lawless state starting with the border town of Garissa in north western Kenya.'' Due to persistent attacks by the Al Shabaab militia, Garissa has since become a ghost town, as most of the population has deserted it. Kenya shares a 700 km border with Somalia, which has become quite porous, although there are only three designated entry points at Liboi, Wajir and Mandera. The question that Wachira has posed is, as to why the Kenyan security forces have failed to contain Al Shabaab. Or are they losing the war to the terrorists? This needs an answer after the ghastly attack on Westgate.
The views expressed in Op Eds are not necessarily those of The South Asian Times.
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OP-ED
Will Modi toe the RSS line?
India reclaiming global leadership on climate change

By Rajendra Shende hen Prime Minister Manmohan Singh launched India's National Action Plan on Climate Change in 2008 and its target to reduce energy intensity, he was hailed as a global leader for taking bold steps to address the issue. More recently, India has received a wake-up call from climate-driven tragedies such as the floods in Uttarakhand and the dire droughts of 2012 and and Manmohan Singh is once again returning to a leadership role. Earlier this month, the Indian prime minister joined Chinese President Xi Jinping, US President Barack Obama and the other G-20 leaders to support "full implementation of the agreed outcomes under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)" and its ongoing negotiations towards a new UN climate treaty by 2015. India and the other G20 leaders also agreed to support "operationalization of the Green Climate Fund" and to "support...using the Montreal Protocol to phase down the production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)...," leaving HFCs within the UNFCCC and its Kyoto Protocol for "accounting and reporting of emissions." There are many benefits to India from supporting the Montreal Protocol strategy. First, with India's leadership, it will now be possible to quickly complete the consensus to phase out HFCs, providing the world with significant near-term climate protection through a treaty that never fails. The HFC phase down will avoid the equivalent of 100 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide by 2050 and up to 0.5 C of warming by the end of the century. Second, the HFC amendment will catalyze improvements in the energy efficiency of refrigerators, air conditioners (both stationary and in vehicles), and
Much will depend on how Narendra Modi handles the RSS-inspired pro-Hindu campaigns of which the VHP has given some hints
By Amulya Ganguli ven as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) cadres burst firecrackers and beat drums to celebrate Narendra Modi's nomination as the party's prime ministerial candidate, it was in the quiet environs of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) headquarters in Nagpur where the mood must have been even more joyous. For the first time since the BJP's formation three decades ago, the organization of Hindu supremacists has been able to launch someone on the road to national political power who is not only a former saffron pracharak (campaigner), but also a person who is expected by the RSS to render yeomen's service to the cause of Hindutva, or Hindu cultural nationalism. Till now, the RSS had been prevented from achieving this objective by the reluctance of the BJP's foremost leaders of the last 20 years - Atal Bihari Vajpayee and L.K. Advani - to pursue a pro-Hindu agenda. Not only that, Vajpayee even shelved the three main points of the agenda - building the Ayodhya temple, scrapping Article 370 of the Constitution granting special status to Kashmir and introducing a uniform civil code for all religious communities in India. The eagerness of the RSS did not stem from an appreciation of Modi's development plank. The RSS is not bothered about the building of roads and bridges. Its preference for Modi dates
back to the chief minister's controversial role in the 2002 riots, which made the Hindu middle class hail him for "teaching the Muslims a lesson". As Modi faces the toughest challenge of his life, he may want to emphasize his "inclusive" outlook by pushing the riots further into the background - without apologizing for them, of course but it is open to question whether the RSS will let him do so. As the attempt of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) to revive the temple issue (which was foiled by the U.P. government) showed, the saffron brotherhood seemed to believe that the reappearance of hardliner at the top provided an opportunity to the Hindutva warriors to return to the day of the Ayodhya agitation of the 1990s. Instead of Advani who led the movement at the time, it is now Modi who is at the helm while the 85-year-old former 'rath yatri' (chariot rider), who was seen to have spearheaded the demolition of the Babri mosque at Ayodhya, is currently a forlorn figure, having failed in his attempt to forestall Modi's crowning. No one knows, however, how long Advani will be shunned by his party for failing to read the "popular" mood. Much will depend on how Modi handles the RSSinspired pro-Hindu campaigns of which the VHP has given some hints. With friends such as these, Modi will not need enemies. But, it will take considerable tact, patience and determi-
nation on his part to defuse any possibility of a rise in the communal temperature, which is undoubtedly the last thing which the hero/villain of 2002 wants. Unfortunately, Modi's skills in these respects haven't been tested. In Gujarat, he rode to power in three successive elections on the basis of pro-Hindu sentiments generated by communal tension. Although he has maintained a tight control on the situation for the last 10 years, it was in a state with which he was familiar. Uttar Pradesh, however, is different. So, will be any other state where a drive against cow slaughter or Christian missionaries - two of the several targets of saffron storm-troopers - may create law and order problems. Moreover, the RSS will not be amused if Modi acts or speaks against such outbreaks. After all, the head of the Sangh Parivar (the fraternity of pro-Hindu groups) couldn't have put in so much effort to boost Modi only to have him play the moderate card a la Vajpayee and Advani. It will not be long, therefore, before the RSS and the VHP express their approval or disapproval of Modi. If it is the former, then Modi's reign will head towards a "disaster", as Advani told BJP president Rajnath Singh, since it will confirm all the standard fears about Modi. If it is the latter, then Modi will find the ground slipping from under his feet with the RSS withdrawing its cadres.
other equipment using HFCs as refrigerants. This means using less electricity to operate refrigerators and air conditioners, which means lower fossil fuel use and lower carbon dioxide emissions, giving this strategy a double climate benefit. These efficiency gains will save money for consumers and reduce India's import burden of fossil fuels and the current account deficit, a key parameter for India's recent financial crisis. Third, the HFC amendment will reaffirm the principle of "common but differentiated responsibility" for climate protection. This is a central principle for India and indeed all developing countries during all climate negotiations. Simply put, this principle means that all countries must do their part to solve climate change - our common responsibility but that some have greater responsibility and capabilities to do more, sooner - the differentiated responsibility. Fourthly, success with the HFC amendment under the Montreal Protocol will help build the trust and momentum needed to conclude a successful agreement under the UN climate negotiations in 2015. Leadership on climate policy must come from the heads of state, and the leaders of the large economies must work together to pave the way forward for all countries of the world. The agreement by India, China, and the US, along with the other G20 leaders, shows this is possible. Manmohan Singh is now preparing for a bilateral summit with the US and talks with President Obama end-September. He has an opportunity to demonstrate his leadership in climate change in a renewed way. This year India is reclaiming its rightful place as a leader among nations for the essential task of protecting our common climate and the future of humanity.
The bilateral summit with Barack Obama has an opportunity to demonstrate Manmohan Singh's leadership in climate change in a renewed way
TRISTATE COMMUNITY
September 28- October 4, 2013
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The Honorees Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano and Indian MP Priya Dutt shared the honors of presenting the awards.
Uniondale, NY: The 32nd Gala Dinner of the Nargis Dutt Memorial Cancer Foundation (NDMF) was held last weekend at the Long Island Marriott here. As every year, the event attracted a large number of Indian Americans sympathetic to the noble NDMF cause of helping the medical fraternity in India to fight cancer. Seven prominent members of the community were honored at the glittering evening. Priya Dutt, MP and Patron of the Foundation who flew in from India, appreciated the generous contributions of the Indian community to NDMF enabling it to make available to hospitals in India the equipment needed to treat cancer patients. She exhorted them to come up with ideas and funds to help the Foundation to continue with greater vigor the good work it has been doing. She praised NDMF Board as their hard work showed in the communitys response. Nassau County Chief Executive, Edward P. Mangano, was the chief guest of the evening which was attended by the who's who of the Indian community. The honor of
Chintu Patel, CEO, Amneal Pharmaceuticals Dr Vaijnath M. Chakote, giving medical care to poor Dr Vijaypal Arya, head, Endoscopy Unit, Wyckoff hospital Manohar S. Toor, construction and gas station business Dr Prem C. Goel, physician and teacher.
Priya Dutt, honoree Saleem Iqbal, HAB Bank President & CEO, his wife, Ed Mangano, and NDMF President Sher Singh Madra.
Harendra Singh, chief of Singh Hospitality Group, posing after receiving his award.
presenting the awards was shared by him and Priya Dutt. Each honoree also received a citation from the county. The honorees included Harendra Singh, chief of Singh Hospitality Group, which runs many restaurants and banquet facilities, and supports his fathers Raj and Rajeshwari Foundation; and Saleem Iqbal, President & CEO of HAB Bank (rechristened
from Habib American Bank). The other five honoree were: Chintu Patel, CEO, Amneal Pharmaceuticals; Dr Vaijnath M. Chakote, servicing medical care in poor communities in NYC; Dr Vijaypal Arya, Director, Endoscopy Unit, Wyckoff Heights Medical Center in Brooklyn; Manohar S. Toor, construction and gas station business; and Dr Prem
C. Goel, noted physician and teacher. NDMF President Sher Singh Madra recounted some of the NDMF achievements: "During its history, it has provided valuable cancer detection and treatment equipment. A radiation field analyzer was sent to the Indore Cancer Hospital and overall NDMF completed 50 such proj-
ects. We have also provided training to Indian doctors to improve their expertise in fighting cancer." Madra thanked Priya Dutt, daughter of star parents Sunil and Nargis Dutt, for her continued support, guidance and involvement with the foundation. The award ceremony was followed by a fashion show presented by Karamjit Singh Bhinder.
IALIs signature event brings a touch of India

Hauppauge, NY: India Association of Long Island (IALI) successfully held its 22nd annual signature event on September 15. The vibrant India Fest Utsav 2013 at Hyatt Regency Hotel was enjoyed free by hundreds of visitors from all over. Beautiful, multicolor costumes, Bollywood and classical music and dance, a fashion show and authentic Indian cuisine came together to celebrate Indian culture and heritage. We are building bridges with other communities and our goal is to entwine Indias cultural heritage into the beautiful multicultural tapestry of American culture, said Dr. Kishore Kuncham, president of IALI, a nonprofit that aims to promoted Indian culture. Vendors offered Indian jewelry, apparel, paintings, crafts, and handbags as well as various services. Entertainment was a day-long affair. The evening saw a fashion show by Clicbysiddhi that included Ms. Bollywood India Shivangi Maini. Bollywood singer Preeti Seth rendered popular numbers that entertained all age groups. The event was emceed by Sangeet Sharma and Monty Lokesh. Pooja Kumar, the Hollywood / Bollywood
IALI board members, honorees and dignitaries including actress Pooja Kumar at India Fest Utsav 2013. (right) Vendors offered Indian jewelry, apparel, paintings, crafts handbags as well as financial and other services.
star added excitement to the event. I love this kind of celebration; its a great way to tell our story and promote our heritage, said Pooja, who co-starred with Ed Harris in the psychological thriller Man on a Ledge and with Kamal Hasan in Vishwaroop 2. At the event, IALI honored Dr. Mohan Badhey, Chief of Vascular Surgery, Wyckoff Heights Medical Center, Dr. Anil Mathur, Chairperson, Deptt of Marketing and International Business, Hofstra University, and Sunil Modi,
President of Association of Indians in America-NY. Grand sponsors - Air India, Bethpage Federal Credit Union, and Zaveri Insurance were recognized with plaques. Present were Richard Devancy from Air India, Robert Saurez and Jessica Lucas from Bethpage Federal Credit Union, and Salil Zaveri. Gary Sikka, of The Mint Restaurant, and Rajesh Thakkar of House of Dipali, were recognized for their support.
Dignitaries who attended included representatives from Congressman Steve Israel, Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano, Assemblyman Curran, Councilwoman Goosby, Freeport Mayor Kennedy. Nassau County Director of Business & Economic Development Kamlesh Mehta, Countys Commissioner of Human Rights, Zahid Sayed, Human Rights Commissioner Sharanjit Thind, IALI past presidents, and other community leaders graced the occasion.
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ULTIMATE BOLLYWOOD
'The Good Road' India's entry for Oscar
Let's help market 'The Good Road': Sircar

