Indian

Indian August 7, 2009

Log on to www.iwk.co.nz Volume 1, No. 11
New Zealand’s first Indian weekend magazine
For free distribution

Religion and Tribute | 23 Master

Politics | 10 Paresh Rawal image-maker | 27
on Naseeruddin
Fiji and the Church Manohar Kulkarni
Shah

At a glance
Exports show India’s potential
Trade statistics released last week
show the increasing importance of
India as an export market for New
Zealand. Meanwhile, a leather indus-
try trade delegation is due here from
India. Page 4.

Hindu rituals for Jacko

The last rites of singer Michael
Jackson were performed in Kerala,
according to Hindu customs, presum-
ably to put his restless soul to rest
after reports that many people had
seen the singer’s ghost. Page 7

Who you calling Third World?

India’s corporate raiders splashed out
over $50 billion last year to acquire
some of the hallowed corporations
of the West. Sixty-two years after
independence, India is poised to be
the world’s single largest investor.
Page 14

Preity Zinta resurfaces

After a long vacation
in several countries,
the adorable star is
back. She talks can-
didly about her break
up, the terrible perfor-
mance of her Twenty20
team and how the media
took her for granted.
Page 25

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Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz 1

Indian
New business migrant scheme launched
The New Zealand government has launched a
new business migration scheme which aims to
boost economic performance by making New
Zealand more attractive for business and entre-
preneurial migrants.
Attracting the right business migrants was
identified as a high priority initiative at the recent
Job Summit and the new government scheme
has been announced by Economic Development
Minister Gerry Brownlee and Immigration Min-
ister Dr Jonathan Coleman.
“This fresh approach will ensure we bring
more investors, connect them with existing
business networks, and create real jobs for New
Zealanders,” Economic Development Minister
Gerry Brownlee said.
Announcing the new policy, Dr Coleman
said that since 2005 there has been a significant
drop off in business migration investment due to
unrealistic investment expectations and English
language requirements.
The new policy package is designed for mi-
grants who want to invest or set up a business in
New Zealand and gain permanent residence.
“For investor migrants the previously exist-
ing three categories are streamlined to two, with
more realistic requirements for capital, language
skills and time spent in New Zealand annually,
as well as a far greater flexibility in terms of in-
vestment vehicles,” he said.
For entrepreneurial migrants the new policy
2 Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz
introduces a new Entrepreneur Plus category,
which complements the existing Entrepreneur
category. Entrepreneur Plus offers a faster path
to residence for applicants who create at least 3
fulltime jobs and invest $500,000 in their busi-
ness.
The ministers used the launch of the re-
vamped scheme to score brownie points on the
failure of the Labour government to make the
business migration policy work. “The last gov-
ernment’s business migration policies have not
attracted investment. Since 2007, there have
only been 23 migrants brought to New Zealand
through Labour’s business migration policy.
Business migration needs to be urgently ad-
dressed, and stakeholders’ feedback has been
extremely positive regarding this new package,”
Dr Coleman said.
Jeremy Moon, who was a chair at the Prime
Minister’s Job Summit, and said the scheme was
a “win win”.
“Business leaders suggested this idea during
the Job Summit as something that could be
highly effective for little cost. I back the idea
because the more investment and entrepreneur-
ship we can get in New Zealand the better,” Mr
Moon said.
The new Investor policy came into effect on
July 28 and the Entrepreneur Policy will be ef-
fective from November this year.
See advertorial on page 20.
National party has a new president
new MAN in : John Key and Peter Goodfellow the new president during the conference
and (right) Alastair Bell was re-elected Northern Regional Chairman
Auckland businessman Peter Goodfellow is the
new president of the National Party. The National
Party’s board of directors elected him earlier this
week. Mr Goodfellow is a longtime member of
the National Party, and has been involved with the
party for many decades since the 1970s.
Speaking on TVNZ’s Q+A programme shortly
after his election as president, the Mr Goodfellow
said he wanted to use his long association with the
party and his commercial skills to “ensure that we
go into 2011 with a good headstart.”
He replaces Judy Kirk, who he said, “has left a
huge legacy and has achieved outstanding results
for the Party.” He said he was honoured to have
been elected and that he was looking forward to
carrying on the great work undertaken by Mrs
Kirk.
One of the primary roles of the party president
is to support the Prime Minister to ensure that the
board and the party are right behind him.
Asked if the party was facing a difficult times
with funding, Mr Goodfellow said that was not the
case but added that it was an expensive business
to run elections. Part of his role, he said, was to
ensure that the party was well funded for the next
campaign for elections in 2011.
“I am looking forward to working with such a
New Zealand
popular and inspirational Prime Minister as John
Key, as well as my fellow board members who I
would like to thank for their support,” he said.
“An important part of my job will be to get out
in the regions to meet with our members and en-
courage their feedback and I am keen to begin that
process as soon as possible.”
National Party delegates also voted three new
members on to the Board of Directors: Alastair
Bell, Kate Hazlett and Pat Seymour.
Alastair Bell who was recently re-elected
Northern Regional Chairman of the National
Party. Mr Bell, who is known to be hard working,
soft spoken and a good listener has substantial fol-
lowing and support from within the National Party.
He shares a close connection with the growing
ethnic population of New Zealand and is fully
aware of the importance of the support of these
groups.
He was a senior political advisor to former
Prime Minister Jenny Shipley.
He is known to have his ear close to the ground
and media reports suggest that he is the man to
watch as a rising star of the party.
Indian Weekender wishes him luck and con-
gratulates him on his elevation to the Party Board.
Indian
New Zealand
New Indian High Commissioner
Mobile Azaadi:
indianweekender.co.nz
Deepak Vohra, currently the Ambassador of
India to the African nation of Sudan, has been
appointed as the High Commissioner to New
Zealand, the Government of India has an-

goes mobile!
nounced.
Mr Vohra, who will be based at the Indian
High Commission in Wellington, is expected
to take up his assignment shortly. The post had
fallen vacant after the previous High Commis-
sioner Kadakath Pathrose Ernest finished his
tenure in April this year. You no longer need to be glued to your PC or laptop to access your favourite Kiwi Indian
Mr Vohra has earlier has held diplomatic website. On August 15, coinciding with India’s 62nd independence day, your favourite Kiwi
posts in several countries including in the Spanish capital Madrid and in Armenia. He was also Indian website, www.indianweekender.co.nz will be available for easy access on your smart
the joint secretary in the ministry of external affairs of the Indian government. He has, in the past, mobile phones.
been a TV personality and has hosted a popular breakfast TV show on Doordarshan. That’s mobile azaadi for you.
– Indian Weekender news desk The lite, fast-loading mobile version has been especially designed for readability on the
small screens of smart mobile phones. You will be able to access your favourite stories and

Indian filmmaker to shoot in Auckland

An Indian filmmaker, who has worked with some of the big names in
India’s movie scene, is set to embark on his first venture in New Zealand.
Sreeman Myadam, of Auckland, will start shooting for his short film,
yet to be titled, in Auckland on August 14-15.
Sreeman, who has been in New Zealand for one-and-a-half-years,
has worked as assistant to director Nagesh Kukunoor for Hyderbaad
Blues and with Posani Krishna Murali as assistant director for several
Kannada films.
The movie is about a young man who finds it difficult to move on with
his lonely life due to a tragic loss, when suddenly someone from his past
comes along to help him with his struggles.
The focus of the movie is hope and not to give up on life no matter
what, says Sreeman.
The short film is produced by Rahul Sirigiri of Link 2 Services (NZ) Ltd.
The cast includes: hero - Rakesh Rathee; second heroine - Sufia Ali; assistant director - Sufia.
Director/ screenplay: Sreeman Myadam. The actor for the heroine’s role is yet to be confirmed.
Sreeman says he hopes to launch the 15-minute movie in September after finalising the editing
process in India where he will also finalise a deal to direct a Bollywood movie (Hindi) with Lakshmi
Raja Films, India, produced by Kosaraju Rajendra Babu.
The script and cast for the Bollywood movie are yet to be finalised.
Sreeman, 28, says he hopes most of the shooting for his future project will involve Auckland.
Watch this space.
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Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz 3

Indian
New Zealand
Export figures show India’s growing importance PM launches
Trade statistics released last week by the Wel-
lington Regional Chamber of Commerce show
“It is highly likely that we will see further
growth in the trade and business relationship
New Zealand and other countries to establish a
Trans-Pacific free trade area.
‘Great Kiwi Invite’
the increasing importance of China and India as
export markets for New Zealand.
“China is now ahead of Japan as the third
with both these countries. The Free Trade
Agreement we signed with China last year is
now well established and New Zealand and
“The rise of China and India as global
traders will hopefully provide an impetus to
fast-track these negotiations.
tourism campaign
largest country of destination for exports, India have commenced their own FTA negotia- “New Zealand’s economic recovery is likely
behind Australia and the US. Exports to China tions. to be export-led and growth in exports will be Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism John
in the 12 months ending June were 62% higher “While the growing trading relationship what sustains New Zealand’s economic perfor- Key today launched a new campaign encourag-
than the previous year compared with a 7.5% with China and India is welcomed, we must not mance in the longer run. ing Kiwis to invite their overseas relatives and
increase for New Zealand’s exports overall,” neglect our traditional trading partners. These “The Chamber is keen to see exports in- friends to visit New Zealand.
head of the chamber Charles Finny said. include the US and Japan - the world’s first and crease their contribution to the Wellington re- The ‘Great Kiwi Invite’ campaign, run by
“Annual exports to India have doubled in second largest economies. gional economy and is part of a collaboration Tourism New Zealand, aims to increase the
the last twelve months. India is now our 13th “New Zealand and Japan have an investi- with EMA Central and Export New Zealand to number of visitors to the country at a time when
largest export market. In the previous year it gative study pending on the benefits of a free- help achieve this,” Mr Finny concluded. global economic conditions mean fewer people
wasn’t even in the top 20. trade deal and the US is in negotiations with - Indian Weekender news desk are travelling the world.
“New Zealanders are known as great travel-
lers, and as a result so many of us have connec-
tions overseas,” Mr Key said.
“Whether it’s friends, family or people we’ve
Indian leather product exporters coming to NZ met during our travels, I want to encourage
Kiwis to make contact with those people through
the new campaign and invite them to visit New
A delegation of 13 Indian leather products and footwear ex- imports increased by a tremendous US$110 million in just Zealand.”
porters is visiting New Zealand later this month. A buyer- five years, up from US$140 million in 2002 to US$250 New Zealanders will be able to go online
seller meet with the group and a chance to look at serious million in 2007. That’s growth of 11.5 percent a year, towww.thegreatkiwiinvite.co.nz and send a per-
business opportunities is being held at the Stamford Plaza and there’s more to come. The delegation arriving sonal animated invitation to someone overseas.
Hotel, Albert St, Auckland, on Monday, August 31. Registra- from India will have just completed similar deal- When the invitation is accepted, the person
tions will begin at 9am, and the event will run until 5pm. It ings in Australia are serious about doing business will go into a draw to win one of 15 trips for
will be followed by a cocktail function from 5pm to 7pm. with quality New Zealand partners. It is a great two to New Zealand, flying from any Air New
The event is organised by Wellington-based consultancy opportunity for NZ importers, exporters, retail Zealand port.
Global Village and is supported by the High Commission of shop owners, traders to attend the show and meet “Tourism is a major economic driver and has
India, New Zealand. the delegation face to face”. the potential to help get the country through the
New Zealand’s trade ties with India are on the upswing. For more information contact: Raga recession in good shape.
India is a huge economy and the two countries are coming D’silva
Director 

Global Village Unlimited 2007 “Kiwis can play a part in getting people to
closer to that Free Trade Agreement. This event is a chance Limited
+027 680 6557
raga@glo- visit New Zealand, boosting tourism numbers
for businesses from the two countries to write a part of that balvillageunlimited.com. Those and providing positive spin-offs for everything
emerging story early on – and do some serious and successful interested in meeting up with the from hotels and attractions to cafes and taxis,”
business, say the organisers. delegation and discussing business Mr Key said.
Raga D’silva, Director, Global Village Unlimited, a NZ opportunities can register at http:// The launch of the campaign comes as the
based consultancy that is managing the event for the Council www.globalvillageunlimited.com/ 100% Pure New Zealand campaign celebrates its
for Leather Exports, India, says “New Zealand’s leather events/clebsm/default.asp#register 10th anniversary.
- Indian Weekender news desk

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4 Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian
New Zealand

Council launches bond issue

Manukau Mayor Council comes into existence.
Len Brown says the “This is an exciting initiative, and provides
Manukau City Council a new opportunity for the wider community to
is launching a rare op- invest in the city’s growth and development in
portunity for ‘mum and the long term.”
dad’ retail investors to The offer will be open from 22 July to 30
invest in the city’s in- September 2009, and has a minimum investment
frastructure, through a for each series, of $10,000 and amounts of $1000
Bond Issue for up to $90 after that.
million. The bonds are secured over the rates of the
The council is taking city through a Debenture Trust Deed. They will
this step to diversify its funding sources and to have first ranking priority (except in limited
provide more funding certainty, Finance Direc- circumstances where the law may decide other-
tor Dave Foster says. wise), alongside other council debt secured under
“This funding will help us provide the assets, the trust deed.
services and facilities needed to shape Manukau A detailed description of the security, includ-
– and ultimately the greater Auckland region – ing the possible effect of the Auckland regional
for the benefit of our residents and businesses,” governance reorganisation on the security, is set
Mr Foster says. out in the Investment Statement.
The council has taken the formation of the BNZ Capital, a division of Bank of New
new Auckland Council into account when decid- Zealand, is the arranger of the bond issue.
ing on the bond issue and has approval from the The Investment Statement and the current
Auckland Transition Authority, given the bonds Rate Card are available from Manukau City
are for four and six years and therefore extend Council, BNZ Capital and Link Market Services.
beyond November 2010, when the Auckland – Indian Weekender news desk

Diwali short story competition launched

Asia:NZ/Cathay Pacific has announced a Diwali
short story competition which could win partici-
pants a trip for two to India!
The Diwali Festival of Lights -- one of India’s
best-loved festivals – celebrates its eighth anniver-
sary in Auckland and Wellington this October.
To mark the occasion, the Asia New Zealand
Foundation and Cathay Pacific invite you to test
your writing skills and be in to win a trip for two
to India.
The rules are simple – all you have to do is write
a short story of up to 800 words which includes the
following four words: “Diwali”, “homecoming”,
“lamington”, and “Cathay Pacific”.
There will be one national winner, whose name
will be announced at the Auckland Diwali Festival
of Lights, to be held on October 10-11 at the Eastern
Viaduct. (The Wellington Diwali Festival will be
held on October 18 at the TSB Bank Arena.)
Organised by Asia:NZ in partnership with
Auckland and Wellington City Councils, the Diwali
Festival is a celebration of the sights, sounds, fashion
and food of India.
Diwali, also known as Deepavali (literally “a
row of lamps”), is perhaps the most important and
ancient of the Indian festivals.
The rules are simple and some of them are:
• Your entry must be your own work and no
more than 800 words
• Your story must contain the following words:
“Diwali”; “homecoming”; “lamington”; and
“Cathay Pacific”.
• You must be 18 or over and resident in New
Zealand.
Your entries must be imaginative and stylish
writing.
The prize is an economy class return trip for two
to Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai or Bangalore, flying
Cathay Pacific.
For more information, email: communica-
tions@asianz.org.nz

New Local Format For The Warehouse

The Warehouse, New Zealand’s largest retailer now with 86 stores nationwide and its recently
launched online store, has opened its first smaller store format - The Warehouse Local - with plans to
roll out the regionalised concept nationwide.
The Warehouse chief executive, Ian Morrice, said his team is excited about the new offering, “We
have developed a solution to give more New Zealanders across the country better access to great
products, well known brands and of course low prices. The compact format of The Warehouse Local
enables us to do this and we plan to roll out around 15 local stores over the coming years.”
Morrice added, “The Warehouse Local delivers low prices, a wide range of products and services,
and convenient shopping to smaller town residents. The more compact store format offers a range of
top selling product categories including fashion, home and garden, music and DVDs, and household
consumables, tailored to the local customer needs. Research carried out with 600 residents of Mosgiel
determined the range and choice of products in this first store.”
On July 23 the company opened its first The Warehouse Local in Mosgiel, near Dunedin. The
store opening, and the jobs it has created, comes as a positive boost for the community after a year of
significant job losses.
The Warehouse has employed Dunedin locals to fill three of the six store management and super-
visor roles in its Mosgiel store, and all of the 22 service staff from the small community.

