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Vol.9 No. 45 March 11-17, 2017 80 Cents New York Edition Follow us on TheSouthAsianTimes.info
AIA executive committee members posing with Amb. Riva Ganguly Das and NYC Comptroller Scott
Stringer; (right) President Gobind Munjal stressed AIAs Desi Next program for the younger generation.
New York: The Association of Executive Committee members shared AIAs achievement such as
Indians in America (AIA), New were sworn in: Vice Presidents: obtaining the minority status and
York Chapter, known for holding Harish T hakkar, Dr Bal Gilja, the inclusion in the census.
the annual Deepavali Festival, a Gitanjli Anand, Dr Jagdish Gupta; Mr. Munjal laid down his vision
major New York calendar event, MembersAtLarge: Gobind for expanding the youth pro
held the Inauguration / Oath Bathija, Asmita Bhatia, Vinod grams and stressed the need for Indian Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson
Ceremony of the newly elected Chand, Indu Gajwani, Jyoti Gupta, membership drive for the youths Washington: T he Trump started under the previous Obama
20172018 Executive Committee Usha Kapoor, Beena Kothari, and get them involved. He Administration has a "very positive administration, would be held later
at the Consulate General of India Deepika Modi, Sudeep Jay Modi, expressed his commitment to view" of the IndoUS relationship and this year.
here. The ceremony was graced Beenu Sabharwal, Nina Sahani, upholding AIAs objective of a lot of interest in taking the ties for Dates were being worked out for the
by Consul General of India, Shyam Gajwani, Divya Shah, Indian Heritage, American ward, Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar India visit of Secretary of State Rex
Ambassador Riva Ganguly Das, as Pushpa Shah, Avinash Suri, Commitment through expanded said after his wideranging talks on Tillerson and Commerce Secretary
chief guest, Deputy Consul Hargovind Gupta, Anita Thakkar programs such as Desi Next, a several issues including H1B visas Wilbur Ross to hold the first India US
General Dr. Manoj Mohapatra, and Swati Vaishnav. forum for the younger genera with top officials in Washington. The Strategic and Commercial Dialogue
NYC Comptroller Scott Stringer, NYC Comptroller Scott Stringer tion, commitment to local philan Foreign secretary said that India con under the Trump administration.
Manhattan Borough President saluted contributions of the thropic projects to serve the veyed to the United States that H1B He termed his visit as very produc
Gale Brewer, Past Presidents of Indian Immigrant community to Indian community, in addition to was a category of trade in services tive and said that the importance of
AIA National & Chapter the City of New York, and empha the continued commitment to the that helps American economy. relationship was conveyed to the
Presidents, community leaders, sized the importance of the diver annual Deepavali Festival with This comes amongst widespread Trump administration. Besides this
media and prominent guests from sity, while presenting the com fireworks at South Street Seaport. concerns regarding skilled Indian India also took up the issues regarding
the tristate area. mendation certificate to AIA. The ceremony was invoked with workers in the US, which have become the safety of Indians in the US, espe
Immediate Past President Mr Manhattan Borough President Ganesh Vandana performed by more serious after the US Citizenship cially against the backdrop of Kansas
Sunil Modi, introduced by Asmita Gail Brewer, a longterm friend of Me lana Krishna of Nritya and Immigration Services said that shooting. The visiting Indian officials,
Bhatia, talked about accomplish AIA, congratulated the team, and Saagaram Dance Academy, and an starting April 3, 2017, it will tem accompanied by the Indian
ments of his 4year Presidency. reinforced her support to the energizing performance by stu porarily suspend premium processing Ambassador to the US, Navtej Sarna,
He expressed his full confidence Indian community, citing exam dents of Nartan Rang Dance for all H1B petitions. This suspension also met the top leadership of the US
that AIAs future under the new ples of her support for the sus Academy of Bharatiya Vidya may last up to 6 months. Jaishankar Congress, including House Speaker
leadership of Mr Gobind Munjal is pension of parking rules during Bhavan after the rendition of told reporters that he is "optimistic" Paul Ryan, House Minority Leader
bright and that the NY Chapter Deepavali. national anthems of USA and about the continuation of the upward Nancy Pelosi, Senate Foreign Relations
will further flourish. Dr. Shashi Shah, National India by Gita Setia, ITV host. The trajectory of the bilateral relationship. Committee Chairman Bob Corker and
The newly elected President President of AIA, which is cele vote of thanks was presented by He added that the IndiaUS Strategic his House counterpart Congressman
Gobind Munjal and the following brating its 50th year, proudly AIA Secretary Vimal Goyal. and Commercial Dialogue, which was Ed Royce.
South Carolina violence against Indians. Thursday, saying the new bill is tions have home in Pakistan. So
Another Indian, Harnish Patel, the closest we will ever get to as long as these groups maintain
was killed in South Carolina 10 repealing and replacing safe haven inside Pakistan they
New York: Although there has expressed puzzlement over the Obamacare.
days ago, but the killing was not will threaten longterm stability in
been no arrest in the killing of motivation for killing of Patel, Some Republican Congressman
identified as a hate crime. Afghanistan, he said.
Harnish Patel in South Carolina one of three attacks in which peo have criticized the proposed bill, Of particular concern is the
state last week, of ficials say ple of Indian origin were victims,
BJP ahead but to fall short calling instead for separate legis Haqqani Network, which poses the
invest ig at ions are making the newspaper reported.
of majority in UP lation that they say more fully greatest threat to coalition forces
progress but they are not sure of "We don't have any direct evi repeals Obamacare. Kentucky Sen.
Continued from page 1 operating in Afghanistan, he said
the motive. The Post and Courier dence that tells us it's an ethnical Rand Paul and House Freedom
tight finish between Congress and adding that to date, the Pakistan
newspaper quoted Lancaster ly mot ivated killing", Doug Caucus member Jim Jordan
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the military and security services have
County Sheriff Barry Faile as say Barfield, a lawyer for the local recently announced plans to intro
assembly polls with two exit polls not taken lasting actions against
ing, "We are making progress on Sheriff's Office told the newspa duce separate healthcare legisla
giving the exact same number of it.
this case." per. "And we don't have anything tion.
seats to the two parties. We have consistently called
The newspaper reported on that tells us it's not." The White House of ficial con
In two other exit polls, Congress upon the Pakistanis to take the
Wednesday that local of ficials "We don't have any graffiti, any ceded that some conservative con
was ahead in one and AAP in the necessary actions to deny terror
said that the State Law antiMuslim or antiIndian graffi cerns about the bill wont be
other, but all the polls predicted ists safe haven and improve secu
Enforcement division was helping ti" scrawled on his front door," he addressed, noting the nature of
that the ruling Akali DalBJP rity in the FATA along the Afghan
with the investigation. An official added. legislative negotiation.
alliance was headed for a huge border region, he said.
Women's empowerment
can increase global
GDP by $12 trillion
Assistant Secretary
General Lakshmi Puri
IN BRIEF
Centenary celebration of
never forget the fire that was lit to make ing part of that change. The events from
something of her life, and to use that life to this week, this amazing women's march,
serve others," she wrote. echoed globally that the expectations I
She wrote, that week, she signed up to be
a volunteer at the hospital and signed up
have are not ones I hold in isolation. I want
a different world. I need a different world,"
Osmania University in Chicago
for an afterschool program teaching cre Sindhu wrote. lory of Hyderabad" is organizing Cen Osmania University, with 300,000 stu
Comptroller Maragos
decries attacks What makes it different this time
}
olitical rhetoric and l By Parveen Chopra
P acts that single out
cy. So, as eminent attorney Ravi Batra says on the
adjoining page, the onus is on President Trump
and discriminate against our days after the horric attacks of 9/11, to call an end to shameful and countryripping
any ethnic
or religious
groups is
F Balbir Singh Sodhi, a 49yearold Sikh, was
gunned down outside the gas station he
owned in Mesa, Arizona. Mistaken to be Muslim
demonic "hate," in favor of our Better Angels that
uplifts us all.
