February 16, 2024, The Indian Weekender

Friday, 16 February 2024
Volume 15 / Issue 45
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Pilgrimage planned in March
offers Kiwi-Indians a journey to
holy sites, landmarks in Bharat
INDIA TOUR
PROMISES
SPIRITUAL
ODYSSEY
Sunidhi Packs
A Punch In
Auckland
RAVI BAJPAI
Applications are now open to join
a group tour from New Zealand
to India for what is being billed
as a two-week spiritual odyssey
through the heart of Bharat.
The trip being organised by the Hindu
Council of New Zealand together with
the Hindu Organizations, Temples,
and Associations (HOTA) Forum is
scheduled from March 14 to 28, 2024.
Organisers say the journey takes
inspiration from the auspicious
inauguration of the Shri Ram Mandir
in Ayodhya and the recent restoration
of the Kashi Vishwanath corridor in
Varanasi. Guided by Pravinbhai Patel,
the pilgrimage promises a not-forprofit
exploration of significant sites
across the country.
• Continued on Page 10
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Read online www.iwk.co.nz Friday, 16 February, 2024
NEW ZEALAND 3
Revealed: The 4 Indian restaurants
ranked among Auckland’s ‘filthiest’
URJITA BHARDWAJ
IN AUCKLAND
In a development that
rattled Indian foodies
of Auckland, four Indian
restaurants were among the 43
eating establishments rated as
the worst food outlets, under
the D-grade category, across
Auckland by the Auckland Council.
These restaurants include Idly
Sambar in Kingsland, Bawarchi
in Sandringham, Love Punjab in
Manurewa, and Bombay Chinese
Indian Restaurant on Queen St.
Of these, two restaurants that
The Indian Weekender spoke
to asserted that their grades
were expeditiously restored to
an 'A' within days of the 2023
inspection, expressing concern
that their continued inclusion on
the list is adversely affecting their
business.
The comprehensive list,
accessible on the Auckland
Council’s website, comprises
D-grade food establishments
identified between September
2023 and January 2024.
Speaking to The Indian
Weekender, Osman, sous chef of
Bawarchi restaurant, explained
that issues such as cleanliness
under the oven and the
organisation of food items were
lacking during the December 12
inspection.
However, their
grade was reinstated
to an 'A' within a
week.
“Our restaurant is
a clean place, and
we maintain high
hygiene standards.
On the day of the
inspection, some
things were not in
order, but we fixed
the faults within
hours and called
for a re-inspection.
Finally, the team
came a week
later and found
everything to be in
order and restored
our grade to an A,”
he said.
He added that since the day
this news was made public, he
has been receiving calls from his
regular clients, who have a lot
of complaints. “This has hit our
business very hard. But one has
to understand that those were
minor mistakes that were rectified
immediately, and the grade 'A'
was restored. We work very hard
in managing the brand. We are
now showing each customer our
certificate so that we can regain
their faith,” he added.
Satya, the owner of Idly Sambar
in Kingsland, shared a similar
narrative, describing the list as
Photos shared by Auckland Council without naming the restaurants.
Of these, two
restaurants that The
Indian Weekender
spoke to asserted
that their grades were
expeditiously restored
to an 'A' within days of
the 2023 inspection,
expressing concern
that their continued
inclusion on the list
is adversely affecting
their business.
“misleading”.
“My restaurant is an A-grade
place with all safety measures
in place. The inspection took
place last year when the council
took note of some broomsticks
lying around, and I was unable to
present some documents in hard
copy, while all documents were
in place and submitted online.
When I submitted all documents
physically, my grade was restored
within four days. Wonder why my
restaurant is still on that list,” he
said.
The Indian Weekender
contacted Love Punjab in
Manurewa and Bombay Chinese
Indian Restaurant for their
comments. While the owner of
Love Punjab was not reachable,
the owner of Bombay Chinese
refused to comment.
Out of the 43 establishments
with issues ranging from
cockroach infestations to
unhygienic kitchens and pest
problems, 41 received D-grades,
signalling deficiencies in various
operational areas.
Additionally, two eateries
faced temporary closure due to
E-grades, indicative of severe
risks. These ratings reflect
a spectrum of deficiencies,
encompassing inadequate
cleaning protocols, substandard
food safety practices, poor
hygiene maintenance, improper
temperature controls, neglect in
equipment and facility upkeep,
and pest-related issues.
A food grade certificate,
according to the council, assures
consumers of the safety and
suitability of offered food,
ensuring compliance with quality
and hygiene standards mandated
by the Food Act.
Grades A, B, or C instill
confidence in the safety
of the food provided, while
establishments receiving D and
E grades prompt enforcement
actions, signifying critical issues
requiring urgent rectification. E
ratings, particularly, are reserved
for instances of severe risk.
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4
NEW ZEALAND
Rang Barse
as thousands
turn up for
Krishna Holi
Friday, 16 February, 2024
Read online www.iwk.co.nz
IWK BUREAU
Auckland skies were
painted in vibrant colours
by revellers who came
to participate in Krishna Holi -
Festival of Colours Auckland 2024
– on February 11.
The event at Kumeu offered a
fun time to guests who smeared
each other with bright colours.
The event was held between noon
and 4pm, and everyone who was
there was immersed in the spirit
of the festival of colours.
Holi is a popular spring festival
that celebrates love and harmony.
Lord Krishna and Radha's eternal
love is celebrated through this
festival of colours.
The triumph of good over evil is
celebrated through this festival, as
the festival also marks the victory
of Vishnu as Narasimha, over
Hiranyakashyap.
A bonfire is lit the night before
Holi to commemorate this.
Despite the fact that people had
to drive 30 minutes from central
Auckland to reach the venue,
since public transport to the
venue was limited, the event
was well-attended.
One orgnaniser said about 9,000
people had registered for the
event but nearly 15,000 turned
up on the day.
“We had prepared our parking
for 9,000 people, so we could have
done something much better if we
were aware of how many people
would come,” the organiser said.
The family-friendly event saw
everyone, including the elderly
Changes have been made
to kerbside recycling
and children, smearing colour and
dancing with much gusto.
Colours used were non-toxic,
and both the food and the colours
were available for
purchase at the venue.
Since the event was held on
the temple ground, no alcohol or
smoking or recreational drugs
were allowed.
"Everyone was informed about
the dos and don'ts. We also
warned people to stay away
from the main crowd if they were
allergic to corn starch dust since
The triumph of good
over evil is celebrated
through this festival,
as the festival also
marks the victory of
Vishnu as Narasimha,
over Hiranyakashyap.
A bonfire is lit the night
before Holi to
commemorate this.
the colours were made from foodgrade
corn starch and we did not
want any medical emergency,"
said an organiser.
Guests were left wanting for
more as the day drew to a close.
Seema Kaplesh, who participated
in the event, said, “Hare Krishna
So beautifully organised thank
you for the event and will
definitely be back next year [sic].”
The long queues of vehicles
leaving the venue spoke for the
event’s success.
Oganisers said there were two
entrances and one exit at the
event, and some attendees were
arriving while others were leaving,
slowing down traffic.
“We concluded that safety of
the people was our number-one
priority.
"We could understand that
frustration was there, but it was
for their own benefit,” said an
organiser, adding parking was
definitely something they would
work on for next year’s event.
Covid variant JN.1 becomes
dominant strain: 'It's pretty easy
to spread this little bug around'
RNZ
From 1 February 2024, only plastics with a
1, 2, and 5 are accepted in all kerbside recycling
across New Zealand (along with paper, cardboard,
rinsed tins and cans). Glass is still accepted in
the green/blue crate.
Learn more at
fightthelandfill.co.nz/faq
Almost all Covid-19 cases in Aotearoa
are now caused by the latest variant
JN.1, according to the latest data,
with an immunity expert saying it became
the dominant strain "very rapidly".
Immunisation Advisory Centre founder
Dr Nikki Turner says the strain most likely
arrived in October.
"It's only got a small single change in the
spike protein, so it's very similar to previous
ones. It's just become more dominant very
rapidly."
Dr Turner said the traditional vaccine was
holding up well against the new strain, but
an updated vaccine expected to arrive in a
few weeks "closely matched" JN.1.
Medsafe approved Pfizer's application for
an updated shot for the XBB.1.5 strain in
December and it will be available in time for
the upcoming winter season.
"American data is showing the vaccine
looks highly effective to the strain, so that's
very reassuring," Dr Turner said.
She said the new variant was slightly
different to the previous one.
"We do have to remember about all
vaccines with Covid, they're more effective
against severe disease.
"So the vaccines are preventing a lot of
severe disease."
Dr Turner said mild disease was expected,
even after getting vaccinated.
"But the vaccines are having a very good
effect against hospitalisation," she said.
She said the virus was spreading even
though people had been spending a lot of
time outside thanks to a warm summer.
"Even though we go outdoors, we do mix
closely.
"We sit together in cars, we sit together
and transport, we cuddle up in our barbecues
and, you know, we hug.
"It's pretty easy to spread this little bug
around."
Dr Turner said vaccines offered the best
form of protection.
"Particularly [for] people who at high risk,
you really at this stage still need a vaccine
every six months, six months since you had
the disease or six months since you had a
last vaccine."
The elderly, people with medical issues,
those concerned about getting severe flu or
Covid symptoms should not delay getting
the vaccine, she said.
But Covid was not the only virus we
needed to worry about, she said.
"Flu is nasty and it kills."
She said most flu cases were in winter, but
recently there had been some non-seasonal
outbreaks.
The new flu vaccine would be available in
March.

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6
NEW ZEALAND
Friday, 16 February, 2024
'Thankful': 1st Sikh from
NZ at Miss World pageant
Read online www.iwk.co.nz
BLESSEN TOM/RNZ
A
27-year-old former police officer
is off to represent New Zealand at
the Miss World beauty contest in
India next month.
Navjot Kaur, who spent two years on the
beat in south Auckland, won the title
in a rapid-fire selection process in
Auckland last weekend.
Next week, Kaur will join
around 90 women vying for
the 2024 Miss World title
during a range of events
in Delhi and Mumbai.
"I'm very overwhelmed
and thankful for the
opportunity," Kaur says.
Kaur's sister, Isha, also
competed for a place in the New
Zealand competition.
"It was not a competition between
us," Kaur says. "We both had the same
mindset that whoever wins between us
will have the same morals and values that
we learned from our mum."
As a member of the Sikh community,
Kaur believes her representation helps
to showcase New Zealand's diversity
to the world. Kaur's family migrated to
New Zealand in the early '90s before her
birth. Eventually raised by a solo mother,
Kaur aspires to make a positive impact
on society and views the Miss World
competition as a platform on which to do
so.
"Growing up in a state house in
Manurewa, I witnessed many young
people struggling and I wanted to change
that," she says. "That's why I joined the
police."
Kaur graduated from Police College in
2019 and left the force two years later.
