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10 October 2014

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The Pulse of Kiwi-Indians

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www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

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Light up your life this weekend

(Oct 11 & 12, 2014) with
Auckland Diwali Festival
at Aotea Square

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Orange

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

MODI TSUNAMI: The tidal wave of change

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Modis charisma has grown into a tidal wave. The world gazes in awe as the Prime Minister of India unravels his genius
every day. In celebration of this legendary man, Indian Weekender brings you this special feature to help you know the man
a little better. We begin with some quick facts on Modi, followed by the laurels he gathered on his trip to the US, the style
icon that he has become and the heart that he wears on his sleeve

Maya Shivam
I am a very optimistic man, and only an
optimistic man can bring optimism in the
country.
NarendraModi
Narendra Modi grew up poor in northern
India. He entered politics as a youth and
quickly rose through the ranks of Rashtriya
Swayamsevak Sangh, a Hindu nationalist
political party. In 2014 he was elected
Prime Minister of India.
His Early Life
Narendra Modi was born in the small
town of Vadnagar, in northern Gujarat,
India. His father was a street merchant
who struggled to support the family. Young
Narendra and his brother sold tea near a bus
terminal to help out. Though an average
student in school, Modi spent hours in the
library and was known as a strong debater.
In his early teens, he joined Akhil Bharatiya
Vidyarthi Parishad, the student wing of
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a
Hindu nationalist political party.
Modi married at 18 but spent little time
with his bride and eventually ended the
marriage. He dedicated his life to politics
in Gujarat. In 1978, Modi graduated from
Delhi University with a degree in political
science and completed his masters work at
Gujarat University in 1983.

QUICK FACTS
FULL NAME
Narendra Damodardas Modi
OCCUPATION
Prime Minister of India
BIRTH DATE
September 17, 1950 (age 64)
EDUCATION
Delhi University, Gujarat University
PLACE OF BIRTH
Vadnagar, India
ZODIAC SIGN
Virgo

In 1987, Narendra Modi joined the

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His rise through
the ranks was rapid, as he wisely chose mentors
to further his career. He promoted privatization
of businesses, small government and Hindu

values. In 1995, Modi was elected BJP national

secretary, a position from which he successfully
helped settle internal leadership disputes,
paving the way for BJP election victories in
1998.

In February 2002, while Modi served as

chief minister of Gujarat, in response to a
violent incident, Modi imposed a curfew
granting police shoot-to-kill orders. After
peace was restored, Modis government
was criticized for the harsh crackdown.
Narendra Modi was re-elected chief
minister of Gujarat in 2007 and 2012.
Through those campaigns, he spoke more
about economic growth. He is credited
with bringing prosperity and development
to Gujarat and is seen as a corruption free
and efficient administrator.
In June 2013, Modi was selected to head
the BJPs 2014 election campaign to the
Lok Sabha, while a grassroots campaign
was already in place to elect him Prime
Minister.
Modi campaigned hard, portraying
himself as a pragmatic candidate capable of
turning around Indias economy.
In May 2014, he and his party were
victorious, taking 282 of the 534 seats in
Lok Sabha.
The victory marked a crushing defeat
to the Indian National Congress, which
had controlled Indian politics for most of
the previous 60 years, and sent a message
that Indias citizens were behind an agenda of
radical change.

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

Madness in Madison

he world watched as the Indian Prime

Minister Narendra Modi connected with
thousands of rapturously cheering Indian

diaspora at Madison Square Garden in New

York, promising them he would deliver on the
electoral promise of a resurgent India and urged
them to join in the mass movement to work for
their country.
Addressing a 20,000-strong crowd at the
venue - that has seen former US Presidents and
rock stars take to the stage but never an Indian
politician - and also thousands watching the
event live outside on giant screens, and millions
back home and around the world on TV and
internet, Modi announced relief measures
for the diaspora, including lifelong visas for
Persons of Indian Origin cardholders and the
merger of the PIO and Overseas Citizenship of
India (OCI) schemes with a new scheme to be
announced soon.
Speaking in his unique style in Hindi for
almost an hour, and attired in cream kurtapyjama and a light orange jacket, Modi praised
the Indian diaspora for its contribution to IT,
saying India was no longer considered a land of
snake charmers but of software wizards. Our
forefathers maybe would play with snakes, but

we play with the mouse (computer mouse), he

said, to wild cheers.
He played on peoples heartstrings as the
crowd chanted Modi, Modi throughout his
speech, the Prime Minister said his government
will not leave any stone unturned to fulfil the
expectations of the people. He promised that
he would never do anything to let them down.
The crown erupted as Modi stated that the 21st
Century is our century.
He said India is at an opportune cusp
of circumstances, blessed with a vibrant
democracy, with 65 percent of its people under
the age of 35, and a market of 1.25 billion
people and will scale new heights in the near
future.
These three things are present in one
country; this is not there anywhere else in the
world. And on the basis of this India will cross
new heights - it is my belief, said Modi as
the crowd chanted, clapped and cheered every
time the Prime Minister made a good point and
appealed to their patriotism.
He proposed that the diaspora should join in
the efforts to rebuild the country, a vikas jan
andolan or a mass movement for development
- in helping in any way they could. Referring to
the skill development that his government has
launched for the youth, he said his government
has created a skill development ministry and
would invite other countries to join in the effort.
He also referred to the Make in India
campaign the government launched ahead
of his US visit to invite investments and to
manufacture in India as also the sanitation
campaign to make a Clean India, a movement
which he said would gladden the hearts of
Indians abroad who often get turned away by
Indias pervasive squalor.

LEGAL ASSOCIATES

Red

He asked the Indian diaspora to connect

with him directly online and also asked them to
join in the endeavour to clean the Ganga river.
Modi announced visa-free arrival for US
tourists in India and that Indian missions in the
US would grant long term visas to US citizens,
which was widely welcomed by the Indian
Americans.
Prime Minister Modi spoke from a revolving
stage to the 20,000 strong audience, the tickets
for which had been sold out days ago. Amongst
the audience were also the Manhattan crme
de la crme and numerous members of the
Congress who were awed at the power and
popularity that this one man commands.
Indian Weekender spoke to some leading
Indians who were in attendance that day and
we have also received some pictures clicked at
the venue (courtesy of Roshni Media Group,
New York)
An excited president of the Roshni Media
Group, Mani Kamboj, stated, He is a complete
Rockstar so inspirational. The entire Indian

(Clockwise) Modi at Madison Square

Garden;Black
Eclectic gathering;
Modi
Orange
supporters Nish and Mani Kamboj

Diaspora is here and are thrilled!

The CEO and founder of Kamteil Software,
Nish Kamboj, stated, Inspiring, exhilarating
and a new path to India! I am so happy to be
here.

Kamna Misra, director, Research and

Development at Celvive, stated, What positive
vibes. An indication of the future of IndoAmerican business alliance.

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

Modi-Obama summit can take ties to next level: US experts

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everal US policy experts, including a former

key Clinton administration official, see the
upcoming US visit of Indian Prime Minister
Narendra Modi as an opportunity to take IndiaUS ties to the next level.
The Obama administration sees the recent
election of Modi-led majority government
in India as an opportunity to take the
relationship to the next level, writes Strobe
Talbott president of the Brookings Institution,
who served as President Bill Clintons deputy
secretary of state.
Talbott, who engaged Indias then external
affairs minister Jaswant Singh to end Indias
nuclear isolation after Indias 1998 nuclear tests,
has outlined the opportunities and challenges
that lie ahead in an India-US Policy memo with
Tanvi Madan, director of the Brookings new
India Project.
President Barack Obama, they say, would
like to see the strong, developed, and inclusive
India that actively engages with the global
community that Prime Minister Modi has

promised.
The administration has repeatedly asserted
that even though India and the US will not
always agree, Indias rise is unquestionably
a net positive for the prospects for peace,
progress, and prosperity in the 21st century.
But the overarching challenge that lies
ahead is translating the opportunities in the
relationship into outcomes, the potential into
performance and progress, Talbott and Madan
write.
This will require action on both sides; as
the Hindi saying goes, taali ek haath se nahin
bajti (you cant applaud with one hand), they
write.
It will also call for compromises, as well
as patience with and understanding of the other
sides constraints.
Finally, it will require giving each other
the benefit of the doubt when things get tough,
managing differences, and seeing each other
as part of the solution and not just part of the
problem-at the bilateral, regional, multilateral,

and global levels, Talbott and Madan added.

Lisa Curtis, senior research fellow at The
Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank,
agrees saying the stage is set for a successful
Modi visit to Washington.
But the White House must guard against
allowing the myriad international crises
happening around the globe to overshadow the
visit and weaken Indo-US bilateral ties.
Engaging with a strategically likeminded partner such as India takes on greater
importance as the US grapples with multiple
global challenges, Curtis wrote.
US-India cooperation is particularly
important when it comes to countering
international terrorism and maintaining a stable
balance of power in the Asia Pacific, she
wrote.
During the visit, President Barack Obama
should demonstrate the importance the US
attaches to the bilateral relationship and offer
cooperation on economic, defence, and security
issues, Curtis suggested.
Dr. Joshua Meltzer, a fellow in Global
Economy and Development at the Brookings
Institution emphasises that, despite the
impressive growth in the economic
relationship, there remains significant room for
improvement.
Noting that there are significant
opportunities for India and the US to deepen
the bilateral trade and investment relationship,
he recommends among other things committing
to a deadline to conclude a Bilateral Investment
Treaty.
Developing a dialogue with Indian
regulators to address how Indias Decade
of Innovation can be supported by stronger
protection and enforcement of intellectual
property rights, Meltzer suggests.

He also wants the Obama administration

to affirm its support for extending access to
H-1B visas for students having completed
postgraduate US degrees.
Noting that Indias new government
has yet to develop its trade policy, Meltzer
suggests developing a dialogue with India
as to what Indian economic reforms could
facilitate it joining either the TPP (Trans-Pacific
Partnership) or the TiSA (Trade in Services
Agreement) should it wish to do so.

