The South Asian Times
e x c e l l e n c e
Vol.12 No. 23 October 5-11, 2019
Trump challenges House
on impeachment vote
Washington: House Speaker
Nancy Pelosi did not rule out a
vote by the full chamber on its
impeachment inquiry into
President Trump ̶ but she
restated her belief on Friday that
none is required for it to move
ahead.
Pelosi, D‑Calif., said on a trip to
Atlanta that she was unmoved by
calls from the White House for a
full vote. Trump said earlier in the
day that he would send a letter to
the Speaker, which was expected
to demand action by the full
House.
"We may decide to do it, but it
has nothing to do with the presi‑
dent saying what he's saying,"
Pelosi told reporters.
Later on Friday, top House
Shanti Fund celebrates
Gandhi@150, honors 4
Hauppauge, NY: Shanti Fund cel‑
ebrated the 150th birth anniver‑
sary of Mahatma Gandhi at the
Suffolk County Executive
Building here on October 2. Four
prominent people were honored
at the well‑attended event with
Mahatma Gandhi Peace & Non‑
AIA DIWALI SPECIAL 13-26
i n j o u r n a l i s m
80 Cents
Pelosi says she's unmoved even as the President openly asked
China and Ukraine to probe Biden. (Photo courtesy AP)
chairmen tasked with guiding the
inquiry issued subpoenas to act‑
ing White House Chief of Staf f
Violence Award for their contri‑
butions to community while
maintaining the Gandhian phi‑
losophy and ethics. Posing in
Continued on page 4
SEE DETAILED STORY
ON PAGE 25‑26.
SHANTI FUND 25
New York Edition
Mick Mulvaney seeking pertinent
do cuments. T hey pointed to
Continued on page 4
AIA Deepavali has
new attractions
this time
AIA‑NY President Harish Thakkar
New York: While welcoming one
and all to the Deepavali festival
this Sunday at South Street
Seaport in Manhattan, AIA‑NY
President Harish Thakkar revealed
to The South Asian Times some of
the new attractions he has intro‑
duced, such as Vegan Expo in asso‑
ciation with World Vegan Vision, a
Continued on page 4
SEE AIA DEEPAVALI SPECIAL
SECTION̶PAGES 13‑23.
IMMIGRATION 35
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India's stature
rising on
world stage:
PM Modi
Kashmir’s intractable challenge had
to be met: EAM Jaishankar
PM Modi was felicitated at an event organized by the Gujarat unit of
the BJP in Ahmedabad. He revealed there that Trump agreed to a
round of the Howdy, Modi! stadium after the speeches at his request
without considering security protocol. (Photo IANS)
Ahmedabad/Washington: India's Their attending the Howdy, Modi
stature is rising on the world stage event was very special," he said.
and a glimpse of the respect the "T he fact that India always
country has globally was seen dur‑ believes in taking everyone along
ing the 'Howdy, Modi!' event in has also been noted," Modi said.
Houston, Prime Minister Narendra "Respect for India is increasing all
Modi said on Wednesday. over. One can experience the
The world can see that India is at change," he added.
the forefront of several positive A large poster of Modi and US
changes taking place at the world President Donald Trump was put
stage, he said, during an event up on stage.
organized by BJP's state unit to "The strength and the value of
felicitate him for his speech at the Indian passport has increased. The
UN General Assembly. world sees those holding Indian
"At the Houston prog ram, passport with respect," Modi said.
Republicans and Democrats spoke. Continued on page 4
SPIRITUAL AWARENESS 38 excellence in journalism
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
Mingling with the pro‑Modi crowd at UN rally
Special to
The South Asian Times
United Nations: As the leaders of
India and Pakistan addressed the
74th UN General Assembly last
week, tens of thousands of demon‑
strators gathered nearby shouting
slogans for and against them.
T here was also a third set of
demonstrators who demanded
independence for the Jammu‑
Kashmir region.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi,
in his statesman‑like address,
focused on such subjects as peace
and harmony, as well as climate
change and environment. His
Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan
hig hlig hted “the plig ht” of
Kashmiris after Indian clampdown.
Milling among the pro‑Modi
crowd, estimated to be 5,000, was
community leader Animesh
Goenka, who was jubilant over the
speech. “Modi ji is an embodiment
of peace. He stresses Sabka Saath
Sabka Vikaas (all‑round progress
by taking everybody along).” He
In reversal for Asian-Americans, Judge
upholds Harvard's race-conscious admissions
Boston, MA: Harvard University
does not discriminate against
Asian American students through
its use of race‑conscious admis‑
sions, a federal judge ruled in a
decision re leased on Tuesday.
Writing that the university's sys‑
tem "passes constitutional muster,"
Allison D. Burroughs, a
U.S. district judge,
added that the court
"will not dismantle a
very fine admissions
prog ram … sole ly
because it could do bet‑
ter."
The verdict closes the
first chapter in a case
that was filed against
Harvard in 2014.
T he university was sued by
Students for Fair Admissions, a
membership organization that says
Harvardʼs admissions policies dis‑
criminate against Asian American
applicants. T he organizationʼs
founder is Edward Blum, the same
activist who was behind the case
that claimed the University of
Texas at Austinʼs admissions policy
TRISTATE COMMUNITY
Many of the rallyists spoken to believed PM Modi
will set everything right in India.
pointed out that PM Modi also
spoke about Vasud haiva
Kutumbakam and Sarve Bhavantu
Sukhinaha (ʻThe world is one fami‑
lyʼ, and ʻMay all be happyʼ).
Naipal Sing h, 60, a New
Jerseyan, was patiently waiting for
the PM to appear at the rally
because somebody told him he
discriminated against a white stu‑
dent.
That case made it up to the U.S.
Supreme Court, where UT‑Austinʼs
policy was upheld in 2016. Legal
scholars say the case ag ainst
Harvard could wind up there as
well, and if it does, it will be decid‑
ed by a much more conservative
bench. A new ruling could have
serious implications for how and
whether colleges can consider a
studentʼs race when making deci‑
sions about whom to admit.
Students for Fair Admissions had
argued that Harvard penalizes
Asian American students when
they award points based on appli‑
would pass by after the UN
address.
Many others too were hopeful of
seeing their beloved leader, as the
crowd would break into chants of
Modi, Modi! Modi, however, did
not make in an appearance.
Modi has a greater fan following
in New Jersey than in nearby New
cantsʼ personalit ies; Asian
Americans consistently ranked
lower on that metric and were
therefore denied admission, the
group alleged, despite their higher
test scores and grades.
Lawyers for Harvard agreed that
the university considers race when
evaluating applications, but
disag reed on how.
Admissions officers took the
stand to explain that having a
racially diverse class benefits
all students at Harvard and is
crucial to helping the univer‑
sity meet its educat ional
goals. T hey said Asian
American applicants do not
get penalized, but that black
and Hispanic students do
sometimes get a “tip” when admis‑
sions of ficers are awarding an
overall score for applicants.
Much of the testimony during
the trial came from two expert
economists ̶ one for each side ̶
who produced statistical analyses
of Harvardʼs admissions data.
T his decision is like ly to be
appealed.
October 5-11, 2019
York or Connecticut as evidenced
in the number of people who came
from the Garden State.
A frail looking Arvind Sant came
from Staten Island. He said, “How
can we keep quiet if they
(Pakistan) keep on bothering us?
Itʼs in their own interest that they
should leave us alone. Legally we
have already solved the problem
(of Kashmir), but as for the ground
reality, maybe not yet.” Manu
Patel, 75, belongs to the India
Business Association in Edison, NJ.
“Pakistan has been indulging in
ethnic cleansing of its minorities,”
he said. “Iʼm confident he (Modi)
will set right the situation not only
in Kashmir, but the entire country.”
A follower of of the Hare
Krishna movement was chanting
along with his colleagues. He said
a leader like Modi would be able to
establish a Hindu state in India but
clarified that such a state would
not discriminate against minorities
as Hinduism is the most tolerant
re ligion. Some 40 buses were
pressed into service to ferry many
Tulsi Gabbard meets
PM Modi in New York
New York: Presidential hopeful
Rep. Tulsi Gabbard met w ith
Indiaʼs Prime Minister Narendra
Modi here last Friday before he
flew back to India.
Gabbard we lcomed Prime
Minister Modi to the United States
and they had a discussion on a
wide range of issues, highlighting
the importance of the long‑stand‑
ing relationship the United States
shares with India. In a statement
she released, she said, “We dis‑
cussed the situation in Kashmir,
civil rights, empowering women
and addressing poverty, as well as
the concern about escalating ten‑
3
of the participants to the city.
Slog ans such as “Mo di hai to
mumkin hai” were raised frequent‑
ly. Pro‑Modi banners abounded.
Some other demonstrat ing
groups had other agenda.
Ravi Mahey, 50, and a group rep‑
resenting Begampura Cultural
Society and International Bahujan
Organization (NRI wing) were
seeking a temple for Ravidas, a
saint revered by Dalits in India.
Mahey alleged that a Ravidas tem‑
ple in Delhi was razed by the Mopi
government.
A group of Khalistanis cried for
freedom from India.
There was a huge pro‑Pakistan
rally. But there was also a group
condemning the Imran Khan gov‑
ernment for its “atrocities” in
Pakistan‑occupied Kashmir. There
were others who blasted
Islamabad on various counts.
All the protests and demonstra‑
tions kept the police on tenter‑
hooks and the UN area wore the
look of a war zone for at least half
a day last Friday.
The first
Hindu
American
running for
President,
Tulsi Gabbard
feels a natural
affinity for
PM Modi and
India.
sions with Iran.” Though she could
not attend the sensational ʻHowdy,
Modi!ʼ event in Houston because of
her presidential campaign obliga‑
tions, Gabbard released a video
message welcoming the Prime
Minister Narendra Modi to the
United States. She also released an
ad campaign in print and TV to
that ef fect. Gabbard is the first
Hindu elected to US congress and
has been close to Prime Minister
Modi, who had sent her gifts on
her wedding in 2015 and she
attended both his previous diaspo‑
ra outreach events in New York
and San Jose.
 4 October 5-11, 2019 TURN PAGE TheSouthAsianTimes.info

India's stature rising on world terrorism”. ingness to accommodate congressional

Indian Embassy stage: PM Modi

Continued from page 1
“The choice as this Government came
back to power was clear. Either we had
requests for testimony or documents.
"The lawyers think they've never seen

celebrates 150th "The fact that the US President came to
the Indian event and stayed there for
such a long t ime was g reat. After
Birth Anniversary of speeches, when I requested him, he
came for a round of stadium without
more of past policies and the prospect
of further radicalization. Or we had a
decisive change in the landscape and a
change of direction towards de‑radical‑
ization.
any thing so unfair," Trump said.
"They've never seen anything so unjust.
I've been president now for almost
three years, and I've been going
through this for almost three years. It's

Mahatma Gandhi considering security protocol. I thank

External Affairs Minister Jaishankar presents a
half‑bust statue of Mahatma Gandhi to Speaker
Nancy Pelosi as Ambassador Harsh V. looks on,
during the celebration of Mahatma Gandhi's
150th Birth Anniversary.
Washington: As part of the celebrations to mark the
150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the
Indian Embassy here organized a commemorative
event at the Library of Congress on October 2. A
one‑day exhibition on the life and teachings of
Mahatma Gand hi was he ld at the Library of
Congress.
The exhibition was followed by an event where the
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Nancy
Pelosi, was the Guest of Honor.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Speaker
Pelosi addressed the gathering. Jaishankar spoke
about the influence of the Mahatma on India's inde‑
pendence struggle and how his ideas had been the
key factor in bringing about social change in India.
He also spoke about the various flagship programs
of the government of India and how they were based
on the ideals of the Mahatma.
Earlier in the day, EAM Jaishankar and
Ambassador Harsh Vardhan Shringla offered floral
tributes at the Statue of Mahatma Gandhi in front of
the Embassy. Jaishankar briefly interacted with
members of the Indian community at the event.
him and all those who organized the
event," Modi said.
"In a way, the world is looking at
India with great eagerness. The world
was curious about India, a huge coun‑
try with a vibrant democracy and it is
hopeful that India's participation will
be most significant whenever there are
opportunities to bring about global
changes," he said.
India has the capacity to take the
world together due to our ideals, behav‑
iour and culture, he said.
He said during his US visit, Mahatma
Gandhi was given "real tribute" by
world leaders at the United Nations.
Meanwhile, Indiaʼs External Af fairs
Minister S. Jaishankar has said that the
revocation of special status of Kashmir
was part of India pitting long‑term
thinking over short‑term calculations,
which involved deep structural changes
and ambitious socio‑economic initia‑
tives and what were presumed to be
intractable challenges had to be
addressed, “not ducked”.
Addressing the Center for Strategic
and International Studies think tank, on
the topic, “Preparing for a Dif ferent
Era”, he said: “Preparing for a more
compet it ive and complex era w ill
require a dif ferent mindset. For a
nation like India, this would be in addi‑
tion to the changes induced by its climb
up the global power hierarchy.
“In this world, what were presumed
to be intractable challenges will have to
be addressed, not ducked. An example
to point is that of the recent changes in
the Indian State of Jammu and
Kashmir.”
On Pakistanʼs stand on Kashmir, he
said that for many years, “India sought
a solution while Pakistan was comfort‑
able with continuing with cross‑border
“The economic costs of the status quo
were visible in the absence of entrepre‑
neurship and shortage of job opportuni‑
ties. The social costs were even starker:
in discrimination against women, in
lack of protection for juveniles, in the
refusal to apply affirmative action and
in denial of the right to information,
education and work.
“All this added up to security costs as
the resulting disaf fection‑fed sepa‑
ratism and fueled a neighborʼs terror‑
ism. At a broader level, these realities
also contradicted our commitment that
no region, no community and no faith
would be left behind.
“The legislative changes made this
summer put India and the entire region
on the road to long‑term peace. That is
the reality today in the making. And
this is the India that will navigate the
world which I have described just now,”
Jaishankar said.
Trump challenges House on
impeachment vote
Continued from page 1
statements Trump made at a press con‑
ference earlier this week saying he
"always cooperate[s]."
"The White House has refused to
engage with̶or even respond to̶mul‑
tiple requests for documents from our
Committees on a voluntary basis. After
nearly a month of stonewalling, it
appears clear that the President has
chosen the path of defiance, obstruc‑
t ion, and cover‑up," Inte lligence
Committee Chairman Adam Schif f, D‑
Calif.; Foreign Af fairs Committee
Chairman Eliot Enge l, D‑N.Y.; and
Oversight and Government Reform
Committee Chairman Elijah Cummings,
D‑Md., said in a joint statement.
Reporters asked Trump earlier in the
day at the White House about his will‑
almost become, like, a part of my day."
Trump has gone back and forth about
what he may or may not release from
w ithin the administrat ion on the
Ukraine affair, and he wasn't clear on
Friday about whether he might stop
cooperating short of a full House vote.
That issue faced its first test not long
after Pe losi spoke, when House
Demo crat ic chairman announced
they're requesting documents from
Vice President Pence about his dealings
with the government of Ukraine.
Investigators want to know about the
role Pence may have played in commu‑
nicating Trump's desires to Ukrainian
leaders that its government launch
investigations that might help Trump in
the 2020 election.
Shanti Fund celebrates
Gandhi@150, honors 4
Continued from page 1
front of the Gandhi statue are Shanti
Fundʼs Arvind Vora and Bakul Matalia
w ith Chie f Guest Consul General
Sandeep Chakravorty and honorees
Kamlesh Mehta, Dr. Kirit Gosalia, Rajesh
Jain and Supdt. Kishore Kuncham.
(Photo: Parveen Chopra)
AIA Deepavali has new
attractions this time
Continued from page 1
Fashion Show featuring traditional
Indian clothes, and Dandiya on the
main stage. The young and young at
heart can look forward to Amar
Sandhu, ʻAmericaʼs very own Urban
Desi Star with Global Hitsʼ, and Nach
Inferno intercollegiate competition.
T he regular fixtures like Ramayan
enactment will be there. And the day‑
long festivities will culminate in a
crescendo of fireworks lighting up the
New York sky.

Chairman and Co-Founder Consultants New Delhi Bureau News Service

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TheSouthAsianTimes.info TRISTATE COMMUNITY October 5-11, 2019 5

Dhoni plays in his 1st UNGA: Indiaʼs young diplomatic

tournament at NJ golf club
By now an accomplished golfer, star cricketer MS Dhoni together
with local member Rajiv Sharma finished 2nd in the members
tournament of Metuchen Golf Club. He has committed to
playing every year in the tournament.
Metuchen, NY: The Metuchen Golf
and Country Club based in
Metuchen, NJ, has announced that
the legendary cricketer Mahendra
Singh Dhoni, who has been made an
honorary member of the club,
recently played in his 1st major
tournament of member champi‑
onship. He has committed himself
to play each year in this tourna‑
ment. He has also expressed his
desire of visiting the club for
Member guest tournament to be
held in June ʻ2020.
The former captain of the Indian
cricket team, World Cup winner and
recipient of the Padma Bhushan
award, Dhoni has of late become
quite an accomplished golfer.
Together with local member Rajiv
Sharma, he played five matches in
the tournament and they won four
of their five matches, finishing 2nd
in their flight category.
While in New Jersey, Dhoni was
able to play in a few surrounding
golf courses but maintained that
“Metuchen is the best”. Dhoni has
been away from cricket since Indiaʼs
World Cup ended in a semi‑final
defeat against New Zealand earlier
this summer. He served with the
Indian Army for a while, and has
now moved his focus to playing golf
in the USA. The Metuchen Golf and
Country Club made Dhoni an hon‑
orary member, where he played his
first tournament on September 13.
Dhoni was introduced to the club by
his friend Rajiv Sharma three years
ago. Dhoni's future has been the
subject of intense speculation, with
former India captain Sunil Gavaskar
suggesting that he should retire on
his own terms and not be pushed
out by management.
brigade is leading from the front
New York: Another of Indiaʼs
bright young diplomats, Vidisha
Maitra, was deployed to counter
Pakistan PM Imran Khanʼs rant
at the UN General Assembly,
when India exercised its “right of
reply” on Friday. Vidisha, an IFS
officer from the 2009 batch who
recently joined the UN mission,
said “PM Khanʼs threat of
unleashing nuclear devastation
qualifies as brinksmanship, not
statesmanship.”
She continued, “Rarely has the
General Assembly w itnessed
such misuse, rather abuse, of an
opportunity to reflect. Words Indian diplomat Vidisha Maitra gave a fitting reply
matter in diplomacy. Invocation to Imran Khanʼs ʻhate speechʼ at UNGA.
of phrases such as “pogrom”, defender of Osama bin Laden?” charge against Shah Mehmood
“bloodbath”, “racial superiority”, From Enam Gambhir, who Qureshiʼs alleg at ions at the
“pick up the gun” and “fight to delivered a statesmanlike per‑ UNHRC earlier this month, say‑
the end” reflect a medieval mind‑ formance in 2017 to Vimarsh ing,
set and not a 21st century Aryan, the young Kashmiri diplo‑ “This is an ill‑disguised ef fort
vision.” Maitra conquered social mat who countered Pakistani to advance its territorial ambi‑
media on Saturday with her ref‑ allegations at the UNHRC earlier tions. We are not surprised at
erence to Imran as “Imran Khan this month to Maitra, MEA has Pakistanʼs hysterical statements
Niazi”, an instant reference to Lt successfully showcased Indiaʼs with false, fabricated narratives
Gen AAK Niazi who had surren‑ diversity and the mettle of its aimed to politicize and polarize
dered to Indian Army in Dhaka in young diplomats. this forum.”
1971. In 2017, Enam, who read out On Saturday Maitra hit out:
Maitra asked: “Can Pakistan Indiaʼs right of reply after then “T his is a country that has
PM confirm that it is home to Pak PM Shahid Khaqan Abbasi shrunk the size of its minority
130 UN designated terrorists accused India of numerous community from 23% in 1947 to
and 25 terrorist entities listed by crimes, first described the neigh‑ 3% to day and has subjected
the UN? Will Pakistan deny that boring country as “terroristan”. Christians, Sikhs, Ahmadiyas,
FATF has put the country on “In its short history, Pakistan has Hindus, Shias, Pashtuns, Sindhis
notice for its violations of more become a geography synony‑ and Balochis to draconian blas‑
than 20 of the 27 key parame‑ mous with terror. Pakistan is phemy laws, systemic persecu‑
ters? And would PM Imran Khan now Terroristan.” tion, blatant abuse and forced
deny...that he was an open Vimarsh Aryan led the Indian conversions”.

