eSamachar - Ontario Konkani Association

eSamachar
Volume 29 - Issue April/May 201 5
In this Issue:
President's Message.....1
Note from VPs...............2
Hanuman Jayanti..........3
Ugadi Pix.......................5
Blood Donation.............6
Newcomers...................7
5th CIL Pix...................1 0
eS Editorial Board........11
Famous Konkanis........1 2
Tribute.........................1 4
Pooja Pix.....................1 5
Seniors Forum.............1 6
Ruuchi Randap............22
Miscellaneous..............23
Modi Feedback............24
Dodda Mane................27
Contact Us:
[email protected]
Facebook us at :
'Ontario Konkani Association'
Sponsors:
Presidents' Message
This is the second last issue of the All New eS, as our term winds down, and it was
not my intention to produce a massive tome, at almost 30 pages. However we
have been fortunate to be ‘inundated’ with content, and after all, this is a two
month (Apr/May) issue. So sit down, relax, scan through it once and mentally
bookmark the articles you will read on your subsequent visits to this bumper issue
of eS. It features lots of OKA Events Pix - I encourage you to check out the
complete albums on our website and FB page.
With the transformation of the eSamachar to its current avatar - as an interactive
and action packed medium of communication/information, built on a platform of
high quality technology and production values, it is no longer possible for the
Presidents to bear sole responsibility for its creation. Accordingly, I have proposed,
and the EC has accepted the suggestion of forming an eS Editorial Board, for
which OKA member candidates are required – see ”Volunteers Needed..” inside.
We have had two well attended OKA events - 5th C&L Workshop and
Satyanarayana Pooja in the recent past. We are proud to inform that there has
been a dramatic increase in interest in the C&L event, with several non Konkani
Associations sending large contingents. It remains our continuing aspiration to
attract more Konkanis for furture C & L events. The next EC will reach out to you
early in the year, to learn your expectations from the Workshop, and shape the
content accordingly.
OKA had the privilege of being represented by a huge contingent (perhaps the
largest among community associations) at Indian PM Narendra Modi’s Community
Reception on April 1 5, 201 5. Their appreciation finds voice in the feedback
Page 1
published in this issue.
Even as the IPL final was being played in Kolkata today, our very own enthusiastic band of cricketers
were breaking a sweat, practising hard for the KonCanadian version, the 2nd KPL, on Sat June 6th.
We have re-engineerd the format to balance the talent between various teams, evocatively named as
Amchi Royals (Capt Vinayak Shanbhag), Dorke Kings (Capt Kash Nayak) & Kokke Knights
(Capt Shashi Nayak). We want to make this to a Fun Event for the Entire Family, and not just for the
players. Our Youth Coordinators have promised to rise to the challenge, and provide some
‘excitement’ at the boundary line. Think Pom Poms & Cheerleaders!! Come and see for yourself; not
just that - but be prepared to shake a hip and a leg – our YCs will train you on the spot! Support KPL
201 5 @ Oakville Cricket Ground on Sat 6th June from 1 0.30 a.m.onwards @ 2279 Eighth Line.
OKA Ladies, book your seats for the Day Trip to Centre Island on Saturday June 1 3th. Contact
[email protected] (41 6 648 9861 ).
Finally, the fact that we have been able to fill ALL the positions on
the next EC months before the picnic/AGM, for the 2nd year in a
row - is a sure sign of the maturity of our Association, and proof that
Members see value in being part of a successful EC. Also, that the
word has gotten around about how much fun it is being an EC
Member!!!
Ajay & Chitra
A Note from the VP's
Vanita and I are delighted to announce the names of the joint office
bearers that will join the OKA’s EC for the 201 5-1 6 year, and who will
then take over the mantle for the 201 6-1 7 year:
They are :
1.
Kashinath and Kasturi Nayak - Vice Presidents
2.
Narendra and Niveditha Kamath – Joint Entertainment
Coordinators
3.
Vinayak and Deepali Shanbhag – Joint Food Coordinators
4.
Prasad and Shilpa Ganguli– Joint Secretary/Treasurers
5.
Sachin and Sadhana Rao – Joint Webmasters
6.
Neha Kamath , Aparna Udiaver, Diya Kamath, Deeksha Nayak – Joint Youth Coordinators
Sujeet and Vanita
As you will all agree this is quite the DREAM TEAM and please join me in welcoming them to the EC!
Page 2
Our Culture Our Festivals
Hanuman Jayanti
By Sadanand Mankikar
This year the Hanuman Jayanti, birthday of
Hanumanji fell on Saturday April 04 which by Hindu
calendar was Chaitra Shuddha Purnim. In
Maharashtra, Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated in the
Chaitra month whereas in Kerala & Tamil
Nadu it is celebrated in the Margashirsha.
Whereas, in Andhra Prades, Karnataka
and Orissa, it is celebrated on the 1 0th
day of Vaisakha Krishna Paksha. Some
communities celebrate it during Diwali.
Hanuman Jayanti celebration indicates
the balanced coexistence of the human
with nature’s incredible creature, Lord
Hanuman from Vanara community and
Hindus worship him as a divine creature.
born to them as Hanuman. Hanuman is believed to be
the 11 th incarnation of Shiva. It is also said that Lord
Shiva was a devotee of Lord Rama but as a God he
could not worship Rama so he incarnated as
Hanuman and spent his entire life in the
service of Rama and Sita. He remained a
batchelor.
As per another legend, a saint named
Angira once went to visit Indra who
welcomed him with a dance by beautiful
Punjiksthala. However, Angira was in deep
meditation. It was insulting to Punjiksthala
who expressed her displeasure to the saint
who in turn cursed her by saying that she
would be born as a female monkey in the forests.
