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Vol.11 No. 37 January 19-25, 2019 80 Cents New York Edition Follow us on TheSouthAsianTimes.info
to President Trump Members of Parliament voted the vote that the defeat, larger
Dems no‑deal with Trump, organization's head, but because the vacancy
SKN marks International shutdown in 4th week wasn't expected until after the 2020 election
Continued from page 1 the Trump administration did not have a short‑
aide. But the lawmakers ultimately decided not list of successors ready to go.
Day of Disabilities to attend. The meeting boycott leaves unclear It is likely that the Trump administration will
how and when both sides might negotiate a select someone with a financial or business
resolution to the partial shutdown, which was background for the job, people familiar with the
triggered when Trump demanded nearly $6 bil‑ decision‑making said, though aides are not con‑
lion for a border wall and Democrats refused ‑‑ straining the President's options at this point.
and is now the longest in U.S. history. Then‑President Barack Obama broke tradition
House Democrats have tried to pressure the by selecting Kim, a trained physician and uni‑
Senate to take up bills funding parts of the gov‑ versity president.
ernment, to no avail. Nooyi, who stepped down from Pepsi last
The partial government shutdown would sub‑ year, is considered by administration officials
tract an estimated 0.1 percentage point from an early favorite if she is interested.
growth every week, according to a Trump During a dinner at his Bedminster club last
administration official. The administration had summer, Trump heaped praise on Nooyi, who
initially counted just the impact from the was seated at his table. At the time she'd recent‑
800,000 federal workers not receiving their ly announced her departure from the beverage
(from left): Ramesh Patel, Srujal Parikh, Manish Parikh, DCG Shatrughan paychecks. But they now believe the impact giant. Ivanka Trump has called Nooyi a "mentor
Sinha, and Dr. Naveen Mehrotra, founder of SKN Foundation. doubles, due to greater losses from private con‑ and inspiration" on Twitter. The President's
tractors also out of work and other government daughter and adviser has been the White
New York: The Shri Krishna Nidhi (SKN) of SKN Foundation. “Additionally, we plan
spending and functions that won't occur. IRS House's main conduit to the World Bank as it
Foundation, a non‑profit dedicated to the on developing an advocacy platform to
employees who have been furloughed due to launched a women's entrepreneurship initiative,
well‑being of the South Asian community, help generate policy through legislators
the shutdown will be asked to return to work and along with Treasury Secretary Steven
particularly in New Jersey, celebrated the specific to disabilities while also raising
as the Jan. 28 start of tax season approaches. Mnuchin and acting chief of staff Mick
International Day of Disabilities at the awareness in an effort to promote more
And while the Treasury Department does not Mulvaney, she will help guide the administra‑
Indian Consulate last month in partner‑ empathy amongst the community. Early
have a budget in place, refunds are paid out of tion's selection process for the next president.
ship with FIA and the Consulate, where intervention is key to a positive outcome.”
children of special needs and their fami‑ Shatrughna Sinha, Deputy Consul a “permanent, indefinite appropriation” that is
not affected by the shutdown. New Indian envoy presents
lies were invited to discuss various General, spoke about Government of
Similarly, major programs like food stamps credentials to Trump
aspects of the disability experience. India's initiatives on "Accessible India."
and Section 8 are funded through March, but Continued from page 1
“There is no doubt that more and more Srujal Parikh, President of FIA, said that
federal courts, for example, are expected to run Ambassador Shringla to Washington and
South Asian families are raising children the FIA will walk hand in hand with the
out of money soon. wished him every success in his high responsi‑
with disabilities and our goal is to provide SKN Foundation in this ef fort to raise
bilities as India's Ambassador to the US. The
support and education for both the fami‑ awareness in the community and help to
lies and their caregivers and the commu‑ be inclusive of our special needs mem‑ Nooyi tops WH shortlist President fondly recalled his friendship with the
nity,” said Dr Naveen Mehrotra, founder bers of our society. for World Bank President Indian Prime Minister and his recent telephone
Continued from page 1 conversation with Narendra Modi. He highlight‑
named, she would be the first woman to head ed the broad range of strategic interests and
Iranʼs US‑criticized satellite the group since its founding after World War II.
In addition to Nooyi, a senior administration
fundamental democratic values shared between
the two countries, according to a press release
launch failed to reach orbit official has confirmed Treasury official David
Malpass and Overseas Private Investment Corp
by the Indian Embassy.
Ambassador Shringla in his remarks con‑
Tehran, Iran: An Iranian satellite‑carrying amid the Trump administrationʼs maxi‑ CEO Ray Washburne are under consideration veyed warm greetings from the President and
rocket blasted off into space on Tuesday, malist approach against Tehran after for the job. the Prime Minister of India to President Trump
but scientists failed to put the device into withdrawing from the nuclear deal, The three names are not a comprehensive and the First Lady. He added that India was
orbit in a launch previously criticized by resports New York Post. Iran, which has shortlist, however, and additional people will greatly encouraged by the President's strong
the United States as helping the Islamic long said it does not see k nuclear likely be considered, the official says. Like personal commitment to take the India‑US
Republic further develop its ballistic mis‑ weapons, maintains that its satellite many bank employees and those in the global strategic partnership forward. The ambassador
sile program. Secretary of State Mike launches and rocket tests do not have a development community, the White House was assured President Trump of his commitment to
Pompeo has alleged that Iranʼs space pro‑ military component. Tehran also says surprised by the abrupt resignation last week of expand key pillars of the bilateral relationship
gram could help it develop a missile they donʼt violate a United Nations reso‑ the incumbent World Bank president Jim Yong including economic relations and trade ties,
capable of carrying a nuclear weapon to lution that only “called upon” it not to Kim, three years ahead of his term expiring. The defense and security, energy, science and tech‑
the mainland US ̶ criticism that comes conduct such tests. American president traditionally chooses the nology and global issues, among others.
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TheSouthAsianTimes.info TRISTATE January 19-25, 2019 5
Consul General Sandeep Chakravorty with honorees and guests President Lalit Aery (middle) with his team and Nassau County legislator Rose Walker.
at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrations on January 12.
Mineola, NY: Ina first, the oath ceremony IALI. The welcome speech was made by
New York: Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Secretary of Jaipur Foot. for India Association of Long Island (IALI) Zahid Syed, Commissioner of Human Rights
was celebrated at the Indian Consulate The Consul General of India in New York, executive officers and other officials for Nassau County. In his speech, incoming
General in New York on January 12 where Sandeep Chakravorty, speaking at the 2019 was he ld at the Nassau County President Lalit Aery highlighted some of the
14 people were recognized for their contri‑ Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrations, at the Legislative Building here on January 11. plans his team will be working on to serve
butions to the community. Consulate, on January 12, 2019. Among the over 200 guests present to the community and helping in the progress
Awardees included Ramesh Pate l, The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas has been w itness the ceremony were Jack of IALI.
Chairman of FIA (NY/NJ/CT ); Smriti strengthening ties between NRIs and India Schnirman, Nassau County Comptroller, In his team are Shashi Malik ‑ Vice
Khanna, the former President of the since 2003, to allow them to reconnect to Richard Nicolello, Presiding Officer of the President; HarGovind Gupta – Secretary; and
Association of Indians in America (AIA‑NY); their roots while celebrating their achieve‑ County Legislature, and Past Presidents of Rajeev Chaudhary – Treasurer.
