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Sam Rao BLOG ARCHIVES
Sam Rao Blog Archives: 2006 2005 2003/2004 SEE BELOW
Sam Rao, Indian-American, Indian Amercan.Org Blog Archives
SLIDE SHOWS- PHOTO BLOGS JANUARY to JUNE 2006 Below
(Click Here for BLOG ARCHIVES JULY 2006 to Present )
JULY 30th-- EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW With MOHINDER KHANNA- Coordinator 14th Festival of India-Fremont MP 3 File
JULY 22-23rd: BAy Area Telugu Association - BATA CRICKET CUP 2006- Click for Images
JULY 9th Vibha 2006 Walk/Run Shoreline Park, Mountain View
JULY 4, 2006 4th July Parade @ 5 Corners Road., FREMONT
Click Here for more images
JUNE 4, 2006 ANTI- RESERVATION PROTEST (June 4)
Sunnyvale, CA
May 29, 2006 Asian-Indian-American day2006 (May 27)
Click for more Images
MAY 20, 2006 ICICI QUIZ 2006
Click for more Images
MA Y 7, 2006 ILP Walk Run 2006
Click for more Images
!BLOG ARCHIVES
May 27 2006 Asian Indian-American Day 2006 GREAT SUCCESS!! Cultural; Music; Demonstration; Info tables
Held at the Milpitas Public Library -a celebration of Heritage of India and contribution to social fabric of USA and California.
 Click for more Images Hi Res Photos available - Frree to Individual and Non Profit use |
GREAT SUCCESS!!
Cultural; Music; Demonstration; Info tables Asian Indian-American Day 2006 Milpitas Public Library -a celebration of Heritage of India and contribution to social fabric of USA and California. May 27 2006 Sam Rao Photo CONTACT |
April 15, 2006: Hon. Dalai Lama visits Muslim Leaders in San FranciscoOn invitation by several Muslim Scholars and Islamic Centers, the Hon. Dalai Lama in San Francisco urged religious leaders Saturday to reach out to Muslims, saying Islam is a compassionate faith that has been unfairly maligned because of a few extremists.
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The Dalai Lama also told conference attendees that religious traditions must work harder to live together in peace, citing religious violence in Northern Ireland, Pakistan and Iraq. Acc to reports, the conference, attended by 500 people, was formed to present the 'True face of Islam'- as a Compassionate religion of Peace and Dalai Lama and was requested to use his stature in USA and the World to solidify the message in Islam |
Comment: It is indeed refreshing to see more an dmore moderate and scholars of Islam step up and engage the community and build bridges and also SPEAK OUT aginst the Islamic Jihadists and Terrorists in USA
Only in countries like India - where there is a flourishing DEMOCRACY and the ancient Culture and Heritage of the land- you would see Muslims (Indian) NOT ENGAGED in Islami Jihadi fundamentalsim for the most part.
In fact with 140 million Indian Muslims out of a population of 1 billion Total in India , the terror incidents are a mere blip and relegated to Kashmir and a few spots where such small number of terrorists are again responsible for inciting violence.
Most Muslims in India esp in South, East , West India are integrated into the community at large- whil freely practicing their personal religion.
Last Word: Guess one needs to be a member of Humanity First, a National next (ie American or Indian or Canadian) AND THEN profess Religion rather than represent as:
a Muslim first AND THEN a Nataional and a member of Humanity next. ....... this leads to confusion and Exploitation.......
So it would be great to hear about an American-Musim or Indian-Muslim etc rather than a Muslim from America or Muslim from India- owing alliegiance to Islam over and above everything else -- which has been the reason for militant Jihadis from Saudi Arabia and Syria etc joining OBL's brigade! !BLOG ARCHIVES
Apr11: The Proof is in the Pudding! : The Great Immigration Debate
As millions across the country protested, people and politicians have sat up and taken note. This is another turn in history for America similar to the Civil Rights movements 1960's and protests of the 1970's ( anti war)
The only thing is that thee Protests have been NON VIOLENT.
Also the protests span all racial lines of minoroties and immigrants in solidarity! Asians, Africans, Europeans (Yes! Irish folks form a sizeable number of undoumaneted in USA)
No doubt the Politicans and Social Scientists have taken note of the POWER of MASSES and Organized participation in Civil (dis)Obedience.
Also, the slogans like "Protest today, Vote Tomorrow." should ring a Bell. with politicans and Social Scientists alike.
With a clear message of Waving the American Flag ( not Mexican or others)- this time there was very little ammunition for the Selfish, Racist people to point fingers against the hardworing protestors saying they carried only Mexican flags etc.
There is no way 11 million people (estimated) can be mass deported. While Border security is important and needs to be addressed, in tandem Foreign policy changes and Business practices of strengtheing Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras and other neiighbors will help a long long way.
Similar to the European Union- where the borders are open but all need to be registered and work permits are granted from across countries- that model will help add a new dimension to build prosperity and prevent Illegal immigration out of sheer economic neccessity.
Also the forthright acknowledgement of latent Racism still prevelant in America by Leaders & Politicians, AND also allying the fears of the current 'Majority population' of the "Browning of America" would be very helpful.
A closure to these opinions and fears in the publics eye is important rather than whipping up such sentiments as done by GoP (Republicans) and some Democrats in the past. !BLOG ARCHIVES
Apr 10: The Great Immigration Debate:
Earlier there were 500,000 people protesting the stringent Immigrationa laws proposed by GOP politicians.
Yesterday there were 500,000 more in Dallas with thousands alos in cities across the country.
NOTE: In all this millions of illegals immigrants- hardworking and underpaid- are NOT ABLE to Voice their protests for the fear or repraisals, lack of job security etc.
The cowardly people who tout Immigration reform including penalties for humanitarian and charitable aid to all humans- many profess to be Christians- That cant be fuarther than the truth.
Also most of these same hate filled (not love for humanity) folks are the SAME who oppose LEGAL immigration as well.
These are the same people who oppose immigrating High Tech and Highly qualified workers (H-1) - all which would put rest to their simplistic arguements of economic drain etc- currently being used.
