The Indian Weekender| 03 October 2025

Friday, October 3, 2025
Volume 16 / Issue 79
Read • Watch • Engage
www.iwk.co.nz /indianweekendernz /indianweekender
GOOD NEWS
Positive Outlook On Upcoming Skilled Migrant Category Changes
PAWANDEEP SINGH
The recently announced changes to
Immigration New Zealand’s (INZ)
Skilled Migrant Category have
generated widespread excitement among
both onshore applicants already in the
country and offshore migrants looking
to make New Zealand their future home.
These reforms, which broaden the eligibility
criteria for residence pathways, are being
viewed as a welcome move to support both
New Zealand’s labour market needs and the
aspirations of migrants seeking stability and
long-term settlement.
As a firm processing a significant number
of student visa applications, particularly from
the Indian subcontinent, we have already
observed a surge in inquiries following the
announcement. Families and individuals
are eager to understand how these changes
could benefit their migration journey. The
policy shifts appear to be unlocking fresh
opportunities for a wide demographic,
from experienced professionals to younger
students considering New Zealand as their
study destination.
Over the past several years, the majority of
applicants have been working professionals
aged between 30 and 45. For many of them,
Representational image
the primary motivation has been to pursue
a master’s degree in New Zealand, with the
dual goal of securing a high-quality education
and providing a better lifestyle for their
children. Under the existing Skilled Migrant
Category (SMC6), completion of a master’s
degree allows applicants to claim five points
towards their residence application. This has
already made New Zealand a highly attractive
option for mid-career professionals, and
with the upcoming changes, we anticipate a
further 30 percent increase in this trend.
Interestingly, younger students
completing Class 12 have, in recent
years, shown relatively limited interest
in pursuing bachelor’s degrees in New
Zealand. The reason is clear: under current
settings, bachelor’s graduates are required
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NEW ZEALAND
Friday, October 3, 2025 3
IWK BUREAU
For many immigrants in New
Zealand, one of the most
cherished moments is when
parents, family, or friends can
finally visit the home and life they
have built. For some, it happens
within a year; for others, it may take
two or even longer due to various
challenges. The process can feel
overwhelming, with costs, travel
logistics, and paperwork all playing
a part. Getting everything right is
essential for a smooth visit.
If you are planning to host family
or friends by the end of this year,
Immigration New Zealand has a
clear message: apply early for your
visitor visa.
Planning ahead can save time,
reduce stress, and ensure your loved
ones’ visit is as joyful as it should be.
“We encourage anyone planning
to visit New Zealand over the
summer holiday period to apply
for their visa as early as possible,”
Immigration New Zealand said
in a statement. Summer is one
of the busiest times of the year,
with a significant increase in visa
applications from people wanting
to spend Christmas with loved ones
or explore New Zealand during the
warmer months. With more people
applying during this peak travel
period, processing times can be
longer than usual. “To give yourself
the best chance of having your visa
decided in time, we recommend
submitting your application as early
as possible. Applying early helps
ensure you can plan your travel
with confidence, including booking
flights, accommodation, and other
arrangements,” the statement
Family Coming To NZ This Year?
Key Tips From Immigration
Representational image
added. Applications submitted
closer to the holiday period may
face delays due to the high number
of applications received, which
could affect travel plans.
Submit a Complete
Application
It is important to include all the
information and documents
required when you apply. If anything
is missing, processing will take
longer, or your application could
be declined. If your application
is not complete, you will have to
apply again and pay another fee,
which could mean missing out on
travelling over the holidays.
Tips for a Smooth
Application Process
To help Immigration New Zealand
process your application efficiently,
you will need to provide:
• A passport that is valid for at
least 3 months beyond your
planned departure from New
Zealand
• A copy of your passport or
certificate of identity
• A photo that meets requirements
• Personal details that are accurate
and match your passport
• Evidence of your genuine
intention to visit New Zealand
temporarily and return home
afterwards
• All supporting documents in
English, or certified translations
To apply, you must:
• Have plans to leave New Zealand
at the end of your stay
• Have enough money to pay
your living expenses or have an
acceptable sponsor
• Not plan to work in New Zealand,
unless working remotely for a
business overseas
• Meet the other requirements of
this visa
Immigration New Zealand
recommends travellers do not book
any non-refundable travel until after
their Visitor Visa is approved.
Applicants may be issued either
a multiple-entry or single-entry visa,
based on the assessment of their
application.
Visitor Visa Details
• How long you can stay depends
on whether you have a multipleentry
or single-entry visa
• You can stay up to a maximum of
9 months in an 18-month period
Alert: If you have a single-entry
Visitor Visa and you leave the
country, your visa will expire.
Who Can Apply
To apply for a Visitor Visa, you must:
• Be in good health
• Be of good character
• Have genuine reasons for coming
to New Zealand
• Have enough money to pay
your living expenses, or have an
acceptable sponsor
• Show that you can leave New
Zealand at the end of your stay
Mitre 10 is lighting up
Aotearoa for the fifth
year running with
Diwali celebrations to honour the
festival’s spirit of joy, unity, and
belonging. What began in Auckland
has now expanded nationwide -
recognising the growing Indian
communities across New
Zealand and embracing the
diversity that defines the Kiwi
identity. Since 2021, Diwali has
become a cherished tradition
at Mitre 10, celebrated through
vibrant in-store displays, Hindi
music, traditional sweets, and
cultural education for both team
members and customers. This
year, stores will receive festive
kits including greeting posters,
floral garlands and more.
Customer-facing events like Easy
As Kids workshops offer rangolishaped
diya making activities,
while Support Centre staff host
puja and share traditional treats.
It’s all part of Mitre 10’s mission
to make everyone feel: ‘This is a
place for me.’
Mitre 10 Marks Fifth Year of
Diwali Celebrations
Team Involvement and
Belonging
At the heart of this is Mitre 10’s
commitment to cultural inclusion.
“At Mitre 10, we celebrate what
makes each person unique.”
says Jules Lloyd-Jones,Chief
Marketing Officer of Mitre 10. “Our
aim is for every team member to
feel proud of their own stories,
backgrounds and beliefs and
to bring their whole self to
work. We’re a family and we are
committed to embracing cultural
differences.” Support Centre staff
host puja (Hindu prayer), share
reflections, and enjoy traditional
Indian treats—creating moments
of connection and learning across
the business.
Community Connections
Diwali also reaches customers
through Easy As Kids workshops
held on the 19th of October, the
weekend before the festival.
At Mitre 10 stores throughout
the country, children are invited
to create rangoli-shaped diya,
offering a fun and culturally rich
experience that brings families
together. “Diwali or Deepavali - is a
beautiful opportunity to celebrate
our culturally diverse team and
wish one another good health,
prosperity and light,” Jules Lloyd-
Jones adds.
Why It Matters
New Zealand’s cultural landscape
continues to evolve, Mitre 10
is leading by example. “We’re a
proudly locally owned Kiwi brand,
and that means embracing the full
spectrum of what Kiwi looks like
today,” says Jules Lloyd-Jones.

