Realizing The Value of Life – Sadhguru

Australian Indian Times
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Realizing The Value of Life – Sadhguru

Realizing The Value of Life – Sadhguru

Sadguru a yogiSadhguru: Every individual should make a little time for themselves as a piece of life. Not for your family, career or something else. Give a little time just for this piece of life, because this is the most important piece of life as far as you are concerned.
Even if you are in love with someone, still, this is the most important piece of life. Every individual should pay some attention to how this life happens. Unfortunately, too many people have taken it for granted. Believe me, this should not be taken for granted because you are not going to be here for ever. I will bless you with a long life but you are going to fall dead one day.
Of all the people who go to bed tonight, tens of thousands of people will not wake up tomorrow morning. So if you and me wake up tomorrow morning, is it not a fantastic thing? Thousands of people did not wake up but you woke up. Is that not a great thing?
So if you wake up tomorrow morning, just smile – you are still alive. And for many millions of people, someone dear to them did not wake up. So check if those five, six people around you have woken up. You woke up and everyone who matters to you around you woke up. Is it not a fantastic day?
The problem with most people is that that live as if they are immortal. You may not actually think you are immortal but you are not conscious of your mortality. How many moments in a day are you conscious that you are mortal? If you were conscious, would you have time to crib or fight with someone? Would you have time to do any nonsense in your life? If you were conscious that you are mortal, you would only do what is absolutely needed for you and everyone around you.
Do not think of this as something negative. Death is not a negative thing. It is the only thing which has added value to your life. If you were going to be here forever, you would be unbearable.
Everyone dies one day. You do not have to think “I will die today.” We do not intend to die today, we want to live as far as possible, but if you are just conscious that you will die one day, you will naturally become spiritual. Every day, every moment, remind yourself that this is a brief life, “I am mortal, one day I will end.” If you just do this for two days, you will become something truly fantastic within yourself. That is all that is needed. If you want to know the value of life, just know that this life is a brief happening.

Sofitel or Oaks: get ready to make some long-lasting memories

Australian Indian Times
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Sofitel or Oaks: get ready to make some long-lasting memories

Sofitel or Oaks: get ready to make some long-lasting memories

Oaks Hotels
Aerial view of the Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort.
Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites
Anzac Square behind the Sofitel Brisbane Central. Photo: Rama Gaind.

By Rama Gaind
As we turn our attention to booking holidays, getting the best accommodation package isn’t always easy. How about looking at whether you want to live the French way at the Sofitel or experience the Oaks difference?
The Sofitel Brisbane Central draws inspiration from local culture and tradition while celebrating innovation and the French art-de-vivre to offer a one-of-a-kind, luxurious hotel experience.
‘All the comforts of home but better’ are on offer at the Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites, with special packages on studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom options.
Indulge without lifting a finger over Easter as you celebrate a fun time of the year at the Sofitel Brisbane Central in Turbot Street. Create special memories over the ultimate feast with food stations laden with fresh seafood, salads, meats, internationally-inspired hot dishes, desserts and more. Alternatively, celebrate a memorable occasion in the luxurious surrounds of Club Millésime and be treated to an exquisitely curated four-course set menu with matching wines.
The refined ambience of a fine dining restaurant was an upscale experience with attentive staff and impeccable service. I still recall the memorable, joyful-inspired, open-kitchen, delectable dining experience on the 30th floor. I felt especial, chic and indulged. It was an enchanting time!

Sofitel or experience the Oaks difference
Sofitel Brisbane Central in Turbot Street. Photo: Rama Gaind.

