All things Indian. In Australia.
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FEBRUARY 2024
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The Daily Telegraph’s
Most influential Indian-Australians in NSW C e l e b r a t i n g 2 9 y e a r s a n d 2 7 M u l t i c u l t u r a l M e d i a A w aJULY r d2023 s1 Level 24/44 Market St, Sydney 2000 • GPO Box 108, Sydney 2001 • Ph: +61 2 9279 2004
2 FEBRUARY 2024
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EDITORIAL All things Indian. In Australia.
PUBLISHER Pawan Luthra EDITOR Rajni Anand Luthra CONTRIBUTORS Torsha Sen, Vivek Asri, Bedashree Gogoi, Renesh Krishnan, Lakshmi Ganapathy, Vaishakh Subin Reshmi, Nadine Silva, Chitra Sudarshan, Dhanya Samuel, Frankey Gerard Fernandes, Mahesh White-Radhakrishnan, Sandip Hor, Auntyji, Minal Khona SALES AND MARKETING Charu Vij ADMN Aanchal Matta
Indian Link is a monthly newspaper published in English. No material, including advertisements designed by Indian Link, may be reproduced in part or in whole without the written consent of the editor. Opinions carried in Indian Link are those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by Indian Link. All correspondence should be addressed to:
INDIAN LINK MEDIA GROUP Level 24/44 Market St, Sydney 2000 GPO Box 108, Sydney 2001 Ph: 02 9279-2004 Email: info@indianlink.com.au
Time for Indian Australians to shine BY PAWAN LUTHRA
A
recent feature in a leading Sydney paper, of 25 influential Indian Australians in NSW, was a wonderful acknowledgement of how well our community is faring. Having watched the community for so long, we at Indian Link know of course that the list could be much longer, and probably deserves addendum in future iterations, with nationwide mentions. There are an estimated 1 million people of Indian origin living in Australia, just under 4% of the total population of 27 million. Though the widely acclaimed 2018 White Paper on India, “The Indian Economic Strategy to 2035” predicted the number of Indian-born Australians will reach 1.4 million by 2031, with the current trajectory, it is possible that this target may be achieved by 2028.
The Indian migrant is young and aspirational, with an average age of 36 years as compared to a migrant from England moving to Australia at 59 years. In a world where there is demand for younger people, the cohort of migrants coming from India are the ones who will be doing the heavy lifting as the average Australian population ages. The Indian migrant also falls in the second highest tax paying migrant group. According to the 2021 Census, the median individual weekly income for the Indian-born in Australia is $1167, compared with $615 for all overseas-born and $802 for all Australian-born. The Indian diaspora is well represented in the Australian business community. Based on a 2021 snapshot of company data, a report by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, noted that 21,000 people of Indian heritage are employed as directors and managers in at least 996 Australian organisations, with more than 10% of them being directors, managers or in senior positions.
Across Australia, the representation of people of Indian heritage in senior academic roles at lecturer level and above in universities is increasing, having grown from 1.75% in 2016 to 1.92 % in 2020. What is emerging is a young, highly educated, and ambitious migrant community, with many similarities to their adopted country stemming from the historic links of both with one country, England. There is good understanding of the Westminster system – the doctrine of separation of powers under this system is a fundamental tenet of a liberal democracy – something which the Indian migrant enjoys in both India and Australia. The common language of English, the education system, and the sports enjoyed in both the countries, make it easier for the migrant Indian to settle, consolidate and grow in their new lives down under. The Daily Telegraph feature puts it out there that Indian-Australians are great contributors to Australia – enthusiastic, committed, resourceful and proactive.
FEBRUARY 2024 3
CONTENTS SPECIAL FEATURES ACCOLADES The Indian links in this year’s Australia Day honours
CHESS
Rishi Sardana, 2024 Aust Chess Champion
CONVERSATION
Neena Gupta interview Sach kahoon toh…
CONVERSATION Mihir Ahuja: Desi Jughead
MUSIC
India at Grammys 2024
4 FEBRUARY 2024
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COVER STORY POWER LIST The Daily Telegraph lists the Top 25 Most Influential Indian Australians in NSW
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ADVERTORIAL
A FAMILY DAY TRIP TO BALLARAT: Begonias, Gold Rush, and Wildlife Encounters
Looking for a family-friendly day trip from Melbourne? Khushboo shares her travel tips for the city of Ballarat, just a short 90-minute drive or train ride from Melbourne.
W
hat makes Ballarat stand out for
Ballarat Wildlife Park is a gem. Both our kids,
us? Well, this place is just a perfect
Aarya and Viren, couldn't get enough of hand-
mix of history, nature, and a
feeding kangaroos and the unforgettable koala
diverse range of family-friendly
encounter. The family-run park also offers bookable Animal Encounters with rangers
attractions.
providing a unique and up-close experience
A highlight for us is the upcoming Ballarat
with the animals.
Begonia Festival. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Lake Wendouree and the Ballarat
A journey to Kryal Castle is a step into the
Botanical Gardens, this festival is a must-see.
realm of knights jousting on horseback,
The Robert Clark Conservatory becomes a
magical potions, mazes, and archery. Open
haven
a
weekends during school terms and daily
mesmerizing display. And here's a tip – even
during the Victorian school holidays, it's
if you can't make it to the festival weekend
an adventure filled with medieval charm.
for
rare
begonias,
creating
(9-11 March), the Begonia displays will be in
As our day unfolded, we discovered
place four weeks afterward, allowing you to
delightful dining options in the town. Our top picks are — Lilly’s at Eureka,
catch a glimpse of the floral wonders.
Hydrant Food Hall, Il Piccolo Gelato,
Entertainment at the festival is diverse, with SWAY’s
new
show
and The Forge Pizzeria
featuring
performers on tall poles, roving
that
stilt walkers, live music, and
choices to satisfy our
offer
diverse
activities such as face
taste buds. Don't miss
painting, arts and crafts,
the delightful Goldmine
a maze, and an obstacle
Pancakes for kids at
course. The reopening
Lilly's at Eureka – they
of the historic Ballarat
come with a sweet surprise
Fernery, dating back
of
to the 1880s, adds
chocolate dirt!
another
layer
hidden
lollies
in
the
Our day trip to Ballarat was
of
a kaleidoscope of experiences
fascination.
– from history to nature, and
Best of all, the festival is free over the Labour Day
so much family fun. So, pack
long weekend, offering a
your bags, embark on an because there is so much
perfect blend of experiences with
to see and do. Stepping into the
food, drinks, and activities. Capture
adventure. Overall, there is so much to explore in Ballarat,
and
who
the vibrant atmosphere and your family's
gold rush era, you can pan for gold, and
smiles against the backdrop of the beautiful
this time, we added a special touch with the
knows what surprises it
surroundings, ensuring plenty of colorful
unique Red Hill Photographic Rooms – a truly
holds for your family!
photo opportunities.
unforgettable experience. Don't miss Winter
In addition to the festival, Ballarat offers a range of family attractions for a day trip. We keep visiting Sovereign Hill every year,
Wonderlights during the winter school
Discover more travel
holidays.
inspiration at
For wildlife fans just like my little ones,
visitballarat.com.au
FEBRUARY 2024 5
Photo: Sporting News
YOUR SAY
ON RAMANATHAN KRISHNAN, ‘THE FATHER OF INDIAN TENNIS’ Following Rohan Bopanna’s AO Doubles title last month, LAKSHMI GANAPATHY travelled back in time to the 1960s, when India’s Ramanathan Krishnan seeded 4th in the world. Sriraman Annaswamy wrote: Ramanthan Krishnan - India's GOAT tennis player! Thanks a ton Indian Link for following up on my humble suggestion and coming up with such an inspirational story, well done. Such a woderful tribute. The one-time World No.3 was the only Indian till date to reach the semi-finals at Wimbledon (twice in 1960 and 1961), and one whose trackrecord included victories against Laver (yes, the legendary Rod Laver of the Rod Laver Arena fame at his peak), Neale Fraser, Lew Hoad, Ashley Cooper, Roy Emerson, Wilhelm Bungert et al. Incredibly, he turned down a guaranteed US $150,000 offer from Jack Kramer (Kramer's pro circus) in 1959 so that he could fight for India in the Davis Cup. Let's hope India gets another such Ramanathan Krishnan very soon! PS: I grew up about 50 metres from their house (and tennis centre) in 1970s/80s Chennai and have personally met all three generations of their legendary tennis family (T.K. sir, Krishnan sir and of course, Ramesh). Little did I realise when I met Krishnan sir out at Mandaiveli / Mylapore during the my school years what an incredible legend he truly is! Misra Nayanendu wrote: Ramanathan Krishnan was a top international lawn tennis player of his time. He was a touch player. Now we have tennis players who rely more on power tennis. Surinder Sharma wrote: Legend of all time. Ullas Chakraborty wrote: Yes. I can well remember him, my childhood tennis hero, and the father of Ramesh Krishnan, who was also an international tennis star. Nishi Mukerji wrote: India’s greatest ever tennis player by many a mile. It was wonderful to see him play. Thank you. Sanjoy Chatterjee wrote: Who can forget his epic triumph over Tomas Koch of Brazil in the final rubber, coming back to win from being down 2 sets and 0-30, 2-5 in the 3rd set. This was the Davis Cup inter zone final at South Club, Calcutta. India thus entered the Challenge Round to face Australia (1966). Gautam Dabholkar wrote: He was honoured with the Padma Bhushan. Pankaj Srivastava wrote: He beat all the top players of his time reached the semi-final of Wimbledon tennis championship twice. He had the most deceptive ground strokes of his time, but his service was weak so he could not scale the heights he deserved. K.V. Rajagopal wrote: Inarguably, the father of Indian tennis is Ramanathan Krishnan. He withstood Rod Laver's bravery in his prime. The legend's backhand was comparable to the great Ken Rosewall. Above all, he is a wonderful human being in the few interactions yours truly has had. Vivek Varshney wrote: A great player. Was junior Wimbledon champ, reached the SF of Men’s Singles at Wimbledon, and took India to the Challenge Round in Davis Cup Bijit Basu wrote: Reached Wimbledon semifinal twice, both times lost to the eventual winner and both whom he beat in Queens Club tournament held before that. Took us to Davis Cup challenge round beating Brazil. We lost to Australia in the final 4-1. Sudhakar Chincholkar wrote: He was India's topmost tennis player who was seeded in the top 8 players in Wimbledon. Moreover, in 1962 when Rod Laver made his first Grand Slam in a calendar year, in the whole year had lost only twice. On both occasions, he was beaten by Ramanathan Krishnan. We can't forget how he defeated Ony Parun in the Davis Cup semifinal and took us into final first time. Vasanthakumar HP wrote: Great player. Seeded player in Wimbledon. Shakuntala Trehan wrote: Brought fame and name to India. Rajesh Dave wrote: Thanks. Remember Krishnan from school days. Didn’t realise he had climbed to No.4 globally, AND defeated Rod Laver, wow! Would love to see more Indians coming through the ranks. And ah, the timber rackets - wish I had kept mine as antiques! Think I broke them all anyways. 6 FEBRUARY 2024
AUSTRALIA DAY AMBASSADORS You liked our piece on the community members who served as Ambassadors this 26 Jan. Ranju Sharma wrote: Congratulations Deepakji – continue with your good work. Happy Australia Day and Happy Republic Day for India. Sonia Sadiq Gandhi wrote: Thanks for sharing. Absorbing the regional warmth and care of the caring community of Junee. Taj Pabari wrote: Thanks so much for sharing. I was so excited to spend one of my favourite days of the year in Hinchinbrook Shire with Ramon Jayo but the cyclone has made things a little tricky. Looking forward to coming up to Hinchinbrook and celebrating our great country with you in 2025, Mr Mayor! Michael Rees wrote: Well done Khushaal Vyas! Danish Jamil wrote: Congrats Nilesh Makwana! Binduben Prajapati wrote: Congratulations Deepak Vinayak. Harsimran Kaur wrote: Congratulations, Khushaal Vyas. Sunila Kotwal wrote: Congratulations Asha Bhat. Great achievement. So proud of you.
INDIAN LINKS IN THE 2024 AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS On 26 January we published online our interviews with this year’s Australia Day honourees from the Indian community Amit Dasgupta AM wrote: Heartiest felicitations to all persons of Indian origin who have earned this recognition by dint of the significant contribution they have made! May you all continue to serve as role models. Sharon Rundle wrote: Congratulations, Ms Harinder Sidhu! I am delighted to hear this news. Thank you again for your support as the Australian High Commissioner to India. (My co-author) Meenakshi and I will always be grateful. Pawan Luthra wrote: Harinder Sidhu’s tenure at the Australian High Commission, New Delhi at a time when the Australia-India relationship was taking off, paved the path for where we are today. A well-deserved honour. Alfredo Pérez Bravo wrote: Congratulations dear Harinder! Well deserved. Pradeep Seth and Anoop Johar also wrote in messages of congratulations to Ms Harinder Sidhu who received the AM honour this year. Kriti C wrote: Wonderful to see Dr Sachint Lal, a cherished family friend and mentor be honoured, albeit posthumously.
OPENING LINES We asked, on Republic Day weekend: Of which book is this the opening line: “WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a SOVEREIGN SOCIALIST SECULAR DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC and to secure to all its citizens…” Readers Jyoti Dogra, Anu Shivaram, Upma Khanna, Jay Shah, Clarion Pereira, Taufeeq Ahmed Sheikh and Ronja Sen got it right: The Constitution of India.
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NEENA GUPTA SITS DOWN WITH TORSHA SEN
WHEN 12 VIC SCHOOL PRINCIPALS TRAVELLED TO INDIA One half of the education exchange initiative ‘Women in School Leadership’, in India, has concluded successfully. Donna Wright wrote: Proud to be a Principal representative of this group. I can only encourage other Victorian women to apply in 2024. Please reach out for personal insights. Lisa Hayman wrote: Terrific opportunity for all involved. Chris Curnow wrote: Fantastic Donna Wright Joel Backwell wrote: So glad this program continues. Kimberley Tempest wrote: Sounds fabulous Donna. Bidhan Bala wrote: Fantastic! Shally Relan wrote: We are looking forward to welcoming to Victoria our Indian Principals in May.
The Hindi film actor was in Sydney filming an Indian-Australian production Anurag Arora wrote: Very entertaining. She is quite herself. Talking about nepotism on the sly! Abhi Mukherjee wrote: Excellent stuff. Manju Jha wrote: Interesting that she wants Masaba to play the young Neena. Fabulous interview. Rida Aleem Khan wrote: Lol, this is awesome! Neeru Saluja wrote: A good interview. I enjoyed how the conversation flowed naturally and you both had a lovely camaraderie. The questions were intelligent and showed you did your research well. Well done! Aroona Mir wrote: Torsha, I just watched it, so impressive! I'm so proud of you. Neena Gupta is as beautiful, as graceful and as eloquent as ever. Rajni Luthra wrote: Great interview Torsha! And so can we look forward to a Guy Sebastian interview now, given he’s in the movie with Neena Gupta? Aparajita Roy wrote: Awesome. Sanghamitra Sen and Smita Yogini Goda wrote: Oi oi oi! Dina Rizka Budiarto Mok wrote: Loving it.