Prof Panagariya Keynote at Mattoo Center for India Studies gala

Stony Brook, NY: Over 200 people gathered
on September 21 at Leonardʼs Palazzo in
Great Neck, NY, to celebrate 22 years of
accomplishments of the Mattoo Center for
India Studies at Stony Brook University.
Professor Arvind Panagariya, former
Chairman of Nit i Aayog and Jagdish
Bhagwati Professor of Indian Political
Economy at Columbia University, delivered
the Keynote address. Giving a capsule histo‑
ry of Indiaʼs economic reforms, he declared
that India is expected to become a seven tril‑
lion dollar economy, the worldʼs third
largest, before 2030.
Stony Brookʼs Interim Provost, Dr.
Ming hua Zhang, thanked the Indian
American community for their unwavering
support, which has enabled the Center to
become “an academic success, a community
asset, and an international resource on
India.” Dr. Nicole Sampson, Interim Dean of
the College of Arts and Sciences, praised the
Center as an “incubator of creative work,
scholarship, and teaching, in fundamental
liberal arts as well as medicine, technology
and business.”
Welcoming the guests, philanthropist Dr.
Nirmal K. Mattoo noted that the Centerʼs
remarkable growth and expansion over the
past two decades is a model of the Indian
American communityʼs partnership with a
public university to create expertise and
President for Advancement, organized a get
together in Manhattan for India Studies
alumni. This year, Sanskrit is again being
taught after a hiatus. The Center is also mak‑
ing its impact far beyond the campus, with
study abroad programs, invited expert cours‑
es, collaborative research projects and joint‑
ly sponsored seminars in India.
A highlight of the evening was the recogni‑
tion of the arrival of the renowned authority
on Indian philosophy, Professor Arindam
Chakrabarti as the inaugural Nirmal K. and
Augustina Mattoo Chair in Classical Indic
Humanities. Prof. Chakrabartiʼs inaugural
address, “Pain, Poetry, and Practice of
Philosophy,” has been published by the
Center. Prof. Chakrabarti and the Center are
spearheading a two‑day celebration of the
Dignitaries at the Stony Brook Mattoo Center Gala, (from left): A.J. Nagaraj, Prof.
150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
Aravind Panagariya, Interim Dean of College of Arts and Sciences Nicole Sampson,
On October 2nd, Professor Tridip Suhrud,
Interim Provost Minghua Zhang, Mattoo Chair Professor Arindam Chakrabarti, Dr
former director of the Sabarmati Ashram
Nirmal Mattoo, and Director of the Center Prof. S.N. Sridhar.
was scheduled to deliver a lecture “What do
resources for the study of India. guished scholars and artists, publications we celebrate when we celebrate Gandhi?”
Professor S.N. Sridhar, founding Director of and outreach programs, and student scholar‑ and on October 3rd lead a panel discussion
the Center, remarked that the Center has ships, the Center has emerged as one of most on “True and False Civilization.”
succeeded in mainstreaming India in the uni‑ high profile India Studies programs in the The Gala featured elegant Bharatanatyam
versity curriculum and showcased Indiaʼs country. In March, through the Dr. Krishna and fusion dances by Sophia Salingaros and
contributions to world civilization and Gujavarty Seminar on Leadership and was ably compered by Urvashi Kaul of
Indian Americansʼ role in American society. Values, the University hosted Preet Bharara, Columbia University.
With 33 India‑related courses taught the former U.S. Attorney for the Southern For details, contact Professor S.N. Sridhar
annually, impactful faculty research, confer‑ District of New York, to an overflow audi‑ at (631) 327‑1318, s.srid har@
ences, exhibits, lecture series by distin‑ ence. In May, Mr. A.J. Nagaraj, Assistant Vice‑ stonybrook.edu.
 6 October 5-11, 2019 LOCAL GOVERNMENT TheSouthAsianTimes.info

NYC offers advice to Mayor de Blasio announces launch of

immigrants ahead of Neighborhood Organizing Census Committees
M
ayor Bill de Blasio announced We must encourage one another to fill their local NOCC by visiting NYC Census
Trump’s ‘public charge’ rule on Sept 25 the launch of New out the census and ensure we get an 2020ʼs website: nyc.gov/census. NOCC

N
York City Neighborhood accurate count.” “Engaging New Yorkers volunteers will primarily engage in four
ew York City officials and advocates are reaching
Organizing Census Committees (NOCCs), through NOCCs is a highly effective way organizing tactics: teach‑ins, phone bank‑
out to immigrant communities to provide infor‑
the cornerstone of NYC Census 2020ʼs to ensure City‑wide participation in the ing, “text‑banking,” and community can‑
mation about the Trump administrationʼs pend‑
Field Program. The NOCCs program Census,” said J. Phillip Thompson, Deputy vassing. “Our team is leading a multi‑
ing “public charge” rule. The policy, which could poten‑
seeks to recruit 2,500 volunteer Census Mayor for Strategic Policy Initiatives. pronged, campaign‑style strategy in coor‑
tially take effect Oct. 15, seeks to make it harder for
Ambassadors citywide to engage in local “Combined with our $19 million invest‑ dination with a broad range of stakehold‑
some immigrants to get their residency permit or a visa
census‑related outreach, with the ulti‑ ment to support community‑based cen‑ ers to proactively engage New Yorkers
if they receive social benefits or are likely to do so in the
mate goal of significantly increasing New sus education and organizing, NYC from all walks of life. We know that when
future. Immigration lawyers argue that the confusion
York Cityʼs self‑response rate in the 2020 Census 2020 is maximizing all of the our communities organize, thereʼs noth‑
caused by the rule represents a greater risk than the rule
Census. Cityʼs resources to engage as many peo‑ ing that can stop us. Thatʼs why weʼre
itself. Dan Smulian, from the Catholic Charitiesʼ Legal
“Successful campaigns come from the ple as possible in this critically important empowering everyday New Yorkers to
Services Department, advises taking confidential advice.
grassroots. Thatʼs why weʼre taking to count, especially from those within com‑ act as trusted voices in their own commu‑
He added that it is very important to get “the right guid‑
the streets to ensure all New Yorkers get munities that historically have not nities and help organize their neighbor‑
ance, as, in many cases, fear drives people to abandon
counted next year,” said Mayor de Blasio. engaged in the past.” Interested New hoods for a full 2020 count,” said NYC
programs that by definition would have no real impact
“Everyone in this city has a role to play. Yorkers can sign up to volunteer and join Census 2020 Director Julie Menin.
on their immigration case in the future.”

T
Recently, several organizations ̶ including El Diario,
own of Huntington offi‑
the Mayorʼs Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA), Catholic
Charities, the New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC),
cials, family and friends
of Lloyd Frazier, gath‑
Huntington dedicates street for
ʻHotel McDonaldʼsʼ good samaritan
the Hispanic Federation, the Legal Aid Society, NYLAG,
ered Sept 21 to name
the New York State Office for New Americans and
Highland Court in Huntington
Univisión 41 ̶ hosted an information hotline to offer
after the late owner of ʻHotel
advice about the rule. The phone bank initiative took Lloyd Frazier
McDonaldʼsʼ on Chambers
approximately 1,000 calls from concerned immigrants
Street in Manhattan, who pro‑
had provided
over six hours. Bitta Mostofi, Commissioner for the safe haven and
vided a safe haven and
Mayorʼs Office for Immigrant Affairs, warned that New 700,000 free
700,000 free meals to 9/11
York City will continue challenging “this assault to the meals to Ground
Ground Zero rescue and
health and wellbeing of communities” on all possible Zero workers.
recovery workers. Officials, family
grounds. “We are working to train the cityʼs residents to
Supervisor Chad A. and friends
make the best decisions without necessarily renouncing
Lupinacci served as master of attended the
the benefits they are entitled to. Eligibility for public pro‑
ceremonies. T he Town of street
grams has not changed,” she insisted. “New York City
Huntington was also repre‑ dedication
strongly opposes this wrongful rule and its threat to pre‑
sented by a few ceremony.
vent families to have access to food, health and other
Councilmembers. New York
social aids,” she added. Those with questions about the
State Assemblymen Andrew owner of the McDonald's wiches and the Frazier family Town of Huntington resident,
“public charge” rule can contact the city‑funded
Raia and Steve Stern also located at 729 Route 110 in brought coffee and donuts for lost his battle with 9/11‑relat‑
ActionNYC hotline at 800‑354‑0365 and say
attended the ceremony. Me lville, contributed the ceremony. ed lung cancer on January 17,
“public charge.”
Lloydʼs son Steven Frazier, McDonaldʼs breakfast sand‑ Lloyd Frazier, a life long 2006 at the age of 53.

TRISTATE

Memorable 5th annual picnic of Friends of MP NYNJ

F
riends of MP NYNJ had its 5th annual
picnic on Sept 21 in Pennington, NJ.
Around 300 members attended, hailing
from 5 North‑East states in the USA. And all
these have roots in different cities and towns
of Madhya Pradesh.
It was excellent sunny weather, beautiful
park surrounding and participants from all age
groups had an amazing time. Highlight of MP
are its food delicacies. The morning ʻIndore ka
Sarafaʼ was Pohe, Jalebi, Garadu; followed by
sumptuous tasty lunch of Puri, Shrikhand,
Aamras. Lunch was served by volunteers of
Friends of MP wearing the Malwi Pagdi.
Midday was chilled Jaljeera, Guddi ke Baal,
Baraf Gola. Some of the highlights of the Picnic
this year were: To preserve the environment,
FMP ladies team made table covers of reusable
cloth. There was a game for kids called ʻBest
out of Wasteʼ to make decorative things. Plants
were given as token gifts to elder citizens. A
scavenger hunt revolving around Narmada
river was organized to promote knowledge of
Madhya Pradesh. The teams were named after
famous women from MP: Sumitra, Ahilya, Lata,
Sushma, Aryama, Manikarnika. Even the
housie (tambola) game was made around
famous spots in MP. Toddlers, young kids,
teenagers, and adults all had games and cre‑
ative activities to indulge in. A team of volun‑
teers led by families of Jitendra Muchhal, Raj
Bansal, Rajesh Mittal, Pankaj Gupta, Sandeep
Jain, Anupam Sarwaikar, Anjani Mittal worked
hard over many months for planning and exe‑
cution of the picnic. For more info visit
www.friendsofMPNYNJ.com More than 300 members enjoyed bonhomie over stateʼs special delicacies
TheSouthAsianTimes.info NATIONAL October 5-11, 2019 7

ʻCan we have the territory of Kashmir without its people?ʼ

Washington DC: Delivering the
inaugural Rajiv Gandhi Lecture
here, Congress party leader Mani
Shankar Aiyar offered a blistering
critique of policies of Narendra
Modiʼs government and the overall
direction India is currently moving
toward. The former cabinet minis‑
ter spoke about the lasting impact
of the various policies and initia‑
tives introduced by Rajiv Gandhi,
who served as prime minister of
India from 1984 to 1989.
The Rajiv Gandhi Lecture was
organized by the Washington, DC
chapter of the Indian Overseas
Congress USA on September 17 as
part of a series to commemorate
the 75th birth anniversary of
Indiaʼs sixth prime minister.
Aiyar, a former IFS of ficer and
contemporary of Rajiv at Doon
School, offered an insiderʼs view on
a many challenges Gandhi tackled
during his premiership. He con‑
trasted his leadership with that of
Modi.
Delivering the inaugural Rajiv Gandhi Lecture in Washington DC, Aiyar was especially critical of
Mani Shankar Aiyar offered a blistering critique of Modiʼs the Modi regimeʼs Kashmir policy
policies and related how. Rajiv Gandhiʼs statesmanship and its treatment of the minorities.
achieved peace inside and outside India. “Can we have the territory of
Kashmir without the people of
Kashmir?” he asked. “If the people
of Kashmir are with us, as the gov‑
ernment is claiming, then why donʼt
you let them out, and put up
posters saying ʻModi zindabad!
Amit Shah zindabad!ʼ”
And in Assam, the government is
implementing a controversial citi‑
zenship rule that critics say will rob
millions of Muslims of Indian citi‑
zenship. In contrast, Aiyar high‑
lig hted many of Rajivʼs policy
achievements, both domestically
and on foreign affairs front, includ‑
ing his rappro chement w ith
Pakistan and China, and signing of
peace treat ies w ith re be ls in
Punjab, Assam, Mizoram and Sri
Lanka,
He said Rajiv Gandhiʼs reconcilia‑
tory measures was instrumental in
ending the insurgency in Punjab.
The then PM visited Punjab within
four months of the anti‑Sikh riots
and appointed Arjun Singh as gov‑
ernor to hold talks and enter into a
peace accord. This should serve as
a lesson to negotiate peace with
Kashmiris, 25 percent of whom
were “with us” before revocation of
Art icle 370 but 100 percent
“against us” now, Aiyar said. On the
foreign policy front, Rajiv became
the first prime minister after Nehru
to visit Pakistan, and it paved the
way for better relations and open‑
ing bilateral talks, Aiyar said.
Rajiv loved quoting Buddhaʼs
words often: “The only victory is
the one where there are no victors,”
and he cited these words even at a
UN address, the Congress leader
said. “If you donʼt trust Pakistan,
you are putting yourself on the
path of a nuclear bomb,” Aiyar said.
Another legacy of Rajiv, accord‑
ing to him, was the lowering of the
voting age to 18 years, which made
Indiaʼs youth part of the decision‑
making process.
IOC USA President Mohinder
Singh Gilzian and Vice Chairman
George Abraham spoke on the
o ccasion. T he org anizat ionʼs
Chairman Sam Pitroda addressed
the gathering from Chicago via
Skype. Other speakers included the
newly appointed president of the
DC Chapter Johnson Myalil and
chapter committee members Ashok
Batra and Rohit Tripathi.

Ajay Bhutoria holds President of India Shri Ramnath

Kovind addressed Mahatma
Gandhiʼs 150th Birth

fundraiser for Joe Biden

Anniversary organized by
Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti, New
Delhi. Seen in the photo, Dr. Ajit
Freemont, CA: Tech execu‑ Gupta of Delhi and Mr. Karamjit
Singh Dhaliwal, founding
tive, community leader,
president of Malwa Brothers
and philanthropist Ajay
Association, New York,
Bhutoria and his w ife
felicitating the President by
Vinita Bhutoria hosted Dr. presenting him the Ahimsa
Jill Biden last Saturday Vishwa Bharti memento.
here for a fundraiser for Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti is found‑
Joe Bidenʼs 2020 election ed by world renowned Jain
campaign. T he former Acharya Shri Lokesh Muni ji
Second Lady spoke at (second from right).
length about her husbandʼs
campaign and life long
work as a public servant.
“There is massive South
Asian support for Vice‑
Former Second Lady Dr Jill Biden with Ajya Bhutoria
(extreme right) and his family at the fundraiser. Devdutt Pattanaik decodes Indian
President Joe Biden across the nation,” took center stage, thanking the donors
said Ajay Bhutoria, National Finance and told the story about her faith and mythology on Radio Mirchi USA
Committee, Joe Biden for President 2020. overcoming the passing of her son, Beau
Dr. Biden was introduced by the hostsʼ Biden. She related how on the campaign
By SATimes Team
nine‑year‑old son, Yash: “I think Joe Biden trail people have urged her to convince
New York: Mythology is often categorized as a
was a great 47th Vice President of the Joe Biden to run for president, especially
passé and an uncool subject. The younger
United States, but I believe that he would during such a tumultuous time in the
Indians in India or abroad consume a large
be an even greater 46th President of the countryʼs history.
amount of content on a regular basis, but
United States!” The frontrunnerʼs wife expressed grati‑
mythological content is definitely not their go
“Joe Biden is running for President to tude for the donors, calling on them to
to choice. The Devdutt Pattanaik Show on
help restore the soul of this great nation – share their support with their friends and
Radio Mirchi, and now available on Radio
to rebuild the backbone of the United community, as she also expressed what Devdutt Pattanaik makes mythology
Mirchi USA, takes it from there and is geared
States – to unify the country. Bidenʼs she felt was important in a leader for the cool for the younger set.
to make mythology the buzz word for young
administration will be one of inclusivity, country.
listeners. Pattanaik, author of over 50 pub‑ name in the space of decoding mythology and
freedom of re lig ion, tolerance, and “You want them to hear what the presi‑
lished books on the subject such as Devlok, making the content consumer‑friendly. Within
respect,” said Ajay Bhutoria at the event. dent has to say, a president that we can be
Sita, Gita, Jaya, is here to make mythology the format of storytelling, Pattanaik, manages
“And today, we have what many have proud of, a president who brings people
more relatable, af fable and cooler for the to grip the audience by sharing
called Joe Bidenʼs ʻbiggest political asset,ʼ together̶instead of tearing families
younger audiences. The show is crafted remarkable facts about Indian mythology,
Dr. Jill Biden. A professor, mother, grand‑ apart,” added Biden. “A president who
around issues & subjects that apply to our and not shying away from hitherto taboo sub‑
mother, proud military mom, and commu‑ believes that our best days are ahead of
daily lives by integrating startling and interest‑ jects like LGBTQ and Indian mythology. Look
nity activist, Dr. Biden is a shining ray of us. That's my husband, Joe Biden. And
ing stories from mythology to address them. at some other topics of his podcasts: Radha
hope amidst the great challenges facing that's the future I want. And I think that's
The master storyteller, Devdutt Pattanaik, has and Krishna are relationship goals, Buddhism
America today.” the future you want too. And that's why
revolutionized the way we look at mythology goes viral, Did the Mahabharat era have inter‑
After his remarks, the frontrunnerʼs wife we're all here today.”
today. He is the top‑of‑the‑mind quintessential net and wifi?
 8 October 5-11, 2019 NATIONAL COMMUNITY TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Tributes pour in for NY gala and benefit concert usher

Houston's 'trailblazing'
in 25th anniversary of Pratham
Sikh Deputy
Sandeep Singh Dhaliwal, shot dead during a traffic stop, had been
granted permission to wear a turban and beard while on patrol.
Houston: Tributes poured in for
Sandeep Dhaliwal, the first Sikh
Deputy in Texas's Harris County,
who was killed in a kind of ambush
while on duty.
Dhaliwal, 42, was shot dead by
the suspect, Robert Solis, 47, on
Friday during a traf fic stop in the
county's Cypress area. Solis is
arrested and charged with capital
murder.
Dhaliwal joined the force 10 years
ago, and became a national figure
after convincing the Harris County
Sherif f's Department to allow him
to wear the articles of his Sikh faith
while on patrol.
Department of ficers shared pho‑
tographs and videos of a "communi‑
ty‑led" candlelight vigil held on
Saturday to honor the Deputy, the
BBC reported. Many residents also
shared tributes to him on social
media. Houston Mayor Sylvester
Turner said Dhaliwal was a "bold
and groundbreaking law enforce‑
ment officer because he sought and
received permission to patrol while
wearing a turban and beard. He was
a walking lesson in tolerance and
understanding.
The Sikh American Legal Defence
and Education Fund (SALDEF)
called Dhaliwal a "trailblazer for the
Sikh community"
Dhaliwal began his career in law
enforcement out of a desire to serve
after then‑Sherif f Adrian Garcia
reached out to strengthen the
department's relationship with the
Sikh community after deputies
botched a domestic violence call at
a Sikh family's home.
He was also very active at his gur‑
dwara, which held a special ceremo‑
ny after he became a Deputy.
New York: Pratham, one of India's
largest and most successful educa‑
tion‑focused charitable organiza‑
tions, celebrated on September
14, its 25th anniversary with a
gala and benefit concert that
raised $4 million.
Cipriani was the venue for din‑
ner and an intimate Sufi Music
concert with A.R. Rahman. Said
Rahul Mahajan, president of the
NY Tri‑State Chapter, “It is so
heartening to see the Tri‑State
community come together to sup‑
port Pratham. Their generosity
has enabled us to achieve our
fundraising goal and help Pratham
expand its literacy and learning
Pratham CEO Dr. Rukmini Banerji introducing twins
programs to hundreds of more
and athletes Anjali and Anchal Purabiya, graduates
communities.” of Prathamʼs Second Chance program.
Pratham USA Chairman Deepak
Raj echoed the sentiment: "What Banerji was joined on stage by social workers, and engineers.
Pratham has accomplished over twin sisters Anjali and Anchal In his two‑hour concert, A.R.
the last quarter‑century is remark‑ Purabiya, both g raduates of Rahman showcased popular Sufi
able. We look forward to trans‑ Prathamʼs Second Chance pro‑ film compositions, rearranged ver‑
forming many more lives in the g ram, which assists female sions of the masters of Qawwali
years ahead." dropouts in attaining their second‑ and culturally inspired collabora‑
Re flected Pratham CEO Dr. ary school certificates. The two tions. “Our long‑time dream of
Rukmini Banerji, “With our efforts competitive athletes spoke about performing Sufi music for human
over 25 years, over 95% of kids Prathamʼs role in continue their causes came true with this won‑
are in school.” In the next phase, education and pursuing their derful opportunity with Pratham,”
she said, the organization will shift dreams of one day competing in he tweeted during the evening.
from helping children who have the Olympics. Among prominent attendees
fallen behind to investing in them The attendees were shown a cel‑ were Consul General of India
early so they can “make the leap ebratory video featuring some of Sandeep Chakravorty, Mayor of
forward,” with a broader goal of the first children to attend a Hoboken Ravi Bhalla, and Chintu
increasing community involve‑ Pratham program in the slums of and Chirag Pate l of Amneal
ment in education. Mumbai. Today they are teachers, Pharmaceuticals.

