RAM NAUMI - LESSON 1: AVOID “MANTHRAS” OF MODERN TIMES - GOSSIPERS AND BACKBITERS.

Thakur Ranjit Singh

Ramayan for modern generation is full of teachings that are very relevant to us. But the lament is that in many cases, people sitting on vyas gaddi, or pracharaks, those delivering lectures, do not take this opportunity to make a link between Ramayan’s teachings and it relevance to us today for the modern man.

Many people tell the same old stories of Ramayan we have been hearing for decades. We all know it, BUT HOW ARE THEY RELEVANT TO US TODAY? FIJI PUNDIT will tell.

The relevance of Ramayan for modern men (new generation) is to be careful of an evil "Manthra" who plants seed of discord, disunity and infighting between peaceful and loving families and friends. So be warned against such Manthras, discover them before they can cause you misery. And do not fall for them. 

I will fill that vacuum over this period of Ram Naumi. The first lesson that I wish to speak on is the “Manthra”, the backbiter, the ‘chugalkhor”, the gossiper, the spoiler – the one very near to the family, but who does great damage to family unity. Yes, something that I have personally been through, being victims of people who belong to religious organisations, act as devoted people of Gods, but never learn anything from the real teachings of scriptures. There are many around us. Be careful of those who talk about others. They will start talking about you as soon as you leave. This brings discord in the family, between brothers, sons, sisters-in-law and many other relatives. Many of you may have been through this situation.

In Ramayan, Kekei was very loving “mother” to Ram, and Ram mutually loved her very much. So did Ram’s father, Dashrath, for whom this love for Kekei became a “fatal attraction” (as he loses his life in fulfilling the vows he gave her). She was one of the three Queens of King Dashrath. He lost his life for a “vachan”, promise or vow he had given her in time of vulnerability in a war. Kekei was almost unaware of it, till her servant from her father’s place, Manthra, reminded her of this on the last night before Ram's coronation. 

Manthra” filled the ears” of a hitherto loving mother, Kekei, with false situations that she would be rendered as a slave queen and Kaushalya (Ram’s biological mother) would become the Queen Mother. In the greed to become Queen Mother, at insistence and “filling the ear” by Manthra with evil thoughts in a loving family, Kekei halts Ram’s coronation and had him banished and exiled to forest for 14 years, while announcing coronation for her son Bharat. However Bharat (also called Dharam Raj or the righteous one) rejects this, insisting that the eldest brother, Ram should rightfully be the king. He oversees the kingdom of Ayodhya in trust for Ram, till his return 14 years after the exile. (One of the reasons for which we celebrate Diwali)

Be careful of modern-day Manthra spreading the seeds of disunity in families.

But the problem we have in Kaliyug, our modern times, is that we stopped producing righteous and selfless brothers like Bharat. We are full of selfish people, brothers, who have been singing Ramayan for decades, but still failing to learn much from the half-brotherly love depicted in Ramayan – the sacrifices that a half-brother Bharat does for his elder brother Ram. Ramayan is full of very noble and good teachings for modern men, but unfortunately, much of these are not practiced, or imparted by those preaching Ramayan. Most often, they tell the story only, and abstract teachings with little relation and relevance to current times.

Hence, the lesson we should learn from Ramayan is to be careful of people like “Manthra” –the modern day Manthra, masquerading as your friend and relative, but in reality, holding much malice against you and your family, and spreading false rumours or feeding others with gossip that causes rift in the family. 

Some audience may feel bad and assume that such teachings and lessons refer to them. Too bad, if the hat fits you, and you happen to be acting like “Manthra”, the gossiper and backbiter, then put the hat on.

Improve yourselves from lessons and morale delivered by Ramayan. No use going to the Katha, eating prashaad and food, (and some consuming grog) and going home. It is a waste of time-you have been doing this for many years, in fact decades. Abse sudhar jaao - improve from now.

Manthra feeding the evil thoughts in the mind of Queen Kekei - the type of people we need to be wary of in modern times who feed us with lies, distortions and divisive information which ultimately results in destroying peace and family unity.

We have a Fiji-Indian saying that if somebody tells you that a crow has flown away with your ears, DO NOT RUN AFTER THE CROW- FIRST FEEL YOUR EARS AND SEE THAT THEY ARE INTACT. What that means is that do not fall for such rumours and unfounded second-hand gossips.

ESTABLISH THE FACTS BEFORE MAKING ANY RASH DECISIONS. 

Kekei -the face of good turned evil by a backbiter Manthra, in 'the latest Ramayan serial, "Siya Ke Ram"

Please I hope you will learn from the teachings of Ramayan to be careful to avoid falling victims to “Manthra” of modern times. They are lurking around you, both as males and females, as friends. Many may be your  relatives. I know some of them, but they do not know that I know - but I remain careful-and do not give a damn to what they say.

A tell tale sign is, they will say -"koi se batana nahin"..do not tell others. So, be warned and be blessed by Shri Ram. 

This has been the first lesson from FIJI PUNDIT.

[About the Author: Thakur Ranjit Singh is a blogger, a media scholar and a person who has been singing Ramayan since he started reading Hindi over six decades ago. He is former Secretary of Nasinu Branch of Sanatan Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji. He advocates Ramayan pracharaks and those conducting discourse to IMPORTANTLY preach about the relevance of Ramayan to modern man, instead of repeating stories we already know about.]

