Brisbane INDIAN CONNEXION July 2012 Vol 1, Issue 2 Ipswich proud of strong ties with India and Indians – Mayor Paul Pisasale Dev Anand—the Evergreen Romantic Hero of Bollywood BOLLYWOOD ART & CULTURE Bollywood Gone Global… Or Has It? What Makes Rajasthan a Sought-after Wedding Destination? Is Shahrukh B’wood’s New Bad Boy? Taj Mahal – The Mughal Monument of Love TRAVEL Five Bad Foods that are Good for You HEALTH & WELLBEING First community magazine in three languages! PDF compression, OCR, web optimization using a watermarked evaluation copy of CVISION PDFCompressor
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Brisbane Indian Connexion - July 2012 (Vol 1, Issue 2)
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BrisbaneINDIAN CONNEXION
July 2012
Vol 1, Issue 2
Ipswich proud of strong ties with India and Indians – Mayor Paul Pisasale
Dev Anand—the Evergreen Romantic Hero of Bollywood
BOLLYWOOD
ART & CULTURE Bollywood Gone Global… Or
Has It?What Makes Rajasthan a Sought-after Wedding Destination?
Is Shahrukh B’wood’s New Bad Boy?
Taj Mahal – The Mughal Monument of Love
TRAVEL
Five Bad Foods that are Good for You
HEALTH & WELLBEING
First community magazine in three languages!
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Reasonable care is taken to ensure that Brisbane Indian Connexion (heretofore referred as BIC)
news, articles, and features are as accurate as possible at the time of publication, but we take no
responsibility for any errors or omissions contained in them. The BIC magazine is sold and
distributed on the condition that BIC is not responsible for any damages or losses arising out of
the use of any information contained in the magazine. The opinions expressed are those of the
authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the magazine. No person, entity, or party
should rely on and act upon the contents of BIC without first taking the advice of a well-qualified
professional in the relevant field.
CopyrightThe publishers and the authors reserve their rights in regards to the copyright of BIC contents. No copyrighted works may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means unless the written consent of the publishers has been taken.
Editor’s Worde are glad the community members have started contributing editorial contents, but
we need a few more local writers to put in their mite. Take BIC as your platform for Wgetting yourself heard, within the community and around. You can send in an
exclusive news story or a feature or a photo(s) for our target readers--Queensland Indians. So if
you believe some event or happening will go unreported in the mainstream media, know an
extraordinary human or a wonderful organization our readers too should know about, or just feel
like raising a community issue, type it all out and send it through.
Much has been mentioned in the Indian media about Bollywood stirring the Hollywood
circuits in recent years, but Adrienne Mc Kibbins might shatter that idea with her insightful
article, Bollywood Gone Global… Or Has It? For some elderly sentimental Indians, sitting
so far away from homeland, thinking of the good ol' days, Devashish Chakraborty's article
on Dev Anand (page 12) will inflame the nostalgia. Those with wandering feet may enjoy
the articles on Taj Mahal and Rajasthan weddings.
Most of us at Brisvaani family are philanthropists. We're game for donation any day. Despite
being busy with food distribution throughout their campaign against the Fiji floods in April,
Brisvaani Aid Foundation (BAF) members spared time to capture some memorable
moments. We are carrying a three-page photo feature (page 38) on their campaign.
Talking of donation, let me remind the rich NRIs with spare dollars that 22% of Indians are
still living below poverty line (IMF-World Economic Outlook Database, April 2010) and
that there's joy in giving. If you've crossed your 60s, it pays to donate. And when you
donate, don't donate to charities. Go direct. Take a few days off, catch that plane to
homeland, settle yourself in a comfy lodge near a ghetto, draw a few lakh rupees in 1000-
rupees notes, and spread them around in the slums. One note can feed an adult for a month
in India and will only cost you roughly $18, the cost of a meal for two in Australia.
Metaphorically speaking, if you are on the edge of the precipice, mulling jumping in the
philanthropic valley, I hope my call pushes you over the edge. If it doesn't appeal to you,
Nadi beats Ba to lift QFACT soccer cup Queensland Fiji Football Association's QFACT tournament, held from May 3 to May 6 at the Acacia Ridge Soccer Club, Brisbane, was a tremendous success, with nine affiliated teams of the QFFA participating: Clubs Nadi, Labasa, Rewa, Levuka, and Nadroga in Pool A and Clubs Ba, Vatukoula, Lautoka, and Suva in Pool B. Raj Padarath and Vineet Raj report.
pool winner with Suva
qualifying for the runners up
spot.
The semi finals saw the Men
in Black Ba take on Labasa in
an exciting encounter, which
at full time was locked at
three goals each. Ba proved
to be the better team when
they scored twice in the
second spell of extra time,
qualifying for a spot in the
grand final. In the other semi
final, Nadi convincingly beat
a very young Suva side by 4 goals to nil to book a
spot in the final with Ba.
This was the first tournament where QFFA
officially also included three veterans' teams who
played on a round robin basis for a right to play in
the final on Sunday afternoon. These teams
included Ba Masters,
Nadroga Masters, and Taki
Reloaded. After the
completion of the round
robin matches, Ba masters
were on top of the table
with two wins, followed by
Nadroga masters with one
win and a loss. However, in
the final, Nadroga Masters
defeated Ba Masters by one
goal to take the $300 prize
money on offer.
The tournament started off with an interesting
twist as Labasa upset the defending champions
Nadi by two goals to nil in their opening match.
However, after the completion of all the pool
matches, Nadi was the ultimate pool winner and
Labasa the runners up. In Pool B, Ba was the
May 6 was also the day for the juniors where
the kids under 7s, under 8s, and under 15s
participated in curtain-raiser matches. These
couple of hours become one of the most
interesting sessions of the tournaments as the
interest shown by kids/parents/families and
general public is just tremendous. All kids are
awarded with medals at the presentation
before the Grand Final. (The organisers have
jumping castle for the kids on Sundays as
well. If you would like to register for your
child / children to play in these tournaments
please contact through the details given in the
box above. Registrations for kids are free!)
For the first time in QFFA history two non-
Fijian origin teams were invited to play an
exhibition match prior to the grand finale--
two Sikh teams from Brisbane. This saw
Brisbane Sikh United take on New Farm Boys
in front of the growing crowd in anticipation
The Next QFFA Tournament Tournament: QBOGDate: July 5 – 8 Venue: Acacia Ridge sports ground (244 Mortimer Rd, Acacia Ridge)
Words of Appreciation from QFFAQFFA extends special thanks to all the patrons and spectators who contributed to the success of the QFACT tournament. In particular, thanks to all clubs and individuals who donated items for the auctions and those who placed bids during the auction. QFFA would also like to acknowledge and pass on its appreciation to those individuals and teams who bought food from the canteen supporting the Fiji Flood Appeal. QFFA values the support of its major sponsors MCs Indian and Island Foods for the QFACT tournament and also acknowledges the support and donations of Mr Ravi Sharma towards the QFACT prize money and perpetual trophies for the winners and runners up.
BIC|local Stories
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 8
BA runners up holding QFACT trophy
Nadi team winning trophy QFACT
Labasa PLayer Raunak Prasad receiving his Young Player of the Tournament trophy from Mr Sadu Prasad (QFFA patron)
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Wronged taxi driver's plight sparks solidarity among driversA recent case of a taxi driver accidently killing and subsequently being charged has fostered solidarity among the taxi driving fraternity in Queensland.
According to reports, the Indian Maxi-taxi driver
has been charged for causing grievous bodily
harm and dangerous driving resulting in
allegedly killing a youth and seriously injuring
another one. The driver is a 28-year-old student
who has recently completed his degree in
Accounting.
The Oz Cabbie magazine reports in May 4, 2012
issue on page 7: “In a remarkable show of
solidarity, taxi operators, drivers and networks
have come together to support the defence of a
Black and White maxi driver who, after his taxi
was attacked by a mob of youths, accidentally
ran two of them down as he was fleeing his
attackers, killing one and seriously injuring the
other. So far Queensland Taxi Advisers Inc. has
secured the services of a high profile Brisbane
barrister to defend the driver.”
The incident happened on the fateful night of
May 4, 2012 at about 12.15 am. A maxi taxi was
called at a street address in Narangba where a
party was going on. A violent and drunken mob
of youths attacked the driver's taxi, causing
severe damage. The driver panicked and ran for
his life but hit two youths who came in his way
and were seriously injured. One of them died
later.
He reported the incident to the police who had
already been informed about the behaviour of the
drunken youths.
Again, I quote from “Oz Cabbie” May 4, 2012
issue, “Have Your Say” column, where a Sydney
taxi driver writes, “Driver got scared, floored the
pedal to escape and a couple of these animals
didn't get out of
the way in time.”
He continues,
“Am I sorry for
the two youths,
their families and
friends? Of course
I am, but I'm more
sorry for the maxi
driver, who
frightened and
alone had to make a snap decision on how to save
himself and his taxi from a violent, out-of-control
mob.” He further writes about his bitter experiences
of driving at night time in Sydney, the runners, and
all the damage caused to his taxi. He ends his
article by saying “Had someone been in front of my
cab I might have killed them and in that split
second I couldn't give a damn. I just had to get
away to safety. It's called “self-defence”!
The Queensland Taxi
Advisers Inc. and
Queensland Taxi
Owners and Driver's
Welfare Association
Inc. (QTOADWA) have
launched an appeal to
raise funds to finance
the case which could
cost thousands of
dollars.
I spoke to Nash
Dosangh, the president
of QTOADWA, and he
confirmed that a sum of
about $20,000 has
already been collected
by the drivers and other
interested parties. But
he added that much
more was needed to
fight the driver's case.
He further said: “If this
happened to one driver,
it could happen to
anyone, anytime. The
drivers are doing a
service to the public,
Anyone wishing to contribute or donate to the drivers defence fund can make a transfer directly to Taxi Drivers Defence Fund Account BSB 484 799 Acc 204 404 700 Or contact Nash Dosangh on mobile 0402069869 and Mohan Singh on 0412697741
It was a taxi like this that the violent and drunken mob of youths attacked on the fateful
night of May 4, 2012, causing severe damage.
BIC|local Stories
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 10
driving at night, putting their life at risk, and
they deserve better treatment. In the past, in
many cases, the driver has been punished and
the culprits go free.” This was also confirmed by
an elderly member of the community, Mohan
Singh. “This body was a non-profit making
organization, the executive committee are all
volunteers working towards owners and drivers
working conditions,” Mr Singh said.
By Shahban Ali
BIC
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Ipswich proud of strong ties with India and Indians – Mayor Paul PisasaleIpswich has emerged almost 18 months on from the devastating floods of January 2011 with renewed strength and a sense of purpose, which has cemented its ties to many groups, including the Indian community.
pswich Mayor Paul Pisasale said the city
was proud of its close relationship with IAustralia's Indian community and grateful
for the support they had provided as it rebuilt
after the flooding which occurred.
“Since the floods it has been a time of heart-
warming stories of courage and selfless
generosity which have brought our community
even closer together,” he said.
Cr Pisasale said Ipswich's close ties to the Indian
community have been developed over many
years. “We have been working together for more
than five years and have become firm friends in
that time. In 2007 I was privileged to have the
opportunity to be part of a special deputation to
India.”
The Indian city officials extended an invitation to
Cr Pisasale after learning of his solid relationship
with the Indian community in South-East
Queensland, including his role as a former Indian
of the Year.
"This visit confirmed the tremendous potential for
investment in Ipswich by major Indian based
corporations,” Cr Pisasale said. “It also opened my
eyes to how different cultures functioned in the
business world and made me even more eager to
explore future business and economic relations
with India.”
Cr Pisasale added that Ipswich had also joined
forces in 2010 with Brisbane City Council to sign a
memorandum of understanding for co-operation
with the Indian city of Hyderabad.
“The city's booming IT, mining, construction,
infrastructure and training industries and reputation
as a pharmaceutical and biotechnology hub offers
many development and investment opportunities
for Ipswich and Brisbane.”
Cr Pisasale said Ipswich maintained a close
working relationship with India through two
special local representatives - Ipswich Honorary
Business Ambassadors Sunil Gurram and Manju
Jehu.
