Nov 4 Pages 1-26

Indo AmerIcAn news • FrIdAy, Ay, A noVemBer 4, 2011 • Online editiOn: www.indOn: www.indO Oamerican-news.cOm

5821 Hillcroft, Houston, TX 77036

713-784-5673

Turn your Gold / Silver / Platinum into CashWe pay top $ for all the above metal

Exclusive Diamond and Gold Jewelry at affordable pricesJewelry repairs and setting done on site

Building relationships one customer at a time

Diamond Jewelry Store

Maharaja JewelersDiamond Jewelry Store

Maharaja Jewelers

Pakistan Cricketers Guilty of Spot Fixing

Salm

an B

utt

M. A

sif

Vedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamVedic VaibhavamThis past week, Houston was blessed by the visit of His Holiness Sri Sri Sri Tridandi Srimannaryana This past week, Houston was blessed by the visit of His Holiness Sri Sri Sri Tridandi Srimannaryana This past week, Houston was blessed by the visit of His Holiness Sri Sri Sri Tridandi Srimannaryana Ramanuja Chinna Jeeyar Swami. Swamiji was accompanied by His Holiness Sri Ahobila Ramanuja Jeeyar Ramanuja Chinna Jeeyar Swami. Swamiji was accompanied by His Holiness Sri Ahobila Ramanuja Jeeyar Ramanuja Chinna Jeeyar Swami. Swamiji was accompanied by His Holiness Sri Ahobila Ramanuja Jeeyar Swami, Sriman Ranga Ramanujacharyulu, and an unprecedented 51 Vedic Scholars from India in an auspicious observation of Deepavali and Sri Rama Seva celebrations conducted at the Ashtalakshmi Temple under his guidance.

Story on Page 33

Friday, November 4 2011 | Vol. 30, No. 44

Indo American News www.indoamerican-news.com

Published weekly from Houston, TX

7457 Harwin Dr, Suite 262, Houston, TX 77036 Ph: 713.789.NEWS (6397) • Fax: 713.789.6399 • [email protected]

Vol. 30, No. 44

erican

Circulation Verified by

Partnered & Syndicated with Times of India, Sulekha.com, Google, Yahoo & Bing

www.udipicafeusa.com • Catering: 281-914-2716

PURE VEGETARIAN INDIAN CUISINEPURE VEGETARIAN INDIAN CUISINEHillcroft:5959 Hillcroft, HoustonTX 77036713-334-5555

Krishna Chaat House:5959 Hillcroft, HoustonTX 77036832-251-9000

Houston:4632 FM 1960West HoustonTX 77069281-397-7200

Katy:557 South Mason Rd, Ste: A, Katy TX 77450281-829-6100

Dallas:35 Richardson Heights VillageRichardson, TX 75080469-330-1600

Satish Rao’s • Serving Delicious North & South Indian Dishes

• Catering Events of All Sizes: Corporate | Weddings

Birthdays | Anniversaries

• Adjudged Best Vegetarian Indian Restaurant

2001, 2002, 2003, 2008, 2009, 2010

– Houston Press

Story on Page 3

Indo AmerIcAn news • FrIdAy, Ay, A noVemBer 4 2011 • Online editiOn: www.indOn: www.indO Oamerican-news.cOm

November 4, 201122

Indo AmerIcAn news • FrIdAy, noVemBer 04, 2011 • Online editiOn: www.indOamerican-news.cOm

3 November 04, 2011

www.indoamerican-news.comNEWSamI Si

nce

1982

7457 Harwin Drive • Suite 262 • Houston • Texas • 77036 - 713.789.NEWS (6397) • fax: 713.789.6399

All Misdemeanors and FeloniesDWITheft/BurglaryAssaultJuvenile CrimesWhite Collar Crimes

Houston - Principle Offi ce 11200 Westheimer Rd, ste 120 Houston, Texas 77042

offi ce 832-767-0339direct 469-256-8585

Former State Prosecutorswith over 10 years of experience

A� orney Mukul Kelkar CRIMINAL LAWCIVIL LITIGATION

EMPLOYMENT LAWIMMIGRATION LAW

continued on page 10

HOUSTON: This past week, Hous-ton was blessed with the presence of His Holiness Sri Sri Sri Tridandi Srimannaryana Ramanuja Chinna Jeeyar Swami during Deepavali and Sri Rama Seva celebrations. Swa-miji was accompanied by His Holi-ness Sri Ahobila Ramanuja Jeeyar Swamiji , Sriman Ranga Ramanu-jacharyulu, and an unprecedented 51 Vedic Scholars (Ruthwicks) from India here in Houston for this very auspicious occasion.

With the participation of number of volunteers under the auspicious direction of Sri Swamiji, the cel-ebrations began on a large scale on October 26. Swamiji’s very arrival to Houston on Sunday, October 23 created such a wonderful aura as to inspire the spirit of Deepavali in all devotees. On October 24, Swamiji visited eagerly awaiting devotees in the Woodlands area and at the Woodlands Temple. Swamiji vis-ited the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir on October 25th. Aarti was performed and Swamiji spoke there about the meaning and significance of a guru. Later on that day, Swa-miji spoke to all the volunteers for the upcoming event igniting a great deal of energy for what would be a most memorable event for all.

During the early morning hours of October 26, many devotees were offered the unique and very special opportunity to participate in Naraka Chaturdasi celebrations, preceeding the Deepavali celebrations later in the day. Swamiji spoke about the significance of Naraka Chaturdasi,

and devotees were given a spe-cially consecrated oil to be ap-plied with the purpose of remov-ing negative energies.

Deepavali celebrations began later that evening. The program began with the mass chanting of the Vishnu Sahasranamam. Following this several eminent community leaders were hon-ored by Sri Swamiji. Proclama-tions from elected officials and dignitaries were presented and read out on the occasion. As is considered very auspicious on the Amavasya Day of Deepavali, Saamuhika Sri Dhana Lakshmi Puja was conducted. It was a grand success with over a thou-sand participants and devotees.

On a most auspicious day, our Acharya Sri Chinna Jee-yar Swamiji’s Thirunakshatram Day (birthday), October 27 saw the beginning of the Sri Rama Kratuvu or Yajna as well as the Nrusimha Isthi. Blessed were

the devotees and the very land to have such a great number of Ruth-wicks and scholars assembled to perform the Yajna for the benefit of all (Lok Kalyan). Amazingly,

after the initiation of the Yajna and completion of the Nrusimha Isthi, Houston saw a very heavy rain!! This was very much needed after the long dry spells that Housto-nians had become much accus-tomed to.

On October 27, the Jeeyar Edu-cational Trust (JET) USA and Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple JET USA Houston Chapter, were blessed to be able to perform Acharya Thirunakshatram Celebrations. Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji was given Temple honors from preem-inent and most sacred Temples in India and abroad. This was truly a sight to see. It was an emotional and most humbling time for most devotees. The evening’s program

commenced with words from Sri Swamij’s devotees who have been instrumental in moving Swamiji’s mission forward in India and here in the United States. The Prajna students of the Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple JET USA Houston Chap-ter presented a beautiful song with orchestra as a birthday gift to Sri Swamiji.

Swamiji’s motto is “Serve Vedas and Save Vedas!” For this reason, on the occasion of His Holiness’ Thirunakshatram Swamiji honors a Vedic scholar every year. This year we were very fortunate to have Brahmasri Parameshwara Deek-shitar from Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India. He is responsible for preserving the Maitrayani Shakha

Houston Blessed with Acharya Vaibhavam!

Swamiji sprinkling the holy water from the Yagna Kalasa Photos: Vijay Pallod, Rajesh Ratnala & Sai Gandhi

Swamiji performing the Sahsra Kalasa Abhishekam

See Page 14

Dal Makhani Recipe

Indo AmerIcAn news • FrIdAy, Ay, A noVemBer 04 , 2011 • Online editiOn: www.indOn: www.indO Oamerican-news.cOm

November 04, 20114

COMMUNITY

Swagat Chana Dal 4LB $2.99Swagat Kala Chana 4LB $2.99Swagat Moong Whole 4LB $3.99Swagat Moong Dal 4LB $3.99Swagat Urad Dal 4LB $3.99Swagat Plain Toor Dal 4LB $3.99Swagat Oily Toor Dal (Madhi) 4LB $3.99Swagat Urad Gota 4LB $3.99Swagat Urad Whole 4LB $3.99Swagat Moong Split Swagat Moong Split Swagat Moong Split 4LB $3.99Swagat Val Dal 4LB $4.99Laxmi Masoor Dal 4LB $3.99

SPICES ... wow (100% No-1 Quality)Swagat Cumin Seed SPICES ... wow (100% No-1 Quality)Swagat Cumin Seed SPICES ... wow (100% No-1 Quality)

400gm $3.10SPICES ... wow (100% No-1 Quality)

400gm $3.10SPICES ... wow (100% No-1 Quality)Swagat Mustard Seeds 400gm $1.39

400gm $3.10400gm $1.39 400gm $3.10

Swagat Fennel Seed 400gm $2.69400gm $1.39 400gm $2.69400gm $1.39

Black Salt 100gm $0.59400gm $2.69100gm $0.59400gm $2.69

Sendhav Seeds 100gm $0.59100gm $0.59100gm $0.59100gm $0.59

Swagat Chille Whole 100gm $1.25100gm $0.59100gm $1.25100gm $0.59

Ramdev Dhanajeera 800gm $3.10100gm $1.25800gm $3.10100gm $1.25

Ramdev Coriander Powder 400gm $1.89Ramdev DhanajeeraRamdev Coriander Powder 400gm $1.89Ramdev Dhanajeera 800gm $3.10Ramdev Coriander Powder 400gm $1.89

800gm $3.10

Ramdev Garam Masala Pwd 400gm $2.49Ramdev Coriander Powder 400gm $1.89Ramdev Garam Masala Pwd 400gm $2.49Ramdev Coriander Powder 400gm $1.89

Eno Regular 100gm $2.99Ramdev Garam Masala Pwd 400gm $2.49

100gm $2.99Ramdev Garam Masala Pwd 400gm $2.49

(Limit 2 pcs per family)Swagat Coriander Seeds 400gm $2.25Swagat Turmeric Pwd 400gm $2.49Swagat Coriander Seeds Swagat Turmeric Pwd 400gm $2.49Swagat Coriander Seeds 400gm $2.25Swagat Turmeric Pwd 400gm $2.49

400gm $2.25

Swagat Cinnamon Sticks 400gm $3.25Swagat Turmeric Pwd 400gm $2.49

400gm $3.25Swagat Turmeric Pwd 400gm $2.49

Swagat Chilli Powder 400gm $2.49400gm $3.25400gm $2.49400gm $3.25

Swagat Methi Seeds 400gm $1.39400gm $2.49400gm $1.39400gm $2.49

Poha Thick 2LB $1.59 400gm $1.39

$1.59 400gm $1.39

Mamra 400gm $1.25Swagat Juwar Flour Swagat Juwar Flour Swagat Juwar Flour 8LB $5.99

400gm $1.25$5.99

400gm $1.25

Swagat Rice Flour Swagat Rice Flour Swagat Rice Flour 8LB $3.75Idli Rava 2LB $2.29Spicy World Mango Pulp 6*800g $7.99

Fresh VegetablesTomato Fresh VegetablesTomato Fresh Vegetables

2LB $1.00(Limit 10LB Per Family)Red Onion 3LB $1.00(Limit 10LB Per Family)Yellow Onion 3LB $1.00 (Limit 10LB Per Family)Ginger 1LB $0.79(Limit 10LB Per Family)Dhodhi 1LB $0.79(Limit 10LB Per Family)Eggplant Small 1LB $0.99(Limit 5LB Per Family)

Pani Puri (Wheat) $2.89Maggi Masala 640gm $2.99Parle G 35gm $3.00

640gm $2.99$3.00

640gm $2.99

(Buy 15 Get 15 Free)Complan Chocolate 500gm $6.99Horlicks Plain 400gm $3.99

500gm $6.99400gm $3.99500gm $6.99

Almonds (Limit 2) 3LB $7.99400gm $3.99

$7.99400gm $3.99

Cashew Whole 28oz $11.99Cashew Pcs 28oz $10.99Golden Raisins 28oz $4.99Ashirvad Atta 11LB $10.99(Buy One Get One Free)Golkunda Sonamasoori Rice 20LB $11.99Himalaya Crown Basmati Rice 10LB $6.99

Fresh VegetablesKarelaFresh VegetablesKarelaFresh Vegetables

$1.29 LBTuria $0.99 LBLong Egg $0.99 LBSmall Egg $1.09 LBDudhi $0.50 LBTindora $1.49 LBOkra $1.99 LBGuvar Guvar Guvar $2.69 LBValor Flat $3.79 LBThai Chilli $1.99 LBLong Chilli $2.49 LBPakoda Chilli $1.49 LBPraval $3.99 LBPunjabi Tinda $2.69 LBYellow Turmeric $1.99 LBBeet $0.79 LBCauliflower $1.35LB (Each)Dosakai $1.49 LBSnake Gourd $1.79 LBMuli $0.99 LBDry Coconut $0.99 LB (Each)Piya Coconut $1.19 LB (Each)Green Mango $2.89 LB Plantain Small $0.89 LBSweet Potato $0.89 LB Guava $2.99 LB Methi $1.29 LB (Each)Spinach $0.99 LB (Each)Red Onion $0.35 LBWhite Onion $0.35 LBWhite Potato $0.59 LBRed Potato $0.79 LBFrozen Deep Plain Pratha (Home Style) $1.49 (Each)Frozen Deep Tandorian Naan(Plain) $1.49 (Each)Frozen Deep Plain Pratha (Home Style) $1.49 (Each)Frozen Deep Tandorian Naan(Plain) $1.49 (Each)Frozen Deep Plain Pratha (Home Style) $1.49 (Each)

Lowest Prices In Town Best Customer Service

- No rain checks - Not responsible for printing errors - No returns. No exchange on sale items - All prices good while stocks last - Many more items at low prices - We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone- Please Look into Indo America Newspaper for next Weeks Specials

Open 7 Days 10am- 9:30pm

DALS & BEANSSwagat Chana Dal 4LB $2.99 Pani Puri (Wheat) 50CT $2.89

Vishala Grocery & Restaurant #19410 HWY6 South Houston, Tx 77083Phone: 281-498-0220 • 281-498-6074

Vishala Grocery & Restaurant #25205 South Mason Rd. Katy, Tx 77450

Phone: 281-492-2020

Palkhi Sarees

GRAND SALEThis Week Special

Catering for all events


5

If you receive your paper more than four days after the dateline, please file a complaint with your post office or call the USPS Consumer Affairs

Office at 713-226-3442

Indo American News (ISSN 887-5936) is published weekly every Friday

(for a subscription of $30 per year) by IndoAmerican News Inc., 7457 Harwin Dr., Suite 262,

Houston, TX 77036, tel: 713-789-6397, fax:713-789-6399,

email: [email protected] postage paid at Houston, Texas.

POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Indo American News,

7457 Harwin Dr., Suite 262, Houston, TX 77036

5November 04, 2011COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY

NOW HIRING WAITRESSESDesi Korner Lounge

Hookah & Sport Bar

6626 Soutwest Freeway, Houston, TX, 77074Please call: 281-302-9279

$25 Per Hour

Icc celebrates a celebrates a c secular secular s diwali for the whole community

By Jy Jy awahar Mawahar Mawahar alhotraHOUSTON: India House was agog was

colorful decorations, exhibits and excite-ment this past Sunday evening, October 30 as over 200 people from across the commu-nity came to participate in a cultural program and some refreshments to mark the advent of Diwali in one of the last celebrations of the festival (that was free to the public) in the Bayou City.

The function was organized by the India Culture Center in collaboration with many of the other regional organizations and held at India House on West Bellfort and South Gessner. The front lobby of India House was festooned with strings of lights, gar-lands and rangoli designs on the flower, one made of paper flower petals on which the arriving guests could place a LED candle after being welcomed by the IH President, Jugal Malani. (ICC President Raj Bhalla is still on vacation in India but coordinated the function by phonecalls and email).

To capture the festive spirit of Diwali, which is celebrated with great pomp and fireworks in India, in the far end rotunda, several vendors who supported the func-tion had their booths while Hindu themed artwork lined up against the far wall featur-ing Tanjore art with gold flakes and pearls by local artist Anju Mittal. In an adjoining room, face painting and henna designs were given to those who lined up and a clown made balloon designs for the very young.

In a nod to the difficulty that people have in catching all the performances on the small

center stage, a much larger stage was set up along at one end of the room and the deco-rated backdrop designed by Anuradha Patel of Mandap Creations added brilliance to the room. Rows of chairs lined the remainder of the room for the audience which filled the room to standing room capacity midway through the function.

The function started with an introduction by event co-chair Falguni Gandhi (and was fittingly closed at the end by the other co-chair, Swapan Dhariyawan), who left the stage in the able hands of Dr. Manju Chan-dana Sachdeva, who emceed the event with remarkable ease and small details, despite the improvised backstage setup. She led the audience through performances by dance troupes from several local schools encom-passing over 60 youngsters – Roopa Dance School, Sunanda Performing Arts, Anjali School of Performing Arts, Avantika Aka-demi of Dance and Jasmeeta Singh’s stu-dents – all of which were highly entertain-ing and energetic. Many of the same troupes have performed elsewhere in the city at oth-er functions and it is always impressive that the young women in our community have committed themselves to excel at mastering such complex and colorfully choreographed dances, whether the genre is classical, folk or fusion.

In addition to the dances, two winners of the Lil’ Champs singing contest held this past July - ten-year old Purva Das and twelve-year old Srisangeeta Shridar - wowed the audience with their vocal range

and mastery of the rhythms as they sang two songs apiece. The program also included an improvised Indian costume line up to repre-sent the diversity of cultures in India.

Also attending the entire program was Congressman Pete Olson of District 22 which encompasses Sugar Land and a little after the start, Congressman Al Green who had to leave midway. Indian Consul Gen-eral Sanjeev Arora and his wife Chaya came to the event towards the tail end of the pro-gram. Both he and Olson spoke briefly and admiringly onstage about the vibrant Indian community and conveyed their felicitations for Diwali to everyone.

If there was one thing to be critical about it was the length of the show, which stretched out for 90 minutes, which, given that it was

the Sunday evening before going to work the next day, was a challenge for many to stay throughout. Midway through the per-formances, the hall was full, but people slowly drifted out to the serving line for the refreshments and towards the end, very few were left in the hall. Some repetitive per-formers could have easily been taken out of the line-up to keep the function down to an hour.

Still, the function was well received and a fitting conclusion to the Diwali festivities, thanks to the efforts over an intensive three weeks of many volunteers and organizers among the ICC and India House Boards who have been striving over the past year to make the India House a cultural destination for the area’s desi community.desi community.desi

From left: Event co-chair Falguni Gandhi with emcee of the event Dr. Manju Chandana


6 November 04, 20116 medicare medicare m enrollment enrollment e options 2012 options 2012 o seminar at India Houseseminar at India Houses

By Jy Jy acoB DaviDHOUSTON: Medicare, a feder-

al health insurance care package for people 65 years or older has a lot of options. Sudhir Mathu-ria, a licensed professional for Medicare and Medicaid health re-lated plans. Dr Nik Nikam, heart specialist, and author of “Heart Healthy Lifestyle” was also pres-ent at the seminar. He had re-cruited two high school students, Ramya Krothapally and Rachel Neycheril to introduce PCIP - a health insurance for people with pre-existing condition.

The chill brought in by the cold front over the weekend resulted for a lean attendance of senior citizens at India House.

A brief presentation of the op-tions available followed by a question and answer session by both Sudhir and Dr Nik Nikam helped the audience understand what was available.

Medicare has four parts Part A, B, C and D and provides medi-cal and drug coverage. Part A provides inpatient hospital ac-cess with no monthly or annual premium charge. Part B pays for doctor services, outpatient hos-pital care and medical supplies when necessary. Part C is a tie up with federal and private insurance companies to administer health care with lower co-payments and get extra coverage for additional days in the hospital. Part D is

Ramya Krothapally and Rachel Neycheril with High Tower high school introduced the PCIP - Pre-existing Condition Insurance Plan, which covers primary and specialty care, hospital care, and prescription drugs. The US Health and Human services has made this possible after tedious lobbying by President Obama. Various leaflets and brochures were laid out at the entrance for people to pick up

Dr Nik NIkam, Rachel Neycheril, Ramya Krothapally along with a group of senior citizen attendees watch the power point presentation on several comparable plans available with varied deductibles and options for people wanting to choose health insurance over 65

Prescription Drug Coverage and requires you to enroll when you become eligible to join Medicare. If people join Part D at a later stage, they may be entitled to a penalty.

Medicare Advantage has plans that cover vision, dental, hearing and annual physicals with coverage for health services while travelling.

Sudhir Mathuria is licensed as a Medicare Profes-sional to operate in over 20 states. The brief presenta-tion was an overview of what options are available. He said that each plan has to be tailored to the individual and he is available to help senior citizens discuss their options in person going over their plan with them in detail.

Turning 65 can be a challenge when it comes to choosing health coverage. Visit www.medicare.gov

Sudhir Mathuria can be reached by phone at 713-7771-2900 or [email protected] For more details, visit, www.MyMedicarePlanning.com Sudhir Mathuria explains the benefits of Medicare, Medicaid and

PCIP, Pre-existing Condition Insurance Plan among others

COMMUNITY


77November 04, 2011COMMUNITYchar char c dham Temple’s Auspicious Bhoomi Puja on saturday, saturday, s nov 12

By chetana Shetana Shetana aMalHOUSTON: Char Dham evokes a col-

lage of images. From northern Himalayas to oceans on three sides of our beautiful motherland, India, the images form a dream for every Indian to do a Char Dham yatra at least once in a lifetime! Badrinath on north, Rameswaram in South, Dwarka in west and Jagannath Dham in Puri- together form the Char Dham.

With this in mind, the SKAI foundation has picked up this ambitious plan of build-ing the Char Dham Hindu Temple here in Houston. Nestled in the beautiful wooded area of Woodlands, Texas, the lords will

have a serene, calm and peaceful abode to rest and to bless devotees.

Sometimes it makes us to wonder, what really made Adi Guru Sankaracharya, the philosopher and reformer to establish these four Dhams at four corners of India in as an-cient as 8th century? Was it only a spiritual revival for Hinduism? Or he tried to unify the whole India through his journey?

Geographically the Char Dham makes a perfect square with Badrinath and Rameswaram falling on the same longitude and Dwarka and Puri on the same latitude, representing the farthest north, east, west, and south points of India at the time of Adi Shankara.

For regular masses, Vedas and other scrip-tures were way beyond their comprehen-sion. Adi Sankara studied them, discovered the real explanation, wrote commentaries for propagate the deep meaning of Vedas. He travelled far and wide(must have been painstakingly difficult keeping in mind that it was ancient India with very little infra-structure) , debated on their true explanation with the purists and pundits, finally brought back glories of Hinduism back to Hindus and for the first time the whole Bharat was united. Probably, because of his great efforts

people living in different part of the sub-continent started appreciating each other’s culture and values.

Establishment of Four Mathas was Adi Guru’s intention of doing more research and preservation of four Vedas and dissemina-tion of right information to all people who-ever came forward to gain knowledge.

Jyotir Matha as an example at Badrinath, was assigned the task of maintaining and pre-serving of Atharv Veda. Sharada Matha at Dwaraka was assigned the task of main-taining and pre-serving the Sam Veda. Gov-ardhan Matha at Puri was assigned the task of Rig Veda and Sringeri Matha at Sringeri

hills in the South India was assigned the task of Yajur Veda.

For thousands of years, with all geograph-ical change, glacial effects, the ‘dot’ is still place in the mountain ‘Om Parvat’. The same way, the importance of unity through Char Dham will have same prominence for coming ages too!

The SKAI foundation has planned to com-plete the temple in 2012/2013. The beauti-ful temple which is also called as ‘Shree Dham’ will encompass kitchens(separate for Lord’s Prasad and community needs), Priest quarters(will house 8 priests), Multi-use cultural center which will be available to all irrespective of cultural affiliations and Ratha Storage facility for annual Ratha Ya-tra of Lords.

The SKAI Foundation invites all Hous-tonians to participate in the ‘Bhoomi Puja’ event which is happening on November 12, 2011, and be part of this unique endeavor. In the Houstonian multi cultural Diasporas, the Char Dham temple will work towards uni-versal unity and brotherhood and facilitate devotee’s dream of visiting four Dhams at one place!

For more information, please visit: http://www.skaifoundation.org/

Writers are requested to limit their words to 500 The deadline for advertising and articles is 5 pm on Tuesday of each week. For more information, Call 713-789- NEWS

WriterS ...tAke NOTICE


8 November 04, 20118

Announcement

Please call us to get these special faresWHOLESALE CONSOLIDATOR OF

EMIRATES & KUWAIT AIRLINES

12375 Bissonnet, Ste. B Houston, TX 77099

We have special low

fares on Jet Airways

281-530-30001-888-811-LESS

WHOLESALER FOR

MAJOR AIR CARRIERS• Emirates

• Gulf Airways • Kingfisher

• Singapore Airlines • Jet Airways

• Sahara Airlines • Indian Airlines

• Eva Airlines • Asiana Airlines

• Qatar Airways • PIA • Air India

• Royal Jordanian • China Airlines Indo-American News © 2011

Special Student and Teacher discounts

We have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful years

Call us for competitive and confirmed seats on all major cities in Texas to any city in India.Call us for

Summer and December seats now

www.faregurus.com/ [email protected]

MITRA / CAMDEN TRAVEL

12375 Bissonnet, Ste. B Houston, TX 77099

We have special low

fares on Jet Airways

We have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful yearsWe have completed 20 successful years

Last minute fares to Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi, Bangalore, Calcutta and many more...

For December fares please call us now.

Last minute fares

For December fares

COMMUNITY

LAW OFFICES OFZAINAB K. RIZVI

DEDICATED DEPENDABLEDEDICATED DEPENDABLEDEDICATED DEPENDABLEPERSONAL ATTENTIONPERSONAL ATTENTIONPERSONAL ATTENTION

IIIMMIGRATION MMIGRATION MMIGRATION LLLAWAWAWNon Immigration and Immigrant Visa,Family & Employment Immigration.

Citizenship/Naturalization, Asylum, VAWA

WWWILLS/ILLS/ILLS/TTTRUSTSRUSTSRUSTSPower of Attorney, Estate Planning

BBBUSINESS USINESS USINESS FFFORMATIONORMATIONORMATIONPartnerships, LLC, LLP

WWWE ALSO SPEAK URDU & HINDIE ALSO SPEAK URDU & HINDIE ALSO SPEAK URDU & HINDICALL TODAY FOR FREE CONSULTATION

713-297-9131

&&&PERSONAL ATTENTIONPERSONAL ATTENTIONPERSONAL ATTENTION

&PERSONAL ATTENTIONPERSONAL ATTENTIONPERSONAL ATTENTION



www.zkrlaw.com

2425 WEST LOOP SOUTH SUITE 200,HOUSTON, TEXAS 77027

Principal offi ce located in Houston, Texas

HOUSTON: Diwali, the festival of lights needs no introduction to Indians. Each one of us has some vivid memories associated with the festival, be it going to Ram-leela with friends and family, firecrackers, new clothes or the mouth-watering sweets.

