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BY KALYANI GIRIHOUSTON: Quirky title aside,

several couples got more than they expected when they attended Da-ya’s Annual Seminar for 2011, She Nags, He Snores. Aside from being taught how to navigate differences and maximize strengths within significant relationships, they were guided in a one-on-one interactive workshop on how to communicate without conflict. The non-profit organization devoted to promoting healthy family relationships in the South Asian community invited a diverse group of panelists, each experts in their fields, to share their wisdom with attendees at the event held on September 17, 2011, at the Hilton Southwest Hotel. Universi-ty of Berkeley psychology lecturer Parijat Deshpande, attorney/dat-ing coach and columnist Jasbina Ahluwalia, chief psychologist at the Depelchin Children’s Center Dr. C. Patrick Brady, and marriage counselor Damian Duplechain, also offered insights on online dat-ing and identifying the keepers amongst them, inter-racial rela-tionships, and seeking and getting the approval of parents on one’s choices.

The program began with an up-date on Daya’s multifarious proj-ects by board member Dr. Shaila Patel; the organization will again this year, organize a community gathering One Voice Against Do-mestic Violence on Saturday, Oc-tober 15 on Hillcroft in observance of October being domestic vio-lence month. Life coach, founder of Indrani’s Light and Daya board member Indrani Goradia served as compère and moderator for the seminar.

Deshpande, who started the my-sahana.org website that exhorts South Asians to take charge of their emotional wellbeing, gave insights into effectively meeting Ms./Mr. Right at online sites, and talked of precautions that one has

to employ when negotiating rela-tionships over the web.

Ahluwalia, an attorney turned matchmaker, tackled the subject of inter-racial marriages.

“There has to be dialogue and openness between parents and their grown-up kids,” said Ahlu-walia. “Parents must respect their kids’ values and sit back and ask themselves why they object to the relationship. And kids must meet their parents halfway and listen to their concerns,” she added.

All panelists offered suggestions on parenting. To be a better prent partners should communicate with each other, set parameters, and pose a united front. Committed couples in powerful relationships generally do raise healthier, hap-pier children, they said.

When parents have problems among themselves, children pick up on the tension, said Dr. Brady, who has over 30 years of experi-ence in child/parent counseling.

“What do tell your kids when you’re having your own marital is-sues? Be honest with them as they are highly perceptive,” suggested Dr. Brady. “The truth will remove a lot of anxiety because they will feel like their world is shaking. It is not the child’s job to fix the par-

She Nags, He Snores!Daya Hosts Educational Seminar on Communicating without Conflict

ing strategies.“You learn to cope with it like

you learn to cope after two years of marriage when the reality of life sets in,” said Duplechain. “Change is inevitable.”

Duplechain and Deshpande led the informal and educational workshop on how to resolve con-flict effectively. Taking the roles of husband and wife, they demon-strated an imago dialogue process for couples called “mirroring”. The spouse that has something bother-ing her/him politely requests for a time to talk. Then speaking only with “I” statements, with con-necting language, and without ac-rimony or leveling blame, tells of the issue in a non-combative tone. The partner listens intently and re-sponds by asking “did I get you?”

and by caring and asking for more information until the conflict is re-solved and intimacy re-established. Couples in the audience enthusias-tically participated in the exercise and many found it to be an effec-tive tool in fostering healthy com-munication.

An upcoming event in the Daya calendar is the One Voice Against Domestic Violence community gathering to be held at the Hill-croft Shopping Center at 10.00am – 1.00pm on October 15, 2011. The community is invited to show their support of Daya’s stand of zero tolerance against domestic violence.

For more information about Daya, visit www.dayahouston.org or call 713- 981-7645 for help.

Daya board members and staff at the educational seminar.ents’ problems.”

A question raised by an attendee was about empty-nesters and cop-

BY KALYANI GIRIHOUSTON: On Friday, Sep-

tember 16, 2011, popular local DJ Arshad Virani, aka DJ AV, garnered a record number of over 400 late night revelers who took to the dance floor at Mo-ghul’s Lounge on Westheimer, and wore their heels skinny un-til the wee hours. The event was further enhanced to the level of spectacular by the advent of In-dia’s leading female disc spin-ner, DJ Rink. The celebrity DJ, on her second nationwide tour of the US, was invited to display her talent in this city by Virani who made her visit possible.

“DJ’s in Houston have great talent, no doubt about that, but every once in awhile it’s nice to have an artist from overseas come display their talent and give the people in Houston a new vibe and energy,” said Vi-

Bollywood Late Night Party Draws Record Crowd at Moghul’s

rani. “DJ Rink is India’s premier female DJ and is very well known for her Bollywood remixes, movie launch parties, and major club events where crowds average around 8,000 to 10,000 people,” he added. Virani is the founder/di-rector of DJ AV Entertainment.

In a city replete with events that often overlap sending patrons into an indecisive frenzy, why was there still the need to host a Bol-lywood party?

“Absolutely a need, as we have such a vibrant younger set in this city who only get to let loose and dance to their favorite mu-sic at weddings and other private events,” said Virani. “The parties I organize gives people in Houston a chance to have fun, socialize, net-work, and get out of their regular routine all in an upscale and classy environment,” he added emphati-cally. He enjoyed interacting with

DJ Rink who he has since be-come good friends with; she was very cooperative and humble, said Virani, who hopes to bring her back to Houston in 2012.

Mumbai-born Virani, 27, is a graduate in Business Admin-istration from the University of Houston. He has been en-tertaining at other events such as weddings and parties since 2008; six months ago, he started doing club events and has built up a consistent client base that ensures full houses at all his soi-rees. Social media such as the iconic and ubiquitous Facebook helps; but with a celebrity of DJ Rink’s ilk in town, Virani didn’t want to take any chances and ad-vertized extensively on the local desi radio programs. He is very grateful for the support friends and family have shown him. He

CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

SRK Dances with His “Chammak Challo”

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5September 23, 2011COMMUNITYthe 2012 President David Raj expanded on in a follow up speech. The initiative calls for two college students to mentor children in Math and Science in the inner-city Crock-ett Elementary School. Raj also plans to expand the IACF statewide and eventually make it national.

The speeches were interspersed by a short speech by Houston Mayor Annise Parker in which she reaffirmed that she too, was charity’s friend and a fiery speech by Con-gressman Al Green who also exhorted the guests to be generous. James Patterson, the Precinct 4 Ft. Bend County Commissioner and a former teacher, conveyed his passion for education in his speech prior to conduct-ing the live auction, which netted in excess of $25,000. Patterson urged support for the new Education Initiative and between those who spoke their pledges and the cards left on the tables, over $6,000 was collected. Meanwhile, the silent auction brought in over $6,000.

Entertainment for the evening came from playback singer Mahalakhshmi, who sang two Hindi songs and also later belted out some numbers during the dancing that con-cluded the gala. Kady Malloy, 21 a Hous-tonian who was a participant on American Idol in the 2008 season, wowed the audi-ence with her performance of two numbers. The evening started with a dance number by students of the Anjali School of Performing Arts.

But what marred the almost perfect event was a dismal job of stage lighting which rendered people into the shadows as they came to the podium and the video feed on two screens to ghostly images, along with a sound system that lacked enough power to reach the back of the room clearly. Also, the program stretched out as the event went on so that, when soup was served midway much before dinner, the audience took it as a cue to mingle and almost snuffed out the auctioneering in the cacophony of noise. Those up front managed to keep the auction going, but the backseaters were unable to follow the proceedings. Dinner, when it did arrive, came around 10 pm and was a tasty set plate by Dawat Caterers, of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes created for the event.

The IACF also honored their commitment to donate $6,000 from the proceeds from the Walkathon to the Japan Disaster Re-lief Fund, which was accepted onstage by Consul General Takahiko Watanabe, who also affirmed that he was charity’s friend. The finale before the dancing began was the drawing onstage of the SmartCar raffle. With five people onstage, IACF Executive Director Surender Talwar spun the cage around many times before and IACF former President Manmeet Likhari reached in and read the winner’s name. It turned out to be Suranga Cholia, who coincidentally is on the IACF Board this year.

But as the evening wore down along with the dancing, the ever ready Talwar couldn’t resist and sang his closing number: “Bohot shukria, baddi meherbani; meri zindagi mein, huzoor aap aaye …”, an appropo end-ing to an elegant night.

BY JAWAHAR MALHOTRAHOUSTON: Seldom has a fundraising

gala tugged at the heartstrings of the audi-ence so much that everyone stood to ap-plaud and honor the speaker. This was one of those occasions, after the audience had heard the poignant tale of Sandhya Rao, a young woman who has been blind and wheelchair bound since she was a young child and despite massive odds, with the help of her devoted family, received a law degree from Stanford University and now works as a staff attorney in the US District Court for the Southern District of Texas in Houston. She was recently appointed to the board of the Lighthouse of Houston.

Rao had related her story onstage at the 23rd Annual Gala of the Indo American Char-ity Foundation, this year billed as “Building Bridges to New Frontiers” held this past Friday, September 16 at the Intercontinental Hotel on the West Loop. She had read her speech in Braille with her fingertips and lat-er her parents, Dr. Potu N. Rao and his wife Rajeswari came onstage to add their appre-ciation of their daughter’s accomplishment, again to a standing ovation.

Emotions ran high at the gala, which is much anticipated since it is one of the few re-ally elegant ones held by the Indo American community during the year. And the IACF did not disappoint the 700 invited guests who came to help raise over $300,000 at the singular event which had the panache of a wedding reception sans all the hoopla that goes with it. The arrangements were im-maculate, from the appetizers in the lobby, to the skirted tables and chairs, to the floral centerpieces, a color scheme that was invit-ing and even down to the square souvenir brochure with a unique foldout front cover.

And to tie the event together, this year the IACF gala once again held a live auction of nine items that were donated by several businesses and individuals as well as a si-lent auction of 45 items that were arranged in the lobby under the circular staircase. In addition, for the first time, a Mercedes Benz SmartCar was raffled off, with this reporter and several other volunteers working the crowd during the social hour to sell $100 tickets. The red and black SmartCar stood by the entrance to the lobby for all to see. Off to one side was a place to get a portrait by the photographer, with finished, framed prints available as the guests left. Instead of the usual registration, guests had been called in advance with their table numbers and their meal choice was offered by volun-teers who met them in the lobby.

The event started on time and the guests strolled in to a slide presentation set to New Age music of the numerous advertisers and supporters of the gala. A four-foot tall statue of Ganesh stood on the stage bathed in a spotlight, to be auctioned off later. The em-cee for the evening, Sanjay Ram (assisted by Vani Rao, both IACF board directors) welcomed the guests and introduced the IACF President Anu Bala, who set the eve-ning up for the recurring theme of the eve-ning, I Am Charity’s Friend, a play on the organization’s acronym. Bala touched on the IACF’s new education initiative, which

COMMUNITY

At Gala, IACF Gathers Many Friends and Donations

From top left and down: IACF President Anu Bala, spoke about the organization’s activities over the year and ended with a quote from Mahatma Gandhi and hailed the Foundation’s new tag line “I am Charity’s Friend”; Sanjay Ram, Board Director, was the emcee for the evening; Mayor Annise Parker, who also was the guest of honor at last year’s gala, reaffi rmed that she too, was charity’s friend; Congressman Al Green in his customary passionate way urged the guests to be generous and to become charity’s friends; James Patterson, the Precinct 4 Ft. Bend County Commissioner and former coach and teacher was auctioneer for the evening; incoming IACF President David Raj outlined the plans for IACF’s new Education Initiative for which funds were pledged; Japanese Consul General Takahiko Watanabe, accepted a $6,000 check for the Japan Disaster Relief Fund.

For a collage of pictures from the IACF Gala, see pages 14 & 15


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BY KALYANI GIRIHOUSTON: As their guru per-

cussion maestro Pandit Shanthilal Shah beamed proudly and gestic-ulated encouragement from a van-tage seat, groups of his disciples tapped and drummed their way into the hearts of an appreciative audience of parents and art lov-ers at the Jones Hall, University of St. Thomas, on a recent driz-zly Saturday evening. The event Laya-Taal-Saadhna-2011, held under the auspices of the Swara-layam Arts Forum on September 17, 2011, was the 5th annual cel-ebratory occasion that proved yet again that India’s glorious cultural heritage still finds echo in the younger generations in far-away lands only through nurturing van-guards in the crucial ilk of Pandit Shah.