Manukau City Council supports new

hotel venture
Manukau Mayor Len Brown says a joint venture
to develop a new hotel at Auckland Airport in
time for the 2011 Rugby World Cup is positive for
the Manukau region.
Accor Hospitality, Tainui Group Holdings
and Auckland International Airport today signed
a deal to build a new 4-star, 260-room Novotel
hotel at Auckland Airport.
“Auckland Airport is a progressive company
and as a shareholder, our council sees this venture
as a significant opportunity for development of
the gateway to New Zealand,” says Mr Brown.
“We are going through some difficult eco-
nomic times and this venture presents remedy
to the recession by providing jobs particularly in
the construction sector.
“Tainui has important ties to our region, and
it is pleasing to note the significant investment
they are making in our city.
“This is an exciting initiative. The design and
architecture is elegant and will include subtle ref-
erences to New Zealand culture and heritage. It
will provide a unique experience for visitors.
“Manukau is the gateway to New Zealand and
this will add value for our region and for tourism
looking to the future. Manukau City Council is
supportive of this venture and we look forward
to working with the partners to see this project
through,” says Mr Brown.

Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz 5

Indian
Hillary Clinton visits
Mumbai, New Delhi
Mumbai: Former First Lady and US Secretary of
State Hillary Clinton began her first visit as an
American diplomat to India, with a stopover in
Mumbai. While in Mumbai she stayed at the tower
wing of the Taj Mahal Hotel, in a show of solidarity
to the victims of the November terror attacks.
Ahead of her visit, Clinton said president
Barack Obama’s administration was “going to do
everything we can to broaden and deepen our en-
gagement” with the UPA government.
Clinton had also said, “We are starting a strate-
gic dialogue between myself and the new minister
of external affairs.”
In Mumbai she interacted with various business
heads, visiting SEWA (Self Employed Women’s
Association), had an interactive session with
college students at St.Xaviers College, and paying
tributes to martyrs of the November terror attacks.
On Sunday she left for New Delhi. She held
meetings with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh,
External Affairs Minister S.M.Krishna, Chairper-
son of the ruling Congress Party Sonia Gandhi, and
the aging leader of the opposition L.K.Advani.
A major achievement of her visit was the
signing of the defence deal that would take a major
step towards allowing the sale of sophisticated U.S.
arms to India, senior U.S. officials said.
Known as an “end-use monitoring” agreement
and required by U.S. law for such weapons sales,
the pact would let Washington check that India was
using any arms for the purposes intended and was
preventing the technology from leaking to others.
Ms Clinton’s visit also highlighted two other
very important issues – climate change and terror-
ism, areas where both the countries don’t see eye
to eye.
6 Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz
India
Taregana shines in the eclipse
Patna: The solar eclipse on July 22, was one of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
longest in this century lasting 6 minutes 39 seconds. were there to watch the phenomenon.
It was visible across South East Asia and the Western The Bihar State Tourism Development Corpora-
Pacific. The eclipse was especially significant since it tion set up a special counter at Taregana to provide all
is happening in the International Year of Astronomy possible facilities. The departments concerned were
globally. assigned the tasks of setting up temporary public
Taregana, a little hamlet in the state of Bihar was toilets, repairing the road, providing round-the-clock
identified as one of the best places to view the eclipse. power supply as well as bringing out a pamphlet on
Taregana already has an ancient connection with as- the village.
tronomy, having been one of the two places used by India has taken special interest in this event, as
6th century Indian astronomer-mathematician Ary- the data gathered during the solar eclipse will form
abhata for his celestial studies. the basis of the launching of the new satellite ‘Aditya’
Hundreds of researchers, scientists, astrophysi- (meaning the sun in Sanskrit). The new satellite
cists and amateur astronomers converged on this would help study the sun and its effects on the earth’s
sleepy hamlet, which had geared up for the occasion weather.
by converting a school into a dormitory for visitors. Aditya which is expected to be launched in 2012,
Scientists from US space agency NASA, Britain, with a life expectancy of ten years, is billed as the
Italy, Germany, France, as well as from the Tata most advanced satellite since 1995.
Institute for Fundamental Research (TIFR) and the
Her meeting with Environment Minister Jairam
Ramesh was not hunky-dory as the minister out-
right rejected US suggestions that India should
accept worldwide legally binding caps on the pro-
duction of greenhouse gases. He was on the defen-
sive probably to preempt any binding to a possible
successor to the Kyoto Protocol being drawn up at
the Copenhagen Climate Conference in December.
In her talks with Dr.Manmohan Singh, Clinton
has extended an invitation for him to make a state
visit to Washington on November 24, a State De-
partment official said.
The official also added that Dr. Singh would be
the first foreign leader to make a state visit under
U.S. President Barack Obama, another mark of the
relationship’s importance to the United States.
Clinton also addressed students of Delhi Uni-
versity during which she said that combating ter-
rorism and extremism was the number one chal-
lenge for all countries, and that this issue should be
tackled in a democratic manner.
- All India stories by India correspondent,
Shobha Rao
Indian
briefs India loses three great women who
Cheating students, forgiving judge
New Delhi: A metropolitan magistrate in New Delhi acquitted all 33 students who were
caught cheating in an examination. The reason: he did not want to ruin the careers of the
were legends in their lifetimes
youngsters, all of whom are in their early twenties. Mumbai: Last week saw the passing away of three
The college authorities had called in the CBI, when all 33 had submitted identical talented women who had each carved a niche for
answer sheets and had scored similar marks. The students were accused of receiving themselves in their fields.
answers on their mobile phones, while taking an exam at the Delhi Engineering College in Gangubai Hangal
2005. Gangubai Hangal, doyen of Hindustani vocal
The magistrate stated that they were all an age where “their capacity for understand- music of the Kirana Gharana passed away on
ing is still developing. I do not see any positive impact by sentencing these youngsters,” 21July Tuesday at Hubli, Karnataka. She was 97
he said. years old, and had been suffering from chest con-
Instead he pulled up the young people’s parents for failing to instil the right values in gestion and related complications.
them. “These parents do not have faith in fair means and the fairness of the system,” he Gangubai who mesmerized audiences with her
noted. melodious voice, was born to a celebrated vocal-
ist of carnatic music. She learned classical music
from Krishnacharya and Dattopant Desai. Later,
Hindu rituals for Michael Jackson she studied music under Sawai Gandharva.
Thiruananthapuram: The last rites of singer Michael Jackson were performed on the Diagnosed with bone cancer in 2002, she
banks of the Nila river in Kerala, according to Hindu customs, presumably to put his rest- battled the disease with her never-say-die attitude
less soul to rest after reports that many people had seen the singer’s ghost. and continued to teach music to students who
A group of three US nationals performed the rites at the Nava Mukunda temple on the came to her from all parts of the country.
new moon day of the Malayalam month of Karkkadakam, which fell on July 20 this year. It She was honoured with many international and
is one of the holy days on which people in Kerala perform rituals for the dead. national awards including the Karnataka Sangeet
The American trio who claim to be Hindu converts, took part in the twenty minute ritual Nritya Academy Award in 1962, Padma Bhushan
after taking a dip in the holy river amidst the chanting of Sanskrit shlokas. in 1971, Padma Vibhushan in 2002, Sangeet Natak
Akademi Award in 1973.
Leela Naidu
First women in Border Security Force Leela Naidu, actress who was once listed by
Chandigarh: The Kharkan camp of the Border Security Force (BSF), 15 km from this Pun- Vogue magazine as one of the 10 most beautiful
jab town, saw history being made on its passing out parade, as it inducted 178 women women in the world passed away on 28 July at
constables into its ranks, so far which had been the sole reserve of men cadets only.
Mumbai following a prolonged illness. She was
69.
In addition to their rigorous 36-month training the new recruits will be given an addi-
Born to an Irish mother and an Indian father,
tional two week specialised advanced combat training before they take up their assign-
Leela Naidu was crowned Miss India in 1954. Her
ment along the 553-km-long fenced India-Pakistan border in Punjab. The recruits will be
chiseled features made her a classical beauty and
the first women to be deployed along the international border.
she made her film debut in 1960 with director Hri-
Home Minister P. Chidambaram specially flew in to take the salute of the new recruits
shikesh Mukerjee’s Anuradha. The film didn’t do
of the BSF.
well at the box office, but got the National Award
“It is a great privilege to be here. There are many constables in the country but no one
for best film and a nomination for the Golden Bear
can take away from you the special pride, as you are the first batch of women constables at the Berlin Film Festival, 1961. and she got criti-
in the BSF. You all have an important role to play,” Chidambaram told the proud women cal acclaim.
recruits. Leela had not done large body of work but is
remembered for her unorthodox roles in films like
Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz
India
Yeh Raaste Hain Pyar Ke (1963), based on the
famous K M Nanavati vs. State of Maharashtra
court case. In the same year, she was offered a
role in the first Merchant Ivory Production “The
Householder”, which was directed by James Ivory.
After marriage to Biki Oberoi of the Oberoi
hotel group she settled for matrimony, before re-
turning to films with Shyam Benegal’s Trikaal
in the late 80s. She later divorced Oberoi and
married literateur Dom Moraes.
Film maker Shyam Benegal reminisces “she
was the most gorgeous woman and an absolutely
wonderful human being’” while journalist Jerry
Pinto who has written a book on Naidu describes
her as a lady with grace and impeccable manners.
Maharani Gayatri Devi
Maharani Gayatri Devi, 90, died last Wednes-
day at the Ja hospital in Jaipur after persistent
breathing problems.
Known to her friends as “Ayesha”, the young
Maharani caused a minor sensation in India when,
in 1940, she married for love rather than by paren-
tal decree, to become the third wife of the dashing
Maharaja of Jaipur.
In 1962 she created a very different sensation
when, as the Republic of India’s first princess
to stand for parliament, she won her seat by the
largest landslide ever recorded. A decade later she
won international sympathy when she was impris-
oned for six months during the period of Indira
Gandhi’s notorious State of Emergency.
Princess Gayatri Devi was born in London on
May 23 1919, the fourth child of the ruler of Cooch
Behar State in eastern India.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh mourned
the death of Gayatri Devi, the erstwhile maha-
rani of Jaipur who was once considered one of the
world’s most beautiful women, and called her a
close friend and an exceptional human being.
- Shobha Rao
7
Indian