Rajendra Bafna, Vice Chairman and ments and contributions.
E
ven by the standards of the malignan‑ ly quietly without the public finding out the
cies that surround President Donald specifics. It is that aspect of such an investi‑
Trump personally, the one reported gation that opens the FBI to Trump's oft‑
by The New York Times on January 11 was repeated charge of a "deep state" working
stunning in its implication. against him. Of course, it is a politically expe‑
T he Times reported that the FBI had dient refrain that Trump knows helps him
opened a counterintelligence investigation to with his political base that has so far bought
ascertain if the President was a Russian everything he has sold them.
agent in the aftermath of him firing the It is hard to say what, if anything, the inves‑
agency's director, James Comey, on May 9, tigation found that might indict or exonerate
2017. Given the frenzy of daily newsbreaks the President. It may never be found in
about this president, anyone of which would explicit terms or, for that matter, any terms.
have long unseated any other incumbent, It may or may not buttress the Mueller
damning news stories just slide by. inquiry. It is that uncertainty that makes it
However, this particular one has been so vulnerable to Trump's political grandstand‑
extraordinary that it may yet foreshadow ing as he prepares for the 2020 rerun.
what a likely report by special counsel By his voluble standards, the President has
Robert Mueller, who is examining the very so far been quiet on social media about the
aspects of Trump and/or his campaign's President Trump refused to criticize his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin for Times report. However, it is unlikely that pri‑
alleged dalliances with Russia's President meddling in US election during a meeting in Helsinki last year. (Photo courtesy AP) vately his team of lawyers has not been star‑
Vladimir Putin, could eventually reveal. tled by it. Trump phoned in to Fox News. Host
Think of it as India's Central Bureau of "deep state" striking back and trying to Jeanine Pirro asked him directly, "Are you
Investigation (CBI) opening an investigation
into whether the country's Prime Minister is
COMMENT upend the popular electoral will in electing
Trump. However, the FBI's counterintelli‑
now or have you ever worked for Russia?"
"It's the most insulting thing I've ever been
working on behalf of Pakistan. described the Times report as the "most gence is not known to embark on any action asked," Trump said but did not categorically
A lot of people may not even be able to insulting" thing anyone has said about him lightly at all and without very serious intima‑ deny it.
process the devastating import of a US but has not explicitly denied it. Any denial, of tions of a national security threat. It is a measure of how benumbed the
President suspected of being a Russian agent course, would be superfluous in the sense As the Times story pointed out: "No evi‑ national mood has become because of the
but that is precisely what the FBI wanted to that even if he were "wittingly, unwittingly or dence has emerged publicly that Mr. Trump relentless parade of seriously upending news
find out. Counterintelligence officials within half‑wittingly", as the famous journalist Carl was secretly in contact with or took direction stories since he became President that even a
the FBI are particularly serious‑minded and Bernstein described it, acting as Russia's from Russian government officials." However, question like that is unlikely to do any real
they embark on any investigation with great "pawn" he was unlikely to admit to it. "emerged publicly" is the operative part of political damage to him right now. It is only
deliberation. To think that they would be so The point here though is much larger. The that sentence. It could well turn out that the when Mueller issues his report and its entire
alarmed as to suspect no less a person than very initiation of such an investigation under‑ FBI overreached in its concern about the content is made public will America and the
the incumbent US President is unprecedent‑ scores the depths to which America's nation‑ President but that is still not conclusive since world know whether the stories are malig‑
ed. al concerns have fallen since the emergence Mueller is yet to issue a report of his find‑ nant or benign.
Within the investigation was the apprehen‑ of Trump on the political stage. It is conceiv‑ ings.
sion that Trump is a possible threat to able that some of Trump supporters may cite Counterintelligence investigations are by Mayank Chhaya is a Chicago‑based senior
nat ional security. Trump himse lf has the investigation as the ultimate proof of a their very nature often open‑ended and not journalist.
'Trump rejects
proposal to
Attorney General nominee
temporarily reopen would not meddle with Mueller
the government Washington: Attorney General nomi‑
nee William Barr said that, if con‑
Washington: President Trump said on Monday that
firmed, he would let special counsel
he has rejected a proposal by Senator Lindsey
Robert Mueller finish his investigation
Graham to temporarily reopen the government in an
into Russian meddling in the 2016
effort to jump‑start talks with Democratic lawmakers
presidential election and believes the
on funding a border wall.
results should be made public.
“I did reject it,” Mr. Trump said of the proposal,
"On my watch, Bob will be allowed to
speaking to reporters en route to delivering a speech
complete his work," Barr intends to say
to a farm convention in New Orleans.
to Congress at the start of his Senate
In an appearance on Fox News Sunday, Mr.
hearing Tuesday, according to pre‑
Graham, a close ally of the president, pitched Mr.
pared testimony released on Monday.
Trump on a plan for the president to agree to a vote
"I believe it is in the best interest of
by Congress to reopen the government for about
everyone ‑‑ the President, Congress, William Barr.
three weeks “before he pulls the plug on the legisla‑
and, most importantly, the American (Photo courtesy
tive option.” If there was no progress made during
people ‑‑ that this matter be resolved Bloomberg)
that time, Mr. Graham said, the president could then
by allowing the special counsel to com‑
declare a national emergency as a way to obtain
plete his work," he will say. "The coun‑ consistent with the law," he will say. Barr, who previously led the Justice
funding for a border wall without congressional
try needs a credible resolution of these Barr will also pledge to continue Department during the first Bush
action.
issues. If confirmed, I will not permit enforcing the four priorities at the administration, has come under fire for
But Mr. Trump said that he did not want to extend
partisan politics, personal interests, or Justice Department, including fighting his past commentary on the Mueller
the impasse over funding for the wall. It was not
any other improper consideration to violent crime, prosecuting hate crimes, probe and Trump's firing of James
clear, however, what Mr. Trump saw as an alterna‑
interfere with this or any other investi‑ enforcing and improving immigration Comey as FBI director. Last year, he
tive. “Iʼm not looking to call a national emergency,”
gation." laws, and protecting the right to vote authored a memo to senior Justice
he said on Monday.
Congress and the public should be and the integrity of elections, accord‑ Department officials arguing that
Mr. Trump, advisers said, has refused to allow his
"be informed of the results of the spe‑ ing to the prepared testimony. Trump's interact ions w ith Comey
acting chief of staff, Mick Mulvaney, or anyone else
cial counsel's work," he will say. Barr is scheduled to testify Tuesday would not constitute obstruction of jus‑
negotiating on his behalf to compromise on his
"For that reason, my goal will be to morning before the Senate Judiciary tice and called Mueller's obstruction
demand for $5.7 billion in border wall funding.
provide as much transparency as I can Committee. probe "fatally misconceived."
