Hello, everyone! Thanks for visiting Banjara Times. I am Om Parkash Kamal,  Editor, Banjara Times (Voice of Goaars worldwide). We believe Goaars of India known as Banjaras, Lambanis, Bazigars, Lubanas, Sirkiband, Gawaria, Gawar, Lambadas, Gor, Vanjari, Vanzaras, Sindhi Guaars and many others are from same Dynasty. They have same customs, same Goaar Boli and same Gotras all over India. They don't have any Sections and Sub-Sections. They are Equal and they are GOAARS. No matter Kaurs call us with different names. But we are all Goaars, nothing else.  One more thing about Banjara Times, we are not belonging to any Group/Organisation, any Religion and any  Political Party. We have respect for all, who are working for the development of Goaars. Jai Goaar Ekta!
Your views, articles, reports, photos are welcome.

Our New Email address is: kamaldharamsot@gmail.com

Special Declaration: It is not necessary that the Owner of BANJARATIMES.COM website is agree with the views expressed in news and articles presented on BANJARATIMES.COM website.      
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Dussehra Festival by Goaars

Phagwara, September 28, 2009 (Ritesh Kamal): Dussehra Festival successfully celebrated by Maharana Pratap Kala Manch, Mohalla Dharamkot, Phagwara on September 28, 2009. Dussehra Festival is organized under the direction of Shri Ashok Kamal.

Shri Dharam Pal Dharamsot, President, Maharana Pratap Kala Manch, Phagwara honored Goaar Leaders of Punjab Shri Harbans Lal Lalka (Vartia) from Nabha, Shri Sucha Singh Dharamsot (Samrala), Shri Darshan Lal Dharamsot, President, Dharamsot Welfare Society, Mohalla Dharamkot, Phagwara, Shri Ashok Kamal,  Shri Mulkh Raj Muchhaal, Heeran, Ludhiana, Shri Lakhbir Lakha (Goaar Singer),  Shri Darshan Singh Ludhiana, Shri Dalwinder Dayalpuri (Punjabi Goaar Singer), Shri Hans Raj Lalka, Nabha, Shri Sodhi Dharamsot at Dussehra Festival celebrated by first Goaar Organizing Committee in India. Darshan Lal Dharamsot, President, Dharamsot Welfare Society, Phagwara honored Ex Minister of Punjab Shri Joginder Singh Mann at Dussehra Festival. 
For More details and photos, please click on this link:  Activities-3 
Posted on September 28, 2009---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

First Goaar Hero of the Movie...

Lakhwinder Wadali's Punjabi Movie releasing on October 2, 2009 in theatres of India & abroad

"AKHIYAAN UDEEKDIAN"

Courtesy Advertisement by Website of Goaars: www.banjaratimes.com: Expressing Solidarity with first Goaar Hero of the Movies.

Akhiyan Udeekdian: New film to tackle age-old issue: Jalandhar, September 8 (Aparna Banerji): Though trade pundits in Punjabi cinema signal it’s slowly but consistently inching towards brighter days, there’s no doubt about the fact that there’s still a lot of catching up to do. Hence, every single new release, chalks out a new course (good or bad) for the advancement of Punjabi cinema which, in turn, might make or mar its immediate future.

After Sarbjit Cheema’s “Apni Boli Apna Des”, Punjabi cinema is all set with its new family drama “Akhiyan Udeekdiyan” which will hit theatres soon.

Son of sufi artiste Puran Chand Wadali will be debuting with the movie which has been directed by Mukesh Gautam.

At the movie’s music release on Monday, a sense of déjà vu struck the gathering as it sat surrounded by huge posters of the movie flashing a cowboy-hatted, guitar-swanking Lakhwinder and typical Punjabi-girl-next-door Roshni. A melodramatic chadra-sporting Gugu Gill immediately brought the “main-tere-tote-tote-kar-deyanga” days of Punjabi cinema flooding back to one’s memory.

But the crew claims the cover tells just half the story, it really is different this time. A peek at what the movie gang had to say:

Sukhwinder Sukhi (scriptwriter): “The film is based on reality, not artificiality and is an entertaining family drama. The film deals with the issue of female foeticide.”

His dig at the popular cinema culture in Punjab: “The hero of the film is not an NRI and it doesn’t talk about any NRI issue either.”

Lakhwinder Wadali (male lead): “I never felt I was acting. I guess it comes to me naturally. I am sure the film will touch everyone’s heart.”

Roshni (female lead): “The film has rather been a sort of mission for me given the issue that it deals with.”

Gurmeet Singh (music director): “The music has been made keeping in mind the folk culture of Punjab. Along with that an effort has also been made to introduce some Bollywood element in the movie.”

Lakhwinder’s father Puran Chand Wadali and uncle Pyare Lal Wadali were the surprise package of the evening. (With thanks from "The Tribune")
Posted on September 28, 2009-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Goaars Gathered in Marwar, Rajasthan on Sep. 7-8

Marwar Jn. (District Pali), September 14, 2009: Goaars of Marwar gathered in Banjara Samaj Gurdwara, Marwar Junction, Rajasthan on September 7-8, 2009. Gurbani Shabad Keertan and Sanmaan Samaroh was organized by Guru Nanak Banjara Sangat Navyuvak Mandal. Special Representatives of Goaar Community from all over India attended this function. 

Guru Nanak Banjara Sangat Navyuvak Mandal honored the special Goaar representatives Shri Dilraj Banjara (Gujarat), Shri Om Prakash Nayak (Uttar Pradesh), Advocate Shri Sham Singh Muchhaal (Punjab), Shri Kalyan Mall D.S.P., Shri Harbans Lal Lalka (Punjab), Shri Kashmir Singh Morinda (Punjab), Shri Jagir Singh Patiala (Punjab), Shri Sucha Singh Dharamsot (Punjab).

Giani Rattan Singh from Ahmedabad, Gujarat explained the History of Goaars through the Sikhism. Advocate Sham Singh Muchhaal told the Banjara Times that the Marwar Area is Janam Bhoomi of Goaars. He said that Goaar moved to other areas of India from Marwar due to the living problems occured in this area. He said that only Marwar area have all 16 Gotras of Goaars. He told that mostly all 16 Gotras of Goaars are not living in one area. He said that Goaar Researchers should centralise their research in this area. Advocate Shri Sham Singh Muchhaal also told the Banjara Times that Goaars settled at one place are known as Goaars or Gawaria and Goaars who involved in the Ladeni work or wandering from one place to another place are known as Banjaras. He said that in these days every Goaar is settled at one place. There is no more wandering life. 
 
Information about Marwar: Marwar (also called Jodhpur region) is a region of southwestern Rajasthan state in western India. It lies partly in the Thar Desert. In Rajasthani dialect "wad" means a particular area. The word Marwar is derived from Sanskrit word 'Maruwat'. English translation of the word is 'The region of death'. Imperial Gazetteer of India, v. 17, p. 213 defines Marwar as curruption of Maru-wâr, classically Marusthala or Marusthan, also called Marudesa, whence is derived the unintelligible Mardes of the early Muhamadan writers. The word means the 'region of death' and hence is applied to desert.

Region includes the present-day districts of Barmer, Jalor, Jodhpur, Nagaur, and Pali. It is bounded on the north by Jangladesh region, on the northeast by Dhundhar, on the east by Ajmer, on the southeast by Mewar, on the south by Godwar, on the southwest by Sind, and on the west by Jaisalmer region.

Geography: In 1901 the region (Jodhpur state) had an area of 90,554 km² (34,963 square miles).

Marwar is a sandy plain lying northwest of the Aravalli Range, which runs southwest-northeast through Rajasthan state. The Aravallis wring much of the moisture from the southwest monsoon, which provides most of India's rainfall. Annual rainfall is low, ranging from 10-40cms. Temperatures range from 48 to 50 degrees celsius in the summer, to below freezing point in winter. The Northwestern thorn scrub forests lie next to the Aravalli Range, while the rest of the region lies in the Thar Desert.

The Luni River is the principal feature of the Marwar plains. It originates in the sacred Pushkar Lake of Ajmer District, and the main river flows through Marwar in a south-westerly direction until it finally disappears into the seasonal wetland of the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat. It is fed by numerous tributaries that flow from the Aravallis. Irrigation from the river, and from wells near the river, support crops of wheat and barley.

The sandy tracts of Thar Desert in western Marwar are characterized by a harsh physical geography and a fragile ecology. High wind velocity, shifting sand dunes and very deep and saline water sources pose a challenge to sustained human habitation in the Thar. The area is also prone to devastating droughts. The Thar Desert is one of the most inhospitable landscapes on earth. Apart from the huge distances between hamlets and settlements here, the landscape is constantly shifting with the sand, as wind and sandstorms re-arrange the landscape at will. This added to the lack of water in such an arid region, means that the villagers of the area often find themselves migrating on foot across hundreds of miles towards neighboring states in search of water.
For  Photos please click here: Page Nineteen
Posted on September 14, 2009-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Goaar boli songs are disappearing: Gibb Schreffler (Ph.D. scholar from Connecticut, U.S.A.)

Dear Mr. Om Kamal ji,

I was very happy to find your website and also your YouTube channel. I am a student of the famous dhol master Ustad Garib Dass of Chandigarh. I have many Goaar friends in Punjab. I do research on music of Punjab and, as you know, Goaar people have played a great role in that tradition. Anyway, I did not expect to find a website from the Goaar community, because most of my friends are not using computers, so it was a nice surprise.

You have done a great job putting up all this information and keeping a newsletter. I know that much of your goal is political, but if I may make one humble suggestion: I hope you also can spare some time for the cultural life of Goaars.

Many of the arts, like music and dance, were only maintained by Goaar artists. Now they are disappearing. Or, Punjab govt. and TV media is pretending to preserve them but in inaccurate form because they do not consult the knowledgeable artists (Goaars). Some examples are the jhummar and sammi dances, as well as the giddha dance of Goaarnis. Goaar boli songs are disappearing, too, as well as crafts.

My suggestion is that you also please ask your readers to document these arts of their families. It does not matter if one feels unable to analyze them at this time; the thing is just to record them. While videos are being made of political rallies and meetings, please also make sure the camera captures some of the Goaar culture for posterity.  That will be of great service to the future generations.

In the past just as now, Goaars did not share intimate details of culture with non-Goaars. Even though I have many friends, there were still things I could not see. For example, the true sammi dance of Goaarnis is too private for non-family. At the same time, many Goaars have not had the technology (cameras, computers) to record these things.  But now, in these recent years, they do; this is the chance.

Your YouTube channel is excellent because we hear --maybe for the first time?-- Goaar Boli spoken on the Internet. Please continue your video blogs; the audio quality of those should also improve if possible. It is nice because it helps me to learn the language, some of which my ustad has taught me.  I have also enjoyed your samples of Lakhbir Lakha songs.

Please forgive me if I have made any mistakes. Thank you for reading my letter and thank you for sharing this information.

Yours,
Mr. Gibb Schreffler (Ph.D. scholar)
Connecticut, U.S.A.  For the photo of writer, please click on this link: Current Mail 
Posted on September 14, 2009------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I would like to serve as our "community representative" for Tamilnadu: Ram Prashad

 Dear Kamal ji !
 
Ram! Ram!
 
 I am Ramprashad from Tamilnadu. I am very happy to note your effort for tying up Goaars living all over india. In Tamilnadu, our people are living in around 10 districts. In this state our community is called as  "LAMBADI". Lambadi caste is categorized as "Backward Class" in Tamilnadu. People of our community are economically and socially in very poor condition.
 
Nobody is taking steps to get ST status for our community in Tamilnadu. I am ready to fight for this cause but don't have proper guidance and support. I would be very happy if I got any valuable suggestion from our community people.
 
To say about me, I am a Teacher working in a govt. school taking maths for Higher secondary students.
 
I would like to serve as our "community representative" for Tamilnadu.
 
With thanks,
 
K.Ramprashad Naik,  M.Sc.,M.phil., B.Ed.,
Dharmapuri, Tamilnadu.
E-mail :-   k.ramprashad@gmail.com
Mobile:-   91 9095168551
Posted on September 14, 2009-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Vimukti Divas celebrated in Mumbai on Aug. 31

For detailed news and Photos, please click on this link: Page Nineteen

Posted on September 14, 2009-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAKHWINDER WADALI

First Punjabi Movie releasing on September 11

Phagwara, August 31, 2009 (Ritesh Kamal): Star Goaar Punjabi Singer Lakhwinder Wadali is now entering in movie world as an Hero. His first Punjabi Movie “Akhiyan Udeekdiyan” is releasing in theatres on September 11, 2009.

Punjabi Movie “Akhiyan Udeekdiyan” is a presentation of Sartaj Productions and heroine of the movie is “Miss World Punjaban” title winner Miss Raushni.

Other artists of this movie are: Gurkeertan, Sudesh Lehri, Rana Ranveer, Jagtar Jaggi and Sanjeev Atri. Music Director of this Punjabi Movie “Akhiyan Udeekdiyan” is Gurmeet.

Mukesh Gautam is director of this movie. According to Lakhwinder Wadali this Punjabi Movie “Akhiyan Udeekdiyan” is a good family movie with a big budget.

It is known that Lakhwinder Wadali is a son of Prominent Punjabi Veteran Singer Shri Puran Chand Wadali and Shri Piare Lal Wadali is his Uncle. Shri Puran Chand Wadali and Shri Piare Lal Wadali duo known as “Wadali Brothers” in Music World. This family belongs to Vartia Gotra of Goaars and residing in Guru Ki Wadali town of Punjab.
For more detailed news with photos, please visit this page: Page Eighteen
Posted on August 31, 2009--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

Foreigners interactions into the Banjara shops in Hampi (Karnataka): A report by Shantha Naik

Dear sir,

I am Shantha Naik Rathod studying Computer Engineering (7th semester) in Banglore, my native place is Kaddirampur Thanda (3 kilometers from Hampi). My parents are doing business (selling Mambani mirror setting clothes) in Hampi (Karnataka). Around Hampi there are lot of Lambani (Banjara) places (more than 20 thandas) have been located like Kaddirampura Thanda (my place), Sitarama Thanda, Kamalapura Thanda etc.
 
Enthusiastically I have informed to you that in Hampi there are lot of Lambani shops. Gormati people are selling our traditional clothes in Hampi. The Hampi is one of the great historical place in the world. Hampi is accrediated by UNESCO (USA). So that lot of foreigners (Europeans) had gathered and day-by-day gathering more in Hampi. The France and Spain people (Europeans) buying our traditional clothes here. Kamal Sir, I am a Engineering student but recently (in july) during holidays, I visited my brother's shop in Hampi and captured some images in which foreigners are buying our Lambani clothes and some of the our traditional ornaments in huge amount. Shopkeeper is my brother and my father's job is getting Lambani business materials from Bijapur, Goa, Delhi etc. into my brother's shop in Hampi.
 
Sir my final key point to you is, more abroad people have gathered in Hampi and buying our traditional clothes from my brother's shop and other Lambani shops too in Hampi.
 
An Australian person had married to my village's (Kaddirampur) Lambani lady. He have Lambani business in Australia.
 
I have attached some photos from my brother's shop in Hampi.
THANKING YOU SIR.
 
Regards,
Shantha Naik Rathod
(Computer Engineering Student)
Phone Number:09008814804
E-mail: shanth.naik@gmail.com
For detailed report with photos, please visit this news page: Page Eighteen 
Posted on August 31, 2009---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Baba Hathiramji Mutt under Endowments scanner

Department official visits Mutt; inspects strong room and bank lockers

The official did not make physical verification of contents of lockers


TIRUPATI, August 29, 2009 (Special Correspondent): The controversy over the ‘mysterious’ disappearance of a bag supposed to contain ornaments worth Rs. 20 crore belonging to the Sri Hathiramji Mutt here took an interesting turn on Friday. The Hathiramji Mutt is the erstwhile custodian of the Tirumala temple prior to the passing of the A.P. Endowments Act in 1933.

Regional Joint Commissioner (RJC), Endowments, N. Vijayakumar began a detailed inquiry into the alleged disappearance. His inspection followed instructions from Endowments Commissioner Sundar Kumar for a thorough verification of all the issues raised in the media during the last two days. The Joint Commissioner visited the Mutt and found that the seal on the lock of the Mutt’s strong room was intact.

Visits bank branches: He later went to the SBI’s branches in Tirupati and Chandragiri where some jewellery and ornaments belonging to the Mutt were being kept in safe deposit lockers for several decades in line with court orders. Mr. Vijaykumar said he did not make a physical verification of the contents of the lockers as he had no authority.

He, however, took a look at the boxes in the lockers and reportedly found them intact. The boxes are lying in the lockers of SBI’s Chandragiri branch since 1966, while those in the Tirupati branch are there since 1971. He said unless the District Court issued permission, the boxes cannot be opened and their contents verified .

The Joint Commissioner dispatched a report on his findings which are expected to be tabled in the legislature which witnessed a heated debate on the alleged scams rocking the TTD. (With thanks from "The Hindu")
Posted on August 29, 2009----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Honor of Goaar Students in Delhi

Dear KAMAL,
NAMASTE!

Kaafi dinon baad aapko mail kar raha hoo, iske liye aapse mafi chahta hoon. Aap kaise hain? I hope ki aap sab bohot acche honge. Pichhle dinon (August 20, 2009 Ko) Delhi mein ek programme kiya gaya tha, jo ki ALL INDIA BANJARA SEVA SANGH (DELHI) YOUTH Wing ki taraf se tha. Ye programme 10th, 12th ke pass students ko appreciate karne ke liye tha jiski mein aapko report bhej raha hoon. Shri Prakash Rathore, Shri Mukesh Sabana (National Youth Wing President, AIBSS), Shri Daya Ram, Shri Sunil Rathore, Shri Rajinder Rathore were among the main organizers of this Function.

Kamal Rathore, New Delhi
For detailed news and photos, please click here: Page Seventeen
Posted on August 24, 2009---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Banjaras of Rajasthan met with Ashok Gehlot C.M.

Banjaras of Rajasthan met with Shri Ashok Gehlot, Chief Minister of Rajasthan to give thanks for the five percent reservation to Banjaras alongwith Gujjars and Gadia Lohars on August 11, 2009.
For detailed news and Photo, please click here: Page Sixteen

Posted on August 24, 2009---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mahesh Vanzara: Gold Medal winner in M.A. English

Hi, Sir
Sorry for late reply. Actually I am dealing with Government Polytechnic as a lecturer. I had sended my bio-data and all details of me. My father is a businessman (tea-snack) hotel in small village. Approximately 16 tandas in my district. I am a BANOT Banjara. I won Gold Medal in English.
Thanks and waiting for reply.

MaheshKumar Jemsinh Vanzara

For detailed news and photos, please click here: Page Sixteen 
Posted on August 24, 2009---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Independence Day of India

Honor of Goaar Students at Sitharama Thanda

Jai Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj!
This is L. Krishna Naik, Head Master, Govt. Higher Primary School, Sitharama Thanda. I am sending you my school function Prize photos about function on 15.08.2009 through Shri Laxman L.D. Engineer. 
I am sending you some pictures of Prizes to best students in Government Higher Primary School, Sitharama Thanda, HOSPET (TQ), BELLARY (DIST), KARNATAKA (STATE)  for TOPPER in Examination, art, sports, good handwriting, good reading, full attendence, clean dress etc on the eve of 62nd Independence Day of India and 63rd flag hoisting day on 15.08.2009. it is to motivate the students, teacher, parents, thanda leaders and gram panchayat president; members towards the upliftment of educationally backward students in  thandas. Full News: Page Sixteen
Posted on August 17, 2009--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

113th Jayanti of Padam Shri Ram Singh Ji Bhanawat at Phool Umri on August 15, 2009

Phool Umri, Washim, August 10, 2009 (Shankar Ade): Padam Shri Ramsingh  Bhanawat Memorial Trust Thane is organizing 113th Jayanti of Late Padam Shri Ram Singh Ji Bhanawat at his native Tanda Phool Umri on August 15, 2009 from 3 PM to 6 PM.

