Aaarzu Magazine - 2019 Fall Issue

AAARZU magazine Fall 2019

GURPAL DHALIWAL Investing in Knowledge DEBUNKING VEGANISM Myths and Facts of a Plant-Based Diet

10 FALL FASHION TRENDS Everyone Needs to Know

THE UNSEEN CEILING

Women and Immigrants in the Workforce

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PUBLISHER'S NOTE I love this time of year – when we had many festivals of the season.

From Thanksgiving to Halloween, from Navratri to Diwali, it’s a time to celebrate our fused Eastern and Western cultures. In this vein, I am grateful to each of you for keeping Aaarzu Magazine in your thoughts and on your coffee tables, and wish you the best of this holiday season & Happy New Year 2020.

KANWALJEET SINGH (LUCKY) RANDHAWA

Founder & Publisher

ON THE COVER Photography: A Master Media Producer: Lucky Randhawa Featuring: Gurpal Dhaliwal See page 18 for sto26

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Aaarzu Magazine is published quarterly.

ISSN 2561-9926 (Print) ISSN 2561-9934 (Online)

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AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

IN THIS ISSUE FEATURES

8 26 30

Culture Wars

38

Urban Changemaker: Roshni Patel

Cover Story: Investing in Education A Candid Conversation: Kamal Dhillon, Braveheart

FASHION & BEAUTY

14 16 17 20 24 25 74

10 Fall Fashion Trends Celebrity Beauty Tip: Madhuri Dixit Get The Look Makeup Must Haves Body Beautiful Fabulous Fashion Finds Gentleman’s Corner

LIFESTYLE

34 36 40 43 45 48 50 70 72

Fat-Burning HIIT Workout Aging (and living) Gracefully Modern Guide to Interethnic Dating Horrible First Dates Dear Behenji The Unseen Ceiling When Others Take Your Glory Real Talk: You Hypocrite Horoscope

FOOD

58 60 61 62 66 67 68

WestCoast Culture Another Diet?

Restaurant Hot Spots Recipes Debunking Veganism: Myths & Facts Thinking of following a Plant-Based Diet?

3 Wines to Celebrate Fall

HOME

48 52 54

India In Us Set The Mood Fighting the Good Fight

AUTO

78

Unexpected Breakdown

Family Law & Civil Litigation

Chandan K. Sabharwal

Barrister & Solicitor Founder, Sabharwal Law Group Kanchan K. Dhahan Barrister & Solicitor

Sukhjit (Sue) K. Basi Barrister & Solicitor

dedicated to providing specialized legal solutions around the clock

604.638.6998

sabharwallaw.ca UNIT 306 - 6678 152 ST. SURREY, BC

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EDITOR'S NOTE The wonder of nature always gets me during holiday season as in the fall the leaves play a symphony of colour. The flavour of delicious homemade Diwali snacks and enjoying bicultural celebrations has always made me feel lucky to be able to have double the fun. But in today’s increasingly hostile political climate, I can’t help but feel a bit of a culture war where our values are questioned or challenged by, well, everyone. Whether it’s blackface, or the music we listen to, the clothes we wear, our ideals are just that – ours, and it’s something we must own up to whether it’s publicly accepted or not, or be open to consider new perspectives.

In this issue, we explore the Culture War [p.8] through beauty [p.23], relationships [p.40], parenting [p.46], work [p.48], festival celebrations [p.54], food [p.56], real-talk [p.70] and conversations with braveheart Kamal Dhillon [p. 30] and urban changemaker Roshni Patel [p.38].

JUNITA THAKORLAL

Editor

This season, I hope you will be able to find the joy in celebrating both your Indian and Canadian cultures!

THE TEAM

LIKE SHARE SUBSCRIBE

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MINU GUPTA

Minu is an artist and experienced graphic designer in print, web, social media and ux-ui designer. She is fascinated by nature's beauty and in her free time can be found hiking, sketching and painting.

ASAD JAMIL

Asad is the lead photographer for the fast-emerging AJ Studios. He specializes in Western, Middle Eastern and South Asian weddings, and has a keen sense of natural lighting

FABULOUS FASHION FINDS Shop local to stock your closet with trending fashions of the season.

INDERJIT SINGH MANN

Inderjit runs the videography and photography powerhouse company, A Master Media, with his brother Ramanjit.

Together, they capture powerful memories.

40

48

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Ben Gill Deepa Pillay Deepak Jayakar Gursh Nijjar Jasmin Garcha

Madhvika Singh Manpreet Dhillon Preet Bains Ritika B. Sonya Braich

PHOTOGRAPHY

Blackbeard Photos Brandy MacQueen Photography Diamond’s Edge Photography Mindy Kalsi Bansal 6

MODERN GUIDE TO INTERETHNIC DATING Having a tough time crossing the race border? We got you!

AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

THE UNSEEN CEILING

Challenges women and immigrants face while aiming to attain success.

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a letter from

R THE EDITO

s,

s bi folk song itional Punja who has d a tr f o d n u soul and so ian pop stars w at er issue the few Ind brought the e o a ro n h Our summ o w is n e o ic H cond year in R&B. se d bhangra e n l a a th b p r o lo fo h g s ip ed uck fh gniz ith the Can sion twist o e most reco ed Diwali w is unique fu st h o Jazzy B is th h h it o w ls a ry e centu exact owership. H into the 21st sicians who onal fan-foll u ti a m i er b en ja g n iu lt P , a mu include sex lly, modern na. ore specifica usic videos which often m Rogers Are d n a y, tl n m pped from e radar rece r songs and who was dro urrey een under th th Asians through thei la b a s w a h se o c o si u M M us S young Sou ch as Sidhu t at a previo en d ci in influence on d gangs…musicians su ce li o lbum cover up over a p violence, an fire for his a Festival lineer d n n o u si u n F ee b ey has ers are the Surr r. Zeus who . These sing D n u d g n a a , s rt ic ce mim con The public and gesture r own right. where his h ei th y b rs a st tches their global super usic and wa m r ei th s y u ost b s which alm music video res always featu flashy Cover Summer 2019 Dear reader

stirred up cover photo

oversy. some contr

Proposed Cover Summer 2019

8

AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

CULTURE cars, branded clothing, and scantily clad women. There is public outcry at the lack of moral decency of these singers, yet they are steadily climbing the charts of popularity as fans can’t deny the catchy beats.

Dr. Zeus

Is it possible that these singers can have a stage persona which is separate from their own lives? Famous hard rock entertainer Alice Cooper was born Vincent Damon Furnier and chose his stage persona to fit a demand in the market which dubbed him the Godfather of Shock Rock. Many people would judge his goth sense of fashion, long hair and heavy eyeliner saying that he is a metal-head and probably a heavy drug user. However, it’s all an act for his audience. In actuality, he is a born-again Christian which means he is baptized and believes that he has a personal relationship with Jesus Christ…and he only sports eyeliner on stage.

WARS Likewise, Jazzy B claims to have gone back to his roots of Sikhism and reads scripture from the Guru Granth Sahib daily. On the cover, he sports a medallion with a khanda on it for his own spiritual purpose. Is it not possible that despite the negative connotations of him being surrounded by women, money, power, drugs and alcohol, that he can, in fact, still be spiritual?

The original cover of Aaarzu Magazine included three young women who chose to be part of the Jazzy B shoot. They wanted to meet him, they wanted to be on the cover, and they were not forced or coerced into posing with Jazzy B to portray him for what he is – powerful.

Granted, despite the hard work the entire team put into the photoshoot, seeing the final photograph sparked a negative emotion in me – seeing these girls look weak and insignificant bothered me.

Seeing Jazzy B portrayed as a chauvinist on my cover bothered me.

I must also add that during the shoot, Jazzy B was super chill and easy to work with. He was respectful, kind, and funny. He was also a tad shy when the girls came on set which was rather interesting to witness from a global superstar.

On the flip side, not all artists have stage personas. Many get caught in the wave as money and power buys booze, drugs, women, and everything else they had ever dreamed of. And if they can’t control their popularity and ego, they may drown in it. But why is it expected that South Asian artists adhere to the rules of religion and culture? Or is it just that the values we have, we want to be embodied in our beloved artists?

Publishing the photo of the girls with Jazzy B on our cover would have gone against the vision of Aaarzu Magazine which we work hard to uphold, to create a voice for women in this community to stand up, to be inspired, and to chase their own dreams. I am grateful to all of those who stood up for what they believed in and cared enough to share their thoughts about this photo. I’m grateful to the religious activists who shared their insight on how the photo crosses several boundaries of Sikhism.

And I’m grateful to the three women (and one mom) who gave their time to a shoot that never came to fruition.

So, are you happy with the moral compass of your favourite stars? And if not, why do you continue to support them?

Sidhu Moosewala

Asking for a friend.

AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM | Fall 2019|AAARZU MAGAZINE

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AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

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AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

Photography: AJ Studios Makeup & Hair: Girlfriendz Studio 7, Mindy Bansal, Silky Sohanpal Styling: Junita Thakorlal, Model: Natasha Kanji

604-501-2577

8312 128 St, Surrey madeinindia_surrey

AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM | Fall 2019|AAARZU MAGAZINE

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Everyone is talking about these

10 FALL FASHION TRENDS

by Junita Thakorlal

CAPES Feel like a superhero this season with the fashion-girl’s alternative to the trench coat as seen on the runways of Céline, Burberry, and Oscar de la Renta.

ASYMMETRICAL NECKLINE The one-shoulder look elevates your look by perfectly highlighting your collarbone and shoulder for a sexy look without revealing it all. The asymmetrical neckline was spotted on the runways of Carolina Hererra, Zimmermann and Kate Spade New York.

MOODY FLORALS Rich floral hues were seen on the runway of Paco Rabanne, Marc Jacobs, and Prada. Dark, moody florals on a dress, top or skirt is sure to grab attention this season.

LEATHER ON LEATHER Luxurious leather dresses are all the rage this season. If you prefer, try a pair of faux leather pants and blouse that complements one another. Faux leather outerwear gives us pure fashionista vibes!

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Featuring the Veronica Beard Fall/Winter 2019 Campaign

AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

POWER SUITS We have always been in love with smart suits. Celebrities are sporting this look already, with tailored blazers and wide-leg pants.

JEWEL TONES We all remember the iconic image from Max Mara’s fall 2019 runway show. Brighten up your wardrobe with a monochromatic look of bright coloured outerwear and matching over-the-knee boots.

PLAID MADNESS Burberry fever has hit all major designers as plaid becomes all the rage. If you don’t have a plaid piece hanging in your closet, it’s time to invest in one.

COZY OUTERWEAR Puffy outerwear is still on-trend and thank goodness for that if you like snuggling right into your coat. Be it a furry parka, a puffer jacket, or a lambswool-lined coat, it’s all about keeping warm and cozy.

LEOPARD PRINTS Spots are all the rage. Inner-wear and slip dresses to faux fur coats, it’s all in perfect style. If you’ve been sitting on the fence about getting your spots on, this season is your chance!

LACE ROMANCE Fashion houses Prada, Marc Jacobs and McQueen appear to share a love for lace this season. Very romantic and feminine, lace has a way of transforming any outfit into an instant chic and effortless look.

AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM | Fall 2019|AAARZU MAGAZINE

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Applauded for its light-weight formula, this particular serum contains ingredients that plumps, moisturizes, and brightens the skin. If you hate piling products on your skin, this all-in-one solution is perfect. $1,080, Holt Renfrew OIL MINIMIZING TONER

BY OLAY In an interview with Filmfare,

MADHURI DIXIT NENE The secret to her youthful glow

B

ollywood’s Dhak-Dhak girl, Madhuri Dixit Nene, has set hearts on fire since the time she started off in the industry. Praised for beauty, acting skills and dancing skills alike, Madhuri has always been the epitome of grace and elegance in Bollywood. The 52-yearold’s journey as a dancer began right at the tender age of three, when she went on to train in the Indian dance form – Kathak.

However, her acting career wasn’t without struggles. Her first few films failed commercially, but she finally

16

by Deepa Pillay

hit success in 1988 with the release of Tezaab. And since then, there was no looking back. Popularly known as the Queen of Eternal Youth, Madhuri’s skincare secrets have always been marvelled at. And here, we give you three amazing skincare products that fall perfectly in-line with Madhuri’s tips for glowing skin.

