Tragedy in Novi, Mi - Domestic Violence and Support needed by the Michigan Indian Community

It is Diwali season and celebration of the beginning of a Hindu New Year. And yet in the midst of all the revelry came news of a tragedy; a woman and her two kids were murdered in their home, and the police are looking for the husband and father as a person of interest.

More relevant to this discussion is that this tragedy has befallen an Asian Indian family in Novi, Michigan.

The story as reported by the local news is that the family had recently moved to Novi, husband had lost his job, their car was repossessed, and basically they had fallen into hard times. The father and husband, Lakshminivasa Rao Nerasu, appears to have fled to India and there is an international manhunt underway to locate him.

So what's my point?

If Lakshminivasa is indeed the person who killed his family, questions that come to my mind are:

• Did anyone in the Nerasu extended family (like the brother who notified the police) know Lakshminivasa was approaching breaking point?
• Did the family suffer any kind of domestic violence before the day when they were killed?
• Did the father suffer from depression that went untreated?
• Did the wife and kids tell anyone of the situation at home that may have caused this ultimate tragedy?

It is impossible perhaps to know what may be happening in someone's home. But by raising awareness about available support and by letting people know about the Michigan Asian Indian Family Services (MAIFS.org) we can perhaps avert such tragedies. The MAIFS has professionals who can help provide counseling and guidance in domestic violence situations. If you know of someone facing tough times, let us all encourage them to contact MAIFS. The MAIFS is known for maintaining absolute confidence when working with people facing such situations.

We don't know what led to the Nerasu family tragedy. We can only speculate that hard times led to such a tragedy. But domestic violence happens in various different situations. Even though we all live busy lives, let us all go an extra mile to offer support and a lending hand to those who may need it. And let us raise awareness about available resources such as the MAIFS so that we can help a family in need.

All my best....
Nipa

michiganindia.mibazaar.com moves to indians.mibazaar.com

I have decided to move michiganindia.mibazaar.com to indians.mibazaar.com

I have shortened the name to indians.mibazaar.com which makes it easier to remember and type.

As a reminder the blogs currently I maintain are:

• mibazaar.com (A Web Log of Current News, Events, Education, Entertainment News expressed via Google Maps and Google Maps Mashups.
• indians.mibazaar.com (India related news/events for Indians in Michigan)
• usindians.mibazaar.com (Web Log of Indians in the news in United States)

MIICC Monthly Meeting (December 12th) - Change of Venue

Just been informed by Nipa Shah that there's a change in venue for Michigan India Chamber of Commerce's monthly meeting scheduled for December 12th. Here are the details:

• Date & Time: Wednesday, December 12th from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm EST (2nd Wednesday of every month, 1 participant or 20)
• Location: Marx Layne & Company, 31420 Northwestern Highway, Suite 100, Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (www.marxlayne.com) Phone: 248.855.6777
• Agenda: Reiki Master Presenting fundamentals of Reiki and general networking
• Cost: No Charge to Members (including youths & non-profits) and $10 for non-members

For more details check out MIICC website.

C.K. Prahalad named the top management guru in the world

C.K. Prahalad, the Paul and Ruth McCracken Distinguished University of Michigan Professor of Corporate Strategy has been named the top Management Guru of the World by "Thinkers 50". C.K. Prahalad beat out Bill Gates (ranked 2nd) and Allen Greenspan (ranked 3rd).

Quoting University of Michigan Ross School of Business website:

According to Stuart Crainer and Des Dearlove of Suntop Media, not many management thinkers actually follow up important early ideas with genuinely groundbreaking future ideas.

"This is what C.K. Prahalad has managed to do," Crainer said. "His work with Gary Hamel set the strategic agenda of the 1990s. Now, with 'The Fortune at the Bottom of the Pyramid,' he has established the social, entrepreneurial and economic agenda of our times."

C.K. Prahalad's Early Life (via Wikipedia)

Prahalad is one of nine children. His father was a well-known Sanskrit scholar and judge in Madras, India (now Chennai). When he was 19, Prahalad was recruited by the manager of the local Union Carbide battery plant. He worked there for four years. Prahalad calls his Union Carbide experience a major inflection point in his life.

Prahalad then went to the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIMA), where he fell in love with a student at a nearby university. After five years spent trying to win their families' approval, the couple married and left for Harvard University. There Prahalad wrote a PhD thesis on multinational management in just two and a half years. The couple then returned to India, where he taught at the IIMA. But his ideas on global business were under constant attack from nationalists in India. He decided to return to the United States, as an assistant professor at the University of Michigan.

Saawariya comes to Michigan on November 9th, 2007

Saawariya starring Ranbir Kapoor (son of Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Singh) and Sonam Kapoor (daughter of Anil Kapoor) will be screened at SR Movies, Novi, MI starting November 9th. For Showtimes keep checking MIMANTRA.

Saawariya Synopsis (via)

Saawariya is the innocent love story of two lonesome youngsters over a period of 4 successive nights. The charming, free-spirited Raj (Ranbir Kapoor) is a dreamer, who comes to a quaint, picturesque town in Shimla, known for its lakes, mist, heavenly snowfall, rains, and tall swaying pine trees.

Raj believes that he's found the perfect place to inspire his inner artist. The bright, fun-filled winding streets of the mall come alive with singing clubs, rustic folklore, dancing, love ballads, flourishing colonies of artists and weavers, and chants from the monastery - all woven in perfect harmony into a magical dream. All is perfect until at a bridge one night, he stumbles across the shy, mysterious, and melancholic Sakina (Sonam Kapoor) with a secret past.

Their chance encounter kindles into friendship and an impromptu romance. As one night passes another, Raj falls more and more in love with Sakina and tries to win her heart, while Sakina begins to trust him enough to share her secret. But when Sakina reveals why she cannot reciprocate his love, Raj is unable to accept her past and is driven into a whirlwind of desire, madness, and romance. And then what happens is......got to head over to the movie theaters to find out!

