The Indian Weekender | 17 May 2024

Friday, 17 May 2024 

Volume 16 / Issue 08 

Read • Watch • Engage 

www.iwk.co.nz /indianweekendernz /indianweekender 

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GOOD 

SIGN 

Kiwi-Indian making 

a mark in NZ's Deaf 

community 

URJITA BHARDWAJ 

A 

Kiwi-Indian woman is transforming the landscape of communications 

with the Deaf community in New Zealand, using her expertise in sign 

language to connect with individuals who have unique communication 

needs. 

Rekha Rosario, the only qualified New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) 

interpreter from India and member of the Sign Language Interpreters 

Association of New Zealand (SLIANZ), has been recognised as the NZSL 

Interpreter of the Year 2024. 

• Continued on Page 3 

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riends and colleagues. 

Read online www.iwk.co.nz Friday, 17 May 2024 

NEW ZEALAND 3 

Indian consulate in Auckland: IFS 

officer to head mission named 

1. "My name is…” (then 

RAVI BAJPAI finger spell your name!) 

service consulate in Auckland will 

address a long-standing demand 

A 

full-fledged NAME Indian 2. "Nice to meet you" 

of the Kiwi-Indian community, and 

consulate in Auckland is a 

go a long way in further improving 

3. "How are you?" 

step closer to opening as 

the already blossoming India-NZ 

the Indian government has 4. named “Coffee" or asked as 

relations. 

the bureaucrat who will head the 

“I am looking forward to 

mission. 

a question with 

welcoming Mr Sethi and handing 

The Consul General of India 

over the responsibility,” Dhillon 

in Ho Chi Minh City, Dr Madan 

eyebrows raised. 

says, confirming his full support 

Mohan Sethi, is scheduled to 

during the transition and the 

"Want a coffee?” 

move to Auckland when the 

subsequent opening of the facility. 

consulate begins operations 5. later “I love you” 

“Thanks to PM Modi for 

this year. 

accepting our long-standing 

On December 27, 2023, 6. the “Want help?” 

demand as a fully staffed and 

Indian government approved a 

resourced consulate general was 

7. “Awful weather” or 

proposal to open a full service 

the need of the hour with now 

consulate in Auckland, a move “Beautiful weather” 

nearly 200,000 Indians in the 

described as one that will 

greater Auckland region.” 

strengthen the South Asian 

giant’s diplomatic footprint in New 

Zealand. 

India’s main diplomatic mission 

in Aotearoa currently operates out 

of Wellington. 

The honorary consulate, called 

Consulate of India, Auckland, 

was opened nearly seven years 

back with a view to providing a 

diplomatic channel and serving 

Kiwi-Indians, who had to liaise 

An honorary consulate opened Dr Madan Mohan Sethi 

with the embassy in Wellington for 

LOVE 

in 2017 in Auckland to serve Indian embassy there. 

ministry. 

all big and small needs. 

Kiwi-Indians in this city, and Bhav From September 2010 to 

From May 2019 to May 2020, he 

Narendra Bhana of New Zealand 

Dhillion was appointed the first February 2014, he was the Consul “I am looking forward discharged the charge of Director, 

Indian Central Association, one 

Hon Consul of India in Auckland. YOU 

of Aotearoa’s leading diaspora 

General in Consulate General of to welcoming Mr Sethi Central Europe Division. 

Sethi joined Indian Foreign 

organisations, says, "The Indian 

India in Myanmar. From March and handing over 

Sethi was born in 1973 in 

Service in 2006. 

community is looking forward to a 

2014 to August 2017, he handled 

Khurda district of Odisha. 

From 2006 to 2008, he was 

the responsibility. 

full-fledged consulate opening in 

the responsibility as Political and 

A medical graduate, he had 

under training at Foreign Service 

Commercial Officer in Embassy of 

Thanks to PM Modi for 

Auckland, and we look forward to 

worked in four different state 

Institute in Delhi. 

supporting Mr Sethi. 

India, Rome. 

accepting our longstanding 

demand as 

right here in the city will be a huge 

hospitals in Odisha for about four 

For a brief period in 2008 he 

"Easier access to more services 

In the absence of the regular 

years before joining the Indian 

worked as an Attache in the BSM 

(Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar 

officer, Sethi also represented a fully staffed and 

Foreign Service. 

relief for thousands of Kiwi- 

& Maldive) Division of the ministry 

India in Food and Agricultural 

He is married to Swagatika 

resourced consulate 

Indians." 

in Delhi. 

Organization, International Fund 

Bhuyan and has two sons-Anshul 

From September 2008 to 

for Agricultural Development and general was the need Kumar (12) and Abhik Kumar (9). 

September 2010, he worked as a World WEATHER Food Programme from July of the hour with now The new Consulate General of 

Language Trainee in the Embassy 2016 to August 2017. 

nearly 200,000 Indians India in Auckland is likely to open 

of India, Yangon, BEAUTIFUL also holding the From August 2017 to April 2019, 

in the greater Auckland 

within this year. 

full responsibility of the Culture Sethi handled works related to the 

Hon Consul of India in Auckland 

region.” Bhav Dhillon 

and Information Wing of the ASEAN ML Division in the foreign 

Bhav Dhillon says a new full- 

ach others theirs! 

wo fingers on the side of forehead. Move wrist forward & twist palm out. 

Hold fist up 

nger to point to the person you are referring to. 

U 

way from your body. 

Cross your arms across your body. 

'No communication without 

comprehension': Rekha 

• Continued from Page 1 

This prestigious award 

acknowledges her unwavering 

commitment and strong 

connections within the local Deaf 

community. 

"I feel humbled and grateful to 

the Deaf community I have served 

for the past 18 years and continue 

to serve," Rekha told The Indian 

Weekender. 

"I accept this award as 

recognition of what the profession 

can do to enhance the accessibility 

needs of the Deaf community." 

Originally from Kerala, Rekha 

graduated from Mumbai University 

with a Bachelor of Commerce 

before relocating to Auckland with 

her husband and young daughter 

in 2002. 

Driven by a desire to provide 

education, employment, and 

healthcare access to the Deaf 

community, the mother of two 

has dedicated herself to bridging 

communication gaps through sign 

language. 

"Back in India, I had a deaf family 

member who struggled to access 

education, services, employment, 

and healthcare due to his unique 

LWEEK.ORG.NZ 

FAOTEAROA 

Raise your right hand and wave back and forth. You can use both hands for this sign! 

communication needs," she 

shared. 

Rekha's role as a NZSL 

interpreter involves facilitating 

communication between NZSL 

and English. She operates her 

business, Rekha NZSL Interpreting 

Services, and collaborates with 

various agencies to meet the 

communication needs of the Deaf 

community. 

In 2003, Rekha began her 

studies at Auckland University of 

Technology (AUT) in New Zealand 

Sign Language before graduating 

from the interpreting course in 

2006. AUT is the sole institution 

in New Zealand offering a NZSL 

degree programme. 

The NZSL interpreting profession 

has evolved significantly, gaining 

official status in 2006 under the 

New Zealand Sign Language Act. 

Rekha believes that effective 

communication is key. 

"I accept this award 

as recognition of what 

the profession can 

do to enhance the 

accessibility needs of 

the Deaf community." 

"In this profession, I have found 

my vocation, my calling. I strongly 

believe in the statement that there 

is 'no communication without 

comprehension.'" 

Rekha hopes that her recognition 

will raise awareness within the 

Indian community about the 

profession of NZSL interpreters, 

inspiring others to follow in her 

footsteps. 

Ramandeep murder: 

Man in 80s convicted 

for obstruction 

A 

man in his 80s and 

three women have been 

convicted and discharged 

in an Auckland court for 

obstructing police in relation to 

the killing of a security guard. 

Ramandeep Singh was found 

dead in Royal Reserve park in 

Massey on 18 December, 2023. 

Two men, aged 26 and 17, were 

charged with his murder soon 

afterwards. 

Singh, who was 25 when he 

died, moved to Auckland from 

India in 2018 and had been 

working as a contractor for 

Armourguard. 

A police spokesperson 

confirmed to RNZ that three 

women, aged 55, 40 and 25, and 

an 82-year-old man all appeared 

in Waitākere District Court on 

Thursday morning on charges of 

obstructing police. 

The spokesperson said all four 

were convicted and discharged. 

Singh worked was an 

Armourguard patrolman, and he 

was found dead at a car park in 

Massey on December 18, with 

stab wounds. 

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. 

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.”


NEW ZEALAND 5 

Amit Tandon brings laughter 

to Kiwi shores, again 

IWK BUREAU 

Amit Tandon, the ‘married guy’ of 

Indian standup comedy, tickled 

the funny bone during his muchanticipated 

tour of New Zealand last 

week, captivating audiences in Auckland, 

Wellington and Christchurch. 

Known for his relatable humor that 

delves into the everyday trials and 

triumphs of married life, Tandon brought 

his signature wit and charm to the Kiwi 

stage. 

His biggest draw was in Auckland, 

where the anticipation was palpable. 

The venue buzzed with excitement as 

a diverse crowd, including many Indian 

expatriates and comedy enthusiasts, 

filled the seats. 

Tandon took the stage to thunderous 

applause from the nearly 475 people 

in attendance, immediately putting the 

audience at ease with his warm, affable 

demeanour. 

"Amit Tandon's show was a breath of 

fresh air! His relatable humour about 

different generations had the entire 

audience in stitches – from younger 

generations to grandparents. 

It's a perfect show for a fun 

family night out," said Saif 

Shaikh from McClymont Shaikh 

Immigration Specialists, who 

were immigration consultants for 

bringing in Amit Tandon 

He began his set with 

humorous observations about 

daily life, packed with nostalgia 

and relatable anecdotes that 

could take any 90s Indian child 

back to their childhood. 

“It was classic Amit Tandon,” 

Police Commissioner announces 

new 'National Gang Unit' 

IWK BUREAU 

says Himanshu Batra of Bollysphere, 

which organised the show. “He always 

delivers a bout of nostalgia among that 

set of audience. The audience was in 

splits.” 

The comic’s performance in Wellington, 

the cultural heart of New Zealand, 

drew an equally eager 400people. His 

performance was a masterclass in 

comedic timing and relatability. 

An Instagram user by the name of 

anukawdecor commented, “OMG! You 

totally killed it at the Wellington show. It 

"Amit Tandon's show was 

a breath of fresh air! His 

relatable humour about 

different generations 

had the entire audience 

in stitches – from 

younger generations to 

grandparents. It's a perfect 

show for a fun family night 

out." Saif Shaikh 

was an amazing show, and I have never 

laughed nonstop for two hours in my 

life.” 

Amit’s anecdotes about Indian family 

dynamics, laden with sarcasm and 

affectionate jibes, resonated deeply with 

the audience. 

His Christchurch gig, which attracted 

about 200 people, was filled with jokes 

that were a blend of cultural insights and 

universal humour, making everyone feel 

included. 

Aside from the performances, Amit 

seemed to have made the most of 

his trip. He wrote on Instagram, “New 

Zealand tour ends today with Wellington 

and it has been amazing! Star gazing 

in hot water springs, bungee jumping, 

landing on a glacier, speed boats, driving 

through the most scenic areas in the 

world - all in a week! Will be back soon.” 

His tour was more than just a series 

of comedy shows; it was a cultural 

exchange that bridged gaps and built 

connections through laughter. His ability 

to find humor in the mundane, combined 

with his genuine engagement with the 

audience, left a lasting impression. 

Police are setting up a National 

Gang Unit and frontline teams 

to tackle crime and intimidation 

by gangs. 

Police Commissioner Andrew Coster 

said the national unit will work with 

police districts across the country. New 

gang disruption units will be dedicated 

district teams to help identify, target and 

catch "priority offenders", he said. 

Coster made the announcement 

during a media briefing, highlighting the 

significant impact of gang members on 

crime rates in the country, with gangs 

responsible for 8% of all violence and 

18% of serious violence incidents. 

The National Gang Unit will consist of 

25-30 specialised personnel, with up to 

seven staff members dedicated to each 

police district nationwide. 

This initiative is part of Operation 

Cobalt, a strategic effort to tackle gangrelated 

issues. 

Incoming legislation will provide the 

police with additional tools to address 

gang activities. Coster emphasised that 

while New Zealand remains one of the 

safest countries to live in, the changing 

gang landscape requires a proactive 

response from law enforcement. 