“We are working with Sunil and Manju to
develop as many opportunities as we can to
foster business partnerships in the future for the
mutual benefit of both countries and in particular
Ipswich.”
Cr Pisasale said he believed the ties between
Ipswich and India were strong and business and
investment opportunities within Ipswich would
continue to develop as a result of this special
relationship.
"Education is high on the agenda with India
increasingly important as a country with students
wishing to study in Australia. With Ipswich home
to two universities, the importance of overseas
students coming here to study will be vital to the
future of education as a generator of employment
and growth in the region.
"To grow we must engage in fostering global
partnerships with cities and countries such as
India who are interested and willing to invest in
Ipswich.”
QFACT tournament helps raise $3460 for BAF's Fiji Flood Appeal The recent QFACT tournament organised by Queensland Fiji Football Association
(QFFA) from May 3 to 6 was a tremendous success. QFFA had promoted the event very well and used the occasion to raise funds for the Brisvaani Aid Foundation’s (BAF) Fiji Flood Appeal.
ith support from QFFA-affiliated district clubs and general public,
$1200.00 was raised through canteen sales, as $2.00 per serve was Wallocated towards the flood relief. At the same time, an auction was
organised by QFFA that raised a further $2260.00, to take the total figure raised
during the tournament to $3460.00. This money is on top of the $2000.00 donated
earlier. QFFA also helped raise $4000.00 in 2009 Fiji floods for BAF.
“QFFA is very grateful to Radio Brisvaani for the media promotion for the event,
and to all those who helped in making this event a success, to help raise funds for
the Fiji Flood Appeal. QFFA keeps working hard for the promotion of soccer
among our community and bringing the community together through sports and
social events,” QFFA organisers said in a media release.
The next QFFA tournament, QBOG, is scheduled from July 5 to July 8 and
will include Masters Teams from interstate.
BIC
BICAveen, Raynold, and Avinash, QFFA members, presenting the cheque to the Brisvaani Aid Foundation president, Ambika Prasad
BIC
BIC|local Stories
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 11
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Dev Anand has left an indelible impression on his fans and the reasons can be found in the romantic tale of his life, says Devashish Chakraborty
ev Anand could have been a successful
advocate following in the footsteps of Dhis father and one of his brothers.
When he was born on September 26, 1923, in
Shakargarh tehsil of Gurdaspur district in Punjab,
which is now Narowal district of Pakistan, no
one in his family could have contemplated his
iconic rise to fame in the coming years. Though
his early inclination was to become an actor, it
would not have been enough to become successful
in life. But he was determined and left his
hometown for Bombay in the early 1940s. There
his perseverance got him the lead role in Prabhat
Films' Hum Ek Hain in1946. However, it was only
in 1948 that he got his first major break as the hero
for the Bombay Talkies production, Ziddi (1948),
which became a great success. This bolstered him
to start producing films and he launched his own
company Navketan Films in 1949. Baazi (1951)
was Navketan Films' first hit movie.
In the late 1940s, Dev Anand paired with singer-
actress Suraiya in seven successful movies:
Vidya (1948), Jeet (1949), Shair (1949), Afsar
(1950), Nili (1950), Do Sitare (1951), and
Sanam (1951). But critics attributed the
success to Suraiya's acting prowess and screen
presence. Undaunted by criticism, Dev Anand
began looking for an opportunity to dispel
scepticism about his acting abilities. His
experiments with different genres like playing
As Actor and Director
the role of smuggler in Jaal (1952), gangster in
Dushman (1957), black marketeer in Kala Bazar
(1960) and murderer in Bombai ka Baboo (1960)
were successful. But critics considered his
performance “more style than substance”.
However, he silenced them with a nuanced
performance in Guide (1965), which was based
on R.K. Narayan's novel of the same name.
Dev Anand of the sixties acquired the image of a
romantic hero with films like Manzil (1960), Tere
Ghar Ke Samne (1963), Kinaare Kinaare
(1964), Maya (1961), Asli-Naqli (1962), Jab
Pyar Kisise Hota Hai (1961), Mahal (1969), and
Teen Deviyan (1965).
His directorial debut in Prem Pujari (1970), an
espionage drama, was a flop. But his first
directorial success came with his 1971 movie
Hare Rama Hare Krishna, which portrayed the
prevalent hippie culture. After a few flops, he
delivered commercial hits again with Banarasi
Babu (1973), Chhupa Rustam (1973), Amir
Dev Anand was very particular about the kind of music he wanted for his movies. He could carry different singers like Mohammed Rafi (Khoya khoya chand) and Kishore Kumar (Khwaab ho tum ya koi haqeeqat) with consummate ease.
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 12
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were released and these were mostly Hindi. IAdded to this were various screenings of
Tamil and Punjabi films and the Indian Film
Festival where a variety of regional cinema was
screened. On average, it means a new Indian film
at least every two weeks in Australia.
Indian films hold the highest percentage of
foreign films shown in Australia. The majority of
these films are shown nationally in the
multiplexes. By the end of 2011, eight of these
films had entered the list of highest-grossing
Hindi films of all times. It was also the year
when four of these films crossed the Rs 100
crore mark, some of that money coming from
box office outside India, notably RA One,
Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Don 2. In fact, all the
successful films of 2011 including Bodyguard,
Delhi Belly, Murder 2, and The Dirty Picture were
released in Australia.
Much is made in the Indian press of the worldwide
commercial success of Hindi films, and many of
the recent books being published on Bollywood
have 'global' in the title. But does 'global' mean any
sort of recognition for Hindi cinema?
Outside the local Indian population, how many
Australian cinemagoers know these films are on, let
alone if they are major box office attractions? Of
course, these films are mentioned in local Indian
press, and we have the benefit of knowing that
Hindi films are released worldwide normally on a
Friday, although a few have
been creeping in for a
Thursday release in keeping
with normal release
schedules in Australia. Hindi
releases can be followed on
the net, which is not always
the case with other foreign
language films, which do not
have simultaneous
worldwide release.
It has been written and often quoted that Shah Rukh
Khan is the biggest movie star in the world you
have never heard of (unless you are an Indian).
While this seems a rather silly statement, it could
Bollywood Gone Global… Or Has It?Much is made in the Indian press of the worldwide commercial success of Hindi films,
and many of the recent books being published on Bollywood have 'global' in the title. But does 'global' mean any sort of recognition for Hindi cinema? By Adrienne Mc Kibbins.
easily be proven by asking those in a queue at an
Australian multiplex, who is Shah Rukh Khan?
Hindi cinema may have become global in many
ways. The increasing number of Hindi films have
lately been filmed outside India: Don2 –
Malaysia and Berlin, Zindagi – Spain, Agent
Vinod – a variety of European countries, RA
ONE, Patalia House, Desi Boys and others in
London, not to mention Australia as a location
for, Chak De India, We Are Family, Heyy Babyy,
to name a few. The other aspect of globalisation
often talked about in many of the recently
published books is storylines being about NRIs, a
tradition which goes back many years, the most
famous and most often mentioned being DDLJ.
The Hindi industry itself has embraced the idea
of globalisation, by working with technicians
from all over the world. There are also an
increasing numbers of foreign performers
(especially dancers) endeavouring to make their
names in the Hindi film industry.
Recently, actresses like Jacqueline Fernandez,
Giselli Monteiro, Lisa Haydon, Nargis Fakhri,
Amy Jackson, and Angela Jonsson have made
real impressions. Whether they will ever become
Indian superstars like Katrina Kaif, who also
came from overseas with no Hindi, remains to be
seen.
Outside the local Indian population, how many Australian
cinemagoers know these films are on, let alone if they are
major box office attractions? It has been written and often
quoted that Shah Rukh Khan is the biggest movie star in the
world you have never heard of (unless you are an Indian).
While this seems a rather silly statement, it could easily be
proven by asking those in a queue at an Australian multiplex,
who is Shah Rukh Khan?
BIC|bollywood
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 14
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Trishna—A Fascinating Classic Tale Retold in IndiaEnglish filmmaker Michael Winterbottom has re-worked the Thomas Hardy literary classic Tess of the D'Urbervilles into a modern-India tale, with Tess becoming Trishna, played by Freido Pinto, the actress of probably the most famous of films made in India - Slumdog Millionaire. Here's Adrienne Mc Kibbins's take on Trishna.
n ever-increasing number of Indian
films are using overseas locations like AZindegi Na Milegi Dobara – Spain,
Agent Vinod – various parts of Europe, and RA
ONE and Housefull 2 (being only two of a slew
of Hindi films with London as a setting) –
London. Currently, English-speaking filmmakers
are looking to India for locations; The Best
Exotic Marigold Hotel, Eat Pray Love, The
Darjeeling Express to mention a few.
Now one of England's most respected and
eclectic filmmakers, Michael Winterbottom, has
re-worked the Thomas Hardy literary classic
Tess of the D'Urbervilles into a modern-India
setting, with Tess becoming Trishna played by
Freido Pinto, the actress in probably the most
famous of films made in India - Slumdog
Millionaire.
Trishna is not a first-time venture for
Winterbottom to film in India. He made A
Mighty Heart in 2007, where India stood in for
Pakistan, and segments of Code 46 were shot in
Rajasthan. It is also not the first time he has used
Thomas Hardy as source material. The Claim
was loosely based on The Mayor of
Casterbridge, and he made a version of Jude the
Obscure (Jude with Kate Winslett). Like The
Claim, Trishna is very much a re-working of the
original material, and using modern-day India as
the setting is a masterstroke in giving the story
contemporary relevance.
Director Winterbottom maintains it was while
working with a crew from Mumbai in 2003 in
Rajasthan–seeing the opposition of the urban and
rural work ethics–that he was strongly reminded of
Thomas Hardy, and particularly Tess.
“Hardy was describing a similar moment in thEnglish life. A moment when, in the 19 Century,
the conservative rural communities were being
transformed by the agricultural and industrial
revolutions....” Winterbottom uses this analogy
strongly in Trishna. At 19, Trishna has a little more
education than her parents; consequently, she does
not see herself as always being part of the agrarian
life. She has left school and is working in a tourist
hotel to help with family finances. It is at the hotel
that she meets Jay (Riz Ahmed), the layabout son
of the hotel owner, and their doomed relationship
starts.
Winterbottom films India as though he knows it
well, capturing the reality of both social hardships
in Rajasthan and the vibrancy of Mumbai. Like all
Western filmmakers in India, the bustle, noise, and
crowds are highlighted, though in fairness they are
realistically captured without over-attention and
fixation on poverty and severity of life that
foreign filmmakers are often prone to emphasize.
The Mumbai section of the story will be a delight
for Hindi film watchers; director Anurag
Kashyup and his wife actress Kalki Koechlin
have substantial cameos, while other Hindi film
people make appearances, including
choreographer Ganesh Acharya and composer
Amit Trivedi.
Performances are strong. Pinto makes more of an
impression here than she did in Slumdog, and
despite the fact that Trishna is a very reactive
character, Pinto imbues her passivity and makes
the ultimate turnaround very believable.
Likewise, Riz Ahmed (as Jay), though playing an
essentially unlikable character, allows enough
humanity for the audience to believe Trishna's
initial attraction and way out of her current
dilemmas.
Filming in both English and Hindi gives a further
authenticity to the film. Trishna is both a
fascinating revision of a classic, and an insightful
use of India, not just as a backdrop but even as
another character. BICBIC
BIC|bollywood
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 16
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Heart Disease? Have you been advised to undergo angiography or heart bypass? Before you undergo the surgery, try this home-made remedy once. You'll be startled with the results. Insha Allah, you will be cured.
n the April 18 last year, I had to go to Sahiwaal (Pakistan) from the UK to attend the annual Khatme-e-Nabuwat conference. The day before I
suffered acute pain at the place of my heart and thereafter, experienced discomfort, which continued for quite some time. Then I met Hazrat OMoulana Bashir Ahmed Usmani Sahib, a hakim, in Pakistan. I disclosed to him that when the doctors performed angiography on me, they
advised heart bypass as they discovered three of my arteries were blocked and gave a date to operate on me after a month.