PM Modi unveils unique Gandhi Inder Singh had become Indian

museum project in Houston diaspora institution in California
Houston: On September 22 when PM
Narendra Modi and President Trump said By Dr. Thomas Abraham the Global Organization of People of Indian
ʻHowdy!ʼ to the Indian diaspora in Houston, a GOPIO Chairman Origin (GOPIO) in 2004 and served as its
Chairman from 2009 to 2016. Later he

Porbandar born man set a unique stage to
introduce America to Mahatma Gandhiʼs lega‑
cy and impact.
PM Modi unveiled a plaque proclaiming the
groundbreaking of Eternal Gandhi Museum
Houston, which will be one of the worldʼs first
digital multimedia museums, and the only
one of its kind in the US. This unique new des‑
tination will keep the flame of Gandhiʼs legacy
and impact alive by presenting key historical
events associated with Gandhiʼs life and a
variety of interactive experiences inspired by
Gandhian thought.
At the ceremony, the PM Modi said, "The
Eternal Gandhi museum will be a prized cul‑
tural landmark in Houston. I have been asso‑
ciated with this effort for a while. It will sure‑
ly make Gandhi Ji's thoughts popular among
the youth."
T he museum is the brainchild of Atul
Kothari, who established T he Mahatma
Gandhi Library in Houston with his friends in
2002. They organize events to encourage the
spread of Gandhian philosophy. But Kothari
dreamed of a museum that would appeal to
Indian Americans and to Americans in gener‑
al. Then he received support from Bharat
Parekh, the president of ʻEternal Gandhi and
PM Modi being greeted by Atul Kothari,
brain behind the museum.
Special Projectsʼ at the Aditya Birla group.
In 2006, Kothari visited the Gandhi Smriti
in Delhi. “That is where I came to know about
the multimedia exhibition called the Eternal
Gandhi,” he said. “It was exactly what I had in
mind for a museum in the US.”
“Parekh readily agreed to donate the con‑
tent of one of their two traveling exhibitions.
With that our project started rolling,” Kothari
said.
Kothari aims to complete by 2021 the
museum of about 10,000 square feet to
house the Eternal Gandhi exhibits. The Board
of Trustees of Mahatma Gandhi Library has
already committed $1.1 million for the proj‑
ect, raised a total of $1.4 million and looks
forward to generous donations and support
to complete the project.
I
t was in 1981, 5 year after I founded became the Executive Trustee of GOPIO
Federation of Indian Americans (FIA) in Foundation till his death. A major contribution
New York that I learnt about Inder Singh of Inder in Southern California is launching
who organized an India Indian Heritage Foundation that
Independence Day celebration in TRIBUTE has been honoring academic
Los Angeles area. I called him up excellence and achievements of
and shared our successful experi‑ Indian American youth since
ence of bringing all Indian com‑ 1987.
munity groups in the New York Inder was passionate about
area under one umbrella of FIA honoring the forgotten Ghadar
and suggested him to do so too. heroes. He sensitized the Indian
He immediately changed his government to organize a sympo‑
groupʼs name to FIA Southern sium on Ghadar heroesʼ contribu‑
California. Since then, I worked tion to the countryʼs freedom
with him very closely and brought Inder Singh struggle and was instrumental in
him into the National Federation if the government deciding to reno‑
Indian American Associations (NFIA) and vate and establish a Ghadar Center as a muse‑
organized a successful national convention in um in San Francisco. A Republican, Inder Singh
1986 in LA. In 1988, Inder Singh came to DC also co‑founded the Asian & Pacific American
to testify before the Senate Foreign Relations Republicans Coalition, which became a char‑
Committee against massive military aid to tered organ of the California Republican Party
Pakistan. In 1989, when NFIA did the first in the 1990s. Inder Singh became an Indian
Global Convention of People of Indian Origin in diaspora institution in Southern California and
New York, Inder was NFIA President and was a all pan‑Indian community events there were
great team player and travelled to Canada to held under his leadership. It is a great loss for
reach out to our community and bring them to GOPIO, Indian community in the USA and the
the convention. He took over as President of Indian diaspora. May his soul rest in peace.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
Trump hits out at Pelosi & Schiff over impeachment inquiry
Washington: Calling the impeach‑
ment inquiry a "hoax", President
Donald Trump lashed out at House
Speaker Nancy Pe losi and
Intelligence Committee Chairman
Adam Schif f over the ongoing
probe.
"This is a hoax," Xinhua quoted
Trump as saying during the joint
press conference with Finnish
President Sauli Niinisto at the
White House on Wednesday. "This
is the greatest hoax."
T he impeachment inquiry,
announced by House Speaker
Nancy Pelosi on September 24,
stemmed from a whistleblower
complaint alleging that Trump had
pressured Ukrainian President
Volodymyr Zelensky during a July
25 phone call to investigate Joe
Biden, Democratic presidential
candidate for the 2020 election,
as well as issues related to alleged
Russian interference in the 2016
election.
Pelosi and House Intelligence
Bernie Sanders has
heart procedure, off-
campaign for a while
Washington: Sen.
Bernie Sanders is
recovering from an
emergency heart pro‑
cedure to treat a
blocked artery and
has canceled his
events “until further
notice,” his presiden‑
tial campaign
announced
Wednesday.
During a campaign
appearance in Las
Vegas on Tuesday
evening, the 78‑year‑
old Vermont senator
began experiencing
chest pains; video
showed Sanders resting against
a lectern at one point and asking for wishing him well and say he
for a chair to sit down, saying,
“Itʼs been a long day.”
“Following medical evaluation
and testing he was found to have ical emergency might affect us.
a blockage in one artery, and
two stents were successfully
inserted,” senior campaign advi‑
sor Jeff Weaver said in a state‑
ment. “Sen. Sanders is convers‑
ing and in good spirits. He will
be resting up over the next few
days,” the statement said.
In addition to canceling at
least 10 appearances scheduled
for Las Vegas and California
through Friday, the campaign
postponed a planned $1.3‑mil‑
lion television ad buy in Iowa.
Sanders tweeted Wednesday
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Intelligence Committee Chairman
Adam Schiff addressing the press on Wednesday.
Committee Chairman Adam Schiff
held a press conference earlier on
Wednesday, at which Pelosi said
her chamber had "no choice but to
go forward" with the impeachment
proceedings.
Schif f, for his part, said the
W hite House's attempt to
Presidential hopeful
Senator Bernie Sanders
afternoon to thank supporters
was “feeling good.” Then he
turned the topic to healthcare:
“None of us know when a med‑
And no one should fear going
bankrupt if it occurs. Medicare
for All!”
The news about the
Independent senator, a top
Democratic candidate with a
devoted following, sent a jolt
through the political world on
Wednesday morning. Any per‑
sistent questions about health
and longevity could have ramifi‑
cations not just for Sandersʼ
campaign, but also all the
Democratic front‑runner Joe
Biden and President Trump.
US AFFAIRS
stonewall the investigations cur‑
rently being undertaken by six
House committees "will be consid‑
ered further evidence of obstruc‑
tion of justice." Trump said the
impeachment inquiry was "a
fraudulent crime on the American
people." He added that he would
Biden and Sandersʼ woes mean
upswing for Warren
Washington: Bernie Sandersʼ
health issue, and Joe Biden get‑
ting dragged into the Ukraine
scandal, means that Senator
Elizabeth Warren is likely to ben‑
efit and may end up being the
Democratic nominee for presi‑
dent.
Already, the last few weeks have
seen Warren moving upward in
the polls and Biden moving slight‑
ly downward. It has been said that
Biden is running as the key mod‑
erate in the race and has benefit‑
ted from the fact that Warren and
Resolution introduced in US Senate
to commemorate Gandhi 150
Washington: Coinciding with the
150th birth anniversary of Mahatma
Gandhi, US lawmakers on
Wednesday introduced bipartisan
resolutions in the Congress to com‑
memorate the memory and legacy of
the apostle of peace.
In the Senate, it was introduced by
Senators Ted Cruz and Robert
Menendez, while in the House it was
introduced by Rep Grace Meng. The
Senate resolution recognizes
Gandhi's decades‑long struggle for
Indian independence from Great
Britain, and his pioneering of non‑
violent protest as a means of politi‑
cal change which helped to liberate
millions of Indians, and inspiring
peaceful activists around the world,
including Dr Martin Luther King, Jr.
The resolution supports the ideals
and goals of the International Day of
Non‑Violence and calls on all
October 5-11, 2019
work with "shifty Schiff and Pelosi
and all of them... because... I had a
great call with the President of
Ukraine." Trump asked Zelensky
on the phone to cooperate with his
personal attorney Rudy Giuliani
and Attorney General William Barr
to investigate a Ukrainian gas
company that might be related to
Biden, the former vice president,
and his son, Hunter Biden, accord‑
ing to a rough transcript of the
call released Sept. 25 by the White
House.
Holding in his hands a copy of a
New York Times report on
Wednesday saying Schif f got an
early account of the whistleblow‑
er's accusations, Trump said at the
press conference that it was a
"scandal" that Schif f knew the
whistleblower complaint before it
was filed. "I'd go a step further ‑‑ I
think he probably helped write it.
OK? That's what the word is," he
added. Trump wrote in an earlier
tweet that Schiff "completely fab‑
Senator Elizabeth Warren,
running for President
Americans to observe it.
"Gandhi's unwavering commitment
to peaceful dissent inspired count‑
less others not just in India but
around the world," Cruz said.
"His life, sacrifices, and legacy con‑
tinue to be a light around the world,
calling attention to the tyranny and
injustice that dictators seek to con‑
duct in darkness. Let us honor him
9
ricated my words (with Zelensky)
and read them to Congress as
though they were said by me."
Schif f ''s spokesperson, Patrick
Boland, confirmed that the
whistleblower had contacted the
Intelligence committee "for guid‑
ance on how to report possible
wrongdoing within the jurisdiction
of the intelligence community,"
according to the Times report. The
spokesperson insisted that Schif f
didn't get the whistleblower com‑
plaint in advance.
House Oversight and Reform
Committee Chairman Elijah
Cummings has also planned a sub‑
poena for the W hite House,
request ing Ukraine‑re lated
records.
T he three committees have
already subpoenaed Secretary of
State Mike Pompeo, and Giuliani,
who the whistleblower complaint
claimed was a central figure in the
administration's dealings with
Ukraine.
Sanders have been splitting the
support of the partyʼs le ft ist
activists. In the RealClearPolitics
average, Biden is at 26% national‑
ly ̶ while Warren and Sanders
added together get 41%.
If Sanders either finds it neces‑
sary to end his bid or continues it
with his heart problems overshad‑
owing his future, even his most
loyal voters will have to look else‑
where – enter Elizabeth Warren.
And the RealClearPolitics average
puts them at 16.7% of the
Democratic electorate.
by continuing to encourage and sup‑
port all of those seeking to be free,"
he said. "As we honor his towering
legacy as a champion of human
rights and democracy, we also draw
inspiration to face our own chal‑
lenges today all around the world,”
Menendez said. Meng said Gandhi
was a monumental civil rights and
spiritual leader who demonstrated
that peaceful protests can bring
change. "We honor his legacy with a
resolution that calls on all to recog‑
nize his important contributions to
the world," she said. "Our own civil
rights heroes, like Dr Martin Luther
King, were influenced by Gandhi's
work and it is critical that we strive
each day to change the world in a
peaceful manner. I urge all
Americans to join me in marking
International Day of Non‑Violence,"
Meng said.
 10 October 5-11, 2019 INDIA NEWS TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Modi proposes 'Einstein Challenge' as tribute to Gandhi

New Delhi: In a tribute to Mahatma
Gandhi on his 150th birth anniver‑
sary, Prime Minister Narendra
Modi has penned an op‑ed piece in
T he New York Times, calling
Gandhi as the "best teacher" and
proposed an "Einstein Challenge".
Enumerating his government's
work in the field of sanitation,
eliminating poverty and renewable
energy, Modi invited thinkers,
entrepreneurs and tech leaders to
be at the forefront of spreading
Gandhi's ideas through innovation,
as part of the "Einstein Challenge".
We know Albert Einstein's
famous words on Gand hi:
"Generations to come will scarce
believe that such a one as this ever
in flesh and blood walked upon this
earth."
"How do we ensure the ideals of
Gandhi are remembered by future
generations? I invite thinkers,
entrepreneurs and tech leaders to
be at the forefront of spreading
Bapu!" In the piece titled, 'Why
India and the world need Gandhi',
he wrote: "In Gandhi, we have the
best teacher to guide us. From unit‑
ing those who believe in humanity
to furthering sustainable develop‑
ment and ensuring economic self‑
reliance, Gandhi offers solutions to
every problem."
"We in India are doing our bit.
India is among the fastest when it
comes to eliminating poverty. Our
sanitation efforts have drawn glob‑
al attention. India is also taking the
lead in harnessing renewable
resources through efforts like the
International Solar Alliance, which
Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on has broug ht together several
his 150th birth anniversary at the Parliament House, in New Delhi. nations to leverage solar energy
(Photo: IANS) for a sustainable future. We want
Gandhi's ideas through innovation. summed up in his favourite hymn, to do even more, with the world
"Let us work shoulder to shoul‑ 'Vaishnava Jana To', which said and for the world."
der to make our world prosperous that a true human is one who feels Referring to the Dandi March, he
and free from hate, violence and the pain of others, removes misery wrote: "...Who else could have cre‑
suffering. That is when we will ful‑ and is never arrogant," Modi said. ated a mass agitation through a
fil Mahatma Gand hi's dream, "The world bows to you, beloved pinch of salt! During colonial rule,
Salt Laws, which placed a new tax
on Indian salt, had become a bur‑
den. Through the Dandi March in
1930, Gandhi challenged the Salt
Laws. A small lump of natural salt
from the Arabian Sea shore led to
the historic civil disobedience
movement."
"There have been many mass
movements in the world, many
strands of the freedom struggle
even in India, but what sets apart
the Gandhian struggle and those
inspired by him is the wide‑scale
public participation. He never held
administrative or elected office. He
was never tempted by power.
"For him, independence was not
an absence of external rule. He saw
a deep link between political inde‑
pendence and personal empower‑
ment. He envisioned a world where
every citizen has dignity and pros‑
perity. W hen the world spoke
about rights, Gandhi emphasized
duties," Modi wrote in the piece.

MP honey‑trap case: Economist Surjit Bhalla named Executive Director for IMF
New Delhi: The Indian government has appointed Monetary Fund for a period of three years from the

Upset Kamal Nath economist Surjit S Bhalla as the executive director of

the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a period of
three years.
date of assumption of the charge of the post or until
further orders whichever is earlier," a government
order said.

shuffles police brass An Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC)

order said that Bhalla would hold the position for
three years from the date of assuming the charge.
"The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has
approved the appointment of Dr Surjit S Bhalla,
Economist, as Executive Director (India), International
The key post of Executive Director at the multilater‑
al agency had fallen vacant after the death of Dr Subir
Gokarn in July this year.
Bhalla was earlier a key member of the
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Economic Advisory
Council.

Going to UN for Kashmir was

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath.
Bhopal: The Madhya Pradesh gov‑
ernment made top level changes in
the police department and reconsti‑
tuted ‑‑ third time in 10 days ‑‑ the
special investigation team (SIT)
probing the honey‑trap scandal.
Rajendra Kumar, the 1985 batch
IPS officer, has been made special
DG (cyber crime) and new chief of
the three‑member SIT. Additional
DGP Milind Kanaskar and Mrs
Ruchivardhan Mishra, senior super‑
intendent of police Indore, will be
the other members of the SIT.
Sanjeev Shami, who had earlier
replaced Srinivas Verma as SIT
chief, has been moved to the police
headquarters as additional DGP
(selection and recruitment) with
additional charge of anti‑Naxal
operations.
Purshottam Sharma, who was in
news for controversial statements
against DGP V.K. Singh, has been
made the director (public prosecu‑
tion).
While 15 IPS officers were trans‑
ferred, four IGPs were promoted to
the rank of Additional DGPs. A post
of officer on special duty (OSD) has
been created to retain Additional
DGP Shailesh Kumar Singh.
Chief Minister Kamal Nath repri‑
manded the top police officers for
their public squabbling over the
honey‑trap case probe. The Chief
Minister said the state had already
earned a bad name due to the
Vyapam scam.
Meanwhile, the police produced
Shweta Vijay Jain and Shweta
Swapnil Jain and Barkha Soni in an
Indore court on Tuesday. The court
remanded them to the police cus‑
tody till October 14.
Aarti Dayal, the other accused,
said Shweta Vijay was the master‑
mind in blackmailing Harbhajan
Singh, the municipal engineer from
Indore who lodged a complaint
against the honey trap racket. Aarti
told the police Shweta Vijay had
asked her to demand Rs 3 crore
from Singh.
blunder: Shah targets Cong
New Delhi: Holding the Congress
party squarely responsible for the
present‑day Kashmir dispute, Home
Minister Amit Shah has slammed the
critics for questioning the Narendra
Modi government's August 5 move
to abrogate Article 370 that granted
special status to Jammu and
Kashmir.
Blaming first Prime Minister
Jawaharlal Nehru for the crisis, Shah
said going to the UN for the Kashmir
issue was a blunder. He said, Article
370 went on for years due to wrong
promotion.
Home Minister Amit Shah
"First of all, going to UN for
Kashmir was a blunder. And second‑ tory has been moulded to hide the raise voice for the children and fami‑
ly, the selection of the charter was truth. "It is because the people writ‑ ly of these 40,000 plus people who
wrong. Instead of choosing charter ing the history were the ones who were killed?"
35, the government should have had created problems in Kashmir", Stressing that Kashmir will return
opted for charter 51," the BJP presi‑ he said, adding: "Kashmir was, is and to normalcy "very soon", he counted
dent said in a packed auditorium. He will always remain an integral part the ills of Article 370 like caste dis‑
was speaking at an event organized of India. We don't need to mention it crimination, prevalent child marriage
by Indraprasth Vishwa Samvad again." and much more.
Kendra here. While he congratulated PM Modi Allaying fears that scrapping the
Elaborating further on his claims, for axing Article 370, he reminded Article would not harm the
Shah said: "Charter 35 made it a con‑ the Congress of the alleged atrocities 'Kashmiriyat (Kashmiri‑ness)' of the
flict between two nations, while char‑ committed under its rule in Kashmir. state, Shah reasoned: "If it is so then,
ter 51 would have helped us put the "At least 41,800 people have been why is Gujarati culture alive without
case of a foreign nation occupying killed by terrorism in Kashmir to 370, why is garba still alive in
our land." date. I ask those people who raise Gujarat, why is Durga Pooja alive in
He also alleged that Kashmir's his‑ questions of human rights... will you West Bengal?"
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
Mahatma Gandhi – The game changer of Indiaʼs history
By Ashok Mahajan
A
lbert Einstein while pay‑
ing tributes to Mahatma
Gandhi said, “Generations
to come will scarce believe that
such a one as this ever in flesh
and blood walked upon this
earth.” People who have had the
opportunity to interact with
Gandhi remember his words –
“Be the change you want to see
in this world.”
When Gandhi spoke to the mil‑
lions of his fellow freedom fight‑
ers in India, he said, “I am asking
you to believe, not in my ability
to make change, but in yours.”
These words stirred up the pas‑
sion to struggle for freedom in
the hearts of the rich and poor
alike throughout the country and
people did not mind bearing the
brutal attacks of the British sol‑
diers. Gandhiʼs vision of freedom
was democracy, which begins not
with the government or with the
political parties or with any one
politician, but within each one of
us.
This is the same belief that
Rotary International has with its
1.2 million members worldwide.
Rotary evolved during the same
period of Indiaʼs freedom move‑
ment as a working and living
center for citizens who wished to
serve the community. Following
Gandhiʼs ideals, leaders of Rotary
during in the 30ʼs and 40ʼs set a
goal to develop the next genera‑
tion of citizens. Rotaryʼs leaders
asked each one of the members
to add their voice and their input
in shaping the organization,
much like the collective wisdom
which went into shaping the
Constitution of India which
imbibed the values of Gandhi.
Gandhi went to several parts of
India making people part of the
freedom movement. He spent
years of listening, learning and
experimenting to design the
most effective way to inspire the
COMMENT
people, empower them to change
their country into a free nation
and to drive out the occupying
forces. The Satyagraha move‑
ment stands out as a powerful
weapon and ultimately this con‑
cept of non‑violence brought
freedom.
Rotary in many ways has been
doing constant research in find‑
ing out what are the best pro‑
grams to suit the needs of the
community in different parts of
the world. The setting up of The
Rotary Foundation proved to be
the ideal way to connect to the
donors and those who needed
help.
Gandhi taught us to put the
needs of others above our own.
October 5-11, 2019
Gandhi said, “In a
gentle way, you can
shake the world.” This
call for peaceful inter‐
action with the people
is the fundamental
philosophy of Rotary
and its peace initiatives
around the world. A
tribute on the 150th
birth anniversary of the
Father of the Nation.
This probably became the motto,
Service Above Self, of Rotary
International. Rotary believes
that people, who are crazy
enough to think they can change
the world, are the ones who do.
These words were inspired by
Gandhi and Rotarians have near‑
ly eradicated polio from the face
of the world.
Gandhi lives through his work
and mission in every village and
city in India and has inspired
many famous world leaders to
adopt his philosophy. Rotary
lives in over 120 countries and is
touching the lives of millions of
people to make this world a bet‑
ter place. Gandhi said, “In a gen‑
tle way, you can shake the
11
world.” This call for peaceful
interaction with the people is the
fundamental philosophy of
Rotary and its Peace initiatives
around the world and the peace
scholars who get trained in the
concept of peace spread the mes‑
sage and help to resolve con‑
flicts.
While celebrating the life of
the great man on his 150th
Anniversary, Rotarians who take
up great challenges in shaping
the community should remember
his words, “First they ignore you,
then they laugh at you, then they
fight you, then you win.”
The writer (www.
ashokmahajan.in) is
Director, Rotary
International (2007‐09);
and Trustee, The Rotary
Foundation (2009‐13).
 12 October 5-11, 2019
Imran claims dismantling militant camps, warns on Kashmir ‘bloodbath’
Special to
The South Asian Times
New York: Pakistani Prime
Minister Imran Khan claims his
country has taken measures to
dismantle all the militant camps,
but New Delhi has not come for‑
ward to hold talks on the Kashmir
issue.
“I feel that the world should real‑
ize this is a serious situation devel‑
oping,” he told a predominantly
Pakistani gathering at the Asia
Society here on September 26.
“This is just the beginning – the
fact is that 8 million people are
under siege for almost 52 days.”
Khan feared “bloodbath” when‑
ever the curfew in the Indian part
of Kashmir was lifted. According
to him, there would be “repercus‑
sions” that could go farther than
Kashmir. The cricketer‑turned‑
politician, who was in town for the
74th UN General Assembly ses‑
sion, focused much of his hour‑
long speech on Kashmir.
“I have spoken to leaders. I have
made them understand,” he noted.
“They might not be moving right
now, but I feel that what the Modi
After UNGA setback,
Khan removes UN official
Pakistanʼs Permanent Representative at the UN, Maleeha Lodhi.
United Nations: Pakistan's
Prime Minister Imran Khan has
abruptly removed his country's
Permanent Representative
Maleeha Lodhi after failing to
make headway in his Kashmir
campaign at the General
Assembly's high‑level meeting.
Pakistani media reported that
she will be replaced by Munir
Akram, who had done a stint as
the permanent representative.
Akram was involved in an
alleged domestic violence inci‑
dent in 2002 just as Pakistan
was taking its place on Security
Council as an elected member
and the US asked his country to
lift his diplomatic immunity so
he could be prosecuted.
But he managed to stay on till
2008. Despite Maleeha Lodhi's
Pak PM Imran Khan at an Asia Society event
with its CEO Josette Sheeran.
government has done is, boxed
itself in by taking this step. I donʼt
think they had really thought
about what they did. What is hap‑
pening there now is a catastro‑
phe.” Despite his claims and poli‑
cies that donʼt discourage militan‑
cy in his country, Imran noted he
has high respect for such leaders
as Gandhi, Mandela and Jinnah.
Though Khan had earlier raised
the possibility of war, he now said
that “we should do everything to
avoid war.”
campaign at the UN and Khan's
intense diplomatic activity, only
three countries, China, Malaysia
and Turkey, joined Pakistan in
raising the Kashmir issue ‑
which meant they did not have
any influence on the other 189
countries in the 193‑member
UN. Lodhi survived a major
snafu in 2017 when she held
up a picture of an injured
Palestinian girl in the General
Assembly claiming that she was
a Kashmiri and the hoax was
exposed. She tweeted after
announcement of her removal,
"I had planned to move on after
UNGA following a successful
visit by the PM." Akram was
Permanent Representative from
2002 to 2008 and has been the
foreign secretary.
SUBCONTINENT
He castigated the “racist ideolo‑
gy” and slammed the notion that
“India is the land of Hindus.”
“Eight million people are under
the o ccupat ion of 900,000
troops,” Khan said, referring to the
people in Kashmir. “In Assam 1.9
million people have now become
stateless.” According to him, the
future of Kashmir should be decid‑
ed by the people there in accor‑
dance with the UN resolutions.
Khan, however, made no mention
of either the Simla Agreement or
Pak invites Manmohan Singh
for Kartarpur inauguration
Islamabad: Pakistan Foreign
Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi
said that Pakistan would invite
former Indian Prime Minister and
senior Cong ress leader
Manmohan Singh for the inaugu‑
ration of the Kartarpur Corridor
on November 9.
Qureshi said the Imran Khan‑led
government has decided to hold
the inauguration ceremony in a
big way. "We are making big
preparations for it," he said.
"We have decided to invite for‑
mer Indian Prime Minister
Abdullah Abdullah claims victory
in Afghan prez race
Afghanistan's Chief Executive
Abdullah Abdullah.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
India hits back at
Imranʼs 'hate speech'
I
ndia has hit back at Pakistan
Prime Minister Imran Khan's
UNGA address, say ing his
speech bordered on crudeness
and while Islamabad has "ven‑
tured to upstream terrorism and
downstream hate speech, New
De lhi was going ahead w ith
mainstreaming development in
Jammu and Kashmir". Using
strong words, Vidisha Maitra,
First Secretary Ministry of
External Af fairs, exercising
India's right of reply to Khan's
speech, said: "Rarely has the
General Assembly witnessed
such misuse, rather abuse, of an
opportunity to reflect." She said
the choice of Khan's words to
attack India, like "pog rom",
"bloodbath", "racial superiority",
"pick up the gun" and "fight to
the end", reflected a "medieval
the Lahore Declaration, both of
which emphasize that issues con‑
Manmohan Singh. He is held in
high esteem and represents the
Sikh community.
"On behalf of the Pakistan gov‑
ernment, I extend our invite to
him. We shall invite him in writing
too," Qureshi said.
The corridor will allow pilgrims
to trave l from the Dera Baba
Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur dis‑
trict to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in
Kartarpur in Pakistan. It will be
thrown open on November 9 to
mark the 550th birth anniversary
celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev.
Kabul: Afg hanistan's Chie f
Execut ive Abdullah Abdullah
claimed victory in the presidential
election even as the of ficial vote
count was still under way.
"We have got the most votes in
the election," Abdullah, President
Ashraf Ghani's main rival, told
reporters in the Afghan capital.
"In the current situation, the
elections will not go to a second
round and we will form a new gov‑
ernment," he said, according to Efe
news. However, the Independent
Election Commission said no can‑
didate had the right to announce
election results or claim victory.
mindset and not a 21st Century
vision". "While Pakistan has ven‑
tured to upstream terrorism and
downstream hate speech there,
India is going ahead with main‑
streaming deve lopment in
Jammu and Kashmir.
"Citizens of India do not need
anyone else to speak on their
behalf, least of all those who
have built an industry of terror‑
ism from the ideology of hate,"
she added.
Maitra added that Khan's
"threat of unleashing nuclear
devastation qualifies as brinks‑
manship, not statesmanship".
"For someone who was once a
cricketer and believed in the gen‑
tleman's game, today's speech
bordered on crudeness of the
variety that is reminiscent of the
guns of Darra Adam Khel."
cerning both countries should be
resolved only bilaterally.
Former Indian PM
Manmohan Singh.
He said there was still a long
process before the poll pane l
would announce the final result,
after assessing all election‑related
fraud and rigging complaints.
T he vot ing to e lect new the
Afghan President was held amid
violence and Taliban threats.
The preliminary results of the
polls will not be known till October
19, with the final count expected
to be announced on November 7.
T his was the fourth t ime
Afghans went to the polls to elect a
President since 2001, when the
US‑led coalition ousted a Taliban
regime.
October 5‐11, 2019 TheSouthAsianTimes.info 13

