AV 29th August 2015 by Asian Business Publications Ltd

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Vol 44 | Issue 17

29th to 4th September August 2015

Let noble thoughts come to us from every side

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Anti-reservation ghost haunts Gujarat NEASDEN TEMPLE CELEBRATES 20 YEARS

Mitul Paniker The protest by Patels and other communities in Gujarat has turned violent and as we go to print, at least 8 people have lost their lives. Destruction to the State owned properties run in huge amount. Major cities and towns are under strict surveillance of security forces. These are very sad times for Gujarat and India. Gujarat Patel youths recently approached the government, petitioning for Other Backward Class status for their community to get reservation in government jobs and education. They knocked doors of every politically influenced leader; appealed with BJP big shots like Amit Shah, trying to influence them to deliv-

er their claims. However, nobody with a hold entertained the community leaders and, their demands never got any support, least an affirmation, from the state government. Not taking rejection well, they took to public demonstrations and fearless rallies promoting their demands. The movement, supported

by the Sardar Patel Sevadal, launched the political career of 22 year old Hardik Patel, a virtual nobody who rose and became the face of what is now the biggest protest in the Indian west. He started the Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS), an apolitical organisation. Ruling party BJP sweated, is

this the birth of a new profound opposition? They asked. Several other Patidar communities participated in the protests, all battling internal politics. Demonstrations and agitation started from Mehsana on July 6, and Gujaratis witnessed turf wars between Patidar communities, as Sardar Patel Group leader Lalji was visibly unenthusiastic by Hardik Patel’s nerve. Protests were conducted in Mansa, Visnagar, Vijapur, Lunavada and other parts of the region. The August 17 rally in Surat,

STUDENTS CELEBRATE GCSE RESULTS ACROSS THE UK

particularly caught the media’s eye as an estimate of half million Patels came down to the streets. Latching on to community emotions, Hardik gave fiery speeches saying, “A Patidar student with 90 per cent marks does not get admission in an MBBS course, while SC/ST or OBC students get it with 45 per cent.” He flaunted his ‘56 inch chest,’ saying he will press ahead with their stir till the goal is achieved. Chief Minister Anandiben Patel reasoned it wasn’t possible to give reservations as Supreme Court

guidelines bar states from reserving more than 50 per cent seats in government recruitments. Also, if the Patels were included in the OBC list, eligible for 27 per cent quota, the OBCs will revolt for shrunken space. Either ways, the situation was destined to explode in the government’s face. Despite government’s tactics to settle them down, the Patels, under young Hardik’s leadership, stayed strong and undeterred, planning for a major rally for the 25 of Augustthe Maha Kranti Rally. CONTINUED ON P 26

ONE ONE with Keith Vaz, MP

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Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

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Nilesh Manani

date? Param Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj is far away the most influential person away from the children. His humility is infectious because really, leadership at any level is all about humility.

Nilesh came to the United Kingdom as a refugee of the Ugandan exodus of 1972. He went to school in Edinburgh and is a graduate of the University of London and Institute of Education. He is the member of the Executive Council of Independent Schools Association. As the founding Headmaster of The Swaminarayan Senior School, he has been instrumental in guiding it to one of the best performing secondary school in the country. He credits its success to leadership through humility. He firmly believes it is the key influence to any successful venture and strives to spread its value in all facets of life. He is the founder of Inspire Students and authored several books on the subject, including Inspirations. 1) What is your current position? I am currently the Headmaster in the school with specific responsibility for the Senior School and administration of the entire school. 2)What are your proudest achievements? My proudest achievement are of course my children; helping to make the Swaminarayan

6)What is the best aspect about your current role? To witness the success of the children you have nurtured, watched grow, mature and strive.

School one of the best in the country; and the books I have written: The Kingdom of Birds and Inspirations. 3) What inspires you? The written word is a huge inspiration, I get up for it very early everyday - whether it’s something I have to write or I am reading – it always lifts my spirit and motivation hugely.

4) What has been the biggest obstacle in your career? Inability to make the final decision for the School.

Commandments. Number one was you should start a company!” She also believes that in order to survive in the market, you ought to advance and expand. She said, “You can't stay static. You evolve with the market or you die.”

run-of-the-mill, UK-only thing. We were going for a United States of Europe approach. I spent four years hitting the streets, from Prague to Bucharest to Dublin. I felt like I was preaching the Ten

For the first time, London has taken the top spot as the most congested city in Europe. It is said that drivers in London spend four whole days, which comes up to 96 hours, each year being stuck in the London traffic, which is nearly twice as long as the 52 hours Manchester drivers lose every year. Most congested cities by hours lost per year London zone 96 hours Greater Manchester 52 hours Merseyside 37 hours Greater Belfast 37 hours Greater Birmingham 37 hours Europe’s most congested countries Belgium 58 hours Netherlands 45 hours Germany 35 hours Luxembourg 32 hours Britain 30 hours

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Do the best I can do every day; support my family; continue to

The 37-year-old motherof-two, Seema Jaya Sharma, who became the face of a Cancer Research campaign in 2013, passed away on Friday 21st August 2015, after battling cancer for six years. She was an inspirational and vivacious singer and model. Sharma, from Ilford, was diagnosed with cancer in 2009, and received the all-clear three times. Her 17-year-old son, Kalvin, posted her last message on Facebook. The post was introduced by her 8-year-old daughter, Shanti, and received 7,600 likes. The post read, “My mum passed away today at 14:10 and she wrote this as her final status…she wanted her last words to be 'I got 21seconds to go!!! Hehe :P) This is me.. SEEMA Jaya Sharma. My son will keep you updated of when the funeral is etc and please come in bright colours coz you're not coming to mourn my death but to celebrate my life!! Please keep me alive through you good times and every time you laugh or smile and have fun, i'm right there having fun with u!!! YAY!!! Don't cry for me argentina….the truth is that i didn't even know where u are on the map!!

Congested London

8) What are your long term goals?

write; be physically fit in old age; continue to help children and make a positive contribution to society. 9) If you were Prime Minister, what one aspect would you change? Remove the control of our education system from the politicians and set up a separate independent body to oversee policy, strategy and management. 10) If you were marooned on a desert island, which historical figure would you like to spend your time with and why? Bhagawan Swaminarayan – Born in 1781, he was one of the great insightful reformers of India and transformed the lives of millions in his time. I would have loved to pick his brain about the direction of modern India, the problems in the world and pick his brain about after-life.

Seema Jaya Sharma's last message, "Peace out people!"

5)Who has been the biggest influence on your career to

Seedcamp boosting start-ups Seedcamp, Europe's oldest start-up accelerators, co-founded by Reshma Sohoni in 2007. After eight years of establishing the organisation, Seedcamp has helped companies to raise £180 million. The organisation has offered training to 1,200 start-ups across 13,500 teaching sessions. Reshma Sohoni said, “We centred on London because it’s the strongest capital. I never wanted Seedcamp to be another

7) And the worst? Dealing with adults who are inflexible and not looking ahead to see what is possible for school such as ours.

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Geography was never my strong point!! :S. Anyway this is me saying 'peace out people' if a bird poos on ur head, that's just me saying 'yo man' and if i really like u then i might just come haunt you to create ur own kinda bird poo innit!!! hehe!! LOVE YOU!!!

TANKOOOOOOOO :) xxx colourful clothes please!!! We're celebrating!!! WOOOHOOOO :) xxx”. Asian Voice had interviewed her last year and her optimism and vibrant spirit resonated through her words. Her buoyant, confident nature

Seema Jaya Sharma passed away after a 6-year cancer battle and will-power has MWAH :) xxx Oh theres inspired many people who gonna be a wake after too are battling cancer, as well (location will be conas motivated people to firmed) and I would prefer always strive in life, regardit if nobody goes to my less of whatever the cirhouse between now and cumstances may be. the funeral.

Nearly 2 million people misusing painkillers in UK

Newly released figures from the Office for National Statistics reveal how painkiller abuse in Britain is an extensive problem. The figures revealed nearly 2 million people misusing these medications in the UK. Neurologists have previously stated how these drugs are a prevalent cause of death among middle-aged and vulnerable young people. It is also increasing the number of addictions and overdoses.

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COMMENTS

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Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

PM’s Gulf visit: Wise strategic move Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was a wise strategic move, it tells of an Indian determination to circumvent the Pakistani trap, calibrated with Chinese connivance, to keep India pegged to the Subcontinent. By reaching out to the UAE and Iran, Mr Modi has put his country in a prime position to make significant choices on the regional chessboard, part, surely, of the unfolding Eurasian Great Game. The UAE is a very important player in a critical region for India. After the US, it is India’s largest export market, while the huge Indian diaspora there remits home $16 billion annually. India, for its part, is a potential market for UAE investments that could in time reach 1trillion dollars. Beyond trade and investment, which Mr Modi duly emphasized in his talks with his UAE hosts, he touched upon the terrorist threats which both states face. That is becoming amply clear to the Gulf monarchies faced with the looming spectre of the murderous Islamic State of Iraq, Syria and Lebanon (ISIL). Leaders in the UAE are now more aware that India could be a valuable partner in the maintenance of regional stability and economic progress against jihadi forces that are inimical to both goals. The fact that a Hindu temple can operate and flourish in these parts in a multicultural mosaic carries a robust message of hope for the future. The second major piece on the chessboard is Iran, with whom India wishes to craft longer-term economic and strategic relationship. With the easing of Western sanctions against Tehran, the route is now clear for India-Iranian commerce and investments to expand exponentially. Iran and India have shared concerns over the presence of Sunni jihadist groups in Afghanistan and Pakistan, whose activities pose a threat to the national interests of both Iran and India. Further afield, Iran can be India’s gateway to the states around the Caspian Sea, such as Kazakhstan and Armenia, and beyond to Russia, For this route to properly materialize, the Iran port of Chabahar will have to

become a railway hub to western Afghanistan and northwards to Central Asia. India has promised to invest heavily in the project and it is for Iran to clear the obstacles to getting the project going. Complementing Chabahar will be the port of Bandar Abbas, which, too, has to be developed as a platform for a good communications network to serve the commercial and strategic interests of both parties. Saudi Arabia and Israel are the two remaining states in this regional jigsaw. The Saudi monarchy is sensitive to the turbulence brought about by jihadi groups an intra-Islamic conflicts. The Saudis bear considerable responsibility for the terrible plight of nextdoor Yemen, now on the brink of famine, as it disintegrates into competing tribal entities. Saudi Arabia will have to start a dialogue with Shia Iran in its own national interest, as must Israel, sooner rather than later. With Israel, India has unique far-reaching defence ties, which extend through a web of cooperative endeavours in agriculture, water management and alignments in science and much else. A principal factor behind an increasing engagement between these countries and India, is the dawning realization of the disastrous impact of American and European Union policies that have contributed to a regional human catastrophe. Relying on the wisdom and competence of Washington and Brussels is fraught with risk. Finally, comes Pakistan, a source of terrorism and denial. The present political confusion in New Delhi on the best and most effective means of tackling this jihadi-promoting state is reflected in the columns of the Indian print media, compounded by the decibels emanating from TV anchors and their inchoate audiences. Pakistan, brazenly, is calling the shots: Hurriyat, Kashmir and much else has added to the witches brew. The Indian response makes confusion worse confounded. In a word, India still gropes in the dark for a Pakistan policy that makes sense – and, more importantly, one that works.

Sri Lankan elections bring glimmer of light Sri Lanka’s recent elections have returned the United National Party (UNP) leader Ranil Wickremesinghe to power as his country’s Prime Minister; it was also an emphatic defeat for the former President Mahinder Rajapakse, whose hardline policies towards the Tamil minority, not to speak of his authoritarian rule, made a permanent peace based on reconciliation almost impossible. The election of President Sirisena earlier this year broke the mould of Sri Lankan politics, heralding the return to the country’s best democratic traditions based on the unfettered rule of law. Mr Wickremesinghe’s success opens a period of seedtime and remedy. He has won the full support of the Tamil Alliance and other groups and thus has the mandate to initiate a dialogue to break the logjam in relations between the central government and the Tamil provincial authority in Jaffna. Mr

Wickremesinghe has the goodwill and support of India and other stakeholders in the country’s peace process. “Peace has its victories no less renowned than war” encapsulates the wisdom of the ages, so Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister must give peace a chance by displaying freedom from fear in resolving old animosities. Every venture carries some risk, but without risk there can be no gain. Taking Sri Lanka forward economically will also require a strong Indo-Sri Lankan relationship calculated to boost trade and investment and cooperation in every form of human endeavor. The window of opportunity for Sri Lanka after years of futility will surely lead to the sunlit uplands of internal peace and stability and the progress that comes thereof. The ball is now in Prime Minister Wickremesingh’s court. He must rise to the occasion and grasp the potential for change with both hands.

Sky the limit for enterprise In 1997, two brothers, Louis and Kuruvila George, blessed with a scientific temper, set up a makeshift lab in the cowshed at the rear of their ancestral home in Kochi, Kerala. Their decision arose from an unexpected order received for the delivery of an airborne antenna for India’s Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), the country’s first indigenous venture in aeronautics. They got down to work and made their product a year and a half later, which met with the approval of the vendor. The ALH project had taken off and the brothers were in business. Since then, their company Verdant Systems has been supplying cutting edge antenna and related equipment to India’s Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), Hindustan Aircraft Ltd (HAL) and Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL, to name a few of their top-of-the-line clients. Now, their product frequently comes back to India as part of an integrated system. Their principal clients are the Ministry of Defence in India, and foreign companies in the United States, Europe and Israel. The father of the duo was an engineer himself which certainly helped. The house was littered with journals such as “Popular Mechanics” and “Science Today.” At school the boys studied pure science, and subsequently Louis specialized in Composites technology. However, Kuruvila was the “geek,”develop-

ing a sterling engine powered by an external heat source. His in Ham communications enabled him to chip in during disaster relief operations. To cut a long story short, the brothers’ first order opened the door to others. US-applied a sanctions regime against India after the Pokhran II nuclear weapon tests were designed to cripple India, but it brought the brothers a flood of orders and Verdant began to climb the heights. “We noted [this] and disproved the belief that the West is [inevitably] better,” said Louis. The brothers took another step forward by manufacturing products from start to finish, from materials available in the country. This transcended the familiar route of reverse engineering. “It is better to innovate,” says Kuruvila. The brothers thus began designing and modeling . Constant innovation is their motto. They select job seekers to their company from among candidates with a marked aptitude for out-of-the-box thinking. Brothers Louis and Kuruvila are now inundated with requests for design solutions in communication and navigation from companies facing design and engineering challengers. “The Make in India future is all about creating the right environment for technology to grow and an ecosystem to safeguard it, “ says Louis. And who should know better than they?

You've got to search for the hero inside yourself. Search for the secrets you hide. Search for the hero inside yourself - until you find the key to your life - 'Search For The Hero' by M People

Youth, We Turn To You... “Always we hear the cry from teenagers, ‘what can we do, where can we go?’ “My answer is this: go home, mow the lawn, wash the windows, learn to cook, build a raft, get a job, visit the sick, study your lessons and after you’ve finished, read a book. Your town does not owe you recreational facilities and your parents do not owe you fun.” “The world does not owe you a living, you owe the world something. You owe it your time, energy and talent so that no one will be at war, in sickness and lonely again. In other words grow up, stop being a cry baby, get out of your dream world and develop a backbone not a wishbone. Start behaving like a responsible person. You are important and you are needed. It’s too late to sit around and wait for somebody to do something someday. Someday is now and that somebody is you!” It’s the summer holidays and a college principal offered those words from a judge who regularly deals with youth. And as Sardar Patel, India's first Deputy Prime Minister said at Indian Independence, ‘The future belongs to the youth, but education without character is of no value’. As you read about GCSE results and A'levels – remember this: I thought it was some achievement to get straight As....yeah this girl Malala got straight As...and the Nobel Peace Prize....hmm...some kids! Even when I was at school...always the immigrant kids going one step further and making the rest of us look ordinary. Just imagine if there was like a country filled with immigrants, I wonder if they'd end up being like the biggest most powerful economy and country in the world...oh wait...there is...it's called America. What is it with immigrants with their hunger and desire to excel and work hard and drive? Next thing you know they'll be risking their lives in little boats with their children and families - like swarming the country. Too much drive. Don't want any more of them making native privately educated kids birthright of straight As looking mediocre. Gotta stop them. Send em back...tell em we are full. We ain't got the dosh....gave it to a load of bankers...now that's who we need more of...bankers...Cos banking, that's really hard to get right...evidently. Ohhhh....and she had half her face blown off. I don't begrudge little Johnny and Little Jane getting their straight As from the straight A factory that is private education...but seriously...if they don't win the Noble Peace Prize as well....I'm just "meh" Whilst all that was going on, I found myself cc'd on an email chain which started off commemorating Indian Independence, and soon degenerated into attacks on Hindus, Sikhs – what the hell is wrong with people over a certain age? So the battle-cry of the faithful youth this summer should be: we are not only more industrious, but younger than you, cleverer, more industrious, more connected, more networked, more resourceful and we come in legions. We are a confident people. Our time has come. We will earn our rightful dues and respect.

Asian Voice is published by ASIAN BUSINESS PUBLICATIONS LTD Karma Yoga House, 12 Hoxton Market, (Off Coronet Street) London N1 6HW. Tel: 020 7749 4080 • Fax: 020 7749 4081 Email: aveditorial@abplgroup.com Website: www.abplgroup.com © Asian Business Publications

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Challenging 'body shaming' prejudices in Britain AsianVoiceNews

Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

Rupanjana Dutta

Earlier this month in a campaign, women were taking photos of themselves with cakes on social media to give body shaming trolls a piece of their mind. The hashtag #CakewithCahmerette was created after a blogger was told she should 'eat less cake' by a complete stranger. Body shaming or fat shaming for children, teenagers or adults is not exclusive to the cyber world. Among Asians, commenting on people's sizes, especially in social events, is almost a way of greeting each other. According to the Good Childhood Report 2015, a research project conducted by Children’s Society, a charity, and the University of York, examining the experiences of 53,000 children aged between 10 and 12 across 15 countries, found that children in England were particularly dissatisfied with their appearance, with girls most unhappy with how they looked. Among adults, the average woman in the UK is 5 feet 3 inches tall, weighs 11 stones (70.2kg) and wears size 16, it is often considered as a 'not acceptable' size for a 'single woman' looking for a groom or in the look out for a steady relationship. Suchira Ray, a 32 year successful lawyer in London, feels that size is still a major criterion for some men, looking to date. 5 feet tall, an attractive girl, who wears size 12-14 dress, is considered 'plump' among her peers. Single and looking for a steady partner, she has witSuchira Ray nessed that men generally like slimmer women as opposed to regular size. “I am not saying men do not like my look. But on average I would say that men steer towards the thinner and glamorous women.” A. Mohan, a 35 year old IT Manager from North told Asian Voice, “I am a bit heavily built, and have often noticed that women chatting with me on date sites, once they meet, tend to drop me like a hot potato. Women do prefer men who look like models over someone who is smart and

In Brief

well settled like me.” As Britons mainly women battle size related concepts of beauty in our society, UK nutritionists, doctors and fitness instructors are warning us of increasing rate of obesity among Asians, though they emphasise that body or fat shaming does not help obese people to lose weight. While obesity rates in the UK are actually the highest in Europe, with an excess of 20% of the population now obese and costs to the UK economy exceeding £5 billion per year, according to a recent research by Cancer Research UK Health Behaviour Centre at University College London (UCL), discrimination against overweight or obese people, does not help them lose weight. In fact being harassed or treated with disrespect, receiving poor service while shopping or being thought of as stupid may actually lead to more weight gain, the researchers have found. Saira Ahmed, then a size 18-20, had a long standing history of weight issues. She faced bullies that hit her self confidence immensely. “I was bullied from a young age at high school for being overweight, especially in my teens as I carried majority of weight around my stomach area, in my late teens I worked in retail and often people would think I was pregnant. It affected my self esteem and confidence in a big way until I took charge of my health and life in my early 20's.” Moreover constant feeling of exhaustion led Saira to turn to caffeinated drinks for a quick energy fix, but with this she developed type-2 diabetes. She started an intensive gym programme and focussed on her nutrition but she felt that she was still experiencing digestive issues and knew that something wasn’t right. To make matters worse, Saira was faced with a wake-up call when her mother was diagnosed with head and neck cancer. It was then that Saira carried out her own research into gut health and came across Brenda Watson the world renowned digestive care expert and founder of digestive health company, Renew Life. “I was so intrigued by what Brenda was saying about the importance of doing a regular cleanse to eliminate toxic build up in the body, that I decided to give Renew Life’s

Sufi maestro Sain is coming to Brum

BIRMINGHAM

Sain Zahoor, the world-renowned Sufi musician, is to perform at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall next month. Singing into his threestringed ‘Tumbi’, Zahoor, pictured, will be accompanied by a five-piece ensemble of flute, harmonium, table and dhol drums. Born and raised in a rural peasant family, Zahoor performed for decades and honed his craft at holy shrines in his native Ojara Sain Zahoor district of Pakistan. Now 78, Zahoor started singing at the age of 5 and left home when he was 10. He roamed the Sufi shrines of Sindh, Punjab, making a living through singing kalams. Sacred scriptures of Islam, kalams are sung with passion and power intended to give the listener an opportunity to experience the mysteries of God. Richard Hawley, Head of Artistic Programming at the Symphony Hall, said seeing Zahoor perform “will be

CleanseSMART gramme a go.” After the 30-day cleansing programme, Saira noticed the effects immediately. Now a size 8-10, Saira has b e e n

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Saira after losing weight (left) and before

inspired to lead a healthier lifestyle and promotes the programme widely. Kim Pearson, a leading BANT Nutritionist and member of the Complementary & Healthcare Council told Asian Voice, “Asians are genetically more prone to diabetes and cardiovascular disease due to visceral fat and atherosclerosis - a build up of fatty plaque on the artery walls. A person may not have a high BMI but if they have a tendency to gain weight around the middle, this can still be unhealthy despite a normal overall body

an incredible experience, not only for existing fans, but also for new audiences.” Award-winning Sain Zahoor will be performing at Symphony Hall on Wednesday 30th September from 8.30pm. For more information visit www.thsh.co.uk/event/sain-zahoor

Amputee fixes prosthetic foot at local DIY store

DEVON Dave Parr, a 45-year-old amputee from Devon, was faced with a £7,000 bill, as well as a three-month waiting period on the NHS to replace broken foot on his prosthetic limb. However, he managed to get it fixed for free within 20 minutes at a DIY shop. After a car crash, Parr had his left leg amputated above the knee. He has been using the prosthetic leg and foot for the past ten years. He got it privately, hence, the NHS refused to repair it for him and there was a long wait for a new one. He was unable to afford the price for the replacement so he decided to go to a local store to buy tools to fix the foot.

