Indian-American.Org Sam Rao DesiVoxpopulis

(BBC)~ 71% Indians say "Mera Bharat Mahan"- My India Is Great ~ Sam Rao Indian-AmericanOrg Feb 7

2007-02-07T20:55:00.000-08:00

71% say Mera Bharat Mahan! inspite of social problems & social issues present!
Jai Hind

A recent BBC poll - World Service - reveals interesting aspects of how people of Indian origin view India (and issues that are problems.)

It reveals that a majority of the Indians like to say "Mera Bharat Mahaan" although worried of problems like caste barriers, gender discrimination, corruption, danger to security from within than enemies from outside, government jobs losing respect, and economic growth not benefiting the masses etc

NOTE: Several very interesting points/polls below

Makes me say Jai Hind! ;-0

Original BBC Article:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/south_asia/6320413.stm

Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Caste_barrier_worries_India_Inc_BBC_poll/articleshow/1560569.cms

Indians want to see their country punch its weight around the
world - but are worried the caste system is holding it back, a
BBC poll suggests.

Almost two-thirds of respondents in the World Service poll said
India being an economic superpower was important.

But 55% thought caste issues were still a "barrier to social
harmony".

Visitors to BBC websites chose questions for the survey. A
nationally representative sample of 1,616 Indians was
interviewed in December.

The poll found that a majority (71%) are proud to be an Indian.

Most also thought it was important that India should be a
political (60%) and military (60%) superpower.

A majority were optimistic about many aspects of the modern
Indian state - more than half (55%) think the Indian justice
system treats rich and poor people fairly, a statistic which
some may find surprising given perceived failures in the police
and courts.

Nearly as many (52%) think being a woman is no barrier to
success any more.

And the survey found that twice as many people (48%) would
rather work for a private company than for the government (22%).

But on other topics respondents were less positive.
Forty-seven percent agreed that "corruption is a fact of life
which we should accept as the price of doing business in today's
world", although younger people were less tolerant of corruption
than older people.

And if Indians are agreed on the need for India to be an
economic superpower, they are less sure they are seeing the
fruits of recent economic growth.

Asked whether India's economic growth over the past 10 years had
benefited them and their families directly, exactly the same
proportion (45%) said that it had, as disagreed.

One in two (50%) felt that "people in India don't take their
religion seriously enough", while two in five (40%) believed
that "young people have lost touch with their heritage and
traditions".

In total 1,616 citizens in India were interviewed between 5-15
December 2006.

Polling was conducted for the BBC World Service by the
international polling firm GlobeScan and its research partner in
India. The margin of error is +/-2.5.

Technorati tags: India, Bharat, poll, Pride, Bharath, positive, Great india, Indian, hindustan, proud

SHILPA SHETTY Wins the Rality Games Show Big Brother in UK- So What?? Feb 1

2007-02-04T07:24:00.000-08:00

SHILPA SHETTY Wins the Rality Games Show Big Brother in UK- So Whar??

Ater all the hullabaloo, Shilpa Shetty finally won the reality show.--Big Brother" which ended couple days ago

Afterall the British ae known for their "proper conduct" or hypocrisy if you call it. So it would "not be Proper Old boy" if Shilpa an actress from India were to lose
Racism is well prevalent in Britan- which enslaved a great part of the worlds population and perpetuated them often by policies which has continued tio wreck havoc like in Palstine; Like in Iraq- Kuwait ; Like in India- Pakistan etc

Funnily Shipa did acquit herself well and also by taking the High Road- which meant the the other contestant Ms Goody and the latent racis of UK were brought to shame

T he underclass of Britan- poorly educated, working class people and their attitudes was exposed during the Reality Show- in a country which still retains a Monarchy with all the "perks".

Good thinking people all races joined hands to condemn and make sure that a searchlight is turned on such tendencies and practices. Hopefully, Britan will followup and address a social malady in its upbringing

Tags:

Racism, British, Britain, Bollywood, big Brother, Attitude, Anti Racism

Technorati:

Racism, British, Britain, Bollywood, big Brother, Attitude, Anti Racism

IndiaCricket needs lots of hel[ in Batting (first) and then on Player Attitude Feb 1

2007-02-04T07:18:00.000-08:00

India Cricket needs lots of help in Batting (first) and then on Player Attitude

Work on the batting weakness of Indian batsmen!!

NOTE: Mumbai in Ranji Semifinal had 0 runs on board with 5 wickets lost !!!
Yes 0/5 just last week- and this is probably the BEST Indian domestic team.

If they cannot play Indian pace bowlers on a good pace track- lots of work is needed from ground up!!!

It always is the case when seasoned batsmen throw away their wickets also called a a Front order Meltdown and the tail enders have to bat as wella s bowl

This happened many times recently- Hope people have a good memory.

Its amazing ho w one victory against an overwhelmed and uninterested team like West Indies has a way of changing public perception and opinion overnight!

Even Rahul Dravid's footwork was easily exploited and the WALL was no more impregnable

Sachin Tendulkars woes and fight with his fine form was too evident - although he scored steadily at an average of 30 runs plus- something people lost sight of- as they wanted Tendulkar of old to completely dominate

Sehwag's woes and inadequacies were easy for opposing coaches and bowlers to exploit once they analyzed his game and Sehwag himself lost a fraction of his reaction time and eye hand coordination.

The Mumbai Ranji trophy teams woeful batting against Indian pace bowlers in domestic front tells you of a mor hidden problem in Indian cricket- which HAS TO BE ADDDRESSED

<>Tags: Sri Lanka, West Indies, Bowling, World Cup, India, Cricket, player attitude, Coaching, Batting

technorati: Sri Lanka, West Indies, Bowling, World Cup, India, Cricket, player attitude, Coaching, Batting

Feb 1- Indian Cricket- Messing with Dinesh Karthik -a la Pathan & Kaif ~

2007-02-04T07:07:00.000-08:00

Feb 1- Indian Cricket- Messing with Dinesh Karthik -a la Pathan & Kaif

Messing with Dinesh Karthik- Selectors haven't learned much.

Included as a opener Karthik performed well. Promptly he was sent down the order- where again he came to rescue after a dramatic top order meltdown. Now again he is to be shifted to 1 down position and "rested"

Believe me they messed up Kaif and Pathan this way recently and it also did not help Sehwag or Tendulkar either

When will the selectors learn to make sure the batsmen are well trained and well prepared!! Rather than going onm reputation a or the idiosyncrasies of the selectors and coaches!

Now we have Uthappa in the middle as well as opening and Wasim Jaffer a double centurion and recently - no longer in the squad ( maybe Jaffer needed a bit of reeducation camp as did Sehwag) but how abt concentrating on a nucleus- which we apparently do not have and getting fundas of the game right

In modern cricket its clear that opposing bowlers and coaches have made it a science to analyze videos and exploit weaknesses eg Dhoni; Sehwag Ganguly and even Tendulkar in recent times.

ow that players with back to the walls have been given one more chance- if thy succeed and they did like Uthappa and Yuvraj ( in fielding) demonstrating that he is fit and raring to go....where does that leave the Karthiks, Kaifs and others who had plenty of help from the selectors to mess up their concentration and game without being tended, nurtured and working on their weakness

Remember ONE VICTORY may change public opinion (for a short while) but Selectors and others would have a longer memory while looking at current form

Lets get on with it

No more games ( pun intended) Get the best selection and keep it intact with a plan not any arbitrary fashion.

Work on the batting weakness of Indian batsmen**

NOTE: Mumbai in Ranji Semifinal had 0 runs on board with 5 wickets lost Yes 0/5 just last week- and this is probably the BEST Indian domestic team.

If they cannot play Indian pace bowlers on a goof pace track- lots of work is needed from ground up!!!

World Cup , West Indies, Batting India, Sri Lanka, Cricket, India Cricket, Selectors Dont mess with In form players like Dinesh Karthik

Technorati:

World Cup , West Indies, Batting India, Sri Lanka, Cricket, India Cricket, Selectors Dont mess with In form players like Dinesh Karthik

2007-01-29T17:56:00.000-08:00

Jan 26 Padma Awards for year 2007 India Complete List ~ Sam Rao Indian-American Org

No Bharat ratna awarded again this year. Its always fun to spot people who you think you know about on the list ( whether you think they deserve itor not)- Sort of a General Knowledge test.

Unfortunately, always underscored in this so-called General knowledge exercise is hoe awfully inadequate our iknowledge is about India’s own fantastic literature in regional languages and the arts scene.

This is but another glaringly! is our ingrained colonial and British slave legacy.

Do what most of us do to feel better- looks for the Sportsman or sportswoman awardees and the Music and Movie names which most can recognize and possibly popular literature ;-0

And IN any case, Always salute the Armed Forces folks and also the unsung heroes- the community activists; civil servants etc.

Each recipient has a great legacy- else would not have made the list any way. So Comgrats

A total of 121 recipients awarded this year

Padma Vibhushan Total recipients: 10

1. Prof. (Dr.) Balu Sankaran (Medicine) Delhi.
2. Fali Sam Nariman (Public Affairs) Delhi.
3. Khushwant Singh (Literature and Education) Delhi.
4. N.N. Vohra (Civil Service) Haryana.
5. Naresh Chandra (Civil Service) Delhi.
6. Justice (Retd.) Prafullachandra Natwarlal Bhagwati (Public Affairs) Delhi.
7. Late Shri Raja Rao (Posthumous) (Literature and Education) USA.
8. Dr. Raja Jesudoss Chelliah (Public Affairs) Tamil Nadu.
9. Sudarshan Erinackal Chandy George (Science and Engineering) USA.
10. Dr. Venkataraman Krishnamurthy (Civil Service) Delhi.

Padma Bhushan Total recipients: 32

11. Prof. Bhikhu Parekh (Literature and Education) United Kingdom.
12. Late Shri Chandra Prasad Saikia (Posthumous) (Literature and Education) Assam.
13. Smt. Ela Gandhi ( Public Affairs) South Africa.
14. Rev Father Gabriel (Literature and Education) Kerala.
15. Gopaldas Neeraj (Literature and Education) Uttar Pradesh.
16. Dr. Gurcharan Singh Kalkat (Science and Engineering) Chandigarh.
17. Ms. Indra Nooyi (Trade and Industry) USA.
18. Jamshed J. Irani (Trade and Industry) Maharashtra.
19. Javed Jan Nisaar Akhtar (Literature and Education) Maharashtra.
20. Prof. Jeffrey D. Sachs (Literature and Education) USA.
21. Justice K.T. Thomas (Public Affairs) Kerala.
22. Kavalam Narayan Panikkar (Art) Kerala.
23. Captain L.Z. Sailo (Literature and Education) Mizoram.
24. Dr. (Smt.) Manju Sharma (Science and Engineering) Delhi.
25. Dr. N. Mahalingam (Trade and Industry) Tamil Nadu.
26. O. Suzuki (Trade and Industry) Japan.
27. Dr. Prithipal Singh Maini (Medicine) Delhi.
28. Pandit Rajan Misra (Art) Delhi.
29. Ramankutty Nair (Art) Kerala.
30. Pandit Sajan Misra (Art) Delhi.
31. Dr. Saroj Ghose (Science and Engineering) West Bengal.
32. Dr. Shiv Kumar Sarin (Medicine) Delhi.
33. Prof. (Vaidya) Shriram Sharma (Medicine) Maharashtra.
34. Late Somnath Hore (Posthumous) (Art) West Bengal.
35. Sunil Bharti Mittal (Trade and Industry) Delhi.
36. Syed Haider Raza (Art) France
37. Hakim Syed Mohammad Sharfuddin Quadri (Medicine) West Bengal.
38. Prof. T.N. Srinivasan (Literature and Education) USA.
39. Prof. Tapan Ray Chaudhuri (Literature and Education) United Kingdom.
40. Tyeb Mehta (Art) Maharashtra.
41. Dr. (Smt.) V. Mohini Giri (Social Work) Delhi.
42. Dr. Vilayanur Ramachandaran (Science and Engineering) USA.