TheSouthAsianTimes.info US AFFAIRS January 19-25, 2019 11
SP‑BSP misdeeds
the coming Lok Sabha polls
together in Uttar Pradesh sharing
38 seats each of the 80 in the
state, while leaving Rae Bareli and Agra: Prime Minister Narendra Everything is forgotten... the guest
Amethi for Congress, which has Modi said the SP, BSP leaders were house incident of Lucknow (an
been kept out of the alliance. worried about their misdeeds and apparent reference to the attack
"The Bahujan Samaj Party and were now working to defeat the on Mayawati during the regime of
Samajwadi Party will each contest 'chowkidar' (watchman) who was Mulayam Singh Yadav in 1995),
38 seats while two seats have all out to expose their "misdeeds". the Muzaffarnagar riots and much
been left for one or two parties. Addressing a public meeting more are now forgotten and they
We have also decided to leave here, he said the opposition lead‑ are striking alliances.
Amethi and Rae Bareli seats for ers were trying to close ranks to "The agenda is: Save your skin
Congress though we do not have stop investigative agencies from and work to defeat Modi, because
alliance with it," Mayawati said at acting against them but asserted the 'watchman is alert now'."
Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav (2nd L)
a joint conference here with SP and BSP supremo Mayawati. that the government would not Calling himself a 'chowkidar'
chief Akhilesh Yadav. stop until each paise of looted pub‑ who is ever vigilant, Modi said that
Answering questions, Mayawati said. On his part, Akhilesh Yadav again. lic money was unearthed and political leaders involved in scan‑
called the alliance a "permanent hinted at supporting Mayawati as Making it clear that the deep accounted for. dals and corruption should be
phenomenon" that would not only a Prime Ministerial candidate. differences and simmering hostili‑ "People who hated each other... ready to pay for their misdeeds.
sound the "end of the dictatorial, "Uttar Pradesh has produced ty between the BSP‑SP were "now
arrogant and anti‑people the BJP" numerous prime ministers in the things of the past", Mayawati said trodden and farmers, Mayawati e lectoral history showed that
but one that would last beyond past. You know whom I will sup‑ that in "larger public interest she said that the alliance was set to while the vote of the BSP and SP
the 2019 general election and port. I will be happy if another had even decided to overlook the knock out the BJP as they suc‑ shifted to the Congress in toto, it
also go in the 2022 state prime minister comes from the infamous June 1995 murderous cessfully did in the 1993 state did never happen vice versa.
Assembly polls. state." attack on her by SP workers". Assembly polls. "Both the BSP (1997) and
The two parties will keep their Mayawati described the alliance Listing a host of problems like Explaining the reason for keep‑ SP (2017) t ied up w ith the
personal differences aside to end also as a "new political revolution" demonetization, rolling out of the ing the Cong ress out of the Congress, but the results were not
"the monstrous rule" of the taken in national interest to stop GST, agrarian distress, marginal‑ alliance, Mayawati said it was in our favor because of this very
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), she the BJP from coming to power ization of the poor, Dalits, down‑ because of past experiences and reason."
J
ust as Narendra Mo di woo the middle and upper castes, Transport and Highways Nitin
mocked the Congress on the the BJP may open the gates for the Gadkari recently told the Marathis
rural employment scheme by quota warriors to create mayhem demanding reservations.
saying that it was a living example with various demands. Already, an The BJP will have to contend,
‑‑ "jeeta jagta smarak" ‑‑ of the OBC leader has called for doubling therefore, not only with the legal
party's failures, the parliamentary the quota for his community from hurdle relating to the quantum of
approval of a 10 per cent quota for 27 per cent to 54 to bring it closer quotas, but also the charge of mak‑
the economically weaker sections to his estimate of the actual num‑ ing promises in a vacuum, as it
under the government's aegis ber of OBCs in the country. were, since the expectations of the
underlined its inadequacies on the For a third, the BJP's pro‑upper unemployed are unlikely to be ful‑
economic front. caste tilt can alienate the Dalits, filled.
Had the economy been booming Adivasis and the OBCs to the elec‑ But these are not the only criti‑
and there were jobs aplenty, there toral advantage of the party's cisms which it will face. No less
would have been no need for pro‑ opponents, especially in the Hindi strident, especially among the mid‑
viding the crutches of reservations Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Rajnath heartland. dle and upper classes, will be the
for another group in addition to Singh in Parliament. (Photo: LSTV/IANS) At the same time, the few "for‑ charge that the BJP is turning its
the existing provisions for the Rajasthan, Mad hya Pradesh, counter the judicial relook at the wards" in these parties of the back‑ back on the economic reforms
scheduled castes (Dalits), sched‑ Chhatt isg arh, Te lang ana and law on atrocities af fecting the ward castes can move towards the unlike the period immediately
uled tribes (Adivasis) and the Mizoram. Dalits and Adivasis, which annoyed BJP, compounding the confusion before the last general election
Other Backward Castes (OBCs). The BJP's earlier failure to cross the middle and upper created by the reappearance of the and for a few years afterwards
It was the perceived discontent the halfway mark in Karnataka classes/castes. caste‑based "Mandal politics" of when it was seen to be in the fore‑
over the absence of employment must have also been seen by the The latest set of quotas, there‑ the 1990s. front of the private sector‑led reju‑
opportunities which made the gov‑ party along with the latest set‑ fore, are aimed both to assure the But how will this divisive brand venation of the economy.
ernment identify an additional 10 backs as a warning sign in the new beneficiaries about jobs and of caste mobilization play out in Since the Congress, too, had
per cent of the population for affir‑ months before the next general education and to reaf firm the the new era of economic aspira‑ called for reservations in the pri‑
mative action. election. party's long‑established brahmin‑ tions? In the 1990s, the promise of vate sector in 2003 and has not
It may have felt that the initiative Moreover, the defeats in the bania bias. assured jobs was deemed enough formally dissociated itself from the
was all the more necessary heartland states were attributed to The twin objectives are unlikely for the caste‑based outfits to reap party's 1955 pledge to usher in a
because the popular angst over a the disquiet among the middle and to have an easy run. For one, by electoral benefits, sidelining the "socialistic pattern of society", it
moribund economy had found upper classes over not only the exceeding the judicial stipulation Congress and compelling the BJP can be assumed that the Indian
expression in the Bharatiya Janata BJP's economic policies, but its about a 50 per cent limit on reser‑ to turn to the temple issue to keep political class will not hesitate to
Party's (BJP) recent e lectoral social stance as well in the context vations by introducing the new its Hindu flock together. move backwards towards a
defeats in as many as five states ‑‑ of its hesitancy to ef fective ly quotas, the government courts the But, now, the provision of quotas licence‑permit‑control raj.
The views expressed in Op Eds are not necessarily those of The South Asian Times.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info FEATURE January 19-25, 2019 15
Not only is Air Force One secure and a command center, it can refuel while flying and keep the President in the air for a long, long time.
A
ir Force One is a massive flying container of secrets. date people such as all of the senior advisors, Secret Service The Air Force One costs $206,000 an hour to operate.