When she repented, the merciful saint blessed her
Hanuman Jayanti is an occasion to remember
Hanuman's devotion and service to Lord Rama. He with the boon that a great devotee of Rama will be
located Sita in Ashoka Vatika where Ravana had hid born to her. She became the daughter of Kunjar, the
king of the monkeys and got married to the
her, burnt Lanka, built a bridge to Lanka
Kapiraj Kesari of the Mount Sumeru. She
and led a monkey army in the fight against
gave birth to the Hanuman with the help of
Ravana. He also carried mountain Dronagri
five divine factors - curse and blessings of
with magical herb Sanjivani to restore the
the saint Angira, her prayers, blessings of
life of Lakshman. He rescued the
Lord Shiva, blessings of Vayu deva and
Navagrahas from the trap of Ravana. In
Putreshti Yagna’s fruit.
return, Navagrahas blessed Hanuman with
the boon that the ill-effects of all the
Hanuman is known by many names
planets can be reduced by praying to
including Ramabhakta, Rama Dhoota,
Hanuman. After the war with Ravana,
Hanumant, Mahavir, Maruti, Anjaneya,
Hanuman returned to Ayodhya and devoted
Pavan Putra, Anjani Suta, Bhajrangi, Sankat Mochan,
his entire life to Lord Rama.
Kesari Nandan, Rudra. He is revered by body builders
Hanuman is the son of Anjana, who was an Apsara. and wrestlers. He is the embodiment of courage, selfDue to a curse, she was born on earth as a female control, victory, selfless service, bravery, integrity and
monkey. Kesari was Hanuman’s father. Both Anjana humility. He is the greatest follower of Rama. In many
and Kesari worshiped Lord Shiva with full devotion pictures he is depicted with open chest with the idol of
and intense penance. As a result, Lord Shiva was Rama and Sita in the place of his heart.
Page 3
In India, in every nook and corner, there are temples for Hanuman. In many places they have either small
Gudis or just a stone statue under a tree. In most of the temples the idol is reddish orange as it is believed
that Hanuman was born with a reddish orange body. According to another belief, when Sita was applying
sindoor, upon asking by Hanuman, she told him that she was applying it for the longevity of her husband
Rama. She also told him that the more sindoor she applies, the longer Rama will live. As an ardent devotee
of Rama, he smeared sindoor on his entire body so that Rama would become immortal. Therefore, idols of
Hanuman are always smeared with sindoor.
To celebrate Hanuman Jayanti, people generally go to the temple, apply sindoor to the Hanuman idol, offer
sweets, read Hanuman Chalisa and perform aarti. Then they apply sindoor on their own forehead and
distribute sweets as prasad. Some men fast on Hanuman Jayanti. Some places, skits depicting the bravery
and courage of Hanuman are played. Wrestlers and body builders organize games and competitions.
On Saturdays, there is generally a huge line up in front of the Hanuman Temples to worship him by offering
oil, sindoor, coconut, agarbatti and garland of rui (milkweed) leaves. It is believed that when carrying
Dronagri, Bharat, Rama’s brother, struck him with an arrow causing a wound on his feet which was cured
with oil and sindoor hence these are used in his worship. The rui tree is considered to be a transformation
of the Sun and has the maximum capacity of creating Divine consciousness in the Idol of Hanuman.
Hanuman Chalisa is a classic 40 stanza poem authored by 1 6th-century saint Tulasidas in the Awadhi
language in praise of Hanuman sung by his devotees, especially, on Saturdays. It is believed that reciting
Hanuman Chalisa brings health, wealth, success and it helps in overcoming fears of all kind.
Page 4
UgadiPictures -March28,2015
Page 5
Konkani Blood Donor
Required Blood Transfusion
By Ravi Pai
I am a firm believer in voluntary blood donation. I
will never forget my first and last donation of my
blood - first was in India in 1 972 for my own
younger brother, late Shri Baburaya Pai who was
undergoing a surgery at K.E. M Hospital in
Mumbai. The last one was on January 31 , 1 992 in
Toronto. This was also the last day of my career
as a banker. I will never forget these two days in
my life.
The day I donated blood for my own brother, I had
decided that I would continue to donate blood on a periodical basis as long as I could. I am very proud
to say that I had donated blood in Mumbai, Hong Kong and in Toronto. I used to visit the blood donation
centres periodically, at least once in three to four months. I am not an expert to write about advantages
of donating blood – but I can say this from my own experience that after you donate blood, you feel
great as you have donated something which is in you and it would help someone who is in dire need.
God has created a mechanism in your body which replenishes the blood you have given. It is quite
apparent that God encourages us to donate blood frequently.
After my donation in January 1 992, due to heart condition, regretfully, I am not allowed to donate blood
any more even though I so very much wish to. Having donated blood for so many years it has been a
great disappointment to me.
When I was donating blood, it never occurred to me that one day I would need blood. In 201 2, when I
was told that I have to be transfused a few units of blood, I started crying thinking that I am taking
someone else’s blood when I cannot give mine. Since then I had several transfusionsN..the last being
in late March 201 5. May be a few of these units of blood are from my own Konkani friends who have
been donating their blood in Toronto and surrounding areas. I will never know who you are N. but thank
you my Konkani friends, for your generous gesture. My family also join me in thanking you.
I am sharing my personal experience only with a view of encouraging my friends to donate blood as
often as you can as you will never know when you need it for yourself or for your family member or
someone you love. May be another Konkani will get the benefit of your donation. You lose nothing by
donating blood – but you gain a lot – blessings from the person who receives it and from their family
and friends.
(Ravi Pai a long time Life Member of OKA was its President in 1 991 -1 992)
Page 6
Page 7
Page 8
Page 9
4thCandLWorkshop -April25,2015
Page 1 0
Volunteers Needed for eS
Editorial Board
Back in 1 988 when it all started
there were a very few Konkani
families in and around Toronto and it
took hardly an hour for one person
to call all of them for a get together.
When KAO membership picked up,
a newsletter - KAO Samachar came
in being. Over time, it became the
eSamachar, serving as a mouth
piece of EC and has remained as a
function of the President.