It is noted that Late Padam Shri Ram Singh Ji Bhanawat devoted himself throughout his life for the upliftment of the downtrodden Goaar Community. Padam Shri Ram Singh Bhanawat was selfless social worker. He was born in hut on August 15, 1906 and lived in hut till his death.

Mrs. Nisha Taai Naik (Chairperson of Zila Parishad Washim), Shri Udai Rathod (Collector Washim), Shri Jai Kishan Rathod (Sabhapati Zila Parishad Washim) and Shri B.K. Naik (Ex Collector) will be the Guest of Honor at this occasion .

Organizer of the function is Smt. Latadevi Naik (daughter of Late Padam Shri Ram Singh).
Posted on August 10, 2009---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Honor of talented Banjara children will be on August 16 by Akhil Bhartiya Banjara Vichaar Manch

Nagpur, August 10, 2009 (Shankar Ade): Newly formed Akhil Bhartiya Banjara Vichaar Manch is organizing Vasantrao Naik Memorial Day as Honor Function for talented Banjara children who secured their names in the merit list of school examinations on August 16, 2009 at Pragati Bhawan, Chhatrapati Chowk, Wardha Road, Nagpur from 10 AM to 6 PM.

Chief Guest of the function will be Shri Atmaram Ji Chavan and Mrs. Maya Tai Mayor of Nagpur.

Organizers of the function are Prof. Vasant Pawar, President, Akhil Bhartiya Banjara Vichaar Manch  (Ph. 94208-56991), Builder Shri H.B. Chavan (Ph. 93714-93640), Engineer  R.D. Jadhav, Shri Dayaram Rathod, Smt. Malu Taai, Chavan, Advocate Badri Prasad Chavan and Prof. M.D. Chavan.
Posted on August 10, 2009---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pathetic condition for a population of 6 crore!

I am really proud of our Goaars Varsha Chowhan who secured 17th rank in state board exam and Ravi Naik who secured 5th rank in State Civil Services. They proved that the Goaars are not behind the farward castes. This achievement of Varsha and Ravi, proved that they have same type of talent as the farward castes have.

We can beat anybody and that is in our genes. Prime concern of our community is economic backwardness, which is supressing us from becoming leaders in any field. How can this problem be solved, all Goaars give a thought to it.

Slowly our culture is vanishing, because we are not outnumbering by population in any state. If we have had a separate state, our culture would have been theiving by this time. We would have ruled our own state.

Though our population is about 6 crore. We don't have identity in India. Nobody recognises our community. This is really a pathetic condition for a population of 6 crore.

To overcome all this, Goaars have to unite and a movement has to be built like 'Indian National Movement', then only we will get our due.

Panthya Pawar
Posted on August 9, 2009-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Four Banjaras lynched in Bihar

Patna, August 7, 2009: Four members of a nomadic tribe were lynched Thursday evening in Bihar's Kaimur district on the suspicion that they were involved in a theft in the area, police said Friday. Three of the alleged assailants have been arrested.

The four men were beaten to death at Kudra village in Kaimur district, about 200 km from the state capital, for their alleged involvement in a theft at a liquor shop in the area.

The victims -- identified as Shankar, 30, Lakhan, 26, Majanu, 25 and Soojan, 27 -- were banjaras, a sub-group of the Nat nomadic tribe. Originally hailing from Bharatpur in Rajasthan, they were living along with their families in Kaimur for over a decade and trying to earn a livelihood.

Police have lodged a case and arrested three of the accused, Additional Director General of Police (headquarters) Neelmani said Friday.

Family members of the four victims told police they had gone to the village pond but some people attacked them and others beat them with bamboo sticks and iron rods, killing them.

Some two years ago, a mob lynched 10 men of the Kueri sub-group of the Nat tribe at Rajapakar village in the state's Vaishali district. The incident had hit national headlines.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had ordered a Criminal Investigation Department (CID) probe into the incident, which found that the victims were not thieves and the lynching was not a sequel to any crime or theft case.

According to the report, the men were returning from a feast and got involved in a heated exchange with an auto-rickshaw driver over the fare near Dhelpurwa. The spat attracted a mob, which beat up the men mercilessly.

In rural areas of Bihar, street 'justice' is becoming increasingly common. Over 50 cases of lynching have been reported from the state over the last two-and-half months this year. (With thanks from samaylive.com)
Posted on August 9, 2009----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Goaar Matrimony

Female/27/Lambani/Karnataka

Hello,
We are searching Groom for my Sister Nuthana Naik.

Name      :  Nutahana Naik
Height    :  5 ft 2 inch / 142 cms
Colour    :  Fair
Sex       :  Female
Age       :  27
Category of Goaars :  Banjara
Caste      :    Lambadi
Sub Caste    :  Lambani
Star         :  Rohini
Kuja Dosham  :  No
Education Category      : Legal - BL/ ML/ LLB/ LLM ...
Qualification           : B.A , L.L.B
Employed in             : Private Sector
Occupation              : Lawyer & Legal Professional
Occupation in detail    : Civil and Criminal
Annual Income           : Rs. 100000
City and State          : Shimoga, Karnataka
Spoken Languages: English, Hindi, Kannada, Banjar/Lamani

What kind of bride/groom you are looking for?:  His qualifications are,
medical field, Technical Field, engineering, doctors, they should be
government or non- gov. Who is good looking and well cultured.

Please Contact to this number: 09480173165
Email:  mvaravinda@gmail.com
Postal Address: Shimoga, Karnataka

Information about your family: very decent and cultural.
Posted on August 9, 2009-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Male/29/Bhukya/Karnataka

NAME: DR. SREENIVASA. B
HEIGHT :188CM                                                                  COLOUR  :FAIR                                                                  SEX:MALE                                                     CASTE: LAMBANI(BHUKYA)/TAURUS                                   AGE: 29YRS                                                                  QUALIFICATION: M.B.B.S,M.D. (PEDIATRICS)
CITY, STATE: CHITRADURGA, KARNATAKA                                              
JOB:ASSISTANT PROFESSOR IN SSMC TUMKUR
SEARCHING  FOR  GOOD LOOKING DOCTOR  M.B.B.S/ M.D/ M.S/ DIPLOMA                                                                                                                                      CONTACT PHONE :09448856415                  Email :sreenivasab@ymail.com                                                   ADDRESS : NO. 22, TULASI,  OPP. OLD MIDDLE SCHOOL, KHAZI MOHALLA, CHITRADURGA. PIN-577501
Posted on August 9, 2009-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I am very proud to be part of this colourful and enthusiastic community: Pradeep Ramavath

Dear Sir,
 
I am Pradeep Ramavath, preseantly a research scholar at NUEPA. I am  persuing my integrated M.Phil-Phd from National University of Educational Planning and Administartion(NUEPA- Ministry of HRD), New Delhi.
 
I am very proud to be part of this colourful and enthusiastic community of Banjaras. Recently when I was surfing the net, regarding my research propoal whose focus is on Lambani thandas of Karnataka,  I am surprised to see this comprehensive documentation of articles, photos and related documents on our community. My sincere regards and congragulations for this challenging task. One needs to have dedicated mindset and holistic vision for these kind of community services in the present Globalising situations.
 
I am attaching my writeup(research proposal) and copy of my CV  for your reference, this study i am planning to take up in the State of Karnataka to see the participation and powers exercised by Banjara community in educational decentralisation process  at the community level.
 
The study entitled " Study of functioning of School Development and Monitoring Committees (SDMC's) in the selected Lambani thandas of Karnataka".
 
Also I am highly interested to participate and provide what ever little support possible from myside for your valubale service to our community.
 
Once again I  thank all for the people who are associted with "Banjaratimes" for their valuable contribution to our community.
 
Looking forward to hear more from you,
 
Thanking you,
Yours Truly
Pradeep Ramavath J
Research Scholar
National University of Educational Planning and Administration (NUEPA)
17-B, Aurobindo Marg
New Delhi-110016
Mobile- 09716068170, 09968423622
Posted on August 6, 2009-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Engineering student Jayaram Naik of Devapur Village in Adilabad District commits suicide

WARANGAL, August 5, 2009 (Staff Reporter): A final year Computer Science Engineering student of KITS College allegedly hanged himself to death here on Wednesday afternoon. According to the police, the student Jayaram Naik of Devapur village in Adilabad district, resorted to the extreme act as he was reportedly suffering from ill health. (With thanks from "The Hindu")
Posted on August 6, 2009-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Goaar Matrimony

Male/31/Lambani/Karnataka

Name:  Lokesha Naik
Height:  5 feet 7 inches
Colour: White.
Sex:  Male
Category:  Lambani
Gotra:  Jath
Age:  31 years
Qualification:  B.Sc
City:  Bhadravathi, Shimoga district
State:  Karnataka
Job:  Working as  a medical transcriptionist in Healthcare globle solutions, Bangalore
 
Well educated and friendly nature girl
 
Contact person:  Ombla Naik, Thimalapura (V), D. G. halli (p) Papert Town, Bhadravathi Shimoga (Dist)
Phone: 08282-292698
Email:  loku_gardencity@yahoo.com
 
We are searching for Bhukya Girl. 
Posted on August 6, 2009-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rajasthan Governor approves Reservation Bill; fulfills demand of Gujjars and Banjaras

Jaipur, July 30, 2009: In a sudden development, Rajasthan Governor Shailendra Kumar Singh has accorded approval to the Rajasthan Reservation Bill 2008 paving way for 5 per cent reservation to Gujjars, Banjaras and two other castes under most backward category and 14 percent reservation to EBCs.

The Governor accorded approval tonight, to the Bill which was pending before him since July last year.

Prior to this, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot met the Governor at the Raj Bhawan tonight. This was Mr Gehlot's second meeting within last 24 hrs. Last night too, the Chief Minister had a two-hour meeting with the Governor.

Yesterday, a 10 member Gujjar delegation led by Energy Minister Dr Jitendra Singh also met the Governor to persuade him to take a decision on the Bill pending before him for one year.

Earlier, Rajasthan Cabinet which met here this morning also favoured the governor's nod to the Bill.

The Cabinet held that it favoured 5 per cent reservation to Gujjars and three castes and 14 per cent reservation to EBCs.

"During previous Congress Government between 1998-2003, the Cabinet had already sent its resolution to the then Vajpayee government at the Centre in favour of 14 per cent reservation to poor people among higher unreserved castes", the Cabinet observed. Meanwhile, a Raj Bhawan release here tonight clarified that delay in the approval of the Bill was in wake of the need for consultations and opinions from legal and constitutional experts over a number of constitutional and legal aspects of the Bill.

The Governor's approval fulfilled the Gujjar Reservation Action Committee's demand which had been holding a sit-in (Mahapadav) at Painchla for five days.

Now after approval to the Bill, the ongoing Gujjar agitation is likely to be called off formally tomorrow. (With thanks from Webindia123.com)
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RANJIT  NAIK  AMAR HAI

Hyderabad, July 29, 2009 (Ram Chowhan): 3rd Death Anniversary of  Late SHRI RANJIT NAIK (Ex President of All India Banjara Seva Sangh, Founder of Shri Santh Sevalal Maharaj Trust, Goaar Social Reformer, who focused for Unity of Goaars across the country and stress on Education to Goaar Children) will be organized on July 30, 2009 at SEVAGARH, GOOTY, DISTRICT ANANTAPUR, ANDHRA PRADESH.
 
Prominent Goaar Leaders, Politicians, AIBSS Office bearers, Shri Santh Sevalal Maharaj Trust Board members will be paid tribute to Late SHRI RANJIT NAIK. He was actively worked whole life for the Unity of Goaars. He was also a founder member of All India Banjara Seva Sangh. He dedicated his life for upliftment of Goaars in India.
Posted on July 30, 2009-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Sanmaan Samaroh" by BMC Banjara Employees Welfare Association Mumbai on August 2, 2009 

Mumbai, July 30, 2009 (Shankar Ade): BMC Banjara Employees Welfare Association will organize a "Sanmaan Samaroh" at Kashinath Hall, Dadar West, Mumbai on August 2, 2009 (10AM). Prof. Motiraj Rathod and Shri Rajaram Jadhav, Deputy Secretary will be the chief guests of this function.

Shri Govind Rathod, Shrikant Pawar, Shri Ashok Pawar, Shri Rooprao Jadhav and Shri Pratap Chauhan will be honoured at this function.

Shri S.M. Rathod, Shri D.C. Rathod and Shri Dayaram Ade will be the main organizers of this funtion.
Posted on July 30, 2009------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

CONGRATULATIONS!

ASHWIN DEVIDAS JADHAV
S.S.C. SCORED 84% MUMBAI BOARD JUNE - 2009
KUMAR ASHWIN BORN AT SAKARA TANDA, TALUKA : DIGRAS, DIST : YAVATMAL ( MH.) SCHOOL NAME : SUDHAGADH EDUCATION SOCIETYKALAMBOLI NAVI MUMBAI
FATHER WORKING : NAVI MUMBAI MUNICIPAL CORPORATION TRANSPORT UNDERTAKING (N.M.M.T)
Best Wishes To Kumar Ashwin For Future Education
FROM MR. ROHIDAS R. JADHAV & MR. SURESH B. ADE NAVI MUMBAI
Posted on July 30, 2009--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

GOAAR CHETNA: We should focus for a developing progressive and promising plan

Dear Kamal Ji,

Having established website, we are slowly but steadily spreading our wings to reach all of our dear ones and it started showing the results also. Day by day more and more Banjara brothers are getting connected with this. This is a very good beginning and still I feel there is a long journey we have to travel.

Although our community had glorious and colourful, great history of performance in the past however our present conditions of our millions of brothers and sisters is still far from desired level. There is an urgent need for serious and sincere introspection on the pathetic and painful present and uncertain future of our community.

Many of our people still struggling for two time meal this is despite of the facts that we have reservations in some parts of India, and there are many Govt. schemes in many states for the upliftment of living standard of people. If we analyse things are different although it is more than 60 years for our independence still we are not in the part of progress in India, many of us are not at all main stream of India.

We still lack good education, sound health, resources are still far from our peoples reach, many are still under poverty, and adopting our old traditions of migration to one place to another in search of lively hood. Any big projects, any construction site, we can see our beloved poor Banjaras as labours without any shelter, food, and clothing.

Now  it is more than 60 years have been completed for India’s Independence  but  you and I know still the conditions of majority of our people have not improved and it was neglected  therefore,  immediate attention of Govt., is needed for the development of present condition of our people.

Social organisations and also people like us have to work to built popular opinion to bring to the attention of the Government.

By narrating above plight of our people, I am not trying to make any one responsible for the above lapses nor my intention is to make any one afraid, my only purpose is to, through this we can co-operate, educate and also can contribute to eradicate the problems of our people who genuinely deserves help from this nation and also from our society. Therefore in my opinion “We should focus for a developing progressive and promising plan” so that the purpose and idea of launching this website can be achieved.

I appeal through this site to all our educated Goaars, elite Goaars, enlightened Goaars, businessmen Goaars, politician Goaars and young and energetic Goaars to join this movement for development and unity of our community all over India. We are 6 crores of Banjaras; our voice will be powerful, let’s make the difference and bring the change which was neglected for so many centuries. 

Actually whole System needs a revolution. And we are the integral part of the same system. There are countless problems in the system…Let us take one at a time. I am presenting you a story of a boy named Babu (hypothetical name). Babu was never serious with his study and other family works. His father was a farmer and never looked into the matter. After Babu grown up he felt shocked when responsibilities knocked his door as he was not ready for it. So to cope up the pity situation of Babu, his father arranged Rs.100000/- to buy a police uniform for him.  After some arrangements and by the miracle of Rs.100000/- Babu successfully grabbed the constable uniform. An inflow of salary of Rs.4000/- started. But as every one know that this is not a sufficient amount to fulfil the requirements of 11 member family of Babu  so he started looking for some other sources of earning to full fill the financial problems of his family and he found taking BRIBERY an only hope… From that day till now he is taking BRIBE with no shame as if it is his BIRTH-RIGHT.
Who is culprit in this particular case? Whom to blame, father, son or Government?
1. Babu’s Father -- He didn’t bother about the study of Babu, about the friend circle of Babu.
2. Babu -- He was never serious about his own life. He chose an easy but unlawful solution to face the life.
3. Government-- Government didn’t take care of thousands of people like Babu which results in the making of thousand new Babus daily.
4. I, you (WE) -- We give him Bribe to get an easy pass through of our works (sometime illegal works).

We never try to help the people who really need our help. We close our eyes.

We only elect the same government every time and then we only cry for the works not done by our own government. But we will never go for the pains taking work of doing something for this.

“The above story is one of the millions of the same stories…” If we see the broad picture, we will find that the system needs immediate and complete resolution. And please we should not forget that “We” all are the essential part of this system.

At least we can start the holy work from ourselves. And believe me if we change…. Entire System Will Change.

Goaar Unity Zindabad!
Regards,
Bhiku Rathod
New Delhi, India.
Posted on July 20, 2009--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ramesh Rathod M.P. visited Pohradevi

Pohradevi, July 18, 2009 (Shankar Ade): Shri Ramesh Rathod M.P. from Adilabad, Andhra Pradesh visited “Goaaron Re Kashi” Pohradevi on July 17, 2009. He paid tribute to Goaar Devta Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj and got blessings from National Saint of Goaars Shri Ramrao Ji Maharaj. His relative Dr. Govind Chauhan also visited Pohradevi with him.

Priest Shri Babu Singh Rathod honored to Shri Ramesh Rathod M.P. with Shawl and Naarial. Shankar Ade Journalist presented him special Issue of “Washim Wartahar”.

For more details, please click here: Page Fifteen 
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Amar Rathod selected as Acting President of Maharashtra Banjara Employees Association

Akola (Maharashtra), June 7, 2009 (Rounak Rathod): A social thinker and writer of a book 'Arakshan Vimukth Bhatkyanche'(Reservation of Nomadic and Denotified Tribes) Shri Amar Rathod has been selected as an acting president of Maharashtra Banjara Employees Association. The central executive committee meeting was held at IMA (Indian Medical Association) Hall, Akola. To read full news, please click here:   Page Fourteen
Posted on July 15, 2009-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

NEW UPDATES (July 13, 2009):

* An architect of modern Maharashtra late shri Vasantrao Naik's 96th birth anniversary at Akola, Maharashtra, India. For full News please click here:   Page Fourteen

** A meeting of Banjaras of Bundi District by Rajasthan Pradesh Banjara Mahasabha. For full News please click here:  Page Thirteen

*** New mail sent by Bhiku Rathod, Ganesh Rathod and Pandu Naik. To read  please visit: Current Mail

**** Biodata of Goaar Engineer: Ganesh Rathod: Ganesh Rathod

Posted on July 13, 2009--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sant Shri Ramrao Ji Maharaj

Birthday Celebrations at Pohradevi

Banjara Devotees of Sant Shri Ramrao Ji Maharaj presented “Sonero Mukut” to Sant Shri Ramrao Ji Maharaj. A religious function was organized at Pohradevi. Devotees from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Maharashtra attended this program. Shri Manohar Naik, Food and Drug administration Minister, Maharashtra, Shri Haribhau Rathod Ex M.P. and Shri Balibhau Rathod also attended this program. (Photos and details by: Shankar Ade, Pohradevi)
For more photos please click on this link:   Page Thirteen
Posted on July 9, 2009----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CONGRATULATIONS!

