From Cold Days to Warm Hearts: Celebrating Community, Culture & Change

The cold weather has certainly set in, but I hope you’ve been staying warm and finding time to enjoy everything our vibrant and diverse community has to offer. As many of you requested in our community surveys, I’ve included a little bit of everything this month. And yes — I’m aiming to relaunch the surveys later this year so I can keep hearing about what matters most to you.

One of the recent highlights for me was attending the Brisbane City Council’s Youth Entrepreneurship Expo, held at Indooroopilly Golf Club on May 29. It was such an inspiring event, where local high school students and their parents had the chance to hear directly from some of Brisbane’s emerging young business leaders. Speakers like Mitch Robinson from iDuu Identification, Sam Ward from Vlor Esports, Yarra Kiseleva from Seatfinder, and Kit Keulemans from Tomorrow Hope shared valuable insights on building a business, seizing opportunities, and overcoming challenges. It was a great reminder of the incredible talent and drive we have right here in our community — and how important it is to support the next generation of changemakers.

The timing couldn’t have been better, with World Environment Day falling just a few days later on June 1. I’ve personally found joy in starting a small beekeeping hobby at home. It’s a simple way for me to support the environment, promote healthy living, and encourage others to do the same. Every small effort counts, and it’s often those little actions that create a ripple effect. A heartfelt thank you to the Deo family — especially Salam, who runs African Grocery and Injera Bakery in Oxley, and Ethiopian Village in Moorooka — as well as to Hosanna Church Brisbane and the many residents and friends who continue to support me and uplift the next generation.

On May 17, I had the honour of volunteering at the annual Girmit Remembrance Day, hosted by the Deo Family Charitable Foundation. I can’t thank them enough for the guidance and encouragement they provide to me and so many others. That’s why I was so pleased to volunteer once again. It was a moving event that continues to grow each year, as we come together to recognise the legacy of the Girmitiyas — Indian indentured labourers who migrated to British colonies under contract in the 19th century. The term “Girmit” itself is derived from a mispronunciation of “Agreement,” and their stories are a powerful reminder of resilience, sacrifice, and strength. The heartfelt speeches touched many, especially those still healing from this shared history. Thanks to the tireless work of the Deo family and dedicated volunteers, their memories will never be forgotten — especially throughout our local community.

It was also a pleasure to join the Deo family, community leaders, and many friends again at the GOPIO India Day Fair Fundraising Dinner on June 13. These gatherings always remind me of how powerful community can be when people come together with purpose. I especially love volunteering alongside my mum — something we’ve always shared with pride. I cant wait to see everyone at India Day Fair at Roma Street Parklands. Where President Usha Chandra and her team will welcome everyone with open arms and be sure to say hi to JD and the team, including me.

On a more pressing note, particularly with the cold weather upon us, many are concerned about the rising cost of electricity. It has been reported that households are now facing price increases of nearly 10%, with South-East Queenslanders expected to see rises between 0.5% and 3.7%. Small businesses may be hit even harder, depending on their location. The impact is real, especially as so many continue to struggle with the cost of living.

There are steps you can take that might help, such as using a smart meter to track your energy use, checking whether you’re on the best tariff, setting budget alerts, or applying for government rebates. If you’re considering solar energy, JD is always happy to offer guidance to families exploring that path. Feel free to contact them — or me — as I know many local charities that may be able to help.

Looking ahead, make sure to save the date — August 23 at 5:00 PM at Runcorn Tavern. Joyce Taylor and the team at SASS Functions are hosting a night of connection, culture, and celebration, combining Belated Mother’s Day, Harmony Day, and International Women’s Day into one unforgettable evening. There’ll be amazing food, music from DJ Big Mike, community awards, raffles, and plenty of love to go around. Tickets can be purchased via the event page for Roots & Radiance: The Luxe Edition.

Lastly, I was thrilled to be part of the grand opening of Reeney’s Taste on April 26 — the first Samoan dine-in and takeaway café in Ellen Grove, located at 65 Woogaroo Street. The event was full of joy, music, heartfelt prayer, and of course, delicious food. Pastor Joshua Avia gave a powerful speech, and Pastor Helen Avia helped unveil the name alongside Reeney and her family. Reeney, a proud Samoan-Australian and long-time local, spoke with deep emotion about her journey and the love behind every dish. Her motto says it all: “Island vibes served with a smile.”