icky Donor" director Shoojit Sircar feels that the film fraternity should show support to India's official entry into the Oscars, "The Good Road". The director said that it is important that the Gujarati film is marketed well. "I think now the film fraternity should collect lots of money and contribute to 'The Good Road'...they need it to market the film well...let's all join hands," he posted on micro-blogging site Twitter. Directed by Gyan Correa, the film revolves around the lives of three individuals traveling on a highway. "The Good Road" has also won the National Award for best feature film in Gujarati earlier this year.
ebut feature filmmaker Gyan Correa's Gujarati film "The Good Road" has been chosen to represent India in the best foreign film category at the Academy Awards. It is said to be the first Gujarati film to have made it."It was a unanimous decision to select 'The Good Road', which is a movie produced by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC)," renowned filmmaker Goutam Ghose, who headed the selection committee appointed by the Film Federation of India (FFI), said. The story of three individuals on a highway, "The Good Road", widely shot in Kutch district in Gujarat, had clinched the National Award for Best Feature Film
(Gujarati) earlier this year. It features actors like Sonali Kulkarni and Ajay Gehi. The movie left behind 21 other contenders, including strong films like "The Lunchbox", "Bhaag Milkha Bhaag", "English Vinglish", "Vishwaroopam", Malayalam film "Celluloid" and Bengali film "Shabdo", he said. "'The Lunchbox' was a very strong contender. I loved the film," said Ghose. Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi is delighted that "The Good Road" has been chosen as India's entry in the best foreign film category at the Oscars. "Delighted to know that Gujarati film 'The Good Road' has been chosen to represent India at Oscars. Congrats to cast
The Gujarati movie left behind 21 other contenders, including 'The Lunchbox'
and crew. My best wishes," tweeted Modi. A committee of 16 people
was appointed to make the selection.
'The Lunchbox': Desolation Rajamouli in awe of Bhansali's 'Ram Leela' , Loneliness...Perfection! T

elugu filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli, known for highly successful films such as "Eega" and "Magadheera", has admired the visuals in the trailer of filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Ram Leela". "'Ram Leela' trailer. Wow. Mindboggling visuals from Sanjay Leela Bhansali. How can he cram so much into one frame and yet make it stunning," Rajamouli posted on his Twitter page. He is amazed at how Bhansali has not made everything look cluttered. "It's not about just (the) budget. It's about the camera angles, lighting, usage of colors and textures. If we use number of colours and articles they tend to look gaudy and cluttered. Mr. Bhansali has a special skill," he posted. The trailer of "Ram Leela", which was recently released online, has received a phenomenal response so far. The film features Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone in the lead, while Richa Chadda and Gulshan Devaiah will play important roles.
Review
Nawazuddin with Irrfan in a scene from 'The Lunchbox' n Mrinal Sen's "Khandhar" desolation was defined and epitomized as much by Shabana Azmi's face and physicality as it was by the architectural ruins where Sen shot his dirge-like tale. In "The Lunchbox", debutant director Ritest Batra - is this really his first feature film?! - does not seek easy escape routes for his characters' destiny of drudgery. The film is set in the heart of Mumbai where everyone is busy making a living...or just trying to live. Right away, this extraordinary film catches your attention with the way the sounds and the relentless rhythm of that City That Never Sleeps are captured and put on screen. Not just Ila (Nimrat Kaur), the cooking, cleaning suffering housewife, even her preoccupied husband (Nakul Vaid) seems so lost in the act of existence. Even their little daughter looks so forlorn with her rag-doll, as though she needs a good cry but is not sure if Mama will be there to console her. These little life-asserting pretences we indulge ourselves into
believe that we lead meaningful lives is the crux of "The Lunchbox". Hence Ila strikes up an illusory bond of empathy with the almost-retired office-goer Fernandes (Irrfan Khan). Among the three protagonists, Nawazuddin as the deceptively shallow Sheikh has the toughest role. He must seem frivolously jovial and insensitive to Fernandes' lonely existence, though he is anything but these things. Further, he has a happy life. And that should and does fill him with a guilt he cannot express. Nawazuddin, Irrfan and Nimrat are so much in character that you wonder if these people were born before the script. The film celebrates the extraordinary ordinariness of their lives with a stark sincerity that takes away every morsel of artifice inherent in the act of filming made-up lives. If this is not the best directorial debut since Satyajit Ray in "Pather Panchali", then I am probably missing something vital. And that's what this film is about.
Bollywood has no stories to tell: John
ohn Abraham, who has been propagating offbeat and "sensible" films in a space full of masala entertainment, believes that Bollywood currently lacks "sensible" stories to tell. "We lack stories. We have no stories to tell. We put five songs with five comedy scenes and say it's done," John said. That's one reason why the 40-year-old is loving and enjoying every bit of his
new role as a film producer. Thanks to it, he is being able to serve the audience with eclectic movies - the entertaining "Vicky Donor" and the engaging "Madras Cafe". "I love the role of a producer because I make the kind of films which I want to make. I make sensible films. I think 'Vicky Donor' and 'Madras Cafe' are examples enough about the cinema which I want to propagate," he said.
Actor John Abraham
they look like different people...It is an outstanding performance," added Vivek. Directed by Rakesh Roshan, "Krrish 3" is the third film in the franchise that began with "Koi Mil Gaya" in 2003. It also features Priyanka Chopra and Kangana Ranaut. Vivek even recalls an incident when during the dubbing of the film, he became teary eyed after watching Hrithik's performance in one of the scenes from the movie. "When I was dubbing for the film, there was a very emotional scene of Rohit, being played by Hrithik in the film
ULTIMATE BOLLYWOOD
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'Krrish 3' is Hrithik's career best: Vivek Oberoi
It's medium budget thrillers this Friday
ctor Vivek Oberoi says H r i t h i k Roshan, who features in a triple role in "Krrish 3", has delivered his career's best performance in the scifi movie. "'Krrish 3' is one of Hrithik Roshan's career's best performance," Vivek said here in an interview. "To play t h r e e characters Krishna, A scene from 'Krrish 3' Krrish and Rohit and to play them so differ- and his performance and emotion ently in one film...especially there in that scene was so deep, so are scenes where they (Hrithik's beautiful that it touched my heart characters in the film) are talking deeply. to each other and the performanc- I was choked in that moment," es are so beautifully done that recalled the 37-year-old.
nlike other weekends, this Friday will witness unique genres at the box office. Rohit Khaitan's "Prague", a psychological drama, will compete with Anubhav Sinha's "Warning", which has been described as a survival film. Then there are "Super Model" and "Maazii". "All the films releasing this time are small to medium budget films. The number of screens per film won't be more than 500-600. Also, the budget will range from Rs.8 to Rs.10 crore, with 'Super Model' being less than that and 'Warning' crossing that," trade analyst Komal Nahta said. After the release date of "Prague" was shifted thrice, it will finally see the light of day this weekend. The film revolves around the lives of architects and their paranormal experiences as they set out to explore Prague. "The film has been made on an approximate budget of Rs.6 to Rs.6.5 crore which includes publicity and marketing. We cannot reveal the number of screens as of now but it will see a decent release all over India," producer Rohit Khaitan said. Shot in 3D, "Warning" also seems to be an equally
A poster of the film 'Prague'
good option for the viewers. Produced by Sinha, it stars young actors Santosh Barmola, Suzana Rodrigues, Varun Sharma, Manjari Phadnis, Jitin Gulati, Sumit Suri and Madhurima Tulii.
Big B meets Dilip Kumar in hospital
SRK to walk the ramp for Yash Chopra A

few days ago, we revealed that several actresses who have starred in Yash Chopras movies will walk the ramp to pay tribute to the late filmmaker on his birthday (September 27). And now, joining this list that currently includes the likes of Sridevi, Madhuri Dixit and Katrina Kaif, is none other than Shah Rukh Khan. The star will be the only male actor who will walk the ramp with nine Bollywood leading ladies at a fashion show that has been organized in the memory of Chopra. Shah Rukh has agreed to do the honors. He will be the showstopper at the event. It was Pamelajis (Chopra; Yash Chopras wife) idea and he was more than happy to oblige, says an insider. On his 80th birthday last year, SRK had interviewed Chopra in front of a live audience comprising industry members and journalists at a grand event in the city.
Dilip Kumar is steadily recovering after a heart attack
The star will be the only male actor who will walk the ramp with nine Bollywood leading ladies
egastar Amitabh Bachchan met veteran actor Dilip Kumar, who is steadily recovering after a heart attack, in Lilavati Hospital here. "Mr. Bachchan came to meet Dilip Kumar today around 7 p.m. they chatted for around half and hour. As far as Dilip Kumar's health is concerned he is absolutely fine and he now desperately wants to go back home," Udaya Tara Nayar, Dilip Kumar's close family friend, said.Udaya Tara also shared a picture in which Bachchan posed with Dilip Kumar, 90, along with Saira Banu and her brother Sultan Ahmed. Dilip Kumar who was in ICU ever since he was hospitalised was shifted to the general ward Sunday afternoon.The actor may get discharged from hospital in a couple of days, sources indicated. The actor was hospitalized on September 15 after he complained of uneasiness.
Sanjay Dutt to act, dance for jail fund-raiser