Yavatmal resident and Banjara Youth Amitkumar Rathod clears UPSC

YAVATMAL, May 8, 2009 (T O Abraham): Amitkumar Rathod has proved that sheer will power and commitment can help conquer all odds. Born in a nondescript Banjara Tanda called Yermal Hetti in Arni tehsil, Yavatmal district, Amitkumar cleared UPSC examination bagging 200th position in all India ranking on Monday.

Son of Bharat and Chhaya Rathod, Amitkumar cleared the exam in his maiden attempt. He completed his schooling from Vivekanand School, Yavatmal and went on to pursue his BSc degree course from Mumbai-based Amolakchand College.

Attributing the success to his parents and sister Pallavi, Amitkumar said, "In my community, many talented students are deprived of the opportunity to pursue their goals only due to poor financial conditions and illiteracy. I will make a sincere effort to provide them guidance and help talented youth from nomadic Banjara tribe to pursue their goals." (With thanks from "The Times of India")
Posted on July 5, 2009---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Goaar Matrimony Service...

Male/27/Devsoth/Andhra Pradesh

(a) Name: Ganesh Rathod
Height: 5'8"
Colour: Wheatish
Sex: Male
(b) Category of Goaars:  Banjara/Lambada
(c) Gotra: Rathod
(d) Pada: Devsoth
(e) Age: 27
(f) Qualification: B.Tech, NIT, Jamshedpur
(g) City and State: Adilabad, Andhra Pradesh
(h) Job (if any): Senior Technical Engineer – Toyota Kirloskar Motors
(i) What kind of bride/groom you are looking for: Educated, simple, understanding with good culture and family background.
(j) Contact Person's Name and Relation: Bhiku Rathod, Elder Brother, Phone: 09999600533.
Email:ganesh_rathod@tkm.co.in & ganeshrathod_82@redifmail.com
Postal Address: Vill: Gangapur, Post : Thadihatnur, TQ : Utnur, Dist Adilabad, Andhra Pradesh
(k) Information about your family: My father is Farmer/Contractor/Politician  and my mother is house wife.
(l) Native Tanda: Gangapur village, Adilabad, Andhra  Pradesh 
Posted on July 13, 2009------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   

Female/27/Rathod/Maharashtra

(a) Name:              Rathod Kalpana W.
Height:                  5'4"
Colour:                  Fair
Sex:                      Female
(b) Category of Goaars : Banjara
(c) Gotra:              Khola
(d) Age:                27
(e) Qualification: B.A, B.Lib, M.Lib (Appeared)
(f) City and State: Yavatmal (Maharashtra)
(g) What kind of groom you are looking for: He should be from well settled family with good understanding.
    He should be (Lecturer / Engg / Well Educated) and from good family background.
 
(h) Contact Person's Name and Relation: Mr. Rathod Rajesh W. (Elder Brother)
 Phone:09763350099
     Mr. Pawar Vijay H. [Dy. Controller of Civil Defence, Mumbai] (Brother- in- Law)
        Phone:9892099535
Email: chinki2688@gmail.com
Postal Address:
Yavatmal
(i) Information about your family: Family occupation Agiculture and Education trusts
(j) Native Tanda: Tiwsa
Posted on July 9, 2009---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Female/30/Rathod/Maharashtra

Name: Dr. Leela Haridas Rathod
Height: 5’ 2”
Sex:  Female
Date of Birth- 9th June 1979.
Blood Group- A +ve.
(e) Age: 30
(f) Qualification: M.B.B.S., D.A. (ANAESTHESIA)
(g) City and State: Pune, Maharashtra
(h) Job (if any):  Asst. Lecturer in Anaesthesia. Medical College,
Talegaon Dabhade.
(i) What kind of bride/groom you are looking for?: Good in nature,
Caring, down to earth, honest, adjustive.
(j) Contact Person's Name and Relation: Haridas Rathod (Father)
Phone: 9972085619, 9960354698
Email: leelarathod@yahoo.com

Postal Address: Shri Datta Housing Society, Morewadi, Chincholi Road,
Pune- 412114.
(k) Information about your family:
Two elder sisters- both married.
Four brothers- two married, two unmarried.
Father- Farmer.
Mother- Housewife.
(l) Native Place: Gangapur (Kulali, Madyal), Karnataka.
Posted on July 5, 2009---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

New Book: "Change and Development in Lambani Society" written by C.R. Gopal

Change and Development in Lambani Society: C. R. Gopal; IBH Prakashana, 77, 2nd Main, Ramarao Layout, BSK III Stage, Bangalore-560085.
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Any Goaars living in Australia Contact me: Dr. Indeevar Mude,  Melbourne, Australia

Dear Kamal
 
Its pleasure writing to you, I am Dr. Indeevar Mude son of Shri Mude Nagamuni Naik IRAS originally hailing from Andhra Pradesh. Happened to come across your website which interested me so much that I was browsing through all Saturday night and I'm surprised to see so much information on your site. I greatly appreciate your intelligent and hard work.

I will be interested in catching up of any Goaars living in Australia whether it be students or any one who is in Australia or coming to Australia and I shall help out in what ever way best possible with me.
I will be looking forward for hearing from you.
 
Kind Regards,
Dr. Indeevar Mude
MBBS DA FRACGP
Melbourne, Australia.
E-mail: indeevarmn@gmail.com
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Shri Mata Durgadevi Annual Yatra Mahotsav 2009 at Somdevarhatti Tanda, Bijapur 

Banjara Saint Shri Ramrao Ji Maharaj addressing the gathering of Banjara devotees at the Temple premises of Shri Mata Durgadevi Jathra Mahotsava Devastan Trust, Somdevarhatti Tanda, Bijapur, Karnataka on June 22, 2009. Shri Hari Bhau Rathod, Ex M.P. Yavatmal also seen in the picture. This programme was organized by Shri Jaganu Maharaj, Chairman, Shri Mata Durgadevi Jathra Mahotsava Devastan Trust Committee, Somdevarhatti Tanda, Bijapur, Karnataka. (Photo and details by Shankar Ade) For More Photos, Please click on this link:  Page Twelve
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Thousands Goaars paid tribute to Mata Desan Devi Ji at Kurukshetra on June 18, 2009 

Kurukshetra, Haryana, June 19, 2009 (Ritesh Kamal): Mata Desan Devi Memorial Annual Festival was completed successfully at Mata Desan Devi Temple, Brahm Sarovar, Kurukshetra on June 18, 2009. Thousands Goaars from Punjab and Haryana paid tribute to Daadi Desan Devi Ji. Different food stalls were installed to serve food to the devotees of Mata Desan Devi Ji.
FOR MORE PHOTOS OF MATA DESAN DEVI MELA, PLEASE CLICK ON THESE LINKS:  Mata Desan Devi-1     Mata Desan Devi-2  
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New Book "Goaar Raajpootan/Baazigaran Da Itihaas" released in Chandigarh on June 7, 2009

Chandigarh, June 15, 2009: Prominent Goaar Worker and Advocate Shri Inder Singh Valjot written a book named “Goaar Raajputan Bazigaran Da Itihaas” which released in a function organized by Kavita Kender, Chandigarh at Punjab Kala Bhawan, Sector 16 B, Chandigarh on June 7, 2009.

“Goaar Raajputan Bazigaran Da Itihaas” book is edited by established Punjabi Writer Shri Karam Singh Vakeel and published by Lokgeet Prakashan, Sirhind.

Advocate Shri Inder Singh Valjot is strong supporter of Rajput Origin Theory of Bazigars. He is also elected president of Rajput Goaar Council of India. He can reach by email: valjot_singhinder@hotmail.com and Cell Phone No. 98157-48541.
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Shankar Ade...

Fighting for the Rights of Denotified Tribes...

Shri Shankar Ade handing over a bank account copy to homeless Banjara Lady in Mumbai.

Journalist Shankar Ade and others performed DHARNA for the Rights of Denotified Tribes.

Morcha in Pusad: Prof. Motiraj Rathod and Shri Shankar Ade leading a Morcha in Pusad town for the Rights of Denotified Tribes.

Morcha in Pusad: Journalist Shri Shankar Ade leading a Morcha in Pusad town for the Rights of Denotified Tribes.
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Goaars paid tribute to Padam Shri Ram Singh Ji Bhanawat at his native Tanda Phool Umri on June 10

Prominent Goaar Writer Prof. Motiraj Rathod from Aurangabad paid tribute to Social Thinker Late Padam Shri Ram Singh Ji Bhanawat. (Photo: Shankar Ade)

Special issue of “Washim Wartahar” was released by the main guests.

Phool Umri, June 15, 2009 (Shankar Ade): 7th Death Anniversary of Goaar Social Reformer Late Padam Shri Ram Singh Bhanawat was organized at his native Tanda Phool Umri, near Pohradevi, Diatrict Washim, Maharashtra on June 10, 2009.

Prominent Goaar Writer Prof. Motiraj Rathod from Aurangabad, Shri B.K. Naik, Ex Collector, Beed District paid tribute to Social Thinker Padam Shri Ram Singh Bhanawat. They said real tribute to Padam Shri Ram Singh Bhanawat is Unity of Goaars and stress on Education to Goaar Children.

At this occasion special issue of “Washim Wartahar” was released by the main guests. This special issue of “Washim Wartahar” was published by Shankar Ade of Pohradevi.
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Makrana Meeting of Banjaras stressed on the education of children and Unity among Goaars

Banjara leaders are sitting at the stage of Makrana meeting of All India Banjara Seva Sangh, Rajasthan Unit.

Dr. M. Shankar Naik, President, All India Banjara Seva Sangh was the Chief Guest of the meeting of Banjaras at Makrana, Rajasthan.

Dear Sir, I am sending you the photos of Makrana meeting of All India Banjara Seva Sangh, Rajasthan Unit. This meeting was organized at Tulsi Bhawan, Makrana, Rajasthan on June 11, 2009.
Dr. M. Shankar Naik, President, All India Banjara Seva Sangh was the Chief Guest of the meeting.
Mr. Ishwar Lal Binjhrawat State President of AIBSS and Shri Mohan Lal Banjara Ajmer, General Secretary State Unit of AIBSS was main organizer of the meeting.
In this meeting of Banjaras, these points were discussed:

Unity among the Banjaras is main issue for the development.
Banjara children must have Education.
Banjara youth is the back bone of the Community.
New Rajasthan AIBSS committee also declared in this meeting.
Shri Ishwar Lal Binjhrawat is president.
Shri Kalyan Singh Banjara is the Vice President, DYSP.
Local M.L.A also attended the meeting.

Yours,
M. Kuppusamy Naik, Makrana, Rajasthan
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Attack on D. Ravindra Naik Ex M.P. condemned

KARIMNAGAR, June 16, 2009 (Staff Reporter): SC\ST district leaders set fire to an effigy of TRS president K. Chandrasekhar Rao in Karimnagar on Monday in protest against the attack on party senior leader Ravindra Naik by TRS activists at Telangana Bhavan in Hyderabad. SC\ST association leaders led by Roop Singh and Ramchander Naik set fire to the effigy at Sripada Rao statue in the town and raised slogans KCR and demanded an unconditional apology for humiliating and attacking a tribal leader. They alleged that the TRS president is using Telangana sentiment for his selfish gains of attaining power and benefiting his family members by making money.

‘Hidden agenda’: Reminding Mr. Rao’s statement of appointing a Dalit as Chief Minister in separate Telangana state and providing reservations to tribals, they asked whether insulting the Dalits and tribals was his hidden agenda. They demanded the government to register case against Mr. Rao under the SC\ST Atrocities Act. (With thanks from "The Hindu") Note: for more detailed news, Please click on this link: D. Ravindra Naik 

If you wanna watch the video of Shri D. Ravindra Naik, Please click on this Youtube Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKQYZb5twkA
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You have given me an opportunity to express my understanding on web world: Dr. Tanaji Rathod 

Dear Om Kamal,
 
It was great excitement in talking to you over phone yesterday. Really I don’t have any words to express for your deep involvement in the enrichment of knowledge in the Banjara Community. That is too sitting from the outside India. It is great. Actually we people have to think of ourselves who are living in India, hats off to you.  Do you know that this is the only community which is rich in culture, heritage, ethnic, colorful and unadulterated since abinitio. This Banjara language is spoken in same tone, dialect all over the South India like Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan etc. I have interacted with my many friends in the different parts of the country but only regrettable thing is that no government has given importance for the progress of this community except at the time general elections as a vote banks. Anyhow we as a literate people have to come together and join hands for the development of this economically weaker society and integrate the same. One great leader was there some time ago viz., Late Shri Ranjit Naik. He did great works for the society. Due to his age factor, he disappeared from the scene. Anyhow, somebody form community like bureaucrats, politicians, businessmen and social thinkers have to come forward and do the needful.
 
Thanks Kamal, you have given me an opportunity to express my little understanding on this web world.
 
I have lots of friends and good network of scholars, government officers, friends and relatives. I will introduce you from time to time and send you information regularly.
 
With best regards, 
Dr. Tanaji Rathod  

Editors Note: Banjara Times is thankfull to Dr. Tanaji Rathod for his consent to write articles for Banjara Times. We are expecting more writers come forward to write regularly for Banjara Times. Please click on this link to read article of Dr. Tanaji Rathod from Bangalore: Strategy for Development
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YSR distributes land title deeds to STs

HYDERABAD, June 9, 2009: Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy on Monday distributed certificates of titles to tribal representatives hailing from all districts, as part of the implementation of the Recognition of Forest Rights Act, 2006.

In all, 1.28 lakh claims covering 4.44 lakh acres are to be given certificates by June 15. Tribal Welfare Minister P. Balaraju and tribal legislators were present. Coffee, rubber plantations and horticulture schemes are to be taken in the lands.

An official release said still some claims were pending at the sub-divisional and district levels.

The Collectors have been instructed to complete the scrutiny of the claims and complete issuing of certificates to the eligible claimants by the month-end. (With thanks from "the Hindu")

Distribution of certificates of land titles to STs is a drama: D. Ravindra Naik, former M.P. 

HYDERABAD, June 9, 2009: D. Ravindra Naik, former MP, described distribution of certificates of land titles to the Scheduled Tribes by Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy here on Monday as a ‘drama’. In a statement, while claiming that not a single acre was distributed to STs so far, he sought to blame the government for the sale or killing of tribal infants, migration of STs and their suicides. Mr. Naik wanted the State to declare girijan thandas as gram panchayats. (With thanks from "The Hindu")

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Kaptan Singh Dharamsot

Goaars of the World Proud of You!

Editors Note: We recieved a e-mail from a Goaar of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Kaptan Singh Dharamsot (Banoth). It is proud for Banjara Times to introduce such a Goaar, whose children are highly educated. We wish all Goaars should act like him, for their children's education.

Hello Mr. Om Kamal ji,

Myself Kaptan Singh Dharamsot (Banoth) Asst. Gen. Manager in FCI, from Gwalior (MP) got to know about you by your site. I am  very glad to know that you are running 'BanjaraTimes' which connects Gor bhais globally. I want to let you know about my family.
  
My wife Smt. Usha Singh (house wife), My son Dr. Yogendra Singh(MBBS), daughter-in-law Dr. Neelima (MBBS), My elder daughter Dr. Renu (MBBS), 2nd daughter Dr. Mohini (MBBS) & my younger daughter Dr. Sapna (BDS student 1st year).

I am searching  a groom for my elder daughter Dr. Renu, at present working in BIRLA  MEDICAL INSTITUTE, GWALIOR, Date of BIRTH-14 JAN 1981, FAIR color, ht.5'5". If you are known to some compatible person (MBBS/P.G.), then please inform me at my site. I would prefer family from North India.

MY Local Address: H-3, GYANI ENCLAVE, DWARIKA PURI EXTENTION, GWALIOR (M.P.). Cell PH-09826356703, RES. PH-07514050604.
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7th Death Anniversary of Shri Ram Singh Ji Bhanawat on June 10 at Village Phool Umri

Phool Umri, Washim, June 8, 2009 (Shankar Ade): 7th Death Anniversary of Padam-Shri Ram Singh Ji Bhanawat will be organized at his native Village Phool Umri, District Washim, Maharashtra on June 10, 2009 (Wednesday). Shri B.K. Naik, Ex Collector and Prof. Motiraj Rathod will be the main speakers at this occasion. Padam Shri Ram Singh Ji Bhanawat was a great reformer of Banjara Society. He was actively worked whole life for the Unity of Goaars. He was also a founder member of All India Banjara Seva Sangh. 
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Congratulations to Ravi Kamal (Dharamsot)

Phagwara, June 5, 2009: Ravi Kamal (Dharamsot) son of Mr. Ashok Kamal resident of Mohalla Dharamkot, Phagwara, Punjab secured 75 percent (639/850) marks in 2009 Matric Examination held by Punjab School Education Board, Mohali. Ravi Kamal is student of Shri Mahavir Jain Model Senior Secondary School, Phagwara and he secured his name in Merit List. Shri Ashok Kamal (98557-27429) is president of Dharamsot Welfare Society, Phagwara.
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Congratulations to Varsha Chowhan!

Hyderabad, June 1, 2009: First time in Andhra Pradesh a Banjara Girl Varsha Chowhan, who secured 17th  Rank in X Class Exam 2009 (State Syllabus). Out of 600 marks she secured 573 marks. Once again I congratulate and wish you a bright future in your higher educations.
 
From Your Uncle  - Ram Chowhan from Hyderabad.    E-mail: mr.chowhan@yahoo.co.in
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5 Goaars won in Assembly Elections

We are presenting here the details of Goaars in Assembly Elections of Andhra Pradesh. We are presenting here those Assembly Constituencies, where one or more Goaar Candidates participated in Elections. According to our sources 55 Goaar Candidates participated in 9 different Assembly Constituencies and only 5 of them elected as the Members of Andhra Pradesh Assembly.