Nearly 60 artistes, some at just 6 years of age through to young adults, presented a sterling tabla recital replete with varying taals, or beats, tempos, garlands of spo-ken notations, and mathematically elaborate and vibrant fingerwork patterns. The program included a rousing and professionally adept interlude by rising stars Anuraag Shah and Aditya Srivatsan whose flying fingers found tonal excel-lence that held riveted the gather-ing. Set against a backdrop of har-monium rendered by Mahendra Gohil and Sameer Kotasthane, the

evening’s performance reached a pinnacle with a spirited grand finale piece by senior students, along with Pandit Shah and mel-lifluous vocals by his wife Aparna Shah, a Hindustani classical sing-er. Hallmarks of the event were the discipline exhibited by all stu-dents, diligence to their art, and the respect they showed to their teacher, who in turn championed them on with affection.

Participating in the program were Mihir Kalvakaalva, Het Pa-tel, Arjun Bhatt, Anisha Varati, Sahitkumar Gullapalli, Bhagwat Patel, Abhinav Kumar, Amar

Sehgal, Mihir Sekhar, Mhyank Sekhar, Nishant Shah, Nishal Shah, Samarth Dave, Nikhil Bathini, Suraj Pandit, Shrey De-rasari, Dhruvit Jain, Soham Dhar, Ashmal Lalani, Rohan Valleru, Rahul Popat, Dhruva Vishwa-nath, Rohan Pendse, Tejas Dave, Nishant Aranke, Ribhu Nag, Vi-jayKrishna Patel, Arjun Murali-daran, Arun Rao, Anish Sankha-varam, Roshan Sreedhar, Suhas Narendrula, Romil Patel, Anand Pradhan, Rishabh Parekh, Pranav Rao, Akshay Bharadwaj, Shub-hankar Das, Samir Nileshwar, Deepika Pangarkar, Manan Meh-

Laya-Taal Saadhna 2011 MemorableTalking Tablas enchant capacity audience at St. Thomas University’s Jones Hall

ta, Gaurav Dhume, Johann Pally, Yash Kakodkar, Viraj Parikh, Tejas Kolhatkar, Sanath Aithala, Arun Sabapathy, Rahul Gupta, Sumedh Saurabh, Chirag Sakhu-ja, Jason Zinn, Pavit Patel, Nakul Shah, Nikhil Balasubramanyam, Anuraag Shah, and Aditya Srivat-san.

Hailing from Banaras, India, Pandit Shah took his initial train-ing in tabla from Pandit Mahadev Prasad Mishra of the Banaras Gharana, and later came under tu-telage of Pandit Suresh Talwalkar. A graded artiste with All India Ra-dio, he is a multiple award-winning

artiste who has traveled the globe providing percussion accompani-ment to renowned maestros such as Sangeet Martand Pandit Jasraj, Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, and Ustad Sujaat Khan to name a few. Previously on the faculty of music at the Anjali Center for Perform-ing Arts, Pandit Shah now teaches tabla at the Swaralayam Arts Fo-rum, a premier educational and cultural institute propagating the classical arts of India here in this city.

For more information visit www.swaralayam.org.


7 September 23, 2011 7September 23, 2011

IamNEWS 30!

COMMUNITY

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

BY JAWAHAR MALHOTRAHOUSTON: The parking lot of India

House was filled to capacity last Saturday, September 17 evening and many cars were overflowing onto the street, much like when some other huge programs or celebrity guest comes to the community center. But, although this was not billed as a major event for the Indian community, it had all the hall-marks of one, not counting the parking jam.

The lobby was decorated with goblets stuffed with shiny glass stems set on each side of a central aisle. Inside, both the main hall and the rotunda were packed with tables and chairs skirted with gold covers tied with a back knot against red tablecloths with tall flower centerpieces. The small stage in the main hall was raised another two feet and festooned with twisted half-slung cream-colored fabric over white skirting. The back-drop was different colored chiffon streamers alternating with runs of sparkling yellow.

This was vintage Asam Hasan, for those familiar with his eye to style, color and de-tail and he was very much present, helping

his cousin, Hashmet Jaffery who catered the sumptuous Mughlai food from his soon-to-open banquet facility, Crystal near Hillcroft and Bellaire. Hasan is known for opening Ashiana restaurant and later Classic Tan-door (now Masala Wok) and now operates Bella, a banquet hall downtown on Milam and Congress.

Apart from the setting, the entire facility was packed with over 300 Indians of all creeds, but mostly Muslims from the Da-woodi Bohra community, Aligarh Alumni Association of Texas, Quami Ekta Commit-tee, Hyderabad Cultural Association, Aga Khanis and Hindus, with Raj Bhalla, the India Culture Center President, and Jasbir Singh as the lone turbaned Sikhs in the gath-ering. The occasion was the second annual Eid Celebration at India House, under the auspices of the ICC, and many of its Board were present. It was a repeat of the same celebration held last year but this year it was much more resplendent and in keeping with the festive nature of the event.

Flowing embroidered saris mingled eas-ily among the sequined and colorful salwar kameezes of the Muslim ladies, while Muslim men in embroidered sherwanis and loose pajamas, some with Turkoman topis (hats) or Jinnah caps mixed with Hindus dressed in equal-ly elegant kurtas and

Qawwali Mehfil Brings the Indian Community

Together for Eid Celebration

Below: Indian Consul General Sanjiv Arora, who has en-couraged this joint Eid celebration, spoke a few words about the great diversity of India and spoke a short verse in Urdu about friendship. ICC President Raj Bhalla looks one.

Left: Asam Hasan (left) arranged the decorations and catering of the event with his cousin Hashmet Jaffery (right), with Lutfi Hassan (Asam’s brother) a long-time businessman who brought former Mayor Lee Brown to the event.


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chuddidar pajamas. The blend of styles, col-ors and languages – Urdu, Hindi, Gujurati, Hindustani – was reassuringly reminiscent of India where Muslims make up 13% of the population.

The evening began with a Muslim prayer, followed by a welcome by Bhalla and a few words on the significance of Eid by Liakat Syed and comments on the importance of religious pluralism by Faiyaaz Khan, who heads the QEC. There were presentations by the Aga Khan Council, the Bohra Com-munity and the AAAT. It was the collective financial contributions of these groups, the ICC and the Hassan brothers who made the evening possible.

Lutfi Hassan, a long-time businessman who made his mark in Houston before shifting operations to Dubai only to return last year spoke briefly and presented for-mer Houston Mayor Lee Brown, who paid best wishes for Eid. Congressman Al Green even made a surprise visit and lauded India for its cultural and religious diversity and Sugar Land Councilman Tom Abraham was also in attendance. ICC Secretary, Jasmeeta Singh closed out the first part of the pro-gram before it broke for namaz maghrib in a separate room for those who chose to pray, and a buffet dinner for those who by now had become quite hungry.

The pièce de résistance of the evening was the qawwalis that followed dinner, sung by the Riyaaz Qawwali Group which features its lead singer Sonny Mehta who has received training in classical Hindustani music from Pandit Suman Ghosh and other popular teachers in Houston. Sonny is also an active member of the Hindu Students As-sociation, a group that is seeking to expand its base across the US. The eight members of Riyaaz Qawwali are diverse in origin – India, Bangladesh and the US – and reli-gions (Hindu, Muslim, Atheist) met while studying in Austin and formed as a group in 2006. Though they have day jobs, the group has performed in New York, Florida, Dallas and Houston but keeps Austin, known for its intense music scene, as its base.

The Indian Consul General Sanjiv Arora, who has encouraged this joint Eid celebra-tion, spoke a few words about the great di-versity of India and spoke a short verse in Urdu about friendship. Sheik Shabbir and Abeezar Tayebji presented an Indian Mus-lim Award to Arora and the space before the stage was cleared of tables and chairs to make an authentic floor setting with sheets and back pillows to listen to qawwalis by.

And what qawwalis they were! The little

known group dazzled the audience with its first number, with the help of a harmonium, tabla, dhol, violin and hands clapping. Sonny showed his mastery of cascading notes and long deliver-ies and the rest of the group jumped in with supporting responses, of-ten rising to a crescendo of voices all coming to-gether, arms waving and hands thumping thighs, true to the manner of real qawwals in the Moth-erland. The group sang about ten long pieces over a 150-minute time frame and transported those who stayed the length into a renewed apprecia-tion of this 700-year old musical tradition.

Qawwali for Eid Celebration at India House

Riyaaz Qawwali Group featuring lead singer Sonny Mehta (at harmonium) sang qawwalis for nearly three hours for the audience, some who sat on the fl oor, desi style after the tables and chairs were cleared out. Photos: Jawahar Malhotra

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7


September 23, 201110

ALEXANDER P. MATHEWS, CPA

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September 23, 201110 September 23, 2011 September 23, 2011 COMMUNITY

BY KALYANI GIRIHOUSTON: A balmy breeze,

a perfect location with convivial atmosphere, diverse music and Bollywood dances, delicious hors d’oeuvres and wine, and a vibrant-ly eclectic gathering, it was a fun, happening, opening night for the 3rd Annual Indian Film Festival Houston (IFFH). Held at the heart of the chic Town and Country City Center on September 20, 2011, the open-air event drew about 100 gatherees who met and mingled, and later walked over to view the opening night film, I Am Kalam, at the Studio Movie Grill a block away. The film, directed by Nila Madhab Panda, debuted at the Cannes Film Festival in 2010 and has amassed a global cult follow-ing with its themes of poverty, so-cietal inequality, and the celebra-tion of triumph beyond adversity. The festival runs from September 20th – 24th with screenings of jury-selected movies, film shorts, and documentaries, followed by ques-tion/answer opportunities with the film directors. The festival culmi-nates with a constellation-worthy celebrity cocktail reception and awards night at the Hotel Sorella on Saturday, September 24.

Actors Shabana Azmi and Gulshan Grover are expected to attend, confided IFFH’s intrepid Director Sutapa Ghosh. Ghosh, an independent filmmaker with a passion for showcasing regional Indian movies is dedicated to bringing the best that India has to offer, particularly those off of the commercial and clichéd Bol-lywood radar to this city’s diverse audiences. This year’s line up of feature films include A Decent Arrangement starring Shabana Azmi and directed by Sarovar Banka, Delhi in a Day, directed

3rd Annual Indian Film Festival Houston Opens with Celebratory Bash at T&C

by Prashant Nair, and the comedy drama Desperate Endeavors by Salim Khassa. Fatakra, a short film by Houston-based Sonam Mehta, Khara Karodpati, by Piy-ush Thakur, and The Eclipse of Taregna by Rakesh Chaudhary are also hitting the big screen this

Top: Vijay and Ashok Dhingra with Sutapa Ghosh Above:Ellen Goldberg, Nancy Dean and Carol Brooks

Photos: Krishna Giri

week. It’s Cricket, No? by Sudhir Aggarwal and In Search of God by Rupam Sarmah, are the documen-taries that will show at IFFH.

For a full schedule of the IFFH screenings and other events, visit www.iffhinc.org.

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11September 23, 2011COMMUNITYAnuraag Madabushi:

Local Macy’s Spelling Bee ChampionHOUSTON (Stylemagazine) : Anuraag Mada-

bushi, a 5th grader at T. H. Rogers Elementary School in Houston spelled his way through more than 20 rounds of words to become the Local Champion of the Macy’s Spelling Bee. The win-ning word was “pejorative.” Anuraag will now go on to compete in the finals at Macy’s Herald Square in New York City on September 24th.

In total, 50 students ages 8-11 participated in the Spelling Bee at Macy’s at Memorial City on Sat-urday, September 10, 2011.

Caption for attached photo: Local winner, Anuraag Madabushi, 10, at Macy’s Memorial City.

Macy’s held its 6th Annual Spelling Bee com-petition in stores across the country in partnership with Reading is Fundamental®. Each regional Spelling Bee champ will take home great prizes including a year of online learning from Kaplan Tutoring and a $150 online gift card from Scho-lastic. The winner of the Final Bee in NYC will re-ceive a magical California vacation for a family of four including round trip air travel, hotel accom-modations and more, all provided by Radio Dis-ney®! The Grand Prize winner will also receive a $5,000 Kaplan Tutoring Scholarship and a $500 Scholastic online gift card.