“AIA Deepavali, the biggest Diwali event in the

Harish world outside India happens right here in New York
Thakkar City. Celebrating the Festival of Lights every year for
President the last three decades has inspired Diwali festivals
Association of Indians galore all across USA, from the White House down
in America‐ NY to your neighborhood community hall.”
 October 5‐11, 2019 TheSouthAsianTimes.info 14

AIA DEEPAVALI
By Parveen Chopra

New York: As Harish Thakkar,

President of the Association of

Lighting up New York

Indians in America (AIA – New
York) got ready to welcome tens
of thousands people to their 32nd
Deepavali festival on October 6 in
NYC, he took time out from the
hectic preparatory activities for
the mega event to give an inter‑ New Attractions
view to The South Asian Times.
As we all know by now, AIAʼs
at AIA Deepavali
flagship event is held on the first festival
Sunday of October when the
8 Vegan Expo: For the first
weather is a bit com fortable for
time, AIA is collaborating with
an outdoors event in South Street
World Vegan Vision for the
Seaport in Manhattan. Deepavali is
Vegan Expo ‑‑ which will com‑
now a New York calendar event
prise Vegan food tasting and
that is a draw for the Indian and
cooking demos. Veganism is a
American communities as well as
healthy, new trend, Harish
tourists.
Thakkar says, that is worth fol‑
AlA Deepavali is aimed to foster
lowing and promoting.
increased understanding and
8 Fashion show: Another first
appreciation of India's rich and
under President Harish
diverse culture. Every year digni‑
Thakkar, a fashion show will
taries, lawmakers and corpora‑
light up the stage. Around 12‑
tions participate in the festivi‑
15 models will sashay down
ties. There are stage shows with
wearing traditional Indian
star performers, corporate booths,
clothes at the show organized
a colorful street fair in the side
by Sarashiva womenʼs clothing
lanes where crowds throng ethnic
boutique of Hicksville.
eats, Indian clothes and trinkets.
8 Naach Inferno: To keep the
The daylong event climaxes in
younger generations of Indian
spectacular live fireworks from a
AIA‑Deepavaliʼs entertainment quotient is kept high, year after year. Americans engaged in Indian
barge on the East River ‑ the 20
culture and heritage, AIA holds
minute show is enjoyed by people Corporate Fair, Shopping Bonanza, this hi‑octane national intercol‑
all over in the five boroughs of Delicious Food stalls, and Raffle legiate dance competition that
New York. For many Indians here prizes including 3 iPads and 2 free will feature 8 groups and is sure
who can't light fireworks at their air tickets to India. Freebies to be a big draw for the youths.
doorstep like they do back home, include free coffee by McDonaldʼs. 8 Dandiya: Bollywood and
this show more than makes up for Thakkar says about 60 stalls classical dances are passe at
that. have been taken, and this time the AIA Deepavali stage, now get
So what is new, you ask Harish variety of food offered will be ready for Dandiya on the main
Thakkar, sitting in Panera munch‑ amazing. stage, the clack‑clacking Gujarat
ing on veggie sandwiches (A fol‑ Talking of the new things he is origin dance that has become a
lower of BAPS Swaminarayan bringing to the table for AIA, rage among all Indian commu‑
Sanstha, he is a strict vegetarian)? Thakkar refers to the AIA nities. Of Gujarati heritage,
He has lots of new attractions, he Deepavali Benefit Gala held early Harish Thakkar should know.
promises. in September where parents of
Harish Thakkar said that the achievers and achieving young‑ The dignitaries Thakkar is
Harish Thakkar (extreme right) enjoying the fireworks show
biggest dhoom will be created this sters were honored too, starting a expecting to Deepavaliʼs main
last year with Consul General Sandeep Chakravorty,
time by Amar Sandhu, ʻAmericaʼs new tradition and giving a new slo‑ stage include Senator Cory Booker,
2017‑18 AIA‑NY President Gobind Munjal and others
very own Urban Desi Star with gan: Family Pride: Spreading the Congresswoman Grace Meng, NYC
Global Hitsʼ. And Sandhu is one of light. In effect saying that family To mark Mahatma Gandhiʼs the Nation on an easel in the main Comptroller Scott Stringer, the
the gigs in the rich entertainment ties are a strength of the Indian 150th Birth Anniversary, AIA will event area, which dignitaries can NYC Police Commissioner, and
package with items such as Yoga community. put up a big cutout of the Father of garland. Continued on next page
Band for the mega show, which
may also feature Bollywood celebs
and Bollywood style dance per‑
formances.
Under new features he has intro‑
duced this time, Thakkar lists
Vegan Expo, a Fashion Show and
Dandiya.
Women can have free mehndi.
For the kids there is face painting
and a free crafts area as well as a
video arcade. A performer on stilts
will keep them amused.
The Ramayan performance of
about 20 minutes is a fixture of
AIA Deepavali. This time there will
also be a Ram Darbar.
Visitors are expected to make a
beeline for the Health kiosk, As President, Harish Thakkar is supported by the AIA‑NY Executive Committee and vast army of members.
 October 5‐11, 2019
As Diwali is intertwined with the story of Lord Rama,
a 20‑minute Ramayan enactment is an AIA Deepavali fixture.
maybe even Mayor Bill de Blasio.
Being a tech entrepreneur him‑
self, Thakkar is also renegotiat‑
ing the big running contracts
with vendors (the biggest being
for supply of tents) to cut costs
and have a healthy budget. (So he
can have cash in hand when
going to his second year as
President!)
The best thing about this Diwali
fair is that admission is free.
Except for the VIP area for about
150 invited guests who are
offered dinner around the time of
the fireworks around 7.15 pm.
For many years, AlA Deepavali
fireworks were sponsored by Air
India, India's national carrier.
Now new players – CheapOair
and Qatar Airways have come
forward to sponsor the fireworks.
Other big sponsors fo Deepavali
include McDonaldʼs, New York
Life, Navika and HAB Bank.
With its pioneering efforts, AIA
has brought Indian culture, food
and dance to the general public
in the tristate area. AIAʼs
Deepavali festival attracts not
only the Indian American com‑
munity but also Americans,
Harish Thakkar has been involved with AIA‑NY for the past 14 years and well‑equipped to stage the
mega show of the Indian community in the tristate area.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
The variety of cuisines and food this time at the
street fair is expected to be amazing.
Chinese and Hispanic. This fulfils
their central motto: ʻCultural
Diversity, Social Harmonyʼ.
AIA‑Deepavali needs no testi‑
monials. Yet, Thakkar points out
that their Deepavali festival being
showcased for the last 32 years
at the same venue, and at the
same time in a year (first Sunday
of October) has become a cata‑
lyst for Diwali's widespread
acknowledgement in the White
House, NY City Hall, Gracie
Mansion, Times Square, govern‑
15
ment agencies, schools, universi‑
ties, public institutions and cor‑
porations. AIA has partnered
with prestigious institutions such
as Rubin Museum, and Museum
of Natural History to hold Diwali
celebrations. It has also organ‑
ized Childrenʼs Deepavali at sev‑
eral libraries in Queens,
Connecticut and Westchester.
For more details please contact
Harish Thakkar at
President@theaiany.org.
HARISH
THAKKAR
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
T
he Association of Indians in
America (AIA) would like to
thank the tristate communi‑
ty for making AlA‑NY chapter's
annual Deepavali festival one of
the most prominent and well‑
known celebrations. It is our
pleasure to have you all there on
October 6 celebrating with us, one
of the most famous Indian festi‑
vals.
People from all over have come
and celebrated Diwali at South St.
Seaport for the past 3 decades,
exhibiting unity and together‑
ness. The event has manifested
into an experience, which not only
the Indian community enjoys but
one that the city's diverse popula‑
tion has come to appreciate.
Diwali is a festival that brings
families together, enlightens souls
and brightens your lives. The
Indian culture is filled with pre‑
cious wisdom and countless
insights that help our world every
day. India's heritage is a tapestry
of many mini‑cultures, religions
and beliefs. AlA mirrors this
essence of India with its diversity.
It is devoted to enhancing the
nation. Therefore, AlA members
have been working tirelessly for
months, this festival is a result of
our great dedication and commit‑
ment to the community. I am
greatly appreciative that you are
with us to celebrate India and
Diwali. The festival of lights
(Diwali) is a manifestation of the
Indian culture that brings the
community together and creates
uniformity, signifies the enlighten‑
ment of hearts, brightens our
smiles, and embodies our compas‑
sion. The festival is symbolic for
light taking over and banishing
any darkness and ignorance.
Diwali is celebrated with joy,
splendor, happiness and enthusi‑
asm by people all over the world.
An average of 100,000 people
come every year to celebrate with
us, hope to see you there! Success
is a team effort, and that includes
my executive community, past
presidents, and sponsors. I'm
thankful to CheapOair and Qatar
airways for continuing to sponsor
fireworks, as well as the other
sponsors, McDonalds, Air lndia,
PepsiCo, New York Life, State bank
of India, India Abroad, The South
Asian Times, News India Times
and DesiTalk, TV Asia, ITV, Jus
Punjabi,Indian Express, and
Indian Panorama, among others...
Diwali has come a long way in
New York City, and has become a
rite of passage. So, to each one of
you, we (AlA) wish you and your
family a very happy, safe, healthy,
and joyous Diwali.
With thanks,
Harish Thakkar
President, AIA ‑ NY Chapter
TheSouthAsianTimes.info AIA DIWALI SPECIAL October 5-11, 2019

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 October 5‐11, 2019
HARISH THAKKAR
Leading to Serve
the Community
Harish Thakkar, seen with wife Anita and daughter Heeta, is Community Outreach officer for BAPS ‑NY.
H
arish Thakkar who is an IT
professional, has been
involved in the service of
the South Asian community for
many years. He is currently the
President of Association of Indians
in America, NY Chapter ‑ which
conducts the Deepavali festival @
South Street Seaport for the tri‑
state area (NY, NJ & CT) besides all
other AIA activities during the
year. Harish is involved with AIA
since last 14 years. He also helps
out with spreading the awareness
of Diwali in New York Public
Schools and has been hosting the
Childrenʼs Diwali celebration at the
Queens Public Libraries for the
last 6 years.
Harish is also a Community
Outreach officer for BAPS
Swaminarayan Sanstha‑ NY and
helps with conducting their annual
Walkathon for the benefit of non‑
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
profit organizations like the
American Cancer Society, Queens
Public Library, Big Brothers Big
Sisters of NYC, etc and helps with
their Health Fair and other BAPS
activities. Harish has also been the
Vice President of Lohana Samaj of
tri‑state, where he did a lot of
Indian community projects.
Currently, he is working on the
project creating a healthy lifestyle
for children to make healthy choic‑
es in the school lunch queue and
as they enter their adult lives.
There are thousands of children in
NYC schools who are vegetarian
and are facing this food restriction
as they have no vegetarian choice.
Eating vegetarian food is a healthy
choice which is a widely known
fact.
For his leading positions in com‑
munity affairs and service, he has
earned many laurels from
A proud
Indian, Harish
Thakkar is of
Gujarati
heritage and
admires the
transformative
work Prime
Minister
Narendra Modi
has been
doing for the
motherland.
17
Harish Thakkar taking oath of office as AIA ‑ NY President from
Deputy Consul General of India in New York Shatrughna Sinha
at the consulate in April this year.
American and Indian American
organizations. To name a couple,
New York City Comptroller Scott Stringer honored Harish Thakkar at
Harish Thakkar was presented a
the Asian American and Pacific Islander event in June 2017.
proclamation commending his
community work by the New York
City Council at City Hall in
November 2016 at their annual
Diwali celebration in the presence
of lawmakers. Next year, he was
honored by New York City
Comptroller Scott Stringer at the
Asian American and Pacific
Islander event in June 2017.
Harish Thakkar lives in New
Hyde Park, Long Island, with his
family. Anita Thakkar has been
helping him organize Diwali at
public schools and their very tal‑
ented daughter Heeta Thakkar is
in the 8th grade.
Harish is of Gujarati heritage, but
had lived in Pune before coming to
the US about 20 years ago to study Council Member Barry Grodenchik presented a proclamation to
at Stony Brook university. Harish Thakkar at the City Hall Diwali event in November 2016.
At the India
Day Parade
in NYC in
2015, seen
with Grand
Marshal actor
Arjun Rampal
and star
cricketer
Virendra
Sehwag.
 October 5‐11, 2019 TheSouthAsianTimes.info 18

AIA honored 5 high caliber

individuals at Deepavali gala
Woodbury, NY: The Association
of Indians in America (AIA) held
its Annual Benefit Gala on
September 7 here to prepare for
its flagship 32nd Deepavali festi‑
val slated for October 6 at South
Street Seaport in Manhattan.
Supporters came from Long
Island, Manhattan, Queens and
Westchester area to the classy
Crest Hollow Country Club.
Attendees included Deputy
Consul General of India,
Shatrughna Sinha, past presi‑
dents of AIA, and community
leaders.
President Harish Thakkar high‑
lighted AIA‑NY chapterʼs
Deepavali festival that attracts
Kanubhai Patel, Chairman of Amneal Pharmaceuticals India,
thousands ‑‑ including Indians, Smt Chanchal Devi Shah, mother of CEO of Navika Group Naveen
was honored by AIA President Harish Thakkar. Kanubhai was
Americans, Chinese and Hispanic Shah (standing behind her), was honored with Family Pride award.
accompanied by his wife and son Chintu Patel,
‑‑ and culminates in a spectacular Presenting the plaque is Dr Samin Sharma.
and introduced by Kamlesh Mehta.
fireworks show. With its pioneer‑
ing efforts, AIA has brought
Indian culture, food and dance to
the general public in the tristate
area.
Honorees of the evening were
high caliber individuals. Kamlesh
Mehta, Chairman of The South
Asian Times, introduced
Kanubhai Patel, Chairman of
Amneal Pharmaceuticals India
Pvt. Ltd., who was honored as a
great entrepreneur and whose
sons Chintu and Chirag Patel
have turned Amneal in USA into
the fifth largest generics compa‑
ny. Dr Samin Sharma, Chair of
AIA Board, introduced honoree
Dr Annapoorna Kini, professor of Deputy Consul General of India Shatrughna Sinha honoring Deputy Consul General of India Shatrughna Sinha honoring
cardiology, Mount Sinai school of Dr Annapoorna Kini Prof. of cardiology, Mount Sinai school Dr. Tarun Wasil, who was introduced by Dr Sunil Mehra,
Medicine. She is very well of Medicine, New York a professional colleague.
accomplished Interventional car‑ was a new generation profession‑
diologist and runs the safest and al ‑ Vaishali Deshmukh, Doctor of
busiest cardiac cath lab in the Pharmacy, who has worked at
country. CVS for last 20 years in high
Third honoree Dr Tarun Wasil, positions. This year CVS picked
an eminent Hematologist & her for Paragon Award, one of
Oncologist was introduced by Dr only six in the whole USA among
Sunil Mehra, a professional col‑ 10K Pharmacists and the only
league. Dr Wasil greatly is one in Northeast USA. She is
admired by his patients, nurses greatly admired by her col‑
and colleagues for his critical leagues, coworkers at all levels
knowledge, expertise, simplicity and managerial staff.
and sincerity in his practice of The evening program started
Medicine. He is affiliated to with Thali dance by young
Northwell system and continues dancer, Dr. Neela Zareen. It was
to serve the community. very much liked by the audience.
Smt Chanchal Devi Shah, moth‑ including of Deputy CG, Mr.
er of Naveen Shah, CEO of Navika Shatrughna Sinha.
Group, was honored with Family The program was supported by
Pride award on behalf of the the benefactor Dr Nirmal and
Shah family for guidance and Tina Matoo, Patrons Asmita and
nurturing the entire family. She Arun Bhatia, Dr Neeta and
was joined by other golden ladies Pramod Jain, Kanak and Prabha Vaishali Deshmukh holds the plaque of honor. To her right are her mother Gitanjali Anand and father
for the photo op. Also honored Golia, and Vimal and Divya Goyal. Dr. Satish Anand. Also seen in the picture are her husband Amit Deshmukh, and other members of the family.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info AIA DIWALI SPECIAL October 5-11, 2019
 October 5‐11, 2019 TheSouthAsianTimes.info 20

Thakkar couple take

Diwali to schoolkids
Believing in ‘catch them young’, Anita and Harish Thakkar have been spreading
the awareness of Diwali in New York Public Schools by hosting the Children’s
Diwali celebrations at Queens Public Libraries for the last many years.
Anita Thakkar leading the Diwali celebration at a school.