he acting and dancing bug has again bitten Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt who is serving a 42-month sentence at the Yerawada Central Jail (YCJ) in Pune. Sanjay, 54, along with some four dozen other inmates, has been selected to perform in a stage drama at a welfare show organized by the state Prisons Department. The mega-annual show will be held at the
Sanjay Dutt
Bal Gandharva Auditorium here, officials said. Raring to do what he loves, Sanjay has been polishing his acting-dancing skills and furiously rehearsing for the show inside the YCJ premises since the past fortnight along with the other inmates. Though jail officials remain tight-lipped on the show details, it is learnt that Sanjay and his team will perform the famous 'Lungi
dance' from the recent Shah Rukh KhanDeepika Padukone blockbuster "Chennai Express."Besides, he may also dance to a patriotic song and a number from his superhit movie, "Lage Raho Munnabhai".Shah Rukh has agreed to do the honors. He will be the showstopper at the event. It was Pamelajis (Chopra; Yash Chopras wife) idea and he was more than happy to oblige, says
18
FESTIVAL
Maharashtras folk dance Lavani.
Thousands came to the mega event on Sunday.
By Jinal Shah t a time when India is grappling with a number of problems - from financial vulnerability to a series of gang rapes- and its image abroad, Maharashtra Tourisms move to sponsor the debut Diwali event at the worlds crossroads proved fittingly right. Tens of thousands of people visited the Maharashtra Tourism Diwali at Times Square on Sunday. This promotional came close to what New York witnessed six years ago with Incredible India@60 campaign - a stunning $10 million extravaganza to promote India. Compared to that 4day promotional, Diwali at Times Square was the largest watched event showcasing India on a single day. Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation MD Jagdish Patel, said, The event was an opportunity to bring one of the most important and vibrant Indian festivals to New York and invite people from the city and across the world to experience Diwali. A section of Times Square between 45th to 47th streets on Broadway - was bustling with people dressed in traditional Indian attire as they lined up before booths set up to showcase Indian cuisine, music and fashion. The cultural festival included dance, diya, rangoli painting, Indian arts and crafts, fashion show, photo booths with ethnic outfits, celebrity autograph/photo booth and much more. Tourists and visitors enjoyed themselves thoroughly and many queued up to get the saffron Kolhapuri turban. The pointed moustache masks were another crowd-puller. Gandhi caps with the printed slogan, Maharashtra pride of India, were distributed among the public. Visitors, especially Indian Americans, flocked Times Square as early as 10 in the morning. I have seen many concerts at Times Square or other venues in New York, but never have I seen such a large congregation of Indians as here -- a great achievement, said
Neeta Bhasin, President ASB Communications who conceived the event, flanked by Maharashtra Tourism Minister Chhagan Bhujbal, Consul General Dnyaneshwar Mulay and others at Diwali@Times Square event.
Bollywood debutant Pallavi Sharda giving a dance performance.
Richa Shah who came from New Jersey with her friends. The event saw dancers performing the Maharashtrian folk dance, Lavani. Punjabi Bhangra was there too. Groups like Sangharsh and Sankalp promoted Govinda festival by forming human pyramids. Later, at the Light Up Times Square concert, Shankar Mahadevan entertained the crowd along with his musical troupe that has worked on the TV commercial of Maharashtra Tourism. The concert also saw Canada based group Culture Shock perform live on a mix of songs. Chhagan Bhujbal, Maharashtras Minister for Tourism, acknowledged the efforts of Maharashtra tourism and other stakeholders involved in this event. Bollywood actors Ranbir Kapoor, his parents Rishi and Neetu Kapoor, and debutant Pallavi Sharda made a special appearance to promote their upcoming film Besharam. Crowds went ballistic on catching a glimpse of one of Bollywood's most eligible bachelors, Ranbir. We camped here since morning only to see Ranbir Kapoor. He did a small gig, but it was worth the wait, said Prachi Doshi Dressed in a black 'sherwani', the young Kapoor danced and interacted with his fans as his father expressed gratitude for the adulation shown to him and his family. Congratulating Maharashtra Tourism for its achievement, Rishi Kapoor said, I am proud to be a
part of Maharashtra. The event garnered mixed reactions. It was disorganized; the Diwali flavor was missing. Why so many performances in English. They should have given more time to Shankar Mahadevan. The only good part was to see the Kapoors but how I wish they stayed a little more with the crowd that waited endlessly, said Deepti Kohli, on the organizers official Facebook page The event culminated with an orchestrated laser light show and fireworks on big screens. The landmark event was organized by Event Guru and ASB Communications. Maharashtra Tourism was the title sponsor, and Air India the presenting sponsor.
Singer Shankar Mahadevan entertained the crowds.
Traditional Indian dresses were showcased at the fashion show.
Actor Ranbir Kapoor charming the crowd.
INDIA FEATURES
19
This world record is a matter of shame not pride: Irom Sharmila holds the world record of longest fast. This October she completes 13 years of fasting in protest against the draconian AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act 1958) imposed on North East India, which has alienated people there. She is force fed in an Imphal hospital to keep her alive.
Irom Sharmila The Iron Lady of Manipur

By Namita Pandey Unshackle me from this chain of thorns... that bind me, in this narrow room, for no fault of mine, like a caged bird. -- Irom Sharmila hese words express the anguish of the poet so aptly, but no ordinary poet is she. She is social activist and has been a political prisoner for 13 excruciating years. Her grave crime protesting by Gandhian methods of fasting against the AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act 1958) in North East India since 2000. We all have fasted at some stage in our lives, for health or religious reasons, in varying intensity. While Navratras or Ramadan may be our biggest achievement, here we are talking about a person who had her last meal on 4th Nov 2000 and has not eaten anything since. She does not comb her hair, clip her nails or brush her teeth. All this is not to serve any personal health or religious wish, but to stand in support of the people of Manipur against the routine human rights violations and central governments apathy towards this small state in the north east. She has become the mascot of strength and perseverance of Manipur. To the obvious question as to how she is still alive, the answer is tedious and cruel Irom Sharmila is lodged in Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital in Imphal amid tight security and is being forcibly fed by nasal tube twice a day to keep her alive.
were killed were members of the same family. This event was reported in newspapers on 3rd and 4th November and left such a lasting impact on Sharmila, then 28 years old, that she decided to fast in protest. Her demand was to repeal the draconian rule and reinstate the integrity of Manipur and the North Eastern region. In her long protest, many political parties vouched support for her and her cause, but true to Indian democracy, nothing moves beyond lipservice. To further rub salt to wounds, there was a half hearted inquiry on the accused army personnel and later all were acquitted. There have been many high-level judicial inquiries and committee findings into AFSPA and human rights violations in Manipur, each time triggered by fresh reports of rape, killings and denial of basic human rights and dignity by Indian Army. None of the recommendations have been considered or made public. To add insult to grave injuries, Human Rights Commission of the State also lies defunct since 2010. The protest Ironically, Sharmila holds the world record of longest running fast. As an Indian, I do not know whether to feel proud of the fact that she has chosen such a non-violent way of protesting. It is a shame that even after six decades of independence, parts of India are so alienated. In October, Sharmila completes 13 years of her fast. Her brother, the only person allowed to meet Sharmila regularly, recollects, Until 2004, it was lonely and difficult. Between 2004-06, she started to get recognised nationally and internationally for her continued non-violent persistence. By 2006, she became an epitome of non-violent public protests all over the world. She is a strong believer in the principle of non-violence and draws inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi. In Sharmilas own words, I am lonely but not alone in this fight. She has support of the people of Manipur, North East and the rest of India. She gets hundreds of letter and wishes from followers and supporters, some requesting her to end her fast, some showing solidarity with her cause and some plainly in
awe of her unique life. Sharmila and Indian Government While in AIIMS Delhi and in the Imphal hospital, she has written many letters to the Prime Minister and President, requesting them to repeal the ghastly AFSPA Act, imposed on the people of north east. She also reiterated that North East is an integral part of India and should not be treated differently, or with disbelief or skepticism. To her dismay, she has not even received an acknowledgement or reply to any of her letters. Sharmila faces many charges, most being related to attempt to suicide. The first time she was charged soon after she began her fast- police forcibly used nasal tube feeding to keep her alive. Sharmila
taken back to the same ward that has become prison not only for her body but her soul as well. In the hospital, she is being kept forcibly alive by feeding twice a day, through a tube going down her stomach from her nose. She has seen her mother just once in 10 years and is not allowed any visitors at all. Her only companion is a daily diary that she maintains from her jail hospital ward and the letters and wishes of her well wishers and supporters. National and international recognition Sharmila has been recognised nationally and internationally for her persistent and unrelenting efforts in bringing the cause of North Eastern India to the forefront. She was awarded the 2007 Gwangju Prize for Human Rights, sharing it with Lenin Raghuvanshi of People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights, a northeastern human rights organization. In 2009, she was given the first Mayillama Award of the Mayillama Foundation "for achievement of her nonviolent struggle in Manipur". In 2010, she won a lifetime achievement award from the Asian Human Rights Commission. Later that year, she won the Rabindranath Tagore Peace Prize of the Indian Institute of Planning and Management, and the Sarva Gunah Sampannah "Award for Peace and Harmony" from the Signature Training Center. All these awards and recognitions are just hollow decorations for her. She is looking forward to the day when Indian government repeals the imposition of AFSPA. Sharmila and India Against Corruption India Against Corruption (IAC) movement was a ray of hope for many alienated communities and marginalized groups in far flung corners of the country. Sharmila and people from the North East also showed cohesion with IAC and invited Anna Hazare and his team to
How it all started AFSPA is widely believed to be responsible for violence and feeling of alienation in North East India. There have been reports of many human rights violations by unchecked powers given to armed forces under AFSPA, wherein the army can detain or kill anyone without notice and cannot be questioned. One that shook inner conscience of Sharmila was on 2nd Nov 2000, when 10 innocent civilians, harmlessly waiting for a bus at a bus stop, were gunned down by the men of Assam Rifles on the suspicion of allegiance to Maoists. Those killed included a 62-year-old woman and an 18-year-old Child Bravery Award winner of 1988. Many of those who
Irom Sharmila has received several national and international awards for her persistent protest, and been widely featured in media.
rebuts the charge, insisting that a firm believer in Gandhian principles, she will never commit suicide. She is treading on the path shown by the Mahatma himself, of nonviolence and using your own body and self-harm as weapon to protest against misuse of power. She also firmly believes in standing up against injustice, because not speaking against the wrong is as bad as inflicting wrong. The fortnightly drill of visiting a local magistrate is a ritual Sharmila is used to. The magistrate completes the formality of asking her to end her fast, to which her reply is a firm and predictable no. Then, she is
visit Manipur to observe the situation first-hand. She holds the aging Gandhian in high regard and thanks him for all the attention she got from the movement. Team Anna understood and reiterated from the spotlight stage of IAC movement in 2011 and 2012 that there are several groups in all regions of India that are fighting their own lonely battles on basic issues, not only against the apathy of the state but also against the denial of vital rights of communities to be able to take their own decisions. IAC and Sharmilas fight are woven by the same thread of ensuring participative democracy and not just representative democracy currently practiced in India. In late 2011, Anna sent two representatives to meet with Sharmila and to assure her of support and strength of Indian people and to stand with her morally against the arrogant state and central governments. Sharmilas is a fight of entitlement, of pride in ones identity and struggle to demand equality in ones own country. There are many indigenous groups fighting non-violent battles for their lands, rights and equality in India. The indifferent attitude of successive governments have led to increasing feeling of isolation and alienation among the youth of such marginalized communities. Such misled youth are a ripe playground for extremists to take advantage. It is also an opportunity for neighboring countries to exercise their domination slyly. China is already claiming a part of Sikkim and Ladakh. India Against Corruption movement and Aam Aadmi Party are a non-violent result of such aspirations of common man for change and entitlement. For the sake of India, lets hope that this movement succeeds. The writer is a Melbourne based member of Aam Aadmi Party and can be reached at aap.aussie@gmail.com
20
DIASPORA
Rare bust of Rammohun Roy unveiled in Britain

Bristol (Britain): A bigger bust by noted previously unknown English sculptor ivory portrait bust of George Clarke social reformer Ram(1796-1842), for mohun Roy was unwhom Roy sat in veiled by an art histoLondon. Roy arrived rian at the Arnos Vale in Liverpool in April Cemetery here at a 1831 and died here commemoration in 1833. event to mark the Wilson said: 180th anniversary of "Rammohun Roy his death Sep 27, had a dislike of por1833. traits and personal Every year, this adulation, but agreed south-west English to sit to the sculptor town holds a comas a favor to Basil memoration event to Montagu, whose mark Roy's death anown bust had earlier niversary in Arnos been carved by Vale, where his reClarke. Montagu was Ivory bust of mains were interred a friend of RammoRammohun Roy in an Indian-style hun Roy, and held littomb built by Dwarkanath Tagore erary soirees at his house in Bedin 1843. ford Square, very near to the house Describing the ivory bust, art of the Hare bothers at which Ramhistorian David Wilson Sunday mohun Roy lived while in Lonsaid it was made in 1832 by the don." Wilson told that details about noted nineteenth century English the ivory bust were traced after ivory carver, Benjamin Cheverton nearly six months of research after (1796-1876). he was approached by the owner The ivory bust is a replica of a who wanted to remain anonymous.
Indian origin businessmen biggest losers in Nairobi