Reeney’s Taste is now open Wednesday to Saturday, from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM — and I encourage you to stop by and experience it for yourself. Meals start at just $10, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a place that serves up as much heart and soul in every bite. When dining out isn’t always an option for everyone, this might just be the treat that brightens your day.

Until next time, stay warm, stay connected, and keep supporting one another.

Yoga: A Timeless Key to a Healthy Lifestyle

By Jitendra Deo
Chief Executive Officer
JD Group Australia

In today’s fast-paced world, where stress, unhealthy routines, and constant digital distractions dominate our lives, maintaining a healthy lifestyle has become both a necessity and a challenge.

Amidst this chaos, the ancient practice of yoga offers a grounded and time-tested solution. As someone who has experienced its benefits firsthand, I truly believe yoga is not just a physical exercise—it’s a complete way of life that can lead to balance, clarity, and well-being.

Yoga is more than stretching or holding poses. Rooted in ancient Indian philosophy, the word “yoga” comes from the Sanskrit root “yuj,” meaning union—specifically, the union of body, mind, and spirit. It’s this holistic nature that makes yoga so unique and powerful. While many forms of exercise focus solely on building muscle, burning calories, or improving endurance, yoga integrates mental, physical, emotional, and even spiritual health into one practice.

One reason I advocate for yoga as a core part of a healthy lifestyle is its incredible accessibility. It doesn’t require fancy equipment or a gym membership. Whether you’re a beginner, a senior citizen, or someone recovering from an illness, there’s a yoga style suitable for you. Gentle forms like Hatha or Restorative yoga are perfect for newcomers or those with physical limitations, while more dynamic forms like Vinyasa or Power Yoga challenge even the most athletic individuals. This universality is rare in fitness, and it’s one of yoga’s greatest strengths.

Beyond physical flexibility and strength—which yoga certainly enhances—it also promotes mental clarity. In our modern world, anxiety, depression, and burnout are becoming alarmingly common. I’ve found that incorporating yoga into my daily life, even for just 15–30 minutes a day, has made a significant difference in my emotional state. The deep, mindful breathing and focused movements help quiet the mental chatter and create space for calmness and reflection. This mental discipline, cultivated over time, becomes a powerful tool for managing stress and improving overall mental resilience.

Moreover, yoga encourages introspection and a deeper connection with oneself. Unlike other workouts that emphasize performance or competition, yoga is inward-focused. It teaches self-acceptance, patience, and gratitude. On the mat, we learn to listen to our bodies—to move with intention, to rest when needed, and to celebrate progress without judgment. These lessons naturally extend into our daily lives, helping us form healthier habits, make conscious choices, and treat ourselves and others with compassion.

Physiologically, the benefits of regular yoga practice are supported by research. Yoga helps improve posture, increase flexibility, build muscle strength, support cardiovascular health, aid digestion, and even boost immunity. The breathing techniques (pranayama) and meditative elements improve oxygen flow, reduce blood pressure, and calm the nervous system. All of these contribute to a stronger, more resilient body and a balanced mind.
From my perspective, true health isn’t just about physical appearance or fitness levels. It’s about how we feel—our energy, our mood, our ability to face life’s challenges with grace and strength. Yoga nurtures this kind of holistic health. It teaches us to be present, to breathe through discomfort, and to find stillness amid chaos.

Yoga is not just important—it is essential for leading a healthy lifestyle in today’s world. It reminds us that health is not a destination, but a continuous journey of balance and self-awareness. Whether you are seeking physical strength, mental peace, or emotional healing, yoga meets you where you are and guides you toward wholeness.

If you haven’t already started practicing yoga, I encourage you to take that first step—not to impress others or master a pose, but to reconnect with yourself. You might just discover that the key to true wellness has been within you all along.

Yoga and Its Benefits: Celebrating World Yoga Day on June 21

June 21 marks an important day for millions across the world, as they celebrate the ancient practice of Yoga. This day not only honors the philosophy of yoga but also highlights the myriad of benefits it offers to people of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels.

YOGA, a time-honored tradition originating from India thousands of years ago, has become a global health movement. It is no longer just a physical exercise but a holistic practice that unites the body, mind, and soul. From improving flexibility and strength to promoting mental clarity and emotional well-being, yoga’s benefits are diverse and profound. With World Yoga Day taking place on June 21 each year, this celebration underscores yoga’s universal appeal and its capacity to foster balance in today’s fast-paced world.