When we leave our country in pursuit of better prospects, we certainly miss out on these celebrations. Good thing is that our tra-ditions and cultures are so deeply ingrained, unique and exquisite that we find ways to celebrate our festivals whichever part of the world we reside. I recently experienced this with the Diwali celebration at Baylor Col-lege of Medicine (BCM). Diwali celebra-tion organized by the Indian Students and Scholars Association (ISSA) at BCM on Oct 22, had such energy and expression that the feeling of home away from home was self evident and all pervasive. The event was organized in the Main Baylor building where beautifully decorated walls created a nice ambiance and soft Indian classical mu-

sic set the tune for the Diwali celebration. The event was kick started with Ganesh

and Lakshmi Puja followed by prasad dis-tribution to all the attendees. Shortly after, Smita Jha, the President of ISSA welcomed everybody and summarized the importance Diwali to a crowd that included people from various nationalities. She also introduced Surender Talwar, the Vice President of In-dia Culture Centre who graced the occasion with his presence. He had very kind and encouraging words for the youth and com-mended ISSA for its role in bringing people together and celebrating Indian festival.

The first cultural event of that day was a wonderful dance performance by Surabhi Gaur, Geetali Pradhan and Parineeta Galga-likar that celebrated the various festivals of our land to the tunes of Bollywood music and applauding crowd. This was followed

by a breathtaking performance by the Rice Bhangra team from Rice University that looked splendid in the traditional Punjabi costumes. The show maker of the day was a witty skit performed by students and re-searchers from BCM and MD Anderson Cancer Center that had the audience in splits right from the beginning. The skit was based on modern day version of Ramayana where Janak (Dr. Umesh Karandikar) along with his friend (Adithya Raghavan) organizes a talent show to find an alliance for his daugh-ter Sita (Pooja Mehta). The contestants of the talent show included the likes of Gabbar Singh (Mayur Gadhikar), Akbar, Ravan (Dr. Mohan Joshi), a struggling graduate student (Aditya Kulkarni), a chinese warrior (Hsing-I Ho) and Amitabh Bacchan (Arpit Tandon) along with Ram (Shhyam Moorthy) and a Hollywood star (Bryan Danielson).

Besides the cultural events, Sasirekha Ra-mani of ISSA talked about the highlights of BCM India initiative led by Dr. Navneet

Kathuria that is part of the recently estab-lished global outreach pro-gram at BCM. Ruchi Masand, the Vice-Pres-ident of ISSA, emceed the en-tire event. Just like no celebra-tion in India is complete with-out delicious food, Diwali

celebration at BCM culminated with sump-tuous Indian food graciously sponsored by Mantra (Sugar Land), Raja Sweets, Neeta’s Indian cuisine and Spice of India. The event was made possible by generous gifts from Dheerubhai Kottak and Himalaya Restau-rant and jubilant participation by students and researchers at BCM, M.D. Anderson Cancer Centre and Rice University in the Texas medical centre.

Altogether, it was a memorable Diwali 2011 celebration brought together by ISSA at BCM. The Texas Medical Center has a sizeable Indian population and ISSA now plans to expand its member base and extend the advantages to the Indian community from other institutions in the medical cen-tre.

The organization can be contacted on fa-cebook at www.facebook.com/bcm.issa

diwali celebration at Bcelebration at Bc cm


99November 04, 2011COMMUNITYCOMMUNITY

HOUSTON: At the Procurement Break-fast on October 18 at Houston Community College the Minority Enterprise Develop-ment (MED) Week awards were presented. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee was the keynote speaker at the event. Vinmar In-ternational was awarded the 2011 Exporter of the Year Award and Cybersoft Technolo-gies Inc. was presented the award for the IT Company of the year.

The Minority Enterprise Development (MED) week, designated by a presidential proclamation in 1983, signifies recognition and validation for the entrepreneurial drive and achievements of minority owned busi-nesses and advocates of minority business. During MED week minority owned busi-nesses are awarded for being outstanding and are given an opportunity to network with each other, share knowledge and con-duct business-to-business matchmaking. It is a national initiative of the U.S. Depart-ment of Commerce’s Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA).

The IT Company of the year award was accepted on behalf of Cybersoft Technolo-gies Inc by Milind Sethi (Business Develop-ment Manager) and Bhaskar Patel(General Manager) who said “On behalf of the entire Cybersoft team, it’s my pleasure to accept this award. The Greater Houston Region is an awesome place for business primarily

due the richness and the diversity of its work force and also due to the infrastructure & the growth opportunities that are available to all small businesses. We will strive to grow as a more responsible and inclusive member of the business community.”

About CybersoftHeadquartered in Houston, Texas and

founded by Chowdary ‘Charlie’ Yalamanchili, Cybersoft Technologies is a leading provider of innovative technology solutions since its inception in January 1998. Cybersoft’s clients in the US include K-12 School Dstricts, State and local government agencies, and Fortune 1000 corporations. Cybersoft’s mission is to leverage the power of proven technology to solve department problems and offer strate-gic business alternatives to increase efficiency and performance. The slogan, “CYBERSOFT makes IT easy” permeates all they do as we go about applying technological advances to improve the lives of our customers. Cybersoft operates two complementary divisions- their Education Solutions Division- serving educa-tional institutions with software products, cus-tom solutions and services and the Consulting Services Division - providing business and technology solutions based on unparalleled industry knowledge and proven best practices. For more information please visit www.cyber-soft.net and t and t www.primeroedge.com

cybersoft Technologies Inc. cybersoft Technologies Inc. c recognized atrecognized atrminority minority m med week Houston 2011week Houston 2011w

Hindu Temple in The woodlands Holds woodlands Holds wFirst diwali celebration at Templecelebration at Templec

WOODLANDS: Hindu Temple of The Woodlands (HTW) achieved another impor-tant milestone this past week. This was the first Diwali celebration at the temple which was inaugurated this past June. HTW had a very successful Diwali Mahotsav, begin-ning with a Lakshmi Puja on Wednesday, October 26th and followed by Srinivasa Kalyanam and its first Annual Diwali Mela on Saturday, October 29th. Over 200 Hin-dus participated in the Lakshmi Puja, many of them having a thali plate with puja items so that they and family members could per-form puja along with the priests who were performing puja to Lakshmi as present in the temple’s Panchalokam Utsava Murthy. For a weekday evening, this was great par-ticipation.

On Saturday, over 500 people attended the various events and enjoyed chaat, sweets, snacks, shopping, and games Several ven-dors, including Indian restaurants and re-tailers, participated. The vendors did brisk business as people enjoyed the food and shopping throughout the day. The variety of the food suited preferences of all. Women, especially, enjoyed the variety of fashion-able Indian attire available.

Other activities were provided by the temple with the help of many volunteers. Youth volunteers, in particular, had a great time assisting with the younger children’s

HTW’s Utsava Murthy of Goddess Lak-shmi decorated for Puja on DiwaliPhotos: Anil Adoni

Volunteers with Diwali decorations at HTW

activities. There were toss games, a bounc-ing house, face painting and more for all to enjoy.

HTW appreciates the community support and the efforts of the many volunteers. It ex-pects that this event will be even bigger and better next year.

Hindu Temple of The Woodlands serves the religious, cultural, and educational needs of the Hindus of the North Houston area, including 1960 area, Spring, King-wood, Tomball, Conroe and other surrounding communities. HTW also has a goal of serving both the Hindu community and the broader commu-nity through health fairs, educational activities and more. The temple is located at 7601 S. For-estgate at Woodlands Parkway, Spring, TX 77382. It is open daily for arti and archana and other pujas to Lord Ga-nesha, Lord Shiva, Sri Venkateshwara, and the Navagrahas. The temple is a 501(c)(3) non-profit religious organization.


10

ALEXANDER P. MATHEWS, CPA

For Services In:INDIVIDUAL & BUSINESS TAXES • BUSINESS TAX CONSULTATION

INCORPORATION, FORMATION OF LLCCERTIFIED QUICK BOOK ADVISOR AVAILABLE

25 Years in Public Accounting25 Years in Public Accounting11104 West Airport, Ste 114, Stafford, TX 77477

(281) 564-9500

For Your Advertisement NeedsCall 832-368-4012

Need help with an Immigration Matter ?• Green Cards • US Citizenship • Appeals• H-1B, L-1 Visas • Deportation Defense

Sharlene Richards(Attorney at Law)

713-623-8088 • [email protected] SW Freeway, Ste:600, Houston, TX 77027

*Licensed by the Supreme Court of New York and admitted to practice before the US Court of Appeals. Not certified by the Texas Board of Legal SpecializationIA

New

s ©

201

0IA

New

s ©

201

0

FREE Consultation* *(Restrictions Apply)

GURUCOOL Learning Center

5862 New Territory Blvd, (Randalls Shopping Center)

281-494-MATH (6284)See how we can improve your skills in:• Math drills and Word problems• Phonics, Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, and Grammar• Pre-Algebra, Algebra, and Geometry• Algebra II, Pre-Cal, Calculus

Check our new exciting programs for:• Elementary GT Preparation• Middle School Math Counts• High School AP PreparationIA News © 2010

Learning Hours: 4PM - 7PM Monday - Thursday

November 04, 201110 COMMUNITYof the Yajur Veda . Sri Chinna Jee-yar Swamiji sent Vedic students to learn the Maitrayani Shakha from Brahmasri Parameshwara Deek-shitar. These Vedic students are in turn passing this knowledge on to more students. Very blessed were we to be able to listen to the words of such a magnanimous person. We were also very blessed to have the original Vedic students of Swa-miji’s Ashram who learned the Maitryani Shakha from Brahmasri Parameswara Deekshitar here with us on this occasion. Brahmasri Parameshwara Deekshitar spoke about his initiation into the Vedas and his experience in setting out to learn the Maitrayani Shakha . He also spoke a great deal about his regard for Swamij and how Swamij truly stands for the motto: “Worship your Own, Respect all”. Swamiji in turn spoke about Brah-masri Parameswara Deekshitar and his great contribution to our Vedic heritage.

October 28 saw the continuation of the Sri Rama Kratuvu (Yajna) and the Lakshmi Narayana Ishti. Devotees continued to pour in to

take part in the celebrations. The scene at the Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple was buzzing with the true happiness and bliss of devotees.

On October 29, a large number of devotees joined to take part in the Sri Sita Rama Kalyanam. Sri Ahobila Jeeyar Swamiji initially led the devotees in initiating the Kalyanam process. He led the crowd in bhajans that had all the devotees singing and clapping with joy. The Pravachana Mandapam rang with the sounds of the divine music, a true joy to witness. Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji explained the Kalyanam meaning and pro-cess in detail to the devotees. The Hayagriva Isthi for knowledge and the Vainateya Ishti for those seek-ing children were also conducted on this day.

On October 30, the feature event, the Sahasra Kalasa Abhishekam, took place for the first time outside of India. Performing the Sahasra Kalasa Abhishekam at the time of Swamij’s Thirunakshatram Celebrations has been a tradition since 1994 as Swamiji described to the audience. It is performed to honor Swamiji’s deities. As the

story goes, Swamiji’s deities were stolen once in 1994 and found by a dedicated policeman Sriman Koteswara Rao. Since that time, Sahasra Kalasa Abhishekam has been performed every year. As part of this, Sriman Koteswara Rao is felicitated every year on this day. Sriman Koteswara Rao is present and takes a central part in the annual Sahasra Kalasa Abhishekam celebrations. This year, since the Sahasra Kalasa Abhishekam was taking place in Houston, Sriman Koteswara Rao was specially flown in to take part in the celebration. It was truly a great honor to have him here and to hear the story of his great feat.

Truly blessed are the city of Houston, the Jeeyar Educational Trust USA, and all the devotees to have been able to take part in such a momentous and rare event. The memories of this event will linger on forever in the hearts and minds of devotees. It is truly thanks to the all of the volunteers who worked endless hours to make this event a success. The presence of all of the devotees was indeed the essence of the celebration.

continued from page 3

Houston Blessed with Acharya Vaibhavam!

By nanD Kapoor Kapoor Kian chicago correSponDentCHICAGO: Hamdard Center

for health and human services cel-ebrated the auspicious occasion of Diwali on October 25 at its Devon offices. Over 60 of Hamdard’s cli-ents came to the center to mark the auspicious occasion.

Two community leaders, Nand Kapoor and Sher Rajput were the key speakers at the event. The event began with Sudaksha Ka-poor reciting the history and sig-nificance of Diwali to the guests. There was also the Deepak light-ing ceremony that was led by Co-founder and Chairman of the board for Hamdard Center Dr. Moham-mad Hamid and community leader Nand Kapoor. Once the first deep-ak was lighted, clients brought the diyas decorated with flowers to be

Hamdard center center c celebrates celebrates c diwali

lighted and passed them to each other.

Hamdard Center was then pleased to have Pranita Jain of Ka-lapriya organization bring dancers of Hareepa chicago who performed bhangra and led a workshop for the clients with many of them partici-pating in the dance moves taught by Hareepa. The robust dancing was followed by a sumptuous veg-etarian lunch of Vegetarian Biryani

with Chick Pea gravy and sweets were d is t r ibu ted to seniors and guests to mark the beautiful hol-iday.

Dr. Hamid thanked the audience for their presence and joining him in cele-brating the Festival of Lights and assured for more such events to come. Nand Kapoor, former presi-dent of the Association of Indians in America expressed his pleasure that Hamdard in action is impart-ing the very essence of what it means to support the community and also thanked acknowledged the efforts of Hamdard’s executive Director, Kiran Siddiqui.


1111November 04, 2011COMMUNITY

Grand Opening SpecialBIG TOE Foot Relax

(Professional foot Reflexology)

60 Minutes Foot Reflexology

(Head, Shoulder, Back, Waist & Hand Massage at no extra cost)

Chinese Traditional with Tibtan MedicineHand Massage at no extra cost)

Chinese Traditional with Tibtan MedicineHand Massage at no extra cost)

7215 #B Harwin Dr. Houston, TX 77036

(Head, Shoulder, Back, Waist &

Open 7 Days 10 am- 8 pm

Fond

ren

Fond

ren

Reg

ency

R

egen

cy

Sq

7215B

Harwin Dr.