General manager Kayte Staraj has invited us to indulge ourselves in life’s simple joys. “Bienvenue to Sofitel Brisbane Central, our five-star luxury hotel in Brisbane City. We invite you to live the French way, indulging in and celebrating the pleasures of life,” Kayte said.
During those cheerful few days, we appreciated exceptional views from one of the best luxury hotels in Brisbane, overlooking the iconic Anzac Square, the city’s exquisite skyline, as well as, the famed Sunshine Coast hinterland.
The hotel is centrally located within walking distance of Queen Street Mall, Eagle Street Pier beside the Brisbane River, South Bank Parklands and the Convention Centre. It also has direct access to Central Station with easy transportation to the airport, Brisbane Entertainment Centre and the Gold Coast.
Brisbane is the place to be with a vibrant cultural scene in the inner city and close-by neighbourhoods of South Bank and Fortitude Valley bursting with an exciting array of restaurants, bars and cafés.
Whether you’re looking for some lively beach days out with the family or simply want to soak up the sun by lazing poolside — Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites have many deals to please!
With travel open until 31 March 2024 and 42 properties to choose from across Australia and New Zealand, Oaks has your holiday sorted. Book now to get special deals.
Arguably one of the most stunning locations in Queensland, the Sunshine Coast is only a 60-minute drive north of Brisbane. Known for its sparkling coastline, hinterland, boutique shops, fresh seafood and unlimited water activities, it is the perfect spot for couples and families all year-round.
Ranked as one of the top 10 family resorts in Australia, Oaks Sunshine Coast Oasis Resort is a must-stay destination for your next vacation. With sweeping lush tropical grounds, a fun-filled waterpark, a resort-style pool, a putt-putt golf course, and more, there’s a wide range of activities for kids of all ages.
Searching for the ultimate chance to unwind? Then head for the Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort. Home to one of the largest swimming pools in Australia, choose from one-, two- or three-bedroom apartments packed with all the comforts of home.
Set among palm-fringed pools and lush gardens, the recently refurbished Oaks Casuarina Santai Resort features a blend of contemporary and traditional Balinese design. This iconic Kingscliff resort is a comfortable retreat. With the idyllic Tweed Coast on your doorstep, it’s easy to explore everything Casuarina and Kingscliff have to offer.
Get motivated and book your holiday so you can pack your bags, create that fresh holiday playlist and — don’t forget your swimsuit, sunglasses and sunscreen — as you explore somewhere new!

Confident of return, Council of Ministers readies 100-day action plan after Lok Sabha polls

Australian Indian Times
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Confident of return, Council of Ministers readies 100-day action plan after Lok Sabha polls

Confident of return, Council of Ministers readies 100-day action plan after Lok Sabha polls

Lok Sabha pollsPM Modi chairs day-long meeting for the last time before the announcement of the election schedule. He will also tour five states in the next three days.

Meeting in New Delhi for the last time before the announcement of the schedule for the Lok Sabha elections, the Union Council of Ministers, confident that the ruling alliance would be voted to power for a third consecutive term, discussed Sunday a 100-day action plan to be implemented by the new government after the polls.

The day-long meeting of the Union Council of Ministers, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saw presentations by Secretaries on a vision document for Viksit Bharat 2047 and a detailed action plan for the next five years.

In these presentations, the Prime Minister’s vision for Viksit Bharat was outlined, sources said, underlining that these included zero poverty, skill to every youth, and 100 per cent saturation of welfare schemes.

Modi was quoted as having told the officers to continue their work on government projects and schemes and not treat the election period as a vacation when the political leadership will be busy with the electoral process.

Lok Sabha polls 1

“Aap chhutti mat samajhiye, kaam par lag jaaiye (don’t think you are on holiday, get down to work)… When it comes back after the elections, the government will work with new vigour and zeal, “ sources quoted him as having said.

Sources said, “The roadmap for Viksit Bharat is a result of more than two years of intensive preparation. It involved a whole-of-government approach involving all ministries and wide-ranging consultations with state governments, academia, industry bodies, civil society, scientific organisations and mobilisation of youth for seeking their ideas, suggestions and inputs. More than 2700 meetings, workshops and seminars were held at various levels. Suggestions of more than 20 lakh youth were received.”

The roadmap, the sources said, has a “comprehensive blueprint with clearly articulated national vision, aspirations, goals and action points”.

The goals include economic growth, sustainable development goals (SDGs), ease of living, ease of doing business, infrastructure and social welfare.

