The Indian Weekender, September 25, 2020

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The Indian Weekender Friday, September 25, 2020 

NEW ZEALAND 3 

First Leaders’ debate: Judith improvised 

progressively, but Ardern held her ground 

SANDEEP SINGH 

National Leader Judith Collins 

improvised progressively 

after initially appearing 

slightly off-colour in the first leaders 

debate at TVNZ, while Jacinda 

Ardern did not lose much ground 

despite not appearing her usual self 

of an eloquent communicator. 

Many political pundits were 

surprised to see Prime Minister 

Ardern not at her eloquent best 

and progressively losing sheen in 

her conviction and performance as 

opposed to her counterpart Collins 

who on the contrary improvised 

towards the end of the debate. 

This is when both leaders had 

walked into the debate on the news 

of recently released Colmar Brunton 

polls that accentuated Labour 

Party’s massive lead (48 %) over 

the National Party (31%) despite 

both experiencing some fall in 

their numbers. 

Against that backdrop, many 

experts who had hoped that Ardern 

could come up with an impressive, 

eloquent performance akin to many 

such performances as in Covid-19 

related public health updates that 

have dominated public memory 

in recent times, would have been 

clearly disappointed. 

Similarly Judith Collins, who 

many National’s ardent supporters 

have long hoped to be the party’s 

most potent response to Ardern’s so 

called fluff, would also be equally 

disappointed as she was not able 

to make any significant dent in 

Ardern’s popularity. 

In a tale repeated several times 

in the last three years, where Prime 

Minister Ardern had remained 

unscathed by any political-torpedo or 

seeming inadequacy in performance, 

the leaders-debate also ended 

with the same script, with Ardern 

walking away with limited damage 

to her reputation despite Opposition 

Leader Collins doing her homework 

well and coming up with several 

pointed interjections. 

Leadership is not just about policy 

and plan, but vision and hope 

However, what saved the day 

for Ardern against Collin’s spirited 

charge, disapproval, and the 

challenge was her key message that 

leadership was not just about having 

a plan, but also vision and hope for 

the future. 

Ardern’s seeming lack of plan, 

especially among her detractors, 

is oft-repeated, and so is equally 

depleted supply of hope and 

optimism in Collin’s flat-faced 

stern outlook. 

In the end it is left to prospective 

voters to choose from the two 

contrasting options. 

So far the successive polls have 

shown that the majority of New 

Zealanders are choosing to stand 

resolutely besides Prime Minister 

Ardern, despite some relentless, and 

in some case mindless, criticism of 

the government’s Covid management 

in recent times, contrary to what 

many experts argue otherwise. 

If that is any clue, then despite 

some experts giving round one 

to Judith Collins in the leader’s 

debate, it is apparent that Prime 

Minister Ardern would have walked 

away with few more supporters 

from the leader’s debate than her 

main adversary. 

ONLY ACT HAS A 

A ROADMAP 

TO RECOVERY 

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BROOKE VAN VELDEN - DEPUTY LEADER 

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within the same constraints as the rest of us. 

Only a vote for ACT ensures that the other political parties are held 

to account. ACT is the party of small businesses and self-starters. 

We are committed to helping you thrive and grow, ensuring a strong 

economy and that our children aren’t saddled with unnecessary debt. 

The ACT Party will fight for freedom of speech, freedom of choice 

and less Government interference in your life. With more MP’s we 

will ensure that we protect your freedoms. 

Nicole McKee 

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Authorised by D Smith, Suite 2.5, 27 Gillies Ave, Newmarket, Auckland 1023

4 NEW ZEALAND 

Friday, September 25, 2020 

The Indian Weekender 

3.54 per cent Kiwi-Indians received govt’s 

new Covid-19 benefit support in first two months 

SANDEEP SINGH 

income relief payment – which offers request from the Indian Weekender 

generous relief (as compared to about the number of Kiwi-Indians 

The Ministry of Social 

normal job seeker support) to those receiving wage subsidy, the 

Development (MSD) has 

who have lost jobs because of impact spokesperson said, “The Ministry is 

told the Indian Weekender 

of Covid. 

unable to determine the number of 

that 3.54 per cent Kiwi-Indians 

Only New Zealand citizens and people who have received the Wage 

received the government’s newly 

residents are eligible for this benefit Subsidy or Wage Subsidy Extension 

announced benefit Covid-19 Income 

which can be given for a maximum who identify as Indian ethnicity.” 

Relief Payment in the first two 

12-week period starting from June 8 “This is because, Wage Subsidy 

months (June-July). 

till October 30. 

applications do not require applicants 

The Ministry was responding 

Eligibility for Covid-19 Income to provide ethnicity details for 

to the Indian Weekender’s request 

Relief Payment: You may be able to themselves or their employees,” the 

made under Official Information Act 

get this help if you: 

spokesperson said. 

(OIA) about the numbers of Indianorigin 

people who would have lost a previously working full-time and benefit (8th June – 31st July), there to 30 October 2020 because of 

• lost your job from 1 March 2020 

However, it is important to note 

that MSD has earlier released data 

jobs after Covid-related lockdown part-time employee. 

were only 743 people who identified COVID-19, and 

on the ethnicities of people receiving 

and fallen back on the newly The spokesperson for the MSD as of Indian ethnicity. 

• worked 15 hours or more a week 

wage subsidy that said that greater 

announced benefit relief that offered told the Indian Weekender that of According to a NZ Herald report for at least 12 weeks before you 

proportion Asian-New Zealanders 

generous $490 & $250 per week to the total 20,957 people who received published on August 31, immediately lost your job, and 

have been supported (64% for the 

after the government has first • don’t have a partner earning 

Wage Subsidy and 22% for the Wage 

released data on the ethnicity, about $2,000 or more each week before 

Are you looking to Buy 

Subsidy Extension). 

43 per cent Pakehas/European New tax, and 

Clarifying further on that report on 

or Sell a Business? 

Zealanders received this generous • you’re not getting income 

Asian ethnicities and receiving wage 

benefit, ahead of 16 percent Maoris, protection insurance payments, 

Shaun Khanna has a business, sales and marketing experience of more than 

subsidy the spokesperson said, “The 

25 years and is a specialist in selling businesses such as Service Stations, Lotto 

causing much concern of “racial Paid Parental Leave from Inland 

Stores, Dairies, Supermarkets and Liquor Stores. He also has vast exposure in 

reason this report was able to identify 

the hospitality sector. Shaun has sold many businesses and has helped hundreds 

inequality” in the benefit system. Revenue or a redundancy payment 

of buyers and sellers of petrol stations and convenience stores throughout New 

The concern for racial inequality of $30,000 or more before tax 

some of the ethnic breakdowns of 

Zealand. Shaun understands both sides of the transaction from the perspective 

of both the buyer and the seller as he is a former successful business owner as 

he had owned and successfully run a big BP Service Station & thoroughly 

in the benefit system had emanated • you haven’t applied for the Small 

Wage Subsidy recipients is because 

understands how it works. 

from the fact that Maoris were more Business Cashflow Loan. 

the Ministry worked with various 

Shaun offers the degree of professional service that effectively brings business 

buyers and sellers together to experience successful and desirable outcomes. 

likely to be on the normal benefit (job Income Relief Payment is still agencies who provided anonymised 

Shaun has a nationwide network of contacts and a track record of success, 

receiving many referrals from satisfied buyers and sellers. 

seeker support) that offers a meagre available (it’ll stop on 5 February). information from the Integrated Data 

For a confidential, no obligation discussion about the sale of your business please 

$250 per week support as opposed 

Infrastructure (IDI) to supplement its 

give me a call on 029 770 9767 or send an email to shaunk@abcbusiness.co.nz 

No data on Kiwi-Indians 

to this newly created welfare support 

own data base. 

Shaun Khanna 

receiving wage subsidy 

that offers $490 per week. 

"This enabled the Ministry to create 

029 770 9767 

Notably, the government had and wage subsidy 

a more complete understanding of 

shaunk@abcbusiness.co.nz 

announced on May 25 a new extension 

who received support by age, sex, 

029 770 9767 

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temporary benefit system -Covid-19 Meanwhile, responding to another ethnic group, industry and region.” 

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Authorised by L Whyte, 107 Great South Rd, Greenlane. 

People and jobs are the cornerstones of thriving communities. 

Only National has the plan and the team that will create more 

jobs and a better economy to get New Zealand out of this crisis. 

I’m Lisa Whyte, National’s Candidate for the New Lynn Electorate. 

I hold a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Politics and have 

a background in corporate finance. I am a trained management 

accountant and resource consent commissioner. For the past 15 

years, I have served as an elected Local Board member – most 

recently as Chair and Deputy Chair. I have also served the community 

on boards for sports clubs and kindergarten associations and 

am currently on the establishment board for a new primary 

school. I believe in service, and that politics is all about people. 

As your MP, my priorities for New Lynn will be the issues you’ve 

told me are important to you and your family. This includes: 

√ More frontline police 

√ Improving beach water quality 

√ Safely reopening our walking tracks 

√ Upgrading and repairing our local schools 

√ Improving road safety 

√ Supporting local jobs and businesses to survive and 

thrive in a post-COVID world. 

You can find out more about National’s policies and 

what it means for you and your family at www.national.org.nz/ 

policy. 

This is the most important election of our lifetime - and your vote 

counts. Voting is open from Saturday, 3 October to Saturday, 17 

October. Head to www.national.org.nz/vote to find your nearest 

voting place. 

Please vote National and Lisa Whyte to secure a strong future 

for New Zealand.


NEW ZEALAND 5 

One News- Colmar 

Brunton Polls: Second 

Wave of Coronavirus 

fails to dent Jacinda 

Ardern’s popularity 

SANDEEP SINGH 

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has 

comfortably walked away with her 

popularity and support intact in the first 

polls after the resurgence of the second wave of 

Coronavirus in the community in mid-August, 

leaving the opposition National Party clueless. 

The much-awaited One News-Colmar 

Brunton Polls returned Jacinda Ardern’s Labour 

Party comfortably placed to govern alone at 48 

per cent dropping only 5 per cent from the last 

such polls in July. 

