Escolar Documentos
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At a glance
Concern for Srikanth
It’s a fortnight since AUT student Sri-
kanth Rayadurgam went missing under
mysterious circumstances. Despite a
community wide awareness campaign
and searches, the investigators have
drawn a blank so far. Page 2
Next month the new Real Estate Agents Act 2008 comes in to force. Is the industry ready?
The wildly selfregulating real estate industry will do under current law.
be governed by an independent body next month “The biggest drawback to the Act is that property
when the Real Estate Agents Act 2008 comes in to management is not covered by the Act, or a separate
force. Act,” said Barfoot and Thompson managing direc
The main difference between this updated Act tor Peter Thompson. “There is no requirement for
and the previous legislation is that it removes the property management accounts to be audited regu
regulatory functions from the Real Estate Institute larly, even though large sums of money belonging to
of New Zealand, creates an independent Real Estate '"%(%'4$(%,$*(%,*&#,4$6&!$'.#&70.$'."91A
Agents Authority body to govern the industry, E$ #"B/"!$ ,""9",$ /'$ 7%F74'/+",$ '&$ 27'$ /%$ 2*(3"$
creates an independent Disciplinary Tribunal with additional regulation for property managers, who
the power to cancel licenses and deal with serious are employed by 30% of all property owners. This
3(4"4?$ (%,$ #"C7/#"4$ /%3#"(4",$ C7(*/+3('/&%4$ (%,$ leaves property owners with the Disputes Tribunal
ongoing training requirements for real estate agents. as an avenues for resolving issues, but that only deals The Real Estate Institute of New Zealand is act would bring a lot of work for his team:
D./*"$%"!4$&5$&5+3/(*$/%,74'#-$!('3.,&04$)"/%0$ with amounts above $15,000. expecting “teething problems” in “We are going to have to organise changing
appointed may have some shady real estate agents Property managers could be regulated from the wake of the awaited industry shakeup and restructuring the institute… [But] we
shaking in their boots, most in the industry have other sources though. “In our view, it is apparent that come November 11, president Peter will be able to remodel ourselves and just
74",$ '."$ 2(4'$ -"(#$ 4/%3"$ /'$ !(4$ 3&%+#9",$ '."$ E3'$ Property Managers will be alternatively caught by McDonald says. become a really good membership service.”
would be made law to prepare for the changes and the provisions of the Financial Service Providers Act
are ready for a more heavily regulated industry. 2008,” Mr Campbell said. The full force of the revamped Real Estate “There are always teething problems during
Property Council president Connal Townsend 8."$ (,,/'/&%(*$ '#(/%/%0$ (%,$ C7(*/+3('/&%4$ #" Agents Act will come into effect on that times of change – for us it is more about how
said that the new legislation leaves the Real Estate quired to prepare new real estate agents for entry to date, stripping the institute of its regulatory the institute can work alongside its members,
Institute of New Zealand free to focus on profession '."$+"*,$3&7*,$2#&B"$&55G27''/%0$'&$4&9"?$#"(*$"4'('"$ powers and tightening up rules governing helping them to be ready to comply with the
al development and training. “What it does is cement agency Bayleys fears. how the real estate world operates. new legislation and its associated rules and
the split between REINZ, devolving disciplinary “On the surface, this may appear to be a desired regulations when they fully take effect.”
action to the Crown,” Mr Townsend said. outcome, by raising the bar. However, successful Replacing the institute in its regulatory and
Transparency is also injected in to the real estate sales consultants who serve their customers ex disciplinary role will be the Real Estate Mr McDonald said he was happy with the
industry with a public register of all real estate tremely well come from a variety of professional, Agents Authority, the website of which is people on the authority’s board.
agents being compiled, which will record names of ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, and the still under construction. “[It] is generally The board will be chaired by Kristy McDon
industrystandard breaches. “The public will be con challenge will be to balance the requirement to raise accepted by the industry as necessary and a ald QC. Janet Mezenier was announced as
+,"%'$'.('$/'$/4$,"(*/%0$!/'.$'#74'",$2#&5"44/&%(*4$(%,$ professional standards against limiting the availabil good thing,” Mr McDonald said. “We know the authority’s chief executive in September.
the new Act reinforces this,” said Property Institute ity of new personnel into the industry,” said Bayleys most members of the public look forward to
of New Zealand president Ian Campbell. managing director Mike Bayley. this aspect – as do most real estate agents.” Laura Caygill in the
One aspect of the industry which the new Act The new Act comes in to force on 17 November. National Business Review
overlooks is the regulation of property managers, He admitted the changes brought in by the
who look after 6075,000 properties in New Zealand Courtesy: The National Business Review
and will continue to be able to operate freely as they
Diwali
Special
Term
Deposit.
5 .00
TERM DEPOSIT SPECIAL
%
p.a.
FOR 5 MONTHS
MINIMUM DEPOSIT $10,000
INTEREST PAID ON MATURITY
,+--('.//-+0+1"
Ask ASB for an Investment Statement. Rate subject to change. Max investment $250,000. Available for a limited period.
ASB Term Deposit: ASB’s Personal Banking Terms & Conditions apply.
ASB Term Fund: Issued by ASB Group Investments Ltd. Rate of return is before tax and any fees. While investments are not deposits with ASB, they are invested in deposits with ASB Bank.
ASB guarantees account balances and returns at the agreed rate (before tax and any fees). The guarantee is unsecured.
Media workers to have a new Wages Council To celebrate the opening of your new local Fexco
!"#$%#&'(")#*&"+&,-./&012$)$1)&345&6+&3178$995&we’re
Suva: A new Wages Council will be established “As a result, the industry has been thriving
giving away a :,./&7*1;;$)<&=1>#*?(&?=?(@&A??8
to regulate the terms and conditions of employ for a very long time while reporters and journal between 31 August and 30 November 2009. Send a
ment for media and communications industry ists are forced to be content with meagre wages, Western Union® Money Transfer and complete this entry
workers in Fiji. said Minister Bole. form to enter the draw. Terms and conditions apply. See
The decision was endorsed by cabinet last Fiji Media Council Secretary, Bob Pratt told
week. PACNEWS the Council was aware of govern !"#$%&'()%&(*'$+!,#-(%&(.!#!$(///0)'12%3+2!4202%0"50
Fiji’s Labour Minister, Filipe Bole in his sub ment’s move to establish the new Wages Council
mission to cabinet said nationwide survey found for media workers. name:
that while majority of the workers are engaged “It remains to be seen what and how the
&%$ ($ +B"$ '&$ 4/IG,(-4$ !&#<$ 2"#$ !""<$ (%,$ (337 Council will regulate the terms and conditions email:
mulate between 40 to 45 normal working hours, of media and communications workers, said Mr mobile:
media workers normally work for longer hours Pratt.