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

Cleansing of the soul at Mata ki Chowki

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Swati Sharma

en-day long excitement and festivity of Navratri ended on a high with Mata ki Chowki, Garba and Bhangra at Shri Shirdi Saibaba Sansthan in Auckland. This Navratri witnessed big gatherings
throughout the 10 days of the festival. As Garba plays an important role in Navratri celebrations, the Sansthan had specially called up two garba singers from India: Bhavesh Mehta of Mumbai
and Unnathi Barot of Gujarat, who created an environment of joy and enthusiasm with their live singing.
On the last day of the festival, Mata ki Chowki was organised by Shivani Arora, owner of India Gate restaurant. The chanting of mantra for Goddess Durga and singing of hymns created an aura
of divine positivity that made people feel the presence of piousness. NZ Firsts Kiwi-Indian MP, Mahesh Bindra, also joined the celebrations on the last day. He launched the quarterly publication of
the temple, called Sai Sumiran and also honoured the devotees and sponsors of the Navratri festival.

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

Honouring wealth and prosperity at ANZ ATM

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Swati Sharma

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he Indian community dressed in traditional

attire, with classic Bollywood songs
playing in the background, gathered in
Auckland Central to welcome the festival
of lights. The occasion was the Diwali ATM
launch, for which ANZ New Zealand has
commissioned special themed frontages for
ATMs in six centres.
These Diwali themed ATM
designs are created by former
Indian Weekender designer,
Tanmay Desai, and were
launched
on
Friday
October 3, to recognise
Dussehra, an important
Indian festival which
indicates the beginning of
Diwali.
The frontages installed
at 11 ANZ ATMs in Auckland,
Wellington, Tauranga, Hamilton,
Te Puke and Christchurch, will be on
display during the month of October.
According to Desai, his design focused
on the lotus the chosen flower of Lakshmi,
Goddess of wealth and prosperity. It also
happens to be part of ANZs logo. Ive used
an abstract lotus pattern to form the basis the
design along with koru shapes to symbolise the
harmonious merging of our Kiwi and Indian
cultures, said Tanmay.
The design also has a handcrafted typography
that reads Shubh Deepavali, which translates
to happy and auspicious Diwali wishes.
ANZ started the trend of themed ATMs from
this years Matariki, the Maori New Year.
We want to do more to celebrate other
cultures and communities that contribute to our
companys and New Zealands diversity.

Well also look to create

designs to celebrate Chinese
New Year and Gay and Lesbian
Pride,
saidANZs
Head
of Corporate Affairs, Peter
Parussini.
Indians are one of ANZs five
staff affinity groups along with
Mori and Pasifika,
Asian,
Pride
and
Flexible
Working
Parents
- all are
encouraged
to be themselves
at
work.
ANZs
I n d i a n
Networking
Group will host
staff Diwali events in
Auckland and Wellington this
month, as well as customer
events across the country. ANZ
will once again sponsor the
Waitakere Diwali Festival.
Diwali is fast becoming an
integral part of New Zealand
culture. Showcasing the culture
through a unique art where
customers can see and feel the
fusion of two cultures is a great
opportunity for New Zealand
public to embrace our growing
diversity, said Sunil Kaushal,
Head of India Relations, ANZ
Bank.

Raksha Bandhan
in Wellington

al Vikas Schools in Wellington hosted the

celebration of Raksha Bandhan (Rakhi)
as part of the Wellington chapter of Hindu
Organisations, Temples and Associations at
Moera Community Hall.
Raksha Bandhan is held on Shravan
Purnima, and this year the full moon
(Purnima) was extra special because it was a
super moon that lit up the sky with its extra
brightness. It will be another 20 years before
the moon will be as close to the earth.
Over 150 individuals representing 17
organisations participated in the event. (It
began with a puja and Rakhi tying led by
Pundit Maniram Sharma. The celebration
saw cultural and folk performances by
representatives of Bhutan, Phillipines and
Nepal in addition to Hindu diaspora from
various states of India, and from different
parts of the world where Hindus have settled.

Graphic designer Tanmay Desai unveiling the Diwali ATM design;

(top) Sunil Kaushal (second from left) with ANZ team

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

Kirtan, Gatka, Kavishri by Khalsa kids

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Gurudwara Sri Kalgidhar Sahib Takanini and Supreme Sikh Society of NZ celebrated a two-day Sikh Childrens Day 2014 - Open to All

Aman Banipal
On 4th and 5th October, 2014, Gurudwara
Sri Kalgidhar Sahib Takanini and Supreme
Sikh Society of New Zealand, held its biggest
and most successful event of the year Sikh
Childrens Day 2014 Open to All.
The event started off with an Ardaas (prayer)
and a short appearance by Judith Collins and
MP Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, who honoured
a long serving teacher Jaspal Kaur for her
incredible stint of 25 years of teaching at the

Sikh Heritage School.

Some key highlights:
Last year the entries were around 230
this year entries were 540!
All the kids who attended the two days
will get a free trip to Rainbows End on 11th
October, 2014!
This Event was Open to All kids from any
background.
Close to 600 children turned up on both
days to take part and compete in Kirtan, Sikh
Art, Speech, Gurbani Recitation, Turban Tying,

Gatka (Sikh Warrior Martial Arts) and Kavishri

(a traditional form of storytelling). Enthusiastic
kids were dressed up in traditional Khalsa
attire and looked like flowers that had just
blossomed. The Sea of Orange (Khalsa colour)
with little warriors running around was just
splendid to witness and mesmerised the various
community organisations present at the event
including New Zealand Police, Sikh Womens
Association, Womens Care Trust and many
other local businesses, including BNZ and
Bank of India.

Support from the community was

overwhelming with over 200 volunteers who
helped make this event a super success. Kids
enjoyed their Customised Langar which
included candy floss, popcorn, cereals and
fruits for breakfast. Dragon Community Trust,
Blue Sky Community Trust, Dilbag Singh
Bagga, Clendon Dental and IndoSpice made
huge monetary contributions to Sikh Childrens
Day 2014 and Supreme Sikh Society of New
Zealand feels indebted for their support.

Images courtesy of Davinder Ghuman

Orewa's Vibrant Seaside Town Centre

4 Hillary Square, Orewa, Auckland

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income of $267,104pa. Full tenancy details are available on request. The strength of the
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4pm, Thursday 23rd October 2014
29 Northcroft Street, Takapuna
Auckland, New Zealand
Deep Purohit
M +64 21 190 9494
B +64 9 489 0981
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M +64 274 815 505
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Licensed under the REA Act 2008

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

Eids like this only

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Mohamed Ali

Orange

round 5,000 Muslims gathered at Alexandra Park for the seventh bi-annual Auckland Eid Day
celebrations. The event provides an opportunity for all Muslims within the Auckland region
to gather for the celebrations of Eid Al-Adha, one of the two annual Islamic festivals. The day
marks the end of the Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, where Muslims commemorate
and celebrate prophet Ibrahims full obedience to God. Muslims around the world celebrate this
occasion.

The day started off with an outdoor prayer conducted t 8:45am followed with the opening of
the Eid Market. A diverse collection of food and educational stalls were present to show off the
different cultures within the Muslim community. There were also games and a petting zoo for the
kids to enjoy throughout the day.
Praying outdoors has always been considered a dream for local Muslims, as Auckland weather
has never been predictable enough to allow us to set up outside, Auckland Eid Day operations
manager Javed Dadabhai says. Dadabhai goes on to add, despite not having electricity throughout
the day, the overall event was a success with a smile on everyones face.

Raavanas rage doused on Dussehra

Swati Sharma

he victory of truth over evil was revisited with the Dussehra celebrations. In spite of unfavourable
weather conditions, the Indian community witnessed the first-ever Raavana dahan in Auckland
on 4th October. Maa Durga Temple Manukau and Humm Fm radio co-organised the event, which
turned out be a big success. After the Ramlila and other cultural activities, Raavanas effigy, filled
with firecrackers, was lighted up. The rain and the cold winds could not douse the excitement of the
people who enjoyed the festival with great enthusiasm till the end at Barry Curtis Park, Auckland.
On behalf of Maa Durga Temple Manukau, managing trustee, Vijay Gulati, thanked all the sponsors
and committee members for funding, helping in the organization of the festival.

10

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

Kiwi-Indians observe Gandhi Jayanti

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His Excellency Ravi Thapar - High Commissioner of India to New Zealand, Mrs. Thapar, Wellington
Mayor - Celia Wade Brown, National MP Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi and Naginbhai Neil Patel at
Wellington railway station for Mahatma Gandhis 145th birthday anniversary

ShantiNiwascelebrated United Nations

International Day of Older Persons

The United Nations International Day

of Older Persons is celebrated annually
on October 1 to recognize and honour the
contributions of older persons and to focus
on the much needed spotlight on the issue
of ageing.ShantiNiwasCharitable Trust

organised this event in commemoration of this

International Day on 27thSeptember 2014 at
its centre in Onehunga which was attended
by nearly 400 people including seniors, their
families, dignitaries and community. The guests
of honour included Hon., Phil Goff, MP Labour
party, Dame Susan Devoy, Race Relations
Commissioner, Mr. Bakshi, MP, National party,
Asma Bashir, Office of Ethnic Affairs etc.

There were multicultural performances and

food stalls. This years celebration was in the
spirit of leaving no one behind and promoting
a society for all says the Nilima Venkat,
Project Manager.This day is also celebrated to
highlight the importance of our seniors, their
knowledge, wisdom and life experiences, to
recognise their fundamental human rights, the
diversity in the situation of older persons, and
create opportunities for them toparticipateand
contribute to the ongoing activities of society.
ShantiNiwasCharitable Trust Inc, a
non-profit organisation, has a long history
of 20 years of working with senior citizens
of Indian and South Asian origin living
in the Auckland region.Our Mission is to
make visible signs of hope, empower those
whom society has neglected and celebrate
change and diversity.ShantiNiwasservices
includedelivering Positive Ageing Day
Programmes in Wider Auckland region,
counselling, advocacy, translation services,
help toaccess health related practical assistance
etc, KHUSHI-Elder Abuse prevention service.