With the exponential increase in membership/activities and change in demographics, interests of the members
not only varied but also multiplied. When I took over the Presidency, it was my aspiration to take the eS to the
next level, and I beleive we have had some success, thanks to inputs/support from members and importantly,
the role of Amol Rao in raising 'production' quality and standards. That takes a lot of time and effort, and I
realised that the community's (and future Presidents') purpose would be best served by 'out-sourcing' the task,
going forward.
Taking this into consideration, and to give an opportunity to the members to participate in the production of
eSamachar, the 201 4-1 5 Executive Committee has decided to set up a quasi permanent Editorial Board of
minimum 3 to 5 members, always including "current" EC participation. It is hoped that this Board will have
representation from ALL segments of OKA, including youth, seniors etc so that the eSamachar will be
representative of everyone’s interest.
Working closely with the OKA EC/President, this Board will be responsible for producing periodic newsletter
covering the following:
President’s message
OKA Events/Activities
Other Events/Activities of interest to OKA members, including Special Interest Forums
Happenings in our community such as graduation, promotion, birth, death, relocation etc.
In addition, the a member of board will be responsible for the collection of articles, compilation of the newsletter
and overall production. The role offers the opportunity to develop your editorial skillset such as writing, graphics
and design. No previous experience is necessary and we strongly encourage anyone interested to apply! This
type of skill will be useful in the future as we move towards an online, graphics heavy world where content is
constantly created and consumed.
It is hoped that the Editorial Board will be in place by/during the AGM and the first issue of year 201 5-1 6 eS will
be produced by this team. Inviting interested Members to contact Ajay/Chitra Rao ([email protected]) or
Sujeet/Vanita Kini (skini1 [email protected]) by June 1 5, 201 5.
Page 11
Famous Konkanis
Padmabhushan K.V.
Kamath
By Sadanand Mankikar
Padmabhushan Sri
Kundapur Vaman Kamath
for his tireless efforts and
continuous contributions
to the North American
Konkani Community.
North American Konkani Association 201 5
Mr. Kundapur Vaman Kamath, Chairman of the
Board of Infosys and ICICI Bank had supported a
number of Konkani Sammelans financially as well as
by his presence. A towering figure both in stature
and fame, he is a very friendly person. During the
Konkani Sammelan held in Hamilton in 2006, before
leaving the venue he sought out Chairs of the
Committees to thank and congratulate personally for
their hard work.
CNBC-TV1 8 Indian Business Icons stated that
N..The word ‘legendary’ and ‘banker’ rarely go
together, but when it comes to KV Kamath, they
seem to make a natural fit. In a career that spans 4
decades and is still not over, he has transformed a
small bank into India’s second largest lender, N. and
as if making banking history wasn’t enough, he also
holds a high position of responsibility in Infosys, one
of India’s leading IT companies.
direction that the ICICI Group was converted into a
specialized, technology based financial organization
that deals in banking, insurance and asset
management in India. It has also become an
international company. He gave ICICI a strong
international foothold with foreign assets in excess of
$1 3 billion. Thus, with his hard work, devotion and
intelligence he achieved popularity on both national
and international levels.
Born in Mangalore in 1 947, he finished his primary
and intermediate education from St. Aloysius School
and pursued his Mechanical Engineering degree
from the Karnataka Regional Engineering College,
Surathkal. In 1 969, he finished a Master's Degree in
Business Administration from the Indian Institute of
Management, Ahmedabad. Later on he received
Honorary PhD degree from the Banaras Hindu
University.
Mr. Kamath began his career in 1 971 at ICICI. In
1 988, he moved to Asian Development Bank in
Manila and spent several years in Southeast Asia
before returning to ICICI as its Managing Director
and CEO in 1 996. He retired as the Managing
Director and CEO of ICICI Bank in April 2009, and
took up his present position as Chairman of the
Board. He joined Infosys Board in May 2009 and
took charge in August 2011 as Chairman of the
He is a leading personality of the finance sector in
Board. Effective 11 October 201 4, he is designated
India. He has modernized the banking sector in India as a non-executive Chairman of Infosys Board.
with his innovative concepts of 'Universal Banking'
and proper management of employees. A dynamic
In 2008, Mr. Kamath was conferred with the Padma
leader, who moves swiftly into action mode once a
Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honors. He
strategy is in place, with ICICI bank he established a has received widespread recognition internationally
culture of going from drawing board to market in 90 and in India, including being named ‘Businessman of
days. It was because of his contributions and
the Year’ by Forbes Asia, ‘Business Leader of the
Page 1 2
Year’ by The Economic Times in 2007, and CNBC’s ‘Asian Business Leader of the Year’ in 2001 . Other
awards to his credit include Banker of the Year, Business Standard (2006); Outstanding Business Leader of
the Year, CNBC-TV1 8 (2006); Businessman of the Year, Business India (2005); Most e-savvy CEO amongst
Asian Banks – The Asian Banker Journal of Singapore; Finance Man of the Year Award – The Mumbai
Management Association and Best CEO for Innovative HR Practices – World HRD Congress
He was President of the Confederation of Indian Industry from 2008 to 2009. He is also on the Board of
Directors of Houston based Schlumberger Limited, Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Indian
Institute of Management Indore, and a member of the Board of Governors of Pandit Deendayal Petroleum
University. He has been a co-chair of the World Economic Forum's annual meetings in Davos. Kamath is a
member of the Governing Boards of the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, National Institute of
Bank Management and the Gandhinagar Manipal Academy of Higher Education.
It is with great pride and pleasure we salute Mr. K. V. Kamath through the “Famous Konkanis” column in the
e-Samachar.
STOP PRESS: Mr. K. V. Kamath has been elected as the chief of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and
South Africa) Development Bank which is aimed at funding infrastructure projects in developing nations. Its
head office is based in Shanghai, China and. At the BRICS summit in Brazil last year India was accepted as
the head of this development bank for the next six years followed by five years terms by Brazil and Russia.