Many of us Indian Americans voted for Trump
unAmerican because of their beards, Sikhs have been the vic last November. Let us now not nd an expression
and must be tims of hate crimes since then, the worst being a worse than basket of deplorables for them. They
condemned. gunman opening re inside a Wisconsin gurd thought and perhaps still think that his trade and
The recent wara in 2012, killing six. taxation policies and $1 trillion in infrastructure
rhetoric by This time, a white guy mistook a darkcomplex spending will be good for the country and better
Nassau County President
ioned Srinivas Kuchibhotla from south India to ment of all Americans. This may still come to
Comptroller AntiTrump placards near the pyre of Srinivas
Trump has be a Middle Eastern and shot him in a bar in pass. That still does nothing to calm down the
George Maragos Kuchibhotla in Hyderabad.
gone too far Olathe, Kansas. Get out my country chant was insecurity among the minorities and people of
and is resulting in acts of hatred echoed days later in Washington state, by a heightened the foreboding. That he himself dal color.
against Indian, Muslim, and Sikh masked white man with a gun who shot at Deep lied for a few days before decrying the clearly Indians, being brown and doing much better
communities not seen since after Rai, a Sikh American who has survived. racist attack in Kansas was bad optics to say the than some other minority communities in
World War II under McCarthyism. What is different this time is the enormity of least. America, had become complacent. The current
Our County Executive (Edward P. the outrage and widespread fear among the India has strongly taken up the matter with atmosphere may jolt them into more civic
Mangano) must speak out against Indian community in America over safety and Washington. Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar was engagement. Already, the media noted that some
the Immigration Ban and take security concerns. There have been vigils and conveyed by US ofcials that the Feb 22 attack Indian ladies took part in the womens march the
proactive and public steps to pro protests in different parts of the country. Back in on Kuchibhotla and his friend was an individual day after Trumps inauguration in Washington,
tect our communities against India too there have been protests against such case. Of course, there is no conspiracy, no DC. Some progress! We must also take to heart
racial hatred, ethnic discrimina hate crimes. One fallout: some people shelving organized gangs like the dotbusters couple of the advice of community leaders and politicians
tion, and antiSemitism. the idea of going to America to study or work. decades ago in New Jersey. It was an isolated act of various stripes to participate more actively in
I call on our County Executive It is different this time because the recent hate by a disturbed White man who bore some the political process. Fortunately, we have ve of
and the Police Commissioner to crimes could have been foretold because of the grudge against the foreigner looking people. But our own in the US Congress currently, and they
publicly assure our residents that antiimmigrant rhetoric and bigotry of the that does not assuage the security fears in the have voiced our concerns loudly and clearly.
Nassau County administration Trump election campaign. President Trumps community. The real, unsaid fear is this: the There need to be more pondering and heart
will do all within its power to pro executive actions and proposals since inaugura looming presence of Steve Bannon in the White searching to nd the way forward to not only
tect all our residents from dis tion such as travel ban on predominantly House as Trumps brain is a dog whistle, that this make our place secure here, but also for the
~
criminatory rhetoric and Muslim countries, revising H1 and H4 visa rules, administration wants to curtail fresh immigra peace and prosperity of the country we now call
hateful acts. making immigration meritbased etc have only tion to retain white majority and white suprema home.
I
t's been about two weeks since camel's back. Those who agree responsibility toward the United criminals are not the Mexicans but building an economic society; we
Srinivas Kuchibhotla died of a with Trump began to see this as an States. T hen, there is politics, true blue Americans who go are building a civic society," he
gunshot wound, and Alok opportunity to take the law into national and international. A group around killing foreigners about said. His implication is that Asians
Madasani injured. Harish Patel in their own hands and commit vio called South Asian Americans whom they know nothing. And cannot join in the building of a
South Carolina was shot and killed, lence against immigrants. Leading Together (SAALT) has doc immigrants are leaving; foreigners civic society simply because they
and Deep Rai in Seattle survived a What exacerbates this whole, umented over 200 incidents of are not coming in. are Asians and know nothing
murder attempt. Madasani is a unpleasant and scary situation is hate violence and xenophobic We are thus standing on the pre about America. Well, are these
friend of Kuchibhotla the two the added ignorance of those who crimes against South Asian and carious isthmus between fear for poor white Americans, with their
software engineers worked for committing hate crimes, those Arab communities. The Hindu, one ourselves, and anxiety for our levels of education and ignorance,
Garmin, a GPS company. often referred to as "white trash." of India's most respected newspa adopted home. As South Asians better builders of American civic
All this we know. What none of They cannot distinguish between pers, has called for External Affairs what should we do? What is our society? As immigrants and US citi
us can fathom is why these two immigrants from the Middle East Minister Sushma Swaraj to formal responsibility? zens we have a duty to join the
young Indians, relaxing with a and South Asia. Purinton, the man ly protest to President Trump I suggest we should join the vast civic resistance that is building up
drink in an upscale bar in Kansas, who killed Kuchibhotla, thought he about the lack of safety of Indians resistance already building in in America and educate our set
would be so cruelly targeted clear was killing a Middle Eastern. in America. America against hate and discrimi tler white American brothers.
out of the blue. Or so it seems. White House press secretary Sean But for me, and most Indian nation, not just against Indians but Invite them to our homes, mix with
But perhaps not. According to Spicer categorically rejected any Americans, the recent clearly hate against all minorities. Indians in them, be eager to learn from them
Alok Madasani who was having the causal re lat ionship between crimes make us quest ion: Is this country have a tendency to be their culture; not be separate.
drink with the deceased, the assas Trump's (hate) speeches against America changing? clannish, looking only after their Through our clannishness and
sin, Adam Purinton, was already Mexican undocumented criminals Sandip Roy, a writer who recent own interests. Yes, we have lost myopia, let us not prove Steve
harassing them, asking questions and this crime. He failed to address ly relocated to India from the US, three of our brothers; but we are Bannon right.
whether they were legally in the why such crimes have suddenly and David Brooks of The New York losing much more than that. We,
US. Many people, therefore, are ared up since Trump's inaugura Times have lamented the change in the immigrants, are losing our The writer is Professor of
connecting the attack directly with tion. Denying the connection may American environment from being foothold in this country. Our ght English and Vice President for
Trump's mission of deporting all be justied; not saying anything a friendly, trusting, sweet simple is not against President Trump. He Academic
undocumented entrants. Since the about the killer, a former Navy ton (Roy's view) to a country has been legally elected. Our ght Affairs at
presidential election, during which Seal, or the murder victims, seems breeding fear, hate and paranoia, should be against anything unfair Boricua
Donald Trump had made a number insensitive and callous. especially about foreigners and unjustied be it a presidential College in
of inammatory remarks, the So now what can be done? On (Brooks'). I submit that these Executive Order or these senseless NYC. He
atmosphere in the country has the one side we have fear. Many things are radically changing all killings of minorities. has lived in
been decidedly antiimmigrant. Indians, back home and here in the our lives. What Donald Trump Steve Bannon, Trump's chief the US for
President Trump's Executive Order US, are calling for Indians to promised ostensibly by changing adviser, has looked dismally at the 50 years.
barring entry by people from return. On the other, we who live and amending laws is ironically fact that more than twothirds of
10 March 11-17, 2017 NATIONAL COMMUNITY TheSouthAsianTimes.info
I
t is a dream for many Indians Mayukh Majumdar, who closely in almost all first world countries. grants is to go to a peaceful peace. yours" are the words that come
to find their way to the US, followed the US presidential A student who lives in fear of get from a country which has about
the land of abundant oppor election: ting deported for doing something Abhinav Singh, a social media 13% of its total population of for
tunities. But the recent incidents It's definitely a sad phenomenon wrong, is now also living in the executive: eigners. United States is one of
there are making many to of hate crimes against Indians in fear of getting harassed. It is easy T his rapid rise of blind hate undoubtedly the most influential
rethink what good are all crime. But it's not unexpected for me to feel targeted after learn against innocent people because countries in the world, which
those promised opportunities if especially since we have been see ing about crimes against Indians in they appear to be a certain way is makes it an important economy
you have to risk your life and ing increasing attacks against the America. Racial discrimination has absolutely abhorrent. In India too, too. It is here that these foreign
limb? minorities and people of color in always been an issue, but now it people are victimized for belonging nationals contribute about 14.7%
In May 2016, Davinder singh the United States after an election has entered a dif ferent phase to certain states or religion. We to the US economy, which is actual
was shot dead at his gas station which was highly divisive. where people are being attacked express our outrage against hap ly larger than the share of their
in Newark. A few months later Everyone wants to visit America wantonly, with seeming impunity. penings in the United States, and population.