8 Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian
‘Kerekere’ bad for Fijian Fiji’s leader unflinching in face
business, says Professor of Commonwealth threat
Suva: The Fijian traditional system of ‘ker-
ekere’ or borrowing is being blamed as one of
the reasons why small village-based farming
efforts do not succeed commercially, reports
Fiji Live.
In a paper presented at the recent Fiji Eco-
nomic Update, held at the University of the
South Pacific in Suva, Professor Ron Duncan
of the National Australian University said the
‘kerekere’ system posed difficulties in the vi-
ability of indigenous farming businesses estab-
lished within Fijian villages.
‘Kerekere’ is the Fijian custom of borrowing
from kinsmen. It is shameful for a Fijian not
to give something that is asked for within the
‘kerekere’ system.
“Attempts to overcome this difficulty
through the formation of joint-management
groups within the village do not appear to have
been successful, as they have proven prone to
governance problems,” Duncan said.
“There is still belief in some quarters in the
viability of village cooperatives, but experi-
ence is such as to not inspire much confidence
in this form of enterprise.”
Professor Duncan’s paper discussed the
failure of agricultural policymaking in Fiji.
It paid much attention to prevalent govern-
ment policy support and focus on state-driven
large-scale commercial agricultural enterpris-
es which often left out small scale agricultural
activities in Fijian villages.
“The poor policies and projects that have
been implemented by various governments
appear to have their roots in poor understand-
Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz
ing of the economic, cultural and social envi-
ronment in which they are to be implemented,”
Duncan said.
He said small village commercial efforts
would need to reach a point of effective man-
agement and control before they could realise
commercial success.
“Experience of management groups among
Maori tribes in New Zealand has seen greater
success, where the need to ensure good gover-
nance and efficient management groups struc-
tures seems to have been realized.
“Until this point is reached in Fiji, joint ven-
tures between villagers and non-indigenous
entrepreneurs might offer a better means of
‘quarantining’ village businesses from onerous
cultural and social obligations,” Mr Duncan
said.
www.pacificbusinessonline.com
Fiji
Suva: Fiji’s leader Commodore Frank Bainima-
rama says the warning by the Commonwealth
Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) to suspend
Fiji will not distract him from the roadmap he
has outlined for the country.
Commodore Bainimarama told FijiLive that
he was not moved at all.
“People have tried to change us from the
last 18 months but what we have set out to do,
will not change,” he said. However, he said the
government has not received any letter from the
CMAG to inform him of their decision.
The Commonwealth renewed a warning to
Fiji yesterday that it would be suspended from
the grouping in September, if it failed to commit
to holding new elections by next year following
the 2006 coup.
In March, the Commonwealth gave Fiji a
six-month deadline to restore democracy, three
years after military leader Bainimarama over-
threw the elected government. wealth ministerial meetings due to the coup. The
In a statement agreed after seven hours of action came after Bainimarama ignored a dead-
talks, ministers called for Fiji to inform it in line to hold elections by March this year.
writing by 01 September that it would hold elec- Commodore Bainimarama has since issued
tions by October 2010. ”In the absence of such a roadmap to elections in 2014, which includes
confirmation, Fiji will be fully suspended on that a new constitution that assures racial equality
date,” they said. and reforms that will address the country’s coup
There had been some signs that the CMAG culture. If full membership were suspended,
would agree to suspend Fiji immediately, but the technical aid such as training that it still receives
nine-member group has to agree by consensus, from its fellow countries would also be halted.
meaning any one country can block a decision. The Commonwealth, a grouping of 53 former
Informed sources told AFP the ministerial British colonies, dependencies and other territo-
group was split down the middle, with countries ries, suspended Zimbabwe in 2002, but President
including New Zealand in favour of suspension, Robert Mugabe then unilaterally withdrew. It has
but others including Malaysia, which chairs the twice suspended Pakistan.
CMAG, against. - www.pacificbusinessonline.com
Fiji has already been banned from Common-
9
Indian
The Fijian Church Connection
Subhash Appana
The latest political crisis to hit Fiji involves a
monumental face-off between the military on
one side and the Methodist Church, fronted
by paramount chief Ro Teimumu Kepa, on the
other. Many here will be wondering and dan-
gerously speculating about the potential fallout
from this unseemly fracas. This article attempts
to discuss some of the main issues involved in
traditional Fijian politics that have surfaced in
this case.
It is no secret that what is seen as the tradi-
tional Fijian system is predicated on 3 pedestals:
the lotu, matanitu and vanua (church, govern-
ment and a social-cosmological morph). The
concept of vanua is often misunderstood and
misused by opportunists especially in the politi-
cal domain.
Renowned academic Steven Ratuva says the
term vanua refers to a conglomeration of three
forms of inter-relationships: the territorial sphere
(qele), social kinship (veiwekani) and the cos-
mological dimension (yavutu and vu) (Ratuva,
Suva, April 2, 2002). That’s the best attempt at
defining this nebulous concept, which also un-
derpins the Bainimarama-Methodist rift in Fiji.
The lotu (church) is very much a part of Fijian
life. Its original spiritual role was modified by
early missionaries to educate the “natives”
to conform to a “civilized” way of life. This
social role was later complemented with the
soli and fund-raising, so that the church’s eco-
nomic agenda could be met. And as enlighten-
ment dawned on the political significance of
the church, pastors joined the queue to political
prominence.
The matanitu, on the other hand, encom-
10
Viewpoint
passed governance and government. At the true democracies. The patronage of the pastors Kepa, the Roko Tui Dreketi. She was still smart-
centre of this concept lay the traditional chief and became so important that they began to be re- ing from her ouster from government, and made
the chiefly system. Fijian confusion and politi- warded with plum political positions. for a highly useful ally as the forthcoming annual
cal instability can be largely explained through Manasa Lasaro and Tomasi Kanailagi, church conference had been strategically sched-
the fact that Fijian chiefs no longer run central two powerful former heads of Fiji’s Methodist uled to be hosted by her village, Lomanikoro.
government as envisaged by the architects of Church, were recipients of such gifts. These are The aim was to use the resilient lotu/matani-
newly-independent Fiji. The Fijian has had diffi- the two men who Bainimarama wants removed tu link to daunt the Commodore. It failed, and
culties separating matanitu from central govern- from the church scene as they played key roles Bainimarama remained resolute. In an interest-
ment. That’s why it has been so easy to mobilize in openly politicizing the church. Bainimarama ing twist, the Vunivalu of Rewa, traditionally the
Fijians to topple democratic governments. also sees them as potential rallying points for a main bulwark of the Roko Tui Dreketi, declared,
The lotu and matanitu that had once been groundswell against his regime. “It is time for the vanua, church and the matanitu
complementary forces became one after the Lasaro was a key figure in the coup of 1987 to draw their own respective lines across which
1987 coup. Rabuka central- and Kanailagi rallied the the other two must never encroach” (FT 27/7/09).
ized the role of the Methodist As power politics began clergy behind Speight- He tried to minimize the significance of his
church and Manasa Lasaro supporters in 2000. He was apparent opposition to the stance taken by his
in particular to cushion his to be played out ruthlessly a key man in the Qarase paramount chief by adding, “In the process of
precarious post-coup hold government. Further- involving the vanua, members of the Methodist
on power. It was Lasaro who using the lotu and matanitu, more, Lasaro executed a Church and political party leaders managed to
led the infamous Sunday there were many disciples coup within the Methodist drag the Roko Tui Dreketi into the fray in a vain
Ban campaign. The church church in 1989 and alleg- attempt to change the government’s stand on the
thus became an integral part who watched and learnt edly followed that up with cancelled Methodist conference.”
of national politics and gov- with heightened personal a high-command support- Attempts to delink the lotu from the matanitu
ernment. ed attempt to brutalize his continue, but the fallout would be difficult to
As power politics began ambitions. foe at his farm in Pacific predict. Should the church be separated from
to be played out ruthlessly Harbour. That is the other the government? Why? How will this affect the
using the lotu and matanitu, there were many outstanding reconciliation within the haloed vanua and does the changing vanua need further
disciples who watched and learnt with height- halls of the church. changes to assist Fijians in a rapidly chang-
ened personal ambitions. It is no secret that an Bainimarama is concerned about the distort- ing environment? These are questions that Fiji
aspiring Fijian politician had to have the active ing role played by the church in politics, hence is grappling with. And the answers might be
support of his church as there is no better mo- his demand to remove the 2 pastors from the divinely inspired, but they will need genuine
bilizing point given the religiosity of the Fijian hierarchy. The church high command disagreed human effort to deliver.
polity. and attempted to rope in the traditional matanitu The opinions contained here are Subhash
Pumping the pulpit and beseeching divine as the central government was unexpectedly un- Appana’s own and not necessarily shared by any
assistance does help churn up adrenalin and accommodating. organizations that he may be affiliated with, both
channel minds towards votes that are mark- Its wily strategists obtained the support of here and overseas.
edly different from the informed choice vote of the highest chief in Fiji at present, Ro Teimumu - Email: subhasha@ais.ac.nz
Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz
Indian
Fiji

Tourism a key player
in

Fiji economy

Suva: Fiji’s economic performance is linked to the tourism industry, ANZ Bank’s general manager for
Fiji Robert Bell said. Tourism was an important foreign exchange earner for Fiji, which contributes
to foreign reserves. Mr Bell made the comments while handing over a cheque to the Tourism Forum
organising committee. He said it was also one of the largest employers and developers for local staff.
“The current operators have also proven to be very resourceful and resilient despite difficult local
and global conditions over the last three years,” he said. “ANZ through its tourism specialist team has
been a long term supporter of tourism in Fiji and around the Pacific.
“Tourism will remain one of the key ANZ focus going forward.” ANZ Bank became the major
sponsor for the Fiji Tourism Forum to be held on August 14 at the Intercontinental Fiji Golf Resort
& Spa.
Mr Bell said ANZ believed significant growth could come from further tourism development and
marketing. Forum planning committee chairman Damend Gounder said that this years’ Forum was
probably the most important of recent times as the industry had to discuss and determine strategies
for a very challenging economic and competitive environment.
“Destination Fiji still maintains its flavour within our source markets, however, as the industry
looks for consolidation and growth the leaders within the tourism industry will need to suggest new
ways of moving forward,” he said.
Meanwhile, Tourism Fiji in co-operation with the Fiji Islands Backpackers Association has de-
clared August as Backpackers/Flashpackers Month. This initiative will be supported by extensive
advertising and promotion in key markets Australia and New Zealand.
Air Pacific will take part with attractive airfares for this growing youth market. The recent 20%
devaluation of Fiji dollars provides a unique opportunity to encourage tourists to the Pacific’s most
popular destination.
www.pacificbusinessonline.com/ South-pacific.travel

USP costs drop $6m

Suva: Cutbacks made to the faculty and
units at the University of the South Pacific
(USP) have enabled the institution to save
$5.4million (US$2..6 million), reports Fiji
Times.
USP vice-chancellor Professor Rajesh
Chandra said the strategy has been helpful
because the university ended the year with an
operational surplus.
He said he was hoping to have an opera-
tional surplus of about $6million (US$2.9
million) this year.
“The approach taken has been to ensure
that there are fundamental changes to our
structure, process and activities so that the
university becomes more sustainable for the
future,” said Professor Chandra.
He said the university would continue to
reform its systems and process.
“Various reviews are being made and we
should know as a result of the reviews, what
further changes are needed,” he said.
The academic said there were plans to
make major changes to our academic pro-
grams, converting them to credit points,
sharing more common courses, introduc-
ing four new generic courses, changing the
names of some programs and put more em-
phasis on flexible learning and teaching.
“The university now has a new strategic
plan.
“As part of that, significant improvements
are being made to improve the quality of
learning and teaching through better facili-
ties.
“The USP bandwidth, for instance is
being increased,” said Professor Chandra.
www.pacificbusinessonline.com

Air Pacific unveils new route

Nadi: Fiji national carrier Air Pacific managing director John Campbell has announced it will intro-
duce a new service between Apia, Samoa and Honolulu starting in September. The flight will begin
operation on September 11 with Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Mr Campbell said the new flight will add a
third weekly Apia-Nadi service and will make travel throughout the South Pacific easier.
“For Samoans, access to Honolulu and the mainland United States will now be more affordable
and convenient,” he said. “Air Pacific’s flights to Apia have been successful and the extension to
Honolulu is important for both business and leisure travelers. “We have a substantial presence in the
region and are happy to be able to increase our services to Samoa.”
The new service will have eight seats in Tabua Business Class and 152 in Pacific Voyagers Class.
The route between Fiji and Samoa serves as an important link for government, business and students,
as well as serving the tourism industry in the Pacific Islands.
Mr Campbell added the northbound schedule for the new flights provides excellent connections
from Sydney, Brisbane, Auckland, Tonga and Suva. The southbound flights will provide easy con-
nections back to Suva. Air Pacific also operates non-stop flights from Nadi to Apia on Sundays and
Tuesdays and from Nadi to Honolulu on Sundays.
www.pacificbusinessonline.com

Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz 11

 Indian
Indian
Message & Letters
Indian Independence Day message from
Hon. John Key, Prime Minister of New Zealand
Dev’s View
I hope you and your family enjoy celebrating Indian Independence
Day. As well as being an important day in Indian history, it’s also
a chance to recognise our growing links with India, and the con-
tribution Indian New Zealanders make to New Zealand.
Our country is an increasingly diverse and vibrant nation and
the National-led Government wants all New Zealanders to play a
part in our communities.
I value the strong relationship that National has with our Indian
communities. We are working hard to ensure your voice is heard
at the highest levels of Government.
We have listened to your concerns about law and order and
have acted. We are taking a number of steps to make our neighbourhoods and communities
safer. This includes putting 600 more police on the beat, equipping all police districts with
tasers, and putting victims first with the Offenders Levy. We are also introducing tougher
sentencing, parole, and bail laws.
We are ensuring you have better access to healthcare, which is why we’re putting more
funding into frontline health services. Shortly we will begin building new elective-surgery
super centres to reduce hospital waiting lists. And we are signing up the first graduate health
professionals to our voluntary bonding scheme to get more doctors, nurses, and midwives
working in hard-to-staff areas.
We want to help your children climb the ladder of opportunity. We are introducing Na-
tional Education Standards to ensure every child learns to read, write and do maths and that
their progress is reported to parents in plain English. We have also launched a $152 million
From the Editor Youth Opportunities Package to help 16- to -24-year-olds get the work experience, training,
and education opportunities they need to develop themselves and make the most of their
Shadow of terror at our doorstep future.
New Zealand is building stronger ties with our Asian neighbours. National recognises the
Those of us who have lived in India or for that matter anywhere in South Asia in the important role India plays in the Asian region as an emerging economic superpower and the
past two decades are all too familiar with rigorous security routines at airports, railway opportunities this presents for us.
stations and many public places, despite which terrorists have struck time and again The National-led Government is about to start negotiations with India on a proposed Free
with impunity. Trade Agreement (FTA). An FTA with India would allow Kiwi and Indian businesses to build
So far, perhaps Australasia is the only continent that has remained free of the fears stronger trade and investment relationships.
of terrorism though the presence of ragtag outfits has been suspected in Australia over I am ambitious for New Zealand and its future. Our country is a strong, diverse, and
the past few years. Last week’s raids in Australia on suspected terror cells, however, vibrant nation and National is committed to making it a better place for you and your families
have sought to confirm those fears. to live, work, and celebrate the good things in life – such as Indian Independence Day.
Our geographic isolation and relative low profile in world affairs no longer guaran-
tee of our safety. With increased vigilance in countries where they have been active so
far, it is natural that terror organisations will look at newer theatres of action such as Brotherly love from beyond I was lost in this world when my mother passed
away and it is Ashish who showed me the right
Australia and New Zealand where the guard has always been low. After all, what terror I just happened to read the article “Broth- path towards love and light. She is a lady who
organisations look for is grabbing world headlines to spread their terror. Australasia erly Love From Beyond” on-line in the Indian means a lot to me and I always look upon her
and the Pacific Islands are sitting ducks for their increasingly sophisticated operations. Weekender. I would like to share the following for guidance. She is a very humble and a noble
Our safety, therefore, can no longer be taken for granted. The terror cells across thoughts about Ashish whom I have known for person and always willing to help people in times
the Tasman allegedly had plans to attack Australian military installations presumably over two years. Ashish Mehta radiates inner of need. I am very grateful to her for giving light
because of Australia’s involvement in Iraq and in fighting fundamentalist ideology-led strength and composure more than anything in my life and teaching me to go with the flow.
forces in Afghanistan-Pakistan. else. She does not feel proud to be one chosen - Mahiyar, Wellington
If Australia’s involvement in the Afghan conflict won the terror cells there a ‘ fatwa’ to pass on messages from the Higher Realms to
from their overseas masters to carry out attacks on Australian soil, it is not impossible those on the earthly plane. She always maintains
that all those who send messages from beyond Immigration and help for SMEs
that we in New Zealand could also be in their crosshairs – especially since our govern-
send love more than anything else. I feel that Current environment for the persons on work
ment has now committed our armed forces for missions in Afghanistan. this is something that needs to be emphasised. permit or in the process applying for a work
At the risk of sounding alarmist, it is important to say that we in the region need to More so in the world of today where persons permit is not promising at all. I operate a busi-
step up our alertness to security matters now more than at any other time: last week’s have totally forgotten to give the most important ness close to the Wellington Immigration office
events in Australia show that the shadow of terror is well and truly at our doorstep. thing that their family members and friends need and come across many astonishing stories of
– a sense of being loved, knowing that you are people who have been employed and are on a
being loved, appreciated and cared for. It is also work permit but have been refused a renewal as
worthwhile to note that though her sojourn with the NZIS aims to send back the persons with work
This week a former New Zealand Member of Parliament was convicted on bribery and auto-writing started subsequent to her brother’s permits and force the employers to recruit locals.
corruption charges. The event has widely been seen as a blot on the country’s squeaky- demise, she does not receive messages directly - A Sheriffdeen
clean image that has earned it the second spot in the global Corruption Perceptions from him. Her link is with the Spiritual Masters
at a Higher Plane. Hence, I feel that the mes-
Index. Though a third of India’s MPs have serious criminal charges slapped against sages would be useful not only to her immedi- Why the Greeks never came back to India
them, one almost never comes across a conviction. Small wonder, then, that India ranks ate family, but for mankind in general. Ashish
85th in the index. Numerous studies have shown the direct link between corruption always maintains that ultimately one has to go Alexander invaded but couldn’t even dream of
and the unequal distribution of wealth. India is a prime example (see accompanying through whatever is destined because of ‘karma’ conquering the vast country. Excellent research
comment). That’s food for thought on the eve of the country’s 62nd Independence Day. from past lives, however much one may pray or work it logically concludes as to why the Mace-
however much spiritual knowledge one may donians didn’t continue their warfare in India.
acquire. I am grateful to God Almighty that He Fear of the larger kingdoms in the interior of the
has led me to someone like Ashish from whom I country held Greeks in terror and they beat a
receive guidance and encouragement. hasty retreat, more so when a small kingdom put
Indian Weekender Volume 1 No 11 such a brave fight and almost killed Alexander.
Publisher: Kiwi Media Group Limited - Shahrukh Tata But for the promise from Puru history would
Group editor-in-chief: Dev Nadkarni dev@indianweekender.co.nz have been different, in fact it is, but biased histo-
Online editor: Arvind Kumar arvind@indianweekender.co.nz rians and filmmakers subvert the truth.
India Correspondent: Shobha Rao shobha@indianweekender.co.nz - HK
Chief Technical Officer: Rohan Desouza rohan@ indianweekender.co.nz
Design: Tanmay Desai desaidesign@gmail.com / www.desaign.co.nz
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12 Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian
India’s stark contrasts will linger for decades
dev nadkarni
The lumbering Indian elephant’s amble has picked up great momentum these past few years. But the deadweight of
a decades old socialist legacy – red tape and corruption – have remained a drag. It will be years, perhaps decades,
before the fruit of progress and development reaches the country’s bottom rung.
Up until the mid 1980s, the western world firmly
believed that India had missed the bus. Compared
with the scorching growth rates achieved year after
spectacular year by the Pacific Rim countries – col-
lectively called the Asian Tigers – India seemed an
utterly slothful behemoth that had failed to reform
its age-old thinking on all fronts. It was dubbed
‘the slumbering elephant’ and the question that was
asked by economists and academics at all forums
concerning India was ‘Can the elephant dance?’
Just about two decades after the first economic
reforms were ushered in by then finance minister Dr.
Manmohan Singh, the slumbering elephant not just
began to dance – it was on a roll, determined to close
the gap with the tigers. Investment pundits began
to make fortunes not just investing in the country’s
booming stock markets but also writing books on
‘how to ride the elephant’.
India today is among the 15 wealthiest nations
in the world and the world’s second fastest growing
economy.
In many statistical indices, India has already left
some of the Tigers far behind. So, it is no longer the
Asian Tigers that are the yardstick of comparison for
India today: no discourse about India is complete
without comparing its achievements with those of
China, which has had a nearly two decade head start
on the road to economic reforms – and more recent-
ly, Brazil and Russia (the four now acronymed as the
BRIC quartet).
But there are a few important differentiators that
set India apart: for one, India is the world’s largest
democracy with most of its institutions – particularly
a robust legal system and a free media – functioning
in a manner the rest of the world understands and can
deal with. Second, it has a rapidly growing middle
class that almost equals the entire population of the
US. Third, despite long decades of stifling bureau-
cracy, it has a very nimble and highly resourceful
entrepreneurial class, and lastly, it has a large popu-
lation of English-speaking, trainable, technically
qualified workforce used to working in the most de-
manding of conditions.
Indeed it is this last differentiator that has brought
the world to India’s door for information technology
Children can save Fiji – if we give them the right tools
Padmini Gaunder
Wiping out communalism from schools is a
job the interim government can and should
do. The 1969 Education Commission rec-
ommended this but the elected governments
hesitated to do this for fear of antagonising the
communal organisations involved and thereby losing
their electoral support. So after 40 years there are
few government schools and communalism persists
as the voluntary agencies run most of the schools.
This stands in the way of integration.
The 1969 commission recommended govern-
ment takeover of these communal schools and at in-
dependence the government had a plan to take them
over. But free education was made an election issue
by the National Federation Party in 1972 and after
that the government decided to gradually abolish
fees and takeover of communal schools was forgot-
ten. Nobody questioned the government on this im-
portant policy change.
Some of the voluntary organisations would not
agree to give up control of their schools to the Min-
istry of Education even if the government threatened
to stop grants. One good example is the Roman
Catholic Mission, which has been refusing to have
non-Catholic teachers in positions of responsibil-
ity. Another example I can think of is the Satya Sai
Organisation, which has recently started a school in
Lovu near Lautoka. It imparts value-based education
and also teach Fijian and Hindi to all children. I am
sure they would not want to give up their control at
any cost.
Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz
related services. India has registered blitzing growth
in the technology sector with every major global
player having some sort of presence in there. India’s
technology sector brand equity and image has grown
so strong that it is considered a corporate necessity to
have an India strategy. Employees at global financial
and technological majors are vying for stints in India
as something to bandy about in their CV.
That growing inflow of expatriates seems to be
matched with the number of Indian entities going
out into the world acquiring businesses in the US,
Europe, South East Asia, Africa and even Oceania.
While Indian IT firms have been acquiring technol-
ogy set-ups around the world for some years now,
pharmaceutical, telecom, steel and infrastructure
companies are leading the new brigade of Indian
companies going overseas on acquisition sprees (see
Rakesh Krishnan’s accompanying article).
Perhaps the best showpiece of the reforms
process is the incredible growth in India’s telecom
sector – an excellent testament to what the opening
of markets, deregulation and dismantling of over-
weening governmental control can achieve. From
being one of the most-controlled telecom regimes in
the world, India has turned itself into one of the most
liberal markets with the cheapest cellular and fixed
line call rates anywhere – all in a matter of just half
a decade.
India’s pace of growth would have been faster
had it been matched with the growth in its infrastruc-
ture. A woeful lack of investment in infrastructure
over the decades since independence by successive
governments, that were beholden to archaic socialist
principles proved a gigantic obstacle in its path. With
all-round reforms in the past ten years, the country
has sought to correct this with speedy implementa-
tion of projects throughout the country, but it still has
a long way to go.
Power generation, freight handling capacity,
airports, urban infrastructure, water and sanitation
are all struggling to keep up with India’s high paced
economic growth rate, having suffered decades of
utter neglect. There is so much catching up to do
that Indian leaders are under tremendous pressure to
fob off any attempts by the international community
On the other hand the Methodist Church had
offered to hand over all its village schools to the
government in the 1930s. It was the then director of
education, James Russell, who refused to take over
these schools, resulting in their being handed over
to local committees when the mission relinquished
control. This led to a deterioration in standards,
which contributed to the Fijian education problem of
later years. The village schools no longer provided a
sound base for the children’s education as they used
to do under the mission.
The 1969commission saw education as the foun-
dation for building an integrated Fiji. It made rec-
ommendations with this in mind. The foremost rec-
ommendation was wiping out communalism from
schools via the gradual abolition of the voluntary
system by having more government schools. The
government decided to take over communal schools
if the committee that ran the school was agreeable to
the takeover. It also decided to amalgamate schools
wherever there was duplication.
Although there was no objection raised when the
government made these announcements, there was
no support for such policies, especially from the vol-
untary agencies which ran the schools. No one came
forward to request government takeover unlike in
the 1930s, for instance, when the Indian leaders were
constantly demanding government takeover. So the
voluntary system continued, with communalism
getting more and more entrenched.
Perhaps now is the time to have more government
to get India to toe the line on global environmental
regimes that have to do with carbon emissions.
Yet, the economic fruit brought in by all that im-
pressive growth of the past decade have been slow to
percolate down to the lower rungs of India’s complex
societal ladder. Grinding poverty and hunger, poor
healthcare, a growing HIV/AIDS problem (the
country has the second highest population with that
syndrome), child labour, illiteracy, besides other
developmental problems continue to plague poorer
sections of society, though statistics show that more
of the ‘poor’ are graduating to ‘middle class’ every
year.
Despite the country’s murky politics and notori-
ously corrupt polity and bureaucracy, over the years,
subsequent elections have demonstrated the Indian
population’s innate capacity for self-correction. It
has brought down governments with the same élan
and fervour that it has elected them, earning it plau-
dits as a fast maturing democracy, in spite of its
massive problems – many of them systemic.
But the geopolitics of the South Asian region has
made increasingly challenging demands on both
India’s polity and economic development. Over the
past 20 years or so it has suffered repeatedly at the
hands of global terrorism.
Because of its large population, India ranks low
in most global economic and developmental indices.
It may be the world’s twelfth wealthiest nation, but it
trails even comparatively tiny Pacific islands nations
like Fiji, Samoa and Tonga in the human develop-
ment index rankings. Any achievements that India
makes are rendered meaningless simply because of
its inordinately large population that forms its de-
nominator.
India’s former scientist-President A.P.J. Abdul
Kalam came up with a strategy to change all that by
the year 2020. He presented a blueprint to the gov-
ernment about turning the country into a developed
nation in the next eleven or so years. By all indicators,
India seems to be on the right track – but whether it
will achieve that lofty ideal by 2020 almost entirely
depends on the one commodity that has always been
in great short supply: the political will to weed out
corruption and work for the greater national good.
involvement in schools and abolish the voluntary
system and put an end to communalism in schools.
Although there will be initial resistance, once it is
done there will be support for such a policy as it will
reduce the cost of education to the parents. From
1973 there has been fee free education in primary
schools but the cost of education has steadily gone
up. The committees that ran schools found various
other ways of extracting money from the parents –
for example, building fees, library fees, sports fees
etc.
More government involvement would also make
it easier to introduce policies like teaching Fijian to
all the children. It would be easier to introduce other
multicultural activities like Fijian legends and stories
from Indian epics. Schools should also teach the
history of Fiji as a compulsory subject for all chil-
dren. These would help them develop a strong sense
of identity with the nation and a deeprooted loyalty.
More government involvement will also mean no
wastage of money, time and effort in fundraising ac-
tivities as it is a feature of almost all non-government
schools today. As the schools are classified according
to the number of students and the salary of the princi-
pal/head teacher is based on this criterion committee
schools after independence concentrated on increas-
ing the rolls without worrying about the standards.
Wiping out the voluntary system would mean an end
to such adverse policies. It would reduce wastage
and although there will be initial opposition to some
of these policies, once the benefits become evident
Comment
Contrasts and contradictions
For many, India’s social, cultural and political
complexities are a challenge to fathom, given the
country’s long history, sprawling geography and
a bewildering multiplicity of cultures. For those
trying to make sense using hard data and statis-
tics, the challenge does not become any easier – it
paints a picture of extreme contrasts, like no other
country in the world.
Consider this: People of Indian origin are the
highest income-earning single ethnic group in the
United States and there are over 50 dollar billion-
aires in India, yet half of India’s 1 billion people
live on less than one dollar a day. India is the
twelfth wealthiest country in the world in terms
of GDP, has foreign exchange reserves of about
US$ 267 billion (sixth highest in the world), yet its
per capita income is just barely higher than that of
sub-Saharan Africa (less than even many Pacific
island countries).
India is a nuclear power with satellite and
lunar vehicle launching capabilities, yet over half
its population has no access to treated drinking
water. The country produces more graduates than
any other every year, yet nearly forty percent of its
population is illiterate. Its IT skills are sought after
all over the world, yet it has among the lowest PC
penetrations anywhere.
All that points to a very skewed distribution of
wealth – a thing that worries many international
agencies. But the number of those who believe
India’s economic reforms will close these huge
gaps over time is rapidly rising.
Growing steadily at a rate of about 7.5 percent
in the mid to late first decade of this century,
India’s economic progress is thought to have
reduced poverty by 10 percent. Even with an in-
flation rate of 11 percent and a budget deficit of
nearly 7 percent of GDP, international investors
are still placing their bets on India given its innate
strengths: flourishing democracy, rapidly growing
middle class and large pool of trainable human
resources.
Yet, it will be years – perhaps decades – before
India’s stark contrasts go away.
there will be support from the parents.
These are all things that can be done by the
interim government while an elected government
would be more hesitant to embark on such reforms.
This is extremely important for building an inte-
grated nation where children primarily identify with
the country rather than their ethnic group, religion or
community. Education is most important for build-
ing a united Fiji.
In 1999, I published a book, ‘Education and Race
Relations in Fiji, 1835-1998’. In it I said: “Fiji, as we
know it, is being given a second lease of life. There
is a new Constitution in place which promotes multi-
culturalism. But we now know from experience that
a Constitution is only a piece of paper that can be ab-
rogated or put aside by a military strongman or even
a civilian dictator. The only thing that can prevent
such a situation from arising is the collective desire
of the people to have a peaceful democratic country.
Children of Fiji should be educated towards it. The
only education that can promote this goal is multi-
racial, multi-cultural education”.
A few months after the book was published, in
May 2000, the People’s Coalition government was
overthrown in a civilian coup, proving my prediction
right.
Education still remains the key to Fiji’s ethnic and
political problems. To have a stable democracy in the
country education policies should be given high pri-
ority.
13
Indian
Independence Day Special

Who you calling Third World?

Rakesh Krishnan
India’s corporate raiders splashed out over $50 billion
last year to acquire some of the hallowed corporations
of the West. Sixty-two years after independence, India
is poised to be the world’s single largest investor.
Sue H., a Howick-based store owner, travelled Zealand contingent into commenting on whether
to India 10 years ago on an extravagant tour that the poverty of India would affect Kiwi athletes.
took her to the palaces, forts and luxury hotels Imagine, nothing about the smog, weather or
of India. “It’s a unique country and I want to traffic. “Are the athletes being prepared to adjust
take my children there next time,” says the New to the extremes of wealth and poverty they’ll see
Zealand resident. in India?” she asked. The chief-de-mission said,
However, Sue won’t be showing her children “Yes, the athletes are being conditioned to handle
glimpses of India’s past glory. And forget about it and will be given counselling.” Athletes, such
walking tours of Nariman Point; there’ll be no softies?
shopping at the glitzy malls bigger than some So let’s get the record straight. Is India a poor
Auckland suburbs; she’ll also give a miss to the country? Why not let the facts answer that ques-
massive space launch facilities in south India and tion? Why publish reams of articles when the
the vast IT complexes of Hyderabad. facts will tell you what the TV channels won’t.
No, Sue wants to expose her young impres- Let’s start with a flashback.
sionable children to the “other side” of India. “I On February 2, 2007, the country erupted in
want them to see how the poor live there, so they celebration when the Tata Group won a bid for
can realise what a wonderful country we have Corus – the Anglo-Dutch descendant of British
back here,” she says. Steel – for more than $19 billion. Not since that
Thomas W., a Belmont businessman, says mid-summer day in June 1983 when Kapil’s
New Zealand youth should look at the way Devils won the cricket world cup had India seen
India’s poor live so they can better appreciate the such scenes of jubilation and patriotic fervour.
quality of life available in New Zealand. Headlines spoke of empires striking back, while
A TV3 news crew traveled to New Delhi to pundits and industrialists said India had at last
check out the Commonwealth Games prepara- arrived as a world power.
tions and the opening shot was of – you guessed The deal followed just a few months after
it – a slum. No sports stadia were shown. Delhi’s the world’s largest steelmaker Mittal Steel’s $51
famous boulevards were given a miss. The re- billion takeover of Luxembourg-based Arcelor
porter then led the chief-de-mission of the New ended five months of corporate battles, an acqui-

