The Indian Weekender | 10 May 2024

Friday, 10 May 2024 

Volume 16 / Issue 07 

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NEW MIGRANTS 

URJITA BHARDWAJ 

The two missing Indian healthcare 

workers, who went fishing in 

Northland, were this week identified 

as Sarath Kumar, 37, and Ferzil Babu, 34. 

The duo was fishing at Taiharuru, 

Whangārei Heads, at a spot known as The 

Gap last week. 

Emergency services were alerted around 

midnight after the pair failed to return 

home as expected by 11pm. 

Kumar's body was found in the water on 

Friday by the police dive squad. 

However, the search continues for Babu. 

A police spokesperson said the search, 

now including the shoreline, was still 

ongoing with the assistance of a drone. 

Poor marine weather forecasts 

complicated search efforts, with easterly 

swells hindering operations on the water 

last weekend, according to a police 

statement. 

An extensive search involving multiple 

agencies was conducted over the weekend, 

but the missing Indian was not located. 

The police, along with other agencies, are 

closely monitoring weather forecasts. 

• Continued on Page 6 

Two healthcare workers from 

Kerala drown fishing in The Gap, 

notorious for large swells 

The body of Sarath Kumar (left) has been found; while Ferzil Babu is still missing. (Supplied photo) 

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Read online www.iwk.co.nz Friday, 10 May 2024 

NEW ZEALAND 3 

Incoherence, mistrust cloud 

INZ student visa process 

HIMANSHU RAI 

In an era where global mobility 

and cultural exchange should 

be celebrated and encouraged, 

Immigration New Zealand's 

(INZ) approach to student visa 

applications is, in stark contrast, 

ridden with unreasonable and 

irrational decision-making. 

The decline letters being 

handed over to offshore students 

reflect inconsistent decisions and 

ill-explained reasons permeating 

the decision-making process. 

The stakeholders’ perception 

is that such a process is less 

about safeguarding the country’s 

interests and more about creating 

uncertainty and unpredictability 

for those who seek to contribute, 

learn, and experience New 

Zealand. 

Challenging the one-size-fitsall 

paradigm 

The sanctity of a visa 

application process lies in the 

assurance that every decision 

made has a fair and just 

grounding. This is also reflected 

in the immigration instructions 

published by Immigration New 

Zealand. 

However, Immigration New 

Zealand's recent methodology 

paints a concerning picture of 

deviation from their own laid down 

principles. 

The once methodical and 

customised evaluations have now 

been replaced with a one-sizefits-all 

approach that demeans the 

genuine aspirations of countless 

international students. 

Decisions that should arise 

from careful consideration and 

evaluation are being delegated 

to templates and profiling. 

Some decisions also reflect that 

immigration officers may not 

have a complete understanding 

of documentation from different 

parts of the world and are making 

decisions without considering the 

complete documents and their 

import. 

This shift away from a nuanced 

consideration of an applicant's 

potential contribution to New 

Zealand's educational landscape 

suggests a move towards a 

more impersonal, assembly-line 

method of processing student 

visa applications, lacking the 

essential human element crucial 

for a fair evaluation. 

Eligible students presenting 

compelling cases are bewildered 

by the lack of reasonable rationale 

behind the rejection of their 

applications. 

The templated decline letters, 

as ambiguous as they are 

impersonal, leave many questions 

unanswered. What specific 

immigration criteria were not met? 

What information was 

unconvincing? What led the 

immigration office to doubt the 

student’s intentions to study? 

These are not trivialities but 

indispensable guides for students 

and their parents who often 

plan to invest substantially to 

Himanshu Rai 

enable their children to gain 

an internationally recognised 

qualification and improve their 

future career prospects. 

Official Information Act 

documents, accessed in 

accordance with the Privacy 

Act, reveal that immigration 

officers are resorting to phrases 

such as "deal breaker"—phrases 

not recognised within official 

immigration guidelines. 

This approach prematurely 

terminates a detailed assessment 

of student visa applications, 

culminating in their rejection 

through the dispatch of a generic 

decline letter. 

This practice highlights a 

deviation from standard procedure 

and underscores the necessity for 

a more transparent and consistent 

application review process within 

the realm of immigration services. 

Documents acquired via the 

Official Information Act also 

indicate that almost all offshore 

applications from India and 

Nepal are going to offshore 

Risk and Verification officers as 

per the protocol established by 

Immigration New Zealand for 

evaluating offshore student visa 

applicants. 

This strategy involves 

analysing applicants' educational 

backgrounds, work experience, 

nationalities, and selected study 

programmes to categorise them 

into high or low-risk groups. 

High-risk applications are 

subject to enhanced scrutiny by 

immigration officers, influenced 

by comments from the offshore 

Risk and Verification officers, who 

apparently do not have access 

to the student's complete profile. 

In such instances, even a trivial 

comment such as “no online 

presence of the company sighted” 

can inadvertently trigger a biased 

approach by onshore immigration 

officers. 

This approach fosters 

inconsistent and subjective 

decision-making by immigration 

officers. 

An appeal for 

coherence and 

consistency 

There should 

not be critique 

without a 

proposal for 

improvement. 

What is needed 

is a system 

guided by 

transparency 

and consistency, 

one that not 

only protects 

New Zealand's 

interests but 

also fosters an 

environment of 

mutual respect. 

Immigrants, 

students or 

otherwise, 

should be 

regarded as 

partners in 

a common 

mission to 

propel New 

Zealand to 

greater heights. 

INZ officials 

often highlight 

the Client 

Complaint 

Resolution 

Process 

(CCRP) as the 

established 

way to tackle 

issues when a 

process failure 

is detected 

and resolved. 

However, due to 

the templated 

nature of decline 

letters, students are required 

to wait a month to receive the 

Client File Records, which are 

significantly redacted, before any 

issues in the assessment process 

can be identified. In addition, the 

complaints process is confined 

to just Stage 1, which mainly 

produces templated responses 

from the designated Immigration 

Managers of the Immigration 

Officers giving decisions; there is 

no Stage 2 as used to be the case 

till 2017. 

It is paramount that Immigration 

New Zealand revisits its approach 

by discarding adhocism in favour 

of a transparent and consistent 

process. Every decline letter must 

contain a rationale and reason for 

the decline, and every decision 

must be based on a fair and 

reasonable assessment of each 

individual application. It is only 

through such means that New 

Zealand can truly claim to be an 

equitable destination for global 

talent. 

The call to action is clear 

and urgent. The restoration of 

consistent and just immigration 

practices in the processing of 

offshore student visa applications 

needs to be immediate. Our 

collective future—rich in diversity 

and promise—relies on the 

courage to confront the current 

misgivings and the commitment 

to do better. 

New Zealand, renowned for 

standing up for what is right, must 

lead by example in this regard, 

too. It is time to bring back the 

fairness that every international 

student and aspiring immigrant 

deserves, irrespective of their 

nationality. 

(Colonel Himanshu Rai (retd) is a 

former Indian Army officer, now 

CEO and Director at Aucklandbased 

Immigration Advisers 

New Zealand Ltd)

4 

NEW ZEALAND 


Read online www.iwk.co.nz 

Auckland Council 

wants you to know 

‘any dog can bite’ 

IWK BUREAU 

Auckland Council is calling 

for greater caution as a 

rise in dog attacks on 

children have set off alarm bells. 

As many as 12 children have 

been taken to hospital this year 

after being injured by canines 

across the city–especially 

South Auckland–a figure council 

officials say is likely just the tip of 

the iceberg since many incidents 

go unreported. 

“In 2023 alone, Auckland's 

hospitals saw 783 cases of dogrelated 

injuries in children under 

14 years old, with an additional 

300 injuries reported for the 15– 

19 age group,” an official says. 

Auckland Council has 

now launched an awareness 

campaign to educate both dog 

owners and residents to ensure 

the safety of children. 

Titled ‘Any dog can bite’, the 

campaign emphasises that even 

the most gentle and beloved dogs 

can exhibit aggressive behaviour 

under certain circumstances. 

Last year, the southern 

IWK BUREAU 

The Hindu Council of New 

Zealand, along with the 

Hindu Organisations, 

Temples, and Associations (HOTA) 

Forum, is gearing up for the next 

"Delegation of Hindu Leaders’ 

Pilgrimage to Bharat" in October 

2024, following the success of the 

inaugural pilgrimage. 

Led by Dr Guna Magesan, 

President of the Hindu Council of 

New Zealand, and spearheaded 

by Pravinbhai Patel, the twoweek 

spiritual journey that took 

place from 14-28 March this year, 

aimed to deepen participants' 

connections with their cultural and 

religious heritage. 

The yatra was designed to 

encompass significant spiritual, 

historical, and cultural landmarks 

across India. Inspired by the 

historic inauguration of the 

Ram Mandir in Ayodhya and 

the restoration of the Kashi 

Vishwanath corridor in Varanasi, 

the pilgrimage brought together 

20 delegates from New Zealand, 

Australia, and India. 

The journey began in Delhi, 

where delegates were warmly 

welcomed, and continued with 

visits to Kurukshetra, Rishikesh, 

Haridwar, Vrindavan, Mathura, 

Prayag Raj, Varanasi, Sarnath, 

and concluded in Ayodhya. Along 

the way, delegates participated in 

soul-enriching activities, including 

visits to temples, educational 

institutions, and spiritual 

ceremonies. 

"My personal experience was 

immensely gratifying, and I was 

really blessed to have met so many 

like-minded people and visited 

Auckland suburb of Papakura 

reported the highest number of 

dogs considered to be menacing 

in the region, with Auckland 

Council's animal management 

report showing 60 canines were 

reported and ordered to get 

neutered in the year to June. 

The breeds most involved in 

attacks, on people and animals 

combined, included American Pit 

Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull 

Terriers and Mastiffs. 

Councillor Josephine Bartley 

emphasises that while dogs 

are cherished members of 

families, it's essential to 

recognise that any dog can bite. 

She underscores the need for 

increased vigilance around dogs, 

particularly when children are 

involved. 

Dr Natasha Duncan-Sutherland, 

an emergency doctor at Auckland 

Hospital, says her research 

shows children aged 0-9 years 

are at a higher risk of serious 

injuries to the head and neck in 

dog attacks. 

She emphasised the necessity 

of a societal shift in perception, 

all the divine places, said Pravin 

Patel, one of the participants 

of the Yatra. 

Highlights of the pilgrimage 

included a yoga session guided 

moving from 

an assumption 

of safety to an 

awareness of 

potential risk. 

Auckland 

Council's 

Manager of 

Animal Management, Elly Waitoa, 

says dog owners must take up 

the primary responsibility of 

ensuring safety of people around. 

“We need close supervision when 

children are around dogs, both 

in private and public spaces,” 

she says, pointing to safety tips 

like never leaving children alone 

with dogs and understanding 

the potential triggers for dog 

aggression. 

The council’s new campaign 

includes a range of educational 

materials and outreach efforts, 

such as radio advertisements, 

street posters, community 

papers, and digital banners. 

Additionally, it offers advice 

for dog owners, including 

the importance of containing 

dogs within their property and 

supervising interactions with 

by Baba Ramdev at the Patanjali 

Ashram in Haridwar, experiencing 

the Ganga Aarti with Swami 

Chidanand Muni at Parmarth 

Niketan in Rishikesh, and 

children. 