4 Friday, October 3, 2025 Read online www.iwk.co.nz
NEW ZEALAND
Updated MOU To Welcome
Chinese Tourists To NZ
IWK BUREAU
New Zealand has signed
an updated agreement
with selected Chinese travel
agents to streamline visitor
visa processing under
the Approved Destination
Status (ADS) and Free and
Independent Traveller (FIT)
scheme. The Memorandum
of Understanding (MOU)
was signed in Shanghai
on 25 September by
Alison McDonald, Head of
Immigration New Zealand
(INZ), and Tourism New
Zealand Chief Executive
René de Monchy.
The updated MOU aims to
strengthen New Zealand’s
tourism relationship with
China and shorten visa
processing times. Under
the new agreement, INZ
will process ADS and FIT
applications within five days,
down from the previous 10-
day commitment. The MOU
also allows ADS agents
to include applications for
Chinese travellers attending
events, meetings, incentive
trips, and study tours in
their itineraries.
“China is a key market
for New Zealand’s tourism
sector, and INZ is committed
to doing our part to grow
Representational image
visitor numbers and support
the economy,” McDonald
said. “In the 2024/25
financial year, INZ approved
over 226,000 visitor visas
for Chinese nationals, and
we want to see that number
increase even further. ADS
agents play a critical role
in helping us get more
Chinese visitors to New
Zealand and we know that
providing certainty about
an individual’s ability to
come here helps make New
Zealand a more attractive
holiday destination.”
De Monchy said the
agreement would enhance
travel experiences for
Chinese visitors. “China
is New Zealand’s third
largest inbound visitor
market, with the number
of Chinese holiday
visitors up 8% over the
past year. The ongoing
ADS arrangement plays a
key role in ensuring tour
groups from China on
holiday in New Zealand
enjoy a high-quality, safe,
100% Pure New Zealand
visitor experience all year
round,” he said.
The MOU complements
broader immigration changes
aimed at making New
Zealand more accessible
to Chinese visitors. Most
Chinese nationals now
receive a five-year multipleentry
visitor visa. From 3
November 2025, Chinese
travellers arriving from
Australia will be able to
enter New Zealand using
a New Zealand Electronic
Travel Authority (NZeTA) for
stays of up to three months,
without a separate visitor
visa.
Upcoming Skilled Migrant
Category Changes
FROM PAGE 1
to complete three years of skilled work
experience before qualifying for residence.
This has been a deterrent for many, given
the longer wait time. However, the revised
policy significantly shifts this dynamic.
Bachelor’s degree holders will now be
able to claim five points and qualify for
residence after just one year of skilled work
experience, rather than three. This change
is expected to spark renewed enthusiasm
among younger students, opening New
Zealand to a demographic
that had previously looked
elsewhere.
The new policy is also
advantageous to those with
overseas qualifications.
Under the revised points
system, overseas bachelor’s
degree holders will be able
to claim four points, while
those with overseas master’s
degrees will be eligible for
five points. This recognition of overseas
qualifications creates a more inclusive
pathway for international candidates,
many of whom bring valuable experience
and skills that can contribute immediately
to New Zealand’s economy.
Beyond degree qualifications, the
government has also acknowledged the
importance of trade and technical skills.
Under the new categories for skilled work
experience and trades/technician roles,
individuals who may not hold bachelor’s
or master’s degrees will now have clearer
pathways to residence. This broadens the
scope of eligibility and reflects the critical
role tradespeople and technical workers play
in sustaining New Zealand’s infrastructure
and industries.
Overall, these changes represent a
significant step forward for immigration
policy. They not only make New Zealand more
accessible for a wider range of applicants
but also demonstrate a forward-looking
approach to workforce planning. However,
the ultimate success of these initiatives will
depend on the country’s ability to generate
sufficient job opportunities.
As more migrants invest
in education and career
pathways in New Zealand,
the government must take
strategic measures to ensure
that meaningful employment
is available. This balance will
be essential to ensure that
the migrants’ investment—
both financial and personal—
yields the long-term rewards
they seek, while also strengthening New
Zealand’s economy and communities.
The reforms are already having a positive
impact, creating momentum in both offshore
and onshore markets. For aspiring migrants,
the message is clear: New Zealand is opening
its doors wider, and for those prepared to
contribute their skills and experience, the
opportunities ahead look promising.
Pawandeep Singh is a Licensed
Immigration Adviser from Kiwiana
Immigration

LIGHTEN THE LOAD
OF TYPE 2 DIABETES.
Portrayed by an actor. For illustration purposes only.
Finally, a CGMS that’s priced within reach.
Living with diabetes can feel like a lot. But you don’t have to do it alone.
CareSens Air CGMS is like a helpful friend by your side, sending glucose
readings directly to your smartphone and tracking levels throughout the day.
The sensor is small, lightweight, easy to apply, and lasts for 15 days. But best of
all, it’s available at a price that makes sense.
Scan to learn more
caresensair.co.nz
Always read the label and follow the instructions.
Pharmaco (NZ) Ltd, Auckland TAPSXXXX
ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. The CareSens Air continuous glucose
monitoring system is indicated for the management of diabetes mellitus in people aged 18 years and over.
CareSens Air is a class IIb medical device. For important safety information, please refer to the Instructions For
Use. Talk to your healthcare professional to see if this product is right for you. If glucose alerts and readings do not
match symptoms or expectations, use a blood glucose meter to make diabetes treatment decisions. For device
compatibility see caresensair.co.nz. Pharmaco (NZ) Ltd, Auckland 0825CSA03 TAPS NP23358. August 2025

6 Friday, October 3, 2025 Read online www.iwk.co.nz
NEW ZEALAND
Disclaimer: This advertorial is
for general information only and
not a substitute for professional
medical advice. Views are the
contributor’s and not necessarily
The Indian Weekender’s. Please
verify details and consult a
qualified healthcare professional
before making health decisions.
SUPPLIED CONTENT
New, more affordable continuous
glucose monitor to help people
with Type 2 diabetes better
manage their condition
On 1st October, New
Zealand-owned healthcare
company Pharmaco (N.Z.)
Ltd launched the new CareSens Air
Continuous Glucose Monitoring
(CGM) system in New Zealand at
a price to increase accessibility
for people living with diabetes in
the currently un-subsidised Type
2 market.
Starting at $96 per month ($48
per sensor) inclusive of GST,
CareSens Air is a high-quality
CGM with similar levels of sensor
life, size and data transmission to
other CGMs with prices ranging
from $190 - $379 per month,
based on current CGM retail
prices from NZ CGMS distributor
websites. This means that CGMs
are now a much more affordable
tool to help people with Type 2
diabetes and their healthcare
professionals better manage the
condition, customise treatment
and help prevent high and low
glucose events.
‘Game-Changer’ Set To
Disrupt NZ Diabetes Market
There is a growing body of
evidence that supports the use
of CGMs for people with Type
2 diabetes, as they can offer
continuous, real-time insights into
how lifestyle choices, such as food
and exercise, and medications,
affect blood sugar through the
day and night. This helps to
improve diabetes management by
encouraging healthier behaviour,
enable personalised care, prevent
high and low glucose events,
and minimise the need for finger
pricking to test blood sugar levels.
Working with Korea-based
i-SENS, CareSens Air CGMs
features a small, discreet sensor
worn on the back of the upper arm
that transmits real-time glucose
readings via Bluetooth to a
compatible smartphone using the
CareSens Air app. It automatically
tracks glucose levels, providing
real-time glucose readings and
trend data throughout the day and
night. Healthcare professionals
can also access patients’ glucose
data remotely through Sens365, a
secure, cloud-based web platform,
enabling more proactive and
informed care.