came the news of Nicki Pancholy once in their lifetime, but now it's I'm being asked by my parents to rightly so, but this should make us Thus, hate crimes become a very
who was attacked in California sad that a lot of Indians are recon go out in a group, so that I'm not realize that hatred anywhere is important issue not just for people,
in November. But last months sidering visiting because they're targeted or attacked. My confi detestable. We will definitely see an but also for the economy. Even
hateful killing of Srinivas fearful of what might happen to dence is gone for a toss and fear increase in such attacks because when we exclude the economy fac
Kuchibhotla has sparked a them if they do. has gripped me. I hope that US this has been normalized by the cur tor, the bigger question here is
huge outrage in India, where President Trump looks into this so rent White House. about the value of life. Is anyone's
many parents are advising Rakshita Chhajer, who is study that students like us who are seek life as dispensable as a glass of
their children to shelve plans ing Brand Management in the UK: ing opportunities in the Untied Kopal Cheema, a prospective beer in a Kansas bar? How many
to go to America for jobs or The constant hate towards immi States can safely step in. After all, business journalist more lives do we have to lose
studies. grants is seen clearly among locals what concerns students and immi "Leave my country and go to before this can be stopped?
Hawaii to fight Trump's revised travel ban ment of former President Obama was wire
tapping American citizens, a seeming refer
Obama was reportedly infuriated by the
Honolulu: A day after President Trump tries and temporarily shuts down ence to the massive surveillance carried out
Presidents allegation that Trump Tower
signed a revised travel ban, attorneys America's refugee program, af fecting by the National Security Agency (NSA)
was wiretapped going into the election.
for Hawaii said the state plans to chal wouldbe visitors and immigrants from revealed by whistleblower Edward Snowden,
so he could have done the same to Trump. former president through a statement by his
lenge that order as well. Iran, Syria, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen and
The President wants the truth to come out spokesman.
The state wants to amend its existing Libya.
to the American people through the House White House spokesman Sean Spicer asked
lawsuit challenging Trump's previous Hawaii's lawsuit had been on hold
Inte lligence Committee and that is the later that Congress investigate the alleged
order to contest the revised one, while a nationwide injunction on the
process we go through, she said. wiretapping as part of the case about Russias
according to a motion filed on Tuesday initial ban remained in place. This is
Trumps accusation without substantiation supposed interference in last Novembers US
in federal court in Honolulu. the second time Hawaii has asked a
that Obama ordered his telephone calls to be presidential election, in order to determine
The new order bars new visas for judge to lift the stay in order to file an
wiretapped was tweeted by Trump, which was whether there was a potential abuse of power
people from six Muslimmajority coun amended lawsuit.
rejected hours later as simply false by the by the Obama administration.
14 March 11-17, 2017 OP-ED TheSouthAsianTimes.info
By IndiaSpend Team
DOING BUSINESS EASIER, BUT INDIA STILL
I
ndia improved its ease of doing
business ranking last year
moving up from 131 to 130 in a AMONG WORST PERFORMERS
list of 190 countries by reducing
the average time taken to start an safety. This is about the same time
enterprise and secure a permanent that Japan takes and twice the
electricity connection, according to time taken by developed Western
2016 World Bank data. nat ions such as US, UK and
However, an IndiaSpend analysis Germany. South Asia is the slowest
of these data shows that India still region in this respect, slower than
ranks among the worst performers even African countries.
on other key parameters. In every country, industrial and
Using five parameters, we picked commercial disputes arise when
10 nations across seven regions to there is a conflict of interest
compare India's ease of doing busi between companies or between
ness south and east Asia (includ companies and the government.
ing China), developed countries, Resolving these conflicts in the
subSaharan Africa, lower middle least possible time is a sign of a
income countries such as India healthy and growing economy.
(with per capita incomes between In most indicators, India ranked low, coming closest to subSaharan African countries. India, on an average, takes thrice
$1,026 and $4,035) and the the time to resolve disputes than
European Union. completing legal procedures and slowest of the four most advanced taken to provide electricity to a developed countries. The country's
In most indicators, India ranked (5) resolving insolvency if a busi countries take: US (6), UK (5), new enterprise rose to 100 days in judicial system is fraught with
low, coming closest to subSaharan ness fails. We compared these Germany (11) and Japan (11). 201314, and then gradually fell to delays and there is a shortage of
African countries. parameters in India with three However, it is an improvement 46 days in 2016. South Korea lower as we ll as hig her court
The five indicators are all related country groups over the decade over the 34 days it took in 2014 to leads with the least time, 18 days. judges. India is slower than even
to the time taken to get key tasks 2007 to 2016: (1) neighboring get a new project going. When it comes to warehousing, its poorer Asian neig hbors at
completed. Those include: (1) start Asian countries (2) deve loped The one area where India has dispute resolution and dealing resolving insolvencies that are
ing a business, (2) building a ware countries and (3) differently devel made considerable improvement is with insolvency, India is still way common in market economies.
house and equip the industrial oped country groups. provision of electricity to new busi behind. Companies here take about When businesses collapse, it is
premises with water and sewerage W hen compared to the most nesses. It has overtaken three half a year to build a warehouse, important to resolve and recover
connection, telephone line and advanced Western economies and major economies and lags only cost ing about Rs 50 lakh accumulated loans and debts so
safety measures (3) getting perma Japan, Indian businesses take behind Germany in this aspect. ($75,000) in Mumbai, with provi that entrepreneurs and banks do
nent provision of electricity, (4) twice the time (26 days) that the From 60 days in 200912, the time sions for water, telephone and not suffer.
I
n the confrontation between the ( JNU), which the BJP MP, the Kedar Nath Singh vs the State
Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Subramanian Swamy, wanted to be of Bihar in 1962, "a citizen has the
Parishad (ABVP) and the Leftist closed down and fumigated. right to say or write whatever he
students in the various campuses, Now, the scene has shifted to the likes about the government or its
the saffron brotherhoods muscular colleges of the University of Delhi measures by way of criticism or
nationalism is facing stif f resist after the ABVP protested against comment so long as he does not
ance not so much from the tradi the invitation sent to a JNU stu incite people to violence against
tional politicians, despite their dent, Umar Khalid, to attend a sem the government established by law
occasional interventions, as from inar in Ramjas college. Its objec or with the intention of creating
the students. tions to Khalid's presence were that public disorder".
Since the latter are seen to be he made antinational speeches in In the context of this judgment, a
driven more by unsullied ideology JNU. The Hindutva camp's case call for "azadi" is no more than a
than any cunning political calcula against the nonsaffron students of declamatory outburst as long as
ABVP members participate in Tiranga March at Delhi University
tions, the Bharatiya Janata Party campus in New Delhi. (Photo: IANS) Hyderabad university, the JNU and there is no violence in its aftermath
(BJP) has not found it easy to deal the Delhi university is that they use or public disorder.
with these young idealists. tread carefully, therefore, when Nevertheless, it is clear that the the licence of the freedom of Whatever public disorder there
Its tactics have swayed back and criticising her. BJP finds it easier to lambaste speech to demand "azadi" (free has been can be said to be due to
forth, therefore, from outright con Even then, some in the BJP have Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav dom) for Kashmir, as in JNU, and, the intolerance of those who are
demnation of what the ABVP's tried to push the envelope as far as than deal with adversaries like more recently, for Bastar, which is unable to accept viewpoints other
opponents have been saying to an they could by depicting her as a Gurmehar. Khalid's special field of study. than their own and, therefore, tar
acknowledgement of the sincerity pawn in the hands of the Leftist This is not the first time that the Since this demand for "azadi" get the "alliance of subversion" in
of the youthful Leftleaning parties. Hence, Minister of State for BJP and the ABVP have been in a amounts to subversion Khalid the name of nationalism.
activists. Home Kiren Rijiju's loaded ques similar quandary. Last year, the faces charges of sedition and is cur It is obvious that branding critics
Nothing has shown the BJP's tion: who's polluting the mind of ABVP retreated into a shell for a rently out on bail Finance as subversives is essentially an
indecisiveness more than its varied this young girl? while after Rohith Vemula, a Dalit Minister Arun Jaitley has called the intimidatory tactic which becomes
responses to the 20yearold Delhi A Mysuru MP of the BJP even student of University of Hyderabad, nonABVP groups an "alliance of all the more menacing if it is wield
student, Gurmehar Kaur's straight went to the extent of comparing committed suicide in the aftermath subversion". ed by groups associated with the
forward challenge to the ABVP, the her with Dawood Ibrahim, which of a clash between the ABVP and His penchant for these catchy ruling dispensation.