A 100-day agenda for “immediate steps” was also worked upon for quick implementation after the formation of the new government in May, the sources said.

The Council held its meeting at a time when the Election Commission of India is expected to announce the schedule for the Lok Sabha elections in the coming days, and parties are working on election manifestos, campaign plans and lists of candidates.

On Saturday, the BJP announced its first list of candidates for 195 seats across states and Union Territories.

Prime Minister Modi, who has already been touring states, is scheduled to visit Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, West Bengal and Bihar on March 4-6.

In Telangana, the Prime Minister will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of projects worth over Rs 56,000 crore in Adilabad. He will also inaugurate and lay the foundation

stone of projects worth more than Rs 6,800 crore in Sangareddy.

In Hyderabad, Modi will inaugurate the Civil Aviation Research Organization (CARO). In Tamil Nadu, he will witness the initiation of core loading of the indigenous Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor at Kalpakkam.

In Odisha, Modi is scheduled to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth more than Rs 19,600 crore in Chandikhole.

He will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of multiple connectivity projects worth Rs 15,400 crore in Kolkata, and infrastructure worth Rs 12,800 crore in Bettiah in Bihar. He will also inaugurate the Muzaffarpur-Motihari LPG pipeline and dedicate to the nation the Indian Oil LPG bottling plant and storage terminal in Motihari.

South Bank Piazza Hosts Grand Pongal Festival Celebration 1st time in its 11 years of celebrations

Australian Indian Times
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South Bank Piazza Hosts Grand Pongal Festival Celebration 1st time in its 11 years of celebrations

South Bank Piazza Hosts Grand Pongal Festival Celebration 1st time in its 11 years of celebrations

South Bank Piazza Hosts Grand Pongal Festival celebation

South Bank Piazza Hosts Grand Pongal Festival bBrisbane (13/01/2024) – The vibrant spirit of Pongal, the traditional South Indian harvest festival, illuminated the South Bank Piazza in Brisbane as the Queensland Tamil Mandram and Thaai Tamil School organised a spectacular celebration. The event was made possible with the generous support of title sponsors Tradern Australia and ARBT Prefab, and many other sponsors witnessed the participation of esteemed guests, including Hon MP Charis Mullen, Councillor Angela Owen, Senator Paul Scarr, Councillor Trina Massey, making it a truly memorable occasion.

The South Bank Piazza, adorned with colourful decorations and resonating with traditional music and dance sounds, has become the epicentre of cultural exchange and joyous festivities. Pongal, a harvest festival celebrated predominantly in the Tamil community, symbolises the abundance of the harvest season and is an occasion to express gratitude for nature’s bounties.

South Bank Piazza Hosts Grand Pongal Festival a

South Bank Piazza Hosts Grand Pongal Festival by women
The Pongal committee worked tirelessly to bring the Pongal celebrations to South Bank Piazza, creating a sense of unity and cultural pride. The event aimed to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Tamil community and foster cross-cultural understanding among the diverse population of Brisbane.

South Bank Piazza Hosts Grand Pongal Festival
This year’s Pongal Festival at South Bank piazza marked a departure from tradition and underscored the adaptability and resilience of cultural celebrations. The QTM TTS and sponsors have successfully paved the way for a new chapter in the continuous celebration of Pongal in Brisbane, solidifying the festival’s place in the city’s diverse cultural landscape.

Varnam Cultural Society (QLD) hosts a Citizenship Ceremony

Australian Indian Times
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Varnam Cultural Society (QLD) hosts a Citizenship Ceremony

Varnam Cultural Society (QLD) hosts a Citizenship Ceremony

Varnam Cultural Society (QLD) hosts a Citizenship Ceremony e

Varnam Cultural Society (QLD) hosts a Citizenship Ceremony bJanuary 26th, Australia Day, is now synonymous with citizenship ceremonies across this glorious country. Likewise, the Varnam Cultural Society (QLD) is synonymous with the successful execution of various multicultural events and hosts a Citizenship Ceremony this Australia Day.