Man arrested for alleged child exploitation in Rotherham

MANCHESTER Basharat Hussain (38), was arrested at Manchester Airport, in connection with alleged child exploitation in Rotherham, which includes rape and gross indecency towards a child. It has been further alleged that these offences took place between 1996 and 2001.

weight.” How to tackle it? Kim said, balanced food rich in fresh, natural, unrefined and unprocessed food, eaten at regular intervals and pure water are the best way achieve long term health and a happy weight. One must ensure to have protein rich food. Asians who are vegetarian it's essential that those who cut out meat and fish get optimal amounts of protein from other sources. Vegetables and low sugar fruits are an important source of essential nutrients. One must also avoid sugar, sugary foods and refined carbohydrates “Try a Cleanse: Our body naturally tries to eliminate toxins, but overexposure to chemicals and toxins in the air we breathe, water, food, personal care products, cleaning products and medications can slow down or even damage our body’s elimination system leading to toxic overload. “The good news is that by making a few simple changes to your daily life, you can limit your exposure to toxins and help support your body’s natural detoxification processes.”

Illegal immigrants to face six months jail

BRITAIN Ministers will be announcing that Illegal immigrants who come to work in the UK will be facing six months in prison. Instead of being taken to a detention centre, illegal immigrants will be processed through courts before being jailed. Taxi firms, late-night takeaways, off-licences, curry houses and other restaurants will also be closed if they employ illegal immigrants.

More children stay on with foster families

BRITAIN It is said that more than 2,300 children staying with foster families have taken up the “staying put” scheme. This allows them to choose whether they would like to remain in care until the age of 21, or choose to live independently. Ten times more children are now staying with their foster family even after the age of 18. Children and families minister, Edward Timpson said, “Supporting young people to remain with their family until they're ready to leave will give them the same opportunities as their friends.”

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Sex offences on trains and stations have risen

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British Transport Police (BTP) figures suggest that the number of recorded sexual offences on trains and at train stations has risen 25% to a record level. In England, Scotland and Wales, BTP recorded 1,399 sexual offences in 2014-15, up by 282 from the previous year. The recorded violent crimes have also increased to 9,149 (up by 8%). However, the overall crime has fallen for the 11th year in a row. The Project Guardian campaign was launched in 2013, after a survey suggested that 90% of sexual attacks on public transport went unreported. The campaign was launched with the aim of reducing sexual assaults, as well as unwanted sexual behaviour on London's public transport. BTP have said that the rise in the

In April 2015, the campaign “Report It to Stop It” was launched to tackle sexual assault on the London Underground. Deputy Chief Constable, Adrian Hanstock said, “It is worth noting that the chances of being a victim of any crime are small. The use of more officers patrolling late-night trains and at peak periods, as Sexual offences on trains and at train stations well as our extensive CCTV has risen 25% to a record level network, is helping to halt this stats of sex crimes is mainly because of rise.” He added, “While it is encouragthe campaign, which has encouraged ing to compare our current level of people to report such incidents. performance to last year and note There are also officers who patrol these improvements, the outcome is in normal clothes on London's transeven more remarkable when you port network to spot offenders and reflect on the progress made over the prevent crimes. last 11 years.”

Experts say e-cigarettes 95% less harmful than tobacco

Experts who put together a report for Public Health England found that e-cigarettes are 95% less harmful, compared to tobacco. It has also been suggested that e-cigarettes could be prescribed on the NHS in the future, to help people quit smoking. E-cigarettes have increasing become very popular and currently have 2.6 million adults using them in Britain. Although some health

campaigns are backing the findings, the British Medical Association has expressed their concerns. One of the authors of the report, Prof Ann McNeill from King's

College London, stated that e-cigarettes could be a “gamechanger” in public health. She said, “At the moment, 80,000 people [in England] die every year as a result of cigarette smoking. If everybody who was smoking switched to e-cigarettes that would reduce to about 4,000 deaths a year. That's the best estimate at the moment. It may well be

much, much lower than that.” Prof Kevin Fenton, director of health and wellbeing at Public Health England said, “E-cigarettes are not completely risk-free but when compared to smoking, evidence shows they carry just a fraction of the harm. The problem is people increasingly think they are at least as harmful and this may be keeping millions of smokers from quitting.”

In Brief

Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

Driver receives littering fine after throwing parking fine out of the window

South Wales A motorist was given a £60 penalty charge notice for breaching parking regulations in Ammanford, South Wales. He was promptly fined another £75 for throwing his parking ticket out of his window, which was reported to the council by a witness. The additional £75 fixed penalty notice was issued to him for the littering offence

Former army head warns Britain could have "blood on its hand" over Afghan translators.

Britain The former head of army, Lord Dannatt, has warned that if Afghan interpreters are killed by Taliban, Britain will have “blood on its hands”. Lord Dannatt also said that Britain has a “debt of honour” and a “moral obligation” towards them as they served alongside British forces. His comments were made during the escalating controversy regarding the British government's refusing to allow Afghan interpreters to return to the UK, also including one person who worked as a translator for Prime Minister, David cameron.

More graduates are taking up nongraduate jobs

Britain According to the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), 58.8% of graduates from UK universities are in non-graduate roles and said that these findings should be “a wake-up call”. Overqualified graduates are being employed in roles that do not require a degree. Peter Cheese, chief executive of the CIPD, the professional body for human resources managers said, “The assumption that we will transition to a more productive, higher-value, higher-skilled economy just by increasing the conveyor belt of graduates is proven to be flawed.” Reports found that this was leading to adverse consecution, such as employers seeking graduates for non-graduate roles, even though there will be no change to the skills required for the role. This has led to graduates taking up non-graduates roles where graduate skills are not needed.

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Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

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What WHEF London Neasden Temple Celebrates 20 Years Conference is about?

A young boy holds a decorated oil lamp to the shrine of the Mandir. The doors open and the divine and resplendent murti of Bhagwan Swaminarayan is witnessed on the giant screen by those gathered inside the assembly hall – where the same child then appears holding the lamp to Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s image. The live figure of a boy and a montage of breath-taking video clips are melded to create the opening sequence for the 20th anniversary celebrations of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London. The grand festival was held at the Mandir in the presence of Sadguru Pujya Mahant S w a m i (Keshavjivan Swami), Sadguru Pujya Ishwarcharan Swami, Pujya Atmaswarup Swami and visiting sadhus from India on Saturday 22 August and again on Sunday 23 August 2015. Through creative three-dimensional projection mapping, innovative visual effects, and a series of inspiring video presentations and enlightening discourses, a large team of performers and crew brought to life the history, memories and future of London Mandir in a spectacular three-hour production. Ishwarcharan Swami first provided contextual history to the occasion by elaborating on Yogiji Maharaj’s vision from his visit to London in 1970. For it was Yogiji Maharaj who had prophesised that a great Mandir will be built in London.

Atmaswarup Swami and others continued the journey by recalling the tremendous sacrifice and devotion of thousands of worshippers and wellwishers during the planning and construction of the Mandir as well as honouring those who have continued to give their untiring support since its opening. A colourful musical stage performance revived the devotional vibrancy experienced during the Mandir Mahotsav in 1995 as part of the events leading to its open-

Swami Maharaj the inspirer of the Mandir was also fondly relived through a touching video compilation. A particularly poignant moment for the devotees was the blessings he sent for the celebrations from Sarangpur, India while he watched the programme live. A look towards the future became the focus thereafter. Mahant Swami reinforced messages of personal spirituality and unity that will become the foundation for devotees and volun-

The World Hindu Economic Forum seeks to bring together successful elements within Hindu Society such as traders, bankers, technocrats, investors, industrialists, businessmen, professionals, along with economists and thinkers, so they can share their business knowledge, experience, expertise and resources with each other. We also aim to encourage, support and mentor budding Hindu entrepreneurs. The end goal is to generate surplus wealth and make society prosperous. The world economy is passing through a turbulent phase, but there are great opportunities in some emerging markets. The issue is how to leverage the global situation for collective growth and a secure future. Hindus should cooperate and collaborate globally to facilitate business opportunities for their community. Market access across geographic zones and countries, spreading from Auckland to Alaska and Oslo to Johannesburg, cutting across the entire globe- needs to be promot-

ed. Similar cooperation is required with investment capital, ensuring its availability at an affordable price. Technologically savvy Hindus should be matched with those who can convert invention and innovation into business with ideas, funds and market access. Hindus understand how to create wealth and also share their business acumen and success with others. Our ancestors expressed their wisdom in the Vedas: “Sat Hasta Samahara, Sahastra Hasta Sankira”. It literally means “generate wealth with 100 hands and share it with 1000 hands”. We believe and practice Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam i.e. the whole world is my family. WHEF will work to help and support deprived communities around the world. It is a step towards “achieving sustainable economic advance” and eradicating hunger, poverty and illiteracy in the world. London is a leading global city, with strengths in commerce, education, finance, media, professional services, research and development, all con-

WHEF LONDON CIC COMMITMENTS:

l Assist, provide & support our youth with host accommodation in the UK. l Provide introductions and opportunities to engage with like-minded businesses & entrepreneurs. l India does matter and London looks forward to welcoming you all in September 2015. For more information please seehttp://www.wheflondon.com/register-forwhef-2015/

tributing to its prominence. It is one of the world’s leading financial centers and has the fifth largest metropolitan area GDP in the world. It is home to a thriving Hindu business community which has contributed significantly to the UK economy. This is a great opportunity for every businessperson to explore the European market, and network & collaborate with other business-people from around the world. 1 in 6 person in the world is a Hindu.

Late pregnancies should be supported

ing on 20 August. The culmination of the dances was an emotional recreation of the first arti in the Mandir in front of a panoramic backdrop of the shrines. Emotive testimonies by devotees and sadhus spoke of the profound impact of the Mandir on individuals, families and the community over the past 20 years. The wider impressions conveyed through local, national and international media were also shared. Memories that have been shared, heard and felt were captured through the thoughts of sadhus who have experienced its spirituality. The treasure trove of such memories of Pramukh

teers for the next 20 years and beyond. A vibrant finale dance was followed by a concluding prayer made on behalf of everyone by the young child who had earlier opened the evening’s festivities. The joyous occasion was brought to a close with the news that the iconic arch of Wembley Stadium had been illuminated in orange in honour of the Mandir’s 20th anniversary celebrations. As everyone departed, they were treated to a creative visual presentation projected onto the main steps of the Mandir, with the whole façade of the complex coming to life with colourful lighting effects.

Age is merely just a number and Laura Wade-Gery, executive director of Marks & Spencer has certainly proven so. She is expecting her first child at the age of 50. There seems to be a growing trend of women conceiving babies at an older age, prioritising in building a career first. The number of women who have aged 40 and above who are having a baby has increased fourfold in the past 3 decades, which accounts for one in 25

births. However, there are still a majority of women who are afraid of being pregnant at a later age. It could also be due to the culture and society which they belong to that makes them feel as though they ought to follow a set pattern in life. Most women may still prefer to have their children in their 20s as they may believe that they are more fertile at that age, rather than being in their 40s or 50s.

Anne Furedi, the chief executive of the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS), believes that women who opt to have a late pregnancy should be supported, not made to feel frightened. She said, “Women are often warned about the dangers of leaving it 'too late' to try for a family, and this data confirms that far from facing a fertility cliff-edge at age 35, women still have a good chance of conceiving.”

Laura Wade-Gery, executive director of M&S expecting first child at age 50

Deadly bacteria found in old make-up

A safety warning was issued after scientists at London Metropolitan University tested out-ofdate and in date make-up products and found that it contained deadly bacteria. The scientists had tested five products. The blusher, foundation, lipstick and mascara were out of date,

while the lip gloss was still in date. They had found enterococcis faecalis in the products, which is a main cause for meningitis. They also found eubacterium, which causes bacterial vaginosis and aeromonas;

staphylyoccocus epidermidis, a bug which is resistant to antibiotics; propionibacterium, a main cause of acne and other skin conditions; and enterobacter, the cause of urinary and respiratory tract infections.

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In Brief Teenager suffers unprovoked racist attack near Canary Wharf AsianVoiceNews

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In an unprovoked racist attack, a teenager has suffered a permanent nerve damage after a bottle was smashed into his face on Saturday at Isle of Dogs, in the borough of Tower Hamlets, very close to Canary Wharf- the financial hub of London City. The Evening Standard described that the attack happened in the late evening, when a boy out with his friends, riding a bike, came out of the Greenwich foot tunnel, and stopped near the junction of Mast House Terrace, and waited for his other friends who were lagging behind, to catch up with him. As they stopped, a group of about five men and two women, all described as white and between 18 and 20 years of age, were standing across the road and started shouting abuse, including racist comments. One of the group had a knife and one a whisky bottle, and they approached the friends and tried to pull one of them off his bike. The friends tried to escape, running into Spindrift Avenue towards Mudchute station to get away, but the group of thugs chased after them, caught up with the victim between the junctions of Telegraph Place and Barnsdale Avenue, and then brutally smashed him in the face with it. The teenager fell backwards to the floor and a second man kicked him while he lay helpless on the ground.

Three hatchback cars - one black, one green, one silver -pulled up, and the two attackers jumped inside and fled the scene. The victim and one of his friends managed to stagger back to Westferry Road, where they flagged down police officers, who found him drenched in blood from a deep slash to his left cheek.

He was taken by the London Ambulance Service to the Royal London Hospital, where he underwent surgery and spent three days in hospital. Investigating officer Detective Constable Alan Henderson, from Limehouse CID, reportedly said: "This was an entirely unprovoked attack on the victim who was simply enjoying an evening out with friends. "It is believed the suspects had been drinking and took the opportunity to not only hurl racist abuse but then attack the victim. He suffered a

Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

significant facial injury and has been left with permanent nerve damage. "We would ask any witnesses or anyone with information to please come forward." According to Scotland Yard, the total number of racist and religious hate crimes across London rose by almost 28 per cent last year, from 9,965 reported incidents to 12,749. Crimes listed as anti-Semitic were up 138 per cent from 208 to 495. Anita Priya, who lives around Westferry Road for past 5 years told Asian Voice, "I have lived here for sometime. I have never witnessed such attacks on Westferry road before. My daughter is now two years old. And I have a bought a house down the road. I am now worried, this may even happen to us. My husband comes home from work quite late, every day. The police needs to act quickly. Fear is growing amongst us non-white residents." Ashok Ganesan, who lived in Isle of Dogs for two years before moving to Snaresbrook told Asian Voice, "I have lived there, while working in Canary Wharf. We never felt threatened, even in the middle of the night. There are so many Asians living around. But this kind of unprovoked attack has raised questions in our minds about our safety around the area. We are law abiding people and racism is not an acceptable behaviour in this society. I hope police can trace the perpetrators down quickly."

Rich couples four times more likely to marry than the poor

BRITAIN According to new figures from an analysis by the Marriage Foundation, fewer couples from poorer backgrounds are getting married than at any time since the 1970s, while marriages are on a rise among wealthier couples. The new data shows “an alarming widening of the marriage gap between rich and poor”, as wealthier couples are four times more likely to tie the knot, compared to couples from poorer backgrounds.

NHS staff could face jail for undeclared freebies

BRITAIN In a massive clampdown on corruption in the NHS, all GP groups and hospitals will be forced to keep a register of all free items from pharmaceutical firms to staff. If senior medical staff do not declare all the hospitality and gifts that they receive from drug companies, they could be sacked or jailed.

81-year-old assaulted Muslim man dies

ROTHERHAM

81-year-old Mushin Ahmed, of Rotherham, has died after spending 11 days in intensive care after he was attacked on his way to the mosque to attend morning prayers. Ahmed was attacked on 10th August, at 5:25am by Damien Hunt (29), and Kieran Rice (21). They will be appearing at Sheffield crown court on 28th August, charged with assault with intent. Mushin Ahmed had four children and 12 grandchildren.

Duke of Cambridge's tribute to the Queen

BRITAIN Prince William has paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, for the “example and continuity” provided by her throughout her reign. While writing the preface to a new biography of his grandmother, the Duke of Cambridge says that he is “privileged to have the Queen as a model for a life of service to the public”.

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Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

What Patels want in India? As I See It

On Tuesday morning Ashis Ray, one of the senior most Indian journalists based in London asked me, "Are Patels now anti-Modi?" It's a straight forward question and the simple answer is No. Before I discuss about the demands of Patels of Gujarat let me say clearly, dialogue, and not death and destruction is the solution. Horrible things are happening in Ahmedabad and other cities and towns in Gujarat. A very large public meeting of possibly a million mainly young people, was very peaceful and disciplined. In his speech Hardik Patel was, as far as I know, expressed the concerns of the young Patels about education, career and job opportunities. Ahmedabad, in the recent past has not experienced such a huge gathering which dispersed almost peacefully. Somehow for whatever reasons, Hardik Patel was detained. In this age of social media, within no time the news spread through out Gujarat and other parts of India. Despicable acts of vandalism and perhaps over reaction from the police is making me extremely worried. By now 5 people have lost their lives including one policeman. One father and son travelling on their bike in Ahmedabad became victims of police bullet. Government property, buses and other premises have been destroyed. Whatever may be the grievances, and whatever may be the limitations of the people in power, dialogue is the only solution. I would have preferred to write about what is Anamat (reservation). What are the demands of the Patidar Anamat Andolan Samitee (PAAS), a campaign to remove the disadvantages of those not included in the reservation quota. Who and how many are Patels? Patel is a global diaspora. How many in the UK? What are their views? What is the reservation itself? There are several

other allied issues but it is only possible to write about them in the forthcoming editions of Asian voice.