Savo

y

Hilc

roft

Hilc

roft

N

$20$20

Tel: 832-398-5612Tel: 713-783-1069

Grand Opening SpecialBIG TOE Foot Relax

Special$20/hr

$100/6 TimeGrand Opening Special

BIG TOE Foot Relax

Wednesday’s

$18 only

straw Hat Pizza straw Hat Pizza s opens in Katyopens in KatyoKATY: Straw Hat Pizza cel-

ebrated their grand opening on Saturday, October 29 in Katy. 500 guests shared their congratulations with owners Ajit Patel and Adeeb Munir. Why Katy? Patel said the population is booming. And Straw Hat is an extremely popular pizza chain in the North US, but this is only their second franchise in Tex-as, the other being in Dallas.

As a part of their grand opening, Straw Hat Pizza offered 99 Cents individual pizzas with one topping with choice of four secret sauces and their special California style crust. Masala Radio’s Grand Opening Crew supplied the hype with the Masala Hummer, Bal-loons and DJ Zee mixing live.

All the ingredients are fresh and made from scratch at their restau-

rant. Apart from their delicious pizza, Straw Hat Pizza also serves burgers, sandwiches, pasta and all you can eat salad bar. They also serve veggie pasta and three kinds of veggie pizza. They can also

make Swaminarayan and Jain piz-za with their special sauce without onions and garlic!

For the month of November, Straw Hat Pizza is offering one 15 inch pizza with one topping for only $8.99. The owners welcome all Houstonians to try out their tasty California style pizza and full menu in a family atmosphere lo-cated on 5205 Mason Road, Suite 100, Katy, Texas 77450. Call in your orders at 281-398-9333.


IamNEWSis 30!

November 04, 201112 COMMUNITYThe Extraordinary Life and Times of Mahatma Gandhi

The Extraordinary Life and Times of Mahatma Gandhi is brought to you courtesy Mahatma Gandhi Library. www.gandhilibrary.org

— To be Continued

Gandhi sets Up Ambulance sets Up Ambulance s corps to Help British

Looking for a career? We are hiring!!! Paid Training!

Comprehensive Benefits! Abha Dwivedi (A.M.) LUTCF, FSS [email protected] or Cell: 281-650-3229

http;//myagla.com/abha Call for a quote on a

“Life Insurance you don’t have to die to use!”

6300 West Loop South Ste.600, Bellaire, TX, 77401 © 2011 All rights reserved.

The story thus far…Gandhi’s activism on behalf of the Indi-ans in South Africa, brought him much strife. The local Afrikaners and the British considered him as a troublemaker. He was attacked by angry mobs. With his calm de-meanor, he wins over the people, and even gets to help create an ambulance corps.

The Durban police rescued Gandhi from a bloodthirsty mob. He was escorted by the police to Rustomji’s house, where a doctor attended to his injuries.

“They are sure to calm down when they realize their mistake,” he said.

Late in the evening, another mob of white people surrounded the house. “We must have Gandhi,” angry voices demanded. The mob was getting more and more threat-ening.

“Give us Gandhi or we will bum down the house,” they shouted.

Gandhi knew that they might carry out their threat. To save his friend’s house, he slipped out in disguise, eluding the crowd. Two days later a message came from London. Joseph Chamberlain, then Secretary of State for the Colonies, asked the Natal Gov-ernment to prosecute every man guilty of attacking Gandhi. The Natal Government expressed its regret for the incident to Gandhi and assured him that the assailants would be punished. When Gandhi was called upon to identify the of-was called upon to identify the of-was called upon to identify the offenders, however, he would not do so.

“I do not want to prosecute any-one,” he told the Natal Govern-ment. “I do not hold the assailants to blame. They were misled by false reports about me and I am sure that when the truth becomes known they will be sorry for their conduct.”

Gandhi’s statement suddenly changed the atmosphere in Dur-ban. The press declared Gandhi in-nocent and condemned his assail-ants. The Durban incident raised Gandhi’s prestige and won more sympathy abroad for the Indians in South Africa. As the struggle in South Africa continued, a change was coming over Gandhi. He had begun with a life of ease and com-

fort, but this was short-lived. As he became more and more involved in public activities, his way of life became simpler. He started cut-ting down his expenses. He took to washing and ironing his own clothes, and he did it so badly at first that the other lawyers laughed at him. But soon he became quite an expert at this and his collars were no less stiff and shiny than theirs. Gandhi once went to an English barber in Pretoria. The barber insolently refused to cut a ‘black’ man’s hair. Gandhi at once bought a pair of clippers and cut his own hair. He succeeded more or less in cutting the front part but spoilt the back. He looked very funny and his friends in the court laughed at him.

“What’s wrong with your hair Gandhi? Have rats been gnawing at it?” they asked.

“No,” said Gandhi proudly, “I have cut my hair myself.” Then Gandhi tried changes in his food. He started taking uncooked food. He believed that if a man lived on fresh fruits and nuts he could master his passions and acquire spiritual strength. He made many experiments with his diet. He even came to the conclusion that fasting increased one’s will power. While he was thus experimenting with himself, the Boer war broke out. The Boers were South Africans of Dutch origin. They were fight-ing the British. Neither of these two white nations had treated the Indians well. Gandhi did not want to support either of them, but his familiarity with the British made him organize an Indian ambulance corps to help them.

To his puzzled followers, he said: “India can achieve complete emancipation only through devel-opment within the British Empire. Therefore we must help the Brit-ish.” The British won the war and the ambulance corps was disband-ed.

The newspapers in England praised the services rendered by the Indians. The relations between the Indians and the Europeans had now become more cordial, and the Indians believed that their griev-ances would soon be removed. It was now 1901, six years after Gandhi had brought his family to Durban. Now he felt that his future activity lay not in South Africa but in India. Also, friends in India were pressing him to return home. When he announced his decision to his co-workers, however, they again pressed him to stay on. After much discussion they agreed to let him go, but only if he would come back to South Africa if the Indians there needed his help. He agreed to this. There were farewell meetings and presentations of gifts. The gifts were so many and so valuable that Gandhi felt he should not accept them. The people who had pre-sented them would not take them back. He then prepared a trust deed, and all the gifts were depos-ited with a of the Indian communi-ty. On his arrival in India, Gandhi went on a tour of the country. The annual meeting of the Indian Na-tional Congress was being held in Calcutta under the presidentship of Dinshaw Wacha. Gandhi attended the session. It was his first contact with the Congress which he was to lead so gloriously in the future. The Indian National Congress was the only organization which gave the people of India a chance to ex-press their political views. It was an influential body, as many im-portant Indians were members, but its decisions had little affect on the Government.

At the Calcutta session in 1901 Gandhi had an opportunity to meet Congress leaders like Sir Pheroze-shah Mehta, Lokamanya B. G. Tilak, G. K. Gokhale, and others. He was not impressed with the way the Congress was functioning. He noticed a lack of unity among

the delegates. Moreover, while they spoke English and affected the style of Westerners in their dress and talk, they did not seem to bother about essential things like good sanitary facilities in the camp. Gandhi wanted to teach them a lesson. On his own he qui-etly started cleaning the bathroom

and urinals. No one volunteered to join him.

“Why do you undertake an un-touchable’s job?” they asked.

“Because the caste people have

made this an untouchable place,” replied Gandhi.

From Calcutta Gandhi trav-eled around India by train. As he moved from place to place, he was shocked to see the life of the common people – the famished, ignorant, and neglected masses. His heart was filled with sadness and anger. Gandhi settled down in Bombay and started practice as a lawyer. He did well, much better than he had expected. In Decem-ber 1902, however, a cable reached him from South Africa requesting him to return as promised. Joseph Chamberlain, the Colonial Secre-tary, was arriving from London on a visit to Natal and the Transvaal, and the Natal Indian Congress wanted Gandhi to present their case to him.

Board elections for Indian senior senior s citizens Associationcitizens AssociationcHOUSTON: The Indian Senior Citizens Association will hold

elections for the a new executive team to take over the reins from the outgoing team whose terms have expired. Elections will be held at Bayland Park Community Center on Beechnut and Hillcroft on Saturday November 12 for the seven seats on the Board of Direc-tors for the 2012-2013 term. Voting is open to all members of the ISCA.

The ISCA has grown steadily over the past few years as the desi population of first generation immigrants has aged and retired and comprises upto 800 people, with nearly 200 to 300 attending many of the events that the organization puts together. The ISCA hopes to continue with a progressive and dynamic leadership to lead this growing segment of the community and this requires a knowled-gable team willing to work hard.

About a dozen members are standing for the election. Based on early responses from some members, the team of five (Ravind Trivedi, Sudhir Mathuria, Devendra Patel and Nitin Vyas) led by Lalit M. Chinoy appears to be a favorite. Other members also run-ning are Arvind Patel, Shailesh Desai, Sheila Desai, Pankaj Shah, Mansuk Waghela, Bhagwandas Patel, Niranjana Patel and Ravi Arora.


1313November 04, 2011


November 04, 201114 RECIPE CORNER

To schedule an appointment please contact: 3223 SOUTH MAIN ST., STAFFORD, TX 77477

Ph: 281-969-8062

Result-Based Ayurvedic Therapy for Back, Neck and Shoulder Pain

Now available in Houston

Also Therapies to Alleviate Arthritis Slip Disc Joint Pains Migraine Sinusitis Obesity Frozen Shoulder Depression Insomnia Diabetes Psoriasis Eczema Hypertension etc.

For more details about our therapies please visit our website:

www.santhigramusa.com Toll free no. 1-888-KER-AYUR(537-2987

FRANCHISE ENQUIRIES SOLICITED Email inquiries to: [email protected]

For more recipes, visit www.zestyflavors.com or visit https://www.facebook.com/pages/Zestyflavors-Adding-Zest-to-your-Cook-ing/145518712165348

Also “LIKE” Zesty-flavors on FACE-BOOK.

Please send your feedback to [email protected]

Recipe by Vaishali Sharma

dal makhani (creamy Black Lentils)creamy Black Lentils)cDal Makhani is a traditional North In-

dian signature dish that is not only high in protein but is also very delicious. This particular black dal (Lentil) along with kid-ney beans is cooked on low flame & cream and/or butter is added to it for the lovely creamy texture. This dal is usually served with Tandoori Roti, Naan (types of indian breads) and even rice. This is the one of the most popular dishes ordered in Indian res-taurants.

The whole spices that are added to the dal gives lovely aroma and taste. Cinnamon sticks, green cardamom, black cardamom, bay leaves are those wonderful, aromatic spices.

Ingredients:1 cup black lentils (called whole urad

dal)1/4 cup red kidney beans (soaked for 2-3

hours in water)6 cups water

1/4 cup heavy cream2 tbsp butter3 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)1 medium onion2 tomatoes2 green chillies1 tbsp chopped ginger1-2 cloves chopped garlic1 no. black cardamom2 nos green cardamom2 small sticks of cinnamon1-2 small bay leavespinch of asafoetida1 tsp cumin seeds1 tsp coriander powder1/4 tsp garam masalasalt and red chilli powder- to taste1 tbsp of cream - for garnishfew coriander leaves- for garnishMethod:1. Pressure cook dal and kidney beans with

salt, black cardamom, green cardamom and cinnamon sticks for about 20 minutes on medium low flame. When you open the lid, check to make sure the kidney beans are soft and tender. If they are not, cook on low flame until they are done. You can add more wa-ter at this time depending on the amount of water left in the dal.

2. Add the heavy cream to the dal and let it cook on low flame while stirring in between.

3. In a food chopper, fine-ly chop onions, tomatoes, green chillies and garlic

cloves together.4. In a pan, heat 3 tbsp of ghee, add asa-

foetida and cumin seeds. When cumin seeds starts to change the color, add the bay leaves and ginger. Stir for 10-15 seconds and add the chopped onion tomato mixture.

5. Cook the onion tomatoes mixture for about 8-10 minutes and then add all the dry spices (salt, red chilli powder, coriander powder and garam masala). You can add a tbsp of water if the mixture is dry. Let the mixture cook while stirring until the ghee starts to leave from the sides. Switch off the gas.

6. Add the prepared mixture to the dal and mix well. Let dal cook for another 10-12 minutes on low flame. The dal when done should have a thick creamy texture.

7. Add the butter in the end and mix well.Garnish with cream and coriander leaves

right before serving. Serve hot with Roti, Naan, Parantha or Rice.


1515November 04, 2011COMMUNITYBook signing igning signing s event by vent by event by e nikhil nikhil n modi

Synopsis: American born nine-year-old American born nine-year-old Ooma and her little sister, six-year-old Meera, are about to take the old Meera, are about to take the adventure of a lifetime. Along with their family, they’re travtheir family, they’re traveling to a relative’s wedding in India to India to learn more about their heritage and cul-t u r e . It’s a trip they won’t soon forget!

Their first stop on a crowded t r a i n full of colorful passengers ac-quaints them with “squat” toilets, exotic f o o d s , and remnants of the British Raj rule. The sights are far removed from t h e i r comfortable Texas upbring-ing, but Ooma and Meera make the most of the experience, getting to know their other relatives—including their grandfather— in the process.

As they make their way to the Hi-malayas, they stop and tour the glorious Taj Mahal, the ruined city of Fatehpur Sikri, and the Hawa Mahal, the Pal-ace of Winds. But it is when they reach the magnificent, snow-capped Himalayan snow-capped Himalayan Mountains that the children feel t h e connection between their past their past and present.

It is fascinating to see how life-long It is fascinating to see how life-long memories and unbreakable bonds are created through these wanderings. A lot of human stories and quirky human behavior are entwined very skillfully on these pages. This novel not only will make you laugh but it will probably make you shed a tear or two.

