The Indian Weekender | 14 June 2024

Friday, 14 June 2024 

Volume 16 / Issue 12 

Read • Watch • Engage 

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'SINGH 

Japman Singh Sidhu 

IS KING' 

Grandson of ex-Indian 

armyman among two 

Sikhs enlisted in NZ Army 

URJITA BHARDWAJ 

Donning a dark green pagdi, a military 

uniform, and holding a rifle, Navdeep 

Singh stands tall at attention with a 

determined gaze. He has just been inducted 

into the New Zealand Army. 

At just 26, Navdeep has marked a proud 

moment for his family back in India and 

fulfilled a lifelong aspiration. 

“You need to be a resident to enroll in the 

New Zealand Army. Ever since I came here in 

2015, I started working towards my dream,” 

says Navdeep. 

With a background in business 

management from Christchurch, Navdeep is 

currently serving as a logistics specialist in 

the army. 

Hailing from Jammu & Kashmir, India, 

he grew up in an army cantonment area, 

studying in army schools, which influenced 

him to join the army here. 

“My father was in defence, which also 

added to my fascination with the army. I 

admire their discipline,” Navdeep adds. 

His family back home is “immensely 

proud” of their son’s achievement. 

Pg7

Protect yourself 

and your family 

from measles 

Measles is a highly contagious disease. It can easily spread among people and 

can cause serious illness and sometimes death. 

The best protection against measles is the Measles, Mumps and Rubella 

(MMR) vaccination. It’s free for everyone under 18 years old in New Zealand. 

The Ministry for Ethnic Communities worked with Health New Zealand | 

Te Whatu Ora to produce animated videos on measles and the MMR vaccination. 

The videos explain what measles is, about the vaccination, and where you can 

access reliable health information. 

Health information 

available in Hindi, Punjabi 

and other languages 

Language support 

when accessing 

government services 

Watch the translated videos in 

20 different languages 

ethniccommunities.govt.nz/resources/videos/ 

health-videos/ 

or scan the QR code 

Healthline and most government agencies provide 

free interpreting services if you need language 

support. You can call Healthline on 0800 611 116. 

Find out how to request an interpreter 

ethniccommunities.govt.nz/language-information/ 

or scan the QR code

Read online www.iwk.co.nz Friday, 14 June 2024 

NEW ZEALAND 3 

RAVI BAJPAI 

It has spawned many coffee 

table conversations but the 

question whether New Zealand 

is becoming a backdoor to those 

wanting to settle down in Australia 

has sparked a heated debate on 

blogging platform Reddit. 

“From anecdotal evidence I’ve 

seen this to be true, with half a 

dozen people I know who’ve come 

to NZ moving to Australia as soon 

as they get citizenship,” Reddit 

user ‘deidrechawner’ wrote a few 

days back. 

“I’ve also talked to people who 

said they applied to Australia and 

couldn’t get in but were allowed 

to migrate to NZ. As soon as they 

were granted a NZ passport they 

left for Australia.” 

It is no secret many naturalborn 

New Zealanders, not just 

migrants, are weighing the allure 

of a stronger economy–and 

ostensibly cheaper living costs– 

across the ditch. 

In fact, Australia has lately 

made no bones of its intention 

to lure police officers, doctors 

and other medical professionals 

from New Zealand to its shores–a 

fact even many exasperated Kiwi 

politicians have acknowledged. 

At the time of writing this article, 

more than 300 Reddit users 

had weighed in on the post. The 

response has been mixed but 

sharp. 

One user wrote, “This might 

sound controversial but I get it. I 

think NZ used to attract a lot of 

Is NZ backdoor entry into Australia? 

people with a more relax lifestyle, 

beaches, tramping, good work 

life balance, etc, and that used to 

work for a lot of people. But now 

when housing and food costs are 

through the roof, that’s no longer 

enough and there needs to be 

more economic solutions to keep 

people around.” 

Another user, ‘hangrygodzila’, 

accepted the backdoor premise as 

a fact. “Everyone knows it. NZ is a 

stepping stone,” he wrote. 

“As soon as they get NZ 

“As soon as they get 

NZ citizenship, first 

flight off to Sydney 

mate. NZ don’t have 

a choice, gotta take 

anyone we can. 

Need to pump up 

the economy aka 

housing. The best 

and brightest go 

straight to oz, no 

need to come here. 

NZ takes bottom of 

barrel.” Reddit user 

citizenship, first flight off to 

Sydney mate. NZ don’t have 

a choice, gotta take anyone 

we can. Need to pump up the 

economy aka housing. The best 

and brightest go straight to oz, 

no need to come here. NZ takes 

bottom of barrel.” 

According to data from Stats NZ 

released last week, New Zealand 

recorded a net migration loss 

of 52,500 citizens in the year to 

March–a new record–with many 

saying better wages and more 

opportunities motivated them to 

move to Australia 

"Based on the latest estimates 

available, just over half of these 

migrant departures went to 

Australia," Stats NZ population 

indicators manager Tehseen Islam 

said. 

Responding to the Reddit 

thread, another user–‘kiwinow’- 

took a more philosophical 

approach. 

“Hear me out without getting 

triggered, I find the statement 

that people who become citizens 

by birth naturally deserve 

more than people who become 

citizens by grants is illogical and 

unreasonable. 

“I will tell you why, people who 

were born here DID NOT choose 

to be born in NZ, it wasn't their 

choice or life dream to be born in 

NZ. 

“They were here only because 

of the choices and the dreams 

their parents and grandparents 

made, who by the way are 

immigrants. Sure you may hear 

some immigrants say that NZ is 

not their first choice. It's likely 

because most people don't know 

how awesome the country is until 

they come here and fall in love 

with it.” 

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4 

NEW ZEALAND 


Police minister won't 

say when his efforts 

will show results 

RAVI BAJPAI 

“Well, I would have loved to fix [it] six months 

ago. The reality is, we are not going to turn it 

About six months into his role as police around overnight. It has taken six years to bake 

minister, Mark Mitchell is continuing to it in,” he told The Indian Weekender. 

fend off public complaints of poor law “We have had a government that has 

and order by blaming his predecessors–we prioritised reducing prison population by 30 

asked him when he expects his work to show per cent…and alternative actions where…there 

results. 

were no consequences.” 

Mitchell has been on the move the last 

Mitchell didn’t offer any commitments on the 

few weeks attending public meetings where timeline but pointed out he has been trying to 

small business owners have often asked him make sure the police are out on the streets and 

why law and order hasn’t improved under his are more visible. 

watch. 

“[We are ensuring] they get back to basics… 

The police minister’s response has been getting them out of some of the work they 

consistent–the crime peak fuelled by the currently do so that they can work on their core 

previous Labour government wouldn’t abate role…so that when members of the public who 

overnight. 

put up their hand when they genuinely need it, 

“We’re not going to fix it in a few weeks. they get the help they want.” 

We are putting in place stronger legislative Mitchell said “there’s a lot of work to do” but 

measures that we hope will eventually reduce he has started to see some greenshoots. “We 

crime,” he said on June 11, 2024, while meeting are starting to see the [crime] stats heading 

retail shop owners in the southern Auckland back down,” he pointed out. 

suburb of Manurewa. 

“In Auckland CBD, you know, crime is starting 

That’s been Mitchell’s go-to response so far, to come down. Stats around violent crime are 

and one wonders how long could he potentially starting to trend down.” 

continue to pin the blame on a government Government data released earlier this week 

that has not been in charge for nearly half a shows ram raids were down more than 80 per 

year. We asked him if he had a timeline in mind cent for the month of April compared to last 

for when his work will begin to show results. year. 

Police identified 12 ram raids in April 2024, 

compared to 64 in April 2023. Provisional 

police data from April 2017 to April 2024 

shows a downwards trend since the peak in 

August 2022, when there were 86. 

Police Minister Mark Mitchell/Photo: Ravi Bajpai 

Read online www.iwk.co.nz 

Record 

number 

of people 

leaving NZ 

RNZ 

Migrant arrivals rose 25 

percent over the past 

year, though the number 

of departures was up by nearly a 

third. 

Stats NZ provisional results 

estimate there were 130,600 

migrant departures in the year to 

April, the highest on record over 

12 months. 

The overall net gain of 98,500 

migrants in the year to April is 

made up of 154,900 non-citizens, 

offsetting a net loss of 56,500 

New Zealand citizens. 

A net 56,000 New Zealand 

citizens left in the year to April, 

an annual record for the country 

exceeding the previous record of 

44,400 in the February 2012 year. 

The average annual net 

migration loss of New Zealand 

citizens was 26,800 in the April 

years 2002-2013, and 6500 in the 

April years 2014-2019. 

Indian citizens made up the 

largest group of migrants arrivals, 

followed by citizens of Philippines 

and China. 

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NEW ZEALAND 5 

Kites, dance, feasting: Places 

to enjoy Matariki in Auckland 

RAVI BAJPAI 

Get ready, Auckland! The 

much-anticipated Matariki 

Festival 2024 is just around 

the corner, from June 15 to June 

30. The Auckland Council has got 

an incredible line-up of more than 

90 family-friendly events spread 

across 16 days, many of which are 

either free or super affordable. 

This year’s theme is all about 

te whenua (land) and te taiao 

(environment), reminding us of our 

deep connections to nature and 

our role as guardians. 

Mayor Wayne Brown is 

encouraging everyone to dive 

into the Matariki spirit this year. 

“Matariki events let us reflect on 

the past year and welcome in the 

Māori New Year,” says Brown. 

"Last year’s dawn ceremony 

was amazing, and I really want 

everyone to come out and 

welcome the new year with Ngāti 

Tamaoho, who’ll be leading the 

festival for the next three years.” 

Event Highlights 

Matariki i te Maunga & Matariki 

i te Marae (June 15) 

Kick off the festival with a predawn 

ceremony on Pukekohekohe, 

led by Ngāti Tamaoho. Experience 

moving karakia. The celebration 

continues at Pukekohe Marae with 

a pōwhiri, breakfast, kapa haka, 

and a special performance from 

the New Zealand Dance Company. 

The gala starts at 5.30am. 

Whakarewa Manu Tukutuku 

Kite Day (June 22) 

Head to Pukekohe Marae for 

a day of kite flying. Make your 

own traditional kite or bring one 

from home, and enjoy a fun day 

with the whole whānau. There’ll 

be plenty of food, music, and a 

special performance from Aro. 

The event runs 11am to 3pm. 

Matariki i te Aorangi 

(June 22 and June 24) 

Dive into Māori astronomy and 

get a closer look at the Matariki 

star cluster with Skylab. Join the 

celebrations at Pukekiwiriki Pā, 

Red Hill, for night sky viewings 

and learn about the stars 

accompanied by traditional Māori 

music. Two sessions available: 

June 22, 7pm-9pm and June 24, 

5am-7am. 

Matariki Festival Day (June 28) 

Spend the day at Auckland 

Botanic Gardens celebrating 

Matariki. Enjoy traditional 

music, weaving, carving, and a 

Māori market. Don’t miss the 

whakapapa symposium to explore 

your own genealogy. It’s a full day 

of fun activities for everyone. 

