Duncan Pegg MP – Member for Stretton

APPLICATIONS for the Celebrating Multicultural Queensland grants program are now open and I encourage all local community organisations to apply. These grants, of up to $25,000, are available to local community groups and other organisations for projects that contribute to Queensland’s great multicultural success story. There is a total of $300 000 in project funding up for grabs.

Since being elected as the Member for Stretton, I have had the pleasure of meeting many local multicultural leaders from many different groups. I know the great work that these organisations do in our local area. That is why I am keen to see local groups get funding for their cultural and social projects that celebrate and promote Queensland multiculturalism.

Applications close on 3^rd February 2017, with the grants to be delivered from July 2017.

For more information or to apply for a grant please contact my office or visit:  www.communities.qld.gov.au/multicultural 

By Mala Dhanasekar

ALL across the world, special occasions are celebrated. These events and festivities stem from religious and ancient traditions and they are always associated with joy, making these occasions significant, educational and something that gets passed down through generations.

One tradition has been around since the ancient times and is globally celebrated and it is the harvest festival called Pongal. This term derives from the tradition of worshiping “The Sun”. This can been seen ranging from Aztec mythology to African traditions as well as throughout many different religions such as Buddhism, Christianity and of course, Hinduism. While the concept of these festivals are generally the same but the traditions on how they celebrate these festivities tend to vary.

The Thai Pongal festival is celebrated on the 14th January. It is one of the most important festivals for Tamil people, as it also symbolizes the Tamil New Year. The main aim of the festival is to convey an appreciation and show respect towards “The Sun” for various reasons, such as providing a life source for the agriculture.

Pongal festival runs for four days; Bhogi Pongal being the first day where people worship by using the first paddy harvested rice to create a traditional dish called Pongal, as named after the festival. The second day is called Perum Pongal (Thai Pongal) when people wear new clothes and it’s customary to use some oil on your body before taking a bath. The third day is called Mattu Pongal where animals involved in agriculture such as cattle are worshiped by being bathed and dressed in vibrant colours and festive attire. The fourth and final day is called Kanum Pongal where people pay a visit to their family and friends, while a prayer is performed by women and some rice is left outside for the birds to feast on.

As Pongal is fast approaching and Christmas having just passed, it’s important to remember that though we all celebrate different traditions, we all celebrate for the same reasons that, the epitome of festivals is always to show respect for one another, bring together family, friends and faith as well as to appreciate the importance of where you come from and what that land and those traditions have to offer.

The Thaai Tamil School will be proudly hosting the annual Pongal festival for 2017. The event details are as follows:

Date: 21 January 2017

Venue: Robelle Domain Park, Springfield Central

Time: 3pm – 9pm

Cost: Free entry

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The day will consist of both children and adult activities as well as food stalls being available between 3pm and 6pm. Some of the activities which will be held include a Kolam competition, a demonstration of Silambam, Martial Arts as well as dances, magic shows, face painting and fireworks.

A big thank you to the Competitive Queensland Multicultural grant, Media supporters, local community organisations and community volunteers for helping to make this event possible.

Mr Peter Russo Member of Parliament, Sunnybank is the ambassador for this Pongal Festival and we have an anticipated 3000+ attendance of both Tamil and non-Tamil community members from all around Brisbane.

We would like to invite political leaders and community leaders to attend the event to show their support. Anyone who is interested in becoming a sponsor or anyone who is interested in hosting a stall, please contact Mr Mugunth Subramaniam on 0423730122.

Updated information regarding the event is available on the Facebook page “Pongal festival Queensland 2017. Event page: https://facebook.com/events/1163953357022877. Please check this out for further details.

By Sarat Maharaj

Since 2002, International Congress for Fiji Inc ( ICFI ) has been providing for school fees to needy students in years 11, 12, & 13, vocational level, and diploma level of their education. Up till end of 2014, ICFI had funded 12,500 high school students in the amount of $865,000. As part of the election policy, the Fiji government decided to pay for tuition fees to all high school students.

Since then, ICFI has been concentrating on assisting vocational training and diploma level students who were not part of the Ethnic Scholarship Program nor did they qualify for a Loan Scheme offered by the government. Students who cannot even afford a lunch, how could they possibly qualify for a loan? But, these students are hungry for knowledge, and ICFI is a willing provider of tuition fees for them.

There have been many success stories of such students who have made worthwhile the investment made by members and supporters of International Congress for Fiji Inc. Here, I would like to share with you readers a couple of cases where it is very apparent that had it not been for funding organisations the likes of ICFI, these students would fall through the cracks, with absolutely no hope and no future.