Police Minister Mark Mitchell 

commended the establishment of the 

National Gang Unit as a crucial step 

in prioritising public safety. 

The unit will issue disruption and 

dispersal notices to prevent gangs from 

wearing patches and gathering, similar to 

Police Commissioner Andrew Coster said the 

national unit will work with police districts across 

the country 

measures implemented in Australia. 

The announcement comes in response 

to a recent increase in gang-related 

violence, including a fatal shooting by a 

Killer Beez gang member in Ponsonby. 

The rise in gang activity has been further 

fueled by the influx of 501 deportees from 

Australia, leading to the establishment of 

new gangs like the Comancheros. 

The new legislation, part of the 

government's efforts to crack down 

on gangs, will grant police warrantless 

search powers and impose penalties 

for wearing gang insignia in public. 

The law will also enable courts to 

issue non-consorting orders to prevent 

gang members from associating with 

each other. 

The National Gang Unit is set to be 

operational by July 1. 

Coster emphasised that the 

unit's establishment would involve 

reprioritisation as well as new budget 

allocation, with a focus on enhancing 

public safety and reducing gang-related 

crime and intimidation.

6 

NEW ZEALAND 


Read online www.iwk.co.nz 

Satinder Sartaj leaves 

Auckland spellbound 

IWK BUREAU 

On the evening 

of May 11, the 

charismatic Sufi 

singer Satinder Sartaj 

cast a spell on Auckland 

as he took to the stage 

at Trusts Arena. 

The venue was 

packed to the rafters 

with eager fans, eagerly 

anticipating the magic 

that Sartaj was known 

to weave with his soulful 

melodies. 

As the lights dimmed 

and the music began, 

Sartaj's presence on 

stage was electrifying. 

He also sang his famous 

song "Udaarian," a 

heartfelt melody that 

resonated with the 

audience, setting the 

tone for the evening. 

The crowd was 

enthralled, hanging on 

to every note as Sartaj's 

powerful voice filled 

the arena. 

Continuing his 

performance, Sartaj 

transitioned into 

"Yamaha," another 

fan favourite that had 

everyone on their feet. 

The infectious rhythm 

and melody of the 

song had the audience 

dancing in the aisles, 

completely lost in the 

music. 

Sartaj's performance 

was not just about 

the songs; it was an 

experience that touched 

the hearts of everyone 

present. 

Throughout the 

evening, Sartaj's music 

brought smiles to 

faces and joy to hearts. 

His soulful singing 

transcended language 

and culture, connecting 

with people on a deep, 

emotional level. 

By the end of the 

night, the audience 

was left wanting more, 

reluctant to let go of the 

magic that Sartaj had 

created. 

Adding to the 

excitement of 

the evening, a 

lucky winner 

was announced, 

who walked 

away with a 

brand-new 

Mahindra 

XUV700. 

Adding to the 

excitement of the 

evening, a lucky winner 

was announced, walking 

away with a brand-new 

Mahindra XUV700. 

The prize draw added 

an element of thrill 

and anticipation to an 

already unforgettable 

night, leaving the 

audience with memories 

that would last a 

lifetime. 

As the audience 

slowly filed out of Trusts 

Arena, the air was filled 

with a sense of euphoria 

and contentment. 

Satinder Sartaj's 

performance had left a 

lasting impression on 

everyone present, and 

for those lucky enough 

to have been there, it 

was a night they would 

never forget. 

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Shashi Tharoor takes a shot at 

improving India-NZ relations 

URJITA BHARDWAJ 

Indian parliamentarian 

and author Shashi 

Tharoor says New 

Zealand has to ask itself 

whether “it’s doing enough 

in some ways to be more of 

a priority for a country like 

India”. 

“I don’t mean to be 

patronising or offensive… 

Most Indians would tend to 

say what does New Zealand 

has to offer us,” says 

Tharoor, who is in the city 

for Auckland Writers Festival 2024 that ends 

May 19, 2024. 

“The concern, if you were a New Zealander, 

would be to ask whether New Zealand is a 

high enough priority for a giant like India,” 

Tharoor told The Indian Weekender when 

asked if Aotearoa has put its relations with 

India on low priority. 

Tharoor talked about the underdeveloped 

state of trade between India and New 

Zealand, pointing out it “has not developed 

to its full potential”. 

The three-time Member of Parliament 

says the limited dairy industry in India 

proved to be a hindrance to a potential 

free trade agreement with New Zealand, 

which he believes could have been mutually 

beneficial. Tharoor praised New Zealand's 

dairy industry, describing it as a benchmark 

that no other country can match. 

“Limited dairy industry in India chickened 

out of the possibility of a free trade with New 

Zealand,” says Tharoor. 

The possibility of a free trade agreement 

between the two countries was a promising 

announcement leading up 

to the 2023 elections in New 

Zealand. The National Party, 

in particular, emphasised 

the strategic importance of 

opening negotiations with 

India, with dairy being a key 

focus. 

But ironically, dairy has 

been a deal-breaker in 

bilateral trade discussions 

over the last decade. India 

hasn’t opened up its market 

to import of Kiwi dairy 

products, a mainstay of New 

Zealand exports globally. 

When India’s Foreign 

Minister S Jaishankar visited New Zealand in 

2022, his then-counterpart Nanaia Mahuta 

said that "a fair trade agreement at this time 

is not a priority for New Zealand or India". 

This gave rise to a perception that New 

Zealand does not benefit from India and that 

the latter is on low priority. 

Despite these challenges, Tharoor 

disagrees with the notion that New Zealand 

considers India a low priority. He stresses on 

the need for countries of all sizes to cultivate 

relationships with partners that can be 

beneficial. 

Tharoor points out India's position as the 

third-largest economy in the world in terms 

of purchasing power parity, contrasting it 

with New Zealand's relatively smaller size. 

“When you are a country of five million 

people, you can not afford low priorities. One 

needs to have relations with everybody who 

can be of some use to you,” Tharoor says. 

Tharoor also highlighted potential areas 

of collaboration, such as New Zealand's 

tech sector benefiting from India and Kiwis 

exploring tourism opportunities in India.


NEW ZEALAND 7 

Public plaza, play area: First 

look at Onehunga makeover 

RAVI BAJPAI 

The Waiapu Precinct in 

Onehunga is poised for 

a transformation with 

plans moving into the detailed 

design phase, paving the way for 

construction work to commence 

by the year's end, according to 

Auckland Council website. 

Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local 

Board has given the green light 

to a concept design following a 

successful public consultation 

in March, where hundreds of 

residents expressed support for 

the proposed developments. 

Debbie Burrows, the 

deputy chair of the board, 

expressed satisfaction with the 

community's overwhelming 

backing of the project, stating, 

"A lot of the feedback around 

the design was well-considered, 

and the local board is happy to 

approve the finalised plan that 

will revitalise Waiapu Precinct 

and Paynes Lane." 

She added, "Like you, we are 

very much looking forward to 

seeing the upgrades take shape." 

With approval granted, Eke 

Panuku will now advance the 

project to the next stages of 

design, with initial earthworks 

slated to begin in May 2024, 

followed by underground services 

and drainage work commencing 

later in the year. 

Streetscape improvements are 

scheduled for 2025, along with 

the construction of a new play 

space. 

The approved concept design 

includes the creation of a new 

public plaza, green spaces, 

a family play area, and safer 

The approved 

concept design 

includes the creation 

of a new public 

plaza, green spaces, 

a family play area, 

and safer walking 

connections between 

Waiapu Precinct, 

Onehunga Mall, 

and the planned 

expansion of the 

Dress Smart retail 

precinct. 

Artist's impression. (Supplied Photos) 

walking connections between 

Waiapu Precinct, Onehunga 

Mall, and 

the planned 

expansion 

of the Dress 

Smart retail 

precinct. 

The design will also incorporate 

elements reflecting cultural 

identity, in 

collaboration 

with artist 

Graham 

Tipene, 

appointed by 

mana whenua. 

Public feedback highlighted 

a desire for an upgraded 

playground catering to various 

age groups and more greenery 

to enhance public spaces. 

Community priorities such as 

improved walking and cycling 

infrastructure, safety and 

lighting, and parking provisions 

were also identified. 

Kate Cumberpatch, Eke Panuku 

Onehunga Priority Location 

Director, expressed excitement 

about the project, stating, "This 

project marks the beginning of 

a series of initiatives aimed at 

revitalising Onehunga’s central 

precinct." 

She added, "Improving safer 

walking connections, creating 

new public spaces, and providing 

more greenery will add to the 

future expansion of the Dress 

Smart retail precinct with an 

incoming supermarket, and 

reinvigorate the town centre." 

The plans for Waiapu Precinct 

and Paynes Lane are part 

of broader initiatives by Eke 

Panuku for Onehunga, aimed 

at attracting more investment 

and supporting the growing 

population and local businesses. 

Sustainable urban 

development is seen as key to 

ensuring a thriving and resilient 

town centre for Onehunga, both 

now and in the future. 

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8 

NEW ZEALAND 



Not expecting a surprise: Luxon 

on upcoming Budget 

CRAIG MCCULLOCH/RNZ 

Prime Minister Christopher 

Luxon says do not 

expect any curveballs in 

this month's Budget, nor any 

bells-and-whistles, but he has 

reaffirmed a commitment 

to tax relief. 

Luxon made the comments 

in a speech to the Auckland 

Business Chamber on Wednesday 

afternoon. 

Chamber chief executive Simon 

Bridges - and former National 

leader - introduced the prime 

minister to the "sell-out crowd" 

and said he was impressed by 

Luxon's ambition for the country. 

The address contained no 

grand reveal, instead setting the 

expectations for what will be 

the National-led coalition's first 

Budget on 30 May. 

"I'm not expecting this year's 

Budget to be a surprise. And that's 

exactly the way it should be. We 

will do exactly what we said we 

would do. 

"No bells. No whistles. Just the 

basics done brilliantly to rebuild 

the economy, to restore law and 

order, and to deliver better public 

services." 

Luxon also used the speech 

to bat away criticism of the 

Coalition's promised tax cuts, 

saying "the squeezed middle" 

deserved support given the tough 

cost-of-living. 

"We were elected on a platform 

of delivering tax relief to those 

families, and I don't plan on 

breaking that promise." 

Luxon highlighted "some 

promising signs of progress" in 

the economy with inflation falling 

to 4 percent and mortgage rates 

slowly showing signs of softening. 

But he warned that relief would 

not be immediate. 

"Unwinding those pressures 

has been and will continue to be 

tough. And when government 

puts its foot on the spending gas, 

as has been the case in recent 

years, the job becomes that much 

harder. 

"It might feel good at Budget 

time, but there's absolutely no 

kindness in spending up large, 

only to see businesses close 

Find out if you have unclaimed 

money sitting with the IRD 

RNZ 

IRD is holding millions of 

dollars in unclaimed funds. 

Like many people, this is 

probably news to you. But how 

do you know if some of it is yours 

and perhaps more importantly, 

how do you claim it? 

Why have I not heard about 

this, it this legit? 

It seems like a lot of people 

have never heard of IRD's 

unclaimed funds but yes, it is 

legitimate (if you go through the 

official IRD website). 

IRD says people need to watch 

out for scammers who contact 

them saying they have unclaimed 

money waiting for you. 

Here are some signs someone 

is trying to scam you. 

How do I know if I have 

unclaimed money? 

There are two ways to do this. 

You can search for yourself 

in myIR. Just log in, click on 'I 

want to...' and go to 'Registration, 

application and enrolment'. Then 

select 'Apply for 

unclaimed money'. 

Or you can search the IRD 

website. This is the option to 

choose if you're searching on 

behalf of someone else, you 

want to search by a previous 

name you've gone by, you don't 

have myIR account or you 

are searching on behalf of an 

organisation, trust or estate. 

You'll need to provide 

information to help confirm you're 

the person the money belongs 

to. This might be past contact 

information, an old statement 

or letter from an organisation or 

person, or a copy of a will. 

Is this different to a tax 

refund? 

Yes. Put simply, unclaimed 

money is held by IRD when 

someone can't be found. 

It could be that you had an old 

bank account with some money 

in it that you hadn't used in five 

years, or you have unpaid wages 

from over five years ago. 

You may have left something 

at a hotel, or hostel and after six 

months of it going unclaimed 

the business owner sold it and 

passed the money to IRD. 

