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R ANGOLI
THE MAY 2018
OVERSEAS
WOMEN’S
CLUB
OF BANGALORE
A Division of the Overseas
Women‘s Foundation
Bangalore FOR PRIVATE CIRCULATION ONLY
www.owcbangalore.org
10 FOCUS ON
CHARITY
The 2018
Charity Grant
The Rangoli − May 2018 | 1
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Contents
THE RANGOLI
A publication of the
Overseas Women’s Club of Bangalore
Editor: CHERYL GREENE
Commissioning Editor: VACANT
Layout: PINK LEMONADE
Distribution Team: TOSHI TSUBOUCHI & EVA
PETERSITZKE
OVERSEAS WOMEN’S CLUB
OF BANGALORE
10
(A division of the Overseas Women’s
Foundation, Bangalore)
President: SHERRY WALTER
Secretary: EMILY BENNIGHOF
Treasurer: GARY GABBINI 04 Editor’s Note
Vice-President, Charities: MONICA DEXTER 06 President’s Note
Vice-President, Fundraising: VACANT
08 What's on this Month
Vice-President, Events I: VINNY
PARAMESHIRE-HERNIER 10 FOCUS ON CHARITY
Why We Do What We Do: The 2018
Vice-President, Events II: LISA RENSTROEM
Charity Grant Allocation Process
Vice-President, Advertising and Communication:
NALINI NARANG 12 FEATURE
16
Shilpa Antony Raj: A Strong,
Vice-President, Membership: MEREDITH MEHRA
Formidable Woman
Vice-President, Publications: VACANT
16 EVENTS
The OWC Easter Egg Hunt and
Family Fun Day!
OVERSEAS WOMEN’S
FOUNDATION, BANGALORE
19 FESTIVALS
What is CINCO DE MAYO, Anyway?
Managing Trustee: SUSHEELA M THOMAS
21 PASSION AND PURPOSE
Trustees: FRANCES RAO and SUSANNE PERIS Links for Migrant Children
24 CULTURE
ISSUE: MAY 2018 Celebrating Royal Birthdays
28
Copyright Overseas Women’s Club of
Bangalore (www.owcbangalore.org). All rights
26 COOKING
reserved. Reproduction in any manner is prohibited Seasonal Fruits for a Healthier Life!
unless prior approval has been granted.
Printed in Bengaluru, India, by W.Q. Judge Press.
27 HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
The Monday Morning Commitment Cover Photo Credit: Cindy Stern — Amber Fort
This magazine is meant for private circulation only. Please send your letters and suggestions to
Disclaimer: Stock Images used in this edition are
28 TRAVEL editor@owcbangalore.org
Special thanks and appreciation to our
taken from Google. OWC acknowledges that the
Jaipur - Exploring the Wonders of members for their contribution of articles and
source websites retain ownership of the photos. the Pink City, Again, and Again photographs.
The Rangoli − May 2018 | 3
EDITOR’S NOTE
Editor’s Note
Hello friends,
So, I’ve been reading this book called, 'The Bad Ass Librarians of Timbuktu'. No, no! It
is not what you think. It details the recent rise and fall of Timbuktu and northern Mali,
and how people fought to preserve the thousand year old Arabic texts from insurgents
in North Africa. Not quite Indiana Jones, but incredible for the perseverance and
personal sacrifice they suffered to save their heritage. It follows the story of a young
man whose father chose him to be the custodian of his family’s collection of ancient
manuscripts and how he went on to establish some of the greatest modern libraries of
ancient Arabic works.
Sometimes we learn from the most unexpected places. That might be a good way to
describe life in India. For our May Rangoli sacrifice, love and devotion are some of
the common themes in our articles, and we cover Maharaja’s to migrant children in
one issue. It begins with our feature article on Shilpa Raj, our speaker from March’s
Cheryl Greene International Women’s Day Event, which is written by Sara Marassi. Sara captures the
Editor heart of Shilpa’s talk — and how Shilpa’s life course altered at the moment her parents
chose to send her away to school at the tender age of 4 to Shanti Bhavan.
In this month’s Charity Focus Sharon Otmar writes about the Grant Process and the
painstaking work and details that go into deciding how every cent the OWC raises gets
distributed to our 20 Charities. Sometimes I think the Charity Committee never sleeps
when I consider how much they accomplish each year.
Wanting to highlight some of our OWC member’s other projects, I write about three
bad-ass moms who have reached out to Bangalore’s poorest and most vulnerable to
create Links for Migrant Children, a nonprofit that is devoted to improving the lives of
babies and young kids in migrant camps. Their sacrifice and devotion to their cause is
truly commendable.
On the lighter side in May’s Rangoli — we have the smiles and delight of kids as they
work hard at the game of fun during OWC’s Easter Egg Hunt. Smita Agrawal writes
about a festive cultural event in the city’s center, the Maharaja of Mysore’s birthday
celebration. Where else can you mingle with royalty? Elizabeth Simon explains the
mystery behind the popularity of Cinco de Mayo, the Mexican Fiesta that the U.S. can’t
seem to get enough of. And Julie Sall details why she is always eager to go back to
Jaipur, her favorite city in India.
And as a goodbye letter to Bangalore, we have a poignant piece written by Terry Ann
Wilson called 'The Monday Morning Commitment', about how her and a friend’s
correspondence led them to many unexpected revelations about being moms, about
their families, and their lives as expats.
I dedicate this issue to all our Moms, Sisters, Aunties, Grandmothers, and Girlfriends.
Thanks for all you do and for the wisdom you have shared.
OWC website:
www.owcbangalore.org
To tomorrow,
OWC Facebook page: Cheryl
www.facebook.com/
overseaswomensclub editor@owcbangalore.org
4 | The Rangoli − May 2018
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PRESIDENT’S NOTE
President’s Note
Hi everyone,
I was thinking about all that the OWC has going on right now and I started to think what
photos I could contribute to the OWC Photo Competition. And I realized that I currently
have nothing, which is very sad. I am not the type of person that normally takes photos.
I’m not sure why, because when I do look at photos that I have taken it makes me happy
and I relive each event.
So I decided to do a little research about happiness and taking of photographs. Did
you know that there are studies now that show people who take photos on a regular
basis are generally happier than those who don’t? I always thought it was silly watching
people take countless photos of their food, selfies, a sign of the place they were at, etc.
