Indian

Community | 11
Yogathan in New Zealand

July 22, 2011 Volume 3, No. 7

www.iwk.co.nz

New Zealands first Indian weekend magazine

For Free distributioN

The Pulse of Kiwi Indians Fiji | 21

Fiji to try new approach to tourism

Bollywood | 22
Hrithik's Agneepath Look revealed

Communitys heartwarming gesture to

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Indian

New Zealand

Communitys heart-warming gesture to Sir Anand

Dev NaDkarNI
The New Zealand Indian Central Association along with the Pukekohe Indian Association hosted a heartwarming function to felicitate Governor General of New Zealand Rt Hon Sir Anand Satyanand, at the end of his role as the Queens nineteenth representative of Aotearoa New Zealand. Hundreds from the community gathered at the well-appointed venue in Pukekohe on the evening of July 9 to accord the well-loved Governor General and his wife Lady Susan Satyanand a fond farewell to remember. New Zealands first Governor General of Indian and Pacific heritage was born and raised in Auckland. His father Mutyala Satyanand, a medical doctor, and mother Tara migrated here from Fiji in 1911. Sir Anand was born on July 22, 1944. It is fitting that this tribute appears in the Indian Weekender issue that coincides with his birthday. Initially, he tried to follow his fathers

vocation enrolling at Otagos medical school but soon gave up, deciding to pursue instead a career in law back in the city of his birth, graduating with a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Auckland in 1970. He worked as a lawyer for the next 12 years, initially at a law firm and then as a barrister for the Crown Law Office. He served on the Council of the Auckland District Law Society from 1979 until his appointment as a judge of the District Court of New Zealand in 1982. In 1995 he was appointed an ombudsman and he served two five-year terms. Sir Anand assumed the office of the Governor General on August 23, 2006. Following the changes to the honours system announced by Prime Minister John Key on 8 March 2009, the Queen approved Sir Anands redesignation from a PCNZM (Principal Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit) to a GNZM (Knight Grand Companion) on March 27, 2009.

New Zealands first Governor General of Indian and Pacific heritage was born and raised in Auckland. His father Mutyala Satyanand, a medical doctor, and mother Tara migrated here from Fiji in 1911. Sir Anand was born on July 22, 1944.
Speaking at the event in Pukekohe, Sir Anand acknowledged many from the Indian community with whom his paths had crossed during his eventful career as successful lawyer, judge, ombudsman, Governor General and above all, as a community leader a wellloved man of the people. Among those present were a number of people who have been closely associated with Sir Anand for decades, some of them even from his primary school days. For many of the guests, the occasion was a long, nostalgic walk down memory lane. He personally acknowledged his familys long term friendships the Indian community: he mentioned the Giridhars, Bhakta Das and Saroj Prasad among many others, narrating little incidents that seemed deeply embedded in his memory in a fond way. Two of these were about how Pukekohegrown garlic found their way to Nausori in Fiji as part of a passengers baggage and about guessing games that were played about the colour of the turban that long time associate Ganges Singh would wear to an occasion. He said that connections with the Indian community went back all those decades and those were reaffirmed when he was accorded an emotional felicitation on his appointment as Governor General. India as part of my heritage was cemented on my first day as Governor General with garlands and a tilak from the Indian community, he said. Over the 200 years that Indian have been living in New Zealand, the community had made many contributions, Sir Anand said. He recalled his trip with former NZICA President Ratilal Champaneri to the small town of Milton in Otago to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the discovery of gold in New Zealand, at which a statue of discoverer Gabriel Reeds statue was unveiled. Though it was Reed who discovered the ore, it was an Indian, Edward Peters by name, who had pointed it to him, Sir Anand said. Peters had come to New Zealand under what could politely be termed as informal immigration, he said to laughter from the audience. A museum in Lawrence in central Otago had an Edward Peters Corner, he added. The Indian community had flowered and matured over the years, he said. In the 1970s

Remembering a dear mate

Anand Nagin Lala went to school with Sir never thought his in Ponsonby. He said he Governor classmate would one day be the Mr Lala remembered Sir Anands General. , who father, known popularly as Dr Saty sonby. ran a surgery in Pon a very Sir Anands mother Taraben was er itional Indian lady, though his fath trad elf were very kiwi, and the Sir Anand hims Mr Lala said. id He remembered Sir Anand as a plac but bright in his boy, not much into sports studies.

Indian Weekender | July 22, 2011 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian
there were fewer than 10000, now there are more than 100,000 making Indians the second largest ethnic Asian group. The participation of Indians is huge. When I joined law, Indian lawyers could be counted on one hand now there is a whole roomful and more, he added. While being Governor General, he had the occasion to attend several functions with an Indian dimension throughout the country, he said. Among these he recalled Diwali in many parts of the country, the diamond jubilee of the Wellington Indian Sports Club, the 85th anniversary of NZICA in Palmerston North and the NZICA Womens Conference in Wellington in 2008 that Lady Susan inaugurated. Touching upon relations between Indian and New Zealand, Sir Anand acknowledged the current negotiations on the free trade agreement and the commitment of Prime Ministers John Key and Manmohan Singh. He said there was real substance in the negotiations and that the relationship between the two countries was becoming closer in a substantive way. Sir Anand described the Pravasi Bharatiya Award that was presented to him at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi was one of his most cherished. While it made him proud of his Indian heritage, it also reflected the greatness of a country like New Zealand where it was possible for a person of Indian, whose grandparents and parents were migrants, could stand proud with achievements as lawyer, judge, ombudsman and finally as Governor General. He said he looked forward to restore the spontaneity and relative anonymity that comes out of stepping down from office. He was carrying a multitude of memories with him, he added, many of these were shared closely with the Indian community. NZICA General Secretary Raj Thandi said, Sir Anand is a great New Zealander and distinguished community leader. He is a fine example of a New Zealander who made good through hard work and a commitment to realising high goals. The Association was very proud to honour Sir Anand and his wife, Lady Susan. A special plaque, designed by myself was presented to Sir Anand that symbolised the respect that he deserves. About 200 members and guests, including representatives of the New Zealand Government attended the function. Sir William Birch, a former New Zealand Minister of Finance, Ramesh Patel, a New Zealand Olympian, Judge Ajit Singh, Auckland City Councillor Des Morrison and Member of Parliament Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi also attended the event among several other community luminaries.

New Zealand

A moving, personal tribute

Long time associate, friend and legal luminary Thakorbhai Parbhu spoke engagingly about Sir Anand at the evening, peppering his address with little known anecdotes that revealed many biographical and personal facets of the Governor General. Excerpts: Your connection with the Indian community goes back to your late Father Dr Sati as he was affectionately called. He practised at 201 Ponsonby Road. He originally came from Fiji and on completion of his medical degree was supported by the Indian Association for residency in New Zealand. He was one of our first Indian doctors in New Zealand. You are the by-product of a good family. Your late father and your mother Taraben were respected stalwarts and great supporters of the Indian community. You married a lovely girl Lady Susan, a Legal Executive from the law firm of Cairns Slane & Co. and you both raised your lovely family. My personal reflections over all these years are the dinner parties at our place, your place and your parents place; too many to mention. You and Lady Susan attended by grand-daughter Shailas first birthday at May Road Hall. The hockey game you organised with the Justice Department and my tea, our frequent meetings in the Law Library and the dinner at your unit in Freemans Bay with David Lange who lived around the corner in Wellington Street are still fresh in my mind. I try to keep in touch with your movements at the local gymnasium which you attend with our mutual friend Norman Elliott. Your nature, disposition and character, your amiable attitude, your ability to relate to all ethnicity, your friendship and contact with people and organisations has made you a likeable and acceptable person in fitting with your high office. You have been a great bridge builder in New Zealand with the various communities. Your dignity in difficult circumstances has stood you well. In the position that you have attained you have brought honour and respect to the Indian community not only in New Zealand but throughout the world. You have walked into the pages of New Zealand history.

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Indian

New Zealand

Employers must keep staff

The Department of Labour is reminding employers that the law now requires them to keep signed written employment agreements for all their staff. Since 1 July all employers are required to keep signed copies of employment agreements or current terms and conditions for all employees, or they may face a penalty. Employment agreements are required for all employees no matter when they started work, says Annie Newman, the Departments Acting Chief Adviser of Employment Relations. This affects all employees including those hired on a verbal agreement or employees who do not have current written agreements in place, says Ms Newman. Having a clearly written employment agreement helps reduce the risk of misunderstandings and there are some provisions that must be included in employment agreements, she says. They must include the name of the employer and employee, a description of the work to be performed, the place of employment, times the employee is to work, the wages or salary, and an explanation of services available for solving problems. Its the employers responsibility to maintain and keep an up to date copy of each employees agreement and provide a copy of the agreement if an employee requests it, Ms Newman says. The Department of Labour has developed an Employment Agreement Builder to help employers through this process. Failure to ensure an employment agreement is in place for all employees may result in a labour inspector taking a penalty action against an employer. This involves a seven-day notice period to rectify the breach and if this isnt complied with then penalties may be sought in the Employment Relations Authority of up to $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for companies.

Wi-Fi expansion for Auckland

Aucklanders and visitors will soon be able to enjoy enhanced and expanded Wi-Fi services, offering more wireless coverage and faster access to the internet across central Auckland and its fringes. Auckland Council has entered a partnership with Tomizone, Australasias largest Wi-Fi services provider, which will see network expansion start immediately. The expansion will offer economic development benefits to the region and provide an important service to visitors to Rugby World Cup and beyond. With 85,000 visitors expected during Rugby World Cup and more than 200,000 expected from next years cruise season alone, visitors to Auckland will be able to step off their plane or ship and immediately access information about Auckland. For Aucklanders, it means more and better wireless internet access for portable devices such as iPads, says Len Brown. The Wi-Fi zone will expand into areas such as Kingsland, the entire length of Queen Street, Britomart and Queens Wharf, lower Parnell, northern Ponsonby Road, Mt Eden Village, Onehunga, key rugby training areas and selected transport hubs around Auckland. The network will remain in place following Rugby World Cup and continue to expand to other parts of Auckland with re-investment of profits from the service. Auckland Council will retain control of the content, which gives it a flexible platform for the future, says the Mayor. Service will be offered at a guaranteed discount to benchmarked market rates, with free access provided to a number of websites offering information about public services, RWC activities, tourism and transport services. This enhanced network coverage will be attractive to residents and our international visitors who want to use their Wi-Fi gadgets to roam around the city, says Tomizone Executive Director Steve Simms. Many of our visitors will want to use their roaming account from providers such as Skype, iPass and Boingo which they can do on this network.

Diversity forum will focus on media

A multi-media study about Paul Henry and Hone Harawira is being presented by Wellingtons Centre for Applied Crosscultural Research at next months 2011 New Zealand Diversity forum jointly hosted by the Human Rights Commission and the Hamilton Multicultural Services Trust. Its work examines the intense public arguments around comments made by prominent media figures in 2010, such as Henrys deliberate mispronunciation of an international dignitarys name and then repeatedly laughing about it, and Harawiras alleged racist comments about Pakeha. The forum will also include activities that tackle race relations priorities identified in this years Race Relations Report, and feature the presentation of the Annual Diversity awards. A parallel youth forum is being held at the same time. The New Zealand Diversity Forum 2011 is being held at Hamilton on 21-22 August Also on the programme on Sunday at 3.305.00 pm is a forum on Community Media and Diversity hosted by the Community Access Radio Waikato Trust. Attendance on Sunday and for individual forums is free. If you are attending for half a day or more on the Monday the registration fee is $50.

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Indian

New Zealand

KK takes Auckland by storm

Dev NaDkarNI
his seemingly boundless energy typified by the springy feet with which he traversed all corners of the performing stage was a great hit with the predominantly young audience young in age and young at heart. The audience sang with him, danced to his singing and seemed to enjoy every moment of his renditions, his nuances, his antics and his jokes. The start itself was a fairly fast number, Tere Pyar mein, the title song from his album Bas Ek Pal. He maintained this clipping-paced tempo throughout the concert. The audience could be forgiven for wondering where his unending energy was coming from. KK, who has always chosen to maintain a somewhat lower profile than his Bollywood singing start compatriots, has sung so many hits but many of them are not immediately associated with his name by listeners. So when he sung them, a common refrain that ran through the audience which knew the song but were not quite sure who sang it was, Hey, I didnt know that was a KK song! The singers displayed his versatility in the sheer breadth of his repertoire. From the contemplative Awaarapan Banjaaraapan through the foot-tapping peppiness of Its the time to disco to the emotional Alvida, KK covered the gamut of genres, pleasing his fans to bits. For much of the second half, the audience was on its feet, often surging toward the stage to be close to the star performer in true rock concert style. Those scenes will undoubtedly be imprinted in the minds of the audience just as the music will ring in its ears for a long time. In his twenty-fourth number of the performance, KK asked the audience to turn on their mobile phones and hold them in air with a swinging motion in accompaniment to the rhythm of the hit Pal rahe ya na rahe pal from his popular Pyaar Ke Pal album. It was a rare sight like a thousand fireflies swaying rhythmically in the supercharged air of the venue. The romance and pain that KK brought out in the beginning of the second half through his song Tadap tadap ke from the film Hum dil de chuke sanam, singing with only the piano for accompaniment, was memorable. Expectedly, the show concluded with the song Alvida. KK and his impressive band carried the audience every minute of the show in what will undoubtedly be a memorable evening for many.