Malayali Samajam volleyball tournament

he Auckland Malayali Samajam convened

Annual Volleyball Tournament, ACE14
on Saturday t4th October at YMCA, 5 Pearce
St, Onehunga, Auckland. It turned out to be
another successful tournament with some
scintillating
performances
and
awesome results.
In over 50 sets of games, players
endured
some
nerve-racking
moments in some of the pool games
and in final. There was a record crowd
turned out to cheer up the boys and that

Valuable Player- Alvin Alex, Papatoetoe

Strikers; ACE 14 Best offensive PlayerPrasanth, Aim Club A; ACE 14 Best defensive
Player- Lalit Aarya, Black Spike
Newly elected Member of Parliament;
Dr.Parmjeet Parmar was our Guest of
honour for our prize giving ceremony
for this event. On her keynote
address, Dr. Parmar was very much
appreciative of the excellent effort
by Malayali Samajam in bringing
communities together for a sporting

made a huge difference to lift their high spirits

for achieving exceptional results.
ACE 14 Winner- AIM Club A team led
by Shaju Joseph; ACE 14 Runner-Up- Black
Spike led by Lalit Aarya; ACE 14 Most

event. Dr.Parmar extended her congratulations

to all of Auckland Malayali Community
for making a difference in our wider NZ
community by dedicating this tournament to
Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand.

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

NEW ZEALAND

11

If I have done it, so can you

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Muni Narayan speaks about her struggle with the dreadful disease, as NZBCFs Pink Caravan travels
through your town with free advice all year through

Paula Ray
Research shows that eight women a day are
diagnosed with this dreadful disease and the
earlier it is detected, the easier it is to overcome
it. To combat the increasing incidence, New
Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation (NZBCF) is
reminding women to not ignore the following
symptoms:
changes in the breast, including dents or
dimples, puckering or redness
a change in breast shape or size
unusual breast pain
changes in the nipple, e.g. a turned-in
nipple
a nipple discharge.
For more information on symptoms, visit
www.anychanges.co.nz . Women should be
aware of these symptoms from age 20 and go
for regular mammograms by the time they are
40.
NZBCF is going to start a special project all
through this month (October 2014). The Pink
Caravan, a home-grown Kiwi project, will
travel through the suburbs of different cities of
the country to offer:
Free advice from specialist breast nurses
Hands-on displays
Lymphoedema support
Free resources
No appointment necessary
Their nurses will answer anyquestionon
breast cancer, show them real life signs to
watch out for, and provide education to GPs and
practice nurses, including men because men can
get breast cancer too. Well also be helping
women whove had breast cancer monitor their
risk of lymphoedema with a new bioimpedance

machine, she NZBCF spokesperson.

The Pink Caravansschedule:
Date and Location
Oct 10-11
Oct 15
Oct 16
Oct 17
Oct 22-23
Oct 24
Nov 5-6
Nov 7
Nov 8
Nov 10

Gisborne
Stratford
Hawera
Levin
Masterton
Carterton
Nelson
Blenheim
Kaikoura
Westport

Nov 12
Nov 19
Nov 20
Nov 21
Nov 27-28
Nov 29
Dec 4
Dec 5
Dec 6

COMMUNITY CAUSES

Greymouth
Ashburton
Timaru
Oamtaru
Queenstown
Wanaka
Gore
Invercargill
Bluff

The incidence of breast cancer among

the Kiwi-Indian community is currently low.
However, statistics suggest that it will go up
as Indian women adopt western lifestyle and
diet. Unfortunately, research has not yet found
out what exactly about western lifestyle leads
to breast cancer. However, NZBCF findings
say that maintaining a healthy BMI after
menopause and moderating alcohol intake are
two practical ways we can lower our risk.
Pankhuri Luthra is the volunteer area
coordinator for Botany for the Pink Ribbon
Street Appeal On Oct 10.
Mindy Singh, a fundraiser for NZBCF,
will organise a Bollywood night onOctober
18, along with her niece. Mindy originally
got involved in the cause after her cousins
daughter died of breast cancer.
Dr Reena Ramsaroop, chair of NZBCFs
medical advisory committee, advises on breast
cancer from a medical perspective.

LIFE, FAITH AND SURVIVAL

Muni Narayan
Executive Assistant,
Ministry of Primary
Industries, Wellington
he world turned on
its head when Muni
Narayan was diagnosed with breast cancer.
She had her two-yearly regular mammogram
test,just before she went on a trip to Fiji. On
return, as she went through her voice mail
she found that the medical centre had asked
her to contact them urgently. She met them
on a Monday for her biopsy and by Friday it
was confirmed that she had breast cancer and
needed to go through the surgical procedure.
The Narayans had lost their son only 10
years ago. This news was like putting petrol
to fire, remembers Muni, who was then in
her mid-50s. Thankfully, I had medical
insurance and could go for private surgery

with a month. What helped her cope during

this period was the supportshe received
from family and friends.
Muni had to continue with her medication
for the next five years. Over the years, I have
realised that to come out of this ordeal one
has to be mentally and emotionally strong and
prepared to fight it.
What makes it easier is the support of
loved ones. I would not have been able to do
it alone.It teaches you to appreciate life better
eat healthy and exercise regularly, she says.
Today, Muni lives an active professional
life. I am positive about my experiences.
If I have done it, so can you.My heart goes
out to anyone who may be going through
something similar. If I am able to provide
some comfort and hope to others by sharing
my experience with them,I am happy to do
so, Muni promises.

12

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

Thought of the Week

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If I have the belief that I can do it, I shall surely acquire the capacity to do
it even if I may not have it at the beginning.

- Mahatma Gandhi

Editorial

From the desk of the

Managing Editor

t is being called the Modi Lehar (wave). But really can this ball of energy and genius be
defined by a word such as wave? At Indian Weekender, we decided to honour the man
who has taken the whole world by storm by naming this phenomena the Modi Tsunami,
and this issue is dedicated to the tsunami that is taking the world in its flow. Just as a tidal
wave sweeps away everything with the sheer force of its magnanimity, it seems that the Modi
magic is sweeping away archaic practices, corruption and red tape that have plagued our
country for years.
Speaking at Madison Square Gardens, Modi stated that he will do away with one rule
everyday that stops progress. Gone are the days when babus arrived late to work and left
early, or when there was a tussle to find a spot in the cafeteria. Swept away are the days when
one single file travelled from office to office before any action was taken on it. Just as he
promised, the Prime Minister has neither rested nor does he let rest, so that the machinery
of the country keeps ticking along. He is thus sweeping away all that has stagnated. Not to
mention the Clean India Mission that is now quite literally sweeping the country.
We realize that in the past few years, everyone had begun to lose faith in the way India
was being governed and the regular debacles and corrupt practices had put us off trying to
keep abreast with the political happenings of the country however, our new Prime Minister
is rewriting political history. Although we would have liked to bring you some more details
on some of the other wonderful initiatives that he has started. But space constraints in this
issue are not allowing us to do so. We will try to bring you more on this celebrated new Prime
Minister that is sure to lead India to a whole new era, in a later issue again. Of most interest to
us overseas Indians is that for the first time a Prime Minister has acknowledged and praised
the contributions of the Indian diaspora and made us feel that we are still, indeed, a part of
that motherland, even though we may reside miles away.
With his focus on good governance, he is moving full steam ahead. In this issue we
introduce to you the Indian Prime Minister the politician, the statesman, the genius, the
motivator, the style icon - the list is long. So we have tried to capture a snapshot of the man
who is still unraveling himself. We have enjoyed putting this special feature together and we
hope you enjoy it too.
One of the other initiatives that PM Modi has kick-started, is that he is communicating
with the people of India regularly motivating them to realize their potential. I cannot even
begin to imagine the future of a nation the size of India, whose population realizes its true
potential. He is doing this through the use of radio; he reaches even in places where there is
no television. He calls this man ki baat. Therefore, this endeavor of writing, from me, is
hugely inspired by him.
On another note, it seems we Indians are lighting up every nook and corner of town with
every big and small organization celebrating Diwali. It is heart warming to see the acceptance
and celebration of our culture by our larger multicultural whanau. Indian Weekender has also
tried to support as many events as possible, just to bring the seasons cheer and warmth to
as many people as possible in the community. We are proud to be a big part of the Auckland
Diwali Festival at Aotea Square on 11th and 12th October, 2014. Hope to see you all there.
These are auspicious days. Days that we celebrate and devote to the one that is the epitome
of the feminine power, the Shakti, the Prakriti, the Mother. In doing so, lets not forget Her
essence that lives in all our women. The wives, the mothers, the sisters, the daughters
lets remember to celebrate and honour them each day, every day. Lets continue to keep
our society safe and secure for them. With these wishes we hope that Vijay Dashmi was a
victorious one for all our readers and that the countdown to Diwali is full of love, light, good
luck, friendship and lots of festivities. We hope to bring you a lot more Diwali fervour in our
next issue.
Giri Gupta

Indian Weekender Volume 6 Issue 12

Publisher: Kiwi Media Group Limited
Managing Editor: Giri Gupta | girigupta@xtra.co.nz
Associate Editor: Paula Ray | editor@indianweekender.co.nz
Associate Editor: Maya Shivam | iwk.maya@gmail.com
Correspondent: Swati Sharma | iwk.reporter@gmail.com
Chief Technical Officer: Rohan Desouza | rohan@indianweekender.co.nz
Design: Mahesh Kumar | iwk.teamnz@gmail.com
Advertising & Business Development Manager:
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Accounts and Admin.: Farah Khan - P: 520 0922 | accounts@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
Indian Weekender is published by Kiwi Media Group, 98 Great South Road, Auckland
Printed at Guardian Print, Ashburton
Copyright 2010. Kiwi Media Group. All Rights Reserved.

Hindustani or Sanskritized
Hindi, Mr Prime Minister?