Children’s Diwali at Queens

Public Library, Bellerose
The celebration was sponsored by AIA, organized by Anita Thakkar
and presided by Ranju Batra in Nov 2011

T
he room was decorated and
the kids had a wonderful time.
It was quite a success with the
room completely packed with more
than 63 kids, all enjoying the Diwali
program which started with the
lighting of Diyas. Many small kids
came forward to talk what they
knew about Diwali and the story of
Lord Ram and how Diwali came to be
celebrated.
AIA‑NY Chair Ranju Batra
explained the importance of Diwali
festival. This was followed by Ganesh
stuti and Devistuti dance. T he
Bollywood dances were performed,
followed by Akshay Parmar (8 yrs)
playing the Mrudanga/dhol and
Brandon performing martial arts.
After that the kids had a chance to
paint paper diyas and small clay
diyas with dif ferent colors, which
they took home. Kids kept pouring in
as the program continued.
AIA also gave out packets of
snacks and gifts to all kids. The par‑
ents were all equally happy and
asked to have this Diwali celebration
continue every year. Anita Thakkar
encouraged all kids to perform and
participate in next Diwali celebration
in larger numbers to make it bigger
and better.
This event was presided by Ranju
Batra (AIA President), Nina Sahani
(AIA Childrenʼs Activity coordinator),
Indu Gajwani (AIA Cultural Chair)
and Harish Thakkar (then AIA Vice
President).

AIA-NY made Diwali stamp dream come true

T
he US Postal Service com‑
memorated the joyous
Hindu festival of Diwali by
dedicat ing the Diwali Forever
stamp on October 5, 2016.
The first‑day‑of‑issue dedication
ceremony took place at the
Consulate General of India in New
York. An est imated 100,000
stamps got pre‑sold at the outset
through the efforts of the commu‑
nity, making it the highest selling
USPS stamp.
"The Postal Service is honored to
issue this Forever stamp that cele‑
brates the Festival of Diwali," said
Pritha Mehra, USPS Vice President,
Mail Entry and Payment
Technolog y. "We hope these
stamps will light up millions of
cards and letters as they make
their journey through the mail‑
stream."
It was the culmination of long
held dream of many in the Indian
community since other major reli‑
gious and cultural holidays such as
Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah
and Eid already had commemora‑
tive stamps. T he Diwali stamp
project was spearheaded by Ranju
Batra starting with her AlA‑NY
President term in 2011‑12. She
continued to toil on for years,
receiving help from many quarters.
The project succeeded after rounds
of advocacy, including thousands
of petition signatures, meetings
with Prime Minister Narendra
Modi, appeals to President Obama,
and multiple congressional resolu‑
tions.
"While this journey may have
taken years, the Postal Service
has issued a Diwali stamp that
will continue to resonate forever,"
said Ranju Batra at the dedication
ceremony. "Now for the first time
there is a stamp that celebrates
Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists
as Americans forever. Our heartfelt
thanks to all those who have sup‑
ported this stamp."
The Diwali stamp design is a pho‑
tograph featuring a traditional
diya. Perhaps inspired by the USPS
Diwali stamp, Canada Post also
issued a Diwali stamp in 2017 The Diwali stamp project was spearheaded by Ranju Batra (extreme
and United Nations last year to right) during her AIA‑NY president term in 2011‑12. She is seen here at
coincide with the festival of lights. the function to release the stamp at Indian consulate in October 2016.
 October 5‐11, 2019
INDIAN HERITAGE, AMERICAN COMMITMENT
AIA MISSION
The Association of Indians in America
(AIA) is the oldest national association of
Asian Indians in America.
AIA is the grassroots national organiza‑
tion of Asian immigrants in United States,
fostered on the democratic principle of
“one member one vote”. With chapters
and membership spread across America,
AIA represents the hopes and aspirations
of those immigrants who are united by
their common bond of Indian Heritage
and American Commitment.
AIA OBJECTIVES
1. To promote the welfare of Asian
Indians in the US and to address issues of
integration with mainstream America.
2. To promote the image of India in the
US by showing its rich culture and tradi‑
tions through various events.
3. To encourage and facilitate the partic‑
ipation of AIA members and others in the
development and progress of India
through charitable, cultural and educa‑
tional activities and to facilitate communi‑
cation and co‑operation among the people
of Indian Heritage worldwide.
HISTORICAL MILESTONES
OF AIA
1967 – Founded
It was founded on August 20, 1967 after
the United States Congress passed the
Immigration Act during 1965‑66, repeal‑
ing the Asian Exclusion Act of 1917. The
Constitution was adopted in 1970. AlA
obtains IRS exempt status in 1973.
1973 ‑ Honor Banquets started to
honor both distinguished Americans and
Asian Indians who have fostered better
understanding between the people of US
and India. Honorees have included 4
Nobel Laureates.
1993 – Sushruta and Charaka Awards
Instituted in 1993 to recognize and
honor people of Indian origin in the field
of Medicine and Health Care.
2003 – White House celebrates Diwali
AIA facilitates the first celebration of
Diwali at the White House fort eh first
time. The tradition has continued by three
Honor Banquets were started in 1973 to honor both distinguished Americans and Asian
Indians who have fostered better understanding between the people of US and India.
Honorees included famous composer Zubin Mehta in 1979 and 4 Nobel Laureates.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info 21
Presidents – George W. Bush, Barack tively addressing the issues of discrim‑ 8 Combating AIDS: In 2005, Project
Obama and Donald Trump. ination in recognition and licensing of India partnered with Gujarat AIDS and
Ananya book: Published to celebrate the Indian physicians. Awareness and Prevention (GAP), an
50th anniversary of India's independence, 8 Voter registration drives. NGO based in Ahmedabad to help peo‑
this collection of 40 essays by scholars ple affected with HIV/AIDS in parts of
from both East and West provides an
CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES Gujarat. A long‑time commitment, AIA
enriching glimpse of Indian history, cul‑ 8 Project India: During years 1979‑ has channeled over $15 million worth
ture, and society over six millennia. 2000, Project India channeled over $ of direct assistance and equipment to
15 million of funds ‑ in cash and in projects and relief work in India.
NYC CHAPTER HIGHLIGHTS kind for relief work for victims of com‑ 8 Patient Care: AIA and Brooklyn
1987: Annual Deepavali Festival in NYC munal riots in 184, after Bhopal gas Hospital have been sponsoring visits
started at South Street Seaport, which is tragedy the same year, etc. Also, of medical experts from Brooklyn
enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of peo‑ helped raise funds to help the victims Medical Center and have organized
ple of tristate area. of the earthquake in Maharashtra in several "AIDS Patients Clinical
2005 – New York City recognizes 1993. Examination Camps".
Diwali as an official Holiday
The first White
So, alternate street parking in the city is
House Diwali
suspended.
was celebrated
2016– Official USPS Diwali stamp
at the behest
unveiled of AIA in 2003
Resolution introduced in the House of
when George
Representatives advising USPS to issue a W. Bush was
stamp commemorating Diwali. President. On
ACTIVISM the occasion,
1,000 com‑
8 Reclassification of Immigrants from memorative
South Asian Countries as Asians silver coins
Pacific American. were issued.
8 Minority Status to Asian Indian
Immigrants in 1970ʼs.
8 Separate enumeration of Asian Indians
AIA - NY HAS BEEN GROWING WITH THE
for the first time in US census as an
independent category in 1980.
EFFORTS OF ALL THE PAST PRESIDENTS
8 Representation before Congressional
committees to testify for family reuni‑
fication provision in the immigration
bill.
8 Political awareness program urging
Indians to unite into two groups.
(Indians for Democrats and Indians for
Republicans.)
8 Forcing Senator Daniel Patrick
Moynihan walk back his derogatory
remarks about India made in a
Playboy interview in 1977 after then
AIA President Manoranjan Dutta wrote
to the New York Democrat.
8 Represented at federal, state and local
levels of governments, in cases of bias
or discrimination against the Asian
Indians.
8 Represented on Foreign Medical
Graduates Committee of AMA, effec‑
 October 5‐11, 2019
Project India-Philanthropic arm of AIA
I
n October of 1978, AIAʼs
Council of Asian Indian Social
Scientists was constituted to
support social causes in India, with
focus on public health, through the
use of medical knowledge and tech‑
nology. During years 1979‑2000,
Project India channeled over $ 15
million of funds ‑ in cash and in
kind. The funds have helped vari‑
ous Relief Projects, such as:
8 Bhopal gas tragedy
8 Communal riots in Delhi
8 Refugee assistance in
Bangladesh and Uganda
8 Help to flood victims in
Bengal
8 Educational Grants to
Educational Institutions
2005: Gujarat Project
A 2002 report by the UN predict‑
ed 20 million to 25 million AIDS
cases in India by 2010 ‑ more than
any other country in the world.
Alarmed, in late 2005, AIA made
a commitment to support a
renowned NGO called Gujarat AIDS
Vignettes from AIA
Deepavali 2018
TheSouthAsianTimes.info 22
Asmita Bhatia and Divya Shah have nurtured Project
India from the beginning.
Awareness and Prevention (GAP), Health (PATH) Center. It has
based in Ahmedabad, founded in received state and national recog‑
1989 and recognized as the pio‑ nition for its pioneering work in
neer organization in the field of comprehensive HIV/AIDS care.
HIV/AIDS. GAP is a lead NGO ‑ a Thanks to help from many
resource center for information, friends of the Organization and
advocacy and counseling. believers of the cause, AIA has
In 2006, AIA proudly partnered expanded the Project activities to
with The Brooklyn Hospital Center reach 20 villages within 100 km of
(TBHC), well known for its Ahmedabad, where there is no
Programs for AIDS Treatment and medical assistance. AIAʼs Project
India has contributed over
$100,000 to GAP Organization, to
fully fund the Rural Outreach
Program, focused on prevention of
HIV/AIDS through education and
awareness. Program has touched
lives of over 600 patients, who
would not survive without AIAʼs
financial contribution, work of the
GAP volunteers, assisted by the
Medical experts from the Brooklyn
Hospital.
Project India, in partnership with
GAP (Gujarat Aids Awareness and
Prevention Unit) holds an impor‑
tant place in the area of reproduc‑
tive/sexual health and HIV/AIDS,
with its specific programs, quality
of service, advocacy for greater
gender equality, access to care,
reduce stigma and build on the
local community partnership.
Project India serves the needs of
over 2,000 families across 80 vil‑
lages along the border of Gujarat
and Rajasthan. We are pleased that
information and counseling has
empowered girls and young
AIA Deepavali
2019 Sponsors
women to take control of their own
health, thereby improving the fami‑
lyʼs wellbeing.
Mission: Bringing comprehensive
healthcare to rural/tribal villages,
with focus on women and children.
Goal: Make women aware of their
rights & responsibilities for their
reproductive and sexual health;
Empower women through educa‑
tion, counseling and quality of
maternity care; Teach adolescents
to become responsible adults, in
areas of hygiene, nutrition, sexual
behavior and reproductive health.
Aim is to achieve: 0% new infec‑
tion of HIV; 0% Stigma and
Discrimination, and 100% of
improved quality of life.
Medical Consultation Camps:
Since 2006, Annual trip by the
physicians from the Brooklyn
Hospital Center. This was for early
diagnosis, holistic treatment and
continued care. Overall 39 camps
were held with an attendance of
1,255 including 400 women and
about 500 boys and girls.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info AIA DIWALI SPECIAL October 5-11, 2019
TheSouthAsianTimes.info AIA DIWALI SPECIAL October 5-11, 2019

International
In
nternational
l Ahimsa Foundation
Fou
undation Inc.
.
Wishes
Wishe
es a H
Happy
appy Diwali
Diwali to
to All
All
&

Heartiest
Heartiest Congratulations
Congratulations to
to AIA
AIA President
President Mr. Harish
Mr. H Thakkar
arish T hakkar and His
and H Team
is T eam

Dr.
Dr. Neeta
Neeta Jain
Jain Ph.
Ph. D.
D.

President & Founder

President Founder of
of IAF
IAF

D emocr
c atic D
Democratic istrictt Leader
District Leader
er NYS
NYS Assembly
Assembly D istrictt 25
District 25 Part
Part B Queens
Queens

Em ail: iiafnewyorkusa@gmail.com
Email: afnewyoorkuusa@gmail.com fb
fb:: IAFNYUSA
IAFNYUSA
TheSouthAsianTimes.info SHANTI FUND October 5-11, 2019 25

