AV 30th March 2024

Supreme Court rejects ISIS bride Shamima Begum's citizenship appeal

S h a m i m a Be g u m f ac ed a no th er s etb ac k i n h er attempt to return to th e UK after losing her initial ap peal a t th e S u pr em e C o ur t to ch alleng e the revocation of h er citizenship B e g u m , w h o l e f t fo r Syria to join ISIS at the age of 15 in 2015, had her citizens h i p r e v o ke d o n n a t i o n a l security grounds when she was discovered in a Syrian refugee camp in Februar y 2 0 19 D e s p i t e h e r l aw ye r s arguing that she was a vict i m o f t r a f f i c k i n g , t h e Sp e c i a l I m m i g r a t i o n Appeals Commission (SIAC) r u l e d l a s t y e a r t h a t t h e removal of her citizenship was lawful In a recent development,

Shamima Begum's appeal to overturn the SIAC decision was unanimously dismissed by three judges at the Court of Appeal earlier this year A judicial spokesperson conf i r m e d t h a t B e g u m h a d sought permission from the Court of Appeal to escalate h e r c a s e t o t h e Su p r e m e Court, but her request was

d e n ie d Wi t h t h i s re f u s a l , Begum now has the option t o d i r e c t l y p e t i t i o n t h e Supreme Court to hear her case

Dismissing her Court of A p p e a l c h a l l e n g e l a s t m o n t h , t h e L a d y C h i e f Justice Baroness Carr, said: 'It could be argued the decision in Ms Begum's case was h a r s h ' It c o u l d a l s o b e argued that Ms Begum is the author of her own misfortune, but it is not for this court to agree or disagree with either point of view 'The only task of the court was to assess whether the d e p r i v a t i o n d e c i s i o n w a s unlawful Since it was not, Ms Begum s appeal is dismissed '

Robert Halfon and James Heappey step down from government roles

London's Science Museum unveils Adani Green Energy Gallery

The Sc ien ce M useu m in London celebr ated a signi f ic an t m il es t o n e w it h the o pening of th e Adani Gr e en E n er g y G al le r y, aimed at exp loring t he role o f r en ew ab l e en er g y in co mbat ing clim ate ch ange

G a u t a m A d a n i , i n a post on X, hailed the occasion as a "red-letter day," e x p r e s s i n g p r i d e i n t h e p a r t n e r s h i p w i t h t h e Science Museum, led by Sir Timothy Laurence and

S i r I a n Bl a t c h fo r d t h a t b r o u g h t t h e s t u n n i n g galler y to fruition

The newly inaugurated A d a n i G r e e n E n e r g y

G a l l e r y i s p o i s e d t o become a vital hub for fost e r i n g p u b l i c a w a r e n e s s about sustainability, transformative technology, and climate science, aiming for a # Su s t a i n a b l eFu t u r e

Titled "Energy Revolution:

The Adani Green Energy Galler y, " it will showcase a

b l e n d o f c o n t e m p o r a r y and historic artefacts from the UK and abroad, alongs i d e i n t e r a c t i v e d i g i t a l e x h i b i t s a n d c o m m i ss i o n e d m o d e l s T h r o u g h its displays, the galler y will i l l u s t r a t e h o w h u m a n imagination and innovation have shaped the past, p r e s e n t , a n d f u t u r e , e m p h a s i s i n g t h e c r u c i a l role of humanity in determining our energy trajector y

UK holds China accountable for cyber attacks

Mr Halfon, who held the r e s p o n s i b i l i t y fo r a p p r e n -

Two g overnment ministers have resigned from their roles, prompting a reshuffle by Rish i Sunak Robert Halfo n, previously serv ing as an ed ucat io n m i ni s ter, anno unced his resignat io n , w h i le Ja m es Heappey fulf illed his earlier p r o m i se to st ep d o w n a s arm ed forces m inister B o t h M Ps i n t e n d t o stand down at the next general election Leo Docherty w i l l r e p l a c e He a p p e y a s armed forces minister, while Luke Hall will take over as e d u c a t i o n m i n i s t e r He a p p e y, w h o h a s r e p r es e n t e d We l l s i n S o m e r s e t since 2015, had announced his decision to resign as an MP and minister earlier this month

ticeships and skills as a minister, has ser ved as the Tor y MP for Harlow s i n c e 2 0 1 0 B o t h M Ps have submitted resignation letters that express l o y a l t y t o M r Su n a k , resembling those typically crafted by Number 10 While each has their individual reasons for the decision, their resignations contribute to a broader trend A m o n g t h e 9 8 M Ps w h o have announced they will not stand in the next elect i o n , t h e m a j o r i t y a r e Conser vatives

Vara gives support to WaterAid

S h a i les h Vara M P m et with representatives of WaterAid at t h e H o u se o f C omm ons to discuss t h e l ac k o f c le an w ate r a nd p ro p er s a ni tat io n fo r m ill i on s o f p e o p le i n som e of the w orld’s p oorest countries

hygiene practices for those who need it Fo l l o w i n g t h e m e e t i n g , M r Va r a said: "It is clear that c o n t i n u e d a c t i o n i s needed to ensure that many more millions o f p e o p l e c a n h a v e access to clean water and better sanitation

Th e U K, suppo rted by allies within the Fiv e Eyes partne rs h i p , h a s i d en ti f i ed C hina state-aff iliated actors as th e p erpetrato rs of two m alicio us cyber camp aig ns aimed at demo cratic institutio ns and p arliamentarians F i r s t l y, t h e Na t i o n a l Cy b e r S e c u r i t y C e n t r e (NCSC) has concluded that a China state-aff iliated cyber e nt i t y l i ke ly c o m p ro m i s e d t h e U K E l e c t o r a l C o m m i s s i o n s y s t e m s b e t w e e n 2 0 2 1 a n d 2 0 2 2

Secondly, NCSC assesses that the China state-aff iliated APT31 conducted reconn a i s s a n c e a c t i v i t y a g a i n s t U K p a r l i a m e n t a r i a n s i n 2021 Although most targets were vocal in denouncing China's actions, no parliamentar y accounts were successfully compromised

Despite these attempts,

While this cyber activity did n o t i m p a c t e l e c t o r a l p r ocesses or individual rights, t h e E le c t o r a l Co m m i s s io n w o r ke d w i t h N C S C t o secure its systems and mitigate future risks

t h e U K 's d e fe n c e s a g a i n s t s u c h i n c i d e n t s h a v e b e e n s t r e n g t h e n e d , w i t h i n i t i at i v e s l i ke t h e D e fe n d i n g D e m o c r a c y Ta s k fo r c e a n d t h e Na t io n a l S e c u r i t y A c t 2023 providing tools to disrupt hostile activities

In response, the Foreign, C o m m o n w e a l t h , a n d D e v e l o p m e n t O f f i c e h a s sanctioned a front company and two individuals associated with APT31, sending a clear message against cyber threats to democratic institutions

Indian PhD student killed in London cycling accident

On March 19, tragedy struck wh en a 33 -year-old I nd ian stu dent, C heistha Kochh ar, p u rs u i ng h e r P hD at t h e L o n d o n S c h o ol o f Econom ics, was fatally hit by a lorry wh ile cycling back hom e in Gurgaon C h e i s t h a , a n a t i v e o f Bareilly, UP, had moved to London last September with h e r h u s b a n d , P r a s h a n t , a software engineer Prashant, who was cycling ahead of

h e r, h e a r d t h e a c c i d e n t a n d r u s h e d b a c k t o f i n d C h e i s t h a seriously injured D e s p i t e t h e efforts of police o f f i c e r s a n d p a r a m e d i c s , s h e t r a g i c a l l y passed away at the scene

The lorr y involved, suspected to be a garbage vehicle, stopped at the scene, and the driver is cooperating

w i t h t h e p o l i c e investigation As of n o w, n o a r r e s t s h a v e b e e n m a d e , a n d i n q u i r i e s a r e ongoing Cheistha s f a m i l y, i n c l u d i n g her father, Lt Gen Dr SP Kochhar, former 23rd Si g n a l O f f i c e r-i n -C h i e f o f the Indian Army, and her elder brother Raghav, have rushed to the UK to be with her husband Cheistha Kochhar

Wa t e r A i d i s a n international charity d e d i c a t e d t o i n c r e a s i n g access to clean water, decent s a n i t a t i o n , a n d b e t t e r hygiene for all Operating in 2 2 c o u n t r i e s , t h e c h a r i t y installs clean water systems such as wells, taps and toil e t s w h e r e t h e y a r e m o s t needed; in addition to their work training local people t o m a n a g e a n d m a i n t a i n them

Mr Vara discussed the importance of collaborating with communities to raise awareness of the issues, and the need for continued global support to ensure that there is accessibility of clean w a t e r, t o i l e t s a n d p r o p e r

It is good to see WaterAid working to improve the life chances of some of the poorest people in the world, and the UK needs to continue working with our international partners to support such efforts

In the UK, we take such matters for granted, but this is a life-or-death

the s hift in s eas ons

Despite the biannual ritu a l , m a n y i n d i v i d u a l s s t i l l f ind themselves caught off guard by the time change Ho w e v e r, fo r t h o s e l i v i n g with dementia, the transition c a n p o s e m o r e s i g n i f i c a n t

Happy Easter to all the readers of Asian Voice !

challenges Alzheimer’s Society, the U K ’ s fo r e m o s t d e m e n t i a charity, warns that individuals with dementia may struggle to adapt to the clocks moving for ward As daylight s t r e t c h e s i n t o t h e e v e n i n g h o u r s , d i s t i n g u i s h i n g b e t w e e n m o r n i n g a n d evening becomes increasingly diff icult for them This disruption to their internal body clock can disrupt sleep pat-

terns, making it challenging for both the affected individual and their caregivers to obtain adequate rest T h e e x t e n d e d d a y l i g h t may lead to feelings of restl e s s n e s s , c o n t r i b u t i n g t o fatigue and impacting mood a n d c o g n i t i v e f u n c t i o n Mo r e o v e r, c a r e g i v e r s m a y also experience added strain a s t h e y n a v i g a t e t h e s e changes alongside their loved ones living with dementia

Shamima Begum

James Heappey (left) and Robert Halfon

Collective efforts towards inclusivity key to a cohesive society

Kate's battle with cancer has ignited a wave of support and solidarity across the globe, serving as a poignant reminder of the strength and resilience individuals demonstrate in the face of adversity Amidst the outpouring of well-wishes and prayers, it's evident that her struggle transcends mere speculation and sensationalism, resonating deeply with countless individuals whom similar hardships have touched

The widespread hashtags such as "WeLoveYouCatherine" and "GetWellSoonCatherine" dominating social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), coupled with messages of encouragement from prominent figures like US President Joe Biden, underscore the universal compassion and empathy directed towards Kate during this challenging time Even amidst personal health battles of his own, King Charles III expressed profound pride in Kate s courage and resilience, highlighting the solidarity within the royal family

However, beyond the personal narrative of Kate's illness lies a broader discourse questioning the relevance and necessity of the monarchy in contemporary British society While the institution has historically enjoyed widespread support, recent years have witnessed fluctuating sentiments, with various members facing scrutiny and criticism Yet, despite periodic dips in popularity, the monarchy's role as a symbol of national identity, stability, and diplomatic influence cannot be overstated

Financially supported by UK taxpayers through mechanisms like the Sovereign Grant, the monarchy's expenditures have often sparked debates regarding transparency and accountability The cost of events such as King Charles III's coronation has raised concerns among the public, prompting calls for a clearer delineation of funding sources and expenditure

N e v e r t h e l e s s , p r o p o n e n t s a r g u e t h a t t h e m o n a r c h y ' s intangible contributions, including its diplomatic engagements and promotion of national pride, justify its existence

The Queen's reign, spanning seven decades, has served as a cornerstone of British soft power, fostering international relationships, and promoting British interests on the global stage

Amidst discussions surrounding the monarchy's relevance, broader societal issues continue to demand attention

The discourse on immigration, in particular, remains contentious, reflecting deep-seated anxieties and political divisions Despite being a nation shaped by immigration, Britain grapples with challenges related to integration and multiculturalism The economy comes second to immigration when it comes to prime matters of debate and importance

Before we get into statistics, let’s take the example of Reading, a town of 174,000 inhabitants about 60km (38 miles) west of central London It has a hugely diverse foreign-born population, amounting to one-third of the total Of more than 330 local authorities in England and Wales, only six saw larger percentage-point increases in their foreign-born popu-

lations in the decade to 2021 Like many other places in Britain, Reading has experienced three major waves of settlement since the Second World War Immigrants have transformed the town, but they have barely troubled it

The 2021 census revealed a significant foreign-born population in England and Wales, underscoring the country s diverse demographic landscape However, political rhetoric often amplifies concerns over immigration, with issues such as asylum-seekers dominating public discourse and shaping policy agendas

Despite these challenges, evidence suggests that immigrants have made significant contributions to British society, both economically and culturally Contrary to stereotypes, immigrants often exhibit strong economic outcomes, with their children excelling academically and occupying prominent positions within society

M o r e o v e r , t h e i n f l u x o f i n t e r n a t i o n a l s t u d e n t s i n t o British universities highlights the country's appeal as a destination for global talent, fostering diversity and enriching academic discourse Yet, the persistence of anti-immigrant sentiment poses challenges to efforts to foster inclusivity and celebrate diversity

Enrolment of international students in British universities has tripled since the year 2000, reaching 380,000 in 202122, with over half coming from China, India, and Nigeria Meanwhile, one-fifth of the student body is international, and in 2023, over one-third of British students admitted were of black, Asian, or mixed-race backgrounds

Despite immigrants often being in low-skilled jobs, their children tend to excel academically, outperforming native English speakers in GCSE exams, particularly in maths and English This contrasts with OECD's PISA findings in other European countries, where immigrant children struggle academically Notably, individuals of South Asian descent, children of immigrants, hold top political positions in Britain, Scotland, and London, highlighting the diversity of leadership within the nation

Britain adeptly manages immigration, inadvertently evolving into a nation of immigrants Contrary to stereotypes, migrants are often middle-class and skew slightly female They swiftly integrate economically, and their children excel academically While the government doesn't actively disperse immigrants, they naturally spread Rochdale exemplifies tensions but isn't representative; broader perspectives are needed

Ultimately, as Britain navigates complex issues ranging from healthcare to immigration, it s imperative to foster empathy and solidarity, recognising the resilience of individuals like Kate amidst personal struggles While debates over the monarchy's role and immigration policies may persist, collective efforts towards understanding and inclusivity remain essential in shaping a more compassionate and cohesive society

Changing socio-political landscape of Gujarat

A notable surge in migration is evident across various regions in India, with significant movements observed from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh to Delhi, as well as from Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and South India to Gujarat This internal dispersal of populations within states has far-reaching implications, potentially contributing to a more cohesive society Internal migrants play a crucial role in urban economies, with big cities attracting professionals from diverse backgrounds Lower-skilled migrants often find employment in construction, security, and household services, contributing to the workforce and economy Despite the importance of internal migration, the number of Indians migrating within the country remains relatively small compared to other large and unequal nations like China In contrast to the predominantly Christian nation of Britain, India is characterised by its diverse religious landscape However, religion still plays a significant role in shaping societal dynamics and cultural practices For instance, certain communities, such as those belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Castes (OBC), often migrate to larger cities in pursuit of economic opportunities

In the last 45 years, India adopted the Mandal commission s u g g e s t e d b y t h e J a n a t a P a r t y g o v e r n m e n t u n d e r P r i m e Minister Morarji Desai with a mandate to "identify the socially or educationally backward classes" of India to consider the question of seat reservations and quotas for people to redress caste discrimination, and used eleven social, economic, and educational indicators to determine backwardness The commission reported that 52% of the country’s population was OBCs Initially, the commission argued that the percentage of reservations in government service should match this percentage There was already a 22 5% reservation for SCs and STs The report was completed in 1980 and was implemented in 1990, leading to widespread student protests

Similarly, in 1985, Chief Minister of Gujarat Madhavsinh Solanki, Congress State President Jhinabha Darji, Congress Leader Sanat Mehta introduced KHAM policy The KHAM policy means Kshtriya, Harijan, Adivasi and Muslim This helped Congress win big however, this consolidation led to resentment among other communities like Patels, Kohlis, Bania, Brahmin and others in Gujarat and soon the state slipped into riots and chaos BJP became the direct beneficiary of this chaos and became the mainstay of Gujarat politics

The entry of Narendra Modi as CM further consolidated BJPs position in Gujarat Though KHAM benefitted Congress in the short term it started the party's rout in Gujarat from which it's still not able to recover Due to KHAM Gujarat lost m o r e t h a n a d e c a d

Assembly more than 165 seats are held by BJP This suggests that under the leadership of Narendra Modi, the BJP successfully brought together a unified community regardless of caste, creed, or religious sect, encompassing Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists This coalition of followers of Sanatan Dharma has historical precedent and is deemed ideal for India, considering that approximately 85% of the population identifies with it Recently in Jamnagar, Gujarat, Mukesh Ambani, the richest man in India, hosted a lavish pre-wedding event for his son Anant Ambani, inviting other billionaires The government temporarily converted the local domestic airport into an international one to accommodate the high-profile guests While the extravagant festivities captured the attention of millions of Indians through various media channels, they symbolised the opulence and influence of India's wealthy elite According to Forbes, there are just 186 billionaires in India, but the more significant economic story lies in the growing number of dollar millionaires Research by Credit Suisse indicates that India had around 850,000-dollar millionaires in 2022, with a notable increase from a decade earlier This growth in millionaire numbers has outpaced the average GDP growth rate, reflecting the country's economic resilience and expansion India's economic resurgence is driving a geographic diversification of wealth, with increasing investment and wealth accumulation observed in smaller cities Improved infrastructure, including enhanced air connectivity and high-speed internet access, has facilitated this trend by reducing transport costs and accelerating industrial growth Moreover, there has been a shift in the demographic profile of India's wealthy population, with younger millionaires in their 30s and 40s becoming more common However, there is a risk of affluent individuals migrating abroad, with reports suggesting that thousands of Indian millionaires relocated in 2022 alone Despite this, India's new affluent class remains committed to contributing to the nation's development and uplifting the lives of fellow citizens Many are eager to give back to society while enjoying their newfound wealth, emphasising the importance of societal transformation alongside individual prosperity

Political Sketchbook

Alpesh Patel

A Tale of Three Indian Heads of Government

I n the dyna mic landsc ape of glob al poli ti cs, the s tan ding of three si gnific ant I ndian leaders Narendra Modi in I ndia, R ishi Sunak in the UK, an d Leo Varadkar in I reland presents an intriguin g study of c on tras ts, dri ven by di stinc t politi cal, economic , an d social contexts

Naren dra Modi: A Stronghold on Indi an Poli tics

Narendra Modi’s sustained popularity in India is a t e s t a m e n t t o h i s c h a r i s m a t i c l e a d e r s h i p a n d t h e Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) adept use of a nationalist narrative whilst being globalist at the same time Modi’s tenure has been characterized by significant economic reforms, such as the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the Make in India initiative, aimed at boosting the country's manufacturing sector Additionally, his government's focus on infrastructure development and digital innovation has appealed to a broad spectrum of the Indian electorate

