The Indian Weekender Friday, 23 October 2020

J011440
23 OCTOBER2020 • VOL 12 ISSUE 32
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Find out more at
wellington.govt.nz/diwali
Dr Gaurav Sharma created history by becoming the first ever
Pg 6
Indian-descent MP in NZ Parliament to win an electorate seat.
He was Labour candidate and contested from Hamilton West seat,
which was another blue seat that had turned red in the 2020 election.
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The Indian Weekender Friday, October 23, 2020
NEW ZEALAND 3
Kiwi voter the true hero of Election 2020
This is what 2020 looks like. The Kiwi voter knows it better than most
DEV NADKARNI
While the Labour Party has
been deservedly feted for its
unprecedented 2020 election
victory, it is the New Zealand voter who is the
true hero for crafting a result that goes well
beyond the power they gave Labour to govern
alone – in itself an absolute rarity in any MMP
system.
If you look beyond that absolute majority
for one party – which defeats the very purpose
of a system like MMP – it is clear that result
was no fluke but was thoughtfully crafted. By
none other than the New Zealand voter, giving
themselves a parliament that truly reflects
contemporary New Zealand.
Consider this:
New Zealand is the first self-governing
modern nation to have given women the right
to vote 107 years ago. Today, the newly formed
Parliament comprises 48 women.
In recent years a frequently heard lament
is the disengagement of young people from
politics. As if to address that issue, the Kiwi
voter has ensured 25 per cent of the Parliament
to be below the age of 40.
Despite handing a landslide win for
Labour making the party uncharacteristically
monolithic in a MMP system, the Kiwi voter
has ensured that three minor parties espousing
a diversity of values and agendas are in
Parliament (Greens, ACT and Maori Party).
In that sense the clever voter has kept alive
the spirit of MMP, giving a four-party system
for governance over the next three years.
With a strategic left/centre-left/indigenous
seat count of 76 in a 120-seat House and a 55
per cent collective vote share, the Kiwi voter
has deliberately left out the right/centre
right bloc collectively (National +
ACT) with just 43 seats and a 35
per cent vote share (all numbers
might change marginally in the
final count due November 6).
Most Kiwis voted
strategically enough to get three
minor parties in at the expense of
one major party, the National Party,
a clear no-confidence in that party’s
policies, programmes and leadership.
The Kiwi voter proved beyond doubt that
big dollar appeasement strategies don’t wash
as New Zealand First found out, being booted
out despite its much touted multi-billion dollar
Provincial Fund and with no one credible
in sight to succeed the charismatic
Winston Peters.
Most
Kiwis voted
strategically enough
to get three minor parties
in at the expense of one
major party, the National
Party, a clear no-confidence
in that party’s policies,
programmes and
leadership
The new Parliament comprises
11 per cent rainbow people
(world’s highest)
This Parliament is the
most ethnically diverse in
the country’s history with
the first ever Latin American,
African and Sri Lankan MPs.
Proudly for Kiwi-Indians,
it has the first ever Indian origin
electoral MP (though there have been
List MPs earlier).
Several MPs from the Pacific Islands, giving
island people their biggest ever presence of
elected representatives in the Labour party.
From post-election analyses it is evident that
many traditionally National voters, particularly
from the provincial and rural farming bloc,
having given up on National going by its
dismal polling all along, strategically voted for
Labour to give it an absolute majority to help
keep the Greens at bay, because of policies that
the agricultural sector perceives as too extreme
and radical.
There is no doubt that this result was a big
tick in confidence for Prime Minister Jacinda
Ardern’s leadership through the Covid-19
crisis – something that has made her a globally
feted personality.
Her popularity, halo or pixie dust as some
have put it would have been a challenge for any
opposing party to counter.
• Continued on Page 6
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4 NEW ZEALAND
Friday, October 23, 2020 The Indian Weekender
ELECTION OF FIR
electorate MP ma
SANDEEP SINGH FOR RNZ
rising political aspirations then the Kiwi-Indian
community has been left poorer after this
Like the rest of the nation, the Kiwi-
election.
Indian community is left stunned by
For at least the last three terms, the Kiwithe
dramatic electoral verdict that many
Indian community sent three co-ethnic MPs in
experts believe may have the potential to alter
the Parliament, via different political parties.
the future trajectory of New Zealand politics.
In 2017 the National Party had two Kiwi-
In the absence of any scientific poll or survey,
Indian MPs, Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi and Dr
there is always a challenge of accurately
Parmjeet Parmar, both based in Auckland,
assessing how the voting patterns within the
while the Labour Party had one Kiwi-Indian
community would have changed, if at all,
MP, Priyanca Radhakrishnan.
during this election.
In 2014, along with the two National MPs,
However, many in the community would
New Zealand First was able to bring a Kiwihave
voted to reward Prime Minister Jacinda
Indian MP into Parliament, perhaps setting an
Ardern’s stellar leadership in managing
expectation within the community that three
Covid-19 and keeping New Zealand safe - at
might be the new normal when it comes to
least for now.
having representation.
that has been instrumental in swinging many than dramatic. Immigration woes, particularly
The majority of the Kiwi-Indian voters
This election has only returned two Kiwiundecided
voters one way or the other.
those emanating from an absence of political
would not fall into the category of the so-called
Indian MPs - Radhakrishnan and the first-time
The personal popularity of Sir John Key decisiveness and clarity on the policy, and
“tactical voters” who, according to recent
Labour MP from Hamilton West, Dr Gaurav
was instrumental in swinging the community’s operational bungles, directly impact on the
commentators, are pointing out that some chose
Sharma.
votes towards the National Party away from real lives and futures of people within ethnic
to shift their votes tactically to the Labour Party,
Bakshi, who was the first India-born MP
the Labour Party, and it seems Ardern has migrant communities and can often influence
to deny the Green Party a stronger position in
of the NZ Parliament, along with Parmar,
decisively swung back those undecided voters votes of others within the community.
the new government.
who were both List MPs, are not returning to
within the Kiwi-Indian community towards In that regard, the latest election results
The Kiwi-Indian community clearly were not
Parliament post-election.
Labour in this election.
also have another stunning, if not dramatic,
facing any such dilemma, and their relationship Given the community has faced some significance for the Kiwi-Indian community.
Another stunning outcome is the election
with the Green Party remains - despite some
of the first-ever electorate Kiwi-Indian MP in
pressing issues in the last term - particularly Mixed bag of results for Kiwigrowing
interest in green politics in recent
Parliament - an outcome for which apparently
the immigration mess, where there was a
years - at best supremely indifferent.
Indian community
many within the community have been secretly
noticeable outrage because of a perceived
Traditionally, it has always been the
If the number of total co-ethnic MPs in hoping for many years. Sharma stormed home
sense of systemic bias on partnership visa
popularity and the charisma of party leaders
Parliament was any measure of a community’s on election night in Hamilton West.
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The Indian Weekender Friday, October 23, 2020
NEW ZEALAND 5
ST KIWI-INDIAN
rks a milestone
A small segment of the Kiwi-Indian
community have become disillusioned with the
system of list MPs in recent times, saying the
system did not allow the community to hold
their co-ethnic MPs to account.
Most within the community might not
necessarily share this pessimism.
It is unclear if that is because of their
enhanced awareness of the political process
within an immigrant-based multicultural
country, or pure indifference.
Political experts firmly believe that New
Zealand’s MMP system (which allows list MPs
in Parliament based on party vote share) is best
suited to bring forward the views of minorities,
including the ethnic migrant minority
community, in mainstream politics.
To what extent the success of electorate MP
Dr Sharma will transform the mutual relations
of “accountability and responsibility” between
the Kiwi-Indian community and their respective
co-ethnic MPs remains to be seen.
For now, this is indeed a step forward in
terms of the community’s overall engagement
and integration within every level of political
decision-making in this country.
Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi
LOST to Jenny Salesa
Panmure-Ōtāhuhu
WINNING CANDIDATE:
SALESA, Jenny: 16,784
2nd CANDIDATE:
BAKSHI, Kanwaljit Singh: 3,243
Auckland Diwali festival to light up region
IWK BUREAU
Auckland Diwali Festival to take place
from 27 October to 14 November and
the programme is now live.
More than 100 activities and experiences
taking place at numerous local venues across
the region.
The Auckland Diwali Festival is set to
light up communities across Auckland from
27 October to 14 November, with more than
100 activities and experiences taking place at
numerous local venues across the region.
Seven venues –
from Warkworth to Papatoetoe – will have
fuller programming featuring a mix of
cooking, dance and music workshops, panel
discussions, film nights, and activations
from sponsors.
A further 20 community venues regionwide
will host local workshops and
events, facilitated by Auckland Council
Community Venues.
The full line-up of free, familyfriendly
events and experiences at each venue
can be viewed at https://www.aucklandnz.com/
auckland-diwali-festival/festival-programmes
Auckland Mayor Phil Goff said he was
looking forward to Diwali, one of Auckland’s
most popular cultural festivals.
“The Diwali Festival is much loved by
Aucklanders and important to our diverse
communities,” he said.
“While COVID-19 precautions mean
that this year the festival won’t feature the
traditional gathering in Aotea Square, the more
than 100 events across the region will provide
ample opportunity to celebrate the Festival of
Lights with friends and family, while ensuring
that everyone stays safe.”
The Auckland Diwali Festival is delivered
by Auckland Tourism, Events & Economic
Development (ATEED) in collaboration with
Gaurav Sharma WON
against Tim Macindoe
Hamilton West
WINNING CANDIDATE:
SHARMA, Gaurav: 16,950
2nd CANDIDATE:
MACINDOE, Tim: 12,525
Auckland Council, with founding partner
Asia New Zealand Foundation and major
partner Harcourts.
ATEED Head of Major Events Richard
Clarke says this year’s festival provide more
ways for Aucklanders to enjoy this age-old
Indian celebration.
“While this year’s festival will be different,
it offers exciting new ways to enjoy Diwali
Festival and showcase Auckland’s vibrant
Indian communities. This year the programme
is much more focused on sharing knowledge
through cooking, dance and craft workshops
and engaging in important discussions, as well
as simply enjoying films, dance and music,”
says Clarke.