For more details and a complete listing of partic-ipating Macy’s locations, visit www.macys.com/spellingbe.

Local winner, Anuraag Madabushi, 10, at Macy’s Memorial City

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September 23, 201112 September 23, 201112 September 23, 2011 September 23, 2011 COMMUNITY

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Indo American News Fall 2011 ad copy.indd 1 7/19/11 9:02 AM

BY ARUSHI GARGHOUSTON: In the beginning,

it all started as simple girlie talk between two friends hailing from Delhi’s East of Kailash. Or so did it seem. But, the passion and seri-ousness of their mutual interests never did fade with time.

Fourteen years later and half way across the globe, the two young la-dies of yesteryear made their home here in Houston, became wives, and then mothers. Their childhood aspirations did mature with age.

Please allow me to introduce So-nia Sabbarwal, Jasnit ‘Jas’ Vohra and their dream come true, Pari-naz - a boutique catering wardrobe essentials to Indian and Pakistani ladies as well as to the tastes of American buyers.

“We wanted a line that deals with fresh designs and top quality material. We do not intend to com-promise on fabric or detail,” re-marks Sonia. “Hence, we took our time to get everything in place,” she adds in an indirect explanation to the years gone bye.

On a recent visit to Parinaz, I was taken by the traditional yet urban feel of the boutique. An antique wooden cupboard displaying nov-elties and accessories in a corner tried to distract my attention from the array of exquisite saris, suits, salwars in every hue and color of the rainbow.

“Wow, this is upscale,” I thought. “But why this location?”

“There was need for a good bou-tique in the northwest (Houston),” says Sonia, as if reading my mind. “We will expand to other locations

soon,” she adds with a twinkle in her eye.

Parinaz offers a vast collection of ready-to-wear traditional and Indo-Western garments crafted and designed exclusively for them in New Delhi. A team of expert designers and seamstresses are guided by the owner duo in the color, design, detailing and other aspects of the finished goods that are attractive to both NRI and American customers.

Complementing the great range of garments is a sparkling collec-tion of designer jewelry such as bangles, maang tikkas, ear rings, chokers and even jewelry sets. One cannot miss the wide range of Punjabi jotis, sandals and Kho-lapuri chappals that are always fashionable and chic. They top all this off with a wide variety of tra-ditional Pothli bags, clutches and purses.

Parinaz displayed their collec-tion at the BIBI Magazine fashion show recently and will also feature at the upcoming SBR Magazine fashion event in October.

Parinaz is a one-stop shop for wedding and event outfitting. They take design orders for pre-bridal and bridal collections. They also help in the creation of exclu-sive garments to specific tastes. Prices range from 150$ to the 500$. Accessories start at $39 and go up to $130.

For further information, contact Sonia or Jasnit : 281-970-5400.

Parinaz is located at 10704- A FM 1960 Rd W Houston, TX 77070.

Parinaz Fashion - Paving a Path for Pride and Personality


13 September 23, 201113September 23, 2011


September 23, 201114 September 23, 201114 September 23, 2011 September 23, 2011

Building Bridges to New FrontiersIndo-American Charity Foundation 23rd Annual Gala

Friday, September 16, 2011Intercontinental Hotel, Houston, Texas



Building Bridges to New FrontiersIndo-American Charity Foundation 23rd Annual Gala

Friday, September 16, 2011Intercontinental Hotel, Houston, Texas

For complete see page 5

For complete For complete see page 5see page 5


September 23, 201116 September 23, 201116 September 23, 2011 September 23, 2011 HEALTH COMMUNITYBY RACHEL NEYCHERILRAMYA KROTHAPALLY &

NIK NIKAM, M.D.Three years ago Mr. Khatani came to the

hospital with a severe chest pain. He had an emergency cardiac catheterization and coronary artery bypass surgery. His hos-pital bill was well over $100,000. He had to mortgage his house to pay his hospital bills. He could not get health insurance be-cause of his pre-existing condition. At least, not until now. Thanks to the United States Health and Human services and the State of Texas sponsored, “Pre-existing Condition Insurance Plan, (PCIP)” today, Khatani has health insurance despite having heart dis-ease, diabetes, and hypertension.

Khatani is not alone. There are 47 million people without health insurance. Eighty percent of them have at least one family member who has a stable job. In the past, many of them could not get insurance, even if they could afford the premium, because of pre-existing medical conditions. However, today, with the government sponsored PCIP insurance, they have hope.

PCIP: The Pre-Existing Condition Insur-ance Plan or PCIP was introduced last year by United States Health and Human services for the multitude of people who have been denied health coverage due to a medical condition. It provides many health benefits, including treatment for pre-existing condi-tions, and doesn’t charge extra because of a medical condition or decide eligibility on income.

The U.S. Department of Health and Hu-man Services, with the help of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Finance Center, runs PCIP Plan in 23 states and the District of Columbia. The federal government contracts with a national insur-ance plan to administer benefits in those

states. In the other 27 states, there are state-based programs.

Premiums: The premiums are very rea-sonable. Here are some quotes for Texas residents based on the type of plan. For example, an individual with a pre-existing condition at age 60 would have a premium ranging from $426 to $572 per month, which is considerably less than the premiums they would be charged if they even managed to get coverage from any other insurance pro-gram.

AGE STD-PL EXT-PL HSA-PL19-34 $199 $268 $207 35-44 $239 $323 $248 45-54 $306 $412 $318 55-65 $426 $572 $442 PCIP offers three different programs:

Standard Plan, Extended Plan, and Health Savings Account Plan. The maximum out-of-pocket expense for services in a twelve month period is $5,950 if you are in net-work and $7,000 if you get out-of-network services. The deductibles vary by plan and on whether the care is in-network or out-of network. For more information on co-pay, deductibles, and maximum costs, please visit www.pcip.gov.

Deductible STD-PL EXT-PL HSA-PLIn- Network $2000 $1000 $2500Out- Network $3000 $1500 $3000

Coverage: PCIP covers a wide variety of health benefits, which include primary and specialty care, prescription drugs, hospital care, and most importantly, any treatment for pre-existing conditions.

All PCIP plans provide preventive care, paid at 100% without a deductible, when you see an in-network doctor. Full coverage also includes annual physicals, flu shots, routine

mammograms, cancer screenings, mater-nity, durable medical equipment, skilled nursing services ($700/day) and Hospice (Max $15,000), mental illness, emergency services,¬¬ and outpoint diagnostic studies.

For any additional care, you will need to pay a deductible before PCIP can pay for your health care and prescriptions. After paying the deductible, you will need to pay 20% of medical costs in-network. To top it off, there is no lifetime maximum on the amount of money the plan can pay for your health care.

Eligibility: To be eligible for this pro-gram, you must meet certain requirements:

• You must be an American citizen or re-side in America legally.

• You must have been without health cov-erage for at least the last 6 months. This includes any insurance that doesn’t cover your medical condition.

• You must have a pre-existing condition or a health problem that has been denied health coverage.

For more information on eligibility, refer to the PCIP contact information provided.

How to Apply: The application is simple and hassle-free. There are three options of applying: online, on the phone, or by mail.

To apply online, go to the website www.pcip.gov and click on “APPLY NOW” near the bottom of the home page. It will provide more information through the rest of the process.

To apply through the phone, there is a phone number available on the website www.pcip.gov that will allow you to reach the PCIP facility. The number is also avail-able below in the Contact Information.

To apply by mail, go to the website www.pcip.gov and click on the tab “HOW TO APPLY.” The instructions are available. It requires printing and filling out an Applica-tion, in English or Spanish.

An additional document is required that must be copied and included in each appli-cation process to verify your medical con-dition and denial of health coverage. It can be a letter from your doctor, physician assis-tant, or nurse practitioner, dated within the past 12 months, that verifies your medical condition, illness, or disability.

• A denial letter from an insurance compa-ny for individual insurance (disregard health insurance from your company) within the past 12 months

• A letter within the past 12 months from your insurance agent or broker licensed in your state that you have been denied health coverage due to medical conditions

• An offer from an insurance company li-censed in your state that you have denied in the past 12 months which has a rider saying that it shall not cover your medical condi-tion if you should accept.

Additional information about enrolling into the PCIP program is available on www.pcip.gov or call the numbers 1-866-717-5826: (TTY: 1-866-561-1604). Their regu-lar operational hours are Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to11 p.m., Eastern.

This community awareness project was organized by Rachel Neycheril and Ramya Krothapally, of High Tower High School--Medical Academy and sponsored by Sugar Land Heart Center, TX

We would like to visit your business, civ-ic, social, or religious gathering and make a 5-minute presentation. If we can help one person with a pre-existing medical condi-tion, we would have accomplished our mis-sion of making a giant leap in that person’s life.

Please contact Rachel Neycheril at (832)-338-6040 or Ramya Krothapally at (281)-902-6343 or Dr. Nim Nikam at [email protected] for more informa-tion or for addressing your group.

Health Insurance for People with Pre-existing Condition

AGLA Launches Innovative Life Insurance ProductIndexed Universal Life now part of the Quality of Life…Insurance® Product Suite

NASHVILLE, TN: American General Life and Accident Insurance Company (AGLA), announces an innovative addition to its highly differentiated Quality of Life…Insurance® suite of products. AGLA-choice® Index Plus is permanent universal life insurance that provides protection for a customer’s entire lifetime. Like all life in-surance, it’s designed to provide for loved ones in the event of a premature death. Yet AGLAchoice® Index Plus also offers cus-tomers the opportunity to grow policy val-ues by using index-linked strategies that are based in part on the movement of a major stock market index.

Many consumers today seek quality long-term protection, competitive interest rates and safety of principal. Indexed universal life can help accomplish all three goals. AGLAchoice® Index Plus customers can have valuable life insurance protection, a choice of interest-crediting strategies, and the opportunity to grow policy values with-out downside risk.

AGLAchoice® Index Plus can use any combination of three primary accounts for interest crediting. Each account has a mini-mum guaranteed interest crediting rate and the opportunity to earn additional interest.

“Together we are changing the way Amer-icans think about, purchase and use life in-surance, and I’m absolutely thrilled to be

able to offer this product to middle income consumers and Main Street small business owners,” says Jim Mallon, AGLA’s Presi-dent and CEO. “People want the opportu-nity for their money to grow, but they also want safe and secure protection. That’s the great thing about AGLAchoice® Index

Plus: it gives you downside protection with guaranteed interest rates. So while you take advantage of interest crediting based in part on market growth, you can’t suffer losses solely because of its decline.” Says Mallon, “Those who purchase AGLAchoice® Index Plus coverage can rest assured, knowing that their insurance provides value and protec-tion without exposure to the markets.”

Mallon points out that even though other companies offer some version of Indexed Universal Life, what really makes AGLA’s

product stand out is the fact that it’s life in-surance you don’t have to die to use.

“Because AGLAchoice® Index Plus is part of the Quality of Life…Insurance® suite of products, it can provide our cus-tomers with living benefits. If an insured person suffers a covered critical, chronic or

terminal illness or condition, such as a ma-jor heart attack, invasive cancer or a stroke, Quality of Life…Insurance® allows own-ers to accelerate their life insurance benefits before their death to pay for critical health care needs or to meet other financial needs or obligations. AGLAchoice® Index Plus is the latest modern and affordable solution in the Quality of Life…Insurance® product suite and we are delighted to be able to offer it to existing and new customers.”

For more information about Quality of

Life…Insurance®, visit www.agla.com/qol. For more information about AGLAchoice® Index Plus, visit AGLA’s YouTube channel at http://bit.ly/aglaiul.

American General Life and Accident In-surance Company (AGLA), www.agla.com, provides a wide variety of affordable and innovative life insurance, annuity, ac-cident and supplemental health insurance products to millions of Americans. AGLA is known for its highly differentiated Quality of Life…Insurance® product suite, person-al customer service and a tradition of excel-lence spanning more than a century.

The underwriting risks, financial and con-tractual obligations and support functions associated with products issued by Ameri-can General Life and Accident Insurance Company (AGLA) are its responsibility. AGLA does not solicit business in the states of New York and Wyoming.