WHERE IN INDIA This monastery is famous for the second largest Tibetan settlement outside Tibet. Where in India?
WHERE IN OZ The oldest university in Australia, this is one of the country's six sandstone universities. Where in Oz?a
Readers Smita Pawar Nashikkar, Rajeev Ramakar Tiwari and Rohit Ganesh got it right: The University of Sydney.
SAY IT AGAIN
Readers Augustine Jiljilmary, Deepak Vincent and Sujitha Suji R got it right: Namdroling Monastery, Coorg, Karnataka.
“While Carbone was busy warning about the impending dismissal of backyard cricket, he missed the irony of his comments. Kolkata has produced some cricket greats, not least Sourav Ganguly, popularly known as the Prince of Kolkata and considered one of India’s finest ever batsmen and captains. Cricket is the lifeblood of the Indian city, where children don’t need backyards to play their beloved sport. They play in the streets or anywhere they can hit a ball.” Alexandra Smith, SMH’s State Political Editor, on Fairfield mayor Frank Carbone’s comment that the NSW government’s housing push will end backyard cricket and turn “western Sydney into Kolkata”.
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COVER STORY
Prof Chennupati Jagdish AC, Australian Academy of Sciences
Prue Car, Deputy Premier
Neville Roach, business & diversity leader Hament Dhanji, NSW Supreme Court judge
Tarun Gupta, Stockland CEO and MD
Lisa Singh, Australia India Institute
Dr Marlene Kanga AO, renowned STEM leader
Dave Sharma, NSW Senator
Gurnam Singh, Swami Army and AISEC Society
Maria Thattil, Miss Universe AUSTRALIA 2020
Jai Patel, KPMG head of Indian Business
Naseema Sparks, business leader
Amar Singh, TUrbans4Australia
Manjit Gujral, restaurateur Veena Sahajwalla, inventor and scientist
Amitabh Mall, Woolworths chief analytics officer
Swati Dave, CAIR chair
Tushar and Nishant Menon, My Muscle Chef founders Tim Thomas, CAIR CEO
Priya Sharma, content creator
8 FEBRUARY 2024
Shashank Achuta, chef
Pawan and Rajni Luthra, Indian Link
Dr Rajiv Rattan, Indian Doctors in Australia
Gurinder Sandhu, Cricketer
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Daniel Mookhey, NSW Treasurer
POWER LIST
Journalist Matthew Benns, co-creator of the list that has had the NSW Indian community all aflutter this fortnight, spills the details BY PAWAN LUTHRA
T
he chatter in the Indian-Australian community early this month was about the Top 25 Influential and Powerful Indian Australians list released by The Daily Telegraph newspaper. That a mainstream and leading media organisation has invested in studying the community at close quarters, and produced such a list, is testimony to the growing influence of Indian-origin Australians. Our community is touching the million mark - at just under 4% of the Australian population and if the past few years are any indication, is growing strongly. As we contribute proactively to Australian life, our impact is being seen in government, business, medicine, scientific research, sport, new media, and other fields. Matthew Benns, editor at large at The Daily Telegraph and co-compiler of the list, told Indian Link it was this that prompted the idea of a list of movers and shakers. “The influence of the community and their contribution to NSW’s growth story, now and in the foreseeable future, was identified by our editor at The Daily Telegraph, Ben English,” Benns said. “He commissioned our senior journalist Angira Bharadwaj and I to look into compiling a list of 25 most influential Indian-Australians in NSW.” Research for the endeavour began about a month ago.
“The more we dug into it, the more exciting it became,” Benns revealed. “We identified two of NSW’s leading politicians, the Treasurer Daniel Mookhey and Deputy Premier Prue Carr being of Indian origin. Not a lot of people know about their Indian origins.” That two previous NSW political leaders, former Premier Barry O’Farrell and former Opposition leader Jodi McKay, have been working to promote trade and better relations between India and NSW, was Angira Bharadwaj; Matthew Benns another interesting observation here is the living bridge to the world’s for Benns. fastest growing economy, and having “Everyone we spoke to has been excited stronger ties is important to both countries. about the enormous trade potential between So, knowing all of that, we felt the need to Australia and NSW. Exports between India highlight how important the growing Indian and Australia are on course to get to $45 diaspora is to all people in NSW.” billion in the next decade from the current That the list is the first of its kind, is also $25 billon,” Benns said. being marvelled at by readers of Indian A large part of this engagement will be origin. driven by the Indian diaspora, especially in “Yes, it is the first time we have compiled NSW. such a power list for a local community, as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s opposed to our annual Power 100,” Benns well-meaning note during his visit here in confirmed. May 2023, about the importance of the How did the Indian list take its final diaspora in making the dosti (friendship) form? stronger between India and Australia, has “We asked people in the community to been repeated multiple times since. tell us who they thought should be included Building on this narrative, NSW and why. We then followed up with our own Treasurer Daniel Mookhey (who heads The research to finalise the top 25. We applied Daily Telegraph list), has called the local some set criteria but also looked at not so NSW community “the secret weapon” in scientific elements. We asked ourselves, how promoting trade and business activities. do we balance power and influence? How Benns added, “The Indian community
do you measure the influence of someone who is in an important business, against an influencer?” In the end, Benns and Bharadwaj included a diverse range of professions in the power list, which made it to the cover of their publication. Politicians such as Daniel Mookhey, Prue Carr and Dave Sharma, scientists and academics Dr Marlene Kanga, Prof. Chennupati Jagdish and Prof. Veena Sahajwalla, restaurateur Manjit Gujral and chef Shashank Achuta, corporate honchos Tarun Gupta, Amitabh Mall and Jai Patel, influencers Gurnam Singh and Priya Sharma, charity guru Amar Singh, and Pawan and Rajni Luthra from community media, are just some of the names on the list. A fair bit of discussion has ensued since the release on 5 Feb, about those picked for mention. Like other such lists, there have been judgments about the relative merits and otherwise of those included. Yet Benns claims he has had good response. “We’ve had fantastic feedback, and plans are afoot for more such initiatives with other communities.” “And yes,” he concluded, “we hope to be back with an Indian-Australian Power List for 2025.” FEBRUARY 2024 9
ACCOLADES
O N O H Y A D A I L A R T S U A
“AUSTRALIA IS A MERITOCRACY” HARINDER SIDHU, AM
W
e know of Harinder Sidhu AM as the former Australian High Commissioner to India, having served there from 2016 to 2020. She is currently the Australian High Commissioner to New Zealand, and has also served in Cairo, Damascus and Moscow. She speaks here with PAWAN LUTHRA about her career in foreign affairs, her role in India, and the influence of her Indian ethnicity in her professional capacity. Pawan Luthra (PL): Welcome to Indian Link, Your Excellency, and congratulations on your recognition. How do you feel about this latest honour? Harinder Sidhu (HS): I often hear people say they feel humbled, and now I know what that really means. That is my first overwhelming feeling. I’m humbled in two ways: one is that I look around me and recognise that I'm surrounded by so many people who are worthy of recognition… the great privilege and honour of this recognition is not lost on me. The second thing is also to recognise that for what I'm being honoured for, I never really did alone. You do it by standing on the shoulders of giants, with the support of people around you. It's genuinely a team effort, who you become - and my family, and my mother and father have been my most foundational support. PL: Let’s go back to when you entered the highly competitive graduate program with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFAT) in 1987 – less than 1% of applicants were admitted. You arrived in this country as a 10-year-old, with no elite connections, and yet you have risen to the top of your profession. What’s been your family's reaction? HS: They are very, very proud. When I joined the Foreign Service, it really confirmed in my father's mind that Australia is a meritocracy, that you don't have to have privilege or connections to join the Foreign Service, you just have to work hard. That's always been his ethos. I think both my mother and father are very delighted. But my father always believed I could achieve anything, so he’s not surprised. They constantly tell me how proud they are of me, and that means a lot. PL: That’s fantastic. Your Excellency, Foreign Minister Penny Wong said recently, “We can go to most parts of the world and 10 FEBRUARY 2024
Brief stop at the ‘mother ship’ Canberra, in between assignments
"The challenge in diplomacy today is how we manage competing forces in the world. We are seeing much more exercise of influence and much more soft power instead of hard power. We're having to learn new methods and new ways of conducting diplomacy". say, we are you. We look like you.” How did being an Australian-Indian play into your posting as India's High Commissioner? HS: The ability to look at the world through the eyes of Indians, and to understand how India comes into the world, is really the job of a diplomat. I realised through my upbringing and my cultural background, it was easier to make those connections and to understand how India looked at the world, and to explain that back to Australia, because of course, I speak both languages in that sense. It's been a tremendous asset, and we have, as a foreign affairs department, actively tried to use this asset. I think my great effectiveness in India was, in large part, due to my ability to make that connection. Most people in Australia who’ve grown up in migrant communities have learned the art of cultural interpretation, and that is so much of what we do here as well. Our job as diplomats is to take Australia to the world, and that’s not just what we stand for, but it's also who we are. PL: Your posting as High Commissioner to India came when the relationship between the countries was just starting to warm up. What do you consider the professional and personal highlights of your tenure in India? HS: I think my professional highlight was building layer upon layer of the IndiaAustralia relationship. I was working very closely with folks in Canberra and Delhi to really elevate the relationship to what I call a first-tier relationship. That was something
that we articulated in the Australian Foreign Policy White Paper in 2017, and it culminated in the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which we agreed on soon after my departure in 2020. It was really a shift in the stature of the relationship, along the way India joined the Quad, as did Australia. We deepened our strategic relationship. All those underpinnings led to the conclusion of an early harvest Free Trade Agreement after my departure. The shift in our relationship with India is something I feel very satisfied by and honoured to be a part of. My personal highlight was taking my father to his birth village in Punjab. We were greeted with all the fanfare that you expect from Punjabis - it was so meaningful for my father because he was getting older, and he knew he wouldn't have another chance to go back. There was this wonderful moment where this old man came up to my father, and the two men hugged each other, saying things like, you haven't changed a bit. It turned out that this fellow was my dad's childhood school friend. It was very touching. PL: I can well imagine. Ms Sidhu, over 37 years, you’ve been there when Russia opened under the Glasnost reforms, when 9/11 took place, when the Middle East changed after Saddam Hussein. You saw the rise and rise of China, and the growth of young India. Right at this moment, we’re seeing the Israel-Palestine issue on our headlines. We’re grappling with violent
Source: X
For significant service to public administration, and to foreign affairs
conflicts, security threats, and energy shocks. The world is just less benign. What do you see as challenges for today’s diplomats, and Australian diplomats in particular? HS: I think the challenge is how we manage competing challenges, you know, the competing forces in the world at the moment. Diplomats need to constantly keep an eye on their national interest as they weave their way through all these challenges. These challenges are becoming more diverse and more amorphous. We are seeing much more exercise of influence and much more soft power instead of hard power. We're having to learn new methods and new ways of conducting diplomacy. There's a lot more public facing work that diplomats have to do to bring our publics along with us, and we need to deal with a wider cross section of the community rather than just government to government relations. It's been a big learning curve; the pace at which things are happening is very quick. Decisions have to be made quickly and the risks of getting things wrong can be quite high. It's perhaps more challenging to be a diplomat now than over the period I've seen; the challenges are coming thick and fast. PL: For new migrants, what would be your advice about settling down and succeeding in a new country? HKS: I talked about being able to speak in both cultures. But it's also about understanding you’re Australian first, and you can never lose sight of that. Your cultural background is valuable, but you do need to always put Australia first in your role. Understanding how Australia thinks, what we care about and what our values are in the world is very important to learn and to project because that's what we do every single day.
PL: If you hadn’t become a diplomat, where do you think your skill set would have taken you? HS: I would say a history teacher. I trained in law, but I have a real fascination for history. The thing about being a diplomat is that you’re at the coalface of history. I have had the enormous privilege of witnessing history unfold in front of me. So, in some ways, I'm indulging my passion for history and politics, which has been a source of constant fascination for me. PL: If you had to write a book, what would it be, Your Excellency? HS: It'd be [something like] ‘a view on the world’, you know, about how your personal experiences always colour how you see things. The interesting thing about historical accounts is that everybody will see things a little bit differently from their own perspective. PL: And finally, Your Excellency, at the recent World Cup cricket final between Australia and India, did you have celebratory lamingtons in the fridge, or was it gajar ka halwa? HS: Lamingtons for sure!
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OUR S
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FEBRUARY 2024 11
ACCOLADES
O N O H Y A D A I L A R T S U A
LIVER TRANSPLANTS FOR CHILDREN Dr Ramananda Kamath, OAM For service to paediatric gastroenterology
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s a seven-year-old child growing up in Kasargod in Kerala, Ramananda Kamath watched as his family’s buffalo delivered a calf. Three days later, he would watch the young calf froth at the mouth consistently, convulse and die. It was a memory that stuck on, and one that pushed him towards medical science. “It took me more than thirty years to realise what the poor animal was going through,” Dr Kamath told Indian Link. “It’s what we do a liver transplant for in young children.” Today, Dr Kamath has received an OAM from the Australian government for his extensive work in paediatric gastroenterology, including pioneering work in liver transplants in children. It was in the 1970s that Dr Ramananda Kamath established the new department of paediatric gastroenterology at Children’s Hospital Camperdown, which later became Westmead Children’s Hospital. “It was one of the first in the world,
alongside select hospitals in the US and Europe,” Dr Kamath said. As Head of the Department, he and his colleagues performed Australia’s earliest liver transplants on children. “The instruments were only just being developed,” Dr Kamath recounted. “We didn’t have little scopes to use with children. I travelled to Saint-Pierre University Hospital in Brussels, where someone had devised a scope from a new Rolls Royce invention tiny scopes to look inside airplane engines. It worked wonderfully for us.” Having learned how to use this and other pieces of equipment, Dr Kamath taught others in his department at Sydney. “The processes of learning and teaching went on concurrently,” he laughed. And yet, he has seen his wards who learned from him, go on to practice across the globe – in Perth, Brisbane, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Surabaya, Coimbatore in India, and Liverpool in the UK. “I feel great at the OAM honour,” Dr Kamath remarked. “And obligated to this country which gave me a chance to flourish when my own country did not.” A linguistic minority in India as a Konkani speaker, he detailed how he was discriminated against as a student and as a young doctor starting off. “I struggled to gain entry into medical college in a state outside my own, even though I was a high-
achieving all-round student. I struggled to find a job even after finishing medical college with remarkable success.” Ultimately, he managed to finish his MBBS at Madras University, and did an MD and DCH (Diploma in Child Health) at the prestigious CMC Vellore. It was at Vellore that he finally got his first job, conducting epidemiological research for the US Public Health Service, now called the Communicable Disease Centre (CDC). After brief stints in St. Bartholomew’s Hospital London, and in Malaysia with his Malaysian-born Indian-origin wife, he moved to Australia. “Even though I had a job waiting for me here, I had to wait a full year to get a visa,” he recalled, laughing.