CareSens Air has the potential
to benefit the approximately
271,411 people in New Zealand
estimated to have Type 2
Photo: supplied
diabetes, according to Health New
Zealand. Pacific peoples face the
highest rates (13.7%), followed by
Indian (10.3%) and Māori (8.2%)
populations.
Prior to launch, close to 190
people with Type 1 and Type 2
diabetes took part in clinical trials
of CareSens Air in New Zealand
led by world-leading diabetes
researcher, Professor Ben Wheeler
MB ChB(Otago) DCH PhD CCE
FRACP of the University of Otago,
over a three-year period starting
in 2021, to provide an instructive,
real-world trial of the device.
Professor Wheeler is a Paediatric
Endocrinologist and Paediatrician
working for the University of
Otago and Health New Zealand -
Southern. His research focuses on
access to and use of new
technologies for children,
young people, and adults
affected by diabetes,
as well as factors that
impact on glycaemic
control in diabetes.
Professor Wheeler says:
“We are lucky to have teams in New
Zealand who are world leaders in
the area of diabetes technology
research. We compared CareSens
Air to a gold standard glucose test
and to other CGM products, looking
at the experience of wearing it,
how well users insert it and, most
importantly, is it accurate? The
trials have shown that this sensor
has a good profile. It’s small, it lasts
for 15 days, and it’s accurate and
good quality. And the price point is
extremely exciting. It is particularly
well placed for people with Type
2 diabetes. We’ve got 300,000
Kiwis living with Type 2 who we
desperately need to improve
outcomes for. This allows us to
get much more equitable access
of CGM into the Type 2 community,
which we desperately need.”
Chandra Selvadurai, Managing
Director of Pharmaco (NZ)
Limited, says: “To date,
people living with Type
2 diabetes in New
Zealand have had some
CGM options, but as
they are not subsidised
they have been
inaccessible for many
Kiwis. We wanted to
change that and bring
to market a CGM just as good as
other options but at a price that is
more accessible”.
“Supporting people with
diabetes is really important to
me. In fact it is personal. My
father had diabetes, and I would
have loved it if this device had
been available to him. Now the
technology is here, my team and
I at Pharmaco are delighted to
bring this game-changing device
to market.
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NEW ZEALAND
Friday, October 3, 2025 7
Mum Rejoices As Son With Down
Syndrome Gets Residency
IWK BUREAU
Christchurch mother, Prince,
has won a decade-long
fight to bring her son, Jap
Sahib, who has Down syndrome,
to live with her in New Zealand,
with Immigration Minister Chris
Penk approving the teenager’s
residency.
The decision, the mother told
The New Zealand Herald, will give
her son a “new life” after years of
legal wrangling and appeals.
The case, first reported by
The Herald last month, involved
Immigration New Zealand (INZ)
considering applications for Jap
Sahib, who initially came to New
Zealand on a visitor visa with
his mother in 2014 at the age of
five. Subsequent student visa
and visitor visa applications were
rejected, and Jap was asked to
leave the country. An appeal to
the independent Immigration &
Protection Tribunal in 2016 was
also unsuccessful.
Penk confirmed to The
New Zealand Herald that he
had carefully considered all
submissions relating to Jap Sahib
and had decided to grant him a
resident visa.
The breakthrough follows years
of campaigning by the mother,
who has worked as a chef in
Christchurch for the past ten
years, as well as advocacy from
supporters. While she continued
to work and fight for her son
to join her in New Zealand, Jap
remained in India under the care of
his grandmother. The mother told
The Herald that Jap’s father, also
in India, has longstanding alcohol
addiction issues.
Green MP Ricardo Menéndez
March intervened in the case in
May this year, urging Minister Penk
to grant residency. Menéndez
March told The New Zealand
Herald that he was delighted with
the outcome.
Aine Kelly Costello from
Migrants Against the Acceptable
Standard of Health Aotearoa
(MAASHA) said she was overjoyed
with the decision and relieved that
Photo:
Prince
with her son
Jap Sahib/
Supplied
Penk had intervened, noting that
the mother had spent eight years
living apart from her son. She
criticised the “unjust” immigration
policy, which had prevented the
mother from reuniting with her
child for so long.
INZ’s acceptable standard of
health (ASH) policy considers
whether an applicant could place
“significant cost to, or demands
on, New Zealand’s health services”
and the potential impact on
education. The mother had always
maintained she could provide the
additional health and education
support her son required. Kelly
Costello described the process as
unfair, expensive, and degrading,
with families forced to prove the
worth of their disabled relatives at
every stage.
Notice to drivers
Fewer lanes on
Pakūranga Road
Saturday 20 September to Friday 24 October
so that Rā Hihi – flyover above Reeves Road – can open in October.
Major work is needed on Pakūranga Road to build the access to Rā Hihi – flyover – so it can open during October, five months
ahead of schedule. We are working round the clock to get the job done and improve travel for east Aucklanders.
From Saturday 20 September to Friday 24 October there will be fewer lanes on Pakūranga Road. Expect significant
congestion and delays. Plan ahead to avoid travelling at peak times.
To find out more, visit easternbusway.nz/construction. Visit AT.govt.nz/journeyplanner to plan your journey.
Rā Hihi – flyover – opening dates:
1 October – from Pakūranga Road towards Waipuna Bridge
27 October – open in both directions

8 Friday, October 3, 2025 Read online www.iwk.co.nz
NEW ZEALAND
Why Diwali Should Be A State Holiday
NARENDRA BHANA
California is moving towards
recognising Diwali as a public
holiday. New Zealand should do
the same. For more than 300,000
Indians who live here, Diwali is the
most important day of the year.
It is a time to be with whānau,
honour our elders, share delicious
food with neighbours, and recommit
to learning, kindness, and hard work.
Diwali has been celebrated in our
Parliament since 2010, and our cities
host large, family-friendly events that
draw people of every background.
In practice, the festival is already
part of the national rhythm. Making
it a State Holiday would bring policy
into line with our lived reality and
send a clear message about who we
are as a nation.
We visit parents and grandparents,
forgive old grievances, donate
to charity, and open our doors to
friends and colleagues. Familyowned
businesses set goals for the
year ahead. Schools use classroom
activities to explore themes of
knowledge, self-discipline, and
generosity. Councils plan festivals
that showcase music, dance, rangoli
art, and regional cuisines.
Matariki has shown how a welldesigned
day of observance can
deepen understanding and bring
people together.
A national Diwali day would do
the same by inviting everyone to join
a celebration of renewal, learning,
and service. It would support family
wellbeing because Diwali falls on
Representational image
a weekday most years. Without a
holiday, parents work while children
celebrate at night or on a weekend,
or vice versa.
Aligning the observance to a
national day reduces stress and
lets families and communities
celebrate in step. It would also
boost local economies. Diwali
festivals drive foot traffic and
spending. A predictable national
holiday would help businesses plan
events, promotions, and community
activations across hospitality, retail,
arts, and tourism.
Most importantly, it aligns with our
national brand. New Zealand prides
itself on fairness and inclusion.