The Auckland Council is hosting 

this year’s event in collaboration 

with Ngāti Tamaoho Trust, whose 

CEO Matekino Marshall (Waikato) 

says he is looking forward 

to sharing their iwi’s unique 

traditions this Matariki season. 

“The events are 

designed to provide 

an opportunity for 

all Aucklanders to 

experience the joys 

of this time of year, 

and to gain a better 

understanding of 

our taiao and our 

connections to it, both 

physical and spiritual.” 

"Ngāti Tamaoho, in partnership 

with Te Kaunihera o Tāmaki 

Makaurau, look forward to hosting 

this year’s Matariki Festival with 

a range of events across the city,” 

he says. 

“The events are designed to 

provide an opportunity for all 

Aucklanders to experience the 

joys of this time of year, and to 

gain a better understanding of our 

taiao and our connections to it, 

both physical and spiritual.” 

To find an event near you and 

plan your Matariki Festival 

experience, visit https:// 

matarikifestival.org.nz. 

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NEW ZEALAND 


Sonu Nigam's performance 

lights up Auckland 


Auckland was treated to an 

unforgettable night of musical 

brilliance as Bollywood singing 

sensation Sonu Nigam graced the stage 

at Trusts Arena on the 7th of June, 2024. 

The concert, highly anticipated by fans 

and music lovers alike, delivered a stellar 

performance that left the audience in awe. 

The evening began with an electric 

atmosphere, as thousands of fans filled the 

arena, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the 

acclaimed singer. The stage was set with 

dazzling lights and a state-of-the-art sound 

system, ensuring an immersive experience 

for everyone present. 

As the lights dimmed and the first notes 

of the opening song echoed through the 

arena, Sonu Nigam made a grand entrance. 

Dressed in an elegant ensemble, he exuded 

charisma and charm, instantly captivating 

the audience. From the very first song, it 

was clear that the night was going to be a 

memorable one. 

Sonu Nigam's setlist was a perfect blend 

of his timeless classics and recent hits, 

showcasing his versatility as an artist. He 

performed iconic songs such as "Kal Ho 

Naa Ho," "Abhi Mujh Mein Kahin," and "Suraj 

Hua Maddham," each rendition met with 

thunderous applause and cheers from the 

crowd. 

The singer's vocal prowess was on full 

display, effortlessly hitting high notes and 

conveying deep emotions through his music. 

The concert also featured a spectacular 

visual display, with vibrant graphics and 

dynamic lighting enhancing the overall 

experience. The production quality was 

top-notch, ensuring that every moment was 

visually captivating. 

For those who were fortunate enough to 

witness this extraordinary event, it was a 

night of pure magic. 

Sonu Nigam once again proved why he 

is one of Bollywood's most cherished and 

respected artists, delivering a concert that 

was truly a feast for the senses. 

Don't fall for this 

scam, say NZ police 

14 th JUNE, 2024 

IWK BUREAU 

The New Zealand Police are warning the public 

about a resurgence of a phone scam where 

fraudsters impersonate police officers in cold 

calls. Recent reports have raised concerns, especially 

as at least two elderly individuals in Auckland have 

been duped out of significant sums of money. 

Detective Senior Sergeant Ryan Bunting from 

Waitematā CIB revealed that scammers primarily 

target landlines, providing a false identity with a fake 

ID or badge number to appear legitimate. 

They typically claim to be investigating counterfeit 

banknotes or cloned credit cards, persuading victims 

to withdraw money from their bank for collection 

or to divulge financial and banking details for their 

"investigation." "This is a scam call," emphasised 

Detective Senior Sergeant Bunting, urging caution. 

Police are actively investigating two recent reports in 

south Auckland and the North Shore where victims fell 

prey to these tactics. 

"In both cases, the victims withdrew cash from their 

bank and handed it over to an individual who arrived 

at their door, masquerading under the scam's guise," 

added Detective Senior Sergeant Bunting, highlighting 

the emotional toll on victims who trustingly comply 

with the scammers' requests. 

Authorities emphasise that scammers operate 

without morals and exploit any opportunity to deceive 

individuals. While legitimate police may contact 

people as part of their duties, they stress that police 

will never request bank details, PIN numbers, or 

passwords over the phone, nor offer prize money or 

ask individuals to withdraw money from their bank. 

"If you receive a call of this nature, hang up," 

advised Detective Senior Sergeant Bunting, urging 

victims to report such incidents to the police. He 

also encouraged the community, especially families 

with elderly members, to remain vigilant and spread 

awareness of these scams. 

To verify the legitimacy of a call, individuals should 

hang up and contact 105, requesting the officer's ID 

and asking for a return call. Authorities remind the 

public that if a phone call seems too good to be true, 

it likely is.


NEW ZEALAND 7 

VEDA festival promises 

to unlock your mind 

IWK BUREAU 

The VEDA Festival is back, 

promising an enlightening 

journey into the depths of 

the human mind. Set against the 

scenic backdrop of Mangere Bridge, 

this year's festival in Auckland 

promises to offer an afternoon 

filled with insightful presentations, 

engaging workshops, and a vibrant 

exchange of ideas. 

The event is being organised by 

Chinmaya Mission New Zealand at 

Chinmaya Wellbeing and Events 

Centre at 63 McKinsey Road, 

Mangere Bridge. It will be held on 

Saturday, June 22, from 2pm to 

6pm. 

Delve into the nature of your 

mind 

The centerpiece of the event, a 

panel discussion titled "Everything 

You Want to Know About Your 

Mind," features a distinguished 

lineup of experts who will guide 

attendees through various 

perspectives on understanding the 

mind: 

• Swami Aparokshananda, 

Vedanta Teacher: Embark on 

a philosophical journey with 

Swami Aparokshananda to 

comprehend the essence of the 

mind. 

• Dr. Tony Fernando, Psychiatrist 

and Former Buddhist Monk: Dr. 

Fernando combines his medical 

knowledge and spiritual wisdom 

to provide unique insights on 

cultivating happiness. 

• Renuka Wali, Clinical 

Psychologist: Explore the 

impact of the modern world on 

mental well-being and acquire 

practical tools to navigate life's 

challenges with Renuka Wali. 

This multifaceted discussion 

promises to spark curiosity and 

ignite a deeper understanding of 

the human mind. 

Deepen your exploration with 

interactive workshops 

Following the panel discussion, 

attendees can choose from 

several concurrent workshop 

sessions, designed to deepen their 

exploration of the mind. 

3:15pm workshops 

Journey Within: Learn 

introspection and meditation with 

Swami Aparokshananda: Cultivate 

self-awareness and inner peace 

through practical techniques 

guided by Swami Aparokshananda. 

Mind hacks from the Buddha 

with Dr. Tony Fernando: Discover 

how ancient Buddhist wisdom 

can be applied as practical tools 

for managing your mind in the 

modern world, presented by Dr. 

Tony Fernando. 

4:15pm workshops 

How to befriend your mind with 

Brahmachari Ishaan Chaitanya: 

Develop inner harmony and 

self-compassion with practical 

approaches led by Vedanta teacher 

Brahmachari Ishaan Chaitanya. 

What can we learn from our past 

lives with Sara Janvekar: 

Explore the potential of past 

life regression as a tool for 

self-discovery with Past Life 

Regression Therapist and Healer, 

Sara Janvekar. 

A legacy of exploring eastern 

wisdom 

The VEDA Festival has a rich 

tradition of delving into eastern 

spiritual traditions. 

Previous years have seen 

explorations of profound 

concepts such as karma, dharma, 

reincarnation, and nirvana. This 

year, the focus turns inward to the 

mind, aiming to understand its 

essence and functions. 

Attend the VEDA Festival 2024 

for an afternoon of self-discovery 

and enlightenment. 

Whether you're a seasoned 

spiritual seeker or a curious 

newcomer, the festival 

promises valuable insights and 

transformative experiences. 

'He has a zeal to help 

the community' 

• Continued from Page 1 

Navdeep is not the only one who 

caught the attention of every Kiwi- 

Indian on graduation day from the 

NZ Army. 

The relatively young Japman 

Singh Sidhu was also enlisted 

in the New Zealand Army as a 

soldier on the same day. 

The news of their enlistment 

has been met with great pride 

and celebration within the Kiwi- 

Indian community. Messages 

of support and admiration have 

flooded social media platforms, 

highlighting the achievements 

of these two young men. As they 

begin their military careers. 

WhatsApp groups and Kiwi- 

Indian Facebook pages were 

abuzz with messages like 

“Another Singh is King,” praising 

the two Singhs for upholding 

the true values of Sikhism and 

demonstrating unwavering loyalty 

to the country. Supreme Sikh 

Society of New Zealand also 

congratulated the young men for 

their achievements. 

“Japman actively participates 

in community work like cleaning, 

cooking, and helping at the 

Gurudwara. He has a zeal to 

help the community,” says 

Japman’s father, Jagjit Singh who 

is Licensed Immigration Adviser. 

Japman’s grandfather served in 

the Indian Army, which has also 

influenced his career choice. 

Just 18 years old, Japman plans 

to pursue advanced studies to 

achieve higher ranks within the 

New Zealand Army. The journey 

of success for both Singhs has 

come with a lot of focus, physical 

training, rounds of examinations, 

and unwavering commitment. 

For Navdeep, who had a 

restaurant business along with his 

cousin, he had to take out time at 

nights for his physical training. 

“Last year I cleared the 

Navdeep Singh 

aptitude exam, which included 

mathematics, English, and science 

tests. The second part of the 

ladder was medical, and the third 

was a physical test.” 

For Japman, his father Jagjit 

helped him in physical training 

and aptitude tests. 

“He was a sporty kid from 

the beginning. Japman has 

participated in New Zealand Sikh 

games and loves to play soccer,” 

says Jagjit Singh. 

For Japman, his father hopes 

he will pursue higher education 

and advance in the ranks within 

the Army, as he has always been 

"bright in academics." 

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8 

NEW ZEALAND 


NZ TDP hosts blood donation 

drive to honour NT Ramarao 

IWK BUREAU 

Auckland witnessed a 

momentous occasion as 

the New Zealand Telugu 

Desam Party (TDP) Committee 

members came together to 

celebrate the 101st birthday of 

the legendary Dr. Nandamuri 

Taraka Rama Rao, popularly 

known as NTR on 1 June, 2024. 

The event, held with great fervour 

and enthusiasm, honoured the 

multifaceted legacy of NTR, who 

was not only the founder of the 

Telugu Desam Party but also 

an acclaimed actor, producer, 

director, screenplay writer, 

philanthropist, and former Chief 

Minister of the combined state of 

Andhra Pradesh. 

NZ TDP also celebrated the 

unprecedented victory of the 

Telugu Desam Party in the 

recent Andhra Pradesh assembly 

elections, which saw the party 

returning to power. This dual 

celebration brought a sense of 

pride and jubilation among the 

TDP supporters and members. 

