Entertainment

US Congressman highlights law enforcement inaction in attacks on Hindu temples

Published

6 months ago

April 16, 2024

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By Reena BhardwajWashington, DC [US], April 16 (ANI): Indian-American Congressman Shri Thanedar interacted with members of the Hindu community on Monday and spoke about the issue of rising attacks on Hindu temples across America and the fear among the community, saying that “local law enforcement hasn’t taken enough action” to investigate the recent attacks.

This comes as he introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives condemning Hinduphobia, anti-Hindu bigotry, hate, and intolerance on April 10. The resolution has been referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability.

“We’ve seen a lot of attacks happening on Hindu temples across the United States and we’ve seen a lot more in more recent times. And it’s time for us to seek support. There’s a fear. Many Hindu communities are under fear. And what we’ve seen is that local law enforcement hasn’t taken enough action. We have not seen any suspects, any arrests, or any resolution to these issues,” he said while citing it as a reason for introducing the resolution in US Congress.

“That (attack incident) has created a lot of fear among the Indian American community, among the Hindu community, and a lot of misinformation has been spread. And so the purpose of this resolution is to bring that to the attention of Congress and to the Biden administration,” he added.

Congressman Thanedar also said that he expects bipartisan support in Congress as it reflects American values, adding that he will continue to fight against racism.

“Well, I expect bipartisan support because American values–freedom, equality, and racial justice–are all American values. And I expect my congressional colleagues from across the aisle to co-sponsor this resolution and be part of it,” he said.

“I’ll continue to stand and fight for justice, just like I fight for justice for my community in Detroit, Michigan, and fighting against racism, fighting against systemic racism that my community in Detroit has experienced for decades,” he added.

Another Indian-American, Vijay Sadhawal, who was present at the event, expressed his concern over the ‘bias of the American media’ towards American Hindus and said that the resolution is just the starting point to raising the voice of the Hindu community.

“We have enough Hindu Americans in the country that can actually be a steering rod, so to speak, for protecting our minority rights in this country. And yet we see that the instruments of democracy, like the media, civil society, and NGOs, seem to be biased against the Hindu population of the United States,” he said.

“The proposal that Congressman Thanedar has introduced. I think it’s a starting point. It’s a starting point for saying that, hey, we are people. We are also people, as Americans, as anybody else. We have as many rights as everybody else has,” he added.

He also drew parallels to the attacks on Kashmiri Pandits after the 1990s and said that he “sees a tremendous similarity that serves the institutions.””The striking similarity is that if I take you back to Kashmir, which is a Hindu minority region in another democracy, and I look back at the events that took place in late last century, especially after the 1980s and beyond, I see a tremendous similarity that serves the institutions that in the democracy are intended to protect you,” he said.

“So I’m concerned in that light that Hindu Americans are at the crossroads. And if we don’t act up now, if we don’t realise what we have and our rights, both civil rights and otherwise, we will be in the same situation that Kashmiri Hindus were, who basically, a few years ago, came out of a movie called Kashmir Files. And the Indian population, by and large, said, We never heard that a genocide had been committed in Kashmir,” he added.

The resolution that Congressman Shri Thanedar introduced earlier last week reads that Hindu Americans face stereotypes and disinformation about their heritage and symbols, and have been the targets of bullying in schools and on college campuses, as well as discrimination and hate speech.

“…the House of Representatives– (1) celebrates the contributions of Hindus and Hinduism to the United States of America; (2) declares the United States as a place that welcomes the diversity brought by Hindu Americans; (3) condemns Hinduphobia, anti-Hindu bigotry and hate, and intolerance; and (4) makes appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the public and the press,” the resolution read.

In the past few years, attacks on Hindu temples and communities have surged, with cases being registered to investigate the attacks.

The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) shared information about the vandalisation of California’s Sherawali Temple in a social media post on Friday. A photo of the defacement was also shared by the HAF.

On December 23, last year, a Hindu temple was defaced with pro-Khalistani slogans in California’s Newark city. The pictures were shared on the social media platform ‘X’ by the Hindu American Foundation, showing slogans scribbled on the walls of the Swaminarayan Mandir Vasana Sanstha.