Waitakere Ethnic Board AGM hears of Multiculturalism, and praised for promoting it

Thakur Ranjit Singh

On a very pleasant morning of Saturday, 5 March, 2016, I found myself at Kelston Community Centre in West Auckland. It was the occasion of 12th Annual General Meeting of Waitakere Ethnic Board (WEB). We were to get an update on achievements of WEB. It was notable for another reason, as the present and future of Auckland Council were the keynote speakers. Council’s Deputy Mayor, Penny Hulse and Mayor-in-Waiting, Phil Goff graced the occasion with their presence. At this Kelston Community Centre, I got a bout of nostalgia. Some ten years ago I had a dose of multiculturalism at the same venue by an ethnic person in a seminar organised by WEB on concerns of ethnic communities.

Faces of diversity at Waitakere Ethnic Board AGM

In an Ethnic Board workshop in 2006 at the same venue, I had the opportunity to listen to an interesting anecdote from an Asian speaker. This migrant had an uncanny ability to laugh at his own predicament, which is a great human virtue lacking in many today.

He said that if a pregnant woman had to give birth while in an Auckland taxi, she would be safe. And that you would be luckier to have a heart attack in one of Auckland's public buses. This is because the chances are that the Indian taxi driver is doctor, or the Chinese, Malaysian or Singaporean bus driver is a cardiologist.

Both these classes of people and similar professionals are forced to give up their profession which they had practised for most of their lives in their home country. Their qualifications allow them to migrate to New Zealand in the general skills category but when they get here the reality of job market in Auckland hits them. This was covered in a New Zealand Herald opinion piece by this writer.

Patron of WEB and Deputy Mayor, Penny Hulse: She says that DNA of diversity promoted by former Waitakere City Council is being emulated at the Super City.

Therefore it was nice to hear Councillor Penny Hulse speak about multiculturalism, and it appears that much needs to be done, while much has also been done in the last decade. As an export of former Waitakere City Council to the Super (Auckland) City, she spoke about the practices of the Westy Council which always tended to celebrate diversity. “We are proud that the DNA that our former Waitakere City Council possess has been taken on board by the Super City. And we are proud of Waitakere Ethnic Board to have always lighted the flame of diversity,” she said. She spoke about many instance and forums WEB held to promote understanding and goodwill.

The next speaker, MP for Mt Roskill, Phil Goff, also spoke about diversity in Auckland, and so many diverse community festivals, notably Lantern festival and Diwali, and how the cultural landscape of New Zealand was made more colourful by resourceful migrants. 

Mayor-in-Waiting, Phil Goff: Ethnic communities can have some comfort with somebody who represents Mt Albert Electorate with some 40% of people being non Anglo Saxons (Non-Europeans). They can be assured of an Ethnic -Community -friendly Mayor in him. This especially is good news for WEB, who are good friends with Phil Goff.

“Auckland has changed by us embracing diversity and respect for other cultures where we happily celebrate Chinese New year and Indian festival Diwali and other ethnic festivals. The city today is richer for the migrants we have,” the future Mayor said (Phil Goff has thrown his name in the mayoral election to be held next year, and FIJI PUNDIT him to win.) For an MP who comes from Mt Albert electorate which boasts a large percentage of ethnic and non-Anglo Saxon (Non-European) voters, Phil Goff is well placed to silence the critics (including your truly) who claim Auckland Council to be too White. Phil Goff’s ability to work with various communities, and his acceptance by National Party movers and shakers is a plus Auckland Council needs. Especially its ability to work in partnership with government to address crucial issues such as housing and transport. (So much for campaigning for the next Mayor)

Now, coming back to reality of WEB AGM. The current president of Waitakere Ethnic Board has gone through apprenticeship in this job, as he tagged along with his father, Reverend Amail Habib, when he used to be the president. So Habib Junior (Boaz) is well-placed to have a vision for WEB.

Face of diversity and Ladies Power at WEB AGM

“Going forward we will continue to build on our strong relationships with the Council and the Local Boards and representing our ethnic communities. Our message to the Council and Local Boards is 'Trust, Engage and Communicate' with your ethnic communities. The Waitakere Ethnic Board is committed to doing this by championing the causes of ethnic diversity, inclusion, fairness and equality,' he said

He further stated that he believed the Waitakere Ethnic Board has tremendous potential to do good for the community as it has demonstrated till now. “We continue to stand in the gap for our ethnic communities. The future of the Waitakere Ethnic Board is its ethnic communities and our future direction is intimately linked with them” the president, Boaz said.

The following nine executives were confirmed as elected: Boaz Habib, Shirley Freeman, Malvindar Pal Singh, Andy Cawston, Derek Lim, Mehzabeen Aziz, Cristina Pitas, Melissa Inouye and Francisco Hernandez. At the same time, Rajeev Vasudeva, Kwan Lim and yours truly, Thakur Ranjit Singh retired as executives.

Current Executives of WEB present at AGM. From Left:Cristina Pitas (Romania), Andy Cawston (Canadian),  Dr. Melissa Inouye (Chinese/Japanese), Francisco Hernandez (Philippines), Malvinder Pal Singh (Acting Treasurer-India), Shirley Freeman (Acting Vice President WEB-Guyana), and Dr Boaz Habib, (President, WEB (Missing- Derek Lim and Mehzabeen Aziz)

On the future direction of WEB, Boaz outlined the following major strategies for the coming year. These, among others included:

--   Building WEB presence in the Whau region especially New Lynn area

-    Building on our existing relationship base with Local boards and Auckland Council 
      and getting greater involvement in ethnic issues so they remain well informed 
      on the currency and importance of ethnic-centric issues, and

-     Continue to have more ethnic community relevant forums to raise awareness 
       and continue to be the voice for the marginalised.