During this period, hakim sahib prescribed the remedy below, which I consumed exactly for a month. A day before my bypass operation, I arrived at the
Cardiology Hospital in Lahore (Pakistan) and deposited 225,000 Pakistani rupees towards expenses for my heart bypass surgery. After taking a close look
at the latest results and my previous results, the doctors then asked me if I took any medication after the previous tests were carried out.
I told them of hakim sahib's prescribed remedy. The panel of doctors, surprised by the results, informed me that according to the latest reports all three
arteries were open and functioning normally and that surgery was not required. I was refunded my deposit and told to go home.
Hazrat Moulana Bashir Ahmed Usmani Sahib himself prepared this medicine for me and also told me of its ingredients and how it is prepared, which is
given below:
1 cup fresh lemon juice
1 cup fresh ginger juice
1 cup fresh garlic juice
1 cup apple cider vinegar
3 cups honey
Mix all the juices and vinegar and boil very slowly for about an hour or until about 1 cup of contents evaporate and three cups remain. After it cools down,
mix properly with the three cups of honey. Fill contents in a clean jar and take three teaspoons on an empty stomach every morning. Insha Allah, you will
be cured. And the juice tastes good too!
By Mufti Mohammed Kantharvi, London, UK
BICBIC
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 22
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An Apple a Day Really Does Keep the Away DoctorGastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common and chronic digestive disease that crops up when stomach acid, or bile, oozes back (refluxes) into your food pipe (esophagus). When stomach acid escapes into the esophagus it irritates and inflames the esophageal lining, producing painful, uncomfortable, and dangerous symptoms that can even lead to death.
cid reflux disease is brought about by a
variety of causes, including: A· A hiatal hernia, which arises when part
of your stomach pushes upward through
your diaphragm. Your diaphragm helps
keep acid in your stomach, but if the
hiatal hernia is too large, the diaphragm
cannot do its job, and food and acid
back up into your esophagus.
· Heavy meals and large portions
· Lying down or bending over after a
meal
· Eating right before bed
· Certain foods: citrus, tomato, chocolate,
mint, garlic, onions, spicy or fatty foods
· Certain beverages: alcohol, soda, coffee
or tea
· Smoking
· Pregnancy
· NSAIDs: aspirin and ibuprofen, and
some muscle relaxers or blood pressure
medications
Identifying the cause(s) is
the first step to
treating acid
reflux
disea
the equation. Likewise, over-the-counter (OTC)
medications, such as Pepcid AC and Tums, may
provide temporary relief, but they do not address
the root cause of the disease. Eventually, your
doctor may lure you into taking stronger meds-such
as proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) that cause
dangerous complications and side effects-or
suggest risky and unnecessary surgery.
The Dangers of OTCs and Prescription Drugs
OTCs and prescription drugs, such as Prilosec,
Prevacid and Nexium, have adverse side effects-
and can lead to chronic diseases, such as cancer,
hypertension, and Alzheimer's.
The inordinate amount of minerals found in OTCs
can create mineral imbalances in the body over
time. Prescription drugs are even more dangerous,
and have been proven to
o increase the risk of infection
o increase the chance of bone
fractures
se, but making lifestyle changes is only part of o lead to dementia
o suppress nutrient absorptions
o trigger bacterial overgrowth
o stimulate build-up of toxins and
unwanted pathogens
Complications from PPIs are so severe that the
long-term use of these prescription drugs causes
Clostridium difficile (C. difficile), a life-
threatening bacterium that causes severe diarrhea
and colon inflammation.
PPIs stimulate a surplus of the gastric hormone,
which tells the stomach to produce more acid.
This overproduction causes cancer cells to grow,
thereby increasing your risk of developing
cancer. They also upset the creation of natural
hydrochloric acid, which we need in order to be
able to properly digest food. When we suffer
from such digestive ailments, we increase our
risk of infection and contracting food poisoning.
BIC|health
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 23
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reported three studies that underscore the dangers
of acid reflux drugs.
A study conducted by Shelly L. Gray, Pharm.D.,
of the University of Washington found that of the
161,806 women ages 50-79 studied for 8 years,
those taking PPIs had an increased risk of spine,
forearm, and wrist fractures, as well as more total
fractures.
Michael D. Howell, M.D., M.P.H., of Beth Israel
Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical
School and colleagues analysed the records of
more than 100,000 patients. Those who took a
PPI daily showed an estimated 74 percent
increase in infections due to C. difficile.
The link between C. difficile and PPIs was
confirmed by a study conducted by researchers at
Boston Medical Center. Results indicated that
patients taking a PPI had a 42 percent increased
risk of recurrence of C. difficile infection.
An Apple a Day Can Keep the Doctor Away
There is no need to invest in expensive and
harmful OTCs and prescription drugs. Just take a
look in your kitchen! Apples produce an alkaline,
or non-acidic, environment in the stomach so that
excess acids are counterbalanced and digestion
can function normally.
Eating an apple after meals and an apple before
bedtime treats the symptoms of acid reflux more
effectively and safely than OTC medications or
prescription drugs.
Apples help alleviate the symptoms, but, like the
more dangerous OTCs and prescription drugs,
they do not heal the esophageal lining. Unless
the cause is treated, the disease will persist,
leading to irreparable bodily harm. So you do
want to consult your doctor for a permanent and
fixed cure.
BIC|health
BIC
Lower your BP with
bananasFigure-conscious people often prefer keeping bananas off their plates, thinking that the fruit will add to their weight. However, this lot is indeed unaware of the advantages of having bananas.
pparently, these yellow/green-coloured fruits are of great use when it comes to maintaining a
balanced blood pressure. The fruit contains mineral potassium, which plays a vital role in Alowering blood pressure. Bananas are also rich in vitamin B6, which boosts memory power.
Bananas are a storehouse of energy, and on consuming the fruit one gets recharged physically within
minutes. This fruit can be of great help to people who are often seen popping revitalizing pills for
regaining lost energy. Bananas can be a good and healthy substitute to the energizing pills that can have
severe side-effects.
While most people think that bananas are rich in calories and can make one obese, the reality is far
from this. As per fitness experts, including this fruit in the daily diet can do wonders to one's health.
Banana consumption pacifies one's appetite, restricting one from eating more and more. This way, it
helps a person in dieting without starving.
Encouraging the consumption of bananas, strength and conditioning coach Arnav Sarkar states,"For
starters bananas offer healthy carbs which give energy to be more active and feel great.
“It is also high in the mineral potassium which helps to lower blood pressure. The fiber content of
bananas helps to control hunger much better for those who are trying to lose fat.
“And it has also been found to help students study better thanks to its supply of the vitamin B6. Some
more benefits of bananas - It has been found to help reduce depression due to its content of Tryptophan,
the iron content in it helps those with anemia and it also helps to reduce constipation due to its fiber
content."
Energize yourself with bananas
Bananas help shed flab
BIC
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 24
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Five Bad Foods that are Good for YouNot all foods that have been termed undesirable for health are actually so. Read on to know five foods that are otherwise good for one's physical wellbeing.
While most 'bad foods' might have a poor
reputation for running high on cholesterol and
fats, a closer look at their nutritional make-up
might reveal their latent health benefits too. Here
is a list of five such foods.
Popcorns and entertainment have been
inseparable since ages, but in the recent years
more and more health enthusiasts have decided
to call it quits with this popular snack simply to
avoid over-indulgence on unhealthy trans fats
and sodium. But, it is equally true that not all
popcorns are unhealthy.
The findings of a 2012 research presented at the
American Chemical Society's annual meeting
reveal that popcorns contain more healthful
antioxidant substances called 'polyphenols' than
fruits and vegetables. Surprised? Well, whether
or not the popcorns are healthy will depend on
the way you prepare them. If you are careful
enough not to add too much butter or salt when
you make them and stay away from ready-to-
make microwave popcorns, these could actually
be one of the healthiest snacks ever.
Cipullo says, "If you buy your own kernels or get
your own air popper, you can have a healthy
snack." Try topping popcorn with almonds,
which promote fullness.
When was the last time you had chocolates for
health? Never? Then we suggest it's time you
started doing so right away. Numerous studies
have shown that dark chocolate contains plentiful
antioxidants and also tend to be associated with
lower
blood
pressure
and a lower
risk of
heart
disease. A
2012
research
published
Popcorn
Chocolate
in the Archives of
Internal Medicine, in
fact, advocates the
consumption of this
delightful devil.
Although chocolate
consumption might
never help you lose weight, it does mean that you
shouldn't feel guilty about small indulgences.
Monica Bearden, a registered dietitian and author
of Chocolate, encourages eating about 20 grams of
this healthy passion a day. "It's so important to eat
those foods that you enjoy so you don't feel
deprived. Just don't overdo it,” Bearden says.
Sinfully delicious pastas can actually be great when
in your tummy. Just make sure that you eat the ones
made from whole grains. Although the refined
grains might have a larger shelf life, they are also
ripped off of their nutrients like vitamins and fiber
in the process.
Jessica Shapiro, a registered dietitian at Montefiore
Medical Center in New York believes, "You're
going to be
getting the B
vitamins and
the fiber from
the whole
grains."
Having whole
grains will also
help you meet the dietary guidelines, which
recommend that at least half of the grains you eat
each day are whole.
This one happens to have the worst reputation for
being detrimental to your heart and liver health,
contributing to depression, and being the root cause
for several cancers. But we bet you didn't know
that several alcohols, like red wines, contain
resveratrol, an antioxidant that could aid you in
your fight against several fatal diseases including
cancer and heart diseases. Not just that, other types
of alcohols such as beer, when consumed in
Pasta
Alcohol
moderation, are
they rate high on HDH or good cholesterol.
Experts opine that women can have as much as
one drink a day and men should not exceed two.
It is therefore right to conclude that it is not what
you drink but how much of it that decides the
impact of alcohol on your health. In fact, isn't it
ditto with every other thing in life?
For fear of unhealthy cholesterol levels in your
body, some doctors would advise you against
eating eggs, especially the yellow part. But the
fact remains that eggs are a leading source of
essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin A
and iron and are also one of the richest sources
of proteins. As per the findings of a 2011 study
conducted at the University of Alberta,
antioxida
nt
propertie
s found
in eggs
may help
prevent
cardiovas
cular disease and even some cancers.
Laura Cipullo, a New York-based registered
dietitian and certified diabetes educator, has been
good-mouthing the health benefits of eggs for a
long time. "If you're generally healthy, and don't
have high cholesterol, there's no need to only eat
egg-whites--or to avoid eggs altogether. My
suggestion is always to have one whole egg and
then add an egg white," Cipullo says. That way
you're getting the nutrient-rich yolk but not
overdoing the cholesterol. So, there is no reason
you should stay away from this yummy
breakfast essential anymore.
also great for your health since
Eggs
BIC
BIC|health
Several alcohols, like red wines, contain resveratrol, an antioxidant that could aid you in your fight against several fatal diseases including cancer and heart diseases. Not just that, other types of alcohols such as beer, when consumed in moderation, are also great for your health since they rate high on HDH or good
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 26
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Saree – An Integral Part of Being an Army WifeSaree, the five yard wonder, might be losing its charm in the civil circles, but when it comes to the army, we still hold this attire dear and almost indispensable.
e treasure them and consider them to be one of our wisest investments
ever. No matter how many we have, we can never get over with our Wpenchant for sarees.
The Indian saree is indeed a remarkable dress. In spite of being a five-and-half-
meter-long costume, the attire is capable of revealing a woman's beauty at just the
right places and just the right amount. This aspect of a saree in conjunction with
almost an endless variety of craftsmanship that the dress offers makes it the most
sought-after dress ever.
The army women seem to have woven their world around sarees, and here is a look
at the role this long piece of cloth plays in their lives.
While our civil counterparts seem to be too busy broadening their definition of
dressing formally, we still prefer sticking to sarees for all formal occasions, be it our
parties, ladies meets, coffee mornings, welfare meets or tea-outs. Chiffons,
georgettes, crepes, cottons, and silks, they all have a predetermined place in our lives
depending upon the occasion.
This almost-sacrosanct dress is also a great savior in times of uncertainty. Whenever
in doubt on what to wear to any occasion, you can always play it safe by adorning a
saree for the simple fact that draping this on one can never go wrong.
