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December2010
A Lifestyle and Entertainment Magazine for Today’s South Asian
Shreyas
Tech
Gifts
Guide
Bollywood
The Art of Living
Reel Talk
Yogic Diet
Double Trouble
Imran Khan and Deepika Padukone
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CityMasala
A Lifestyle and Entertainment Magazine for Today’s South Asian
Published By
CityMasala LLC
3439 Pine Trace Circle
Valrico, FL 33596
Phone: 813-476-5415
Email : [email protected]
On the Web - www.CityMasala.com
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Chhaya Sanghavi
Advertising Sales
813-476-5415
407-504-2489
407-384-7049
[email protected]
CityMasala is a free publication available to Florida
residents. Read it online or get it delivered to your home
or business.
Don’t miss your chance to get your business listed for
FREE in our directory.
Email us at [email protected]
www.citydesipages.com
In This Issue
8
ChaatMasala
10
Double Trouble!
Imran Khan and
Deepika Padukone in
Break Ke Baad
14
Quiz
Techie or Technophobe?
16
Technology
Holiday Tech Gifts
18
Yogic Diet
Stay Fit and Young
20
Shreyas & Preyas
The Art of Living
24
Immigration
Your Questions Answered!
26
The Gentle Art of
Giving Gifts
28
ReelTalk
Delightful December
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CityMasalaDec2010.indd 6
Graphic Designer
Dawn Sallas
TEAM MASALA
Alpa M. Patel
Asha Deshpande
Ben Tripp
Dharmen Patel
Kavita Agrawal
Kirti Patel
Dr. Maulik Trivedi
Neelofer Syed
Raymond Jhirad
Roshni Mulchandani
Sanjay Puranik
Savneet Singh
Tracey Porpora
—————————————
CityMasala is published by CityMasala LLC. The opinions and
viewpoints of our contributors and advertisers do not necessarily
reflect those of CityMasala’s. CityMasala disclaims any liability
with respect to the use of our reliance on any such information
and further disclaims any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions, negligence, accident or any
other cause. CityMasala reserves the right to reject any advertisement they deem unacceptable or inappropriate for publication
in CityMasala. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy
and originality of content. CityMasala is not liable for products
and services advertised. Copyright © 2009 CityMasala LLC. All
rights reserved. Reprinting of any material without prior permission is strictly prohibited. Please contact [email protected]
for reprint permission.
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December 2010
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ChaatMasala
Your guide to local events and news.
Please send an email to
[email protected] and have your
next event listed in our ChaatMasala
column. Placement is not guaranteed due
to space and time constraints.
Dance Fusion
Dance Fusion is unlike most dance competitions because
it fuses together traditional Indian Bollywood dance with
American hip-hop. Our competition fuses South Asian
music with various other genres of music.
This upcoming year, Dance Fusion once again will hit the
Orlando area, on February 12th, 2011. Expect an even
bigger show this year, with performances from various
teams from Universities across the nation. Keep on the
lookout for updates to the show in the coming months.
We hope to see you there!!
Last year Exit 10 along with JSK Entertainment hosted
Dance Fusion at the Orange County Convention Center in
Orlando, Florida on March 27th 2010.
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Monday December 13th 2010 @ 7:00 PM
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Uttrayan
Date: Sunday January 16th, 2011 (10 am to 5 pm)
Location : Ralph V. Chisholm Regional Park
4700 Chisholm Park Trail Saint Cloud, FL 34771
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November 2010
11/20/2009 2:45:53 PM
10/26/2010 2:49:32 PM
Imran Khan &
Deepika Padukone
in Break Ke Baad By Steven Baker
How does it feel to be releasing your fifth
film Break Ke Baad? Do you feel like a
bankable star?
I am aware that I have had a certain amount of success and I have a certain box office clout, so I am in a position of some power. But I have a hard time taking it seriously. I have a hard time saying ‘I am a star’. I think that is a good thing, as the second you start thinking you have reached somewhere then maybe you will get complacent and take things for granted. I still think of myself as someone who has something to prove.
Tell us about your character (Abhay Gulati)
in the film...
If you see the promos, it is a young, urban love story about a boy and a girl who have been dating for a really long time. The characters are about twenty-three or twenty-four years old and they have been dating since they were about fifteen or sixteen. Within the first twenty minutes of the film, you see them break up and see what happens after they break up – what their journey is, who they become, what they learn. My character is a guy who is not a very ambitious person and he doesn’t know what to do in life or what kind of career he wants. The only thing he is clear about is that he loves this one girl and he wants to be with her. The girl however, is very ambitious and career minded, and this is what leads to them splitting up. She goes to Australia, and after some time he Imran Khan is back with Break Ke
Baad, a film the actor describes
as “a young, urban love story”.
Helmed by debut director Danish
Aslam, the project sees Imran
paired opposite Deepika Padukone
for the first time, in a production
that has been shot in Delhi,
Mumbai and Mauritius. Steven
Baker went head to head with
the actor to talk all things Break
Ke Baad, including the reason
he originally turned the part
down, why the 27-year-old does
not accept he is a star, and how
Deepika has left an impression on
him.
www.CityMasala.com
CityMasalaDec2010.indd 10
10
December 2010
11/30/2010 2:05:04 PM
realizes that he has to get this
girl back and follows her there.
In the process of trying to get
her back he learns what he
wants to do in his own life
It sounds a bit like Love Aaj
Kal. Perhaps a touch of Wake
Up Sid also?