.',$/0
and do not receive fair wages compensation.
“This situation is further aggravated by the
Fiji has a thriving media industry cover
ing print, broadcast, television and online news 0800 270 000 $%&1),2$0
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fact that most of these workers in the media/ media. Pacific !!!"#$%&'()&*+&"&'",- here!
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protect them from working under duress.
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Invercargill
It can either ingeniously conceal the extra flab, or it can accentuate the curves of the female form – the humble sari
has remained a traditional icon of Indian femininity. But, is the world mourning the dying art of the sari?
Yes, says a recent report in Time magazine. poll conducted by Indian Weekender in New Fiji) to parties (did not in Fiji) and weddings as Kumar said he had also noticed more Eu
No, say modern Indian women and sari re Zealand, 45 per cent of respondents said they well as receptions, funerals. ropean women buying saris as they were now
tailers in Auckland. believed the sari was not out of favour as far as “Here in Canada, women make the most of more involved with Bollywood themed func
Five years ago, there were 22 weaver soci the modern Indian woman was concerned. saris and wear it whenever they can including tions.
eties in Kanjivaram, but only 13 are left today, Thirty seven per cent said the modern Indian the younger generation (teenagers). My daugh “The colours are very appealing to them.”
says a report in Business Today. woman did not want to wear the sari while 16 ter has preferred the sari as her mode of dress to Kumar said while the Kanjivaram silk was
U5$'."4"$S`?$&%*-$+B"$4(-$'."-$(#"$,&/%0$!"**1$ per cent were not sure. all Indian functions ever since she was 16 with the top of the range, Banarasi, Madhurai, Ban
Last year, the 13 weavers sold about $12 million Former Fiji radio journalist Rohini Murti no pressure whatsoever from us.” galore crepe, and Mysore silk were as presti
worth of saris, down from $40 million in 2004. says she now wears the sari more than she ever What do you think of the sari as a traditional gious.
The bestknown sari shops, like Nalli, which did in Fiji. garment for the Indian woman? Jagdish Makanji of Makanjee’s Ltd in Stod
has gleaming showrooms in several big Indian Asked if the sari was now out of favour for “I think it is one of the most becoming gar dard Rd, Mt Roskill, said the Indian TV serials
cities, have contracts with some Kanjivaram the modern Indian woman, she said: “Absolute ments the Indian woman can wear. The sari has had made saris even more popular.
weaver coops, which is helping them hang on. ly not if anything the modern woman has made been adapted by women of all races and it is not “Programmes such as those on Star Plus
In and around Kanchipuram, famous for the the sari one of the sexiest evening wear. uncommon to see women of other races wear have a huge effect on the trends,” said Makanji.
Kanjivaram silk saris that hail from this region, “A sari can be adapted so that it can be worn saris complete with bangles, bindi, etc to Indian A lot of the serials were sponsored by big sari
the manpower in the weaving industry has gone to the most conservative and most modern of weddings. It is no longer seen as old fashioned.” retailers in India, he said.
down drastically, from 60,000 10 years ago to functions temple, to work, out to parties, wed What do you usually wear at work, or as Makanji said he had also noticed Muslim
about 20,000 today, says the Time report. dings. casual outing? women were now wearing the sari than their
The concept of beauty in ancient India was But, is the world mourning the dying art of “Given the type of work I do, our workplace normal salwar kameez.
that of small waist and large bust and hips, as is the sari? allows Western, casual clothing and of course A spokesman for Ramsons, also on Stoddard
evident in the sculptures Yes, says a recent report in Time magazine. I wear the regular Western clothing as casual L,?$(*4&$4(/,$'."$8]$4&(24$.(,$($.70"$/%67"%3"$
of those times. No, say modern Indian women and sari re clothing. in driving sales.
And the sari tailers in Auckland. “However, whenever the opportunity arises, He also pointed out that more Muslim
seemed to be Five years ago, there were 22 weaver soci I wear a sari to work (Diwali, lunchtime temple women were now into saris – another factor in
the perfect eties in Kanjivaram, but only 13 are left today, functions). the increase in sales.
dress to says a report in Business Today. =8."$+#4'$'/9"$>$!&#"$($4(#/$'&$!&#<?$'."$3(7 Some costume historians believe that the
6(7%'$ '.&4"$ U5$'."4"$S`?$&%*-$+B"$4(-$'."-$(#"$,&/%0$!"**1$ casion men loved it and said it was one of the men’s dhoti, which is the oldest Indian draped
propor tions Last year, the 13 weavers sold about $12 million most elegant pieces of clothing they had seen garment, is the forerunner of the sari. Till the
as it exposes worth of saris, down from $40 million in 2004. and considered it very feminine. I was asked 14th century the dhoti was worn by both men
the waist of The bestknown sari shops, like Nalli, which to seriously consider wearing it to work all the and women. Thereafter, it is conjectured that
a woman and has gleaming showrooms in several big Indian time but for practical reason I cannot (the pallu the women’s dhoti started to become longer, and
e m p h a s i s e s cities, have contracts with some Kanjivaram can catch on machinery).” the accessory cloth worn over the shoulders was
the waist and weaver coops, which is helping them hang on. Auckland research scientist Rita Krish woven together with the dhoti into a single cloth
bust with In and around Kanchipuram, famous for the
the pleated Kanjivaram silk saris that hail from this region,
fabric.
In a
the manpower in the weaving industry has gone
down drastically, from 60,000 10
A sari can be adapted so that it can be worn to the most
r e c e n t years ago to about 20,000 today,
says the Time report. conservative and most modern of functions - temple, to work,
The concept of beauty in
ancient India was that of small out to parties, weddings.
waist and large bust and hips,
as is evident in the sculptures of
those times. And the sari seemed namurthi, prefers saris on special occasions. to make the sari.