"What we witnessed on the frontlines was
different from what we learned at Police
College," Kaur says.
"There's family harm, there's child
abuse and when I got onto the frontlines
it emotionally drained me because I used
to be very connected to the victims," she
says. "I left (the force) after my last suicide
(case), which was very intense."
Following her departure from the police
force, she pursued personal training and
recently acquired her real estate license.
"I really wanted to help people get into the
best shape, look and feel confident again,
making a difference in people's lives," she
says.
The Miss World contest began in 1951,
when entrepreneur Eric Morley devised a
pageant to promote a new and controversial
type of swimming attire called the bikini.
This caused some uproar, particularly
in religious countries, which called the
swimming costume immodest.
That controversy set the tone for the
pageant, which along with other global
beauty contests (Miss Universe, Miss
International, Miss Earth) has been a
target of protestors ever since. Kaur says
the Miss World competition goes beyond
superficial beauty, focusing on community
engagement and philanthropy.
"There's always giving back to the
community, a charity aspect and there's
always something to do with helping
people," Kaur says.
In 2014, Morley ditched the contest's
swimsuit parade, saying it "doesn't do
anything for the woman and it doesn't do
anything for any of us".
Contestants are now expected to
demonstrate skills and a commitment to
fundraising and charity work.
"They're not doing the swim rounds at
Miss World, so it doesn't objectify women,"
Kaur says.
She says the Miss World platform aligns
beauty with purpose, enabling participants
to raise awareness and serve their
communities. The Miss World Organisation
has raised more than £1 billion ($2.06
billion) for children's charities since its
launch. Despite being a New Zealand
citizen, Kaur is also an overseas citizen of
India, adding an intriguing dynamic to her
participation in this year's contest.
"I've learned the best of both worlds," she
says.
"I can perform traditional poi, the karanga,
which I did during my time in the police,
and, of course, I can do the Bhangra, a
traditional Punjabi folk dance."
Kaur wants to use the Miss World
platform to educate and inspire women in
her community.
"There are norms in my Punjabi
community, where women are seen in a
certain way, like they can't do this and they
can't do that," Kaur says.
"When I became a police officer, I was
questioned by my own community. So, I
think this platform will allow me to inspire
others and tell them, 'If I can do it, you can
do it too'," she says. "Just dare to
dream big."
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Read online www.iwk.co.nz Friday, 16 February, 2024
NEW ZEALAND 7

8
NEW ZEALAND
Friday, 16 February, 2024
Ramandeep murder:
‘I love you’ chants as
accused pleads not guilty
RAVI BAJPAI
One of the two men accused
of murdering security
guard Ramandeep Singh
in West Auckland last year has
pleaded not guilty to the crime.
The 27-year-old appeared
in the High Court and has
secured a name suppression.
Another accused, a 17-year-old
who attended the hearing via
e-conferencing from a youth
justice facility, has yet to file a
plea.
Singh worked as an
Armourguard patrolman, and
was found dead at a car park in
Massey on December 18, with
stab wounds.
During the hearing at High
Court, the 27-year-old accused
appeared in person in the dock.
Several of his family members
sitting in the public gallery called
out “I love you” when the
hearing ended.
Police say a group of people
indulging in prohibited activity
at the park stabbed Singh to
death when he objected to their
behaviour. Police say they are on
the lookout for more accused.
Justice Downs set a trial date of
June 23 next year for three weeks,
saying the age of the younger
defendant meant a prompt trial
was important.
Both the accused retained
interim name suppression ahead
of their next hearing for case
review, on April 17.
Back in his hometown of Kotli
Shahpur, his mother still recalls
her last conversation with her
only son. “He would tell me not
to worry about him…and that he
is doing fine.” Ramadeep Singh’s
mother is inconsolable as she
tries to make sense of the tragedy.
“I used to talk to him every day.
He used to tell me don’t worry
about me, I am fine. It was only
on Saturday that I didn’t speak to
him,” she told journalists.
A security patrolman working
with Armourguard, Ramandeep
came to New Zealand about fiveand-a-half
years ago.
Her mother said she got to know
of his death through his friend.
“He was such a good boy...a
good son...why would somebody
do this to him. He had no enemies.
I want justice for him and want the
culprits to get punished.”
Armourguard's general
manager Shane O’Halloran earlier
expressed profound sorrow as he
confirmed that the victim was a
valued staff member employed
through a contractor.
In a post on social media,
Armourguard said its community
“has been shattered” by the
sudden loss of Singh, who leaves
behind a broken family and friends
in mourning.
“For his parents, he wasn’t just
a son; he was their only son, the
pride of their lives.
“His death serves as a reminder
of the risks our security personnel
face every day when
they go to work.”
Retail crime: Indian businesses call for police task force
GAURAV SHARMA/RNZ
Indian community business
associations, retailers and
community leaders have called
on the government to create a
national police task force that is
focused solely on violent retail
crime and aggravated robberies.
The task force was one of
four demands submitted to
Police Minister Mark Mitchell
at a public meeting on retail
crime in Auckland's Manukau
district on Saturday.
Other demands included
the appointment of a police
commissioner with a proven track
record of reducing ram raids and
retail crime, and the establishment
of an independent autonomous
body to advocate on behalf of the
community and retailers.
In addition, the community has
called on the Police Association
to document what frontline police
needs to prevent ram raids and
retail crime.
Associate Justice Minister
Nicole McKee and Auckland
Mayor Wayne Brown also attended
the meeting. Representatives
from New Zealand Police also
attended, including the district
commander for Counties Manukau,
Superintendent Shanan Gray, and
manager of the Police National
Retail Investigation Support Unit,
Matt Tierney.
Sunny Kaushal, chair of the Dairy
and Business Owners Group, who
organised the gathering, noted
the meeting was necessitated
by a "distressing and continuing
spate" of violent retail crime and
aggravated robberies.
"Early this year, I was contacted
by our community to organise a
protest, Kaushal said. "Instead,
we thought of having this public
meeting first so that decisionmakers
on the crime affecting
us all understand our desire for
change. We are angry, as a change
in government hasn't resulted in
retail crime statistics trending
towards zero."
Similar sentiments were shared
by members of the community
throughout the afternoon.
Himanshu Parmar, the ACT
Party's election candidate for
Hamilton East in 2023 and a victim
of violent retail crime himself,
acknowledged the frustration
prevalent in the Indian community.
"Unfortunately, elections have
come and gone," Parmar said.
"But the criminals simply do not
care and are largely carrying on
their ram raids and aggravated
robberies, while finding new unique
ways to terrorize communities."
Jaspreet Kandhari, general
secretary of New Zealand Indian
Business Association, was even
more blunt in his assessment of
the situation.
"(It) is no secret that the Indian
community by and large voted
for the National Party in the last
election, and the single most
important issue for us was the
promise of controlling violent retail
crime," Kandhari said.
"A few decades back, New
Zealand faced the epidemic of
bank robberies, which was ended
by the authorities. Likewise, we
want this government to give us
the timeline (through) which the
epidemic of aggravated robberies
and violent retail crime will end."
Dhansukh Lal, president of the
Auckland Indian Association,
highlighted the mental trauma and
insurance costs faced by victims
of violent retail crime.
Jithin Chittibomma, chairperson
of the Sandrigham Business
Association, claimed the
government had "misplaced
priorities".
"Why is the government
spending so much money
on the firearm register?"
Chittibomma said.
"This money can be better used
in preventing violent retail crime
and supporting the victims."
Navtej Randhawa, the National
Party's election candidate for
Panmure-Ōtāhuhu in 2023, said
business owners would leave in
droves unless the government
took steps to rein in offending.
"Our businesses have been
robbed three times at gun point,"
Randhawa said.
"Especially for the last two
years, our community has
been at the forefront of this
epidemic. If the new government
doesn't do anything soon, there
will be mass immigration to
Australia. People will simply shut
shop and leave."
Retail crime victims Suresh
Patel and Ghouse Majeed also
addressed the gathering, calling
on the government to act quickly.
In response, Mitchell and
Mckee spelled out the measures
the coalition government had
introduced to reduce violent retail
crime and ram raids. Mitchell
assured the community that the
government was listening to
concerns with urgency.
"I want more police on the beat
again," Mitchell said.
"They should be highly visible,
meeting you regularly and
ensuring your safety. But change
won't happen overnight."
Read online www.iwk.co.nz
'Biggest
ever seen':
Ponsonby
prepares
for Rainbow
parade
IWK BUREAU
On February 17, Rainbow
Pride Auckland will be
organising its annual
Pride event, the Auckland
Rainbow Parade which
celebrates the diversity and
resilience of New Zealand’s
LGBTQIA+ community.
The parade will take place at
Ponsonby Road from 7.30pm
to 9.30pm. "This year, we’re
aiming to make the parade the
biggest celebration Auckland
has ever seen. Whether you’re a
community group, a workplace,
or an individual with a message
of support, the parade is the
perfect opportunity to show
your pride," says an organiser.
The parade is meant to be a
tribute to the heroes who fought
against AIDS in the 1990s, and
honours LGBTQIA+ advocates,
representatives, and trailblazers
who have paved the way for the
community.
The parade aims to showcase
the best of Auckland to
LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies
from across the globe.
The march and parade in
Auckland came about after a
community discussion in 2019
resulted in the cancellation of
the Auckland Pride Parade then.
This led to a protest march
from Albert Park to advocate
for pride rights. The Rainbow
Parade in Ponsonby was started
to celebrate and show solidarity
with the rainbow and ally
communities.
This will be the second year
of motorised floats during the
parade, since the start of the
parade in 2020. Pre-registration
is a requirement to join the
parade due to health and safety
compliances (See website
https://rainbowparade.nz).
Rainbow Pride Auckland
was established to provide an
inclusive vehicle to organise
a parade to celebrate New
Zealand's LGBTQIA+ rainbow
community.
"We celebrate the diversity
of our communities and their
rich tapestry of individualism,
identity, freedom of expression,
community culture and growing
everyday acceptance.
“We are here to lead the
celebration and give a voice
to everyone underneath the
rainbow umbrella, highlighting
who we are and who we are
proud to be. We are here to run
a parade that becomes a focal
point of Rainbow communities
in New Zealand.
“The result will be a worldclass
event that draws attention
from on and offshore audiences,
showcasing our broad identity
to all the community," says an
organiser.

Read online www.iwk.co.nz Friday, 16 February, 2024
NEW ZEALAND 9
Sunidhi Chauhan
brings Bollywood
to Auckland
IWK BUREAU
The Trusts Arena in Auckland
pulsated with excitement
on the evening of February
10, 2024, as the iconic Bollywood
singer Sunidhi Chauhan returned
to New Zealand after a decade.
The air was charged with
anticipation, and the venue,
organised by Lovedeep from
Blackstone Productions, was
abuzz with at least 2,500 eager
fans who had gathered for a night
of musical extravaganza.