Highlights of the programme include a spice
market, art and light installations, competitions,
Dr Parmjeet Parmar
LOST to Michael Wood
Mt Roskill
WINNING CANDIDATE:
WOOD, Michael Philip: 17,356
2nd CANDIDATE:
PARMAR, Parmjeet: 7,842
a special Evening of Classical Indian Music,
and a Radio Tarana Bollywood Dance
Competition online. Auckland’s landmarks
will also be lighting up in celebration of Diwali,
including a rangoli-inspired show by Vector
Lights on the Auckland Harbour Bridge.
Seven much-loved films will be played
across key venues including Bride and the
Prejudice, Lion, Yesterday, and Life of Pi,
presented by ASB.
Three free-entry panel discussions will
explore women empowerment (Ellen Melville
Centre, 30 October), modern day arranged
marriages (Te Oro, Glen Innes, 31 October),
and being comfortable being Indian (Auckland
War Memorial Museum, 8 November).
Shining a light on traditional arts and
crafts will also be a key aspect of the daytime
Priyanca Radhakrishnan
LOST to Denise Lee
Maungakiekie
WINNING CANDIDATE:
LEE, Denise: 13,013
2nd CANDIDATE:
RADHAKRISHNAN, Priyanca: 12,433
programming, with workshops on making diya
lamps, colouring rangoli, DIY henna, classical
music, Bollywood and belly dance as well as
more contemporary Bollyrobix classes. Free
cooking classes and opportunities to enjoy chai
tea and Diwali sweets will also be on the menu.
In early September it was announced
the festival would change this year from
the usual format of a two-day event held in
central Auckland.
This decision was made following
consultation between ATEED and the
Diwali Advisory Group, which is comprised
of representatives from Auckland’s
Indian communities.
ATEED and the Advisory Group agreed
that it was best to deliver a festival that
could meet the guidelines of Alert Level 2 or
higher, if required.

6 NEW ZEALAND
Friday, October 23, 2020 The Indian Weekender
Why Dr Gaurav Sharma’s story is so
inspirational for new migrants in this country?
SANDEEP SINGH
The story of Dr Gaurav Sharma’s rise in New Zealand
parliament, which is indeed just a beginning yet, has so
much to inspire that it instantly connects with almost
every segment of the Kiwi-Indian community.
There is no escaping from the fact that every time a member
of the Kiwi-Indian community rises in politics and becomes
a Member of Parliament is a moment of pride and glory and
deserves an undiluted appreciation and celebration.
Be it the story of Labour Party’s recently re-elected member
of parliament Priyanca Radhakrishnan or National’s outgoing
MPs Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi or Dr Parmjeet Parmar, or former
MPs including New Zealand First’s Mahesh Bindra or Labour
Party’s Rajen Prasad, they all have been inspirational in many
different ways.
To be fair and respectful to all of them their individual
successes and subsequent contributions – if not in anything else
– then at least in instilling some self-belief within the community
have always been hugely appreciated.
In that regard, the inspiration from Gaurav Sharma’s rise in
politics is of the next level as it makes an instant connection with
everyone in the Kiwi-Indian community.
First and foremost is Gaurav Sharma’s solid
foundation in high-quality education.
It is important to note for people of Indian-descent – regardless
of their present countries of residence, one key defining element
is seeing - “education as the ladder of upward social mobility.”
For uninitiated, one of the very basic DNA of the entire Indian
diaspora all around the world is the special place of “education”
as the most valued “ladder for upward social mobility.”
It is almost an unwritten rule and aspirations within a large
segment of the Indian-descent people to provide best possible
education to their children in the hope that high-quality education
will lay the stepping stones for them to succeed in life.
In fact, a large number of members of the Indian diaspora
migrate to different parts of the world in pursuit of “better
education” for their children.
To give a context, for decades, India has been known as a
global powerhouse for producing world-class graduates, doctors,
engineers, and lately IT specialists and business professionals.
In that respect Sharma’s phenomenal educational background
as a child in Auckland Grammar School then as a medical
Kiwi voter the true
hero of Election 2020
• Continue from Page 3
However, the National Party’s fatal penchant
to jump from one major disaster to another with
metronomic regularity throughout Labour’s
first term added momentum to the Labour
juggernaut in no small measure.
A series of leadership changes, an exodus
of trusted old hands, messy exits, faulty policy
making, miscalculated projections left little
room for doubt in the mind of the voter.
To top it all was leader Judith Collins’
pronouncements and demeanour during the
debates and in public during the run up to the
polls would have made the decision that much
easier for several of the so-called ‘undecideds’. compassion and a well-meaning approach to the
While her ‘crusher’ leadership style has its future of the planet and our future generations.
votaries, it is clearly a shrinking number, as the Going forward, however, what the Kiwi
result has abundantly shown.
voter must now contend with is a monobloc
This new Parliament clearly reflects New government, never seen before in New
Zealand’s growing diversity today – a fact Zealand’s electoral history since MMP was
that was either lost on the National Party or adopted in the 1990s.
was deliberately ignored to please a certain
constituency.
The leadership has its
The Kiwi voter seems to have rejected work cut out
that narrow view of New Zealand rather To be inclusive in the exclusive mandate
resoundingly. Media pictures of the new that the Kiwi voter has given it, the challenge
Labour and National caucuses portrayed the is massive for Labour and its leadership –
difference tellingly. As one media commentator especially navigating the New Zealand ship
put it, the difference in the racial composition across choppy Covid-19 waters.
of the two was stark. New Zealand voters Though it is famously said a day is a very
have given themselves the opportunity to long time in politics, three years is not. The
hear from multiple voices and influences with clever Kiwi voter will be keenly watching.
the leadership that demonstrably believes in Dev Nadkarni is Founding Editor and
and stands for the values of inclusiveness, Editor-at-Large, The Indian Weekender
graduate in the University of Auckland and subsequent career
journey as a medical doctor and overseas assignments in
international institutions like World Health Organization and
United Nations is something that reverberates with every Kiwi-
Indian household.
This is an aspiration secretly shared in every Kiwi-Indian
household where parents work hard and strive to provide the best
possible education to their children and expect them to shine in
every aspect of their respective careers.
In appreciation of this basic social ethos of our Kiwi-Indian
community, the Indian Weekender had covered Gaurav Sharma
in 2015 in our 'Face of the Week' segment, long before he has
laid out his political ambitions in the open.
The story informs us that Sharma born in a place called
Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh, India, first arrived in NZ at
the age of twelve, almost twenty years ago, and quickly started
showing his talent in school and college education, which is
indeed inspirational for everyone.
Dr Gaurav Sharma’s CV minus his recent
political success alone will establish
chord with every house in Kiwi-Indian
for
decades, India
has been known as
a global powerhouse
for producing worldclass
graduates, doctors,
engineers, and lately IT
specialists and business
professionals.
community as a medical doctor (GP)
who has previously been involved in
public health, policy, medicine and
consulting in New Zealand, Spain,
USA, Nepal, Vietnam, Mongolia,
Switzerland and India.
He also has a Masters in Business
Administration from The George
Washington University in Washington DC
where he was a Fulbright Scholar.
The early struggles that new migrant
families face in this country
One another silent, but significant aspect of Sharma’s
inspirational story is the immense challenges that almost every
new ethnic minority migrant community faces in this country
– the story of financial struggles, the economic deprivation
and the will to survive against all odds in an altogether
foreign country.
In many interviews given to mainstream media, Sharma
has opened his heart and explained his deep connection
with Labour’s social justice movement emanating from
the perils of homelessness that his father had to endure
in early years of their settlement in this country
– something which most
members of Kiwi-Indian
community.
Nothing mentioned
above is to dilute
Sharma’s own
h a n d w o r k ,
diligence, passion
and commitment in
his life journey so
far, but to point the
fact that his entire
family’s story could
very easily resonate
with a lot of Kiwi-
Indian households.
There would be
many in the community
who would be inspired by
the arduous journey that
his new migrant family
has
endured in this
country.
successfully
NZ’s first ‘Diwali at the Mall’ event to be held in Wellington
RIZWAN MOHAMMAD
Wellingtonians will have the first-ever
opportunity of experiencing Diwali
celebrations in a shopping mall this
weekend.
Celebrations of major festivals like Christmas
and Easter in the shopping mall is quite a
global phenomenon, including in New Zealand,
however, getting Diwali to enter into shopping
mall will be something unique and reflective of
our growing diversity and multiculturalism.
Ekta New Zealand – a prominent community
organisation, based in Wellington is leading a
community effort in organising first of a kind
“Diwali at the Mall” at North City Shopping
Centre in Porirua, Wellington.
Speaking to the Indian Weekender Sonam
Srivastava, Ekta’s project lead for the “Diwali
at the Mall” event said “this is the first time that
a Diwali event is being held at a mall anywhere
in Wellington. And this is significant. It is a
reflection of how the country is becoming more
accepting of the diversity that currently exists.
We can celebrate and partake in each other’s
festivals.”
Sonam further added that the two-day event
at the North City mall would allow shoppers
to experience different facets of the festival
of Diwali including dance, music, food and
colourful decoration and perhaps participate in
the activities too in the mall.
“We, in Ekta, think that greater unity or
Ekta can be achieved when we are able to
have shared experiences, and it is this shared
experience that is underlying our celebration,”
Sonam added.
North City mall will have a large rangoli made
for people to see, sweets will be distributed for
shoppers, children will be able to participate in
Diwali themed activities, women can do Henna,
there will be actual diyas (lamps) to light and
take photos and lucky draws on both days.
In addition to the activity list at the mall
event, there will also be saree draping for
women, turban draping for all visitors, taking
pictures, create rangolis and fun activity for
every shopper who wants to participate in the
festival.
The event will be held on Saturday and
Sunday, October 24 and 25 from 12 p.m. to 2
p.m. but the decorations will be for entire two
days at the mall.
“Diwali at the Mall is about empowering the
community and contributing to building a more
inclusive New Zealand.
“This event will lead up to the massive
annual Wellington Diwali Festival at TSB Bank
Arena, Shed 6 and Queens Wharf on Sunday,
October 25,” Sonam added.
The event is supported by North City Mall,
Kiwi Community Assistance and Nikau
Foundation, and there will be volunteers with
Koha boxes at the mall during the event.