Sangh parivar's student wing "I prompted Law Minister Ravi the Ambedkar Students phrases is known. He had called the Only the very brave and the ideo
am not afraid of the ABVP". Shankar Prasad to say that the par Association, to which Rohith return of official awards by a sec logically committed can stand up to
For the saf fronties, who wear liamentarian was "wrong". belonged. The clash occurred in the tion of the intelligentsia last year a such threats. At the same time,
their patriotism on their sleeves, Perhaps realising that the party context of a Union minister's belief "manufactured rebellion". since the opposing groups carry
the issue has been complicated by was going too far in its criticism of that the university was a den of Defence Minister Manohar political labels, the battles on the
the fact that Gurmehar is the the daughter of a martyr, Home antinationals. A few weeks after Parrikar has said, however, that campuses are likely to ebb and
daughter of a soldier who died in a Minister Rajnath Singh has called that tragedy, the ABVP became free speech is okay, but it has to be flow in accordance with the politi
terrorist attack. They have had to her a daughter of India. involved in skirmishes with the within a "reasonable legal frame cal currents outside.
The views expressed in Op Eds are not necessarily those of The South Asian Times.
Comptroller Maragos and DCG Dr Mohapatra felicitating HR Shah
6
16 March 11-17, 2017 HOLI Festival
(from left to right) Differently abled children celebrate holi during a program in Kolkata on Feb 5. (Photo: IANS) Nepalese people play with colored powders
after hoisting a colorful pole known as chir to mark the beginning of the week-long Holi festival in Kathmandu, Nepal, March 5.(Xinhua)
Workers busy making color powder ahead of Holi at a workshop in Jaipur, on Feb 16. (Photo: Ravi Shankar Vyas/IANS)
occasion and the traditions related to its ob- A human pyramid is formed to break the In Bengal, Holi is called Dol Yatra, or the E a st e r n I n d i a
servance, however, vary from region to re- pot of buttermilk hung high up in the street swing festival. Traditionally the festival is
gion in India. Know how Holi is celebrated in Haryana, also in North India. The tradition celebrated with idols of Krishna and Radha In Manipur too, Holi is extremely interest-
different parts of India and the places where of the Hindu undivided family there is that placed on swings and devotees take turns to ing. It is a six-day festival here, commencing
it is observed with the most gaiety. the brothers wife beats her brother in law swing them. Women dance around the swing on the full moon day of Phalguna. The tradi-
with her sari rolled up into a rope in a mock and sing devotional songs, as men spray tional and centuries-old Yaosang festival of
N o r th I n d i a rage. All this is done in good humor and colored water and powder called Abeer. Manipur amalgamated with Holi in the 18th
in the evening the brother in law brings However, recent trend doesnt see much of century with the introduction of Vaishnavism.
Holi at Mathura and Vrindavan is cele- sweetmeats for her. those traditions. People play with colored wa- In earlier times, folk dances were performed
brated with great gusto for many days. For, ters, powders in the morning. And later take with folk songs under the moonlight. The only
these were the places where Krishna spent W e st e r n I n d i a out processions on the streets with bands and musical instrument used was an indigenous
most of his childhood. Situated in the North with faces and bodies covered with Holi colors. drum. Presently, these have been replaced by
Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, the celebra- In Maharashtra and Gujarat, a grand pro- The Nobel laureate Indian poet Rabindra- modern bands and fluorescent lamps. Begin-
tion there spans over a week or so. Each cession of men soaked with colored water nath Tagore introduced Basanta Utsav to re- ning days before people of collect money from
major temple, housing the idols of Krishna walks through the streets with a mock alert live the ancient tradition in the school of Shan- the community to spend on the festivities.
and Radha, celebrates Holi on a differ- call that asks to take care of pots of butter tiniketan, the seat of learning he founded. A thatched hut of hay and twigs and
ent day. People throng the temples to get and milk as Krishna comes in. This refers The Basanta Utsav means Springfest. There sticks is built and then set ablaze. The next
drenched with colored water and consider to Krishnas habit of stealing butter and the boys and girls would greet the spring at day, boys go in groups to play gulal with the
it a blessing from the god. milk stored in terracotta pots from peoples this time of the year. Not only with colors but girls. And in return for playing with them,
Of particular interest is the Holi festi- homes. There is also a tradition of hanging with recital of songs, dance and hymns in a the girls extract money from the boys. Also
val in the village of Barsana, 42 km from a pot of buttermilk high up in the street. serene environment. Today Shantiniketan is devotees play gulal and dance in front of
Mathura. Radha belonged to Barsana while Men forming a human staircase try to a full-fledged university but lives up to greet the temple of Krisna dressed in the tradi-
Krishna hailed from Nandagaon. On Holi, break this pot and whoever succeeds is the spring every year with the same tradition. tional white and yellow turbans, and sing
men from Nandagaon come to Barsana to crowned the Holi king of the locality for Orissa has also traditions similar to those of devotional songs. On the last day of the fes-
celebrate Holi with the women here, who that year. All these traditions come as a Bengal. They only place the idols of Jagannath tival, hundreds of devotees take out proces-
are ready to beat them with sticks instead mock show to relive the acts of Krishna, in place of Krishna and Radha. This is because sions towards the main Krishna temple, 3
of playing with gulal. who popularised Holi in its present forms. the famous Jagannath Temple of Puri is situ- km west of the state capital, Imphal.
Date: March 5 Spring Festival of Holi, will take place this year
Venue: Starlite Pavillion, Richmond Hill, NY on March 12. The Parade will end at the Phil
Event: Holi/Phagwah Mela 2017 Rizzuto Park (Smokey Oval) where there will
be a cultural program showcasing the commu-
Indra Seet Promotions & Geeta Mandir came nitys talented artistes. The Phagwah Parade
together to present a spectacular Holi event. is a community cultural event which helps
For years now the Caribbean Indian commu- to propagate spiritual ideas of social healing,
nity has been actively celebrating the festival love, peace, forgiveness and reconciliation.
of colors in New York area with all its pomp
and gaiety. More than 30 temples and NGOs Date: March 11, 18
participated in the event which had Stars In- Venue: Stage 48th, 605 West,
ternational Band performing. 48th Street, NYC
Event: Holi.in.the.city
Date: March 12
Venue: Richmond Hill, NY New Yorks most colorful party will be held
Event: 29th Annual Phagwah Parade over two Saturdays. This ticketed event is
open to those above 21. Wearing white attire
Richmond Hills Phagwah Parade, which is a must though you can rest assured you
commemorates the much anticipated Hindu will be provided organic colors to play with.
(Photo: IANS)
HOLI Festival March 11-17, 2017 17
sure makes the skin dry by causing depletion absorbing Holi colours. This helps to seal in moisture. Within the next few days give your hair a
of moisture and also tans the skin. The skin The real problem is removal of colours af- If there is itching, add two tablespoons vin- nourishing treatment. Mix one tablespoon
can become dry and dull after playing Holi. ter playing Holi. Rinse the face with plenty of egar to a mug of water and use it as a last rinse. pure coconut oil with one teaspoon castor
Remember to apply a sunscreen 20 min- plain water and then use a cleansing cream, or This helps to reduce itching. However, if the oil. Heat and apply on the hair. Then dip a
utes before going out in the sun. Use a sun- lotion. Apply and massage it on the face. Then itching continues, and there is rash and red- towel in hot water, squeeze out the water
screen of SPF 20 and above. If your skin is wipe off with moist cotton wool. Remember ness, there may be an allergic reaction to the and wrap the hot towel around the head,
prone to pigmented patches, select a higher to cleanse the area around the eyes too, using colour. Consult a doctor as soon as possible. like a turban. Keep it on for 5 minutes. Re-
SPF. Most sunscreens have built-in moistur- a light touch. A cleansing gel helps to dissolve While washing the hair, first rinse with peat the hot towel wrap 3 or 4 times. This
izers. If your skin is very dry, first apply the the colours and facilitates their removal. plenty of plain water to wash away the dry helps the hair and scalp absorb the oil bet-
sunscreen, wait for a few minutes and then To make your own cleanser, take half a colours and tiny particles of mica. Then ap- ter. Wash your hair after an hour.