With firm and strong leadership at WEB, there is no doubt they will achieve their goals. We wish all the best to the new executives. But very importantly, we pray that the leadership of the next Auckland Council can walk its talk on inculcating real multiculturalism in the Super City – there has been much lip service-now is the time for some genuine action. Thanks to Waitakere Ethnic Board in being our Marshalls in hoisting the flag of diversity. 

[Thakur Ranjit Singh is a former executive of WEB and served in the position of Media and Community Liaison Officer. He runs his blog site FIJI PUNDIT and still aims to fill the vacuum of media eclipse on ethnic issues by the mainstream and side stream media. He strives to cover ethnic issues, especially the controversial ones, swept under the carpet by a predominantly White media]

Is Fiji ready for same-sex marriage?

Frank Bainimarama, Fiji’s Prime Minister has indeed been very frank on the issue of same-sex marriage, which reflects the opinion and mood of Fiji people on this controversial subject. His comments followed an FBC TV news on calls for gay marriage, and this has ruffled a few feathers. Bainimarama vehemently claimed that gay marriage would not take place in Fiji in his lifetime, and claimed that “Fiji does not need that rubbish”. He further stated that if a woman wanted to marry another woman, "they should go and have it done in Iceland and stay and live there." On calls of constitutional equality, Bainimarama said that” the constitution did not refer to equality as the opportunity for same sex marriage or love for all as love by Sakaraia for Ropate ending at the altar.”

Does Constitutional equality in Fiji mean that love of Sakaraia and Ropate will end at altar as MARRIAGE?

Shamima Ali, the head of the Fiji Women's Crisis Centre, on a news programme is reported to have said that Fiji should consider allowing same-sex marriage. In response to the Prime Minister’s statement, she said it was totally regressive against gay and lesbian community in Fiji who have been struggling with discrimination. She accused PM of being homophobic and said acceptance of the gay community has slowly been increasing, and leaders should instead be encouraging tolerance. Yes, I agree – give recognition, encourage tolerance, give equality in law and promote acceptance. However for it to end in marriage, and in Fiji, is indeed a tall order. High on heels of this, a Fiji lawyer, one Aman Ravindra Singh, jumped in the furore and accused the Prime Minister of breaking the law through his statements. Singh is reported to have said that the comments breach section 65 of the constitution, which contains an offence called inciting communal antagonism.

Let us view this in the context of the so-called Western civilisation and human rights issues. When some of the Western countries which have this legislation were ‘civilised,’ Fiji was still in Stone Age. At the dawn of civilization, Fijians still lived in caves, wore grass skirts and Chiefs relished on meals including meat of fellow human beings from the defeated tribes. Hence any comparison of Fiji to these long “Civilised” western countries with predominantly Anglo Saxon (European) population is misplaced. And Singh and Ali need to be informed that even today, in the country of their forefathers (India), sexual relations between same sexes is still illegal, let alone marriage. This was so in Fiji as well till very recent past where it was referred to as “unnatural” act. 

As a product of that Girmitiya culture, I do not care what gays and lesbians do behind closed doors. I show and support acceptance and tolerance. They have their rights to practice their sexual orientation, and I agree with the law to give them rights to be different, and allow acceptance, in line with global movements and pressures. But to give this relationship equality with marriage is indeed a tall order. This, especially in a very conservative and religious country which is founded on Christianity, and deeply rooted with other religions, including Hinduism and Islam. All these religions see marriage as union of a man and a woman. Fiji saw civilization quite late to beat all other ‘civilised’ countries for same sex marriage. Our religious priests, Pundits and Maulvis will faint at the thought of marrying Adam and Steve, Sakaraia and Ropate, Ram and Shyam and Rafiq and Safiq.

For those who think Fiji should follow its near neighbour in adopting gay marriages need to realise that despite being less than 3 hours flight away, New Zealand is miles away from Fiji in all respects. It is a First World (Developed) Country which saw Western civilisation many miles ahead of Fiji. Unlike Fiji, it has got some forty (40) per cent of people who are atheists-they do not believe in God. Fiji cannot be compared with them. 

Despite its seemingly liberal laws and policies on gender equality, people need to realise that New Zealand, still classed union of same sex as “Civil Union”, and did not call it “marriage” till very recently. Like Fiji, it is a country founded on Christianity, and there are still large sections of its community who resent laws allowing “marriage’ between same sexes.
Perhaps this letter in the Herald on Sunday recently by a reader sums up the sentiment of a large portion of its population, who still believe in God, the biology of reproduction and the law of nature. It sums up my views as well:

“Opposing same sex marriage is not depriving homosexuals of any legal rights, social standing or status. It is merely confirming the traditional and universally accepted definition of marriage, a union between a man and a woman. This is not just biblical authority or Christianity, it is a concept held by all cultures and peoples since the dawn of civilisation for the procreation and preservation of species.”