Among the dignitaries who will be attending
the launch will be former Governor-General of
NZ, Sir Anand Satyanand, High Commissioners
of India, Malaysia, Singapore and Malaysia,
the Mayor of Porirua, the Director of Office of
Ethnic Communities and local Iwi elders and
leaders.

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AND SHED 6,
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3PM–8.30PM
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Find out more at
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J011440

The Indian Weekender Friday, October 23, 2020
NEW ZEALAND 9
Mayur Dance Academy to perform at
Wellington Diwali Festival’s opening ceremony
RIZWAN MOHAMMAD
The excitement for Diwali season will
begin with the Wellington Diwali
Festival, which is happening in the
capital city over the labour weekend.
One of the leading dance schools of Indian
cultural dances from Wellington, Mayur
Dance Academy is expressing rejoice for the
opportunity to perform at the official opening
ceremony at the Wellington Diwali Festival.
The festival has survived the Covid scare
that has disrupted and cancelled many major
cultural events all around the country, courtesy
to the zeal of the Wellington Council to deliver
an opportunity to Wellingtonians to celebrate in
this unusual year and the meticulous planning
of the production team to hold the festival
under Alert Level 1.
Wellingtonians are in for a treat this
Sunday as Wellington Diwali kicks off with
an impressive display of light, music, food,
cultural performances and end with fireworks.
The Indian Weekender spoke with Mayur
Dance Academy founder Suparna Basu who
was enthralled to share her excitement for
bringing four slots of performances on the
Diwali stage this Sunday at Wellington Diwali
Festival.
Suparna Basu, a trained classical Indian dance
master, also told the Indian Weekender that her
students have been performing for all eight
years of Wellington Diwali Festival.
Her school is known for teaching classical
Indian dance forms such as Bharatnatyam,
Kathak, Bollywood to dance and music
enthusiasts, especially young Kiwi Indians in
the Wellington region.
“We have been part of the Diwali festival for
eight years now and have entertained the crowd
with the richness of Indian classical dance and
music.
“This year, Mayur Dance Academy students
OPINION: Did National ever have a 'plan' for this election?
SANDEEP SINGH
National Party will undoubtedly be
on a soul-searching introspection
mission soon. However, the first thing
that it could do well now, is to acknowledge
the grim reality that it never “had a plan” for
this election.
The “plan” that National’s campaign
messages were trumpeting loud and
boisterously in the lead up to the election - was
for a supposed economic recovery - from the
current downturn that the country was facing
because of Covid-infliction disruptions.
Surprisingly, there was no “plan” to deal with
the continuously rising popularity of Prime
Minister Jacinda Ardern, which has further
risen after New Zealand’s success in managing
the impact of public health pandemic.
Instead, the party had remained either
delusional or distracted or just not bothered
with Prime Minister Ardern’s continuously
rising popularity.
Contrary to 2017, it was not the “stardust” that
the National had then chosen to contemptuously
define and subsequently ignore, and just been
hoping that it will automatically recede by the
time of next election when it will supposedly
fail to deliver many of their aspirational goals.
It was merely wishful thinking, which clearly
had not unfolded as per the party’s hopes.
In the lead up to 2020 election, what National
was facing was not mere “stardust” of an
untested, freshly minted, a seemingly woke and
glamorous leader, who was anointed out of turn
within her party to turn around its fortunes.
Rather Ardern had transcended into a truly
popular leader who had been at the helm of
will be opening the event that will be followed
with the formal ceremony of the festival with
dignitaries and guests,” Suparna Basu said.
The dance group in the past has performed
at the parliament, Holi festival, temples,
Diwali celebrations of Indian associations
and community groups, and give an annual
production event for the dance school every
year.
Ms Basu adds that this year, 42 of near
200 students of Mayur Dance Academy will
be performing at the Diwali stage and their
National Party Leader Judith Collins (Photo Courtesy- RNZ / Samuel Rillstone)
affairs for one full term, led the nation through
some shocking crisis in a never-seen-before,
kind and compassionate style of leadership,
and maintained at least an economic status-quo
right till the Covid disruptions - if that gives
some assurance to National’s normal supporters
- and yet was popular.
National seems to have been misled by a
selective line of commentary appearing within
some sections of the media, which argued
that Ardern’s recent popularity was at best
erroneous, and an infatuation of “fear-stricken”
people who have been scared out of their
lives because of the manner of government’s
covid management.
While nothing wrong in such media
commentaries, despite reflecting upon the
intelligence level of the public a bit poorly,
it is for the political parties and their “thinktanks”
to know how best to process such
selective analyses.
Often, such passionate yet selective
performances will have three different forms of
classical, and one Bollywood dance.
“We have two groups of 12, one of eight
and another ten who will perform at the Diwali
event this weekend.
“Our students are very excited to be a part
of this years’ event as this is their first big
stage performance in the last eight months as
evidently, most of the events were cancelled or
postponed due to Covid-19 this year,” Ms Basu
added.
She says the students have been rehearsing
commentaries have to be reconciled with more
divergent-assessments of the same political
realities, to have a more comprehensive
understanding of complex challenges.
In politics, one is doomed to fail, if they
take a myopic view of any issue or challenge,
and National’s view of the political challenge
ahead, particularly ever since the Covid had
hit upon us was extremely myopic and a recipe
for disaster.
The National Party had clearly underestimated
Ardern’s massive popularity and never had
a “plan” to deal with a first-term popular
Prime Minister.
This was also an outcome of the party’s
failure in comprehending the electoral outcome
of 2017 elections and coming to terms to the
new reality of sitting in opposition, despite then
being the single largest party in the parliament.
The party had since then been living in
their own little world with a false self-entitled
view that it deserved to be in the government
for their performances for six weeks now, and
each of the performances will be something
fresh, new, and diverse to offer.
About Wellington Diwali Festival 2020
The Wellington Diwali Festival of 2020
will be unique is it is the only Diwali event in
New Zealand which will be held on a massive
scale with the expectation of the attendance of
thousands at the venues.
The event does not just offer great music,
exhilarating performances and festive
ambience but also lip-smacking snacks from
different corners of India, beverages, activities
such as Henna, art, craft and clothing stalls
etc. Not to forget, the event will be concluded
with a spectacular firework to be seen on the
waterfront.
The event starts at 3 p.m. and ends with the
fireworks at 8:30 p.m.
and not in the opposition trenches, and hence
completely underestimating the difficult
path ahead.
The journey from the opposition
trenches to power in government
is arduous most of the times.
Some of the glaring failures within the
coalition government such as in housing,
Kiwibuild, Light-rail, etc had only been
enhancing National’s self-entitled view in
the last term that this election will be for the
government to lose, and not the opposition
to win.
That explains, no serious brainstorm within
the party in the last term, about the future of
political and financial-conservatism in this
country, as it wished to reap the benefits of the
dominance of the so-called Key-English era in
NZ politics.
The party failed to foresee that the country
had very swiftly entered into Jacinda Ardernera
in politics and had neither any appreciation
and nor any plan on how to sail through this
new era of politics.
What Nats had at best offered in this election,
was incessant attacks on the government, which
were often baseless and unsubstantiated, and
a demonstration of an abject lack of political
large-heartedness – something that was
completely antithetical to Jacinda Ardern style
of politics.
An honest acknowledgement of this
seemingly simple, but a glaring error, will
allow the party an honest introspection and put
it quickly on a path to recovery and possibly
road to power sooner, than what may appear
from the latest electoral drubbing.

10 NEW ZEALAND
Friday, October 23, 2020
The Indian Weekender
Kiwi Indian entrepreneur to launch one-stopmultiple
services based mobile app ‘Run4Me’
RIZWAN MOHAMMAD
A
Kiwi
Indian IT engineer and
entrepreneur based in Auckland is
launching New Zealand’s first and
perhaps only online-based multiple services
mobile app and website.
Suresh Mogili, an IT engineer with a
speciality in hardware such as mobile, computer
and electronic items, had been exploring for a
business idea using his talents in computers and
its applications.
During his research, Suresh came across the
idea for an app and website that serves multiple
purposes for a consumer from one platform.
Delving further into developing this concept,
Suresh found that there are several companies
or apps that offer different services but not a
simple platform that brings various services to
one place, like a one-stop-shop solution.
Introducing e-commerce platform
‘Run4Me’, a specialized app and website for
online essentials sales, and deliveries all over
New Zealand, rideshare for passenger and also
other services involved in one place.
Speaking about his start-up, entrepreneur
Suresh Mogili says Run4Me is one of a kind
designed to provide benefits to both businesses/
vendors and consumers alike.
“Run4me will benefit businesses and
vendors, increase sales, keep the businesses
busy as we promote partnering businesses on
our platform, watch the orders come in through
doors online, reach more customers, attract new
local customers and keep them coming back for
more,” Suresh said.
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The website and app for a start will have
delivery services such as food, alcohol,
groceries including fruits, All meat, medicines,
baby products, paper bags for a retail business
with Run4Me branding and courier services to
deliver them on the same day.
Suresh adds that all products will be sold
online or through the app as listed on Run4me,
and the customers will have the liberty to
choose whatever categories they want on the
app.
Other services include taxi (rideshare)
services, hotel or backpacker bookings, packers
and movers, labour supply for companies, car
rentals and hiring drivers, all on one platform.
For listing on the app, Suresh says the host
will have best charges for businesses compared
to the ones offered in the market, will have the
best payout for drivers and attractive prices,
discounts and promotions for consumers
buying products or services from Run4Me.
Suresh says that concerning deliveries of
products and services; he already has a fleet of
vehicles owned and branded Run4Me with over
200 drivers registered in Auckland, Wellington,
Christchurch and a few other cities around New
Zealand.
Run4me is tying up with companies in retail
and food sector such as restaurants takeaways,
grocery, meat, alcohol retailer etc. and also act
as their delivery partner to get the products or
services delivered to their doorsteps safely and
on time.
“We have special services for businesses
such as take orders from phone calls from
customers, do delivery for them at minimal
cost, use dedicated drivers for phone call orders,
businesses can request multi-deliveries at the
same time, add multi-branches on Run4Me
and also add their other business with the same
registered account number,” Suresh said.