Om Shanti Om comes to Michigan on November 9th, 2007

Om Shanti Om starring Shahrukh Khan and Bollywood Beauty Deepika Padukone will be screened at SR Movies, Novi, MI starting November 9th. For Showtimes keep checking MIMANTRA.

And for an excellent music review of OM SHANTI OM check out DJ Amri's post (Michigan's Best Indian DJ).

(Note: Deepika Padukone is the daughter of former world badminton champion from INDIA Prakash Padukone)

Here's Aneek Dhar (2007 Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Champ) singing "Main Agar Kahoon" from Om Shanti Om (He sings this song better than the original)

Mumtaz Haque of Troy, MI appointed to Governor's Advisory Council

This announcement from State of Michigan website:

Mumtaz P. Haque of Troy producer and host of Manoranjan Radio Show, is appointed for a term expiring April 30, 2011 to Advisory Council for Asian and Pacific American Affairs. She succeeds Amy K. Stillman whose term has expired.

The Advisory Council for Asian and Pacific American Affairs is charged with serving in an advisory capacity to the governor and alerting her to pertinent issues within the Asian and Pacific American community. It also makes recommendations about programs and policies for the betterment of Asian and Pacific Islanders in Michigan and helps to promote public awareness of Asian and Pacific American culture and accomplishments.

This appointment is not subject to disapproval by the Michigan Senate.

Congratulations Mumtaz!!

Haandi Cusine of India in Livonia, MI

If you live in Novi, Northville, Plymouth, Livonia then you don't have to drive far for a nice, clean, reasonably priced Indian Restaurant.

Last Wednesday we decided to try out Lunch Buffet at Haandi Cuisine of India in Livonia, MI (Directions). It was worth every penny. We enjoyed it. The Buffet had quite a few items (Chicken Korma, Tandoori Chicken, Chilli Chicken, Panner Rolls, Spring Rolls, Bharta, Rajma, Curry (with Pakora). This in addition to Rice, Naan, corn soup and for dessert they had fruit custard.

I spoke to Rakesh Sabharwal (the owner who by the way is a extremely courteous and soft spoken gentelman) who mentioned that on weekend they also serve goat/lamb meat in their buffet.

The only thing is that the food has "North India" written all over it. In order to attract more people, Haandi owners would might want to consider including other dishes like, vada sambar, dosa, pav bhaji.

Indian Classical Music and Dance event at Ann Arbor, MI

Asha for Education (Ann Arbor Chapter) presents an evening of Indian Classical Music and Dance titled "Rhythms of Hope" on November 3rd, 2007 from 5.00-7.30 pm at Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre, 911 North University, Ann Arbor MI, 48109 (directions).

The event will feature one hour of Odissi dance performed by Ms.Sreyashi Dey, followed by one hour of Hindustani music, featuring sitar performed by Dr. Rajan Sachadeva and tabla performed by Mr. Amol Khanapurkhar.

Cost: $12 Students, $25 & $35 General (All proceeds go towards education of underprivileged children in India.) For more info visit the event website.

Rangoli Restaurant Reviews at Yahoo Local

If you ever want to find out what others feel about a restaurant, then check out Restaurant Reviews at Yahoo Local.

One of the restaurants I was looking at was Rangoli Indian Cusine, located at 3055 E Walton Blvd, Auburn Hills, MI 48326. I will mention couple of reviews here. You can check out more by visiting Yahoo Local.
Positive:

- fantastic and fresh: Good selection and great tasting food.
For those new to Indian food, try the samosas, masala dosa, and chicken tiki masala. Yum!

- Best Indian cuisine I have ever eaten: Paneer chilli and other paneer items are good. Some items are really expensive. We should get coupons in mail.

Negative:

Wrongoli: Small proportions…. High prices… and mediocre at best food…

Detroit Born Indian American gets a top level position at HHS

Dr. Anand Parekh (31) who was born in Detroit has been named acting deputy assistant secretary for health (science and medicine) at the Department of Health and Human Services.

Dr. Anand Parekh is the son of Kamlesh and Deepika Parekh of West Bloomfield, Michigan.

Dr. Parekh graduated with a political science degree from the University of Michigan, where he completed his graduate training in medicine and public health.

Congratulations to Dr. Parekh.

(Source: IndiaWest)

Global Drum Project Event at Michigan State University

Zakir Hussain along with Mickey Hart, Sikiru Adepoju and Giovanni Hidalgo will be on the campus of Michigan State University on October 20th, 2007.

Date: Saturday, October 20, 2007 at 8 PM
Venue: Cobb Great Hall, Wharton Center for the Performing Arts, MSU Campus
Tickets: $38, $28, $23 for general public, $15 for students
For tickets and more information check out Wharton Center, MSU website.

This from the MSU Event Site:

New music from the group that brought you the Grammy Award winning Planet Drum. Global Drum Project reunites Grateful Dead percussion heavyweight Mickey Hart with his longtime friend and collaborator, tabla master Zakir Hussain, along with talking drum ace Sikiru Adepoju and the formidable conguero Giovanni Hidalgo. Planet Drum was released in 1991 and went on to earn the first-ever Grammy® in the World Music category. “This is a deep drumming groove. We’re taking the archaic rhythm worlds into outer space. Planet Drum explores rhythm and noise; it’s a sound yoga of processed acoustic percussion headed straight for the trance zone that becomes a dance of ancient and modern worlds. Deep drumming is a skeleton key into these realms.” - Mickey Hart

Michigan India Chamber of Commerce launched

Detroit Free Press is reporting that one of our community members Nipa Shah has just launched Michigan India Chamber of Commerce.

Quoting the Free Press article:

She launched the chamber envisioning a networking organization that would benefit the Asian-Indian community in business and other areas. She has signed up seven members in the first month of operation and hopes to quickly reach 25.