Recognising Diwali is a confident
statement about the diverse
threads that make up Aotearoa and
shows the world that we celebrate
difference.
Concerns can be addressed
with straightforward policy design.
With good planning the net effect
can be positive, especially for
small businesses that lean into
Diwali programming. Recognition
of Diwali does not diminish other
communities. Our calendar already
reflects our heritage and values
through Waitangi Day, Anzac Day,
and Matariki.
Government could pair Diwali with
a fair framework for all, such as a
floating cultural observance day for
employees who wish to observe Eid,
Lunar New Year, Vaisakhi, or other
significant days. The date changes
each year, but so does Easter.
Publishing observance dates at least
five years ahead
would give schools,
businesses, and
essential services
the certainty they
need. There are
practical options.
Parliament could legislate a full State
Holiday on the lunar-calendar date,
Mondayised if it falls on a weekend.
It could set observance on the
closest Friday or Monday to create
a long weekend for national events
while supporting rituals on the actual
day. It could combine a Diwali State
Holiday with one floating cultural day
for every employee to ensure equity
and flexibility across workplaces.
Any option should be supported with
clear guidance for payroll, rostering,
public events, and school calendars.
Implementation is straightforward.
Legislate with a three-year ramp,
confirm the holiday, and publish
observance dates five years out
while aligning school assessments
to avoid clashes. Support councils
and organisers to co-fund safe,
sustainable, and inclusive regional
festivals with vendor training and
simple toolkits. Create classroom
resources that link Diwali’s
themes to the New Zealand
Curriculum. Measure outcomes
across participation, visitor spend,
community sentiment, and wellbeing,
then refine based on evidence.
Diwali already belongs to New
Zealand. Our Parliament has
marked it for years. Our streets
fill with lights and colour. Our
neighbours join in. A State Holiday
would recognise the contributions
of Indian New Zealanders and
invite the whole country to share
a celebration that champions
humility, generosity, learning,
and hope. California’s move adds
momentum, but our case stands on
its own. This is about the nation we
(Indians) call home, one that honours
its many stories, gives families time
to be together, and turns shared
values into shared traditions. It is
time for New Zealand to make Diwali
a State Holiday and choose the light
together.
Narendra Bhana, Immediate Past
President, New Zealand Indian
Central Association Inc (NZICA)

Read online www.iwk.co.nz
NEW ZEALAND
Friday, October 3, 2025 9
Children’s Efforts To Help Punjab Flood Victims
IWK BUREAU
Children at Rotorua’s Playtopia
Educare are showing that
age is no barrier to making a
difference. Driven by empathy and
a desire to help, they launched a
project to support families impacted
by the recent floods in Punjab, India.
With support from their families,
the children set up a donation box,
contributed items from home, and
shared their learning between the
centre and their households. The
funds collected were sent directly to
two NGOs in Punjab through trusted
connections—ensuring the money
went toward food, blankets, and
other essential items for families
who had lost everything.
“Our children showed deep
empathy for people living so far
away, understanding that farming
communities in Punjab have been
devastated by these floods,” said
Wendie
Photo: Supplied
MacDonald, senior teacher at
Playtopia Educare. “Through this
experience, they have learned that
compassion and aroha can travel
across the world.”
To support the children’s learning,
Wendie drew a map of Punjab,
allowing families to mark their
places of origin. The centre also
invited Sadar Balwant Singh to
explain the geography of Punjab
and how the release of dam waters
led to widespread flooding.
Children prepared messages
of aroha, recorded short videos,
and shared their thoughts on the
initiative.
Playtopia Educare expressed
gratitude to all families and children
who contributed. “This project was
truly driven by our tamariki,” said the
team. “Their passion and love for
a region far away but close to their
hearts is inspiring.”
The initiative reflects Playtopia
Educare’s multicultural philosophy
and aligns with the Rotorua
Multicultural Council’s work. With
a strong Punjabi community at the
centre, the project has strengthened
cultural connections while
fostering values of empathy, global
citizenship, and kindness.
We’ll help you find the sweetest mortgage deal whether it’s your first home,
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11–12 October 2025
Aotea Square
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3 stages, food stalls, fireworks
For the full festival line-up visit
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12 NEW ZEALAND
Friday, September 26, 2025 Read online www.iwk.co.nz
Akl JP & Accountant
Suren Sharma Admits
Part In $1.8M Fraud
IWK BUREAU
Karaka pensioner and respected
A justice of the peace, Suren
Sharma, has admitted his role in
an international fraud in money
laundering linked to a $1.8 million
international investment scam that
defrauded 12 victims, The New
Zealand Herald reported.
Despite the plea, no conviction
has been entered because his lawyer
indicated Sharma intends to apply
for a discharge without conviction.
According to The Herald, Sharma
faces up to seven years in prison after
entering his guilty plea on Friday at the
Auckland District Court. Judge Steve
Bonnar, KC, granted him bail and set
sentencing for January next year.
Sharma, 74, worked as a registered
Inland Revenue Department tax agent
and was director and shareholder of
multiple companies. He has denied
wrongdoing since his arrest in January
last year and was originally due to
stand trial next week.
When approached by The Herald
outside court, Sharma declined to
comment on his guilty plea. Asked
if he had a message for victims, he
said that would happen “when I see
the judge the next time.”
Court documents stated Sharma
used his bank accounts to help
offshore criminals siphon nearly
$1.8m from New Zealand investors
who believed their funds were going
into term deposits or governmentbacked
bonds. He claimed he
never met the victims but received
contracts and passport details
through a third party in Australia
authorising him to invest the money
in Bitcoin. Before his arrest, Sharma
was secretly recorded telling a
private investigator that his BNZ
bank account had been frozen due to
“suspicious activity.” He maintained
that he did not know the money
was stolen, saying, “I don’t have the
money … I am not involved.”
One victim, Deepak Udhani, who
lost $100,000, welcomed Sharma’s
guilty plea but condemned him as
selfish and without ethics. Udhani
told The Herald he was horrified
Sharma would seek a discharge
without conviction, saying he
believed the pensioner had stashed
the money away “for a rainy day.” He
said he had not recovered any of his
savings and hoped Sharma would be
jailed for the full seven years.
According to The Herald, Udhani
also raised concerns that Sharma
had been able to continue working
as an accountant and tax agent
despite the charges. The IRD
declined to comment on Sharma’s
current registration status, citing
privacy rules. Sharma, who has
been a justice of the peace since
the 1980s, initially fought to keep his
name secret, arguing his reputation,
business and mental health would
suffer if identified. However, a judge
lifted suppression in May, ruling
public interest outweighed his right
to anonymity.
Police described Sharma as
a “money mule” for the offshore
syndicate. A summary of facts said he
received $1,865,099 into accounts he
controlled and personally benefited by
about $101,484. The money, obtained
between November 2022 and October
2023, was transferred overseas or
converted into cryptocurrency, with
most of it never recovered.
In an affidavit, Sharma said he
had acted on instructions from an
Australian company, WIAG, and
believed the transactions were
legitimate Bitcoin investments. He
maintained he did not deal directly
with the victims.
Crown prosecutor Pip McNabb said
Sharma legitimised the scams by
providing New Zealand bank accounts
to receive fraudulent funds. She said
his expertise as an accountant and
tax agent meant the public placed a
high level of trust in him and expected
vigilance in handling client money.