Thank God for Shamima Ali, lawyer Aman Ravindra Singh, and others advocating same-sex marriage in Fiji - that their fathers did not decide to enter into a gay- marriage. Had they done so, today, instead of advocating for something that is alien to our culture, they would still be hanging loosely somewhere craving to come into human life through the Creator’s rule of union of a man and a woman.

Reviving Fiji Girmit Awareness:A Small trip by a Fiji Minister - a Milestone for Girmit History

Thakur Ranjit Singh

Fiji Girmit Foundation in New Zealand was formed by a passionate group of people interested in promoting awareness of Girmit, especially in the new generation, who appear to have lost pride in their heritage. A recent visit to Fiji has created some milestones:

1) Thanksgiving visit to Nasilai Village, and partnership in village developments
2) Discussion on inclusion of Girmit History in Fiji School curriculum..
3) Discussion initiated for 14 May to be declared as Public Holiday in Fiji.
4) Schools assistance projects initiated.
5) Library book drive in New Zealand for Fiji schools to be undertaken.
6) Translation of Rajendra Prasad's "Tears in Paradise" into ITaukei language. 

Read a detailed analysis of achievements and future direction of the organisation.

Master Shiu Charan, President of Fiji Girmit Foundation of New Zealand with Fiji's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola, who was the Chief Guest at Girmit Day in Auckland in May, 2015.

As the Fiji Airways Boeing 737-800 glided in descent-mode to Auckland International Airport early Sunday morning on 18 October, 2015 the memories of an eventful trip to Nasilai Village came flooding in. After having that good airline meal of chicken pasta, I was reminded of all the delicious nice food that was served to us by the village ladies - so tasty, cooked, with so much love for the visitors, and served with so much hospitality. We salute Nasilai Villagers of Nausori, Fiji.

Our delegation from Fiji Girmit Foundation of New Zealand was overall satisfied with the success of a memorable and effective pilgrimage to Fiji. When the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola was chosen and invited as the Chief Guest and keynote speaker for Girmit Commemoration on 17 May 2015 in Auckland, New Zealand, some objected. But we reminded them that our history and mythologies show that people do change, and the path that Fiji Government has taken is historic in itself.

While commemorating Girmit on the theme of Syria Ship tragedy, we expressed our desire to Minister Kubuabola that we wished to visit and honour the descendants of the villagers at Nasilai Village. He agreed to facilitate and echoed that milk of human kindness tend to ooze out in times of adversity. He applauded the plan of the Girmit Foundation to present a plaque to the people of Nasilai, the descendants of those villagers who risked their lives to rescue the survivors of the wreck.

“This noble gesture would appropriately recognise a significant historical event and at the same time serves as a reminder of the humanity, compassion and goodwill that prevailed in a most tragic circumstance. It confirms that the goodness within us transcends boundaries, and therein lies our hope,” the Minister said. He added that he was hopeful that the gesture of the Foundation would help contributing promotion of better understanding and goodwill amongst the different communities that make up our multicultural Fiji.

In reply the Trustee of Girmit Foundation, author of ‘Tears in Paradise” Rajendra Prasad, thanked the Minister for his kind words and congratulated the Minister and the Bainimarama’s Fiji First Government of forging a new hope for all the citizens of Fiji, with equality, fairness and social justice for all. He alluded to the fact that the biggest issue with lack of knowledge on Girmit (indenture) was because the History is always written from the viewpoint of victor and history of Fiji Indians have been stolen. 

“To correct this anomaly, the Foundation is requesting the Minister for his government to consider including Girmit History in Fiji’s education curriculum, and to declare 14 May, the anniversary date of arrival of first Indians to Fiji, as a Public Holiday. These would not only create better understanding of the historical perspective, but would also be a fitting acknowledgment to those ordinary Girmitiyas who did extraordinary deeds in extraordinary times,” the author Rajendra Prasad requested the Minister, who promised to take these requests to the government.

Meeting the Minister: New Zealand delegation meeting Minister Kubuabola on 13 October, 2015 in his office. From left: Vijendra Prasad, Viren Lal, Minister, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola, Head of Girmit Delegation, Sardar Harnam Singh Golian, Secretary of NZ Girmit Foundation and author of this article, Thakur Ranjit Singh, and Shashi Kala Singh.

One small gesture by the Minister by attending a Girmit function in Auckland has eventuated into a milestone, and working for benefit of all towards that. A delegation from New Zealand made a thanksgiving trip to Nasilai Village on 14 October, 2015 and presented the villagers with gifts and a commemorative plaque. The villagers were also promised assistance through New Zealand and Indian High Commissions of some village projects that needed to be completed.

The delegation also met Minister Kubuabola to follow up on the request for May 14 to be declared a Public Holiday. This is under discussion and some positive outcomes are expected on this request.

Meeting Minister of Education: From left, Viren Lal, Minister for Education, Dr Mahendra Reddy, Vijendra Prasad, Sardar Harnam Singh Golian, Shashi Kala Singh and Thakur Ranjit Singh

The delegation, while in Fiji, also visited Minister of Education, Dr Mahendra Reddy.  “The Ministry is now looking at the curriculum and Girmit History is something that we hope to include in our curriculum, “Minister Reddy told the delegation. And some positive steps have already been taken. There was discussion on some rural school projects that were to be undertaken with assistance from some New Zealand Trusts. A suggestion was also made to commence a book drive whereby library books and other similar items would be collected in New Zealand and shipped to Fiji to be distributed in its schools, especially in the rural and maritime ones that need assistance. Girmit Foundation would work with the Ministry to bring this to reality in 2016.