Nairobi: Kenyan businessmen of Indian origin are emerging as the biggest losers of the Nairobi mall terror attack, with the community suffering loss of lives as well as millions of dollars in destroyed businesses and lost opportunities. The community has so far lost 10 members, including three Indian nationals as confirmed by deputy high commissioner of India to Kenya Tanmaya Lal. "The country (India) has lost three nationals in the Westgate mall attack," Lal said adding that "all the details concerning the victims are available on the website of the Indian ministry of External affairs." He could not, however, say whether nine Gujarati Indians had died in the mall raid staged by the Al Shabaab terror group based in neighboring war-ravaged Somalia. With the siege on the mall entering the fourth day Tuesday, the up-market area dominated by Indians remained out of bounds to the public, occasioning huge losses to Indian-owned business. The mall holds more than 80 shops, cafes, banks and gyms, and the leading Nakumatt supermarkets owned by the Shah family of third generation Indians and where a fire was reported to be burning since Monday night. Over 90 percent of the businesses at the mall are owned by Indians as happens in majority of wealthy areas of the capital of the East African country. Among the dead are employees of Bank of Baroda and Paramount Bank, both owned by Kenyan-Indians. Paramount Bank CEO Ayaz Merali lost his wife Salima Ayaz Merali and young daughter Nuriannu Ayaz Merali. Also among the dead is an employee of Bank of Bar-
People running away from the West Gate Mall
oda, Malti Ramesh Vaya. Bidco oil refineries, one of the biggest cooking fat makers in East Africa and owned by Vimal Shah, also lost senior employee Mitul Amritlal Shah. Also confirmed dead is Lalit Kumar Solanki, a popular TV cooking show host. In New Delhi, India's external affairs ministry Tuesday said another Indian, Sudharshan B. Nagaraj from Bangalore, was among those killed. This raises to three the number of Indians killed in the attack. "The toll of Indian citizens killed in Westgate attack rises. Sudharshan B. Nagaraj from Bangalore sadly identified as among those killed. He was in the book trade and had only come to Nairobi on Sep 20," said the ministry. Earlier, Sridhar Natarajan, 40, from Tamil Nadu, and Paramshu Jain, eight, the son of Bank of Baroda's Nairobi branch manager, were identified as among those killed by Islamist Al Shabab militants.
Indian-Canadian Prem Watsa comes to rescue of Blackberry

Washington, DC: Hyderabad-born IITian Prem Watsa, who has come to the rescue of floundering mobile company BlackBerry, has been variously described as "Canada's Warren Buffett", and "billionaire king of lost causes." Watsa, 61, chairman and chief executive of Torontobased Fairfax Financial, which has made the $4.7-billion deal to buy BlackBerry, "has acquired a sort of legendary status", according The Verge, a reputed technology site. "It began with the rags-to-riches tale of a young student who turned his back on chemical engineering school, eventually becoming one of Canada's wealthiest investors," it said hailing him as "billionaire king of lost causes." "But while Watsa has a history of investing when things look bleak, he has never before done a deal of this size, nor executed a trade in which his company will likely be forced to take such a large operational role," the Verge said. Noting that BlackBerry lost nearly $1 billion in just the last quarter, it said: "To stem the bleeding, Watsa will have to take drastic measures, potentially selling off large parts of the company and shuttering its consumer phone business entirely." Watsa's "investment acumen in Canada is nearly unrivalled", said Canada's Global News noting that "he's earned the title 'Canada's Warren Buffet' by making profits from bets on companies and market trends that
Indian cinema's 100 years: Celebrations in Jakarta too

Jakarta: The Indian embassy here will Sep 23 launch a series of events under the theme 'Weave of Friendship' to celebrate the centenary year of Indian cinema. The celebrations will be held Sep 23-27. The five-day gala will have a Ramayana cultural show, fashion show depicting Ikat tradition, film poster exhibition, film seminar, screening of iconic films and a musical performance by famous Bollywood trio Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy. The entry to most of the events is free. The festival has India's national bird peacock as its logo, and it aims to signify the multidimensional beauty and pride of Indian cinema. A grand fashion show by Indonesian designer Didet Maulana, who will showcase Indonesian and Indian Ikat through his designs, will kick off the fest. The first Indian feature film, "Raja Harishchandra", will also be shown on the occasion along with a short documentary celebrating 100 years of Indian Cinema brought out by the Directorate of Film Festivals, India. A selection of 15 iconic Indian films, including Karan Johar's "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, will be screened at the festival. A seminar 'Our Films, Their Films' will be organized on the third day of the festival. It will explore the untapped potential that exists between the Indian and Indonesian film industries.
Prem Watsa
looked ill-advised at the time, but later turned out to be shrewd decisions." Hyderabad-born Watsa completed his bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology in 1971. He joined BlackBerry's board in early 2012 when Fairfax moved to become the Waterloo firm's biggest shareholder, joining the board to help implement a turnaround plan. He resigned in mid-August as Fairfax was circling in with a bid to take BlackBerry private. According to his biography as chancellor of the University of Waterloo, Watsa moved to Ontario in 1972 and later completed an MBA from the University of Western Ontario.
SUBCONTINENT
21
Toll rises to 238 in Pak earthquake

Islamabad: The death count in the devastating earthquake that rocked Pakistan's Balochistan province has climbed to 238, an official said. Jan Mohammad Buledi, spokesman of the Balochistan provincial government, confirmed the toll, Geo News reported. Buledi said all six districts of Balochistan - Turbat, Awaran, Panjgor, Chagi, Khuzdar and Gawadar - were jolted by the earthquake but Awaran was the worst-hit. The 7.7-magnitude quake struck Awaran and its neighboring districts at 4.29 p.m. on Tuesday. The Pakistan Meteorological Department said several aftershocks, including one measuring 5.9 onm Richter scale, were recorded following the major quake and strong tremors were also felt in south Sindh and east Punjab provinces of the country, reported Xinhua. Rasheed Gadozai, deputy commissioner of Awaran, said an esti900, said army sources. The army rescuers have set up a base camp in Khuzda, a district in central Balochistan, 120 km northeast of the epicentre. Officials in Awaran said one of the serious problems facing the rescue operation was the lack of doctors and medical facilities. Some of the people injured in the earthquake were shifted to Karachi, they added.
78 dead in Pakistan church attack

The Balochistan government has declared emergency in the six quake-hit districts
mated 100,000 people have been affected in Awaran. Awaran is one of the poorest districts in Balochistan, with a population of less than 120,000. The actual situation in the quake-hit areas was not clear, as many of the villages affected by the earthquake were hard to access, said Rasheed Gadozai.
The Balochistan government has declared emergency in the six quake-hit districts and has started rescue operation along with the army and other security forces. The Pakistani Army Wednesday sent 600 more soldiers to the quake-hit areas, taking the total number of army personnel involved in the rescue operation to
Islamabad: At least 78 people were killed and 106 wounded in Pakistan's Peshawar city after two suicide bombers blew themselves up near a church where worshippers had gathered for mass service. Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of the bomb disposal squad Shafqat Malik said that two bombers exploded themselves up in the church during Sunday prayers, killing at least 78 people and injuring 106. Eye witnesses said the bombers were wearing police uniforms. The dead include 34 women
and seven children in the attack at the historic 130-yearold white-stone All Saints Church at the Kohati Gate area of the city, Information Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province Shah Farman said. The provincial government, Bishop Churches of Pakistan and several politicial parties have announced three days of mourning to condemn the blasts. The national flag would be flown at half mast at the all official buildings in the provincial capital, the minister said.
'Sharif, Manmohan meeting a move towards peace'
India welcomes Sri Lanka provincial poll results

New Delhi: India welcomed the successful holding of provincial elections in Sri Lanka on September 21 that saw the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) emerge victorious in the Northern Province Council. In a statement, the external affairs ministry said India also looks forward to the Sri Lankan government implementing "other important commitments made to the international community, including full implementation of the 13thAmendment and going beyond it". The TNA won 30 out of 38 seats 28 direct and 2 bonus seats - while ruling United People's Freedom Front (UPFA) bagged seven seats and the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) won one seat. The statement said the "high voter turnout and the enthusiastic participation of various political parties demonstrate the continuing commitment of the people of Sri Lanka to democratic values and elections for representative bodies at various levels, including the Provincial Councils".
Tamil National Alliance (TNA) emerged victorious in the Northern Province Council
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is scheduled to meet India's Premier Manmohan Singh in New York
Islamabad: A "potentially fruitful endeavor" for Pakistan may take place in the US when Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif meets India's Premier Manmohan Singh, said a Pakistani daily which described it as a "move towards peace". "A potentially fruitful endeavor for Pakistan may end up taking place on the sidelines of the General Assembly session...," said the News International in an editorial. "This will be an ideal opportunity for the two leaders to put behind them the LoC (Line of Control) fracas and move towards peace. This preliminary meeting obviously will not lead to any immediate deals or breakthroughs but could spur bilateral visits and agreements," the daily said. "Should Nawaz Sharif return to Pakistan with better prospects for this, it will have made the New York trip worthwhile," it added. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharifs
six-day visit to New York for the opening session of the UN General Assembly comes at a time when world attention has once been focused on the country for the church attack in Peshawar. The daily noted that when Nawaz Sharif addresses the session Sep 27, he "will be expected to speak forcefully on militancy and what Pakistan is doing to combat it". "Back home, we are busy discussing whether negotiations should be pursued with the Taliban but the international community needs to be reassured that talks are only one possible method of reaching our ultimate goal of defanging the militants." "Fears of terrorism linked to Al-Qaeda and other ideologically like-minded groups are at an alltime high after the hostage drama in Kenya. Pakistan has to demonstrate its commitment to no longer being a safe haven and training ground for militants," said the editorial.
It said India has "noted the positive statements made by the TNA and the Government of Sri Lanka. It is indeed a matter of satisfaction that they have expressed willingness to work with each other for the progress of the people of the Northern Province". India urged both sides "to engage constructively, in a spirit of partnership and mutual accommodation, so that the urgent needs of the people of the Northern Province, which has recently emerged from the throes of a 30-year long armed conflict, are
addressed with a sense of urgency and purpose. "Only such a cooperative approach will pave the way for genuine reconciliation between the communities involved," it said. India is "committed to working with both the sides to further this process, so that all communities in Sri Lanka, including the minorities, can feel that they are equal stakeholders in a united Sri Lanka and can look forward to a future marked by equality, justice, dignity and selfrespect".
Afghan president leaves for China on official visit