The Māori Trustee may be 

holding funds for you - it holds 

money in the common fund for 

at least 10 years and if no claim 

has been made for that money 

during that time, it will become 

unclaimed money. 

Other reasons might be 

unclaimed dividends, proceeds of 

life insurance policies and awards 

from court cases or prisoners' 

allowances. 

How long does IRD hold the 

money for? 

If you don't claim the money 

within 25 years, you won't be able 

to. 

What happens if I 

don't claim it? 

Eventually, any unclaimed 

money is transferred to the 

Crown. 

How long will it take for me to 

get my money? 

Generally it takes 10-12 weeks 

to receive the money but with 

more people currently searching 

for unclaimed funds at the 

moment, IRD may take longer to 

process a claim. 

Attaching as much evidence as 

possible with your submission 

helps to avoid even further delays 

IRD will let you know if your 

claim is successful once it's 

processed. 

How much is currently 

unclaimed? 

As at 31 March 2024, there was 

$477,161,702.10 of unclaimed 

money 

and families go without as the 

consequence of inflation." 

Following the speech, Bridges 

put a series of questions to Luxon, 

beginning by asking whether the 

coalition was going far enough in 

cutting waste. 

Luxon said he would not be 

"Unwinding those 

pressures has been 

and will continue to 

be tough. And when 

government puts its 

foot on the spending 

gas, as has been the 

case in recent years, 

the job becomes that 

much harder." 

delivering an austerity Budget, 

but he believed the Coalition was 

"plotting the right course". 

"We are not going to fix six 

years of economic vandalism in 

one Budget." 

Luxon repeated his commitment 

- questioned by many economists 

- that the Coalition would not 

be borrowing to fund tax cuts. 

RNZ 

Health bosses are pointing 

people to pharmacies as a 

first port of call as winter 

looms. 

The pressure on GPs and the 

long wait times to get into one 

has seen Te Whatu Ora Health 

New Zealand suggest people head 

to their local pharmacy first, for 

primary care advice and treatment, 

as well as vaccinations. 

In a media statement, Te Whatu 

Ora chief clinical officer Dr Richard 

Sullivan said this winter would 

be busier than usual and urged 

people to prepare by having 

enough medication. 

Healthline will be available as 

an advice line but it warned call 

volumes increased during winter. 

Mangawhai Pharmacy director 

and pharmacist Lanny Wong 

said pharmacists were not a 

replacement for GPs but did 

have a place in dealing with the 

medical profession's heavy winter 

workload. 

"Anyone with sort of chronic 

conditions or long-term conditions 

you know you need to have a plan, 

you need to have your follow-up 

appointment made with your GP," 

she said. 

People with conditions such 

as asthma, chronic obstructive 

pulmonary disease (COPD) or 

chronic heart failure needed 

to ensure they had a follow-up 

doctor's appointment to ensure 

their prescription was in place 

and that they had been thoroughly 

He said the government had 

generated savings and raised 

money in other ways to ensure the 

tax package was "fully-funded". 

Bridges also posed a question 

from the audience: What was the 

one thing Luxon would like to do 

in this Budget that he could not? 

Luxon said he was comfortable 

with where the Coalition had 

landed, falling back on a line 

used frequently by former Labour 

finance minister Grant Robertson 

that the government had "got the 

balance right". 

Bridges and Luxon - former 

rivals for National's leadership 

- also exchanged banter over 

their respective hairstyles. Luxon 

commended Bridges on his new 

haircut, saying it deserved its own 

social media following. Bridges 

replied that he wished he could 

say he was an admirer of Luxon's 

hair in return. 

Luxon's address was in a similar 

vein to Finance Minister Nicola 

Willis's first pre-Budget speech 

to the Hutt Valley Chamber of 

Commerce last week, where she 

too reiterated a commitment to 

tax cuts and ruled out an austerity 

Budget. 

Where you should 

go first if you get 

sick this winter 

checked, she said. 

"We are always here if you need 

something checked, like you know 

for example if someone's on high 

blood pressure medication, they 

suddenly feel unwell, they can 

always pop into the pharmacy to 

get their blood pressure checked." 

Pharmacists may be able to do 

some work with people suffering 

from minor ailments, she said. 

"There was a pilot called Minor 

Ailment Service that pharmacists 

were allowed to provide for about 

a period of three months." 

During the pilot programme 

pharmacists were treating 

conditions such as pain and fever 

in children, scabies, conjunctivitis 

and some minor skin conditions, 

she said. Wong said the pilot 

programme was not available in 

some places this winter, but she 

would like to see it continued. 

"My region in Northland, 

fortunately this service is still 

available so we are currently still 

providing it to our community. 

"It's been really great people 

could come in with any minor 

condition, scabies, and we can 

provided funded services for the 

whole family to treat the conditions 

... it's just one thing that we can 

take care of without people having 

to find time to go see their GP." 

Wong said in her area, which was 

rural, there was often a one to two 

week wait to get a GP appointment. 

She said the emergency medical 

clinic was only about 30 minutes 

away but that was still challenging 

for some people to get to.


NEW ZEALAND 9 

‘Not just bad’: Auckland CBD’s 

parking policy a step backward 

RISHABH KAPOOR 

Auckland Transport's 

decision to charge for 

overnight and public 

holiday parking in the CBD is not 

just a bad policy; it’s a damaging 

one that threatens the very 

essence of our city's vibrancy and 

growth. 

As someone deeply invested 

in the development and success 

of Auckland’s central business 

district, I am compelled to speak 

out against these shortsighted 

measures. 

These new charges will deter 

residents and visitors alike, 

stripping away the convenience 

and accessibility that make the 

CBD attractive. 

The heart of Auckland is 

already struggling to recover 

post-pandemic, and additional 

financial burdens will only drive 

people away. 

How can we expect businesses 

to thrive when their customers 

are penalised for coming into 

the city? How can we foster a 

lively, bustling downtown if we 

impose barriers that discourage 

participation? 

Beyond the immediate 

economic impacts, these 

policies signal a worrying trend 

of decision-making that fails to 

consider the broader implications 

for community and growth. 

Charging for parking on public 

holidays and overnight not only 

inconveniences but also alienates 

the very people we want to 

attract. It’s a move that says, “We 

don’t want you here.” 

Recent statistics reveal that 

New Zealand faces a significant 

net migration loss, with many 

residents leaving due to a lack 

of opportunities and rising living 

costs. 

We are at a critical juncture 

where our leadership must make 

decisions that infuse ambition 

and opportunity into the country, 

rather than creating more 

roadblocks. 

It is essential for policy 

makers to foster collaborative 

relationships with the business 

community to understand what is 

genuinely required for Auckland’s 

CBD to thrive. 

Policies must be designed with 

input from those who are directly 

affected – the businesses and 

residents who call the CBD home. 

As a property manager deeply 

embedded in the Auckland CBD, 

I see firsthand the potential for 

growth and innovation. However, 

this potential can only be realised 

Beyond the immediate economic impacts, 

these policies signal a worrying trend of 

decision-making that fails to consider the 

broader implications for community. 

if we create an environment that 

supports and nurtures it. 

Let’s think creatively about 

revitalising the CBD. How about 

implementing free or discounted 

parking during off-peak hours 

to encourage more foot traffic? 

Or investing in better public 

transport options that genuinely 

make it easier for people to 

choose the CBD over other 

destinations? 

Auckland has the potential 

to be a vibrant, inclusive, and 

thriving city centre, but only if we 

make policies that welcome and 

encourage engagement. Let’s not 

drive people away with punitive 

charges. Instead, let’s create a 

CBD that invites people in, fosters 

business, and showcases the 

best of what our city has to offer. 

It’s time for our leadership to 

act with vision and courage. Let’s 

make Auckland a place where 

opportunities abound and where 

ambition is nurtured. By working 

together – policy makers, 

businesses, and residents – we 

can ensure that the CBD not only 

survives but thrives, becoming 

a beacon of prosperity and 

innovation. 

Rishabh is CEO at Impressions 

Real Estate, a property 

management firm that manages 

at least 1,000 properties, mostly 

in Auckland CBD 

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NEW ZEALAND 



Young Indo-Fijians yearn to 

know more about the Girmit era 

GAURAV SHARMA/RNZ 

each year, when the Indo-Fijian 

community reflects on the British 

Three young Fijians of Indian 

colonial government's indentured 

descent living in New 

system. 

Zealand have expressed a 

Dual identity 

desire to learn more about their 

history as the community marked 

Girmit Day on Tuesday. 

On 14 May in 1879, a ship named 

The question that eventually 

pops up is whether Indo-Fijians 

should be identified by their Indian 

ancestry or their Pacific heritage. 

The Leonidas docked in Fiji with 

The community has long 

463 Indian indentured labourers 

opposed proposed moves by 

who were sent to the Pacific to 

work in sugarcane plantations. 

Over the next 37 years, more than 

60,500 people were transferred 

from all parts of British India to 

work in Fiji. 

These workers came to be 

known as the Girmitiyas, as they 

were bound by a girmit - a Hindi 

pronunciation of the English word 

"agreement". 

The hardships of plantation 

the New Zealand government to 

classify Indo-Fijians as South 

Asians instead of Pacific islanders. 

The government pressed ahead 

last year to ratify the decision, a 

move that sparked dissatisfaction 

in the community. 

"Growing up in Fiji, I always 

identified as a Pacific islander," 

Nath says. "It was only when I 

moved here, the system [New 

Zealand government] told me I am 

life, squalid living conditions, 

not. 

Vish Kumar grew up in New Zealand. Photo: Rachael Nath moved to New Zealand from 

resettlement, displacement, 

Nabeelah Khan's family relocated to New 

RNZ / Blessen Tom 

Fiji in 2019. Photo: RNZ / Blessen Tom 

"This was a complete shock and 

religious restrictions, lack of 

Zealand before she was born. Photo: RNZ / 

quite hard to sit with. I was denied 

Blessen Tom 

companionship and the pivotal "Whenever I talk to my "The girmit era is not something 

student assistance because the 

role the system played in shaping grandparents about the history of which is discussed often in Fiji- February 1909 on the ship Sangola government here didn't recognise 

Fiji's economy is one of the lesserknown 

chapters of modern Indian on their part," Kumar says. "It feels Zealand," Khan says. 

grandmother was 21, while my Khan recalls instances when she 

girmit, I sense a hesitancy to share Indian households here in New 111. At that time, my maternal me as a Pacific islander." 

and Pacific history. 

they don't want to burden me with But Nath, Kumar and Khan all maternal grandfather was 19." was instructed by her teachers 

"There is a collective amnesia the sense of truth." 

express a collective desire to To honour the contributions at school to tick the South Asian 

around the history of girmit in Kumar became interested in the know more about the legacy of and struggles of the Girmitiyas, category when completing forms. 

our society, probably because it history of his ancestors a couple of the girmit era, discovering for Nath has named her son Kushān "While growing up in Auckland, 

was such a difficult time and the years ago. The more he uncovers, themselves what happened during Leonidas Bandara-Nath, after the I was indoctrinated to just call 

previous generation didn't want to he says, the more it feels like a those times. 

first ship carrying the labourers. myself Indian," she says. "If, in 

share those stories and relive the system of slavery. 

"Slowly and surely, things are Fiji is on a path for reconciliation, a form, I had ticked the Pacific 

trauma," Rachael Nath, 29, who "People don't want to use changing," Nath says. "There is with leaders from across the islander category, they would tell 

moved to New Zealand from Fiji in that word [slavery] and tend to definitely more discussion around political spectrum signing a me to change it [to South Asian]. 

2019 and works as a journalist in dismiss it," he says. "But, frankly, it now. It's also a very personal Forward Fiji Declaration last Kumar agrees. 

RNZ's Pacific team, says. 

it's time the girmit system thing and differs from household year, hoping to usher in a new "I have faced similar issues," he 

"Even in schools we were taught should be correctly identified for to household. 

era of understanding between says. "I feel ticking South Asian 

a watered-down version, as our what it was." 

"For us, we have been able to the indigenous Fijians and Indo- or Asian or the Indian category, 

textbooks were mainly propagating Nabeelah Khan, a 20-yearold 

journalism student, recalls a that brought my ancestors to Fiji. Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni I don't want to do that." 

trace our history to the very ship Fijians. 

disregards my Fijian heritage, and 

the narrative of the colonisers." 