The Origins and Philosophy of Yoga

Yoga has ancient roots, with its origins tracing back over 5,000 years in India. Derived from the Sanskrit word “Yuj,” which means “to unite,” yoga aims to unite the body, mind, and spirit. The practice is not just physical, but also spiritual, encouraging mindfulness, self-awareness, and inner peace.

The foundational teachings of yoga are outlined in texts such as the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, which describe an eight-fold path that leads to self-realization. This path includes moral and ethical principles, physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), meditation, and ultimately, spiritual enlightenment.

While the practice has evolved over millennia into various styles and forms, all schools of yoga share the common goal of creating harmony within oneself and the world.

World Yoga Day: A Global Celebration

On December 11, 2014, the United Nations declared June 21 as International Yoga Day, an initiative led by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The proposal received widespread support from 177 countries, with the aim to raise global awareness about the benefits of yoga and encourage people to incorporate it into their daily lives. June 21 was chosen due to its significance as the summer solstice, a time symbolizing new beginnings and spiritual growth.

World Yoga Day is celebrated with numerous events around the globe, from mass yoga sessions to workshops and community gatherings. Whether practiced in parks, schools, or offices, the day serves as a powerful reminder that yoga is accessible to everyone, regardless of their experience or skill level.

The Benefits of Yoga

Yoga’s physical, mental, and emotional benefits are vast, which is why it continues to captivate so many around the world. Here’s how it enhances well-being:

1. Improved Physical Health

One of the most noticeable benefits of yoga is its impact on the body. The various yoga postures (asanas) help increase flexibility, strength, and balance. Regular practice can alleviate tension, improve posture, and enhance overall fitness. Popular poses like Downward Dog, Cobra, and Warrior target multiple muscle groups, fostering flexibility and improving joint health.
Additionally, yoga strengthens the cardiovascular system by promoting deep, rhythmic breathing (pranayama), which helps oxygenate the body and increases lung capacity.

2. Mental and Emotional Well-being

Yoga is equally beneficial for mental and emotional health. The practice encourages mindfulness, which enables individuals to become more aware of their thoughts and feelings. This awareness often leads to emotional regulation and improved mental clarity.
By incorporating breath control techniques, yoga reduces stress and anxiety. Deep breathing calms the nervous system, reducing levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which contributes to a greater sense of relaxation.
Yoga also promotes a positive mindset, helping individuals to practice acceptance, gratitude, and non-judgment. This leads to improved emotional health and resilience, which is particularly important in today’s stressful world.

3. Stress Reduction and Relaxation

Yoga is a powerful antidote to stress. The combination of physical movement, breathwork, and meditation activates the body’s relaxation response, reducing heart rate, blood pressure, and muscle tension. The meditative aspect of yoga teaches individuals to focus on the present moment, allowing them to let go of worries and experience a sense of peace and calm.
Practicing yoga regularly helps build a sense of inner peace, making it easier to handle life’s challenges with equanimity.

4. Improved Flexibility and Balance

One of the most immediate benefits of yoga is increased flexibility. Poses like Forward Fold, Tree Pose, and Warrior III stretch and strengthen muscles, gradually increasing the body’s range of motion. Regular practice can help prevent injuries, improve coordination, and promote better balance.
For older adults, yoga is particularly beneficial in maintaining balance and preventing falls, which are a common concern as we age.

5. Better Sleep Quality

Many people struggle with sleep issues, but yoga has been shown to improve the quality of sleep. Practices like gentle stretching and breathwork help relax the body and mind, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Research indicates that people who practice yoga regularly often experience better sleep, with reduced symptoms of insomnia.
By calming the nervous system and reducing stress, yoga offers a natural solution to sleep problems.

6. Spiritual Growth and Self-awareness

At its core, yoga is a spiritual practice. It encourages individuals to connect with their inner selves, fostering a sense of self-awareness and growth. Through meditation and mindfulness, practitioners can achieve deeper levels of consciousness, promoting emotional healing and personal development.
Yoga is about more than just physical fitness; it is a path to spiritual awakening, self-acceptance, and a profound connection with the world.

Yoga for All: A Universal Practice

Yoga is a universal practice that can be adapted to anyone, regardless of their age, fitness level, or experience. Whether one is a seasoned practitioner or a complete beginner, yoga provides a pathway to better health, greater peace, and spiritual well-being.
The beauty of yoga lies in its simplicity. It is not about achieving perfection or competing with others. It is about tuning into one’s own body, progressing at one’s own pace, and finding balance in daily life.