Kabul: Afghan President Hamid Karzai has left for a four-day official visit to the neighboring state of China, said a statement issued by Arg, the country's presidential palace. "Afghan President Hamid Karzai, leading a high-level delegation, left this morning to China for an official visit which is at the official invitation of his Chinese counterpart," said the statement. The Afghan leader will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Keqiang and other Chinese leaders during his trip, it added. The leaders of the two nations will discuss a range of issues, including enhancing political, military, economic and cultural relations besides discussing the regional situation, the statement said. During the visit, Karzai will also attend the opening ceremony of the Euro-Asia Economic Forum (EAEF) 2013 where he will deliver a speech, it noted.
22
INTERNATIONAL
UN chemical weapons Kenya mall siege over, 72 killed experts back in Syria
Nairobi: The four-day siege involving suspected Somali Islamist militants at Nairobi's Westgate shopping center ended with 72 people dead, including six soldiers and five militants, Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta announced. Five attackers were shot dead by troops and 11 suspects are in custody, Kenyatta said in a televised address to the nation, reported BBC. He declared three-day national mourning starting from Wednesday. "Fellow Kenyans, we have been badly hurt and feel great pain and loss, but we have been brave, united and strong. Kenya has stared down great evil and triumphed," he said. The president also informed that three floors of the Westgate shopping center had collapsed during the "tail end" of the operation and there were still at least three bodies in the rubble. Kenya has "shamed and defeated our attackers" but the "losses are immense", he said while admitting the death of 61 civilians and six soldiers in the operation. Stating that several bodies, lying under rubble from collapsed parts of the building were yet to be recovered, the Kenyan president added some 62 others people were hospitalized. Many others were being treated for
UN inspectors in Syria
A priest prays for victims of the Shopping mall attack near the Westgate shopping center in Nairobi, Kenya
Damascus: UN inspectors returned to Syria to pursue a probe into alleged poison gas attacks, as Russia and the West wrangled over how to eliminate President Bashar al-Assad's banned chemical weapons. The group, led by chief expert Ake Sellstrom, flew to Beirut in Lebanon and traveled by overland convoy via the Masnaa border post to Damascus. US President Barack Obama demanded tough Security Council action against Syria as the conflict there dominated debate at the annual UN General Assembly.
There was clear evidence that sarin gas was used in an attack in the Eastern Ghouta neighborhood near Damascus on August 21, the report said. Last month's attack, which the Syrian opposition and some parts of the international community blame on the regime, prompted Washington to threaten military action against Damascus. Assad's government denies using chemical weapons against its own people, and has agreed to a US-Russian plan that will see it hand over its chemical arsenal for destruction.
shock and are undergoing counseling. Assuring the public a thorough investigation of the siege, Kenyatta said: "I promise that we shall have a full accountability for the mindless destruction, deaths, pain, loss and suffering we have all undergone as a national family. The dead also included three Indians. Sudharshan B. Nagaraj from Bangalore, was identified among the dead. "He was in the book trade and had only come to Nairobi on Sep 20," an Indian External Affairs ministry state-
ment said. Earlier, Sridhar Natarajan, 40, from Tamil Nadu, and Paramshu Jain, eight, the son of a Bank of Baroda's Nairobi branch manager, were identified as among those killed in the Islamist militants' terror strike in the Westgate mall. Meanwhile, Scotland Yard in London confirmed that a team of officers has traveled to Nairobi to help with "post incident procedures" including gathering scientific evidence as well as supporting the work of British coroners.
No handshake, but US-Iran ties set to thaw

Washington: A historic handshake between US President Barack Obama and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani was not to be. But in unmistakable signs of thaw both leaders signaled in their UN speeches a willingness to talk, with Obama saying Washington was "not seeking regime change" and Rouhani stating that Tehran "does not seek to increase tensions" with the US. Taking the floor first at the UN General Assembly, Obama responding to what he called "positive signals" from Iran offered a diplomatic path to solve Tehran's nuclear issue. At the same time he made clear that the US was committed to preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon saying "We will not tolerate the development or use of weapons of mass destruction." America's "difficult history" with Iran can't be overcome overnight as "the suspicion runs too deep," Obama told the annual gathering of world leaders but he did see an opportunity to take a "major step down a long road toward a different relationship." "The road blocks may prove to be too great, but I firmly believe that the diplomatic path must be tested," Obama said assuring Tehran "We are not seeking regime change, and we respect the right of the Iranian people to access peaceful nuclear energy." impetus to his offer with a "chance encounter" and a handshake with Rouhani. But shortly before Rouhani spoke, two senior administration officials told reporters that the two would not be meeting as such an encounter proved too complicated for Iran back home. Hours later, Rouhani striking a conciliatory tone signalled Iran's willingness to "engage immediately in time-bound and result-oriented talks to build mutual confidence and removal of mutual uncertainties. "Nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction have no place in Iran's security and defence doctrine, and contradict our fundamental religious and ethical convictions," he said. Decrying international sanctions against Iran Rouhani said: "Sanctions, beyond any and all rhetoric, cause belligerence, war-mongering and human suffering." Asserting that "Iran seeks to resolve problems, not to create them," Rouhani said his country "does not seek to increase tensions with the United States." The Iranian leader said he listened carefully to US President Barack Obama's speech and hoped that the United States "will refrain from following the shortsighted interests of warmongering pressure groups" so that the two nations "can arrive at a framework to manage our differences."
Merkel wins, but needs coalition ally

Berlin: German Chancellor Angela Merkel may have won an impressive third general election but she faces a delicate and lengthy task in forming a new government as party leaders met Monday to map out their next steps. Merkel's Union bloc achieved its German Chancellor best result in 23 Angela Merkel years Sunday to put her on course for a third term, winning 41.5% of the votes and finishing only five seats short of an absolute majority in the lower house. However , Merkel's pro-business coalition partner crashed out of parliament. Germany has no tradition of minority governments , so Merkel looks likely to end up leading either a "grand coalition" with the center-left Social Democrats of defeated challenger Peer Steinbrueck reviving the alliance that ran Germany in her first term. Less likely would be a coalition with the environmentalist Greens. Markets were fairly subdued in their response to the election results.
US President addressing UN General Assembly
The president also said he is directing Secretary of State John Kerry to work with Iran's government on a diplomatic solution to the issue of Iran's nuclear programme. Kerry will meet Thursday with Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif along with his counterparts from five permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany negotiating to contain Iran's nuclear programme. Thursday's meeting would be the first formal face-to-face session between the top US and Iranian diplomats since the overthrow of pro-American Shah Mohammed Reza Pahlavi more than 34 years ago. As Obama spoke there was widespread speculation that he may give further
BUSINESS
23
India-US summit to boost trade, investment

Washington: US President Barack Obama's meeting with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh here this Friday - the third between the two leaders in four years - will provide them an opportunity to chart a course toward enhanced trade, investment and development cooperation, according to the White House. The summit meeting "will highlight India's role in regional security and stability," White House spokesperson Josh Earnest told reporters accompanying Obama on a visit to Kansas City, Missouri. It would also "provide an opportunity for the two leaders to chart a course toward enhanced trade, investment, and development cooperation between the United States and India," he said. Earnest recalled that the "bilateral meeting" at the White House "follows the Prime Minister's visit
New petrochemcial complex to come up at Barmer

By Prakash Bhandari Jaipur : A Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and Rajasthan government joint venture company will build the country' first indigenous petrochemical complex at Pachpadra in Barmer district of Rajasthan at a cost of Rs 17,000 crore. The proposed petrochemical complex named HPCLRajasthan Refinery Limited would produce besides petrol and diesel, kerosene, wax, asphalt, polypropylene, and other hydrocarbons. The refinery and the petrochemical complex are expected to generate 25,000 jobs. The proposed refinery will be a subsidiary of HPCL with equity of 74 percent and rest 26 percent held by the Rajasthan government. Petroleum minister Veerappa Moily said that the state is earning Rs 5,000 crore per annum by way of royalty and Rs 8,000 crore by taxes and excise by way of devolution. He said the state government would be earning Rs 20,000 crore per annum with the increase in oil production and from refinery and petro-chemical complex. There will be a direct and indirect economic benefit to the economy of Rajasthan, which will, besides industrialization, result in substantial increase in income, output, employment and tax earnings. According to S. Roychoudhry, HPCL chairman, in the beginning the refining capacity of the Pachpadra refinery will be nine million tonnes per annum, which will eventually match the crude oil produced from the fields operated by Cairn India in Barmer. The refinery capacity can be increased with the increase in crude production from the Cairn fields and also with higher import of crude.
Manmohan Singh's visit is expected to focus on how to operationalize the landmark India-US civil nuclear deal
to Washington in 2009 and the President's memorable visit to India in 2010" but gave no details of their agenda. President Obama who has described India-US rela-
tionship as one of the "defining partnerships of the 21ST century" had chosen to invite Manmohan Singh for his presidency's first state dinner in Nov 2009.
'US Fed tapering non-event for Indian markets'

Mumbai: The final tapering of the US Federal Reserve's bond buyback, which was postponed indefinitely last week but may happen anytime next year, will not have much impact on domestic markets as most of the news has already been factored in, says a top Axis Mutual Fund official. "We don't see much impact of the actual announcement of tapering by US Fed on the domestic market as much of the news has already been factored in by our market," Managing Director and Chief Executive of Axis Mutual Fund Chandresh Nigam said. He further said the possibility of complete withdrawal of bond-buying programme by the mid of next year is little less as expected earlier. Late May, the US Fed had hinted at reducing its USD 85 billion bond buyback programme per month as the economy showed signs of recovery. This had hit the Indian economy hard with the rupee, bonds and equity markets witnessing sharp volatility as FIIs pulled out money to the tune of over USD 13 billion till early September, mostly from the debt segment.
Inflation demon back to hound Indian policymakers