Marketing the to be launched e-commerce
site, Suresh said he would be doing nationallevel
marketing which will be nearly costless
for businesses registered with Run4Me as
vendors, take a nominal commission to support
local enterprises make more sales.
“Businesses will have no registration charges
and will not be limited with term contracts and
will have the liberty to terminate the services
with Run4Me, their special offers will run
on Run4Me through its social media handles
such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and will
be provided with tablets to selected registered
businesses,” Suresh added.
People can use the new exciting venture in
the market on their Facebook page, https://
www.facebook.com/Run4Me.World/.
Website: www.run4me.world

The Indian Weekender Friday, October 23, 2020
NEW ZEALAND 11
Man served trespassing notice by police
after suspicious activity at a mosque
RIZWAN MOHAMMAD
A
44-year-old man from
Whangarei has been served
with a trespass notice by
New Zealand Police for acting
suspiciously at a mosque and Islamic
centre in central Auckland region.
The incident is said to have
occurred on Friday, October 2 under
Covid Alert Level 2 restrictions
when a man carrying a bag visited
the Islamic centre complex and input
fake name, contact and incorrect
time in the Covid tracer sheet of the
centre.
He was attended by one of the
mosque members who greeted and
asked him how he could be helped,
to which he presented a strange story
to the centre attendee.
Suspicion arose when the mosque
member noted the incorrect time of
visit mentioned on the Covid tracer
sheet.
“The individual presented
a strange story, said he was a
convert and became aggressive and
argumentative,” Abdul Latif, FIANZ
Security Director told The Indian
Weekender.
Later the same day, the man
went to a mosque on the same road
approximately half a kilometre away
RIZWAN MOHAMMAD
Immigration New Zealand has
announced that the selection
of Expression of Interests for
residence class visas under the
Skilled Migrant Category for offshore
applicants have been deferred
for another six months
“The deferral of the Expression of
Interests (EOI) is a measure assists
Immigration New Zealand (INZ)
to focus on processing applications
from people in New Zealand or
eligible to travel here while border
restrictions are in place,” INZ said.
The decision to restart the selection
of EOIs will be reviewed in 2021,
Immigration New Zealand notified.
EOIs for Parent Visa has also been
Mosque Scare- CAPTION- Referencei only
from where he was attended by a
member of the Mosque and on being
spoken to, presented another strange
story.
The man visited in the afternoon
time, just after the Friday mass
congregational prayers were held.
“Again, at the mosque, the man
speaking agitatedly, and became
dismissive of any questions posed
to him or being asked his purpose of
visiting the mosque,” Mr Latif added.
Due to his suspicious behaviour
at the mosque, he was asked what
he was carrying in his bag, which he
Selection of EOIs for residence class
visas delayed by another six months
put off for six months
The expression of interest for
residence class visas under parent
category also stands extended
for six months as per the latest
announcement by Immigration New
Zealand.
The government, earlier in April
during the first wave of Covid-19
and Alert Level 4 lockdown in New
Zealand had suspended a number
of visa programmes that included
selection for EOIs in the SMC and
Parent Category.
It was then said to be a temporary
measure taken under special
circumstances of Covid-19 outbreak
in the country and was supposed to
be reassessed by INZ as the situation
developed.
refused to answer or get checked by
the mosque member.
The attendee was soon approached
by two other members of the Mosque
greeting him in Arabic ‘Assalam
Alaikum’ that translates to ‘peace
be upon you’ to which the visitor
became further enraged and started
arguing on the greeting saying the
mosque members are trying to get rid
of him.
The man hastily left the premises
and police were called to the mosque.
Upon narrating the whole incident
to the police, both at the Islamic
Indian PM Narendra Modi congratulates
Jacinda Ardern on her landslide election victory
RIZWAN MOHAMMAD
Indian Prime Minister Narendra
Modi has congratulated New
Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda
Ardern on her landslide election
victory last night.
PM Modi in a tweet this afternoon
recalled meeting PM Ardern in New
York last year and extended his
compliments for her victory.
“My heartiest congratulations to
the PM of New Zealand Jacinda
Ardern on her resounding victory.
“Recall our last meet a year ago
and look forward to working together
for taking India-NZ relationship to a
higher level,” PM Modi tweeted.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on
Saturday won a landslide victory in
Centre and the Mosque- police were
able to identify the man, questioned
his purpose of visit at the mosque and
served a trespass notice from visiting
the premises in the future.
“Police has identified and located
the man who visited the mosque. He
has subsequently been trespassed
from the premises.
“We thank the member of our
community who brought this to
police’s attention. We encourage
anyone who witnesses suspicious
activity to report this to police,” a
police spokesperson investigating the
incident told The Indian Weekender.
FIANZ Security Director Abdul
Lateef said it is important for
members of the community to stay
vigilant and report any suspicious
activities around mosques or
religious places.
“My advisory was designed to
ensure vigilance on arrival and
departing the Masjid, questioning
anyone whom people are unfamiliar
with (before they get inside the
Masjid) and about calling 111 if there
is a serious concern,” Abdul Lateef
said.
Mr Lateef further added that two
days prior to the Auckland event,
an individual was seen at the same
mosque car park trying car windows
the general elections securing her a
second term in office.
Labour leader Jacinda Ardern
said the next government would be
and mosque authorities were alerted,
but the person was able to evade
before being apprehended.
He added that it is not sure if the
two incidents were related, but the
community members have to remain
alert and report any suspicious
activities in or around mosques.
Mr Lateef also said that there had
been a few mental health-related
incidents at some mosques around
New Zealand.
A person was apprehended and
handed over to the police from a
mosque in Manawatu earlier last
month as he visited the centre and
created an aggravated situation
amongst mosque members and
visitors.
He was later found to have mental
health issues and had checked
himself out from a psychiatric ward
of a hospital in the region. He was
handed to the police for his and
public safety.
Since this incident has happened,
FIANZ through its Security Advisory
wing has conveyed a message across
all mosques and Islamic centres
through different mediums to remain
alert of any suspicious activities
or visits by unknown persons at
mosques or mosque premises in New
Zealand.
formed within the next few weeks,
and with 64 seats, Labour will be the
first party able to govern alone since
MMP was introduced in 1996.
Slow down, buckle up, and plan ahead for a safe Labour Day weekend
IWK BUREAU
New Zealand Police and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport
Agency are asking Kiwis to plan ahead, slow down, and
buckle up for a safe 2020 Labour Day long weekend.
“Many roads around the country are likely to be very busy
before and during the long weekend, and we’re anticipating
high volumes of traffic on many state highways and local roads.
Congestion and some delays are inevitable in peak times, but
if everyone leaves plenty of time for their journey, drives to the
conditions and plans ahead before leaving home, the worst of
the frustrations can be eased and everyone can concentrate on
arriving safely at their destination,” says Greg Lazzaro, Waka
Kotahi General Manager Safety, Health and Environment.
NZ Police Acting Superintendent Gini Welch says buckling
up and driving at a safe speed are two ‘must-dos’ for safe
holiday journeys.
“The biggest life saver you have in your vehicle is your right
foot. That foot controls your speed and your braking.
Just like physics teaches us, the faster you’re going, the
greater the impact. So less speed, means less harm,” says
Acting Superintendent Welch.
“The next biggest life saver you have is your seatbelt.
If something goes wrong, that belt could save your life.
“This is our first long weekend since June, and with travel
restricted to our own backyard there will be more traffic on our
roads. More traffic means more risk, just by sheer volume.
So it’s even more important to remember the safety basics
like wear your seatbelt and drive to the conditions.
“You don’t need to drive right up to the speed limit.
If the road is wet or windy, slow down.
And if you’re in traffic, it’s just as important to watch your
speed and your following distance from the car in front.
You need to give yourself space to react if something goes
wrong up ahead.”
Greg Lazzaro says travel may be more spread out across the
country this year with holiday makers taking the opportunity
to have a longer break either side of Labour Day weekend and
exploring different regions to normal.
“Leaving at non-peak hours can make travel safer, less
stressful and more enjoyable. You can plan ahead for a safe,
enjoyable Labour Day weekend with the help of our on-line
holiday journeys map.”
The holiday journeys map shows predicted traffic flow across
popular journeys over the Labour Day weekend on popular
holiday travel routes based on previous years travel patterns.
Because predicted peak times can change based on incidents,
weather and even driver behaviour, check our real time Journey
Planner for latest traffic and travel information before you head
off. Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency’s Journey Planner is
a great tool to help you plan your trip with real time travel
information, traffic cameras, and updates on delays, roadworks
and road closures just before you head off.

27 Oct–14 Nov
Festival
of Lights
Discover the full
festival line-up at
aucklandnz.com/diwali
Major Partner
Sponsors
Foundation Partner

Ellen Melville Centre
Activity Guide
2 Freyberg Place, Auckland CBD Friday 30 October
Warkworth Town Hall
Activity Guide
2 Alnwick Street, Warkworth Friday 30 October
Time
Activity
Time
Activity
9am - 12pm
Rangoli Chalk It Up artists
10am - 5pm
Kids rangoli & colouring competition
10am - 5pm
Harcourts House of Rangoli: Kids rangoli & colouring competition
10am - 5pm
DIY Henna designs
10am - 5pm
DIY Henna designs
10am - 5pm
Learn how to wear a Saree and try one on
10am - 5pm
Learn how to wear a Saree and try one on
10am - 5pm
Try some chai station
10am - 12pm
Friendship bracelet and anklet making by Papaya Stories
5pm - 6pm
Introduction to classical music with Sargam School of Music
12pm - 1pm
Bollywood dance workshop for all ages with Khottey Sikkey
7pm - 10pm
ASB Presents: Lion
1 pm- 2pm Bollyrobix
1pm - 2pm
2pm - 4pm
4pm - 9pm
6:30pm - 7:30pm
8:30pm - 10pm
Introduction to classical music with Sargam School of Music
Cooking Class
Chai tea & Diwali sweets
Panel discussion: Women Empowerment
ASB Presents: The Lunchbox
Getting here:
Check Journey Planner for public transport options.
Getting here:
Car parks available near Ellen Melville Centre.
Check Journey Planner for public transport options.
Mobility parking is available on High Street.