Thereʼs still so much we donʼt know, but lucky for us, officers, special guests and reporters (who live in a cabin at Thatʼs staggering compared to the $20,000 an hour it costs
a few US presidents have leaked facts about Air Force the very back of the plane). The central seating area of the for a commercial airline. President Trumpʼs traveling costs
One that are pretty unbelievable. plane is reserved for the president and his family. were $10 million his first month in office. Presidential travel
Air Force One is so much more than a private jet for the involves hundreds of people and dozens of aircraft. The
POTUS. Itʼs a top secret vault in the sky, and that vault has
FLYING FORTRESS costs add up.
just been cracked. Here are some things that nobody knew & COMMAND CENTER
about Air Force One, until recently…
IT IS ACTUALLY
As a flying fortress, Air Force One protects and secures the
AIR FORCE THREE
HOW FAST AND HOW HIGH? POTUS and any fellow passengers. Each and every window
on the aircraft is armored and resistant to gunfire. There are There are two Air Force Ones, but only one is the real deal.
Air Force One can fly over 700 miles per hour. Thatʼs real‑ flares that can be released from the craft, if needed, that will They fly together so no one knows which one the president
ly fast! It can also fly higher than most commercial planes, aid in confusing any enemy missiles. is actually on.
at a height of 45,000 feet. Despite its crazy speed, Air Force The gear aboard Air Force One is top‑notch with superb “The Gulfstream,” known as the C‑20C, is a jet that suppos‑
One flies very smoothly. satellite communications networks and extremely classified edly trails the other two planes, but the government and the
defensive measures that not only protect the plane during an Air Force deny it exists. Interesting…
AIR FORCE ONE CAN FLY FOREVER attack, but can carry out attacks as well.
IN WITH THE NEW
Air Force One can refuel in the sky. It never has to touch
ground. If it wanted to, it could fly forever. It can keep the
AIR FORCE ONE
With the increasing problems with finding adequate parts
president in the sky as long as it has to. Another cool fact: IS NUCLEAR RESISTANT to serve and maintain Air Force One properly, it was decided
Air Force One has a 3,000 gallon fuel tank. a new set of planes were needed.
Air Force One is pretty much a nuclear‑resistant Oval
With that in mind, during Barack Obamaʼs term of office,
HOW MANY PEOPLE Office. The plane can withstand a nuclear blast even if on
an order was placed for two replacements for the Air Force
the ground. It has been put through testing to the equivalent
DOES IT HOLD? of a nuclear attack. Thatʼs comforting for sure. Letʼs hope One fleet. The new versions were to be built based on the
itʼs never tried in real time. new Boeing 747‑8 series.
Like a large house, it has three stories of 4,000 square feet.
It has been estimated that both planes are looking to run at
The president has his own large office, lavatory, and confer‑
ence room Air Force One can hold hundreds of people, but
HOW MUCH DOES least $3 billion, and are not expected to even come into serv‑
Source: Hindustan Times
only safely seat 70. There are living quarters to accommo‑ IT COST TO FLY? ice until well into 2024.
16 January 19-25, 2019 BOLLYWOOD TheSouthAsianTimes.info
I
Indian‑origin filmmaker, feels the f you enjoy political satires, And it can't get any worse than
wave of tribalism is taking over the "The Accidental Prime Suzanne Bernert as Sonia
world with people getting scared about losing Minister" may not be the Gandhi. Suzanne arches her
their distinct identity. But the filmmaker says film that its makers would rec‑ eyebrows so sharply, I
it is time to join the "larger group" and ommend for you. Outwardly, feared for her facial well‑
embrace the power of diversity. the intent and purpose of this being.
The filmmaker is looking forward to the fiercely political parable is to If you want to play spot‑
release of his film "Glass" ‑‑ a superhero give us the "real" picture of for‑ the‑politician, this film is huge
movie with a psychological twist. mer Prime Minister fun. My top prize for the
Asked to point out one superpower the Manmohan Singh's par‑ most enjoyable mimicry
world needs right now, Shyamalan told IANS ent party and how it goes to the talented
in an exclusive interview over the phone: manipulated him into Arjun Mathur and
"What we are seeing right now is a strong fronting their dynas‑ Aahana Kumra as
dose of tribalism where we are seeing nation‑ tic designs. Rahul and Sonia
alism from different countries... kind of rear And how much Gandhi.
its head." more real can it get The only actor not
"This is a moment of globalization and than Anupam Kher doing an impersonation
every country is worried that its distinct iden‑ as Mr Singh? The is Akshaye Khanna.
tity is going to go away and everybody is beard, the turban, Playing Sanjaya Baru,
fighting for the old ways at the moment. the soft hushed barely Akshaye brings to the
"But the courage to be part of a larger audible voice (make sure proceedings a gravitas
group, I don't know if it is a superpower, but you get your seats in a that this film doesn't
it is obviously something that we need right Dolby equipped the‑ need or deserve.
now," added the filmmaker. atre)... Anupam gets the Akshaye and Anupam
Talking about real life superheroes, he said: Indian American filmmaker M Night
externals so right that anchor the plot. Their
Shyamalanʼs next is a superhero movie.
"We (my wife and I) have a foundation. And we scarcely care exchanges exhibit
the format of the foundation is that we look or want to build a school, we support them.” about what lies sparks of unexpected
for grassroot leaders around the world. My He made his first film "Praying with Anger" beneath. irony and intelligence,
wife actually goes and finds them wherever when he was 21, but his life changed after his There is nothing as if two actors rec‑
they are in the world. breakout hit "The Sixth Sense" in 1999. He is Actor Anupam Kher plays former
accidental about ognize the potential
also credited for projects like "The Visit",
PM Manmohan Singh in the film.
"If they pass the vetting process, then we "The Accidental in each other know‑
ask them what they want and give them "Wayward Pines", "The Last Airbender", "The Prime Minister". The not‑so‑hidden ing fully well their collective wisdom is
whatever they need. If they need money for Happening", "After Earth", "Split" and agenda is to show Sonia Gandhi and her unsupported by anything else around
the school bus, they want to dig a water well "Unbreakable". two children in the worst light possible. them.
I B
t is strange how I never y accident, a maker of films... Good
thought of Naseeruddin or bad, yes or no, they know me as
Shah as a Muslim until now an iconoclast," Mrinal Sen said about
when his religious identity is himself in his autobiography, giving an apt
being used against him to and characteristically witty description of
prove he is anti‑national. his cinematic philosophy.
But hang on. Why is Naseer Anybody who had the privilege of inter‑
anti‑national? Because he acting with Sen closely, always vouched for
expressed trepidation about his sense of humor and down‑to‑earth
the future of this country and, approach, which made him a fantastic and
more specifically, his children. indefatigable conversationalist.