The referenced policy contains limitations and ex-clusions. See the policy for details. Policy issued by: American General Life and Accident Insurance Com-pany For Policy Forms AGLA 05AHO, AGLA 08174, AGLA 08ALO, AGLA 08TRM, AGLA 09TRM, ICC11 AGLA 11IUL, AGLA 11IUL, and Riders AGLA 07CHP, AGLA 05AHA REV0308, AGLA 05AHC, AGLA 05AHB, AGLA 05AHG, AGLA 05AHP, AGLA 05AD2, AGLA 08MGP, AGLA EMD-DB, AGLA 04001, AGLA 05AD2, AGLA 20140-1, AGLA PWA- NL, ICC11 AGLA ICIAR, ICC11 AGLA PRI-IAR, AGLA ICIIAR, AGLA PRIIAR, ICC10 AGLA ABR, AGLA ABR and state variations.



Udavum Karangal Presents Harmony Hunlimited

Udavum karangal of USA & Madras Pavilion invite you to the 10th annual event to benefi t Udavum Karangal featuring “Harmony Hunlim-ited” on Friday October 14 at 7.30pm at the Old Stafford Civic Center . This promises to be a enchanting evening of heartwarming lilting tunes from Indian movies, Colonial cousins,fusion, folk & ghazals by amazing young performers, fi nalists from the popular TV show Hariyudan Naan which ran for over a year with Music legend Hariharan.

Udavum karangal (meaning helping hands) , a full service , non profi t, non governmental organization par excellence has completely dedicated its resources to the betterment of lives of the homeless, destitute & aban-doned children & adults in Tamilnadu, India.

All donations are tax deductible. For details contact Padmini at 713- 829-2040, Rajan at 832-364-9894 or Alpa at 832-484-2270

Tickets $25,$50,$100 & above (Dinner included)$15 (balcony seating , dinner NOT included)For more information, Visit www.udavumkarangal.org or www.my-

helpinghands.org

Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple Gears up for Grand Deepavali Celebrations

HH Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji

Shunya Presents The Prophet and the PoetA play by Vijay PadakiPoet. The play deftly interweaves ex-cerpts of letter exchanges and articles of Gandhi and Tagore over a twenty-fi ve year period. The intellectual debates of these two men comes to life through the voices of two students studying their life and work. Gandhi and Tagore did not always agree

on the course India should take

t o -

ward inde-pendence, however their shared quest for truth and their deep respect for one another laid the groundwork for the birth of a nation.

The play is making its regional premiere. It was developed at the Academy of Theatre Arts, a pro-gramme division of Bangalore Little Theatre Foundation and is being pro-duced by arrangement with Banga-lore Little Theatre Foundation. The

play premiered by invitation at Gandhi’s Sabarmati Ashram on January 30, 2009, subsequently at Visva Bharati University at Santini-ketan, then at the courtyard stage of Tagore’s home in Jora Sanko, now a heritage site.

Shunya Theatre, Houston’s own South Asian theatre troupe contin-ues yet again to bring a new view-point to Houston theatre. This year has already included productions of

Anuvab Pal’s raucous comedy 1-888-DI-AL-INDIA, and a reading and aca-

demic lecture on Shishir Kurup’s dra-matic and thoughtful Merchant on Venice. The Prophet and the Poet will bring Shu-nya’s 2011 season to

a close with a work that dramatizes the lives

of two remarkable men living through remarkable times.

The Poet and the Prophet will run September 30 – October 9, on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 3 pm at Barnevelder Movement Arts, 2201 Preston Street, Houston, TX 77003-2222. Information is available at www.ShunyaTheatre.org. Tickets are on sale now at Tickets2Events.com.

“They had a difference of temper-ament so wide that it was extremely diffi cult to arrive at a common intel-lectual understanding, though the moral ties of friendship remained entirely unbroken.” -- Charlie An-drews, on the relationship of Rabin-dranath Tagore and Mahatma Gan-dhi, The Prophet and the Poet

Two monu-mental fi gures of world his-tory are being celebrated tin the upcoming weeks. This year marks the 150th birth anni-versary of Nobel Laureate, poet and polymath Rabindranath Tagore, and October 2nd marks the 142nd birth anniversary of Mahat-ma Gandhi. Both of these fi gures continue to make their mark on the world -- Houston itself has societies dedicated to both (The Mahatma Gandhi Library and The Tagore Society of Houston) who aim to keep alive the ideals and lessons of these two great fi gures.

The anniversary celebrations continue this month with Shunya Theatre’s presentation of Vijay Padaki’s play The Prophet and the

HOUSTON: Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple is gearing up for Grand Deepavali Celebrations. His Holi-ness Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji will be in Houston for this Momentous 6-day Event from October 26th to October 31st, 2011.

There are a few different historical reasons for the celebration of Deep-avali. Perhaps the most popular one is the return of Sri Rama to Ayod-hya for His Coronation Ceremony after annihilating Ravana. The en-tire city of Ayodhya celebrated Sri Ram Parivaar’s coming home with fi reworks to signify the removal of darkness and return of light in their lives.

This Deepavali we are celebrating Sri Rama Seva, an event focused on Lord Sri Rama. The event will include Sri Sita Rama Kalyanam, a 5-day Sri Rama Yajna, and Sahasra Kalasa Abhishekam all under the direct guidance of Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji.

Saamoohika Dhanalakshmi Puja: Wednesday, October 26

It is considered very auspicious to perform Dhanalakshmi Puja on Amavasya day of Deepavali. Dha-nalakshmi Puja is done to pray for prosperity and abundance. We will be conducting Saamoohika (Group) Dhanalakshmi Puja on Deepavali Day. Devotees taking part in the Puja will receive a specially designed coin engraved with Sri Lakshmi ji as well as all necessary puja items. Partici-

pants will perform the puja under the direct guidance of Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji.

Acharya Thirunakshatram: Thursday, October 27

On October 27th and 31st , we will celebrate the birthdays of Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji and Manavalama-muni, respectively. We celebrate birthdays of great people for inspira-tion from their lives and preaching. Guru means teacher. “Gu” means darkness and “Ru” means to remove. Guru is the one who can remove the darkness of ignorance from our hearts and light the lamp of knowledge and devotion. We are very fortunate to

be able to celebrate our Acharya Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji when He is here in Houston this Deepavali. Swamiji says “Serve Ve-das and Save Vedas”. For this reason, on this oc-casion Swamiji honors Brahmasri Parameswara Deekshitar, an expert in the four Vedas who has trained many Vedic schol-ars in India. There will be a cultural program on this day as well.

Sri Rama Kratuvu (Yajna): Thursday-Monday, October 27-31

Kratuvu or Yajna means worshipping God in the form of Fire. The purpose of Sri Rama Yajna is to establish Rama Rajyam,

a state of utopia (a perfect state). The materials used in performing the Yajna have a specifi c and prescribed effect. During the fi ve-day Sri Rama Yajna, Ruthwiks (Vedic scholars) from India will be chanting twenty-four thousand slokas from Sri Rama-yana. Each participant will take the title of Yajamani (lead perfomer) for the Yajna. All devotees will receive Yaga Prasadam.

Sri Sita Rama Kalyanam: Satur-day, October 29

Saamoohika Sri Sita Rama Kaly-anam will be conducted on Saturday, October 29th. The purpose of Sri

Sita Rama Kalyanam is manifold: to annihilate negative energy, to ensure the prosperity of progeny, to bestow a long and productive life, and to promote universal prosperity. More than 800 families will be able to take part in this auspicious event. Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji will guide the devotees throughout the entire Puja process. Each participant will be given a Sri Rama Parivaar Vigraha set, Pancha Patras, and Puja plate along with all necessary puja mate-rial which devotees will take home. Seating is on a rolling basis. Devotees are requested to register early to get priority seating.

Sahasra Kalasa Abhishekam: Sunday, October 30

The highlight of Sri Rama Seva is Abhishekam to Lord Sri Rama with 1001 Kalasas, the Sahasra Kalasa Abhishekam. The primary purpose of this puja is to ward off and contain natural calamities. It also bestows in-dividual and universal prosperity and eliminates planetary impediments. It is said in the Sastras that the Sahasra Kalasa Abhishekam is the most pow-erful form of Abhishekam and yields the same benefi t as the Aswamedha Yagam conducted by Sri Rama Him-self. This is a truly auspicious event and should not be missed! Kalasas that are used in the Abhishekam can be sponsored by devotees all over the world and taken home as a keepsake of this memorable event.

IshtisIshti is a yajna performed to fulfi ll

a particular desire. During the event,

four Ishtis will be performed as de-tailed below.

Sri Nrusimha Ishti—for elimina-tion of planetary impediments—Thursday, October 27th

Sri Lakshmi Narayana Isthi—for wealth and prosperity—Friday, Oc-tober 28

Sri Hayagreeva Ishti—for educa-tion—Saturday, October 29

Sri Vainateya Ishti—for those who wish to have children—Saturday, October 29

To register for the above events or for further information on the event schedule, visit www.ashtalakshmi.org or call 281-498-2344.

Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple is located at 10098 Synott Road, Sugar Land, TX, 77498

COMMUNITY



®All rights reserved. No material herein or portions thereof may be published without the written consent of the publisher. The deadline for advertising and articles is 5 pm on Monday of each week. Please include self-addressed, stamped envelope for return of all unsolicited material. Published at 7457 Harwin Drive, Suite 262, Houston, Texas 77036. Tel: 713-789-NEWS or 6397 Fax: 713-789-6399, email: [email protected], website: indoamerican-news.com

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GRAPHIC DESIGN: SAQIB RANA

September 23, 201118 September 23, 2011 September 23, 2011 EDITORIALBlack is Bountiful

Indians, by and large, have an aversion to anything dark. Wheth-er it’s sugar, fl our or skin complexion, dark is out and white is in, the whiter the better. The exception to this colour-coded scheme of things is money. Indians, or at least some Indians, have a distinct preference for so-called ‘black’ money over ‘white’ money.

Most of India’s undisclosed wealth is stashed away abroad, in accommodative places like Switzerland and the Cayman Islands which call themselves ‘tax havens’, a euphemism for banking systems that turn a blind eye to the sources of clandestine riches. According to the Swiss Banking Association report of 2006, Indians have more undeclared booty hidden away in secret ac-counts than all the rest of the world combined. If the estimated $1,456 billion of Indian money secreted in offshore banks were to be brought back to the country, India’s foreign debt would be wiped out some 13 times over, and there’d still be some spare change left.

The UK government has reportedly struck a deal with the Swiss authorities whereby, from 2013, Switzerland will tax the Swiss bank accounts of UK citizens and transfer this money to the Brit-ish exchequer. Though the names of the account holders will not be disclosed, the British taxman hopes to gain between £3 billion and £6 billion a year. Germany is said to have signed a similar agreement with Switzerland, and the US has managed to arm-twist the so-called ‘gnomes of Zurich’ into providing information about American citizens who have undisclosed Swiss accounts.

So, why doesn’t the Indian government try and do something along the same lines? According to Rudolf Elmer - a senior Swiss bank executive who was earlier arrested in Switzerland for being a whistleblower and releasing to WikiLeaks a CD with the names of over 2,000 international tax evaders who had secret Swiss ac-counts - New Delhi “doesn’t do enough” to pressure Switzerland into disclosing the details of Indian accounts in that country.

The reason for sarkari inaction on the issue of offshore accounts is the same as that for its feet-dragging approach to bringing in effective Lokpal legislation so many years after the idea was fi rst mooted. In both cases, there seems to be what is often called ‘lack of political will’ to do what obviously needs to be done. For ‘lack of political will’ read ‘fear of consequences’. Political parties across the board are understandably loth to open up cupboards out of which would tumble all manner of incriminating fi nancial skeletons. This conspiracy of inaction is not just restricted to the political class. According to whistleblower Elmer, many rich Indians, including business magnates, fi lm stars and sports ce-lebrities, have wealth hidden away in tax havens. It’s in no one’s interest to rock the boat.

Except, perhaps, the interest of the common citizen who, whether it’s a question of black money kept abroad or any other form of graft and fi nancial hera-pheri, is perhaps not so common as we might like to think. With so much of India literally in the black, should the rare honest citizen be more accurately described as the un common citizen? Times of India

Who Congress Fears the Most?BY MINHAZ MERCHANT

During the last few months, Anna Hazare’s crusade against corruption has ripped the masks off several distinguished faces. We thought the Niira Radia tapes had exposed the cozy nexus between power brokers and senior journalists. But since An-na’s campaign took off in April, a few otherwise excellent media organisa-tions have compounded the folly by launching choreographed attacks on anti-corruption activists.