Yes there are elements of both
of them you are right. Love Aaj
Kal for the break-up angle and
Wake Up Sid for the fact that
the guy doesn’t know what to
do in life. At its core, more than
that, Break Ke Baad is a love
story. It’s a film that celebrates
the concept of being in love. The
guy is a classic old fashioned
hero who will do anything for the
girl he loves and follow her to
the end of the earth.
So quite different from your
role in your last release I
Hate Luv Storys?
Very different, absolutely. That
guy was a player, he was quite
shameless.
It seems as if your audience
wants to see Imran Khan
only in the type of romantic
hero role you mentioned. The
other types of film you have
done appear to have been
less accepted.
Yes you are right about that.
Although I wouldn’t blame it on
the audience’s expectation, but
on the quality of a film. I feel
that if a film has not worked,
you can’t argue with that. If
it has not worked it has not
worked.
How was it working with
Deepika Padukone for the
first time?
I have got to know Deepika
over the course of making
the film. She has really
impressed me personally and
professionally. She is someone
who really cares about her work
and puts in a lot of effort and is
very concerned with improving herself and becoming
a better actor. These are the kind of people you
want to work with, people who care that much. On a
personal level she is very humble and down-to-earth
and I would say that she has become a very dear
friend to me, possibly more than any of my other
co-stars.
No, when I first heard the narration I said no to
it. I liked the first half but felt the second half was
not working. I then went on and signed I Hate
Luv Storys. I had shot for nearly a month when
I bumped into Danish again and he said he had
reworked the script. I took it from him again and he
had dramatically changed the second half and it was
really good. I called him up the very next day and
said ‘Listen, it’s awesome I am on’.
When director Danish Aslam narrated the film
did you accept it immediately?
www.CityMasala.com
CityMasalaDec2010.indd 11
Has the content of the film been influenced at
11
December 2010
11/30/2010 2:05:56 PM
Will we see any more
choreographed moves like ‘
Pappu Can’t Dance’?
Most of the songs are in the
background. But there’s one
song called ‘Dooriyan’ which is
the only lip-synch song in the
film, which has a dance and
where we are actually singing.
It is an awesome track. It was
the last song that we recorded
for the film and the last that we
shot. It has come out really well.
Deepika Padukone Break Ke
Baad Interview
Since making her Hindi
cinema debut opposite Shah
Rukh Khan in Om ShantI
Om
Om, Deepika Padukone is
the outsider who has risen
to become one of today’s
leading heroines. The
24-year-old star jetted into
London on Monday on an
8-hour flying visit to promote
new release Break Ke Baad.
The Kunal Kohli-produced
film sees Deepika share
screen space with Imran
Khan in a coming-of-age
drama about what happens
once a relationship ends. The
model-turned-actor spoke to
Steven Baker about working
with Imran, why she still
feels like a newcomer, and
her plans to do a stage show
with SRK.
You have had hits with
romantic, peppy films like
Love Aaj Kal and Bachna Ae
Haseeno; now you are back
with Break Ke Baad. Is this your niche in
Bollywood?
all by the producer Kunal Kohli?
Not at all! It is very much Danish’s film. Kunal
has been an extraordinary producer and being
a successful director himself, I can imagine that
there might have been some expectations from
people that he might shape it to his taste, but
he never did that. Danish has made the film
exactly the way he wanted it and the way he saw
it, and I would really commend Kunal for that.
I don’t want to be typecast as a heroine who
does a certain kind of cinema, which is why I
experiment with the type of films that I do. But
yes, I won’t deny that romantic love stories or
romantic comedies are what I enjoy doing the
most, because as an audience those are the kind
of films that I like watching.
What is your favorite song in the film?
Are there similarities between you and your
character Aaliya Khan in the film?
The Break Ke Baad album is not your normal
commercial Hindi film music. It is a little offkilter. The album itself has a modern rock sound,
a little bit like Jason Mraz. There’s an English
track in there called ‘Don’t Worry About Me’
which I really like. The response has been good,
and for me, that is the track that I really like.
www.CityMasala.com
CityMasalaDec2010.indd 12
In a lot of ways yes, and in a lot of ways no,
Aaliya is very ambitious and wants to achieve
a lot for herself, which I identify with. But she
is also someone who sacrifices her relationship,
and doesn’t believe in love or marriage, and
those are things I don’t connect with.
12
December 2010
11/30/2010 2:09:52 PM
to try out new ideas.
You have studied acting
from Anupam Kher’s ‘Actor
Prepares’. How did that help
you when you first entered
the industry?
I have absolutely no film
background. I don’t come from
a film family and I had never
been on a film set until my first
film. In a lot of ways, it gave me
little information about what to
expect. But at the same time, I
think the best education I’ve had
is to actually be on a film set and
learn from there.
So, having worked as an actor
for three years, do you feel
like you are an established
star, or do you still feel like a
newcomer?
After appearing with senior actors like Shah
Rukh Khan, Saif Ali Khan and Farhan Akhtar,
how is it working with a younger star like
Imran Khan?
I think when I am working with some of the older
actors I am in awe and I am often just trying to
learn as much as I can from them. Whereas, I think
with people like Imran and Ranbir, we are all in the
same age group and we are all just learning. I think
I am a lot more free to just discuss things, talk and
CityMasalaDec2010.indd 13
I still feel like a newcomer, and
I hope I feel like a newcomer forever. Because I
always feel that the minute you feel like you have
achieved everything, then you don’t enjoy your work
as much. So I hope I feel like a newcomer forever.