There is a LOT more to a nation country then mere materialistic wealth and ability to get by with a modicum of comforts as compared to rest of the world and then denying the same comforts/hope to disadvantaged people.
Even agreeing with those who advocate no handouts at all - all of the above can easily fit into a plan of transition to Job workforce via training, paying a decent wage etc. - extended "to teach a person to fish rather than gifting them fish to eat".
How does a Nation/Countyr/Culture define itself in history??
By Being Humane and respecting Human beings Belonging to the World and extending that mindest to the more disadvantaged and unfortunate amongst itself !BLOG ARCHIVES
Apr 2, 2006: FREMONT HINDU TEMPLE
KUMBHAABHISHEKAM- INstallation of Dieties/Idols
. EXCLUSIVE SLIDE SHOW
 Hi Res Photos available- Free to Individual and Non Profit use Contact Sam Rao CONTACT |
 Fremont Hindu Temple New Dieties installed Apr 2, 2006 Sam Rao Photo |
The ceremony was conducted with proper Vedic Rituals and installed in the annex to Fremont prayer hall. ( So finally after 11 years of Temple established- the DDietes are ioinstalled!)
Moorthies of Dieties
Ram Laxman Sita Hanuman; Padmavati (Lakshmi); Balaji Venkateswara; Shiva Linga
have been installed. Also dieties of Navagraha and Nandi are installed.
The whole ceremony was presided by Pandit Srinivasan of Fremont Temple and Pandit Gajanana Joshi (previous priest of Sunnyvale Temple and now who runs Sanatan Dharma Kendra also in Sunnyvale ( 987 KIFER ROAD)
The Kumbhabhisheka,m was also assisted by Pandit Kishore Shastri of Himachal Pradesh and previously of Livermore and Pandit Venkatasastry of Tirupati. Visiting Swami ArjunPuri Maharaj of Hardwar also presided.
About a dozen volunteers of the Goshti group did a very good job of Vedic Mantras.
The Goshti group is of al IT professionals who have learnt/learning the sacred Hymns.
MELBOURNE XVIII COMMONWEALTH GAMES
SEE COMPLETE LIST OF WINNERS (India)
March 30: Ingenious FM Radio station in Bihar (North India) costs $1 and runs with Public Demand
In an amazing story a North Bihari illiterate guy- who set up a FM radio station in electronics repair shop for the cost of $1 (ONE)!!
Raghav FM Mansoorpur, a village FM radio station in India run by Raghav Mahato and Raghav's childhood friend Sambhu -the radio jockey( -:-0 !!)
Yes its true, and the article is from BBC! Read the story below.
Unfortunately, last week the Government of India and State Policehas siezed his equipement as he was operating without a licence.
Many believe that he should have been given a temporary licence and asked to transit/apply for one!
This is the type of help we hope the Latte NGO's ( meaning the guys who sip expensive Coffee drinks while langusishing for their poor bretheren and comrades back home in the "Old country") step up to.
Donations of Digital Computerand supplies are Easy and Ok esp. for Urban dwellers and maybe relevant 5-10 years into the future. However, current day to day living, sanitation, clean water AND cases like above- where poor WOMEN and MEN were listening to Community public Broadcasts of the RAGHAV FM Radio Station are more important
( PS This is still Technological- so fits in with the "Technology Giving!")
About the Radio Station, earlier, when he realized that he needed an licence to operate, and even When he shut it down- people cameup and demanded that he keep the Radio Station running.
More Power to such ngenuity, information to people and such radio stations!!
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/4735642.stm
March 25: Bush, GOP Republicans, Democrats, AMERICA and Immigration
What a dilemma! A Political Wedge issue in MARCH 2006- convieniently -just in time for the Primary special local electons in June and Nov 2006 and "debat" for the next Presidential campaigns of 2008!
AWhile his contentious issue wont go away- the attck of using a wedge issue of everyday Americns and teh illegals and Undocumented workers is turing out be be a cynical manipulation of vote banks and viseral policies.
The fundamental question America has to face are:
a) Who is an immigrant? How far has America drifted from the core values and constitutional ideals of the country?
b) When will America address and face up to the driving Euro Centric views and the fear of "Browning of America" ehich drives middle America and encouraged by all adminstrations. period.
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This ongoing debate- with each side soon to be parading the toekn "Legal Immigrantd" on their side of the aisle will go on- as polarizing and strange political bedfellows arise eg Religious institutions like Catholics and Religion institutions catering to minoroties vs Conservative Religious orders like Baptists etc; AND The US Chambers of Commerce and Labor Unions vs On the Floor workers etc (Left)- 500,000 people in PRO IMMIGRATION Rally in Loa Angeles- This is a police estimate- which are normally undercounts! |
Mar 24: XVIII COMMONWEALTH GAMES- Melbourne was awatershed for India and its Athletes.
CONGRATS INDIA on Wonderful showing at the Games
Although a developing country with a teeming population over 1 Billion people- the Atheltici showing of India always left something to be desired.
Bu for Cricket, Hockey and occassional flashes of individual brilliance like i Tennis;Snooker;; Billiards, Badminton etc-- there was hardly any noteworthy mentio in Team sports other than Cricket and Field Hockey.
Bow suddenly MEdals Galore at the CommonWealth Games- where the competition is superior to Asian Games- where India did OK showing occassionally.
With Weightlifting, Shooting well represented in the Medal Tallyu- loks like India will be on the podium for at least 25 GOLDS and a dozen Silver and Bronze medals!!
( of course with steroid testing required- for the most part the athelets seem honest!
Amazing that, in Cricket now India fields THREE PACE/FAST Bowlers compared to a few tyears ago when Spinners were chosen for lack of available Pcae/Fast bowlers!