Shanti Fund honors 4

By Parveen Chopra

Hauppauge, NY: For 25 years,

Long Island based Shanti Fund
has been quietly promoting

at Gandhi 150 celebration

Mahatma Gandhiʼs ideals of peace
and non‑violence, but recently it
came into the limelight. None
other than Prime Minister
Narendra Modi remotely inaugu‑
rated Gandhi Peace Garden at a
UN event on September 24 in
Inauguration of Gandhi Peace Garden in Long Island is highlighted
New York. A unique way to
remember the Mahatma on his
150th birth anniversary, the
Garden is a collaboration of
Shanti Fund, the Indian Consulate
in New York, and SUNY Old
Westbury, which has dedicated a
50‑acre plot of land on its cam‑
pus. 150 trees from all 50 US
states have been planted and
have been adopted by members
of the community.
A brief video about the Gandhi
Peace Garden was shown as
Shanti Fund celebrated Gandhi
150 on October 2 at the Suffolk
County Executive Building in
Hauppauge, in its foyer where a
statue of the Mahatma stands.
In attendance were over 150
guests including NYS Singing Happy Birthday to Gandhi ji (from left) Soh Young Lee, Arvind Vora, Consul General Sandeep Ila Vora welcoming Consul
Assemblyman Andrew Raia, Town Chakravorty, Rajesh Jain, Dr. Kirit Gosalia, Bakul Matalia (on the mike), Kamlesh Mehta, General Sandeep Chakravorty
Dr Kishore Kuncham and NYS Assemblyman Andrew Raia. with khadi garland.
of Huntington Supervisor Chad
Lupinacci, Consul General of India
Amb. Sandeep Chakravorty as
Chief Guest and many prominent
members of the Indian communi‑
ty.
Gandhiʼs favorite bhajans
ʻVaishanav jan tau tene kahiye je
pir parai jane reʼ and ʻRaghupati
Raghav Raja Ramʼ were sung by
Indian and Korean singers. Ms.
Soh Young Lee, Founder of
Multicultural Council of NY, with
pianist Ann Zalkind and tenor
Kunsu Kim performed several
songs. Goodman Youth Band
under the leadership of Mr. Justin
Jin enlivened the evening with
“You Are My Sunshine”,
“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” A founder of Shanti Fund, Surinder Rametra,
Dr. Neelam Bhalodkar presenting Shanti Shanti Fundʼs Bakul Matalia presenting the
and “Beautiful Sunday” numbers. felicitating honoree Kamlesh Mehta by
Fund plaque to honor Dr. Kirit Gosalia. MAHATMA book to honoree Rajesh Jain.
Life and message of Mahatma presenting him MAHATMA book.
Gandhi was shared by the schol‑ non‑possessiveness, and multi‑ because for him truth was some‑ the solutions to humanityʼs prob‑ watchign Richard Attenboroughʼs
ars and honorees at the event. plicity of points of view, which are thing evolving and to be experi‑ lems." He feels that the world will multi‑Academy award winning
The four men honored with the main pillars of Jain philoso‑ mented with even if he appeared be much better off if only each film ʻGandhiʼ can be a good intro‑
Mahatma Gandhi Peace & Non‑ phy. He imbibed these principles inconsistent at times. one of us can live even one day duction. Ambassador Sandeep
Violence Award for their contri‑ after he came in contact with Jain referred to Prime Minister emulating the Mahatmaʼs day. He Chakravorty, who has a very
butions to community while Shrimad Rajchandra, a saintly Narendra Modiʼs op‑ed on Oct 2 also suggested to those not famil‑
maintaining the Gandhian philos‑ in The New York Times, which iar with this apostle of peace, that
Continued on page 26
Jain scholar.
ophy and ethics were: Honoree Dr Kishore Kuncham, said that Mahatma Gandhi "had
Dr. Kirit Gosalia of Phoenix, educationist, in his speech said the unique ability to become a
Rajesh Jain of Kolkata, Dr. Kishore that Gandhi not only won India bridge between some of the great‑
Kuncham, Superintendent of freedom through nonviolent est contradictions in human soci‑
Freeport Public Schools, NY, and means, but also his example has ety." Needless to say, he could be
Publisher of The South Asian influenced multitudes and led to a bridge to diversity and differ‑
Times Kamlesh C. Mehta. other successful social changes ences.
Honoree Dr. Kirit Gosalia, a using the means of non‑violence. Kamlesh Mehta was recognized
retired medical doctor and Jain Among Gandhiʼs many admirers by Shanti Fund for high ethics in
scholar, explained the secret how and followers have been Albert his various publications. He
Mohandas Karamchand became Einstein, Martin Luther King Jr., served local Government as
Mahatma Gandhi and was suc‑ Nelson Mandela, and the Dalai Director of Nassau County Office
cessful in organizing the vast Lama. of Business and Economic
country of India for civil disobedi‑ Honoree Rajesh Jain, who is an Development for 5 years and has
ence movements with peaceful interfaith activist, international been the Rotary International
means against the might of the speaker and corporate trainer, District Governor 2015‑16. In his
British empire. said that Gandhiʼs autobiography ex tempore speech, Mehta said,
This is because Gandhi came to is titled ʻMy Experiments with "Google may have all the answers
live the principles of non‑violence, Truthʼ, not my truth or THE Truth, but Gandhiji's messages has all A view of the audience with Gandhi Photo Exhibit in the background.
 26 October 5-11, 2019
Congratulating honoree Kamlesh Mehta (3rd from right) are (from left) Swami Param Anand, Rajesh Jain,
Nimmi Mehta, Jack Poola, Ashok Vyas, Sharda ji and Haridas ji Kotahwala.
Continued from page 25
simple yet lucid style of speak‑
ing in public, in his brief
address called Mahatma
Gandhi the worldʼs first envi‑
ronmentalist, who advised that
we should take only as much
from the earth as we can give
back. The ambassador warned
that humanity may be digging
its own grave by polluting air
and water and earth. But he
also said that homo sapiens are
the only species who can think
of their grandchildren. So, for
our grandchildrenʼs sake we
should mend our ways. With
that he mentioned the steps in
the right direction taken by the
Modi government such as ban
on single plastic use and water
conservation.
Shanti Fund founder Arvind
Vora conducted the eveningʼs
program effortlessly, alternat‑
ing speeches with songs by the
Korean groups.
Shanti Fund is a not for profit
volunteer‑run organization
SHANTI FUND TheSouthAsianTimes.info
CG Sandeep Chakravorty released a Shanti
Fund publication, "Handbook of India's 1951
Gandhi Post Cards" by Maulik Thakkar.
dedicated to promoting
Mahatma Gandhi's ideals of
peace and non‑violence
through education. In exis‑ Dr. Kusum
tence for over 25 years, it is Sinha, Supt.
the only such organization in of Garden
the State of New York if not the City Schools,
entire North America. presenting
Shanti Fund
Mr Vora told The South Asian
plaque to
Times that they had five major
honoree Dr.
events in four days leading to Kishore
Gandhiʼs 150th birth anniver‑ Kuncham.
sary, and he will share details
of those with the readers of
this paper in the next issue.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info AIA DIWALI SPECIAL October 5-11, 2019
TheSouthAsianTimes.info AIA DIWALI SPECIAL October 5-11, 2019
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
Khashoggi murder happened ‘Let me take a selfie first’:
'under my watch': MBS El Salvador president before
Riyadh: Breaking his silence for the first
time over the murder of Saudi journalist
Jamal Khashogg i, Crown Prince
Mohammed Bin Salman has said that he
bears responsibility for the killing
because it "happened under his watch".
"It happened under my watch. I get all
the responsibility, because it happened
under my watch," the Crown Prince, also
known as MBS, told American public
broadcaster PBS, according to a preview
of a documentary to be aired on October
1, ahead of the first anniversary of the
journalist's death.
The Crown Prince, however, reiterated
that the incident happened without his
knowledge, Anadolu news agency report‑
ed citing the broadcaster.
The documentary, "The Crown Prince of
Saudi Arabia", examines the Saudi leader's
rise, his rule and ties to the events sur‑
rounding Khashoggi's murder.
Khashoggi ‑‑ a supporter‑turned‑critic of
the Crown Prince and a Washington Post
columnist ‑‑ was killed and reportedly dis‑
membered in October 2018 by a team of
15 agents sent from Riyadh. His body has
not been found till now.
He was last seen entering the Saudi con‑
sulate in Istanbul on October 2, 2018 to
obtain papers he needed to marry his
Turkish fiancee. His mysterious death
piled scrutiny on Saudi Arabia, which
released conflicting information regard‑
ing his disappearance in the aftermath.
Saudi authorities have since blamed a
"rogue" operation for his murder and put
11 men on trial. The Central Intelligence
Johnson denies wrongdoing over
US businesswoman link
London: UK Prime Minister Boris
Johnson said that there was "no
interest to declare" regarding links
with US businesswoman Jennifer
Arcuri, who has been alleged to
receive favorable treatment due to
her friendship with the former
when he was the Mayor of London.
The allegations, first reported in
the Sunday Times on September
22, have claimed that Arcuri joined
trade missions led by Johnson
when he was the Mayor and that
her company received several
thousand pounds in sponsorship
grants.
Asked during a BBC show if he
had declared any interest, Johnson
said "there was no interest to
declare", adding: "I was proud of
every thing I did as Mayor of Johnson's reaction comes after it
London." was revealed that Johnson was
He also attacked the incumbent referred by the Greater London
London Mayor Sadiq Khan, saying Authority (GLA) to the police
the Labour politician "could possi‑ watchdog, the Independent Office
bly spend more time investing in for Police Conduct (IOPC) ‑‑ whose
police officers than he is investing job is to oversee the conduct of the
in press officers and peddling this Mayor and other members of the
kind of stuff". GLA.
INTERNATIONAL October 5-11, 2019 29
his maiden UN speech
E
l Salvador President Nayib
Bukele surprised attendees
of the United Nat ions
General Assembly (UNGA) by
clicking a selfie before his maiden
speech.
“If youʼll just bear with me a sec‑
ond,” he said, pulling out a phone,
lifting it up to his grinning face
and snapping a photo, which he
later posted on Twitter to his 1.1
million followers, reported South
China Morning Post.
Saudi Crown Prince “Believe me, many more people
Mohammed Bin Salman. will see that selfie when I share it
than will listen to this speech ‑ I
Agency (CIA) and some Western govern‑
hope I took a goo d one,” El
ments said the Crown Prince ordered it,
Salvador President Nayib Bukele
but Saudi of ficials said that he had no
said.
role.
Quipping that the annual sum‑
Asked by a correspondent from PBS'
mit of the worldʼs leaders could be
Frontline programme that how the killing
done by video conference, he
could take place without MBS knowing
added, “A couple of images on El Salvador President Nayib Bukele
about it, the Crown Prince said: "We have
Instagram can have more impact was sworn into office in June.
20 million people. We have 3 million gov‑
than any speech delivered in this
ernment employees." partner and an ally, but also a friend,”
assembly.”
"And they can take one of your planes?" Bukele told reporters after that meeting.
He was sworn into office in June in the
the correspondent asked the Crown “Weʼre hoping that this meeting will
small Central American country of 6.6
Prince, referring to the 15‑person team only strengthen our relationship even
million people, tasked w ith turning
said to have been behind Khashoggi's more, and I think it will because, you
around grinding poverty and rampant
killing and dismemberment that flew in know, President Trump is very nice and
gang violence that are sending thousands
and out of Istanbul on jets owned by the cool, and Iʼm nice and cool, too. We both
fleeing to the United States.
Saudi government. "I have officials, minis‑ use Twitter a lot, so, you know, weʼll get
The former mayor of the capital, San
ters to follow things, and they're responsi‑ along,” he had told reporters. (Hindustan
Salvador, is a prolific user of social media.
ble. They have the authority to do that," Times)
“For us, the United States is not only a
the Crown Prince replied.
No clarity about Brexit:
European Commission VP
Riga: Only a month remains Dombrovskis said in an inter‑
until October 31, the date set view with Latvian public TV.
by British Prime Minister Boris H e n o t ed t h a t a l t h o u g h
Johnson for his country to Johnson does not want to ask
leave the European Union, but the EU to delay Brexit, the par‑
it is not clear yet how and liament can force him to do it,
when Brexit will happen, Xinhua reported.
European Commission Vice H e e m ph a s i s ed t h a t " o n e
President for the Euro and thing is clear ‑‑ Brexit without
Social Dialogue Va l d i s a deal will be a negative sce‑
Dombrovskis said. nario first of all for Britain but
"Just one month is left, but also for the EU, therefore we
PM Boris Johnson says he is proud of everything there really is still no clarity," need to work to avoid it."
he did as Mayor of London.
businesswoman, the BBC reported. not of ficially qualifying for them
The reason for IOPC's involv‑ Arcuri, a technology entrepreneur, as a delegate.
ment was because the role of the is be lieved to have moved to The Sunday Times reported that
Mayor of London is also London's London seven years ago, when one of her businesses received
police and crime commissioner. Johnson was Mayor. 10,000 pounds and 1,500 pounds
In Johnson's defense, Health She joined a number of trade in sponsorship money from a may‑
Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky missions led by him while in office, oral organization, as well as a
News that the Prime Minister did and it is understood she attended 15,000 pounds government grant
not have questions to answer events on two of these trips ‑ to for foreign entrepreneurs to build
regarding alleged links with the US New York and Tel Aviv ‑ despite businesses in Britain.
 30 October 5-11, 2019
In NY, PM Modi made clean case
for investments in India
By Suchitra Srinivas
New York: Prime Minister
Narendra Modi made a clean
case for investments at the Third
Annual Bloomberg Global
Business Forum (GBF) held on 24
September at The Plaza hotel in
Manhattan. Addressing the whoʼs
who of business leaders, Modi
asserted that Indiaʼs thirst for
g rowth fue led by the rig ht
ecosystems is a huge promise for
the investors.
Delivering the keynote address
at the business forum hosted by
former NYC Mayor Michael R.
Bloomberg, Modi argued that it
was the right time for global
business leaders to turn their
attention to India as a driver for
growth and stability. Well assist‑
ed by progressive reforms, the
Indian stage is all set to welcome
the business acumen of the
world to achieve its target of
becoming a $5 trillion economy,
he said, adding that the huge
population was expected to fuel
the multiplication of every dollar
invested.
“Your desires and our dreams
match. Your technology and our
talent can change the world.
Your scale and our skill can
speed up g lobal economic
growth... If there is any gap, I will
act as a bridge,” was the prime
ministerʼs promise.
After delivering the keynote
India's Q1 current account
deficit narrows to $14.3 billion
Mumbai: Lower crude oil prices,
along with higher earnings from
invisible trade such as services,
aided in narrowing India's current
account deficit to $14.3 billion in
Q1 of 2019‑20.
The Reserve Bank of India's data
on India's Balance of Payments
(BoP) showed that CAD narrowed
from $15.8 billion (2.3 per cent of
GDP) in Q1 of 2018‑19 but was
higher than $4.6 billion (0.7 per
cent of GDP) in the preceding
quarter.
"The CAD contracted on a year‑
on‑year (y‑o‑y) basis, primarily on
account of hig her invisible
receipts at $31.9 billion as com‑
pared with $29.9 billion a year
ago," the RBI said in its statement
on developments in India's Q1
BoP.
"Net services receipts increased
Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the third Annual Bloomberg
Global Business Forum (GBF) in New York.
address, the Prime Minister had
an open conversat ion w ith
Bloomberg in front of global
investor audience. He cited
Indiaʼs commitment for clean
energy: growth cannot be at the
cost of nature and India respects
and reflects this thought in its
growth policies. Global warming
can be addressed we ll w ith
human behavior changes rather
than through policies alone, he
said.
Addressing questions raised by
Bloomberg, the UN Secretary‑
Generalʼs Special Envoy for
Climate Action, Modi said India
targets 450 GW from the renew‑
able energy sources and policies
by 7.3 per cent on a y‑o‑y basis,
mainly on the back of a rise in net
earnings from travel, financial
services and telecommunications,
computer and information servic‑
es," the statement said.
Similarly, remittances grew by
BUSINESS
and incentives and mentioned
Indiaʼs water resource manage‑
ment ef forts in the form of Jal
Jeevan mission. As well as ban on
single use plastic from Oct 2.
Being the worldʼs third largest
coal reserve, the countryʼs
reliance on the energy from coal
cannot be wiped out but India is
looking at changing its mining
practices to make them environ‑
ment friendly. Modi mentioned
the huge infrastructure needs to
build new airports, roads, houses,
hospitals, that calls for massive
investments.
Modi also pointed that India
was rising in global FDI rankings
at a time when FDI is falling else‑
6.2 per cent to $19.9 billion from
their level during a year ago peri‑
od.
According to the data, there was
an accretion of $14 billion in for‑
eign exchange reserves (on BoP
basis) during the period under
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
Innovations will fuel India
to become $5 tn economy
Chennai: Prime Minister
Narendra Modi has said the
foundation of the 21st century
rests on the pillars of innova‑
tion, team work and technology
which would fue l India to
become a $5 trillion economy.
Speaking at the 56th
Convocation function of the
Indian Institute of Technology,
Madras (IITM), Modi said the
foundation of the 21st century
rests on three pillars ‑ innova‑
where, which he attributed to
reforms that his government has
brought in over five years. He
underlined four D factors ‑‑
demo cracy, demog raphcis,
demand and decisiveness ‑‑ that
are making India an attractive
growth market.
A confident, composed and
clear‑headed prime minster,
speaking in Hindi, made a posi‑
tive impact on the forum attend‑
ed by over 50 Heads of State and
Delegations, and over 200 CEOs.
Prominent speakers at the
forum included former US
Presidents George W. Bush and
Bill Clinton, the Prime Minister of
New Zealand Jacinda Ardern,
JPMorgan Chase Chairman and
CEO Jamie Dimon, the Walt
India's June quarter external
debt over $557 billion
Mumbai: India's external debt
for the quarter‑ended June 2019
rose to $557.4 billion, from
$543.3 billion during the previ‑
ous quarter and $513.1 billion
in the year‑ago period.
According to the Reserve Bank
of India's external debt statistics
released with a lag of one quar‑
ter, the country's debt witnessed
an increase of 2.6 per cent over
its level at end‑March 2019, pri‑
marily on account of an increase
review as against a depletion of
$11.3 billion in Q1 of 2018‑19.
In addit ion, net inflow on
account of external commercial
tion, team work and technology.
"During the US visit, I met
many heads of states, business
leaders, innovators, investors. In
our discussions, there was one
common thread. It was opti‑
mism about New India," Modi
said.
He said the Indian community
has made a mark for itself world
over in science, technology and
innovation and many of them
were former IIT students.
Disney Company Chairman and
CEO Bob Iger, European Central
Bank Incoming President
Christine Lagarde; Mahindra
Group Chairman Anand
Mahindra; Alphabet and Google
SVP and CFO Ruth Porat; The
Blackstone Group Chairman and
CEO Stephen Schwarzman; and
T he Goldman Sachs Group
Chairman and CEO David M.
Solomon.
The theme driving the forum,
“Instability,” came alive at the
beginning of the plenary session
through a unique dance perform‑
ance choreographed by world‑
renowned MacArthur “Genius”
Award‑winner Elizabeth Streb
that reflected uncertainty in the
global markets.
in commercial borrowings, non‑
resident deposits and short‑term
trade credit. "The increase in
external de bt was also con‑
tributed by valuation losses
resulting from the depreciation
of the US dollar against Indian
rupee and other major curren‑
cies," the RBI said in a statement.
"The external debt to GDP ratio
remained at 19.8 per cent at
end‑June 2019, the same as its
level at end‑March 2019."
borrowings to India was higher by
$6.3 billion in Q1 of 2019‑20 as
against an outflow of $1.5 billion
a year ago.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
Bradmanesque! Rohit has
an average of 98.22 at home
New Delhi: Rohit Sharma turned a
new leaf on Wednesday as he not
only scored a century in his first
innings as a Test opener to put
India in the driver's seat at the
end of the opening day of the
first Test against South Africa,
but also equaled Don Bradman's
record of having a batting aver‑
age of 98.22 at home.
While Bradman had an average
of 98.22 after 50 innings at home
with 4322 runs in his kitty, Rohit
has 884 runs after 15 innings
with the same average.
Speaking at the end of the day's
play, Rohit insisted that his plan
was to trust his game and abili‑
ties and that's what he was able
to achieve as he remained
unbeaten on 115 at stumps on
the opening day.
"I wanted to take the opportuni‑
ty and that's why I made the man‑
agement aware of it. I am grateful
to them for providing me with
the opportunity and I am happy I
could score runs," Rohit told
reporters.
Talking about his batting plans
in the initial overs, the 32‑year‑
old said he wanted to see off the
new ball and then cash in from
Ex-Indian cricketers
divided on opinion
on Dhoni's future
New Delhi: There seems to be a
dif ference in opinion among for‑
mer cricketers on whether M.S.
Dhoni should continue playing or
hang his boots. Ever since the cul‑
mination of the 50‑overs World
Cup in England and Wales, specu‑
lations have been rife that Dhoni
might have played his last game
for the country. W hile he has
made himself unavailable, there is
no official word on what exactly is
the plan of action.
Former Indian opening batsman
Gautam Gambhir, who is known to
not mince his words when it
comes to expressing his opinion,
believes that the decision of retire‑
ment should be left on Dhoni. But
he doesn't see him playing the
2023 World Cup and thus, it is
only fair that a young player is
given the opportunity.
"I feel that retirement is a very
individual decision. Till the time
you want to play you are allowed
to play, but you do have to look at
the future as well. I do not see
Dhoni playing the next World
Cup," Gambhir said..
"So whoever is the captain
Rohit Sharma in action on Day 1 of the first Test between India and
South Africa, in Visakhapatnam. (Photo: Surjeet Yadav/IANS)
thereafter.
"I was very clear in my mind
what I wanted to do. The new ball
will always do a bit in the initial
overs ‑‑ whether it's red ball or
white.
"I have played cricket in India
for a long time now and that's
why I was aware of the condi‑
tions and knew that once you get
past the first 10 overs, it becomes
dif ficult to get wickets. And it
MS Dhoni.
(then), Virat (Kohli) or anyone else,
should have the courage to say so,
that this player is not fitting into
the scheme of things. It's time for
some of the youngsters to get
groomed in the next four‑five
years, because ultimately it is not
about Dhoni, it is about the coun‑
try.' Earlier, Suresh Raina said
Dhoni has a lot to offer to Indian
cricket and can prove to be a wor‑
thy asset for the team in next
year's World T20.
"He is still fit, still a terrific wick‑
et‑keeper and still the greatest fin‑
isher in the game. Dhoni will be an
asset for India in the T20 World
Cup," Raina told The Hindu.
SPORTS
becomes easier to score runs.
"This was my plan to tackle the
new ball and then stick to what I
had planned. Backing myself and
my game was most important for
me because it was all I had in my
mind," he added.
ICC acknow ledged Rohit's
superb knock and said: "The HIT‑
MAN is back with a bang. Rohit
Sharma gets his first Test ton as
an opener!"
Kapil didn't need to resign as CAC chief: Vinod Rai
New Delhi: Cricket Advisory
Committee (CAC) chief Kapil Dev
might have resigned from his posi‑
t ion but Committee
Administrators (CoA) chief Vinod
Rai has made it clear that Kapil
of
didn't need to tender a resignation
as his appointment was specific to
the selection of the head coach of
the Indian team.
Speaking to IANS, Rai said that
the letter given to the trio clearly
said that it was an appointment for
the selection of the head coach
and not an annual one.
"No, the resignat ion wasn't
required because in the original
appointment letter given to them
(Kapil, Anshuman Gaekwad and
October 5-11, 2019 31
NBA Games will display
level not seen before in India
Kolkata:
Sacramento Kings and
W hen
Indiana Pacers play in the
first ever NBA India
Games in Mumbai, the
level of basketball on dis‑
play will leave fans in the
country "shocked" as they
will be in for a treat, feels
NBA legend Jason
Williams.
"I think the fans here
are in for a treat when NBA legend Jason Williams.
they see the Kings and
the Pacers play," Williams told played the next day at NSCI in
IANS on Wednesday. "The fans Worli is open for the general pub‑
have never seen a brand of bas‑ lic. Talking about the players in
ketball that they are going to see Pacers' and Kings' rosters,
here with these guys. The talent Williams, who donned the Kings'
level is so high, they are so fast shirt between 1998‑2001 as he
and the way they jump. started off, said it's a big opportu‑
Everything is like...maybe it will nity for them to impress the
put you guys in shock. Just Indian audience and turn them
because you guys have never seen into their fans and develop a lik‑
anything like this," said Williams, ing for the sport.
"It's huge for the Pacers and the
a NBA champion with Miami Heat
in 2006 and a Sacramento Kings Kings to come to India for the first
legend. Pacers and Kings will play time for the NBA in India, it's a
two pre‑season games at the huge honor for those guys to
DOME, NSCI, SVP Stadium in come and play here. I mean bas‑
Mumbai on Friday and Saturday. ketball is such a great sport. It's a
While the opening game on Friday beautiful game," said the 43‑year‑
is reserved for over 3,000 youth old former point guard known for
under a Re liance Foundation his passes, crossover dribble
Junior Program, the one to be moves and alley‑oop plays.
Kapil Dev.
Shantha Rangaswamy) it was said the Ethics Officer," he said.
that it was specific to that selec‑ The former Indian captain's deci‑
tion (appointment of head coach) sion to resign from the CAC comes
only," he said. Asked if that meant after Ethics Officer D.K. Jain sent a
the conflict issue is a closed chap‑ notice to the panel with regards to
ter, Rai refused to get into the mat‑ allegations of conflict of interest as
ter. "Like I said before also, I would claimed by MPCA life member
not like to prejudge the decision of Sanjeev Gupta.
 32 October 5-11, 2019
Amitabh Bachchan humbled ʻBharat' is Bollywood's
by Dadasaheb Phalke honor biggest overseas
M
egastar Amitabh Bachchan, who is
being feted with the Dadasaheb
Phalke Award, is still feeling over‑
whelmed days after the Award was
announced, and says he is "not worthy" of
the prestigious honor.
Amitabh took to his blog and poured his
heart out.
"The overwhelming love and appreciation
from the moment of the declaration of the
DPA (Dadasaheb Phalke Award) has been
most humbling...," he wrote.
He added: "I cannot deny the fact that it
lends me to a stage of embarrassment...
When you do consider yourself not worthy
of it at all... of perhaps a mistake made by
them that decided on it."
The cine icon said that such honors draw
constant glare of recognition.
"The attention it draws does put you in
the constant glare of recognition ‑‑ a condi‑
tion we as actors work assiduously for our
entire lives ‑‑ and when it does come, make
all possible gadgetry to avoid it... Glares for
the eyes, dark tinted windows, guarded
movements to places of natural destination
and on," he added.
Amitabh concluded by saying "for the
moment though it is folded hands and
Hasan Minhaj says he was
denied entry at Howdy, Modi!
P
opular Indian‑origin comedian
Hasan Minhaj has confirmed that he
was denied entry at the 'Howdy
Modi' event in Houston, and said the organ‑
izers "honored" him while "blackballing"
him. In an appearance on Late Night with
Seth Meyers, Minhaj narrated how things
got “intense” when he tried to enter the
venue Sept 22. "I was like I have to be there.
So, we submit our press credentials immedi‑
ately get an email back through saying,
'We're out of space'. I was like, I've been to
Indian weddings, you just walk in. You're
out of space in a football stadium? Nah.
"So, I recheck with the organizers, 'Hey
guys, it's my community, you get it?' I want
to be there. And they're like, 'We're out of
space but we'll discuss it.' I'm like 'okay.'
And I'm like ʻI'm sorry for making fun of
cricket. It's not a sport for farms, it's an
international game that's taking over the
world. They are like, ʻNo, some of the com‑
ments you made about Prime Minister
Narendra Modi were not appreciated and
ULTIMATE BOLLYWOOD TheSouthAsianTimes.info
grosser of 2019 so far
The legendary actor will be the 50th
recipient of Dadasaheb Phalke award
extreme humility."
Dadasaheb Phalke Award is India's high‑
est honor given in the field of cinematic art.
Big B will be honored with the award for
inspiring generations with his diverse Salman Khan starrer 'Bharat' has minted $10.71 M outside India
work. alman Khan's Eid 2019 release ʻBharatʼ to‑back 14 centuries for Salman Khan," film
S is still unbeaten overseas, when it
comes to Bollywood offerings this year.
and trade expert Girish Johar said when
ʻBharatʼ cruised past Rs 100 crore mark in
The last quarter of 2019 is set to begin, but
the Ali Abbas Zafar directorial is the highest‑
grossing Hindi film abroad.
India.
ʻGully Boyʼ, India's official entry for the
92nd Academy Awards, is next on the list.
ʻBharatʼ, co‑starring Katrina Kaif, saw
Salman sporting different looks in a role that
Zoya Akhtar's film raked in $ 10.25 million.
Starring Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt, the
ages from a young guy to an old man in the film was inspired by the lives of rapper
story. It has minted $ 10.71 million outside Naved Shaikh, popular by his stage name
India, according to Naezy, and rapper Divine (Vivian Fernandes).
"timesofindia.indiatimes.com." 'Joshʼ for Vicky Kaushal's ʻUri ‑ The
The film had also helped Salman add Surgical Strikeʼ has been high outside India
another feather to his cap. "It becomes back‑ too. The film has earned $ 7.46 million.
Hasan Minhaj
outside the
Howdy Modi
event venue. UP minister slams Sonakshi for
Ramayana ignorance
U
ttar Pradesh Minister
Sunil Bharala has
slammed Bollywood
you've been blacklisted',”
actor Sonakshi Sinha, who
Minhaj told Meyers.
was unable to answer a sim‑
The comedian said he watched the event
ple question on 'Ramayana'
on his phone in the parking lot of NRG
during popular television
Stadium and saw many Indian‑Americans,
quiz show Kaun Banega
including fellow comedians like Mindy
Crorepati last week. Bharala
Kaling and Aziz Ansari, being honored for
said, "In modern times, these
their contribution to the field of arts. He
people are only after money.
said he found it ironic that his photograph
All they care about is earning
also popped up on the screen at the event as Sonakshi Sinha was trolled on social media
money and spending that
one of the achievers of the community. for not knowing Ramayana story
money on themselves. They
"They were honoring me for my comedy
have no knowledge of history and gods. Expressing his surprise at Sonakshi's
while also blackmailing and blackballing me
They have no time for learning. Nothing lack of knowledge about the Indian epic,
and kicking me out for my comedy. It is the
can be sadder than this". the show's host actor Amitabh Bachchan
most Indian thing ever. They were like,
On the show to support a contestant later pointed out how strange it was as
'We're proud of you but we'll never say it to
from Rajasthan, Sonakshi was asked: she lives in a house called 'Ramayana', her
your face,” Minhaj said as the audience
"According to Ramayana, Hanuman father's name is Shatrughan Sinha, whose
roared with laughter.
fetched the 'Sanjeevani Booti' (herb) for three other brothers are called Ram,
Minhaj had earlier faced a lot of heat on
whom?" Lakshman and Bharat, and her own broth‑
social media for his episodes on the Lok
She apparently did not know the answer ers are named Luv and Kush.
Sabha election, the results of which saw
from the four options given ‑‑ Sugriva, The actor was also trolled on social
Modi return for a second term with a
Lakshman, Sita and Rama, and finally media for not knowing the story of
thumping majority, and the recent clamp‑
used a lifeline to answer the question. Ramayana.
down in Kashmir.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info LIFESTYLE October 5-11, 2019 33