14 Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian
sition that created the largest steel entity. Owner
Lakshmi Mittal’s triumph in the takeover saga
stoked Indian national pride in a big way, even
though he didn’t own a single steel plant in his
own country.
And if the Tatas were in overdrive, could the
Birlas be far behind? Ten days after Tata’s multi-
billion-dollar acquisition, the Aditya Birla group
announced an agreement to acquire Novelis
Inc, the largest flat-rolled aluminium maker in
the world, for $9.5 billion. The US-Canadian
company operates 36 manufacturing locations in
11 countries and has around 12,500 employees.
The takeover fever that gripped India Inc
two years ago shows no sign of ebbing. The deal
street is buzzing with companies announcing
takeovers or mergers on a daily basis. Almost
every listed company is on the prowl – at home
Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz
as well as abroad – looking for suitable prey. By
one estimate, 60% of India’s top 200 companies
are looking at foreign acquisitions.
As the value of overseas bids by Indian firms
soared to $50 billion in the first 11 months of
2008, the takeover of Western companies by
Indians has struck people in India as evidence
of a delicious reversal of fortune: a once-proud
civilisation, having fallen to the humiliations of
colonisation, is now buying out the hallowed cor-
porations of the West.
Grant Thornton, a global consultancy firm,
says the number of outbound deals has far ex-
ceeded the domestic ones. India is thus a net ex-
porter of capital. For comparison, the amount of
money India invests abroad is more than half the
annual GDP of New Zealand.
The US remains a favourite destination for
Independence Day Special
Indian companies. According to the Indian Com-
merce Ministry, from 2004 and 2007 Indian
companies created 300,000 jobs in the United
States.
India retains its position as the No.2 foreign
employer in the UK, after the US. This year
Indian investors created 4149 new jobs, with 108
new projects. The most important acquisition
in recent times has been that of Axon Group by
HCL Tech for $1 billion.
India also replaced Japan as the largest Asian
supplier of foreign investment projects in the UK
this year, with significant investments in IT, life
sciences and advanced engineering. In fact, the
first mayor of London Ken Livingstone said he
“would not be surprised if India took over a large
share of the British economy”.
Singapore and The Netherlands are major
beneficiaries of Indian investment; Egypt has re-
ceived $1.3 billion; and Vietnam will get a $7.8
billion steel plant from Tata.
The Pacific region has so far been outside the
orbit of India Inc because of the small size of the
market represented mainly by Australia and New
Zealand. However, last month it was reported that
oil giant HPCL may take over 230 Shell stations
in New Zealand. However, that will happen only
if Kiwis overcome their fear of investment that
doesn’t come from Australia, the UK, Canada or
the US.
Indian companies have many good reasons
for gobbling up companies abroad. For drug
makers like Dr Reddy’s, buying the marketing
division of an American pharmaceutical firm is
a way to buy instantly, rather than build labori-
ously, a sales force. For an automaker like Tata
Motors, acquiring Daewoo of Korea quickly in-
jected expertise in heavy trucks.
While earlier the Indian market was big
enough to accommodate everybody and his
uncle, the saturation levels are being reached in
several industries. Bharti Telecom, which adds
around seven million subscribers a month in
India, is seeking a 49 per cent stake in South Af-
rica’s MTB in a $78 billion merger deal. This will
help it move into the vast untapped markets of
Africa (before Vodafone gets a foothold).
As ever more acquisition deals are an-
nounced, most of them smaller and less contro-
versial, a kind of takeover nationalism is emerg-
ing in India. A survey published by the Chicago
Council on Foreign Affairs concluded that
Indians see their country as second only to the
United States in its influence in the world. They
also expect the global sway of the United States
to wane over the next 10 years while the power of
India continues to rise.
India’s foreign takeovers effectively symbol-
ise the former subject’s becoming master. When
Jamsetji Tata sought to stay in a British-run hotel
in Mumbai in colonial days, he was refused
because he was an Indian. He resolved to start his
own Taj Mahal Hotel, which opened in 1903 with
German elevators and English butlers. And now,
as a fast-growing hotel chain, the Taj has taken
control of Western properties like the Pierre in
New York, the W in Sydney and – most poeti-
cally, perhaps – the St. James Court in London.
Actor Amitabh Bachchan puts things in per-
spective: “A pulsating, dynamic new India is
emerging. An India whose faith in success is far
greater than its fear of failure. An India that no
longer boycotts foreign-made goods but buys out
the companies that make them instead.”
So who you calling Third World?
Rakesh Krishnan is a features writer with
Fairfax New Zealand. He has previously worked
with Businessworld, India Today and Hindustan
Times, and was news editor with the Financial
Express.
15
Indian
Independence Day Special
For many Indians the struggle for freedom continues
The gentle azure waves of the Arabian Sea
lapped lazily at the shores of Kannur, a sleepy
hamlet in Kerala. It was August and the clan had
gathered there for a wedding in the family. As
always it was a virtual family reunion. While
some children of the family played hide and
seek in the old house finding interesting hiding
places, others gathered around the elderly ladies
of the family who were exchanging notes and
also regaling kids with reminiscences of their
childhood. “ I still remember the day India got
independence” said Amma (my mother). “I was
10 years old then and up to my knees in slush
planting paddy. It was raining cats and dogs and
my kodai (umbrella made of woven palm leaves)
was leaking like a sieve. It was windy and I was
shivering from the cold.
Around midday I saw a rickety old jeep trun-
dling along the wet dirt track.A man perched
precariously on the slippery bonnet was an-
nouncing in Malayalam “ladies and gentlemen,
rejoice and be proud, India is now free. We are
all now the citizens of a free India – Vande
Mataram” – and we all stopped what we were
doing and listened.” “Then what did you do?”
piped a small child (one of my cousins). “What
did I do? … actually what could I do? The paddy
planting had to be completed that day itself, so I
bent down again, the umbrella resting between
my shoulder and neck and went back to what I
was doing”.
Though a promising student, my mother was
taken away from school to care for her younger
siblings as childcare services were unheard of
then. She got married, had children and contin-
ued to shower her care on us her children. Three
decades is what it took before my mother could
get her freedom from these chores and responsi-
16
bilities … only after I, her son started working. for all her life. Trying to beat the inflation and teachers. Literate mothers who can afford it send
But millions of mothers across the country still maintain a reasonable standard of living is their children to better schools in big cities or
do not have that freedom. Their umbrellas still one of the biggest struggles in India today. better still … overseas. Bringing quality educa-
leak, their sisters and daughters are still to be Here again my sister is more fortunate than most. tion to every child of the country is yet another
married, their sons yet to get jobs … For countless families across India the struggle struggle where we have miles to go. “If my first
Their struggle for to make ends meet goes son was alive he would be fifty years now. But
independence still on … . “We are worried what is the point in talking about that now”.
continues … “You about Karthik’s educa- My Chitti (maternal aunt) was referring to
don’t really have to tion” my sister-in-law her first born child who died at childbirth. She
try to teach me. My complained. The stan- was 17 then. If she had had the right medical
mom doesn’t mind if dard of teaching in his attention, her first born would have been alive
I don’t get first rank school is really plum- now. Chitti lost one more child before she had
in school. So please meting. The teachers one who lived to call her “Amma”. The trauma
teacher don’t force don’t seem to know of losing two children in succession and having
me to study. If you anything. I just don’t to wait a long time before a child would grow to
really love me, just know what to do.” call her “Amma” left an indelible mark on her
give me a hug. Education is en- personality.
My mother shrined as a funda- “I did not want to have a lot of kids but when
doesn’t have time mental right in our the first two died, I prayed to God … Please give
for that, that’s why constitution and is me my own children” … and God seems to have
she sent me here.” often flaunted as one heard her cries. She had seven children in the
This was my eight- of our achievements by next 15 years before she stopped bearing chil-
year-old niece to politicians. Yet quality dren. But millions of mothers still lose their first
her class teacher. education is still not child due to lack of proper medical attention.
The teacher in turn available even to Millions do not know how not to have children
told my sister. My people who can afford and millions do not have anyone to advise them
sister cried for hours or are willing to pay to stop. Freedom to choose the number of chil-
on end. She took a for it. Sadly, the best dren is another struggle which is far from over.
week off from work brains in the land do The battle continues … 15th August 1947 was
and sat at home hugging and pampering her not choose teaching as a profession or career neither a beginning nor an end for my family.
children all the time. option because of the ridiculously low scales of For
A middle class Indian family cannot be run pay. Even those who end up as teachers do so millions of families it was not even a mile-
on a single income alone these days. So my sister not out of any love for teaching but for want of stone. The freedom struggle is still being fought
still gets up at 5am, prepares breakfast, readies better options. Meanwhile the next generation on several fronts and many levels. Over the past
the children for school and rushes to catch the ‘Simbly’ ‘Rite’ ‘Rong’ things in their notebooks sixty odd years we have won some and we are
7.15 fast local so she can get to work on time. and illiterate but considerate mothers feel glad yet to win others.
She still does not get time to hug her children. at the little red - Rajesh Krishnamurthy
This is one freedom she has had to struggle tick marks made by literate but unconcerned
Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz
Indian
Wellington events outfit
celebrates cultural diversity
Arts, Music, Dance, Theatre and Culture are inte-
gral to the lives and well being of all New Zealand-
ers. The arts reflect and define who we are. Artistic
expression enables each of us to celebrate our own
culture and heritage as well as our shared New
Zealand culture and heritage.
Ravi Kambhoj, Founder director and promoter
of the Wellington-based Urban Fusion Trust says
there are a lot of cultural events happening in the
country but they are all working in isolation and that
there is a need and scope to bring these cultures to-
gether and create an “atmosphere of fusion”.
“The purpose of the trust is to encourage,
promote and support the arts, music, dance and
theatre in New Zealand for the benefit of all New
Zealanders,” he says. One of the cornerstones of
making this a reality is by recognising New Zea-
land’s cultural diversity and celebrating the arts,
music, dance and theatre of ethnic communities.
The trust works toward bringing to the New
Zealand public exciting arts-based events in the near
future. It is also looking for Artistic talent in various
communities who would like to showcase their cre-
ative abilities (solo, group or a band) and do not have
the recourses to do so.
UrbanFusion Trust plans to give a platform
to perform (venue, marketing, audience, etc) and
wherever possible raise funds to promote the talent.
Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz
It has already held some successful events like
Greek and Mexican Mix, Indian and Arabic Mix,
Bollywood Fever, Indian and Latin Mix.
There are a number of events lined up
for August:
14th - Bollywood Fever:
Independence Day special.
It’s been 62 years since India got its Independence
on August 15, 1947. There will be plenty of Bolly-
wood music and dance at this event.
Venue – Fusion Bar, 24 Taranaki Street, Wellington.
Door Charge- $10.00.
15th - Afro Latin Extravaganza
A beautiful mix of African and Latin beats with live
performances.
Venue – Fusion Bar, 24 Taranaki Street, Wellington.
Door Charge- $10.00.
22nd – Greek Night Out
Live performances and Music all night long.
Venue – Fusion Bar, 24 Taranaki Street, Wellington.
Door Charge- $15.00 only. ($5.00 will go toward
fundraising for ‘DINAMI’ Dance Group)
28th – Hafla-Arabian Nights
Presenting ‘Snake Charmer Belly Dancers’-
Venue – Fusion Bar, 24 Taranaki Street, Wellington.
Door Charge- $10.00.
29th - Sambalada Funk
Brazilian Groove - Live music and dances all night
long.
Venue – Fusion Bar, 24 Taranaki Street, Wellington.
Door Charge- $10.00.
For more information:www.urbanfusion.co.nz
- Indian Weekender news desk
Kooky for Komputers
Kooky girls: Chandni Patel (left),
Neelam Bhika, Reda Jawed, Janaya
Soma and group leader Jayna Patel.
Komputer Kooks, a group of Wellington East Girls’
College information technology students, are helping
other girls from their school, and also their parents.
The students offer help to fellow students who
need assistance with computers during school hours,
and help students’ parents from 3.30pm till 5pm
every Wednesday.
Their parent tutoring classes have proved a hit.
Each week a Kook is given a parent to tutor in the
ways of information technology.
The programme helps students connect with
parents on a different level. It also allows parents to
see how dedicated the Kooks are.
``We all love tutoring the parents,’’ said 2009
technology prefect Jayna Patel.
``It is really great to feel that you are helping
them, and it gives you the chance to get to know
them in a different way.
``We didn’t think we knew enough to teach them,
but we found out that we did, so that’s pretty cool,
too. It is really empowering.’’
During school time, the Kooks run an elective
Community
information technology class once a week for junior
students.
Komputer Kooks are being run this year by
Jayna, with assistance from the head of department
of information technology, Cris Roughton, and the
other two IT teachers, Timothy Harford and Julia
Flanagan.
The Kooks were started early last year by a group
of year 12 and 13 girls skilled in computer technol-
ogy. Since then, they have become well-known
throughout the school.
They are hoping to soon have their own web page
connected to the school website.
Their IT skills help the Kooks at the end of each
school term when they put together a slide-show
of pictures of events and girls from throughout the
term.
The Kooks recently took part in the Wellington
Regional Tech Hui ‘09, at Samuel Marsden Colle-
giate.
(From The Wellingtonian)
- Lucy Mitchell
17
Indian

18 Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian
Community
Vivid Indian revelry Prayas’ Khoj to stage this month
Auckland’s innovative theatre group Prayas is
set to stage their own play at the end of August.
After performing plays by others, director
Amit Ohdedar has written Khoj – the Search, a
comedy that explores the migrant dilemma.
Prayas collected tales from migrants that
Ohdedar wove into a comedy-drama.
Khoj – The Search, an English language play,
tells the story of Jamshed, who leaves India for
New Zealand and tries to make a new life here,
while his parents in Mumbai pine for him.
In Auckland, he has found a few friends and
possibly love, but he is challenged by many prob-
lems, the main being the toilet; sitting versus
squatting. This affects various aspects of his life,
leading to the threat of being fired, therapy, legal
advice and even hypnosis.
Ohdedar was inspired by the best-selling
author Rohinton Mistry’s collection of short
stories, Tales from Firozsha Baag.
He was touched by the story of a Parsi
migrant in Canada trying to come to terms with the idea of doing their own has been a challenge.
the difference in culture and lifestyle. “It was an ambitious thought,” Ohdedar said.
“Khoj raises some serious questions through He worked with co-writers Sananda Chatter-
humour. Jamshed’s ‘toilet issues’ are used as a jee and Poorna Prakash with the help of drama-
metaphor for adapting to the adjustment issues turge Fiona Graham.
Breaking boundaries: Shrividya Ravi plays Parvati in Anand: Joy in Motion, Indian dance maestro in a new country,” Ohdedar said. Khoj – The Search runs at TAPAC, the Auck-
Vivek Kinra’s celebration of 20 years of successful performance in New Zealand. The play includes highly visual dance se- land Performing Arts Centre, 100 Motions Road,
Anand promises to be a joyous event transcending cultural boundaries. It will showcase Kinra’s quences to underscore the tale. Western Springs, from August 27 to 30.
choreographic work and features the mesmerising dance drama fShiva Geeti Mala Ravi will be joined For the first time, perhaps, Prayas combines Book tickets at www.tapac.co.nz and for
by the dancers of the Mudra Dance Company. traditional Indian dance with the Maori poi more visit www.prayas.co.nz
Anand, which will feature colourful, hand-painted sets and music created and recorded in India, dance. - Michael Field
will be at the Memorial Theatre, Victoria University from July 30 until August 2. Prayas earlier plays, Charandas Chor and The
Terrace, were well received when performed and