Lovedeep, the key force behind
bringing Sunidhi Chauhan to
Auckland, expressed his pride and
privilege in hosting the event.
"We are proud and privileged to
have brought Sunidhi’s live event
to Auckland. We can’t wait for her
next event. We are very thankful
for the support New Zealand has
shown towards this event.
"We had attendees from all
over the country who came and
enjoyed the show. We are getting
messages from the attendees
about how much they enjoyed
seeing her performing as well as
the production."
The concert, spanning an
electrifying two hours and 50
minutes, was a testament to
Sunidhi's unparalleled talent and
the unifying power of music.
The stage was set, bathed in
a kaleidoscope of lights, as
Sunidhi made a grand entrance,
her presence commanding the
attention of every soul in the arena.
Sunidhi's performance was a
seamless blend of old classics
and contemporary hits, taking the
audience on a musical journey that
transcended time.
A standout moment of the night
was Sunidhi's rendition of Punjabi
songs she had sung in Bollywood
movies. The beats of the dhol
reverberated through the arena,
infusing the atmosphere with the
infectious energy of Punjabi folk
music. The crowd, regardless of
their background, joined in the
celebration, dancing to the rhythm
of Sunidhi's soulful Punjabi tunes.
In a moment of connection with
her fans, Sunidhi expressed her
joy and excitement at the turnout.
"I am so happy and excited to see
the crowd turnout. I promise I will
come back again soon."
As the applause echoed through
the arena, the sentiment of the
evening was best captured by
a guest, Mitika Roberts, who
exclaimed, "Such an awesome
show. Incredible performance.
An amazing evening. Non-stop
entertainment by Sunidhi Chauhan
- I AM HOME [Auckland]. Thank you
for the most remarkable evening."
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10
NEW ZEALAND
• Continued from Page 1
The journey unfolds through
the vibrant tapestry of New Delhi,
Kurukshetra, Rishikesh, Haridwar,
Mathura, Vrindavan, Agra, Prayag
Raj, Kashi (Varanasi), Sarnath, and
Ayodhya, culminating back in the
bustling heart of New Delhi, say
organisers.
Pilgrims will meet spiritual
luminaries such as Sadhvi
Ritambhara, Yoga guru Baba
Ramdev, Swami Chidanand Muni,
and Dr. Chinmay Pandya.
“Highlights of the sacred
voyage include VIP Darshan at
the Kashi Vishwanath Temple
and Akshardham Temple, Ganga
Aarti in Rishikesh and Varanasi,
a holy dip in the Triveni Sangam,
Holi celebration in Varanasi,
and engaging press meets in
Rishikesh and Varanasi,” says
Guna Magesan, President of Hindu
Council of New Zealand.
The estimated expenses for the
two-week pilgrimage, covering
travel, accommodation, and
meals, would be about NZ$ 1,800
per person, which organisers say
must be paid to Hindu Council of
New Zealand (Account 03 1555
0054234 00).
For more information, call at +64
210 345 621, or email hindu.nz@
gmail.com.
“Any amount remaining will be
returned to pilgrims or given to a
charity.
Please note that international
airfare (about $2,000), must be
paid to the travel agent directly in
New Zealand,” Magesan says.
The delegation will have 25
to 30 participants, and with
over 50% of spaces already
confirmed, organisers say they are
anticipating high demand for the
remaining slots.
Tentative Programme
March 14-15: Delhi
March 16: Kurukshetra
March 17-18: Rishikesh
Friday, 16 February, 2024
NZ-India spiritual tour: Full
itinerary, registration details
March 19: Haridwar
March 20-21: Vrindavan
March 22: Mathura and Agra
March 23-24: Varanasi and
Sarnath
March 25-26: Ayodhya
March 27: Lucknow
March 28: Evening flight to New
Zealand from Delhi
Probasee bring back 'Spirit of
Cricket 2023-24' cup home
IWK BUREAU
Probasee emerged victorious
in the Spirit of Cricket
tournament on Sunday,
February 11, defeating the Deccan
Acers by a narrow margin of 7 runs
at Mount Wellington War Memorial
Reserve.
Sponsored by Relianz Forex, this
tournament has been a cherished
tradition for 26 years, played with
an incrediball over a 20-over
format.
Opting to bat first after winning
the toss, Probasee faced a tough
challenge against the accurate
bowling of the Deccan Acers.
Despite the pressure, contributions
from Nishant Murali (8), Sai Karnan
(7), and captain Rahul Banerjee (7)
helped Probasee post a modest
total of 52 runs before being
bowled out in the 18th over.
Probasee's bowlers started
strongly, led by Rohan Kundu and
Kartik Banerjee, who restricted
Deccan to 11-3 after 8 overs with
disciplined bowling. Shovik Nandi
maintained the pressure with a
stellar performance, claiming 3
wickets for 11 runs.
Tushar Bhowmik and Nishant
Murali also made crucial
breakthroughs, securing victory for
Probasee with their bowling figures
of 2-9 and 0-12 respectively.
The triumph in the final
epitomized Probasee's season,
marked by a collective team effort.
While Anshuman Bhaduri
received the individual award for
best fielder, the season witnessed
various players stepping up
at different stages. Having
Probasee celebrating three wins: 2004, 2018, and 2024
participated in the tournament
since its inception, Probasee
boasts a rich history, reaching a
total of 7 finals and clinching the
cup 3 times, in 2004, 2018, and
2024. This year, the team received
support from K2 Consultants, Mai
Trip, ACMI, and Netbridge.
For Probasee members, the
tournament holds a special
significance, bringing the
community together. Originating
from Bengalis living outside
Bengal in India, the team garnered
enthusiastic support from a large
crowd during the grand final,
which undoubtedly played a role
in their victory.
Read online www.iwk.co.nz
Sona Sansaar robbery:
Shoppers rescued in
movie-style scenes
IWK BUREAU
A
jewellery store
heist, shoppers
in panic, and
quick-thinking staff
– scenes at Sona
Sansaar’s Papatoetoe
outlet were straight out
of a movie this Sunday.
On February 11,
the usual weekend hustle and
bustle at the jewellery store in
South Auckland was broken when
robbers barged in at about 4pm.
They began smashing glass
cabinets and looting jewellery as
guests looked on in horror, says a
member of the store management
who didn’t wish to be named.
“Unlike what most media outlets
reported, we actually had quite
a few shoppers inside the store
when it happened.”
But the commotion didn’t scare
the staff members –two women
and a man.
The three swung into action
even as the robbers went about
plundering the store.
“We have a big vault at the
store where we keep all the
jewellery. Usually shoppers are
not allowed to go in. But this was
an emergency.
The staff rushed the guests
IWK BUREAU
Get ready to tickle your taste
buds as the NZ Kannada
Koota's legendary Dosa
Camp makes its comeback! Mark
your calendars as Koota has
organised a fundraising event on
the coming Saturday, February 17.
Head down to Western Bays Sea
Scouts, 16-18 Griffin Park Road,
Mount Roskill.
With ample parking and the vent
timings are from 10:30 am to 3:00
pm.
This event welcomes all to
partake in a celebration of Indian
heritage and community spirit.
Attendees can relish the flavors
of freshly prepared dosas expertly
crafted by 15 chefs , all while
connecting with fellow community
members.
The aim of the fundraiser
is to continue meaningful
inside the vault and locked it, to
make sure no one was hurt in
the panic that ensued,” says the
management member.
The courageous staff members
took some time off from work
after the scare, and were
unreachable for comment when
The Indian Weekender tried to
contact them on February 13.
Two days after the incident,
the police were still looking for
the robbers, who dropped several
jewellery items they stole while
fleeing the store.
“It seems some items fell from
their hands and bags.
"The police have recovered
those but they are not of
much use to us since they are
damaged,” says the staff member.
The store management says
it will take time to assess the
damage and put a value to the
loss.
Dosa for good: NZ
Kannada Koota's
fundraiser event is back
community activities
and empower the next
generation of Kiwi Kannadigas!
Proceeds from the fundraiser
will support the Kannada Shaale
program, an initiative by the
NZ Kannada Koota aimed at
teaching Kannada language and
culture to younger generations.
By participating in the event,
attendees contribute to the
preservation of Kannada heritage
and support the cultural education
of children in the community.
Registration for the event is
open to all and can be done
through the Facebook event
page here.
The Dosa Camp presents an
opportunity for people to come
together, enjoy delicious food, and
support a meaningful cause. So
come one, come all, and join for
a day filled with flavor, fun, and
fundraising. See you there!

Read online www.iwk.co.nz Friday, 16 February, 2024
NEW ZEALAND 11
Prayas Theatre enacts
Śūdraka's 'Mricchakatika'
ANANDITAA
Prayas Theatre, New
Zealand's largest South
Asian theatre group,
recently staged 'Mricchakatika', a
Sanskrit play by Śūdraka, at The
Auckland Performing Arts Centre.
Set in the monarchic era of
Ujjayinī in the 5th century CE,
this production became my
fortunate endeavour. While
reading the script by playwright
Shekinah Jacob, visuals of the
1984 Bollywood movie ‘Utsav’
flooded back. This film, directed
by Girish Karnad, produced by
Shashi Kapoor and starring Rekha,
beautifully depicted the richness
of ancient Indian literature.
Boasting a global performance
history since the 19th century,
'Mricchakatika' has translations
dating back to 1826 by Horace
Hayman Wilson as 'The Toy
Cart' and A.F Stenzler's German
translation in 1847.
It found its way into Bengali and
Marathi, and in 1850, 'Le Chariot
d'enfant' premiered in Paris.
Renowned artists, including Raja
Ravi Varma, featured the central
character, Vasantsena, in their art.
The story follows the journey
of Vasantsena, a captivating
courtesan or nagarvadhu, and
Charudatta, a destitute young
nobleman. Despite their mutual
passion, their lives and love
encounter threats from the
persistent advances of a vulgar
courtier, Samsthanaka.
Amid intricate relationships,
love, loyalty, politics and humour,
their story unfolds against the
backdrop of a revolution seeking
to overthrow an unjust, tyrannical
King Pālaka.
This age-old story, like
Shakespeare's but written over
two millennia ago, remains
relevant in the cultural milieu of
2023 New Zealand, reflecting on
universal human experiences,
making it a timeless tale, even
for those unfamiliar with Indian
culture.
Imagine a world where
sexuality is openly embraced
and celebrated. Perhaps, in
a world where courtesans or
devadasis mirrored the 'myth' of
Apsaras as beautiful and erotic
manifestations of pleasure.
This was ancient India, circa
500 BC. Women, affluent,
educated and masters of the arts,
stood as custodians of temples
and traditions, their lives entwined
with the divine, shielded from the
shadow of widowhood — making
them akhanda saubhagyavati.