Modi's appeal also rests on a potent blend of populism and nationalism, resonating deeply with a significant portion of the population This, combined with a fragmented opposition, has kept him far ahead in the polls However, his tenure is not without controversy, including criticisms related to democratic freedoms and the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic Nevertheless, the opening of the Ram Mandir sealed his victory

Ris hi Sun ak: Naviga ting Turbulen ce in the UK

Rishi Sunak, stepping into leadership amid econ o m i c c h a l l e n g e s a n d p o l i t i c a l i n s t a b i l i t y , f a c e s a formidable task His premiership is marred by the aftermath of Brexit, the COVID-19 pandemic's economic fallout, and a cost-of-living crisis exacerbated by global events Sunak, with his financial expertise, has focused on economic stabilization and fiscal prudence However, these measures have been critiqued for not adequately addressing the immediate needs of those hardest hit by the economic downturn

Additionally, Sunak inherits a politically fractured landscape, with the Conservative Party struggling for unity and the public's trust eroding due to previous government scandals His technocratic approach, while reassuring to some, lacks the charismatic leader needed at this time

Leo Va radka r: A Return an d Depa rtur e

Leo Varadkar s political journey is marked by his return to the office of Taoiseach, following Micheál Martin's resignation as part of a coalition agreement Varadkar, who previously served as Taoiseach from 2017 to 2020, took office again in a time of relative stability but faces ongoing challenges, including managing t h e e c o n o m i c r e c o v e r y p o s t - p a n d e m i c , a d d r e s s i n g housing affordability, and navigating the complexities of Brexit's impact on Ireland

Varadkar's leadership style, noted for its pragmatism and focus on social issues such as healthcare and equality, must also contend with global economic uncertainties and domestic pressures His ability to maintain coalition unity and respond effectively to these challenges has taken a toll and he has chosen to resign

Of the three Indian leaders, one is guaranteed to win another term, one dropped out and the other almost guaranteed to lose according to polls

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Watchdog finds Foreign Office merger diminished aid

T h e U K 's c ap ac i ty a nd expertise in fo reign aid have suffered a d ecline since the m erg er o f I nt ern ati o n al D ev el op m en t i nt o th e F oreign Office, according to t h e U K 's p ub li c s p en d i ng w atchdog

T h e N a t i o n a l A u d i t O f f i c e , r e s p o n s i b l e f o r reporting to Parliament on public spending, highlighted that the consolidation overs e e n b y B o r i s J o h n s o n resulted in the loss of dedicated senior roles in devel-

opment

This has compromised the credibility and accountability of the UK's development efforts, exacerbated by government cuts to the aid budget following the aband o n m e n t o f t h e 0 7 % o f n a t i o n a l i n c o m e s p e n d i n g target Charities echoed the NAO s assessment, citing a lack of preparation and cons u l t a t i o n s u r r o u n d i n g t h e merger of the Foreign Office a n d t h e D e p a r t m e n t f o r International Development

in 2020

W h i l e t h e N A O a c k n o w l e d g e d p r o g r e s s i n the merger, it emphasised the need for further clarific a t i o n o f d e p a r t m e n t a l needs, resolution of remaining HR and IT issues, and a d v a n c e m e n t o f c u l t u r a l t r a n s f o r m a t i o n A d d i t io n a l l y , i t n o t e d t h a t t h e merger incurred a cost of at l e a s t £ 2 4 m i l l i o n , w i t h potential benefits and savi n g s n o t b e i n g e f f e c t i v e l y tracked

Thousands of UK nurses departing for foreign work annually

Nearly 9, 000 foreign nurses annually are dep arting th e UK to pursue employment a bro a d, c o ntr ib u tin g t o a su dden su rge in nurses leavi ng the already understaffed NHS fo r better- payi ng positions elsewhere

The increasing number of nurses from outside the E U s e e k i n g o p p o r t u n i t i e s abroad raises concerns that Britain is increasingly serving as a transitional stop in their careers The migration of UK-registered nurses to

o t h e r c o u n t r i e s d o u b l e d within a year from 2021-22 t o 2 0 2 2 - 2 3 , r e a c h i n g a r e c o r d 1 2 , 4 0 0 , a n d h a s quadrupled since before the o n s e t o f t h e c o r o n a v i r u s pandemic A m o n g t h o s e l e a v i n g last year, seven out of tentotalling 8,680 - originally qualified as nurses outside the UK or EU, with a significant portion hailing from I n d i a o r t h e P h i l i p p i n e s

A c c o r d i n g t o r e s e a r c h b y t h e H e a l t h F o u n d a t i o n ,

many had served in Britain for up to three years Most departing nurses are reloc a t i n g t o t h e U S , N e w Zealand, or Australia, where salaries often surpass those in the UK by nearly double

Experts express concern over these findings, noting that the NHS, already grapp l i n g w i t h a p p r o x i m a t e l y 40,000 nurse vacancies and heavily reliant on foreign recruits, is increasingly disadvantaged in the global talent competition

Stranded alongside Begum, British jihadi appeals repatriation

A British jihadi bride, W ajda Rash id, is ap pealing to the UK t o re p a t r ia te h er f ro m a d e te n ti o n c a m p i n Sy r ia , w here she describes the situation as a "ticking time bo mb" a lo ngside Sh am im a B egum , w ho is al so detained there

A c c o r d i n g t o a c a m p commander, there are 19 UK w o m e n a n d 3 5 c h i l d r e n d e t a i n e d i n a s i n g l e c o mpound, a significantly higher figure than previously estimated All 35 ISIS brides have had their citizenship stripped by the UK government, citing

concerns over national security R a s h i d , a g e d 4 5 f r o m Leeds, expresses regret over her decision to leave the UK in 2015 with her husband to join the so-called 'caliphate' She is now pleading for her and her son, Adam, aged 9, to be allowed to return to the UK, citing the need for medical treatment due to shrapnel injuries " I m i s s m y f a m i l y s o much My mum, my dad, my brothers And I just want to go back and live with them

and never ever go out of the country ever I am traumatised," Rashid told The Mail on Sunday Rashid, who was a teacher, uses crutches due to injuries sustained in an air strike Her husband, Yasser I q b a l , a g e d 4 6 f r o m Birmingham, is reportedly in a men's prison in northern Syria after being captured R a s h i d a n d B e g u m a r e among tens of thousands of i n d i v i d u a l s c o n f i n e d t o detention camps in northeast S y r i a s i n c e t h e c o l l a p s e o f ISIS in 2017

Review initiated for sentence of teen’s murderer

A rev iew of the sentencing termed as "undu ly lenient" for a 32-year-old man conv ic te d o f th e m u rd er o f British Ind ian teenage m edical student Grace O'M alley K um ar and two others in Nottingham last year concluded on Mo nd ay

The review, conducted b y H i s M a j e s t y ' s C r o w n P r o s e c u t i o n S e r v i c e

Inspectorate (HMCPSI), recommended the government to consider re-categorising homicide The review found that the CPS had adhered to l e g a l r e q u i r em e n t s a n d f u lfilled their oblig a t i o n s t o t h e families involved

However, the case also unders c o r e d a r e a s where the famil i e s c o u l d h a v e r e c e i v e d b e t t e r s u p p o r t d u r i n g w h a t w a s described as an "incredibly difficult process" "This was a horrific and tragic case V a l d o C a l o c a n e b r u t a l l y killed three innocent peop

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Council leader responds to racist online abuse

Th e Oldh am cou ncil leader h as respo nd ed to a surg e in online harassment, attributing th e behavio ur to i nc i d en ts d u ri ng council meeting s th at h a v e " e nc o u rag ed , enabled, and em bo ldened " o nli ne rac is ts and abusers

I n a n e m a i l addressed to all councillors, Cllr Arooj Shah urged for a shift towards a "more inclusive and welcoming" political environment in Oldham

The Oldham Labour leader linked the increase in online hate to a recent tumultuous Full Council meeting, where members faced frequent heckling from councillors and the public This plea comes amid heightened awareness of racial discrimination in UK politics, with recent incidents including racist comments directed at Diane Abbott by a prominent Tory donor and accusations that Keir Starmer was not listening to Labour race advisor Baroness Lawrence

Cllr Shah expressed fear for her safety and that of her family, urging councillors to refrain from personalised abuse and attacks within their own groups She highlighted the normalisation of racial abuse, such as jokes about Asian councillors, and emphasised the importance of standing against racism regardless of the perpetrators

Referencing a pledge made by council leaders in 2021 to focus on "policy and not personality" in local politics, she shared screenshots of abusive messages she had received online to illustrate the real consequences of personalised abuse and targeting

Among the messages shared in the email, taken from Facebook and other platforms, was a call to physically harm and murder her

Jeremy Hunt warns UK after Moscow terror attack

F o ll o w i ng th e M o s c o w t err o r attack which left at least 14 3 d ead an d 1 50 i nj u re d , th e C h an ce ll o r b eli e v es t h e U K mu st be “ on ou r gu ard” and “ v igilant”

I n a n i n t e rv i e w w i t h S k y ’ s S u n d a y M o r n i n g with Trevor Phillips, when asked about any possible attack on home soil, Jeremy Hunt said Britain’s intelligence services are the “ very best in the world”

in brief

HUNT WANTS FAIR WASPI COMPENSATION

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt emphasised that compensation for Waspi women impacted by changes to the pension age must be "fair" to taxpayers, amidst estimates suggesting it could cost up to £10 5 billion Hunt indicated that organising payouts for the millions of affected women would "take time," cautioning that there isn t an unlimited pool of funds available He reiterated that the funds for compensation would come from taxpayers emphasising the need for a fair and considered approach His comments follow a recent report suggesting that the Waspi (Women Against State Pension Inequality) group should receive compensation of up to £3 000 each Hunt reiterated the government s commitment to resolving the issue promptly but stressed the need for a fair distribution of resources The Waspi groups argue that millions of women born in the 1950s suffered financial losses due to insufficient information about the increase in their state pension age from 60 to 65, aligning with men Subsequently, the age was further increased to 66 for both genders, with plans to raise it to 67 between 2026-28

SUNAK PREFERS ORIGINAL ENGLAND FOOTBALL KIT

With regards to the new England football shirt designed by Nike Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said “We shouldn’t mess with the national flag” The US sportswear giant has changed the colours of the St George’s Cross the flag of England calling it a playful update ahead of Euro 2024, which starts in June However, the design didn t go well with some fans and former players including some politicians Sunak, who is a fan of Championship side Southampton said he “prefers the original England shirt Nike in its statement, said it “was never its intention to offend” and they intended to celebrate the heroes of 1966 and their achievements Meanwhile, the FA said it was proud of the kit design “It is not the first time that different coloured St George’s Cross-inspired designs have been used on England shirts,” said a spokesman

MICHAEL GOVE GUILTY FOR NOT REGISTERING VIP FOOTBALL TICKETS

"It is unimaginable having to d e a l w i t h t h e d e a t h o f a loved one under such horrific circumstances, but having to deal with the criminal justice system at a time of heartbreak and grief adds a further dimension of challenge

To better support vict i m s a n d

n c r e a s e p u b

trust, we call on the government to consider amending the homicide law, review the support provided to victims o f c r i m e i n s e r i o u s c a s e s s u c h a s t h i s , a n d p r o v i d e greater clarity about the role of victims in the criminal justice system," he said

According to Russian news agency Tass, Russian security services detained eleven people following the atrocity at the Crocus City Hall music venue Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the killings on Friday and on Saturday it released a graphic video of their massacre, filmed on body cams

The Chancellor said that any loss of civilian life is “horrific” even if it “happens in countries whose governments we strongly disapprove of”, adding “We can only hope that the perpetrators are caught ”

Amid attempts by the Kremlin to link the attacks to Ukraine, which was dismissed by Kyiv, Mr Hunt said the UK should be vigilant that news from Moscow should be treated with a “massive pinch of salt” and that it was “creating a smokescreen of propaganda”

After gathering intelligence in March that A f g h a n i s t a n - b a s e d I s l a m i c S t a t e - K h o r a s a n (IS-K) was planning an attack in Russia’s capital, the US embassy in Moscow had warned its citizens to stay away from large groups

Michael Gove breached standards rules during the Covid pandemic, by failing to register hospitality he enjoyed with a Conservative donor whose company was awarded personal protective equipment contracts, parliament’s sleaze watchdog has found Following the Guardian report of his failing to register hospitality he received at a Queens Park Rangers football match in August 2021 alongside David Meller a donor whose firm he had referred to the PPE contracts the housing secretary was placed under investigation last month Six PPE contracts worth £164m to Meller’s company Meller Designs Later Gove wrote a letter to the registrar of members financial interests on 19 and 23 February acknowledging that he had failed to register four interests: free hospitality at that match and two more QPR football matches, and a role as an unpaid governor of the Ditchley Foundation In August 2021, Gove was still minister for the Cabinet Office when he received VIP hospitality at QPR’s match against Millwall with Meller

Cllr Arooj Shah

Jeremy Hunt

Grace O'Malley Kumar

CII recommences UK India Business Forum

T he C o n f e d er a t i o n o f I n d i a n I n du s t r y r e c omm e n c e d t he U K I n d i a Bus ines s Forum (I BF) i n L on d o n o n 19 M a r c h

2 0 2 4 A f o r um o f t op In dian busin esses prese nts in the UK, it would act as a v i t a l n e tw o r k i n g a n d k n o w le d g e - s h a r i n g pl a tf or m fo r e n ha n c i n g th e I n d i a n e c o n om i c f oo tprint i n the U K S p e a k i n g a t t h e r e c o m m e n c e m e n t , H i s E x c e l l e n c y V i k r a m D o r a i s w a m i , H i g h Commissioner of India to the UK and CII IBF Patron

HE Vikram Doraiswami

critical areas such as trade and investment, technology and innovation, climate action, the future of w o r k , s k i l l s a n d e d u c at i o n B y c o l l a b o r a t i n g

s a i d , “ F r o m t h e t o w e l s used in the centre court in Wimbledon, to the Jaguar Land Rover cars that mini s t e r s a n d r o y a l t y h e r e drive, from hotels to techn o l o g y c o m p a n i e s , f r o m medicines to 80% of Covid jabs by Serum Institute of India and Wockhardt in the UK, there is hardly any sphere in the UK that is not touched by the India relationship ” “ T h e I B F h a s h u g e value for us in plugging the knowledge gap, in creating a space in the relat i o n s h i p f o r t h e f u t u r e through supporting business, investment and core strengths of our society which is openness, educat i o n , a n d t h e a b i l i t y t o take advantage of the brilliant innovation that happ e n s i n o u r l a b s a n d r e s e a r c h i n s t i t u t e s a n d b r i n g i t t o m a r k e t , ” h e added

The platform actively t a c k l e s c o m m o n c h a llenges encountered by the Indian business community operating in the UK Given the ongoing negotiations for an FTA between I n d i a a n d t h e U K , t h i s platform gains even more s i g n i f i c a n c e , p a r t i c u l a r l y with the escalating levels o f b i l a t e r a l t r a d e a n d

investment India-UK FTA talks began on January 13, 2022 and 14 rounds of discussion have been held

Keshav R Murugesh, C h a i r o f C I I U K I n d i a Business Forum (UK IBF) a n d G r o u p C E O , W N S , s a i d , “ T h i s i s a c r u c i a l time for both countries to e x t e n d c o o p e r a t i o n i n

Freedom-restricting harassment damaging democracy

In the study titled ‘The Khan review’ , D ame Sara Khan spoke on the growing climate of threats and harassment that is leading to serious c ens orship affec ti ng politic ians and memb ers of the publi c too Terming it ‘freedomrestricting harassment’, Sara said, many of these cohesion risks are “chronic, insidious and often sit below the radar” She added that this threat is attacking academic freedom, press freedom, the arts and cultural sector and civic society Of a nationally representative sample of 1,279

Dame Sara Khan

respondents aged above 16 in the country, 85 per cent believe freedom-restricting harassment is currently prevalent in the UK, while 60 per cent believe the problem is worse than five years ago

According to the

with the UK government, l o c a l b u s i n e s s e s a n d academia, the UK IBF will s t r a t e g i c a l l y s u p p o r t I n d i a n c o m p a n i e s a n d champion 'Brand India' in the UK ” R a v i L i m a y e , C E O , Wockhardt UK speaking at a related event said that t h e U K m a r k e t i s t h e l a r g e s t o v e r s e a s m a r k e t for the company “Onethird of all medicines used by the NHS come from India,” he added C h a n d r a j i t B a n e r j e e , Director General, CII state d , “ T h e U K I B F i s a n exclusive group of corporate members, primarily I n d i a n c o m p a n i e s w i t h existing or planned operat i o n s i n t h e U n i t e d Kingdom With IBF 2 0, the platform provides an o p p o r t u n i t y t o r a i s e s h a r e d c o n c e r n s a b o u t policy and markets with relevant stakeholders ” T h e U K I B F r e c o mmenced at an opportune m o m e n t a s I n d i a - U K bilateral trade crossed £38 billion in the third quarter of 2023 and Indian comp a n i e s a r e t h e s e c o n d l a r g e s t i n v e s t o r s i n t h e UK I n d i a a n d t h e U K s i g n e d a r e s e a r c h a n d innovation agreement in April 2023, which aims to e n a b l e q u i c k e r , d e e p e r collaboration on science, providing a strong framework for science and technology collaboration The UKIBF would provide a platform for further discussions regarding technology collaboration

gathered evidence during the study, it shows a widespread phenomenon of extreme forms of harassment pushing individuals into silence, self-censoring, or abandoning their democratic rights The

majority of the public who are concerned about the impact of freedomrestricting harassment on individual liberty, feels that it undermines people’s ability to live and speak freely

Sara Khan pointed out that while the Defending Democracy Task Force is trying to reduce the risk of foreign interference to the UK’s democratic processes, they lack to pay attention to the chronic threat to democracy from domestic and non-state actors engaged in disinformation, conspiracies and extremism

High Commissioner of India to the UK

(L-R): Ravi Limaye OBE – Managing Director Wockhardt UK Keshav Murugesh – Chairman CII UK IBF and Group CEO WNS Shehla Hasan – Director and Head, CII UK

A B A N G L A D E S H I W A Y O F R A M A D A N

Di na Begum, a cookboo k auth or and p assio nate a dvo c ate fo r B angl ade sh ' s cu linary heritage, sh owcase s th e ri c h ta p e st ry o f recipes and foo d traditio ns f r o m h e r h o me l an d A m em b er o f t h e Gu i l d o f F ood Wri ters , Dina h as co ntributed a feature and recip e s e ri e s t o Gr ea t B ri ti s h Ch efs, exploring the s ix seaso ns of Bangladeshi cu isine

She has curated popular Bangladeshi pop-up events at Darjeeling Express, highl i g h t i n g b e l o v e d h o m ecooked favourites as part of t h e i r # W o m e n I n F o o d series She has also participated in programs at The Museum of Food and Drink (MOFAD) and hosted a supper club at Archestratus in New York City

Here, she discusses the t r a d i t i o n a l B a n g l a d e s h i r e c i p e s r e n o w n e d d u r i n g R a m a d a n a n d e m p h a s i s e s the importance of incorporating nutrition into meals w h i l e f a s t i n g t h r o u g h o u t the day

How do you personally approach coo king duri ng Ramadan, and ho w h as t h i s f es t i ve p e ri o d i nf luenced you r cu li nary style?