Vish Kumar, a 22-year-old similar reluctance to discuss the "My great-great-great-greatgreat 

(grand)parents left Calcutta holiday for Girmit Day in 2023. "Why can't we have a separate 

Rabuka announced a public Khan proposes a solution. 

advertising student, agrees. His issue at home while growing up. 

family moved to New Zealand from Her parents migrated from Fiji to [modern-day Kolkata in the Girmit Day is commemorated on Fiji-Indian category if that makes 

Fiji when he was five years old. New Zealand before she was born. Indian state of West Bengal] in 14 May in Fiji and in New Zealand things simple?" 

Australian avocados enter Indian market with Brett Lee as ambassador 

IWK BUREAU 

Avocados Australia 

Limited, the leading 

body representing the 

Australian avocado industry, 

has unveiled its highly 

anticipated foray into the Indian 

market, with Australian former 

international cricketer Brett 

Lee joining as their brand 

ambassador, Fresh Plaza 

reported. 

The announcement was made 

during Avocados Australia's 

Launch Trade Reception at the 

Australian High Commission in 

New Delhi. 

This partnership signifies 

a major milestone for both 

Australian avocados and 

the Indian fresh fruit market. 

Renowned for their premium 

quality and health benefits, 

Australian avocados promise to 

tantalise Indian palates with a 

fusion of flavours, textures, and 

nutrition. 

With Brett Lee on board, the 

launch aims to introduce a 

premium and healthy option to 

Indian households, encouraging 

the inclusion of avocados in daily 

meals and snacks. 

The avocado market in India 

is on the rise, with increasing 

consumption and global demand 

over the past decade. 

Avocados are hailed as a 

nutritious addition to all diets, 

especially for vegetarians. 

The Australian avocado 

industry is experiencing rapid 

growth, producing over 115,385 

tonnes in 2022/23, with forecasts 

indicating a rise to approximately 

170,000 tonnes by 2026. 

In tandem with this growth, 

Australian growers are keen 

to tap into new international 

markets such as India, with 

exports playing a vital role in the 

"With Brett Lee as our 

brand ambassador, 

we are confident that 

Australian avocados 

will become a 

beloved fruit in Indian 

households, enriching 

meals and inspiring 

culinary creativity." 

John Tyas, CEO of 

Avocados Australia 

industry's future sustainability. 

John Tyas, CEO of Avocados 

Australia, emphasised the 

importance of the Indian market 

and outlined the strategy to 

boost the visibility of Australian 

avocados in India. 

He stated, "We are excited 

to introduce the exceptional 

taste and nutritional benefits 

of Australian avocados to the 

diverse Indian market. 

With our focus on exports 

and a commitment to quality 

and service, we are confident of 

establishing a strong presence in 

India. 

While there is 

competition, we 

believe our 

focus on 

quality, service, year-round 

availability, and market support 

will set us apart. 

Additionally, with Brett Lee 

as our brand ambassador, we 

are confident that Australian 

avocados will become a beloved 

fruit in Indian households, 

enriching meals and inspiring 

culinary creativity." 

Brett Lee also expressed 

his excitement about the 

collaboration, saying, "I am 

thrilled to be associated with 

Australian avocados, a fruit that 

embodies health. 

"Throughout my journey, I have 

prioritised nourishing my body 

with good food, which is why 

I'm excited to combine 

this passion with my 

deep affinity for 

India and its rich 

culture. 

"I look 

forward to 

promoting 

the 

exceptional 

taste, quality, 

and versatility of 

Australian avocados."


NEW ZEALAND 11 

Charter schools to get $153m 

in new funding in Budget 2024 

RNZ 

"They also have greater 

operate the same way." 

flexibility in how they spend their The schools will have contracts 

Up to 50 new or converted funding as long as they reach the requiring high performance, 

charter schools will be agreed performance outcomes." Seymour said. 

funded out of Budget 

He told media on Tuesday 

An application process for 

2024, the coalition government 

has announced. 

It has set aside $153 million 

of new funding for the publiclyfunded 

private schools over the 

next four years. 

The money will establish 15 

new charter schools and convert 

35 state schools in 2025 and 

2026, depending on demand and 

suitability. Associate Education 

Minister David Seymour said there 

had been overwhelming interest 

from educators exploring the 

charter model. 

"We've heard from potential 

applicants such as TIPENE St 

Stephen's Māori Boy's Boarding 

School, and AGE School. 

"By focusing primarily on 

student achievement, charter 

schools allow sponsors and 

communities to take their own 

path getting there. 

"They can, with some 

restrictions, set their own 

curriculum, hours and days 

of operation, and governance 

structure. 

"the idea that there's a noholds-bar 

curriculum is not a 

fair assessment of what charter 

schools will be". 

"They will be required to teach 

a curriculum that is as good or 

better than the New Zealand 

curriculum. 

"We are going to demand higher 

standards. Charter schools will be 

the only schools that contract that 

and say 'if you don't do it, your 

funding is at risk and you may 

ultimately be closed down'." 

He said state schools that were 

not performing could be turned 

into charter schools. 

While the school would 

continue, in some cases there 

might be the need for new 

management, he said. 

Charter schools will have 

autonomy and not be forced to 

follow the cellphone ban. 

"They won't be forced to do 

things such as the cellphone ban, 

but if you look at a school like this, 

you don't see any cellphones, and 

I expect that by and large they will 

prospective charter schools will 

open after legislation is passed 

in Parliament. It is expected the 

first charter contracts will be 

signed before the end of the year, 

so the first schools can open for 

Term 1 of 2025. Seymour said 

the changes would lift declining 

educational outcomes. 

"Charter schools provide 

educators with greater autonomy, 

create diversity in New Zealand's 

education system, free educators 

from state and union interference, 

and raise overall educational 

achievement, especially for 

students who are underachieving 

or disengaged from the current 

system." 

"They provide more options for 

students, reinforcing the sector's 

own admission that "one size" 

doesn't fit all." 

Seymour said a new 

departmental agency - 

independent of the Ministry of 

Education - would be created 

to monitor the performance of 

charter schools. 

5000 crimes at New World, Pak n' Save & 

Four Squares in 3 months 

RNZ 

Figures from the supermarket company 

Foodstuffs show retail crime has doubled 

in the past two years. 

More than 5000 incidents were reported in 

the first quarter of this year at 320 New World, 

Pak n' Save and Four Square stores in the North 

Island. 

That's up 56 percent on the same period last 

year, and 116 percent more than two years ago. 

Theft makes up the majority of offences, but 

the company said there has been a big jump in 

cases of violence, assault and harassment. 

There were 60 assaults during the three 

month period and 26 cases of harassment. 

Foodstuffs was continuing to trial 

controversial facial recognition technology in 

25 stores, which it hopes will better identify 

repeat offenders. 

IWK BUREAU 

A 

young mother whose 

car was stolen with her 

baby inside was further 

shocked when she received 

a $200 bill from the police to 

retrieve her vehicle, The New 

Zealand Herald reported. 

The incident occurred last 

Friday when the woman parked 

her car at a dairy on the corner 

of Queen and Cameron streets 

in Waitara, Taranaki. While she 

was inside the store, her car was 

stolen, with her 5-month-old 

baby still inside. 

The mother chased after 

the thief in another vehicle, 

attempting to block their escape. 

North Island general counsel Julian Benefield 

told Morning Report the trial was still in its early 

days but trial stores said they were seeing a 

reduction in crime. 

The data showed repeat offenders made up a 

third of all offences across all stores. 

Benefield said the trial stores were noticing 

repeat offenders being less aggressive when 

approached. 

"We do need more time to ensure that that 

trend is statistically significant but the early 

signs are positive." 

The technology compares people against 

a database of repeat offenders and there was 

only a match when it reached a 90 accuracy 

percent threshold, he said. 

"The really important part of it then is the 

human intervention - trained team members 

then need to check that it is the right person." 

However one supermarket trialling facial 

recognition technology mistakenly identified a 

The thief drove onto the 

footpath as they fled and 

eventually abandoned the baby 

on the roadside nearby. 

Upon finding her baby 

unharmed, the mother was so 

overwhelmed by the situation 

that she fainted, according to her 

Māori woman as a thief. 

Benefield said there was a "huge focus on 

training" in this store after the incident. 

He said the new data showed a "significant 

increase" in crime. 

"Of significant concern is the increase in 

violent and aggressive offences, so we've seen 

a doubling of assaults and harassment in the 

last quarter, which is a real concern." 

father, Shane Young. 

Young expressed frustration 

with the police response, stating 

that he believed they had not 

adequately supported his 

daughter. 

He also mentioned that the 

police had billed her $200 to 

retrieve her damaged car. 

“How do you think she’s feeling 

after this? She’s got no car, she 

only just got her phone back this 

morning. 

"Her car’s been absolutely 

trashed ...” Young said. 

The police defended the fee, 

stating that it is required when 

a vehicle has been forensically 

towed. 

In this case, the vehicle was 

towed and stored for forensic 

IWK BUREAU 

Stats NZ has reported a 

record 52,500 New Zealand 

citizens left the country 

in the year ended March 31, 

marking a significant increase 

from the previous record of 

44,400 departures over a decade 

ago, The New Zealand Herald 

reported. This departure trend 

has led to the first annual net 

migration loss of New Zealand 

citizens exceeding 50,000, 

according to Tehseen Islam of 

Stats NZ. 

While migrant arrival numbers 

had previously peaked, with 

arrivals reaching 244,800 in the 

year ended December 2023, 

they have since declined. For 

the year ended March 2024, 

arrivals numbered 239,000. The 

net migration gain of 111,100 for 

the year consisted of a net gain 

of 163,600 non-New Zealand 

citizens, which more than offset 

the net migration loss of 52,500 

Kiwi citizens. 

Citizens of India constituted the 

largest group of migrant arrivals 

in the March 2024 year, with 

49,800 arrivals. This was followed 

by approximately 31,900 arrivals 

from the Philippines, 26,800 from 

China, and 25,800 New Zealand 

citizens. Other significant groups 

included citizens from Fiji, South 

Africa, Sri Lanka, and the UK. 

ASB senior economist Mark 

Smith noted that many departing 

Kiwi citizens were likely younger 

individuals with skills, trades, and 

earning potential. He attributed 

the departures to Kiwis seeking 

better opportunities abroad, 

particularly in Australia and the 

UK, which are facing similar 

economic challenges but may 

offer more favorable conditions 

than New Zealand. 

Smith predicted that net overall 

migration would decrease from 

the current figure of 111,100 to 

approximately 65,000 due to the 

sluggish New Zealand economy 

and stricter migration entry 

criteria. 

Mom billed $200 by police after car stolen with baby inside 

Supplied photo. 

Net migration 

loss of NZ 

citizens 

surpasses 

50,000 

examination, which is standard 

procedure in such situations. 

The police paid for the initial 

towing and examination, but any 

additional costs, including towing 

and repairs, are the owner's 

responsibility. 

While insurance typically 

covers these fees, the woman 

in this case does not have 

insurance. 

A 27-year-old woman from 

New Plymouth appeared in court 

today on a charge of unlawfully 

getting into a motor vehicle. She 

did not enter a plea and was 

remanded on bail until her next 

appearance. 

Another offender involved 

in the incident has yet to be 

apprehended.

Editorial 

Bleak outlook 

fuelling flight of 

human capital 

QUOTE OF THE WEEK 

“Optimism is essential to achievement and it is 

also the foundation of courage and true progress.” 

— Nicholas Murray Butler 

IN FOCUS : Picture of the week 

New Zealand is grappling with significant challenges: an economic recession, high 

crime rates, and a coalition government cutting spending on essential services. 

Amid these issues, the country is experiencing an alarming flight of human capital, 

further exacerbating the economic downturn. 

In the past year, New Zealand has experienced a significant net migration loss of some 

11,500 people, according to Stats NZ. This outflow is driven by economic and social factors, 

with many Kiwis moving to Australia for higher wages, a better climate and a perceived 

better lifestyle. 

To make matters worse, the government’s erratic immigration policies are creating 

additional hurdles, impacting both migrants and the crucial education export industry. 

New Zealand’s economic woes are stark. 

The country has entered its second recession in less than 18 months, with GDP shrinking 

by 0.1 per cent in the final quarter of 2023 following a 0.3 per cent contraction in the previous 

quarter. This downturn has resulted from aggressive interest rate hikes aimed at controlling 

inflation, which peaked at more than 7 per cent in mid-2022, since declining to 4.7 per cent 

by the end of last year. 