Man Charged After
Threats To Seriously Harm
Puppies In Auckland
IWK BUREAU
44-year-old man has been
A charged after allegedly
threatening to seriously harm
three puppies and being seen
hitting them near Parnell Train
Station on Sunday evening, RNZ
reported.
Police said they were alerted
by a concerned member of
the public, and CCTV footage
later showed the man putting
the puppies into a bag and
punching them. He was arrested
on Cheshire Street shortly after
and has been charged with illtreatment
under the Animal
Welfare Act, according to acting
Auckland Central Area prevention
manager Senior Sergeant Dave
Plunkett.
“It’s senseless why someone
would want to bring harm upon
these young pups,” Plunkett said.
“I’d like to acknowledge those
members of the public who called
police immediately, allowing us
to prevent further harm.”
The puppies, believed to be four
to six months old Staffordshire
Bull Terriers, were rescued and
are now in the care of an Auckland
Council animal management
shelter, RNZ reported.
Regional shelter manager Nikki
Cripps said incidents like this
happen far too often.
“These puppies didn’t ask to
be born, and they certainly didn’t
deserve to end up in danger,” she
said. “If people would simply
desex their dogs, we wouldn’t see
this endless cycle of unwanted
litters and needless suffering.
People who cannot register,
desex, microchip, and provide
proper care should not own one.”
Hindu Women Forum To Host 3rd Tongariro Crossing
IWK BUREAU
The Hindu Women Forum
(HWF) is preparing for its third
Tongariro Alpine Crossing on 15
November 2025, an initiative that
has been gaining momentum
across New Zealand with growing
participation from women of all
ages.
“Interest is growing, and we are
aiming to have participants from
across Aotearoa, from Whangarei
to Dunedin,” the Forum said in a
statement.
During the inauguration of
New Zealand Hindu Women
Conference, held on 20 September
at the High Commission of India
Auditorium in Wellington, women
were encouraged to participate in
the third Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
The first Tongariro Alpine Crossing
was held in November last year
and second was held in February
2025.
Organised by HWF, a division
of the Hindu Council of New
Zealand, the conference was the
first Hindu Women’s Conference to
be hosted outside India. Centred
on the theme “Promoting Women
– Strengthening Communities”,
the conference brought together
more than 120 women, including
community leaders, educators,
professionals, entrepreneurs,
students, and homemakers. The
gathering explored how Hindu
values, coupled with modern
opportunities in leadership,
entrepreneurship, and service, can
support women while also tackling
the challenges they face today.
The conference was
inaugurated by Neeta Bhushan,
High Commissioner of India to
New Zealand, who served as the
Chief Guest. Speakers from across
the country shared their journeys,
inspiring others to engage in
leadership and community roles.
Among them was IT professional
Namitha Raj, who spoke about her
experience of completing
the Tongariro Alpine
Crossing in February 2025.
Known for her adventurous spirit,
Namitha described the trek as
both physically demanding and
mentally restorative.
“Tongariro Crossing is more than
just a long walk—it’s like therapy,
only with epic views and sore legs,”
she said. Reflecting on the route,
she added, “the hike takes you
Photo:
Second
Tongariro Alpine
Crossing in
February 2025/
Supplied
through volcanoes, past
those crazy blue lakes, and
across some of the most
unreal landscapes you’ll ever see.”
Namitha emphasised the
reflective nature of the journey,
noting, “there’s something about
being out there—just you, your
thoughts, and nature—that clears
your head. No phone signal, no
stress, just step after step.”
Hindu Council President Dr
Guna Magesan said Namitha’s
speech at the forum encouraged
many other women to register for
the upcoming crossing.
Although driven by HWF,
the initiative is designed to be
inclusive. Organisers stressed
that the Alpine Crossing is familyfriendly,
welcoming partners,
brothers, friends, and supporters
to take part in the hike or provide
encouragement along the way.

Read online www.iwk.co.nz
LIFESTYLE
Friday, October 3, 2025 13
Signature Look: Slay Your First Date
Dr Mehak Jonjua
Journalist, Author & Media Mentor
X @janjuamehak
New faces, new conversations, and the
crucial question of what to wear make
first dates both thrilling and nerveracking.
A “first date uniform” is a surprisingly
contemporary act of self-care in a world
where our closets can feel like mazes.
This concept, which psychologists refer
to as “enclothed cognition”, holds that our
clothing indirectly influences our emotions and
how other people see us. People who wore
clothes they associated with success reported
feeling 62% more confident, according to a
2015 University of Hertfordshire study. It’s the
difference between squirming into your chair
and entering a café with your head held high, so
that bump isn’t insignificant. It turns out that our
inner states can be subtly amplified by fashion.
Furthermore, “uniform” does not imply
boring or generic. Consider it your personal
talisman, your signature style. A flowing
bohemian dress that exudes artistic vitality; a
silk blouse worn with power pants that exudes
“elegance with ambition”; or a sophisticated
monochrome jumpsuit with striking earrings!
These are indicators of who you are before
you even say hello; they are not costumes
for other people to look at. Without using any
words, you are narrating a story.
Additionally, there is a practical advantage.
According to researchers, we make more
than 35,000 decisions every day, so decision
fatigue is real. Choosing your go-to first date
attire in advance frees up mental space,
allowing you to be more playful and in the
moment. You’re putting on an outfit that
already feels successful rather than going
through your closet.
Above all, a first-date uniform is an outfit
you have already decided on because it
makes you feel at ease, attractive, and like
yourself. It has nothing to do with playing a
part or seduction. It all comes down to having
a consistent; go-to style that best captures
your essence. It could be a navy silk wrap
dress with ankle boots for some women, or a
white shirt tucked into well-fitting pants with a
striking cuff bracelet for others. The important
thing is that you don’t have to second-guess
it because it’s pre-selected, fits well, and you
know you look good in it.
You dress to feel like yourself, not to
be chosen by others. That is a first-date
uniform’s secret power. Slipping into it
causes your shoulders to loosen up, your
posture to improve, and your focus to change
from “Do I look okay?” to “I’m ready for this
conversation.” This is what psychologists
refer to as “enclothed cognition”: the clothing
elicits the self-assured mood you associate
with it. You’re entering something you’ve
already tried in your own life rather than
standing in front of the closet in a panic.
The best accessory will always be
confidence, but the fastest route to achieving
it is a well-chosen ensemble that inspires that
confidence. Wearing a uniform on a first date
saves time, reduces decision fatigue, and
communicates your personality—whether it’s
polished professionalism, playful creativity, or
elegant minimalism.
Therefore, consider your first date uniform
a gentle ritual rather than a piece of armour
the next time you’re asked out! It’s your own
starting point: a piece of clothing that gives
you a sense of self-expression, groundedness,
and readiness to enjoy the evening. You’re
leaving in clothes that already make you feel
like the best version of yourself, rather than
rushing to achieve the “perfect” look.
Pic Credit: Devon Divine
Triumvirate Powering India’s
Starry Ad Campaigns
Glitter, Gravitas & Growth
Pic Credit: Adeel Shabeer
Dr Neeraj A Sharma
Honorary Consul General of the Republic of
Palau to India
X @Neerajpalau
Bollywood has long been one of India’s
most vibrant cultural exports, and
its inventive clichés are now being reenacted
in the field of e-commerce
marketing with amazing flair. The most
recent trend, a veritable “Kumbh Mela”
of celebrity endorsements, follows a
tried-and-true formula: bring together a
glittering pantheon of stars, craft a story
that speaks to humour and aspiration, and
then ignite commerce on a grand scale.