Hardik Patel Reservation itself is a very complex and complicated issue, bothering India for the last 60 odd years. It is also important to remember that the present agitation by PAAS, is strongly supported by other castes like Brahmins, Khastriyas, Vaniks, Lohanas and Sindhis who have a large number living in Gujarat since migration from Sindh, during partition. So the present agitation is not of Patels alone. Other castes who feel that they are deprived have joined PAAS. During the freedom struggle, Gandhiji was concerned about the age old discrimination, deprivation and exploitation of the Dalits all over India. Untouchability is sadly not confined within Hindu communities. It is there, as it was before, within the followers of other faiths, including Muslims, Sikhs, Christians et all. During the Constitution Assembly deliberation, discussions took place for some provision to enable Dalits to have a level playing field. At one stage it was not the caste, but the emphasis was on the socio economic criteria. By 1950 the constitution was amended and everybody knows that Babasaheb Ambedkar, Sardar Patel and leading leaders helped to amend the constitution for a provision of reservation policy for 10 years. It was initially for Dalits. Scheduled castes and scheduled tribes were added. Every 10 year the Parliament

Memorandum to PM Modi The deadline for the Memorandum to Indian PM Narendra Modi is Monday 29th August. We have already got quite a few suggestions/concerns from our some of the readers. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to send in your thoughts, if you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t already. Email aveditorial@abplgroup.com.

has renewed the provision. Over the period Mandal Commission report rather than solving the problem, added fuel to the fire. The politicians have no compunction to use any opportunity to gain power and Mr V P Singh took full advantage. In Gujarat Bakshi Commission added a large number of castes and a new category developed called Other Backward Class. As of now Gujarat, reservation quota is 49%. Recently Jains, Gurjars and in some states Muslims have been added to the reservation. Patels and other castes mentioned above, especially younger generation are really upto their neck. I will repeat again, violence is not the way, but the long term or permanent solution is with Parliament and the Government in power. There are definitely several reasons to make special provisions for Dalits, or such communities or group of people who have been deprived of equal opportunities. But the caste based reservation itself is more of a hindrance than help. The ideal solution is to create a formula to eliminate the age old disadvantage based on socio-economic criteria as it has happened in several Western democracies for the removal of discrimination and create equal opportunities. Today I am genuinely very worried, not only because of my family name, but for India, the development path does not deserve such death, destruction or deviation. Let's all pray for peace and once the calm has prevailed, let the people in power (politicians, academicians, media and others) ponder the most appropriate way ahead. I must add that Patels and other communities which are protesting are as nationalist and loyal citizens of India as anyone else. Dialogue, not death and destruction is the solution. - CB

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An outward looking Labour Party Rajesh Agrawal Chairman and Chief Executive of RationalFX and Xendpay The Labour Party lost a huge number of votes from black, asian and minority ethnic communities at the last election. Nearly one million, including many longstanding supporters, abandoned Labour and voted Conservative. Many of those voters, like me, run their own businesses. In fact, some of the UK's very best business people and brightest entrepreneurs are ethnic minorities. In my view it was exactly by alienating those of us who run businesses that the Labour Party lost much of the critical minority community support on which it increasingly relies. This was avoidable and a significant failure that it must seek to correct in the years ahead. When I left India for Britain nearly 15 years ago, like many others I came in hope of a better life and for an opportunity to build a business in what was then a more dynamic economic environment. I did not however leave my social values behind. My Hindu upbringing and the strong sense of social justice my parents instilled in me as a child continues to shape both the way I do business and my approach to politics here in the UK. I am fortunate to have been successful in business. My companies RationalFX and Xendpay now employ over 100 people in the UK and enable many thousands to send money overseas cheaply and conveniently each week. Every day we help members of BAME communities send money to support their families in countries where there is simply not the same level of social security we are lucky to have here. I know very directly how critical these remittances can be to both recipient individuals and economies. I have supported the Labour party since I moved to the UK, because it has always been clear to me that the party is nearest to the values I was brought up with, but also because it recognises the need for a strong economy in which business can thrive and a fair society, with excellent public services, where the most vulnerable are are protected without external support. I have also come to see that the Labour party is the only party that really understands and embraces Britain's BAME communities, recognises the real value we bring to the UK and supports the pluralistic society in which we all now live. Never in my view has this been more important in our politics. I have therefore watched the current Labour leadership race with great interest. There are four strong candidates and I am pleased that there is a real debate about where Labour goes next. As I've said I certainly don't think the party got everything right in recent years. Having listened to what each candidate has had to say, it is my firm conclusion that Andy Burnham is the best candidate for the job. For me he is the one candidate that really understands the need to restore confidence in the business community and rebuild Labour's connection with BAME

voters. Burnham is the only candidate to have explicitly stated that his economic approach will look outward to build relationships with India and the rest of the world, embracing global talent, attracting foreign direct investment and championing British exports. I am also confident that Labour will look and sound different under a Burnham leadership. He has signalled that he will ensure more BAME candidates at every

Rajesh Agrawal level and that there will be a greater openness to business in party policy making. Importantly, Burnham recognises that BAME voters are not a simplistic bloc vote and that the Labour Party needs proper conversations to develop its understanding of and ability to represent those of us in minority communities if the trust that has too often been lost is to be rebuilt. Andy Burnham is also credible on the big issues for the next parliament: the economy, education and health and social care to name a few. He has a clear vision of a country in which everyone is able to get on â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a vision that stays true to Labour values but can also win back those aspirational voters who felt the need to vote Tory earlier this year. Crucially, I believe that Andy Burnham, and only Andy Burnham, can beat Jeremy Corbyn and ensure that the Labour Party remains on track to return to power as a truly representative voice. Andy, not Jeremy is willing to understand why almost one million people from the BAME community chose to vote Conservative and not Labour and win them back. And most certainly it is Andy not Jeremy who will restore the faith of those of us who run businesses. Andy Burnham's will be an outward looking Labour party. A party of power not simply protest. A party of the majority but which embraces all minorities. A party of unity not division. A party that can win in 2020 and a party worthy of all of our support.

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years in between I was a shy geek. I stuttered, wore free specs and I was unable to utter a word in public, but I loved to mess about, create mischief secretly I knew I was an actor. I had a box of toys that included an action man, Tonto (Lone Ranger's native American friend) and a Muhammad Ali boxing man, a few toy cars and an orange plastic Carol" when I speedboat they would all was 9 years old. sit in -that was my treasI also played a ure-I would create stories Canadian and adventures.” mountie when So how has Ajay's I was 6. I did a experience as a professionshort acting al actor and theatrical course director influenced the when I form and evolution of the w a s London Mela? 1 8 . “British theatre is all The about words. People stand 9 on stage and talk to each other. I won two awards for my directing work. Ajay Chhabra My shows were based on true-life experiences; one of gang murder and the other of old age. Despite this I always felt intimidated by the business of acting. When I turned 30, I was thinking about quitting as an actor and was on an Arts Council Directors Bursary with David Glass. But he inspired me to carry on. My father was a member of the Youth Congress party in pre partition

Ajay Chhabra, Innovative DirectorActor and London Mela Founder Ajay Chhabra is a British television and theatre actor, director and producer of Indo-Fijian heritage. He is known for playing Anil in the “Basil Brush Show,” the vicar in the BBC Radio series “the Archers,” and a defence barrister in “Holby City.”

Ajay is Artistic Director of Nutkhut and founder of the London Mela, Europe's largest South Asian festival. The London Mela is a free outdoor multi arts festival inspired by the culture and creativity of South Asia. Before turning professional he worked in the hotel and events sector. He studied Anthropology at Goldsmiths College, London University, Hospitality Management at Westminster Hotel School and the University of North London. He completed his training at the Austrian University of Innsbruck.

Ajay developed his own series, “Planet Ajay,” for the BBC, creating and playing four characters. In 1995 he made his West End debut in “Indian Ink” by Tom Stoppard. He read works by VS Naipaul and Salman Rushdie for BBC radio. “Come to Kochi,” an 8part series, w h i c h Chhabra presented from of Kerala, is now taught as part of t h e National Curriculum. We asked him to tell us about his background in theatre. “I played in "A Christmas

Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

India. He appeared at ralanyone or the politics of lies with Nehru and the day.” Gandhi and -dedicated He adds that audience himself to the mass exodus numbers can be tens of in August 1947. He cothousands. “The performcoordinated and helped ers do not have the luxury people to leave villages of doing it again as in a TV that were soon to become or recording studio. Pakistan. My mother was Everyone feels they have a third generation Indian god- given right to perform Fijian. on the main stage at peak I’ve created a niche. I time. We never book anycreate spectacular public one we haven't seen live and corporate events, before so we maintain which are derived from quality and an element of the client’s or audicompetition. ence’s own expeAs we reThe London invent Mela here riences. I’m always open to it'll have a ripMela says ideas. effect public space is ple The Mela across North free and would never America, have hapAustralia and belongs to all pened without wherever of us.” Ajay a friend and South Asians colleague have set up Chhabra Julian Rudd the home. The Mela Producer.” London Mela says Says Ajay; “We create public space is free and belongs to all of us.” new work, which we fund Ajay says there are raise for and support. We some great items on the created four new pieces, in agenda this year. circus, classical music, “For music it has got to street theatre and installabe Desi Reggae from Cold tion. The work has toured Fever – for performance it and been seen by audihas got to be French outences in the region of door specialists - Trans 100,000.” Express presenting Mobile Ajay feels that the Mela Homme, a collaboration was celebrating cultural with the Dhol Academy – a diversity long before the breathtaking pyrotechnic, term became fashionable. acrobatic, anarchic drum“It has inspired other ming orchestra which flies minority communities 60 feet above the audience. across the European It’ll take your breath Union. The Mela doesn't allow itself to be led by away.”

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Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

Criminal penalties for giving bribes

The Indian government is introducing criminal penalties for companies that give bribes. The bill is to revise the corruption prevention law. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took office last year after his BJP swept to victory in a general election on promises that it would tackle the country's rampant corruption. US, UK and other developed countries are clamping down on their own companies' misconduct overseas. Mr Modi unfortunately is not getting support as much as required from the Congress party. Congress with just 44 seats is not comfortable and will never be, but Mr Modi will find a way namely to pass GST and Land bills. Bhupendra Dattani Watford

Those were the days Dinesh Sheth's letter entitled "Those were the days" and Bhupendrabhai's trip down the memory lane inspired me to air fond memories of my school too. Schooldays’ memories play great role in ones brown studies. I must appreciate role played by myMenengai High School in Nakuru. Education in English medium and discipline were core issues. My school also practiced many intangibles e.g. football, cricket/relevant sports, physical training, scouting, encouraging us to volunteer in community, civic/ social functions, inviting teachers from other schools/visiting sports men/speakers etc. Debates and clubs to encourage vernacular awareness were encouraged. Teachers were free with praises when any student displayed talent beyond classroom atmosphere. Entertainment was not forgotten as we were escorted to movies suitable for kids. Some films were projected in school. Annual variety show was popular as it allowed pupils to show off talents to their parents. Teachers were friendly with parents, especially if pupil was deemed to be weak in some subject or found misbehaving. Behind façade of ones status at present, lies strong foundation laid down by our schools. I salute my school and all those who worked positively to bring out the best in pupils. Ramesh Jhalla Via Email

Rivers of Blood

The current migrant crisis at our shores must remind us of the famous speech by Enoch Powell on 20 April 1968. In his speech he had criticised Commonwealth immigration that had been proposed in the UK when the exodus of Kenyan Asians began. He had then said “in this country in 15 or 20 years' time the black man will have the whip hand over the white man.” The prophecy now seems to be coming true with migrants from African and Mediterranean countries are entering illegally the UK in their droves. It is estimated that there are more than 300,000 illegal immigrants living in London alone! Last week, an amnesty for these illegal immigrants living “in the shadows” in London was proposed by one MP who said it was time to bring them into mainstream society so they could pay taxes and enjoy more secure lives. However, one wonders how safe would we be walking in the streets of London once these desperte people were allowed to remain here. Who would want them for their neighbours? Dinesh Sheth Newbury Park, Ilford

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LPOA becoming popular among Indian Community There was time when making Wills and especially granting “Lasting Power of Attorney” to family members was taboo subject. But we are now becoming more knowledgeable, socially, financially aware of our duties and obligations to family members. There are two types of LPOA, one dealing with financial matters (FM) and other for social and medical care. Most consider FM more important, so I will deal with it in this short letter, as we have just registered ours. Person granting LPOA is known as “Donor” and person or persons who you nominate to look after your FM as “Attorney”. We have to fill-in two types of documents, LPOA and “Notice of intention to apply for registration of LPOA. These are complicated documents of some 25 pages and requires fee of £130 to register with “Office of Public Guardian” which is compulsory to make it legal. However people on low income can pay less or are completely exempted, depending on circumstances. Normally husband appoints wife as “Attorney” and vice-versa. Many add their children as additional or Replacement Attorneys who can take over if the original Attorney dies or become mentally incapable. It is important to understand legal jargons, read notes carefully or employ solicitor. But on most part children who are IT wizards could fill in on line. It will make lives of your family members easier if you register LPOA while mentally capable to make decisions to avoid lengthy, costly court process to obtain same rights.

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Is HMRC soft on multinationals and the super rich? According to HMRC's own estimates, £34.5 billion was not collected in 2012-13. The reasons HMRC gave were as follows: Tax evasion, tax avoidance, hidden economy, legal interpretation, non-payment, failure to take reasonable care, criminal activity, and errors (FT BIG READ, HMRC, Aug 21, pp6). The FT article goes on to say that there was a widespread perception that HMRC is soft on the super rich and multinational companies. It gives as example the disclosure of thousands of account holders whose offshore assets were exposed in a February leak from HSBC's Swiss Unit to HMRC where only one was convicted. The article also refers to the most secretive tax havens - including British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands and Jersey, territories in which the Queen is head of state. Between 2011 and 2015, admin staff levels were reduced from 66,000 to 56,000. This was contrasted with the fact that revenue collected per each £ of admin cost went up from £135,000 in 2010-11 to £165,000 in 2014-15. But so what? My own experience as a government, industry and professional accountant for over 50 years and still practicing on a semi-retired basis is that it is not just a perception: it is a fact that HMRC is soft on multinational companies, large businesses and high net worth individuals. My recent success with a barrister's help in a tax tribunal case is further evidence. If one year's tax gap was £34.5 billion, 52 years' was £34.5 multiplied by 52. Surely actions speak louder than words is my message to HMRC and FT. Nagindas Khajuria Via Email

India’s 69th Independence Day On 15 August India celebrated the 69th Independence Day as planned by Modi Govt. Every Independence Day is a reminder that for a long time India was a subjugated country controlled by people foreign to India. Despite such a history of colonial control it is a great credit to India that it has established the biggest democracy in the whole world in such a short pace of time. But what is the right way forward? India being one of the most diverse societies in the world democracy is a must for India. However democracy alone is not and cannot be the answer to everything. The natural ingredient that makes a country strong and stable is the creation of a stable, peaceful, caring, fair, just and united society backed by a strong defence strategy. This is the element missing for the past 68 years of post-independent Indian history. Unemployment is the main source of social discontent and political tension. Since independence Indian population has almost quadrupled with average growth rate of about 22% while Muslims growing by over 33%. This is an unsustainable situation irrespective of political leadership and which party runs the country. Besides, fresh water supply is virtually constant and food production cannot commensurate population growth. It is time India introduced an education philosophy capable of addressing all these issues. Narendra Modi has made a good start. Will he succeed? Time will tell. Jatindra Saha Via email

The Glass is half full It was quite interesting to read Philip Barton's (Britsh High Commissioner to Pakistan) views under the Comments page (AV 15/08). I have a suggestion for Mr Barton - perhaps he can persuade the relevant authorities for England to start playing test cricket against Pakistan in Pakistan. This would go a long way to fill the glass and at the same time change the perception as to how Pakistan is viewed by the wider world. S Patel Via Email

Cutting remark Everyone here agrees that we should write shorter letters to let other readers have their say in Asian Voice. However, many readers’ letters continue to resemble wordy chapters from that extremely lengthy novel entitled “War and Peace”. Let me set an example. From now on my letters will be even briefer than this one! Rudy Otter By email

Kumudini Valambia Via Email

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Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

Students celebrate GCSE results across the UK Reshma Trilochun GCSE results are out and the grades reflect the outstanding effort pupils have put in to achieve this remarkable results. Although grades A* to C have risen to 69%, up from 68.8% in 2014, however, students attaining A* in their GCSEs is down by 0.1%. An analysis based on official Department for Education figures suggest that leading state schools are now performing better in A-levels, compared to private schools. The analysis results showed that England's top 500 state schools were beating the best 500 private schools. Tauheedul Islam Girls' High School, an Islamic comprehensive school in Blackburn, acquired outstanding results. 15% received A* and 45% were A* or A grade. There were two students who obtained 14 A* grades, while one received 11 A*s and three A grades. 89% achieved five or more GCSEs at A* to C grade. The principal of the school, Hamid Patel said, “Everyone associated with the school and the trust is delighted with the achievements of our GCSE students- their results are outstanding. It's a testament to the hard work of teachers, parents and of course the students themselves, who have been working tirelessly to achieve such brilliant results.” On the other hand, The

Malala Yousafzai's proud father tweets her GCSE results Many students in Britain are celebrating their GCSE success. This also includes the Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Malala Yousafzai (18). Her father, Ziauddin Yousafzai was so proud of his daughter that he couldn't help but share her results via Twitter. Maths GCSE: A* Maths IGCSE: A* Biology: A* Chemistry: A* Physics: A* Religious Studies: A* History: A Geography A English Language: A English Literature: A

Haberdashers' Aske's Boys' School, a private school based in Hertfordshire celebrated an incredible GCSE results, with 70% of all grades being an A*, and 99.3% being A*- B; a total of 92 boys acquired 10 A*/A grades. The school's Peter Headmaster, Hamilton, proudly beams, “The boys have relished in every challenge that the School can offer them, both academic and extracurricular. They should be rightly proud of their achievements this Students at Haberdashers' Aske's Boys' School; from left: year and I look forward Andrew Chronias, Iyon Rudran, Anish Rajpal & Khalil Ibrahim to welcoming every one of Buckingham said, “These Aske's Boys' School have had a of them back in September.” exams are designed for those number of students who successTwo such students who celewhom it is a second language, so fully passed their GCSE in a modbrated 10 A*s each are twins, those for whom it is their mother ern language. Vishal and Vignesh Sriram, who tongue are at a considerable This year, there has been a attend the Private King Edward's advantage.” remarkable rise in the number of School, Birmingham. The comWhile most 15-16 year olds students who have chosen ethnic petitive brothers said that their are celebrating their GCSE sucminority languages than modern “sibling rivalry” made them success, an outstanding 10-year-old languages. These ethnic minority ceed. boy, who recently joined Mensa languages include, Urdu, Vignesh aspires to be an engiis also celebrating his remarkable Mandarin, Polish and Arabic. neer, while Vishal wants to be a grade. The overall number of students doctor. Vignesh said that they did Bhunit Santhiramoulesan, who sat exams for these lannot revise together as they “would from Hertfordshire, obtained an guages were 33,043, a rise of have ended up playing games” A* in his maths GCSE. He said, 1,178 from last summer. instead. “I'm good at maths and there It is said that teachers and While there seems to be a wasn't much to do at my stage so parents are encouraging pupils national decline in students optI thought if I take a GCSE now it to take up one of these languages ing for modern languages as a will give me a better chance in as a GCSE subject. Professor GCSE subject, The Haberdashers' life.” Alan Smithers, of the University

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Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

Following the parliamentary logjam between the BJP-led government and the opposition Congress party, led by the mother-and- son duo of Sonia and Rahul Gandhi , the debate on the urgently needed General Services Tax bill was put off, yet again, bringing to a close Parliament’s Monsoon session amid scenes no civilized citizen of India would want repeated. Pictures on television shamed the country and called into question the workings of India’s much touted democracy. Any political is as god and as bad as the men and women who run it, and India’s politicians are possibly the worst in living memory. It would be unfair to point an accusing finger at Congress alone, the precedent in unruly behavior being set by the BJP when it was in opposition between 2004-14. The chickens came home roost when Congress repaid the BJP in similar coin – a case of Tweedledum versus Tweedledumber. The BJP had no conpunction to vote with the Communists to defeat the Indo-US nuclear power accord, against the national interest, with the goal of bringing down the government, whatever the cost. Back in government, the BJP has chosen to align itself with the same treaty and all its provisions. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley warned recently that repeated disruptions in Parliament could affect the Indian economy. He can do the country a favour by help rein in his party’s MPs. The non Congress opposition must do the same with Congress legislators. Both party leaderships must start draining hatred out their relations with one another, remembering that are elected to serve the country and its people above all else. Constructive, robust opposition in Parliament and outside must be the staple of India’s democracy, without the mayhem we have witnessed over the past weeks and days. There is urgent work of repair that needs to be done to the damaged public life of the nation (Times of India, Hindu, Business Line, Telegraph, Mint)

Gujarat clears Reliance deal

The Gujarat government has cleared the Anil Ambani-owned Reliance Infrastructure Ltd bid to take a 26 per cent stake in Pipavav Defence and Offshore Engineering Co Ltd. Officials of the State Maritime Board said “They can now go ahead with the open offer whenever they want.” Pipavav is a private Gujaratbased shipping company.