Food for Thought:
Ask not what the world
needs. Ask what makes you
come alive...
.
Because what the world
needs is
.
do it
then go
people who
have come alive
Page 1 3
A tribute to our Ajja
H Sudhakar Kamath - 1 5th June 1 927- 4th May 201 5
By Shwetha & Sanjana Kamath
Akka and I are very blessed children, and we have many things that we cherish
about him. Our Ajja was one man that we loved and respected since we were little.
Even though there was an ocean between us, and a long 1 5 hour flight before we
could see him in person, we never lost touch with him. Ajja was a very intelligent
man and a well read man, and he was the type of person who loved history and
learning new things. His room even had a book shelf with all of his favourite
literature that he collected.
He was the first grandparent to leave us for a state beyond. Ajja passed away May
4th, 201 5 as a result of an infection that took power over his whole body. He was in
the hospital for a month battling this. My Pappa tells us that they could not win this
battle so finally he decided to bring him home so that he would pass away next to
our grandmother. Ajja had a few hours at home that evening with Bapamma, but at
8:55 pm, God had other plans for him. He died on the day of Vaishak Poornima day
and on this very day his Kamath family had a day of Pooja at our Venkatram
Devasthan Pappa in Kanangad, Kerala.
We soon found out that Ajja had donated his body to medical research. We were
very proud of him and in fact this noble act of his was a life lesson for all of us. There
was no funeral, there was no cremation, but there was a communal love that bonded
us together when we remembered Ajja on the many significant ceremonial days that
followed. Though Ajja’s physical body is preserved in a hospital, his soul has moved
on. The greatest gift that we humans take for granted, is our innate ability to
remember. We are grateful that we will always have our Ajja in our memory.
We will always remember the way he would do Pranayam every single day. The way
he would warm his banana so that he wouldn’t get sick from digesting something
cold. The way he would laugh whenever he told us how mischievous of a son Papa
really was. The way he would get startled whenever akka and I were too loud; when
in reality we were talking normally. Ajja wasn’t just a great man; he was a very noble
man with a lot of qualities that made him different from everybody.
Just because he is not with us physically it does not mean that he has stopped being
what he was before. He was a great, loving, smart, healthy man, who battled life
courageously. My Pappa tells us that it is not easy to live with COPD. He just wanted
to be alive long enough to spend every minute he could with Bappamma. We love
you so much Ajja, and everyday we wish we could have been there with you, holding
your hand, so that you would be less alone in the hospital. It brings us to tears that
we were not there when you left us. Don’t feel alone up there, when the time comes
we will all be with you, holding your hand, wiping away your tears, never to leave
you alone again.
Page 1 4
PoojaPictures-May9,2015
Page 1 5
Seniors' Forum
Forum Editor : Sadanand Mankikar
Note from the Editor of the Forum:
Articles on topics such as Seniors’ Health, Seniors’ Living, Nutrition/Diet, Finance/Investment Management,
Estate Planning, Social Services, Book/Movie Reviews, Travels and Tours etc. for publication in this column
may be e. mailed to [email protected]. Comments, suggestions and questions on already
published articles or on any other relevant topics are also welcome. They will be published as space permits
and on a first come first served basis. For additional information, one may contact Sadanand Mankikar at
(905) 31 9-1 073.
In this issue:
1 . Nursing Homes - Part 1 by Vivek Nayak
2. Xerostomia or Dry Mouth by Veena Shanbhag
3. Awakening Psoas by Rashmi Bhandarkar MacPhee
4. Basic Guidelines for Planning an Ideal Trip by Nagesh Kamath
1. Nursing Homes - Part 1
By Vivek Nayak
The Konkani community in Ontario has come a long
way in the last twenty five years. Many of its
members are now seniors or are about to become
seniors. While every one of us would love to stay in
our own homes, a day may come when we are
unable to do so for various reasons. Performing
activities of daily life –eating, bathing, dressing, and
toileting and so on may become increasingly difficult.
It is at this time that one thinks of moving into a
Retirement home or a Nursing home.
People often use the terms Retirement home and
Nursing home interchangeably. However there are
major differences between the two. In Ontario a
Retirement home is regulated under the Retirement
Homes Act while a Nursing home or Long Term Care
home is regulated by the Ministry of Health and Long
Term care under the Long Term Care Act.
A retirement home may not provide Nursing Care
while a Nursing Home provides 24/7 Nursing care.
A retirement home may charge its residence an
amount based on its location, services provided and
so on, while a Nursing home can charge only what is
approved by the Ministry of Health based on whether
the accommodation is private, semi-private or basic.
The rates are the same all over the province.
There are several other difference in terms of
eligibility, process of admission and so on.
In this write up I will write about the admission
process and eligibility for anyone looking to be
Page 1 6
admitted into a Long Term Care or Nursing Home.
whether the home has indoor smoking facilities and
answering any questions he or she may have about
As indicated in the regulatory provisions of the Long possible choices.
Term Care Act, the criteria for determining an
applicant’s eligibility for admission to a Nursing home The CCAC must inform the person about home
are:
waiting lists so he or she knows how long the wait
may be for a specific LTC home. It may also provide
1 . The applicant must be at least 1 8 years old;
information to persons regarding the performance of
the LTC home but should not attempt to influence the
2. The applicant must be an insured person under
person’s decision.
the Health Insurance Act (HIA)-He or she must have The CCAC may share the following information with
a valid OHIP card in Ontario.
persons interested in different LTC homes:
3. The applicant must meet at least one of the
following criteria:
• Results of the Ministry of Health and Long-Term
Care inspection of the LTC home; and
• Corrective action plans, if any, that have been
• requires nursing care be available on-site 24 hours identified as part of the inspection.
a day;
• requires assistance each day with activities of daily CCACs can also refer applicants to the public
living;
reporting website so applicants can review this
• requires, at frequent intervals throughout the day, information themselves (although the CCAC may
on-site supervision and monitoring to ensure his or have a more up-to-date inspection report than is
her safety or well-being;
posted on the website).