CELESTIAL BLACK DIAMOND EMULSION BY 111SKIN According to BollywoodShaadis.com, Madhuri washes her face twice a day, followed by a hydrating moisturizer and serum. We recommend the Celestial Black Diamond Emulsion by 111SKIN.

AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

Madhuri attests to using an Olay toner when her skin calls for it. The Oil Mininizing Toner by Olay is designed for everyday use.

It does an excellent job of removing impurities from the depths of your skin, without stripping it of essential moisture. $6.99, Save-On-Foods REGENERIST INSTANT FIX WRINKLE REVOLUTION COMPLEX Another Olay product this Bollywood beauty swears by is the Regenerist Instant Fix Wrinkle Revolution Complex by Olay. In an interview with Vogue, Madhuri says that the effects of the product are immediate and last for hours! She goes on to say that, with regular use, this particular Olay product shows lasting results in just two weeks. $24.99, London Drugs So, now that you know all of Madhuri’s skincare secrets, try them for yourself and see what you think. We’re pretty sure you’ll love the effects!

GET THE

LOOK

Recommended IT COSMETICS BYE BYE UNDER EYE

Photo: Mindy Bansal Makeup: GirlfriendzStudio7 Flowers: Le Fleur Jewels Model: Natasha Kanji

CORRECTING CONCEALER This color-correcting concealer delivers ultra-hydrating full coverage that never creases or cracks! Developed with plastic surgeons and infused with antiaging technology and high-performance pigments, it will instantly brighten your eye area to make tired eyes look instantly awake. Super creamy and lightweight, it easily blends into your skin for flawless results that last all day! $38, Sephora

@GirlfriendzStudio7

Expert Tip

To avoid wrinkles, keep those under eyes hydrated and smooth. Apply Vaseline on your under eyes 2-3 times per week before bed.

AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM | Fall 2019|AAARZU MAGAZINE

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Recommended

FARSALI UNICORN ESSENCE ANTIOXIDANT PRIMER SERUM

@LASHOUTSTUDIO

Expert Tip

Our skin is always aging and so it requires some extra TLC. Always remove your makeup at night no matter how tired you are, and apply a nourishing moisutizer.

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AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

Photo: Brandi Macqueen Photography, Makeup: LashoutStudio, Jewelry & Attire: Sequins By Aman, Model: Gursimar Mattu

The blend of oils leaves the skin hydrated, supple and glowing without feeling greasy. It contains powerful antioxidants and is packed with vitamin C, which supports the skin tone. I like to use this on mature skin, someone looking for a dewy makeup look, and love it for thick high-coverage foundation so that skin doesn’t look cakey. $69, Sephora

Recommended TARTE TIMELESS SMOOTHING PRIMER

Photo: Blackbeard Photography, Hair & Makeup: Aaina Creations, Outfit: Aaina Creations, Jewellery: Hookum Design Studio, Model: Amy Johal

This smoothing primer fills out the pores and blurs fine lines under the eyes for flawless foundation application.

The antioxidant-rich formula gently melts into the skin, delivering a surge of moisture, peptides, and other naturally derived elixirs for a firmer, smoother appearance. The lightweight texture and fresh powder scent provide the perfect blank canvas to enhance the look and wear time of makeup. $51, Sephora

@AAINA.CREATIONS

Expert Tip

I absolutely love primer! It's like cheating for your makeup application. If you're into the nomakeup look, try it for a smooth skin finish. Just add highlighter for that extra glow.

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MAKEUP MUST HAVES B

uilding your cosmetics kit can get expensive, but with a few key pieces that are easy to use, practical, and long-lasting, your daily application will be super easy. Here are some of our favourite products that will give you a quick boost in your confidence as you walk out the door and slay this fall!

COLOUR CORRECTOR

The Huestick is a multistick wonder balances out dark circles, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation. Buildable, blendable, weightless demi-matte color that is easy to apply under the eyes, lips, and cheeks.

LASHES

If you are obsessed with lashes, this is something you need to try. The Lashify Control Kit is a DIY lash amplification system which includes everything you need to have full, luxurious lashes.

Buy the system once, then all you need are the gossamer lash refills.

$33, LiveTinted.com

$145, Lashify.com

LIPSTICK

A creamy rich lipstick formula with high colour payoff in a no-shine matte finish, this shade of MAC Matte Lipstick looks truly amazing on all skin tones and is extremely pigmented for an all-day wear. This is the perfect fall lip color to transition from day to night.

$23, MACCosmetics.ca

LASH PRIMER

The Cils Booster XL formula allows more length, curve and thickness for the lashes, without clumping or smudging.

Suitable for sensitive eyes and enriched with XL Micro-Fibers, this primer helps to protect your lashes, gain maxi booster effect and intensifies your full lash look with mascara applied over it.

$34, Lancome.ca 20

AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

PERFUME

An effortlessly sensual, feminine fragrance with an eclectic combination of refined ingredients brings together notes of illuminating peach, delicate freesia, warm sandalwood, creamy vanilla, and natural rose.

Burberry Body Eau de Parfum is a fan favourite.

$99, Burberry.ca

ALL NIGHTER SETTING SPRAY

The Urban Decay All Nighter long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray works like magic, giving you a mattified complexion that lasts all day long. Just give your face a spritz before you head out the door!

$42, UrbanDecay.ca

MAKEUP REMOVER

The Lancome Bi-Facil Eye Makeup Remover gently whisks away all types of eye makeup, even waterproof mascara. The non-oily bi-phase formula leaves the eye area perfectly clean. Just give it a shake before you use it.

$39, thebay.com

BRONZER

The Benefit Hoola Matte Bronzer is made of finely milled bronzers which blend smoothly onto the skin. Use as a contour for a sun kissed glow all year round or use as an all-over lid eyeshadow.

$40, Sephora.ca

FACIAL COTTON

BRUSHES

The perfect full brush kit is the Morphe x Jaclyn Hill Brush Collection. A combination of synthetic and natural hair brushes, each of the shapes serves a purpose in your daily makeup application. It's all you will need!

The Shiseido Facial Cotton is 100% natural and uniquely manufactured for a consistent soft, smooth texture. It’s a favourite because of its absorbency, ability to maintain shape, and non-abrasive texture on the skin. You really only need one pad to remove all of your makeup.

$11, thebay.com

$215, ca.Morphe.com

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THE FALL FOLLOWING 1. MEN’s Men’s Essential Crew Neck Sweater $29, Men’s Medium Wash Jean $29 each, Men’s Flannel Shirt $29 2. BOYS Toddler Boys’ Graphic Sweater $19, Toddler Boys’ 2 Pack Socks $6

1

2

3. GIRLS Kid Girls’ Sweater Dress $29, Kid Girls’ Rib Knit Beanie $12 4. WOMEN’s Car Coat in Light Peach $89, Turtleneck $19, Dark Wash Jeans $39 5. Peacoat $79, High-Low Hem Turtleneck $29 6. Moto Jacket $39, Side Zipper Boots $49, Newsboy Cap $19, High-Rise Ankle Jeans in Medium Wash $39 7. 7 Grain Honey Flax Crackers (255g) $1.88 ea 8. MASTRO Cooked Italian Meat Trio (250g) $8.98 ea

8

9. GAY LEA Real Whipped Cream (225g) $3.98 ea, 10. DANESCO Ma Maison mini whisk $1.98 ea, 11, EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS scented tea lights in caramel $4.18 ea, EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS round glass tea light holder $0.98 ea,

ADVERTISEMENT Prices as at time of printing.

Prices as at time of printing.

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Rav Hehar

Store Manager

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Photo: Curtis Look Photography, Hair & Makeup: Katrina Aissa & Pei Yu He, Models: Natasha, Vanessa, Anastasiya

BODY BEAUTIFUL

about their weight by peers or family members. This teasing and bullying often leads to extreme weight control measures that result in severely unhealthy outcomes. NEDA also reported that weight stigmatization poses a significant threat to psychological health. Studies confirmed that weight shaming contributes significantly to depression and low selfesteem.

If more people knew about the severity of outcomes that come out of body shaming and ‘harmless’ remarks about someone’s weight, perhaps we could collectively curb the number of women who suffer deeply from this. A study conducted by the Journal of Adolescent Health concluded that negative body image was a predictor of suicidal thoughts among college students, especially among young girls! This study alone is proof that action needs to be taken as soon as possible to rectify the situation.

To tackle body shaming, body positivity

Find your ‘perfect image’ in any shape, size, or colour is a much-needed concept that has been

T

he year was 2015. The location: the city of Bangalore in India.

The time: my wedding! A whole multitude of emotions ran through my veins. From“Oh my god, what have I done?!” to “I have to live with a man now!” And it was at this exact moment, when I was all decked up in wedding attire and walking onto a stage in front of 1,500 guests, that my uncle decided to say – although he meant no harm – that my wedding outfit ‘highlighted’ my tummy! The result? I spent the rest of my wedding sucking in my tummy and hoping that the photographs would still turn out great.

24

by Deepa Pillay

A classic example of unintentional body shaming! From corsets to make our waists look slimmer, to shape-training shorts that ‘slim down’ our thighs now; women have forever been body shamed to fit some sort of societal perception of how we ‘should’ look. “You’re much too fat/thin to wear that outfit” is something we’ve just gotten used to hearing. And though the words usually come from a well-meaning place, the damage that it does is often irreversible.

According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), up to 40% of overweight girls are bullied

AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

growing over the past couple of years.

From brands celebrating different body sizes and skin tones through advertising to celebrities taking it upon themselves to spread the message of body positivity, the concept of ‘the perfect image’ is slowly shifting towards something much healthier. Though there’s still a lot of ground left to be covered, the steps taken thus far offer a glimmer of hope.

Perhaps the message of body positivity will prevent other unfortunate brides from having to suck in their tummies on their wedding day. Perhaps we’ll stop stressing about how we look and start focusing on how we feel. The glimmer of hope exists; it’s up to the rest of us to turn it into a full-fledged flame.

EDITOR'S CHOICE

FABULOUS FASHION FINDS

Taking inspo from the runways, here’s where you can shop local to get the same trendy looks!

SNAKESKIN PUMPS Shiny, sharp and seductive! The Steve Madden Vala pump features a tall stiletto heel, pointed toe and reflective patent or printed surfaces, a must for your wardrobe. $120, Steve Madden

AMBROSE BODYSUIT This thong-cut faux-wrap blouse bodysuit is drapey in silk-like luxurious fabric that resists wrinkles. Featuring a v-neck bodice and voluminous sleeves. $88, Babaton SKINNY JEANS These ultrahighrise Kate skinny jeans features a belted waist and comes in a trendy ankle length. They also come in a dark acid wash, making us strut way back through the 80’s. $59.95, Dynamite Clothing

LEATHER TRENCH COAT A classic wardrobe hero piece with ultra-chic appeal, this double-breasted trench coat is rendered in supple leather and detailed with touches of polished hardware with a detachable belt that cinches the waist. $995, Michael Kors

SHOULDER BAG Chloé’s ultra-luxe take on croc adds just the right amount of texture, gloss, and color to any look. This medium croc embossed calfskin shoulder bag is the epitome of luxury that will make any look automatically chic. $3,698.05, Nordstom

SATIN SKIRT Satin texture is super-hot this season, and this midi length skirt adds extra dimensions with an asymmetrical hem line, front ruffle appliqué, and just the right amount of colour pop. $45.90, Zara

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INVESTING IN KNOWLEDGE Gurpal Dhaliwal, President Western Community College

by Junita Thakorlal

P

ost-secondary education is on the rise in Canada, and universities and colleges are increasing their course offerings to keep up with demand. Gurpal Dhaliwal is an entrepreneur who saw this need for higher education and decided to meet it head on.

He arrived in Canada in 1993 with his parents, both of whom were university professors and soon found that they could not find jobs in teaching. “They both left their livelihoods behind in India and were not happy that their university education and experience was not recognized here leaving them to pursue labour jobs to make ends meet.

I was only 14 years old at the time, so they left me here with my sisters to complete my education and returned back to Canada upon retiring in 2007.”

The vison for Western Community College began in 2009 when Dhaliwal was inspired by his parents. “My dad taught English, Punjabi and Social Studies, and my mom taught History,” explains Dhaliwal. “But even after moving back here, I realized that they just weren’t happy, and I wanted to do something for them that would

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COVER STORY

keep them busy in something they are passionate about.”