TEACHER AND MENTOR TO YOUNG DOCTORS Dr. SACHINT LAL, OAM For service to tertiary education, and to the community
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r. Sachint Lal was awarded the OAM posthumously in this year’s Australia Day honours. Best known as the founder of the Hawkesbury Clinical School at the University of Notre Dame, he also headed the school between 2008 and 2022. Sadly, Dr Lal died on 7 October last year from complications of leukaemia. He was 88. His son, Wollongong-based psychiatrist Dr Sharat Lal, is sad his father is not alive to receive the OAM. “He would have been very proud and honoured to receive a medal in his adopted homeland,” Sharat told Indian Link. “We’re very proud of him.” A Patna lad, Dr Lal completed his MBBS in 1959 and obtained a Master of Surgery in 1965.
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He moved to the UK in 1968 and achieved the prestigious Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons in 1973. “It was difficult however for Indian doctors to get specialist positions in the UK. So, that inspired the move to Australia in 1977,” Sharat said. “It was tough, but my father’s sister was here, which made the move easier. No one regretted it. We’ve very much enjoyed living in Australia. It’s been home for a long time,” Sharat said. “The best thing that happened for Dad was to be appointed as a surgeon at Hawkesbury District Health Service, where
his clinical school was based, in 1986.” In 1993, he was admitted as a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS). After more than 20 years as a distinguished specialist surgeon in the Hawkesbury-Nepean region, Dr. Lal established the Hawkesbury Clinical School in 2005. He built the foundation for the successful delivery of teaching to many cohorts of students by developing relationships with local clinicians and healthcare professionals, according to his former colleague and friend Dr. Grant Shalaby, who nominated him for the OAM. “Having personally witnessed those student journeys since the inception of the school, the universal admiration and respect that Sachint commanded from colleagues and students is a legacy that those who follow will struggle to emulate,” Dr. Shalaby said. A cardiologist, Dr Shalaby is one of two people who have taken over Dr. Lal’s former role as Head of Hawkesbury Clinical School. Dr. Shalaby said his dear friend will be remembered fondly. “As an esteemed clinical mentor for both junior doctors and medical students, Prof. Lal was not just a professional of
Besides his work at the hospital, Dr Kamath undertook private practice – he never charged the young families that came to see him. Meanwhile, the hospital department he established continues to flourish, now subdivided into five specialty branches. “A portrait of me hangs in the library, I’m told – it’s where I spent a lot of time.” As an 87-year-old now, Dr Kamath has spent the last twenty years in retirement, exercising, singing, reading, and keeping uptodate on technical advancements in his field. How would he advise young doctors considering a career in paediatric gastroenterology? “It’s an expanding field. Get used to the term Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). I never saw a single case during my working years, but it now affects one in four Australian adults and many children. It is caused by wrong diet habits and poor lifestyle choices. It can be prevented completely if caught early. Similarly, be prepared for inflammatory bowel disease, of which Australia has one of the highest rates in the world.” He added as an afterthought, “Don’t go by hip pocket alone. Part of the problem with young doctors today is they are motivated by lifestyle. So they won’t go to country areas, for example. You must have not only desire, but also passion.” How does Dr Kamath reflect on his own career today? “It’s been a journey of seeking knowledge; putting it to practice; ensuring my patients were prevented from disease and death at low cost, time and money, and influencing a new generation of doctors.” Rajni Anand Luthra
immense stature, but a beloved teacher and mentor who inspired generations. His distinguished service to the hospital, community and university stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to healing and education.” Despite his remarkable career and service to the community, Sharat said he is most proud of his father for his generosity. “Almost everyone we talked to after he passed away said he helped them so much in one way or another,” Sharat said. “We are most proud of how he was always willing to help everybody around him, and that extended to his teaching, colleagues and students.” He said his father will also be remembered for his love of life. “He was enthusiastic in everything he did. He loved to travel, see family, and spend time with his children, grandchildren and young kids. He was a big talker, very social and gregarious.” Dr Sachint Lal leaves behind his wife Neru, three children and beloved grandchildren. “Prof. Lal’s legacy and spirit will forever live on in the countless lives he touched,” Dr Shalaby said. “He will be deeply missed, and this legacy of compassion and knowledge will continue to inspire us all.” Nadine Silva
www.indianlink.com.au
OUR S “THE ENVIRONMENT IS CRITICAL TO GENDER EQUALITY” PROF. KUNTALA LAHIRI-DUTT, AO For distinguished service to natural resource management research and innovation, to gender equality, and to tertiary education
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sk Kuntala Lahiri-Dutt to describe her work, and she’ll say, “I work with extremely poor people, and the highly vulnerable environments in which they live.” A Professor in the Resource, Environment and Development Program at ANU’s Crawford School of Public Policy, Dr. Lahiri-Dutt researchespeople's lives and livelihoods in natural resource sectors such as mining, water and farming. “Each of these sectors is seeing tremendous change, with flow-through effects not only on environmental sustainability as you might expect, but also on women’s empowerment and gender equality,” Prof. Lahiri-Dutt told Indian Link. Gender is a central theme in her work on natural resource management. “On the land, for example,” she explained, “the agrarian crisis is causing a ‘feminisation’ of agriculture. The men are moving out of rural areas in search of work that will better meet their family’s needs in a world that’s exponentially complex. The women are left behind to tend the land. Yet they’re not doing so willingly. Women do not like to farm; they do not own the land they farm. The land belongs to the husband, or father-in-law. They cannot use the land as collateral to secure a bank loan (to try and improve their lives). The produce that comes out of their labour, is also ultimately sold by their men! Land ownership is at the heart of the problem (in women’s development). Only about 12% of the world's land is owned by women.” Similarly in mining, she alludes to the ‘people’ dimension of the industry in her work with informal/artisanal extractive practices. These are mining activities followed by unskilled individuals who find themselves sitting on resource-rich lands, but resource-poor themselves. They start digging, in the hope of finding coal, or gold. “It is seen as illegal, but they have no other opportunity,” Prof. Lahiri-Dutt lamented. There’s a very large number of women in artisanal mining, her research has revealed. “Depending on the mineral, women's proportion can be 50 to 60%. In gold and other more expensive
“The realisation that women are the primary resource managers in families and small communities, urged me towards feminist methodologies in my research.” minerals, women constitute a much lower proportion, 10-15%. But with stone and stone breaking - in major industries like black stone, quartz, marble, coal - you’ll find women in very large numbers.” Her work with these informal miners has put the spotlight on the moral economy of the mining industry. Yet she’s confident that women will be able to create change. “It’s already happening. Women are finding ways of accumulating small amounts of capital through self-help groups or cooperatives to apply for loans to buy technology for example. They are working under so much duress that each innovation will improve their lives.” Luckily, there are sensitive men around us, Prof. Lahiri-Dutt feels. “There is a great realisation that we must work with men, as well as walk with them. Being a feminist means believing in everybody's equal rights, not being antagonistic to men.” Regarding water, Prof. Lahiri-Dutt’s extensive work on chars or river islands turned into a book, Dancing with the River. “I argue that rivers are not just physical entities but are ‘imagined’, and that tiny chars can blur the well-established
conceptual boundaries between land and water to create spaces that are ungovernable,” she wrote. She has also been examining how women in urban households are at the forefront of managing water resource. Look at families around you, to gain evidence of this! “The realisation that women are the primary resource managers in families and small communities, urged me towards feminist methodologies in my research,” Prof. Lahiri-Dutt revealed. The seeds for this had begun to germinate in her mind in the 1990s, when the Save the Narmada (River) Movement began in India against the massive Narmada Dam Project that was decades in the making. “I saw the impact it all had, particularly on women, who have typically borne the brunt of transformation in societies. It became obvious to me that environment is critical to gender equality. What is a sustainable world? A sustainable world is also one where men and women are equal.” Perhaps bringing this notion to the forefront has been one of her most
significant contributions. Of course, her work has had global impact - it sees her present her advocacy at several national and international agencies such as the Australian Council for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), and Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade (DFAT), and United Nations Environment Program, the United Nations Development Program, World Bank, UN-WOMEN, International Resource Panel, and Gender & Water Alliance. Prof. Lahiri-Dutt is also passionate now about sharing more widely the deep insights she has gained about gender and environment. To this end, she has designed two university courses - Gender, Resources and the Environment, and Gender and Development. “I feel very privileged that my work is recognised in this manner, and with the AO honour,” Prof. Lahiri-Dutt remarked.“There are many, many women who are equally if not more talented than me, so many of them women of colour. That I have been singled out for this honour is my good fortune. I would like to add that if on the basis of this award, I can do something good for other people, then I will try it; that will be my goal.” She’s also deeply indebted to her university and the opportunities it has provided. “ANU has given me the wings that allowed me to fly, and so I want to say thank you. What I am today, much of it is a contribution of my institution.” Rajni Anand Luthra FEBRUARY 2024 13
SPORT
Rishi Sardana is Australian Chess Champion 2024 IM Rishi Sardana of Canberra honed his chess skills at school and university in India
BY VIVEK ASRI
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M Rishi Sardana of Canberra has clinched the prestigious title of Australian Chess Champion. The 27-year-old finished with a 9.5 score after 11 rounds at the Australian Chess Championships, taking home the title and a $3000 cash prize. His 11 games at the event held in Adelaide that saw eight wins and three draws included a resounding victory over 13-time Queensland champion IM Stephen Solomon. The Australian title now sees him within 30 points of the required 2500 FIDE rating to become Grandmaster. “Yes, as a chess player, my goal is to become a Grandmaster; it's the highest title that any chess player can get. But my general goal is to become the best version of myself. Professionally, socially, personally, in every aspect,” Sardana told Indian Link with characteristic humility. Sardana's journey from his roots in India to becoming a formidable force in Australian chess reflects not only his personal dedication but also the rich cultural influences that have shaped his approach to the game. “I was born in Canberra, but my family moved to India when I was about 7-8 years old. I spent most of my childhood and my teenage years there,” Sardana recounted, highlighting the formative years he spent immersed in the vibrant chess culture of his ancestral homeland. In India, where chess enjoys widespread popularity and is often a mandatory part of school curricula, Sardana's introduction to the game came at a pivotal moment. “India has a huge culture of chess,” Sardana reflected.“I probably would not have been playing chess if it were not for my time in India.” Attending a private school in India, and then Delhi University’s elite Sri Ram College of Commerce, Sardana found himself drawn into the world of chess through early weekly lessons and exposure to the intense competitive environment that characterised local tournaments. “Also, playing in India, there were many people to look up to and learn from through observation.” Reflecting on the challenges and rewards of competing in India's fiercely competitive chess scene, Sardana emphasises the invaluable lessons he learned from facing opponents of all ages and skill levels. “The main thing about playing in India and what grew me into the player I am today, is that it’s just insanely difficult playing there. You never know who you’ll be playing against. You could be sitting opposite an 8-year-old who is probably playing his first tournament, and as soon as you start playing, you realise he is a beast, a monster!"
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“It’s insanely difficult playing in India. You never know who you’ll be playing against. You could be sitting opposite an 8-yearold who is probably playing his first tournament, and as soon as you start, you realise he is a beast, a monster!" Returning to Australia after years spent honing his skills in India, Sardana encountered a different chess landscape, characterised by its relative infancy compared to the thriving chess community of his homeland. “There are not that many grandmasters or international players here,” Sardana observed. “When I go to a tournament, I am usually one of the higher seeds.” Despite the differences, Sardana adapted his approach, embracing the need to take more risks and step out of his comfort zone
to excel in the Australian chess circuit. “As a top player, I have to win lots and lots of games. I am under pressure to win, so I take more risks,” he said. Balancing his passion for chess with a corporate career as a data consultant at KPMG Canberra, Sardana faces the challenge of juggling professional responsibilities with his pursuit of chess excellence. “I have to take time off from work to go play at these tournaments. It's not super easy,
but when you face problems, it means you have problem-solving opportunities!” Looking ahead, Sardana remains focused on his ultimate goal of becoming a Grandmaster, a title that represents the pinnacle of achievement in the chess world. As Sardana's triumph in the Australian Chess Championship propels him closer to his aspirations, his journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, cultural heritage, and the universal language of chess.
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COMMUNITY
Dr. S. Jaishankar’s personal tribute to ANZAC hero Visits Perth avenue named after Indian-origin soldier Nain Singh Sailani
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Photos: X
ndia’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar joined the Indian community of Perth as he visited Sailani Avenue, a street named after Simla-born soldier Private Nain Singh Sailani. Sailani was one of 12 known Indian ANZACs (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) who served with the Australian Imperial Army during World War I. Enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force in 1916, he was killed in Belgium while on active duty in June 1917. “Visited Sailani Avenue in Perth. Named after Nain Singh Sailani, an Indian-origin soldier honoured in Australia,” Jaishankar, who was on a two-day visit to Australia to attend the 7th Indian Ocean Conference, wrote on X.“Glad to meet some of our veterans and Indian community leaders there.” The Minister earlier joined his counterpart Penny Wong to discuss India-Australia ties, Indian Ocean architecture, and the shared interests of both countries in the Indo-Pacific. Sailani Avenue was earlier known as Nelson Avenue and was renamed in honour of the Sikh war hero in 2023, following a personal request from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “Sailani Avenue will act as a tangible reminder of the role Anzacs from the
Indian community played in shaping our state’s history and paving the way for future generations,” Basil Zempilas, Lord Mayor of Perth said. Born in Shimla in 1873, Sailani migrated to Australia in 1895 as a 22-year-old and initially lived in the town of Geraldton, about 400 kilometres north of Perth, where he found work as a labourer. He was 43 when he volunteered for the Australian Imperial Force in 1916 and was allotted to the 44th Battalion as the First World War broke out. As a soldier, he served with his unit in France and was one of two Indian-Australian soldiers, the other being soldier Sarn Singh, killed in action on June 1, 1917. Sailani was buried at the Strand Military Cemetery in Belgium alongside other Australian soldiers, and a plaque was installed in Kings Park, Perth, in 2017 to honour his sacrifice. He received the British War Medal, Victory Medal, and the 1914/15 Star in recognition of his service. Dr S. Jaishankar also attended a community reception at the Indian Community Centre in Perth, and met with WA Parliamentarians of Indian origin, Zaneta Mascarenhas, Varun Ghosh and Dr Jagadish Krishnan. IANS
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FEBRUARY 2024 15
SCHOOL
When Sally met Rashmi
Sally Webb gets a traditional welcome by Delhi students
Victorian school principals visit India
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welve school principals from across the state of Victoria visited India late last year, through the 2023 Women in School Leadership (WISL) professional learning program. Paired with twelve principals from schools across the Delhi/NCR region in India, they participated in a two-week immersive program. Spanning from August 2023 to May 2024, the program engages school leaders with a focus on ‘Leading schools for social change’. Reflecting on the WISL India program, Sally Webb, Principal of Cranbourne Carlisle Primary School, shared, “The Delhi experience helped me better understand Indian culture, which was my hope, given the high percentage of Indian families enrolled in our school. The highlight of the trip was time in schools.” Swarnima Luthra, Principal of ASN Senior Secondary School, Mayur Vihar Delhi spoke about the collaborative efforts during the immersion program, stating, “During the school immersion program, we have developed a strong connection and exchanged ideas for holistic development of the learners. We created a plan wherein
Social, Emotional, Physical, Intellectual wellbeing of learners could be taken care systematically, and at the same time nurturing requisite attitude, values, and life skills in the learners.” Writing about the experience later, Tania Sorbello, Principal of Fitzroy North Primary School observed, “Spending time with vocational educational leaders through the 2023 Women in School Leadership Program has left me inspired and energised. What I thought was going to be a Venn diagram exploration of the similarities and differences between the Australian and Indian education systems, soon revealed itself to be an overlapping circle, as we explored the deep commonalities we share as we strive to improve the academic and personal and social outcomes for the children entrusted in our care. Looking forward to the next steps of undertaking a collaborative action research project with my Indian partner principal, Asha Prabhakar. My deepest gratitude for the honour of representing the Victorian Department of Education and the Asia Education Foundation.” The Indian principals will visit Australia for a reciprocal immersion in May 2024.