Sherry Walter
I thought they were too busy recording their moment rather than being in the moment.
President
However, I now see how important it is to do both. They say that photographs help the
Overseas Women’s Club of Bangalore brain to focus on short and long term memories and by doing so exercises the brain.
There are even some studies that say it helps in keeping the memory portions of our
brains healthy while aging.
So, I now want to be one of these people that take pictures of what I used to consider
mundane things, so that I can exercise my memory and be happier. And by doing so, I
might soon be one of those people who are lucky enough to be selected as a winner of
our Photo Competition and say, “I took that picture”.
Let’s all try to be happier and share our experiences through pictures. The time as an
expat is often so short; not only for the person leaving, but also those we leave behind
here. So let’s share more. I hope many of you feel the same way and look forward to
seeing your photos in the Rangoli, on Facebook, Instagram, email, or whatever way you
want to share.
OWC website:
www.owcbangalore.org Love. Learn. Care. Share.
Always,
OWC Facebook page:
www.facebook.com/ Sherry
overseaswomensclub president@owcbangalore.org
6 | The Rangoli − May 2018
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The purpose of the Overseas Women’s Club as outlined
in the Constitution:
1. To promote social welfare by aiding needy public charitable projects without
restriction to caste or creed, with both funds and personal involvement.
2. To welcome foreign newcomers in Bangalore and help them establish
themselves in the community.
3. To promote sociability among the members and their families.
4. To help members and their families gain a better understanding of India
through cultural and social activities and programs.
The OWC of Bangalore supports the following charities:
1. Accept Society 11. Freedom Foundation Trust
2. ASHA Foundation 12. Helpline Charitable Trust
3. Asha Niketan 13. Jagruthi
4. Ashraya 14. Navachetana
5. Bangalore Education Trust 15. New Ark Mission
6. Bangalore Hospice Trust/ 16. proVISION ASIA
Karunashraya 17. Sai Shankar Loving Lights Trust
7. Child Care India 18. SKID (Sheila Kothavala
8. Deena Seva Charitable Trust Institute for the Deaf)
9. Divine Light Trust for the Blind 19. Shristi Special Academy
10. The Dominican Sisters of the 20. Vision India
Presentation
What's On Membership
This Month Notices
The Overseas Women's Club of Bangalore would like to welcome
its newest members and say goodbye to those who have left in the
May 4, 2018 Friday past two months. We are excited for all of your new adventures.
Cinco de Mayo - Conrad Hotel
7:00 - 10:00 pm New
Members
May 9, 2018 Wednesday
AGM Meeting @ Hilton Hotel Embassy Golf Links • Barbara Ives • Jalyssa Roycroft
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Meeting
• Nelly Crisp • Kavita Kumar
12:30 pm - 2:00 pm Lunch
• Eunjin Bae • Kalaivani Vaidyalingam
May 29, 2018 Tuesday • Johan Andersson • Vik Kashyap
Speaker Meeting - Vijay Lourd, Salsa Dancer • Dawn Hinke • Sridevi Chimalamarri
Shangri-La Hotel, Capresse Restaurant, 18th floor • Natalia Rettich • XinZhu Yu
10:00 am-12:00 pm followed by lunch • Karina Shetty • Edith Hummel
*Please check the OWC Mobile App for
If you know of any members who may have left and are not
Events updates listed here, please contact membership@owcbangalore.org
Meredith A Mehra, Vice-President - Membership
8 | The Rangoli − May 2018 www.owcbangalore.org
OWC MEMBER DISCOUNTS
A number of our local business friends offer generous discounts with a valid OWC Membership Card, always show before billing and when
making a reservation. Some other establishments may also provide discount but don't advertise so show your card and ask! Conditions apply
Hotels, Restaurants and Bars Services & Shopping
Caperberry & FAVA, UB City - 10% discount on food and drinks. A la carte Archanna - The Cheese Shop and BOTANICALS - 15% discount on any cheese
menu only and cannot be combined with any other discounts or specials. order or his and hers cosmetics. To order call 7406198106 / 7621939375 for
home deliveries
Chinita Mexican Restraunts, Koramangala and Indiranagar - 10% discount on
Food and Beverages. Not with other discounts. Clarins Skin Spa - Complimentary treatment valued at Rs.1,800 on booking
of any Clarins Tri Active Face or Body Treatment on first visit.
Chocolate De Lux, UB City Collection Mall - Discount of 20%
EKA - Near Ulsoor Lake - 10% discount
Ciclo Cafe, Indiranagar - 20% on Food, 10% on Liquor. No other discount
allowed. Five Oceans Club – Discounted Membership for OWC Members; Rs. 600
per family (paid annually). Must be a Five Oceans member to receive
Forage Restaurant – 10% discount on food and soft beverages membership pricing on Five Oceans/OWC Events.
Holiday Inn & Suites Bangalore - 20% discount on Food & Beverages and Spa Hamilton Realtors – 10% discount
services. Not available on discounted offers.
Heler Skin, Hair & Lifestyle - Complimentary Medical Hydration Facial valued
ITC Gardenia - 20% discount on food and beverages. Not to be combined with Rs.3,999 on undertaking any Aesthetic Treatments.
any specials or major Holidays.
INTEREM International Removal Division of Freight Systems India Pvt Ltd. -
ITC Windsor – 15% discount on food and beverages. Not to be combined with 10% discount
any promotions or major Holidays at the hotel.
Jiva Spa, Vivanta by Taj, MG Road - 25% discount on all spa and salon
Lavonne Café, Domlur - 10% discount in the Cafe, except specialist cakes. services Monday to Thursday 11am to 3pm
Leela Palace – 15% discount across all outlets and 20% discount on Thursdays Jiva Spa, Vivanta By Taj, Whitefield, Yeshwantpur and International Airport -
at Citrus excluding alcoholic beverages. 15% discount
LEELA RESORTS - Leela Palace, Udaipur. - 15% discount for The Leela Getaway Jiva Grande Spa and Salon, Taj West End Hotel - 20% discount. Cannot be
Offers for The Leela Palace Udaipur. Reservation only through our hotel combined with other offers or on major holidays.
website www.theleela.com by using the promo code LGOWC
Jean-Claude Biguine Salon – 20% discount at JCB Salons in India
Marriot, Whitefield – 15% discount on food and beverages but not applicable
to WBC Retail outlet. Montage, Vittal Mallya Road – 15% discount on framing and all artwork
Marzipan Cafe and Bakery - Ulsoor Road & Raintree offer 10% discount, The Mimosa Artist Studio, Koramangala – 15% Discount off all paintings by
Sanctuary (Hospital Road) 20% discount. MiniArora. By appointment 9845003583
NANDO'S – 15% discount Mirrors and Within - 10% discount
Novotel, Bengaluru Techpark – 10% discount at The Square - brunch buffet, a la Navrathan Jewellers & Antiqueart – 25% discount on making charges for
carte and soft drinks. Not valid on specials and holiday deals. jewellery purchased in-house. Ask about free coins with purchases of gold,
silver and diamonds.