Chilly winds and rains may dampen the mood this Holi in North India
H oli, the festival of colors, is just a few
days away. People, especially in the
northern India, are all geared up for coming
The met department has predicted thun-
dershowers and dust storms over Delhi-
NCR between Thursday and Saturday. As a
western Himalayan region. A couple of
spells of light rains, and dust storms are
Due to the impact of the WD, thundery
development and dust storms are likely to
predicted over Delhi and NCR. occur at a few places over Delhi and NCR on
Monday, March 13th, when they will get a result, the mercury will dip on coming days. In the aftermath, temperature is expect- the evening of March 8.
chance to play with colors, and celebrate the According to Delhis Regional Weather ed to drop by 2 to 4 degrees on Holi. The One or two spells of rain and thunder-
festival with their loved ones. Forecast Centre (RWFC), an active western MET department has predicted minimum storms are likely to occur at many places
Chilly winds and spell of rains, however, disturbance (WD) is likely to affect north- temperature of around 11 degrees Celsius, between the evenings of March 9 and 10,
may dampen the mood of those looking for- west India from March 7 to 11. WD may and a maximum of around 24 degrees Cel- with intensity peaking on Friday, said an
ward for the festival of colors. cause widespread rain and snow over the sius on coming Monday. official of RWFC.
18 March 11-17, 2017 BOLLYwOOD
thinking in India : Prakash Jha cial media user, during a live chat session
on Twitter, asked: Was Kangana correct
about nepotism?
Konkana Sen in a still from the movie. He posted: Not entirely! She made an
impact with her sweeping statements!
Commando 2
Having won the Best Actress trophy at
the recently-held Filmfare Awards and
Screen Awards, Alias deglamorized perfor-
mance as a victim of drug abuse in Udta
Viola Davis
to be a parent to these pieces of my heart environment to my children before bring-
who were welcomed into this world with ing them into this world.
the help of the marvels of medical science. Actors Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan and
He says parenthood is an emotional yet Sidharth Malhotra are thrilled with the
well thought out decision he has taken af- new additions to the family of Karan, who
ter considering all the responsibilities and
duties that come with being one.
launched their acting career in 2012 with
his directorial Student of the Year.
Fences star Viola Davis, who won an
Oscar in the Best Supporting Actress
category, says it was only last year that she Viola flaunts her
In order to arrive at this decision, I have Farah, who has triplets with husband
Oscar win.
began to feel fully confident in her skin.
prepared myself mentally, physically, emo- Shirish Kunder through IVF, is glad Karan
My confidence took time. It really did,
tionally and logistically to ensure that my finally took her advice seriously. Best thing
to come into myself, people.com quoted
children get all the unconditional love, care to happen to you and theyll be the youngest
the 51-year-old as saying.
and attention from me and mine. people you hang out with, so alls good, said
She added: At first, I just wanted to try
I have submitted to the fact that my chil- Farah, who had children at the age of 43.
really hard to make people see that I was
pretty, that I wasnt just the drug addict
from (the 2002 drama) Antoine Fisher, so it
part of Manto,
everyone knew, but I didnt have a lot of
friends. I didnt date or do any of that stuff.
I was overweight and very, very shy.
reveals Nandita Das Davis, who grew up in extreme poverty,
added that she was definitely not a snazzy
Manto will be directed dresser and definitely didnt wear make-up.
by Nandita Das.
sympathizes with
Minister Narendra Modi, saw 63 "The polling in Uttar Pradesh
per cent polling while neighbouring passed of peacefully without any
Mirzapur recorded 62.6 per cent. untoward incident," Deputy Election
Saifullah's father'
While 61.35 per cent voting was Commissioner Vijay Dev told media
registered in Jaunpur, 63.78 per in New Delhi.
cent was reported in Chandauli and Out of total number of 535 candi
62.5 per cent in Sonebhadra, which dates, 51 were women candidates, New Delhi: Union Home Minister
is part of the Maoist belt. Due to he said. Rajnath Singh said the government
and the Lok Sabha sympathises
IndianCanadian
Pradeep Nair named Ford Foundation denied entry to US
Toronto: An Indian origin Canadian
Shuttlers Saina,
Sindhu, Prannoy
OzIndia rivalry: More business If India want to
be better than
advance in All
England
& politics than cricket Australia, let
Birmingham (England): Saina By Shivaji Sengupta
them be so on
Nehwal, P.V. Sindhu and H.S. the field, and
Prannoy advanced to the second et's go back for a moment to
not in the bank.
round of the All England Open
Badminton Championships
which began at the Barclaycard
L that wonderfully unrealistic
but romantic film, Chak De,
India! Everything that happened in decided that there has to be more
Arena here. it, did not happen in real life: except equitable distribution of monies
Meanwhile, Kidambi Srikanth, one. What Chak De exhumed was between the member countries.
Ajay Jayaram and the men's unbounded selfbelief and determi BCCI will still get more than anyone
doubles pair of Manu Attri and nation; first in the coach, and else, but less than they are getting
B. Sumeeth Reddy put up below
thence to the players. now. All the countries are on the
par performances to exit the
For India to win after the thrash same page regarding this matter.
tournament.
ing they received in the first Test by India, of course, disagrees. Not only
However, India's two biggest
333 runs was a testimony to that do they disagree, they are threaten
hopes, Saina and Sindhu won India should be more gracious, more accommodating of other
type of selfbelief and determina ing not to play ball if they do not
easily in their first round match
tion. What one heard throughout countries trying to institutionalize cricket. get the amount they are demanding.
es. Sixth seed Sindhu eased past
the preparation period, even as T hen came 1971, and Sunil himse lf became the Chief England and Australia oppose them.
Danish Mette Poulsen with a 21
India was systematically taking Manohar Gavaskar. I see him as the Administrator. Test players and One Which brings us back to the rival
10, 2111 victory in 29 minutes.
apart cricket teams from New primary ef ficient cause of India's Day International players started ry between Australia and India. It is
In the second round, the 2016
Zealand, England and Bangladesh, turnaround in cricket. Gavaskar getting paid much, much more lit not simply about cricket. It's about
Olympic silver medallist will
the talk was about India versus handed the torch over to Kapil Dev. erally crores of rupees. The Board money. As a man of Indian origin,
meet Indonesian Dinar Dyah
Australia. All that preceded was Immediately after Gavaskar's retire of Cricket Control of India (BCCI) one who has always taken pride for
Ayustine, who moved past
merely "happy prologue to the ment, Sachin Tendulkar came to became "filthy rich" with television being Indian, and as a cricket
Danish qualifier Natalia Koch
swelling act of the imperial theme." play, and with him players like Anil and other advertisement rights. All enthusiast, I feel deeply disturbed
Rohde 2119, 2220.
Yes, India versus Australia is a Kumble and Srinath; others such as this would have been wonderful by BCCI's shenanigans. They are
Eighth seed Saina battled past
majestic rivalry. According to Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid, VVS had the organization also hadn't emulating colonizers and forgotten
World No.11 and defending
Sydney Morning Herald, this rivalry Laxman, and the inimitable been led by businessmen, politi what it is to be colonized. With
champion Nozomi Okuhara of
ranks higher than the Ashes Virendra Sehwag followed. By cians, and tycoons. BCCI became money, they crudely think they can
Japan 2115, 2114 in 38 min
(England versus Australia). Each 2001, thirty years after Gavaskar unilateral, arrogant and began to tame every cricketing country in
utes. Saina will face German
team has been losing on the oppo broke into the scene with 774 runs dominate their terms all over world the world. Well, it always doesn't
qualifier Fabienne Deprez in the
nent's field since 2004, when Virat in just four Tests in his very first cricket by making money its prime work out that way. The Indians
next round. In the men's singles
Kohli, the present Indian captain, test series, Indian cricket was final mover. have until April to respond to the
category, only Prannoy managed
was 14 years old. ly in its renaissance. It never looked The BCCI reasoning was simple: ICC. Australia's opposition to India
to progress to the second round.