Thanks to our constantly changing addresses, we have access to an unparallel variety
of sarees. Every army wife's wardrobe has some kind of semblance with government
handloom stores, only we have the best workmanship from all states, right from
Kalamkaari from Kashmir to Kanjivaram down South and from a Sualkuchi silk
from the North East to Bandhani from the Western state of Gujarat.
With such an assortment of sarees to boast, it is not surprising that most army wives
are a kind of a walking Wikipedia on sarees.
Packing
After so much already
said about the love affair
of an army wife with her
collection of sarees, it is
but obvious that we treat
these prized possessions
with much care and caution. When it is time for us to bid adieu to a place and pack
our boxes, packing these wonderful pieces of art assumes the form of a ritual. And
why not; after all, each of them tends to be special in its own way. Every one of these
attires has a unique story to narrate and holds numerous memories and emotions. So
obsessed are we with our endless textile treasures that even those that tear and wear
out with time find a box when we are packing off.
A Sacrosanct Dress
Variety Offered
By Gunjan Mehra
A professional 'Pranic healer' who derives
immense pleasure from meditation,
Gunjan Mehra is a staunch believer in the
theory of Karma. She derives her inner peace from the numerous
social causes she's associated with. She is a passionate Kathak
dancer and an ace table-tennis player. Born to Maharashtrian
parents, she spent the formative years of her life in different nooks
and corners of the country learning different dialects and cultural
nuances. She is now married into a Punjabi household and has a
husband whose uniform is his religion. They are blessed with two
doting kids.
The Indian saree is indeed a remarkable
dress. In spite of being a five-and-half-
meter-long costume ,the attire is capable
of covering and at the same time revealing
a woman's beauty at just the right places
and just the right amount.
BIC
BIC|Columns
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 27
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Char Dham are mainly known as the four abodes of God in India: Puri in the East, Rameshwaram in the South, Dwarka in the West, and Badrinath in the North.
Badrinath
Dwarka
In the North Indian state of Uttarakhand, Badrinath is situated in the Garhwal Hills, on the banks of the Alaknanda River. The town lies between the Nar and Narayana mountain ranges and is shadowed by the Nilkantha peak (6,560m).
Badri means a berry that grew abundantly in the area, and nath means Lord. The legend has it that Shankara discovered an image of Lord Badrinarayan made of Saligram stone in Alaknanda river. He then enshrined it in a cave near the Tapt Kund hot springs, and in the sixteenth century, the king of Garhwal moved the murti to the present temple.
Dwarka city lies in the westernmost part of India, in the Gujarat state. The city gets its name from the Sanskrit word dvar, meaning door or gate. It is quite close to where the Gomti River merges into the Gulf of Kutch and was the dwelling place of Lord Krishna.
According to the legend, due to the damage and destruction by the sea, Dwaraka has submerged six times, and the modern-day Dwarka is the city
ththat has been rebuilt the 7 time.
Jagannath Puri
Rameshwaram
Puri is located in the East in the state of Orissa, India. One of the oldest cities in the eastern part of the country, Puri is situated on the coast
of Bay of Bengal.
The main deity of the temple is Shri Krishna, celebrated as Lord Jagannatha. It is the only shrine in India where goddess Subhadra, sister of Lord Krishna, is worshipped along with her brothers, Lord Jagannatha and Lord Balabhadra.
The main temple here is around 1000 years old and constructed by Raja Tritiya Ananga Bhima Deva and Raja ChodaGanga Deva. Puri is the site of the Govardhana Matha, one of the four cardinal institutions or Mathas established by Adi Shankaracharya.
Rameswaram lies in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu in the South. It is situated in the Gulf of Mannar at the very tip of the Indian peninsula. According to legends, this is the place from where Lord Rama built a bridge, Ram Setu, to Lanka.
The Ramanatha Swamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, occupies a major area of
Rameshwaram. The temple is believed to have been consecrated by Shri Rama.
Rameshwaram is significant for the Hindus as a pilgrimage to Benaras is incomplete without a pilgrimage to Rameswaram. The presiding deity here is in the form of a linga with the name Sri Ramanatha Swamy. It also is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas.
Main Hindu Pilgrimages in India (other than Char Dham)
Kumbh Mela
The Kumbh Mela is one of the holiest of
Hindu pilgrimages that is held every four
years; the location is rotated among
Allahabad, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain.
Old Holy Cities as Per Puranic Texts
· Varanasi, formerly known as Kashi
· Allahabad, formerly known as
Prayag
· Haridwar-Rishikesh
· Mathura-Vrindavan
· Ayodhya
Major Temple Cities
· Puri, which hosts a major Vaishnava
Jagannath temple and Rath Yatra
celebration
· Katra, home to the Vaishno Devi
temple
(Three comparatively recent temples of fame
and huge pilgrimage are Shirdi, home to Sai
Baba of Shirdi; Tirumala - Tirupati, home to
the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple; and
Sabarimala, where Swami Ayyappan is
worshipped.)
According to the legend ,due to the damage and destruction by the sea ,Dwaraka has submerged six times , and the modern-day Dwarka is the city that has been
threbuilt the 7 time.
BIC
BIC|Religion
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 28
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he spoke to me but I didn't listen. There was such
a racket going on, my attention remained on the
old faces I have loved, and then he disappeared.”
The priest said: “I feel humbled by your
confession and must admit – I believed I would
be the one singled out by the saint as the most
spiritually advanced, due to my vast knowledge
of the holy scriptures and my dedication to God.
The saint also appeared to me briefly in a dream.
I was busy reciting the scriptures, he said
something, but I also could not hear his words,
because my own voice was too loud and it
drowned out the voice of the saint. Then he
vanished.”
The elder mumbled under his breath, “Divinity
has a human face!” He paused for a few
moments, and then regained his train of thought.
“I also dreamed about the saint," The elder
sighed: "Such sweetness, such beauty! Smiling,
smiling, smiling, his pure love. He spoke to me also
but I was unable to hear him, because I was
complaining about my legs and back and how they
ached from years of prayer, and how I worried
about the weight I had lost from fasting. When I
became aware again, he was gone. I never believed
the saint would choose me as the most spiritually
advanced. The sad truth is I was tired and hungry
and sick of the arguments. I agreed on the two
questions only to put an end to our discussion.”
The priest asked earnestly: “What do these dreams
mean?”
The hermit answered: “The saint has shown us
something very precious. Dive deep my friend and
find the pearls! They will have more value if you
bring them up yourself.”
The elder lamented in a soft voice: “Yes, I will
think long on this dream, and his radiance will stay
with me. This saint has affected me deeply. If only
my attention had remained on him.”
The proposed time to meet with the Saint arrived.
Together, the three men stood before the Saint, their
heads bowed low. They each touched the feet of the
Saint with great reverence.
The priest broke the silence: “Blessed One, we
have realized the futility of our second question,
please address the real problem at hand, and give
us the remedy too, we wish your words to profit
all who listen.”
The saint's face glowed with joy and delight; he
touched each man firmly on the head.
The priest added: “Now we are ready to listen!”
In simple language the saint explained to the
people about the illusory character of Maya. He
emphasized how imperative it is to take the
Guru's teachings and to practice them in daily
life; he described how many clever ones had
remained in delusion.
Before the saint left the village, he stood before
the three men once more and spoke to them
tenderly with all love: "The way out of suffering
is through faith and devotion. Just give your
heart, my dear!” BIC
BIC|Religion
A Question to PonderThe recurring question that has bothered the ignorant for centuries is “Why was the mighty Ravan unable to take Sita into his golden palace and marry Her?”
avan represents the jeev or the praan.
Lanka symbolises the human body. Sita Rma depicts bhakti (devotion) and shanti
(peace & harmony) – among many other forms.
God (Prabhu) represents the ultimate peace
(Shanti Niketa – eternal bliss) – among many
other symbols.
A person may be able to collect many resources
and tools (sukh ke saadhan) to provide him peace
and happiness. Some of these resources are
material things like money, cars, houses and
multiple household implements like fridge,
washing machine, microwave, dishwasher,
kingsize bed, sealy posturepedic, mattress, etc.
Despite all these elements to provide us with
external peace and worldly pleasures, we are never
Religious Symbols and Their Importance in HinduismMost of us Hindus are living our religion without even understanding the four basic symbols of Hinduism. Here's the
much-needed low-down on all four of them: Aum, Swastika, Bindi, and Yajnopavita, the sacred thread.
The Aum Symbol
Aum or Om (in devanagari) is one of the most
sacred symbols in
Hinduism. Hindus
consider Aum to be
the universal name
of the Lord, and
believe that it
encompasses all of
creation. It is made
up of the letters A (as
in "around"), U (as
in "put") and M (as
in "mum"). The
sound emerging from the vocal cords starts from
the base of the throat as "A." With the coming
together of the lips, "U" is formed and when the
lips are closed, all sounds end in "M".
It is a symbol of the Trimurti ('three forms' in
English). A union of three gods consisting of
Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver), and
Shiva (the destroyer). The three letters also
symbolize the three states (waking, dreaming,
and deep sleep), the three Vedas (Rig, Yajur, and
Sama), and the three worlds (earth, atmosphere,
and heaven). The Mandukya Upanishad is
entirely devoted to the explanation of the
syllable.
Hindus believe that the entire essence of the
Vedas (ancient Indian scriptures) is enshrined in
the word Aum. The belief that the Lord started
creating the world after chanting Aum gives this
religious symbol a fundamental relevance to the
Hindu view of creation. Hence, its sound is
considered to create an auspicious beginning for
any task that one may undertake.
Some devotees see similarities between the shape
of Ganesha's body in iconography and the shape
of Aum in the Devanagari. The upper curve is the
head and the lower large one, the stomach; the
side one, the trunk; and the semi-circular mark
with the dot, the sweetmeat ball (modaka) in
Lord Ganesha's hand. For Hindus, Aum is seen as
a fundamental component of the physical and
metaphysical tenets of Hinduism - the means and
the goal of life, the world and the truth behind it,
the material and the sacred, and all form and the
formless.
Aum is one of the most chanted sound symbols in
India. It is believed to have a profound effect on the
body and mind of the one who chants. It is placed
at the beginning of most Hindu texts as a sacred
exclamation to be uttered at the beginning and the
end of a reading of the Vedas or as the beginning to
any prayer or mantra.
It may also be used as a greeting - Aum or Hari
Aum. Its form is worshiped, contemplated upon, or
used as an auspicious sign within the Hindu
religion. Today, in all Hindu art and all over India
and Nepal, Aum can be seen virtually everywhere, a
common sign for Hinduism and its philosophy and
theology.
The Swastika (from Sanskrit svástika) is an
equilateral cross with its arms bent at right angles,
in either right-facing form or its mirrored left-
facing form. Archaeological evidences of swastika-
shaped ornaments have been dated to the Neolithic
period and were first found in the Indus Valley
Civilization of the Indian Subcontinent. It occurs
today mainly in the modern day culture of northern
India, sometimes as a geometrical motif and
sometimes as a religious symbol.
In Hinduism, the two symbols represent the two
forms of the creator god Brahma: facing right, it
represents the evolution of the universe
(Devanagari: Pravritti); facing left, it represents the
involution of the universe
(Devanagari: Nivritti). It
is also seen as pointing in
all four directions (north,
east, south and west) and
thus signifies a grounded
stability. Its use as a Sun
symbol can first be seen
in its representation of the god Surya. The swastika
is considered extremely holy and auspicious by all
Hindus and is regularly used to decorate items
related to Hindu culture. It is used in all Hindu
yantras and religious designs. Throughout the
subcontinent of India, it can be seen on the sides of
temples, religious scriptures, gift items, and
letterheads. The Hindu deity Ganesh is often shown
The Swastika Symbol
sitting on a lotus flower on a bed of swastikas.
A bindi (from Sanskrit bindu, meaning a drop, a
small particle, or a dot) is a forehead decoration
worn in South Asia (particularly India) and
Southeast Asia. Traditionally, it is a dot of red
colour of sandalwood paste, turmeric or
vermilion applied in the center of the forehead
close to the eyebrows, but it can also consist of a
sign or piece of jewelry worn in this area. The
tilak (Sanskrit: Tilaka means a “mark”) is also
used by men to show religious affiliation or by
both sexes after a puja ritual to invoke religious
feelings.