From ‘Love Mera Hit Hit’ to ‘Dhoom Tana’, you
are associated with a number of popular film
songs. Are there any plans to do a stage show
or world tour in the future?
Continued on page 30
11/30/2010 2:11:14 PM
Quiz
AreyouaTechieoraTechnophobe?
By: Tracey Porpora
Are you naturally drawn to high-tech devices - attracted to the way they work, and how they
function? Or are you the type of person who sees a high-tech product and is immediately fearful of
it, refuses to figure out how to use it, and doesn’t even take it out of the box if you don’t have to?
Simply put: Are you a techie or a technophobe? Take our quiz to find out.
1.
You receive an iPod for a holiday gift. After unwrapping it, you:
A) Are excited to upload all your favorite songs to it, and toss your old, out-dated one.
B) Stare at it for awhile, and wonder what it is.
C) Read the directions as you are not quite sure how to use it. But you are sure you can figure it out.
2.
You are in the market for a new computer, so you:
A) Go to an electronics store and compare the different features, memory options and functions that each computer model includes.
B) Ask someone who “knows about computers” to find, and order one for you.
C) Conduct online research, price shop and chose a computer based on your needs and uses for it.
3.
You are talking to colleagues and they’re discussing applications for the iPad:
A) You talk about some of the newest applications you’ve discovered.
B) You stay very silent and resist the temptation to ask, “What is an iPad?”
C) You ask several questions that will help you learn more about the iPad, for which you know very little knowledge.
4.
Your significant other ordered a new cable package for your home, and the installer is showing you how to use it, so you:
A) Pay attention so you can pass the information along to your significant other.
B) Ask if there is a booklet or manual, as well as a phone number your partner can call because you’ll never remember a word the
installer told you.
C) Listen carefully, and jot down notes so you can illustrate it to your partner later.
5.
You have a new job and are told you have to work with computer software you’ve never used, so you:
A) Pay close attention to the person training you, and feel confident you’ll retain the information.
B) Ask if there is a longer training class because everything sounds foreign to you.
C) Listen intently to the training, and buy an additional instruction manual you can refer to later.
6.
When you are in an electronics store, you are:
A) Drawn to the newest high-tech products, gadgets and items.
B) Uninterested and have the sudden urge to leave before buying anything.
C) Likely to browse, read the display descriptions and try to learn more about products that capture your interest.
7.
When you see a commercial for an electronic product that claims to simplify your life, you:
A) Stop what you are doing and listen to the advertisement. Next, go online to get more information about the product.
B) Change the channel.
C) Listen to the commercial, but if it’s too high-tech, decide not to purchase it.
Give yourself five points for every “A,” three points for each “B,” and one point for every “C.”
www.CityMasala.com
CityMasalaDec2010.indd 14
14
Continued on page 30
December 2010
11/30/2010 2:11:43 PM
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10/25/2010 9:48:41 AM
Holiday T
Technology
By: Dharmen.Patel
The Holiday season is upon us and were faced with that age old question “What do I get that special
someone in my life”, or maybe just a little something for yourself. Here is my ultimate tech gift buying guide
offering the most popular gadgets for the season.
Digital Video
For anyone who loves to capture videos of life events or some short clips, the Flip Ultra
HD makes a perfect gift. Price range $179 - $199, check out www.puredigitalinc.com This
compact flash memory camcorder shoots video at 720p. The internal memory allows you to
store 2 hours of video and comes with installed software for editing which works on both Mac
& Windows computers. Available at most retailers in standard black, this sleek device can be
totally customized using your imagination.
For those looking for a compact camera which can also take digital pictures, the Sony
Bloggie Touch may be the perfect choice. Price rage $175 - $199. www.sonystyle.com
Available in 4GB & 8GB models The Bloggie Touch records video in both 720p and 1080p
format and takes digital pictures in 12.8 megapixels. The Large touch screen LCD, USB and
HDMI output are some of the features, available in Silver, Black, Blue & Pink. Now that you
have started taking some great videos and pictures it is time to start sharing them with your
friends and family. Many websites are available where you can upload your files.
Tablets
Popular this season are tablet devices such as the iPad www.apple.com, starting at $499
it makes a great gift. Available in both Wi-Fi & 3G models it allows you to surf the net,
check email, watch videos and much more. The 3G model was 1st launched on the AT&T
wireless network and has most recently started being offered by Verizon Wireless using
Wi-Fi connection. With thousands of apps available for download, the possibilities are
endless. Apple is also offering free personal engraving on their website. With the iPad
being the most popular, many tablets are being geared to compete for a share in the market.
Samsung just launched the Galaxy Tab which offers most of the same features as the
iPad and also supports Flash for a total web surfing experience. Available on all the major
carriers (www.samsung.com), prices start at $399.
Game Consoles
Home gaming systems are another popular item as the Nintendo Wii around $119, Xbox
360 starting at $199 and Playstation 3 around $299 are available at most retailers and
online.
All offer hours of fun for all ages, these game consoles implement the lastest technology
with many titles from sports, adventure to children’s categories. This may be the perfect gift
for the entire family to enjoy together
For the Office & Car
Lets not forget the place we spend most of our time, at work or driving to
and from the office. Here are a few gift ideas which help make the daily
grind just a bit more enjoyable.
USB Beverage Cooler: Yes you may have a break room, but have this
mini cooler at your desk will make you the talk of the office. Around $20
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USB Car Power Adapter: Plugs into your car cigarette lighter socket, providing a USB post
to plug into for just $7.99 www.thinkgeek.com
USB LED Lamp: Gives you that extra light to keep you alert. Around $10 available at most
retailers and online.