During Minister’s visit during Girmit Commemoration, a suggestion was mooted where the book on Girmit history and events, “Tears in Paradise Sacrifices and Suffering, 1879- 2004” was to be translated into ITaukei (Fijian) language. This has now been facilitated by cooperation between Fiji’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Indian High Commission in Fiji, and the book is in the process of translation by a Fijian scholar.

The book, authored by  Rajendra Prasad, Trustee of Fiji Girmit Foundation of New Zealand is being translated into ITaukei Language by a Fijian scholar, with assistance from Indian High Commission in Fiji

Finally, this revival of Girmit movement in Auckland was intended to inspire Fiji Girmit Council to get back to its old form and take a cue from Indo-Fijian Diaspora in New Zealand. As a result, a part of the delegation also made a courtesy call to Fiji Girmit Council’s Girmit Centre in Lautoka, where talks were held between the delegation and committee members of Fiji Girmit Council to work together for benefit of Girmit history.

As the early morning Fiji Airways flight number FJ415 hit the tarmac at Auckland International Airport on the night flight from Fiji at around 2am on a Sunday morning, I was jolted back, and appreciated Fiji Airways for the night flights, which have double benefits. While it makes maximum utilisation of its asset, the planes, with overnight and short-haul flights, it also gives the travellers on short Fiji trips that extra time back home with friends and relatives. No longer are two days wasted in travelling to and fro - they are undertaken in the depth of the night. Very nice gesture from Fiji Airways. I suppose I could make a good overseas Fijian Travel writer for Fiji Airways. I wished to be that, but it seems they still believe you need to be a White man to write well. Perhaps like Girmit, a colonial hangover.

But, yes, this was not the last trip. As Nasilai Villagers lamented that many people visited them but never came back, the New Zealand delegation has found a very good ally in Fiji Government, especially its Minister for Foreign Affair, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola. Hence the above-mentioned projects and initiatives would end up bearing fruits in fertile vision. And we promise to fly Fiji Airways again. Thanks for the nice friendly service, and that midnight double can of Fiji Gold. Isa lei Fiji. Nasilai Village, we will visit again, and relish that crab curry I longed to eat more of. Vinaka Vaka Levu, Nasilai Villagers, and Minister, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola, and your very effective team in Suva, Fiji. We will come again.

[About the author: Thakur Ranjit Singh is a Founding Trustee and the Secretary of Fiji Girmit Foundation, New Zealand. He was part of the delegation that visited Fiji and Nasilai Village. He runs blog site, FIJI PUNDIT, and Indian Media Watch, NZ, and is a media scholar, specialising in social media and covering Fiji news bypassed by the Indian mainstream media in New Zealand.]

The Witchdoctor- Baba Scandal: Indian Newslink breached Advertising Standards Code and Ethics

Advertising Standards Authority’s ruling: Indian Newslink was “IRRESPONSIBLE” in promoting fraudulent witchdoctors.

Indian Media Watch- New Zealand had lodged a complaint with Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) as a concerned citizen when there was an outcry of fraud and bogus witchdoctors from India, whose fraudulent practices resulted in financial loss to people. Indian Newslink was the leading paper which financially benefitted from giving “oxygen” by promoting these bogus fraudsters, masquerading as men of Hindu Gods. This Indian media which allowed such reckless, irresponsible and deceptive advertisement should have known of this deceit, especially when its Editor sits on various crime and ethnic advisory bodies, sanctioned by New Zealand Police. In addition, it hosts and promotes excellence awards. Indian Media Watch New Zealand has sought accountability from those (media) which generally sought accountability from others.

Indian Media Watch of New Zealand,  had made its first complaint  to the complaints committee of  Advertising Standard Authority (ASA). It was against the Auckland based Indian newspaper, Indian Newslink for violating some Basic Principles of the Advertising Code of Ethics. ASA ruled that Indian newslink was “IRRESPONSIBLE” in promoting fraudulent witchdoctors and showed a lack of "social responsibility to consumers and society”
While the paper has changed the colour of its masthead to convenient blue (coinciding with the new flag and National Party colour), it does not absolve them of the citing and rebuke by ASA.

The complaint to ASA was against the Auckland Indian newspaper Indian Newslink, its Publisher, Jacob Mannothra and its Editor and General Manager, Venkat Raman for violating the Basic Principles of the Advertising Code of Ethics vis-à-vis items 3 and 4 which read: 

3) No advertisement should be misleading or deceptive or likely to mislead or deceive the consumer. 

And 

4) All advertisements should be prepared with a due sense of social responsibility to consumers and to society.

In addition to above, rule 2 further amplifies above – 

Truthful Presentation which says that: Advertisements should not contain any statement or visual presentation or create an overall impression which directly or by implication, omission, ambiguity or exaggerated claim is misleading or deceptive, is likely to deceive or mislead the consumer, makes false and misleading representation, abuses the trust of the consumer or exploits his/her lack of experience or knowledge

Exhibit 1: Bhadra Kalimatha Astrological Centre advertisement of July 15, 2015 edition, page 4 (supporting advertisements attached):

The misleading advertisements, named after deities, with religious photos to con the religious-minded people who are made to believe these frauds possess some divine powers. 