"The Michigan India Chamber is not just for business owners," says Shah, who earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Bombay and an MBA from Lawrence Technological University. "It's also for individuals, homemakers, companies, youth and those who aspire to be entrepreneurs."

She wants her organization to become a resource center to meet the education, mentoring and networking needs of the Asian-Indian community.

Bharatiya Temple in Troy, MI to double its size

Detroit News is reporting (story by reporter Catherine Jun) that

A $9 million expansion of the temple on North Adams and South Boulevard is finally scheduled to begin within a week, with final building permits in hand that will allow excavation and foundation work on 17 acres.

The project has been in the works for nearly a decade. By the end of 2009, builders will erect a 60,000-square-foot structure, with a grand rotunda, a sky-lit worship hall and three shikharas, similar to steeples, pointing to the sky.

The new structure will fuse architectural styles of northern and southern India, in keeping with the temple's inclusive approach to worship, rather than focusing on one region's religious traditions.

Local Desi Restaurant to start a Monthly Meal Plan

India Spice Restaurant located at 30701 W 12 Mile Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48334 (PH: 248-381-5449) is starting a "MEAL PLAN" from October 16th. Here's what it is.
For $100.00 a month (excludes Sunday/Monday) they will provide you with 1 Vegetarian Meal a day which includes (Appetizer, Rice, Variety Rice (whatever this is?), Veg. Curry (2), Naan, Dessert). This averages out to $4.54/meal.

Non Vegetarian Lovers can pay $120.00 a month (excludes Sunday/Monday) and you will get 1 Non-Veg meal a day which includes (Non Veg Appetizer, Plain Rice, Variety Rice, Naan, Tandoori Chicken, Chicken Curry, Dessert). This averages out to $5.50/meal.

If you want the meals delivered then you have to pay $20.00 extra a month (delivery limited to Farmington/Farmington Hills). (via)

Diwali Celebrations in Michigan - 2007

Indian Organizations throughout the Metro Detroit Area and in Michigan are finalizing plans for Diwali Celebrations. Here are some of them that I know of. (If you know of any more please post it in the comments or email me.)

UPAD (Uttar Pradesh Association of Detroit) hosts a Dinner and Cultural Program on October 27th (starts at 5.30PM) at the Costick Activity Center – (Door A - 28600 Eleven Mile Road, Farmington Hills, MI (East of Middlebelt) 248-473-1816.

Donation requested as follows: (make cheques payable to UPAD)
Members $16 per Person
Non-Members $ 20 per Person
Seniors (>65) $ 12 per Person
Participants (<18) $10 per Person
Children (<10) $10 per person
Children (<5) Free!!!

For more info visit UPAD website.

Detroit Telugu Association
Saturday, November 03, 2007 5:30PM to 10:30PM at Novi High School, 24062 Taft Road, Novi, MI 48374. Check out there Detroit Telugu website for more details.

Michigan Konkani Association
Diwali Gala is tentatively scheduled for November 17, 2007 at the Southfield Civic Center. Keep checking there website for more details.

Gujarati Samaj of Detroit
Diwali Celebrations is scheduled for Saturday, Oct 28th at Sea Holm High School, Birmingham. Visit there website for more details.

Maharashtra Mandal of Detroit
Maharashtra Mandal is celebrating DIWALI on November 17th. Check out there website for more details.

Tandoori Chicken at Cafeteria of St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, Ann Arbor

Couple of days back Detroit News was reporting that Indians are the largest Asian Population in the Metro Detroit Area (link). This has translated to India related businesses which are opening up in quite a few places in the Metro Detroit Area. For eg:

• Couple of India related Movie Theaters (SR Movies, Detroit Desi Cinema)
• Tons of Indian Grocery Stores
• Indian Restaurants have opened up in quite a few places (link)

Yesterday, I was at St. Joseph Mercy, Ann Arbor (my wife was in surgery). During lunch hour I took a stroll to the cafeteria and guess what I saw as "Chef's Special" - Tandoori Chicken with Basmati Rice (priced at $4.68). Immediate thought was that there must be lot of Indian Doctors at St. Joseph.

I bet in couple of months we will see Bollywood related (24/7) FM station in the Metro Detroit Area. Who knows Blockbuster might rent out Bollywood Movies.

What other changes do you think might take place?

Reviews of Indian Restaurants in Michigan

Please send in reviews (via comments to this post) of Indian Restaurants you have dined at in and around Michigan. What was your experience:

• Quality of Food
• Was it reasonably priced/or expensive
• Location
• How was the service

For a list of Indian Restaurants in Michigan click here. (If I have missed any please email me or leave a comment).
For a list of Indian Restaurants across United States click here.

Shanti Project launching a campaign of non-violence through the use of Theater and Acting

Shanti Project affiliated with University of Michigan school of Social work is launching a campaign of non-violence through the use of Theater and Acting.

Quote from their Brochure:

In order to promote nonviolence and peace within our homes and community, we are looking for dynamic individuals to join our groundbreaking theater troupe.

Through the use of theater and other interactive performance elements, troupe members will:

* Develop scenes
* Write scripts
* Engage audiences to spark new conversations
* Pave the way for a lasting societal impact
* Take part in community and program-sponsored events
* Perform across the Southeastern Michigan area

If you are interested (no experience necessary and all ages are welcome) and want to make a difference contact the folks at Shanti Project at 1-888-4-SHANTI or email them at shantiproject[at]umich[dot]edu

Women's Day on September 23rd, 2007 at Novi, MI

Asian Indian Women's Association brings to you their 2nd Annual "Women's Day" on September 23rd, 2007 at Rock Financial Show Place, Novi, MI from 9.30 AM to 5.30 PM. Check out their website for more details.