Traditionally, our everyday meals undergo signific a n t c h a n g e s d u r i n g Ramadan, with an emphasis on sharing dishes that are unique to this time of year

This leads to a notable shift in cooking styles, particularly during the evenings For

example, we enjoy dishes s u c h a s c h a n n a b h u n a , a c h i c k p e a - b a s e d d e l i c a c y , and Khichari, a Bangladeshi variation of a popular South A s i a n d i s h A d d i t i o n a l l y , s t a p l e s l i k e l e n t i l f r i t t e r s and a variety of salads and fruits form the core components of our Ramadan Iftar m e a l G r i l l e d c h i c k e n , samosas, biryani, or pilaf are a l s o c o m m o n a d d i t i o n s , c o n t r i b u t i n g t o a d i v e r s e a n d d i s t i n c t m e n u A d d i t i o n a l l y , H a l i m i s a popular choice for the meal after breaking the fast It's a rich dish enjoyed later in the meal Beyond these core ingredients, our Ramadan meals often incorporate different culinary influences We might experiment with Chinese-inspired dishes one day, and Mediterranean or Middle Eastern flavours the n e x t T h e s e d i s h e s , a l o n g with others, constitute the c o r e c o m p o n e n t s o f t h e Iftar meal, which typically includes a variety of items c o m m o n i n B a n g l a d e s h i cuisine

Wha t n u tr i ti o n al r eco mmendatio ns wo uld you suggest fo r individuals t o e ns u r e th ey m ai n ta i n adequ ate n utriti on duri ng this p erio d?

During fasting periods, prioritising nutrition is crucial, and the first priority should always be hydration I t ' s e s s e n t i a l t o i n c l u d e h y d r a t i n g f o o d s , s o w e a l w a y s h a v e f r u i t s d u r i n g Iftar and after the fast as well Incorporating a variety of fruits, particularly those with high water content like melons, apples, and pears, is b e n e f i c i a l A d d i t i o n a l l y , o p t i n g f o r w a t e r o r f r u i t juices over sugary drinks is advisable It's also import a n t t o i n c l u d e a d e q u a t e protein to help keep you feeling full for longer When breaking the fast, opt for hydrating fruits and dishes that are not too greasy or h e a v y G r i l l e d f o o d s l i k e chicken or fish, along with staple dishes like Khichuri and chickpeas, provide both nutrition and satisfaction Including plenty of fruits a n d v e g e t a b l e s i n y o u r meals is essential For the pre-dawn meal, known as Sehri, focus on nutritious o p t i o n s l i k e p o r r i d g e o r yoghurt with fruits These options provide sustained energy and essential nutrients to prepare for the day ahead You can also include some protein, such as chicken or fish, to make it a balanced meal

Dina also provides readers with a special recipe from her book "Made in Bangladesh" to try this Ramadan: Patishapta, rice crêpes filled with cardamom rice cream

v 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

v FOR THE BATTER

v 75 g (21⁄2 oz/scant 2⁄3 cup) fine semolina

v 75 g (21⁄2 oz/scant 1⁄2 cup) rice flour

v 150 g (51⁄2 oz/1 1⁄4 cups) plain (all-purpose) flour

v 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

v 1⁄8 teaspoon salt

v 250 ml (8 fl oz/1 cup) full fat milk

v 250 ml (8 fl oz/1 cup) room-temperature water

v FOR THE KHEER FILLING

v 30 g (1 oz) rice flour

v 30g (1 oz/1⁄4 cup) fine semolina

v 400 ml (14 fl oz/generous 11⁄2 cups) full-fat milk

v 1⁄4 teaspoon ground cardamom several strands of saffron

v 230 ml (8 oz) condensed milk

1 Begin by combining semolina, rice flour, plain flour, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl to make the batter Pour in milk and measured water, whisking w e l l t o e n s u r e n o l u m p s r e m a i n Cover the mixture and set it aside for 1 hour

2 While the batter rests, prepare the kheer filling by placing all the ingredients except the condensed milk into a saucepan Stir the mixture thoroughly and cook over low-medium heat for 10-12 minutes, continuously stirring Add the condensed milk and continue cooking until the mixture thickens to t h e c o n s i s t e n c y o f c h o u x p a s t r y , falling off very slowly Transfer the mixture onto a plate to cool, where it w i l l f u r t h e r t h i c k e n O n c e c o o l e d , d i v i d e t h e k h e e r i n t o 1 6 p o r t i o n s , rolling each into 13 cm (5 in) logs

3 When ready to cook the patishapta, whisk the batter to ensure a uniform mixture, then heat a frying pan over

Sadiq Khan joins British Muslim community Iftar

S ad i q K h a n, M a yo r o f

Lo nd on, was amo ng the disting uished British Mu slims attend ing the annual Iftar hosted by the British Asian

T ru s t a t t h e L o n d o n

G ro sv eno r M ar ri o t H o tel

No t ab le g u e st s i nc lu d ed

g ov ernm ent m inister L ord

T a ri q A h m ad , Ba ro ne ss

S ay ee d a Wa rs i , H i g h C om m issio ner of P akistan to th e U K H E D r

Mo ham mad Faisal, as w ell as B ri ti s h A s i an T ru s t A mbassadors such as mu sic producer Naugh ty Boy and P a ki st an i ac to r S an am Saeed

The British Asian Trust I f t a r b r o u g h t t o g e t h e r a d i v e r s e g a t h e r i n g o f 3 5 0 guests from the South Asian Muslim diaspora, including celebrities, philanthropists, e n t r e p r e n e u r s , b u s i n e s s leaders, professionals, and the Trust’s Ambassadors At the event, guests generously contributed over £250,000 towards the Trust’s Mental H e a l t h p r o g r a m m e s i n P a k i s t a n a n d B a n g l a d e s h , highlighting the often overlooked struggle of mental h e a l t h i s s u e s w i t h i n t h e community

Mayor of London Sadiq

Khan said: “Ramadan is a time for charity and giving a n d t h i s y e a r t h e B r i t i s h Asian Trust has put together a n o t h e r w o n d e r f u l i f t a r event to support those in need of mental health services The Trust’s work has been life-changing for people and I am proud to supp o r t t h e m a g a i n t h i s Ramadan ” S a n a m S a e e d s a i d :

“ P a k i s t a n h a s a g r o w i n g mental health crisis with 50 million people estimated to e x p e r i e n c e m e n t a l h e a l t h i s s u e s b u t a r e u n a b l e t o access support due to stigma, and lack of awareness and services We need to encourage conversations to shine light on mental health issues, so people can stop suffering silently and seek the help they need ” The evening was led by BBC broadcaster and British A s i a n T r u s t A m b a s s a d o r A s a d A h m a d A m o n g t h e n o t a b l e g u e s t s w e r e B a r o n e s s S h a i s t a G o h i r OBE, Rushanara Ali, MP for B e t h n a l G r e e n a n d B o w , serving as Shadow Minister for Investment and Small B u s i n e s s , a n d S h a b a n a M a h m o o d , M P f o r Birmingham, Ladywood

Human Appeal unveils 'Every Adhan' privacy app

low-medium heat Lightly brush the pan with oil using a pastry brush

Once the oil is hot, pour a small ladleful of batter into the pan, swirling it to create a thin crepe, about 15 1⁄2 cm (6 in) in diameter Cook for 1 minute until the batter becomes opaque and bubbles appear on the surface, ensuring the underside remains pale and does not take on too much colour

4 Place a portion of the kheer filling s l i g h t l y o f f - c e n t r e o n t h e c r e p e Immediately lift one side of the crepe with a spatula and fold it over the filling, then fold twice more to form a roll Remove the patishapta from the pan and set it aside on a plate Repeat the process until all the batter and filling are used, greasing the pan after cooking each patishapta Serve immediately or at room temperature

5 Once cooled, store the patishapta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days

Hu m a n A pp e a l, a g l ob a l h u m a n i t a r i a n n o n - p r o fi t , ha s un veiled "Ev ery Adha n," a f r e e s m a r t p r a y e r a p p de sig ned t o prov ide a pre cise 7 -d a y fo r e c a s t o f p r a y e r t im e s a n d Q ibla d ir e ct io n worldwide while safeg uarding use r priva cy The app boasts a userfriendly interface and does not necessitate any sign-in or account registration It offers users access to 14 different calculation methods based on their location to deliver accurate prayer time

and Qibla information Its s i m p l i c i t y a n d f o c u s o n essential features make it an invaluable tool for Muslims seeking a reliable and secure m e a n s t o o b s e r v e t h e i r prayer times

O w a i s K h a n , D e p u t y CEO of Human Appeal, state d , " E v e r y A d h a n a l l o w s users from any corner of the globe to access prayer time and Qibla information while e n s u r i n g f u l l p r i v a c y a n d eliminating the risk of pers o n a l d a t a b e i n g c o m p r omised The app neither col-

lects nor transmits any user data, eliminating any possibility of it being accessed or utilised by third parties "

Developed in collaboration with Solja, a digital performance media consultancy, and Playable Technology, a leading provider of innovat i v e t e c h n o l o g y s o l u t i o n s , Every Adhan combines privacy, technology, and faith seamlessly

E v e r y A d h a n i s n o w available worldwide on the App Store for devices running iOS 15 0 or later

Muslim Aid’s guide to fulfilling Zakat obligations

Amidst the multitude of charities offering guidance on Zakat, Muslim Aid stands out as one of the few organisations providing a comprehensive endto-end Zakat guide, ensuring individuals can fulfil t h e i r o b l i g a t i o n s i n a meaningful and impactful way

What sets Muslim Aid a p a r t i s i t s r i g o r o u s approach to Zakat policy, which is annually reviewed and ratified by esteemed M u s l i m s c h o l a r s o f t h e Islamic Council of Europe

(ICE) This process ensures the accuracy and relevance of the Zakat guide, making it one of the most trusted s o u r c e s a v a i l a b l e t o Muslims seeking guidance on charitable giving

In light of the ongoing

cost-of-living crisis and the i m p o r t a n c e o f c h a r i t a b l e giving, Muslim Aid believes that featuring their Zakat guide could not only educate audiences about this e s s e n t i a l a s p e c t o f t h e Islamic faith but also spark m e a n i n g f u l d i s c u s s i o n s about social responsibility and humanitarian efforts Muslim Aid is open to various formats for collabo r a t i o n , i n c l u d i n g i n t e rviews with their experts, panel discussions, or even dedicated episodes exploring Zakat and its role in h u m a n i t a r i a n e f f o r t s B y p a r t n e r i n g w i t h M u s l i m Aid, media outlets have the opportunity to delve deeper into the significance of Zakat and its impact on communities worldwide

Dina Begum

Sadiq Khan

A burst of colours and community spirit

Ev ery year, the v ibrant festiv al of Holi ig nites streets and h earts across India, marking the arriv al of spring with an explo sio n of colo urs, joy, and camaraderie

But beyond the borders of its homeland, Holi finds resonance in various corners of the globe, including the United Kingdom Amidst the m u l t i c u l t u r a l t a p e s t r y o f British society, communities come together to celebrate this festival of colours, infusing the spirit of Holi into t h e i r d i a s p o r i c e x p e r i e n c e A l o n g s i d e t h e e x u b e r a n t splashing of colours, another integral facet of Holi, the Holika Dahan, also holds sign i f i c a n c e , s y m b o l i s i n g t h e triumph of good over evil and the onset of auspicious beginnings

Holi celebrations at National A ssociation of Patid ar Samaj O n S u n d a y , 2 4 M a r c h ,

the festivities of Holi began with the setup and community members gathering to witness the Holi Puja As the g a t e s o p e n e d , o v e r 2 5 0 0 attendees, including children as young as 3 weeks old, participated in the prayers The q u e u e s e x t e n d e d u p t o Garratt Lane and beyond for over an hour and a half The successful execution of the event was attributed to the d e d i c a t e d e f f o r t s o f C o m m i t t e e M e m b e r s a n d volunteers from the National Association of Patidar Samaj C o lo u r fu l H o li f es ti v i ti es lig ht u p Leicester In Leicester, the vibrant festival of Holi was celebrated with great fervour and e n t h u s i a s m t h r o u g h t h e "Rang Barse" event Hosted a t t h e M a h e r C e n t r e , t h e event saw the participation of over 600 people who joyfully tossed eight different coloured powders into the air, creating a kaleidoscope of hues The festivities culminated with the traditional H o l i k a D a h a n c e r e m o n y , marking the triumph of good over evil A d d i t i o n a l l y , a n o t h e r H o l i k a D a h a n e v e n t t o o k p l a c e a t R u s h e y F i e l d s i n Rushey Mead, further adding to the city's festive spirit The event drew attendees from the local community, including notable figures like Keith

Holi celebrations with Bombay Funkadelic

Vaz, who joined in the celeb r a t i o n o f t h i s a u s p i c i o u s occasion Corfe Castle celebrates Holi in a style T h e B o u r n e m o u t h , P o o l e , a n d C h r i s t c h u r c h I n d i a n C o m m u n i t y Association, in partnership w i t h t h e N a t i o n a l T r u s t , o r g a n i s e d " R a n g B a r s e -

Colours over Corfe Castle "

The event, held on Saturday, 2 3 M a r c h , a t t r a c t e d o v e r 3,000 attendees to the castle g r o u n d s , w h i c h w e r e adorned to embrace the fest i v e o c c a s i o n V i s i t o r s e n j o y e d f r e e e n t r y t o t h e event, where they were prov i d e d w i t h b i o d e g r a d a b l e coloured powder to participate in the joyful celebrations

Remembering Shreela Flather

C remation and celebration of the life of Baroness S hreela Flather was held at Easth amp stead Park C rematorium, Bracknell on 22 March 20 24

A special tribute was paid through “Remembering Shreela Flather”, including display of photographs, readi n g s , m e m o r i e s a n d m u s i c w i t h t h e e x t r a c t s f r o m Geetanjali, Let Me Go, Mental Flight, Raga Bhimpalasi and Hanuman Chalisa were all connected to Baroness Flather Early memories were shared by her son Paul Flather while her younger son Marcus Flather read the verses from The Bhagavad Gita Earl (Freddie) Howe also paid tribute Lord Bhikhu Parekh, Lord Karan Bilimoria, Lord Jitesh Gadhia, Baroness Usha Prasher, Theresa May MP and CB Patel were some of the prominent dignitaries who were there to pay their respects to Baroness Flather

Finding peace amid life's constant changes

Rohit Vadhwana

Change is an in tegral part of life, oft en servin g as its only c onst ant Navigat ing t hrough change is sel dom easy; it can be un set tl in g, d i s ru pt iv e, a n d e ve n pa i n fu l Vent urin g out of one's comfort zone to embrace n e w c i rc ums t a n ce s , e ven w h en b en e fic i al , is a daunting t ask for many The apprehen sion towards change an d t he difficulty in accept ing it can somet imes be count erproduc tive, causing us t o miss out on potent ial benefits

If you find yourself in a situation that's emotionally taxing and challenging to manage, pause for a moment to consider whether you're undergoing a period of change Reflect on whether this change is a result of your own choosing or has been thrust upon you Should the change be self-initiated, reassess its advantages If it's imposed, approach it with a nuanced understanding of the potential new scenario Consider whether this change aligns with your desires and if it could potentially enhance your p r o f e s s i o n a l , s o c i a l , o r f a m i l i a l l i f e E m b r a c i n g change might be worthwhile if it seems favorable

Innovation and growth are impossible without altering the status quo The transformation of a caterpillar into a butterfly, though arduous, culminates in a rewarding outcome Likewise, we may encounter transformative phases in our lives that unveil our inner potential, mirroring the natural world's constant evolution Lao Tzu, the ancient Chinese philosopher, encapsulates the wisdom of adapting to change: "Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes Don't resist them; that only creates sorrow Let reality be reality Let things flow n a t u r a l l y f o r w a r d i n w h a t e v e r w a y t h e y l i k e " Embracing change allows us to live in harmony with the natural order

The reluctance to face life's changes, despite the emotional strife they may cause, is often unfounded Transformation is impossible without change, and we too must welcome it Resisting change might distort the positive outcomes awaiting us By giving change a chance, we open ourselves to possibilities that may surpass our expectations, leading to outcomes far more profound than we could have imagined

(Expressed opinions are personal)

Krishan Dev Ralleigh (1933-2024)

Mr Ralleigh was reportedly the founding member

before becoming general secretary and president of the Hindu Centre London He was also the secretary of the South Asian Friendship Forum from 2006-14 and director of Harrow Council for Racial Equality from 199195 He was a long-standing supporter of the Indian Journalists’ Association in the UK (established May 1947) and treasurer at the IJA for a year from 2019

He is survived by wife Vijay and three children Gita, Rohit and Raman

Keith Vaz celebrating Holi in Rushey Mead

Besharam Rang Holi

Holika Dahan at National Association of Patidar Samaj

Holi festivities at Corfe Castle

No clues? TV detective Shivaji Satam encourages South Asians to take advantage of free blood pressure checks at the pharmacy

TV detec ti ve Shi vaji Satam is supportin g a n ew c ampai gn to en courage South Asi ans a ge d 40 an d over to tak e up free blood press u re c he c ks a t t he i r lo c al pa rt i ci p at i ng pharm acy The a ward-wi nnin g s tar of ‘CID’ i s famous for solving c ri mes , but Shi vaji hi ghli ghts that high b lood pressure can b e a ‘si lent killer’ that often lea ve s no c lue s:

“High blood pressure can be really serious If left untreated it could increase your risk of a fatal heart attack or stroke High blood pressure usually has no symptoms and the only way to know if you've got it is to get a blood pressure check ”

As a community, we are very aware that we ’ re prone to high blood pressure, but this doesn’t always translate into us keeping on top of it A recent survey commissioned by NHS England found that over 3 in 5 (62%) of South Asians thought that their blood pressure was ‘normal’, which could be stopping people from getting checked Under half (47%) of South Asian respondents said they would have a blood pressure check to see if they had high blood pressure, with a similar proportion (46%) thinking that they would experience symptoms if they actually had high blood pressure In fact, it usually presents with no symptoms

Shivaji is familiar with this pattern in his friends and family: “People think you can tell if you have high blood pressure, but there are often no obvious clues to follow and there is a lot of misinformation about For example, even if you don’t eat much salt, you ’ re not overweight and you have no family history of high blood pressure – you may still have high blood pressure yourself

T h e o n l y w a y t o f i n d o u t i s t o g e t i t checked, which can be done at your local p h a r m a c y f o r f r e e , i n p r i v a c y , w i t h o u t needing to book an appointment ”

Millions of people could be living with high blood pressure without knowing, but now it is easy to find out, as your local p h a r m a c y o f f e r s f r e e b l o o d p r e s s u r e checks You can walk into a participating

pharmacy and ask for one with no appointment needed, so you can easily fit it into your day or combine it with a quick trip to the shops