Safety tips: 

Toddlers and children should 

not be allowed to: 

• be around dogs, including 

puppies, without adult 

supervision 

• put their face down to a dog’s 

face, hug or kiss it 

• play with a dog’s, food, 

feeding bowl, toys or bedding 

• wander into neighbouring 

participating in the holy bath at 

the Triveni Sangam in Prayag Raj. 

Delegates also had the opportunity 

to interact with personalities such 

as Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti, Union 

Minister of State, Ministry of 

Consumer Affairs, Food and Public 

Distribution and Ministry of Rural 

Development, and Dr Chinmaya 

Pandya, the Pro Vice Chancellor of 

Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya in 

properties where there may be 

dogs 

Signs of an unhappy dog: 

• tail is stiff and up or tucked 

tightly between the dogs leg 

• lips are pulled back and 

showing teeth, could be barking 

or growling 

• hard eyes that may appear 

black as pupils dilate 

• ears folded back tightly in a 

defensive position 

• hair on the back and shoulders 

standing rigid and uptight body 

Hindu Council NZ gears up for next pilgrimage to India 

"Delegation of Hindu Leaders’ Pilgrimage to Bharat" in March, 2024. Photo: Supplied 

"It was a truly special 

moment for us to partake 

in the sankalpam and 

shodasopachara puja to Ma 

Ganga," Participant Geetha 

Devi KS 

Haridwar. 

"The pinnacle of our journey 

undoubtedly was the Ganga Aarti. 

It was a truly special moment for 

us to partake in the Sankalpam 

and shodasopachara puja to Ma 

Ganga," said another participant 

Geetha Devi KS. 

In Varanasi, delegates attended 

the Mahamangala aarti at Kashi 

Vishwanath Mandir and explored 

the sacred sites associated with 

Lord Krishna's saga in Vrindavan 

and Mathura. The pilgrimage 

concluded with a visit to the 

Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, where 

delegates offered prayers. 

Dr Guna Magesan, President of 

the Hindu Council of New Zealand, 

expressed gratitude to Ajay Kumar 

and his family for making the tour 

arrangements and ensuring a 

seamless and enriching experience 

for all participants. 

For the full report of the 

delegation to India, visit https:// 

hotaforumnz.org/bharat-dhamyatra/. 

Individuals interested 

in participating in the Yatra in 

October 2024 are encouraged to 

email hindu.nz@gmail.com. 

Established in 1996 and formally 

incorporated in 2006, the Hindu 

Council of New Zealand is a nonprofit 

organisation dedicated to 

promoting Hindu culture in New 

Zealand. 

Through various initiatives 

and events such as New Zealand 

National Hindu conferences, 

annual Health for Humanity 

Yogathon, and Hindu Māori Hui, the 

council strives to foster interfaith 

understanding, community 

cohesion, and spiritual growth 

among Hindus and the wider 

community.


NEW ZEALAND 5 

How Bhartiya Samaj Trust helps Indians in NZ 

URJITA BHARDWAJ 

Relocating to a new 

country can pose various 

challenges, particularly 

when one is starting from 

scratch. Securing suitable jobs, 

finding appropriate schools for 

children, and reconnecting with 

one's cultural heritage can all be 

daunting tasks. 

It was this recognition of 

such challenges that led to the 

establishment of Bhartiya Samaj 

Charitable Trust New Zealand. 

The trust's primary objective is 

to provide guidance and support 

to Indian migrants, offering them 

a safe platform to seek accurate 

information, assistance as they 

settle in their new homeland and 

to provide distress support. 

Founded in 1995 by Jeet Suchdev 

and Roopa Suchdev, Bhartiya 

Samaj Charitable Trust is a notfor-profit 

organisation dedicated 

to serving the community. Suchdev 

recalls the motivations behind 

establishing the trust. 

"In the 90s, Indian migrants 

sought a platform to engage with 

fellow Indians who could guide 

them in the new land." 

The trust advises migrants on 

the laws of the land, provides 

settlement-related advice, and 

hosts events and seminars 

to educate and connect the 

community. 

Jeet Suchdev arrived in New 

Zealand in 1987 and managed 

successful business ventures in 

hospitality and tourism before 

switching to full-time social work. 

"I experienced inner changes within 

me. I decided to give everything 

up and become a freelance social 

worker." 

Suchdev says he was driven 

by a desire to serve the Indian 

community, especially newcomers 

who often felt lost and lacked 

knowledge on accessing 

healthcare, finding suitable jobs, 

and navigating the education 

system. 

"To address these challenges, 

we began conducting workshops 

and providing guidance on 

settlement-related, job seeking 

and educational opportunities. 

We also organised cultural 

classes for children to help them 

stay connected to their Indian 

roots," Suchdev says. 

The elders of the families who 

migrate from India often find 

themselves isolated and lonely in 

a foreign land. 

The trust, therefore, launched a 

senior citizen group that offers a 

space for the elderly to connect 

with social support. 

This wing also addresses issues 

of abuse and distress among the 

elderly, offering workshops and 

seminars to educate and support 

them. 

International Day of Older 

Persons, September 2022 

Suchdev explains that due to a 

lack of resources to address family 

violence professionally, they created 

Bhartiya Samaj's sister organisation, 

Roopa 

A u r 

A a p 

(RAA). 

RAA 

delivers 

professional 

help to 

the victims 

of family violence. 

Roopa Aur Aap, headed by Roopa 

Suchdev, provides free counselling 

and intervention programmes for 

victims of domestic violence and 

disputes, aiming to educate and 

empower individuals and families 

within the 

community. 

Both organisations are also 

working towards the development 

and empowerment of the South 

Asian community, particularly 

those facing inequality and family 

violence. 

They welcome individuals and 

families from all walks of life, regardless 

of a person's background 

or country of origin. 

"We do not discriminate. We 

serve the community members 

from adjoining countries like Sri 

Lanka, Nepal and Bangladesh," 

Suchdev says. 

The organisation is organising 

an event on the occasion of World 

Elder Abuse Awareness Day on 

June 8, highlighting its commitment 

to supporting and advocating 

for vulnerable senior members 

of the community. 

The trust also offers a diverse 

array of services through its Senior 

Citizens Wing, Children & Youth 

Wing, New Migrants Support Wing, 

and Social Services Wing. 

Pan Asian New Year 

Celebrations in Auckland, 2024 

The trust also offers colloquial 

English-speaking classes for 

seniors, assists newcomers in 

job-seeking and settlement, and 

provides networking opportunities. 

It also focuses on early years 

and youth development, offering 

Hindi language skills for children, 

overall personality development, 

and a deeper understanding of 

cultural values to help children remain 

grounded in their roots and 

strengthen family bonds. 

The trust's playgroup is particularly 

beneficial. It encourages children 

to develop social skills and 

emotional confidence, preparing 

them for independence at an early 

age. For parents attending the 

playgroup, it serves as a platform 

for social integration, improving 

their social lives through the development 

of new relationships. 

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6 

IWK BUREAU 

NEW ZEALAND 

The government may 

have dropped the ball 

on regulating property 

managers but a Kiwi-Indian top 

executive has decided to take 

matters in his hands. 

Rishabh Kapoor, CEO of property 

management firm Impressions 

Real Estate, says it’s time those 

driving the fortunes of renters and 

landlords firm up their game. 

“We have already reached 80% 

on our target to independently 

certify all our property managers 

to the level 4 standard by end 

of 2024, a requirement that 

would have become law had 

the proposed bill seen the light 

of day,” says Rishabh, whose 

company manages at least 1,000 

rental properties in Auckland. 

Renters and realtors are upset 

with the government’s decision 

last week to scrap the bill meant 

to regulate property managers 

over concerns about unethical and 

unlawful behaviours. 

They say the current state of 

the property management sector 

lacks any minimum standards 

or basic checks and balances to 

protect tenants and landlords. 

But Housing Minister Chris 

Bishop told Parliament's Social 

Services and Regulations 

Committee to stop considering the 

bill last week, indicating the costbenefit 

analysis was marginal and 

uncertain. 

“While the government has 

abandoned plans for regulation, 

it is critical the industry adopts 

a level of self-regulation to help 

restore investor confidence,” 

Rishabh says. 

He points to industry data that 

shows the recent tax benefits 

offered on residential rental 

properties and the 90-day eviction 

law have not impacted a chronic 

shortage of residential rental 

stock as the government had 

hoped.” 

“The figures show the number of 

prospective tenants viewing each 

rental property has continued to 

grow, doubling over the last six 

months. 

“Residential vacancy rates 

have dropped from 3.8 per cent 

to 2.3 per cent, and prices have 

increased by six per cent over the 

same period.” 

This is based on internal data 

measured from Nov - April 2024 

across over 1,000 properties in the 

Greater Auckland region. 

Rishabh says while the return 

of interest deductibility and the 


Property Managers Bill: 

Kiwi-Indian takes lead 

as govt shies away 

“There are a number 

of property managers 

out there working 

out of the back of 

their car who simply 

don't understand the 

industry's requirements 

and legalities." Rishabh 

Kapoor 

ability to evict tenants with 90- 

day notices will be welcomed by 

some landlords, more is needed to 

address the growing supply deficit 

and reduce rental prices. 

“There are a number of property 

managers out there working out 

of the back of their car who simply 

don't understand the industry's 

requirements and legalities. 

“The downstream impact of this 

is that it can result in thousands 

of dollars worth of damage for 

owners and as a result, they often 

want to exit the rental industry.” 

Rishabh says the Residential 

Property Managers Bill would 

have changed that by ensuring 

property 

managers were licensed, 

well trained, and subject to a 

complaints and disciplinary 

process if they don't adhere to 

industry standards. 

“Other investment sectors 

already have similar protections 

around advisors and we need 

a way of signalling to the 

market that residential property 

management is no longer 

operating like the Wild West 

and their multi-million dollar 

investment has appropriate 

safeguards.” 

He adds introducing a minimum 

training standard will provide the 

same reassurance for investors as 

envisioned under the now junked 

bill. 

Rotary Club Papatoetoe Central's gala dinner raises funds 

IWK BUREAU 

On Sunday, May 4, 

the Rotary Club 

Papatoetoe Central 

hosted its Annual Indian 

Diaspora Fundraising 

Dinner at the Mahatma 

Gandhi Centre, a gathering 

that showcased the power 

of community service and 

philanthropy. 

The event brought 

together leaders from 

various sectors to support 

charitable causes, making 

a tangible impact in 

local and international 

communities. 

Rotary, a global network 

of 1.4 million individuals, 

envisions a world where 

people unite to create 

lasting change. 

With over 46,000 

clubs worldwide, Rotary 

members collaborate 

to promote peace, 

fight disease, support 

education, and address 

societal challenges. 

As founder Paul Harris 

famously said, "Whatever 

Rotary may mean to us, to 

the world it will be known 

by the results it achieves." 

The event was graced 

by distinguished guests, 

including Members of 

Parliament Hon Jenny 

Salesa, Honorary Consul 

of India Bhav Dhillon, 

Honorary Consul of 

Nepal Dinesh Khadka, 

Past District Governor 

Allan Smith, his wife 

Sue Smith, and Michael 

Wood. Rotarians Jennie 

Hearing, Raj Chand, and 

District Governor Elect 

Vidhya Nand also joined in 

support of the cause. 

