Tarana Diwali Paper 2011

FREE
SEPT/OCT 2011
DIWALI INNEW ZEALAND 2011
SPECIAL MESSAGES FOR DIWALI
Rt. Hon John Key

I would like to wish you all a happy Diwali. The Diwali festival of lights is a vibrant, entertaining, and unique celebration for New Zealands Indian communities. Its a chance to recognise the growing contribution our Indian communities make to our culture, our economy, and our success as a nation. I value the strong relationship the National-led Government has with our Indian communities. We are committed to ensuring your voice is heard at the highest levels of Government. We are also continuing to work hard on the issues that matter to you the economy, education, health, and law and order. We are building a brighter future for all New Zealanders, so that this is an even better place for you to live, work, and raise a family. I hope you enjoy celebrating Diwali. Best wishes for the year ahead.
Len Brown
Namaste, hello and best wishes to all. It is my honour to wish you and your family a happy Diwali this year. I want to thank Radio Tarana for being a key supporter of Diwali festivals around New Zealand. Diwali is an important event for our whole community and its message about the triumph of good over evil signifies the hope we all share about our future. Indian events, such as Diwali, Independence Day and Indias National Day, are all celebrated and supported by the Auckland Council. The last census said that 74,442 people in Auckland indentified themselves as Indian and the community can be rightly proud of its economic, educational, cultural and sporting contributions to the region. It is important that we recognise the positive contribution the Indian community makes to our region and celebrate events such as Diwali. I join with you in this celebration and wish you all the best.
Rt. Hon John Key Prime Minister of New Zealand
Len Brown Mayor of Auckland
Understanding Diwali
Celia Wade-Brown
The literal meaning of Diwali in Sanskrit is a row of lamps. The most popular tradition of Diwali is filling little clay lamps with oil and wick and lighting them in rows all over the house. Even today, the tradition projects the rich and glorious past of our country and teaches us to uphold the true values of life. Diwali has many legends and religious accounts associated with it. Lights and diyas are lit to signifying the driving away of darkness and ignorance, as well as the awakening of the light within ourselves. It is the perfect time for family gatherings, foods, celebrations and pooja. Goddess Laxmi plays a major role in this festival, as do Ram and Sita. This autumn festival is a five-days celebration, of which each one has its own significance. People renovate and decorate their houses and business places. Entrances are made colorful with lovely traditional motifs of Rangoli designs to welcome Laxmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. To indicate her long awaited arrival, small footprints are drawn with rice flour and vermilion powder (kumkum) all over the houses. Lamps are kept burning all through the nights. In order to welcome Goddess Laxmi, the house is kept clean and rangoli is drawn at the doorstep. A pandit is consulted for the best time of puja. The general things needed for a diwali puja are silver and gold coins, suparis, uncooked Rice, paan leaves, kumkum for applying tilak, mithaai (Indian sweets), camphor, agarbattis (incense sticks), dry fruit (almonds, cashews), flower petals and Lakshmi-Ganesh icon. The pooja ritual is performed in the evening when tiny diyas of clay are lit to drive away the shadows of evil spirits. Bhajans are sung in praise of the goddess and sweets are offered to her. Diwali puja consists of a combined pooja of five deities: Ganesha is worshipped at the beginning of every auspicious act as Vighnaharta; Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped in her three forms Mahalakshmi,the goddess of wealth and money, Mahasaraswati, the goddess of books and learning and Mahakali. People also worship Kuber- the treasurer of the gods. Namaste. The Diwali Festival is a special time for the capital as we come alive with the Festival of Lights and celebrate our unity as a city through the wonderful diversity of our people. Wellington is home to 85 ethnicities and standing prominently and proudly are the Indian communities. There is so much to admire about Indian culture: The lavish colours and exquisite fabrics of traditional dress, the love of dance, the mesmerising music, the ancient and traditional literature, Bollywood films and of course Indian food is divine they are all part of the rich and diverse tapestry from the Sub-continent that we can all enjoy. The Diwali Festival is a celebration of Indian cultures and it is also a recognition of the significant role the Indian community plays in Wellington. Diwali has become a highlight on the calendar for all Wellingtonians and an opportunity to learn from and appreciate each other. To all our many friends who are involved in Diwali 2011, thank you and congratulations. Wellington is a city that is inclusive, colourful, diverse and talented, and the 2011 Diwali Festival is a shining example of that. Celia Wade-Brown Mayor of Wellington
DIWALI IN NEW ZEALAND RADIO TARANA: Advertising & Advertorials Surya 021 581 386, Krishna 0274 531 004, Ajeshni 021 961 386, Gopal 021 911 386. Graphic Designer Parimal 021 160 6162. Radio Tarana, P.O. Box 5956, Wellesley St, Auckland. Phone 09 303 1386 Fax 09 303 3066. Website: www.tarana.co.nz
The Festival of Lights
Highlights at the Auckland and Wellington Diwali Festival 2011
Masters of dance from Manipur
A highlight of the 2011 Diwali Festival of Lights will be performances by richly costumed dancers from Indias north eastern state of Manipur. Manipuri dance is one of the six classical dance styles that India is famous for. The unusual cylindrical skirts worn by female Manipuri dancers are said to be modelled on one seen in a dream by a Maharaja who lived over 200 years ago. The dancers colourful costumes also feature mirrors and zari embroidery intricately woven into beautiful designs. On the head, covering the face, the female dancers wear a transparent veil called an odhni.
Manipuri dance is devotional in nature and is known for its rounded movements, delicacy and grace. Instruments, including cymbals and drums, are a key element. The Manipur dancers will perform at the Diwali Festival of Lights at Aotea Square in Auckland on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 October and in Wellington at the TSB Bank Arena on Sunday 16 October 2011. The J.N.Manipur Dance Academy has been brought to New Zealand with the support of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations and the High Commission for India.
SPECTACULAR SAND SCULPTURES
Children at this years Diwali Festival of Lights are in for a special treat theyll see giant shadow puppets from India. The Chennai-based puppet company The Indian Puppeteers will bring to life some of the best-loved stories known by all Indian children. Chief among them will be the tale of the brave monkey king, Hanuman, who leads an army of monkeys to rescue Lord Ramas wife, Sita, from the clutches of the ten-headed demon king Lord Ravana. The stories are based on the ancient epics Ramayana and Mahabharatha. The beautiful puppets made from parchment leather range in size up to two metres high. The award winning Indian Puppeteers company has performed in many international puppet festivals and on television in India. They will perform at the Diwali Festival of Lights at Aotea Square in Auckland on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 October and in Wellington at the TSB Bank Arena on Sunday 16 October 2011. The Indian Puppeteers have been brought to New Zealand with the support of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations and the High Commission for India.
Indian sand artist Ranjan Ganguly will carve some spectacular sculptures out of sand at this years Diwali Festival of Lights. Ranjan was born in the coastal town of Jagannath Puri, in the state of Orissa. As a child he would wander down to the beach with his friends and use his imagination to carve out the images of Indian gods and goddesses in the sand. Sand sculpture was not a well known art in
India at the time, but by the time he reached adulthood Ranjan had become very expert. Determined to make his name, Ranjan started exhibiting his skills around India, including at the Desert Festival in Rajasthans Jaisalmer. Ranjan now describes himself as a National Sand Artist and has exhibited internationally. His hope is to open a sand sculpture institute in India for the children of slum dwellers to
give them a means of making a living. Ranjans sand sculpture will be exhibited at the Diwali Festival of Lights at Aotea Square in Auckland on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 October and in Wellington at the TSB Bank Arena on Sunday 16 October 2011. Sand sculptor Ranjan Kumar Ganguly has been brought to New Zealand with the support of Cathay Pacific.
SPECIAL MESSAGE FOR DIWALI FROM NATIONAL PARTY MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT
Nikki Kaye
The Diwali Festival of Lights is part of the cultural fabric of our city and I am delighted to participate in what has become an integral part of our festival calendar. New Zealands Indian community has long established itself as a culturally vibrant group and Diwali is an opportunity for all Aucklanders to get together and celebrate our diverse cultural traditions. I have been privileged to attend the festival each year for three years. Thousands of people attended the festival last year and this year could be even bigger as we have many international visitors in Auckland for the Rugby World Cup tournament. Diwali is a special time for families and friends to celebrate together. Diwali is Indias best loved festival and it is a time to bring along the whole family to sample the colours, sounds, tastes and spicy aromas of India. The New Zealand Indian community are well known for their strong work ethic and rich culture. I hope many Aucklanders will turn out to this year to support the festival and share in this wonderful celebration Nikki Kaye Member of Parliament for Auckland Central
Melissa Lee
Diversity is what makes this city a dynamic and interesting place to live. The Indian community play an important role in making this country vibrant and they significantly contribute socially, economically and culturally. Diwali is an important festival in the Indian calendar. Its a time for Indians to gather and celebrate the achievements of the past year and look forward with hope to the year ahead. The values of Diwali reflects reconciliation, peace and the triumph of good. I would like to congratulate the organisers of the various Diwali Festivals including the local councils, Asia NZ Foundation, Radio Tarana, various Indian Associations, the many different sponsors and the performing artists at all Diwali festivals. It gives me great pleasure in wishing you a happy and prosperous Diwali. Melissa Lee National Party List MP
Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi

I am pleased to send my best wishes to the communities in New Zealand who are celebrating Diwali. Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is observed right across the world. It is a celebration of the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It is a time when the family is at centre stage. Diwali is a time, for reflection both on what has been achieved in the past and our hopes and ambitions for the future. This festival has another important role. It gives every one of us a chance to reflect on the important contribution that our Indian communities are making to New Zealands success. This is something for us all to celebrate and be proud of. With my best wishes at this special time. Happy Diwali Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi National Party List MP
Dr Cam Calder
The annual festival of Diwali lights up our cities and towns every year. This is always a great opportunity for us to experience the best of Indian culture first hand and I am really looking forward to the upcoming Diwali festival celebrations in our Manurewa community. The Diwali Festival of Lights symbolises the victory of righteousness, the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and the renewal of life. These are all excellent reasons to celebrate and give us a unique chance to recognise the important contribution our Indian communities are making to Manurewa, the Auckland region, and New Zealand as a whole. New Zealand is an increasingly diverse and vibrant nation and Diwali is becoming a significant and joyous occasion for people from all backgrounds across New Zealand. The National-led Government encourages the contribution of all New Zealanders to the success of our communities and our economy. We are working hard with you to secure a brighter future for your family by making your communities safer, helping build a sustainable economy and improving education and health for everyone. National values the strong relationship we have with our Indian communities and we are working hard to ensure your voice is heard at the highest levels of Government. I hope that you enjoy celebrating this occasion with your family and friends and I wish you all the best during this joyous time! Diwali Mubarak! Dr Cam Calder National MP based in Manurewa
SPECIAL MESSAGE FOR DIWALI FROM LABOUR PARTY MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT
Hon. Phil Goff

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, has long been celebrated as one of the most important times of the year in the Indian community. In New Zealand today it is also the opportunity for many others of us in the wider community to join in to celebrate the culture and traditions of India. In a world which continues to face many problems, Diwali carries an important message for all of us, the victory of light over darkness symbolizing good prevailing over evil. It signifies a new beginning and the renewal of life, and hope for a better world. I hope Diwali will bring joy to you and your families. I look forward to Radio Tarana's Bollywood dance competition, and enjoying the fashion shows, craft displays and wonderful food. Thank you for the role that Radio Tarana plays and a big thanks to the Indian community for the contribution it makes to the richness, diversity and strength of our country. Hon. Phil Goff Leader of the Labour Party
Hon David Cunliffe