A Global Movement for Health and Well-being

As World Yoga Day is celebrated on June 21, it serves as a reminder of the ancient practice’s relevance in today’s modern world. Yoga is a transformative practice that goes beyond physical postures to offer profound benefits for mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Whether practiced for fitness, relaxation, or personal growth, yoga has the power to enhance lives and foster a sense of unity.
So, on this World Yoga Day, take a moment to roll out your mat, breathe deeply, and embrace the peace and balance that yoga brings. It’s a practice that can nourish the body, calm the mind, and open the heart—benefits we all need in today’s fast-paced world.

Festival of Chariots (Rath Yatra) 2025 by Iskcon Brisbane- 10th anniversary

Festival of Chariots, or Ratha Yatra, is a ‘celebration of love’ depicted by the pulling of chariots and melodious singing, dancing & colourful displays.
This year again, The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) Brisbane celebrated this festival’s 10th anniversary in Brisbane in heart of the city at King George Square, Brisbane City Hall.

The parade was accompanied by singing, dancing and a colourful display of traditional India. The original festival in Jagannatha Puri, India, has been celebrated for over 2000 years and is one of the world’s largest annual spiritual festivals. The parade ended in an arena of festivities, including various festive tents displaying culture, philosophy, spiritual items, cuisine and entertainment. This festival is open to everyone free of charge and Iskcon Brisbane serve thousands of guests pure vegetarian food (called Prasadam) free of charge with lots of love and affection.

Everyone experienced a cultural presentation of various art forms performed by the best local artists, relaxed and experienced peace and tranquility, interspersed with vibrant renditions of traditional and fusion dance, song, drama and philosophy, all in an open summer air theatre.

An oasis of fun and educational activities were at the Kids stall, kept them engaged and they walked away with a new found zest for spiritual engagement.
Every year, Iskcon Brisbane offer all guests an opportunity to engage in unique ways to bring you closer to spirituality through a creative offering. The real engagement is to offer something to the our higher consciousness with love and devotion. Hare Krishna

A Night to Remember: JD Media Corporation Delivers Another Stellar Performance with the Mohd Faiz & Senjuti Das Show in Brisbane

BRISBANE experienced a night of magic, music, and memories on Thursday, 24 April 2025, as the sensational Mohd Faiz and Senjuti Das lit up the stage in an electrifying live concert. From the very first note to the final encore, the audience was on its feet, singing, clapping, and dancing to the soulful performances of two of India’s rising musical stars. Behind the scenes and at the heart of this unforgettable experience was none other than JD Media Corporation, the powerhouse that has once again proven its exceptional ability to bring world-class entertainment to Brisbane.

The resounding success of the show is yet another jewel in the crown for JD Media Corporation, following in the footsteps of last year’s much-celebrated Abhijeet Show, which also captured the hearts of Brisbane’s Indian diaspora. As the proud organizer, JD Media Corporation left no stone unturned in curating a night of cultural excellence, immersive music, and unforgettable joy. This event continues to highlight JD Media’s unwavering commitment to promoting South Asian arts and culture in Australia and with hosting partner The Deo Family Charitable Foundation.

JD Media Corporation: A Cultural Beacon- headquartered in Brisbane, JD Media Corporation has been at the forefront of cultural engagement and entertainment within the Indian Australian community.

It is the proud parent company of three dynamic and influential media entities: Australian Indian Radio, Australian Indian Times, and Global Indian TV. Together, these platforms form a powerful network that not only informs but also connects, entertains, and uplifts the Indian diaspora across Australia and beyond.

• Australian Indian Radio, with its round-the-clock programming, continues to be a favourite among listeners for its music, talk shows, and community engagement.
• Australian Indian Times remains the go-to publication for news, updates, and community stories, delivering quality journalism tailored to Indian Australians.
• Global Indian TV, the latest addition to the JD Media family, extends the group’s multimedia influence by offering engaging visual content ranging from music and interviews to live coverage of community events.

For the Mohd Faiz and Senjuti Das show, all three media arms worked in synergy to promote, amplify, and cover the event, ensuring it reached every corner of the community. The buzz created by JD Media’s platforms in the weeks leading up to the concert was palpable, drawing an enthusiastic crowd that filled the venue and contributed to the vibrant atmosphere of the night.