C h i e f M e d i c a l O f f i c e r f o r E n g l a n d , Professor Sir Chris Whitty further presses the importance of getting your blood pressure checked: “High blood pressure usually has no symptoms but can lead to serious health consequences such as a fatal heart attack, a stroke, kidney disease and vascular dementia The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to get a simple, non-invasive blood pressure test Even if you are diagnosed, the good news is that it’s usually easily treatable Getting your blood pressure checked at a local pharmacy is free, quick and you don’t even need an appointment, so please go for a check today – it could save your life ”

The free checks are available if you are aged 40 or over, live in England and haven’t had a recent diagnosis of high blood pressure, or a check in the last six months Shivaji urges that we each make a commitment today to take control of our health, with a little help from our local pharmacist, and get checked:

“Find out where to get your free blood pressure check, and encourage your friends and family to do the same Together we can create a healthier and happier community ”

Find a pharmac y that offers free blood pr e s s ur e c h ec k s n e ar yo u b y s e a r c hi n g “pharmacy blood pres sure check” or vi siting the N HS website https://www nhs uk/nhsservices/pharmacies/f ind-a-pharmacy-thatoffers- free- blood- pressure-checks/

Bed bug fears threaten 2024 hotel bookings

Fear of bed bugs is threatening hotel b ookings in 2 02 4, with a 278% ri se in bed b ug levels over the las t two years in UK hotels, according to data from Spotta

The surge has caused a 289% increase in complaints on Booking com, alarming travellers Worries about bed bugs have deterred nearly a quarter of British consumers from booking accommodations this year Travel expert Simon Calder w a r n s o f l o n g - t e r m e f f e c t s o n t r a v e l b e h a v i o u r i f t h e i s s u e i s n o t s w i f t l y addressed by the hospitality industry

A new omnibus poll reveals that 63% of Brits believe hotels should be more transparent about their bed bug protection policy, with 56% willing to prioritise establishments offering a bed bug protection promise Consumers are even willing to pay extra for such assurances, with 66% agreeing to an additional £1 per night

Spotta, in response to consumer concerns, is launching a Bed Bug Protection Promise ahead of the Easter holiday season, encouraging hotels to adopt the logo to provide reassurance to guests M&L Hospitality, a major hotel group, is supporting Spotta's technology to ensure guest safety and invests in the company's mission to protect the hospitality indust r y S i m o n C a l d e r c o l l a b o r a t e s w i t h Spotta to raise awareness of the initiative, urging travellers to inquire about bed bug preventative measures before booking and emphasising the importance of transparency in maintaining consumer confidence

India all set for elections

As India gears up for the 2024 elections, citizens need to contribute their perspectives to enrich the democratic process Welcoming different viewpoints creates a more inclus i v e c o n v e r s a t i o n , e n s u r i n g e v e r y o n e ' s v o i c e i s h e a r d Openness in political agendas and holding candidates accountable are essential, enabling voters to make proper and practical choices In the digital era, combating misinformation and promoting digital literacy is essential for fair electoral discourse Continuous evaluation of electoral reforms is necessary to enhance the integrity of elections

Despite some chaos stemming from the data released about the electoral bonds, the BJP has maintained its momentum The car rally recently organised in the UK and many other countries reflects the strong support of the BJP party With Kejriwal's arrest, the AAP party may find it challenging to navigate through this period of uncertainty and uphold its political objectives during this election The current condition strongly indicates that the Modi wave is set to sweep once again, leading to a grand victory Saurabh Desai

Impact of the new immigration policies

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the recent decision by the UK government to prohibit Health and Care Worker visa holders from bringing dependents with them to the UK This decision has triggered controversy and raised serious questions about the government s immigration policies and their impact on the healthcare sector and immigrant families

The Health and Care Visa is crucial for healthcare professionals and workers who play a vital role in the UK's health and social care sector However, by denying these workers the right to bring their families, the government is not only disregarding fundamental human rights but also creating unnecessary hardship for individuals who have dedicated themselves to serving the community that too when NHS is in really bad shape

As highlighted in your article dated 23 March 2024, reputable home care providers are already facing difficulties delivering care visits due to visa-related obstacles This shows the urgent need for a more compassionate and sensible approach to immigration policy that considers the needs of both workers and the communities they serve

Krishna S hah

World TB Day

PM Modi announced a target to free India from TB by 2025 five years ahead of a globally set deadline in the End-TB Summit

In one of the previous Union budgets, 600 crores were allocated for nutritional support to TB patients, to achieve its goal of Tuberculosis elimination 24th March observed as World TB Day, is a tribute to Dr Robert Koch for it is on this day he discovered the cause of the TB Bacillus - and to create public awareness about the epidemic of Tuberculosis and to eliminate the disease Tuberculosis affects a large percentage of the population every year, yet if detected early it can be cured Let us team up(unite) to end TB TS Kart hik

Easter

Easter is a Christian festival which celebrates the belief of the rejuvenation of Jesus Christ Although a holiday of high religious significance in the Christian faith, numerous traditions associated with Easter date back to pre-Christian, heathen times

The festival falls on March 31 this year and will be celebrated all across the globe Maundy Thursday and the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on Good Friday is a part of the Holy Week celebrations which end on Easter Sunday Jubel D'C ruz

Soneri Sangat

Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar celebrated Holi with its readers, through their innovative zoom program series, 'Soneri Sangat' on 21 March 2024 Achyut Sanghvi, News Editor of Gujarat Samachar shared his insight about the Holi festival and its significance

Dr Vinod Kapashi, a renowned Jain scholar, served as the guest speaker for the event During an interactive discussion with Jyostnaben Shah, Consulting Editor of Gujarat Samachar, Dr Kapashi elaborated on the significance and principles of Jainism He drew comparisons between Jainism, Hinduism, and Buddhism, as well as e x p l o r e d c o n n e c t i o n s w i t h t h e e p i c M a h a b h a r a t a Additionally, Dr Kapashi discussed the significance of the Chha(6) Gaon Yatra and the importance of holy Palitana one of the most sacred pilgrimage for followers of Jainism He also highlighted significant days (tithis) observed by Jains Explore the comprehensive coverage of this event in this week’s Gujarat Samachar, available on page 22 Visit our you tube p age (@ abplgro up8772) to view th e v ideos of this zoom series

Is our NHS in the doldrums?

There was a time when the NHS was the envy of the world People would throng from all around the world to make maximum use of our excellent facilities! Sadly it is a distant dream, a distant memory, as it has detoriated beyond belief! How come this nation ruled by one-eyed Jack politicians is going from bad to worse, without the public raising a finger in protest? Are our people as gullible as our self-believing, Ivory Tower tenants whose motto is to stay in power as long as possible, by any means, fair or foul and the public can go to hell?

Yes, we Brits are poor at complaining We are the last ones to get compensation while on holiday, well behind the Germans and French if something goes badly wrong!

As I was a frequent traveller to the Continent, mostly as a tourist, visiting their hospitals regularly, I was indeed surprised at their dedication and professionalism whenever we had to visit their hospitals

For the most part, you will be able to see a doctor on arrival and admitted into the hospital if it is needed, no waiting for a bed to be made available as is the norm is in this country, so often the patient is left on a trolley, in a corridor for hours, if not days, before a bed is freed, sometimes sending a patient home even if the patient may need few more days in hospital So often they have to be readmitted, a waste of time and money to save a few quids!

Yet all these can be avoided if only our politicians become a bit patriotic; concentrate more on the home front and less on hugging the limelight on the international stage! EU patients have to pay a small fee as soon as they are seen, a d m i t t e d a n d r e f u n d a b l e b y t h e i r p r i v a t e i n s u r a n c e provider They cannot access any facility without their ID T h i s , f o r t h e m o s t p a r t , r u l e s o u t t i m e w a s t e r s , a n d hypochondriacs who are ever present at our A & E whenever I have the misfortune to visit

Our “Overseas Aid Budget” is one of the highest in the world, spending, or rather wasting our well-earned money on fancy projects no one would tolerate in this country or going straight into the overseas bank accounts of corrupt politicians, at a time when the money is badly needed on the home front

We still think we have an empire to run, to police the world, to keep peace and to go to the aid of any country if we think it is being attacked by Russia, China or any unfriendly nation in our eyes We are no better than oneeyed Jack, ruling over a barren land!

The answer given by a Russian when questioned by a BBC journalist was indeed a surprise He said, “Yes, we know what you may call a democracy, sometimes with less than 30% of the eligible people voting Your way of life with pubs taking a central stage, a vast difference between the lifestyle at the top and the bottom, have and have never been so large, so wide!

Well, we are happy to leave you alone, and enjoy your lifestyle, so why don’t you do the same and leave us alone? There is no perfect solution that could be the answer to all our problems! It has to be live and let us resolve our problems in a way better suited to our local economy, our preferred living style!

Bhup endra M Gandhi

April 1997, when HH Pramukhswami Maharaj, amidst his travels in the UAE, paused in a desert near Sharjah, deep in thought under the blazing sun, leaving onlooke r s p u z z l e d A f t e r s o m e t i m e , h e uttered, "May a temple be established in Abu Dhabi, fostering closer ties among countries, cultures, and reli-

Man sentenced for five years for stalking

After embarking on a relentless camp aig n of stalking and blackmail, a fifty-year-old man fro m Slo ugh has been sentenced to five years

Amir Khan

In a hearing at Reading Crown Court on Friday, March 15, Amir Qayum Khan, 50, of Slough was found guilty by a unanimous jury Khan pursued a woman in her t h i r t i e s t h r o u g h e x c e s s i v e a n d abusive messages, through means of different social media accounts, between September 2, 2021 and February 3, 2023

The court heard that he contacted the victim, her place of work, her family and her friends repeatedly during the conduct This impacted the victim’s life and hurt her day-today activities causing her distress

Detective Sergeant Tom Harman, of Slough CID, said: “The nature of the messages was such that the victim felt unable to go about her life, and Khan’s actions were completely unacceptable

“I would like to thank the jury for their diligent consideration of this case, and the lengthy sentence given to Khan reflects the serious nature of his actions

“I would also like to praise the victim for her patience while we carried out this investigation ” Khan was not present for his trial and is believed to have left the country for Pakistan in February while he was on court bail

Sick people leaving workforce in high numbers

The Reso lution Fou nd ation’ s repo rts sug gest the num ber of peo ple leaving the workforce due to long-term sickness is at its hig hest since the 1990s

As per the Foundation’s report, adults economically inactive due to ill health increased from 2 1m in July 2019 to a peak of 2 8m in October 2023 Its recent Budget measures are estimated to boost the labour force by 300,000 workers, the government said The Foundation's report comes after the Office for National Statistics (ONS) declared that more than a fifth of UK adults were not looking for work

"Younger and older people together account for ninetenths of the rise in overall economic inactivity, which could have serious effects both on individual's living standards and career paths," said Louise Murphy, senior economist at the Foundation According to the Foundation, the rise in longterm sickness leaves the UK as the only G7 economy not to have returned to its pre-pandemic employment rate

A spokesperson for the DWP said: "We've reduced the number of workless households by one million since 2010 Our £2 5 billion Back to Work plan will help break down barriers to work for over a million more people and our recent Budget measures are estimated to boost the labour force by an extra 300,000 workers "

gions This vision has now become a reality

Furthermore, CB’s column elaborates on the memorable gathering of 26 September 2007 at BAPS Neasden T e m p l e , w h e r e C B h i m s e l f was blessed by HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj in his speech talked about CB’s family and how they have been closely associated with BAPS for four generations He also warmly

In this feature, besides the history of Abu Dhabi BAPS temple, you ll gain deeper insights into its cultural, spiritual and historical significance as well We wish you a happy reading!

Channel

4 launches "Untapped" initiative to support underrepresented founders

Shefali Saxena

C hann el 4 Ven ture s un ve ils " U n t a pp e d , " a n i n n ov a t iv e co mme rci al v en tu re ai med a t in vestin g in e ntr epre ne urs o ft en ove rlook ed by tr a dit ional ven ture cap it al chann e ls I n fo r m e d b y r e c e n t r e s e a r ch in d i ca t i n g t ha t a n ar row ra nge of elit e pr ofiles h ist or ically se cure s sig n ifica nt in vestme nt , Unt apped se eks t o dive rsify this lan dscape L e d b y C h a n n e l 4 V e n t u r e s , U n t a p p e d w i l l focus on high-growth businesses led by founders from diverse backgrounds, including considerations such as g e n d e r , e d u c a t i o n , s o c i oeconomic history, race, ethnicity, location, and employment background Through a p i o n e e r i n g f r a m e w o r k , Channel 4 aims to identify a n d i n v e s t i n e a r l y - s t a g e businesses with a broader founder base, encompassing w o m e n , i n d i v i d u a l s f r o m non-elite educational institutions, diverse ethnic backgrounds, and entrepreneurs outside typical startup hubs C h a n n e l 4 V e n t u r e s commits to presenting a sign i f i c a n t p r o p o r t i o n o f potential deals annually to i t s i n v e s t m e n t c o m m i t t e e , focusing on businesses led b y u n d e r r e p r e s e n t e d f o u n d e r s T h i s i n i t i a t i v e aims to inject millions of pounds of media value into s u p p o r t i n g t h e s e e n t r e p r e n e u r s , f o s t e r i n g investment across the UK a n d n u r t u r i n g i n n o v a t i o n Channel 4 Ventures benchmarked the profiles of hund r e d s o f f o u n d e r s t h a t secured investments valuing their companies at £100 million or more since 2013 T h e d a t a i s b a s e d o n analysis of founders’ disclosures of their race and ethn i c i t y , g e n d e r , e d u c a t i o n b a c k g r o u n d , e m p l o y m e n t history and company base 20 March 2024 2 – via analysis o f p u b l i c l y a v a i l a b l e d a t a f r o m L i n k e d I n a n d

Pitchbook I t r e v e a l s t h a t t h e s e founders come from a narrow section of society: • 94% o f f o u n d e r s w e r e m e n ,

d e s p i t e m e n r e p r e s e n t i n g only 41% of all UK graduates • f o u n d e r s a r e f i f t y - o n e times more likely to have graduated from an Oxbridge university or its US equivalents, than a graduate of a university outside the top 100 institutions globally • c o n s u m e r c o m p a n i e s i n L o n d o n , O x f o r d , o r

Cambridge are 11 times more likely to have raised a valuation of £100m+ than a company located anywhere else in the UK • white university g r a d u a t e s a r e t e n t i m e s more likely to have founded a consumer company at a valuation of £100m+ than a black graduate, and nearly twice as likely as an Asian graduate • 67% of founders w e r e e i t h e r p r e v i o u s founders or came from withi n t h e t r a d i t i o n a l s t a r tup/investor ecosystem Vin ay So la n ki, he ad of C h a n n e l 4 V e n t ur e s s a i d , “ U n t a p p e d w i l l e n a b l e

Channel 4 to invest in and incubate high-growth businesses, delivering significant commercial returns to drive forward Channel 4 ’ s distinctive remit The data implies that a wide range of talented founders leading attractive c o m m e r c i a l o r g a n i s a t i o n s are being overlooked by the current ecosystem and we are committed to identifying a n d b a c k i n g t h e m M o r e broadly, Untapped can be a catalyst to grow the UK consumer investment landscape and encourage others to foll o w i n t h e i n v e s t m e n t space ”

Speaking to Asian Voice about his ethnic minority roots, Solanki said, “I believe t h e y ( h i s e t h n i c m i n o r i t y b a c k g r o u n d ) t r u l y i n f l uenced my perspective on the

world, shaping how I i n t e r p r e t i n f o r m ation, observe people, a n d c u l t i v a t e resilience Frankly, I d o n ' t d w e l l o n i t much I see myself as British, that's where m y m i n d s e t l i e s While I have affect i o n f o r I n d i a a n d v i s i t o f t e n , I s t i l l i d e n t i f y a s B r i t i s h England is where I truly feel at home " S o l a n k i f u r t h e r a d d e d , “In terms of our investment a c t i v i t y , w e ' r e l o o k i n g t o b o l s t e r C h a n n e l F o u r ' s reserves based on our latest p u b l i c a c c o u n t s C h a n n e l Four has long been a champ i o n o f u n d e r r e p r e s e n t e d voices, a mission that reso n a t e s d e e p l y w i t h m e I v i v i d l y r e c a l l t h e d a y C h a n n e l F o u r l a u n c h e d when I was seven years old, and since then, it has been a beacon for diverse voices Working for this organisation is incredibly meaningful to me, as it allows me to contribute to the preservat i o n o f a n i n d e p e n d e n t media voice This mission motivates me daily, especially in a crowded media landscape Channel Four's comm i t m e n t t o d i v e r s i t y a n d c h a m p i o n i n g m a r g i n a l i s e d voices is evident in its creative output, as demonstrate d b y t h e s i x O s c a r s i t recently won " T h e i n i t i a t i v e , p a r t o f Channel 4's Fast Forward strategy, aims to expand its portfolio while reinforcing its digital-first public service s t r e a m i n g p l a t f o r m B y leveraging data insights and hosting annual roadshows, U n t a p p e d w i l l f a c i l i t a t e p a r t n e r s h i p s w i t h h i g hgrowth ventures across the UK

Interested parties are invited to submit business proposals to untapped@channel4 co uk by April 17 Channel 4

Ventures will assess founders' self-disclosed data to identify their profiles and conduct annual roadshows to engage with potential partners

Police issue warning over drug dealer who is at large

A

wanted in connection with t h e s e o f f e n c e s a n d t w o other more recent separate attacks

Suspect: Mohammed Kasim Khan

w arned th e pu blic not to a p p ro a ch w an ted M ohamm ed Khan am id an u rgent hunt to trace him A c c o r d i n g t o t h e o f f icers, the 23-year-old, who is wanted for a string of crimes including 'extensive torture' to a young woman, punishes t h o s e w h o p a y h i m l a t e Because of this, the victim was left with a broken nose, severe swelling to the eyes and significant damage to her mental health Khan is

Issuing a fresh appeal for urgent information, police said, “Crimestoppers is supporting the investigation by offering a reward of up to £ 1 0 , 0 0 0 f o r i n f o r m a t i o n that they exclusively receive which leads to the arrest of Khan The reward is available for three months and is due to expire on June 15, 2024 "

Vinay Solanki

The royal family has traditionally been secretive about the health of its members This secrecy dates back to King George VI's death in 1952 when his lung cancer diagnosis was only revealed posthumously Queen Elizabeth II's declining public appearances were vaguely attributed to "episodic mobility p r o b l e m s " u n t i l h e r p a s s i n g i n 2022 at 96, officially from "old age ” Her successor, King Charles I I I , d e p a r t e d f r o m t r a d i t i o n b y announcing his benign enlarged prostate surgery in January, later r e v e a l i n g a c a n c e r d i a g n o s i s i n February Similarly, Princess Kate's h o s p i t a l i s a t i o n f o r a b d o m i n a l surgery was announced traditionally, offering limited details Prince Harry and Meghan also extended their well wishes British P r i m e M i n i s t e r R i s h i S u n a k affirmed the nation's support In h e r v i d e o a n n o u n c e m e n t , K a t e said she and her husband had been doing everything “ we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family,” w h i c h i n c l u d e d t a k i n g t i m e t o recover from her major surgery to start treatment and “most importantly” to explain everything to their three children before going public with the news The children are now away from school on their E a s t e r h o l i d a y b r e a k B a l a n c i n g privacy and public roles is a challenge for royal officials, especially given Kate's high media visibility Social media speculation surged, especially after Prince William's sudden withdrawal from a memorial service Moreover, a digitally altered Mothering Sunday image of Kate and her children stirred controversy, highlighting the delicate balance between privacy and public scrutiny in the royal family T h e s t r e n g t h o f c h a r a c t e r shown by the Princess of Wales a m i d u n f o r e s e e n c h a l l e n g i n g t i m e s f o r t h e y o u n g f a m i l y i s something everyone in the community can learn from Women are not often known to disclose any diseases they have, let alone a n y t h i n g a s l i f e - t h r e a t e n i n g a s Cancer