Padma Shri Total recipients: 79

43. A. Sivasailam (Trade and Industry) Tamil Nadu.
44. Prof. (Dr.) Adya Prasad Mishra (Literature and Education) Uttar Pradesh.
45. Amitav Ghosh (Literature and Education) USA.
46. Prof. Ananda M. Chakrabarty (Science and Engineering) USA.
47. Dr. (Smt.) Ananda Shankar Jayant (Art) Andhra Pradesh.
48. Prof. (Dr.) Anoop Misra (Medicine) Delhi.
49. Dr. Ashok Kumar Hemal (Medicine) Delhi.
50. Astad Aderbad Deboo (Art) Maharashtra.
51. Dr. Atul Kumar (Medicine) Delhi.
52. Dr. B. Paul Thaliath (Medicine) Uttar Pradesh.
53. Dr. Bakul Harshadrai Dholakia (Literature and Education) Gujarat.
54. Dr. Balbir Singh (Medicine) Delhi.
55. Dr. Baldev Raj (Science and Engineering) Tamil Nadu.
56. Bharath Balachandra Menon (Art) Kerala.
57. Late Prof. Devindra Rahinwal (Posthumous) (Social Work) Uttaranchal.
58. Prof. (Dr.) Dilip K. Biswas (Science and Engineering) Delhi.
59. Gajendra Narayan Singh (Art) Bihar.
60. Geeta Chandran (Art) Delhi.
61. Giriraj Kishore (Literature and Education) Uttar Pradesh.
62. Rajmata Goverdan Kumarri (Art) Gujarat.
63. Prof. (Dr.) Harpinder Singh Chawla (Medicine) Chandigarh.
64. Jeev Milkha Singh (Sports) Punjab.
65. Dr. K.R. Palaniswamy (Medicine) Tamil Nadu.
66. Khalid Zaheer (Social Work) Uttaranchal.
67. Prof. (Dr.) Kharak Singh Valdiya (Science and Engineering) Karnataka.
68. Kiran Karnik (Science and Engineering) Delhi.
69. Ms. Koneru Humpy (Sports) Andhra Pradesh.
70. Dr. Lalit Pande (Environment Protection) Uttaranchal.
71. Louis Remo Fernandes (Art) Goa.
72. Dr. M. Mohan Babu (Art) Andhra Pradesh.
73. Dr. Mahadev Prasad Pandey (Literature and Education) Chhattisgarh.
74. Dr. Mahipal S. Sachdev (Medicine) Delhi.
75. Dr. Manjunath Cholenahally Nanjappa (Medicine) Karnataka.
76. Dr. Mayilvahanan Natarajan (Medicine) Tamil Nadu.
77. Ms. Meenakshi Gopinath (Literature and Education) Delhi.
78. Ms. Miriam L'vovna Salganik (Literature and Education) Russia.
79. Dr. Mohsin Wali (Medicine) Delhi.
80. Mujtaba Hussain (Literature and Education) Andhra Pradesh.
81. Prof. Mushirul Hassan (Literature and Education) Delhi.
82. Ms. Naina Lal Kidwai (Trade and Industry) Maharashtra.
83. Prof. (Dr.) Narmada Prasad Gupta (Medicine) Delhi.
84. Smt. Neelamani Devi (Art) Manipur.
85. P. Gopinathan (Art) Kerala.
86. P.R. Thilagam (Art) Tamil Nadu.
87. Pannuru Sripathy (Art) Andhra Pradesh.
88. Prof. (Dr.) Perumalsamy Namperumalsamy (Medicine) Tamil Nadu.
89. Prof. (Smt.) Pratibha Ray (Literature and Education) Orissa.
90. Smt. Pushpa Hans (Art) Delhi.
91. Rabinder Gokaldas Ahuja (Sea Cadet Corps Management) Maharashtra.
92. Rajinder Gupta (Trade and Industry) Punjab.
93. Dr. Ravi Narayan Bastia (Science and Engineering) Maharashtra.
94. Late Shri Ravindra Dayal (Literature & Education) Delhi.
95. Prof. Rostislav Borisovich Rybakov (Literature and Education) Russia.
96. Ms. Runa Banerjee (Social Work) Uttar Pradesh.
97. S. Dhakshinamurthy Pillai (Art) Tamil Nadu.
98. Sister S.M. Cyril (Social Work) Ireland.
99. Smt. Shanti Hiranand (Art) Delhi.
100. Smt. Shashikala Jawalkar (Art) Maharashtra.
101. Prof. (Dr.) Shekhar Pathak (Literature and Education) Uttaranchal.
102. Dr. Sheo Bhagwan Tibrewal (Medicine) United Kingdom.
103. Sonam Skalzang (Art) Jammu & Kashmir.
104. Sonam Tshering Lepcha (Art) Sikkim.
105. Prof. Sudhir Kumar Sopory (Science and Engineering) Haryana.
106. Dr. Sukumar Azhikode (Literature and Education) Kerala.
107. Sushil Gupta (Social Work) Delhi.
108. Dr.(Ms.) Syeda Saiyidain Hameed (Public Affairs) Delhi.
109. T.S. Rangarajan alias Kavingar Vaali (Literature and Education) Tamil Nadu.
110. Ms. Tarla Dalal (Cookery) Maharashtra.
111. Ms. Teesta Setalvad (Public Affairs) Maharashtra.
112. Dr. (Smt.) Temsula Ao (Literature and Education) Assam.
113. Dr. Thanu Padmanabhan (Science and Engineering) Maharashtra.
114. Dr. Thekkethil Kochandy Alex (Science and Engineering) Karnataka.
115. Thingbaijam Babu Singh (Art) Manipur.
116. Lama Thupten Phuntsok (Social Work) Arunachal Pradesh.
117. Valayapatti A.R. Subramaniam (Art) Tamil Nadu.
118. Vijaydan Detha (Literature and Education) Rajasthan.
119. Vikram Seth (Literature and Education) United Kingdom.
120. Waman Thakre (Art) Madhya Pradesh.
121. Dr. Yusufkhan Mohamadkhan Pathan (Literature and Education) Maharashtra.

Technorati Tags: Complete list of Padma Awards 2007,India Padma Shri, Padma Shree, Republic Day, Padma Bhushan, Abdul Kalam, Vibhushan

Aishwariya Rai may be "Domesticated" BUt Definitely NOTT "homely" ~ Indian-AmericanOrg Sam Rao Jan 28

2007-01-29T17:47:00.000-08:00

Aishwariya Rai may be Domesticated but Def NOT Homely!! Indian-American Org Sam Rao Jan 27

Using HindEnglish, People have started calling Aishwariya Rai as "Domesticated"

<>
Amitabh Bachchan has been also quoted as calling her domesticaled which presume is a Hindi to English transliteration of Gharelu. <>

Well “Domesticated” seems reserved for cattle and is sounds icky being used for a modern emancipated independent woman, <>

Now one more glaring HindEnglish word often used is "Homely".

Well Aishwariya Rai is definitely NOT homely

Umm ! Homely means “kind of Ugly”...... again many Indian folks especially “Bhaiyyas”- ie North Indians transliterate Gharelu as Homely ! and that is wrong

Definitely Aishwariya ain't Homely!

All this in the upcoming marraige of Amitabhs son Abhisekh to Aiswariya Rai ( which BT was timed for the release of their latest movie The Guru ;-)

Tags: Aishwariya, Bachchan, Rai, Amitabh, bollywood, Hindi, movies, Bachchan

OP Nayyar Bollywood hind Music Genus Remembered ~ Indian-AmericanOrg Sam Rao

2007-01-29T17:38:00.000-08:00

Jan 27 OP NAYYAR Musical Genius Remembered-Short list of personal Favorites ~Musical Genius of Bollywood Hindi Music
Omkar Prasad Nayyar was the only major composer who didnot compose for Lata Mangeshkar nand still had evergreen hits and classic songs- which tells a testament of his genius

Classicas like Reshmi salwar kurta jaalidar, and Yun toh hamne Lakh Haseen and the Maang ke saath tumhar

Nayyar was born in Lahore in 1926, first music in Kaneez (1949). And later along with D Pancholi his debut film, Aasmaan (1952), for which he composed the Geeta Dutt ‘s Dekho jaadoo bhare more nain.

Along with Guru Dutt Aar Paar (1954) - Yeh lo main haari Pia followed by classics in Mr & Mrs 55 (1955) and CID (1956). with Asha Bhosle and Shamshad Begum

The famous Nayyar-Asha team started in 1957 with classics like Naya Daur – which still gets me dancing!! Nayyar won the Best Music Director Award for Naya Daur starring Dilip Kumar and Vyhyanthimala.

Other superb music forfilms were Tumsa Nahin Dekha, Sone Ki Chidiya, Phagun, HowrahBridge and Ragini.

Teaming up with JoyMukherji-Sadhana – who made the hair bangs famous in India movies like Ek Musafir Ek Haseena (1962) Phir Wohi Dil Laya Hoon (1963), Kashmir Ki Kali (1964) and Mere Sanam (1965) followed

With Mohammed Rafi in Baharen Phir Bhi Aayengi and softer song Aapke haseen rukh pe , and Nayyar also composed for Mukesh with perennial classical in all genres (probably because of the ease of singing for karaoke etc) like the famous Chal Akela, Chal Akela

Nayyar also composed songs for singers Mahendra Kappor and Kishore although not as many.

In the early 1900's Mayyar made a surprise comeback with ZID and the Salman Khan-Karishma Kapoor starrer Nishchay

RIP ( Rest In Peace) Nayyar saab you have given Millions of people fantastic memories with your creations and brought smiles to the faces of Millions- What else can one expect as a legacy

SHORT LIST OF SONGS
Jaaiye aap kahan jaayenge Mere Sanam Asha Bhonsle

Chayene se hamko kabhie Pran Jaaye Par Vachan Na Jaaye Asha Bhonsle

All songs in Naya Daur!!