“My parents instilled in me the passion of education and honestly, I wanted to build a legacy for them,” shared Dhaliwal from his office in the new Surrey campus. “We started off with a dream, I didn’t know anything about how to open a college but where there’s a will, there is a way.”

He confided that he was gifted in mathematics and his parents wanted him to pursue chartered accounting.

While he was in university, he began working at Real Canadian Superstore to pay for his tuition. “I realized that entry level accountants were making less money than I was making at Superstore, and the corporate culture there is very nurturing. They offered me a full-time position and I just worked my way up the ranks to become store manager.”

He explained how his career as the owner of a private college got started.

“I just called the Enquiry BC line and asked how to open up a college and how to get approved by the body that regulates college programs,” he said referring to the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB).

“At that time, we opened as Canadian Career College and were one of the first Punjabi-owned colleges on the healthcare side,” Dhaliwal remembered. “We struggled but I was proud of the fact that we signed up 65 students. We did whatever it took to serve our students, including offering a free shuttle service to make it convenient for our students who didn’t drive to get to campus.

This way, students can focus on their education – it’s these types of extra care that set us apart from other private colleges.”

“I almost shut down due to problems in my partnership, but it was my dad that pushed me to graduate our students,” he said in retrospect. “I remember doing a program with Harjinder Thind live on RED FM 93.1 as a last-ditch effort and were thrilled to receive 60-70 calls from new students who wanted to register! That’s when I decided to take over and re-brand as Western Community College.”

Western Community College opened its first campus in Surrey in 2012, second campus in Abbotsford in 2016, and third campus in South Surrey earlier this year. Having outgrown the original Surrey location, Dhaliwal built a swanky new Surrey campus which is located on Scott Road at 82 Avenue. The office of the registrar asserts red glass panes and modern white furniture giving it glamourous appeal. The remainder

A career in retail is not exactly what any South Asian parent dreams about for their children but as soon as Dhaliwal became assistant manager, his parents swung around to support him. Soon thereafter, he became the store manager of the Guildford and King George locations in Surrey. “Running a $100 million business per year managing 400 employees is not a small thing, they [my parents] knew that I was earning much more than an accountant, and that my job held meaning to so many staff members.”

“I learned about hands-on management, colleague engagement and training, office culture, customer service, vendor management – all of these skills are transferrable,” he claimed. “The role really helped me transition into Western Community College full-time.”

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committee consisting of 1 student, 1 graduate, 1 employer, and the dean.

“We take education very seriously, hence the accreditations. The purpose of the committee is to consistently audit the program to ensure that the quality of education is consistent with market trends,” claims Dhaliwal. “We won’t market a program until we meet full PTIB compliance.”

Photos: A Master Media

of the brand-new campus is no less impressive, boasting a cafeteria with daily meal options, a dedicated fully equipped lab with patient beds for health care classes, a library, a lecture hall, and a separate student services area where the Dean’s office is situated.

Today, Western Community College graduates more than 600 students per year through their three campuses.

True to his humble nature, Dhaliwal compared the relationship he has with his 61 staff members to that of an extended family. “We have lunch together almost every day or try to. I find that building relationships like this is so important to the success of the college.”

There are over 1 million students enrolled in Canadian post-secondary institutions, and according to the Canadian Bureau of International Education, Canada has become the fourth most popular country for postsecondary education internationally.

The demand for seats is only going to grow as the population aged 19 and under surpasses seniors aged 65+.

28

“Right now, there is a need for healthcare workers, so we are doing our part to help feed the demand. We produce 11% of all healthcare workers in BC. Baby boomers are retiring, and we can’t deny that the burden on our healthcare system will increase,” he shares his insight.

What sets Western Community College apart from the rest? Dhaliwal answers quickly, “Affordability is a big thing.

Those that don’t get into a public college look to private college and our rates for PTIB accredited courses are the lowest in the Metro Vancouver region. All of our courses are PTIB accredited which is essential for student loan approvals. And our employment rate is 97% within six months of graduation which is important for students.”

The college offers 41 programs options ranging from healthcare to hospitality to accounting to information technology.

Each of their programs are accredited with EQA (Education Quality Assurance) which is managed through a program advisor and an advisory

AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

He confides, “we’re the new kid on the block and have to compete with existing private colleges that have been around for decades.” Western Community College recently formed an independent Academic Council and Board of Governors which includes members from public and private colleges that hold high posts such as Deans, Department Heads, and Senior Instructors.

The Council’s role is to oversee governance, annual program reviews, and organize student awards, bursaries, and scholarships. The Board’s role is to measure the college’s success and standards are met through institutional compliance expectations, financial forecasts, student success rates, and measures of student and employee satisfaction.

“We already offer diplomas, but we need to continue progressing towards granting degrees, which is the main motive behind forming these external academic bodies,” Dhaliwal divulged.

Currently, Dhaliwal is courting the Degree Quality Assessment Board to be able to offer degree programs. He is also expanding into offering the dental hygienist program, licensed practical nursing, and hospitality management programs in the future.

For more information on programs offered, visit WesternCommunityCollege.ca

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A CANDID CONVERSATION

KAMAL DHILLON, BRAVEHEART

W

hen I first heard Kamal Dhillon speak about her own abuse, the atrocities that happened to her, many of which took place right here in our own city, I was reduced to tears. Yet, there she

her book, Black and Blue Sari, which is a detailed account of her abuse where she explains blow by painful blow - a tear-jerker to be sure. As a result of her injuries sustained from such brutal abuse, she sports an artificial jaw which

by Junita Thakorlal

Street gurdwara into a wealthy and influential family, she arrived at her new husband’s home in Richmond where he lived with his parents. That night, she was threatened and told to leave all of her friends and family behind and to devote her life to her new husband who was now her god. Soon thereafter, the beatings began.

After 4 years of marriage, he took the family to India for a 'visit' without informing them that his intention was to move there permanently. The beatings then became worse. “I was a prisoner in our house for years,” Dhillon recounts with sorrow. “I had been locked in the house, hung by my saree, had kerosene poured all over me and handed matches to end my life. I was taken to the ocean to be drowned. I had broken bones which have never properly healed.”

She relived the horrifying memories by recounting story after story for me. It made my heart ache and took all of the energy I could muster to not cry as I thought about all that she had endured.

“I begged him to kill me. I wanted to die but he wanted me to suffer. And when I wanted to live, that’s when he tried to kill me,” she said.

was, standing at the podium on stage, speaking with her head held high as she asserted the failures of the justice system with victims of crime such as her. I immediately looked her up and found 30

is a daily reminder to her of her own resilience.

Her story started when she was 18 years old. Following her marriage at Ross

AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

I asked her why she didn’t simply leave him, and she answered me with a question, “have you ever heard of trauma bonding? It’s when the victim creates a bond with her perpetrator. I became his possession, so freedom was out of the question. I had left all of my friends and family behind, and no one called for me, so he had me convinced that he is the only one that cared about me. I became resigned.”

If I hadn’t had experienced something

similar, I wouldn’t have been able to understand. Abuse is a killer. Thinking about being threatened, beaten and left for dead sends chills up and down my spine. Those were the darkest moments of my life and almost all of the women in my circle can relate. Physical trauma often heals, but the emotional trauma lingers like a shadow, even after years have passed.

“I was raped and sodomized…in front of my children. And do you know why?” I was scared to hear the answer.

“Because I forgot to iron his shirt. He had other shirts, but he wanted to prove his dominance.” She claimed that the children were scared but had turned a blind eye to the daily violence out of fear. It was at that moment that she decided to escape, her youngest child was three at the time. Two of her four children are now in law enforcement.

According to Statistics Canada, intimate partner violence accounts for onequarter of all police-reported violent crimes. Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women between the ages of 15 and 44. On average, every six days a woman is killed by her intimate partner. Every year, an estimated 362,000 children witness or experience family violence.

These statistics are a major cause for alarm, and begs the question of what can be done about it? “Honestly, I’m really disappointed in our justice system,” shares Dhillon who claims that the Liberal party and the laws are lax on perpetrators.

“I’ll give you an example,” she continued. “He was arrested on a Friday night, so he was forced to stay in jail for

Photos: provided

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31

three nights. He threatened to kill me in front of the police officer, who wrote an account of the threats. I went to stay at my parents’ house and after he was released on Monday, he came over and claimed that he still loved me and forgave me for reporting him to the cops. He was not charged because the police required evidence rather than my word against his, and witnessing a threat wasn’t enough. I remember my dad telling me to go home with him and that he will come and collect my body when I’m dead.”

Today, nothing much has changed.

Victim bruises and broken bones don’t hold much water in court. Even for girls like Maple Batalia who was shot in cold blood at the SFU Surrey parking lot 8 years ago by her ex-boyfriend, the point is that the police require the perpetrator to be caught committing an act of violence rather than take the victim’s word for it.

As for Dhillon’s father’s comment, this is where our society is broken. For family pride and honour, for keeping the perfect reputation, women keep having their bones broken. I urge you to ask the women in your circle, #metoo? You might be surprised at how many women 32

share stories of violence.

After he dealt so big a blow to her jaw that all of the bones from the top of the ear to the chin shattered, she had two ribs removed so the doctors could graft her a new jaw.

But the screws were on too tight and the bone cracked, so it had to be remade.

She is also a heart patient, lives with fibromyalgia, and has glaucoma. Still, she works tirelessly to support other victims of violence through her social work, her books, and her speaking career as an activist for women against domestic violence.

“The government never gave me any handouts. I had to pay for my medication and my surgeries, but the government can find $10million to pay as compensation to convicted terrorists?

Why can’t they redirect these funds to victims who can’t afford their medication, their house payments, basic groceries and needs for their children when they are abused and cut off from family support? This is why I advocate for those victims who don’t have a voice.”

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Dhillon speaks to mental health, domestic violence, empowerment and women’s issues around the country and has won more than twenty awards for her work. She consults on policy and trains professional groups, but she wants to do more. Her jaw gets sore after speaking for an hour, but she perseveres with the hopes that her story inspires and motivates others to find hope and strength.

In her most recent book, I Am Kamal: Survivor to Thriver, she compares her journey to that of the lotus flower. “The lotus flower thrives in muddy water,” she writes. “Despite the impurities, the lotus rises above the surface to bloom with remarkable beauty. The abuse I went through isn’t my identity.” The perseverance and resilience she displays is nothing short of extraordinary. She truly is a braveheart.

Kamal Dhillon honoured with the BC Medal of Good Citizenship, an honour reserved to a few outstanding citizens annually.

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‘

Photos: Ishu Kler from Ishu Kler Creative

FAT-BURNING HIIT WORKOUT

L

ose weight fast seems to always be the order of the day. But as you’ve probably gathered through all of the fad diets and failed work out attempts, health and wellness is a commitment. Whether you are just beginning to work out or simply reached a slump in your exercise regime, there’s one routine that can actually feel like your fat is melting away, and you can do from your living room!

HIIT (also known as High Intensity Interval Training) is highly effective because it mixes short bursts of activity 34

by Preet Bains

with even shorter rest periods. By keeping your heart rate up, you can actually burn more fat in less time.

I personally love them because: They are efficient, pushing your heart rate up to your OWN maximum capacity, burning more calories and fat.

A higher after burn effect means you can actually continue to burn MORE calories even after your workout is done, increases endurance over time, improves your overall cardiovascular health, cholesterol profile, as well as insulin sensitivity.

AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

Give this HIIT workout a try!

Set your timer according to your own fitness level.

Advanced: 1 minute each exercise/5 second rest between each exercise Intermediate: 1 minute each exercise/15 second rest between each exercise Beginner: 1 minute each exercise/30 second rest between each exercise PUSH UPS Get into plank position, with your hands under but slightly outside of your shoulders. Lower your body until your chest nearly touches the floor.

As you lower yourself, tuck your elbows, pulling them close to your body so that your upper arms form a 45-degree angle when your torso is in the bottom position of the move. Pause, and then push back to the starting position as quickly as possible. Keep your core

braced the entire time.

If you’re having difficulties with the push up try the push up on your knees SKATERS Start in a small squat. Jump sideways to the left, landing on your left leg. Bring your right leg behind to your left ankle, and don’t let it touch the floor.

Reverse direction by jumping to the right with your right leg. This completes one rep.