School principals in the 2023-24 WISL cohort: Victoria and Delhi-NCR
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Twelve Victorian school principals took part in an immersive experience in Indian schools last year
Tania Sorbello interacts with students at her Delhi school
In the interim, all participants will continue collaborating, engaging in online workshops, masterclasses and participating in coaching sessions, laying a strong foundation for future collaboration and cultural exchange. The WISL program, aligned with Victoria’s India Strategy: Our Shared Future, is part of a trio of school education initiatives enhancing engagement between Victorian and Indian schools by the Victorian Department of Education. The unique initiative has fostered connections between exceptional women principals in Victoria and in Delhi/NCR. Meanwhile the Victorian Principals marked the Hindu Festival of Lights Diwali at their respective schools last year.
The celebrations were diverse, featuring special assemblies, captivating performances by Indian-background students and staff, rangoli and candlelight holder making, and a delectable spread of Indian cuisine. This festive extravaganza provided an opportunity for the Victorian schools to embrace and appreciate the cultural diversity of the second fastestgrowing community in the state. The Women in School Leadership (WISL) Program, an initiative by the Victorian Department of Education, is developed and delivered by Asia Education Foundation (AEF) in partnership with the Australia India Institute and Melbourne Graduate School of Education at The University of Melbourne in Australia, and the National Progressive Schools’ Conference (NPSC) and O.P. Jindal Global University in India. First run in 2019/20, the WISL program aims to support Melbourne’s growing Indian community. Learn more about the WISL program on the Asia Education Foundation website here: https://www.asiaeducation.edu. au/professional-learning/wisl. Follow #WISLVicIndia on social media for program updates.
A visit to Lodhi Gardens, New Delhi
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FEBRUARY 2024 17
MIGRATION
Fines, penalties to triple for exploiting temporary visa holders
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n a move to safeguard the rights of vulnerable workers and combat exploitation in the labour market, the Australian Government has successfully passed the Migration Amendment (Strengthening Employer Compliance) Bill 2023 with unanimous support in Parliament. The legislation marks a significant step forward in holding employers accountable for mistreatment and exploitation of workers, particularly those on temporary visas. Effective from July 1, the new law imposes harsh penalties, including prison time and tripled fines, on employers found guilty of exploiting workers based on their visa status. Furthermore, employers who engage in such practices will be prohibited from hiring any worker on a temporary visa, reinforcing the government's commitment to eradicating exploitation in the workplace. And employers who mistreat workers will be banned from hiring any worker on a temporary visa. Andrew Giles, Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs, speaking on behalf of the government, emphasised the inclusive nature of the legislation, stating, "Just like our plan to give every Australian taxpayer a tax cut, the Government’s legislation will benefit all workers across the economy – visa holders and Australians alike." This sentiment underscores the government's dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of all workers, regardless of their visa status. The passage of the bill signifies a crucial
victory for labour rights advocates. Minister Giles praised the courage of those who have come forward to share their experiences of exploitation, emphasising that their voices were instrumental in driving forward this much-needed reform. Local businesses that uphold fair labour practices will also benefit from the reform, as it levels the playing field by cracking down on unscrupulous competitors who undercut prices by underpaying workers. Minister Giles reiterated the government's stance, stating, "Under our new laws, it doesn’t matter if that company is a multinational giant or a hundred years old – if exploitation is happening, they’ll get a knock at the door."
The Labor government had said earlier that the crisis of exploitation in Australia was affecting both Australian workers and those on temporary visas. In a speech delivered at Solidarity Hall, Victorian Trades Hall last year, Mr. Giles highlighted the prevalence of wage theft, exploitation, and fear-induced silence among workers, exacerbated by loopholes in the visa system and lax enforcement. A recent report by Migrant Workers Centre shed light on the concerning realities faced by temporary visa holders. Among the most alarming revelations is that a substantial majority, 65%, have experienced wage theft during their employment.
Moreover, one in four of these individuals reported additional forms of labour exploitation, painting a grim picture of the challenges faced by this demographic. Particularly worrying is the correlation between temporary visa status and workplace exploitation, with 91% of those who endured wage theft arriving on visas lacking a pathway to permanent residency. The impact of these conditions on the mental health of temporary visa holders is evident, with individuals on employersponsored visas displaying notably high levels of stress. This suggests a deep-rooted issue within the visa system, where the lack of stability and uncertainty about future residency exacerbate the already stressful experience of work. Workers unions have welcomed the legislative changes. ACTU President Michele O’Neil said, “The exploitation of workers in Australia on temporary visas hurts all workers. It exposes the impact of a migration system that had shifted away from permanent migration towards a guest worker approach where employers control workers’ passports and paycheques. These changes are important as we cannot have a country where workers fear reporting workplace exploitation because they fear losing their ability to stay in the country. This new law, and the actions outlined in the Government’s Migration Strategy released at the end of last year, are critical to ensuring all workers in Australia are treated fairly.” Vivek Asri
"Golden Visa" program axed over economic and corruption concerns
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ustralia, a prominent immigration destination for India's millionaires, has terminated its "golden visa"
program. This visa program known as Significant Investor Visa (SIV) was aimed at attracting wealthy foreign investors to the country. The decision comes after the government's review revealed that the program, designed to stimulate economic growth, was failing to deliver the expected benefits and had become a haven for corruption. The Significant Investor Visa (SIV) program, launched in 2012, allowed overseas investors to secure residency in Australia by investing more than A$5 million in the country. However, the government found that the scheme was not achieving its primary objectives and was instead providing an opportunity for "corrupt officials" to park illicit funds. According to government data, a staggering 85% of successful applicants under the program were from China. Critics had long argued that the golden visa system had become a conduit for individuals
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Minister for Home Affairs Clare O'Neil
seeking to conceal ill-gotten gains. Australia's Minister for Home Affairs Clare O'Neil, emphasised the failure of the golden visa program, stating, "It has been obvious for years that this visa is not delivering what our country and economy needs." The government plans to replace the golden visa program with a focus on more skilled-worker visas, aiming to attract migrants capable of making significant contributions to Australia's development and innovation. The move has been praised by Clancy Moore, CEO of Transparency International Australia, who stated, "For far too long corrupt officials and kleptocrats have used
golden visas as a vehicle to park their illicit funds in Australia and arguably hide their proceeds of crime.” “Good news as Australia's 'golden visa' scheme is axed. Concerns the scheme has inherent vulnerabilities for moneylaundering were raised for over a decade,” Transparency International Australia tweeted shortly after. The golden visa program had faced scrutiny for its alleged loopholes and vulnerabilities. Bill Browder, known for his role in the creation of the Magnitsky Act, criticised the scheme, highlighting concerns about potential money laundering and other illicit activities. In 2016, a government inquiry raised similar concerns, suggesting that the program had the "potential for money laundering and other nefarious activities." More recently, in 2022, The Australian newspaper reported that members of Cambodia's Hun Sen regime had exploited the system. The government inquiry also found that the visas were attracting individuals with "less business acumen" than desired, while offering tax concessions that were ultimately costing the public.
While some asset managers argued that the follow-on investment from SIVs exceeded the initial A$5 million investment, the government remained unconvinced, leading to the decision to terminate the program. Australia now joins the UK, which abolished a similar program in 2022 over concerns about the influx of illicit Russian money. The termination of golden visa schemes has also been witnessed in Malta, where an investigation revealed speedy citizenship grants to wealthy nonEuropean Union nationals, raising alarms about money laundering, tax evasion, and corruption. The European Union had expressed concerns over the risks associated with such programs. According to London-based firm Henley & Partners, over the past two decades, approximately 82,000 high-net-worth individuals have chosen Australia as their new home. In recent years, Indians, in particular, have shown a growing inclination towards Australia compared to the USA and the UK due to the simplified visa process. Vivek Asri
www.indianlink.com.au
Australia faces sharp decline in net migration … amid 20% decrease in student visa grants
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ustralia is poised for a significant reduction in net migration following the rejection of thousands of overseas student visa applications, marking a 20% decrease in student visa grants - the most substantial decline in two decades. This adjustment in the education program stands as the primary driver behind the anticipated decrease in the total migrant intake to 375,000 for the current financial year, with projections suggesting a further decline to 250,000 in the subsequent year. Australia boasts a substantial international student population, with an increasing number opting to extend their stay by pursuing subsequent courses. However, recent data reveals record numbers of overseas student visa rejections, driven by a decline in the visa grant rate to 80%, the lowest since records began in 2005. December figures indicate a 20% decrease compared to the previous year, signaling a potential downturn in arrivals for the upcoming academic year. The number of overseas students in Australia exceeds 650,000, and an increasing proportion of them are extending their stays by enrolling in additional courses. Specifically, out of this total, 150,000 students are currently on their second student visa, indicating a growing trend of students choosing to further their education in the country. In December, fewer student visas were granted compared to November, indicating a potential decline in arrivals for the upcoming academic year. This drop, which is 20% lower than last year's figures, aligns with the goal of the Department of Home Affairs, of reducing international student visa grants from 370,000 to 290,000 this year. They expect this number to slightly decrease further. The migration strategy implemented by the government last year has ushered in stricter English-language tests for students, requiring them to demonstrate genuine
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intent and imposing challenges for those unable to secure employment addressing skill shortages - a prerequisite for visa retention. The government remains open to additional measures, including potential caps on student numbers or heightened visa application fees. However, the impact of these visa cuts varies across educational institutions. While leading universities remain relatively unaffected, private colleges with lower visa approval ratings bear the brunt of the adjustments. Minister for Home Affairs Clare O’Neil issued Ministerial Direction 107, instructing officials to prioritise visa applications from universities with a proven track record, while placing lower priority on those from institutions with historical compliance issues. The classification system, ranging from "tier one" for universities with exemplary records to "tier three" for institutions with recurrent problems, reflects this prioritisation strategy. Notably, the Group of Eight universities predominantly occupies the top tier, while private vocational education colleges feature predominantly in the lowest tier. These developments stem from the government's commitment to curbing migration levels, particularly in response
to concerns over integrity issues within the higher education sector. Additionally, the closure of the Pandemic Event Visa program, which attracted over 100,000 individuals with no fees or skills tests, contributes to the overall decline in migration intake. Immigration policy expert Dr Abul Rizvi says the stock is also affected by those skilled temporary entrants who secure permanent residence, mainly visa employer-sponsored visas, as well as the strength of the labour market. “The number of skilled temporary entrants in Australia plunged in 2014-15 when the unemployment rate increased to six per cent,” wrote Dr Rizvi in a recent article. In the face of political pressure and a surge in migration numbers in recent years, the government remains resolute in its objective to return migration levels to pre-pandemic norms. Australia’s Shadow Immigration Minister Dan Tehan had expressed concern over the overwhelming number of international students here in Australia. He told Sky News Australia, “Record numbers of international students are still coming. This is way too much. We are in a housing crisis, and rents have skyrocketed. People can’t even get to
see doctors. Cities are getting crowded.” This shift in migration dynamics underscores the evolving landscape of Australia's visa policies and its broader implications for international education and workforce dynamics. Comparing the six months to December 2023 with the same period in 2022, the Department of Home Affairs data revealed intriguing trends among major nationalities applying for skilled temporary visas. Onshore grants saw a decline in numbers across several key nationalities, with India leading the chart at 1,996 grants compared to 4,119 previously. Conversely, offshore grants witnessed a similar pattern, with India again at the forefront but with a substantial decrease from 12,556 to 6,392 grants. Notable fluctuations were also observed in the visa grants for China, the Philippines, and the UK, signifying potential shifts in migration patterns and preferences among skilled workers. The report also shed light on significant shifts in primary skilled temporary visa grants concerning various industry sectors. A decline in sectors such as information, media, and telecommunications was juxtaposed with increases in health and social assistance, agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. Surprisingly, despite traditionally low salaries, there was a notable increase in visa grants for the agriculture sector, prompting concerns about potential exploitation of workers. Moreover, the rise in sectors like mining and manufacturing hints at evolving economic landscapes and emerging opportunities. Despite a robust labour market, skilled temporary entrants contributed relatively little to the record net migration in 2022-23. Analysts attribute this phenomenon to state governments’ increased utilisation of statenominated visas and the implementation of more generous temporary graduate provisions. Vivek Asri
Int‘l student numbers “too high": Visa policies now tightening
n a dramatic shift, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom are implementing stringent visa policies, creating a challenging landscape for Indian students aspiring to study abroad. Australia's Shadow Immigration Minister Dan Tehan expressed concern over the overwhelming number of international students here in Australia. He told Sky News Australia, “Record numbers of international students are still coming. This is way too much. We are in a housing crisis, and rents have skyrocketed. People can't even get to see doctors. Cities are getting crowded.” Australia, a favoured destination for Indian students, has now announced a more selective approach to issuing student visas. This includes reducing the validity of poststudy work visas from three to two years and placing restrictions on changing courses during studies.