Here is what Naseer said: Sen (95), who died in Kolkata recently,
"The poison has already was the last surviving member of the 'trini‑
spread. It will be very difficult ty' from Bengal ‑ including master filmmak‑
to capture this djinn back in ers Satyajit Ray and Ritwik Ghatak ‑‑ who
the bottle. There is complete gave birth to the parallel (or new wave) cin‑
impunity for those who take ema in the country by starting and cradling
Actor Naseeruddin Shah had expressed Veteran filmmaker Mrinal Sen
law into their own hands. In his trepidation about the future of India. the domestic film society movement in one
many areas we are witnessing gave a new direction to the
of the coffee houses of Kolkata.
ing the Prime Minister is a bit of a joke? idea of filmmaking in India.
that the death of a cow has more signifi‑ The troika gave a new direction to the
cance than that of a police officer. I feel Am I going to be branded anti‑national for idea of filmmaking in India, with their intel‑ in Bangladesh), Sen made his first Bengali
anxious thinking about my children. defending Naseer's right to defend his fami‑ lect, spontaneity, knowledge of world cine‑ film 'Rat Bhore' (The Dawn) in 1953, but it
Because they don't have a religion..." ly? Is it right to book him a ticket to ma and deep understanding of the nuances was his second directorial effort 'Neel
I am a little lost after repeatedly reading Karachi because he spoke about his insecu‑ of the medium that made the world look up Akasher Niche' (Under the Blue Sky) that
this. Which part of the observation is anti‑ rities? But I am happy to inform you that in wonder and respect their creations. received acclaim in the country for its lyri‑
national? Have we all not felt the same ter‑ Naseer is not going anywhere. He is not Sen regaled in breaking age‑old stereo‑ cism and humane qualities.
ror grip our hearts in recent times as mobs wrong in feeling anxious about the future. types, highlighting issues such as exploita‑ Sen has left behind a rich repertoire of 27
decided to lynch alleged cattle‑offenders? And if he speaks up about his insecurities tion and erosion of values. feature films, 14 shorts and four documen‑
Or set on fire a rape victim who doesn't and is slammed for it, then isn't it proof His film 'Kharij' shook the urban middle taries during a career spanning six decades.
withdraw her case against her offenders? that he's right in feeling insecure? and upper classes so much that many Widely feted, Sen received the Padma
Don't we all worry about our children? The country is in the grip of an unprece‑ changed their treatment of servants, partic‑ Bhushan in 1981, the Dadasaheb Phalke ‑‑
Except maybe Anupam Kher, who thinks dented culture of conformity. Everybody ularly giving them better places to sleep. the highest award in Indian cinema ‑‑ in
everything is hunky‑dory in India today. must love certain politicians to qualify as a Born on May 14, 1923, at Faridpur (now 2005
But you never know what will be deemed true Indian. And if you have any reserva‑
"anti‑national" in today's super‑charged
atmosphere of pseudo‑patriotism, will you?
tions about any of the government's poli‑
cies (including reservations) you will be
booked an air ticket to Pakistan.
Vikrant Massey loves working
Is it anti‑national to say Vivek Oberoi play‑
A
ctor Vicky Kaushal, who is
playing the role of an
Indian commando in the
recently released 'Uri ‑ The
Surgical Strike', has said the entire
film team is going through a surre‑
al feeling that audience has accept‑
ed their war‑drama film with open
arms.
Vicky Kaushal was interacting
with media after success of 'Uri...'
along with his co‑stars Mohit Raina
and Yami Gautam in Mumbai.
A
The movie is based on the 2016
Indian Army's surgical strikes ctor Vikrant Massey's last few proj‑ from March. He feels a difference in
inside Pakistan as a retaliation for ects have been with women direc‑ women's perspective.
the Uri terrorist attack. tors, and one of the biggest movie "From my experience I can affirm that I
The film has managed to collect he has signed is with Meghna Gulzar. He don't really know how the women see the
Rs 8.20 crore at the box‑office says he loves working under female direc‑ world like, but it seems to be quite differ‑
after first day of its release, sources tors. ent than how men do," Vikrant said in a
said. In 2018, Vikrant did three movies with statement to IANS.
"Till the film is released, you woman directors ‑‑ Zoya Akhtar's "Dil "One thing is for sure that women are far
don't have an idea if it is going to Dhadakne Do", Alankrita Shrivastava's more compassionate, empathetic, sensitive
work. But since yesterday, the kind "Lipstick Under My Burkha" and Seema and emotional in comparison to men.
of reaction we have received is Pahwa's "Pind Daan". "It's a highly sacred position to be in and
really overwhelming. It's a surreal This year, he has two in the pipeline ‑‑ there is definitely a reason behind it. In my
feeling that audience has accepted Shrivastava's "Dolly Kitty Aur Woh opinion, it's their sense of owning a power‑
our film with open arms," said Chamakte Sitare", for which shooting is on, ful core with a lining of a soft edge to it,"
Vicky Kaushal. Actor Vicky Kaushal at the trailer launch of film ʻUriʼ. and Meghna's "Chaapaak", which will start he added.
18 January 19-25, 2019 INDIA FEATURES TheSouthAsianTimes.info
Houthi drone strike dies spying for China has been fired
by the Chinese tech company.
Aden: Chief of Yemen's military Poland's counterintelligence
inte lligence agency Brigadier service confirmed that a
General Saleh Tamah injured in a Chinese citizen suspected of
Houthi drone strike against an spying had been arrested. Polish
army parade died of his wounds, state media identified the sus‑
an official said. pect as Huawei's sales director
T he Iranian‑backed Shiite in the country.
Houthi group targeted the strate‑ China's embassy in Poland
gic military air base of Anad three named him as Weijing Wang. In
days ago, killing six soldiers and a statement, Huawei said it had
injuring 20 others including high‑ fired Wang for bringing the
ranking army commanders, company into "disrepute."
Xinhua news agency reported cit‑ Huawei is a Chinese telecom‑
ing officials. Head of Yemen's Intelligence munications company that is
Tamah was seriously injured Service Brigadier General viewed by US government of fi‑ Huawei is a Chinese telecommunications company.
along with the army's chief of Saleh Tamah. cials as a national security risk.
staf f and moved immediately to cial media that the drone attack Other countries have concerns said. A court has ordered the where they are based," it added.
receive treatment in the southern on the military parade in Lahj too: It has been prevented from pair to be held for three months, A spokesperson for the
port city of Aden, informed came as a "response to the contin‑ supplying next‑generation 5G and they face up to 10 years in Chinese Embassy to Poland said
sources said. ued raids of Saudi aggression tar‑ equipment to Australia and New prison if convicted. the country was "highly con‑
According to medical sources geting innocent citizens." Zealand. Both have pleaded not guilty, cerned about this incident."
based in Aden, the injuries of Yemeni observers warned that The company has attracted according to Polish state broad‑ Poland had been asked to
Tamah were very severe and he the Houthi drone strike that tar‑ even greater scrutiny following caster TVP. Zaryn has not arrange a consular visit "as soon
underwent a number of surgeries geted the Saudi‑backed Yemeni the arrest of its chief financial responded to CNN's requests for as possible" and to protect the
but died of his wounds earlier in army commanders could jeopard‑ of ficer last month in Canada, comment. "rights and interests, safety and
the day. ize the ongoing ef forts aimed at CNN reported. The Chinese company in its humanitarian treatment of the
General Tamah was born in ending the country's conflict Stanislaw Zaryn, a spokesman statement said that Wang's person involved," the spokesper‑
1950 in Lahj province, in Yemen's peacefully. for Polish counterintelligence, "alleged actions have no rela‑ son added.
south, and appointed by the inter‑ The impoverished Arab country said in a statement to the coun‑ tion to the company." Huawei is one of China's lead‑
nat ionally‑backed Yemeni has been locked in a civil war try's of ficial press agency that "Huawei complies with all ing tech companies.