Quote from their brochure

A Power Packed Day of FUN, SEMINARS, MARKETING, SEMINARS and NETWORKING

• Indoor Event
• Explore variety of Exhibits in the main hall
• Free Prize Giveaways and Makeup tips
• Free Chair Massages to ease Stress and tension!
• Free Blood Pressure, Blood Sugar and Cholesterol check to stay fit

Note: This is a fun filled event for women only. Children under 16 are discouraged from attending

Indians are the largest Asian Population in Metro Detroit

Detroit News (09/12/2007) is reporting that Asians have overtaken Hispanics to become the 2nd largest Minority Group in Metro Detroit. Indians make up more than a 3rd of the Asian Population followed by the folks from China, Philippines, Japan and Korea.

Detroit News interviewed Ramana Mudeganti of Rochester Hills a native of Southern India. Quoting Detroit News:

"I never imagined coming to Detroit, if not for the job" said Ramana Mudeganti, a 34-year-old native of southern India who left Raleigh, N.C., for a technology job at Compuware six years ago.

He was comforted by the fact that many classmates and a neighbor from India were already here. Now a contract worker at Chrysler, he settled in Rochester Hills and got married. On Sunday, his son was born.

"When I moved here, it felt good. If you can bear the winter, it's not that expensive here," he said. "It's a very big community. There's Middle Eastern, Asian; all communities here. A very diversified community."

Detroit News also interviewed Vijyesh Saxena who along with his teammates beat a rival team of Chrysler workers in the game of Cricket this past Monday at Auburn Hills. Quoting Detroit News:

Saxena, the tournament MVP and a Chrysler information technology worker, and his fellow cricket players are the flesh and blood behind the influx of Asians.

"The funny thing is, I never played that much cricket in India," Saxon, 33, said Monday, scooping up his MVP trophy before heading home. But he does now, thanks to Chrysler's 12 cricket teams and organized groups like the Detroit Cricket League, which has nearly doubled the number of teams since 2001.

Saxena's immigration story is emblematic of most foreign-born workers moving into Detroit.

The Jaipur, India, native enrolled in a master's degree program at Eastern Michigan University in 2001, got a job at Chrysler and a temporary work visa that expires in 2011. He has applied for a green card and would like to stay, especially since he is now married and his wife is expecting a baby in April.

He is far from home, but doesn't always feel that way because several friends also live and work in Metro Detroit.

"I never really felt out of country," he said.

Indian Beauty - Padmashree Shobana coming to Ann Arbor, MI

Association of India Development brings to you "MAYA" a dance performance by the Indian beauty Padmashree Shobana on October 6th, 2007 from 6-9 PM at 121 Fletcher St., Ann Arbor MI, 48109. Contact Deepa Pendse at 517-214-0584 or email at deepa[at]umich[dot]edu.

Ticket Prices: $55,$35,$20 (Children under 10 free). All proceeds will benefit Association of India Development projects.

Note: This event co-sponsored by University of Michigan Center for South Asian Studies

Ajay Murthi of Oakland Township, MI killed in a car crash with a Street Sweeper

Detroit Free Press is reporting that Ajay Murthi, 38 of Oakland Township who was driving a Porsche, died from injuries sustained in a car crash at Livernois, south of Walton, in Rochester Hills late Thursday (August 30, 2007).

Quoting Detroit Free Press:

Ajay Murthy was driving a 2004 Porsche northbound on Livernois just before 11 p.m. when he ran into the back of a street sweeper truck, according to the sheriff’s office. Murthy was transported to Crittenton Hospital Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

A passenger in the Porsche — Jayabalan Kunjunni, 62, of Canton — was taken to Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, where he is listed in critical condition, according to the sheriff’s office.

Police say they believe alcohol was a factor in the crash.

Hand Crafted Jewelry in Michigan

There is a new online business started by one of our community members here in Michigan which sells nice looking Hand Crafted Jewelry. Check out their website.

Quote from their website:

Our company, Simply Adorable Designs, Inc. was born from a passion for making jewelry. On our website, www.JewelryFolio.com you will find elegant necklaces, unique bracelets, lovely earrings and many more items which are beautifully made and reasonably priced.

Juggy D comes to Festival of India (2007) - Detroit, MI

Juggy D a British Bhangra Singer from Southall, London, England will be performing live at Festival of India on Saturday, August 25th, 2007 starting at 7.30 PM at Hart Plaza in Detroit, Michigan.

Related: Festival of India website

Here's Juggy D along with Jay Sean (who was here in Detroit last year):

India's Independence Day Celebrations in Michigan

Feel the Pulse of India at India's Independence Day Festival on August 12th at Rock Financial Show Place, Novi, MI. The organizers (India League of America) have planned a grand event which includes - Parade, Live Dances and Music, Vast Indoor Shopping Stalls, Authentic Indian Food. As a bonus the organizers have also planned a Visa Camp, Health Camp and Job Fair. (Visit India League of America's website for more details).

To get you in the mood here's a Bollywood Classic "Mere Desh Ki Dharti" from Upkar.

About 2 weeks later from August 24th-August 26th there is another Independence Day Festival coming up at Hart Plaza, Detroit. For details visit the organizers (The United South Asian Promotions Group) website.

Naya Daur a Bollywood Classic comes to Big Screen in Michigan

Naya Daur a Bollywood classic of 1950's (now in color) starring Dilip Kumar and Vyjayantimala comes to SR Movies, Novi, MI on August 3rd, 2007. Visit MIMANTRA for show times.

Here's Uden Jab Jab Zulphen Teri from Naya Daur:

Health Fair at Bharatiya Temple, Troy, MI

The 6th Annual Health Fair will be held on Sunday August 12th from 9 AM to 1 PM at the Bharatiya Temple located at 6850 N Adams Road, Troy, MI 48098 (directions).