The witchdoctors claim to have powers to solve  every imaginable human problems. They even claim to have powers to predict Lotto numbers, which they could never use themselves. It was extremely poor judgement for Indian media to accept such misleading advertisement which ended in people being cheated and robbed of money.

This advertisement gravely violated the requirements of the above principles and rule 2, as it was both misleading and deceptive. It was evident that due sense of social responsibility and duty of care were not exercised. 

ASA Decision

In advertisement for Bhadra Kalimatha Astrological Centre, the Complaints Board ruled that since the advertiser failed to substantiate or give a due response to the complaints, the advertisement had not been prepared with the requisite sense of social responsibility to consumers and the society. Hence the Complaints Board ruled that the advertisement was in breach of the complaints lodged above, and breached advertising code and guidelines.

It has cited Indian Newslink for failing to act responsibly. It ruled that Indian Newslink “had a responsibility under the principle of self-regulation to check the content of advertisement which ‘had NOT (my emphasis) been prepared with the requisite sense of social responsibility to consumers and society”

Discussion:

No response could be obtained from the advertisers because they had fled the country because of their illegal activities. The fact that Indian Newslink said they had stopped the advertisement is no gallant action on their part, as the goose laying golden eggs had absconded, hence there was nobody to pay for the ads, hence the paper had no option but to pull the ads. 

The main purpose in bringing this case and proving Indian Newslink wanting was to show that corporate and individuals with money, power and contacts are not above law. Media which seek accountability from others failed here when it was seen to be irresponsible and it appears to have abdicated its responsibility to the public and community at large. And this by an Indian newspaper claiming leadership in Auckland?

Also, this was from an Editor who was at forefront of fighting this evil and suddenly was gripped with selective amnesia. Why? All businesses need to have principles, especially those who have a big dance and song about dishing our awards for excellence in business, and hosting big lectures on good governance and building better society. You never do that by promoting frauds and their businesses of fooling vulnerable people.

Initially, yours truly Thakur and the Indian Media Watch had intended writing to the Commissioner of Police questioning the suitability of such a person representing ethnic communities, especially Indians, in crime, law and order issues. We will now leave it to the general public whether they wish to raise any concerns. I would also leave it to the good judgement and the conscience of the concerned person to determine, question and analyze his suitability for this august position. Anybody who appears to have compromised their morality and sense of public responsibility for profitability may not be best suited for any appointment that requires unblemished character of trust. I now leave it upon the general public whether they care. And let them be the judge.

Conclusion

In this David versus Goliath case, the intention was for a common person to be able to seek justice, and show they can make a difference. It was to seek justice for the society from media corporates, rich, well-off and influential people in the community with good connections, where they feel above reproach, criticism and censure. For a change, the media, which seek accountability from others were demanded to present their own, and Indian Newslink fell short. I now rest my case, and the lesson to Indian media in Auckland is that they are not above criticism and reprimand for any wrongdoing. Indian Media Watch New Zealand is not their enemy. It is just that it is friends of the community whose interest reign supreme.

A section of India media in Auckland which tried to defame this author and dubbed him as a “failed journalist” underestimated the power of a common man to seek justice for the community. FIJI PUNDIT (blog site) and Indian Media Watch New Zealand (Media-watchdog) are the by-products of this vendetta of hatred and show of power against a common simple person by so-called “giants” and influential people in the community. 

The irony in not lost that this is the first article of FIJI PUNDIT for 2016, and it is “released” in the same week that Bollywood movie, ‘Ghayal Once Again” is released. It is a sequel to 1990 blockbuster, Ghayal, which tells story of a common peaceful rural man –provoked, who fights back the high and mighty in the community. FIJI PUNDIT and Indian Media Watch New Zealand are no different.

[About the author: Thakur Ranjit Singh is the principal of blog FIJI PUNDIT and Indian Media Watch New Zealand. He is a qualified journalist, a post graduate scholar from Auckland University of Technology’s (AUT) media school and former media personality from Fiji].

A THANKSGIVING TRIP TO NASILAI, THE SITE OF SYRIA TRAGEDY: TO ACKNOWLEDGE ITAUKEI MILK OF HUMAN KINDNESS

A PILGRIMAGE TO NASILAI VILLAGE BY FIJI GIRMIT FOUNDATION NZ DELEGATION

Thakur Ranjit Singh

FIJI GIRMIT FOUNDATION NZ has been active and in existence for almost a decade. In October, 2015, it organized a Thanksgiving  pilgrimage from Auckland, NZ  to NASILAI village, the village which had come to rescue of victims of SYRIA TRAGEDY, which you read before in another FIJI PUNDIT article. This article is an account of that visit.

As the Delegation from Fiji Girmit Foundation New Zealand was leaving Nasilai Village after their thanksgiving visit on 14 October, 2015, there appeared to be some divine and unexplained force, urging them to return later. It was certain that it was not our last trip-there was some bond that was pulling us to come back to Nasilai Village.

It appears the whispered legends about spirit of those drowned Indian labourers at Nasilai reef are urging us to comeback. There is talk about strange language and happenings around the reef. Maybe the souls of the drowned Girmitiyas over 140 years ago, are still wondering.

FIJI GIRMIT FOUNDATION NZ did return to the village and helped the renovate and build their community hall and an attached toilet block worth some $150,000.

Maybe others can make a pilgrimage trip to the village where the villagers are as friendly as their forebears were on the fateful night Syria ran aground....PLEASE READ ON......