Avondale Community Centre
Activity Guide
99 Rosebank Road, Avondale Saturday 31 October
Te Oro, Glen Innes
Activity Guide
98 Line Road, Glen Innes Saturday 31 October
Time
12pm - 1pm
12pm - 2pm
Activity
Belly Dance for Beginners with Phoenix
Kids rangoli & colouring competition
Time
10am - 8pm
10am - 2pm
10am - 11am
Activity
Art Exhibition by Shruti Yatri
Spice Market by Spice Land
Sound Meditation by Papaya Stories
12pm - 4pm
Papaya Stories Bracelet and Anklet making
10am - 11am
Classical fusion dance for beginners by Sanskriti
1pm - 6pm
2pm - 3pm
2pm - 4pm
3pm- 4pm
Snakes and Ladders interactive game
Urban desi hip-hop dance workshop with The Disciples
Make a diya lamp with The ReCreators
Modern classical fusion dance workshop with A Touch of Bollywood
11am- 12pm
1pm - 2pm
1pm - 5pm
2pm - 3pm
2pm - 3pm
Sri Lankan dance workshop by NZSL Studio
Learn to make traditional sweets: Rava Appam
Harcourts House of Rangoli: Kids rangoli & colouring competition
Learn how to make traditional snacks: Carrot Halwa
Bollywood dance basics with Raul and Rian
5pm - 6pm
Bollywood dance workshop for all ages with Khottey Sikkey
3pm - 4pm
Learn to make Bhel Puri - Bombay street food
5pm - 7pm
5:30pm - 7:30pm
6pm - 7pm
Cooking Class
Feed the Streets
Kirtan music set by Part and Parcel
4pm - 5pm
3pm - 4pm
3pm - 4pm
4pm - 5pm
Learn to make Lemon Rice and Pakora
Introduction to classical music with Sargam School of Music
Bhangra fusion workshop with Garagewalas
BollyGarba fusion workshop with Desibeat
8pm - 10pm
ASB Presents: Million Dollar Arm
4pm - 8pm
Outdoor DJ
6:30pm - 7:30pm
Panel discussion: Modern Day Arranged Marriages
Getting here:
Limited car parks available surrounding Avondale
Community Centre. Check Journey Planner for
public transport options. Mobility parking is available
behind the Avondale Library Centre.
8pm - 8:30pm
8:30pm - 10pm
Getting here:
Pre-film entertainment
ASB Presents: Bride & Prejudice
Limited car parks available on the streets surrounding
Te Oro. Check Journey Planner for public transport
options. Mobility parking is available on Line Road.

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
Editorial
Significance of
‘Quad’ group
affirmed: India
invites Australia
to join Malabar
naval exercise
In a message to China on getting a wider footprint in the Indo-Pacific region, India
invited Australia to take part in an annual naval drill -- Malabar Exercise -- in the
Indian Ocean region along with the US and Japan to which Australia has agreed.
The Indo-Pacific region is seen from the west coast of India to the US.
It is for the first time that all the ‘Quad’ countries - an informal security forum
comprising India, the US, Japan and Australia - will be part of Malabar exercise
scheduled next month.
Speculation is rife about whether this group of four countries will play a bigger role as
a counter to Chinese assertiveness.
It is important to note that till a year back, it was said that India was very cautious
about doing anything that might upset China, especially since the Wuhan Summit.
But, much has changed in the one year since, especially recently as Indo-China tensions
escalated with the standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and culminated in
the Galwan Valley clash in mid-June.
Confirming the Australian Navy’s participation in the Malabar series, the Indian
Defence Ministry in a statement on Monday said: “India seeks to increase cooperation
with other countries in the maritime security domain and in the light of increased defence
cooperation with Australia, Malabar 2020 will see the participation of the Australian
Navy.”
The Malabar series of naval exercises started in 1992 as a bilateral India-US naval
exercise. Japan joined it in 2015.
This annual exercise has been conducted off the coast of Guam in the Philippines Sea
in 2018, off the coast of Japan in 2019 and is expected to be held in the Bay of Bengal
and the Arabian Sea later this year.
This year, the exercise has been planned in a ‘non-contact-at sea’ format. The exercise
will strengthen the coordination between the navies of the participating countries.
The participants in the exercise are engaging to enhance safety and security in the
maritime domain.
“They collectively support free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific and remain committed
to a rules based international order,” the ministry said.
Earlier this year, the Indian Navy had conducted exercises with Russia and the ‘Quad’
countries.
The Indian Navy had carried out a three-day bilateral maritime exercise with Japan
in the north Arabian Sea from September 26, 2020 to September 28. It was the fourth
edition of the India-Japan Maritime bilateral exercise JIMEX, which is conducted
biennially.
The Australian Navy and the Indian Navy carried out a passage exercise in the East
Indian Ocean Region on September 23 and 24. The exercise involved the participation
of HMAS Hobart from the Australian side and Indian naval ships Sahyadri and Karmuk.
In addition, an Indian maritime patrol aircraft and helicopters from both sides carried
out coordinated exercises.
A bilateral maritime exercise took place between the Indian and Russian navies in the
Bay of Bengal on September 4 and 5. The exercise is known as ‘Indra Navy’ and was
the 11th edition.
Indian Navy units undertook Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with units of the US Nimitz
Carrier Strike Group as they transited through the Indian Ocean region on July 20.
23 October – 29 October 2020
Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thu
On-and-off
rain and
drizzle
16°
9°
Partly
sunny
15°
8°
17°
9°
Indian Weekender : Volume 12 Issue 32
Publisher: Kiwi Media Publishing Limited
Content Editor: Sandeep Singh | sandeep@indianweekender.co.nz
Chief Reporter: Rizwan Mohammad | rizwan@indianweekender.co.nz
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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
14°
10°
A touch o
dafr
This week in New Zealand’s history
25 October 1971
End of the line for steam railways
15°
10°
Copyright 2020. Kiwi Media Publishing Limited. All Rights Reserved.
Sunshine
and pactcy
clouds
16°
9°
A few
morning
showers
The Christchurch–Dunedin overnight express, headed by a JA-class locomotive, ran the last
scheduled steam-hauled service on New Zealand Railways (NZR), bringing to an end 108
years of regular steam rail operations in this country.
26 October 1942
Women Jurors Act allows women to sit on juries
The Act provided for women aged between 25 and 60 to have their names placed on the jury
list on the same basis as men – if they so desired.
27 October 1943
First opposed New Zealand landing since Gallipoli
Troops of 8 Brigade, 3 New Zealand Division, landed on Mono, one of the Treasury Islands
in the Solomons group, to help clear it of Japanese forces. This was the first opposed landing
by New Zealand troops since Gallipoli in 1915 (see 25 April).
28 October 1835
He Whakaputanga signed by northern chiefs
Thirty-four northern chiefs signed He Whakaputanga o te Rangatiratanga o Nu Tireni (the
Declaration of Independence of the United Tribes of New Zealand) at a hui called by the
British Resident, James Busby.
29 October 1894
SS Wairarapa wrecked on Great Barrier Island
It remains the third deadliest shipwreck ever in New Zealand waters: 121 lives were lost when
the steamer Wairarapa struck Miners Head, the north-west point of Great Barrier Island, 90
km north-east of Auckland.
29 October 1919
Women can stand for Parliament
On 29 October 1919, the Women’s Parliamentary Rights Act passed into law. Finally, women
could stand for election to the House of Representatives.
15°
9°

The Indian Weekender Friday, October 23, 2020 FIJI 15
PM reaffirms Fiji’s
commitment to NZ
Prime Minister Voreqe
Bainimarama says Fiji looks
forward to enhancing its
bilateral engagements with New
Zealand and in advancing regional
and global issues of common
interests to both countries.
He made the comments in his
congratulatory message to NZ Prime
Minister Jacinda Ardern, for the
historic victory in general elections.
Bainimarama says Fiji and NZ
share strong bonds of friendship.
He reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment
to work closely with NZ to
deepen bilateral relations and
strengthen the solidarity of the Blue
Pacific continent.
The Head of the Fijian
Government said that through the
strong leadership of Ardern, the
Pacific region will together become
stronger and more resilient when
overcoming the unprecedented
challenges currently faced globally.
The Prime Minister conveyed the
Fijian Government’s and the people
of Fiji’s best wishes to Ardern for her
re-election as the Prime Minister of
New Zealand and wished her every
success in her new term.
Fiji still keen for 'bula bubble'
with New Zealand and Australia
Fiji's government is pressing
ahead with its 'Bula Bubble'
for New Zealand and Australia
despite the two countries opting to
resume travel elsewhere.
The newly-appointed Cook Islands
Prime Minister Mark Brown said he
expects quarantine-free travel
with New Zealand to be in place
by December.
New Zealand's Prime Minister
said she expects her country will
soon be in a position to open up to the
Cook Islands.
Fiji Prime Minister Frank
Bainimarama said his country is
committed to making the 'Bula
Bubble' work with its major partners
in the region.
"Given that Fiji is Covidcontained,
given we have gone more
than 170 days without a new case of
the virus, given the exemplary job we
have done at managing our border
and given the economic urgency of
resuming flows of two-way trade
and tourism, we are keen to see
those discussions advance past the
exploratory phase and on to practical
progress as soon as possible."
Addressing retailers in Suva this
week, the prime minister assured the
business community the government
is in discussion with its regional
"border
closures
had cut off the flow
of revenue and the
ripple effects have
been felt across
every industry in
Fiji." He said Fijian
businesses are
suffering due to the
pandemic
development partners on resuming
travel. Bainimarama said Fiji was
expecting nearly one million visitors
to its shores this year.
But he said due to the Coronavirus,
"border closures had cut off the flow
of revenue and the ripple effects
have been felt across every industry
in Fiji." He said Fijian businesses are
Fiji Is Covid-Free, Confirms Dr Fong
Acting Permanent Secretary
for the Ministry of Health
and Medical Services, Dr
James Fong, has confirmed that the
two remaining COVID-19 patients
that were in isolation at the Lautoka
Hospital have been cleared of the
virus and discharged.
He confirmed that as of yesterday,
there was no active case of the virus
in the country.
“Today (yesterday) is day one that
we as a nation are without any active
case of COVID-19,” Dr Fong said.