Ashima Singh, Chair 

of the event, expressed 

gratitude to the over 

200 attendees for their 

support, highlighting 

the significance of the 

occasion in raising 

funds for charities. She 

extended special thanks 

to those who generously 

contributed and dedicated 

their time, emphasizing 

their commitment to 

community welfare. 

The evening commenced 

with Raj Pradeep Singh, 

President of Rotary Club 

Papatoetoe Central, 

presenting an overview of 

the club's initiatives and 

achievements. 

Raj highlighted 

successful projects 

executed throughout the 

year, both locally and 

internationally, including 

the club's recognition at 

a conference in Fiji for its 

exceptional contributions. 

Raj also shared 

upcoming projects, such 

as Pink Ribbon, book 

donations, and support 

for SPCA initiatives, 

showcasing the club's 

ongoing commitment 

to positive community 

impact. A substantial 

portion of the funds 

raised will be donated to 

End Polio Now and the 

Mental Health Foundation, 

demonstrating Rotary 

Club Papatoetoe Central's 

dedication to addressing 

pressing issues. 

The event also featured 

the presentation of 

Community Awards to 

individuals who have made 

exemplary contributions 

to their communities, 

embodying Rotary's ethos 

of service and goodwill. 

The prestigious Paul 

Harris Awards, Rotary's 

highest honor, were 

presented to recipients 

Gurpreet Kaur, Rachna 

Dave, Nidhi Bhasin, and 

Karnail Badhan for their 

significant contributions 

to humanitarian and 

educational objectives, 

reflecting Rotary's 

commitment to service 

and goodwill. 

The evening concluded 

with an exhilarating 

auction, where participants 

enthusiastically supported 

Rotary's goals. 

The event concluded 

with a dinner, raffle draw, 

and heartfelt gratitude to 

all participants, reaffirming 

Rotary's mission to make 

a positive impact on 

communities worldwide. 


Ill-fated 

health 

workers 

enjoyed 

fishing 

• Continued from Page 1 

Rabin Ranji, secretary of 

the Whangārei Malayalee 

Association, expressed shock 

over the incident, noting it was 

the first time the community 

had experienced such a 

tragedy, The New Zealand 

Herald reported. 

The association had 

appealed for support and 

donations in a Facebook post. 

Kumar, a registered nurse 

in the Whangārei Emergency 

Department, had only been 

living in Whangārei for two 

months after migrating to New 

Zealand in late 2023. 

He leaves behind a wife and 

a 5-year-old daughter. 

Babu moved to New Zealand 

after marrying his wife in 

January 2023. The couple 

welcomed a son six months 

ago. 

The families of the deceased 

Indians are grateful for the 

support and efforts of the 

police and search and rescue 

teams. 

A police liaison officer 

has been in constant touch 

with the association and the 

families. A Givealittle page 

has been set up to assist the 

families with expenses and 

repatriation. 

The search for Babu 

initially involved police search 

and rescue, a police Eagle 

helicopter, and LandSar 

volunteers. 

The national police dive 

squad and other agencies have 

since joined the operation. 

Hapū have placed a rāhui 

(prohibited access) around the 

Gap for at least five days. 

The fishing spot, known 

locally as The Gap, is notorious 

for its large swells and 

treacherous conditions. 

The Whangārei Malayalee 

Association is providing 

support to the men's families. 

Both men have one child each. 

Sijoy Alex, President 

of Whangarei Malayali 

Association told The Indian 

Weekender that although 

the family is devastated by 

the news, they have a good 

support system around them, 

and they also have been 

liaising with the families of 

their husbands back in India. 

The Indian High Commission 

is in touch with the Malayalee 

Association and is working to 

collect more information on 

the case. 

Local fishermen, on the 

other hand, stress the need 

to respect The Gap's dangers, 

which have claimed lives in 

the past. Police divers are 

expected to continue their 

search efforts on Friday.


NEW ZEALAND 7 

Why construction loan is harder 

to get than home mortgage 

RAVI BAJPAI 

Industry insiders are 

forecasting an uptick in the 

real estate market the coming 

year but securing a loan to 

develop a property is not a walk in 

the park. 

Construction loans are 

considered a high-risk 

proposition, and nine in 10 

applicants typically end up 

knocking at the doors of private 

lenders, unlike the home buying 

market where the conventional 

bank mortgage is the norm. 

One of New Zealand’s leading 

mortgage brokers Nathan Miglani 

says banks tend to rely on a lot of 

assurances before lending money 

for construction projects. 

“For instance, if you are 

planning to buy a piece of land 

and develop townhouses, the bank 

would want proof of pre-sales, 

etc. 

"Many building projects are not 

at that stage in their sales cycle 

at the time a loan is needed,” 

says Nathan, whose company NZ 

Mortgages has recently launched 

a specialised construction 

loan business by the name 

Construction Loans. 

Construction loans, unlike 

conventional mortgages, are 

considered high risk due to 

their complex nature and 

the uncertainties inherent 

in construction projects. 

Consequently, the process 

of obtaining such loans is 

significantly more arduous. 

It is relatively easy to find a 

broker for the traditional home 

mortgage but it’s much harder 

to find experts specialising in 

“You have broadly two 

types of applicants in 

this class-homeowners 

and first-time builders; 

and seasoned builders 

and developers. All 

these categories are 

different and require 

deft handling of the 

proposal and financial 

forecasting.” Nathan 

Miglani 

construction loans since they are 

few and far between. 

“There’s a scarcity of mortgage 

brokers focusing on construction 

loans since only a select few have 

the deep knowledge necessary to 

navigate the complexities of this 

domain,” Nathan says. 

Even within the construction 

loan industry the market is 

segregated and certain kinds of 

mortgages might be harder to find 

than others. 

A report by CBRE Research last 

year showed lenders were keener 

to fund townhouse development, 

even more than apartments, 

with seven in 10 domestic 

non-bank lenders saying that 

is their preferred option for new 

construction loans. 

The lender sentiment survey 

found industrial property lending 

was favoured, but funding land 

subdivisions wasn’t as popular 

as those two sectors, nor 

apartments. 

Nathan says applying for a 

construction loan requires a 

nuanced approach. 

“You have broadly two types 

of applicants in this classhomeowners 

and first-time 

builders; and seasoned builders 

and developers. 

"All these categories are 

different and require deft handling 

of the proposal and financial 

forecasting.” 

After a period of relative 

stagnation over nearly the last 

two years, there are promising 

signs of revival in the construction 

industry. 

Nathan says strong indicators 

point towards growth in the early 

months of 2025. 

“Bank interest rates have 

stabilised and astute developers 

are already proactively acquiring 

land.” 

Nathan says the launch of 

the construction loans division 

underscores NZ Mortgages' 

commitment to innovation and 

addressing the evolving needs of 

its clientele. 

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8 

NEW ZEALAND 

Kiwi-Indian's 

entrepreneurial 

success in 

Silicon Valley 



BLESSEN TOM/RNZ 

Start-up executive Ken 

Hendricks believes 

New Zealand offers 

young entrepreneurs plenty 

of opportunities despite the 

tough economic conditions that 

currently exist nationwide. 

Hendricks became the first 

Kiwi Indian to be accepted into 

the competitive Y Combinator 

start-up programme in the United 

States at the end of last year. 

"It felt like something was finally 

kicking off, and there was some 

light at the end of the tunnel," 

Hendricks says. 

Y Combinator, situated in Silicon 

Valley, has nurtured renowned 

global tech companies such as 

Airbnb, Coinbase, Twitch and 

Reddit. 

The companies that have 

managed to get off the ground 

through the start-up accelerator 

are now valued at a staggering 

US$600 billion. 

Getting into Y Combinator 

certainly wasn't easy. 

"I used to read a lot about YC 

and watch countless videos about 

it," he recalls. "I attempted to gain 

entry three or four times before 

finally succeeding." 

According to Y Combinator 

CEO Garry Tan, more than 40,000 

applications are submitted to join 

the programme each year, but only 

a few hundred are accepted. 

Hendricks says the programme 

offers successful applicants 

opportunities they would struggle 

to find on their own. 

"Selected start-ups undergo 

four months of intensive work on 

their ventures in San Francisco, 

where they receive funding and 

gain access to a network of 

influential partners," he says. 

Hendricks co-founded Basepilot 

with Pascal Wieler in 2023. 

"Basepilot is essentially a 

platform designed to automate 

back-office tasks for larger 

enterprises," he says. 

"Some of these large companies 

have a lot of manual repetitive 

processes like operations," 

he says "(Using AI agents), 

Basepilot automates that work." 

Born in Mumbai, India, 

Hendricks relocated to New 

Zealand at the age of six. 

He always harbored a passion 

for technology and engineering, 

eventually attending the 

University of Auckland. 

During his university days, 

Hendricks, alongside a friend, 

launched his first venture - a 

clothing company utilizing 3D 

scanning technology to create 

custom apparel. 

The business folded amid 

the Covid pandemic, prompting 

Hendricks to join a fintech startup 

so he could start working on 

Basepilot. 

"The start-up eco system is 

definitely a lot newer in New 

Zealand but it's also a really cool 

place," Hendricks says. 

Mahesh Muralidhar, CEO of 

Phase One Ventures, agrees. 

"The start-up culture in 

New Zealand is still nascent," 

Muralidhar says. 

Phase One Ventures supports 

start-up founders in New 

Zealand such as Ken Hendricks, 

particularly those within 

universities. 

"I came back home three years 

ago, and I've had the fortune of 

being a founder myself 10 years 

ago and being part of the early 

team in Canva you learn so much," 

says Muralidhar who was one of 

the early leaders of the Australianbased 

online graphic design 

company that's now worth about 

US$40 billion. 

Muralidhar knew Hendricks 

through a mentoring programme. 

"He kept coming back," he says. 

Muralidhar notes a growing 

interest among young Kiwi 

Indians in entrepreneurship. 

"One of the reasons why a 

person becomes a start-up 

founder is because they've got a 

glitch in their system," he says. 

"Indian founders often have 

firsthand experience of adversity, 

instilling in them a desire to effect 

positive change," he says. 

"I think that's one of the reasons 

why the Indian tech community 

across the world is able to thrive 

because they probably take things 

less for granted, which sets them 

up for life." 

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NEW ZEALAND 9 

145th Girmit Remembrance Day: 

Auckland hosts main event 

ARVIND KUMAR 

Auckland will celebrate, 

commemorate and honour 

Fiji’s indentured past at a 

grand function later this month. 

The 145th Girmit Remembrance 

Day, following on from the 

Hamilton event last month, will 

again be held at the spacious 

Malaeola Centre in Mangere, on 

May 25, although the actual Girmit 

day is May 14. 

And Fiji Girmit Foundation New 

Zealand national president Krish 

Naidu expects another huge 

turnout for the free event. 

“As in the past years, this year’s 

event is also expected to attract 

huge number, I’d say close to 1200 

rolling crowd,” Naidu said. 

“It is a popular event on our 

calendar, it is a time our people 

come together to honour and 

celebrate the sacrifices of our 

forefathers. 

