IndianTHE INTERNA TIONAL Est 1992: The Region’s Oldest, Authoritative Magazine of Gulf Indian Society & History FABULOUS PEARLS FOR SUBSCRIBERS! 2012 • ISSUE 2 • VOL. 19.2 Jewellery www.theinternationalindian.com Mar 1, 2012 - Apr 30, 2012 Want to become a Millionaire? Stock market investing tips Sikhs in Latin America Assimilation and fortune HIGHER EDUCATION: How good are the options in the Gulf? We had servants, you know! Anglo-Indians: Great location for Hindi movies Fort Jadhav Gadh: Citadel of a Maratha strongman The legendary Indian Ocean island Bollywood in Ireland: India: Once upon a time Indians in Zanzibar 1 The International Indian • BAHRAIN BD 2.00 • KUWAIT KD 2.00 • OMAN RO 2.00 • KSA SR 20.00 • UAE AED 20.00 • CANADA C$ 8.00 • UK £4.00 • USA $ 6.00 • SuPPoRTIng youR dEvEloPmEnT AT All STAgES of youR cAREER From our world-leading ACA qualification to our leadership programmes, ICAEW has a comprehensive suite of qualifications and programmes that can support you at all stages of your career. Covering a range of specialist areas across accountancy, finance and business our suite includes: • IFRSs and Financial Reporting Qualifications and Programmes • ICAEW International Standards on Auditing (ISAs) programme For readers of The Indian magazine a special *15% discount is available during the month of April when you book our IFRS and ISAs programmes. Please use code IIAPR12 when booking online or by telephone. More information can be found at icaew.com/learning ICAEW Middle East T +971 4 408 0000 E
[email protected] buSInESS WITh ConFIdEnCE * Terms & conditions apply – please note discount is not available on the IFRS diploma. This discount offer is only valid from 1–30 April 2012. icaew.ae Elegant looking and stylish melamine products that are odourless and safe to use. Authorised distributors for UAE, Qatar, Oman & Kuwait P.O Box: 5833, Dubai - U.A.E. Showroom: Zabeel Bldg.(Sheikh Rasheed Bldg.), Umm Hurair Road, Parallel to Zabeel Road, Karama, Dubai. Tel: 04 3369530 Wholesale: 04 3470310 (7) Rajen Kilachand. like my grandfather. ‘What’s So Great About America’ E very once in a while it’s good to move away from what’s happening in India and focus on other interesting aspects of life away from the Subcontinent. Because I came to America. Lal’s Group: $530m. USA and Africa for example. I have seen my life break free of these traditional confines. like my father. Dodsal Group: $900m. Choithrams: $820m. I would undoubtedly have married a woman of my identical caste and religious and socioeconomic background. I would have faced relentless pressure to become an engineer. (8) Tony Jashanmal. in the Gulf countries especially. the United Arab Emirates actively fosters business opportunities for its expatriate communities. For the first time. & Contracting (Oman): $725m. rich Indians preferred to keep a low profile. (11) Paras Shahdadpuri.2 billion. Chairman of the Landmark Group tops the list – his wealth estimated at $3. – Dinesh D’souza. (13) Petrochem Middle East. but that seems to be changing.Editorial What’s So Unique About Indians In The Diaspora? Had I stayed in India. Jashanmals: $900m. something very obvious in a global city like Dubai where notably almost half of its 2 million population is Indian. Galfar Engg. EMKE Group’s Yusuffali MA with $1. GEMS Education: $950m. home to the largest concentrations of Indians abroad.72bn. arabianbusiness. Micky Jagtiani. (16) Khimji Ramdas LLC (Oman): $390m. or a doctor. Bond Investment Group Holdings: $630m. without Arab sponsors. (14) Jayant Ganwani. I would probably live my entire existence within a five-mile radius of where I was born. (17) Santosh Joseph. (4) The Chhabria family: $1. (5) PNC Menon. Nikai Group: $650m. Until recently. (10) Dr Mohamed Ali. Sobha Developers: $1. Business rules have been significantly relaxed by the UAE government and foreigners are allowed to own businesses. Apparel Group: $480m. rarely disclosing their wealth to the media. (15) Nilesh Ved.2m. author. (12) Hilesh Bodani. (9) LT Pagarani. though.3bn. Yogesh Mehta: $623m. (6) Sunny Varkey. One of the things TII hasn’t done in these pages is to examine dissimilarities between the key sectors of the Indian Diaspora – the Middle East. Dubai 2 The International Indian . it reveals an impressive $20bn worth of Indian entrepreneurial wealth. BR Shetty with $1. Perhaps more than any other country in the Gulf.com (28 Feb 2012 Updated) has compiled a list of the 30 most affluent Indians in the UAE– and if the magazine’s homework is accurate.75bn is in the second place and New Medical Centre Group CEO. and for many despite the that Indian Arrival Day is a holiday celebrated in recession. An estimated instance. Arabian Trading more inclined to a long term commitment Agency: $170m. Besides the rule of a lunatic like Idi mentioned – whether you own a business or Amin. (23) interaction is mostly kept confined in the Rizwan Sajan. between Indian businessmen and professionals Samara Group (Kuwait): $180m. most Indians are probably not aware half hour flight away. Danube Bldg Materials: $230m. India’s overseas fact that Indians in the UAE of the Gujarat riots. span. Places like Dubai are in fact just like to commemorate the arrival of Indians. India is just a short two and a In fact. A casual Indians are the most successful migrants in study of the list indicates that the Sindhi and recent human history after the Chinese. however other countries home to as one prefers in terms of shopping. caste and Indian professionals in the Gulf are thriving Indians are the most successful migrants in recent human history after the Chinese. despite the On the 10th anniversary East Asia. whose Diaspora is calculated at over 40 million people mostly concentrated in South East Asia ‘‘ . something quite suited to most Indian (25) Dr. Business revelations like this mostly concentrated in South suggest how. clubbing. (24) Vasu Shroff. This is more sophisticated than even parts of Europe a highly selective trait that is not appreciated and America. spic and commemoration. aptly indicating the some brilliant partnerships. Kumar Wadhawan. entertainment and travel. Transworld: $205m. unlike North America.. a restricted residence visa TII joins all grieving including Antarctica. Azad Moopen. Al Shirawi The Gulf Arab community is as conservative Group: $285m. Such a mindset is one in the Gulf only as long as you have a job or of the most obvious characteristics of the Indian a running business. sensibilities. (Qatar): $250m. success in the Gulf is the bond that commerce (28) GB Choithram Jethwani. the Gulf is still a dream home away several Caribbean countries and in Mauritius. population spans the world’s and GCC can obtain only oceans and every continent. Geebee has created with Arab nationals. male bastion with families rarely socialising. Relationships Group: $190m. with all the creature comforts you desire. Joy Alukkas Group: $230m. KEF entrepreneurs have been here for generations. whose Keralite communities take the lead in the Gulf Diaspora is calculated at over 40 million people business arena. which that must be renewed every families in prayer for has a permanent Indian three years in the UAE for research station. Holdings: 300m (19) Mohan Valrani. Regal Group: $220m. Africa being the most glaring Some insecurity issues should probably be example. USA. What is perhaps most striking about Indian (27) Ramesh Ramakrishnan. – who are more affordable to employ and (30) Maghanmal Pancholia. where immigrants can plant a serious concern to safeguard and maintain a permanent roots. the Indian business justice and peace. (21) traditional communities.The International Indian ‘‘ 3 and much in demand and many Indian Pearl: $360m. have instilled There are five billionaires on the list from the kind of confidence that has resulted in different backgrounds. Bhatia Brothers Group: $205m. breadth of Indian entrepreneurship. are similar celebrations in UK. large Indian-origin populations like Fiji. For Gulf NRIs. Canada and servants available and as much of an Indian feel Australia. it is probably the reason why Indians were belong to the 9 to 5 segment – you can stay booted out of Uganda. There being in India with family and friends around. so that is not a Ram Buxani. DM Group: $215m. especially when and an international lifestyle that can be far it comes to marriage and community. Social Joy Alukkas. The reason is probably because Indians are no vicious politics or widespread corruption. (29) S. from home. than their western counterparts. Cosmos-ITL Group: $235m. The big Africa and Kenya pointedly disregard such a difference is that Gulf cities are safe. about social interaction as Indians from Behzad Corporation. diasporic community – possibly coming from Australia etc. hundred or more countries around the globe. (20) Cheril Krishna Menon. (22) drawback for Indians to do business. But there is no question that sense of connection with their religion. South eating out. (18) Faisal Kottikollon. 25-30 million people of community is confidently Indian origin have made permanent homes in a thriving in the region. everywhere. generally unwilling to blend. (26) Ajay Bhatia. When a British parliamentarian once remarked that the sun never sets on the British Empire.for that longing. Realising the financial and political benefits of India’s thriving diasporic community. their hyphenated nomenclature doesn’t seem to have the same conviction of Indians in America. Singapore. V. @frankraj08 Frank Raj ‘‘ ‘‘ 4 Are you looking for your life partner? Tired of looking in the wrong places? Not happy with parental coercion? Skeptical about what the stars foretell? COMING SOON! The International Indian .’ which has become generic today. Indian businessmen are enormously wealthy in East Africa. Krishna Menon. that persists even long after physical links with India may be terminated. today. cooks. to India’s former Defence Minister. Chitra Bannerjee Divakaruni. articulates the idea in her novel.’ which is commemorated on 9 January every year) was first held in 2003.K. first launching the term ‘Indian Diaspora. The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (‘Non-Resident Indian Day. behind when they chose America. Such initiatives came long after our magazine The International Indian started in 1992. but the Africa experience for Indians to this day is not a very harmonious one as the Indian outlook has not really changed about integrating in Black African society. Canada.” Durban in South Africa is reported to have Diaspora.” Founder-Editor & Publisher Today. When you meet Indians in Kenya who declare they are Kenyan–Indians. that I should understand without words TII started their longing for the ways they chose to leave in 1992. Indentured labour was taken there as servants. and watchmen who were become initially employed in the agriculture and to generic build South Africa’s Natal-Transvaal railway. it is the
[email protected] Indian Diaspora on which the sun The International Indian never sets. the Indian government has been trying to keep the Diaspora under its purview. like the bitter-slight aftertaste in the mouth when one has chewed amlaki to ing the term ‘Indian freshen the breath. Australia.Editorial kind. “That’s because not even God trusts the Frank Raj British in the dark. having been born and raised there.’ the highest concentration of people of Indian which has origin. The Mistress of Spices (1997). he is said to have retorted. Mauritius etc. Their shame first launch. “It seems right that I should have been here always. they form the critical connection between motorist and road.com .E.aldobowi. Dubai. Which is why In� Tyres are the perfect nity choice for your customers. U. there can be no room for compromise. Built to perform with complete dependability.infinity-tyres.O. When it comes to tyre connecting with tarmac. Tel. Designed to deliver unfailing safety.com www. P. www.A. Box 5576.Infinity Tyres.com Al Dobowi Tyre Company Al Qouz. dependability and performance.: +971 4 338 8346 Fax: +971 4 338 8347 dubai-service@aldobowi. on the cover. 38 Fort Jadhav Gadh: Home Of A Great Maratha General by: Frank Raj In 1947. Photo courtesy: UOWD 6 The International Indian . a career was a lifetime obligation. Authoritative Magazine of Gulf Indian Society & History 38 61 22 contents buzzword 88 • Obama Beckons Indians To Come Visit • Rivoli Launches Tendence Gulliver Slim Collection 89 • Cyber Gear • BenQ And Eros Launch New Coopération And L Series LED TVs 90 • Liali Jewellery Unveils Its Amazing New Diamond Ring Collection. Philip G...Apr 30 57 11 Indian THE INTERNATIONAL EST: 1992 The Region’s Oldest. Altbach is Director of the Center for International Higher Education at Boston College. 28 Berlin & Leipzig With An Indian Slant! by: Marianne de Nazareth Once we were done with traipsing around Berlin we decided to go to Leipzig by train. MIRAGE! • LG Glasses-Free 3D Smartphone Knocks Out 3D Cameras 91 • Conference on ‘Life Style and Family Health • Babyshop’s Spring/Summer 2012 Collection Highlights Season’s Trends TII Am ateur Pho Comp to e See pa tition ge 53 education travel 26 I Love London by: Sarina Menezes London is one city where no matter how many times you visit your experiences are never the same.” is something every leader eventually faces. the Government of India abolished royal titles and the concept of feudal lords and feudal ownership of lands in the princely states and withdrew the Privy Purse and special 86 • Al-Futtaim Watches & Jewellery Adds Sparkle To More Winners As Weekly DSF Draws End • Dune Unveils The Spring Summer 2012 Collection… 18 The Next Step by: Rema Menon In the past. 20 Indian Education: Grand Plan Or Mission Impossible? by: Frank Raj Dr. 24 How Do You Change Organizational Culture? by: Michael Hyatt TII introduces the Michael Hyatt column on Intentional Leadership: “How to Change Organizational Culture. USA.What’s Inside Mar 01 . 10 Higher Education In The UAE by: Reena Amos Dyes TII evaluates some of the opportunities available in the UAE. . AVSM. Vijayan Ramachandran Nambiar is a perfect example of an outstanding performer whose leadership talent was spotted and groomed early on. Fax: (9714) 297 4345. www. E-mail: mahtanid@aol. Kirol Road. and indeed by the Congress Party itself. Road.B. PO Box 181681. Surrey SM1 1 BT. Tel: +44-208-770 9717. As You Like It by: Sarina Menezes The cuisine of Kerala has a wide variety of vegetarian as well as non vegetarian dishes thanks to its diverse culture. UNITED KINGDOM Deepak Mahtani. E-mail: frankraj08@gmail. THE INTERNATIONAL INDIAN is owned by Global Indian Travellers Association (GITA) a private limited company incorporated in England and Wales under the Companies Act 1985 on 14 January 1998 (Company No: 3492445) 50 Grove Rd. Kohinoor City.. 92 SOLDIERS Army Chief Seeks Legal Recourse by: Major General Mrinal Suman.. Sutton. VSM. Nambiar: A Dream Come True by: A staff writer Dr..theinternationalindian. 201. HE Consul General of India. Surrey SM1 1 BT UK. 1 Commissariat Road. Bengaluru 560 025 Tel: (+9180) 4444 7777. No. the RSS. 42 India Travel Buzz 44 Gulf Hotel Happenings 44 World Traveller 48 Indians In Zanzibar by: Frank Raj TII introduces the first of a three part series on Indians in East Africa and Zanzibar.com. 64 Bollywood Boost For Ireland tourism by: Annique Labuschagne Ek Tha Tiger has considerable potential 78 The Honeybee Network by: Shyamola Khanna Padmashri Prof. Fax: (+91 20) 2528 5615. was not as rosy as they’d expected. Kothrud. 2 Editorial 8 Letters 9 Editor’s Pick 72 TII Hall of Fame columns features 34 The Fourth Passenger: A Story About Woman Empowerment by: Bandana Jain As a part of Emirates Airline Festival of Literature’s Open Door series. 56 We Had Servants You Know! by: Rudy Otter Life for many first-generation Anglo-Indian migrants to Britain in the 1940s/50s.. L. South Asian Development Partnership. Kurla (W) Tel: (+91 22) 6119 7777. Pune 411 038. Off. UK. Sanjay Verma had an informal discussion with Mini Nair. Tel: (9714) 297 3932. E-mail: mahtanid@aol. to attract more Indian tourists to Ireland. Nungambakkam. Carshalton. INTERNATIONAL REPRESENTATIVE OFFICES: MIDDLE EAST: EXPAT GROUP. after India’s Independence.com The International Indian 7 .. Sobha Pearl. Kodambakkam High Road. 96 FUTUREQUEST Did Whitney Houston know ‘The Greatest Love Of All?’ by: Frank Raj food. Vijayan R. some madrasaas of Islam.privileges to the royalty. 54 Dr.com INDIA: MUMBAI: 611-A. PhD The Constitution of India empowers every citizen to seek justice from the courts when he feels wronged. 74 Sikhs In Latin America by: Amita Sarwal The global Sikh migration started initially with Sikh men being recruited in the armies of various countries – the valour of their martial race being recognised as early as during the Indian (Sepoy) Mutiny of 1857. Tel: +44-208-770 9717.. BENGALURU: 2nd Floor. Fax: +44-208-770 9747. 2nd floor. I didn’t have the will to force anything on Maia. Busari Colony.S. Tel: (+91 20) 4444 7777. 180. Paud Rd. Dubai UAE. Chennai 600 034 Tel: (+9144) 4444 7777. Author of ‘The Fourth Passenger’ in Dubai. 66 EAST MEETS WEST PARENTING Getting Your Child To Love Reading by: Cynthia Lim I knew that it was good for children to read every day. 84 Kerala. 2nd floor Capitol Towers No.com All material in The International Indian is copyrighted. in every issue. PUNE: 32 Bandal Dhankude Plaza. but unlike my parents. Fax: (+9180) 4444 7788 CHENNAI: No. Fax: (+9144) 4444 7788. the legendary Indian Ocean island that is always associated with mystery and swashbuckling stories of fortunes made and lost. Fax: +44-208-770 9747. 70 INDIA JOURNAL India’s New Youth Mantra by: Ranjani Iyer Mohanty Why is this song so immensely popular? There are several reasons that all contribute to the phenomenon. the Shiv Sena. and eventually got him elevated to his current role as the COO of NMC Trading. investment 62 Want To Become A MILLIONAIRE? Tips On Investing In The Stock Markets by: Debajyoti Ray Chaudhuri Real estate in India is generally a winning proposition provided one gets the location right and the legal issues are properly addressed. 118 Boundary Road. Kohinoor Mall. Anil Gupta from IIM Ahmedabad writes about his 27th “Shodh Yatra” 71 60 GUPTARA GARMAGARAM Fighting Corruption And Hate Speech? by: Prabhu Guptara The average Indian is less influenced by the Internet than by sources such as the BJP. “Real Estate”. They. silence.. I’ll object. Singaporean Chinese and the new ones coming in from mainland China. California Simple “non finance” Language I am an avid reader of your magazine. This to a large extent is done for the freedom Singapore offers and for families who want to have more than one child. “Political influence on market conditions”. The local Singaporean Chinese do tend to look down upon the new immigrants as opportunistic.EST: 1992 The Region’s Oldest. the Chinese being the majority by far do feel this. Robert Farro Dubai. how do different races get along in Singapore? Harmoniously and tolerantly. etc. that magazine is really amazing.) I’ll let you do your own peculiar thing.believes in mutual tolerance for integration. Topics like “What determines Rupee/Gold depreciation/ appreciation. in particular the “Investment” column. one should consider. Read it while on work in Dubai. Parker INTERNATIONAL CORRESPONDENTS CANADA Rubina Jacob SINGAPORE Amita Sarwal UK Anjali Guptara Khera Rudy Otter Shamlal Puri USA Prem Souri Kishore BAHRAIN Hemu Gorde OMAN Rahul Dev QATAR Ada Pillai INDIA DELHI Vishal Arora CHENNAI Aruna Srinivasan HYDERABAD Shyamola Khanna MUMBAI Sarina Menezes KOLKATA Archisman Dinda DIRECTOR Raina Raj Hadden GENERAL MANAGER Peter Souri Raj TII MIDDLE EAST & INDIA OFFICES: BAHRAIN Lloyd Rebello |
[email protected] copies Nov/Dec 2009 www.or other races / religions . the public outcry AGAINST those who objected to the curry smell shows how society is in favour of tolerating differences . Malay. In today’s world of numerous investment options.”. as seen in a recent “curry” case where one community objected strongly to the smell of curry their new Indian neighbours were cooking. it definitely gives a good understanding of the various economic and market criteria. which is explained in a simple“non finance” language. However. Email your letters to: frankraj08@gmail. Indian .and taking on citizenship. But there is a big diference between the old. Briefly. Hadden Prem Souri Kishore Benjamin H. air.the majority of the local people . are of great knowledge and help. like most Cauasians (Ang Moh (literally red-haired) as they are called here). flushed with ‘new’ money . Parker Vishal Mangalwadi TRAVEL EDITOR Shana Raj Parker MANAGER PR Christine DeSouza CREATIVE DIRECTOR Balan Iyer GRAPHIC ARTIST Melany Caguindagan Besa PHOTOGRAPHER Benjamin H. UAE ISSN 0964 8437 PUBLISHERS Prof..and dont really integrate with them. which is what cant be said for many other countries. Prabhu Guptara Santosh Shetty FOUNDER EDITOR Frank Raj CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Erik R.be it Chinese. Please include more on this subject in every edition of TII. However.com Mob: +97150 457 3836 INDIA Rahul George | rahul@expat-group.. How do the Brits behave? Like they do in all once-colonised nations: “we are royalty”. socially keep to themselves.. Just to say keep up the good work. I dont think there is much appreciation for one another’s ways. Amita Sarwal Singapore Keep It Up I wrote an email applauding your magazine and it bounced back.com Mob: +91934 321 3411 8 Audited Circulation 26. The attitude of minority of the people still continues to be: if you dont tread on my patch (space.com The best letters to the editor will win exquisite gifts from Liali Jewellery.com Mob: +973-3910 6690 QATAR Merwyn Ferrao |
[email protected] Mob: +974-611 5525 UAE Peter Souri Raj | psr@expat-group. Is there any kind of one-upmanship and any community that acts as if its preferred? Yes. But if you do.bpaww.com The International Indian . Authoritative Magazine of Gulf Indian Society & History Indian THE INTERNATIONAL Letters to the Editor One-upmanship in Singapore This is an amalgamation of what a friend and I think. Sheena Desai Berkeley. com A The fixed price dinner typically comprises local seafood. But the crowning attraction is the restaurant. 236 Hurumzi Book a room in Zanzibar’s 236 Hurumzi Hotel-you won’t want to check out.com 236 Hurumzi Street. the semiautonomous island off Tanzania. filled with good wine and fine food. turmeric. nutmeg. one of the most romantic spots on the planet. antique furnishings. 255-(0)777-429266 • Email: 236hurumzibooking@ zanlink. 255-(0)777-423266 • Fax: 255-(0)242232327. it feels like being on a five-star magic carpet. Zanzibar. 236 Hurumzi Hotel recreates the wondrous atmosphere and grandeur of the past by providing traditionally elegant accommodation.O. and cinnamon. The brilliant-hued canopy above me flaps in the evening breeze that blows in from the Indian Ocean. the hotel has 24 rooms. 236 Hurumzi Hotel entrance www. once the home of one of the richest men in the Swahili Empire. original stucco decor.com • Inquiries: anything@ 236hurumzi. In the heart of Zanzibar’s old Stone Town is a beautifully restored palace. We’re dining in the roofless rooftop restaurant of the 236 Hurumzi Hotel in Zanzibar. humid climate: cloves. Frank Raj is TII’s founder-editor and publisher Phone: 255-(0)242232784.236hurumzi. ceiling fans.By: Frank Raj Editor ' s PICK Ballroom Suite: the grandest hotel room in Zanzibar Zanzibar’s Period Luxury Hotel s the sun sets across the rusting roofs of Stone Town. the cry of the local muezzin merges with the chimes from a Hindu temple that lifts skyward. ornately carved doors. meat and vegetables infused with the spices that thrive in Zanzibar’s hot. and each is exquisite: the North Room features a large stone bath built into an open-air verandah with views across the city: the Crystal Room houses two antique beds and a hand blown glass chandelier. Once the opulent palace of a wealthy Swahili trader. Seated on sumptuous Arabian cushions. P. Box 3417. and unique stone baths are featured throughout the hotel. Tanzania CONTACT: The International Indian 9 . Spacious airy rooms. Education Higher Education in the UAE Over the last decade the UAE has made significant strides in education, attracting major universities from India and western countries to tap the growing need for college education and vocational training in the region. TII evaluates some of the opportunities available in the UAE. By: Reena Amos Dyes ime was when UAE residents, nationals and expatriates alike, sent their children outside the country for higher studies as good universities and colleges were unheard of in the region. Then shortly after the nation was born 40 years ago, the first university, the UAE University was opened in Al Ain. As the government realised the importance of providing quality higher education facilities within the country itself, the floodgates were opened and universities of international repute T started flocking to the UAE. In 2003, Dubai set up the Dubai Knowledge Village and in 2007 it launched the Dubai International Academic City. Both these education zones house globally recognised universities, training centres and e-learning institutions. Not surprisingly, the overall literacy rate in the UAE is 91% and more and more youngsters passing out of High School opt to study in the UAE. The International Indian now brings you a ready reckoner of the higher education options that are available for your child in Dubai. 