The event commenced with a 

series of speeches by prominent 

TDP leaders and committee 

members, who paid tribute to 

NTR's monumental contributions 

to Indian cinema and politics. 

They highlighted his visionary 

leadership, philanthropic efforts, 

and the indelible mark he left 

on the hearts of millions. His 

dedication to the welfare of 

the Telugu people and his 

transformative policies as the 

Chief Minister were fondly 

remembered. 

One of the most significant 

aspects of the celebration was the 

blood donation camp organised 

in honour of NTR on 1 June, 2024. 

The camp saw the participation 

One of the most significant aspects of the celebration was the blood donation camp organised in honour of NTR. Photo: Supplied 

of 22 dedicated individuals who 

donated blood as a mark of 

respect and to remember the late 

leader. This act of kindness and 

community service was in line 

with NTR's philanthropic ideals, 

reflecting his commitment to 

social welfare and public service. 

The organisers expressed 

their gratitude to the volunteers 

and donors. The New Zealand 

TDP Committee's celebration of 

NTR's 101st birthday was a grand 

success, bringing together the 

Telugu community in Auckland to 

honour a legendary figure whose 

contributions continue to inspire 

generations. 


Ram raids 

down 80% 

compared 

with same 

time last year 

PRETORIA GORDON/RNZ 

Ram raids are down more 

than 80 percent for the 

month of April compared to 

last year. 

Police have identified 12 ram 

raids in April 2024, compared to 64 

in April 2023. 

Provisional police data from 

April 2017 to April 2024 shows a 

downwards trend since the peak in 

August 2022, when there were 86. 

There were a total of 433 ram 

raids in 2022, 288 in 2023, and 67 

in the first four months of this year. 

Legislation introducing a new 

ram raid offence passed its first 

reading in August. 

The Ram Raid Offending and 

Related Measures Amendment 

Bill would add 'smash-and-grabs' 

to the Crimes Act, and would give 

police the power to prosecute 

children as young as 12 with up 

to 10 years in prison, including for 

being a passenger, or filming the 

incident. 

Around 70 percent of identified 

ram raiders were aged between 14 

and 17, and a further 12 percent 

were aged between 10 and 13.


NEW ZEALAND 9 

Mitre 10: Helping 

Kiwi-Indians build 

their dream home 

IWK BUREAU 

their online shopping experience 

both easy and efficient. 

Owning a home is a dream “I use the Mitre 10 website to 

for many Kiwi-Indians in buy smaller household essentials 

New Zealand, and Nikita like cleaning supplies and bug 

Juneja is turning that dream into sprays,” she says. 

reality as a first-time homebuyer. Their website is a one-stop 

Alongside her husband, Gaurav, shop for all the equipment needed 

they are thrilled to embark on this for a new home, providing not 

new chapter of homeownership. only a shopping destination but 

Inside their tastefully decorated also offering inspirational ideas 

home, warm white lamps, 

to personalise and enhance a new 

bright rugs and potted plants space. 

compliment the matching sofa, Mitre 10, a renowned 

all set to a soothing musical New Zealand chain of home 

backdrop. 

improvement stores founded in 

Excited about Mitre 10's 50th June 1974, offers a wide range 

Anniversary deals, the couple of products, including household 

plans to revamp their garden hardware, building supplies, 

with clayfibre egg pots, enamel heaters, paint, garden products, 

spotlights, and deck & timber barbeque, and power tools. 

paint. 

The company began as a 

For their household needs, the local co-operative in Melbourne, 

couple prefers shopping at Mitre Australia, in 1959, with eight 

10, especially Nikita, who finds independent operators pooling 

High Commission of India 

in collaboration with 

Auckland Indian 

diaspora invites you to 

celebrate the 10th 

International Day of Yoga 

2024 

resources for shared advertising 

and promotion. It became part of 

New Zealand’s home improvement 

culture in 1974 and has since 

grown into the country’s largest 

home improvement and garden 

retailer. 

Mitre 10’s success is rooted 

in its commitment to customer 

service providing the inspiration, 

advice, tools, and materials 

needed for home improvement 

projects. The brand has become 

part of New Zealand’s DIY DNA, 

earning the trust of Kiwis and 

being awarded the most trusted 

brand in home improvement 

retailing 11 times. 

With the colder months 

approaching, another Kiwi-Indian 

Mitre 10 shopper, Himanshu 

Bhambani, a 36-year-old café 

owner who relocated to New 

Zealand in 2014, is planning 

additional renovations to his 

Manurewa 

home, which 

he purchased 

in 2021. 

He plans 

to buy new 

outdoor 

furniture and a 

Nikita Juneja 

barbeque for his 

deck. 

“I bought a 

shed from Mitre 

10, and it was 

the best decision. 

When I first moved 

into this house, almost 

everything was from Mitre 

10,” Himanshu quips. “From door 

panels to bathroom appliances,” 

he adds. 

Himanshu and his wife Swati 

have a two-year-old son who 

adores their deck. They're 

preparing to create a secure 

play area for him and his friends, 

using the deals from the Mitre 10 

50th Birthday deals to add a new 

feature to their home. 

“I want to build a safe play area 

for my son. I trust Mitre 10 for the 

safety equipment needed for him’, 

says Himanshu. 

Mitre 10 is dedicated to creating 

safe play spaces for children. In a 

2021 article titled “Better School 

Playgrounds Build Better Kids,” 

the company noted 

that public funding 

often falls short in 

covering school play 

areas. This insight 

led to the creation of 

Project Playground, an 

initiative where the Mitre 

10 Helping Hands community 

programme, along with experts 

from Playground People, built 

three exceptional playgrounds for 

primary schools in early 2022. 

Mitre 10’s involvement in 

community projects spans 

decades, with initiatives ranging 

from Helping Hands and Project 

Playground to Nelson’s Helicopter 

Houses and Southland Charity 

Hospital, wildlife preservation 

projects, and the Takahē Recovery 

Programme. 

As Mitre 10 celebrates its 50th 

anniversary this month, its reach 

is extensive, supporting hundreds 

of schools, sports teams, 

charities, events, and non-profit 

organisations every year. 

Join us for a morning of yoga, health and more! 

16 June at 10am 

Please arrive by 9.45am. Bring your own yoga mat 

M a h a t m a G a n d h i C e n t r e 

1 4 5 N e w N o r t h R o a d , E d e n T e r r a c e 

A u c k l a n d

10 

NEW ZEALAND 

SUSAN EDMUNDS/RNZ 

Another day, another 

member of parliament in 

the news for their expense 

claims. 

First it was Prime Minister 

Christopher Luxon, claiming 

$52,000 a year for the use of 

his Wellington home instead of 

shifting in to Premier House. (He 

later said he would no longer claim 

it.) Then more recently, Ōtaki MP 

Tim Costley was revealed to be 

claiming an allowance of $36,000 

for a Wellington apartment 

he owns. Then Mastertonbased 

Kieran McAnulty made 

headlines for claiming the same 

allowance to rent a Lower Hutt 

property from his wife. 

So how do the allowances work, 

and what are some of the other 

perks MPs get? 

Prime Minister's housing allowance 

The prime minister is 

entitled to the use of Premier 

House, in Wellington. As Luxon 

demonstrated, those who do 

not live in Wellington and do 

not choose to live in Premier 

House can claim up to $52,000 

in a "continuous accommodation 

payment" each year. If the PM 

does not take that allowance, 

he can claim reimbursement of 

"actual and reasonable" expenses 

in a hotel in Wellington. 

That can be up to $350 a night 

or $52,000 a year. (It may be 

important to note that this does 

not include payment for meals, 

laundry, minibar or parking.) 

The speaker, deputy speaker and 

ministers can also be allocated an 

official residence if they do not live 

in Wellington already, or receive 

the $52,000 payment. 

MPs' housing allowance 

MPs can claim up to $36,400 a 

year in continuous accommodation 

payments if they are normally 

based outside Wellington, or up 

to $260 a night if they stay in 

commercial premises - or $70 a 

night elsewhere. 

If they share with other people, 

the maximum continuous 

accommodation payment is 

reduced - when living with one 

other person, they can receive 70 

percent, with two it is 60 percent 

and with three, 55 percent. 

Wellington accommodation 

expense payments can be 

increased in special circumstances 

that stop the MPs travelling as 

they normally would. 

Accommodation and travel 

Accommodation is paid for 

members who are travelling 

outside Wellington for work. 

Ministers, the speaker and the 

leader of the opposition can 

claim up to $425 per night for 

accommodation in Queenstown or 

$350 outside Queenstown. 

For other members of parliament, 

accommodation can be up to $290 

a night in Queenstown or $260 

outside Queenstown. 

"MPs are only able to use travel 

for 'Parliamentary purposes' 

and there is a specific separate 

determination that the authority 

updates every three years which 

allows strictly controlled and 

limited travel for spouses to 

accompany MPs, travelling within 

New Zealand for Parliamentary 

purposes, to attempt to instal 

some family-friendliness into 

their existence," Remuneration 

Authority chair Geoff Summers 

said. 

Travel overseas by MPs can be 

funded by leadership funds or a 

rebate, but this travel has to be 

approved by the Speaker and party 

leader or whip. The leader of the 

opposition can use $150,000 from 

the travel appropriation over a 

term of Parliament. 

Partners and family members 

A member of parliament can 

claim the expense of an evening 

meal up to a maximum $80 for 

their spouse or partner if it was 

necessary or appropriate for the 

spouse to be there, they had to be 

away overnight and a meal was 

not provided. As Summers said, 

partners and children have access 

to travel services too. 


Members' partners are limited 

to taking up to 20 one-way trips 

in a year. Partners of a minister, 

speaker, deputy speaker, or the 

leader of the opposition may 

take up to 30. There is no cap for 

the prime minister's partner, or 

children aged under 18. 

The prime minister's partner can 

make use of a chauffeur-driven car 

if they are fulfilling their role. For 

parliamentary purposes, partners 

of the speaker, deputy speaker, 

ministers, leader of the opposition 

and the leader of a party with 25 or 

more members in parliament can 

also make use of cars. 

Partners can also claim back the 

costs of using their car to drop off 

an MP at an event, using their car 

for parliamentary or ministerial 

business, or if they are joining the 

MP at a destination. 

End of employment 

When an MP does not stand 

for election or is not re-elected at 

the next election they can receive 

three months' salary. 

Former prime ministers who 

were in the job for more than two 


What perks do MPs really get? 

The PM is entitled to the use of Premier House, MPs may also receive entitlements relating to accommodation and travel and they receive a 

basic allowance which is expected to cover the cost of things like meals. Photo: CC BY-SA 4.0 / Ballofstring, 123RF 

IWK BUREAU 

Auckland’s vibrant cultural landscape 

is set to resonate with the soulful 

strains of Indian classical and 

traditional music genres as celebrated 

vocalist Mahesh Kale prepares to enchant 

audiences on September 1, 2024. This 

highly anticipated concert, a key highlight 

of his Australia New Zealand tour, promises 

an evening of rich musical tradition and 

mesmerising performances. 