The National Party was languishing at 31 

percent, one percent below what it was polling 

in July polls. 

The polls has demonstrated that New 

Zealanders are still not buying National’s 

relentless criticism of the government on some 

critical issues around Covid management 

including border management, yo-yo ing 

different regions in lockdowns and seemingly 

accompanied economic strangulations. 

It also appears that National’s policyblitzkrieg 

after Judith Collins’ elevation as 

the Leader of the Party has also not enticed 

significant punters. 

The Party has launched a significant number 

of policies focussed on infrastructure, small 

businesses, education, new-born child care and 

parental support, border management, among 

others, probably in order to showcase the 

policy-deficit of the Labour Party. 

It seems to have yet not convinced a majority 

of New Zealanders. 

However, there will be another poll coming 

soon before elections. 

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6 NEW ZEALAND 

Friday, September 25, 2020 The Indian Weekender 

Kiwi Indian taxi driver assaulted and robbed, receiving hospital care 

RIZWAN MOHAMMAD 

director John hart told NZ Herald the «cowardly 

A 

attack» on a lone taxi driver highlights the 

Kiwi 

importance of having functioning cameras for 

all small passenger vehicles. 

Indian taxi driver was assaulted 

and robbed by five armed men earlier 

on Sunday morning, September 

20 in Hastings. 

The identity of the man is not being released 

at the moment as police are investigating 

the case. The taxi driver in his 40s from 

Hastings Taxi Services was robbed and 

assaulted just after 1 a.m. on Sunday on 

Brookvale Road, Havelock North, Hastings and 

receive moderate injuries to his teeth, jaws, and 

nose and was hospitalised. 

The Indian Weekender has learnt from a 

reliable source in Hastings that the assaulted 

taxi driver underwent a surgery on Monday 

afternoon as a result of the serious injuries 

to his face. The offenders took a tablet from 

the vehicle, which was later located at the 

intersection of Te Mata Road and Simla 

Avenue. Police are seeking help from the 

public to assist in the investigation and locate 

the offenders. 

“Anyone who saw anything suspicious in the 

area around 1 is, or has any other information 

that may help, is asked to contact Police on 

105 and quote file number 200920/7645,” 

police appealed. 

New Zealand Taxi Federation executive 

The most visited Indian news website in New Zealand. 

For online advertising options, email at 

sales@indianweekender.co.nz 

Hindi Diwas Mania: 

Children steal the show at the 

First National Online Hindi Festival 

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Hindi Diwas is celebrated on the 

September 14 to commemorate the 

adoption of Hindi in Devanagari 

script as one of the official languages of 

India, on September 14 1949. This occasion 

is celebrated by Hindi writers, educationalists, 

students administrators and aspirants globally 

to mark this special day. 

New Zealand was no exception! A National 

Online Hindi Festival was held on Sunday, 

September 20 under the sponsorship of 

the High Commission of India and 

the World Hindi Secretariat (WHS) 

in Mauritius. The Secretary- 

General of WHS, Dr Vinod 

Kumar Mishra, waking up at 7 

a.m. in Mauritius, was eager to 

experience the Hindi amongst 

our younger generation. 

About sixty students from nine 

community-based Hindi schools 

participated in the festival. Their presentations 

included poems, plays, riddles, quiz, dances, 

songs, religious shlokas, speeches, mock 

telephone conversation etc. showcased 

their learning, enthusiasm, motivation and 

definitely an attempt at developing eloquence. 

For their participation, each school will 

receive a plaque while students receive a 

certificate of participation. A percentage of 

these students are New Zealand born may not 

have Hindi as their home language. 

“As the representative of India, I feel so 

happy that Indian culture and languages are 

finding due place in a multilingual and diverse 

country like New Zealand. With the rise in 

the number of people of Indian origin in NZ, 

Hindi has emerged as the fourth largest spoken 

language in the country. 

“We hope that with the rise in the size of 

Hindi speakers and importance of a language 

in the conduct of business, tourism and 

educational relations, Hindi will be recognised 

formally as part of NZ’s school curriculum. 

On the High Commission’s part, we would 

"It 

was so 

overwhelming to 

watch young children 

from various schools in 

New Zealand participating 

in this Webinar well 

crafted by the 

organisers." 

continue to offer support for promotion of 

Hindi and other languages, which are carriers 

of our heritage,” High Commissioner of India, 

Muktesh Pardeshi said. 

Organisers Sunita Narayan and Rohit 

Kumar ‘Happy’ were overwhelmed with the 

positive response from schools who delivered 

a wide range of outstanding presentations. Ms 

Narayan thanked the teachers and students 

for the hard work and parents for giving their 

children the opportunity to learn our language 

and culture together with other students. 

“The community schools are 

playing a major role to fill in the 

gap in language learning in our 

school system, and although 

constrained by the pandemic, 

the power of technology made 

coming together possible,” 

Ms Narayan said. 

Mr Santosh Kumar 

Mishra, Director/First Secretary 

Vivekananda Cultural Centre, in Suva 

said it was his privilege to be a part of the 

National Online Hindi Festival organised in 

New Zealand last weekend. 

“It was so overwhelming to watch young 

children from various schools in New Zealand 

participating in this Webinar well crafted by 

the organisers. 

"It is my belief that Involving children and 

youth in such exercises is an essential part of 

promoting the Hindi language. 

“On behalf of Swami Vivekananda Cultural 

Centre, High Commission of India, Suva, Fiji, 

I would like to congratulate you all on the 

successful conclusion of this event and expect 

many more such events in future to strengthen 

the bonds of Hindi among the students and 

youth of New Zealand,” Mr Mishra said. 

Participating schools from across NZ 

were Hare Krishna School, Bhartiya Mandir, 

Bhartiya Samaj, Ram Krishna Hindi School 

of Language and Culture, Sanatan Shivcharan 

Trust Sunday School, Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan 

Hamilton Hindi School, Wellington Hindi 

School and Southland Hindi School.

Your Economy. 

Your Future. 

Find out more: www.national.org.nz/policy 

Authorised by G Hamilton, 41 Pipitea Street, Wellington.

8 NEW ZEALAND 

Friday, September 25, 2020 

The Indian Weekender 

In conversation with thespian 

Rishabh Kapoor, on his journey from 

Bollywood film PK to theatre play Yatra 


Actor Rishabh Kapoor has over the 

years come to be known as one of 

the most familiar faces in the Indian 

theatre space of New Zealand with over 15 

theatre shows, several short and feature films 

and commercials to his name. He dons the 

director’s hat with the upcoming play ‘Yatra’ 

by Prayas Theatre Company as it completes 15 

years in New Zealand. 

Besides acting and now directing, Rishabh is 

an Income Tax Lawyer having previous work 

experiences in India and works for Vodafone 

and looks after his family’s enterprise here in 

New Zealand. 

Although passionate about acting, in his 

early days Rishabh struggled to get on the stage 

and showcase his acting prowess. He recalls his 

school days when he was denied auditioning 

for the role of Julius Caeser that further hit his 

confidence to take up acting. 

It was not until a few years ago, Rishabh’s 

friend pushed him to audition for feature film 

made in Mumbai which actually turned out to 

be Bollywood’s blockbuster film in 2014 by 

Rajkumar Hirani, ‘PK’ starring Aamir Khan, 

Anushka Sharma and late Sushant Singh Rajput 

in the lead roles. 

Not many people know, but Rishabh cleared 

his auditions and also had a minute and a half 

scene in the film with Aamir Khan which was 

later omitted before release. 

After moving to New Zealand, Rishabh made 

sure he never let go off his rediscovered love 

for acting and being on the stage. Juggling 

between his full-time job and family enterprise, 

Rishabh auditioned for different characters and 

was given his first break in New Zealand by Ahi 

Karunaharan from Prayas Theatre Company in 

the play ‘A Fine Balance’. 

“Prayas is family for me; it’s the warmest 

bunch of people who love theatre and telling 

Indian stories to the world. 

“It has been a place where I feel myself, 

having no professional training or background 

in acting, they accepted me with open arms and 

let me nourish my career as an actor,” Rishabh 

says about getting his break at Prayas. 

Rishabh calls acting his first love and says 

nothing in the world excites him more than 

being on the stage or in front of a camera 

performing. 

“These past years, I have done everything 

I can to either be on stage or film or a set or 

wherever I can either act or watch and learn 

from art being created; it keeps me young and 

full of passion,” Rishabh adds. 

With five theatre plays with Prayas and a 

few with other theatre companies Rishabh has 

played the diverse roles from a person who 

does shows on streets with monkeys, a street 

vendor selling tea, an Indian Soldier in the war 

of Gallipoli, to playing the Mughal Emperor 

Aurangzeb and many more. 

Speaking about different roles he has 

portrayed, Rishabh says he preps on every 

element of the character he is playing starting 

from his walking style, the enunciation of 

words, learning the intricate details of the 

character, dialogues, body language etc. 

"It 

has been 

a place where I 

feel myself, having no 

professional training or 

background in acting, they 

accepted me with open 

arms and let me nourish 

my career as an 

actor" 

“ I 

would 

learn lines while 

doing my daily 

chores or working 

out or cooking...my 

family, sometimes 

would get irritated 

because when I am 

working on a character, 

I start behaving like it 

till the time it’s done” 

Rishabh added. 

For his work in the short 

film ‘Khush’, he was awarded 

Best Actor at My Rode Reel 

Film competition in 2019. 

The film was also a finalist in the Best Drama 

category at the competition. 

Rishabh says that the popularity of South 

Asian playwrights and Indian stories in 

New Zealand has grown manifold here 

in New Zealand, especially with the 

non-Indian audience. 

“The Prayas audience has a really big number 

of Pakeha members, in the last five years, we 

have gone from an audience size of 1300-1500 

to almost 9000 plus for a show. 

Speaking about the crew, Rishabh says, “We 

have worked and are working with people from 

all parts of the world, and our usual cast size 

ranges from 25-30 people plus a few more on 

the crew for a show.” 

Prayas is completing 15 years of its work in 

New Zealand and its upcoming production 

‘Yatra’ produced by Ahi Karunaharan 

is something intricate and emotionally 

overwhelming. 