New Delhi: When Raghuram Rajan moved to Mint Street in Mumbai earlier this month, expectations were high that he would ease the monetary policy to support growth. Contrary to expectations, Rajan hiked the key policy interest rate in his debut policy review announced just a fortnight after he took charge as the Reserve Bank of India governor Sep 4. Rajan termed the situation "worrisome" and said headline inflation would remain much higher than the earlier projection in the absence of an "appropriate policy response." The RBI has been fighting against inflation for nearly three years without much success. Rajan's predecessor Duvvuri Subbarao was often criticized as "hawkish" for maintaining a tight monetary policy post the 2008-09 global financial crisis, despite the slowdown in economic growth. Inflation gradually declined from the second half of the last financial
New RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan
year and fell below five percent in April, the first month of the current fiscal 2013-14. The headline inflation had come within the comfort zone of the RBI for the first time in more than three years. Inflation remained below five percent in May and June. But it acceler-
ated to a six-month high of 6.1 percent in August. The more worrying was food inflation that surged to 18.18 percent, the highest level in nearly three years. Most analysts feel inflation would worsen in the coming months led by food and fuel price rise.
24
SPORTS
Lalit Modi banned for life by BCCI Supreme Court hearing crucial for Srinivasan
Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi is banned from all its activities on charges of serious misconduct and indiscipline
Chennai: The Indian cricket board banned for life Lalit Modi, former IPL chairman and commissioner, from all its activities on charges of serious misconduct and indiscipline. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decision came minutes after the Supreme Court rejected Modi's plea to put on hold the board's Special General Meeting (SGM) in Chennai. At the SGM, chaired by BCCI president Narayanaswami Srinivasan, Modi was "found guilty of committing acts of serious misconduct and indiscipline, and therefore, in exercise of powers as per Regulation 32 of the Memorandum and Rules and Regulations of the Board" banned him for life. "Resolved that Mr. Lalit Modi is guilty of committing acts of serious misconduct and indiscipline, and therefore, in exercise of powers as per Regulation 32 of the Memorandum and Rules and Regulations of the Board, Mr. Lalit Modi be and is hereby expelled from the BCCI. He shall forfeit all his rights and privileges as Administrator. He shall not in future be entitled to hold any position or office, or be admitted in any Committee or as any member or
associate member of the Board," BCCI secretary Sanjay Patel said in a statement. The SGM discussed the 134-page inquiry report submitted by the BCCI's special disciplinary committee, comprising senior vice-president Arun Jaitley, former IPL chairman Chirayu Amin and Jyotiraditya Scindia. The committee had detailed the alleged irregularities that Modi committed from the time the IPL's governing council approved the draft of the Invitiation to Tender (ITT) in December 2009 - for adding two more teams to the league - to Modi's eventual suspension in April 2010. In fact, it was the introduction of the Kochi franchise that spelt Modi's doom. The case of Kochi constitutes three of the eleven charges pressed against Modi, including rigging bids, arm-twisting franchises and bringing the BCCI into disrepute through his comments on Twitter. As a last ditched attempt to avoid the life-ban, Modi requested the BCCI to adjourn the SGM and also said that he was willing to appear before it through video conferencing. The pleas were not allowed.
New Delhi: The question whether beleaguered Indian cricket board president Narayanaswami Srinivasan will get a third year in office will be decided by the Supreme Court when it hears a plea seeking to restrain him from chairing Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the board in Chennai. "All right, we will hear it Friday," said a bench headed by justice A.K. Patnaik when counsel for Cricket Association of Bihar (CAB) sought an urgent hearing of the plea before the Chennai AGM. CAB, which is not recognized by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), had filed a petition in the apex court Monday to restrain Srinivasan from chairing the AGM. CAB secretary Aditya Verma, in his application, also sought to restrain the BCCI from inducting Srinivasan in any of its committees as member or allow him to participate in any of the proceedings in any capacity. If the court admits the plea and restrains Srinivasan from chairing the meeting, it will be a big setback for the self-exiled chief of the Indian cricket board. In the event of the court restraining him, board circles feel
BCCI president Narayanaswami Srinivasan
that the AGM itself could be put off till the stay is vacated or the case itself is disposed. There is already a groundswell of opposition in the board against Srinivasan contesting the election in view of the Mumbai police pressing charges of betting and criminal conspiracy against his son-in-law Gurunath Meiyappan, principal of the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Chennai Super Kings (CSK), in Mumbai High Court Saturday. Srinivasan, whose company India Cements owns CSK, has
distanced himself from Meiyappan, who is among the 22 people chargesheeted by the investigators. There appears to be no end to Srinivasan's troubles. He and India Cements figure among those chargesheeted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in a corruption case involving Y.S.R. Congress Party chief Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy. In the charge-sheet relating to India Cements, CBI named Srinivasan, its managing director, as accused number three.
Do you feel strongly about something? Do you want to overcome the writers block?
Dear Reader, Citizen journalism is an essential component of a healthy democracy. Here is an opportunity to make yourself heard. The South Asian Times (TSAT) is your voice. If you feel strongly about something, do share your views with us and other readers. If you belong to a community group, association or society, send us information about its activities. Your contributions will be published with your name and photograph in the online and print editions of TSAT. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. We have surprise
1. Are America and allies justified in attacking Syria without UN Security Council sanction over chemical weapons use? 2. What do you think is the reason for rupee's slide against the
Ranchi: India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni's new Mohawk hairstyle
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dollar? 3. What is your take on the Immigration Bill being worked in Congress? How is it going to affect you personally? Are you for or against it?
Titans at the JSCA International Stadium Complex here Sunday. The new look reminded the fans of soccer stars D a v i d Beckham and M a r i o Balotelli. When Dhoni made his international debut he had long locks which were also praised by former Pakistani president Mahendra Singh Dhoni's P a r v e z Mohawk hairstyle Musharraf. has become a rage among Sources said that it was his fans in the cricketer's celebrity hair stylist hometown. Sapna Bhavnani, who was From sporting long a contestant in the sixth locks to the latest bald season of Big Boss, who buzz cut, the Chennai gave the new cut to Super Kings skipper has Dhoni. been adventurous with his "Dhoni is Dhoni and he hairstyles. He revealed his looks great whatever hair new hairstyle when he style he keeps," said took off his helmet while Amrit Raj, a die-hard wicketkeeping against the Dhoni fan.
Dhoni's new hairstyle a Fixing in Snooker! Lee rage among fans gets 12-year ban
London: England's Stephen Lee was banned for 12 years after being found guilty of seven charges of matchfixing, snooker's world governing body announced. The 38-year-old Lee, the former world number five, was found guilty by an independent tribunal last week of match-fixing charges relating to seven matches in 2008 and 2009 and the sanction imposed Wednesday. Lee was also ordered to pay 38,000 ($61,000) costs. Jason Ferguson, the chairman of the World Professional Snooker and Billiards A s s o c i a t i o n (WPBSA), the sport's global governing body, said: "We take no pride in having to deal with such serious issues.
Stephen Lee
26
SELF HELP
why youre doing so. If stress, anxiety or sadness is a factor, take a study break to chat with friends or go on a walk. Smart Snacks Late nights and stress can lead to bingeing, so dont keep junk food on hand. Instead, stock healthy snacks that combine protein and carbohydrates. Dont Skip Breakfast "Breakfast wakes up the metabolism and provides energy to the brain and muscles for the day's activities," says King. "People who eat breakfast tend to eat less throughout the day." King recommends that breakfast be quick and combine carbohydrates and some protein to help keep students feeling full. Good options include whole-grain toast with peanut butter, a low-fat granola bar and fruit, or a whole-wheat tortilla with hummus and an apple. Cafeteria 101 The dining hall can be a friend or foe. There may be high-calorie foods and oversized portions, but most universities provide nutritious options too. Opt for foods that are baked, broiled, steamed, grilled or roasted, while steering clear of foods that are buttered, fried or swimming in cream sauce. When filling your plate at the cafeteria, consider following the US Department of Agricultures MyPlate guidelines. Alcohol "Alcohol is readily available and
How to extend the life of your car or SUV

ter prevents contaminants from circulating through the system and causing damage, opting for a premium oil filter will extend the life of your vehicle. For example, Royal Purple oil filters use micro-glass filter technology. Advanced micro-glass oil filters are designed to extend the life of vehicles and equipment. In addition to superior filtration media, the other internal and structural components are of higher quality materials, making for easier installation and removal as they are much less prone to crush while installing or removing. More information on motor oil and filters can be found at www.RoyalPurpleConsumer.com. Smoother Driving The way you drive can affect your vehicles performance and longevity. Take care to accelerate and decelerate smoothly. Not only will you increase your fuel economy, but youll extend the life of your brake pads. Avoid feel-good driving maneuvers like revving the engine and try not to drive on a nearly empty gas tank. Neither of these behaviors is good for your engine, and could result in costly repairs. By following a maintenance routine and practicing good driving habits, you can extend the life of your vehicle well after driving it off the lot.
our vehicle is one of your biggest investments, so taking care of your car or truck just makes good sense. While regular wear and tear cannot be avoided over time, there are some important steps you can take to keep your vehicle on the road longer: Wash Your Car Regularly washing your car may keep you riding in style, but a clean vehicle is not just for appearances. Keeping your car or truck clean and free of debris and detrimental road salt will prevent rusting and costly repairs down the line. Oil Changes and Filters To protect your engine, follow your manufacturers recommended oil change intervals. Instead of conventional oil, consider using high performance synthetic motor oil designed to reduce wear, heat and fuel consumption. Just like motor oil, not all oil filters are of the same quality -- filters can be classified as economy, better, and best. Since the oil fil-
Tips to avoid the 'Freshman 15'

rying to avoid the dreaded "Freshman 15" weight gain? While college is an adjustment, it doesn't have to mean an adjustment in your pants size. In fact, the Freshman 15 is a myth. Freshman students gain only 2.5 to 3.5 pounds on average during their first year in college, according to a recent study published in Social Science Quarterly. But be advised, the same study finds that college students do gain moderate but steady weight during and after college. So stay vigilant about diet and exercise. Be Prepared "Stress, anxiety and homesickness can all lead to overeating, warns registered dietitian nutritionist, Kristi King, spokesperson with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Before you snack, ask yourself
can pack on the pounds quickly if youre not careful," warns King. For students over 21, King recommends light beer and avoiding drinks mixed with regular soft drinks or sugary juices. When drinking, alternate a glass of water between alcoholic beverages. You'll consume less alcohol and fewer calories. Exercise Regular exercise pays dividends, helping control weight, improve ones mood and control stress. Many universities have excellent fitness centers available for students, but you don't have to become a gym rat to stay fit. Instead of taking the bus or driving to class, walk or ride your bike. Get Help If you'd like help creating a healthy meal plan, or want tips for controlling weight, check to see if your university offers nutrition counseling services. Registered dietitian nutritionists are food and nutrition experts, and they can help you ace your health goals. More tips to maintain a healthy weight your freshman year and beyond can be found at www.eatright.org.
LIFESTYLE
27
Indian culinary tours beckon foreign foodies

Kolkata: Want to combine wanderlust with a desire to sample authentic Indian dishes in traditional kitchens or scenic spots across the country? As a personal touch, you could also shop for the ingredients in some of the vibrant and bustling open-air marketplaces that India offers. All this and more could be yours for a price - thanks to the genre of culinary tourism. As gourmands from Britain, the US, Scandinavia, Europe and Africa troop into India to experience its food culture, tour groups and exclusive food travel consultants have come up with special packages to offer the best of the country's food regime. Whether it is the age-old Mughlai fare of old Delhi, rustic dishes of rural Rajasthan or the quintessential fishy affair in West Bengal, the Indian food-travel trail runs deep and promises to throw up surprises. Mexico resident and global traveler Katja Gaskell, co-founder of globetotting.com, an online travel portal that caters to families, has designed a nine-day tour of Rajasthan for families that includes "a jeep safari and picnic lunch in rural Rajasthan, a royal dinner in a magnificent fort setting and cooking lessons with a local family where you'll learn how to create your own Rajasthani meal." "This nine-day holiday explores the history and culture behind some of the region's most celebrated dishes and will teach visitors that there's more to Indian cuisine than simply chapatis and curries," says Gaskell. While a fitting rural setting is the draw for tourists from Britain, picking out fish and exotic produce like yam lures gastronomes to narrow their narrow alleys of southern Kolkata's Jadubabur Bazar or Lake market. Tailored for them is an offbeat walking tour offered by Calcutta Walks, a city-based walking tour company. In the "Bengali Cooking Lessons" tour, enthusiasts can learn the art of making Bengali staples like loochi (leavened round flour bread), chholar daal (Bengal gram curry), rice dishes, Bengali chicken curry or jhol (broth) and vegetarian items like baingun bhaja (eggplant fritters). But the real deals are the iconic fish recipes (hilsa, rohu and bhekti or Indian carp) with a hint of the trademark mustard. "We teach them to cook rohu/katla fish made with mustard or doi (rohu or Indian carp infused with the flavours of mustard and curd), shorshe baate diye maachh or doi maachh (mustard fish and curd-flavoured fish) and bhetki fillet. The lessons end with desserts like payesh or kheer, malpua and jaggery-based caramel custard," said Calcutta Walks founder Explorer Ifte. The advantage of a trip to the market is that it familiarizses one with the ingredients that go into these dishes. After the exercise, tourists can then get hands-on training in cooking from either a regular homemaker or owners of the city's acclaimed restaurants. For Prashant Kalra, founder and proprietor, Delhi Food Tours (DFT) are a way for non-resident Indians (NRIs) to get back to their roots. "We rarely have any Indian guests as our products are designed to introduce people to India. We have had a few NRIs who are coming home after a long time or bringing their children here for the first time," Kalra told adding that DFT has serviced guests from 35 coun-
tries since its inception in 2011. DFT's outings, dubbed "a food tour of India within the geographical confines of Delhi", takes one through six different restaurants with a signature tasting of teas from across India. One can savor cuisines from Goa, Lucknow, Chennai, Gujarat, Punjab and Delhi itself in a span of three to four hours in these restaurants. Besides, cooking classes for tandoori cuisine to biryani, pakoras, parathas, korma, daal and phirni and other basic items are held at the Kalra family's private farmhouse, a 20-minute from south Delhi. So strap on that backpack, roll up your sleeves and sharpen those kitchen knives for a session of Indian cooking!
28
HUMOR
Funny Bone by Nury Vittachi
Comparing newspaper news with internet news