Popular Bollywood songster KK stayed true to the well-earned appellation of Mesmeriser when he cast a veritable spell on the delirious audience at Manukaus Telstraclear Events Centre on the evening of July 9. Before the show, the audience had no clue what was coming. At the end of it, they found that they were part of a history, which they will talk about for years to come, said Sudeshna Chatterjee, director of Sangeet Limited, the organisers of the successful show. KK singlehandedly mesmerised the audience for more than 3 hours, unlike other similar big-ticket artistes performances that are often interspersed by sideshows of accompanying talents or local artistes. KKs ability to instantaneously connect with his audience and

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Indian

New Zealand

Dev NaDkarNI

Change of guard at Bank of Baroda

RWC Roadshow coming to Auckland

Auckland is the last pit stop in a journey up the length of New Zealand to give Kiwis a taste of the excitement of Rugby World Cup 2011 (RWC 2011). The RWC 2011 Roadshow kicked-off in Bluff on 4 July and will have already visited more than 20 New Zealand towns and cities by the time it hits four locations across Auckland from 24 to 31 July. Designed to give New Zealanders a sample of excitement before the Tournament, the Roadshow is free to enter and travels in a custom-designed truck, which opens into a 72sq metre venue. Auckland fans will be able to have their photo taken with the Webb Ellis Cup, enjoy a taste of REAL New Zealand Festival events, win or buy RWC 2011 tickets, and find out how they can be part of the Tournament. Fans are encouraged to dress up in support of one of the participating countries to be in to win to tickets to an Auckland match. Visitors will also meet local players, take part in interactive displays and watch videos about the history and legends of Rugby World Cup 2011, and experience a huge taste of entertainment from cultural performances to DJs, bands and classical music, to clowns, stilt walkers and fire jugglers. TV One Breakfast weatherman Tamati Coffey will also be broadcasting live from Otara and Orewa. The action-packed RWC 2011 Roadshow will be in the Auckland region on the following dates: The action-packed RWC 2011 Roadshow will be in the Auckland region on the following dates:

Bank of Baroda New Zealands first Managing Director Satish Vermani is due to return to India at the end of this month. Navin Upreti, who has just arrived from India will succeed him. The Indian community has acknowledged Mr Vermanis contribution to the community in having established the banks presence in New Zealand from scratch to a clientele of more than 1500 in a short span of just 20 months. In the past year, the bank has already accumulated deposits of $20 million and advanced loans of about $10 million. The banks highly popular zero-fee remittance service to India has surpassed Rs 30 crores. In the course of its function to honour its sponsors and volunteers earlier this week, the Auckland Indian Association farewelled Mr Vermani and welcomed Mr Upreti at its Mahatma Gandhi Centre premises. The Association thanked Bank of Baroda for its continued support to the Association and its services to the Indian community all over the world. Both Mr Vermani and Mr Upreti were upbeat about the emerging Free Trade Agreement between India and New Zealand and said that

24 July: North Harbour Stadium car park, Albany, 10am to 1pm 25 July: Otara Music and Arts Centre (OMAC) car park, Otara, 6.30am to 9.30am 26 July: Orewa Beach car park, Orewa, 6.30am to 9.30am 31 July: Eastern Viaduct car park, Viaduct Harbour, 10am to 2pm. For further information and location details, check out www.rugbyworldcup.com/ roadshow or www.auckland2011.com.

Satish Vermani

Navin Upreti

the bank would rise to the occasion to facilitate better trade and serve businesses in the two countries. During his visit to formally inaugurate the bank earlier this year, Chairman and Managing Director M D Mallya had told Indian Weekender that the Indian management was highly impressed by the banks progress in New Zealand and would be happy to support its growth in time to come. Commenting on his departure, Mr Vermani told Indian Weekender it was a bitter-sweet experience. While he was looking forward to going back to his home country

after a long stint overseas, he would miss all the friends in the Indian community in New Zealand he said. Mr Vermani will be a tough act to follow, Mr Upreti told Indian Weekender. But Mr Vermani complemented his successor, saying he was greatly experienced with a long and successful service record with the bank. He expressed confidence that Mr Upreti would be successful in taking the bank to greater heights in New Zealand. The bank is already in the process of opening two new branches one in South Auckland and the other in Wellington.

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Indian

New Zealand-India
John Nicholson - Director, Aviation NZ
to December 2010, 346 Indian nationals received their com mercial pilot licences in New Zealand. In 2010, Indians also gained helicopter pilot licenses. We could do more. Making a long term com mitment to market engagement is critically important. The focus should be on building long term relationships with potential customers; and working collaboratively in New Zealand to demystif y the mar ket, share learning and present critical mass. Aviation NZ, through the India Avia tion Strategy, is encouraging long term thin king and collaborative action, both betw een New Zealand companies and with Government agencies. Working together, New Zealand can become a much more significant aviation part ner for India.

Delegates Speak
Continuing our series of impressions of delegates who accompanied Prime Minister John Key on the trade mission to India between June 30 and July1.

a Prabhakar N

t, LanzaTech s Developmen ident, Busines sit - Vice Pres s. The State vi bilit y of succes eatly bolstered gr of the PM has s a broad for such FTA ew Zealand ha nologies, the prospects h tech . For LanzaTec range of being achieved the can to accompany d services that e products, an to be invited si solutions to th ber of his bu provide niche PM as a mem as a genuine Indian expanding tion w t robust and ness delega e Indian marke accelerated th market. The pr ivilege and rt uniss op ain busine mous oppo presents enor movement cert e were already ting chalt equally daun ities that w ties bu port un nelof the cr itical learly institutio lenges. Some engaged in. C sits at least at sf ul st rategy vi cces ements of a su alizing an nual ter level will t, is rm com mitmen include long-te the Trade min FTA formala having open minded, nce both the being en ha d prospects for proposition, an ry and business st rong value tablish local ization trajecto s. So this is something that es ly, m willingness to nt ures. Clear New Zealand fir d st rongly. and joint ve better define men part nerships I would recom in place will A having an FT ease the probaunities and incr market opport

ir

he Indian aviation market is growing rapidly. Cur rently the 9th largest civil aviation market in the world it is expected to be 3rd largest by 2020, passenger traffic is forecast to grow 14% to 15% per year in the next 20 years, around 1150 new aircraft and 500 helicopters will be needed between 2010 and 2030, 15,000 new fixed wing pilots will be needed by 2025, and NZ$3.6b will be spent on airport infrastructure in the five years to 2015 . New Zealand is participating in this grow th. Aircraft engines are serviced in New Zealand, airport fit-outs contain New Zealand products and services (foodcour ts and baggage handling systems ) and some aviation services are provided direct to customers in India. Over the thre e years

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Indian

Community

Manukau Indian Association opens new premises

dev nadkarni
Manukau Indian Association will formally inaugurate its new premises this weekend. The association, which has been serving the Indian community for the past more than three decades, proudly sees this new develand community occasions. Activities began with culture and heritage classes for children and slowly meetings began becoming more frequent. This set in motion the events that lead in 1980 to the formation numbers. When the Diwali shows were held at various school halls, such as at Otahuhu, Papatoetoe and Town hall, it caught the attention of local Kiwi people who over time got hooked on to the colours, flavours and the multifaceted traditions of India. A large number of Kiwis and non Indians still throng all Indian festivals in Manukau today. The Manukau Indian Association is affiliated to New Zealand Central Indian Association, the oldest Indian organisation in New Zealand. The Association has recently amended its constitution so that wider community groups such as Punjabi, Bengali,

Waikato ladies celebrate Tian da Mela

The new premises

Office bearers of the Manukau Indian Association have reason to be proud on the occasion of the opening of the new premises.

opment as a major achievement. The spacious premises at 57, Hillside Road, Papatoetoe, is large enough to accommodate 200 persons. Its hall will be available for hire to all community members for their personal functions and for organisations to conduct their activities such as yoga and cultural classes, exercise programmes and the like. The inauguration of the new premise is a milestone in the history of the association, said Association President Ranjna Patel. To mark the occasion, the Association has chalked out a half-day programme on Saturday, July 23. This will include Multi cultural/religious blessings that will start 2pm; the official opening between 4-5pm and cultural programmes at 5 pm followed by refreshments. The Association has invited all community members to attend. In the 1970s, the Indian community scattered around the suburbs of Mangere, Papatoetoe, Otahuhu, Manurewa, Papakura and other localities mainly in South Auckland felt the need to come together to hold social

of a group styled South Auckland Indian Cultural Society Incorporated. This name because back then, Manukau was not quite well known as it is today. Officially, however, the incorporated society was registered in 1981 as South Auckland Indian Cultural Society. The present name, Manukau Indian Association, came into being in 1997. Back in 1980, the community raised donations and a freehold property was purchased at 25, Tui Road, Papatoetoe a venue which still continues to be the Associations headquarters for all activities. The main activities of the society were to celebrate Indian festivals such as Navratri, Janmashtmi, RamNavmi, Holi, Diwali and Indias Independence Day-15 August something that continues to this day. Gujarati, Hindi and Punjabi classes were held regularly for a number of years at this centre. These classes are still operating. Every year, during the Diwali period, cultural and entertainment concerts were held and members attended these functions in large

Marathi, Kannada associations besides others can be represented on its executive committee, without the groups losing their identities. Today, the executive committee reflects members from most states of INDIA, such as Punjab, Delhi, MP, UP, South India and of course form Gujarat. It is a true reflection of India and the values we have as Indians. With the added strengths of these affiliated groups, Manukau Indian Association has been staging grand Diwali celebrations at venues such as Telstra-Pacific Centre. The Mayor of Auckland the council support Manukau Indian Association in all activities, and has been instrumental in making available the new premises. The Association thanks the community for the support and inolvement it has received down the years. Indian Weekender wishes the Manukau Indian Association every success in its endeavour to serve the community and congratulates the Association on the occasion of the opening of its new premises tomorrow.

The Waikato Punjabi Ladies Cultural Committee recently celebrated their annual Tian da Mela/Festival for Daughters, in Hamilton. This year WPLCC focused on their pioneer mothers and grandmothers. Six Waikato seniors were honoured for their dedication to the Punjabi community, over the years. They were each presented with the WPLCC: Honours award 2011; an engraved kettle with their name on it Bakhshish Kaur Randhawa, Tej Kaur, Avtar Kaur, Harbans Kaur Bindra, Joginder Kaur Bindra and Bibi Mohinder Kaur. After the initial introduction by senior member Mindy Singh, these seniors were asked questions about their pioneering days, they happily answered and shared their early ventures with the splendid audience. For some it was an eyeopener to hear of the hardships of those early years, Mindy said. All in all it sure made people aware, how these earlier pioneers held, and preserved the Punjabi culture over the years, to this day. Mindy said now it is up to the present generation to carry on that wonderful legacy, to preserve and enjoy best of both worlds in this wonderful country we call our home, New Zealand. Our other honoured guests were Sandra Mckenzie from the Department of Internal Affairs, and Acting Sergeant Mandeep Kaur, from the Mangere Neiughbourhood Policing Team. Mandeep Kaur is

the first Punjabi Police woman in New Zealand. She inspired many a women that night to join the Police Force. As usual the evening began with dinner [Jaipur walla], a mix and mingle and then the presentations with cultural items being the highlight for the evening, ending with Gidha and Bhangra late into the night. Raffles were also drawn. WPLCC wishes to thank all the performers: Jatyia Murabyia Walyia, The Sandhu Group, WPLCC Gidha/ Bhangra Academy, Jagmohan & Jeet Kaur, Subsanjh Group, Gagan & Children, Sophie & Kiran, Jaswinder Kaur, Rajni Group and the Comedy Act. You were all superb. Thank you also MCs Jagdeep and Babbu for your tactful way to keep the audience alive. And a huge thank you to the Audience who had travelled from near and afar, for coming, participating in this cultural festival..A special thank you to the sponsors: ASB Bank Morrinsville, Kevin Deane Harcourts Ltd Morrinsville, Fonterra, Indo Spice, Little India and all the ladies who donated so generously. WPLCC is a proud sponsor of the New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation, once again a $1per ticket sold was donated to them. The WPLCC committee members: Mindy Singh, Raj Mundi, Jaswinder Dhaliwal, Brinder Saraan, Balbinder Sharma look forward to bringing to the public tian festival in 2012.

Indian Weekender | July 22, 2011 | www.iwk.co.nz

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Community

Labour announces Indian candidate

The Labour party has selected Sunny Kaushal as its candidate for the Pakuranga Constituency in East Auckland. Mr Kaushal would be the First candidate of Indian origin in New Zealand to contest a parliamentary electorate for Labour Party, says a party media release. Labour Party President Moira Coatsworth said, Labour is committed to ensuring that its candidates are representative of the diverse cultures in New Zealand and Sunny Kaushal with his multilingual and cosmopolitan background is an important part of this. Mr. Kaushal said, I am excited to be the electorate candidate for Labour party in the Pakuranga constituency. I will promote and advance Labour party policies among the people.

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Community
True to its identity and philosophy of Unity Amidst Diversity, the Indian Independence Day will showcase the variety in culture, dance forms, music, art and cuisine, samaj vice-chairperson Roopa Suchdev said. India being the largest democracy in the world with a civilisation more than 5000 years old boasts of multiple cultural origins, Roopa said. The event promises a foretaste of this diversity and multiculturalism that is also an inherent character of any Indian living in New Zealand. Chairman Jeet Suchdev said that while we are keen to share our big day with the people of New Zealand, we would also like to make the next generation aware of their roots which have strong and rich cultural inheritance and acquaint them with this event from a historical perspective. The event will be graced by many dignitaries from New Zealand and India and once again hope to get the best support possible through a positive approach, Jeet Suchdev said. Shirdi Saibaba Temple of NZ Inc celebrated Guru Poornima with four Baba aarthis, on Saturday, July 9, at Mahatma Gandhi Centre, Eden Terrace, Auckland. The days programme started with Kakad aarthi at 7am followed by pran pratishta by Pandit Chandru (of Papakura Ganesh temple) for 2.5 feet Babas new marble statue from Shirdi. This statue was purchased in the holy land of Shirdi, taken into Babas Samadhi mandir, then panditji performed small pooja and was kept at Babas feet, before arriving to Auckland. Pandit Chandru made 30 familes to perform Satyanarayana pooja. Pattabhishek was done for Baba murthi, first time in New Zealand and was attended by hall full of devotees, with devotion and bhakthi.

Memorable I-Day celebrations planned

Devotees mark Guru Poornima

The feature event of the day was Babas new statue from Shirdi and Rathotsav, initially by kids and then by other devotees, flowed by Madhyan aarthi and maha prasad. The evening programme started with Dhoop aarthi. Chavdi was well decorated along with Dhuni and Baba under Neem family tree (neem tree is not available in New Zealand). Paalki seva procession was taken to Radha Krishna Mandir. Saibaba temple singers team sang melodious bhajans followed by Shej aarthi and maha prasad. Around 1000 devotees attend the whole day event. Baba made the devotees to donate approximately $12,000. For more details about temple activities and events, contact Ravi on 09 845-3239 or secretary@saibabatemple.org.nz

The Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust, which has been working together as a socio-cultural body for the Indian community for years, is going to present an implausible Indian experience and mark the 65th Independence Day of India on Sunday, August 14, at the prestigious ASB theatre, Aotea Centre, in Auckland. The super event shall be organised in partnership with various organisations from India and neighbouring countries The celebration shall begin with the flag hoisting at 10.30am followed by a cultural programme from 11am until 3pm.