Bluetooth Cell Car Speaker: Connect your smartphone via Bluetooth and play calls and
www.CityMasala.com
CityMasalaDec2010.indd 16
16
December 2010
11/30/2010 2:16:54 PM
ay Tech Gifts
music throught your cars speakers via the built-in FM transmitter. Various models available
starting around $70 at retailers like BestBuy, Target and Walmart.
Portable Audio
With a wide selection of MP3 players available,
here are a few ranking high in the market. The
Apple iPod Touch which is available at most
retailers starting at $179 (www.apple.com)
also lets you surf and check email with a Wi-Fi
connection in addition to playing your favorite
tunes. This makes a great gift for the teenagers
in your life. Apple also makes other MP3 players
such as the Nano starting at $149 and Shuffle
starting at $ 49.99 which are poplar as well.
The classic SONY Walkman, (definitely deserves
a mention!) in tune with the MP3 generation
available for around $99.
Mobile Phones
Cell phones have come a long way in recent
times with products like the iPhone (www.
attwireless.com), HTC Evo (www.sprint.com)
and Motorola Droid (www.verizonwireless.com).
The evolution of the smart phone has put a mini
computer in the palm of our hands allowing us to
multi-task in the course of our busy life. Many
features and plans are available so the best idea
is to shop around to find what fits your style.
Stocking Stuffer Ideas
Here are a few budget friendly tech gifts sure to
put a smile on someone’s face, and remember
… it’s the holidays, get a little something for
yourself as well. You can also get a gift card, but
where’s the fun in that?!
•
For the tool lover, the eTape Digital
Measuring Tape makes a great pick for $25
available at www.thinkgeek.com. It works like
a regular tape measure, but digitally records the
Photo courtesy Apple
length so you can view on the screen.
The i.Sound Twin Charging Dock is perfect for
the houshold with multiple Apple devices. You can charge 2 iPhones or iPods at the
same time clearing up the clutter of multiple chargers. Available for around $50 at most
retailers.
•
Digital Photo frames are a great way to dispay your pictures. Many styles and models
are available and start around $20. Mini and portable frames can be mounted on your
keychain or as luggage tag so you can take your pictures wherever you go.
•
Belkin Travel USB Hub avaialbe at most retailers for around $15. This gadget
consolidates 4 devices into 1 USB port, great for the road warrior traveling the globe.
December 2010
CityMasalaDec2010.indd 17
17
www.CityMasala.com
11/30/2010 2:20:21 PM
Stay Fit and Young
with Yogic Diet
By: Savneet Singh
products such as
milk, butter, yogurt
and cheese. You
need to drink at
least 2 liters of
water everyday.
Water helps in
elimination of toxic
substances as well
as in digestion
of the food. Add
herbal tea, juice,
milk, vegetable
milk such as coconut water, soy milk or rice milk.
Today everyone is talking about Yoga. Yoga, often thought to be
just another way of exercise, is more than just a physical activity.
It focuses on mental, emotional and physical well being of an
individual. Yoga inspires individuals to embark upon a journey
that brings a healthy, disease-free, long, contented and spiritual life
ahead. No matter the age, size, sex, health condition, religion or the
mental state of a person, yoga is for everyone. There are variations
which meet the needs of everyone. If you are already practicing
yoga postures only, you have a further chance to improve your life
by switching to ‘Yogic Diet’ which will enhance your physical
comfort and mental peace. You will feel younger and more fit than
ever before.
A yogic diet will undoubtedly make the body light, fit, and
bring about better control over emotions and stress. The diet
will certainly give you a better clarity of thoughts & concepts.
The diet complements the yoga performed and thus the result of
yoga is enhanced in just a short period of time. This diet is easy
for digestion and helps in detoxification of the body naturally.
In addition you will be blessed with enhanced memory and
concentration after a few weeks of continuing this diet. The
yogic diet will help in a better absorption of the nutrients present
in the food consumed. It is a path that leads to longevity and
enlightenment. The yogic diet contains proteins, carbohydrates,
fats and all other nutritional food in a right balance so that the
person following it gains strength, energy, self-confidence and
determination.
Totally abandon fast food like burgers, french fries, chips, soda, and
commercially processed juice.
Should you decide to fast, and if your health conditions allow,
consume only fruits, vegetables and yogurt a day before. On the
day of the fast don’t consume solid food. Have plenty of fluids such
as milk, juice, herbal teas. Towards evening avoid acidic food for
You don’t have to change your diet overnight
example orange, instead opt for grapes. Following morning have a
bowl of fruit and a cup of yoghurt.
Consume foods that have little or no hydrogenated oil, sodium,
preservatives, artificial flavors, sugar and trans fats.
The yogic diet strongly recommends the vegetarian diet, believing
the fact that human body is not intended to eat meat because our
digestive system is different from the meat eating animals. Consider
the fact that it takes 3 days for red meat to pass through the digestive
system whereas vegetarian food is eliminated only in 24-28 hours.
In addition to health benefits, yoga propagates non-violence, thus
killing an animal for food is not acceptable.
Meats, mushrooms, frozen or irritated, tinned, canned, and reheated
food are totally prohibited.
If you want to remain physically active and alert throughout the day
you need food that nourishes your mind and body, thus yogic diet
provides the energy for the same purpose. Have light meals. Avoid
eating too much food at the same time.