MOUNTAIN CLIMBERS Start in a traditional plank - shoulders over hands and weight on just your toes.

With your core engaged, bring your right knee forward under your chest, with the toes just off the ground. Return to your basic plank. Switch legs, bringing the left knee forward.

Keep switching legs and begin to pick up the pace until it feels a little like running in place in a plank position.

ALTERNATING FRONT LUNGE Keep your upper body straight, with your shoulders back and relaxed and chin up (pick a point to stare at in front of you so you don’t keep looking down). Always engage your core.

Step forward with one leg, lowering your hips until both knees are bent at about a 90-degree angle. Make sure your front knee is directly above your ankle, not pushed out too far, and make sure your other knee doesn’t touch the floor. Keep the weight in your heels as you push back up to the starting position.

PILE SQUATS Stand with your feet wider than hipwidth apart, toe’s slightly turned out.

Squat down as low as you can, keeping your heels on the ground and your back straight.

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AGING GRACEFULLY g

and livin The funny thing about life is that you realize the value of something only when it begins to leave you.

A

by Deepak Jayakar

s my hair turns from black to salt and pepper, my life perspective has changed, and I begin to have the same mid-life crisis questions that I heard so many others speak of:

ourselves ‘old’ until we reach a certain age milestone - such as 40, 50 or 60.

However, aging gracefully requires a strategy to be put into action TODAY because the clock will simply continue ticking with or without us.

WHAT IS MY LIFE’S PURPOSE? HAVE I ACHIEVED ENOUGH? AM I TRULY HAPPY?

According to Feng Shui principles, inactivity in life is the main enemy that causes poor aging. When your body and mind is active, it keeps stagnancy away so that energy flows through you harmoniously, helping to give you a happy aura.

Although we begin to age from the day we are born, most of us don’t consider

PERSONAL FENG SHUI Surround yourself with positive and inspiring people, stay optimistic, keep learning, set goals and ambitions, pick up a hobby, maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle, enjoy your social life, encourage participation in community, travel and take vacations regularly.

Look for the silver lining, love and lough, find joy in life and always be well-groomed - these are some of the important aspects of having excellent personal Feng Shui and sets the stage to living gracefully.

(c) Shutterstock/Yakobchuk Viacheslaw

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HOME FENG SHUI Referring to the Feng Shui Lo-Shu chart, the Northeast and Southwest directions are considered as the direct and indirect spirits of your home that control your mental and

physical health respectively.

• Keep these areas free of clutter and negative items such as shoes, dirty linen, etc.

• Burn aroma candles.

• Display happy images, inspirational quotes, books, and photos of important life events.

• Place an earthenware or stone sculpture, porcelain or crystal.

• Include joyful décor such as area rugs and drapes, colorful cushions, bright colors, art statues of elephants/horses/ kissing birds or dolphins.

• Items of divinity such as angels are very auspicious. You can also place a small statue of Lord Ganesha in NE for wisdom, knowledge, and success and Goddess Lakshmi in SW for health, wealth, prosperity.

Like a fine wine, with every passing year life should mature to be sweeter.

As we grow older, our life also grows bigger, bolder and brighter with more experiences and challenges, some of which we win and some of which we lose. Both winning and losing brings us lessons, and by incorporating Feng Shui’s philosophy that growth is the essence of life, you might just find that aging gracefully is much more practical than you realize. In today’s word of information technology where ranking is the way of thinking, we should consider life as a project and live purposefully with passion in order to live and age gracefully.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Deepak is Canada’s most popular and sought-after designer and Feng Shui Master. With over 25 years of experience, his passion for design has allowed him transform projects into outstanding spaces.

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37

URBAN CHANGEMAKER Roshni Patel, CEO & Co-Founder of Urban Asian by Deepa Pillay

I

f you’re a South Asian living in North America, chances are you’ve heard about Urban Asian.

Movie reviews, Bollywood gossip, interviews with celebrities, Urban Asian is an online platform geared towards the modern, forward-thinking South Asian.

And it all started with one woman – Roshni Patel.

Equipped with her master’s in integrated marketing communications and bachelor’s in business degrees, she set out to pursue her passion for entrepreneurship in media, music and the arts. Taking inspiration from her father, a radio pioneer in Florida, she interned with a major media relations firm in New York City where her client roster included global sensations including Jay Sean and Raghav.

Taking a leap of faith, she co-founded UrbanAsian.com in 2010 with her three partners Aman Syal, Amar Syal, and John Merrell and became the CEO. We sat down with Roshni to find out more: HOW DID URBAN ASIAN GET STARTED? When I was working in New York, Aman Syal approached me about starting a new platform for South Asians. At the time, there weren’t many outlets in the U.S. catered to this demographic that showcased our arts and accomplishments, which is so much more than Bollywood gossip. There was clearly a gap in the market, so I decided to take a leap of faith and dove headfirst into the new venture. There hasn’t been a single day where I’ve regretted the decision. Every day, I get to interact with inspiring South Asian individuals,

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Q&a and I’m glad I get to tell their story.

WHAT IS URBAN ASIAN’S ULTIMATE GOAL? The reason for our existence is to showcase South Asian culture. Who are we? What do we stand for? Who are the South Asian MVPs that most time go unnoticed? We want to be able to tell these stories so the whole world knows just how valuable our community is.

DID YOU FACE ANY NEGATIVITY OR PUSHBACK ABOUT THE CREATION OF URBAN ASIAN? Oh, I could go on and on! I had so many people put me down for creating this site. People would say it wasn’t worth the time and effort and I wouldn’t ‘get anything’ out of it. But that only drove me to strive harder and push through the negativity. I wanted to be the voice of the unheard.

Your passion is what drives you! If you’re passionate about something, what’s stopping you from pursing it? I distinctly remember this one incident.

There was a girl who told me that I shouldn’t bother with trying to make my blog a success because I had a medical condition, epilepsy to be precise, and that I had no business trying to be a voice in the blogging community. Of course, this hurt my feelings, but I said to myself, “Why should I let other people bring me down? I control my narrative! Not anybody else.”

No matter what obstacle you face – medical or otherwise – you should never let it break you. As a community, we need to stick together. Our subcontinent is so large, we have so much to say! If we don’t start voicing our thoughts and opinions, who else will do it for is? Our stories need to be told; and it’s up to us to make that happen.

WHY DO PRESENT ISSUES THAT ARE CONSIDERED ‘CONTROVERSIAL’ IN OUR COMMUNITY? WHY NOT JUST FOCUS ON ‘REGULAR’ ISSUES? Because those ‘controversial’ issues matter! More than people realize.

From body shaming to skin lightening, we need to talk about issues that are impacting us…especially if they’re doing so in a negative way. Truth be told, we haven’t written as many articles on these kind of issues as we’d have liked to. But it is our goal for this year and for the years ahead.

I cannot tell you how many times South Asians are body shamed for how the look, what they wear, and more.

This is so wrong! We need to unite and tell these stories. The first step towards making a change is starting a conversation. We must remember that.

Talking about sensitive issues will only educate non-South Asians about who we are. It will help them understand us and our culture better.

WHAT IS THE MOST CONTROVERSIAL TOPIC YOU HAVE EVER COVERED? We posted an article about the 2012 Nirbhaya rape case in New Delhi along with the BBC documentary, and a few days later, we received a cyber security letter from India demanding that we take the article down! In that week alone, we had 5 million reads and the article reached CNN, NBC, and other big media outlets. I still wonder – why would someone not want us to talk about it? It so clearly NEEDS to be talked about! Which is why we focus on telling more of stories that are generally hidden away.

NAME ONE FIERCE INDIAN WOMAN THAT YOU

ABSOLUTELY LOOK UP TO. Definitely my Mom and my Joshana Masi (my mom’s sister in San Jose, California). All of my Masi’s are great but with Joshana Masi, it’s different.

I can pick up the phone and call her to talk about social issues all day long and she’d never get bored! She is so knowledgeable about these things and has such great insight. I think that’s what inspired me to talk about real life

Urban Asian Founders Amar Syal, Roshni Patel, Aman Syal, and John Merrell. Photos: provided

incidents through Urban Asian. And my mom…well, she’s my source biggest source of strength.

WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE FOR THOSE STRIVING TO BUILD A LEGACY OR MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD? Simple, OWN who you are and don’t shy away. If there’s a story to be told, be the one to tell it. As the old adage goes

by Mahatma Gandhi, “BE the change you wish to see in the world!”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: DEEPA PILLAY Deepa moved to Canada from Bangalore, India in 2017.

She says writing for Aaarzu keeps her connected to her roots. In her spare time, Deepa enjoys reading mystery novels, trying different cuisines, and spending time with her husband and dog.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE

The Modern Guide to

INTERETHNIC DATING

M

any South Asian communities and neighborhoods have historically transpired as “birds of a feather flocking together”.

Afterall, people tend to congregate with others sharing similar culture, language, values, etc. With the planting of each generational seed in Canadian soil, interracial and interethnic relationships are more and more common.

If you find yourself in one, here’s some important points to keep in mind: BE OPEN TO LEARN Various holiday customs, differing religious view, and divergent cultural values are likely issues that will arise in any relationship. Acknowledging and embracing such differences can be the saving grace. Learning about your partner’s background and culture can be very enriching. Share these with your own family and encourage them to participate… even if your mom insists on wearing a salwar kameez to Easter dinner.

40

by Sonya Braich

HAVE A PLAN One of the key aspects of successfully building inter-ethnic relationships is figuring out how to navigate through the obstacles. As cliché as it sounds, have a plan. Decide on holidays to celebrate as a family, whether a particular religion will be observed, what language you speak at home, etc. Having this discussion, coming to agreements and continuing to pursue open communication will save the relationship strain later, and is especially important if there is going to be children involved. Make the arrangements clear to friends and family so they are aware and understand expectations.

TAKE PRIDE IN YOUR CULTURE Some may accuse your decision as a defiance of your own culture or feel you think you’re too good for anyone who isn’t Apna. Silence such allegations with a sense of dignity and pride in where you come from. Promote holidays like Diwali on social media, bring samosas to potlucks, and educate your partner’s family about Indian customs.

OTHER PEOPLE’S OPINION You might be the topic of gossip amongst the aunties, getting more than a few looks and stares. Others may be less shy about sharing their opinions out loud, even if it’s not their business, and express their disapproval right to your face. Such instances can be used as opportunities to educate and move towards creating a climate of

BE PATIENT Whether it’s repeating the correct pronunciation of your partner’s name to Bibi Ji, or your mother-in-law learning how to wrap a sari, employ patience and be confident that everyone comes around in due time. Once cultural clash humps subside, most people are eventually willing to put aside differences for the sake of family peace.

AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

understanding and tolerance. However, arguing with ignorance from people who are stuck in their ways, unwilling to engage in open dialogue is just frustrating and often has the counter outcome. It’s best to walk away in these circumstances and agree to disagree.

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BAD DATE? WE’VE GOT YOU! A Guide To Surviving A Date Gone Wrong

D

by Sonya Braich

ating is an exhilarating process: fishing through potential contenders to find your lifelong mate, looking for a casual, fun fling, or falling somewhere in between. Whatever your mission, it’s inevitable you have experienced the dreaded bad date, which can leave you feeling flustered, bemused and hopeless.

Before you throw in the towel and swear off ever dating again, learn to survive dating horrors the next time you encounter a bad date, or avert them altogether, by following these guidelines:

KEEP IT SHORT Limit dates to an hour … MAX! Sixty minutes is plenty of time to figure out if the person across from you is second date material. Dinner, a movie, or any other activity demanding more than an hour of your time is excruciating to sit through if you realize within the first five minutes you never want to see the person again. Your time is precious hanging out with someone you’re just not that into is wasting it. Instead, grab a coffee or go for a walk.

AVOID ALCOHOL Going for a drink (or more) on a first date has become the norm and seems like a good idea especially if you’re shy and want that liquid courage. As much as alcohol may appear to calm the nerves, studies show that people can over drink when they are nervous.

Using booze or other substances to help you loosen up also creates a false sense of personability or connection which often dwindles without the presence of alcohol or drugs.

HONE IN ON SMALL TALK Get past the awkwardness of a first date by arming yourself with a list of your top talking points and some questions

(c) Shutterstock/Antonio Guillem

of things you would like to know about the person. This might sound a bit contrived, but you and your date will be thankful when there’s a lull in the conversation. Be sure to keep the convo light and avoid talking about anything too personal or serious.