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Community Benefits of Surya Namaskar

Surya Namaskar in a set of ten yoga postures provides good exercise to the whole body, calms the mind, and sharpens the intellect. l Surya Namaskar energises the entire neuroglandular and neuromuscular system of the body and its regular practice ensures a balanced supply of oxygenated blood and perfect harmony to all the systems of the body thus involves the entire psychosomatic system of human constitution. l Surya Namaskar is a complete exercise to all the muscles and joints of the body. It tones all the muscles of the body and helps reduce fat thereby helping to control obesity and metabolism of the body.. l It strengthens the spine and abdominal muscle to control nervous system and activity of the internal organs. l It expands the rib-cage, increases the capacity of lungs making the breath smooth and easy. l It activates the glands and regulates the hormone. l It encourages the lymph drainage thereby increasing the immunity and resistance of the body. l It increases the circulation of whole body thereby acting as an excellent cardiac workout to enhance the blood circulation and warming up the body. l It increases concentration, memory, learning and focusing ability and vigilance. l It is relaxing and rejuvenating, and tension, stress and anxiety melt away as you perform Surya Namaskar. l Surya Namaskar practice stimulates and conditions virtually every system in the body. It is good for the heart and stimulates the cardiovascular system. It oxygenates the blood and helps strengthen the heart. Surya Namaskar is good for the digestive system and the nervous system. It stimulates the lymphatic system and supports respiratory system health, as well. l Surya Namaskar is an excellent alternative to caffeine and other stimulants. If you suffer from insomnia or sleep disturbances, you will find practicing Surya Namaskar aids in helping you fall asleep without the need for depressants.

Yogathon in New Zealand

Auckland: Yogathon New Zealand, a division of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, is launching a nationwide Health for Humanity Yogathon 2011, which aims to create awareness about the art and science of yoga and its advantages in achieving a healthy body, mind, and spirit. The Yogathon launch event will take place simultaneously at 10am on Saturday, August 13, in Auckland, Hamilton and Wellington. This is the first of its kind Yoga initiative for collective practise of Sun Salutations across New Zealand. During the two-week Health for Humanity Yogathon from 13 to 27 August 2011, Yogathon New Zealand and participating organisations will encourage their members and others across the country to collectively perform 100,000 Surya Namaskar, a sequence of simple yoga postures. Surya Namaskar integrates simple yoga postures of well-balanced movements linked with easy breathing technique, and provides immense health benefits to both body and mind. Yogathon aims to promote yoga widely in a scientific perspective of health, to make it a part of the school curriculum in future, encourage healthy living and connect all yoga schools and practitioners in New Zealand through participation on this planned annual event. This programme is open to people of all ages, gender, and races. It is quite heartening to have dedi-

cated coordinators from different organisations like Bikram School of Yoga, Art of Living New Zealand, New Zealand Hindu Temple Society and many more for this event, said Venkat Koppaka, National Co-ordinator, Yogathon New Zealand. The Yogathon organising committee invites various yoga centres, schools and tertiary institutes, social, cultural, and spiritual and community organisations, regardless of individual faiths and beliefs, to register in this Health for Humanity Yogathon, and continue practicing Surya Namaskar beyond the Yogathon. To register for this unique nationwide event go to http://yogathon-nz.

org/registration About Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutations) Surya Namaskar is a Sun Salutation that is traditionally performed at dawn facing the rising sun. Its roots can be found in the yoga philosophy of Vedic traditions. The routine helps develop all five personality levels, namely physical, prana, mental, intellectual, and spiritual. This helps individuals to lead a very healthy lifestyle with a profound sense of wellbeing. More information at: http://yogathon-nz.org/research http://yogathon-nz.org/health-forhumanity-yogathon

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India

President for tough stand on black money

New Delhi: President Pratibha Patil sures, she said. There has to be continued (coon Friday said that it imperative to take stern action action against tax operation) through appropriate evaders and the war on illicit funds agreement on tax information exhad to fought both domestically and change, and on mutual cooperation between countries to track down abroad. Addressing the concluding cer- evaders taking shelter in other jurisemony of celebrations for 150 years dictions, she said. Speaking on domestic measures, of the Income Tax Department, the President stressed on the need she said, Fostering of an environof widening cooperation between ment of voluntary compliance will countries to crack down on tax help. There is also need for putting in place measures, through laws evaders and illicit money. The war against black money and procedures, to ensure that rehas to be addressed to New Zealand of Your Belonging both domesti- calcitrant tax evaders are brought to cally and through cross border mea- book.

KITE: The Pride

Bhakra Nangal dam on LeT target list

New Delhi: The Intelligence Bureau

Our offer to students is: (IB) has warned that one of Indias A pathway towards career goals plus new friendships and the confidence-building todam- Bhakra Nangal dambiggest near the border between Punjab and highlight the journey. Himachal Pradesh, is on the target As well as NZQA-Certificated education, our entreaty includes: list of terror outfits Lashkar-e-Taiba Entertainment sessions driven by (LeT) and Jamat-ud-Dawah (JuD). New Delhi: Leading business house Euros, said Tata Steel Group chief, fellow learners. The quiz and partying routines can According to reports, the IB has Tata Group will be launching af- either research, Sumitesh Das. leisure. Either way, your participation is vital. be global educative or for pure The company will with faculty sounded an alert that fordable houses for the rural market Interactive sociability provide roof, on site, as well as guest speakers prominent within LeT and JuD are training their members for an by 2012, said a top official here on doors and windows to be assembled NZin a pre-fabricated format. A house business houses. attack on Bhakra Nangal dam. Saturday. Affirmativeness counsel, both Pertinently, After its Rs 1 lakh Nano car, will have a life span of 20 years. to help young adults take charge of their lives and in Feb 2010, JuD Similarly there are other models commander Abdur Rehman Makki this will be a major step by Tatas to equally to align with Kiwi work culture. had offer houses priced Rs 32,000 each which may come with a solar panel Supporting on the roof of the house, Das said. students choice of study, students are invited into interludes of career threatened bloodshed over water-sharing between India and to rural people. The main challenge it may face Pakistan. Its a quick fit pilot development and New Zealands diverse heritage. built in 7

Tata to launch affordable houses

Heed this India- the Pakistan of days. Essence is you should have a is supply chain management due to the buying will be much higher. We jihadis... the Pakistan land. Pricing is KITE sits aloft in an elegant airy setting, overlooking the Auckland cityscape. This is an institute of Kashmiris based on a 20 sq mtr shortage of production of panels. In the first pilot project, we need feedback from Panchayats, vow.. if you steal our water... Rivers area with a flat root which comes of the interest of people in veran- International Students, administeredblood will flow, Makki had said of by the New for around 500bondedThere is Codesaw Practice for Pastoral Care of who are our final customers, he Euros. to the an Zealand Ministry dah which we at a rally in Pakistan. upgraded model also which is 30 of Education. have incorporated, said. There KITE housing leadership through The Bhakra Nangal dam, located sq mtr which is under Indira Awaas though it was not heartland Queen Street,is a ruralis aboutshortage Like its high vantage over there earlier. We at a gorge near the (now submerged) Yojana and all which comes for 700 plus the social grace to help guide students there. Census 2001. education, thought if we incorporate verandah, of 1.48 crore, as per

upstream Bhakra village in Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh, is Asias second highest at 225.55 m (740 ft) high next to the 261m Tehri Dam also in India. The length of the dam (measured from the road above it) is 518.25 m; it is 9.1 m broad. Its reservoir, known as the Gobind Sagar, stores up to 9340 million cu m of water, enough to drain the whole of Chandigarh, parts of Haryana, Punjab and Delhi. The 90 km long reservoir created by the Bhakra Dam is spread over an area of 168.35 km. In terms of storage of water, it withholds the second largest reservoir in India, the first being Indira Sagar dam in Madhya Pradesh with capacity of 12.22 billion cu m.

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Indian Weekender | July 22, 2011 | www.iwk.co.nz

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India

MEDICARE sector booming in India

The huge improvement in services available in the Indias healthcare and affordable cost for foreigners has led to a booming medical care sector. But there are also loopholes that need to be plugged, reports Baishali Mukherjee
placement, orthopedic surgery, gastroenterology, ophthalmology, transplants and urology to name a few. This acts as an incentive for the NRI docs to come back home. Basu adds that things are changing rapidly for the better in high-value private health care in India while for the worse for doctors in general in the US and in particular in UK. As the economy booms, corporate hospitals are mushrooming all over the country. As a result, they are bringing the latest equipment and their practices and standards are increasingly conforming to globally accepted levels, driven partly by the desire to attract medical tourism, he says. Changes are observed in all spheres in the medical world. The concept of Health Insurance, believes Banerjee, is becoming very popular and will become a necessity in the next five years. He sees a distinct change in the way health care is being delivered these days. Another fast growing trend is to go for institutional help rather than individual ones. Many patients now prefer a one- stop healthcare system than hopping from one doctor to another. Last but not the least, even doctors now look for holistic health care rather than focused treatment. The new mantra is Health Care with a Smile. There is another side of the story too and these are areas which need to be addressed. According to Pal, India is going to face an acute shortage of proven good quality specialty and super specialty doctors in the coming two decades. Over the past 30-40 years, a tremendous amount of private money has been spent on creating mushrooming medical colleges with no quality control. But there are hardly enough places to train the students in high-end medical care. India by now should have had at least two to three AIIMS (counterpart of IIT/IIM) in each state for producing doctors to fill up the top of the pyramid. This would have created enough manpower base to not only cater to our population but also international medical tourists. The only solution, Pal feels, is to forge strong public-private partnership and use private high quality hospitals as training grounds. The other important area that needs urgent attention is to create an effective, active health care quality watchdog. The perception outside India is, and its true to a great extent, that excellence and ordinary to substandard coexist so closely and comfortably that its difficult for an uninformed client to select quality out of the mass. Banerjee feels that the training of the nursing staff and the fourth class staff in most of the hospitals of the country are not up to the mark. There is a need for proper training of these people including the sense of hygiene as most of these people belong to the lower middle class and therefore have a very poor sense of hygiene. Combined domestic demand as well as international demand for quality medical care at reasonable cost is set to boost the field further, experts feel, but the loopholes have to be plugged to make India the leader in the field.

It wasnt the forts, temples, palaces, culture or nature that attracted him to India. It was sheer practical reason that made the Egyptian book his ticket to Kolkata. His sole purpose - getting a knee replacement at the Apollo Gleneagles Hospitals, reveals Suvro Banerjee, an interventional cardiologist attached to the hospital. But not only patients, many NRI doctors are also coming back to settle down in the home country. This endorses the fact that the medical scenario of the country is changing and its changing for the better. Banerjee, a graduate from Calcutta Medical College, went to UK in 1994 for further studies and also to practice medicine. A couple of years down the line, he came back to India to be with his ailing parents and subsequently found that a lot has changed since he left the country. Lots of good work is going on here now and also there has been an exponential rise in both quality and quantity of amenities and infrastructure. Earlier, trained doctors didnt get the chance to put their skills into practice. The hope of being able to execute my training made me decide to settle down here. Many doctors are doing the same thing, says Banerjee. The combination of expert care and state-of-the art infrastructure have helped medical tourism India to boom ahead. Leading doctors of the country opine that medical care facilities in the country is on par with those in the western countries. Patients from Middle East, Mau-

ritius, US, UK, Maldives, Bangladesh, Burma, Nigeria, Seychelles etc who need surgical procedures like heart surgeries, orthopedic surgeries (joint replacements), advanced laparoscopic surgeries, cosmetic surgery etc. are eyeing India as their destination for medical treatment. Cities like Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Coimbatore are gradually emerging as hot spots of medical tourism. The other reason for the booming industry is the cost factor. A complex transplant or bypass procedure can be done for a tiny fraction of the cost here as compared to countries in the West. This includes significantly longer postoperative care in the hospital itself. Travel agencies like Easy Tours has working relationships with Escorts Group Hospitals and Research Centers and Apollo Group Hospitals and Research Centers. This ranges from relationships with the top doctors and nurse practitioners to the board members and administrators of the institutions. This allows us to facilitate the highest levels of service combined with the very best medical treatment possible, says Shantanu Basu, specializing in Internal Medicine, Endocrinology and Clinical Cardiology. Another of the doctors heading home, he is presently attached to a few leading hospitals in Bangalore. Says he : Indian corporate hospitals excel in cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery, joint re-

Indian corporate hospitals excel in cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery, joint replacement, orthopedic surgery, gastroenterology, ophthalmology, transplants and urology to name a few. This acts as an incentive for the NRI docs to come back home.

80% people have complications from Diabetes: Study

Bangalore: The study conducted across 28 countries including India reveals that 80% of people suffering from Type II Diabetes have complications of serious nature. Up to 75% of participants had cardiovascular disease. Up to 84% had other diabetes complications including kidney disease, eye problems, foot ulcers and neuropathy. According to a new data published on Friday, it show that too high blood sugar levels, delay in beginning of insulin and a high level of diabetes-related complications remain common place for many people with type II diabetes across the world. Baseline data from A1chieve, a type 2 diabetes study with 66,726 people from 28 countries across the world including over 20,000 from India, were presented at the 71st American Diabetes Association Congress. Data captured from people before any study insulins were begun showed that over all diabetes control was poor with an average blood sugar level (HbA1c) of 9.5 %,1 which is above the internationally recognised target of 7 %. Up to 75% of participants had cardiovascular disease. Up to 84% had other diabetes complications including kidney disease, eye problems, foot ulcers and neuropathy2. This data however also differs between the regions. At the time of entering the study around 9% of patients had not received any glucose-lowering medication despite having their mean Hba1c level above 10%1. Those who had received oral glucose-lowering medication before entering the study had a duration of diabetes of between 5.9 in south Asia and 10.4 years in Latin America suggesting a significant delay in beginning of insulin therapy. Patients who had been previously started on insulin were given low doses and the dose was not increased over time as often is required due to disease progression. Commenting on the data, Philip Home, Professor of Diabetes Medicine at Newcastle University, England said: This data highlights the constant need to improve the management of type 2 diabetes patients globally. It is clear from the data that beginning and optimisation of insulin therapy is often delayed, resulting in poor glycaemic control leading to diabetes complications.