Devarakonda (ST) (All 7 Goaar Candidates)
Goaar Winner: BALU NAIK NENAVATH  Indian National Congress
MANGYA PATHLAVATH  Bharatiya Janata Party
RAMAVATH LALU NAIK  Bahujan Samaj Party
RAVINDRA KUMAR RAMAVATH  Communist Party of India
VADTYA RAMESH  Praja Rajyam Party   
JARUPALA LOKYA NAIK  Independent 
RAMAVATH BHOJYA NAIK  Independent

Dornakal (ST) (All 9 Goaar Candidates)
Goaar Winner: SATYAVATHI RATHOD  Telugu Desam
REDYA NAIK DHARAMSOTH  Indian National Congress
PARUSHURAM NAIK PORIKA  Bharatiya Janata Party
KEVULOTH RAJENDER  Pyramid Party of India
BANOTH SUJATHA  Praja Rajyam Party
ALA MALOTH  Independent
JARPULA AMMAJI  Independent  
BHUKYA KISTU NAIK  Independent
SOMANNA TEJAVATH  Independent 

Khanapur (ST) (6 Goaar Candidates)
Goaar Winner: SUMAN RATHOD  Telugu Desam
AJMEERA HARI NAIK  Indian National Congress
GUGLAVATH SRIRAM NAIK  Bharatiya Janata Party
K. LAKKE RAO  Bahujan Samaj Party
BHUKYA CHANDRA SHEKAR  Praja Rajyam Party
ADE DATTARAM  Independent
BAKSHI NAIK LAVADIA  Independent
MARSKOLA THIRUPATHI  Independent
MALWANTH ROHIDAS  Independent
SIDAM SHAMBU  Independent

Mahabubabad (ST) (9 Goaar Candidates)
Goaar Winner: KAVITHA MALOTH  Indian National Congress
AZMEERA CHANDULAL  Telangana Rashtra Samithi
YAPA SEETHAIAH  Bharatiya Janata Party
EERYA BANOTU  Lok Satta Party
SHANKAR NAIK  Praja Rajyam Party
GUGULOTH SHANKAR  Independent
JATOTH HARICHAND  Independent
BANOTH KISHAN NAIK  Independent
BANOTH MANGYA  Independent
HALAVATH LINGYA  Independent

Wyra (ST) (9 Goaar Candidates)
Goaar Winner: CHANDRAVATHI BANOTH  Communist Party of India
EESALA VENKATESWARLU  Bharatiya Janata Party
DR. BHUKYA RAMACHANDRA NAYAK  Indian National Congress
MALOTH PRASADA RAO  Bahujan Samaj Party
UNDADI NARENDER  Lok Satta Party
KATTA VENKATESWARLU  Trilinga Praja Pragati Party
KATRAM SWAMY  Pyramid Party of India
BANOTH VANI KUMARI  Praja Rajyam Party
GIRIBABU LAKAVATH  Independent
GUGULOTH RAMBABU  Independent
BANOTH KISHAN  Independent
BANOTH MADANLAL  Independent

Yellandu (ST) (6 Goaar Candidates: No Goaar Winner)
Winner: ABBAIAH VOOKE  Telugu Desam
KANAKAIAH KORAM  Indian National Congress
KRISHAN MALOTHU  Bahujan Samaj Party
KRISHNA MOHAN SINGH PORIKA  Bharatiya Janata Party
SHANKAR BANOTH  Praja Rajyam Party
SEETHARAM BODA  Pyramid Party of India
CHANDAR RAO MALOTHU  Independent
NARSAIAH GUMMADI  Independent
NARASIMHA RAO EESAM  Independent
BALU BADAVATH  Independent
YERRAIAH PADIGA  Independent
RAVI CHEPURI  Independent
SRINIVAS PUNEM  Independent
HARI SING BANOTHU  Independent

Pinapaka (ST) (5 Goaar Candidates: No Goaar Winner)
Winner: REGA KANTHA RAO  Indian National Congress
BANDARU NAGESWARA RAO  Bahujan Samaj Party
PAYAM VENKATESWARLU  Communist Party of India
SEETHARAMULU BHUKYA  Bharatiya Janata Party
JANAKIRAM TEJAVATH  Praja Rajyam Party
BANAVATH SRINIVASA RAO  Lok Satta Party
CHANDA BHARATHI  Independent
CHINTHA SAMMAIAH  Independent
DHARAVATH CHANDU  Independent
DARAVATH HANMANTH NAIK  Independent
MUKTHI SATYAM  Independent
DHARAVATH RAVINDRA KUMAR  Independent

Mulug (ST) (3 Goaar Candidates: No Goaar Winner)
Winner: ANASURA DASARI  Telugu Desam
AJMIRA KRISHNAVENI  Bharatiya Janata Party
PODEM VEERAIAH  Indian National Congress
KHETHAVATH JAYARAM  Praja Rajyam Party
BANDA SAMMAIAH  Marxist Communist Party of India (S.S. Srivastava)
KALTHI YARRAIAH  Independent
BANOTH DEVILA  Independent
BURKA VENKATAIAH  Independent
BURKA MALLAIAH  Independent

Polavaram (ST) (1 Goaar Candidates: No Goaar Winner)
Winner: TELLAM BALA RAJU  Indian National Congress
KURASAM DURGA RAO  Bahujan Samaj Party
PUNEM SINGANNA DORA  Telugu Desam
SARIYAM RAMA LAXMI  Bharatiya Janata Party
KRISHNAMURTHY GARIKAPATI  Lok Satta Party
CHINA GANGA RAJU VANKA  Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation)
BANOTHU JANBABU  Pyramid Party of India
BORAGAM SRINIVASULU  Praja Rajyam Party
SAJJA RAMASWAMI  Republican Party of India (A)
DHARMULA SURESH  Independent
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The following are the 6 Banjara candidates who have won the MP/MLA seats from A.P.
 
1. Mr. Rathod Ramesh - Adilabad / Parliament/ Telugu Desham Party
2. Mr. Balram Naik - Mahabooba bad/ Parliament/Indian National Congress Party
3. Mrs. Suman Rathod - Khanapur / Assembly/ Telugu Desham Party
4. Mrs. Satyavati Rathod - Dornakal / Assembly/ Telugu Desham Party
5. Mrs. Malloth Kavitha - Mahaboobabad/ Assembly/ Indian National Congress Party
6. Mr. Balu Naik - Deverakonda/Assembly/ Indian National Congress Party
 
Source: Dhananjay Naik Mood, Email: dhananjaynaikmood@yahoo.co.in
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Full Name: Ramesh Rathod
Son Of Rathod Mohan
Age: 43 
Sex: Male 
Address: Sevadas Nagar, Utnoor, Adilabad Dist., Andhra Pradesh 
Party: TDP 
Education Qualification: 12th Pass Intermediate, Govt Junior College, Utnoor, Adilabad dist.
Ramesh Rathod, also served as the Chairman of Adilabad Zilla Parishad.
His wife Rathod Suman also contested in Assembly elections as TDP Candidate and Won. 
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Khadoor Sahib, May 16, 2009 (Dharmendra Joshi): Tarn Taran MP and SAD candidate Rattan Singh Ajnala continued his winning spree by defeating his nearest rival Jalandhar MP and Congress candidate Rana Gurjit Singh.

Ajnala (4,67,980) defeated Rana (4,35,720) with a margin of 32,260 votes. BSP candidate SS Shahi could get only 13,333 out of total polled 9,46,683 votes.

Fifteen candidates were in the fray, but all except Ajnala and Rana could not even save their deposits. Some of the independents Darshan Singh got 5,610, Rajendra Rikhi 4,538 and Baba Balkar Singh 2,005 votes. Interestingly, both Ajnala and Rana won all elections they fought before trying their luck from Khadoor Sahib.

However, known for his poll management, Rana succeeded in reducing the margin of Ajnala’s victory this time to 32,260 as compared to 56,934 in 2004. (With thanks from "The Tribune" Chandigarh)  
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Malothu Kavitha defeats senior TRS politician Azmeera Chandulal

WARANGAL: Seasoned politician and former Congress Minister D. S. Redya Naik who won from Dornakal for four consecutive terms had lost this time and surprisingly his daughter Malothu Kavitha, a novice in politics won from Mahababubad Assembly segment.

In his defeat, Mr. Redya Naik seems to have set a record too by losing the seat to another party for the first time since 1957. Congress senior leader Nookala Ramachandra Reddy represented Dornakal constituency from 1957 to 1972 and R. Surender Reddy won this seat four times from 1974 to 1989 and Mr. Redya Naik represented this segment from 1989 to 2009. TDP candidate Satyavathi Rathod who had been contesting from this constituency since 1989 had lost to Mr. Redya Naik in just 5,000 votes first time when she contested. The tribals who are traditionally Congress loyalists strangely desired for a change. Most of them accused Mr. Redya Naik of resorting to nepotism by preventing other tribals from growing in politics. He secured Mahabubabad Assembly seat which was reserved for STs this time for his own daugther Ms. Kavitha. He also played a key role in securing the Mahababubabad Parliamentary seat for his relative Porika Balaram Naik. Strong discontentment against Mr. Redya Naik and sympathy factor to Ms Satyavathi Rathod reversed the voting process. Meanwhile, Ms. Kavitha could secure highest majority among the winners of the party by defeating senior politician and TRS candidate Azmeera Chandulal. (With thanks from "The Hindu")
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Other Goaar Candidate Babu Honna Naik secured 27,130 votes

GULBARGA, May 16, 2009 (Special Correspondent): In a touch-and-go affair, Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly M. Mallikarjun Kharge emerged victorious in the Gulbarga Lok Sabha constituency, defeating Animal Husbandry Minister Revu Naik Belamgi by a margin of just over 13,300 votes.

Mr. Belamgi, who started the race as a dark horse in the constituency dominated by the Congress for decades, established an initial lead at the beginning of the counting of votes on the Gulbarga University campus here on Saturday.

At one stage, to everybody’s surprise, Mr. Belamgi had established a lead of around 10,000 votes. Mr. Kharge edged ahead after counting of votes from 708 polling booths was completed and never looked back. Mr. Kharge’s final tally was 3,45,142 votes against the 3,31,837 polled by Mr. Belamgi.

The BJP did not lead by much in the Assembly segments won by it in the 2008 Assembly elections, and surrendering of the lead to the Congress in the Jewargi Assembly segment proved costly for Mr. Belamgi in what otherwise was a close contest in the other Assembly segments.

Even in the Gulbarga Rural Assembly segment represented by Mr. Belamgi in the Assembly, the lead for the BJP was less than 2,000 votes. The party secured a lead of just over 8,000 votes in the Gulbarga South Assembly segment, represented by the BJP’s Chandrasekhar Patil Revoor. For Mr. Kharge, the solid lead of more than 16,200 votes in the Chitapur Assembly segment.

It was represented by Mr. Kharge, more than 6,900 votes in the Gurmitkal Assembly segment and a lead of 8,792 in the Gulbarga North Assembly segment represented by the former Minister Qamar-ul-Islam, proved crucial.

The lead of nearly 3,000 votes secured in the Jewargi Assembly segment represented by the BJP’s Doddappa Gowda Naribol was the icing on the cake for the Congress. The Congress also gained a lead of more than 4,850 votes in the Sedam Assembly segment represented by Sharanaprakash Patil of the Congress.

Janata Dal (Secular) candidate Babu Honna Naik secured just 27,130 votes and lost his deposit along with seven other candidates, including Bahujan Samaj Party candidate Mahadev S. Dhanni. (With thanks from "The Hindu")
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Bijapur, May 16, 2009 (Staff Correspondent): Ramesh Jigajinagi of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won the Bijapur Lok Sabha seat by defeating Prakash Rathod of Congress by a margin of 42,404 votes.

Of the total 6,49,671 polled votes, Ramesh Jigajinagi secured 3,08,939 and Prakash Rathod secured 2,66,535 votes. Vilasbabu Almelkar (JDS) polled 33,177 votes. Independent candidates Narsappa T. Bandiwaddar got 6,689 votes, Chandrakant R. Lamani (3,270), Nirmala Arakeri (3,573), Ramanna Chalawadi (3,760), Somshekhar Sewalal (4,633), Sudhakar Kanmadi (6,034)and Ambanna Tukaram Harijan got 13,021 votes. Of the72 postal votes, Jigajinagi got 18, Rathod - 13 and Sudhakar Kanmadi (Independent) got one vote. (With thanks from "The Hindu") 
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Only 4 MPs Elected from the 6 Crore Population of Banjaras of India!

Adilabad  (Andhra Pradesh)
Winner Rathod Ramesh of Telugu Desam Party defeated to Kotnak Ramesh of Indian National Congress with the Margin of 115087 Votes.
 
Mahabubabad (Andhra Pradesh)
Winner P. Balram of Indian National Congress defeated to Kunja Srinivasa Rao of Communist Party of India with the margin of 68957 Votes.
 
Khadoor Sahib (Punjab)
Winner Dr. Rattan Singh Ajnala of Shiromani Akali Dal defeated to Rana Gurjeet Singh of Indian National Congress with the margin of 32260 votes.

Bijapur (Karnataka)
Winner Ramesh Chandappa Jigajinagi of Bharatiya Janata Party defeated to Prakash Kubasing Rathod of Indian National Congress, with the margin of 42404 Votes.
 
Gulbarga (Karnataka)
Winner Mallikarjun Kharge of Indian National Congress defeated to Revunaik Belamgi of Bharatiya Janata Party, with the margin of 13404 Votes.
 
Yavatmal-Washim (Maharashtra)
Winner Bhavana Gawali (Patil) of Shivsena defeated to Harising Rathod of Indian National Congress, with the margin of 56,951 Votes.
 
Beed (Maharashtra)
Winner Munde Gopinathrao Pandurang of Bharatiya Janata Party is leading from Kokate Ramesh Baburao (Adaskar) of Nationalist Congress Party with the margin of 140921 Votes.
Posted on May 16, 2009 -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  

The move is expected to cause political embarrassment for both Yeddyurappa and his son B Y Raghavendra since it was tacitly conveyed to the community during the polls that Puttaiah’s appointment had been cleared by the CM.

Dr. E.T. Puttaiah of Lambani Community addressing a seminar in Shimoga.

TUMKUR: It was a battle for the top slot in the realms of academia which became a turf war for political upmanship played behind the corridors of power.

The government’s decision to appoint Dr S C Sharma as the new Vice-Chancellor of Tumkur University, instead of Dr E T Puttaiah — a move many believe to be steamrolled by the RSS lobby has caused ripples from Bangalore to Shimoga.

Sharma’s appointment over Puttaiah, who belongs to the Lambani community, a SC community, has not gone down well with the community leaders who had lobbied hard for one of their own.

An academic from the Lambani community even termed the government’s decision as a ‘historical blunder.’ Puttaiah would have been the first VC from the backward Lambani community.

In fact, Puttaiah was so sure of the appointment that when it was denied to him, he had to be put on medication for hypertension, sources said.

The move is expected to cause political embarrassment for both Yeddyurappa and his son B Y Raghavendra since it was tacitly conveyed to the community during the polls that Puttaiah’s appointment had been cleared by the CM.

However, those in the know of things say that the appointment was kept in abeyance till the polls were over as Congress leader Oscar Fernandes had caught wind of it. Sources said Fernandes played his part in ensuring that both the CM and his son did not draw political mileage from the appointment.

On the other hand, Sharma, principal of R V Engineering College, had the backing of the RSS and Bihar Dy CM Sushil Kumar Modi. Oscar Fernandes, keen to deny Yeddyurappa any political advantage, had also backed Sharma.

Sharma’s appointment has also come as a blow to Aravinda Limbavali, minister for higher education, who had allegedly lobbied for Dr Ananthan of Mysore University whose name did not even make it to the shortlist.

Meanwhile, pro-Dalit organisations in Shimoga have started protests and have called Yeddyurappa anti-Dalit. (With thanks from expressbuzz.com)
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"Jab hum vote hi nahin karenge to netalog humko kya denge": Kannadiga Banjaras

Three fringe communities in Mumbai remain excluded from the voters' list. They cannot participate in the elections of the world's largest democracy
Gajanan Khergamker Mumbai

While India's polity slugs it out to settle scores; makes new inroads and reaches out to get a voice for their cronies, a few communities continue to remain without representation. And, for all the wrong reasons. For one, they still battle the age-old scourge - the dodgy voters' list which refuses to accept their existence and thus deprives them of a voice that the Republic of India ought to guarantee.

Hardnews takes a look at three communities in Mumbai silenced by their forced non-involvement in India's general elections that symbolises the unfortunate drift.

All in vain

Yaddi Kavita Rathod can't stop blaming fate for her inability to get a ration card for herself. "I tried very hard to include my name in the ration card, for years now. But, still haven't succeeded," she says. "If my name was included in the ration card, I could have cast my vote. Then, probably, the local politician would have tended to our problems," she says. Running from pillar to post, Kavita, a maid-servant, has been unsuccessful like most of her contemporaries to update her ration card.

But then, having a ration card didn't do her neighbour Sangeeta Hiroo Rathod any good either. The 22-year-old fish-cleaner has a ration card in place but has been unable to get her name included in the voters' list. "Kya karega, bohut kochis karke bhi koi payda nahin hai. Woh bolte hain ki tumhara kya thikana, aaj idhar to kal udhar! (What to do? I tried a lot but to no avail. The authorities say that we don't have a fixed place to call home)," she rues in a typically affected Hindi.

Apparently, even a last-ditch effort to get her name into the voters' list in exchange for a bribe didn't help. "Baaki sab ka kaise hota hai, kya maloom (Wonder how others manage to do it)," says the Yaddi as Kannadiga Banjaras - traditionally gypsies - are popularly known in Mumbai.

The Kannadiga Banjaras work mostly as domestic helps or in the city's Sassoon Docks cleaning catch from the sea such as prawns, lobsters, fish and octopus for companies who offer the service to dealers. While most of them live in the city's slums, they don't have any identification papers necessary for living in a city. So, it's difficult for their children to avail of any regularised education. And, once they turn four, the balwadis, where discerning Yaddis like Kavita admit their children for basic education, begin to ease them out.

"Mein apni bachchi ko mere jaise nahin banana chahti hoon, lekin kya karoon. Ek birth certificate bhi to nahin hai, ration card to door ki baat. School mein dakhla kaise karaoongi. Jab hum vote hi nahin karenge to netalog humko kya denge (I don't want my daughter to become like me but what to do. She doesn't even have a birth certificate leave aside a ration card. How will I get her admitted to school? And, when we can't vote, why will the politicians bother about our plight?" says Kavita.

Fight till the end

Like Yaddis, low-caste Gujarati sweepers, too, are entangled in the caste mesh. For the Gujarati sweeper who collects the daily garbage from the streets of Mumbai and comprises nearly half of the total sweeper population in the municipal corporation, voting is a right that doesn't come easy. Looked down even today by higher caste shopkeepers who refuse to be even touched by members of this caste, only voting could provide them the right to voice their dissent or be taken seriously. But, that isn't happening. At least, not so soon or so easily.

For Bhavnagar's Jethiben Parmar, who has spent more than four decades in Mumbai, 15 years in Mumbai's Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) as a sweeper, a voting right means the world. Prompt as can be, Jethi got her name included in the voters' list immediately after her marriage in Mumbai in 1969. But that was then, when things were less complicated.

Today, 40 years later, when things have got computerised, she is struggling to get her 27-year-old son Pankaj's name included in the voting list. "Nau saal se dhakka kha kha ke thak gayi hoon mein. Mein haar nahin manoongi. Pankaj ka naam voters' list mein daal ke rahoongi (For the last nine years, I have been chasing the authorities. I am tired. But, I won't give up until I get Pankaj's name included in the voters' list)," she says.

The low-caste Gujarati sweepers have been ostracised in the worst possible manner. Till date, villages in Gujarat practise untouchability where low-caste members are forced to live on the outskirts of the village and are avoided like the plague. They have a separate well for water and don't interact with others as a rule. Any transgression is a taboo. Any physical interaction calls for ritualistic cleansing.

Empowering members of this community with equal voting rights provides them the courage to fight against the injustice aimed to destroy their very existence. Also, voting rights provide them the voice with which they can protect their own social mien. But this has been decisively denied to them.

Not on the list

The worker picking up vessels filled with sand, sewage or stones at places, usually public utility sites, is usually the quintessential Tamilian. Menial jobs that require relentless physical labour like digging for hours, handling the onslaught of stench while working inside manholes to unclog them or cleaning gutter lines are handled best by them.

While it is almost always the Tamilians who put in the physical labour in road-construction jobs and menial gutter-related tasks, but they don't have voting rights either. And, quite contrary to their arduous tasks is their soft-as-candyfloss nature. Simple to the core, Annamalai, who digs on road construction sites relentlessly from 9 am to 9 pm - a full 12-hour labour and earns Rs 250 per day, doesn't know how to count.

When Hardnews asks how much he earns in a month and how much he saves, he says, "Khana peena ke saath, do hazaar bhada deta hai. Bachta kuch bhi nahin (After paying for my meals, I manage to pay a rent of Rs 2,000 per month. So, I save no money)."