Organised by Shanayaan Arts and CFI 

Events, with the support of the Mohan 

Nadkarni Foundation and Migrant Heritage 

Charitable Trust, the event will be held at 

the Dorothy Winstone Centre. 

Mahesh Kale, a name synonymous with 

contemporary Indian classical music, 

has garnered acclaim for his ability to 

seamlessly blend tradition with innovation. 

Born into a family with a profound 

musical heritage, Kale's journey into the 

world of music began at a young age. 

Under the tutelage of renowned maestro 

Pandit Jitendra Abhisheki, Kale honed his 

skills and developed a unique style that 

resonates with both purists and new-age 

listeners. 

Kale’s versatility as a vocalist is evident 

in his extensive repertoire, which spans 

classical ragas, semi-classical forms, 

and devotional music. His performances 

are characterised by a deep emotional 

connection, technical prowess, and an 

innate ability to communicate the essence 

of the music to his audience. 

His dedication to preserving and 

promoting Indian classical music has 

earned him numerous accolades, including 

the prestigious National Film Award for 

Best Playback Singer. 

He divides his time between California, 

USA and Pune, India. 

The Auckland concert is part of Kale’s 

Australia New Zealand tour, which aims to 

bring the rich heritage of Indian classical 

music to a broader audience. His concerts 

are more than mere performances; they 

are immersive experiences that transport 

listeners to a world of intricate rhythms, 

melodious ragas, and soulful expressions. 

Each performance is a testament to Kale’s 

dedication to his craft and his unwavering 

commitment to excellence. 

The upcoming concert has already 

generated significant excitement within 

Auckland’s Indian community and among 

lovers of classical music. The support from 

organisations like the Mohan Nadkarni 

years receive an ongoing annuity 

of $12,000 for each complete year 

in office up to a maximum $60,000 

at present. 

They also have travel 

entitlements: Former prime 

ministers can be paid for travel 

on planes, trains, ferries, nonurban 

buses and taxis if they are 

doing work related to their former 

role, or they can use chauffeurdriven 

cars. Former PMs can also 

have use of a self-drive car and 

the maintenance and fuel costs 

associated with that. 

It used to be the case that MPs 

who joined Parliament before 1999 

could retire with generous travel 

discounts, up to 90 percent of the 

cost of a business class flight to 

London a year. Summers said that 

was no longer the case. 

"I doubt that there are any MPs 

who still have those rights - the 

changes were applied to new 

members thereby 'grandparenting' 

existing people who already had 

them. I have been here now for over 

eight years and all those perks had 

long gone before I got here." 

Security systems 

MPs can claim for the cost of 

installing a security system at their 

home, up to a maximum $4500. 

Superannuation subsidy 

MPs have access to 

a superannuation subsidy up 

to two-and-a-half-times their 

contribution to a maximum 20 

percent of salary. A backbencher 

earning $168,600 contributing 3 

percent of their salary would get a 

contribution of $12,645. 

Basic allowance 

MPs also receive a basic 

allowance each year to cover the 

cost of things like donations, raffle 

tickets, flowers, and meals. This 

used to also include a direction 

that only the PM could use it for 

clothes and grooming. 

For the prime minister this is 

$226,606, for the speaker, $21,136 

and every other member of 

parliament it is $16,980. 

Indian music virtuoso Mahesh Kale to perform in Auckland 

Foundation and Migrant Heritage Charitable 

Trust highlights the importance of such 

cultural events in fostering community 

spirit and preserving cultural heritage. 

These organisations play a crucial role in 

promoting arts and culture, ensuring that 

the rich traditions of Indian traditional 

music continue to thrive in the diaspora. 

As the date approaches, anticipation 

is building, and tickets are selling fast. 

Music enthusiasts are eager to witness 

Kale’s masterful rendition of classical 

ragas and his unique ability to breathe 

new life into traditional compositions. For 

many, this concert is a rare opportunity to 

experience the magic of Indian classical 

music performed by one of its most gifted 

exponents. 

As the city prepares to welcome this 

musical luminary, one thing is certain: 

September 1, 2024, will be a night to 

remember for all those fortunate enough to 

be in attendance. 

Event details: The concert will take place 

on September 1, 2024, at the Dorothy 

Winstone Centre in Auckland. It is 

organised by Shanayaan Arts and CFI 

Events, with support from the Mohan 

Nadkarni Foundation and Migrant 

Heritage Charitable Trust.


NEW ZEALAND 11 

Thousands of parents still waiting 

2 years after resident visas reopen 

GILL BONNETT/RNZ 

Families are fed up with 

delays and a lottery to allow 

their overseas parents to 

join them permanently in New 

Zealand. 

About 12,000 parents of 

residents and citizens are waiting, 

but only 500 people have been 

picked to apply in the past year. 

A different contingent, 

who applied while the parent 

resident visa was suspended from 

2016, are edging their way to 

approval. 

When the former immigration 

minister Michael Wood announced 

the new parent visa in October 

2022, it was estimated it would 

take three to four years to clear the 

backlog of more than 8500 parents 

who were already waiting. 

But changed circumstances 

over up to a decade and withdrawn 

applications, among them parents 

or children who have died, or no 

longer meet criteria - meant that 

by November 2023, all expressions 

of interest (EOIs) in the queue had 

been selected and invited to apply. 

Natasha Telles' father, Derek, got 

his parent resident visa in March 

as she applied eight years ago - 

before she had children - and he 

arrived last month. 

"We're all kind of still pinching 

ourselves. My children are now 

eight and six, and my six-year-old 

walks around school, saying 'my 

Papa's here for ever and ever'," she 

said. 

But her mother, Anne, died 

during the long wait for the visa, 

which was closed in 2016. She had 

to watch her funeral on a screen 

because the borders had closed 

for Covid. 

"There's another family we know 

who has been on a similar journey, 

also ended up losing a parent in 

the process, because that's just 

how long it took." 

Derek Telles reunited with his grandchildren at Auckland Airport. Photo: Supplied / Natasha Telles 

She said people viewed parents 

as helpless and dependent, but 

her 70-year-old father was already 

contributing to the community, 

teaching hockey. 

'Not a priority' 

Raina Vermani's 10-year-old 

daughter was a toddler when the 

parent category closed, stopping 

her Indian parents-in-law joining 

them as residents. 

By the time a ballot opened to 

new applications last year, there 

was an annual cap of 2500 and 

most of those places went to 

existing applicants. 

Thousands of others joined a 

Raina Vermani’s children and parents-in-law on earlier visits to New Zealand. Photo: Supplied 

/ Raina Vermani 

quarterly ballot, where only 100 or 

200 people were chosen at a time 

to go to the next stage 

She will have to pay another fee 

- varying between $430 and $550 

- if they are not successful in the 

next ballot in August. 

Vermani said it was time for the 

coalition government to deliver 

on its promise of a renewable 

five-year visa for those who were 

waiting. 

"We helped them, right, they 

wanted our vote and we gave it to 

them, we listened to the promises 

they made and we believed in 

them. And now we feel like 'oh well, 

so now we're not a priority'. And 

they don't even talk about it. So it 

is quite frustrating." 

The ballot was a lottery and 

for pending applicants felt like a 

money-making exercise, with an 

estimated revenue so far of $6 

million. 

Syed Khurram Iqbal, 

an Environment Hearing 

Commissioner and Justice of the 

Peace, has been able to get to the 

next stage - a visa application in 

December. But he said he and his 

parents in Pakistan were in the 

dark about how long it would take 

for a decision. 

"They should update the latest 

information I have no idea how 

much the total [visa] count is for 

this financial year, which is going 

to be close to 30th of June. And in 

the current scenario, what is the 

average processing time?" 

Immigration New Zealand visa 

director Jock Gilray said the annual 

2500 figure was an upper limit, not 

a quota. This financial year, it has 

approved almost 2500 people in 

principle, and of those had issued 

2100 visas. 

As the older applications are 

finalised, participants will have 

a greater chance in upcoming 

ballots. Until then, parents can 

stay for up to six months at a time 

- 18 months over three years - or 

there is a parent retirement visa for 

wealthier people who can invest 

assets. 

Malcolm Pacific Immigration 

chief executive David Cooper said 

for those waiting in the ballot - 

and thousands more who did not 

meet the salary requirement to 

apply - the coalition government's 

proposed five-year, renewable visa 

would be an "elegant solution". 

"There's been tinkering around 

the edges, the salary for the child 

sponsor has gone through the 

roof," Cooper said. 

"I think there's a whole lot of 

factors that are at play and I think 

that temporary visa would take a 

whole lot of pressure away and that 

would then give the government 

time to sit back and say well, is the 

current parent category actually 

fit for purpose? Should we be 

even playing in the sandpit in the 

first place, should we even have a 

parent category? And if we should 

have what should it look like?" 

Woman dies as cancer goes undiagnosed by doctors for 5 years 

RNZ 

A 

woman died of ovarian 

cancer after multiple 

doctors and investigations 

failed to diagnose her for five 

years. 

A report published on Monday 

has found the Northland District 

Health Board - now Health New 

Zealand - Te Whatu Ora Te 

Tai Tokerau - missed multiple 

opportunities to diagnose and 

treat the woman, who was in 

her fifties, Deputy Health and 

Disability Commissioner Dr 

Vanessa Caldwell said. 

Between 2014 and 2019, the 

woman had multiple referrals and 

many investigations over postmenopausal 

bleeding, but no 

treatment plan was put in place, 

and surgery was not offered. 

When a MRI scan was finally 

done, it confirmed the woman 

had stage four ovarian cancer, 

and she died only a few months 

later. 

"We helped them, 

right, they wanted our 

vote and we gave it 

to them, we listened 

to the promises they 

made and we believed 

in them. And now we 

feel like 'oh well, so now 

we're not a priority'. 

And they don't even talk 

about it. So it is quite 

frustrating." 

"I am critical of the failure by 

multiple clinicians to consider 

the causes of the woman's 

symptoms critically, manage 

the post-menopausal bleeding 

appropriately, and undertake 

necessary imaging in the form 

of pelvic ultrasounds and/or CT 

scans," said Caldwell. 

She said the woman's condition 

warranted a hysterectomy or 

hormonal therapy, but it was 

not offered, nor was imaging 

undertaken, which could have 

confirmed an earlier diagnosis. 

"The missed opportunities to 

provide treatment information 

are attributable to multiple 

clinicians, and signify a failure 

at an organisational level, for 

which Health New Zealand is 

responsible," Caldwell said. 

The matter continued to cause 

the woman's whānau "significant 

distress", she said. 

The Commission found the 

failure breached the woman's 

right to receive services of 

an appropriate standard, and 

her right to be provided with 

treatment options, as guaranteed 

under the Code of Health and 

Disability Services Consumer's 

Rights. 

"The missed 

opportunities to 

provide treatment 

information are 

attributable to 

multiple clinicians, 

and signify a failure 

at an organisational 

level, for which 

Health New Zealand 

is responsible," Dr 

Vanessa Caldwel 

"In my view, offering support 

only at the start and end of care 

is not a culturally responsive or 

appropriate approach, especially 

given the woman's long-standing 

engagement with the healthcare 

system," she said. 