Park Plaza Bengaluru Hotel Marathahalli - 15% Food. Ask about additional
discounts at restaurants OneRoze (Bespoke florals & luxury hampers): Ub City , level 2 - 10%
discount on florals and 15% on bulk festive hamper orders, call 7022262000
Portland Steakhouse & Café – 10% discount on food for deliveries.
SBARRO – 10% discount for a group of 5 to 9 people, 15% for 10 or more Polished Nail Studio. The Boutique Nail Studio. Indiranagar. - 10% Discount
people on regular menu items on all services billed above Rs 899/-.
Shangri-La Hotel, Bangalore – 15% discount on food and beverages. Ritz-Carlton Spa, Bangalore – 15% discount
Taj Bangalore - Int'l Airport- 15% discount on food and soft beverages at most Roche Bobois and Maison by International Furniture Brands, Ulsoor Road -
restaurants. Lunch for minimum 10 Pax @ Rs 1000+Taxes pp, 3 courses plus 30% Discount
mocktail at Café 77 East (Weekdays Only). Not to be combined with other
specials or on major holidays. S2 Spa by Emma – 20% discount on massages and spa treatments
TAJ WEST END HOTEL - 15% discount on food & soft beverages, max group of Sancha Tea Boutique, Lavelle Road - 10% discount
10. Not valid on major holidays. Cannot be combined with other offers.
Smaash - Phoenix Marketcity Mall, Whitefield Main Rd. and Lido mall 1 MG
The Druid Garden Restaurant – 15% discount on food and soft beverages. Road – 15% bonus on games and 15% discount on food and soft beverages.
Cannot be combined with other specials or major holidays. 10% discount on party packages (min 10 pax)
The Grand Mercure - 10% discount on food & soft beverage at our All day Sohum Spa, Mövenpick – 10% discount
dining restaurant 12th Main valid till 31st Dec, 2018 to all OWC members.
Thar Handicrafts Gallery - 10% discount, cannot be combined with any other
The Oberoi Bengaluru - 15% discount on food and soft beverages. Discount not offer
available for Sunday brunch or lunch, speicals or major holidays.
The Rolling Pin - 10% discount on traditional European breads & desserts
The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore – 15% discount on food and beverages in all
The Palms Spa, Nandi Durga Road - 15% discount on massages, facials,
restaurants for party size of 8 or less. Discount not valid on major holidays.
scrubs, manicure, pedicure, The Matrix Therapy etc. Valid 7 days a week
Toscano, VR Mall and Whitefield Restaurants Only – 10% discount from 10am to 8pm
Vivanta By Taj, M G Road – 10% discount on food and soft beverages, includes
a la carte and regular buffet including sunday brunch
Vivanta By Taj, Whitefield - 15% discount
Vivanta By Taj, Yeshwantpur - 15% discount on Sunday brunch and 20% rack
room rate discount. La Patisserie - 15 % Discount
The OWC is not responsible for cancellations or changes made by the vendors
The Rangoli − May 2018 | 9
FOCUS ON CHARITY
Why We Do
What We Do:
The 2018 Charity Grant
Allocation Process
By
Sharon Otmar
Sometimes it can seem as though the OWC great detail to be able to recommend appropriate and necessary
funding to the OWC Trustees and the Executive Committee. The
is constantly asking us, the membership, for first step is to figure out roughly how much money we have to
money. Whether it’s membership renewal, donate. Every year it differs depending on the amount we raised
throughout the year through the OWC’s various fundraising
a donation for the Holiday Gift or Food efforts. If it’s a good year financially, the charities benefit, and if
Drives, a cover fee to enter the Christmas it’s not, then the grants will be negatively affected. This is why
the support of the membership is so key.
Bazaar or tickets to India Night, we are
constantly shelling out money. During the grant process, we keep in frequent contact with
A
the charities, requesting clarification if needed, advocating
nd we happily do so because we know we for their slice of the pie with the committee, meeting with key
are part of an amazing organization which stakeholders to better understand workflow, and to determine
supports 20 local charities, which in turn are how the items requested fit in with the charity’s mission. We
able to do their incredible work for those choose to fund items based on a variety of criteria that range
most in need in Bangalore. But specifically, from the amount of funding we have to distribute in a given
where does the money go? Who receives year, the amount of funding they received from us in prior years,
it, and what do they use it for? And does it really matter if I how well funded or not well funded the charity is, whether
don’t attend the fundraising events? Does my contribution the charity really needs the item, have they really thought the
really matter? Having had the pleasure of my first charity grant request through, and do they have the infrastructure and staff
process, I’m now in a position to say, YES! And I will share with to support it? This process is an art, not a science, thus, we have
you exactly where it goes, who it benefits, and how the grant to be extremely detail-oriented to ensure that the membership’s
allocation process works. money is put to the best use possible.
Every January our OWC supported charities are asked to submit Some items that were asked for this year by OWC charities were
applications to the Charities Committee for funding. Once these outdoor play equipment for the mentally challenged and autistic
applications are received, the committee spends hours (this children at Shristi Special Academy, school tuition for physically
year we met for 20 hours!) in meetings discussing them all in challenged, blind and/or deaf children supported by ProVision
10 | The Rangoli − May 2018FOCUS ON CHARITY
Asia, and an industrial washing machine for formerly homeless Dear Ms. Sharon:
who have been literally picked up off the streets by New Ark.
Vishwas' children and the trustees wish to acknowledge most gratefully
During the next step we send our recommendations to the your kind and generous donations in the past to our children's welfare.