Ek pardesi mera dil lay gaya Phagun Rafi-Asha

Bahut shukriya Ek Musafir Ek Hasina Rafi-Asha

Humdum mere Phir Wohi Dil Laya Hoon Rafi-Asha

Isharon isharon mein Kashmir Ki Kali Rafi-Asha
====
Asha Bhosle Solos

Aaiye meherban HowrahBridge

Piya piya na lage mora jiya Phagun

Balma khuli hawa mein Kashmir Ki Kali

Zara haule haule chalo Sawan Ki Ghata

Woh haseen dard de do Humsaaya

Aao huzoor tumko Kismet

Tags: OP Nayyar, Music, bollywood, Hindi, Asha Bhonsle, Geeta Dutt, Guru Dutt, Lata Mangeshkar, Evergreen hits Dilip Kumar

Technorati Tags: OP Nayyar, Music, bollywood, Hindi, Asha Bhonsle, Geeta Dutt, Guru Dutt, Lata Mangeshkar, Evergreen hits Dilip Kumar

Jan 11 US invades IRAN territory Today- an Under-reported story ~ Indian American Org Sam Rao

2007-01-12T06:21:00.000-08:00

Jan 11 US invades IRAN territory Today- an Under-reported story ~ Indian American Org Sam Rao
US troops stormed into an Iranian consulate in Kurdish part of Iraq and seized equipment, computers and personnel. about 6 people were detained as US troops reportedly entered the Consulate of Iran.
As is well known and accepted by International law, Consulates and Embassies etc are over in territory and diplomatic immunity extends to the countries' representatives & officials.

In a semantic sense, " the War of Terror" is something most sane people will agree with. However, in the name of the War on Terror, its amazing how international and domestic laws are being totally bypassed.

This act of entering a consulate is definitely an act of War against a sovereign nation.
The "bending of rules" for the war on terror against Al Qaeda- a non government, unofficial entity- doesnot apply as Iran is a Republic and a nation state.

Interesting that this news has been under-reported!

Tags: War, Iraq, Iran, Terror, US, Troops, Mid East, Civil Rights, liberty,Freedom, Kurd

technorati Tags: War, Iraq, Iran, Terror, US, Troops, Mid East, Civil Rights, liberty,Freedom, Kurd

TheSad Oddesy of Moh’D Kaif; Pathan and Vengsarkar! Indian_American Org Sam Rao Dec 30

2006-12-31T17:40:00.000-08:00

TheSad Oddesy of Moh’D Kaif; Pathan and Vengsarkar!

Indian_American Org Sam Rao Dec 30

Dec 20: The Oddessy of Moh’d Kaif; Irfan Pathan and Vengsarkar

The sad odessy of India’s cricketrs Kaif and Pathan is known to many fans. The role of India coach Greg Chappel also has been pointed at but to me equally culpable is the selection committe nd one of them more to blame is Dilip Vegsarkar- for his lack of understandingand pastlessons NOT learnt.

The eccentricities of the selectors and the coach ( Greg Chappel) has screwed up these two young players. and given their youth, the pressures of international cricketing and the demands of the sport itself has added to their misery and patchy form

Seems that everytime Kaif as in form- there was no place for him in the side. Even when he seemed to be stroking wellrecently- he was run out.

Kaif adds a dimesnsion of +20 runs in the field, patrolling deep as he is a good fielder. Even here hs was screwed with by bringing him in a close catching position- ( replacing Yuvraj) and screwing with his body and his concentration

With Yuvraj recovering, Raina and others favoring selection ( Think Venugopal Rao, Uttapa etc) Kaif may not see action in the Indian side anytime soon.

The Saga Or Irfan Pathan is sadder because everytime he was the cannon food for all the failures in Team India’s batting failures- including Sachin Tendulkars(!!)

Pathan opened Batting and Bowling, came in at different batting order and did as well as he possibly could and sometimes much better than expected.

It takes a lot out of a young player ( remember Pathan is only in his early 20’s) to assume such positions which veterans like Tendulkar, Sehwag and VVS, Ganguly could not navigate !

Added to the demands made on his body and mind as Irfan Pathan has to be up for facing top bowlers AND bowling to batsmen etc- it is a sad commentary when someone who got a HATRICK beginning on the yar had to be dropped end of year.

Bombayite Vegsarkar- in his days of starting out got plenty of chances as aat that time Bombay and West Zone was ascendant and selectors has almost a Zonal quota system( remember Mohinder Amrnath and Madan Lal both of North Zone messed with) while guys like Vegsarkar always got number of chances even when he showed mediocre performances

Definitely Vegsarkar had a great career and even wnt to captain India but the same Selector didnot even hark back to his own career to help these young cricketers through issues of confidence, form and consistency ( both of the players and the management)

Pathan will be back and hope that Vegsarkar makes it a point to bring this once spearhead of India’s pace attack with SreeSath and Munaf Patel.

Man, its even possible with Anil Kumble retiring- India will go with pacers as their strength and ONLY have change spin bowlers!!!! A total change of Team India’s complexion

Hope Team India ; Kaif and Pathan have a Happy 2007

Technorati Tags: Cricket, India, Bowling, Pathan, Kaif, South Asia, Indian-American, Sam Rao

Tags: Cricket, India, Bowling, Pathan, Kaif, South Asia, Indian-American, Sam Rao

9 Superb Sidewalk Drawings (Choose best)- Indian-American Sam Rao

2006-12-29T07:30:00.000-08:00

9 Superb Sidewalk Drawings (Choose best)- Indian-American Sam Rao

Dec 29: 9 Incredible Sidewalk Drawings CHOOSE BEST

WOW! BEst Sidewalk Drawings ever- Each is a flat drawing!

Taken from cross posting FunZone. Artists are varied but Julian Beever is credited

(These have been around for a while but were incredible hence posted)

Most of them are made by Julian Beever, great artist.

Tags: Drawing, street Art,Sidewalk. Creative, Graffiti, Artists, Indo-American, Indian-American, Asian American, Desi, Soth Asian, NRI, Vote, Contest

Technorati Tags: Drawing, street Art,Sidewalk. Creative, Graffiti, Artists, Indo-American, Indian-American, Asian American, Desi, Soth Asian, NRI , Vote, Contest

JAMES BROWN Free MP3 Concert- Indian-American.Org Sam rao Dec 26

2006-12-26T09:48:00.000-08:00

JAMES BROWN MP3 Free Concert- Indian-American.Org Sam Rao Dec 26

Tags: James Brown, Rock and Roll, R & B, Music, Soul, Indian-American, Indo-American, Asian Indian, Sam Rao Tag this

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Dec 26 Free MP3 JAMES BROWN Concert ~ Indian-American Org Sam Rao

The King of Soul aka The Godfather of Soul passed away during the Christmas holidays. The man with lightning feet who inspired millions ( yes millions) of would be performers ans well as accomplished performers like Mick Jagger and Michael Jackson and Prince as well as entire music genres had a WORLD WIDE Following.
James Brown had a career spanning the decades from the 1960’s till present, and still evoked a smile and uplifted spirits when his songs were heard or when his songs were “borrowed” by musicians ALL OVER THE WORLD- including many Indian composers- especially digital samples and riffs of his music
His energy was infectious and raw- and always uplifting, as James Brown gave a 100% in his concerts. Brown lost 2 pounds EVERY concert he performed with his trade mark moves and sweating because of the high energy performances.
For people who may not realize the legacy of JAMES BROWN-
James Brown career was on upswing in the 60’s and he was a vocal spokeperson and performer for Civil rights and the poor.
He stamped an entire class genre of music ie Funk which emerged from a R&B style ( Rythym & Blues) and percolated to Rock & Roll including the performances of Rolling stones, 80’s style popularized by Michael Jackson and Prince and liberally borrowed by others including Hip Hop and Rap!
Rap style of music also owes a lot to James Brown, whose vocal contribution to music often were primal screams and rythmic vocal cadences
James Brown also performed at the beginning of the epic Heavyweight fight i Zaire, Africa between Muhammed Ali and George Foreman, a scene which was repeated (fFor readers who are younger), in the boxing bout in the movie ROCKY ( (Slysvester Stallone) ‘Living in America’ . This was one his more recent hits which garnered him awards among many awards in his career.
James Brown was inducted in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame-US (1986); Received Lifetime Grammy award (1992); Lifetime Award R& B Music (2000) and prestigious Honor by the Kennedy Center ( 2003)- FYI This year conductor Zubin Mehta was awarded the honor.

List of his (trademark and good ) songs are exhaustive but a few are

Please Please Please (1956)
Pap’s got a Brand New Bag ( 1965)
I got you- I feel Good ( 1965)- Something many, many will recognize!)

LIVE CONCERT Recording in New York- Courtesy of NPR ( National Public Radio)- all rights reserved by NPR and available at www.npr.com
Live Recording Dec2005 in NYC ( abt 80 mins)
Long Live the king! Rest in Peace RIP

http://anon.npr-mp3.speedera.net/anon.npr-mp3/asc/live/20051228_asc_jbrownfull.mp3

Tags: James Brown, Rock and Roll, R & B, Music, Soul, Indian-American, Indo-American, Asian Indian, Sam Rao

Technorati Tags: James Brown, Rock and Roll, R & B, Music, Soul, Indian-American, Indo-American, Asian Indian, Sam Rao

Sreesanth Uderwear Fine and booty Dance Comments- Indian-American Org Sam Rao Dec 21

2006-12-21T06:18:00.000-08:00

Sreesanths Underwear fine & Booty Dance Comment- Indian-American Org Sam Rao Dec 21

Dec 21: Sreesanths Underwear fine Booty Dance
Perhaps befitting the role of authorities in sports, the ICC has fined Team India cricket player Sreesanth 30% of his match fee and warned him.
Not because of his booty dance on field but because of his underwear (20%) and His running towards a batsmen who he had just dismissed (10%)
Seems by rule, the players can only wear certain sponsors logo and t-shirts and even underwear!
So Sreesanth was found wearing the wrong Color and Wrong-Labeled shirt and asked to take it off.
Sreesanth complied and wore his shirt (black) UNDER his sporting shirt but the Underwear was Visible especially the Logo… so as the saying goes, ” He should have known better”-so its ends up with Sreesanth being fined 20% of his match fee

In MORE interesting developments, Sreesantha now FAMOUS BOOTY DANCE has received comments from all quarters- mostly bemused, supportive and some Toilet humor.

CommentatorsRavi Shashtri & Sunil Gavaskar’s comments in original video are priceless too
Vide 1) is the one I caught on YouTube. NOTE The author/director is Someone ELSE and Fair warning about the “adult” content ( Hope that makes you look :-0)

Watch video of “Sreesath’s Gand Me Danda dance set to Music
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_9rl_sKD-o

Watch ORIGINAL Video of “Sreesanth doing
the “Cowboy Break Dance- Malaylee Indian style!!
Click Here

Talking about Toilet Humor, comparisons to Pakistani cricket star Javed Mianded have been made to Sreesanth’s antics on filed. Even Kapil Dev and Najjot Sidhu (yes the convicetd one) hav e weighed in- advising Sreesantha NOT to End up Javed Miandad way.
Pakistan’s Javed Miandad was a master at Sledging and Gully cricket tactics, constantly needling opposing players but did back up his talk with his walk- for the most of his career

Tags: Sreesanth, Cricket, India, South Africa, Bowling, Sports

Technorati Tags: Sreesanth, Cricket, India, South Africa, Bowling, Sports

My resume says “Awarded Time Magazine Person of the Year 2006- Sam Rao Indian-American Org

2006-12-18T10:55:00.000-08:00

Dec 16: Sam Rao is the TIME MAGAZINE PERSON OF THE YEAR 2006
- ( at least one of them ) :-0
Well with great sincerety an d humility :-0 , I can announce and publish the fact
- I, Sam Rao, am THE PERSON OF THE YAR oof TIME MAGAZINE 2006!!!
After all ONLY about a million people like me who maintain content on Websites and Blogs and Podcasts
( I do all of the above) :-0 were Awarded the Honor and title by Time Magazine for 2006! :-0

Yes My resume / vita/ bio will now Proudly say ” I was Awarded the Time Man of the Year in the year 2006″ and i wont be lying!