It may be very difficult for the people that have been eating a
particular type of food all their lives. If you want to switch over
to yogic food, first of all you need to have a strong determination
to stick with the diet. You have to fast (if your health conditions
allow) and take organic food. The fasting helps in self control and
detoxification, and rejuvenates the body from inside out.
Eating too many combinations of the food is not good for digestive
system. Don’t be in a rush to finish off what you are eating. Food
eaten in a rush or noisy and chaotic environment causes heart burn
and indigestion. Relax and chew your food for a longer time.
The yogic diet constitutes mainly of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole
grain cereals, legumes, pulses, seeds, milk and its products, nuts
and honey. The emphasis is that food should not be overcooked or
undercooked as both practices destroy the nutrients present in it.
Avoid having overly cold or hot food because it becomes difficult for
the body to digest it at extreme temperatures. The food which is too
spicy, salty, sour, under ripe, over ripe and bitter should not be eaten.
The use of tea, coffee, alcohol, chocolate, too much sugar, garlic and
eggs is also advised against. The diet should have all the essential
nutrients in a balanced form.
The diet is lacto-vegetarian which means that it includes milk
www.CityMasala.com
CityMasalaDec2010.indd 18
18
The yogic diet is just a balanced diet and you do not necessarily need
to track your calories and fat intake. It doesn’t ask you to go without
food if you can’t.
You don’t have to change your diet overnight but proceed gradually
towards yogic diet. You will see the results soon. This diet will bring
harmony in your life suppressing the stimulating factors that cause
restlessness, diseases and other mental diversions. Truly speaking
following a complete yogic diet can be very difficult but if you
choose to apply some of the above stated points in your diet, it is
going to help a lot. It also helps with common ailments like back
pain, indigestion, weight problems, insomnia, high blood pressure
and many such day to day problems.
December 2010
11/30/2010 2:21:47 PM
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11/30/2010 2:22:14 PM
T h e
S hr ey a s
A r t
o f
L i v i n g
By: Dr. Maulik Trivedi
Namaste, Happy Diwali and Happy New Year! The festivities of Diwali are behind us and we are getting ready for the
celebrations surrounding the western holiday season and New Year. In the last article you read about the purpose and the role
of a Guru as delineated in the Vedas. With the guidance from a spiritual guide, the Guru, one can stay identified with their true
Dharma, which, in turn, keeps them as close as possible to the ‘light’ of awareness and away from the ‘darkness’’ of ignorance.
In this article we will look at the significance of ‘Diwali’ and the
symbols surrounding it. Let’s discover how this festival celebrates
the highest form of ‘Shreyas’ in the quest for ‘light.’
the oil (the desires) and the light (awareness of true self) can get
swallowed into the oil. Or, one can choose to keep the ego burning
and producing light. That is, keep rejecting the sense of ‘memine’ to keep the wick above the oil level. This allows the wick,
representing the ego, to keep burning. This burning away of the
sense of ‘me-mine’ is what gives off light. This light symbolizes
the awareness that we have been discussing as the highest from of
‘Shreyas.’
Diwali is also known by the name Deepavali, which literally means
a row of light. The celebration has association with many historical
events tying it to many cultures from both northern and southern
parts of India. In the most popular versions of stories associated
with Diwali, the celebration is said to mark the return of Lord
Ram from his 14 years of exile in the forest. The end of his exile
is marked by his victory over Raavan, the 10 headed evil king of
Lanka. As a gesture of welcome, the inhabitants of the town are
said to have gathered in a row along the path of Lord Rama’s return
holding lamps called ‘Diya’ or ‘deepak’ in their hands. This row of
light is often signified in the literal meaning of Deepavali.
Does that sound deeply thought out and meaningful to the purpose
of life? Imagine living your life with this awareness actively
intertwined in every aspect of your daily thoughts and actions. How
purposefully aligned would you feel? How creative and passionate
would you become? Now, imagine everyone in your family living
their life in the same manner. How harmonious would your family
life feel? And then, imagine a community, a town, or a city, made
of families that conducted their lives with this awareness. How
different would that community look? How different would
everyone feel? What kind of civilization would that create? It
behooves one to imagine this. All this significance can be created
from a seemingly insignificant, simple, little lamp that we light at
Diwali.
The light that emanates from the ‘Diya’ or ‘Divo’ is fueled by oil
and burning on a wick. Traditionally, everyone in the community
lights these lamps during the five-day festival. They dress-up in new
clothes, visit the temples and relatives’ homes, eat sweets and light
firecrackers at night. The third day is the last day of the year and the
fourth day marks the beginning of the New Year. The last, and fifth,
day is meant for celebrating the brother-sister relationship.
If you realize the symbolism contained in this Vedic tradition, you
must feel inspired. And, you must also be wondering how, in our
busy lives, can we remember the significance of this little light in our
day-to-day life? Well, the simplest way to do so is to light one of
these ‘Diya’ in your own home. You can do this once daily to keep
your awareness and knowledge brightly lit, floating above the oil and
burning away the egotistic desires. You may even want to consider
taking on a new year’s resolution to do so.