Trustees and Executive Committee, who have one week to We, the trustees and the staff of Vishwas, are committed to ensure that
the children get all possible opportunities to realise their full potential.
review them before the Charities Committee meets with them.
Your partnership with us on a consistent basis has been most inspiring
During this meeting, we present our recommendations, and the
to all of us.
OWC Trustees and EC have a chance to ask any final questions,
and can either approve our recommendations or disapprove We appreciate the sincerity of members of OWC in seeing our children
them. Happily, this year all of the Charities Committee’s grow up to be healthy, happy, and productive human beings. It is not
recommendations were approved! I could not wait to tell only the money you give, but also, most importantly, the fact that
my charities, and in response to an email I sent to Bangalore you care about our kids. May you and your dear ones know that our
children, as they grow up, will be the testament of all our efforts, and
Hospice Trust, I received this response from the CEO, which
your contributions are a vital part of this accomplishment.
shows how much our OWC support means to our charities:
Vishwas achieved one major milestone this year. Madhavi, the girl who
“My heartfelt thanks to you and all the wonderful members
has been with us since about 15 years, completed her Engineering and is
of the OWC and in particular the EC for this very generous
now employed at Tech Mahindra, a leading software company.
donation. What a wonderful way of compassionate giving to the
local community. Each one of you is an affirmation of the innate Other Vishwas children continue to do well. Amrutha passed out from
goodness that lies within every human heart.” 10th std with 97% and two other girls passed out with over 75%. One
boy also passed out of NTTF after completing his Diploma course and is
The letter below from the Trustee of Helpline, a home now gainfully employed.
for orphaned, abused and abandoned children, further
All the school children moved to the next grade, and currently 6 children are
demonstrates why we do what we do, and how vital our work
in the 10th standard, and we expect the majority of them to do very well.
really is.
Children are now being formally trained in Robotics, for which we have
arranged for a tutor. This is not part of school curriculum, but we think
exposure to robotics will help in the long run.
Children are regularly sent for football coaching, and they participate in
friendly matches.
Children attended a residential yoga camp for 10 days. This apart from
learning yoga, has also helped in them bonding together very well.
To sustain the interest we have arranged for yoga classes once a week.
Based on the academic performance, tutors are focusing on areas of
improvement for every individual child. This we are sure will help in the
children doing better in studies.
Thank you once again to the committee and all the members.
A huge thanks to you, the membership, for all that you
do to help the charities who do such important work for
the citizens of Bangalore. If you would like to participate
in the grant process for 2019, please consider joining the
Charities Committee. We would love to explain more in
person. Stop by our Charities desk at Leela on Thursdays
from 10-12 am, or email us at
charities@owcbangalore.org.
The Rangoli − May 2018 | 11FEATURE
Shilpa
This year we celebrated International
Women’s day with a special guest, Shilpa
Raj. Shilpa is a twenty-four-year-old, who
Antony Raj: entrusted the adventures of her life to an
autobiography that starts from her birth
A Strong, up to the present day. She chose to share
her story in order to shed light on her
Formidable background and to give voice to a group of
people in India who usually do not get heard.
I
Woman By
Sara Marassi
n addition to her book, Shilpa’s story is also highlighted
in the four-part Netflix documentary 'Daughters of
Destiny,' that tells about Shanti Bhavan Children’s
Projects, a pioneering school founded in 1997 in
A Talk with the writer of 'The Bangalore by the Indian-American businessman
Elephant Chaser’s Daughter' Abraham George.
Our meeting began with the showing of the part of the first
chapter of the series: 'The Untouchables'. The documentary
explains the unjust social order that has been rooted in India
for over one thousand years that condemns over twenty-
five percent of Indians to remain in poverty. Despite its
constitutional abolition, the customs surrounding untouchables
in society is still found in many places in India. The resulting
deprivation and discrimination is both social and economic,
which precludes Dalit women to a hard life.
Shilpa explained to us that she inherited the Dalit, or
untouchable status. However, at the age of four, she had the
privilege and amazing luck of being selected to study at Shanti
Bhavan. This coed school was created to break the cycle of
poverty and to address inequalities in rural villages by providing
a free quality education to twelve boys and twelve girls each
year. The premise being that one child could lift their family
up with them through their educational achievements and
economic prospects.
Watching the documentary, it was very emotional and touching
to hear the rural village children speaking about their journey to
this faraway school, and to see them leave everything they knew
for this new life at Shanti Bhavan.
The writing of her book allowed Shilpa to understand her own
experiences because, at the time she left her home she was
only a child and she didn’t understand the changes in her life.
12 | The Rangoli − May 2018FEATURE
Shilpa spoke maturely and honestly, with the awareness of a completely different path from her siblings. Shilpa’s father’s
person who had survived sacrifices and unhappy events. Talking choice gave her an opportunity to break free from the shackles
about her parents and siblings, she painted a realistic picture of of social norms that dragged her mother and sister down.
her family and where she came from. In her village, the women
Consequently, such change also meant great pressure on her and
are married young, and her mother had to make the choice to
other kids’ shoulders. For they were the first in their family to go
leave the family to work as a maid. In Shilpa’s autobiography, all
to college and to work for multinational companies. They grew
hardships, the constant despair, the bonded labor, the domestic
up with a new self-confidence that made them feel they could
abuse from alcohol use with her father and grandfather, and the
face up to any kind of challenge. And they became an ideal for
dreams of achieving future riches have been brilliantly translated
their siblings and friends who remained behind and attended
into words.
government schools in their villages.