PS: This comes close on the heels of a HIND RATTAN award I received last year ;-)- this for real!!

Tags: News, Time Magazine, Award, India, Indian-merican, South Asian, NRI

Technorati Tags: News, Time Magazine, Award, India, Indian-merican, South Asian, NRI

Way to go India Cricket! Sreesanth’s Jigs & Antics Indian-American Org Sam Rao Dec 18

2006-12-18T10:53:00.000-08:00

Dec 18, 2006 Historic win for Indian Cricket Team in South Africa
SREESANTH’s Celebrates a Challenge by Andre Nel by htiing a Huge Six and then “Cowboy Break dancing”- Malayalee Indian Style!!

Watch Video of “SreeSanth doing the “Cowboy Break Dance- Malaylee Indian style!!
Click Here
Ravi Shashtri & Sunil Commentators Gavaskar’s comments are priceless too

After 14 years, the Indian Cricket team has won overseas on South African soil. This follows a historic win in West Indies a few months ago AND the drubbing in South Africa that India took in the One Day Cricket losing 4-0
Perhaps the South Africans (Proteas) were over confident and it helped that the Indian team was more focussed- well they better be!
Anyway, the more purposeful Indian team was led by Sreesanth the 22 year old eccentric pace bowler who muuters to himself constantly and often other players take umbrage with this… resulting in a constant play of words!!
Independently, South African bowler Andre Nels is known all over the world for his Outspoken emarks and actions on the field- called ‘Sledging’.
This time it worled in Sreeanth’s favor- as Sreesanth ran through the South African side and helped end their first innings for a mere 84 runs. In reply India scored over
Captain Rahul Dravid and teammates- Hope you can keep the momentum up and dtay focussed on and off the field.

Tags: India, Cricket, Soth Africa, Sreesanth, Bowling, Indian-American, Indo-American, NRI, USA

Technorati Tags: Tags: India, Cricket, Soth Africa, Sreesanth, Bowling, Indian-American, Indo-American, NRI, USA

Great Day for Indian-Americans! SUNITA PANDYA WILLIAMS NASA Astronaut IndianAmericanOrg Blog Sam Rao Dec 10

2006-12-13T15:23:00.000-08:00

Great Day for Indian-Americans! SUNITA PANDYA WILLIAMS NASA Astronaut IndianAmericanOrg Blog Sam Rao

December 11th, 2006 by desivoxpopulis
www.indian-american.org

Dec 10, 2006
Great day for Indian-Americans as SUNITA PANDYA WILLIAMS- the 2nd Indian American is part of the NASA Shuttle Crew STS 116
After Conmmander KALPANA CHAWLA, SUNITA PANDYA WILIAMS represents The Indian American community proudly and the Whole World is proud of her achievement.
I met KALPANA CHAWLA in 1999 when I hosted her community reception in Santa Clara, CA.- after her maiden voyage on the space shuttle.
Surprisingly, she revealed that NO Indian American organization had hosted her - inspite of the dozens of Parades and functions held at a drop of a hat.

ASIAN WEEK STORY abt KALANA CHAWLA
http://www.asianweek.com/2003_02_07/news_firstindian.html

KALPANA CHAWLA was a heroine and so is SUNITA WILLIAMS. Hopefully, we alla ccord her a much better Welcome and salute her!!!

Sunita Pandya Williams

Indian American Flight Engineer SpecialistSUNITA WILLIAMS is scheduled to spend upto 6 months in Space abroad the Int’l Space Station

Sunita Pandya Williams was born in Euclid, Ohio to Deepak and bonnie Pandya and moved to Needham, MA which is her hometown. She is married to Michael J. William.
Sunita was born on September 19, 1965 s. and has a B.S. (Physcal Science)- U.S. Naval Academy 1987; M.S. Engg- Florida inst tech, 1995
She served in the US Navy during Desert Shield and Provide Comfort as well as relief ops in Hurricane Andrew (Florida). She was awarded teh Navy Commendation Medal (2), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal and various other service awards.
She has logged over 2770 flight hours in more than 30 different aircraft. She also worked in Moscow with the Russian Space Agency on the Russian contribution to the International Space Station (ISS) and with the first Expedition Crew to the ISS
GREAT REPRESENTATIVE OF THE INDIAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY- LIKE KALPANA CHAWLA!
CONGRATULATE NASA SHUTTLE CREW STS 116 ON DISCOVERY SHUTTLE www.indian-american.org

Technorati Tags: NASA, Space, Sunita, Williams, Indo-American, Asian, Asian Indian, USA, India, South Asian, NRI, Sam Rao

Tags: NASA, Space, Sunita, Williams, Indo-American, Asian, Asian Indian, USA, India, South Asian, NRI, Sam Rao

2006-12-13T15:22:00.000-08:00

Anu Natarajan Swearing-In Ceremony as 1st Indian American City Official IndianAmerican Org Sam rao

December 11th, 2006 by desivoxpopulis
www.indian-american.or

DEC 5: INAUGRATION of ANU Natarajan- 1st indian-American Elected to City Fremont Council

Anu Natarajan represents the city of Fremont population 210,000 in Sf Bay area- with about 25,000 Indian-Americans or Indo-Americans or Asian Indians. Fremont is the home to also about 25,000 Afghani Americans. Taking into account Chinese, Filipino Americans etc the poulations is 45% Asian. Along with Natarajan on the Council sits Steve Cho- a Chinese American- making Asian representation a neat 40%

CLICK FOR MORE IMAGES

The Best part was that she managed to get ALL Factions of the Indian-American community to celebrate her historic victory TOGETHER This is the FIRST Time that an Indian-American has been ELECTED to City Council of a major city in SF Bay area. And a Strong Woman at that!!! Yay!!
www.indian-american.org

PODCAST

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Podcast Nov 12
ANU NATARAJAN (MP3)

PRINT INTERVIEW (Pdf) Nov 14

SEND CONGRATS TO ANU NATARAJAN- CLICK HER

Technorati Tags:Politics, Indo-American, Asian, Eections, Fremont, City Council,US, India, Indian American, NRI, Sam Rao

Tags: politics, Indo-American, Asian, Elections, Fremont, City Council, US, India, Indian American, NRI, Sam Rao

Dec 1 World AIDS Day- What are YOU doing about It? Indian American org Sam Rao

2006-12-13T15:21:00.000-08:00

Dec 1 World AIDS Day- What are YOU doing about It? Indian American org Sam Rao

December 2nd, 2006 by desivoxpopulis

Tags: India, Indian, Indian-American, AIDS, South Aisan, Indian American, Sam RAo Blog, Tag thi
www.indian-american.org

DEC 1
World AIDS Day DEC 1st- What are YOU doing About it??
The theme for World AIDS Day 2006 is Accountability. This is the 25th Anniversary after AIDS was “officially” named as an Epidemic disease

According to UNAIDS- 39.5 Million Adults and children are living with AIDS

4.3 Million became infected in 2006 and 2.9 Million died world wide

Anti viral drugs can be accessed only by 20% infected population

First officially certified in 1981- over 25 Million have died of AIDS

Scientific Facts on AIDS Status & Challenges
( Source UN AIDS 2006

UN AIDS Org

Q: What Are YOU Doing About AIDS??

Boo!& BooHoo Another ABJECT SURRENDER- India Cricket team- Indian American org Blog Nov 27

2006-12-13T15:20:00.000-08:00

Boo!& BooHoo Another ABJECT SURRENDER- India Cricket team- Indian American org Blog

November 27th, 2006 by desivoxpopulis

NOV 26 Boo HOO! ANOTHER “ABJECT SURRENDER” By INDIA’s CRICKET TEAM- in SOUTH AFRICA
In OTHER SPORTS NEWS- CRICKET- “Once More “Abject Surrender” in 2nd One Day Match

The Indian Cricket Team in South Africa seems Undercooked, UnderPrepared and Quite Well Done already!
What was declared as Abject Surrender in South Africa after the capitulation in the first ODI… or More to it than meets the Eye??
The Indian Cricket team visiting South africa put on a pathetic dislay while losing by a HUGE margin in One day Cricket. This was soundly bythe media and public alike and eservedly so. And fo course many did speak about being a one time thing (!!) etc But Not quite!
Soon came the latest second ODI- which ended today Sunday nov 26th and South Africa did expose the flaws in all aspects of the Indian Cricket team….….. Basically Undercooked, Underprepared yet Pampered team at the whims of a Coach and Selection committee whch has crammed in a scedule barely fiving time for the cruiclkceters to relax, rehab from their individual nagging injuries.
The idea about “pay on performance” makes sense especially when Cricket garners all the lucrative commercial and advertising contracts- while other sports are awy behind! With Indian and the Indian Sub continent being one of the largest market and revenue producing nation, the impending trouble between the Int’l ICC and local Indina Cricketing Board will hopefully take into acount players welfare and scheduling issues- which seems to be affecting the Indian Cricket team more than others.
With India’s Cricket Coah Greg Chappel lauded when Indian was winning 5 day tests, the problems of the Indina team in playing the limited over One day cricket has again surfaced. Remember Pakistan tour esp ODI following Sri Lanka etc?
Click for Newletter
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Technorati Tags: India, Cricket, South Africs, Asian, Sports, Asian Indian, Indo American, South Asian, Desi, NRI,

Tags: India, Cricket, South Africs, Asian, Sports, Asian Indian, Indo American, South Asian, Desi, NRI,

WORLD BOXING CHAMPS-WOMEN- INDIA!!- Nov 25 Indian American org Sam Rao blog

2006-12-13T15:19:00.000-08:00

WORLD BOXING CHAMPS-WOMEN- INDIA!!- Nov 25 Indian American org Sam Rao blog

November 27th, 2006 by desivoxpopulis

NOV 26: WORLD CHAMP’s IN WOMEN’s BOXING- INDIA!! Surprise
Beating out Strong teams from Europe including Russia and Romania etc- INDIA emerged as the Team Champs in Womens World Cup Bocing ! With Four Gold, One Silver and Three Bronze medals!they beat Russia, several EU countries!!