• is at risk of being financially, emotionally or
physically harmed if the applicant lives in his or her Applicants should be advised if a LTC home has
residence;
failed to take corrective actions and where sanctions
• is at risk of suffering harm due to environmental
have been applied. If the applicant has additional
conditions that cannot be resolved if the applicant
questions, he or she should be referred to staff of the
lives in his or her residence; or
Ministry regional office.
• may harm someone if the applicant lives in his or
her residence;
The CCAC is also required to maintain up-to-date
information with a description of services and
4. Publicly-funded community-based services
programs offered in each LTC home and inform
available to the applicant and caregiving, support or applicants about those services.
companionship arrangements available where the
applicant lives or intends to live are insufficient to
In my next Part, I will provide readers with the Rates
meet the applicant’s requirements; and
charged by the Nursing homes, how one can get a
rate reduction and what documents must be kept
5. Applicant’s care requirements can be met in a LTC ready and updated to make the transition to a
home.
Nursing home stress free.
After ensuring the above criteria are met the next
Vivek Nayak
step in the process is to approach the Community
Mississauga, Ontario
care Access Center (CCAC) in the area in which the [email protected]
person normally lives. The CCAC can assist a
person to make choices about a LTC home by
providing information about the services and
programs provided by a LTC home, including
Page 1 7
2. THE XERPSTEMIA OR DRY MOUTH
By Veena Shanbhag
Dry mouth or xerostomia is a medical condition where there is insufficient moisture in the mouth due to
decreased saliva formation.
Saliva has several important functions such as protecting the teeth from getting cavities by its antimicrobial
activity, facilitating chewing and swallowing, assisting the taste sensation, lubricating the oral cavity and
facilitating speech.
Xerostomia can happen at any age but is more common in older people. It is a side effect of several
medications and some medical conditions. Do not stop any medication or adjust your dose if you experience
xerostomia, without first consulting your doctor.
• Complications of dry mouth
• Decaying of teeth
• Difficulty in talking, chewing food, swallowing
• Reduced taste sensation
• Oral infections
• Discomfort when wearing dentures
What can you do to relieve symptoms?
• Chew sugar free gum or suck on sugar free candy. Make sure these do not contain any simple sugars like
glucose, fructose, sucrose, maltose or lactose as these can lead to dental cavities
• Avoid smoking or chewing tobacco as this worsens the problem
• Caffeinated beverages like tea, coffee or cola may be had in moderation as caffeine is a diuretic and can
aggravate the problem
• Reduce sugar intake at meal times and avoid sugary snacks to reduce the risk of tooth decay
• Brush and floss your teeth regularly. Use a soft brush and a fluoride containing toothpaste. Visit your dentist
regularly to assess for dental cavities or other oral infections. They may recommend a fluoride application
during your visit
• Sip water during meals to facilitate swallowing
Treatment
Some non -prescription saliva substitutes or artificial saliva that contain salivary enzymes, moisturizers etc.
are available in the pharmacy. These provide some relief from symptoms but do not protect your teeth from
cavities. Toothpastes and mouthwashes are also available in the oral care section that give temporary relief
from symptoms. Talk to your pharmacist for a recommendation.
Some prescription medications that increase saliva formation are also available. Talk to your
doctor to find the right option for you.
Veena Shanbhag
Mississauga, Ontario
[email protected]
Page 1 8
4. YOGA FOR SENIORS – AWAKENING THE PSOAS
By Rashmi Bhandarkar Macphee
In our culture today we sit... a LOT. We sit down for meals, sit down to drive, sit down to watch TV, sit
down to use our computers, sit down to read,... in fact, you are probably sitting down to read this right
now! When we sit down or keep the hip flexed often (maybe we even curl up into the fetal position when
we sleep at night!), we shorten the psoas muscle (pronounced “so-as”). This can be the source of
tightness in the front of the hips, especially when we get up.
The psoas starts at the last few vertebrae of the spine and comes in front of the hip bone and attaches to
the top of the inside of the thigh (towards the groin). It is a powerful hip flexor and low back stabilizer. So
now that we know more about it, how can we release tension from this area? Soften the jaw and deepen
the breath! The psoas goes up the body and turns into the diaphragm and eventually connects into the
jaw. Anytime we notice we are holding tension in the jaw or clenching the teeth, we can open the jaw
and soften the palate of the tongue. For more release, begin this yoga practice:
- Start to deepen the breath and initiate 3-part breathing : inhale expanding the collarbone, then the ribs,
then expanding the belly fully. On the exhale, bring the navel in towards the spine, the ribs go in, and the
collarbone goes in, exhaling completely. Continue doing this until the jaw is relaxed and the belly
expands effortlessly with each inhale, about 1 0 breaths.
- Anjaneyasana, or Low Lunge, to stretch the psoas muscle: Begin on all fours, on the hands and
knees, Table Pose. Bring right foot forward between the hands, ensuring the right heel is under the right
knee. Slide the left knee back as far as it will go keeping the hips shifting forward, allowing the left hip
flexor (psoas) to open. Options to cushion the knee (using a small pillow, blanket, towel, etc) and/or use
blocks under the hands. With each exhale, breathe softness into the front of the left hip, surrendering
into the pose. Hold for 5 breaths.
- Parivritta Anjaneyasana: Find stability, and bring the hands up onto the right thigh, keeping the hips
shifted forward. Find balance and bring the hands together in front of the heart in Anjali Mudra (prayer
position). Inhale deeply and as you exhale, twist to the right side. Hold it here and breathe. Option to
hook the left elbow on the outside of the right knee, ensuring the right knee is still tracking over the right
heel (this hooking is not for everybody and that is okay!). The twist stimulates the internal abdominal
organs and balancing improves concentration. Hold for 3-5 breaths. On the exhale untwist, and bring
the hands on either side of the right foot. Bring the right knee down to the meet the left, back into Table
pose. Repeat Anjaneyasana and Parivritta Anjaneyasana with the left foot forward.