Indian Weekender | July 22, 2011 | www.iwk.co.nz

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India

Sai Babas mahasamadhi open for visitors

Puttaparthi (Andhra Pradesh): Indian spiritual guru Sathya Sai Babas memorial was unveiled and opened for visitors at the Prasanthi Nilayam ashram in Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh last Friday. The mahasamadhi, a rectangular, white marble edifice - 9 ft long, 6 ft wide and 2 ft 2 inches high, is located in the 10,000-capacity Sai Kulwant Hall, the largest of hall of the Worlds biggest ashram, where Baba used to give darshan to his followers.A large number of devotees gathered outside the ashram once again to catch a glimpse of the

memorial, which is placed exactly over the spot where the spiritual guru is buried. Sai Baba had died on April 24 from cardio-respiratory failure after spending nearly four weeks in a hospital run by his own trust. He was buried inside the Sai Kulwant Hall in a private ceremony on Apr 27, open to key relatives and members of his trust, while thousands of devotees watched it live on the screens put up outside the ashram, waiting with bated breath for the gates to be thrown open again.

The hall was where Baba sat, gave discourses and blessed people. Many years ago, he had apparently expressed desire to be buried within the hall itself. As devotees watched on, Babas body was lowered in a seven feet-deep pit in the hall, which was then then filled with Kuruskshetra matti (soil), salt, silver, gold and navaratnas (nine jewels). He was the incarnation of god for his countless followers worldwide and after he died Indian cricket stars Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar, yoga guru Ramdev, Union ministers Praful Patel and Vilas Rao Deshmukh, Bollywood actor Riteish Deshmukh were among those who touched down on the tiny village to catch a last glimpse of Sai Baba.The Andhra Pradesh government had constituted a five-member committee headed by Finance Secretary L V Subramanyam to look the affairs of Sai Babas charitable trust, the Sathya Sai Central Trust, which is believed to control assets of over Rs 40,000 crore. Born on Nov. 23, 1926, in Puttaparti, Sai Baba was followed by an estimated 20 to 50 million people worldwide after claiming to be a reincarnation of spiritual guru Sai Baba of Shirdi at the age of 14.

Tendulkar the best Test cricketer: Strauss

Dubai: England Test captain Andrew Strauss on this weeks ICC Cricket World audio show has said that he believes Sachin Tendulkar is the best Test cricketer of all time. Australia all-rounder Shane Watson, Sri Lanka wicket-keeper Kumar Sangakkara, former West Indies captain Clive Lloyd and Indian legend Sourav Ganguly join ICC Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat on this weeks show which is a special celebration of the 2000th Test match. Looking ahead to the EnglandIndia series, which begins at Lords on Thursday, July 21, Strauss admitted he is excited about the challenge of taking on India, the worlds number one team. I think it will be special - any series against India is special anyway. It is going to be a challenge, because India is a very confident side. They have got every right to feel confident about their ability. On the other hand we are playing at home. It has all the makings of a classic series, said Strauss. Talking of the greatest Test player of all time Strauss said: I think I would probably say it is Sachin Tendulkar, who has been the best Test cricketer of all time. For him to go on for so long and maintain his incredibly high standards is a great testament of the man and the desire of his outrageous talent as well. The England captain also recalled the moment that first got him interested in Test match cricket and revealed what he believes is the greatest match of all time. The moment that ignited my interest in Test cricket was England winning the 1986-87 Ashes Test series under Mike Gatting, said Strauss. The Test match that springs out for me as the best is the Edgbaston match in the 2005 Ashes series, which we won by two runs. ICC Cricket Committee chairman and former West Indies captain Clive Lloyd also shares his thoughts in the show on why Test cricket is the ultimate challenge for international players. Twenty20 is an exhibition, but Test cricket is an examination in all aspects of your game. When any player retires from the game, he wants to be known as a Test player, as someone who has battled his way through, says Lloyd.

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Heritage Fiji

The $20 billion Indian gym for the mind

ram lINgam More than $20 billion worth of wealth in a temple? Thats the account of hidden wealth in the 8th century Shree Padmanbhaswmy temple in Thiruvananthapuram, kerala. But this abundance of wealth has not been unusual in the history of some indian temples. While ancient indian temples were built as spiritual gymnasiums for the mind, they also had enormous wealth to consistently provide that opportunity for spiritual development. But there are other types of wealth in the ancient Indian temples that are much more valuable than its material wealth. Whats that?
India has thousands of temples, thronged by millions of people. If there is anything great and concrete that has survived the rigours and ravages of time in India, then it is surely the ancient temples. Of the thousands, there are many ancient temples that have a deep history, fascinating legends and where famous saints have gotten their Darshan (ultimate insight) of the Absolute Truth. The word Mandir comes from Sanskrit root Mandat, which means to be filled with transcendent emotion, to delight, to shine. India has also many spectacular temples that have found a place in the World Heritage list. These include the Sun Temple at Konrk in Odisha (previously known as Orissa), Khajurho Temples in Madhya Pradesh, Ajant cave temples and Kailshnath temple in Ellora, Mahrshtra, Brihadeswara Temple in Tanjavuur and Snchi Stupa in Bhopal. Every ancient temple in India gives a glimpse of the continuous Indian civilisation and speaks of a golden time when India was at the vanguard of civilisation. They were such great storehouses of wealth that barbarous invaders like Mahmud of Ghazni invaded the Somnath temple in Gujarat 17 times only to loot the temples wealth every time. It is said Mahmuds loot was worth some 20million Dinars (1200 years ago). It is well known that the Portuguese traveler Vasco Da Gama also looted from Indias temples and sailed back with ships full of gold. The Shree Padmanbhaswmy temple caught our attention not because of its heritage but due to the hidden wealth (more than Rs.1,00,000 crores i.e. over $20 billion) which incidentally is more than India's annual education budget. Overnight this temple is touted as the richest temple in India, if not in the world. It was this temple that gave its name to Keralas state capital Thiruvananthapuram (mispronounced as Trivandrum) which is made up of 3 words Thiru + Anantha + Puram meaning Sacred Abode of Lord Anantha Padmanbha who is the main deity of the temple. It is generally observed that many ancient and big temples had three types of wealth (1) the deity (2) the cultural assets like art and architecture etc and (3) material wealth that belongs to the temple like land, gold, money, etc. The temple primarily exists because of the deity. Normally the history of the temple (found in its sthala purna) explains why the temple exits in the first place. The deity and the cultural assets pass from generation to generation and these two types of wealth are considered much more valuable and mystical than the material wealth ($20 billion!) belonging to the deity. The greatest wealth of any temple is the deity who is invoked and worshipped by devotees as the manifestation of the one Supreme God. In Vedic tradition, there is no greater wealth than God. Hence God is addressed as Bhagavn meaning one who has infinite bhaga i.e. opulence. Bhagavn is one who has all the 6 kinds of opulences that of richness, fame, strength, influence, beauty and wisdom. Pretty much all wealth is covered including material wealth. The name of the deity speaks volumes of the eternal nature of Godhead. In the Shree Padmanbhaswmy temple, the deity is Lord Vishnu. Vishnu is derived from the root word Vi meaning "presence everywhere" (as God pervades everything i.e. vevesti, he is called Vishnu). The root Vis also means to enter. Masters have explained that That which pervades everything is Vishnu just like Gold pervades all gold ornaments. Lord Vishnu is personified in a unique symbology called Padmanabha meaning Lotus-navelled which has deep and esoteric meaning. The deity being central, the temple complex and design, its art and Vedic architecture form the second type of wealth i.e. the temples cultural assets. This also includes the esoteric traditions, the mystical diagrams, installed yantras which function as revelatory conduits of cosmic truths, the secrets and life lessons hidden in the sculptures, the legends, the miracles, the traditions, the spiritual iconography, the gopuram with all the symbolic carvings etc. These symbolic and metaphorical arts bring to light the universal meanings of truth beneath the archaic exterior, which is extolled to be much more enduring that material wealth. These are the real subtle wealth that temples provide free of charge to devotees. Thus ancient Indian temples were not only places of invocation and worship but also art which was considered as expression of the divine. The major temples in ancient India were more known for their encouragement of arts and learning than just places of worship. Hence, in old Indian temples, all the amenities were available like hall, performance areas, pond within the complex, art work, dorms and the architects & sculptors made sure the public ultimately noticed the hidden messages in rocks. Thus the spectrum of wealth originates from the sanctum sanctorum (Garba Graha) right to the exterior art on the outer boundaries of the temple. From the temples peripheral wall to the deitys central sanctorum is the invitation for the mind to take flight from the gross to the subtlest. Art is the methodology used in this mandir for spiritual development. The mystical knowledge that the temple deity and the exterior art present is the real wealth that seems to miss our attention. No government, trust board or king can claim this. It is available free for anybody who is interested in the timeless essence. No lawsuit is necessary to claim this.

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From the Editor

Letters
Time to outgrow frog-in-the-well Kiwi mindset
Kiwis are the best people in world, but why is NZ not doing so well economically? This is because Kiwis take too long to change their mind set with the every day fast changes on the world platform. I think the Prime Minister should always travel in the Royal New Zealand Air Force plane except local travel. We are a small country but to compete with large economies we have to make them feel that we are not paupers with a poor prime minister of NZ travelling like an ordinary passenger while on state visit. Kuldeep Arora

CGT may well be central poll issue

The upshot of the Labour Partys go for broke game plan to bring New Zealands longtime political hot potato the capital gains tax to centre stage is that it has brought the fiercely debated tax into the realm of serious public discourse, strongly enough to become a central election issue. Trailing light years behind National in the popularity stakes polls and recent poles showing support at an all time low, Labour had nothing to lose when it decided to bring back a tax that it had avoided all along when it was in power. In fact all its policies steered clear of any such possibility despite its socialistic ideology. But that was when it was in power. Its different now. And with the polls showing popularity that doesnt seem to be creeping up from rock bottom, this was the best that its think tank could come up with to stay in the fray with any sort of programme that could at least generate a debate and keep Labours political pot simmering in the run up to the November elections. A well thought out capital gains tax regime is something that most OECD countries and a number of developing nations governments have evolved into an efficient mechanism to mop up revenue. There has all along been a strong argument for implementing such a tax in New Zealand but no political party has had the gumption to introduce it while in power. With severely limited avenues for investment in the country, housing and property have over the years emerged into the most popular investment options. Easy credit availability in the years before the global financial crisis fuelled the property market into a huge bubble here in New Zealand as elsewhere in the world. Valuations went through the roof, feeding New Zealanders notorious collective financial imprudence of borrowing beyond means. It was on Labours watch that the property bubble grew to monstrous proportions and it knew very well then that any move to introduce a capital gains tax during that time would most certainly result in political hara-kiri. So the issue was never in the reckoning. In any case, the government had neither the imagination nor the political will to intervene in the runaway ballooning of the property bubble. Now, with all options run out and nothing to lose, Labour has exhumed the idea of a tax that had long been buried. And it has succeeded in not only gaining attention but also capturing the imagination of a substantial number of thinking New Zealanders. It has been hugely successful in making it potentially an election issue and forced National into doing something about it. In that sense it has proved to be a masterstroke. But its position lacks credibility because two reasons: its past stand or the lack of it on the issue and the complexity of implementing the tax that it has proposed. Riddled with exceptions and contradictions it would be a compliance nightmare that could only be profitable for tax advisers, accountants and lawyers. Moreover, the real benefits to the economy will not be immediate, kicking in years later, to speak nothing of the effects it would have on the property market especially spiraling rentals. Having dragged a dead horse on to centre stage and flogged it enough to cause it to stir, the ruling National led government cannot help but take notice. Neither can it debunk in an outright manner the idea of a capital gains tax. It will have to take a stand and come up with its own credible proposals. Most agree that a sensible, pragmatic, well thought out capital gains tax would benefit the country. It will be interesting to see the debate between good sense and political expediency in the run up to November. - Dev Nadkarni

Nine-yard Seduction: the saree in Bollywood

This brings back some fond memories. There is none other more alluring than a woman in a saree and no body does it better in modern Bollywood than Vidya Balan. She is the classic Indian beauty, not a mish mash of a gori chori. Nalinesh Arun

A little-known Maori philosophy

Wrong to say that "ancient" Judaic "higher" philosophical concepts existed actually these were the concepts that were supplanted on colonised Maori by philosophically unethical means. Rightly pointed out that the tradition and philosophy of Maoris was supplanted/ distorted to a great extent by euro translators, which they have done in most places they colonised. There is a bit of error in this article though, when Judaism is mentioned as the source of "higher" philosophical concepts. Philosophy in Europe started during renaissance period when they went back to truly ancient Greek and Roman thinkers, getting rid of Judaic pseudo-religious philosophical structures of enslavement. Proud Pagan I disagree. Both the Torah and the practise of Kaballah show high philosophy. The Judaic concepts we find as part of the Old Testament are watered down version that were chosen for convenience. Only what fulfilled the aims of those in power were selected from Judaism. Their high philosophy is still available to the seeker. And if we were to equate 'philosophy' only to European thought of the Rennaisance, then every bit of the above article is degraded to paganism, isn't it? Nalinesh Arun

21 dead, many hurt in Mumbai blasts

Core problem must be solved to get rid of such things. People who indulged in these attacks are misguided youth, they should be brought into the mainstream. It must be remembered that Islam is a religion of peace. Terrorists are not true Muslims. In Kuran or in Bible, nowhere it has been mentioned to conduct bomb attacks. By bringing misguided youth to true religion and explaining true Kuranic or Biblical concepts of not using bombs, they will become productive citizens. Also, give reservation to them. Sheep of Shepherd There are plenty of misguided youth, what spurs these misguided youths to kill is a matter of concern and quite precisely what we all need to find out. Why do adherents of only one major religion predominantly indulge in these acts why not followers of other religions? I'd love to be enlightened. Shridhar

Fiji needs support, say academics

Many commentators have been calling for engagement with Fiji to facilitate a peaceful transition to democracy. It's quite clear from the story that the USP academics are responding to two recent developments that could lead to violence - Ratu Tevita Mara's defection and the proposed changes to the national pension funds. Azad needs to understand the meaning and significance of context. Wakey, wakey things haven't stood still in Fiji since the coup! Charles Singh

Indian Weekender Volume 3 No. 7 Publisher: Kiwi Media Group Limited Group editor-in-chief: Dev Nadkarni dev@indianweekender.co.nz Online editor: Arvind Kumar arvind@indianweekender.co.nz Chief Technical Officer: Rohan Desouza rohan@ indianweekender.co.nz Design: Sonata Design Ltd - sonatadesignnz@gmail.com Advertising: Giri Gupta - Ph: 520 0922, Mob: 021 221 1131. Email - girigupta@xtra.co.nz Tanya Mehra - Ph 520 0922 Mob: 021 1598 016 Email: tanya@indianweekender.co.nz Accounts & Admin: Farah - Email: accounts@indianweekender.co.nz Please email original editorial contributions, community notices and pictures to editor@indianweekender.co.nz Views expressed in the publication are not necessarily of the publisher and the publisher is not responsible for advertisers claims as appearing in the publication

Ten top stories on iwk.co.nz

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. AIA helps community keep fighting fit Devotees mark Guru Poornima A little-known Maori philosophy Quality of FTA paramount, says PM Delegates Speak At home with the classes and the masses INZBC says India visit a success Time to outgrow frog-in-the-well Kiwi mindset Pepper negotiations with soft power Fiji Foreign Reserves reaches its highest to date
Indian Weekender | July 8, 2011 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian Weekender is published by Kiwi Media Group, 98 Great South Road, New Market and printed at APN Print, Ellerslie, Auckland Copyright 2010. Kiwi Media Group. All Rights Reserved.