DEEPAWALI KI SHUBH KAAMNAAYE AAP SABHI KO I want to wish each and every one of you a very happy Diwali. This Festival of Lights is not only a major festival for Hindus Buddhists and SIkhs, but it has come to symbolise the prominence and vibrancy of the Indian communities in New Zealand. Diwali celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and the return of Ram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and the eldest son of King Dasharath of Ayodhya, from his 14-year exile with Sita and Lakshman after killing the Ravan, illuminated by the people of Ayodhya with earthen diyas and fireworks in celebration of the return of their king. For all New Zealanders it now also calls to mind the essential role in our society that is played by Indian New Zealanders. Your community is highly regarded for its hard work and contribution to New Zealand, which is even more exciting as India regains prominence on the world stage. We are fortunate to have a strong and inclusive society where all can celebrate their heritage. Happy Diwali to you all. Hon David Cunliffe MP for New Lynn Labour Spokesperson on Finance
Dr Rajen Prasad
Radio Tarana has become synonymous with the celebration of Diwali throughout New Zealand. I wish to thank Radio Tarana for helping celebrate the joy of Diwali both for the Hindu communities as well as the general population. Diwali has become an iconic celebration reflective of the advanced stage of diversity that New Zealand has reached in a relatively short period of time. Diwali falls in a month that holds special significance for many eastern communities. It follows Eid and Navratri. Diwali signifies new beginnings and a sense of renewal. To Radio Tarana listeners diwali ki shubh kaamnaaye aur naya saal mubarak. I also want to acknowledge the families who will be marking Diwali this year without some of their loved ones who have left us during the year. This will be a sad time for you as your families gather to mark this Diwali. I want to acknowledge the enormous contribution that the Indian communities make to New Zealand. Collectively you have become an important and valued corner stone of New Zealand. In the years to come our children and grandchildren will be an even more significant part of this society. I hope every family has a great Diwali season and I look forwarding to the many functions that I will attend over the next three weeks or so and to meeting as amany of you as possible.
Dr Rajen Prasad Labour Member of Parliament
MESSAGE FOR DIWALI FROM ASIA:NZ FOUNDATION
Dr Richard Grant
Mubarak ho - Greetings We at Asia New Zealand Foundation are delighted to support the tenth Diwali Festival of Lights at Aucklands Aotea Square and Centre. This Festival provides the Indian community a wonderful opportunity to share the rich tastes and much-loved cultural traditions - both customary and modern - with other Aucklanders of all ages and their families. The Festival celebrates not only the traditions of Diwali, but the Indian culture as a whole. We are excited about the Festival and we know that it will further strengthen the friendship between the local Indian communities, India and the people of Auckland. We wish the 2011 Diwali Festival of Lights in Auckland all the best. Dr Richard Grant Executive Director
SPECIAL MESSAGE FOR DIWALI FROM OTHER POLITICAL LEADERS
Don Brash
On behalf of the entire ACT Party, and in particular of Pratima Nand, our candidate in the Roskill electorate, and on behalf of my wife and me personally, I wish all your many listeners a very joyful and happy Diwali.
Rt Hon. Winston Peters