Community Support and Strategic Partnerships- no event of this scale is possible without strong community and business partnerships. JD Media Corporation proudly acknowledges and expresses deep gratitude to Shafia Deen of NGU Real Estate, who came on board as the Presenting Partner. Shafia’s support exemplifies the spirit of collaboration that fuels community-driven events and helps elevate them to new heights.

The event was also made possible by a group of dedicated Media Partners, including JD Media’s own platforms—Australian Indian Radio, Australian Indian Times, and Global Indian TV—alongside Radio Brisvaani, a long-standing partner in promoting Indian culture and music. These partners played a pivotal role in keeping the community informed and excited in the weeks leading up to the show, and their continued support was instrumental in the event’s turnout and success.

Adding to the flavour of the evening was Tharavadu, the official Catering Partner, whose culinary expertise brought a taste of authentic Indian cuisine to the night, satisfying both the soul and the stomach.

JD Media Corporation also extends heartfelt thanks to its Event Partners: JD Electrical Australia, JD Property Group trading as REMAX Landmark, and JD Media itself. These entities, under the JD Group umbrella, continue to contribute resources, talent, and logistical excellence to every production. It is this integration and collaboration across business and media operations that set JD Media apart as a true force in Australia’s event and entertainment industry.

No great moment is complete without someone to capture it, and this unforgettable night was documented in style by our Photography Partner, Mayur Brahmbhatt. His lens has immortalized the energy, joy, and emotion of the evening, creating lasting memories for all who attended.
Thanks to all the directors Mrs Shanjeshni Deo, Mr Ravneel Deo, Mr Soneel Deo, Ms Vanita Kumar, Mr Imran Mohammed and Mr Ameil Nubh. Also the entire organising team and especially Neeraj Chand and Zahira.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Brisbane
JD Media Corporation is humbled and inspired by the incredible support shown by the Brisbane community. To every audience member who danced, sang, and celebrated with us: thank you.

Your enthusiasm and energy created an electric atmosphere that made this event truly special. It’s your support that motivates us to keep raising the bar and bringing more high-calibre artists and cultural experiences to Australia.

This event was not just a concert—it was a celebration of identity, unity, and the rich musical heritage we all cherish. From the moment the artists stepped on stage to the final bow, the connection between performers and audience was undeniable. It is this connection that JD Media Corporation seeks to nurture with every event, every broadcast, and every story shared through its platforms.

With another successful show in the books, JD Media Corporation reaffirms its commitment to being a leading force in promoting Indian arts and culture in Australia. Whether through radio, print, television, or live events, the mission remains clear: to bridge cultures, build community, and deliver quality entertainment that resonates with the soul.

Brisbane, you have once again shown your love and enthusiasm, and for that, we are deeply grateful. Stay tuned—JD Media has many more spectacular events and announcements on the horizon. Until then, thank you for making the Mohd Faiz & Senjuti Das show an unforgettable chapter in our shared cultural journey.

Our GOPIO Gold Coast Networking Evening

A Night to Remember at GOPIO Gold Coast Networking at The Aviary Bar.
The recent GOPIO Gold Coast Networking evening, held at the stylish and contemporary Aviary Bar, brought together a vibrant assembly of forward-thinking, like-minded individuals united by a shared passion for personal growth, professional development, and meaningful connections.

Attendees were eager to embrace fresh perspectives, refine their existing skillsets, and broaden their networks in an atmosphere that was both dynamic and intellectually stimulating.

An Inspiring Lineup of Guest Speakers
We were privileged to hear from an exceptional panel of powerhouse speakers whose insights captivated the audience:
Dr. Alfeen Varghese – Renowned Leadership Expert & Strategist,
Mr. Navdeep Pasricha – Visionary Entrepreneur & Mindset Coach,
Mr. Abhishek Singh – Accomplished Corporate Leader & Strategic Visionary.

Their thought-provoking talks ignited meaningful conversations and left a lasting impact on all who attended.

Vibrant Conversations & Lasting Connections
The evening was complemented by a delicious selection of canapés and refreshments that kept the energy and enthusiasm at a high. Conversations flowed effortlessly as new friendships blossomed and diverse viewpoints were shared.

Every participant had the opportunity to share their background and engage in deep, enriching exchanges of ideas, insights, and aspirations—an invaluable chance to build relationships that go beyond business.

The uplifting atmosphere and spirit of collaboration made this event not just a networking night, but a celebration of community, inspiration, and growth.
Thank you to the speakers, attendees and supporters for making the event a success.