So, Annamalai stays for six months in Mumbai slogging for his living and then moves back to his village Sangyam in Tamil Nadu where he does agricultural work for his family. His wife and three children live in the village. Then once again, he returns to Mumbai in search of work. Doesn't make much sense, right? But, ask Annamalai and the 20-year-old (by his own assertion) sinewy worker will say that he has been doing it for over 25 years now.

Annamalai has no idea of time or his own age. But, thanks to the din of poll campaigns all around, he knows that he has to vote. And that, voting somehow will make his life better. However hard he tries though this year, too, he won't be able to cast his vote. "Voting list mein naam aata hi nahin (My name never figures in the voters' list)," he says. Same is the story of his co-workers.

Nobody remembers

It's election time.  Yet again, members of all the three communities will be bypassed. Political bigwigs, who normally get off their campaigning vehicles to shake hands and acknowledge their otherwise lowly presence, even if it were to ask for a vote, won't stop by. And, life will go on as usual.
MAY 2009

(With thanks from hardnewsmedia.com)
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Prominent Marathi Daily Newspaper Lok Satta published a cover story about Shri Shankar Ade of Pohradevi in their magazine "Lok Prabha"on Labour Day. It is a well written story by prominent writer and journalist Shri Giriraj Sawant about a worker who is working for the betterment of Bhatke and Vimukt people. This kind of action by Lok Satta is recognition of a simple social worker. We appreciate Lok Satta for this article. Hopefully Shri Shankar Ade will must get encouragement from this article. Shri Shankar Ade is publishing a weekly newspaper Washim Wartahar for Nomadic Tribes. For our visitors we are presenting the link of this cover story. Please click on this link to read article about Shri Shankar Ade:   http://www.loksatta.com/lokprabha/20090508/cover04.htm

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Pohradevi, April 20, 2009 (Shankar Ade): Our Video Channel GoaarTimes of YouTube.com has uploaded videos of Pohradevi Yaatra 2009. These videos are picturized by our representative Shri Ritesh Kamal of Phagwara, Punjab. Through these videos we tried to present the celebrations of Pohradevi Mela 2009. Please click on the links below to start watching videos of Pohradevi Mela 2009:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I16IYbndTQY&feature=channel_page

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FL-3ZxlBL2o&feature=channel

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Demand is for Banjara Development Corporation and Banjara Bhavans 

Bagalkot, April 27, 2009 (Staff Correspondent): Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) general secretary and MLC Prakash Rathod alleged that the State Government has not released funds for development of Banjara community which is backward in all respects.

Mr. Rathod told presspersons here on Monday that the poll promise of the Bharatiya Janata Party was that on assuming office they would set up the Banjara Development Corporation and release Rs. 10 lakh to every district for construction of Banjara Bhavans for overall development of the community. After assuming office, the BJP Government has not released any funds for the uplift of the Banjara community, he said.

It was when Devaraj Urs was the Chief Minister that the Banjara community was included in the list of Scheduled Castes. K.T. Rathod was the Social Welfare Minister then.

Mr. Rathod said the inclusion of the community in the Scheduled Castes list provided a platform for the social, economic and political development of the Banjaras in the State.

“Instead of releasing funds for welfare of backward and minority communities in the State Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa is busy releasing funds for maths and religious institutions with the intention to gain political mileage,” he alleged.

Mr. Rathod said that though Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa had taken oath in the name of farmers Mr. Yeddyurappa had failed to address their issues and had not provided them with uninterrupted power supply as per his promise.

During its election campaign, the Congress party would highlight the failure of the State Government in handling the problems of farmers, poor and the middle class.

He alleged that due to improper and unscientific method of distributing ration cards the poor and people of the middle class were in a pathetic state. These people are made to stand in long queues at Nemmadi Kendra to get the cards wasting their valuable time, he added.

Mr. Rathod claimed that the Congress candidate G.T. Patil has an edge over his rival P.C. Gaddigoudar of BJP. Mr. Patil will win the elections with a considerable margin, Mr. Rathod said.

The development programmes launched by the United Progressive Alliance Government in the last five years would also be highlighted during the poll campaigns, he added. (With thanks from "The Hindu")
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(1) Mata Desan Devi Mela at the Temple of Mata Desan Devi Ji Naamsaut, Brahm Sarovar, Kurukshetra, Haryana on June 17, 18, 19, 2009 (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday).

(2) 329th Death Anniversary of Baba Lakhi Shah Ji Banjara at Village Qasimpura, Bhopa Road, Mujaffarnagar, Uttrakhand on June 18, 2009 (From 9 AM to 3PM). Contact Person: Shri Charan Singh Nayak, Cell Phone: 94125-83931.

(3)  Baba Hathi Ram Festival at Village Gunachaur, Near City Banga, Punjab on June 17, 18, 19, 2009. Contact Person Shri Darshan Singh Lehil, Cell Phone: 98157-36641.    

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Gulbarga, April 20, 2009: BJP’s Prime Ministerial candidate Sri L. K. Advani today addressed a huge election rally in Gulbarga during his second round of election campaign in the sate.  Speaking to a large crowd that assembled to greet him in Gulbarga Sri Advani declared “the 2009 general elections are important in the history of India.   The country needs good governance and a stable leader and people should think about the welfare and development of the country. Voters should exercise their franchise by keeping these factors in mind”.

Addressing an election meeting here in support of party candidate Revu Naik Belamgi, Mr Advani said, ''21st century belongs to us and India will remain ahead of all other developed countries in the world.'

Calling upon the Raja and the Praja (the leader and the people) to work in unison Shri Advani said “no power on earth can stop India from emerging as a powerful nation in the world.  If the 20th century belongs to Europe, Russia and America BJP led NDA would ensure that the 21st century belongs to India”.
Sri Advani promised that if voted to power the party would strive hard to implement all the assurances given in the manifesto for the welfare of farmers, security forces and for safeguarding the security of the country.  Pointing out that Congress government has not done justice to Hyderabad Karnataka in the last five decades Sri Advani promised to make a detailed study of article 371 of the constitution if NDA comes to power, to provide justice to the neglected Hyderabad Karnataka area.

He called upon the people to elect BJP’s candidate in Gulbarga Revu Naik Belamgi with a thumping majority so as to provide more strength to BJP led NDA government at the centre.  L.K. Advani also said that Revu Naik Belamgi has willingly agreed to abide by the party’s decision to contest from Gulbarga despite holding a ministerial post in the state and he should be rewarded with a handsome win.

BJP candidate Revu Naik Belamgi and other leaders addressed in the meeting.
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Why Gopinath Munde, BJP’s only mass leader in Maharashtra, is contesting a Lok Sabha seat this time? 

Mumbai, April 18, 2009 (Meena Menon): Five-time MLA and national general secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Gopinath Munde is making a bid for Parliament this time round. “I have spent 25 years in the State legislature and I have been national general secretary of the party for two years. Though I am familiar with State issues, I want them to get a more national focus,” says 58-year-old Mr. Munde, the BJP’s only mass leader in Maharashtra who was Deputy Chief Minister in the Shiv S ena-BJP State government.

After the death of his brother-in-law Pramod Mahajan in tragic circumstances, there is no major leader in New Delhi to represent the State. Mr. Munde hopes to fill that vacuum. “Maharashtra’s image in New Delhi is weak, I want to articulate State issues in Parliament.”

Elected from Renapur Assembly in Beed district, he belongs to the Vanzari community. Over the years, he has been consolidating the other backward classes (OBCs), something that should stand him in good stead in the Beed Lok Sabha seat. His opponent is a Maratha, Ramesh Adaskar. Beed was won last time by an NCP Maratha candidate Jaisingrao Gaikwad Patil, who has since joined the Shiv Sena after being denied a ticket.

“Beed is the only district that has about 30 km of railway line. I want to improve that by connecting Beed to Mumbai and the rest of the country. There are airstrips elsewhere in Marathwada but not in Beed,” he points out. Part of the backward Marathwada region, Beed has few industries and is drought prone. It is a cotton growing area and Mr. Munde is keen on a textile zone there to help the local farmers. He feels the solution to end the drought is to interlink the rivers in the State.

Another important demand to the Centre will be increased funds for the State. “Maharashtra contributes the largest revenue but we don’t get adequate facilities or infrastructure. We need coal linkages and more gas for power projects,” he says.

Mr. Munde is also keen on promoting tourism in the State and for farmer friendly policies. “I want a minimum income guarantee scheme for farmers, so in the case of crop losses farmers don’t lose out,” he says.

On the tricky issue of Maratha reservation, Mr. Munde says he is for it, provided the existing 52 per cent quota for various communities is untouched. “I am also not against them getting OBC status, but the reservation should only extend to jobs and education. There can be a way out legally,” he feels. (With thanks from "The Hindu")
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Dr. D.T. Naik IPS  Retd. Addl DGP is Contesting from MAHABOOBABAD (ST  Reserved Seat in Andhra Pradesh) Loksabha Seat on behalf of Praja Rajyam Party.

I would like to tell my views about Dr. D.T. Naik.

He hails from Panyam (Mandal) Kurnool Dist. of Andhra Pradesh. He is from Agriculture family. He did his MBBS from Kurnool Medical College and some years he practiced as a Doctor and then he started preparing for Civil Services Exams. Very first attempt he got IPS.

He worked as SP, DIG, Addl Commissioner and Retired as Addl DGP in Govt. of Andhra Pradesh.

He worked as DIG of Police in Warangal Range. That time he Observed so many problems of  Banjaras in Warangal Dist. During his tenure he changed so many Naxalites and many naxalites were surrendered. He knows Local Problems very well because he hails from Agriculture family. He is having very good knowledge in Medicine, because he has done MBBS.

He is a very good orator and he is having fluency in English, Hindi, Telugu languages and Banjara Dialect.

RAM CHOWHAN
Hyderabad (Andhra Pradesh)
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It seems that senior BJP leader Gopinath Munde has bad luck with helicopters. On Sunday, Mr. Munde's chopper lost its way when the BJP national vice-president was travelling to Vaijapur during his campaign in Marathwada. Fortunately, his chopper found its destination in the nick of time, minutes before it would have run out of fuel. On Monday, Mr. Munde reportedly missed a rally because his helicopter couldn't find its designated landing site, and last week, Mr. Munde's helicopter was left circling in the skies for two hours because of trouble with landing co-ordinates. Either Mr. Munde needs a new pilot - and fast - or he might perhaps do well to stick to ground transport. (With thanks from "The Hindu")
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Hi sir,
Myself NARESH PAWAR from Khanauri Mandi (Punjab).
I am Sh. Ram Prakash's son settled in Ludhiana, in a private sector.
I visited Banjara Times website. It is your excellent creation. I am very thankful for the news about my father Shri Ram Prakash Ji. Banjara Times is very big approach in our society. I am very happy and everybody proud of you. If you recieve this mail please reply me.
THANKS and BEST REGARDS,
NARESH KUMAR PAWAR
Phone: 98888-52144
LUDHIANA, PUNJAB.

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GULBARGA, April 13, 2009 (T.V. Sivanandan): The contest in the Gulbarga Lok Sabha constituency is between Congress candidate M. Mallikarjun Kharge and Animal Husbandry Minister Revu Naik Belamgi of the Bharatiya Janata Party, and the former appears to have an edge over his rivals, of whom there are nine. The Janata Dal (Secular) seems to be a spent force.

The constituency, which is dominated by the Other Backward Classes, Minorities and the Scheduled Castes, has remained a Congress stronghold. Other parties have won only twice: the Janata Dal was victorious in 1996 and the BJP won in 1998.

The Congress is likely to get the Scheduled Caste and minority vote, which accounts for 37 to 39 per cent in the constituency. The Other Backward Classes constitute around 30 per cent of the voters. In the 2004 Lok Sabha elections, the Congress retained the seat with a margin of more than 57,400 votes, gaining leads in four of the eight Assembly segments.

In the 2008 Assembly elections, the Congress won five of the eight Assembly segments: Gulbarga North, Afzalpur, Chitapur, Sedam, and Gurmitkal. The BJP had Gulbarga South, Gulbarga Rural and Jewargi.

The BJP has taken a calculated risk in fielding Mr. Belamgi against Mr. Kharge. The Congress leader, who won nine successive Assemble elections, has never lost once. The BJP is hoping to win the support of the Banjara community to which Mr. Belamgi belongs along with the expected backing of the Veerashaivas. Incidentally, Mr. Belamgi too has not tasted defeat and has won four successive Assembly elections.

Same community: However, the Banjara community vote is likely to be divided because JD(S) candidate Babu Honna Naik also belongs to the community and is related to the BJP candidate.

The inclusion of the Chincholi Assembly segment, which has around 110 Banjara tandas (hamlets), in the Bidar Lok Sabha constituency in the delimitation process is a major setback to the BJP, which had hoped for Banjara support. (With thanks from "The Hindu") 
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Gulbarga, April 11, 2009 (T.V. Sivanandan) : The battle lines are drawn and the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party will revive their battle for supremacy in the Gulbarga (Reserved) Lok Sabha constituency. Although there are 10 candidates in the fray for the April 23 elections, the main contest is between the Congress and BJP as the Janata Dal (Secular) has lost its relevance.

The Congress has fielded one of its senior-most leaders M. Mallikarjun Kharge. The BJP, by nominating Animal Husbandry Minister Revu Naik Belamagi, who belongs to the Banjara community, which has considerable number of votes in the constituency, has taken the fight to the rival camp. The Janata Dal (S) started its quest for the Gulbarga Lok Sabha seat on the wrong foot by selecting a rank outsider, Babu Honna Naik of the Banjara community, who hails from Basavakalyan taluk in Bidar district.

Mr. Naik’s campaign in the constituency is still a non-starter while both the Congress and the BJP candidates have completed one round of touring the eight Assembly segments in the constituency.

The others in the fray are: Janata Dal (United) candidate and journalist Shankar Kodla and six others: K.T. Pallusakar, Ravikumar Shalimani Sedam, Shankar Jadav, H.V. Diwakar, and Shivakumar Kollur.

On paper the Congress appears to be strong as it won five of the eight Assembly segments while BJP won three in the 2008 elections. But, the growing clout of the BJP in the constituency is a matter of worry for the campaign managers of the Congress.

In the 2008 Assembly elections, the Congress had won Chitapur, Gulbarga North, Afzalpur, Sedam, and Gurmitkal, leaving the Gulbarga (South), Gulbarga (Rural) and Jewargi segments to the BJP. But the Congress polled just 41,000 votes more than the BJP.

Mr. Kharge won from Chitapur Assembly segment by a margin of more than 17,000 votes in the Assembly elections and Mr. Belamagi won from Gulbarga Rural Assembly constituency by a margin of around 17,000 votes. (With thanks from "The Hindu")
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Lok Sabha Constituency Gulbarga

Move: Congress leader Basavantreddy Motakpalli (left) joining the BJP in the presence of Minister Lakshman Savadi, Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa and Minister Revu Naik Belamagi at Sedam in Gulbarga on Sunday.

Gulbarga, April 4, 2009 (Special Correspondent): Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa addressed public meetings in five Assembly segments of Gurmitkal, Sedam, Chitapur, Afsalpur and Gulbarga South in Gulbarga Lok Sabha constituency on Sunday. He was campaigning for BJP candidate and Animal Husbandry Minister Revu Naik Belamagi.

The Chief Minister arrived here in a helicopter accompanied by the district in-charge Minister Lakshman Savadi and Kannada actor Saikumar at Gurmitkal and went to Sedam, Afsalpur and Chitapur before coming by road to Gulbarga to address his last public meeting for the day before leaving for Bangalore by train.

Mr. Yeddyurappa said Congress party was communal as it was sowing seeds of differences among different communities to stay in power.

BJP candidate and Animal Husbandry Minister Revu Naik Belamagi said successive MPs from Gulbarga had done very little for the development of the constituency. (With thanks from "The Hindu")
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Shri Gopal Mandir Haridwar

Devotees of the Shri Gopal Mandir congratulating newly appointed Mahant Shri Ram Prakash Ji. (Photo: Manu Pawar)

Haridwar, April 3, 2009 (Manu Pawar): Shri Ram Prakash of Village Khanauri, Near Patran City is nominated as Mahant of Shri Gopal Mandir Haridwar. It was a pending issue from the death of Shri Bhagwan Das Ji Maharaj. After long discussions it was decided on Shivratri Festival that Mahant will be nominated on Ram Navami. Near about 500 representatives of Bazigar Biradri from Punjab and Haryana gathered in Shri Gopal Mandir Haridwar on March 3, 2009. Representatives nominated five saints related with Shri Gopal Mandir Haridwar and give them authority to nominate Mahant. Five saints discussed the issue separately and then nominated Shri Ram Prakash as Mahant. Shri Ram Prakash is son of late Shri Bhagwan Das Ji Maharaj. Interested persons can contact to Shri Ram Prakash Ji at the Temple phone no. 1334-228623.
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Bijapur Lok Sabha Constituency

The process starts: Congress candidate for the Bijapur Lok Sabha constituency Prakash Rathod filing his nomination papers on Friday.

Bijapur, April 3, 2009 (Staff Reporter): Congress candidate for the Bijapur Lok Sabha constituency former cricketer and MLC Prakash Rathod filed his nomination papers here on Friday.Supporters of Mr. Rathod and Congress workers gathered in front of Shri Siddeshwar temple and went in a procession to the Deputy Commissioner’s office. Accompanied by MLAs M.B. Patil and A.S. Patil Nadahalli and district unit president of the Congress Sharanappa Sunagar, Mr. Rathod submitted his nomination papers to the Deputy Commissioner and District Returning Officer C.M. Shirol.

Earlier, addressing a meeting of party workers at Darbar High School ground, Mr. Rathod alleged that the BJP Government in the State had failed to address problems of farmers and the common man. The Government had promised that it would ensure uninterrupted power supply to farmers, but it had failed to do so. The poor were being put to hardships to get below the poverty line (BPL) cards owing to “complicated” and “unscientific” method of issuing the cards, he said.

Mr. Rathod owns movable property worth about Rs. 2.35 crore and immovable property worth Rs. 2.2 crore, according to the affidavit submitted by him along with the nomination papers. Mr. Rathod has Rs. 2,24,000 in cash and bank deposits of Rs. 10.6 lakh. His wife, Sujata Rathod, has Rs. 1.56 lakh in cash and bank deposits of Rs. 3.89 lakh. His daughter, Dishitha Rathod, has Rs. 6,000 in cash and Rs. 5 lakh as bank deposit and his son, Chirag Rathod, has Rs. 4.59 lakh as bank deposit.

Mr. Rathod owns gold and silver ornaments worth Rs. 1 lakh and his wife has jewellery worth Rs. 4.97 lakh. His daughter owns jewellery worth Rs. 1.17 lakh. His wife and daughter own two cars worth Rs. 4 lakh each.

He owns two acres of agriculture land worth Rs. 20 lakh and two residential buildings worth Rs. 1.32 crore and Rs. 68 lakh at Vasantnagar and HSR Layout respectively in Bangalore.

Mr. Rathod has taken loan of Rs. 1.63 crore from various banks and financial institutions. (With thanks from "The Hindu")
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Mahabubabad Lok Sabha Constituency

WARANGAL, April 3, 2009 (Staff Reporter): The Lambada Hakkula Porata Samithi has extended its support to the Congress candidate for Mahabubabad Parliament seat Mr. Porika Balram Naik.

Addressing a press conference here on Friday, Samithi president Mr Tejavath Ballaiah Naik said they opposed the Praja Rajyam candidate Mr. D. T. Naik as he was not aware of the local issues and local problems.

The Praja Rajyam party leadership proved itself as being bias to the Telangana region by not fielding a candidate of the region.