10 The International Indian University: Manipal University, Dubai Top three courses: Undergraduate Degree in Engineering, 4 years. Bachelors in Business Administration, 3 years. Bachelors in Media & Dr. B. Ramjee, Director Communication, 3 years. Cost: Undergraduate Degree in Engineering will cost you Dhs 37,000 per year while a BBA and a BA in Media & Communication will cost you Dhs 35,700 per year. Who qualifies?: Admission to the above programs are open to students who have passed the qualifying 10+2 examination or its equivalent from a recognized board with at least 50% aggregate marks. Recognition: Manipal University, Dubai is a branch campus of Manipal University, India. Degrees are awarded from Manipal University, India and have acceptability across the world and in the Middle East. Why should you attend?: “Manipal University has a track record of excellence in the Middle East spanning over a decade. Beyond the state-of-theart laboratories, classrooms and extensive sports facilities that are offered in our newly-constructed 750,000 sq ft. campus at Manipal University, Dubai, I would recommend this university for the most comprehensive and holistic undergraduate experience offered to students at an affordable cost. Manipal University’s reputation in higher education has been well documented for over five decades and students at Manipal University, Dubai have the same opportunity to be a part of a globally reputed higher education brand.” University: SP Jain Top three courses: Global MBA, 1 year. Residential across 3 cities, Dubai, Singapore and Sydney. Executive MBA, 2 years. Global BBA, 4 years. Residential Professor Christopher across 3 cities, Singapore, Dubai, Abraham, Head, Dubai Sydney. Campus, Senior VP Cost: The Global MBA will cost you Institutional Development approximately Dhs 150,000 for the entire course, while the Executive MBA is approximately Dhs 63,000 and the BBA Global is Dhs 283,000. Who qualifies?: Students must complete Grade 12 and meet the minimum evaluation criteria for each program. For the Global BBA you need 75% in grade 12, while for the Global MBA and Executive MBA you need 65%. Recognition: SP Jain is licensed by the KHDA, accredited by the Department of Education and Training, New South Wales, Australia, registered by the Council for Private Education, Singapore and the degree is recognised globally. S P Jain’s MBA programs are recognised and accredited by The Association of MBAs, UK. Why should you attend?: “We are a visionary global business school with a number of pioneering initiatives, to our credit. We provide our students with exposure to an exclusive multi-campus, business environment. Our programs are taught by an internationally renowned faculty. We have a unique pedagogy which blends academic rigour with experiential focus. We believe in the holistic development of students, blending soft and hard skills to create managers and leaders. Plus, we have 100 % placement success across the globe.” University: Skyline University College Top three courses: BBA in International Business, 3.5 to 4 years. BBA in Marketing and Finance, 3.5 to 4 years and MBA Cost: While the BBAs will cost you Dhs 141,500 for the entire programme, MBA programs are offered at Dhs 81,500. Who qualifies?: A school graduate has to have a minimum 60%. TOEFL with a score of 500 or IELTS with a band of 5 or more. SAT score of 500 or Skyline Math qualifying exam has to be cleared. Nitin Anand, Director Recognition: The University degree is acceptable anywhere in the world because it is officially attested and accredited by MOHESR. Why should you attend?: “The courses and programs are well received by the government and private sectors of the UAE. 90 per cent of our graduates are either placed or establish their own enterprise. Being accredited by the MOHESR, being a member of the AACSB, USA and ACBSP, USA assures students that they will have quality driven development. Students who pass out from Skyline stand out in a competitive work environment and progress towards their personal and professional goals and aspiration in life.” The International Indian 11 Education University: Murdoch Top three courses: Bachelor of Commerce, 3 years. Media Communication and Culture, 3 years. MBA, 16 months. Cost: For MCC and Bachelor of Commerce it’s Dhs 46,000-60,000 per year, while an MBA will cost you Dhs 86,000 per year. Professor John Grainger, Who qualifies?: Students needs to have an average of 65% in at least four subjects. IELTS or Pro-Vice Chancellor/ TOEFL is required for students following the Indian curriculum. Executive Vice President Recognition: Murdoch provides internationally recognized degrees. Why should you attend?: “Our sole aim is to ensure that our students are equipped with the skills and confidence to pursue their dreams and achieve success in this ever-changing world. At Murdoch, students benefit from gaining a prestigious Australian degree while still retaining the comfort and support of their friends and families in the UAE. Our student-focused ethos, our insistence on maintaining the highest international teaching standards and our state-of-theart facilities have allowed us to establish an international reputation for exceeding graduate expectations.” ‘‘ Dubai’s Academic City has created a unique college campus environment that matches any fine college campus in the West University: American University in Dubai Top three courses: Bachelor of Architecture, 5-year program. Bachelor of Business Administration, Tala K. Makhlouf, 4-year program. Director of Admissions Bachelor of Communication and Information Studies, 4-year program. Cost: Dhs 34,500 per semester. Who qualifies?: 60% and above average in the Senior Board Examination (10+2) is required for admission. Recognition: The AUD is licensed by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, (MOHESR). AUD is approved to operate by the State of Georgia Non-public Post-secondary Education Commission. It is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education located in Olathe, Kansas and the International Advertising Association in New York. Why should you attend?: “It is widely believed that American education is synonymous with “quality” as it follows a curriculum that imparts general knowledge but also allows for significant specialization. Its teaching methods develop in students strong skills in critical reasoning and accurate and persuasive self-expression and instill in students an appreciation for life-long learning. AUD seeks to duplicate this American recipe for success. Syllabi and textbooks are often the same as those used in similar courses taught in the US. AUD’s curricula across its degree-granting disciplines are skill-directed and career-oriented, which is the need of the hour.” University: SAE Institute. Top three courses: Bachelor of Audio Production, 2 years. Bachelor of Film Production, 2 years. BA/BSc (Hons) Predrag Toncev, Web Development, Campus Manager 2 years. Cost: Fees for the Bachelor degree programmes start at Dhs 131,100 for the entire course. Who qualifies?: Students need passing grades in A Levels. Alternatively, students with a passing grade in O Levels can apply to our degree programmes by taking our initial foundation course. Recognition: Our courses are internationally accredited and recognised. Why should you attend?: “SAE Institute Dubai offers state-of-the-art facilities, industry experienced lecturers, practical classes, accelerated learning with recognised qualifications and extensive opportunities within the digital media industry in this region. Our quality is not only assured by the KHDA but NSW Department of Education and Training in Australia and Middlesex University in the UK. We believe in nurturing and helping to develop creative talent in the region by offering hands-on, practical academic programmes.” 12 ‘‘ The International Indian REEF MALL 04-2247475. DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY 055-2136300 .LAMCY PLAZA 04-3583624. specialist areas. Why should you attend?: “We are committed to continuous improvement and development in all our activity.” “Go West Young Man!” does not necessarily apply anymore .” 14 The International Indian ‘‘ University: Amity. UK. 3 years.Education University: Heriot-Watt Top three courses: Business Administration. Tech. Cost: While the French Higher Diploma Fashion Design costs Dhs 60 000 per year. Cost: The fee structure varies between Dhs 35. Students who don’t qualify directly can pursue the foundation programme and upon successful Professor Ammar Kaka. Creations and Expertise Training course costs anything between Dhs 7000 to Dhs 37. • B. Who qualifies?: Students with 60% in CBSE Grade 12 examination or equivalent. completion of the foundation can progress to their chosen undergraduate programme. industry leaders and global frontrunners. Recognition: Recognition and equivalence of certification vary from country to country. Who qualifies?: Students applying for the undergraduate course require a minimum aggregate of 50 per cent in class 10 and 12. Fashion Design Foundation. Founder Perfume Discovery. the Fashion Design Foundation costs Dhs 50. ‘‘ .000 to Dhs 50. 1 year. This is a unique initiative available only at Esmod Dubai.000 per annum. Our focus is on responding to the changing needs of business. Foundation (Degree Entry Programme). 4 years. Why should you attend?: “A top ranked educational institution in India. Nanotechnology. 3-4 years.000 and the Perfume Discovery. Engineering. Dr. 3-4 years.000. students can join the Esmod Fashion Designer Incubator Pool which is a retail fashion store where they can launch their brands by selling their collection there. • B.000 per year. T. Solar and Academic Head Alternate Energy. Vice Principal. The Foundation (Degree Entry Programme) will cost you Dhs 27. Coupled with best in-class faculty that encourages a wellrounded academic and personal development experience. Amity University is envisioned to empower students with the ability to become critical thinkers.Sc. Chemistry and Biology is required depending on the programme that they opt for along with a proficiency in English. 1 year. an aggregate of 60 per cent in Physics.500 per year. Building on established expertise in key. Tech. Once they graduate. Dubai and is recognised in India too. Why should you attend?: “Esmod is the only institution in the Middle East that is fully dedicated to professional fashion education as per French couture skills and standards. Towards this direction. & Managing Director Creations and Expertise Training.there are good options in the UAE for graduate and postgraduate studies. Cost: While the Business Administration degree will cost you Dhs 39. Executive Recognition: Degree certificate issued at the Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus is identical Dean and Head of the to the one issued at our Edinburgh campus. our aim is to produce the next generation of leaders and thinkers who make a difference in the world. the curriculum prepares students for the competitive global environment. R. the Dubai Campus is also approved by the KHDA. Recognition: All these courses are recognized internationally. Top three courses: • B. the Dubai campus offers 22 industry-specific courses that meet the demands of the UAE market.000. Who qualifies?: Anyone who has passed high school from a recognised school anywhere in the world.” University: Esmod Top three courses: French Higher Diploma Fashion Design and Pattern Making. Esmod graduates receive training from internationally recognized professionals. Venkatesh. 4 years. Tamara Hostal. qualify. 1 to 6 months. In addition. industry and society and finding solutions to the global challenges of the 21st century. 3 years. Additionally. Chemistry and Maths or Physics. undergraduate programmes in Engineering will cost you Dhs 45. The university is accredited and approved by the Dubai Campus Royal Charter. Forensic Science. This model will ensure that there is a continuous supply of experienced and quality medical professionals across societies. equity and sustainability Health work force development Corporates. The idea is to promote universal health care through intervention into the education system by sponsoring a student. through the beneficiary students. into different aspects of health care across geographies and sectors. It is an opportunity to develop a global partnership for health development. Ajman. provides a global platform for corporates.7431333. philanthropists.The ‘Care & Share’. Box: 4184. The main objective of the model is to identify the health workforce bottlenecks and resolve them to deliver essential and quality health services. service organizations. sponsored by various corporates and others. Tel: +9716. United Arab Emirates. service organizations. O. Sponsor A Medical Professional Program. non-governmental organizations and agencies of the State to contribute their mite in resolving the dearth of medical professionals all over the world.gmu. NGOs & agencies of the State: • Encourage research and higher studies in medical education • Take a new step toward a welfare state • Improve your Social Accountability • Advocate and Support the change • Build your reputation through merchandising • Name/logo on all promotional media for the program • Company/Government spokesperson can speak at academic events • Differentiate yourself from the competitors by joining this human cause with global and national • visibility – spread the good will of the company/country. By helping emergence of a medical professional. you are in turn saving thousands of lives in the decades to come.ac. philanthropists. Gulf Medical University Sponsor students for medical education Corporates and Agencies of Governance Create a multiskilled primary care workforce Provide the best educational programs Encourage trained professionals in community development Provide career framework for unregistered staff Actively engage people in shaping development. Web:www. Fax: +9716 -7431222 E-mail: gmcajman@eim. • Have vision for legacy • Improve your relation with the stake holders • Improve international/foreign relations • Increase your business prospects • Amplify your CSR initiatives Learn from the world The International Indian P.ae. and having studies.ae 15 . ” Reena Amos Dyes is a freelance writer based in Dubai. UOWD programs are accredited by the MOHESR. icaew.com/icai or email middleeast@icaew. At UOWD. This would mean you have to complete one ICAEW exam and the online ethics training and assessment programme to become an ICAEW chartered accountant and gain the ACA qualification.400.Education University: University of Wollongong in Dubai Top three courses: Bachelor of Business Administration. quality must be the most important factor. curricula and 65% from an Indian State Board. and when a student is going through their selection process. UAE ICAI Members If you are a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) with two or more years’ of ICAI full membership and two or more years’ (http://www. Bachelor of Computer Science. quality. UOWD represents the very best in education quality.com/en/join-us/members-of-other-bodies/icai-members-join-icaew/india/) appropriate work experience. you may be eligible for exam exemptions for 14 of the 15 Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales (ICAEW) exam modules. Cost: Fee for the entire course is Dhs 173.com 16 The International Indian . 4 years. Bachelor of Commerce. For further details of your route to membership. and in the simplest terms. 4 years. Why should you attend? “Overwhelmingly. Who qualifies?: Students with 55% in Grade 12 with CBSE and ICSE Raymi van der Spek. Recognition: The university is recognised internationally and all it Executive Director.icaew. please visit www. 4 years. we combine quality with an excellent international and multicultural environment that is a bonus to any student’s learning experience. Yu loeor e u& or o’ l l v u mn u m n wll eyubc.K WAT .e s n tios ur i tu d li s eio & cu n tios ur i tu n tios h i s ur i co e tu c Id le t n ug n h si ly opt i at d li -o t e-s i i h cy f ve s a Faof lof lvrl-ru u ns d li -o t e-s i i h cy n tios h i s ur i co e tu c D i Ct C ne -Mi i Ct C ne -T eDbi l er i e tr a y r f i e tr d y h ua Ma l H n r? a 8 04 0 u gy C l 0 l 5 1 d li -o t e-s i i h cy d li s eio & cu n tios ur i tu U . eu i o l v o ak Id le t n ug n n tios ur i tu Id le t n ug n n tios ur i tu f vru l of l a f vru l of l a d li s eio & cu n tios ur i tu n tios h i s ur i co e tu c d li s eio & cu n tios ur i tu d li -o t e-s i i h cy n tios h i s ur i co e tu c Faof ln s lvru.e d li -o t e-s i i h cy h si ly opt i at d li -o t e-s i i h cy h si ly opt i at d li -o t e-s i i h c Id le t n ug n n tios ur i tu f vru l of l a d li -o t e-s i i h cy Faof ln s lvru.e s Faof ln s lvru.K . . .A S h si ly opt i at .E A U I . it is imperative that one selects the field of study based on our likes. the scenario is totally different. RIGHT: Indian High School. In the past. applying for colleges and choosing what to study seemed like the most intimidating decision I had to make in my entire life! So I know what you are going through. Canada. In one’s lifetime. The International Indian . In one’s lifetime. capabilities. or elsewhere? You are not alone. When I was in high school. one takes on multiple careers and numerous jobs. Today. people switch jobs and change professions with no qualms. my father for example worked in the same field and the same office for thirty six years. one takes on multiple careers and numerous jobs. we fear that we will be trapped in that field. personality. the scenario is totally different. While it is foolhardy not to consider the market situation and the emerging careers.Education The Next Step In the past. By: Rema Menon A plethora of possibilities await you and your child. Self awareness is key in the process of career exploration and planning. people switch jobs and change professions with no qualms. breathe easy and understand that people go through changes all the time. Dubai students discussing options Photo by: Santhosh Harry I 18 s your child in grade twelve? Is he or she spending more time worrying about what to do next rather than preparing for the boards? Is he or she anxious about leaving home? Do you feel like helping out to fast track them to university after their O levels? Are you confused about whether to remain in UAE. aptitude. a career was a lifetime obligation. Most youngsters are daunted by the dizzying array of options available to them. values. go to your home country. UK. mostly because they had no idea what they were really getting into. Today. If you feel that way. US. ranging from actuarial sciences to zoology. Although the Internet is filled with information on careers in every available field. a career was a lifetime obligation. Self awareness is key in the process of career exploration and planning. hopes and desires. Another opportunity to understand various vocations is to work as a volunteer or intern in a company in your field of interest. Initially. For most students. Educational exhibitions like the Gulf Education and Training Exhibition are also important to understand what is available out there not only within the UAE but in various countries overseas.counsellingpoint. values.Rema Menon V is the Director of Counselling Point Educational & Social Services in Dubai www. We need to constantly introspect and look within ourselves to understand our innate abilities. This is true whether a student chooses to go abroad to university. working style. However. The experience can strengthen your resolve or make you understand the challenges in the field and perhaps change direction. or is that something that you want for him or her? You can definitely guide your child in the right direction while they choose a university and a field of study but in the end all you can really do is make sure your child is well-informed and that they make the best decision for themselves. We need to be lifelong learners and constantly upgrade our skills to remain in the profession or move on to diversify our skill sets. Getting involved. If you need to re-qualify to get into another field of interest. you start refining your search and become more discerning. sports or cultural events makes one aware of our capabilities and helps hone skills. ‘‘ 19 . leadership initiatives. Another useful tool would be recording one’s dreams.com The International Indian ‘‘ inherent aspirations and goals. There are substantial benefits to attending university in another country. The young person will experience culture shock. Career Fairs hosted by schools are a good starting point to understand the courses on offer and the pre-requisites for entry. not a destination. we owe this to ourselves but a lot depends on the situation of the individual and the family. make the best of it! Another useful tool would be recording one’s dreams. While parents have a say in where their child attends university – whether in a country you are living in as a family or abroad. learn how to deal with challenges like language barriers. we are able to identify what motivates us and gives us joy. We need to invest in ourselves. this critical choice is ultimately about what will make your child happy – not only during the university years but also as an independent individual later in life. Finding the right career is a journey. being far from home etc. the exhibitions and fairs can be rather overwhelming but as you begin to explore. or a family living abroad decides that their child should attend university in their home country. if the student is immature and not ready for the transition. aspirations. As an international student one will meet and make friends with other students from all over the world. Does your child actually want to go abroad. academic strengths and hobbies in a journal form. look upon it as an investment. and if they are open to new experiences there is an extraordinary amount for them to learn. and it is one that shapes and influences that student’s life and impacts the family. experiences. If one is totally confused and unsure of what to select. academic strengths and hobbies in a journal form. As we become increasingly aware of ourselves. aspirations. Director of Counselling Point at an exhibition with parents and students very different from one they already know. aptitude and career preference. understand and assimilate facts. choosing a university is the first important decision they will make as adults. The next step is filled with possibilities. psychometric tests can be administered that are strong indicators of personality traits. the experience can be extremely difficult. experiences. A student from abroad is thrust into an environment that may be Rema Menon (middle). be it in community service projects. style of teaching. This will give a peek into the world of work in that area of specialization. both for the individual as well as the family. Lifetime friendships and careers are born from these experiences. such as the IITs. : You have called India a scientific backwater. Institute of Science. but little concrete action. Philip G. USA. the situation has not changed. Altbach: Will India be able to take advantage of its “demographic dividend”? 20 The International Indian .” Dr. But overall it is has mediocre higher education. and some others. There is no way this will change unless the 20. “Grand plan or mission impossible?” PA: There are some good ideas coming from government about changing higher education through the Knowledge Commission and others. Q By: Frank Raj Dr. TII interviewed him after his visit to Kerala for an education conference on reform policies and parliamentary discussions on India’s plans for educational reform. do you think India will succeed in overhauling its education system? PA: India is a very complex country—there are a few pinnacles of excellence.000 plus undergraduate colleges are reformed and the 400 or so mainstream universities are also Q changed—and I see no plan to do this! : What has changed since you wrote your article. So on balance. Altbach is Director of the ‘Center for International Higher Education’ at Boston College. One of the problems is that India simply spends too little on postsecondary education.Education Indian Education: Grand plan or mission impossible? “Overall India Has Mediocre Higher Education. and these are in very short supply. done very well given its educational deficits.000 undergraduate colleges steeped in bureaucracy and outmoded teaching methods? PA: There is of course a certain amount of corruption. India will not be able to take advantage of its “demographic dividend” – its large population of young people—if those people are not well educated. India has. has made these achievements. Kerala because of forward-looking Q Indian students in the Gulf have good options to study overseas rather than return to India government policy over time. : What is the government proposing that was opposed? PA: The spearhead of internationalisation is the plan to open India’s higher education system Q Q : Why hasn’t this happened so far? Q Q The International Indian ‘‘ 21 India’s IITs face serious staffing problems as many of their academics are reaching retirement age. Jayaram and I wrote in The Hindu some time ago. : What was the reaction to education reform being discussed by the government? PA: The conference was unsurprisingly critical of most of the measures. Bureaucracy is a more serious problem. It is less marketoriented and commercialised than up north.PA: I did my doctoral dissertation research in India 40 years ago and have kept up an interest—and admiration—for India since then. : What are your views on India’s foreign education providers bill? PA: I am not in favor of it mainly because India does not have the capacity now to supervise the possible influx of foreign initiatives. but that should not prevent reforming higher education. : You have observed that a state like Kerala has universal literacy. What Kerala lacks are a few really top-class universities and it does not seem to have a vibrant entrepreneurial environment. If it could combine its educational advantage with entrepreneurialism. PA: Yes. Further. ‘‘ . : What do you see as the impact of a mediocre higher education system for decades on a country like India? PA: As N. in fact. The overriding criticisms involved the underlying commitment to align Indian higher education with the global trend towards commercialising higher education and the uncritical linking of India to the global knowledge economy. the amounts of funding being made available for these initiatives is completely inadequate. : How would you compare the progress of India’s main competitors with India over the last decade? PA: India gets very poor marks when compared to China and East Asia. has been ruled by mild-mannered Communists who have had power off and on for the past half century. a lack of visible poverty. But I do not think it will have a major impact anyway because of the conditions placed on foreign entry into the India higher education market. it would have a powerful combination. Q Q PA: Kerala. in striking contrast to much of the rest of India. and a higher education Q Q : What is your interest in India? access rate of about 18 per cent . : How can a country like India change with its 400 odd universities and 20. it is not bad. Compared to its South Asian neighbors. it needs well trained professionals.double the national average. As the Indian economy gets more sophisticated. and so is the lack of practical proposals and especially the willingness to implement change. The current plans. : How is the government proposing to go ahead with its plans? PA: A proposal to set up a powerful panel to rule on a range of higher education issues faced criticisms. do little to change India’s 20. will do little to change India’s 20. the existing IITs face serious staffing problems as many of their academics are reaching retirement age. incomplete plans for specific agencies. as did a bill that would set up tribunals to adjudicate problems in the system. It is all daunting . since there are simply not enough high-quality academics to take up jobs in these new institutions. Q Ill-fated reform plans. promising a dozen or more “world-class research universities” in a short period of time.currently steeped in bureaucracy and outmoded teaching methods . Perhaps they just want to get the country’s higher education system out of its lethargy.perhaps the most significant issue is personnel. not tied to the legislation.Education to foreign institutions. the flaws in India’s grand plans seem rather clear. Q Q Indian students in Dubai Photo by: Santhosh Harry the ill-fated reform proposals of the past. Additional proposals.perhaps a “mission impossible”. the amounts of funding being made available for these initiatives is completely inadequate. The problems involving all of the proposals are manifold . Without grappling with the existing universities. Some saw the proposals as a kind of “new neocolonialism”. The critics pointed to problem after problem in the legislation: unclear wording. Indeed.000 undergraduate colleges 400-plus universities steeped in bureaucracy and outmoded teaching methods. and for their unrealistic expectation that foreign institutions would provide significant access to new ideas for India’s admittedly moribund academic system. like many of ‘‘ Manipal University students in Dubai Photo courtesy Manipal University yet-to-be-determined foreign institutions and initiatives.000 undergraduate colleges . what do you think? PA: He has by fiat set up at least one central government university in each of India’s states and proposed expanding the number of Indian Institutes of Technology and Indian Institutes of Management. also seem rather unrealistic. Frank Raj is TII’s founder-editor and publisher 22 ‘‘ Q : Kapil Sibal. : Is there a north – south divide in education policy? PA: There was wide criticism of “dictation from Delhi” and the “regulation raj” of too much centralisation of a higher education system that has traditionally given a great deal of autonomy to the states . and other lapses. reform will be very incomplete.as stipulated in India’s Constitution. Further. The proposals were condemned for their uncritical acceptance of some good ideas. unrealistic expectations for committees. : Viewed from down south.and little to reform the country’s 400-plus universities. the Minister of Human Resource Development seems to have The International Indian . PA: Perhaps the Delhi power elite believes that change can come on the cheap with halfbaked plans. . 24 The International Indian . Changes to the broader company took longer.” is something every leader eventually faces. Phil began the session by stating. They change a few policies. but others I knew I had to change in order to improve the operating results. Leaders often wonder why they can’t get traction in making the changes they know are necessary. TII introduces the Michael Hyatt column on Intentional Leadership: “How to Change Organizational Culture. Become aware of the culture.” This is something every leader eventually faces. Start by creating three lists: • What should stay? Write down the aspects of your culture that you like and want to preserve. and the stories they tell about their success and failures. 2. the way people express themselves (particularly their language). Assess your current culture. It’s simply the environment we live in. “culture triumphs vision. I was immediately aware of the culture. They might even replace a few key people.” I agree completely. They articulate a new vision. as my responsibilities grew. The operating results also improved dramatically. our topic was “How to Change Organizational Culture. but. Based on my experience. But nothing substantive changes. As an outsider. Begin to notice its characteristics. The problem is that culture is largely invisible to those inside of it.Leadership How do you change Organizational Culture? n a panel discussion led by media consultant Phil Cooke. It’s like water to a fish or air to a bird. I faced this when I came to Thomas Nelson in the late 1990’s. they eventually took root as well. By: Michael Hyatt O The changes in my area of responsibility happened quickly—within the first eighteen months. here are six steps you can take to change the culture of your organization: 1. Pay attention to shared values. There were many aspects of it I loved. When you start getting sick of hearing yourself talk about it. Making Vision Stick). you must be intentional. Share the vision with everyone. This is something altogether different. Imagine you are working with a blank sheet of paper and anything is possible. In fact. At Thomas Nelson. I think it had a great deal to do with why I kept getting promoted. their values. If they are not willing to change their behavior and model what you are trying to create. That is exactly how I did it at Thomas Nelson. Envision a new culture. What would the ideal culture look like? Write it down in as much detail as possible. their behaviors. Think of it as a conspiracy. If you change their attitudes. You have to articulate in a way that is compelling and specific. ‘‘ .com The International Indian ‘‘ 25 The problem is that culture is largely invisible to those inside of it. If you don’t. but in the positive. It’s simply the environment we live in. nothing will change in the organization. vision leaks (see his book.” And by the way.At Thomas Nelson we had a performance culture that focused on profitability. The culture of a company is the behavior of its leaders.michaelhyatt. Is it possible to change the culture of your organization? Absolutely. Frankly. 