This oil lit lamp holds direct significance to the same ‘light’ that you
have been reading about in these articles. Each part of the lamp also
has a symbolic meaning. The vessel holding the oil is symbolic of
our mind. If you take a closer look at how life takes place, you will
see good and bad in life being born from the workings of individual
minds. The mind derives its thoughts, feelings and actions directly
from our inner desires. The oil represents these inner desires. It is
these desires that motivate our decisions and actions in life. All the
thoughts and actions we perform usually give us a sense of being
the ‘performer’ of these actions. This sense of being the performer
creates a sense of ‘me’ and ‘mine.’ We call this sense our ‘ego.’ The
wick, which burns using the oil, is one’s ego. The ego is also known
as ‘ahem.’ This is one’s sense of ‘me’ and ‘mine’ that one develops
as a child and accumulates throughout life.
Daily lighting of a lamp can keep this awareness in your mind.
This awareness will shape your daily thoughts and actions. These
thoughts and actions will not only guide you to your best life but
also provide your family with the inspiration to do the same. This
awareness in every member of your family will spread the light to
those that they encounter in their day-to-day life. The light, being
ignited in individuals of a community, is the true significance of
Diwali. Each individual, affected by this light, carries the light
inside them and spreads it to others. That’s how you get a row of
lights, as envisioned in the Vedic tradition. Let’s acknowledge the
light in ourselves. Let’s keep it alive and allow it to be the beacon for
others. Namaste.
In fact, if you think about the story of Ram’s victory over Raavan,
there is a direct symbolism. Raavan has 10 heads. Most of us have
one head and it doesn’t take much to get it ‘full of hot air’ or ‘get
it up in the clouds.’ Imagine having 10 heads and being a king.
You are set for a life-long ego-trip. It is this ego that Lord Ram
has conquered in his victory over Raavan. This is what Diwali can
inspire each of us to pursue.
Dr Trivedi is a psychiatrist who treats children and adults. Please
visit www.mindbodyintegrated.com for more information and
wellness resources.
This sense of ‘me-mine,’ which we call the ego, is what keeps us
deeply buried in ignorance. The wick can easily get submerged in
www.CityMasala.com
CityMasalaDec2010.indd 20
20
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11/30/2010 2:22:45 PM
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CityMasalaDec2010.indd 23
11/30/2010 2:24:29 PM
Immigration Questions Answe
By: Neelofer Syed, ESQ
IMMIGRATION
Before I start this article I want to thank all the readers for appreciating
my articles. I hope to continue to provide CityMasala readers with as much
useful information as I can.
In this article, I will be answering some questions that I have received
from readers. I have chosen these questions because there could be a
lot of people facing similar situation and the answer to few will address
concerns of many. Please note we are not printing the names in order to
maintain privacy.
The first question was sent by a reader who is facing the issue of adding
his spouse on an already pending Green Card Application based on
Employment. Adding the spouse is not an issue in this matter but the issue
is something else. Here’s the question from the reader:
Question:
I have applied for my GC on Sep’2007 under priority date Mar’2005. Now I
got married to a woman who does not have any status, and she also have not
been entered U.S legally. She does not have any proof of the day she was entered
in the U.S. My questions are:
a)
b) Also when filling for I485, in form 325 Biographic information I want to
change family (parents) information, such as DOB, Country of Residence.
Can I do it now? Does it make any difference if it is not reported or updated
accurately on my file, if yes then what to do?
Answer:
It was not a big deal at all to add your wife only if she had entered legally and had
maintained her legal non immigrant status until the time you filed her Green Card
application. The only way you may still be able to do this is ONLY if she has 245(i)
benefit. In other words if she was a beneficiary of an immediate relative petition
or labor certification filed for her prior to April 30th 2001, or filed for any one in
her family through whom she could have claimed derivative status, then she could
potentially adjust through you in your current case. In terms of filing you will file
her application as soon as the priority date is current (as long as she is eligible to
adjust through what I explained above).
Regarding your next question about the G-325, you can prepare an amended
G-325 and send it in right now so that it can become a part of your file. You may
want to keep a copy with mailing confirmation to show it to the USCIS officer at
the time of your adjustment interview, in case you are scheduled for one.
Ms. Syed is a practicing attorney with Perez and Associates, specializing in immigration law. Please
send your questions concerning immigration issues to [email protected]
www.CityMasala.com
CityMasalaDec2010.indd 24
Can I join her in my pending status to get her GC, if so, then, do I need to
wait for Priority date for her?
24
December 2010
11/30/2010 2:30:19 PM
swered by Ms. Syed
Legal
Corner
Question:
My sister, who is a green card holder for the past 10 years, has been visiting the USA and
staying for 3 months at a time. Each time she comes here she applies for reentry permit and
has been granted so far till her last visit last year. She had to come back within a year this visit.
She came this month November and the immigration dept made a note in the system that
the next time she comes back they would have a judge decide the outcome if she will be allowed
to stay etc. My sister has children both in the USA and India and lot of property back in India.
Can you please suggest what the possible legal ramification are and what is the best option available
if she wants to keep coming back to the USA instead of staying here permanently at this time.
Thanks for your input.
Answer:
The Permanent residency, as the term suggests is for people who have the intention to reside in United
States on a permanent basis. Since you have not mentioned any reasons as to why your sister is
spending more time out of the United States, I will assume that your sister never really intended to stay
in the U.S. permanently and she is using her green card status more like the visitor visa.
The fact is that the CBP can very well place her in removal proceedings giving the reasons that she
apparently has abandoned her residency.
The law provides ways and means for permanent residents to live outside the United States for longer
periods. The Reentry Permit is one such example which is granted to people who are returning from
outside the U.S. after spending more than one year at a stretch or who are otherwise spending less time
in the U.S. than they are required to, due to legitimate
reasons.