Take Flipkart’s recent “India Ka Fashion
Capital” campaign, which compared movie
stars with digital-first influencers in a tactic
reminiscent of the ensemble casts of Hindi
films from the 1970s. By enlisting a variety
of well-known figures, from screen icons to
Instagram’s nouveau-riche content creators,
Ajio has also capitalized on this zeitgeist.
This confluence of varied ‘followerships’,
each of which enhances the campaign’s
reach in a fragmented media landscape, is
not just celebrity clutter.
This strategy’s effectiveness is not
anecdotal. Campaigns with multiple
celebrities had a 22% higher recall rate
and an 18% stronger purchase intent than
those anchored by a single face, according
to a 2023 Kantar study on the effectiveness
of Indian advertising. The psychological
process at play is similar to the “wisdom
of crowds”: consumers become less
sceptical and more desirous of a brand
when they witness a constellation of wellknown
individuals promoting it.
Additionally, there are precedents
overseas. Even though Colin Kaepernick
was the focal point of Nike’s “Dream Crazy”
campaign, Serena Williams, LeBron James,
and other celebrities helped to make it
seem credible to a wide range of people.
Cadbury’s enduring Diwali advertisements
in India, which were recently revived with the
AI-powered “Shahrukh Khan-MyAd,” further
highlight how a star can simultaneously
serve as a brand ambassador for every
retailer when multiplied digitally. A Trojan
horse of mass engagement, the multistarrer
ad prioritizes entertainment over
commerce in a time when attention is the
most valuable resource. The Bollywood
adage “stars plus story equals box-office”
has evolved into “stars plus story equals
shopping cart.” And if preliminary figures
are any guide, the sequel to this story is just
getting started.

14 Friday, October 3, 2025 Read online www.iwk.co.nz
ENTERTAINMENT
Diljit Bags International Emmy
Nomination For ‘Chamkila’
AGENCIES
Actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh
on Thursday earned
a nomination at the
International Emmy Awards
2025 in the best performance by
an actor category for his role in
filmmaker Imtiaz Ali’s acclaimed
biopic “Amar Singh Chamkila”.
Ali’s directorial also
another
earned
nomination, securing
a spot in the TV
movie/miniseries
category.
The International
Academy of
Television Arts &
Sciences announced
the nominations in New
York, with the film emerging
as the lone Indian entry. The
Netflix movie featured Dosanjh
in the titular role of the Punjabi
singer who was shot dead in
1988 with his singer-wife Amarjot,
played by Parineeti Chopra.
In the best actor category,
Dosanjh will be competing
against David Mitchell for
“Ludwig” (United Kingdom), Oriol
Pla for “Yo, adicto” (Spain), and
Diego Vasquez for “One Hundred
Years of Solitude” (Colombia).
Whereas the film will vie for
Diljit
nominated for Best
Actor; Imtiaz Ali’s biopic
shortlisted in Best TV
Movie/Mini-Series
category
the TV movie/
mini-series
award alongside
“Herrhausen: The
Banker and the
Bomb” (Germany),
“Lost Boys & Fairies”
(United Kingdom) and “Vencer o
Morir” (Chile).
The winners will be declared
at the 53rd International Emmy
Awards gala, scheduled to be held
in New York City on November 24.
According to a press release
by International Academy, the
nominations feature 64 nominees
across 16 categories, spanning a
record 26 countries.
“As the International Emmys
continue to recognise the very
best in television, the creativity and
caliber of this year’s Nominees,
from a record 26 countries,
reflect the global strength of
our industry,” said International
Academy President & CEO Bruce
L Paisner.
Nominees come from Argentina,
Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile,
Colombia, Denmark, Finland,
France, Germany, Hong Kong,
India, Israel, Japan, Kenya, Mexico,
Norway, Qatar, Singapore, South
Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden,
Türkiye, United Arab Emirates and
the United Kingdom.
India’s past International Emmy
winners include the Netflix series
“Delhi Crime”, which won Best
Drama in 2020, and comedian Vir
Das, who bagged Best Comedy
trophy in 2021.
BRANDED CONTENT
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Read online www.iwk.co.nz
VIEW POINT
Friday, October 3, 2025 15
CARBON NEUTRAL CROPS
Farmers Are Becoming Climate Stewards
Vikrant Parmar
Editor, Writer & Media Mentor
X @vikrantparmar17
With the planet’s weather
acting crazy, farming
– often blamed for
climate change – is quietly
changing. Farmers worldwide
aren’t just growing food anymore;
they’re becoming carbon keepers,
soil protectors and sustainability
champions. Farming is turning
into a stage for saving the planet.
Carbon neutral crops means
using farming methods that cut
down or balance out greenhouse
gas emissions. The UN says
farming causes about 23% of
global emissions caused by
humans. But here’s the twist: soil
that releases carbon when it’s
in bad shape can actually trap
it when it’s taken care of, like a
giant underground sponge.
Take Sikkim in India, the first fully
organic state. They use integrated
farming and composting, which
has really cut down on the carbon
produced by their crops. Or look
at Indigo Ag in the US. This startup
pays farmers to use better
methods like cover cropping and
less tilling, which puts carbon back
in the soil. They’re making money
from storing carbon. These aren’t
just weird experiments; they’re a
sign of a new way of thinking about
farming, where photosynthesis is
valuable both for the environment
and financially.
Tech is also helping a lot.
Satellites, blockchain tracking
and AI soil checks help farmers
measure, prove, and sell the carbon
benefits of their crops. McKinsey
said in a report that the carbon
market for farming could reach $50
billion worldwide by 2030, if these
tools are expanded.
But the biggest change is in
attitude. By seeing every seed as a
chance to help the climate, farmers
are changing the story from one
of damage to one of repair. When
it comes to sustainability, carbon
neutral crops are more than just
a goal. They show how we might
be able to feed ourselves without
destroying the planet. So, the
plough isn’t just turning soil; it’s
changing the course of things.
(The writer can be reached at
vikrant.webs@gmail.com)
Dr Neeraj A Sharma
Honorary Consul General of the
Republic of Palau to India
X @Neerajpalau
The ability of an organization
to create content and
experiences at scale without losing
its unique identity has become
a strategic lodestar in today’s
volatile, fiercely competitive, and
attention-starved marketplace.
“Scaled on-brand production” is
more than just a catchphrase;
it’s the magic that makes a startup
act like a conglomerate and a
conglomerate act like a start-up.
According to a 2024 Gartner
report, 83% of consumers
now expect consistent brand
messaging across all channels,
but only 27% of organizations
say they successfully deliver it.
This highlights the imperative. For
those who are adept at producing
scalable, on-brand content,
whether for digital experiences,
packaging, or advertising, the gap
between aspiration and execution
Rise Of Scaled On-Brand Production
offers a huge opportunity.
Take Starbucks as an example.