6. I wanted to keep that. People were afraid to take personal responsibility and this created a lot of blameshifting. You have to keep speaking it until it takes root and begins to grow. • What is missing? Write down aspects of the culture that seem to be missing or weak. That may sound harsh. Initially. Keep speaking it!” Why? Because. their beliefs. understands what is at stake. It’s like water to a fish or air to a bird. you can change the culture of your department. 4. And you can’t just do this once. Michael Hyatt is the Chairman of Thomas Nelson Publishers www. “Be the change you want to see in the world. Get alignment from your leadership team. “Mike. Not in the negative sense. As Gandhi famously said. This is the fun part. that’s usually how it works. • What should go? Write down the aspects of your culture that must die if you are going to go forward. Model the culture you want to create. but it’s true. The only people who knew how the company was performing were those in top management. we had a “closed book” operating philosophy. I wrote down five pages of notes and then distilled it down to ten attributes. and we fine-tuned it. you will fail. I’m talking about more than agreement. One of my mentors said to me. you will change your culture. 5. I believed that if we practiced an “open book” philosophy and everyone knew how the company was doing. You and your team are conspiring together to make a positive change that will transform your organization. individual accountability was weak. This is why you must have alignment with your leadership team. and is willing to take a stand to make it happen. you must replace them. we could all work together to improve results. you’re only half done. You want a team that buys the vision. I started implementing what I am sharing here five years before I became the president of the company. division. you must keep casting the vision. At Thomas Nelson. 3. But like everything else in leadership. You need alignment. or operating unit. If you don’t. even if the people above you won’t change. the only existence vision has is in your words. Culture will not change unless you cast a vision for something new. begin to imagine what could be. Rather than simply complain about what is. as Andy Stanley has noted. We had to succeed financially in order to resource our mission. I then met with my leadership team. This became a blueprint for what we wanted to create. Reader’s Trip Advice iLove London ‘‘ Bird Safari London Eye Underground Big Ben What counts is what you do to make your experiences memorable. London is one city where no matter how many times you visit it is never the same. Underground Tube (its very easy with the map) WHO: Sarina Menezes, Hotelier, Writer, Mum and the ‘Hop On & Off’ London buses to two lovely munchkins and based now in HOTELS: Top hotels to simple, affordable and Mumbai, India since 2010. homely bed & breakfast accommodation. WHAT: London and England was our home SHOPPING: Oxford Street is a must! Harrods for a good 7 years. We explored every part of and the Chocolate Bar are places to die for. this beautiful country with lush countrysides, CAUTION: Umbrella necessary, avoid peak its erratic weather yet its beautiful seasons. hour traffic. Don’t carry cash and don’t travel London was always on our list because of its late night in the subways. attractions, culture and the diverse experience. Restaurants: London’s WHEN: Welcome Spring melting pot culture offers (March – May), Shop the world’s best cuisines. in Summer (June – Wembley for south Indian; September), Watch the Southall for Punjabi food. colors in Autumn (October But some of India’s best – November), Cuddle Chefs like Atul Kochhar, up in Winter (December Vineet Bhatia, Vivek Singh, to February). Although Camelia Punjabi have the it almost never snows in best Indian restaurants like London, in the last couple BENARES, CINNAMON of years the city has CLUB, CHUTNEY MARY, experienced a maximum TAMARIND TREE, BUDDHA of 2 inches of snow on an White Christmas in London BAR & BOMBAY BRASSERIE! odd day. But my favourite DON’T MISS: Must see season is SPRING! West End performances, great museums (free WHY: The buzzing mecca of Europe, London entry), London Greenwich, the Lords Cricket after Paris is the heart of Europe for its fashion, grounds, London Zoo and a show at Wembley! food, culture, shopping and attractions. UNIQUE: Take your family picture as if in WHERE: London is big and is divided into the Victorian times. It makes wonderful North London, South London, East and West memorabilia! London. Grab a map immediately – it’s your best guide! TII invites contributions for ‘Reader’s Trip Advice’ a new HOW: London is very well connected with series to share holiday experiences. Send details on your direct flights. London is best seen by the most recent trip to the Editor:
[email protected] 26 ‘‘ Travel Berlin & Leipzig With An Indian Slant! Once we were done with traipsing around Berlin we decided to go to Leipzig by train. You must try the sleek white ICE (Inter City Express). It is Germany’s answer to France’s TGV. Plus, if you are from a country like India with laughably outdated, dark, cramped, stuffy, smelly, rumbling train systems, you will be blown away by the ICE train. By: Marianne de Nazareth Y ou have been booked on a flight to Frankfurt today with an overnight stop. Then onwards to Berlin only tomorrow, said the perky Lufthansa airline assistant to me at the Bangalore airport. This was a traveller’s worst nightmare and besides opening and closing my mouth like a goldfish, I stood there paralyzed making her totally impatient. My flight was meant to take me directly to Berlin with a short stopover at Frankfurt, so I was flummoxed with the bookings done for me. Summarily from being a revered first class passenger – at the invitation of the International Travel Forum 2011, a senior official materialised and I was moved out of The Hauptbahnh - Central Station the regular queue, luggage and all to ponder what decision I was going to take. “Take me directly to Berlin if that is possible,” I requested the cold, unhelpful manager and that is how I landed in the Raddisson Blu in Berlin, a whole day earlier than scheduled. I have learnt with experience that a day extra in the west can be handled safely for a woman travelling alone, rather than an extra day in any of our cities in India. Dragging my case out of the Berlin airport, it was nice to be greeted with balmy weather as it was my first trip to the erstwhile East Germany and Berlin was a great place to start. Arriving on a Sunday, buses were off the road, but I got a TXL bus which took me to the Central Station or the Hauptbahnhof, erected as Europe’s largest station. Built by Gerkan one of Germany’s famous sons it’s a marvel of engineering and quite a tourist attraction. Gerkan also has the honour of being the architect of the Tegel Berlin airport. Arriving in the month of May, spring, fresh flowers, green trees, and blazing sunshine greeted us wherever we went. As we waited for 28 The International Indian . For food. just use public. It is Germany’s answer to 40E which is amazingly affordable. Plus. that Alexander Platz has to offer. You must designer and branded stuff only. their asparagus is to die for! But I’ll let you into a secret – I just lived on strawberries. We finally ended up past the famous Brandenburg Gate and the double brick line which is all that is left of the Berlin Wall to the Central Station or the Hauptbahnhof. cramped. The try the sleek white ICE (Inter City ticket to our station cost us just 1. France’s TGV. completed as recently as the 1900’s. Of course mention must be A must see Neptunbrunnen fountain with its massive figure of the made of the Gendarmem God of the sea surrounded by larger than life mermaids and fish! Markt which dates back to the Napoleanic era with two hotel was. and most prefer this amazingly accurate device which is much easier to handle! After checking in and dumping our bags we took off to see the Marien Kirsche The famous Brandenburg Gate and the massive our S Bahn train which would take us to the Alexander Platz where our Neptunbrunnen. Later we climbed up to Hall which is home to the famous the upper floors to have a view of the Berlin Symphony Orchestra is situated. asked a young couple the way to Tickets can be had off the Berlin the Marien Kirsche (Marian Church) Hauptbahnhof station. affordable outdated. We started along the Karl Marx Allee which is lined with monument sized buildings built in the style of the Joseph Stalin era. we could not help but cathedrals which were identical and look around the spectacular and airy where the Konzerthaus or Concert train station. Mike brought the whole of sombre Berlin cracklingly alive to us with his motor mouth capacity and his never ending font of knowledge. if you are from even coming from India. We were also taken to the area where his secret bunker was and where he famously committed suicide along with his wife Eva Braun. The shops sold to go to Leipzig by train. four layers of trains that criss cross So once we were done with each other and the grand shopping traipsing around Berlin we decided mall on every floor. hop into any of the restaurants. keep your as the Radisson Blu hotel was just opposite. you Getting off at Kurzstrecke. smelly. Out popped a GPS device and in a trice we were told which way to go! No one carries maps anymore except for the older tourists. Express). cheese and sausages and if veggie. stuffy. The Neptunbrunnen fountain is a must tickets out ready and handy for the snazzy conductor as she comes IN BERLIN. Living in the Radisson Blu meant all we had to do was walk about rather than take a tour.Travel see with its massive figure of the god of the sea surrounded by larger than life mermaids and fish! It’s not a happy feeling walking literally through history with images of an aggressive Adolph Hitler flashing through our minds as we passed the iconic Reichstag building. when in Germany try their meats. plums and giant wedges of cheese the whole week through! 30 The International Indian . But we suggest. You even have a Sushi bar and a Kaiser for those looking for more spicy food. dark. I will be blown away by the ICE train.. Forget taxis a country like India with laughably in Berlin. but we did take the Insider Tour for a couple of hours handled superbly by a blue eyed Aussie named Mike Stack .. Churches and buildings in Berlin have been restored after World War II bombing. transport. rumbling train systems. . herb crepe with soy caviar. Felix Mendelssohn. Edward Greig. Napolean. Just behind the hotel there was a Rewe supermarket and lots of little shops and restaurants which made our stay easy. scallop carpaccio with lime and green asparagus was served as entrée while a musician regaled the guests. We took the ‘Notenspur’ music trail where we walked along a 5 km music trail taking us past the homes of the composers and musicians of Leipzig. It was clean chocolate cake with strawberry and comfortable and for 60 Euros a and basil fruit salad. Delice of smoked salmon. providing free Internet eat without guilt! access. only get imitation Chinese clocks Since we had come to in other parts of the world. And if you are a Bach aficionado. remember it gained its freedom only in October ’89 so the air of the past still clings strongly to the city and we did feel the difference to the Western part of the country here. organic fruit. along a Cuckoo clock. Of course night with a nice breakfast thrown my favourite indulgence brought in we enjoyed our week’s stay. She visited Leipzig as a media fellow of the ITF 2011. Check out if the Bach. Thomas’ Boys Choir).. for a gala sit down dinner amidst flowering magnolia trees just behind the conference venue. We are spoilt strawberries which was the only in Asia with even our airports dessert a diabetic like me could and cafes. Leipzig’s musical and cultural heritage precedes its fame and we were out to experience it. tinkling away on a stupendous Bluthner Gala sit down dinner hosted by the ITF 2011 for all those Grand piano. warm in the world as well. In fact a scene from Goethe’s Faust was set in Leipzig. go to the Opera house and enjoy performances including the superlative Thomanerchor (St. I enjoyed the dessert most of all who attended the forum in Leipzig which included fresh waffles with morello cherries be done online from any country and passion fruit foam.. India. The little boy voices are as clear as bells and far superior to womens soprano. a glint to my eye. Marianne de Nazareth is a freelance writer based in Bangalore. Schumann or Mendelsshon festivals are on when you visit as an open invitation has been made to tourists of the city. plums and peaches for the biggest clock in the store. Nietzsche. Schiller and Goethe all lived in Leipzig at one time. Germany for the International around to check. 32 The International Indian . This was where Johann Sebastian Bach. We joined the musical tour of the city as Leipzig carrys on its tradition of great musical performances. Clara Schumann. you will through the week. kept me happy and indulged all It’s worth the splurge. We were booked into the Vivaldi hotel in Leipzig which can IN LEIPZIG. a little in Alexander Platz in Berlin and veggie store brimming with large bargained in typical Asian style stawberries. The Gwendhaus Orchestra is famous and considered to be one of the finest orchestras in the world. But. Richard Wagner. Gustave Mahler lived and worked. With the day staying bright to way past 10 pm we did not have to rush before darkness fell to shop! Gouda Jung cheese wedges. for me particularly fond as I tracked down a great little shop am of fresh. crunchy Waffelrollchen and a big One of the many heritage homes which stand in packet of Feine Eierplatzchen immaculate condition in Leipzig found their way into my And of course.Travel Transport Forum 2011 we were invited on the last night. while in suitcase to take home to share in Germany don’t leave without Bangalore with the family.large tureens The only negative was the Internet of glazed and sliced fresh which did not work. Yes they are with a pile of German chocolates! hand crafted in Bavaria but I And. . The programme commenced with a welcome speech by Isobel Abulhoul. The heritage charm at House of Literature in Bastakiya was a perfect setting for this kind of a gathering. HE Consul General of India. T 34 The International Indian . Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Sanjay Verma had an informal discussion with Mini Nair. Adding a dash to it was the strategically placed firewood that added a touch of warmth to the chilly January air. The heritage charm of the House of Literature in Bastakiya was a perfect setting for this kind of a gathering. around 115 authors. As a part of EAFL’s Open Door series. writers and speakers from 25 nations will participate in this festival which has become a platform of conviviality and interaction amongst the world of literature lovers. he Emirates Airline Festival of Literature (EAFL) is back with a bang in its fourth edition -the Middle East’s largest celebration of the written word. HE Consul General of India. UAE Vice-President & Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai in partnership with Emirates Airline and the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority. Author of ‘The Fourth Passenger’ at the House of Literature in Bastakiya.Emirates Airline Festival of Literature The Fourth Passenger: By: Bandana Jain As a part of Emirates Airline Festival of Literature’s Open Door series. Dubai. Author of ‘The Fourth Passenger’ in Dubai. Sanjay Verma conversed with Mini Nair. . Consul General Sanjay Verma who also hails from Mumbai described the book as ‘chaotic and bubbly’. coming home to the ungrateful men in their lives!” The story revolves around four women with their unhappy marriages and the subsequent growth in their lives and the common element that they share in their livesrotten. • Good traits of an author . 36 The International Indian ‘‘ Director – Emirates Airline Festival of Literature. The book also enlightens us about the co-operative movement which brought about empowerment in the lives of these suppressed women. they have become idols. which goes on to signify that life is crowded though interestingly. superwomen of sorts. What Nair finds interesting is the movement of the lower class women oppressed by relationships. Lot of opportunities have struck the common man after India’s liberalization policies of 1991. The kindness of Mumbai attracts Nair’s book focuses on the fact that at a modest level. women are driven to a better life if they make use of their entrepreneurial skills. rape. watching cinema and doing nothing. “Since women are the worst hit in our Indian society.“Tomorrow is another day!” • Hobbies and interests .read voraciously and evolve your own style. Indian Consul General Sanjay Verma and Mini Nair shared their opinions and discussed the contents of her book ‘The Fourth Passenger’ in the presence of a huge literature-loving crowd. It is a lot like India. etc. atrocious husbands! The protagonists of the story are very prosaic and simple.” said Nair.travelling. why can’t I?” the protagonists reverberate this feeling throughout the story. The book also enlightens us about the co-operative movement. Sud Chemie. it is fast-paced but with oodles of pathos and sorrow in it. unlike the higher or middle –class educated women. ‘‘ . whose eatery is a co-operative movement by itself. Shah Rukh Khan slept on the promenade. Like a chaotic video game. This is an answer to many economic problems faced by India today. “But for humour.The two men in my lifemy father and my husband. India has given birth to five religions. inter-communal politics. Mumbai. “Women have unhappy marriages. who works as Head of Sales and Marketing. my book shows how women can empower themselves. It is known that before making it big in this city and owning his dream home Mannat. • Next project . The genesis of the book ‘The Fourth Passenger’ deals with the change that came about in the character of Mumbai city after the 1992 riots. Hence. cooking. it is a testament to an entire spectrum of ethnicity. The Indian middle class is already aping the West.Rahul Gandhihe represents modern India.divorce is on the increase. • Favourite quote .the first kiss.” adds Mini. none of the characters reach out to God. The book is a heady mix of interesting elements of life . People like Akshay Kumar have made it big in this city. The book is dark and noisy but ultimately optimistic. • Inspiration .Kiran Nagarkar • Favourite personality . The fact that Mumbai is especially kind to people who begin from streets is well portrayed. there is little of everything in this book. underworld. Women need to be more egalitarian. reading. “If Dhirubhai Ambani can do it. “Mumbai prepared us to be resilient. Dubai. women are driven to a better life if they make use of their entrepreneurial skills. • Tips for budding writers . Mini Nair • Favourite author .They need to come out of the shadow of men and become independent.consistency of language and a provocative inspirational story. you are married forever’ irrespective of the numerous atrocities inflicted on the women by their spouses.Emirates Airline Festival of Literature Musings from the author. Nair’s book focuses on the fact that at a modest level. • Message for Indian women . The central characters of this book are the most practical people I have ever met.” he added. The strata of society to which these women belong follows the phenomenon of ‘you are married.I plan to write a book on Bangladeshi immigration into India. • EAFL – a very encouraging platform that provides good interaction between readers and writers. they need to be assertive in a bad relationship. The greatest sociological experiment (because of democracy) goes on in India and Mumbai. The book essentially deals with deprived characters moving towards the centre. : Where can Mini Nair be seen in the book ‘The Fourth Passenger’? I can relate to the character of Farzana in my book. Q Isobel Abulhoul. which I was not prepared to do. That is why people come to this city. : You are a graduate in chemistry. UAE The International Indian 37 . She observes. I rather call it a secular fundamentalist story. It is imperative that tragedies are documented. we are bound to repeat them. Writing a book can be an ethereal experience by itself. my literary agent helped me a great deal in this respect. they are not perfect and hence. Emirates Airline Festival of Literature introduces HE Indian Consul General Sanjay Verma and Author. The fact is that if we do not document our tragedies. One interesting thing to note in the book is that there is no reference to the Government as if Mumbai is a no man’s land. When asked about her experiences of writing ‘The Fourth Passenger’.” Nair has made an intelligent observation and subtly incorporated the Mumbai riots in her book. : What inspired you to write this book? India is a fast moving economy and a force to reckon with. I took it on myself to document this message. None of the publishers were interested in publishing my book because of its connectivity with the Mumbai riots. All the characters of my story came in at the right time and exited at right intervals.” How was the experience of getting the book published? “My journey with publishing was terrible. The fact is that if we do not document our tragedies. yet most promising sections of Indian society. Director. Robin. how did you fall in love with writing? I always loved writing but science made my writing logical and structured. the outcome is in the form of a realistic story. : Why do children and women form the protagonists of your books? Women and children are the weaker. we are bound to repeat them. write books and create cinema to draw the attention of the masses towards these harsh realities of life so that society in general. but there is a great deal of femininity.We must draw paintings. gains the wisdom of not repeating it. They need to be empowered. Time has come when down -trodden should not be forgotten. Nair candidly replies. Each of them wanted me to change the story. A stark divide between high class and down-trodden society still exists in India. we also need to understand that the characters are all flawed. I firmly believed that my book did not mean ill at all. Flirtatious she may be. I believe Farzana is a martyr. not swept under the carpet. but I knew I had to write a nice story with powerful characters. Hardly any literature has been published about the Mumbai riots in 1992. “We do not like to document tragedies of life.” TII interviewed the author. Mini Nair. At the same time. Therefore. “I was full of doubts. people towards itself. Mini Nair at House of Literature in Bastakiya ‘‘ Hardly any literature has been published about the Mumbai riots in 1992. : Why did you choose riots as the setting for your story? The 1992 riots changed the face of Mumbai and the thinking of every Mumbaikar. Q Q Q Q ‘‘ Bandana Jain is a freelance writer based in Dubai. full of energy. Heritage hotels in India are those which at some point of time in history were fortresses and castles that were home to the rulers of the subcontinent. well preserved bastions of Indian history and still reverberate with ancient memories of royal rule. Consequently. a tribute to a time gone by never to return. For centuries. the defensive castle. these heritage S 38 The International Indian . palaces and estates that were formerly the habitats of the various ruling families that once held dominion over India. stunning spectacles. where hospitality was an integral part of life. the ancient fortress. many royal families found it difficult to maintain their huge properties.India: Once Upon A Time home of a great Maratha general In 1947. By: Frank Raj Reception area and former jail Photo by: Frank Raj Fort Jadhav Gadh in full view from the surrounding hills Photo by: Frank Raj cattered all across one-time princely India are hundreds of forts. the Government of India abolished royal titles and the concept of feudal lords and feudal ownership of lands in the princely states and withdrew the Privy Purse and special privileges to the royalty. and extravagant pageants. or the composite haveli -was the abode of royalty and the nobility. Today. Many of them are amazing. which lay almost abandoned or unattended till a few enterprising people realized that perhaps the only way to maintain these historic homes was to refit them as five star luxury hotels. décor and the style of hospitality remains as it was in the olden times in the various princely states. the last Mughal Emperor. Fort Jadhav Gadh lies in the heart of the Jadhavwadi – a 25 acre property. One such fascinating heritage property is the 300 year old ‘Fort Jadhav Gadh’ billed as ‘the world’s first museum hotel.511 feet above sea level. Shahuji outmaneuvered his aunt Tarabai in 1714. from age 7 to age 25 in the custody of the Mughals. Pillaji was a general in the army of Shahu Sambhaji Raje Bhosale Chhatrapati Maharaj (1682–1749). making the Maratha empire the largest in India at the time. influenced by Rajput and Mughal architecture. The International Indian 39 . but various other parts of India too have their own fascinating heritage properties. well preserved fort. and was officially the Raja of Satara (now in the state of Maharashtra). Chhatrapati Shivaji. carefully restored by the Kamat Group. to become the Chattrapati at the age of 26. which lay almost abandoned or unattended till a few enterprising people realized that perhaps the only way to maintain these historic homes was to refit them as five star luxury hotels. Consequently. remarkably favored in captivity by the Mughals. the Mughals raised him as a prince and he spent his entire childhood and youth. Being an excellent judge of character. The government withdrew the Privy Purse and special privileges to the royalty. In the year 1947. Shahuji’s primary accomplishment was in stabilizing the fractured Maratha empire after the defeat of the Mughals. Fort Jadhav Gadh was built in 1710 by Pillaji Jadhavrao a general in the army of Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj. carvings. one understands Pillaji himself must have been sturdy in mind and body as the stone structure he constructed. He was more popularly known as Chattrapati Shahuji. Shahuji was imprisoned by the Mughals at the age of seven. which is a fine example of Maratha craftsmanship. the grandson of the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji.TOP: Main entrance to the Fort and royal viewing gallery Photo by: Frank Raj RIGHT: Swimming pool and Butic Spa on top of the Fort Photo by: Frank Raj hotels are a special treat to the visitors. Situated in the beautiful rolling hills 22 km away from Pune on the old Pune – Satara Road at a height of 2. as those who run or maintain these hotels have made sure that the traditional work. with lavish architecture and décor. who survived a civil war to gain the throne in 1707. With the help of Bahadur Shah. he appointed a select group of men whose loyalty was unquestionable. Most of these heritage hotels were home to Rajasthani rulers. the fourth ruler of the Maratha Empire created by his grandfather. members of most of the royal families found it extremely difficult to maintain these huge buildings.’ It is the first in a series of heritage forts being developed in Maharashtra and other locations in India. remarkably. Studying the impressive. the Government of India abolished royal titles and the concept of feudal lords and feudal ownership of lands in the princely states. the de facto hereditary administrators of the Maratha rulers. so go there expecting something quite different. and they are designed seamlessly beside the massive walls of the fort. My credit card broke in 40 The International Indian . is a peaceful. Pillaji Jadhvrao died in 1784 after leading a long and fulfilling life of a patriot. His stories of valor and the way he could use the sword are still spoken about. out of the ordinary holiday experience. There are Maharaja and Museum Suites if luxury is your preference. If the brooding hills around are still quite deserted 300 years later. It was heroic men like Pillaji Jadhavrao who ensured the rule of Chhatrapati Shahuji who wisely governed with the help of his loyal Peshwas. product launches and theme parties can be majestic affairs. Fort Jadhav Gadh is surrounded by hills dotted with small villages.000 people – weddings. which is close by. you are far from the city and there are no crowds and very few homes around. He lost no time in gathering able men across the Jadhavgadhi and Saswad area and training them to fight. apart from the splendid dwelling of Pillaji Rao’s descendants. The designer bathrooms and rooms which have a charming character are called ‘Kholi’ in Marathi. which you can see in what is now the hotel’s reception area. Legend has it that this strongman proved his mettle every time someone dared to challenge the supremacy of the Maratha ruler.India: Once Upon A Time to recruit soldiers and recharge the quiescent emotions of the people. Room views offer breathtaking sights of the manicured lawns and the surrounding hills of the Western Ghats. Fort Jadhav Gadh. If you climb the hills within the hotel perimeter. you can imagine what it must have been like for a fort of this size to be located in such rugged country and defended against the enemies of Pillaji Jadhavrao who obviously had a need to build such a fortress in his day. Tasteful interiors offer a touch of heritage along with ultra-modern luxuries and staff uniforms with typical headgear replicating Maratha history. serving the Marathas and three generations of Peshwas. With the striking walls of the fort as the backdrop the hotel has the capacity to host 4. It was this select group of men of honor that Pillaji Jadhavrao was a TOP: Babasaheb Jadhav Rao. This is a fort where the granite stairway leading into it was designed to accommodate war elephants that walked right inside the fort. Jadhvrao had a favorite tusker and a huge stone feeding plate for the beast. and majestic air-conditioned tents for a different outdoors experience. flagging off the 2011 Heritage Drive at Fort Jadhav Gadh Photo by: Proactive Public Relations RIGHT: Pillaji Jadhvrao’s stone dinner plate for his favorite elephant Photo by: Frank Raj part of. you can get some superb photographs of the fortification from a distance – the gradient is quite steep so wear sensible shoes and clothing. on the NarayanPur. Aga Khan Palace. Jejuri – The village of Jejuri. Saswad – Just a ten minutes drive from Fort Jadhav Gadh is the prehistoric Purandar Wada known to be Maharashtra’s oldest standing structure and grand residence of the ruling Peshwas . Saras Baug. Vada-Pav.fortjadhavgadh. Purandar Fort – An ideal trekking destination. I enjoyed the Sabudana Khichdi. Mastani Lake in the depth of the valley. Purandar Wada. the Osho Commune international. Don’t forget to have one meal from the royal viewing gallery with its unique ambience and great views of the countryside. Bhakri Bread. Katraj Snake Park. which offer casual to all day dining.Saswad Road. Stuffed Brinjal. bar-be-cue to ethnic fine dining and al-fresco options to select from. perched on a huge mountain. Kofta Curry. Pune – Shaniwar Wada. Balaji Temple. Chhajja – The Coffee Shop (Multi Cuisine) At the regally done coffee shop on the upper-level of the fort. is located at the base of the fort and serves royal ethnic cuisine. bask in the glorious company of steaming coffee and delectable cuisine.com Frank Raj is TII’s founder-editor and publisher The International Indian 41 . Kelkar Museum. set amidst the most beautiful mountain ranges. Bhindi Masala Aamti. with an open-air kitchen. Parvati Hill. the Ethnic Foothill Restaurant. for lunch and dinner I had Chapatis. about 20 kms from the hotel. Puran Poli or Suji Halwa for dessert. Ketkawale – This temple is a magnificent replica of India’s world famous Tirupati Balaji temple. Authentic Maharashtrian cuisine is a treat. rounding off my meals with Modak. Fort Jadhav Gadh has excellent chefs and an array of choices to satisfy various culinary preferences in its two restaurants. so don’t keep your wallet in your rear pocket! When it comes to food. is famous for a beautiful temple on a hill with 200 steps. try it if you haven’t before – their Poori Bhaji for breakfast was excellent. Sinhagadh Fort are some sightseeing places in Pune which distinctly portray its cultural heritage. some 14 kms south west of the hotel. TOP: The granite stairway to the Fort was built to accomodate war elephants Photo by: Frank Raj LEFT: Designer rooms blend in nicely with ancient walls of the Fort Photo by: Frank Raj WHAT TO SEE Dive Ghat is a favorite with trekkers as well as nature lovers to get a panoramic view of the exuberant hills as well as the captivating HOW TO GET THERE Detailed instructions are available online: www.two when I was sliding down the hill. Payatha – Royal Ethnic Cuisine Payatha. The place really consists of two fortresses with the satellite Fort Vajragarh situated on the east of Purandar on a narrow ridge running out of it. www. and many more locations over the next five years. Mystic Valley Spa Resort combines high standards of service with the warmth of Indian hospitality and is ideal for corporate retreats. The state-of-the-art gymnasium at the Fitness Centre has the latest cardio and strength training equipment from Technogym. With generous living and dining area and en-suite bathroom.H-5 towards VITS Bhubaneshwar In VITS Bhubaneshwar Orissa Cuttack. AROGYA SPA has six exquisite treatment rooms. with personal trainers at hand to assist. More like a private country club than a typical holiday hotel. Nagpur.com 42 The International Indian . VITS Bhubaneshwar has two banqueting venues with all modern amenities and facilities. “It is a piece of paradise. Nashik and has ambitious plans to open in Delhi. Arogya offer treatments to assist in balancing the chakras and bringing wellness. Mystic Valley Resort is a boutique hotel resort. Solapur. for guests to revitalise and de-stress with local and traditional treatments. from the belief that if the six chakras in the body are aligned.bombaysalesoffice@gmail. including two couples’ suites and one Ayurvedic therapy room. 90 rooms under different categories have been recently re-launched and the pent houses on all top floors have incredible views . . Mystic Valley Resort Igatpuri Maharashtra Located 110 km from Mumbai. Orissa’s important commercial centre. close to the main market and commercial centre. has great privacy and lush surroundings. VITS Hotel.com Arogya Spa & Fitness CentreHyatt Regency Pune From the Sanskrit term Arogya.just right for large families. Bhubaneshwar is strategically located on the Cuttack-Puri main road at Laxmisagar Square which is 4. training programs etc. Kolhapur.India Travel Buzz T II’s column for India travel keeps you up to date on what’s happening on the tourism front in the country.5 km from the Airport and just 2 km away from the N. In tune with this symbolism. Beside the commercial advantages many housing schemes and apartments have come up in the location making VITS a meeting place for the locals too.com Website:. Guests can indulge in traditional massages or purifying facials. situated as it is. and even an in-house state of art business centre for the business traveller. and this part of the western Ghats will be the queen of hill stations”. each suite is designed to comfort and revitalize. Arogya Spa & Fitness Centre also houses a Yoga studio with shock-absorbent wooden flooring and a heated swimming pool.5 Km from the city railway station and 4. Email: .resvbhubaneshwar@vitshotels. which is as if time stood still. combining elegance. Pune. A wide range of Body Polishes and Scrubs concocted from a traditional mixture of Indian spices to promote deep cleansing. VITS Chain of Hotels has to date opened properties in Mumbai. VITS Bhubaneshwar has 70 well-designed rooms spread over 5 storeys.located 1.NCR .vitshotels. luxury and service. Aurangabad.5 Km from the city airport is the Khil Group’s first launch in Odisha. at Igatpuri on the Mumbai Nashik highway. The logo draws Six chakras in the body aligned. with spacious Banqueting facilities to meet every expectation. which means “complete wellness”. Arogya Spa & Fitness Centre at Hyatt Regency Pune is an idyllic sanctuary. product launches. “Igatpuri is the best hill station this side of the Western Ghats. relieve muscular soreness and improve blood circulation.” says Mr Anil Paranjpe MD and Ceo of Prolific Hotels. For Reservations Contact :. then the seventh chakra is naturally activated and the body is free from every ailment. nestled in the picturesque cliff valley at a height of 1900 feet above sea level. The resort spread out across 7 acres with Marketed by Prolific Hotels and Resorts five blocks each named after flower species. and the air is nature fresh. 2. 18500 ++ 2000 hours with cocktails & hors doeuvres. a sand pit and see saws. For kids there are several play areas with fun slides. 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Manas Lifestlye Resort. 20% discount on food and soft beverages at any of the hotel’s signature restaurants. 3.incl of food plan. 1 night deposit will be collected at the time of booking. amount deposited will be retained incase the booking is not cancelled two days prior to the day of arrival. laundry/ironing (4 pieces of garments/stay).park. 15 minutes from Dabolim Airport. buffet breakfast. The International Indian 43 . and Spa is an awardwinning hotel nestled along the pristine Arossim Beach. Conditions apply. Gyms and Swimming Pool.000 ornamental trees and flowering plants on various levels. Friday to Sunday. Nashik Maharashtra. Package includes: Oneway airport transfer. and a Spa coupon worth Rs 500/-. 60 minute Kaya Kalp signature relaxation ritual (1 guest/room). For 2 nights for a couple. the area is home to rare species of butterflies and birds and is a haven for Trekkers and Bird Watchers. Check out their Weekend Holiday Package. nestled in the picturesque cliff valley. 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For bookings contact: manasfrontoffice@prolifichotels. evening luxury club cours from 1800 to Special Mauryan Chamber Spa Package Rates starting at Rs. at Igatpuri on the Mumbai Nashik highway. the resort is mid way to Shirdi.hyatt. Tel: (971 4) 265 9888 Dinner with 12 Stars International Michelin Starred & Celebrity Chefs brought together at Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach for Stars. • From 6pm to 10. a Gala Dinner that will premiere in Dubai – a first for the Middle East region and the largest gathering of Michelin Starred chefs in the UAE. Lyon. 3rd of April 2012. at Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach for the Stars. decided to introduce this festival internationally at addresses of the luxury hotel group in Marseille. Luxury room from AED 5500 or two tickets and a Junior Suite from AED 6000. Located in front of Jumeirah Beach Residences. in consultation with the acknowledged culinary journalist and author Lise Goeman BorgesiusTimmer. • From 6pm to 10. Private guests and companies can make their reservation by contacting 04 448 4851 or via email H6146-FB2@sofitel. Armed with this success.com St. the Sofitel brand. Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach occupies a prime waterfront site in Dubai Marina. • Saturday. Food & Art. Dubai during the weekends. as well as surprising creations with friends or family. • AED 325 per person from 12pm to 3. the hotel is approximately 15 minutes away from Dubai International Airport.30pm • From AED 75 The Address Montgomerie Dubai +971 4 390 5600 44 The International Indian . The Sofitel pool area provides the perfect outdoor setting for Stars. Shangri-La Hotels Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach & Resorts Dubai The Address Montgomerie Dubai Traders Hotel Ideally situated for business or pleasure.30pm Easter Brunch at NINETEEN Revel in culinary decadence this Easter at The Address Montgomerie Dubai. 17th March 2012 from 6pm to 10. Suite Promotion • From AED 800 per night • This offer is available from 16 Jan 2012 through 31 Dec 2012 Enjoy the luxury of staying in a suite at special rates with added privileges. Vienna and now Dubai.30pm TANTALISING Theme Nights AT LINKS Sunday Roast Every Sunday Begin the week with Sunday Roast. This offer includes: • Accommodation in a Suite • Daily buffet breakfast at Traders Club Lounge • Complimentary Early check-in at 10am and late check-out at 3pm Weekend Package • From AED 480 per night • This offer is available from 5 Jan 2012 through 31 Mar 2012 Enjoy special rates when you stay at Traders Hotel.starsfoodart.com Further details and information available at www. Patrick’s Day Celebrate St. Food & Art Gala Event. This offer includes: • Accommodation in a Superior Room • Daily buffet breakfast • Complimentary Early check-in at 10am and late check-out at 3pm For more informations and complete terms and conditions please visit www. Patrick’s Day in Bunkers with traditional Irish dishes and drinks. as you enjoy the cosy ambience of the restaurant and lounge. Munich. Food & Art Seven international Michelin Starred & Celebrity Chefs will convene on Tuesday.shangri-la. making it an excellent value option among hotels in Dubai. Feast on traditional favourites.com and look for Special Offers. as you sit back with a pint of your favourite brew and tuck into delicious traditional roast with all the trimmings.30pm • From AED 55 Curry Night Every Monday Take your taste buds on an exotic culinary adventure.Gulf Hotel Happenings C lients to entertain? Want to make that business trip more interesting? TII keeps you up to date on what’s happening at the region’s best hotels. every Monday night at Links restaurant. Add a little spice to life with tantalising dishes that melt in your mouth. Please contact Restaurant Reservations +971 4 366 6730
[email protected]:30 PM • Seafood Nights – every Wednesday • AED 285 per person inclusive of water.Park Hyatt Dubai Jumeirah Beach Hotel Armani / Spa The Thai Kitchen . coffee and tea. 2012. grape beverages. Café Arabesque .Friday Family Lunch and Buffet Nights Discover the flavours of the Levant region – Jordan. Every Saturday. beer and wine. or Hot Pot. For reservations. • 12:30 PM .Bubbly brunch inclusive of free flowing bubbly. a dish from Chef Supattra’s home province of Esarn that is offered in addition to the à la carte menu. or • AED 320 per person including soft beverages. please call +9714 888 3888 or email info@armanihotels. soft drinks and juices Please contact Restaurant Reservations +971 4 406 8999 jbhboxoffice@jumeirah. Her journey at Armani/ SPA will begin with a fragrant rose bouquet welcoming her as she alights from the chauffeured Bentley. coffee and tea. • AED 260 per person including soft beverages. 125-minutes of personal pampering follows with a Classic Collection treatment. which begins with the thermal steam. • Price: AED 1. Sunday and Monday. grape beverages. beer and wine. enhanced by complimentary access to the landscaped pool and unique thermal area.com *Offer valid from February 1 to March 31. selected bottled lagers. before embarking on an 80-minute personalised relaxation journey featuring a Classic Collection body scrub. selected bottled lagers.com Al Muna Theme Nights On Seafood Nights enjoy a sumptuous dinner with seafood delicacies or experience oriental culinary delights on Silk Route evenings with your loved ones.Friday Brunch • 12:30pm to 4:00pm • AED 210 per person including soft beverages. Hot Pot Hot pot is a communal Asian meal where everybody cooks their own food right at the table in an aromatic broth. facial or massage combination using bespoke Armani oils. please call 04 317 2222.jumeirah. Additional terms and conditions apply. This experience culminates with a complimentary beverage in the elegant confines of the Armani/ Lounge. and sequential shower.com http://www. and standard spirits. Beachcombers Friday and Saturday Brunch Choose from a selection of International and Asian buffet with a live band playing during brunch.300 (per couple) • Time: 9am to 9pm For enquiries and reservations.Selected sparkling grape beverage. The Thai Kitchen offers Juhm Jihm. Children under 12 enjoy a 50% discount. Syria and Lebanon – with an array of authentic Arab cuisine created specially for Café Arabesque’s Friday Family Lunch (12:30pm to 4:00pm) and the “Buffet Nights” every Thursday and Friday evening from 6:00pm. • 07:00 PM .04:00 PM • Every Friday and Saturday • AED 525 . soft drinks and juices • AED 360 .every Thursday • AED 250 per person inclusive of water.com Offers the ultimate expression of love this spring Treat that special lady in your life to an unforgettable ‘Gift for Her’ experience. and is subject to availability.500 (per person) Double the delight with the ‘Couples Indulgence’ package. selected alcoholic beverages. • Price: AED 1. sauna. selected alcoholic beverages. priced at AED139 per person including a selection of juices. • AED150 per person (the minimum order is for two people). • Silk Route Nights . The International Indian 45 . To promote the summer promotions to visitors from the Middle East. For reservations or more information. Pattaya. Chalotorn Phaovibul. said: “Thailand is a yearround destination for families. Visit www. visit www. A special accommodation package is available for RO 68 per room. family entertainment. Thailand Launches “Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2012” H. dining. competitions and the most amazing bargains across retail. ConsulGeneral of Thailand to Dubai. and the Italian evening buffet. couples and groups from the Middle East. Hua Hin. inclusive of taxes and breakfast for two persons. Famed for its conference and banqueting state of the art technologies and facilities with breathtaking views from all meeting rooms as well as all the four restaurants that offer both indoor and outdoor terrace seating. This years’ ‘Amazing Thailand Grand Sale’ will provide even more attractions for residents of the Middle East and a reason to travel to Thailand at this time.TII World Traveller H eading out on a business trip or taking the family for an exotic holiday? TII brings you the best deals out there. The 2012 Grand Sale will feature Thailand’s largest collection of travel packages. Every Friday until the end of May also offers a special Mamma Mia Pizza Pasta night. use of the pools and the beach. leisure and hospitality as well as health. the hotel and resort brand is offering attractive two-night shopping packages in bustling Bangkok. Amari Watergate Bangkok package includes: • Fresh flowers and a seasonal fruit basket in room on arrival • Complimentary welcome drink • Complimentary Shopping Discount Card for use at selected Shopping Malls • THB 1. Friday Brunch & Bubbles is a major draw in the Millenium Resort Mussanah The resort has been meticulously crafted with a blend Bangkok Shopping Packages from Amari Hotels Amari. 46 The International Indian .” The “Amazing Thailand Grand Sale” 2012 will be held in Thailand’s leading tourism cities and provinces of Bangkok.com/om/ millenniumresortmussanah for more details of Arabian and Asian themes with panoramic views of the resorts private 54 berth marina off the coast of the Gulf of Oman. Amari Boulevard Bangkok Combining Travel with Retail Therapy • Complimentary Shopping • Discount Card for use at selected Shopping Malls • Complimentary OneDay Travel Pass for use on the BTS Sky-train • Complimentary unlimited in-room Broadband Internet access • 20% discount on food at the Season Thai Restaurant • Complimentary late check-out until 16:00 on day of departure • Room rates are from USD$147. beauty and medical treatments. Mydan Restaurant every Friday until the end of May.00 for a two night stay in a Superior Room including breakfast. the resort’s 234 well-appointed spacious guest rooms and 74 fully furnished luxurious spacious serviced apartments define the best in timeless elegance. A day package for a family of four is available for RO 77 including brunch. available for RO 16++ for adults and RO 8++ for children under 12. The package is available until 31st March 2012.com The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced the “Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2012” which is to be held from 15 June – 15 August 2012.000 credit on food and drink throughout the stay • Complimentary late check-out until 14:00 on day of departure • Complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi Internet access • Room rates are from USD$260. millenniumhotels. A short 45 minute drive from Muscat International Airport and Oman’s premier PGA championship golf course. a special seminar sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand was held in Dubai at the Dubai Dusit Thani Hotel on January 23rd 2012 hosted by His Excellency Mr.amari. Speaking at the event.00 for a two night stay in a Deluxe Room including breakfast.E. Chiang Mai in the north and the southern tourist destinations of Koh Samui. remineralize and protect the skin follows. Ibrahim Al Hamer. plus much. Afterward. concluding with a soothing facial massage and complimentary oxygen-intensive serum from Oxygen Pür. The body is then dry brushed to stimulate the circulatory and lymph systems followed by the application of an oxygen-intensive serum. Next the body is taken through a Thermalism series of cooling and warming while a Prana breathing sequence is performed to enhance the mind-body connection. The International Indian 47 . That night.725 per night. all wedding party guests will be invited to a welcome party in the Deep Lounge and Nightclub where they will ring in 12/12/12 New Year’s Eve style with champagne. The most extravagant of the 12 wedding packages is the “Night of Our Dreams” which has been tailored for a 12 person bridal party plus 22 guests. Elbow Beach. new you” inspired Ultimate 24 Hour Detox Spa Package at Mandarin Oriental. The lymph system is then stimulated with a cupping massage using silicon cups to drain the toxins. A full-body massage Ultimate 24 Hour Detox Spa Package using heated Himalayan salt crystals that provide a dense concentration of minerals to balance the skin’s pH. Priced from USD 14. Priced at USD 151. Available through 30 June 2012 USD 1. 2112. much more. New York Take time to rejuvenate with a “new year. Capt. Bermuda 12/12/12 will be one of the most coveted wedding dates for 2012 due to the fact that the triple digit date will not occur again for 100 years until December 12. industry personal and well wishers viewing and discussing the airlines new business/premium product and future plans in a friendly and cordial atmosphere. the guest will retreat to The Spa’s relaxing Oriental Tea Lounge to enjoy a specially prepared healthy spa bento box dinner.200. said “We are glad to participate for the second time in this event and are happy to find such popularity for our airline among the local public. He concluded “The remarkable success we all saw at the international event has proven that Bahrain Air is on track in its goal to become a favorite airline in the region”. is delighted to introduce 12 luxurious and unique wedding packages for those wanting to get married on that day. This exclusive 3-hour full-body purification treatment begins with an organic purification tea to inspire the detoxification process. each three-day package commences on 11 December 2012 and includes a special check in and reception with delicious welcome beverages and canapés.Kingdom of Bahrain Bahrain Air Concludes on a High at the Bahrain International Air Show 2012 Bahrain Air’s chalet at the Bahrain International Air Show 2012 was throbbing with activity with local and international media. the package includes a three-night stay for the Bride and Groom in the signature honeymoon cottage the “Bird of Paradise”. New York that includes accommodations. Mandarin Oriental. Elbow Beach. We have received many queries and suggestions from visitors at the show. All wedding party guests will Unique Wedding Packages for 12/12/12 come together on the beach at midnight on 12 December for champagne and 12 minutes of spectacular fireworks. Bahrain Air Managing Director. We have noted the feedback and will review how we can further enhance our product and service to further improve customer satisfaction going forward”. suppliers.000. Bermuda in association with onsite wedding planning company Weddings with Panache. chic party favours and a special countdown. was touching to say the least. slaves and spices. TII introduces the first of a three part series on Painting by: John de Silva Indians in East Africa and Zanzibar. If you go to Zanzibar. our befuddled. M Farook Elias (right) with his son Anwar (left) in Stone Town’s shopping district Photo by: Frank Raj aking friends with Indians when you travel is not easy. the legendary Indian Ocean island that is always associated with mystery and swashbuckling stories of fortunes made and lost. creed and status and we are a wary tribe of people.’ in old Stone Town – where the prices are reasonable. in Zanzibar. ‘Zanzibar Secrets. better still go do your tourist shopping at their lovely souvenir shop. look them up.Diaspora Indians In Zanzibar By: Frank Raj Typical carved Zanzibari door. Today. If you happen to be looking for something singular. Com in Bangalore. and 22 year old son Anwar. his wife Amina. who also have a 20 year old daughter Mariam doing B. who do not easily let down our guard wherever we go. caring folks like Farook Elias. For centuries Arab and Indian merchants sailed with the Monsoon winds from Oman and India to trade primarily in ivory. there is a thriving small business community of Indians. Farook Elias is also in the jewelry business and 48 The International Indian . mostly in the retail and hospitality sector. stratified society with many phony values has created mindsets based on caste. So meeting genuine. their kindness and hospitality to us on our brief holiday in the captivating Indian ocean island made our stay memorable and we will always remember them as our special far-flung friends. Zanzibari Indians in Stone Town Photo by: Frank Raj The International Indian 49 . The family had several shops and considerable property. and readily joined the Non Aligned Movement (NAM). India-Tanganyika relations were cordial. his wife Amina’s grandfather had also settled in Zanzibar. his grandfather married a girl from India. on a dhow from Porbandar when he was only 11 years old. Sir Bartle Frere who was once the Governor of Bombay and founder of the modern Indian postal service. Single individuals like him would have worked hard and lived very simply. and since Indians in Zanzibar supported local aspirations for independence from Omani rule. they were not singled out and harassed when Zanzibar merged with Tanganyika to form the republic of Tanzania. when he has made a little money. when the Congress Party was in power in New Delhi. In 1873. as did Farook. As was the custom in those days and even largely today.Diaspora there are priceless gifts available in his designer jewelry shops.] starts a shop of his own with goods advanced on credit by some large house. He made some astute observations about Indian businessmen he found on the island. and probably had people like Farook in mind. generally returns home to marry. after perhaps a brief apprenticeship in some older firms he [the Indian entrepreneur. when he noted with much admiration: “Arriving at his future scene of business with little beyond the credentials of his fellow caste men. and then comes back to Africa to repeat. was deputed by the British Foreign Office to negotiate a treaty with Zanzibar’s Sultan Barghash Bin Said for the suppression of slave traffic. including farms and houses before the revolution that ended Arab rule in Zanzibar in 1964. La Opala and Elias Jewellers for TOP: Bollywood movies are popular in Zanzibar Photo by: Frank Raj RIGHT: A view of Stone Town from the sea .” Farooq Ahmed Elias is the son of Ahmed Haji Elias from Kutch in Gujarat. Fortunately with socialist policies in common. Zanzibar had been under Omani influence from the reign of Imam Sultan bin Seif who conquered the islands from the Portuguese in 1652. Held in high esteem in India. on a large scale. His grandfather came to Zanzibar in the 1870’s. One can imagine the guts and the need that may have motivated that young lad. Zanzibar has lured Indian traders to its shores for centuries.the city is much older than it looks Photo by: Frank Raj the more discerning tourist. Nyerere 50 The International Indian . G.O. but his father married into an Indian family in Zanzibar. Farook’s father was born in Zanzibar in 1904 and he was born in 1955. and after a few years. their families would not join them for many years until they had saved up enough to support them. Tanzania’s first President Julius Kambarage Nyerere was an admirer of Jawaharlal Nehru’s vision. to make fresh business connections. to make enough money to return to India and get married. where many of the nationals speak Hindi and Gujarati.interestingly Zanzibar’s first Attorney General. and start a business. especially those with relatives in other countries. of mostly Khojas and Ismailis. The other good thing is there has been quite a bit of inter marriage and Indians have integrated much more in Zanzibar. but many emigrated when Arab ascendancy came to an end. Today there is a small business community of Indians mainly from Gujarat. the Indians of Zanzibar have mixed the most with the locals. nobody will call you a Sunni or Shia or Christian or Hindu…you are an Indian or a Zanzibarian. There were many people who left. and his mother was not educated so they did not leave the country. and if you could earn about 2030 shillings a month. maybe because it’s a small island. after our second President Ali Hassan Mwinyi. was a Goan. At one time estimates are that Zanzibar had a population of some 40.000 Indians. but that has passed. “I am happy here.” Farook was too young