For privacy reasons, I will suppress the identity of the students and others for obvious reasons. In the first case, this female student’s brother had been studying on a scholarship. The mother got sick and was admitted in hospital for a long time. The father had a stroke. So, there was no income for the family. They became homeless, as they could not pay rent. The brother deferred his scholarship and returned home in Labasa to find work. His meagre income just barely met household expenses.

Here is an extract of e-mail this girl wrote to ICFI recently: “Dear Sir, I am (name suppressed) student of Fiji National university would like thank you and your organization for helping me in paying my fees for trimester 2. Sir I am the person whom you interviewed on Saturday at around 3pm. Sir I would like to thank you for paying my fees for last trimester 2. I am very grateful to you and I was able to do my exam and pass with good grades. Sir I would like to thank you for every help that you provided to me. Sir below is my result and invoice for this trimester 3 and would be grateful for hear your reply soon. Yours faithfully”

Yes, the exam results were good, therefore ICFI approved payment of fees for trimester 3. Once this girl graduates with Accounting & Economics, she most certainly will get a reasonably good-paying job. Then, she will not only manage the household expenses, but also allow her brother to complete his studies.

In the second case, a widowed mother worked as a house maid to educate her son. But, the income was hardly enough to provide for food and shelter for the family, leave alone providing for education for her son. ICFI Board decided to help this bright but financially very poor young man. He had achieved good marks in high school which landed him an apprenticeship in aircraft engineering. Fees for his tertiary courses were much higher than that of a vocational training student. Because this student had progressively excelled with good grades, ICFI again decided to support him to the very end of his aircraft engineering career. The good news is that earlier this year, he completed his studies and secured a permanent position with Fiji Airways. Here is his e-mail to ICFI Secretary:

Bula sir, Hope you are well. I am good and there has not been any major damage during the cyclone. I have recently passed my third AMC Compass exam. Still waiting for vacancies to come out…will inform you of any updates…Find attached copy of my result. Have a nice day. Vinaka. (Vinaka means Thank you).

Followed by this e-mail: I am happy to tell you that I got the job as AME at Fiji Airways. The results just came out on Wednesday, 3 months after the interview. This couldn’t have been possible without your support. Vinaka.  

Now, these are only two of the many success stories! In Fiji, there are still thousands of cases, such as these, where students are struggling to finish a crucial stage of their education. They need our little help to get them across the line, and to start earning a living. Should you wish to participate in this noble course, you can contact myself on regmaharaj@gmail.com or any member of International Congress for Fiji Incorporated.

KHETRI, Rajasthan; The Eight annual Meena Ram Saini memorial function was held in Khetri Rajasthan from 30 Dec till 1^st Jan. The Cricket match began on 30^th December at the historic polo grounds of Khetri, Umesh Chandra inaugurated the tournament by cutting the ribbon and opening bat. The final match was played on 31^st December, Umesh Chandra presented the trophies to the winning team and the man of the match at the presentation ceremony. Usha Chandra presented special gifts to the players of the two teams who made it to the finals. This annual tournament is much looked forward to by everyone in Khetri.

The eighth annual Kavi Samellan (Poet Fest) in memory of Late Mr Meena Ram Saini, Umesh Chandra grandfather was held on first January 2017. Being a Sunday and public holiday people turned out in very large numbers to this annual function. According to the organising committee this was the largest turnout ever. The function was inaugurated by Respected Swami Ji of Ram Krishna Mission of Khetri. Umesh Chandra was given a Safa (Rajasthani Turban) as a sign of high respect. Usha Chandra was given a shawl of honour.

Poet Harish Hindustani presided over the proceedings, he has been doing this from the very first Kavi Samellan. The poets covered different topics including Comedy, Patriotism, Current affairs, and Romance. The poets and the topics were so interesting that not a single person left the venue till the end. Every year everyone eagerly awaits Umesh Chandra’s final speech, which he delivers in Hindi, this year inspired by the poets Umesh too made a small poem which was applauded by everyone. The poetry related to his heath condition despite which he there for the event.

The annual event is always funded by Umesh and Usha Chandra, their uncle Ram Jattan of London has partly contributed previously. The Organising committee consists of Dinesh Ram Saini, Gopal Ram Saini, Gopal Sharma (Patrakar), Keshav Saini and other volunteers. The event is well covered by local media and is attended by many government officials, politicians, police and local community leaders.