Rishabh will be directing two of the eight 

short presentations, namely, ‘I really want to 

meet God’ written by Shashikant Tasgaonkar 

and ‘Thaneer Thaneer (Water)’ written by 

Komal Swaminathan. 

“Yatra will take its audience on a journey of 

eight unique stories told through the lens of five 

directors, woven into one theatrical evening 

and this milestone production is brought to life 

by Prayas’ award-winning ensemble, boasting 

20+ performers,” an overview about Yatra on 

Prayas’ website read. 

‘Yatra’ will be performed at Tapac Theatre in 

Western Springs from October 1 to 10. 

National working for Kiwis 

Zealanders need money to spend. National’s worse. 

temporary tax relief will give Kiwis the National’s plan will get us back on track. We 

confidence to go out and spend, which will be know that Kiwis and Kiwi businesses can grow 

crucial for our retail, tourism and hospitality our economy better than the government can. 

businesses to survive this economic crisis. We will let Kiwis keep more of what they earn. 

Kanwaljit Bakshi 

In comparison Labour’s only answer to our We know you can spend your money to look 

Member of Parliament and economic crisis is increasing taxes. No country after your family better than the government 

Spokesperson for Ethnic 

Communities, National Party has ever taxed its way out of recession. Labour can. In addition the New Zealand National 

is taking on a massive amount of debt. What Party will invest in vital infrastructure for 

New Zealanders are facing the biggest New Zealand borrows now must be repaid by future generations – like a second Auckland 

economic downturn in living future generations through taxes; it must be Harbour crossing. 

memory. To assist Kiwis during these wisely invested to build a better economy. We will double the size of New Zealand’s 

uncertain times, the New Zealand National Labour hasn’t delivered on its promises technology sector by 2030 with a $1.29 billion 

Party will cut taxes and put an extra $3,000 in and has a track record of failure: Kiwi Build plan that will aim to create at least 100,000 

the average Kiwi’s back pocket. We believe is a disaster, they have made no progress on new high-paying, future-proofed tech jobs. 

that to keep our economy ticking, New infrastructure and child poverty is getting With about 50,000 Kiwis returning home 

because of the Covid-19 pandemic, now is 

the time to harness their talent and create an 

ecosystem of technology companies in New 

Zealand. 

New Zealand’s technology exports now 

total $8 billion per annum – equal to our 

forestry and seafood exports combined. 

National’s NZ Tech 2030 Plan will be geared 

towards increasing this to $16 billion by 2030, 

establishing thousands of new tech businesses 

in the process. National’s NZ Tech 2030 

Plan is expected to cost $690 million over its 

first four years. Infrastructure upgrades over 

the following six years are expected to cost 

another $600m, bringing the total cost to $1.29 

billion.


NEW ZEALAND 9 

CHANGE YOUR FUTURE WITH ACT 

This election New Zealanders have an 

important choice to make about their 

futures. 

ACT has a bold vision for a freer, more 

prosperous New Zealand. A New Zealand where 

businesses and workers’ pay less tax and are 

free to earn a greater share of the rewards from 

their efforts.Where the next generation is free to 

build houses. Where we take a modern approach 

to funding and operating infrastructure. Where 

businesses and innovators are not held back by 

crippling regulation. 

Covid-19 has changed the way we go about our 

lives and the way we do business. That doesn’t 

mean we should let it change the futures of our 

children and grandchildren by leaving them a 

mountain of debt that they will have to pay back 

through taxes. That’s what the other political 

parties want to do, borrow and hope for the best. 

Only a vote for ACT will ensure the other 

political parties are held to account. We will 

challenge them to keep taxes and household costs 

low. We will support small businesses to thrive 

and ensure there is a strong economy. 

ACT has a fully costed plan to get back to 

surplus and start repaying the debt now. 

We will pass laws that directly help small 

businesses including reducing GST for 12 

months, bringing back 90 day trial periods so 

business owners can have the confidence they’re 

hiring the right people to fit their business and 

putting a three year halt on increasing the 

minimum wage. Business owners know more 

about the economy than any economist. We will 

support small businesses to do the best they can 

in these difficult times. 

For the past six years I have proudly 

represented the people of Epsom and the ACT 

Party in Parliament. Many of my constituents 

are hardworking Indian New Zealanders. New 

Zealand is a nation of immigrants. Openness to 

newcomers is part of our national DNA. 

Today, many of our businesses and public 

services either couldn’t function, or would be 

much poorer, without the migration of new 

people and new ideas. 

A question I receive a lot is about our position on 

the Parent Category visa. I know how important 

this issue is to your community and it’s something 

I have fought hard for. As the MP for Epsom, I 

have seen a large number of families separated 

by the suspension of the Parent Category. These 

are good people making a contribution to New 

Zealand who just want to be a family. We know 

that most people are prepared to pay their own 

way if it means being with their families. By not 

addressing this we risk losing skilled migrants 

and people who have become important members 

of our communities because they don’t want to be 

separated from their families. 

After the Christchurch tragedy, the 

Government very compassionately created a new 

immigration category for the families of victims. 

That was the right thing to do, but it raises 

the question: why not help the thousands of 

families divided by the suspension of the Parent 

Category? 

The ACT Party will fight for freedom of 

speech, freedom of choice and less Government 

interference in your life. With more MPs we will 

ensure that we protect your freedoms. Only a 

vote for ACT will change your future. 

PM Ardern unveils a memorial plaque of 

Christchurch attacks’ victims at Al Noor mosque 


Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Thursday, September 

24 visited the Al Noor mosque in Christchurch to unveil 

a plaque created in honour of the 51 victims died in the 

mosque attacks on March 15, 2019. 

PM Ardern was greeted and welcomed at the mosque 

by Muslims community members along with 

Dr Megan Woods, Mayor Lianne Dalziel, 

Imam Gama Fouda and newly elected 

FIANZ president Ibrar Sheikh. 

Speaking at the event, PM Ardern 

expressed her happiness being 

there finally after this event was 

postponed twice earlier this year. 

Ms Ardern was earlier scheduled 

to unveil the plaque in March this 

year on the first anniversary of the 

attacks but was postponed due to the 

first wave of Covid lockdown across 

the country, and it was postponed again 

in August this year due to the lockdowns 

of the second wave of Covid. 

She later unveiled the plaque on the ground of 

Al Noor mosque that read ‘In memory of the 51 Shuhadah 

(martyrs) who lost their lives on March 15 2019’ with a further 

inscription of a verse from the Quran that translates ‘We surely 

belong to Allah and to Him we shall return’. 

Imam Fouda added that unveiling of the plaque was one 

of his last wishes and is meant to strengthen the community 

remembering those dark weeks after the attack. 

Imam Fouda addressing the community members, guests 

before the unveiling of the plaque, said the plaque has a greater 

significance for the community- it should be considered as a 

model for peace. 

PM Ardern called the day of attack one of the darkest days 

in New Zealand’s history that will have a permanent scar in the 

hearts of New Zealanders and the Muslim community at home 

and around the globe. 

“Community members narrated some of the harrowing 

experiences in the aftermath of the incident and thanked 

the police, the justice system and Prime Minister Jacinda 

Ardern’s empathetic response for the victims and the Muslim 

community,” Mohammed Khursheed Jahangir, brother of 

injured victim Ahmed Jahangir told The Indian Weekender. 

Founder of the Al Noor mosque that opened its doors in 1985 

told the story of the beginning of the mosque and the minuscule 

number of Muslims in Canterbury at that point of time and how 

the mosque has become one of the most significant figures of 

hope and peace in the world. 

Earlier last month, after a four-day sentencing hearing in the 

High Court in Christchurch, Australian Brenton Tarrant, 29, a 

‘labelled terrorist entity’ and was sentenced to spend the rest of 

his life in prison with no chance of parole. 

The most visited Indian 

news website in New Zealand 

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options, email at 

sales@indianweekender.co.nz

10 NEW ZEALAND 


Consumers struggling with hard-to-fix appliances 

IWK BUREAU 

repaired. Just 24% of Kiwis would sooner 

someone to recycle their dead appliances, 

Research by Consumer NZ shows people 

replace something faulty than get it repaired, 

only 20% think it’s easy to find somewhere to 

are frustrated by how hard and pricey it 

while half felt bad when they’ve had to junk an 

recycle them. 

is to get their appliances repaired. 

appliance,” Consumer NZ chief executive Jon 

This shows New Zealand has a lack of 

The consumer watchdog’s latest survey 

Duffy said. 

appropriate recycling services. 

found only 45% of respondents thought it was 

“That’s why we’ve launched 

The Consumer NZ #BuiltToLast campaign 

easy to find someone to fix an appliance, while 

our #BuiltToLast project. Our aim is to make 

and associated e-waste project are made possible 

24% thought it was easy to find spare parts. 

it easier for people to buy more repairable and 

by partial funding from the Government’s 

Two-thirds said appliance repairs cost too 

durable products. This means we’ll be doing 

Waste Minimisation Fund. 

much. It’s time this changed. 

more durability testing and more research. 

As part of the wider plan to reduce the amount 

Kiwis expect their appliances to be repairable 

We’ll also be encouraging manufacturers to 

of harmful rubbish ending up in landfills, 

– 98% of respondents think they should be able 

address the problems we find in their products,” 

Associate Environment Minister Eugenie Sage 

to get their washing machines and dishwashers 

Duffy said. 

think manufacturers and retailers should be recently announced electrical and electronic 

fixed. “It’s clear people want it to be easier 

Consumer NZ also asked about what responsible for recycling the dead appliances products as one of six priorities for a regulated 

and more affordable to get broken appliances 

should happen with appliances once they they make and sell. 

product stewardship scheme, under the Waste 

reach end-of-life. Two-thirds of respondents While 40% of Kiwis don’t mind paying Minimisation Act. 

NZ’s apex 

body for 

Muslims, 

FIANZ 

gets a new 

president 


The Federation of Islamic Association of New 

Zealand (FIANZ) has elected a new president to 

lead the community organisation for the Muslim 

community in New Zealand. 