Proximity breeds complicity. If journalists get too close to their sub-jects, they end up losing objectivity. Reporting on politics requires keep-ing politicians at arms length. Tap sources for authentic information. But the moment you become an instrument in the hands of a political party you forfeit your status as an im-partial watchdog of the government.

The media must have a construc-tive but adversarial relationship with the government – whether it’s the Congress at the Centre or the BJP in Karnataka. The fourth estate has a responsibility to the fi fth estate – the public whom we all serve and whose trust we hold – to be a tough but fair observer of the other three estates: the executive, legislature and judiciary.

Take two recent examples of cho-reographed journalism which violat-ed that public trust. It was deliberately misreported that Anna Hazare had called voters “corrupt”. He had in fact said on record – in the context of the Tamil Nadu assembly elections – that politicians were corrupting voters by bribing them with cash and TV sets. This factual statement was distorted with clear mala fi de intent through synchronized editorials, op-ed ar-ticles, front-page reports and slanted TV commentary.

The second example of choreo-graphed journalism was the spate of motivated reports on Prashant and Shanti Bhushan’s doctored CD which appeared on the front pages of two newspapers – and disappeared as rapidly once the required dam-age to the reputation of the two key Team Anna members had been ac-complished.

Why is the Congress in particular –

and other political parties in general – so fearful of Anna that they wilfully distort what he says? The answer: his anti-corruption campaign cuts the corrupt political class to its bone. Those who cannot be defeated must be discredited with the help of friend-ly newspapers and TV channels.

The Congress fears only one out-come: losing power. Its anger at Anna Hazare stems from the realisation that he has turned the tide of public opin-ion – perhaps decisively – against it. Losing power means losing access to the huge cache of black money from kickbacks in mining leases, land allocations and public-private-partnership contracts that all gov-ernments in offi ce – Congress, BJP, BSP – covet.

The only national-level threat to the Congress is the BJP. It is therefore central Congress strategy to discredit it at every opportunity. This is best achieved by creating a fear psychosis among ordinary Muslims that a BJP-led government at the Centre will leave them vulnerable to communal riots and discrimination. True secular-ism educates and enriches Muslims as opposed to faux secularism that impoverishes them and places them in neat, exploitable little votebanks. All thoughtful leaders of the Muslim

community must urgently ponder: for how long will they remain complicit in exploiting their own people?

Most political parties in power – whether the Congress at the Centre or the BJP in the states – use black money to enrich themselves. The number of crorepati-MPs has risen exponentially from 156 in the 2004 Lok Sabha to 315 in the 2009 Lok Sabha. Signifi cantly, the number of MPs with criminal chargesheets fi led against them has also risen during the same period – from 128 to 162.

Anna’s demand to clean up this deeply tainted political system has been termed “blackmail” – again by the same cabal of government-friendly media. That turns the defi ni-tion of blackmail on its head. Who is blackmailing whom? Those who practice the politics of smear or those who are victims of it?

The Congress watched Narendra Modi’s self-purifi cation exercise ear-lier this week with growing trepida-tion. The party knows it is now caught in a pincer movement. Anna has turned the secular middle-class away from it. Modi could do the same with a much larger mass Hindu majority fed up with the government’s soft-on-terror, soft-on-Pakistan line which keeps its Muslim votebank fearful and captive. Those who create such communal paranoia claim to protect minorities but in fact marginalize them as Muslims rather than treating them as Indians fi rst.

Anna and Modi have different agendas. They have little in common ideologically. But together their sup-porters form an electoral juggernaut which could send the Congress’s na-tional voteshare plunging in the next Lok Sabha election from 28.55% to below 25%. The last time that hap-pened was in the 1998 Lok Sabha poll. The Congress won 25.82% national voteshare then and 141 Lok Sabha seats. It sat in Opposition for the next six years. It is the fear of history repeating itself that drives the Congress strategy to discredit Anna and demonise Modi with more that a little help form its distinguished friends in the media.

- Times of India

Anna and Modi have different agendas. They have little in common ideologi-cally. But together their supporters form an electoral juggernaut which could send the Congress’s national voteshare plunging in the next Lok Sabha election from 28.55% to below 25%.



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19September 23, 2011EDITORIAL COMMUNITY

BY NEERAJ SALHOTRAHOUSTON: In March 2011, Hous-

ton Mayor Anise Parker launched Houston Service, a plan to “engage citizens locally to make a difference against pressing City issues.” Upon laying out this plan, Mayor Parker noted: “Houston Service will allow us to harness our collective passion for service and better target our vol-unteer efforts toward areas of critical need.” One aspect of the plan is the Everyone Can be a Lifesaver initia-tive, which involves training Hous-tonians on a potentially lifesaving technique compression-only CPR so that more people are ready to respond to instances of cardiac arrest.

Last Saturday, to commemorate the 10th anniversary of 9-11, the Mayor’s Offi ce hosted a CPR training day. As an intern with the Mayor’s Offi ce, I volunteered at an event, and we trained over 100 Houstonians! But, I thought we could make a bigger impact; specifi cally, I thought the Mayor’s Offi ce could partner with the Arya Samaj of Greater Houston to train numerous Houstonians.

Therefore, on the 10th anniversary of 9-11, in an event celebrating both America’s amazing diversity and its unmatched dedication to service, I along with fi ve Arya Youth Man-dal students (Pooja Salhotra, Uma Zingde, Neil Patel, Abhinav Sardana, and Arjun Aggarwal) led a training campaign at the Arya Samaj. We dis-tributed CPR kits to over 40 Houston families that will help train over 150 individuals!

As we were explaining the Every-one Can be a Lifesaver initiative to Arya Samaj members, I could see the happiness and excitement on their faces. Arya Samaj congrega-tion members were thrilled that the Mayor’s Offi ce was engaging them. Everyone was grateful for the oppor-tunity to make a difference and help save a life. As one lady remarked: “This is just an amazing project. Thank you so much!” It was this de-sire to serve, the willingness to help, and eagerness to learn that made me so proud to be both a Houstonian and an Arya Samaji.

This collaboration between the Arya Samaj of Greater Houston and the Houston Mayor’s Offi ce was a success as hundreds of people were CPR trained and became “Lifesav-ers.” In fact, as Cameron Waldner,

Chief Service Offi cer with the Hous-ton Mayor’s Offi ce said: “We cannot thank the members of the Arya Samaj of Greater Houston enough for their continued support of Everyone Can be a Lifesaver.”

The partnership also showed that the Arya Samaj of Greater Houston is much more than just a temple; rather, the Arya Samaj of Greater Houston, is an institution that serves and betters the broader Houston community. As Devinder Mahajan, founding mem-

Arya Samaj to Host CPR Trainee Campin Partnership with the Mayor’s Offi ce

Arya Youth Mandal Membersber of Arya Samaj of Greater Houston told me: “the Arya Samaj is com-mitted to improving the community, serving others, and helping our youth become better individuals.”

This event proved that the Arya Sa-maj, both its youth and its adult mem-bers, are committed to seva, to serving others. On this day, like on so many others, the Arya Samaj of Greater Houston exemplifi ed its mission—”Krinvanto Vishwam Aryam,” To Make the World Noble.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3also loves DJ-ing at weddings. He enjoys the environment, the cultural

ethos, the baraat (which he admits can be quite a hoot!), the receptions, and the joy of being part of memorable occasions. Intuitive, Virani confi ded that providing music for a club is very different from spinning discs at a wedding.

“The energy of the club scene is edgy, high energy, constantly pulsating with – and pardon the analogy – a testosterone buzz. There are no boundar-ies. Weddings, on the other hand, are toned down, more respectful, as you have different age groups coming together in a family atmosphere. Would he consider combining the two, and giving weddings a taste of the club scene. He laughed and threw up his hands in glee.

“It’s funny you mention that. I’m actually working on a wedding package called Club My Wedding in which my entertainment company creates a club ethos in a reception ballroom with the use of various intelligent lighting effects, plasma screens, lounge furniture, contemporary décor and other things I’m still working on,” said Virani.

Virani’s next huge bash is slated for New Year’s Eve 2012. He’s planning on putting together an event in a safe, classy, upscale, venue. Be there!

For more information or to book Virani for your event, visit www.desi-djAV.com.

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September 23, 201120 September 23, 2011 September 23, 2011 COMMUNITYOpening of New Bala Vihar Year at Chinmaya Mission of HoustonBY UMA AGGARWAL

HOUSTON: Satsanga Hall at Chinmaya Prabha was packed to the capacity. Children were neatly lined up in the front rows according to their grades. Chanting of Vaidika Arati and Visnu Sahastranama marked the opening of the satsanga on Sept 11,

2011. The special day was the 1st day of Bala Vihar for the year 2011-12.

After the chanting of Visnu Sahas-tranama, all the children lined up with their teachers to offer pranams at Gurudev Swami Chinmayanandji’s Pratima, and then walked over to the Saumyakasi Sivalaya for darsana and blessings of Lord Shiva for an auspicious starting of the New Year. Chinmaya Smrti Hall resonated with

the prayerful Bhajana – Guru ajna-men nisadina rahie – sung by Vivek Chitale.

This year, like every other year, many new families joined Mission making the student enrollment reach almost a thousand. With blessings of Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinma-

yananda and loving leadership of Acaryas Sri Gaurangbhai and Smt. Darshanaben, Chinmaya Mission Houston has achieved this new mile-stone. The growth is phenomenal.

The Bala Vihar program is fl our-ishing under the guidance of Acarya Darshanaben, who tirelessly works to develop an amazing curriculum based on Hindu scriptures and con-tinuously trains and prepares more

than 65 dedicated Bala vihar teachers for teaching the children in a fun yet thought provoking way. Besides Bala Vihar classes, Chinmaya Mission Houston offers language, slokathon, Gita chanting, Bhajana and orchestra classes. In addition to regular Sunday Satsangas, Acarya Sri Gaurangbhai Nanavaty conducts 5 study groups on a weekly basis. This makes Chinmaya Mission Houston a very well reputed Vedantic educational institute.

First day of the New Year also hap-pened to be 10th anniversary of Sept 11, the terrorist attack in New York, which none of us can forget. Acha-rya Gaurang Bhai asked everyone to observe silence and send prayers to all whose lives were affected on this day.

All the teachers joined the Acha-ryas in an opening day puja at the Saumyakasi Sivalaya at 8:15 am for Lord Siva’s blessings for all Bala Vihar children for the New Year.

It is matter of great pride for all the volunteers and Acharyas to see Swamiji’s vision take shape so beauti-fully while they make a pledge to “We Stand as one family bound to each other with love and respect”.

For more information, visit www.chinmayahouston.org or Call Jay Deshmukh at 832-541-0059 or Bharati Sutaria at 281-933-0233

Bala Vihar children (PreK to 5th grade) performing arati and pledge. Photo: Nilesh Shah

Hindi Diwas Celebrated by Indian Embassy in D.C.WASHINGTON D.C. (SI): The Indian Embassy in U.S. hosted an event on 14 September 2011 to celebrate Hindi

Diwas. The event was marked by the presence of Hindi teachers and students from several institutions engaged in the teaching and learning of the Hindi language in Washington DC area.

Also present on the occasion were Hindi poets and writers, offi ce bearers and members of the International Hindi Association and Indian-American community leaders.

Ambassador Nirupama Rao expressed her thoughts on occasion and explained Hindi Diwas as an important date in India’s national calendar. She laid emphasis on Hindi being India’s offi cial language and the promotion of all Indian languages through literature, theater and cinema as part of the larger effort to promote India’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. Ambassador Rao acknowledged the individuals and institutions who are actively engaged in teaching Hindi in the United States.

People in the News

Atul Raj has been named president of Pepper-Lawson Waterworks, a new construction management fi rm specializing in water and wastewater treatment plants formed by Pepper-Lawson Construction. Raj is a gradu-ate of Louisiana Tech University.

Pepper-Lawson Waterworks is a Houston-based general contractor and construction manager special-izing in the waterworks market and serving customers throughout Texas and the Midwest since 1994.

Aziz Gilani has been an operator, consultant, and investor in technol-ogy companies, focusing on software and internet companies. Prior to join-ing DFJ Mercury, Aziz was a Senior Engagement Leader with Infosys Consulting where he led the Enter-prise Asset Management Practice.

Gilani has a BBA from the Uni-versity of Texas at Austin McCombs School of Business, and an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kel-logg School of Manage ment.