Varnam Cultural Society (QLD) hosts a Citizenship Ceremony c A Citizenship Ceremony is a significant occasion that marks the welcoming of a new cohort to the diverse tapestry of our nation. Traditionally, local councils commemorate Australia Day by orchestrating such ceremonies, uniting individuals from all backgrounds to partake in the solemn recitation of the pledge of commitment – the culminating step in their journey towards Australian citizenship. For the Varnam Cultural Society, this marks our inaugural hosting of the Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony.

Varnam Cultural Society (QLD) hosts a Citizenship CeremonyIn the early morning hours, Varnam Cultural Society members convened with enthusiasm to meticulously prepare for the ceremony at the local Springfield Lakes State School. They were soon joined by Hon. Milton Dick, Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Federal Member for Oxley and Charis Mullen MP, Minister for Child Safety, Seniors, Disability & Multicultural Affairs, State Member for this Jordan electorate.

Varnam Cultural Society (QLD) hosts a Citizenship Ceremony a Hon. Teresa Harding, Mayor of Ipswich, Cr, accompanied the distinguished ministers—Paul Tully, representing Division 2 as an Ipswich Councillor, and Cr. Nicole Jonic, also from Ipswich City Council, is serving as Councillor for Division 2. By approximately 8:15 AM, the atmosphere was imbued with joy as the new citizens arrived to partake in the final stage of their journey towards Australian Citizenship.

Varnam Cultural Society (QLD) hosts a Citizenship Ceremony fThe ceremony commenced with a vibrant opening by Rajarajan Thennavan, President of the Varnam Cultural Society, extending a warm welcome to all attendees on their joyous occasion. Hon. Milton Dick MP, as the Presiding Officer, adeptly presided over the ceremony with grace and dignity, elevating the experience into a truly memorable occasion for our new citizens. Guiding the proceedings, he administered the pledge to the new citizens. Hon. Charis Mullen MP delivered an inspiring speech, instilling a sense of unity and pride among all present.
The pledge-taking ceremony culminated with a rendition of the Australian National Anthem, skilfully led by the talented Lakhsheeny M Parasuraman, whose mesmerising voice resonated throughout the gathering. Following the ceremony, the Presiding officer and the guests generously participated in photo sessions, creating lasting memories for the new citizens and contributing to the overall significance of the day.
Varnam Cultural Society and its dedicated members take pride in orchestrating yet another successful debut in hosting a government event, underscoring their unwavering commitment to the Greater Springfield community service.
Congratulations to all new citizens of this magnificent land, our home, Australia!
By Rekha N Swamy
Public Relations Officer
Varnam Cultural Society

Kairali Brisbane’s Christmas and New Year event shares joy and cheers

Australian Indian Times
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Kairali Brisbane’s Christmas and New Year event shares joy and cheers

Kairali Brisbane’s Christmas and
New Year event shares joy and cheers

Kairali Brisbane’s Christmas and New Year event shares joy and cheers d

The holiday season in Brisbane, Australia, was illuminated with the warmth and cheer of Kairali’s remarkable Christmas and New Year events. With festive spirit in the air and hearts brimming with joy, Kairali Brisbane, one of the prominent organisations in Queensland known for its commitment to cultural exchange and community engagement, orchestrated a memorable celebration that brought together family, friends and community from all walks of life under the new leadership of Mr Tom Jose Anithottathil.