Kia Ora and Namaste As the leader of New Zealand First I wish you all the very best this deepawali and hope it brings joy and success to our homes. Diwali is the time to worship, rejoice, to dispel any grievance and avoid basically becoming one. Its a blessing that we reside in one of the worlds most peaceful countries. New Zealand First always has respected other cultures and faiths, our very colourful multiracial team speaks for itself. Because observing Diwali also means expressing gratitude and recognizing the imminent and transcendent reality, I think its right that as kiwis we do not forget the lives lost at the Pike River disaster and the most destructive February Christchurch earthquake. New Zealand first pays tribute to the lives lost and the families who have suffered. In the last decade Diwali in New Zealand has created a special place within Kiwi life. It is evidence of how we have many people of different cultures living here now. I must take this opportunity to acknowledge the ongoing efforts of our Indo Kiwis in todays society. Be it agriculture, retail, property, I.T, the medical sector or the law society just to name a few, your contribution has been phenomenal. Radio Tarana has been serving the Indian community for over 15 years. Robert Khan with his very capable and talented team as a result was recognised at the NZ Radio awards for their fine contribution. I commend Robert Khan for his serious dedication and hard work. New Zealand First wishes you have a blessed deepawali and may the New Year bring success. Happy Diwali.
Don Brash Leader of the ACT Party
Rt. Honourable Winston Peters Leader of NZ First
SPECIAL MESSAGE FOR DIWALI FROM AUCKLAND COUNCILLORS
Penny Hulse
Namaste. Thank you for the invitation to share my best wishes at this special time. Auckland is, I am proud to say, the most culturally diverse city in New Zealand; it gives me great pleasure to support this years Diwali celebrations. The festival of lights marks the beginning of the Hindu year; its a time for new beginnings and new ventures. Many of you made that new beginning when you migrated to this country. As someone who was born in another country and came to Aotearoa New Zealand during my childhood, I have a personal appreciation for the challenges faced by new Kiwis. I also know the cultural richness woven into the tapestry that is modern-day New Zealand. Thank you Radio Tarana for the key role you continue to play in our media landscape. I wish to all Aucklanders a very happy Diwali and a prosperous New Year. Penny Hulse Deputy Mayor - Auckland Council
Arthur Anae
Diwali is a very significant part of the lives of the Indian community in Auckland. Auckland Council is proud to be able to support and allow the Indian Community to share with all the people of Auckland this great occasion and festival that we can all and benefit from. As one of your Councillors I say thank you for supporting me to represent you on this beautiful city of ours. Recently you would have witnessed the opening of the Wynyard Quarter, our new Extensions to the Art Gallery, the Cloud and the waterfront development. The opening of the World Rugby Cup gave us the opportunity to show the world who we are and our capabilities. Come with us on the Auckland Plan for the next 30 years and share the fantastic ideas we have, endorse them and tell us what else you would like to develop to make us the most liveable City in the world. Come with us on the journey Arthur Anae Auckland Councillor Manukau Ward
SPECIAL MESSAGE FOR DIWALI FROM THE ORGANISERS
Robert Khan
On behalf of Radio Tarana, its management and team, I would like to wish the Indian Community, and the people of Aotearoa, a Very Happy Diwali and Prosperous New Year. For 16 years Radio Tarana has worked with the community and established a cohesive forum for the community to voice its issues and establish its identity in New Zealand. It is with pride that we present this free Diwali supplement to the people of New Zealand, along with four big Diwali events in Manukau, Waitakere, Auckland and Wellington. These events would not be possible but with the support of the councils (Auckland City, Wellington City), ASIA:NZ Foundation, Waitakere Indian Association and Manukau Indian Association, as well as you: the visitors to the events who make it all possible. I would also like to acknowlodge the Tarana Team for their hardwork in making all the Diwali festivals successful.
Anand Naidu JP
Diwali or Deepawali is certainly the biggest and the brightest of all Hindu festivals. Also known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is celebrated by Hindus all over the world. The governments and people of many countries and cultures have embraced this vibrant and colourful festival of Diwali. The essence of Diwali lies in the significance of victory of good over evil; and is celebrated with passion and pride by lighting diyas that illuminate our homes and our hearts. We find new reason and hope for our future. On behalf Waitakere Indian Association, I wish extend our warm greetings of Deepawali to one and all and pray to Almighty Lord to shower his divine blessings upon everyone, May the Lord grant you peace and serenity and illuminate your lives with happiness and prosperity. I would also like to pass on my Deepawali greetings to Executive Committee members of WIA. WIA Trustees, WIA Seniors group, WIA Youth and Sports group and WIA Hindi School. Furthermore, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Radio Tarana and all our Sponsors for their continued support to Waitakere Indian Association over many years. We appreciate the leadership role played by Radio Tarana in supporting and promoting this festival in all major cities of New Zealand. Happy Diwali!
Ranjna Patel
Manukau Indian Associations wishes everyone a Happy Diwali and a Happy and Prosperous New year Diwali is a festival which has gained its popularity owing to the nature of its celebrations. It has long been considered to have a religious significance which is now lost in the universal feelings of goodness and joy which envelop everyone on this day., much like Christmas . Of all traditional Indian festivals, Diwali can be safely said to be the most widely accepted and loved by the people of this country. It is one of those rare occasions which give Indians a unique identity and we are able to share this with the wider community. One essential before the Diwali is a neat and clean house illuminated with Diyas and candles welcoming Goddess Laxmi (goddess of wealth ) and driving away evil spirits. Rangolis are drawn at the entrance and small footprints with rice flour and vermilion are also drawn to indicate the long awaited arrival of Goddess Lakshmi. Oil lamps are kept burning throughout the night to guide Lakshmi after her secret arrival in the nighttime. Come and celebrate Diwali and come and enjoy Rangoli at Telstra on 16 October from 12pm till late. Fireworks will be at 9.00pm before the semifinal game with the All Blacks
Happy Diwali 2011
Robert Khan Chief Executive Officer - Radio Tarana
Anand Naidu JP President of Waitakere Indian Association
Ranjna Patel President of Manukau Indian Association
SPECIAL MESSAGE FOR DIWALI FROM AUCKLAND COUNCILLORS
Mike Lee
Namaste. I would like to extend my best wishes to all Kiwi Indians on the occasion of Diwali. This years Diwali Festival I am told will be bigger and better than ever - with an expanded programme that brings more colour and diversity to one of Aucklands much loved events. We look forward to the festivals traditional highlights including local and international performers, a Bollywood dance competition, lantern workshops, authentic craft and food stalls as well as the fireworks finale The Diwali Festival plays an increasingly important role in proudly promoting Aucklands diversity as, together, Aucklanders work to make our home the worlds most liveable city. Thank you to all the organisers, contributors and performers who have worked so hard to make Diwali a highlight of our city calendar. I wish all Kiwi Indians and indeed all my fellow Aucklanders a very happy Diwali and future prosperity. Mike Lee Auckland Councillor
Cameron Brewer
Since moving to Auckland a decade ago, I have enjoyed watching the growth of the Diwali Festival. This year Auckland celebrates its 10th Diwali Festival which promises to be bigger and better than ever, celebrating Indian culture with a weekend of non-stop entertainment. Right in the middle of the Rugby World Cup tournament, Diwali celebrations in the central city from noon to 9pm on the 8th and 9th of October will attract huge numbers of Aucklanders and overseas visitors here for the rugby. Entry is free to the Aotea Square and Aotea Centre. It will be a wonderful celebration of Indias best-loved festival. I understand Diwali symbolises the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and the renewal of life. What an uplifting message and philosophy. Auckland is one of the most multicultural cities in the world and it too is enjoying a sense of renewal with the region now one city, and a lot of plans on the table for a positive future. I wish everyone involved every success with the 2011 Diwali Festival and also encourage you to take the opportunity to get involved in the planning of Aucklands future. As a relative new comer to Auckland, I have never known a place so full of opportunities. Enjoy! Cameron Brewer Auckland Councillor for Orakei
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Diwali in India
Celebrated with great excitement and grandeur, Diwali or Deepavali is one of the prime Hindu festivals that unites the whole of India. Know about the different ways in which this sparkling festival is celebrated in different parts of the country.
North India According to the great Hindu epic Ramayana, Diwali is believed to be the time when Lord Rama defeated and killed the evil King Ravana and after passing a period of fourteen years in exile returned to his capital Ayodhya (in the Faizabad district of Uttar Pradesh) on a new moon day of the Kartik season; with wife Sita and brother Lakshman. This homecoming of Lord Rama was celebrated with lights, fireworks, bursting of crackers accompanied by much merriment. The tradition continues to this day in the northern states of Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Bihar and the surrounding areas where huge effigies of Ravana are burned symbolizing Lord Rama's vanquishing of the demon king. The Diwali night, in these areas, is a night of fireworks with sparklers and crackers of all types burnt throughout the night. The idols of Goddess Lakshmi, the symbol of wealth and prosperity and Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god, the symbol of auspiciousness and wisdom, are worshipped in most Hindu homes on this day. Most of the temples dedicated to the worship of Lord Rama or Krishna celebrate Diwali with great piety and eagerness. Eastern India In the eastern region of the country, Diwali is celebrated with great fanfare. In Orissa, oil lamps, candles and lanterns are lit and placed in rows around individual homes. Crackers are burst, sparklers lighted and gifts and sweets distributed by people across the state. The celebration here is almost like anywhere in India save for one ritual that calls upon the spirits of the family's forefathers. A primitive custom in this festival includes the burning of jute stems to light up the dark path that the spirits of the ancestors supposedly take to go back to heaven. Most of the houses are brightly lit and the doors and windows kept open to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, who is supposed to visit every home during this time and is believed to ignore all places that are kept dark and abandoned. In West Bengal, Lakshmi puja is celebrated earlier than the Diwali celebrations and the deity celebrated on this occasion is the fierce Goddess Kali. "Kali Puja" or the worship of Goddess Kali is what makes the celebration in this part of India a unique one. In Kolkata, the capital of the state, as well as in all the other parts of West Bengal, the nights of "Kali Puja" are marked by high festivities that consist of activities similar to other regions like bursting crackers, holding dazzling fireworks display, lighting rows of candles and diyas around individual homes, painting colourful patterns at the doorstep, dressing up in new clothes and paying a visit to friends and relatives. Across the state, makeshift structures called pandals, (made of materials such as bamboos, rope and cloth are erected) which house idols of Goddess Kali for the two days of celebration. The actual worship of the deity is, however, done only for one night during this festival. It is also believed that it is the night of the 'Pitripurush' (ancestors) and lamps are lit on long poles to guide their souls on this night. But the practice is more common in rural areas of Bengal than in cities like Kolkata. Western India In the western states of India, Diwali is a four-day festival, the preparations for which begin at least 15 days in advance. The markets liven up almost a whole month in advance for Diwali shoppers and the shopping frenzy peaks with the advancement of the occasion.
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currency notes and gold. The third day, Padawa, is considered to be one of the most auspicious days of the year in states like Maharashtra, and is held to be propitious for beginning any important task. This is the day for shopping, lighting diyas (earthen lamps) and performing tilak ceremony. In Gujarat, this is the New Year day when people visit each other to wish a new beginning. Bhau Beej is the last day of the festival that signifies siblingbonding and the celebrations during this day is quite akin to Rakhi, another great Indian festival standing for the brother-sister relationship. Unlike Raksha Bandhan however, which is a day dedicated to brothers, Bhau Beej is dedicated to sisters. In Maharashtra, Diwali is celebrated over a span of four days. The first day, Vasubaras, is
pujan day, a new moon day, the dark night of which is illuminated by lamps and fireworks. In every household, an idol of Goddess Lakshmi and items of wealth like currency and jewellery are worshipped. Friends, neighbours and relatives are invited over and celebrations are in full swing. Southern India In Southern India, Diwali is celebrated in the Tamil month of aipasi (thula month) 'naraka chaturdasi' thithi, preceding amavasai. Naraka chaturdashi is the main day of the Diwali celebrations in this area. The preparations begin the day before, when the oven is cleaned, smeared with lime, religious symbols drawn on it and then filled with water for the next day's oil bath. Individual homes are washed and decorated with kolam designs (akin to rangoli patterns in North India). Firecrackers and new apparels are kept on a plate to be used on the following day. On the morning of Naraka chaturdashi, the actual celebrations begin with an early morning oil bath before sunrise. Afterwards, sweets are partaken and new clothes worn. A unique Diwali custom in Tamil Nadu is the once-in-a-lifetime event, Thalai Deepavali, when newly weds spend their first diwali after marriage in the bride's parental home. The newly married couple, after taking blessings from the elders, burst the first crackers of the day and
thereafter pay a visit to the temple, get gifts of clothes and jewellery, savour the sweets reserved for them and receive blessings of elders for a happy married life. In this joyful occasion the groom's parents and relatives also come down to join in the celebrations. Rural India In the rural regions of India, the Diwali celebrations, apart from all its other significances, also stand in for harvest celebrations. In villages across the country, Diwali is the time that farmers celebrate with joy and offer praises to God for granting them a good crop. In the morning, multicoloured Rangoli or Kolam designs denoting shapes as the footsteps of Goddess Lakshmi are drawn at individual doorsteps and also all over the houses to usher in wealth, fortune and prosperity. Idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha are worshipped in most Hindu homes on this day. At dusk, the real jubilations begin. Tiny earthen lamps and candles are arranged all over individual huts in rows and create a beautiful sight to behold. People wear new clothes, burst firecrackers and light sparklers, visit the places of their relatives and friends to wish them on the occasion of Diwali and exchange gifts. All this illumination and fireworks, joy and festivity, symbolize the triumph of divine forces over those of wickedness, or rather - of good over evil.
On the night preceding Diwali, Gujaratis start celebrations by creating designs depicting images associated to the festival like deities, sun and flowers from natural powder colours (called "Rangoli") in their verandas. Images of small footprints are also drawn over individual doorsteps which is supposed to be a way of inviting Goddess Lakshmi to the house. On the first day, Narakchaturdashi, fruits are smashed and crackers burst to symbolize the killing of the evil demon Narakasur. On Lakshmi Pujan, the second and most important day of Diwali, Hindu homes all over the western region of India worship the idols of Lord Ganesh (deity of auspiciousness and wisdom) and Goddess Lakshmi (deity of wealth and prosperity) or symbols of them like
celebrated by performing an Aarti (prayer with songs) of the cow and its calf- which represents the love between a mother and her baby. The next day is Dhanatrayodashi or Dhanteras, a special day for tradesmen and business people for new account books are opened by them after a worship of Lord Ganesh and Goddess Lakshmi. On the third day, Narakchaturdashi, people get up before sunrise and take a bath after rubbing scented oil on their body. After this, the entire family visits a temple and offers prayers to their God. Following this, everyone feasts on Faral, a special Diwali preparation consisting of delicious sweets such as "karanji" and "ladoo" as well as some spicy eatables like "chakli" and "sev". The fourth day is Lakshmi
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DIWALI
Diwali, the festival of lights, is also the festival of gifts. One of the most celebrated occasions in India, Diwali is associated with fortune and prosperity, and hence, it is the biggest gift giving and shopping festival in India. Giving Gifts on Diwali is an excellent way to strengthen relationships with your near and dear ones. A present on this occasion reflects the warm feelings of the gift-giver and also the spirit of the festival. The popular tradition of exchanging gifts on Diwali is an age-old custom tied in with the festival and probably started with the inception of Diwali itself. In olden days, the simple rural people of India whose occupation mostly consisted of agriculture and cattle-rearing, used to exchange homemade sweets, farm produce or handcrafted decorative gifts among themselves on Diwali. Such presents were considered a token of love and the warmth; and the good wishes associated with the gifts mattered more than the gifts themselves. With time however, the tradition got more and more complicated and gift-giving is not so simple as it used to be earlier. Today a lot of importance is given today to the quality of the gift that one is presented with not only on Diwali, but also on other occasions. However, this wonderful tradition is not wholly a materialistic one and for a large section of Indian people, gift-giving still stands as a way of conveying love, respect, thankfulness, appreciation and a sense of belonging. So you must pull out all the stops to decide on the most appropriate gift for your loved ones on Diwali. To assist you in your quest, here we present you with some grand gift ideas and suggestions. Go over these and choose the best of Diwali presents and gifts for your friends and near ones:
Sweets: Sweets are traditional Diwali gifts and the festival of lights is truly incomplete without a generous helping of these sugary delights. Go for single type of sweets or a mix pack containing varieties of sweets. These days, many shops offer custom made Diwali Sweets in beautiful packs enveloped with gift wrappers. In case you can't decide on any other present, a big sweet pack will be just a nice gift for your friends, relatives and acquaintances. Dry Fruits: Like sweets, dry fruits too are a popular gift item for Diwali. An irresistible delight, dry fruits are thoroughly enjoyed during the winter season that follows the festival close on its heels. Dry Fruits Pack containing a mix of several varieties of nuts, cashews, chestnuts, almonds are easily available these days in most gift shops and make for nice Diwali Gifts. What's better, one can store these for long periods of time and don't have to bother about preserving them. Diwali Apparel: People love to receive new clothes on Diwali. Like in most festivals, people love to celebrate their happiness by dressing themselves up in new clothes and want to give their loved ones the same feeling. Keep in your mind the tastes and preferences of the receiver of your gift, and you can present him/her with traditional Indian outfits or the latest designer clothes from popular brands. Diwali Diyas: Diwali being the festival of lights, beautifully painted Diyas (earthen lamps) of exquisite designs are indispensable for the occasion. They also stand as a symbol of fortune and are believed to usher in prosperity to individual homes. Present your loved ones with a set of diyas on Diwali. They will love it for sure!
Diwali Candles: Nicely decorated candles are great too. These days, candles of various shapes, colours and scents are available in the market. Beautiful Diwali candles and candleholders are pocket-friendly for you and yet make lovely presents for your friends and relations. Diwali Greeting Cards: This is the common but still highly popular gift of Diwali. Greeting Cards are a highly popular gift for all occasions. In India they are getting increasingly popular and used as a secondary present that accompanies the main gift item. Whatever your present is, you would do well to send along a cool Greeting Card with your Diwali gift. Greeting Cards can be gifted to any person of any age; put in a nice message to your card expressing good wishes for the recipient and make this Diwali a memorable time for both of you. Silver Gift Items: One more traditional gift idea for Diwali is handing over silver items. Available in a wide range and exquisite designs, silver items are a great hit for Diwali and a favourite for aged people. The festival being a religious occasion, religious gift items made of silver like silver coins with images of idols as Lakshmi and Ganesh, puja thalis, small silver showpieces and crockery items like silver tea sets and utensils are quite popular as Diwali Gifts. They also reflect your wishes and prayers for the health and fortune of the recipient and his/her family. Decor Items: Diwali is the time to decorate the house and hence an appropriate time to present your friends and relations with decorative items.
Gift your near and dear ones nice decorative items to adorn their houses. Popular decor gift items include paintings, bric-a-bracs, show pieces, sculptures, flower vases, Feng-Shui pieces and hanging bells. Stationery and Desk-top Items: Stationery and Desk-top Gifts are also fabulous items to present to your near ones on Diwali. Preferred items in this category include writing instruments, portfolio bags and folders, time-pieces, reading lamps and the like. You can gift these items to anyone, including your colleagues, business associates and even the boss. Diwali Gift Hampers: In case you wish to present a whole lot of gift items, Diwali Gift Hampers are the perfect way to do so. You may make your own or go in for ready made Diwali Gift Hampers which are readily available in the market these days. Keep in mind the taste of your recipient(s) and your budget before you choose the gift hamper. Other Popular Diwali Gifts: Household gifts like kitchen gadgets, chinaware and travelling bags; Gourmet gift hampers consisting of mithais, dry fruits, jams and sherbets; home appliances like steam iron, juicers, toasters, microwave, coffee makers and rice cookers; electronic devices as mobile handsets, iPods, digital cameras, handycam, MP3 Players, DVD Players, PDA, cordless phones, LCD TVs and laptops; jewellers items like bracelets, rings, chains, pendants, cufflinks, tie-pins and the like. Giving is the only activity that makes you richer just in the act of giving. So, give with love and give with feeling. It will come back ten-fold to you.
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EasyCall Announces Sponsorship of Diwali Festival of Lights 2011