OLYMPICS COMING UP 2008!! SEE COMPLETE LIST OF WINNERS
Udavum Karangal Galaata IDOL CONTEST- APRIL 15 Foothill College-SmithWick Theater Ganesh at (408)-868-4270, |
HOLI RANG PANCHAMI ASHA Stanford HOLI 2006 25th March, 2006 10 AM to 2 PM Sandhill Field, Stanford Univ HOLI RANG PANCHAMI |
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Natraj School of Dance Odissi Dance Show Mahishasura Mardini Sat Apr 9, 3 PM Cal State East Bay-Hayward 510-429-8422 |
The XVIII Commonwealth Games 2006in Melbourne Australia- started out with a bang for India- with the FIRST Gold Medal bagged by Weightlifter KUNJARANI DEVI in the 48 kilo class Womens weightlifting. See Images BELOW
Here are some images and more of the Indian athletes contingent's participation.
   India's 48 kg Weightlifter Kunjarani Devi Nameirakpam shows off her gold medal as bronze medalist Erika Yamasaki (L) of Australia and silver medalist Marilou Dozois-Prevost (R) of Canada |
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  Also won SILVER By 56 Kg Vicky Bhatta, GOLD by Air Rifle 10m India Team and SILVER by Pistol 50 India Pair Mar 17, 2006 |
Mar 12, 2006: CUPERTINO , CA UNITY PARADE
The city of Cupertino, Ca in SF bay area- also the home of Apple Computer- held its 4th annual Unity Parade.
 Hi Res Photos available- Free to Individual and Non Profit use Contact Sam Rao CONTACT |
Here are some images from the parade- and more of the Indian-American contingent's participation.
Mar 9, 2006- About American Idol- Kinda interesting Social Commentary abt USA
The whole media hyped event has become a must see for the weekly family TV viewing - and spans several age demographics.
Recenty it even surpassed the Winetr Olympics sd the Oscars Academy Awards!!
The Making of the Star in Amercan Idol has also spawned similar programs acorss the Globe- so "She Bang" William Hung "She Bang" need not audition only in Calfironia but can actually go to Hong Kong or India or U.K. or Eastern Europe! i.e. If they allow him or singers with "talent" like him)!!
Methinks the American idol 2006 is interesting for the some of the folks who made it to "the last12" and for Simon Cowell's candid and ONLY Real, Spot-On Evaluations!
In all this we even have 40 Million voters via SMS and internet- which kinda makes it hard for the contestnats from Arkansas and South Carolina folks to sustain momentum.
and also there seems to be some sort of another "Revenge of the Nerds" situation going on in American Idol!- this time its the Nerdy Kid -KEVIN COVAIS
His situation is similar to Scott Saviol (American Idol 2005)- whose offbeat and Off key singing-kept on coming week after week- even after his domestic distrurbance arrests were revealed along with his not so god singing!
Later it was found that an organized group of Web Surfers were coordinating voting online to ensure Scott Saviol makes it to top -- Anyway this was detected and I believe soon Scott went off into history but managed to reach the top 10, I believe.
Lets see how far this kid KEVIN COVAIS reaches- for sure although "likeable" and "Huggable " etc acc to Judge Paula Abdul- and he can sing nettr than many others- he still doesnot stand a chance to become THE AMERICAN IDOL!!. He often looks surprised that he made it this far
For American Idol 2006- there is some Good talent all around for sure-
WATCH FOR- Female- 16 yr old Paris Bennet(Talented & Connected- mom, grandmom are established singers- but is too young); 28 yr old Mandissa (Great Voice -Hardluck Story); 19 yr ol' Kelie Pickleeeeeeeeeee ((Good voice, Blonde w/ Hardluck story- no formal training)
WATCH for Male- Ace Young (OK); Chris Daugherty (Good, Experienced) and Elliot Yamin (seems connected) , Taylor Hicks(seems connected)
Though among all these the genuine, sincere ones- not neccessarily who may win- seem to be 16 yr old Paris Bennet ( who actually cried when another guy was kicked out); Kellie Pickle and Bucky Coveington both of North Carolina..........or maybe its their strong Southern ( Hick) accent? and genuine warmth which comes through!
Mar 8, 2006- International Women's Day- Salute to Women & Their Contributions
Today is the International Womens Day. Events held around the globe to Salute to Women ad their Contributions.
Most ancient civilizations were predominatly matriarchial societies, this included running the household; controlling the "purse strings" and raising the kids etc.
President George Bush Jr Visits INDIA and Hyderabad Andhra Pradesh.
(Right) Prez Bush holding a Large Canteloupe in AP Agro University with women from Self Help Group (Below)- With a Locally made, Local Fiber GALLON HAT ( Below Right) Prez Bush and Prime Minister ManMohan Singh at the meeting |
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Today is the International Womens Day. Events held around the globe to Salute to Women ad their Contributions.
Most ancient civilizations were predominatly matriarchial societies, this included running the household; controlling the "purse strings" and raising the kids etc.
Mar 5,2006- the 78th ACADEMY AWARDS- OSCAR AWARDS
Performance by an actor in a leading role: Philip Seymour Hoffman in “Capote� (UA/Sony Pictures Classics)
Performance by an actor in a supporting role :George Clooney in “Syriana� (Warner Bros.)