The recession has been felt deeply, with private investment, government consumption, 

and household spending all slowing significantly. 

In response to labour shortages exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic, New Zealand 

initially opened its borders, resulting in record net migration of over 133,000 arrivals last year 

. However, this influx was managed poorly, leading to numerous instances of migrants being 

stranded without jobs after accepting spurious job offers under a poorly thought out and even 

poorly vetted scheme for employers which saw a flood of questionable ‘employers’ making 

fake offers charging thousands of dollars in the migrants’ home countries. Consequently, 

the government has now swung in the opposite direction, imposing stricter immigration 

controls. 

This knee-jerk reaction is proving detrimental to the very sectors New Zealand relies on 

for recovery and growth. 

The education sector, one of New Zealand’s vital economic pillars, is particularly affected. 

New Zealand has been a popular destination for international students, contributing 

significantly to the economy. However, the unstable immigration policies are making the 

country less attractive compared to other destinations like Australia, Canada, and the United 

Kingdom. 

Students are wary of investing in an education in a country where the future is uncertain, 

and visa policies can change abruptly. 

This uncertainty will undoubtedly end up causing a decline in international student 

numbers, directly impacting the education export industry. 

New Zealand’s handling of immigration is not just a problem for the education sector; it 

affects the broader economy and society. 

Migrants are essential for filling labour shortages in various industries, from agriculture 

to technology. 

By making it harder for skilled workers to enter and stay in the country, New Zealand 

greatly risks exacerbating these shortages, hindering economic recovery. 

The perception of instability can deter potential investors and skilled professionals from 

considering New Zealand as a viable option. 

The current government’s cuts in spending on vital services like education, healthcare, 

and public transport add to the sense of instability and decline in living standards. 

These cuts were deemed necessary to manage the economic downturn and address the 

deficits created by the previous government’s profligate spending. However, these austerity 

measures are likely to have long-term negative effects, reducing the quality of life and 

increasing the strain on public services. 

This scenario creates a vicious cycle: as services decline, more people, including skilled 

professionals and recent migrants, are likely to leave, further shrinking the talent pool and 

weakening the economy. 

The government must recognise the critical role that stable and well-considered 

immigration policies play in economic recovery and growth. Instead of abrupt changes, a 

more measured approach is needed—one that balances the need to control borders with the 

necessity of attracting and retaining talent. 

New Zealand’s future depends on its ability to offer stability and opportunity to both its 

citizens and migrants. 

Erratic immigration policies are wreaking havoc on both migrants and the education 

sector, exacerbating the country’s economic and social challenges. 

The government’s knee-jerk reactions—first flooding the country with migrants and now 

clamping down harshly—have created instability and uncertainty. 

To reverse the brain drain and attract essential talent, New Zealand must urgently 

implement strategic, consistent immigration policies and invest in key sectors to attract the 

best possible talent to live and work in the country to reverse the brain drain. 

Indigenous Midget Submarine Prototype 'Arowana' inaugurated during Mazagon Dock 

Shipbuilders Limited’s 250th Foundation Day event. (ANI) 

This week in New Zealand’s history 

22 May 1995 

Waikato-Tainui sign Deed of Settlement with the Crown 

Waikato–Tainui was the first iwi to reach a Treaty of Waitangi settlement with the Crown 

for injustices that went back to the wars and land confiscations (raupatu) of the 1860s. 

The Deed of Settlement included cash and land valued at a total of $170 million. 


First major gold rush in Otago 

Gabriel Read gained fame and fortune when he found gold near the Tuapeka River, a 

tributary of the Clutha River in Otago. 


Coronation of first Māori Queen 

Princess Piki, the daughter of King Korokī, was chosen as the first Māori Queen during her 

father’s tangi, in accordance with Kīngitanga protocol. She assumed her mother’s name, 

Te Atairangikaahu. 


Parliament's first sitting in Auckland 

It started with a bang – 21 in fact, fired from the guns at Auckland’s Fort Britomart. Once the 

smoke cleared, New Zealand’s first Parliament was in business. It was noon on Wednesday 

24 May 1854, and Auckland was to be the colony’s capital city (and home to Parliament) for 

the next 10 years. 


Turning point in Battle of the Atlantic 

The Battle of the Atlantic was one of the most important campaigns of the Second World 

War. It was certainly the longest, lasting 2074 days: from 3 September 1939, the day war 

was declared, to 7 May 1945, the day Germany surrendered. Allied ships were sunk with loss 

of life in the Atlantic on both those days, and on nearly every day in between. 


Three die in Īnangahua earthquake 

The magnitude 7.1 earthquake was centred near Īnangahua Junction, a small community 

40 km east of Westport. It struck at 5.24 a.m., shaking many people from their beds. 

Indian Weekender : Volume 16 - Issue 8 

Publisher: Kiwi Media Publishing Limited 

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

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Accounts and Admin.: 09-2173623 | accounts@indianweekender.co.nz 

Senior Digital Producer: Urjita Bhardwaj | 021 952 246 | urjita@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, 17 May, 2024 

FIJI 13 

Labasa acknowledges Girmit 

descendants 

The commemoration of Girmit history is crucial for the 

Girmit is a time to ponder descendants in comprehending 

about the sufferings that their roots and the experiences of 

our forefathers went through, a their ancestors. 

time to reflect on the past and He says the indentured 

ensure that their struggles and labourers suffered a lot under the 

sacrifices are not forgotten. British rule in Fiji however they 

While officiating at the Girmit stood for what they believed in. 

Day celebration at Subrail Park The Assistant Minister says 

in Labasa last week, Assistant the Girmitiyas have contributed 

Minister for Rural and Maritime a lot to the development of the 

Development Jovesa Vocea nation including the foundation 

highlighted that this is a time of agriculture, particularly the 

to move on from the past and sugar industry, education, politics, 

think of the future as it serves 

as an inspiration for many of us 

teaching us to work hard and Girmit Day is a 

never let our dignity be robbed by 

time to reflect on 

anyone. 

He says Girmit represents the struggles our 

the ancestral journey for many 

ancestors went 

indo-Fijians as it connects them 

to their forefathers who endured through – Minister 

indentured labour. 

Vocea says understanding the Jovesa Vocea 

FIJI is the motherland 

of the Indo-Fijians 

or descendants of 

the Girmitiyas, just as it is for 

our indigenous people, said 

Deputy Prime Minister Prof 

Biman Prasad. 

He said both communities 

had a diaspora overseas. 

“But even those who have 

migrated cannot abandon 

their motherland,” he said. 

He said more than 60,000 

indentured labourers from 

India were shipped across to 

Fiji between May 14, 1879, 

and November 11, 1916, in 

treacherous conditions by the 

British Colonial Masters. 

“Of course, this was after 

Black Birding or shipping of 

people of Melanesian origin to 

other colonies. 

“In Fiji’s case, people were 

brought from the Solomon 

Islands. Members of our 

indigenous community were 

taken to Queensland in 

Australia. We may never learn 

of the identities of those 

members of our indigenous 

community who were taken to 

business, commerce 

and sports. 

He says celebrations 

like this are 

crucial for raising 

awareness in Fiji 

and educating 

people about the 

Girmit era, and 

its significance 

in Fiji's history 

serves as a source 

of inspiration for 

social change. 

89-year-old Ali recalls the struggles of Girmitiyas 

As we celebrate 2024 

Girmit Day today, 

89-year-old Azam Ali 

of Labasa says the Girmitiyas 

are our identity who have 

struggled their whole life 

for the development of the 

country. 

While sharing the story of 

the Girmitiyas, Ali says they 

worked very hard, waking up 

early in the morning, working 

in the plantations, looking 

after their kids and families 

and also getting punished 

for every little mistakes. 

He says we are now 

reaping the fruits of 

our Girmitiyas from the 

struggles and sacrifices they 

went through. Ali says they 

were tricked and were told 

they would have better jobs 

which would change their 

life however they only found 

out the truth after arriving. 

The 89-year-old says 

many people also lost their 

lives in the boat they were 

coming in. 

He also requests the 

government to help the 

people and assist them in 

terms of development and 

growth as many people who 

have land do not have money, 

while some who have money 

do not have land. 

Participants of the Girmit Day celebration in Lautoka. (Photo: Baljeet Singh) 

Queensland. 

“As descendants of the 

Girmitiya, we have and are 

able to trace our ancestry, 

thanks to the availability of 

the Immigrant pass. 

“Therefore, we also 

remember them as we 

commemorate our struggles 

because we must learn from 

history.” 

Four generations in one frame! Suk Dei with son Ami Chand (right) and 

grandson and granddaughter-in-law during the Girmit day presntation 

at Subrail Park in Labasa. (Inset: Her great grandson Shanav Divyash 

Chandra with his medal for attending and respecting Girmitiyas as a 

great grandson) 

As we commemorate 

Girmit Day 

last weekend, 

109-year-old Gangamma 

has shared the struggles 

she and her ancestors 

went through and how far 

they have come. 

Gangamma who is from 

Nadi says some early 

girmitiyas fled from India 

to Fiji for freedom but Gangamma 

when they came here, they 

realised how tough it was going to be. 

She says she had two brothers and two 

sisters with whom she used to work on 

the farms. Gangamma says she has no 

illness such as high blood pressure or 

diabetes however she feels weak most of 

the time due to her age. 

The 109-year-old clearly remembers 

that after a hard day of work, she 

Deputy Prime Minister 

Professor Biman Prasad 

says the Girmityas 

passed the knowledge and 

strength to their children on how 

and when to peacefully seek 

solutions. 

Speaking at the launch of the 

Girmit Day celebrations aWt 

the Girmit Multicultural Center 

in Lautoka, Prasad says the 

ancestors did not demand not 

receive any assistance from 

the British Colonial government 

for education, social security, 

pension, and transport 

assistance. 

During his speech Prasad paid 

tribute to the former leaders 

of Fiji, with the likes of late 

A.D. Patel, S M Koya, and Jai 

Ram Reddy who took on the 

principles of the Girmityas and 

recognised the values on which 

they wanted to build Fiji. 

“The leaders who came out 

were born out of the struggles 

of the Girmitya community 

provided work towards for the 

well-being and welfare of all our 

people beginning from building 

of schools. 

And today 99% of the schools 

in this country were built by our 

church leaders, our religious 

leaders, and our community 

groups.” 

Prasad adds these leaders 

were working together as Fiji 

was coming out of the end of 

the indenture system. 

Motherland for all Indo-Fijians 109-year-old shares Girmit memories 

Girmitiyas' contribution to education and multiculturalism 

President Ratu Wiliame 

Katonivere says one of the 

greatest legacies that was 

born in Fiji was the value Girmityas 

placed in education. 

Ratu Wiliame states this was 

the pillar for change in societies, 

as the Girmitya descendants 

invested in setting up schools 

and education systems in Fiji to 

build knowledge-based society. 

Speaking at the Girmit Day 

celebrations, Ratu Wiliame says 

the legacy of the indenture system 

in Fiji is inspirational and profound. 

He also states that one of the 

significant changes this system 

brought was that Fiji also became 

a multiracial country. 

The President adds that the 

Indians brought their rich cultural 

heritage which included their 

traditions, language, cuisine, 

music, and festivals. 

“Through this intercultural 

dialogue, community engagement, 

and initiatives has aimed at 

bridging ethnic cohesion that 

they have helped nurture a more 

inclusive and unified society. 

The citizens of Indian descent 

and iTaukei interactions has 

shaped the total socio-cultural 

environment in which both groups 

inhabit.” 

Ratu Wiliame says Fijians 

remember the sacrifices made by 

the indentured labourers that laid 

the foundation of the multicultural 

society that we today call home. 

Prasad 

highlights 

Girmityas' 

legacy of 

peaceful 

solutions 

would return home to do 

household chores, cook for 

the family and look after 

any guest that came. 

She says nowadays, 

many people lack 

hospitality skills towards 

their guests. Gangamma 

further says during 

weekends they used to 

do household chores and 

then work on farms and 

also used to plant peanuts 

and give it for free. 

Meanwhile, the theme for the 145th 

Girmit Day celebration was "Journey of 

Girmit Descendants in Building 

a New Fiji". 

The celebrations took place last week 

in Lautoka at Girmit Multicultural Centre 

and Subrail Park in Labasa. Monday was 

a public holiday for Girmit Day.