Three Time WORLD CHAMP Ms MARY KOM of Manipur India & Teammates of TEAM INDIA WIN @ World Cup Womens Boxing 2006
On November 23- India’s Women Boxing team won Team Gold by beating out teams like Russia, Romania, Korea etc - powerhouses in Boxing! India’s final tally of four gold, one silver and three bronze out of 13 weight categories secured them the Title of Best team in Women’s Boxing!!
25-year-old Mary Kom (Three-peat Champ!!) beat Romanian Steluta Duta in the 46 kg for the Gold Medal as did Sarita Devi (52 kg), Ralte Jenny (63 kg) and Kozhummel Lekha (75 kg),a Silver for N Usha (57kg) and Bronze medals for Chhotu Laura (50 kg), Aruna Mishra (66 kg) and Renu (80kg).
Team India tallied 34 points and beat Russia by Six points! Yes India as Champs in Women’s Boxing!!
Of the thirteen countries weight classes, Russia won 3 Gold and 3 Silver and over all EU teams- which are traditionally regarded as the Best in the world- managed only Eight victories. North Korea claimed two Gold and 1 Bronze, while Canada, Turkey, Ireland and France claimed one Gold each in the 13 weight categories championship
READ MORETechnorati Tags:Boxing, Women, IWorld cup, Woman, ndia, Asian, Sports, ,Asian Indian, Indo American, South Asian, Women Desi, NRI,

Tags: Boxing, Women, World cup,woman, India, Asian, Sports, Badminton,Asian Indian, Indo American, South Asian, Women Desi, NRI,

Its SAINA this Time with SANIA- World Jr. Badminton Silver-Indian American Org

2006-12-13T15:17:00.000-08:00

Its SAINA this Time with SANIA- World Jr. Badminton Silver-Indian American Org

November 27th, 2006 by desivoxpopulis

NOV 25: ANOTHER WOMAN ON THE RISE In INDIA SPORTS- SAINA NEHWAl- Badminton
Similar in Spelling to Sania Mirza ( Indi’as top ranked Tennis Player), 16 year old Saina is th Ranked 27th in the World after getting a Silver at the World’s junior Badmintion

Great Strides considering that she started the year in 150th place and now is 27th!!
Saina,won the India international tournament in Mumbai before reaching the final of the World Junior Championship,losing to Chinese counterpart.Earlier she showed her brilliance by capturing a Bronze a the CommonWealth Games and she created history when she became the first Indian woman player to win a four-star badminton tournament,at the Philippines Open at Pasig City, Manila.
Next comes the Asian Games campaign in Doha. Way to Go Saina. We wish you All the Best!
Other Badminton rankings of India ( Men’s) : Chetan Anand 31; Anup Sridhar(National champ) 39; Nikhil Kanetkar 43; P Kashyap 46
READ MORE www.indian-america.org

Technorati Tags: India, Asian, Sports, Badminton,Asian Indian, Indo American, South Asian, Women Desi, NRI,

Tags: India, Asian, Sports, Badminton,Asian Indian, Indo American, South Asian, Women Desi, NRI,

Indian American Org Sam Rao Blog Nov 15 ANU NATARAJAN 1st Indian American City Councilmember Fremont

2006-12-13T15:15:00.000-08:00

Indian American Org Sam Rao Blog Nov 15 ANU NATARAJAN 1st Indian American City Councilmember Fremont

November 26th, 2006 by desivoxpopulis

Nov 15: US ELECTION 2006
NOV 15:ALL POLITICS IS LOCAL Join me in Congratulating ANU NATARAJAN - City Councilmember of Fremont in SF Bay Area, California. POD CAST and INTERVIEW Below
This is the FIRST Time that an Indian-American has been ELECTED to City Council of a major city in Sf Bay area. And a Strong Woman at that!!! Yay!!

PODCAST EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Podcast Nov 12
ANU NATARAJAN (MP3) PRINT INTERVIEW (Pdf) Nov 14
The Best part was ANU managed to forge a Broad based support spanning across ALL communities and ethnicities AND THE BEST PART- SHE MANAGED TO BRING ALL FACTIONS OF INDIAN-AMERICANS TO THE SAME ROOM! and be UNIFIED & SHOW SUPPORT!!! Me thinks - This is one of the best achievements I must say- along the lines of Assemblymember Upendra Chivakula of New Jersey!

HEAR EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Podcast of ANU NATARAJAN HERE

SEND CONGRATS TO ANU NATARAJAN- Go to www.indian-american.org
BLOGARCHIVES

Technorati Tags: India, Asian, Elections,Asian Indian, Indo American, South Asian, Democrats Desi, NRI, Congress

Tags: India, Asian, Elections, Saouth Asian, Indo American, Democrats Desi, NRI, Congress

Us Elections 2006 Indian American Org Sam Rao Blog May- November 10

2006-12-13T15:09:00.000-08:00

ndian American Org Sam Rao Blog May- November 10

November 26th, 2006 by desivoxpopulis

US ELECTIONS 2006: A Momentous decision indeed- as in any election. However, this mid term election was especially monumental as last two times, the US Elections were actually quite deadlocked and with controversy….. Remember 2000 with a tie for George Bush Jr and Al Gore Jr!! and them the Florida controversy and with Kerry and the rest… anyway, with the Theme this time being ” Its the War Stupid” - people clearly spoke AGAINST the Unilateralism of Dick Cheney, George Bush and Rumsfeld and its clear that DONALD RUMSFELD was left out to dry. About time too… Now I wonder how much of arrogance and spunk is left in the Bush Cheny admistration or should I say mean spiridtedness! for after al they have 2 more years to govern albeit with a Democratic controlled House & Senate.

CONGRATULATE THE INDIAN AMERICANS
WIN in 2006 ASSEMBLY and CONGRESS
Bobby Jindal R- Congress Louisiana
Satveer Chaoudhary D– State Senate– Minnesota
Kumar Barve- D- Assembly - Maryland
Swati Dandekar D- Assembly - Iowa
Nikki randhawa- R- Assembly - South Carolina
Jay Goyal- D- Assembly- Ohio
Raj Goyle- D- Assembly - Kansas-
and a few more in local races across the country

As one can tell overall with a Democratic Wave overwhelmed many Republicans especially who got crossover votes in the last two major elections….
Which brings us to WILL THE REAL DEMOCRAT STAND UP? and WHo are th Real Democrats and Their Platform? Kudos to Howard Dean and his forward loking DNC for bringing a consensus out of people but will policies also follow suit??
Good Luck Nancy Pelosi- The first Woman speaker of The House ( Ma is USA Behind the times) and Senator Harry Reid from Nevada and rest of the Gang and God Help US And US ALL!
READ MORE
Click for Newletter Technorati Tags :India, Asian, Elections, , Asian Indian,indo AmeircansDemocrats Desi, NRI, Congress

Ttags:India, Asian, Elections, Asian Indian, Indo Americans,Democrats Desi, NRI, Congress,

Sam Rao Blog Indian-American Org Blog

2006-11-11T18:53:00.000-08:00

Technorati Profile

Indian-American Org Sam Rao Blog May- Nov 2006 name the Baby elephant@ Houston Zoo

2006-11-04T08:57:00.000-08:00

Nov 3: Help Select the Name for Cute Male Baby Indian Elephant- Free Entry

Sundar or Janu ?? CLICK to Vote

NAME THAT BABY ELEPHANT
@ Houston Zoo Entries being Accepted.
The Cute Male Baby Elephant has 5 Choices-
2 Indian Names ( SUNDAR OR JANU)

US TROOPS RESPONSE TO John Kerry's remark about Uneducated US Troops

Indian-American Org Sam Rao Blog May- Nov 2006 Sulekha.Com gets $10 milllion from Venture Capital fund

2006-11-04T08:56:00.000-08:00

Nov2: Sulekha.Com gets $10 Milion from NorWest Venture Partners
Norwest Venture Partners (NVP) invested $10 million in Sulekha.com Inc., one of the ost visited Indian online social media The site caters to people of Indian origin and local commerce site for people in or from India.
NVP ‘s investment is Sulekha's first institutional round of funding. < style="font-family: helvetica,arial,sans-serif;">Sulekha.com has grow over the years offering a variety of interactive services in the areas of social media such as blogs, groups and networking and local commerce such as classifieds, yellow pages and events in 25 cities worldwide, including eight in India.
NVP said Sulekha.com has more than 2 million unique visitors to its site each month, and features over 10 million pages of content, almost all of it contributed by members.
.Sulekha.com plans to use the new capital to extend business development and marketing, primarily through alliances, and expand its service offerings into new vertical markets.
Serial entrepreneur Promod Haque, managing partner at NVP, has joined the Sulekha board of directors, as part f the deal.
BLOG ARCHIVES

Indian-American Org Sam Rao Blog Oct-Nov , 2006 Safe & dangerous city USA

2006-11-04T08:53:00.000-08:00

Oct 30- Top and bottom SAFEST Cities in the USA 2006 by FBI (caveat only cities which reported crime make the list)

FBI Nomenclature 1= SAFEST and LAST ( 371) = MOST DANGEROUS

SAFEST CITY

MOST DANGEROUS
CITY

NOTABLE CITY RANKINGS

<>1. Brick, N.J.
2. Amherst, N.Y.
3. Mission Viejo, Calif.
4. Newton, Mass.
5. Troy, Mich.
6. Colonie, N.Y.
7. Irvine, Calif.
8. Cary, N.C.
9. Greece, N.Y.
10. Coral Springs, Fla.

361. Richmond, Calif.
362. Gary, Ind.
363. Youngstown, Ohio
364. Oakland, Calif.
365. Cleveland
366. Birmingham, Ala.
367. Camden, N.J.
368. Compton, Calif.
369. Flint, Mich.
370. Detroit
371. St. Louis

For a complete List
CLICK HERE (Text doc)

23. Edison, N.J.
38. Sunnyvale, Calif.
50. Boca Raton, Fla.
51. Livermore, Calif.
53. Fremont, Calif.
56. Tracy, Calif.
57. Bellevue, Wash.
67. Santa Clara, Calif.
68. Daly City, Calif.
73. Alexandria, Va.
74. Virginia Beach, Va.
75. Ann Arbor, Mich.
112. San Jose, Calif.
113. Honolulu, Hawaii
132. Chesapeake, Va.

142. Concord, Calif.
145. New York City
158. Austin, Texas
162. Raleigh, N.C.
172. Lexington, Ky.
186. San Diego, Calif.
216. Louisville, Ky.
220. Spokane, Wash.
221. Reno, Nev.
247. Salt Lake City, Utah
248. Jacksonville, Fla.
249. Portland, Ore.
250. Los Angeles
262. Seattle
270. San Francisco
300. North Las Vegas, Nev.

302. Las Vegas, Nev.
303. Denver
314. Boston
316. Tampa, Fla.
317. Jersey City, N.J.
318. Milwaukee
319. Miami Beach, Fla.
320. Indianapolis, Ind.
321. Shreveport, La.
322. Sacramento, Calif.
325. Houston
336. Stockton, Calif.
343. Philadelphia
350. Newark, N.J.
353. Washington
354. Cincinnati
355. Atlanta

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Indian-American Org Sam Rao Blog May- OCt 2006 Jaswant singh heckled

2006-11-04T08:51:00.000-08:00

OCT 27: Ex Foreign Minister Jaswant Singh Heckled

Ex Foreign Minser Jaswant Singh, presumeably on his book promotion tour, was hecked and protested by a group of Sikh and other activists at UC Berkeley's International House.
While the Sikh group protested BJP's " allege interfenence in Sikh matters and repreented the Mann faction in Punjab India- others wanted to protest Gnocide in Gujarat- re: the communnal riots of 2002.