Ibrar Sheikh, the former president of South Auckland 

Muslim Association (SAMA), was elected the president 

of FIANZ at the election held under the supervision of 

Interim Shura Council at its office in Wellington on Sunday, 

September 20. 

Mr Sheikh had earlier served as the role of the Secretary 

at FIANZ and vice-president of Auckland City Multi-Ethnic 

Council. For nearly one year now, FIANZ was engulfed 

in internal strife concerning its leadership that led to the 

creation of two groups claiming to head the community 

organisation. 

As per a circular released by FIANZ earlier this week, 

FIANZ Council acknowledged the dispute and added 

that it had been resolved after mediation efforts from the 

Muslim community members in the last few months and 

“underpinned by a ‘Settlement Agreement’.” 

As a result of the reconciliation, and Interim Shura Council 

was formed which worked through the impacting consensus 

on the date and mode of election of FIANZ president. 

The circular further read that the election for the next 

president of FIANZ was conducted last weekend, with two 

names in the prospects, Mohammed Farouk Khan and Ibrar 

Sheikh, both from the Auckland region. 

Ibrar Sheikh garnered the majority votes at the election 

and was elected as president of FIANZ. Speaking with the 

Indian Weekender, Mr Ibrar Sheikh said FIANZ has been 

and will work to serve for the Muslim community in New 

Zealand and unite the community as one. 

“I have been associated with FIANZ for over a decade 

in different capacities, and it’s my privilege to serve the 

Muslim community this time as the president,” Mr Ibrar 

Sheikh said. 

FIANZ’s AGM will be held on October 3 next month 

to elect the vice president, treasurers and secretaries who 

will look after the operations of the organisation for the 

upcoming year. 

The most visited Indian news 

website in New Zealand 

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sales@indianweekender.co.nz 

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NEW ZEALAND 11 

Move it or lose it – Make your choice now! 

MALLIKA JANAKIRAMAN 

The human body is designed to be a 

moving machine and not to be a couch 

potato to rust away with time and age. 

Being active is like oiling a machine and an 

active lifestyle is good for your mind and body. 

There are many good reasons why you 

should exercise. Exercise builds your ‘stamina’ 

or cardio respiratory endurance – where your 

heart and lungs work better to bring oxygen 

rich blood supply to every muscle. With 

better oxygen pumping capacity, you are 

less fatigued and also develop an increased 

muscular endurance to work harder and 

longer before getting exhausted or fatigued. 

This effect also carries over while doing 

simple tasks around your house, without 

feeling tired. 

Regular exercise help manage weight – it 

is interesting to know that a low intensity, 

low aerobic exercise has the potential to use 

up the body’s fat stores and therefore help in 

weight loss. Did you know that short bursts of 

high intensity muscular activity are more likely 

to use the body’s stores of glucose rather than 

its stores of fat as a source of energy for the 

exercise. So after all losing fat is not about hard 

work but simple active lifestyles 

Regular exercise is one of the pillars of 

healthy living. It improves cardiovascular 

health, lowers blood pressure, helps control 

body weight, and protects against a variety of 

diseases. 

According to government studies, physical 

activity reduces the risk of many lifestyle 

related diseases and conditions, especially: 

a.Heart diseases and strokes 

b.High blood pressure. 

c.Type 2 diabetes 

d.Some types of cancer 

e.Obesity 

f.Depression and anxiety 

g.Osteoarthritis and osteoporosis 

h.Falls in older people 

Being active or regular exercise can 

contribute to general good health and therefore 

to a healthy immune system. 

It may contribute even more directly by 

promoting good circulation, which allows the 

cells and substances of the immune system to 

move through the body freely and do their job 

efficiently. 

Osteoporosis causes estimate 2 million 

fractures every year. Exercise helps build 

healthy bones for life! Start building your 

bone strength early on with good nutrition and 

exercise. 

Osteoporosis and broken bones is just not an 

aging process and a lot can be done to protect 

your bones early on. Invest in your bones like 

a bank deposit and save it for a rainy day. You 

are never too young or old to improve the 

health of your bones. It is time now, to make 

change forever. 

Being active and exercising regularly can 

promote regular sleep and a healthy body 

weight, avoiding the poor health effects 

associated with insomnia and obesity. Besides 

this, there are a whole range of other health 

benefits, including help with digestion and 

poor posture. 

Regular exercise or being active provides 

social benefits - whether you walk your dog 

with a friend, play tennis with workmates, or 

form a social team to run with, regular physical 

activity is just as important for a healthy mind 

and body. 

Physical activity not only appears to reduce 

the symptoms and frequency of depression 

but better still, reduces the risk of becoming 

depressed at all. It also improves self-esteem, 

coping skills and cognitive functioning among 

those living with depression. 

How much exercise is good 

enough? 

Regular sessions of 30 to 60 minutes of low 

to moderate intensity aerobic exercise can be 

an important part of a weight loss or weight 

management programme. 

For a starter you can even begin small 

breaking your day into 10 minutes for 3 times 

a day or up to 150 minutes a week. Gradually 

build up, as you feel comfortable. 

Consult your doctor if you: 

• Are over 40, or 

• Have existing health problems, or 

• Injuries of the muscle, bone or joint, or 

• You are a beginner or have not exercised 

regularly in the recent past. 

• Are pregnant 

If you’re an adult seeking free support to 

make some changes to your nutrition or physical 

activity, reach out to Green Prescription - your 

family and community, live healthier lives - no 

matter what your capabilities! 

For North Shore and Waitakere, email grx@ 

harboursport.co.nz today and get ready to meet 

your free, healthy lifestyle advisor. 

Mallika Janakiraman 

is Nutrition Strategy 

Consultant and 

Strategic Advisor at 

Healthy Babies 

Healthy Futures 

(TANI) 

THE 2020 GENERAL ELECTION 

AND REFERENDUMS 

This year you can vote 

in two referendums. 

Enrol. Vote. Be heard. 

vote.nz 

referendums.govt.nz 

0800 36 76 56 

ELE0196 Referendums_IndianWeekender_255x175.indd 1 

21/07/20 11:44 AM

Editorial 

Harnessing 

strategic ties 

with Dhaka 

Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar has recently written a book on India’s position on the 

implementation of foreign policy. 

The book was virtually launched last Thursday in Delhi at a function organised by the 

Observer Research Foundation. Jaishankar had written the book after retiring as Foreign Secretary. 

At the time, he had no idea that he would become the Foreign Minister. 

In a discussion titled, ‘Broad Canvas of Indian Diplomacy during Pandemic’ organised by the 

Indian Council of World Affairs, Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said unequivocally last 

Friday that our foreign policy is ‘neighbourhood first’. What he didn’t mention was that at present 

China and Pakistan are colluding together to test India’s military preparedness and the resolve to 

deal with what is termed as “two front war.” 

In Moscow, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to the Chinese delegates, even tried to 

understand Moscow’s temperament. In a situation of this sort, China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar require 

Bangladesh more than ever. 

Meanwhile, a self-interested group has started to spread the word in both India and Bangladesh 

that China has already made an offer to Sheikh Hasina’s government that it will hold trials for the 

Coronavirus vaccine in Dhaka and that Dhaka has agreed to the trials. On the other hand, despite 

being such a great friend of Bangladesh, India isn’t doing anything! 

Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla’s recent visit to Dhaka must be understood in this 

context. And after returning from this tour, the Cabinet of Modi Government called for a meeting 

and pledged to give the Covid-19 vaccine to Dhaka first. The Cabinet has approved an agreement 

between the two countries, stating that India will give the vaccine to Bangladesh as soon as it 

arrives. 

If Oxford or any other organisation or any other country gives these vaccines to India, India’s 

Institute of Serology will send them to various neighbouring countries in South Asia. In Dhaka the 

distribution will be done through various non governmental organisations. 

As for the reason behind providing the vaccine to Bangladesh on priority, India has called 

Bangladesh a ‘strategic’ partner. Beximco Pharmaceuticals of Bangladesh has signed an agreement 

with Serum Institute of India for the Covid vaccine. On the other hand, Dhaka has not yet signed 

any agreement with China regarding a vaccine, only trials have been approved. 

It is pertinent to remind readers in Bangladesh that at the behest of Modi and Jaishankar, Shringla 

went to Dhaka in this Corona situation and held a meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina 

during which a detailed discussion took place about the Covid-19 vaccine. 

The draft of the bilateral agreement was finalised at this meeting. The agreement reaffirms the 

triumph of the earlier friendship between these two countries. 

The journey of the bilateral friendship, which began in 1971 with the birth of an independentsovereign 

Bangladesh continues even today. Shringla will be visiting Myanmar soon. He had 

assured Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka that India will keep in mind this strategic relationship in resolving 

the Rohingya issue. 

This time around, India will enact an active role in order to solve the problem. India will act as 

an informal mediator with the Myanmar government and will then raise the issue at the UN General 

Assembly in September. Shringla went to Dhaka as the Foreign Secretary. 

He mentioned a special route for the Rohingya from Bangladesh to Myanmar, so that a consensus 

could be reached . India is particularly active in this regard but does not want to ruin the friendly 

relations with Myanmar. Friendship with Myanmar is important for India. 

As for Bangladesh, it wants India’s Foreign Secretary to go to Myanmar but that the Indian 

Government should make no statement which could hurt Bangladesh’s sovereign interests. 

The Bangladesh government has seen how the Sri Lankan government fell into a debt trap 

by borrowing from China. Sri Lanka signed a 99-year-old lease agreement with Merchant Port 

Holdings Limited in 2016 and for that reason took $ 1.12 billion. But it fell short of the terms of 

the Exim Bank of China. 

To get out of the trap of past debt, Sri Lanka had to take further loans. The balance of payments 

situation in the country is extremely serious. Hence, Bangladesh is putting its trust in India’s longterm 

friendship without falling into China’s trap. 

From Dhaka to Delhi to Kolkata, everywhere there have been articles, television talk shows, 

round table conferences at midnight. We all want democracy to last long in both the countries. 

Covid-19 has ruined the economy. India is committed to the Sheikh Hasina government. 

In the age of globalisation, no state can adopt a ‘walk alone’ policy. There is great significance 

of the India-Bangladesh border. 