By Sarat Maharaj

Happy New Year to Everyone.

Hindustani Language and Culture School enters into its 25thh year of service in Brisbane. Yes, it is a proud moment for everyone associated with supporting to maintain our identity and heritage in Australia.

In the past recent years, many young parents have come into Queensland, and are settling down slowly. As part of the Access & Equity program for Health, Mainstream Education, Transport, etc, it is important to look at other needs of your children who will be growing in the Australian environment.

In the past 24 years, our school has seen many parents take full advantage of learning our mother tongue Hindi. For the convenience of parents and students, we have established two centres at Calamvale Community College, 11 Hamish St, Calamvale on South side, and Boondall State School, Roscommon Rd, Boondall on the North side.

In 2017, classes will commence on Saturday 28 January. Enrolments have already begun. All lessons are conducted under an approved curriculum by Education Queensland. Students wishing to take a language as a subject in mainstream school, can use Hindi as their language subject credit, if they have completed 80% attendance at Hindustani Language and Culture School. This is a fantastic arrangement.

For more information, please e-mail: hindischool_qld@outlook.com.

7pm – 8:30pm at Gayatri Mandir, 178 Lyndhurst Rd, Boondall. Dinner Provided daily.

Pooja & Parwachan by Acharya Pt Ajay Tiwari Ji.

Originally from Varnasi, India. Archarya in Vykaran & Mimansa from Sampurana Sandirit University, Varnasi, India. M.A. In Sanskrit from Stephon’s College, University of Delhi. Specilization in Astrology.

Website / Facebook

6pm onwards, but Temple will be open all day.

Everyone is invited to please come along – Aur charo Nishit Kal ka phal prapt kijiye

• Bhajans
• Kirtans
• Prawachan
• Vrat Phalahari Prasadam will be provided
• We will provide all necessary pooja samagri like Bel Patra,
  Rudrax, Milk, Panch Jal, Panch Gabbya and Chandan etc for free
• Food sponsor $400

For sponsors, donations or any queries please contact

• Devika Maharaj 0424891159
• Dhiru 0406213153
• Bharat Solanki 041131485
• Rajesh Gopal 0422344046
• Joga Rao 0448599791 or Jyoti Womens Club Inc

For secured online donation facility visit www.shreevishnumayamandir.com.au

Bollywood DJ

Dj Desi is one of the most versatile and well known Indian Dj, with over 10 years’ experience in the entertainment industry. He is primarily based in Brisbane and performs at many private functions and clubs all over Australia playing the best of Bollywood and Bhangra music together with RnB, Hip Hop, Retro (70’s & 80’s) and Top 50.

Dj Desi has performed with Panjabi MC, Bally Sagoo, RDB, Sukhbir, Aiysha, Stereo Nation, Punjabi Hit Squad, Dj Suketu and Dj Aqeel on their tours down under (Australia). Dj Desi has played in Clubs of Mumbai (India), the World Music Festival (Fiji), River Festival (Brisbane), Q150 celebrations – Bollywood themed events, Indian Film Festival (Qld Australia), the Sikh …Games and the GAQ Garba events that is attend by over 2000 people.

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R&B/ Hip Hop DJ

DJ Melody Sky is a young, dynamic and talented female DJ from Tokyo, Japan and is now residing in Brisbane, Australia. She has been playing in Brisbane and Gold Coast for the last 2 years and is now known as the best Asian female DJ in town and is a resident DJ for the biggest clubs in town.

She is professional DJ that will have your club dancing and jumping to her energetic style of music. She plays a wide range of music to suit the crowds’ tastes, spinning anything from the latest R&B, Hip Hop, Electro, House and Commercial Top 40. She commits herself to entertaining and satisfying the needs of the clubbers bringing people together and boosting the energy in the room. Her experience has allowed her to learn all the tools and tricks of the world’s best DJs.

Mixcloud : https://www.mixcloud.com/djmelodysky
Instagram : http://instagram.com/djmelodysky
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/djmelodysky

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Tickets:
$12 Online tickets available at:
https://bollywoodrnbdanceparty.eventbrite.com.au/

Tickets at the door:
General $20 and Couples $30
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Dress code: Red and Black

Entry: Fly Hi Production, Desi Entertainment Services and Rumba Bar have the right to refuse entry if patron is intoxicated or due to bad behaviour.