Infrastructure talks

Reliance Infrastructure is also in talks with the Gujarat government to build a 5,000-acre defence and aerospace facility in the State. A site at the Dholera Special Investment Region, which is coming up as a modern city in the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor has been offered to the company. “Reliance Infrastructure plans to invest Rs20,000 crore for the park that would create employment for 30,000 people . We are working out the modalities,” said an official (Mint August 19)

Vikramaditya refit

INS Vikramaditya, India’s largest aircraft carrier, is slated

INS Vikramaditya

to have its first refit at the beginning of next year at the Anil Ambani-owned Pipavav shipyard, according to reliable reports emanating from the Indian Navy. The same shipyard was selected earlier by a Russian shipyard for the refit of India’s EKM877 submarines. The potential for submarine refits is immense and the commensurate earnings huge, something in the region of Rs 30,000 crore. Pipavav is believed to have been selected by the United Shipbuilding Company of Russia for the manufacture of four Talwar class frigates for the Indian Navy (Times of India August 19)

IndiGo for 250 Airbus aircraft

IndiGo, India’s largest domestic carrier by market share has placed an order for 250 Airbus A30 planes worth $27 billion. It is the largest ever order made with the French-based company. IndiGo, India’s most consistently profitable domestic airline has ordered in all 530 aircraft from Airbus since 2005. The latest order IndiGo CEO, 40 year-old Aditya Ghosh has charted, is pazrt of the company’s growth trajectory for the next decade. The Indian aviation market is in exponential growth and IndiGo is aiming to stay ahead of the game (Times of India, Mint, August 19,20)

Foxcom, China partners in loop

Taiwanese electronics giant Foxcom is emerging as a key player in India’s manufacturing agenda. Foxcom subsidiary FIH Mobile has announced a $200 million investment in Jasper Infotech – the owner and operator of India’s rising online retail platform Snapdeal. Japan’s SoftBank and China’s Alibaba group are also part of the e-commerce venture, signaling Foxcom’s intent to join forces with mainland Chinese heavyweights to market world-class

consumer electronics in India. Foxcom has tied up with Xiaomi – the leading Chinese smartphone maker, which recently rolled out its Made in India (Andhra Pradesh) Redmi-2 Prime device. China’s excess capacity is tailor-made for the vast Indian market (Hindu August 20)

Lenovo arrives in Chennai

Chinese personal computer maker Lenovo Group Ltd said it had started smartphones at its Chennai facility early last week. The plant will have two dedicated lines to manufacture Lenovo and Motorola smartphones. Chen Xudong, Vice President Lenovo told an Indian business daily that “The Indian market is the most important outside China.” (Mint August 19)

HCLL, TCS in Forbes 100

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and Sun Pharma Industries are three Indian firms to have made it to Forbes 100 list of the world’s most innovative companies. Hindustan Unilever has been ranked 41, TCS 64 and Sun Pharma 71. Apropos of Hindustan Lever, Forbes said the company had over 35 brands spanning 20 distinct categories. India’s largest software firm TCS, with a market cap of $80.3 billion, has made the grade on this prestigious list for the eighth time. The company took a major step forward by bolstering its digital services through training programme in digital technology for a third of its workforce. It crossed another milestone, increasing the number of women employees to 100,000, a third of its total workforce, Forbes noted (Business Line August 21)

surface from its underground caverns. The Rajasthan River Basin and Water Resources Planning Authority Chairman, Sriram Vedrie, said the authority would coordinate the work of institutions like ISRO, the Central Ground Water Board, State Ground Water Board and the National Institute of Hydrology. (Business Line August 15)

Rajasthan freed of its shackles

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Shortly after Sheikh Mujib’s death in August 1975, two other military officers passed through London, boasting on Channel 4 TV that they were members of the assassination squad. US Ambassador to Bangladesh, Marcia Bernicat discussed the issue with the Bangladesh State Minister for Foreign Affairs Mohammed Shariar Alam. (Hindu August 15)

President Mukherjee’s wife cremated

President Pranab Mukherjee’s Not so long ago, Rajasthan had wife who died in hospital was 592 statutes and a bureaucratic cremated in Delhi, with only labyrinth; now under the dispenclose family members in attensation of Chief Minister dance, with Bangladesh Prime Vasundara Raje, the shackles have been largely removed with a drastic repeal of laws to a far more manageable 152. Fewer laws usually improve the transparency of the system, whether legal or administrative. Her BJP has clearly delivered on its promises, or at least enough of Sheikh Hasina with President Mukherjee at his wife’s funeral in Delhi them to ensure a clean sweep in the municipal Minister Sheikh Hasina also elections, with the Congress present. Sheikh Hasina flew party soundly trounced, Times over from Dhaka for the funeral. of India, August 18,21) She said she and her sister Rehana, who happened to be in Mujib’s assassin in Delhi at the time of her father’s US asylum assassination, were treated with unforgettable warmth and comThe United States has admitted passion by Mr Mukherjee, then that the assassin of Sheikh a junior minister in the Indira Mujibur Rahman, the founding Gandhi government, thereby father of Bangladesh in 1971 has establishing a lifelong bonding. been living in the country. Sheikh Hasina also related the Bangladesh Supreme Court senmany kindnesses she and her tenced Rashid Chowdhury to sister had received from Mrs death. Another convicted killer Gandhi in those terrible days, Moslem Uddin, is also in the US, when her parents and brothers but without being accorded asywere massacred in their home in lum status. Dhaka.

One rank, one pension

The agitation by retired officers and jawans of India’s armed forces on the slow implementation of this long delayed government undertaking is a poor reflection on the work practices in the corridors of power in Delhi. The more things change the more they remain the same, a famous Gallic aphorism. The powers that be shower encomia on the brave men and women who guard the nation’s borders, but when it comes to translating these sentiments into hard cash, they become unusually shy. Their own pockets are always well lubricated ( Print and Television media)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, left, meets with Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai ruler and UAE Prime Minister See comment page 3

ISRO in Saraswati search

The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is putting considerable scientific experience to join the search for the basin of the River Saraswati in Rajasthan, which figures in India’s ancient texts, with the possibility of bringing it to the

Modi in UAE mosque - See comment page 3

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Gurkha charity helps rebuild lives after Nepal earthquakes

The Gurkha Welfare Trust was established in 1969 to relieve poverty and distress among former Gurkha soldiers and their families in Nepal. For nearly 50 years, its focus has been to provide financial and medical support for elderly Gurkha veterans and widows who rely on the Trust for a secure old age. For those who are unable to live independently, it offers residential care. The Trust also delivers community aid to rural villages in Nepal, installing clean water and sanitation systems, building schools and running mobile medical camps. However, in 2015 – the year in which Gurkhas mark their 200th anniversary of service in the British Army – the charity has been embroiled in a disaster of tragic proportions. The series of earthquakes that began in April this year devastated the Gurkha homeland. Over 30,000 people were killed or injured while millions were displaced. The ex-Gurkha community did not escape the calamity, with over 2,100 of their homes damaged or destroyed. 13 veterans and widows lost their lives. With support from serving Gurkha soldiers despatched to Nepal, the Trust responded immediately to provide medical care and distribute emergency supplies such as food, utensils and shelter in isolated rural areas where aid was otherwise slow to arrive. One earthquake victim to receive the Trust’s help was Rifleman Shersing Gurung, a veteran of the Second World War whose wife sadly passed away last year. Since then, he has lived with his daughter’s family in Gorkha district, in the Himalayan foothills. Shersing was enlisted in October 1940 and fought as a Bren-gunner against the notorious Japanese forces in Burma. He recalls: “The war was very tough. We’d often

fight for many days with an empty stomach, surviving on two pieces of biscuit.” After demobilisation, he returned to his remote home village of Milim and a peaceful but unforgiving life of subsistence farming. For a fit adult, it takes two hours of trekking and four hours by vehicle along a seasonal dirt track to get to the Trust’s nearest Welfare Centre in Gorkha town. When the first earthquake struck on 25th April, Shersing was resting under the midday sun outside his home. He woke to find the ground shaking and heard walls collapsing around him but, now an old man of 97 years, he couldn’t find the strength to move. Fortunately his daughter arrived in time to drag him to safety and he survived. When the Trust’s patrol team visited him a few days later he was staying in a cattle shed; his home had been almost completely flattened. Shersing even remembers the last great quake of 1934 but assures us that this tremor was far more intense. “When I was a soldier I wasn’t afraid of dying, but this earthquake was terrifying.”

paulins and food. Shersing is now in a temporary shelter with his daughter and son-inlaw, close to the ruins of his home. His family is alive but he worries for their future. The assistance he receives from the Trust is more crucial now than ever before. Without it, he would have nothing. The monsoon rains have thus far prevented any long-term reconstruction work. However, one of the Trust’s priorities will be ensuring that veterans like Shersing have a safe, earthquake-resistant home in which to live. The Trust’s wider response will range from the rebuilding of damaged schools and water projects to enhanced health care, in particular the ability to reach out into the furthest corners of the country and treat people in their secluded village homes. Colonel William Shuttlewood OBE, Director of The Gurkha Welfare Trust, sums up its current ethos: “The Trust has an abiding commitment to Nepal, our home. We will do all that we can to support Gurkha veterans, their families and communities as they look to rebuild their lives following this unthinkable

The Trust’s mobile doctor checked his health condition and gave him necessary medication for his osteoarthritis; the previous prescription is still lost under several tons of rubble. He was also given emergency relief aid in the form of of cash, tar-

tragedy.” The Trust is a registered charity (No. 1103669) that relies on the generosity of the public to support its welfare and relief work. To help them, please visit gwt.org.uk/donate/earthquake.

Bride escapes Shoreham air crash

A limousine driver who was supposed to take a bride to her wedding was feared dead in the Shoreham air crash. The unnamed man was on his way to collect Rebecca Sheen to take her Rajendran to marry Asekaran when the Hawker Hunter fighter jet plunged on to the A27. The top half of the limousine was sheered off in the tragedy. Later, Mrs Asekaran’s father read of the tragedy on his mobile phone during the ceremony at The Findon Manor, which could have killed the bride too. After being unable to contact the driver, the bride and her bridesmaids were ferried to the ceremony by the photographer. As Mrs Asekaran arrived home at Goringby-Sea, West Sussex, she said. “My thoughts are with the families and we want to know how the driver is,” “We’re fine. The wedding wasn’t ruined. It was beautiful; it was lovely.”

Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

Empowering Donors. Supporting Charities. Help us change the world.

What is Asian Charity Clarity? When you donate money to charities, how do you know you are giving it to the most effective ones? If you are a charity, how do you stand out and best showcase the great work you do? Empowering Donors. Supporting Charities. That's what Asian Charity Clarity is all about. ACC have come up with a special rating system which assesses a charity across 18 metrics for Financial Health, Accountability and Transparency, and Accessibility. We have 110 charities on ACC right now, and will have around 500 in July. Every week, we will publish a Top 10 list looking at different aspects of Asian charities.

Top 5 Charity which are temples

When charities register at the Charities Commission (the regulator), they must specific what their Mission is - What they do, Who they will impact and How they operate. These are the Top 5 charities that say they are temples or do temple-based activities. We've listed their Overall Rating, which is a score out of 3. The higher the rating, the better it is. These ratings are based on just publicly available information which was last updated around 6 months ago. 1. The Community Of The Many Names Of God (Skanda Vale) - 2.22 out of 3 2. Sarjudas Foundation - 1.95 out of 3 3. Jain Samaj Europe - 1.77 out of 3 4. Shri Venkateswara (Balaji) Temple Of The United Kingdom- 1.68 out of 3 5. The Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (Birmingham) UK - 1.62 out of 3

www.asiancharityclarity.org.uk

TLIGHT

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Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

Sunetra Senior

Those who are truly talented seize the profession for themselves. Creator of London-Bridge based social media and branding company ‘Creative Nerds’- a consultancy expanded from the meagre measures of his attic – Dirujan does this and more. As we discussed the intimate relationship between his team and their clients, his focus on the human value in digital design, and some practical tips for other faring fire starters, we saw a reinvention of the whole landscape. Raw and imaginative, Diri ditches the one-track chase for profit, the tired textbook theories, and electrifies prospective businesses into new and buzzing life: “I got started creating ‘MySpace’ cover images for local bands” he explained. “It was just something I really Diri’s enjoyed doing”. By being direct himself, Diri brings the 3 step success focus back to the heart; connecting the right customer to programme the desired product. At 22 years old, Diri has not just 1. Always network: both online and offline. made the trade his own, he has actually made it over:

Dirujan Sabesan: A Brand of One's Own

You started off at the seedling age of 15. Tell us more? I found an interest in photoshop early on, making little banners and graphics for websites. Eventually, I started doing that for local musicians in my area. I actually messaged Tinchy Stryder’s managers to ask if I could get involved. It was a way of making pocket money so I wouldn’t have to hassle my mum. University never appealed to me just because I am more motivated by results you can see in real life. So I took the risky move of dropping out, fell into the work as social media manager with Jamal Edwards and SBTV soon after, and the connections just kept growing.

So would you say passion has got you this far? Yea, it’s really not a chore- it’s a hobby. I have my laptop with me wherever I go now, and my phone keeps me in contact with anything and everything that is going on within the business. You've got to sacrifice some personal time to make sure things run smoothly. What’s your client base like? I’ve got another leading brain on the team, Alfie, and together we work with two different clients: startups, who might just allocate a grand to customise a website, and others, including international clients, who want to re-brand everything.

group? We break apart the whole concept, and then the design stage comes in organically from there. We really tailor the whole experience so we are strongly and instinctively in line with their vision.

What’s a good example of design branding you’ve seen recently? 'ManVMachine’s’ innovative rebranding of ITV 2. There all these cool graphics in-between shows, where colour is also used in a quirky and stylish way. You have to stay tuned in to enjoy every possible combination.

Tell us about your experience on BBC’s Three’s ‘Be Your Own Boss’? It was just after I’d dropped out of uni and was the last thing I expected to happen. I felt a little out of place at first because I was only 19, but I soon got talking to the other mentors such as Tim Campbell who was the first Apprentice winner, it inspired me to push my business further and was fantastic to be surrounded by so many fellow young entrepreneurs. Name one common mistake companies make with social media? Not puttingthe customer first. You

Talk us through the ‘Creative Nerds’ process? We create a positive impact by thinking outside the box. We are on trend, with an awareness of youth culture. A lot of people want to reach that age bracket of under 30s, and would prefer the intimate approach that we are able to provide as opposed to working with a larger corporate agency. You have created original logos, from the groundbreaking 'SBTV' brand that is run by MBE Jamal Edwards to the 'Muscat Youth Summit' of Oman. What’s the common approach with all these? There’s always a research and discovery stage. We need to understand what the client wants: more press coverage? A younger age

'create conversations between the brand and consumer'

2. Look for grants and accelerator projects: For example, through Bethnal Green Ventures 3. Build a good team: investors like this.

need to create conversations between the brand and consumer to break the barriers and engage with them on a personal level. You need to understand the value of that. Some companies are all ‘sales, sales, sales’ and they don’t understand the importance of social credibility. It may not yield profit in the short time, but you have a wider reach into the future. As a brand you need to be able to relate to the consumers' lifestyle, for example when I was at SBTV it was all about making content relevant to the young people. For example, we found that comedy & off-topic but on-brand content worked really well.

Tell me about a current project? We’re revamping our website. It will be a lot slicker, reflecting the intelligence and forward thinking of our company.

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Uttoradhikaar goes to Edfringe

Rupanjana Dutta Uttoradhikaar (The Inheritance) is the story of a time of change that revolves around the DeCunha family estate and the disintegration of its once glorious past. Margarita DeCunha, Portuguese by descent and Goan by birth, struggles to save the estate amidst political turbulence as India and Portugal wrangle over Goa’s ownership. The play produced by Eastern Thespians will be showcased in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival from 28th to 31 August at Merchants Hall. I went to watch the play at the Chelsea Theatre on its opening night. Revolving around a complex theme of identity,

roots, allegiance, self-love, relationships, it switches between two eras- connected by similar problems of love, politics, betrayal, and patriotism. Written and directed by a very talented Dr Debasish Banerjee, the play focuses mostly on Margarita, the loss and pain she faces, torn between duties and her yearning for a perfect Portugese Goa. Chandrayee Sengupta as Margarita is eloquent and quite poignant. Other actors are worth noting too, though they do not get much scope to showcase their full talent. A bit longish in duration- it has all the right ingredients for a fine theatre rendition. If you are in Fringe, I encourage you to go and see this production.

V&A to exhibit fabric of India

Finally, what’s an emotional mantra that has kept you going? That I don’t want to work for anyone else; I like having a flexible, self determining job that challenges your mind and means you always think on your feet. W

www.creativenerds.org

twitter.com/creativenerdsuk

V&A is bringing an exhibition to explore the dynamic and multifaceted world of handmade textiles from India to celebrate the India Festival. The museum will be showcasing Lord Vishnu avatars on silk in its Fabric of India exhibition from October 3 to January 10. Dated around 1570, this display will include a Hindu narrative cloth in silk lamps weave, depicting avatars of Lord Vishnu. The exhibition also promises to showcase over 200 objects from the 3rd to the 21st century, including Tipu Sultan's spectacular 18th-century tent, a stunning range of historic costume, highly prized textiles for international trade and cutting-edge fashion by celebrated Indian designers.

It will be “the first exhibition to fully explore the incomparably rich world of handmade textiles from India”, presenting handmade objects including sacred temple hangings and some expressing religious devotion and examining how fabrics were used in spiritual life. “Sacred fabrics created for temples and shrines would employ the best of available materials and highest levels of craftsmanship,” Museum release says. Some fragments of this Indian fabric will be curated by Rosemary Crill and Divia Patel and designed by Gitta Geschwendtner. The Fabric of India brings together the best of the V&A's world-renowned collection alongside renowned masterworks displayed for the first time.

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SPECIAL

Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

SPECIAL

ZEE London Mela presents a h www.asian-voice.com

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Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

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Bollywood, British and Indi

The biggest festival of South Asian culture in Europe – ZEE London Mela is set to put the stage on fire with its fantastic line-up of entertainment. From Bollywood, to British to international singing stars plus favourite TV celebs and more – the ZEE London Mela has it all covered in this one spectacular day-out. This year’s ZEE London Mela, a celebration inspired by South Asian culture, takes place on 6th September in Gunnersbury Park. With plenty of artists making their main stage debuts and a new title sponsor, ZEE TV, this year’s festival is set to be bigger and better than ever before.

LIVE PERFORMANCES AT THE MAIN STAGE

Benny Dayal: Bollywood sensation Benny Dayal will be headlining this year’s ZEE London Mela main stage with his magnificent live band Funktuation. Discovered by the legendary A. R. Rahman, Benny Dayal will be performing for the second time in London this summer fresh from his barnstorming live show at the Royal Albert Hall, BBC Proms. Benny Dayal, as a stunning live artist guarantees to bring an energy like never before to the ZEE London Mela main stage. Raghav: Raghav Mathur was born in Toronto, Canada to Hindu parents from India. He is known professionally as Raghav, is an independent Canadian singer/songwriter. He has released three studio albums: the debut Storyteller in 2004, Identity in 2009 and The Phoenix in 2012. His most known commercial success was with “Angel Eyes” which peaked at number 7 in the UK in 2005. His singles “So Confused”, “Can’t Get Enough” and “It Can’t Be Right” also reached the UK top ten in 2004.