Nowadays, bindis are worn throughout South
Asia (India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and
Pakistan) by women and girls, and no longer
signify age, marital status, religious background
or ethnic affiliation. The bindi has become a
decorative item and is no longer restricted in
colour or shape. Self-adhesive bindis (also
known as sticker bindis) are available, usually
made of felt or thin metal and adhesive on the
other side. These are simple to apply, disposable
substitutes for older tilak bindis. Sticker bindis
come in many colors, designs, materials, and
sizes. Fancier sticker bindis are decorated with
sequins, glass beads, or rhinestones.
Outside South Asia, bindis are sometimes worn
by women of Indian origin. Some Western
women who have converted to Hinduism, such
as in the Hare Krishna movement, also wear
bindis. Sometimes they are worn as a style
statement. International celebrities such as Gwen
Stefani, Shakira, Madonna, Nina Hagen, Nelly
The Bindi Symbol
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placed) is said to be the sixth chakra, ajna, the seat
of "concealed wisdom". According to followers of
Hinduism, this chakra is the exit point for kundalini
energy. The bindi is said to retain energy and
strengthen concentration. It is also said to protect
against demons or bad luck.
In addition to the bindi, a vermilion mark in the
parting of the hair just above the forehead is worn
by married women as a symbol of their married
status. During North Indian marriage ceremonies,
the groom applies sindoor on the parting in the
bride's hair.
The Yajnopavita (sacred thread) is given to male
Hindus to signify their spiritual awakening and
The Sacred Thread
acceptance as religious students. The ritual is
usually reserved for males from the brahman
(priest) caste, the kshatriya (military or ruler)
caste and the vaisya (merchant-traders) caste.
The scared thread is actually three intertwined
threads symbolic of the Trimurti. The threads
also represents three of the Vedas texts- the
Rigveda, Samaveda and Yagurveda. The
Artharaveda is not included. The knot in the
middle of the sacred thread represents the eternal
and divine force of all creation (Brahman). The
thread is never meant to be taken off and a
devout Hindu will bathe or swim with it on. It is
hung diagonally from the left shoulder to the
waist. It is placed over the right shoulder during
funerals. The material of the thread may be
cotton or wool not hemp. The person undergoing
the ritual is referred to as "twice born". The
biological birth is his first birth and after the
sacred thread is placed, the symbolical
acceptance of a spiritual teacher as father and the
Vedas as mother signifies a second birth. The
initiate will shave his head and wear new clothes,
and during the ceremony a priest or guru will
recite the Gayatri mantra. At the close of the
ceremony a traditional dakshina (gift) is given to
his teacher.
Hinduism BrieflyH i n d u i s m i s a p o l y t h e i s t anthropomorphic religion with a highly ritualized form of worship. The canon of books and poems that define Hinduism were written in Sanskrit and are of ancient origin. They range from epics about the lives and loves of the Gods, philosophical treatises on metaphysical questions, and law books.The Hindu religion has absorbed practices and ideas from other religions and in turn has provided the roots of Jainism, Sikhism, and Buddhism. In the West, Hinduism has been propagated through the H a r e K r i s h n a m o v e m e n t . Hinduism is the majority religion of India, Nepal, and Mauritius and a significant minority religion in Fiji, Suriname, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Malaysia, and Singapore.
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Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 32
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Hindustani Classical Music Is Passé for Indian Youth… Or Is It? Does the Facebook generation really despise music with a Hindustani classical touch? Gunjan Mehra digs in.
Music and food are quite alike. Whether or not a
specific type is liked depends a lot on how it is
presented. The teens of today might know pretty
well that they like to listen to music they can
groove to. They might even have access to more
forms of music than we did back in our
childhood. But can they claim with certainty that
classical music is not for them?
Dipen Roy, a classically trained vocalist and
trainer in his early 60s opines, "It would be more
like asking somebody who has spent all his life
in the lanes of Bhatinda having Chole-bhature, if
he enjoyed Continental food? Today's teens are
unfortunately so opinionated and misinformed
and their choices are bound to reflect the same.
We, as kids were raised listening to Swaras and
Raagas
emerging
from
them, so
developin
g a
natural
affinity
towards
such music was obvious. But today's kids have
access to Bollywood music, Pop and Rock.
Hindustani Classical doesn't even remotely appear
on their list," he adds.
In a typical classical concert, one particular Raaga
can go on for hours, and that is perhaps why today's
kids call such performances 'boring'.
Prakhya Dubey, a class 10 student and an ardent
Bollywood music lover says, "Until I attended a
Sitar and Tabla concert about 4 months back, even I
believed that classical music was boring and not for
me. Now however, I think it does wonders to my
ears and senses and happens to be a great mood
enhancer too."
Simran Tandon, a 20-year-old basketball player,
however, believes she cannot stand Hindustani
classical, "Not only is the music Greek and Latin to
Indian Classical Music
The origins of Indian classical music can be found
in the Vedas, which are the oldest scriptures in the
Hindu tradition. Indian classical music has also
been significantly influenced by Indian folk music
and Persian music. The Samaveda, one of the four
Vedas, describes music at length. The Samaveda
was derived from the Rigveda so that its hymns
could be sung as Samagana; this style evolved into
jatis and eventually into ragas. Bharat's
Natyashastra was the first treatise laying down
principles of dance, music, and drama.
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BIC|arts and culture
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 33
me, but I somehow think I can never identify
with the slow pace at which it picks up and
continues for hours at the same boring rhythm.
Hard rock is what I enjoy the most. I also enjoy
listening to trance." Her friends Deepak Joshi and
Sapna Negi nod in agreement. But ask this lot if
they care for songs like 'Mora Piya' from the
movie 'Raajneeti', 'Peelun' from 'Once Upon a
Time in Mumbai' and numerous other Sufi songs
featuring in our very own Bollywood movies and
all of them nod a slow yes in agreement,
realizing pretty well that all these songs have a
strong classical base. Perhaps they do have a
taste and hunger for Hindustani classical but
haven't yet had the right opportunity to quench it.
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What's so magical about Taj Mahal that makes lovers from all over the world flock to it? Mohita Saxena explores the history behind the world's unparalleled and inimitable monument of love from Mughal India.
It wouldn't be wrong to say that the architectural
wonder Taj Mahal, which stands at the shore of
river Yamuna in the ancient city of Agra, has
since times immemorial played a monumental
role in putting India on the world map.
Renowned world over for its unparalleled beauty
and architectural finesse, the Taj is included in
the coveted Seven Wonders of the World.
Apart from the architectural glory and grandeur
that the Taj is bestowed with, it is the immortal
love story of its creator, the Mughal emperor
Shah Jahan, and his wife Mumtaz Mahal that
attracts all and sundry. Never before had the
world seen such an impeccable and ostentatious
display of love until the Taj happened to the
world. As the legend goes, Shah Jahan's beloved
wife, Mumtaz Mahal, while on her death bed,
extracted a promise from him to build a
monument or mausoleum in her memory and
visit it at least once every year on her death
anniversary. So intense was Shah Jahan's grief
that he decided to fulfill his promise in the most
ambitious and passionate manner. Without
wasting any time, Shah Jahan delegated this
building project to his entrusted board of architects
that included the world-renowned architects of the
time, the likes of Abkul Karim Ma'mur Khan and
Ustad Ahmad Lahauri.
It took almost 20 years and about 20,000 skilled
artisans and craftsmen who were invited from
different nook-and-corners of the world to
complete this architectural wonder, which
eventually came to be recognized as "the jewel of
Muslim art in India and one of the universally
admired masterpieces of the world's heritage."
Even after more than 300 years of its existence, the
eternally beautiful and inimitable Taj sits strong as
the world looks upon it as
an epitome of love.
Every year, almost 3-4
million admirers visit Taj
Mahal and find
themselves at a loss of
words beholding the
architectural grandeur
and marvelling at the
emotional piety with which
the monument was created.
Lovers from all over the world regard it as a place
of worship and, to immortalise their love, fancy a
pilgrimage to this finest example of the Mughal
architecture. In fact, almost all the famous couples
of the world, from Poland's Prime Minister Donald
Tusk and wife Malgrozata, British actor Ben
Kingsley and wife Daniela, England's Prince
Charles and Lady Diana, and former Pakistani
President General Pervez Musharraf and wife
Even after more than 300 years of its existence, the inevitably
beautiful and inimitable Taj sits strong as the world looks upon it
as an epitome of love. Every year, almost 3-4 million admirers
visit Taj Mahal and find themselves at a loss of words looking at
the insurmountable architectural grandeur and emotional piety
with which the monument was created.
Begum Sehba have visited the Taj, imbibing the
'love-is-in-the-air' aura of this architectural
beauty.
So the next time you plan to take some time off
with your loved ones, do take a trip down to
Agra to visit Taj Mahal and leave the rest to its
unfathomable aura.
Interesting Facts about Taj Mahal
· The Taj Mahal seems to be changing
its colors depending on what time of the day
it is being seen and whether or not there is
moon at night. Some people believe that this
changing pattern of colors depicts the varying
moods of a woman.
· 99 names of Allah are inscribed
calligraphically on the sides of Mumtaz
Mahal's tomb.
· Shah Jahan fell in love with the
beautiful Arjumand Bano Begum and
married her, making her his third wife. She
was christened by him as Mumtaz Mahal,
meaning the “Chosen One Of The Palace” or
“Jewel of the Palace”.
· Many jewels and semi-precious gems
adorn the wall of the Taj Mahal. Over the
years and through a number of wars and
pillages these jewels have been removed, but
their impressions can still be seen.
· Different types of marbles used in the
construction of Taj Mahal were brought over
from different regions and countries
including Rajasthan, Punjab, China, Tibet,
Afghanistan, Srilanka, and Arabia.
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Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 35
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If you plan to visit Goa in India, here's what you should shy away from. By Gauri Retarekar.
omebody once said, “The kind of a
vacation you have will primarily depend Supon not whether you know what exactly
to do but more so on what not to waste your time
in doing.” Every time you are on a holiday,
chances are that you will end up wasting a lot of
time and money on useless pursuits. So if you are
visiting Goa in India, here are some of the things
you are better off not doing.
Ignore Bagga and Calangute
Mention Goa and the first thing that people
suggest is visiting Bagga and Calangute beaches.
But the truth is Goa offers a lot more than just
these two beaches. The
true spirit and colors of
Goa are found in the
beaches of the South
Goa like Utorda,
Majorda, and Palolim.
North Goa too has a
few good beaches, but
Bagga and Calangute
are definitely not them. These could only be a
paradise for a shopping spree, but nothing more
than that. Try Anjuna, Vagatore or Morjim
instead.
Getting a permanent tattoo is something most of
the tourists look forward to while scheduling a
trip to Goa. But, getting a local tattoo-wala in
Goa is a bad idea. A proper tattoo parlor happens
to be the only safe place where you can get one
done without fear of being infected. So why
waste your time getting one from Goa when such
parlors have mushroomed in cities all over the
Getting Inked
Ever heard of San Juao? It is the most fun-filled festival celebrated in Goa during July/August. The festival marks the beginning of rains and so involves soaking in rains, eating and drinking local delicacies, and of course, dancing all through the three-day long celebration.
Gangtok Zoo – a Must Watch
The most beautiful part of Gangtok is
perhaps its natural zoo spread over a large
area on a hill with plenty of space for each
of its inhabitants. Usually, a zoo is a
confined space for the animals, but the
sloth bears, snow leopards, pandas, civets,
and wolves living here still have plenty of
space to walk around in their large, close-
to-nature enclosures. Sometimes these
enclosures are so large that you won't be
able to see the animals without waiting for
them to emerge from the woods. A family
of pandas, a family of bears, a bunch of
civets, and even a snow leopard couple are
living here. The paths that connect these
enclosures go through thick woods and
bamboo groves running for several
kilometers. The cool weather of Gangtok
has allowed a large number of flowers to
bloom along these paths, forming bright
yellow and purple dots in the woods. It is a
zoo unlike any other in India.