Health New Zealand has made 

a number of changes since the 

woman's death, and further 

recommendations have been 

made by Dr Caldwell in the report. 

The recommendations include 

a written apology to the woman's 

whānau, developing a policy for 

unresolved post-menopausal 

bleeding, and an audit of patients 

who have re-presented to Te 

Whatu Ora Te Tai Tokerau 

over the past 12 months with 

symptoms of unresolved postmenopausal 

bleeding. 

The report also recommended 

Te Whatu Ora Te Tai Tokerau to 

consider developing or reviewing 

systems that identified and 

addressed the need for ongoing 

cultural support.

Editorial 

Stop blaming 

previous govt, 

QUOTE OF THE WEEK 

"It is confidence in our bodies, minds, and 

spirits that allows us to keep looking for new 

adventures." - Oprah Winfrey 

IN FOCUS : Picture of the week 

take action now 

The rampant rise in violent retail crimes, particularly ram raids, that has created 

a climate of fear and uncertainty over the past three or so years, continues 

unabated. This alarming trend is coupled with skyrocketing insurance 

premiums and expenditure on physical safety measures, making it increasingly 

difficult for small business owners to sustain their operations. 

Six months into his tenure as Police Minister, Mark Mitchell continues to face 

mounting public dissatisfaction over the state of law and order. At various public 

meetings, business owners have voiced their concerns and frustrations, asking the 

same pressing question: Why hasn’t the crime situation improved under his watch? 

Minister Mitchell’s response has been consistent, if not predictable. He attributes 

the current crime peak to the policies of the previous Labour government, saying that 

such issues cannot be resolved overnight. 

“We’re not going to fix it in a few weeks. We are putting in place stronger legislative 

measures that we hope will eventually reduce crime,” he was quoted as saying during 

a recent meeting with retail shop owners in Manurewa, a suburb in southern Auckland. 

This narrative has been Mitchell’s shield against criticism, but it raises a critical 

question: How long can he and his government continue to pin the blame on a previous 

government that has been out of power for over half a year? When asked about a 

timeline for visible results from his policies, Mitchell’s response was notably vague. 

“Well, I would have loved to fix [it] six months ago. 

"The reality is, we are not going to turn it around overnight. It has taken six years to 

bake it in,” he told The Indian Weekender. 

While it is true that systemic issues cannot be resolved instantaneously, continuous 

deflection of responsibility is not a sustainable or acceptable strategy. The public, 

especially those directly affected by the surge in retail crimes, deserve more concrete 

answers and actionable plans. 

Mitchell’s assertion that the previous government’s focus on reducing the prison 

population by 30 per cent and favouring alternative actions has exacerbated the crime 

situation may hold some truth. However, leadership demands accountability and 

proactive measures, not just retrospective critiques. 

Mitchell has been at pains to say his efforts to ensure that police presence is more 

pronounced and that officers are focusing on their core duties. “[We are ensuring] they 

get back to basics… getting them out of some of the work they currently do so that 

they can work on their core role… so that when members of the public who put up their 

hand when they genuinely need it, they get the help they want,” he explained. 

While these initiatives are commendable, they are part of a long-term strategy that 

requires time to bear fruit. 

In the interim, small business owners continue to grapple with the immediate threats 

to their safety and livelihood. Although Mitchell pointed to “greenshoots” indicating a 

downward trend in crime statistics, the lived experiences of many in our community 

tell a different story. 

Recent government data shows a significant drop in ram raids, with 12 incidents 

reported in April 2024 compared to 64 in April 2023. 

The overall trend since the peak in August 2022, when there were 86 ram raids, 

suggests some improvement. 

Yet, the total number of 433 ram raids in 2022 and 288 in 2023 still paints a grim 

picture of the pervasive threat that retailers face. 

Mitchell’s acknowledgment that “there’s a lot of work to do” is an understatement. 

For the business owners who face the daily threat of violent crimes, the assurance 

that crime rates are starting to trend down is little comfort. 

They need more immediate and tangible support measures, such as increased 

police patrols, quicker response times, and perhaps financial assistance for improved 

security infrastructure. 

The government, voted into power on strong promises to tackle crime, must now 

deliver on those promises. 

The time for blaming predecessors is over. 

The focus should now be on swift, effective actions that provide relief and security 

to those who are most vulnerable. The Indian Weekender will continue to hold those 

in power accountable, amplifying the voices of our community and advocating for the 

protection and prosperity of our small business owners. 

A man carrying his child commutes while their heads are covered with a cloth on a 

scorching hot afternoon at Heritage Street near the Golden Temple in Amritsar on 

Wednesday. (ANI Photo) 

This week in New Zealand’s history 

15 June 1959 

Chinese gooseberry becomes kiwifruit 

The prominent produce company Turners and Growers announced that it would from now 

on export Chinese gooseberries as ‘kiwifruit’. Introduced to this country in 1904, kiwifruit 

are now cultivated worldwide, with New Zealand-grown fruit marketed as ‘Zespri’. 


First game of rugby played in NZ? 

The first game of football in New Zealand played under Rugby rules may have been a 

match between Whanganui Town and Country at suburban Aramoho on Saturday 19 

June 1869. There was still no score when darkness fell after ‘two hours hard kicking’, so the 

game was completed the following Saturday. 


Niagara mined off Northland coast 

The Second World War arrived in New Zealand with a bang when German mines sank the 

trans-Pacific liner Niagara off Northland’s Bream Head. The sinking shocked the public 

and shattered any illusions that distance would protect these islands from enemy attack. 


All Blacks win the first World Cup 

With Michael Jones, John Kirwan and David Kirk scoring tries, the All Blacks defeated 

France 29–9 at Eden Park, Auckland. Kirk became the first captain to lift the Webb Ellis 

Cup. 


The Beatles land in New Zealand 

Beatlemania hit New Zealand when 7000 hysterical fans greeted the Fab Four in Wellington 

during their ‘Far East’ tour. After concerts in the United States, Europe, Hong Kong and 

Australia, the lads from Liverpool touched down in New Zealand. 


Battle of Te Ranga 

Te Ranga was the sequel to the battle of Gate Pā (see 29 April). Following their humiliating 

defeat, some of the British force at Tauranga returned to Auckland. Meanwhile, their Ngāi 

Te Rangi opponents were reinforced by fighters from Ngāti Rangiwewehi, Ngāti Pikiao and 

Ngāti Porou. They began building a pā at Te Ranga, 5 km inland from Gate Pā. 

Indian Weekender : Volume 16 - Issue 12 

Publisher: Kiwi Media Publishing Limited 

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

General Manager: Ravi Bajpai | 020 441 2233 | ravi@indianweekender.co.nz 

Graphic Designer: Yashmin Chand | design@indianweekender.co.nz 

Accounts and Admin.: 09-2173623 | accounts@indianweekender.co.nz 

Senior Digital Producer: Urjita Bhardwaj | 021 952 246 | urjita@indianweekender.co.nz 

Views expressed in the publication are not necessarily of the publisher and the publisher 

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. 

Copyright ® 2022. Kiwi Media Publishing Limited. All Rights Reserved. 

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INDIA 

PM Modi 3.0 

cabinet has blend of experience, 

competence and finest minds: 

BJP leader CR Kesavan 

BJP leader CR Kesavan 

stated that Prime Minister 

Narendra Modi 3.0 cabinet 

has a blend of experience, 

competence and the finest minds 

in the country. 

BJP leader CR Kesavan said, 

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi 

ji's 3.0 cabinet very strongly 

signals commitment, continuity, 

competence, conviction and 

clarity. Yesterday we saw that 

the prime minister in the first 

files signed was giving the 17th 

instalment of PM Samman Nidhi 

for 9.3 crore. 

The team Modi ji assembled has 

a blend of experience, competence 

and the finest minds in our country. 

It's a very strong team." 

He further said that in the first 

cabinet meeting under the PM 

Awas Yojana 3 crore houses have 

been sanctioned apart from the 

existing 4.21 crore houses that 

have been completed for eligible 

poor families under the housing 

schemes in the last 10 years. 

"This shows the commitment 

and continuity of PM Modi's 

pioneering reforms for inclusive 

growth and social welfare. 

PM Modi said that PMO should 

be the people's PMO, and all of us 

should put the nation first. This 

clarity of vision and conviction is 

very inspiring," he added. 

He further took a jibe at Congress 

MP Rahul Gandhi and said that he 

had a lack of grace as he did not 

wish PM Modi and his new team. 

He further said, "I also want 

to underline while all the world 

leaders are celebrating this great 

victory of Indian democracy and 

After assuming charge as 

Union Home Minister and 

Minister of Cooperation on 

Tuesday, senior BJP leader Amit 

Shah said that Modi 3.0 will take 

its efforts for India's security to 

the next level and build Bharat as 

a bulwark against terrorism and 

naxalism. 

Taking to X he shared, "Under 

the stewardship of PM Narendra 

Modi Ji, I reassumed charge of the 

Ministry of Home Affairs today. 

The MHA will remain committed 

to the security of the nation and 

its people, as it always has been. 

Modi 3.0 will take its efforts for 

India's security to the next level 

and build Bharat as a bulwark 

against terrorism, insurgency, and 

naxalism." 

Shah took charge as Home 

Minister for the second 

consecutive term. He has been 

holding the portfolio since 2019. 

Speaking about his role in the 

Home Ministry, Shah said, "In 

Modi 3.0, the MHA will continue 

to accelerate and strengthen 

security initiatives and introduce 

new approaches to realize PM 

Modi's vision of a secure Bharat." 

"This shows the 

commitment and 

continuity of PM Modi's 

pioneering reforms 

for inclusive growth 

and social welfare. PM 

Modi said that PMO 

should be the people's 

PMO, and all of us 

should put the nation 

first." 

Modi ji's historic third term Rahul 

Gandhi, I would say poor taste and 

On empowering farmers and 

villages through the Ministry of 

Cooperation, Shah said, "Under 

the astute leadership of Modi 

Ji, the Ministry of Cooperation 

will remain committed to 

empowering farmers and villages 

with the vision of 'Sahakaar Se 

Samriddhi'." 

Earlier in the day Amit Shah paid 

tributes to police personnel, who 

lost their lives in the line of duty 

at the National Police Memorial 

in Chanakyapuri in the national 

capital. 

The 59-year-old BJP leader 

a trusted confidante of Prime 

lack of grace have not even wished 

Modi ji and the new team." 

PM Modi kicked off his third term 

in office by authorising the release 

of the 17th instalment of PM 

Kisan Nidhi, which aims to benefit 

9.3 crore farmers and distribute 

around Rs 20,000 crores. 

After signing the file, PM Modi 

said, "Ours is a Government fully 

committed to Kisan Kalyan. It is 

therefore fitting that the first file 

signed on taking charge is related 

to farmer welfare. We want to keep 

working even more for the farmers 

and the agriculture sector in the 

times to come." 

Modi 3.0 will take its efforts for India's security 

to next level: Union Home Minister Amit Shah 

Minister Narendra Modi and the 

party's key strategist served as 

the Union Home Minister in the 

previous Modi government. 