Following the release of the BBC Studios footage, some viewers around the world and social media users were quick to question why Kate's husband Prince William did not appear alongside her in the video According to The Times, a royal source said: "This was her as a strong woman sharing an innately strong message to the nation She didn't need anyone sitting next to her " They added of the Prince, 41: "He has been supporting her and the family in the background " Princess o f Wales cancer diagnosis p ro mp ts 373% increase in search es fo r NHS advice N e w f i g u r e s f r o m N H S England show that in the 24 hours after the princess revealed she was undergoing treatment last week, there were 2,840 visits to the page on cancer That is nearly 5 times as many as over the same period the previous week when there were 600 visits

There was also a huge surge in visits to the NHS website’s cancer s y m p t o m s p a g e f o l l o w i n g t h e release of the princess’s video mess a g e , w i t h 4 , 1 7 2 v i s i t s i n t h e 3 hours immediately afterwards – an average of 1 every 3 seconds The page had 1,922 visits during the

‘WE LOVE YOU’

same timeframe a week earlier Numbers visiting that page peaked straight after the announcement, with 1,678 visits to the symptoms page between 6 pm and 7 pm last Friday The NHS website includes information on different forms of the disease, spotting early signs and types of treatment

The NHS is seeing and treating record numbers of people for cancer, with almost 3 million people r e c e i v i n g p o t e n t i a l l y l i f e s a v i n g cancer checks in the past year

Sympath y and vigilance

While speaking to Asian Voice, the NHS and medical professionals have expressed sympathy and e n c o u r a g e d v i g i l a n c e f o l l o w i n g t h e P r i n c e s s o f W a l e s ' c a n c e r announcement Cancer Research UK emphasises hope and urges early detection for improved treatment outcomes

C o m m e n t i n g o n t h e announcement by the Princess of

W a l e s , N H S c h i e f ex ec u t i ve Amanda Pritch ard said, “On behalf of the NHS, I’m really sorry to hear this shocking news Our thoughts are with the Princess of Wales and the Royal Family, especially while her treatment continues

We know how difficult a diagnosis and treatment journey can be for patients and their families

Speaking out about it is really brave and it can help others to get w o r r y i n g s i g n s a n d s y m p t o m s checked If you ’ re worried about cancer, the NHS website has more information ”

sonal space, when they’re facing a cancer diagnosis, in the name of p u b l i c i n t e r e s t i s d e p l o r a b l e However, we are thankful to those in a position of power and influence for sharing their challenges coping with a cancer diagnosis, and helping to raise awarenesscancer is a treatable condition, especially when diagnosed early Asian diaspora needs to be vigilant to spot early symptoms and signs of cancer and seek diagnosis early Cancer awareness saves lives ” C h i ef E x ec u t i ve o f C a nc e r R esearc h UK , Mi ch elle Mitch ell told th e newsweekly, “On behalf of everyone at Cancer Research UK, I wish Her Royal Highness a full, swift recovery and return to good health During this difficult time, it’s important that the Princess is given the time and space to focus o n h e r t r e a t m e n t a n d t h a t w e respect the family’s privacy Nearly one in two of us will develop cancer during our lifetimes, but many more are affected when someone they love is diagnosed with cancer Thanks to research there is hopecancer survival has doubled in the last 50 years High-profile cancer cases often act as a prompt to encourage people to find out more or think about their own health If people spot something that's not normal for them or isn't going away, they should check with their GP It probably won t be cancer But if it is, spotting it at an early stage means treatment is more likely to be successful ” P ray ers a nd support from across the globe

expressed deep sadness at Kate's diagnosis, praising her resilience and grace She condemned specu l a t i o n s u r r o u n d i n g K a t e a n d o f f e r e d p r a y e r s f o r h e r s w i f t recovery and continued positive influence on others' lives

Ca nce r do esn’t d iscri minate In an earlier interview with A s i a n V o i c e t h i s F e b r u a r y , a s King Charles III revealed his cancer diagnosis, Keval Sachdev, via S A H A U K , s h a r e d h i s c a n c e r j o u r n e y w i t h t h e n e w s w e e k l y stating that he was diagnosed with Aggressive Lymphoma in 2022, and underwent six months of chemotherapy “Men face barr i e r s i n c a n c e r a w a r e n e s s a n d early detection due to societal p e r c e p t i o n s M y s u p p o r t n e twork, including Leicester Royal Infirmary Hospital and SAHA, was crucial,” he said D r A r j u n G h o s h , a C o n s u l t a n t C a r d i o l o g i s t a t

very good and successful medical treatments available The main treatment will be an operation to remove the cancer and some normal tissue around and to take one or two lymph nodes from under the arm For most people, this operation will take place in one day, and the recovery is very quick Other treatments that we u s e f o r b r e a s t c a n c e r i n c l u d e radiotherapy, which is an x-ray treatment that is given to the b r e a s t a n d t h e l y m p h n o d e s under the arm We also have drug treatments; the most common ones are tablets that people often take for up to five years ” Wome n in the communi ty doi ng th eir bit to sprea d ca ncer awarene ss

The Fashion Brunch, curated by Anisha Vasani, returned on March 8th, celebrating women of diverse backgrounds and challenged differences This year, it emphasised inclusivity with the t h e m e ' i n s p i r e i n c l u s i o n ' T h e runway featured ten brave cancer survivors showcasing designs by Nikaza Asian Couture and Deesh London, sharing their powerful s t o r i e s o f r e s i l i e n c e N o t a b l e a m o n g t h e m w a s K r e e n a Dhiman, a breast cancer survivor w h o f o u n d e d S o u t h A s i a n Supernovas to close the cancer care gap Singer Veronica Mehta, another survivor, highlighted the event s significance in overcoming trauma Anisha Vasani aimed t o u p l i f t w o m e n , s h o w c a s i n g their strength and grace, and prom o t i n g e m p o w e r m e n t b e y o n d beauty norms Held at Courtyard by Marriott, London, the event p a r t n e r e d w i t h R e c o m m e n d A s i a n , a d v o c a t i n g f o r w o m e n ' s s u p p o r t a n d

empowerment Anticipating 3003 5 0 a t t e n d e e s , i t p r o m i s e d a g r a n d c e l e b r a t i o n o f l i b e r t y , recognition, and empowerment Anila Dhami, ITV and Channel 5 N e w s P r e s e n t e r , l a u d e d i t s impact, reflecting the values of International Women’s Day The F a s h i o n B r u n c h c o n t i n u e d t o evolve as a platform for networking, storytelling, and empowerment, embodying the spirit of female strength and resilience I n t h e w a k e o f K a t e Middleton's unexpected cancer diagnosis, a global health concern has surfaced, highlighting a d i s t u r b i n g i n c r e a s e i n c a n c e r cases among individuals under the age of 50 Scientists and medical professionals worldwide are urgently investigating the causes behind what has been described as an 'epidemic' of young-onset c a n c e r s T h i s r i s i n g t r e n d h a s become more pronounced and alarming, especially with highp r o f i l e c a s e s l i k e t h a t o f t h e Princess of Wales bringing significant attention to the issue M e a n w h i l e , K a t e i s b e i n g compared to Lady Diana Her charm, grace, fashion sense, and audacious nature to fight for survival come what may, is also what K a t e r e f l e c t s C e l e b r a t i n g h e r courage, King Charles has said he was “ so proud of Catherine for her courage in speaking as she did” and has “remained in the closest contact with his beloved daughter-in-law throughout the past weeks”, after they spent time in hospital together Continued from page

D r C R Ch an de as e ka r, Co ns u l ta nt O rt h o p a e di c s / S a rc o m a S u r ge o n LU H F T , Liverpo ol, UK told Asian Voice, “ D i a g n o s i s o f c a n c e r i s a l i f echanging event Though two out of three human beings will develop, cancer during their lifetime, the diagnosis still has a fearful stigma However, the majority of the cavers are curable, especially when diagnosed early Hence it’s important to acknowledge that, cancers can occur in any age group anywhere in the body and societal status does not prevent cancer, as s h o w n b y r e c e n t h i g h - p r o f i l e news The unhealthy media interest and obsession with celebrities and royalty, intruding in their per-

Catherine, Princess of Wales, a n d P r i n c e W i l l i a m e x p r e s s e d gratitude for the global support following her cancer diagnosis w h i l e r e q u e s t i n g p r i v a c y T h e palace spokesperson highlighted their appreciation for the outpouring of kindness and emphasised the need for privacy during this challenging time Updates on Princess Kate's condition won't be provided over the weekend to respect the family's space Public figures, including King Charles III, and members of the royal family, have shown support

The US President and First Lady shared a message praying for Kate's recovery An Academy Award winner hailed Kate as a "pillar of grace" in a comment on social media The "Die 4 Me" singer defended Kate's privacy r i g h t s a m i d s p e c u l a t i o n S h e emphasised the unpredictability of public life and the need for understanding The same celebrity had previously defended Kate f r o m c o n s p i r a c y t h e o r i e s A n o t h e r c o m m e n t e n c o u r a g e d focusing on well-wishes for Kate and her family Ivanka Trump

UCLH and Barts Heart Centre working to grow cardio-oncology services had told us, “I believe there should be increased educational outreach efforts at comm u n i t y c e n t r e s o r c o m m u n i t y events to raise awareness about cancer screening and check-ups ” P r a s a n n a S o o r i a k u m a r a n , a Professor and Chair of Urology, and Consultant Urological and R o b o t i c S u r g e o n a t C l e v e l a n d Clinic, London, spoke to us earlier and said, “I feel engaging Asian men with these “taboo” topics is key to raising awareness and saving lives ” Doing its bit, on the occasion o f g o l d e n j u b i l e e c e l e b r a t i o n s , A s i a n V o i c e G u j a r a t S a m a c h a r and organised a special Zoom event on breast cancer awareness to mark the Ethnic Minorities C a n c e r A w a r e n e s s M o n t h (EMCAM) which was attended by p r o m i n e n t c o m m u n i t y l e a d e r s and doctors from the UK and India During the event, one of our speakers, Dr Toral Gathani, MD MEd FRCS, Senior Clinical Research Fellow and Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon at Oxford University said, “We have

Amanda Pritchard

Dr CR Chandeasekar

Toral Gathani

Cancer patients take to the runway

Single

mothers earn 53% less than the average man

Recent researc h h ig hlig hts the stark incom e d isp arities faced by single parents, p articularly wom en, im pacting t h ei r ab il i ty to s av e fo r r eti r em en t R es ea rc h by N OW : P ens i o ns , d a ta rev eals that s ing le fath ers earn 32% less than the av erage man, while single m others face ev en greater challeng es, earning 53% less than m en an d 3 7 % les s t h an w om en on av era g e M o reo v er, s in g l e m o th er s e xh i b it th e lo w e st la bo u r m arket p articipati on rates, f u rth er ex ace rbati ng th e ir p ension savings prospects

Women in the UK retire w i t h s i g n i f i c a n t l y s m a l l e r p e n s i o n p o t s , a v e r a g i n g £69,000 compared to men's £205,000, largely attributed to differences in career traj e c t o r i e s O n a v e r a g e , women spend 10 years away f r o m w o r k f o r c a r e g i v i n g responsibilities, resulting in a £39,000 loss in pension savings D e s p i t e a d v a n c e m e n t s i n g e n d e r e q u a l i t y , t r a d itional caregiving norms pers i s t , d i s p r o p o r t i o n a t e l y affecting women Moreover, many working single mothers are ineligible for workplace pensions under current auto-enrollment rules, m i s s i n g o u t o n e m p l o y e r contributions and tax relief T h i s d i s c r e p a n c y , c o mpounded by high rates of part-time employment, perpetuates the gender pension gap

NOW: Pensions emphas i s e s t h e n e e d f o r p o l i c y i n t e r v e n t i o n s t o a d d r e s s these disparities, advocating for affordable childcare and improved access to pension s c h e m e s T h e P e n s i o n s Policy Institute underscores the broader systemic challenges in labour market conditions and calls for comprehensive policy measures to e n h a n c e r e t i r e m e n t o u tcomes for single parents

Neha Mehta, C EO and F o u n d er , F em T e ch P artners A uth or One Sto p: U ntold Story of S uper Apps told Asian Voice, “In Asia, single mothers face similar

challenges, with many earning significantly less than their male counterparts and experiencing a considerable gap in pension savings “ A c c o r d i n g t o r e c e n t studies, single mothers in Asia earn approximately 37% less than the average man and 25% less than the average woman This disparity is further exacerbated by the f a c t t h a t w o m e n i n A s i a retire with pension savings a v e r a g i n g o n l y a r o u n d $50,000, compared to men's $150,000

“At FemTech Partners, we have been actively worki n g t o w a r d s a d d r e s s i n g these issues by investing in a n d s u p p o r t i n g i n i t i a t i v e s that promote gender equalit y i n t h e w o r k p l a c e W e a d v o c a t e f o r p o l i c i e s t h a t f a c i l i t a t e a c c e s s i b l e c h i l dcare, promote flexible work a r r a n g e m e n t s , a n d e n s u r e equitable pension contribut i o n s f o r a l l g e n d e r s T o c o m b a t t h e p e n s i o n g a p specifically, we have been collaborating with financial institutions and policymake r s t o d e v e l o p i n n o v a t i v e s o l u t i o n s t a i l o r e d t o t h e needs of women, especially single mothers By providing them with access to financ i a l e d u c a t i o n , r e t i r e m e n t planning services, and alternative pension schemes, we aim to bridge the gap in pension savings and empower t h e m t o s e c u r e a s t a b l e financial future

“It is crucial that we continue to push for systemic changes and create an inclusive and fair environment that values and supports the contributions of all individuals, regardless of gender T o g e t h e r , w e c a n w o r k

t o w a r d s a m o r e e q u i t a b l e future for everyone in Asia and beyond ”

S h ai s ta Go h i r O BE ( B aro n es s G o h ir o f H al l G ree n) , C E O o f M u s li m Women’ s Network U K told the newsweekly, “Generally w o m e n n e e d t o b e p a i d more which results in highe r c o n t r i b u t i o n s t o w a r d s their pension by them and e m p l o y e r s W o m e n a r e more likely to take career breaks due to caring respons i b i l i t i e s I f t h e y r e c e i v e c h i l d b e n e f i t s t h e n t h e y receive national insurance credits Similarly, if time is taken out for caring but for a non-child-related reason, they should also receive similar credits Also, better support to help women return t o w o r k a f t e r t h e y h a v e taken a career break due to c a r i n g A l s o , w o m e n a r e o p t i n g o u t o f p e n s i o n schemes due to the cost of living crisis If you can't afford to eat and pay your bills, which is an immediate need then you are not going to be thinking about far into the future

However, the pension situation is worse for minority women as they will face p e n s i o n p o v e r t y i n t h e future A high proportion of b l a c k a n d A s i a n w o m e n , p a r t i c u l a r l y P a k i s t a n i a n d B a n g l a d e s h i w o m e n , h a v e not saved for their pension These women have higher unemployment rates When they are at work, they are more likely to be in lowerp a i d a n d p a r t - t i m e j o b s Those who can afford to pay into a pension sometimes d o n ' t d u e t o t h e l a c k o f knowledge about pensions ”

Shazia Choudhry nominated for UN women's committee

S hazia C houd hry, a d isting u is h ed P ro f es s o r i n th e F aculty of Law and Hackney F ellow in Law at Wadh am C ollege, has been selected as the UK 's nom inee fo r the U N’ s C o m m i tt ee o n th e E l i m in at io n o f D i s cr im in ati o n a g ai ns t Wom en (C EDA W) for the term 2025 to 20 28 E x p r e s s i n g h e r g r a t it u d e , P r o f e s s o r C h o u d h r y stated, "My entire career has been dedicated to advocating for the human rights of w o m e n , p a r t i c u l a r l y through the lens of international law I am deeply honoured and humbled by this nomination for election to CEDAW "

P r o f e s s o r C h o u d h r y ' s research has garnered international acclaim, spanning a c r o s s E u r o p e , A s i a , a n d S o u t h A m e r i c a S h e h a s been invited to present her work by esteemed institutions such as the Supreme Courts of Mexico and Chile, and her research has been cited by the Supreme Court

Prof Adeeba Malik CBE DL becomes the first Asian female High Sheriff for West Yorkshire

Professor Ad eeba Malik

C BE DL h as made history by beco ming th e first ethnic minority female to be appointed as High Sh eriff for West Yorksh ire

In a momentous ceremony held at Leeds High Court on Monday, March 25th, Prof Malik took her Oath of Declaration in the presence of High Court Judge Sir Nicholas Hilliard

The year-long appointment, which is non-political and unpaid, continues a tradition spanning over 1,000 years The Office of High Sheriff, second only to the Crown in its historical significance, dates back to Saxon times and represents the Crown's authority in upholding matters related to the judiciary and law and order

Prof Malik, associated with the Bradford-based national ethnic minorityled charity, the QED Foundation for over 32 years, has played a pivotal role in its transformation into one of the UK's most

influential organisations of its kind

Born in Bradford to Pakistani immigrants, she initially pursued a career in teaching before dedicating herself to creating social and economic opportunities for disadvantaged communities nationwide

Expressing her gratitude for the honour, Prof Malik stated, "It is an enormous honour to take on this important role I look forward to serving my home county and meeting the many different people who do so much good for West Yorkshire "

She emphasised her commitment to supporting individuals and organisations

working towards crime prevention and making a positive impact across communities

As High Sheriff, Prof Malik's formal duties will include attending royal visits throughout West Yorkshire and supporting High Court Judges in their roles

With a distinguished career spanning 27 years across various boards and public bodies, she has been instrumental in facilitating integration and shaping government policy, particularly in areas concerning social disadvantage

Some of these include Yorkshire

Forward, The Waterways Trust, Ethnic Minority Business Forum, Sheffield Hallam University, British Waterways, The Cabinet Office Race Disparity Advisory Board, and the Women and Work Commission

From facilitating integration to shaping government policy, she has become a leading voice for the socially disadvantaged

of Mexico With extensive experience as a lawyer and a Professor of Law, she has focused on gender issues, human rights, and combating violence against women throughout her professional journey

T h e R t H o n K e m i Badenoch, Secretary of State f o r B u s i n e s s a n d T r a d e , President of the Board of T r a d e , a n d M i n i s t e r f o r W o m e n a n d E q u a l i t i e s , c o m m e n d e d P r o f e s s o r C h o u d h r y ' s n o m i n a t i o n , stating, "Shazia is an exceptional candidate who will b r i n g p r o f o