CHECK YOUR EXPECTATIONS AT THE DOOR Whether you are looking for Mr. Right or Mr. Right Now, heading into a first date with high expectations is a slippery slope. The interaction online or over the phone may be on point, but a face-toface meeting is another story, and the physical chemistry in-person just might not measure up. On the same note, try to leave your judgments behind. Just because he shows up in dire need of a shave, doesn’t mean he is an automatic write off. Give the date a chance before planning your exit strategy.

MAINTAIN A POSITIVE MINDSET It’s not always easy to stay positive after a series of bad dates but going into any meeting with a cynical attitude is bound to hex it, not to mention the negative energy you put out into the universe.

Instead of jumping on the bitter bus, vowing to be done with dating forever, enjoy the game. Think of each bad date as practice for the main event.

As terrible as a bad date might be, it will come to an end and you will survive.

They often make good stories so look back with amusement and learn from them. Most importantly, do not give up and have fun!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Sonya studied Sexuality in Cinema at Concordia University in Montreal.

She offers workshops on relationship enhancement, expanding sexual horizons and intimate product sales. She also writes erotica fiction.

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A MASTER MEDIA

PHOTOGRAPHY & CINEMATOGRAPHY

604.723.6804 www.amastermedia.com info@amastermedia.com instagram.com/amastermedia youtube.com/amastermedia facebook.com/amastermedia

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FOURSOMES

I met someone that I want to spend the rest of my life with, but my parents are divorced, and his parents are pretty orthodox. How do I tell his parents or even handle the “meet the parents”? How do I gain their approval and trust?

22JI CREEPS

DEAR FOURSOMES, Unless you’re planning foursomes with his parents, it’s none of their business (please send pics of the parents if they are interested in some side action with an Aunty). You both need to have confidence in your decision to be together and if he can’t stand up for you now, give him a thappar and move on.

DEAR BEHENJI Maria Qamar is a first-generation Canadian from a traditional South Asian family. She moved to Canada at the age of nine in 2001 from Pakistan and was forced to endure bullying and racism as a young girl in a post 9/11 Toronto. Art became a means for her to handle realities of being a South Asian Canadian. She is an Instagram sensation and the author of the Trust No Aunty published in 2017.

Image: Aurat featured at the Richard Taittinger Gallery in New York until October 6. 2019. Acrylic and ink on canvas. RichardTaittinger.com

SPICY CHUTNEY,

I'm trying online dating and came across the profile of my friend's husband on Tinder which he laughed off as a joke. Months later, I see it on Bumble. I'm not sure if I should tell her or let her discover it by herself ?

DEAR SPICY CHUTNEY, Is he good looking?! The spicy chutneys in the buffets are always

the best! But if you prefer mild then know that a man and wife always know what is going on between them. Pakkah she knows and is maybe into hari mirch herself, and if she doesn’t know then I would let her figure out for herself or you might get the entire chutney bowl dumped on your head if she thinks you swiped right.

When I go to weddings, I get super creeped out by the desi guys who stare and feel me up with their eyes. Even in the temple! But that doesn't deter them from making lewd comments or gawking. Should I tell them off or just let it be?

DEAR 22JI, Best solution is to make these kanjars your paaji’s, they probably look like kaddus anyway. Very sweetly tell them that you will be coming over on Raksha Bandhan to collect your hardearned didi's reward.

Then before walking away, put your hands together and salute them with a Sat Sri Akal Paaji!

KHUSH RAHO, MERE DOSTO! Have a question for Behenji?

Email to hello@aaarzumagazine.com with the subject: Dear Behenji.

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INDIGENOUS

(c) Shutterstock/Mila Supinskaya Glashchenko

the India in us by Madhvika Singh

A

s I sat down for dinner with my son for a dish of Rajma-Chawal, a staple dish consisting of rice and curried kidney beans, I asked which family (meaning Botanical) kidney beans belonged to? He smiled and said, “Singh Family!” We laughed so hard together, and I felt my responsibility as an immigrant parent had been achieved. My children were culturally immersed and connected to their heritage. And then I thought, is that it?

Are my children fully immersed in their Indian culture that being American won’t detach them from their roots?

This was not the first time this thought had passed my mind. What actually IS cultural immersion? And why is it important to keep that connection alive in the western world?

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I realized as a parent that it was important and comforting to impart my Indian values to my children, that they should have a piece of who they are whether they choose to use it or not. It is crucial for a child to be able to identify with the world their parents came from, a world which I still belong to in many ways – from the food I cook, the language spoken at home, the ethnic clothes I wear and the cultural activities I partake in. These are the things that ‘water’ my Indian roots.

Social scientists theorize that this connectivity gives a sense of belonging to a larger group that shares the same set of values. Belonging to a similar looking group gives us a sense of comfort. The feeling that someone is like me nourishes the feeling that

AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

someone understands me, and I am not alone, which is critical for my sense of wellbeing.

As immigrant families try to settle and make ends meet on so many fronts, parenting itself becomes quite a task to accomplish, let alone raising bi-cultural children. Many social and practical aspects play a critical role. The diversity mix of the area, availability of ethnic resources, and connections back home can dictate the home environment in bridging the gap. Along with that comes consistency, perseverance and a parent’s perception about their own ethnic values adds more dimensions to this effort. Every piece needs to be played well for the ‘orchestra’ with tons of unknown ‘strings’ which may not necessarily be seen but felt.

It is critical for parents to evaluate what exactly they expect from their children when they say Indian culture.

What defines one as being Indian is a very much a personal journey.

Many have incorporated the largely western celebrations of Valentine’s Day, Halloween and Thanksgiving in addition to traditional festivals such as Diwali, Holi, Pongal and others.

It is important for parents to be able to answer their children’s questions about what being Indian or holding Indian values means and the practices that are associated with it. It’s just not the introduction and teaching of the cultural values that are critical in ensuring they are retained for the long term, but also the ways in which these are practiced in daily life.

While what defines one as Indian may vary from person to person, things like food, clothing, festivals and religion seem to be a common thread. These are critical not only to their identity, but also for passing down our rich history and heritage.

FOOD Food is an important aspect of our association with our culture. It’s not just the ability to eat and appreciate ethnic foods, but also the ability to cook brings about real connection. For children who already have to make efforts to blend in, feeling confident about traditional food is an added challenge. Involving them in the process of cooking can help improve their confidence.

CLOTHING Clothing is an outward expression of our association with our culture.

Blending traditional clothing and

jewelry in our regular lives is crucial for children to normalize it as opposed to an occasional where they have to dress up.

RELIGION Although religion is a very sensitive, personal and often a difficult topic, introduction at an early age improves the chances of children understanding and perhaps even practice it wholeheartedly rather than carrying it as their passive identity. Introducing the philosophy of religion might be a better idea as opposed to just observing the ritual so children understand the depths to which religion carries positive impacts of humankind and values practiced by your family.

FESTIVALS Trying to celebrate festivals at home along with attending them as organized events allows for the reinforcement of our traditions. Seeing parents perform the tradition brings children closer to what parents have been preaching. At the same time, the family effort that

goes into bringing a celebration together lends children first hand experience and introduces the shared responsibility.

The ultimate goal is to give our children ‘tools of tradition’ with the hope that they find them useful as they shape their lives. Even though as parents we secretly hope that they will carry their Indiginous identity in spirit and practice, even if they don’t, with all the enrichment they would have received would have given them the ability to analyze and evaluate when faced with dilemas in real life situations when you aren’t around to guide them. As long as they are wise and deliberate about their decisions, they will end up on the right path.

Wishing everyone in the journey all the very best!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Madhvika was raised in India and currently lives in San Francisco Bay Area. Madhvika has a background in Ayurved and Health Policy, with a passion for culture, gardening and writing.

(c) Shutterstock/ Wong Yu Liang

Much easier said, than done. And at times, the relentlessness required to make it happen seems to be draining, discouraging and disappointing to put it mildly.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE

THE UNSEEN CEILING

Immigrants, Women, and – most importantly – Immigrant Women

by Deepa Pillay

(c) Yuriy Maksymiv/shutterstock

H

ow often have you seen an immigrant woman in a position of leadership in Canada? Chances are, you’re scrambling trying to answer that question. That’s just the reality of the situation. Public and private sectors alike, the chances of finding an immigrant woman in a leadership position are slim to none.

immigrants in Canada are more likely to hold a bachelor’s degree or higher than women born in Canada. But, according to a report by the Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council (TRIEC), female immigrants with university degrees earn – on average – half of their Canadianborn counterparts. These statistics are enough to send up some red flares.

The statistics are startling. Female

There has been plenty written about

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hiring women and hiring immigrants for leadership positions. Let’s tackle these subjects individually.

HIRING WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP ROLES Earlier this year, Shama Hyder wrote an in-depth article published in Inc. Magazine addressing hidden advantages of women in leadership. She reported that women have a distinct competitive edge in soft skills over men, referring to

soft skills as “any ability pertaining to the way you approach others or handle your professional life.” Included in this array of skills are professionalism, collaboration, critical thinking, and more; all the qualities that make a successful leader.

Another report by the Credit Suisse Research Institute concluded that companies with women on the board saw increased financial gains, delivered higher return on equity (ROE) and better average growth, lower net debt equity and better average growth.

HIRING IMMIGRANTS IN LEADERSHIP ROLES When it comes to immigrants in positions of leadership, we don’t even need to look towards formalized articles and reports to understand the value.

Consider your own experience. How often have you come across a person from another country who brought in a perspective you couldn’t possibly have thought of ? How often has another immigrant expanded your thought process?

HIRING IMMIGRANT WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP ROLES In March of this year, the Canadian HR Reporter informed that unemployment continues to be a barrier in realizing the true potential of women immigrants.

The article suggests that universityeducated women immigrants were 3.5 times more likely to be unemployed than university-educated men born in Canada. The gender gap in wages is just as prevalent.

There has been a lot of conversation around promoting gender equality in the workspace. While this conversation is slowly gaining momentum, the subject of immigrant women in the workforce is seldom acknowledged. Employers in Canada must realize the fact that immigrants are generally more educated than Canadian-born candidates, giving them a specific set of skills over their Canadian-born counterparts.

During my own personal MBA journey, I studied International Human Resources as a core course module which focused extensively on the benefits of hiring immigrants and having them lead a team. Not only did the articles quoted talk about increased productivity, but it also stressed on the importance of having a diverse leadership board in order for a company to succeed in an increasingly globalised environment.

As Mary Lou Maher, managing partner at KPMG Canada and Elio Luongo, chief executive and senior partner at KPMG Canada talked about in an opinion piece in Globe and Mail, “on average, immigrants – women and men alike – tend to be more educated than Canadian-born residents. Nearly 40 per cent of immigrants to Canada hold a bachelor’s degree, compared with 24 per cent of Canadian-born residents, with more than 11 per cent holding master’s degrees, compared with just 5 per cent.”

There are stacks of articles written on the benefits of women leaders and tons on benefits of immigrants as leaders, but where are the articles and reports on immigrant women in leadership positions? Perhaps, the lack of this is due to the fact that – unfortunately – not much thought has been given to this.

The statistics and evidence are mounting already.

All that’s left is for employers to stand up and take notice; and not without cause. Every day, the percentage of

immigrants in the Canadian labour market is rising. As Maher and Luongo say, “Canada’s continued prosperity will increasingly hinge on our ability to attract skilled and educated immigrants to move here. Half of those immigrants will be women. As employers, we need to capitalize on the education, experience and courage of these women to grow our own businesses – and our economy.”

Perhaps, more companies can follow KPMG’s lead; the company is beginning to put more emphasis on the characteristics and qualities that lead immigrant women to move huge distances to Canada in search for better opportunities for themselves and their families. This matters more than the value of ‘Canadian work and education experience.’

It is about time all companies start doing this. Why now? Globalization is cementing itself further and further as days progress, and women are getting bolder about standing up for what they believe in and demanding what they deserve. If you consider all of these factors, it is safe to assume that the value of immigrant women in the workforce is something that cannot go ignored for much longer. Suffice to say, the future of Canada, including its economic growth, depends on it.

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WHEN OTHERS TAKE YOUR

GLORY

by Manpreet Dhillon

T

he fear of someone else taking credit for our work is a real one. I am sure we have all been there at some point where you put in so much work, attention and energy and then you are sitting in the meeting where someone

try my best to give credit when it is due.