EasyCall, in association with Radio Tarana and Asia NZ, has announced sponsorship of Diwali Festival of Lights 2011 celebrations in Waitakere, Auckland, Wellington and Manukau. EasyCall sponsorship in 2011 continues a long association with Diwali and Radio Tarana. EasyCall is proud of its long term involvement and is pleased to announce some great new offers in time for the Diwali Festival 2011. EasyCalls fantastic rates for calls using the local access number include India at 5c per min, Pakistan & Bangladesh at 9c per min, Sri Lanka at 18c per min and Fiji 29c per min! And to celebrate Diwali, EasyCall is please to announce the extension of the EasyCall Club Members promotion. EasyCall Club Members now receive 20% extra free on website recharges made before January 31st 2012! But its not just the rates and offers; there are many more reasons why EasyCall is New Zealands favorite prepaid phone card. EasyCall also offers: One Local Access Number (01221)which can be used throughout NZ. Nationwide Convenience Access Number (01222) when calling from payphones, hotels / motels or mobile phones. All rates include GST. Rechargeable over the phone, online or at retailer outlets across NZ. Customer service available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. EasyCall Member features such as AutoPIN and Speed dial. EasyCall Pre-paid Phone Card a great way to call friends and family to celebrate the Diwali Festival. For more information, the latest rates and full terms and conditions go to www.easycall.co.nz
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WAITAKERE INDIAN ASSOCIATION

Waitakere Indian Association (WIA) was established in year 2000 to provide community services to the people of Auckland. Over the past ten years WIA has established itself as a credible community organisation and has formed sound working relationships with the local Maori, Auckland Council, various ethnic groups, NGOs, local business community and our Sponsors. Waitakere Indian Association is registered as a Charitable Trust and is a participant in The New Zealand Diversity Action Programme. Further-more, this year we extended our relationship with the Childrens Commission and the Race Relations Office. As a parent body we support a number of our affiliate groups including: WIA Seniors Group WIA Youth and Sports Group WIA Hindi Language and Cultural group In addition to this WIA donated funds towards the Christchurch Earthquake Relief Fund through Red Cross. Events We run a full events calendar during the year with support from Radio Tarana and other Sponsors. Some of our events include: Waitakere Diwali Mela Waitakere Holi Mela Childrens Charity Concert run by the WIA Hindi School WIIA Social Nite WIA GAZAL program Last year Waitakere Indian Association was one of the nominees for the New Zealander of the Year in the Community category.
WIA is run by an elected Executive Committee with guidance from the Board of Trustees. WIA has established sound working relationships with Auckland Council and many other Communities in Auckland and takes pride in working for families while serving the community. May we take this opportunity, on behalf of Waitakere Indian Association to wish you all a very happy Diwali and a prosperous new year. From : Waitakere Indian Association Team
The Aces Summer of Cricket

The action packed HRV Cup T20 is back this summer with the Aces heading into the competition as reigning champions. Its a slightly later time slot from last season with the competition starting on 18 December and running through to the final on 22 Jan with ten rounds of high octane twenty20 cricket in between. Last season the weather put a bit of a dampener on things but hopefully this time around the Kiwi summer will kick in properly and well have a great competition. The BLACKCAPS will be available for the entirety of the HRV Cup and we should see another bunch of high profile overseas signings once again. The Aces will be back at Colin Maiden Park in Glen Innes for all their home games and its a wonderful place to watch cricket with all the things you need for a great day out something to eat, something to drink and stuff to keep the kids busy! For all the info on games, tickets, players and more just go to www.aucklandcricket.co.nz
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Radio Stars
speak of their favourite things
Radio stations are like newspaper offices buzzing with activity, with presenters, programme hosts, scheduling staff, marketing personnel and a host of others trying to make the best of every moment. In an industry where even microseconds matter, the stars of the waves strive hard to keep their listeners informed and entertained, keeping their cool. They are hardly seen in public and recognised, although their voice would give them away. They too have their tastes, preferences and lifestyles. What are their likes and passions in life? We profile here the select, qualitative team of Radio Tarana as the arguably numero uno of Indian Radio marks its 15th Birthday.
Ajeshni Raj Kumar

Place of Birth: Ba, Fiji Islands Star Sign: Gemini Favorite Actor: Amitabh Bachchan Favorite Actress: Hema Malini Favorite Movie: Hum Aapke Hai Kaun My Passion: To create long-term and profitable relationship with our customers I would like to meet US president Barack Obama Tarana is No 1 because it leads and others follow. Tarana is No 1 in covering news, sports and event; very informative and entertaining with a professional talented team. Tarana to me is my heart and soul
Gopal Bhatia
Place of Birth: Khandala, Pune, India Star Sign: Scorpio Favourite Actors: Sanjeev Kumar, Amitabh Bachchan Favourite Actress: Rekha Favourite Movies: Mousam, Aandhi, Abhiman My Passion: Music My Biggest Weakness: Never satisfied with my achievements I would like to meet Rekha Tarana is No1 because we never compromise on quality. Tarana to me is my second home
Linda Christiansen
Place of Birth: Otematata New Zealand Star Sign: Aries Favourite Actors: Leonardo Dicaprio, Richard Gere Favourite Actresses: Both my daughters, who are absolute Drama Queens Favourite Movies: Forrest Gump My Passion: Life My Greatest Strength: My daughters, who keep me at level I would like to meet a very rich, single man Tarana is No1: Because we have quality announcers, quality ads, quality clients and quality listeners Tarana to me is my family away from home!
Neha
Place of Birth: Tripoli, Libya Star Sign: Gemini Favourite Actors: Shahid Kapoor, Ranbir Kapoor, John Abraham, SRK, Abhishek Bachchan. Favourite Actresses: Preity Zinta, Priyanka Chopra. Favourite Movies: Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Dil Chahta Hai, Rang De Basanti. My Passion: Music I would like to meet the hottest and the richest bachelor in the world! Tarana is No1 because it has a great team Tarana to me is my nephew as I consider Robert Khan my elder brother and Tarana is his baby
Azim Riaz
Place of Birth: New Delhi, India Star Sign: Capricorn Favourite Actors: Shah Rukh Khan, Saif Khan Favourite Actresses: Rani Mukherjee, Katrina Kaif, Kareena Kapoor, Tabu Favourite Movies: Anand, Deewar, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge My Passion: To reach the stars My Biggest Weakness: Chocolates I would like to meet all Tarana listeners Tarana is No1 because it creates a musical magic around us Tarana to me is forever
Hemant Parikh
Place of Birth: India Star Sign: Libra Favourite Actors: Amitabh Bachchan, SRK Favourite Actress: Priyanka Chopra Favourite Movie: Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge My Passion: Music and Movies My Greatest Strength: My Smile I would like to meet people who can help to change the world Tarana is No1 because it is blessed by thousands of listeners Tarana to me is like family, friend, child and source of inspiration
Mehak Vashist
Place of Birth: New Delhi, India Start Sign: Sagittarius Favourite Actor: Amir Khan Favourite Actress: Madhuri Dixit Favourite Movies:All comic entertainers, especially Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron and Chashme Baddoor My Passion: My career and healthy living My Biggest Weakness: Yummy vegetarian cuisine from various parts of the world I would like to meet A R Rahman Tarana is No 1 because every day, we discuss how to get better Tarana to me is my home away from home
Nirmal Jit Singh Gahunia