President Abd‑Rabbu Mansour since the Iranian‑backed Shiite the Chinese citizen had been applicable laws and regulations It se lls more smartphones
Hadi to lead the military intelli‑ Houthi rebels overran much of arrested along with a Polish citi‑ in the countries where it oper‑ than Apple (AAPL) and builds
gence agency last year. the country militarily and seized zen. ates, and we require every advanced telecommunications
The Houthis claimed responsi‑ all northern provinces, including The homes of the suspects employee to abide by the laws networks in countries around
bility and said through their offi‑ the capital Sanaa, in 2014. were searched, the statement and regulations in the countries the world.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info BUSINESS January 19-25, 2019 21
Urdu editions of 'The Ministry...' unceremoniously w ithdrew Sahgal for the inaugural honors
Sahgal's invite to inaugurate the at the three‑day event starting
ABMSS 92nd literary confer‑ on January 11, added
New Delhi: Booker edit ion "Bepanah
ence, Joshi emailed his resigna‑ Mhaisalkar.
w inning nove list Shazmani Ki Mumlikat"
tion to the organizers, hours After the Sahg al episo de,
Arund hat i Roy have both been pub‑
before the mega‑event opens in many writers and invitees have
launched the Hindi and lished by Rajkamal
Yavatmal. already threatened to boycott
Urdu editions of her Prakashan.
He said that he was "tired" of the 92nd ABMSS for the treat‑
second nove l "T he Ashok Maheshwari,
replying to media queries since ment meted out to the 91‑year‑
Ministry of Utmost Managing Director of
the past couple of days after the old English writer (Sahgal).
Happiness" at the New Rajkamal Prakashan,
Sahgal episode burst into open Established in 1960, the
Delhi World Book Fair said that it was a matter
and has not been able to dis‑ ABMSM is the influential apex
here on Wednesday. of g reat joy that the
charge his duties as the ABMSM body of all Marathi literary
The much‑acclaimed translation of this book
President. organizations in Maharashtra
novelist, who rose to has come for Hindi and
Joshi was caught in a cross‑ and other parts of India, besides
fame follow ing her Urdu readers.
Hindi edition "Aapar Khushi Ka fire with some pointing fingers a few abroad, under whose aus‑
debut novel "The God of Small "T he Ministry of Utmost
Gharana", translated by at him for withdrawing Sahgal's pices the annual literary con‑
Things" was present at Rajkamal Happiness" has been translated
Manglesh Darbal, and the Urdu invite and blaming the ABMSS ventions are organized.
Prakashan's Jalsa Ghar stall. The into 49 languages.
B
ad habits can be hard to daily meeting ritual of apprecia‑ cated staff look terrible. Question
break, and for business tion creates space for each exec‑ processes and communication
leaders who have them, utive to share what they appreci‑ first, before you explore the inten‑
they can be deal‑breakers. ate most, and it opens up the tions, character or capabilities of
In a survey by Leadership IQ, room to clearer thinking and those involved. Research shows
an online training firm, the pri‑ increased collaboration. that believing in your people pays
mary reasons CEOs were fired ‑ 4Give ‑ within limits. There are off.
mismanaging change, ignoring many advantages to being a giver, 4Have high expectations of oth‑
customers, tolerating low per‑ but striking a balance is important ers. Leaders who set the bar high
formers, and not enough action ‑ to remain productive. Sharing and then give their teams latitude
were often related to unproduc‑ information and resources culti‑ to reap more benefits than those
tive habits. vates an abundance mindset, who simply tell their teams what
“Although leaders who display bringing benefits that both the to do. Those whose habits include
these behaviors generally know taining comfort‑zone networks, bad‑luck events. Bad luck, such company and the leader can reap. valuing autonomy and individual
what to do, and how to do it, needing to be liked, neglecting to as the extended absence of a key But there are limits; if youʼre giv‑ responsibility can build something
their unproductive habits render listen enough ‑ and they are hard employee, affords an opportuni‑ ing away too much time and too great over time. High expectations
them unable to get things done ‑ to break.” ty for the leader to empower oth‑ many resources, you wonʼt be able and empowerment are key.
with dire consequences,” says But Green says they can be bro‑ ers by challenging them to learn, to accomplish your own objec‑ 4Maintain intentional focus.
Mark Green, a speaker, coach to ken and suggests replacing them grow and contribute in new tives. Give, but know when to say Excessive multi‑tasking is ineffec‑
CEOs and author of Activators: A with foundational habits that ways. Whatever the circum‑ no. tive. To make real progress, hold a
CEOʼs Guide to Clearer Thinking make leaders successful. He lists stances, leaders rapidly come to 4 When problems arise, focus on small number of very important
and Getting Things Done. “The six of them here. understand the value of generat‑ process ‑ not people. When some‑ things in your mind and let go of
most common unproductive 4Capitalize on luck. This is a ing return on luck. Everyone thing goes wrong, a common the rest. Ruthless prioritization
leadership habits include avoid‑ habit of forward‑moving thinking wins. approach is to find fault with the and focus in execution will set you
ing decisions and conflict, main‑ in response to both good‑ and 4Be grateful. When you appreci‑ people involved. But bad or poorly free.
A
According to Meredith Berkman, scent, if they show a change in
new study now finds intakes. business to print a few T‑shirts co‑founder of Parents Against mood, take frequent breaks to puff
that people who eat The team was commissioned with a straightforward message: Vaping e‑cigarettes, the first thing and share vape‑related posts on
diets that have higher by the World Health "Athletes don't vape." parents can do is educate them‑ social media. According to
fiber content have a lower risk Organization to inform future The trend caught on and she selves. experts, symptoms that children
of death and chronic diseases fiber intake recommendations. started receiving requests from Researchers are worried that e‑ are vaping include anxiety, dis‑
such as stroke or cancer. According to the study, 15 people in Los Angeles, cigarettes could put children's tractibility, headaches and stom‑
The study, that was published percent to 30 percent reduced Sacramento, and Canada who developing brains at risk, get them ach aches. Other symptoms may
in the journal The Lancet saw the risk of death and chronic wanted in on the positive message. hooked on nicotine early in life include increased thirst, nose‑
co‑author of the study, Andrew diseases in people who includ‑ She even invited local athletes to and be an initiation to smoking bleeds, and mood changes.
Reynolds, a researcher at the ed the most fiber in their diets
University of Otago in New as compared to those with the
Zealand, state that fiber's lowest intake. A fiber‑rich diet
health benefits have been was linked, on average, to a 22
recorded by over 100 years of percent reduced the risk of
research, reported CNN. stroke, a 16 percent lower risk
The study finds that higher of Type 2 diabetes and colorec‑
intakes of fiber "led to a tal cancer, and a 30 percent
reduced incidence of a surpris‑ reduced risk of death from
ingly broad range of relevant coronary heart disease.
diseases (heart disease, type 2 Based on the research,
diabetes, and colorectal can‑ experts recommend 25 grams
cer)," reduced body weight and (0.88 ounces) to 29 grams
total cholesterol, and reduced (1.02 ounces) of fiber each day.
mortality, Reynolds wrote. Higher amounts are even more
Similar findings were shown beneficial, according to the
with increasing whole‑grain analysis. (IANS)
26 January 19-25, 2019 FIRST PERSON TheSouthAsianTimes.info
A
s a native New Yorker I
did not know much about
Pakistan, and I had no
need to know either. The media
coverage of 9/11 carnage fol‑
lowed by the war in Afghanistan
was my only lesson about the
geog raphy and culture of
Pakistan. My impression of
Pakistan was that it was a coun‑
try ravaged by the war where
people ate spicy food and played
cricket. I did not care for any of
these things. However, a few
years later, I came in touch with
several Pakistani professionals
and artists who showed me dif‑
ferent dimensions of Pakistan,
which I have come to appreciate
a lot.