Still, it is difficult sometimes to interject to give that credit. In my ideal world, we can earmark credit to each and everyone’s contribution, yet we must remember there are also many moving parts to every project.

takes credit for your work and you really feel like you deserve it and there was an opportunity to express that, then talk to the person. Difficult conversations are best had to avoid resentment and the festering of negative feelings. It keeps the energy clear to allow more productivity to happen.

It is also just as important to give credit when it is due. It is about karma. If you are constantly taking credit for other people’s work, they will want to take credit for yours.

(c) Shutterstock/Hurst Photo

takes credit for your work. You sit there a little shell-shocked and thinking, “WTF, who are you to take credit for all that I did??”

It is an interesting place to navigate when you are a part of a team and you have a manager. I have been on both sides where I have a very participative leadership style where I love having everyone participate, give their opinion and come to a group consensus. There are times when my team has done amazing work, yet I receive all the credit. As a manager, I feel horrible and 50

So, what can you do to be credited and acknowledged for your work? Figure out what type of feedback you need. That is an important piece. Are you someone who needs feedback publicly including acknowledgement in front of others, do you need a physical reward or do you need feedback in writing or verbal? The more you understand yourself and what you need to feel fulfilled and filled up, the more you can set up mechanisms to make it happen.

It is about being proactive. If someone

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Everyone wants to feel valued, appreciated and have their work be recognized regardless of their position.

In coaching many CEOs over the years, there are many who, despite their leadership role, are still looking for the acknowledgement that their team gives them, hoping for positive feedback on their performance and work. At the end of the day, the CEO is responsible for the organization but they do need reassurance that their work is being recognized as well. When we give credit, it is less likely people will take it when it is not theirs to take.

In any workplace, do your best to create an environment where there is open communication, people feel valued and appreciated and create a place where everyone’s work is recognized.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Manpreet

is the Founder and CEO of veza, a socially responsible company offering training, workshops, international trade missions and executive and career coaching to individuals and companies. veza aims to transform the face of leadership by accelerating more women of cultural backgrounds in leadership positions.

AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM | Fall 2019|AAARZU MAGAZINE (c) Yuriy Maksymiv/shutterstock

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Ambient Photo: Pinterest

SET THE MOOD 3 techniques to light up your space at home for productivity and play.by Ritika B

M

ost people don’t give lighting as much attention, however when done right, lighting makes a big impact in any space, big or small. Light placement and layering can also make a space productive, seductive, or dramatic! Any well-designed space needs a mix of the following three types of lighting: AMBIENT Ambient lighting provides an even, overall light to a room. Recessed lights, chandeliers, and wall-mounted sconces are great ways to illuminate any space.

Every room typically has some form of generic ambient light installed and while these may be sufficient enough, taking them one step further by adding dimmers can make all the difference between generic and moody for any time of day!

TASK Task lighting is used to provide illumination while conducting tasks such

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as food prep, crafts, reading, studying, and makeup. Brighter lighting is required to create a productive setting.

Elegant table and floor lamps in the bedroom and living room provide a good reading spot and make for great statement pieces. Funky desk lamps keep things bright and energizing for work. Sconces in the bathrooms are super stylish and perfect for grooming.

And in the kitchen, undercabinet LED lighting is a very cost-effective way to illuminate the counter for food prep and prevent shadows from overhead lighting.

Pendant lights Task Photo: Anthropologie over the kitchen island create a beautiful focal piece that also provide a bright space to work under.

Keeping the ambient lighting dim and

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Accent Photo: Alene Workman Design

turn on task lighting for a cozy space!

ACCENT Accent lighting is used to highlight and enhance special wall textures, architecture, artwork, and sculptures.

It creates a focal point in a space and can make a room extremely dramatic!

Lighting includes overhanging art lights, uni-directional track and spot lights, and hidden LED lighting in ceiling structures to create a glowing effect.

Dim the ambient lights and turn on the accent lights to create a very visually interesting space! Or set up holiday decorations near accent lighting sources for an instantly deep and dramatic effect!

Lighting is one of my favourite elements of design that can truly transform the mood of any space. So, light up your life and home, and have some fun by incorporating all three types of light to create the mood you desire!

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Fighting the GOOD FIGHT A modern girl's take on an age old tradition

D

iwali, popularly known as the “Festival of Lights”, is a religious holiday celebrated around the world by millions of Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and Buddhists alike. Although it holds varying significance for each faith, the universal theme of Diwali has always been light winning over darkness.

Sikhs worldwide celebrate Diwali as “Bandi Chhor Divas”, the day of liberation, when Guru HarGobind Sahib Ji liberated 52 captive political prisoners from the oppressive hands of the Mughal Raj. For Jains, Diwali marks the anniversary of nirvana, or when Mahavira, their 24th savior, attained moksha (liberation). Buddhists celebrate Diwali as “Ashok Vijaydashami”, the day Emperor Ashoka adopted the path of Buddhism and saw the light.

For Hindus, Diwali is one of the most special holidays of the year. Diwali marks the defeat of evil Ravana and the victory of Lord Rama.

we still light traditional diyas in tiny clay pots with a cotton wick and ghee? Why shouldn’t I just switch on my lamp or Christmas lights instead? Why should we light such diya’s when the world has changed so much from the times of Ram and Ravana?

I often asked myself these questions growing up, but now as I’ve grown to understand my culture as an adult, I see beauty and truth in the ways of my ancestors. I’ve come to understand the stories of my faith as symbolic of the world around us, rather than literal. I don't believe Ravana was a five-headed demon, but really just a powerful and greedy individual who had the power of

Diwali is celebrated by drawing colorful rangoli designs, performing puja’s (prayers), lighting fireworks, buying new clothes, sharing sweets and food, gathering with family and friends and spreading happiness amongst the community. Most significantly, Diwali is celebrated by lighting numerous diyas (candles) around the home. With an open fire, safety is an increasingly valid concern, especially with children in the house. With readily available light bulbs and battery-operated candles, why do

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by Pooja Patel

AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

five heads which were kama (lust), krodh (rage), lobh (greed), moh (attachment) and ahankar (conceit). In todays’ world, we’ve all seen someone controlled by these five heads, whether it’s politicians, leaders, or bullies.

We all have inner demons that hold us back from reaching our full potential.

We can recognize the battles we have to face in our own world, whether it’s for justice and equality, the rights of LGBTQ individuals, the safety of marginalized minorities, or respect and assistance for women.

That’s why this light is still relevant today, after all these years. A flame,

We can recognize the battles we have to face in our own world, whether it’s for justice and equality, the rights of LGBTQ individuals, the safety of marginalized minorities, or respect and assistance for women.

unlike any other source of light, has the potential to spread. As much as a light bulb or artificial light is safer and easier in many ways, the traditional method of celebrating Diwali and auspicious holidays with a flame exists because a flame can spread from wick to wick, by one small touch.

So, this Diwali, take your light and spread it with kind words -- by spreading knowledge and by fighting against internal and societal Ravaanas. After all, a small flame is what will start it all. When used in the wrong way like Ravaan, it can burn everything down. But when used in the right way, it can enlighten the world.

That's the point of Diwali’s flame.

This Diwali, may light win over darkness, may you be liberated from your inner demons, untied from your shackles, and freed from the constraints that hold you back.

Photo: provided, Model: Pooja Patel, Ghunghat Hoodie: Mae People., Tshirt: Desi-Faire

A light bulb cannot spread in the same way. This represents how the flame of knowledge over ignorance can spread from person to person too when touched the right way. You can spread the light of righteousness from one person to the next, and one candle to the next, when the flame is real; only a real flame touches another and spreads.

The flame of Diwali can teach us to touch others, while simultaneously enlightening the world around us, one diya (candle) at a time.

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VEGETABLE SAMOSA Crispy parsley-infused pastry surrounds this medley of vegetables with a warm savoury seasoning. Peas, carrots and potatoes make this a favourite.

Convenient Comfort Foods with a Global Taste

HANDMADE SAMOSAS Nana’s Kitchen distributes to every major grocery chain across Canada and United States of America. The Surrey-based 22,000 square foot facility churns out over 25,000 samosas per day which get shipped to over 5,000 retail outlets and restaurants. Samosas are made in seven different flavours including Cajun, Tandoori, and Butter Chicken.

BUTTER CHICKEN SAMOSA Enjoy all the flavour of a butter chicken dish in a ready to eat samosa.

Chicken with rice and vegetables in our legendary butter chicken seasoning inside of a crispy pastry.

CHICKEN SAMOSA Chicken bursting with peas, potatoes and carrots, and surrounded by a warm Indian spice blend and then folded into a pastry for a crispy taste sensation. One of our most popular choices!

CHICKEN TANDOORI SAMOSA Chicken with rice, carrots, peas and onion come alive in our flavourful tandoori masala spice blend which is then folded into a tomato infused pastry.

LENTIL SAMOSA Featuring green and red lentils and organic quinoa, this lightly spiced filling is surrounded by a red pepper infused crispy pastry.

Enjoy Samosas Lunch, Dinner, Snack.

our ready-to-eat savoury for

or as a grab and go

Available in the deli section in your local grocery store.

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yournanaskitchen.com

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(604) 572-6202

Photo: Tracy Kusiewicz at Foodie Photography Food Designer: Lawren Moneta at Lawren Moneta Culinary Media

We’ve been producing flavourful, ready to eat items since 2000.

Find Nana’s Kitchen products at these fine retailers: Safeway, Save-On-Foods, Price Smart Foods, The Real Canadian Superstore, Urbanfare, IGA, Nesters Food Market and more!

Federally Registered Plant

yournanaskitchen.com

AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM | Fall 2019|AAARZU MAGAZINE

(604) 572-6202

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The Home of

WEST COAST CULTURE

E

xecutive Chef Mark Grigg leads a team of culinary artists that create globally inspired cuisine crafted from local ingredients and sustainable food products.

His also a proud member of the Ocean Wise program through the Vancouver Aquarium. Uniquely local and luxuriously set inside of the Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel, MiXT Lobby lounge has an artfully designed menu with a depth of West Coast character and distinct cultural flavours.

Recipe by Chef Mike Wain CHICK PEA FRIES INGREDIENTS 1/2 yellow onion 1 shallot finely diced 1 clove minced garlic 1 tbsp herb mix (parsley and thyme) 4.5 cups gram flour 3L water Salt and pepper to taste

MIXT LOBBY LOUNGE (Inside the Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel) 15269 104th Ave, Surrey TEL: 604.587.6127

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DIRECTIONS 1. Saute onions, garlic and shallots on low heat until softened 2. Add water, herb mix, salt and pepper and bring to a boil 3. Lower heat to simmer and slowly whisk in gram flour until smooth 4. Pour mixture into one half sheet pan that has been lined with cling film 5. Let stand 8 hours, cut and serve CURRY AIOLI INGREDIENTS 1/3 cup oil 1/3 jar red thai curry paste 1/4 cup curry powder 1/4cup honey 1L mayonnaise 2 limes (juiced) DIRECTIONS Saute curry paste in oil on low heat for 5 minutes Add curry powder and cook for additional 5 minutes Add honey and let cool Add mayonnaise, lime juice and mix thoroughly

100% PURE VEGETARIAN

prabufoods.com AVAILABLE IN SELECT

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na M

ck/Tja

ersto

utt (c) Sh

ANOTHER DIET? Healthier choices for our senses

by Madhvika Singh

B

etween juggling a million things, our ability to prioritize food and make healthier choices can take a back seat for a lot of us, pushing us towards fad diets that we hope will work wonders.

There are many factors that determine our food choices – taste, cost, availability, and time. Let’s not forget social factors like going out for a drink after work with friends or grabbing a beer at the game which undoubtedly comes with food comas. "Just one more French fry won’t hurt," you tell yourself – am I right? At times they are so subtle that we barely notice their impact on our own health.

Positive choices we make can have a significant impact on our wellbeing.

These are some practical examples that might work for you: • Aim for herbal tea instead of soda pop;

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• • •

•

Keep a small bag of apples or easy-to-peel oranges at your desk instead of chocolate bars for that late afternoon pickme-up; Keep nuts and water handy in your car console can help you avoid a calorie-laden drivethrough snack on your way home from work; Replace processed sandwich meat with actual meat you cooked the night before, or even canned tuna with no salt added; Replace that bag of chips with carrot and celery sticks; Swap out your ranch dressing for olive oil and cracked pepper, or hummus; Opt for whole grain toast with organic peanut butter instead of a muffin which is full of sugar and saturated fats; We all love our double doubles but try to cut down the sugar

AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

you consume in your coffee.