“It is the culture of Andhra leaders who thrust their views on others. When there are many educated Lambada candidates available in Telangana region, the party chose a candidate from Rayalaseema region,” he said. Speaking to the newsmen, Mr. Balram Naik welcomed the decision of Lamabada Hakkula Porata Samithi and thanked the leaders for their gesture. “I hail from Mulug area and I am known for my social work. I appeal to people to vote for me for better development,” he said. (With thanks from "The Hindu")
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Record breaking gathering of Banjaras paid homage to Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj!

Goaar Singer Lakhbir Lakha  performed at Pohradevi on the eve of April 2, 2009. (Photo: Ritesh Kamal)

Miss Gurinder Naaz performed at Pohradevi on the eve of April 2, 2009. (Photo: Shankar Ade)

Gathering of Banjaras at Pohradevi on the eve of April 2, 2009. Estimated 50,000 Banjaras enjoyed Goaar Boli programme. (Photo: Ritesh Kamal)  

Goaar Singer Lakhbir Lakha and Gurinder Naaz performed at Pohradevi on the eve of April 2, 2009. Dr. T.C. Rathod, President, Maharashtra State Unit of All India Banjara Seva Sangh, Shri Radhe Shyam Ade, Founder of Sevalal Army, Shri Sant Ram Kheeva (Dharamsot) are seen in the picture. (Photo by Shankar Ade)

Devotees getting Blessings from Banjara Rashtar Sant Shri Ramrao Ji Maharaj at Pohradevi Yaatra. (Photo: Shankar Ade)

Devotees from Bijapur, Karnataka singing Bhajans of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj at Pohradevi Yaatra on March 3, 2009. (Photo: Shankar Ade)

Sale of traditional Banjara Bangles at Pohradevi Mela on April 3, 2009. (Photo: Shankar Ade) 

Dancer and Actress Reenaji Banjara (Center) from Tanda Phool Umri in traditional Banjara dress at Pohradevi with other Banjara Ladies. (Photo: Ritesh Kamal)

Devotees are waiting for Darshan at Pohradevi Yaatra. (Photo: Shankar Ade)

Shri Haribhau Rathod, Dr. T.C. Rathod, Shri Radhe Shyam Ade  releasing CD of Sevalal Bhajans by Sevalal Army. (Photo: Ritesh Kamal)

Darshan of Pohradevi Temple: Jai Sevalal Kaho, Sada Sukhi Raho! (Photo: Ritesh Kamal) 

Ritesh Kamal (Representative of banjaratimes.com) with the family of Shri Shankar Ade at Pohradevi.

Welcome Banner by Shri Guru Sevalal Society USA at the Bus Stand of Pohradevi.

Shri Radhe Shyam Ade, Shri Lakhbir Lakha and Banjara Times representative Shri Ritesh Kamal at Pohradevi Temple.

Historical Neem Tree related with the life of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj is attraction of traditional devotees. They wanna bring a piece of this tree to back home for their good luck. (Photo: Shankar Ade)

March 1, 2009: Pohradevi Yaatra: Devotees start coming at their Kashi. (Photo: Shankar Ade) 

All ways going to Sevalal Temple are full with traditional devotees. (Photo: Ritesh Kamal)

All stalls were full with the crowds of devotees came at Pohradevi from different states of India. (Photo: Ritesh Kamal) 

Pohradevi, April 3, 2009: (Shankar Ade, Ritesh Kamal): Every way goes to the Pohradevi, known as Kashi of Banjaras, was full with the devotees of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj on March 3, 2009. Every year on the day of Ram Navami, Pohradevi Yaatra is giving Banjaras of India a chance of get together. Banjaras known with too many names i.e. Lambani, Bazigar, Goaar, Gawar, Gavaria, Lambadas, and Labanas come here to pay their tribute to Kul-Guru of Banjaras Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj. This year gathering of Banjaras was record breaking i.e. estimated at 8 to 10 lacks. Yaatra was started from March 1, 2009. Banjara devotees start coming at Pohradevi from March 1, 2009. Traders start establishing all kind of stalls/shops at Pohradevi. Pohradevi is a small village. Every inch of Pohradevi is filled with the devotees and at night, devotees sleep here and there.

On the evening of March 2, 2009 big ground of Pohradevi was filled with Banjaras in front of the stage settled by various organizations of Banjaras. Banjara Samaj Parivartan Abhiyaan, Shri Sant Sevalal Maharaj Satsang and Pohradevi Yaatra Samiti, All India Banjara Seva Sangh (Maharashtra State Unit) and Sevalal Army are among those Banjara organizations who have control of stage. Program was full of Goaar Dialect Songs, Bhajans, Dances, Comedy and Poetry. Goaar Singer and MH One Channel’s Coca Cola Jodi No. One Award Winner Shri Lakhbir Lakha and Miss Gurinder Naaz were star attraction and most publicized artist in this program. Lakhbir Lakha and Gurinder Naaz presented Goaar Dialect Songs and Sevalal Bhajans. Huge gathering accept their performance with numerous clapping. Bhajans CD presented by Sevalal Army was released by Goaar Leader and M.P. Shri Hari Bhau Rathod, Shri T.C. Rathod (President, AIBSS Maharashtra) and Shri Radhe Shyam Ade (Founder, Sevalal Army). 
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Dr. (Mrs.) Surya Dhananjay's Book Release Function by Ujwal Creations - A Grand Success

Hyderabad: By grace of god and all our friends and well wishers, the function organised by Ujwal Creations for releasing the two books written by the reknowned Banjara Lady Associate Professor, Dr. (Mrs. ) Surya Dhananjay titled "Nallgonda Jilla Banjara Sahityam - Jeevana Chitrana" and " Ramayana Aranyakandaloni Ashramalu - Sreeramuni Darshanaalu" has been a Grand Success.

The cultural events organised by Ujwal Creations were the high light of the evening and covered in all the leading local Telugu and English dailies. The book release function was organised after the cultural programmes. The 1000 Capacity Auditorium of Ravindra Bharathi, Hyderabad was full of Banjara students, common people, Administrators and professors of different Districts and Universities of Andhra Pradesh. The Two Books alongwith the Logo of Ujwal Creations was released by Gyanapeeth Awardee, Padmabhushan Dr. C. Narayana Reddy.

Dr. R. Kavitha Prasad, Director of Culture, Govt. of A.P. was the Special Guest and the other dignitries graced the occasion were Former Vice-Chancellor of P.S. Telugu University, Hyderabad, Dr. N. Gopi, Prof. T. Kishan Rao, Head, Dept. of Telugu, Osmania University, Prof. Sumathi Narendra, O.U, Prof. Kasireddy Venkat Reddy, O.U, Dr. Ravi Premalatha, Shri M. Champa lal, Special Collector, Pulichinthala Project. The Supervisor of the research conducted by Dr. Surya Dhananjay, Prof. Masana Chennappa was felicitated on the occasion. The Special invitees and guests attended the gathering have appreciated the efforts of Dr. Surya Dhananjay in bringing out the real and original literature of the Banjaras into a good literary work and adding the same to the main stream of Telugu Literature. They expressed their opinion that the book written on Banjaras is a work of strong credentialities and directed Dr. Surya Dhananjay put efforts for bringing out some other areas of Banjara Literature.
 
M. Dhananjay Naik, M.Sc, LL.M.
General Secretary,
Ujwal Creations, Hyderabad.
Cell Phone: 99499 96902
E-mail: dhananjaynaikmood@yahoo.co.in 

Photo: Prof. Surya Dhananjay and Chief Guest C. Narayana Reddy at a book launch at Ravindra Bharathi on Monday. HYDERABAD: It was a fascinating tribal dance and music show all the way. The tribals from various districts of Andhra Pradesh including students from Hyderabad presented a colourful performance depicting the tribal life. The occasion was the book release function of Prof. Suryadhanunjay’s two literary works. The first book, namely Ramayana Aranya Kandamloni ashramalu contains stories and incidents related to the Ramayana, whereas the second book “Nalgonda zilla banjara sahithyam” is all about the tribals of Nalgonda District. Prior to the start of the book release, cultural programmes were performed by the tribals. The event began with a folk song and dance sequence by the lambadas of the Telangana region. The women in their traditional tribal attire drew huge applause.from the audience for their act. It was followed by a performance including a song specially sung to bid farewell to a bride after marriage. Students of the community studying in the city participated in the event. “I am very happy to see our culture being promoted at such a platform. It reminds us of our nativity and the lively life we lead,” said Surender of Mahboobnagar district. Recollecting their origin he adds, “Due to famine in Rajasthan, our ancestors came down to Andhra Pradesh. But we are proud that we still didn’t forget our roots”. Another student, Sardar from Nalgonda district says, “We have a festival called Teej once in five years, for nine days, which is celebrated with great grandeur. It covers all the art and cultural shows of the tribals”. The event ended with the book release function where C.Narayan Reddy was the chief guest and author Suryadhanunjay spoke on the subject.
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The Uther pooja of Sevalal Maharaj after 41 days of Praana Pratishta and inauguration of temple was held on March 25 and March 26, 2009.

Mr. and Mrs. Harilal Naik of Mumbai were tied Kankanam and performed pooja religiously.

Sevagad, March 31, 2009: The Uther Pooja of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj, after 41 days of Praana Pratishta and inauguration of temple, was held on March 25 and March 26, 2009. Five well learned and knowledgeable Brahmins were present to perform the pooja for whole day. Mr. and Mrs. Arjun Rathod, Mr. and Mrs. Harilal Naik of Mumbai, Mr. and Mrs. Tagur Naik, Mr. and Mrs. Aswartha Naik and Mr. and Mrs. Lalya Naik of Anantapur were tied Kankanam and performed pooja religiously. The complete pooja was performed very nicely and properly. Sevaral other devotees were also present. About 50 devotees of Raichur, Karnataka State incidentally were also present for darshan of Sevalal. They felt very happy and participated in Uthar pooja too (in pink dress).                                                                                                                                         
Day by day the devotees for Shri Guru Sevalal Maharaj’s darshan are increasing. When asked to one of the devotees he replied that during last visit he prayed to Sevalal Maharaj and took mannath that he would return if the difficulties his family was facing would come to end, which has been fulfill and hence he came back for performing pooja. Many such live happening are there to list. Seven years back Sevagadh was a Jungle today it is like Kashi of Banjaras. Sant Shri Sevalal Maharaj Charitable Trust is a public trust, all banjaras of the world have right to visit Sevagadh for darshan, arrangements for comfortable staying and food for about 100 devotees at a time would be done after one year. Presently plenty of water supply connected in the area, 85 taps spread all over in the 40 acre land for the same, beautiful weather surrounded  by mountains and the place is  all the time crowded by 500 young school going student of Banjaras. Sevagadh signifies that Banjaras are learning organization, unity, discipline, generosity and god fearing.
Within the span of 7 years SSS Trust managed to purchase 45 to 50 acre land out of which donated 8 acre land to Govt. of A.P. for construction of school. Now about 500 Banjara students are studying. The entire credit should go to charitable trust.    
ON BEHALF OF SEVAGADH TRUST HUMBLE REQUEST TO ALL BANJARAS OF THE WORLD TO VISIT AND TAKE DARSHAN OF SEVALAL  MAHARAJ.                                                               
WITH REGARDS,
HARILAL NAIK                                                                                                                                      
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Mumbai, April 3, 2009 (Anita Harilal Naik): Shri. D.T.Naik I.P.S (Rtd) of Andhra Pradesh is contesting on Praja Rajyam Party, ( Chiranjivi) Ticket from Mahabubabad, A.P for Lok Sabha seat. He is  well known personality in Andhra Pradesh. There are 6.50 lakhs Banjaras in this constituency. In the triangle contest unfortunately all are  Banjara candidates. Shri D.T. Naik has more chances for being elected as he is qualified, popular figure among Banjaras. I wish him all successes in the election.

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We are publishing a list of Goaar Candidates from all states. We collect this information from our sources. If someone has more information about the Goaar Candidates, please mail us the information at our E-mail: omkamal@sbcglobal.net

Congress Party allotted 6 tickets to Goaars in Andhra Pradesh Assembly Elections: (1) Shri Dharamsoth Redya Naik (Dornakal), (2) Smt. Maloth Kavitha (Mahabubabad) (Maloth Kavitha is Daughter of Dharamsoth Redya Naik), (3) Shri Anil Jadhav (Boath), (4) Shri Hari Ajmeeri Naik (Khanapur), (5) Shri Balu Naik (Devarakonda), (6) Dr. Bukya Ramchandraiah (Wyra).
Bhartiya Janta Party allotted 5 tickets to Goaars in Andhra Pradesh: (1) Shri Pathlavath Mangya Naik (Devarakonda), (2) Smt. Azmeera Krishnaveni Naik (Mulugu), (3) Shri Ram Naik (Khanapur), (4) Shri Sitharam Naik (Pinapaka), Shri Parasuram Naik (Dornakal).
TRS allotted 1 Ticket to Goaars in Andhra Pradesh: Ajmeera Chandulal (Mahbubabad)
Parliamentary Candidates from different Parties:
(1) Shri P. Balaram Naik, Constituency: Mahabubabad, Andhra Pradesh, Party: Congress
(2) Shri Banothu Dileep Naik, Constituency: Mahbubabad, Andhra Pradesh, Party: BJP                   
(3) Shri D.T. Naik, Constituency: Mahbubabad, Andhra Pradesh, Party:  Praja Rajyam Party
(4) Shri Banoth Molchand, Constituency: Mahabubabad, Andhra Pradesh, Party: Lok Satta Party
(5) Shri Ramesh Rathod, Constituency: Adilabad, Andhra Pradesh, Party: Telgu Desam
(6) Shri Sadashiv Naik Rathod, Constituency: Adilabad, Andhra Pradesh, Party: BSP
(7) Shri Revu Naik Belamgi, Constituency: Gulbarga, Karnataka, Party: BJP
(8) Babu Honna Naik, Constituency: Gulbarga, Karnataka, Party: JD (S)
(9) Dr. Ratan Singh Ajnala, Constituency: Khadoor Sahib, Punjab, Party: Shiromani Akali Dal
(10) Shri Haribhau Rathod, Constituency: Washim-Yavatmal, Maharashtra, Party: Congress
(11) Shri Madhav Jadhav, Constituency: Washim Yavatmal, Maharashtra, Party: Maharashtar Nav Nirmaan Sena
(12) Shri Gopinath Munde, Constituency: Beed, Maharashtra, Party: BJP
(13) Shri Rajpal Singh Rathod, Constituency: Jalna, Maharashtra, Party: BSP
(14) Dr. B.D. Chavhan, Constituency: Hingoli, Maharashtra, Party: BSP
(15) Shri Prakash Rathod, Constituency: Bijapur, Karnataka, Party: Congress
(Updated on April 8, 2009, 1.30 A.M. IST)--------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Congress and NCP Candidate from Yavatmal-Washim Parliamentary seat, Shri Haribhau Rathod is working hard for his victory. In the picture above Shri Haribhau Rathod is seen with Shri Manohar Naik, Food and Drug Administration Minister, Shri Subhash Thakre MLA, Shri Prakash Dahake, Shri Chot Mal Gazbi, Shri Keshav Rao Naik, Shri B.S. Rathod Ex MLA at Washim City of Maharashtra. Banjaras of the area are fully supporting Shri Haribhau Rathod and he is sure to give a big defeat to Shiv Sena and BJP candidate. Goaars of the India have well wishes for him, because he already proved that he is a “Active Leader of Banjaras”. (Photo and Details by Shankar Ade)

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All India Bhatke and Vimukt Jaati Sangh performed Dharna at Azad Maidan, Mumbai on March 23, 2009

Akhil Bhartiya Bhatkya and Vimukt Jaati Sangh organized Dharna in Azad Maidan, Mumbai on March 23, 2009 in the leadership of Shri G.G. Chavan and Prof. Motiraj Rathod for the Voting Rights of Bhatkya Vimukt Jaatis. Near about 10,000 people attended this Dharna. In the picture above from right Dr. Nimbaji Rathod (Satara), Shri G.G. Chavan, Prof. Motiraj Rathod, Shri Ratan Sangle, Shri Santosh Chavan are performing Dharna in Azad Maidan, Mumbai. (Photo and Details: Shankar Ade)
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Shri B.K. Naik appointed Mumbai President

Shri B.K. Naik addressing the National Executive Committee Meeting of All India Banjara Seva Sangh held at Mumbai on March 22, 2009.

Dr. Prabhu Rathod addressing the National Executive Committee Meeting of All India Banjara Seva Sangh held at Mumbai on March 22, 2009. Mrs. Chanderkal Naik, Dr. M. Shankar Naik, Shri Makhram Pawar, Dr. T.C. Rathod also seen in the picture. (Photos by Shankar Ade from Pohradevi)

Shri Eashwar Naik from Andhra Pradesh addressing the National Executive Committee Meeting of All India Banjara Seva Sangh held at Mumbai on March 22, 2009. Mrs. Chanderkal Naik, Dr. M. Shankar Naik, Dr. T.C. Rathod also seen in the picture. (Photos by Shankar Ade from Pohradevi)

Mumbai, March 22, 2009 (Shankar Ade): National Executive Committee Meeting of All India Banjara Seva Sangh was held at Mumbai on March 22, 2009. Meeting was presided over by National President of AIBSS Dr. M. Shankar Naik. Shri Makhram Pawar, Shri B.K. Naik, Shri T.C. Rathod (Maharashtra State President), Shri K.G. Banjara (Gujarat), Shri Eshwar Naik (Andhra Pradesh), Shri Raju Naik, Mrs. Chanderkala Naik (Wife of Late Shri Ranjit Naik), Dr. Prabhu Rathod, Shri Shankar Pawar, Shri Amar Rathod, Shri Sunil Khanna (Haryana), Shri Sat Prakash Rathore  (President Delhi Unit) and Shri Jagtar Singh Multani (Punjab) attended this meeting.

Prominent Builder of Mumbai Shri Prabhu Rathod offered the land worth One Crore for the office of Mumbai Unit of AIBSS. Other builder of Mumbai Shri Shankar Pawar took responsibility to build office on this land provided by Shri Prabhu Rathod.

Retired IAS Officer Shri B.K. Naik appointed President for the Mumbai Region Unit of AIBSS. Recently he served as Collector of Beed, Maharashtra.

A resolution passed in the meeting is that every State President of AIBSS will recruit minimum 2000 members from Banjara Community. State Presidents who will not work accoding to this resolution,

Meeting also agreed on take charge of historical place in Delhi “Banjara Paudi”. It is decided that the pending payment for Banjara Paudi will be paid very soon.

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Respected Sir, 
I am Sumeet Chavan working as an ANIMATION DIRECTOR in Mumbai. I have plan to make 3D Animation movie Sant Shree SEVALAL MAHARAJ. I have Animation team and studio but I am searching for producer who can finance the movie. I was working with Mr. Ram Mohan Sir for 2D and 3D Animation Projects for past 10 years. I am also sending you a latest copy of my resume. If any interested so let me know. Thanks, Sir. 

Yours faithfully,
Sumeet Chavan 

OBJECTIVE: To work in an inspirational and creative team environment, where I can improve and enhance my animation abilities in a discipline that has always been my passion.            

ANIMATION  DIRECTOR:

SKILLS:                                                                                                                                           
Computer: Maya, Max, After Effects, Premiere, Photoshop, Illustrator, Flash.
TRADITION: Life Drawing, Caricatures, Character designing.