his just in: Confucius is still dead. Wait, there's more: Mahatma Gandhi is still dead, too, and nothing has been heard from Ashoka for TWO MILLENNIA. That's my news report, inspired by a recent one which said astronaut Neil Armstrong had died. Thousands of people shared this report over the internet, despite the fact that Mr. Armstrong had died a year earlier. Why be greedy? One death should be enough for anyone, right? On the other hand, when I die, it would be quite nice if people share the news year after year until a news report eventually appears saying: "Irritating Columnist Continues To Irritate From The Grave: Mass Demo Set For Major Cities Worldwide." But of course the real message is that you can't trust the news on the Internet, which I know will come as an astonishing surprise to
everyone. Yet it IS scary when you think that the web is where most people get their news these days. As a scientific experiment, I decided to compare the top items of actual news in physical newspapers with the top news items on the internet on one particular day. At the international newspaper stand at the railway station I wrote down the front page stories: political upheavals, civil wars and of course the United States' Mass Shooting of the Week, a weird tradition they have there, guaranteed by their most important law, the Second Ablution to the Fourth Adjustment of the Fifth Abatement or some such thing. Back at the office, I looked up top items for Google News Trends for random places. US: Rejoicing as new violent computer game launched. Singapore: Rejoicing as new violent computer game launched. India:
Rejoicing as brown woman wins Miss America contest. Japan: Rejoicing as new ultra-cute computer game about cookies launched. When World War III is launched, no one's going to actually notice, as they will be reading about computer games and beauty queens. I can't decide whether this is good or bad. We'll soon find out, since the next war may have started. A Chinese newspaper recently announced that China's military had developed the capability to drop TV shows from fighter bombers. No, I don't mean they will throw actual TV presenters out of airplanes, although I suspect everyone on the planet would applaud that one, including Mother Teresa watching from her cloud. Instead, warplanes will take over all TVs and computers beneath their flight path and
beam their own programs into them in a "psychological warfare" technique to "give the enemy nervous breakdowns", the Global Times said. Having tried to watch Mainland China TV myself once, I can confirm that a dose of 90 seconds caused severe mental pain and after three minutes I felt so suicidal that I actually ate the Beijing hotel caf's Daily Special. Yet I'm not sure how hard it was for military scientists to develop this system, since it actually happens by itself. At a British funeral recently, the nephew of the dead man went to the pulpit to deliver a eulogy but the words that came from the sound system were: "Fasten your seatbelts." It probably came from a plane overhead, said the Daily Mail. Or perhaps Neil Armstrong's ghost, popping down to see why he's back in the news.
Laughter is the Best Medicine
by Mahendra Shah
Mahendra Shah is an architect by education, entrepreneur by profession, artist and humorist, cartoonist and writer by hobby. He has been recording the plight of the immigrant Indians for the past many years in his cartoons. Hailing from Gujarat, he lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
ASTROLOGY
29
By Dr Prem Kumar Sharma

Stars Foretell: September 28-October 4, 2013
ARIES: You are likely to establish yourself a good manager on managing people and situation without any problem. Family members will be very positive & supportive to your plans. A sudden inflow of funds will take care of your bills and immediate expenses. Use your discretion power in love. Cutting down the number of parties and pleasure jaunts would help in keeping in good mood. A group of friends or your partner is looking forward for a vacation with you. The best ideas for investment are to on invest on real estate business. You succeed in maintaining a distance from affairs not concerning you at all. TAURUS: You will be successful in realizing your targets at professional front. Be generous in your approach and enjoy lovely moments with family members. High time to get rid from the tendency to live for the week and wasting too much time and money on entertainment. Romantic vibrations from someone unknown would lift your spirits taking imaginations to scaling heights. A beneficial week to work on things that will improve your health. A leisure trip will prove to be a premium time for you. Are you longing to buy a farmhouse, try for it? Wit & repartee will immensely help in developing healthy relations with others. GEMINI: This week you are likely to be criticized for atrocious handwriting at professional front. Relatives will be willing to lend a helping hand at the time of need. Monetary position is likely to improve on recovering of delayed payments. Love life brings immense romantic pleasure. Your confidence and energy will be high in this week. You might get a chance for business trip, which will help you in new connections. If you want to invest on property, then go for residential one. You are likely to benefit provided pay heed to others guidance. CANCER: With your high confidence you will be able to cross all hurdles at professional front. New relationship at family front will be long lasting & highly beneficial. Investment in antiques & jewelry brings monetary gains and improvement in financial position. Traveling proves a blessing in disguise by bringing a love in your life. A week when smile will perpetually be on your face and strangers will seem familiar. Traveling overseas would be an experience full of spark that enlightens your imagination. Selling your home privately can be an excellent way of saving on costs. Personal interaction with others will be significant. LEO: Timely help of associates will not only pass difficult times at work but also help in regaining professional edge. Guests visit would make it a pleasant & wonderful week. Long pending arrears and dues will finally be recovered. You are likely to get a new friendship opportunity in the evening. Your energy level will be high. Better to channelize it in a positive direction. Travel plans for better communication will be helpful for new horizons. Off-plan property investment is one of the easiest and most profitable methods to maximize gains in the real estate market. Guidance would help youngsters to realize their dreams. VIRGO: A promising week to start a new venture in partnership. All are likely to be benefited. You will be in the mood to celebrate with family and friends. Investment concerning residence will be profitable. New romance that some of you are going to experience would take the worries off mind. Positive outlook impresses those around you besides keeping you fit & fine. Business or vacation traveling is what you needed right now. Your property prices will boost in the coming period. You are likely to realize the importance of reaching out to people. LIBRA: Your technical expertise gives a decisive edge over competitors at work. Good advice from family members brings gains. Financial hassles seem to get over as someone lends a timely helping hand. You enjoy a memorable time with partner to cement the lovely bond. Charity work undertaken will bring mental peace & comfort. Implementation of new ideas to travel will be beneficiary for you on work front. Buying property can lead to gains as property prices continue to increase. Temptation of any kind will not be able to allure you. SCORPIO: Hard work of the past brings rich dividends. However continue enhancing your skills/adopt techniques for further development. The company of family friends will keep you in a happy & relaxed mood. Promising week to invest surplus money in real estate. You will be attracted to someone special. Meditation and self-realization prove beneficial. Travel plans for ambitions are in full bloom. You could buy the property that you are looking for. You are likely to devote time to help others. SAGITTARIUS: Dedication & loyalty at work would bring desired results. Parental guidance in your decision would immensely help. Bank dealing needs to be handled very carefully. Warm romantic thoughts occupy mind. You will have ample time to do things to improve your health. A beckon destination sounds tempting to you. Investing on properties which are under developed will be profitable. Sense of humour will help in developing healthy relations with others. CAPRICORN : New ventures start on a positive note. A week when misunderstandings at family front are sorted out with ease. Dig deep beneath the surface to find out more about the investment scheme that seems to be attracting you. However consult experts before making any commitment. If possible, give the gift of time to beloved/lover. Sound physical health will enable to participate in outdoor activities. Traveling internationally means too much expense. Whether young or old, now is the time to start investing. Tough situations will be handled easily with friends help. AQUARIUS: You succeed in completing projects efficiently provided you put in all your efforts. If possible, join a get together with family/close friends to make it an excellent week. A sound financial health would enable to invest on lucrative schemes. Your charm & generosity bring new romantic opportunities for you. You will be successful in getting rid from tensions. Planning a trip for your love will embrace you and your spouse. Looking for good long term investments, then go for a property which is under construction. You are likely to spellbind others by wit & repartee. PISCES: Hard work put-in the past will yield handsome rewards in business during this week. Believe it or not someone in the family is watching you closely and considers you a role model. Your brilliant ideas would help in bringing financial gains. Love life brightens your week. A sparkling laughter filled week when most things proceed, as you desire. Enjoy your holiday with love of your life. Value the property at right price to attract buyers for it. You get a great respect in friends circle.
Chandigarh, India: +91-172- 256 2832, 257 2874 Delhi, India: +91-11- 2644 9898, 2648 9899 psharma@premastrologer.com; www.premastrologer.com
Annual Predictions: For those born in this week