“As time goes on, this piece of 

Fiji’s history has become more 

significant, and our diaspora are 

always keen to remember and 

“As time goes on, this 

piece of Fiji’s history 

has become more 

significant, and our 

diaspora are always 

keen to remember and 

reminisce.” Krish Naidu 

reminisce.” 

Naidu said the May 25 event 

would feature children’s oratories, 

role plays by seniors, cultural 

performances, snacks and Fiji 

Indian food. 

“We're running a programme for 

youths that focuses on creative 

writing and oratory - flyer is on 

our FB page. 

“The event includes role plays 

on Girmit history, displaying of 

artefacts, showcasing Girmit 

cultural performances, and giving 

special awards to Girmit seniors 

over 80 years old. 

“We'll also have inter-faith 

prayers for our ancestors, a 

candlelight vigil, and everyone 

gets in for free with food 

provided.” 

Hamilton last month became 

the latest member of the Fiji 

Girmit family in New Zealand 

when the inaugural event was held 

in the city on April 7. 

Attended by more than 300 

people, the Hamilton event proved 

to be a huge success, and Naidu 

was pleased with the growth of 

the event throughout the country. 

• Continued on Page 10 

Organising Chair for Hamilton Girmit 

Dhirendra Naresh addresses guests. 

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•Continued from Page 9 

“Our first event of the year was in 

Hamilton, which was the first time 

we held it there,” Naidu said. 

“We want to give a big thank 

you to organising chair Dhirendra 

Naresh and his team in Hamilton 

for making it happen.” 

Naidu said it was “important 

for us to take pride in our Fiji 

Indian heritage and identity as a 

community”. 

“We also need to make sure 

we're properly counted and we 

all can play our part when filling 

out official documents and forms 

around ethnicity.” 

Naidu, who has been leading the 

organisation for the past five years, 

said even though the Fiji Girmit 

Foundation NZ had made great 

strides in the country, it was still 

without a base. 

“Despite making such an impact 

for 13 years, the organisation is 

still homeless, there is definitely a 

need for a dedicated space where 

our community can come together. 

“A Girmit centre can be a 

space to share historical Girmit 

memorabilia, artefact, paintings, 

and also a place from where the Fiji 

Girmit Foundation can serve the 

community better.” 

The 145th Girmit Remembrance 

Day will start at 5pm at Malaeola 

Centre, 16 Waokauri Place, 

Mangere, Saturday, May 25. 

Why May 14 is significant for the Fiji Indian diaspora 

For the Fiji Indian, May 14 is a 

significant date for two main 

reasons. 

First, the arrival of the first 

indentured labourers from 

India to work on the sugar cane 

plantations in 1879. And second, 

the 1987 military coup which was 

orchestrated to stop the progress 

and remove the Indians from 

positions of power. 

It was on May 14, 1879, that 

the first ship - Leonidas - arrived 

in Fiji with 463 Indian indentured 

labourers to work largely in the 

country's sugar cane plantations 

as bonded workers, which 

came to be referred as Girmit 

(a loose adaptation of the word 

"agreement'). 

The indenture system in Fiji 

lasted from 1879-1920 and in this 

Poignantly, May 

14 evokes painful 

memories for Fiji 

Indians, but it also 

demonstrates their 

resilience to bear 

adversity with 

courage, vision and 

fortitude 

The First Indenture Ship, LEONIDAS. It 

brought 479 indentured labourers to Levuka, 

Fiji on May 14, 1879. That is why the day 

is dedicated internationally as Girmit 

Remembrance Day 

period, 60,495 Indian indentured 

workers were brought in. 

They were required to work for 

12 hours Monday to Friday and 

five hours on Saturdays and their 

daily wage was 10 cents per day 

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employed in 1890 in Fiji. 

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for men and 9 pence per day for 

women. 

The indenture contract was for a 

period of five years, but to qualify 

for free return tickets to India, the 

indentured workers had to stay in 

Fiji for another five years. 

The working and living 

conditions were so horrendous 

that Fiji had recorded the highest 

number of suicides in the world. 

By the end of the indenture 

period, the majority of Indian 

indentured workers stayed back 

and became successful smallscale 

sugarcane farmers, thus 

making the sugar industry the 

backbone of Fiji's economy until 

the 1980s. The descendants of 

the Indian indentured workers are 

evenly spread over the two of the 

main islands of Fiji - Viti Levu and 

Vanua Levu. However, thousands 

migrated to other countries, 

Fijian commemorative postage stamp 

following the military coups, 

ironically, which again took place 

on May 14, in the year 1987. 

“Poignantly, May 14 evokes 

painful memories for Fiji Indians, 

but it also demonstrates their 

resilience to bear adversity with 

courage, vision and fortitude,” says 

Krish Naidu, national president of 

the Fiji Girmit Foundation NZ. 

This year also marks the 105th 

anniversary of the termination of 

the indenture system.


NEW ZEALAND 11 

‘Naag 

Mountain’: 

The Girmit 

story told 

through 

poetry 

journey about human trafficking on sugar 

plantations in Fiji and Australia, which 

brings to life the histories and events, 

the stories and myths of a displaced and 

exploited people, that have been lost in 

time or forgotten or hidden from view. 

It is a journey in which the living, the 

dead and the natural world communicate 

in music, language and dream. 

As Auckland academic and Neaw 

Zealand Poet Laureate Selina Tusitala- 

Marsh (2017-2019) puts it: “Epic in 

nature, rich in detailed imagery … an 

important and timely contribution to 

Pacific literature by one of its emerging 

gifted storytellers.” 

Says Eunice Andrada, author of “Flood 

Damages” and “Take Care”: “Naag 

Mountain” is an exquisite work that 

resounds with the reminder of what can 

be reclaimed when a community moves 

towards their awakening.” 

The “Naag Mountain” story revolves 

around a community in northern 

Queensland, whose ancestors were 

indentured by the Colonial Sugar Refining 

Company, receive messages from their 

friends across the Tasman. 

A mysterious reel of film washes 

ashore, depicting harrowing violence 

on sugarcane plantations under the 

indenture system. 

The actors walk out of the film and into 

the world of the living. 

The community walks into the 

projection. 

“Naag Mountain” was launched by 

Autumn Royal, renowned poet, editor 

and author at a function held at The 

Alderman in Brunswick East, Melbourne. 

“Naag Mountain” is now available online, 

and also in bookshops throughout 

Australia, and will soon be available in 

New Zealand and Fiji. 

Manisha Anjali was born in Suva, Fiji, 

studied in New Zealand and Australia, 

and now lives in Melbourne. 

Poet and writer Manisha Anjali does a reading from her book, 

Naag Mountain, at the launch in Melbourne last month. 

In a tribute to the Girmitiyas and Fiji’s 

indentured past, a New Zealand poet, writer 

and teacher has just released a book – “Naag 

Mountain”. 

Fiji-born Manisha Anjali’s debut collection, 

published by Giramondo Publishing, was launched 

at a function in Melbourne, last month. 

“Naag Mountain” is about an intensely imagined 

recovery of a little-known cultural inheritance, 

in which historical figures, 

folk 

characters and mythical entities 

feature in a procession coloured by the metaphors 

of poetry and the surrealism of dreams. 

The book of poetry is a journey across oceans, 

from the Asian subcontinent to the South Seas, a

A Message from H.E Ratu Inoke Kubuabola 

HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR THE REPUBLIC OF FIJI TO NEW ZEALAND 

145th Girmit Remembrance Day 

Bula Vinaka, Namaste, Asalaam Alaykum, Noa'ia 'e mạuri, Kia Ora! 

On 14th May every year, members of our great Fijian family remember an important era in our 

nation’s history - the arrival of 60,000 indentured labourers from British India precisely 145 years 

ago to the day. It was a noble pursuit for a group of people who had never heard of Fiji before and 

for the many that had never been aboard a ship. 

Their stories are of extreme hardship overcome by inspiring resilience, and of poverty overcome 

by the riches of perseverance and vision. Many chose to settle in their new home and build 

families and a future. 

In New Zealand, many of you have endeavoured to keep the story of your Girmitya forebears 

alive through the practice and teaching of your cultural traditions. The Fiji High Commission has 

always supported these initiatives since its inception. The Girmitya voice in New Zealand has 

grown through the years which is also reflective of the growing number of Fijians making New 

Zealand their home. 

Man Kaur Thakur Bansi Kashmir Par aji Samnudari 

Their stories are of extreme hardship overcome by inspiring resilience, and of poverty overcome 

by the riches of perseverance and vision. Many chose to settle in their new home and build 

families and a future. 

We wish you all the best for the commemoration and pray continued prosperity upon your families. 

God Bless You all! God Bless Fiji! God Bless New Zealand!

Editorial 

Will $1.9bn 

in corrections 

spending curb 

crime? 

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s announcement of a significant $1.9 billion investment 

into law and order measures this week comes at a critical time for New Zealand. As 

the country grapples with rising violent crime, including the recent tragic shooting on 

Ponsonby Road, the government’s decision to bolster the corrections department by adding 

corrections officers and prison beds has once again brought the national conversation about 

the best ways to ensure public safety to the fore. 

In recent years, New Zealand has seen an unsettling shift from its reputation as one of 

the world’s safest countries. Instances like the Ponsonby Road shooting contribute to the 

growing unease among residents and raise questions about the effectiveness of current 

crime prevention strategies. 

Violent crime and youth offending, which took off in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic 

has shown no signs of abating, even several months after a change in government. With 

violent crime reportedly up by 33 per cent since 2018, the government is under immense 

pressure to act decisively. 

The $1.9 billion allocation includes training for 470 new corrections officers and an 

addition of 810 beds to the expansion of Waikeria Prison. This move, intended to manage 

and rehabilitate a growing number of inmates, is necessary but not solely sufficient. While 

increasing the capacity of prisons might help contain crime temporarily, it does not address 

the root causes of criminal behaviour. 

The Prime Minister’s emphasis on a connection between social investment and crime 

prevention is promising. 

Steering individuals away from a life of crime through social programmes is a proactive 

approach that could reduce recidivism. However, the details of these social investments are 

vague, and their success will depend on effective implementation and real engagement with 

at-risk communities. 

While the government focuses on physical capacity and staffing for corrections, there’s a 

parallel need for robust rehabilitation programmes. 

Rehabilitation, especially for remand prisoners who currently make up a substantial 

percentage of the inmate population, is crucial. These programmes should aim not only 

to prevent repeat offences but also to reintegrate individuals into society as productive 

members. 

The reliance on ‘tough on crime’ policies such as the controversial three-strikes law has 

been critiqued for failing to deter serious recidivist offending and persistent youth offenders 

effectively. Instead, such policies often exacerbate the challenges within the prison system 

by increasing the population without necessarily improving safety outcomes. 

New Zealand might consider looking at more nuanced legal reforms and preventive 

measures, such as stronger gun and weapon control laws, enhanced community policing, 

and more accessible mental health services. 

The current approach also raises questions about the sustainability of funding. The cuts 

of $442 million in the corrections budget to free up resources highlight a shift in spending 

rather than new funding. 

This reallocating might strain other areas of the corrections system, potentially impacting 

the quality of service and safety. 