Tales from the Himalayas will keep tugging at your heart, long after you finish the book.

So, put on your traveling shoes and get ready to be enthralled! Nikhil Modi

Saturday, November 12, 2011 from 3-5pm at River Oaks Book Store at 3270 Westheimer Road (at the junction of Westheimer and River Oaks Blvd).

For more information call Nikhil Modi at 281-660-5997

A limited number of tables are available. Email:[email protected] to reserve your table.A very limited number of discounted seats are still available for our Members, on a first come basis.

Members must call 713 624 7131 or email [email protected] to reserve their seats.


16 November 04, 201116 COMMUNITYMankind Dentistry of Katy

Dr. Sumit Jindal, DDS— General and Cosmetic Dentistry — Advanced Restorative Dentistry— Equipped with computerized injection technique— CAD / CAM Technology— CT Scan used for treatment planning— In house dental lab (Rush delivery, crown, bridge and dentures within 3 days)— All dental work guaranteedMost Major Insurances Accepted

• We accept Medicaid , CHIP• Free exam and consultation for the month of April, 2011• Easy Payment Plans available• 15% off for the Elderly and Disabled• Saturday Appointments available

“Keep a healthy mouth, Live a Healthy Life”

Mankind Dentistry of Katy
















818-517-9779


1717November 04, 2011


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

correspondentschicago: nand Kapoor, UK: aseem KUlKarni

new delhi: raj Kanwar

IndoIndoIndoAmerican American Am NewsFounder: dr. K.L. Sindwani

editor: Pramod KuLKarniBuSineSS manager: Jawahar maLhotra

managing Partner: KriShna giri

Community rePorter: KaLyani giriCommunity editor: manaSi goKhaLe

adminiStrative manager: vanShiKa viPinBuSineSS & reCreation: JaCoB david

graPhiC deSign: SaqiB rana

November 04, 201118 EDITORIALLying Figures

We all know about the half-empty glass also being the half-full glass. It’s about your disposition that makes you see the water in the glass either way. That, however, isn’t the case with mobile phones in India. Accord-ing to official figures - and we’re guessing that by ‘official’, it means mo-bile companies - India has 900 million cellphone users. A reality check in the form of figures released by the department of telecommunication says something else: we have 300 million mobile users. So who is this phantom 600 million? They are literally the ghosts of mobile phones past - cellphones that are no longer in use. Thus, and let’s tuck away our celebratory ringtones for a minute, India’s teledensity isn’t 75% (three out of every four persons), but 50% (one out of every two persons).

India’s ease with numbers is legendary. No one jacks them up or makes them sing a different tune like we do. The recent chin-scratching over how many poor people this country has became more a battle over decid-ing a nice spot to draw the poverty line rather than about head-counting to help. The biggest parlor trick, of course, is the one about India’s ‘demographic dividend’. The banner reads: ‘We have the number - 1.2 billion and counting - to take over the world, and 63% of this number are under 30. So watch out!’ But out of this sea of potential workforce, how many are really capable and qualified to do the work?

Everyone loves a Great India Success Story. So to point out anything that doesn’t quite match the script smacks, at best, of churlishness, and, at worst, sedition. Our defence to these charges would be: isn’t it more helpful if we take into consideration unpleasant truths, which, minus the hype, would be less unpleasant, and build our fancy house on solid ground? Hello? Oh, we’ve been speaking to a dead line.

Hindustan Times

stalled in the Airstalled in the AirsAir India is in trouble again. Nearly 120 of its pilots have threatened to

quit; 25 of them, on deputation to Air India Express, have already started reporting sick, causing considerable disruption in services, which are

likely to continue. Pre-vious problems with the airline’s pilots have centred on those who were, pre-merger, part of what was then

Indian Airlines, who believe that the conditions of the merger were discriminatory. This round of problems emerges from an association of 200 pilots who were with Air India pre-merger, and who object to those from Indian Airlines being trained to use the new Boeing 787 Dreamliner that the airline has bought. With touching concern for their fellow pilots, they worry that this will “stall their career progression”. Well, pilots worry about stalling. But Air India’s pilots are pretty unique in that they never seem to worry about stalling their airline.

Times of India

Tsunami in a Pakistani TeapotBy Ay Ay yesh Ayesh A AyeshAyesh siddiqAiddiqAiddiq

As the former cricket captain Imran Khan stood before the cheering crowd in Lahore at his rally on Sunday, October 30, he promised that support for him would prove to be a tsunami, sweeping away all that he considers as political deadwood and garbage. In what ap-peared a carefully choreographed show, Imran Khan challenged his main po-litical rivals: Pakistan’s president and the co-chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party, Asif Ali Zardari, and the two Sharif brothers in Punjab. He threatened them with a mass movement unless they de-clared their assets. Corruption is indeed one of the major issues that seems to have badly hurt Pakistan, especially in the past couple of decades, making it difficult for ordinary people to access facilities like electricity. Some of the major public-sector corporations are also sinking under the burden of corruption and nepotism.

But, more important, Pakistan is a country visibly burdened by ten years of the war on terror. To the ordinary Pakistani, the war has brought violence and disrepute, a situation that Imran Khan believes has not been improved by Pakistan’s partnership with the US in the war on terror. Khan promised the crowd he would never use the country’s army against its own people, as he said has happened at the behest of the Americans. He even taunted Zardari and Pakistan’s ambassador in the US, Hussain Haqqani, for seeking personal protection from the US government against the Pakistan army.

The Imran Khan apparent at the Sun-day rally is certainly a more confident leader; but his confidence also emanates from the realisation that there may be few gaps between him and the country’s all-powerful security establishment — which he was careful to not criticise during the political show. Many believe that his success on Sunday was partly a result of some silent support provided by the security apparatus. This is nothing peculiar in a country where a nod and a wink from the establishment has created leaders from Bhutto to Nawaz Sharif, and now, Imran Khan.

In fact, what seems likely is that the “Khan tsunami” may be localised for the time being and remain limited to parts of

urban Punjab and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), where it is intended to have the greatest impact. One wonders if it is sheer coincidence that the coming of age of the cricketer-turned-politician has coincided with the growing unhappiness of the country’s politicised army with Nawaz Sharif, a leader General Zia-ul-Haq picked up from the business community and turned into the “Lion of Punjab.” It’s vital for the establishment to keep control of, and watch over, Punjab, which many consider Pakistan’s heart.

Contrary to his claims of possibly sweeping the next general elections to be held in 2013, Khan is predicted to gain some ground in Punjab and KPK, and have only a relatively small impact on Sindh and Balochistan. Given his af-on Sindh and Balochistan. Given his af-on Sindh and Balochistan. Given his affinity with the Punjab-centric establish-ment, there is little likelihood of the PTI chief persuading the Baloch to renounce their resistance, or the army to change its policy of coercion in the province. Sindh, on the other hand, will remain dominated by the politics of the PPP and the MQM.

Although there are many issues on which Khan needs to show clarity and a visible plan that would add to his rheto-ric, the fact remains that he represents a new promise for young and increas-ingly urbanising Pakistan. More than his party, Imran himself represents a mellow brand of political Islam, one that is not influenced by the rabid Deobandism-

Wahhabism, but has a more inclusive character. In many ways, the coming of Imran Khan harks back to the political theory of Mohammad Iqbal and the struggle for Pakistan. Imran Khan’s for-struggle for Pakistan. Imran Khan’s for-struggle for Pakistan. Imran Khan’s formula does not disown religion, or talk of liberalism-secularism, which many find alien in today’s Pakistan.

However, the real test for the cricketer-politician is to make sure that his socio-political agenda remains inclusive rather than exclusive. The shade of Sufi-Islam-ic philosophy as a source of his political Islam may give rise to some hope. It’s also worth mentioning that his sympathy for the Taliban is not driven by pure radi-calism but his peculiar understanding of the WoT and American politics in the region. There are numerous issues that need greater clarity — including what his regional policy would be. Will he be inspired to build regional ties, or will he take directions from his technicolour-haired, hawkish foreign policy advisor, the journalist Shireen Mazari?

A popular conclusion drawn by many in the media is that Imran Khan has ar-in the media is that Imran Khan has ar-in the media is that Imran Khan has arrived. Despite no one being sure how many seats he will manage in the next general elections, his success on Sun-day should make the older parties and political players more thoughtful about the future.

Indian ExpressThe writer is a security analyst based

in Islamabad

PTI chief Imran Khan addresses a rally in Lahore on October 30, 2011 PHOTO : AFP


19

Dallas Office: 15950 North Dallas Parkway, Suite 400 Dallas, Texas 75248

Tel 214-281-8900

IMMIGRATION H-1B, TN, L and E VISAS, PERM LABOR, EB-2

I-140, Green Card and Appeals

FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION

Rahul V. Reddy, Attorney at Law [email protected]

Emily S. Neumann, Attorney at Law [email protected]

REDDY & NEUMANN, P.C.

www.rnlawgroup.com

Houston Office: 11000 Richmond Ave, Suite 100 Houston, Texas 77042

Tel: 713-953-7787

19November 04, 2011EDITORIAL INDIA

Desi Nany needed for Twins (boy & girl). Two month old,

in Baytown, TX.Mon - Fri, 5:30AM-6:30PM.

Live in or Live out.

Please Contact:

(713)962-3716

Help Wantedcorruption scandals, scandals, smarket drops Hit India’s richrichr

By heheh AtherAtherA timmons(NYT) India’s 100 richest are nearly

$60 billion poorer than they were last year, Forbes said Thursday in its annual wealth survey.

Corruption scandals and allegations of wrongdoing, as well as the overall drop in India’s stock market, were often to blame. The combined wealth of country’s top earners fell 20 percent from last year, Forbes said, to $241 billion.

The 2G telecom scandal and related investigations trimmed the net worth of — among others — Anil Ambani, chairman of Reliance Group, Unitech’s Ramesh Chandra, Swan Telecom pro-moters Vinod Goenka and Shahid Usman Balwa, and Kalanithi Maran, chairman of Sun Network.

The people who appeared to avoid scandal were rewarded. Airtel’s Sunil Bharti Mittal, for example, with a net worth of $8.8 billion, is one of the few telecom executives untouched by the 2G scandal. He is also one of the few to see his ranking rise this year on the Forbes list (up three spots to number six), and his net worth increase (by $200 million).

Dilip Shanghvi, who controls Sun Phar-Dilip Shanghvi, who controls Sun Phar-Dilip Shanghvi, who controls Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, was this year’s top dollar gainer, with a $1.5 billion increase to put his net worth at $6.7 billion. Mr. Ambani of Reliance Group was the year’s biggest loser, with a $7.4 billion drop in net worth.

Of the top 10 on the list, only a few, includ-ing Mr. Mittal, Wipro’s Azim Premji, steel baron Lakshmi Mittal and Ku-mar Birla, chairman of the Aditya Birla group, have been untouched, even pe-ripherally, by widespread investigations into cor-ruption and illegal activity under way in India’s courts in the past year.

Number-one ranked Mukesh Ambani’s net worth fell $4.4 billion, to $22.6 billion, in part because of reports the government will inves-tigate how his Reliance Industries operates in an off-shore oil and gas field known as K.G. Basin.

Brothers Shashi and

Ravi Ruia, ranked number four with a combined wealth of $10.5 billion, are minority owners in Loop Telecom, which was investigated earlier this year in con-nection with the 2G case. Their net worth fell $4.5 billion from a year ago.

Gautam Adani’s Adani Enterprises dropped in value after local papers re-ported that it was featured in the Kar-ported that it was featured in the Kar-ported that it was featured in the Karnataka ombudsman’s yet-to-be released

Vinod Goenka, who was last year ranked as the 54th richest Indian by Forbes was arrested in April 2011.Photo: Pankaj Nangia

report on illegal mining in the state. Adani is ranked the seventh-wealthiest person in India, with a net worth of $8.2 billion, down from $10.7 billion last year. He denies any involvement1 in illegal mining.

One-third of Savitri Jindal’s family fortune evaporated in the past year, leav-ing one of the list’s few women ranked number five with a net worth of $9.5 billion, down from $14.4 billion last year. One son’s JSW Steel cut production after the Supreme Court banned iron ore min-ing in Karnataka. Her other son’s Jindal Steel & Power is accused of operating a coal processing plant without the right environmental clearances.

Number 10-ranked Adi Godrej is among those untouched by scandal but still affected by it. He took over the chairmanship of India School of Busi-ness this year, replacing Rajat Gupta, who was criminally charged yesterday for his role in the Galleon Group insider trading case.

The Forbes list does not include some of India’s wealthiest politicians. The fam-ily wealth of Kamal Nath was declared this September at 263 crore rupees, or $54 million, making him the wealthiest Union minister. But the figure is still well below the $370 million net worth necessary to climb on to the Forbes richest 100 list.

Subscribe to Indo-American News Today

Name: ____________________________________

Phone: ____________________________________

Address:___________________________________

__________________________________________

Number of Years: 1 2 5 10 Lifetime(circle one) $30 $58 $130 $277 $399

Credit Card: Master Card / Visa (Circle One)

_________________________________________

Exp Date: ___/___ 3 digit code:______Your Signature:______________________________________________________

We cover your world!

Do cut and mail to: 7457 Harwin Dr, Ste 262, Houston, TX 77036 (OR) Scan and E-mail to:[email protected] • Call us at 713-789-6397 • Call us to sign up for E-mail BlastIndo-American News is community oriented. We thank you for your subscription & support.