EXPERIENCE:

SKYWORK STUDIO PVT. LTD [ANAND] GUJRAT
ANIMATION  DIRECTOR & ART DIRECTOR
JULY 2008-MAR 2008 till date. 
Bunny Tales:      Pacific Gold Entertainment, CANADA
3rd & Bird:       Created by  Josh S  bbc.co.uk
Wonder Pets:      Nick JR  TVY NEW YORK
Indian_Chess:     2 episodes for SKY STUDIOS  home production
SENSUALIA:        4 episodes for SKY STUDIOS home production

Graphiti Multimedia Pvt. Ltd., Mahim, Mumbai
Animation Team Leader (Maya)
Oct 2007-2008 June
Projects handling:
•           Kulveera Film for Cartoon Network
•           Word Of Oo
•           Camlin Ad

UTV Software Communications Ltd., Andheri, Mumbai.
3-D Lead Senior Character Animator (Maya)
Jan 2007-Sep 2007
Projects handling:
•           Cosmic Quantum Ray - 4 episodes for Mike Young Production U.S.A
•           PENGUINS – 2 Episode

Prana Studios Pvt. Ltd., Bandra, Mumbai.
3-D Senior Character Animator (Maya)
July 2005-Dec 2007
Projects handled:
•           Tinker Bell – Movie for Disney Studio
•           Boz –  Movie Reel fx Creative Studio 

Crest Communication Ltd. , Worli, Mumbai.
3-D Senior Character Animator (Maya)
June 2003- June 2005
Projects handled:
•           Pet Alien - 8 Episodes for Mike Young Production U.S.A.
•           Bratz – 1 Episode for Mike Young Production U.S.A.
•           The Care Bears Movie-2 – Nalvana limited, Canada

2-D Senior Character Animator
Projects handled:
•           New Testament - 8 episodes for Rich Crest Animation Studio U.S.A.
•           Tenali Rama - 15 episodes for Crest Communication And  Sg broadcaster Media Works 12
•           Beethoven - for Rich Crest Animation Studio U.S.

UTV Toons , Andheri, Mumbai.
2-D Mid-Level Character Animator March 1999 to September 2002
Projects handled:
•           Meena - 1 episode for UNICEF
•           Toad Patrol - 13 episodes for FUNBAG
•           Bunny - 10 episodes for FUNBAG
•           Kellogs ad
•           Maggie ad
•           Air-India ad

Clean-up
•           For better or Worse - 30 episodes for FUNBAG
•           Me and Mitthu - 26 episodes for UTV home production
•           Street Kid - 1 episode for FUNBAG
•           Weird Monster - 12 episodes for FUNBAG
•           Draft Planet – 30 episodes for FUNBAG

In-between
•           Sahara - Sara for UNICEF (South Africa)
•           Bad Dog - 10 episodes for FUNBAG
•           Dr. Disaster - 110 episodes for FUNBAG                    

Independent projects handled: 

Purple Image, Dadar, Mumbai.        
Story board Animator  
October 2002 to December 2002

St. Luke’s Comm. (I) Pvt. Ltd., Worli, Mumbai.          
Storyboard Animator  
Storyboard for Ballgard

EDUCATION
Passed B.F.A ( Applied Art) Degree in 2002-2003 from Sir J.J. Institute of  Applied Art Mumbai.

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS
•           Best entry in Exhibition display in 2003.
•           Nominated for 54th CAG Awards for Cub designer category.

PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS
•           Best Performer at UTV in In-between Aug 2000
•           Best Performer at UTV in Clean-up dept. Aug 2001
•           Best Performer at UTV in Animation dept. Aug 2002     

PERSONAL:
•           Date of birth: 1st Jan, 1978
•           Marital status: Unmarried
•           Languages known: Hindi, Marathi, English
•           Other Interests: Playing Flute, Sketching, Music, Playing Guitar, Watching Movies.

CONTACT DETAILS:                                                                                 
Address: 2C/503, Acme Complex, Off Link Rd, Sunder Ngr, Goregaon (W), Mumbai-62.  
Mobile No: 098333-57738, 093776-98657
Email: sumeet_chavan2004@yahoo.com
     : sumeetchavan.777@gmail.com
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Maaro Baapu Ro Haro Haro Baag and other Banjara Songs by Narendra and Neeta Pawar 

New Banjara Songs Album “Banjara Ri Holi”

Deshmukh Video presents

“Banjara Ri Holi” Album

Producer: Dr. Deshmukh Pawar

Singers: Narendra Pawar and Neeta Pawar

Music: Deepesh Jain

Studio: Swarankan, Indore
Dresses: Bhojraj Pawar
Video Editor: Narendra Pawar
Patron: Kaluram Thekedar
Advisor: Kaniram Pawar
Address: Dongargaon, Burhanpur, Madhya Pradesh.
Phone: 07325-226650, Cell Phone:  99260-16330.
E-mail: npanwar_2008@yahoo.com
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Dr. Rahul Rathod
M. Pharm, Ph. D,  Member, Pharmacy Council of India
“Ashirwad”, Tilak Nagar, Pusad, Distt: Yavatmal, 445204, Maharashtra, India
Contact: 91-07233- 246212/ 246789
91-9890526501/09769785205      
E-mail: drrahulrathod@gmail.com
                                                                    
Pusad (Shankar Ade): Dr. Rahul Rathod is basically from Pusad, Distt. Yavatmal (Maharashtra). He is son of noted socialist Dr. M. D. Rathod, a known political figure from Pusad who is presently Chairman of a co-operative spinning mill named after Shri Babasaheb Naik, father of Ex CM of Maharashtra, Late Shri Sudhakarrao Naik.  Dr. Rahul Rathod, a recipient of Banjara Bhushan award 2006, graduated from Amravati University. After graduation he completed his masters in pharmacy from University of health sciences, Bangalore. After post graduation he joined as a lecturer in Amravati University. After getting experience in academics he got enrolled as Ph.D Research scholar in Hamdard University, New Delhi. He completed his Ph.D thereafter. He was awarded Senior Research Fellowship (CSIR, Ministry of HRD, New Delhi) for his research project on NDDS. During his Ph.D he received foreign travel grant by DST & CSIR, Ministry of HRD, New Delhi. He has presented five research papers at New Orleans (USA). Later on he went ahead to present his research paper at World congress, Nice, France .He received foreign travel grant from Ministry of science & technology, New Delhi to present his research work. To his credit he has published a book on Modern Patient counseling (Nirali Prakashan). He is a visiting faculty in Mumbai University and Pune University.

He has 16 publications to his credit in national and international journals and filed two patent applications in India. During his Ph.D he worked as a visiting lecturer in Hamdard University, New Delhi.

He worked as co-chairman, Co-ordination, Indian Pharmaceutical congress 2005, New Delhi. After working for four years in Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Pune, currently he is with Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, Mumbai. His areas of expertise include patent search and analysis, Infringement opinions, Patentability opinions and drafting of Patent Specifications. The job also involves close interaction with the Research & development (R&D) team to help devise non-infringing/patentable solutions.

Recently he has been appointed as Member, Pharmacy council of India, New Delhi, representing state of Maharashtra at New Delhi. He has responsibility of regulating the education of pharmacy in India. He is also an editor of Bimonthly non political newsletter related to community issues.
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Is there any Goaar Doctor living in USA?

Dear Om Kamal ji,
 
Ram Ram !!!
 
I am very thankfull to you for tieing the Banjaras (Goaars) of whole world in ONE family by taking so much efforts & contributing your valuable time for developing this website www.banjaratimes.com. 
 
Let me introduce myself & my family: I am Rakesh Singh Tomer, by profession a Doctor, holding M.B.B.S degree. My father and my brothers are currently blessed with textile business in Surat, Gujarat. My Father's name is Mr.Zandu Singh Tomar. We are TOORI Banjaras and basically from CHHICHHORA Gaon of Uttar Pradesh. There are lots of Goaars residing in Surat especially the Udhana area of Surat.
 
Actually I had a doubt if any Goaar is there in USA. If at all there is that Person might have made himself/herself  very aloof from our community. But after finding this website, my thoughts too a U turn. When I googled the word "Goaar in USA" , I could not find specific website for Goaars in USA but definitely found banjaratimes.com. I am sure this website will bring a revolution in our community. 
 
Recently I was in New Jersey and Kennesaw, GA for my United States license exam which is a pre-requisite for getting the Residency  Program (POST GRADUATION) in an University. I will be coming back to USA in July, 2009 for my final exam and joining JFK Hospital as a Research Asstt.
 
It will my pleasure to be in contact with you or meet you as in person. Moreover, I request you if you know any doctor in USA who belongs to our community then PLEASE let me know his/her contact details.
 
Once again thank you very much.
 
Yours truly,
Dr. Tomer Rakesh
E-mail: drtomerrakesh@yahoo.co.in
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Dr. Shriram Binjrawat of Ambajogai, Beed, Maharashtra crazy about Banjara handicraft

Beed, Maharashtra (Shankar Ade): Mr. B. K. Naik District Collector of Beed visited to HARAPPANI GORBANJARA MAHILA KALA VIKAS MANDAL with family members and appreciated activities of HARAPPANI GORBANJARA MAHILA KALA VIKAS MANDAL. Mr. Naik says that "By seeing these Banjara Articles I fall in love and this is my first time to see collection of traditional Banjara art and Handicrafts. I am thankful to Mr. Shriram who gave a opportunity to visit a NGO like HARAPPANI GORBANJARA MAHILA KALA VIKAS MANDAL. Really this NGO is working in right direction to preserve Banjara art.

Dr. Shriram Binjrawat a reacher who is working since 15 years about Banjara handicraft and Banjara history says that these arts are an ancient art since from Indus Vally Civilization. This art is coming from generation to generation from mother to daughter. But due to globalization, civilization and snatching of culture in 19th century there is change in living of society and all traditional living changed. This resulted in change of traditional costumes alongwith traditional handicraft. There are so many traditional arts and crafts of India, among these traditional handicrafts Banjara hand embroidary is one of them.

Now a days this Banjara hand embroidary is declared as languishing art. To preserve this cultural historical heritage of art some NGOs like HARAPPANI GORBANJARA MAHILA KALA VIKAS MANDAL are working.

This art having cultural heritage from Indus Vally Civilization. Excavation at Indus river and at Mohenjodaro found red colored embroidered cloth in silver plate, cotton thread, needles and red cloth found in two copper pots. Knife covered with red cloth (Barchir Kholi) found at Kalibangan, At Lothal seal found with punch mark of embroided cloth. Large terracotta pot of water covered with embroided cloth (Galno) found at Alamgirpur in excavation. Things found in excavation at various places are in use in Banjara community for traditional, ceremonial and practical now a days also. Banjara women uses only red color for embroidary and at ceremonial function they uses red cloths. Generally Banjara lady wears only red color costumes.

The refrences found in Rigveda, Yejurveda, Atharvaveda and ancient literature about this art. Some motifs of Indus Civilization are found in Banjara community and their handicraft today.

Mr. Shriram also told about present position of craft due to globalization, civilization and snatching of culture and language, there is change in traditional costumes alongwith traditonal handicraft. From 1980 onwards traditional handicraft articles used by community for traditional, ceremonial and for daily use are sold by some peoples in international market. Market value of these articles is very high. The price of 10” x 15” embroided piece of cloth was about $95 (Rs. 3800) Snatching of these traditional handicraft articles by some peoples from Banjara Tanda and all states of India.

One more factor responsible for destruction of handicraft is in the changing scenarios the rich craft art of dress embroidary and jewelry seems to be dissolving in the minds of new generation. Due to which this craft making lacking behind. Maharashtra having various traditional handicrafts. Banjara hand embroidary is one of them. Now a days this Banjara hand embroidary is declared as languishing art.

To preserve this art Govt. of India assisted financially during eightth plan to voluntary organization, apex co operative societies for survey, identification and revival of languishing craft. Under this scheme some languishing crafts are identified. Banjara art is one of them. Funds are released for the revival of languishing Banjara embroidary.

All peoples who visited this NGO were pleased. 
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Mumbai (Shankar Ade): Biodata of Goaar Child artist Prashant Namdeo Pawar

Height: 5'3"
 
Date Of Birth: 22nd December, 1994
 
Work : Main Role in 5 Marathi Movies:
            1) Daio Janile Koni (Director Jayprakash)
            2) Sodhu Kothe Mi Sang Kinara (Producers Mrs. Shanta Namdeo Pawar and Vandna)
            3) Odha Lagli Sasarchi
            4) Ashi Pakhre Yeti (Released in Mumbai)
            5) Watsaru (Shanta N. Pawar and Vandana)
Hindi Films:
            1) A New Love Estory. (T-series Production, Actor: Himesh)
            2) Do Ane Ki Dhup Char Ane Ki Barish (Dipti Naval Production)
            3) Hirone Ke Dilke Pannose (Madhur Bhandarkar production Released on Soni TV 5/03/08)
Serial: 1) Pathshala Ek Gyan Mandir (Vichar TV new)
Documentry film:
             1) Hope (Dr. Deck U.S.A, Rahul Mahajan Production)
Advertisement: 1) Elf

Father: His father's name is Namdeo Umaji Pawar (Amgoat). He is B.E (Mech.) and born on 12/03/1968 at Warula Tanda,  Taluka Manjlegaon, Distt. Beed. Now he is  working as Inspector of Legal Metrology in Mumbai. He is living at 404 /102, Samrat Ashok Gorai-2, Borivali (West), Mumbai-91, Maharashtra State. Mr. Namdeo Umaji Pawar's brother is Dr. Prakash Umaji Pawar M.B.B.S.

Mother: His mother Mrs. Shanta Namdeo Pawar is first Banjara Lady in Maharashtra as film producer. She produced (1)Sodu Kothe Me Sang Kinara,  (2) Vatsaru.

Contact No.: 98924 25628, 98923 55065 (Mumbai) 

E-mail: prashantpawar2219@yahoo.com
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Hingoli, Maharashtra, March 14, 2009 (Shankar Ade): Bahujan Samaj Party declared Dr. B.D. Chauhan candidate for Parliamentary Constituency Hingoli. Dr. B. D. Chauhan is prominent leader of Banjaras of the Hingoli area. He is facing congress candidate Mrs. Surya Kanta Patil, Rural Development Minister of India. Dr. B. D. Chauhan also fought in 2004 elections and he secured 70,000 votes.

Late Shri Uttam Rao Rathod, Brother-in-Law of Shri Sudhakar Naik won this seat in 1985 on the Congress ticket.
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Om Kamal Ji,
Jai Sewalal!

This is Meghawath Ramesh Rathod from Hyderabad. Recently I visited few villages in Mahabubabad Mandal of Warangal district of Andhra Pradesh. There I met and discuss with Goaars regarding their basic problems and other issues.
Just I am writing my observations here as follows:

1. Most of the Goaars there, don’t know about Shri Guru Sewalal Ji Maharaj. Very few people know about Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj. There is no temple of Sewabhaya and Yadi Jagdamba but churches are there in few villages.
2. Few Goaars pray for Christ, few of them pray for muslim gods. Their names also like Saida, Malsur, Hussain.
3. Mostly they depend on agriculture.
4. Most of Goaars take Non-Vegetarian food in all days of the week.
5. Most of them don’t know about Gotras and Paadas,
6. Every day they take liquor including 4 month old child.
7. Most of them marry within the relations only.
8. Educated and non educated Lambadis speak in local language Telugu only except few old people.
9. They mix 70% Telugu in "Goaar Boli". I will send separate article on that issue.
10. Old women wear Banjara traditional dress.
11. Educationally they are good.
12. Politically they are ok.
13. No unity among them.
14. Their marriage is admixed of Telugu tradition and Lambadi tradition.
My Conclusion:
Lack of awareness about Goaar culture and traditions, after few years Goaar Boli and traditions  will vanish completely in that region. Somebody have to take the responsibility and let them wake up.
With regards,
Your Goaar Bhai,
Meghawat Ramesh Rathod
Scientist (DRDO),
Hyderabad, A.P.
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Banjaras of Mumbai danced on the Goaar Boli Songs by Lakhbir Lakha and Gurinder Naaz

Goaar Singer “Jodi No. 1” Lakhbir Lakha and Gurinder Naaz from Phagwara, Punjab performed in All India Banjara Festival at Dombivali, Mumbai on March 1, 2009 organized by Sant Sevalal Army, Mumbai. In the picture Chief Guest Commisioner Kalyan Mahanagar Palika, Shri Govind Rathod, Smt. Archana Govind Rathod, Organizers Shri Radheshyam Ade and Shri Morsingh Rathod, Smt. Shalini Radhe Shyam Ade, Mrs. Morsingh Rathod and Shri Shankar Ade, Editor, Washim Wartahar Weekly are honouring to Goaar Singers and Coca Cola Jodi No. 1 Title winner Shri Lakhbir Lakha and Miss Gurinder Naaz. 

“Banjara Dhamaka” Group of Goaar Actress and Dancer Miss Reenaji Banjara performed in All India Banjara Festival at Sant Savlaram Stadium, Near Pendharkar College, Dombivali (East), Mumbai on the evening of February 28, 2009 organized by Sevalal Army, Mumbai. In the picture Chief Guest Commisioner Kalyan Mahanagar Palika, Shri Govind Rathod, Smt. Archana Govind Rathod, Organizers Shri Radheshyam Ade and Shri Morsingh Rathod, Smt. Shalini Radhe Shyam Ade, Mrs. Morsingh Rathod and others are honouring to Goaar Actress and Dancer Miss Reenaji Banjara. (Photo by Shankar Ade, Ph. 94234-51495)

Goaar Singer “Jodi No. 1” Lakhbir Lakha and Gurinder Naaz from Phagwara, Punjab performed in All India Banjara Festival at Dombivali, Mumbai on March 1, 2009 organized by Sant Sevalal Army, Mumbai. Organizers and Guests are dancing on the Goaar Boli Songs of Lakhbir Lakha and Gurinder Naaz.

Goaar Singer “Jodi No. 1” Lakhbir Lakha and Gurinder Naaz from Phagwara, Punjab performed in All India Banjara Festival at Dombivali, Mumbai on March 1, 2009 organized by Sant Sevalal Army, Mumbai. Organizers and Guests are dancing on the Goaar Boli Songs of Lakhbir Lakha and Gurinder Naaz.

In the picture Chief Guest Commisioner Kalyan Mahanagar Palika, Shri Govind Rathod, Smt. Archana Govind Rathod, Organizers Shri Radheshyam Ade and Shri Morsingh Rathod, Smt. Shalini Radhe Shyam Ade, Mrs. Morsingh Rathod and Shri Shankar Ade, Editor, Washim Wartahar Weekly are honouring to Goaar Singers and Coca Cola Jodi No. 1 Title winner Shri Lakhbir Lakha and Miss Gurinder Naaz. 

In the picture Chief Guest Commisioner Kalyan Mahanagar Palika, Shri Govind Rathod, Smt. Archana Govind Rathod, Organizers Shri Radheshyam Ade and Shri Morsingh Rathod, Smt. Shalini Radhe Shyam Ade, Mrs. Morsingh Rathod, Banjara Actress and Dancer Miss Reenaji Banjara and Shri Shankar Ade, Editor, Washim Wartahar Weekly are honouring to Goaar Veteran Music Director from Ludhiana, Punjab Shri Sant Ram Kheeva Dharamsot.