'&$)"$'."$2"#5"3'$,#"44$'&$6(7%'$'.&4"$ Rita, who also moonlights as a singer at se Indian civilization has always placed a tre
proportions as it exposes the waist of lected shows, says she believes the much loved mendous importance on unstitched fabrics
a woman and emphasises the waist garment is back in fashion. She says the sari is like the sari and dhoti, which are given sacred
and bust with the pleated fabric. inconvenient for the workplace in western coun overtones. The belief was that such a fabric was
In a recent poll conducted by tries and reserves it for special occasions only, pure; perhaps because in the distant past needles
Indian Weekender in New Zealand, eg. Diwali, temple functions, weddings, etc. of bone were used for stitching. Hence even to
45 per cent of respondents said Accountant Maureen Saddiq says the sari is the present day, while attending poojas or other
they believed the sari was not out =,"+%/'"*-$%&'A$&7'$&5$5(4./&%1 sacred ceremonies, the women wear the sari.
of favour as far as the modern How often she wears the sari “depends on KB"%$'&,(-?$!."%$'."$>4*(9$/%67"%3",$J(*
Indian woman was concerned. how may how many Indian functions I go to warkameez (loose trousers with a tunic) is an
Thirty seven per cent said the probably not as many as I used to go to in Fiji, increasingly popular garment, the sari contin
modern Indian woman did not )7'$,"+%/'"*-$!"(#$4(#/$'&$"B"#-$>%,/(%$57%3'/&%$ 7"4$'&$.&*,$/'4$4!(-1$8."$6&!$/'$3&%5"#4$'&$'."$
want to wear the sari while 16 I go to. natural contours of the female form enhances
per cent were not sure. “I think it is the just the best thing, I am not the gracefulness of the fairer sex, as no other
Former Fiji radio journal a fan of the ghagaras, etc and feel the sari repre apparel can.
ist Rohini Murti says she now sents us Indians.” One of the earliest depictions of a sarilike
wears the sari more than she Her casual attire in Brisbane, Australia, is drape covering the entire body dates back to
ever did in Fiji. mostly jeans and pants. 100 B.C. A NorthIndian Terracotts depicts a
Asked if the sari was In response to whether it is out of fashion, woman wearing a Sari wound tightly around her
now out of favour for the Radhika Reddy says: “Not at all. In fact the entire body in the trouser style.
modern Indian woman, modern Indian woman favours it quite a bit. Tailored clothes arrived in India with the
she said: “Absolutely not Radhika wears saris more than she used to arrival of Muslims. Hindus believed that any
if anything the modern in Fiji. “I believe that it is very traditional event cloth pierced by needles was impure.
woman has made the though many of us have given a western twist It is commonly believed in India that today’s
sari one of the sexiest to it. petticoat or “ghagra” and the blouse or “choli”
evening wear. What do you usually wear at work, or as which are worn under the sari are later addi
“A sari can be casual outing? Well, on behalf of many of us tions which started with the coming of British in
adapted so that it can Indo Canadian women, if given the chance, India. Increasing number of upper class women
be worn to the most we’d love to wear a sari to work but due to the in the early 20th century did adopt items of Eu
conservative and most nature and environment at our work, we tend to #&2"(%$ 4'-*"$ 3*&'./%0$ (4$ '."$ +''",$ )*&74"$ (%,$
modern of functions wear western clothes, such as dresses, skirts, slim petticoat.
temple, to work, out to blouses and pants. This was also adopted due to the fashion of
parties, weddings. Mahesh Kumar, director of Roop Darshan transparent chiffon Saris during that particu
How often do you sari shop in White Swan Rd, Auckland, says he lar period. Some of the wives of Indian kings
now wear sari com has noted a gradual increase in sari sales since draped themselves in Saris that were made by
pared with when you his business started in Auckland 15 years ago. Parisian designers.
were in Fiji? “More women are wearing sari these days,” Whatever the case may be, the sari seems
“Much more. Kumar told the Indian Weekender. “Women are to be holding its own in the world of Indian
I wear the sari to now more aware of trends in Bollywood and fashion, and will continue to reign for a long
temples (did not in that brings them out to buy what’s in fashion.” time.
Diwali Messages
Greetings, Kia Ora, Kia Orana, Fakalofa Lahi Atu, 1/;."%/0('."/4)'.;,"/-"58."*.&5$
Taloha Ni—to which can be added Namaste, Na We are ensuring you have better access to health
mashkar, Sat Sri Akal, Kam Cho. care, which is why we’re putting more funding into
Letters
Diwali is one of the most important and ancient of frontline health services. Shortly we will begin build
2-3(&-"4.,5(6&0,$"""78.",(9-()'&-'."/4"58.":.,5(6&0"/4" ing new electivesurgery super centres to reduce
Lights sits on many levels. First, it is a special time hospital waiting lists. And we are signing up the
4/;"2-3(&-"4&1(0(.,"5/"9&58.;"&-3"'.0.*;&5.<";.=.'5(-9" );,5"9;&3+&5."8.&058"%;/4.,,(/-&0,"5/"/+;"6/0+-5&;>"
on the year that has past and looking forward with bonding scheme to get more doctors, nurses, and
hope to the year ahead. midwives working in hardtostaff areas. Methodist church in Fiji
Secondly, Diwali is an especially important time The Nationalled Government is also working to
for people of Indian origin and Indian communities attract the right business migrants to New Zealand
throughout the world. In New Zealand, the festival and create more jobs for Kiwis. Western colonisation always was accompanied by the spread of Christianity. In
not only symbolises the best traditions of Indian Recently we introduced our revamped business fact proselytism is an inherent part of Christianity. Where the English went they
'+05+;.<"*+5"(,"&0,/"&"5(1.0>";.1(-3.;"/4"58.",(9-() migrant package which aims to boost our economic
preached their faith, whereas others mostly preached the Catholic faith.