This is an 18+ event : Please bring your Passport or Driver’s license to the event.
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Proudly organised by Fly Hi Production & Desi Entertainment Services Pty Ltd

Exclusive media partner : Brisbane Indian Times and Australian Indian Radio

Event Sponsor: Salt n Spice Supermarket (7 / 109 Grand Plaza Drive, Brown Plains, Brisbane Queensland)

Indian New Year Celebrations

“A musical, cultural & devotional event”

3:30pm to 7pm at QMC Hall, 102 Main St, Kangaroo Point Qld 4169

For Tickets, Sponsorship & Inquiries contact

• Sanjiv 0431383002
• Harry 0430877001
• Manpreet 0432125789

www.djjs.org

Multicultural New Year Celebrations!!!

Held at St. John’s Anglican College, College Ave, Forest Lake

To participate email varnamqld@gmail.com

Australia’s largest Ayurveda Centre run by team of experienced Ayurvedic Doctors and therapists – ‘Brisbane & Gold Coast’

Vibrant Ayurveda Wellness centre is organising a free OPEN DAY to celebrates it’s 9^th anniversary on 4th of March 2017. The aim of this free day is to provide opportunities for general population so that they can get a good exposure to this time tested Indian traditional healing system. On the day, the team of experienced Ayurvedic doctors will provide free consultations and therapists will provide free mini massages. Also, there will be free snack food and Ayurvedic tea served throughout the day and all the products and services will be in a huge sale.

Click here for full event details

Contact us for more details: 43 Vulture Street, West End, QLD- 4101 / Ph: 0738462272, 0452506389 / www.vibrantayurveda.com.au

Tapori, also known as rowdy in Hindi, is the name of group of street thugs in Mumbai. They are notorious largely due to their mischievous style. Their have unique style of dressing and dance and are often featured in Bollywood as comic relief. Bollywood songs like Gandi Baat, Saree Ke Fall Sa, Go Go Govinda exemplify the Tapori style.

Tapori has no rules. It is generally performed at occasions of Ganesh Chaturthi and weddings. Tapori is such an uplifting style – you dance your heart out with free abandon. It is entirely unique and can’t be compared to the refinement of classical Indian dance, or folk dances.

Dance Masala is excited to present a one-off Tapori workshop (beginner and intermediate level) at their studio space in West End. Aditya Pankhaniya, an experienced instructor skilled in Bollywood, Tapori, and Garba, will guide these workshops. Tapori is by far Aditya’s favourite style of dance and he cannot wait to share it with everyone. Aditya says, ‘Tapori is always used to express happiness and truly knows no boundaries’. We have strictly limited places available. Booking is essential! Dance Masala hopes you will join them at this workshop on Sunday the 26^th of February.

Workshop Details

Date:  Sunday 26^th of February 2017

Times: Beginner 10am – 11am / Intermediate (1 year’s experience +) 11am – 12pm

Where: 349 Montague Rd, West End

Cost: $15.00 per session

What to bring: Water bottle and towel, you will get sweaty

What to wear: Though tapori is typically done in jeans, we recommend leggings or shorts because it’s summer in Brisbane and it will get hot!

Register: email hello@dancemasala.com.au ; visit http://dancemasala.com.au/special-workshops ; or message us on Facebook http://facebook.com/dancemasala

‘It’s an oasis and perfectly placed.”  That’s the view of Brookwater’s latest arrivals the Balans who have decided that the life style on offer at Queensland’s most talked about golf course community is by far better a better option than they were able to get in Sydney.

The family of four have just moved into their dream home and say the choice to move north was an obvious one that could not be resisted. “The moment you enter the Brookwater community, the first thing you notice is how green and well maintained it is compared to other places, it is like driving to an oasis, said Rikesh Balan. “You look around and you see either golf course, bushlands, parks or mountains.”

The Balans have settled on a home they were able to design bespoke to their young and energetic family where according to Anju, having plenty of room really matters. “We were actually looking for a land in excess of 600sqm. We did go around a few land releases when one of the sales agents in Metricon asked us to take a look at Brookwater.” she said.

As a registered nurse Anju has found employment at the local Mater private hospital. In 2015, Mater opened stage one of a council approved 1200 bed facility. The state-of-the art hospital has plans to grow with the population already tipping 34,000.

Brookwater is located in Queensland’s fastest emerging new city of Greater Springfield which is master planned around interactive pillars of health, education and information technology. Rikesh is working as an IT professional in a superannuation company and makes the most of the Springfield rail line each day.

The fact that Brookwater with access to 15 private and public schools, a university, TAFE and numerous boutique learning institutions is a destination for comprehensive education was also a drawcard. The children can go to school within minutes of the family home. “Yes, our son goes to St. Peters Lutheran in Springfield and our daughter goes to Kindypatch.”