14 

INDIA 



Chanu Gupta has lived 

in India’s financial capital 

Mumbai nearly his whole 

life, since arriving as a child 

from the northern state of Uttar 

Pradesh. 

But when polls open in the city, 

the 59-year-old street vendor 

won’t be able to vote in the 

nationwide election – along 

with millions of internal migrant 

workers who are a major backbone 

of the country’s economy. 

“I cannot go vote as I don’t 

belong to Maharashtra state,” 

Gupta told media in Mumbai’s 

shopping district Dadar, standing 

next to the roadside cart where he 

sells shaved ice and cold drinks. 

“I have voting rights in another 

state.” 

Under India’s election rules, 

eligible voters can only cast 

ballots in their constituencies – 

meaning those working outside of 

their state have to return home to 

vote. 

That’s all but impossible for 

many out-of-state workers, 

especially underprivileged dailywage 

workers in the unorganized 

sector. And it’s a huge group 

– one study estimates there 

were about 600 million internal 

migrants in 2020, making up 43% 

of the country’s nearly 1.4 billion 

population at the time. 

These workers are often from 

poorer rural parts of India, in 

search of work in bigger cities. 

Even then, they earn low wages 

that are usually sent home to 

support family members. 

Perhaps nowhere is this starker 

“The 

day I do 

Hindu-Muslim, I 

will be unworthy of 

public life...it is my 

resolve that I will 

not do Hindu- 

Muslim.” 

Modi says the day he 

does divisive politics, 

he will be unworthy 

of public life 

Prime Minister Narendra 

Modi has said people 

across religious lines 

will vote for him, maintaining 

the day he does divisive 

politics he will be unworthy 

of public life, days after his 

comments alleging Congress 

will take away reservations 

meant for scheduled castes, 

scheduled tribes, and other 

backward classes and 

give them to Muslims 

as well redistribute 

wealth to the minority 

community sparked 

an uproar. 

“The day I do 

Hindu-Muslim, I will be 

unworthy of public life... 

it is my resolve that I will not 

do Hindu-Muslim,” he said 

in an interview with News18 

India in his constituency of 

Varanasi on Tuesday. 

Modi, who posted clips 

of the interview on X on the 

day he filed his nomination 

for the Varanasi Lok Sabha 

constituency, maintained 

he neither said Hindu nor 

Muslim in his April 21 speech 

in Rajasthan’s Banswara. “I 

said you should have as many 

children as you can support. 

Do not create a situation 

where the government 

has to...” In response to a 

question whether Muslims 

would vote for him or if he 

needed their votes, he said 

the country’s people would 

vote for him. He referred 

to the housing scheme 

and said when houses are 

given, he talks about 100% 

delivery. Modi said when 

homes are given, there is no 

consideration of community, 

caste, or religion. He called 

In the world’s biggest election, millions 

of migrants are unable to vote 

Workers push a cart with packages along a road in front of Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, in 

Mumbai, India, on April 18, 2024. 

than Mumbai – India’s richest 

city and the birthplace of the 

Bollywood movie industry. Often 

referred to as the “city of dreams,” 

Mumbai draws migrants from 

across the country hoping to find 

wealth and success. 

More than 43% of Mumbai’s 

population were classed as 

migrants in 2011 during the last 

national census, according to 

migration think tank Knomad. 

Many come from states with 

higher poverty and unemployment 

rates such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, 

Rajasthan and Gujarat. 

Signs of that diverse mix are 

everywhere in Mumbai – the 

varied languages spoken, the 

many day laborers across the 

city, from auto-rickshaw drivers 

to construction workers and 

sugarcane juice vendors lining the 

streets. 

For these workers, forgoing 

daily wages to head home to vote 

would come at a high cost – both 

in the money they would spend 

getting there, and lost wages. And 

those losses have a ripple effect 

on the family members back home 

dependent on their income – from 

children missing out on tuition 

fees to elderly parents’ rent and 

food costs. 

The Covid-19 pandemic only 

underscored the volatility of 

migrant workers’ circumstances 

when millions lost their jobs 

almost overnight and were forced 

to go home. 

“Despite the living expenses 

being relatively high in large 

cities as compared to villages, 

their wages are considerably low 

causing poor living conditions 

including limited or non-existent 

public services such as water 

and sanitation,” said one United 

Nations-led study that examined 

the impact of the pandemic on 

this segment of the workforce. 

100% saturation social justice 

and true secularism. “...there 

is no chance of corruption in 

it. You know that if another 

person got it this Monday, I 

will get it next Monday.” 

The comments came days 

after the Election Commission 

of India (ECI) sent a notice to 

the Bharatiya Janata Party 

(BJP) chief JP Nadda in 

response to the Congress, 

Communist Party of India, 

and Communist Party of 

India (Marxist–Leninist) 

Liberation’s complaints about 

Modi’s Banswara speech. 

Opposition leaders targeted 

Modi over the comments with 

Congress chief Mallikaarjun 

Kharge calling the remarks 

“hate speech”. Kharge said 

that Modi had “lowered the 

dignity of political discourse”. 

In the notice to Nadda, the 

S 

Jaishankar claimed that 

Western countries “feel” 

they have influenced the 

world for last 200 years, so they 

cannot give up their “old habits 

so easily”. 

External affairs minister 

S Jaishankar has hit out at 

the Western media over the 

“negative” coverage of Indian 

elections, saying the countries 

that “have to go to court for 

deciding election results” are 

giving “gyan” on conducting 

polls. 

S Jaishankar also claimed 

that the Western countries “feel” 

they have influenced the world 

for the last 200 years, so they 

cannot give up their “old habits 

so easily”. 

Interacting with the audience 

after the launch of the Bangla 

edition of his book ‘Why Bharat 

Matters’ in Kolkata, S Jaishankar 

said, “They (Western countries) 

do want to influence us because 

many of these countries feel that 

they have influenced this world 

for the last 70-80 years...Western 

countries actually feel that they 

influenced the world for the last 

200 years. 

"How do you expect someone 

who has been in that position to 

give up those old habits so easily.” 

Jaishankar claimed that the 

Western media want a certain 

“class of people” to rule the 

country and feel “disturbed” when 

the Indian electorate doesn't 

feel the same way. Jaishanakar 

was responding to a question 

on allegations made against 

ECI said star campaigners 

have to set high standards 

of political discourse and 

observe provisions of the 

Model Code of Conduct in 

letter and spirit. 

In its complaint, the 

Congress highlighted a part 

of Modi’s speech in which he 

said when the party was in 

power it said Muslims have 

the first right to the country’s 

resources. Modi questioned 

who will they redistribute 

resources to. “Those who 

have more children. Those 

who are infiltrators. Will 

your hard-earned money be 

given to infiltrators? Will you 

accept that? The Congress 

manifesto says they will take 

stock of the gold owned by 

our mothers and sisters, and 

then they will redistribute that 

wealth." 

S Jaishankar's 'gyan' dig at Western 

media over Indian elections: 

‘Countries that go to court…’ 

India by Canada and the US of 

poll interference, and conducting 

operations on foreign soil. 

"Why are these newspapers 

so negative on India? Because 

they see an India that is not in 

a sense compliant with their 

image of how India should be. 

They want people, ideology, or a 

way of life...they want that class 

of people to rule this country, 

and they are disturbed when the 

Indian population feels otherwise," 

Jaishankar said at the event. 

The minister also alleged that 

Western media, at times, “openly 

endorsed candidates and political 

parties”.


WORLD 15 

India hands over second 

tranche of humanitarian 

assistance to Kenya 

Indian High Commissioner 

to Kenya, Namgya Khampa, 

on behalf of the Indian 

government, handed over the 

second tranche of 40 metrictonne 

of humanitarian assistance 

to flood-affected Kenya. 

"On behalf of Govt. of India, High 

Commissioner handed over 2nd 

tranche of 40MT of humanitarian 

assistance for flood-affected 

Kenyans to @SectoCabinet_KEH 

on @WanjauMercy & CS @ASALs_ 

KE Hon @peninah_malonza," 

the Indian Embassy in Kenya 

posted on X. The humanitarian 

aid sent to the country included 

Humanitarian Assistance and 

Disaster Relief containing 40 

tonnes of medicines, medical 

supplies and other equipment 

to assist flood victims. Aid was 

sent through an Indian Air Force 

aircraft from Hindon Airport of 

India’s High Commissioner to Kenya Namgya C. Khampa during the handing over of 2nd tranche of 40MT of humanitarian assistance for 

Ghaziabad to Kenya. 

flood-affected Kenyans to Secretary to the Cabinet of the Republic of Kenya Mercy Wanjau, and CS State Department for ASALs Peninah 

Sharing details of the aid sent Malonza, on behalf of the Government of India on Tuesday. 

to Kenya, Jaishankar said on X, 

"The second tranche of HADR 

Earlier on May 10, India handed have died, thousands have been most catastrophic weather events 

material containing 40 tonnes of 

over food, relief, and medicine displaced and nearly 2,000 

in the country for years. Now, 

medicines, medical supplies and supplies to Kenya as the first schools have been destroyed. Cyclone Hidaya is expected to hit 

other equipment to assist the responder in the Indian Ocean All remaining schools have been Kenya and neighbouring Tanzania 

flood victims leaves for Kenya. Region (IOR). 

shut down until further notice, Al late on Friday, which could further 

Standing up for a historical 

Torrential rains have caused Jazeera reported on May 4. worsen the flooding. 

partnership, a Vishwabandhu to devastating floods in Kenya, 

Rains have been ravaging Kenya This comes amid recent heavy 

the world." 

where more than 200 people since March during some of the rainfall across East Africa. 

India, Russia hold bilateral consultations on Afghanistan 

India and Russia held bilateral 

consultations on Afghanistan 

on Wednesday in New Delhi 

and discussed the current 

situation of the Afghan people. 

According to the Ministry of 

External Affairs, Russian Special 

Presidential Envoy for Afghanistan 

Zamir Kabulov and Joint Secretary 

(Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran 

Division) in the Ministry of External 

Affairs JP Singh discussed the 

current situation in Afghanistan. 

They emphasised the need to 

provide development assistance 

for the welfare of the Afghan 

people. 

In a post on X, the Russian 

Embassy said, "On May 15, in 

#NewDelhi Zamir Kabulov, Special 

Presidential Envoy for Afghanistan 

& Director of @mfa_russia Second 

Asian Department, held inter-MFA 

consultations on #Afghanistan 

with J.P.Singh, JS for Pakistan, 

Afghanistan & Iran, #India's MEA." 

"Amb. Zamir Kabulov, 

Special Presidential Envoy for 

Afghanistan and J.P. Singh, Joint 

Secretary (PAI) discussed the 

current situation in Afghanistan 

and emphasized on the need to 

provide development assistance 

for the welfare of the Afghan 

people," MEA added. 

The situation in Afghanistan is 

dire, and India is a major provider of 

humanitarian assistance. Taliban 

took control of Afghanistan on 

August 15, 2021, as US and NATO 

forces made a hurried and chaotic 

exit after almost two decades of 

war. 

India has always supported "an 

Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and 

Afghan-controlled" process for 

enduring peace and reconciliation 

in Afghanistan. (ANI) 

India, Norway 

hold Foreign 

Office 

Consultations, 

discuss 

cooperation in 

blue economy, 

green 

hydrogen 

India and Norway held Foreign 

Office Consultations (FOC) on 

Tuesday and discussed ways 

to expand and diversify bilateral 

cooperation in a range of areas 

including blue economy, renewable 

energy, climate and environment 

and green hydrogen. 

The two countries also lauded 

the signing of India-EFTA TEPA 

this year in March and hoped to 

expedite the implementation of the 

agreement at the earliest, which 

will further enhance bilateral trade 

and investment. 

India-European Free Trade 

Association (EFTA) signed the 

Trade and Economic Partnership 

Agreement (TEPA) on March 10 

this year. 

India has been working on a 

Trade and Economic Partnership 

Agreement (TEPA) with EFTA 

countries comprising Switzerland, 

Iceland, Norway & Liechtenstein. 

The Union Cabinet chaired had 

approved signing of the TEPA with 

EFTA states. EFTA is an intergovernmental 

organization set up 

in 1960 for the promotion of free 

trade and economic integration 

for the benefit of its four member 

States. The Indian delegation at 

the 11th India-Norway Foreign 

Office Consultations was led by 

Pavan Kapoor, Secretary (West), 

Ministry of External Affairs. 