This event Organized by
The Bharatiya Temple,
Michigan Association of Physicians of Indian Origin
and Crittenton Hospital Medical Center

From the Bharatiya Temple website:

Blood screening panel including fasting sugar, cholesterol, hemoglobin, and PSA will be conducted free for everyone (pre registration requested & Fasting for 12 hours is suggested).
Bone density measurement will be available to women, if needed.
Information Booths on Hormone Replacement Therapy, breast cancer, mammogram, prostate, cataract, nutrition, exercise, and life style enhancement.
Cardiologists, Urologists, OB-GYNs, Ophthalmologists, Rheumatologists, Endocrinologists, Internists, Dentists, Pharmacists and other specialists will be on hand for guidance.

Please pre-register before August 6th by providing your name, address and phone number.
All Tests are FREE!
To register contact : Minal Engineer email : minal_e@hotmail.com

Big 3 Cricket Challenge at Bloomer Park, Rochester Hills, MI

The Big 3 Cricket Championship Game will be held on July 29th at Bloomer Park, Rochester Hills, MI from 4pm - 8pm. This year's participating teams are General Motors, Daimler Chrysler, Ford and Altair. For more details visit Michigan Cricket Association website.

Guess what! The special guest for this championship game will be Mushtaq Mohammed, former Captain for Pakistan's cricket team.

You can see the cricket pitch in this Google Maps Satellite picture of Bloomer Park, Rochester Hills, MI.

Sonu Nigam comes to Detroit, MI on August 17th, 2007

UPDATE: Sonu Nigam concert postponed to September 7th, 2007
Sonu Nigam will be live in concert on August 17th, 2007 at the Detroit Opera House (Map). The show starts at 8 PM. This event bought to you by Palace-Entertainment.

For Tickets Call Bittu @ 586- 506- 0043 or Detroit Opera House at 313-237-3425. Tickets are also available at most major Indian Grocery and Appliance stores.

Here's a title song from Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna sung by Sonu Nigam:

Upcoming Indian Community Events in Michigan

Anand Bazaar - Gujarati Samaj of Detroit brings to you Anand Bazaar - on July 14th from 10 AM to 8 PM at the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center, 15801 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI 48126 (Map). Check out Gujarati Samaj Website for more details. The Website states

Come and Enjoy Handicrafts, Gift Items, Jewelery, Clothing, Mehendi/Henna, Music Masti and wide array of delicious array of Indian Food

Raas, Garba and Folk Dance Competion - This again by Gujarati Samaj of Detroit on July 14th at 1 pm at the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center, 15801 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI 48126. (Map). Check out Gujarati Samaj of Detroit Website for more details. If you want to see the this competition, the cost of tickets are $100, $75, $50, $35 (sold out). So at the minimum a family of 4 has to pay $200.

New Contributor to Michigan Indian Community Blog

Michigan Indian Community's very own - DJ Amri of SnazzyBeatz is now writing here at MIBAZAAR's Indian Community Blog as "Snazzy". Amri runs the show at SnazzyBeatz. Some of the events which Amri DJ's for is Weddings, Receptions, Mehndi, Graduation, Anniversaries, 1st Birthdays, Sweet 16, Hot 18, Night Clubs and as she says "just about any bahana to have fun!". Check out her website for more details.

Do you want to contribute by writing on things which would be of interest to our community then do let me know by sending me a email.

Detroit Telugu Association hosts Youth Basketball and Tennis Tournaments

Here are couple of upcoming events sponsored by Detroit Telugu Association:

Youth Basketball:
Date: Saturday, June 16, 2007 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Venue: Novi Middle School, 49000 11 Mile Road, Novi, MI 48374.

Team Composition:
3 Players per team (4th player - substitute - is optional)

Tournament Format:
Each team will play a minimum of 5 games (League Stage).
League games will be followed by the knock-out stages, beginning with the quarter finals.
Each game will be till 11 points (1 point baskets).

Food & Drinks:
Pizza, Snacks & Drinks will be provided throughout the tournament.

Awards & Certificates:
Trophies will be awarded to the top three teams.
Certificates will be provided to all participants.

Contact: Vikas Kodali: vikaskodali@gmail.com, Akhil Gutta: brasilsoccer@gmail.com or If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Leela Prasad Pamidimukkala at dtayouth@yahoo.com or (248) 219-2398.


Youth Tennis Tournament
Date: Saturday, June 23, 2007 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Venue: Novi Middle School, 49000 11 Mile Road, Novi, MI 48374

Tournament Format:
Both Singles & Doubles tournaments will be held.

Food & Drinks:
Pizza, Snacks & Drinks will be provided throughout the tournament.

Awards & Certificates:
Trophies will be awarded to the top three winners in both Singles & Doubles.
Certificates will be provided to all participants

Please send your entries to any one of the following E-Mail addresses:
- Nithin Gutta: nithin9003@yahoo.com
- Navya Talluri: navya2009@yahoo.com

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Leela Prasad Pamidimukkala at dtayouth@yahoo.com or (248) 219-2398

India's Independence Day Celebrations in Michigan (2007)

India League of America brings to you a fun filled "India Day 2007" at Rock Financial Show Place, Novi, MI on Sunday August 12th, 2007. Check out their website for more details.

The United South Asian Promotions Group brings to you "Festival of India 2007" at Hart Plaza, Detroit, MI from August 24th thru August 26th. Check out Festival of India website and MIMANTRA for more details.

And let's not forget those incredible Indians who fought for our freedom. Here's saluting Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev: (A Classic from Manoj Kumar's Shaheed)

Bhangra, Raas and Garba at Bharatiya Temple, Troy, MI

Bharatiya Temple located in Troy, MI brings to you a night of Bhangra, Raas and Garba on Friday June 1st, 2007 from 8 pm - 12 am. Fore more details check out the temple website.

Any Idea why the event is called "Parents Day 2007"?