Performance by an actress in a leading role: Reese Witherspoon in “Walk the Line� (20th Century Fox)
Performance by an actress in a supporting role:Rachel Weisz in “The Constant Gardener� (Focus Features)
Best animated feature film of the year:“Wallace & Gromit in the Curse of the Were-Rabbit� (DreamWorks Animation SKG) Nick Park and Steve BoxAchievement in art direction :“Memoirs of a Geisha� (Sony Pictures Releasing) Art Direction: John Myhre; Set Decoration: Gretchen Rau
“Pride & Prejudice� Was shut out
Achievement in cinematography : “Memoirs of a Geisha� (Sony Pictures Releasing)Dion Beebe
Achievement in costume design: Memoirs of a Geisha� (Sony Pictures Releasing) Colleen Atwood
Achievement in directing “Brokeback Mountain� (Focus Features) Ang Lee
Best documentary feature: “March of the Penguins� (Warner Independent Pictures) A Bonne Pioche Production Luc Jacquet and Yves DarondeauBest documentary short subject : “A Note of Triumph: The Golden Age of Norman Corwin� A NomaFilms Production Corinne Marrinan and Eric Simonson
Achievement in film editing: “Crash� (Lions Gate) Hughes Winborne
Best foreign language film of the year: “Tsotsi� A Moviworld Production South Africa <>Achievement in makeup: “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe� (Buena Vista) Howard Berger and Tami Lane
Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original score): “Brokeback Mountain� (Focus Features) Gustavo Santaolalla
Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original song): “It’s Hard Out Here for a Pimp� from“Hustle & Flow� (Paramount Classics, MTV Films and New Deal Entertainment);Music and Lyric by Jordan Houston, Cedric Coleman and Paul Beauregard
Best motion picture of the year:“Crash� (Lions Gate); A Bob Yari/DEJ/Blackfriar’s Bridge/ Harris Company /ApolloProscreen GmbH & Co./Bull’s Eye Entertainment Production Paul Haggis and Cathy Schulman, Producers
Best animated short film:“The Moon and the Son: An Imagined Conversation� A John Canemaker Production John Canemaker and Peggy Stern
Best live action short film “Six Shooter� (Sundance Film Channel); A Missing in Action Films and Funny Farm Films Production Martin McDonagh
Achievement in sound editing: “King Kong� (Universal) Mike Hopkins and Ethan Van der Ryn
Achievement in sound mixing: “King Kong� (Universal) Christopher Boyes, Michael Semanick, Michael Hedges and Hammond Peek
Achievement in visual effects :“King Kong� (Universal) Joe Letteri, Brian Van’t Hul, Christian Rivers and Richard Taylor
Adapted screenplay: “Brokeback Mountain� (Focus Features); Screenplay by Larry McMurtry & Diana Ossana Original screenplay “Crash� (Lions Gate); Screenplay by Paul Haggis & Bobby Moresco; Story by Paul Haggis
BLOG ARCHIVES
March 5, '06 Prez. Bush PLAYS CRICKEt DIPLOMACY in Pakistan & India
While on the trip to Pakistan- Prez Bush made his points very clear about wanting Pakistan and the Islamic dictatorship to shape up. He didnot promise any Nuclear deals as requested by Gen Musharraf and also prodded them on getting democracy on the front burner so to speak. While this diplomatic dressing dwon was going down- many who have kep onsisting Pakistan has a Free Press and also the right to assemble and demonstrate etc- got a rude shock when key opposition leader and Cricket legend Imran Khan was placed under house arrest just before joining Anti-Bush protests....
 Pres Bush attempts a Big Hit in CRICKET DIPLOMACY in Pakistan |
This CRICKET DILEMMA & DIPLOMACY was underscored when Bush undertook some adventurous Strokes in attempting to play cricket. I guess, a new Contemporary, modern twist to the Nixon & Kissinger PING-PONG Diplomacy now known CRICKET DIPLOMACY!! (SR) |
In no uncertain terms Pres. Bush said again: ( NY Times):
"I explained that Pakistan and India are different countries with different needs and different histories," Mr. Bush said at a joint outdoor news conference with Mr. Musharraf on the grounds of the presidential palace, Aiwan-e-Sadr. "So as we proceed forward, our strategy will take in effect those well-known differences." ~ at the outdoor joinmt Official press conference with Prez Gen Musharraf next to him at the Pakiatsni Pres Palace.
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/05/international/asia/05prexy.html
President George Bush Jr Visits INDIA and Hyderabad Andhra Pradesh.
(Right) With a Locally made, Local Fiber GALLON HAT with women from Self Help Group (Below)-Prez Bush holding a Large Canteloupe in AP Agro University ( Below Right) Prez Bush and Prime Minister ManMohan Singh at the meeting |
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After concluding an upbeat trip to India with Condi Rice and severl trade negotiators etc in tow, Prez Bush inked the Nuke Technology deal with PM ManMohan singh.
Te deal basically inks the long awaited decision of formally defining a long term strategic partner role for India with USa- one whih USA has tacitally and literally acknowledged is ithe future of the World- esp as the only superpower ie USa sees it.
With USA agreeing to supply Nuclear technology permanently to India in return for access to 65% of nuclear facilities deemed by India as Civilian ( rest are termed "strategic')- India has been let into the elite 6-nation Nuclear club.
The 35% facilities deemed strategic by India are clearly military and weaponry oriented.
The press statement by El Baredi of IAEA- welcoming India's position and statements-- is once again an acknowledgement of India's obvious indegeious nuclear technology prowess both civilian and Military.
It was funny that although sanctions were imposed on India, Pakistan for blasting the nuclear bomb test - neither were "acknowleged" as having the technology or the bomb.
In a telling statement, the next day during Presidents Bush's visit to Pakistan- Bush openly said- in a blunt rejection of Pakistan's demand for a civilian nuclear deal on the lines he clinched with India, US President George W Bush on Saturday said the two countries had different needs and different histories. ... With Musharraf standing by his side, Bush stated in unambiguous terms that "Pakistan and India are different countries with different needs and different histories...........
in a clear reference to the Pakistan military, their secret service ISI involvement with A.Q. Khan to be a nuclear flea market to "rogue' counties and teror organizations!
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/1438003.cms TIMES OF INDIA
Mar 3 2006- George Bush Jr in Hyderabad Andhra Pradesh
Waxes eloquent about Outsourcing ie in Total favor of outsourcing.
One thing about Prez Bush- he is a honest man- and holds his views- no matter how wrong they may be.
RE: ELECTION:
In some ways Bush Jr is termed out and doesnt care for relection- so all this foreign junets will help in defining the positions of next tier Republicans steping up to the Presidents job.
Will be interesting hos these new candidates play this Outsoucrcing, India's Nuke technology and of course Immigration reform etc
I think these are Pres Bush's simple, honest, direct qualities got him elected in the first place- ie at a time when the Democrats were too divided ( and still are) with every Democrat Candidate offerng his/her own policy and opinion.