But rivalry comes with a price. To back. Cricket became immensely since they provide most of the is justified. India should be more
Prannoy defeated China's Qiao
understand that we have to recall popular. money for world cricket, they ought gracious, more accommodating of
Bin 1721, 2220, 2119 in an
what Indian Test cricket was like With popularity comes money. A to get most of the receipts and roy other countries trying to institu
excruciating men's sing les
when I was 14. Then, India lost to Bengal businessman, Jagmohan alties. India, though, is still not the tionalize cricket. It's a good sign
match that lasted an hour and
nearly everybody; and not just in Dalmiya, also a cricket enthusiast, undisputed champion on the play that the Supreme Court is now
22 minutes. Next, Prannoy will
cricket; in every sport, except hock was watching all this. He quickly ing field, though they are close to obliging BCCI to fall in line. If they
face Chinese seventh seed Tian
ey (in which they had also started got inside the coterie of cricket the top. However, their posturing in want to be better than Australia, let
Houwei, who registered a 2119,
losing). To be an Indian sports administrators, and, due to his deft the world arena is like that of a Big them be so on the field, and not in
2118 win over Tommy Sugiarto
of Indonesia. enthusiast in those days was financial planning, expert handling Brother. Recently, the rest of the the bank.
fraught with disappointment. of the media as clients of cricket, ICC (International Cricket Council) Let's return cricket to cricketers!
TheSouthAsianTimes.info US AFFAIRS March 11-17, 2017 27
W
hen on April 6, 2016
John LaValle, 48, the
then and current
Suf folk County Republican
Chairperson announced at a Long
Island Trump political rally that
he was endorsing the controver
sial billionaire for the GOP
Presidential nomination, many
leaders from both the Democrat
and Republican parties were said
to be in a state of shock. While it
is rare to have them agree on any
polit ical matter, concerning
LaValles endorsement of Trump, John LaValle became Trump surrogate during the presidential campaign.
who came to Long Island that day class throughout this eastern Americas own energy resources, incredibly taken by what I saw. Trumps direction, LaValle stated,
to thank LaValle (as well as sever Long Island County of one and a his promise to remove literally His kindness, his friendliness, his As the reports began to come
al other Republican leaders) for half million citizens was that this thousands of useless and burden warmth, and his clearly genuine over the television of Trump win
his support, they were in full selfinflicted wound would all some regulations off the backs of concern for the feeling of others ning state after state, including
accord. but end LaValles chances of win businessmen and women, his be they his chauf feurs, body the swing states of Florida, Iowa
It is strange to see Democrats ning the Republican nomination plan to secure our borders, and guards, children of people and Ohio, the incredible realiza
and Republicans agree on any for County Executive in 2019. his commitment to re build involved in the campaign and tion that he was going to be elect
thing. I guess it takes a maverick That nomination, which would Americas infrastructure, he stat campaign staff members left a ed president beg an to set in
like me to get that kind of bipar have pitted him against twoterm ed. very strong impression upon me. throughout the large crowd of his
tisan agreement, LaValle, whom incumbent Demo crat Steve On these and other domestic I was just hoping for the opportu increasingly euphoric supporters.
I interviewed last week in his Bellone in the general election, and foreign policy issues, LaValle nity to become a part of the It was a magical night for them
of fice in the Suf folk County was w ide ly considered to be noted that he found that the over campaign and help him become all. And it was great night for the
Republican Headquarters, stated, LaValles for the asking, prior to whe lming majority of president. future of America.
wearing a broad smile on his the Trump endorsement. Republicans, many independents Trump was to give him that Trumps victory that nig ht
face. LaValle, now no longer smiling, and even more than a few opportunity. In late April, he con might also well prove to be great
Actually, it was little secret told me that while he was well Democrats agreed with Trump, tacted LaValle, asking him if he for the political future of LaValle.
inside the political doors of both aware of this widespread biparti leading him to believe that his would be interested in working With his contentious decision to
part ies in Suf folk that many san belief that he had committed support of his candidacy was for the campaign under the title, endorse Trump fully vindicated,
Republican and Democrat leaders a major polit ical blunder in anything but Quixotic. Because Trump Surrogate. For LaValle, it LaValle has reemerged as the
were offering the same supposed endorsing Trump, he possessed he was right on the issues, and was an easy decision to make. I overwhelming favorite to win,
near certainties on three inter no second thoughts at the time because as a totally independent answered yes in an instant, he should he seek it, the Republican
connected predictions. The first about his decision. The stakes nonpolitician and extraordinarily recalled. In this new role, LaValle nomination for County Executive
was that Trump, who was run for America were too high for me successful businessman, he was appeared on more than 150 in 2019. In addition, it has been
ning virtually without any sup to worry about my own political the right person to articulate and cable and regular network news speculated in several New York
port from the national party future. I was looking for the can champion those posit ions, I shows airing from the New York news outlets that Trump, with
establishment, had little chance didate who had the g reatest became convinced even during area. On each, he told me, his goal whom LaValle is rumored to still
of w inning the Republican potential to become a great presi the most challenging days of the was to serve as a representative be in contact, is considering him
Presidential nomination. The sec dent. Based on the domestic and campaign that Donald Trump of Trump, with whom he soon for an ambassadorship to one of
ond was that even if by an foreign policy positions he pro would be the next President of found himse lf speaking on a the 26 Caribbean nations.
extreme long shot Trump won posed and the strong, sincere and the United States, he said. weekly basis. There can only be While LaValle was reluctant to
the GOP nomination, he had even unapologetic way he proposed LaValle added that in addition one Donald Trump, he stated. discuss his political future, he did
less of a chance of defeating the them, that candidate for me, I to being impressed by the poli But even he can only be in only acknowledge that his involve
then certain Democrat nominee concluded, could only be one per cies and positions of Trump, he one place at one time. So when ment in the Trump presidential
Hillary Clinton, who was beating son: Donald Trump, he told me. was also impressed by what he called to, it was my honor and campaign has improved his polit
him handily in almost every gen The foreign policy positions, perceived to be the future presi privilege to serve as his surro ical standing in the county. When
eral election poll. LaValle cited included dents positive personal qualities. gate. I asked him to be more specific,
Their third area of agreement Trumps,commitment to rebuild I originally endorsed Mr. Trump, LaValle performed that role he stated, smiling broadly once
was that by endorsing Trump, our military, and, directly related whom prior to the event in Long from the day he accepted again, Since the election I have
LaValle a father of 3 young boys to that, provide significantly Island I had met only once about Trumps of fer, up through the sensed that family members,
and an attorney, who prior to his improved medical care and other 3 years ago, because I believed August Republican Convention, friends and political associates
se lect ion as Suf folk County needed services for our military the solutions he proposed to, in where he also served as a New have been more inclined to listen
Republican Chair in 2009, had veterans, totally de feat and his own words, make America York State Trump delegate, up to my advice be it concerning
served as the Supervisor of the destroy Islamic terrorism and great again would do just that, until the night of the election political or personal matters.
town of Brookhaven from 2,000 rebuild our historic relationship he said. itself, November 8th. As well they should.