Great to see people wanting McDonald's joins Beyond Meat

to be healthy: Sanjeev Kapoor bandwagon with Canada tests
P M
opular chef Sanjeev Kapoor is
happy to see more and more people
wanting to be healthy.
"It is great to see more and more people,
especially younger generation, wanting to
be healthy. There are minor lifestyle
changes ‑ some lost treasures from our
Indian culture, most scientific, that can
enable everyone to be so much closer to
their health and fitness goals," said Kapoor.
Among the various projects he is current‑
ly tied up with is one of Zomato's original
shows.
"Who would have ever thought that one
day you would find Sanjeev Kapoor in the
palm of your hands? Through the years,
technology has made the world smaller,
and with ''Food & You'' on Zomato, I saw an
opportunity to contribute to general well‑
being of people of today. Everyone is in a
rush; ''Food &You'' is an attempt to make
us healthy and happy through power of
food," he shared.
"The concept (of the show) is to extend
an insurance with the least premium ‑ 2
minutes of a user's time and highest value ‑
lifelong wealth of knowledge. While there
are a lot of cookery and health shows, I had
been meaning to do a myth‑busting show
like this for a long time."
"I was excited when the Zomato team
wanted me to work on health, rather than a
regular show and was excited by the verti‑
cal concept. That inspired us to shape a
cDonaldʼs will test a new “plant,
lettuce and tomato” sandwich
using Beyond Meat patties in
some restaurants in Canada next week,
the company said last week, following
major rivalsʼ bets on the plant‑based pro‑
tein mania in North America.
Shares of Beyond Meat jumped and
McDonaldʼs stock was also up marginally.
The worldʼs largest burger chain joins
Tim Hortons, KFC and Dunkinʼ Brands in
adding products made with Beyond Meat
patties to their menus.
As consumers grow more concerned
about health and the impact of industrial
animal farming on climate change, the McDonaldʼs rival Burger King and
plant‑based market is expected to Impossible Foods teamed up in April
explode to an estimated $140 billion over for the U.S. rollout of a
the next decade, according to Barclays. plant‑based Whopper.
Beyond Meat, a pioneer of plant‑based
Chef Sanjeev Kapoor
meat substitutes, is competing with in Canada.
two‑minute native mobile concept in the McDonaldʼs has not yet indicated if it
Silicon Valley‑based Impossible Foods for
form of ''Food & You''." will launch a U.S. plant‑based burger, but
dominance of the market.
On the biggest myth around food, Kapoor there has been intense market specula‑
McDonaldʼs rival Burger King and
said: "There are so many ‑ even around tion on which meatless burger maker
Impossible Foods teamed up in April for
something as simple as water. Unlike popu‑ McDonaldʼs could pick.
the U.S. rollout of a plant‑based Whopper.
lar belief, what if I told you 'paani peena McDonaldʼs has bucked this trend in
The Impossible Burger is also sold at fast
nahi, khaana chahiye'. Most people gulp Germany, where it sells Nestleʼs
food chain White Castle and at Disney
water down like their life depends on it. Incredible Burger ‑ marketed as the Big
theme parks.
Our life does depend on water, but it can Vegan ‑ in 1,500 stores for a lower price
“We wish McDonaldʼs similar success in
only do the magic everyone talks about ‑ than it charges for its Hamburger Royal,
its 28‑unit test in Canada,” Impossible
be it on your skin, digestive system, and which is comparable to a U.S. Quarter
Foods stated. t. Spokeswoman Jessica
even weight ‑ when consumed the right Pounder. In June, McDonaldʼs began sell‑
Appelgren told Reuters the Impossible
way, by the right amount and at the right ing the Big Vegan in several Israeli stores.
Burger has not yet been approved for sale
time."

Let your lips speak Now a device to regrow hair

L T
ipsticks are a
statement make‑
up item for most
looks, but choosing the
right lip color can be
daunting. You wouldnʼt
want your trusted bright
red or favorite peachy
pink to betray the occa‑
sion it is being worn for.
Here are some tips to
make the perfect
impression.
Nude shades
at work
During the long work‑
ing hours, it is impor‑
tant to wear shades that
are not too loud and look profes‑
sional. A nude lip shade, there‑
fore, looks elegant at office and
will boost your confidence.
Pop it up with red
Shades of red are the classic
way to bring in the weekend and
a bold red can make you a stun‑
ner when youʼre out clubbing.
here is good news for people
experiencing hair loss as
researchers have developed a
wearable device that harnesses
energy from the wearer and deliv‑
ers gentle electric pulses to stimu‑
late dormant hair follicles and
regrow hair.
Because the devices are powered
by the movement of the wearer,
they do not require a bulky battery
pack or complicated electronics.
In fact, they are so low‑profile
that they could be discreetly worn
underneath the crown of an every‑
For thoughtful gifting
F
mood of a Sunday.
estivals are the time when
Peaches at we strengthen new relation‑
ships and celebrate the old
dinner table ones with the joy of gifting. But gift‑
ing can get overwhelming – starting
Neither too bold, nor too sub‑
from what to give, how to give,
tle, peach lip color can be the
perfect lip shade for a family where to it buy from and will they
dinner. like it or not. But people say it is not
the gift, but the thought that
Shimmer the counts. Experts suggest some
day baseball cap.
“I think this will be a very practi‑
cal solution to hair regeneration,”
said one of the researchers Xudong
Wang, Professor at the University of
Wisconsin‑Madison in the US.
In side‑by‑side tests on hairless
mice, the devices stimulated hair
growth just as effectively as two
different compounds found in bald‑
ness medicines, said the study pub‑
lished in the journal ACS Nano.
Based on devices that gather energy
from a bodyʼs day‑to‑day motion,
the hair growth technology stimu‑
Ganesha idols, wall hangings and
frames representing him in various
traditional and contemporary styles
– singing, traveling, playing flute or
dhol and even riding a bike are a
rage as a home decor gift.
A Buddha statue, on the other
hand, is a symbol of Lord Buddha's
teachings, which keeps negative
energies away from home. Gifting
lates the skin with gentle, low‑fre‑
quency electric pulses, which coax
dormant follicles to reactivate hair
production. The devices do not
cause hair follicles to sprout anew
in smooth skin. Instead they reacti‑
vate hair‑producing structures that
have gone dormant.
That means they could be used as
an intervention for people in the
early stages of pattern baldness, but
they would not bestow cascading
tresses to someone who has been as
bald as a billiard ball for several
years.
own health benefits, especially
while drinking water. Lamps and
lightings define festivity and will
always be useful for decorating
homes. Antiques like wall clocks,
gramophones, metal frames sym‑
bolizing the Sun, a chariot, nature,
etc. add to the charm of any living
room and are gifts cherished by all.
A water fountain represents a flow

Pick pink for wedding look thoughtful options gifting without

Sunday brunch
Pink lipsticks can be an ideal
match for the relaxed, casual
Canʼt do without shimmer
when youʼre ready to shimmy.
Metallic shades work wonders
with your outfit at a wedding.
having to think a lot. To start with,
Ganesha is not only the most auspi‑
cious but also one of the most
graceful deities. It is believed that a
Ganesha idol if gifted by someone,
works as a token of good luck.
elegant kitchenware and cutlery
can be a good choice to let your
loved ones win over their guests.
German silver glasses, colorful tea‑
sets are an affordable and trendy
option. Copper pots, jars, and glass‑
es are also a great gift with their
of money, happiness and positive
vibes. Gifting a desktop water foun‑
tain is like wishing for one's pros‑
perity and progress. These foun‑
tains also look refreshing and add a
happy feel to offices, homes and
work place.
34 October 5-11, 2019 ART AND LITERATURE TheSouthAsianTimes.info

The making, unmaking, and more of Boris Johnson

By Vishnu Makhijani unwillingness to make choices which would
Book Review entail a degree of self‑sacrifice. Asked if he

I
t is almost two months that Boris Johnson
has been the Prime Minister of Britain. But
what was his career like in the initial years
of politics and how did he rise in the
Conservative Party? These details have been
penned down by a veteran journalist Andrew
W Gimson in a book.
The book "Boris, The Making of the Prime
Minister" (Simon and Schuster), first pub‑
lished in 2006, is outdated and has been upa‑
dated.
This is not to detract from Gimson's
paintstaking portrayal of Johnson's early
years, his first steps in politics, his rise in the
Conservative Party to lead the Brexit cam‑
paign, the "treachery" that dashed his hopes
of becoming the Prime Minister post the
Brexit vote and his bouncing back as the
Foreign Secretary.
The updated version tracks Johnson's eight
years as Mayor of London from 2008 to
2016, during which time the London
Olympics were held in 2012.
"It's all rubbish from start to finish ‑ but
well‑written rubbish," Johnson said of the
book when the first edition was released.
To put this in perspective, the book pro‑
vides some telling insights into the way
Johnson's mind works.
"Boris found himself trapped in the role of a
celebrity. Without ever holding a political
office of any significance, he had become
more famous than most Cabinet ministers,
but was also considered more irresponsible.
There was a danger that he would turn into a
kind of national treasure, to be wheeled out
and laughed at on significant occasions, or
occasions which television producers regard‑
ed as significant.
"One of his weaknesses is an excessive
desire to be liked, and he will be hurt if he
doesn't come across as likeable in this book.
Another flaw is his inability or obdurate
would like A or B, he generally gives no clear
answer and tries to have both.
"He detracts our attention from his evasive‑
ness by telling very enjoyable jokes, which
along with his Woosterish persona, have
made him one of the most popular perform‑
ers of our times. But the jokes can often make
him seem to serious‑minded listeners as if he
does not believe a word of what he is saying,"
Gimson writes. In fact, on the A&B aspect, the
author says that over the weekend before he
announced his line on Brexit, Johnson spent
time in the country and wrote two papers:
One to Stay and the other to Leave, with the
former stating a stronger case.
Why then, did Johnson choose the Leave
option? Because had the referendum resulted
in a Stay verdict, so would have David
Cameroon as the Prime Minister, putting paid
to his chances of rising to the top job.
Even so, the last chapter of this book is yet
to be written.

Indian Muslims On birth anniversary, Mahatma

divided on caste, class to ''return to life'' at UNESCO
& regional lines: Book
M
ahatma Gandhi is ''set States, youth and the interna‑ than 5 per cent of the compiled
to return to life'' in the tional community. 98 volumes," said Dr. Anantha

M
uslims in India form of a hologram at The Ahinsa Lecture is organ‑ Duraiappah, Director, UNESCO
have been play‑ UNESCO Paris to mark the ized to mark Mahatma's birth Mahatma Gandhi Institute of
ing their consti‑ International Day of Non anniversary. Education for Peace and
tutional role and are Violence 2019. The lifesize 3D According to plans, the holo‑ Sustainable Development.
focused on basic issues hologram will "address audi‑ gram would speak for 2 to 3 "A 3D hologram can bridge
of poverty, employment ence" to explain the Mahatma's minutes to set the tone for the this gap and the written word
generation and educa‑ philosophy in a life‑like audio panel discussion and would of the Mahatma can be experi‑
tion, according to a book visual medium. also take a QA session. enced.
released at the Faculty of The 3D hologram will feature "While Gandhi Ji was The hologram in color would
Arts Lounge, Aligarh in the Ahimsa Lecture delivered amongst the most pho‑ lip‑sync the words of the
Muslim University. by leading proponents of peace tographed people of his time Mahatma and body movement
The book, ''Siyasi and non‑violence for the bene‑ and the world has access to his incorporated that's associated
Muslims: A Story of fit of peace builders, policy photographs, filmed interviews with a speaker on stage,"
Political Islams in India'' makers, UNESCO Member and radio addresses, it is less Duraiappah said.
(Penguin India), is an
attempt to reach out to
those who are interested
in knowing about what's
called ''political Islam'' in
Your life now an open book,
Snowden says in memoir
India, according to its
author Hilal Ahmed,
Associate Professor at

the Centre for Study of
Developing Societies, New Delhi.
He said Muslim presence was
always considered a homoge‑
neous entity in the public dis‑
courses, but highly diversified
Muslim social life occupied
greater space.
"Muslims are divided on the
basis of caste, class and regional
lines," said Ahmed. The caste,
class and gender were not only
sociological indicators to offer a
context‑specific view of Muslim
backwardness, but also played a
role in shaping the nature of
Muslim engagements with dif‑
ferent forms of politics, he
added.
Unlike the Muslim elites of the
1960s and 1970s, who came pri‑
C
lose to two decades since
marily from erstwhile Muslim‑
the 9/11 attacks, the sur‑
dominated urban centers, like
veillance system built by
Hyderabad, Lucknow and Delhi,
the US spy agencies has become
new Muslim professionals
so sophisticated that they can
belonging to lower middle class
access every single detail about
neighborhoods in Metros and
you, irrespective of your loca‑
small towns were transcending
tion, whistleblower Edward
their economic status, Ahmed
Snowden says in his much‑await‑
said.
ed memoir "Permanent Record"
Ahmed said Muslim political
released this week.
groups operated within the con‑
Snowden, who served as an
stitutional framework and their
officer of the CIA and worked as
demands were made through the
a contractor for the National
language of rights and the law.
Security Agency (NSA), rocked "No matter the place, no matter onage system ‑ from targeted
They (Muslim political groups)
the world in 2013 after he the time, and no matter what you surveillance of individuals to
highlight Muslim's contribution
revealed that the US was secretly do, your life has now become an mass surveillance ‑ took effect.
in nation‑building and focus on
building a way to collect the data open book," Snowden writes. The title of the book refers to the
the Muslim unity, Ahmed said,
of every person in the world, The 339‑page memoir pub‑ system of storing data perma‑
but it was qualified in the sense
including phone calls, text mes‑ lished by Macmillan details how nently and the dangers associat‑
of self‑identification as minority.
sages and email. the change in the American espi‑ ed with it.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info IMMIGRATION October 5-11, 2019 35

By Suchitra Srinivas

W
hatʼs in store for you on the other
side of the globe? Green bucks, big
mansion, luxury cars and robots to
wash, clean and do your chores, uninterrupted
water and power supply, clean roads, less
crowd in malls and shops ̶ yes, you can have
it all, but alongside comes an unexpected role
reversal challenge. There are new avatars and
untold adjustment stories of immigrants to the
US that go unnoticed.
“When I landed in the US, I was pregnant, I
dreamt of walking on Wall Street dressed in the
best of formal clothes, entering a high‑rise
office building. Little did I realize that I would
be called a ʻdependentʼ here for the next 10
years and these thoughts would just remain in
my dreams forever. Me, a dependent on my
husband? How can that be? I am well‑educated,
hold a degree from one of the top professional
colleges in India, and was employed before
coming here,” kept pondering Anita Rajan. Then
came the answer, “You do not have the support
of the right syllables on the paper.”
They meant to say that instead of H1B, all she
had was H4 stamping on her visa. “Thatʼs not a
big deal, I can always apply for one,” she
remained optimistic. Unfortunately, it took her
ten years to get work authorization. In the
meantime, she became a mother to two beauti‑
ful daughters and had to assume many roles in
her home ̶mother, teacher, nanny, cook, driv‑
er and maid ̶ all of which didnʼt generate any
income. After ten years, when she became eligi‑
ble to work, she was not sure if she wanted to
pursue her dream anymore. Questions haunted
her, “Can I drive to work, can I fit into formal
attire? Do I still remember what I did at work
ten years ago?”
On the other hand, the story of Maheswari
Jangannathan hailing from a remote village
near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu was quite dif‑
ferent. As she entered this country with L4 visa,
she had the luxury of settling into worklife in
no time. However, having studied in a Tamil
medium school, coping with English conversa‑
tions in the new clerical job proved a night‑
mare, not to speak of her car driving travails.
Any time she heard the traffic carʼs siren, even
when at her office desk, she would feel butter‑
flies in her stomach. She was petrified by the
UNTOLD ROLE REVERSAL,
a challenge of immigration
impact of ever‑rising insurance costs because of
getting traffic tickets for sundry violations. Still
more compelling is the adjustment stories of
those in the medical profession. Landing with
degrees from India that would have cost them a
fortune to acquire, such women eventually
encounter bitter experiences in their lives.
“Wow! When I boarded the flight as the newly‑
wed wife of a young medico in America ̶ the
land with the most advancement in the medical
field ̶ I thought my life was going to be so
exciting. Though many said that I have to pur‑
sue higher education to practice as a doctor, I
never knew I had to start from scratch. The five
years of toil and the lakhs of rupees I spent in
medical college was not valued one bit here.
Why should I start all over again, I asked myself
and settled for a non‑medical career. It was a
huge adjustment I made in my life,” said
Starting a new
biweekly column
that traces the
lives of Indian
diaspora,
capturing
their adjustment
struggles as
well as
success stories.
Bhavna, who had dreams of practicing as a doc‑
tor here. There are others like Janaki Sowmyan,
who is in her mid‑thirties. She was termed ʻdull
headʼ at the Chennai school where she studied.
She began attending a computer programing
class at a public library and suddenly felt inter‑
ested in the knowledge she had gained and
decided to get a degree that would land her a
well‑paid job in the software industry. She now
nets a higher salary than that of her spouse
who holds a doctorate in biochemistry and
works for a prestigious pharma lab!
These adjustments are not confined to
women only. Here is the tale of a studious IIT
graduate who never enjoyed a childhood
because he toiled day and night to move to the
US to study at MIT. All went as per plan but he
found that his economic status and job satisfac‑
tion in the non‑IT sector was limited. Like other
Asian immigrants, Harish too found himself in
an IT career, which was a huge reversal and he
could not reconcile soon enough. The very
pride of being an IIT‑MIT alumnus used to taunt
him. Of course, there are many like
Raghavendran, now in his seventies, who had
everything as planned ̶ degrees from
American universities, a dream job, family and
loving, well‑groomed children and grand‑chil‑
dren. Sounds perfect? If you ask him, he may
disagree. “There was a big role reversal and
adjustment that I had to make at every stage.
Something always made me feel lonely and
less‑wanted.” He accepts being jealous of the
new, young immigrants who he believes have a
smooth sailing in their career path in the IT sec‑
tor.
The Indian immigrants mentioned above are
true representation of thousands of real men
and women who experience both pleasant and
rude shocks of the role reversal challenge. Well,
then why anyone would still stand in long
queues to acquire a US visa? Because this coun‑
try has some magical allure. Sure, it thrusts a
role reversal challenge upon everyone but it
also prepares one to face it. And no one is ever
left with no role to play.
Suchitra Srinivas
is a
journalist based
at New Jersey.
She can be
contacted at
suchitrasrini‐
vas0824
@gmail.com. Column first
published in DTNext
newspaper. Reproduction by
special arrangement

EB-4 Visa: Religious Workers

By Michael Phulwani,
Esq. and Dev B.
Viswanath, Esq.