- Pavanamuktasana Flow to strengthen the psoas muscle: Begin lying down in savasana, legs
extended, head and shoulders relaxed. Bring the hands underneath the sacrum which is below the low
back and just above the buttocks to support the back. Inhale the right leg up to 90 degrees
from the floor. Exhale the left leg up to meet the right. Inhale deeply and exhale both legs into
the body. Inhale to extend the right leg to hover the leg an inch off the floor. (If this is too much
at first, release the foot to the floor.). Exhale to extend and hover the left leg. Repeat starting
Page 1 9
with the left side. Do this a few times on each side. Once you have completed this set, hug the knees
into the body, maybe rocking from side to side or forward and back along the spine, releasing the
abdominals. Come back to lying on the floor in savasana and begin the 3-part breath for another 5
breaths.
Stretching and strengthening the deep core muscles, in this case the psoas, provides more mobility and
control within the hips and pelvis.
With love,
Rashmi Bhandarkar MacPhee, Ottawa, ON
Hatha and Yin Yoga Teacher, Reiki Practitioner, B.Eng.Mgt
www.sunrayyoga.org www.facebook.com/sunrayyogapam
2. GUIDELINES FOR PLANNING AN IDEAL
TRIP
By Nagesh Kamath
In the present day scenario, tons of information is available at ones fingertips, thanks to the great
advancement in information technology. The volume of information on Travel & Tours, offers many choices
and one may find it overwhelming to make a concrete decision as unknown/hidden costs & conditions are
often associated with such deals. To be well informed, assists decision making, especially when one has to
invest money on big ticket items such as Travel & Tours. However, it is always good to check out the offers
available from the websites to get a fair idea of the choices & costs one may incur.
Before contacting your travel agent, here is a check list of some of the basic information that I
recommend to all my clients to keep handy so that the agent is able to guide & offer you the
best possible deal and you get to enjoy your hassle free travel.
Page 20
a) Full Names as listed in your passport clearly mentioning LAST / FIRST / any middle names(Note: Name
correction will result in penalties & additional costs on a ticketed booking)
b) Passport Number, Nationality, passport validity, Date of Birth, Gender, Visa status eg. Visitor or on
employment visa etc.
c) Have sufficient days to obtain Visa for any transit, stopover & destination countries.
d) Destination city & stopovers points of interest if any (please discuss all your intended cities to visit including
any side trips so that the agent will be able to give you the most suitable offer)
e) Travel dates, preferred times, airlines & transfer points that you are comfortable in travelling.
f) Type of cabin (First, Business, Premium Eco, Economy) & travel budget.
g) Seat & Meal preferences.
h) Special assistance requirements (eg; wheel chair, language assistance, special medication or equipment that
you need to carry on board etc.)
i) Type of Travel Insurance coverage options if required.
j) Airline frequent flyer membership registration numbers,
k) Contact information including your home address, all telephone contact numbers at the origin (local),
destination & if available at the stopover points and your email contact is helpful.
l) Always keep all contact information of the agency, agent (& alternate staff member) handy.
m) It is highly recommended to call the agent/airlines (with in 72 hrs before departures) to check on any schedule
changes to avoid last minute surprises.
n) Always keep a scanned copy of your travel documents as an email attachment. It comes handy in case the
original gets lost or damaged. Always double check you have your original travel documents intact after each
use at the airports.
Once you receive the options offered by the agent (by e. mail), discuss all your concerns & preferences with
agent. Have a mutual understanding of all the facts & conditions therein that suits your needs best. This should
enable you to take the decision to the next level.
More tips in future issues.
Nagesh Kamath
Scarborough, Ontario
[email protected]
(Nagesh Kamath is a OKA Life Member and has a long association with the travel industry,
currently working at Cumberland Travel in Scarborough)
Page 21
R
uuch i R andap
Cooking/Recipes
Prawn Lajawab Pulav
3 Cups long grain Basmati Rice
2 Cups coconut milk
2 1 /2 pounds medium size prawns cleaned, deveined and shelled
3 medium sized onions finely chopped
6 cups water (to cook rice)
2 tbsp fresh ginger garlic paste
2 tsp garam/meat masala
2 sprigs of Mint leaves
2 tsp red Deghi or Kashmiri chilli powder
2 tsp turmeric powder
1 Bunch of coriander leaves finely chopped
5 - 6 Thai green chillies
1 tsp cumin seeds
2 tsp biryani masala
2& 1 /2 tbsp salt
2 Cinnamon sticks
2 black cardomon
5 to 6 peppercorns
2 bay leaves
1 star anise
1 tsp Saunf
oil / butter
extra salt for marination
By: Niveditha Kamath
Marination: Take prawns in a bowl, add salt and turmeric and keep aside for about an hour.
- In a heavy base vessel take oil / butter once hot add the cinnamon sticks, cardomons, bay leaves,
star anise, saunf after a few seconds add cumin seeds. Wait till nicely sautéed and emits garam
masala smell and then add the finely chopped onions.
- Let the onions cook till golden brown, add turmeric, red chili powder, ginger garlic paste, chopped
mint leaves and biryani masala. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes till it all ingredients mix well
- Now add the marinated prawns, once they start turning red add the rice and keep stirring to mix all
ingredients well.
- Add water, salt , garam /meat masala and coconut milk stir well cover and cook.
Page 22
Miscellaneous
NAKA Sammelan
The next NAKA sponsored Konkani Sammelan will be organized by Konkani Association of Georgia
(KAOG) and will be held in Atlanta, Georgia from July 01 , 201 6 to July 03, 201 6 in the Georgia
International Convention Centre (GICC). A limited number of rooms are already blocked for the attendees
in the nearby Marriott Hotel and Spring Hill Suites.
Election of the next NAKA Board will be one of the highlight of this Sammelan. For the first time all
Konkanis residing in North America and especially those who will be attending this Sammelan will get an
opportunity to elect the Board. More information will follow soon.