By Saeed Naqvi

did not understand a word of what our

prime minister said at the United Nations
General Assembly. Well, except for words like
taaqatwar, rozgar and zahir, all other
words were beyond my comprehension. I had
to fall back on translation.
What confounded me even more were the
one liners on top of the TV screen.
Modis befitting reply to Sharif.
This was baffling. I may have lost Modis
syntax but I did not hear him mention Sharif
even once. But the anchors would not give up.
The UNGA hall was empty when Sharif
spoke; it was packed when Modi did.
Another chipped in: I think we should cut
out this Indo-Pak hyphenation.
The anchors were possessed by a seering
desire to be nasty with Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan,
and anything associated with either. As an
answer to their prayer, up popped the heads of
two ex Pakistani generals from distant Karachi
and Islamabad, grinning from ear to ear, in
cheerful anticipation of being punched for the
next hour. Why they show up is a mystery.
Yes, to revert to that difficulty in accessing
the Hindi used by Narendra Modi. Why did I
find it so disconcerting?
It is immaterial what my belief is because
in a world comfortable with denominational
identity, it is tempting to place me in a coop with
other Indian Muslims. This would be a bad fit.
Indeed it would be a cacophony. Muslims would
speak Malayalam in Kerala, Tamil in Tamil
Nadu, Bengali in Bengal and so on. Modis
elevated Hindi would pose the same problems
in the regions - for Hindus and Muslims alike.
They have all learnt to understand Bollywood
Hindustani. That should be the queue.
In Kerala, for instance, it was accepted in
the 1980s, that Mohammad Koya spoke the
wittiest Malayalam in the state assembly. As
chief minister, he once invited me to dinner
which was something of a culture shock to both
of us. He spoke little Hindi or English and I
spoke no Malayalam. He left a strong Malayali
imprimatur on the meal by having me sample
five varieties of bananas by way of dessert.
Hindi cascades from its Sanskritic

heights, then picks up the flavours of Awadhi,

Brajbhasha, Bhojpuri and lilts of a hundred
rural, pastoral dialects, across the IndoGangetic plains.
Dilute the Sanskritic bit and add some
Persian instead and you have the scale of Urdu.
The language can be stately and inaccessible
to the untrained. When writers elevate their
diction, as Maulana Azad did, the verse quoted
is generally in Persian. But the finest writers
and poets have brought it down to the level of
popular literature where it becomes Hindustani.
It was the boast of Arzoo Lucknawi that in
his collection of poetry, Surili Bansuri,
Melodious Flute, there is not a single Persian
or Arabic word.
In the vast stretch of the cow-belt, an area
called Awadh, was where Hindus and Muslims
together refined and enriched Urdu. The first
great prose writer of Urdu was Pandit Ratan
Nath Sarshar. One of the great ghazal poets of
the 20th century was Raghupati Sahay Firaq
Gorakhpuri. Urdu became the central column
of what people in this region called Indias
Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb or culture. (Tragic
consequences of Partition on Urdu in Pakistan
is another sad story.)
The love for Urdu cost the Muslims dear.
While the enlightened Hindu took to Western
education exactly as Macaulay had willed,
Muslims saw the package of Westernization,
language included, with disdain. Later they
settled for Hindustani. But what would
happen to the Urdu script? Trapped in such
considerations, a whole community lost the
race for modernity.
Atal Bihari Vajpayees reversal to Hindi
was moderate cultural assertion. There was lilt
and melody in his makeup. Modis Hindi, learnt
presumably as an RSS pracharak, is dry and,
to a novice like me, forbidding. Not just me,
there are Macaulays children and millions of
votaries of the new consumerism - they will all
be more comfortable with Hindustani.

Saeed Naqvi is a commentator on political and

diplomatic affairs. The views expressed are personal.
He can be reached on saeednaqvi@hotmail.
comexpressed are personal. He can be reached on
saeednaqvi@hotmail.com

OPINION / EDITORIAL

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

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My Incredible Swachh India

Maya Shivam

iving in a clean green country like New

Zealand, we begin to take cleanliness as a
given. However, in yesteryears a trip to India
would bring home the reality of the state of
cleanliness in India years of sarcasm, taunts
and humiliations from visitors had not been
able to shake us quite like our newest Rockstar
PM Modi did on 2nd October 2014. What
better way to celebrate Mahatma Gandhis
Birthday than to flag off the Swachh Bharat
Abhiyaan? The clean up act was long overdue,
but it is heartening to see that the common man
is now joining the force.
Like everything he does, the launch of
the mission was well thought of and brand
ambassadors carefully chosen. On the one
hand, you have Amitabh Bachchan give us the
message of cleanliness on the television. On
the other hand, the forces on the ground include
Aamir Khan, Sachin Tendulkar, Salman Khan,
Priyanka Chopra, Baba Ramdev and others each a legend in their own right. And true to
his leadership style, Modi leads from the front.
As he took the pledge to clean India along with
thousands who had gathered, it was inspiring
to even hear the resounding sound of a unified
pledge. I take this pledge that I will remain
committed towards cleanliness and devote time
for this. I will devote 100 hours per year that
is two hours per week to voluntary work for
cleanliness. I will neither litter nor let others
litter. I will initiate the quest for cleanliness
with myself, my family, my locality, my village
and my work place. People also pledged to
introduce 100 other people to this pledge. Even

more heartening was to see the Prime Minister

wielding the broom soon after.
While launching the Swachh Bharat Mission
on Thursday, Modi exhorted every Indian
citizen to dedicate 100 hours a year or about
two hours a week for voluntary cleanliness
work. The government itself will spend over
Rs 62,000 crore on the programme, which
seeks to eliminate open defecation, building
and maintaining quality toilets, eradication
of manual scavenging, municipal solid waste

management and, most importantly, bringing

about an attitudinal shift in people.
Large corporates such as Dabur, Unitech,
L&T, Bharti Enterprises, Tata Consultancy
Services and PSUs such as Indian Oil, GAIL
and NTPC have already started drawing up
plans to clean up their surroundings, build
toilets and support the mission.
In his ability to e-govern our generation X,
Modi introduced a new website called Clean
India and invited people to join him online and
on social media. He invited people to upload
the before and after photographs of garbage that
they had spotted and undertaken to clean. He
invited the youth to join him on Facebook or
Twitter.
There are constant reports, everyday that
come forth from various community and social
activists that are joining the force to clean this
incredible country. The mission has transcended
the barriers of class, creed and political party,
with numerous parties pledging to undertake
the responsibility of cleanliness.
I have always been a very proud Indian, but
this new step towards a cleaner India makes me
even more proud of not just the man who has
initiated this mission but of every single citizen
that is joining the Clean India force every day.
It, however, must be said that this will need a
whole change of attitude, mind set and way of
life. Fines and sanctions may need to be put in
place to ensure the upkeep of this cleanliness
in time. Given the numbers joining the Clean
India brigade every day, it is possible to pull
this off, while we the overseas citizens cheer
on from all over the world. Cmon Incredible
India Swachh it up!!!

Helping Hands
CII: to mobilise construction of 10,000
toilets through CSR by 2015-16
Vedanta: To build 10,000 toilets in
addition to 30,000 it is already building in
a partnership with Rajasthan government
TCS: Pledged Rs 100 crore ($100 million)
for building sanitation facilities for girls in
10,000 schools
Bharti Foundation: Pledged Rs 100
crore ($100 million) to build toilets in
Ludhiana
GAIL, L&T: To construct 1,021 toilets and
5,000 toilets respectively
Dabur: To provide germ-free toilets
across the country as a part of Swachh
Toilet, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
Unitech: To involve residents & other
stakeholders in a drive to clean areas
around them

Clean India movement should also clean the air

By Rajendra Shende

he most crucial inclusion in the India-US

Joint statement issued on Sep 30 is the
strategic partnership on energy and climate
change. The actions agreed will have far reaching
impacts on Indias poor, neo-middle class and
youth. They will also enhance the image of an
India as a steward in international negotiations
on environment.
At WTO, India resisted the American pressure
to amend Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA),
only to protect the hundreds of millions of poor
and hungry Indians. Now, India, through actions
planned in partnership with the US, has unique
opportunity to act on climate change and secure
future of poor workers and farmers.
Till now India, over the last 17 years has been
resisting at international meetings to avail an
important the opportunity to make its refrigeration
and air conditioning industry move away from a
refrigerant - hydrochloroflurocarbons (HFCs).
Nearly 100 countries including the US and Japan
and those in Europe have given their consent but
India continues to block this agreement. Many
countries are even advancing to implement it.
In Europe, for example, a new law will phase
down HFCs by 80 percent by 2030. In the
US, President Barack Obama is also using his
regulatory authority to shift away from HFCs and is promising to do even more.
Indias blockade, unlike in case of WTO,
is not for the interest of the poor. Far from it.
Indian negotiators question the availability of
alternatives to HFCs. They debate if the Montreal
Protocol is he right forum for the action against
HFCs. In reality, this stand completely ignores
the opportunity for India to avail larger national

benefits for the poor and neo-middle class.

The refrigeration and air-conditioning
industry has made enormous contribution
to protect the stratospheric ozone layer by
effectively implementing the Montreal Protocol.
By 2010, as per the Montreal Protocol, it had
eliminated production and consumption of
CFCs. Now it, like other developing countries,
is phasing out the last remaining ozone depleting
chemical - hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs).
However, in most cases HFCs were introduced as
alternative to CFCs and now HCFCs. The annual
global growth of HFCs, which are mainly used
in room and car air-conditioners, is eight percent
but in emerging economies like China and India
it is more than 10 to 15 percent. It is likely to
be 20 percent soon due to increasing demand on
air-conditioners from the rising neo-middle class.
As the plans declared by Prime Minister
Narendra Modi for 100 smart cities goes
on stream, as the cold storage requirements
increase to feed in those cities, as the number
of refrigerated facilities increase to prevent the
waste of perishables to give better income to
farmers for their produce, the demand for HFCs
would further rise. If left unchecked, by 2050,
annual HFC emissions could be equivalent to
12 percent of annual CO2 emissions under a
business-as-usual scenario and up to 75 percent
of annual CO2 emissions under the IPCCs
strongest mitigation scenario.
Scientific studies say global fast action on
HFCs phase down will avoid up to 200 billion
tonnes of CO2 emissions by 2050 and up to 0.5
degrees Celsius of warming by 2100. Avoiding
this warming is essential for staying within the
long-term international goal of stabilizing global
temperature rise at or below 2 degrees Celsius

over pre-industrial temperatures by the end of

the century.
Are the alternatives to HFCs available? Godrej
in India has already commercialized room airconditioners without HFCs. It uses hydrocarbons
(HC), which are easily available in India and
much cheaper. The energy efficiency of such air
conditioner is also at least 10 percent higher. I
myself use HC-based room ACs at my home. I
have also test-driven a Tata Motors car that uses
a non-HFC alternative. The alternative for car
air conditioners is presently costly. However, as
we have witnessed under the Montreal Protocol,
when the consumption grows the price comes
down.
When India phased out CFCs, the energy
efficiency of the appliances using CFCalternatives went up to the extent of nearly 30
percent to 60 percen. If we enhance the energy
efficiency of non-HFC (or very-low global
warming HFCs) room ACs, and even make super
efficient AC in India-as per Modis Make in
India campaign and as intended in the US-India
partnership statement, the benefits to consumer
at micro-level and to India at macro-level would
be enormous.
Indias air conditioning sector uses up to
half of the available electricity during the subcontinents hottest months. The peak demands
during the hottest days burden Indias timeworn
and tattered power grid. The power outage in
India in July 2012 was the largest in the history.
Nearly half of Indias population suffered during
this black out-mainly blamed for the use of air
conditioning systems.
A recent study by the Lawrence Berkeley
National Laboratory of USA calculates that
super-efficient air conditioning in India could