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Comment

Bomb blasts and Mumbai ducks

gopINatH mavINkurve

Anguished Mumbai citizen and writer Gopinath Mavinkurve writes of the frustrations of living and working in Indias commercial capital, that the authorities have no clue how to keep safe.
We are sitting ducks, insisted the celebrity author, Shobha De on news channels, following the latest terror attack in Mumbai. If there is one development that has positively taken place since the latest terror incident in Mumbai, it is the acceptance by one and all that the words resilient Mumbaikars and spirit of Mumbai have become taboo forever. Mumbaikars have had enough of this undeserved praise for doing what we all have had to after the previous blasts to get back with our livelihoods, simply because, we have no other choice! Thats not speaking too well about us, is it? Thankfully, the media persons and their select invitee personas have sensed the mood of the city dwellers this time around and have avoided this oft-repeated clich, which followed blasts, like thunder follows lightning - and with annoying regularity. It had been haunting us with every attack in fact it was a blow that would hit us after the blasts did and the blasts happened at the free will of the terrorists. This time around, several citizens like Hemant Mehta, other witnesses at the blast site and Shobha De effectively conveyed the anger amongst the common people arising out of the inactions resulting in the failure of the counter-terrorism measures promised to us since the audacious attacks of 26/11. Had there been an instrument to measure the anger of people, it wouldve certainly tripped! And if there had been an inverter-like power-converting device to convert anger into electricity, we could have lit up all the remote villages of our country for the next 5 years! Sadly, there arent such devices or instruments. More saddening is the fact that we have yet to learn how to convert our anger into constructive nation-building activities, let alone electricity! If we had learnt this, the anger we all felt when scam after scam rocked our country would have resulted in some scampreventing mechanism, which would go off the moment scheming scamsters began looting the exchequer. We always learn about scams much after they happen in fact so late, that the money looted has already left the shores and have even come back

into our shores in a different avatar thanks to the loopholes like Participatory Notes, that have been intentionally designed and provided for such purposes. So even our getting angry is nothing new, just in case you thought that our high-intensity anger would change things this time around and think that we shall see quick action to ensure that counter-terrorism efforts will be hastened to quell the seething public. Relax no such thing is likely to happen, folks! After the next blast, it will be the politicians turn to tell us dont tell us we are angry, we know! Didnt you hear why the much-needed equipment like CCTV cameras have not been procured? There is now the fear of allegation of corruption in the tendering processes! So all that anger

and cynicism of corrupt procurement has hit us back like a boomerang, has it? Or are they saying that unless we stop picking holes in every public procurement and our media turns its cameras away and let them loot the kitty, we wont buy anything that we are in dire need of? I am not sure if the cynicism expressed by us would stir the folks that run our government or not just to prove us wrong, if nothing else but what I am sure about is that we are sitting Mumbai ducks helplessly awaiting the next jolt that would hit us. We dont even know whether it will be a bomb blast, an accident, or a master con job cheating the taxpayer of his hard-earned money? And on a day that goes by without being hit by a blast, we may assume

that Rahul Gandhis men must have foiled someones nasty bid on our lives. How else could we justify his claim of 99% success in foiling terrorism attacks? But if that 1% that remains uncovered means that we shall continue to suffer attacks on innocent city dwellers now and then, chances are that we shall accept this new reality as our new normal a recently invented term to deal with deteriorating quality of our lives. In days to come, we may not watch post-blast news analysis or read such blogposts, having taken it in our stride as we do our corruption, insensitivity, inaction and the apathy of the authorities serving in public offices. Maybe we would hurt the perpetrators with our indifference. Huh? Jai ho!

TO BE OR NOT TO BE: A Hamlet in Every Agricultural Student

rIteN CHaND gosaI

Young, award-winning agriculture student from Fiji, riten Chand Gosai, urges young people to consider agriculture as a potentially successful career, while dispelling the myths surrounding this important but much neglected occupation
Pondering on an idyllic prelude for this article, I remembered my English literature classes back at high school and studying the drama Hamlet legend of a prince who at one stage of his life is in great dilemma. He contemplates over surviving the harshness of the living world contrary to the peacefulness of death. Similarly, we all face this to be or not to be decision in secondary school; or should I say to do or not to do decision when it comes to choosing our subject combinations. Just like Hamlet found it hard to capitulate to death as he would be termed frail, many students find it difficult to opt for agriculture with the trepidation of being labelled taking the easy way out or a future farmer trust me, I was. Agriculture seems to be a harsh pill to swallow for many students. In Fijis contextual scenario, this age old mindset of youths is a result of dire experiences they typically encounter at home and at school. While the national priority is to achieve certain degree of self-sufficiency in staple produce and livestock, agriculture and particularly agricultural studies is not receiving similar lime-light; the response to which I discovered in this motivating quote: farmers are getting older while farms are getting larger and more industrialized the economy continues to stumble. What can we do to keep agriculture sustainable? The most valuable crop we can grow is the next generation... However, there are two commonplace phenomenons that keep youths in a lumber whether to take up agricultural studies and develop it into a career. First being the family expectations and secondly, the experiences at school. In my opinion, the family unit is extremely influential in how a persons career takes shape. In that perspective, it is common knowledge that parents with certain expectations from their children always prefer them pursuing white collar jobs; a total disregard for agricultural studies and related careers. This viewpoint is due to the fact that farming has been a tough ask for them (especially with the indentured Girmit system in the colonial era and the lack of farm mechanization/ technology in previous years). Majority perceive their children will go through the same ordeal without realizing agriculture/farming has modernised in various ways and with scientific knowledge, innovative ideas and effective organization, they can be entrepreneurs of highly profitable farm businesses or take-up well-off professions. A survey by the Secretariat of the Pacific Communitys Land Resources Division which is entailed in the Youth and Agriculture Strategy 2011 2015 states that young people identified the importance of family support as central to their engagement in agricultural activities and enterprises. At the same time, these young people expressed the desire to be acknowledged, emotionally and financially, for such contributions and for the supporting role they played within their families. If young people are to be encouraged to develop into successful agricultural entrepreneurs their families must recognise that they must be facilitated in accessing land and finance and in controlling the financial returns from their activities. These activities though, must be separate from their contributions to family or community agriculture. Furthermore in my observation, an issue which is not much deliberated about and goes unchallenged is the discouragement students receive in school when it comes to agricultural studies. This is more or less a consequence of pre-conceived ideas they acquire at home or the ones imposed on them by peers and teachers alike. While conversing with several secondary school students in the quest for factual accounts, I recognized that it is in the understanding of many young people that agriculture is any easy subject, not attractive and for average students. They also deem that agricultural studies do not lead to noble professions; providing evidence of their slender outlook of the diverse agricultural field and serious lack of career advice. Students can also develop this negative attitude if teachers impress upon them that agriculture is a less worthwhile subject to pursue then others and use agriculture as a means of discipline or punishment. I have felt the brunt of this harsh reality first hand. When asked about my subject combinations at school or bachelors programme at university, a reply of agricultural science always attracted reactions of oh ok, oh, or why not something else with sarcastic grins on peoples faces. Such discrepancies will continue to undermine the efforts of any form of awareness if the grassroots issues are not addressed. Ignoring agriculture and its studies would be an act of foolishness so as to think we do not need food production anymore. Sometimes, it is not about what you farm (either perishables or livestock); it is how you go about executing it. Making resources available, understanding the weather, utilizing innovations (especially ICTs), manipulating cropping patterns, integration and efficient management just may be the key ingredients. Young minds have the capacity to absorb and the capability to perform this. However, unless we alter attitudes at home and actions in school, a Hamlet will continue to dwell in every student wanting to pursue agricultural studies and career.

Indian Weekender | July 22, 2011 | www.iwk.co.nz

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Fiji

Vehicle lease deal to boost services

vehicles on the road as soon as possible, he said. Because you know for example in the outreach, medical facilities we want to provide in the rural areas and for agricultural outreach programmes, you need vehicles to go out and service these areas As lease facility financiers, BSP Bank general manager Kevin McCarthy said the banks Pacific spirit and confidence in Fiji encouraged them to partner with the Government. We finance the purchase of the vehicles and receive from Government a monthly lease rental that includes all the costs of the vehicle the insurance, the servicing and all the purchase costs, he said. BSP prides itself on being a really Pacific bank when we were approached about this proposal this is something that other banks in Fiji wouldnt look at, we had a long term view about Fiji and a Pacific view about Fiji so we are happy to step in and assist Government with this facility that will bring Government, modern vehicles and a very competitive financing position for it. The leasing arrangement is a more modern approach to deal with resource constraints.

Governments rural outreach services have been boosted with a $10 million vehicle lease three-party agreement signed by Asco Motors and the Bank of the South Pacific.
In this way, not only does Government address the issue of vehicle shortages, the challenges associated with maintaining and repairing vehicles are covered as well. We found that previously, when vehicles were purchased, if there was an accident, it would sit with the ministry in a garage or yard waiting funding to fix the bumper, and in that time the vehicles would get vandilised and parts would go missing. So, in terms of efficiency, it wasnt there but under the leasing arrangement Asco Motors will ensure vehicles are serviced on time. At the macro level, the lease arrangement assists the apprenticeship scheme with mechanics employed, Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said. By having a fleet of vehicles that will be well maintained over four years these vehicles will be sold on the open market ordinary Fijians can access and buy vehicles after four years and Government also has the option to buy if it wants to, he said. It does put less demand on foreign reserves and at the same time it assists with the apprenticeship scheme.

Fiji-Vehicle lease deal-AG seals teh deal with Asco Motors CEO Abdul Hafiz, BSP general manager Kevin McCarthy

Under the agreement, Asco Motors will provide Government with 132 vehicles. Attorney General Aiyaz SayedKhaiyum said the new vehicles would allow Government to fully

equip its officers with the resources needed to extend services, especially to the rural areas. The Ministry of Health will get a healthy chunk, thats why we are saying it is important to get these

Fijis booth at the International Tourism Exposition (ITE) 2011 picked up two major awards at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Fijis presentation won first prize in a competition organised by UMagazine, which was calculated according to the most liked presentation through the social networking website, Facebook. Visitors to ITE 2011 were invited to click like on which presentation they enjoyed the most on the exhibitions facebook page with Fiji topping the poll when all likes were tallied. The Fiji booth also scooped the Most Impromptu Tour title, the award also based on online voting. Feedback received from judges awarding the decision indicated they had been overly impressed with the destinations portrayal of several of its key attractions and in particular, its beautiful beaches and ocean activities with shark diving at Beqa Lagoon getting a special mention. Fijis presentation was jointly mounted by Tourism Fiji, Air Pacific and industry partners including Rosie Holidays, Nukubati Private Island, The Pearl South Pacific Resort and Sheraton Fiji Resort.

Fiji union unrest gains ground

Fiji union unrest has spread here with its New were out for their own self-preservation. Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said leaders like Zealand unions vowing full support to their Fijian counterparts in the face restrictions Mr Anthony had used unions for their own benefit, initially supporting the interim govbeing imposed by the Fijian regime. The New Zealand Council of Trade ernment to further their careers. Meanwhile, Fiji's President is receiving Unions says itll step up action in support of Fiji unions if leaders like Felix Anthony are letters from pensioners, employers and emfurther victimised by the Fiji regime. Fifteen ployees calling on him to appoint a Commisunions met the senior Fiji Trades Union Con- sion of Enquiry into the country's pension fund. gress official in New Zealand on Monday. Earlier this year, the financially troubled He told them of increased intimidation of union workers by the Fiji military and in- Fiji National Provident Fund put forward a plan that would see old age pensions cut by creasing curbs on union activity. The secretary of the New Zealand Council up to 64 per cent. The planned cut has angered pensionPeter Conway said unions representing ers, who have maritime and airline legal workers may place Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum told Radio Fiji launched action in Fiji's bans or boycotts on services to Fiji and any that union leaders were portraying a High Court in an attempt to stop action may be brought forward if Mr Antho- false picture of the ground realities the FNPF from nys targeted when he in Fiji and said they were out for going ahead with it. On Monday returns home. their own self-preservation. afternoon, the Were not ruling High Court postaction out or in. Our poned its ruling preference would be that there is action but were a democratic on legal action taken by the government and movement and that has to be discussed with the pension fund to strike out the pensioners' members and were also aware that when you challenge. Over the weekend, the FNPF paid for take action of this sort you need to have broad newspaper advertisements claiming those public support. Mr Conway says hell seek support from opposing the cuts were a few self-interested the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to enable Mr individuals who are deliberately spreading false rumours. Anthony to return home safely. The FNPF said the pension cuts would go Fijis interim attorney-general has hit out at union leaders who he says are promoting ahead on September 1, with those below the sanctions which will hurt the grassroots of Basic Needs Poverty line exempt. Employers, pensioners and members of the FNPF have Fiji. Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum told Radio Fiji that turned to President Epeli Nailatikau, calling union leaders were portraying a false picture on him to establish an Independent Commisof the ground realities in Fiji and said they sion of Inquiry into Fund mismanagement.