Shah had won Gujarat's 

Gandhinagar seat by a huge 

margin of 7,44,716 votes. Shah 

gathered 10,10,972 votes beating 

Congress' Sonal Patel who got 

2,66,256. In the 2023 Lok Sabha 

elections, he won Gujarat's 

Gandhinagar seat by a huge 

margin of 7,44,716 votes. 

Shah gathered 10,10,972 votes 

beating Congress' Sonal Patel 

who got 2,66,256. 


A 

day after the swearing-in 

ceremony, the BJP-led 

NDA government under 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi set 

the ball running by allocating key 

portfolios to ministers. 

Nirmala Sitharaman has 

been entrusted with the 

critical portfolios of Finance 

and Corporate Affairs. This 

assignment underscores her 

continued role in India’s economic 

policies and managing corporate 

governance. 

The President of India, upon the 

advice of the Prime Minister, has 

formally allocated key portfolios 

to members of the Union Council 

of Ministers. 

The official oath-taking 

ceremony took place on June 9, 

marking the commencement of 

the Modi 3.0. 

This cabinet formation includes 

30 cabinet ministers, 36 ministers 

of state (MoS), and 5 MoS with 

independent charge from the 

BJP and its allies, marking the 

establishment of the National 

Democratic Alliance (NDA) 

government under Prime Minister 

Narendra Modi’s leadership. 

Many of the ministers have been 

retained with their last jobs in the 

interest of continuity as well. 

Nitin Jairam Gadkari’s 

appointment as the Minister of 

Road Transport and Highways 

signifies the government’s 

continued focus on infrastructure 

development and connectivity 

enhancement. His track record of 

implementing innovative policies 

and delivering results in previous 

ministerial roles instils confidence 

in his ability to drive forward the 

transportation agenda effectively. 

Gadkari emphasized the 

importance of world-class roads 

for a USD 5 trillion economy. 

Piyush Goyal has been given 

the portfolio of Commerce and 

Industry. Goyal’s appointment is 

seen as a move to bolster India’s 

trade relations and industrial 

growth. With extensive experience 

in previous ministerial roles, 

he is expected to lead efforts 

in boosting exports, attracting 

foreign investment, and promoting 

the ‘Make in India’ initiative, which 

is crucial for economic expansion 

and job creation. 

Hardeep Singh Puri has retained 

his position as the Minister of 


Modi 3.0: Sitharaman retains 

finance ministry: A look at key 

ministers managing economy 

Petroleum and Natural Gas. This 

marks his continued tenure in a 

role critical to the nation’s energy 

policies and strategic planning, as 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 

new cabinet embarks on its third 

term. 

Ashwini Vaishnaw has been 

assigned a portfolio that includes 

the Minister of Railways, Minister 

of Information and Broadcasting, 

and Minister of Electronics and 

Information Technology. 

Vaishnaw will oversee the 

modernization and expansion of 

India’s railway network, a crucial 

element for national connectivity 

and economic growth. 

Manohar Lal has been 

appointed as the Minister of 

Housing and Urban Affairs, as 

well as the Minister of Power. His 

dual role is particularly significant 

as the government aims to 

accelerate urban development and 

enhance energy infrastructure. 

Manohar Lal’s focus will likely 

be on advancing the Smart Cities 

initiative and ensuring reliable, 

sustainable power supply across 

the nation, aligning with India’s 

urbanization and renewable 

energy goals. 

Jitan Ram Manjhi has been 

assigned to the Ministry of Micro, 

Small and Medium Enterprises 

(MSME), a sector that plays a vital 

role in India’s economy. Manjhi 

will be focusing on enhancing 

the competitiveness of MSMEs, 

providing them with the necessary 

support and resources. 

The allocation of these 

portfolios reflects the 

government’s strategic priorities 

and its focus on economic 

development, infrastructure 

enhancement, and social equity.


WORLD 15 

Joe Biden 

heads to G7 

summit focused 

on Ukraine aid, 

China's support 

for Russia 

U.S. President Joe 

Biden flies to Italy on 

Wednesday for meetings 

with Group of Seven leaders 

aimed at increasing pressure 

on Russia over its war against 

Ukraine and China for its support 

of Moscow and excess industrial 

capacity. 

The G7 leaders arrive at the 

summit confronting myriad 

woes at home even as they seek 

solutions for many of the world's 

most pressing problems. 

Biden, 81, spent Tuesday 

evening at his home in 

Wilmington, Delaware, after a 

12-member jury convicted his 

son Hunter Biden of lying about 

his drug use to illegally buy a gun 

in 2018, making him the first child 

of a sitting U.S. president to be 

convicted of a crime. 

The trial followed the May 30 

criminal conviction of Republican 

former President Donald Trump, 

the first former U.S. president to 

In a gesture of diplomatic goodwill, 

Nepal's Minister of Foreign Affairs, 

Narayan Kaji Shrestha on Tuesday 

extended his congratulations to S 

Jaishankar on his reappointment as 

External Affairs Minister in Prime Minister 

Narendra Modi's cabinet. 

Expressing optimism for future 

collaborations, Shrestha emphasized the 

importance of fostering and strengthening 

the warm and close friendship between 

New Delhi and Kathmandu. 

He conveyed eagerness to work closely 

with Jaishankar to further expand and 

consolidate the bilateral ties between the 

two neighbouring nations. 

"Heartiest congratulations Dr S 

Jaishankar on your reappointment as 

Minister of External Affairs of India. Look 

forward to working closely with you in 

further expanding and consolidating warm 

be found guilty of a felony. Biden 

and Trump are running against 

each other in the November 

presidential election and are 

neck-and-neck in the polls. 

The heads of the world's most 

developed democracies will 

address multiple challenges 

during the June 13-15 meeting, 

including wars in Ukraine and the 

Middle East, trade imbalances 

with China, threats posed 

by artificial intelligence and 

development challenges in Africa. 

The leaders will announce new 

sanctions and export controls 

against Russia that target entities 

and networks helping President 

Vladimir Putin's forces fight the 

war in Ukraine, White House 

spokesperson John Kirby said on 

Tuesday. "We're going to continue 

to drive up costs for the Russian 

war machine," Kirby said. 

Washington plans to widen 

sanctions on the sale of 

semiconductor chips and other 

Nepal counterpart congratulates 

Jaishankar on reappointment as 

Minister of External Affairs 

and close Nepal-India friendship. Wish you 

a successful tenure of office," he said in a 

post on social media platform X. 

Jaishankar, a prominent BJP figure 

who navigated India's diplomatic 

strategies during Prime Minister Narendra 

Modi's second term, reassumed his 

responsibilities as External Affairs Minister 

at the Ministry of External Affairs located in 

South Block today. 

After assuming charge today, the 

69-year-old minister thanked PM Modi for 

entrusting him with the responsibility. 

"Assumed charge as the Minister of 

External Affairs. Thank PM Narendra Modi 

for assigning me this responsibility," said 

Jaishankar in a post on social media 

platform X. 

Jaishankar was among the 71-member 

Council of Ministers who took oath along 

with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 

goods to 

Russia, 

with the 

goal of 

targeting 

thirdparty 

sellers in China, sources familiar 

with the plans said late on 

Tuesday. 

The administration will 

announce it is broadening 

existing export controls to 

include U.S.-branded goods, not 

just those made in the United 

States, the sources said. It will 

identify certain Hong Kong 

entities it says are shipping 

goods to Moscow. 

Shoring up funding for 

Ukraine will be a top priority at 

the G7 meeting, with U.S. and 

European officials eager to lock 

in solutions, ahead of a possible 

Trump re-election and the 

uncertainty it would raise over 

future U.S. support for Kyiv. 

The Group of Seven nations 

and the European Union are 

considering how to use profits 

generated by Russian assets 

immobilized in the West to 

provide Ukraine with a large 

up-front loan to secure Kyiv's 

financing for 2025. 

"We will announce new steps 

to unlock the value of the 

immobilized Russian sovereign 

assets to benefit Ukraine and 

to help them recover from the 

destruction that Mr. Putin's army 

has caused," Kirby said. 

Biden will press other G7 

leaders to agree to an innovative 

plan to use future interest on 

some $281 billion of Russian 

central bank funds to back up a 

$50 billion loan to Ukraine. 

India participated at the High-Level 

Conference on 'Urgent Humanitarian 

Response for Gaza' in the Jordanian 

capital of Amman. 

Secretary (Consular Passport and Visa 

Division and Overseas Indian Affairs) of the 

Ministry of External Affairs, Muktesh Pardeshi 

represented New Delhi at the conference. 

He highlighted India's ongoing humanitarian, 

capacity building and developmental efforts 

at the conference, which was co-hosted by 

Jordan's King Abdullah. India's development 

assistance to Palestine over the years has 

reached close to USD 120 million. 

"Secy (CPV & OIA) @MukteshPardeshi 

represented India at the High-Level Conference 

in Amman on 'Urgent Humanitarian 

Response for Gaza'. The conference was cohosted 

by H.M. @KingAbdullahII of Jordan, 

President @AlsisiOfficial of Egypt & UNSG @ 

antonioguterres. Secretary highlighted India's 

ongoing humanitarian, capacity building and 

developmental efforts," MEA spokesperson 

Randhir Jaiswal stated on X. 

"India's development assistance to Palestine 

over the years has reached close to USD 120 

mn. As part of its annual commitment, India 

would be disbursing an amount of USD 2.5 mn 

to @UNRWAfor relief works soon," he added. 

The conflict in Gaza escalated on October 7 

after Hamas launched a massive terror attack 

on Israel killing over 1200 people and holding 

around 250 as hostages. 

Following this, Israel launched a strong 

counteroffensive, carrying out military 

operations against Hamas in the Gaza Strip 

with the aim of "completely eliminating" 

Hamas. However, the operations have led to 

massive civilian casualties with over 37,000 

Palestinians have been killed. 

Fired SpaceX 

workers sue 

Elon Musk over 

'workplace 

abuses' 

Workers fired by 

SpaceX filed a lawsuit 

Wednesday accusing 

Elon Musk of fostering a sexist 

"Dark Ages" culture at the company 

he founded. 

The civil complaint filed in a 

California court in Los Angeles 

contends Musk had the workers 

terminated after they published an 

open letter detailing their concerns 

and calling on the American 

aerospace firm's board to distance 

itself from the SpaceX chief 

executive. 

"Elon Musk trumpets SpaceX as 

the leader to a brave new world of 

space travel," the court filing says. 

"But (he) runs his company in 

the Dark Ages -- treating women 

as sexual objects to be evaluated 

on their bra size, bombarding the 

workplace with lewd sexual banter, 

and offering the reprise to those 

who challenge the 'Animal House' 

environment that if they don't 

like it they can seek employment 

elsewhere." The suit charges 

Musk and SpaceX with sexual 

harassment, discrimination, 

retaliation, and wrongful 

termination. "Musk thinks 

he's above the law," plaintiffs' 

attorney Laurie Burgess said in 

a statement. "We look forward to 

holding Musk accountable for his 

actions at trial." The fired workers 

have already filed a complaint with 

the US National Labor Relations 

Board, but that has been stalled 

by a lawsuit by Musk trying to 

derail it. 