While Americans traditionally want it plain and simple and Strong leader- even with his faults. ( Now someone might say Dumb and Strong etc but then thats their words not mine) :-0
Mar 02, 2006_ President George Bush Jr. Visits India
A historic visit of sorts and a first for Prez George Bush
President George Bush vists India MArch 1-2-3 and then Pakistan. This is his first vist to India- which is surprising in itself- considering that India is the ONLY STABLE Democracy in the South Asian region!!!
So Finally the Worlds Largest Democracy INDIA and World Oldest Democracy USA seem to have sealed their eo-Strategic interests
This is great news for the India-American Community and actually rest of the World as well
DETAILS- Click HERE- Joint Statement of Pres Bush and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh ( See good News on Nuke Deal below)
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very likely heavily incfulenced by Corporate America and Oil/Energy concerns as well as the MIC (Military Industrial Complex)
Reminder- INDIA is near neighbor to Communist CHINA; Islamic dictator PAKISTAN; Islamic Democracy/Unstable BANGLADESH; Monarchy NEPAL; Unstable Democracy SRILANKA; Monarchy BHUTAN adnd not too far away from Isamic IRAN; Unstable Islamic Demcocracy AFGHANISTAN; Unstable Islamic Democracy IRAQ...etc
GOOD NEWS:
MARCH 2- Pres Bush and Prime Minister ManMohan Singh seal the Nuclear Deal between India and USA. DETAILS HERE
Anyway- lots of positives to go around including the Sealing of the Deal for Nuke Technology offered to India by the USA- a grudging " Formal Acceptance" into the elitist 6 nation nuclear powers Club.
As is well known there are several other nations who have already are in possesion of Nuclear technology and possibly the horrnedous bomb ie Pakistan; Israel; S. Africa and possibly Brazil (Yes!). Of course with Pakistan and their Flea market nuclear bomb- N.Korea, Iran and Saudi/Libya couldn't be too far behind.
LAST WORD: This is great news for the Indian-American Community- who have had a significant impact on shaping of the last two decades of growth of the USA.
Not just theHigh Tech industry but the Medical industry; trade and business including the unubiqutous HOTEL & MOTEL Indyustry and also the smaller Mom & pop type operations of 7-11, Dunkin Donuts etc!!!
In all this CIVILAN Nuke Use is being put forth- Thats a Good Concept. Hopefully thats ALL there is to the dangerous Nuclear technology- Peace and Energy requirements with Safeguards against Accidents, Pollution etc
Feb 27, 2006: Winter Olympics draw to a Close- Not Without Controversy & More than meets the Eye!!: The recently concluded Winter Olympics games in Turin, Italy was well organized and enjoyed by many spectators and had its share of The Good; the Bad and the Ugly. (One mildly Ugly & sad and Funny at same time- see at end of Feb 27 posting for the Lindsey Jacobellis saga)
The Good Some of the best moment included(as usual) the Nation Atheletes Walk in and The Closing Ceremonies and the handover to the next Winter Olympics to be held in Vancouver, Canada.
Some of the Shining Olympics moment were:
- Stories of Triumphs and Trys & Attempts by athletes from nations who dont really see much snow in winter all was in spirit of the Olympics.
- American Olympian Joey Cheek who after winning the Olympic Gold medal in 500 m Speedskate donates his bonus money $40,000 to the Refugee Children of Sudan (Dafur)- joing the Charity of a previous Norwegian Champ. Thank you for inspring Leadership and display of Humanity.
-the Two time medalist from Germany who after finally winning the Gold medal in Cross Country- was welcomed by her 3 year old daughter for a hug at the finish line. Seemed unscripted - at least by the child and for a retiring athlete & mother in her 30's this was a great achievement and the another great story from the 2006 Winter Olympics.
The Bad: Among the many stories and saga of the Olympics- which is par for the course- the very strict drug testing seems to have really affected performance of the cheating atheletes.
When the Austrian team was busted in a mid night raid- several athletes tried to escape!! Two athletes atually left the Olympics without permisson and were banned. Remembder The Italian and Greek Atheletes??
NOTE: All this exposure was ONLY AFTER a Banned Sports Doctor was seen visiting the Austrian team and NOT BECAUSE OF GETTING CAUGHT Via DOPE TESTS!!!
This tells you with millions of Dollars at stake- MASKING oF DOPING Agents is going on in full swing! Although Athletes and Commissions have become increasingingly cautious and even frowning upon overt use of the drugs (unlike in the past)
Speculation- Does the poor showing of the USA Winter Athletes reflect the tighter durg screening- especially the lack of the Explosive boost needed for the difference between Gold-Silver-Bronze and rest of the field.??
Could this be the reason for increased breakdown of athletes bodies- where previously steroids were used to tone up and build muscle etc- and can be used unymore??
The Ugly: Bad Attitudes cannot be blamed entirely on drugs!
When high profile athletes like USA's Chad Hedrick and Shani Davis openly feud in the media and Hedrik accuses the other of not being a Team member- criticism which was deserved by the way- and when Italian and Polish atheletes indulge in fistfights (against the spirit of the game)... etc ... one can see that drugs can't be entirely blamed for violating the spirit of the games in attitude and action
Although, one must remember that Steroids do cause flare ups in temper and pro sleep habits etc in atheletes and these are often compunded when these drugs are temporarily suspended.
LAST WORD: Mildly Ugly- Sad & Funny at same time:
The saga of Lindsey Jacobelllis- USa Women's Snowboard Cross
In the same Ugly category- more of arrogance and funny at the same time- USA's Women's Snowboard Cross athlete Lindsey Jacobellis- was doing great and leading by a very large lead.
So She decides to showoff and in the final jump about 20 feet from the GOLD MEDAL Finish line- she jumps and Grabs her Snow board in an Showoff/ Hot dog style to impres the crowd....and spills out and crashes about 10 feet from the Gold Medal Finish line...........and loses to the next athelete who was at least 40 feet behind her.
Sorry- Lindsey will be eating "Humble Pie" and "Humble Crow" rst of her life.