Place of Birth: Punjab, India Star Sign: Leo Favorite Actors: Amitabh Bachchan, SRK Favorite Actresses: Rekha, Hema Malini, Madhuri Dixit, Katrina Kaif Favorite Movies: Humraaz (old), Legend of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Singh Is King My Passion: Broadcasting I would like to meet Indias prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh Tarana to me is a privilege of association since it went to air in 1995.
Donna Young
Place of Birth: Palmerston North, NZ Star Sign: Cancer Favourite Movie: The Hangover (at the moment) My Passion: Laughter, friendships, integrity, food and relaxing bubble bath! My Biggest Weakness: Being sensitive, messy, time management I would like to meet Britney Spears (to show her some life skills and sort her out) Tarana is No1 because it has great range of announcers targeting all listeners, young and old and because of its involvement with the community. Tarana to me flexible, enjoyable and fun. Tarana makes me feel like
Krishna Sharma
Place of Birth: Mumbai, India Star Sign: Pisces Favorite Actors: (the late) Gurudutt, Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan Favorite Actresses: (the late) Meenakumari, Rekha, Madhuri Dixit, Aishwarya Rai Favorite Movies: Kagaz Ke Phool, Upkaar, Kal Ho Na Ho My Passion: Media My Biggest Weakness: Sweets I would like to meet US president Barack Obama Tarana is No 1 because of its innovative programming and loyal listeners Tarana to me is a place of innovation and motivation.
Mona
Place of Birth: India Star Sign: Gemini Favourite Actors: Salman Khan, Shahid Kapoor, John Abraham Favourite Actresses: Katrina Kaif, Kareena Kapoor, Kajol, Rani Mukherjee Favourite Movies: Hum App Ke Hai Kaun; any movie that has comedy, action, romance My Passion: Reading, having Fun, meeting new people and making friends Tarana is No1 because it connects people with their heritage through entertainment Tarana to me is a great way to express my thoughts and reach the wider community
Dr Parmjeet Parmar
Place of Birth: India Star Sign: Leo Favourite Actor: Akshay Kumar Favourite Actress: Kareena Kapoor Favourite Movies: Not sure; keeps changing My Passion: To be a great person always! My Greatest Strength: My strong will power My Biggest Weakness: I get easily bored I would like to meet all of you! Tarana is No1 because we always work hard to meet your expectations and value your views and suggestions
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Pawan Prasad
Place of Birth: Nausori, Fiji Islands Star Sign: Taurus Favourite Actor: Amitabh Bachchan Favourite Actress: Madhuri Dixit Favourite Movie: Devdas My Passion: Radio My Greatest Strength: Honesty My Biggest Weakness: Emotions I would like to meet singer Lata Mangeshkar and US president Barack Obama Tarana is No1 because we believe in quality Tarana to me is my second home
Roopa Suchdev
Place of Birth: New Delhi, India Star Sign: Sagittarius Favourite Actor: Amitabh Bachchan Favourite Actresses: Meena Kumari, Vidya Balan Favourite Movie: Guide My Passion: My work and helping others My Greatest Strength: Love My Biggest Weakness: Inability to say No I would like to meet people who are kind to others and respect others feelings Tarana is No1 because it caters to everyone and a friend available 24/7 Tarana to me is my baby
Sanjesh Narain
Place of Birth: Lautoka, Fiji Islands Star Sign: Libra Favourite Actor: Amitabh Bachchan Favourite Actress: Kajol Favourite Movie: Sholay My Passion: To broadcast the best news and to be a good radio journalist My Greatest Strength: Strong will power My Biggest Weakness: None I would like to meet Satya Sri Sai Baba Tarana is No1 because it is peoples No 1 choice Tarana to me is a platform to enhance my skills in Journalism
Shalend Sharma
Place of Birth: Fiji Star Sign: Pisces Favourite Actors: Ajay Devgan, Sanjay Dutt Favourite Actresses: All the popular stars Favourite Movies: All comedy and action films My Passion: My work My Biggest Strength: My confidence My Biggest Weakness: Beauty I would like to meet all my fans! Tarana is No1 because we have the best of the talent from all over the world Tarana to me is a powerhouse of 100% entertainment
Manish
Place of Birth: Ludhiana Fav Actor: Ranbir Kapoor Fav Actress: Madhu Bala Fav Movie: Andaaz Apna Apna My Passion: Music Strength: Dedication towards work Weakness: Nothing Who would i like to meet: Amitabh and Sachin Tendulkar Tarana is number 1 because: its the best entertainment provider in the world Tarana to me: Everything
Saagar
Place of Birth: Suva, Fiji Star Sign: Capricorn Favourite Actors: Amitabh Bachchan, SRK Favourite Actresses: Kajol, Karisma Kapoor, Sri Devi Favourite Movies:Kal Ho Na Ho and Comedy Movies My Passion: Music and movies My Greatest Strength: My family, friends and new challenges I would like to meet Jim Carrey, Amitabh Bachchan Tarana is No1 because it has the best programmes with the best team of announcers and above all because our listeners give us unconditional love and affection Tarana to me is my dream come true
Sapna
Place of Birth: Sugar City, Fiji Islands Star Sign: Aquarius Favourite Actor: SRK, Arjun Rampal, Saif Ali Khan Favourite Actress: Rani Mukherjee, Waheeda Rehman Favourite Movie: Love Aaj Kal. Guide My Passion: Music My Greatest Strength: My down to earth personality I would like to meet Amitabh Bachchan, SRK Tarana is No 1 because it places listeners first; it is genuine, professional and provides the best source of entertainment Tarana to me is my second Home
Surya Patel
Place of Birth: Suva, Fiji Star Sign: Cancer Favourite Actor: Amitabh Bachchan Favourite Actress: (the late) Smita Patil Favourite Movie: Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge My Passion: Tarana My Biggest Strength: Got Tarana where it is now My Biggest Weakness: Placing myself on last priority I would like to meet US president Barrack Obama Tarana is No 1 because of our hard work and efforts Tarana to me is my Strength
Robert Khan
Place of Birth: Suva, Fiji Islands Star Sign: Capricorn Favorite Actors: Salman, Sharukh, Amir Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Dev Anand, Guru Dutt. Favorite Actresses: Aishwarya Rai, Kajol Favorite Movies: Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge My Passion: My family and the Warriors. I would like to meet US president Barack Obama. Tarana is No 1 because of its loyal Listeners, quality
and original programming, professional announcers with superior command of languages and great teamwork. Tarana to me is a popular world renowned brand and the first ethnic radio station to break into mainstream NZ radio market with 4.9% share, making me a proud father.
Sangeeta Mani
Place of Birth: Tavua, Fiji Favourite Actors: Jeetendra, Akshay Kumar Favourite Actresses: Madhuri Dixit, Rani Mukherjee Favourite Movies: Chori Chori, Dhadkan My Passion: My job My Greatest Strength: My listeners My Biggest Weakness: Pain I would like to meet Mithun Chakraborty Tarana is No 1 because all presenters are treated as No1 staff Tarana to me is as much my radio station as it is yours
Satend Sharma
Place of Birth: Suva, Fiji Islands Star Sign: Scorpio Favorite Actors: Sadashiv Amrapurkar, Ranjeet Favorite Actresses: Preity Zinta, Tun Tun Favorite Movies: All serious movies My Passion: My talent My Greatest Strength: My family My Biggest Weakness: My emotions I would like to meet God Tarana is No 1 because it provides complete entertainment to all age groups Tarana to me is the best Hindi radio station in the world
Salmeen Khan
Place of Birth: Lautoka, Fiji Star Sign: Aries Favorite Actors: Amitabh Bachchan, Ritesh Deshmuk Favorite Actresses: Rani Mukerji,Tulip Joshi Favorite Movies: Hera Pheri, Aawara Paagal Deewana My Passion: Do my best in my profession I would like to meet US president Barack Obama. Tarana is No 1 because everyone loves it ! Tarana to me is family
Jeff Khan
Place of Birth: Labasa, Fiji Star Sign: Aries Favourite actors: Amitabh Bachchan Favourite actresses: Hema Malini My Hobbies: Listing, Music, Billiard, Cooking My Passion: Broadcasting Tarana to me is family Message: Zindagi Ka Dusra Naam Hai Sancha Se Jaari Rakhiye
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Tarana 16th Anniversary
Never a dull moment with Tarana

Sixteen years provide sufficient time for advertisers to assess the impact of using a medium to reach out to their target audience. On that score, Radio Tarana has been a significant partner to hundreds of companies, community groups and event organisers to product their products, services and programmes. They believe that advertising is an essential tool and that Radio Tarana enhances the value of their products and services. Following are some of the messages Radio Tarana received on its entry into 16th year of operations. Global Financial Services Limited Advertising is a powerful medium that can reach across hundreds of thousands of people and Radio Tarana has been one of the most effective channels for us over the years. Radio advertising has to be crisp and yet cover the major aspects of a commercial entity, especially in the service industry. I have always considered advertising on Radio Tarana as one of the most important aspects of marketing and business development. Our association with Radio Tarana has been productive and mutually rewarding and I wish the radio station all success in the years to come. We are proud to have forged a close relationship with the Tarana team. Ajay Kumar, Managing Director Golian Group I take this opportunity in sending our sincere greetings and good wishes to Radio Tarana on its 16th Year of operations. Golian Consultants Ltd and Golian Legal have both been associated with Radio Tarana since its inception. Radio Tarana as an ethnic medium has played a fundamental role in promulgating Indian culture, language and music. Above all, it has provided a variety of religious programmes and discourses and fostered togetherness within the multicultural, multiethnic and multi-religious communities. I compliment this radio station for its invaluable contribution in inculcating the social and moral responsibilities on all ethnic listeners, regardless of their country of birth or origin. I also take this opportunity to commend Radio Tarana and its management for discharging its duties cautiously and impartially as a media facilitator and implore that it continues to do so in the best interest of the community and New Zealand, the country we have all made our home. Harnam Golian, Chasers Food Co Ltd, Golian Consultants Ltd, Golian Kaysons Limited I cannot imagine a day without tuning into Radio Tarana and without advertising what we have to offer our esteemed clients. Indeed, as a customer and a listener, this Radio Station makes my day. Our association with this Radio Station began 12 years ago and since then we have always considered this medium as the most significant to reach our customers. Radio Tarana offers instant channel of communication. I wish Robert Khan and his staff continued success. Yeshwant Solanki, Managing Director Nandos Restaurants My association with Robert Khan goes back beyond the 16 years he has been with Radio Tarana. I still have memories of the days we had to rely on half-hour bulletins on Access Radio every Saturday to listen to a Hindi programme! Radio Tarana changed that situation and it has given me great pleasure to see the station grow nationally and internationally over the years. We have used this radio station for announcing offers, achievements and celebrations. These have generated substantial interest from a wide section of the community in a consistent and professional manner. When we launched Nandos Sylvia Park, relaunched Nandos Botany a few years ago and most recently Nandos Courtenay Place and Nandos Queensgate outlets in Wellington, we chose Radio Tarana to make the announcements. Congratulations to the Tarana Team. Dinesh Prasad, Director Flatbush SuperValue Radio Tarana has given us very good exposure in the Indian community. It was with the help of this radio station that we introduced a Department for Indian Food items in our Supermarket. I must say that the service we received from Tarana through Business Development & International Alliances Manager Krishna Sharma was excellent. He keeps in regular contact with our company and ensures that we are always a satisfied customer. Radio Tarana is a good medium for advertisers who want value for money. Paramjit Dhatt, General Manager RK Cars Pranesh Raniga, Managing Director of R K Cars says advertising on Radio Tarana has worked extremely well for him over the past three years. We have to announce the arrival of fresh consignments of vehicles from time to time and speaking to customers through this Radio Station has been very effective. Tarana provides us immediate access to reach our customers, he said. Vision Asia (NZ) Ltd We have been using Radio Tarana as our primary medium of advertising and we have experienced very good response. The Radio Station has taken giant strides and today it is seen as a major entertainment provider in the South Asian Media Space in New Zealand. The people at Tarana are also wonderful to deal with; they are always friendly and helpful in reaching our target audience. Gurudutt Satigrama, General Manager Travel 2000 Limited Their advertisement has a touch of humour, attracting the attention of listeners. Over the years, Radio Tarana has become the most effective means of communication for Travel 2000 Limited. Says Consultant Sunny Anand: No other radio station enables us to reach the Indian community like Tarana does. The ethnic communities, comprising people of Indian origin, Pakistanis and Bangladeshis are our core market. We are extremely pleased with the results that we get from this radio station, he said.
Bikanervala Restaurant I have found Radio Tarana an effective means of communicating our extensive range of sweets and savouries. While Bikanervala Restaurant in Mt Roskill and the new store in Papatoetoe date back only a few years, my association with Radio Tarana began in 1997 when its team was entertained at my newly opened Kingfisher Restaurant, now known as New Delhi Restaurant. Since then, I have had close interaction with several Tarana personalities. The quality of programmes has improved tremendously. Commercials, news, talkback and community programmes are all of high standard. Today, it is undoubtedly the Number One Hindi Radio in New Zealand. It is hard to imagine what we would be doing without Tarana today. Ashok Sharma, Managing Director Brownsons Jewellers The service of Radio Tarana to the public at large has been second to none, with the team thriving for excellence. The results speak for themselves, in the industry ratings. Keep up this good work. Radio Tarana is the voice of the entire Indian Community. It is informative, educational and entertaining; it is an undisputable business marketing tool. We at Brownsons Jewellers and Memsaab are proud to have affiliation with the Radio Tarana Team. Congratulations on reaching the 16th year. Jay Raniga, Director
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MANUKAU DIWALI FESTIVAL

Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, is the most popular of all the festivals from South Asia, and is also the occasion for celebrations by Jains and Sikhs as well as Hindus. The festival celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance, although the actual legends that go with the festival are different in different parts of India. In a recent editorial, the Times of India summed up the modern meaning of Diwali: "Regardless of the mythological explanation one prefers, what the festival of lights really stands for today is a reaffirmation of hope, a renewed commitment to friendship and goodwill, and a religiously sanctioned celebration of the simple and some not so simple joys of life." The name of the festival comes from the Sanskrit word dipavali, meaning row of lights. Diwali is known as the 'festival of lights' because houses, shops, and public places are decorated with small earthenware oil lamps called Diyas. These lamps, which are traditionally fueled by mustard oil, are placed in rows in windows, doors and outside buildings to decorate them. The lamps are lit to help the goddess Lakshmi find her way into people's homes. They also celebrate the return of Rama and Sita to Rama's kingdom of Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile. Fireworks are also a big part of the Diwali celebrations, although in recent years there has been a move against them because of noise and atmospheric pollution and the number of accidental deaths and injuries. Gifts Like Christmas in the West, Diwali is very much a time for buying and exchanging gifts. Traditionally sweets and dried fruit were very common gifts to exchange, but the festival has become a time for serious shopping, leading to anxiety that commercialism is eroding the spiritual side of the festival. In most years shopkeepers expect sales to rise substantially in the weeks before the festival. Diwali is also a traditional time to redecorate homes and buy new clothes. New Zealand is the most culturally diverse country and Diwali has been embraced by one & all as a festive event. Diwali has gained a national importance in New Zealand and is being celebrated in all major towns as well as in the Parliament We, at Manukau Indian Association, pride ourselves with organising a grand Diwali event every year in Manukau. We bring the communities together and provide a platform for our young artists to perform. This also allows us to work with other organisations. The event started as a concert few years ago but now is a full fledged program of 7-8 hours. There are multiple food & craft stalls of various ethnicities for people to shop at. The cultural program has been rated as one of the finest in recent years This year the Diwali event at Manukau is specially important as it will be celebrated at Telstra Event centre on 16th October, the day of Semi Finals of Rugby world cup The night is black, kindle the lamp of love, with thy life and devotion."
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Radio Tarana with PM John Key in India
Rt Hon John Keys State Visit to India
PM Key and PM Singh at Hydrabad House
I am proud to have covered Prime Minister John Keys state visit to India in June 2011 for Radio Tarana and its tens of thousands of listeners. The Prime Minister John Keys state visit to India from the 26th 30th June at the invitation of Indias Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh was very productive, successful and eventful. During the visit it was perceptible that the two nations shared a great bond and that India has a great found respect for New Zealand. I was privileged to be part of media delegation on previous Prime Ministers state visit to India too in 2004. Prime Minister John Key was accompanied with the Minister of Trade, Hon Tim Groser and Mr Kanwaljit Bakshi Member of Parliament and a high-level business delegation. The main objective of the Prime Ministers visit was to strengthen New Zealands relationship with India and advance New Zealands trade and economic interest with India. This included free trade agreement negotiations, announcing initiatives on closer India-New Zealand cooperation in some specific areas of the bilateral relationship and also to provide support for the accompanying business delegation of 28 -mostly CEOs and Directors - through involvement in key meetings in their programme. To make New Zealands presence in India felt even stronger, former Black Caps Captain and Chennai Super Kings Coach Stephen Fleming was invited by the Prime Minister to join the visit due to his strong connections with India and New Zealands and Indias strong love for cricket. The Prime Minister and his delegates arrived in Delhi on the evening of 26 June 2011 to be warmly welcomed by temperatures of 35 C, thanks to the arrival of the monsoon. The Prime Ministers three day trip started with a visit to the Taj Mahal. Prime Minister Key was amazed by the impressive marvels of the Taj Mahal on his first encounter with this world wonder. After the great excitement of visiting the
Taj Mahal, the official state welcome, Guard of Honour for Prime Minister Key and Mrs Key was greatly looked forward to but that excitement got washed by the rain and instead the official welcome by Indias Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Mrs Singh took place indoors at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. After the official state welcome Prime Minister Key had meetings with many senior political leaders. The Centre-piece Engagement was in the evening at Hydrabad house formal bilateral meeting of Prime Minister Key with Prime Minister Singh. The Prime Minister of New Zealand and India welcomed the increased trade and investment flows between India and New Zealand and noted the potential to expand bilateral trade significantly. Building on existing film industry links, an Agreement on Audio-Visual Co-Production was signed in the presence of the two Prime Ministers. A new Education Cooperation jointly-funded Initiative worth NZ$ 1 million annually was announced by the two Prime Ministers. The two Leaders acknowledged the good cooperation developing in the civil aviation
sector. Prime Minister Key announced that New Zealand will appoint a Defence Adviser to India to better facilitate defence links. Both Prime Ministers strongly condemned all forms of terrorism. Prime Minister Key announced the support of New Zealand for Indias membership in a reformed United Nations Security Council, including in any expansion of permanent membership. The two Leaders agreed to work together towards building stronger sporting ties between the two countries as a means to promoting stronger people-to people links. Prime Minister Key announced a new sports scholarship and an academic exchange programme between India and New Zealand. The programme will include a number of scholarships for Indian students to study sports qualifications in New Zealand universities. During this announcement at Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium he was joined by Stephen Fleming, and students from the Asha Foundation- an NGO working with slum children. Prime Minister Key then played cricket with these children from the Foundation.
Prime Minister Key had his own schedule which was different from the business delegation but Prime Minister attended a main business meeting which was addressed by Prime Minister Key and Indias Commerce Minister Mr Anand Sharma along with others. Indias Minister Sharma stated that India is not short of production but it is the post-harvest waste for which they would like to benefit from the state-of -art technology of New Zealand as part of the free trade deal between New Zealand and India along with various other fields. While in Delhi, Prime Minister Key witnessed signing of two memorandums of understanding. Finzsoft solutions signed an agreement with HCL Technologies and Medtech Global signed an agreement with Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute. During the 3rd day in India while in Mumbai Prime Minister Key announced Indian businessman and Member of Parliament Vijay Mallya to be the next recipient of the Sir Edmund Hillary Fellowship. Vijay Mallya follows Rahul Gandhi who was the recipient of the inaugural Sir Edmund Hilary Fellowship in 2010. While in Mumbai, Prime Minister Key paid tribute to the people who were killed in the November 2008 terrorist attacks. Prime Minister Keys visit to the sets of AbbasMustans upcoming film Players was a great subject of discussion in India. Prime Minister Key gave a customary clap for a shooting of a pretend scene depicted from the movie which was enacted by Bipasha Basu and Abhishek Bachchan. The main focus of Prime Minister Keys visit was to get a step closer in having a quality free trade agreement with India. The relationships established in the areas of technology, defence, tourism, film co-production and education during his visit was a giant step forward. India is the worlds second emerging superpower and Prime Minister Keys state visit to India and his meetings with all playing important role in Indias upper political hierarchy is a clear indication of strengthening of relationship both sides say holds great promise. However, there are some important negotiations that still need to be finished as the interests of the two countries will not always concur before the Free Trade Agreement is signed within the agreed time frame.
By Dr Parmjeet Parmar Radio Tarana
PM playing cricket at Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium.
PM with Bollywood stars.
21
Diwali with the Stars
DIWALI
How do some of the bollywood stars celebrate their diwali? These are their comments:
In Bollywood the film stars and film dignitaries have their own way of celebrating diwali, the festival of lights. The actors and actresses celebrate the occasion with great pomp and show that includes decorating their homes with bright coloured lights and coming to their balconies from time to time to greet their fans who wait outside to catch a glimpse of them. The stars shower blessings to their fans and call out to wish them a happy time for the occasion and a blissful life for the future. The stars who commonly indulge in this tradition are Shahrukh Khan, Salman Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra and others.
BOLLYWOOD
Shahrukh Khan: It is a time to spend at home with my family and some close friends. A special Diwali pooja is a must which is meticulously organised. My two children really enjoy the occasion. My house is always very well decorated and lit with coloured lights. My fans always wait for me outside to wish me well.
Akshay Kumar: I will celebrate it with my family and do pooja in my house for the good of my family, fans and friends.
Kangana Ranaut: I plan to celebrate diwali with my sister and parents and some close friends who will come to visit us. It will be a quiet family affair. We will definitely decorate the house and light it up with lamps. I will try to do rangolis in my house.
Aamir Khan: I would want to spend time during diwali with my family and friends and have a party. I also enjoy visiting the homes of some of my close friends.
Amrita Rao: Diwali is my favourite festival. It is a time when I reunite with my relatives and friends.
Bipasha Basu: The festival of light is a special occasion for me and I always look forward to it. This year it will be no different. I will celebrate it at my home. My intimate friends and relatives, including John Abraham will be present. Diwali is a heart warming occasion for me and in every sense I prefer to keep it a simple, traditional and cohesive get-together for me.
Asin: I will be busy this diwali and in all possibility I will be celebrating the occasion with my flimi friends in the locations where we will be shooting.
Karan Johar: I intend to spend diwali with my mum, and to perform pooja with her. I usually dedicate the entire day to my mum, but later on I visit a few close family members and friends. Salman Khan: It is a great occasion for me, my family, fans and friends. Pooja is organised in my home and after that we celebrate the occasion with a party combined with fun and frolic. Shahid Kapoor: Diwali is a happy occasion for me and i plan to spend time with my family and friends. The day will begin by spending time with my family members. I would really like to commemorate this time with my father, Pankaj Kapoor. Rani Mukherjee: For this occasion I plan to wear a traditional sari for the occasion. Diwali has always been a special festival for me as on this occasion our family get together and I love to give gifts to my loved ones. The diwali rituals are performed according to our Bengali traditions. For bollywood film stars therefore, diwali means pooja, prayers, getting together with family and friends, decorating their homes with rangolis and lights, exchanging gifts and having a fabulous party. To them then these components make up a happy diwali!
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24
Light Treats
Gajar Ka Halwa Pal Poli (Crepes in milk) Pista Burfi Sesame Gajak
Ingredients 1 kg Carrots 1 litre Milk 1 teaspoon Cardamom seeds 3/4 cup Water 3 tablespoons Ghee 2 tablespoons Raisins 2 tablespoons Almonds 2 tablespoons Pistachios 450 grams Sugar Method 1.Wash and grate the carrots. Soak the raisins in water for 30 minutes. Blanch and shred the nuts. 2. Put the water to boil, when it starts boiling add the grated carrots. Cook for 5-7 minutes. 3. Add the milk. Cook on a low flame for 1 hour stirring occasionally. 4. Add sugar, mix well and cook till the sugar has dissolved and all the milk has been absorbed. 5. Add ghee and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Add the slightly crushed cardamoms and the raisins. 6. Mix well. Remove from heat and arrange in a serving dish. Garnish with almonds and pistachios. Serve cold, hot or at room temperature
Ingredients Serves 16 3 cups all-purpose flour water to make a firm elastic dough 1 quart milk 1 cup sugar 10 cardamoms, powdered tsp saffron - soaked in hot water Oil for deep frying almonds, shredded & fried Method 1 Make a firm dough with floor and water. Cover and set aside. 2 Boil milk in a heavy saucepan and keep simmering until thickened and reduced. Add sugar, cardamom and saffron. 3 Meanwhile, divide the dough into 1 to 1- inch-diameter balls and, using flour to dust the board, roll out into a thin 6" round. Fold in half and seal edge with water. Deep fry in hot oil. Drain on paper towel. Poli made. 4 Place polis in a shallow dish. Pour the hot milk over the polis and garnish with almonds. This dessert can be served hot or cold. 5. Take them out of syrup and serve hot.
Ingredients 400 gms Pistachios (kernels removed) 250 gms Sugar Water (for sugar syrup) as required 7-8 leaves Edible Silver foil (varakh) Method 1. Blanch the pistachios in boiling water. Drain and remove the peels. 2. Make a coarse paste of the blanched and peeled pistachios in a mixer-grinder, without using any water. Remove and keep aside. 3. Make a sugar syrup of two-string consistency. 4. In a kadai, mix together the pistachio paste and the sugar syrup, and with the help of a wooden spatula, keep on stirring the mixture till it leaves the sides of the kadai and forms a ball. (take care not to burn the mixture). 5. Pour the mixture over a flat wooden surface, and evenly cut with a spatula to the desired thickness. 6. Spread out the silver foil (varakh), and cut into square shapes with a sharp knife. Remove when cooled.
Ingredients 1 Cup sesame(Til) 2 tbsp Ghee 3/4 Cup jaggery 1/2 tsp Cardamom powder Method 1. Heat a pan and roast sesame seeds on low heat. 2. Keep stirring constantly to avoid it from spluttering. 3. Prepare thick syrup of jaggery by boiling it with 2 cup water. 4. Strain this syrup. 5. Take out the roasted sesame from the pan and add it to the syrup. 6. Spread a thin layer of oil on a rolling board. 7. Spread the sesame-jaggery mixture over oil film. 8. Press it to 1 cm thickness. 9. Cool the mixture sufficiently and cut into square pieces. 10. Til Gajak is ready. 11. Keep it in an airtight container.
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The Festival of Lights Bhel Puri
Bhel puri is a popular Indian snack item. Bhel puri is considered a delicious expression of Indian cuisine all over the world. Bhel puri is low fat, full of zing and nutritious snack food. It is now being assembled in a variety of ways by modern housewives to satisfy the appetites children and adults. However, bhel puri should be mixed just before eating to prevent sogginess in its puffed rice. Bhel puri is a ubiquitous street presence in Mumbai, the commercial capital of India
Ingredients Will serve 3 to 4 people Puffed rice 3 cups Boiled potatoes 2 (peeled and cut in small 1 pcs) Chopped tomato 1 Onion 1 large (finely chopped) Green chilies 2 (finely chopped) Tamarind chutney tsps Mint coriander chutney 1 tsp Garlic chili chutney 1 tsp Coarsely crushed papdi 1 handful (a biscuit like snack made from flour) Barik sev 1 cup (vermicelli type snack made from gram flour) Chopped coriander leaves 1/ 2cup
Method 1. Puffed rice (mudi), papadi and barik sev are all commonly available in Indian shops. Mix the puffed rice, potato, tomato, coriander and green chilies nicely in a large bowl. 2. Add the tamarind chutney, garlic chili chutney and mint coriander chutney according to taste preferences. 3. Garnish well with lots of sev and papdi. Serve and eat immediately to retain the crispness.
Jalebis
Kaju Burfi
Dahi-Bhalle
Ghathiya
Ingredients 2 cups All purpose flour (maida) 11/2 tbsp. fine grained semolina or rice flour 1/4th tsp. baking powder 2 tbsp curd (plain yogurt) 11/4th cups warm water 1/2 tsp. saffron threads, slowly dry-roasted and powdered 3 cups sugar 2 2/3rd cups water 1/2 tsp green cardamom seeds powder 11/2 tbsp. kewra water or rose water Ghee or vegetable oil for frying Method 1. Mix the flour, semolina or rice flour, baking powder, curd and 3/4th cup of the water in a bowl (preferably a ceramic bowl). Mix well with a whisk. 2. Mix well and then add remaining water and 1/8th tsp. of saffron powder, and whisk until smooth. 3. Set aside for about 2 hours to ferment. Whisk thoroughly before use. 4. Prepare string syrup by dissolving sugar in the water. Just before the syrup is ready add saffron and cardamom powder. 5. Heat oil in a kadhai. Pour the batter in a steady stream (or coconut shell with a hole) into the kadhai to form coils. Make a few at a time. 6. Deep fry them until they are golden and crisp all over but not brown. 7. Remove from the kadhai and drain on kitchen paper and immerse in the syrup. 8. Leave for at least 4-5 minutes so that they soak the syrup. 9. Take them out of syrup and serve hot.
Ingredients 2 cups cashewnuts soaked in water for 2 hours 1 cup powdered sugar 1 tbsp. Ghee 1/2 tsp. cardamom powder Silver Varak for decoration Method 1. Drain and blend the cashewnuts to a fine paste. Use as little water aspossible when blending. 2. In a heavy saucepan put sugar and paste. Cook on a medium heat. 3. Keep on stirring continuously till a soft lump is formed. 4. Add ghee and cardamom powder and mix well. Spread on a clean greased work surface. 5. Roll lightly with a rolling pin, to a desired thickness. 6. Apply the silver varak. Cool and cut into diamond shaped burfis.
Ingredients For Bhallas: 1 Cup Urad daal Salt to taste Oil to fry For Dahi: 1 kg Dahi (yogurt) 1/2 tsp Ginger, grated Coriander Leaves, finely chopped 1-2 Green Chilies, chopped Salt to taste 2 tsp Cumin (jeera) Powder, roasted Red Chili Powder, to taste Method For Bhallas: 1. Clean, wash and soak the daal overnight. 2. Grind it into smooth paste. 3. Add salt to taste. 4. Heat oil in a pan and drop a spoonfuls of batter and fry till golden brown. 4. Take the hot Bhallas and put in cold water for 2-3 minutes. 6. Now Take them out of water and squeeze the water and keep aside. For Dahi: 1. Blend the curd (yogurt) and little water until it is smooth. 2. Keep in refrigerator for an hour to get chilled. 3. Add salt, red chili powder and cumin powder. For Serving: 1. In a deep dish arrange bhallas and pour dahi over them. 2. Now add imli (tamarind) chutney and green chutney. 3. Garnish with coriander. Serve chilled.
Ingredients 1/2 kg Wheat Flour 11/2 cups Water 1/2 tsp Ajwain 2 tbsp Oil Oil for frying as required Salt according to taste Method 1.Sieve the wheat flour and rub the oil into it. 2. Then add the salt, Ajwain and mix well. 3. Make a well in the center, add enough water and knead into a stiff dough. 4. Heat oil in a kadhai, to smoking point. 5. Roll out the dough into big size Chapati (flat round Indian bread)and cut it into long strips. 6. Now put these long strips into the hot oil. 7. Remove from the oil when crisp and golden brown in color. 8. Drain on tissue paper, cool and store in airtight containers.
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MISS INDIA WELLINGTON WINNER