Michigan's Best Indian Restaurants

The Experts at Detroit News have come out with a list of "Michigan's Best Indian Restaurants". According to the EXPERTS

First Place: Priya 72 W. Maple Road, Troy, (248) 269-0100
Second place: Star of India 3736 Rochester Road, Troy, (248) 528-2517
Third place: Shalimar Restaurant 307 S. Main St., Ann Arbor, (734) 663-1500

Don't know what the criteria was to be in the top 3.

Then there is this little guy - "Yours truly" who also maintains a list of Michigan's Best Indian Restaurants at mibazaar.

Note: No advertisement dollars involved here..

Here's the top 3 at mibazaar.

1. Ashoka Indian Cuisine (Canton, MI)
2. Haandi (Livonia, MI)
3. Royal Indian Cuisine (Auburn Hills, MI)

Shootout at Lokhandwala coming to SR Movies, Novi, MI

Shootout at Lokhandwala a Bollywood Hindi Movie comes to SR Movies, Novi on May 25th. Check out MIMANTRA for showtimes. Starring in Lead Roles are Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt, Vivek Oberoi, Abhishek Bachchan, Arbaaz Khan, Tusshar Kapoor, Sunil Shetty.

The film is based on Aftab Ahmad Khan's encounter with five members of Dawood Ibrahim's underworld gang and the true story behind these events

Cheeni Kum - A Sugarless Romance comes to Michigan

Bollywood Hindi Movie Cheeni Kum starring Amitabh Bachchan and Tabu is being released here in Michigan on May 25th at SR Movies, Novi. Check out mimantra for showtimes.

Cheeni Kum is story of a 64 year old Chef - Buddhadev Gupta (Amitabh Bachchan) who is also the owner of a Desi Restaurant in London, UK. Then one day Nina Verma (Tabu) walks into Buddhadev's restaurant. You guessed it!! There is love in the air.

The story line very much reminds me of "As Good As it Gets" which had Jack Nicholson and Helen Hunt in lead roles and both of whom went on to win Oscar award for Best Actor and Best Actress in 1997.

SnazzyBeatz - a Michigan Indian DJ for a zip-zap-zappity fun

For loads of Bhangra or Plenty of Bollywood Music or South Indian Music at your party check out Michigan's very own SnazzyBeatz

According to their email "Cross Cultural Wedding" is their speciality.

Their website states that the events they DJ'd are:

* - Weddings
* - Receptions
* - Mehndi
* - Graduation
* - Anniversaries
* - 1st Birthdays
* - Sweet 16
* - Hot 18
* - Night Clubs
* - You name it, we rocked it!
* - just about any bahana to have fun!

Indian Dining in Michigan during Mother's Day

I was going thru the list of Restaurants offering Mother's Day Special Buffet. This list can be found at MIMANTRA and MIINDIA.

Vote for your favorite Michigan Indian Restaurant

Some restaurants fail to mention the price so I am not going to mention those restaurants. Here are the restaurants offering Mother's Day Buffet and which have disclosed the cost of the buffet: (The date is Sunday May 13th)

Bombay Grille - From noon to 9 PM. Cost for Adults:$19.95 and kids $14.95 (no mention about age criteria). Bombay Grille is located at 29200, Orchard Lake Road Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334. Phone No:(248) 626 - 2982

Chennai Vilas - From noon to 8 pm. All you can eat for $12.95. No mention about what's it going to cost the kids. Chennai Vilas is located at 207 N. Mail Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104. Phone No: (734) 302-3711

Chilli Masala: All you can eat for $11.95 per person from 11:30 AM TO 9:00 PM. Here also no mention about what's it going to cost the kids. Chili Masala is located at 3500 N Lilley Rd, Canton, MI - 48187. Tel: 734-981-6065

India Spice - Adults eat for $11.95. Kids eat for $5.95. Kids under 5 free eat for free. India Spice is located at 30701 W. 12 mile Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48334. Phone No: (248) 381-5449

ISHA Yoga brings "Inner Engineering Program" to Michigan

Isha Yoga brings "Inner Engineering Program" for folks in Michigan. It will be held from June 6 - 11, 2007 (Wed - Mon) Weekdays (7pm - 10:15pm) Sat/Sun (8am - 7pm). It will be held at St. Clement Banquet Center, Dearborn, MI (near Ford and Evergreen) (map).

Visit Isha Yoga for more details.

The Inner Engineering program will be offered by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, a master of the ancient science of yoga. the program offers a rare opportunity for self-discovery under the guidance of a realized yogi. The program offers interactive discussions, guided meditations and a balanced set of simple but powerful yoga practices.

Here's a video clip of Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev.

Boogie Woogie coming to Detroit?

Sony Entertainment Television of India's Boogie Woogie is coming to Detroit on June 2nd looking for Dance Talent. Registration is being accepted for junior catergory (6 - 13 years) and senior category (14 to 21 years) Visit meraticket.com for more details.

The meraticket site lists the location as Seaholm High School, Detroit. I think it is Seaholm High School in Birmingham, MI. The address is 2436 West Lincoln Road, Birmingham, 48009. (map)

Please contact DREAMZ International the local promoters at 586-764-0938

Dr. Shobha Raju Concert

Detroit Telugu Association brings to you Dr.Shobha Raju Concert on Saturday, May 12, 2007 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Walled Lake Central High School, 1600 Oakley Park, Walled Lake, MI 48390 (map). Visit Detroit Telugu Association website for more details.

Click on the image to listen to one Dr. Shobha Raju's songs Om namO naaraayaNaayaa

An Evening dedicated to Talat Mahmood

एक शाम तलत महमूद के नाम. Mark your calendars. Khalid Mahmood son of legendary bollywood singer Talat Mahmood will be performing on Friday May 4th at University of Michigan, Social Sciences Building (Room SSB-1500), 4901 Evergreen Road, Dearborn, MI 48128 (map). The program begins sharp at 7.15.