to leave when his father died in that turbulent period. I pray it stays that way.000 now. People who are obviously of Indian origin will tell you simply. We went through some difficulties during nationalization. “I think compared to the rest of East Africa. “I would not want to live anywhere else.” Farook points out. The good thing about Zanzibar is though Islam is the main religion. . and only those determined to see through the changes remained.The International Indian ‘‘ TOP: The fish market in Stone Town Photo by: Frank Raj was conferred the Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding for 1974.” he says. nobody will call you a Sunni or Shia or Christian or Hindu… you are an Indian or a Zanzibarian. This is not true in other places like Nairobi. ‘‘ LEFT: Prison Island cells. Rough estimates put the Indian population at about 10. in Mombasa or any other place. People are happy with that and they do not want to know your religion. we could buy and sell land. go back to the 4th century.” admits Farook. From 1985. “A lot of the Indians here actually speak Swahili at home. It is fascinating to see the impact made by Indians in a place like Zanzibar. that was enough. and the Mahatma Gandhi International Peace Prize for 1995. The good thing about Zanzibar is though Islam is the main religion.” he speculates.” Not surprising because trade ties between India and East Africa. and government policies have changed. Justice Wolfango Joseph Dourado. There are also a few Punjabis and Goans. many Indian households still bring their daughter-in-laws over from Kutch. “We had no rent to pay with nationalization. from where the slaves where dispatched to lucrative markets Photo by: Frank Raj 51 . took the first steps to reverse the socialist policies of Nyerere and relaxed import restrictions to encourage private enterprise in Zanzibar. “we are Zanzibaris. now a whole new generation has come. Indian and European towns had made an impression on him and he implemented various projects after his return. “”Most of these merchants belonged to Bopani and Bhimani communities of Kutch. The capital of Zanzibar. By the middle of the century. Over the centuries. the Zanzibar archipelago was the world’s largest producer of cloves.” reveals Shubhlakshmi Shukla. Trade brought considerable prosperity. Ivory. located on the island of Unguja. It will remind many Indians of Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi. unmistakably match those found in Gujarat’s Mandvi coast. besides the provision of piped water. it is quite obvious in the seafaring dhows still made by Indian craftsmen and the carved doors and furniture of houses in Stone Town. hospitals and large administrative buildings. Stone Town surrounded by the sea. or old cities like Ajmer in Rajasthan or Royapuram in Chennai – with one difference – Zanzabaris remarkably manage to keep their cities a lot cleaner than we do in India. with living quarters in the rear or above. He also initiated work on a long distance cable under the ocean bed from Aden to Zanzibar that was completed in 1889. and Stone Town its striking historic centre. winding lanes and mostly African people with their typical Zanzabari-Omani caps. Cloves were introduced in 1818. Characteristically the Indian house had a shop on the street front. roads. as Zanzibar became the most important entrepôt in the western Indian Ocean. According to UNESCO. modern urban development in Zanzibar probably began during the reign of Sultan Barghash (1870-88) who was exiled to India by the British in 1860. and flourished in the tropical climate and fertile soil of both Zanzibar and Pemba. is a place of old buildings. The Zanzibar chapter in the story of our scattered people is one of the most intriguing in the Indian Diaspora. is Zanzibar City.the House of Wonders built by Sultan Barghash Photo by: Frank Raj 52 The International Indian . Zanzibar’s collection of elaborately decorated houses reminiscent of the Gujarati Haveli had blended nicely into the local landscape. a police force. His most notable contributions to old-world Stone Town’s architecture are the (Bait el-Ajaib) ‘House of Wonders’. and greedy Indian merchants with their Arab counterparts actively exploited the slave trade. is a World Heritage site.Diaspora Few places in the world visually reflect Indian architectural influence so clearly. and the largest slave trading centre on the East African TOP: Indian tourists shopping in Stone Town Photo by: Frank Raj RIGHT: Beit Al Ajeeb . spices and slaves were the mainstay of trade between the port of Mandvi in Gujarat and Zanzibar. small shops. public baths. But the fact is that all the main racial groups were involved in the slave trade in some way or the other. adding wide verandahs. By the latter half of the 19th century. two storey houses combined for business and dwelling places. Unfortunately it also added an unsavory aspect to the history of Indian dispersion. as affluence resulted in bigger. a Gujarati historian. Indian traders bought and refurbished old Omani houses. and homely touches. parks. after spices like cinnamon. Today the Cathedral Church of Christ stands erected on the site. and its altar is built on the exact spot where the pitiful slaves used to be whipped. Slaves were used for the cultivation and harvesting of cloves in European plantations for very low wages. ginger. Though slaving was declared illegal on June 6. pepper and cardamom were introduced. to sign an edict which made Zanzibar’s seaborne slave trade illegal. Not all Indian traders approved of slavery.BELOW: Freddie Mercury’s restaurant on the beach. cumin.com and win exciting prizes! (For contest rules please visit www. is named after the rock star who was born in Zanzibar Photo by: Frank Raj coast. the Zanzibar archipelago soon became known as the ‘Spice Islands’. Frank Raj is TII’s founder-editor and publisher TII Amateur Photo Competition! Email ONE best photo (hi-res Jpeg file) on the theme indicated to
[email protected]. 1873. and he closed the great slave market in Mkunazini. For the rich fragrance of such cultivation.com) Next T Mot heme: Dau her & ghte r Father and son Photo by: Shweta G Father and son Photo by: Preeta Raikar Theme: Father & Son The International Indian 53 . there is a fascinating poster at the Anglican cathedral recording that an Indian trader named Jairam Senje. Sultan Barghash was forced in 1873. under the threat of a British naval bombardment. who was dedicated to ending the slave trade. slavery existed openly until Britain took over after defeating the Germans in the First World War. and both contributed financially to build the cathedral in Zanzibar. thanks to the efforts of men like David Livingstone whose house is open to visitors in Stone Town. joined hands with one Reverend Arthur West. a wish that his parents always had for him. and eventually got him elevated to his current role as the COO of NMC Trading. haunted men! Dr. Shetty for the role of Product Manager of Beiersdorf (Nivea) in 1988. Then there are those who turn one into the other! Dr. Handpicked by Dr. he rose to head NMCT’s entire trading operations. an irresistible urge to achieve something special secretly began sprouting inside him. By: A Staff Writer RIGHT: V. Thesis The United Arab Emirates (UAE) introduced National Quality Awards (NQA) based on Business Excellence models in 1989 to enhance local organizations. the distribution arm of NMC Healthcare.NMC Trading Dr. Vijayan Ramachandran Nambiar is a perfect example of an outstanding performer whose leadership talent was spotted and groomed early on. Vijayan R. Nambiar relentlessly chased his dream and was awarded the Doctorate of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix in January 2012.Nambiar with wife Meera and daughter Neha here are some people who live in a dream world … and there are some who face reality.R. not to find himself bound in the first two. After narrowly missing admission into a medical college. Nambiar: A dream come true Dr. Dreamers are. Vijayan Ramachandran Nambiar chose early in life. to be precise. R. The dream of reaching the topmost echelons of academics … a dream of continuous learning … a dream to excel to his fullest potential and give back to society … the dream of pursuing the doctoral programme. T 54 The International Indian . in fact. B. ‘‘ 55 . was a daunting challenge. Pharma and Medical Equipment segments. the more was the opportunity to learn. His wife. Nambiar made the fate of the organization his own. From the day he joined NMCT. thanks to the friendly and positive environment nurtured by Dr. based on the realization that what he knew was very little. where he was born. Project Billion is an ambitious goal conceived and initiated by Nambiar. therefore I exist” – the Swedish Novelist August Strindberg once famously said. adherence to labour laws. friendly. which needed restoration after the 1990 Gulf war. brought up and educated. His first job was with a reputed pharmaceutical company in India. Nambiar is a facilitator who challenges his team to develop and follow through on new ideas to achieve a shared vision. “I dream. Looking back. joining NMC was the best decision he made. Nambiar wishes to continue his odyssey of life weaving new dreams and helping others achieve theirs on the way … His beginnings were humble but he grew manifold and came a long way since his early days in Dubai. He fondly recalls his early days at NMC as feeling at home. Having missed admission into medical college by a narrow margin. He wishes that his recently conferred Doctorate in Business Administration.The International Indian ‘‘ Through qualitative research. He thoroughly admits that the more he grew in his career. and corporate social responsibility linked to Islamic philosophy. and adequate encouragement to experiment and learn from failures. NMCT was ideally poised for establishing itself as a major player. As the organization grew. taking it to the leading positions in FMCG. and considerate. Dr. and every day was a new learning experience. financial reporting. Professional career chart Nambiar landed in the UAE with a heart full of dreams and an infectious enthusiasm to achieve something big. Dr. would help him later on to share his collective knowledge and acumen with budding business management students and help them achieve their dreams. and make major inroads into gaining market share in the retail segment. he chose to graduate in the related field of Pharma and then went on to do his Master’s in Management Studies. He believes that he got the right platform to grow. Early days Nambiar comes from a conservative Keralite family settled in Mumbai.” The future One of Nambiar’s greatest desires is to give back to society. Nambiar’s commitment to business excellence was reflected in the organization winning awards like MRM Business Award and SKEA Appreciation Award. matter-of-fact. These four assumed norms are corporate governance. Setting up a superb team to handle NMC’s distribution network in Dubai and Northern Emirates. he was given more responsibility and authority. B R Shetty with VRN polite. Management responded by giving him charge of the whole project as the COO of the trading business in the latter half of 2007. Shetty and the senior management. Nambiar has no two thoughts about the fact that from the career perspective. Personality Down-to-earth. He convinced top management about its achievability and the need of the re-engineering process for the organization. Dr. Meera (a teacher) and daughter. NMCT has added an average of ten manufacturers every year. Neha (a Dental Medicine student) too wholeheartedly subscribe and support this idea. The UAE market was emerging out of recession in 1988 and the opportunities were many. There were ample opportunities to innovate and experiment. Nambiar identified locally relevant criteria for the EFQM award. Since 2000. “We are NOT Indians!” we curtly informed our antagonists.”. felt gloriously happy at “Returning Home”. no excuses.. beggars and bullock carts!” This Anglo-Indian fantasy. That infuriated us! Instead of shrugging off what we now know was a genuine lack of awareness on their part (and what did it matter. stoutly nurtured among us in India during the British Raj. to us in those bygone days. after India’s Independence. was not as rosy as they’d expected. our blood brothers. We expected them to cross the street and hug us. stepping ashore at Tilbury Docks or Southampton in the 1940’s and 1950’s. Far from it.” s an Anglo-Indian. Their British Raj buddies had somehow forgotten who they were! Here.Anglo-Indians We had you know! Life for many first-generation Anglo-Indian migrants to Britain in the 1940’s/50’s.and about time too! Down with ruddy India! No more filth. help you settle in. journalist and first-generation migrant RUDY OTTER recounts some of their experiences in a strange land they’d always regarded as “Home. although things didn’t seem quite so amusing at the time. our dearly beloved cousins! We are now one big happy family . But no. was an enormous difference. you may ask. grab us by the wrist and exclaim: “Look. looking back on our early days in England I have to laugh. English people committed the cardinal sin of calling us “Indians”. our very own kith and kin. now! You’re coming over to our place to meet the family! You can stay with us as long as you like! We’ll show you around.united in our very own country A By: Rudy Otter . please! We proudly regarded the white folk all around us in this strange and freezing land as our people. “We are ANGLO-Indians!” We expected them to know what. ruffle our hair. evaporated the moment we arrived in our much-vaunted Mother Country all those years ago. breathlessly adding: “Welcome home.. kiss us. How. could one “return home” to a home we had never seen before? Chup! No awkward questions. the British having occupied the subcontinent for 300 years and being directly responsible for spawning our khaki-coloured community. anyway?) we thought they were being sarcastic. We first-generation Anglo-Indian migrants. flies. the working-class people whom we lived and worked among when we got here genuinely knew nothing about India and only asked one question: “When are you going back 56 The International Indian . stepping ashore at Tilbury Docks or Southampton in the 1940s and 1950s. But most of us were not put off that easily. they chose instead to look into our dark eyes. packed up. treasured family tree reaching back to our English. The battered secondhand book gave examples of how to compose letters for various occasions such as births. My first job application in England sparked off howls of laughter from my two sisters. What’s more. “See?” we would exclaim triumphantly. we rummaged through our big tin trunks and brought out our British passports and faded photographs of our white ancestors. “English has always been our mother tongue. I am well educated. Outwardly. for which I would be immensely grateful. I turned to a page that impressed me. if you had such a great life in India. a gardener even. why did you bother to come to England?” As we lifted our jaws off the floor. you know. We had a cook.” we declared. dip-pen handwriting. I beg to apply for the position of a humble clerk in your esteemed firm. did take place in the privacy of the cramped flats we managed to rent from other AngloIndians who were fortunate enough at the time to afford to buy their own homes. We have English names. no?” Alas. we decided to sweep the English hostility under the carpet and pretend to one another how marvellous it felt to be “back home. “We are as British as you. job applications and a great deal more. including the tattered. congratulations for passing exams. I had bought an old Victorian letter-writing handbook from a bazaar shop. to look after our big bungalows with huge compounds.all the while keeping an ear open for any Anglo-Indian brave enough to voice the widespread misgivings that appalled and confused us. Shall we remove your shoes and place your feet on a foot-stool?” Their actual response made our mouths fall open. We firstgeneration AngloIndian migrants. Instead of examining the monochrome photos of our military-uniformed ancestors and a pile of sellotaped birth certificates composed in blotchy. they repeated their question: “So when are you going back?” At that point we could have given up. felt gloriously happy at “Returning Home”. and once we had vented our spleens in exasperated explanations. among our own kind” . then?” Instead of Anglo-Indian migrants getting together and discussing our weird situation. trying to make sense of our pseudo-Welsh-sounding tirades. a maid to do the housework. energetic. our earnest array of documentary evidence failed to wow them. Should you grant me the kind favour of an interview. In India. Middlesex and Croydon areas. our chests swelling with importance. we are Christians just like you. It read: “My Dear Sir. marriages and deaths. they snapped: “So why don’t you go back to your wonderful country. Irish and other European roots. Scottish. Welsh. Surely this would do the trick? “In India.” They scrutinised our brown faces.The International Indian ‘‘ to wherever you came from?” “But we are as British as you!” we cried. particularly in the London. pouting their doubts about our shrill ancestral claims. before we left. however. and returned to India . “we had servants. In my teenaged enthusiasm.” We expected them to widen their blue eyes and say: “Good heavens! You must have lived like lords and ladies out there! Welcome. Heated discussions. In our desperation to prove our white ancestry.as some disillusioned Anglo-Indians did. “Well. sir and madam! Just sit back and relax in the manner to which you were accustomed. we all wore our traditional smug smiles and waltzed our way through the many AngloIndian dances that were held in those days. I trust I shall be able to convince you of my complete suitability for the post. ‘‘ 57 . We tried another ploy. One Anglo-Indian.not a wise revelation either as Irish people. Taking the easy way out (because cooking was an alien activity for most of us). sir!” I trilled. eggs. from Bombay. stoutly nurtured among us in India during the British Raj. he said: “There is no point staying in a country when you can’t see where you’re going. bacon and sausages cooked in artery-clogging lard.. only to become the object of much smirking and giggling as he sat in a typing pool surrounded by women. possibly trying hard to imagine me as the product of a sunburnt German father and a sunburnt Irish mother who somehow encountered each other in faraway India. were disliked in England at the time.. that as an ANGLO-Indian I wore western clothes and only Indians wore “dohtees”. “Tell me. Crestfallen. ‘‘ . “I have German blood. Then there was a male cousin of mine.” Anglo-Indian meals in those days were quite monotonous.” “Yes.. Problem was he had arrived in the UK in the thick fog of those bygone days. making sure that he would be working among other male employees to avoid any more embarrassing experiences.” not realizing that English people could hardly be expected to warm to anyone proclaiming to be German when the Second World War against Germany had ended just seven years earlier. anglicizing my pronunciation to make me sound more English than Indian. Sir. “Your name. chum.” I proudly declared. he meant “dhoti”. your most humble and obedient servant. Waving England goodbye.” To my sisters’ surprise. eh?” He pursed his lips. Instead of gritting his teeth.” I said. only to emit a spicy aroma that upset our English neighbours. “It sounds a bit German. I announced with great delight that I had Irish ancestry too. we adopted a stodgy diet of beefburgers.. on my mother’s side . did you wear a dotty in India?” A dotty? Ah. The subtle point I thought I had made was completely lost on him. To make matters worse.” I signed off the carefully penned letter just as the handbook had recommended: “I beg to remain.” he remarked. Crimsoning with embarrassment. migrated to England but caught the next available ship back to India. evaporated the moment we arrived in our muchvaunted Mother Country all those years ago. a mini fortune in those days which would barely buy you a packet of peanuts now. no chance!” To my romping joy I received a letter from him informing me that I had been hired as a junior clerk at a salary of one pound and five shillings a week. “So you have come all the way from India?” “Yes sir. he left the job at the end of the first day and took a clerical post in another firm. He obviously found the task too difficult and gave up. thankful that here was someone prepared to believe I was not Indian. Occasionally we would attempt to jazz up canned meat and vegetable stews or corned beef by tossing in spoonfuls of curry powder along with garlic and onions. as respectfully as I could. hoping he wouldn’t retort: “So why don’t you go all the way back. I assured him. With visibility down to three feet. I was summoned for an interview. along with the Jews. executing a half-hearted handshake that I interpreted as “sorry. “Sir.Anglo-Indians 58 The International Indian ‘‘ hardworking and anxious to please. who chose to follow the same shorthand-and-typing profession when he came to England in the mid-1950’s. This AngloIndian fantasy. The manager gave me a funny look. a stenographer in India. he kept bumping into people. the manager smiled. and after the interview he said he would be in touch. sensitivities and chips on our shoulders the size of the Taj Mahal. who had once preyed on curry-serving Anglo-Indian families. On the work front. clerks. security guards. Walking on. England-born Indians are also taking English partners and producing beautiful children. Anglo-Indian youngsters born in England are taking English partners (with whom they share English attitudes and accents) and producing strikingly attractive children.” It is amazing to see how Anglo-Indians living in England have changed for the better over the years since we first arrived on these shores way back in the 1940’s and 1950’s. or ball curry and yellow rice. eggs.‘‘ AngloIndian meals in those days were quite monotonous. now most own their own homes. lawyers. Anglo-Indians were content to take jobs as bus conductors. What we actually meant was that we “swore” at them. boiled food being the purgatory we had to endure in our desire to be accepted as English. with our bizarre misconceptions. no? Rudy Otter is a freelance journalist based in the UK His article first appeared in “Anglos In The Wind” ‘‘ The International Indian 59 . 28.000 of them all over the country and they are very popular too especially with the English. helping to draw both communities ever closer. and so on. back in the old days. No longer do we brandish our ancestral documents and try to bulldoze English people into believing that we are as British as themselves. stuffing their faces with country captain. These days in England you will find Anglo-Indian directors. doctors. and after the usual polite two Anglo-Indian protestations. accountants. he would reluctantly succumb the third time the “Come on. Other families. The acute lack of Indian food meant that the handful of Anglo-Indians who could cook were targeted by the many who could not. One mother told a surprised Englishman that her young daughter. We also got down to doing our own housework such as vacuuming carpets. factory workers. With the help of cookery books we learned to produce an array of mouth watering Indian food. we adopted a stodgy diet of beefburgers. This ensured he would be offered a meal. he would comment that the road on the right. began to cook their own spicy fare. nowadays there are more than 8. mowing the lawn and a host of other chores in line with our British hosts. journalists. or chicken curry and rice. 12 make good food but you’ve got to visit them precisely at 12 noon. or vindaloo. liked to cook fried fish on Friday a evenings. Although many Anglo-Indians rented rooms when they first got here. laundering. scientists. Kind-leh leave a message or tray again late-arr. when telephone answering machines made their debut. but had to put up with it because this was England. only cooked Indian food on a Wednesday evening and they specialised in dosas.” His technique was to catch them in the act. the land of our dreams. Walking with him on day. thus fulfilling the deeply embedded desire of their Anglo-Indian elders. managers. culture clashes. and those old-style grub terriers. around 60 years ago. he commented: “See that road on the left? The people at No. So everything turned out for the best. He couldn’t believe it but did not know that “backward” meant “shy” in AngloIndian parlance. from Calcutta. We are now more mature and happier than we have ever been. we would apologise and revert to tasteless boiled beef and carrots. standing beside her with downcast eyes. He could have written a “Free Grub Guide for Anglo-Indians” and it would have been a bestseller at the time when Indian restaurants were scarce. Taking the easy way out (because cooking was an alien activity for most of us). university lecturers.. What’s more. Quickly some of us perfected what we regarded as a stylish accent which we thought would endear us to English people. they were horrified. one Anglo-Indian man had recorded a message that sounded like this: “Aim sorreh but there’s no one harr to take your cawl. I knew a bachelor back in those days who made an in-depth study of the most promising homes. postmen. was “backward”. No. bacon and sausages cooked in arteryclogging lard. Not wishing to confirm their deepest suspicions about our identity. increasingly these days. businessmen and women and other top professionals. Later. When we told English people in those days that we used to “abuse” our servants.. men! Tuck in!” invitation was extended. doorkeepers. Life is so very different and wonderful from what it was when we first arrived here. painting and decorating our homes. We did not think much of the stench produced by boiling cabbage (like sweat-saturated socks). Let us take these one by one. Not only that. there is at least the compensation of lots of useful material being available. but the issue of violence can be related to sex. of a sort that will “corrupt minds” and. For example: presumably. On “corrupting” our minds: it cannot be argued that our minds are uncorrupted except where we come across such material on the Internet. the government would have cited that issue in court as well? Of course. and indeed by political parties like the Congress itself. to force them to develop a mechanism to block “objectionable because they practice or tolerate tantra – which should. Opponents. hatred. Yahoo. Orissa Christians 2007 & Dec 2011. and prostitution eliminated. If so. second. And what about worship of the phallus in other Indian traditions? I’m afraid. violence does not corrupt in the same sense as sex can. the whole of the Shakta and much of the Shaivite and Shramanic branches of Indian religion should be in trouble with the law. If one is to take the government’s sort of thinking to its logical conclusion. then be forbidden. but such material is available not only on the Internet and. though there is also other and even more objectionable material available. Most of our religious gurus should be in jail. Microsoft. YouTube. temples such as Khajuraho should be closed to public access. some madrasaas of Islam. and communal violence”. so I take it that the argument is that the influence of such material is greater because of its easy availability on the Internet? There is of course some truth to this. Further. What is this “objectionable material”? Of two sorts. First. it must be sought out by someone before that person is exposed to it. of course. if it is not related to love.Guptara Garmagaram Fighting And Hate By: Prabhu Guptara The average Indian is less influenced by the Internet than by sources such as the BJP. must be related to using other human beings as objects. the Shiv Sena. whether on the Internet or elsewhere. including nuclear bombs? Otherwise. T he government has taken to court Facebook. “sexy” magazines must be banned. and poor Muslims 1975-77 Emergency. and 16 other companies. the Indian government is less concerned about the availability on the internet of information regarding the making of bombs. on the Internet. the RSS. That brings us to the second grounds on which the government has brought action against these web sites: the charge that some material on these internet sites could ‘‘ The International Indian . by the government’s measure. of a sort that seeks “to create enmity. most of Indian religious culture could be argued to be corrupt and corrupting. ‘‘ 60 Congress Party violence: Sikhs ’84. Google. material”. since sex. whether for money or by force. Why so? Because. the RSS. The evidence regarding the last-mentioned is now thoroughly documented by Meera Menon in her recently published book. Instead. Keep in mind the issue of Sharia courts in Kashmir in 2011. and none of the above should be related in any way to any of the companies or organisations with which he is now. and poor Muslims during the Emergency. has been less influenced by these sources than by sources such as the BJP. Recall the religious equivalent of ethnic cleansing against Christians that went on in Orissa in 2007 (and again to a smaller extent in