Brookwater buyers have access to the prestige development’s in-house architectural services and expertise which promises the latest ideas in comfort living and how to take full advantage of the lush and picturesque landscape.

In late 2016, a limited new series of fashionable golf course frontage home sites were placed on the market.  Local marketer Ben Brotherton says they offer exceptional value and begin at $310,000. For more information visit www.brookwater.com.au

IT is important to sort out your financial affairs and protect your assets well and truly before your wedding day.
A pre-nuptial agreement, now known as a Financial Agreement, is an agreement between two people that sets out how, in the event of the breakdown of the marriage, property or financial resources are dealt with. It can also set out maintenance terms during the marriage and after separation.
This may be a difficult topic to discuss with our fiancé, so here are some tips from Cornerstone Law Offices to make it easier.
1. Make it a conversation
Make sure you approach the discussion as a conversation rather than as a list of demands: “Let’s talk about getting a prenup” or “How do you feel about getting a pre-nup to protect both of us?” is far more constructive than “We need to get a prenup”.
2. Be upfront about your reasons and concerns
If financial independence is important to you or you are worried about being financially disadvantaged if the marriage does not last, then a pre-nup discussion is the time to raise such issues.
3. Cover all your bases together
Talking about a pre-nup is a great opportunity to discuss your financial expectations and make sure you have a shared approach. Once your pre-nup is signed, take the time to review it every couple of years and when significant events occur in the marriage such as the birth of a child, or the purchase or sale of
a significant asset.
4. Take your time
You don’t have to agree on the terms of your pre-nup in one sitting. Give yourself time to take breathers if you need to and consider seeking independent legal advice.
5. Leave room for change over time
You and your partner may go into business together or one of you might stop work for a time to look after your children. Remember to create an agreement that is sensitive to different outcomes.

For more information Phone: 5538 9119 or Email: prav@cornerstonelawoffices.com.au / www.cornerstonelawoffices.com.au

HINDU Society of Queensland celebrated its anniversary on 26^th January, the property was bought in 1991 and the official opening was in 1992. The committee at that time had decided to have the official opening on 26^th January as it would always be a public holiday.

HSQ Anniversary

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Current President Daven Pathik and his committee invited past Presidents and general members to attend the anniversary function at Gayatri Mandir, 178 Lyndhurst Road Boondall. The program began at 4pm with Pooja and Bhajans. The pooja was conducted by Pundit Suresh Shandil, Pundit Sanat Pandey was also in attendance.

Vice President and public relations officer; Prem Chand, asked Umesh Chandra to give a brief background on the history of Hindu Society of Queensland, Umesh Chandra explained the formation of the society according to his recollection the gist of which is as follows: Umesh and Usha Chandra used to live at 139 Lyndhurst Road Boondall, their first home in Australia, the property at 178 Lyndhurst Road was an deserted Anglican Church, Umesh recalled the overgrown grass at the property, then one day a for sale by auction sign went up.

Meanwhile Terbert Dutta family who have been pioneers of Indian community in Brisbane had been looking for a temple for Indian community. Aunty Mrs Gayatri Devi Dutta was very desirous of a place for our community. Terbert Dutta had previously seen other locations, but the community did not come together which resulted in lost opportunity. Terbert Dutta has been a long term Property investor, is well versed with property values and the investment mechanism, including re development process. On the auction date Terbert Dutta was the highest bidder and a successful sale resulted, it was after that that community involvement was sought, an impromptu meeting was held at Umesh Chandra residence down the road.

The renovation work began at 178 Lyndhurst Road Boondall, a temporary stage area was erected by volunteers and Umesh Chandra’s workmen, Umesh Chandra used to run a construction company “Villatel Constructions” at that time. Suresh Chandra assisted with plans for the works under the building, which included removing the stumps and opening up the area, concreting the floor etc.

While all this was happening the Society was incorporated, Pramesh Chand assisted Terbert Dutta in getting the formalities of registration and constitution completed. The name Hindu Society of Queensland was chosen after much deliberation, HSQ was to be the master body of Hindus in Queensland, and the society was to have separate wings which were to include religious, social, educational, sporting and other divisions. One such division would be this temple and now it had to given a name, once again after much deliberation the Name Gayatri Mandir was chosen, this reflected the contributions and vision of Aunty Gayatri Devi and also Goddess Gayatri Ma.