“The remaining two patients had
been cleared on October 13 from the
Lautoka isolation facility and as of
today (yesterday) there are no cases
in isolation as they have all recovered
and cleared.
“We are happy that we are finally
able to discharge the last two cases
on Monday.”
Dr Fong has requested the public
to maintain vigilance and continue to
adhere to COVID-19 State measures
in place.
“We need to understand that
the risk still remains but they are
mitigated by our strong quarantine
measures.
“Fiji still faces the threat of the
introduction of COVID-19 into
the country and in order for Fiji to
survive we must allow our citizens
to come back and we need to allow
people who facilitate economic
recovery to come back.”
NZ Defence training team gets underway in Fiji
A
combined
training team from the New Zealand Defence
Force (NZDF) and Ministry of Defence will this week
begin working alongside Fijian counterparts in areas
ranging from basic hydrography to advanced combat first aid
as part of a new training initiative in the Pacific Island nation.
This is the first time that such a large group has deployed
to Fiji to team up to train, coach, mentor and embed alongside
military and defence counterparts.
Defence Advisor to Fiji Lieutenant Colonel Josh Wineera
said the COVID-19 environment had required a rethink of
engagement with military partners, particularly in the Pacific.
“The NZDF has well established health protocols and we
have reassured the Fijian Ministry of Health that our deploying
personnel will abide by regulations to ensure the safety of the
Fijian public,” LTCOL Wineera said.
“We have achieved two military activities this year that
have taken into account Fiji’s COVID-19 regulations. The first
was when Royal New Zealand Air Force aircraft delivered
humanitarian aid after Tropical Cyclone Harold in April and
suffering due to the pandemic.
Bainimarama said in particular the
"small businesses have bore a heavy
burden". He said the government had
expressed its interest to New Zealand
to resume regular travel.
However Bainimarama said until
Fiji's border reopens, "most business
revenues will not be what they used
to".
Meanwhile, last week, the
Australian government announced it
had finalised a deal for a limited
travel bubble across the Tasman that
would allow people to travel from
New Zealand to New South Wales
and the Northern Territory states
quarantine-free from 16 October.
But the New Zealand PM said
her country is still not ready to have
quarantine-free travel.
then in July, HMNZS OTAGO carried out a ‘no-contact’ fuel
stop while the ship was conducting joint fishery patrols with the
Fiji Navy,” he said.
“This combined training team represents the first faceto-face
contact between our nations this year and clearly
demonstrates the trust between our two militaries in
partnering for essential training.
"Working with our counterparts and growing capability
is something we really enjoy doing. We’re very pleased to
We owe a lot to our front-line heroes
to keep Fiji COVID-Contained – PM
Prime Minister, Voreqe
Bainimarama says with
global coronavirus infections
surpassing 40 million, most people
on earth live under constant threat of
infection from the deadly coronavirus
but fortunately that is not in Fiji.
While speaking to the frontline
workers at Nadi International
Airport today, Bainimarama says our
success in dealing with COVID-19
is owed to our nurses, doctors, lab
technicians and the members of our
disciplined forces who have kept Fiji
COVID-Contained.
Bainimarama says this pandemic
is the most sudden and devastating
global event in 100 years. He says
every nation was caught on their
heels but in those crucial early
months, Fiji was one of the few
which did everything right.
He says we have since achieved
the world’s most remarkable record
at containing this deadly disease.
Bainimarama says some countries
are COVID-free because they shut
their borders completely, even to
their own people, and never had the
coronavirus. He says Fiji actually
dealt with an outbreak and, together,
we beat it.
The Prime Minister says Fiji
systematically identified and
quarantined every known contact of
every single case in the country and
broke every chain of transmission.
He says even when Cyclone
Harold struck us smack in the middle
of our outbreak, the containment
campaign was not blown off course.
have been welcomed by the Government of Fiji and Republic
of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) to assist in this way,” he said.
RFMF Chief of Staff Captain (Navy) John Fox said the
combined training team was the largest such contingent to
deploy to Fiji this year.
“When we first talked with the NZDF about the team it was
evident that this was a bold idea to support our capacity building
programme, especially as COVID-19 continues to be a major
global concern. But we worked together to get the Kiwis in and
the RFMF looks forward to the training and reaffirming our
defence partnership,” he said.
"We’re
very pleased to
have been welcomed
by the Government of Fiji
and Republic of Fiji Military
Forces (RFMF) to assist
in this way."
Bainimarama says through it all,
we have never turned our backs on
Fijians around the world.
He says with stringent infection
protocols in place, we have safely
repatriated our people without
risking public well-being.
The Prime Minister says we have
now gone 186 days without a new
case outside of a secure border
quarantine facility.
He says many of the measures we
implemented have been replicated
elsewhere such as mandating
quarantine for healthcare workers,
the use of disciplined forces to
monitor our border quarantine
facilities, and the mandatory testing
of those in border quarantine before
release.
He says we should not only be
proud of what we have done, but of
how we have done it.
Bainimarama says when people
are dealing with a stressful situation
like quarantine or isolation, that
quality of care means a great deal. He
assured the front-line workers that it
does not go unnoticed, and it will not
be forgotten.
The Senior National Officer for the combined
training team, Lieutenant Colonel John
Barclay, said everyone in the team
was excited about the initiative and
looking forward to getting under way
this week, having completed 14 days’
managed isolation in Fiji.

16
INDIA
Friday, October 23, 2020 The Indian Weekender
NEWS in BRIEF
Should India review its relations with Taiwan?
China has reacted angrily to reports of possible talks between India and
Taiwan on a trade deal at a time when there is a growing debate in New
Delhi on whether the government should review its relationship with Taipei
against the backdrop of the border standoff in Ladakh.
India’s relations with Taiwan: India and Taiwan do not have formal
diplomatic relations but since 1995, both sides have maintained
representative offices in each other’s capitals that function as de facto
embassies. However, in a sign of the sensitivities involved, both offices
don’t mention the word “Taiwan” in their names. Taiwan has the Taipei
Economic and Cultural Center in New Delhi, and India has the India Taipei
Association in Taipei.
Indian trials on multiple Covid-19 drugs make
progress, have Aatmanirbhar Bharat tilt
At least two existing medicines
that were repurposed for the
treatment of coronavirus disease
(Covid-19) have entered into
phase III clinical trials that are
being conducted by the Council for
Scientific and Industrial Research
(CSIR). This includes the antiviral
medicine Umifenovir and a medicine that is used to treat blood infection
caused by resistant gram-negative bacteria MW Sepsivac. CSIR has also
been working with phytopharmaceuticals – or herbal medicines – including
an antiviral AQCH, which is about to enter phase III trial.
“We started a big clinical trial on MW Sepsivac as an immunomodulator
and this trial has gone well. Phase II data has come out and now we
are planning to launch the phase III trial. This immunomodulator will
become a great support for Covid-19 patients. We are also working with
phytopharmaceutical with AYUSH ministry. Today, our data for AQCH has
come. This will be the first phytopharmaceutical to be evaluated with the
modern trial approach,” said Dr S Chandrashekhar, director, Indian Institute
of Chemical Technology (IICT) that is coordinating the trials.
Eye on China, govt to bar universities from pacts
with India’s neighbours
The education ministry, after consultation with the Ministry of External
Affairs, is considering making it mandatory for Indian universities
to obtain prior permission from the government before signing any
memorandum of understanding (MoUs) with educational institutions of
countries that share land borders with India.
The proposal was mooted by the education ministry after an August 9
review of China-funded Confucius Centres attached to universities here and
also MoUs signed between Indian and Chinese universities.
The Confucius program is financed by the Office of Chinese Language
Council International which has been linked to China’s United Front Work
Department (UFWD) now headed by President Xi Jinping. Ostensibly
meant to teach Chinese language and culture, the Confucius program
has been accused of promoting China’s viewpoint and act as a vehicle
for propaganda. Several countries including Australia and the US have
previously had issues with the institutes.
Plasma therapy may not be used on patients
India is likely
to remove
convalescent plasma
therapy from the
National Clinical
Management
Protocol for the
coronavirus disease
(Covid-19) after it
showed no benefits
in treating patients of the viral disease.
Convalescent plasma therapy involves transfusing critically ill Covid-19
patients with convalescent plasma (antibody-rich plasma from patients who
recovered from the disease) so that they can fight the disease better.
“We have had discussions at the National Task Force (NTF) and we are
discussing further with the Joint Monitoring Committee.
"This (plasma therapy) may be deleted from the national guidelines,”
said Dr Balram Bhargava, director general, India Council of Medical
Research (ICMR).
ICMR had conducted a pan-India study to determine the role of
plasma therapy, and the Union health ministry had added it as one
of the investigational therapies in the national protocol for treating
Covid-19 patients.
“The largest trial on plasma therapy has been done in India with 464
patients in 39 hospitals and 350 doctors.
"This paper was accepted in the British Medical Journal and we have
received the proof and it is going to appear very soon. It is a full paper with
more than 10 pages of hardcore science talking about the role of plasma in
curing Covid-19,” said Bhargava.
BIHAR ELECTIONS:
EC takes note of packed
rallies, warns parties of action
for flouting Covid protocols
Taking a severe view of
crowded rallies held
recently in Bihar, the
Election Commission (EC) warned
political parties of action if its
instructions on maintaining crowd
discipline and taking Covid-related
precautions during campaigning are
violated again.
The poll watchdog simultaneously
instructed the Bihar Chief Electoral
Officer and its district machinery in
the state to “invoke appropriate and
relevant penal provisions” under the
Disaster Management Act, and the
Indian Penal Code against candidates
found violating EC’s orders.
The warning comes in the wake
of election rallies in Bihar becoming
more crowded and supporters not
wearing masks while in attendance.
Large crowds have been spotted
at rallies recently addressed by
RJD leader Tejashwi Pratap Yadav
and Deputy Chief Minister Sushil
Kumar Modi.
The EC’s guidelines of
August 21 mandate that physical
gatherings should be held
ensuring social distancing of at
least two metres between the
participants and that all of them are
wearing masks.
The guidelines do not mention
a limit on the number of people
who can attend rallies and meetings
and instead state that the maximum
number of attendees should not
“exceed the limit prescribed by State
Disaster Management Authority for
public gatherings”.