Some protested Sikh causes Some against Gujarat riots of 2002

Jaswant Singh Looks amused as Protestors are allowed to address audience

Indian-American Org Sam Rao Blog May- OCt 2006 Hijab wear Afghani shot dead

2006-11-04T08:48:00.000-08:00

Hijab wearing Afghani Woman shot Dead in Fremont SF Bay Area
A Hijab (head covering) wearing Afghani woman was shot dead in Fremont in broad daylight at abot 3PM.
Th motive is not clear but chillls has gone down the immigrant community and community at large.
First a killing in broad daylight is bad esp in a "safe city" like Fremont Second, if a Hate Crime- ALL Asian and Miidle Easterna and NOT JUST Muslim Women are targets.

As Indian Muslim women as wel as many other wear Hijabs. plus Amny Hindus, Sikhs wear Salwar Punjabi dress- with head covered.
It should be apparent to most people that the hate Crime perpertrators are really not the most knowlegeable- so they would easily "mistake" their targets.
This was clear at the Memorial service and also as many calls and community action to counter this has started taking pace
READ MORE

Alia Ansari Memorial, Fremont, CA

Indian-American Org Sam Rao Blog May- Oct 14, 2006 Sunnyvale Diwali

2006-11-04T08:47:00.000-08:00

OCT 27th Sunnyvale Diwali draws 10,000
Sunnyvale Diwali on Friday Oct 21 to Sunday Oct 23- drew about 10,000 .
Though the daytime activities were sparsely attended, attendance picked up each evening for the Bollywood music show.
Singer Debojit on Friday went well with audience tho' star Abhijeet was his arrogant self on Saturday and sang ONLY his won songs but redeemed himself with the audience by accepting requests etc and singing Old Kishore Kumar, Rafi favorites asw ell.

Unfortuneately, seem most of the NRI's with kids and ffamily continue to view the Bollywood dose including the Childrens programs- which has an overdose of Bollywood songs and dances- as the ONLY CULTURAL & HERITAGE FIX of INDIA.
Most almost 75% of the audience did not even bother to go to the Temple portion and were content to stay in the Mela and concert portion of the premises.
.
MORE IMAGES ( Click)

OCT 27: Spoony Singh- Hollywood Pioneer dies
Spoony Singh (83) died few days before his 84th birthday. Singh was the proud owner for over 40 years of the Hollywood Wax museum on Hollywood Blvd.The museum was open Feb 10, 1965 and remained an very popular tourist destination
Although peoples fascination with wax figures is sort of wierd but is accepted as normal because of museusms like Spoonys andd Madam Taussad's

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Indian-American Org Sam Rao Blog Oct 24, 2006

2006-11-04T08:45:00.001-08:00

OCT 24: India's Finance Misiter Chidambaram visits Silicon Valley followed by Ex Foreign Minister Jaswant Singh
Silicon Valley will see couple of powerful Indian politicians and lawmakers visit this weekend.

Current Finiace minister (before any reshuffle that may take place)- is in preset Cabinet and oversees the emergence of Indian as a potential Superpower in the near future.

The same week, Ex Foreign minister Jaswant Singh- will be making his rounds aswell- in time to promote his book- whch was a sunject of a small well planned "controversy".
Singh- who speaks in clipped British accented English- is known for his command of the klanguage and not much else- esp he is known to say a lot and not convey much. This wa pointed out in no uncertain terms bu the US officials- when important discussions were often siderailed by Mr Singh- who seemed to love his oen voice.
Fieldi ng a lot of flak from his own political party for never being elected (rather being appinted<>

LA Yoga Guru Bikram Choudhury fined $8000 by Los Angeles City
Bikram Choudhury- the LA Yoga Guru who specializes in teaching "HOT YOGA" was fined $8000 by Los Angeles City officials
The HOT Yoga teacher was convicted of Operating without a permit and Business licence and cited for a variety of violations in his studio. However, the lawyers of Chiudhury (Yoga Inc.) filed a "No-Contest" plea- where they accept the judgement/fine but without admission of guilt.
The settlement is for paying the fine of $8000 and all other charges were ropped.
Last reports indicate that Bikamji will move to Hawaii. Earlier he had reconted that LA officials had a "vendetta" against him
It may also be recalled that Bikram Chudhury- who has massed millions teaching Yoga to Wetserners and Hollywood celebrities etc- tried to "patent" and "copyright" 26 Asanas which he teaches. This was in an effirt to collect franchise fees from his diwnlie teachers of Bikram Hot Yoga. The arguements AGAINST Choudhury - taken up by seevral including Yoga Collectives was that one cant copyright a 5000 year old heritage ( DUH!!)
This case was also settled out of court. (Sorry Hawaii)
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Oct 18th- Mumbai Cricketer Wears West Indies Uniform
In case you didnt catch it- In India Cricket hstory was made when an severely under manned West Indies team used a LOCAL CRICKETER as a fielder for the West Indies Team!
In a rare incient, Mumbai wicketkeeper Vinayak Samant, donned the West Indies colors as a sustitute when 4 players were indisposed during the Australia vs West Indies Champions Trophy 2006 in India.
With Collymore back to W. Indies, Chandrapaul injured, Lara's back cramps- when Runako Norton wanted to go off field, W. Indies were left with only 10 players ( almost like Mumbai Gully Cricket- where we would use a "jack" or "Spare" or "Tapori" :-0

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Indian-American Org Sam Rao Blog Oct 7, 2006 Islamic Mosque open

2006-11-04T08:45:00.000-08:00

SUNDAY OCT 8th- ISLAMIC SOCIETY of EAST BAY ( ISEB) Holds Open House in Fremont and Santa Clara
In an effort to Engage and Educate the community at large, the ISEB Masjid (Sunni Muslims) in Fremont and Santa Clara held an open house. Reacting to the post 9/11 backlash and to dispel streotypes, the Muslim community in SF Bay area held Open House at two mosques in Santa Clara (Sat, Oct 7th)and Fremont ( Sun Oct. 8th), the ISEB Mosque in North Fremont is attended by majority of Muslims from India, although several others from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan and some African countries also attend

ISEB MOSQUE OPEN HOUSE FREMONT

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Indian-American Org Sam Rao Blog May- OCt 2006 GANDHI Day

2006-11-04T08:41:00.000-08:00

SEPT 30th GANDHI DAY-"Gandhi Giri" Alive & Well in SF Bay area
CLICK FOR MORE INFO. GRAND SUCCESS- Nearly 300 Attend ALL ETHNICITIES. ALL AGES ( 3 year old to 20 years to 69 years old!) Children, Adults, Parents All join in. "Gandhi Giri" Alive & Well in SF Bay area

MP3 INTERVIEWS- REACTION/COMMENTS- on "What Gandhi Means to me" - from Indian-Americans- SF BAY AREA

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Indian-American Org Sam Rao Blog May- June- Sept -Oct 7, 2006

2006-11-04T08:39:00.000-08:00

SEPT 23rd & OCT 7th Navratri Dandia Raas Garba- DANCE in SF Bay Area
In a testament to young adults and others "partying for a cuse" syndrome- there has been a proliferaton of Navratri celebrations by the Way of DANCE EVENT- Dandia Rass Garba...With every non profit/ India centric cause ready and eager to "celebrate" the onset of the Hidu ew Year of Diwali- the season for DANCE - EVENT of Dandia Raas Garba - which is primarily what most attendees "celebrate"

So starting Septb 16th- early for Navratri!!!- the leftist AI.D ( Association for India's development) LITERALLY JOINED THE BAND WAGION by hosting a Dandia Raas Garba - Next came Sankara Eye Foundation- the 3000 revelers at the Santa Clara Convention center for Sankara Eye Foundation on Sept 23 and Oct 7th as well In between came the VIBHA- a Childrens Rights group- at Palo Alto and San Jose and in between a host of others led by the local Gujarati Associations GCA and ICA and the jain community and each of the temples abt 6 of them hosting their own program.

Sankara Eye Foundation DANDIA 2006

3000 Dancers @ Santa Clara Conv Ctr

NOTE: VIBHA- comprised of mostly young IT folks and their patrons- who dont pretend to know much about the projects VIBHA supports or about India's Cilture & Heritage (Which is sad) are hosting a DISCO DANDIA this season so kudos for them a least being honest and raising funds for their pet cause that way.

COMMENT: The way things work in America, althoughreligious festivals are supposed to coincide with auspicious time and date - these are unfortunateky pre poned or postponed for convienience ... so that even events with religious significance suppose d to fall on Full moon (Purnima) end up being celebrated on Amavasyas (New Moon)- whic for the spiritually inclinded is a BIG NO! NO!! :-0 .....but methinks the NRI's dont KNOW or CARE beacuse these folks are as "Westernized" as an "Westerner" could ever hope to be (proably more so !)

LAST WORD: Samll Word of Advise- U can mess with mortals and get away with it BUT DONT mess with God :-0 (SR)

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Indian-American org Sam Rao Sept-Sept 30 2006

2006-11-04T08:33:00.000-08:00

The city of Fremont Celebrated its 50th Anniversary this year. Following a serieso f year long celebrations, on Sept 9th & 10th, Fremont threw itself a GRAND PARTY-FESTIVAl.
- Dont know if ALL the organizers anticipated the GRAND showing of MULTICULTURAL population of Fremont! The day was bright and the people were multi hued in every sense- pointing to the vibrant FUTURE of Fremont- which is already 55% Asians and other Ethnicities.....Somesee a Coorelation between THIS and that Fremont is in the TOP 10 of Livable Cities andTop Ten SAFEST as well!!
HANDS ACROSS THE LAKE ( photo below) drew abt 3,500 people and the 2 days fest included all variety of Music-Dance- Entertainment - Services and Educational faire.
See Below Indian-American Sikh offering of GHATKA- The Martial Arts of the Sikhs ( Photos Below)
Click on Images for more Images
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HINDU SANGAM 2006 De Anza College-Cupertino
The Hindu Sangam was attended by about 10,000 people. This One day event featured a host of activities including a 50 Booth Mela Festiaval
Perhaps the best part was the CHILDRENS THEME PAKE- Based on Hindu Mythological Characters and Offerings (PHOTOS)
-The attempt to have Seminars or Tracks was a fine attempt = though not as well attended as te te other "fun stuff".
-A special Prayer Fire Yagna ( Agni Yagna) fror the victims of the 9/11 terror incident was offered by eminently qulified priest from Seattle, Wa Dr DeekSheet (PHOTO)
Click on piture for MORE IMAGES

Indian-American Org Sam Rao Blog May- June- Sept 2006

2006-11-04T08:31:00.000-08:00

GANESHA UTSAV 2006 -Fremont- 200 Kids and their parents took part in Ganesh Pooja Prayers on Ganesha Utsav.
-Organized by the local HSS, the same program event was also organized in Cupertino (Qunlan Center) with almost 400 children and parents
-In Sunnyvale, Calif., another group SILICOON ANDHRA (www.siliconandhra.org) had about 50 chldren perfor the pooja AFTER the kids and parents actually made the Clay Ganesha idols. This interesting event was enjoyed by all the kids
SEE PHOTOS

SANKARA EYE FOUNDATION WALK Shoreline Park, Mt. View Aug 26, 2006
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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW MP 3 =Ms. SANIA MIRZA- Tennis #1 India World #40
MP3 file Click Here for Interview

14th Festival Of India 2006 Fremont CA Aug 12/13th MORE IMAGES- CLICK HERE

Indian-American Org Sam Rao Blog May- july 2006

2006-11-04T08:30:00.000-08:00

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
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Indian-AmericanOrg Blog Sam Rao May-Jan 2006

2006-11-04T08:25:00.000-08:00

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

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Indian-American.org Sam Rao Blog

2006-01-28T10:56:00.000-08:00

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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.