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21September 23, 2011COMMUNITY COMMUNITYSamskriti Teams Up with MFAH to Present Play-Reading by Author Gowri RamnarayanHOUSTON: During one of her

visits to the Houston Museum of Fine Arts (MFAH), Gowri Ramnarayan, renowned author and biographer of the late, great Bharat Ratna M. S. Subbulakshmi, was inspired by the “Water Lilies” painting by the French Impressionist, Claude Monet. An idea that was born of this experience has evolved into a three act play. “The trilogy is an attempt to fi nd out if serenity can be reached in a blasts-ridden world”, says Dr. Ramnarayan. In each play, two strangers, a man and a woman, claiming different racial origins, meet by accident in a public space in the U.S. As they share con-fi dences and spill secrets, the casual encounters trigger refl ection. West-ern classical piano anchors the mood in each play, along with images of Monet’s Water Lilies, and the poems of Clark Ashton Smith, Ted Hughes, and a verse from the Brihadaran-yaka Upanishad. The three plays are depicted by the authors imaginative story narration based on the follow-ing themes.

Fawn Lilies: A park in Columbus, Ohio: A bird-watching dietician from Vijayawada, whose boyfriend de-cides to give up love for war, meets a gay vagabond with a wry feel for causes.

Water Lilies: Monet Exhibi-tion, Houston Museum: Dismissing Claude Monet as a painter of pretty fl owers, a Texan investment banker

becomes curious about a Srilankan woman’s passion for Monet’s lily-scapes.

Black Lilies: Washington Dulles Airport: Two days after 9/11, a young school teacher from Tamil Nadu, on her fi rst foreign trip, fi nds a friend in a Serbo-Hungarian novelist on his way to meet his German translator in Frankfurt.

I remember Monet’s lily-scapes. And a poem by Ted Hughes about the water lily, standing still as a painting, despite diabolic onslaughts - from the air, and under water - from within, and without. And the Upanishadic command to be restrained, generous and kind.

Dr. Gowri Ramnarayan is a feature writer (music, cinema, theatre, litera-

ture) for the nationwide English daily The Hindu. She has translated two Marathi plays of Vijay Tendulkar’s, and the Tamil short stories of Ka-lki Krishnamurti. She has authored children’s books and has served as a jury member of Fipresci (an inter-national association of fi lm critics). Her other achievements include vo-cally accompanying Carnatic musi-cian M.S. Subbulakshmi (1981-97). Water Lilies is her fourth play; the earlier ones being Dark Horse (2005), Rural Fantasy (2006) and Flame of the Forest (2007), and Sarpa Sutra (2010) Indira Parthasarathy’s Tamil play, Sutantira Bhumi, about Indian politics, was recently brought to the stage by The Madras Players and Just Us Repertory as Land of the Free, written, directed and designed by Gowri Ramnarayan.

Water Lilies has interesting video clippings of the play enacted in Chen-nai, India. Water Lilies takes place at 2pm on Sunday, September 25, at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Brown Auditorium Theater, 1001 Bissonnet, Houston, Texas 77012.

For more information, call Thara

Narasimhan at 281-265-2787. Ad-mission is free.

Gowri Ramnarayan

BAPS Charities Mobilizes Local Communities for 12th Annual Walkathon

WHO: Benefi ciary: American Diabetes Association, Stafford MSD Education Foundation, and BAPS Charities. Open to all ages of the community.

WHAT: With the theme of “Building a Better Community; One Step at a Time” BAPS Charities organizes a walkathon every year to join hands with the community and give back. With each step, participants of all ages join hands and raise funds for local charities. With a turnout of over 700 walkers last year in Houston and over 11,000 combined in North America, BAPS Charities continues to encourage individuals locally and internationally - in 46 centers.

WHEN: September 25th, 2011 Sunday Registration: 9:00 AM - 9:45 AM Walk: 9:45 AM to 12:00 PM

WHERE: Sugarland City Hall at the Sugarland Town Square, Sugar-land, TX 77479

About BAPS Charities:BAPS Charities is a 501(c)(3) registered nonprofi t international char-

ity organization committed to sincerely serving the world by caring for individuals, families, and communities. It is affi liated with BAPS as an independent charity and social services arm. The 55,000 BAPS volunteers networked in over 3,300 centers around the world provide over 12 million volunteer-hours of service annually.

Among social service charities, BAPS Charities is a well-respected and trusted name. It has amassed over 50 years of fi rsthand experience in initi-ating, managing, and sustaining 160 humanitarian operations throughout the world in such diverse fi elds as: medical services, environmental ser-vices, community services, tribal services, and disaster relief services.

SUGAR LAND: A jury convicted Jan Adrienne Roberts of Assault on September 1, 2011 after deliberating for an hour. Roberts, a 20-year-old Sugar Land woman, was charged as a party for encouraging an accomplice to assault the victim while videotap-ing the attack.

According to Assistant District At-torney Mukul Kelkar, on February 4, 2009, a female student and her friend were leaving the Kempner High School library after school. As they approached the female’s car, they were met by three girls from their high school, including Jan Roberts, Leslie DeCastro, and a juvenile.

DeCastro confronted the female student about her alleged gossip-ing about DeCastro and her friends around school. After the student tried to walk away, DeCastro grabbed her by the hair and threw her to the ground. DeCastro then got on top of her victim and punched her stomach, back, arms, and head over twenty times in the span of a minute.

While DeCastro repeatedly punched her victim, Jan Roberts fi lmed the attack on a digital camera. After almost a full minute, Roberts is heard on the video saying, “Okay, Leslie, just stop, she’s not going to apologize. You’re not getting anywhere… and ROTC is coming.” The prosecution maintained this last statement was a warning to fl ee the

scene, effectively rendering Roberts the “lookout.”

The State also introduced Robert’s statement that she gave to FBISD of-fi cer James Edge the next day. In her statement, Roberts claimed the three of them had waited in the car, and De-Castro told her not to forget to record the fi ght. DeCastro testifi ed that she merely wanted Robert’s to fi lm her victim’s apology, but after the victim refused to apologize, she snapped and impulsively began beating her up.

“Everyone gets the credit, and ev-

eryone gets the blame,” said Kelkar, explaining that the law of parties holds everyone involved accountable. “Jan, Leslie, and anyone else who bullies others now understand that regardless of your level of involve-ment, if you participate in a criminal act, you will be prosecuted.”

Roberts was tried in County Court at Law No. 2 before Presiding Judge Jeffrey McMeans. Assault in this case is a Class A Misdemeanor pun-ishable by up to one year in the county jail and/or a fi ne up to $4,000. The defendant was sentenced to one-year probation, including a $150 fi ne, 60 hours of community service and anger management classes.

Fort Bend County Assistant Dis-trict Attorneys Mukul Kelkar and Elan Levy prosecuted the case. At-torneys Larry McDougal Jr., Larry McDougal Sr. and Andrew Wright represented the defendant.

This was Mukul Kelkar’s last trial as a Prosecutor before leaving to join a fi rm specializing in labor and em-ployment, immigration, and criminal law. “In my time as a prosecutor, I learned that there are some cases that really stand out, where you develop a personal interest in seeing that ag-gressors are brought to justice. I am proud of the work the District Attor-ney’s Offi ce did on this case. It was the perfect ending to that chapter of my legal career”said Kelkar.

Kelkar Convicts Woman in Assault Over Gossip

Mukul Kelkar worked as a Fort Bend County Assistant District Attorney and now has joined Nguyen & Chen, LLP

Dr. Suresh P. Babu to be Presented with Don Klass Technology Award

Gas Technology Institute (GTI) announces that Suresh P. Babu, Ph.D., will be presented with the Don Klass Award for Excellence in Thermochemical Conversion Science to recognize his pioneer-ing and innovative contributions in the fi eld of bioenergy. He will receive the award on September 28 at a tcbiomass2011 dinner event held at the Art Institute of Chicago.

Dr. Babu works in the Global and Regional Solutions Director-ate at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Brookhaven National Laboratory in Upton, NY, where he’s responsible for Biomass Program Development for NE Biomass. Prior to that, Babu worked with Battelle Science & Tech-nology, Malaysia and The Energy & Resources Institute (TERI), Delhi, India to develop pyrolysis of Malaysia’s oil palm biomass and gasifi cation of India’s biomass, respectively. Dr. Babu served in various capacities for more than 30 years at IGT/ GTI, during which heled development of coal and biomass gasifi cation technologies, technology transfer efforts, among other technical leadership roles. He has served as a consultant for E4tech (UK) Ltd., German Council for Sustainable Development, and the Swedish Energy Agency.

About tcbiomass2011tcbiomass2011 is the 2011 International Conference on Thermochemi-

cal (TC) Biomass Conversion Science. The conference will bring together over 300 experts and visionaries in gasifi cation, pyrolysis, upgrading, and pretreatment and char to explore the world of bioenergy, September 27-30, 2011 in downtown Chicago.

Visit www.gastechnology.org/tcbiomass2011 for more conference information, and to register. For up-to-the-minute conference updates, follow “tcbimass2011” on on LinkedIn and Twitter.


September 23, 201122 September 23, 201122 September 23, 2011 September 23, 2011 BUSINESSChina and India Making Inroads in Biotech Drugs

BY GARDINER HARRIS(NYT) Chinese and Indian drug makers have

taken over much of the global trade in medicines and now manufacture more than 80 percent of the active ingredients in drugs sold world-wide. But they had never been able to copy the complex and expensive biotech medicines increasingly used to treat cancer, diabetes and other diseases in rich nations like the United States — until now.

These generic drug companies say they are on the verge of selling cheaper copies of such huge sellers as Herceptin for breast cancer, Avastin for colon cancer, Rituxan for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and Enbrel for rheumatoid arthritis. Their entry into the market in the next year — made possible by hundreds of millions of dol-lars invested in biotechnology plants — could not only transform the care of patients in much of the world but also ignite a counterattack by major pharmaceutical companies and diplo-mats from richer countries.

Already, the Obama administration has been trying to stop an effort by poorer nations to strike a new international bargain that would allow them to get around patent rights and import cheaper Indian and Chinese knock-off drugs for cancer and other diseases, as they did to fi ght AIDS. The debate turns on whether diseases like cancer can be characterized as emergencies, or “epidemics.”

Rich nations and the pharmaceutical industry agreed 10 years ago to give up patent rights and the profi ts that come with them in the face of an AIDS pandemic that threatened to depopu-late much of Africa, but they see deaths from cancer, diabetes and other noncommunicable diseases as less of an emergency and, in some cases, the inevitable consequence of better and longer living.

The debate has intensifi ed in recent weeks, be-fore world leaders gather at the United Nations on Monday and Tuesday to confront surging deaths from noncommunicable diseases, which cause two-thirds of all deaths. It is only the sec-ond global health issue that the United Nations General Assembly has deemed urgent enough to call a meeting to discuss.

Participants in the negotiations, which include nongovernmental organizations, described the Obama administration’s position on the issue and provided e-mails from European diplo-mats that laid out the American stance, which has been adopted in the agreement’s working draft.

Although the draft agreement for this week’s meeting at the United Nations offers no support for poor nations seeking freer patent rules to fi ght cancer and other noncommunicable dis-eases, their advocates have vowed to continue fi ghting to loosen those restrictions not only this week in New York but in continuing internation-

al trade nego-tiations around the world as well.

United States offi cials repeat-edly declined to explain the American po-sition, though Mark Toner, a State Depart-ment spokes-man, said Fri-day, “Regard-less of what you call it, this is clearly such a pressing chal-lenge globally that world lead-ers are gather-

ing in New York next week to discuss ways to confront this threat.”

The United States government has a long history of pushing for strong patent protections in international trade and other agreements to protect important domestic industries like phar-maceuticals and ensure continued incentives for further inventions.

The new biotech copycats are likely to stir sharp debate among advocates for the poor. Already, some contend that the billions spent to treat AIDS have crowded out cheap and simple solutions to other affl ictions of poverty, like childhood diarrhea.

The copycats will be less expensive than the originals, but they will never be cheap. It is un-likely that many African nations will be able to afford such a costly medicine for breast cancer, when far cheaper ones for colon and testicular cancer are going wanting.