cant contribution made by the more than 100,000 performance by making New Zealand more attrac
people of Indian origin to our nation’s society, tive for business and entrepreneurial migrants. Similar conversion also happened in New Zealand; the French preached the Catho
culture and economy. For investor migrants the previously existing three lic faith and the Methodist their version. Blaming Butadroka is unfair; he was just a
Finally, the importance of Diwali now extends categories are streamlined to two, with more realis
beyond India and the Indian Diaspora. Symbolised tic requirements for capital, language skills and time politician using race and religion to his advantage. We have Winston here!
by the lighting of lamps, Diwali sends a powerful spent in New Zealand annually.
message of peace and unity that has been embraced We’ve also introduced the new Entrepreneur Plus
by people of different cultures and creeds throughout category which complements the existing Entrepre Gul Zaman
the world. In these troubling economic times, Diwali neur category. It will offer a faster path to residence
reminds us that just as lamps can bring light to the for applicants who create at least 3 fulltime jobs and
dark, that a new day always follows even the most invest $500,000 in their business.
darkest of nights. I’m proud to be a part of a Nationalled Government Very well articulated. You are right about the Indian Christians criticising Hindu
As GovernorGeneral of New Zealand, it is with that’s working to secure a brighter future for all New
ism. It’s the same everywhere. Instead of merely praising their socalled Christian
great pleasure that I send my best regards to every Zealanders. I wish everyone a very happy Diwali and
one attending Diwali celebrations this year. Dhan a Prosperous New Year. values, these Indian evangelists also condemn Hindu gods and religious texts. It
badd. only shows their frustration at not having been able to convert Indians despite
?/";.(;&<"5@-A"B/+5/+<"5@-A"B/+5/+<"B(&"/;&<"B(&"B&8&<" Mr Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi
5@-A"B/+5/+"B&5/&$ National List MP trying for over 2000 years. Hindus should not tolerate such nonsense any more.
Hon Sir Anand Satyanand, GNZM, QSO
GovernorGeneral of New Zealand On the auspicious occasion of the forthcoming Sanjay Grover
Diwali (Deepawali) on 17 October, I wish to extend
my congratulations and best wishes to all our Hindu
It’s with great pleasure to offer Happy Diwali wishes and Sikh communities in New Zealand.
to the broader Indian Community on behalf of the Diwali is the most important festival of the year for Scientific dating of the Ramayana
National Party. The festival of lights touches both the Indian people around the world.
religious and community lives of so many in Auck The word Diwali which is derived from the Sanskrit
land and elsewhere. This high spirited celebration word meaning ‘an array of lamps’ marks the begin It’s only the government and the leftists who label Rama as a mythological char
of the homecoming in the Ramayana. Thank you for ning of the Hindu New Year and is seen as a brand acter. For ordinary Hindus, he’s a hero. Why is it so hard for them to accept it.
wanting to share this important tradition of India new beginning for all.
with the rest of New Zealand. Light, in the form of candles and lamps, is a crucial Mainly because as you say, lots of people will lose their jobs and the research will
part of Diwali. It represents the triumph of light over be f lushed down the drain. Surely, some day it will be taught as history after fixing
Alastair Bell darkness, good over evil and hope for the future.
Regional Chair A lamp or ‘diya’ is also the symbol of knowledge. the date once and for all. For that there should be standardisation of the way we
NZ National Party Lighting the lamp of knowledge is used as a metaphor interpret Sanskrit texts. The govt won’t do it so will please business houses come
for better understanding among communities.
I wish everyone a very Happy Diwali. Diwali has
forward. Every religion and every religious book has some obscurantist dogma. But
become a national event in New Zealand. Various Once again, please accept my best wishes on this oc Indians are reforming Hinduism. Educated Hindus don’t accept many things written
cities thought New Zealand and thousands of people casion. in ancient texts, but we are proud of Hinduism because we know about its tolerant
will gather to participate in the festivities, promoting
the concept of oneness and unity. history. As for which version we will accept – it is obviously the original. Valmiki’s
I have truly enjoyed being an Ethnic MP. It has Dr Ashraf Choudhary QSO Ramayan is pure history. Tulsidas, Aparichit, Adhyatmik, Krittivasi, Awadhi, etc
enabled me to help the Indian community in various Member of Parliament
ways and I am humbled to be able to share this occa have local interpolations.
sion with all of you. At Diwali, I am reminded of the
ceremonies held in India. Including visiting relatives On behalf of New Zealand Indian Central Associa
distributing sweets. tion, we wish to acknowledge and thank the Sneha Joshi
New Zealand is a diverse nation. The Nationalled unceasing efforts of Indian Weekender in bringing
government has strong links with the Indian Commu forth the news and views of Kiwis (Kiwi
nity and I’m working hard to ensure that your views Indians in particular) with professionalism and
are heard. unbiased editorials. Bank of Baroda
The Nationalled Government under the leadership
of Hon John Key is dedicated to making New Zealand May the blessings of Goddess Laxmi deity of love,
a better and safer place for you and your families to wealth and fortune bestow whole ‘Indian Weekend BoB has come here to offer a service to Indians, which has so far been missing from
live in. er’ team with opulence and prosperity! NZ. The service won’t be as sugary sweet as in NZ because NZ’s a very small market
We have listened to your concerns about law and
order and are taking a number of steps to ensure that Ratilal Champaneri (President) and so you have to be nice to customers. In Australia it’s not as good. In India,
our communities are safer, including putting 600 Veer Khar (Gen Sec) despite the huge volume of customers, the service is laudable.
Tipped as the energy secretary in Barack Obama’s Cabinet, Sonal Shah was about to become the crown jewel of the
Indian diaspora. But a vicious smear campaign, a 21st century version of McCarthyism, by desi fringe academics and
bigots stalled a stellar career.
Call it 21st century McCarthyism. An eminent an Indian website in the US, adding that funds was not aware of the Hindu supremacist and open minded and inclusive souls, and one of
economist who previously worked for the US raised by the VHP of America were used se violent ideology of the Hindutva movement”. the most talented that my beloved India, my
Treasury Department and Goldman Sachs, lectively to aid only Hindus and not Muslims. He added Shah should resign to avoid “distrac adopted homeland, has produced.”