Indo-American News • Friday, July 31, 2009

Friday, July 31 2009 | Vol. 28, No. 3150¢Indo

American News READ US ONLINE atwww.indoamerican-news.comPublished weekly from Houston, TX7457 Harwin Dr, Suite 262, Houston, TX 77036Ph: 713.789.NEWS (6397) • Fax: 713.789.6399 • [email protected]

Circulation Verified by

American

Ambassador Meera Shankar visits Houston Page 11

NRI nvestors Lose Money to Maytas Properties in India

Chilled Watermelon SoupPage 26

4

Page 11to Maytas Properties in India

Watermelon to Maytas Watermelon to Maytas

SoupProperties in SoupProperties in India

SoupIndiaPage 26IndiaPage 26India

4

Ambassador Meera Shankar visits Houston NRI nvestors Lose Money

to Maytas Chilled

Lose Money Chilled Lose Money

Watermelon to Maytas Watermelon to Maytas

BollywoodShows4U Brings EXPLOSION 2009 to HoustonHOUSTON: Sonu Nigam, Suni-dhi Chauhan and Hard Kaur are set to make a stunning appearance in the Explosions event organized by the Explosions event organized by Bollywood Shows 4 U conducted Bollywood Shows 4 U conducted by Moid Khan. The event is set to by Moid Khan. The event is set to be held at the Reliant Arena on be held at the Reliant Arena on August 7, 2009.

has the movie helped or hurt

india’s image?

slumdog millionaire

NRI Investors Lose Money to Maytas Properties in India Page 21

Moid Khan Moid Khan informed

that Houston that Houston residents have residents have been waiting for a been waiting for a long time to see the long time to see the live performance of live performance of Sonu Nigam. BollySonu Nigam. Bolly-Sonu Nigam. Bolly-Sonu Nigam. Bollywoodshows4u is woodshows4u is bringing the bringing the

performperform-perform-perform

IACCGH Helps to HirePage 5

B P KHOUSTON: If there’s one recent movie that has polarized opinions about India, it is Slumdog Mil-lionaire. The movie has all the el-ements of entertainment designed to glue you to your seat – shock, awe, amusement, disgust, true love and inspiration. Some people have seen movie several times, each time moved to tears and joy. There are a few others, however, who could not get past the slum kid’s jump into the cesspool or the blinding of a child.More than 120 people with prob-ably 200 opinions about the movie assembled at a town hall meeting held at India House last Sunday afternoon.The town hall meeting was orThe town hall meeting was or-ganized by the Foundation for India Studies at the University of

Houston. The Foundation could Houston. The Foundation could not have chosen a better topic not have chosen a better topic to raise awareness among Indo-Americans in Houston about its Americans in Houston about its Indian studies programs. Prior to the discussion of the film, Parul the discussion of the film, Parul Fernandes and Krishna Vavilala explained that the Foundation is currently conducting Hindi

is currently conducting Hindi Level I and Level II courses as Level I and Level II courses as well as classes on Hinduism, Jainism and the Anthropology of Jainism and the Anthropology of India. The Foundation has also India. The Foundation has also received support from Indian government’s Ministry of Over-seas Indians to fund a Chair for

seas Indians to fund a Chair for Indian studies at UH.An 11-minute clip of Slumdog An 11-minute clip of Slumdog Millionaire, edited by Anil Ku-mar, was screened to stimulate

mar, was screened to stimulate the discussion. The clip included the discussion. The clip included scenes depicting negative aspects of India such as religious dishar-mony, child prostitution, and po-lice brutality. These scenes were

lice brutality. These scenes were followed by uplifting scenes in followed by uplifting scenes in

ers to Houston thus making Houstonians dreams come true, by organizing “Explosion 2009” Concert. “Explosion 2009 will be giving “Explosion 2009 will be giving Houston residents a night long Houston residents a night long non-stop session of rock-

non-stop session of rock-non-stop session of rocking Bollywood melodies, ing Bollywood melodies, promising one of the promising one of the most memorable musi-cal treats like never cal treats like never witnessed before.For tickets log on For tickets log on to www.bollywood-to www.bollywood-to www.bollywood

shows4u.com or shows4u.com or call 281-235-

4711.

The Queen is Dead

Maharani Gayatri Devi passes away at the age of 90Read all about it inside.

Ambassador Meera

Shankar Visits

Houston Page 11

Central Texas Temple Grows Page 6

& Pure Vegetarian RestaurantBOMBAY SWEETS Lunch & Dinner Buffet

21 Hot & cold items

available All you can eat -

7 days a week

$6.99$6.99$6.99$6.99$6.99$6.99$6.99$6.99$6.99$6.99$6.995827 Hillcroft, Houston Texas 77036

Mouth watering Indian dishes & ChatsCatering available for all occasions100+ varities of sweets

PH:713-780-4453Dosas & SnacksSamosas & Chats

Ope

n 7

days

a w

eek

Mouth watering Indian dishes & Chats


Advertise with us

Call 832-368-4012

Want to Buy Your Dream Home?Want to Save Money on Your Existing Home?TIME IS NOW!! RATES ARE LOW!!

Want to Buy Your Dream Home?Want to Buy Your Dream Home?Want to Save Money on Your Existing Home?Want to Save Money on Your Existing Home?TIME IS NOW!! RATES ARE LOW!!TIME IS NOW!! RATES ARE LOW!!

CALL Krishnan @ 713-579-7222email – [email protected] – [email protected]

Visit us at www.sutherlandmortgage.comCall Sutherland Mortgage

Visit us at www.sutherlandmortgage.comCall Sutherland Mortgage

Visit us at www.sutherlandmortgage.com

Sutherland Mortgage Services Inc.Sutherland Mortgage Services Inc.

Low Rates • New Home Purchase • Refi nance or Cash Out Refi nance • FHA/ Conventional/ Reverse Mortgage • Over 10 years

of lending experience

NMLS #20770

Krishnan Swaminathan3701 Briarpark Dr. Ste. 150Houston, TX 77042

NMLS # 9891NMLS # 9891

November 04, 201120 BUSINESSshridhar shridhar s subramaniam: The subramaniam: The s counterculture Perk

The president of Sony Music India talks rock while taking Bollywood music global(Outlook) A bunch of audio engineers

fiddle with complicated machines on the left while a group of musicians informally gather on stage to perform. Cigarette smoke rises from another corner, cover-smoke rises from another corner, cover-smoke rises from another corner, covering in its wake a not-so-subtle sign that discourages smoking in the hall. On the right, a small bar lists the prices of a range of beverages. Thick wires run across the room near the entrance, taped to the floor, ensuring that those who do not tread carefully are likely to make a flying entrance.

K.C. Loy and his band of boys sing Aai No. 1 in Marathi followed by Hariyali Chhayi Hai in Hindi. Young boys walk in and out with great urgency, most of them with long hair or Bandra-style haircuts, in dark T-shirts, keds and torn jeans. This is the setting for Live from the Console, Sony Music’s monthly attempt to revive indie music, at Mehboob Studios in Ban-dra, Mumbai.

I am 30 minutes late but Shridhar Subramaniam, president, Sony India and Middle East, of Sony Music, is more than an hour late. We decide to blame, rightly, the Bandra fair which has started that day and clogged all the roads leading into the suburb. Two glasses of beer arrive, in plastic glasses, as is the norm at rock con-certs, before we find a quiet room away from intense musicians.

Subramaniam is slim, wearing a dark shirt, Ray-Ban spectacles, and bursting with energy. The 47-year-old can barely hide an innate restlessness and passion for music, which is now also his profession. “I am not the con-tent, happy kind of guy,” he says. “I am a committed, start-up kind of guy. I don’t like to worry about a rocket’s trajectory; I say let’s just get it off the ground first.”

His instincts for start-ups show in his career choices—he joined Titan and Sony Music India when they started. But for a restless person, he has ironically stayed with just two companies. He joined Titan in 1988, when they came into the market with Timex watches and later the Fastrack series, and has been with Sony Music since its inception in India in 1996. “Headhunters call me and say, will you ever leave? But it goes back to values—Titan established character and values and now it’s my turn to instil that in Sony.”

This is again a contradiction to the rebellious streak that Subramaniam says he had growing up in Mumbai, with a love for rock music and read-ing. His father Shiv, a self-made man who was in the Indian Revenue Ser-who was in the Indian Revenue Ser-who was in the Indian Revenue Service, with Nehruvian ideals of nation building, was not always in favour of his son’s musical inclinations.

“We have gone through the stages of teenage angst when he would lock up my records,” remembers Sub-ramaniam, of days when he would trade in records, lounge with friends older than him, have the “Pink Floyd experience” and head to Eros Cinema for a 10am show of Woodstock. Most friends were in bands, he says—his biggest regret was not having learnt an instrument.

“You know how it is, if I was inter-“You know how it is, if I was inter-“You know how it is, if I was inter

ested in Carnatic music, things would have been different. It tends to happen in families of second-third generation with their sense of value systems be-ing challenged.”

In certain respects, he followed the conventional academic path. A degree from Mumbai’s Sydenham College of Commerce was followed by an MBA at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, US. College meant blowing up a semester chasing the Grateful Dead and Bob Dylan—“for me, being in the US was about music,” he says.

Subramaniam’s decision to return to India in 1988 had something to do with his innate Indian-ness, because the practice in those days was to follow up graduate school with a one-way ticket to Silicon Valley, as his brother Sundar did. Subrama-niam took one look at Mumbai and decided it could not be his life. His father was posted in Kolkata, but that did not work either. Someone suggested Bangalore, with its green boulevards and lovely weather, and Subramaniam headed south, to Ti-tan’s offices.

“Even when I came back and started working, I had not grown up in the truest sense, in the sense of having a purpose,” he says. That changed when he met Xerxes Desai, Titan’s former managing director and vice-chairman. “He is my mentor, the teacher I never had. He threw me into the deep end having absolute confidence and faith and let me swim with it,” Subramaniam says. This included launching Titan in Europe, getting into the luxury business with its jewellery division Tanishq and doing all the “swish, French stuff”

for three years from 1994.His hardest decision was to tell

Desai about his decision to quit when the opportunity to join Sony came in 1996. He got a few words of advice: Be careful about making your passion your profession. At some point you will lose one.

If his first job interview at Sony in their US office was slightly surreal—on the 32nd floor, with a sushi res-taurant around, and Billy Joel lurking somewhere—the second, with the Asian head, was weirder. “In a girlie bar in Bangkok, in Thailand. Here I am, in front of a pole, and you are talking to me about what you want to do in India?” he says, laughing.

This was a time when the likes of Alisha Chinai and Baba Sehgal were rocking newly instituted countdowns on fresh television channels in India, like MTV. It was also a time when audio companies were not run profes-sionally and several labels were vying for a slice of the growing market. Over time, not only did that brand of Indian rock-pop-hip hop merge into film music, but many of the labels disappeared too. “Between Bollywood and pop, the former was more remunerative. It just sucked up all the talent, from music, advertising. At a $2 billion (around Rs9,600 crore) business, you can buy all the talent,” says Subramaniam.

“People falsely accuse the music industry for this singularity of what music is put on now,” he continues. “It’s not the music companies, it’s the media: Their fixation with all things Bollywood is incredible and depressing.”

But there is hope, because the “beauty about music”—and Subra-maniam uses the word beauty often—that drove him and continues to drive generations “is the counterculture rebellious component attached to it. Cinema is not a counterculture busi-ness. Music is. I like something my parents don’t. It’s a separating line, it’s a divider,” he says.

The counterculture lives in pockets, one of these being Sony’s newly started Live from the Console, where the company invites and pays musi-cians to play one Saturday a month. Set in Mehboob Studios, with 200-300 people attending after buying inexpensive tickets, the event gives Subramaniam another reason to feel proud and happy. “Why I enjoy Sony is because the music business allows you to do these super-cool things.”

With a 16-18% market share of a $200 million industry in India, Sub-ramaniam is looking for the “magic sweet spot”, which is 25%.

That’s the reason why the company is stepping into regional zones—it entered Tamil Nadu three years ago and will soon be in Punjab. He still wants to take Bollywood music global, a journey that started with the company’s first Indian product, A.R. Rahman’s Maa Tujhe Salaam.

“For every hit, we have had misses, an equal number of wrong calls. The humbling component, it comes in the hit rate,” says Subramaniam.

Subramaniam listens to music for about 4 hours every day on his Spotify device, a music streaming service. By Jayachandran/Mint


2121November 04, 2011BUSINESS

Spearheading the cause of Hindustani Classical Music & the MusiciansA Non-Profit & Tax-Exempt 501 (C) (3) Organization

Presents

[email protected] 281 236 9822

in

Fascinating portrayal of the unique Time-Cycle Theory in Hindustani Classical Raagas

Saturday, 19th November 2011, 4-30pm, Old Stafford Civic Center, Stafford, Texas

Free Admissions Seating at 4-15pm Donations/Contributions are fully tax-deductible

11515 Legend Manor Drive, Houston TX 77082 Ph: 281 212 3544 Email: [email protected]

At an event recently, actress Sonakshi Sinha seems to have been caught on the wrong foot.

salman Khan upset with sonakshi sinha?sinha?s

The actress was launched by Salman Khan in ‘Dabangg’ and much appreciated for her role in the film. Of course, the girl insists she remains indebted to Salman for the big break. However, her closeness to Salman Khan have made all and sundry think that she is in fact a part of the Sallu camp.

At an event recently, the lady was asked what she would do if she was offered a movie with SRK, especially since she’s a part of Salman’s camp? Sonakshi clarified that she isn’t a part of any camp and doesn’t believe in the camp culture. She also said that she would love to work with anybody and everybody. Of course, working with Shah Rukh would be a dream come true for the damsel.

It’s heard that Salman Khan is miffed with this statement of hers. However, with both of them coming together in ‘Kick’ and ‘Dabangg 2’, Sonakshi will have enough time to explain her point of view and sort out this mess.

damadammStory: Himesh is the star employee

in a film production company and has a live-in girlfriend too. Life looks good except for the fact that the girlfriend is over possessive and loves to keep him on a tight leash.