Images showed hateful slogans against India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the wall of the temple.

At the time, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had taken note of the incident and reiterated that extremists and separatists should not be given space. (ANI)

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Staff Reporter

Entertainment

Dubai is ready to dazzle with Diwali 2024 celebrations

Published

17 hours ago

October 17, 2024

Lekha Menon

Dubai is known for its multicultural spirit and vibrant festivities. Especially for the Indian community, it’s truly a home away from home as there are so many elements that bring the flavour and essence of India in Dubai. The celebrations of Diwali definitely top the list with the government going all out to ensure the city lights up with fun and festivities during this period!

This year, the Festival of Lights, a celebration organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), a part of Dubai Economy and Tourism, in collaboration with the Consulate General of India, promises a spectacular celebration with a plethora of events for residents and tourists alike.

Here’s What You Can Look Forward To:

1. Spectacular Fireworks Displays

Diwali wouldn’t be complete without fireworks, and this year, Dubai is set to outdo itself. The sky will light up at:

• Al Seef on October 25 at 9:00 PM

• Global Village on October 25-26 and November 1-2

These mesmerising displays will mark the beginning of the festivities and offer families and friends the perfect excuse to come together under the night sky.

2. Noor – Festival of Lights at Al Seef

This one is not to be missed. Noor – Festival of Lights, taking place at Al Seef from October 25-27 is a cultural extravaganza, produced by TeamWork Arts and it will feature:

• Artistic expressions and stunning light displays

• Theatre shows, poetry recitations, and puppet processions

• Live musical performances and stand-up comedy acts

• Indian delicacies and vibrant outdoor markets

Visitors can wander through Al Seef’s traditional souk and 1.8-kilometre promenade, beautifully decorated for the season.

3. Romesh Ranganathan’s Stand-Up Show

Comedy fans are in for a treat with the return of UK comedian Romesh Ranganathan to Dubai. Known for his witty observational humour, Romesh will perform a brand-new show at the Coca-Cola Arena on October 25, offering a night of laughter and entertainment.

4. The Unforgettables – A Tribute to Jagjit Singh

Music lovers can indulge in a soulful experience with The Unforgettables, a tribute to the late Indian music legend Jagjit Singh. Hosted at the Sheikh Rashid Auditorium on October 26, the concert features Tauseef Akhtar, a disciple of Singh, who will perform some of the maestro’s greatest hits.

5. Deepavali Utsav 2024

Scheduled for October 26 at the Etisalat Academy, this event offers an evening filled with traditional Indian games, folk dances from across India, and a lively funfair. Visitors can also savour a wide array of Indian delicacies from various food stalls, creating a rich festive atmosphere for families.

6. Meera: Echoes of Love

Combining dance, theatre, and music, this captivating performance on October 26 at Dubai British School, Jumeirah Park, will celebrate the strength of women and the timeless theme of love and devotion. Featuring 70 local artists, Meera: Echoes of Love promises to be an emotional and visually stunning event.

7. Shopping Extravaganza and Gold Offers

Diwali is synonymous with shopping, and Dubai’s retail scene is pulling out all the stops. From glittering gold offers to incredible retail promotions, shoppers are in for a treat with:

• Up to 50% off on jewellery and free gold coins with purchases at select stores like Damas

• The chance to win AED 150,000 in gift vouchers with Dubai Jewellery Group

• Lulu Hypermarket offering discounts on Diwali essentials, ethnic wear, and home décor items, along with a special Diwali Mela featuring Tamil film stars and festive events from October 24 to November 2

Major malls, including City Centre Deira and BurJuman Mall, will also be running special promotions where shoppers can win prizes such as half a kilo of gold and glittering home makeovers.

8. Diwali Markets at Global Village

From October 28 to November 3, Global Village will host a vibrant Diwali market at the Indian Pavilion, featuring traditional Rangoli art, live performances, and plenty of shopping opportunities. The market will also spotlight India’s finest street food, making it a foodie’s paradise.