Sai Baba Sansthan to perform Mata Chowki Elders’ conference in October

Shri Shirdi Sai Baba Sansthan NZ Inc. will be
performing Mata Chowki on August 22 at the
Mahatma Gandhi Centre, Eden Terrace, Auck-
land.
Mata Chowki is a programme which includes
divine and melodious bhajans and keertans to
Maa Durga. The bhajans and keertans will be
sung with devotion by Sri Pramod Kapur, Indu
Kapur and their group. The programme begins
with Lord Ganesh vandana and sankalp by the
Mata Puja sponsors. Sansthan will be arranging
Bhent
(offering of puja coconut and Mata Chunari to
Devi Durga) for the convenience of the devotees
to buy at the entrance of the hall.
The programme is also clubbed with Sai
Nama Smaran and Shej Aarati. Maha Prasad will
be arranged widely to all the devotees present.
The donations and the collections of the event
will proceed towards the construction of the
Shirdi Sai Baba temple at 11 Brick Street, Hen-
derson, Auckland. All are requested to attend the
occasion with their families and friends to seek
the blessings of Maa Durga & Sai Baba.
The Sansthan also celebrated the Mata
Chowki programme last year in September 2008.
Around 2000 devotees attended the function
which was a grand success.
Shirdi Sai Baba bhajans and aarati is regular-
ly performed at Mt Roskill War Memorial Hall,
13 May Road, Mt Roskill. For further informa-
tion, please contact the President of the Sansthan,
Hari Gangisetty on (09) 630 5817 or Bhaskar
Reddy, the secretary on (09) 846 9271 or long on
to www.shirdisaibaba.org.nz
The Hindu Elders Foundation, a division of the
Hindu Council of New Zealand has announced
the first Hindu Elders Conference on Saturday,
October 3, 2009. The theme of the conference is
“Old is Gold”.
The Hindu Elders Foundation works toward
building a stronger and more dynamic Elders
network that is based on principles of the Sanatan
Dharma (the universal or eternal law).
Social services, community cohesion, spiri-
tual growth, culture, non-violence, preservation
of tradition by bridging the generation gap are
some of the guides toward this noble work.
For any country the true wealth is in the
wisdom and experience of its Elders. This con-
ference will focus on positive ageing of our
elders, and health and wellbeing. The confer-
ence will also deliberate on social issues, for
example, stresses of settling in a new country at
a later stage of life, acculturation and living in
a modern country like New Zealand with tradi-
tional values.
The conference aims “to facilitate and
empower the community so that the Hindu elders
live with confidence, and be productive and par-
ticipating citizens of New Zealand. It will also
create awareness about opportunities for Elders.
It will also create awareness about opportu-
nities for elders to channel their energy toward
contributing to the social cohesion, family unity,
community strength and economic prosperity of
our country,” said Pravin Patel, the coordinator
of the 1st New Zealand Hindu Elders Confer-
ence.
The conference will provide an opportunity
for Elders and their families to network and
discuss any concerns with government agencies
and service providers, participate in and contrib-
ute to the discussions that would give positive
outcomes for the benefit of New Zealand society.
The Hindu community in New Zealand is
well established in professional fields, business-
es and farming. The Hindu Elders contribute to
the New Zealand community by sharing their
tremendous wisdom and wealth of experience.
Positive responses have been forthcoming
from NGOs, government agencies, Members
of Parliament and elders of the community.
Members of the Foundation are looking forward
to a successful conference.
For more information, please contact: Pravin
Patel, conference coordinator 0211646468 or
e-mail hinduconference@gmail.com
- Indian Weekender news desk

For all your

legal needs
Aaron Kashyap
BA, LLB
Barrister and solicitor
Level 1, 351 Manukau Road, PO Box 26-596, DXCP 32513, Epsom, Auckland
Mobile: 0274 857 302 Phone: (09) 6238277 Fax: (09)6235177
Email: aaron@kashyaplaw.co.nz

Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz 19

 Indian
Community

Kandhanin Perumai
Advertorial

New Business Investment Category Policy

Immigration New Zealand has just released a NEW Business Investment Category Policy applicable
from 27 July 2009. This is an exciting policy and the main changes are a lower English Language
requirement and a reduction in the investment funds required.
The new business policy appears to woo rich Asian investors back to New Zealand after the last
Dance drama on Lord Kartikeya’s glory has the audience
huge influx of business migrants from 2000 to 2002 years. This new Migrant Investment Policy has asking for more
two sub-categories. These are: • Investor 1 Category • Investor 2 Category
The Academy of Bharatnatyam was established
in 1999. On the July 4, the Academy put up a
Key requirements Investor Plus Investor (Investor 2 Category) programme called “Kandhanin Perumai”, where
(Investor 1 Category) 20 students participated in it. The evening was
Maximum age No requirement 65 or younger a grand success as some people felt they hadn’t
Business experience No requirement Minimum of three years
Investment funds NZ$10 million invested in NZ NZ$1.5 million invested in NZ for
seen enough and asked the dancers to perform
for three years four years all the items again.
Settlement funds No requirement NZ$1 million (transfer not re- It started with the Pushpanjali, an invocation
quired) to Lord Shiva, which was followed by Subra-
Principal applicant’s English No requirement An English speaking background, manya Kavuthuvam – a prayer to Lord Muruga
language or an International English Lan- or Kandhan. The child-performers were Aditi
guage Testing System (IELTS) test Ramalingam, Thushara Pears, Kanchana Pears,
report with an overall band score Varsha and Disha Gomathinayakam, Malini
of three or more, or a competent Malur and Gowri Prabhakaran. Adavu (foot work)thus prooving once again the
user of English
Family member’s English No requirement Same as principal applicant or
The footwork and coordination by these hard work and sincerety that has gone towards
language pre-purchase ESOL tuition dancers who performed for the very first time on the making of this programme.
Minimum time in New Zealand 73 days in NZ in each of the 146 days in NZ in each of the last the stage was excellent. The same dancers con- After the interval the Thillana, the Kavadi
last two years of the three-year three years of the four-year invest- tinued with Aurmugamana Porul, a semi-clas- Chindu and the Ball dance as well as the Andi
investment period ment period sical dance depicting the six Karthekai Pengal Maygudhadi a padam performed by Mrs. Sunder
with the inclusion of three more Murugans for was all worth watching once again as spoken by
Applicants under both Applicants under both
Health and character this dance. They were Aruni Ramalingam, the audiences after the event.
categories must meet health categories must meet health
and character requirements. and character requirements. Anuja and Kumarini Pears. These children are The climax was the six temples depicted
as young as seven years old and to face an audi- in the dance that was choreographed by Mrs
ence of 700 for them must have been a mammoth Sunder and in which all dancers took part and
The table above shows that there are no requirements for Age, Settlement Funds and English Require- task. was beautiful and enthralling for some felt that
ments when an Applicant has $10m NZD to invest in New Zealand. In comparison to the previous policy, The senior girls then performed the Shringa- they had visited all those temples that evening
this policy is much more attractive. Although for the other category (Investor 2 Category) there are certain re- ra Velan that extols the beauty of Lord Muruga. and brought tears to their eyes when they beheld
quirements, however, INZ has lowered IELTS Band from 4 to 3, as well as Business Experience requirements The dancers were, Siddhi Ayyar, Sucheta Raj, the beauty and the colours along with the music
from 4 years down to three years. Of course, the Investment Funds has also been reduced from $2.5m - $1.5m. Ragini Vijayakumar, Shruti Iyengar, Kalyani and the stage decorations that enhanced the
Yet, the Application process for these two categories are different, under Investor Category 1, Applicants Nagarajan Neelan Hari, Karishma Hari as well item.
can submit their application to INZ without having to go through EOI selection, as long as you have evidence as Aruni Anand. The audience was amazed at On the whole the evening was a grand
to show that you have the required investment funds. Applicant can apply under Investor 2 Category will need the beauty of the dance, and were at a loss for success and some said that the Academy has
to have a minimum of 20 points and meeting the described minimum requirements. words. set up a bench mark for other schools to follow
In Summary, the process is much more complicated than what we have described here. APEC Immigra- The highlight of the programme was suit in future. Priya Vijay as the evening’s MC
tion is running a free seminar for clients who may want to know more about this NEW POLICY, we will however, the Varnam in Poorvikalyani Ragam had done a remarkable job and has a very bright
explain to you in detail regarding both categories under Investor Migration Policy and answer any questions and in Adi Talam. The senior girls showed their future ahead of her in this field.
you may have for any immigration matters. meticulous footwork and precise coordination - Ram Lingam
Please refer to page 16 for more details. both in Abinaya (facial expression) as well as in

20 Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian
School Bollywood competition this month
The biggest dance talent show of the year
is here, and it promises never-seen-before
hungama on stage in Auckland.
The Bollywood High School Dance Compe-
tition (Second Decade) at the Logan Campbell
Centre on August 22 will be remembered for a
long time, says organizer Binesh Sumer.
The show, now in its 11th year, will open up
with a special tribute to Michael Jackson who
died in Los Angeles on June 25.
A 20-member troupe will perform to special
lighting effects and music to remember and
honour the King of Pop.
And the crowd and participating schools
will also have to a chance to be part of a Bol-
lywood movie (Pump Up The Mandali), the
dance and crowd scenes of which will be shot
during the show.
Pump Up The Mandali is the first feature
length Bollywood movie being made in New
Zealand and Fiji using the Fiji Hindi language.
“You’ll have to see it to believe what will be
happening on the night,” said Sumer, himself
a long-time entertainer and who now runs the
Desi International Showbiz Ltd.
“I can guarantee a very high-energy show
which will be loved by all.
“There will be fierce dance battles, heart
pounding action which will surely set your
pulse racing.
“It will be the show of all shows – a real
dhamaka.”
The competition, which has this year attract-
ed 30 high schools, has a whopping $12,000
prize pool.
De La Salle College, the defending cham-
pions, will be returning for another shot at the
crown, as will runner-up Pakuranga College
and Lynfield College.
All participating schools will be given $200
each this year to help with their preparations
and the winner will receive $3000 plus trophy
Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz
on the night. First runner-up picks up $1500
plus trophy, and $750 plus trophy for the second
runner-up.
Sumer, who has been involved in the enter-
tainment industry for more than 20 years, the
competition had always provided a grand stage
for a host of young talent who were eager to
strut their stuff.
“It’s not just Indians, but all races get in-
volved and have a great time – it’ll be just
bigger and better this year.”
Participating Schools
Alfriston College, Botany Downs Sec-
onday School, Diocesan Girls, James Cook
High, Kelston Girls High, Lynfield College,
Marist College, Mt Roskill Grammar, Pakuran-
ga College, Papatoetoe High, One Tree Hill
College, Rutherford College, Westlake Girls,
Kelston Boys High, Southern Cross, Avondale
College, De La Salle College, Rosehill College,
Howick College, Waitakere College, Mt Albert
Grammar, Macleans College, Hamilton Girls
High, Manurewa High, Onehunga High, Glen-
field College, Otahuhu College.
Tickets, costing $25 flat, are available at:
West Auckland: Arakh Food and Spices,
Rhythm Video, Super Star Video. Central:
Bharatiya Video, Auckland Indian Sweets and
Snacks, Century Video and Yogiji’s. Mt Roskill:
Soman’s Video. South Auckland: Auckland
Indian Sweets and Snacks, Monument Video,
Century Video, Indian Sweets and Video. Papa-
toetoe: Valley Fresh, Sonam’s Video. Panmure:
Valley Fresh, Sonam’s Video. North Shore: Jas-
sal’s Mixed Masala; and all partcipating high
schools.
Bollywood High School Dance Competi-
tion – Second Decade, Logan Campbel Centre,
Greenlane, Auckland, August 22. Tickets $25,
Binesh Sumer can be contacted on 021496321.
- Arvind Kumar
Sikh Society Honours Bhai
Ram Singh Ankhi
Over 10,000 Sikhs visit the Takanini Gurudwara
every month, making it Sikhism’s nodal place of
worship in New Zealand. This grandeur and opu-
lence of this impressive monument that stands on a
sprawling 8.6 acres of land is worth seeing. It is the
culmination of many years of dedicated effort by the
Sikh community of Auckland under the guidance
and leadership of then president S. Daljit Singh, JP
and Secretary S. Pargat Singh along with Manpreet
Singh and Rajinder Singh.
This is one of the biggest Sikh Temples outside
India and was dedicated to the Sikh community on
Baisakhi day (March 13) 2005. A visit to this Gu-
rudwara is an unforgettable spiritual experience and
there is a free community kitchen (langar) operat-
ing on a 24/7 basis 365 days a year. It is pertinent
to mention that Sikhs were one of the first Indian
immigrants into New Zealand in the late 1800s and
Takanini Gurudwara bears testimony to their sheer
perseverance and resilience.
Recently, noted Sikh preacher Bhai Ram Singh
Ankhi was honoured by the New Zealand Sikh
Society and the Supreme Sikh Council of New
Zealand for his religious preachings at Gurdwaras
Takanini and Otahuhu during a full house ceremo-
ny.
A robe of honour (Siropa) was presented on
behalf of the gathering by Baba Tejinder Singh
(Akhand Kirtani Jatha), the father of S. Kharag
Singh, a well-known Sikh golfer. Sikh business-
A cause for little hearts
aaja nachle: Dancers Perrit Naik and Nazneen Daruwalla will also be part of the
action at Edgewater College on August 29 and (right) Monisha, of Monisha’s School of
Dance, will be one of the key performers at the Namaste New Zealand musical extrava-
ganza in Pakuranga on August 29.
Showman Viraf Todywalla is at it again – per-
forming on stage, that is.
And this time it’s all for a good cause – to
raise funds for Heart Children New Zealand Inc.
Todywalla and his troupe will be part of the
Namaste New Zealand Multicultural Musical
Extravaganza Nite set to be held in Pakuranga on
Saturday, August 29.
The multicultural show, which will also
feature Maori, Indian and Salsa performances, is
part of efforts by staff of Farmers Botany Down
store store to raise funds and celebrate the iconic
Kiwi store’s 100th year of service.
It is also expected to feature up and coming
local Indian entertainer Ashish Ramakrishnan.
Dance performances are by V4U Entertain-
ments (Bollywood/Bhangra), KRAZY KIDZ
(Rocker Stars), Monisha School of Dance (Indian
Classical), DJ Kunal (Michael Jackson), Gina
& Team (Salsa), Azhar Adam (Break Dance),
Natasha & group (hip hop / islander fusion),
Karishma & Samoa Group (fusion), Jay (Hip
Hop), Romeo (Jazz), Shaniel Singh ( Bollywood)
etc.
Singers: Ashish Ramakrishnan, Rachit
Bhatia, Viraj Maki, Gina Te Whata,
Community
Honoured: Bhai Ram Singh Ankhi
being honoured
men Avtar Singh Tari and Manohar Singh presented
Bhai Ram Singh Ankhi with a shawl as a mark of
respect.
The NZ Sikh Society and the Supreme Sikh
Council also gifted a cheque of $1000. The preacher
felt humbled by all this respect bestowed upon him
and thanked the President of the NZ Sikh Society,
Rajinder Singh. He also specially thanked Daljit
Singh, JP, head of the Supreme Sikh council who
has been a tireless worker for the cause of Indians in
general and Sikhs in particular.
For more info about the Gurudwara Sahib or the
NZ Sikh Society, please contact Daljit Singh, JP, on
021803512 or email him daljit@xtra.co.nz
-Indian Weekender news desk
Sanya Minocha etc.
Todywalla, better known as the man behind
the V4U Entertainment, is a former staff member
of Farmers Botany.
“I worked there for six years, and this time I
was approached by staff there to help out – I am
most happy to as it is all for a very good cause,”
said Todywalla, who himself features in numer-
ous stage performances throughout the year in
New Zealand.
His most recent outing was as a judge and
guest performer in the Indi King 2009 at the
Dorothy Winstone Centre in Auckland.
And currently he is heading the choreography
for the stars of Pump Up The Mandali, a full-
length Bollywood film being made in Auckland.
Tickets for the show, to be held at Edgewater
College, Edgewater Drive, in Paukranga, are $10
and $20 for VIP seats.
Tickets available at Farmers Botany Downs,
and also from Viraf Todywalla on 09 576 9399
or 021 0424245. Also at Moshims Pakuranga and
major video shops. For more info Call: 2729880 /
5769399 / 021 0424245
- Arvind Kumar
21
Indian