Dr. Yusuf K. Hamied, chairman of the Indian

drug giant Cipla Ltd., electrifi ed the global health community a decade ago when he said he could produce cocktails of AIDS medicines for $1 per day — a fraction of the price charged by branded pharmaceutical companies. That price has since fallen to 20 cents per day, and more than six million people in the developing world now receive treatment, up from little more than 2,000 in 2001.

Dr. Hamied said in a telephone interview last week that he and a Chinese partner, BioMab, had together invested $165 million to build plants in India and China to produce at least a dozen biotech medicines. Other Indian com-panies have also built such plants. Since these medicines are made with genetically engi-neered bacteria, they must be tested extensively in patients before sale.

Once those tests are complete, Dr. Hamied promised to sell the drugs at a third of their usual prices, which typically cost tens of thousands of dollars for a course of treatment.

“And once we recover our costs, our prices will fall further,” he said. “A lot further.”

Dr. Peter Piot, a former director of U.N.AIDS, the United Nations AIDS agency, said the paral-lels between the current dilemma over cancer drugs and the one 10 years ago over AIDS medicines were striking. “Without a major reduction in the prices of the essential oncology drugs, there’s no way we can really improve survival from cancer,” said Dr. Piot, currently the director of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.

But he also said he was more cautious about the promise of generics this time, because bio-tech medicines were not easy to copy. “I believe these medicines will make a huge difference, but I would like to see the evidence that the quality is good before giving it to my patients or taking it myself,” he said.

Having suffered global opprobrium 10 years ago when they were seen as blocking efforts to

save the lives of millions of poor AIDS patients, executives for branded drug makers are far more cautious this time about insisting that high prices are necessary. Sara Radcliffe, a spokeswoman for the Biotechnology Industry Organization, said companies supported copycat versions of biotech medicines as long as “countries do not abuse the fl exibilities in international law with respect to compulsory licensing in true public health emergencies.”

Patents generally provide inventors rights to 20 years of exclusive sales, but international law allows countries to force companies to share those rights with competitors under a variety of circumstances, including to protect public health. Even then, countries are generally not allowed to export the products that result from forced patent sharing except under dire circumstances.

But the only way poor countries can get drugs that result from shared patent rights is if another country exports those medicines to them under emergency exceptions.

In retrospect, the battle 10 years ago over AIDS medicines was a small skirmish com-pared with the one likely to erupt over cancer, diabetes and heart medicines. The AIDS drug market was never a major moneymaker for global drug giants, while cancer and diabetes drugs are central to the companies’ very sur-vival. Roche Holding Ltd. earns $19 billion annually, or half its annual drug sales, selling Rituxan, Avastin and Herceptin. And sales of Herceptin have been rising faster in the develop-ing world than in richer nations — making the developing world a crucial market. For middle-income countries straining to provide the best medicine possible, the new copycat biotechs will almost certainly be warmly received.

Mexico alone spends about $120 million buying Herceptin to treat women with breast cancer, which is nearly one-half of 1 percent of all government spending on health care, said Dr. Alejandro Mohar, general director of the Mexican National Cancer Institute. In 2007, Mexico guaranteed access to Herceptin for all women with breast cancer through a public insurance program.

“We would love to have better access to better drugs,” Dr. Mohar said. “This debate is going to heat up.”

Hermillia Villegas, a 47-year-old mother of two in Jalisco, Mexico, recently learned that she had a virulent form of breast cancer that responded well to treatment with Herceptin. Her husband is a janitor, and her doctor initially told her that each of 17 treatments with Herceptin would cost her more than $3,000.

“I don’t have that kind of money,” she said in a telephone interview. The new health insurance program, which pays for the whole cost of the drug, has saved her life, she said.

Heart patients in a Beijing hospital. New generic drugs could treat such ailments more cheaply. Photo: Alexander F. Yuan/Associated Press

Herceptin, a drug used to treat breast cancer, is expensive.


23 September 23, 201123September 23, 2011BUSINESSHOUSTON: The catchy title, a buzz phrase for tourism promotion and

festivals of India all over the world, is very appropriate for the Houston show that will see its third presentation this Sunday, September 25, 8 - 10pm, at the Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park.

Anil Kumar fl oated the idea; Rathna took it and ran with it! The result - Incredible India!; a fascinating cultural journey through a land famed for its vibrant colors and lively dances; a kaleidoscope of its myriad fascinating sights and sounds, from the beautiful dancing peacocks to the meditatively peaceful Yoga, from the graceful Rabindra Nritya to the vigorous Bhangra, from the sculpturesque temple dances of the South to the melodious music of the North. Add to this the exquisite visuals of India’s artistic and architectural highlights, and the show becomes a veritable visual feast. Agnes de Mille once said, “If you wish to understand a nation, look at its dances and listen to its music”, so come to Incredible India and catch the glimpses of its great cultural heritage. Come and hear the mellifl uous voices of Pandit Suman Ghosh and Vidushi

Incredible India Turns 3!

Rajarajeshwary Bhat (courtesy Swaralayam Arts Forum) and their students, singing the glory of Bharat; listen to the soul-stirring beat of nearly 50 tablas as Pandit Shantilal Shah (also courtesy Swaralayam Arts Forum) and his students churn up a dynamic rhythm experience that will get your feet tapping; see splashes of rich hues as dancers from the Anjali Center for Performing Arts (directed by Rathna Kumar & Venugopal Josyula) , Jain Society of Houston (directed by Shefali Jhaveri & Tina Shah), and Upasana Kalakendra (directed by Anisha Rajesh) move in harmony to music from different regions of India, each distinct, each beautiful.

Incredible India is a Samskriti presentation. Admission is free. This program has been made possible by a grant from the City of Houston

and the Miller Theatre Advisory Board.For more information, visit www.samskritihouston.org / www.millerout-

doortheatre.com or call 281-265- ARTS / 832-275-9656

Writers are requested to limit their words to 500 The deadline for advertising and articles is 5 pm on Tuesday of each week. For more information, Call 713-789- NEWS (6397) or email us at: [email protected]

WRITERS ...TAKE NOTICE

Photos: Navin Medivala

IACAN’S Prostate Cancer Seminar: Medical Experts Share Information

BY MITALI PAULHOUSTON: September is Pros-

tate Cancer month and to mark this, IACAN invited Dr. Pulin Pandya and Dr. Ganesh Palapattu, noted urologists and experts in the fi eld of prostate cancer to share their expert-ize with the Indian American com-munity. Dr. Palapattu is the chief of urologic oncology at The Methodist Hospital and Dr. Pandya, is an experi-enced practitioner in the community. On September 11th at 3pm, over 100 attendees gathered at India House to attend the seminar titled “Early Detection and Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer - A Common Cancer among Indian Men”.

The prostate gland, found only in men, is a reproductive organ and is located near the urinary bladder. Prostate cancer is the number one cancer among men and every year over 25,000 deaths are attributed to this disease. Dr. Pandya explained that testing for PSA (prostate specifi c antigen) with a simple blood test can lead to early diagnosis. Some of the common risk factors he mentioned are – diet (consumption of red meat), smoking, family history, infection or infl ammation, and age. Although the rate of incidence among Indians is 2-4%, the incidence among Indian Americans is increasing and the age of individuals diagnosed with pros-tate cancer is also decreasing. So Dr. Pandya recommended an annual physical prostate exam and a PSA

IACAN Board Members with the speakers

test for all men above the age of 50. For those with a history of cancer in the family, the recommended age for annuals is 40.

Dr. Palapattu elaborated about the various treatment options available once you are diagnosed with the disease. Radical prostatectomy, ra-diotherapy, hormone ablation, active surveillance, and proton beam ther-apy are some of the most common treatments with emerging therapies like cryotherapy and HIFU. Each option has its risks and benefi ts and just as the disease is heterogeneous (varies in each individual) so is the treatment option. The audience got to learn about each of the treatment options and the technologies. A video demonstrating the surgical removal of a prostate using a robot captured

the audiences’ awe and some gasps! Dr. Palapattu shared that “most men diagnosed with prostate cancer will die with it as opposed to of it”, but early detection through screening is important to prevent the cancer from spreading.

Both speakers concurred that main-taining close to ideal body weight, exercising regularly, eating a heart healthy diet, moderating alcohol con-sumption and smoking cessation are the best defenses against prostate cancer.

The question and answer session was very interactive and the speakers helped dispel several common myths that the audience shared.

For a copy of the presentation and details on upcoming events, visit www.iacannetwork.org.

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September 23, 201124 September 23, 201124 September 23, 2011 September 23, 2011 RELIGIONfolio line

What do Hindus do for Navaratri?Navaratri starts on the new moon of September/October. On the rst day, it is customary to plant seeds in a clay pot which will sprout over the next nine days. In some communities, women prepare a specially decorated kalasha, a vessel sym-bolizing the fertile womb, representing the Goddess. Especially in cities in Tamil Nadu, families create elaborate shelf dis-plays, called kolu, of handmade clay dolls. Adding new dolls each year and handing the collection down to the next generation results in some grand displays.

How is Navaratri observed in homes?Each night, the Goddess “holds court,” and special food offerings are presented as prayers eulogizing Her powers are chanted. Guests are invited to showcase their artistic skills, and all enjoy sweets and other treats. Women dress up and visit female friends and relatives, taking a tray of offerings which includes the betel leaf and nut that bear the gravity of a formal contract of friendship and loyalty. Other items on the tray—beauty

accessories, fresh turmeric root and coco-nut—symbolize goodwill and fertility. They fast, pray morning and evening, and give food and cooking pots to the poor. Some families formally honor a prepubescent girl each day, giving her new clothes, treating her to a sump-tuous lunch, and pampering her, af rming her femininity and af nity with the Goddess.

How are Shakti’s forms worshiped? In South India the rst three days are dedicated to Goddess Durga, the erce Mother who deci-

mates negative forces. For the next three days, Lakshmi, the Goddess of prosperity, is revered. The last three days are dedi-cated to Sarasvati, the Goddess of learning and wisdom. In this way, Hindus honor women as the protectors of the family, extol their powers of fertility and endur-ance, venerate them as the source of good fortune and revere them as repositories of culture and learning. In North India one of the nine aspects of Durga is venerated each day. These nine days are celebrated by communities in East India as Durga Puja, treating the Goddess as the Daughter who has come to her maternal home for an an-nual visit.

What is the fi nal day? Vijaya Dashami, “triumphant tenth day,” celebrates Durga’s legendary victory over Mahishasura, a powerful being fraught with ignorance and sel shness. On the same day many celebrate Rama’s victory over the evil Ravana. The celebration is a reminder to persist in the challenges we face in life. Local traditions vary widely, and this day is known by other names, including Dussehra, Dasara and Dashain.

HOLY DAYS THAT AMERICA’S HINDUS CELEBRATE

What special events occur on Maha Navami, the ninth day? Books, musical instruments, equipment and tools are placed

before Goddess Sarasvati for blessings, seek-ing Her gifts of talent, ability and inspiration. This rite, called Ayudha (weapon or tool)

Puja, began when the kings of ancient India had their weapons blessed. Today any tool of one’s trade may be consecrated: craftsmen’s

tools, books, of ces, vehicles, comput-ers, even iPhones! Devotees re ect on their skills, strengths, goals and needs. A key rite of passage for children ages three to ve is performed on this day. Called vidyarambha, “beginning of learning,” it marks the start of a child’s formal education.

Are there group festivities? In the evenings, devotees gather to dance in halls and public squares. The Garba, Gujarat’s popular folk dance, is a vigorous dance performed in circles while twirling, jumping, ailing the arms, clapping rhythmi-cally and stepping in sync. In the Dandiya-Ras, sticks are part of the choreography. Dancing is a community expression of joy and togetherness.

SundalThis is a high-protein, low-oil dish made from steamed or boiled whole chickpeas.

Preparation time: Approx. 1 hour Serves: 6 Equipment: A pressure cooker, a ladle, a wok or saucepan and a dish

Ingredients1 cup chickpeas, ½ tsp turmeric powder, 3 tbsp to ½ cup grated coconut, 1 tsp black mustard seeds, broken dried red chillies (to taste), ½ tsp asafoetida powder, sliced green chillies (optional), curry leaves, salt

Method1. Beforehand, soak the chickpeas for 12

hours. Cook with the turmeric powder and salt in a pressure cooker (1:2 ratio of beans to water) until soft but rm, not mushy. Drain and set aside.