Sonal Shah was appointed to US President The controversy escalated after former tion to the Presidentelect”, and that Obama But the damage has already been done.
elect Barack Obama’s transition team in No US Republican senator Rick Santorum, wrote should be careful when appointing her suc Days after the inf luential National Journal re
vember 2008 and later named to be part of a an oped piece for the Philadelphia Inquirer cessor, as the “Hindutva movement has been vealed that Shah was the frontrunner for the
threeperson team to write America’s technol on December 4, concluding that Shah was a trying to infiltrate the US power centres”. post of Energy Secretary, the job was given to
ogy policy. But just as her career gained mo bad choice. Citing the alleged VHP violence However, many prominent people rallied Steven Chu, an ethnic Chinese. As the fringe
mentum she was reportedly in the running against Christians in Orissa, Santorum said around Shah. The USIndia Political Action academics and the commentariat piled on the
for the post of Energy Secretary several the organisation supported terrorism aimed Committee (USINPAC), a bipartisan organi invective, the biggest loser was India.
IndianAmerican groups launched a protest at at Muslims and Christians. He urged Shah sation of Indian Americans, noted in a letter Rakesh Krishnan is a features writer
her appointment, claiming she is closely asso to condemn the VHP and its actions. “If she to Obama, “A highly accomplished member at Fairfax New Zealand. He has previously
ciated with the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) doesn’t, keeping her on or more ominously, of your team, Sonal Shah, has been targeted worked with Businessworld, India Today and
and warned against Hindutva infiltration into giving her a post in the new administration in a smear campaign in which she is falsely Hindustan Times, and was news editor with
US power centres. would send the message that the president accused of supporting groups that condone the Financial Express.
The smear campaign was multipronged. elect does not think the VHP is a radical or violence against Christians and Muslims.”
First, the Indian Coalition Against Genocide, ganisation,” wrote Santorum. Eboo Patel, founder and executive direc
the Indian American Coalition for Plural Shah, who was named India Abroad maga tor of the Interfaith Youth Core, a Chicago OBAMA’S INDIANS
ism and NonResident Indians for a Secular zine’s Person of the Year in 2003 for founding based international nonprofit that promotes E9"#/3(T4$+#4'$)*(3<$@#"4/,"%'G"*"3'$.(4$
and Harmonious India, in a joint statement, Indicorps, a developmental organisation, was interfaith cooperation, expressed dismay at /%,73'",$(4$9(%-$(4$+B"$>%,/(%4$/%$./4$/%
sought Shah’s clarification over her associa cornered into submitting a denial that she was the attacks on a fellow Gujarati. A Muslim 67"%'/(*$ '#(%4/'/&%$ '"(9?$ ."#(*,/%0$ ($ %"!$
tion with the VHP. Then the Indian Christian actively engaged with the VHP. “My person himself, he wrote in his blog: “The evidence era in IndiaUS relations. They offer ex
Forum, an umbrella organisation for Indian al politics have nothing in common with the linking Sonal to Hindu extremism is laugh 2"#'/4"$ (%,$ /%67"%3"$ 2&*/3-$ /%$ '."$ U)(9($
American Christians, expressed “grave views espoused by the VHP, the RSS, or any ably thin. It amounts to Sonal passing a Hindu White House.
concern” over her appointment. “Shah’s back such organisation. I’ve never been involved in nationalist on the street and not performing a
ground creates tremendous uneasiness among Indian politics, and never intend to do so,” she citizen’s arrest...I hope the hatchet job doesn’t 1. Sonal Shah (Technology)
freedom loving people in our community that said. “I’ve always condemned any politics of work on Sonal. Her talents have benefited 2. Parag Mehta (Intergovernment affairs)
overwhelmingly voted for Obama,” said the division, of ethnic or religious hatred, of vio many many people.” 3. Preeta Bansal (Personnel operations)
Indian Christian Forum. lence and intimidation as a political tool.” The Perhaps Larry Brilliant, who hired Sonal 4. Anjan Mukherjee (International trade)
Several other figures from socalled pro 40yearold said she was proud to have helped to work at Google.org, sums it up best: “As 5. Nick Rathod (Intergovernment affairs)
gressive outfits jumped into the fray. One of the earthquake victims of Gujarat, through many wonderful people that the good Lord
them was Vijay Parshad, director of Interna NGOs working there. has allowed me to meet and work with, there
tional Studies at Trinity College, Connecticut. But apparently the judgement had already is no finer person I have met than Sonal Shah. “Sonal has not a bone, not a
According to him, Shah was affiliated with been decided. Shaik Ubaid, founder of the Co I’ve read the comments about her—alleg
“the most virulently fascistic organisation alition Against Genocide, said he was “sad ing communal hatred—and they are beyond muscle, not a cell, not a strand
within India”. “At the age of 33, she chose to dened and disappointed by Ms Sonal Shah’s absurd. Sonal has not a bone, not a muscle, not
raise money for a group associated with anti statement. It is disingenuous that she who a cell, not a strand of DNA with bigotry. She of DNA with bigotry.”
Muslim violence several times,” Parshad told was raised in a Hindutva family says that she is one of the best, the brightest, the kindest,
— Larry Brilliant, Google.org
very important member of all live shows of play
back singers and celebrities.
He is a rhythm artist who can play the Rhythm
Machine, Tumba, Dholak/Dholki, Tabla, Djembe
and the pads simultaneously during a live show.
An artist, most respected, talked about and con
stantly in demand for every musical event.
He also has his own musical group wherein
he has been doing a lot of corporate shows, multi
star events in Pune and Mumbai. He has his own
recording studio wherein a lot of the new and
latest musical ideas are born and recorded by him.
>%$ 4.&#'?$ ($ B"#4('/*"?$ '"3.$ 4(B-?$ 2#&+3/"%'$ #.-'.9$
artist, par excellence, he has no equals in his trade
at the moment.
Mandar Deo has been playing the keyboard for
the past 15 years and has accompanied almost all
the singers/celebrities of today and yesteryears.
He is most adept in playing anything on the spot
without needing any rehearsals.
Today, he is one of the leading keyboard players
who also does arranging, programming and com
posing. He has composed and arranged albums
for Vaishali Samant, Avdhoot Gupte, Shibani
Kashyap and is an intergral and important part of
their live shows.