Being mindful when grocery shopping is also essential. Using a grocery list helps curb the impulse buying and stroll down the junk food aisle. Visual reminders like starting a vegetable garden, keeping an herbal bouquet in kitchen, buying local at farmer’s market are more ways to aid lifestyle changes.

Weight loss can be complex process and can be discouraging if it does not happen right away, pushing us back to our old eating habits. Beyond food, we can apply the same principles to everything we ingest – including the words we hear, the things we see, the smells we smell, and the thoughts we let in. Making “healthier” choices for all our senses initiates our journey towards living a more conscious life.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Madhvika was raised in India and currently lives in San Francisco Bay Area. Madhvika has a background in Ayurved and Health Policy, with a passion for culture, gardening and writing.

HOT SPOT

3020 152 Street, Surrey (778) 294-9885 NEW LOCATION #201, 7500 120 St, Surrey (604) 580-4236 www.showshaa.ca

S eco nd Lo cati o n N ow O p en

Offers a fully stocked bar and bar area, lounge, patio, dining, and private dining area.

Open for lunch 11:30 a.m. to 2: 30 p.m.

Three most popular menu items: Sizzlers, Tandoori-Creole Shrimp, Drunken Chicken Bowl Showshaa is a trendy new taproom located in South Surrey which aspires to boost Vancouver’s food-scene with a much-needed dose of freshness and creativity. Known for their Bollywood-inspired décor and deliciously prepared food by award-winning Chef Bikram, Showshaa offers upscale Indian street food that is designed for sharing, plus a full delectable menu that will surely tantalize the tastebuds.

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RECIPES

CHOCOLATE BERRY BLISS Smoothie Bowl

T

his Chocolate Berry Bliss Smoothie Bowl recipe is one of my summer-time favourites.

It is packed with immuneboosting and cleansing ingredients – like spinach and berries – and nourishes you to the core! The recipe is quick, easy and adaptable to meet your personal and dietary preferences! A perfect way to start off your morning!

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INGREDIENTS 1/2 cup water or plant based milk 1 cup organic baby spinach 1/2 avocado or 1 medium sized banana 1 organic apple 1 cup fresh or frozen organic berries 1 tbsp raw cacao powder 1-2 tbsp nuts or hemp hearts Optional 1 tbsp plant based protein powder 2 tablespoons nut butter

AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

INSTRUCTIONS Add all ingredients into your blender in the order listed and blend.

Pour into a bowl, top with your favourite superfoods like cacao nibs, seeds, nuts and granola and enjoy!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Jasmine Garcha is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist and founder of HolisticJazz.ca, a platform dedicated to creating awareness about chronic health conditions, mental illness, food intolerances and holistic wellness.

HOT SPOT

APNA CHAAT HOUSE Indian Street Food

#112 - 7500 120th Street, Surrey (604) 502-8081

www.apnachaathouse.ca

Three most popular menu items: Keema Pav, Chicken Lollipop, Sev Puri If street food is what you are looking for, Apna Chaat is the place to be; offering the best of Indian street food under one roof, be it Paneer Corn & Capsicum Pizza, Kheema Pizza, Noodle Burger, Chicken Pakora, Veg. Hot Dog, Pav Bhaji, Tava Pulao, Poha, Tava Tikki, Dabeli, Veg./Chicken Momo's, Kheema Pav, Golgappas, Vada Pav, Bhel Puri, Papdi Chaat, Samosa Chaat, Kathi Rolls, Chow Mein. Try the Brownies with Ice-cream, Cold Coffee with Ice-cream, Indian Chinese and much more.

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CHAKRI Recipe by: Rasoimenu.com

The perfect Diwali snack, these hot ‘n spicy pinwheels are a family favourite and the perfect crunchy snack.

Pair with a sweet wine to counter balance the spice and add an extra layer to the palette.

INGREDIENTS 1 cup rice flour ½ cup maida flour 1 stick (4 oz butter) 1 tablespoon ginger and green chili paste 1 teaspoon salt 1 ¼ teaspoon red chili powder 1 ½ teaspoon sesame seeds 1 ½ cups buttermilk (use as needed) ¼ teaspoon turmeric 2 cup oil for frying Required: Chakri maker, parchment or foil paper, paper towels

INSTRUCTIONS 1. In a mixing bowl combine butter, ginger and green chili paste, salt, red chili powder, turmeric and sesame seeds.

2. Add the rice flour and maida flour. Mix together and pour the buttermilk as needed to knead a soft yet firm dough. Keep aside.

3. Using a chakri maker, turn the handle-like lever counter-clockwise to open a cylinder-shaped internal compartment. Fill with chakri dough, close it clockwise and rotate the lever to pipe out spiral-shaped chakri’s onto 4-inch squares of parchment paper. Tip: when you complete a spiral, stop the flow of dough from the chakri maker by turning the lever slightly counter-clockwise.

Use the star shape mould to create the optimal shape.

4. Heat oil to medium high. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small portion of dough into the hot oil – if it immediately comes to the surface without changing colour, the oil is ready.

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AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

Wild Goose – Reisling $17.99, BC Liquor Stores

HOT SPOT

1018 Commercial Drive, Vancouver (604) 336-1111

www.bombaykitchenbar.com Lunch Buffet All you can eat $12.95 7 Days a week - 11:30 am to 3:00 pm Open 7 Days a week 11:30 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.

Delivery Hours: 5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Free delivery for minimum order of $40 within 2 km radius.

Offers a fully stocked bar and bar area, lounge, patio, dining.

Popular Items: Kuku Paka, Lamb Kalya, Kadahi Chicken, Chilli Chicken, Prawn Zanzibar, Goa Fish, Curry, Goat Curry, Chicken Methi, Lamb Tikka, Murch Malai Tikka, Garlic Tandoori Fish, Tandoori Prawns, Tofu Tikka, Daal Tarka, Eggplant Bhartha, Saag Tofu, Tofu Tikka Masala

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DEBUNKING VEGANISM

The Myths and Facts by Jasmine Garcha

T

he number of persons identifying as vegan is on the rise. Celebrities such as talk show host Ellen DeGeneres and actor Toby Maguire, athletes such as tennis star Venus Williams and NBA player Kyrie Irving, and singers such as Ariana Grande and Miley Cyrus all observe a vegan diet.

The terms ‘vegan’ and ‘plant-based’ are often used interchangeably. For some

WHAT IS A VEGAN DIET? The most common vegan dishes include the following: • Fruits and vegetables • Lentil and dals • Dates • Oatmeal • Orange juice • Peanut butter • Popcorn • Tofu • Hummus • Stir-fried vegetables • Frozen fruit desserts deeply invested in the vegan culture, veganism is defined as a way of living that attempts to exclude all forms of animal exploitation and cruelty, be it for food, clothing or any other 66

purpose. However, for most following a pure vegan diet, it means they do not consume dairy products such as butter, milk or yogurt; no animal product such as eggs, honey, shellfish or meats; and no animal by-products such as gelatin, chewing gum, vitamin supplements and various types of candy.

By definition, vegans are individuals who choose to avoid consuming animal products for either ethical, health or environmental reasons - or a combination of the three.

WHY CHOOSE A VEGAN DIET? ETHICAL Ethical vegans strongly believe that all creatures have the right to life and freedom. They deplore the small pens and cages in which many factory farmed animals spend their life. (c) Shutterstock/Magdanatka

HEALTH According to the Arthritis Foundation, maintaining a vegan diet is known to reduce inflammation in the body and is linked to increased energy. Followers may also wish to avoid side effects linked to antibiotics and hormones used in modern animal farming.

ENVIRONMENTAL The meat production industry has a major impact on climate. According to the David Suzuki Foundation, livestock production accounts for 70 per cent of all agricultural land use, occupies 30 per cent of the planet’s land surface and is

AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

responsible for 18 per cent of greenhouse gases such as methane and nitrous oxide.

DEBUNKING VEGAN-ISM MYTHS FIGHT DISEASE Diet is one aspect of obtaining optimal health. However, there are various other aspect to consider like ones past diet/ lifestyle history and genetics. Vegans like all others can be subject to health conditions.

WEIGHT LOSS While a vegan diet can be a healthier choice, it is only one part of an overall plan for optimal health. Other areas such as physical and mental wellness also need to be addressed.

PLANT-BASED surely, a rainbow-colored, whole food plant-based diet provides many nutrients, but it does not provide all nutrients required by the human body.

Obtaining maximal health benefits from a plant-based diet requires supplementation of various nutrients and should really be consulted through a nutritionist.

Whatever diet you choose to follow, it is important to ensure that your diet is rich whole, unprocessed, high-quality plant and/or animal-based foods for optimal health…and that you actually enjoy what you eat or it won’t last long, resulting in fluctuating body weight.

So, is a vegan diet right for you? It really all depends on your individual body needs!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Jasmine Garcha is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist and founder of HolisticJazz.ca, a platform dedicated to creating awareness about chronic health conditions, mental illness, food intolerances and holistic wellness.

THINKING OF FOLLOWING A PLANT-BASED DIET?

(c) Shutterstock/Eli_Oz

PROS: 1. High in anti-inflammatory foods such as antioxidants, phytonutrients, essential vitamins such as vitamin C, E and A, trace minerals, electrolytes and essential fatty acids.

2. High fiber diet helps prevent cravings, overeating, lowers your risk of constipation, digestive problems and reduces your risk of high cholesterol, heart disease and diabetes.

3. Plant-based diet contains more enzymes, vitamins and minerals Improves energy levels and alkalizes body.

4. Can reverse certain health conditions by reducing inflammation.

5. Consuming a plant-based diet can make it easier to get enough pre and probiotics to maintain a healthy gut environment.

6. A plant-based diet tends to contain fresh produce, often in its raw form which allows for the higher intake of antioxidants and enzymes; 7.Less impact on the environment as eating plant-based foods take fewer natural resources to produce and reduces your carbon foot print.

CONS: 1. Not all vegan diets are healthy. New vegans may choose a lot of processed foods, high in oils, trans fats, sugars and added salts.

2. A vegan diet long term. There is less benefit received from rich vitamin B12, zinc and certain other nutrients in your diet from consuming a vegan diet, requiring proper supplementation.

3. It is also difficult to get the proper amount of amino acids from a vegan diet which can lead to protein deficiency.

As such, proper food combining is essential.

4. Higher intake of antinutrients like phytic acid which are present in grains, beans and legumes. These inhibitors can block digestive enzymes and cause digestive upset. However, soaking and sprouting your grains and legumes can greatly reduce phytic acid.

Overconsumption of carbohydrates can cause candida and yeast overgrowth, along with weight gain. It is important to strike a balance with the consumption of carbohydrates and hidden sugars when following a vegan diet.

(c) http://pluspng.com

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3 WINES TO CELEBRATE THE FALL SEASON

by Daniel J. Joseph

B

ritish Columbia is home to award-winning wine regions from Vancouver Island to the Okanagan Valley and Kootenays. As the weather starts to cool and the leaves start to change colour, so do the options for wine varietals – it’s the time to indulge in full-bodied whites and light to medium-bodied reds to complement the cooler weather and fall harvest, heartier food options.

Celebrate BC wines this fall season from oaked chardonnays, viogniers and sparkling wines to pinot noirs, cabernet francs and merlots. Here are three top picks for autumn: 1. DIRTY LAUNDRY VINEYARD MERLOT Described as a “classic example of a BC Merlot,” this wine is aged in French and American oak for 18 months and is 100 per cent Merlot.

Once you open the bottle and pour the wine, you are treated to a bold red colour and aromas of lush dark fruits, such as black plum and blackberries, with a savory finish.

Dirty Laundry’s Merlot has won a few awards, including ‘Bronze – All Canadian Wine Championships’ and ‘Bronze – National Wine

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Awards of Canada.’ Recently, BC Wine Trends named this Merlot as one of its top 10 wines for transitioning into fall.

This fall season, pair a bottle of Merlot with rich pasta dishes featuring meatballs and Italian sausage; roasted vegetables; and grilled or roasted meats from chicken and turkey to duck and lamb chops.