The firsts chapters of the book reveal that the way to Shanti
How did she manage? Shilpa recounts, 'Growing up in an
Bhavan was not easy at all. First, she met with the reluctance
environment in which every mistake, every decision, every exam
of her mother, Sarophina, who did not want to leave her first
had a higher price' since it 'reflected on your family' took its toll.
daughter to the care of total strangers. The documentary
However, she knew, 'I cannot simply give up and lie down'.
dealt with villagers’ judgements, rumours and suspicions. And
sending her to school collided with the common acceptance of Though her education and support from Shanti Bhavan helped
a woman’s destiny which is 'living about serving her husband her, it created a personal and cultural rift between Shilpa and
and bearing his children.' The inferior way in which women are her immediate family. Shilpa and the other Shanti Bhavan
treated in her village made it hard to digest and equally hard to children shuttled between two opposite lives: the scholastic
understand how this cultural norm is still in practice today. residence life on one side, and their traditional village family life
on the other. For her, the two very different worlds collided in
Notwithstanding all these obstacles, Shilpa’s father decided
the core of her being.
to send her to Shanthi Bhavan. His choice made it possible for
her to grow up better educated. And her new experiences at She felt guilt and uncertainty as to her proper place. She had
the coed environment where girls were made to feel equal to two choices: to keep looking back with a constant complaint or
boys changed her as a human being. All of this took her on a to take all the good that came along for a better future. Shilpa
The Rangoli − May 2018 | 13FEATURE
chose to decide the fate of her own life and to keep moving an untouchable community have to undergo every day. For
forward. Her desire to become a pychologist stems from her her and the other students of Shanti Bhavan, they grew up in
own turmoils and her sister’s tragic end. an environment that contrasted with traditional expectations
of their villages. Yet, they are part of a path to progress
Shilpa mustered courage to talk about her personal life because
for disenfranchised groups who do not have access to the
she felt it was better for others to understand the feelings of
advantages of the middle class in India.
denial, pain, shame, and confusion she had experienced. She has
turned her personal story into a symbol of the grief of an entire In case you are lucky to meet Shilpa Raj in person, just give her a
people who are ruled and discarded as untouchables even today. hug and try to spread out her story as much as possible.
As for the next chapter, Shilpa proudly explained how she is
studying for her master’s degree in psychology. As an example
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/28/arts/television/
of how far she has moved in a different world, when she told
daughters-of-destiny-netflix-tv-review.html
her father about her degree program, he didn’t know what
psychology was. Her story makes it very evident that there’s a https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2017/jul/27/
gap between her and her parents. Yet she tells of their pride and daughters-of-destiny-review-a-documentary-full-of-hope-and-
acceptance of her new life too. adorable-children
I thoroughly enjoyed her talk, and learned so much. In addition, https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35661389-the-
I recommend her book highly. It is masterfully narrated, elephant-chaser-s-daughter
and Shilpa’s writing style brings you into her world, without
http://authorinterviews.net/conversations/shilpa-raj/
discounting it. Shilpa's memoir speaks for those who are almost
voiceless. It relates the troubles and torment that people in http://theindianauthors.in/interviews/shilpa-raj-interview/
14 | The Rangoli − May 2018FEATURE The Rangoli − May 2018 | 15
EVENTS
The OWC Easter
Egg Hunt and Family
Fun Day!
By
Lisa Roenstrom
This fun and delicious event
took place on March 17, 2018
from 10am to 2pm.
OWC volunteers made the day
very special for all the kids
by planning fun games and
having yummy treats. A special
thank you to the Canadian
International School for
hosting this event and to our
Events Committee for making
it all happen!
16 | The Rangoli − May 2018A
Your Attendance is Requested
HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
OWC >> AGM 2018
Wednesday, 9th May
G
From 10am-2pm
The AGM will be held at the Hilton Hotel Embassy GolfLinks.
The meeting portion is 10 to 12 and LunchBunch immediately following.
INR 1650 pp all-inclusive
> Tea/Coffee/Cookies on arrival
> Buffet Lunch at the poolside
M
/restaurant
This is a members only event.
RSVP
activities@owcbangalore.org, at any OWC Coffee Morning, on the OWC
Mobile app or through the OWC Emailer link.
We will draw for Door Prizes,
but you must be present to win!
I N D I A N SUMMER BAZAAR
S AT U R D AY 2 J U N E 2 0 1 8
Come to spend the day shopping with over 40 unique and creative
vendors. While visiting the vendors, don’t forget to check out the many
specials being offered at the Phoenix Marketcity on Whitefield Main Road
Where: Phoenix Marketcity
When: Saturday, 2nd June 2018
Time: 12:00pm to 6:00pm
For more information contact:
summerbazaar@owcbangalore.org
A FUNDRAISING EVENT OF THE
O V E R S E A S W O M E N ’ S C L U B O F B A N G A LThe
O R Rangoli
E − May 2018 | 17Every year, the OWC donates vital, non-perishable food items to some
of our supported charities to ease the costs of feeding the vulnerable.
EVENTS
Give with us and help make a real
difference!
BUY... ...DROP... ...GIVE
Simply buy some of Hand over your Or contribute cash at
the much-needed items at one of OWC coffee
groceries from the our drop locations mornings or via the
list below. by 31st May. online link below.
Give
https
://ww
O nline
w.pay
ronts umon
Food Drive /#/ind
ex/fo
ey.co
ordriv
m/we
bf
e2018
Shopping List
Sona masoori rice - 5 kg
Tur/toor dal - 1 kg
Sugar - 1 kg
Sunflower refined oil - 5 ltr bottle
Atta (wholewheat flour) - 5 kg
*Please only give these exact amounts.
Food Drive Drop Locations
NORTH - Monica Dexter, No. 69, 5th Cross, 1st Blk,
2nd Stage, RMV Extension, 560094. Call Srini, 984 565
8032, for directions. No need to call to confirm drop
off in advance.
SOUTH - Sharon Otmar, Villa 12 Adarsh Palm Retreat
Community, Bellandur. Call 961 115 2808
CENTRAL SOUTH - Janice Bluett-Duncan, New Kabini
Hostel, NIMHANS, Hombegowda Nagar, 560029. Call
994 596 8980
WHITEFIELD - Gail Hogg, Villa 1, Phase 1, Palm
Meadows. Call 962 029 2224
18 | The Rangoli − May 2018
For queries contact Food Drive coordinator Janice: +91 99 459 689 80FESTIVALS
What is
CINCO DE
MAYO,
Anyway?
By
Elizabeth Simon
If you have ever been in the USA during the officially the day that the Mexicans won a next to impossible
battle against the French in 1862 at the Battle of Puebla. Unlike
first week of May you may have seen many St Patrick’s Day, it is not a nationally recognized holiday in
brightly colored Latin American restaurants Mexico (as St Paddy’s in Ireland) and is recognized more within
the US than it is in Mexico, as September 16 is actually Mexican
and bars sporting cheap Margaritas and Independence Day.