The promise of not needing to resort to double-bunking —an often-criticised practice 

due to its impact on prisoner welfare and rehabilitation— seems optimistic and should be 

monitored closely. 

The steady exodus of police officers to Australia and failed pay negotiations adds 

another layer of complexity to New Zealand’s law and order challenges. This migration not 

only depletes the local workforce but also impacts morale among those who remain. The 

disillusionment in the ranks could hinder the effectiveness of policing, a critical component 

in both preventing and responding to crime. 

This situation underscores the need for the government to revisit its compensation 

strategies to retain its law enforcement personnel, ensuring that the policing arm remains 

robust and capable of upholding safety and order. 

Addressing these internal issues is crucial as an unhappy police force could potentially 

compromise the overall crime prevention efforts, making it even more challenging to manage 

the rising crime graph effectively. 

The Luxon administration has set a clear benchmark for measuring the success of its 

initiatives: the reduction in the number of crime victims. While this metric is straightforward, 

the real test will be in the long-term outcomes of these policies. Can they truly reverse the 

rising crime trend, or will they serve as a temporary fix? 

While the government’s investment in corrections is a step toward addressing the country’s 

sharply rising crime rates, it should not be the sole focus. 

A balanced approach that includes tough, yet fair legislation, robust community 

engagement, preventive measures, and substantial social investments will be essential to 

restore the country’s reputation as a safe haven. 

A multifaceted strategy is necessary to tackle the complex roots of crime effectively. 

QUOTE OF THE WEEK 

“The key is not to prioritise what’s on your 

schedule, but to schedule your priorities.” 

— Stephen Covey 

IN FOCUS : Picture of the week 

A view of the ice-making refrigerator and immersion tub that is placed in the Heat Stroke 

room of the Heat Stroke Unit at RML Hospital in New Delhi on Tuesday. This is the first set 

up in the state to treat heat stroke patients. 

This week in New Zealand’s history 

18 May 1937 

New Zealand nurses detained on way to Spanish Civil War 

The only organised New Zealand contingent to serve in the Spanish Civil War comprised 

New Zealand Spanish Medical Aid Committee (SMAC) nurses René Shadbolt, Isobel 

Dodds and Millicent Sharples. 


Attempted hijacking in Fiji foiled 

Cabin crew foiled the attempted hijacking of an Air New Zealand Boeing 747 at Nadi 

airport, Fiji, by striking the hijacker on the head with a whisky bottle. Flight TE24 from 

Tokyo to Auckland made a refuelling stop in Nadi. Ahmjed Ali, a Fiji Indian who worked for 

Air Terminal Services, walked onto the flight deck and told the captain that he was carrying 

dynamite. 


New Zealand's first sheep released 

During his second visit to New Zealand in 1773, James Cook released a ewe and a ram in 

Queen Charlotte Sound. They survived only a few days after apparently eating poisonous 

plants – an inauspicious start to this country’s long association with sheep. 


Loss of City of Dunedin with all hands 

The paddle steamer City of Dunedin left Wellington at around 5 p.m. on Saturday 20 May, 

bound for Nelson and then Hokitika. It was never heard from again, and no trace was ever 

found of Captain James Parker Boyd or his 24 crew and at least 22 passengers. 


Pasifika labourers arrive in Auckland 

New Zealand received its first known shipload of labourers from the Pacific Islands when 

the clipper schooner Lulu docked in Waitematā Harbour with ‘a quantity of cocoanuts, 

&c.,’ and 27 adult male passengers from Sandwich Island (Efate) in the New Hebrides (now 

Vanuatu). 


Hobson proclaims British sovereignty over New Zealand 

Lieutenant-Governor William Hobson proclaimed British sovereignty over all of New 

Zealand – the North Island on the basis of cession through the Treaty of Waitangi, and 

South and Stewart Islands by right of discovery. 

Indian Weekender : Volume 16 - Issue 7 

Publisher: Kiwi Media Publishing Limited 

Editor: Dev Nadkarni | dev@indianweekender.co.nz 

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is not responsible for advertisers’ claims as appearing in the publication 

Views expressed in the articles are solely of the authors and do not in any way represent 

the views of the team at the Indian Weekender 

Kiwi Media Publishing Limited - 133A, Level 1, Onehunga Mall, Onehunga, Auckland. 

Printed at NZME, Auckland, New Zealand. 

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Send your suggestions and feedback to editor@indianweekender.co.nz

14 

INDIA 



'BJP can do anything during 

elections': Punjab Congress chief 

Days after former 

Punjab Chief Minister 

Charanjit Singh Channi's 

controversial "stuntbaazi" remark 

on the terrorist attack on an 

Indian Air Force convoy in Jammu 

and Kashmir's Poonch, Punjab 

Congress president Amarinder 

Singh Raja Warring made a similar 

statement on Tuesday, saying 

that "BJP can do anything during 

elections." 

"Pulwama attack still remains 

a mystery, about which even the 

then Lieutenant Governor has 

raised questions. There is nothing 

new in this. BJP can do anything 

during elections," Warring, who 

is also the Congress candidate 

from Ludhiana parliamentary 

constituency told reporters here. 

Charanjit Singh Channi had 

alleged that the attack was 

"stuntbaazi" to make the BJP win. 

"This is stuntbaazi. When 

elections come, such stunts are 

done to make the BJP win. These 

are pre-planned attacks; there is 

no truth in them," Channi said while 

speaking to reporters in Punjab. 

Charanjit Singh Channi's 

remarks drew a sharp reaction 

from the BJP. 

Slamming Channi, the Bharatiya 

Janata Party leader Ravi Shankar 

Prasad on Monday said, "These 

people make agreements with 

terrorists." 

"What can we say if they 

are making such statements 

on national security? Are they 

speaking in favour of the terrorists? 

After Uri and Balakote, Rahul 

Gandhi asked for proof. They said 

that we do politics on martyrdom. 

The same is happening now. 

These people make agreements 

with terrorists. They take no action 

against PFI because they want a 

vote bank. Those who have done 

this will be finished but martyrdom 

should not be mocked," he said. 

An Indian Air Force soldier was 

killed and four others injured in the 

terror attack in Poonch district. 

Russia-Ukraine 

war human 

trafficking case: 

CBI arrests two 

people from Kerala 

The CBI on Tuesday arrested 

two people for allegedly 

being involved in the human 

trafficking network that pushed 

Indians into the Russia-Ukraine 

war zone, officials said. 

They were arrested from 

Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala but 

the agency has not disclosed their 

identities yet. 

The officials said that it is likely 

that some more arrests could be 

made. 

The Central Bureau of 

Investigation (CBI) had busted a 

major racket of travel agents that 

was luring Indian youths with 

opportunities in Russia but pushed 

them in the Russia-Ukraine war 

zone after confiscating their 

passports, they said. 

The central probe agency's FIR 

has listed 17 visa consultancy 

companies, their owners and 

agents spread across India, they 

said. 

The agency has booked them 

under Indian Penal Code sections 

related to criminal conspiracy, 

cheating and human trafficking. 

The CBI has alleged that the 

accused persons through their 

agents trafficked Indian nationals 

to Russia on the pretext of getting 

them jobs related to the Russian 

army, security guards and helpers, 

for a better life and education, and 

a huge amount was charged from 

them. 

The agents also duped students 

by providing them admission to 

dubious private universities in 

Russia instead of government 

or public universities by offering 

discounted fees, and visa 

extensions. 

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi 

Adityanath on Tuesday claimed 

that abusing Sanatan culture and 

questioning the existence of Lord Ram and 

Lord Krishna has become a “fashion” for the 

opposition leaders. 

“Supporters of the Samajwadi Party open 

fire on Lord Ram’s devotees and perform 

‘aarti’ for terrorists. They demand 

the withdrawal of cases against the 

perpetrators. They celebrate the death of 

Lord Ram’s devotees and shed crocodile 

tears over the demise of gangsters,” he 

said. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi performs rituals as he offers prayers at the Raja Rajeshwara Swamy Temple at Vemulawada in Karimnagar on 

Wednesday. (ANI Photo) 

Addressing election rallies in the state, 

Adityanath said after the third phase of 

polling for the general elections on Tuesday, 

voting for over half of the Lok Sabha seats 

would be over and the nation is “resonating 

with the slogan ‘Abki Baar 400 Paar'”. 

“The new India stands resolute against 

terrorism, responding with strength,” he 

said. At election meetings in Sitapur and 

Misrikh parliamentary constituencies, 

the BJP leader alleged that questioning 

the existence of God and abusing Sanatan 

culture has become a “fashion’ for the 

opposition. He urged people to exercise 

their franchise to show those who insult 

Lord Ram and Lord Krishna their rightful 

place. 

“How can we accept those who raise 

questions about Lord Ram and Lord 

Indian official 

concludes visit to 

Saudi Arabia, aims 

at strengthening 

partnership 

Muktesh K Pardeshi, 

Secretary (Consular, 

Passport, Visa and 

Overseas Indian Affairs) concluded 

his official visit to Saudi Arabia, 

which aims at strengthening the 

strategic partnership between the 

two nations. 

The visit underscored the depth 

and breadth of the relationship 

between India, Saudi Arabia and 

the Gulf Cooperation Council, 

reaffirming commitment to mutual 

prosperity and collaboration 

across diverse fields. 

In a press release, the Ministry of 

External Affairs stated, "Muktesh K 

Pardeshi also conducted a review 

of preparations for Haj in Jeddah 

and Madinah. He met with Vice Haj 

Minister Abdul Fattah Mashat and 

discussed logistical arrangements 

and infrastructure developments 

aimed at the welfare and comfort 

of pilgrims. This year, a total of 

175,025 Indian pilgrims will visit 

Saudi Arabia under the 2024 Hajj 

quota." 

"During his visit from 4 to May 

7, the Secretary also reviewed the 

well-being of the 2.4 million-strong 

Indian community in Saudi Arabia. 

He appreciated the leadership of 

the Kingdom for their efforts in 

ensuring the welfare of the Indian 

community," the release added. 

In Riyadh, the Secretary held 

substantive discussions with Saud 

bin Mohammed Al Sati, Deputy 

Minister for Political Affairs at the 

Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 

and reviewed the progress under 

the Strategic Partnership Council 

(SPC) in addition to a number 

of topics of bilateral and mutual 

interest. 

Abusing Sanatan culture now a fashion for opposition: Yogi Adityanath 

Krishna? Ultimately, it is the people of the 

country who will respond through their 

votes,” Adityanath said. He said that BJP’s 

double-engine government has taken up 

several initiatives for the development 

of Naimisharanya, a pilgrimage spot in 

Sitapur. 

“Just as Ayodhya is experiencing a 

revitalization, Naimisharanya is also 

undergoing a transformation. 

"Plans are underway to introduce air 

services and electric bus services along 

with the construction of guest houses for 

the visitors,” Adityanath said.


WORLD 15 

AstraZeneca withdraws Covid-19 vaccine 

worldwide, cites commercial reasons 

The pharmaceutical giant 

81 deaths in the UK and hundreds In a statement, the 

AstraZeneca's COVID-19 

of serious injuries. More than pharmaceutical giant said, "As 

vaccine is being withdrawn 

50 alleged victims and grieving multiple, variant Covid-19 vaccines 

worldwide after the company 

relatives have filed a lawsuit have since been developed, there 

acknowledged for the first time in 

court documents that it can cause 

a rare and dangerous side effect, 

according to a report in the British 

Newspaper 'The Telegraph'. 