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 36
BIC|TRAVEL
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Brisvaani Aid Foundation's Donation Campaign in FijiBrisvaani Aid Foundation (BAF) kicked off its fund-raising campaign for Fiji flood victims in April, 2012. This photo feature recounts their entire journey to Fiji–right from setting off on it to finishing it off with emotional goodbyes.
BAF members before boarding the Air Pacific flight
Day 1: To distribute food items among the Fiji flood ictims, the BAF members left for Fiji on Friday, April 13, 2012 on an Air Pacific flight. The Fijian airline was kind enough an organisation to offer discounted fares. Here's the photo of the BAF members before boarding the Air Pacific flight.
Day 3
Day 2: The BAF members met the Commissioner Western Manager Operations DISMAC, Jiuta Waqavonovono, for his assistance.
That's how high the water went
BAF members meeting with Manager Operations DISMAC Jiuta Waqavonovono
Packing of food supplies in full swing
Day 4: The BAF team continued its ration distribution on the fourth day of their food distribution campaign by visiting the affected Ba areas. In Tonge village, 14 homes were under water almost to roof-height.
Chinese company building a new bridge to replace the fallen oneFlood victims in Ba Van full of food
Relief efforts in Tonge village Local kids at Tonge village
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 38
Distribution went on till late at night, every night
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Day 5: The relief efforts in the affected Ba areas by the BAF team continued on the fifth day of their campaign.
Ba Eatatoko
A happy local man with food supplies
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 39
Day 6: Day 6 of the BAF’s food distribution campaign saw the charity organisation members going to the remote parts of the island nation to distribute food supplies. The BAF members also interviewed the flood victims, when they could find some time for it.
One of the founding members of BAF, Jatish Puran, who became a little nostalgic at the end of the hard day's work said: “We are extremely tired and cooked to perfection in this heat. Maybe we have two more days of distribution. But in the last five days of our food distribution work, we have reached very remote areas where no outsider seems to have gone before. It's amazing to note how little I had seen the country of my birth.”
18 packs delivered in Navakai village
Decisions, decisions, decisions
Water went up to the roof’s height in houses like the above in Waqadra
A new day begins
A local resident Shabina interviewed by the BAF team member Mr Jatish
Another local resident interviewed by Mr Jatish Puran
Kids in Ba posing with distribution team Ba team topping up food ration under the leadership of Sgt. Lutu (centre), the main co-ordinator of Ba distribution
Rice being dried. Note that the ladder is still not removed. People are afraid that the water can strike again.
Distribution team in Nadi
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Day 8: April 20, 2012: Brisvaani Aid Foundation's (BAF) food distribution for flood victims in Fiji consummated on April 20 with thank-yous and goodbyes. The BAF members said words of thanks to the DISMAC team and its operations manager, Jiuta Waqavonovono. They also met Commissioner Western Joeli Cawaki again before leaving for home in Australia.
See the whole coverage of BAF's donation campaign on Brisvaani.com: http://brisvaani.com/category/fiji-floods-2/bafs-donation-campaign-in-fiji
Day 7: On Day 7, the Brisvaani Aid Foundation (BAF) continued their distribution work in the Nadi area. The distribution work started with loading at the crack of dawn and went on till late at night. The army personnel helped the BAF members all through this while. The local folks were equally generous with their teas, snacks, and blessings. The image gallery below has a photo where the local folks are serving BAF and distribution staff teas and snacks.
Long line-up of Fiji folks waiting for their food
Distribution team
Local people serving tea to BAF and the distribution team members
Loading truck at 6pm for night drop as BAF runs out of time; they still have 1000 packs left
Two lovely local girls while talking to BAF members
BAF donated to Fijian schools as well Final day emotional goodbyes with Commissioner Western Joeli Cawaki
BAF members with the DISMAC team and operations manager Jiuta Waqavonovono, just before bidding their byes
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 40
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hen the Indians sing their national anthem on Republic Day, they are
reminiscent of its composer Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore for giving Wapt expression to their national aspirations. The song reflects India's
rich cultural heritage and its firm conviction in democratic ideals. In Bengal,
Tagore is worshipped and his songs are sung religiously in every household.
Besides poems, Tagore also wrote novels, short stories, and essays, which are
widely read even today. But Tagore has failed to receive international acclaim as a
poet. This is ironical given the fact that in 1920s and 1930s his writings generated
great excitement internationally. Gitanjali, a collection of his poems, became so
popular after its English
translation was published in
London that Tagore was
awarded the Nobel Prize in
Literature in 1913. But he is not
much read now in Europe and
America.
Though Tagore is regarded as a multi-faceted contemporary thinker in Bangladesh
and India, his image, especially in Europe and America, is that of a remote
spiritualist. In fact, Tagore's admirers like poets W.B. Yeats and Ezra Pound
projected him as a mystic in a bid to 'sell' him and his poems to European
audiences. This robbed much of Tagore's appeal in Europe in the later years.
Tagore the Mystic
There is no denying the fact that most of Tagore's poems have an
undercurrent of mysticism. But Tagore's mysticism can best be
understood with an appreciation of his philosophy of life. Unlike
other mystic poets, Tagore's philosophy is entrenched in the reality
of life. In one of his poems, he says: No, I will never shut the doors
of my senses. The delights of sight and hearing and touch will bear
thy delight. He does not believe in renunciation and escapism. To
highlight his conviction, he says: “Deliverance is not for me in
renunciation. I feel the embrace of freedom in a thousand bonds of
delight.” Yeats agrees: “He is the first amongst our saints who has
not refused to live.”
That Tagore is not merely a mystic poet may be understood in the
light of his convictions which reflect his innate humanity. In one of
the poems in Gitanjali, he writes:
Leave this chanting and singing and telling of beads! Whom dost
thou worship in this lonely dark corner of a temple with doors all
shut?
Open thine eyes and see thy God is not before thee!
He is there where the tiller is tilling the hard ground and where
the pathmaker is breaking stones.
He is with them in sun and in shower, and his garment is covered
with dust.
When one decodes and interprets Tagore's devotional poems in
conjunction with his philosophy of life, one gets a better image of
Tagore as a poet. Then it becomes clear that the ambiguity
discernible in most of his poems is essential to appeal to readers
irrespective of their beliefs. A true work of art carries an element
of ambiguity for it to have a universal appeal. This becomes
applicable particularly to his many poems which tie images of
Tagore the Humanist
Unlike other mystic poets, Tagore's philosophy is entrenched in the reality of life. In one of his poems he says: No, I will never shut the doors of my senses. The delights of sight and hearing and touch will bear thy delight. He does not believe in renunciation and escapism.
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Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 41
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mind cannot think rationally. His attitude towards
politics and culture, nationalism and
internationalism, and tradition and
modernity is best expressed as a poem
in Gitanjali:
Where the mind is without fear and
the head is held high;
Where knowledge is free;
Where the world has not been broken
up into fragments
By narrow domestic walls;
Where words come out from the depth of truth;
Where tireless striving stretches its arms
towards perfection;
Where the clear stream of reason has not lost
its way
Into the dreary desert sand of dead habit;
Where the mind is led forward by thee
Into ever-widening thought and action;
Into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my
country awake
In a world tormented by fear of death and
destruction, Tagore's poems bring a message of
optimism and understanding. To the ignorant, his
poems teach the power of knowledge; to the
poor, he assures the strength of one's will to
succeed; to the decrepit, he brings the message of
soul's immortality; and to the oppressed, he asks
to move on even if one is all alone. A lover will
find in Tagore's poems sublime words to share
with his beloved. A nature worshipper can
experience empyreal delights in Tagore's poetry.
The love of God finds expression through his
poems. His poems are an inexhaustible reservoir
of love and music transcending all barriers of
space and time to quench the thirst of human
spirit.
His Relevance Today
The ambiguity discernible in most of his poems is essential to appeal to readers irrespective of their beliefs. A true work of art carries an element of ambiguity for it to have a universal appeal.
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Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 42
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ou need to dump him. Especially when you have YPeter chasing after you,' advocated Linda who rather enjoyed giving these advisements to Rose. 'I wish I had a suitor like Peter. My heart bleeds when I see him...' Rose heaved a big sigh, 'I know what you mean, Linda. I do like him a lot but... I need my space.' Rose was sitting on the window sill looking out towards the sky with, to use a cliché, a faraway look. Linda, as usual, was sitting by the fireplace. ‘I wonder why you don't need your space when Jack is around,' taunted Linda. Visibly upset, Rose got up from the sill, 'Please Linda, I am not in a mood to listen to all this.' ‘And you are always in a mood to not only listen to all this but take all that abuse from him,' Linda shot back mockingly. Linda was one of those sedentary sorts who always appear content with whatever little activity they have in their lives. Though Linda was leading an extremely quiet life, she had a social circle bigger than Rose's, and in that circle she had come to be regarded as a pillar of strength. ‘How did that happen anyway?' continued Linda, 'It's curious I never asked you that. You and Jack? It's like the unlikeliest match.' ‘I don't know, Linda. I just felt so drawn towards him. I met him when he was still going out with Kate; at the New Year's party at Mandy's. I had heard stories about him being a user and stuff, but I wasn't concerned with all that. So, I was standing with Kim and the rest of the girls…'
At Mandy's New Year bash, Rose and her friends are chatting. 'Hey, where's Kate?' 'With her latest catch, over there.' Everybody looks towards Kate and Jack. Still in his early thirties, Jack is clean-shaved, handsome man of more than average height. There is an aura of masculinity about Jack that is unmistakable. His well-toned athletic upper body is covered in black leather Jacket, and blue Wrangler wraps tightly around the contours of his equally athletic legs. 'Oh him. He's no catch, believe me. I reckon after he's done with her, she won't be able to recover for years. Serves her good; I never liked that bitch.' The feeling of rivalry was obvious in Silvia's voice. She was almost happy to see her with Jack. It was as if she knew her end was nearing. 'Hey Kate, over here!' Mandy yells to Kate, and Kate looks towards the girls, waves, and comes over with Jack. 'Hey… I never knew everyone was gonna be here. Anyway, this is Jack...' Somebody calls Kate so she has to leave. 'Excuse me girls,' says Kate and turns to Jack, 'be back with you in a flash, Jack.' 'Not a worry, kitty cat. Take your time. So girls,' Jack turns towards the girls, 'Keeping the boys happy?' Jack knew nearly the whole pack. He had bedded a couple of them. 'I heard about your fight with those goons last week,' Caroline comments. She was one of those girls Jack liked to keep as bait in order to get bigger fishes. 'Yeah! This world is no place for a nice guy like me.' Jack apparently sees Rose and instantly turns towards her, 'Who's this beauty?' 'This is Rose,' informs Caroline. 'I don't suspect. Looks like a Rose. Freshly blossomed,' says Jack and then addresses Rose, 'Jack Thorn… is my name. Anytime you like me…' Jack takes Rose's hand, with his eyes never leaving hers, doesn't ask for it and kisses it, '…to show you a good time, consider me your servant.'