Both Ajay and Mandar have also performed
with stars like Vaishali Samant, Avdhoot Gupte,
Swapnil Bandodkar, Abhijit Sawant, Shaan, Sonu
Nigam, Amit Kumar, Sachin, the late O.P. Nayyar,
Sudesh Bhosale, Kavita Krishnamurthy, Suresh
Wadkar, Sadhana Sargam and Johnny Lever.
Show organizer Ram Iyer, of the Cultural
+"*,$&5$974/3$(%,$($!"**$<%&!%$#.-'.9$2*(-"#$!.&$ Forum of India, put together the show to mark its
can play any kind of rhythm instrument ever made. ZO'.$"B"%'$/%$'."$+B"$-"(#4$4/%3"$/'$3(9"$/%'&$"I
He is also known as the Master of the R70 istence.
Rhythm Machine, there is no one at present that Ram thanked the performers for the evening
has a mastery over this machine as he does. A !.&$.(,$4'"22",$72$'&$'."$&33(4/&%$'&$+**$/%$5&#$'."$
very humble and sincere person by nature, he can missing Sumitra, especially Manju and lead gui
compose and arrange very intricate rhythm parts tarist Vijay Murthy.
for any kind of music as required. He has been a Arvind Kumar
2
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1, 2, 3 & 4: Mt Al
bert Labour MP
David Shearer an
d Te At atu MP
Chris Car ter gi ving
away the Indian
Weekender best
dres sed child
prizes at the Nav
ratri celebrations
at the Mahatma G
andhi Centre; the
winners with the di
gnitaries
5: Prashant Tijore of
Music 4 Dreamz
presents the prize
to the holder of
6 the luck y winning
tic ket at the Fa zal
Q ureshi concer t.
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Aaron
Kashyap
BA, LLB
Barrister and solicitor
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10 9: Navratri dancers
in their colour ful be
Gandhi centre. st at the Mahatma
ORIGIN OF DEEPAVALI
Deepavali; “Array of Lights,” symbolizes the victory of Deepavali has to be observed as a day for
brightness over darkness; its most significant esoteric getting rid of all the bad qualities in us. As
g$_""2(B(*/$!(4$'."$,(-$!."%$J#/$L(9(T4$ long as the demonic qualities remain in man,
coronation took place after his victorious meaning is “The Awareness of the Inner Light.” he will be immersed in darkness. Bad qualities
return to Ayodhya from Lanka vanquishing and thoughts have to be got rid of altogether.
Ravana and his brood. In the absence of the
effulgent Rama, Ayodhya was a city of dark Krishna took Sathyabhama with Him and de asm is another. All these are different forms of Many Deepavali festivals have come and
ness. The return of Rama was hailed by the stroyed him in battle. Vijayadasami celebrates darkness. To get rid of the darkness of sorrow, gone. The house is lit with lamps, but the
people of Ayodhya as the return of divine ef the victory of Krishna over Narakasura. It is you have to Light the Lamp of happiness. To heart is full of the darkness of ignorance. The
fulgence and hence they celebrated the event also known as Naraka Chaturdasi. The fol dispel the darkness of disease, you have to lamp is not merely the symbol of the knowl
by the lighting of lamps everywhere. lowing day is Amavasya (New Moon Day). install the light of health. To get over the dark edge to Truth. It is also the symbol of the One,
Krishna freed from prison 16,000 women ness of losses and failures, you have to usher in the Atma that shines in and through all this
g$ $ 8.&74(%,4$ &5$ -"(#4$ (0&$ '."#"$ !(4$ ($ and asked them to go back to their respective the light of prosperity. multiplicity. Just as with one lamp, a thousand
planet called Naraka which appeared to be ap homes. lamps can be lit and the One is as bright as ever
2#&(3./%0$3*&4"$'&$'."$"(#'.1$@"&2*"$!"#"$+**",$ Lead me from the blindness of ignorance in spite of the thousands deriving light from it,
with dread of the approaching catastrophe, g$ _""2(B(*/$ !(4$ '."$ ,(-$ !."%$ Q&#,$ into the vision of the Truth. Cleanse the mind so too, the Atma illumines the Jiva (individual)
hence prayed to Lord Krishna for averting the Vamana sent the Emperor Bali to the Nether (%,$'."$8#7'.$!/**$)"$#"6"3'",$'."#"/%1$$$8."#"$ and shines in and through them, without un
imminent disaster and to save them. Krishna World after getting the promise of three feet is something beyond the physical body and dergoing any diminution in its splendor. The
used His Prajna (extraordinary knowledge) to of ground (measured by the Lord’s foot) from 9/%,$ !./3.$ /4$ 27#"?$ /%+%/'"?$ (%,$ "'"#%(*?$ Atma is the Cause; all else are effects. Wake
destroy Naraka. This extraordinary knowl Bali called the Atma. Just as we celebrate the birth up from the slumber of ignorance. Realize the
edge of Krishna was termed Sathya. i.e., of our physical being, Deepavali is the celebra constant and eternal light of the Atma. May
Krishna destroyed Naraka in association with g$$$_""2(B(*/$!(4$'."$,(-$&%$!./3.$K92"#&#$ tion of this Inner Light, the knowing of which you all attain full inner illumination! May the
Sathya. The residents of the world started cel Vikramaditya ascended the throne. outshines all darkness (removes all obstacles supreme Light of Lights enlighten your under
ebrating that day with lighting of lamps and and dispels all ignorance), awakening the in standing! May you all attain the inexhaust
adoring the Lord who saved them. That day of dividual to one’s true nature, not as the body, ible spiritual wealth of the Self! May you all
the Lord’s triumph was celebrated as a festive INNER MEANING OF DEEPAVALI )7'$(4$'."$7%3.(%0/%0?$/%+%/'"?$/99(%"%'$(%,$ prosper gloriously on the material as well as
occasion as Deepavali too. transcendent reality. With the realization of spiritual planes!
The Vedic Prayer, “Tamasomaa Jyotir the Atma, come universal compassion, love, Ravinder Grover
g$ V(#(<(47#($ /92#/4&%",$ '.&74(%,4$ &5$ Gamaya”; Lead me from Darkness to Light. and the awareness of the oneness of all things
princesses and tortured innumerable women. This means light is needed where there is (higher knowledge) that brings Ananda (Bliss).