Coronas on May the 5th. If you’ve stepped So why was this holiday appropriated so strongly by the Mexican
into one of these establishments, you may American population? Like most issues, many factors may
have been attributed to influencing the celebration of Cinco
have been privy to the celebration of all de Mayo. The first, possibly being timing. At the time when
this battle was being fought, we had a very strong Chicano
things Mexican while drinking a LOT of population (Mexicans born and raised within American borders)
alcohol. But the whole time you may have in the Southwest of the country who were VERY impressed
with the strength of the Pueblan people: a symbol of strength
been wondering, why the party? for Mexicans. Also, the battle was against the French, who had
Y
been one of the benefactors of the Confederacy in the Civil
ou may have noticed even, that it seems an War that was currently threatening to tear America apart. Most
awful lot like St Patrick’s Day with a little more controversially, some consider it just to be the effect of great
red and white thrown in with the celebration. advertising. Half-priced tequila shots and imported beer can
There’s a very good reason for that: Cinco still bring in a lot of money for local and national bar/restaurant
de Mayo has become as much of a day of chains - any excuse to get Americans out to drink will usually
result in great sales.
celebration of Mexican-American pride (and
lots of drinking) in much the same way as St Patrick’s Day has for That being said, I’m a huge fan of the party and celebration of
Irish-Americans. Latin American pride. As the parent of a Latin American boy,
I love any chance to celebrate any part of Latin America in
The difference between the two is the origin and what the United States, especially given the political climate there
appropriations have been made. St Patrick’s Day started in these days. On Cinco de Mayo, I hope to sit by a pool with a
Ireland for Irish Catholic people and continues to this day to be margarita in hand, nachos near the other, listening to some great
a celebration of the same. Cinco de Mayo (the fifth of May) was raggaeton, gosando. ¡Viva la fiesta!
The Rangoli − May 2018 | 19EVENTS 20 | The Rangoli − May 2018
PASSION AND PURPOSE
Links for Migrant Children
— Providing Access to Health and Nutrition for India’s Most
Vulnerable — OWC Members at Work By
Cheryl Greene
concentrated their effort in the Munnekollal, Krishnappa Garden,
and Nagavarapalya Communities.
With the help of other volunteers, they conduct monthly
health checks for children 0-6 years of age that attend the
local Anganwadis in these migrant communities, and often go
door to door as well. In addition, Sara, Sharon, and Urvi have
organized other important initiatives here, such as incorporating
government vaccination campaigns because migrants are often
overlooked by the government run Primary Health Centers.
A few recent initiatives were Pulse Polio vaccination days,
deworming campaigns, and general health and vaccination
camps for all the children under 6. Links makes important
relationships within these communities to build the families’
trust. By partnering with government agencies, local private
hospitals, and other nonprofit agencies, LMC has made some
amazing strides to help improve migrant children’s lives and give
them a better future.
According to a recent study published by the World Health
Organization, “There are almost 1 billion migrants worldwide,
with 214 million international migrants and another 740
In 2017, three expat women, got together and million internal migrants moving within countries”1. In India
organized visits to migrant children in camps alone, internal migration is estimated at 400 million people,
and effects women and children the most. To put that number
in Bangalore to see how they could help in in perspective that is more than the combined populations of
some small way. Out of these first visits, the United States, Canada, and Australia. With just about 30%
of India’s population living in migrant communities too many
Links for Migrant Children, a local nonprofit in children are not receiving what they need to thrive. We see
Bangalore, was started by Sara Janssen, Urvi many of these migrant communities and the families that live
there on our daily commutes. The blue tarps and haphazard
Jariwala Shah, and Sharon Otmar. partial brick structures that we drive by are the homes to
T
thousands of families working and living in poverty all around
heir goal is to reach out to the youngest us. In cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, these
children of migrant communities in Bangalore communities comprise a large part of the local population. With
because the babies and children in migrant all the economic growth in Bangalore, you might be asking why
communities are the most vulnerable to is it happening here?
hunger, malnutrition, disease, and lack of In a report by the United Nations and Unesco for Community
education. For the most part, they have Radio they explain,
1
World Health Organization, “Improving the Health and Well-Being of Children of Migrant Workers.”
(1 April 2018). http://www.who.int/bulletin/volumes/95/12/17-196329/en/
The Rangoli − May 2018 | 21PASSION AND PURPOSE
offer help in the form of informal pre-school education
In India, states such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, programs for children before they enter government schools.
They disperse government food, as well as some healthcare.
Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, The Anganwadi workers help with pregnant mothers and
Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, post-natal care as well. Unfortunately, Anganwadi workers are
Odisha, and Tamil Nadu are seen as source overwhelmed by the sheer numbers that need help, and sadly,
they are not paid equally to other government workers. This
states, from which a large number of people underfunding of a vital program for migrant communities means
move out in search of better opportunities. the programs don’t accomplish as much as they could, leaving
Delhi, Mumbai, Maharashtra, Gujarat, too many migrant children behind.
Haryana, Punjab, and Karnataka are seen That’s where Links for Migrant Children is trying to make a
as destination states, where many of these difference. They are filling a vital gap in the most basic healthcare
migrants go.2 for the youngest children. Malnutrition, disease, and undiagnosed
and untreated health problems mean migrant children don’t fare
as well. They can fail to meet their growth milestones and are
Bangalore’s growth in the last 5-10 years has attracted millions generally underweight. And a lack of proper nutrition is a problem
of new people, most don’t speak Kannada, and they often lose for their developing brains at their young age.
critical government aide when they move to a new state. The founders of LMC have helped hundreds in a short time.
While the issue of internal migration in India has reached epic In February of 2018, Sarah, Sharon, and Urvi organized
their volunteers to participate in 'National Deworming Day'.
proportions, it is not a new problem. Trying to deal with this
Overlooked by 'government sponsored medical dispersement
issue nationwide, the Indian government aimed to provide
programs,' Munnekullal benefitted from 'the amazing Links for
better standards of health for migrant families back in 1975.
Migrant Children volunteers, a government health inspector,
Called Anganwadis, they were created by the Indian Government a social worker and teachers from Simridhdhi Trust's Bridge
as a part of the Integrated Child and Development Services Program, over 300 children in Munnekullal and a nearby school
Program. With the aim to alleviate child hunger and malnutrition received deworming medication, parasite prevention education,
in rural areas, migration camps and slums in cities, Anganwadis nutritious snacks, soap for effective hygiene, and were assessed
2
Unesco, “Internal Migration: A Manual for Community Radio Stations,” (1 April
2018). http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0023/002318/231862E.pdf
22 | The Rangoli − May 2018PASSION AND PURPOSE
Working in Bangalore’s migrant communities and providing
vaccinations means Links’ small grass-roots programs are
preventing future suffering often associated with many diseases
like polio or measles, and studies show that better health
outcomes improve educational opportunities for these migrant
children too.