India participates in conference on 

humanitarian response for Gaza held in Jordan 

The United Nations, WHO as well as several 

rights organisations have termed the situation 

in Gaza as 'humanitarian catastrophe'. 

Separately, India also participated in the 

Quad Maritime Security Working Group 

meeting in Sydney on June 6-7. MEA Secretary 

(ER) Dammu Ravi represented India at the 

event. 

The group discussed continued cooperation 

to address maritime challenges and identified 

opportunities to deepen engagement as well 

as support regional partners for security and 

prosperity of the region. 

"India participated in the Quad Maritime 

Security Working Group meeting in Sydney 

on June 06-07, 2024. The Group discussed 

continued cooperation to address maritime 

challenges and identified opportunities to 

deepen engagement as well as support 

regional partners for security and prosperity 

of the region," the MEA spokesperson stated 

on X.

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 


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 

SUDOKU 

1; 4c 0 p 

Si> 

E 

A N E 

S 

5lJ R G E b N 

S 

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S 

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Mb N D 0 

A I R 51> L 0 

p A 5 E M 

Your Weekly Horoscope: 14 June - 20 June, 2024 

ARIES (MAR 21-APR 20) 

You will be following where your curiosity 

takes you this week, Aries, with the new 

moon in Gemini. You might be teaching 

yourself a new skill, or you’re spending 

time reading and writing. You might be 

developing a presentation for work or 

practicing your public speaking skills too. 

On another note, you may be taking a quick trip somewhere. 

In addition, you may be cleaning and organising your living 

space to make it feel like your own. 

.TAURUS (APR 21-MAY 20) 

You will be developing projects at work 

this week, Taurus, with the new moon in 

Gemini. You may be putting forth ideas 

at your job, or you could be taking on 

freelance opportunities. You may even be 

considering starting a business of your 

own or expanding your offerings if you’re 

self employed. On another note, you may be spending quite 

a bit of money. As the moon moves into Cancer over the 

weekend, you might be socialising and attending an event. 

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUN 21) 

You will be focused on your own goals 

this week, Gemini, with the new moon in 

your sign. You may be met with exciting 

opportunities, or you could want to explore 

a hobby or return to a past interest that 

you had forgotten. In addition, you could 

receive attention from people, or you may 

want to change up your personal style. 

CANCER (JUN 22-JUL 20) 

You will be taking time to yourself this 

week, Cancer, with the new moon in 

Gemini. Emotions may come up that 

you weren’t expecting, or you could feel 

low energy and need to rest. You may be 

turning to journaling, meditation, yoga or 

even astrology to help you feel connected 

to something bigger than yourself. As the moon moves into 

your sign over the weekend, you could be ready to go out and 

mingle with people again. 

LEO (JUL21-AUG 20) 

You will feel supported by a community of 

people this week, Leo, with the new moon 

in Gemini. You may be connecting with 

friends and attending social events, or 

you could be the one organising a group 

activity and bringing people together. You 

may even receive an opportunity through 

someone you know. As the moon moves into Cancer over 

the weekend, you will need some space to be alone and rest. 

VIRGO (AUG 23-SEP 23) 

You will be making progress in your career 

this week, Virgo, with the new moon 

in Gemini. You might be launching an 

important work project, or you’re taking 

on greater responsibilities within your role. 

You may even be pivoting in a different 

direction with your career interests or 

applying for new job opportunities. As the moon moves into 

Cancer over the weekend, you will have time to socialise and 

attend fun events. 

LIBRA (SEP 24-OCT 23) 

You will be open to having different 

experiences this week, Libra, with the new 

moon in Gemini. You might be preparing to 

travel, or you could want to learn about a 

different culture or niche subject. You will 

be pushing yourself to keep an open mind 

about different opinions and life beliefs as 

well. As the moon moves into Cancer over the weekend, you 

could be reflecting on your long term career goals. 

SCORPIO (OCT 24-NOV 22) 

You will be working on yourself this week, 

Scorpio, with the new moon in Gemini. You 

might want to better understand your own 

motives and behaviours, and you could 

be researching topics related to self help 

or psychology. You may be making a big 

purchase too, or you’re working to save or 

invest some of your money. As the moon moves into Cancer 

over the weekend, you may be travelling. 

SAGITTARIUS (NOV 23-DEC 21) 

You will be building upon your relationships 

this week, Sagittarius, with the new moon 

in Gemini. You may feel closer to your 

partner, or you’re having greater success 

with dating. You could even reach a pivotal 

relationship milestone, or you may be 

meeting up with good friends to hang out. 

As the moon moves into Cancer over the weekend, you may 

want to open up emotionally to people, or you’re reflecting 

on how you can respond to conflict differently. 

CAPRICORN (DEC 22-JAN 21) 

You will be productive at work this week, 

Capricorn, with the new moon in Gemini. A 

job opportunity may come your way, or you 

could be developing various projects. You 

may be taking greater care of your body too, 

by sticking to a regular exercise routine, 

eating healthy, or getting to sleep early. As 

the moon moves into Cancer over the weekend, you may be 

connecting with a good friend or going on a date. 

AQUARIUS (JAN 22-FEB 19) 

You will be having fun and relaxing this 

week, Aquarius, with the new moon in 

Gemini. You may be taking a vacation or 

you could have time outside of work to 

tend to a hobby. You might be seeing your 

friends too, or you could be up for dating or 

going to a fun event. As the moon moves 

into Cancer over the weekend, you may be running errands 

or taking care of work related tasks. 

PISCES (FEB 20-MAR 20) 

You may be sticking close to home this week, 

Pisces, with the new moon in Gemini. You 

could be cleaning your living space, or you 

may be preparing to move in the near future. 

On another note, you could be leaving your 

home to travel, or you’re visiting family. You 

may be a bit nostalgic or emotional though. 

As the moon moves into Cancer over the weekend, you will 

be having fun and mingling with people. You may also be 

leaning into hobbies that bring you joy.


FEATURE 17 

Paneer special recipes 

Paneer is rich in protein and calcium and is the best source of nutrition for vegetarians. Not just that, the 

richness of vitamin B-complex and magnesium can result in a healthy pregnancy and controlled blood 

sugar levels. Leaving aside its nutritious side, you can enjoy paneer as it is with a little salt & pepper. This 

is the easiest way to consume paneer and enjoy its various health benefits. 

Paneer 65 

Ingredients 

• 250 gm paneer 

• 4 tablespoon rice flour 

• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder 

• 1 tablespoon garlic paste 

• 2 tablespoon yoghurt (curd) 

• 1/2 cup water 

• 1 onion 

• 2 green chilli 

• 2 tablespoon tomato ketchup 

• 2 teaspoon lemon juice 

• 2 tablespoon corn flour 

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 

• 1 teaspoon red chilli powder 

• 1 tablespoon ginger paste 

• 1 cup refined oil 

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 

• 1 stalk curry leaves 

• 2 tablespoon red chilli sauce 

• salt as required 

• 1 tablespoon spring onion leaves 

Method 

• In a bowl, add cornflour and rice flour with 1 tsp 

of salt and 1/2 tsp of black pepper and red chilli 

powder, ginger-garlic paste, cumin powder, garam 

masala, 1 tsp of lemon juice. 

• Now, add your paneer to this batter and coat it well. 

Deep fry the coated paneer in a kadhai and keep 

them aside. 

• Heat some oil in a pan and add the cumin seeds 

to it. Now roast the garlic with the cumin seeds 

and add finely chopped onions along with chopped 

curry leaves. To this, add chilli sauce and tomato 

ketchup and salt. Mix it all well on high flame. 

• In the end, add some curd with 2 tbsp of water. Let 

it bubble and turn the flame to low and add the fried 

paneer pieces to this. Coat and combine well, top 

with some lemon juice, garnish with spring onion 

greens and serve hot! 

Cornitos grilled paneer tacos with salsa dip 

Ingredients 

• 6 taco shells 

• 100 ml salsa sauce 

• 150 gm cheese sauce 

• 50 gm lettuce leaf 

• 50 ml virgin olive oil 

• 5 gm white pepper powder 


• 50 gm capsicum (green pepper) 

• 50 gm jalapeno 

• 50 gm coriander leaves 


• 1/2 teaspoon taco seasoning 

Method 

• Marinate paneer with salt, white pepper powder, 

olive oil & keep aside for 10-15 minutes. 

• Heat the griller with some oil and grill the Paneer 

until done. 

• Heat some oil in a pan, add taco seasoning, and 

then add capsicum and onions. Sauté nicely for 3 

to 5 minutes, then remove from heat. 

Kung pao paneer 

Ingredients 

• 1 1/2 tablespoon corn flour 

• 2 dry red chili 

• 1 medium chopped capsicum (green 

pepper) 

• 1 handful chopped spring onions 

• 1/4 cup crushed peanuts 

• gm salt 

• water as required 

• 1 1/2 tablespoon red chilli sauce 

• 2 tablespoon vegetable oil 

• 1 1/2 teaspoon chopped garlic 

• 1 medium thinly sliced onion 

• 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce 


• gm black pepper 

Method 

• In a bowl, add paneer cubes along with 

chili powder, salt, pepper, and 1 tbsp 

cornflour. Mix everything well. 

• Heat oil in a pan and then add paneer 

cubes. Shallow fry them till they turn 

golden brown in color. Once done, 

transfer them to an absorbent paper. 

Now, saute garlic on the same pan. 

• Now, add onions and red chillies. Saute 

• Place Taco shells on boat and line them with 

lettuce. Top them with grilled paneer and sauteed 

mixture, coriander leaves and jalapeno. 

• Then, spread cheese sauce and salsa dip evenly on 

top and sprinkle taco seasoning. Serve Tacos with 

salsa dip. 

them until the onions turn translucent. 

Next, add capsicum. and saute it for 

2 mins. Once done, add chili sauce, 

peanuts, soy sauce, and 1 tbsp cornflour 

(mix 1/2 tablespoon of cornflour in 1 

tablespoon of water). Mix to combine 

everything well. Cook for 3 mins. 

• Finally, add fried paneer cubes along 

with salt. Mix everything well and cook 

for about 1-2 mins. 

• Garnish it with spring onions. Your Kung 

Pao Paneer is ready. Enjoy. 

Paneer veg rolls 

Ingredients 

9 chapatis 

• 1 1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder 

• 18 leaves coriander leaves 


• water as required 

• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 

• 3 teaspoon dry mango powder 

• 3 tablespoon vegetable oil 

• 2 cup flour 

• For Filling 


• 3 onion 

• 2 capsicum (green pepper) 

Method 

• In a large pan, heat oil over a 

medium flame. Add chopped 

onions to it and stir fry them till 

it turns golden brown. Now, add 

capsicums, chopped paneer 

cubes and saute for sometime. 