AstraZeneca has announced that 

the vaccine was being removed 

against AstraZeneca in a High 

Court case. 

AstraZeneca has insisted that 

the decision to withdraw the 

vaccine is not related to the case 

or admission that it can cause 

TTS and termed the timing a pure 

is a surplus of available updated 

vaccines", adding that it has 

led to a decline in demand for 

Vaxzevria, which is no longer being 

manufactured or supplied, The 

Telegraph reported. 

It further announced its decision 

from markets for commercial 

coincidence, according to The to initiate the withdrawal of the 

reasons. It further said that the 

Telegraph report. 

marketing authorisations for 

vaccine was no longer being 

"We are incredibly proud of the Vaxzevria within Europe. The 

made or supplied, having been 

superseded by updated vaccines 

that fight new variants. 

The application to withdraw the 

role Vaxzevria played in ending 

the global pandemic. According 

to independent estimates, over 

6.5 million lives were saved in the 

company said, "We will now work 

with regulators and our partners 

to align on a clear path forward 

to conclude this chapter and 

vaccine was made on March 5 and 

first year of use alone and over significant contribution to the 

came into effect on May 7. The 

three billion doses were supplied Covid-19 pandemic." 

vaccine can be no longer used in 

that have given a go-ahead to the AstraZeneca in the High Court in 

globally. Our efforts have been An AstraZeneca spokesperson 

the European Union following the 

vaccine, known as Vaxzevria. February admitted that the vaccine 

recognised by governments around earlier said, "Our sympathy goes 

company's decision to withdraw 

In recent months, Vaxzevria has "can, in very rare cases, cause 

the world and are widely regarded out to anyone who has lost loved 

its "marketing authorisation." 

come under scrutiny over a very TTS". 

as being a critical component of ones or reported health problems. 

Similar applications will be 

rare side effect, which causes TTS which stands for Thrombosis 

ending the global pandemic," The Patient safety is our highest 

submitted in the UK and other 

blood clots and low blood platelet with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome 

Telegraph quoted AstraZeneca as priority, and regulatory authorities 

nations in the coming months 

counts. In court documents, has been associated with at least 

saying. 

have clear standards." 

EAM Jaishankar joins event marking 

25 years of establishment of India- 

Dominican Republic diplomatic ties 

External Affairs Minister S 

Jaishankar on Tuesday, attended 

the event marking 25 years of the 

establishment of India-Dominican Republic 

diplomatic ties. 

He thanked the authorities of the 

Dominican Republic for their support in 

India's Operation Indravati to evacuate 

its nationals from Haiti to the Dominican 

Republic during the political crisis. 

Earlier in March, Operation Indravati was 

launched to evacuate Indian nationals from 

Haiti to the Dominican Republic. As part of 

the operation, 12 Indians were evacuated. 

On concerns over the safety of Indian 

nationals in Haiti, Randhir Jaiswal at 

that time, said that the embassy in Santo 

Domingo in the Dominican Republic holds 

accreditation for Haiti and was monitoring 

the situation. 

EAM Jaishankar further recalled the 

unique contribution of Ambassador Hans 

Dannenberg Castellanos who established 

the resident mission and served as the Dean 

of the Diplomatic Corps. 

"Pleasure to join the event marking 

25 years of the establishment of India- 

Dominican Republic diplomatic ties. 

Recalled the unique contribution of Amb 

Hans Dannenberg Castellanos who 

established the resident mission and 

served as the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps. 

Thanked authorities for their support for 

#OperationIndravati that evacuated Indian 

citizens from Haiti," EAM Jaishankar posted 

on X. 

Bilateral relations between India and the 

Dominican Republic (DR) have been friendly 

and cordial and continue to widen and 

deepen in all spheres. (ANI) 

The European Union and 

India held their second 

consultations on security 

and defence in New Delhi and 

exchanged views and respective 

assessments on international and 

regional issues in Europe, including 

Russia's war of aggression against 

Ukraine, as well as developments 

in South Asia and the Middle East. 

In consultations held on May 6, 

they also discussed security and 

defence policy developments. The 

EU informed on the implementation 

of the EU's Strategic Compass 

and the Indo-Pacific Strategy, 

including the European Defence 

Industrial Strategy (EDIS), as well 

as new EU operations, such as the 

EUNAVFOR Aspides. 

They also discussed and agreed 

to deepen engagement in existing 

areas of bilateral cooperation, 

such as cyber, maritime security 

Russia will emerge stronger, 

says Vladimir Putin after 

taking oath as President 

Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Russian 

President Vladimir Putin expressed confidence in 

overcoming the current challenging period with dignity 

and emerging stronger. 

While speaking after taking oath for a new term of six years 

as the President of Russia on Tuesday he said, "I am confident 

that we will pass through this difficult pivotal period with dignity 

and emerge even stronger." 

"We will undoubtedly accomplish everything we have planned 

for the long term, all the far-reaching projects aimed at achieving 

our development goals," he added. 

Putin also stated that Russian citizens' confirmation of the 

country's direction is crucial amid challenges. 

"You, the citizens of Russia, have confirmed that the country 

is on the right course. This is of great importance right now, as 

we face serious challenges. I see this as your deep awareness 

of our common historical goals, and unwavering resolve to 

defend our choices, our values, our freedom and Russia's 

national interests," Putin said. 

Putin also expressed heartfelt gratitude to Russian citizens 

nationwide, including those in historically significant regions, 

for their unity with the Motherland. 

"In these solemn and crucial moments of assuming the office 

of the President, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to 

the citizens of Russia across all regions of our country, as well 

as those living in the historical territories of Russia who have 

won their right to stand united with our Motherland, " Russian 

president stated. 

He further added, "I humbly honour our heroes, the participants 

in the special military operation, and all those who are fighting 

for our Fatherland." 

Proceeding further in his speech, Putin promised to use his 

constitutional powers to justify the people's trust in him. He 

also stressed the importance of unity, integrity, and dedication 

to serving and protecting the country. 

Russian President stated, "I will do everything it takes, 

everything I can, to justify your confidence in me, using the 

powers granted to me as the head of state by the Constitution. 

At the same time, I would like to emphasise that the success of 

this endeavour depends above all on our unity, integrity and our 

desire to serve our Fatherland, protect it, and work to the best 

of our abilities. 

India, EU hold 2nd consultations on security and defence 

and crisis management, including 

by making full use of the 

possibilities offered by the EU 

project Enhancing Cooperation in 

and with Asia (ESIWA). 

They also agreed on the need to 

explore new areas of cooperation, 

including space security. 

The consultations were cochaired 

by Joanneke Balfoort, 

Director for Security and Defence 

Policy of the European External 

Action Service, and by Vishwesh 

Negi, Joint Secretary (International 

Cooperation) of India's Ministry of 

Defence.

16 

TIME OUT 

i FreeDailyCrosswords.com 

ACROSS----------- 

1) "Brian's Song" star James 

5) Comes out of one's skin 

10) Self-congratulatory 

14) Radius' comrade-in-arms? 

15) Youngest-ever Oscar 

winner 

16) Folkestone farewell 

17) "B 5!" "C 11!"? 

19) Took_ (snoozed) 

20) Downed 

21) Typing type 

22) Considers carefully 

24) "Emma" author Austen 

25) Hersey's bell town 

26) Place or site 

29) Transverse beam 

32) Itsy-bitsy bits 

33) "In_ tn1st" 

34) Recipe word 

35) Cravings 

36) Emulate "Old Blue Eyes" 

O, O! 

1 2 3 

14 

17 

20 

26 27 28 

32 

35 

38 

41 42 

CROSSWORD 

37) Kid's "seat" on Santa 

38) Alternative to .net 

39) Less extroverted 

40) TV's "Cosmos" creator 

41) Author's explanation 

43) Yuletide songs 

44) Backup sounds 

45) Random sampling 

46) "Monkey Trial" teacher 

48) Seafood choice 

49) Josh 

52) Door section 

53) John Wayne character, 

larger-than-life? 

56) More than suggest 

57) Recording studio alert 

58) Water sport 

59) Some antique autos 

60) Family men 

61) Bud holder 

Richard Auer 

11 12 13 

7th June 

DOWN 

1) Island south of Florida 

2) Dismounted 

3) Archer or Heche 

4) Endless faultfinder 

5) Home of the John Deere 

headquarters 

6) Like beverages at barbecues 

7) A 1 Capp character 

8) Fielder's choice? 

9) Trooper's warning 

10) Wood-surface applications 

11) Tropical fruit dance? 

12) Great Salt Lake state 

13) Adjusts, as a spark plug 

18) Multicolored gems 

23) "_ on Down the Road" 

24) Traffic tangles 

25) Eagerness 

26)_ the land (how things stand) 

27) Alamogordo's county 

28) Kinshasa drum? 

29) Australian bush call 

30) Just right 

31) Wonderlands 

33) Southern breakfast dish 

36) Auto despair site? 

37) Marx or Benz 

39) Pirate's knife 

40) Town of many trials and hunts 

42) Plains homes 

43) Plays with crayons 

45) Lecterns 

46) Tim Duncan, for one 

47) Kind of package 

48) Cold spell 

49) Nautical mile 

50) Not going anywhere 

51) Condemn 

54) "Put_ Happy Face" 

55) Photo_ (media events) 

i FreeDailyCrosswords.com 

ACROSS----------- 

1) "Brian's Song" star James 

5) Comes out of one's skin 

10) Self-congratulatory 

14) Radius' comrade-in-arms? 

15) Youngest-ever Oscar 

winner 

16) Folkestone farewell 

17) "B 5!" "C 11!"? 

19) Took_ (snoozed) 

20) Downed 

21) Typing type 

22) Considers carefully 

24) "Emma" author Austen 

25) Hersey's bell town 

26) Place or site 

29) Transverse beam 

32) Itsy-bitsy bits 

33) "In_ tn1st" 

34) Recipe word 

35) Cravings 

36) Emulate "Old Blue Eyes" 

O, O! 


CROSSWORD ANSWERS 

37) Kid's "seat" on Santa 

38) Alternative to .net 

39) Less extroverted 

40) TV's "Cosmos" creator 

41) Author's explanation 

43) Yuletide songs 

44) Backup sounds 

45) Random sampling 

46) "Monkey Trial" teacher 

48) Seafood choice 

49) Josh 

52) Door section 

53) John Wayne character, 

larger-than-life? 

56) More than suggest 

57) Recording studio alert 

58) Water sport 

59) Some antique autos 

60) Family men 

61) Bud holder 

1M l.1 1 b 

Richard Auer 

ATA 

N A p 

I G H 5 

0 

T 30 1 3e 

D D 

E E 

N 

7th June 

DOWN 

1) Island south of Florida 

2) Dismounted 

3) Archer or Heche 

4) Endless faultfinder 

5) Home of the John Deere 

headquarters 

6) Like beverages at barbecues 

7) A 1 Capp character 

8) Fielder's choice? 