Before founding Links, OWC members, Sharon and Urvi were
working with local Anganwadis, and Sarah was a volunteer nurse
for Sunshine school, a French association that supports hygiene
projects in slum schools as well as working with other NGOs.
When she met Urvi and Sharon, the three of them decided to
focus primarily on health and nutrition for children in Bangalore’s
migrant camps. While most internal migrants are often denied
basic human rights, these three hard working expats are helping
the women and children who live in these communities feel more
at home with their well planned health checks and by providing
the most basic necessities to their survival.
3
LMC Facebook. (5 April 2018). https://www.facebook.com/
linksformigrantchildren/
4
LMC Facebook. (1April 2018). https://www.facebook.com/
linksformigrantchildren/
5
World Health Organization, “10 Facts on Immunization,” (1 April 2018).
http://www.who.int/features/factfiles/immunization/en/
for malnutrition'3. By providing deworming medicine to kids and
soap to the mothers for proper hygiene, diseases are prevented
and health improves for the entire family.
And only a month later, Links for Migrant Children held a very
successful 'Polio Vaccine Campaign' in Munnekollal migrant
community. In one day, due to partnering with local volunteers
as well as community members they were able 'to bring
the pulse polio vaccine to over 320 children in this migrant
community. In addition to setting up a vaccine camp in one of
the empty shelters, mobile teams went door-to-door vaccinating
children'4. They partnered with Sahayya NGO, who brought
‘healthy snacks’ as well as other key medical professionals who
donated the medicine.
While Links for Migrant Children is still a rather new enterprise
for these three expats—their work is the key to a healthy future
for these kids. Immunization programs provide invaluable health
prevention measures. The World Health Organization states,
There is arguably no single preventive
health intervention more cost-effective than
immunization5.
The Rangoli − May 2018 | 23CULTURE
Celebrating Royal Birthdays By
-An Evening of Royal Traditions Smita Agrawal
On March 24, 2018, the Ritz-Carlton
Bangalore hosted an evening of Royal
Traditions that celebrated the 26th
Birthday of the 27th Maharaja (King) of
Mysore and current head of the Wadiyar
dynasty, Maharaja Yaduveer Krishnadatta
Chamaraja Wadiyar.
T
he Who’s Who of Bangalore attended this
event amidst vast media coverage. I was
privileged to witness and be part of this grand
celebration. It commenced with an inaugural
Mashaal (Torch) Lighting Ceremony by the
Maharaja at the lawns of the Ritz-Carlton —
with a flourish of drums and synchronized champagne sabering,
he marked the auspicious day, that was also celebrated as ‘Earth
Hour’ all across the globe.
24 | The Rangoli − May 2018CULTURE
Delving into the History of the
Mysore Dynasty
After the former scion of Mysuru, His Highness Srikantadatta
Narasimharaja Wadiyar died in December 2013 leaving behind
no heirs, his wife Her Highness Pramoda Devi, formally adopted
Yaduveer Urs (born as Yaduveer Gopal Raj, the only son of
Swarup Anand Gopal Raj, a member of the Wadiyar family,
and Princess Tripurasundari Devi, niece of the late Maharaja
Srikantadatta Wadiyar) in February 2015, and named him the
late scion’s successor. This adoption made him the natural son
of Maharaja Srikantadatta Wadiyar and Maharani Pramoda Devi
The hotel and its lawns came alive with this celebration in a way Wadiyar, and he was formally renamed Yaduveer Krishnadatta
I have never witnessed before, and it made me proud to be a Chamaraja Wadiyar.
resident of Bangalore. At that moment, I felt I was in a special
and unique spot in the Indian subcontinent. The presence of the He received his initial education in Bangalore at Vidya Niketan
Maharaja attired in a dashing dark violet suit and flashing royal School and then at the Canadian International School. He
diamond studded earrings and his wife, Her Highness Trishika obtained an undergraduate degree in English literature and
Kumari Devi, the former Princess of Dungarpur (Rajasthan), now economics from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
the Maharani of Mysore, made everything about the hotel that With his coronation ceremony on May 28, 2015, he became, at
evening feel magical. 23, the twenty-seventh maharaja of the Kingdom of Mysore. On
After the initial ceremony, the highlight of the evening was June 27, 2016, over a year after his coronation, Yaduveer Wadiyar
a scintillating performance by the acclaimed Sivamani on married Trishikha Kumari, daughter of Harshvardhan Singh and
percussion, accompanied by U Rajesh on mandolin and Harmeet Maheshree Kumari of the Dungarpur, a royal family from Rajasthan.
Manseta on keyboard. Sivamani, is an acclaimed percussionist The Kingdom of Mysore was a kingdom in southern India,
who plays many instruments including drums, octoban, darbuka, traditionally believed to have been founded in 1399 and was
udukai, ghatam, and kanjira. U Rajesh is one of the most sought ruled by the Wodeyar family. The kingdom reached the height of
after classical artists in India and was the youngest participant of its economic and military power and dominion in the latter half
the Magic Mandolin Festival in Germany in the '80s and is credited of the 18th century under the de facto ruler Haider Ali and his
with a performance at the Lincoln Center in New York as well. son Tipu Sultan and is now a part of the State of Karnataka.
From fire displays and Indian classical music to perfect sparkling
wines, I was swept up in the night’s traditions which showcased
the best of what Bangalore has to offer.
Closing notes
The Mashaal Lighting at the Ritz-Carton will continue as
a daily ritual with blazing fire torches lining the walkway
leading up to the hotel at 7 pm. This riwaz (tradition)
is slated to become a must watch ceremony and is one
cultural event that I highly recommend everyone try
to witness in person in the coming days. The lighting
ceremony will signify the dramatic convergence of
nature’s 5 elements, space, air, fire, water, and earth.
The waterbody (water) lining the walkway reflected by
a line of blazing torches (Fire), fanned upwards by the
evening winds (Air), will remain with guests as glowing
#RCMemories.