One such example was Amrapali,
the royal nagarvadhu of Vaishali.
However, history turned its
pages to the medieval era,
marking the eclipse of this
revered tradition. The onslaught
by Islamic
invaders laid
waste to
temples —
sanctuaries
of these
devadasis,
marking the
beginning of
their decline.
The British
colonial period
further exacerbated their plight,
conflating them with prostitution,
leading to their marginalisation
and ostracisation.
Similarly, until the Vedic era,
gender-based discrimination
was nonexistent. Archaeological
excavations present evidence of
Goddess worship dating back
to the Vedic era. Yet again, a
melancholic shift ensued toward
the medieval period, marred by
foreign invasions.
Choosing this subject was not
an inclination to dwell in the past
but an expression of increasing
recognition of the significance
of intercultural exchange and
dialogue. The prospect of ancient
literature gaining relevance
stimulates collective learning,
growth and connection.
It’s not just Indian culture that
offers us such treasures. Māori
Kiwi-Punjabis get a film on
their life in South Auckland
T
he first Punjabi language
film to be submitted as
doctoral research in New
Zealand is shining a light on South
Auckland’s migrant community.
Director Asim It took Mukhtar, a
Punjabi filmmaker from Pakistan,
four years to finish his doctoral
film. The documentary tells
eight stories about the Punjabi
community from India and
Pakistan living in harmony in
South Auckland.
"This (film) is about the
community, and without the
Punjabi community's support…
making Sanjha Punjab would be
impossible," Mukhtar says.
The stories delve into how
migrant Punjabis from the
subcontinent are mending their
relationships after almost 80 years
of being separated by a militarised
border in their home countries.
In 1947, when India gained
freedom from British rule, the
subcontinent was divided into two
independent nations: a Hindumajority
India and a Muslimmajority
Pakistan.
This partition triggered one
of the largest migrations in
human history, with millions of
Muslims moving to West and East
Pakistan (present-day Pakistan
and Bangladesh) and millions of
Hindus and Sikhs migrating in
the opposite direction. This event
became known as the "Partition of
India".
The partition remains one of the
darkest chapters in the history of
India and Pakistan, resulting in
the separation and displacement
of numerous families, including
communities in the Punjab region.
The film showcases typical
Punjabi cultural activities, such
as sharing poetry, attending
places of worship, enjoying tea
over the conversation at Punjabi
restaurants, singing folk and Sufi
songs, performing traditional
dances like ‘jhoomar’, and
migrants making return visits to
Punjab.
The doctoral film is also the first
to show the Indian Punjabi and
Pakistani Punjabi communities
in New Zealand living alongside
each other, portraying everyday
"It’s not just Indian
culture that offers us
such treasures. Māori
culture has a rich and
diverse collection
of equally valuable
stories."
scenes of their shared culture,
language and heritage being
restored through friendly social
interactions.
"This is a fascinating film and an
amazing achievement," says AUT
senior lecturer Teena Brown Pulu.
"It's the first Punjabi PhD to be
produced in the mother tongue
in the world and it came out from
South Auckland," she says.
Before submitting his film and
exegesis for examination, Mukhtar
hosted a community screening
for the cast and crew at Nathan
Homestead in Manurewa.
"Stories like this are important
because often they're not
showcased," says professor Pare
Keiha from the Auckland University
of Technology.
Arthur W. Ryder’s translation of Mricchakatika to English in 1905 continues to be one of the
most popular.
culture has a rich and diverse
collection of equally valuable
stories.
Stories that have the power to
inspire us, teach us and help us
understand the world in new and
profound ways, stories that should
IWK BUREAU
Stand-up comedian Aakash
Gupta is returning with
his new show, "The Brand
New Show." Show organisers
Bollysphere have stated that they
are "proud to be bringing Indian
comedy to the Bruce Mason Centre
for the first time. An Indian comic
will be performing at this venue for
the first time."
Aakash Gupta gained fame
as the co-winner of Amazon
Prime's "Comicstaan Season 2."
He is a sensation on the internet,
known for his stand-up videos on
YouTube and his highly acclaimed
stage performances.
Born and raised in Delhi's Sarojini
Nagar, Aakash discovered his
passion for theatre during college.
Despite starting a corporate job
after graduation, he continued to
pursue theatre, eventually leaving
his job to explore different forms
of theatre, including comedy and
improvisational theatre.
Aakash's journey into stand-up
be discussed, danced to, sung and
passed on through generations as
precious and incredible sources of
knowledge and inspiration.
The author is a Mumbai-based
producer and actor, and
producer of ‘The Clay Cart-
Mricchakatika’.
Comedian Aakash Gupta returns with
'The Brand New Show' in Auckland
comedy began with an open mic
performance at Akshara Theatre,
Delhi, in 2014.
He released his first stand-up
video on YouTube in 2017, which
propelled him to fame. Since
then, he has produced numerous
videos and was the co-winner
of "Comicstaan Season 2" with
Samay Raina.
His stand-up video "Sarojini
Nagar" was the first Indian standup
video to trend at number 1 on
YouTube.
He has also appeared on a
comedy reality show on Amazon
alongside Sunil Grover, Kusha
Kapila, Gaurav Gera, Mallika Dua,
Cyrus Broacha, among others.
"We are very excited and have
lined up a lot of artists in the
coming months, including the likes
of Amit Tandon, Anubhav Singh
Bassi and Abhishek Upmanyu",
said show organisers Bollysphere.
So, save the date to watch Akash
Gupta live at Takapuna Beach, NZ,
Bruce Mason Centre, Auckland, on
24 February 2024, at 7.45pm.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK
"Every part of the time that God has given me and
the body that God has given me are all for Mother
India.” - Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Editorial
Visa stutters stalling
NZ’s education push
In a bid to revive its education sector post-Covid, the New Zealand government has been
making significant efforts to attract overseas students. A recent high-level delegation,
comprising members from New Zealand universities and Education New Zealand,
visited India to explore collaboration opportunities and strengthen the internationalisation
of education.
However, the enthusiasm to welcome foreign students is being hampered by the
excruciatingly slow immigration processes, leading to frustrating delays in the approval of
student visa applications.
The delegation's efforts to foster collaboration and dialogue on student mobility are
commendable, but the success of such initiatives relies heavily on the efficiency of the visa
approval system.
Immigration advisers are increasingly vocal about the alarming delays in procuring visas
for overseas students, a situation that not only jeopardises the future of applicants but also
poses a significant threat to educational institutions, particularly those with limited annual
intakes.
The official advice from Immigration New Zealand (INZ) suggests applying six weeks
in advance, but reports indicate this timeframe is not consistently met, diminishing New
Zealand's competitiveness in the global overseas student market.
Some advisers say they have applications pending since November 2023. This delay is
particularly concerning for students enrolled in highly specialised courses with only one
intake per year. The controversy stirred up by INZ's advisory in November, suggesting
international students apply four months in advance, further adds to the confusion and
frustration.
Advisers are even pointing out that student visa applications are being rejected due to
unclear reasons, primarily related to evidence of funding. Some say inadequate training of
INZ officers could be a contributing factor to these delays.
The impact of these delays extends beyond individual students, affecting the reputation
and financial stability of educational institutions, some of whom have lately had to delay
their intakes by weeks.
Limited intakes and unpredictable visa processing times also create an environment of
uncertainty that discourages prospective students from choosing New Zealand as their
study destination. This, in turn, threatens the economic contribution of the education sector,
a vital component of New Zealand's economy.
While New Zealand grapples with visa processing delays, its counterparts, Australia
and Canada, have swiftly adapted to the post-Covid landscape by streamlining their visa
processes, securing their positions as attractive study destinations for Indian students.
Australia, in particular, has been proactive in addressing visa challenges. Recognising
the critical role international students play in their economy, the Australian government
has implemented measures to expedite visa processing. Streamlined online applications,
dedicated processing channels for student visas, and a commitment to timely decisionmaking
have significantly reduced waiting times for Indian students aspiring to study Down
Under. Similarly, Canada, another traditional favorite among Indian students, has successfully
revamped its visa procedures. The introduction of the Student Direct Stream expedites the
processing of study permits for students from select countries, including India. It ensures
faster turnaround times, providing a competitive edge in attracting international students.
These strategic moves by Australia and Canada showcase a commitment to creating an
education-friendly environment that extends beyond academic excellence.
The streamlined visa processes not only ease the journey for prospective students but
also bolster the global reputation of these countries as hospitable and efficient study
destinations.
As New Zealand endeavors to regain its foothold in the international education market,
it must take a cue from the practices adopted by its counterparts. Embracing technology,
refining visa application procedures, and implementing efficient processing mechanisms
are imperative steps for New Zealand to remain competitive and fulfill its aspirations of
becoming a top-tier destination for international students. The success stories of Australia
and Canada serve as beacons, guiding New Zealand toward a more seamless and studentfriendly
visa application process.
To sustain its high marketing pitch and capitalise on the collaborative efforts with
countries like India, New Zealand must urgently streamline the full value chain of the
education industry.
This involves addressing the root causes of visa processing delays, enhancing training for
INZ officers, and establishing a more efficient and transparent system.
A proactive approach is crucial to maintaining New Zealand's appeal as a study
destination. The government, in collaboration with immigration authorities, must reevaluate
the current visa processing procedures and work towards a system that aligns with the
country's ambitious goals for international student enrollment.
Additionally, open communication channels between immigration authorities, educational
institutions, and immigration advisers can facilitate a better understanding of the challenges
and streamline the resolution of visa-related issues.
The government's commitment to fostering international collaborations should be
complemented by an equally committed effort to remove bureaucratic obstacles hindering
the seamless entry of overseas students.
While New Zealand's efforts to revitalise its education sector through international
collaborations are commendable, only through a concerted effort to enhance efficiency and
transparency in the immigration processes can New Zealand continue to position itself as a
welcoming and competitive destination for overseas students.
IN FOCUS : Picture of the week
Prime Minister Narendra Modi poses for a picture during the inauguration of the
Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Temple, in Abu
Dhabi on Wednesday. (ANI)
This week in New Zealand’s history
16 February 1770
Cook sights Banks 'Island'
Lieutenant James Cook concluded that the land he had sighted was an island and named
it after the expedition’s botanist, Joseph Banks. The mistake was not realised until 1809,
when Captain Samuel Chase of the Pegasus tried to sail between Banks ‘Island’ and the
Canterbury mainland.
16 February 1986
Sinking of the Mikhail Lermontov
At 5.37 p.m. on 16 February 1986, the Soviet cruise liner Mikhail Lermontov hit rocks off
Cape Jackson in the Marlborough Sounds.
18 February 1957
New Zealand's last execution
Walter Bolton, a 68-year-old Whanganui farmer, became the last person executed in New
Zealand. Convicted for the murder of his wife, Beatrice, he was hanged at Mt Eden
prison following a controversial trial.