Imran Khan: Imran Khan is a Pakistani singer, songwriter, and record producer and is currently sat at the number one spot in the Asian download charts. He rose to fame in 2007 after the success of his first single “Ni Nachleh”. Imran Khan is on the way to release his second album in summer 2016, whose first single “Imaginary” was released in June 2015, a chart topping tune he is set to perform on the main stage at this year’s ZEE London Mela.

Arjun: London-based popular singer, songwriter and music producer Arjun will be performing at this year’s ZEE London Mela. Arjun has become known for his fusion of contemporary Western and Eastern sounds, combining soulful R&B with elements of South Asian music.This formula has made him a big hit with Asian youth across the globe. As a pioneer in the Hindi/R&B Fusion genre, Arjun has set the standard for other young Asian artists now following in his footsteps. Mumzy Stranger: Mumzy is a MC, singer-songwriter and record producer. He made his mainstream recording debut in the summer of 2009 with his debut single "One More Dance", which topped the UK Asian Charts, as did the follow-up singles, "Showgirl" and "Fly With Me". He is the first artist of Bangladeshi descent to have entered the mainstream music industry and is one of the latest prospects of British-Asian R&B artists in Britain.

Veena Parashar: Winner of two music based reality TV shows, versatile Bollywood singer Veena has bagged accolades from Amitabh Bachchan, Bappi Lahri, Ravi Khishan, Shekhar Suman, Raghu Ram and many other famous film and television personalities!

TV STARS

Popular stars from brand new Asian entertainment channel &TV are all set to come and meet the fans! &TV stars from the comedy show Bhabi ji Ghar Par Hai,Saumya Tandon and Aashif Sheikh, will be entertaining audiences with their comedy gags. The pair play an unconventional married couple lead as Anita and Vibhuti Narayan, in the one-of-its type show on Asian TV. Zee TV’s chat-show Zee Companion will see its much-loved hosts ready to greet the visitors at the ZEE stand. Zee Companion is a unique live show that acts as an interactive portal between viewers, hosts and experts. Come and meet the lovely Natasha Asghar, Anila Dhami and Sujata Joshi. ZEE London Mela will be hosted by ZEE’s very own presenter Asad Shan – be ready for a fun and interactive session and come along to the ZEE stand for selfies and autographs with the celebs. Also grab your free ZEE goodie bag and line up for free henna designs and watch out for the Zee TV show Out & About crew filming all the activities on the day.

GLOBAL LOCAL STAGE

Hussain Brothers Qawwali Group: Hussain Brother’s have been performing for the past 18-years in and out of the UK. Hussain Brother’s are gifted In other popular styles such as traditional Qawwali, Sufi Qawwali, Bollywood Qawwali, Modern Day Qawwali Ghazal And Geet. Hussain Brothers are also very famous for incorporating different languages into their Qawwali such as Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu and Persian.

Dila V & The Odd Beats: This Bosporus-straddling blend of Turkish folk and irresistible Balkan dance beats comes with sinuous hints of Greek Rebetiko amongst other tasty world music flavours. Fronted by singers Dila Vardar & Djanan Turan and featuring Nicki Maher’s eloquent clarinet it’s Multi-National Gypsy Eastern Folk Girl Power at its finest.

DJ Parm Panesar: Parm Panesar is a musical mind that has an intricate knowledge of Eastern and Western sounds and has a magical way of fusing them together. Playing percussion, in particular Dhol, opened doors to tour the world. Parm also taught Dhol for Johnny Kalsi’s Dhol Foundation, at the Midlands based classes. Turning to DJing, he built up a unique style, again wowing audiences globally.

Shane Tong: Shane Solanki is a writer, performer music producer and spoken word artist from London. He’s worked with Talvin Singh, Ninja Tune and Hetain Patel, and has supported musicians including Billy Bragg, comedians including Shazia Mirza, and poets including Micheal Horowitz, Lemn Sissay and Ursula Rucker. Navrattan: Created by Nutkhut’s co-Artistic Director Simmy Gupta, Navrattan - A Quest for the Lost Gems, inspired by the children’s sto-

ries of Mughal Emperor Akbar and his favourite advisor Birbal, will take you into the mysterious and magical world of the Mughal Empire! Join Birbal on his epic quest to find and collect the nine hidden gems from Emperor Akbar’s precious nine-jewelled pendant – his Navrattan. An interactive promenade show packed full of surprises, storytelling, puppetry, traditional Kathak dance and craft workshops. This 45-minute family adventure is a perfect introduction to the ancient arts and traditions of the Mughal Empire.

SPECIAL

huge live entertainment line-up www.asian-voice.com AsianVoiceNews

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Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

ian TV talent plus lots more LIVE PERFORMANCES AT THE MABBC ASIAN NETWORK STAGEIN STAGE

Sama Blake: Hailing form the Netherlands, Sama started song writing from a young age. He made his debut with Sniper in 2012 and has since worked with music producer Eren E on various songs including Bottom and High Profile. His music has been playlisted on Asian Network since his debut release and he has performed sessions on Noreen Khan’s show.

Zack Knight: British Asian singer-songwriter, Zack (formerly known as Zeekay), first started out writing for household names such as Tinie Tempah and Ginuwine. His early influences were Usher, Boyz II Men and Michael Jackson, and his style of mixing p o p u l a r Bollywood songs with R&B has p r o v e d extremely popular. He has been supported across the Asian Network.

Cold Fever: Multi-talented producer, songwriter and rapper, Cold Fever, was introduced to BBC Asian Network by champion of new music, Yasser, and performed at Glastonbury 2015. AKA Bhumeet Kala-Lee, Cold Fever grew up with a mix of Reggae, Jazz and Soul influenced by his Jamaican father and Indian mother. This blend inspired the creation of ‘Desi Reggae’.

Jernade Miah: East London based singer, Jernade, made his debut in 2010 when he performed as Asian Network presenter Bobby Friction’s BBC Introducing artist at Maida Vale studios.

The BBC Asian Network Stage will be hosted by: Yasser, Panjabi Hit Squad, Kan D Man and DJ Limelight

OTHER ACTIVITIES

In true mela style, visitors will get to enjoy a ‘tastes of Asia’ food market with an array of mouthwatering delicacies. Activities will also be buzzing at the ‘MelaBazaar’ shopping area. The Main Stage finale will feature one of the world’s leading creators of outdoor spectacle, Transe Express, presenting their award winning show Mobille Homme, collaborating with East London’s Dhol Academy in an awe inspiring finale with a customary ZEE London Mela firework finale. BBC Asian Network listeners can enjoy highlights from the ZEE London Mela on air through the week, with extensive highlights and special programming from the festival from Friday in: Yasser, who is a champion of unsigned music (Fridays 9pm – 12am); Kan D Man & DJ Limelight, who are supporters of new Asian street artists and young UK talent (Saturdays, 9pm – 12am); and

Panjabi Hit Squad, who are at the forefront of British-Asian music (Saturdays, 6 – 9pm). Highlights will also be available at www.bbc.co.uk/asiannetwork. The ZEE London Mela, a festival that has been previously referred to as the ‘Asian Glastonbury,’ is entering a new era as an affordable ticketed show. Now in its thirteenth year the event is using its new found status to raise money for victims of this year’s devastating earthquakes in Nepal. The modest ticket prices for Europe’s biggest Mela will be fully restored in the infrastructure, artists and performances at this much loved one-day festival.

For more information please visit www.londonmela.org To purchase tickets for the event visit londonmela.ticketline.co.uk

Nepal Appeal This year, due to the devastating earthquakes in Nepal, the ZEE London Mela will have three charitable beneficiaries; Oxfam, The Gurkha Welfare Trust and YUMI Nepal. All three charities will have a physical presence at the Mela. Here’s a little bit about what each charity has been up to, helping the victims in Nepal recently.

THE GURKHA WELFARE TRUST

The series of earthquakes that began in April this year devastated the Gurkha homeland. Over 30,000 people were killed or injured, and millions lost their homes. With support from Gurkha soldiers despatched to Nepal, The Gurkha Welfare Trust responded immediately to provide medical aid and distribute emergency supplies in isolated rural areas, including food, utensils and temporary shelter. Its local knowledge and extensive network benefited the wider international relief efforts. With the monsoon approaching, emphasis soon shifted towards providing more robust CGI shelters. Following the rains, the Trust will begin its long-term response which will range from reconstruction assistance – particularly houses, schools and water projects – to enhanced health care. “The GWT has an abiding commitment to Nepal, our home. We will do all that we can to support Gurkha veterans, their families and communities as they look to rebuild their lives.” To support the Trust’s Earthquake Response Fund, please visit: www.gwt.org.uk/donate /earthquake.

OXFAM

Oxfam has been working in Nepal for 30 years so we were well-prepared to respond immediately to the first earthquake when it struck on 25th April. The government of Kathmandu established 16 emergency camps and Oxfam is setting up clean water facilities in all of these, in coordination with other agencies. We

are providing hospitals, health centres and temporary camps with water and sanitation facilities for families made homeless. We are currently working in seven districts: three in the Kathmandu Valley (Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur) and four rural districts (Gorkha, Sindhupalchok, Nuwakot and Dhading). The Oxfam warehouse in Nepal and supplies trucked in through Oxfam India have been essential to ensure that we can respond quickly. However the situation is still very challenging, there is severe road damage from the earthquake and the airport in Kathmandu is struggling to ensure that it can receive the cargo needed in this response. People’s homes are devastated and Oxfam is also providing materials to build temporary homes. Oxfam is planning to continue to do what we’re doing, and scale up emergency supplies, providing water wherever possible and ensure that the environment is clean. None of this work would have been possible without working with our partners, providing cash and support to them to ensure that they have the confidence to continue

Boris Johnson, Mayor of London

working in the community where they themselves have unde rgone huge strain and tragedy. Also this would not have happened without help from supporters providing the funds to make this happen. To donate money to Oxfam’s Nepal Earthquake appeal, please visit: https://donate.oxfam.o rg.uk/emergency/nepal

YUMI NEPAL

Yumi founders Uttam and Clare Nepal have both personally been affected by the devastating earthquake which hit Nepal on Saturday. Uttam was born and grew up in the Dhading region of Nepal, which is very close to the epicentre and his heart. Dhading has been hugely affected by the earthquake leaving houses flattened and lives lost, therefore at Yumi we have set up our own charity the Yumi Nepal Earthquake Appeal. We aim to raise £150,000 which will be used to provide the relief of suffering arising from the earthquake in Nepal. To date we have raised over £118,000 and have been overwhelmed by the support which has included: 1,300 sleeping

‘I am delighted to support ZEE London Mela, which brings a fantastic showcase of the breadth of South Asian arts and culture to west London every year and gives us an opportunity to celebrate the huge contribution that London’s Asian com-

bag donations, local schools having own clothes days, customers knitting blankets and hats, pharmaceutical donations, charity lunches and much more. On the 7th May 2015 our first shipment of 333 boxes (5,200KG) in 27 pallets, containing donations and aid, was flown from London to K a t h m a n d u . Additionally we have also managed to send food supplies to over 1300 families (6,500 People) to remote districts including Dhading and Nuwakot. Funds raised will be used not only to support the immediate needs of getting food, shelter and medical supplies to those most affected in remote areas, but also for the longer term rebuilding of the country, which will continue long after the current global media coverage has gone. We urgently need your help to provide the life changing support Nepal needs. Over 9,000 people have are known to have died and millions more needing urgent help. To donate please visit: www.everyclick.com/yu mi-nepal-earthquakeappeal/ec16053/info

munities make to our city. We are very lucky to have this attraction on our doorstep. It’s the biggest of its kind in Europe and, as always, it promises to inject zest into the end of summer for Londoners of all ages and backgrounds.’

SPECIAL

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Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

GLOBAL LOCAL STAGE

BBC ASIAN NETWORK STAGE

NAVRATTAN

LYCAMOBILE COMMUNITY STAGE & MAGIC MELA FAMILY AREA

THE KNOWLEDGE BAZAAR

INDIAN MODERN ARTS FOUNDATION TENT

TASTES OF ASIA

SPORTS AREA

Gate 1 Car access South Ealing tube E3 bus Shuttle service to Ealing Broadway

FUNFAIR

BAR

Gate 4 Pedestrian access Acton Town tube

NORTH CAR PARK PUBLIC ENTRANCE

M F

Gate 5 Pedestrian access

G7 6

i 10

10 8

M FToilets

Disabled Toilets

Lost Persons & Police Station

Gate 3 Car access

CRAFT MARKET & EXHIBITORS

Info point

Gate 2 Pedestrian access E3 bus to and from Acton High St

MAIN STAGE

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Viewing Platform

First Aid

M F

Blue Badge Parking

Gate 6 Pedestrian access Gunnersbury tube Kew Bridge station H91, 237, 267, 391 buses

In the Sports Area you'll find a range of activities hosted by Sporting Equals, from football to tennis to boxing, golf and cricket, plus the opportunity to meet elite levels sportspeople. Sporting Equals is breaking down barriers to sport, whether it is about participating through community based activity, getting involved in elite sport, are considering a career in sport or want to transfer your professional skills and experience at a senior level within the sport sector.

Travel For the best way to plan your journey in London visit www.tfl.gov.uk/journeyplanner We strongly recommend you come to the London Mela by public transport. Buses E3 and H91 will operate extra services to make your journey quick and easy. A special express shuttle bus will operate between Ealing Broadway and Gunnersbury Park (Popes Lane) every 10-12 mins.

Tube Acton Town (District Line / Piccadilly Line) 5 minute walk South Ealing (Piccadilly Line) 10 minute walk Gunnersbury (District Line) 10 minute walk

Gunnersbury, Kew Bridge, Ealing Broadway

special express service. 237, 267, 391 at Chiswick High Rd

Bus

By Car

E3 serves Popes Lane. Enhanced service every 5 mins between Greenford and Turnham Green. H91 stops on south side of the park. Enhanced service every 10 minutes. 65 stops in South Ealing Road. 70, 207, 266, 427, 440 to Acton High Street, then E3 to Popes Lane. 83, 112, 207, 226, 297, 427, E1, E2, E7, E8, E9, E10, E11 to Ealing Broadway, then

Limited parking available at a charge of ÂŁ10 per vehicle. Gunnersbury Park and the surrounding areas will be a controlled parking zone. ALL cars illegally parked will be towed.

Train

Disabled Parking Free parking on-site provided to Disabled Blue Badgeholders.

Sports Area

REALESTATEVOICE

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Suresh Vagjiani

Sow & Reap A Property Investment Company

Vastu vs Location

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Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

We have a property currently under offer, on the verge of exchanging if all goes well. The property is part commercial and part residential consisting of 6,700 sq. ft.; we purchased it in Dec 2014 for £3.75m. We had an episode of squatters in the property, this was over Christmas, at a time when no one in the company was even in the country. On a residential property you can now call the police and they will evict them on the spot, however for a commercial property it’s not as easy. You need to go through the courts, there is an explicit eviction process which is the route we went down. I guess this is collateral damage of the property business, it happens time to time. I even heard rumours on the street it was orchestrated by someone who felt they were cut out of the deal when we were purchasing the property. The sale price is £4.5m which gives a healthy profit in a short time. It’s located in Southwick Street, W2. It’s a property I know well, as we were based at number 31 for many years which is directly opposite this property, so I have been looking at this building for many years. The price we purchased it for was cheap equating to only £560 per sq. ft. for the blended value. A freehold in this location at this price was cheap. We had a strategy for the property, four planning applications had been prepared and were being submitted bit by bit. The first one has been already approved. The residential element consists of four units, we were looking to increase this to six units as well as getting planning to convert part of the commercial to residential.

The pro perty was not o n the marke t, we did not want to pu t it on the market until t he plannin g permissions were in place at t he ve ry least . However word get s arou nd and Cen tral Lo ndo n is an in cestuou s place, an d e ve n t houg h it hadn 't be en put on t he market it was quie tly be in g punt ed around , we we re given a strong offer which was hard to refu se.

and fueled my suspicions that we should not hold this property on a long term basis, even though it has a lot going for it in terms of the potential planning upside and the cross rail coming into this area in 2018, this would ensure the values increase in the foreseeable future at least.

One thing had always bothered me about this property, that was whoever occupied the commercial element had never done well, after a short while they left, they never made money whilst they were there. Call me a superstitious looney, but something was clearly wrong here. Even after we left our office a Malaysian restaurant had opened up which ended up in conflict with the freeholder and ended up closing, it was partly due to this situation we ended up purchasing the property cheaply. The buyer wanted to see the property one more time before exchange, so we arranged a viewing. At this viewing I met my former landlady. I asked her why she hadn't gone for this building, she said point blank that she did not like it, and then proceeded to tell me about a property which was opposite her house, which she wanted to purchase for one of her children to live in, as Indian parents do. However one thing bothered her and that is the last two generations of owners who had lived there ended up divorced and in conflict; this put her off from purchasing even though it was cheaper than market price. This swayed me on my decision to sell,

The pro perty is being sold throug h run ners, so me one who knows so me one who k nows t he buyer. This is the way man y deals are done in th e market. I wan ted to of course do uble check the price we are sellin g at so I aske d o ne o f the top age nts in Lond on to see if they co uld get me an of fer, the hig hest they were able to come up t o was only £4. 3m. As the property is held in a company the stamp duty is only 0.5% as opposed to 4% for a commercial building. The low transaction costs allow us to resell the building without a big dent in the profits. This will allow us at least to move on to other deals, and recycle the funds. Planning is a variable and there is nothing confirmed, the buyers have been moving surprisingly fast on this, I was constantly being pushed to harass my lawyer to send all the information across. On this transaction the delays have been fully from our side, if we had the paperwork ready they would have exchanged in a few days. On this transaction the buyers have agreed to release the 10% deposit to us on exchange, this at least allows us to have funds to secure other deals which we are working on and to keep the cart moving forward.

The Real Deal

A similar tran saction was don e pre vio usly with the same in vestor, a pub was purchased for £1.25m and re so ld fo r £1.75 within a year, with t he ad ded benefit of pl ann ing fo r re side ntial fl ats above. This is the easiest way to make mo ney i. e. by adding value withou t gett in g yo ur hands dirty.

Marylebone, London, NW1 Purchase Price: £720k l A beautiful two bedroom apartment on the first floor of a popular period mansion block l Long lease l Lift l High ceilings l Low service charges l Excellent buy and hold opportunity Call us now to secure this deal!

Property is all about location, this is why they say there are three important factors to consider when purchasing property. If the location is superb then all other problems will be overridden. This is the third freehold block we have transacted on in this location. One was in London Mews W2 which was a site purchase of four mews houses, which at the time we overpaid for but due to the location has done very well and so has the investor; and the other more recently in London Street. No doubt here too in years to come this property will increase well in value.

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Tips of the Week l Investing in bricks and mortar means the investment is real, hence it cannot simply disappear like non tangible investments such as stocks and shares. l You can easily understand the incomes and expenses associated with property investment, the same cannot be said of many financial products.

ASIANBUSINESS

Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

Consultant Editor Financial Voice Alpesh Patel Dear Financial Voice Reader,

Is the stock market crashing? What does it mean for you? Seven things to bare in mind: The market is not run by humans For the first time in the history of the market it is run so much by computer algorithms than ever before. When humans ran it, you could out-think them. You knew they would be irrational and could keep one step ahead, and buy when they were panic selling and sell when they were panic buying. Now, the market still has emotional humans, but is bounded in a big box by computer algorithms. And those stop humans panicking and at other times cause the panic too. It has become more important than ever to think like a machine Controlling your emotions has always been key to market domination. When I wrote my first book, Mind of a Trader, published by the Financial Times – it was all about trading pschology. Now, everyone has caught on about the importance of controlling emotion, so they created machines, algorithms to trade. They have no emotion. They will naturally win. Artificial Intelligence already exists in the market They say the true measure of AI is if you cannot tell you're dealing with a machine or human. Only in trading is this clearly achieved. I do not know if I am trading against a human or machine. You've seen the movies where the human is up against the robot – and the human in the end wins. Well in real life – you've got no chance – the machine can think quicker and process more information than you. Trading with an algorithm is like being Iron Man with his suit Speaking of movies, only a trading algorithm gives you the power to scan many markets and find opportunities. When the markets are dislocated and volatile, this is more important than ever. The winners will be algorithm humans But clearly, you cannot in extreme market volatility leave a algorithm to trade for you and just leave it on autopilot. Speaking of autopilot, would you get on a plane without a pilot, even though I told you plane algorithms can take off and land planes? Of course not. You want human oversight to make the final decision. It's why I and professional hedge funds like mine create trading algorithms. In fact one of the largest, most successful in the world is AHL – a hedge fund purely run on trading algorithms. As for the question of whether it is a crash? No...not yet. It's an opportunity to buy Apple and if at any point in the next five years it goes up 50% (it will) then sell it and make 50% within 5 years. Simple. That too is in a way a trading algorithm.