It uses a strict, time-bound, yet
locally flexible production model
to coordinate the global roll-out of
its store formats, menu displays,
and social media content. The
outcome? From Seattle to Surat,
a brand that feels both intimate
and pervasive. Similar to this,
Nykaa in India uses cloud-based
creative platforms that allow
thousands of digital assets to be
created, reviewed, and published
quickly without falling victim
to the Frankenstein’s monster
of inconsistency, even though
the company operates across
a variety of categories and
geographical areas.
Here, technology is the unsung
hero. An industrial yet sophisticated
assembly line of branded content
is taking the place of the artisanal
one-off thanks to digital asset
management (DAM) systems,
AI-powered copy generation,
and programmatic design tools.
According to a 2023 McKinsey
study on marketing operations,
companies that implemented such
systems saw a 25% increase in
consumer recognition metrics and
a 40% improvement in campaign
time-to-market.
There is, however, a more subtly
philosophical dividend. In addition
to increasing volume, scaled onbrand
production institutionalizes
brand integrity, making every tweet,
package, and micro-experience a
pixel in a larger corporate mural. The
next chapter of commercial success
will be written by companies that
can blend speed and identity—scale
and soul—as India’s digital economy
surges toward a projected $1 trillion
by 2030.
Pic Credit: Fellipe Ditadi

16 Friday, October 3, 2025 Read online www.iwk.co.nz
SPICE ROUTE
Recipe
Little Village & Dussehra
IPSA MEHTA
Lamb Chops
by
Lamb chops marinated twice in a
fiery blend of spices
Lamb chops, invariably originated from the Pushtan cuisine. Which
is largely based on a range of meat dishes that include lamb,
chicken and seafood.
PREPARATION TIME: 15 minutes | MARINATION TIME: 2 hour
COOKING TIME: 10 minutes | SERVES: 4 | TASTES: Hot
8 LAMB CHOPS
FOR THE FIRST MARINADE:
• 1 tbsp fennel seeds
• 1 star anise
FOR THE SECOND MARINADE:
• 2 tbsp garlic paste
• 2 tbsp ginger paste
• ½ tsp salt
• 3 tbsp yoghurt
Ruby Dhillon
INGREDIENTS
• 2 tsp garam masala powder
• ½ tsp red chilli powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• ½ tsp dry fenugreek leaves
• ½ tsp dry red chillies,
crushed
• ½ tbsp mustard oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 lemon
Boxer By Grit, Storyteller By Soul,
Human Above All
Children in the happy village
of Sundarpur used to look
forward to October. They
enjoyed this period because their
favorite festival, Dussehra, was
approaching, the air smelled of
sweets, and bright kites were flying
in the sky.
Aarav was an inquisitive boy
who lived in Sundarpur. He always
sought to understand the “why”
behind everything and had large,
sparkling eyes. As the villagers
constructed a massive paper-andbamboo
statue of Ravana this year,
Aarav questioned his grandmother,
“Why do we burn this enormous
figure every year, Dadi?”
His grandmother grinned.
Because it reminds me of a very
old story, my dear. There once
was a valiant prince by the name
of Rama. The strong demon king
Ravana abducted his wife, Sita.
Rama battled valiantly to save her.
On this day, he vanquished Ravana.
Dussehra thus commemorates the
triumph of good over evil.
Aarav’s gaze expanded. “Oh!
Thus, we’re remembering a lesson
rather than merely burning a statue!
The entire village assembled in
the open field that evening. The
tall Ravana effigy was adorned
with glittering lights and vibrant
colors. Youngsters pretended to
be miniature Ramas while dancing
with toy bows and arrows. Meera,
Designed by Freepik
Aarav’s best friend, played the role
of Sita while sporting a golden
paper crown. Everyone clapped and
laughed.
The village priest lit the enormous
statue as the sun went down. Like a
gigantic firecracker, it exploded into
flames, crackling and popping. The
kids let out an excited gasp. “It’s like
watching evil vanish into smoke,”
Aarav muttered to Meera.
Aarav pondered the tale later as
they all shared jalebis and laddoos.
He understood that Dussehra was
more than just fireworks and candy.
Like Rama, it was also about having
courage, honesty, and kindness.
Aarav made the decision that day
to always choose goodness and to
try to combat the small “Ravanas”
that he harbored, such as lying, rage,
or sloth.
METHOD
FOR THE FIRST MARINATION:
Dry roast the fennel seeds and star
anise in a small fry pan over medium
flame.
Then grind them into a powder and
set aside.
Clean and wash the lamb chops,
then pat them dry with a kitchen
paper towel. Place them on a
chopping board and gently pound
with a meat mallet to tenderize the
meat. Transfer the chops to a large
bowl and rub fennel seed powder on
them, cover, and set aside.
FOR THE SECOND MARINATION:
Mix ginger and garlic pastes with
salt in a small bowl using a fork.
Apply the mixture evenly to the
chops and let them marinate for
at least 40 minutes. Meanwhile,
whisk yoghurt in a medium-sized
bowl along with garam masala
powder, red chilli powder, cumin
powder, coriander powder, dried
fenugreek leaves, crushed whole
dry red chillies, mustard oil, and
lemon juice until well combined
into a smooth paste. Add the
yoghurt paste to the lamb chops,
mix well, and allow them to
marinate for 1 hour, or preferably
overnight, for best results.
FOR THE BARBECUE: Heat the
barbecue plate and brush it lightly
with oil. Place the lamb chops on
the hot plate and cook for 6–8
minutes, turning and basting with
oil in between, until they are evenly
browned, tender, and cooked to your
desired doneness.
FOR THE OVEN: Preheat the oven to
200°C (fan 180°C) or preheat the
grill to medium-high. Place the lamb
chops on a wire rack set over a tray,
and cook for 15–20 minutes, turning
and basting with oil halfway through,
until golden brown and cooked
through. Transfer them onto a serving
platter and squeeze lemon on top.
Serve with mint chutney or can be
eaten with naan bread.
RUBY’S TIP
To check if lamb chops are cooked, cut near the bone. For medium-rare
(soft and springy, with a little pink inside and slightly pink juices), cook for
about 6–8 minutes on a hot barbecue or grill.
For medium to well-done (juices run clear and meat is no longer pink inside),
cook for about 8–10 minutes, turning and basting with oil as needed.
Meet Artists Who Destroy
Their Own Art!
Kartik Bedi
The concept of good and evil
figures in religion is nothing
new. In Christianity there is the
concept of God and Satan,
and in Greek mythology there
is the concept of Gods and
Titans, these concepts do
exist in Hindu mythology
across various forms, but
the most prominent one might
be Lord Ram and Demon king
Ravana.
The Indian epic talks about
Prince Rama defeating the
Demon king Ravana in order to
rescue his wife Sita, this story is
said to be first written by Valmiki
and then followed by countless
other variations across India and
beyond. Every year we celebrate
Dusshera in order to celebrate the
triumph of good over evil, and if
you ask any Indian, they will tell
you that Dusshera is not complete
without the burning of the effigies
of Ravana all across India.
The practice of making and
burning Ravana effigies is
relatively new, with the first
documented event of this going
back to just 1948, initiated by
refugees of Pakistan. This newly
made tradition has quickly made
its way into the culture and
symbolism that represents India.
Today, we will take a look into the
artists and the process of making
these beautiful effigies and then
burning them with no regrets.