We feel sad for her- her training - her dedication and hope she uses this experience to send message of being humble while continuing her quest for NEW SOARING HEIGHTS ( Successfuly I mean :-0 )
Feb 22, 2006: Well What do you expect?? re: Protest on Prophet Muhammed. ....When you know there is a standing threat of brianwashed Jihadis and young impressionalble suicide bombers from the mostly Wahabbi faction waiting around...Was it wise to tempt fate and publish and re-publish the cartoons lampooning Prophet Muhammed.???
NOBODY supports Violence and protests should have been peaceful and authorities hsould have acted swiftly and should have used better judgement to prevent what was very easily forseeable!
Better sense should have prevailed - Better judgement!
Its like yelling "Fire" in a crowded theater- and for every instigation- there is a price to pay as its against the law.. so for greater good and to prevent loss of innocent lives and massive destruction of property etc- preventive and containment steps should have been taken.
Freedom of expression is absolutely important but I wonder if many of those expounding on the Freedom of Expression and Speech stood by the Maplethorpe exhibts- which showed icons of Chritisnity in poor light.
Ditto the Hindu "activists" currently against the Islamic protestors but forget to hark back on their own protests (albeit NOT Violent) very recently as well.
With Freedom comes Responsibility- and this seems to be sorely missing (SR)
Now what if some "inspired artist" out to make a quick buck and quick claim to fame- starts parodying Jesus Christ and similar icons.???
Will Freedom of Expression stance still be valid - especially for those who seem to have newly discovered it?
Not too long ago and periodically- Hindu Dieties and icons have been vilified as well. European based and UK based as well as American based companies had depicetd Hindu dieties on Shoes/Slip ons- considered a great insult; also on Toilet seat covers and recently even showed Goddess Durga holding Whiskey bottles.!
This was protested vehmently - especially within the Hindu community all over the world including America.
Two things- no of the civilixed world came in support of the insulted Hindus ANd this next statement also goes out to thye protesting Hindus as well.
All the firerce critics of the current protestors - whats good for the Goose is Good for the Gander SO IN FAIRNESS ONE HAS TO STAND UP AND BE CONSISTENT. BE CRITICAL - nonviolent and Stand against desacration of all items which would instigate and could lead to Social unrest. ( Though Nonviolence protests are the only way to go!)
LAST WORD: In all this will be drowned the voice of Moderate, Peaceful Muslims- and there are many- ( just watch India- no violent protest of significance there inspite of 140 million muslims out of 1 Billion population!)
My be that's what was aimed for in this lates saga of Geo politics- another case in point is the secretarian politics and civil war is obviously being incited between the Shia and Sunni Factions of Muslims via Iraq and the bombing of the Islamic (Shia) shrine.)
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Jan 28, 2006: HAPPY YEAR OF THE DOG TO YOU!
The Lunar New Year is ushered in on January 29, 2006. This is the Year of the Dog.This is also th time of for the Hindu Festivals of Sankranthi and Lohri (North India) and pongal (South India)
But the New Year starts on a Mixed note-
- Hamas scores a landslide victory in palestine in a Democractically held ELections AND declared Clean by UN and international Observors.
The quandry esp. to democratic interested parties including USA and EU is that: If you believe in Democracy as a Will of People- then Hamas has to be accepted- esp as the rivals Fatah were backed to the hildt by US, EU and Israel (yes!)
Here is where pronouncements of "importing Democracy" will haunt the Neo-Cons a nd mouth pieces like Condi Rice, Prez Bush etc- as the World will examine the Soul behind the Words!.
While there is no love for Terrorist tactics of Haams or Violence filled rhetoric- how far does the import of Democracy also seep into Imposing external Will on the people who have spoken??
Remember Chile's Allende and more recently Venenzuela's Hugo Chavez etc?? and so on
LAST WORD: Year of Dog- Celebrated in China/ Chinese Cuisine- but Will they Give up the Cruel practice of Culling Dogs for food- often alive when skinned??
JAN 26, 2006: LIST OF PADMA VIBHUSHAN; PADMA BHUSHAN; PADMA SHRI Awardes on Jan 26, 2006-by India's Prez Abdul Kalam
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On the Republic Day 2006 in New Delhi- as tradition goes - the President of India Dr Abdul Kalam awarded the Country’s highest Honors to people in all fields. ( Some notables highlighted- by o means complete) Bharat Ratna: No one Selected Padma Vibhushan Actor Adoor Gopalakrishnan, Art, Kerala; C.R. Krishnaswamy Rao, Civil Service, Tamil Nadu; Architect Charles Correa, Science and Engineering, Maharashtra; Author/Writer Mahashweta Devi, Literature and Education, West Bengal; Activist Social Worker Nirmala Deshpande, Social Work, Delhi; Green Revolution Norman E. Borlaug, Science and Engineering, Mexico; Obaid Siddiqui, Science and Engineering, Karnataka; Cardiologist Prakash Narain Tandon, Medicine, Delhi and Justice V.N. Khare, Public Affairs, Uttar Pradesh. |