Unable to bear these indignities, the women darkness. What is this darkness? Sorrow
appealed to Krishna for help. As Narakasura is one form of darkness. Loss of Peace is Deepavali is a festival which is designed
.(,$ /%6/3'",$ 4755"#/%04$ &%$ !&9"%?$ ."$ .(,$ another. Disappointment is the form of dark to celebrate the suppression of the Ego by the
to be punished by a woman. For this reason, ness. Misery is yet another. Lack of enthusi Higher Self. Man is plunged in the darkness of
THE ORIGINS OF THE MAHATMA GANDHI CENTRE GO BACK TO 1937 WHEN THE AUCKLAND INDIAN COMMUNITY BOUGHT THE GANDHI HALL SITE
The origins of the Mahatma Gandhi Centre go back 1980, it was not even big enough to host a wedding. a little bit of the Taj Mahal to Eden Terrace.” The year 2001 saw the completion of the Radha
to 1937 when the Auckland Indian community The association looked at many sites for develop Since those early days, the association has con X#/4.%($ 9(%,/#?$ (5'"#$ +B"$ -"(#4$ &5$ 2*(%%/%0$ (%,$
bought the Gandhi Hall site. But the Great Depres ing the Hall in a bigger manner and in August 1990, tinually striven to develop the complex and it has further fund raising. This activity raised over a
sion and then World WarII put severe constraints bought the present site, which was the Findlay’s taken twenty years and over $6 million to get to the million dollars from the community. The Pran
5&#$ #(/4/%0$ +%(%3"4$ '&$ ,"B"*&2$ '."$ 4/'"?$ (%,$ (4$ ($ Bakery building for the sum of $1.9 million. present stage of the Centre. Pratishtha ceremony and rituals (cnsecration of the
result new development was postponed ro as many Money for the purchase was raised in a variety The complex today stands on a one hectare plot deities) was celebrated in June 2001.
as eleven years, until 1948. of ways. The original Gandhi Hall was worth and comprise a built up area of 75,000 feet. Most Over the years, the Centre has received the
It took a small number of community members $400,000. There was $108,000 in the bank to which of the cash for the development of the complex was blessings of a number of holy personages like
seven long years to raise the money thereafter and were added funds that were raised by members and raised by families in amounts ranging from $3000 Muniji, Shri Rameshbhai Oza and Murari Bapu.
'."$ .(**$ !(4$ /%(707#('",$ &%$ U3'&)"#$ Z?$ SiOO?$ +' supplemented by a loan of $350,000 from the ANZ to $50,000. Several leaders have also graced the venue includ
tingly on Gandhi Jayanti day. Since then, the hall Bank. The purchase was completed a year later in The ASB Charitable Trust, the Auckland City ing political and business leaders, statesmen, Prime
has grown from strength to strength becoming one 1991. Council and the Lotteries Commission also made Ministers, Members of Parliament, Councillors and
of the most useful venues for the Indian community The complex, though by no means complete, large contributions. But the bulk of it all was raised Mayors.
not only in Auckland but also in the country. was opened by the then Prime Minister of New by the lay people, the hundreds of Indian families of Visitors from India have included senior leaders
The original hall, though, soon became inad Zealand Hon Jim Bolger in May 1994. On the occa (B"#(0"$+%(%3/(*$9"(%4$!.&$(*4&$27'$/%$($*&'$&5$.(#,$ like Pranab Mukherjee, heads of the Indian Army
equate to house the growing Indian diaspora and by sion, President Raman Patel said, “We are bringing work as volunteers over two decades. and Navy, successive High Commissioners and a
number of Indian Members of Parliament. richment of the community,” says Chairman of the
The Mahatma’s 136th birth anniversary, October
2, 2005, was marked with the unveiling of the full
size bronze statue that adorns the top of the centre
Board of Trustees, Shri Kanu Patel.
The Centre’s success is clearly attributable to
the humble, ordinary members achieving extraordi Gandhi Jayanti & Tagore
Library inauguration
at the main entrance of the building. The statue was nary results with their commitment to fund raising,
sculpted in India, a process that took seven months, !&#</%0$ 4"*6"44*-$ (%,$ #"*"%'*"44*-$ '&!(#,4$ /'4$
and was air freighted to Auckland. success – a contribution far greater than that made
A host of luminaries and dignitaries attended the by the wealthy and professional individuals of the
unveiling including Mahatma Gandhi’s great grand community.
daughter, Leela Gandhi, former Prime Minister On this anniversary occasion, the trustees and
Helen Clark, the then opposition leader Don Brash members of the Centre urge all members of the
and former Auckland Mayor Dick Hubbard. community to join in the efforts to help lay the foun
The venue has played host to some of the most dation for building a new centre and a new building
4/0%/+3(%'$ 4&3/(*?$ 37*'7#(*?$ #"*/0/&74$ (%,$ 974/3(*$ '.('$#"6"3'4$&7#$#/3.$37*'7#"?$974/3?$,(%3"?$(#3./'"3
events and festivals throughout the last few decades. ture, art and heritage. A sum of about $20 million is
“It is the best investment we have made for the en what would be needed for this effort.
On 3rd of October Auckland Indian Association Celebrated the Gandhi Jayanti at Mahatma
Gandhi Centre. The celebration was well attended by many people older and younger. Indians
feel proud that 2nd October is now recognized as a Non Violence day by United Nations.
The Chief Guest Mr Ramanbhai Ganda lit the Diya (Ghee Lamp) and garlanded the Gang
hiji’s photo. The Gandhi Grah Gujarati School children performed some items : Songs, quotes,
short biography, and cultural items. Unveiling of Gandhiji’s bust was done by a senior and life
May the festival of light member of the Association Shri Chhotubhai Sima. It was a unique and an emotional moment.
The Gandhiji’s bust was donated by the Chairman of the Global Indian Foundation New Zealand,
encircle your life with Joy and Shri Venkat Raman. Mr Sima spoke about Gandhiji who taught the world Truth and Non vio
Happiness. May this bright day lence.
bless you with health, wealth The Tagore Library was inaugurated by Dr Rajendra Prasad. The Library is equipped with
computers, magazines, books, CDs and DVDs in Hindi, Gujarati, English and Kannada. The
and prosperity. association is planning to expand the library for other Indian regional groups. Most of the books
are educational, cultural, history and religious. The Library also have security camera, bar
With these blessings sending coding, security gate and computers with broadband.