For the official opening late Pundit Salik Ram Sharma of Ba Fiji was called, arranged by Umesh and Usha Chandra, Pundit Ji stayed at Umesh and Usha Chandra residence. The first committee had the task of getting HSQ registered and recognised by all levels of government, soon we got main road department to put directional signs to the temple and UBD (street directories) to include Gayatri Mandir as a listing. Hindu Society of Queensland now started getting invites to a lot of government functions etc, and they were happy as before the inception of HSQ they were not sure of whom to contact for Hindu affairs.

The property was paid off in two years with strong community support, at major functions extra lean to structures had to be put up to accommodate the large number of people that used to come.

The society launched the annual public celebration of Diwali on a spiritual and religious basis, this became their signature event from Acacia Ridge School Hall, to Dunn Road Rocklea than to RNA show grounds etc the annual function remains the signature event.

Hindu Society invested in another piece of land in Bracken Ridge, this has been paid off now and puts HSQ in a strong financially secure position. Plans are for a new temple and community hall to be built at the new site.

Umesh Chandra said his community work in Brisbane began from the temple, as they were living a few doors down from the temple he introduced a weekly prayer meeting on Tuesday nights, this has continued till today, one of the reasons initially for Tuesday night prayers was to allow devotees to visit the temple Pooja and Darshan at a fixed time.

GOLD Coast Hindu Cultural Association (GCHCA) in the New Year had their first public consultation meeting on 20th January 2017 in Helensvale Community centre in Gold Coast. More than hundred devotees and well-wishers from the Hindu community in South East Queensland participated in the meeting with enthusiasm.
The purpose of meeting was to inform the wider community regarding the Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Precinct building work and its progress as well as to and consult with the wider community on our proposal and strategies for fund raising towards meeting the Association’s objectives.
The night began by monthly community bhajan and prayers. Following the bhajan dinner was served. Public Consultation meeting started at 815pm. Dr G Subakumar, President of GCHCA addressed the gathering and informed them the land for the temple construction is ready and final building certifier approval is pending. He expected the final paperwork will be ready in 1-2months time. He informed the project budget proposal as follows:
Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Precinct Proposed Budget:
Stage 1 – Multipurpose Hall $1,423,000
Stage 2 – Community Square $30,000
Stage 3 – Caretaker Residence $284,000
Stage 4 – Cultural Centre $3,159,000
Stage 5 – Architectural Features of MPH $542,000
External Works $329,000
Site Works and Landscaping $148,000
Preliminaries $474,000
Margin $178,000
Design Contingency $592,000
• Total Cost for the Precinct: $ 8.4 m
• Stage 1 & 2: $2.4 m
He proposed following fund raising strategies: Membership drive, 1000 dollar donation from families, Regular monthly contribution, Devotees sponsoring a shrine, State and Federal Government Grants and Philanthropists/Businesses donation.
The President also opened the Shrine sponsorship to devotees. It is expected many devotees in Australia and throughout the world are eager to do the deity sponsorship to construct the shrine and establish the deity in the Gold Coast temple. It is believed among Hindus that building a temple deity will give them and their families for generation with prosperous. It is also noted such opportunities are rare to come and the sponsors will be accepted on first come basis. As such we request you to put your hands up to sponsor the deities as soon as possible.
Shrine Sponsorship
Deity Names: Lord Sri Murugan Shrine / Lord Sri Shiva Shrine / Lord Sri SivaShakthi Shrine / Lord Sri Vinayagar/Ganesha Shrine
Lord Sri Venkedeshwara Shrine / Lord Sri Ram Darbar Shrine / Lord Sri Navagragham Shrine / Lord Bairavar Shrine / Lord Sri Chandikeshwara Shrine
If you are interested in sponsoring a deity as a single person or as a group please consult our committee on following email: gchcan@gmail.com
All monetary contributions of $2 or more to the GCHCA Building Fund will be eligible for a tax deduction. The first phase of the project is estimated to cost around 1.5 million dollars. We, therefore humbly appeal for your support. Any contribution would make a difference and every cent counts towards helping our community realize its dream.
All tax-deductible donations ($2 or more) can be deposited into the following: Commonwealth Bank Account: The GCHCA Building Donation Account BSB: 064-474, Account Number: 104 88 900
You can also donate to the GCHCA Common Account (non tax deductible) if the purpose of donation is for the direct religious purpose: GCHCA Common Account BSB 064-474, Account No 104 88 230
Web site: www.GoldCoastHindu.org
Email: gchcan@gmail.com

Pongal Festival 2017

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By Mala Dhanasekar

THE Annual Pongal Festival on 21 Jan 2017 at Robelle domain was a huge success! The organisers, acknowledged the traditional owners of the lands and also welcomed the guests, supporters and community and officially started the event with lighting the lamp.   About 2000 people attended. The event was enjoyed by members from the Tamil and non-Tamil community, with bountiful amounts of food, dancing, music, fireworks, displays, games and cultural awareness and appreciation.