| Padma Bhushan Actor A.K. Hangal, Art, Maharashtra; Musician Ustad Abdul Halim Jaffer Khan, Art, Maharashtra; Deepak Parekh, Trade and Industry, Maharashtra; Devaki Jain, Social Work, Karnataka; Dinesh Nandini Dalmia, Literature and Education, Delhi; Dusan Zbavitel, Literature and Education, Czechoslovakia; Ganga Prasad Birla, Social Work, West Bengal; Classical Music Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan, Art, Maharashtra; Gregory Maximovich Bongard-Levin, Literature and Education, Russia; Gunter Kruger (Posthumous), Trade and Industry, Maharashtra; Shri Hira Lall Sibal, Public Affairs, Chandigarh; Jaiveer Agarwal, Medicine, Tamil Nadu; Air Commodore (Ret’d) Jasjit Singh, Defence Services, Haryana; K.G. Subramanyam, Art, West Bengal; Kamleshwar Prasad Saxena, Literature and Education, Delhi; Kewal Kishan Talwar, Medicine, Chandigarh; Telugu Movie star Konidala Chiranjeevi, Art, Andhra Pradesh; K.P.P. Nambiar, Science and Engineering, Karnataka; Lokesh Chandra, Literature and Education, Delhi; Madhav Gadgil, Science and Engineering, Maharashtra; M.V. Pylee, Literature and Education, Kerala; N.S. Ramaswamy, Social Work, Karnataka; IT Infosys Nandan M. Nilekani, Science and Engineering, Karnataka; P. Leela (Posthumous), Art, Tamil Nadu; P.P. Rao, Public Affairs, Uttar Pradesh; P.S. Appu, Civil Service, Karnataka; Ramakanta Rath, Literature and Education, Orissa; S. Ramadorai, Trade and Industry, Maharashtra; Ustad Sabri Khan, Art, Delhi; Stage Actor Sai Paranjpye, Art, Maharashtra; Shanno Khurana, Art, Delhi; Attorney Shashi Bhushan, Public Affairs, Delhi; Tarun Das, Trade and Industry, Haryana; Cardiologis & Magasaysay wawardee V. Shanta, Medicine, Tamil Nadu; Vijay Shankar Vyas, Literature and Education, Rajasthan and Baloonist Vijaypat Singhania, Sports, Maharashtra |
| Padma Shri: Qatar Prince Sheikh Abdul Rahman Bin Abdullah Al-Mahmoud, Public Affairs, Qatar; Ajeet Cour, Literature and Education, Delhi; Anil Prakash Joshi, Social Work, Uttaranchal; Aribam Shyam Sharma, Art, Manipur; Shotputter Bahadur Singh, Sports, Punjab; Bhuvaraghan Palaniappan, Medicine, Tamil Nadu; Billy Arjan Singh, Wildlife Conservation, Uttar Pradesh; Bonbehari Vishnu Nimbkar, Science and Engineering, Maharashtra; Devappagowda Chinnaiah, Medicine, Karnataka; Fatma Rafiq Zakaria, Literature and Education, Maharashtra; Gayatri Sankaran, Art, Tamil Nadu; Ghanashyam Mishra, Medicine, Orissa; Hakim Syed Zillur Rehman, Medicine, Uttar Pradesh; Harbhajan Singh Rissam, Medicine, Delhi; Swami Hari Govind Maharaj, Art, Uttar Pradesh; Harsh Kumar Gupta, Science and Engineering, Andhra Pradesh; Ilena Citaristi, Art, Orissa; J.N. Chaudhry, Civil Service, Delhi; Kamal Kumar Sethi, Medicine, Delhi; Kanaka Srinivasan, Art, Delhi; Kashmiri Lal Zakir, Literature and Education, Chandigarh; Kavungal Chatunni Panicker, Art, Kerala; Laltluangliana Khiangte, Literature and Education, Mizoram; Lothar Lutze, Literature and Education, Germany; Badminton player Madhumita Bisht, Sports, Delhi; Madhup Mudgal, Art, Delhi; Mangte Chungneijang Mary Kom, Sports, Manipur; Mehmood Dhaulpuri, Art, Delhi; Mehmooda Ali Shah, Literature and Education, Jammu and Kashmir; Melhupra Vero, Social Work, Nagaland; Mohan Kameswaran, Medicine, Tamil Nadu; Mohan Singh Gunjyal, Sports, Arunachal Pradesh; Mrinal Pande, Journalism, Delhi; Narendra Kumar, Science and Engineering, Karnataka; P.S. Bedi, Social Work, Delhi; Singer Pankaj Udhas, Art, Maharashtra; Prasad Sawkar, Art, Goa; R. Balasubramanian, Science and Engineering, Tamil Nadu; Rajendra Kumar Saboo, Social Work, Chandigarh; Sitarist Ustad Rashid Khan, Art, West Bengal; Tennis Star Sania Mirza, Sports, Andhra Pradesh; Sanjeev Bagai, Medicine, Delhi; Seyed Ehtesham Hasnain, Science and Engineering, Andhra Pradesh; Beautician Shahnaz Husain, Trade and Industry, Delhi; Shobana Chandrakumar, Art, Tamil Nadu; Shree Lal Joshi, Art, Rajasthan; Guru Shyama Charan Pati, Art, Jharkhand; Sitanshu Yashaschandra, Literature and Education, Gujarat; Sucheta Dalal, Journalism, Maharashtra; Infosys CEO’s Wife Sudha Murthy, Social Work, Karnataka; Sister Sudha Varghese, Social Work, Bihar; Sugathakumari, Literature and Education, Kerala; Suresh Krishna, Trade and Industry, Tamil Nadu; Surinder Kaur, Art, Haryana; Suwalal Chhaganmal Bafna, Social Work, Maharashtra; Swaminathan Sivaram, Science and Engineering, Maharashtra; Tehemton Erach Udwadia, Medicine, Maharashtra; Tsering Landol, Medicine, Jammu and Kashmir; Upendra Kaul, Medicine, Delhi; Vasundhra Komkali, Art, Madhya Pradesh and Yashodhar Mathpal, Art, Uttaranchal. |
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A Historical perspective of the Indian Subcontinent
by K AUSHAL VEPA  ( RSVP- contactirf@gmail.com)FRIDAY, JANUARY 27th, 2005 @ 6:30 PM Swagat Restaurant, Milpitas, 68 S. Abel Street, Milpitas |
Jan 20, 2006: Martin Luther King Jr. remembered- .....Sort of
The great Civil Rights Leader Martin Luther King Jr was remembered- sort of. this past week on his anniversary. MLK Jr.and his Nonviolent Civil Disobedience- which was a landmark and history making movement in the USA and the world.
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NonViolent Civil Rights Leader MLK Jr was inspired by M.K Gandhi (From Archives) |
Its always seen that most of such important celbrations result in mostly the already committed making pledges - while rarely a dent goes into middle America and newer Americans.
While not an indictment against only the New Americans- the mainstream community needs to step forward as well. Esp. to impart education on Civil rights and Civic participation AND HONORING ICONS in US and World History.