Poundland's takeover of 99p gets a go ahead

Poundland's £55mn take over of rival 99p stores has finally been given a go ahead, after it has won provisional approval from the competition watchdog. An investigation in April found a merger would result in a substantial lessening of competition in cer-

tain areas through a possible reduction in quality, fewer promotions or closure of stores. However, a survey of 5,000 customers and an analysis of company documents and commercial data came to a different conclusion. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has over turned its previous decision and concluded that the deal will not make customers "worse off".

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C&C announces sale of Alpha Hospitals AsianVoiceNews

C & C Alpha Group (CCAG), a leading international private equity firm, has completed the sale of Alpha Hospitals to Cygnet Healthcare for a sale value of £95m. Alpha Hospitals is the largest provider of specialist psychiatric care in England, working with adults and adolescents who require treatment in a secure setting. It runs state-of-the-art facilities in Bury, Sheffield and Woking with more than 300 beds in total and employs just over 1,000 staff. Launched in 2002 by Patricia Hodgkinson, former CEO of the Florence Nightingale Hospitals Group, it was backed by CCAG, whose founder Bhanu Choudhrie joined the Alpha Hospitals board. Ms Hodgkinson’s vision was to deliver outstanding personalised care for patients with severe mental health problems in purpose-built facilities, working in partnership with NHS England and local NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups. The first site was opened at a disused hospi-

tal in Woking, Surrey, in 2003 and with CCAG’s financial backing, Alpha Hospitals later expanded to the two other sites. Its turnover was £42.1m for the year ending March 31, 2014. It has attracted interest from a number of healthcare providers and KPMG were appointed to advise on the company’s strategic options. Cygnet Healthcare’s parent company, Universal Health Services, is one of the largest hospital companies in the US. Details of the detail are not being disclosed. “The strong interest we had from potential bidders, and the price we ultimately received, is testament to the strength of the business,” said Bhanu Choudhrie. “CCAG incubated Alpha Hospitals and invested in it for 13 years, allowing it to scale up and grow successfully. I am delighted it will continue to grow under a new owner. “Our approach is to back management teams which create long-term value. I have been on the board since its inception

and have always taken a close personal interest in the business. We will now be looking for new investment opportunities in healthcare and other speciality services”. Londonbased CCAG has a track record of successfully incubating businesses around the world in healthcare, hospitality, real estate, aviation, utilities and agriculture. Last month, it brokered a deal for a new £150m cancer hospital in London, which will be run by

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the Abu Dhabi-based VPS Healthcare Group. Ravenscourt Park Hospital will be the first private facility in the UK to offer proton beam therapy and is the first hospital to be re-developed in London for more than 30 years.

Bhanu Choudhrie

CII and SDI organise first ever IndiaScotland Business Summit The first India-Scotland Business Summit was organised by Scottish Enterprise’s international arm of Scottish Development International (SDI), the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the Royal Edinburgh Tattoo on 24 August in Edinburgh. The Summit aimed to strengthen business linkages between Indian and Scottish companies building on the current success in trade with India. Scottish exports to India were worth £242m in 2014, and tapping into particular potential in sectors such as BPO, education, IT, biotechnology and energy. Over 50 Scottish companies attended a session to hear from senior Indian business representatives about the fast growing economy in India and the opportunities this presents, including a special address from HE Ranjan Mathai, High Commissioner of India to the UK. “The IndiaScotland Business Summit is being organised at an opportune time when the economies of both India and UK are witnessing high levels of growth and diversification; in the UK economy Scotland plays a very vital role. The Scottish economy’s strengths in the key sectors of Energy, Life Sciences, ICT, Education and Food and Drink provide immense prospects for collaboration with India

Brigadier David Allfrey, CEO, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo festival addressing the Scotland-India Business Summit Seated (from right): HE Ranjan Mathai, High Commissioner of India to UK, Dr. David Landsman, Executive Director, Tata Limited, Mr. Ravi Pandey, CEO, Rolta, Mr. Sanjiv Chadha, Regional Head – UK, State Bank of India, and Mr. Rajiv Bhatia, Director, William Grant & Sons. under its “Make in India” flagship initiative,” said High Commissioner Mathai. “Interaction between the Indian and Scottish companies during the Summit would help to build linkages across sectors, thereby strengthening the strong bilateral economic relationship between India and Scotland,” he added. Shuchita Sonalika, D i r e c t o r - U K , Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) said, “Through the IndiaScotland Business Summit,

we aim to generate awareness among Scottish companies on doing business in India, particularly under the Make in India campaign. At the same time, the huge interest we are seeing from Indian companies to explore Scotland is also remarkable. Indian companies in the UK are enthusiastically looking at possibilities for expansion and collaborative opportunities in Scotland.” Rooma Bussi, Country Director Scottish Development International,

Shuchita Sonalika and Rita Hunt with CII business delegation and representatives from Scottish partner organisations

India said, “India is well on the way to becoming one of the world’s most important economies and one that we cannot afford to ignore. India has established a global position for itself, across a range of industries including IT, healthcare, pharmaceuticals and engineering to name just a few. These are areas in which Scotland excels as well, providing Scottish based companies with a host of opportunities across the Indian market. At the same time, there are sectors where India is looking for more technology, like the oil & gas or the clean tech industries. Oil & gas, clean teach and education are also key industries where Scotland offers world class expertise and a tremendous scope for innovation and collaboration for the mutual benefit of both countries.” The CII organised a delegation of representatives from major Indian companies such as Air India, Rolta, State Bank of India, SBICAPS, Tata Group, Wipro and Zensar Technologies, who are interested in business expansion and collaborative opportunities in Scotland, to travel to Edinburgh. They held meetings with Scottish Development officials, participated at the business Summit and also attended The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo festival and reception.

CURRENCYVOICE

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Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

Paresh Davdra is the Dealing Director of RationalFX, Currency Specialists.

Markit Index predict BoE to raise interest in six months

In the UK last week a strong inflation report boosted the currency, with the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) rising by 0.1% which is better than forecast and up from 0.0% compared to June. The higher inflation reading caused the pound to strengthen, this raised expectations that the Bank of England would increase the likelihood that interest rates would rise earlier that anticipated. External MCP member Kirstin Forbes warned yesterday that keeping interest rates low for too long risks undermining Britain’s economic recovery, especially if the increase was rapid rather than the gradual path we expect. A Report also out from Markit revealed around half of British households expect the Bank of England to hike interest rates in the next six months. Markit's monthly Household Finance Index showed 48 percent of households predict the BoE will raise interest rates over the next six months, the highest figure since July 2014 and up from 34 percent last month. The housing market also shows no sign of easing up this summer with prices climbing and mortgage lending seeing its strongest month for seven years.

Foreign Exchange

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City level house prices are seeing their fastest growth for over a decade; property market analysts Hometrack said last week that asking prices had increased 4.3 per cent in the three months to July. The Eurozone trade balance figure came in at a surplus of €21.9b against a €21.3bn consensus, which was the highest reading seen in the last 6months. This has mostly been down to the recent weakness of the EUR, proving attractive for exporters of EU goods. The month-on-month figure showed a 1.4% increase in exports, and exports from the single currency area to the rest of the world rose 12% to €182.7bn in the year to June. Greece’s Prime minister Tsipras resigned seeking to crush a rebellion in his leftist Syriza party and seal public support for the bailout program, Greece's third since 2010, which he negotiated. Faced with a near collapse of the Greek financial system which threatened the country's future in the euro, Tsipras was forced to accept the creditors' demands for yet more austerity and economic reform - the very policies he had promised to scrap

when he was elected in January. But a snap election should allow Tsipras to capitalize on his popularity with voters before the toughest parts of the latest program - including further pension cuts, more value-added tax increases and a "solidarity" tax on incomes - begin to bite. This may allow him to return to power in a stronger position without antibailout rebels in Syriza to slow him down. The US housing market index remains at the highest level since November 2005, and has registered above 60 for three straight months cooling US property market concerns. US manufacturing activity in New York State plunged to its weakest level in August since 2009 due to steep drops in new orders and shipments; although optimism on future business improved U.S. manufacturers have been struggling with a variety of headwinds, including weak overseas economies in Europe and China that have cut into exports. The dollar has also risen about 20% in value in the past year, which can also reduce exports by making them more expensive. Cheaper oil, meanwhile, has reduced demand for steel pipe

and other drilling equipment. New-home construction in the U.S. rose in July to the highest level in almost eight years, indicating the industry will pick up in the second half of the year. The Commerce Department report in Washington showed that residential starts rose by 0.2% to 1.21 million from 1.2 million in the previous month, the most since 2007. The weekly jobs figure from the US was again strong with the number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits last week remaining historically low. The subdued level of firings has been accompanied by falling unemployment and steady job gains, signs the labour market continues to heal in its seventh year of recovery. Bigger advances in wages will be needed in addition to the strengthened job security to help convince consumers to boost spending, which accounts for 70 percent of the economy. While inflation remains soft, a strengthening economy, marked by a tightening labor market and a firming housing sector, should give the U.S. central bank confidence it will gradually move toward its 2 percent target.

Weekly Currencies As of Tuesday 25th August 2015 @ 4.30pm

GBP - INR = 103.90 USD - INR = 66.09 EUR - INR = 75.54 GBP - USD = 1.57 GBP - EUR = 1.37

EUR - USD = 1.14 GBP - AED = 5.77

GBP - CAD = 2.09

GBP - NZD = 2.40

GBP - AUD = 2.18

GBP - ZAR = 20.43

GBP - HUF = 431.83

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Sevak Project gives healthcare to villagers

In Brief

AsianVoiceNews

Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

Men who take more childcare responsibilities have more sex

The Sevak Project is a village healthcare project based on Independent Duty Corpsman (IDC) model of the US Navy. There are 26 such projects in Gujarat - one project each in every district. The Sevaks training is for about two months. This project has demonstrated that this maybe the solution to "access to care" in India and other developing countries. Under this project, a person is selected from the village to look after his/her own village health care needs. The criteria for Sevak is that they must live in the village and should have minimum 12th grade education. They will be given training in health care, sanitation, water purification, prevention of diarrhoeal diseases, infectious diseases, chronic medical conditions and lifestyle modification. They will also be trained to do BP and blood sugar measurement. Sevaks then go house to

GEORGIA Research by sociologists from the University of Georgia found that, men who take more interest in fatherhood and take more responsibility in looking after their children have higher quality relationships and more sex. The sociologists grouped 487 couples into three categories: those where men did the most childcare, those where women did the most childcare, and those who split the caring among themselves. The research showed that women who did most of the childcare saw a decrease in their sex life and relationships.

Terror police arrest Bangladeshi lawyers

DHAKA The police have arrested Supreme Court barrister Shakila Farzana, Md Hasannzzamman Lion and Mahfuz Chowdhury Bapon for allegedly providing £88,000 to militant organisation Shahid Hamza Brigade. The arrests came a day after police seized three men linked to al-Qaeda over the murders of two bloggers in Dhaka.

Florida beach gives up a Spanish fortune FLORIDA Three hundred years after 1715 Plate Fleet was wrecked off the coast of Florida, treasure hunters have recovered gold coins worth $ 4.5 million in 6 ft deep water near a public beach. “It was just kind of amazing, on the actual 300th anniversary, they decided to tell a little bit more of their story,” said Captain Brent Brisben, owner of 1715 Fleet Queen Jewels, the company that owns exclusive salvage rights to the shipwrecks. The trove comprises more than 350 coins including nine known as royals that were specially minted for the king and are valued at $300,000 (£191,000) apiece. Until now, only 15 such coins had ever been found. 51 year old diver William Bartlett who found them, said, “I am actually touching history. The last person to lay hands on these coins was the Spaniard who loaded them onto the galleon 300 years ago.”

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house to do health screening and those with prehypertension, hypertension, pre-diabetes or diabetes are provided lifestyle modification education and if BP or FBS is high, are referred to doctors. The Sevaks also check BP and fasting blood sugar (FBS) of those who have established diabetes or hypertension and provide them lifestyle modification education. All Sevaks have been provided with binders for reference. Gujarat has been divided into four zones - north, south, central and west. Each zone has a coordinator and the coordinators job is to visit the village in

his zone once a month and provide any logistics support such as survey forms, stylets, strips, repair needs and collect the survey forms to input into an XL file and send it to Thakor G Patel, MD, MACP. To date, data has been collected in about 35,000 people that shows the prevalence of diabetes to be 5.8 % - 3.4% did not know they had diabetes, 9.6% had pre-diabetes, 10% with hypertension and 15.9% had pre-hypertension. Sevak Project has data on source of drinking water, energy source for cooking, education level and toilets. Since the beginning of the project

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the number of toilets have doubled in every village and the awareness for diabetes, hypertension has increased. A Sevak training and seminar was held from 26-28 December 2014. First day and a half was spent to train the Sevaks on Saving Children's Lives. This training was conducted by the American Heart Association (AHA). It is the first project by AHA in India, we are hoping the trained Sevaks will save children's lives below the age of 5. In India, there is a high mortality in this age group for multiple reasons. We are hoping for this program to succeed. Now, the IIT alumni have formed an NGO called WHEELS and Habitat for Humanity India and involved with RO water and toilet project. We just inaugurated an RO plant and toilets in Agiya village, Sabarkantha district, Gujarat. - Thakor G Patel, MD, MACP CAPT MC USN (Ret)

Getting engaged abroad is now the in-thing Reshma Trilochun The wedding day is probably one of the most cherished memory for a woman. The groom ensures that he makes everything related to the wedding extremely special for his special lady by firstly proposing to her in the most unique and exquisite way, making sure that the wedding proposal also becomes one of her best cherished memory. There used to be a time when men got down on one knee and asked for their ladylove's hand in marriage. However, times have changed and that option may seem a little outdated. Nowadays, prospective grooms go completely out of their way by giving their bridesto-be an elaborate proposal. Going abroad to pop the question has emerged as a very popular choice. Research by the insurer, Liverpool Victoria, found that 60% of engagements now happen abroad. Paris topped the list as being the romance capital of the world, whereas New York was second, then followed by Las Vegas, Orlando and Venice. The research also revealed that British couples getting engaged while

on holiday abroad increased by 39% in ten years. In 2014, nearly 156,000 British men had proposed abroad, up from an estimated 111,000 in 2005. Even the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge got e n g a g e d abroad in 2010. Prince William had proposed to K a t e Middleton in Kenya. He carried his mother's ring, which he presented to the Duchess, for three weeks before waiting for the right moment to ask for her hand in marriage. Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan had a very similar story as well. While shooting for a movie in New York, Abhishek

Bachchan appreciated the view of the city from his hotel room and envisaged a future with his ladylove. He decided to propose to her at the very same spot in years to come. In an interview, Abhishek Bachchan said, “I was filming in New York for a movie. And, I used to stand on the balcony of my hotel room and wish, 'One day, wouldn't it be nice if I was together with her [Aishwarya Rai Bachchan], married. Years later, we were there for the premiere of Guru. After the premiere, were were back in the hotel. So, I took her to the very same balcony, and I asked her to marry me.”

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Stop supporting terror or face aid cut, US tells Pakistan WASHINGTON The Obama administration has warned Pakistan of aid cut if it did not stop supporting terrorism. The US has also told Pakistan that if it failed to meet the demand, the proposed visit of Pak prime minister Nawaz Shariff to Washington would in jeopardy. An administration official said there has been no announcement about a Sharif visit to Washington in October although the trip had been widely reported in the Pakistani media. “We have not made any statements about that (Sharif 's visit to Washington),” Peter Lavoy, special assistant to US President and senior director for South Asian Affairs at the National Security Council of the White House said.The rethink or at least holding back the announcement of the visit came after the administration conveyed to Islamabad that it wouldn't certiy the effectiveness of Pakistan counterterrorism operation to Congress to enable passage of the (Coalition Support Fund CSF), the military reimbursement aid that goes towards keeping Pakistan solvent.

Dawood Ibrahim acquires a In Brief new residence in Karachi Bangla court bans film on Rana

AsianVoiceNewsweekly

NEW DELHI India has prepared a dossier to prove the presence of gangster Dawood Ibrahim in Pakistan before the cancelled NSA-level talks between the two countries. According to the dossier, in September 2013, Dawood acquired a new residence in Karachi’s Clifton area that is close to the residence of Bilawal Zardari, son of former Pakistan prime minister Benazir Bhutto. The dossier cites the address as Shireen Jinnah Colony, near Ziauddin Hospital, Clifton, Karachi. It is “located near Ziauddin Hospital, where medical treatment could be provided to Dawood whenever required. The place is close to the residence of Bilawal Zardari”, it adds. Another new residence purchased by Dawood is located at Main Margalla Road F-6/2, House No.7, Islamabad, the dossier adds. In addition, details of four passports issued to Dawood by Pakistan have been detected by India. These are: Passport No. G866537 issued from Rawalpindi, C-267185 issued from Karachi, G-

Briton held over murders of Bangladesh bloggers DHAKA Touhidur Rahman, 58, a Bangladeshi-born British citizen, was arrested for the alleged murders of two secular bloggers in the country, police said. Rahman was arrested by security forces with two other alleged members of Ansarullah Bangla, a banned group linked to alQaeda. Four bloggers have been murdered by suspected Islamic extremists in Bangladesh this year. Rahman is accused of masterminding the murders of Avijit Roy, a BangladeshiAmerican writer, and Ananta Bijoy Das. Major Maksudul Alam, of Bangladesh’s counterterrorism unit, said: “We can confirm that Rahman is a British citizen of Bangladeshi origin. He is the main planner of the attacks on Avijit Roy and Ananta Bijoy Das.” The killings have caused outrage, with the Bangladeshi government and security forces under fire for failing to protect secular activists or stamp out the rising Islamist threat. Roy was hacked to death by masked men as he and his wife returned home from a book fair in the capital, Dhaka, in February. His wife, Rafida

Bonya Ahmed, who was injured in the attack, claimed later that police officers had witnessed the murder but did not act. Das was killed in a similar attack in May on his way to work. Both men were prominent activists and writers for Mukto-Mona (Free thinkers), a website that champions freedom of expression and vocally opposes Islamic fundamentalism, making it a target for Islamist groups. Intimidation has spilt into violence since 2013, when Islamists demanded a blasphemy law. Bangladesh is officially secular, but the government has been accused of ignoring the murders for fear of provoking Islamist groups. Police responded to the murder two weeks ago of Niladri Chatterjee by urging bloggers not to “cross the limit” by offending religious beliefs. Ansarullah Bangla claimed responsibility for the murders of Roy and Das. Ansar al-Islam, the Bangladesh chapter of alQaeda, claimed others.

Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

Dawood Ibrahim 886537 issued from Rawalpindi and KC285901 issued from Karachi. India has also found that Dawood’s wife Mahjabeen holds Pakistani passport J-589103, his son Moeen holds Pakistani passport J-588518, daughter Mahrukh - who is married to Pakistani cricketer Javed Miandad’s son holds Pakistani passport J563473 and other daughter Mehreen holds Pakistani passport J-563439. Dawood’s brothers Anees and Mustaqin hold Pakistani passports H144394 and KA-713357, respectively. Indian agencies had earlier located the following nine addresses in Pakistan as Dawood’s hideouts: Moin Palace, near Abdullah Shah Gazi Dargah, Clifton, Karachi;

6/A, Khyaban Tanzeem, Phase-V, Defence Housing Area, Karachi; ISI Safe House located on the Bhoubhan Hill, around 20 km from Islamabad on the Islamabad-Muree Road; Margalla Road, P-6/2, Street No. 22, House No. 29, Islamabad; 17 CP Bazar Society, Block 7-8, Amir Khan Road, Karachi; 30th Street in Ph-5 extension of DHA in Karachi; Abdullah Shah Gazi Saab Ki Mazar, Karachi; 8th floor of Mehran Square, near Pardesi House-3, Talwar Area, Clifton, Karachi and a Palatial Bungalow in the hilly area of Nooriabad in Karachi. According to India’s dossier, “All these details were shared with Pakistan on a number of occasions through diplomatic channels. The dossiers of Indian fugitives staying in Pakistan, including that of Dawood, were also shared a number of times in forums like the Home Secretary level talks.” The last time a dossier on Dawood was shared with Pakistan was during Home Secretary level talks between the two countries on May 24-25, 2012 in Islamabad.