Although the rain kept a few of the anticipated numbers away, there was a large crowd who came along to celebrate with us. The event was designed to bring awareness and give an opportunity for the community living here to have a chance to experience how traditional festivities occur.

The festival began with the traditional ceremony of lighting the lamp. The event consisted of plenty of traditional games throughout the afternoon segment. One of these was “Kabaddi”, where you have two teams competing against each other, with the goal being to have your team be the one to have the majority of players going through the opposition side, tagging those members and returning back to their own side. All of this is done, will holding your breathe and saying the word “Kabaddi” over and over again. If the person invading the opposition side is however tackled and prevented from returning their side, then the opposition side gains a point.

Another traditional activity that takes place particularly during cultural festivities, is the art of “Kolam Designing” which is drawing using rice flour, chalk, chalk powder and other variations of coloured powders, to create designs and artwork which is traditionally placed at the front of the house and in prayer rooms.

Another game, that our special guests also took part in, the game called “Uriyadi: which involves smashing a small earthen pot with a long stick, while the participant is blind folded and spun around to disorient them from the location of the pot. This game is similar to hitting a pinata.

There was also a three legged race and pongal (sweet rice pudding) tasting. A jumping castle was present which a lot of the children enjoyed and took part in, as well as a stall where people could do a variety of activities to win prizes. There was also a magic show which the kids participated in and enjoyed greatly.

There was also plenty of food stalls ranging from, sugar cane juice, dim sim, churros to more traditional Indian food.

There was a beautiful slide show display above the stage which told stories on what the traditional Pongal festivals look like back home in Tamil Nadu, it showed illustrated pictures of how the famers celebrate, as the festival celebrates the harvest season.

The evening part of the festivities included both young and older generations participating in cultural dances, musical numbers and entertainment for the viewers. The night ended with spectacular fireworks which everyone enjoyed.

Both Mr Peter Russo MP our event ambassador and the Mayor of Ipswich Mr Paul Pisasale, Mr. Surendra Prasad Fiji senior citizens president and other guests Mr. Anthony Shorten, Inspector Melissa Adams (represented Queensland Police Commissioner Ian Stewart) spoke about the importance of embracing our culture and how important the event experience was, particularly for the younger generation growing up here to understand and gain an appreciation for their cultural roots. It was again, a great honour to have them be a part of the festivities.

The success of the 2017 Pongal Festival event was due to the huge support from community, Event Ambassador Mr. Peter Russo, Queensland Multicultural grant, Media supporters and local community organisations.

Many of the people who came by to celebrate and check out the event were thoroughly impressed and expressed they will be returning next year.

It was a beautiful opportunity to see how harmonious the communities all worked together and it was so heart-warming to see everyone enjoying themselves and seeing both young and older generations performing and embracing their culture.