Therefore, by saying that Bangladesh is its strategic partner, India wants to end all 

misunderstanding. For the same reason Shringla announced that India will resolve all the 

outstanding issues. 

Thought of the week 

“Never underestimate the power of dreams and 

the influence of the human spirit. We are all the 

same in this notion: The potential for greatness 

lives within each of us.” –Wilma Rudolph. 

25 September – 1 October 2020 

Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thu 

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Indian Weekender : Volume 12 Issue 28 

Publisher: Kiwi Media Publishing Limited 

Content Editor: Sandeep Singh | sandeep@indianweekender.co.nz 

Chief Reporter: Rizwan Mohammad | rizwan@indianweekender.co.nz 

Chief Technical Officer: Rohan deSouza | rohan@indianweekender.co.nz 

Sr Graphics and Layout Designer: Mahesh Kumar | mahesh@indianweekender.co.nz 

Graphic Designer: Yashmin Chand | design@indianweekender.co.nz 

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Editor at Large: Dev Nadkarni | dev@indianweekender.co.nz 

Views expressed in the publication are not necessarily of the publisher and the publisher 

is not responsible for advertisers’ claims as appearing in the publication 

Views expressed in the articles are solely of the authors and do not in any way represent 

the views of the team at the Indian Weekender 

Kiwi Media Publishing Limited - 133A, Level 1, Onehunga Mall, Onehunga, Auckland. 

Printed at Horton Media, Auckland 

Parlty 

sunny 

Clouds and 

sun 

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dafr 

This week in New Zealand’s history 

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Copyright 2017. Kiwi Media Publishing Limited. All Rights Reserved. 

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and pactcy 

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26 September 1865 

Native Rights Act declares Māori British subjects 

A few 

morning 

showers 

The Act deemed all Māori to be natural-born subjects of the Crown, confirming in law the 

treaty promise that Māori were to be accorded the same status as other British subjects. 


William Sutch charged with spying 

On a rainy night, Security Intelligence Service (SIS) agents gatecrashed a meeting between 

William Sutch and Dimitri Razgovorov in Aro St, Wellington. The SIS believed that Sutch, 

a prominent economist and former senior public servant, was passing information to Razgovorov, 

a Soviet diplomat. 


Lorde releases Pure heroine in New Zealand and Australia 

Following the success of her single ‘Royals’, Lorde’s first studio album Pure heroine debuted 

at number three on the US Billboard 200 charts and went on to become one of the world’s 

best-selling albums of 2014. 


New Zealand answers the empire's call to arms 

Premier Richard ‘King Dick’ Seddon asked Parliament to approve an offer to the British 

government of a contingent of mounted riflemen to serve in South Africa. Amid emotional 

scenes, the members overwhelmingly endorsed the motion – only five voted against it. 


New Zealand's first professional opera performance 

The first professional opera performance in New Zealand was put on by members of the 

English Opera Troupe and the Royal Princess Theatre Company. 


Great Flood hits South Island 

In the pre-dawn darkness, a house in Balclutha near the banks of the flooded Clutha River was 

struck by a huge tree that had been uprooted and swept intact into the current. Clinging onto 

the roof for dear life, Frederick Rehberg ‘coo-eed’ frantically for help. 

1 October 1986 

Goods and Services Tax Act introduced 

Adding 10 per cent to the cost of most goods and services, GST was a key part of the economic 

reforms of the fourth Labour government – dubbed ‘Rogernomics’ after Minister of Finance 

Roger Douglas. 

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The Indian Weekender Friday, September 25, 2020 FIJI 13 

COVID-19 vaccine still guaranteed 

to those who can afford it: PM 

Prime Minister Voreqe 

Bainimarama says Fiji and 

other developing nations are 

forced to watch social progress over 

decades slip through our collective 

fingers. 

Bainimarama says this comes 

in the face of new and terrifying 

challenges. 

He adds that months into 

economically devastating lockdowns 

and border closures, a COVID-19 

vaccine is still only guaranteed for 

those who can afford it. 

While speaking at the highlevel 

meeting commemorating of 

the UN General Assembly’s 75th 

Anniversary, the Prime Minister 

also touched on the growing effects 

of climate change among the recent 

challenges posed by the Pandemic. 

“Five years post Paris, global 

1970 Independence 

Order well preserved 

Most Fijians might be 

curious about the status of 

important documents that 

were either signed or handed over by 

His Royal Highness, Prince Charles 

on Fiji’s Independence Day in 1970. 

FBC News delved into the National 

Archives of Fiji to take a glance at 

Fiji’s Independence Order or our first 

constitution which paved the way for 

the late Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara’s 

administration in the 1970s. 

Assistant Archivist Xavier Fesaitu 

says fifty-years on – researchers, 

students, and individuals are still 

after historic records for perusal. 

“Lately, since we are going 

towards the 50th anniversary of 

Fiji’s independence we have been 

receiving a lot of requests with 

regards to these records. People are 

looking at the history of Fiji, and this 

is one of the founding document of 

our country.” 

Archives Assistant Makelesi 

Rokoleka says they have restoration 

processes for the longevity of the 

valuable pieces of paper for public 

access and preservation. 

“When they see there is a need to 

repair this document, they will bring 

it down and we will have to do our 

processes on restoration. If pages 

are torn we’ll have to mend it with 

special tapes or will have to restore 

it using special tissues. And if there 

is a need for washing of these pages, 

we’ll have to go through various 

processes.” Among the Independence 

Day records at the National Archives 

are historical photographs and 

audiovisual materials. These are 

also in high demand from various 

stakeholders for exhibition and 

display purposes leading up to the 

10th of next month. 

temperature rise is still projected to 

rocket past the 2, 3 or even 4-degree 

mark. Our ocean ecosystems 

are acidifying and a sixth mass 

extinction event is already underway. 

I ask anyone feeling bleak about the 

prospects of 2020 to imagine the 

world 75 years on from today should 

our foresight continue to fail us.” 

Bainimarama says 50 years ago 

Fiji recognized we had far more to 

gain than we could ever give this UN 

Assembly adding that this also rings 

true for even the mightiest countries 

in the world. 

The Prime Minister says every 

nation large or small, stands a better 

chance at our best future by acting in 

solidarity. 

Bainimarama adds that guided 

by the UN, countries are building a 

world of peace, but he also stresses 

that a world of net-zero emissions, 

sustainably-managed oceans, gender 

equity, digital inclusivity and 

equitable development is no less 

critical. 

He says we have the means to 

make that world a reality by meeting 

the year 75 of the UN with a political 

fortitude to see it built. 

For this to happen, Bainimarama 

says multilateralism must deliver 

once again and if leaders give voice 

and vigor to that purpose, then our 

people, children and their children 

will all see the greatest gain. 

Fiji’s 

contribution to 

the UN driven 

by genuine 

care: PM 

Fiji’s contribution to the United 

Nations has been driven by 

a genuine care for those less 

fortunate than ourselves. 

These were the sentiment shared 

by the Prime Minister Voreqe 

Bainimarama while speaking at the 

commemoration of the UN General 

Assembly 75th Anniversary. 

Bainimarama adds that Fiji’s 

contribution is evident through 

the Fijian peacekeepers who have 

defended the defenseless in the 

world’s most conflict ridden regions. 

He adds that Fiji is also driven by 

an uncompromising passion for the 

protection of our natural world. 

“Our oceans diplomacy 

spearheaded the United Nations law 

of the sea, of which Fiji was the first 

signatory. Today, we light the way 

towards the sustainable management 

of the ocean and its resources. Fiji 

was the first country to ratify the 

Paris Agreement as well as the first 

small island state to lead the climate 

negotiations as president of COP23.” 

The Prime Minister also 

highlighted that today, Fiji is among 

the nations committed to net zero 

emissions by 2050. 

Bainimarama says he can still 

recall the optimism and sense among 

our people that Fiji had something 

good to give the world when we 

joined the UN Assembly three 

days after gaining independence in 

October, 1970. 

WHO rates Fiji’s COVID-19 testing as 100% compliant 

Minister for Health, Dr Ifereimi 

Waqainabete says that the World 

Health Organization has assessed 

Fiji and has declared that Fiji’s COVID-19 

testing is 100 percent compliant of the highest 

calibre of testing. 

While receiving COVID-19 PCR Test kits 

from South Korea, Dr. Waqainabete says Fiji’s 

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama delivers statement on the 75th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). 

Picture: SUPPLIED 

PM Bainimarama joins world leaders in 

calling for solidarity and multilateralism 

Prime Minister Voreqe 

Bainimarma joined world 

leaders in calling for 

solidarity and multilateralism to 

realise the shared vision on global 

peace and prosperity at the 75th 

Session of the United Nations 

General Assembly (UNGA). 

Over 150 Prime Ministers’ and 

President’s participated in this 

historic event commemorated 

on the occasion of the 

75th Anniversary of the 

UN which commenced 

at the United Nations 

(UN), at New York 

headquarters yesterday. 

The Year 2020 

testing is rigid and stringent and if Fiji says 

someone is COVID-19 negative then that 

person is negative or if someone is COVID-19 

positive then that person is COVID-19 positive. 

Fiji has done 10,000 COVID-19 tests so far. 

Dr. Waqainabete says the testing kits donated 

by South Korea will further enhance Fiji’s 

testing capability. 

signifies the 75th Anniversary of the 

founding of the United Nations. 

Founded at the end of the 2nd 

World War, the UN has evolved into 

the most important body for global 

governance, international peace and 

security and development. 

Mr Bainimarama reflected on Fiji’s 

partnership with the United Nations 

"I 

recall the 

optimism of that 

moment; that sense 

among our people that Fiji 

had something good to give 

the world and something 

much larger to gain from 

a multilateral pursuit of 

peace" 

in advancing its mandate on 

global prosperity. 

“On the 10th of 

October, 1970, 

Fiji became an 

independent 

country. Three 

days later, 

we joined this 

Assembly. 

“I recall the optimism of that 

moment; that sense among our people 

that Fiji had something good to give 

the world and something much larger 

to gain from a multilateral pursuit of 

peace. 