avoid the need to build up to 120 medium-sized

power plants by 2030. This would save $60
billion just in construction costs. It also would
save Indian consumers and businesses money
and take pressure off the electric grid, reduce
emission of carbon dioxide and reduce air
pollution.
Implementing HFC phase-down under the
Montreal Protocol, India during negotiations
can insist on applying the same rules as accepted
under the Montreal Protocol - getting a grace
period by requesting industrialized countries to
carry out HFC phase-down first, ensuring that
alternatives are available and affordable, getting
full incremental cost of transition away from
HFCs and getting the energy efficient and even
super-efficient technology. This opportunity
is being withered away by India for last few
years by splitting hair on legal issues without
understanding the larger interest of Indias poor
and aspirations of the emerging neo-middle class.
Air pollution can be reduced by enhancing
the energy efficiency and by avoiding new power
plants based on fossil fuel. Millions of poor lives
will be saved. Indias import of fossil fuel would
also stand reduced.
The Clean India campaign, pronounced by
Modi, started Oct 2 on the occasion of Mahatma
Gandhis birth anniversary. It should not be
restricted only to sweeping the roads, brushing
the walls and dusting the files. It should move
beyond - and also clean the skies from air
pollution by making ACs super-efficient and
HFC free.
Rajendra Shende is an IIT alumni, chairman
of TERRE Policy Centre and former director of
the UNEP. The views expressed are personal. He
can be contacted at shende.rajendra@gmail.com

14

SPORTS

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

India finish Incheon Asiad in 8th place

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India ended the 17th Asian Games, where competitions concluded in Incheon, South Korea last week, with 57 medals to finish in eighth place.
China topped the standings with 343 medals, including a whopping 151 golds. India won 11 gold, 10 silver and 36 bronze but failed to emulate
their 2010 exploits at Guangzhou, where they won 65 medals - 14 gold, 17 silver and 34 bronze. Hosts South Korea were second with 79 golds
while Japan finished third with 47 yellow metals

Hockey team win gold

after 16 years

he national anthem was played twice on

October 2nd as the mens hockey won the
gold medal after 16 long years and the womens
4x400m relay team emerged champions for the
fourth consecutive time taking India back into
top-10 at the ninth spot again in the 17th Asian
Games in South Korea.
In the much awaited hockey final,
goalkeeper P.R. Sreejesh was the show stopper
making two brilliant saves in the shoot-outs to
give India a 4-2 win via penalties against archrivals and defending champions Pakistan, that
ended 16-year wait for the gold medal, at the
Seonhak Hockey Stadium in Incheon. The win
also thus gaining a direct entry into the 2016
Rio Olympics.
It was after 32 years that both India and
Pakistan were facing off in the Asian Games
final. The last time when the neighbours faced
in the 1982 Asian Games final, India were
humiliated 1-7 in Delhi. Pakistan are the most
accomplished team in the Asian Games, having
won eight gold medals since 1958.
Minutes after the hockey tirumph, the
womens 4x400m relay team comprising
Priyanka Panwar, Tintu Luka, Mandeep Kaur
and M. Poovamma completed the race in three
minutes and 28.68 seconds to overhaul the
record which was also set by India in the 2010
Guangzhou Games.

Mary Kom punches

her way to Asiad gold

ndias M.C. Mary Kom punched her way

to Indias first womens boxing gold in
Asian Games, defeating Kazakhstans Zhaina
Shekerbekova in the flyweight (48-51kg) final
last week.
Mary, a five-time World Champion, defeated
Shekerbekova 2-0, with one judge scoring the
bout 38-38 in the 17th Asian Games at the
Seonhak Gymnasium.
The 31-year-old Indian took some time to be
at her attacking best and got just 27 points in
the first round.
Backed by a boisterous Indian crowd, Mary
Kom, a mother of three and police officer in
Indias northeastern state of Manipur, banked
upon her experience and mixed aggression with
caution to counter the speed of her 25-year-old
opponent.
Mary Kom, a bronze medallist from the
2012 London Olympics, won the second round
29-28.
With this win, Mary Kom, who took some
time off the ring after the London Olympics
due to the birth of her third child, completed her
comeback and also gave a fitting reply to Indian
officials who had dropped her name from the
Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in August.
(Left) India play against Pakistan; (right) Mary
Kom wins yet another gold medal

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

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AUCKLAND DIWALI SPECIAL

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Diwali delights: Fun, food and fireworks!

ore than 800 performers and 50 food and craft stalls will transform Aotea
Square and part of Queen Street into an Indian Mela (bazaar) on Saturday,
11th and Sunday, 12th October for the 13thannual Auckland Diwali Festival.
Diwali the festival of lights is an important and ancient Indian festival
signifying the triumph of light over darkness and the renewal of life.
Visitors to this weekends festival will experience a slice of traditional and
contemporary Indian culture, with an extraordinary array of music, dance, sport,
fashion, food and fireworks, plus a wedding expo and the show stopping Radio
Tarana Bollywood dance competition.
Auckland Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse says the event is an opportunity for
Auckland to acknowledge the contribution that the Indian community makes to
the region.
More than 100,000 people of Indian heritage call Auckland home and

contribute significantly to our great city socially, culturally and economically, and
play an important part in our multi-cultural society. I want to wish everyone a
Happy Diwali and a year ahead filled with prosperity, health and happiness, says
Deputy Mayor Hulse.
The festival runs from midday to 9 pm this weekend (Saturday, 11th and Sunday,
12th October) and is organised by Auckland Tourism Events and Economic
Development (ATEED) in partnership with Asia New Zealand Foundation.
Renowned international performers the Sattriya Dance Theatre Group will
light up the stage at Aotea Square as part of the official opening celebrationson
Saturdayafternoon. The ceremony will feature the Prime Minister and leader of
the National Party, Rt Hon John Key, Acting Leader of the Opposition Labour
party, Hon David Parker, ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 Ambassador, Sir Richard
Hadlee, and Deputy Mayor of Auckland, Penny Hulse.

Auckland is shaped by its people and its heritage including drawing on traditions that our people have brought
with them from around the world. Diwali Festival gives our large Indian community an opportunity to share one of
its most loved cultural traditions with all Aucklanders in a great occasion that the whole family will enjoy.
Auckland Diwali Festival showcases a unique blend of traditional Indian and contemporary New Zealand Indian
culture. Its meat-free, smoke-free, alcohol-free and free to attend and one of the most joyful occasions on our
cultural calendar. I love it and would like to welcome everyone who has supported and been a part of the festival
for many years - and those experiencing it for the first time. Namaste and Happy Diwali.
Len Brown
Mayor of Auckland

Auckland Diwali Festival is one of two events (along with Auckland Lantern Festival) that ATEED delivers
in partnership with the Asia New Zealand Foundation. The festival is an important part of our regions event
calendar, and a great opportunity for Aucklanders and visitors of all ethnic backgrounds to experience a muchloved Indian cultural tradition. Cultural festivals like Diwali contribute to Auckland becoming the worlds most
liveable city by celebrating our cultural diversity and bringing a real buzz to the city centre.
Auckland Diwali Festival also helps us raise awareness of Indian culture and the Indian community living in
Auckland as well as celebrate and showcase Auckland as a diverse, multicultural and inclusive city. ATEEDs
vision for the festival is that it becomes the premier Indian festival in Australasia that Aucklanders are proud of.
In 2013,the festival attracted an audienceof more than 28,000 people, up from approx. 23,000 people in 2013.
For this year, we have some exciting new ingredients to add into the Diwali mix, including the ICC Cricket World
Cup 2015 zone on Queen Street where you can learn more about the tournament which Auckland is a host city for
this summer, and be part of an iconic Indian cricket photo moment.
On behalf of ATEEDs Major Events team, have a wonderful weekend.
Brett ORiley
Chief Executive, ATEED

Namaste and Happy Diwali. The Asia New Zealand Foundation is proud to have been involved in the Auckland
Diwali Festival since the first major public Diwali Mela event in 2002.
Were delighted to be hosting fantastic international guests at this years festival, including the Sattriya Dance
Theatre group, led by renowned classical dancer, choreographer and musicologist Menaka PP Bora.
This year marks the foundations 20th anniversary. In the past two decades, we have been committed to helping
New Zealanders experience Asia and gain a better understanding of its diverse peoples and cultures. This festival
is a great opportunity for you to do that right here in Auckland, thanks to the contributions of the regions more
than 106,000 residents of Indian heritage.
Philip Burdon
Chairman, Asia New Zealand Foundation

16

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

AUCKLAND DIWALI SPECIAL

DANZASIA

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10 - 11.30am Saturday
Limelight, Aotea Centre

Cricketing great pads-up

ne of New Zealands finest test cricketers

will come out of retirement to be part of
this years Auckland Diwali Festival, taking
place on 11 and 12 October at Aotea Square
and Queen Street.
Sir Richard Hadlee will be available to
meet fans on Saturday at the ICC Cricket
World Cup 2015 activity zone on Queen
Street.
Chief Executive of Auckland Tourism,
Events
and
Economic
Development
(ATEED), Brett ORiley, says Auckland is
one of seven New Zealand cities that will cohost the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 with
Australia.
As we know Indian cricket fans are
incredibly passionate, and its an honour to be
hosting such a legend of the game at one of
Aucklands most celebrated festivals, says
Mr ORiley.
This is a great opportunity to get a
taste of World Cup action before it arrives
in Auckland in 2015, which will be one of
Aucklands busiest-ever events seasons.

Festival-goers will also have the chance to

be part of an iconic Indian cricketing moment
at the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 photo
booth.

Using green screen technology, fans will be

transported into the post-match celebrations
of the Indian cricket team following their
victory in the 2011 World Cup final.