2005, and before that as a City with Israel, our ally mistreated Yet, he continued, I as I got to Describing that night, when,
Councilman from the same town for the past eight years. know him on a personal level the standing alongside thousands of Robert Golomb is a nationally
from 19962000 had just suf LaValle said he was equally day of and the several days cheering Trump supporters in the and internationally published
fered a fatal selfinflicted political impressed by Trumps domestic following the endorsement, I got main ballroom of Manhattans columnist. Email him at
wound. policies. I was extremely excited an inside look at the private side Hilton Hotel, he watched the tide MrBob347@aol.com and follow
The consensus of the political by Mr. Trumps pledge to unleash of Mr. Trump. And I became of the election results swaying in him on twitter@robertgolomb
28 March 11-17, 2017 HUMOR TheSouthAsianTimes.info
Laughter is the Best Medicine Wei because her intense stare at the camera
during a particular TV show caused him
"spiritual damage". I can see how the attrac
tive Ms Zhao could cause any male viewer to
have significant nonspiritual thoughts. The
courts eventually declined to hear the case,
although if they had any brains they would
have taken a week off to inspect Ms Zhao's
videos as part of their "due diligence"
process.
Still, I can see why courts in Asia refuse to
pay compensation to viewers aggrieved by
shockingly bad television. TV companies
would basically be paying cash to every
viewer every day for every show. And how
ever much they paid, it wouldn't be enough.
Yet despite the rash of emotional distress
lawsuits, let's remember that many claims
fail. A colleague forwarded me a report
about a woman who found her image was
used without permission in a Chipotle
restaurant promotion and asked for $2 bil
lion. The courts recently ruled against her,
but I think it was worth trying, just in case
the judge had had a nice lunch and gave her
a token $100 million to say sorry for the
by Mahendra Shah thumbs down.
Meanwhile, if any judges are reading this,
Mahendra Shah is an architect by education, entrepreneur by profession, artist and humorist, cartoonist and writer by hobby. He has been how much can I get for the emotional dis
recording the plight of the immigrant Indians for the past many years in his cartoons. Hailing from Gujarat, tress of having a sarcastic comment misun
he lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. derstood? Millions, right?
TheSouthAsianTimes.info ASTROLOGY March 11-17, 2017 29
MARCH 1117, 2017 ANNUAL PREDICTIONS: FOR THOSE BORN IN THIS WEEK
ARIES: Pending proposals will get imple LIBRA: Before refusing a promotion 11th March, 2017 would be a period of success and happi
mented with the help of seniors. An offer, look the things from longterm Influenced by number 2 and the Moon. ness, as you would make major gains. You
impulsive behaviour brings disappoint perspective. Friends and family mem You are active, smart, energetic, responsi would easily outsmart your competitors
ment at family front. Better to control it to save bers would encourage to work harder. Put your ble, systematic and a friendly person. You because of you better skills and aptitude.
all. Monetary gains are likely to remain below extra money at a safer place promising to return always aim high and you are not satisfied Investments during this period would also
expectations. Dont forget to take some time for you on time. A special message from until you achieve your goals. You are help yield handsome gains. New proposals for
love partner. Unwanted thoughts could occupy beloved/lover lifts spirits. Cataract patients must ful and loyal to your friends but you need joint venture would be alluring, but a part
mind thus keeping you distressed. Vacations avoid overexposure to sunlight. Planning for to check your tendency to behave stubborn nership is definitely not on your cards this
are at a premium, if you consider them. You traveling requires advice of persons whom you and fickleminded at times. This year you year. You would make new friends through
might face problem to sell your property as travel with. Selling a plot might be profitable as are asked to handle additional responsibili old ones. T he months of September,
marketing might not be correct. If possible property rates tend to rise sooner. Ef forts to ties at work. This would put you in good January and April would be highly signifi
dont waste your valuable time on unproduc defend your identity would pave the way for books of your employer and go a long way cant.
tive work. your future success. in bringing you rewards. You would work
TAURUS: A missed opportunity would SCORPIO: Make sure you dont neglect on new ideas, which would he lp you 15th March, 2017
hard to regain especially at professional subordinates by giving an ear to them to increase your income. Spouse expected to Influenced by number 6 and the planet
front. Arguments with children could enable yourself to find valuable sugges bring in some thrilling news later this year. Venus. You are energetic, practical, system
put some mental pressure. However, dont tions. Enjoying a picnic with family will not only Distant journeys, maybe overseas for some atic, methodical and a generous person.
strain yourself beyond a point because certain bring joy but also help in clearing misunder would be highly pleasurable and rewarding. You are fond of charity and social work and
issues are best when left untouched. New con standings. Successful execution of brilliant ideas The months of September, December and you frequently associate with likeminded
tracts might appear lucrative but might fail to would help in earning financial profits. You find April seem to be highly beneficial. people to support the noble cause, but you
bring desired gains. Romantic relationship suf pleasure and enjoy ecstasies of love in the arms need to control your tendencies to behave
fers as you neglect the feelings of partner. Even of partner. A continuous positive thinking gets 12th March, 2017 impatient, whimsical and jealous at times.
meditation & yoga might fail to enhance men rewarded as you succeed in whatever you do Governed by number 3 and the planet This year businessmen are likely to diversi
tal toughness. Your travel plans could not during this week. A systematic approach to plan Jupiter. You are a practical, energetic, reli fy into new and more profitable avenues.
workout as you will be visiting a beastly place. your journey will benefit you in future. Your per gious, brilliant, sober and an optimistic per Few unexpected trips would be taken this
Mortgaging your plot is not right for you, crisis sonal loan plans for property could be in son. You are always looking for a change year. You could also be traveling to an
may arise. Hidden enemies might sabotage progress. You will be successful in acquiring new and you adapt to new technologies quickly exotic destination of your choice. Health
your legal matters. skills to discover more about yourself. than others. You are efficient and sincere, however would need more attention than
GEMINI: A very good week to apply for SAGITTARIUS: Good week for imple but you need to check your tendency to before. Some exhilarating news from your
overseas job. Charming nature and menting new plans and ventures. You behave jealous and stubborn at times. This children later in the year would boost up
pleasant personality would make you are likely to hear a good news from year sharing personal and secretive infor your spirits. Investment would be prof
the attraction of family function. A very suc close relatives. Control your expenses and avoid mation would not be in your best interest. itable, but do not put all your money at one
cessful week as far as monetary position is con being too lavish in your spending. Behave proper The atmosphere at office would be compet place. The month of August, October, March
cerned. Love journey is likely to be short but ly while going out with love companion. Make itive and would require you to handle and May will be eventful and result orient
sweet. Health would remain fine despite a busy sure you avoid everything that af fects your important jobs with more responsibility. ed.
schedule but dont take it for granted. Some health. It is important to delve into your desires You can look forward to new friendships
arrangements before you go on an overseas before you plan to travel. Want to buy a property and even a romantic alliance through work 16th March, 2017
trip will save your time, ef fort and give you at seaside, go through the safety measures. It will related projects. You need to control your Governed by number 7 and the planet
peace of mind. Your dream for new house be in your interest not to give importance to use mood and erratic behaviour; otherwise you Neptune. You are af fectionate, charming,
might be full filed now. Friendship tool would less things. are like ly to disappoint many people sober, courageous, original and an honest
benefit friend by removing the flaws in behav CAPRICORN: Traveling brings new over around you. Distant journeys, maybe over person. You are highly courageous and
iour. seas business opportunities. You are seas for some would fetch favorable fond of accepting challenges, but you need
CANCER: Time to equip yourself with likely to plan a short trip with family. returns. The months of November, January to control your tendency to behave impa
strong communication skills to You are likely to earn monetary gains through and June will prove to be significant. tient, timid and short temper at times. This
enhance career prospects. Unexpected various sources. Proposing might benefit, as is going to be an extraordinary year for
visit by old friend could give you a pleasant chances of succeeding in love are high. You need 13th March, 2017 you, which would promise you financial
surprise. Increase in income from past invest to keep patience as your continuous effort cou Ruled by number 4 and the planet growth and prosperity. This is also going to
ment is foreseen. Search for a true romantic pled with common sense & understanding brings Uranus. You are generous, peace loving, be a rewarding period for workingwomen.
friend might end this week. Mental alertness success. Pack your bags and be ready for an dashing, systematic, disciplined, and cre Your income would rise, but you would also
would enable to solve a tricky problem. If amazing holiday. Lifestyle home is what you are ative in nature. You are very hardworking spend more than necessary on luxuries and
youre planning a vacation, be sure to consider looking for? Things begin to move in your favour and possess an ability to impress others other comforts. Romance and new alliances
your work does not effect. Deals on commer as you find people supporting you. with your intelligence, but you need to con look likely for the unattached. Your seniors
cial property can tend to be at full boom. Your AQUARIUS: Time to be a good commu trol your tendency to be extravagant, reck and coworkers are likely to give you anx
creativity would immensely help in doing well nicator & natural negotiator to enable less and moody at times. This year you ious moments at times. Health of your
in life. yourself to tackle the pressure of a would find yourself changing plans more spouse would cause concern and anxiety.