2. Heat ghee; add the mustard seeds and let them pop.

3. Add the curry leaves, chillies and asafoetida; roast the mixture slightly.

4. Add the cooked chickpeas. Stir gently over a low ame, taking care not to mash them.

5. Add grated coconut and salt to taste. Mix well.

6. Enjoy!

This educational poster is part of Hindu Festival Outreach, a collaboration between Sanatana Dharma Foundation of Texas and HINDUISM TODAY magazine in Hawaii. Additional resources may be found at www.hinduismtoday.com/festivals. Soumya Sitaraman and Usha Kris, respectively author and photographer of Follow the Hindu Moon, generously contributed text and graphics (hindumoon.com).

FACT: Hindus place high value on self improvement through education and learning of all kinds. In bygone days women and men were educated from age seven: students lived as part of their teacher’s family. Hindus revere women as the guardians of culture, family, religion, learning and prosperity. Modern Hindu society has the highest number of female spiritual leaders in the world.

FICTION: Many wrongly believe that Hindu women are prohibited from learning, performing rites, ritual and prayer. Hindu women are not oppressed or considered unequal to men, but honored and respected. Hinduism is the only major religion to honor God’s feminine power!

Tidbits About Navaratri

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Dedicating 9 Nights to the GoddessNavaratri

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Millions of Hindu women consider Navaratri the year’s central festival, the one they most deeply connect to. These nine days dedicated to Shakti, the Goddess, provide an opportunity to

seek blessings and commune with their own divinity. It is a time for sacred gatherings, austerities, sel ess acts and intimate prayers. But Navaratri is not just for the ladies; everyone turns out for the joyous worship, festivities, plays, feasting and dance—all venerating God as the loving Mother Spirit that gives life to everything.

What do Hindus do for Navaratri?

Navaratri starts on the new moon of September/October. On the fi rst day, it is customary to plant seeds in a clay pot which will sprout over the next nine days.

In some communities, women prepare a specially decorated kalasha, a vessel symbolizing the fertile womb, representing the Goddess.

Especially in cities in Tamil Nadu, families create elaborate shelf displays, called kolu, of handmade clay dolls.

Adding new dolls each year and handing the collection down to the next generation results in some grand displays.

How is Navaratri observed in homes?

Each night, the Goddess “holds court,” and special food offerings are presented as prayers eulogizing Her powers are

chanted. Guests are invited to showcase their artistic skills, and all enjoy sweets and other treats. Women dress up and visit female friends and relatives, taking

a tray of offerings which includes the betel leaf and nut that bear the gravity of a formal contract of friendship and accessories, fresh turmeric root and coconut—

symbolize goodwill and fertility. They fast, pray morning

and evening, and give food and cooking pots to the poor. Some families formally honor a prepubescent girl each day, giving her new clothes, treating her to a sumptuous lunch, and pampering her, affi rming her femininity and affi nity with the Goddess.

How are Shakti’s forms worshiped?

In South India the fi rst three days are dedicated to Goddess Durga, the fi erce Mother who decimates negative forces. For the next three days, Lakshmi, the Goddess of prosperity, is revered. The last three days are dedicated to Sarasvati, the Goddess of learning and wisdom. In this way, Hindus

honor women as the protectors of the family, extol their powers of fertility and endurance, venerate them as the source of good fortune and revere them as repositories of culture and learning. In North India one of the nine aspects of Durga is venerated each day. These nine days are celebrated by communities in East India as Durga Puja, treating the Goddess as the Daughter who

has come to her maternal home for an annual visit.

What is the fi nal day?Vijaya Dashami, “triumphant

tenth day,” celebrates Durga’s l e g e n d a r y v i c t o r y o v e r Mahishasura, a powerful being fraught with ignorance and selfi shness. On the same day many celebrate Rama’s victory over the evil Ravana. The celebration is a reminder to persist in the challenges we face in life. Local traditions vary widely, and this day is known by other names including Dussehra, Dasara and Dashain.

Millions of Hindu women consider Navaratri the year’s central festival, the one they most deeply connect to. These nine days dedicated to Shakti, the Goddess, provide an opportunity to seek blessings and commune with their own divinity. It is a time for sacred gatherings, austerities, selfl ess acts and intimate prayers. But Navaratri is not just for the ladies; everyone turns out for the joyous worship, festivities, plays, feasting and dance all venerating God as the loving Mother Spirit that gives life to everything.

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6. Enjoy!





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6. Enjoy!





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What spec ia l events occur on Maha Navami, the ninth day? Books, musical instruments, equipment and tools are placed before Goddess Sarasvati for blessings, seeking Her gifts of talent, ability and inspiration.

This rite, called Ayudha (weapon or tool) Puja, began when the kings of ancient India

had their weapons blessed. Today any tool of one’s trade may be consecrated: craftsmen’s tools, books, offi ces, vehicles, computers, even iPhones! Devotees refl ect on

their skills, strengths, goals and needs. A key rite of passage

for children ages three to fi ve is performed on this day. Called vidyarambha, “beginning of

learning,” it marks the start of a child’s formal education.

A r e t h e r e g r o u p festivities?

In the evenings, devotees gather to dance in halls and public squares.

The Garba, Gujarat’s popular folk dance, is a vigorous dance performed in circles while twirling, jumping,fl ailing the arms, clapping rhythmically

and stepping in sync. In theDandiya-Ras, sticks are part

of the choreography. Dancing is a community xpression of joy and togetherness.

Tidbits about Navaratri

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6. Enjoy!




Tidbits About Navaratri so

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w Millions of Hindu women consider Navaratri the year’s central

festival, the one they most deeply connect to. These nine days dedicated to Shakti, the Goddess, provide an opportunity to


SundalThis is a high-protein, low-oil dish

made from steamed or boiled whole chickpeas.Preparation time: Approx. 1 hourServes: 6Equipment: A pressure cooker, a ladle,

a wok or saucepan and a dishIngredients1 cup chickpeas, ½ tsp turmeric powder,

3 tbsp to ½ cup grated coconut, 1 tspblack mustard seeds, broken driedred chillies (to taste), ½ tsp asafoetidapowder, sliced green chillies (optional),

curry leaves, saltMethod1. Beforehand, soak the chickpeas for 12

hours. Cook with the turmeric powderand salt in a pressure cooker (1:2 ratioof beans to water) until soft but fi rm,not mushy. Drain and set aside.2. Heat ghee; add the mustard seeds and

let them pop.3. Add the curry leaves, chillies andasafoetida; roast the mixture slightly.4. Add the cooked chickpeas. Stir gently

over a low fl ame, taking care not tomash them.5. Add grated coconut and salt to taste.Mix well.

FACT: Hindus place high value on selfimprovement through education andlearning of all kinds. In bygone dayswomen and men were educated fromage seven: students lived as part of theirteacher’s family. Hindus revere women as the guardians of culture, family, religion,learning and prosperity. Modern Hindusociety has the highest number of femalespiritual leaders in the world.FICTION: Many wrongly believe thatHindu women are prohibited fromlearning, performing rites, ritual andprayer. Hindu women are not oppressed or onsidered unequal to men, but honoredand respected. Hinduism is the only major religion to honor God’s feminine power!

Fact & Fiction



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25September 23, 2011RELIGION HOROSCOPEwww.GaneshaSpeaks.com

ARIES Mar 21 - Apr 20: You will carry on the introspection and evalutaion of your emo-

tions. You will seek the guid-ance astrology has to offer to increase your self-awareness and to reach the higher realms of your personality, even if some of the things you are

asked to do are against your basic inclinations. By nature, you are rather impatient and impul-sive to get your work accomplished, but during this phase you will sober up and feel much more accountable. This will help you in making rapid strides in your profession.

TAURUS Apr 21 - May 21 Recently you have been experiencing good fortune and, out

of a sense of gratitude, you will share your fortune with the society. Don’t overdo your generosity as you might attract allegations of ulterior motives. It may even harm some of

your relationships. The natural effervescence of children will be a great source of happiness for you. There will be perfect harmony in your family affairs. Financial benefi ts will accrue through your good communication skills, and you will progress professionally.

GEMINI May 22 - Jun 21: The highly desirable trends of the past week peak now,

as monetary rewards, awards and recognition pour in from all directions. On taking stock of your present situation, you will see that you are well on course as far as accomplishing

your goals and ambitions are concerned. You will enjoy the fruits of your labour wholeheart-edly. Your social life will be hectic, as you embark on a mission to build new contacts. You will also indulge yourself in the pursuit of a long-cherished hobby. All this will make you feel satisfi ed and serene.

CANCER Jun 22 - Jul 23: They say that charity begins at home, so don’t neglect your

family, because no amount of professional success can give you enduring happiness if you don’t have a loving family to return to in the evening. How-ever, you are a loving person

at heart, and your family is as much your strength as your weakness. Start giving more quality time to your family, especially as elder members may be in dire need of your attention. Children look forward to your coming back home every evening because they love you.

LEO July 24 - Aug 23: You have chosen to tread the path where people tend to look up

to you for general guidance to specifi c problems. Use your time well, set reasonable dead-lines for different activities and resolve to stick to them. Time is a limited resource and you

need to make judicious use of it. By doing so, every facet of your life will see improvement. You will feel more active at work, relation-ships at home will become more harmonious, and you will have more time to play with your children. You will make new strategies and in-novations at your workplace, which will work wonderfully.

VIRGO Aug 24 - Sep 23: You will suddenly be pitchforked into a completely dif-

ferent professional and social environment. You will be called upon to handle business proj-ects and conduct professional negotiations and draw up the blueprints of new partnerships.

You will be more than equal to the task. In fact, you will be the cynosure at all professional and social gatherings, handling the events with panache. You are in an experimental mood, meeting new people, exploring new relation-ships, and even new cuisine, for the old world and old relationships seem to have lost their

charm. LIBRA Sep 24 - Oct 23:

You have been partying, mer-ry-making, overdoing the so-cializing bit not caring where you are headed, but now you

will think hard about getting your priorities straight. Get your act together fast because not only are your expenses mounting but there are people who are getting antagonized and jeal-ous. It’s all very well to think and act big and you have pulled it off successfully but consider ordinary people as your relationships with them are important too.

SCORPIO Oct 24 - Nov 22: You will devel-op more affi nity for your home and your family,

because you realize that your kith and kin are your greatest support and this realization comes from experience. You fi nd it a bit disconcerting that life continuously throws up challenges with which you

may not be comfortable, and you retreat to friendly surroundings to marshal the mental strength to tackle them. Conferences and part-nerships will keep you busy. You will splurge by getting some new pieces of furniture, some luxury and latest gadgets.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 23 - Dec 22: You ride the crest with panache and there is no stopping

you now. You have a happy-go-lucky nature and are not rigid about anything; people fi nd it easy to be and work with you. You never lose your tem-per, and deep in your heart you

experience true happiness in both your personal and professional life. Travel and new tie-ups are on the cards. If you are in the media, you will be successful and gain wide recognition for your creative abilities. You are brimming with novel ideas which impress your peers.

CAPRICORN Dec 23 - Jan 20: There will be too many things distracting you dur-

ing this phase. There will be professional or business col-laborations, religious rituals, conferences and interviews. All of these will lead you in a positive and profi table di-rection. The time is right for

you to expand your contacts and become more extroverted. Offi cial trips are on the cards and they will benefi t you. There is romance too. If you are married, bonding with your spouse and in-laws will strengthen. If you are single, you may meet your life partner.

AQUARIUS Jan 21 - Feb 19: You will tend to relax and will devote more time to your kith

and kin. You will take your family out for excursions to nearby spots of tourist interest and will really enjoy yourself. You will also spend time so-cializing, as there will be a sudden increase of visitors to

your home, perhaps even from abroad. If you happen to be of intellectual inclination, you will perform exceptionally well, if you happen to be creatively inclined. There will also be nothing to complain about.

PISCES Feb 20 - Mar 20: You seem to have turned the corner, as the situation slightly im-

proves on all fronts. You will focus on your relationships, personal, social and profes-sional. A lot of issues that you have been neglecting are de-manding your attention, fam-ily, fi nances, work, friends.

Many deals and projects are on the cards. You will be called upon to take up more responsibili-ties and tackle many liabilities, be alert all the time. But you will manage to bounce back and accomplish the tasks. You are also lucky to have friends that help you out.


September 23, 201126 September 23, 201126 September 23, 2011 September 23, 2011

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september 23 pages 1-26

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