December 2011). and the unconscionable and the miserable case of Kashmir Pundits. Let us recall the widespread murder of Sikhs in 1984 that was tolerated. We still have a culture that would like to keep the poor and excluded from being included in the nation and in development. political opponents. what little progress we have made is now being subjected to organized threats by reactionary forces in our country and those threats appear now to include the threat against free speech on the Internet. even now. we have still not removed the structural obstacles for discrimination which exist in our own minds.Professor Prabhu Guptara has written the above in an entirely private capacity. ‘‘ 61 . While capitalism inevitably tends towards oligopoly and a widening gap between rich and poor. Let us recall the Babri Masjidrelated riots in 1992 and the Godhra riots in 2002. from which talent and new initiatives can emerge from any group. Indeed. while having access to such material. some madrasaas and schools of Islam. which is a proxy for free speech inside the country itself. family and individual.and most of us know the truth of the situation anyway.net He blogs at: www. However. been connected. and the unconscionable and the miserable case of Kashmir Pandits. A record that needs to be strengthened. His personal website is: www. or Shiv Sena leader Bal Thackeray.guptara. and indeed by the Congress Party itself. our culture could be said to be as systematically violent as any other in history – and to be the one where the attempt to reduce internal violence is now the most contested. if not sanctioned. it requires determination on the part of political leaders to keep competition at least minimally in play and to ensure that there is a minimum level playing field in society. we have a weak record as a country. Tribal people are being hounded and discriminated against in the most deplorable ways. Let us recall the religious equivalent of ethnic cleansing.prabhu. whether presidents of political groupings such as the Janata Party led by people such as Subramaniam Swamy. by the Congress Party (though it has hid behind various legalities and formalities since then).com The International Indian ‘‘ be“instigating enmity between different groups of people”. or has in the past. 65 years after Independence. The number of incidents of violence targeting particular communities has been rising over the last few years and. UK and India) .blogspot. and some 300 years after the process started in any substantial way. the use of violence by the Congress Party against intellectuals. Google and other web sites. have never been prosecuted in our country. The real perpetrators of hate propaganda in our country whether RSS ideologues such as Keshav Baliram Hedgewar or Salafist-type Muslims. And we continue to suffer from blindness when it comes to the caste system which has condemned the majority of Indians to a subhuman existence for hundreds or thousands of years. On both fronts. as a result of our “modernity” (which is really a case of historical amnesia) we tend to forget the violence with which Buddhism was eliminated from India around the 9th century AD. What could be better calculated to turn our tribals into criminals or Maoists? So any objective observer of our country could say that we seem to be wanting to deflect attention from our own failures by pointing fingers at Facebook.prabhuguptara. Let us keep in mind the issue of Sharia courts in Kashmir in 2011. the Shiv Sena. Riots and After in Mumbai: Chronicles of Truth and Reconciliation (Sage Publications. Let us recall the Babri Masjid-related riots in 1992 and the Godhra riots in 2002. the average Indian. both a profit target is to decide the 62 The International Indian .Investment Tips On Investing In The Stock Markets By: Debajyoti Ray Chaudhuri Want To Become A MILLIONAIRE? I timing of investment. now of investing in stock The first aspect markets is to have of investing in stocks valued at Rs1400 or a loss of 88% of initial value of investment. In this way simple and effective the gyrations of the tools to make the 100 shares invested in the First Source Solutions market get evened out most out of one’s Limited (a profit making company promoted by over a period of time. long term. there are all over the newspapers and we hear of phrases also instances of investors losing wealth like ‘bull run’ and ‘bearish sentiment’. investment in the ICICI bank and others) IPO in 2007 at Rs 6400 The third aspect stock markets. While the boom in the stock markets has Generally the state of the stock markets is splashed benefited many small investors. the market when the valuations are very high. It also 100 shares invested in the Infosys IPO of 1994 at An effective way does not involve to invest in the stock commitment of large Rs 9500 has become 12800 shares at Rs 4. An gradual erosion of one’s wealth as the yield on such investor should only avoid investing when there instruments is often less than the inflation rate. An analysis of average BSE Sensex historical data over the period 1991 and 2011 shows a return of state of valuation of Here are some around 20%. One should avoid entering nvesting is about maximizing one’s wealth. became below its face value of Rs 1000 in 2009. The deciding the right time to buy a stock is not risk-averse investors may opt for safe instruments easy as one can never predict when the peaks like bank deposits. a total gain of 464422% in a steady manner online investing over a period of time make payment and irrespective of the delivery very simple. is apparent overheating and take a medium term It is generally said that investment in good view and not be too concerned over short term stocks/shares provide the best returns over the fluctuations. however in that case there is are reached or the depths are being tested. the market.15 crores (as on 31st March 2011) an annual compounded markets is to do so sums of money and growth of 59%. Even then on winding down of inflated markets. one shares: that is issue of new shares free of cost . One can form a broad Stock market investments require investment idea from comparing peer group ratios like in time and expertise in analyzing management P/E which measures the market value of a quality. basket of stocks so that adverse impact on any buy a stock when valuations are very high then one stock may be compensated by other stocks subsequent correction could see depreciation in the portfolio. This is because stock market valuations at the face value we cannot rely on dividends to are often based on sentiment. It is however difficult to make a are well managed and have good corporate judgment as to what is the fair value of a stock. To expectation that there would be appreciation balance out such variables one should have a of price. In case one is unduly leveraged. industries in different Fourthly. Stocks earn dividend Sixthly an investor should avoid excessive for the shareholders. leading to substantial losses to the investor. stock relative to its earnings or historical price An effective way to initiate one’s investment is movements like 52 week High/Low. however as dividends are leverage especially against one’s portfolio of on the face value. Similarly one should Lastly one should also have a loss target. DIFC. will have to meet margin calls from one’s bankers However. Dubai. Therefore one should depreciation in the value of stock. to invest in Exchange Traded Funds which are Fifthly one has to constantly keep track of a basket of stocks that reflects the composition developments which could have an effect on an of an Index. expansion into new While the boom in the stock markets has benefited many small investors. Stock prices • Have price targets for booking which were dependant can go up either to profits and losses on imports but was an movement of the • Keep track of developments opportunity for export broader market or due • Diversify one’s portfolio oriented units. launch of new steady return like FMCG’s. the price at which one can buy with the may be less scope for future appreciation. invested company’s stock valuation. The failure to do so could be to do distress sales of the stocks to liquidate the a missed opportunity. like S&P CNX Nifty or BSE Sensex. Some companies to be a herd mentality wherein a sudden also undertake buying back of stocks ie devaluation causes panic selling leading to further returning money to shareholders or issue bonus devaluation. Companies which products etc. financial data regarding the performance of the company. have a diversified below which one should portfolio of stocks. This could Accordingly one’s returns closely track the return be financial . launch of new products. issues like tax probes. management or business model. but there that is. Other developments which could have effect on valuation are change in Debajyoti Ray Chaudhuri is CEO SBI. over a period of time. and the views expressed in this article are his own. yields on stocks are generally realized by depositing money in the bank to meet the only when they are sold. not be reached again. If one were to enter the market that is. The recent valuations are often overheated devaluation of the rupee determined by demand/ • Be wary of stocks whose valuation is affected the profits supply and investor very high of various companies interest. and the investment is rarely stocks. as the same price may loan.for example the release of periodic of the respective index. There also tends give us a yield on investment. new operating licenses. governance command good valuation. regulatory and a loss target when one is buying a stock. ‘‘ . sell the stock which HERE’S HOW TO DO IT: would prevent us from • Invest in small amounts consistently Macro economic events often affect different sustaining further losses. etc. over the medium term. in one’s investment.The International Indian ‘‘ 63 markets. availability of He has written the above in his private capacity. there are also instances of investors loosing wealth on winding down of inflated markets. Stock • Avoid investing when markets are manner. future prospects and current valuation. If one is unable not hesitate to book one profits once the target to meet such margin calls bankers have the right price is reached. Certain to stock specific issues • Avoid excessive leverage industries are less prone like announcement of to recession and provide results. Ek Tha Tiger has considerable potential to attract more Indian tourists to Ireland. Filming kicked off here in early September and the film will ultimately be released in 24 countries worldwide. ublin is providing the backdrop for a brand new Bollywood blockbuster called Ek Tha Tiger (meaning ‘Once There Was A Tiger’) which is being shot in the city this month. The Indian film industry and vibrant city. Ireland. reaching a massive audience of over 100 million people. I want to make the actors and crew Minister for Transport. positive knockon effect on tourism from India following the shooting of Bollywood films in their regions. Khan and Katrina Kaif – has been shot to see a major Bollywood film being shot in in Ireland. Tourism Ireland is confident that it Ireland. Salman Niall Gibbons. This is the first time that a major Bollywood production – featuring two Tourism Minister Leo Varadkar with Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif. but it’s also great news from a tourism will help to significantly boost awareness of the point of view. Temple this is the first film of its type to be made in Bar and other locations around the city. rich in history and culture. Chief Executive of Tourism Ireland. is the largest in the world after Hollywood but scenes are being shot in Trinity College.Tourism Bollywood Boost for Ireland tourism Given that countries like Switzerland. and of India’s most celebrated actors. Britain and New Zealand have all reported a significant. This film will be watched by island of Ireland among India’s growing middle millions of people in India and around the classes who have the potential to come here on world. Dublin will be portrayed as a modern as a visitor destination. providing a global platform for Ireland holidays. Tourism and Sport welcome in the hope that others will follow in Leo Varadkar said: “It’s a genuine pleasure D By: Annique Labuschagne 64 The International Indian . positive knock-on effect on tourism from India following the shooting of Bollywood films in their regions. Katrina Kaif on the sets of ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ their footsteps. Tourism Ireland has been liaising closely with the Irish Film Board and Northern Ireland Screen in recent years. In general. Tourism Ireland also dovetails its marketing activity to the viewing schedule to maximise benefits for tourism to the island. while around half of our visitors from overseas say that word of mouth influenced their decision to come here. ‘‘ Katrina Kaif on location in Ireland for ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ Annique Labuschagne is an Account Manager with Gulf Reps in Dubai 65 . Ek Tha Tiger has considerable potential to attract more Indian tourists to Ireland. Niall Gibbons. promotional tie-ins with film and TV productions offer a cost-effective way to reach mass audiences. We are confident that the footage shot here will help whet appetites and create a curiosity among Indians to come and visit the places where the colourful ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ was shot. Tourism Ireland also works closely with TV and production companies to facilitate the making of films and programmes on the island of Ireland. All have aired to millions of potential visitors around the world in prime time slots and. another 20% say they were influenced by film and a further 14% by travel programmes on TV and radio (source: Visitor Attitude Survey 2010 – Fáilte Ireland). A number of programmes have been made here in recent years as well as reality TV shows.‘‘ This is the first time that a major Bollywood production – featuring two of India’s most celebrated actors.” TV and film are recognised as strong influencers on prospective visitors to Ireland. Britain and New Zealand have all reported a significant. particularly in emerging markets like India where raising awareness of the island of Ireland as a holiday destination is the first step in a longer-term campaign to attract more visitors. to attract and facilitate film-making in Ireland and to further exploit the marketing potential of TV and film productions locating here. and a number of European TV and feature films have also been shot here. We are delighted to have co-operated with the Irish Film Board in securing this important film for Ireland which was also made possible through strong support at government level. in addition to helping to secure the film or programme for the island of Ireland in the first place. said “Bollywood is deep-rooted in the psyche of most Indians and the films have a considerable influence on Indian travellers when they are deciding on their holiday destination. Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif – has been shot in Ireland.” Given that countries like Switzerland. Tourism Ireland’s Chief Executive. She was puzzled that a child would chose to read instead of watch television. Did I start reading to her while she was still in the womb? No. she was studying. Maia is a voracious reader. and wholeheartedly encouraged its growth. Lois Lowry’s novel set in Nazi Germany. and I take full credit – I was the one who planted the seed of addiction. never-ending. she meant that Maia was always reading. To W my mother-in-law. By this. She didn’t understand why Maia read all the time – even during the summer when school was out. whenever Maia had a book in her hand. I was too busy reading my own books about parenting. By: Cynthia Lim ay back when Maia was still in the early years of elementary school. I didn’t have the will to force anything on Maia. so I talked to her instead.East Meets West Parenting Getting Your Child To Love Reading I knew that it was good for children to read every day. or the trashy. I remember my mother-in-law commenting on how Maia was always studying. and there wasn’t homework. but I bought her those ubiquitous alphabet blocks. She has a love of reading that started when she was a tiny tot. Did she learn her ABC’s before kindergarten? No. Incessantly. but unlike my parents. always-the-same-plot series The Babysitter’s Club by Ann Martin. and we used 66 The International Indian . It didn’t matter if Maia was reading the award-winning Number the Stars. Did I read to her while she was a baby? No. She’s basically addicted to reading. I can’t read and cook at the same time. I decided on a strategy of “surround and conquer”. I started reading to Maia at Ms Whitelaw’s behest. on a small table by the toilet bowl. And I multi-tasked when I had playground duty. on planes and trains. I kept up with the world outside the four walls of the compound we lived in by reading The Economist and Time Magazine. but unlike my parents. after she had eaten her snack. And to ensure that our favorite hangout would be able to stay in business (back before ebooks and the Kindle). and cuddling and chatting with Mommy. I would borrow as many books as I could from several libraries. Whenever we had to spend time waiting. even in the bathroom. at the dentist’s. Instead of dictating the number of minutes she had to sit and read. I was also a voracious reader. I decided on a strategy of “surround and conquer”. Maia learned to read by choosing words from these books. and we were comfortably sitting together in the living room couch. But even before kindergarten. I read to her picture books we borrowed from the library. I always let Maia choose a book to take home. As a child. Maia learned how to read in kindergarten with Ms Whitelaw at the United Nations International School (UNIS) in New York. She was too busy brushing her teeth. by the couch. or too hot to go to the playground. After all. Unlike most parents. Books were my baby sitters when I had to take Maia with me on my daily errands to the bank or the post office. I didn’t have the will to force anything on Maia. Maia knew what reading was all about. she gave me a list of recommended picture books. when she came home from school. and a book for Maia. I knew that it was good for children to read every day. When I asked for ways to help Maia with her reading. Ms Whitelaw introduced her to the world of Billy Blue Hat and Roger Red Hat. Daddy spent a large portion of his weekends in Lagos reading a week’s worth of The Herald Tribune in English. I never failed to bring a magazine for myself. in airports.‘‘ ‘‘ Instead of dictating the number of minutes she had to sit and read. or when I had to get my hair cut. by her bed. Instead. Before the long summer vacations. copying them onto little slips of paper. softspoken Scottish woman had a way of making her suggestions seem like orders – which I knew I had to follow at all costs. This calm. I didn’t read to Maia at bedtime. them to build castles and skyscrapers. I physically surrounded Maia with books I thought she would like. I read to her at the nearby Barnes and Noble bookstore when the weather was too cold. and going to the bathroom. and sticking them in her very own Ziploc “word bag” so she could pick them out later one by one and sound them out on her own. While watching Maia and the other children play in the sandbox. and I would put the books in Maia’s room. in the living room. and the Yomiuri Shimbun in Japanese. and I shared my passion for books with Maia by The International Indian 67 . at the doctor’s. she would feel like she had too much candy. from a guide to a forthcoming trip to Disney World. Christmas and birthday presents never failed to include books. acquiring information. I would ask her to read out the ingredients. When Maia read the second Harry Potter installment in a matter of hours. and she developed the habit of sharing information with me. When we made out-of-town trips. In Ms Crane’s class.although she has never been to China. convinced that at some point. Until Maia began reading at an all-toovoracious pace – she devoured all the Harry Potter books in a day each – I read every book she read. I gave her the guidebooks. I was never one to cook with my instincts. giving her my faded paperback copy of The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery. All of Maia’s teachers encouraged her to read a different variety of books. Read more ‘East Meets West Parenting’ in The Washington Times Communities. Nancy’s adventures were a little too tame compared to the adventures of Harry Potter and his friends. She was very excited to read a book that Mommy had read when she was little. and she found where the movie was being shown and checked the time. unless you count a few stopovers in Hong Kong . I knew without a doubt that she had acquired the excellent habit of reading for pleasure. halfway through her stash. I knew without a doubt that she had acquired the excellent habit of reading for pleasure. Maia still loves reading. In hindsight. Sure enough. I was careful. to an autographed copy of A Pizza The Size Of The Sun by the children’s poet Jack Prelutsky. I suggested other titles but she had no interest. she was studying. When we wanted to watch a movie. such as “biography” and “science”. Cynthia Lim has lived. studied. When Maia joined me in the kitchen.washingtontimes. and that is what has made her into a lifelong learner. they were able to tell if they were reading a wide variety of books. had a wonderfully creative way of pushing Maia to explore beyond her favorite genre of “realistic fiction”. and settled for periodic literary summaries and reviews. Maia did not receive a real allowance until she was in middle school. and stretching the limits of her imagination.East Meets West Parenting ‘‘ With Maia spending huge chunks of her summer vacation reading. Born in the Philippines. By reading the same books. I have to say – I agree. I gave her a “book allowance” of one book a week. and by counting the number of stickers they earned in each section. We never ran out of things to talk about. With Maia spending huge chunks of her summer vacation reading. While I read every book in the Nancy Drew series twice. When she asked me for the time and channel of her favorite cartoon shows. The next step was to ensure that she also knew how to read to acquire information. and her thirdgrade teacher at the American School in Japan (ASIJ). http://communities. worked and parented in more than a dozen cities in four continents.com/ The International Indian 68 ‘‘ . and reading it again after more than two decades. and I took every opportunity to help her sharpen that skill. As long as she was reading. She went through a period of reading nothing but books from The Babysitter’s Club series. The children earned a colorful sticker for every book they read. all the students made their very own “Reading Wheel.” which was divided into sections representing the different book genres they read. I never eyeballed – I strictly followed recipes using my measuring cups and spoons at all times. Maia stopped with the first book. my mother-in-law was right – when Maia had a book in her hand. It was my way of bonding with her. In addition. Ms Crane. she is of Chinese heritage . but as soon as she could read. and tell me what to do next. I said nothing. though. and asked her to decide on a few attractions she would like to visit. not to impose my childhood favorites on her. was my thinking. she commented on how the plots never changed. I gave her the Movie Section of the newspaper. I taught her how to use the monthly TV Guide. She claimed it was boring. We once came home from a school used book sale with several bags full of Babysitter paperbacks that Maia chose. I realized I couldn’t keep up. It didn’t matter to me what Maia was reading. adding a dash of pepper and a pinch of salt here and there. I kept the communication between us flowing. The same paperbacks were donated to the next book sale. Two to three books a day during the weekends.and is now a Japanese citizen living in New York City. She was learning. gi R W H O E T . T:91 2 2 7 e+74 5 7 l 27 Bna r egl u u 2dl r oh Pa. ao oe ) e t P AE F IDEs E I 2/ scryihnoe f r E C O MN .o. aa Bna r502 eglu 605 u.IVS@` 7 S N ET 2PF 3 K SR MP N I ER A P R 0 M FO O DC RY I O T H R A F R A L. .l eo EsI uta akAr A o n rl EprZn.0 0 c srnat iW s& O I R D N I S8 0 ar t sc dn et D A e a e Su I is c 19 ot n a i e94 h d n CLTDY ALOA Bh i-l d +73169 arn L y-9390 60 a o Qt -cue -94 3 8 2 a rS br +73 8 7 a h t 1 4 Au hb-ai-91 6404 b DaiDv +7 6 018 d 5 DbiAt +7 0 42 3 ua-n 91 385 o 5 4 Rslhia -n -91 3 60 aAKa h Ai +7 52 61 m l 5 0 O a . 0 c s rnat |5 Canlates1 Ofe . t l l .ptr po e -o c 1 5 0 Rl i si |. .lrnatn b ceu ol O PEE R N P R N YA t scos y hqe n la i y S L C E E T L. l 1 Cm irtod o ms i Ra. f e o u t G O T P TN ILC s tSZ. O i 87 88 ea Dbi A f e0 & 0 Di -uaUE f c r .a i-98 3 5 5 m n M rn +6 95 1 t 76 Dbi ua PBx8 8 DbiA Oo1 61 uaUE 1 . ds i Pr. od hr A pr ( e tnli e c xotoe Pni er i oto r i as c Ot c y r . A G c ne ak& l m r 01 M R Si c Pr. 0 e t nh s8 0 Ar Tasc d 20 hnePr r| fcs 20 ao p 0 e e n 4 i . p ao n 21. T: 9 044 7 7 e( 1 )44 7 l+ 8 7 w w xag u.ay Ms 47 eui t advro . o.m w . h o. Nw et yi T e 8 F o e Cn rCyo r t l r u t w .u cres n dm r tn onr oe e ac i t ao C M LT T A SA E C. n F o Sba erN.a arN p taj t 2 prqf FO D BEH l c A ls t s` 7 es. all I can say is. yena da” (loosest translation: ‘Oh Brother!’). “Aiyo. By: Ranjani Iyer Mohanty f you still haven’t heard of the song Why this kolaveri di?. the song has a broad relevancy that can apply to any of us who have been confused in love and wondering what the hell we did to piss off the other person so much. so the name of the song figuratively translates into something like ‘Why are you so damn angry with me. Since its release on November 16. meaning all the guys out there undergoing heartache. and the sorry side of love in general.India Journal India’s Mantra Since its release on November 16. Why is this song so immensely popular? There are several reasons that all contribute to the phenomenon. a song about love gone wrong. and calling it a soup song gives it a dash of quirkiness and 70 The International Indian . It’s supposed to be a sad love song. Kolaveri means killing rage. breakup. One can only guess that it may be because of the guy’s alcoholic tendencies (guessing from his slurred voice) or the girl has I serious anger management issues. Why is this song so immensely popular? There are several reasons that all contribute to the phenomenon. a ‘soup’ song. And you’ll be happy to learn that it’s appropriately dedicated to ‘soup boys’. the song ‘Kolaveri Di. or as the singer refers to it. But until then. girl?’ And that remains a mystery throughout the song. this song has gone viral on the Internet and been reported in all the Indian newspapers. The song is part of a movie called 3 so all may be revealed when the movie is released in January.’ has gone viral on the Internet and been reported in all the Indian newspapers. There’s instant and universal empathy with a love song. Not only is the meaning simple. and striving to get into Microsoft and Google. It shows a recording session in a studio with a group of 20-somethings. the tune is easily hummable. These are youth who for years have been told “Always listen to your parents and teachers”. Since the key players on this song are all South Indians. And because the song is in very simple English. It’s not simple in the way of the Police song De-Do-Do-Do DeDa-Da-Da which projects a veneer of simplicity but is quite profound underneath. it’s the video too. Dhanush himself admits that the words are largely nonsense. They are tired of being so good. but they are also simple and memorable. in their own way. There is a very relaxed casual atmosphere. The tune was composed by Anirudh Ravichander (21) and lyrics were written by Dhanush (28). What a release! What’s not to like? This song is their soft rebellion. Some say the song is in Tanglish – a combination of Tamil and English – but you could also call it Engmil. and cosmopolitan. I could do that”. practicality. The beat is catchy. such that even those not fluent in English can understand it. father would disapprove and mother would be most disappointed. rules. Because the song is essentially in English. Lyrics such as “Moon-u color-u white-u” and “Night-u color-u black-u” are cute but it also shows something else. it cuts across state borders and has national appeal. There is a what-yousee-is-what-you-get transparency. but “Hey. just the last sound of each word is extended to simulate an exaggerated Tamil accent. and “Stay away from all vices”. people think not only. artistic. making it distinctive. The song is not being lip-synced by a slick and buff movie star. and calling it a soup song gives it a dash of quirkiness and humour.The International Indian ‘‘ 71 humour. This song is the opposite of everything There’s instant and universal empathy with a love song. so are the tune and the words. Actually though. so clean. funny. looking urban. it shows an ability to laugh at themselves – something rare in Indian songs. it’s a soft protest song for today’s Indian youth – protesting against the establishment. sung by a guy who looks like a college buddy who doesn’t study too hard and sounds like he’s had one too many himself. As Sting said. not much of the song is in Tamil. with no sense of hierarchy or rules. they’re not the kind to rampage in the streets. Everyone is doing their own thing. It’s simple in the way of Cindy Lauper’s Girls Just Wanna Have Fun and even closer to Bobby McFerrin’s Don’t Worry. making it distinctive. Be Happy. “Hey. ‘‘ . However. Watching him. love. hierarchy. striving to get into IITs and IIMs. And their enthusiasm for this song is their reaction against normal Indian life which is highly and largely regulated by the values and likes of elders. “Keep your nose to the grindstone”. Another allure of this song is its simplicity and therefore its appeal to the common person. so responsible. Everyone is striving to be class-topper and exam-topper. People are having fun but they’re also focused on the task at hand. it cuts across language barriers too. Then along comes this simple. but half sung and half spoken by a guy who looks like the boy next door or your college classmate. and studying so hard. I want to be part of that”. Most importantly though. But it’s not just the audio impact of the song. and idol of intellectualism. and instrumentation is reminiscent of rustic street musicians. and easy-tounderstand song about girls. and alcohol. “…the simple can be so powerful. sometimes they succeed. and the Atlantic. Some are calling the song the Indian’s youth’s new anthem. respectfully nurtured. On a major note. “Yen indha kolaveri da?” (loosest translation: ‘Why are you so damn angry with me dude?’) “Ranjani Iyer Mohanty is a writer and business/academic editor. all I have to say is. 1923 TII’s Hall of Fame features India’s elderly. He was running a small shop in Hooghly. I don’t have any problem at all except I need a pair of spectacles. the phrase “Why this kolaveri di?” could become its new mantra. born Hooghly. Ramayana. the WSJ. If my relative come here. This song has not been carefully composed. which is “Study hard for 16+ years and you will succeed”. and therefore for themselves. and represents them: a song by youth. based in Delhi.com/in ranjaniiyermohanty” TII Hall Of Fame They search for me for darshan. It’s here and now. by going against society’s standards and choosing their own. I’m a sad old woman and I apologize if you wanted to hear something else. in liking this song. Sister Nivedita. interesting and unusual men and women. hierarchical entertainment machinery. My relatives are still there but I don’t think of them anymore. that occupies my mind. and by stepping out of the frenzied rat race … even if just for four minutes to listen to this song on YouTube. and long practiced.India Journal they’ve been told. and sometimes they don’t lost my husband when I was 15. They want something that’s simple. the joy of being in Vrindavan. in liking this song the young are in essence saying they don’t always want a fully orchestrated. Bhagvad Gita. they are asserting their independence by disagreeing with their elders. including the IHT/NYT. the prayers and the devotional songs. Swami Paramhamsa… I’m sorry. West Bengal. great. they search for me for darshan I (visitation). clamouring how wrong I am in my analysis. Now to those of you just itching to send in angry comments vehemently disagreeing with this article. It’s impromptu and off the cuff. I like reading old books – Mahabharata. I didn’t have any children and continued to live there for 46 years until I decided to come here. On a minor note. sometimes they succeed and sometimes they don’t. abandoned widow. for youth. The tune and the lyrics were all done in under thirty minutes. http://in.com 72 The International Indian . they are voting for the regular guy. informal. In liking this song. and demanding how on earth could I not think this is the best song ever …. Excerpted from the book ‘Ageless Mind and Spirit’ by Samar and Vijay Jodha www. And it works. Her articles have been published in several newspapers and magazines.linkedin.agelessmindandspirit. carefully choreographed product that comes out of a complex. If so. Maya Mukherjee. m we a gop o x c A ei s pr etf i m ni: a m n an t A t s cg e O Ec om n u do s|l N a ef ai r f e A r c e rt l aa m n wtbln s pr et i aoi | t s h c e Cvr Cra i | r a oe d aPrn C W s e kg a h Fci |pr etor a s al Aa m nCu yr | iy t t t d OeA piet | m e t e pn m hha r e pr u t eT ar Cn oeSimnPo|o ot ldwm i ol rl g N e l k Sa d asPwra u | hr W l|oeBc p CT Sr i n |usRo s CV uv l c Ge om | el e a t AM Ce i. 0 e t nh s8 0 Ar Tasc d 20 hnePr r| fcs 20 ao p 0 e e n 4 i . . F o Ofe8 7& 8 8 l r fc 0 o. N w .m d e -o c DBI UA P .n te ec. Tl 91 2277 e +7 4 527 : BN AU U E G LR 2d l r oh Pal n F o Sba er o.D cie P ps dvom nc i s n ilm r r o de l et mn o sa : o e ep o go CLTDY ALOA Bh iarn a L y-9390 60 l d +73169 o Qt ar a S ue -94 3 84 c br +731 72 h t 8 Au hbb Dai Dv -91 6404 ai +7 6 018 d 5 Dbi uaAt-91 3853 n +7 0 424 o 5 Rslhia aAKa h m Ai +7 5260 n -91 3 61 l 5 0 O amn M rn +6 955 5 a i-98 3 1 t 76 E a: mi l wso t e eptr po i mr @ xag u. . Cm i ai R a. pt ru.hms S e r t tu m k Poio |n aom r r snAd l o vi t e 1 5 0 Rl i si |. o 86 1 e O CnuyC yTw r 8h etr i o e t t . 0 c s rnat |5 Canlates1 Ofe . pra e T .o ms r t od 1 s a Bna r -6 0 5 egl u 50 2. Bx 118. u Tl+10 4 4 77 e ( 8 ) 4 4 77 :9 Paeqi . N . i 0 D i .ua U E e a D bi A .u tad h e li qoi t prd' in ut n ugae vg e yu fmlsesn agl e ora i ek iBna r y o / H aa mn vroi yuon ra o s 3 t s l n ve r 2 BK pr etoeok gorw pi tf et vi eetf m ebr i o wr-a l l i o sp d ls u Aa bnfsr mm e h ta olcsc b pr n ege wt orovn n n i m s i h ee d Aatetdsnd i yucnei cimn 8 mni e g r d tehn oris l ts n v e e fy 7 aeiebi poi do nacyulete e eec x rn pi e w . r . o . Logically. The global Sikh migration started initially with these men being recruited in the armies of various countries – the valour of this martial race being recognised as early as during the Indian (Sepoy) Mutiny of 1857. results in a range of narrative styles. As a comparative study. Transcription of interviews where he retains the original wording of each immigrant.Diaspora Sikhs in Latin America By: Amita Sarwal his book is obviously a labour of love by Swarn Singh Kahlon who spent almost two years in travelling and researching the migration of the Sikh diaspora in Latin American countries. Central America. This is helpful information. Kahlon includes The global Sikh migration started initially with Sikh men being recruited in the armies of various countries – the valour of their martial race being recognised as early as during the Indian (Sepoy) Mutiny of 1857. he briefly includes facts and figures about Indian migrants from across the country and where they went to. Travel nuggets come in as his personal experiences. Subsequently 74 The International Indian . even in Latin American countries the Sikh community can proudly boast of professionals and entrepreneurs – as well as someone like Chief Justice George Singh (1998) in Belize. T excerpts from his travel diary which puts a time and place and identifies the people he met. Today. These are perhaps the farthest Sikh settlements from their original home in Punjab. What makes the 360+ page book highly readable is the author’s direct simple style. As is an obvious precedent. The translation of the Guru Granth Sahib into Spanish has in a way helped keep it alive with the younger generation. Carmen had not seen an Indian for nearly 60 years since the death of her father Muncha Singh in 1943 – till she met the author! received from various people. This perhaps has made assimilation into the local environment easier. While in Panama the author spotted Sikhs in a mural depicting those involved tlements in the construction of the Panama Canal. Carmen (left) and Leandra Singh (right) from Cordoba in Argentina (photo in Carlos Plaz). but speak neither English nor Punjabi. In Mexico. Brazil he encountered ‘‘ 75 .” thest In Mexico too there were more encounters Sikh setwith Sikh converts. Leander and Maria.com) with interests similar the Sikh to mine helped with more contacts. Perhaps due to logistics. Kahlon acknowledges all the help he Author Swarn Singh Kahlon (2nd from right) seen with the mother-son duo. An diaspora Argentinean scholar Dr. “I was lucky to meet in Chandigarh an exchange student from Argentina. attracted the largest number of immigrants because of its prosperity in the early 20th century. Her niece Gabriela is seen 2nd from left. construction workers.The International Indian ‘‘ they went as farm labour. Esther. It has also helped retain a sense of cohesiveness and communal ties in a strange land. Interestingly. The majority of the 2nd and 3rd generation Singhs are fluent in Spanish. Satinder Pal Singh working perhaps with Shell Oil and in Belize. working at the farTutt Farm introduced me to several people. then moved into transport services and further into owning stores. as compared to its neighbouring countries. here too Gurdwaras have sprung up in towns and cities where a sizable Sikh population settled. with these temples becoming the contact and networking point for the community and new settlers. Lia helped me set up my in Latin travel itinerary and even offered her apartment American for my stay in Buenos Aires. Carmen and Leandra Singh from Cordoba. She provided useful search of information which is incorporated in the book. Carmen had not seen an Indian for nearly 60 years since the death of her father Muncha Singh in 1943 – till she met the author! There is an interview with Subagh Kaur Khalsa. whom I share a surname) in Sao Paulo helped me locate a 3rd generation Sikh immigrant in studies Brazil. Argentina. rious people. The lady also teaches yoga. the Sikh diaspora in these countries rarely married Sikh women from India. the Government of the Khalistan Government in Exile! Anecdotes pepper the text such as a meal with a family where the parents were eating dal and roti while the teenage son enjoyed beef steak! In Sao Paulo. sikhglobalvillage. Sabbi. a convert to Sikhism who runs the Gurdwara in Brazil but her regret is that there aren’t too many followers of the faith in that country. from their An eye-opener in Ecuador was the discovery original of the erstwhile Khalistan Embassy which home in opened there in 1985 and issued passports of Punjab. Almost unbelievably so. the migraA young friend of mine from London. Kahlon in many cases has unwittingly provided the impetus to the younger generation of immigrants wanting to meet more of their kind and learn about their parents and grandparents roots and country of origin. even in Latin American countries the Sikh community can proudly boast of professionals and entrepreneurs – as well as someone like Chief Justice George Singh (1998) in Belize. Today. I requested her to visit the Sikh community in Salta on return to Argentina The reas my advance party. minimarts or supermarts. Another interesting revelation is the Singh Family Burial Tombs as cremation for the dead was not permitted in these countries earlier but is now allowed. Carmen. Mit Kahlon (with countries. Arvinder tion of Singh Garcha (met through my website www. Subsequent generations have taken on local first names while retaining the Singh surname – Dante. Central America. as South America is one of the furthest continents from their homes in Punjab. Almost unbelievably so. This alone is a feather in his cap! One such family is the mother-son duo. So the travel had to be anchored with a purpose. Kahlon did his homework on the home front too. They were in some ways heroes for me. I had to do something different and original. Their love and affection was very heart warming. like many other communities. Chandigarh www. ‘‘ . Donned in her white regalia including turban with a ‘khanda’ emblem on swarnsk@gmail. I was looking for a challenge – here it was. I wondered what motivated them to move to strange locales especially with turbans which made them stand out as strangers. On these trips I often met Sikh migrants. I wondered what motivated them to move to strange locales especially with turbans which made them stand out as strangers. owned by Satwant Singh Sandhu family TII: What inspired you to research and write about the Sikh Diaspora? Before the 20th century ended. salutes the brave first generation immigrants who faced the hardships of reaching and settling in far flung unfamiliar territory. New Delhi A Sikh Global Village Initiative. Students from SaIT Kahlon. I had moved to Chandigarh (Punjab) after about four decades of living in Kolkata and Mumbai. They were in some ways heroes for me.sikhglobalvillage. I just jumped in. President of India’s. As I was wearing a turban. in an area where there are no other Sikhs. Sikhs.com TII interviewed the author who admits what was finally most rewarding about his book was when someone met him and remarked. I decided to prove these claims. I had to know more about them. A hobby-interest started developing and in early 2000 I ventured on a round-the-world trip to meet scholars and people researching Sikh immigrants. The downside was that hardly any information was available. a country farthest away from Punjab and in the wrong (upside down) hemisphere. 2012 Manohar Publishers & Distributors. A treasure trove of information for anyone interested in the Sikh community – or for that matter the pattern of migration of one of the most respected communities in India. claim they are present everywhere. we did not interact much but their ‘images’ lingered in my mind. Both my wife Livleen and I are avid global travellers – I am presently on my 23rd passport – and soon it was becoming a bit of ‘I have seen it before’. USA and UK. Sikhs in Latin America Travels among the Sikh Diaspora © Swarn Singh Kahlon. It was easy to cover Sikh immigrants in Canada.” 76 The International Indian ‘‘ A home retail shop in Santa Cruz in Bolivia. I decided to start with Argentina. “We now have two cultures – South American and Sikh/Punjabi and we feel richer now. To further substantiate and verify his research. So like an adventurous Sikh. with this book. Some encounters stand out: Satguru Singh with his ‘patka’-wearing sons.Diaspora Mit Mohan Singh Kahlon who just happened to share the same surname – and has since become a friend.com sgv2011@gmail. unlike many of the second or third generation Sikh immigrants. visit to Argentina and some mention of Sikhs in Mexico. and prior to that in USA and Bihar. I had read about Giani Zail Singh. He visited villages in Punjab to find out about those who left home and went overseas. Their children and grandchildren continue to proudly carry their race and religion further in a foreign land which is now their home. The entry of Sham Kaur in my hotel in La Paz. Working with the British multinational ICI meant frequent overseas travel. it was very exciting for them to meet me. several hundred miles from Mexico City.com Why Latin American countries first? In line with the spirit of some migrants – “The Farther the Better”. TII: Tell us about some memorable meetings. Most of the immigrants married locally which combined with the absence of Gurdwaras in earlier days meant the second and third generation are Singhs but they cannot relate to being Sikhs. Others are in the book. I found younger Sikh women wearing salwar kameez on Graduation Day. The comparatively fewer immigrants who married Sikh women from Punjab have retained the Punjabi ethos and customs more strongly. were a nightmare. Embassies. I captioned her interview ‘An Angel Walks In’. Bridegroom sans Bride . Irritated by their questioning on the purpose of my visit.a supermarket in Rosario. in Argentina which is owned by Tara and Jiwa Singh families British Library in London unearthed much needed information on Sikh migration to Brazil. the process of assimilation is very pronounced.” a content Kahlon concludes as he prepares for his next two books. you are crazy! Who goes to Copacabana Beach with his wife?” Visa promptly issued! Persistence. That got me the visa. or take their families to connect with families there. Gurdwaras. Amita Sarwal is a freelance writer based in Singapore ‘‘ Dashmeshpita Norte Supermercados . Or the Brazil Embassy’s query about why I was travelling alone. I had perforce to say: “To spend money”. I hope I have achieved the main point of this book – to highlight that Sikh migration to Latin America was almost as old as that of Sikh migration to North America. TII: Face any challenges? Challenges included getting tourist visas (no embassy believed I was going to those countries just for sightseeing) and making air bookings (travel agents are not familiar with that part of the world. A wedding photo termed ‘Bridegroom sans Bride’ is very telling where the turbaned Sikh bridegroom is in the Gurdwara without his Argentinian bride. The marriage ceremony was held at the church followed by a reception (langar) at the Gurdwara. probably more as a fashion statement. as was travelling alone into unfamiliar territory. Then I was told that even prostitutes had been detained and searched! Not a very complimentary comparison! My lack of knowledge of Spanish and Portuguese was a negative. “To sum up. At times I The International Indian 77 . There was literally and practically no other ‘‘ Embassies. My luggage was thoroughly searched because of the NAM Meeting which our President was attending. Most immigrants did not/could not visit their hometowns in Punjab. and the Custom Department’s unwelcome reception upon landing in Cuba. which look so frivolous or even funny in retrospect. my conviction and logic paid dividends in Cuba and Ecuador. The Bride did not pay obeisance at the Gurdwara but joined in the festivities preceded by the church wedding which both bridegroom and bride participated in way for their survival. Logistics. both of Latin American countries in India and the Indian Embassies in Latin American countries were either unhelpful or evasive at best. My response: “Man. Exceptions have been mentioned in the book. are also exposing the younger generation to Sikh and Punjabi culture. while the almost aborted the trip. Is the older generation still in a time warp? The countries where Sikh immigrants are present in small numbers and especially in countries which are far away from Punjab. both of Latin American countries in India and the Indian Embassies in Latin American countries were either unhelpful or evasive at best.at the Rosario Gurdwara in Argentina.the forehead. besides religion. people refuse gifts which are unasked for…. In essence. We also looked for creative children and women who have extraordinary imagination. While taking leave. The International Indian . patented and then the information is sent out to others who can make use of the same. I am quite sure even he could not have dreamt that it would turn so big! Honey Bee Network is a network of volunteers engaged in the development of a sustainable knowledge eco-system.Environment The Honeybee Network Padmashri Prof. we could give the rest to others. The movement has snowballed into 75 countries with China taking the lead. the Bio-diversity competition Hindi version of the Honey Bee newsletter to each one of them.As we walked along. is brought out of its home environment. In lay terms it means that indigenous knowledge which is used by an individual or groups to save labour and add to the efficiency of their work and output. Anil Gupta from IIM Ahmedabad writes about his 27th “Shodh Yatra” which he had undertaken just a few weeks ago “….” By: Shyamola Khanna A 78 nil Gupta is the mastermind who started Honeybee Network in 1989. if a farmer in Punjab has benefited by preserving his seeds in a certain manner. especially in the rural areas. we met a group of labourers who asked us about the purpose of the Shodh Yatra. We explained that we look for innovators and traditional knowledge holders and honour them at their doorstep. Such are the sanskars of frugality. we gave a copy of Soojhbhooj. They returned all the copies except one saying that they would share one copy. surely a farmer in Andhra can try out the same and help protect his seeds from rot. Not often. Tl 91 2277 e +7 4 527 : BN AU U E G LR 2d l r oh Pal n F o Sba er o.u o e r 0q 4s k q : ee hu 7 5iwy lgHbA eu sc tn h ni g a nw d H m oe ye p la i hK na o. Bx 118. Cm i ai R a.o ms r t od 1 s a Bna r -6 0 5 egl u 50 2.S F . 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SRISTI was set-up to help in the documentation of innovations and traditional knowledge practices discovered by the Honey Bee Network. multiplying and disseminating rural knowledge and traditional wisdom after validating and protecting the ownership rights of that knowledge. With a group of volunteers he walks for miles together into the remote parts of the country and connects with people who have minimal contact with the world as we know it—they have no internet. In several villages.Foundations (NIF) in the year 2000. After five years of the formation of this network. “We met a 99 year old motadada (Gujarat for an elder) who had deep knowledge of climate change. THE SHODH YATRA Twice a year. happy to share their indigenous knowledge when the good professor asks them. From his words one can understand how one man’s passion can have such a snowball effect . a shodh yatra (journey of exploration) is undertaken in remote regions in the hope of discovering hidden creative genius in the people. The above extract is from Prof Gupta’s latest newsletter on the recent shodh yatra. the very basic telephone connectivity. They go out into the villages. Any rewards and benefits go back to the owners. older varieties of rice and the uncultivated vegetables. the number of volunteers has grown to nearly a hundred with ages ranging from 16 to 80. earn their trust and then once they have managed to convince them that their intentions are genuine. Both Honeybee and SRISTI are initiatives of Dr Gupta and they work in tandem. We shared an insight we learnt in Kutchch Shodh Yatra when a TOP: Centurians BELOW RIGHT: Tuladevi_ honoured ‘‘ 80 He walks for miles together into the remote parts of the country and connects with people who have minimal contact with the world “Honeybee works as a catalyst. the knowledge about plants which could help in controlling pests was not completely lost. The core principles of the National Innovation Foundation come from the Honey Bee Network and SRISTI. while farmers had taken to chemical pesticides. SRISTI (Society for Research and Initiatives for Sustainable Technologies and Institutions) steps in.” says Brigadier (retd) P Ganesham who heads Honeybee Andhra Pradesh (AP) Honeybee is a virtual organization of volunteers with no registration. talk to the locals. a registered national body which monitors innovations across the country. even if the practice was. No money exchanges hands and anyone can be a volunteer. From these two smaller organizations came the National Innovations ‘‘ The International Indian . His approach was quite different in many respects from the modern orthopedic. New Delhi on November 18. dimly lit environment to prevent shock [c] the squatting position should be preferred for delivery instead of lying position.” He talks about Tula Devi in Hazam village who is “a midwife who was extremely angry over the practices of modern gynaecologists for child delivery. May be Indian practitioners will pay attention when it comes as a western advice!” THE RECOGNITION As a result of persistent tracking. Such a simple summary depicts the wisdom. which many communities still have. These two unique concepts have been patented and their the logic of these practices. The NIF chose the ‘ Lakshmi Asu Machine’ for its annual Award for Grassroots Unaided Technological Innovations and Outstanding Traditional Knowledge. TOP: Inspecting crops. a local Telegu channel has a program called ‘Innovators’ and Mallesham’s machine was featured on it. She made three forceful points which have already triggered a discussion in the medical fraternity: [a] the umbilical cord should be cut after around ten minutes when it stops pulsating. Some of the western scholars have already accepted and unique labor saving devices like the “jyothi chulha” and the “asu machine”. When he spoke at the gathering. has documented more than The International Indian ‘‘ 81 owners recognized and felicitated. Honeybee AP has been able to bring out many interesting HONEYBEE NATIONWIDE Over the last twenty years Gupta’s Honey Bee Network. President Pratibha Patil held a special forum to facilitate the Grassroots Innovators and Mallesham Chintakindi the young school dropout who made the ‘ Lakshmi asu machine’ (named after his mother) which is a labor saving device for weavers--.was given his due recognition. Brig P Ganesham of Honeybee AP is on Gupta’s right LEFT: The village women and children listening to Dr Gupta Tula Devi is a midwife extremely angry over the practices of modern gynaecologists ‘‘ . 2009. TV9. Forbes magazine picked it up and recognized Mallesham Chintakindi as one of the “Seven most powerful entrepreneurs in India” President Pratibha Devisingh Patil felicitated him at the Fifth National Award Function of National Innovations Foundation (NIF). for the last two years. in abundance. [b] the child should be delivered in dark.farmer had summed up our concern by saying.’ He talks about Dinanath Koeri “an extraordinary herbal bonesetter whose reputation in joining fractures was much respected in the region. She claimed that low eyesight of many children and fearful nature could be because of neglect of time tested practices. “what you are saying is that all those plants which are not eaten by cattle because of toxicity are potential source of pesticide”. In fact. many people were seen wiping their eyes. I set up Honeybee Network AP and started in earnest. India 82 The International Indian . financial and marketing services so that a viable economic model can be worked out of the rural innovation. It was quite an amazing collection and with some vetting and validation. anilg@iimahd. he is a soil specialist. He will work things out on the basis of this knowledge. The Honeybee newsletter is published in almost all the recognized Indian languages and is sent out to the various state level volunteers so that the word spreads. When I asked the girls at a rural college to give me all that they could gather on health care from their grandparents. Although protecting intellectual property rights still remains difficult.org www.” (An excerpt from Harmony Celebrate Age. Honeybee seeks this knowledge so that it can be disseminated to other rural societies.” says Gupta. we documented it all! I have seen and known the arrogance educated people have against the illiterate and humble farmer. A rude dismissal of the elderly was a dismissal of all their experience and cumulative wisdom of so many years. the answers come from nature itself. He uses local resources in the best possible way. “all technologies we licensed out have gone to small entrepreneurs. I had been curious as to why that was the case? Were there no intelligent or thinking people in the backwoods of AP? Or was it there was no one to go in there and find out? So within six months of my retirement. I got an amazing response. 29 technologies have been licensed since GIAN was launched “Incidentally.000 ideas. I spoke to the old and the young and discovered many innovations which have made people sit up and take notice.in Prof Anil Gupta can be contacted at