21 February 1879
Kaitangata mining disaster
On the morning of 21 February 1879, an explosion rocked the coal mine at Kaitangata,
South Otago.
22 February 1902
Kelburn cable car opens
Wellingtonians flocked in thousands to try out the new cable car service between
Lambton Quay and Kelburn when it opened for business in February 1902.
22 February 2011
Christchurch earthquake kills 185
At 12.51 p.m. on Tuesday 22 February 2011, a magnitude 6.3 earthquake caused severe
damage in Christchurch and Lyttelton, killing 185 people and injuring several thousand.
Indian Weekender : Volume 15 Issue 45
Publisher: Kiwi Media Publishing Limited
Editor: Dev Nadkarni | dev@indianweekender.co.nz
General Manager: Ravi Bajpai | 020 441 2233 | ravi@indianweekender.co.nz
Graphic Designer: Yashmin Chand | design@indianweekender.co.nz
Multimedia Specialist: Karan Bhasin | 022 0772 156 | karan@indianweekender.co.nz
Accounts and Admin.: 09-2173623 | accounts@indianweekender.co.nz
Auckland Reporter: Navdeep Kaur Marwah: | 021 952 246 | navdeep@indianweekender.co.nz
Views expressed in the publication are not necessarily of the publisher and the publisher
is not responsible for advertisers’ claims as appearing in the publication
Views expressed in the articles are solely of the authors and do not in any way represent
the views of the team at the Indian Weekender
Kiwi Media Publishing Limited - 133A, Level 1, Onehunga Mall, Onehunga, Auckland.
Printed at NZME, Auckland, New Zealand.
Copyright ® 2022. Kiwi Media Publishing Limited. All Rights Reserved.
Send your suggestions and feedback to editor@indianweekender.co.nz

Read online www.iwk.co.nz Friday, 16 February, 2024
FIJI 13
Immigration
warns of ‘too
good to be true’
job offers
Immigration New Zealand is
urging migrant workers in New
Zealand to educate their family
and friends overseas on how to
spot potential immigration scams.
Immigration staff are in regular
contact with ethnic community
leaders, and one common question
is what advice they can give people,
so they don’t get taken advantage
of by unscrupulous individuals
looking to profit off peoples’
desires to work in New Zealand.
Senior Investigator Helen
Garratt says immigration scams
are nothing new but with the rise
of social media including apps like
WhatsApp it’s easy for people to
get pulled into a scam.
Garratt says the general rule is if
someone is offering a job in New
Zealand and it sounds too good to
be true, then it probably is.
However, Garratt says there are
a few hallmarks of scams that
people can look out for to protect
themselves.
Fiji establishes cybersecurity partnership
Fiji and Australia are set
to embark on a strategic
collaboration in the realm
of cybersecurity following the
approval of a Memorandum of
Understanding by the Cabinet.
The government stresses the
gravity of cybersecurity as a
pervasive national concern that
cuts across various domains.
Currently, the stewardship of
information and communication
technologies and online safety
laws, including the Cybercrime
Act 2021, falls under the
purview of the Minister Manoa
Kamikamica who is responsible
for Communications.
The initiative extends to relevant
agencies with the Ministry of
Home Affairs and Immigration
participating in capacity building
and other cybersecurity-related
endeavors.
This cybersecurity cooperation
with Australia encompasses
several key areas.
Firstly, it involves the
development of a comprehensive
Computer Emergency Response
Team Study Report and the
subsequent operationalization of
the CERT.
It also aims to formulate a
National Cybersecurity Strategy,
fostering technical cooperation
on cybersecurity concerning
government infrastructure.
Prasad thanks India for unwavering support
Deputy Prime Minister
Professor Biman Prasad
has thanked the Indian
Government for their unwavering
support and cooperation with Fiji.
During his meeting with India’s
Minister for External Affairs, Dr. S
Jaishankar, the Minister of State
in External Affairs, Dr. Rajkumar
Ranjan Singh he reaffirmed
the Coalition Government’s
commitment to develop
meaningful and deeper ties with
India.
He has noted that for the past
year, Fiji and India have held
multiple high-level discussions
in Delhi and in Bangalore which
was followed by India’s Foreign
Minister’s visit to Fiji for the World
Hindi Conference.
Prasad told the leaders that
work on Fiji’s 100-bed tertiary
care hospital which is supported
by India is expected to begin soon.
Discussions between the
ministers also focused on
potential future bilateral
cooperation in area of
health, tourism, economic
development, capacity building
and development, cultural
development, education,
curriculum development and
renewable energy transition.
Prasad thanked the Indian
Government for its continued
support and commitment over the
years including, vaccines, disaster
reliefs, education and training, and
MSME business grant support.
Prasad has also met with the
Vice Chair of National Institution
for Transforming India (NITI
Aayog), Suman Berry yesterday in
New Delhi.
He highlighted the development
challenges Fiji faces as a small
island nation and how NITI Aayog
can assist in strengthening the
Strategic Planning Office, within
the Ministry of Finance.
During the week, Prasad
will attend the Global South
Ministerial Energy Roundtable and
high-level panel discussion.
He will also attend Energy
Week India where they will hold
discussions on decarbonization of
economies.
Prasad will hold meetings in
Gujarat with potential investors
and also visit Ayodhya.
For all your digital and print advertising requirements,
call us on 020 441 2233 / 0223078920 Or email at
sales@indianweekender.co.nz / ravi@indianweekender.co.nz

14
INDIA
Friday, 16 February, 2024
'I guarantee to make India
third largest economy in
my third term': PM Modi
Exuding confidence of returning to
power in the forthcoming Lok Sabha
elections, Prime Minister Narendra
Modi said that he has given a "guarantee" to
make India the third largest economy in his
third term.
Highlighting the multiple
accomplishments achieved by the country,
the PM said every Indian has the goal of
making India a developed nation by 2047.
Addressing the 'Ahlan Modi' event, PM
Modi said, "I have so much faith in the
potential of each and every Indian, weighing
on which, Modi has given a guarantee that
in his third term he will make India the third
largest economy. Modi ki guarantee, yani
guarantee, pura hone ki guarantee."
"Today, the goal of every Indian is to make
India a developed country by
2047," he added.
PM Modi highlighted that India is the first
country to reach Mars in the first attempt,
and land on the south pole of the moon.
He also said that India is number one in
Fintech adoption rate and has the world's
third largest start-up ecosystem.
"Which is that country whose economy is
progressing rapidly? Which country has the
world's third-largest start-up ecosystem?
Our India. Which country is at the number
one position in fintech adoption rate?
Which country is the largest milk
Prime Minister Narendra Modi waves to the people gathered during the 'Ahlan Modi' event at the Zayed Sports
Stadium, in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.
producer? Which country is at number two
among internet users? Which country is
the world's second largest mobile phone
manufacturer? Which country has the
world's third largest start-up ecosystem.
Our India,"
PM Modi said. He added,
"Which country reached Mars in its very
first attempt? Our India. Which country
reached the lunar south pole? Our India.
Which country set the record for launching
100 satellites simultaneously? Our India.
Which country developed 5G technology on
its own and rolled it out the quickest? Our
India."
Prime Minister Modi is in the UAE
from February 13-14, after which he will
proceed to Doha. He will inaugurate BAPS
Mandir, the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi
tomorrow. (ANI)
President Murmu gives assent to Bill aimed at
checking malpractices in entrance examinations
President Daroupadi Murmu has given
her nod to the Public Examinations
(Prevention of Unfair Means), Bill,
2024, which aims to check cheating in
government recruitment exams.
The Bill was passed by the two Houses
of Parliament in the Budget session
which concluded on February 10. It seeks
to prevent the use of "unfair means" in
public examinations and bring "greater
transparency, fairness and credibility".
It got the President's approval on Monday
and shall come into force on a date decided
by the Central Government by notification in
the Official Gazette.
The Bill, which has become an Act now
with the President's nod, defines several
offences in relation to public examinations.
The public examinations in the Act refer
to examinations conducted by authorities
notified by the central government.
These include Union Public Service
Commission, Staff Selection Commission,
Railway Recruitment Board, National
Testing Agency, Institute of Banking
Personnel Selection, and Departments of
the central government and their attached
Read online www.iwk.co.nz
Yogi govt set to organise 4-day International Arogya-24 meet from February 22
The Yogi government is set to host the
prestigious four-day International
Arogya 2024 conference, themed
'AYUSH for One Health,' aimed at
spotlighting the transformative shifts within
the AYUSH sector and fortifying public
health. Scheduled to commence on February
22 at Awadh Shilpgram, the event will
encompass international exhibitions and
conferences showcasing advancements in
the AYUSH domain, with participation from
representatives hailing from over 60 nations.
Leena Johari, Secretary of the Department
offices for recruitment.
It prohibits collusion or conspiracy to
facilitate indulgence in any unfair means.
It specifies unfair means to include
unauthorised access or leakage of question
paper or answer key, assisting a candidate
during a public examination, tampering with
computer network or resources, tampering
with documents for shortlisting or finalising
of merit list or rank, and conducting fake
of AYUSH, expressed that the International
Arogya 2024 conference seeks to bolster
examination, issuing fake admit cards or
offer letters to cheat, for monetary gain.
The Act also prohibits disclosing examrelated
confidential information before time,
and unauthorised people from entering
exam centres to create disruptions.
The offences will be punishable with
imprisonment between three and five years,
and a fine up to Rs 10 lakh.
In the event of a violation of provisions
of the Act, service providers must
report to the police and the concerned
examination authority. A service provider
is an organisation that provides computer
resources or any other support to a public
examination authority. Failure to report
such incidents will be an offence, according
to a Law Ministry notification.
In case, the service providers themselves
commit an offence, the examination
authority must report it to the police.
The legislation prohibits service
providers from shifting the exam centre
without permission from the examination
authority. An offence by a service provider
will be punishable with a fine of up to
one crore rupees.
public health endeavors, advocate AYUSH
practices, and foster awareness among
citizens. The event is jointly organized by
the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India,
and the Federation of Indian Chambers of
Commerce and Industry (FICCI).
Under the overarching theme 'AYUSH for
One Health,' the conference aims to spotlight
the efficacy and scientific validation of
traditional Indian medical systems, including
Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha,
Sowa-Rigpa, and Homeopathy (AYUSH).
This platform endeavors to propel the global
Bihar government
triumphs in floor
test, JD(U), BJP slam
Tejashwi Yadav
After the Bihar government won the
floor test, Janata Dal (United) and
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders
launched a scathing attack on Rashtriya
Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav.
The Janata Dal (United) leader Neeraj,
talking about the floor test, stated, "Every
claim of the opposition was thoroughly
examined, but in the electoral test, Chief
Minister Nitish Kumar's government
succeeded, proving that they effectively
countered every challenge posed by the
opposition."