Kairali Brisbane’s Christmas and New Year event shares joy and cheers b

The event was held on the 20th of January 2024 at Logan West Community Centre, Hillcrest, co-ordinated by Mr. Jay Nair and Dr. Jaisy Arikkatt, captivating around 500 attendees. The event hosted dignitaries and community leaders, including Fr. Abraham Nadukunnel, Parish priest, St. Thomas, the Apostle Syro-Malabar Forane Church, Brisbane South, Mr James Martin MP, Member for Stretton, Mr Jon Raven, Councillor, Logan City Council, Mr Anoop Nannaru, President, FICQ, Mr Shyam Das, immediate past President FICQ. The Master of ceremonies, Mr Jay Nair and Mrs Ramya Vishnu, with warmth and sincerity, guests to partake in the joyous festivities, encouraging participation and interaction that enriched the communal experience. Attendees were treated to performances featuring mesmerising Margam kali dances, soul-stirring Carol songs, and Bollywood dance performances. Amidst the jubilant atmosphere and twinkling lights, Santa’s arrival added a touch of magic and wonder to the festivities, bringing joy and laughter to children and adults alike. The stage came alive with a Laser DJ show conducted by DJ Manu Anthony. The evening was filled with a kaleidoscope of talent and creativity. One of the event’s highlights was the culinary extravaganza, a five-course meal organised by Five-star catering by chef Tom that delighted the senses and tantalised taste buds. The aroma of spices mingled with the laughter and chatter of attendees, creating an ambience of warmth and friendliness.

Kairali Brisbane’s Christmas and New Year event shares joy and cheers c

“Our celebration transcends boundaries of culture, language, and tradition, bringing together people from all walks of life to revel in the joy of togetherness and shared humanity exclaimed. Mr. Thomas Jose Anithottathil is the president of Kairali Brisbane. “Through our events and initiatives, we seek to celebrate the richness and diversity of our tradition while also nurturing a sense of belonging and inclusivity that transcends borders and barriers.” Mr Shibu Eldho, Secretary of Kairali Brisbane, expressed his gratitude, stating, “The success of the event would not have been possible without the support and collaboration of federal and state governments, City Council, local businesses, community organisations, dedicated volunteers and performers who contributed their time, talent and resources to make this event a resounding success”.

Kairali Brisbane’s Christmas and New Year dance event shares joy and cheers e

As we bid farewell to the holiday season, the memories of Kairali’s spectacular celebration will linger in the hearts and minds of all who attended, serving as a testament to the enduring spirit of joy, generosity, and goodwill that defines the holiday season. In the tapestry of Brisbane’s cultural landscape, Kairali’s event has woven a vibrant unity and celebration, illuminating the city with the timeless magic of Christmas and the promise of a new year filled with hope and possibility.

Kairali Team 2023-2024
Kairali Team 2023-2024

Home Remedies for Hair Repair, Hair Growth, and Preventing Greying

Australian Indian Times
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Home Remedies for Hair Repair, Hair Growth, and Preventing Greying

Home Remedies for Hair Repair, Hair Growth, and Preventing Greying

Home Remedies for Hair Repair

Nimisha Modi

Hey Girls, we have very common problems with our hair due to the regular use of chemicals. Here, I am sharing some home Remedies for hair repair, hair growth and preventing greying.

Indian Gooseberry (Amla):
Tips to control hair fall and promote hair growth are incomplete without mentioning alma, also known as Indian Goose Berry; it is a popular remedy used in Ayurveda. Regularly applying amla directly on hair helps strengthen the hair follicles, stimulates hair growth, and prevents hair breakage and split ends. Amla has many magical properties; it is filled with antioxidants and vitamin C. Amla is good for healthy hair growth and is known for improving hair pigmentation. Mix 2 teaspoons of Amla juice with two teaspoons of lime juice. Apply this mixture on the scalp and leave it to dry for 2 hours. Rinse off with warm water.

Garlic
This popular kitchen herb is well-known for its intense flavours and numerous health benefits. Garlic is one of the fast hair growth home remedies and is majorly known for controlling hair fall. It is also one of the most popular home remedies for scalp fungus. It boosts the circulation in the scalp and regenerates hair growth. Boil 7 to 8 cloves of crushed garlic with olive oil and apply it to the roots of the hair follicles. Repeat this thrice a week to notice the difference.

Vitamin E Oil
Filled with antioxidants, vitamin E oil fights the free radicals. It helps to increase oxygen in the body and improves blood circulation in the scalp. Massage your scalp with vitamin E oil and leave it overnight. Wash it with a mild shampoo the following day to gain silky smooth hair. Rosemary Oil: Rosemary oil is one of the best oils to reduce hair loss, usually found in Middle Eastern countries. Prepared from rosemary herb, this oil increases cell division and accelerates blood circulation. It has proved to be effective for hair growth and is used as a hair tonic.