Roy Johnson with Dr Khawar Nazir and his wife. Dr. Nazir took care The author, seen in a Pakistani dress, is a
In the summer of 2010, I was
of Roy after a major surgery. That led Roy to get introduced native New Yorker. He has a growing
scheduled to have major surgery.
to a little Pakistan here in New York. interest in Pakistani art and culture.
I was dreading the process of
rehabilitation and recuperation
Initially, I wanted to say, “None of In this process, I have met a few
after the procedure. At the time,
a Pakistani physician, Dr. Khawar
your business”, but I have of the finest people I know in my APPNA, the 3rd largest doctors body
I
learned to give standard answers life, and now they have become
Nazir, who was finishing his der‑ ndian doctors in America have made a name for themselves. The
to all expected questions from my best friends. Dr. Adnan Nadir,
matolog y training at Boston contributions of Pakistani physicians are also getting better
practical strangers. a Pakistani British cardiologist,
University, offered to be my care‑ known now. The Association of Physicians of Pakistani Descent
Personally I have struggled Dr. Saad Saeed, a Pakistani
taker. It was a very generous of North America (APPNA), headquartered in a suburb of Chicago,
because I was uncomfortable in Canadian dentist, and their fami‑
of fer, but I was re luctant to represents over 17,000 physicians and health care professionals of
dealing with Pakistani women. I lies are among the closest people
accept it. I barely knew him, and Pakistani descent. It is the third largest medical association in the
had the image that they are all in my life. My current plan for a
I did not want to burden him. United States after American Medical Association and the American
complete ly covered up and weekend getaway is usually visit‑
Yet he insisted, and then for Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI). Last year DC
docile, but I have met many inde‑ ing Dr. Hafiz Imran and his fami‑
three weeks, he took excellent based actor/filmmaker Noor Naghmi made a docudrama titled
pendent, confident and smart ly in Providence, Rhode Island.
care of me at my home. He “Angels Within” that spotlights how so many Pakistani American
ladies from Pakistan. My friend's I have a deep interest in art,
cooked, helped me with my phys‑ doctors are providing healthcare in the rural parts of the US. It
mother who visited New York and I spend some time volunteer‑
ical therapy and drove me to all blends a fictional story about discrimination against Muslims in the
was a charming, polite and grace‑ ing at the Museum of Modern
of my clinical appointments. country with interviews with real‑life Pakistani American doctors.
ful lady. She loved my dog and Art. For the last few years, I have
T his interaction changed my
would pat his back gently, while been follow ing the budding
opinion about Pakistanis and production. I was particularly all my life. I also feel great pleas‑
most Pakistani men were afraid Pakistani art scene in New York. I
Pakistan forever. Since then I impressed by the personality and ure to know so many talented,
of the dog and at times wouldnʼt am always impressed by the
have met several Pakistani pro‑ work of Usman Riaz who show‑ kind and hardworking people.
even shake hands with me if the quality of the art that Pakistani
fessionals, and most of them cased his movie The Waves in Because of my frequent talk
dog was lying in my lap. I was artists are producing. The work
have stayed as my guests for the New York Independent film about Pakistan, my American
amused at how much she of several Pakistani art ists
days or weeks. festival. In recent weeks, I have friends have reported that many
enjoyed visit ing the tourist including Ashna Khanʼs photo‑
For the past several years, my also enjoyed witnessing the pro‑ of their physicians are from
attractions –Times Square and graphs and miniatures by Irfan
close Pakistani friends have host‑ duct ion of an up‑coming Pakistan as well. They always
Niagara Falls. I did not expect Hasan hang on the walls in my
ed a BBQ at my house and invited Pakistani movie, The Forbidden praise them for being competent
this at all from an old, traditional house. I have attended the South
others to join them. Dr. Hafiz Steps. and caring. Now every year, I
lady from Pakistan. Asian Film Festival which has
Imran is the organizer and the I have also visited the opening even spend Christmas and
Several of the Pakistani physi‑ screened very fine films from
master che f who se lects the of several art shows of Pakistani Thanksgiving, the most impor‑
cians and artists have stayed at Pakistan, such as Dukhtar and
guest list that has only one crite‑ artists in dif ferent galleries in tant holidays of the year, with
my home for days or even weeks. These Birds Fly, an independent
rion: the person must be from New York. T he master artist the family of my friend Fareed
Pakistan. Over the years I have R.M. Naeem really impressed me from Pakistan. They meet and
met several Pakistani physicians with his discussion of Pakistani greet me as one of their own
and their families. I have found art, ident ity and Sufism. My family members.
them to be hardworking, pleas‑ sports interests are primarily And on days of the Eid, I wear
ant and friendly. But not every‑ limited to American sports and shalwar Qammez and eat kheer
thing about them sits well with tennis and that eliminates cricket (rice pudding). I do not under‑
my all‑American lifestyle. At from the equation, but I follow stand Urdu, but by now I know
times, Aisam‑Ul‑Haq because of his you can answer anything with
I find them intrusive, with little Pakistani connect ion and achha, achha or bilkul.
understanding of my expecta‑ watched him playing twice, in Khawar Nazir has since moved
tions regarding personal space. California and New York. back to Lahore, Pakistan, but
Many of them will ask the ques‑ I am so thankful that one inci‑ every year he visits me with his
tions which Americans would dent of a caring attitude has wife. Their wedding photo sits on
find impolite or even rude. It usu‑ opened a window for so many my piano to remind me of their
ally starts with “I hope you do unexpected positive events in my love and care. I am blessed to
not mind me asking but…” life. Some of my best friends are have a little bit of Pakistan
Where is your family? Do you now living in Pakistan. On my around me in New York. I plan
own this house? How much birthday, Christmas and other to visit Pakistan someday, and I
mortgage do you pay? How do holidays I get more wishes from know that I will meet many inter‑
you know other Pakistanis? The The author enjoying a Christmas meal with his Pakistan and Pakistanis than esting people and have valuable
list of questions never ends. Pakistani hosts and other guests. from America where I have lived experiences.
TheSouthAsianTimes.info COLUMNS January 19-25, 2019 27
K
career in medicine. While this can incredibly challenging to stand out deep interest is portrayed. te lling a memorable story, the
admissions officers will be able to risten Moon is an inde‑
be a daunting commitment at such a so students should develop a deep Concentrate on Science
recall yours more easily. pendent college coun‑
young age, there are perks such as a interest that they spend time and Your academic transcript will be
● Refrain from repeating selor and founder of
shorter time at a university (some energy cultivating. By focusing on one of the first things looked at by
extracurricular activities that can MoonPrep.com. Moon Prep
programs are only six or seven something related to the science or the admission officers. GPA, rigor of
easily be found in the application. provides one‑on‑one college
years instead of the typical eight) medical field, it can show that they courses, course selection, class rank,
The essay is your one chance to counseling services. They
and greater flexibility over their can devote time and energy to a sin‑ and standardized testing scores are
showcase your personality. guide students through the
course selection. However, many of gle task and do it well, which is all carefully scrutinized. Therefore,
● Do not procrastinate. It will entire application process
these programs admit less than 20 more impressive than doing many students should create a resume
most likely take you longer than you including completing the
students per year. To stand out, activities at a mediocre level. that will attract the notice of the
think to write a compelling essay FAFSA.
there are a few tips that students A memorable interest showcased BS/MD admissions office.