When asked about Tejashwi Yadav's
statement on JDU MLA, Bihar JDU leader
Neeraj Kumar stated that this question
would also apply to Tejashwi Yadav, whose
mandate the people favoured in 2020 and
how he joined the government.
"Regarding job appointments, especially
in the education sector, it was revealed that
the teachers appointed by you (Tejashwi
Yadav) don't even visit the office. So how
are you taking credit?
The credit goes to the government, and it
speaks for the work in every village under
the leadership of Nitish Kumar."
On being asked about three RJD leaders
switching sides, he explained that the
pressure from within the RJD led them to
change their allegiance. He emphasized
that it's not about the RJD MLAs not
adhering to the order issued by their party
but rather acknowledging reality.
This shift occurred because, in their
constituencies, people appreciated the work
done by Nitish Kumar, and they decided to
align with him.
Regarding the ex-RJD leader Jayant
Choudhary joining the NDA alliance,
the JDU leader stated that it's a natural
process, diverging from the
Congress's rigidity.
The political conduct of the Congress is
such that, naturally, members will move
away from the Akhil Bharatiya Loktantrik
Congress party, contributing to the decline
of the INDI alliance and the growth of the
National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
He added, " The INDI alliance is
weakening and will continue to weaken."
On being asked about the incident in
Gopalganj, where the General Secretary
of the district was shot dead, the JDU
leader stated, "The incident in Gopalganj is
shocking, and an SIT (Special Investigation
Team) has been formed. Whoever is
responsible will be brought to justice
through legal proceedings."
Meanwhile, BJP leader Hari Bhushan
Thakur, commenting on the Bihar floor test,
stated, "Look, if you delve into this, even the
global 2020 verdict reflects that the alliance
favoured by the people of Bihar has once
again emerged.
Therefore, this is not a trivial matter,
Nitish Ji's established majority is evident.
Hence, heartfelt thanks to all NDA
legislators, and once again, Bihar will
embark on the path of development. We
have full confidence in that."
promotion, development, and acceptance of
AYUSH medicine through comprehensive
discussions across various sessions.
The Ministry of AYUSH is actively
spearheading initiatives for the
advancement of the health and wellness
sector. In collaboration with the World Health
Organization, the Ministry has achieved a
significant milestone with the release of ICD
11, Chapter 26, Module 2. Prime Minister
Narendra Modi acknowledged this global
achievement in his 'Mann Ki Baat' address
on January 28.

Read online www.iwk.co.nz Friday, 16 February, 2024
WORLD 15
Burj Khalifa lit in the colours of the Indian flag during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's
visit this week for World Government Summit 2024. (ANI)
Acknowledging that trade in
goods between New Delhi
and Wellington is "pretty low,"
New Zealand's High Commissioner
to India, David Pine said on Tuesday
that both nations are working to
address the trade barriers and find
ways to stimulate the demands.
The bilateral trade between
India and New Zealand stood at
USD 1 billion in 2022-23. India
is New Zealand's 11th largest
trading partner.
Speaking to ANI, Pine stated
that the governments of both
nations feel "a lot better could be
done," highlighting that the current
focus is on bringing together the
business groups of two countries
so that they can identify the
opportunity for trade.
"Trade in goods between the
two countries is still pretty low. It's
about a billion dollars a year in both
directions. And both governments
often feel that we could be doing
a lot better. So the first thing we
are really focusing on is actually
getting the business groups talking
to each other. So getting them
together into more regular habits of
dialogue," he said.
India primarily imports logs and
forestry products, wood pulp, wool
and edible fruit and nuts from New
Zealand. Indian exports to New
Zealand are mostly pharmaceuticals
US has great military-to-military
relationship with India: Pentagon
India, New Zealand working
to address trade barriers:
NZ envoy David Pine
and medications, precious metals
and gems, textiles and motor
vehicles and non-knitted apparel
and accessories.
"We've done a lot of work on
regulations that were affecting our
exports of logs to India, making sure
that India's very legitimate concerns
that wood come to you without
introducing the pests and making
sure those," he said, when asked
what is being done to remove the
trade barriers.
"We have done similar work
to allow Indian mangoes to be
expected or exported to New
Zealand, which I'm pretty happy
about when I go home. I'll be able to
have nice things," he added.
Smart
parking meters
Coming to the central city
The High Commissioner informed
that India and New Zealand's joint
trade committee will meet soon in
New Zealand to further discuss the
matter of trade barriers. The dates
of the meeting are being finalised,
Pine told ANI.
"I think we will address
systematically, how we stimulate
demand. How do we make sure
our business people are getting to
know each other better? So we're
going to try to run those joint trade
committees in the future together
at the same time as meetings of
business organizations and really
lift the profile and get people to
focus on the real potential of the
economic relationship," he added.
The Joint Trade Committee
(JTC) was established under
the 1986 India-New Zealand
Trade Agreement.
Last year, in December, Union
Minister of Commerce Piyush
Goyal held a bilateral meeting with
his New Zealand counterpart Todd
McClay to strengthen trade relations
between India and New Zealand and
explore opportunities for mutual
growth and cooperation.
During the meeting, Minister
Goyal and Minister McClay
recognized the importance of trade
facilitation and discussed measures
to streamline trade processes and
reduce trade barriers.
Touch-screen | payWave | ticketless
India and the US have a great militaryto-military
relationship and good
communication with each other, the
Pentagon's Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina
Singh said in a press briefing on Tuesday
(local time).
"We have a great military-tomilitary
relationship with India, good
communications. We're going to continue to
monitor what's happening in the region, but
I don't have more to share on any updates,"
she said.
Speaking about expecting a high level
visit from India, Sabrina Singh said, "I don't
have any visits to read out from officials
from the Indian Government. At least here
at the department. I can't speak for other
officials across the interagency."
Asked whether the Pentagon is
monitoring the situation in Pakistan
after the elections held on February 8,
Sabrina Singh said, "Yeah, we're certainly
monitoring what's happening there, but I'd
direct you to state for more specifics on
that."
Sabrina Singh's remarks regarding
the military relations between India and
Pakistan come at a time when the Chief of
Army Staff, General Manoj Pande embarked
on a four-day official tour to the US, starting
February 13, an official statement from the
Ministry of Defence said on Monday.
In a press release, the Ministry of Defence
said, "During his visit, the COAS will engage
in high-level discussions and interactions
with General Randy George, United States
Chief of Staff of the Army (CSA) and other
senior military leaders."
"Highlights of the tour include a
prestigious US Army Honour Guard
ceremony, a solemn laying of the wreath
at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
in Arlington National Cemetery, and a
comprehensive tour of the Pentagon.
These engagements symbolise the respect
and mutual commitment towards global
peace and security shared between the two
countries," it added.
Register
and pay for
your parking
at the meter, or
download the
PayMyPark app
for payment on
the go.
For a step-by-step guide on
how to use the meters, visit
hamilton.govt.nz/parking
HamiltonCityCouncil
07 838 6699
info@hcc.govt.nz

16
TIME OUT
i FreeDailyCrosswords.com
ACROSS-----------
1) "Brian's Song" star James
5) Comes out of one's skin
10) Self-congratulatory
14) Radius' comrade-in-arms?
15) Youngest-ever Oscar
winner
16) Folkestone farewell
17) "B 5!" "C 11!"?
19) Took_ (snoozed)
20) Downed
21) Typing type
22) Considers carefully
24) "Emma" author Austen
25) Hersey's bell town
26) Place or site
29) Transverse beam
32) Itsy-bitsy bits
33) "In_ tn1st"
34) Recipe word
35) Cravings
36) Emulate "Old Blue Eyes"
O, O!
1 2 3
14
17
20
26 27 28
32
35
38
41 42
CROSSWORD
37) Kid's "seat" on Santa
38) Alternative to .net
39) Less extroverted
40) TV's "Cosmos" creator
41) Author's explanation
43) Yuletide songs
44) Backup sounds
45) Random sampling
46) "Monkey Trial" teacher
48) Seafood choice
49) Josh
52) Door section
53) John Wayne character,
larger-than-life?
56) More than suggest
57) Recording studio alert
58) Water sport
59) Some antique autos
60) Family men
61) Bud holder
Richard Auer
11 12 13
7th June
DOWN
1) Island south of Florida
2) Dismounted
3) Archer or Heche
4) Endless faultfinder
5) Home of the John Deere
headquarters
6) Like beverages at barbecues
7) A 1 Capp character
8) Fielder's choice?
9) Trooper's warning
10) Wood-surface applications
11) Tropical fruit dance?
12) Great Salt Lake state
13) Adjusts, as a spark plug
18) Multicolored gems
23) "_ on Down the Road"
24) Traffic tangles
25) Eagerness
26)_ the land (how things stand)
27) Alamogordo's county
28) Kinshasa drum?
29) Australian bush call
30) Just right
31) Wonderlands
33) Southern breakfast dish
36) Auto despair site?
37) Marx or Benz
39) Pirate's knife
40) Town of many trials and hunts
42) Plains homes
43) Plays with crayons
45) Lecterns
46) Tim Duncan, for one
47) Kind of package
48) Cold spell
49) Nautical mile
50) Not going anywhere
51) Condemn
54) "Put_ Happy Face"
55) Photo_ (media events)
i FreeDailyCrosswords.com
Friday, 16 February, 2024
ACROSS-----------
1) "Brian's Song" star James
5) Comes out of one's skin
10) Self-congratulatory
14) Radius' comrade-in-arms?
15) Youngest-ever Oscar
winner
16) Folkestone farewell
17) "B 5!" "C 11!"?
19) Took_ (snoozed)
20) Downed
21) Typing type
22) Considers carefully
24) "Emma" author Austen
25) Hersey's bell town
26) Place or site
29) Transverse beam
32) Itsy-bitsy bits
33) "In_ tn1st"
34) Recipe word
35) Cravings
36) Emulate "Old Blue Eyes"
O, O!
CROSSWORD ANSWERS
37) Kid's "seat" on Santa
38) Alternative to .net
39) Less extroverted
40) TV's "Cosmos" creator
41) Author's explanation
43) Yuletide songs
44) Backup sounds
45) Random sampling
46) "Monkey Trial" teacher
48) Seafood choice
49) Josh
52) Door section
53) John Wayne character,
larger-than-life?
56) More than suggest
57) Recording studio alert
58) Water sport
59) Some antique autos
60) Family men
61) Bud holder
1M l.1 1 b
Richard Auer
ATA
N A p
I G H 5
0
T 30 1 3e
D D
E E
N
7th June
DOWN
1) Island south of Florida
2) Dismounted
3) Archer or Heche
4) Endless faultfinder
5) Home of the John Deere
headquarters
6) Like beverages at barbecues
7) A 1 Capp character
8) Fielder's choice?
9) Trooper's warning
10) Wood-surface applications
11) Tropical fruit dance?