T VISA
is associated with the religious gious workers called the R‑1 sional who understands the
he EB‑4 visa is an employ‑ denomination in the U.S. Visa. While the two categories process of foreign national reli‑
ment‑based immigrant 4 Have been employed in one are related and similar, they are gious workers.
visa for special religious

employees. Ministers/Priests and
non‑ministers in religious voca‑
tions and occupations may enter
or adjust status in the U.S. to per‑
form religious work as a full‑time
compensated employee. There is
a cap of 5,000 employees who
may be issued a visa under the
EB‑4 category if they will be
employed as a non‑minister –
they include those within a reli‑
gious vocation or occupation
engaging in either a professional
or non‑professional role. There is
no cap for those employed as a
minister.
To qualify as a special immi‑
grant religious employee, the for‑
eign individual must:
4 Have been a member of a
religious denomination for at
TALK
least two years immediately
before the filing of a petition.
The religious denomination must
be a bona‑fide non‑profit reli‑
gious organization in the US.
4 Come to the U.S. to work in
a full time, compensated position
as either
* A minister of that religious
denomination;
* A religious vocation or pro‑
fession in a professional or non‑
professional position
4 Employed for either a
* Bona fide non‑profit religious
organization in the U.S.; or
* Bona fide organization that
of the above positions after the
age of 14, either abroad or in the
U.S., for two continuous years
immediately before the filing of a
petition. Both the employing
non‑profit religious organization
and the religious employee must
provide supporting documents
along with the proper forms. The
religious organization must pro‑
vide proof of tax‑exempt status
and proof of salaried or non‑
salaried compensation. The reli‑
gious employee must provide
proof of membership, documen‑
tation showing that religious
worker is qualified to perform
the duties of the proposed posi‑
tion, and proof of previous reli‑
gious work.
There is a similar non‑immi‑
grant category of visa for reli‑
parallel and anyone or organiza‑ Any dependents of EB‑4 nonim‑
tion considering bringing reli‑ migrants, spouse and unmarried
gious workers to their religious children under the age of 21, will
institution or entities should need to apply for derivative fami‑
review them carefully with an ly visas once the principal appli‑
experienced immigration profes‑ cant is approved.
Dev Banad Viswanath is the Principal
Attorney of The Banad Law Offices PC
in the United States,
and Banad Immigration in India for which
Attorney Michael Phulwani is also affiliated
as Of Counsel. With Offices in Manhattan,
Queens, Bangalore, and Mumbai, the firm is
able to assist clients with all facets of the
immigration process, including
Employment Visas, Consular Visa Assistance,
Student Visas, Removal & Deportation, US
Citizenship and Green Card Applications
based on Family or Employment. Dev B.
Viswanath can be reached at
Dev@Banadlaw.com and 718‑361‑5999.
 36 October 5-11, 2019 HUMOR TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Funny Side by Nury Vittachi

Why we should all be walking backwards for our health

W
ant to get ahead? Just
back up. T he ancient
Chinese tradit ion of
walking backwards for health is
spreading like wildfire around the
world. More than 20 countries
have set up 'retro‑stepping' organi‑
zations, including India, Malaysia,
Argent ina, France, T he
Netherlands, etc. I heard this from
a reader who went to a walking
backwards event in South Africa
and had a brilliant time except for
when he fell over a small Mexican
and broke his skull. 'A bit of brain
fell out, but not much,' he told me.
'I still have plenty.'
I walk backwards myself from
time to time, and it DOES make
your muscles feel pleasantly loose
and flexible. Here are the questions
we backward walkers are always
asked.
Q: When you walk backwards,
how do you see where you are
going?
A: You don't! That's the fun part.
Q: Don't you crash into stuff like
lampposts?
A: No, because you choose a path
clear of those things. But you fre‑
quently hit phone‑starers.
Q: Don't they see you coming?
A: No. Phone‑starers are primi‑
tive small‑brained beasts who
meander through urban areas,
their gaze locked on to the phones
they hold.
Q: Does it hurt when you crash
into them?
A: No. The back parts of your
body and your head are tough,
while the front parts of the body
and the head are very tender. Hee
hee hee.
Q: Do you apologize to people
you bump into?
A: Yes, but I don't mean it.
Sometimes, I even manage not to
laugh as I pick them up.
Q: Do you ever get hurt yourself?
A: Sure! From time to time we
backward‑walkers stroll of f clif fs
and die. This can really spoil your
day. A guy walking backwards in
mainland China fell into a lake and
drowned. He gave up the sport
entirely after that.
Q: Isn't walking backwards really
slow?
A: No. A guy called Garret Doherty
in the UK ran a mile backwards in
less than seven minutes last month.
Most people couldn't run a mile for‑
wards in seven minutes, or in the
case of my completely spherical
former boss, seven years.
Q: Is there anything bad about
walking backwards?
A: Three things. First, you look
silly. Second, observers always
make the same joke, shouting:
'You're going the wrong way.' And
third, if you see an incredibly cute
person of the opposite sex, it's
REALLY hard to stalk them.
Q: Do you miss stalking people?
A: yeah, but a guy's gotta make
some sacrifices to keep in shape.
Q: What advice would you give to
a beginner who has never done it
before?
A: Avoid piers, cliff edges, ships,
hospital surgical theatres, chain‑
saw factories and bungee jump
decks. Most importantly, watch out
for small Mexicans.
In other news, a young lady
named Justine Elizabeth wrote on
Facebook: 'Illiturate people are
really making me mad.' You go,
girl. Smack them illiturates without
mersi. New generation writers
often present us with puzzles. A
girl called Lexa told internet read‑
ers about a visit she had just had
from a young man. 'All I can smell
is his colon,' she lamented. I really
REALLY hope this was a misprint
for 'cologne'.
Talking of spelling, US presiden‑
tial candidate Mitt Romney was
mocked when his staff accidentally
spelled America as Amercia. That's
nothing compared to probably the
all time greatest political spelling
mistake. In 2010, a candidate for
governor had his name misspelled
on voting machines in black neigh‑
borhoo ds in Chicago. Richard
Whitney was accidentally spelled
'Rich Whitey'. Yeah, he probably
lost a few votes.

Laughter is the Best Medicine

BEST
RATE
FOR
INDIA
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PAKISTAN
New York Head Quarter
422‑S Broadway
HICKSVILLE
NY 11801
By Mahendra Shah
516‑827‑1010
Mahendra Shah is an architect by education, entrepreneur by profession,
artist and humorist, cartoonist and writer by hobby. He has been recording
the plight of the immigrant Indians for the past many years in his
cartoons. Hailing from Gujarat, he lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info ASTROLOGY October 5-11, 2019 37

Chandigarh, India: +91-172- 256 2832, 257 2874

By Dr Prem Kumar Sharma Delhi, India: +91-11- 2644 9898, 2648 9899
psharma@premastrologer.com; w.premastrologer.com

OCTOBER 5‑11, 2019

Aries: You are likely to ace the com‑
petition on the academic front by the
dint of your hard work. Your competi‑
tive spirit and diehard ambition keeps you
in top form. If you keep your timing right, it
will be difficult to miss a good opportunity.
The week appears enjoyable, as you get to
spend it w ith friends and re lat ives.
Promotion or raise in on the anvil for those
serving with the government or with top
MNCs.
Taurus: Expect a few challenges on
the academic front, but will be up to
it! A symptom may come as a warn‑
ing to you to avoid excesses. Falling in love
seems a distinct possibility for the lonely
hearts. A long journey proves comfortable.
You will be able to give your best to a task
at hand.
A delayed payment may finally be received.
A lot of work on the domestic front may
impinge on your personal time.
Gemini: Your ideas are likely to click
towards mid of the week on the pro‑
fessional front. Your emotional sup‑
port and a sympathetic ear to someone dis‑
tressed will prove a healing balm to him or
her. Those seeking employment are likely
to get a call soon. A product purchased
recently will help to make life easier. Home
remedies come in real handy in curing a
minor ailment. You may attend a gathering
towards the end of this week.
Cancer: You will manage to find a
workable solution to a professional
problem and get the nod from high‑
er ups. You may long for a change, as daily
routine appears most unexciting, so start
planning on a vacation. Moodiness of lover
may put paid to your romantic aspirations.
Read the market well before putting your
money in it or you may burn your fingers.
You manage to stick to your exercise
regime, despite frequent interruptions.
Leo: Those in the government serv‑
ice may look forward to a profitable
wee k. It is goo d to show of f to
friends, but donʼt loosen the purse strings
too much. Students can expect a little tough,
but satisfying week. Your efficiency at work
is likely to get noticed. Convey your ideas
clearly, if you want people to listen to you.
A major purchase is on the anvil, so go all
out for it. Ill health poses no problems for
those pursuing their passion.
Virgo: A chance encounter with
someone influential is likely to solve
your current problems. Remain
truthful, even if the situation goes against
your interests. Joining partner in another
location is indicated and nearness will pro‑
vide a sense of fulfilment. Setting aside
some time for yourself will help achieve
mental calmness. Donʼt sit on the judge‑
ment seat, if you feel biased as you may
wrong someone.
Libra: Solid returns may be expect‑
ed in a real estate deal. You will feel
nice spending time with people you
were recently acquainted with this week.
Your gift of the gab will need to be substan‑
tiated with ground work to impress higher
ups. It is best to get a hint from spouse
before buying a gift, as he or she may have
other ideas.
Focussing on your own self will benefit
health and keep you fit.
Scorpio: Your excellent contribution
to a project or an assignment can put
you in a special category at work.
You may not be able to recover the full
amount in a transaction. Homemakers will
take steps to make the home environment
cheerful. Taking a break from your hectic
schedule seems difficult, but you will need
to take time out.
Donʼt leave anything to chance, especially in
exams or competition.
Sagittarius: Chance of settling down
in holy matrimony is possible for
the eligible. Time management will
be essential at work. Engineers and archi‑
tects are likely to win a prestigious project.
Your professional competence is certain to
impress all and get you a lot of lucrative
opportunities. Your busy schedule will keep
you on your toes, but keep you fit! Desist
from consuming exposed food and drinks
to avoid misery.
Capricorn: On the romantic front, a
stranger may have a mysterious
attraction for you, but stars advice
caution. Your life path gets clearer and
more defined on the academic front. Assess
the marketability of what you buy in bulk
beforehand to prevent losses. Getting
stressed out over an issue is a possibility
towards end of this week. Developing con‑
tacts with influential people is likely to ease
personal problems.
Aquarius: You are an outright extro‑
vert and take immense pleasure in
making people sit up and take note.
T his trait comes in handy at work to
impress higher ups! Regular workout with
friends is likely to make exercising fun. Find
time to learn a new skill or hone your tal‑
ents. Both businesspersons and the salaried
will find the week monetarily favourable.
You will manage to build up on savings by
becoming frugal in your spending.
Pisces: Meeting friends is likely to be
high on your agenda this week. Your
loving and caring nature will be
appreciated by one and all. Cheque or cash
for an outstanding amount may be received
soon. You will need to guide someone
regarding a new job or task, so be prepared
for it. Much ef fort may go into preparing
for something important on the academic
front. This is not the week to experiment
with a new dish.

October 5, 2019 institutions would enable you to

Ruled by number 5 and the planet
Mercury. You are an imaginative,
practical, honest, brilliant and simple.
Youʼre co‑operative and helpful per‑
son and enjoy enormous respect in
your friendʼs circle, but you need to
check your tendency to behave jeal‑
ous and stubborn at times.
New proposals and assignments
would improve your income and
prosperity. Although there would be a
rise in expenses but increase in earn‑
ings would take care of your needs.
Your strong willpower and determi‑
nation would see you emerge victori‑
ous in whatever task you undertake.
Travel would be undertaken quite fre‑
quently and would be important in
establishing new and important ties.
Difference of opinion with your fami‑
ly members would bring some stress‑
ful moments at home. Certain losses
due to overconfidence in others and
speculation cannot be ruled out.
Children will win laurels in their
respective fields and would be sup‑
portive and understanding towards
you. T he months of October,
February and June would be highly
significant.
October 6, 2019
Ruled by number 6 and the planet
Venus. You are kind hearted, gener‑
ous, simple, accommodating, love
peace and harmony. You have a
strong memory and an ability to
impress others with your intelligent
and witty conversation. but you need
to control your tendency to be extrav‑
agant, reckless and moody at times.
This year plenty of important func‑
tion and religious ceremonies would
be performed in the family. Social
ANNUAL PREDICTIONS: FOR THOSE BORN IN THIS WEEK
gathering and activities would be
beneficial in establishing new and
long lasting ties. Property matters
will materialize. Financially this year
might not bring results that you have
been dreaming for long.
Opportunities for a new job and
assignments would be plenty but job
satisfaction seems unlikely. A sudden
influence of a person from the oppo‑
site sex will give a new and interest‑
ing twist to your life. Travelling will
be pleasurable and highly exciting.
Friends would be helpful and sup‑
portive to your concerns. Some gains
through inheritance also seem high
on your cards. Pilgrimage or a distant
journey with the family for some. The
months of August, September and
March will prove to be highly result
oriented.
October 7, 2019
Ruled by number 7 and the planet
Neptune. You are intelligent, sensi‑
tive, adaptable, charming, independ‑
ent and kind hearted. You enjoy a
good position and respect at your
work place, but you need to control
your tendency towards extravagance,
recklessness and to dominate others.
This year you are going to do major
changes in your style of working. You
are also going to be more particular
about your health and looks. Gains
from investment and speculation will
improve your financial positions.
Long pending legal matters will be
sorted out to your satisfaction.
Promotions or increments are likely
to take place later in the year for
some of you. Your rapport with the
important govt. authorities in various
departments will improve. Children
may cause some dissatisfaction, but
your spouse will provide you with
lots of love and affection. The months
of October, January, March and June
will prove to be highly eventful.
October 8, 2019
Influenced by number 8 and the
planet Saturn. You are authoritative,
practical, systematic, friendly and
sober. You are smart and capable of
handling many important activities at
one time, but you need to check your
tendency to behave, impatient, spend‑
thrift and jealous at times.
This year the extra effort that you
might have to put in your work would
have tremendous positive ef fect on
your career and occupation. New
source of income is likely to enhance
your prosperity. You should invest in
real estate and fixed deposits for long
term gains. Frequent and fruitful
journeys are likely to keep you on the
move. Children would do well in stud‑
ies and make you feel proud. Later in
the year influence of a spiritual per‑
son would be a source of inspiration
in your life. Health would definitely
need more attention, especially for
those suf fering from asthma, bron‑
chitis and high blood pressure. The
months of September, December and
April will prove to be significant.
October 9, 2019
Ruled by number 9 and the planet
Mars. You are energetic, dashing,
courageous, enthusiastic and remark‑
ably brilliant. You are highly cultured
and have strong likes and dislikes.
You are fond of cleanliness and like to
devote special time to improve the
surrounding where you reside, but
you need to control your tendency to
behave dictatorial, aggressive and
moody at times.
Major changes in your career or
occupation seem evident. New money
making opportunities would be highly
alluring. Though sudden gains and
losses are foreseen. Your monetary
position would improve in the long
run. Health, subordinates and legal
matters might trouble you off and on,
but improved living standard and new
and important relationships that you
build during this period would be on
the brighter side. Children expected to
bring in some thrilling news later in
the year. Distant journeys, maybe
overseas for some would be highly
pleasurable and rewarding. T he
months of October, November,
February and June seem to be highly
beneficial.
October 10, 2019
Governed by number 1 and the
planet Sun, you are original, attrac‑
tive, warm hearted and philosophical
in nature. You are admired by those
around you for your ability to take
quick and courageous decisions, but
you need to check your tendency to
behave quarrelsome, impatient and
short‑tempered at times. This year
you will gain from your ability to do
smart business and you would also
build up excellent rapport with emi‑
nent people in public and private sec‑
tor. Favours from banks and financial
streamline your present projects.
New job opportunities for those in
service are quite imminent. Romance
and new alliances look likely for the
unattached. Elders and children in the
family will demand a lot of your
attention. Health of your spouse may
cause concern and anxiety. Spiritual
gains for some later in the year.
August, November, January and May
will be result oriented.
October 11, 2019
Influenced by number 2 and the
Moon, you are active, imaginative, sim‑
ple, trustworthy and impressive. You
are fond of travelling to distant places
and learn more about different cultures
and people, but you need to check you
tendency to behave moody and highly
unpredictable at times.
This year promises good and unyield‑
ing returns. Take extra precautions
before making any major investments.
Those involved in art, writing and other
creative professions should expect
recognition and monetary benefits.
Sudden help from an influential person
will bring a major boost to your career
and prosperity. Later in the year you
are likely to get involved in construc‑
tion or designing activities for yourself
or for others. Financially you would be
in a much better state and you would
find your confidence and morale very
high. Matrimonial alliances for some
around the yearend. Judicial matters
might not bring in the desired results,
therefore avoid getting involved in legal
complications. Children will be support‑
ive and bring in some happy and good
news later in the year. September,
December, April and July will especially
prove to be significant.
 38 October 5-11, 2019
By Sant Rajinder Singh
Ji Maharaj
I
f we were to look down upon
this physical world from a high
vantage point, we would find
the light of billions of souls shim‑
mering throughout the world.
Like a foaming sea, they move
about from one life to another,
from one form of living thing to
another. All the souls, when seen
in their true perspective, are the
same. They are all a part of God's
consciousness; they are all Light,
and they all have an innate bliss.
But if we look at the condition
of our world, we are appalled and
shocked by the suffering and pain
each form of life is undergoing.
We find strife and dissension
throughout the world. We find
countries at war. Many nations
are embroiled in internal con‑
flicts. We see religious groups at
odds with each other. Community
strife is widespread. Even within
families we find discord and
disharmony. We find human
beings killing various forms of
life, including other human
beings.
We wonder how there can be so
much pain and turmoil caused by
people who have within them the
same divinity of God. This seem‑
ing "fragmentation" of God into so
many souls was meant to bring an
increase in the Lord's happiness.
Just as a couple bear children to
increase their mutual love and
joy, so did God bring about the
creation of so many souls, so
many children. Yet the result is
far from what was intended. We
who are moving packets of bliss
and all‑consciousness are aware
of great pain and torment.
If we could return to our true
state and realize we are soul, we
would find lasting peace and
ecstasy. If we could tap deeply
within ourselves, penetrating
beyond the outer form of this
physical body and mind, we
would find a wellspring of eternal
peace and happiness. We would
discover the secret of unity
underlying this Universe.
Honoring
saints and
founders of all
religions
SPIRITUAL AWARENESS
Peace, harmony and
human unity
through
meditation
The various religious and spiri‑
tual traditions have more com‑
monalities than differences. The
common core of each is the same.
They believe in a higher power,
although called by different
names, which created all of us.
They also believe that we have a
spiritual core within us created by
the higher Power. They also
speak of tapping into this spiritu‑
al side of ourselves through
prayer, meditation, or inversion to
uncover our Source. While lan‑
guage, terminology, and customs
differ, at the heart of all are prac‑
tices that connect our true
essence, the soul, with the higher
Power.
Saints, Masters, spiritual teach‑
ers, and enlightened beings, such
as Buddha, Jesus Christ,
Mahavira, Moses, Krishna, Rama,
Guru Nanak, Kabir, Maulana
Rumi, St.Teresa of Avila, Mira Bai,
Hazur Baba and many others
came to help connect people of
their times with the divine within
them.
To understand the role of saints
and Masters, there is a story
about a lion cub that became lost
(Image courtesy: stockphotos.ro)
from its mother. A mother sheep
found the lion cub frightened and
alone in the wilderness. Out of
compassion, the sheep took the
cub and raised her as her very
own. The cub grew up with the
other sheep and began acting like
them. Crying, “Baaah, baaah,” it
even began to believe it was also
a sheep.
One day, a lion came by and
thought it strange to hear this
young lion baaahing like a sheep.
The lion asked, “Why are you
making sounds like you are a
sheep?” The young lion said,
“Because I am a sheep.”
The lion said, “Come with me.” It
brought the young lion to a pool
of water. “Look down into the still
pool,” said the lion. When the
young lion looked down, it
jumped back startled to see a
lionʼs face staring back at it.”
“See! You are a lion,” the older
lion told him. “That is who you
really are.”
We are in the same predicament
as the lion. We think we are the
body and the mind. We do not
realize that we are soul.
We are not sheep; we are
lions̶true sons and daughters of
the Divine. The stillness of medi‑
tation is the reflecting pool in
which we can see who we really
TheSouthAsianTimes.info
are. When our body and mind are
still, we can see our own true self
as soul.
Meditation is a practical
method in which we can discover
our true self as soul and achieve
spiritual consciousness by reunit‑
ing our soul with the higher
Power. It is a way to discover our
true purpose in life and to reach
the goal of enlightenment in this
lifetime. In this way, we can
uncover who we really are and
can truly say that we know our‑
selves.
Enlightened
living
There is a quotation by the
great Greek philosopher, Socrates.
He said, “Our prayers should be
for blessings in general, for God
knows best what is good for us.”
This quote coincides with the
prayer to God to give us whatever
is good for us.
Time and again, whenever we
demand something from God that
is continually denied to us, it is
usually because we are asking for
something that is not good for us
ultimately.
There have been many
instances in which people prayed
to God for something, and God
did not grant their wish. Later
they came to learn that receiving
the wish would not have been a
good thing after all. Will a mother
allow the child to have poison?
The child may cry for it and
throw a tantrum, but if it is poi‑
son, the mother will not grant it.
Instead the mother will give the
child what is best for him or her.
The child may not realize it at the
time, but as the child grows and
learns, the child is grateful for all
the things the mother denied him
or her that were ultimately not
good.
Many people are anxious about
making choices. The way to be
sure we make the right choices
about what to pray for is to pray
that God gives us what is best for
us. God makes no mistake. Rather
than pray for something that may
or may not be the best for us, let
us pray for Godʼs will for us.
If we relax and rest in Godʼs
will, we will find that everything
works out for the best in the long
run. Meditation is a process of
relaxing in Godʼs will. Meditation
provides a time when we can let
go of all clutching and praying for
this thing and that. It is a time in
which we sit in a state of stillness
and surrender to Godʼs will. It is a
chance to let go of all our wants
and desires.
We merely sit in a receptive
mood and ask God to grant what
is best for us. We will find that
God will give us much more than
we had expected.That is the
secret to enlightened living.
Through meditation, we will
find the treasure of spiritual
pearls to enlightened living that
will bring us peace, happiness,
and bliss. God wants us to live in
eternal peace and bliss in the
spiritual realm.
The essence of
religion
Saints from every religion teach
the same truth. They help us find
the common elements in each.
They have love and respect for
other great saints and the world's
religions. They recognize that
they are teaching the same Truth.
Although outer languages, cul‑
tures, customs, and the way of
dressing and greeting may differ
from country to country, the
essence of religions is the same:
there is one God, we are children
of one Creator, and our purpose is
to know ourselves, know God, and
love all.
(For more visit www.sos.org)
TheSouthAsianTimes.info October 5-11, 2019

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