This event bought to you by Federation of Aligarh Alumni Associations of America. Entire proceeds will support Girls education in India. (more at MIINDIA)

You just might be lucky enough to hear "Jalte Hain Jiske Liye"

Henna and Mehendi Artist in South East Michigan

Meet Bhakti Henna serving South East Michigan for all your Henna and Mehendi needs. Deepali Bhakti, owner of Bhakti Henna a long time resident of Michigan (from the Ann Arbor Area) has done "Indo American, Indian and Pakistani weddings". Check out her website for her client list.

Enjoy this "Mehendi" song from Dilwale Dulhaniya...

Congratulations to Subhash Kelkar on the 30th Anniversary of his Indian Radio Show in Michigan

Last week was the 30th Anniversay of Subhash Kelkar's Geetanjali Radio Show which is heard every Saturday from 9 AM to 10 AM on WPON 1460 AM. Last Week on his show Subhash Kelkar played the 10 best bollywood songs from the past 30 years.

I asked Mr. Kelkar to email me the list of the 10 best songs. He was kind enough to email me the list. Here is the list:

Years
77-78-79    Dafliwale, dafli baja - Sargam (Video)
80-81-82    Tere mere beech mein - Ek Duuje Ke Liye (Video)
83-84-85    Sun Sahiba sun   -   Ram, Teri Ganga Maili
86-87-88    Ek do teen        -   Tezaab
89-90-91    Dekha hai pehli baar  - Saajan (Video)
92-93-94    Ek ladki ko dekha   -  1942, a love story (Video)
95-96-97    Tujhe dekha to ye jaana  - 
            Dilwale dulhaniya le jaayenge
98-99-00    Chhaiyan chhaiyan  - Dil Se
01-02-03    Mitwa, sun mitwa    -  Lagaan
04-05-06    Kajrare kajrare - Bunty aur Babli

Ravi Shankar coming to Detroit, MI

Ravi Shankar the legendary Sitarist will be here in Detroit, MI on Saturday April 21st at 8 pm at:
Max M Fisher Music Center,
3711 Woodward Avenue
Detroit, Michigan 48201
Box Office Phone: (313) 576-5111
Box Office Fax: (313) 576-5109
(Google Maps)
Guess what! if you call the BOX OFFICE and mention MIINDIA you get 30% off the ticket price. (via MIINDIA)

Here's Ravi Shankar in "Concert for Bangladesh (1972)"

Mahindra and Mahindra interviewing for positions in India

Interested in career opportunities in India? Mahindra and Mahindra is interviewing for a variety of positions. They will be interviewing on April 14th from 9 AM to 6 PM at:
39500 Orchard Hill Place, Suite 100, Novi, MI 48375.
Telephone No: 248-347-3780.
(Google Maps of the Interview Location). Visit MIINDIA for more details on type of positions and career opportunities at Mahindra and Mahindra.

Indian Radio Programs in Michigan

There are quite a few Indian Radio Programs in Michigan. Which Desi Radio Shows do you tune into?

Majority of these programs are at 1460 wpon. The ones I listen to are:

One of my favorites is Subhash Kelkar. He has got the best voice of the lot (I call him Amin Sayani of Michigan Indian Radio). Tune into 1460 from 9 AM - 10 AM every Saturday. Majority of the content is delivered in Hindi which I feel is great!

Mumtaz Haque is also good. Her programs can be quite informative because of personalities she interviews from time to time. Only thing is its 2 hour long so for some it might be just too long. Nevertheless its a show with impressive content. Tune into 1460AM from 9 AM - 11 AM every Sunday.

Then there is Rajiv Sanghvi on 690 AM on Sundays from 11 AM - 12 noon. The hour goes by pretty quick on Rajiv's show. He is well prepared and delivers the content without you getting bored.

Upcoming Indian Community Events in Michigan - April, 2007

Following are the upcoming Indian community events scheduled for April 2007 (If you know of any other Indian Community Events, do email me or post a comment)

April 1st, 2007 - Telugu Vocabulary Contest from 12 noon to 6 pm at the Novi Civic Center at 45175 W. 10 Mile Road, Novi, MI 48375. Objective here is to promote Telugu language reading and writing among the second generation while nurturing their competitive spirit and fostering teamwork. For more details visit the Detroit Telugu Association website.

April 1st, 2007 - Gujarati Samaj of Greater Detroit celebrates HOLI on April 1st from 1 pm onwards at Wylie E. Grove High School, 20500 W. 13 Mile Road, Beverly Hills, MI 48025. Visit Gujarati Samaj of Greater Detroit website for more details. (via MIMANTRA)

April 14th, 2007 - Michigan Indian American Cultural Association (MIIACA) is having their annual HOLI function (HOLI and VAISAKHI celebration) on Saturday April 14th, 2007 at Costick Center located at 28600 Eleven Mile Road, Farmington Hills, MI. Visit the MIIACA website for more details.

April 21st, 2007 - Detroit Telugu Association celebrates UGADI Festival from 5.30pm to 10.30pm at Walled Lake Central High School, 1600 Oakley Park, Walled Lake, MI 48390. For more details visit the Detroit Telugu Association website.

April 22nd, 2007 - A Free Community Health Fair hosted by Oakwood Annapolis Hospital, Michigan Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (MAPI) and Canton Hindu Temple. It is scheduled for April 22nd from 9 AM to 1 PM at the Canton Hindu Temple located at 44955 Cherry Hill Road, Canton, MI 48188. (Telephone: 734-981-8730) (via MUMTAZWORLD)

Lazy Desi - A new Michigan Indian Website

There's a new Michigan Indian Website called Lazy Desi (Translation in Hindi: आलसी देसी). Check it out, its different than what you are used to. This description from their website:

Lazydesi provides you an innovative social networking environment. You can create and share your favorite topics and other useful information like local events, selling/buying properties, education, sales, travel, sports, parenting and many more. A topic can contain several links and contents. Topics can be shared between users and get richer in information as more users add their contents to these topics.