"For 50 years, Fiji’s contribution 

to the United Nations has been 

driven by genuine care for those 

less fortunate than ourselves and 

uncompromising passion for the 

protection of our natural world.” 

Mr Bainimarama reminded the 

UN that “Fijian Peacekeepers have 

served more than 40 years defending 

the defenceless in the World’s most 

conflict ridden regions”. 

The Health Minister adds that measures at 

Fiji’s borders have been robust and the broader 

health unit agents have worked tirelessly to 

protect everyone beyond those points. 

He says the government will continue to work 

hard in protecting all Fijians in this unorthodox 

health pandemic period.

14 

INDIA 


India: Coronavirus cases 

Confirmed: 5,118,253 | Deaths: 83,230 

Recovered: 4,025,079 

World: Coronavirus cases 

Confirmed: 30,037,107 | Deaths: 945,097 

Recovered: 21,804,247 

Without comprehensivereforms, UN 

faces crisis of confidence: PM Modi 

Prime Minister Narendra 

India’s Permanent Representative 

Modi said the United Nations 

to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti 

faces a “crisis of confidence 

introduced Modi’s pre-recorded 

without comprehensive reforms”, 

adding that the world requires 

statement from the UN General 

Assembly Hall. 

a reformed multilateralism that 

“We support the ongoing reforms 

bespeaks the realities of today, gives 

by the Secretary-General, we 

voice to all stakeholders and engages 

with contemporary challenges. 

Modi made these remarks ahead of 

India taking a seat at the UN Security 

Council as an elected non-permanent 

reiterate our call for reforms of 

three of the principal organs of the 

United Nations. 

"We commit to instil new life in 

the discussions on the reform of 

member for a two-year term that 

the Security Council and continue 

starts on January 1, 2021. 

the work to revitalise the General 

Speaking in a video address to 

Assembly and strengthen the 

The PM pointed out that the 

the high-level meeting of the UN "We 

Economic and Social Council,” 

declaration too took cognizance of 

General Assembly to begin the 75th 

Modi said. 

the need for reform of the UN. 

cannot 

anniversary of the United Nations, 

He added that India has been 

He said, “While much has been 

Modi said, “We cannot fight today’s 

fight today’s 

leading decades-long efforts to 

achieved, the original mission 

challenges with outdated structures. 

remains incomplete. 

challenges 

reform the Security Council, saying 

Without comprehensive reforms, the 

a structure established in 1945 does 

"The declaration we are adopting 

UN faces a crisis of confidence.” 

with outdated 

not fully show the contemporary 

today acknowledges that work 

As part of its 75th anniversary, the 

structures. Without realities of the 21st century and is 

still needs to be done in preventing 

UN General Assembly has adopted 

conflict, ensuring development, comprehensive 

not adequately-equipped to take on 

a declaration in which the heads of 

current challenges. 

addressing climate change, reducing 

states and governments reaffirmed 

reforms, the UN 

Modi also underscored the fact 

inequality.” 

their commitment to leave no one 

faces a crisis of 

that as a founding signatory of the 

This year’s high-level UN General 

behind, preserve the planet, promote 

UN charter, India shared values, 

Assembly is being organised virtually confidence 

peace and prevent conflicts, abide 

which showed India’s own tenets of 

as world leaders did not travel to 

by international law and ensure 

‘vasudhaiva kutumbakam’, which 

New York for the annual meeting due 

justice, place women and girls at the 

recorded video statements for the views all creation as a family. 

to the coronavirus pandemic. 

centre, build trust, improve digital 

high-level week, including the “Our world today is a better place 

Heads of states and government 

cooperation and upgrade the United 

special commemoration of the UN’s because of the United Nations,” the 

and ministers submitted their pre- 

Nations, among other issues. 

75 years and the General Debate. PM added. 

Officer from Varanasi set to be 

first woman pilot to fly Rafale 

Flight Lieutenant Shivangi Singh is set to 

become India’s first woman fighter pilot 

to fly the Rafale aircraft that was formally 

inducted into the Indian Air Force on September 

10, officials familiar with the matter said. 

Singh, who hails from Varanasi, is currently being 

trained to fly IAF’s newest fighter based in Ambala. 

She is undergoing conversion training to fly the 

Rafale jet and will soon join the Ambalabased 

No. 17 squadron, also known as 

"The 

struggle 

of two decades 

has culminated into 

this storm! In the past 

three years so much has 

progressed and now we 

are seeing yet another 

door opening" 

“Golden Arrows.” 

The officer, who is one of IAF’s 

10 women fighter pilots, joined 

the air force in 2017. After joining 

IAF, she has been flying the MiG-21 

Bison aircraft and was till recently 

serving at a fighter base in Rajasthan, 

the officials added on condition 

of anonymity. 

Ten women have been commissioned as fighter 

pilots after the experimental scheme for their 

induction into IAF’s combat stream was introduced 

in 2015, a watershed in the air force’s history. 

IAF is operating its Rafale fighter jets in the 

Ladakh theatre where the military is on its highest 

state of alert, amid heightened border tensions with 

China. IAF’s current fleet of five Rafale fighters 

is fully operational and ready to undertake any 

mission, officials said. 

India ordered 36 Rafale jets from France in a 

deal worth Rs 59,000 crore in September 2016. 

The air force formally inducted the planes at the 

Ambala air base on September 10 though they 

landed at their home base on July 29. 

The next batch of three to four Rafale jets is 

expected to reach Ambala from France in October 

followed by a third batch in December. All 

deliveries will be completed by the end of 2021. 

G4 nations call 

for ‘urgent’ UN 

reforms 

The G4 countries – Brazil, 

India, Japan and Germany 

– expressed disappointment 

at attempts to derail reforms of the 

United Nations and called for textbased 

negotiations within a fixed 

timeframe to revamp the world body. 

The foreign ministers of the four 

countries, during a virtual meeting 

during the 75th session of the UN 

General Assembly, highlighted the 

urgency of reforming the world 

body and updating its main decisionmaking 

bodies to better reflect 

contemporary realities. 

The move is in line with India’s 

position on the reforms of the UN, 

including expansion of the permanent 

and non-permanent membership 

of the Security Council, its main 

decision-making organ. 

The foreign ministers – Brazil’s 

Ernesto Araújo, India’s S Jaishankar, 

Japan’s Motegi Toshimitsu and 

Germany’s minister of state in the 

federal foreign office, Niels Annen, 

who represented foreign minister 

Heiko Maas, said the declaration 

adopted by all heads of state and 

government on the 75th anniversary 

of the UN reaffirmed the “common 

resolve to finally take decisive steps 

towards the early and comprehensive 

reform of the Security Council”. 

The head count of women in the 

military adds up to more than 4,000, 

but combat roles were off limits to 

them until IAF took the lead in crushing 

internal resistance to induct them into 

the fighter stream. 

Tanks and combat positions in the infantry 

are still no-go zones for women, who were allowed 

to join the armed forces outside the medical stream 

for the first time in 1992. 

Warships are no longer a no-go zone for women 

naval aviators with two of them set to become the 

first women in the navy’s history to operate from 

flight decks of warships and stay on board the 

vessels, the navy announced on Monday. 

Sub Lieutenants Kumudini Tyagi and Riti Singh 

have been selected for the helicopter stream. 

“The struggle of two decades has culminated 

into this storm! In the past three years so much 

has progressed and now we are seeing yet another 

door opening. 

"Absolutely delighted that the air force has not 

dithered and true to its grain has handed over the 

newest machine to Shivangi. Go girl ....Touch the 

sky with glory,” said Wing Commander Anupama 

Joshi (retd), from the first batch of women officers 

commissioned in the IAF in early1990s.

The Indian Weekender Friday, September 18, 2020 

WORLD 15 

MAKHANA SNACK 

INGREDIENTS 

Lotus Seeds 

Makhanas are gluten free, protein rich and high in carbohydrates. 

They are low in calories, thus making them an ideal snack for 

weight loss. Makhanas are also known as fox nuts. 

MAKHANA TIKKIES 

INGREDIENTS 

• 1cup - makhana 

• 1tsp - clarified butter (ghee) 

• 2tbsp - peanuts 

• 4 - potatoes, medium 

• 3 - green chillies 

• 1tsp - fennel seeds 

• 1tsp garam masala powder 

• 1tsp - chaat masala powder 

• 1tsp - salt 

• Coriander leaves 

• 4tbsp - oil 

METHOD 

• In a medium heavy base fry pan 

add clarified butter over low 

flame. 

• Add makhana and roast them for 

5-6 minutes till they are slightly 

brown and crisp. Set aside. 

• In the same pan dry roast peanuts 

then transfer them into a plate to 

cool. 

• Boil potatoes and mash them with 

the fork. 

• Coarse grind the roasted 

makhanas and peanuts separately 

then transfer them into a large 

bowl. 

• Add mashed potatoes to the 

makhana mixture. 

• Chop green chillies then add them 

to the makhana mixture. 

• Add fennel seeds, garam masala 

powder, chaat masala powder and 

salt, mix well. 

• Chop fresh coriander leaves and 

add them to the makhana mixture, 

mix everything well with the fork. 

• Moist your palms with little oil 

then form the mixture into round 

or oval tikkies. 

• In the same fry pan add 2 

tablespoon of oil over medium 

flame. 

• Sauté tikkies lightly in pan until 

both sides are golden brown in 

colour. 

• Add another 2 tablespoon of oil 

and fry another batch of tikkies. 

• Repeat the process until all the 

tikkies are done. 

• 4cups - makhana 

• 2tsp - clarified butter (ghee) 

• 15 - curry leaves 

• 8 - dry red chillies, whole 

• 1/2tsp - turmeric powder 

• 1/2tsp - kashmiri chilli powder 

• 1/2tsp - black pepper powder 

• 1tsp - salt 

• 1tsp - chaat masala powder 

• 1/4tsp - mango powder (amchoor powder) 

• Add turmeric powder, chilli powder, black pepper 

• 1tsp - mustard seeds 

powder and salt, sauté for a minute. 

• 1/4tsp - fenugreek seeds 

• Add chaat masala, mango powder, mix well and then 

• 10 - curry leaves 

remove the pan from the flame. 