Shaista Gohir OBE

Neha Mehta

Prof Adeeba Malik

Shazia Choudhry

Tradition, trends and celebration of love

Continued from page 1

These ceremonies, spanning v a r i o u s c u l t u r e s s u c h a s I n d i a n , P a k i s t a n i , B a n g l a d e s h i , S r i L a n k a n , a n d N e p a l i , a r e n o t j u s t events but grand spectacles that unite families, communities, and traditions in a joyous union

F r o m e l a b o r a t e p r ewedding rituals to intricate w e d d i n g c e r e m o n i e s a n d lavish post-wedding festivities, South Asian weddings are a fusion of ancient customs and modern extravagance As the anticipation for these weddings continues to r i s e , o u r e s t e e m e d newsweekly, Asian Voice, is proud to introduce a wedding feature that delves into t h e e n c h a n t i n g w o r l d o f South Asian wedding ceremonies

To provide readers with a c o m p r e h e n s i v e u n d e rs t a n d i n g o f t h e s e v i b r a n t celebrations, we've enlisted t h e e x p e r t i s e o f s e v e r a l notable individuals deeply

i n v o l v e d i n t h e w e d d i n g i n d u s t r y P a r u l J a n i , a r e n o w n e d s a r e e d r a p i n g artist who has worked with celebrities and at wedding events

I n a d d i t i o n t o a t t i r e , c a p t u r i n g t h e m a g i c o f S o u t h A s i a n w e d d i n g s t h r o u g h p h o t o g r a p h y i s essential We ve sat down w i t h V i n e e t J o h r i , a s e as o n e d w e d d i n g p h o t o g r apher, to learn about the evolution of wedding photography and the unique challenges and opportunities it presents

A s c e l e b r i t y w e d d i n g s often serve as trendsetters in the world of weddings, our feature also includes an article exploring the influence of celebrity nuptials on wedding trends

We have also covered the realm of wedding tourism in India Often regarded as a dream destination for many, e s p e c i a l l y N o n - R e s i d e n t Indians (NRIs), India's allure as a wedding destination is undeniable

Moreover, we've had the pleasure of interviewing Gita S o o d , a n i n n o v a t i v e a r t i s t known for her creation of b r i d a l s n e a k e r s I n r e c e n t years, bridal sneakers have e m e r g e d a s a t r e n d y a n d practical accessory for South Asian brides

We have also featured an article on wedding trends, w h i c h e x p l o r e s t h e l a t e s t trends in summer weddings, t h e s h i f t f r o m t r a d i t i o n a l w e d d i n g v e n u e s a n d explores the evolving food trends among couples tying the knot in the UK

T h r o u g h t h e s e d i v e r s e p e r s p e c t i v e s a n d i n s i g h t s , o u r n e w w e d d i n g f e a t u r e aims to provide readers with a comprehensive and engagi n g e x p l o r a t i o n o f S o u t h Asian wedding ceremonies

Whether you're a bride-tobe, a wedding enthusiast, or s i m p l y i n t r i g u e d b y t h e beauty of cultural traditions, j o i n u s a s w e j o u r n e y t h r o u g h t h e e n c h a n t i n g world of South Asian weddings

Vineet Johri's insight into South Asian wedding photography

In the w orld o f w ed dings, the w ed ding ph oto grap her stands as a silent cond uctor, capturing fleeting mom ents that become ch erish ed treasures for generatio ns With k ee n att ent i on to d eta i l, emp athy, and a passion for storytelling, they weave lov e stories throu gh th eir lens, t ran s ce nd i ng th e ro l e o f o bserv er to becom e custodians of lov e's mo st precious m oments

Vineet Johri, whose lens h a s w i t n e s s e d c o u n t l e s s tales of romance and comm i t m e n t W i t h a k e e n u n d e r s t a n d i n g o f l i g h t , composition, and emotion, he has mastered the art of freezing time, immortalising the laughter, tears, and tender exchanges that define a couple s journey into matrimony In an interview with Asian Voice, he spoke about the evolution of South Asian wedding photography and challenges or opportunities being a wedding photographer

Speaking about the evolution of South Asian wedd i n g p h o t o g r a p h y , V i n e e t said, “With the rise of social media and the influence of Bollywood, weddings have e v o l v e d i n t o g r a n d a n d c o l o u r f u l s p e c t a c l e s Couples today seek inspirat i o n f r o m p l a t f o r m s l i k e Instagram and movies, shapi n g t h e i r w e d d i n g v i s i o n s b a s e d o n w h a t t h e y s e e Unlike in the past, where t r a d i t i o n s a n d p a r e n t a l guidance dictated wedding arrangements, modern couples have access to endless wedding ideas at their fing e r t i p s T h e y b r o w s e through a plethora of videos and photos online, cherry-

picking elements that reso n a t e w i t h t h e i r p e r s o n a l t a s t e s S o u t h A s i a n w e ddings in the UK have particularly embraced this trend, with some couples taking t h e i r c e l e b r a t i o n s t o extraordinary levels, such as w e d d i n g s i n D i s n e y l a n d Paris or on the streets of Westminster

“Recently, there s been a s u r g e i n r e q u e s t s f o r Instagram reels from couples looking to document their weddings in a social media-friendly format This trend reflects the growing influence of social media on w e d d i n g a e s t h e t i c s , w i t h c o u p l e s k e e n t o c u r a t e m e m o r a b l e m o m e n t s f o r their online audiences I've had the opportunity to work w i t h m a n y c l i e n t s f r o m India and beyond, capturing s t u n n i n g p r e - w e d d i n g m o m e n t s i n p i c t u r e s q u e locations across the UK and e v e n a b r o a d O n e m e m orable shoot involved a couple split between Paris and London, where we seamlessly blended two distinct settings into a single cinematic experience The ever-evolvi n g l a n d s c a p e o f s o c i a l media continues to shape w e d d i n g t r e n d s , w i t h Instagram serving as a catal y s t f o r n e w i d e a s t h a t q u i c k l y g a i n p o p u l a r i t y

Unveiling the splendour: Exploring wedding tourism in India

Anusha Singh

India, a land of rich traditions, vibrant c ultu res, and breath taking landscap es, has emerged as a premier destinatio n fo r co up les seeki ng a wedding experience like no other

With its majestic palaces, serene beaches, and lush landscapes, India offers a tapestry of options for couples dreaming of an unforgettable wedding

among couples seeking to elevate their wedding experiences ” T a l k i n g a b o u t u n i q u e challenges or opportunities he has faced as a wedding p h o t o g r a p h e r , h e s a i d , “Over the past decade, I've had the opportunity to cover a wide array of weddings, ranging from South Asian to Jewish and Christian ceremonies While each culture brings its own unique tradit i o n s a n d c u s t o m s , S o u t h Asian weddings, in particular, offer a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere Despite t h e c h a l l e n g e s t h a t m a y a r i s e , s u c h a s m a n a g i n g large crowds or navigating unpredictable situations, I b e l i e v e i n e m b r a c i n g t h e e n e r g y a n d e x c i t e m e n t o f t h e m o m e n t r a t h e r t h a n imposing control As a phot o g r a p h e r , m y g o a l i s t o seamlessly blend in with the festivities and capture genuine moments of joy and spontaneity I find that by immersing myself in the cele b r a t i o n a n d a l l o w i n g events to unfold naturally, I can produce authentic and heartfelt photographs that t r u l y e n c a p s u l a t e t h e essence of the occasion

“One memorable wedding that comes to mind was held at Kew Gardens, where logistical challenges, such as n a v i g a t i n g l o n g d i s t a n c e s between venues, presented obstacles However, by carefully planning and strategisi n g b e f o r e h a n d , i n c l u d i n g positioning cameras strateg i c a l l y t o c a p t u r e k e y moments, my team and I were able to overcome these c h a l l e n g e s a n d d e l i v e r e x c e p t i o n a l r e s u l t s , ” h e added

celebration In recent years, the concept of wedding tourism in India has gained significant traction, attracting couples from around the globe to exchange vows amidst the country s captivating beauty and timeless charm From opulent royal weddings in palatial settings to intimate ceremonies on sun-kissed shores, India's diverse offerings cater to every couple's vision of their perfect day

As per a KPMG report, the Indian wedding industry was previously estimated to generate an annual revenue of Rs 3-4 lakh crore, with current figures speculated to surpass this A significant portion of this expenditure is attributed to extravagant destination weddings held overseas The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has forecasted an astounding expenditure of Rs 4 7 lakh crore on 38 lakh weddings between November 23 and December 15, reflecting a notable 25% surge from the previous year This encompasses spending on a range of wedding essentials including jewellery, attire, venues, gifts, and catering Indian wedding up fo r grabs

Taking the concept of wedding tourism up a notch, Join My Wedding is an online platform that allows foreign nationals to attend Indian weddings It is an innovative platform that allows you to extend invitations to foreign travellers eager to immerse themselves in Indian culture, inviting

them to be a part of your wedding festivities Ask Orsi Parkanyi, the cofounder of the platform about the reason behind choosing Indian weddings, she said, “While anyone from any country can register their wedding on our platform, India is our target market What is very special about the Indian wedding market is that the weddings are huge and people are more open to sharing their weddings We needed a country that has interesting weddings and people are open to hosting

“The culture is very immersive Tasting the food, dancing to Indian music, wearing Indian attire are all very unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences Also Indian weddings are huge, so adding an extra five or seven people is not very disruptive Adding five people to a wedding party of six hundred people hardly makes any difference ”

According to Orsi, the celebrity wedding being talked about in the media and the wedding culture being shown on online platforms is also adding to the hype with people wanting to experience something similar Join My Wedding finds foreigners from the UK, US and all across Eu wanting to attend weddings in big cities like Delhi, Goa, Mumbai and Bangalore

T he dream desti nation for NRI weddings India has emerged as the preferred destination for weddings among

NRIs, and this has been a thing way before Narendra Modi requested NRIs to tie the knot in their native land The allure of celebrating weddings with timeless customs evokes a sense of nostalgia for many The opulence of an NRI wedding dazzles visitors, reflecting a deep-seated love for the motherland and a profound respect for its rich culture and rituals For NRIs, the dream of tying the nuptial knot or witnessing their sons and daughters wedded in a traditional Indian manner is a cherished aspiration

When it comes to planning their weddings, these couples leave no stone unturned

According to Priyesh Sagar, the founder of Eventually Yours, a fullservice management firm based in Ahmedabad and Mumbai, different couples have varying preferences for their weddings, with some preferring a very traditional approach, others favouring a modern style, and some desiring a blend of both “Planning weddings for NRIs poses additional challenges, as face-to-face interactions with clients are limited, and decisions often need to be made via video calls In such cases, planners often find themselves assisting with tasks beyond their usual scope, such as coordinating costumes”, he said

According to Priyesh, India stands out as a prime market for weddings due to its offering of excellent, spacious venues, diverse entertainment options, seamless integration of culture, and innovative decor Among the most sought-after wedding destinations in the country, he listed: Goa, Daman, or Alibaug for beach weddings, Rajasthan for palace weddings, and various other locations catering to specific themes such as forest or posh settings

Vi ne e t Jo hri

Orsi Parkany i P riye sh Sagar

Revolutionising bridal footwear with hand-painted sneaker artistry

Subhasini Naicker

B ri d a l s nea ke rs h a v e emerg ed as the latest trend i n w e d d i ng c ere m o ni e s, blending comfort and style s e am le s sl y L e ad i n g th e c h a rg e i n th i s in no v a ti v e m ovement is Gita S ood, an a cc o m p l i sh e d art i st a nd q u al if i ed art te ac h er renow ned for h er p erso na li s ed br id al s nea ke r c reatio ns

W i t h a c l i e n t e l e t h a t includes notable celebrities s u c h a s D a v i d R a y a , Emerson Royal, Kurt Angle, Jey Uso, Andy Murray, Lucy Bronze, Zoya Akhtar, Alia Bhatt, and more, Sood has garnered widespread recognition for her exceptional work In an exclusive interview with Asian Voice, she s h a r e s i n s i g h t s i n t o h e r approach to bridal sneakers, the importance of staying a b r e a s t o f c u r r e n t b r i d a l trends, and her most memorable experience collaborating with brides

1Can you tell us about your journey as an artist specialising in hand-painted bridal sneakers? What inspired you to pursue this unique niche?

Inspired by my passion for both art and fashion, I find immense joy in creating b e s p o k e h a n d - p a i n t e d designs on sneakers featuring a range of themes and designs requested by clients This unique idea of painting b r i d a l s n e a k e r s w a s b o r n when a sneakerhead client r e q u e s t e d m e t o c r e a t e a design to match her bridal o u t f i t w i t h c r y s t a l s S h e wanted to wear something comfortable, which would allow her to dance all night l o n g o n t h e m o s t s p e c i a l night of her life Since she was unable to just find a matching pair in a storeshe knew that customisation was the way forward

Since that first bridal pair I created, which consisted of c r y s t a l e l e p h a n t s a n d t h e bride's name, I was inundate d w i t h b r i d a l s n e a k e r r e q u e s t s - e a c h o n e t r u l y unique and special 2Bridal sneakers are often seen as a departure from traditional footwear choices for weddings How do you navigate the balance between honouring tradition and embracing innovation in your designs?

Bridal sneakers offer a modern twist on traditional wedding footwear, particul a r l y i n I n d i a n w e d d i n g s They provide a canvas for blending classic bridal elem e n t s l i k e f l o r a l d e s i g n s , cultural references such as t h e w e d d i n g k n o t a n d henna patterns, with cont e m p o r a r y m a t e r i a l s a n d artistic techniques I draw inspiration from traditional m o t i f s w h i l e e m b r a c i n g

innovation through experim e n t a t i o n w i t h c r y s t a l s , c o l o u r s , a n d p e r s o n a l i s e d t o u c h e s l i k e m o n o g r a m s

Each design reflects a bala n c e o f t r a d i t i o n a n d modernity, celebrating the uniqueness of the bride or couple while respecting the sanctity of the occasion

3How do you stay current with emerging styles and preferences within the bridal industry, and how does this influence your design choices?

T o s t a y a w a r e o f t h e e v o l v i n g b r i d a l f a s h i o n trends, I find myself being inspired by leading bridal f a s h i o n d e s i g n e r s s u c h a s

Sabyasachi, Tarun Tahiliani, Manish Malhotra, Shubhika Sharma and tv shows such as Say yes to the dress I closely monitor bridal maga z i n e s , b l o g s , a n d s o c i a l media platforms to identify e m e r g i n g s t y l e s , t r e n d i n g colour palettes, and design elements that resonate with today's brides Additionally, a t t e n d i n g b r i d a l f a s h i o n shows and networking with o t h e r b r i d a l p r o f e s s i o n a l s allows me to gain firsthand insight into the latest trends and preferences within the industry

Another important factor in staying current with b r i d a l f a s h i o n t r e n d s i s maintaining open communication with my clients I actively listen to their preferences, desires, and inspirations, allowing me to tailor my designs to reflect the latest trends while also honouring their individual style and vision for their wedding day

4How do you ensure that your hand-painted bridal sneakers reflect the individuality and personal stories of the couples you work with?

I b e g i n b y g e t t i n g t o know the couples on a pers o n a l l e v e l T h r o u g h i ndepth discussions, I learn a b o u t t h e i r u n i q u e l o v e story, shared interests, their wedding outfits and more This allows me to understand the essence of their r e l a t i o n s h i p a n d t h e e l ements that hold special significance to them

Next, I translate these

From celebrities to brides: Parul Jani's expertise in crafting timeless saree ensembles

Nestled within the intricate fabric of Indian culture and traditio n, the art of saree drap ing stands as a timeless emblem of elegance and grace Parul Jani, a master of th is craft, ep itom ises th e essence of this tradition With her skilled hand s and meticulous attention to detail, she breathes life into yards of cloth, transforming th em into captivating ensembles that exude soph istication and cultural resonance

In a recent interview with Asian Voice, she delves

insights into bespoke design concepts that capture the couple's personalities, intere s t s , a n d l o v e s t o r y Whether it's incorporating meaningful symbols, significant dates, or inside jokes into the design, I strive to infuse each pair of bridal sneakers with personalised touches that reflect the couple's individuality and journey together

5) Can you share any memorable stories or experiences from working with brides to create their custom bridal sneakers?

What are some of the most unique or challenging requests you've received?

Many brides provide me w i t h s e p a r a t e p i c t u r e s o f their face and wedding outf i t , a s t h e b i g d a y h a s n ' t arrived yet It's my task to merge these elements, envisioning how the bride will look on her wedding day and portraying it through the painting This can be c h a l l e n g i n g a s i t r e q u i r e s v i s u a l i s i n g f r o m m u l t i p

references

O n c e ,

symbols from her favourite TV series, Indian patterns, and more It was challenging to merge these dissimil a r e l e m e n t s , b u t a f t e r n u m e r o u s r e v i s i o n s , w e found a layout that pleased the bride

In another instance, a bride wanted me to illustrate her love story set in Punjab, India, including a Punjabi quote Despite my

into her illustrious career, shedding light on the rising popularity of saree draping among celebrities and the favoured draping styles embraced by brides Can you share some insights into your journey as a saree draping artist?

Growing up in a Gujarati Indian family, sarees were a cherished part of my upbringing Learning the art of saree draping from my skilled aunt, who was like a second mother to me, I carried this tradition with me to London when I moved there in the late 80s or early 90s

Over time, my knack for flawlessly draping sarees earned me a reputation among friends and family This led to playful suggestions about turning my talent into a business, which I eventually acted upon

Upon honing my skills during a trip to India, I officially launched my saree draping services in London

The clients who request my services are of different ages and do so for a variety of events One of my focuses lies in working with brides and their families, enhancing their wedding day look by collaborating with specialised beauticians

When I attend saree draping appointments, my passion lies in working with brides and their families, who are the focal point of wedding celebrations Collaborating with beauticians who specialise

also in mainstream media, where actresses are showcasing sarees flawlessly in films The trend is gradually shifting back towards embracing traditional Indian attire, with sarees reclaiming their status as a symbol of elegance and cultural heritage It's a trend that I am immensely proud to witness and be a part of, as more and more celebrities choose to embrace the timeless beauty of the saree

What advice do you have for brides in selecting the perfect saree and draping style? Are there any popular draping styles for our techniques commonly chosen for weddings?

A key tip I always offer brides when they ask for advice is while choosing a saree or lehenga, opt for one with a border that isn't too wide, as this can cause the fabric to drop off the shoulder, creating a bulky appearance

in hair and makeup, I enhance the overall bridal look by ensuring the saree complements their style seamlessly These collaborations have proven mutually beneficial, as we refer clients to one another, fostering a supportive network within the industry

Some of these beauticians have connections in India, which has opened doors to new opportunities For instance, when I draped sarees for my first celebrity client, they were referred to me by one of these beauticians Once you establish yourself in this niche, word-of-mouth referrals become a powerful tool for expanding your clientele

How do you view the recent resurgence of saree popularity among celebrities and in mainstream media, and its impact on preserving traditional Indian attire?