Dr Lingappa Kalburgi the Secretary of the association spoke about International Day for
my warm wishes. Older People (IDOP). It was very pleasing to see many senior people attended the function.
Pravinbhai C Patel Mr Sanjay Ganda and Mr Kanu Patel (Chairman of Board of Trustee) spoke about digital
Chairman archive of the association.
Finally the celebration was concluded with light refreshment.
Sri Radha Krishna Temple
Method:
Ingredients:
! Cook pasta in boiling salted water
! 350g- Pasta (preferably shell shaped)
until just tender. Drain and keep it
! 0.150kg- Ham (any kind of ham that aside.
your kids like)
! Melt butter in a pan. Add pasta fol-
! 150ml- cream lowed by chopped ham. Toss well
! 1cup- grated cheese over a gentle heat.
3. Take Ashwagandha Churna/Capsule Note: Next free Yoga class held on 18th
everyday to help mind and body become October, Sunday 10am-11.30am at India
trade group, Unit E, 8 Bishop Lenihan place,
accustomed better to stress.
Botany (Opp. Botany Junction).
Advertisement
New Zealand Indian Central Association (Inc.)
PO Box 1941 Wellington, New Zealand
President: Ratilal Champaneri Gen Secretary: Veer Khar
Phone: 021 383 859 Phone: 0274 417 654
Email: president@nzindians.org.nz Email: secretary@nzindians.org.nz
DIWALI GREETINGS!
83 Year Old New Zealand Indian Central Association Wishes
All Kiwis
FAMOUS FIRST
3. Chintu was carrying his mug to
INDIA’S first feature TIMEPASS his room taking good care to see
film called !"#$%&'(,
made by R.G. Tornay, that not a drop from it spilt, when
was released on May 18, he accidentally tripped over a toy
1912 at the Coronation car. As you can imagine, the mug
Theatre in Bombay. fell from his hand on to the floor
!"#$%&'( was a silent and broke into a hundred pieces.
narrative film based on the life of What was surprising was that not
a Maharashtrian a drop of milk fell on the floor.
saint of the same name. How’s that possible?
1. Razvin and Zeenat together have 120
marbles. Razvin has 20 marbles more
than Zeenat. How many marbles does
Razvin have?
4. If it takes four men to dig two holes and
two men to dig one hole, how many men
EASY DRAW 2. A l e x a n d e r will it take to dig half a hole?
was 20 years
Draw a stork in 4 easy steps.
old in 1980,
but only 15 Answers :
years old in you?!
1985. Do 4. You can’t dig half a hole, can
you know water, not milk!
how? 3. Because the mug contained
as you probably assumed.
2. The years are in BC, not AD,
1. Razvin has 70 marbles.
2. IS IT GUARANTEED? 6. POLICY ANNIVERSARY
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Heritage
Why do we need Festivals?
An important topic of discussion is India’s religious festivals. What is the need for them? How are they celebrated?
What is their significance and how can we make the best use of these occasions?
Let us first analyse why there is a need for become routine and we want to go on vaca is clear: Though these various amusements us to raise our minds to the heights of that
these religious festivals. As we work every tions to Lake Tahoe, Disney World, or Las relax the mind and revive us for a while, they great goal. Rather than merely exhausting us
day from morning until evening, we become Vegas! When these places become dull for themselves become monotonous rituals after physically and mentally, they purify the mind
tired and naturally need to rest. We go home us, we want to go to other exotic countries far some time, leaving us with a peculiar feeling and prepare us to face life with more enthusi
to eat and sleep and we feel revitalised, and away from our ordinary experiences – some of incompleteness. Although the purpose of asm, to live life more happily and fully.
are ready to work again the next morning. place totally different! Thus our vacations and vacations is to help us feel rested, to gain more If we observe these festivals closely, we
However, as our life continues between work amusements are meant to remove our boredom enthusiasm, cheerfulness and energy for our will see that they not only point out the ulti
and rest, day after day, a kind of monotony and give us a sense of mental rest and relax regular work, we generally find that the op mate goal of life, but also give us guidelines to
sets in. We feel bored and think to ourselves, ation, at least for some time. posite is true. When the vacation is over, we reach that goal. In short, our religious festivals
“I need a change.” Although our physical ex Recognising this need for change and enter think,” Oh now I have to go back to the office. serve the purpose of all other entertainment
haustion is revived by sleeping, how do we get tainment, the Hindu religion provides special What a bore!” Often we are left exhausted and at the same time give us much more.
rid of this boredom, this mental exhaustion? occasions, festivals of a religious nature, not only physically, but also financially! Our
What we generally do is look for some kind of called utsavs. No religion will last very long pockets are empty and we must again work Swami Tejomayananda is the spiritual
entertainment. if it does not understand the common needs hard to make up for the lost hard earned head of Chinmaya Mission worldwide, is
The Sanskrit word for entertainment, mano and desires of people, insisting only on strict money. The pleasure, of the vacation has, in one of the foremost disciples of the world
ranjana, means delighting the mind, entertain discipline at all times – as well as fasting there effect, not removed the pressure; it only added renowned authority on the scriptures of India
ing the mind. Some people sit and watch tele must also be feasting, singing, dancing, and a new one! Why did the vacation not give us Swami Chinmayananda. He is an outstand
vision for entertainment; others play cards, go joyous celebrations. the desired result? Because it was a purpose ing teacher of Vedanta and an accomplished
on picnics, or spend time on a hobby. Every One may ask that if the purpose of these less entertainment. poet, author, and composer. Swami Tejo
one looks forward to their weekends so that festivals is to remove our mental and physi On the other hand, our religious festivals mayananda is due to visit Auckland in April
they can do something that is fun and relax cal exhaustion, then why are our vacations and have a very different effect. They not only 2010.
ing, a relief from the pressure and monotony of weekends not sufficient? Why do we need reli give us occasions for merrymaking, but they
work. Yet, after a while, even these weekends gious festivals that involve pujas? The answer also give us a noble, divine vision and inspire