• After sometime, add cumin 

powder, salt and red chili 

powder to it. Mix well. After a 

minute add dry mango powder, 

coriander leaves and stir the 

whole mixture again properly. 

Switch off the flame and keep it 

aside. 

Palak kaddu paneer 

Ingredients 

• 4 cup spinach 

• 4 tablespoon refined oil 

• 2 tablespoon garlic 

• 1 cup milk 


• 200 gm pumpkin 

• 2 teaspoon garam masala 

powder 

• 4 pieces green chillies 

• 2 medium onion 

• 1/2 kilograms paneer 

Method 

• To begin with, in a bowl, add 

water and ice cubes. Over 

medium flame, place a sauce 

pan and boil water in it. Now 

add washed spinach leaves 

in it. Once the spinach leaves 

have boiled, drain the water 

and transfer spinach into the 

cold water bowl. Meanwhile, 

chopped pumpkin and paneer 

into cubes. Chop spinach 

leaves, garlic cloves, and onion 

too. 

• In a blender, add pumpkin 

cubes, chopped spinach leaves, 

milk and blend it to a fine puree. 

Coriander paneer 

Ingredients 


• 1 onion 

• 1 tablespoon ginger 


• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 

• 2 tablespoon refined oil 

• 1 bunch coriander leaves 

• 2 green chilli 

• 2 cloves garlic 

• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder 

• 1 teaspoon powdered turmeric 

• 2 teaspoon lemon juice 

Method 

• To prepare this delicious side dish recipe, 

dice the paneer into cubes and transfer the 

pieces into a large bowl. 

• Add the red chilli powder, coriander 

powder, garam masala powder, salt and 

lemon juice to the paneer cubes and coat 

them evenly. Keep aside for a while. 

• Meanwhile, take the coriander leaves and 

wash them properly. Chop them roughly 

and add them to a food processor along 

with the green chillies and a little water. 

Blend into a smooth paste. 

• Now knead the flour using 

water and make 8 chapatis out 

of it. One by one, start filling 

the mixture prepared in the pan 

above in between the chapatis 

and start rolling it tightly from 

the sides. Your Paneer veg rolls 

are now ready to be served. 

Over medium flame, place a 

pan and add 1 teaspoon of oil 

in it. Now add paneer cubes 

in the pan and fry them. Once 

fried, transfer paneer into a 

bowl and keep aside. Saute 

chopped garlic and onion in the 

remaining oil that's left in the 

pan. 

• Next, add the pumpkin puree. 

Pour 1 cup of water and season 

it with salt. Let the gravy cook 

for 3-4 minutes. Add fried 

paneer cubes, and stir once. Mix 

in garam masala. Let it simmer 

until a thick gravy is formed. 

• Serve hot with tandoori roti or 

naan! 

• Heat oil in a pan over medium flame. Then, 

add ginger-garlic paste and saute them. 

Now, add the onions and cook them until 

they turn light brown. 

• Once done, add the coriander paste 

and let it cook for a while. Sprinkle the 

remaining spices and salt as per your 

taste. Remember the paneer is already 

marinated with some spices. Don't add 

too much. 

• Then, add the marinated paneer cubes and 

cook for a few minutes. Transfer the dish 

to a serving bowl and serve hot.

18 

ENTERTAINMENT 

Kartik Aaryan 

reveals the one thing 

Ranbir took away from 

him, and no it's not a film 

Quite a few celebrities Ka Punchnama 2 (2015) epic cameo in the film 

in the Hindi film and Sonu Ke Titu Ki 

that took the internet 

industry have reached Sweety (2018). That is, of by storm and was 

heights of success because 

of their skills or connections. 

But one actor who has made 

a permanent place in hearts 

as ‘janta ka superstar’ with 

his talent, screen presence 

and relatability, is Kartik 

Aaryan. 

Currently, he is one of the 

most bankable stars of the 

country with several super 

hits in his filmography and 

two of the most awaited 

projects of Bollywood in his 

line-up. 

But during the promotions 

of his next release Chandu 

Champion, Kartik revealed 

course, until Luv’s 2023 

film Tu Jhoothi Main 

Makkaar. This time, the 

filmmaker joined forces with 

Ranbir instead. 

Now in a recent rapidfire 

session with Zoom, 

Kartik was asked to share a 

specific quality of Ranbir. 

The Chandu 

Champion actor was quick 

to reply, “I think woh toh 

mera director le gaya 

tha naa us time! Apne 

director bacha ke rakho 

(I think he had taken 

my director away at 

that time! Keep your 

loved by all. At 

that moment, it 

felt as though it 

was Kartik’s world 

and we were just 

living in it. 

one thing his fellow director safe.)” Well, 

actor Ranbir Kapoor took 

away from him. 

As we all know, it was 

filmmaker Luv Ranjan 

who gave Kartik his first 

break with the 2011 

buddy comedy Pyaar Ka 

Punchnama. 

The film was the first of 

Ranbir played the lead 

role but Kartik was 

also a memorable 

part of Tu Jhoothi 

Main Makkaar. 

He joined 

Luv, Ranbir 

and Shraddha 

Kapoor for an 

its kind and emerged as 

a sleeper hit, much to the “I think woh toh mera director le gaya tha naa 

delight of the debut actor 

us time! Apne director bacha ke rakho (I think 

and first-time director. 

The dynamic duo went he had taken my director away at that time! 

on to give one blockbuster Keep your director safe.)” 

hit after another with 

movies such as Pyaar 



Fardeen Khan recalls Kareena Kapoor recommended him for 

Dev as film clocks 20 years: ‘Will always be grateful to her’ 

Fardeen Khan keeps sharing 

throwback updates for his 

fans on social media. The 

actor recently penned a gratitude 

note as Govind Nihalani's Dev 

completed 20 years. 

Fardeen revealed that his 

co-star Kareena Kapoor had 

recommended him for 

the Amitabh Bachchan-starrer 

political action-drama. 

Fardeen Khan praises Govind 

Nihalani's storytelling 

The Heeramandi actor took 

to his Instagram handle and 

shared a reel where his character 

Farhan Ali is seen saying intense 

dialogues about religion and 

communal divide. 

In the video, glimpses of 

Kareena, Amitabh, and late actor 

Om Puri amid gunshots and 

blasts are depicted. 

Fardeen captioned his post 

as, “It was my third film with @ 

kareenakapoorkhan and it was 

she who recommended me for the 

role, and I will always be grateful 

to her for that. 

Being signed by the respected 

Govind Nihalani for a film with 

legends like @amitabhbachchan 

and Om Puri was a huge 

endorsement for any actor. 

"Govindji was highly respected 

and was known for his 

careful direction and powerful 

storytelling.” 

He further wrote, “This role gave 

me the chance to work on a film 

that was relevant and meaningful, 

"It was a once-in-alifetime 

opportunity, 

a true honour and an 

absolute privilege to 

work with him, making 

it one of the highlights 

of my career.” Fardeen 

Panchayat's Pankaj Jha says 

Bollywood took too long to 

recognise Irrfan Khan 

Pankaj Jha has portrayed a wide 

range of characters in films, 

television, and web shows. In 

a recent interview with The Indian 

Express, the actor criticised Bollywood 

for being too late in recognising Irrfan 

Khan's talent. 

Pankaj, while praising Irrfan's acting 

opined, “I believe actors should refrain 

themselves from watching films. What 

happens is they start to mimic it. 

Today, I feel every actor is mimicking 

someone. There was only one actor 

in the industry who was real, that was 

Irrfan Khan. He has set a benchmark 

for actors and everybody is trying to 

reach that benchmark but it is not easy 

to reach.” 

He further said, “We should question 

the industry why it takes them so 

much time to recognise true talents 

like Irrfan Khan.” When Pankaj Jha 

spoke against glamourising struggle 

Previously, in an interview with 

Lallantop Cinema, Pankaj had accused 

Pankaj Tripathi of glamourising 

‘struggle.’ The Panchayat actor stated, 

In an exclusive interview, Mr & Mrs 

Mahi director Sharan Sharma 

discusses the various influences 

that shaped his film, from movies, 

cricketers to Janhvi Kapoor. 

Sharan Sharma's sophomore 

directorial, Mr & Mrs Mahi, is spiritually 

similar to its chart-topping romantic 

track, Dekha Tenu. Music composer 

Jaani takes a popular line from Aadesh 

Shrivastava's Say “Shava Shava” from 

Karan Johar's 2001 blockbuster Kabhi 

Khushi Kabhie Gham and expands it 

into a completely fresh song. Similarly, 

Sharan has clubbed all the influences 

which was rare at the time. But 

the greatest take away for me 

from DEV was getting "to share 

the screen with Amitji, an actor I 

idolized. 

His life and most amazing 

career have had a profound 

influence on Indian cinema and 

has left an indelible mark on not 

“I don’t like the word ‘struggle’. If 

you’ve chosen to follow your passion, 

you should enjoy it, shouldn’t you? 

And as we’ve seen often in the 

industry, people like to glamourise 

their struggles. 

Some people say they sold potatoes, 

others say they lived in a tiny house, 

some say they stole another actor’s 

slippers. I feel every situation is a 

learning experience.” 

Mr & Mrs Mahi director reveals what 

influenced his film: Navjot Singh Sidhu, 

Vodafone pug, and a lost Janhvi Kapoor 

behind his cricket-based relationship 

drama to make a distinctly original 

film. Sharan speaks to us about the 

various influences that helped him and 

co-writer Nikhil Mehrotra shape Mr & 

Mrs Mahi: Sharan's 2020 directorial 

debut, Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl, 

released on Netflix India, revolved 

around one of the first women Indian 

Air Force pilots (Janhvi Kapoor) to fly 

in the combat zone during the Kargil 

War. While her brother (Angad Bedi), a 

Lieutenant Colonel, didn't expect her 

to make the cut, her father (Pankaj 

Tripathi) gave her wings to fly. 

just me but on every Indian. 

It was a once-in-a-lifetime 

opportunity, a true honour and 

an absolute privilege to work 

with him, making it one of the 

highlights of my career.” 

Fardeen and Kareena were also 

paired opposite each other in Fida 

which released in the same year 

after Dev. 

The duo acted in three films 

together including Khushi (2003). 

Fardeen was recently seen 

in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 

Heeramandi as Nawab Wali Bin 

Zayed-Al Mohammed. 

The show was Fardeen's 

acting comeback after an almost 

14-year-gap. 

The epic drama series 

also featured Manisha 

Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi 

Rao Hydari, Sharmin Segal, Richa 

Chadha, Shekhar Suman and 

Adhyayan Suman in crucial roles. 

Fardeen will be next seen in 

Visfot, produced by Sanjay Gupta. 

He will also featrure in Mudassar 

Aziz's Khel Khel Mein featuring 

Akshay Kumar, Taapsee Pannu, 

Vaani Kapoor, Ammy Virk, Aditya 

Seal and others.

For all your digital and print advertising requirements, 

call us on 020 441 2233 / 0223078920 Or email at 

sales@indianweekender.co.nz / ravi@indianweekender.co.nz

The Indian Weekender | 14 June 2024

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