• 1/2cup - peanuts 

• Let it cool then grind everything together and transfer 

• 1tbsp - channa dal 

it into a plate. 

METHOD 

• Then in the same pan add another 1 teaspoon of butter 

• In a medium size heavy base fry pan dry roast the over medium flame. 

makhanas over low flame while stirring continuously • Add mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, curry leaves when 

till they are brown and crisp. 

they start to splatter add peanuts and channa dal; fry 

• Then transfer them into a plate (to check if they are everything together for 2-3 minutes. 

chrisp, press one roasted makhana with your fingers). • Add roasted makhanas to the peanut mixture and mix 

• In the same fry pan add 1 teaspoon of clarified butter well. Then transfer everything into a plate to cool. 

over medium flame. 

• Once the makhana mixture is of room temperature, 

• Once the butter melts add curry leaves, break red store it in an air tight glass container. 

chillies with your hand and add them, stir. 

• Serve with a cup of tea. 

CARAMELIZED MAKHANA 

INGREDIENTS 

• 2cups - makhana 

• 1/2cup - jaggery, chopped (gur) 

• 1tbsp - clarified butter (ghee) 

• 1tsp - sesame seeds 

METHOD 

• In a medium size heavy base fry pan dry 

roast the makhanas over low flame while 

stirring continuously till they are brown 

and crisp. set aside. 

• In the same pan add clarified butter over 

medium flame. 

• Add jaggery and let it melt while stirring 

continuously. 

• Once the jaggery is melted remove the 

pan form the flame. 

• Add makhana and quickly and 

continuously stir to coat the 

makhana’s with the jaggery 

(in a few minutes Makhanas 

would be covered with 

jaggery). Sprinkle sesame 

seed while stirring the 

makhanas (if the makhanas 

stick to each other that is 

fine you can seperate them 

once they are cool). 

• Once the makhanas are 

cool, store them in an airtight 

container. 

• Serve (its a good snack that you 

can nibble at any time). 

25 September – 01 October 2020 | By Manisha Koushik 

ARIES (MAR 21-APR 20) 

You may not like the developments that are 

happening in your life at this juncture, but little 

you can do about it. Feeling the crunch on the 

financial front is foretold. A tussle at work may 

pit you against someone more powerful. Winning 

people over on the social front may not be as easy 

as it seems. You may find solace in the company 

of like-minded people. Health needs care, so don’t 

take any liberties. Lucky No.:5 / Lucky Colour: Lavender 

TAURUS (APR 21-MAY 20) 

Keep a firm grip over things, as someone may try to 

sideline you. Suitable match for someone eligible is 

likely to be finalized. Taking possession of a house 

or a flat cannot be ruled out for some. Someone’s 

practical advice is likely to ease your burden on 

the professional front. Spending time with beloved 

and exchanging sweet nothings will prove most 

rewarding. Health remains satisfactory. Lucky No.: 2 / Lucky Colour: 

Light Blue 

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUN 21) 

This is the time when you manage to take control 

of the situation, despite stiff opposition. You 

manage to keep people who matter on your right 

side on the social front. Self-confidence and way 

with words will be enough to floor someone 

of the opposite gender on the romantic front. A 

pilgrimage is likely to be undertaken by some 

to participate in a religious event. Some of you 

may decide to shift to a better accommodation. Lucky No.:4 / Lucky 

Colour: Royal Blue 

CANCER (JUN 22-JUL 20) 

Take the side of the winning team and leave losers 

behind, if you want the spotlight to be on you once 

again. Worries facing some on the family front 

are set to disappear. Achievements of a family 

youngster are likely to warm the cockles of your 

heart. You may find yourself in a romantic mood 

in week, so the only right thing for you to do is to 

convey this mood to lover! Change in lifestyle will 

benefit health. Lucky No.:6 / Lucky Colour: Violet 

Manisha Koushik is a practicing astrologer, tarot card reader, numerologist, vastu and 

fengshui consultant based in India with a global presence through the online channels. She is 

available for consultations online as well. E-mail her at support@askmanisha.com or contact 

at +91-11-26449898 Mobile/Whatsapp: +91-9716145644 • www.askmanisha.com 

LEO (JUL21-AUG 20) 

You may not be in the right frame of mind to tackle 

anything complicated, so give it a go by. Settling 

down in a new house is indicated for some. Some 

of you may crave for approval from higher ups in 

whatever you are involved in on the professional 

front. Putting together money for something major 

may become your aim. Your attempts to gain 

popularity on the social front are likely to meet with 

partial success. Lucky No.:3 / Lucky Colour: Lemon 

VIRGO (AUG 23-SEP 23) 

A good opportunity on the financial front is likely to 

materialise soon. You will be able to garner support 

and resources for something you have undertaken 

on the professional front. A changed mindset is 

likely to make you more acceptable to others on 

the social front. Avoiding excesses and focussing 

on health may become the key factors in attaining 

total fitness. You can be at your ingenious best at making excuses for 

refusing money to someone. Lucky No.:4 / Lucky Colour: Lavender 

LIBRA (SEP 24-OCT 23) 

You will take the reins of an important event in 

your hand and steer it to success. Inputs given 

by you on the professional front are likely to be 

implemented. Acquiring a house or flat is on the 

cards, as you manage to arrange a loan. Those 

pursuing studies are likely to excel and be in the 

forefront. A family gathering is on the cards and 

will be most exciting. Money flowing in from unexpected quarters is 

possible. Lucky No.:1 / Lucky Colour: Baby Pink 

SCORPIO (OCT 24-NOV 22) 

You may need support in a new venture, so go 

for it. Becoming over eager to achieve something 

at work needs to be curbed, as you can tread on 

somebody’s toes. Your help and support in a social 

event is expected, so don’t disappoint. Don’t feel 

reluctant in putting your own money in a scheme, 

as you will get it back immediately. Remain 

regular in your workouts for the sake of your health. Don’t lose talented 

people. Lucky No.18 / Lucky Colour: Lemon 

SAGITTARIUS (NOV 23-DEC 21) 

You may get bogged down in the nitty-gritty of 

things and miss the big picture. A new house may 

come into your possession after a long wait. Stars 

look favourable for travel, so start planning a 

vacation. Immense fulfillment is visualized on the 

romantic front for those newly in love. You may be 

branded anti-social by your near and dear ones on 

the social front, due to your reluctance to mingle. 

Curb overconfidence on the academic front. Lucky No.: 8 / Lucky 

Colour: Forest Green 

CAPRICORN (DEC 22-JAN 21) 

There is nothing you can do regarding a 

development, so if you can’t win ‘em, join ‘em! 

Fun time is foreseen on the social front, as you 

get a chance to meet your near and dear ones. 

Travelling together to someplace enjoyable is 

foreseen. Investing in a property now will be a step 

in the right direction. Your self-confidence and gift 

of the gab will keep you on the forefront on the 

professional front. Health remains satisfactory. Lucky No.: 17 / Lucky 

Colour: Electric Grey 

AQUARIUS (JAN 22-FEB 19) 

You may need to be level-headed in matters 

professional. A scheme launched is soon to 

become a cash cow and bring in good profits. 

Don’t expect anyone to volunteer help on the 

family front, ask for it. Lover may get a bit 

selfish, where relationship is concerned. Social 

front will be most happening, so expect to make a 

few new friends. An old ailment may show signs 

of recurring. Smooth sailing on academic front is 

foreseen. Lucky No.: 22 / Lucky Colour: Royal Blue 

Pisces (Feb 20-Mar 20) 

It is a good time to press a demand that you 

have been making for long. Business front looks 

promising as a lucrative deal is set to materialise 

soon. Your efforts on the academic front are likely 

to bear fruits. Those aiming for perfect figure 

and physique may find health foods and drinks 

beneficial. Indulging in office romance cannot be 

ruled out for some. An item purchased may exceed 

the budget. Don’t read too much into someone’s odd behaviour. Lucky 

No.: 4 / Lucky Colour: Dark Slate Grey

16 

FEATURES 


Kangana, Anup Jalota 

laud Yogi for planning 

‘biggest’ film city in UP 

Bollywood actor Kangana Ranaut 

and singer Anup Jalota have lauded 

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi 

Adityanath for announcing plans to set up 

the country’s ‘biggest and most beautiful film 

city’ in Gautam Buddh Nagar district of UP. 

In a set of two tweets from @KanganaTeam, 

Ranaut said, “People’s perception that the 

top film industry in India is the Hindi film 

industry is wrong. 

Telugu film industry has ascended itself to 

the top position and now catering films to pan 

India in multiple languages, many Hindi films 

being shot in Ramoji (film city) Hyderabad. 

"I applaud this announcement by @ 

myogiadityanath ji. We need many reforms 

in the film industry first of all we need one 

big film industry called Indian film industry. 

We are divided based on many factors. 

Hollywood films get advantage of this. One 

industry but many film cities.” 

Ranaut’s comments are significant due to 

her ongoing war of words with Shiv Sena 

over her comments on an alleged drugs 

culture in Bollywood and a legal battle with 

the Mumbai civic body over the demolition 

of her office in the city. 

Ranaut, recently said she was leaving 

Mumbai with a heavy heart after visiting 

the city for a few days under protection of Y 

category security provided by the centre in 

the wake of alleged threats by Shiv Sena MP 

Sanjay Raut warning her against coming to 

Mumbai. 

Dia Mirza: Never procured, consumed 

narcotic or contraband substance 

In a video message, Jalota 

said, “I thank and congratulate 

UP CM Yogi Adityanath on the 

announcement of film city in UP. 

"Mumbai film industry shines 

because of talents from UP. Now, 

when UP will have a film city, UP 

will shine.” 

During a meeting to review development 

works in Meerut division, comprising 

Meerut, Ghaziabad, Bulandshahr, Hapur, 

Baghpat and Gautam Buddh Nagar districts, 

through videoconferencing on Friday night, 

Yogi had asked officials to find a suitable 

land in or around Noida for setting up the 

film city. 