On the first day of All India Banjara Festival, Chief Guest Shri Manohar Naik, Minister of Food and Drug Department, Maharashtra addressed the gathering of Banjaras. Shri Govind Rathod, Commissioner, Kalyan Mahanagar Palika, Shri Shankar Pawar, Shri Vasant Dakhare are also seen in the picture. (Photo by Shankar Ade)

Shri Govind Rathod, Commissioner, Kalyan Mahanagar Palika addressing at First Day of All India Banjara Festival. Shri Arjun Rathod, Shri Manoharrao Naik, Minister of Food and Drug Department, Maharashtra, Shri Vasant Dakhare are also seen on the Dias. (Photo by Shankar Ade) 

Shri Radhe Shyam Ade, Chief Organizer of All India Banjara Festival explaining the reasons behind the organizing of All India Banjara Fesival at Mumbai. Shri Arjun Rathod, Trustee of Sant Sevalal Charitable Trust, Sevagadh, Shri Digambar Rathod, National President, Banjara Karamchari Sangh also seen in the picture. (Photo by Shankar Ade)

Organizers Shri Radheshyam Ade and Shri Morsingh Rathod presenting Flowers to Chief Guest Shri Manohar Naik, Minister of Food and Drug Department of Maharashtra. Shri Vasant Dakhare, Shri Shankar Pawar, Shri Arjun Rathod, Shri Digambar Rathod also seen in the picture. (Photo by Shankar Ade)

Shri Shankar Pawar, Shri Vasant Dakhare, Shri Manohar Naik, Minister for Food and Drug Department of Maharashtra Government, Shri Digambar Rathod, Shri Arjun Rathod, Shri Radhe Shyam Ade, Chief Organizer of All India Banjara Festival are seen on the dias at first day of All India Banjara Festival.

Mumbai, March 2, 2009 (Shankar Ade): It was a historic moment when Banjaras of Mumbai start dancing on the Goaar Boli Songs performed by Goaar-Singer “Jodi No. 1” Lakhbir Lakha and Gurinder Naaz from Phagwara, Punjab at the occasion of All India Banjara Festival at Sant Savlaram Stadium, Near Pendharkar College, Dombivali (East), Mumbai on March 1, 2009 organized by Sevalal Army, Mumbai.

Chief Guest Commisioner of Mahanagar Palika Kalyan, Shri Govind Rathod said that with organizing All India Banjara Festival, Sant Sevalal Army is going in right direction to unite the Goaars of All India. Shri Govind Rathod also said being a president of Maharashtra Banjara Karamchari Sangh, we are committed to work for the problems of Banjaras. He also appealed to Shri Manohar Naik, Minister of Maharashtra, to provide a place for Banjara Bhawan in Mumbai for the activities of Banjaras living in Mumbai. Shri Govind Rathod also said that Banjaras must provide Computer Education to their children.

Organizer of All India Banjara Festival, Shri Radhe Shyam Ade said that in modern days, the Banjara Community has lost faith in itself, forgotten its culture, social values, religion, its Unity, its status. So, to realize its existence and to reunite all Banjaras of the world, we organized All India Banjara Festival. He also said that Banjaras from all over India came to Mumbai for labor but they are not getting equal rights here. He said Sant Sevalal Army is formed for the rights of poor Banjaras living in Mumbai. He also said that Banjaras are facing trouble to get Ration Cards and their names in Voting List. He said Sant Sevalal Army will fight for those discriminated Banjaras of Mumbai. Organizer of All India Banjara Festival, Shri Radhe Shyam Ade said that educated Banjaras when got their job and well settled in their life then they forgot their Mother-Tongue “Goaar-Boli” and start thinking about change their cast name from “Banjara” to “Rajput”. He said that Sant Sevalal Army will fight for saving the thousands year old Banjara Culture.

On the first day of All India Banjara Festival, Chief Guest Shri Manohar Naik, Minister of Food and Drug Department said about the need of re-write the Holi Songs of Banjaras. Writers should cut the vulgar words from Holi Songs of Banjaras and introduce the values of education, social development and safety of environment. Chief Guest Shri Manohar Naik, Minister of Food and Drug Department, Maharashtra said that don’t forgot your Mother-Language “Goaar Boli”. He said that Goaar Boli is our identity in the world. He said only through the Goaar Boli, Banjaras of the whole world can unite. He appealed to Banjaras, must provide education to your children and gets organize in Banjara Society.

All India Banjara Festival arranged Banjara Bhajan competition and Banjara Lengi Spardha (Holi songs competition). Kanta Bai Rathod of Village Chelka, District Akola won the Holi Songs Competition in Ladies Group and got 15,000 Rupees and a Trophy. Sevalal Maharaj Sangh of Village Vithala, District Yavatmal won Holi Songs Competition in Men’s Group, and got 15,000 Rupees and a Trophy. Banjara Bhajan Competition won by Premsingh Maharaj of Village God Gavan, District Washim. He also got 15,000 Rupees and a Trophy.

Banjara Dhamaka Cultural Group led by Banjara Actress and Dancer Miss Reenaji Banjara performed on the eve of February 28, 2009. This group consists of dancers and Goaar Boli Singers.

Shri Vasant Dakhare, Vice President of Council, Shri Shankar Pawar, Trustee of Sant Sevalal Charitable Trust, Sevagadh, Shri Arjun Rathod, Trustee of Sant Sevalal Charitable Trust, Sevagadh, Shri Digambar Rathod, National President of Banjara Karamchari Sangh, Prof. Motiraj Rathod, Veteran Music Director Shri Sant Ram Kheeva (Dharamsot), Mrs. Archana Govind Rathod, Mr. and Mrs. Morsingh Rathod and Mrs. Shalini Radhe Shyam Ade also attended the All India Banjara Festival.
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Delegation of Rashtriya Sevalal Banjara Mahasangh met with President of India

A delegation of Rashtriya Sevalal Banjara Mahasangh giving memorandum to President of India Smt. Pratibha Patil. Prof. Madhukar Pawar President of Rashtriya Sevalal Banjara Mahasangh explaining about the demands of Banjaras. 

Members of Rashtriya Sevalal Banjara Mahasangh with President of India Smt. Pratibha Patil at Rashtarpati Bhawan, New Delhi.
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Successful Banjara Seminar held at Aurangabad

Principal Raja Ram Rathod,  Prof. Motiraj Rathod, Shri Lal Singh Rajput (Solapur), Shri Jagarao Chauhan (Ex M.L.A.), Shri Totaram Jadhav at Aurangabad Banjara Seminar

Principal Raja Ram Rathod,  Prof. Motiraj Rathod, Shri Lal Singh Rajput (Solapur), Shri Jagarao Chauhan (Ex M.L.A.), Shri Totaram Jadhav, Shri Chuni Lal  Jadhav and others with the statue of Late Shri Baliram Patil.

Welcome of Banjara Writer and DNT leader Prof. Motiraj Rathod by Banjara Students.

Aurangabad, February 26, 2009 (Shankar Ade): Vasantrao Naik Shikshan Pracharak Mandal, Aurangabad Organized a Seminar on the subject of “Banjara Samaj: Kal, Aaj aur Kal” at Balirao Patil Vidyalaya, Aurangabad on 22nd February. Principal Raja Ram Rathod was the presided over this seminar. Prof. Motiraj Rathod, Prof. Rukmini Pawar, Shri Lal Singh Rajput (Solapur), Shri Jagarao Chauhan (Ex M.L.A.), Shri Totaram Jadhav, Shri Chuni Lal  Jadhav were among the main speakers at this seminar. Prof. Rukmini Pawar said that the Banjara Culture is the soul of Indian Culture. She said that if we wanna alive our Banjara culture then we don't forget our Goaar Language. Prof. Rukmini Pawar said if Gor Language is alive then our Banjara Culture will survive. Principal Raja Ram Rathod explained about the 400 years of Banjara History.  Speakers also discussed the situation of reservation to Banjaras in Maharashtra.  
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A detailed Report by Harilal Naik....

The biggest temple constructed by Sant Shri Sevalal Maharaj Charitable Trust.

The Prana Pratishta Pooja had been done by 15 well known and learned Brahmins for 5 days from 8th February, 2009 to 12th February, 2009.

Arjun Rathod, Kishan Singh, Harilal Naik, D. Thagaur Naik, Lalya Naik, Aswartha Naik, Thippaiya Naik, Govind Rathod and Lakshaman Naik subsequently joined in pooja.

Around 500 men were in red pagadi and white dothi, they had observed 41 days fasting.

One Devotee of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj. He is coming every year for the Darshan of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj.

Night of February 14, 2009: Smt. Chandrakala Ranjeet Naik President S.S.S.M. Charitable Trust Sevagadh and others.

About one hundred thousand devotees (one lakh) visited Sevagadh and took darshan of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj.

Food and beverages were given free to all devotees. The food was good and serving of food was very disciplined and systematic.

Sevagadh, February 17, 2009 (Harilal Naik): The biggest temple constructed by Sant Shri Sevalal Maharaj Charitable Trust with the help of the big hearted Banjara and Non Banjara donors from India and abroad. The temple is constructed beautifully and cost of temple is about Rs.1.5 Crores. The Prana Pratishta Pooja had been done by 15 well known and learned Brahmins for 5 days from 8th February, 2009 to 12th February, 2009. Daily Pooja and Arthi will be done for another 41 days by a Brahmin and Gopal of Sevagadh poojari.

On the first day of pooja, a couple was tied Kankanam which indicated that the couple could not leave the temple premises for the next 5 days on where the pooja was to be carried out and were to observe all religious rituals like being barefoot, sleeping on floor, eating food only once in a day and other rituals. One of the trustees Mr. Arjun Rathod and Mrs. Yamu Arjun Rathod from Mumbai accepted to tie the Kankanum and observe all the rituals rigorously and other trustees along with their wives S/s Kishan Singh, Harilal Naik, D. Thagaur Naik, Lalya Naik, Aswartha Naik, Thippaiya Naik, Govind Rathod and Lakshaman Naik also subsequently joined them in pooja.

The temple was inaugurated by Shri Redya Naik Dharamsoth, Minister for Tribal Welfare, A.P. and Shri. N. Raghuveera Reddy, Minister for Agriculture, A.P. in the presence of Shri Ram Rao Maharaj (Jagat Guru of Banjaras) of Pohradevi, Maharashtra, Mr. Haribhau Rathod M.P. Maharashtra, Dr. Shankar Naik Ex. Minister of Karnataka and President A.I.B.S.S, Mr. Anil Kumar I.A.S., D.M. and Collector, Ananthapur, A.P. and Smt. Chandrakala Ranjeet Naik President S.S.S.M. Charitable Trust Sevagadh.

Sant Shri Ram Rao Maharaj is a seventh generation of Sevalal Maharaj, who is a Tapasvi, Balbrahmachari and has not taken cooked food since his birth, only eats fruits and milk. He is extremely learned and spiritual Jagat Guru of Banjara Community. Sant Shri Ram Rao Maharaj visited Sevagad for the first time. The trust is very much thankful to Shri Haribhau Rathod M.P. and Shri Shankar Pawar of Maharashtra for accompanying Sant Ram Rao Maharaj from Pohragadh, Maharashtra. Sant Shri Ram Rao Maharaj was very happy and stayed one day at Sevagadh. On this auspicious occasion Shri Ram Rao Maharaj Jagat Guru of Banjara did the pooja and mahabhog. And while blessing the devotees of Sevalal , he declared that Sevagadh is the birth place of Sevalal Ji Maharaj and appreciated the Statue of Sevalal Maharaj and work done by the S.S.S.M. Charitable Trust Sevagadh. He also assured that he would visit the temple often.

About one hundred thousand devotees (one lakh) visited Sevagadh and took darshan of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj. Food and beverages were given free to all devotees. The food was sponsored by Mr. Ravindra Naik, Mr. P.C. Krishna Naik and their families and helped by S/shri Chandrashekar Naik, Ashok Naik, Duba Naik, Bhaskar Reddy, Vishal Naik and Moti Naik. The food was good, serving of food was very disciplined and systematic. The trust and devotees appreciated the social service rendered by them (Anna Dan).

About 53 big donors who donated above 50,000/- Rs. have been honored by the trust. The foreign devotees Dr. Suvarna Mohan Rathod, Amrapali Mohan, Mr. Chandrajit Naik of U.S.A & other devotees from U.K and gulf also took darshan of Sevalal Maharaj and appreciated the arrangements made available.

Around 500 men were in red pagadi and white dothi, they had observed 41 days fasting, no non-vegetarian food, preparing self food, no alcohol, no relation with women, move barefoot and teach other fellow banjaras in villages not to have any vice and preaching’s  Sevalal Maharaj. Similarly unmarried girls also did prayers for Sevalal so that they could get good boys to marry. It is proved for last 7 years that so for about 300 girls got married after the spiritual pooja of Sant Sevalal Maharaj.

The big contributions made by S/s Mohan Rathod, U.S.A,  Arjun Rathod, Mumbai, Shankar Pawar, Mumbai, Haribhau Rahtod, Member of Parliament Yavatmal, Maharashtra, Jagannath Rao,  Hyderabad,  Dr. D.T.Naik Hyderabad, Dr. Shankar Naik, Bangalore, Sama Naik of Bangalore and Rama Naik Additional Commissioner Commercial Tax of Bangalore and the Organizing Committee S/s Kishan Singh General Secretary of Trust, Keshva Naik, Lalya Naik, Mohan Kishan Singh, D.Tagur Naik, Lakshman Naik, Aswartha Naik, Arjun Rathod, Raju Naik, Govind Rathod , Tippaiah Naik and Harilal Naik were specially thanked by the Trust. The Trust was very much thankful for cleaning the temple, premises of Sevagad and Bhog stage to Smt. Chandrakala Naik, Smt. Yamu Arjun Rathod, Smt. Sama Kishan Singh, Smt. Anita Harilal Naik, Mr. and Mrs. Somla Naik, Mr. Raju Naik and Mr. Harilal naik

Smt. Sushila R.L. Naik of Bangalore one of the Founder Trustees of S.S.S.M. Charitable Trust had visited Sevagad although she is seriously ill, hospitalized and taking treatment for last two years, we  pray to Sevalal for her speedy recovery.     

The Sant Shri Sevalal Maharaj Charitable Trust requested to all Banjaras and Non-Banjaras to contribute donation generously as still lot of work pending at Sevagadh such as education, construction and social services to poor Banjaras. Andhra Pradesh Govt. runs tribal school at Sevagadh up to 10th class where in about 450 boys studying. The school was awarded best school in district of Ananthapur as it got 99% result in 10th class and has been upgraded up to Junior College now. 

With regards,  
Harilal Naik,
Founder Trustee,
Sant Shri Sevalal Maharaj Charitable Trust,
Sevagadh.                                                                                             
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Photos by Shankar Ade, Editor, Wartahar 

Devotees in front of Pohradevi Temple on February 15, 2009 celebrating 270th Jayanti of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj.

Girls performing Pooja of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj at Pohradevi on February 15, 2009.

Good arrangements for the service of food to devotees of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj on 270th Jayanti.

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SRI GURU SEVALAL JI MAHARAJ's 270th JAYANTI CELEBRATED AT HOSPET (TQ) BELLARY (DISTT.), KARNATAKA.

Dated: 15.02.2009, Sunday, 10.00 at Railway Community Hall, Ananthshayan Gudi Road, HOSPET, BELLARY (DISTT), KARNATAKA.

We celebrated Sri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj's 270th Jayanti.

The function was inaugurated by Mr. M. Govinda Naik, Professor, and he gave a speech on Sri Sevalal Maharaj’s 270th Jayanti. The following Goaar Banjara chief guests of Hospet taluk were present on 270th jayanti.

Main Speakers:
Mr. M. Govinda Naik, Professor,
Mr. Subhas Kati, HOD.
Mr. Viresh Naik, ASI.
Mr. B.D. Rajput, Head Constable.
Mr. K.D. Naik, Officer.
Mr. Bhojya Naik, Manager.
Mr. Chalapati Naik, M.C.M. 
Mr. Kamal Naik, Manager.
Miss Sarswati Bai, advocate.
Mr. Ramaji Naik, Social worker.
Mr. Bheema Naik, Senior Technician.

Anchor: Mr. M. Nagaraj Naik

The jayanti was started with prayer of SRI GURU SEVALAL JI MAHARAJ and then followed by welcome speech by Mr. Shankar I. Naik. He wished to all Goaar Banjara dignitries for attending this jayanti. 

Mr. M. Govinda Naik, Professor, has told to all Banjara people about SRI SEVALAL MAHARAJ JI’s life history. Mr. Gopi Naik, High School Teacher, has given his speech on the Banjara Naukarara Samuha Kuta's objectives and aims. He also explain the teachings of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj.

Mr. B.D. Rajput, Head Constable explain the meaning of LAMBANI, THANDA, GOAARMATI that how it comes. Miss Sarswati Bai, Advocate, given his speech on 270th Sri Sevalal jayanti with sweet words that she congratulate to Mr. Laxman that he was did good job.

Mr. Laxman L.D, President, Banjara Naukarara Samuha Kuta has given his speech on this 270th jayanti and told that only team can do any thing in the world and our Samuha team had did this job and it is example for people in Hospet area that next year they can celebrate on large scale in all thandas.

Miss Vijaya Bai, F.D.A, Bangalore, had given her opinion about 270th jayanti that we must celebrate in all thanda, taluk, district and state every year and she told that she likes heartly this Banjara Naukarara Samuha Kuta and doing good job towards developments in the backwards area as well as country.

Finally function closed by Mr. M.C. Gudimani. He congratulated to all present guests on 270th jayanti with his sweet words.
 
DATE: 17.02.2009         
PLACE: Hospet           Report Prepared By: Shankar I. Naik, Secretary                
--------JAI GOAAR EKTA-------
--------JAI SRI GURU SEVALAL JI MAHARAJ--------
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270th Jayanti of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj celebrated in San Jose, California on Feb. 15

Goaars of San Jose are performing Goaar Ardas before distributing Kadah-Prasad on February 15, 2009.

Om Parkash Kamal presenting the photo of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj to Mr. and Mrs. Des Raj Dharamsot on the occasion of 270th Jayanti of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj.

Om Parkash Kamal presenting the photo of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj to Mr. and Mrs. Chanan Ram Dharamsot on the occasion of 270th Jayanti of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj.

San Jose, California, February 15, 2009: 270th Jayanti of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj celebrated in San Jose, California by Goaars living in Bay Area. Firstly, after Goaar Ardas Kadah-Prasad distributed to the devotees in the name of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj.

Shri Om Parkash Kamal, Editor, BanjaraTimes.com explained the holy life and teachings of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj.

At this occasion photos of Shri Guru Sevalal Ji Maharaj presented to the Goaar families living in San Jose, California.

Shri Chanan Ram Dharamsot, Shri Des Raj Dharamsot, Shri Mandeep Singh Dharamsot also expressed their views.

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Sevagad: Shri Guru Sevalal Temple inaugurated by Shri Redya Naik Dharamsoth on February 14, 2009

ANANTAPUR, February 14, 2009 (Staff Reporter): A temple constructed for Sant Sevalal, the founder and first preacher of ‘Banjara’ cult, was inaugurated at Sevagarh near Gooty in the district by ministers D.S. Redya Naik and N. Raghuveera Reddy on Saturday.

The temple was constructed with a cost of about Rs. 1.25 crore.

Speaking at a meeting later Minister for Tribal Welfare Mr. Redya Naik Dharamsoth suggested the Banjaras to shun their primitive practices and superstitions to develop the community. (With thanks from "The Hindu") 

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Community Representatives!

NOTE: BANJARA TIMES WANTS COMMUNITY REPRESENTATIVES FROM ALL CITIES AND TANDAS OF INDIA, WHO CAN SEND US NEWS REPORTS OF GOAAR COMMUNITY OF THEIR AREA. THIS IS A SOCIAL SERVICE PROGRAM. WE ARE UNABLE TO PAY ANY MONEY FOR THIS SERVICE. SEND YOUR RESUME AT OUR E-MAIL: OMKAMAL@SBCGLOBAL.NET  
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