When she goes on a family trip to Indore, Himesh suddenly discovers the joys of freedom and finds a new friend in Sonal Sehgal, the proprietor’s sister. Will he be able to get back to his old, suffocating relationship?

Movie Review: Ironically, it’s the songs of the film which stand out much more than the script, narrative, drama and performances. Umrao Jaan, Madhushala and the title track are extremely peppy numbers which suddenly infuse life in an otherwise comatose film. So what does this prove? While Himesh remains an excellent music director, his acting skills will always remain largely a one-man belief: his own.

ovie

A stylized thriller among the new wave of Indian films paying homage to the seminal Indian action genre, Force combines state-of-the-art fight sequences and thrills with an original romantic narrative, delivering an abundance of on-screen energy and vigour that will have audiences gripped from the opening sequence to the end credits.

Directed by the critically acclaimed, Filmfare and National Award winning Nishikant Kamat ‘Force’ is a contemporary action romance and a Hindi reinterpretation of the Tamil blockbuster, ‘ Kaakha Kaakha ‘, which achieved widespread popularity among audiences and critics alike.

Force

MReviews

ENTERTAINMENT


November 04, 201122 INDIAreal Life ‘real Life ‘r slumdog slumdog s millionairemillionairem

Sushil Kumar had earned $ 120 a month, plans to use money for civil service exam prep courseMUMBAI (DNA): Hailing from the

state of Bihar, Sushil Kumar became the first person to win five crore rupees in the TV game show Kaun Banega Crorepati,.

A computer operator and tutor by pro-fession, Kumar is the first person to win the coveted prize in this season of the show.

The host, Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan, praised Kumar for his deter-Bachchan, praised Kumar for his deter-Bachchan, praised Kumar for his determination and confidence.

“Today, he has come and won five crore in the show, which is the top prize. Any person can achieve a lot, if he takes upon any challenge and is determined to achieve something in life. He is a living example of this theory,” said Bachchan.

Sushil Kumar, left, with Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan, shows his $1 million check after his appearance on the popular Indian version of “Who wants to be a Millionaire.”

Kumar, a small-town man was pleasantly sur-man was pleasantly sur-man was pleasantly surprised to win the prize and was even happier to meet Bachchan, who is one of his favourite actors.

“I had not even thought that I would be able to win such a huge amount and I

haven’t thought about what I am going to do. First of all, I don’t own a house; my house is not in a good shape. So, when I came here, I had thought that I would get my house renovated, but now I am going to get a new house,” said Kumar.

“It is a very big thing for me to meet Amitabh Bachchan. I used to see him

on the television, so when I came here I touched his feet because I was unsure if I would be able to reach this stage, since ‘Fastest Finger First’ is very tough and there is no guarantee if one would play the game, even if he is very knowledgeable. So, I hugged him and I think this is a big achievement for me,” he added.

mukesh Ambani: mukesh Ambani: m richest Indianrichest IndianrDELHI (SI): Mukesh Ambani, who heads the oil-to-retail conglomerate Reliance

Industries Group, has retained his position as the world’s richest Indian with a net worth of $22.6 billion, as per the Forbes India annual rich list.

Despite a fall of $4.4 billion in his net worth over the past one year, Ambani managed to hold the top slot.

He is followed by steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal and technology czar Azim Premji, as per the list published on Thursday by the Indian edition of global business magazine Forbes.

Mittal was ranked second with a net worth of $19.2 billion, while Premji was at the third position with $13 billion of net worth, Forbes said.

The 100 richest persons in the country together saw their net worth falling by 20 per cent in one year, to $241 billion, as inflation, corruption scandals and falling stock and currency prices diminished their wealth.

The list comprises 57 billionaires, a dozen less than the last year.Forbes said that Mukesh’s younger brother Anil Ambani saw the big-

gest erosion in his wealth in absolute terms, while power producer Lanco Infratech’s Madhusudan Raw was the biggest loser in percentage terms as his net worth fell by 78 per cent during the past one year.

Anil Ambani’s net worth declined by $7.4 billion to $5.9 billion and he “slipped out of the top 10 for the first time since his 2004 debut”. He was ranked 13th in this year’s list.

In the top-five, Mukesh Ambani, Lakshmi Mittal and Azim Premji were followed by Essar group’s Shashi and Ravi Rua ($10.2 billion at 4th posi-tion) and Savitri Jindal ($9.5 billion at 5th).

Others in the top 10 include Sunil Mittal ($8.8 billion at 6th position), Gau-tam Adani ($ 8.2 billion, 7th), Kumar Mangalam Birla ($7.7 billion, 8th), Pallonji Mistry ($7.6 billion, 9th) and Adi Godrej ($6.8 billion, 10th).

This year’s list included 14 new faces and the richest debutante was the founder and CEO of the London-listed oil and gas firm Indus Gas -- Ajay Kalsi, at the 38th position with a net worth of $1.39 billion.

Father-son duo Kapil and Rahul Bhatia of travel group, InterGlobe En-terprises, made their debut at position 51, with a net worth of $1.09 billion after their budget carrier IndiGo became India’s third-largest and most profitable airline.

Also debuting on the list was V G Siddhartha, ranked 84th with a net worth of $595 million, and founder of coffee shop retail chain Cafe Coffee Day.

Naazneen Karmali, India Editor of Forbes Asia, said: “This has been a turbulent year for India?s richest. Despite the economy growing at close to 8 percent, a spate of corruption scandals and rising inflation have taken a toll.”

Indrajit Gupta, Editor of Forbes India, said: “Even though it’s been another tough year for the wealthiest Indian entrepreneurs on the 2011 India Rich List, the fact that there are as many as 14 new entrants is a clear pointer to the exciting and diverse business opportunities in this part of the world.”

The magazine said that the net worth of persons on the list are based on share prices and exchange rates as on October 12 and privately held com-panies were valued on the basis of their comparison with similar publicly traded firms.

The net worth figures of individuals also include family fortunes, it added.


2323November 04, 2011INDIA

10704 - A Fm 1960 Rd West, Houston, TX 77070

2819705400

parinaza boutique

(281) 979-270710704-A FM 1960 W Houston, TX 77070Jasni Vohra (Jas)

Salwar Kameez / SareesPunjabi Jutti and

Kolhapuri ChappalsClutches and Pothli Bags

Ethnic Jewlery Pieces

Join us on Facebook

“MASALA WOK IS HOT.IT’S COOL, IT’S WOW”

Dallas Morning News

LOCATION10001 Westheimer Road. Houston, TX 77042

Phone: 713-784-8811www.MasalaWok.com

“THIS WOK ROCKS WITH INDIAN AND CHINESE FLAVORS”

SAYS THE GUIDE

The dropouts’ storystorysBy K.C.y K.C.y deepiKAeepiKAeepi

(Hindu) Forget research and Ph.Ds. In Kar-(Hindu) Forget research and Ph.Ds. In Kar-(Hindu) Forget research and Ph.Ds. In Karnataka, only 12.2 per cent of those who have completed pre-university/12th Standard join college. These astounding facts have been made available in a study conducted by the Karnataka Knowledge Commission on ‘The gross enrol-ment ratio in higher education in Karnataka’.

As per the data, only 9.47 lakh of the 77.5 lakh students go on to join college. The calculated gross enrolment ratio (GER) for 2010-11 indi-cates that 87.78 per cent of the population in the age group of 18 to 23 are outside the purview of higher education.

The present GER is not a dramatic improve-ment from what it was. The GER in India in 2006 was 11. This was way less compared to the U.S. (82), Australia and Brazil (73), the U.K. (59), China (22) and South Africa (15). There is a substantial discrepancy between the number of students who are eligible to enrol in higher studies, and the number of those who actually do. Out of 56.7 per cent of eligible candidates, only 12.22 per cent are pursuing their higher studies.

The EER (eligible enrolment ratio) indicates that 43.3 per cent who have not completed higher secondary have not enrolled for higher education.

The differenceGER is an index which measures the enrol-

ment in higher education over the population in the age group of 18 to 23. EER, on the other hand, is the index which measures the enrolment in higher education over the eligible population – pass-outs at the 12th Standard or higher secondary level (the pass-outs from the State pre-university board for the years 2006-10 were summated for this).

Male vs. femaleThe Commission’s findings also validate an-

other strong trend – that of more males having the privilege of education than females. Both the EER and GER of males are higher than that of females. The male GER stands at 14 per cent, as opposed to 10.38 of females. This means that for the 5.52 lakh males enrolled in higher education, only 3.95 lakh females are enrolled.

University dataAmong the State universities, Bangalore

University (BU) has the highest GER of 13.88, while the least is of Davangere University. BU tops in terms of enrolment and the number of affiliated colleges. BU has the highest enrol-ment per college with 458, while Mangalore University has the least enrolment per college with 142.

The GER of specialised universities is dismal – a measly one per cent, while the EER is five per cent. Among these, Visvesvaraya Technical University (VTU) has the highest GER due to the enrolments in engineering courses. The en-

Students discontinue studies for a variety of reasons like financial problems, wrong guidance, parental pressure

rolment for Ph.D. is very minute – 0.003 per cent of total enrolments. Here too, male enrolment is 2.52 times more than female enrolment.

Arts still topsAmong streams, Arts holds the sway in both

undergraduate and postgraduate courses. In un-dergraduate courses, the enrolment percentage for arts courses is about 33.7 per cent, followed by commerce, science, engineering and man-agement. A less favoured course is agriculture, with a share of 0.29 per cent.

At the postgraduate level, arts continues its dominance with 32.7 per cent, while science has a 19 per cent share. Law has the least demand.

ReasonsSo, what is it that forces these students to opt

out of studying further?As per the Commission’s study, the reasons

can vary from being as serious as financial problems and non-availability of colleges in the locality, to as bizarre as not finding any meaning in studying and following the path of friends who have discontinued studies.

The other reasons include marriage plans, lack of guidance on what to study, health problems, parents’ pressure to discontinue, repeated failure in exams and household work.

RecommendationsThe panel from the Knowledge Commission came

up with some recommendations for the discourag-ing enrolment figures. Among the recommenda-tions are extending financial support, restructuring courses and revamping courses such as B.A., B.Sc and B.Com, establishing ‘district higher education councils,’ establishing linkages among primary, secondary and higher education, and developing common data formats and maintaining them for decision making.


November 04, 201124 SENIOR HEALTH

(To be continued)

medicaid is Health Insurance that Helps many People who can’t Afford medicaid is Health Insurance that Helps many People who can’t Afford mmedical medical m care Pay for some or all of their medical Billsmedical Billsm

Sudhir Mathuria, a Houstonian for over 30 years, has been an active participant in various community associations.

He is a licensed proffesional for Medi-He is a licensed proffesional for Medi-He is a licensed proffesional for Medicare and Medicaid related health care plans. He can be reached by phone at 713-771-2900 or via email at [email protected].

For more information, visit: www.My-For more information, visit: www.My-For more information, visit: www.MyMedicarePlanning.com

Are you Enrolled?Are you Enrolled?

√ Do you know your Medicare Choices? Do you know your Medicare Choices? √ Is Health Club Membership benefit important? √ Do you have the right plan that serves your need? √ Is your Medicare Plan cost effective? √ Do you want to know which plans provide Dental Vision coverage and over the counter medicines?

Don’t miss out...Don’t miss out...

2012 Medicare Annual Enrollmenthas begun and will end on December 7, 2011...has begun and will end on December 7, 2011...

SUDHIR MATHURIAMathuria Associates

TEL: 713-771-2900Email: [email protected]

www.MyMedicarePlanning.com SUDHIR MATHURIALicensed Professional

Call me today for an annual review of your current Call me today for an annual review of your current Medicare Health Plan and select the best option for 2012.Medicare Health Plan and select the best option for 2012.

" Medicare Advantage Plan for Medicare / Medicaid " Medicare Advantage Plan for Medicare / Medicaid " Medicare Advantage Plan for Medicare / Medicaid " Medicare Advantage Plan for Medicare / Medicaid " Medicare Advantage Plan for Medicare / Medicaid " Medicare Advantage Plan for Medicare / Medicaid Member or Suplement with Part D Drug Plan"Member or Suplement with Part D Drug Plan"Member or Suplement with Part D Drug Plan"Member or Suplement with Part D Drug Plan"Member or Suplement with Part D Drug Plan"Member or Suplement with Part D Drug Plan"

Enroll Today!!!

We represent all major Medicare health plans companies.

Are you Enrolled?

By sudhir mAmAm thuriAthuriA AthuriAthuriGood health is important to every-

one. If you can’t afford to pay for medical care right now, Medicaid can make it possible for you to get the care that you need so that you can get healthy – and stay healthy.

Medicaid is available only to certain low-income individuals and families who fit into an eligibility group that is recognized by federal and state law. Medicaid does not pay money to you; instead, it sends payments directly to your health care providers. Depending on your state’s rules, you may also be asked to pay a small part of the cost (co-payment) for some medical services.

Medicaid is a state administered program and each state sets its own guidelines regarding eligibility and services.

Many groups of people are cov-ered by Medicaid. Even within these groups, though, certain requirements must be met. These may include your age, whether you are pregnant, disabled, blind, or aged; your income and resources (like bank accounts, real property, or other items that can be sold for cash); and whether you are a U.S. citizen or a lawfully admitted immigrant. The rules for counting your income and resources vary from state to state and from group to group. There are special rules for those who live in nursing homes and for disabled children living at home.

Your child may be eligible for coverage if he or she is a U.S. citizen or a lawfully admitted immigrant, even if you are not (however, there is a 5-year limit that applies to lawful permanent residents). Eligibility for children is based on the child’s status, not the parent’s. Also, if someone else’s child lives with you, the child may be eligible even if you are not because your income and resources will not count for the child.

In general, you should apply for Medicaid if your income is low and you match one of the descriptions of the Eligibility Groups. (Even if you are not sure whether you qualify, if you or someone in your family needs health care, you should apply for Medicaid and have a qualified caseworker in your state evaluate your situation.)