The welcome sign to Nasilai Village. Over 140 years ago, the forebears of the villagers came to the rescue of and gave shelter and hospitality to survivors of SYRIA (Girmit Ship) Tragedy. 

As the formal ceremony commenced in vakatunoloa (community meeting hall) at Nasilai Village on an overcast morning on 14 October, 2015 at Nakelo, (Rewa) Fiji, the high tide was lapping on the shores some meters away from the meeting house. And the muffled lapping was audible inside. The sea was calm, and the high tide was receding.

History of Nasilai Village explained by this large billboard at the entrance to the Village

However this was not the case over 140 years ago, on a stormy night when the raging waves on the Nasilai Reef claimed 59 lives through sinking of the Girmit ship, Syria, which was carrying Indian indentured labourers to Fiji.

Then, the forebears of this current Nasilai villagers came to the rescue of the survivors and gave them shelter and displayed human love, compassion, hospitality and understanding of the universal language of love, even without understanding each other’s language. 

The Chief of Nasilai Village Chief Daunakelo, receiving the Tabua, and responding to the presentation by the delegation, under the watchful eye of the then NZ National List MP from NZ, Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi

On the day of our visit, the ride to the village reminded us of a wedding procession, with convey of government and high commission vehicles, including our bus. You drive through roads snaking through green vegetation past Nausori Airport and villages/settlements of Naselai,(check the spelling of this other village near Nausori Airport) Visama, Nakelo and thence to Nasilai Village through narrow, dusty and winding road. At the end of the road, very near to the sea there is a sign. It says: “Welcome to Nasilai Village.” 

Over a century ago, there was no road and no sign, but the “welcoming” gesture, character and trait of the village seems to have always been alive and bequeathed to successive generations.

The 2015 theme for Girmit Foundation Commemoration in Auckland was the sinking of ship Syria on the Nasilai Reef on May 11, 1884.(Refer to earlier story).

The Founding President of Fiji Girmit Foundation NZ, Pundit Devakar Prasad had a dream to thank the villagers, but unfortunately passed away before the trip. A delegation from NZ traveled to Fiji to fulfill that dream of a thanksgiving trip. Without the villagers’ valuable, timely help and the traditional Itaukei culture of compassion, the loss of lives would have been much higher. 

Unfortunately, Fijian history has not resonated with such acts of compassion and sacrifice where our two communities stood by and for each other, in good times and in bad ones.

Indeed, there is enormous reservoir of love, affection and goodwill between the two races, which needs to be revealed and cherished. Had it not been for the divide and rule technique of the colonists, (adopted by some ethno-nationalist politicians and nationalist Chefs), there would have been better race relations in Fiji, as was displayed through human language of compassion on that fateful and eventful night over a century ago.

A Very Symbolic Gesture: Gratitude after over 14 decades to the descendants of the village which showed compassion and humanity to people in need. A bond was forged with the delegation from NZ, which promised to have the bond of friendship nurtured and facilitate developments and other assistance by other agencies, including NZ and Indian High Commissions. Secretary/Trustee of Fiji Girmit Foundation of NZ, THAKUR RANJIT SINGH shaking hands of gratitude with CHIEF DAUNAKELO of Nasilai Village, in the shadows of Girmit Banner.

Fiji’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola was the Chief Guest in that Girmit Commemoration on May 17, 2015 in Auckland. The President of the Foundation, Master Shiu Charan commended Nasilai villagers for their timely assistance and hospitality. Unfortunately due to doctor’s advice, he could not travel to Fiji and was deputized by Sardar Harnam Singh Golian.

Now, to fulfil our undertaking of honouring the villagers, a delegation from Fiji Girmit Foundation ventured on this pilgrimage. It included Trustee/Head of Delegation, Sardar Harnam Singh Golian, with a team of 8 from New Zealand. It also included the then New Zealand’s National Member of Parliament, Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi. In Fiji, the delegation was joined by the then NZ High Commissioner, Mark Ramsden, official of Indian High Commission and other local community leaders and media. 

Presentation of Plaque to Chief Daunakelo (extreme left) by the Head of Delegation and Trustee of Fiji Girmit Foundation-New Zealand, SARDAR HARNAM SINGH GOLIAN (with glasses in front). Others in the picture are members of delegation from New Zealand (from left) Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, Viren Lal, Vijay Prasad (back, partly obscured) and Trustee and current (2021) President Krish Naidu.

Gifts of food items, sporting goods and stationery were presented and very warmly received by the villagers in their meeting house. We were honoured with the traditional welcoming yagona (kava) ceremony followed by presentation of Tabua, (whale’s teeth) gifts and a commemorative plaque. There was networking and Talanoa session in which the delegate promised to maintain ongoing relations with the village and facilitate development through New Zealand and Indian High Commissions respectively and other agencies on an ongoing basis for the wellbeing of the village.

It was an emotional event where praises were made to the forebears of the villagers for their compassionate, humanitarian and courageous act of rescue and hospitality. It was especially emotional for the great-granddaughter of one of the survivors of Syria tragedy, Mrs Padma Wati Charan, (wife of Master Shiu Charan) who, with her son Vinesh, had made that special trip from New Zealand as part of the delegation. Her great grandfather, Thakur Kuldip Singh was a survivor of that fateful ship that met a fateful landing.