Dr. Abul Rizvi, an expert on migration in Australia, explained the rationale behind the policy shift, saying, "The migration policy during the COVID-era was based on retaining existing students in the country after borders opened, and simultaneously attracting a significant number of new students from abroad." As Australia grapples with these changes, similar policy shifts are unfolding in the UK and Canada, further impacting Indian students’ dreams of pursuing education abroad. In the UK, measures implemented in 2022 have led to a decrease in the total number of immigrants. The stringent restrictions extend to 2023, with limitations on bringing families for post-graduation, posing additional challenges for Indian students
planning to study in the country. Canada, which experienced a surge in international students over the last decade, is also tightening controls. The Immigration Ministry there has declared a reduction in the number of international student visas for the year, and post-graduation work permits for various programs are being curtailed. These changes in the Student Visa policies
are particularly impactful for Indian students, constituting the largest group of international students in these nations. In 2022, 41% of student visas issued in Canada were for Indian students, while approximately 40% of Australia's total international student population in 2023 consisted of Indian students. The evolving restrictions on visas, work permits, and family reunification collectively unravel the dreams of Indian students aspiring to pursue education and build a future in these countries. As the three major study destinations undergo policy transformations, Indian students find themselves facing challenges that may reshape their educational and professional journeys abroad. Vivek Asri FEBRUARY 2024 19
CONVERSATION
(Truth be told) Known for her honest and forthright approach to her work and life, Neena Gupta drops some truth bombs in this chat with Indian Link. The award-winning actor, director, producer and writer is characteristically unguarded in her sincerity as she looks back at the highpoints and some low points in her career, and spills the details about upcoming projects. BY TORSHA SEN
T
orsha Sen (TS): Neena Gupta, thank you for joining us at Indian Link. What brings you to Sydney? Neena Gupta (NG): I’m here to
do a film called Hindi Vindi, in which I play a grandmother to this very fine actor called Mihir Ahuja, who you must have seen in The Archies (2023). The very famous singer Guy Sebastian is also playing a role. He has also composed the music of the film. It’s a musicbased film –my character is a musician who used to teach music in India before moving to Australia. This film is a very interesting combination of music and emotion. It’s an unusual story - I liked the script very much. We've been doing good work and we've been having fun. Guy was very good, and Mihir is a very hardworking young actor.
TS: In your media interactions you are constantly asked about your personal life, whereas you have a huge body of work that rarely anyone talks about. Do you feel your career doesn't get the spotlight it deserves? NG: It didn't get the spotlight it deserves. But now I am getting the spotlight which I deserve. But you see, this profession is such, everybody is interested in your personal life. Aapka bed, bedroom mein kaisa hai. People think we probably sleep on golden beds! So, I have to accept that I am an actor, I am known, so people are interested in my personal life. What I didn't know (earlier), where I made a mistake, was that you have to be very careful about your personal life. I used to think the journalists who came to interview me were my friends. (I know now that) they're not your friends - they're just doing their jobs, as you are doing yours. Look at Mr. Bachchan, for example, and others, how carefully they talk. (I did not adopt that approach) and that is why I was misinterpreted, and ugly things were written about me. So, it was my fault. I mean, if the other person thinks that they can (extract) masala from me, that is their job. So, you must be very guarded when you are in the public eye. Very careful with what you say. Main do sentence bolti hoon, uss doh sentence mein se doh words koi lekar ke uchhal sakta hai. They don't know the previous sentence or the following sentence. Baaki to dekha nahi na kisi ne. So you have to be very careful.
TS: Would you like to take some credit for bringing about a shift in Indian films, where senior female actors are getting 20 FEBRUARY 2024
unconventional roles as leads, and are not just the roti-dhoti maa? We certainly see more actors taking that risk now. NG: Yes of course. I got a message recently
because then the smaller films will be made. Because the money will be there. I have already thought of a subject (for my own project), in fact, only two days ago.
TS: Which five projects, from your entire body of work, would you choose to show people today? NG: Main kuch bhool na jaoon. Jitna yaad
from an old friend, my age group, who I was not in touch with her for some time. She wrote to me saying Aapne darwaze khol diye humare liye (you have opened doors for us). Yes, so I will take the credit.
TS: Would that be anything related to Australia at all? NG: No, sorry!
hai, I will say Khandan, Saans, Kabir, Suraj Ka Satvan Ghoda, Badhaai Ho (2023) and Mast Mein Rehne Ka (2023). Can I add another one? The Last Color (2019).
TS: You've been in the industry for four decades. What is good about it? And what according to you, is bad in the industry that should change? NG: It has changed a lot. Change toh dekho aata rahte hain. I’ve been through the time when Shayam Benegal was making beautiful films - Suraj Ka Satvan Ghoda (1992) with him was such a nice film. Then I’ve seen the days when we made beautiful television Buniyaad (1986), Kabir, and Saans (1998). Abhi achanak badi filmein aa gayi toh wo gaya. Ek cheez hit hogayi toh everybody wants to make the same. Abhi sab Animal (2023) banayenge. Ya Pathaan (2023) banayenge. It is a circle, it keeps changing. It's part of the game.
TS: You spoke about Saans, which was one of the most iconic TV series of the ‘90s. I particularly remember because it was ahead of its time back then. Would you ever go back to writing and directing? NG: In fact, just a few days ago, I was thinking I want to go back to TV. Because you see, itna content ban raha hai, koi dekhta hi nahi hai. I do so much hard work, which hardly anybody sees! I was part of a very nice anthology recently, which nobody saw. I feel very bad that my labour is going waste.
TS: The film for which you won a National Award, the documentary Bazaar Sitaram (1993) - not many people have seen that. NG: Woh chhodho, documentary. The film for which I got the Best Supporting Actor National Award, Woh Chokri (1994), woh kisi ne dekhi hi nahi! So I was thinking of a return to TV. The only thing is I cannot do daily soaps, they take a toll on your health. And yet, getting something up on Amazon, Netflix, Sony, or Zee TV is a very tough thing. It's not easy because everybody's in the queue. Big film producers also are producing for them.
TS: Right. And everyone's gotten the idea that, you know, there’s business there, and at least you get a release. NG: Yes. More than anything there is safety. So they’ll take a chance with very big stars, whose films are now becoming successful, and that’s a very good thing for the industry
TS: That’s unfortunate! Now, Neenaji, you are from NSD, you are a qualified actor, and you’ve had your share of struggles. In fact, I'm sure you must be aware of the kind of struggle even now that people from NSD or FDII are facing. And yet, we see social media influencers, who have no experience in acting, being offered roles, including lead roles. What is your view of this, and how should those who are struggling navigate through this? NG: Everybody has their own struggle in life. A housewife has her own struggle, which is the biggest struggle (in my opinion). You have to move on. I am right now facing a struggle in another sense - my projects are not being seen. That is my struggle right now, whereas my struggle was different when I started. For many years (in the interim), it was different again. The only thing that I have learned is that whatever God has given you, say thanks. And whatever you have not got, don't criticise. Don't say ke usko award mil gaya toh wo toh isliya mila kyuki woh kisko janta hai. Jab mujhe milega then I will say ‘awards are very good’. Mujhe nahi milta toh then I will say ‘award he bakwas hai.’ Aisa nahi hai. I'm just saying, don't be bitter about what you haven't got and move on. If you keep moving on, you will get somewhere. Mujhe 60 saal ki umur me mila. Mila toh sahi, hain na?
TS: So, there's always light at the end of the tunnel. NG: Woh toh bade heavy duty baatein hai.
TS: A fabulous list! Tell us, if a biopic were to be made on you, who would play the young Neena Gupta, and what would it be called? NG: Title toh hai – “Sach Khaoon Toh”! Who would play me? Mein khud!
TS: Ha ha! But if you had to pick from the leading actresses today? NG: Okay let’s see – who do we have, Alia, Deepika, Priyanka, Kiara, bhool jati hoon main, aur kaun hai?
TS: Kriti, Ananya …. NG: Maybe I'd like Masaba to do my role, she's a very good actor.
TS: That's a good choice. Biased, but good! NG: Dekho, biased hona bada zaroori hai. Aap apne bachchon ke liye biased hain, na? Sab apne bachchon ke liye biased hote hai. Abhi yeh sab badi-badi baatein karte hai… Are bhaiya, main actor hoon aur mera bachcha actor banna chahta hai, toh main usse promote karoongi naa. Koi doctor apne doctor bachche ko promote karta hai na. Toh yeh pata nahi kaisi badi badi bate karte hai. Kuch (issue) nahi hai, yeh hota hai.
TS: Coming back to Sydney for a bit, have you had a chance to look around? NG: I’ve been to Sydney and Melbourne a few times, and have seen the sights a few times now. So, this time round, I've been shopping instead.
Me toh chote shabdo me bol rahi hoon ki aage toh badhna padega, nahi toh kya karoge? Mar jaoge?
TS: That’s even more interesting! Thank you so much, Neenaji, for giving us your time. NG: Thank you. I would like to say, come
TS: And also, there are more mediums these days than you guys had back in the time. NG: When I came to Bombay, it was only
and see our film Hindi Vindi when it releases. It has a lot of Australia in it and it's in English mostly. Plus, it has some very good music for you to enjoy.
films. Only films! We could not even get a chance to meet the producer. Subhash Ghai ji se milne ke liye mujh ko kitne saal lag gaye the. Aur photos khicha ke le gayethi main, bade paise kharchke, toh bolte hain ‘main photo-woto nahi dekhta’. Photo correct kar dete hain na... Tum se mil liya theek hai.’ To ab toh bohot chances hein lekin competition bhi bohot hai.
TS: Looking forward! Use this QR code to watch the interview on your phone
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FEBRUARY 2024 21
CONVERSATION
Our very own Desi Jughead Jones If happiness had a face, it would perhaps resemble Bollywood actor Mihir Ahuja, whose radiant spirit illuminates every room he walks into. Fresh from The Archies, Mihir has thrown himself into Australian Indian production Hindi Vindi, starring Neena Gupta and Guy Sebastian. He dropped in to our offices for this chat – and despite a craving for desi khana, a passionate foodie much like his character Jughead, he remained cheerful and genuine throughout our conversation.
BY TORSHA SEN
Y
ou’re currently filming Hindi Vindi in Sydney, your first film as a lead.Tell us about it.
This film Hindi Vindi has me, Guy Sebastian, and Nina Guptaji from India. Immediately after first narration of the film, I was sold. I had to do this. It's a beautiful emotional journey of a grandmom and a grandson - language is at first a barrier, and then music bridges that gap between the two. It's an emotional ride - a beautiful, beautiful script. And of course, what better place to shoot than Sydney itself.
Is this your first time in Sydney? How’s the experience been so far? Lovely! Yes, first time in Australia. Today marks a month here. I'm shooting almost every day, so haven’t really explored. I’ve seen the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and Taronga Zoo, that's about it. I'm wrapping the film up on 13 Feb and flying back two days later, so I don't really have the time, because I'm starting something else in Mumbai. But I love this city, love the vibe here.
Working with Neena Gupta and Guy Sabastian, bigwigs from the industry, what did you learn from them? With Neena Gupta - I’ve said this before - if you’re in a scene with her or even if you're just watching, it's a learning experience. As an actor you just react to what she does, and your scene is good! I don't have to do much when she's in the scene. She's such a beautiful actor. She's had so much experience in her life and in films, so she's like a master class in acting. With Guy, this is his first acting gig, but he's doing a great job to be honest because, you know, he's a performer. He's always been a singer, and he's been doing stage performances all over the world. I met him on Zoom first. The first time we actually met was on set, first day of shoot.We didn't have any workshops, but he was just so good. He had that comedic timing right, like an experienced actor in every scene, in every take, so that was exciting to watch. To watch a non-actor do so well, my God, I was really inspired! 22 FEBRUARY 2024
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You play a Sydney-based character: did you have to learn the Aussie accent?
and dance, and in this film you play a musician. You seem to have a gehra taluk with rhythm.
Yes, I’ve been working with an accent coach; we started five months prior to filming!
You know when I was 9 or 10 I used to tell my mum, I want to go to music school before getting into acting, I want to learn all the instruments in the world, like every single instrument. Luckily I felt drawn to music since I was little. But I never learned music. I am selftaught. I learned beatboxing through YouTube; learned to play mouth organ and flute through YouTube, and a bit of guitar. But yeah, for every project, I’ve played some instrument or the other, which I’ve wanted to do as a child.
Mihir, do you think you have arrived, especially after The Archies? No, no, I will never feel I have arrived. That’s what keeps me going. Jitne bhi films kar loon, jitna bhi success mill jaaye, I would never want that feeling. Does ‘having arrived’ mean you have stopped (learning?). No, it'll always be a destination for me. I'll arrive only on my deathbed!
There’s a bunch of talented people from your hometown Jamshedpur in India’s film industry - R Madhvan, Imtiaz Ali, Shilpa Rao, and more recently Adarsh Gaurav, your contemporary. What’s with the people of Jamshedpur? It’s a ‘talent ka bhandaar’… (Laughs) Well, Jamshedpur is the Steel City of India!
Was cinema something you always wanted to do? Always, always. My parents tell me that when I was maybe three I would see baby ads like Johnson's Baby, Huggies, Pampers etc and main rone lag jatatha ki mujhe waha jaana hai (I would cry ‘cos I wanted to be like them) so I think I was born to do this. But no one had any leads in the family (to guide me), so I figured I would go do it on my own. I was a performer since primary school – dancer, beatboxer. I moved to Mumbai in 2017 after Year 10, for further studies, and to search for audition rooms or casting directors offices.
You’ve done a lot of ad films. That's how it all started: ads were my bread and butter in Mumbai. They paid well and I loved the vibe. My first ever project was an ad with Virat Kohli. That's how directors see you; doing ads really helps as an actor. TV shows were not my thing - I didn’t want to be stuck in one character for two to
Does this rhythm help you with acting as well? three years. I wanted to explore more. So, I did ads, web series and then films.
Mihir, you’ve said before that you look up to Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan. In your film The Archies you had SRK’s daughter Suhana Khan and Big B’s grandson Agastya Nanda alongside you. Did you feel anxious? No, I'm confident as an actor. I was well prepared for the shoot. When I reach the sets I'm prepared, so not anxious at all.
Are they (Suhana, Agastya, Khushi) your 3am friends now? Yes, they are. If I need help, they will be there. Everyone is very helpful.
The premiere for The Archies was the talk of the town because it was star studded. Do you remember a complement you received from the members of the fraternity? I have very vivid memories - of the standing ovation, of me crying,‘cos I was an emotional wreck! And then Rekhaji came over to my mum and me, and said, ‘Can I give you a hug?’ I had goosebumps! And then Amitji, I tapped his shoulder because I had met him just three days before when we filmed the Kaun Banega Crorepati episode. So, I was like ‘Hi Amitji’
and he was like,‘You were really good’. Oh my God! What more would you need as an actor that validation from Big B, SRK and Rekhaji!
You know, right, that Rekhaji hands the Best Actor award at most award ceremonies? Yes, she handed SRK his first Best Actor award. So yes, I’m waiting for my first award from her.
You also seem to be an OTT favourite: you’ve done some eight projects with various platforms. Do you have a strategy behind choosing projects, or do projects choose you?
Yes definitely, your body is your instrument in acting and jaise aap guitar ko tune karte ho waise hi you have to tune your body for acting. So riyaaz karna padhta hai, and music helps a lot. When you are in music you need that discipline. (And that comes in handy).
Who would you like to work with next? Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Vishal Bhardwaj.