Screening ToolsTo help you see if you may be

eligible for a variety of governmen-tal programs, you may access the Gov Benefits and Benefits Check Up websites.

When Eligibility StartsCoverage may start retroactive to

any or all of the 3 months prior to application, if the individual would have been eligible during the retroac-tive period. Coverage generally stops

at the end of the month in which a person’s circumstances change. Most States have additional “State-only” programs to provide medical assis-tance for specified poor persons who do not qualify for the Medicaid pro-gram. No Federal funds are provided for State-only programs.

What is Not CoveredMedicaid does not provide medical

assistance for all poor persons. Even under the broadest provisions of the Federal statute (except for emergency services for certain persons), the Med-icaid program does not provide health care services, even for very poor persons, unless they are in one of the designated eligibility groups. Low income is only one test for Medicaid eligibility; assets and resources are also tested against established thresh-olds. As noted earlier, categorically needy persons who are eligible for Medicaid may or may not also re-ceive cash assistance from the TANF program or from the SSI program. Medically needy persons who would be categorically eligible except for income or assets may become eligible for Medicaid solely because of exces-sive medical expenses.

Many groups of people are cov-ered by Medicaid. Even within these groups, though, certain requirements must be met. These may include your age, whether you are pregnant, disabled, blind, or aged; your income and resources (like bank accounts, real property, or other items that can be sold for cash); and whether you are a U.S. citizen or a lawfully admitted immigrant. The rules for counting your income and resources vary from state to state and from group to group. There are special rules for those who live in nursing homes and for disabled children living at home.

Your child may be eligible for cov-erage if he or she is a U.S. citizen or a lawfully admitted immigrant, even if you are not (however, there is a 5-year limit that applies to lawful permanent residents). Eligibility for children is based on the child’s status, not the parent’s. Also, if someone else’s child lives with you, the child may be eli-gible even if you are not because your income and resources will not count for the child.

In general, you should apply for Medicaid if you have limited income and resources. You must match one of the descriptions below. (Even if you are not sure whether you qualify, if you or someone in your family needs health care, you should apply for Medicaid and have a qualified caseworker in your state evaluate your situation.)

Pregnant WomenApply for Medicaid if you think

you are pregnant. You may be eligible

if you are married or single. If you are on Medicaid when your child is born, both you and your child will be covered.

Children and TeenagersApply for Medicaid if you are the

parent or guardian of a child who is 18 years old or younger and your family’s income is limited, or if your child is sick enough to need nursing

home care, but could stay home with good quality care at home. If you are a teenager living on your own, the state may allow you to apply for Medicaid on your own behalf or any adult may apply for you. Many states also cover children up to age 21.

Person who is Aged, Blind, and/or Disabled

Apply if you are aged (65 years

How to Get Help?In Texas, Call 2-1-1 Calling 2-1-1 is a free, easy way to find out about services you can get. You can find services in your area or through state programs.When you call 2-1-1, you pick a language and then pick from 3 options:Press 1 to learn about services in your area such as:Food , housing, Child care ,After-school programs,Senior services, Help after a disaster and aTax help Press 2 to learn about state benefits such as:SNAP food benefits (used to be called food stamps), Medicaid , Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and Cash help for families (TANFStaff can talk with you Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pmPress 3 to report waste, fraud and abuse in state health and human services programs:Staff can talk with you Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pmYou might not be able to connect to 2-1-1 if:• You are calling from outside of Texas. • Your cell phone won’t dial 2-1-1. • You use voice-over-IP (use the Internet to make calls).

old or older), blind, or disabled and have limited income and resources. Apply if you are terminally ill and want to get hospice services. Apply if you are aged, blind, or disabled; live in a nursing home; and have limited income and resources. Apply if you are aged, blind, or disabled and need nursing home care, but can stay at home with special community care services. Apply if you are eligible for Medicare and have limited income and resources.

Other SituationsApply if you are leaving welfare

and need health coverage. Apply if you are a family with children under age 18 and have limited income and resources. (You do not need to be receiving a welfare check.) Apply if you have very high medical bills, which you cannot pay (and you are pregnant, under age 18 or over age 65, blind, or disabled).

Call To Learn How Medicare Advantage Plan Can Help You With Additional Benefits Such as Over The Counter Medi-With Additional Benefits Such as Over The Counter Medi-With Additional Benefits Such as Over The Counter Medi

cines, Transportation, Emergency Coverage When You Travel Abroad and more, at NO Cost, if You Are Enrolled in Medi-Abroad and more, at NO Cost, if You Are Enrolled in Medi-Abroad and more, at NO Cost, if You Are Enrolled in Medi

care and Medicaid both.


25

MassMutual Financial Group refers to Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), its affiliated companies and sales representatives. Insurance products issued by MassMutual, Springfield, MA 01111, and its subsidiaries, C.M. Life Insurance and MML Bay State Life Insurance companies, Enfield, CT 06082. 1Ranked #5 on the list of America’s Most Admired Companies by FORTUNE magazine, 05/03/10; industry category: (Insurance: Life and Health). CRN201303-146567

Finding satisfaction in your work is a sign of a good decision. MassMutual’s financial stability, comprehensive support and exemplary service for over 160 years can help you build a flourishing career helping people meet their financial goals. Be part of one of the most admired1 companies in America by working with one of our General Agencies. Make sure your next decision is a good one. MassMutual. We’ll help you get there.®

Talk to your local MassMutual Representative today.

It’s a career that fulfills lives – including your own.

What is the sign of a good decision? ®

George Eapen Sales Manager Strategic Financial Group, LLP 3 Greenway Plaza Suite 1700 Houston, TX 77046 Phone: 713-403-6517 Fax: 713-961-0153 [email protected] www.massmutual.com/AsianIndian

Life insurance + retirement/401(k) PLan services + DisabiLity income insurance + Long term care insurance + annuities

25November 04, 2011SENIOR HEALTH HOROSCOPEwww.GaneshaSpeaks.com

ARIES Mar 21 - Apr 20: This week will be relaxing, you feel happy and content. At

work, you are appreciated and rewarded for your fine per-rewarded for your fine per-rewarded for your fine performance. It is likely to raise your social status. You wish to celebrate your happiness with your beloved. You would like

to indulge in romantic conversations followed by a candle-lit dinner. You may even consider a luxurious indulgence like a visit to a salon/spa and take your beloved along with you! Doing your favorite things or helping children with their chores is likely to refresh your mind.

TAURUS Apr 21 - May 21 At work, you wants to introduce some changes and wish to

channelize your energy in the right direction. Your innova-tive ideas will help to do this. In the process, you may face some distractions or objec-tions. You will go forward with

your plans. After a week full of pressure and hectic work, you may want to pay a visit to a spa or a salon to recharge. Romantic conversations and perhaps a picnic are likely to make your weekend exciting. There is a lot of fun and frolic for you Bulls this week!

GEMINI May 22 - Jun 21: You are in for some good news this week as your finances are

likely to soar. Your dedication and sincere efforts catch your superiors’ attention. Thus, perks, incentives and promo-tions are on the cards. Your confidence level is too high to

get affected by any obstacles. You feel ecstatic and your inner happiness reflects in your atti-tude. It may attract love, business, money and creativity. You take time to bonding with family and friends. Some occasions may require you to loosen your purse strings.

CANCER Jun 22 - Jul 23: Neither your personal nor professional fronts are too dif-personal nor professional fronts are too dif-personal nor professional fronts are too dif

ficult to tackle this week. You may indulge in some family bonding activities to keep the environment peaceful. You feel the need to help the poor and the underprivileged. You

wish to lend emotional and financial support to them. You may also want to donate money to charity organizations. However, think twice before donating money because expenses are likely to mount. Be practical and face the situ-ation bravely and have faith

LEO July 24 - Aug 23: You have faced hardships in life, withstood tough times and

emerged a winner. Now you know what ‘survival of the fit-test’ means. This week you will be busy making strategies in order to survive the cut-throat competition of the modern world. Meetings, collabora-

tions, partnerships, short-term and long-term goals are on your agenda. You may realize that spending time on your business is necessary to get in touch with the big players of the industry. You have imbibed all the qualities of a success-ful businessman/professional.

VIRGO Aug 24 - Sep 23: You may seek guidance of the Almighty and go on a pilgrim-

age to a shrine, because on the personal front, you may be going through a rough patch and loneliness may engulf you. Visits to temples and similar spiritual sojourns will pacify

you and help divert your attention. On the professional front, however, things are pretty much on the right track. The personal crisis will make you wiser and motivate you to prove your calibre on the professional front. A change of job is in the offing. It’s time for you to get a hold on your emotions, be practical and focus only on the positive aspects of life.

LIBRA Sep 24 - Oct 23: As the week be-

gins, your energy levels will be on an all-time high. Opti-mistic and enthusiastic, you are all pumped up about the new developments happening around you. This is likely to

motivate you to explore new avenues, grab the opportunities that come your way and achieve everything professionally and personally. Your positive outlook is likely to be your strength to fight against all odds. If you put in hard-work, success is bound to follow you. Confident, you would want to conquer the world, and your time starts, now!

SCORPIO Oct 24 - Nov 22: You are likely to be in the pink of health this week. Your joy and

happiness are likely to double. Everything seems to be in perfect order, be it about per-perfect order, be it about per-perfect order, be it about personal, professional, financial or social matters. You may think of innovative ideas to make money, and fortunately,

they may work wonders for you. Your cards do indicate financial benefits. If you are a parent, your children are likely to make you proud by their achievements and progress. Nothing seem to dampen you spirits at the moment.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 23 - Dec 22: This week you are into social causes. You take

up philanthropic activities, to help the less fortunate and the underprivileged. Besides counselling them and lending emotional support. As your focus remains on the charity

work, you are likely to miss out on socializing and catching up with friends. So during the weekend, you may spare some time to renew old ties or relationships and strengthen old and new bonds. You are likely to reap personal as well as professional benefits during this phase.

CAPRICORN Dec 23 - Jan 20: You may be caught in a whirlpool of thoughts. Exploring new

avenues and business expan-sion are on your mind. More focus will be on monetary matters, funds, investments and capital-raising. Think twice before you spend. You may even consider buying

and selling of assets, property or shares. Besides business, family activities too will demand your attention, and you will strive to maintain a good rapport with family members.

AQUARIUS Jan 21 - Feb 19:You are likely to be surrounded by people and be a part of many

events. Like a social butterfly you are likely to be seen pay-ing flying visits to various social events. The spotlight will be on you, as you take the centre-stage at most of the events. As a result, you will

enjoy this exciting phase to the hilt. A believer in joy of giving, you are likely to spread love and pearls of wisdom all around. In this process, you may receive love and affection from the people, and feel blessed and humbled.

PISCES Feb 20 - Mar 20: Rewards and recognition are in store for you this week. Your

dedication and excellent per-dedication and excellent per-dedication and excellent performance are likely to impress your superiors at work. Don’t get surprised if you are pro-moted or become entitled to incentives. You really deserve all the praise and perks! You

see a gradual rise in your bank balance and thus, financial security is no more a reason for worry, at least for some time. You are in a jubilant mood, and keep the home environment lively by spending quality time with family members. Besides making new friends, you may bump into someone special. Positive vibrations and peaceful times will leave you asking for more.


26 November 04, 201126


3 353353November 4, 2011 353353

North America�s Largest & Only 24�7 South Asian Radio Network

@( (Advertisers, please call 1.877.337.4321 Ext 360 �toll free� or email advertise� worldbandmedia.com �Advertise

New York

New Jersey 100.7 FM - Edison

NY Long Island 89.5 FM- Massapequa, Wantagh,

West Babylon, Lindenhurst, Farmingdale, Seaford,

Levittown, Plainedge, Bethpage, Hicksville

NY Tri State FM98.7 HD2- NY TriState Illinois

Chicago North West 89.1FM- Schaumburg, Palatine, Des Plaines,

Arlington heights, Mt. Prospect, Bloomingdale, Park Ridge, Bensenville

Chicago South 89.3FM - University Park, N.W. Tinley Park, East

Hazel Crest, Homewood, Midlothian, Oak forest, Blue Island, Harvey

Chicago FM101.1HD2 across Chicagoland

Detroit 1090 AM

Texas

Houston 91.3 FM- Kemah, Bacliff, San Leon,

Dickinson, League City, Webster, Seabrook, Shore

Acres, La Porte

Houston 91.3FM- Katy, Pecan Grove, Sugarland,

Telfair, Aliana, Missouri City, Hill Croft, Rosenberg,

Greatwood

Houston 90.7 FM - Hardin, Daisetta, Liberty,

Dayton, Kenefick

California

Los Angeles, CA FM 105.9HD2 Bay Area, CA FM101.3HD2

NY Long Island, Chicago N.W., Chicago South and Houston launching soon...

!

www.humdesiradio.comwww.facebook.com�humdesiradio

Kemah 91.3 FMBacliff, San Leon, Dickinson, Hillcrest, Santa Fe,

League City, Webster, Seabrook, Shoreacres, La Porte , Bay Town.

Katy 91.3 FM Pecan Grove, Sugarland, Telfair, Aliana, Missouri City, Hill Croft,

Rosenberg, Greatwood

Hardin 90.7 FMDaisetta, Liberty, Dayton, Kenefick

Houston, get ready for non-stop Desi Entertainment

on 3 New FM Frequencies COMING SOON

Catch the Latest News, Gossip,

Songs, Masti, Contests & Prizes and much more�

!

!SPONSORSHIPS OPEN for the CHRISTMAS BONANZA.

Book now and get heard across U.S.A�

Indo AmerIcAn news • FrIdAy, Ay, A noVemBer 4 2011 • Online editiOn: www.indOn: www.indO Oamerican-news.cOm

36 November 4, 201136

Documents

Nov 4 Pages 1-26