Jiko Rasoqosoqo, Acting Chief of Protocol at Fiji's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (left, sitting) with Mrs Padma Wati Charan, whose great grandfather from Rajasthan, India was on board the Syria that sank. Luckily, he survived and was looked after by the villagers. It was a nostalgic moment for Padma to be present in the village whose forebears helped her great grandfather.

In general discussion, the villagers cited the immediate need for repairs to their meeting house, addition of a toilet block and completion of a Syria monument that was reportedly undertaken earlier by Indian High Commission. The villagers were thankful to be remembered, and they commented that others had visited before, but forgotten them. They were assured by Sardar Golian that they will not be forgotten, ‘We will work with other agencies to make sure that assistance is given where required, and we will make further visits in future.” he told Chief Daunakelo. The NZ High Commissioner, also assured them of assistance they would provide.

The delegation was treated to a very tasty, healthy and mouth-watering, lunch, which was enjoyed by the delegation and a large media contingent who covered the event. The food appeared to have been very lovingly prepared, and that added to its taste. The event was well-publicised in Fiji media which helped in bringing awareness about Girmit and the inter-ethnic compassion that existed so early in Fiji’s history.

On our way, we visited Nasamila District School. This was facilitated by Ministry of Education. Once again the usual hospitality was displayed by the school teachers and students. It caters for four nearby villages, including Nasilai. The visitors were thrilled by the show of respect, and performance of cultural programmes. 

We presented the school with some sporting goods and stationery, and promised to extend development through educational aid agencies in New Zealand. Our eyes welled up when the Nasamila Cultural Group of students sang the ever haunting and melodious farewell song-Isa Lei.

The delegation was overwhelmed by show of respect and welcome at Nasamila District School, where children from Nasilai Village attend, apart from other three nearby villages. The school children said "good-bye" to  the visitors, with an emotional Isa Lei song. It appears hospitality to visitors in that neighborhood has been bequeathed by their forebears to the current generations.

As we departed Nasilai, one thing was certain. The love, compassion and hospitality that was displayed to the Indian Girmitiyas over140 years ago was evident and inherited by the descendants of those villagers with a big heart. 

And the Itaukei hospitality so well-known worldwide again won the day. It was certain that it was not our last trip - there was some bond that was pulling us to come back to Nasilai Village. 

The Nasilai Light house and splashes of waves on the reef, taken by Sony Zoom camera from Nasilai Village (by Thakur Ranjit Singh).You can see the waves splashing on the reef. If the Captain of the ship was doing his job properly, disaster could have been averted. By 7pm on the fateful night, there was a full moon and had a lookout been posted on the masthead, disaster could have been averted as the breakers would have been visible from a long distance on a moonlit night. But this was not done, and disaster happened due to human weakness, inexperience and negligence. By the time they saw the reef it was too late - the ship hit the reef and started disintegrating at 8.30pm.

It appears the whispered legends about spirit of those drowned Indian labourers at Nasilai reef are urging us to comeback. And by God, we will come back. In addition to development of the village and the school, we may also bring some priest or pundit (may be FIJI PUNDIT should be enough) to appease those wondering souls still seeking salvation and Satgati.

Shat Shat Naman to those who perished and those who helped- salutations.

Om Satgati - may they achieve their final salvation.

[About the author: Thakur Ranjit Singh is a founding Trustee and Secretary of Trustees of Fiji Girmit Foundation New Zealand which came on the thanksgiving trip to Nasilai Village on 14 October, 2015. He was a member of the delegation and communications link between Fiji Government and the Foundation. He is a community worker, a media commentator and scholar, and runs his blog site, FIJI PUNDIT]

I have a Dream: A Thanksgiving Pilgrimage to Syria Wreck in Fiji

The deathbed-Syria Wreck -What is left of Syria at Naselai Reef at Nakelo on Naselai reef in Tailevu, Fiji.

As a delegation from Fiji Girmit Foundation of New Zealand is headed for Naselai Village on a thanksgiving trip on Wednesday 14 October, 2015, we cannot forget the historical events leading to this trip. Fiji’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola was the Chief Guest in Girmit Commemoration on May 17, 2015 in Auckland, with the theme of Syria Wreck. On a fateful night of 11 May, 1884, villagers of Naselai Village risked their own lives and courageously provided valuable and timely assistance, comfort and hospitality in saving many Indian lives.

Now, to honour the villagers, a delegation from Fiji Girmit Foundation, led by President/Trustee Master Shiu Charan, Secretary/Trustee, Thakur Ranjit Singh, Trustee Sardar Harnam Singh Golian and Krishal Naidu, with members Viren Lal and Vijendra Prasad, among others, are visiting Naselai Village and Naselai Reef on a thanksgiving pilgrimage. New Zealand National Party List MP, Kanwaljeet Bakshi is also part of the delegation. They will perform a sevu sevu ceremony, gift a plaque of thanks and initiate a project with ongoing assistance to the village school. Let us, for a moment, go in “flashback” historical mode.

This was the original ship- Leonidas, which brought first Indian Girmitiyas to Fiji on 14 May, 1879. Syria was a similar sailing ship which perished on Naselai Reef on 11 May, 1884.

Let us dust some pages of history for a better perspective to this incident. It was a fateful, eventful and a night full of tragedies in 1884, where a raging sea proved once more that in front of the force of nature, human beings are mere mortals.