Given an opportunity, with whom would you like to work first - Ranbir Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, Vicky Kaushal and Ayushmann Khurrana Ranbir Kapoor. Then everyone else.
What do you like most about Ranbir?
I've been lucky that projects are choosing me right now, but I think I am at that stage currently where I must be choosy, because I can't just do anything and everything. I'm a sucker for good scripts. If the script is good, even if my part in the film is one or two scenes, I would do the film. I want to tell good stories, even if there's some other actor telling that story, and I'm just a part of that film. That's my strategy - be a part of good stories regardless of the size of the role.
I love him as an actor. When I met him, he was like ‘Hey! You’re playing Jughead!’ and then he hugged me and then Alia came and she was like ‘Why are you hugging Mihir so hard, leave the poor kid alone.’ And Ranbir was like, ‘Jughead is my favourite character. Leave us alone’. So, we kept hugging!
For your last film you learned how to play drums, personally you are into beatboxing
Awesome. Here’s wishing your dreams come true.
Any female actor you want to work with next? Alia Bhatt. I love her performances. Also Shraddha Kapoor.
At work in Sydney with Neena Gupta
FEBRUARY 2024 23
BOOKS
On India-Pak diplomacy India’s last High Commissioner to Pakistan provides an inside look in his new book BY CHITRA SUDARSHAN
A
t The Hindu’s annual Chennai Literary Festival this year, I was particularly interested in Ajay Bisaria’s new book Anger Management: The Troubled Diplomatic Relationship Between India and Pakistan (Aleph Book Co., 2024). His interview with the editor of The Hindu Varghese K George was aptly titled “India’s last High Commissioner to Pakistan: An Inside Story”. Ajay Bisaria was India’s High Commissioner to Pakistan for three years until 2019, and had earlier been the Principal Secretary for five years to Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He writes therefore as an insider, describing some momentous events by dividing the history of the India-Pakistan relationship into several sections. His book combines both memoir and serious study, and traces the story of India-Pakistan diplomacy “from the point of view of its
24 JANUARY FEBRUARY2024 2024
practitioners, those who exited early and those who stayed long in the trenches”. Section 1 focuses on the first decade from 1947-1957, and the final Section 8 on his own tenure and what has followed it, from 2017 to 2023. The interview with Bisaria was peppered with interesting titbits which included anecdotes from when he was a rookie cadet, to Principal Secretary to PM Vajpayee, and later India’s High Commissioner to Pakistan. He recalled how as a fresh IFS cadet in the 1980s, Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi had publicly dismissed the Foreign Secretary with these words to the press: “You will meet the new Foreign Secretary soon”. He also recalled the time when Prime Minister Vajpayee chose Shiv Shankar Menon as the new High Commissioner to Pakistan. Menon purportedly asked the Prime Minister, “Why me”; to which Vajpayee replied, “Because you are innocent!” Vajpayee did really want a fresh start - and new thinking - as a way to move the relationship forward with Pakistan. More interestingly, Bisaria documents in his book how the relationship between the neighbours gradually deteriorated despite PMs
Vajpayee’s, Manmohan Singh’s and Modi’s outreaches to Pakistan, for terror attacks from that neighbour on India put paid to India’s several efforts at peace. In particular, Bisaria expanded at length on the Vajpayee-Musharraf summit in Agra in 2001, as well as the Kathmandu SAARC summit of 2002. One of Bisaria’s very penetrating observations was about the paradox of cultural intimacy between Pakistanis and North Indians. On his visit to Pakistan, Vajpayee read aloud some Urdu poetry he had written and duly impressed his hosts at a banquet. Manmohan Singh too, shared some Urdu couplets with the Pakistan President on the phone when he took his first phone call after being elected PM. On occasions, Pakistani bands played popular Hindi film music evoking India of the 1950s. However, Bisaria opined “it only helped so much”. At the end of the day, Pakistan was more comfortable with non-Hindi/Urdu speaking emissaries as they reaffirmed their idea that India and Pakistan were quite different - something they were more eager to demonstrate. To that end, they more readily appreciated South Indian Rikhi Jaipal’s remark in Pakistan that “we are foreigners”. (Jaipal served as First Secretary to Indian Mission to the United Nations). Talking of the Balakot strike in 2019, Bisaria opined it had marked a paradigm shift in India’s response to terror attacks from across the border, and had introduced a new element in India’s foreign policy. This now forced Pakistan to take into account retaliation from India when unleashing terror or subconventional warfare across the border. Bisaria was forced to leave Pakistan in 2019 when India’s revocation of Article 370 in August of that year had evoked extreme reaction from that country and they wanted the Indian High Commission shut down. The then Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan labelled India's PM 'fascist' and deployed social media assets for a new war against 'Hindutva'. For Indian foreign policy buffs, this book is a treasure-trove of trivia and insights.
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ADVERTORIAL
Matthew Hayden Cricketing legend on MAHINDRA’S AUSTRALIA BUSINESS BY SIRISH CHANDRAN
T
he retired Aussie cricketer is much more than just MahindraAustralia’s brand ambassador. We talk about his love forMahindras and his insights as an independent director. I’ve been with the business for nine years “The first five years, I was a brand ambassador. And then for the last four years, I’ve been a board director of the business in Australia. I’ve been able to really see the business for the business rather than just a certain product line within a range of global products. I understand the landscape, the dealership channel, the marketing division. As a board director, I see the whole business. And I’ve been inspired by the businesses. I’ve had four or five pick-ups “I’ve really put them through their paces in proper offroad conditions. And whatever you think of the design features that maybe don’t work, like wheel travel and ground clearance, they actually do work unbelievably well for the car. So that just proves how great their engineering is. “I love talking about the underdog. I think Mahindra in Australia is very much an underdog. We have 62 competitive original manufacturers in Australia in the auto sector, and there’s probably five or six majors in the agricultural business as well. A lot of brands come to Australia and try
and borrow brand legacy out of the bush whereas Mahindra has been the bush. Its pickup truck has been the truck of the country. Our dealership network has been very much based in regional Australia, where people have to make ends meet. It’s a tough place to live, regional Australia. Their financial decisions, they really matter. And Mahindra has found its way naturally into the ecosystem. When it’s been there, it’s really performed hard.” Read the full interview at www.mahindra. com.au/news/
Classes in Bharathanatyam & Mridangam near Cranboume
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Ph-0421 135 565 / 0432 278 241 www.natyakalamandir.com.au
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MUSIC Shankar Mahadevan, Ganesh Rajagopalan, Ustad Zakir Hussain, and V. Selvaganesh. (Source: Shakti50Tour)
A delightful harvest for Zakir Hussain and Indian music On the musical brilliance of the winning works from India at the Grammys this year BY MAHESH WHITERADHAKRISHNAN
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orld-renowned Indian tabla doyen Ustad Zakir Hussain has won an extraordinary three Grammy awards, with two separate music acts, featuring other leading Indian musicians. These Grammy victories in the global music, contemporary music and performance categories are among several highlighting the immensely rich contributions of South Asian music to the world. Many might be looking at this victory as another feather in India’s cap. Meanwhile, it’s worth taking a moment to focus on the musical brilliance in much of these works. The first of Hussain’s awards was for the album As we speak by Béla Fleck (banjo), Zakir Hussain (tabla), Edgar Meyer (double bass), and Rakesh Chaurasia (bansuri or North Indian bamboo flute), which won Best Contemporary Instrumental album. A masterpiece in instrumental music, different sections of each track are gorgeously woven
• Ustad Zakir Hussain has won three Grammy Awards across two different acts: one with Béla Fleck and other musicians and one with the band Shakti. • One of the awards was for the track Pashto which draws imaginatively on Afghani folk melodies and rhythms. • Other Indian and South Asian background artists featured quite prominently among the Grammy nominees and winners and there were two Australian winners. • Among the nominations was campaign song Abundance in Millets by Falu and Gaurav Shah featuring Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
together with a lovely balance between the different musical styles. The album’s scintillating eighth track Pashto won Best Global Music Performance. Drawing its melody from delightful folk sounds and rhythm of the north-west frontier and Afghanistan, Pashto is an incredible collaboration, with Fleck especially showing his understanding of South Asian musical sensibilities with tasteful forays into Balkan music and bluegrass and Hussain’s tabla setting and driving the pace. Hussain’s tabla is also central to the album This Moment by legendary world music band Shakti which won Best Global Music Album. Formed 50 years ago by
trailblazing guitarist and jazz fusion pioneer John McLaughlin with Hussain, L. Shankar, and Vikku Vinayakram, Shakti’s newest iteration still features Hussain and McLaughlin with a new generation of stellar Carnatic musicians – singer Shankar Mahadevan, percussionist V. Selvaganesh, the son of Vikku Vinayakram, and violinist Ganesh Rajagopalan. This sublime album, a must-listen for any Indian classical rasika open to other styles, is notable for its passages of konnakōl (Carnatic rhythm vocalisation) and the dulcet voice of Shankar Mahadevan. I was particularly taken by the innovative interpretations of ragas such as in the track Mohanam, which used unexpected pedal
notes to give the iconic raga Mōhanam (Hindustani Bhūpāli) a completely different feel, highlighting McLaughlin’s deep engagement with raga-based music. Accepting the award, Mahadevan said, “Thank you God, family, friends, and India! We are proud of you India!” and added a sweet dedication of the award and every note to his wife. Other South Asians featuring at the Grammys this year included LA-based Brian Rajaratnam, who was among the winners of the highly coveted Best Record award for his production work on Miley Cyrus’s deliciously defiant track Flowers. US-based Pakistani singer/producer Arooj Aftab and American musicians Vijay Iyer and Shahzad Ismaily created a rich atmospheric release, Love in Exile, which was nominated for Best Alternative Jazz Album. Going from ragas to rāgi, among the nominees not to win were Indian American artists Falu and Gaurav Shah in collaboration with Narendra Modi for the song Abundance in Millets, an interesting choice of nomination for Best Global Music Performance. This campaign song was released to coincide with 2023 being declared the United Nations International Year of Millets and features a 30-second snippet of PM Modi speaking at a millets conference. Besides Falu’s beautiful vocals in the Hindi sections and some catchiness in the melody, there is nothing remarkable about this song to warrant its nomination. And while hunger and biocultural diversity are urgent global problems for which millets are a likely part of the solution, the PM’s excerpted message that millets “will adorn India and world’s prosperity” makes the song more of a creatively presented international trade pitch, the aims of which call for some scepticism. Returning to the winners, I hope, amid the excitement and national pride surrounding the exciting Indian connections, that we might marvel at the richness of South Asia’s diverse musical heritage more broadly and the sheer brilliance of Ustad Zakir Hussain, one of India’s, and the world’s, greatest musical stars of all time, whose approach inspires but also forges much needed understanding across increasing religious and national divides. Hussain’s final words on accepting the Grammy for Pashto sum it up fittingly, and as crisply as any of his tabla phrases: “Without love, without music, without harmony, we are nothing”. FEBRUARY 2024 27
STAGE
‘There’s only one Elvis’ Elvis tribute artist Gerard Mascarenhas on how his act came about
BY FRANKEY FERNANDES
G
erard Mascarenhas finished in the Top 8 at the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist (UETA) competition as part of the recently concluded Parkes Elvis Festival 2024. But the Perth-based Goa-born performer doesn’t really care about winning, or where he finished. “There’s only one Elvis,” he told Indian Link, with a devotion that was unmistakable. Being in the Elvis tribute world, with the other Elvis tribute artists around him, is what drives him. “It’s a brotherhood - we learn from and support each other to be the best we can be,” Gerard said. He admitted though that the experience at the Parkes Festival, his third time attending, was unforgettable. “Performing for over 55,000 people on main stage - the energy was just unreal.” Gerard has already won first place at the ARTC Virtual Elvis competition (Parkes Elvis festival - Undiscovered category) in 2021; second place at the Elvis Down Under event in New Zealand in 2022, and third place at the Penrith Panthers Elvis Festival in Sydney in 2023. He has also had several TV appearances. So what draws him to Elvis? “The emotion in his voice. His humility. His charisma on stage. His connection with the audience. But mostly, that he dared to be different - at every stage of his career.” It all began when Gerard Mascarenhas moved to Perth in 2008 for further studies, opting to do an MBA in Hospitality and Tourism. Returning late at night from work, it was Elvis on his earphones that took away the stress and the tiredness. “Life tossed curveballs, prompting me to reevaluate my source of happiness,” he recounted. “Reconnecting with my love for entertainment, I stumbled upon karaoke at a local venue. People noticed as I sang,
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“So what draws me to Elvis? That he dared to be different.” some even suggesting my voice had echoes of Elvis.” A few free gigs at aged care homes, where Elvis's music struck a chord, boosted his confidence. During his free gigs, a band called the ‘Heartbeats’ spotted Gerard and asked him to join, and a few successful shows followed. What are his favourite Elvis numbers? “There’s too many to choose from, and my favourites keep changing every day,”
Gerard laughed. “Elvis recorded over 786 songs, so it’s hard to pick! Also, Elvis recorded different versions of some of his songs. But if I had to choose one now, it would be Elvis’ gospel song Where No One Stands Alone. I also enjoy performing Rubberneckin and Don’t Cry Daddy.” On how he mastered the moves and grooves of Elvis, Gerard said it all came naturally. “I still visualise myself on stage on the songs I’ve chosen to perform for a show, and then just let the music take over on stage,” he revealed. “For the look I had to lose weight, work out, and follow a certain diet - as I do the young Elvis. For the hair, I had to experiment a lot, find the perfect barber who understood, and spent hours in front of the mirror trying to get the shape. Now, it is just natural. I learnt to do my own makeup from YouTube.”