LEO: Promotions and monetary benefits highly responsible position. Evening enjoyed than usual and decision on certain fronts The months of October, December, March
for dedicated professionals. Family with family and close relatives brings immense would not be easy. Some changes in friend and August will be highly significant.
members appreciate the changes made pleasure. Property dealings would materialize ship also seem to take place later this year.
in & around the house. Indications of earning helping in bringing fabulous gains. If possible, Frequent and fruitful journeys would be 17th March, 2017
financial profits through commissions, divi spend quality time with love partner to know & undertaken. A property transaction or Ruled by number 8 and the planet Saturn.
dends or royalties. You enjoy a lovely time as understand each other better. Encourage mind to acquiring a new vehicle during this period You are creative, active, confidant, intelli
Cupid is on your side this week. Creative hob be receptive to positive emotions like love, hope, seems likely. Visit to a religious place or gent and an artistic person. Your strong
bies are likely to keep you relaxed. Weekend faith, sympathy and optimism to enjoy a sound blessings from a spiritual person would be determination always keeps you ahead of
getaway to enjoy pubs and clubs is on your health. When preparing to travel with a family be high on your agenda. Your outgoing nature others and makes you popular in your sur
way. Getting your dream home will be the humble and patient. If you are shifting to another will work to your advantage as you gain rounding, but you need to restrain your ten
greatest pleasure for you. You will be success rental house then go through the contract papers favours and benefits from important peo dencies towards being erratic, stubborn
ful in cutting yourself away from old ideas & carefully. You will have to save yourself from the ple. The months of October, February and and jealous at times. This year your self
beliefs that have outlived their utility/purpose. conspiracy hatched by enemies. July will bring prosperity. confidence would be high and you would
VIRGO: Subordinates/coworkers would PISCES: You are likely to encounter some make financial deals, which would bring
be very helpful. An old friend makes a challenging situations at workplace. Some 14th March, 2017 your extra cash. New alliances and partner
pleasant visit later in the week. changes that you might make to your Ruled by number 5 and the planet ships for some. Speculation would prove to
Important people will be ready to finance any looks could annoy family members. Better to do Mercury. You are highly intelligent, diplo be rewarding and longterm investment is
thing that has a special class to it. Love com things that would please them. Financial problems matic, highly business oriented, accommo recommended. Long pending legal disputes
panion will be eager to meet you during this could affect constructive thinking. Disclosure of dating, dashing and kindhearted individual. would be sorted out bringing relief to your
week. With a positive outlook & confidence, secret affair might create some problems at love You are a very social person and your fami mind. Blessing from a saintly person would
you succeed in impressing people around you. front. You are likely to suffer from stress & ten ly and friends have a priority in your life, provide solace and mental comfort. Stay
A short trip with lavishing experiences is the sions in this week. Reduce your property loans but you need to curb your tendencies to away from strangers and avoid spending on
right thing for you. Purchasing home loan is otherwise you will be in great trouble. You unnec behave reckless, vindictive and moody at others. Health needs extra care. T he
not the right decision for you. You might face essarily waste time by trying to change the will of times. This year you should try to focus months of September, January and May
opposition and rivalry in personal situations. a friend without changing mind. your energy into professional endeavors. It would prove to be result oriented.
30 March 11-17, 2017 SPIRITUAL AWARENESS TheSouthAsianTimes.info
L
ife is filled with many chal to change their seats. When
lenges and sometimes, under they tried to sleep, the smell
pressure, people crack. They was intolerable, and it would
feel they can no longer stand all moo throughout the night,
the problems facing them. waking them all up.
life is harder
at
find th pend time
Sometimes people feel they have After the week passed, the
it a n d
e lose l we s
the worst job in the world. Others woman returned to the wise
n ti
feel they have the worst health man and began shouting at him,
rrib le , un til w
lth i s b a d u
h an we are.
o ea t
job is h e think our h ndition r side.
problems; they feel no one could be What have you done? I came to
k ou r rs e co e
We thin an income. W people in wo er on the oth
plagued with as many physical you to make things better and
problems as they have. At some now I am more miserable than
t d n be
time in our lives, we feel that no before. Your advice did not work. withou spital and fin e grass is gree so much easier if we
one could have things as bad as we He thought for a moment and
in a ho ways feel th accept that God knows what is best
have. asked, Do you have any chickens?
W e al an income. for us. If we examined the times in
There is a folk tale about a wise Yes, she said. We think our health is bad until our lives that we interfered with
man who lived in a forest. People He told her, Take them into the and try one we spend time in a hospital and Gods will, we may have discovered
would travel far and wide to seek hut with you for a week. She did more thing. Take the cow and find people in worse condition than that we messed things up terribly
him out for answers to their prob not understand how this would the chickens out of your hut. Then, we are. We think our family mem on our own and prayed to God to
lems. One day, a woman came to help, but since he was a wise man, come back to me in a week. bers are bad, until we find our return things to the way they were.
him for advice. and everybody in her village found The woman was fed up with his selves alone and realize how diffi Next time we think things are
He said, My dear, what can I do his advice helpful, she thought she advice but thought she would give cult life is without them. We always going badly and that God is not
for you? would give this a try. it one last chance. She returned feel the grass is greener on the properly listening to us, we should
She said, Things are terrible at When she returned home, she home and pulled the cow out of the other side. sit back, take a deep breath, and
home. I live in a small hut with my collected all the chickens from the house. She took the chickens out The woman learned that what relax. We should give God a chance
husband and two children. The hut backyard and moved them into the and returned them to the backyard. she thought was bad was actually to let things happen and observe
is barely large enough for the four house. For the next week, the chick A week later, the woman not so bad when she saw how patiently. We will find when all is
of us. I wanted a bigger house but ens were flying around the hut, returned to the wise man. much worse things could be. It is said and done that God worked
my husband is not doing well at landing on everything and making How are things now? he asked. human nature to think that every things out for the best in the end. If
work and cannot afford anything a mess of the place. Thank you so much! You are body else has it so good, and it is we reflect, we would find that if
larger. As times are bad, my hus After a week, she returned and truly wise. Since I removed the cow only we who are suffering. God had listened to our complaints
bands father lost his job, so his cried, in tears, You must be crazy. and chickens from the hut, I feel so We think we know what is best and let us do things our own way,
parents had to move in with us. We Your advice is terrible. It is impossi much happier. Things have become for us. How many times have we things may not have been in our
were already crowded before, but ble to live in the hut now. The cow so peaceful. tried to intervene with our two best interest at all.
now with six of us living together turns around and knocks into us. T he wise man smiled. T he cents to find that when we tried to Happiness is a state of mind. If
in that small space, it is unbearable. The chickens fly all around the hut. woman returned home and lived change our situation, we made we think that God is not doing
I cannot take it anymore. I feel like My inlaws are always choking happily with her husband, her chil things worse? T hen, we regret what is best for us, we will always
screaming! from the smell and complaining dren, and her inlaws. what we have done and wish we be unhappy. If we would realize
T he wise man thought for a about how bad it is living with us. This story illustrates that we are could make things go back to the that we are living according to
moment and asked, Do you have a The children find chicken feathers often unhappy with our situation way they were. what God wishes for us, and that
cow? falling into their food. My husband until we find that things could On the spiritual path, one of the God is giving us what is best for us,
The woman said, Yes, we do. is constantly fighting with me over always be worse. We think our job lessons we need to learn is accept we would always be happy and
He said, I advise you to bring the the living conditions in our home is horrible, until we lose it and find ing the will of the Lord. Life would content.
WHERE IS GOD?
ne of the questions I find to what saints and mystics have after this physical life. wants to distract us with thoughts, meditation each day will help us