“Instances of such public
meetings have come to notice of the
Commission, where large numbers
of crowds have assembled in utter
violation of social distancing and
On India-US agenda, a plan to share defence
intel from Ladakh to South China Sea
The 3rd two plus two ministerial meeting next
week will see both India and the United States
consolidating military-to-military relationship
between the two democracies to move towards
institutionalised intelligence-sharing agreement and go
beyond tri-services exercises into unmanned, space and
underwater platform domains, people familiar with the
matter said.
On October 26-27, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will meet US
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Defence Secretary
Mark Esper in national capital Delhi for the third round
of the top strategic dialogue agreed by Prime Minister
Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump back in
2017. The two sides are expected to sign off on a geospatial
military foundational agreement called BECA
(Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement) that
is a precursor to India acquiring armed drones such
as the MQ-9B from the US that use spatial data for
pinpointed strikes.
The two sides are expected to build on past gains
at the meeting being held weeks before the US
Presidential elections on November 3, comfortable in the
knowledge that there is bi-partisan consensus within the
US on deepening India-US strategic relationship.
There is a strong possibility that the two sides could
work out a pact that allows institutionalised relationship
between the Defence Intelligence Agencies of the
two countries.
India and the US already share real-time intelligence
"The Commission has taken a
serious view of the laxity on
the part of political parties and candidates,
on the ground, in terms of maintaining
crowd discipline, and hereby reiterates and
further advises them to demonstrate utmost
vigil and care during electioneering
the political leaders/campaigners
are addressing the gathering without
wearing masks in complete disregard
of the guidelines/instructions issued
by Election Commission,” the
Commission said.
“By doing so, the political
parties and candidates are not
only flouting the guidelines of the
Commission with impunity, but
exposing themselves as well as the
public attending the rallies/meetings
to the danger of infection during
the pandemic… The Commission
has taken a serious view of the laxity
on the part of political parties and
candidates, on the ground, in terms
of maintaining crowd discipline, and
hereby reiterates and further advises
them to demonstrate utmost vigil
and care during electioneering.,” t
he EC said.
Candidates and organisers found
violating the poll watchdog’s
instructions in future could face
cases under Sections 51 to 60 of the
Disaster Management Act, 2005, and
Section 188 of IPC, which deal with
punishment for obstructing a public
servant from discharging her duty
and refusing to follow her order.
With 7.3 crore voters, the
upcoming Legislative Assembly
election in Bihar is not only the first
major electoral exercise in India
since the Covid-19 outbreak, but also
the largest anywhere in the world
so far.
through the communication agreement called COMCASA.
But the new pact would allow the two allies to share vital
tri-services intelligence on developments in all defence
matters ranging from the South China Sea to Ladakh.
This proposal has been hanging fire for quite some years
without any results.
Although BECA is still to be formally cleared by PM
Modi’s Cabinet, the agreement will enable India to buy
armed unmanned aerial and underwater platforms from
the US. These would be loaded with neighbourhood terrain
maps for pin-pointed destruction of acquired targets. The
terrain maps will also help in precision flying of US made
platforms acquired by India and hence enhance military
capability of platforms like Apache attack helicopters and
Chinook heavy lift helicopters.
While a decision to acquire armed drones has been
communicated to the US, the two countries are going
beyond mere exercises and into hitherto unexplored
domains like space and undersea.

The Indian Weekender Friday, October 23, 2020
ENTERTAINMENT 17
FARIDA JALAL recalls
playing a romantic role in
Aradhana opposite Rajesh
Khanna; Says 'I was nervous'
Veteran actor Farida Jalal
has been part of some of
several iconic films such as
Aradhana, Dilwale Dulhaniya
Le Jayenge, Kuch Kuch
Hota Hai to name a few.
She has been part of the
film industry for over
five decades and has
done over 200 films.
However, many
people think that
Farida Jalal only
portrayed mother and
sister roles. But very few
people know that she has
played romantic roles as well.
Particularly, the one that stood out
the most was in Aradhana opposite
late superstar Rajesh Khanna.
In a recent interview with TOI,
Farida Jalal has spoken about her
acting journey, film industry and
more. She said that before Aaradhna,
she had done Rajshri Productions’
Taqdeer in 1967. Aradhana was
her second film, she was happy
about the fact that she got the role
but was nervous about romancing
on-screen. She further added, “In
that romantic song in Aradhana
with Rajesh Khanna ji Baago mein
bahaar hai where I come out as a
very coy girl, I wasn’t putting on any
A
Hindi film that remains
special for everyone
across the world is Shah
Rukh Khan and Kajol starrer
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge.
The film is celebrating his 25
years today and on the occasion,
fans across the world have been
sharing memories associated with
the special romantic film.
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge
was written and directed by Aditya
Chopra and it managed to be a
blockbuster back in 1995 and it
continues to remain special for
millions of fans across the world.
act. I was actually
feeling very shy. So to
answer your question, yes I did nurse
that thought. But it didn’t happen.”
Farida Jalal had also taken part in the
talent hunt contest along with Rajesh
Khanna in 1965.
When asked about her male
counterparts like Anupam Kher and
Paresh Rawal, like why do they still
get to play various roles, she said,
“They were cast opposite me. And
now look at the fact that they have
got to do a villain’s role, comedian’s
role, lawyer’s role, doctor’s role.
And their body language was so
different in all.
25 YEARS OF DDLJ: SRK and
Kajol's iconic film gets its own
emoji to mark the silver jubilee
On the occasion, Twitter India
chose to surprise fans by launching
a special emoji for it.
Twitter launched a special
emoticon to mark and celebrate
25 years of Shah Rukh and
Kajol's DDLJ. The emoticon that
Twitter picked also has a special
connection with the film.
Remember the cowbell in Europe
that connected Raj and Simran?
Yes, Twitter India used that to gift
fans a special emoticon on the
film's silver jubilee anniversary.
Anyone who uses a
hashtag related to #DDLJ,
What haven’t they done? But what
about the women? Why aren’t we
given those opportunities?”
Later, when asked about the
ongoing drugs issue, she said that she
is in a happy space.
She loves the film industry and her
profession, hates what’s going on at
this moment. She quoted, “Creative
people are much better off in the rest
of the world.”
And one of the most memorable
films she has done is Mammo with
Shyam Benegal. She revealed that
the makers had told her that they had
Waheeda Rehman on their mind, but
later, she bagged the role.
#DDLJ25,#25YearsOfDDLJ,
#DilwaleDulhaniaLeJayenge and
would be able to see the special
emoticon on Twitter.
Talking about it, Anand Gurnani,
Vice President – Digital & New
Media, Yash Raj Films Pvt. Ltd.
said, "YRF is celebrating 50 years
and DDLJ celebrates 25 in the same
year - it’s an unforgettable once-ina-lifetime
moment. We're grateful
Shammi Kapoor birth anniversary:
When the late actor forgot his lines
while shooting with Madhubala
Today marks the 89th birth
anniversary of late Shammi
Kapoor. Here's an interesting
fact related to the legendary star that
you should know about.
Shammi Kapoor birth
anniversary: When the late actor
forgot his lines while shooting
with MadhubalaShammi
Kapoor birth anniversary:
When the late actor forgot
his lines while shooting with
Madhubala
Shammi Kapoor is often
referred to as the blue-eyed
boy of Bollywood or Indian
Elvis Presley. The late actor’s
films created quite the rage
mostly during the 1960s. Right from
Brahmachari to Junglee, Kashmir Ki
Kali, and others, the legendary star
won the hearts of the audience not
only with his acting prowess but also
amazing dancing skills.
He once said in one of his
interviews that he never learned
how to dance and never had a
dance master.
But he was able to woo an entire
generation with his amazing rock
and roll jigs. Today marks the 89th
birth anniversary of Shammiji. We
wish to let our readers know about
an interesting and lesser-known fact
related to the late star. He had once
admitted to having forgotten his
lines after having seen the beauty
queen Madhubala.
Yes, you heard it right! That
happened during the shoot of Rail Ka
Dabba when he met the actress for
and humbled with the volume of
conversations around #DDLJ25
and through this special emoji
being launched on this momentous
occasion, we just wanted to gratify
all our DDLJ fans worldwide
by adding a little delight to their
Twitter timeline.
It’s just our small way to say
‘Thanks’ for their unconditional
love, over the years!"
DDLJ turns 25: Anupam Kher is proud to be part of iconic film
Veteran actor Anupam Kher shared that
he is proud to be part of the iconic film,
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, which
released 25 years ago on this day.
In the Aditya Chopra directorial, Kher
played the role of Dharamvir Malhotra, an NRI
businessman based in London and father of the
male protagonist Raj Malhotra, played by Shah
Rukh Khan.
The veteran actor recalled two of his popular
dialogues from the romantic film and posted
these in Hindi on his verified Instagram account.
The dialogues are: Hum toh sab Hindustan
mein fail huye, tune London mein fail hokar
dikha diya..." and Mohabbat ka naam aaj bhi
mohabbat hai, yeh na kabhi badli hai aur na
kabhi badlegi... Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge.
"Proud to be part of this iconic
film which completes 25 years
today. Yes, your love has been a
constant!! A big thank you!! JAI
HO!! DharamvirMalhotra #Pops
#25YearsOfDDLJ."
Celebrating 25 years of the blockbuster hit,
which cemented his space as a romantic hero in
Bollywood, lead actor SRK tweeted on Tuesday:
"25 years!!! Filled with gratitude towards you
for loving Raj & Simran, with all your heart.
This always feels special. #DDLJ25."
The film's lead actress Kajol wrote: "Raj &
"Hum
toh sab
Hindustan mein fail
huye, tune London mein
fail hokar dikha diya..."
and "Mohabbat ka naam
aaj bhi mohabbat hai, yeh na
kabhi badli hai aur na kabhi
badlegi... Dilwale Dulhania
Le Jayenge."
Simran! 2 people, 1 film, 25 years
and the love doesn't stop coming
in! I am truly grateful to all
the people who made it what
it is today.. a phenomenon
and a part of their own
history. "The fans! Big
shoutout to all of you.
#25YearsOfDDLJ."
the
very
first time.