[email protected]. When I spoke to the kids. I have heard in rapt attention. To him and others of his ilk. I walked for miles in the villages on roads which were sometimes there and sometimes not.ernet. In lay terms it means to make money out of it so that the innovator can get some money for his idea.get3000asumachines.nifindia. a farmer telling me that he asks the plant what is wrong with it if it is not growing or is not bearing fruit. I asked them to treat their grandparents with a lot more reverence than they were doing.org www. not one single large corporation has put in a request for a technology” LEFT: Mallesham’s mother with the original asu machine THE PROFILE OF A HONEYBEE VOLUNTEER Brigadier (Retd) P Ganesham “After retirement when I came back to Hyderabad.Environment 1. I got nearly 300 hand written papers with all kinds of health care tips and ideas which they had got from the elders.in Read more at : www. He is a weatherman. The most recent addition to the offspring of Honeybee Network is the Grassroots Innovations Augmentation Network (GIAN) which links entrepreneurs to the formal systems of technical.com. he is a manager of water resources and he knows all that he needs to know about animal husbandry.00. and other elders of the village. weather conditions and traditional upbringing. We forget that he has eons of traditional knowledge behind him which given his milieu. I was all set to carry forward the theme of Honeybee Network because there were innovations coming in from different states but nothing from AP. It has also had the onerous task of preparing an immense database of all the traditional knowledge and grass roots innovations identified so far. Right from how they treated skin lesions to pain in the ears or knees to stomach ailments of all kinds.techpedia. innovations and traditional knowledge practices. June 2011) Read more about it at www.in Shyamola Khanna is a freelance writer based in Hyderabad. will support him and provide help when he needs it. Within 30 days. GIAN has offices in almost all the remotest areas of India in all directions. e e ad o. k f m I xadd o a s 8 m r I n o M Clg oee l CLTDY ALOA Bh i-l d +73169 arn L y-9390 60 a o Qt -cue -94 3 8 2 a rS br +73 8 7 a h t 1 4 Au hb-ai-91 6404 b DaiDv +7 6 018 d 5 DbiAt-91 3853 ua-n +7 0 42 o 5 4 Rslhia -n -91 3 60 aAKa h Ai +7 52 61 m l 5 0 O a . egl un l r oh er o . 0 c s rnat |5 Canlates1 Ofe .e +7 4 527 0 D i .e ( 10 4 4 77 6 0 5Tl+ 8 ) 4 4 77 :9 w w xag u.m w . 1 s a u 50 2.s so i r t Q at ar N dm r t p t i l ur r c A e ac e l s n . o. s pf 8 4 qe ` Ceu l es lhl A da Te e ry o Ne AdTe e r h Sc i Yu ed n h Rt n ut us Yu atut0 i F mTcy io o W n J 2 Mn r rhA pr . Cm i ai R a. .. Bx 86 1N w etr C y o e 8h l r fc 8 7 O t . e Cnuy i Tw r t F o Ofe 0 & . c m trb ras2/ scry ooal od.ptr po e -o c 1 5 0 Rl i si |. . o 118. o ms r t od Bna r o.ua U ETl 91 2277 r . i 8 8 e a D bi A . : BN AU U E G LR 2dF o SbaPalN .a i-98 3 5 5 m n M rn +6 95 1 t 76 DBI UA P . m r 5 o H 1 hh s e g c n epne t 4 l e. 0 e t nh s8 0 Ar Tasc d 20 hnePr r| fcs 20 ao p 0 e e n 4 i .47 eui e t Lct isrtapei e oee oe oa dn ueo prc tClg Zn e a l Cnei t s l et l s ovn n i t l n p n e n am a 2 k f m N 20 w i i bi . jeera & small onions. jeera 2 tsp. Stir fry for a minute & serve hot. small onions & green chillies. raw banana) ¼ kg. salt (as required). jeera. Heat oil in a kadhai. yam. Drain and keep aside. while the Syrian Christians and the Moplahs (Muslims) follow a non vegetarian diet.. green chillies. By: Sarina Menezes as you like it The cuisine of Kerala has a wide variety of vegetarian as well as non vegetarian dishes thanks to its diverse culture. Try your hand at these simple dishes from the Malabar coast and explore its delectable treasures.Ingredients: Cabbage.. turmeric powder ¼ tsp. split moong dal ¼ cup. add the curry leaves and then the other prepared ingredients.. coconut ½ grated. Cut the vegetables 2 inches long and a thickness to that of French beans. drain.. small onions 4. crackle the mustard. carrots. drumstick. Whisk well the curd. mustard ¼ tsp. green chillies 2. AVIYAL Serves 4 . oil 1 tbsp. Cook Moong Dal till done and keep aside. To showcase the state’s rich food culture. Method: Coarsely grind coconut.. THOREN Serves 4 . curry leaves 1 sprig. jeera ¼ tsp. beans (cut into small dices) & green peas 3 cups. turmeric a pinch..Ingredients: Fresh Vegetables (beans.. grated coconut 3 tbsp. curry leaves 1 sprig. 84 The International Indian . Method: Blanch the vegetables with turmeric & salt.. Crush lightly the coconut. Boil the vegetables with turmeric powder & salt. green chillies 8. carrots.. add to the cooked vegetables along with the ground ingredients & curry leaves and simmer for a few minutes and finish off with a few drops coconut oil (optional). salt to taste. The Hindu homes in Kerala serve vegetarian food. Chef KK of ‘The Club’ in Mumbai presents his easy to cook dishes that will waft aromas of fragrant spices and tempered coconut oil.Food Kerala. small onions (whole) 2. Add lime juice & coconut oil. chilli powder & salt. Add coriander leaves and mix well. sliced.. Sarina Menezes is a freelance writer based in Mumbai. sliced. Drain most of the water. Boil them with turmeric. each). Mix well. chopped ginger ½ tbsp. Method: Peel and cut the pumpkin into cubes of medium size.. curry leaves 5 sprig. Serves 4 . coriander leaves ¼ cup (chopped). small onions 8 sliced. Grind coconut & jeera to a fine paste. turmeric powder ¼ tsp. garlic. For Paste: Grated coconut 1 cup. chilli powder 1 tbsp.. Boil dried chowli till done. Method: Clean. black pepper corns and coriander.Ingredients: Pomfret 4 (200 gms. cloves 4. Remove when meat is cooked & gravy is thick.. the ground masala and the remaining ingredients except the coriander leaves. Serve hot. Masala: coriander powder 2 tbsp. grated coconut till golden and add to erussery.. salt (as required).. Grind to a fine paste all the masala ingredients.. cinnamon stick 2 inch pieces. grated coconut 3 tbsp. TEMPERING: Oil 2 tbsp. Cook the chicken with water if necessary to adjust the consistency.Ingredients: Yellow pumpkin ¼ kg. curry leaves. banana leaves (as required). mustard ½ tsp. turmeric powder ½ tsp. lime juice from 3 lime. sonf ¼ tsp. chilli powder 1 ½ tsp. Marinate the fish with the ground masala and keep for 30 minutes.. Toast 3 tbsp. cardamom 4. remove skin & cut the chicken into 12 pieces. Tempering: Mustard seeds ½ tsp. India The International Indian 85 . small onions 5 pcs.. ginger 2 inch piece. whole coriander 10. garlic 5. ginger. salt (as required). Wrap each fish in wilted banana leaf and cook over charcoal or on a griddle. jeera ¼ tsp.. Method: Clean the fish and make gashes on either side. s (salt as required) curry leaves 2 sprigs. Then grind them to a fine paste with turmeric powder. garlic 3 pcs. black pepper corn 8. coconut oil 2 tbsp.Ingredients: Chicken 1 kg. turmeric powder 1 level tsp. Mix together all the above items and simmer for 5 minutes. In a kadhai broil small onions.. KOZHI MALI PERALLEN MEEN POLLICHADHU Serves 4 .. pepper powder ½ tsp.. curry leaves 1 sprig.. Mix the chicken. Temper with mustard and small onion. dried red chillies 4.ERUSSERY Serves 4 .. jeera ¼ tsp. dried red chillies. Temper with mustard and curry leaves. dried chowli ½ cup. small onions 4. une is the leading retailer of affordable luxury footwear and accessories. 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M SZ eev i t rt u )G R E. n a o moe I O P ae I a d l P I t r w wept r p o w . i 0 D i . o .0 A RS R N A TD|5 C A N L A T ES 1 OF E . ro s S C T h s I.ua U E e a D bi A . J tf s 7 pr `5 Fm o m r k u 2 s 3 o H . m x -o c M EU @EPT RPRI ET S XA POET S E DBI UA P . Bx 118. o 86 1 e O CnuyC yTw r 8h etr i o e t t . u Tl+10 4 4 77 e ( 8 ) 4 4 77 :9 Bh iarn a L y-9390 60 l d +73169 o Au hbb Dai Dv -91 6404 ai +7 6 018 d 5 Rslhia aAKa h m Ai +7 5260 n -91 3 61 l 5 0 CLTDY ALOA Dbi uaAt-91 3853 n +7 0 424 o 5 O amn M rn +6 955 5 a i-98 3 1 t 76 Qt ar a S ue -94 3 84 c br +731 72 h t 8 1 5 0 RLT N HP |. N w . Tl 91 2277 e +7 4 527 : BN AU U E G LR 2d l r oh Pal n F o Sba er o. 0 EAI S IS 8 0 C E TA S CE 2 0 H N E P RN R |4 FI S 20 O 0 C At ltp t e c ase iu u i cr s u . F o Ofe8 7& 8 8 l r fc 0 o.o ms r t od 1 s a Bna r -6 05 egl u 50 2. free of any superfluous details. so travellers can discover North America in the style that best suits them. 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But unlike a mirage which appears under certain conditions and later disappears. all six artists testified to LG Optimus 3D’s excellent image quality while eliminating the burden of heavy equipment and praised it to be the 3D device of choice. each of these gorgeous jewels are offered at unbelievably affordable prices that will simply astound and baffle you! The secret to their stunning ‘wattage’ lies in LIALI’s acclaimed craftsmanship and ability to feature several diamonds of lesser caratage in close composition. 3 or 5 carat looks while secretly smiling at the affordable price. Image and Video Resolution Furthermore. the leading jewellery retailer in UAE unveils its amazing new diamond jewellery collection titled Mirage including rings. Showcasing powerful brilliance and designed to present from one upto 5 carat solitaire looks. Anuraag Sinha. This is clearly a step in that direction. users may experience dizziness due to the ‘crosstalk effect’. L L 90 The International Indian .” LG Glasses-Free 3D Smartphone Knocks Out 3D Cameras World Renowned Experts Choose LG Optimus 3D As The Best G’s 3D technology has once again caught the attention of global consumers through its collaboration with National Geographic to showcase the world’s first 3D image gallery at this year’s IFA. So I am positive that the new Mirage diamond ring collection will receive a very good response from one and all in the region as they are truly dream jewels sought after by all women.Buzz Word Liali Jewellery Unveils Its Amazing New Diamond Ring Collection. the 3D resolution for HTC’s EVO 3D and Sharp’s Aquos SH-12C is only 2 megapixels. excessive heat. the LG Optimus 3D is the only 3D phone that can take 3D photos with 3. humidity as well as slight bumps can cause misalignment of the two cameras. After shooting. LG’s Optimus 3D sets itself apart from 3D cameras as the only 3D device installed with a self-correcting technology on a real-time basis. 2) Misalignment Correction Technology Mist. LIALI’s Mirage diamond rings collection is fashioned in 18k white gold settings and offers the wearer inflated luxury at happily deflated rates! Now its lucky wearer can flaunt rings boasting 1. Managing Director of LIALI Jewellery. This technology provides maximum level of depth and eliminates possible dizziness. In comparison. MIRAGE! Offers stunning pieces flaunting 1. LIALI’s new Mirage collection is also superb testimony of the Dubai based jewellery retailer’s dedication to offer its fans much sought after dream jewels at temptingly affordable prices. mentioned that the technology is just amazing in such a small device. 3 and 5-carat looks at highly tempting pricefriendly options! IALI Jewellery. one of the participating photographers. LG has thus succeeded in preventing the ‘crosstalk effect’ through an auto convergence technology. And though each of them has the powerful brilliance and look of a 1. 3 or 5 carat ring they come at such highly affordable and tempting prices they will leave you amazed. these dazzling diamonds rings are for real. Every photographer would love to have the power of a great camera in a little phone. The key deciding factor has become the level of convenience between a 3D smartphone and a 3D digital camera. resulting in negative effects on the 3D image quality. which one to choose? 1) No Need to Worry about Dizziness If the degree of convergence is not set correctly. earrings and pendants in round and princess shapes.2 megapixel qualities. said: “LIALI’s new Mirage ring collection is aptly named to capture the very essence of the collection. It therefore provides its users with optimal 3D image quality without the hassle or inconveniences of other devices. Board of Governors of Gulf Medical University was presented with a memento by Umm Al Moumineen Association in appreciation for his great efforts. hoodies. Thumbay Moideen. hooded shirts. skirts and summer dresses that are inspired by the sun and the sea. Spring . Ali Al Harjan.jerseys. Batman: The Dark Knight Rises. Sameera Al Shar.A. U nder the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi. melange inserts. Manda Venkataramana. sparkles and shine. white and navy. as well as patterned shorts and denims in different washes. dobbies and plaids . iconic graphics. Babyshop’s collection features the essential nautical theme with traditional checks. The Congressional address on “Prevention of new lifestyle emerging diseases” was delivered by Dr.Conference on ‘Life Style and Family Health – towards healthier life style’ organized by Umm Al Moumineen Association in collaboration with Gulf Medical University. dip-dye tops.E. For boys. channeling themes for little girls with bright floral patterns in vibrant yellows. Dr. followed by recital from the Holy Quran. Ajman were among the distinguished speakers from the medical fraternity who attended the conference. Ms.E. The luxurious Barbie™ line-up continues to draw Babyshop regulars with its host of power pinks. University of London. Lion Kind in 3D and Marvel Avengers. Nautical Shades and Exciting Character Themes Dominate Chic Ensemble abyshop. Clinical Senior Lecturer in Preventive Medicine & Imaging. B The International Indian 91 .Summer Collection 2012 Lee Cooper and Maui and Sons are the other two brands that retail exclusive lines at Babyshop. is set to launch its chic Spring/Summer Collection 2012. prints and stripes in the classical hues of red. Clinical Senior Lecturer in Preventive Medicine and Imaging. Eminent speakers included Dr. the region’s leading children’s retail concept and a one-stop shop for kids’ products. Prof. GMU. University of London and Senior Research Fellow-Imperial Weight Centre. cambric.Mohammed Raad Al Qaissi. Department of Police. Maui and Sons’ collection includes board shorts. chequered shorts. The line will be available at affordable price points. Ajman – U. plaid and combination shirts. The SS/12 collection resonates with Babyshop’s aim to evolve into a fashion destination for young ones. Chairman-Emirates Osteoporosis Society. Consultant Psychiatrist. and Ruler of Ajman. V-necks and sporty polo t-shirts dominate the line.A. Ms. Founder President. Sara Al Marzooqi. Advisor to the Ruler of Ajman in Financial and Administrative Affairs declared the conference open by distributing mementos to the Speakers and Chairpersons. Abu Dhabi. cotton spandex hoodies. Babyshop has on offer staples that display some of the most awaited movies in 2012 including the Amazing Spiderman. and convertible capris. Mr. Dr. Babyshop’s Spring/ Summer 2012 Collection Highlights Season’s Trends Bright Floral Prints. support and encouragement in the Conference on Lifestyle and Family Health. Conference on Family Health Mustafa Al Izzi. Ajman.is set to give the super summer clothing an uber comfort feel. The collection comprises cotton yarn dyed shirts. For the adrenalin seeking boy-child. College of Medicine. Consultant Surgeon and Dean. Babyshop’s signature brand ‘Juniors’ leads the trend pack. Sharjah.A. Cotton in all its versions . a conference on ‘Life Style and Family Health-towards healthier life style’ was organized by Umm Al Moumineen Association in collaboration with Gulf Medical University at Kempinski Hotel. Member of the Supreme Council of U. denim bottoms.E. Lee Cooper offers an edgy twist to its graphic tees. The grand event started with the National Anthem of U. Mohammed Raad Al Qaissi. pretty pinks and fresh whites. His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi. National Rehabilitation Centre. Notwithstanding the disposal of the case by the Supreme Court on 10 February. If ministers. AVSM. dispassionate and candid manner. His exasperation and a feeling of helplessness forced him to seek legal recourse. both the above aspects need to be discussed in an objective. he does not forfeit this right. why not a Chief? By: Major General Mrinal Suman. governors and the CVC can seek relief from the courts. The debate acquired diverse angles. Two. he was censured for questioning the decision taken by the Ministry of Defence and thereby defying the well-established concept of civilian supremacy. Two aspects for which the Chief was criticised deserve special mention.Soldiers Army Chief Seeks Legal Recourse The Constitution of India empowers every citizen to seek justice from the courts when he feels wronged. One. He is not a lesser citizen of this country. It is a right without any riders and discrimination whatsoever. Very unfairly it was changed to 1950 when he became due for promotion to the rank of Lieutenant General and be in line to be the Chief. TV shows. It is a unique case and may set precedence for the future. print media and the Internet were flooded with assorted opinions and comments on the controversy about the Chief’s date of birth. he was accused of an act of impropriety – a serving Chief approaching the court for the redressal of his grievance. Both are highly sensitive and critical issues. He felt cheated by his military superiors and let down by the Government he serves. By being the Army Chief. VSM. PhD G 92 eneral V K Singh had been promoted up to the rank of Major General with 1951 as his year of birth. The International Indian . ” Similarly. Why should there be a separate yardstick for the top brass of the services? The second question is more sensitive and critical. He has repeatedly reiterated that it is the prerogative of the government to appoint chiefs and he would abide by its decision. Does going to the court on a personal issue amount to challenging civilian supremacy? This is highly unjustified and perverted logic. the AG felt embarrassed and replied sheepishly.The author is a retired General Officer of the Indian Army. Needless to say. If ministers. Defence Minister AK Anthony and the Minister of State for Defence Pallam Raju have been very composed while commenting on the issue. ‘‘ Does going to the court on a personal issue amount to challenging civilian supremacy? This is highly unjustified and perverted logic. governors and CVC can seek relief from the courts. it is alleged that the Chief’s act lowered the standing of the august appointment that he holds and brought a bad name to the noble institution. He has simply asked the court to adjudicate in the matter and deliver a duly considered judicial decision. It is an untenable argument for the following reasons:The Constitution of India empowers every citizen to seek justice from the courts when he feels wronged. Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni stated. By being the Chief. Appealing against a government decision is not an act of defiance or indiscipline. He is not a lesser citizen of this country. On the contrary. albeit they are ‘sad and sorry’. the government deserves credit for a highly mature and sagacious response. The International Indian ‘‘ 93 Coming to the first issue. “You know my case was different. Most critics of the Chief’s act would never think twice before bending backwards to safeguard their own career prospects. During the customary social interaction after the lecture. Seeking redressal of grievances through officially established procedures cannot be construed to be an act of impropriety or insubordination. a student officer reminded him that the AG too had obtained promotion after representations. One is reminded of an address by an Adjutant General (AG) to a Higher Command Course at Mhow a few years ago. The Chief has not questioned any operational directive or official instructions. How does the question of threat to civilian supremacy arise? Compared to the criticism of some veterans. It is so very easy to pontificate that a Chief should resign before fighting for his honor and dignity. The government itself has provided for exhaustive arbitration mechanism for officials who feel aggrieved. Armed Forces Tribunals and many other appellate authorities resolve disputes between the government and its employees. He said it was ‘unofficerlike’ to do that. he has reposed immense faith in the law of the land. When ministers and civilian leadership approach courts. It is neither an act of indiscipline nor a challenge to the civilian authority. The Promotion Board had been very unfair to me. He has been highlighting issues concerning India and its military. why not a Chief? The Chief followed the correct procedure and exhausted all other avenues before approaching the court. When questioned by media. It is a right without any riders and discrimination whatsoever. He is India’s foremost expert on defence modernisation procedures and offsets. “Every human being has a right to seek justice if he feels he has been denied justice and in that sense it is (the) right of every Indian. Senior functionaries regularly approach them and the government abides by their decisions. their ministries or departments are never targeted. These are not construed to be anti-government steps. he does not forfeit this right. The AG spent a considerable part of his speech exhorting officers not to question organisational decisions by submitting nonstatutory/statutory complaints or approaching courts. it needs to be stated that most of us have double standards – one for ourselves and the second one for others. It is suggested that he should have resigned before challenging the Government that he serves. Nothing more should be read into it. The Chief has repeatedly stated that it is a personal matter and does not affect the organisation in any way. The Central Administrative Tribunal.” Appeal to the Supreme Court should be seen as a simple case of an officer seeking justice for the perceived wrong done to him. Finally. It is unfair to link a personal issue with the prestige of the appointment held or the institution. . I knew God was there. ‘‘ Much has been made of Whitney’s church upbringing. I want her to take her time. my mother said: “No way. continued from page 96.. I still had it in me. My relatives. Times. I wanted her to understand. And people felt. all over her. Listen to gospel. that’s okay with you? Whitney: Yeah. Because I knew somewhere in the background you were there praying too. You were given that treasure.Futurequest Futurequest. I couldn’t. Our lifestyle. Oprah: How long were you in rehab? Whitney: I did my stint. Whitney’s got a lot more to learn. I love my mother. And what could happen.. she hardly needed the typical sexy showbiz image. Did you explain to her about the drugs? Whitney: Yes. I want to groom her. She writes.. churched background is a sure recipe for someone becoming an apostate. Oprah: You can see yourself in Bobbi Kristina? Whitney: Oh. how could you not know that that was to be treasured? Would you just sit in your room and do drugs? Whitney: Yeah. I love you. I knew the light was there and I was just trying to get back to it. even as she struggled to hold on to her convictions. Oprah: There’s a wonderful quote by the L. And for never giving up on me. You do your 30 days. Everywhere I just had to have her with me. She’s really starting to sing really well now. I would still read my Bible.” Oprah: Who do you love? Whitney: The Lord. I went to one where I could take my child with me. Oprah: What did you say? How do you tell your child? Whitney: I kind of associated it with our lifestyle. My sisters. My daughter. They said. disgust that so many pop fans felt during Houston’s decline was caused not so much by her personal distress as by her seemingly careless treatment of the national treasure that happened to reside within her. from her media interviews her faith appeared to be authentic. churched background is a sure recipe for someone becoming an apostate. And she sings. Fortunately that did not happen to Whitney.A. If Christianity is the real thing then Christ has to be counterfeit – like oil and vinegar don’t mix. she is. By his grace. but often a traditional. I do. I just kept trying to get back to that spirituality. It seems that perhaps for Houston the “gospel” was no longer in the music. I’m so humbled and so thankful. “The pain. Oprah: Really. She writes creatively all the time. Watch TV. that took her far away from the Christian convictions she grew up with. I didn’t lie to her. Much has been made of Whitney’s church upbringing. You really were given the voice. You were not like any of the others. and frankly.. nor both be true... they can’t either. his goodness. Oprah: So if she chooses to be in this business. Talk on the phone. Oprah: Is she good? Whitney: Yeah. but often a traditional.” . amazingly enough. When I was just getting in the business. and they came for me when I was 14 and wanted to sign me. I don’t want anybody to touch her. My brothers. but I will be there. but she seemed unconcerned about the impact that diluting her Christian values had on herself and others. This extract from Whitney’s 2009 interview on the Oprah Winfrey show offers sad insights into a life gone awry. With a voice like hers. I would still read my Bible. Like my mom was there with me. The International Indian 94 ‘‘ . points out: “One hears the belief expressed in different ways that each must create one’s own meaning or that it is morally permissible for everyone to do one’s “own thing. The International Indian ‘‘ Unfortunately.” she seems to have forgotten Psalm 46: 1.” In reviewing the research done on church life between 1996 and 2002. knowing all the inherent risks. Whitney intended to guide 18-year old Bobbi Kristina into show business.’ betray her lack of a sense of purpose or understanding of her faith? Whitney got it wrong – self love is an important psychological trait.” Until the facts are known we can only speculate about how Houston died. I acted. but in God’s mercy for his wayward offspring there are meaningful spiritual connotations for a premature exit. you can do nothing. he wondered. is that they are practiced religious consumers who were offered a deal that they simply could not turn down. Duty was Joy.’ He blogs at www. Love is other-centred and acts. I acted. washingtontimes. and Jesus’ startling statement in John 15:5: “..” The result was that “millions of Boomers who said the ‘sinners. a very present help in trouble.Frank Raj is TII’s founder-editor & publisher Frank is author of ‘Desh Aur Diaspora’ and co-author of the upcoming publication ‘Universal Book of the Scriptures.wordpress. researcher George Barna stumbled upon a most disconcerting fact. Wells in his book Above All Earthly Powers. Despite her own abysmal personal life. U. we can speculate it had more to do with God’s favour rather than his wrath. and her choices cost her dearly. that Baby Boomers (persons born during the demographic Post-World War II baby boom between the years 1946 and 1964. For Whitney. I woke and saw that life was Duty.” provided no one gets hurt – a strange proviso which has no moral legs upon which to stand on in an empty universe!” It appears Houston could not clarify for herself who is sovereign – God or her audience? – what was her authority in real life – Scripture or culture? And what is important – faithfulness or success? Again when singing.’ prayer.S. and behold. But there had to be a reason she was called away at 48 – for her grieving fan base it will remain a mystery.” is not “the greatest love of all. she may have left the genuine for the fake..com/neighborhood/no-2-religion-yes-2faith/ in the Communities at the Washington Times.S.” David F. for without Me. Why is it. according to the U. Census Bureau) were initially so opposed to religion but now they make up fully half of the ‘born again’ movement in America? The answer. he concluded. asked for forgiveness and went on with their life. but –“Learning to love yourself. whether the prescription drugs found in her hotel room or the alcohol CNN reported she was seen having a few hours before she died had anything to do with it. “I Didn’t Know My Own Strength. and behold. For “a one-time admission of imperfection and weakness” they received in return “permanent peace with God.com Read more of Frank’s work at: http://communities. with all the money in the world for her daughter to choose any career she wanted.” Love is other-centred and acts. like the nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore wrote: “I slept and dreamt that life was Joy. with virtually nothing changed. like the nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore wrote: “I slept and dreamt that life was Joy.no2christianity. when three score years and ten is the median. Do the lyrics of her hit song ‘The Greatest Love of All.” And Barna adds that they “saw it as a deal in which they could exploit God and get what they wanted without giving up anything of consequence. God is our refuge and our strength. ‘‘ 95 . Duty was Joy. I woke and saw that life was Duty. indeed. – Romans 8:38 It is hardly a matter of wonder that the country that gave the world instant tea and instant coffee should be the one to give it instant Christianity. She could have been a role model for millions of desperate young people for many years to come. Neither death nor life.. all of them. who are God’s gifted musical instruments – very few talents who can give us a glimpse of heaven. Tozer By: Frank Raj M 96 IDDLE EAST. continued on page 94. The International Indian . and even for someone like me who does not constantly tune in to my favourite music.. 2012— There is no voice like Whitney Houston’s. Whitney Houston was extravagantly blessed to be a blessing. nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. most merciful. She has left behind a legacy of phenomenal worldly achievement many will aspire to – but her success ultimately may have cut short her life. February 25. Whitney is one of those rare individuals. but she chose a lifestyle of addiction and compromise...30 And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. for God forgives sins. – A. – Sura 39:53 Even if the most sinful person resolves to worship Me with single-minded loving devotion. – Bhagavad Gita: 9. W. for He is much forgiving.Futurequest Did Whitney Houston know ‘The Greatest Love Of All?’ O My servants who have transgressed against your souls! Despair not of the grace of God. such a person must be regarded as a saint because of making the right resolution. And it cannot be denied that it was American Fundamentalism that brought instant Christianity to the gospel churches. but somewhere she lost her spiritual foothold. whenever she comes on the air one cannot help but be still and listen. . a multi-cultural. Manipal University Dubai is fully equipped to offer world-class facilities in sync with your international career aspirations. As advanced as your career aspirations. Dubai Campus As large as your dreams. We have 6 disciplines on offer at the Undergraduate and Postgraduate level: Engineering Interior Design Management Bio Technology Media & Communications Information Technology The new 250.manipaldubai. multi-disciplinary.com . 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