In this case it is extremely important that your sister is
able to establish her ties in the United States. In other
words if she is placed in deferred inspection, or if she is
placed in removal proceedings for the reason that she
has potentially abandoned her residency, she needs to
be prepared to defend herself.
In order to defend herself she will first need to have
a legitimate reason for her staying outside the United
States for longer periods. Second, she must have
documentation showing that she has permanent ties
in United States like, her children, her residence (rent
or mortgage), bank accounts, driving license, auto and
other insurance, etc. Please note that this is just an
example of the documents. The point is that she will
need to overcome the assumption of abandonment of
her resident status.
Procedurally if she leaves this time, the next time
she enters, she can potentially be placed in removal
proceedings. At such time she will be given a Notice to
Appear before the immigration Court. I recommend that
she is represented by an Attorney at such proceedings
because these are complex matters and best handled
by experts in the field.
Lastly I wish all the readers a very Happy New Year.
Keep reading and lets hope the new year brings good
news about immigration reforms.
December 2010
CityMasalaDec2010.indd 25
25
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11/30/2010 2:30:56 PM
The gentle art of giving gifts
By: Asha Deshpande
It is that time of the year, when “Gifts” are on almost everyone’s mind. Giving gifts is not restricted to this season, however it is the season
when it is heavily observed. Gift giving is like an Equal Opportunity Employer. It has no bias toward gender, age, religion or region. The
wealthy probably get an easier pass, but it is not denied to the non-wealthy. All indulge in this act. The common denominator is the question,
“What should I gift?”
Some choices for gift giving are made easier. Take wedding gifts, for example. The new couple to be, makes a list of their wants, and posts it
in a wedding registry. Herein is listed every article they would want in their wedded life. Detailed information about this wedding registry is
sent out along with the invitations. Mercenary as this may seem, it is a good idea. It takes out the guesswork and stress of shopping for a gift.
It can be customized to meet the guest’s budget and their relationship to the couple. Everyone ends up happy, including the store where the
registry was done! This idea of Gift registry has proliferated to include Baby registries, House warming registries, etc.
Gift giving includes many other reasons too. Birthdays and Anniversaries, Graduation, New Job, Promotion, and Retirement, Special days
like Valentine’s Day, Mothers Day, Fathers Day, Boss’s Day, Secretary Day, the list goes on. But what sets this season apart is the magnitude
of volume and variety of gift giving.
So, faced with such a monumental task, it is well worth a moment to pause and ask oneself, “ What gift should I give to him or her?” This
question, however, should not be the first question, but the last question of a series of steps, which are the planning steps to gift giving.
To begin, ask yourself:
1.
Who is this person that I am giving this gift? How close am I to this person? How often do I interact with this person on a regular basis?
Depending upon the answer, the gift chosen should be an expression of how much they mean to you. How much, is not a monetary measurement,
but a measurement of what the gift is. A personalized CD of their favorite songs, or a collage of their favorite pictures may mean a lot more
than a store bought gift.
2.
What are their tastes? Does he/she like practical gifts or non-practical gifts?
Practical gifts could be a collection of his favorite flavors of coffee, or a year’s subscription to his favorite magazine. If she is someone who
enjoys cooking, get her something from Pampered chef. If it someone who enjoys eating good food, give them a year’s subscription to the
gourmet club or the dessert club. Non-practical gifts could be a collector’s item of his favorite football team, which could sit on his desk or
hang on the wall, just for him to show off. If she likes jewelry, get it, but include a gift receipt, unless you are absolutely sure of her taste. For
people who like to go out, dinner and movie tickets, or tickets to a concert are always good.
3.
What does she already have and can you add to the collection?
If she collects figurines of a certain kind, can you add to it? If she or he has been constantly harping on some subject, can you start them on a
collection?
4.
What does he want?
If this person is an athlete, a gift card to a sports store may serve in good stead. An avid reader would like a gift card to a bookstore. A movie
watcher would love a subscription to Netflix.
5.
What gift would stand out and make him truly appreciate it among the many gifts that he may receive? Is he or she someone who has
everything?
Customized gifts are ideal for such people. Consider getting something that is of personal value to them and have it showcased as befits the
person. Some people, who are blessed with a lot in their life, would appreciate something simple, like a bottle of their favorite drink with a note
informing them that a contribution has been made to their favorite charity.
6.
Finally consider a balance of both budget and time spent on a gift.
Depending on the extent of your relationship, both should be spent well. If you are shopping for an office party, where the budget is pre set,
and the gift selected is by Chinese auction, it is not worth spending too much time, since you don’t know who will end up with the gift. Just
pick up something appropriate.
Once you have answered all the above questions for a person, it will help you to decide on a gift. Always remember, it is the thought that
counts.
•
While all of the above is well and good for the recipient, do take care of some other things to make it easier on you.
•
One of the most important things is to make a list. List it, check it and mark off on it.
www.CityMasala.com
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26
Continued on page 30
December 2010
11/30/2010 2:32:01 PM
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www.CityMasala.com
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27
December 2010
11/30/2010 2:46:36 PM
Delightful December
By Kavita Agrawal
As the year comes to a close, it is going to be dhamaal at the box office. With Abhishek Bachchan &
Deepika Padukone in a period film, Akshay Kumar & Katrina Kaif in a heist, a wedding romance
Yash Raj style to a full on multi-starrer comedy flick - we’ve got it all this December making it truly
delectable and delightful!