9) Trooper's warning 

10) Wood-surface applications 

11) Tropical fruit dance? 

12) Great Salt Lake state 

13) Adjusts, as a spark plug 

18) Multicolored gems 

23) "_ on Down the Road" 

24) Traffic tangles 

25) Eagerness 

26)_ the land (how things stand) 

27) Alamogordo's county 

28) Kinshasa drum? 

29) Australian bush call 

30) Just right 

31) Wonderlands 

33) Southern breakfast dish 

36) Auto despair site? 

37) Marx or Benz 

39) Pirate's knife 

40) Town of many trials and hunts 

42) Plains homes 

43) Plays with crayons 

45) Lecterns 

46) Tim Duncan, for one 

47) Kind of package 

48) Cold spell 

49) Nautical mile 

50) Not going anywhere 

51) Condemn 

54) "Put_ Happy Face" 

55) Photo_ (media events) 


SUDOKU SOLUTIONS 

46 47 

52 

56 

59 

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A N E 

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Your Weekly Horoscope: 10 May - 17 May, 2024 

ARIES (MAR 21-APR 20) 

It’s set to be a good week for you financially, 

with the Sun highlighting money and 

how you earn, save or spend it. As the 

Sun connects with restrictive Saturn, the 

planet that's currently influencing your 

moods, memories and ideas, the cosmos 

is encouraging you to invest in things that, 

until now, you’ve only dreamed about. What – or who – is 

truly important to you in life that’s worth investing your time 

in as well as money? 

.TAURUS (APR 21-MAY 20) 

It could feel like all your birthdays have 

come at once this week, with a New 

Moon in your sign encouraging you to 

rethink your approach to life as well as 

how you approach other people. Use 

the next six months to revamp your look 

and your outlook. With quirky planet 

Uranus in your sign, you’re more open to change and doing 

something new than you’d ever thought you could be. 

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUN 21) 

You’re always full of bright ideas but often 

you give up on them too quickly and go 

chasing after the next big thing before 

you've finished what you've already 

started. This week you get a helping hand 

from the cosmos to commit to an idea that 

could seriously benefit your career. Saturn 

connects to the Sun now, encouraging you to persevere with 

a creative endeavour that's inspiring and original, that could 

also have long-term rewards in store for you. 

. CANCER (JUN 22-JUL 20) 

Friendships and your ambitions are the 

big themes for you this week, with the Sun 

adding zest to all your collabs, hopes and 

dreams. As the Sun aligns with sensible 

Saturn, you get a cosmic push to help 

make fantasy a reality. Saturn gives you 

the determination to create a structure that 

you can build big dreams upon, with a little faith and luck, 

and a lot of determination. 

LEO (JUL21-AUG 20) 

Your ruler the Sun is currently shining a light 

on your career, giving your work life a boost 

as well as an annual cosmic appraisal. The 

Sun connects with serious Saturn in your 

communication zone now too, so you’re 

being gifted with the power to turn a concept 

into a ‘thing’, whether this involves getting 

a project underway that so far has only been developing in 

your imagination, or by training to give you added skills to 

take the next step up the career ladder. Feeling fidgety? 

VIRGO (AUG 23-SEP 23) 

Life’s bigger picture calls to you now, and 

it could feel like a call you have to answer 

and act upon. The Sun is pushing you to 

encounter situations. experiences and 

people who would usually be out of your 

comfort zone. It’s a chance to think big and 

dream bigger, but also, with sensible Saturn in the picture 

too, to align yourself with others who can steer you in the 

right direction as mentors. 

LIBRA (SEP 24-OCT 23) 

You will be keen to impress those who 

matter on the professional front. Being 

regular in your workouts will prove good 

for your health. You will be much more 

conscious of your financial situation now, 

than previously and budget your expenses. 

Organising a function or an event on the 

home front can keep some busy today. 

SCORPIO (OCT 24-NOV 22) 

Good financial planning can get you in a 

happy state. Professional front brightens 

up for some as new projects come your 

way. Some of you are likely to participate 

in a fun-filled activity on the home front. 

Resuming an exercise routine is indicated 

for some. Getting something new may get 

some youngsters all excited. A trip may get cancelled or 

postponed. Some sacrifice on your part will be required to 

get close to your partner emotionally. 

SAGITTARIUS (NOV 23-DEC 21) 

You are likely to adopt healthy options 

to achieve total fitness. You are likely to 

grasp a situation on the work front quickly 

and turn it to your advantage. There are 

indications that some of you can be asked 

to travel out of the station on short notice. A 

lucrative deal that brings in good returns is 

likely to be seized. Religious-minded will be able to achieve 

total peace of mind. Socialise more. 

CAPRICORN (DEC 22-JAN 21) 

Completing an assigned job will give you 

the edge at work. Discussing investment 

options with a financial expert will help you 

make the correct decision. Homemakers 

may be tempted to buy an appliance or 

gadget. Your fitness regime will benefit. 

Property investments may not get 

immediate results but promise big money at a later date. The 

desire for a change of scene may take you out on an exotic 

vacation. 

AQUARIUS (JAN 22-FEB 19) 

You are likely to benefit immensely by 

making health your priority. Despite rising 

expenses, you will be able to remain 

fairly well off financially. You may have 

to seek alternatives if you are unable to 

accomplish something at work. Efforts 

on the academic front put in now will pay 

rich dividends later. People are likely to 

appreciate your upholding the family traditions. A chance to 

convert an official trip into a leisurely one may come to some. 

PISCES (FEB 20-MAR 20) 

An active lifestyle will help keep minor 

ailments at bay. You will manage to plan 

your expenses well to remain within the 

budget. Homemakers will need to be 

motivated to go in for cleaning and painting 

of the house. A promotion or increment 

is likely for some, especially those in the 

armed forces. Those travelling on a long journey will be able 

to find entertaining company en route. The social front can 

keep some busy entertaining guests.


FEATURE 17 

Healthy cooking every day 

Easy omelette Basic scrambled eggs 

Ingredients: 

• 4 eggs 

• ¼ cup milk 

• Salt and pepper as desired 

• Butter 

Ingredients: 

• 2 eggs 

• 2 tablespoons low-fat milk 

• pinch black pepper 

• 2 tablespoons each grated 

cheese, chopped tomato, 

chopped ham and sliced 

mushroom 

Method 

• Whisk together eggs, milk and a 

little black pepper. 

• Lightly oil a small non-stick 

frying pan and heat until hot, 

but not smoking. 

• Pour egg mixture into pan and 

gently shake to distribute the 

Ingredients 

• 1 tbsp sunflower oil 

• 1 onion , halved and thinly 

sliced 

• 4 skinless chicken breasts , 

cut into chunks 

• 1 cinnamon stick , broken in 

half 

• 1 tsp ground coriander 

• 1 tsp ground cumin 

• zest and juice 1 lemon 

• 400g can chickpea , drained 

• 200ml chicken stock 

• 250g bag spinach 

Method 

• Heat the oil in a large frying pan, 

then fry the onion gently for 5 

mins. 

• Turn up the heat and add the 

chicken, frying for about 3 mins 

until golden. 

• Stir in the spices and lemon 

eggs evenly over pan. 

• Cook over a medium heat until 

the entire base is set. Use a 

spatula to lift omelette at the 

edges to see if the base is set 

and cooked all over. 

• Sprinkle the grated cheese, 

chopped ham, chopped tomato, 

and sliced mushrooms over 

omelette. 

• Use the spatula to fold the 

omelette in half. Then use the 

spatula to cut the omelette in 

half. 

• Carefully slide omelette onto 

two plates. Serves: 2 

Lemon-spiced chicken with chickpeas 

zest, fry for 1 more min, then tip 

in the chickpeas and stock. 

• Put the lid on and simmer for 5 

mins. 

• Season to taste, then tip in 

spinach and re-cover. 

• Leave to wilt for 2 mins, then 

stir through. 

• Squeeze over the lemon juice 

just before serving. 

Method: 

• Beat eggs, milk, salt and pepper 

in medium bowl until blended 

• Heat butter in large non-stick 

skillet over medium heat until 

hot 

• Pour in egg mixture. 

Ingredients 

• 1tbsp tamari 

• 1tsp medium curry powder 

• ¼tsp ground cumin 

• 1 garlic clove, finely grated 

• 1tsp clear honey 

• 2 skinless chicken breast fillets (or use 

turkey breast) 

• 1tbsp crunchy peanut butter (choose 

a sugar-free version with no palm oil, 

if possible) 

• 1tbsp sweet chilli sauce 

• 1tbsp lime juice 

• sunflower oil, for wiping the pan 

• 2 Little Gem lettuce hearts, cut into 

wedges 

• ¼ cucumber, halved and sliced 

• 1 banana shallot, halved and thinly 

sliced 

• coriander, chopped 

• seeds from ½ pomegranate 

Method 

• Pour the tamari into a large dish and 

stir in the curry powder, cumin, garlic 

and honey. Mix well. 

• Slice the chicken breasts in half 

Lighter Takes 

& Easy Tips 

• As eggs begin to set, gently pull 

the eggs across the pan with 

a spatula, forming large soft 

curds 

• Continue cooking – pulling, 

lifting and folding eggs – 

until thickened and no visible 

liquid eggs remain. Do not stir 

constantly. 

• Remove from heat. Serve 

immediately. 

• Serves: 2 

Tamarind prawn curry 

Our tamarind prawn curry will quickly become a family 

favourite. It's quick, healthy and low in fat and calories 

Ingredients 

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil 

• 1 onion, chopped 

• 1 red chilli, finely chopped 

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed 

• 1 tbsp grated ginger 

• 1 tsp turmeric 

• 1 tsp cumin seeds 

• 1 tsp ground coriander 

• 400g can cherry tomatoes 

• 1-2 tbsp tamarind paste (see 

tip, below) 

• 250g raw king prawns 

• 250g cooked basmati rice 

• handful of coriander leaves, to 

serve 

Method 

• Heat the oil in a frying pan over 

Chicken satay salad 

a medium heat and cook the 

onion for 5-8 mins until light 

golden. Stir in the chilli, garlic 

and ginger, and fry for another 

minute before adding the 

spices. 

• Tip in the cherry tomatoes, swirl 

the can out with a splash of 

water and stir that into the pan 

as well. 

• Simmer for 5 mins until the 

tomatoes burst and the sauce 

thickens. 

• Stir in the tamarind and prawns, 

and simmer for 2-3 mins until 

the prawns are cooked. 

• Serve the curry on top of 

the rice, with the coriander 

scattered over. 

horizontally to make 4 fillets in total, 

then add to the marinade and mix well 

to coat. Set aside in the fridge for at 

least 1 hr, or overnight, to allow the 

flavours to penetrate the chicken. 

• Meanwhile, mix the peanut butter with 

the chilli sauce, lime juice, and 1 tbsp 

water to make a spoonable sauce. 

• When ready to cook the chicken, wipe 

a large non-stick frying pan with a little 

oil. 

• Add the chicken and cook, covered 

with a lid, for 5-6 mins on a medium 

heat, turning the fillets over for the last 

min, until cooked but still moist. 

• Set aside, covered, to rest for a few 

mins. 