Bela Bajaria- highestranking Indian-American executive in TV LOS ANGELES Bela Bajaria, the recently named president of Universal Television, is now considered as the highest-ranking IndianAmerican female executive in television. He is instrumental for hits, such as Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt and Brooklyn Nine-Nine. She was born in London and moved to Los Angeles with her parents at the age of nine. Her parents are Indian, who were raised in East Africa. Bela Bajaria's father's optimism and business skills were a big influence on her. She said, “My father said, we'll go to Los Angeles and open car washes, and that's what we did. Seeing his entrepreneurial spirit inspired me.” Speaking about her journey into the television business, Bajaria said, “I ran a non-profit for four years, raising money for projects that benefitted Third World disadvantaged children. I discovered an appreciation for storytelling, and I like the intersection where creative talent and business come together. So in 1996, I started in the movie department at CBS. I watched, read and learned

Plaza disaster

DHAKA Following a petition, Bangladesh high court has ordered a six-month ban on a film about a garment worker who was rescued from the rubble 17 days after the Rana Plaza disaster which killed more than 1,000 people. It said that the movie included scenes of horror, cruelty and violence that could affect workers in the country’s garment industry. The directo r, Nazrul Islam Khan, had argued that the real-life story of Reshma Begum depicted courage amid the tragedy. The disaster on 24 April 2013 left 1,135 people dead. Thousands more were rescued from the ruins of the illegally built complex which housed five factories supplying garments to international companies.When the collapse started, Begum said she raced down a stairwell into the basement, where she b ecame trapped in a pocket of space that allowed her to survive. She found some dried food and bottles of water to sustain her until she was rescued. She now works in a hotel. The collapse triggered an outcry at home and abroad. There have been efforts to reform Bangladesh’s garment industry to improve safety and working conditions. nvestigators say several factors contributed to the building’s collapse: it was overloaded with machines and generators, constructed on swampy land, and the owner added floors in violation of the original building plan. The high court also asked the country’s film censor board to explain in four weeks why the clearance certificate to show the movie should not be cancelled. Sirajul Islam Rony, the petitioner and a trade union leader, said he went to court because the film’s producer had not removed some scenes of horror as instructed by the court in March.

Patel successfully spins his team to the semi-final

Nottinghamshire Outlaws cricket team reached the semi-finals of the Royal London One-Day Cup, as Samit Patel took four wickets against Durham, for the second successive day. Patel put an end to Durham's reign as domestic one-day cup holders as he produced figures of fou r for 11. On the previous day, Samit Patel had helped his team yo a County Championship win against Warwickshire. The one-day cup semi-finals will be taking place on 6th and 7th September 2015, and the final will be held on 19th September, at Lord's.

Elderly Indian-American couple shot dead in US

HOUSTON An elderly Indian-American couple was shot dead on North Carolina, and the police have arrested a 20 year old suspect, Joshua Lenard Poacher, charging him with two counts of murder in the killings of the Patels. The 72 year old Kantibhai Patel and 67 year old Hansaben Patel were found shot inside a room at hotel Best Western Point South, where they both lived and worked. Sheriff Greg Jenkins said Poacher was arrested from a hotel in Ridgeland. Bela Bajaria everything I could. I left to become a manager at Warner Bro., then CBS said come back and we'll make you an executive. So I did.” For Bela Bajaria, it is important to be at home at night with her family. She grew up in an extended Indian family and tries to recreate that for her three children. On speaking about Universal Television's future, she said, “Being an independent supplier of TV shows will be interesting in the coming years. People are watching so much TV, and there are a lot of places to sell. Each show is a building block for us... There are problems and pressure, sure. But it's all fun. After all, we're making TV shows.”

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BJP retains power in Bengaluru civic polls

Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

BENGALURU The Bharatiya Janata Party has won the control of the Bengaluru civic body for the second term in the bitterly fought election, with the outcome coming as a setback for the ruling Congress party and to chief minister Siddaramaiah. Upsetting Congress plans to wrest control of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) council with an all out offensive, the BJP won 100 wards out of 198, as the results were declared by the state election commission for the polls held on

August 22. After its wins in the civic polls in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, the

CBI registers assets case against Raja CHENNAI Years after the £17.60 billion 2G spectrum allocation scam, the Central Bureau of Investigation has now registered a case of disproportionate assets against former union telecom minister A Raja. It is alleged that Raja had acquired these assets through companies and individuals alleged to be his front for his illegal activities when in power. Meanwhile, Raja has denied all allegations, and said the CBI's move to register a DA case against him, contradicts the earlier findings of the Delhi CBI office, and was politically motivated. “There is a difference of opinion inside CBI and it is evident from this move. This is against the Supreme Court order, documents and truth,” said Raja, the former minister and senior leader of DMK.

CBI has registered a case against Raja and 16 others, including his wife Parameswari, nephew Paramesh Kumar, C Krishnamurthy, who is also a director of Kovai Shelters Promoters based in Perambalur and Green House Promoters in Chennai. Raja denied CBI’s allegation that assets owned by Greenhouse Promoters are owned by him. He claimed that courts in the past have said he doesn’t have any link with the company. “CBI says there is no culpability on my part, whereas CBI Chennai says that all the properties accumulated by the Green House are mine. This inconsistency and difference of opinion not only raises doubt about CBI’s motive, but reveals that CBI’s move is politically motivated.”

Sikh activist moves HC against ‘house arrest’ CHANDIGARH Sikh activist Surat Singh Khalsa who is on a fastunto-death for the release of political prisoners, has moved Punjab and Haryana High Court, against his detention in his house. In his petition, Khalsa's counsel, ADS Jattana said the petitioner had virtually been placed under house arrest and the police wasn't letting anyone enter his residence. He explained the immediate reason to knock on the high court doors was the Khalsa's son-in-law's death. After receiving news of his murder in Chicago, grieving relatives and visitors were refrained from entering his house and meeting him. Claiming that this was against his rights as an individual, the counsel

said the police were not within their rights to isolate him, particularly when no proceedings were pending against him. The petition is expected to come up for hearing later. Khalsa has been on an indefinite fast for more than 200 days to press for his demand for the release of prisoners, “irrespective of their religion”, languishing in the jails even after the completion of their sentence. Khalsa's lawyer is believed to have earlier sent a notice to the Ludhiana Deputy Commissioner claiming that his client had been “illegally detained.” A clarification was sought whether Khalsa had been arrested. The lawyer has also warned of moving the high court and filing a petition against Khalsa’s “illegal detention.”

Bengaluru results make it three in a row for the BJP, which weathered an aggressive campaign led

from the front by the chief minister himself against its rule in BBMP. Congress bagged 76, JDS headed by former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda 14 and others eight, according to BBMP officials. Admitting that the results are not according to his party's expectations, Siddaramaiah said, "We had expected a simple majority for Congress." He said, "This result is not a referendum on my government, but as a chief minister I own responsibility for the debacle."

Human trafficking high in Tamil Nadu CHENNAI According to data released by the National Records Bureau, Tamil Nadu had the second highest incidence of crime related to human trafficking in 2014. Statistics show the state had 509 cases of human trafficking, with 590 victims, and all of them registered under various sections of the Immoral Traffic Act, 1956. NCRB designates human trafficking as crimes where girls are imported from foreign countries, and procuring, buying and selling of minors for prostitution. Assistant professor in the Department of Criminology, S Ramadoss pointed out that the number of cases reported are only one-third or lesser as compared to the actual crimes committed.

“Currently, there is no follow up, medical assistance and psychological counselling for those who have been rescued. We should focus on that. Otherwise there is a possibility that they could be trafficking again,” he said. In 2010, a study conducted by former head of the department R Thilagaraj, for the United Nations Development Programme on trafficking and HIV, found that 20 per cent of the victims of trafficking contract HIV. The study had called for a coordinated effort by the police, judiciary and non-governmental organisations dealing with women, children and labour trafficking was imperative to prevent spread of the infection, the study said.

LeT threatens Punjab Shahi Imam LUDHIANA A little more than three weeks after Punjab Shahi Imam Maulvi Habibur Rahman Ludhianvi chastised the recent Gurdaspur terror attack and asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to give a befitting reply to Pakistan, he has allegedly received a threat from the Lashkar-e-Toiba, warning him of dire consequences for his statements. The one page letter, written in Urdu, was found lying outside his house. He said he found the letter lying at the old gate of his residence and opened it after the morning prayers. He said the letter had cited his statement on July 29after the attack on Dinanagar police station. Written in Persian script, the letter reads, “We read your statement against Pakistan on July 29. Our

enemies often do such rubbish things, but such statements by a Muslim damage the image of Pakistan. You are a traitor of Islam. Be ready. The news of your death will be published in newspapers very soon.” The Shahi Imam is undeterred by the threat and said, “I do not fear these threats. We were opposed to the creation of Pakistan in 1947 and will always be against Pakistan. We are Indian nationalists and no such threat can change our mind. We can sacrifice our lives for the nation.”

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Congress MLA among 6 killed as lorry collides with train

HYDERABAD At least six people, including Karnataka Congress MLA Venkatesh Naik from Devdurg, were killed when a granite-laden truck collided with a train at a level crossing in Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh. The incident occurred when the truck driver crashed through the gate and rammed into the moving train, causing 3 coaches to derail. “The truck driver jumped out seconds before the impact and fell unconscious but survived and has been questioned. The truck could not stop as the brakes failed. This is the second major mishap involving the Bangalore -Nanded express in two years. In December 2013, a fire caused due to short circuit killed 26 people in the B1 compartment while the train was passing by Puttparthi in Anantapur district.

AIADMK protests against TN Cong president

CHENNAI Congress has asked chief minister Jayalalithaa to end her protests against TNCC president EVKS Elangovan who allegedly made remarks against her. AICC Secretary Su Thirunavukarasar said a week long agitation on the issue was condemnable and the AIADMK government should “focus on work.” His statements, however, fell on deaf ears as the party activists continue to demonstrate against Elangovan for his derogatory remarks on the CM's recent meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Charging the AIADMK government with indulging in violence by attacking the house of Elangovan in Chennai, Erode and also the party office here, Thirunavukarasar said, “Several official works were pending and instead of taking it up, AIADMK is indulging in violence.”

PU elections cause accommodation problems for Afghan students

CHANDIGARH Panjab University elections are in full swing, causing unreasonable hardship, especially to the foreign exchange students who face accommodation problems. Shahaqa Besharat, a student of MA-I political science, from the Badakhshan province of Afghanistan, said, “One of my classmates is a candidate for the post of department representative. I am facing hostel problems and have to live in a hotel but no one considers it a problem. We have gone to the dean’s office many times in vain.” Language comes as a barrier for these students, limiting their involvement in the elections. Ali Raza said. “When the candidate, who is standing for the post of department representative, came to us, he talked in English. We are usually approached in English here. Though during my stay in Punjab I have learnt a little Hindi from Bollywood movies.” Afghanistan has sent the maximum number of students to study at Panjab University, Chandigarh, and its affiliated colleges in the last six years.

Haryana govt and CISCO sign MoU on smart city concept

CHANDIGARH The Haryana government and USbased CISCO Systems International BV will collaborate to “further the smart city concept” in the state. Both the entities signed a memorandum of understanding in the presence of chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar and industries minister Capt Abhimanyu, in San Fransisco. The MoU states that CISCO will share its expertise and experience in the development of smart cities, particularly its “safe plus smart plus connected” community programmes and “Internet of Everything”. Haryana principal secretary Devender Singh signed on behalf of the state government and Faiyaz Shahpurwala, senior vice-president, CISCO, on behalf of his company.

Haryana minister questions word 'adhinayak' in national anthem

CHANDIGARH Haryana's health minister Anil Vij questioned the word 'adhinayaka' in India's national anthem Jana Gana Mana, insisting it was like praising a dictator. He tweeted saying, “We have full respect for the national anthem, but which 'adhinayaka' are we praising in this, till date I have not been able to understand this.” When contacted by the media, he said, “I feel time has come that a national debate should take place on this. Adhinayaka ka matlab hota hein tanashah (the word adhinayak means a dictator). In democracy, there is no place for a dictator.” He said he wanted to know who the 'adhinayak' is, in the anthem, and said a healthy debate” on the issue is needed.

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Raksha Bandhan – a festival of brother-sister relations AsianVoiceNews

Raksha Bandhan symbolises the beautiful relation shared by brothers and sisters, and stands for a lifelong promise of protection. The origin of the festival dates back 6,000 years with the Aryan civilisation. There also are several stories linking it with the past mythology of the Hindus. One of the well known stories about the festival is that of Rani Karnavati of Chittor and Mughal Emperor Humayun. The widowed queen, when under attack by Bahadur Shah, realised she wouldn't be able to protect her empire. So, in lieu of protection, she sent a rakhi to the Emperor, who was so overwhelmed that he, along with his troops set to protect Chittor from Shah's invasion. It is since then that the act of a sister tying a rakhi on her brother's wrist indicated lifelong protection

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from him. Another reference to the festival takes it back to 300 BC, when Alexander invaded India. The Conqueror

was believed to be shaken by the fury of Indian King Puru. Upset by this, his wife who was aware about the significance of the festival, approached Puru, who accepted her rakhi, and backed out from war with Alexander when opportunity knocked. According to Indian mythology, when Lord Krishna killed evil King Shishupal, he was hurt and left with a bleeding finger. Draupadi tore a piece of cloth from her sari and

tied it around his wrist to stop the bleeding. That was the moment when Krishna declared himself bounded by her sisterly love, and promised to repay her debt. Which he did, when the Pandavas lost Draupadi in a game of dice. Like every Indian festival, even this one is marked with several rituals that vary in different regions of India. Indian women shop for rakhis, a colourful thread, to tie around their brothers' wrist. Men reciprocate to the gesture by buying their sisters a gift. Traditionally, women pray for the well being, good health, prosperity and happiness of their brothers. The earliest examples of Rakhi prayers can be found in the Vishnu Purana. Raksha Bandhan is one of the most beautiful examples of what 'family' means to every typical Hindu. Asian Voice wishes everybody a Happy Raksha Bandhan.

Janmashtami marks birth of Lord Krishna Janmashtami, the birth of Lord Krishna, falls on the eighth day of the Krishna Paksha. Considered to be the most powerful incarnation of Vishnu, Godhead of the Hindu Trinity, Krishna is considered to be an enigma; a leader, a hero, protector, philosopher, teacher and friend. It is believed that he lived between 3200 to 3100 BC, and was born at midnight during the Hindu month of Shravan. The occasion is celebrated with much fervour and gusto all across India and its neighbouring countries. It is called Dahi Handi in Mumbai and

Pune, and its rituals include breaking pot of yoghurt/ buttermilk, commemorating Krishna's love

for butter. Gujarat, home to Dwarka, the Lord's kingdom, celebrates the festival by visiting the

Dwarkadhish temple. Janmashtami is a national holiday in Bangladesh, and enthusiastically observed by the 80 per cent Hindus in Nepal. Born to free Earth of its evils, Lord Krishna plays a major role in Hinduism and its mythology. [Any organisation or temple celebrating Janmashtami, please feel free to send us information in 25 words, about the celebration to be featured in our coming event section. Email: aveditorial@abplgroup.com. Deadline: 31 August 2015, 12pm.]

Kerala celebrates Onam to honour King Mahabali When Asura King Mahabali rose to rule over heaven and earth, Gods began to feel it as a threat. They approached Lord Vishnu, who disguised himself as a Brahmin boy, and went to meet Mahabali. Graciously received by Mahabali, who asked what he desired, the Brahmin said all he needed was land equivalent to three paces of his feet. Mahabali's guru Shukracharya realised that the boy was no ordinary Brahmin and advised the king not to promise anything. But being a man who never went back on his word, Mahabali went ahead as promised, and asked the Brahmin to

measure out his desired three paces of land. The Brahmin started to grow in size until he could measure earth with one footstep, and the heavens with

another. When asked where to claim his third pace of land, Mahabali offered his head, and in doing so, was sent down to Sutala. In return for his

devotion, Lord Vishnu granted the king permission to visit his beloved subjects once every year. This is the day Kerala celebrates Onam, in honour of the great king who loves his people. Onam falls in Chingam, the first month of the Malayalam calendar. Along with the king's annual visit, it is also Kerala's rice harvest festival. Celebrations begin 10 days prior to Thiruonam, with different cultural rituals like pulikali, vallamkali, and others. It ends with a huge feast called Sadya, served on plantain leaves.

Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

Prof Boulton, CB Patel and Dr Dixit Dr Kashinath Dixit and Prof Andrew Boulton visited the Asian Voice office on Tuesday 18 August to discuss with our Publisher/Editor CB Patel, about the various projects they are doing in India. The main aim of the projects is to provide world class care at an affordable cost. The subjects discussed at the meeting were: • Diabetes prevalence study across the country. • Yoga intervention for pre-diabetic patients to see if they can delay the progression to diabetes. • Take international brand of diabetic foot care to India and make it affordable to common man. • Take European Association for the Study of Diabetes approved educational courses to empower our doctors with latest scientific information. • Rural diabetes care model. Dr Kashinath Dixit is a Consultant Physician and Diabetologist working at Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Trust. His special interests include prevention and management of the complications of diabetes like cardiac, renal and sexual dysfunction. He is also one of the few Medical Andrologists in the UK and is the first Endocrinologist to obtain

certification in Clinical Andrology from the European Academy of Andrology. Prof Boulton is the current President for the EASD and one of the popular Diabetologist across the globe. He is currently Professor of Medicine (Diabetes) at the University of Manchester and Consultant Physician at the Manchester Royal Infirmary. He has published over 300 peer review papers and was the first Awardee of the International Award into Diabetic foot research (1995) and has also received the CastelliPedroli prize from the European Association for the Study of diabetes (2003) and the Roger Pecoraro Award from the American Diabetes Association (1996) and in 2005, the Edward Olmos Award for Advocacy in the Prevention of Amputation in Diabetes. Prof Boulton was formally Editor of diabetic medicine (19911995) and is currently an Associate Editor for Diabetes Care as well as being in the Editorial Board of urrent Diabetes reports and the International Diabetes Monitor. He currently is the advisor to the NH for the EDIC Study (Epidemiology of Diabetes and its Complicdatins), the follow up of the DCTT Study.

Neck-to-neck race for the Labour Mayoral Leadership With the Labour Mayoral election drawing close, it is believed that two Labour party candidates are now joint favourites in the leadership race- one Tessa Jowell and the other Sadiq Khan. According to a report in the New Statesman, both these camps reportedly believe Jowell has a strong first place among party members, but Sadiq's camp are also sure that people supporting Corbyn, will eventually support for Sadiq Khan. Jowell's team on the other hand insists that they are doing well among all sections of the electorate. We would not know who is right, till 11 September. Speculations

suggest that Trade Union leaders voting for Corbyn may endorse Khan. But then politically the closest candidate to Corbyn is actually Diane Abott. Members of a political party is actually not as factional as we think. Citizens may have issues with one's faith or the community, but the vote bank is perhaps going to be divided in three principal groups. Some will vote for someone they’ve heard of, others will vote according to the politics of the candidate closest to Corbyn’s and rest will vote tactically to stop someone benefitting the other. Now which group is going to be the biggest, that will decide the Mayoralty.

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8 UK universities awarded Race Equality Charter Mark Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

Eight UK universities have been awarded the Race Equality Charter Mark, in recognition for their efforts in tackling racial inequality on their campuses. The Race Equality Charter was launched in 2014 by the Equality Challenge Unit (ECU), a charity that supports equality and diversity in higher education across the UK. The Charter's aim while being launched were to encourage an imperative approach to making cultural and methodical changes and a difference to minority ethnic students and staff.

The Charter recognised 8 UK universities' efforts in tackling racial inequality There were 30 universities that had embarked on the journey, however, only 21 managed to complete it, and 8 received the Bronze Award, recognising the quality of work that was car-

ried out and the vigour of the plans. De Montford University, King's College London, Kingston University, Royal Holloway University London, Staffordshire University, University of Hertfordshire, UCL (including the Institute of Education) and University of Manchester are the eight universities who successfully received the award. Head if Equality at ECU, Sarah Dickinson said, “They have all worked extremely hard and I'm delighted they are now able to celebrate the fruits of their efforts.”