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re you an Asian choreographer keen to

find your voice through dance? Then
come along to our launch of DANZASIA,
a pilot choreographic lab to nurture Asian
choreographers in conjunction with the Diwali
Festival. Our guest speakers will share their
personal journeys of discovery while you enjoy
chai and samosas, courtesy of DANZ.

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10 October 2014

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AUCKLAND DIWALI SPECIAL

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Photos from Air NZ - ATEED launch event

Pics from

(From left to right) Brett ORiley, Chief Executive

ATEED; Antony Price, General Manager UK
& Europe, Air NZ; Ravi Thapar, Indian High
Commissioner to New Zealand; Jennifer King,
Director Culture at Asia New Zealand Foundation;
Alf Filippaina, Auckland Councillor.
Photographs by Brendon OHagan

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AUCKLAND DIWALI SPECIAL

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10 October 2014

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The Sattriya Dance Theatre group, led by award-winning dancer Dr Menaka Bora, will be visiting three Auckland
schools onTuesday, 14thOctober.These include Meadowbank School, Owairaka District School and Favona
School. These are part of the Asia New Zealand Foundations Schools Network. Jennifer King, director of culture,
Asia NZ Foundation, says, The schools programme is a crucial part of the Diwali Festival, giving New Zealand
children the chance to meet international artists face to face and learn about an aspect of Indian culture outside their
everyday experience. Teachers also tell us it gives students of Indian heritage an opportunity to share their culture
with their classmates.

KANWALJIT SINGH BAKSHI

THANK YOU FOR

YOUR SUPPORT
Contact Kanwal:

131 Kolmar Rd, Papatoetoe, Manukau East

09 278 9302
kanwal.bakshi@national.org.nz

Authorised by Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, 1/131 Kolmar Road, Papatoetoe, Auckland.

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www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

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AUCKLAND DIWALI SPECIAL

Highlights of the Great Indian Wedding Expo

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Bridal makeup will be applied on models

Mehndi will also be applied on models. Visitors can wear it too for a minimal cost.
Wedding garlands will be made at the workshop.
Take photographs of couples in the backdrop of a make-believe wedding set.
Workshop on how to drape a sari, followed by a sari draping competition for the visitors.
At the end, a model couple will go through a mock wedding ceremony for the pleasure of the visitors.

Photographs used for representation purposes only

SONI MUDALIAR
NZs first Indian wedding planner
www.indianweddings.co.nz
Display open 12 9pm
Live presentations 4pm and 7pm
Level 5 Aotea Centre

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10 October 2014

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SPONSORED BY
Barfoot & Thompson
Win the fabulous Barfoot & Thompson playhouse for your backyard or a family
friend, just by completing the entry form at site No.3. Remember to watch the
spectacular Barfoot & Thompson Fireworks display, 9pm Sunday.
Air New Zealand
Air New Zealand delivers uniquely Kiwi journeys to more than 13 million
passengers who fly to, from and within New Zealand each year. The airline
operates more than 4,000 flights each week, connecting customers to destinations within New Zealand and around the world. To find out more, visit site No.
2 and while youre there, dont forget to check out their very cool interactive
photo booth.

India Tourism Sydney

India Tourism Sydney

Thanks to India Tourism Sydney who have been participating in Auckland Diwali
Festival for the last 13 years. Theyve done a great job creating awareness
about India and showcasing India as a wonderful tourism destination for New
Zealanders. Check them out on site No.1. You cant miss them theyre located to
the right of the main stage.
Mithai
For authentic Indian sweets made from pure milk and ghee visit Mithai at 685
Sandringham Rd, or if youre hungry now, check out the Mithai food stall for some
tasty treats like pani puri, bhel puri, pav bhaji and more at site No. 12.
Radio Tarana
Visit the Radio Tarana team at site No. 10 and enter the draw to win a meet-andgreet dinner with Mega Bollywood Star Dharmendra. While youre there, dont
forget to have your photo taken at the Radio Tarana photo booth.
iHeartRadio
Win an iPad, just sign up for iHeartRadio its free to register. iHeartRadio has
over 1500 stations you can listen to, including your favourite Indian and Bollywood
stations. Just look out for iHeartRadio on site No. 4.
Indian Weekender
Check out the Indian Weekender stall at site No. 11, upstairs inside the Aotea
Centre - Grab your free copy of the newspaper. Also attend the Speakers Series
and listen to leading Kiwi-Indians talk about their Indian experience. Time: 5 - 7pm,
Saturday and Sunday.

Fairfax Media
Take time out to catch up on the latest news or just relax at the Fairfax time out
zone, while the rest of the family enjoy the food, craft and displays at the festival.
Youll find Fairfax time out zone at site No.5. Theres complimentary newspapers
and magazines to choose from and enjoy.
AIA New Zealand
Visit the AIA New Zealand stand for your chance to spin and win with the AIA prize
wheel. Youll find them at site No.7. As a special treat see the balloon artist. Theyll
create your favourite balloon animal.
The Better Drinks Company
If you find yourself in need of a drink, come by the Charlies Tent at site No. 6 and
enjoy a Charlies Honest Fizz. Made using real fruit, real bubbles real simple!
Western Union
Come visit the Western Union stand at site No. 9, or our two stores at 330 Queen
St or 44 Wellesley St. Guess how many Western Union Rupees are in the box and
go into the draw towin the cash equivalent! Three boxes and three chances towin!
Ntec Tertirary Group
Ntec Tertiary Group is one of New Zealands largest private tertiary providers. Find
out about the range of courses they have to offer on-site this weekend. Just look out
for the team at site No. 8. While youre there, have a go at the Ntec quiz. Theres
the chance to win spot prizes.
Love NZ
Love NZ is the Governments brand promoting recycling. The Public Place
Recycling Scheme is a voluntary product stewardship scheme funded by industry
which supports recycling at high profile events promoting the Love NZ brand. The
Public Place Recycling Scheme is delighted to encourage recycling at the Auckland
Diwali Festival and to promote the Love NZ brand.

The Auckland Diwali Festival has been made more spectacular with our family of sponsors
and supporters:- Air New Zealand, Barfoot & Thompson, iHeartRadio, Radio Tarana, Fairfax
Media, Indian Weekender, Mithai, India Tourism Sydney, Love NZ, Ntec Tertiary Group, AIA
New Zealand, Western Union and The Better Drinks Company Thanks again to the festival
sponsors and supporters.

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

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A new Modi doctrine for Indian foreign policy?

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Arul Louis

arking a decisive break from the slowly

eroding traditional underpinnings of
Indian foreign policy, Prime Minister Narendra
Modi in his United Nations speech set out
a new framework marked by two elements:
replacing the polemics of a bipolar era with a
policy centred on dialogue and engagement and
the vestiges of anti-colonialism with a focus on
democratisation.
In the Nehruvian era Indias foreign policy
was forged in the crucible of anti-colonial
struggles in a world emerging from the trauma
of a global war into a new confrontation between
two ideologies. Jawaharlal Nehru sought to
build a third way through the nonaligned
movement and the solidarity of the developing
countries and people fighting colonialism.
Although the world has changed since the
heyday of the nonaligned movement and the
collapse of a bipolar world with the breakup
of the Soviet Union 23 years ago, India drifted
along as it tried to find a place for itself in the
new universe with an evolving foreign policy.
Modis speech marks an inflection point, an
end to that order and it lays out the parameters
for a new one more suited to the emerging
world order.
If the polemics of Nehru in the postIndependence era carried an underlying
message of confrontation with the West, Modi
finally laid it to rest: On the one side we say
that our destinies are interlinked, on the other
hand we still think in terms of zero sum game.
If the other benefits, I stand to lose. ... Let bring
ourselves in tune with the call of the times.

Saying, We need a genuine dialogue and

engagement between countries, he went on to
underline the difference between a philosophy
based on the idea of dichotomy that is drawn
from the religious traditions of the West and
Middle East and his own: I say this from the
conviction of the philosophical tradition that
I come from, citing the old Sanskrit saying
Vasudeva kutumbakam, or the world is one
family, to illustrate his point.
Another point of departure that illuminates
Modis new framework is a message of
positivism and hope in the 21st century in
contrast to the pessimism that prevailed in the
1950s. The world may not be perfect, but he
pointed out: We have achieved much in past

six decades in our mission of ending wars,

preventing conflict, maintaining peace, feeding
the hungry, striving to save our planet and
creating opportunities for our children.
He added, There is a new stirring for
stability, peace and progress in Africa. There
is an unprecedented spread of prosperity in
Asia and beyond ... Latin America, a continent
of enormous potential, is coming together
in shared pursuit of stability and prosperity,
which could make it an important anchor of the
world.
However, the transition - time of great flux
and change - is not easy and even a degree of
polarization is inevitable. Modi couldnt ignore
the other side of what is happening: The world

is witnessing tensions and turmoil on a scale

rarely seen in recent history. There are no major
wars, but tensions and conflicts abound; and,
there is absence of real peace and uncertainty
about the future. Terrorism is taking new shape
and new name. No country, big or small, in the
north or the south, east or west, is free from its
threat.
The key test for Modis framework is how
India can navigate through those of these
problems that impinge on it. It means harnessing
realism to the philosophy. Nehruvian starryeyed idealism took a toll on India. But Modi
has a steely firmness at his core - he was quick
to react to Pakistans perceived hostility and lay
down the rules of engagement.
What he can achieve through the first of
the element he has articulated - dialogue and
engagement - is the ability to be flexible enough
to deal with various nations and groups of
nations without having to assume rigid postures
or fall into a camp. A ready example of this is
the way he is manoeuvring relationships with
Japan, China and the United States. Another is
how he is tackling Pakistan in a measured way,
setting the boundaries, but not shutting it off
entirely.
The second element he has articulated is
one of idealism - but it does not bind him to
a grouping or to polemics that could be selfdefeating. All this may be the start of the
evolution of a Modi Doctrine.
Arul Louis is a New York-based senior
journalist and Senior Fellow, Society for Policy
Studies. The views expressed are personal. He
and can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