There was a period where sarees seemed to be losing popularity, particularly in the 90s and early 2000s, as many celebrities opted for Western attire even at Indian functions However, a notable trend reversal has emerged in recent years Indian celebrities are now donning sarees even when attending events in Western countries, signalling a resurgence in the saree's popularity

This shift is evident not only in celebrity circles but

In terms of popular draping styles, two have emerged as favourites among brides: the loose pallu draped over one shoulder, offering a blend of traditional and modern aesthetics, and the neatly pleated style that keeps everything streamlined while showcasing intricate work on the saree These styles offer both elegance and practicality, making them increasingly popular choices for brides

Finally, what do you find most rewarding about your work as a saree draping artist, especially in the context of, you know, celebrity events and weddings?

The greatest reward for me in draping sarees for celebrity events or weddings is the satisfaction of seeing my clients joy and confidence in their attire When celebrities' fans and attendees compliment the saree draping, remarking on how beautifully it's done or how amazing it looks, it affirms the skill and effort I've put into my work

Similarly, when clients return to me after an event and share feedback about how their saree garnered praise from everyone, especially when they mention how comfortable and secure it felt throughout the day, it's immensely gratifying Knowing that I've contributed to their happiness and comfort on such important occasions is truly rewarding and motivates me to continue delivering exceptional service

Instagram Page: parulssareedraping

Parul Jani

Gita Sood

Parul Jani with Alia Bhatt

2024 wedding trends: The ins and outs of planning the perfect wedding

Anusha Singh

Weddings h ave undergone si gnificant transfo rmatio ns i n recent years, with cou ples allocating h igh er bu dgets to c re at e m em o rab le e xp er iences fo r th eir guests, leadi n g to t h e e me rge n ce o f n u m er o u s ne w we dd in g trends Each wedding seaso n, spanning from May to October in th e UK , draws i ns p ira tio n fr om a mu ltit u de o f t h e me s T h es e t h e me s c an ra ng e fr o m th o se i nsp ired by po p ular cu lture to tho se influ enced by social media trends or h istorical references

In 2024, personalisation a n d e n h a n c i n g t h e g u e s t e x p e r i e n c e s t a n d a t t h e f o r e f r o n t o f w e d d i n g trends Couples are going the extra mile to ensure that their wedding reflects their u n i q u e p e r s o n a l i t i e s a n d preferences In the UK, US, and EU, South Asian couples draw inspiration from t h e i r t r a d i t i o n a l h e r i t a g e and the local environment of their upbringing when planning their weddings

Summer wedding trends to loo k fo rward to

Meera Majith ia is a wedding planning expert who has worked in the South Asian market for nearly a decade She previously hosted a wedding podcast and wrote a book for brides-tobe She’s worked at prestigious venues across the UK including Blenheim Palace a n d c u r r e n t l y s p e n d s h e r time sharing wedding tips and trends on The Happy Bride Co blog and newsletter She shared with Asian V o i c e , h e r i n s i g h t s a b o u t the upcoming summer wedd i n g t r e n d s i n t h e U K

“There is a growing trend of people preferring outdoor settings Many couples are opting to immerse themselves in nature, leading to a rise in minimalist decor and utilising natural surroundings as a significant part of t h e i r d e c o r a t i o n s L i v e entertainment is also gaining popularity, whether it s l i v e a r t i s t s p a i n t i n g , l i v e music, or other interactive experiences to keep guests e n g a g e d a n d e n t e r t a i n e d Couples are seeking to create a more memorable and unique experience for their g u e s t s , i n c o r p o r a t i n g l i v e e l e m e n t s l i k e c o o k i n g demonstrations”, she said A c c o r d i n g t o M e e r a , w h e n i t c o m e s t o c o l o u r palettes, while the Pantone colour of the year, peach fuzz, will certainly make an appearance, the trend leans towards light and airy tones that have been popular for a f e w y e a r s n o w H o w e v e r , muted tones are emerging as a significant trend, with shades like sage, olive, and e a r t h y t o n e s b e i n g favoured Florals and plants a r e a l s o b e i n g u s e d t o e n h a n c e t h e n a t u r a l a e sthetic

“ I n t e r e s t i n g l y , there's a contrast emerging between understated, natu r a l t o n e s a n d bold, vibrant pops o f c o l o u r S o m e w e d d i n g s a r e embracing extravagant themes with b r i g h t c o l o u r s , reflecting the coup l e ' s p e r s o n a l i t y a n d d e s i r e f o r a u n i q u e c e l e b r ation Rather than playing it s a f e , c o u p l e s a r e s e e k i n g p e r s o n a l i s e d t o u c h e s t h a t truly showcase their indiv i d u a l i t y T h i s t r e n d e x t e n d s t o p e r s o n a l i s e d menus, allowing couples to tailor their wedding experience to their preferences”, she added

m o s t p o p u l a r s e a s o n f o r weddings due to the better weather, allowing people to dress up and enjoy thems e l v e s w i t h o u t w o r r y i n g about adverse weather conditions”, she adds S hifting p references in foo d trends

Celebrity weddings in the spotlight

I n r e c e n t y e a r s , t h e r e has been a significant evolut i o n i n t h e f o o d t r e n d s observed at UK weddings, r e f l e c t i n g s h i f t i n g p r e f e rences, cultural influences, and a growing appetite for u n i q u e c u l i n a r y e x p e r iences According to Ami t L am ba , r e p r e s e n t i n g L a g u n a , a renowned restaurant with an event catering division, c a t e r i n g f o r British Asian weddings often differs from weddings of o t h e r b a c kg r o u n d s d u e t o cultural and relig i o u s c o n s i d e r ations F u r t h e r s h a ri n g h i s o p i n i o n , he said, “With the average s i z e o f A s i a n w e d d i n g s d e c r e a s i n g c o m p a r e d t o previous years, couples now h a v e t h e o p p o r t u n i t y t o explore more creative catering options by allocating a larger portion of their budg e t t o p r e m i u m m e n u items

A shi ft from traditional venues R e g a r d i n g v e n u e s , there's been a shift away from larger, more traditional venues like stately homes t o w a r d s m o r e u n c o n v e ntional spaces such as barns, industrial venues, or quirky locations like pumping stations

M e e r a e x p l a i n s t h i s transition stating, “Couples are drawn to these venues for their uniqueness and the o p p o r t u n i t y t o c u s t o m i s e t h e m t o t h e i r l i k i n g O u t d o o r v e n u e s a r e a l s o g a i n i n g p o p u l a r i t y , w i t h couples opting for outdoor drinks receptions or ceremonies to create a different atmosphere “ T h i s s h i f t i s p o s s i b l e due to smaller guest lists, which allow for more experimentation and creativity C o u p l e s a r e a l s o h o s t i n g m u l t i p l e e v e n t s o r w e e kend-long celebrations, creating a staycation experience for guests ” S h e a l s o a d d s t h a t choosing to marry outside the city offers more creative p o s s i b i l i t i e s a n d a m o r e e n j o y a b l e e x p e r i e n c e f o r e v e r y o n e i n v o l v e d , t a k i n g advantage of better weather and more options for outd o o r a c t i v i t i e s H o w e v e r , she also warns that plann i n g a s u m m e r w e d d i n g requires careful consideration of weather-related cont i n g e n c i e s a n d a d j u s t i n g timelines to accommodate longer daylight hours “ D e s p i t e t h e s e c h a llenges, summer remains the

In the world of celebri ty weddings, exc es s knows no bounds, and every detail is meticulously planned to perf ec ti on From the lavis h attire and opulent venues to the star-studded gues t lists and extravagant decor, thes e weddings are a testament to the allure of fame and fortune Yet, beyond the glamour and spectacle, c elebrity weddings also serve as a source of ins pi ration, setting trends and capturing the imagination of fans worldwide As we continue to marvel at the extravagance of celebrity nuptials, on e thing remains clear: when it comes to love, the s tars truly know how to shine

One of the most anticipated elements of any celebrity wedding is undoubtedly the bride's wedding outfit Renowned fashion designers are often enlisted to create custommade dresses that are nothing short of works of art These couture creations come with price tags reaching into the tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, symbolising luxury and exclusivity

Take, for example, actress Priyanka Chopra's wedding to Nick Jonas Chopra stunned in a red

“Additionally, there is a growing awareness of food i n t o l e r a n c e s a n d s u s t a i nability concerns, prompting c a r e f u l c o n s i d e r a t i o n s t o ensure that all guests can f u l l y e n j o y t h e m e n u Another emerging trend at Asian weddings is the inclus i o n o f l a t e - n i g h t s n a c k s , catering to guests who may feel peckish after hitting the dance floor ”

A c c o r d i n g t o A m i t , while the family-style sharing concept remains the top choice for service style at weddings, there s a notable rise in the popularity of preplated style menus

“Buffets continue to be a f a v o u r e d o p t i o n f o r p r ewedding events, offering a d i s t i n c t c o n t r a s t t o t h e main day's dining experience Guests often appreciate the interactive element of buffet stations, particularly when they feature live c o o k i n g d e m o n s t r a t i o n s such as Tandoori grill stat i o n s , l i v e p a s t a s t a t i o n s , and Chaat counters, adding an engaging and memorable dimension to the culinary offerings”, he said

Over the years, Amit has observed a growing trend where Non-Asian clients are increasingly drawn to South A s i a n c u i s i n e f o r t h e i r e v e n t s , s e e k i n g t o i n f u s e their weddings with unique c u l i n a r y e x p e r i e n c e s , departing from conventiona l c a t e r i n g o p t i o n s a n d imbue their special day with a personal touch that resonates with their individual culinary preferences

Sabyasachi lehenga reportedly worth Rs 18 lakh (£1 8 Mn) The intricately designed outfit took a staggering 3,720 hours to create, showcasing the dedication to craftsmanship involved For her Christian wedding, Chopra opted for a custom-made white gown from the renowned Ralph Lauren Adorned with 11,000 Swarovski crystals and intricate sequin work, the gown came with a staggering price tag of $2 5 million, making it a true testament to opulence and extravagance

Similarly, the choice of venue for a celebrity wedding is often a statement in itself From sprawling estates and luxurious resorts to historic landmarks and picturesque beaches, celebrities spare no expense when it comes to selecting the perfect backdrop for their special day The cost of renting out these exclusive venues can run into the millions, further adding to the overall extravagance of the event

Celebrity weddings are renowned not only for their glamour but also for their star-studded guest lists These lists often include A-list actors,

musicians, and other notable personalities, adding an extra layer of excitement to the festivities

The presence of highprofile attendees also attracts media attention, turning the wedding into an unforgettable event For instance, the pre-wedding bash of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant garnered global attention with its star-studded lineup Actors, actresses, billionaires, and even international singers graced the event, with some of them even delivering performances

In addition to their glamour and extravagance, celebrity weddings also serve as trendsetters in the world of weddings From the choice of decor and floral arrangements to the selection of entertainment and cuisine, celebrity nuptials often influence wedding trends for years to come For instance, actress Anushka Sharma's pale blush pink lehenga from Sabyasachi, worn during her wedding in 2017, has become a significant trendsetter Even in 2024, many celebrities and common people alike are opting for pastel-shaded wedding lehengas inspired by her iconic look

Amit Lamba

Meera Majithia

Dear Financial Voice Reader,

Alpesh Patel

A bundle more emails fr om people who ent rust ed t heir pensions to their IF As and wealth manager s onl y t o find, in one case, a mer e 3% rise in 10 years Another had 20% in 10 year s! Shocking The Nasdaq was up 55% last year

In the realm of investment, diversification is universally acclaimed as the cornerstone of risk management and portfolio optimization The dictum don t put all your eggs in one basket" has long governed the strategies of individual investors and financial advisors alike However, the burgeoning practice among Investment Financial Advisors (IFAs) to excessively diversify investment portfolios by allocating assets across a myriad of funds, which in turn invest in dozens, if not hundreds, of stocks, warrants a critical examination

This article delves into the nuanced debate of over-diversification, presenting a synthesis of academic research and empirical evidence to argue that beyond a certain threshold, diversification ceases to add value and may, in fact, precipitate underperformance

The Concept of Opt imal Diver sificat ion

The seminal work by Harry Markowitz on portfolio theory in 1952 laid the foundation for modern investment strategies, introducing the concept of diversification as a method to optimize the riskreturn trade-off in a portfolio Markowitz's theory posits that an investor can achieve optimal diversification by carefully selecting securities that are not perfectly correlated, thereby reducing the portfolio's overall risk without proportionately diminishing its expected return

However, the application of Markowitz's theory in practice, particularly by IFAs, often leads to what is termed as "over-diversification " This phenomenon occurs when a portfolio holds a large number of assets to the point where the marginal benefit of adding an additional asset in terms of risk reduction is negligible or even negative

The Dr awbacks of Over -Diver sificat ion

The critique of over-diversification is supported by various studies and empirical evidence A pivotal study by Evans and Archer (1968) demonstrated that the benefits of diversification diminish significantly beyond 10 to 20 securities, with little additional risk reduction achieved beyond this point This finding suggests that the sprawling portfolios often recommended by IFAs may indeed be counterproductive

Moreover, over-diversification can lead to a dilution of returns As portfolios become increasingly d i v e r s i f i e d , t h e i r p e r f o r m a n c e t e n d s t o g r a v i t a t e towards the market average, potentially foregoing the higher returns that more concentrated portfolios might capture through astute selection and timing This effect was highlighted by Malkiel, who argued t h a t t h e e x c e s s i v e d i v e r s i f i c a t i o n c o u l d p r e v e n t investors from outperforming the market, essentially reducing the skill element in portfolio management to a negligible factor

Additionally, over-diversification increases the complexity and the management costs of portfolios Each additional investment not only adds to the direct costs, such as management fees and transaction fees, but also complicates the task of portfolio monit o r i n g a n d r e b a l a n c i n g , p o t e n t i a l l y e r o d i n g n e t returns

The Case for St rategic Diver sificat ion

The counterpoint to over-diversification is not u n d e r - d i v e r s i f i c a t i o n b u t s t r a t e g i c d i v e r s i f i c a t i o n

This approach involves selecting a relatively limited number of investments that are sufficiently diversified across different asset classes, sectors, and geographies but are also aligned with the investor's risk tolerance, investment horizon, and financial goals The essence of strategic diversification lies in the quality of choices rather than the quantity, focusing on depth of analysis and potential for value addition rather than sheer volume

In conclusion, while diversification remains a fundamental principle in investment strategy, there is a c o m p e l l i n g c a s e a g a i n s t o v e r - d i v e r s i f i c a t i o n T h e empirical evidence suggests that beyond a certain threshold, excessive diversification does not significantly reduce risk but can lead to underperformance and increased costs Investors and IFAs alike should heed the lessons of academic research and empirical e v i d e n c e , f a v o u r i n g s t r a t e g i c d i v e r s i f i c a t i o n t h a t emphasizes quality over quantity As the landscape of investment continues to evolve, the ability to discern the optimal level of diversification will remain a critical skill for achieving superior investment outcomes

Bank of England keeps rates on hold despite fall in inflation

Despite a d ecrease in inflati o n to 3 4 p er c ent in Febru ary, m arking th e lowes t rat e si n ce S e p tem ber

20 21, w hen it stood at 3 1 per cent, the Bank of Eng land has o pted to maintain its cu rrent interest rates This d ec i si o n w a s an no u n ce d prior to the release of the Bo E s la tes t i nt ere st r ate decision at noon, with policymakers cho osing to keep rates steady at 5 25 per cent

Following the decision, B o E g o v e r n o r A n d r e w Bailey said: “In recent weeks

we ’ ve seen further encouraging signs that inflation is coming down

“We’ve held rates again today at 5 25% because we need to be sure that inflation will fall back to our 2%

target and stay there

“We’re not yet at t h e p o i n t w h e r e w e can cut interest rates, but things are moving in the right direction ” C h a n c e l l o r R i s h i Sunak has received a b o o s t f r o m t h e decrease in inflation, w i t h C h a n c e l l o r J e r e m y H u n t s u g g e s t i n g t h a t t h e brighter economic outlook may pave the way for preelection tax cuts and interest rate reductions

M a r i o n A m i o t , s e n i o r

European economist at S&P Global Ratings on the decision: “The Bank of England will need to see a lot more m o d e r a t i o n i n w a g e s a n d s e r v i c e s p r i c e s b e f o r e i t s t a r t s c u t t i n g r a t e s W e d o n ’ t e x p e c t t h a t t o b e before August as the labour market remains tight “ W h i l e v a c a n c i e s a r e f a l l i n g , t h e w o r k f o r c e i s barely expanding, supporting pay increases that are w e l l a b o v e p r o d u c t i v i t y gains and the 2% inflation target ”

Tesco accused of using cash and carry to ‘squeeze’ village stores out of business

Vi l lag e st o res ar e rai s i ng co n ce rns ov er w h at th e y perceiv e as a fig ht for survival, accusing superm arket giant Tesco o f emp loying its cash - and -c arry d i v is io n to "squ eeze" th em out of the market by limiting supplies and g ro c er y d eli v e ri es Independ ent retailers, often o p era ti ng al o ng s i d e l o ca l post offices, h av e info rm ed M e d i a t h a t a s e t o f recent modifications introduced by Tesco's wholesale division, Booker, are exacerb a t i n g p r e s s u r e s T h i s comes at a time when certain villages find themselves with only one small shop or none at all

A n d r e w G o o d a c r e , t h e chief executive of the British I n d e p e n d e n t R e t a i l e r s Association (Bira), called on the UK competition watchdog to examine the issue and said he would be raising

the matter with Kevin Hollinrake, the minister for small business “I think it’s shocking,” Goodacre said of the problems reported b y s m a l l r e t a i l e r s “This shows the worst o f a l a r g e c o m p a n y b u l l y i n g l i t t l e s h o p s C o m m u n i t i e s w a n t t h e s e small shops and these are not businesses making millions of pounds ” S e v e n y e a r s a g o , t h e c o m p e t i t i o n w a t c h d o g m a d e a w i d e l y c r i t i c i z e d d e c i s i o n t o a p p r o v e t h e acquisition of Booker, the

UK's largest grocery wholesaler, by Tesco, its largest s u p e r m a r k e t c h a i n Through Booker, Tesco also o v e r s e e s t h e L o n d i s , B u d g e n s , a n d P r e m i e r g r o u p s , c o m p r i s i n g t h o usands of independent stores bound by purchasing agreements with the wholesaler

In 2017, at the time of the Booker takeover, rival w h o l e s a l e r s w r o t e t o t h e C o m p e t i t i o n a n d M a r k e t s Authority warning it would hand Tesco “incontestable power over the procurement of all grocery categories in the UK”

a t io n wi d e ha s st a t e d i t s in t en t i on t o m a in t ai n t he cur ren t staffin g le vels a t the he a d qu a r t e r s " in t h e n e a r ter m "

Nationwide has put forw a r d a 2 2 0 p - a - s h a r e a p p r o a c h , i n c l u d i n g a planned 2p-per-share dividend payout, which will now be voted on by Virgin Money shareholders