This has also been mentioned in
Shammi Kapoor’s biography by
Rauf Ahmed. The late actor said
that he could not take his eyes off
Madhubala when he saw her. He also
confessed to have felt like being hit
by a thunderbolt.
Not only that, but the Teesri
Manzil actor was extremely nervous
while taking the actress in his arms
for an intimate scene. Shammiji
stated that he was so nervous that he
kept forgetting his lines post which
Madhubala helped him out.
Talking about Shammi Kapoor, the
legendary star left for his heavenly
abode on August 14, 2020, at the age
of 79 years.
Shabana Azmi, Raj Babbar
remember Smita Patil on
her birth anniversary
Veteran actress
Shabana Azmi
paid tribute
to the late Smita Patil,
on the occasion of
her birth anniversary.
Smita's husband, actor
Raj Babbar, and son
Prateik, also took to
social media to share emotional posts for
the phenomenal actress, who passed away
at the age of 31.
"Remembering #Smita Patil on her birth
anniversary. She went away 34 years ago but
resides firmly in the hearts of cinemafiles,"
tweeted Azmi who, along with Smita,
became prominent faces of the thriving
arthouse cinema circuit of the seventies
and the eighties. Veteran actor-politician
Babbar shared a throwback photo of the late
actress on his verified Twitter account and
wrote: "An artist of incomparable genius, a
person with such an emotional soul - fondly
remembering Smita today on her birthday.
You had such a short journey and yet your
captivating presence is felt by all whose life
you touched. Your influence has been so
meaningful. #SmitaPatil."
Her son, actor Prateik Babbar, shares
a "Happy Birthday mom" message on
Instagram Stories, expressing gratitude
to those remembering the late actress on
her birth anniversary. Born on October
17, 1955, Smita Patil was honoured with
multiple awards including two National
Awards as Best Actress (for "Bhumika"
and "Chakra"), besides the Padma Shri
in 1985. Smita breathed her last on
December 13, 1986.

18
FEATURES
Friday, October 23, 2020 The Indian Weekender
BLACK CHICKPEAS
CHANA KEBAB
INGREDIENTS:
• 1cup - chickpeas
• 1tsp - salt
• 1/2tsp - oil
• FOR KEBABS
• 2 - potatoes, medium
• 1tsp - mango powder
• 1/2tsp - red chilli powder
• 1tsp - coriander powder
• 1/2tsp - salt or according to taste
• 1tbsp - coriander, chopped
• 2tsp - oil
• 1tsp - cumin seeds
• 1 - onion, small chopped
• 2-3 - green chilli, chopped
• 1tsp - ginger paste
• 1cup - breadcrumbs
• Oil for frying the kebabs
METHOD:
• Rinse chickpeas throughly under running
water.
• Transfer the chickpeas to a bowl and soak
them overnight in 3 cups of water. By the
morning, the chickpeas will swell and double
in size.
• Drain that water and rinse the chickpeas once
again under running water.
• Add the chickpeas in a pressure cooker and
add enough water to cover them.
• Add salt and oil to the chickpeas, mix well to
combine and cook over medium flame for 20-
25 minutes. Chana Kabab
• Drain the water from the cooked chickpeas
and transfer them to a mixing bowl.
• Mash some of the black chickpeas with a
potato masher.
• Boil the potatoes, peel the outer skin and
mash them.
• Add mashed potatoes to the chickpeas and
mix well with the fork.
• Add mango powder, red chilli powder,
coriander powder, salt and chopped fresh
coriander, to the potato mixture and mix well
again. Set aside.
• Heat oil in a heavy base fry pan over medium
flame.
• Add cumin seeds, when they start to splatter,
add chopped onions, chopped green chilies
and ginger paste, sauté for 3-4 minutes or
until the onions are translucent.
• Add this onion mixture to the chickpea
mixture. Mix until well blended.
• Add in breadcrumbs, mix until thoroughly
blended.
• To make the kebabs; grease your hands with
little oil, take a hand full of kabab mixture and
shape it into a round disk (kabab).
• Repeat the process until all the kebabs have
been assembled.
• Heat oil (in tablespoons) in a skillet over
medium flame.
• Add chickpea kababs to the skillet and
shallow fry them until both the sides are
golden brown and crisp. It will take about 2-3
minutes on each side.
• Transfer kebabs onto a kitchen paper towel.
• Repeat the process until all the kababs are
done.
• Serve with a cup of tea and a chutney on the
side.
• Serves - 5-6
Green Chutney
Ingredients:
• 1cup - coriander leaves
• 1inch - ginger
• 8 - garlic cloves
• 6-8 - green chillies
• 2tbsp - lemon juice
• 1 - tomato, large
METHOD:
• Grind everything together into
a fine paste using little water if
needed in tablespoons.
Kala chana curry
INGREDIENTS:
• 1cup - black chickpeas (kala chana)
• 1tsp - oil
• 1/2tsp - salt
• 2cups - water
• 1/2tsp - asafoetida
• 1tsp - cumin seeds
• 1 - onion, large
• 6 - garlic cloves
• 2inch - ginger piece
• 3-4 - green chillies
• 1/2tsp - red chilli powder
• 1tsp - kashmiri chilli powder
• 1/2tsp - turmeric powder
• 1tsp - coriander powder
• 2 - tomatoes, medium
• 1/2tsp - garam masala powder
• 1/2tsp - salt or according to taste
• 2tbsp - oil
• Fresh coriander
METHOD:
• Rinse chickpeas throughly under running
water then transfer them to a bowl.
• Soak the chickpeas overnight in 3 cups of
water. By the morning, the chickpeas will
swell and double in size.
• Drain that water and rinse the chickpeas
once again under running water.
• Add the chickpeas in a pressure cooker
followed by oil, salt and water and pressure
cook them for about 20-25 minutes on
medium flame (to check if the chickpeas are
cooked; for that chickpeas should be soft and
you should be able to crush them with two
fingers). Set aside.
• Meanwhile in a fry pan add 2 tablespoons of
oil and heat it over medium flame.
• Add asafoetida, stir, add cumin seeds and
sauté for few seconds.
• Peel, wash and grate onions then add them to
the frypan; sauté for 4-5 minutes or until the
onions are dark brown in colour.
• In a blender add the ginger, garlic and green
chillies with 2-3 tbsps of water and blitz to
a paste.
• Add ginger paste to the onions and sauté for
2-3 minutes stirring continuously.
• Lower the flame and add red chilli powder,
kashmiri chilli powder, turmeric powder and
coriander powder, mix well with a splash of
water.
• Wash and chop tomatoes, then add them
to the masala, sauté for 2-3 minutes over
medium flame or until oil comes on top.
• Add onion masala to the cooked chickpeas,
give a good mix and add water to make
gravy (add more or less water according to
your choice of preferred gravy).
• Add garam masala powder and season with
salt (do remember we already have added
salt in it while boiling the chickpeas).
• Pressure cook chickpeas for another 2-3
minutes.
• Garnish with chopped coriander.
• Serve with rice or preferably roti
• Serves 3-4
Why coconut oil is so beneficial for our skin and hair
Coconut oil has been used in
India since ancient times.
This marvel oil is a one-stop
solution to many concerns related
to health, nutrition or beauty. This
oil has gained a lot of popularity
recently because of its touted health
benefits.
People these days are using
coconut oil for almost everything,
from smoothies to bullet coffee,
from oil pulling to cosmetic and
what not. Coconut oil is a plantbased
vegan form of oil which is
made by pressing the fat from the
white meat (fruit part) inside the
matured coconuts. About 84 percent
of its calories come from saturated
fat. Also, coconut oil contains 50
percent of lauric acid, which makes
the oil more hydrating and antimicrobial.
Coconut oil for hair
Provides deep condition and
tames the frizz- Coconut oil is a
great hair conditioner.
That is why it is used in many
hair conditioner products both
commercially and cosmetically as
it can easily penetrate the strands
and provides deep conditioning. The
weekly application of coconut oil
can prevent protein loss from hair
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Therefore, it is a great source to
provide deep hair nourishment. You
can also straightaway use coconut
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hair wash.
Adds that extra shine- The
application of a small amount of
organic virgin coconut oil onto the
ends of the hair will add a natural
shine. Remember to apply the oil
cautiously without making your hair
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Minimises dandruff- Coconut
oil can help lower the levels of
yeast on the hair scalp that causes
inflammation, flaking and scalp
irritation associated with dandruff.
Try minimising the problem with
ultra-moisturisation of hair by
massaging with coconut oil weekly.
Prevents hair loss and hair
thinning- As coconut oil is a great
source of vitamin E and fatty acids,
so it prevents hair loss and hair
thinning.
It also prevents premature greying
of hair.
DIY Coconut Hair Mask
Coconut oil and aloe vera hair
mask- This mask is a great food for
hair. All you have to do is to take
coconut oil for the hair length and
add 1-2 tablespoon of fresh aloe
vera gel to the warm oil. Massage it
gently, and wash after 30-45 minutes
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Coconut oil for ski
Coconut oil is a blessing for the
skin as well. It has the potentiality of
treating many skin allergies:
For a clear and nourished skin- As
now we know that coconut oil has
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to the skin. Can be used as an eye
cream-
If you struggle from under eye
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This pocket friendly solution will
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skin allergies- Coconut is known
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skin allergies like, eczema, psoriasis
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acid.
DIY Mask For skin
Take 1-2 teaspoon of coconut
oil and add 1 teaspoon of manuka
honey or normal honey to it. Apply
it on a dry face and rinse the face
post 15 minutes of the application.
You will get a naturally glowing and
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19 Sturdee Road, Manurewa
Auction Tuesday 10th November(unless sold prior)
3 Bed 1 Bath 2 Garaging
Lot 4/74 McKenzie Road, Mangere
For sale by negotiation
3 Bed 2 Bath 1 Garaging
127A Tui Road, Papatoetoe
For sale by negotiation
5 Bed 3 Bath 2 Car
Lot 1/33 Tasman Street, Pukekohe
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For sale by negotiation
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Gurjeet Sekhon
Residential Sales Otahuhu Branch
Mobile: 027 282 9448 | After Hours: (09) 279 2283
Email: g.sekhon@barfoot.co.nz
Barfoot and Thompson: Otahuhu, Auckland