22

Our American Pie

Direct
Dil Se

What did Modi bring back from the US

TRADE AND ECONOMY

US to help develop smart cities Ajmer,
Vishakhapatnam & Allahabad
Partner on Digital India initiative
to
enhance
digital
infrastructure
e-governance, e-services, ICT working
group to flesh out details
Set up infrastructure collaboration
platform to identify Indias critical infra
need; provide single GoI (Government
of India) point-of-contact; increase US
industry presence US industry presence
in infra projects
Extend an Indo-Pacific Economic corridor
to Myanmar and Southeast Asia; identify
critical ports, rail, aviation, intermodal
infra projects
Push an investment initiative to help
institutional investors and corporate
houses to invest in India
STRATEGIC CONSULTATIONS
UN & Multilateral issues dialogue
Issues will include UNs role in peace &
security, UNs post-2015 development
agenda & UN reforms
An Indian Ocean region dialogue
An increase in infra investment equivalent
to 1% of global GDP would likely
translate into an additional 3.4 million
jobs in India
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Joint mission to better understand climate
change impacts
NASA & ISRO signed deal to conduct
joint NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture
Radar (NISAR) mission

India to participate in the Thirty Meter

Telescope (TMT) Project, a global
consortium of institutions from the US,
Canada, Japan, India and China; TMT
is under construction at Mauna Kea,
Hawaii. Completed, itll be among the
worlds largest optical-infrared telescopes
A Mars Working Group set up to explore
potential cooperation on missions that
recently arrived at Mars
BUILDING TIES
Once Indian National Defence University
set up, itll interact with USs National
Defence University for knowledge
partnership
Visa-on-arrival to US nationals in 2015
India hopes to implement procedures for
Indians to benefit from US Global Entry
Program in 2015
US to give mine-resistant ambushprotected vehicles to India
Health ministers will sign MoU on
environment and occupational health &
injury prevention and control
CLIMATE YARN
New programme of work on air quality,
partner to build climate resilience
Create clean-energy finance forum
US Ex-Im Bank and the Indian Renewable
Energy Development Agency to enter into
MOU thatd provide up to $1 bn in US
Ex-Im Bank financing to support export
of Made-in-America renewable energy
good & services for clean-energy projects
in India.

(Straight from the heart)

true leader is one who makes time for his

people. Amidst his many commitments,
Modi does not forget to talk directly to the
people to the Country that has elected him
Prime Minister. In an unprecedented move, he
used the state-run All India Radio to share his
thoughts and to urge Indians to realise their
potential.
Sharing his views in a programme titled
Man ki Baat, Modi recounted anecdotes in a
chatty style and urged people to connect with
him directly on social media on how to improve
the quality of life.
He also promised to make Man ki Baat a
regular address, twice a month on Sundays.
Speaking a day after he launched the Clean
India campaign, Modi touched upon a range
of issues.This Vijaya Dashmi, let us win over
dirtiness around us, Modi said. He greeted
people on the occasion of Vijaya Dashmi.
The prime minister urged people to go
for khadi products and take advantage of this
holiday season when discounts are offered
at Khadi Gramodyog Bhavans all over the
country.
Modi recounted the story of a tigress and her
two cubs Indian mystic Swami Vivekananda
would often relate to make people realize their
inner strength.
One of the cubs got lost and was raised by
a sheep and began to think and act like a sheep
until one day it accidentally met its mother
again.
The cub roared when it was made to realize
it was a tiger, not a sheep.

Red There is great strength

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of this

country of 1.25 billion. There is a need for us

to recognize the strength within us, like Swami
Vivekananda said.
If we recognise the strength within
ourselves, our self esteem will rise and we will
be victorious. Our country will also become
victorious and successful, Modi said. I think
our 1.25 billion people have immense potential
in them and are very capable. And we need to
show confidence.
The tech-savvy Modi asked people to get in
touch with him directly through social media by
offering suggestions besides relating inspiring
incidents with proof. He promised to recount
these on radio.
This is my first beginning. I shall keep
sharing my thoughts with you... The thoughts
that came to me, I shared, and I will come again
and share more thoughts, he said in his around
15-minute address.

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10 October 2014

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ENTERTAINMENT

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www.iwk.co.nz
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Narendra Style bhai Modi

Maya Shivam

ashion now has a new name. He is being

hailed and admired as one of Indias best
dressed Prime Ministers. From neatly-cut and
well-fitted bandhgala suits in different shades,
to his trademark half-sleeved kurta and brightly
coloured Nehru jackets, Prime Minister
Narendra Modi not only dressed appropriate
to the occasion, but has also looked classy
during his ongoing US trip, where he was seen
to change his attire with almost every event or
meeting.
If bandhgala jackets are important aspect
of the Prime Ministers dressing, they are
favourite on the ramps too for men.
One case in point: the trademarking of the
Modi Kurta his signature outfit that, much
like his politics, offers a certain contemporary
practicality to the fabric of Indian tradition.
It will soon be branded and sold en masse in

India, the UK, the US and Southeast Asia.

The Prime Ministers kurta is a shorter,
crisper version of the traditional tunic; pair
it with Bulgari shades and a Movado watch
(hes got penchants for them both) and you
have a getup that nods to old national values
while boasting the sophisticated commodities
of Western life, which have been eagerly
embraced by the upwardly mobile country in
the 20-some years since its economy opened up
to the world.
His dressing sense certainly makes him
stand out, says designer Krishna Mehta.
Surely the well-fitted bandh collar jackets
in sophisticated colours, with a bandh collar
shirt and cuff links and pocket square look very
distinguished. Modis fashion sense has even
made the likes of Tommy Hilfiger state: Modi
is quite fashionable, while Obama dresses
safe.
It is a known fact Modi, who hails from
Gujarat, has a proclivity for bright colours and
it was evident when he attended a power dinner
with Reliance Industries chief Mukesh Ambani
and PepsiCo CEO Indra Nooyi in a peach
bandhgala cut sleeve jacket worn over a cream
silk kurta.
However, when he addressed the UN
General Assembly, he kept his wardrobe
absolutely formal by dressing in a dark coloured
bandhgala suit.
Modi is known to have very specific fashion
likes and dislikes, is seen changing clothes
despite a busy schedule
We asked our favourite NIFT fashion
designer Nikhil Kapoor about what he thought
of Modis style and heres what he had to say:
Modi certainly knows fashion and colour to
its best. His haircut, the trimmed beard, his

Presents

An evening on enchanting

and many more styles from the heartland of Benaras

Accompanied by:

Manjit Singh
(Tabla - Rhythm
School of Music)

Samir
Bhalodkar
(Samvadini)

1st November 2014 6.30pm Mt Albert War Memorial Hall,

773 New North Road, Mt Albert, Auckland

Tickets $20
Available @
GOLD SPONSORS

or call 0272435353, 09 5348000

SUPPORTED BY

EXCLUSIVE MEDIA PARTNERS

watches and detailed look down to the shoes,

add the sharp and sophisticated edge to his
natural style. His choice of colours and the
sheer fusion of the authentic Indian with the
suave and stylish make him a fashion icon.
For years Indian politicians may have been
mocked for their crumpled, clumsy dressing.
But like everything else, Modi is changing the
face of Indian politics and that is why we call
him Style Bhai.

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10 October 2014

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ENTERTAINMENT

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In the last 150 days, the nation has moved from an era of policy paralysis to an era of policy priorities.
In 150 days in
Office,
Red
Black
the Narendra Modi Government has successfully prepared a roadmap for Indias development. Ever since Modi took the reins,
he has been continuing his focus on Minimum Government and Maximum Governance in every step.

NEPAL VISIT
August 2014
BRICS SUMMIT
July 2014
BHUTAN VISIT
June 2014

MAKE IN INDIA
September 2014
JAPAN VISIT
August 2014

CLEAN INDIA MISSION

October 2014

MEET WITH CHINESE PRESIDENT

September 2014

US VISIT
September 2014

JAN DHAN YOJNA

August 2014
MARS MISSION SUCCESS
September 2014

Unraveling the genius

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FEATURES

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10 October 2014

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From the desk of I am Woman

Work for peace; abolish nuclear weapons

This is the concluding part of I am Womans interview with Ms Laurie Ross, Auckland Citys Peace diplomat

IAW: What is the history behind New

Zealand being nuclear free?
Laurie: In 1958 the Campaign for Nuclear
Disarmament (CND) was established in
Britain with branches throughout the world
including New Zealand. British, American
and French nuclear testing was done in
the South Pacific (1950s-1990s) which
caused great concern to New Zealanders
who were motivated to stop this radioactive
contamination activity of the atmosphere,
water and land that endangered the health of
people in the Pacific.
In 1973, the NZ government under

Norman Kirk sent a brigade to protest against

French nuclear tests at MururoaAtoll as did
the Greenpeace ships creating significant
international attention.
Between 1975-84, the NZ Peace Squadron
was formed of private sailing vessels to protest
against the visits of American nuclear warships
and submarines to NZ harbours.
In 1976, the Campaign Half Million
petition stopped the NZ government from
investment in nuclear energy schemes.
Between 1981-2007, the New Zealand
Nuclear Free Zone Committee was established
by Larry Ross of Christchurch. (Later known
as NZ Nuclear Free Peacemaking Association).
He presented a carefully structured strategic
plan for achieving this goal which was adopted
at the annual New Zealand Peace Conference.
It was based on the1978 United Nations
Resolutions on the importance and value of
individual states or groups of nations declaring
themselves Nuclear Free Zones and thus
contributing to nuclear disarmament in the
international community.
In 1982 the Peace Movement grew at a
phenomenal rate through neighbourhood peace
groups forming in every town throughout the
land who proceeded with public education,
petitions and promotion for a Nuclear Free NZ
and lobbying their local councils.

By 1984, there were 94 councils who had

declared Nuclear Free Zones (65% population)
when the snap election was called on the
nuclear ships issue. A Labour government led
by David Lange, was voted in and won on this
platform. However, this meant withdrawal
from the nuclear defense alliance of ANZUS
which was difficult for the government, but
had always been advocated by the Peace
movement.
In 1985- the Greenpeace ship Rainbow
Warrior was bombed by French secret agents
in Auckland harbour - killing one man on
board. This focussed media attention on NZ
and aroused great international support for
NZs Nuclear Free Zone.
By 1987, there were 105 locally declared
Nuclear Free Councils (72% popuplation)
and the Lange government was voted back in
to pass the New Zealand Nuclear Free Zone
Disarmament and Arms Control Act enshrined
as legislation.
In 1990, the National Party embraced the
NZ Nuclear Free Zone policy and formed the
government.
In 1996 NZ Peace activists played a leading
role in the World Court Project which resulted
in the International Court of Justice ruling that
nuclear weapons are (generally) illegal and
should be eliminated.