Is it really strange when US kids in school cannot even name their own State or rest of the States in the USA- and get their socialogy lessons from the Television including about demographics!- that a great American as MLK Jr. would not be remembered??
If US history itself is treated as such- what about the Histroy and Geography of the World!
RELATED Issue: Ms.Rosa Parks passed away recently 2005- and in an informal survey- I found (to my dismay) even black kids didnot know much about her symbolic stand against segregation ( for the uninitiated- Ms Parks- who was Black /Afro-American- refused to go and sit in the back of aa public bus when instructed by a White bus driver- as per prevailing law then).
What a Shame!
LAST WORD: Heres a proposal- In the month of FEB.- The BLACK HISTORy MONTH-Lets Each one make it a point to check out at least oene book on the history of Black/ Afro-Americans.
If do-able- ATTEND ONE EVENT - function celebration in your neighborhood.
PS: For Older people- ask your America -raised kids in school for guidance and tips!
Jan 14, 2006:
Following is a list of Iraq and Iran Scenarios developing.
Without much comment- one can see the Drumbeats for a Confrontation brewing
Following is a list of Iraq and Iran Scenarios developing.
Without much comment- one can see the Drumbeats for a Confrontation brewing.
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IRAQ WMD -Signatory of Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) accused of holding weapons of mass destruction including a nuclear arms programme. UN weapons inspectors were expelled from the country on the eve of the 2003 war. |
IRAN WMD -Signatory of Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) accused of working on nuclear weapons programme. UN weapons inspectors are at work in the country. |
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| CONCEALMENT Confirmed to UN in 1995 that it had a clandestine nuclear weapons scheme following revelations by Saddam Hussein's brother-in-law who had defected. Before 2003 invasion, regime was accused of concealing WMD from UN inspectors. |
CONCEALMENT Confirmed to UN in 2002 that it had a clandestine nuclear programme after revelations by Iranian dissidents. Iran was accused by Britain, France and Germany yesterday of "concealment and deception". |
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| "MISCALCULATION"- -Statement by US Colin Powell, US Secretary of State, 5 March 2003: "It serves the interest of no one for Saddam to miscalculate. It doesn't serve the interest of the United States or the world or Iraq for Saddam to miscalculate our intention or our willingness to act." |
"MISCALCULATION" -Statement by US White House spokesman Scott McClellan, 11 January, 2006: "The Iranian regime has made a serious miscalculation.If negotiations have run their course and Iran is not going to negotiate in good faith, then there's no other option but to refer the matter to the Security Council." |
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| UN SECURITY COUNCIL November 2002: Iraq threatened with military action unless it co-operates with UN inspectors. US leads invasion without Security Council backing. |
UN SECURITY COUNCIL 12 January 2006: Britain, France and Germany call for Iran to be referred to the UN Security Council for possible sanctions. Possible dealbreaker excuse for unilateral military action by US, Israel (No wonder Cheney went to Pakistan recently) |
LAST WORD: What A Shame that Nation Leaders Cant Wage & Achieve Peace and Come to Peaceful Solutions.
While it i clear that there is plenty of blame to go around. What about the 1000's of innocent people-women, children who will die and many more who will continue to suffer without haveing ANY say in these matters of THEIR Life & DEATH!
JAN 12, 2006- Three meetings- Profound Implications to the World
Recently Concluded were three disparate events all connected to trends in the coming year- possibly shaping the world in different ways and with different lessons derived
The CES- Consumer Electronics Show-Las Vegas concluded in last week with a whopping 130,000 attendees from across the globe. giants Microsoft- Google and iIntel, Dell, Sonty, Toshiba t name a few big names and hundereds of support manufacturers showcased the newest gadgets for 2006.
CES sets the trend for the "hot" innovations, products and technology of the year- that will shape alll our lives in coming years.
Intel scored big with their new dual processor running all major appliiances- which Yahoo, Google, Sony Toshiba etc as well as computer makers Microsoft, Dell all plan to use
Yes! Googl and Yahoo got into the Multimedia entertainment industry- trying to rival Apple Computers IPod phenom - by offering Content on desktop/ TV-top devices and on the PC via their services. these use the new Intel chip
Tie ups announced include Yahoo w/ABC and other studios; Google with CBS and NBA and 5000 video titles.
Also, just like eBay Google now has a place for any amateur video/film maker to sell content and yes utilize their search too.
Not to be Out done- Apple Computer and Steve Jobs had their own shindig in San Francisco-the MacWorld Expo Jan 9-12th- where again the IPod played center stage and most exhibitors' products revolved around it.
Apple got some improvement done to the iShuffle and offered iWeb- a blog+ publishing suite and - the new and fancy version of iMac and the new line of Mac notebooks with INTEL inside!!
So Intel CEO Otenelli scored twice and shared center stage at CES AND MacWorld.
Job promises 3x the speed and performance and lowerconsumption- but as usual with Mac products- remains to be seen.
iPod now has a Video viewing version and remote controllers available and hookup to the home entertainment system etc.
.... More later
The Third Meeting was the Annual Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas- The Non resident Indian (NRI) day- held in Hyderabad, India
This is the attempt by the Indian government to woo NRI from across the globe or "diaspora" as the media and folks say.
This time around the PBD was a damper acc. to reports, as abt 1000 attended. The event had lot more GoI officials and reps from Indian States touting their wares- and seemingly focussed ONLY on investors.
This hasn't sat well with the NRI's in general
a) Because the "high ad Mighty Investors" are a hard bunch to please esp as they are "returning Indians with a chip on their shoulder" and
b) As other NRIS - the non business variety- interested in Heritage, Culture, Arts and developmental and charity etc were treated shoddily.
For the Government side, many States representatives outnumbered the attendees in the sessions
Well what a sheme- India Shining does shine only on major Corporations- Tech markets and investment conmmunity and seems restriceted to mostly Urban areas.
This tells a story of India's potential and seeming lack of vision planning, goal definition and execution
Hope lessons are learned
January 1- 2006 HAPPY NEW YEAR
Wish and hope that 2006 is a good year and more positive than negative things happen in the world