“The CM, while addressing a review 

meeting, announced to set up the biggest 

and most beautiful film city of the country 

"We 

need many 

reforms in the film 

industry first of all we 

need one big film industry 

called Indian film industry. 

We are divided based on 

many factors. Hollywood 

films get advantage 

of this. " 

in Gautam 

Buddh 

Nagar. 

" He 

instructed 

officials to 

search 

for a 

suitable land in or 

around Noida, 

Greater Noida 

or Yamuna 

Expressway 

and prepare 

an action 

plan,” an 

official 

statement 

said. 

Sushant Singh Rajput 

gets a wax statue in 

West Bengal 

A 

veteran 

w a x 

artist 

of West Bengal 

has sculpted a 

full-sized statue 

of actor Sushant 

Singh Rajput as a 

mark of tribute. Sushanto 

Roy (64), state’s first wax artist, 

has chiselled the statue, having striking 

resemblance with the actor who 

was found hanging at his Mumbai 

apartment on June 14. 

Sushant Singh Rajput’s death case 

is currently being probed by CBI and 

other central agencies. 

It took Roy one and half month to 

complete the statue of the actor at his 

studio here in West Burdwan district. 

The veteran artist has previously 

sculpted wax statues of megastar 

Amitabh Bachchan, football legend 

Diego Maradona and Marxist 

patriarch Jyoti Basu since 2001. 

His wax sculpting of former 

President Pranab Mukherjee occupies 

a pride of place at Rashtrapati 

Bhavan. 

“I sculpt the statues of personalities 

with whom I feel emotionally 

attached in some way or the other. 

Whose life and works inspire me. 

Be it Amitabh Bachchan, Jyoti Basu, 

Pranab Mukherjee or Maradona. 

“The wax statue of Sushant was 

also made for the same reason, 

though I regret that I will never be 

able to show it to the actor, whose 

struggle in acting career should be 

an inspiration to all aspiring actors,” 

Roy said 

The Lunchbox turns 7, Nimrat Kaur: 

‘Overnight from that Cadbury girl, my 

identity became that girl in that Irrfan movie’ 

Bollywood actress Dia 

Mirza has taken to 

Twitter to refute reports 

claiming she is on the Narcotics 

Control Bureau (NCB) radar 

and might be summoned by the 

agency for questioning. 

Actor Nimrat Kaur took to social 

Choice Award. It was also screened at 

Dia took to her verified 

media to fondly remember 

the Toronto International Film Festival. 

Twitter account on Tuesday 

her film, The Lunchbox, as it 

In May, while out on an errand, 

evening to claim that she has painstakingly built with years turned seven. She also wrote evocatively 

Nimrat had spotted a mural with 

never in her life procured of hard work. 

about her association with late actor 

Irrfan’s face on the wall of a house 

or consumed any narcotic 3) I have never procured Irrfan Khan. Nimrat wrote: “Today, 

and had written how it was just a 

or contraband substances of or consumed any narcotic or 7 years ago in India, overnight from 

few houses away from where Saajan 

any form and called the news contraband substances of any ‘that Cadbury girl’, my identity became 

Fernandes (Irrfan’s character in The 

reports as "false, baseless" and form in my life. I intend to that girl in that Irrfan movie..one of 

Lunchbox) lived. 

"frivolous reporting", which pursue the full extent of legal life’s greatest honours as his ardent 

She wrote: “Chanced upon this 

might impact her reputation and remedies available to me as a fan, admirer and an actor. Forever 

arresting mural in Ranwar Village on 

career. The actress tweeted: "1) law abiding citizen of India. blessed to have shared this gift of a 

an errand run today. Incidentally only 

I would like to strongly refute Thanks to my supporters for journey... #7YearsOfTheLunchbox “The Lunchbox is my favourite love a few houses down the one where 

and categorically deny this standing by me." 

#IrrfanForever.” 

story of the year. It’s sweet, sad and Saajan Fernandes’s house was located 

news as being false, baseless Earlier in the day, news The Lunchbox starred Nimrat, deeply aching. Debutant director Ritesh in The Lunchbox. Such an ominous yet 

and with mala fide intentions. reports claimed that Dia Irrfan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui in Batra captures the harrowing loneliness celebratory confluence of life and art. 

2) Such frivolous reporting Mirza might be summoned for prominent roles. 

that a metropolis like Mumbai fosters, My heart felt compliments to the artist 

has a direct impact on my questioning by the NCB, which The film, written and directed by the hope of happiness that glimmers and @bollywoodartproject and a million 

reputation being besmirched is investigating the drug angle Ritesh Batra, went on to win laurels enables us to go on.” 

thoughts and loving prayers for this 

and is causing damage to in the death of late Bollywood at international film festivals. The At the 66th Cannes Film Festival, immortal soul. All that came to the mind 

my career which I have actor Sushant Singh Rajput. Hindustan Times review of the film said, the film won the Critics Week Viewers was, who knew...#IrrfanForever.” 

Yogi meets filmmakers, invites them to UP 

Several filmmakers on Tuesday met Uttar 

Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath 

through video conferencing to discuss 

the film city project. 

The Chief Minister shared a presentation 

with the guests and assured filmmakers of all 

help in film making in the state. He said that the 

proposed film city would be spread over 1,000 

acres of land. He said that Uttar Pradesh was 

the heart and hub of India – be it the Freedom 

Struggle movement, culture or mythology. 

"We have Ayodhya, Kashi and Mathura. 

There is Hastinapur which is related to 

Mahabharat. There is history and there is 

culture here," he added. 

The Chief Minister spoke about the 

state's connectivity and said that the Jewar 

international airport project was underway and 

many new airports were on the anvil. 

The Chief Minister also spoke about the 

Kumbh Mela organised by his government 

last year and said that the event had been 

appreciated worldwide. 

Among those who attended the meeting 

included actor Paresh Rawal, Anupam Kher, 

singers Anup Jalota, Udit Narain and Kailash 

Kher, lyricist Manoj Muntashir, filmmakers 

Satish Kaushik, Subhash Ghai, David Dhawan, 

Priyadarshan, Saundarya Rajnikanth, Raveena 

Tandon and Raju Srivastava, among others.

Clearance Sale 

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18 

SPORTS 


PL 2020: MS Dhoni explains 

the reason behind batting 

at No. 7 for CSK against RR 

On Tuesday night, in a stiff chase of the 217-run 

target set by Rajasthan Royals, it was pretty 

baffling to see MS Dhoni not bat up the order and 

reserve himself to No. 7 during the Chennai Super Kings 

innings. With CSK at one stage reduced to 77/3 in the 

ninth over, the stage was set for Dhoni to take centre stage 

before unleashing ‘the finisher’ in him. But instead, Dhoni 

let Ruturaj Gaikwad and Kedar Jadhav bat ahead of him. 

After the match, Dhoni explained the reason behind 

keeping himself at No. 7, saying he wanted to give 

opportunities to others knowing that he hasn’t batted in 

a long time. Sam Curran, who had a crucial role to play 

with the bat against Mumbai Indians, was sent at No. 4 

again. In the end, Faf du Plessis played a magnificent 

knock of 72 off 27 balls but it wasn’t enough for CSK to 

get over the line in Match 4 of the IPL 2020 

“I haven’t batted for a long time. 14- 

day quarantine doesn’t help (why he 

"Once 

you’ve seen 

the first innings, 

you know the length 

to bowl. Their spinners 

did well to bowl 

away from the 

batsman." 

isn’t batting higher). Also wanted to 

try different things, give opportunities 

to Sam. Have the opportunity to try 

different things. If it doesn’t work, you 

can always go back to your strengths. 

Faf adapted very well. Something the 

batsmen will do, neglect square leg and go 

more towards long-on and long-off,” Dhoni said after the 

match. 

Dhoni eventually finished with 29 off 17 balls, 

including hitting a hat-trick of sixes in the final over 

bowled by Sam’s brother, Tom Curran. Earlier, in reply to 

RR’s total, CSK’s opening pair of Murali Vijay and Shane 

Watson had put on 56 in 6.3 overs, but Dhoni reckoned 

his team needed an even better start. 

“With 217 on the board, we needed a very good start 

which was not the case. 

"Steve and Samson batted very well. Need to give 

credit to their bowlers,” Dhoni said. 

“Once you’ve seen the first innings, you know the 

length to bowl. Their spinners did well to bowl away from 

the batsman. Our spinners made the error to bowl too full. 

If we would’ve maybe restricted them to 200, it would’ve 

been a good game.” 

IPL 2020, RR VS CSK: Why 

Royals and Steve Smith should 

be scared of Ravindra Jadeja 

The clash between Chennai 

Super Kings and Rajasthan 

Royals in Sharjah on Tuesday 

will pit two old rivals against each 

other. Rajasthan Royals beat CSK 

to win the maiden title, but have 

found the going tough in the league 

ever since. They have a clutch of 

international stars who could propel 

them to the playoffs but they need to 

win consistently and against tougher 

opposition. 

But CSK has a vice-like grip on 

the rivalry in IPL, having won 14 

times and lost only 7 times against 

the Royals. One man who had played 

a crucial part in these victories is 

former Royals all-rounder Ravindra 

Jadeja. 

Jadeja impressed everyone with 

his all-round skills in the first two 

seasons while turning out for the 

Royals. This led to a controversial 

transfer to CSK, which resulted in 

the cricketer being banned for the 

2010 tournament. But Jadeja has 

been a force to reckon with for CSK 

from the 2011 season, winning the 

title twice with the team and being a 

part of the core CSK. 

He has been particularly good 

against his old side, picking up 16 

wickets in 14 matches against Royals 

at an average of 19. His strike-rate 

and average are the best against RR 

as compared to his performances 

against other teams. 

The left-arm spinner has picked 

up two 4-fors against the Royals and 

what more, he also has the number 

of RR’s key batsman Steve Smith, 

having dismissed the Aussie on 5 

occasions. Smith’s strike rate against 

Jadeja drops to 89 and he finds the 

going tough against the tweaker. 

He is the third most successful 

bowler in IPL against the Royals 

and come Tuesday, ‘Sir Jadeja’ will 

be looking to hurt his old team yet 

again. 

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The Indian Weekender, September 25, 2020

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