She was born in New Zealand and speaks with a broad Kiwi accent, but the new Miss India Wellington will always value the land of her heritage. Madhumitha Ramasubramanian turned 21 two days before the pageant. It was her upcoming birthday that inspired her to enter, she said. Miss Ramasubramanian's parents came to New Zealand from the state of Tamil Nadu.The Victoria University student took the Miss India Wellington 2011 title on Saturday 10th September at Wellington High School. 10th anniversary celebration of Indian elegance, fashion, dance and music will be held in Auckland in April next year. Application for Miss IndiaNZ 2012 pageant is now open to New Zealand residents or citizens with Indian heritage. To apply or for more information txt Rhythm to 4040 or log onto Facebook.com/missindianz
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Tarana in Wellington
24/7 Indian Radio makes History in Wellington

Residents of Wellington region and surrounding areas now have the pleasure of having an Indian Radio Station of their own, with the launch of 105.3 FM frequency by Radio Tarana recently. Visitors to the Capital also tell us that they can now hear news bulletins, songs and talkback shows as they drive through the City or sit back and enjoy a drink or a meal in the comfort of their hotel and home. The launch of the round-the-clock Wellington Frequency fulfils a long cherished dream of offering our quality products and services throughout the country in stages. I am extremely pleased with the encouraging response that we have received from advertisers and listeners in the Wellington region and I am confident that with their support and patronage, the Radio Station will grow from strength to strength, providing the same standard of service that our patrons enjoy in the greater Auckland region. With an audience target of 30,000 listeners, the Wellington frequency (105.3 FM) will be an extension to the family of Tarana advertisers and listeners. The facility incorporates a fully operational studio with a mix of Auckland and Wellington programmes. This new facility, coming as it did in times of recession, is reinstatement of our commitment to provide quality programmes and services to our patrons. It also reinforces our commitment to create a strong portal for the Indian community in Wellington and make Tarana their local Indian radio. The frequency will engage with the local community with breakouts into Auckland broadcast. The content will entail local engagement with Wellington organisations, iwi and the local and central Governments. Positive Impact The launch of the Wellington 24/7 frequency has had it positive impact, the most important of which is the inquiries being received from Auckland based businesses who are keen to open branches in the Capital. They would now be able to effectively communicate with a captive audience. Radio Tarana is a station that combines team effort to offer the best to our extended family of advertisers, listeners and wellwishers, not only in New Zealand but also increasingly in other parts of the world, notably Fiji. As a team, our staff work together and debate on programmes and other issues to improve, improvise and deliver as a team. Each of us has areas of responsibilities, targets and tasks. We share credits as a team, while as the Managing Director, I accept the blame for lapses and shortcomings. Awards & Citations Professional and trade bodies and other organisations have, in recent years, found us worthy of awards, citations and accolades. We received the Special Recognition Award for Community Broadcasting at the annual Radio New Zealand Awards 2008. During the same year, our Presenter Satend Sharma received the Best Foreign Language Programme Award, the first ever by an Indian broadcaster. Ajeshni Kumar and the Sales Team were declared Runner Up for the Sales Person of the Year Award twice consecutively in 2009 and 2010. Radio Tarana also won in the Community Promotion Category this year (2011). It is a matter of gratification that over the past four years, Radio Tarana has been creating broadcasting history by recording a large increase in its listenership to become one of the top 10 radio stations in the Greater Auckland Region. Top Position A recent Research International New Zealand Survey, found that overall, Radio Tarana has 4.7% share of all commercial radio listening in Auckland, a higher market share than many other Auckland commercial stations. It also achieved the status of for the highest time spent listening Auckland station (10 hours 26 minutes weekly). Each week, Radio Tarana accounts for 66,200 different listeners tuning in Auckland. We have also retained the No 1 spot as the premier Language Broadcaster in the country. This survey is the benchmark of any radio stations position in the Auckland market and this result is a true and independent reflection of the stations position among all its competitors in the Indian and language broadcasting sector. As we step into our 16th year, I wish to express my gratitude to our advertisers, sponsors, well-wishers, my team at Radio Tarana and most important of all, our listeners for their support and patronage since the first words went on air 16 years ago. Listener is a strange word. In fact, we should be called the Listener, because we listen to you all the time, assimilate your views, desires and wants and honour them wherever possible. Robert Khan is the Managing Director of Radio Tarana based in Auckland. Source : Indian Newslink
AUCKLAND 1386AM
www.tarana.co.nz
WELLINGTON 105.3FM
Global Engagement Critical for Success