RDB concert
confirmed for
a full page in
Bollywood

22 Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian
Ekalavya pays respects to his Dronacharya
Paresh Rawal on Naseeruddin Shah
Naseeruddin Shah turned 59 recently. Though
Naseer did not celebrate his birthday this
year, he has promised all his friends and well
wishers that he would celebrate his 60th birth-
day next year on a grand scale. Paresh Rawal,
who considers himself the Eklavya of Naseer-
uddin Shah, pays his tribute to his friend and
guru Naseeruddin Shah tells JYOTHI VEN-
KATESH in a telephone conversation that it is
a pity that Indian Cinema has not yet exploited
Naseeruddin Shah’s potential as an actor till date
Over to Paresh Rawal
 
“It was dream come true for me as an actor
to work under the direction of Naseerbhai in
his maiden film as a director. It was like vis-
iting paradise. His perception of the scene
is exciting. What I want to tell people is that
one should not write him off as a director or
judge him by just one film that he has direct-
ed, just because the film did not do well at the
box office. As is evident on the stage when he
directs all his plays, Naseerbhai is very excit-
ing as a director.
“I would call Naseerbhai a complete gan-
gotri as an actor. It isn’t just the way he acts
but the way he pursues his profession. Can you
beat it, he actually had the guts to go away to
USA just to do a miniscular role in Brooke’s
production for one whole year, just to see
whether the rules that he follows as an actor
are applicable and to be with the master of the
stage. Any one can deliver a good performance
but that shows his attitude, as an actor, which I
am afraid not many have.
Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz
Bollywood
“I think not only me but there are several
Eklavyas for Naseerbhai, because there is so
much to learn from him, like his dedication,
his passion and the truth as far as acting is
concerned. The best thing about Naseerbhai is
that he is not just superb as an actor but his
acting can even turn into an experience. I have
seen even people who do not have even an iota
of talent interfering on the sets with other co-
actions and director but you wish that Nas-
eerbhai would interfere on the sets but he does,
because he is such a thorough professional.
“I have come across in my career very
few actors jinke muh pe jo hain wohi unke
dil pe bhin hain. There is hardly any differ-
ence between his vichaar and vani. If you ask
me what I do not like about Naseerbhai is his
tendency to get very disheartened very fast. I
still feel that even if he is angry, his anger is
very justified because his ire is towards indis-
cipline, stupidity and what’s more inadequacy
at things which happen around him on the sets.
Also I do not like his nature of trusting people
very easily, quickly and impulsively. He falls
for the bait when people talk to him pyaar se.
However, it is because of this every nature that
al of his friends came forward to be part of
his project when he decided to turn a director.”
“Among the films of Naseer which I trea-
sure as an actor till date are Sparsh, Godhuli, does not preserve his entire body of work on
Manthan, Chakra and Firaque. Every perfor- DVDs. It becomes his duty so we can observe
mance of his is memorable. It is a pity that the and do whatever we can do. I am dying to act
Indian Cinema has not been able to exploit in a film with him after a long time, after Ma-
his potential as a tremendous actor. I think it harathi and Firaque”.
would be a gross injustice to the future genera-
tion and the fraternity of actors if Naseerbhai
23
Indian
Bollywood
ADVERTORIAL

Ladies Rule at Club Nachle

It is rare at most nightclubs but a common sight at Club Nachle, 489 Khyber Pass, Newmarket, to
see a largely female majority enjoying themselves.
Club Nachle, and their ‘Ladies In Free’ policy has been very successful, as the Bollywood themed
nightclub enjoys unprecedented success in Auckland’s highly competitive Auckland nightclub scene.
Nightclub operators, Anup Nand and Steve Larsen, believe that the entry policy has led to a high
number of regular female patrons and this has helped create a unique, colourful and fun atmosphere
in a female friendly environment.
Their DJ’s are considered some of the best in Auckland and there’s something for everyone as far
as music goes.
While other Bollywood Nightclubs have struggled to maintain their female attendance, Club
Nachle has been pulling them in with great music, a relaxed and social atmosphere, and one of the
most extravagant LED lit Dance Floors in Auckland.
It also helps when you’re so conveniently located in Newmarket, close to motorway exits and the
CBD, not to mention AUT and the University of Auckland.
There are tons of new patrons from all walks of life here every Saturday so there are always new
people to meet, party and hangout with. Everyone is friendly, approachable and ready to mingle.
Club Nachle is located on the top floor of the Carlton Pub on the corner of Broadway and Khyber
Pass in Newmarket. Ladies are in for free before 1:30am however Club Nachle tends to fill up quick
so it is a good idea to get in quick.
Club Nachle is an R18 nightclub so Photo ID is required and there is a $10 cover charge for the
guys.
- Reggie Singh

Now short and sweet

You can access
www.indianweekender.co.nz
by typing in just

www.iwk.co.nz

24 Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian
‘The media took me for granted’
Priety Zinta has been going through arduous times. With her IPL-team going for a toss, followed
by her break-up with long time beau, Ness Wadia, life suddenly seemed to be grim for this
otherwise bubbly and chirpy Preity. Now, putting away all this behind her, Preity is all set to
start life afresh, after a long holiday.
Where have you been all along?
I was working hard for the last two years and the
IPL was taking a major part of my time. Later, the
venue suddenly shifted to South Africa and I had
to fly back to Mumbai all the time to complete my
shooting. The constant shuttling around took its toll
on my health and I fell ill. I felt I desperately needed
a break and I took one. I went on a holiday to Paris,
London and L.A
Did it give you your much-needed break?
Well, it definitely made a different. I caught up on
old friends, who were looking forward to meet me.
I also went out shop-
ping and bought many
clothes for myself. I
also met my brother
Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz
and his family so there was family bonding as well.
Besides, I underwent a brief training in different
kinds of dancing to keep in shape.
The buzz about your break-up with Ness
Wadia has been doing the rounds for a long
time now.
Of course, I have gone through a break-up, but that
is personal. The only reason I am speaking to the
press about what is happening in my life is that I am
linked with the wrong men. I have a lot of respect for
the person whom I have been with for so long and
hence do not want to discuss. Now, my priority is to
work hard so that that people start discussing more
about my professional life rather than my personal
life.
Has the break-up made you a bitter per-
son?
I have no bitterness for the person with whom I have
shared my life for so long. It will be unfair to say
so. You feel bitter when somebody has wronged
you. Here Ness has not wronged me. It is just that we
decided not to go ahead with the relationship. What
I shared was a relationship with him and friendship
was a part of it. I have learnt a lot through this re-
lationship. I have also matured in the process. Since
I have always conditioned my mind to think posi-
tively, I am taking this in a positive light. I am aware
of the fact that life can be unpredictable and full of
twists and turns. The best approach is to retain what
gives you happiness and forget the rest. There is no
point dissecting it.
But why have you become so media shy?
Bollywood
I have my own privacy limits. I can
invite people to my home but definitely
not to my bedroom.
But then you were also called a
home breaker?
I was unaffected by that because
I alone was aware of the truth. I
also realized that the media was
taking me for granted. They
were either writing about my
broken heart or calling me a
home breaker. I decided that
the best answer to this was to
withdraw into silence. I needed
my space. For those who want to
know how I am, I am fine.
Do you intend to continue
your association with the
IPL?
Yes but now I will shift my profes-
sional focus to acting. I will only be
there for the matches as opposed to
being constantly involved with the IPL
activities. In the first two years, I was
completely committed to IPL.
So which are your forthcoming films
on the anvil?
I am on the verge of signing two new films
with very big banners. Prior to that, Main
Aur Mrs Khanna with Salman Khan is due
for release. Though I have a cameo in the
film, it is an interesting role.
25
Indian
Manage your debt intelligently
RAVI MEHTA
Different people have different attitudes towards
going into debt. Some people are conservative and
hesitate to take even home mortgage whereas there
are some who will take all the loans, which are
offered to them.
One can have many types of debt, hire pur-
chase, deferred payment purchase, car loan, credit
card, mortgage, student loan, etc. There are many
institutions in the market that have money and are
always looking for creditworthy customers to lend.
Do not be overjoyed if you receive a letter advising
you that you have been pre approved a credit card
or a personal loan.
The organisations/lending institutions are there
to make money by earning interest on the loans
made to you. They do not and are not under any
obligation to advise you if you are making the right
decision.
You should remember that getting into debt is
very easy but it takes lot of hard work, planning and
discipline to get out of the same. So before getting
into debt, you should consider carefully about the
likely effects on your life style. There is no clear-
cut answer as to whether you should get into debt
or not, but should consider the discussed hereunder
before getting into it.
There are certain assets which depreciate in
value with time. Broadly you should avoid borrow-
ing for these assets. Likes of these are cars, TVs and
other consumer durables. You should try to pay as
much down payment as possible and repay the loan
as fast as you can if you need to borrow to finance
the purchase of these items. By the time most of
hire purchases are paid off, the value of item is
reduced significantly.
On the other hand, there are some other assets
whose values go up with time. That means, though
we are paying interest on the same, the values go
up and are enough to cover the money lost in terms
of interest payments. Most common example is
housing mortgage. The house prices normally ap-
preciate in value over period of time (It does not
Have you done a lifestyle
check lately?
Oliver Pereira
From one year to the next, things happen and
life changes. People get married, have babies,
get sick, get better, move house, start new jobs
or are made redundant, go overseas, retire from
work……you get the idea.
Most people insure their cars and properties
against damage and loss, but many neglect to
insure their lives and livelihoods. Even those who
have thought to protect their lifestyles may not
have the levels of cover they need. When was the
last time you assessed the risks to you and your
family?
What’s going on in your life right now deter-
26
mean, they can never lose in value).
But normally the interest cost is offset by capital
appreciation and savings in rent which otherwise
would have been paid. Over a period of time, the
loan is repaid and house is an asset which would
have gained in value unlike a car or other consumer
durable which would have lost in value.
Similarly there are some debts on which interest
is a tax deductible expense, like the case of invest-
ment property. In these cases it may be beneficial
to get into debt. But it does not mean one should
get deep into debt which may become a problem to
service in future
. sored superannuation schemes. In those cases,
What should one do, if one is already in debt?
Which debt should be retired first?
The answer is the debt which has got higher
interest cost, after tax adjustments should be paid
off ahead of other debt. Credit cards, expensive hire
purchases should be paid ahead of home mortgage
which normally carries lower interest rate than
other types of debt. Again if you have mortgage on
the house you are living in and the investment prop-
erty. It is the mortgage on own house which should
be repaid first as interest cost on investment prop-
erty is tax deductible expense.
Should one retire debt faster or should one save?
First of all there should be savings to cover ex-
penses for emergency. After that the priority should
be given to get rid of debt.
Which debt should be repaid first depends
upon what sort of interest is being charged. If it is a
student loan which is interest free in NZ, the answer
is there shouldn’t be any urgency to pay that off.
Instead minimum required repayments should be
continued with.
If the tax adjusted interest to be paid is lower
than the after tax return on savings, it makes sense
to save than to use the income to retire debt faster.
But one must take care about the risk involved in
mines the type of life insurance you need and the
cover levels that you require.
Life insurance products (sometimes known as
‘risk’ insurance) are designed to provide a backup
plan to hold things together when life turns an un-
expected corner.
These products can pay either a lump sum or
monthly payments to the beneficiary in the event
that the insured person dies, or suffers a critical
illness or an illness or accident that prevents them
from earning their usual income and maintaining
their lifestyle and financial commitments.
So, can you afford not to have insurance?
investments. If it is risky to invest separately, one
should use the savings to retire debt faster. The
common example is if you are in 33% tax bracket
and you are having a mortgage at 6% interest you
are better off in repaying it faster by using your
savings rather than putting the money into invest-
ments which will give you 9% return before tax. If
you earn 9% on any investment, the return after tax
will be only 6%; there will be some investment risk
as well.
But it is not always the case. Sometimes there
are savings instruments which have additional ben-
efits like Kiwi saver and most of employer spon-
there is contribution from employer and from IRD
(in Kiwi saver). Normally the total return will be
more than the cost of debt.
So it makes sense to make the contribution to
these schemes ahead of paying the debt faster, con-
tribution to these is normally very small to make
full use of employer/IRD contribution.
Is debt consolidation into home mortgage a good
idea?
Certainly it is, as normally home mortgage in-
terest is cheapest. But there are always the dangers.
First danger is one is putting his house at risk by
having bigger mortgage and any failure can lead to
mortgagee sale.
The second is there is temptation to go into short
term debt again. What will happen, when the debt
is consolidated, the borrowing capacity in terms of
repayments one can afford increases and as such
there is tendency to take more loans/hire purchases
resulting in increased debt. So if someone wants
to consolidate short term loans into housing mort-
gage, one needs to be much disciplined.
Is it good idea to take student loan?
Education is one’s greatest asset. Normally, it
enhances job prospects and increases income. In
New Zealand, Government student loan scheme is
interest free. If you have money, you should put it in
THINK ABOUT THESE SCENARIOS…
You or a family member needs to go to hospi-
tal to have a major operation (perhaps for breast
cancer or heart bypass) – would you be prepared
to wait on the public health system for treatment,
with little choice regarding the hospital care you
would receive? Yes No
You are unable to work for six months due to
illness or injury – do you have enough savings to
see you through without damaging your long-term
financial goals? Yes No
You or your partner suffers a life-changing
and traumatic event such as diagnosis of cancer, a
heart attack or stroke, and makes a slow recovery
– would you have enough savings to live on during
recovery and adjustment without adding financial
stress to the situation? Yes No
You die suddenly leaving your partner and
children behind – would they cope financially
without an insurance pay-out? Yes No
Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz
Finance
interest bearing account or pay off other debt, but
should make full use of student loan scheme.
What is the best way to repay house mortgage
faster?
There are different ways. Remember there is no
magic that can reduce your mortgage term from 30
years to a shorter term. It is your increased repay-
ment which reduces your loan term.
If you have a loan of $300000 at an interest rate
of 7% per annum, your weekly EMI is $460 (30
years), $489 (25 years) $536 (20 years), 621(15years)
But normally, you may not like increasing your
fixed commitment by choosing a term of 15 years
instead of 30 years although you have capacity to
repay it in 15 years. Then the other way is to save
separately and pay lump sums.
But the best way to repay your mortgage faster
is to make use of revolving credit facility.
The revolving credit facility is offered by dif-
ferent names by different financial institutions. The
main feature is that it is a transaction cum deposit
cum loan account in one account. All the incomes
are direct credited to account and all expenses in-
cluding minimum mortgage payment come out
of it. Whatever is savings left automatically is left
in the account resulting in loan being repaid. But
whatever is left can be withdrawn as and when
needed. Here it is worth pointing out that revolving
credit facilities carry floating interest rate, so the
full loan should not be kept on revolving credit; the
loan structure should be carefully structured in ac-
cordance with financial advice from experts.
Ravi Mehta is an Auckland based
Financial Advisor and can be contacted on
ravi.mehta@pfsl.co.nz
A disclosure statement under Securities
Markets Act relating to his services is available on
request and is free of charge.
For further information, please visit website
www.professionalfinancial.co.nz
If you have answered ‘No’ to any of these
questions, then you are likely to be ‘carrying’
some level of risk or, in other words, be underin-
sured. Doing a lifestyle check with an insurance
adviser will show whether you have the right kind
of insurance for your stage of life. Your insurance
adviser can help you understand the risks you
are carrying, and provide advice on how best to
manage these risks within your budget.
The above information has been provided to
serve only as a guideline to assist in evaluating
your insurance needs. You are encouraged to do
your own research before arriving at any deci-
sions.
For further information, please contact:
Oliver Pereira – OPM Insurance Services Ltd.
Ph. 0800 66 77 92 | Faxmail. 021 551 669 |
Mobile. 021 66 77 92
Email. oliver.pereira@xtra.co.nz
Indian
Stunning good looks – and the man behind it
Prashant Belwalkar catches up with veteran cinematographer of yesteryear
Manohar Kulkarni who is visiting Auckland
The other day we were watching the kids play
dumb charades and eventually the discussions
moved around to the Hindi films and film in-
dustry. Someone commented on how beautiful
Madhubala looked in movies while others com-
mented on the way Waheeda Rehman looked
in Guru Dutt’s movies. All this lead to a heated
debate around directors, who made heroines look
so beautiful. In all that we actually forgot the one
person responsible for these stunning good looks
of the heroines – the cinematographer!
Neeta Vale, our host, commented that her dad
was a cinematographer and an award winning
one at that! This took me by surprise. Here was
an opportunity to meet one of the silent greats of
the movie world. Rarely does a cinematographer,
editor or dubbing editor get recognition for their
work. We hardly award the technicians with the
highest National award in the Film fraternity – the
Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime achievement award.
Manohar Kulkarni, Neeta’s dad, won this presti-
gious award in 2008 and is the first cinematogra-
pher to win this coveted award, with the excep-
tion of Nitin Bose who won in 1977, but he was a
writer, director, producer and a cinematographer.
I immediately seized the opportunity to talk to Mr
Kulkarni and get a glimpse of his journey in cin-
ematography!
Born on 25th December 1923 in Mumbai into
the Kulkarni family, a family full of Doctors,
Manohar Kulkarni was different from his other
siblings. Even in school he was interested in
photography and filming the sports events. This
interest led him to attain full-fledged training in
cinematography. And against the wishes of his
family, he joined the film industry. Unlike the fans
and respect which film fraternity artists get today,
in those days, it was an industry shunned by the
Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz
society at large and anybody joining this industry
was considered as a failed individual in life! This
however, did not deter the young Manohar. He
wanted to fulfill his dreams of being an ace cin-
ematographer, and pursued this dream seriously.
Mr. Kulkarni joined the film industry around
1944-45, but his first big break came in 1947 when
Colonel Gandhi took him to Pakistan, where he
filmed his first documentary “The Birth of Paki-
stan,” which earned him quite a reputation. On
his return he got his first feature film – Bedard
(Sadabahar productions). In those days, there
were no independent production houses but film
studios hired the artists and the crew. He did a
couple of films for production houses in Patna
which included Pyar zindagi hai and a few other
films.
He also did several Marathi films. It was a
challenge to do the films as the sets, costumes
were elaborate and the artists very particular
about their appearance. Shahu Modak, Jeevan,
Trilok Kapoor , Sulochana, were some of the
famous artists in these films. Recalling an inci-
dent Mr Kulkarni remarked that the late Trilok
Kapoor, famous for his role of “Shiva” in Hindi
films, used to dangle a real live snake around his
neck for authenticity. During one such shooting,
a close up shot was required and as the camera
started rolling and Trilok Kapoor finished his
lines, the snake decided to move over to the
camera and came very close to Mr Kulkarni, but
Trilok Kapoor managed to get the snake away.
Mr Kulkarni recalls that Ashok Kumar was a
true gentleman and had a very thorough under-
standing of the film making process. With Ashok
Kumar he did films like Uljhan, Kala Admi and
also the famous Pehli Tarikh. The song “Aaj Pehli
Tarikh hai” has become famous over the years
and is regularly played on Radio. He would often
help the directors understand the difficulties faced
by cameramen while using close-ups or long
shots. Mr Kulkarni regrets that during his time
there were no light meters or colour films in the
earlier days and it was very difficult to film in the
era of black and white films. Today an art director
can separate the colour easily. In those days, care
had to be taken if the background was white and
the artist hair was white, the use of backlight was
necessary to highlight hair which was always a
challenge for cinematographers.
Apart from the films, Mr Kulkarni did several
documentaries and film promos as they fetched
quite a steady income. Among his notable docu-
mentaries are Kokan – Paradise of Maharashtra,
Goa – Yesterday & Today and Tibet – Roof of
the world , which captured the life and culture of
Tibet, for an American production. An interest-
ing incident about Goa – yesterday & today, is
that it was filmed by both Films Division and Mr
Kulkarni. Even though the government’s Films
Division had some of the best resources available
at their disposable, Mr Kulkarni’s film was better
in terms of presentation and won the Films Divi-
sion recognition and award.
Mr Kulkarni also specialised in Medical
shoots and did several films on open heart surgery,
cancer operations, ENT operative practices for
noted doctors. It was challenging to shoot these
films in those days as the blood has to be seen
in the correct shade of red or it would be seen as
pink when over exposed and brown when under
exposed. Filming in the operation theatre for long
hours of operation in silence was a test in itself.
Mr Kulkarni also did several documentaries for
Personality
pharma companies.
Mr Kulkarni’s brother R N Kulkarni was the
erstwhile Mayor of Mumbai. Manohar Kulkarni
was married to Smt Mangala Kulkarni and had 3
children; Deepak, Geeta and Neeta. Unfortunate-
ly, Mr Kulkarni has lost both his wife and his son
now. The loss of his son took all his interest away
and he reduced his involvement in cinematogra-
phy. Today, he reminiscences the good old days
and fondly remembers the best director of them
all, V Shantaram. His work was finally acknowl-
edged when the National committee for awards
decided to reward him for his lifetime dedication
to cinematography and awarded him the ‘Da-
dasaheb Phalke lifetime achievement award’ in
2008. He received the award at the hands of thes-
pian Dilip Kumar.
It was a pleasure to meet Mr Kulkarni in
Auckland at their daughter Neeta Vale’s resi-
dence. Rarely, do we get to meet such personali-
ties who are responsible for making such visual
treats and make the hero’s look so macho and
heroine’s so beautiful on the celluloid. Though
Manohar Kulkarni has retired now from his craft,
his work will remind us of his contribution to the
film fraternity. As they say – a picture can speak
thousand words and remain in memory forever!
27
Indian