NonViolent Civil Rights Leader MLK Jr was inspired by M.K Gandhi

(From Archives)

While his anniversary was duly noted and appearances by politicians etc were seen- the 'Optional holiday' barely made much ripples in the community.
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.

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.
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".
"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."
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.
More on this later

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

DEC 26: CA Text Book Controversy on Distortions on Hinduism in 6th Grade Textbooks:
A lot has been written and done on the revisit and Edits to Historybooks prescribed to 6th Grade Social Science classes.
This time getting win of the issues, CA parents, activists and general population gt organized and made sure change were made.

Read deails in my article appering in the Indian Express-North American Edition Here
California Board Education to revise Hindu text in Sociial Sciences ( Pdf)
One of the beautiful letters- balanced and informative was by Hinduism Today by Sanyasin Arumugaswami
Read Here: Letter to California Board Education pdf

DEC 25: Merry Christmas- Happy Holidays and Happy New Year

Indian-American.org Sam Rao blog

2006-01-28T10:49:00.000-08:00

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LIST OF PADMA VIBHUSHAN; PADMA BHUSHAN; PADMA SHRI
Awardes on Jan 26, 2006-by India's Prez Abdul Kalam

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.

Indian-american.org

2005-09-15T09:29:00.000-07:00

SEPT 15: KATRINA AFTERMATH- Telling Comments
From SingaPore News- as quoted by NYTimes-Tom Friedman
-Sumiko Tan, Columnist - The Straits Times in Singapore,
"We were shocked at what we saw. Death and destruction from natural disaster is par for the course. But the pictures of dead people left uncollected on the streets, armed looters ransacking shops, survivors desperate to be rescued, racial divisions - these were truly out of sync with what we'd imagined the land of the free to be, even if we had encountered homelessness and violence on visits there. ... If America becomes so unglued when bad things happen in its own backyard, how can it fulfill its role as leader of the world?"<>

- Janadas Devan, Columnist- Straits Times "On How U.S. is changing."
"Today's conservatives," he wrote, "differ in one crucial aspect from yesterday's conservatives: the latter believed in small government, but believed, too, that a country ought to pay for all the government that it needed.
"The former believe in no government, and therefore conclude that there is no need for a country to pay for even the government that it does have. ... [But] it is not only government that doesn't show up when government is starved of resources and leached of all its meaning. Community doesn't show up either, sacrifice doesn't show up, pulling together doesn't show up, 'we're all in this together' doesn't show up."
SingaPore & Katrina-Tom Friedman-NYTimes
http://www.nytimes.com/2005/09/14/opinion/14friedman.html

SEPT 13; India's PM ManMohan Singh to Host Pakistan Prez Musharraf in USA on Sept 14:
A potential Far reaching summmit meeting of the two Neighbors - who will meet in USA and discuss a varietyyy of issue on Sept 14.- Hopefully will result in a better living for both neighbors and the world
While Pakistan has in the past has always wanted to internationalize Kashmir as an issue, Prez. Musharraf is at present in a different situation-with increased acceptance and scrutiny of the role his Govt. and ISI had played in fostering Taliban, Al Qaieda and Basically terrorists from The Jihadi factory of Madrasas (islamic schools) etc.
Very recently, Prez Musharraf has even accepted AQ Khan's role in Nuke Technology Transfer! However, Musharraf is Brilliant, Pragmatic and Practical politician and one has to see how well will Once again the "Tail wag the Dog".
It will be interesting to see how Pakistan will once again try to pull a surprise during negotiations and aftermath PR campaign.
Pakistan Foregn Minister Kasuri is on hand to drive home just about any propoganda point there is. While Peace is in the offing and Welcome with people of Pakistan and India
- Q: Will a Leopard be able to change its spots so soon?
Remember the same entourage (successfully) supported & navigated the PRE-Taliban ; DURING-Taliban and POSt-Taliban FACE of Pakistan!!

FATWA against Sania Mirza's Tennis Gear Dress Code : Lately some kook Muslim Cleric issued a Fatwa about SANIA being dressed "inappropriately" while playing Tennis.
The brilliant youngster Tennis player from India 18 year old Sania Mirza happens to be a Female Muslim Girl. Luckily she is born in India and proudly represents India- a secular Democracy with many a sane Muslim population.
One has to send a Clear message to these Islamic extremists that its hands off SANIA MIRZA.
Her whole Extended Indian and World Family totally support SANIA Mirza- a modern day Muslim woman who is a proud Indian and World Citizen first and who chooses to be a Muslim out of her choice and free will. No impositions and draconian decrees. No imposition of 16th Century Codes - especially in a Liberated and Cultured country like India and esp. in 21 st century.
One would also like to see lot of the Leading Muslim Orgaizations and Intellectuals to step forward and condemn this Fatwa warnings.
THIS IS THE TIME FOR RESPONSIBLE SANE MUSLIM LEADERS TO STAND UP AND TAKE A STANCE AGAINST THESE CLERIC RELICS!! Lets see some Guts

PREZ BUSH's REMARKS POST HURRICANE KATRINA "-GATE:"
(Said a a White House Press Conference today in DC:)
"And to the extent that the federal government didn't fully do its job right, I take responsibility. I want to know what went right and what went wrong,"
To which Deomcrat Senator Mary Landrieu ( LA)., said " Accountability at every level is critical, and leadership begins at the top."

SEPT 12,2005:LAURA BUSH Misses the POINT- on Charges of Racism about Slow response of Relief:
The Buck stops at the Prsesidents Desk. Esp. as He is responsible for Action of Policies and Underlings
Pres Bush is No Doubt a Caring person- as the First Lady attested- and who better than her to know....The PROBLEM is the Rank and File that we have to face from the Underlings eg in Republican Party OR The Southern Democrats etc.- which predoinate the Hurricane affected areas.
Sorry Laura- It will take time for people to realize that EVEN IF Evacuation Was ordered- many DID not have Computers to see the internet- Didnot have Cars to get out- Could not leave daily wage jobs AND There was no information about the imminent flooding ie Sirens- Loudspeakers etc- especially in poor areas- mostly Black but also poor white neighborhoods.
Read on about stories of Police Officers stopping Eveacuees at Gunpoint and basically reacting in a "Siege Mentality"- understandable to some extant - as there was no proper Comunication and information available.
The reason many minroities are uneasy about Conservatives esp Republicans ie Plain racist people among them- is the evidence that there are less than 5% of People of Color in that party esp leadership.
Colin Powell, Condi Rice take up the front face but in all the party cadre in Rank and file LOCAL Offices- one rarely sees people of Color- including Black Afro-Americans.
This also applies to the many Southern/ Conservative Democrats.
Prez Bush is where the "Buck Stops"- as Prez. he has to take responsibility for actions of his minions and underlings- thats part of the Job description.
In all this we want to see more Positive stories about how Private donations and community has pulled together and already given about $700 million- not counting the thousands of Gestures of Kindness and Hospitality from all over USA ANd the World.
I have seen offers of willingness to host families; students; arrangements to get people back on their feet etc all over the States-
This is what needs to be highlighted as well.

SEPT 9: Ms ANJU GEORGE from India WINS SILVER MEDAL IN LONG JUMP (women) at the Worlds Atheltic Championship!! GREAT JOB!.
With a personal Best this year, Ms Anju again did India and Indian Women proud by winning a tough event.
This is one of the very few Medals ever in World Setting ie Olympics, World Champs etc in Athletics for India- let alone in Womens
Congrats Anju ji.
Hopefully we will see such pioneers and Achiever Role Models at the next India Day Festivals in USA and UK- instead of the tired old "Bolly"Wood Stars- whose dubious achievements often include crappy Movies of questionable Art, Talent and Reason (for inviting them in first place)!!!!

More HURRICANE KATRINA:
As expected FEMA Chair Brown was canned by Prez Bush.
Poor Mike Brown was unfit for the posting and Fate intervened and brought him tremendous responsibility in face of a Hurricane.
Mike Brown- former drinking buddy of Prez Bush and his committee person on fundraising and re elcetion campaign was "given" this appointment.
Too bad that 3 of the experienced FEMA Officials- like Asst Directors etc quit in past 2 years- setting this State up for a Tragedy of Errors.
It also turns out that 3 of the 5 other FEMA appointees were of the same ilk as Mike Brown ie Political appointees with no experience in Disaster Management.
Too bad we had to findout after $150 Billion in damages and 1000's of lives lost and Life interrupted for 100's thousands more.
No sympathy though for Brown- who in some ways WAS made a scapegoat for errant ways of Prez Bush and the current Admininstration.

TALKING ABOUT CULPABILITY-
Gen. Colin Powell who was actually set up by current Admin personell and the (UN) Intelligence Commitee- pun Intended
Recently Colin Powell soft balled and agreed that he was "Mislead" by intelligence sources. If you recall George Tenet personally vouched for the intelligence preseneted to UN- setting up Iraq as the fall guy country for "Axis of Evil" and Powell's UN speech for WMD's in Iraq which solidified teh war on Iraq.
So taking advantage of a Good boy Soldier; Gen Powell was made the front face for UN speech and also laid his credibilility and moral fiber on line.
Looks like he DID find out about the flawed intelligence soon enough but did NOTHING about it.
Which was exactly WHAT the "persons in the know" counted on- as a Good Soldier boy, Gen Powell would toe the line- no matter what.
Interesting is the MORAL dilemma Powell must face as he is Also responsible for the 1000's of deaths in Iraq esp. civilians- who also are going through a disruption of their lifestyle- ie no Schools, electricity interrupted, no water, medical facilities etc- for no fault of theirs.
Iraqi civilians had to face dictator A*** Saddam and were also penalized by Coalition forces by bombing the hell out of country's infrastructure!!
In all this where is TONy BLAIR and CONDI RICE??
Tony Blair will have to answer for same statements as Colin Powell as will Condi Rice.

ALSO-CONDI RICE will also have to come clean(er) on the Hurricane response by the current Admin- esp as Condi is from the South and is also Black ( in case anyone , including her forgot!!).
The main person for the Admin Condi Rice- really is the right person to address the displaced population from the Hurricane and also present a better image for Prez Bush.
PREDICT: Watch for the PR machine to kick in and promote this phase of operation. maybe look at Condi as VP for 2008
BTW Currently a 3-star General is assigned to the FEMA operations- soon they will have a 4-Star guy and troubleshooter too.

SEPT 6: Hurricane Katarina Relief Efforts & U
While images are searing and telling- What can One do about it? EVEN 2 hrs is good Enough and NEEDED. And cash is welcome too. Simple things and Many are already doing it:
Donate Canned goods and supplies to organizations sending material-HERE IS A LIST OF STUFF NEEDED- compiled from REQUESTS ON THE GROUND!! (Cash works too)
SEND TO LOCAL CHARITY or SEWA International
While Homeland Security the Feds and Governor etc are Wrangling and Arguing- the Private enterprise of Concerned People of USA and the World SWUNG into action!
Local Groups, Faith based groups, Organizations are sending stuff by truckloads. Each of them need Volunteer help to SORT-LABEL-LOAD the donations. So Even 2 Hrs of your time is good enough! U can do this LOCALLY
Concentrate on things which you can easily acquire and give.