IAW: How can I as a common person

contribute to Peace?
Laurie: Everyone needs to ask themselves
that question and proceed to develop conscious
self-awareness or mindfulness of what they
can do for peace. Peace starts at home, so
it is important to foster stronger human
relationships.
It is our duty as responsible citizens to
become politically aware and speak out about
injustice, violence or corruption and work
to stop it. We need to identify and help the
real leaders doing courageous forms of peace
work. We must cultivate a Culture of Peace
in the home, community, nationally and
internationally.
In addition, I encourage everyone to
contribute to peace by being an advocate of
Peace Events for a Nuclear Free World. Get
information about the issue through www.
icanw.org to be empowered to work for the
abolition of nuclear weapons. This is one of
the major milestones on the road to a more
peaceful world and hope for future generations
of humanity.
Please share your thoughts on peace
with us at iamwoman@xtra.co.nz and like
us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/
womanunlimited

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FEATURES

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10 October 2014

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Shall we go together?

Sasi Nambissan and Rita Sasidharan have produced the first-ever Tamil feature film, Serndhu Polama,
thats been shot entirely in New Zealand

Paula Ray

here is a first time for everything. And

this time, it is the making of a feature film
in Tamil called Serndhu Polama that is shot
completely in the picturesque landscapes of
New Zealand.
The faces behind this production are Sasi
Nambissan and Rita Sasidharan, who have
lived in NZ for the past 17 years. While Sasi
is a Chemical Engineer by profession and
works as Projects and Process Engineer at a
multinational corporation in Manukau, Rita is
a Medical Oncologist at Auckland Hospital.
They have two sons who are currently pursuing
their final years in engineering.
So what connects them with film production?
It is my husbands passion for arts, music,
dance drama which brought us into making
of this movie. He is keen (just like his dad, P
SankaranKutty, in Kerala, India, who was a
lawyer and Mridangam artiste) on promoting
young talents, especially in dance drama,
explains Rita.
We did a musical show called Taj Mahal
in 2012, which staged 110 artistes from multiethnic communities of Auckland and performed
twice at Aotea Centre and Dorothy Winstone
Theatre. It was a major breakthrough and was
commented as best Indian show witnessed in
the past 25 years, comparable to Broadway
shows. We did all these through the company
we formed named Aiswarya Entertainments
Ltd in 2009, says Sasi.
During our early years together, due
to family commitments and professional
responsibilities, Sasi was not able to pursue his
passion, says Rita. Once these responsibilities
were reasonably settled, they started Aiswarya
Entertainments to promote arts and culture and
facilitate cultural integration between the two
countries.
Serndhu Polama is a travel love story of
an NZ-based young Indian couple and their

Sasi Nambissan and Rita Sasidharan

The film producers (above); cast and crew of Serndhu Polama (top and below)

childhood friends. The narrative, which also has

elements of a crime thriller, depicts the bonding
between siblings and includes four song that
have been composed by Vishnu Mohan Sitara.
The cast and crew for the film are mainly
from India. VinayRai (a native of Karnataka)
and Madhurima Banerjee (Bengali, settled in
Mumbai and has worked on several Telugu and
Tamil films) comprise the lead actors. The other
actors include Tamil veteran actor Thampi
Ramaiah and Thalai Vasal. Vijay, Arun Sasi,
Preeti Paul and Nandu are upcoming artistes
from Telugu film industry. There are 15 child
artistes from New Zealand and a total of 75
technicians.
We have ensured a multi-ethnic mix of
artistes and technicians, according to the
vision of Aiswarya Entertainments, says Sasi.

Sasi is keen on
promoting young
talents, especially
in dance drama...
The narrative has
elements of a crime
thriller
The director for the film is Anil Kumar, who
has worked in 39 films in South India and the
director of photography is Sanjeev Shankar,

who had worked in almost 70 films. The audio

track of the film was launched in Auckland in
early August at Presbyterian Church Hall in Ti
Rakau Drive, Botany.
Our experience from Taj Mahal gave us
the courage to venture into film production.
This is not just a commercial venture for
us, but a dream project. In alignment with
Aiswarya Entertainments vision, we have
given opportunities to many new comers in this
movie who are extremely talented but never
had that first opportunity, explains Sasi.
The film production was completely
managed by the couple, and their two associates,
Jiju Mathew and Visakh Kumar. Budgeting the
shoots and people management, planning for
costumes were handled by them together.
Challenges during the production process
were too many, says Rita. As the main crew
was from India, they were not familiar with
the safety practices in NZ. The location scout
manager found it difficult as location permit
had to be south prior to the shoots. But Sasis
production management experience came in
handy, adds Rita.
What helped was the fact that unlike India,
Kiwis are not interested in watching film
shoots. Thats why we did not have to manage
a crowd, says Rita. The other challenge was to
find extra artists on a day to day basis, because
Kiwis were not really after acting in movies.
All said and done, the film is complete. It
has gone for clearance from the census board
in Chennai, India. Serndhu Polama is due for
release in November 2014 and it will have
subtitles in several south Indian languages,
including English, to make it accessible to a
wider audience.
Whats next? We have a plan for 2016:
another south Indian movie production, says
Rita. Several stories have already reached their
desk and Sasi has already begun discussions
with potential artistes from India. Its time to
wait and watch what the next scene unfolds.

ENTERTAINMENT

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

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EVENTS

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

WHATSOn
Auckland Diwali Festival
2014

Date: 11-12th October 2014

Time: 12 to 9 pm0
Venue: Aotea Square, Queens Street,
Auckland
The two-day Auckland Diwali Festival brings
Aucklanders and visitors of all ages and
ethnic backgrounds together to celebrate and
experience Indian culture in its many exciting
forms.
Come along and enjoy exciting live
performances by local and international
dancers and singers, including the thrilling
Radio Tarana Bollywood dance competition.
Sample a huge range of delectable Indian
foods and sweets or join in one of the Rangoli
floor art workshops. Theres also street
theatre, lighting displays and a dazzling Barfoot
& Thompson fireworks display.

Manukau Police Diwali

Date: 17th October 2014

Time: 12 noon to 1 pm0
Venue: Whare Wananga Room, Manukau
Police Station, 42 Manukau Station Road,
Manukau
You are invited to join Manukau Police to
celebrate Indian festival of lights- Diwali. See
live dance performances and enjoy yummy
Indian Food. This is free event but Limited
seats available. Please RSVP: Anna.Mann@
policegovt.nz

Waitakere Diwali 2014

Date: 18 October 2014
Time: 11 am to 10 pm
Venue: The Trust Arena, Central park
drive, Henderson

Waitakere Indian Association (WIA) is once

again gearing for its annual Diwali event in
Henderson where we will see the biggest
indoor Diwali event in New Zealand. Waitakere
Diwali, as usual, will be held at Trusts Arena
culminating in grand fireworks display. This
year the Ram Leela will be performed by
the ISKCON group, also there will be three
students from Waitakere College from nonIndian background that will be talking about
Diwali. Free entry! For more information or
enquiries call: 021 047 7414

Retail business safety

seminar

Date: 13th and 14th October 2014

Time: 6 pm to 7:30 pm
Venue: Manukau Police Station, 42
Manukau Station Road, Manukau
Counties Manukau Police has designed a
safety programme which needs your input
as well as collaboration. An open discussion
and Police presentation will be held. Limited
parking is available outside the Manukau Police
Station. Alternatively paid parking is available in
a car park located next to the Manukau Police
Station building. Light Refreshments will be
provided. Please do attend the programme
and if you have any further questions, please
contact Sergeant Gurpreet Arora on 021-1910461 or 09-263-2776

Rangrasiya

Date: 1st November 2014

Time: 6:30 pm onwards0
Venue: Mt Albert War Memorial hall, 773
New North Road, Mt Albert Auckland
On the occasion of Diwali, Migrant Heritage
Charitable Trust Inc (regd) is proud to bring

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to you an immensely popular and talented

artist Dhanashree Pandit Rai to New Zealand.
Dhanashree is one of the leading exponents of
the THUMRI form of music and her repertoire,
besides khayal, consists of thumri, chaiti, hori,
kajri , sawan, jhoola etc. Vocal: Dhanashree
Pandit Rai, Tabla: Manjit Singh (Rhythm School
of Music), Samvadini: Amir Bhalodkar. Tickets
for $20 available from 1st October 2014 at:
Yogijis Food Mart, 26 Carr Road, Mt Roskill,
Auckland.
Contact: Yogijis - 624 5757 or Varsha
0272435353

Tempo Dance Festival

Date: 7 October- 19 October

Time: Look up website for event time of
all days
Venue: Q Theatre, 305 Queen Street,
Auckland
Tempo Dance Festival is New Zelands
foremost annual dance festival. It features
over 700 dance artists, including professional
dancers and choreographers across many
different gener of dance. Adult, child, student
and concession prices available. Family ticketsspecial price for 2 adults & 2 children for select
family shows. Book you tickets at www.tempo.
co.nz or direct at www.qtheatre.co.nz for all
shows except Amanimal and Red which are at
the Musgrove Studio contact www.maidment.
auckland.ac.nz

HELP LINE
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Youthline
Phone: 0800 37 66 33Free txt 234
Email: talk@youthline.co.nz
Website: http://www.youthline.co.nz
Services: Family services, legal services,
health services, caregivers, youth services,
basic needs, ethnic services, education and
training, Family violence, Special needs/
disability, employment, basic needs.
Auckland Womens Centre
Phone: 09 376 3227
Fax:09 376 1817
Email: info@womenz.org.nz
Working Hours: Mon - Fri, 9am - 4 pm
Website: http://awc.org.nz/
Services: Affordable, quality welfare and
support services,personal development
educational opportunities, events and
collective advocacy on womens issues.
Auckland Regional Migrant Service
Phone: 09 625 2440
Working hours: 9am-4pm (Mon to Fri)
Service: Settlement information, English
language courses and employment services
Healthline
Phone: 0800 611 116
Working hours: 24 hours
Service: Speak to a nurse for health related
information. Advice provided in several
languages.

www.iwk.co.nz
10 October 2014

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