28 Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian

Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz 29

Indian
WEEKENDCUISINE 5 easy tips for
Cough and Cold
Paneer Makhani Pasanda Corn Fritters
By Swami Ramdevji
Recipe by Ruby Dhillon Recipe by Shri Desai

1. Practise breathing exercises

(pranayam) everyday, especially
Ingredients: Ingredients: Kapal-bhati and Anulom-Vilom for at
least 15 mins each in the morning and
•0 500 grams- Paneer cut into cubes •0 500 Gms boiled and mashed evening.
•0 1tbs- Ginger paste potatoes
•0 1tbs- Garlic paste •0 400 Gms of any frozen vegetables 2. Take Ramdevji’s Chyawanprash
•0 800gm- Chopped tomatoes of very small cut twice a day which helps build up your
•0 2tsp- Red chilli powder •0 3 #6 Eggs-Whisked well immune system to help with cough
•0 1tsp- Kasuri methi •0 4 Tbsp of Self raising flour and cold.
•0 1tbs- Sugar •0 Some oil or butter for pan frying
•0 2tsp- Garam masala powder •0 1 tsp of Spice of your taste- Mas- 3. Drink 100% Amla juice and 100%
•0 1tbs Cashew nut paste ter food’s Cajun/ Sweet and Sour Aloe vera juice with hot water twice a
•0 Salt according to taste or Italian herbs day.
•0 150ml- Cream •0 Salt – To taste
•0 2tbs- Butter 4. Avoid fizzy drinks, ice creams etc.
as they can be very harmful in this
Method: situation.
Method:
•0 Heat butter in a pan, add garlic paste to the butter followed •0 5. Make sure you wash your hands
Mix all ingredients together (including one of the
by ginger paste and cook for a minute. Add Cashew nut paste before and after eating anything.
suggested spice of your taste) until a smooth paste is
and again cook it for a minute.
formed
Next issue:- Psoriasis and Eczema
•0 Make a puree of these tomatoes in a mixer then add this puree •0
Heat a non stick pan and add some oil or butter
to the butter masala.
•0
Place one large ladle of the mixure
•0 Give it a boil and let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes before
you add sugar, garam masala, salt, kasuri meth, red chilli •0
Turn after few minutes or till the surface is turns golden
powder.
brown.Repeat with other side.
•0 Mix and cook for a minute, then add paneer to it. •0
Serve with a sauce of your liking and some fresh green
salad
•0 Stir and cook for a minute or two.

•0 Add cream and garnish with chopped coriander leaves.

Serve hot with rice or paranthas.

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30 Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz

Indian
The Significance of the Chariot with Krishna and Arjuna
Ravinder Grover
Krishna Janamashtami is observed as the
birth day of the 8th Avatar of Lord Vishnu,
on the 8th day of the dark half Hindu month
of Shraavana. Krishna is famous for many
things, one of the most well known is Bhaga-
vad Gita, which is the conversation between
Krishna and Arjuna before the great Battle
of Kurukshetra and is considered as a philo-
sophical and literary classic of all times.
Refer to the Gita Upadesam picture.
There is a chariot between the two armies
in the battle field of Kurukshetra. Arjuna
(passenger) is seated at the back. Lord
Krishna (charioteer) is driving the chariot.
He is holding the reins, which are control-
ling the horses that are leading the chariot.
Collectively this composes one full picture
of the chariot. But what does this all signify?
This picture is symbolic of our inner instru-
ments to train the mind and senses. Here is
a meaningful description:
1. Chariot: Sarira (physical body), the in-
strument through which the Self, intellect,
mind, and senses operate.
2. Charioteer: Atma (Self, sometimes
referred as Higher Intellect or Buddhi),
leading the chariot, supposed to be the wise
giver of instructions to the mind.
3. Passenger: Jivi (Individual Soul, the em-
bodied Atma), always the neutral witness.
4. Horses: Indriyas (Senses), (eyes-vision,
Gokulashtami
The birthday of the Lotus-eyed Lord
August 14 this year is Gokulāshtami or Krishna
Janmāshtami. Gokulāshtami is a very auspicious
day for the Hindus across the world. Gokul is
the name of the place where Lord Krishna was
brought up. It is the birthday of Lord Krishna
– the most widely recognised Hindu gods, wor-
shipped as the eighth incarnation of Vishnu and
as the supreme deity. ‘Krishna’, apart from the
well-known meaning ‘ the dark one’, also has
another meaning - ‘the attractive one’. Krishna
comes from the Sanskrit root word ‘karsh’
which means ‘to pull’, ‘to attract’. According to
Adi Sankara’s commentary, Krishna is the 57th
name of Vishnu and means the “Existence of
knowledge and Bliss.” Many scholars have ac-
cepted that Lord Krishna lived on earth 5000
years ago in the period between 3200 BCE and
Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz
3100 BCE.
How is Gokulāshtami celebrated?
On the auspicious day of Gokulāshtami,
Hindu households and devotees decorate their
houses as if there is a birthday party, imprint
a child’s footprint from the door to the prayer
room signifying the coming of Baby Krishna
into their homes and prepare sweets as offering
to the Lord. Butter which is believed to be Lord
Krishna’s favorite is also offered. Seekers of
truth observe fast throughout the day and break
the fast at midnight when the Lord is believed to
have been born. This is followed by devotional
songs on the Lord.
The Lord’s childhood pranks and leelas are
made popular in the western state of Maharash-
tra by people enacting Krishna’s childhood at-
ears-hearing, nose-smell, tongue-taste,
skin-touch), through which we relate to the
external world by perception and action.
5. Reins: Manas (Mind), through which the
senses receive their instructions to act and
perceive.
6. Roads: The countless objects of the
senses in the world and our memory
7. Wheels of the Chariot: Right effort
8. Destination: “Perfection” or “Self Real-
ization”
9. Kurukshetra Battlefield: Inner battle-
field of mind, the only place where one can
confront and vanquish the Inner Demons.
10. Two Armies: Kauravas (Demonic
nature) and Pandavas (Divine nature)
11. Who’s driving your chariot? Mostly
we don’t let the charioteer on duty. The reins
(mind) are f lapping around freely without
the proper inner guidance and not giving in-
struction to the horses (senses).
Hence they wander freely down any
road they feel like in response to their past
memories (Chitta). The chariot (body) takes
a beating, the horses (senses) get tired, the
reins (mind)) get worn, and the charioteer
(Intelligence) gets lazy.
The passenger is completely ignored.
tempts to steal butter and curd from earthen pots
beyond his reach as mentioned in the Lord’s bi-
ography the Srimád Bhāgavatam. In the course
of these celebrations called Dahihandi, which
is part sport and part ritual, a butter filled pot
is suspended high above the ground and groups
form human pyramids to try and reach the pot
and break it. There is also a cash prize attached
to the event. The prize depends on the height of
suspension of the pot.
Significance of Lord Krishna
The incarnation of Krishna represents the
descent of the infinite to the finite material
world. Even his costume has a deep significance
for the devotee. The symbolism of Lord Krishna
in his costume as found in many artistic images
around the world is described by Swami Chin-
Heritage
12. Put the charioteer back on the job:
Retrain the charioteer (Intelligence) to pick
up the reins (mind) and start giving some
positive direction to the horses (senses).
This training is called Sadhana (spiritual
practice).
13. Allow the charioteer to serve the pas-
senger: When the charioteer (Intelligence)
becomes more stabilized in being back on
the job, there is an ever increasing aware-
ness of the fact the entire purpose of the
chariot, horses, reins, and charioteer, are to
serve as instruments for the passenger, the
true Self.
The Mahabharata is still going on within
us, the fight between our demonic and
divine qualities. In this conf lict, Krishna
(Self, Atma, Higher Intellect) is ever on the
side of Dharma (Righteousness). If you seek
to have the Lord on your side as your guide,
equip yourself with the divine nature, the
qualities of Dharma. This chariot is to be
driven right to the Destination (Perfection,
Self Realization). Horses may dash down
the chariot into a ditch if they are restive,
tired, unwilling, and cannot see the road
properly.
We can invoke Divine Guidance in us
as our personal Charioteer to assist us
throughout every battle we must fight with
inner demons
Visit www.iwk.co.nz for further
reading on this subject
mayananda as ‘The ever smiling Lotus-eyed
Krishna, with a garland of flowers around His
neck, is described as being blue in colour and
wearing yellow clothes. Blue is the colour of
the infinite and whatever is immeasurable can
appear to the mortal eye only as blue, like the
sky and the ocean. Yellow represents the earth.
Anything buried in the earth gathers a yellow
hue. Hence, the finite blue form of Krishna
clothed in yellow appropriately suggests the pure
infinite Consciousness. The one infinite Reality
has become the world of endless forms. There-
fore, every form in the universe, in a sense, is but
a representation of a primeval Truth.”
Happy Gokulāshtami.
- Rām Lingam
31
Indian

32 Indian Weekender | August 7, 2009 | www.iwk.co.nz