In the past, a large group of Canadian Konkanis had attended the Sammelans and made their presence
known by enthusiastically participating in all the activities. A number of times, we celebrated Canada Day
on an American stage in a grand style. All are encouraged to plan on attending this Sammelan. For
additional information please contact Sadanand Mankikar at (905) 31 9-1 073 or at (905) 399-1 073.
Feedback from the Community:
On Wed, Apr 1 , 201 5 at 2:28 PM, Ratnakar Bhandarkar wrote:
Dear Ajay and Chitra,
I just finished reading the latest issue of eSamachar and am very pleased to say that I thoroughly
enjoyed reading it from the beginning to the end. The present layout is appealing and well structured. It
certainly gives a professional look. All the topics/articles are very well written, informative and useful.
Seniors Forum is another brilliant idea from Sadanand Mankikar in addition to the already successful
annual Communication & Leadership Workshops. The new initiative 'Konkani Help Desk' is certainly
going to be very useful to newcomers, an excellent idea! The eSamachar is not just another monthly
newsletter anymore!!! Congratulations to you, your editorial team. webmaster and other volunteers.
My wife Sudha also joins me in expressing these sentiments.
Warm Regards,
Ratnakar Bhandarkar
Page 23
On April 15 2015 OKA attended the speech
given by
Here is the feedback we recieved
Ajay,
Thanks everyone at OKA for organizing the
ticket specifically for Shashikant. To me it was
a once in a lifetime experience an experience
like never before and possible to replicate only
by a similar experience. Every time I think back
I feel I am still there experiencing the aura and
aweinspiring leadership.
Thanks
Gopinath
It was a great experience. We thank OKA for coordinating this event. A lot of efforts by volunteers was
evident in the smooth conduct of the program. I was a
proud feeling to see one of our OKA member Ms.
Shweta Kamath perform on the stage as a part of a
dance group.
The icing on the cake is to get to see the Prime
Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi in person and
hear him speak. Not only a powerful orator but also a
very down to earth and a humble person with a great
vision for the nation. I again thank OKA for an
opportunity to attend this event.
Thanks - Sheetal Kamath
The PM Modi April 1 5th 201 5 community event was a historic moment in my life. I have been following his
views and speeches for the last 2 years. In my point of view, Modi ji is a man of vision who will inspire every
human mind set to greater humanity. Modi ji quoted "Our world is one big family; every human being has a
right to clean air, clean water and basic electricity. Development is the answer". I support Modi ji for that
vision.
As a child, I remember my father telling us about an Independence event when Mahatma Gandhi came to
my small town of Udupi; my father heard his speech and used to narrate the content proudly to his children
and grand children. In my life time this PM Modi Toronto community event feels very similar and I will
narrate to my children and my grand children in the same way my father narrated to me. I felt so proud and
honored to be there in person to listen to our Vishwa Guru Sri Narendra Modi ji. I thank the National
Alliance of Indo-Canadians for organizing this once in a life time event. Jai Hind!
Jayashree Pai
Page 24
Dear Ajay Rao & OKA committee
I sincerely thank OKA for facilitating our members
including myself to attend once in a life time offer
to attend a reception to honour Indian PM Shri
Narendra Modi, during his recent visit to Canada
(Toronto). As I am one of his ardent follower and
enjoy every occasion to read or hear him
speak(on You Tube), to get a chance to see &
hear him speak in person was no doubt
unbelievable, that too on a very short notice & out
of
a quarter million Indian diaspora in
Toronto/GTA region. I believe he is one leader
who can & will make very positive changes not
only in India, but around the region & world at
large. A true hope of ' Vasudeva Kutumbakam'.
It was a great honour for all Indians & us
immigrants when ever the world leaders including
our Honourable PM Mr. Steven Harper welcomed
him with all the warmth & respect, on the dais,
that day. Shri Modi's excellent oratory skills is
equally matched by his administrative abilities.
Hope he will keep inspiring myself & millions of
other to take a leaf or two from his living
example. The cultural entertainment at the
beginning of the event was definitely an added
bonus. Once again, a big Thanks to OKA.
Regards,
Nagesh
It was one of the best organized superb public
events I have seen in many years . I am
astonished by the quality of the programs
panaroma put together which were superbly
executed with fine perfection. Right from the
anchors to the performers to the gathered
audience they really held our heart stings to be
proud of we being part of that mother land
India, to inherit that rich heritage,culture and
tradition. It was a night to celebtate that gift of
god to be an Indian origin and savour & wish
the success it is achiveing in every field and
facets of life inspite of all the odds.. it was the
night for all the Indians to be proud off. The
experience is simply transgretional. The main
speaker Mr Modi did not disappoint at all..as
well as Mr. Harper had lots of appreciation to
the contribution of the Indian diaspora.
Thouroughly enjoyed the evening..last but not
the least, big thank you to the Ontario Konkani
Association for getting us the recognition and
have our participation...nandan shanbhag
Page 25
Hi Ajay,
It was an amazing experience to go see PM
Modi in person and I am really thankful to
OKA. I am a new member and am looking
forward to other awesome functions
organized by OKA through the year.
Thanks and regards
Dipti Chaubal
Hello Ajay,
Thank you for giving us the opportunity to
attend the reception of our Indian PM
Narendra Modi.
PM Modi is a great orator and an extremely
good motivator. Listening to him speak made
me proud to be of Indian origin. Certainly, like
myself, every Indian in Canada now feels that
India has been "Modi"fied and hopes have
been raised when we speak of development
in India. I met few people outside the Konkani
community who were also fortunate to attend
the event and very rightly, everyone feels that
we should also consider having one foot in
India, so that we can enjoy the best of both
worlds. During my visit to India last summer,
after a very long time, I could feel that people
in India are full of hopes and most of them
feel that India is on the verge of a positive
change.