12) Great Salt Lake state
13) Adjusts, as a spark plug
18) Multicolored gems
23) "_ on Down the Road"
24) Traffic tangles
25) Eagerness
26)_ the land (how things stand)
27) Alamogordo's county
28) Kinshasa drum?
29) Australian bush call
30) Just right
31) Wonderlands
33) Southern breakfast dish
36) Auto despair site?
37) Marx or Benz
39) Pirate's knife
40) Town of many trials and hunts
42) Plains homes
43) Plays with crayons
45) Lecterns
46) Tim Duncan, for one
47) Kind of package
48) Cold spell
49) Nautical mile
50) Not going anywhere
51) Condemn
54) "Put_ Happy Face"
55) Photo_ (media events)
Read online www.iwk.co.nz
SUDOKU SOLUTIONS
46 47
52
56
59
SUDOKU
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A N E
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5lJ R G E b N
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Mb N D 0
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Your Weekly Horoscope: 16 February - 22 February, 2024
ARIES (MAR 21-APR 20)
While you may be capable of doing it all, it
may not be worth it to try. This week you
may find yourself bumping up against your
limitations. This is not inherently a bad thing,
but it may make you feel bad. It’s important
to remember that not all things that feel bad
are actually bad for you; your assignment is to take the time
to identify which of your actions reflect your priorities and
which you’re pursuing out of obligation or habit.
TAURUS (APR 21-MAY 20)
This week is all about boundaries—not to be
confused with limitations. If you can be clear
with yourself about what you can and cannot
do at this time, what feels aligned and what
doesn’t, you’ll be able to act in ways that reflect
that clarity. That makes it easier to share that
same clarity with others, which in turn allows more room for
others to express their needs and preferences. All of this can
make your relationships function more smoothly and make
you feel more free, Taurus.
GEMINI (MAY 21-JUN 21)
As tempting as it is to want to rush matters,
what you need more than anything this week
is steadiness of mind. Strive to stay focused
on the things that are most helpful in the
here and now, trusting that all the other
things that are vying for your attention can
wait. By taking a more grounded approach and noting where
you allow your attention to linger, you can be more effective
and feel significantly better, Twin Star.
CANCER (JUN 22-JUL 20)
Sometimes anxiety is a trusted resource that
can alert you to something being off, and a
lot of the time, it’s a distraction from the here
and now and a projection of your fears and
insecurities onto the present moment. Strive
to take a grounded and methodical approach
to your concerns this week, Moonchild. Don’t abandon your
common sense in the presence of big emotions—and that
includes anxiety.
LEO (JUL21-AUG 20)
This week, it’s important that you let go, Leo.
The tricky part is figuring out what needs to
be released. Do your best to acknowledge
your own control issues, and be willing to
let people and situations reveal themselves
to you in their own way and in their own
time. In doing so, you are giving yourself and others space
to be present in uncertainty and to explore what’s needed,
what’s possible, and what the next steps are from here.
VIRGO (AUG 23-SEP 23)
This week it’s wise to investigate the ways
in which you do or don’t trust yourself,
Virgo. So much of this is not to do with
what you think as much as how you feel
about what you think. Do your best to sit
with your insecurities, anxieties, and other
uncomfortable emotions so that you can find the truth of
what you’re struggling with deep within your own heart.
LIBRA (SEP 24-OCT 23)
This week is a really important time for you
to consider what needs to be moved forward
in your life. You don’t need to be wrapping
things up or have perfect clarity. Instead,
this is a good time to focus your thinking
and attention on what needs TLC, what
needs collaborative input, and what needs time. Be willing to
let go of whatever interrupts your ability to prioritize things
that are time-sensitive and mean the most to you, Libra.
SCORPIO (OCT 24-NOV 22)
It may feel like things are chaotic or
changing too fast, and you may have the
impulse to dig your heels in as a way to
cope. This week, consider what foundations
you want to be creating and how to best
create them. What you need and want will
take effort to build. Start from where you’re at, and identify
the next best steps so that you can not only get there but get
there feeling at least somewhat grounded.
SAGITTARIUS (NOV 23-DEC 21)
This week you’re likely to be feeling really
overwhelmed and like you’re being pulled in
too many directions at once. The behaviours
that got you here are not going to be the same
ones to get you out of this pickle, Sagittarius.
In other words, do not seek quick fixes for
long-term, complex problems. Your restlessness and drive
to get things done ASAP is putting extra pressure on you
and the situations you’re engaged in—and it’s not actually
helping you.
CAPRICORN (DEC 22-JAN 21)
With so much change happening around and
within you, the most important thing that you
can do this week is prioritize staying aligned.
If you’re going to make meaningful decisions,
it’s important that you are as grounded and
present with your innermost self as you
can be so that you have access to your own wisdom and
guidance. This may require you to slow down so that you
can tap in and tune yourself up.
AQUARIUS (JAN 22-FEB 19)
If you act or react impulsively, you are
likely to create more problems than you
solve, Aquarius. It’s all about finding wellconsidered
compromises this week. This
may require you to be a bit more vulnerable
and in your feelings than you are technically
comfortable with. Don’t allow your desire for the truth to
inhibit your ability to stay present with the nuances that are
at the centre of what’s actually true, Aquarius.
PISCES (FEB 20-MAR 20)
There is so much chaotic and painful energy
in the collective that you are likely to be
impacted by it in one way or another. This
week, it’s important that you prioritize getting
your energy grounded and present. This
may mean prioritizing your sleep schedule,
remembering to use your self-care tools, or simply slowing
down. Be extremely intentional about how you are using your
energy.

Read online www.iwk.co.nz Friday, 16 February, 2024
FEATURE 17
Chicken fingers with
curried ketchup
Ingredients
• Nonstick cooking spray
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Kosher salt
• 2 cups panko (Japanese
breadcrumbs)
• 3 skinless, boneless chicken
breasts (1 1/2 to 1 3/4 pounds),
cut into 1-inch-wide strips
• 1 bunch broccoli, cut into florets
• 3/4 cup ketchup
• Juice of 1 lime
Directions
• Preheat the oven to 400 degrees
F. Set a rack on a baking sheet
and mist with cooking spray.
Ingredients
• 1/3 cup walnut halves
• 1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves, plus a few sprigs,
for garnish
• 1 clove garlic, smashed
• 1 1/2 cups chopped raw broccoli florets and tender
stems (about 4 ounces)
• 1/4 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
• Kosher salt
• Juice of 1/2 small lemon (1 tablespoon)
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano,
Romano or grana padano cheese
• 10 ounces whole wheat or tri-color fusilli
Directions
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the nuts
out on a small baking pan and toast lightly, about 5
minutes. Set aside to cool.
• Pulse together 1/4 cup of the walnuts and the
garlic in a food processor; add the broccoli, basil,
broth, nutmeg, red pepper flakes if using, 3/4
teaspoon salt and the lemon juice, and pulse until
just combined.
• Slowly drizzle in the oil through the feed tube with
• Whisk the eggs, mustard, 1
teaspoon curry powder, the
cumin and 1 teaspoon salt in
a shallow bowl. Mix the panko
with 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
in another bowl.
• Dip the chicken strips in the egg
mixture, letting the excess drip
off, then coat with the panko.
Place the chicken on the rack
and mist all over with cooking
spray.
• Bake until golden brown and
cooked through, about 20
minutes.
• Meanwhile, bring about 1 inch
of water to a boil in a large pot
with a steamer rack or basket
in place. Add the broccoli, cover
and steam until crisp-tender, 8 to
10 minutes.
• Mix the ketchup, lime juice and
the remaining 1/2 teaspoon
curry powder in a small bowl.
Serve the chicken strips with the
curried ketchup and broccoli.
Broccoli-walnut pesto with pasta
Beer and lime chicken
Ingredients
• 400 gm chicken
• 3 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon spice paprika
• 1 1/2 cup beer
• 7 cloves minced garlic
• salt as required
• 3 tablespoon cilantro
Method
• Wash and clean the chicken,
cut them into desired pieces
and pat dry. Next, take a bowl
and add beer, lime juice, honey,
garlic, salt, paprika, pepper and
cilantro. Mix all the ingredients
and let the honey dissolve
completely.
• In the next step add the chicken
pieces to the bowl and and
marinate for about half an hour.
• Preheat the grill, and place the
chicken pieces after removing
the excess marinate. You can
keep the marinade for basting
the chicken and grill by flipping
sides. Place the chicken pieces
on the grill and let them cook for
5-7 minutes each side or until
the processor running and puree until a slightly
chunky sauce forms, scraping down the sides of
the bowl as needed.
• Add 2 tablespoons of the cheese and pulse until
incorporated. Cook the pasta in a large pot of
salted water according to the package directions.
Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid.
• Toss the pasta with the pesto in the dry pot or a
mixing bowl, along with some of the reserved
cooking liquid.
• Add the remaining cooking liquid if needed and
additional salt to taste.
• Transfer the pasta to individual bowls and sprinkle
with the remaining 1 tablespoon cheese. Chop the
remaining walnuts and scatter on top. Garnish with
basil leaves and serve.
the chicken is tender and juices
run clear.
• Serve hot with lemon, green
chili sauce/green chutney.
Lemon-garlic shrimp and grits
Ingredients
• 3/4 cup instant grits
• Kosher salt and freshly ground
black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
cheese
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 1/4 pounds medium shrimp,
peeled and deveined, tails intact
• 2 large cloves garlic, minced
• Pinch of cayenne pepper
(optional)
• Juice of 1/2 lemon, plus wedges
for serving
• 2 tablespoons roughly chopped
fresh parsley
Directions
• Bring 3 cups of water to a boil
in a medium saucepan over
high heat, covered. Uncover
and slowly whisk in the grits, 1
teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon
pepper.
• Reduce the heat to medium low
and cook, stirring occasionally,
until thickened, about 5
minutes.
• Stir in the Parmesan and 1
tablespoon butter.
• Remove from the heat and
season with salt and pepper.
Ingredients
• 2 Cornish game hens (about
1 1/2 pounds each), halved
• Kosher salt and freshly
ground pepper
• 3/4 cup low-sodium soy
sauce
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 2-inch piece ginger, peeled
and sliced
• 2 small red chile peppers,
halved (remove seeds for less
heat)
• 1 bunch scallions
• 1 grapefruit, halved
• 1 medium head bok choy, thinly
sliced
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame
oil
• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds,
toasted, for garnish
Directions
• Preheat the oven to 425 degrees
F. Season the hens with salt and
pepper and place skin-side up
in a roasting pan. Roast until the
skin is slightly crisp, about 25
minutes.
• Meanwhile, combine the soy
sauce, hoisin sauce, vinegar,
ginger, 1 chile pepper and 1/4
cup water in a pot.
• Cut half of the scallions into
large pieces, and zest and juice
half of the grapefruit; add to the
pot.
• Cover to keep warm.