December 3rd, 2010
Khelen Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Period film set in the post independence era by Ashutosh
Gowarikar after Jodha Akbar & Whats your Rashee. Abhishek Bachchan and Deepika
Padukone star in the lead roles. Khelen Hum.. is based on the book Do And Die by
Manini Chatterjee, a true story which narrates the Chittagong Uprising of 1930 against
the East India Company.
December 10th, 2010
Band Bajaa Baaraat (BBB)- is a romantic flick by the evergreen Yash Raj Studios. This film would
complete Anushka Sharma’s 3 film deal with YRF after Rab Ne Bana De Jodi & Badmaash Company.
It marks the debut of Ranveer Singh who is cast opposite Anushka. The debutant director Maneesh
Sharma tells the tale of 2 Delhi University students who open a wedding planning business in Delhi.
Music is by Saleem-Suleman. Watch out for some fun and dhamaal good old Delhi style!
No Problem- Want some mindless comedy with a huge starcast? Then it is literally “No Problem”! This
laugh riot tells the tale of two thieves who are brothers, planning a robbery while getting chased by
some crazy cops in South Africa. The starcast consists of Sanjay Dutt, Suniel Shetty, Anil Kapoor,
Akshaye Khanna, Kangana Ranaut, Sushmita Sen, Paresh Rawal and Neetu Chandra. The movie
is produced by Anil Kapoor with Anees Bazmee handling the direction.
December 24th,2010
Tees Maar Khan - Directed by Farah Khan after the super hit Om Shanti Om,
this movie stars the hit pair Akshay Kumar & Katrina Kaif alongwith Akshay
Khanna. Anil Kapoor and Salmaan Khan will be seen in a special appearance in
an item number. Sirish Kunder (Farah Khan’s husband) has penned the script and
Vishal-Shekar have given the music. The story revolves around a shameless guilt
free con artist aka thief played by Akshay on the run. Certainly a must dekho!
www.CityMasala.com
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December 2010
11/30/2010 2:33:11 PM
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Break Ke Baad
Continued from page 13
days.
You have two films releasing almost back to
back...
I would like to. I think it is something I would like
to do with Shah Rukh because I debuted with him.
I mean, we all know how successful all of his shows
are, and some of my biggest songs are with him
and Om Shanti Om. I would love to do a world tour.
I love dancing and I like performing, but I want to
make sure that I have a bank of songs before I do
that. Also, because I am really passionate about
dance I want to make sure that I have enough time
to do my rehearsals and perfect it before we start
performing.
Yes, a week after Break Ke Baad I have Khelein Hum
Jee Jaan Sey coming out on December 3rd, where I
play a very different de-glam role.
We also hear that you are back in the UK next
year for a shoot?
Yes. I have just started working on a new film called
Desi Boyz. It’s with John and Akshay. I have
started the Bombay schedule already, and we will be
shooting in London for a month in February I think.
How is Vishal-Shekar’s music for Break Ke
Baad?
There are also rumors that you have signed
Race 2?
It’s nice. It’s in a very nice indie-rock space. There
are a couple of songs I like. There’s a song called
‘Dooriyan’ which actually talks about how space in
a relationship is important. There is another track
‘Dhoop Ke Makaan’ which is a slightly sad love song,
which I really like, but at the same time it is not one
of those typically slow love songs. It is the kind of
music that I think everyone likes listening to these
It is not a rumor anymore, I am doing it. I can’t talk
about the film right now, but yes I can confirm that
I am a part of it and we start in the middle of next
year.
Break Ke Baad releases November 26
Quiz results
Continued from page 14
Results:
If your score is 30 or above you are a true “techie.” In fact, you love anything state-of-the-art and high-tech. When you see a new gadget,
you can’t wait to get your hands on it to not only see how it works, but learn more about what you can do with it. You are drawn to hightech products that can simplify your life, and you enjoy learning how to integrate these items into your life. In fact, you often find yourself
searching the Web for new high-tech gadgets. For this reason, you are a true lover of technology and adapt well to the high-tech world in
which we live.
If you’ve scored 20 to 29 you are a technophobe. You are afraid of anything electronic, computerized or new in the world of technology.
Because of your phobia of technology, you often rely on others to explain or show you how to use high-tech products. In fact, you are
afraid you can’t grasp any high-tech concepts on your own. A good way to “grow out of” being a technophobe is to research new products.
Actively seek out new high-tech items and make an effort to learn about how they work and what they can do for your life.
If your score is 19 or below you are neither a techie nor a technophobe. You are attracted to some high-tech items. You adapt to changes in
technology when it comes to new computer software for your job. But you are not the type of person to stand in line at the electronics store
when a new iPod is released. You care little about fancy high-tech items; you are only interested in those gadgets that are needed to keep up
with the level of technology that is considered the “norm” in society.
The Gentle Art of Giving Gifts
Continued from page 26
•
Listen to your family and friends and make note of things they say, wittingly or unwittingly! This will give you ideas as to what to get
for them.
•
Shop early. It will be less stressful.
•
Get familiar with a few stores, so you know their products and layout. This will come in handy in an unexpected situation.
•
Glance at the catalogs that come home, so you can look for new things.
•
Consider online shopping.
•
For generic gifts, try stores that do free gift-wrapping. This will save you a lot of time.
If all else fails, give something that is totally far fetched. The Queen was probably tickled pink when she received an iPod!
Happy Holidays!
www.CityMasala.com
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December 2010
11/30/2010 2:36:02 PM
CityMasalaDec2010.indd 31
11/30/2010 2:36:50 PM
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