When asked if people are surprised to see an Indian Elvis, Gerard said, “Yes, they are, but people around me have been so supportive. But it’s not just the other artists, Elvis fans themselves are equally supportive of Elvis tribute artists from different backgrounds. At the end of the day, it’s music, and music has no boundaries… to most.” Gerard’s carefully cultivated act can be traced back to his childhood in Margao, Goa. “I was a dreamer as a kid,” he recounted. “Lost in my thoughts, I'd imagine myself on stage, moving to an unseen rhythm, earning curious looks from those around me.” Perhaps he was being prescient as a child, but his family might think differently. Music and dance were deeply woven into their Goan traditions of course, and the Mascarenhas family, musically inclined, were great entertainers in their community. Finishing university with a Bachelor's in Hospitality, Gerard’s journey led him from cruise ships to flair bartending. “Mixing cocktails and flipping bottles became a thrilling routine, always intertwined with entertainment,” Gerard recalled. “I found myself working with dance groups, adding choreography to my repertoire.” He had uncovered a latent skill, which today brings him Elvis limelight. “My journey from quiet beginnings to centrestage is a testament to the power of simplicity, and the joy of following one's passion,” he mused. “My wife's unwavering support and kids fuel my motivation.” For now, he hopes to continue performing, and to take his act to Goa and around India. “I think there’s a niche market for Elvis and Rock’n’Roll music.” We cannot let him go without asking one more question: as a diehard Elvis fan, does he believe in the theory that Elvis is alive, and living in hiding somewhere? Gerard laughed in reply. “Poor Elvis, leave him alone. He did go to a better place, even though he left us too soon.” With Rajni Anand Luthra
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Photo: Sporting News
NOSTALGIA
The father of Indian tennis Following Rohan Bopanna’s Australian Open Doubles title last month, we travel back in time to the 1960s to learn about the man who started it all BY LAKSHMI GANAPATHY
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ith Jannik Sinner’s historic victory in Melbourne making him the first Italian to ever lift the Australian Open’s Men’s Singles trophy, you might be wondering when, or if, an Indian might do the same. But one need only look back in time to see just how close we’ve been to tennis greatness. Enter Ramanathan Krishnan, the father of Indian tennis, whose trailblazing feats in the singles draw are yet to be surpassed by any Indian player. His peers described him as graceful, cool, composed, a light touch. Far from the powerful groundstrokes and serves of today’s players, Krishnan’s weapons were his serve and volley, demonstrating deft control and agility. He didn’t so much thump the ball as gently guide it. Born in 1937, Krishnan began his journey in Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu, training under his father and veteran player, T. K Ramanathan. Excluded from the Madras tennis clubs due to his age, a young Krishnan is said to have practiced on cow
dung plastered courts in rural Tamil Nadu. In 1950, he competed in the prestigious Loyola College’s Bertram tournaments, dubbed ‘the Wimbledon of Madras’. Though an event exclusively for collegeaged boys, the prodigious Krishnan was granted special admission, becoming the first schoolboy to compete at the event. At just 13 years of age, he not only took home the tournament’s first prize, but did so without dropping a set. These antics garnered national recognition, and he became the junior national title holder in 1953. This meant he qualified for junior Wimbledon; he reached the finals that year, losing to Billy Knight. Undeterred, he returned in 1954. Defeating Australian Ashley Cooper, Ramanathan Krishnan became the first Asian to lift the Boys’ Singles trophy at Wimbledon. At this point, Krishnan was old enough to make his way into the main draw and compete on the ILTF world circuit, where he would continue to turn heads. In 1954, he delivered a four-set upset over No.5 seed Jaroslav Drobny in the first round of men’s singles at Wimbledon. He would reach the third round of the main draw that year, eventually bowing out to Australian Malcolm Anderson. The peak of his career came in 1960,
when he reached the semi-finals of Wimbledon, and achieved his career best position as No. 7 seed. Krishnan had a fairytale run that year, even beating Roland Garros winner Andres Gimeno, until it came to an end at the hands of Aussie Neale Fraser, who went on to win the tournament. Krishnan experienced a similar fate in the 1961 Wimbledon, losing in straight sets at the semifinals again to Rod Laver. Sadly, he never reached such zeniths at Wimbledon after 1961, but he is to this day still the first, and only Indian to reach a singles Grand Slam semi-final. Reflecting on these losses in an interview in 1970, Krishnan would ruefully note by then ‘the game had become very fast’ and ‘dependant on a good service’, qualities which he couldn’t match. Despite his limited success with Grand Slams, Krishnan regularly went toe-to-toe with tennis greats, marking numerous victories against Australians Rod Laver and Neale Fraser. In 1962 he was even seeded fourth in the world, just behind them. Ramanathan Krishnan was a key member of India’s Davis Cup squad, turning his singles success into valuable guidance for his fellow countrymen Premjit Lal and Jaideep Mukerjea. Playing alongside
Mukerjea, they claimed the 1966 doubles rubber against Aussie No.1 duo John Newcombe and John Roche in Melbourne, even turning the home crowd in their favour! Equally, Krishnan found satisfaction in stepping back from the court and captaining his team to victory; ‘I am not fighting here for individual honours – the country comes first’, he’d say. Krishnan retired from the circuit in 1975, receiving a Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Arjuna award. His son Ramesh Krishnan has followed in his father’s footsteps, also clinching the Wimbledon boys’ title, and becoming a leading player in the 1980s. These days, they run a coaching centre together, the Krishnan Tennis Academy in Kottivakkam. Few have come close to the Grand Slam success of Krishnan in the singles draw; Vijay Amritraj made it to the Wimbledon quarterfinals in 1973 and 1981, and his son Ramesh Krishnan in 1986. Recently, Rohan Bopanna’s Australian Open Doubles title and Sumit Nagal’s singles win against 27th seed Alexander Bublik have put wind in the sails of Indian tennis fans; surely, it’s only a matter of time before we get our next Ramanathan Krishnan on the world’s courts? FEBRUARY 2024 29
FOOD
Prawn-tastic! BY DHANYA SAMUEL
I
am a huge seafood lover, especially prawns. Small or big, prawns are packed with flavour and nutrients, and are extremely versatile. Living in Australia, we are blessed to have such a good variety to choose from. King prawns and tiger prawns are my personal favourites, but there’s also banana, endeavour, coral, scarlet, bay and red spot prawns on offer. Here are two very different prawn preparations. One is a dry preparation that’s an excellent appetizer, and the other, a delicious coconut milk based curry all the way from God’s own country.
PRAWNS WITH CASHEWNUT PASTE (KAJU JHINGA) A unique and interesting dish. Instead of using whole nuts, the cashewnuts are ground to a paste along with spices to create a flavourful marinade for the prawns.
Ingredients n n n n n n n n n n n n n
600 gms tiger prawns ¼ cup cashewnuts; soaked in warm water for at least 15 min 1 inch ginger 3 medium garlic cloves 1 green chilli ½ tsp turmeric powder 1 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder (adjust to heat preferences) ½ tsp garam masala 1 tsp kasurimethi Salt, to season Vegetable oil, enough to pan fry the prawns Chaat masala, for garnish Lemon wedges, for garnish
Method Shell and devein the prawns; clean well and drain. Blend the cashewnuts, ginger, garlic, green chilli, turmeric powder, chilli powder, garam masala and kasurimethi to prepare the marinade. n Place the prawns in a glass bowl, season with salt and add the marinade. Mix well to coat the prawns evenly and keep aside for at least 1 hour (longer, if possible). n Heat enough vegetable oil in a pan to shallow fry the prawns. n Once the oil is hot enough, pan fry the prawns in batches till done. n Sprinkle chaat masala on the fried prawns and serve warm with lemon wedges. Note: The prawns can also be grilled, in an oven or a charcoal grill. n n
KERALA-STYLE PRAWN CURRY A deliciously creamy prawn curry simmered with spices, aromatics and coconut milk. Spoon generously over piping hot rice!
Ingredients n
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800 gms tiger prawns; deveined and shelled (but retain shell at the tail end) 3 tbsp coconut oil + 1 tbsp for tempering ½ tsp mustard seeds ½ tsp fenugreek seeds 2 small red onions; finely sliced 1 tsp ginger paste 5 green chillies (whole) ½ tsp turmeric powder 1 tbsp red chilli powder (adjust to heat preferences) 1 ½ tsp coriander powder ½ tsp garam masala Salt, to season ½ tsp Freshly milled black pepper 2 dried Kashmiri red chillies 4-5 sprigs curry leaves 400ml coconut milk
n
n
n
n
n
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Method n
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Heat the coconut oil in a deep pan (use an earthenware pot, if you have one). When the oil gets warm, add the mustard seeds and allow
n
to crackle. Then add the fenugreek seeds, half of the curry leaves and green chillies. Next add the ginger paste and sliced onions; sauté till the onions are softened and translucent. Then add the turmeric, chilli, black pepper and coriander powder; mix well to combine and reduce heat to avoid the spices from burning. Add the cleaned prawns and 300ml coconut milk (reserve the remaining). Season with salt and mix well. Bring to boil and then simmer gently on low heat till the prawns are cooked. Once the prawns are cooked, add the remaining coconut milk and mix well. Adjust seasoning and remove from heat. In another small pan, heat coconut oil and add the remaining curry leaves and dry red chillies. Fry for a few seconds and add this to the prepared prawn curry. Keep covered for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy over steamed long grain rice.
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with Lakshmi Ganapathy PRIYA SHARMA AND SID MADIWALE are Sydney-based content creators, best known for their lifestyle content amassing over 1.5 million TikTok followers, and as the co-creators of Dad’s Special Spice Mix. Social media is so present in our lives; as content creators, how do you disconnect? PS: Sid and I consume content between 9am and 6pm, and then we go out, and make sure to have dinner together. SM: We’re not just consumers, we’re content creators which makes it more challenging, but there are clear times when we go ‘this is social media free’, for both consuming and creating. PS: I think we call it our ‘outside time’; last night we had chai and went to a beautiful lookout… situations where you can’t be on your phone, like watching a movie in a cinema rather than Netflix.
As lifestyle content creators, how do you decide what goes online, and what doesn’t? SM: The energy may be a little heightened, but largely what we do on social media and in real life is the same. PS: Yes, whatever we do in life, we simply share it. If friends ask to hang out, we always ask if they want to be in today’s vlog. SM: All the people we hang out with are very aware this is what we do; it’s so natural, there’s no script… you wouldn’t notice it’s happening. It’s just footage, and then when you come home and edit it, that’s when you tell the story. We’re fortunate to make content where we just get to do what we’re doing anyway. I think because we left our engineering jobs, the focus is on living the life we really want to, so that is the priority, and the content comes second.
How do go about incorporating your Indian cultural identity online after
years of repressing it? SM: The content sort of evolved when we realised lots of audience were relating to [the experiences] we were talking about. PS: When I was growing up, I watched a lot of Southeast Asian creators, and I could relate to them culturally, but I couldn’t find any Indian-Australian creators. I hope that we can be [representation] for young people, so they know there’s not just option A or option B, but a C, D, E, and F too. [I hope for them to] not be so scared of who we are and our culture, and to make it cool and [for them to feel] a bit more comfortable. SM: I think language is the gateway, and when we start[ed] speaking Hindi, it allowed us to toggle between both cultures. I think we’re a bridge, and it’s great to see more representation on social media.
What's something that you're currently listening to/ reading/playing/ watching? SM: We’re so excited to go watch Fighter, the new Hrithik Roshan movie! We’re taking my parents too.
What’s a word that you like in a South Asian language, and what does it mean?
PS: I like the [Hindi] word ‘khoobsurat’ (beautiful), it’s very pretty. SM: For me there’s lots of conversation around the word ‘hoga’ and ‘hoyega’; Priya says ‘hoyega’ and everyone says it’s ‘hoga’, so I’m trying to get to the bottom of this – which one is it?!
And finally: Soan Papdi or Papdi Chaat?
PS & SM: Papdi Chaat! SM: I prefer savoury over sweet, but if we could do both and have Papdi Chaat first, that’s ideal. FEBRUARY 2024 31
TRAVEL
v a r t o t s e c a l The 5 best p I BY SANDIP HOR
f you are one with itchy feet, you’ve probably already started scheming your 2024 travel plans. These five countries are trending as hot favourites right now because they are affordable, easy to travel through and just one flight away from mainland Australia.
From tropical islands to modern metropolises, these are the hottest travel destinations right now.
A beach resort at Cebu Island
PHILIPPINES
San Augustine Church, Manila
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Often flying under the radar, the Philippine archipelago in Southeast Asia contains many hidden gems. The capital Manila, which can feel like a Latin American city, has an abundance of attractions to lure tourists including sites of historical significance, ancient monuments, some of Asia's best shopping opportunities and hotels and resorts to rival some of the finest in the region. Built on the banks of the Pasig River,
Manila was established as a metropolis after the Spanish conqueror Miguel Lopez de Legazpi laid claim to the land in 1571. The Spaniards later built a walled city called Intramuros to live exclusively away from the locals. It's still a popular tourist attraction. The Philippines is Asia's only Christian nation with San Augustine Church and the Manila Cathedral drawing huge crowds. Other notable destinations to check out in this archipelago nation are Boracay and Cebu for relaxing beach holidays.
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4 2 0 2 n i a i l a r t s u A m o r f l e v SRI LANKA
Buddhist monk at Mihintale
Just off the southern tip of India, the tropical island of Sri Lanka is drawing global attention. Despite its small size, the nation bears all the marks of a traveller’s paradise, from exotic beaches and exciting wildlife to Buddhist stupas and temples older than 2000 years. Sri Lanka's rich culture and traditions are influenced by its intriguing history of colonisation by the Portuguese, Dutch and British. The country's architecture is an eclectic mix of East and West. The capital Colombo is the best place to start before heading north to explore the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa which are home to relics and stupas. Nearby, you'll find the popular attractions Dambulla Cave Temple and Sigiriya Rock, ranked by UNESCO as the 8th Wonder of the World. Further south is the coastal city of Galle with remnants of the nation's colonial settlements. If you're more interested in tea plantations and Eastern history, head to central Sri Lanka to the former Kingdom of Kandy where 'Dalada Maligawa', the Temple of the Tooth, houses the remains of Lord Buddha's tooth.
Dagoba, Anuradhapura Burj Khalifa
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Anse Vata Bay
Nouméa Marina
NEW CALEDONIA Known as the Pacific French Riviera, this island has been under French control since 1853. It's the perfect destination for those who want a taste of the glitz and glam of Europe without having to fly more than three hours from Australia's east coast. Expect to be greeted in French on arrival in the capital Noumea. The feeling of
being in a French territory intensifies after reaching the town where billboards and street signs are in the language, Renaults and Peugeots dominate the streets, bakeries display long baguettes, and the aroma of garlic overwhelms the food. Sporting visitors can be seen joining locals in playing pétanque - a popular game in France like bowling. Besides immersing in New Caledonia's
French culture, there are plenty of things to do, from swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing to touring downtown Noumea where you'll find museums, monuments and 19th-century colonial architecture. Just a 45-minute ferry ride away, there's a tropical paradise, Amedee Island, which is home to one of the tallest lighthouses in the world. At 56 metres, the lighthouse was built in France and erected 159 years ago.
VIETNAM
Lion’s Gate
Statue of Ho Chi Minh
Motorbike armies!
This S-shaped nation in Southeast Asia is currently drawing crowds of tourists who are keen to experience a mix of old and new. With remnants of its colonial past, the country boasts a vibrant history, lively culture, awe-inspiring natural wonders and excellent food. Accommodation is reasonably priced with ultra-modern facilities. Not to mention, the people are warm and welcoming. The best itinerary for first-time visitors would be to start in northern Vietnam at the capital, Hanoi. From there, it's easy to make a quick trip to Ha Long Bay, famous for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands rising from the sea. Further south, Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, makes for a great third stop. Vietnam's most iconic attractions include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hanoi's Old Quarter, the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh and French colonial buildings scattered around the nation. This ensemble is enough to make you fall in love with Vietnam and want to return again and again. Future trips could include visiting gems in the central part of the country like the imperial city of Hue or the charming ancient town of Hoi An, which reflects a fusion of Chinese, Japanese and European influence. If you want to head off the beaten track, Quy Nhon is Vietnam's undiscovered beach destination, but Da Nang is its more popular neighbour. Also nearby is the UNESCO World Heritage My Son Sanctuary which is home to abandoned ruins of the Hindu Champa dynasty and popular amongst Indian tourists. Food is sensational throughout the country, with the steaming rice noodle soup Pho not to be missed.