Lazydesi also provides topic owners with some popular features like blogging and user rating to increase the visibility of your topics to new users. Being a registered user also gives you access to a rich array of topics already populated by other users. Subscribing to other's topics lets you keep pace with the dynamic changes happening under each topic.

नमस्ते London - Bollywood Hindi Movie comes to Novi, MI

नमस्ते London - a Bollywood Hindi Movie comes to SR Movies, Novi, MI on March 23rd. For showtimes check MIMANTRA.

Starring in lead roles are Akshay Kumar (as Arjun) and Katrina Kaif (as Jasmeet Singh).

Arjun is a Punjabi dude from Punjab and Jasmeet is a transplanted desi girl in London. Jasmeet loves everything western but her dad (Rishi Kapoor as Manmohan Singh) forces her to marry Arjun the desi dude. (Read more here).

Upcoming Indian Community Events in Michigan - March, 2007

Here's a list of upcoming Indian Community Events in Michigan for March, 2007

March 10th (5.30pm) - UPAD's Baras Rahe Rang Holi Celebration at Bharatiya Temple, Troy. (via UPAD)

March 10th (4.30 pm) - A2MM Holi and Gudhi Padawa Celebration at Residence of Swatee & Bhushan Kulkarni
1535 Windy Ridge Ct, Saline, MI. Contact 734-429-7270 for more details. (via MIMANTRA)

March 23rd-24th - North American Punjabi Conference at the COBO Arena, Detroit. Check out NAPC website for more details

March 24th (5.00pm) - Bhangra Fusion at the State Theater, Detroit. (via MIMANTRA)

If there are any other Community Events, please do send me a note or post a comment here.

Kavi Samellan in Michigan

Uttar Pradesh Association of Detroit UPAD brings to you a MAHA KAVI SAMELLAN (Meaning: A Grand/Huge Gathering of Poets).

The event will be held on March 18th (5.00pm) at Costick Activities Center, Farmington Hills, MI.

(Check out UPAD website for more details).

Sistar Mortgage - Indian owned Mortgage Co. in MI

Rajeev Gandhi, owner of SISTAR MORTGAGE was recently interviewed by Detroit Free Press (01/28/07).

The Free Press article highlights SISTAR MORTGAGE's expansion into states outside Michigan.

Quoting the Free Press article:

Since he began, he has expanded into 17 other states, including California, Texas and Florida.

Indeed, Michigan's cooling housing market has impacted his business, which is why he has been expanding elsewhere.

"When we began, 100% of our business was in Michigan," Gandhi said. "This year, we will do about 60% of our business outside of Michigan."

Rajeev Gandhi is originally from New Delhi and he is an engineer by profession. He started SISTAR MORTGAGE in 2001.

In a email reponse to MIBAZAAR Rajeev states that SISTAR MORTGAGE is already in 18 states and will be expanding into 40 states.

An impressive showing by a Michigan Indian owned Company. You can reach SISTAR MORTGAGE at 888-841-4238

Indian American Teen from Bloomfield Hills excels in Intel Talent Search Competition

Sohan Venkat Mikkilineni, 17, of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan is one of the four Indian Americans among the 40 finalists selected January 31st in the ongoing Intel Science Talent Search competition -- the country's elite science competition for high school students.

Sohan's Bio as mentioned in the Intel Talent Search Website

Sohan Venkat Mikkilineni, 17, of Bloomfield Hills, submitted an Intel Science Talent Search mathematics project that analyzed determinantal sequences. A d-determinantal sequence is a doubly infinite sequence of integers (..., an-1, an, an+1,...) such that the two-by-two determinant anan+3 - an+1an+2 = d. Note that three consecutive entries, together with d, determine the sequence. For ¦d¦>1 and where there is no common divisor of all the terms with odd indices (and similarly for even indices), Sohan proved that there are, with few exceptions, only finitely many solutions. By setting x = a1, y = a2 one sees a link between determinantal sequences and those solutions of the equation ax2 + abxy - by2 = -d with none of the pairs (x,b), (y,a) and (x,y) having a non-trivial common divisor.

Sohan attends Detroit Country Day School in Beverly Hills, and is captain of the F.I.R.S.T. Robotics Club. His scientific achievements have earned him a certificate of tribute from Governor Granholm. An accomplished cellist, Sohan is a member of the Detroit Civic Sinfonia Orchestra. The son of Drs. Prasad and Jhansi Mikkilineni, he plans to study pre-medicine at MIT or Stanford.

XTREME DHOOM - DJ/MC Services for Michigan Indians

Meet XTREME DHOOM a Michigan Indian musical Entertainment Company providing professional DJ/MC services for all occasions

XTREME DHOOM has fulfilled entertainment requirements of not only private occasions like Weddings, Birthdays, Graduations but also managed large scale community based events like Uttar Pradesh Association of Detroit's Holi Program.

Abhinav from XTREME DHOOM has this to say

We play popular music from Hindi, Punjabi Albums and as per audience mood, mix it up with English hip-hop, rap and techno beats. We also provide live and vibrant karaoke singing (male and female) to spice up our client's party and make it truly memorable. Our blend of unique mix of desi beats and tempo has created a strong niche amongst Desi-population across the Tri-county area.

You can contact XTREME DHOOM at
586-354-0316

Indian DJ's Sunil and Sheetal Vij from Shelby Township, MI

Meet Sunil and Sheetal Vij, Michigan Indian DJ's from Shelby Township, MI.

They have been "DJ'ing" for last 8 years. Even before that they use to dazzle their friends and family with their music selection

They provide all kinds of music, including Hindi, punjabi, english, gujurati, tamil just to name a few.

Even though Sunil and Sheetal are based in Shelby Township, MI they have done DJ parties in Buffalo (NY), Cleveland, Toledo, Dayton, Chicago, Ft. Wayne.

You can contact Sunil and Sheetal at