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Indian Weekender | July 22, 2011 | www.iwk.co.nz

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Fiji

Fiji to try new approach to tourism Fiji ambassador elected

The different policies and decrees that have been endorsed by Cabinet is part of the new holistic approach taken by government towards tourism says the Attorney General and Minister for Tourism Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. Tourism is the single biggest revenue earner for Fiji and it is therefore prudent to take steps that not only benefits government coffers but also satisfies the tourists who come to Fiji to relax and enjoy the world famous Fijian hospitality. Over the past few years, tourist numbers have be increasing rapidly showing signs of confidence from visitors to come to Fiji. Tourism is not just about filling the hotel rooms which the approach was taken previously, he said. Tourism is about extracting the tourism spends in the different services. That is very very important. Mr Sayed-Kahiyum said the practice done previously went

I think with the increase in tourists numbers is a result of the products that we (Fiji) are offering and is finally reaping the rewards,
through an overhaul and the new products now are very competitive. Previously it was about filling

up the hotel rooms. Tourism is not about filling up the hotel room but how much money they spend in the local economy through handicrafts, rental cars, and visiting villages. Tourism Fiji Chief executive officer Josefa Tuamoto says increase tourist numbers were a sign that products such as the Fiji Me, Kava Me, Romance Me, Pamper Me, Dive Me, and Cruise Me among the many others were hitting the tourists. This is all paying dividends to the marketing strategy by Government though Tourism Fiji which oversees the whole tourism industry and the Ministry of Tourism. I think with the increase in tourists numbers is a result of the products that we (Fiji) are offering and is finally reaping the rewards, he said.

Revenue, Customs mop up $700 million

More than $700million in outstanding revenue was collected by the Fiji revenue and Customs Authority (FrCA) for the first six months in 2011.
FRCA chief executive officer, Mr Jitoko Tikolevu said the total collections up to June had exceeded the forecast of the authority by $30.3 million. Mr Tikolevu said the performance reflected FRCAs continued effort to improve revenue collections through robust compliance and enforcement initiatives. Total revenue collections of over $722 million were recorded as at June 2011 against the corresponding forecast of $692 million. This is an increase of 25 per cent for the same period last year where FRCA collected $577 million, he said. The improved 2011 collections were largely accrued to remarkable revenue performances on VAT, Income Tax, Departure Tax and Water Resource Tax. Collections from these revenue streams were significant and exceeded forecasts and Mr Tikolevu added the improved revenue collections were also a reflection of sound business performances over the first half of 2011. Mr Tikolevu added that although the corporate tax rates were reduced in 2011, total corporate tax collection remained buoyant. The solid collection was also assisted by improvements in economic growth, particularly the enhanced performances from Fijis real economic sectors. This massive growth rate also resembles the successful implementation of various government policies such as the Capital Gains Tax, Water Resource Tax and the increase in the VAT rate from 12.5 per cent to 15 per cent. Mr Tikolevu said that huge challenges remained for the next six months. The recovery of outstanding taxes remains a challenge to FRCA. The Tax Administration Decree (TAD) that was introduced last year has provided FRCA with additional instruments to counter tax evasion in Fiji. FRCA, however remains steadfast in ensuring that uncollected taxes are realised.

The Assembly of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) has elected Fijis permanent representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Peter Thomson, as its President for the ISAs annual session currently underway in Kingston, Jamaica. The Assembly is the supreme body of the ISA, consisting of delegations from 161 member states. Following in the footsteps of former Fiji Ambassador and ISA Secretary-General, Satya Nandan, Fiji has played a prominent role at the ISA since its inception. ISA was established by the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and Fiji was the first signatory to the Convention on 10th December, 1982. The International Seabed Authority is an autonomous international organization, to which state parties to the Convention are given the responsibility of organising, controlling and administering the resources of the international seabed beyond the limits of national EEZs. The executive body of ISA is the council made up of 36 member states elected by the assembly. In 2010, Fiji was re-elected to the Council to serve during the 2011-2014 term. Fiji is also currently represented on the ISAs Legal and Technical Commission which meets before the session in order to advise the Council. The main work before the ISA Assembly in the 11th -22nd July session is the consideration of the Secretary-Generals annual report, the election of the Finance Committee, and consideration and approval of the Councils recommendations. During this session, the Council will deliberate on the draft regulations on exploration for cobalt-rich ferromanganese crusts of the international seabed, and will consider the Legal and Technical Commissions recommendations regarding

world body president

four applications made to ISA for approval to explore specific areas of the international seabed. These applications have been made by China, Russia, Tonga and Nauru. In the case of Nauru and Tonga, both applications relate to plans of work for exploration for polymetallic nodules in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone on the international seabed of the mid-east Pacific Ocean.

Isa has elected Fijis permanent representative to the united Nations, ambassador peter thomson, as its president for the Isas annual session
The Council will also consider implications of the advisory opinion handed down by the Seabed Disputes Chamber in Hamburg on 1st February, 2011. Last year the ISA Council requested the Chamber to give an advisory opinion on the legal responsibilities and obligations of State Parties to the Convention with respect to sponsorship of seabed exploration and mining activities. As further evidence to its ongoing commitment to a responsible and precautionary approach to seabed mining, the Government of Fiji made an oral presentation to the Chamber in Hamburg in 2010 in the course of the Chambers hearings on this case. During the 2011 session, the Council will elect members for the Legal and Technical Commissions 2012-2016 term, for which Fiji has a

Business contributes to needy Fiji kids

The Foundation for the Needy Children (FENC) in Fiji, a non-political, non-profit voluntary organisation received another donation of $10,000 from J. Santa Ram (Stores) Ltd in Suva last week. The trading company made its first donation of $10,000 to FENC last year after the official launch by the Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama. The donation is in support of a call by the Prime Minister for individuals and business houses to pledge towards FENC charitable trust.FENC coordinator Mr Irshad Ali commended the generosity of Mr Jay Santa Ram and his company for their second contribution of $10,000. We have somebody who has been generous to the organisation and values children very much, particularly the poorest of the poor children, Mr Ali said. Mr Santa Ram and his company have always been supportive of our aim and this year again contributed another $10,000 towards the work of the foundation. Government has approved that individuals and business organisations making any cash donations to FENC Fiji of an aggregate amount up to $100,000 can claim this as a deductible expense. Managing director Mr Jay Santa Ram said they were committed to the good course of educating the poorest children in our society. My company, my family and my friends are all committed to FENC and I urge more people to come on board to support this very good initiative, Mr Santa Ram said. FENC chairwoman Mrs Teresa Apted said the work done by FENC was in line with the recommendation of the Peoples Charter for Change and Progress. When the charter was put up, Government saw one way of alleviating poverty is to get every child in Fiji educated and we supported that and this how the foundation was formed so that we ensure every poorest of the poor child gets educated, Mrs Apted said.

USP, Fiji TV in media student deal

Suva: The University of the South Pacific has signed a memorandum of understanding with Fiji Television Limited on the collaboration for the teaching and delivery of the television journalism course. The official signing was done by the Vice-chancellor of USP, Professor Rajesh Chandra, and Fiji TV group chief executive at USPs Laucala Campus earlier this month. The MOU will see USPs journalism students that are registered for the 200 level television journalism course, learn at Fiji TVs headquarters at Gorrie Street from July 25 until September 16 this year. Prof Chandra said the university acknowledged Fiji TVs support and commitment towards journalism and the media in the region. We here at USP appreciate the opportunity, through such collaboration, to co-teach the journalism television course which we believe will significantly contribute towards improving communications through the media, he said. As a result of this partnership, the journalism students will have an opportunity to learn from the media experts at Fiji TV. And they will experience the most advanced media techniques using the latest technologies and other facilities provided by the training department at Fiji Television Limited, he said. USP broadcast journalism lecturer Nash Sorariba said there were more than 20 television students registered on USPs regional television programme. Students will get an excellent chance to not only see professionals at work but learn from them in areas of theory work, camera work, editing and voice-overs and other things, he said. He said in the past there used to be the same number of students but the equipment and computers were not enough to cater for large number of students. Arin Kumar

students will get an excellent chance to not only see professionals at work but learn from them in areas of theory work, camera work, editing and voiceovers and other things

Indian Weekender | July 22, 2011 | www.iwk.co.nz

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Indian

Bollywood

Hrithik confirms to star in Agneepath in 5 min

Mumbai: Over 6 feet tall, deep voice, perfectionists, excellent actors in their respective genre of acting and thats where the similarities end. Being offered a role previously acted by Amitabh Bachchan, a legend of Indian cinema, is surely a scary experience. Anyone would be doubtful to take it up. Hrithik Roshan is no exception. Like the rest of us, Hrithik grew up watching Amitabh act in different roles. Acting in the remake of his film, with a comparison bound to occur, can be a strong motivation to say NO. And thats what he said to Karan Johar, the producer of Agneepath when it was first offered to him. But Karan Johar did not give up to Hrithiks denial, asked him to At least hear it. Karan Malhotra, the director, was asked to go to Spain and narrate the script to him, with a belief that Hrithik wouldnt refuse after hearing about it. Hrithik, the ever considerate and a person who hates waste of time felt guilty about his denial for a movie to his friend Karan and with the director, travelling all the way to Spain for a three hour talk. As Karan Malhotra started narrating the story, it started drawing Hrithik into its charm. An actor who is known to demand a retake of the shoot if it is not up to his satisfaction, who constantly while on break during shoot continues to rehearse the scenes in mind, had no trouble in imagining this as a future hit. A story inspired by a real individual and geographical basis (Mandva) and same names, after all, who can ever forget Vijay Dinanath Chauhan and Kancha? The change in Vijays journey and his completely different character treatment, made Hrithik attract to enact in the story completely. Adding his personal touch and the instincts which have made him a super star, it just took Hrithik precisely 5 minutes to say a YES to act in the movie. A challenge is now what is before Hrithik Roshan and so lets wait for Hrithik Roshan to come on screen with his Vijay Dinanath Chauhan persona, for the years most awaited Agneepath.

Mumbai: Though the most awaited film of this year is going to release next year, the look is out already and has created madness. Were talking about Dharma Productions upcoming film, Agneepath. Karan Johar announced late last night that the release date for the remake of Dharmas cult film, Agneepath, would be a couple of days after Duggus birthday, on 13th January 2012. Though fans were a little disappointed with the delay in release, Karan being Karan, knew how to bring the glory back. A few minutes after tweeting the release date, Karan tweeted a link that was to reveal Hrithiks look in Agneepath, humbly asking for a feedback on the same. In no time did the fans start flooding to the link, the official facebook page of the film - Agneepath, where Hrithiks look was exclusively revealed. the hulk, fiery very macho, awesome body & cant wait to see more of him were the kind of comments that flooded on the page. There is unbelievable sudden buzz on the official facebook page of the film now. By the look of it, Hrithik is smoking hot and the film is still one of the most awaited film this year. In fact, after yesterdays look release, more so. You can see for yourself, why so!

Ash hid pregnancy reports: Madhur

Mumbai: Bollywood filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar broke his silence over the anguish of discovering a pregnant Aishwarya Rai after starting the shooting of his most ambitious project Heroine and claimed that the actor had hidden the news of her pregnancy. The project has been halted after Ashs father-in-law Amitabh Bachchan tweeted last month that she is expecting to be a mother. Madhur said that he was shocked to know that Ash was expecting a baby. I am still reeling in a state of shock. But still chose to remain silent all these days; but was coerced into breaking my silence as I realized that truth deserved to be told, he wrote. Ash was all set to play the lead role in the film and announcements about it were made in the Cannes festival this year. Today I am sitting alone in my office after the plugs being pulled off from my film Heroine. My conscience stands clear as I have been honest to my craft irrespective of the repercussions. No which way would I have trampled my dream project on which I have given my sweat and blood for almost 1 and 1/2 years. This was going to be my most ambitious project of my career, he blogged breaking his silence. My inherent belief is that motherhood is pious and I am humbled by it. I must also add that I salute every woman who chooses to work in this extremely delicate state... In fact my wife, when she was carrying my daughter, worked through her pregnancy, but in the same breath I would like to say that I will never knowingly put a woman in harms way knowing the delicate nature of her health. My entire career stands on the strong pillars of women oriented films. This stems from the fact that I am sensitive to the entire aura and mystique of a woman and womanhood, he wrote. On one of the days, amongst the only 8 days shoot we did, one of my associate directors while rehearsing for the actress tripped and had a bad fall injuring himself. The terrain we were shooting was rocky. Today when I know the condition of my then lead actress and I shudder at the thought what if instead of my associate, she would have been the one to be injured; I would have suffered a major guilt throughout my life if anything were to happen to her on my guard and direction, he expressed in his blog. The film was announced in Cannes on 13th May while we commenced shooting on 7th June. There was a gap of 24 days even if we had known the truth behind the maternal state of the actress things could have been reworked keeping the state of matters in mind accordingly and this crisis could have been averted. The entire crisis would have taken a humungous shape had the truth not being unveiled when it was. With 65 days of shooting remaining. It would make the concerned actress 6-7 months pregnant. Cinema is a visual medium and keeping in mind the physical state of the actress, the total interpretation of the character of a diva and the story would land up in major jeopardy post 65 days of her pregnancy. This decision of pulling the plug had a devastating effect on me. It was like an avalanche collapsing on me, I was in a state of total shock and depression. I have been working on the script for almost a year and a half. I could not come to the office for almost 8 days for the fear of facing those people whose bread and butter depended upon the film because in true sense these people were the worst affected by the turn of

events,he wrote. It was a collective decision of the Producers of the film to pull off the plug on the current assembled project. It takes a heart of steel to take such a hard decision and it cannot be done on mere whims but stoic and solid reasoning, he mentioned. Earlier, It was reported that B-town actor Tabu had visited Madhur Bhandarkars house recently and consoled him in this difficult situation in life. Tabu had worked with the ace director in the film Chandni Bar in 2001. It was after ten years that she was spotted visiting Madhur Bhandarkars Kakkad Enclave residence in Khar.