28th September, 2013 Ruled planet:Sun Ruled by no: 1 Traits in you: Due to the positive effects of your ruling planet Sun, you will have the characteristics of a good human being. By nature, you are accountable, unique, courageous, committed, competitive, coordinated and intelligent. You should work on your negative personality traits such as selfishness, dependency and pessimism. Health this year: You will enjoy a good health throughout this year but provided you go for regular medical checkups and take proper medication prescribed by the doctor. Finance this year: Your financial conditions will be very good this year as you will be working hard to reach your goal. Your past property dispute will get solved and it will earn you a lot of money. If you are into business, you may go for new ventures as those seem to be very profitable this year. Career this year: You will enjoy a good professional atmosphere this year. You will be appreciated by your seniors and higher management. This may bring you promotions and salary hike. You need to concentrate more on your work to get a better position in your profession. You may go for a job change this year. However, you should not decide anything hastily. Romance this year: You will share a good relationship with your spouse. You may decide to turn your relationship into marriage if you are not married yet. However, you need to understand your beloved and provide the required emotional support for the betterment of your relationship. Lucky month: November, January, May and July 29th September, 2013 Ruled planet: 2 Ruled by no:Moon Traits in you: As you are under the influence of the Moon, you are generous, courteous, caring, cooperative, decisive, and determined. Being a very friendly person, you make friends easily and you believe in loyalty for friends. You should not behave stubborn and dishonest at times for the betterment of your personality. Health this year: You will enjoy a pretty good health this year though you may go through few minor diseases. Go for regular medical checkups to retain your good health. Take care of the health of your family members. Do not ignore any health related issue as it may lead to further disturbances. Finance this year: You will be fortunate enough this year to be among financial gains. All you need to do is to grab opportunities to earn money. You will find plenty of earning opportunities around you. However, you have to work hard to gain that money. Overall, this year will give you financial stability and security. Career this year: You will gain a lot of professional knowledge this year. You may think for a job change this year. You may not get the job satisfaction in the organization you currently work for. You may not get the expected appraisal, which would urge you to switch to another company. Romance this year: You may get some good news from your spouse or partner later this week. This will make your relationship grow stronger. You may have to travel to distant places to spend time youre your partner and maintain a good relationship. Lucky month: December, March and May 30th September, 2013 Ruled planet:Jupiter Ruled by no:3 Traits in you: As your governing planet is Jupiter, you are intelligent, dignified, dynamic, simple, ambitious, and optimistic. You are very whimsical towards your work. However, you need to eradicate few negative characteristics such as jealousy, rude, irresponsibility. Health this year: You may go through few minor health issues, which will create unwanted tensions for you throughout the year. To avoid falling sick frequently, you need to get your medical checkup done periodically. Finance this year: You will get financial benefits if you have invested in past. For future financial gains, you may invest on real estate and stock market. You should study the market well before investing on anything. Do not be in a hurry to invest as it may go in loss. Career this year: You will be successful in every project you take up this year. You may be adjudged the best employee by your higher management because of your efficiency, hard work, and timely delivery. You may need to negotiate with different types of customer and learn a lot about handling a project independently. Romance this year: As far as your relationships are concerned, you will enjoy a good time this year. You will find your spouse or partner supportive enough in your difficult time. You will be able to solve any problem that comes in your way to achieve something. If you are unmarried, there is a healthy chance for you getting married this year. Lucky month: November, April, May and September 1st October, 2013 Ruled planet: Sun Ruled by no: 1 Traits in you: Your ruling planet Sun showers energy on you. You are realistic, distinguished, and intelligent. You possess a high intelligence quotient as well. You are aware of handling any adverse situation with you calmness, composure and tactfulness. You need to deal with situation more efficiently this year. You have to work on your mood swings and restlessness. Health this year: You may perform some religious exercises at your home to attain peace, health, and wealth. Finance this year: This year your investments will give you high returns and your financial conditions will be improved drastically. This may make you spend more on buying luxury and comfort. Guests may keep visiting you throughout the year and they may bring you gifts and financial support Career this year: You need to improve your professional relationship with your colleagues and clients as it will help you grow as a professional. You should plan team outings and get-togethers to come closer to your co-workers. Romance this year: If you are in a romantic alliance, you will enjoy the relationship this year. You may get married this year. Lucky month: December, April, August and September 2nd October, 2013 Ruled planet: Moon Ruled by no: 2 Traits in you: The calmness of your ruling planet makes you a person with a composed nature. You epitomize simplicity, responsibility, trust, creativity, intelligence and talent. You believe in living each and every moment of your life. You want to enjoy life to the fullest and. You are capable enough to become a writer, thinker or a philosopher. However, you should not let your ego overpower your talent and ruin your beautiful personality. Health this year: If you feel mental disturbance, you may take help of a spiritual person to restore the peace. Finance this year: You will grow financially as the year progresses. You are expected to get enough returns from your investments. Career this year: You may face a lot of problems and challenges this year. However, your steady willpower and assistance from your close ones will make you come triumphant in each adverse situation. Romance this year: You will enjoy a great relationship with your partner even there will be problems between you. Lucky month: January, March, May and August 3rd October, 2013 Ruled planet: Jupiter Ruled by no :3 Traits in you: Your dominant planet Jupiter blesses you various noble characteristics to make you attractive, determined, dignified and helpful. You will have your own methodologies and principles to live your life. You are strong enough to take your own decisions and you will be admired for your ability to make quick decisions. You love independence as you want to live your life with your terms. However, you need to work on you nature of being rude, stubborn and hypocrite. Health this year: You may suffer from some minor health issues and that would not bother you very much. Finance this year: If you are planning to set up your new business abroad, you should go ahead as it will bring you lot of money, professional recognition, and prosperity. You will regain your confidence as the new sources of income will earn you lot of money. If you are planning to invest in real estate business, it will be proved to be a correct decision toward the end of the year. Career this year: If you are a working professional, you will be benefited from the professional changes that are supposed to happen in the middle of the year. Romance this year: You will enjoy a very supportive relationship with your partner or spouse. You may need to take extra responsibility of your family as your family member may behave more demanding. Lucky month: December, February, July and September 4th October, 2013 Ruled planet: Uranus Ruled by no: 4 Traits in you: Being ruled by Uranus, you have developed characteristics such as confidence, dignity, fun loving, disciplined and so on. This year is so lucky for you that you can turn mud into gold just be your mere touch provided you put your best effort in anything you do. You can behave a bit down to earth as it will suit and enhance your personality. You should stop your mood swings for better results in your life. Health this year: If you are a chronic patient, better you have your periodic medical check up to avoid future health issues. You have to take your preventive medicines regularly to stay healthy. Finance this year: If you have some properties, you will be in ample monetary gain. If you are into business, you may travel to distant places for business purpose to obtain better financial benefits. You may spend a huge amount of money in renovation of your existing house or construction of a new one. Career this year: You should not bother about your career this year as it is expected to blossom with lot of opportunities and success. As your performance will be good this year, you will be appreciated by your colleagues, clients, seniors and higher management. You may celebrate your success and growth throughout the year and reach a new height in your profession. Romance this year: You may plan to spend time with your partner to make him/her happy and develop a better understanding so you may travel to get pleasure and relax themselves from their busy lives. Lucky month: October, January, March and June
30
SPIRITUAL AWARENESS
Part two of the discourse 'God is around us, within us'
Stay in present, open soul to spiritual radiation

By Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj
nother example that illustrates how we block out the bliss around us is what happens when we use a cell phone or Blackberry wireless mobile device. We may be driving in a car, but during the time we are talking on the cell phone or Blackberry we can become so focused on listening to the chatter that we do not remember the sights as we drive past them along the way. It is amazing how the brain can multitask so that we can drive automatically while listening to conversations on a cell phone and not be consciously aware of what sights we passed along the way. We may be going to dinner with someone with whom we want to spend time but we get so wrapped up in answering emails or text messaging on our Blackberries that we are not even aware of what our loved one is saying, how the food is tasting, or the beauty of the restaurant dcor. We can become so focused on answering our emails, talking on a cell phone, or sending text messages that we miss out on the time we arranged to spend with our loved ones. This is what happens to us in satsang as well. The word satsang is made of two parts. Sat means Truth, and sang means communion with. Thus, the word satsang means communing with Truth. In this context, Truth refers to connecting our soul with God. One-third of the satsang is delivered by word of mouth so that while listening, our mind engages with listening to helpful factors that keep us focused on God. If we pay attention to the words, we are occupying our mind with helpful concepts to inspire us to stay focused on God. If our mind is listening to satsang, then we should not be complaining about others or thinking about what we want to receive. We should just be paying attention to the words of wisdom coming our way. The other two-thirds of the satsang are delivered by spiritual radiation sent to us to uplift our soul. Thus, while we receive onethird of the satsang through word of mouth, we receive two-thirds from spiritual radiation. This means that in the satsang, we are like the fish surrounded by water. If we want to be aware of the water we need to listen to the spiritual message to engage our mind and then open our soul to the spiritual radiation. That is all we need to be doing. It is like an effortless effort. But instead, we begin to clutch. We are not open to receive because we start thinking. What kind of thoughts are we getting in satsang? First, we start thinking about all the things we want in our lives. We start clutching for outer material things. If we could sit in the complaint department of God, just like the complaint department at the national or state park districts, we might find complaints such as: Why didnt I get that raise? Why didnt my children get good grades? or Why didnt my basketball team win? Second, we start thinking about what we are not getting spiritually. We may not ever meditate for a moment but we complain we are not seeing inner Light. We may start clutching for what we are not seeing or hearing inside in meditation rather than being happy with what we are getting within. We may start complaining about the people with whom we are doing volunteer work. We may start complaining about the environment around us. We can reflect upon the kind of things we think about when in satsang or in meditation to see the many ways we block our receptivity to the spiritual radiation coming our way. When we do introspection daily, there is a column on the diary for how much time we spent in meditation. But most of us enter the time that we sat on our meditation pillow or chair. How much of that time is spent actually silently gazing within while repeating simran or listening to the Sound Current, and how much of that time is spent clutching or thinking? We need to subtract from the time we record as sitting in meditation how much of that time we spend thinking for us to have a truly accurate picture of our real meditation time. Then, when we enter our inner experiences on the back of the diary where we check off what we see and hear inside we will find the answer to our question of why we may not be receiving much inner experience. If we are clutching, complaining, or thinking during meditation time, how can we see the Light or hear the Sound? We live in an age of interaction and workshops. In most schools and businesses, training consists of doing interactive activities. If we really wish to improve spiritually and gain more inner experience, then we should do a spiritual exercise. We should observe how much time we spend in satsang or meditation clutching or thinking of what we want instead of being mentally still and receiving what is being sent to us. We want water and are swimming in water but instead of experiencing water we are complaining that we are not in the water! We can begin to note how much time we spend complaining or clutching, and then as an exercise catch ourselves doing it and bring our attention back into satsang or in meditation, we are not imbibing the spiritual radiation because we are thinking of what happened to us in the past, or planning or worrying about what will happen in the future. The solution for thoughts of the past and future is to stay in the present or current moment. Every second we have an opportunity to be in the current moment. If, instead, we fill it with thoughts of the past or future, the current moment is wasted and is gone forDistractions from the mind include: trying to tell us we have more important things to do than to meditate, engaging us in anger, lust, greed, attachment, and ego through its need to fulfill desires, or making us dwell on the past or anticipate the future. Thoughts from the soul are those that lead us to God. They are thoughts that we should meditate, that we should lead an ethical life, that we should do selfless service, and that we should love God, the Master, our fellow human beings, and all creation. In meditation we should have no thoughts at all. That is why we are given simran. Instead of thinking, we should be repeating the Five Charged Words. In this way we do not allow thoughts to enter our system. Simran is the process by which we repeat the Five Charged Words while gazing into the middle of what lies in front of us. Simran protects us from thinking about the past or future. Simran keeps us in the current moment. Meditation requires continual stillness through the whole session. We cannot expect to sit still for one minute and then find God. We need to sit still for as long a time as is needed for us to get to the third or single eye. We need to silence our thoughts for a long enough time to witness the Light of God and hear the Music of the Spheres. There is an account from the Bible, in the Old Testament, about the Prophet Elijah. The Jews of Israel were being persecuted by a cruel king and his queen. The queen believed in a false idol and had four hundred fifty false prophets trying to make all the people convert to worship of the false idols. Whoever refused to worship God as a stone idol and continued their religious views of worshipping one God whose essence was spirit was killed. The situation was so terrible that God sent Prophet Elijah to confront the cruel king. A confrontation ensued between Elijah and the four hundred fifty false prophets of the idol. The result was that the idol was exposed as being a false god, and the four hundred fifty false prophets were killed. (To be continued..) Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj is an internationally recognized spiritual leader and Master of Jyoti Meditation who affirms the transcendent oneness at the heart of all religions and mystic traditions, emphasizing ethical living and meditation as building blocks for achieving inner and outer peace. www.sos.org.
Meditation requires continual stillness through the whole session. We cannot expect to sit still for one minute and then find God. We need to sit still for as long a time as is needed for us to get to the third or single eye. We need to silence our thoughts for a long enough time to witness the Light of God and hear the Music of the Spheres.
the receiving or receptive mode. We can stop the interference of our thoughts and instead pay attention to being open to meditating or listening to the satsang. Many people have pets. Those who have dogs are taught how to walk them without letting them run away. They gently pull the leash to keep the dog walking properly in time to their own pace. Similarly, the mind is like a dog. We have to keep it on a leash so it does not get out of control. When we notice it pulling us away from stillness, we have to rein it in. Avoid Thinking of the Past and Future during Meditation Another problem we have that keeps us from experiencing the love of God all around us is thinking of the past and future. While in ever. We can never get the present moment back. If we can stay in the current moment, then thoughts of the past and future will stop. We will be able to be at the still center in which we can connect with the Light and Sound within. We can immerse ourselves in God in the current moment. There are two switches for our attention: one is the switch to be attuned to our soul and the other is to be attuned to our mind. The solution for the thoughts that the mind sends us is to be able to separate what thoughts are of God and the soul, and what thoughts are of the mind. We need to learn to be vigilant when the mind is pulling a trick to distract our attention either in meditation or throughout our day.

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