Meet Shobharani Mohapatra,
also known as “Ravana mausi”
(roughly translated as “the Ravana
making aunt”). She has been
making and burning 15-20 Ravana
Effigies every year for the last 40
years of her life in Bhubaneswar.
Without her contributions,
Dusshera would feel incomplete
in Bhubaneshwar.
She says she started her craft
when a group of local boys asked
her to make a small Ravana effigy
for the neighbourhood which she
made for free with bamboo, paper
and glue. She says that since then,
it has redefined her purpose in life.
It is artists like these who keep
on making such painstakingly
beautiful pieces of art through
bamboo splinters and glue hands
just to burn them up every year
with a smile on their face. It takes
a lot of courage and effort to do
something like this and I think
they deserve the appreciation they
never get for their work.
Photo: By Dilip Poddar

Read online www.iwk.co.nz
SPIRITUAL CORNER
Friday, October 3, 2025 17
Designed by Freepik
In the
coming
week…
ARIES
(March 23–April 22)
TAURUS
(April 23–May 22)
GEMINI
(May 23–June 22)
Your week kicks off with a burst of energy. Midweek,
a surprise message or opportunity may
pop up — trust your instincts. By Sunday, rest
and self-care recharge you.
Lucky Day: Friday
Vibe: Playful and bold
Finances or practical plans take center stage
early this week. Mid-week is great for creative
work or home upgrades. A social weekend
helps you unwind.
Lucky Day: Tuesday
Vibe: Disciplined but tired
Communication flows easily — perfect for
networking or pitching ideas. By Thursday,
someone supportive may step in. Weekend
travel or short trips sparkle.
Lucky Day: Monday
Vibe: Sensitive but strong
Beyond Samadhi: Transformation
Of Mind – From Satyam To Ritam
RAVI K DHAR
For many seekers, Samadhi
is regarded as the ultimate
milestone of the spiritual path.
Once attained, it is believed, the restless
search ends and the mind rests in truth.
Yet, the reality is more demanding.
Samadhi is not the end of the journey
but its true beginning.
What happens in Samadhi is a
glimpse — a piercing of the veil of sensebound
consciousness, an opening to
the vastness of Truth-Consciousness.
This experience shifts awareness from
the periphery to the centre, from the
mundane to the spiritual. But when the
seeker returns to ordinary waking life,
the infinite clarity fades, leaving behind
only memory. And memory, however
luminous, is not the same as a living
presence.
The real work begins here: nurturing
the glimpse into a foundation that can
sustain transformation.
From Memory to Insight
Through steady practice, the memory of
Samadhi ripens into intuitive insights.
These are not thoughts in the ordinary
sense. They arrive suddenly, like rays of
light piercing the habitual patterns of
the mind. Problems that once seemed
insurmountable begin to untangle of their
own accord. Questions that haunted the
seeker acquire quiet resolution.
Earlier, thought arose mechanically
from the nervous system, shaped by
sensory data and external impressions.
Now, under the light of Truth-
Consciousness, thought becomes an
emanation of the inner sun of Truth
Consciousness.
The Maruts and Indra
The Vedic seers symbolized this stage
through the Maruts — the storm gods
who represent new, luminous thoughts
rushing into the seeker’s consciousness.
These are not random sparks but living
powers of truth, fresh currents reshaping
the inner sky.
Presiding over them is Indra, the Lord
of Luminous Intelligence. Indra does
not merely receive these intuitions; he
tests them. Each insight must pass
through the acid test of peace and
harmony before it can be accepted as
true. In this way, the mind is no longer
a battlefield of random impulses but a
realm gradually ordered by the light of
truth consciousness.
From Satyam to Ritam
This stage marks the passage from
Satyam to Ritam.
- Satyam is truth as a glimpse, a flash
of vision in Samadhi.
- Ritam is truth as order, structuring the
entire field of thought and perception.
This shift is crucial. A flash of truth
may inspire, but it does not yet transform.
When truth begins to fashion the very
structure of the mind, every thought
becomes an organic expression of the
higher consciousness. The nervous
mind, with its restlessness, gives way
to the luminous mind, harmonized and
anchored.
The First Milestone of
Transformation
This refashioning of thought is the first
great milestone after Samadhi. Without
it, the seeker remains dependent on
fleeting experiences. With it, a stable
inner order begins to take shape.
The importance of this stage cannot
be overstated. Only when the mind
is illumined by Ritam can the next
movements of spiritual transformation
unfold — the descent of force and, later,
the descent of delight. For Truth is never
static. It seeks to empower and to fulfill.
But the first step remains indispensable:
allowing the sun of Truth-Consciousness
to structure thought so that every
perception and reflection echoes a
deeper rhythm of peace and harmony.
This is the quiet beginning of Dharma, the
principle of order that eventually seeks
to reshape not only the seeker’s inner life
but also the life of society.
(The writer is a spiritual guide)
CANCER
(June 23–July 22)
LEO
(July 23–August 22)
VIRGO
(August 23–September 22)
LIBRA
(September 23–October 22)
SCORPIO
(October 23–November 22)
SAGITTARIUS
(November 23–December 22)
CAPRICORN
(December 23–January 22)
AQUARIUS
(January 23–February 22)
PISCES
(February 23–March 22)
Focus on money matters or a budget reset.
Mid-week brings emotional clarity in a
relationship. Sunday favors relaxing at home or
spiritual pursuits.
Lucky Day: Friday
Vibe: Playful and bold
You’re in the spotlight! This week favors
showcasing your talents. By Friday, an inspiring
collaboration shows up. A playful weekend
awaits.
Lucky Day: Wednesday
Vibe: Bold but mindful
Start the week by tying up loose ends.
Wednesday and Thursday favor health and
routines. By the weekend, romance or creativity
blooms.
Lucky Day: Friday
Vibe: Grounded growth
Group activities or teamwork shine early this
week. Mid-week, a friend might need your
advice. A warm, affectionate weekend awaits.
Lucky Day: Wednesday
Vibe: Intense
Career or public image gets a boost. Mid-week
is perfect for strategizing finances. Sunday is
best for rest or a quiet date night.
Lucky Day: Tuesday
Vibe: Curious and clever
Big-picture thinking rules — planning, travel,
or learning feels lucky. By Friday, someone
opens a door for you. Weekend: social sparkle
& spontaneity.
Lucky Day: Wednesday
Vibe: Bold but mindful
Introspection early this week helps you make a
key decision. Mid-week boosts your finances
or intimacy. A productive weekend gets things
done.
Lucky Day: Thursday
Vibe: Magnetic
Partnerships are highlighted — strengthen
bonds or set boundaries. Thursday brings a
new insight. Weekend favors friends and fun
outings.
Lucky Day: Monday
Vibe: Focused and helpful
Your schedule gets busy but fulfilling. Midweek
is perfect for health or wellness focus.
Sunday: creativity flows, making it a perfect day
for art or journaling.
Lucky Day: Saturday
Vibe: Balanced

Business
is tough.
We’re
here to
help.
Simon Bridges
CEO, Auckland Business Chamber
Join now
Making it easier for you to do business
Visit www.aucklandchamber.co.nz

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First Home Buyers, Investors,
Builders, Businesses...
Here to secure you the
best home loan in Auckland.
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Managing Adviser
Give me a call!
021 021 20555
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