2. QUAILS’ GATE WINERYCHARDONNAY Crafted in stainless steel to “maintain the bright, fresh, vivid fruit notes” and kept in older oak to add “subtle oak influences,” Quails’ Gate Chardonnay is the perfect white for the fall season with its good intensity and texture along with mouth-watering acidity.

No stranger to awards, Quails’ Gate Chardonnay has received a number of accolades, including ‘Silver Medal – National Wine Awards of Canada,’ ‘Silver Medal – Chardonnay Du Monde,’ and ‘Silver Medal – Lieutenant Governor’s Awards for Excellence.’

Pour a glass of this Chardonnay and enjoy with diverse dishes from lemon roasted chicken and salmon, crab cakes to risotto

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with vegetables, and creamy butternut squash soup.

3. SANDHILL WINES CABERNET FRANC Known for its single vineyard philosophy, Sandhill Wines’ Cabernet Franc is a beautiful garnet colour with medium body and moderate acidity with hints of juicy ripe fruits, such as red currant and pomegranate, accented by tea leaves and spice.

Created in the Sandhill Estate Vineyard nestled against a mountain, “this one-of-a-kind microclimate results in a very expressive, classic Cabernet Franc.” Sandhill Wines has received a number of awards over the years and was named ‘Wine Access’ Canadian Winery of the Year” out of 157 wineries that entered the competition.

This Cabernet Franc, aged in American and French oak barrels for 13 months, pairs well with a pot roast with root vegetables; grilled Portobello mushroom; and lamb chops, peppercorn steak and beef brisket.

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REAL TALK

YOU HYPOCRITE So, here’s the thing...why do people preach the gospel but don’t practice what they preach? by Junita Thakorlal

M

an, people are such hypocrites. It irks me to no end when someone points out how I crossed the line but don’t live by their own words.

I know someone who is pretty well known in the community and runs in influential circles. He claims deep knowledge of the holy scriptures, meditates to Tibetan singing bowl music, and hosts events to raise Phot o: AJ

Stu dio s, O ut f it: Pa rv

Is this the path of righteousness?

Or is his behavior based by his own insecurities? Because based on what I read in Rehat Maryada Section XVI in the Code of Sikh Conduct and Conventions, he is full of shit. I don’t claim to have all the answers or be righteous myself, but he does and therein lies the hypocrisy. If he was truly sincere, he would lead with love and respect instead of taking jabs at every opportunity…at everyone.

Mo

orop siya T asta : An del

ova

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Let’s bring this closer to home.

ai, hJ

Whether you agree or not with the couple, many protesters stated that it was disrespectful to God and that the couple should be ashamed.

In this particular case, many of the protesters were Sikh but did not follow the edicts of their own religion, themselves either being womanizers, smokers, non-veg, social drinkers, drug users, and the like. Meaning, they were being self-righteous hypocrites. Is it the public’s duty to call out these fakes who hide behind their culture and religion, who claim to be pious with their holier than thou attitude? Or do we turn a blind eye and let them continue to bully

right? Well, he has blown through tens of women and makes midnight booty calls, is quick to judge and makes assumptions, swears and gossips about others, and is trigger-happy with intellectual insults without listening to the full story.

es

A friend of mine shared a story about a couple who had a traditional Sikh wedding ceremony in a New York gurdwara. They sat on a riser during the ceremony thinking it was a better view for their guests, which it was, but still well below the Guru Granth Sahib.

Well, the story went viral – there was major backlash which paralleled the tables and chairs debate where fundamentalists interpreted the scriptures as everyone should sit on the floor, and moderates believed that we needed to adjust to the times in which we are living.

others with their hypocrisy?

awareness of Sikhi for the purpose of raising the consciousness of society by understanding and living by the tenets of Sikhism, the 5th largest religion in the world. Seems too good to be true

AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

There will be many crossroads in life where we have to choose our path. Those guided by the light will choose positivity, love and truth which is exactly what Sikhism teaches. Everyone else will choose versions of hate, negativity, propaganda and fear because it’s easier to blame someone else than to take the responsibility of giving a damn.

In this classic case of “do as I say and not as I do”, where exactly do you stand?

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Horoscope ARIES You feel the need to be independent and self-aware throughout your conversations and debates. As a result, the romance factor will increase as your mind focuses on deep spiritual truths. Sometimes, you have to close one door for another door to open. As the Scorpio Sun hits the cycle of Mars, your energies are heightened on every level - psychologically, philosophically, intellectually, financially and sexually.

LIBRA You are truly on center stage as extra opportunities and luck come your way! It’s a great time to start new creative projects and move forward with your financial plan. The energy boost will continue giving you momentum until through November with people coming out of the woodwork to support you. Everything you touch will metaphorically turn to gold.

TAURUS Workload and stress have increased but keep a lookout for opportunities of career advancement.

Health and romance sectors are going great which is why you can focus your energy on developing relationships and projects with co-workers and superiors. The 27th of October brings illumination and clarity to some personal issue. Watch that you don’t let the surge of scorpion energy throw you off-balance.

SCORPIO You feel like a bubbling volcano ready to erupt as Libra’s planetary energy blocks your clarity.

Irritability and tension are heightened so be careful what you say. Engage in mental and physical exercise to help ease the pressure. November will bring Mars into your sign which only happens every 2 years, giving you a relentless focused determination.

GEMINI This is a happy season for you! You have a chance to work on romance, creativity and pleasurable pursuits including home décor or renovation projects or entertaining friends. In November, you will be more involved with the details of your work, forcing an increased communication.

Watch for power struggles as Pluto, the planet of power, dances opposite your Sun in Gemini.

SAGITTARIUS Now is the time to begin a new project or lead a group activity. Jupiter, your guardian angel planet, is now in Libra so people will come out in droves to support you. Review and revise your life to prepare for new growth of the coming year. Mercury, the planet of communication, extends its retrograde for you until January 10 making it easy to delegate/solve issued.

CANCER Home is a lively place to be. With numerous visitors or renovations/building projects under way, your attention will be diverted to the home front this season taking on responsibility and strengthening of the family bond. You will let your guard down and be able to express yourself emotionally. With Saturn retrograding on November 8th, you’ll have ample opportunity to create those internal structures that truly support who you are.

CAPRICORN Your career or public image is receiving a lot of universal energy. Time to further define and reassess what you want. As the Lord of Karma backtracks in your partnership house, take a long hard look at the quality of your relationships, both personal and business and if they are pulling their weight. This is a great time to set boundaries.

LEO In true Leo form, you have a need to express yourself and be appreciated by others. Examine your personal values, watch how much you are drawn to things of beauty, and how much you spend on retail therapy. By November, you may find yourself re-evaluating your relationships and career projects more realistically. Look for a physical outlet for the intense, powerful energy of Mars, the planet of desire and action, in Scorpio.

AQUARIUS A lot of planetary energy is activating the area in your chart that involves higher education and philosophical ideas either by way of study or travel to foreign lands. It’s time to express your uniqueness, originality and inventiveness in your job and move beyond all restrictions to eliminate what’s not working.

VIRGO You’ll be using your inborn talent to meticulously analyze your finances, your ability to make money, and your self-worth. Financial opportunities may arise but guard against overspending. A much-needed break is required to help you collect your thoughts. Watch how you communicate as your words may be taken out of context, causing conflict from November 30 – December 20 during the Mercury retrograde.

PISCES Your ruling planet Neptune turns direct in October, it is a spiritual time for you where you draw inward. You will analyze every relationship, encounter, and issue as you come into your own creative reawakening. Whatever you give up or lose will be replaced by a rare cosmic gift, your independence – something to treasure forever.

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Say no to boring in-flight drinks with the Carry On Cocktail Kit, which comes with everything you need to mix two proper Old Fashioned Cocktails at 30,000 feet. Simply order a mini-bottle of bourbon, and use the custom combination bar spoon/ muddler to mix in the included cane sugar and small-batch bitters.

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(c) Minerva Studio/shutterstock (c) Shutterstock/Ivanko

Being prepared for an

UNEXPECTED BREAKDOWN

S

o, I’m about to sit back, kick off my shoes and enjoy a nice glass of wine when the phone rang.

“Hey dad, I’m stuck and don’t know what to do. My rear tire looks flat and I don’t think it’s safe to drive. I am late for work and left it in the car park.

Can you please come and fix it?”

My initial reaction was to ensure my child was safe. Then, I quickly headed out to assess the car. I realized that the tire was punctured and thankfully was a relatively quick fix. But when I opened the trunk, I was shocked to find that there was no jack, no tools to change the wheel, and no spare tire!

All modern vehicles are equipped with new technologies, and weight and cost savings mean that vehicles may not come with basic articles such as spare tires. What this means for consumers is that dealers can charge extortionate service charges or can expect to pay high membership fees for automobile assistance, unless your vehicle has a push-button connection to a recovery

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by Gursh Nijjar

service, often reserved for luxury cars.

figure out your next steps.

With the cold weather settling in, here are some things you can do to ensure that you are prepared for winter breakdowns:

SNOW BRUSH/SPADE If you get stuck on a snowy road, you can use the spade to dig yourself out.

Removing all the excess snow off of your vehicle will give you two benefits: Visibility, making it safe for you and others on the road; Extra weight of the snow can make your car heavier, burning extra gas and making it less efficient for driving.

TIRES Most vehicles come installed with M & S (mud & snow) tires. These will help to get you through the season unless you plan to travel to higher ground where winter tires or chains are legally required for safety reasons. RFT (Run Flat Tires) are now becoming more popular as manufacturers try to save trunk space. However, they cannot be repaired and must be replaced through your dealership or specialized tire centre.

JUMPER CABLES Ever mistakenly left a light on, or left your vehicle in the driveway for a few months and it won’t start? The result is most likely a drained battery. Carrying cables in your trunk will allow you to at least get your car started so you can

AAARZU MAGAZINE | Fall 2019| AAARZUMAGAZINE.COM

EMERGENCY KIT If you happen to get stranded and are waiting for help, turn to your homemade emergency kit which includes a blanket, simple snacks like granola bars and nuts, and water.

Failing all the above, you could do what my child did: have a ‘go to solution’ where one call solves all – call Dad ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Gursh has been passionate about cars since he was 11 years old, having worked in the auto industry in England and Canada for 30 years. He currently works with Hare Motors..

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Full range of Dental services Exceptional Dental care in a calm environment

THE GRAND TAJ BANQUET HALL

LOOKING TO HOST AN EVENT, CELEBRATE A MILESTONE OR PLAN A WEDDING? GRAND TAJ BANQUET IS THE PERFRECT VENUE TO TURN YOUR GRAND MOMENTS INTO BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES. WE PROVIDE SPECIAL CUISINE AND FULFILL ALL OTHER NEEDS TO MAKE YOUR EVENT A SUCCESS.

Morning, Evening & Weekend Appointments Available!

W W W. D R D H A N J U . C O M - VISIT US AT OUR TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS -

Upto 1,000 guests in 2 halls | Offsite Catering Available RICHMOND SURREY Richmond Centre

Newton Crossing

(North Wing, Near the Bay)

(Next to Wings restaurant)

T: 604-599-4342 1-877-999-9915 Dental Clinic | TOLL FREE: Dental Centre #1946, 6060 Minoru Blvd.STREET 7126 King George 8388 128 SURREY BC Blvd.

604.276.2442 604.591.8999 WWW.GRA NDTAJ.COM | EMAIL: INFO@GRANDTAJ.COM

VANCOUVER GUILDFORD HOTEL

Discover a distinctive hotel experience Distinguished as the largest convention hotel in Eastern Vancouver and impressing guests with all-suite accommodations, thoughtful service and cutting-edge amenities, Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel is a one-of-a-kind destination. Sleep soundly in our Sheraton Signature Bed, connect with complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and take in spectacular mountain, river and city views from your hotel suite. Renowned for its daily breakfast buffet and delicious weekend brunch, MiXT Restaurant and Lounge is also open for lunch and dinner, tempting diners with a taste of Pacific Northwest cuisine.

Offering 29,000 square feet of flexible venue space, perfect for meetings, weddings and special events in Surrey.

For more information, contact our sales department: 604-587-6125 - sales@sheratonguilford.com Learn more at sheratonguildford.com 15269 104 Ave, Surrey, BC V3R 1N5, Canada