The Norwegian delegation was 

led by Torgeir Larsen, Secretary 

General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs 

of the Kingdom of Norway. 

The last FOC took place in Oslo 

in November 2022. 

Ministry of External Affairs said 

in a release that the relationship 

between India and Norway is 

marked by "excellent political 

exchanges, and extensive bilateral 

institutional mechanisms". 

"Cooperation in the blue economy 

for sustainable development, 

including in marine and maritime 

sectors, is the cornerstone of the 

bilateral relationship between the 

two countries," the release said. 

"Acknowledging the strong 

collaboration in various sectors, 

both sides discussed ways to 

diversify bilateral cooperation." 

India, Zimbabwe hold third session of joint trade committee 

The delegates of India and 

Zimbabwe held the third 

session of the India- 

Zimbabwe Joint Trade Committee 

(JTC) in Delhi. 

During the session, both sides 

reviewed the bilateral trade and 

noted the vast potential that exists 

between the two countries. 

The session was jointly chaired 

by Priya P. Nair, Economic Adviser 

of the Department of Commerce, 

Ministry of Commerce and 

Industry and Rudo. M. Faranisi, 

Chief Director of Economic 

Cooperation, International Trade, 

and Diaspora at the Ministry of 

Foreign Affairs and International 

Trade, Government of Zimbabwe. 

"Both sides agreed to make 

concerted efforts towards 

enhancing bilateral trade. 

Both sides agreed to explore 

signing of Memorandum of 

Understanding (MoUs) for 

regulatory cooperation in Digital 

transformation solutions, Telemedicines, 

Rough diamonds, fast 

payments system and traditional 

medicine among others" said the 

Ministry of Commerce & Industry. 

In this session, both sides 

identified several areas of focus for 

enhancing bilateral cooperation 

in pharmaceuticals, Geospatial 

Sector, healthcare, machinery and 

mechanical appliances, vehicles, 

electrical machinery, mineral 

fuels, mineral oils and products of 

distillation, plastics and articles, 

iron and steel, agriculture and food 

processing, engineering sector, 

renewable energy, digital economy, 

textiles, capacity building, etc. 

The delegates also agreed on 

closer collaboration between the 

Investment Promotion Agencies 

and Chambers of Commerce of 

both sides. 

The deliberations of the 3rd 

Session of India-Zimbabwe JTC 

were cordial.

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 

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 

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Richard Auer 

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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) 


SUDOKU SOLUTIONS 

46 47 

52 

56 

59 

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Your Weekly Horoscope: 18 May - 23 May, 2024 

ARIES (MAR 21-APR 20) 

It’s set to be a good week for you financially, 

with the Sun highlighting money and 

how you earn, save or spend it. As the 

Sun connects with restrictive Saturn, the 

planet that's currently influencing your 

moods, memories and ideas, the cosmos 

is encouraging you to invest in things that, 

until now, you’ve only dreamed about. What – or who – is 

truly important to you in life that’s worth investing your time 

in as well as money? 

.TAURUS (APR 21-MAY 20) 

It could feel like all your birthdays have 

come at once this week, with a New 

Moon in your sign encouraging you to 

rethink your approach to life as well as 

how you approach other people. Use 

the next six months to revamp your look 

and your outlook. With quirky planet 

Uranus in your sign, you’re more open to change and doing 

something new than you’d ever thought you could be. 

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUN 21) 

You’re always full of bright ideas but often 

you give up on them too quickly and go 

chasing after the next big thing before 

you've finished what you've already 

started. This week you get a helping hand 

from the cosmos to commit to an idea that 

could seriously benefit your career. Saturn 

connects to the Sun now, encouraging you to persevere with 

a creative endeavour that's inspiring and original, that could 

also have long-term rewards in store for you. 

. CANCER (JUN 22-JUL 20) 

Friendships and your ambitions are the 

big themes for you this week, with the Sun 

adding zest to all your collabs, hopes and 

dreams. As the Sun aligns with sensible 

Saturn, you get a cosmic push to help 

make fantasy a reality. Saturn gives you 

the determination to create a structure that 

you can build big dreams upon, with a little faith and luck, 

and a lot of determination. 

LEO (JUL21-AUG 20) 

Your ruler the Sun is currently shining a light 

on your career, giving your work life a boost 

as well as an annual cosmic appraisal. The 

Sun connects with serious Saturn in your 

communication zone now too, so you’re 

being gifted with the power to turn a concept 

into a ‘thing’, whether this involves getting 

a project underway that so far has only been developing in 

your imagination, or by training to give you added skills to 

take the next step up the career ladder. Feeling fidgety? 

VIRGO (AUG 23-SEP 23) 

Life’s bigger picture calls to you now, and 

it could feel like a call you have to answer 

and act upon. The Sun is pushing you to 

encounter situations. experiences and 

people who would usually be out of your 

comfort zone. It’s a chance to think big and 

dream bigger, but also, with sensible Saturn in the picture 

too, to align yourself with others who can steer you in the 

right direction as mentors. 

LIBRA (SEP 24-OCT 23) 

You will be keen to impress those who 

matter on the professional front. Being 

regular in your workouts will prove good 

for your health. You will be much more 

conscious of your financial situation now, 

than previously and budget your expenses. 

Organising a function or an event on the 

home front can keep some busy today. 

SCORPIO (OCT 24-NOV 22) 

Good financial planning can get you in a 

happy state. Professional front brightens 

up for some as new projects come your 

way. Some of you are likely to participate 

in a fun-filled activity on the home front. 

Resuming an exercise routine is indicated 

for some. Getting something new may get 

some youngsters all excited. A trip may get cancelled or 

postponed. Some sacrifice on your part will be required to 

get close to your partner emotionally. 

SAGITTARIUS (NOV 23-DEC 21) 

You are likely to adopt healthy options 

to achieve total fitness. You are likely to 

grasp a situation on the work front quickly 

and turn it to your advantage. There are 

indications that some of you can be asked 

to travel out of the station on short notice. A 

lucrative deal that brings in good returns is 

likely to be seized. Religious-minded will be able to achieve 

total peace of mind. Socialise more. 

CAPRICORN (DEC 22-JAN 21) 

Completing an assigned job will give you 

the edge at work. Discussing investment 

options with a financial expert will help you 

make the correct decision. Homemakers 

may be tempted to buy an appliance or 

gadget. Your fitness regime will benefit. 

Property investments may not get 

immediate results but promise big money at a later date. The 

desire for a change of scene may take you out on an exotic 

vacation. 

AQUARIUS (JAN 22-FEB 19) 

You are likely to benefit immensely by 

making health your priority. Despite rising 

expenses, you will be able to remain 

fairly well off financially. You may have 

to seek alternatives if you are unable to 

accomplish something at work. Efforts 

on the academic front put in now will pay 

rich dividends later. People are likely to 

appreciate your upholding the family traditions. A chance to 

convert an official trip into a leisurely one may come to some. 

PISCES (FEB 20-MAR 20) 

An active lifestyle will help keep minor 

ailments at bay. You will manage to plan 

your expenses well to remain within the 

budget. Homemakers will need to be 

motivated to go in for cleaning and painting 

of the house. A promotion or increment 

is likely for some, especially those in the 

armed forces. Those travelling on a long journey will be able 

to find entertaining company en route. The social front can 

keep some busy entertaining guests.


FEATURE 17 

Fried chicken 

Ingredients 

• 2 pounds chopped into cubes 

chicken 

• 1 cup all purpose flour 

• salt as required 

• 4 cup vegetable oil 

• 1/2 cup buttermilk 

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 

• black pepper as required 

Method 

• Crispy and juicy Fried Chicken 

makes for a nice appetizer, 

which is sure to win you 

accolades at parties. 

• Here’s how you can make this 

interesting dish at home and 

you will be surprised that it is 

actually very easy to prepare. 

• Take a plastic bag and put allpurpose 

flour in it. 

• Season the flour with salt and 

black pepper. 

• Also add paprika and mix 

it well with flour. Now, take 

chicken and cut it into small 

pieces. 

• Put buttermilk in a bowl 

and dip chicken pieces in 

buttermilk for few times. 

• Then transfer the dipped 

Healthy cooking every day 

chicken in the flour bag and 

mix it well to coat the chicken 

pieces well with flour. 

• Seal the bag tightly and shake 

it well. Now place coated 

chicken on a tray and cover it 

with a dish towel. 

• Keep it aside for few minutes. 

• Make sure the flour gets a 

paste-like consistency. Check 

in between. Meanwhile, take a 

large pan and heat vegetable 

oil on a high flame. 

• Add coated chicken pieces in 

the pan and deep fry on a high 

flame for 25 minutes. 

• When chicken turns brown in 

colour, cover the pan with a lid 

and reduce the heat. 

• Cook the chicken on medium 

flame for 30 minutes. 

• Cook until they are crisp. 

• Once crispy, put them on a 

paper towel and drain off the 

extra oil from fried chicken. 

Serve while it’s still hot! 

Southern fried chicken 

When you think about • 2 teaspoon powdered black 

the popular southern pepper 

cuisine from the rich • 3 tablespoon paprika 

culinary traditions of the United • 1 teaspoon ginger 

States, the first thing that comes • 4 teaspoon mixed herbs 

to your mind must be fried 

chicken. 

Ingredients 

• 500 gm chicken drumsticks 

• 2 cup refined oil 

• 1 cup all purpose flour 

• For Marination 

• 1 cup yoghurt (curd) 

• 2 teaspoon garlic powder 

• 2 teaspoon onion powder 

• 1 tablespoon sugar 

Method 

• For making this amazing 

Southern recipe, first prepare 

the spice mix for seasoning 

the chicken. For that, add 

black pepper powder, garlic 

powder, paprika, ginger 

(grated), mixed herbs, sugar, 

and onion powder in a bowl. 

Combine all these spices 

together. 

• Take 4 teaspoons of the 

seasoning mix and add it in a 

large container. Add yogurt to 

it and mix well. 

• Now, add the chicken pieces 

in the container and mix them 

well with the yogurt and spice 

combination. 

• Cover the plastic container 

with its lid and let the chicken 

pieces marinate by placing 

it in the refrigerator for 8-10 

hours. 

• Sieve and add all purpose flour 

on a flat plate. Add 1 teaspoon 

of the earlier prepared spice 

mix to the flour and mix them 

well. 

• Once the chicken has been 

marinated, take the plastic 

container out, transfer the 

chicken pieces to a plate, and 

drain the excess marinade. 

• Put the marinated chicken 

pieces on the flat plate and 

dredge them with the flour and 

spice mix. 

• Put a deep bottomed pan on 

medium flame and heat oil in 

it for frying the chicken pieces. 

• Once the oil is hot enough, 

add the chicken pieces in the 

pan and let them fry till they 

are crisp and golden-brown. 

Remove the pieces and drain 

the excess oil. 

Crispy fried chicken wontons 

Ingredients 

• 300 gm minced chicken 

• 3 minced spring onion leaves 

• 2 tablespoon fish sauce 

• 1 teaspoon powdered spice black 

pepper 

• 1/2 tablespoon refined oil 

• 2 large minced onion 

• 2 egg whites 

• 2 tablespoon sugar 

• 22 wonton wrapper 

• 1 egg yolk 

Method 

• Mix the minced chicken, onions, 

spring onions, egg white, fish 

sauce, pepper powder and sugar in 

a large bowl. 

• Mix the batter well for 4 to 5 

minutes or until it gets lightly stiff. 

• Separate the wonton wrappers and 

cut each into triangles and add 1 or 

2 tablespoon of the minced chicken 

mixture on each triangle. 

• Brush the edges with the egg yolk 

and place another triangle on top. 

Now press the edges and seal 

completely. 

• Heat oil in a deep frying pan over 

medium flame and fry the prepared 

wontons for 2 to 3 minutes on each 

side or until golden brown and 

crispy. 

• Remove when done and drain the 

excess oil. Serve hot with ketchup 

or chilli sauce. 

Lighter Takes 

& Easy Tips 

Bohri fried chicken legs 

Fried Chicken Legs is a delicious 

Mughlai recipe. The main 

ingredients used to prepare 

this lip-smacking recipe are chicken, 

eggs and spices. Bohri Fried Chicken 

Legs is an easy-to-cook snack recipe 

which can be served with tomato 

ketchup or mint chutney. 