New Zealanders must adopt a united approach with the right attitude and engage themselves collectively with the outside world to ensure success in the 21st Century and beyond, an expert in international affairs has said. We need to look out, engage ourselves with businesses and people in other countries and be a part of the world. The success or failure of New Zealand as a country will not be determined here but out there, where the world meets, Foreign Affairs & Trade Ministry Secretary and Chief Executive John Allen said. He was the Guest Speaker at the Panworld Travel Mangere sponsored inaugural Indian Newslink Sir Anand Satyanand Lecture held at Stamford Plaza Hotel on July 4, 2011. According to him, although many would say that they are incredibly and extraordinarily interconnected with the world, the reality was different. The truth is that New Zealand fails to understand or engage with the contemporary world. We are not building the capacity for our business or our people to engage in the world in which our success depends. There is no place for xenophobia. We must celebrate our cultural diversity, he said. Global Exposure Imperative Although he did not name groups, politicians or parties that were averse to keeping New Zealand open to international businesses, his stand on contemporary issues, which are being debated in public, was apparent. It is critically important that we challenge those who say that we do not want international investment. Without international investment, we do not have a future. We must challenge those who say they do not want Free Trade. We must also challenge those who say we do not need skills from offshore. We must challenge those who circle the wagons, he said. Throughout his 40-minute speech, which he delivered extempore without referring to any notes or resorting to visual effects, Mr Allen paid tribute to Governor General Rt Honourable Sir Anand Satyanand and Lady Susan Satyanand, saying that they were role models, representing New Zealand and New Zealanders at international events and occasions. They have been absolutely at the heart of New Zealands international engagement. They have been at the heart, not simply in the travelling that they have done around the world on our behalf but at the heart in the simple statements that they have made about the importance of diversity. We must salute their consistent, dignified approach in attacking racism and xenophobia as it emerged in this country, he said. Lecture Principles Ravin Lal, Managing Director & Publisher of Indiana Publications (NZ) Limited, which owns the Indian Newslink brands, hoped that Indian Newslink Lecture would become an annual feature. The Lecture series has been designed to promote Accountability, Transparency, Integrity and Good Governance, which are enshrined in the life and career of Sir Anand and Lady Susan, he said. In his speech, Sir Anand said these values, dear to him, were not any birthright but were grounded in the values of parents, formed and shaped through education and through interaction with peers, colleagues and role models. My parents instilled the importance of integrity in a professional life. That formed a core for the approach I adopted in public service. The quest in public service remains accountability, transparency and good governance, he said. Sir Anand said Mr Allen and his team were charged with operating a network of embassies throughout the world, and providing strategic advice to the Government on matters of New Zealands international relations. The role holds the formal title of Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Secretaries, in other guises, write agendas, take notes and keep minutes. John is one speaker who does none of the above. If there are any notes, they will most likely be scribbled on the back of his menu or a business card, he said. Wellington based Belly Gully Public Law Consultant Rt Hon Paul East was the Master of Ceremonies, while Labour MP Dr Rajen Prasad and Ignition Partner Limited Executive Director Chad Wilkie commented on the Lecture. Among those who attended the Lecture were National MP Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, Indian High Commissioner Admiral Sureesh Mehta, Teresa Mehta, Act Party Leader Dr Don Brash, Je Lan Brash, former Auckland Mayor John Banks, Amanda Banks, Judges of High Courts and District Courts, Barristers, Lawyers, businesspersons and others. By Venkat Raman - Indian Newslink
From left Ravin Lal, Sureesh Mehta, Dr Rajen Prasad, Sir Anand Satyanand, Lady Susan Satyanand, Nimesh Amin, Managing Director Panworld Travel Mangere, John Allen, Teresa Mehta and Rt Hon Paul East.
29
Entertainment
Bollywood Invades New Zealand

2011 saw the biggest Bollywood multi - star cast visit New Zealand to shoot the movie Players ( remake of the 2003 American film, The Italian Job). The movie is directed by the talented brothers Abbas & Mustan. It is one of the most awaited Bollywood movies for year 2012. The star cast of Players include Bipasha Basu, Abhishek Bachchan, Sonam Kapoor, Bobby Deol, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Omi Vaidya, Johnny Lever and Sikander Kher. Hemant Parikh (a Radio Tarana personality) caught up with the Starts on the sets in Auckland.Actor Sikander Kher said I am so lucky to be in the same frame with these stars who have done more films than me. The biggest surprise on set was Omi Vaida (aka Chatur from blockbuster film 3 idiots). He loved working on the film and was very bubbly on the set. Omi stayed back in NZ with his wife for extra days to catch the sights of NZ. Omi said NZ is a beautiful country this is my first trip but certainly wont be last. Neil Nitin Mukesh did most of his shooting in Wellington. He went sight seeing in Queenstown with his Singer Father Nitin Mukesh son of late singer Mukesh. Johnny Lever who has acted in almost all of Abbas Mustans films was on the set for 4 days. He has a comic role in the film as an indian with a European wife and twin gora (European) kids. Bipasha Basu spoke to Radio Tarana before departing Auckland and said that she thoroughly enjoyed working in this film. She has high regard for Abbas Mustan with whom she had done her first film Ajnabee.. Bipasha was surprised with the large number of fans in Wellington. Abhishek Bachchan celebrated his birthday in Wellington where he was joined by his beautiful wife, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Abhis birthday was on the 5th of February. He was also excited to spend Valentines Day in Auckland with his wife. Abhishek has visited NZ before - in 2001, he was here to shoot for Bas Itna Sa Khwaab Hain. In 2003, he came for the shooting of Mein Prem Ki Deewani Hoon. Radio Tarana will bring exclusive interviews with all the stars closer to the release of the movie. The Film is set for a big opening in NZ on the 6th of January 2012.
30
DIWALI THALI D E C O R AT I O N
A Puja Thali is a metal plate, usually made up of copper, brass, steel, silver and sometimes even gold, in which are kept all those accessories (puja samagri) that are required to perform the puja (worship) of the many Hindu Gods and Goddesses. During Diwali, Hindus worship Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Ganesh, the God of auspicious beginnings, to usher in wellbeing and prosperity to individual homes. The Diwali Puja Thali is vital to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi and her brother Lord Ganesh, and that worshipping or prayer is an integral part of Diwali celebrations. Offering prayers is done with great dedication and devotion in all religions and the Puja Thali is an inherent part of performing the prayer rituals among Hindus. It is required during the worship of Lord Ganesh and Goddess Lakshmi (the deities associated with Wealth and Prosperity) through Aartis, or prayer songs. A typical Diwali Thali consists of scared ingredients for Hindu worship like unbroken rice grains (Akshat), rice paste, roli for tilak (a sacred coloured mark drawn on the forehead), sweets and seasonal fruits for prasad (food offering to God), incense sticks (Dhoop /Agarbatti), sandalwood paste, camphor (kaphur), coconut (narial), betel leaves (Paan patta), a small pot filled with water (Kalash), gold or silver coins with images of Hindu holy symbols (Om, Swastik or Shree), candles (Mombatti), aarti-diya (lamp for worship), a hand bell (Ghanti), sacred crimson string (Kalava or mouli) to tie around the wrist, and petals of some colourful flowers. These are the items that the women hold in both their hands throughout the period of worship (Puja). A Diwali Puja Thali is a plate, generally made out of copper or occasionally gold, that is utilized to store all those accessories that are necessary during the worship of Lord Ganesh and Goddess Lakshmi. Adorned Diwali Puja Thalis having all the Puja accessories can be bought readymade from the market but the contentment and the delight of decorating this exceptional Thali by ones own hands produces in an individual a sense of divine feeling. It gives immense joy, satisfaction and pleasure to decorate one yourself. And it fills you with enchantment and a spiritual feeling while you invoke divine blessings for yourself and your loved ones. The diverse accessories are placed quite beautifully on the Thali, which the womenfolk of the house carry in their hands. Thus the Puja Thali has great importance for the Diwali celebrations in which the worship of Goddess Lakshmi is the central theme. Adorning the Puja Thali is one of the most interesting activities to perform on Diwali day. It needs great care, patience and meticulous
attention to detail in order to aesthetically arrange and decoratively place all the necessary items for worship on the thali. During Diwali, this has traditionally been done since ancient times by the womenfolk in Indian families. The Thali decoration is a vital aspect of the Diwali rituals and hence, much care is taken in assembling together all the items needed for decorating the thali. Kids in the Hindu families greatly enjoy decorating the thali and consider it a privilege to receive the permission to do so. However, just before the puja it is up to the ladies of the home to ensure that the thali is in proper order; for it must remembered, that all items on the plate are actually sacred offerings to the deities. The beautifully designed Diwali Puja Thalis are simply indispensable in performing worship during the festival of lights. This is how you can decorate traditionally a typical Diwali Puja Thali: 1) Take a thali of gold, silver, steel, copper, brass or any other metal of your choice. The shape can be round, oval or any other mould of your preference. 2) Take some roli in a small bowl and mix a little water in it to make a paste and draw
with it religious symbols such as 'Om', 'Swastik' or 'Shree' or images of deities in the middle of the plate. 3) Cover the entire plate with bright coloured piece of cotton cloth having a traditional print (traditional Rajasthani prints look just great) or designer gift wrap paper sheet. Then draw traditional designs over it. Play up the corners of the plate with some lace or zari (a type of thread made of fine gold or silver wire) of a colour that is in contrast to the base. You can also glue glitter and golden sequins to decorate the thali. 4) Deck up the thali with green betel leaves, which will make it look beautiful. Then put the sundry puja accessories on the thali in the right manner to make it look elegant. 5) Finally, cover the puja thali with petals of marigold, rose or any other flower used in sacred Hindu festivals. Decorate various designs with single colour petals or a combination of different rangoli colours.

Tarana Diwali Paper 2011

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DIWALI INNEW ZEALAND 2011

SPECIAL MESSAGES FOR DIWALI

Rt. Hon John Key

Rt. Hon John Key Prime Minister of New Zealand

Len Brown Mayor of Auckland

DIWALI INNEW ZEALAND 2011

The Festival of Lights

DIWALI INNEW ZEALAND 2011

Highlights at the Auckland and Wellington Diwali Festival 2011

Masters of dance from Manipur

SPECTACULAR SAND SCULPTURES

DIWALI INNEW ZEALAND 2011

SPECIAL MESSAGE FOR DIWALI FROM NATIONAL PARTY MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT

Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi

DIWALI INNEW ZEALAND 2011

SPECIAL MESSAGE FOR DIWALI FROM LABOUR PARTY MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT

Hon. Phil Goff

Hon David Cunliffe

Dr Rajen Prasad Labour Member of Parliament

MESSAGE FOR DIWALI FROM ASIA:NZ FOUNDATION

DIWALI INNEW ZEALAND 2011

SPECIAL MESSAGE FOR DIWALI FROM OTHER POLITICAL LEADERS

Rt Hon. Winston Peters

Don Brash Leader of the ACT Party

Rt. Honourable Winston Peters Leader of NZ First

SPECIAL MESSAGE FOR DIWALI FROM AUCKLAND COUNCILLORS

DIWALI INNEW ZEALAND 2011

SPECIAL MESSAGE FOR DIWALI FROM THE ORGANISERS

Happy Diwali 2011

Robert Khan Chief Executive Officer - Radio Tarana

Anand Naidu JP President of Waitakere Indian Association

Ranjna Patel President of Manukau Indian Association

SPECIAL MESSAGE FOR DIWALI FROM AUCKLAND COUNCILLORS

DIWALI INNEW ZEALAND 2011

The Festival of Lights

DIWALI INNEW ZEALAND 2011

The Festival of Lights

DIWALI INNEW ZEALAND 2011

The Festival of Lights

DIWALI INNEW ZEALAND 2011

The Festival of Lights

EasyCall Announces Sponsorship of Diwali Festival of Lights 2011

DIWALI INNEW ZEALAND 2011

The Festival of Lights

WAITAKERE INDIAN ASSOCIATION

The Aces Summer of Cricket

DIWALI INNEW ZEALAND 2011

The Festival of Lights

Ajeshni Raj Kumar

Nirmal Jit Singh Gahunia

DIWALI INNEW ZEALAND 2011

The Festival of Lights

DIWALI INNEW ZEALAND 2011

Tarana 16th Anniversary

Never a dull moment with Tarana

DIWALI INNEW ZEALAND 2011

The Festival of Lights

MANUKAU DIWALI FESTIVAL

DIWALI INNEW ZEALAND 2011

Radio Tarana with PM John Key in India

Rt Hon John Keys State Visit to India

PM Key and PM Singh at Hydrabad House

By Dr Parmjeet Parmar Radio Tarana