Rosemary Oil
Take two tablespoons of shampoo and mix two tablespoons of rosemary oil into it. Shampoo your hair with this mixture. You can also massage your scalp with equal amounts of olive oil and rosemary oil.
Potatoes: Being a rich source of nutrients such as vitamins A, B and C, calcium, potassium, iron and phosphorus, potatoes are an excellent natural remedy for hair growth, preventing dryness of hair and premature greying. Take 1 ½ cups of potato juice in a bowl. Add a teaspoon of honey, a little water, and one egg yolk and mix it together. Apply this mixture to damp hair and leave it on for 30 minutes. Wash off with a mild shampoo.

Potatoes for hair:
Doing this once a week is more than enough to strengthen and rejuvenate weak and brittle hair. After a few months, you will notice a change in your hair. look after yourself in Summer. See you next time – Nimisha

Birth, Death and Moments Between, a book by Nerin Naidu

Australian Indian Times
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Birth, Death and Moments Between, a book by Nerin Naidu

Birth, Death and Moments Between, a book by Nerin Naidu

birth dealth and moments between Book

birth dealth and moments between Book by Nerin Naidu b
Nerin Naidu

Birth, Death and Moments Between is a collection of short stories about women: their struggle, strife, success and survival in an ever-changing world. The new release by Brisbane author Nerin Naidu spans multiple generations, continents, and cultures, giving words to those without voices and voices to those without words.
Nerin’s debut collection of short stories is brutally honest, sometimes painfully so, scattered with moments of joy, love, regret, hate, and desire – all the traits and emotions that make us human.

About Nerin
Nerin was born as a middle child to a fourth-generation South African Indian family.
While in University, Nerin found her two true passions: anthropology, learning about different cultural groups and creative writing, putting pen to paper and letting her thoughts run free.
Nerin graduated from the University of Durban Westville as a teacher. She studied further in South Africa, obtaining her Bachelor of Education.
“For only through education can you succeed,” reiterated her mother’s words, a teacher herself.
Nerin secured a position as a high school teacher and travelled during the school holidays, unknowingly captivated to remember the lives of people she encountered. She came to a crossroads that would determine the future course of her life.
Job opportunities opened up concurrently in both Canada and Australia. Nerin fell in love with Canada before she even stepped foot on the icy white ground.
She said, “Looking down from the aeroplane’s window seat at the snow-covered landscape below, I felt the calling of home. Stepping off the plane, the cold air that stung my nostrils and slithered into my lungs refreshed me like the very first life-giving breath of a suffocating neonate; the blanketed trees, seeking respite from the Summer’s heat, brought comfort to my scorched soul. It still does every time I’m blessed with the sight of the first purest of snowfall.”
Yet Australia beckoned to her louder and more robustly with an urgent, determined that she would call Australia home.
And so she did, immigrating to a sun-kissed, searing-hot rural town in Queensland.
Nerin continued to study while working as a teacher, completing her Master of Education from the University of Melbourne and another Master of Education in Guidance in Counselling from the University of Queensland.
Nerin dedicated her entire existence to those she loved most: her family and the children she nurtured daily as a special education teacher in Brisbane and later head and leader of a sizeable inclusive education unit at a private college, a department she started from the ground up.
She also volunteered as a grief and loss counsellor, listening to those who needed it most.
Happiness seldom lasts, as Nerin found, suffering a heart attack while assisting a student at work, followed by the tragic loss of her brother. She had a second heart attack as she navigated through the journey of a busy life.
Nerin believes she is the person she is today because of yesterday’s struggle. She pens her deepest thoughts and experiences, personal and those of others, that she encountered on her tediously long and, in reality, brusquely short journey through life.
Nerin is retired. She now volunteers to teach and present creative and expressive writing workshops using art and meditation.
Nerin feels an exhilaration in sharing stories that need telling, stories of significant and defining moments, for she is every woman: a mother, a friend, a daughter, a sister, a teacher, a cousin, an aunt, a wife chipped in places and sometimes frayed at the seams, but whole moving forward with a determined drive as life and love goes on.
Her debut collection of short stories, Birth, Death and Moments Between, reflects life as it happens.
Please visit her website for details of workshops and the availability of her book.
www.nerinnaidu.com
Birth, Death and Moments Between by Nerin Naidu is also available on Amazon Internationally.