Ingredients 

• 9 pieces chicken legs 

• 2 tablespoon garlic paste 

• 3 tablespoon corn flour 

• 5 gm green chilli 

• 4 tablespoon bread crumbs 

• refined oil as required 

• 1 teaspoon salt 

• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala 

powder 

• 1 teaspoon red chilli powder 

• 1 tablespoon cumin powder 

• 2 egg 

• water as required 

Method 

• Place a deep shallow pan over 

medium flame. Add water (as 

required), chicken legs, salt and 1 

tbsp garlic paste and boil it for 15 

minutes. 

• Meanwhile, chop black pepper 

and green chilies. Keep them 

aside in separate bowls. 

• Once the chicken legs become 

tender, turn off the heat. Remove 

the chicken leg pieces and keep 

aside in a bowl. Reserved the 

mixture and let it cool down. 

• In a deep bowl add chicken 

legs, garam masala powder, 1 

tablespoon garlic paste, corn flour, 

red chili powder, chopped green 

chili, cumin powder, black pepper, 

bread crumbs and egg. Mix all the 

ingredients well and refrigerate it 

for 30 minutes. 

• Then heat oil in a pan. Also, beat 

an egg in a bowl and dip chicken 

legs in it. Then deep fry the chicken 

until they turn golden brown in 

colour. Bohri fried chicken is now 

ready. 

Triple-dipped fried chicken 

Ingredients 

• 1 quart vegetable oil for frying 

• 4 cups all-purpose flour, divided 

• 1 ½ tablespoons garlic salt 

• 1 tablespoon ground black 

pepper 

• 1 tablespoon paprika 

• ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning 

• 1 ½ cups beer, or as needed 

• 2 egg yolks, beaten 

• 1 teaspoon salt 

• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper 

• 1 (3 pound) whole chicken, cut 

into pieces 

Method 

• Heat oil in a deep fryer to 350 

degrees F (175 degrees C). 

• Mix 3 cups flour, garlic salt, 1 

tablespoon pepper, paprika, and 

poultry seasoning together in a 

medium bowl. 

• Stir 1 1/2 cups beer, remaining 1 

1/3 cups flour, egg yolks, salt, and 

1/4 teaspoon pepper together in a 

separate bowl; thin with more beer 

if batter is too thick. 

• Moisten chicken pieces with a 

little water, then dip in seasoned 

flour mixture. 

• Shake off excess and dip in beer 

batter, then dip in the seasoned 

flour mixture once more. 

• Lower chicken pieces carefully 

into the hot oil in batches. 

• Fry until crispy and well-browned, 

about 15 to 18 minutes. 

• An instant-read thermometer 

inserted near the bone should 

read 165 degrees F (74 degrees 

C). Transfer to a paper towel-lined 

plate to drain.

18 

ENTERTAINMENT 

Manoj Bajpayee: 

Kantara, Animal, 

RRR, Article 370 

‘are entertaining 

and original’ 

Actor Manoj Bajpayee revealed the recent list of 

films he’s impressed with. Talking to Pinkvilla, 

he said he enjoyed recent films, including some 

popular choices in Hindi and other languages. Here’s 

what he said. 

‘Films have to be original’ 

Manoj was all praise for Rishab Shetty’s Kantara, 

Ranbir Kapoor’s Animal, Yami Gautam’s Article 370, 

apart from Ram Charan and Jr NTR’s RRR as the films 

he found ‘entertaining and original’. 

Talking to the website at an event, he said, “Mujhe 

Kantara bahut acchi lagi. Kantara mujhe uss karan 

se bhi achhi lagi ki wahan ke ritual, wahan ka jo faith, 

aur waha se jo hai ek badiya mainstream film banayi. 

Kantara mere liye reference point hai. (I liked Kantara 

a lot because of its rituals, faith and how it was still 

mainstream. It is a reference point for me.)” 

He also added that he found SS Rajamouli’s RRR, 

Article 370 and Animal good for similar reasons. “Mujhe 

RRR bhi acchi lagi thi mainstream films mein. dhar jo 

film dekhi maine, jaise Article 370 dekhi maine ya fir 

Animal dekhi. Acchi films hai, matlab entertaining hain. 

Original to aapko rakhna padega, kahaani aapki original 

rehni hai. Kuch nayi kahaani aapko bolni hai. (The 

films I watched here like Article 370, Animal have been 

entertaining and good. You have to keep your films and 

stories original for them to work)” 

Manoj was most recently seen in Silence 2: The Night 

Owl Bar Shootout which was released on Zee5. He 

was also seen in Killer Soup on Netflix. He will soon be 

seen in films titled Bhaiyya Ji, Despatch and The Fable. 

Bhaiyya Ji will be released in theatres on May 24. 

Rashmika praises PM Modi: 

'It's freaking brilliant in the last 

10 years how India has grown' 

Rashmika Mandanna 

said 'young India 

is growing at fast 

speed'. The actor added 

that ‘India is the smartest 

country’ as she lauded PM 

Modi. 

Actor Rashmika 

Mandanna has talked about 

the Atal Bihari Vajpayee 

Sewri-Nhava Sheva Atal 

Setu, which Prime Minister 

Narendra Modi inaugurated 

in January. 

In an interview to ANI, she 

said it is a game-changer 

for Mumbai's transportation 

network. The actor also 

lauded the PM and said 

'India is not stopping 

anywhere'. 

While speaking about Atal 

Setu, Rashmika said, "The 

journey of two hours can be 

done in 20 minutes. 

As in, you wouldn't even 

believe it! Who would have 

thought that something 

like this would have been 

possible. 

Aaj Navi Mumbai se 

Mumbai tak, Goa se 

Mumbai tak aur Bangalore 

se Mumbai tak (From Navi 

Mumbai to Mumbai and Goa 

to Mumbai and Bengaluru 

to Mumbai), when all the 

journeys have been made 

"I think now, at 

least, India is 

not stopping 

anywhere. 

Now look at 

the country's 

growth. It's 

freaking brilliant 

in the last 10 

years how the 

country has 

grown." 

so easily and with such 

amazing infrastructure! It 

makes me proud." 

She added, "I think now, at 

least, India is not stopping 

anywhere. Now look at 

the country's growth. It's 

freaking brilliant in the 

last 10 years how the 

country has grown. The 

infrastructure, the plan 

in our country, the road 

planning, everything, it is 

just brilliant - I think now 

it's our time! I just got to 

know that it's all done in 

seven years and it's 20 km. 

It's amazing! Look at it. I am 

speechless honestly... India 

is the smartest country, I 

would like to say!" 

Rashmika also said that 

'young India is growing at 

such fast speed'. The youth 

is being 'very responsible' 

now and is 'not getting 

influenced by whatever you 

say', the actor added. People 

are actually seeing, people 

are being very responsible 

and the country is 'headed in 

the right way', she added. 

Rashmika is gearing up 

for the release of Pushpa 2: 

The Rule, co-starring Allu 

Arjun. She was seen with 

Ranbir Kapoor in the 2023 

blockbuster Animal. 


Tabu has been roped 

in to play Sister 

Francesca in Dune: 

Prophecy, the prequel 

to Hollywood film Dune. 

Here’s a look at times she 

worked in the West before 

Movie buffs woke up 

to an exciting news this 

morning. One of the 

most versatile actors 

of Bollywood, Tabu has 

bagged an exciting 

‘recurring’ role in the 

upcoming science fiction 

TV series Dune: Prophecy. 

The star will be seen as 

Sister Francesca, who 

has been described as 

a strong, intelligent and 

impactful character. Well, 

this won’t be the first time 

Tabu ventures in the West. 

As we wait for her first 

look as Sister Francesca, 

let’s revisit her successful 

international projects from 

the past. 

Hanuman (1998) 

It was in 1998 that Tabu 

made her international 

debut with the French- 

Indian film Hanuman, which 

was alternatively titled The 

Lately, Bollywood actor Alia Bhatt has 

been getting global attention with her 

back-to-back stunning appearances 

at popular events including, Met Gala 2024. 

The growing wave seems to have hit a 

roadblock with her name appearing in the 

Blockout 2024 list, which also features 

names of other global personalities such 

as Priyanka Chopra and Taylor Swift. 

Alia has found herself in the middle 

of a brewing stir because of her alleged 

silence on the situation in Gaza. It came 

after she turned heads at this year’s Met 

Gala on May 6 dressed in a stunning 

saree by Sabyasachi. She followed the 

appearance with another international 

outing: the actor attended the Gucci Cruise 

Show 2025 in London on May 13. 

She has been accused of being 

‘complicit’ for her inaction and not driving 

the attention towards the ongoing Israel- 

Gaza conflict. 

The celebrity blocklist also include 

other popular names such Virat Kohli, 

Priyanka, Kim Kardashian, Taylor Swift, 

Beyonce, Kylie Jenner, Zendaya, Miley 

Cyrus, Selena Gomez, Ariana Grande, 

Demi Lovato, Kanye West, Katy Perry, Zac 

Efron, Nick Jonas, Kevin Jonas, Justin 

Timberlake and many others. 

In the past few months, the Blockout 

2024 movement gained traction on social 

media, especially TikTok, where users call 

out celebrities who haven’t spoken up 

enough on Israel’s attacks on Gaza. 

It was after Met Gala 2024 when it 

gathered more steam with people sharing 

their lists of blocked celebrities on different 

social media platforms. 

The boycott effort aims to compel 

these prominent figures to utilise their 

Monkey Who Knew Too 

Much. She portrayed the 

role of Anja in the English 

language film while actor 

Nithya Menen, who made 

her debut as a child artist, 

played Tabu’s younger 

sister 

The Namesake (2006) 

Tabu took the whole 

world by storm with her 

phenomenal performance 

in Mira Nair’s directorial The 

Namesake, based on 

Jhumpa Lahiri’s book of 

the same name. She won 

hearts and received critical 

acclaim for her portrayal 

of Irrfan Khan’s onscreen 

wife and Kal Penn’s mother, 

Ashima Ganguli 

Life of Pi (2012) 

Despite having limited 

screentime in Ang Lee’s 

masterpiece Life of Pi, 


Before Dune: Prophecy, Tabu rocked the 

international audience with these 4 projects 

Tabu left a deep and lasting 

impact on the audience 

with her performance as 

Pi’s mother Gita Patel. She 

was loving and nurturing, 

like a true Indian mother. 

ama won several accolades 

A Suitable Boy (2020) 

In this British TV 

miniseries, which marked 

a reunion between Mira 

Nair and Tabu, the actor 

portrayed the role of singer 

and courtesan Saeeda 

Bai. She mesmerised not 

just the audience but also 

Ishaan Khatter, whose 

character Maan fell head 

over heels in love with 

Saeeda. Their sizzling and 

very convincing chemistry 

was one of the biggest 

highlights of this series 

Tabu has never failed to 

win hearts, may it be in our 

own country or the West. We 

can’t wait to see her do the 

same as Sister Francesca 

in Dune: Prophecy when the 

fantasy series premieres. 

Alia Bhatt’s name added to 

Blockout 2024 list after Met 

Gala for silence on Gaza crisis 

wide-reaching platforms for advocacy, 

specifically urging for calls for ceasefire. 

It symbolises a digital protest where 

individuals across social media are 

purposefully blocking celebrities due to 

their silence regarding the Israel-Gaza 

conflict or, in some cases, their alleged 

backing of the conflict. 

Meanwhile, there are 

many celebrities who are taking a stand on 

the Israel-Gaza conflict. 

They are being praised for taking a 

stand. Actors such as Mark Ruffalo, Ramy 

Youssef, and John Cusack are among 

those who are actively striving to speak 

out against the war. 

Several stars, including Billie Eilish, 

Finneas O’Connell, and Mahershala Ali, 

wore red pins on the red carpet, signifying 

their support for Artists4Ceasefire at this 

year’s Oscars ceremony.

“I just really don’t know where I would 

have been without them. My mentor 

taught me how to keep things organised, 

how to get clients, how to market, how to 

speak to people, how to have processes 

for my business to be successful.” 

Belinda Bullock 

Whether you are looking for a mentor like Belinda from Belinda Bollock Photography, or interested in 

business savings, networking or a range of our other services the Auckland Business Chamber is here 

to make it easier for you to do business no matter where you are in your business journey. 

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aucklandchamber.co.nz

The Indian Weekender | 17 May 2024

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