Dear Ajay
Thanks for the invite to PM Narendra Modi’s
address. I would also like to thank other volunteers
from KAO who took time to distribute the tickets to
the KAO members so that they could attend this
historic moment.
The crowd at the event was very energizing and you
could feel the anticipation and excitement in the air
and the festive atmosphere was very much felt. The
cultural and musical programme by luminaries in
their field was an unexpected treat.
PM Narendra Modi speech was very inspiring and
his interaction with the audience could only be
inspired by a leader who has risen through the
ranks. His visit to Canada can be heralded as a
historic event and definitely a turning point in the
relationship between India and Canada as at long
last, the leaders in both countries have realized that
it is time to forge deeper ties. This visit should
consolidate the cultural and economic ties between
India and Canada in the near term and for the future
generations of Indo Canadians.
Regards
Halady Prabhu
Once again, thank you and the Ontario
Konkani association for giving us an
opportunity to attend this fabulous event.
Warm regards
Neena
Page 26
Stories From the Road
On a recent trip to India I got to visit
a small town tucked away in the
ghats of Karnataka. A place where
time has mostly stood still. Where
the humid air above and dense
jungle around, and warmth of
family combined to make for a
memorable experience. The town is
called Agumbe and this article is a
journal of my experiences there.
view and the other on the driver watching in amazement as he
calmly avoided calamity at the last
second on every occasion. From
the bottom, the road looks like it
goes into the clouds. From the top
you realize it does.
Our place of stay in Agumbe was
Dodda Mane. The grand house has
been part of my family since about
Our journey to Agumbe began with 1 880, when construction on the
a flight to Mangalore. My grandad, lower floors began. From a birds
eye view, the layout of the house is
his personal care assistant and I
square with an open air central
then rented a taxi to take us the
courtyard. The toilets, water well
remaining distance. On the drive
out of Mangalore, the road slowly and cowshed are located at the
turns into a continuing series of S- back. If you want to have a warm
shapes as the vegetation becomes bath, the water needs to be heated
more dense. The final approach to in large pots above a fireplace. The
Agumbe is through a section of the main rooms of the house are
located along the four sides of the
famous hairpin turns - of which
square. Because of the open air
there are at least 1 4. Driving the
hairpin stretch is fun - if your idea courtyard, there’s always a feeling
of openness within the house. The
of fun is a winding roller coaster
with regular oncoming heavy traffic best spot in the house is the
veranda, which looks out onto the
and occasional blind overtaking
main road. Here you can either rest
scenarios. I had one eye on the
in a few chairs or just sit on the
steps with your back against a
pillar. There’s a slight breeze and
the regular quiet is only interrupted
by buses blearing their horn as they
speed down the main road. We
spent a majority of our time on the
veranda, sitting, reading or just idly
watching passers by.
Agumbe is located within the
Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary.
Because of it’s protected status, the
town surrounded on all sides by
dense forest. During my stay I
became acquainted with all sorts of
little friends. For example during a
walk in the forest on the first day,
the driver politely tapped me on the
shoulder and informed me that
there was a leech on my foot. To
my horror I looked down to see the
thing between my sandal and foot!
After some jumping, and kicking I
was assured it had fallen off. I didn’t
feel easy until I got home and
double checked my whole body. On
another occasion, without looking I
Page 27
reached for a tap to find my hand
on something warm and slimy. I
yanked my hand back to find a little
slug on the tap – apparently he was
as thirsty as me. On the second
day, my cousin took me down to
the river. Now I had been warned
before that Agumbe was famous for
two things – the view (which I
already saw and appreciated) and
snakes (which I didn’t want to see,
or appreciate). At the river, my
cousin told me there would be a
surprise if I took my shoes off and
put my feet in the river. Imagining
some gigantic river-snake that
would bite my leg off, and now
regretting the walk to the river I
said a quick prayer and slowly put
my feet in the river. Within ten
seconds little fish came up and
started eating the dead skin off my
feet! I later found out these were
Garra Rufa – also known as
‘Doctor Fish’ and are used in fish
pedicures in the West. To my relief
– no snakes. Just when I was
settling into things (on day 3) and
sitting, as usual, lazily on the
veranda, a lizard fell on my
shoulder. I don’t know if he was
looking for a quick way down or if
he just slipped, but either way, I
learned my lesson – don’t let your
guard down - even while relaxing.
I’m sure I provided good
entertainment to my family.
take pictures of the house and
approach it carefully as if one
would an antique piece in a
museum. Inevitably someone will
say ‘Wow this is exactly like the
show’ or ‘I remember this scene
that was shot here!’. I could tell that
house itself meant something to
each of these people.
No explanation of Dodda Mane
would be complete without a
description of its current residents.
The house is run by Kasturiakka.
She is the matriarch and
orchestrator of the whole show.
She organizes cleaning, the
cooking and anything else that
needs to be settled. She also
insists that anyone wanting to eat
or stay at the house can do so for
free (so long as there is space) and
accepts only donations. To me
Kasturiakka did no less than force
feed me at every meal and insist
that I wasn’t eating enough (even
though I could do no more). Every
meal (there were at least four hot
meals a day) was eaten on banana
leaf and all the things eaten were
freshly cooked Konkani randei’s.
After the meal, it was off to the
veranda to digest and await the
next meal.
In this pattern I spent four
wonderful days in Agumbe. For a
town where nothing much seems to
Dodda Mane itself was a wonderful happen, I was constantly surprised
experience. The show Malgudi
and never once bored. My
Days was partially shot here and
granddad was born in Agumbe in
fans of the show are always
1 924. During our visit in 201 5 he
stopping by. Everyday, the pattern was 90 years old. I wonder if I ever
is the same – a car stops outside
live to be 90 years old, in 2077, I
and someone peeks out the
will experience it again. Actually
window. The person asks “Is this
scratch that – I need to go back
Dodda Mane?”. When the
sooner!
realization sinks in the their
reactions are pretty similar – they
Page 28
Page 29