IN MEMORIAM – MRS RAM DULARI (1921 – 2023)

Australian Indian Times
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IN MEMORIAM – MRS RAM DULARI (1921 – 2023)

IN MEMORIAM
MRS RAM DULARI (1921 – 2023)

Ram Dulari

Few people may remember that a Fiji-born Indian grandmother, widow of Martintar canefarmer Ram Dulare, passed away, aged 102 years, after a short illness at Royal Brisbane Women’s Hospital on December 4, 2023 – just a month before celebrating her next birthday. Her family gave her an appropriate farewell at the Lakeside Hall at Albany Creek Gardens. Below is the eulogy that a very close family friend Praveen Chandra delivered to a diverse group of mourners. It was both moving and full of insight into the various facets of our mother’s rich life.

Mrs. Ram Dulari – Eulogy

As we reflect Amma’s (mother) 102-year life, we are reminded of the profound impact she had on all of us and the countless lives she touched. Amma was born in the village of Vuniyasi in the picturesque town of Nadi, Fiji on 9 January 1921. Amma’s father’s name was Hari Das Sadhu. He was an educated and learned man and an ardent follower of guru Kabir Das. He had come from India with his parents as an eight-year-old boy. His parents Tara Das and Rajwanti, were from a village in Rajasthan and were induced to sail to Fiji under the infamous “girmit” system.

Amma attended Andrews Government Primary School. In her book, Amma describes an interesting incident in school regarding her wedding dream as:

“When I reached Class Six, the girls and boys had separate desks. It was during this time that an interesting incident occurred that was to change my life later. In my class, there was a boy, Ram Dulare. Whenever the teacher called out his name, I would stand up because of the similarities of our names. This used to cause mirth in the classroom. One day, I dropped my pencil and when I tried to pick it up Ram Dulare recovered it and gave it to me. Our hands brushed gently. Even though I was a very young girl, the thought flashed in my mind that this is the boy whom I would like to marry. How prescient this was! Eventually, my wishful dream did come true.”

Amma was the classical romantic. Much later in Brisbane she became an ardent listener of Radio Brizvaani and would regularly phone the announcers to request songs to be played for her. One of her favourite songs was from film Dulari – “Suhani raat dhal chuki, na jane tum kab aaoge.”

Amma and Pitaji were married at the Vuniyasi home on 13 March 1935 and Amma moved into her home at Martintar. In due course Amma bore seven children, Vijendra Kumar, Krishna Kumari, Kusum Kumari, Sudha Kumari, Satya Kumari, Ajendra Kumar and Sarojini Kumari. All the children received good education and held good jobs. The eldest son Vijendra Kumar had the great honour of being appointed the first local editor of the Fiji Times in March 1975. They all got married and have wonderful families. Vijendra bhaiya lives in Brisbane; Krishna Kumari lives in San Franscisco; Kusum Kumari lives in Brisbane; Sudha Kumari lives in Canada; Ajendra Kumar lives in New Zealand and Sarojini Kumari lives in Sydney. Tragically, Amma’s beloved daughter Satya passed away at her home in Suva in 2011.

In 1986, Amma and Pitaji were sponsored to migrate to Sydney, Australia by their daughter Saroj. Saroj also took Amma and Pitaji to tour India, Canada and the USA.

In 1991 their eldest son, Vijendra Kumar and daughter-in-law Sadan migrated to Brisbane with their two sons, Jerry and Noddy, and their daughter, Kartika. Amma and Pitaji decided to move to Brisbane in 1993 to be closer to Vijendra bhaiya and his family. They lived independently in Ashgrove.