- 2 - With memories of that night still fresh in her mind, it
took quite an effort for Rose to come out of her reverie. The dusk had started to engulf the world, and Rose could see the red winter sun going down to the sea. She was sitting on the sill again. 'The party ended and I came back. I couldn't sleep that night and kept thinking of Jack and how his piercing eyes followed me wherever I went. I had never been gazed at the way he did that night. There was unmistakable lust in his eyes, but not the ordinary lust you see in most guys' eyes. It was like… for him there was nobody else in the entire world. Not even Kate. I could feel that in spite of physically being with Kate, he wasn't with her.' 'He sounds to me as someone extremely lusty. Someone who would use, abuse, and leave innocent girls like y...,' snarled Linda. 'He's not all that bad, Linda,' Rose cut in irritably. 'You make him out to be this monster that he's so not. Caroline was telling me he picked up that fight with those goons because they were being mean to some young fellow and teasing his girlfriend.' 'I don't say there's no good at all in Jack. I also heard about him patronizing some poor people living near his apartment. So he does help weak and helpless people. But that aside, it all boils down to one thing. Does he treat you good? And do you think Peter is not capable of doing those things? I think Peter is capable of infinitely better deeds than Jack…' The sound of someone entering the front door interrupted them. 'Did someone just come in? Jack?' The anticipation of seeing Jack always stirred something up in Rose. Peter entered the room instead, 'Hey girls.' 'Oh! Peter…' said Rose with disappointment so obvious in her voice even a six-year-old couldn't miss it. 'I forgot to tell you, Rose. I was expecting Peter here,' informed Linda. 'My car is with the mechanics and Peter, chivalrous that he is, has come to pick me up.' 'Yes! Always there for damsels in distress,' confirmed Peter. 'Rose is in even greater distress, Peter. You should help her out as well,' said Linda sarcastically. 'She only needs to say it once, Linda. Anything for her. Heck, I'll even let them put needles in me for her. And you know how I hate needles.' He turned to Rose, 'what is it, Rose?' 'I don't know what she means by that, Peter,' said Rose, obviously annoyed with her bosom friend. 'You know what!' Linda looked Rose square in the eye. 'Oh Linda, come off it,' said Rose impatiently. 'Am I missing something?' Peter chipped in. By this time he'd become curious enough to. 'Nothing Peter, she's behaving curious this evening,' said Rose. 'Let's leave, Peter. She's very touchy on that topic,' muttered Linda, grabbing Peter's arm as a mother would her child's. 'What topic?' 'See you, Peter,' smiled Rose, all too glad to have Linda off her chest finally. But Peter wanted more… more of Rose. His Rose. 'Umm… sometimes I get confused, Rose,' said Peter, gesticulating to excuse his arm off from Linda. 'What about?' 'Is it your smile or is it your laugh?' 'I don't get it.' 'Which one of these two is better? You look gorgeous when you smile. And when you laugh, it's a feast to my eyes and ears. It's like some musician is playing his best melody by the mountain spring with flowers all around.' Rose laughed even louder, 'Thanks for the complement, Peter.' Peter and Linda leave for the door. Peter stared at Rose lovingly, and Rose, like was customary of her, maintained her gaze and then lowered eyes. 'What is it, Linda? That topic…'
- 3 -Peter was right. Nature had bestowed Rose with
boundless beauty. Her full-bodied rosy lips concealed perfectly lined teeth that were a marvel to watch when she laughed. It was like only a flimsy pink layer was holding the gush of blood. If lips had a life of their own, Rose's lips would appear scared. As if they were afraid to go out, to try out new things. As if they were trying to hide themselves, so that nobody hurt them. Many a times Rose's smile took Peter's breathe away. There was something in that smile that endeared Rose to Peter. Rose was an innocent girl, and her face did absolutely nothing to hide the fact. If anything, it only enforced her innocence and laid bare her vulnerability to the observers. And she was never more innocent looking than when she was smiling. When Peter paid her sincere complements, Rose's smile made her rosy cheek blush. Her skin wore a perfectly tanned golden hue that was a fit match for her golden blonde hair. It was probably her open hair seen at sundown that prompted Peter to remark that her face was 'like moon shining through dark yellow clouds in the twilight'. And the moon had eyes the color of blue sea. If her face oozed innocence, her eyes made her look even more vulnerable and helpless, like an unsuspecting baby. It was not so much as that she had big eyes but the fact that they were covered by long eye lashes and that she had bigger pupils that she elicited unsolicited attraction from those looking in her eyes. Her pupils didn't contract much, due perhaps to her long eyelashes foreshadowing them, so that when she looked at people with expectant eyes she gave the impression of a baby looking at an adult. Rose didn't laugh much. She wore a melancholic disposition that wouldn't go away even if she was offered a billion dollars or was crowned 'Miss Universe'. This disposition persisted despite the fact that she was the blue-eyed girl of her social circle. It had something to do with the way she looked at the world. She was like Peter in that. It's curious because their melancholic attitudes made them 'siblings in disposition'.
***They called him nosy monk. Monk because he lived the life of a hermit; nosy because most of the times he had a runny nose. He was always asking why and never left his black leather Jacket. He never told anybody anything. And nobody bothered to listen to his incoherent mumblings even if he was making some sense. It's very slow livinsg in the mountains, still… life has its own pace. It never stops for anybody. 'Life goes on!' like they say. 'I wanted to... wanted to... make you happy... happy. Why? Why? You just never... just never... get it bitch? Get it? You better... get it. Why? Why… a day after… a day after… you were born… bitch, get it? Get it, bitch?' mumbled the monk. He had queer mannerism. He walked like a toddler, except that he took even shorter steps. And he was always looking down and not up. Even if he had to mend the roof he'd be looking down. It was as if there was a knife over his head that would strike if he looked up. His hut, which had been his dwelling for the last couple of years, ever since he moved in after that episode in his life, had started to leak from the roof. But he didn't care; probably afraid of the knife. Like he didn't care if the local kids tugged at his clothes when he went out to the local grocery store; like when people called him nosy monk within earshot for him to miss it; or when the water tap went on all night a few nights ago; or even when a fly went into his soup, and he finished it with the fly still in the empty mug. He was a curious being. It was as if nothing perturbed him. Yet… he was the most perturbed man. - 4 -Peter was lying lifelessly down on his bed, staring at the ceiling. Then as if somebody put life into him suddenly, he got up, went in the living room, sat on a rocking chair, and started staring at nothing.
The Devil and the RoseBy Harpreet Bhagrath
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 44
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BIC|StoryPeter wasn't always like that. Broody, quiet man who liked locked doors that nobody could come through. And he wanted darkness in his room. So did Jack, but for different reason. Peter wanted darkness because he wanted peace and quietness; these only came with night. He wanted to lock the big mad world outside so that he could think. Brood. Presently, he was brooding on why Rose didn't look at him when he waived to her from the car. She was looking at Linda. Was Linda more important to her than he? And she didn't look very happy. She looked sad. Was she sad because he was leaving? He cheered up a bit at this thought. That she could be sad at him leaving. But she also looked disappointed when he walked in the door. She didn't look happy to see him. It was almost like she was regretful that he came. Why? He always felt so cheerful when he met her. Why doesn't she feel happy to see him? Or does she? What about that look in her face every time he looks at her lovingly? She blushes! He was positive he made her blush. The look in her eyes told it all. The way she would maintain her gaze and then lower eyes... He got up from the rocking chair. The last few positive thoughts were enough to bring him to life. His woman wanted him. That gaze and that blush! But still.... why would she not feel happy to see him? Why? What's...? 'O Rose, what's bothering you? You know you only have to say it once, my doll. I'll give my life for you... Was that Jack bothering you? It must be that Jack.' He felt suffocated all of a sudden. He needed some air... some fresh air.... And his sight needed a change of scene as well. He made for the balcony of his flat. It was dusk when he sat in the rocking chair. It was night now. In the dark, he could just make out the path to the moon light shimmering through the cracks in the door to the balcony. When he locked himself in, he put the curtains down on the windows. Only that crack bothered him, whenever he looked that way. He didn't like looking at full moon. Full clear moon... and the sea. At night, they felt like two of the enemy's closest confidants... laughing at him and mocking him; constantly rubbing it in. He couldn't look at full moon and the sea underneath and not think of what could be... What could be overwhelmingly, breathtakingly beautiful was just a reminder of what could be... 'O Linda, put some sense into her. I'd give my soul to you, Linda,' he murmured, staring at the deep abyss up. - 5 -Wisdom is associated with men. It's a masculine thing. After all, men are required to be wise in order to run the world. Conversely, wisdom is not a required quality in a woman. She doesn't need to be. All she needs to be is... pretty. But Linda was one of those exceptional women who combine beauty with a wisdom that is commendable. Of course, she wasn't as pretty as Rose, but Rose lacked Linda's good sense. Lately, it seemed every time Linda came to Rose's place the topic of discussion was Jack and his heartlessness towards Rose. At the slightest chance, Linda would veer the conversation to this subject. And Rose would try to do the opposite: avoid talking Jack with Linda. None was more critical of Jack than Linda with two of her best friends on the brink of insanity because of him. But she admired Jack for one thing: for using women's own weapon against them. Unlike ordinary men, he didn't demand sex from women. He commanded it. He used their own weapon to destroy them, subdue them to his will, and debase them, mentally and physically. 'Men are idiots,' Linda would say. 'Of course, men run the world but who runs men? It is so easy to get the goodies out of them.' She equated men with dogs when she said, 'Just hover the booty over their heads, give them some and never in plenty and you have them pleading after you with salivating tongues all day long.' When it comes to romance and the matters of the heart, she opined once to her workmate, even the wisest of men can make silliest mistakes. It's like their brains are not hardwired to understand the intricacies and
subtleties of seduction. 'Rose, accept it,' Linda picked up the last conversation exactly where they left it, 'You only think of Peter when Jack treats you good. Every time Jack has done something good to you, I have seen you open up to Peter. 'May be you feel that if Jack is going to treat you good, he's not good enough anymore. It's as if he's become lesser of a man. You know Peter can treat you way better but the fact that you are staying with the bad proves that you like to be treated rough. It's like between good and the bad you would rather choose the bad.' 'It's not as...' 'Don't interrupt me. Hear me out. And Jack, I am sure, feels that in you and is just not willing to let that good man come up in him.' Rose got up, to subtly manifest her annoyance with Linda, from the sill tiredly and headed towards her bedroom. Linda followed, picking up some breath and marshalling her thoughts on the way there. 'And you can't fool Jack,' continued Linda with her counseling, 'He knows every trick in the book. He knows when you are feigning something or pretending to be somebody you are not. He knows when he's got you trapped! 'You know when you came through that door the other day when you saw me with him? I must confess I could feel that… that raw animal magnetism in him. Even though I was aware of how it might hurt you, I couldn't help feeling weak in his arms. At the time you came in, I was at his mercy…' ***'Hey Linda baby ...How are we?' Jack slaps her buttock playfully. He had come to pick Rose, and Linda was already there. Alone. 'Control your hands, Jack!' Men were afraid of Linda. She wasn't the type to take sweet liberties with. They could flirt with her all right, but only long as she was enjoying; there was no muscling in her privacy with 'masculine heat', so to speak. But… she was always vary of Jack. In the game of seduction, it's impossible for women to think after a certain point. They can only feel then. Jack understood this basic fact about women and capitalized on that. No woman, Jack believed, could resist his masculine come-on. Every woman was made to surrender to the more powerful man, and it was his job to make the woman he was seducing see that. For Jack, seduction was fundamentally about controlling and pushing. The trick was in knowing when to control yourself and when to push the woman. Control because woman has to know she hasn't become indispensable to you, push because woman needs it. Personally, he was big on the 'push' part. Especially with Linda. Linda wasn't on his 'hit-list', so to speak but because 'the woman behaved so unaffected by him!' he had to have her. 'Huh huh! I like that in you. You bite!' Jack keeps on touching her. 'This... makes me hate you.' 'Does it?' 'You disgust me.' 'Do I?' He keeps at it. 'Of all the filthy rats of the world, you are the...' 'Whatever...' With this Jack grabs Linda. 'Please Jack, leave me. Please.' This was the word that told Jack the woman was ready for him. It was like she was pleading with him to take her. He wasn't just confident then. He knew that the cat was as good as in the bag. He never stopped after this point, except this one time with Linda. 'She's coming. Leave ...,' begged Linda one last time. On hearing footsteps, Jack lets her go but still they are too close for Rose to overlook what has happened.