INDIAN AMERICANS CONTRIBUTING:
Interestingly- SEWA International ( Hindu Swayam Sevak affiliate)- lived up to their reputation of providing Service in Disaster areas by Organizing immediately.
Even Local Students in Baton Rouge (Lousisiana State University) got into the act. Esp. concerned abut fellow students at Univ New Orleans and Tulane University in New Orleans.
With limited resources, students esp F-1 visa holders are vulnerable as they can ONLY work and are dependant on Campus jobs- which dont exist anymore. Also thie closure of Schols puts a wrinkle into their plans and INS may or may not look kindly on them to stay out of school.
Its great that SEWA Internationals and Art Of Living and Other Indina-American Groups have offered to accomodate the studnets who number 250-300 est by LSU Indian Students Assoc people.
More details contact- SEWA International (or Me @_CONTACT)

SEPT 4: THE YEAR OF INDIAN WOMEN ATHLETES!!!!!
INDIA's 4 x400 Relay team wins GOLD at the 16th ASIAN TRACK & FIELD ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIP in S. Korea (Incheon City). KUDOS to the Team of Rajwinder Kaur,, Geethha sati; Chitra Soman and Manjit Kaur in a championship record time of three minutes 30.93 seconds. ( They broke Chinese record of 3:31:30) It should be noted That China, Japan are considered World class atheletes and good competition! Ms. ANJU GEORGE Indian Long Jump and World Cup Winner WINS GOLD in LONG JUMP @ ASIAN TRACK & FIELD CHAMPIONSHIP

SEPt 3: SANIA WATCH- INTO THE 4th round of US OPEN Tennis 2005-Will Face Maria Sharapova- will be tough but Go for it Sania Mirza- 1st Indian Female to reach 4th round at US Open!!

SEPT 3: HURRICANE KATARINA WATCH-Amidts all the Finger pointing and Ineffective Hand Wringing and declarations of "Its not Enough" etc... Obviously the Hurricane has struck a deep nerve! AND RIGHTLY ......
The MOST powerful Country and Richest Country USa Cannot take care of its own peoples. especially the poorest and most vulnerable!
What a Shame. This reflects more on the Prioroties set by a Nation ruled by a Few people and Interests..
The shame of Disenfranchisement of the poor in USA is claear and Obvious- espeically in the poorest States of the Republic iof USA affeected ie Louisiana, Mississipi and the neighboring states in the South.
When Louisiana- New Orleans politicos proposed $200 Million in impriovments to the Levees in New Orleans- this budget was trimmed to $40 million by the current Administration.
Earlier Admins DidNOT do much either- All politicians - past and present reward Prok-barrel projects ie reward States with Rich and powerful lobbies and interests. Is a Corruption and Greed of Local Kind
Another problem- major resources are devoted to Homeland Security and Also the War in Iraq- incl National Guradsmen and equipment.
All this isi obvious from the subtle blame games going on from the Feds of blaming local government oficials.
The FEMA dude in Louisiana was Appointed By Prez Bush and looked like an idiot- as he admits to a TV camera that he was NOT WAWARE about 15,000 people waiting for Relief efforts in the nearby Convention center and Superdome...(This dude has NO History or Experience in running any sizeable relief operations or organizations whatsoever.)
As people wee hungry for 2 days- what else could some decent folks do- they broke in for Food and water- so much so that Policemen looked the otherway- especially as police are from the same Neighborhoods and know these people. Feeding a baby hungry for two days is a powerful force indeed. One can empathize and sympathise with such good, needy folks in distress- loking for FOOD, WATER and BASIC NECESSITIES....BUT Nothing can condone the LOOTERS who went after Luxury items by the armloads- Hope they get their due with interest very soon.

IMAGES: As the news crew charted a boat to film scenes of destriuction- a old Black man in hospital gown floated by on a makeshift boat of thin plywood. This old man was trapped in a hospital and decied to leave via a window. The plywood barely cleared the water and he was floating on his "boat" for 1 whole day. He didnot remember his hospital ..leave alone patients records and other detail. The newsman stopped long enough to lend a helping hand and took hime to the nearest hospital taking patients!!

Indian-American Blog Sam Rao

2005-06-03T13:33:00.000-07:00

Sam Rao's Blog | http://www.indian-american.org BLOG ARCHIVES

June 2: 78th Scripps Spelling Bee DOMINATED by Indian -Americans
CONGRATS ANURAG KASHYAP 1st; SAMEER PATEL 2nd; Ms.ALIYA DERI 2nd
(Sameer and Aliya tied for 2nd place, as both mis-spelled in the same round)

In the Just concluded National Spelling Bee- 271 Kids from all over North America took part including Jamaica, Canada.Out of these the TOP 4 WERE ALL Indian -American!!
A total of 31 Indian-american kids qualified out of 271 total ( nearly 12%) with Texas (7); California (4), and Indiana, Massachusetts and Ohio had (3) each
In the last six years, the Spelling Bee has been claimed by Indian Americans four times, recently by Texas kid Sai Gunturi (2003)

Anurag Sameer Aliya
Anurag Kashyap- FIRST PLACE
Sponsor:The San Diego Union-Tribune, San Diego, CaliforniaAge:13, eighth grade School: Meadowbrook Middle School, Poway, California
Bio: Anurag is an avid reader and a straight A student. His favorite subject in school is science. Anurag recently participated in state-level Mathcounts and Science Olympiad competitions. He also represented his school in the California Geographic Bee. Anurag tied for 47th place in the 2004 national finals.

Sameer Patel: SECOND PLACE
Sponsor:Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth, Texas Age:11, sixth grade School: Patel Achievement Academy, Colleyville, Texas
Bio:Samir is a voracious reader whose favorite subject in school is math. He enjoys playing piano and playing chess. His favorite sport is football. In his spare time he likes to play video games, build with Legos, and collect coins and rocks. Samir participated in the 2003 and 2004 national finals, tying for 3rd place in 2003 and tying for 27th place in 2004
ALIYA ROBIN DERI: SECOND PLACE (Tied)
Sponsor:San Francisco Chronicle, San Francisco, California Age:13, eighth grade School:Harvest Park Middle School, Pleasanton, California
Bio: Aliya plays violin, viola, and piano and is a member of two orchestras. She swims competitively and also enjoys diving. Her other pastimes include Indian dance and Tai Chi. Aliya has won awards for her performance in competitions in math and creative writing. Aliya participated in the 2004 national finals

The complete list of Indian American participants, in order of Speller Number.
16 Nitish Lakhanpal -17 Maheen A. Rana -20 Anurag Kashyap -21 Aliya Robin Deri -36 Maithreyi Gopalakrishnan -46 Suma M. Metla -55 Sonal S. Sathe
64 Ashwini A. Gokhale -81 Vaibhav S. Vavilala -83 Sameer Mishra
90 Eesha Purohit -106 Priyanka Chavan -113 Sahiti Surapaneni
114 Abha A. Gallewale -116 Akshat Shekhar -127 Nilesh K. Raval
139 Rajiv Tarigopula -149 Arjun R. Modi -163 Rajdeep Chahal
171 Krunal Dhaval -184 Shrey P. Shah -185 Saptarshi Chaudhuri
194 Manasa J. Reddy -219 Aravind Arun -233 Midhat Patel
234 Anjali Chitra Raghuram -236 Nikhil B. Koganti -238 Samir Sudhir Patel
239 Nidharshan S. Anandasivam -240 Anjay Ajodha -241 Abiram Viswanath
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MAY 30- MEMORIAL DAY OBSERVED in USA.
Thi important remembrance day honors the sacrifices of Millions over the years- who gave their lives.
In modern times (May 1966), President Lyndon Johnson declared officially that Waterloo N.Y. was the birthplace of Memorial Day altho' its difficult to prove the origins of the remembrance day.
WWII brought in all new meaning to Memorial day- as it was Global and also millions of lives were affected. Memorial day is also a universal recognition of Allies contribution- esp. in WWII.

MAY/JUNE MONTHS OF BEES- Geography Bee & Spelling Bee:
The prestigious National Geographic Bee concluded May 25 (see results below) and The 78th Scripps National Spelling Bee is on June 1-2. This can be seen live on ESPN 2 on Thursday at 10 a.m. Neat.
This may signify a mindset change in Media/Broadcaster- with increasing number of print media ALSO publishing names of Science Contest Winners, Robotics Contest Wnners etc- Even Local ones!! Good

National Geographic Bee 2005 Finalists Florida: Jesse Weinberg, Ransom Everglades Middle School, Coconut Grove
Illinois: Bonny Jain, Woodrow Wilson Middle School, Moline
Kansas: Benjamin Detrixhe, Clifton-Clyde Middle School, Clyde
Michigan: Jamie Ding, Parcells Middle School, Grosse Pointe Woods
Minnesota: Nathan Cornelius, Marshall Area Christian Home Educators Association- 1st PLACE
Missouri: Matthew Thampy, St. Charles County Homeschoolers ( Recognize this Indian-American kid from his Brother winning Spelling in 2003!+ 2nd in Geography Bee)
New Jersey: Tejas Raje, Crossroads North Middle School, Monmouth Junction- Another Indian-American kid.
Oregon: Samuel Brandt, Roosevelt Middle School, Eugene
Rhode Island: Karan Takhar, The Gordon School, East Providence- 2nd PLACE
Washington State:Max Sugarman, Pine Lake Middle School, Sammamish Ma
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2005/05/0524_050524_beefinals.html

LAST WORD: WHY DID THE CHICKEN CROSS THE ROAD??
Ticket Against Jaywalking Chicken -TRUE STORY from Florida!!
RIDGECREST, Calif. - A chicken that got a ticket for crossing the road has clawed his way out of it. The $54 citation for impeding traffic was dismissed Friday after Linc and Helena Moore's attorney argued that the fowl was domesticated and could not be charged as livestock.
State law restricts livestock on highways, but not domestic animals.
The chicken was ticketed March 26 for impeding traffic after it wandered onto a road in Johannesburg, a rural mining community southeast of Ridgecrest......
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20050529/ap_on_fe_st/chicken_ticketed
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MAY 27: King Jirake is Dead- The Great Andaman King who survived the violent Tsunami with several of his subjects is dead.

A shame that a Great King of peoples from my motherland India is dead and hardly a ripple went through the community.

It is a shame that very little is known of these great people of India both by researchers and even educated people from India. Very Recently, through Genetics, the inhabitants of Andaman and Nicobar have have been discovered to be (pure) descendants of part of the Original migration of Humans from Africa- dated 60,000 ytp!!
King Jirake spoke Great Andamanese language and was one of half dozen fluent in the language. Jirake had vast knowledge about not just his own people but also other tribes. He was multilingual, his father was from the Bo tribe and his mother from the Cari tribe. The tribes are now extinct, but Jirake spoke both their languages apart from a host of others like Jeru, Khora and Pucikwar. Interestingly, King Jirake also knew Burmese and a language called Sadari spoken in the tribal areas of Ranchi.His Grandson Berebe was born After the rescue form Tsunami in Chennai. Long Live The King!

More details http://www.indian-american.org