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Indian Weekender | July 22, 2011 | www.iwk.co.nz

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Bollywood

Lucky back with Raasta Man

Aamir solves Bose DK controversy

New Delhi: B-town perfectionist Aamir Khan faced some tough moments as two Delhi-based contemporary artists alleged copyright infringement over the title of the track Bhaag DK Bose from the film Delhi Belly because they claimed it was alike to their art project designs titled BoseDK. The Contemporary artist duo, Jiten Thukral and Sumir Tagra, have made those series of oil on canvas paintings designs in 2003. Meanwhile in a press conference in New Delhi on Monday afternoon the two artists and Aamir Khan himself interacted over this issue and announced that the differences have been sorted out. I was sent a notice by Thukral and Dagra telling me I was doing something wrong. I was surprised, Aamir said. We met in Bombay in our home, we spent a lot of time together and finally understood their concern, Khan said. Meanwhile, Jiten Thukral said that they were surprised to see the use of the term DK Bose in the song. We were taken aback when we saw the terminology used in the song. We really felt it important to stand by out work, Thukral said. Aamir said that he was able to understand that the artists were not there to attack him. It has become a trend that every producer gets three to four notices. We thought it will be one of those. But once I met with both these boys I realized that they have no intention to harm me, Khan, who produced the movie, said. He also said humorously that it for this incident that he was able to meet the original BoseDK. The urban centric comedy Delhi Belly was released at the big screen on July 1 and has already made good market at the box office. The song Bhaag DK Bose is considered to be one of the most popular numbers of the year.

Mumbai: The man with a charm in the voice-Lucky Ali-is back and this time with his new album Raasta-Man. Raasta-Man is dedicated to all my fans who have greatly supported me all through my career and have displayed their love for my music, Lucky said at the launch of the album here on Thursday. Raasta-Mans music takes you on a soothing journey, which inspires one to live every moment to the fullest. Life is a journey and not a destination and this album personifies that sentiment. I would like to thank Ovations for giving me the opportunity to showcase my music,Lucky said. To promote the album, road shows are being organized from the first weekend of September with concerts in various cities. It will continue non-stop for three months ending in November.

All songs of Raasta-Man have been recorded at Sterling Studio in New York. While the album will be popularized through the grand multicity concerts, Lucky Ali has appointed media house UTV as the official music partner to make the album available across various mediums. Through this partnership with UTV, the album will be accessible on radio, television, Voice and other digital platforms. Ovations India is the producer of the album and host to the concerts and road shows, while Buenos Entertainment has been chosen to support Ovations on Sales, Marketing, Event Management, Logistics Management, Ticketing, Travel Management, Event Production& Backstage Management. Zubair Ali is the Tour Manager.

Force is under confusion

Mumbai: Umbrellas are up, sky is dim & streets are clogged with water. While India is already celebrating monsoon now, looks like film lovers might have to wait for a while for Johns upcoming, Force, the movie. The film starring John Abraham and Genelia DSouza, remake of a Tamil hit film, is supposed to be an action thriller directed by Nishikant Kamat. This is the same movie that got Genelia & John married accidently at the set during the shoot of their marriage scene in the film. News was that the priest was chasing the producer saying John & Genelia cant marry anyone else now. Though the film was supposed to be competing with Pankaj Kapoors Mausam, looks like Force is not going to release before May next year. There is no official comment on this yet but the film posters are saying THIS SUMMER. So, are they all buying time to file the divorce papers for John & Genelia? We wonder how Ritesh Deshmukh & Priya Marwah are reacting to this?

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Bollywood

Sulagna turns daredevil in Murder 2

Mumbai: Mahesh Bhatts upcoming film Murder 2, the sequel to Murder, is studded with lot of fresh things. Right from the thrilling script to hottest pairing of Emraan Hashmi & Jacqueline, it has it all. But what caught our attention is Bhatts new find - the very beautiful Sulagna, who makes her debut with Murder 2. Unlike other debutants, who have less scope to show their bit with the first film itself, Sulagna has a much significant role in director Mohit Suris sequel. The delicate looking lady will be seen doing some dangerous stunts. However, she never showed a sign of panic and with full gusto performed the daredevil stunts. Everyone from theMurder 2 team swears for her bravery. After all, the pretty petite, Sulagna comes from a very disciplined army family background and well acquainted to deal with it. Even Sulagna feels the reason behind her bold and fearless attitude comes from the fact that she has been brought up in the army environment. Says Sulagna, Yes, I think somewhere my exposure to army world proved very helpful to perform the stunts with much ease.

Sonam has very high fashion standards

Shahid Kapoor is flying highliterally. After all, he is playing an Indian Army pilot in his father Pankaj Kapurs directorial debut film Mausam. The actor chats up Correspondent Sreya Basu after releasing the first look of the film in Mumbai
What is Mausam all about? Mausam is about seasons of love. It is about the different emotions and situations that the two principal characters Harinder Singh (me) and Aayat (Sonam Kapoor)- undergo what seasons of love they go is the theme of the film. Is it true that you did not take up any new project till shooting for Mausam was over? Yes. It was wonderful that I could go through the entire process. Dad had written this film about three years back. He was pretty clear right at the beginning that whenever we do this film, I should not take up any other projects because the script requires certain graft as it is spread over certain period of time. The film required certain amount of authenticity and he wanted me to be completely in the film form. Thats why I took off everything else to have that time to go and do some research on being an aircraft officer. What research did you do for your role? I visited a few airforce bases, met a few airforce officers, sat in the aircraft, put on the jets suit, follow how they walk with a helmetall that which actually gives you some perspective to what it is to be representing the country and to be part of armed forces and to be an airforce pilot. And what did you learn? It will be very interesting for you to know that the value of an airforce pilot is Rs 300 crores on an averagethats the amount of money invested in each airforce officer over a period of time. I used to think that we heroes get all the good things, but our airforce officers are taken extremely good care of. They used to look at me and say: Haan yaar, tut oh hero haithi hai. They all have this attitude that is awesome because they are the real heroes. That was an enriching experience. I have changed as a person, as an actor as I have learnt to respect a lot of things that I used to take for granted so far. You are spotting a moustache in the film We started shooting this film two years back and dad (Pankaj Kapur) had told me to grow a moustache. I told him: Dad, yesteryear actors who used to grow moustaches. This style is not for me. But in these two years, I saw many of our present day heroes spotted moustaches. So now it feels nice that so many people thought about it in and around the same time. What was the most memorable experience you had while shooting the film? I flew an F-16 (fighter aircraft)I dont know of any other actor in the world who has flown an F-16. Tom Cruise too flew a fighter aircraft in Top Gun, but I think, that was an F-15. So, I am really fortunate to get that opportunity. Item songs have become almost indispensable in films. Do we see you groove in Mausam? I tried very hard to request dad that as an airforce officer of the Indian Army, I should be doing an item song where I expose my body and we should shoot it in and around an aircraft. But dad said he would not like to do anything like that in this film. Tell us about your chemistry with Sonam. We love and hate each other. And that is how we are. Sonam has very high fashion standards. She doesnt entertain people whose fashion standards dont match hers. Therefore, when you are shooting with her, you have to dress and look a certain way and get an approval of that from her. Fortunately throughout the making of this film, I tried to educate myself in all that.

Fed up of serial kisser image

emraan Hashmi is back to his serial kisser avatar in Murder 2 where he romances Sri Lankan beauty Jacqueline Fernandez. The actor chats up Sreya Basu in Mumbai
What made you go for a sequel of Murder? Murder was one of my bonafide successful films. It was a bold film with very clear components-sensuality, eroticism, murder mystery-which was quite shocking for the audience as well as critics at that time. But still it was one of the biggest hits of 2004. We thought of taking the theme-driven franchise forward. However, Murder 2 is not a sequel to Murder, but it belongs to a series of films. Its a new story with new characters. Its based on the relationship of friends of benefits. These two characters-Arjun and Priya (Emraan and Jacqueline) are in a non-committed relationship, who are unapologetic about the intimacy between them. Which one do you find betterMurder or Murder 2? I find Murder 2 much, much superior to Murder in many waysits more thrilling, more unpredictable, more sensuous, more bold. We worked harder on the script because today we have really smart audience who just after a few scenes know in which direction the film is heading and what the climax is going to be. So we made sure that this film keeps you on your toes and keep you guessing at interval and pre-climax points. There is more fancy in my character that I have played so far. How was it working with Jacqueline? You cant work on chemistry. As actors you work hard on your role, but not on chemistry with your co-actor. But going by the feedback from the audience after they saw the song promos, it seems they are liking Jacqueline and my chemistry very much. She has done a very, very good job in the film. Why will Murder 2 be a memorable film for you? The film will be a really memorable one for me. One of the reasons is, Mohit (Suri, director) generally makes us work 12 hours a day. But for this film, he made us work 17-18 hours a day in Goa. (Smiles) You have always gone for grey characters I have never played a chocolate hero, but a dark hero. In Murder 2 also there are grey shades in my character. Nowa-days the dividing line between hero and villain has been erased in our Hindi films. Today, a villains viewpoint is no longer unidimensional; people understand him. Do you feel bad with the serial kisser tag? I dont feel bad. Its just I am fed up being called a serial kisser. I hope the media finds something fine and more innovative, or doesnt call me anything at all. I will be happy with that. Ever tried to break out of it? After Murder, my image (as serial kisser) was set. If I would have something else, my career would have taken another path. But Murder being my first bona fide hit, it affected my career too much that time. The film was bold and sensuous, so people didnt notice other things. That somewhere rubs of and you get similar kind of films and that becomes a forte of you as an actor. But time and again, consciously I tried to break out of that image and do different kind of role, at the same time keeping this (image) as a strong point in my career.

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Bollywood

Children are loveliest gifts of nature

Sushmita Sen loves children. The actor, along with the finalists of I Am She beauty pageant, was recently seen having a good time with the kids of Sunil and Mana Shettys NGO Save The Children India at Bandra in Mumbai. Sreya Basu catches up with the ex-Miss Universe
What made you visit Save the Children NGO? There are so many hearing, speech or intellectually impaired children in India who are studying hard with hearing aids and other devices. So it (Save The Children India) is giving hope and a life which a lot of us can only dream to do. But they actually do it. We are really privileged that we were allowed to spend some time with the kids. What is the most memorable part of your visit to the NGO? I have made lots of lovely boyfriends (the kids at the NGO), who have been extremely affectionate. Dont miss this part. They just all clung to me. (Laughs) Is it mandatory for I Am She finalists to do charity works? It was important for us as all our three winners (of I Am She) work on different causes. Last year also, they achieved a lot of targets, we raised funds for our organizations. I am happy that this year too my girls are getting chance to interact with people and contribute towards the society. When they will win (the crown) this year, then for the next one year, they will have a target to raise up to Rs 10 lakh each fro corporates and events so that the money can go to an organization through I Am Foundation. So every year we do our homework to find out which organization is really working well in our country; who will actually spend the money on the welfare of the society. We are teaching the finalists of I Am She that you cant live alone in this world. You have to see everything in a big canvas so that they can realize that they are a small member of such a big country and a bigger world. So unless you make a difference in the world, you wont be a productive citizen of a country or world. Do you remember the first time you visited an NGO? Seventeen years back when for the first time I came to such an organization was in South America in Colombia. There the children couldnt speak my language and nor I could speak their lingo. But still I made so many friends there that even today, though the kids have grown up now, they remember me as Sush. So I believe that once

you make an impression in someones life, it lasts a long way. You are also associated with Salman Khans NGO Being Human I have a long relationship with Being Human, not just because its Salman Khans organization (as you have seen, we have always been part of any fund-raising events organized by it). But for me, its anybody who does good work, I will support them and would like to do through I Am Foundation.

You seem to go along with kids really well Children are the loveliest gifts of nature. We always complain that we dont have this or dont have that, but special children teach us either you mourn your defects and whats lacking or celebrate the gifts that God has bestowed upon you. As for me, I am used to carrying two babies on my lap. Aadat par jati hai. For any mother, carrying a kid on her lap is a natural and most beautiful posture.

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Column

Things you should know while starting or buying a business (Part 2)

ravI meHta
In the issue dated 17th June, I discussed the things you should know before you start a business and also if you are thinking about buying a business which is in rundown condition. Coming to buying a business that is running well, there are various advantages and disadvantages you should keep in mind before buying it. So before you finalize your purchase of business, you must look into the following1. Is the business of a type where the customers may be attached to a particular owner? Examples are trades people like plumbers, electricians and professionals like accountants, doctors, architects etc. 2. Go through Income, Expenses, margins of business of preceding few months/years. Note down trends and try to understand any abnormal trend. If sales and profitability has gone up few months prior to the business put to market for sale, make

The AdVANTAgES: - Existing customer base - Existing processes, suppliers chain - Existing assets base - income from day 1 The diSAdVANTAgES: - Higher initial cost being cost of goodwill - Sometimes customers are loyal only to particular owners and may leave and go elsewhere once the business is taken over by new owners.
thorough enquiries. Discuss the figures with an accountant and seek the expert opinion.

3. When will there be any replacement of assets required? How much will be capital outlay required? Will you have enough resources for it? Keeping in mind proposed expenditure; consider the price you are paying for business is justified. 4. See if there is any upside potential to the business. If there is not, it means there is only downside risk, then the Goodwill you are paying needs to be reconsidered. This is very important as sometimes first time buyers of business are thrilled to learn about the fact that the business is running at 100% capacity, failing to understand the downside risks involved. 5. See that there is good potential for business for years to come and how the business is positioned to cope with any challenges like new technology, competition, exchange rate fluctuations, imports, any potential legislative changes etc.

6. It is always best to use the services of professionals, use solicitor to go through legal documents like leases, trademarks, employment contracts of employees, use accountant to go through financial statements and other financial information. 7. Have a suitable business structure keeping in mind short and long term prospects. Understand fully advantages/disadvantages of different structures like sole proprietorship, partnership, trading trust, limited liability Company etc. If you are buying a Business Franchise, keep few additional things in mind. Though Franchise opportunities have many advantages like supply of knowhow, equipment, promotional material etc. by franchisor, also ease of building customer base due to brand name, still there are few issues which may be of concern to you and these are1. It involves cost. You may be re-

quired to pay a percentage of profits or percentage of sales to franchisor for as long as you are using the name of franchisor. 2. There may be restrictions imposed by franchisor in terms of area you can operate in, employment related matters, advertising etc. Normally overhead costs are higher in franchise business. 3. Sometimes franchise businesses may not be financially very sound. The fortunes of your business will also be tied to fortune of franchisor. So if you decide to go for franchise business, go for reputed and financially sound companies.