• Meanwhile, season the shrimp
with salt and pepper. Melt the
remaining 2 tablespoons butter
in a large skillet over mediumhigh
heat.
• Add the shrimp, garlic and
cayenne, if using, and cook,
tossing, until the shrimp are
pink, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove
from the heat and add 2
tablespoons water, the lemon
juice and parsley; stir to coat
the shrimp with the sauce and
season with salt and pepper.
• Divide the grits among shallow
bowls and top with the shrimp
and sauce.
Serve with lemon wedges.
Teriyaki Hens with bok choy
• Simmer, stirring occasionally,
until thick and syrupy, about 20
minutes. Brush the hens with a
few tablespoons of the sauce
and continue roasting until
golden, about 8 more minutes.
• Peel and segment the remaining
grapefruit half and place in
a bowl.
• Thinly slice the remaining
scallions and mince the
remaining chile pepper; add
to the bowl along with the bok
choy, sesame oil, and salt and
pepper to taste.
• Place half a hen on each plate.
Stir any pan drippings into the
remaining sauce and drizzle
over the top.
• Serve with the bok choy
salad and garnish with
sesame seeds.
Spicy Kale and corn-stuffed chicken breasts
Ingredients
• 4 teaspoons olive oil
• 5 1/2 ounces frozen chopped kale (about
2 cups)
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• Kosher salt
• 1/3 cup frozen whole kernel corn
• 2 ounces pepper jack cheese, grated
(about 1/2 cup)
• Four 8-ounce boneless skinless chicken
breast halves
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
skillet over medium heat. Add the kale,
garlic and 1/4 teaspoon salt and cook,
• Add the corn and cook, stirring, until
warmed through, 2 to 3 minutes more.
• Transfer to a bowl to cool slightly, and
then stir in the cheese.
• Insert a thin paring knife into the thickest
part of the chicken breast and cut down
the side to make a 3-inch pocket. Repeat
with the remaining chicken breasts. Then
evenly stuff with the kale mixture.
• Heat a large nonstick skillet over mediumhigh
heat until very hot, 3 to 4 minutes. Rub
the chicken breasts with the remaining
2 teaspoons oil and sprinkle with a total
of 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon
pepper.
minutes. Then lower heat to medium.
Continue cooking, turning once halfway
through, until just cooked through, about
14 minutes more.
• Insert a small paring knife into the top of
the chicken to test for doneness. If any
pink areas remain, cover the skillet and
continue to cook until opaque.
• Transfer the chicken and any bits of filling
that fell into the skillet onto 4 plates. Stir
the broth and flour together in a small
bowl and then add to the skillet.
• Cook, stirring, until thickened, about 2
minutes. Remove from the heat, stir in
the lemon juice and season with salt and
stirring, until the kale is softened and the
Directions
• Add all 4 chicken breasts to the skillet pepper. Spoon the pan sauce over the
garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes.
• Heat 2 teaspoons of the oil in a large
and cook until golden brown, about 2 chicken.

18
ENTERTAINMENT
'I have always believed
in playing women who
are powerful': Bhumi
Actor Bhumi Pednekar
is being lauded for her
role as a journalist in
her recent release 'Bhakshak'.
The film is a Red Chillies
Entertainment production
and explores the journey
of an unwavering woman's
quest to seek justice. In
'Bhakshak', Bhumi looks into
a case of sexual assault of
children at a
girl's shelter home.
On receiving love from the
audience, Bhumi said, "As
an actor, nothing is more
joyous than unanimous
praise from the film industry,
media and audience about
one's performance. I'm very
emotional and passionate
about my work, every film of
mine has a special place in
my heart. For me, Bhakshak
is at the top of that heap
because of the powerful story
that it is saying and also
because I play a woman who
is the agent of change."
She added, "That is rare in
Indian cinema as very few
It's been a year today since
Veteran star Zeenat Aman
made her Instagram debut.
To mark this day, she shared
stunning pictures of herself and
how it has been a transformative
journey for her.
Taking to Instagram, Zeenat
treated fans with new glamourous
photos along with a lengthy note.
Over the past year, she has
shared unseen pictures and
interesting stories about her
journey. The note read, "People
presume that transformative
experiences are the prerogative of
the young. My experience tells me
otherwise."
She revealed how her
children encouraged her to join
Instagram, "365 days ago my kids
cajoled me into uploading my
first Instagram post.
That little leap of faith forced
me to confront my deep tech
trepidations and even deeper need
for privacy. Then it gifted me a
transformative year."
Zeenat also expressed gratitude
to her team and children who
assisted her with Instagram.
She added, "Oh, and what kids
they are. If you wonder how I
navigate Instagram or know the
latest lingo, the answer lies with my
informal little band of millennials.
There is lovely, gentle @tanya.
agarwall_ who photographs
me with ease, thoughtful @_
pratikshanair_ who makes up my
face exactly as I like, and quiet @
makeupnhairbyankita who fixes
my hair.
"Then there are @zanuski and
@carapiranha, who have held my
hand every step of the way."
The note ended, "So, here's a
thought from this septuagenarian
films empower a woman
be leaders of change, to be
the ones who better society.
I have always believed in
playing women who are
powerful, who contribute
to nation building and who
empower fellow women to
stand up against injustice,
and patriarchy and are vocal
about their rights and needs."
Bhumi also thanked the
makers for giving her an
opportunity to headline
'Bhakshak'.
"I thank my director Pulkit,
Red Chillies and the writer
Jyotsana Nath for giving me
a project that has allowed
me to act from my heart. I'm
thrilled with the love that is
coming my way. It tells me
that I have picked a right
project that has touched the
hearts of people. It also tells
me that people want to see
me do meaningful stories
that are content forward," she
shared.
'Bhakshak' is currently
streaming on Netflix. (ANI)
'Transformative year': Zeenat Aman
celebrates one year on Instagram
- transformations demand that
we embrace the unknown. And
there's really no age limit to when
you can transform your life. Happy
one year anniversary to you and I.
Please eat a slice of cake on my
behalf today. P.S: just like my first
post, this one too was shot in my
garden by @tanya.agarwall_ just
yesterday.
The clothes are from my closet,
and I did my own hair and makeup
of course."
As soon as the post was
uploaded, fans flooded the
comment section.
One of the users wrote, "Thank
you for your grace on a platform
that can be vituperative."
Zeenat Aman became a
household name during the 70s
and 80s after bagging the title
Miss Asia Pacific International
pageant in 1970, is known for her
bold personality and was one of
the actors who set the fashion
trend with her satirical choices.
On the birth anniversary
of the great actor Pran,
veteran star Saira Banu
warmly remembered his close
association with her late husband,
the iconic actor Dilip Kumar.
Taking to her Instagram
handle, she wrote, "Happy Birth
Anniversary Pran Sahab! Pran
Sahab and Sahib remained close
until the very end."
She recalled what
legendary actor Dilip
Kumar used to say
about him, "Dilip
Sahib always spoke
very highly of Pran
Sahab and to which
he stated that "RAM
AUR SHYAM WAS
COMPLETED AHEAD
OF SCHEDULE. Its work
was a jolly experience for
all of us. I was working with
my friend Pran in Ram Aur Shyam
and Aadmi at the same time.
Pran and I were friends in the
real sense of the term. We met
at the work place and we met
informally as often as we could
either at his house or mine since
we lived in the same locality:
Bandra," she added.
Saira continued, "At work, we
were invariably pitted against
each other - our characters were
always caught in a conflict over
something or the other.
It used to be very amusing for
onlookers to watch the change
that would come over him when
he faced the camera with me in
the frame after all the friendliness
and affection they had seen a
Friday, 16 February, 2024
while ago
between
us. Once
again he and I
(in Ram Aur Shyam)
were pitted against each other.
Recalling a few scenes between
Dilip Kumar and Pran in 'Ram Aur
Shyam', she added, "The highlight
and most appreciated scenes
in RAM AUR SHYAM were the
merciless whipping of helpless
RAM by his villainous brother In
law in Gajendra in the early part
of the film and later when SHYAM
assumes the persona of RAM and
returns the ordeal of the whipping
multifold, the audience just loved
it and lapped it up.."
She shared, "We had enjoyed
being together during the shooting
of Bimal Roy's Madhumati in
the forest location where almost
everybody else spoke in Bengali
Read online www.iwk.co.nz
'Cinema changed my life': Guru
Randhawa on acting debut in
'Kuch Khattaa Ho Jaay'
Singers turning into actors
is not new and the latest
one to take this challenge
is none other than singer Guru
Randhawa.He is all set to come
up with rom-com drama 'Kuch
Khattaa Ho Jaay'.
Randhawa started his music
journey in December 2012 with a
song named 'Same Girl' with Arjun.
Since then there is no looking back.
He created waves in Bollywood
with his debut track 'Tenu Suit
Suit Karda' featured in Irrfan Khan
starrer- 'Hindi Medium' in 2017.
He said, "It's a great journey and
I think when you do something
creatively in live and you keep
doing it repeatedly then you
become master of that particular
thing. I love taking challenges and
enjoy it. There is a desire in the
heart as I am a cinema lover, fan of
cinema. Cinema changed my life.
So, while watching movies, I used
to think that I will also do a film
someday."
He added, "After the year 2015-
16, there were a lot of offers and I
am quite good looking, so people
were like, why don't you do films?
That time, I was not comfortable in
front of the camera because that
time I started my career in music.
In music videos, you are not being
not that much exposed to the
camera, it's just one day shoot,
sometime after shoot, two days
shoot or so. And there is not much
acting in it. It's just rubbing your
hands and smiling at the camera.
Randhawa revealed how he
finally decided to step into acting.
The 'Patola' singer said, "I
have watched so many movies
and I felt like I can now take this
responsibility to reach audience
with something, which is
promising, shows hardwork and
efforts. And with the great script.
When I decided to do acting, then
I took some workshops. When we
got Kuch Khatta Ho Jaay, me and
Saiee did workshops.There is a
similarity in singing, acting and
dancing, that's 'Sur'.
Saira Banu remembers Dilip Kumar's
close bond with Pran, says, 'Dilip Sahib
always spoke very highly of Pran Sahab'
while we conversed heartily in
Punjabi. He loved the evenings
we spent sitting around a bonfire
reciting exquisite poetry. We had
some wonderful times in Madras
when we were shooting for Ram
Aur Shyam and Aadmi. We had
just completed Dil Diya Dard
Liya and the joke on the sets in
Madras was "Pran aap ka peecha
hi nahin chodta". It was fine with
me and fine with him because we
liked each other's company and
respected each other as artists."
"Sahib's friendship with
Pran Sahab goes way back in
time, Tomorrow, I'll add some
interesting anecdotes about the
twosome," she concluded.
Talking about the legendary
actor Pran, he portrayed a
wide range of characters,
from romantic protagonists to
supporting characters.