The Rangoli − May 2018 | 25COOKING
Seasonal Fruits for a
Healthier Life! By
Sameera Fernandes
A recent trip to the Madivala fruit and should feel heavy for its size. Look for the yellow spot:
watermelons develop a splotch where they rest on the ground.
vegetable market turned out to be quite When this splotch is creamy yellow, it's ripe. Give it a thump: tap
exciting for our family. The children were the underbelly of the watermelon. A ripe one will have a deep
hollow sound. Under-ripe or over-ripe melons will sound dull.
so excited to see brightly coloured seasonal These fruits are packed with potassium, vitamin A and C, so do
fruits such as mangoes, chickoos, papayas, consume in plenty.
grapes, guavas, pomegranates, musk It’s the mango season too! Ideal places where varieties of
melons, and watermelons. We ended up mangoes can be purchased at wholesale rates include the KR
Market, Madivala fruit market or near the Jaymahal/TV Tower.
carrying boxes homes.
D
Varieties such as the Raspuri, Sendura, Totapuri, Mallika,
uring a brief conversation with the fruit Alphonso, Malgova, and Neelam are expected to arrive shortly.
seller, I learnt that not only do these fruits Don’t forget that the Lalbagh Botanical Gardens features a
and vegetables taste fresh when they are in Mango and Jackfruit festival too. Organized by the Department
season, there are a host of other benefits too. of Horticulture and the Karnataka State Mango Development
Since they do not require transportation over Marketing Corporation Limited (KSMDMCL) every year, this
long distances, the freshness is contained and festival orients visitors and fruit lovers to the joys of the fruits
they taste better. and the varieties that are available in the state.
My personal favourite has always been the watermelon. For all those who would like to experience the varieties of mango
The best part is that they are easily available and one of the that the state of Karnataka has to offer, a trip to the Mango and
healthiest to have as well. There is a definite art to pick out the Jackfruit festival at the Lalbagh Botanical Gardens has been
sweetest and juiciest watermelons. Big or small, the watermelon planned. Reach out to the Nature Lovers Club to know more.
26 | The Rangoli − May 2018HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
The Monday Morning
Commitment By
Terry Anne Wilson
Yet we discovered that as the months progressed, our writing
turned to myriad subjects including loss of identify of our children
(and us), rootlessness, anxiety and depression, ageing parents,
health and wellness, traumatic childhood experiences, and creating
homes for our families against an ever-changing backdrop. There
was also much joy to write of both past and present.
Comments since the book launch, in The Hague, affirm that our
stories resonate and offer guidance and for this we are thankful.
We realized from the outset that our honest and emotional
exchange needed our loved ones’ understanding of our mission:
to enlighten, to offer solace, to remind families that they are not
alone in navigating the challenges of an overseas life. I recall a
poignant comment from my twenty-one-year-old.
“Mom I don’t mind if you write my story. If it can help someone not
In May of last year, a friend and I decided go through what I did, or help parents, then I’m happy to do that.”
to write to each other every Monday for six Andrew’s story is one often experienced among young adults
who had never lived in their passport country, but return
months. The result is our newly published for university then struggle to define identity and personal
book, Monday Morning Emails. We often narrative. For our son, it took a failed year of university, a stint
in the Canadian military and menial work before eventual return
penned our ‘letters’ on the move from to study. His is just one story, a cautionary tale of preparing your
France, Canada, England, Wales, and from children for re-entry.
home in the Netherlands and here in India. Monday Morning Emails not only offers life experience from us, as
authors, but we also called upon eight experts. These psychologists,
We had made a commitment to write; educational consultants, mentors and veteran expats, offer their
wisdom and analysis. This includes poignant quotes.
wherever we happened to be and through
My favourite? Perhaps this one by Becky Grappo. “Perfect
whatever we were personally experiencing. families only exist in fiction. Real families have conflict. They
That was the essence - we both knew the struggle. They fight. But strong families, even with imperfect
parents and imperfect kids, always come back to the table to
therapeutic power of writing.
A
keep working on that imperfect institution we call family.”
t first, we thought our book would mostly be And so, as we leave Bangalore at the end of April it is with much
about the empty nest stage. Between the two fondness. Yet I believe in turning the page and using these first
of us, Jo Parfitt and I have raised 5 sons in 12 steps as an author to write the next chapter, wherever this
different countries, supporting our husband’s journey takes us.
careers while circling the globe from the US
to Oman, Malaysia to Qatar, The Netherlands Monday Morning Emails is published by Summertime Publishing
to India. The topic of how we viewed our futures after those Terry Anne Wilson is an author, speaker, and blogger at
parenting years was part of our initial conversation. notesonaboardingpass.wordpress.com
The Rangoli − May 2018 | 27TRAVEL
Jaipur
Exploring the Wonders of the
Pink City, Again and Again
By
Julie Sall
Our very first internal trip in India was our experience that day. Luckily, we were able to ask questions
about what was going on and why, and to see the exuberance
to Jaipur, April 2016, just a month after of the celebrants as they doused us and themselves in color.
we moved here from the US. It was That was two years ago, and we joined the family last month to
celebrate again — ending up very purple!
to celebrate Holi, the festival of color.
Since arriving in India, we have tried to travel once a month
We wanted to be where the holiday is because time passes quickly, and there is so much to see.
celebrated to the fullest and Jaipur came However, Jaipur has captured our hearts, and we have been back
through. The vibrancy and joy with which at least four times (I’ve lost track) with different things to see
and experience each time.
the city and people celebrated the holiday
You can fly directly to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, from
was a treat, but what made it even more Bangalore in 2.5 hours. Another way to get there is from Delhi
special, was participating in the activities — from there it is only an hour flight or a five-hour drive. Jaipur
is in the desert and that is a blessing and a curse. History shows
with a local Rajasthani family. that the Rajasthanis were very shrewd, building Amer Fort
W
to protect the city, marrying a daughter to a warring Mughal
e were fortunate to get emperor for political partnership, and developing alternate
introduced to Annpurna industries since farming there wasn’t an option.
Rathore, a local Northern Indian
In the early 1700s, Maharaj Jai Singh II laid the foundation for the
tour guide, who invited us to
well-ordered city that Jaipur is today. A brilliant scientist, he built
join her family. No other holiday
the city, and divided it into blocks, some for official use, but most
celebration has lived up to for the public. It is ‘relatively’ easy to get around and find each
28 | The Rangoli − May 2018You can also read