IMMIGRATION
VISA
tional” green card that is only evidence to establish that their marriage. marriage was entered into in good
valid for two years. Before the marriage was a bona fide real mar‑ After the whole I‑751 packet is faith they will send a request for
two‑year mark is up the individual
TALK
riage and not just a business trans‑ filed, the conditional permanent evidence, which must be timely
must file a I‑751 form to remove action to get a green card. The resident will receive a receipt answered. Or an interview may be
the conditions on their green card. individual must also provide evi‑ notice which also extends their scheduled. Once USCIS reviews the
If the conditions on their green dence that the marriage is legally status. The conditional permanent whole I‑751 packet it will deter‑
card are not removed, then the ed: the marriage ended in divorce, terminated. If the U.S. citizen resident is allowed to continue to mine if the conditional permanent
green card and their status and annulment, or death of the U.S. cit‑ spouse died than the individual live and work in the U.S. while resident qualifies for a waiver of
right to stay in the U.S. will termi‑ izen spouse, the individual will suf‑ must provide a death certificate. their case is being processed, and joint filing and send a letter to the
nate. fer extreme hardship if they Evidence to establish a marriage travel the same as before. If USCIS applicant with their decision.
Normally to remove the condi‑ return to their home country, or was entered into in good faith
tions on a green card, the green would include wedding records, Dev Banad Viswanath is the Principal Attorney of
the individual was abused or treat‑
card holder and their spouse The Banad Law Offices PC in the United States, and
ed cruelly by their U.S. citizen birth certificates of children, joint
would jointly file Form I‑751, Banad Immigration in India for which Attorney
spouse. This article will focus on financial records, pictures, among
Petition to Remove the Conditions Michael Phulwani is also affiliated as Of Counsel.
waiver of the joint filing require‑ other items.
With Offices in Manhattan, Queens, Bangalore, and
of Residence, within 90 days of the ment due to divorce, annulment, The following is what must be Mumbai, the firm is able to assist clients with all
expiration of the green card. or death. submitted to USCIS along with facets of the immigration process, including
There are a few circumstances An individual may request a Form I‑751: Employment Visas, Consular Visa Assistance,
where an individual may file Form waiver of the joint filing require‑ 4 Copy of the permanent resi‑ Student Visas, Removal & Deportation, US
I‑751 without their spouse; this is ment for Form‑751 only after dent card, front and back; Citizenship and Green Card Applications based on
when the individual applies for a their divorce/annulment is final or 4 Evidence that the marriage Family or Employment. Dev B. Viswanath can be
waiver of the joint filing require‑ if the U.S. citizen spouse died. If was entered into in good faith reached at Dev@Banadlaw.com and 718‑361‑5999.
ment. There are three circum‑ the couple are just separated or in and that the marriage was gen‑ Dev will be in India working from those offices
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28 January 19-25, 2019 HUMOR TheSouthAsianTimes.info
BEST
RATE
FOR
INDIA
AND
PAKISTAN
New York Head Quarter
422‑S Broadway
HICKSVILLE
NY 11801
J
they ever experienced in their cannot silence your mind to con‑
yoti Meditation (light medi‑ physical life. The joy they felt in tinue meditating. To help keep
tation) is an introductory this world of light was so tremen‑ your mind from distracting you,
practice used in Science of dous many did not want to return you can mentally and silently
Spirituality̶Sawan Kirpal Ruhani to life. During this time, they no repeat any Name of God with
Mission that anyone of any age longer felt any pain. The light was which you feel comfortable. This
can try on your own. The full bright and intense but not scorch‑ repetition should go on mentally,
meditation technique used in ing. This experience was so loving and bliss that lasts with us even physical world. With closed eyes, and not aloud, as you continue to
Science of Spirituality, which it transformed their lives and they when we come out of meditation. focus your attention in front of gaze. This silent repetition gives
leads to inner experiences of spir‑ realized how important it is to be To get started with the Jyoti you. Do not put pressure on your the mind something to do so that
itual realms of light within, is loving. They returned to their Meditation practice, which any‑ eyes. Also, do not raise your eyes it does not send thoughts to you
called Shabd Meditation or Surat body as it was not their time to one can try on your own at home upwards towards the direction of that can distract you from medi‑
Shabd Yoga as is practiced by die, but they were transformed by or anywhere you like, sit in a com‑ the eyebrows as that puts pres‑ tating. As your attention con‑
people all over the world. the experience. They no longer fortable pose, most convenient to sure on your eyes and forehead verges at the third or single eye,
A good analogy to understand feared death and knew that there you, in which you can sit still for and can result in a headache. you may then see inner lights.
the joy of meditation can be was more to life than their physi‑ the longest possible time. While Rather, keep your eyes focused These lights are a reflection of the
found in the reports of those hav‑ cal body. They knew they could meditating, it is not necessary to gently in front of you and look lights of the inner realms. By gaz‑
ing a near‑death experience, or exist beyond this body. hold hands or touch anyone else, into the middle of what appears ing deeper into the middle of that
NDE. In such experiences, some‑ According to a Gallup Poll, as any movement brings your within. Keep gazing horizontally, light, you can tap into the spiritu‑
one who underwent a physical over thirteen million people attention back down into the focusing about eight to ten inches al treasures within and enjoy the
trauma or accident may have reported this near‑death experi‑ body, distracting from concentra‑ in front of you with closed eyes. profound peace, joy, bliss, and
undergone clinical death. As doc‑ ence. The good news is that peo‑ tion at the seat of the soul, also Look lovingly into the middle of happiness unlike any found in
tors and medical practitioners ple can experience the realms of called the third eye, single eye, what appears in front of you. At this world. Those who meditate
worked on their body, the inner light through mediation shiv netra, divya chakshu, ajna or first, you may see either darkness are permeated with a divine love
patients experienced floating without the trauma of a near‑ aggya charka, tenth door, or or light, sparks of light, pinpoints that engulfs and fulfills them. The
above their body and watching death experience. This bliss and daswan dwar (located between of light, flashes of light, circles of beauty of meditation is that this
the procedure being done on love can be ours any time we and behind the two eyebrows). light, or light of any color, such as joy can remain with you even
them. Some floated through walls want through meditation. When Close your eyes, gently, as you red, orange, yellow, blue, green, after you resume your daily activ‑
to witness friends and relatives in we tap into this place of peace do when we go to sleep, but purple, violet, white, or golden ities.
other rooms, what they were and calm, we naturally are remain wide awake. Closing your color. No matter what you see, May you find this meditation
doing, wearing, or saying, and beyond the reaches of stress and eyes keeps you from being dis‑ continue to gaze into the middle helpful in improving the health of
later, when the patient was anger. We are in a place of joy tracted by the outer sights of the of what appears. You may see your body, mind, and soul.