Anti-reservation ghost haunts Gujarat CONTINUED FROM P1

The event was organised at GMDC ground, Ahmedabad for at least 25 lakh people from the community participating. On the morning of the rally, lakhs of people gathered on the grounds for the much hyped Patidar public address by Hardik. Nearly 20,000 security personnel were deployed and roads within a two-kilometre radius of the venue were closed to traffic. He gave a speech in Hindi, directed at BJP. He said if the government ignored the community’s demand, the BJP in Gujarat will face the consequences in the poll and “lotus will not bloom”. Challenging the ruling government, he declined to call off the agitation, asking Anandiben to rethink her decision. He said, “Only if our rights are safeguarded will we let the lotus (the Bharatiya Janata Party's symbol) in 2017. Else, the lotus will never bloom again.” “Reservation is our right. Give us our right happily or we will snatch it. Whoever will talk of interest of Patels will rule us…If the situation worsens in the state, it will be Gujarat government's responsibility. This is the last rally. After this, we won't do any more rallies but conduct other kinds of programmes. We will announce a future course of agitation.” However, the entire event took a turn when he suddenly announced calling off the rally and instead sitting on a fast until the CM personally came to accept their memorandum. This change, unwelcome by the Lalji-led SPG, split the community on ideological grounds. The group disowned Hardik’s ‘anshan’ and his demands. Crowds at the ground hungry for a performance protested the cancellation of the rally, only to be consoled by Lalji’s declaration that the show would go on as per schedule. Meanwhile, when Hardik refused to give up his fast after police permission for the gathering expired, he was arrested along with five others from the stage. The rally that proceeded to the collector’s office passed through a dalit locality, where stone pelting and violence followed, a beginning to an intensely savage evening. Motorcyclebound and stick-wielding Patidar youths were seen vandalising public and private property and forcing shops and offices to shut. Protestors gathered on several state and national highways across Gujarat and blocked traffic. The stir turned violent after Hardik’s detention and clashes were reported in various parts of the city

where police resorted to baton-charge and lobbed teargas shells to control the situation. Police said violent protesters attacked security personnel overnight with stones and sticks and burned government and private vehicles. Section 144, Curfew was imposed in several places, including Mehsana city, parts of Surat city and Unjha and Visnagar towns, and educational institutions closed in the industrial district. Troopers of the State Reserve Police Force, BSF and Rapid Action Force were deployed in Ahmedabad and Mehsana. Mobile internet services were stopped for a day and the Centre rushed 5,000 paramilitary personnel to Gujarat. Hardik Patel was hastily released by the police as the public aggression mounted. Army conducted flag march on five different routes in Ahmedabad and then in Surat to instil confidence among the people as at least seven persons succumbed to the unravelling violence. As tension mounted, chief minister Anandiben Patel tweeted saying, “My sincere appeal to the people of Gujarat to maintain peace and not to indulge in activities disrupting law & order across the state.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an appeal for peace in the state. He said, “I request everyone to maintain law and order in the state. Violence should be avoided at any cost as it benefits no one.” The Patidar community is well rooted abroad and holds distinct recognition in the western countries. Emotionally affected by the ongoing riots in their home state, Non Resident Gujaratis are seemingly appalled by the situation that has uncovered in a series of violence and flames. British-Indian Alpesh Patel said, “Clearly a lot of people feel excluded, dejected, frustrated, aliens in their home State. Positive discrimination in favour of others has caused this. Positive discrimination now for those previously left out, is not the answer, it makes things worse. A genuine meritocracy is what is needed, not reservations, favouritism in order to right old wrongs. It’s not fair on those historically mistreated because of discrimination, but discriminating more in the opposite direction to try and achieve a balance is wrong. Discriminate on merit alone, not on historic injustice.” The Patel community in India is basically, a farming community. Being dependent on weather, the farming members of the community suffer severe hardship by becoming debt

Vice principal of King's College London, Chris Mottershead said, “A critical assessment of our performance in this area was long overdue and this is a key step in us becoming the diverse and inclusive organisation we want to be.” Professor Dominic Shellard, De Montford University's vice-chancellor added, “Institutions had to demonstrate their inclusive culture and determination to improve by preparing an action plan to tackle racial equality, as well as identifying any barriers to progression.”

laden and some have resorted to committing suicide. A section of the community considers that the present quota and reservation system results in their hardship. These aspects need special measures and assistance. However, by and large, the community has progressed in all fields and have produced leaders in education, industries, construction, business, politics etc and is considered to be well off. Complaints abound that some who have been pushed through this system have not been trained sufficiently to catch up and ultimately provide good service when employed. This requires appropriate corrective measures. Pravin Amin from National Association of Patidar Samaj in the UK said, “Irrespective of these circumstances and facts, I believe that, for now, the downtrodden Dalit and Tribal Communities need to be supported by legislation to enable them to be lifted out of poverty until most of the Indians have risen to a reasonable living standard. I also believe that a fair system, constantly monitored and moderated by adjusting the percentage is essential for India to become a leading nation.” “Remarks against Mr Narendra Modi and the Chief Minister of Gujarat show how some over confident people become oblivious to the fact that their actions would cause harm to the Prime Minister and ultimately the country. I consider that a peacefully, negotiated solution must be sought. Alpesh Patel, a well known a media commentator and columnist in the UK said, ““Clearly a lot of people feel excluded, dejected, frustrated, aliens in their home State. Positive discrimination in favour of others has caused this. Positive discrimination now for those previously left out, is not the answer, it makes things worse. A genuine meritocracy is what is needed, not reservations, favouritism in order to right old wrongs. It’s not fair on those historically mistreated because of discrimination, but discriminating more in the opposite direction to try and achieve a balance is wrong. Discriminate on merit alone, not on historic injustice.” The recent unfold of events takes Gujarat back to 1985, when anti-reservation led to communal riots; dividing the society on castes and communal lines. In 1985, the anti-reservation movement intensified when the then Madhavsinh Solanki-led Congress government proposed to increase OBC quota from 10 per cent to 28 per cent. Incidents of violence continued and many Dalit community establishments were targeted across the state.

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CONGRATULATION

Congratulation to Rikesh Dahya for getting two A* and one A in your A-levels. We are very proud that you have been accepted by the prestigious Cambridge University to study Natural Science. We wish you all the very best in your future endeavours.

If you have excelled in your A-Levels result, and want to win a prize, please send us a copy of your result and the name of the course and University you are joining, along with your full name, photo, phone number and address. Karma Yoga Foundation, Trustee Kantibhai Nagda and others would like to award you with a token of appreciation for your accomplishments.

Out of the results we receive:

Only one best student will receive £1001 Two second best students will receive £501 each Three third best students will receive £251 each

Hurry, send in your details by email to aveditorial@abplgroup.com by 6 September 2015.

Fish oil supplements doubts Many elderly people consume fish oil supplement to boost brain power, However, a study has shown that they are wasting their time, as well as money as fish oil supplements did not slow mental decline. 4,000 people were monitored by scientists over a span of five years. The scientists found no signs that omega-3 capsules boosted brain power as they aged. There have been other studies that have associated regular fish consumption with lower rates of the eye condition age-related macular degeneration (AMD),

heart disease, and dementia, which has generally been linked with omega-3 fatty acids, contained in fish. Dr Emily Chew, from the US National Eye Institute, “Contrary to popular belief, we didn't see any benefit of omega-3 supplements for stopping cognitive decline.” Dr Simon Ridley, from Alzheimer's Research UK, added, “As volunteers in this study had age-related macular degeneration, and were being treated for this condition, it is difficult to know how these results apply to the wider population.”

31-year-old man arrested for Bethnal Green murder

31-year-old Suluk Ahmed charged for murdering his father in Bethnal Green with stab injuries, and a A 31-year-old man, Suluk 13-year-old boy with minor Ahmed, was under arrest cuts. at hospital, on suspicion of Suluk Ahmed was also murdering his father, and found in the house after for the stabbing of three trying to cut his wrists with children in their family scissors. home, in Bethnal Green, A Scotland Yard east London. Ahmed has spokesman said, “Officers been charged with murder, attended and found five as well as two counts of people suffering from variattempted murder. ous injuries. A 31-year-old Jamir Ali (79), was man was found with selffound by the police at the inflicted injuries and was three-storey house with taken to an east London multiple stab wounds. He hospital...”. was taken to hospital but Suluk Ahmed will be died later from a heart appearing in custody at attack. The police also Thames Magistrates' Court found an 11-year-old girl on Thursday 27th August. and a two-year old boy

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I devoted my gap year for a worthy cause, why don't you?

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Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

Ashni Patel, 22 years

On my gap year, I was searching for a worthy cause to support to make it it memorable.I was introduced to CAREducation by Bharat Solanki, a trustee of the charity and also a close friend of my father. CAREducation’s aim to make a difference to the lives of disadvantaged and naturally challenged children around the world, through education. I was given the opportunity to go to the Himalayan Bhuddist Cultural School in Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India. I initially planned to go there for two weeks in last October, but ended up extending my stay to February spending three months there. I became very attached to the children and could see being that was making such a difference. I started to not only see, but actually live the way people must live in this world. Many children in the school came from single parent families, and few orphans. Yet they were so loving and tough. I truly believe it was my privilege to be able to get to

Body found at Premier Inn, Croydon

John Neville Singh A 67-year-old man from Mitcham, John Neville Singh, was reported as being last seen on Wednesday 19th August 2015. The police were investigating his disappearance and found a body in Premier Inn hotel, in Croydon, on Friday 21st August at 11pm. There were no formal identification that took place, however, it is alleged that officers were certain the body was of John Neville Singh. Singh's next of kin have been informed and a post-mortem is due to be scheduled. It is said that the Metropolitan Police are currently not treating this death as suspicious.

Ashni with the school children and a teacher know these children. They do not have the support of the families which majority of us are fortunate to have, but we have the power to choose which path these children are going to take. They have the same dreams as us. They dream to become doctors, engineers, police officers, surgeons, teachers etc and when asked why they say ‘to help those in their villages’. Without an education they will be trapped in a lifetime of

poverty and will not be able to achieve their dreams. Being there during the winter months, I experienced the struggles the children go through year after year. During heavy snowfall, we did not have light, heat, and electricity for almost a week. Not only was the temperature unbearable but the students were forced to study in their bedrooms wrapped in blankets during exam period. The school dealt with the conditions well, by

UK quadruples number of Chevening Scholars from Pakistan The UK has quadrupled the number of Chevening Scholars from Pakistan, the British High Commissioner, Mr Philip Barton CMG OBE, has announced at a reception ahead of their departure to prestigious UK universities. The number of Chevening Scholars being sent from Pakistan to the UK has increased by over 400% from 17 in 2014 to 73 scholars this year. The reception was attended by scholars, alumni and other invited guests. The High Commissioner presented this year’s certificates to mark their selection for the Chevening programme. The British Chevening scholarship programme is a global programme designed to identify the most promising, next generation of leaders from across the world. The scholarships offer Masters degrees in subjects such as governance, democracy, journalism and security at some of the United Kingdom’s most prestigious Universities. Congratulating the selected Chevening Scholars, the British High Commissioner Philip

Barton said: “Pakistan remains one of the top priority countries for Chevening awards. This year we have seen the biggest increase in the number of Chevening Scholars anywhere in the world, with a 400% increase. This shows the importance the UK puts in its relationship with Pakistan.” “We are also proud of our Chevening alumni and the important contribution they are making after their return to Pakistan...” The British High Commissioner has also launched the ‘Pakistan 2047’ conversation to engage future leaders of Pakistan in debates around the future of the country, and its place in the world.

taking students in groups to natural springs for baths, and using oil lanterns and candles during group study. In order for them to study more comfortably, I with the help of Jai Memorial hosted a charity golf event at Aldenham Golf & Country Club to raise money for a generator and other facilities. Jai Memorial Invitational Golf is an annual event which started in 2012 in tribute of Late Jai Vaghela (1988-

Suresh Vaghela with Devan Vaghela (left) and Amar Vaghela (right) cation). We had a great 2007). This was their third turnout throughout the event, and their purpose is day, including the 100 to raise awareness of the golfers. Both lunch and various people in need and dinner were catered by to raise funds for charities Shayona and Venue 5. and organisations to help The students will very and support them. soon have continuous We successfully manaccess to hot water and aged to raise money portable heaters allowing £11,000 on the 8th August them access to 'basic needat the charity event and s'. There is no doubt I will online donations continue to visit and sup(http://uk.virginmoneyport the school. giving.com/team/CAREdu

Two curry houses a week faces closure Curry is considered as Britain's favourite dish. However, there are about two curry houses a week that are closing as traditional chefs are retiring and closing their shops. At least two businesses a week are facing closure as the first generation restaurant owners from India and Pakistan are choosing to retire. It is said that as many as 33,000 people could face losing their jobs in years to come. Sanjay Majhu, considered as one of Britain's most prolific owners, sold four of his 14 Ashoka restaurants in 2014. He said, “It is getting harder. I do not see myself expanding into Indian restaurants anymore. People like going to World Buffet because they are cheap and cheerful. We don't have the capability to compete with large businesses like that. Indian restaurants still do well but

nitely trying to wind down the business now.” Experts from the restaurant industry are blaming the immigration rules for the closures of restaurants. The rules limit the migration Sanjay Majhu, boss of Ashoka of lower paid workrestaurant ers from outside of they're up against a lot of the European Union. Chefs competition. Personally from outside the EU must speaking, I hope to sell earn £29,550 in order to be most of them off. I am deficonsidered a UK visa.

Neeta’s Herbal Clinic for Hair & Skin Care

Coventry Now Open

A traumatic experience when one is balding or suffering from hair loss If you have been one to watch in despair as your luscious locks disappeard down the plug-hole everyday, then there is hope to save your crowing glory! While lustrous, healthy hair is a source of pride for men and women alike, many are forced to battle with hair problems. There are many reasons why a person can start losing their hair. Research has shown that stress plays a vital factor in determining hair condition. Poor hair care, environment, lifestyle and diet too has its effect on hair growth. It is very important to ascertain what kind of hair you have and then look after it accordingly. Hair loss falls into two categories, where it is distributed over the whole scalp and where hair loss is limited to localised areas. Hair loss is often more than a beauty problem. In some cases of alopecia, the condition is caused by bacteria or other infection or may even indicate a severe systemic disease. In the case of Hair loss, the hair follicles loose the capacity to initiate new growth. Neeta’s Herbal offers a safe and natural solution to combat hair and skin problems.

For Free Consultation:- Please call Coventry North London West London 317 Foleshill Road, North Finchley Hounslow Coventry, CV1 4JS. 0208 446 7020 0208 577 6821 Tel: 02476 681 649 www.neetasherbaluk.com

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Trisha and Kamal Haasan hit each other! Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

amal Haasan's upcoming thriller 'Thoongaavanam' features a fight sequence where Kamal and leading lady Trisha throw blows at each other. A source said, “This fight sequence takes places in the kitchen of a restaurant. Kamal and Trisha will be seen exchanging blows. The action has been choreographed very realistically by the French stuntmen trio of Gilles Conseil, Sylvain Gabet and Virgie Arnaud.” The

movie is an official remake of the French film 'Sleepless Night'. Kamal plays an aggressive cop and has Prakashraj, Kishore, Sampath Raj, Asha Sharath, Madhu Shalini, and Yuhi Sethu as supporting cast. Currently, the movie has reached post-production stage. “The dubbing work and other post-production work is going on. If all goes as planned, the film will hit the screens this Diwali,” the source said.

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Nazriya making a comeback

ctress Nazriya Nazim will make her onscreen comebak with hubby Fahad Fazil in an upcoming film to be produced by Anwar Rasheed who has an array of super hits in his kitty, including the latest 'Premam'. Nazim had debuted in the Tamil movie industry with 'Neram' and hit a chord with the audience instantly. She married Malayalam actor Fahad Fazail in 2014, and took a break from acting, a news that came as a shock for her fans.

Aishwarya Dhanush's online portal to release short films

Anushka to wear Bikini after Six Years

outh Indian actress Anushka has played her hand with almost all genres, and loved in what ever she's done. From mythological 'Baahubali', to horror films like 'Arunthathi', Anushka has always been confident in whatever attire she's been asked to don. If reports are to be believed, she will soon appear in a bikini in the upcoming 'Inji Iduppazhagi', in which she plays the lead opposite Arya. She was last seen in the attire in 2009, in Prabhas starrer 'Billa'. Her character in 'Inji' will be seen transforming, from a plump woman, for which the actress has had to put on 20 kilos, to a size zero girl.

ishwarya Dhanush recently launched 'Ten Entertainment,' an online portal to release short films made by youngsters. The first set of films released under this portal consisted of three Tamil films, one of them being Kiruthika's 'Life'. Kiruthika Udhayanidhi, who is married to popular actor and producer Udhayanidhi

PRESENTS

Stalin, debuted as a director with 'Vanakkam Chennai' in 2013. The short movie was well received and lauded for its freshness and engaging narrations, making it a commercial success. The talented filmmaker's short film was released by Aishwarya Dhanush, and deals with the life of a kid affected by AIDS.

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Alia wants to keep her personal life a secret

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lia Bhatt has managed to keep her secrets locked and away from media as they time and again tried to get to her by linking her with almost ever co-star she has worked with, from Varun Dhawan to Arjun Kapoor. However, a recent report says the Bhatt prodigy plans to come up with a show similar to Hollywood's 'Keeping up with the Kardashians'. It is said she wants a series on the exact lines and it can be called Keeping up with the Bhatts. She also added that a show might get the entire family together and people will get to

Priyanka's 'Quantico' to air in India after US premiere

Asian Voice | 29th August 2015

witness how the Bhatts are in real life. Meanwhile, she has been roped in for Gauri Shinde's next, with none other than Bollywood King Shah Rukh Khan himself. A source said, “It's a different, beautiful story about love. You cannot call it a love story, because Shahr Rukh and Alia are not opposite each other. Shah Rukh is too old to be Alia's lover.” The makers were keen to cast Katrina Kaif in the film, but decided to go ahead with a younger actress. “Alia's young, lively and fabulous. You'll have to wait and watch,” the source added.

riyanka Chopra's American debut TV series 'Quantico' will air in India on Star World and its HD counterpart, immediately after its US release. “Quantico is my first International TV venture and I am truly proud of it. I'm equally excited that the Star Network will showcase 'Quantico' as part of its prime-time line-up on Star World and Star World HD in India, and I couldn't think of a better launch pad in India for my TV debut... 'Quantico' will be available to Indian audiences almost immediately after its US airing,” the 33 year old said in a statement. The actress will be seen as Alex Parrish, a rookie FBI recruit with a mysterious past, in the ABC thriller, and will be joined by American TV

Salman does a Bajrangi Bhaijaan in real life

eel life Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Salman Khan who helped a little girl unite with her family, took up on the role in real life by helping four teenagers unite with their respective families in Karjat. When Mumbai based Antara Desai, whose company associates celebrities with charitable campaigns, spoke to Khan about the cause of reuniting the children with their parents, he was more than willing to take up the issue. Desai said Salman funded the whole cause, including the cost of their parents' travel to help secure a future for the children. She also said the

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stars, including Jake McLaughlin, Tate Ellington, Aunjanue Ellis and Graham Rogers, who play fellow recruits on the show where they train on Quantico base in Virginia, and secrets of their past start to emerge. A Star World spokesperson said in a statement, “It gives us great pleasure to present 'Quantico', a landmark series for India in recent times. This is a first for Bollywood as well as for India where an A-list actor like Priyanka Chopra is playing a lead in an International TV series.” “After collaborating with us on incredible movies like 'Fashion', 'Kaminey' and 'Barfi!'...we hope that Priyanka's character in 'Quantico' too, will resonate with television audiences,” Amrita Pandey, VP and Head of Marketing and Distribution, Studios, Disney India said in a statement.

reunion event of the children with their family made 'Bhaijaan' very emotional,

adding there are many such reunions planned out in the next few days.

Asian Achievers Awards is organised every year by UK’s leading news weeklies, Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar to honour British Asian par excellence For table booking contact us on 020 7749 4085

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