In 2010 great tragedy hit the family when Pitaji passed away at the age of around 90 years. Despite this painful setback Amma continued to live an independent life on her own, supported by numerous friends and family; and ably cared for by Sushila Massey.

Amma and Pitaji had been happily married for 75 happy years.

In May 2013 Amma was diagnosed with a blood clot in her right leg. Surgeons had no option but to do an amputation at the Royal Brisbane Women’s Hospital. For a 92-year-old woman who had lived an active and busy life, this had a devastating effect.

It was during her long recovery period at the Dolphin House that she herself came up with the idea of writing her own life story. Vijendra bhaiya encouraged her and gave her a pen and a notebook and urged her to spend a couple of hours daily writing her journal in Hindi.

Three months later we produced her book “My Story”.

One would think that great setbacks Amma went through would restrict her gregarious ways. But this was not so. She continued to live independently and entertain her guests, and, furthermore, she travelled to Fiji in March 2016 for a sentimental journey to her old home at Martin Tar with her granddaughter Kartika. Rumours have it that the girls had a ball of a time in Fiji.

On Amma’s 100th birthday, she received congratulatory messages from the Premier of Queensland Hon Annastacia Palaszczuk; the Governor of Queensland, The Hon Paul de Jersy AC; the Governor General of Australia, His Excellency David Hurley AC DSC (Retd.); the then Prime Minister of Australia, The Hon Scott Morrison; and from Queen Elizabeth of England.

Also, in 2021 we revamped her book “My Story” and retitled it “A Hundred Year Journey”.

Amma was not only a master of the kitchen; she was also a maestro in the art of hospitality. Her home was a place of refuge, where friends and family found solace in her warm embrace and the welcoming atmosphere she created. The doors of her home were always open, and the laughter that echoed within its walls reflected the love that radiated from her heart. Today, as we remember her, let us cherish the memories of shared laughter around the dining table and the joyous occasions illuminated by her culinary creations.

As we bid farewell to our Amma today, let us not mourn the end of her journey but celebrate the legacy she leaves behind. Her love, wisdom, and generosity have woven a tapestry that will continue to grace our lives for generations to come. Let us carry forward the lessons she imparted, the love she shared, and the joy she spread.

In the words of Rabindranath Tagore, “Death is not extinguishing the light; it is only putting out the lamp because the dawn has come.”

King Charles 111 congratulates Mr and Mrs Sharma on their Milestone 66th wedding Anniversary

Australian Indian Times
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King Charles 111 congratulates Mr and Mrs Sharma on their Milestone 66th wedding Anniversary

King Charles 111 congratulates Mr and Mrs Sharma on their Milestone 66th wedding Anniversary

King Charles 111 congratulates Mr and Mrs Sharma on their Milestone 66th wedding Anniversary

Mr Hari Dutt Sharma and Mrs Arun Sharma celebrated their milestone 66th wedding anniversary on 28th December 2023; a get-together was organised at Saffron Indian Restaurant to mark the historic event.
Letters of Congratulations were received from King Charles 111 and Camila, Queen Consort, Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese, former Queensland premier Anastacia Palaszczuk, Deputy Opposition Leader, Shadow Treasurer and Shadow Minister for Commonwealth Games Mr John-Paul Langbroek, Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate, Member for Moncrieff- Ms Angie Bell MP.

King Charles 111 congratulates Mr and Mrs Sharma on their Milestone 66th wedding Anniversarya
Mr Hari Dutt Sharma, originally from Fiji, has traced his roots back to Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, India. His father arrived in Fiji in 1913. After tracing his roots to India, Hari Dutt Sharma wrote a book on the experience, a copy of which has been presented to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Mrs Arun Sharma ancestry is from Rajasthan India.
Mr Hari Dutt Sharma turned 91 on 18th November; he had served in the Ministry of Education, where he was in charge of scholarships, etc; many of his friends remember him from his days at Vivekananda College.
During his younger days, he was a keen soccer player and represented the Labasa team; he was nicknamed “Fiji Airways” as he was swift on the field. He became the team captain and later on a coach; he was once selected to the Suva team, though he did not get a chance to play for Suva.

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