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THE three day Murthi Pran Pratishha at Vishnu Maya Mandir marked a major milestone for the Queensland Indian community. After accruing the land, the initial planning began around 2012, Deepak Kumar of Santoshi Developments volunteered his services in consultation with Dharam Guru Pundit Tripathi Ji, later Mr Kris Nagia, Mr Hemant and Mrs Kalpana Naik, Trevor Richters, Mr Suresh Chandra, Ramesh and Vikhas all joined hands to get the plans from conceptualization to reality. There were many others who assisted in which ever capacity they were capable of. The project progressed well despite the challenges with the grace of almighty and the perseverance of Dharam Guru Pundit Tripathi Ji.
28th July 2012 show the Bhoomi poojan (ground breaking ceremony) take place at 86 Scott Lane North Mclean, devotes turned out in large numbers on this winters morning to take part in the historic event. Everyone congratulated Dharam Guru Pundit Tripathi ji on the accomplishment, a difficult task that many committees are struggling with, Pundit ji had demonstrated that good leadership coupled with dedication can overcome all obstacles.
The construction began with some financial support of the community at large, many challenges had to be overcome, but despite compliance struggles and exposure to weather disruptions, the project progressed inch by inch, the next big challenge was getting the roof on, given the size of the Mandir and the span, the trusses had to have pillar supports. Miraculously the roof was completed just in time for the Murthi Isthapna.
While construction was taking place Dharam Guru Pundit Tripathi Ji together with his wife Ashaji, went to India to organise all the Murthis, quite a task in itself. Pundit ji and Ashaji also chose the doors that were especially made in Rajasthan, incorporating the intricate handiwork unique to that region. Despite all the challenges and struggles finally the day had arrived, that historic moment of Murthi Pran Pratistha, the stage was set and stars had aligned for this auspicious occasion.
Murthi Pran Pratishtha by Dharam Guru, Pundit Tripathi ji began on 20th January, and ended on 22nd January, a very auspicious period as per our Vedic scriptures and Panchang. On 20th January Murthis Suddhikaran began at 6 am in the morning, bhajans were sung by members of Jyoti women’s club. Breakfast, lunch and dinner were provided to all of the attending devotees. Bhajans on the first night were sung by a very talented Sonu, who fly in from Cairns for the function, Sonu was joined by Ravi and Suresh. Umesh Chandra was the Mc for all the programs for the three days.
Suhdhikaran or purification of Murthis is a very vital step in the commissioning process of the murthis before the purification process; they are just another stone statue. During construction, transportation and installation the stone mason and other artists may or may not have been all pure, as for them it is their daily job. Pran Pratishta ceremonies are a process of bringing the divinity of life onto the statues. At the successful completion of the purification process the statues are placed in their permanent spots and are considered to have gained the supreme power worthy of worship. Once the statues are fully commissioned they need to be cared for in a special manner.
On day two 21st January the program format was basically the same, the only difference was the different poojas for the murthis which had progressed from the first day, there are various steps that need to be followed, and Dharam Guru Pundit Tripathi ji conducted these special ceremonies diligently and religiously. A special point to note here is that was a very historic moment, for it is very rare for twenty five murthis to be commissioned all together. Amongst many detailed process the muthis are covered in food grain etc and then blindfolded. The bhajans on the second night were sung by Dr Vijay Prahalad from Rockhampton, who was accompanied on table by Joseph Abhay Nand, very talented artists once again, applauded by all. The sound was provided by Praneel Sinha (DJ Desi).
Day three began with a communal havan, incorporating Vishnu Shastranaam, thousand names of Lord Vishnu officiated by Dharam Guru Pundit Tripathi Ji. Jyoti Womens Club sang the bhajans during the day, the final nights bhajans were performed by members of Brisbane Babas Band, lead singers were Ashutosh Saroch and Manshi Gandhi, now this was the segment reserved originally for Anuradha Paudwal who could not come for various reasons (see separate article), the accompanying musicians were Parth Raval on Keyboards, Khushal Sami on Tabla, Darsheel Shah on Flute and Umesh Chandra on octapad. The segment was much appreciated by the large number of attendees. After the bhajans everyone was asked to be upstanding for the historic unveiling of the murthis, this was the first time that everyone would see the fully commissioned Murthis face to face.
The attendance on all three days was very good despite many other functions like Pongal etc taking place at the same time. Volunteers worked round the clock to get the muthis ready, organising all prayer items, preparing food for everyone. The volunteer force got into gear weeks before, and worked very hard to get the temple ready for the Murthi Istaphana. At one stage, few weeks before the milestone pooja, it looked like an impossible task, but with divine intervention the magic happened and everything went ahead as per the plan.
The support of many Pundits (purohits) of Brisbane was notable, Pundit Saras Maharaj, Pundit Suresh Chandra, Pundit Narendra Sharma, Pundit Raj Kumar Mishra, Pundit Bharat Solanki and others. Dhiru Bhai Desai and his volunteer force made up of the resident mandali of Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir cannot be thanked enough for their amazing contribution. The danger in mentioning names is that I will miss someone so I would like to say that all the volunteers who assisted in whichever way are all to be thanked, there was so much that had to be done and everything just went ahead smoothly.
During the ceremonies Umesh Chandra called upon the community to be united and move forward, another Mandir is a accomplishment for the entire Indian community, we need more community centres and Educational institutions to our name, when a community project is undertaken we should assist, and we are unable to assist we should not create obstacles or disruptions, from my experience, the distractions and opposition often comes from within our community and not from any other community. A Mandir is made up of devotion and purity of mind, and not a committee, when we travel overseas and go to many Tirath shrines, do we check who the committee is? Or do we go there to get the blessing and offer our prayers; this is the true essence of Dharma.
The Mandir has been established there is a lot that has to be done, come unite and contribute.

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