9. Foodie Delights

Diwali in Dubai wouldn’t be complete without indulging in authentic Indian flavours. Restaurants across the city will be serving up exclusive Diwali menus, including:

• Punjab Grill, a Michelin Guide Select restaurant, offering a festive menu from October 25 to November 7

• Chutney’s at Movenpick Hotel, Bur Dubai, hosting a Diwali set menu from October 31 to November 3, complete with a rangoli competition and live entertainment

• iZ at Grand Hyatt Dubai, serving a three-course Diwali set menu from October 31 to November 2

A Festival for Everyone

With its diverse programming, Dubai’s Diwali 2024 aims to cater to all ages and interests, making it a festival for everyone. Whether it’s the thrill of fireworks, the joy of discovering hidden gems at a Diwali market, or the sheer pleasure of indulging in traditional delicacies, Diwali in Dubai promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Announcements

Yas Waterworld unveils UAE’s tallest waterslide and 18 New attractions

Published

6 days ago

October 11, 2024

Staff Reporter

Prepare for an epic splash! Yas Waterworld in Abu Dhabi is in the processing of upgrading their water park thrills with the addition of the UAE’s highest waterslide and 18 brand-new rides. Adventure seekers and families alike can look forward to an enhanced experience as the park undergoes a massive 16,900-square-meter expansion. The new section, expected to open in 2025, will feature 18 exhilarating attractions, bringing the total number of rides and experiences at Yas Waterworld to over 70.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DA8B3z_NWFN/?igsh=MW84d3JyZGo4MG52

More than 55% of the construction is already complete, and one of the most anticipated highlights is the all-new waterslide complex. Designed to accommodate 20 riders simultaneously, the complex boasts:

-The UAE’s highest slide-

-A pioneering water-based amusement ride

-A heart-pounding 15-meter drop

In addition to these high-adrenaline rides, Yas Waterworld will introduce “The Legend of the Lost Village,” an exciting continuation of its famed “Legend of the Lost Pearl,” a story steeped in the UAE’s rich pearl-diving heritage. The expansion will also feature 8 new pools and a variety of food and beverage outlets, perfect for a day of aquatic adventure and relaxation. For younger thrill-seekers, the new additions include mini versions of fan-favorite rides like Dawwama Junior and Sebag, allowing kids to join in on the fun with safe, scaled-down versions of iconic attractions.

Entertainment

Animenia ready to take over Abu Dhabi

Published

3 weeks ago

September 28, 2024

Staff Reporter

The groundbreaking anime festival like no other is coming to Abu Dhabi, October 23rd to 27th, 2024, at the prestigious Manarat AI Saadiyat. Animenia, an anime festival that redefines anime expos, missing this festival is not an option.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAXtB3By5Oh/?igsh=MTlieHUzdHEzZm1hcA%3D%3D

This festival will bring anime to life for you in a memorable way. You won’t just be watching anime—you’ll be living it. Fans will have the chance to fully dive into the enchanting realms of beloved anime, featuring popular titles like Jujutsu Kaisen, Attack on Titan, Naruto, Sanrio, and beyond. Animenia will host the largest cosplay competition ever held in the region, featuring an extraordinary prize pool that surpasses AED 400,000. From experienced cosplayers to those just starting their journey, to display their imaginative creations, this is an incredible opportunity for both. Participants will also get the privilege of presenting their work in front of esteemed international cosplay stars such as Yuegene Fay, Rian CYD, and SabCosplay, who will be judging the event. It’s an incredible opportunity to gain recognition and win amazing prizes. Fans can expect some of the most revered figures in the anime industry. Highlights of the guest list include the legendary Yutaka Abe, celebrated for his work on Detective Conan, and Ryo Horikawa, the iconic voice of Vegeta from Dragon Ball because Animenia promises to be a celebration of talent and creativity followed by jaw-dropping concerts with anime music icons like Rasha Rizk, Yoko Takahashi and many more. You’ll also uncover an exhilarating array of regional and global brands, offering must-have anime gear, exciting collectibles, and stylish anime streetwear. Animenia offers something for everyone.

This incredible festival unfolds over five days, starting October 23rd. Time is running out! Celebrate one of the biggest anime events by securing your tickets for this once-in-a-lifetime anime adventure before they’re gone.

Check out animeniaabudhabi.com or ticketmaster.ae to grab your festival day pass for just Dh65. For the hardcore fans, limited 5-Day festival passes are available for Dh425.