Endless shopping, inspiring food options, and hordes of entertainment make Dubai a perfect holiday destination. The second-largest city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) lives with the never-ending desire to build icons, best described with superlatives such as tallest, largest, first, only, and so on. The best example is the Burj Khalifa Tower, the world’s tallest building, where visitors usually drop in first to enjoy a spectacular view of the cityscape before exploring what else is on offer. A paradise for shopaholics, Dubai boasts avant-garde shopping malls, traditional souks (Arab markets), and bargain-hunting bazaars. Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping arena, and the humongous Mall of Emirates are the front runners. Almost every name brand a person can think of has been ensembled under the roofs of these two shopping centres, where retail therapy is accompanied by thrilling entertainment. While Ski Dubai in the Mall of Emirates offers snow-filled adventures, the Dubai Aquarium inside Dubai Mall draws crowds to its 50-metrelong glass tank to watch the breathtaking diversity of marine life. No visit to Dubai is complete without a trip to the Gold Souk, the world’s largest gold market, which vaults at least 10 tonnes of the metal at any given time.
Souk
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Worth waiting for? You decide!
ENTERTAINMENT
cineTALK
Valentine’s Day romcoms. Crime thrillers. Sports dramas. Political fare. Here’s what’s on NEERU SALUJA’s watch list this month
AARYA SEASON 3 (Disney Hotstar)
LAL SALAAM (In cinemas)
Feisty Sushmita Sen returns for her final comeback in the 2nd part of the anticipated Season 3 for the Hindi crime series Aarya. Director Ram Madhvani promises that in this series, the main character Aarya will traverse terrains not seen before in the franchise –in the depth, intensity and the sadness that prompts the conclusion to her story. Releasing 9 Feb 2024
Aishwarya Rajnikanth teams up with her father, the megastar Rajnikanth, in her upcoming directorial Lal Salaam. The most anticipated Tamil film of 2024, the sports drama stars Rajinikanth in an extended cameo appearance, while Vishnu Vishal and Vikranth play the lead roles. The film has music composed by A. R. Rahman. Releasing 9 Feb 2024
TERI BAATON MEIN AISA ULJHA JIYA (In cinemas) This is perfect Valentine’s Day fare, starring Shahid Kapoor (making his comeback to the romance genre after a decade), and Kriti Sanon. There’s a twist though in this Hindi romcom: the object of Shahid’s desires here, is just that, ie, a robot. Will he end up marrying his love after discovering the truth? Veteran actors Dharmendra and Dimple Kapadia also accompany Shahid and Kriti in this unique love story. Releasing 9 Feb 2024
MATRIMONIALS SEEKING GROOM Indian-origin, professionally qualified, issueless match (working professional, not self-employed) from Australia for ’88-born, 5"3" Hindu Punjabi girl (divorced, issueless), working with a government organisation in Sydney. Must have Aus PR, and be a nonsmoker and preferably teetotaler. Email biodata with photos, parents’ contact details to: matrimonial.ml@gmail.com.
34 FEBRUARY 2024
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WARNING 2 (In cinemas) Punjabi actor and singer Gippy Grewal is back with the sequel to the action thriller Warning. Directed by Amar Hundal, Warning 2 stars Gippy Grewal, Jasmin Bhasin and Prince Kanwaljit Singh in the lead roles alongside Rahul Dev, Dheeraj Kumar, Jaggi Singh, Raghveer Boli and Deedar Gill. Will Warning 2 meet the expectations of Grewal’s fans after the success of Warning? Releasing 2 Feb 2024
BHAKSHAK (Netflix)
JE PAISA BOLDA HUNDA (In cinemas)
Trust Bhumi Pednekar to pick up yet another unconventional role! This upcoming Hindi crime drama is based on true events. Check out Bhumi in the role of an investigative journalist who wants to bring to light a heinous story, exposing abuse of young girls in a shelter for women. Releasing 9 Feb 2024
It’s showering Punjabi movies this month, as we have another new release Je Paisa Bolda Hunda. Directed by Manpreet Brar the film features Hardeep Grewal, Ihana Dhillon, Raj Dhaliwal and Sukhwinder Raj as lead characters. Releasing 23 Feb 2024
KHADARI (In cinemas) POACHER (Amazon Prime) Written and directed by Emmy-award-winning filmmaker Richie Mehta of Delhi Crime fame, Poacher is an investigative crime series that unearths the largest ivory poaching ring in Indian history. The cast includes Nimisha Sajayan, Roshan Mathew and Dibyendu Bhattacharya, and is Malayalam, Hindi and English. Releasing 23 Feb 2024
Another Punjabi actor-cum-singer favourite Gurnam Bhullar is all set to impress his fans by spotlighting the trials and tribulations of a young sportsperson in Khadari. Accompanied by Surbhi Jyoti and Kartar Cheema, the story revolves around Guru, the star wrestling player of his college and Amrit, a young prodigy and captain of the kho-kho team. Releasing 9 Feb 2024
JEE VE SOHNEYA JEE (In cinemas) More Valentine’s Day fare! A cross border tale, Jee Ve Sohneya Jee is a love story between an Indian girl and a Pakistani boy played by Simi Chahal and Pakistani heartthrob Imran Abbas. Ali, a UK delivery agent pursuing his travel dream, runs into Meher, a student aiming for solo travel in her Magic Bus. Destiny weaves their story, unfolding a heartfelt tale of love and resilience amidst life's unexpected turns. Releasing 16 Feb 2024
THE INDRANI MUKERJEA STORY: BURIED TRUTH (Netflix) HUBBA (In cinemas) Bengali film Hubba is based on the life of Hubba Shyamal Das, a gangster who was known as the 'Dawood Ibrahim of Hooghly'. Directed by Bratya Basu, the political thriller features Mosharraf Karim and Indraneil Sengupta as lead characters. Releasing 2 Feb 2024
A heinous crime in Indrani Mukerjea’s family shook the nation in 2012. Now Netflix is ready to bare the truth behind the infamous Sheena Bora murder case. Indrani, the then CEO of INX Media, was arrested for the alleged murder of her 25-year-old daughter Sheena. Did she kill her own daughter? Will she reveal the truth? Watch the documentary to know as Indrani talks about the case for the first time. Releasing 23 Feb 2024 FEBRUARY 2024 35
BACKCHAT DEAR AUNTYJI Please give me some guidance - because right now, I feel like my heart is about to break. I am a 33-year-old man born and bred here to Indian parents, and work as a lawyer in a telco in Sydney. About six months ago we got a new manager Anjali. Anjali is also born and bred here to Indian parents and she is about 28 years old. Auntyji, Anjali is heartbreakingly beautiful. When she walks into a room, it’s like sunlight has entered. She is super bright and very nice - which is how she got a leadership role. I know Anjali is single, because Ranjit from Marketing looked her up on social media. Auntyji, I am a lawyer, so I know what legislation says about workplace romances. But my heart wants what it wants. I am always very professional with Anjali but honestly, I would die for her. I want to buy her roses, I want to take her flamenco dancing in Spain followed by a bull running in Pamplona. I want to write her Urdu poetry, because one of my grand uncles was a shayar and he instilled the love of Urdu in me. Auntyji, I feel like I am dying here. I can’t profess my love for Anjali. What do I do?
Dangerous liaisons AUNTYJI SAYS Arre wah, tu toh bilkul Majnu nikla, with your roses and dancing and bloody sports. Dil kya kare, jab kisi ko, kisi se pyar hojaye. Magar, first things first. Running of the bulls is a terrible activity. Get that out of your mind, you nasamajh. As an Indian origin person, you should know better than this. What a disappointment you are to the rest of us with that stupid thought. Now, the other stuff. If you are such a deewana for Anjali, you have to give a qurbani. A sacrifice. Before you take the following actions, you need to be sure that there is no other chikna in Anjali’s life. Get Ranjit from Marketing onto this straight away. Get him to suss out this information. Once this is verified, here are your steps. Go and resign immediately. Because workplace romances are an absolute no no.
Then, start looking earnestly for another job because Anjali will probably want to be with someone who has earning potential. Once you leave the org, on your last day, ask Anjali if you can connect with her on social media. Ask her for coffee because “you need advice”. When you meet for coffee, ask her if she would be keen on another coffee. You will need to have at least six coffee
sessions before you can ask her out. This is the only halal way of doing this. You absolutely cannot sully your workplace by bringing in your dhadakta hua dil into the mix. You can only do this once Anjali is no longer your manager. Now, what reason to give for your resignation? Just say personal reasons, and look sad when asked. If the romance is a hit, then you can tell Anjali the truth. But this is the balidan (sacrifice) you need to give this Valentine’s Day. In fact, I recommend you resign on V Day - because this will be a symbolic act. PS: Are you sure you trust Ranjit? What were his reasons for stalking Anjali? You better make sure he is not the kabab in the haddi for you.
ASK AUNTYJI Do you have a question for Auntyji? Email it to info@indianlink.com.au
Multicultural NSW
Advisory Positions Are you actively engaged in your community? Applicants representing the diversity of NSW are encouraged to apply for multiple positions on Multicultural NSW’s advisory bodies. Multicultural NSW plays an important role in building and maintaining a cohesive and harmonious multicultural society that enriches the lives of all the people of NSW.
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Scan here to find out more about these opportunities. Expressions of interest close 18 February 2024. Membership on each Regional Community Network includes identified positions for Youth and Aboriginal people. www.multicultural.nsw.gov.au/careers-at-multicultural-nsw
36 FEBRUARY 2024
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FORETELL
FEBRUARY 2024 BY MINAL KHONA
Minal Khona has been reading tarot cards for the last two decades. She uses her intuition and connect with the cards mostly to help people.
ARIES
TAURUS
TAROT GEMINI
CANCER
MARCH 21 - APRIL 19
APRIL 20 - MAY 20
MAY 21 - JUNE 20
JUNE 21 - JULY 20
Aries draws the card for Pisces this month, so all the active energy could get toned down with a dreamy or laidback vibe. If dating, don’t expect the relationship to progress fast. Some of you might be a tad more emotional this month. Efforts for work done will be rewarded financially. A troublesome situation could get resolved though not completely. Take action, make bold decisions and help from others will give you good results. Expansion at work is on the anvil.
New beginnings in the new year bode well for Taureans. If single or dating, expect a life-changing love affair. You attract an increased income or a new opportunity that enables it. A new project similar to one you may have just completed could come your way. Avoid being stubborn. A situation or event may occur which can make your dreams come true and lead to further growth and potential. The result though will depend on your readiness to seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Some aspect of your life is stagnating and you must deal with it before you can grow. Do a reality check about yourself and address your fears. Expect strife and obstacles at work even if self-employed. Things could go downhill in your relationship and you might even end it for good.If unwell, you will recover. Extra business will bring in funds. Avoid negative habits and thoughts for peace of mind. If unhappy at work, you may consider looking for another job.
A good time for singles to have an important interaction that could become an intense affair. Travel for work or on holiday is indicated. Some of you may even move home. Selfemployed and professionals will have a good month. An end to delays in long-standing situations is on the anvil. Finances improve significantly. What is meant for you is on its way to you so even if things are not settled, don’t lose hope. Every area of your life is going to improve.
LEO
VIRGO
LIBRA
SCORPIO
JULY 21 - AUG 22
AUG 23 - SEP 22
SEP 23 - OCT 22
The August born draw the card for the sign of Leo, making it a double whammy. Your patience will be rewarded regarding a troublesome matter. Those dating may not be ready to make a commitment as they are still attached to an ex. Divine help will guide you in matters that are of true importance. A good, high-energy month to follow up on your goals and positive changes all around. Do whatever it is that you are truly passionate about for best results.
If single, and you meet someone who is a Cancerian, you can really hope for the best. The King of Hearts card stands for an emotionally stable person or your own state of mind this month. Some of you may want to leave your job and start your own business. Watch out for mood swings and binge eating and drinking. If working from home, ensure negotiations are clear before you start to avoid problems later. Retain integrity in everything you do.
Singles will not be in the right frame of mind or have the time to date. Those who are, should take the rose-tinted glasses off and be realistic. An occurrence will give you hope that they are. If facing health issues with your legs, take medical advice, check for diabetes and if all clear, take rest. Ask yourself what it is you seek in every area of your life and do it without being emotional if you want clarity.
A destiny card is drawn for you –it’s warning against repeating old, selfdestructive patterns, teaching you to let go, and bringing you an unexpected chance to make more money. Quite a lot of learning for Scorpios, but if done right, it can have long-lasting impact. Avoid feelings of being a martyr if your relationship is going through a rough patch. Ask for help from friends to complete a project if you have to. Any upheaval in the past will soon end.
SAGITTARIUS
CAPRICORN
AQUARIUS JAN 20 - FEB 18
PISCES
FEB 19 - MARCH 20
A time to reap some rewards for good karma or efforts made in the past. Also, a time to let go of past heartbreaks for singles now ready to mingle. The self-employed might discuss a new business idea with a partner. Those in a relationship could be thinking of moving in together. Don’t turn to food for any emotional relief. You will only gain weight, not help. Accept an offer to promote your skills or products for best results.
You draw the card for Scorpio, which might make the practical January-born a little intense and emotional. An area of your life needs healing, and this card is a sign that you should do what it takes. Singles could end up dating someone from their neighbourhood. Some of you may change career paths. Avoid getting into family conflicts. Help and additional finances will come to you. Trust your intuition and ideas. Spiritual guidance could direct you towards metaphysical interests.
Drawing the card that stands for Sagittarius indicates a month of outdoor activity; speaking one’s mind and the possibility of meeting someone with a Sagittarius personality for singles. Some good news from a friend or loved one can be expected. Some of you may move closer to your place of birth. A new initiative or a new approach to work by you will be successful. Watch out for edgy mood swings. Draw up your plans so you can follow through with them.
You draw the best card in the pack so it’s a good start to the year. Expect new opportunities and spiritual growth. If you have recently broken up with someone, let things be. You might get a second chance with this person later. Take that unplanned trip – it could change your life. Slow down a bit if you are recovering from a bout of illness. Money comes in from multiple sources. If you feel bogged down by worldly matters, work towards detachment.
NOV 22 - DEC 21
DEC 22 - JAN 19
OCT 23 - NOV 21
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Sick of spending your evenings in traffic? You could be spending them on the pitch. Eldho moved to Regional NSW where he has time to spend with friends perfecting his spin. Regional NSW needs essential workers. If you want more time to do what you love, you should make the move.
Regional NSW, make the move nsw.gov.au/makethemove FEBRUARY 2024 39
40 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 2024 2024
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www.indianlink.com.au SYDNEY EDITION 26/6/2023 10:14 am