Ravi Mehta is an Auckland based Authorised Financial Advisor (AFA) and can be contacted on ravi.mehta@pfsl. co.nz. A disclosure statement under Securities Markets Act relating to his services is available on request and is free of charge.

Are you protecting the Goose or the Golden egg?

olIver pereIra
Running a business is never easy. There are so many things to consider, and chances are youre working long hours to make sure your business is a success and keep your customers coming back. Naturally you will appreciate the need to manage the risks you face every day. Chances are that you insure your premises, company vehicles, equipment and stock against fire, flood and theft. But have you stopped to think what would happen if you were to lose one of your most valuable assets: the people who make your business the success it is and that includes you. When youve worked closely with a colleague for many years building a business, its easy to take for granted the essential and valuable part they play and to assume theyll always be there. But what happens if they get sick, injured or even die? How would your business cope? Research has for some time shown that New Zealanders are under insured, but what is not so well known is that our business are even less protected. Whats more, the consequences can also be greater than in the case with personal insurance. If something happens to key person/ business owner, the impact can be disastrous. Not only can a business collapse, homes can be lost and, of course, employees lose their jobs. ACC research suggests 67% of businesses are forced to close owing to injury to a key person. (June 2006) Did you know that every business has three areas of vulnerability? 1. Business debt Nothing can cripple, or even sink, a business faster than the inability to pay loan instalments, tax bills, rent, salaries and suppliers. How would your business cope if key owners or employees were permanently out of the picture? Consider your financial obligations to: Financiers, IRD, Landlord, Staff, Creditors, Suppliers, Personal Guarantees 2. Business Continuity Productivity can be seriously disrupted when a key person becomes seriously ill, has an accident or dies. You need to think about: Buying in employees Replacing Profit Holding Market share Contractual Commitments Customer confidence Supplier Confidence 3. Business Owners Death or disability can force change on your ownership structure, making it necessary to draw down on cash reserves and assets. It is vital to formalise any shareholder/partnership cover through a buy/sell agreement to ensure capital is distributed as agreed. How would you eliminate ownership issues? Use cash Sell some assets Get a loan from the bank Pre-arrange funding So while you may have a great many balls to juggle, and be working extremely long hours, you still need to take time with your adviser to make sure you are prepared for anything. Otherwise your business and your dreams could literally disappear. The above information has been provided to serve only as a guideline to assist in evaluating your insurance needs. You are encouraged to do your own research or consult with your adviser before arriving at any decisions. Oliver Pereira is an Auckland based Insurance Advisor contact details are below. A disclosure statement as required under Financial Advisers (Disclosure) Regulation 2010 is freely available on request. Oliver Pereira OPM insurance Services ltd. Ph. 0800 66 77 92 faxmail. 021 551 669 Mobile. 021 66 77 92 Email. oliver.pereira@xtra.co.nz

Cherish a World Class Treatment and an hygiene environment in one of the Finest Beauty Clinic of New Zealand
40 Lincoln Road, Henderson, Auckland P: 09 908 2440 / 021 256 8484

www.shahnaz.co.nz

* Conditions apply

Indian Weekender | July 22, 2011 | www.iwk.co.nz

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Fashion & Beauty Why Cut Above Academy?

l Centrally located in Auckland CBD l NZQA Accredited and Internationally Recognized Qualifications l Multi-skills for Workplace with the diversity of qualifications l Resources and Student Support are unparalleled meeting the various industry needs l Hands on Practical Experience in clinics and salons

Backstage at Miss Saigon by

Cut Above Students in the Diploma in Makeup work as backstage crew for Amici Productions on at least two shows a year.

DIPLOMA IN BEAUTY SERVICES

QUALIFICATIONS OFFERED
BEAUTy ThERApy
National Certificate in Beauty Services (Beautician) Level 4 National Certificate in Beauty Services (Nail Technology) Level 4 National Certificate in Beauty Services (Electrology) Level 5 National Certificate in Beauty Services (Body Therapy) Level 5 Diploma in Beauty Therapy Level 5 ITEC, CIDESCO International examinations

PATHWAY TO SKILLED EMPLOYMENT

Following on from Cats and 42nd St in 2010, this years class recently completed the three-week season of Miss Saigon at the Civic Theatre and they go into pre-production in August for the Amici production of Cole Porters Anything Goes again at the Civic. Those of us who were around in the 1970s will remember the heartbreaking images of babies fathered by American GIs, abandoned when the men were repatriated home. It was one of these images - the photo of a Vietnamese mother leaving her baby at the departure gate at Tan Son Nhut Airbase to give the child the chance of a better life with his ex-GI father in America which inspired the partnership behind

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Les Miserables to create Miss Saigon. Based on Puccinis opera Madam Butterfly, it relates the tragedy of an Asian woman abandoned by her American lover, who sacrifices her beloved son - and ultimately her own life- to ensure his future. Updated from 19th century Japan to the closing years of the Vietnam War, the ill-fated romance of Puccinis American Lieutenant and Japanese Geisha is replaced by the doomed love affair of an American GI and a Vietnamese bar-girl, but the central idea of both tales is selfsacrifice. All this visual virtuosity pre-

+64 9 309 0689 www.cutabove.ac.nz

ENROL NOW
TreATMeNTS For Dry Skin
Morning: 1. Apply Shadew as a Cleanser. 2. Apply Shawhite 3. Cover face with Shabase / Shaglow. Night : 1. Apply Shadew as a cleanser. 2. Massage with Shalife and Wipe off. 3. Tone skin with Sharose 4. Apply Shablem on patches and leave on. Afternoon : Home Pack: 3 tsp Shaface, 2 tsp Shafresh, 2 drops Shableach, 1 Egg Yolk, 1 tsp Honey, 2 tsp curd. Make into a paste and apply. Wash off when dry. Note: You can refrigerate any remainder of this paste for next day. If it gets dry, add milk or curd and use. Wash face and apply Shasilk / Shabase. For more advice on the treatment or products offered by Shahnaz Husain NZ, Contact BINDu (CIBTAC, International Qualified Beauty Therapist and Diploma in Shahnaz Husain, India)

sented a challenge for the students to match. In preparation, they researched the musicals history, studied other productions on the internet, attended pre-production meetings with the cast and director, and produced storyboards of make-up designs for the production designers approval. Led by their tutor, students provided hair and makeup services for publicity shoots and television interviews, and make-up application, hairstyling, and dressing assistance over the full three-week season. As a result of this continuing professional induction, and its huge network of industry contacts, the Cut Above graduates are out there in force, carving out stellar careers in top salons, makeup companies, and beauty spas or working as freelance artists on a variety of TV, film, and fashion productions. One of the Miss Saigon team has been offered an interview with Shortland Street, previous graduates are working on Spartacus, for Weta Workshop, for TVNZ, or running their own production design businesses.

hAIRDRESSINg

Certificate in Hairdressing Level 3 Certificate in Hairdressing Level 4

MAkEUp ARTISTRy
Certificate in Makeup Level 4 Diploma in Production Design Level 5

ONCE OFF OPPORTUNITY. PRICES SLASHED For International Students ENQUIRE NOW. PLACES FILLING FAST www.cutabove.ac.nz Ph:+64 9 3090689

Clinical and professional treatment on weekly sessions is advised depending on the degree of the dis-order. To get your face evenly toned glowing, Bindu (The Shahnaz Husains expert) recommends a special treatments she offers at her Ayurvedic Beauty Clinic in Henderson along with home treatment products as suggested:

Beauty tips

For Oily Skin

Morning: 1. Wash face with Shazema 2. Mix Shagrain with Sharose and rub gently. Wash off. 3. Apply Shawhite on patches and cover with Shabase/Shasilk. Night: 1. Wash face with Shazema 2. Dab Sharose 3. Moisture skin with Shasilk. 4. Apply Shablem on patches and leave on. Afternoon : Home Pack: 3 tsp Shaface, 2 tsp Shafresh, 2 drops Shableach, 1 Egg White, 1 tsp Honey, 2 tsp curd. Make into a paste and apply. Wash off when dry. Note: You can refrigerate any remainder of this paste for next day. If it gets dry, add milk or curd and use. Wash face and apply Shasilk / Shabase.

Skin Pigmentation
Again, this is one of the most common skin disorder seen in New Zealand. What is Skin Pigmentation? Skin Pigmentation is a variation in skin colour which appears as dark patches on the skin surface.

CAuSe

Skin Pigmentation is due to the amount of melanin deposits in the skin, resulting in a diffused or circumscribed staining of the skin, which may show up as a dark patch on the skin surface. The root cause of this can be internal due to internal imbalances which causes the increase in production of Melanin in the body. Exposure to the sun also adds to the increase of production of melanin in human body thus resulting dark patches on the skin surfaces which is called as Skin Pigmentation.

Shahnaz Husain The Ayurvedic Beauty Clinic

40 Lincoln Road, Henderson, Auckland. P : 09 9082440 E : info@herbalbeautyproducts.co.nz

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DIPLOMA IN BEAUTY SERVICES

PATHWAY TO SKILLED EMPLOYMENT

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
+64 9 309 0689 www.cutabove.ac.nz

ENROL NOW

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Column

Whats your Gut Feeling?

varsHa asraNI

Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine has stated that All disease begin in the Gut.
If the gut is healthy, so is the rest of the body. Generally, people understand that diet has an impact on their gut. However what we dont realise is that our lifestyle can have an impact on the digestive health too! In the human body, a healthy gut has primarily three functions - digestion of the food, absorption & distribution of nutrients and prevention of toxins from entering the body. Many of us suffer from gut problems like indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, gastric reflux, stomach upsets, constipation, diarrhoea, and excess wind or flatulence etc. Most times we ignore the symptoms and pass this off stating this is normal or will pass away, however to understand and address this we need to look at our digestion process. The process of digestion begins in the mouth, where our teeth and tongue grind the food, enzymes in saliva help to chemically break it down, food then travels down a tube called the oesophagus or food pipe, it then enters the stomach, where it is mixed with gastric juices that contain enzymes and acid, the acid kills bacteria, and helps the enzymes to break down the food this then passes into the small intestine, where it is broken down into nutrients small enough to be absorbed into the body. Absorption takes place along the inner surface of the small intestine, which serve to increase the surface area across where the nutrients can be absorbed. What causes the imbalance? The reasons for a disturbed gut could be varied - Stress, drugs (antibiotics), excessive alcohol, unhealthy diets or even natural ageing process, the reason could be many causing gut discomfort. Eating the right foods can help to keep the digestive system in good working order and prevent any digestive disorders. So what are the right foods? Include whole grain varieties of staple foods (rice, pasta, bread and cereals) in your daily diet; a mix of soluble and insoluble fibre helps the food transit through the digestive system more easily. It is good to start your day with wholegrain flakes or grainy muesli or even porFive plus a day is ideal and where possible eat them raw or with skin on. Dairy foods like yoghurt are beneficial to the gut and also add protein and calcium to your daily diet. Remember the gut works 24 hour - round the clock, as long as the system is running smoothly... All is well. A well functioning gut helps us to resist disease and infection as this strengthens our immune system that is stimulated by intestinal bacteria. So take notice of your Gut Feeling... Eat Right and Feel Great....till next time take care, be healthy and active. This article is a general guideline ONLY, if you have any medical condition and for individual conditions you should consult a health professional or your medical practitioner immediately. ridge, use wholemeal / whole grain bread and wholemeal rice or pasta for meals. Beans, lentils or split peas are other food groups that benefit the gut, add these regularly in salads, meat dishes, or in casseroles. Add barley to homemade soups and stews. Fruits and vegetables consist of both soluble and insoluble fibre, Varsha Asrani is a New Zealand Registered Dietitian. For personal consultation or any question, suggestion or views please email her on info@varshaasrani. com.

reCIpe

By Ruby Dhillon

BLACK FOREST ROLL

METHOD
Pre heat oven to 180c Gas mark 3. Grease 25cm x 30cm (10inch x 12inch) swiss roll pan, line base and sides with baking paper. Sieve flour and cocoa powder together and keep aside. Beat the eggs and sugar together with electric mixer until mixture is very thick and creamy. Mix gently the flour/cocoa with the egg/ sugar mixture with a plastic spatula then add the 1 tbsp boiling water. Do not mix using an electric mixer or do not mix vigorously. Pour and spread the mixture evenly into the prepared swiss roll pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, taking it out as soon as the center of the sponge springs back when pressed lightly with a finger. Quickly loosen the sponge cake from the sides of the pan, and turn it out on to a clean piece of fine muslin cloth that has been wetted, then wrung out as dry as possible . Lift the baking paper off the sponge and roll up the sponge cake and cloth together, lightly but firmly. Stand the roll still in the cloth on a rack until cold.

For Filling:
Whip the cream with the electric mixer in a bowl until it starts to thicken then gradually beat in the icing sugar and vanilla essence until the mixture begins to hold its shape. Add Rum essence to 2tbsp of Cherrie syrup. Remove seeds from the cherries and keep aside. Then unroll the sponge carefully and soak it evenly with cherry syrup, spread the surface with the fresh whipped cream and spread some deseeded cherries, roll up again without the cloth. Cover the roll completely with the whipped cream on all the sides and the top. Make swirls with the cream in a line on top of the roll as shown in the picture and place a cherry on each swirl. With the help of a Potato- peeler, start peeling the back side of the chocolate on to a plate and lovely flakes will be ready. Put chocolate flakes on the side and around.

INGREDIENTS
cup- caster sugar 3- Eggs cup- plain flour 2tbsp- cocoa powder 1tbsp- boiling water 1- dark milk chocolate cup-cherries tsp- rum essence 2tbsp- cherry syrup

For Filling:
2 cup- Cream 2tbsp- icing sugar tsp vanilla essence

Tip: The recipe is of a reduced fat cake as it does not use butter and such sponge cakes should not be stored and hence consumed within a day or two for best taste and texture.

Indian Weekender | July 22, 2011 | www.iwk.co.nz

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Indian Weekender | July 22, 2011 | www.iwk.co.nz