• While the chicken rests, toss the lettuce 

wedges with the cucumber, shallot, 

coriander and pomegranate, and pile 

onto plates. 

• Spoon over a little sauce. 

• Slice the chicken, pile on top of the 

salad and spoon over the remaining 

sauce. 

• Eat while the chicken is still warm. 

Pomegranate 

chicken 

with almond 

couscous 

Jazz up chicken breasts in 

this fruity, sweetly spiced 

sauce with pomegranate 

seeds, toasted almonds 

and tagine paste 

Ingredients 

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil 

• 200g couscous 

• 1 chicken stock cube 

• 1 large red onion, halved and 

thinly sliced 

• 600g chicken mini fillets 

• 4 tbsp tagine spice paste or 2 

tbsp harissa 

• 190ml bottle pomegranate 

juice (not sweetened; we used 

Pom Wonderful) 

• 100g pack pomegranate seeds 

• 100g pack toasted flaked almond 

small pack mint, chopped 

Method 

• Boil the kettle and heat the oil 

in a large frying pan. Put the 

couscous in a bowl with some 

seasoning and crumble in half 

the stock cube. 

• Add the onion to the pan and fry 

for a few mins to soften. 

• Pour boiling water over the 

couscous to just cover, then 

cover the bowl with a tea towel 

and set aside. 

• Push the onion to one side of 

the pan, add the chicken fillets 

and brown on all sides. Stir in 

the tagine paste or harissa and 

the pomegranate juice, then 

crumble in the rest of the stock 

cube and season well. 

• Simmer, uncovered, for 10 

mins until the sauce has 

thickened and the chicken is 

cooked through. Stir through 

the pomegranate seeds, saving 

a few to scatter over before 

serving. 

• After 5 mins, fluff up the 

couscous with a fork and stir 

through the almonds and 

mint. Serve the chicken on 

the couscous with the sauce 

spooned over.

18 

ENTERTAINMENT 

Allu Arjun opened up at an 

event how filmmakers 

would approach him with 

subpar projects after his debut 

in 2003 with Gangotri due to his 

looks. 

Allu Arjun might be Allu 

Ramalingaiah’s grandson and 

Chiranjeevi’s nephew, but he didn’t 

have it easy in the early days of 

his career. 

Allu, who debuted in 2003 with 

the K Raghavendra Rao-directorial 

Gangotri, revealed how he initially 

didn’t get great scripts due to how 

he looked. 

‘Gangotri was a hit but I didn’t 

make a mark’ 

Getting candid at an event in 

Hyderabad celebrating 20 years 

since Sukumar’s Arya released, 

Allu revealed how his career didn’t 

amount to much till he agreed to 

star in the 2004 romantic drama. 

He said, “Naa Gangotri cinema 

hit aindi. Nen ekkado chudadaniki 

pedda goppa ga lenu anesi naku 

pedda great films raledu (Gangotri 

was a hit but I didn’t look great, so 

good films didn’t come my way) 

The film was a blockbuster but 

it’s my failure as an artiste that 

I couldn’t make a mark. I went 

from 0 to -100, I was a nobody.” 

The actor also detailed that even 

after his debut, he was roaming 

the RTC crossroads in Hyderabad, 

watching new releases and 

hearing scripts that failed to draw 

him in. 

But all that changed when he 

attended the screening of Nithiinstarrer 

Dil a month later with his 

friend and actor Tarun. 

“That’s where Sukumar 

approached me for Arya, he was a 

debut director but I liked what he 

had written. 

Chiranjeevi also heard the 

script, I also received a shield 

from him when the film completed 

125 days in theatres against all 

odds. 

When I watched Ravi Teja’s 

Actor Sonakshi Sinha opens 

up about the bold samesex 

foreplay scene in her 

latest web show, Heeramandi, 

which is created by Sanjay Leela 

Bhansali. 

Sonakshi Sinha is getting 

rave reviews for her act as 

Fareedan in Sanjay Leela 

Bhansali’s Heeramandi, 

particularly for going bold with 

a same-sex foreplay scene. 

Now, in an interview, the actor 

has revealed that Fareedan's 

sexuality was not explored further 

intentionally. 

In an interview with News18, 

Sonakshi also explained why 

Bhansali chose to not go big on 

exploring Fareedan's sexuality in 

detail. For the unversed, the scene 

in question showed Fareedan 

engaging in a foreplay with one of 

her maids, which implied sexual 

interaction between them. The 

director didn’t explore it further. 

Revealing the reason behind it, 

Sonakshi said, “She was sold off 

when she was a nine-year-old girl. 

Maybe that’s why she absolutely 

hates men. It could 

be that. They’ve left it very open. 

They didn’t explore it any further 

than that one scene where she 

meets Choudhary saab (a nawab) 

and is with her maid”. 

“It’s just a very vast world 

and sir has tapped into different 

aspects of it in small ways,” 


Allu Arjun says he didn’t get 

films after debut because 

he didn’t ‘look great’ 

‘My key focus area is rooting for 

sustainability’: Bhumi Pednekar 

Actor Bhumi Pednekar is 

all set to take a big step 

towards driving ‘actionable 

change’ in the world. She has 

joined global leaders in Geneva 

for the World Economic Forum, 

where she will be inducted as a 

Young Global Leader of the world. 

The actor says she is taking on the 

new role with a lot of responsibility 

to work towards creating a 

sustainable future. 

The actor, who has been 

an advocate for having more 

conversations around climate 

change, is one of the five Indians 

who have been chosen by the 

World Economic Forum to be a 

part of its Young Global Leaders 

(YGL) Community: The Class of 

2024. The actor is elated to take 

on the new role, and said, “I’m 

proud to be a Young Global Leader 

from India at the World Economic 

Forum! This motivates me to 

dedicate every minute of my life 

for social good. This recognition 

is even more special because it 

comes on the eve of my 10th year 

in cinema next year!” 

“I’m constantly inspired by 

interacting with change-makers 

from various parts of the world 

who are walking the talk to make 

a difference. This incredibly 

prestigious platform gives me 

the opportunity to connect to 

such brilliant minds and combine 

forces to leave behind a better 

world for our future generations,” 

she added. 

Talking about the responsibility 

that comes with it, she shared, 

“As an actor, entrepreneur and 

a climate warrior, I want to work 

towards actionable change. 

My key focus area is rooting 

for sustainability and I wish to 

mobilise as many people as 

possible in a bid to keep our planet 

healthy. I am looking forward 

to opportunities to collaborate, 

exchange ideas and drive 

meaningful impact on a global 

scale.” 

In April, the international 

organisation released its list of 

nearly 90 changemakers under 

40 who are shaping the future 

and accelerating positive change 

through their work across the 

fields of public health, economic 

development, technology and 

sustainability. 

“If there’s one person 

in my life who has 

changed it forever 

and had the maximum 

impact, from Arya to 

Pushpa, it’s Sukumar. 

Irrespective of me 

delivering hits or flops, 

he is the one who 

helped me get on track 

to becoming an actor.” 

Idiot, I wanted to star in a cool film 

like that. 

Arya is my Idiot. I knew I could 

dance well and I just wanted the 

opportunity to prove it. I got that 

with the song, Thakadhimithom,” 

he revealed. 

Allu kept it brief when it came 

to praising Sukumar, stating that 

he will say just enough for people 

to grasp how much the director 

means to him. 

He said, “If there’s one person in 

my life who has changed it forever 

and had the maximum impact, 

from Arya to Pushpa, it’s Sukumar. 

Irrespective of me delivering hits 

or flops, he is the one who helped 

me get on track to becoming an 

actor.” 

Arya was a massive hit when 

it was released and changed the 

course of career for both the actor 

and the director. 

Music composer Devi Sri 

Prasad was the only one from 

the film’s team who had some 

experience, already famous for 

films like Khadgam, Manmadhudu 

and Varsham. 

Sukumar is now directing Allu 

in Pushpa: The Rule, the sequel of 

the 2022 film Pushpa: The Rise. 

The film also stars Rashmika 

Mandanna and Fahadh Faasil in 

the lead roles. 

she added. The 36-year-old is 

overwhelmed with the positive 

feedback coming her way for the 

series, which marked Bhansali’s 

debut in the OTT world. However, 

there is one comment which has 

found a special place in her heart, 

and it was getting appreciated by 

actor Rekha. 

“It was magical. I saw a 

screening like that after years. 

That was one of the biggest 

premieres I’ve been to in my entire 

career. I met so many people that 

day. But Rekha ma’am went gaga 

over Heeramandi and was so 

supportive and encouraging,” she 

said. The actor further reveals that 

the veteran star was ‘thrilled’ with 

the show. 

“She told me such beautiful 

things that I was just awestruck. 

I couldn’t believe my ears 

that Rekha ji was praising me. 

I’ll always remember that one 

conversation with her. 

She always tells my mum that 

she’s my ‘other mumma’. There’s 


Fahadh Faasil is 

impressed by Ranbir 

Kapoor's performances. 

In a new interview with Film 

Companion, Fahadh called Ranbir 

the ‘best actor in the country.’ 

Fahadh also shared his thoughts 

on being labelled as a pan-India 

star and said that he is just an 

actor who is interested in doing 

films that he likes. 

During the interview when 

Fahadh was asked about the 

impact of his films and his image 

as an actor, the actor said, “I don't 

have to hide anything, I have to 

be honest. I am doing my stuff 

here. No disrespect to anything. 

I don't think people expect magic 

from me, from Pushpa. It's a 

pure collaboration, love for Suku 

[Sukumar] Sir. 

My stuff is here. Very clearly. It 

doesn't get to me because I and 

a lot of my friends here think and 

believe that Vicky Kaushal is the 

find of the decade. Rajkummar 

Rao is one of the finest actors 

India has ever produced. Ranbir 

[Kapoor], I mean, the best actor in 

the country. So, I don't know what 

they see in me.” 

Fahadh also shared his thoughts 

on him being considered as a 

pan-India star. He added, “No, I 

am just an actor. I have nothing 

to do with pan-India. I just do my 

stuff. And I do what I believe and 

the idea is never films do business. 

That's… that's secondary. But 

the films I do here, I don't I 

can ever do it anywhere else.” 

Sonakshi addresses same-sex foreplay scene 

in Heeramandi: ‘She absolutely hates men’ 

“It was magical. I saw a screening 

like that after years. That was one 

of the biggest premieres I’ve been 

to in my entire career. I met so many 

people that day. But Rekha ma’am 

went gaga over Heeramandi and was 

so supportive and encouraging.” 

Fahadh Faasil 

calls Ranbir 

the ‘best actor 

in the country' 

a lot of love between us. We had 

a beautiful moment together,” she 

added. 

Through Heeramandi, Sanjay 

has told stories of love and 

betrayal in the lives of courtesans 

in pre-independence India. The 

series explores the cultural 

reality of Heeramandi, a district 

in Lahore, through the stories of 

courtesans and their patrons set 

against the tumultuous backdrop 

of the Indian freedom struggle of 

the 1940s.

Immigration 

Meets Law 

Looking for more than just 

conventional immigration 

advice? Get answers to all your 

tough questions. 

CALL US NOW 

+6421144664 | advice@msimmigration.co.nz | www.msimmigration.co.nz 

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The Indian Weekender | 10 May 2024

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