- 6 -'I trust you, Linda. The instant I saw you with him, I thought Jack was up to it again.' 'This is what bugs me the most about you, Rose,' Linda just snapped at that, 'You know about his lecherous ways and still choose to stay with him.' 'But he loves me, Linda,' reasoned Rose. 'Get real, Rose. He's a cheat and he knows that you
know his cheating ways. He does it all in your face,' snarled Linda. 'You don't unders...,' Rose tried to interrupt. 'And what about the time when he told you flat he loves you for your body. I can never forget when he told you in that freezing cold way of his. 'It's just a body thing, get it? You better get it.' Yes, I heard it all, Rose. I had just come through the front door. Just hiding in the living room and waiting for an appropriate time to go in your bedroom. I am surprised you even survived the onslaught that evening.' 'You don't understand, Linda. He does love me. Just that he can't help saying all those hurtful things to get back at me for doing something he didn't like. About that onslaught, like you say, the next day he came and apologised. He got on his knees, wrapped me in his arms, and said he was extremely sorry. He made up for that evening.' 'Nothing can ever make up for a treatment that harsh, Rose. You will understand it once you get over him and look at everything he's doing to you in an objective way. Right now you seem to be too blind to see the forest for the trees. This is precisely the reason I am so keen on hooking you up with Peter.' 'Peter has come at the wrong time, Linda.' 'Peter has come exactly at the right time and don't you counter that,' Linda shot back, 'You need a guy like Peter in your life. You need him to get over Jack.' Somebody knocked on the door. 'That must be Peter. Always there at the right time. Read the signs, Rose.' Linda went to open the door. It was Peter as Linda had conjectured. 'Hey, Linda! Good to see you here. You didn't come to work today. Why's that?' 'Just wasn't feeling right this morning. I did give sick leave.' 'Oh did you? You feeling OK now?' 'Yeah, I am alright now.' 'Is Rose home?' 'Yeah, she's in her bedroom. Ah, there she is.' 'Peter? I wasn't expecting you,' said Rose, heading for the sill. 'Oh! I was just driving by. Saw Linda's car and yours as well and came in to say hi. You look beautiful this evening.' 'What, you mean she doesn't look beautiful normally?' interrupted Linda. 'That's not what I meant. Today she looks absolutely... Umm what's that word I'm looking for? Begins with a G and ends with an S. Plenty of vowels thrown around in it. It is on the tip of my tongue. Just can't bloody get...' 'Gorgeous?' Chipped in Rose. 'Yup! You got it, girl.' Agreed Peter and turned to Linda, 'She looks absolutely gorgeous today. I wish she was working with us. I could meet her everyday then.' Rose blushed and felt embarrassed. She could feel the affection in Peter's eyes. Linda excused herself in the mean time to go to the kitchen. 'I am happy being a teacher, Peter. Accounting is not for me.' 'How can I get closer to you then, Rose? Anyway, accounting, you say, is not for you; the classroom, I say, presents even more hostile environment for a girl like you. I know those bastards. I know how they think. They are animals! I reckon every single boy in your class is having a crush on you. You are better off looking for a nursing job, Rose.' Rose laughed. 'I wish I were a boy in your class,' continued Peter, 'I would just stare at you all day long. If possible, I would take extra tuition classes in private. Rob, steal, blackmail, or cheat, you name it I would do it. Heck, I'll even break into houses to pay your tuition fees.' Rose bursts into a hearty laugh. Linda could be heard laughing in the kitchen. 'No, you wouldn't.' 'You've got such beautiful set of dentures, Rose. Your lovely teeth in partnership with your rosy lips bring up some vivid imagery to my fertile imagination. Of roses filled with snow.' 'I don't know…' Rose blushed. Peter was not far off in
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 45
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BIC|Storycomparing Rose's lips with rose petals. 'I better leave now. Looks like a storm brewing up. Don't wanna get caught in the middle of it.' Peter looked at Rose lovingly. Rose looked at him, stared, and lowered eyes. Linda came in from the kitchen. 'You leaving?' 'Yup. Gotta go. Some homework waiting for me back home. Plus I can feel a nasty storm coming. See ya, girls!' 'See ya in the office tomorrow.' 'Sure thing. I'll call you later, Rose.' Peter left. 'I have never seen him in such a good mood. He hardly jokes in the office. But when he's with you, he... It's like you bring out the best in him. And hey! I could even feel you brighten in his presence. I haven't heard you laugh so much, Rose. Don't you see why? You like Peter. You like to be with him.' 'No, I don't.' But she smiled when she said that. - 7 -The next morning Jack came and found Rose in the bedroom. 'Here's your car key, sweetie. How did you get here?' 'Peter drove me down.' 'Who? That wimp?' Just the mention of Peter was enough for Jack to lose his temper. Lately, he had grown unusually intolerant of Peter. 'He's not a wim...' 'Shut-up and listen to me first, you stupid bitch. Once I am finished, you can blurt out your filth. You are putting some wimp in a superior position to me here. For me, you can call it quits anytime you like. From now on, I don't want any mention of him. Get it? You better get it. You were saying?' 'I just wante...' 'Whatever...,' said he with the brush of hand and stormed out, banging the door behind him. He shouldn't have. At least not today, of all days. ***'Don't you dare...,' Peter said, appearing a bit agitated with Rose. His visit this evening was not one of his usual. Today was something special to him. He had been waiting for nearly a couple of months now for this day. Rose with her open blonde hair was looking absolutely ravishing in red top and grey slacks. She looked puzzled and a little exasperated since this was the first time she had seen Peter in an angry mood, 'Dare what Peter? What have I d...?' 'Don't you dare look so cute in front of me, young lady. I am warning you.' Rose burst out laughing. 'Gosh, you look cute enough to eat! I am your regular nice guy but who knows? If you continue looking this delicious, I might pounce on you. Seriously!' 'You will do nothing of the sort Peter. I know you well enough to know that.' 'Don't be so sure. Anyway, these are for you.' 'Why the Roses, Peter?' 'You know the date today. 11th day of July. I wish you many happy returns. And may the best of your past be the worst of your future.' Rose blushed and lowered her eyes, 'Oh! That's so thoughtful of you, Peter. Even I forgot it's my birthday today.' 'Um...I would love to take you out this evening, Rose. If you don't have any plans for the evening, could...' 'I do, Peter... Jack wants to take me out. I'll put these away,' said Rose, feeling embarrassed. Rose put the Roses in her bedroom and looked lovingly at them, obviously deeply moved. She then went back into the living room. 'Where's Linda? I thought she would be here to wish you as well. And Jack? Has he rung? I wonder if he knows it's your birthday today.' 'Jack hasn't called yet. He's probably coming in the evening' 'Probably? But you said a moment ago that you have plans with Jack. To go out!' 'Oh, I must've been somewhere else,' said Rose annoyingly.
Peter looked embarrassed. He was also overcome with that fit of helplessness and emptiness he got when he felt Rose was slipping away from him.
- 8 -Patience was not one of Jack's virtues. He didn't have many to begin with. And he just revolted when somebody tried to pin him down. Lately, he'd been a bit upset because they wanted him to shift base to another city. Cops were beginning to smell something fishy. It's best to bail out at this point, his associate had said. 'Prove? Prove what? To whom? Nobody is that important to me,' bellowed Jack on his end of the line. 'You don't understand the gravity of the situation, Mr. Thorn. The workers need to be compensated to settle the matter,' said his associate on the other end. 'Listen fella, I've been behaving very nicely with these people.' When Jack got angry he threw reason out of the window. 'All I need to do to settle the matter is', continued Jack, 'take the mask off and get the knife out.' 'All they need to do is inform the cops. And when cops come to know of it, it will not be possible for us to fight them.' 'I don't fight, I punish. And if I get it in my brains to finish them off...' 'Now listen, Mr. Thorn, You can't do th. '...no cops, no mafia, no luck, and no God will save them from me. You can tell them that.' 'I know they are nothing. But at the moment they seem to be having all the power.' 'You are forgetting one thing, fella. I need to refresh your memory before I hang up. Power... That's my game.' With this Jack slammed the receiver down hard. He hated opposition, especially when it came from virtual nobodies like those minions. He poured whisky in his glass. He loved its smell and the taste. He hated beer though; just couldn't stand the taste of it. That would be his third drink. In the couple of drinks that preceded it, he had bothered to dilute them with coke. He didn't this time. It all went down in a couple of swigs. 'How dare they!' The glass broke in his hand and cut into the inside of his fierce fist, making the blood seep out. Jack was virtually untouched by the virtue of sensitivity. He looked upon sensitive people as weak. Some women are more masculine than others, and some men are more feminine than others. It seemed nature had not bestowed Jack Thorn with even a shred of femininity. He may have had some sensitivity, but it sure needed a catastrophic event to bring it out in him. 'Bloody nobodies!' fumed Jack with broken glass clenched even tighter in his bloodied fist. - 9 -Nosy monk never probed into people's lives, yet people gave him such undeserving name. Because he was helpless, because he didn't hurt anybody. That's probably why local people never wanted him put in some sort of asylum in the first place. Because he was harmless. 'Why, why... because you wanted me, wanted me... to... wear like him. Why? why? why? To... to... to talk like him?' stuttered the monk. 'Get it? Get it? Bitch…,' he continued. He wasn't a very old man, unlike his lifestyle would suggest. Thirty three at the most, if that. But his beard and long graying hair hid his real age. He appeared fortyish to the superficial observers. And nobody observed him closely. They didn't need to. They knew him as the old monk from that hut up the top who used too many whys in his speech whenever he spoke, and that was it for them.
***Jack entered Rose's home, obviously in a pretty bad mood. He was swearing and constantly hitting left palm with right fist, like was his habit when excited or angry at something. He went straight to Rose's bedroom. Rose followed him, getting up from the living room window sill. 'For God's sake, why are you so angry? And what happened to your h…?' 'There's no fuckin' God. There's only me. Get it? You better get it, you stupid b… what are these roses doing here?'
'Oh these? Peter came.' 'You dumb bitch!' Jack slapped Rose with his good hand, kicked the roses, and trampled on them. Rose fell on the bed face down. Jack turned her over and started to give her another smack. 'Please Jack! Don't hit me. Please… It hurts…,' pleaded Rose and tried to shield her face from another hit. 'How many times,' yelled Jack, 'do I have to fuckin' hammer this simple thing through your thick head!' and again slapped Rose across her face real hard. 'Keep that wimp away from us or get the fuck …,' bellowed Jack, twisting Rose's arm and raising his wounded hand for yet another smack. 'It's my birthday today, Jack,' said Rose and started to cry. Jack could see the look of absolute helplessness in her pleading face; pleading to stop hitting her. This was when Jack could be seen melting. Something in Rose's beseeching face seemed to appeal to the dormant sensitivity in Jack. It must also have been the fact that it was Rose's birthday. He took Rose in his lap, 'Rose… Rose, my beautiful! I… I didn't mean to do that. You know that, don't you? It's like I can't help hurting you back when you hurt me. I have to get back.' Rose started crying like a child now, with tears rolling down her rosy cheeks. They knew no bound… like some dam had been taken off them. This unseen facet of Jack's personality seemed to have touched her deeply. She managed to speak among spasmodic sobs 'I... love… love you... Jack. I love you.' 'Sorry, Rose. I'm sorry beautiful. I just so forgot it was...' Jack hugged her even tighter, like a child in his lap. 'I'd...I'd...die...' Rose couldn't get the words out. She was weeping violently now and shaking with heaving spasmodic sobs convulsed out of her. Her nose was running and her face feverish with overcharge of emotions. She wasn't saying anything because she physically couldn't get the words out. But she wanted to tell Jack how deeply she loved him. That she would die if he were to leave her now.
*** Jack was gone and Linda entered Rose's bedroom and sees her lying face down. 'Hey beautiful, happy b... Rose... Are you crying? What's the matter?' She turned her face up and saw the slap mark. Linda went ballistic instantly, 'It's your birthday today, for crying out loud. And look what present you got. And these', She points at the roses on the ground, 'I can tell the story by just looking at them. Peter gave these to you and that Jack crushed them. Correct me if I am wrong.' She sat on the bed beside her and yelled with raised, helpless hands, 'On your birthday!'
- 10 -The day following Rose's birthday, sitting in his rocking chair and staring at the ceiling, Peter was still musing over Rose's coldness the day before. 'O Rose! Must you be so cruel to me? Do you not want to be happy, to be loved? The more I want you, the more you… seem to… to get away from me. My life is so... empty without you. When you are not around it's like... nobody's home...' 'That Jack....' He sounded angry and got up from the chair, his resolve within shining through his eyes.
*** Peter's entered the room. Linda was already there. She didn't appear very happy. 'Hey Linda, I thought Jack was going to be here.' 'Jack's gone, Peter. For good.' 'Gone? For good? Gone where?' 'They didn't tell me anything.' 'They?' Peter's heart skipped a beat. 'Rose is gone with him...' ‘What...? Rose... Why...? Why…? Rose.... Why…? Why…?’
- Ends -
Brisbane Indian Connexion, July 2012, 46
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