N a t i o n w i d e s a i d : “Nationwide’s board agreed

t h a t a b i n d i n g o f f e r t o acquire Virgin Money was in the best interests of the socie t y , a n d i t s p r e s e n t a n d future members, following full consideration and the a p p r o p r i a t e d u e d i l i g e n c e , and after taking comments f r o m m e m b e r s i n t o account ”

The tie-up would create a c o m b i n e d l e n d e r w o r t h around £366 3bn, with total l e n d i n g a n d a d v a n c e s o f about £283 5bn

Nationwide said it does n o t i n t e n d t o m a k e a n y material changes to the size o f V i r g i n M o n e y ’ s 7 , 3 0 0s t r o n g w o r k f o r c e “ i n t h e near term”

However, the acquisition will mark the conclusion of the Virgin Money brand, as N a t i o n w i d e i n t e n d s t o rebrand the Virgin Money o p e r a t i o n s a s N a t i o n w i d e within six years, while maintaining both brands initially

Average monthly UK rent up 9% – the highest annual increase recorded

Offici al figu res released by th e Office for National S tatistics reveal a concerning trend: the average month ly rent p aid by tenants in th e UK su rged by 9% in the year leading up to F eb ru a ry , m ar ki n g t h e s te ep e s t a nn u a l i n c re as e s in c e records began in 2 015 Th is data underscores wh at one advocate described as a "renting crisis , " as rental prices escalated across all regions of the UK

In England, the average monthly rent climbed to £1,276, reflecting an 8 8% year-on-year increase Meanwhile, in Scotland, rents rose by 10 9% to an average of £944, and in Wales, they saw a 9% uptick to £723 Data for Northern Ireland, albeit trailing behind the rest of the UK, showed a 9 3% rise over the year leading to December 2023, as reported by the ONS

In England, the biggest rise was in London, which already had the UK’s highest rent The average monthly cost faced by a tenant was up by 10 6% year-on-year at £2,035

Rents have consistently increased since the ONS series began, but the pace of change has accelerated in recent months, with a combination of higher interest costs for landlords and a fall in the number of rental properties available driving up prices

February’s figures are the highest since the ONS started publishing this index, which is based on new and existing tenancies in England and Wales, newly advertised lets in Northern Ireland and predominantly new lets in Scotland

Tata to ‘push on with Port Talbot job losses even with Labour subsidy’

Tata Steel w ould pu sh ah ead with thousand s of job losses at its Port T albo t site even with hu nd reds of m illions of pou nds of su bsid ies being prom ised by L abour, sources close to the com pany said People familiar with the c o m p a n y ’ s p l a n s s a y t h e money being promised by Labour if it wins the election w o u l d n o t p r e v e n t w i d escale job losses at the site, where Tata says it is losing

£1mn a day

The Indian-owned company is planning to make as m a n y a s 2 , 8 0 0 p e o p l e redundant at the site as it closes its blast furnaces and replaces them with a less p o l l u t i n g e l e c t r i c o n e , a decision which shadow mini s t e r s s a y c o u l d c a u s e decades of economic damage

O n e s o u r c e d e s c r i b e d the idea of keeping one blast

furnace open while building an electric one, as proposed by Labour and trade unions, a s “ a l m o s t i m p o s s i b l e t o achieve” The company has p r e v i o u s l y d e s c r i b e d t h e proposals as not “feasible or a f f o r d a b l e ” , b u t s h a d o w ministers had hoped to persuade executives to change t h e i r m i n d s w i t h t h e promise of more public subsidies under a Labour government

Labour has put supporting the Port Talbot site at the heart of its industrial p o l i c y L a s t y e a r K e i r Starmer, the Labour leader, v i s i t e d t h e s t e e l w o r k s t o promote his plan for green steel, which he said would “bring growth and economic security” Starmer said: “Our plans to get Britain building again will mean fuller order books and security for both industry and worker ”

India's forex kitty hits record $642.5 billion , rupee at new low

I n d i a ’ s f or e i gn e x c ha n ge reserves have surged to a new peak, reaching $642 49 b illion as of March 15, 2024

The mi les tone was achieved even as the rupee c losed at a new low of 83 43 against the dollar - 28 pais e lower than i ts previous close Bankers said there was n o i r o n y i n t h e r e s e r v e s g a i n i n g s t r e n g t h a n d t h e r u p e e w e a k e n i n g s i m u l t a n e o u s l y T h i s i s because RBI had taken a c o n s c i o u s d e c i s i o n t o absorb $5 billion this week a s p a r t o f i t s f o r e i g n e x c h a n g e m a n a g e m e n t given that additional dollar flows are expected in the next financial year T h e R B I a b s o r b e d $ 5 billion from a dollar/rupee

sell-buy swap that matured on last Monday This sellb u y s w a p u n d e r t a k e n i n March 2022 was a strategic m o v e a i m e d t o a l l e v i a t e p r e s s u r e o n t h e r u p e e , which had been impacted b y g l o b a l e v e n t s s u c h a s R u s s i a ’ s i n v a s i o n o f U k r a i n e , l e a d i n g t o increased crude oil prices B y a c c e p t i n g d o l l a r s through the sell-buy swap, R B I i n j e c t e d a b o u t £ 4 billion of liquidity into the

money market This infusion of liquidity f a c i l i t a t e d r e c o r d b o n d a u c t i o n s conducted by RBI on behalf of state govts without significantly affecting yields

T h e M a r c h 1 5 m i l e s t o n e s u r p a s s e s t h e e a r l i e r h i g h o f $ 6 4 2 4 5 b i l l i o n a c h i e v e d i n S e p t 2 0 2 1 N u m b e r s f o r f o r e x reserves are reported every F r i d a y T h e l a t e s t d a t a reveals an increase of $6 4 b i l l i o n c o m p a r e d t o t h e previous week The forex r e s e r v e s c o n s i s t o f t h r e e m a i n c o m p o n e n t s , w i t h f o r e i g n c u r r e n c y a s s e t s comprising the majority at $ 5 6 8 4 b i l l i o n G o l d h o l d i n g s c o n t r i b u t e $ 5 1 1

b i l l i o n , w h i l e s p e c i a l d r a w i n g r i g h t s w i t h t h e IMF stand at $18 3 billion T h e d o l l a r ’ s s t r e n g t h , driven by favourable risk s e n t i m e n t a n d e c o n o m i c optimism in the US, has e x e r t e d p r e s s u r e o n t h e rupee

“ T h e r u p e e ’ s f a l l i s mainly due to dollar index g o i n g u p a s t h e F e d indicated about future rate cuts Forex reserves are up due to fundamentals being g o o d o n b a l a n c e o f p a y m e n t s , l e a d i n g t o accretions Also, we must recognise that forex data is l a g g e d b y a w e e k a n d revaluation effect will be seen in due course of time,” said Madan Sabnavis, chief economist, BoB

Mahindra signs MoU with Adani for electric vehicle charging infrastructure

I n di a n a u to ma ke r M ah i n dr a & Mahindra signed a Memorandum of U n de rs ta n di ng ( Mo U) w it h A dan i

T otal E nergies E-Mo bility Ltd ( AT EL)

T h e Mo U i s t o c re at e an el ec t ri c vehicle charging infrastructure across India

T h r o u g h t h e p a r t n e r s h i p , t h e automaker will also roll out e-mobility s o l u t i o n s t o p r o v i d e a c c e s s t o t h e charging network for consumers

“We are thrilled to partner with Adani Total Energies This alliance is a

c o r n e r s t o n e i n e n h a n c i n g t h e E V charging infrastructure, ensuring our customers enjoy seamless access to the c h a r g i n g n e t w o r k a n d d i g i t a l i n t e g r a t i o n f o r a n u n p a r a l l e l e d E V e x p e r i e n c e I n l i n e w i t h o u r commitment to enhancing customer experience with the partner network, we are actively on-boarding multiple partners to broaden the EV ecosystem, d r i v i n g t h e a d o p t i o n o f e l e c t r i c vehicles,” said Veejay Nakra, President, Automotive Division, M&M Ltd

TCS signs 7-year deal to transform IT infrastructure for Denmark's Ramboll

Ta t a Co n sult a n cy Se r vi ce s ( T C S) h a s s ig n e d a mult imillion -dollar stra te gic par tne rship with R amboll, a Danish globa l a rchitectur e, e n g i n e e r in g a n d consult ancy compan y TCS will car ry out in fo rma tion t e c h n o lo g y ( I T) “ t r a n s fo r m a t io n ” fo r t h e company

TCS did not disclose the size of the deal, but analysts said it falls under the large d e a l c a t e g o r y f o r t h e I T s e r v i c e s e x p o r t e r A l a r g e deal for TCS is typically in the $100 million and above category T h e n e w a g r e e m e n t , spread over seven years, will m o d e r n i s e a n d s t r e a m l i n e R a m b o l l ’ s I T o p e r a t i n g m o d e l t o d r i v e b u s i n e s s growth and optimise costs As a part of the partnership, TCS will induct more than 300 Ramboll IT employees in 12 countries Thomas Angelius, senior g r o u p d i r e c t o r a n d c h i e f i n f o r m a t i o n o f f i c e r a t R a m b o l l , s a i d , “ O u r c o m p a n y h a s e x p e r i e n c e d remarkable growth, and we are determined to see this s u c c e s s f o r w a r d T o c o n t i n u e o u r u p w a r d trajectory, we recognised the n e e d f o r a t r u s t w o r t h y p a r t n e r w h o c a n h e l p u s b u i l d a s t a n d a r d i s e d ,

s c a l a b l e I T p l a t f o r m t h a t allows for innovation, and is a g i l e e n o u g h t o f o s t e r creativity ”

TCS will provide services to manage Ramboll’s Cloud and data centres, application d e v e l o p m e n t a n d maintenance, cybersecurity, and digital Workplace This will set a digital foundation f o r R a m b o l l ’ s b u s i n e s s growth, help to reduce its c l i m a t e f o o t p r i n t , a n d increase scalability R a m b o l l w o r k s i n 3 5 countries and has revenue of more than DKK 17 billion T h e c o m p a n y ’ s g r o w t h i n the past few years, including t h r o u g h m e r g e r s a n d acquisitions, has resulted in a complex IT architecture and operations structure T C S w i l l h e l p r e d u c e R a m b o l l ’ s I T c o s t s b y s t r e a m l i n i n g a n d c o n s o l i d a t i n g t h e architecture and operations structure "The partnership shall help Ramboll with a s c a l a b l e , f u t u r e - r e a d y I T p l a t f o r m d r i v i n g b u s i n e s s agility TCS will leverage the power of data, cloud, and a n a l y t i c s t o h e l p R a m b o l l d r i v e i n t e l l i g e n t b u s i n e s s t r a n s f o r m a t i o n a n d e n t e r p r i s e - w i d e g r o w t h , " said V Rajanna, president, t e c h n o l o g y , s o f t w a r e a n d services, TCS

“This is one more step towards expanding the footprint of Adani Total G a s L t d i n t h e E V s p a c e T h e c o l l a b o r a t i o n w i t h M & M f o r t h e charging infrastructure will bolster the confidence of customers to embrace EV technology as part of the energy transition Together, such steps will help reduce carbon emissions and help India meet its climate action goals,” s a i d S u r e s h P M a n g l a n i , E x e c u t i v e Director and CEO of Adani Total Gas Ltd

SAIC Motor and JSW group finalise automotive JV

n d w i l l s e e

initial investment of £500 million While JSW will get

3 5 % s t a k e i n M G M o t o r I n d i a , d o m e s t i c f i n a n c i a l investors will hold 8%, MG employees 5% and dealers

3 % S A I C w i l l h o l d t h e b a l a n c e 4 9 % , t h o u g h t h e a g r e e m e n t e n v i s a g e s

India’s business activity surges to 8-month high in March

In dia 's busine ss activity surged t o a n eight-mont h high in Ma r c h, r i d in g o n t he wa v e o f s t r on g m a n uf a ct u r in g perfor ma nce

According to HSBC's flash India Composite Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI), compiled by S&P Global, the index rose to 61 3 this month, marking an increase from February's final reading of 60 6 This marks the 32nd consecutive month of expanding activity, underlining India's position as the fastest growing major economy

P r a n j u l B h a n d a r i , H S B C ' s c h i e f I n d i a e c o n o m i s t , attributed this growth to the manufacturing sector, which witnessed its highest output in nearly three-and-a-half years “Led by the strongest manufacturing output in nearly threeand-a-half years, the composite output index rose quickly," said Bhandari

“New orders rose at a faster pace than in the previous month, and within that both domestic and export orders showed improved vigor,” she added

The index tracking factory activity soared to 59 2, its peak since February 2008, from 56 9 last month It may be noted that demand for factory goods remained robust, with new orders experiencing the fastest expansion in over three years

Despite a slight easing, services activity remained strong, with the index registering at 60 3 in March compared to 60 6 last month Overall, the data paints a promising picture for India's fastest-growing economy, with manufacturing driving growth and sustaining momentum in the broader business landscape

France's Decathlon plans to open 10 stores annually in India

a r s a n d c o m m e r c i a l v e h i c l e s , batteries and components in Odisha, said the new entity with MG intends to recreate the “Maruti movement” and launch efficient cars every three-to-six months starting

Sept J i n d a l s a i d w h i l e h i s group had closed the deal with MG, it is being pursued by several other groups for a partnership Speculation is JSW is holding talks with V o l k s w a g e n g r o u p f o r a partnership in India, apart f r o m t a l k i n g t o C h i n e s e Leapmotor to license their technology for EVs “There are so many opportunities, and we keep on discussing India is buzz word today, and there are lots of people w h o t a l k t o u s , a n d approach us, ” he said O n t h e n e w partnership, he said, “With MG, my dream is that we w i l l c r e a t e a M a r u t i movement Like 40 years ago when Maruti came to India, it changed the auto industry by bringing in very e f f i c i e n t a n d l i g h t w e i g h t cars Ambassadors and Fiats w e n t i n t o o b l i v i o n a s Maruti brought in state-ofthe-art new cars And today, they are the market leaders So, I believe with MG, we can create a New Energy V e h i c l e s ( N E V s ) M a r u t i movement,” Jindal said

De ca th l o n, t h e re no w n ed French sports brand, h as set its sights on India, aiming to make it one of its top five markets within the next five years The comp any plans to open 1 0 new stores in India ev ery year, said Steve Dykes, ch i ef retai l a nd c ou n trie s officer H e s a i d t h i s o n t h e s i d e l i n e s o f a n e v e n t i n Paris, where the company u n v e i l e d i t s n e w l o g o , known as the “orbit”, and a new brand identity Dykes highlighted the potential of I n d i a ’ s v a s t d o m e s t i c market, noting that 60% of Decathlon products sold in India are already made in the country “We want to get to 90 to 95%, if possible,” Dykes said “India is already

in the top 10 markets and we want it to get into the top five I feel we are really on the right track at the m o m e n t A n d l e t ’ s h o p e within the five years it will be in the top five,” he added The company has 122 stores in 19 states D e c a t h l o n i s k e e n t o ensure the sustainability of i t s p r o d u c t s a n d a i m s t o source components as close to India as possible This aligns with ‘Make in India’ i n i t i a t i v e , w h i c h t h e c o m p a n y h a s b e e n s u p p o r t i n g s i n c e M o d i ’ s tenure as CM of Gujarat Dykes also emphasised the changing sporting culture in I n d i a , w i t h a n i n c r e a s i n g number of people choosing sports as a career

IndiGo exploring purchase of widebody aircraft to counter Air India

In d iG o i s e x pl o r in g t he pu r cha s e o f wi d eb o d y a i r cr a ft , according t o peopl e familiar with the mat ter, a move that would give Asia’s biggest b udg et carrier a grea ter int erna tiona l radius and inte nsify competition with Air India Ltd

The airline is still considering several options, with an order for about 30 Airbus SE A350s emerging as the most likely choice, said sources A decision could be announced in the next few weeks, the people said, cautioning that IndiGo could still change its mind about timing and the number of planes

IndiGo has repeatedly toyed with the idea of introducing long-haul services to tap the growing pool of affluent Indians flying further afield to places such as the UK and Europe The low-cost carrier currently operates two Boeing Co 777s leased from Turkish Airlines to Istanbul and has otherwise built its fleet around single-aisle jets made up almost entirely of Airbus planes The airline is already one of Airbus’s largest customers after placing a record-breaking order for 500 A320neo family aircraft last summer IndiGo now has a backlog of around 1,000 aircraft Branching out into long-haul operations is not without r i s k f

in brief

Maldives president seeks debt relief from India

a l m e d i a s i n c e a s s u m i n g o f f i c e , M u i z z u s a i d I n d i a w a s instrumental in providing aid to the Maldives and has implement-

Mohamed Muizzu

ed the “greatest number” of projects India would continue to remain Maldives’ closest ally, he said and emphasised that there w a s n o q u e s t i o n a b o u t i t M a l d i v e s ’ p r o x i m i t y t o I n d i a , barely 70 nautical miles from the

Pak minister says 'seriously' looking to restore trade ties with India

IS L A M A BA D: Pakistan Foreig n M in i st er I sh a q D ar s ai d h is c ou ntry i s " s erio us ly" lo oki ng i nto restoring trad e ties w ith India w hich w ere su spended in A ugust 2019 after th e abrogatio n o f A rticle 3 70 by the C entral g overnment, that scrapped th e s pecial status for Jam mu and K ashm ir

He made the remarks while addressing a press conference in London, according to a report “ P a k i s t a n i b u s i n e s s m e n w a n t trade with India to resume, ” Dar said, adding that “ we will seriously look into matters of trade with India"

When Pakistan suspended its trade ties with India, it said the decision to revoke the spec i a l s t a t u s f o r J a m m u a n d Kashmir undermined the envir o n m e n t f o r h o l d i n g t a l k s between the neighbours

In 2021, the two neighbouring nations agreed to renew the 2003 ceasefire agreement along t h e L i n e o f C o n t r o l ( L o C ) despite the frosty bilateral ties E a r l i e r t h i s m o n t h , a f t e r

Shehbaz Sharif took oath as the 24th Prime Minister of Pakistan, his second term since 2022, he

thanked his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi for felicitating him on his re-election

"Thank you @narendramodi for felicitations on my election a s t h e P r i m e M i n i s t e r o f P a k i s t a n , ” S h a r i f t w e e t e d o n

March 7 Sharif's tweet came two days after Prime Minister Modi congratulated him on his re-election

M e a n w h i l e , t h e P a k i s t a n

F o r e i g n M i n i s t e r ' s r e m a r k s c a m e a f t e r E x t e r n a l A f f a i r s Minister S Jaishankar slammed I s l a m a b a d , s a y i n g t h a t N e w Delhi cannot "overlook" terrorism in an attempt to mend ties with the neighbouring nation

While addressing an event in Singapore, Jaishankar said, "It's not a one-off happening but v e r y s u s t a i n e d , a l m o s t a t a n industry level So what we have come to conclude is that we have to find a way of addressing (the menace), that dodging the problem gets us nowhere, it only invites more trouble "

"Every country wants a stable neighbourhood if nothing else, you want at least a quiet n e i g h b o u r h o o d , " t h e E x t e r n a l Affairs Minister added

11 killed as security forces thwart attack on CPEC’s Gwadar port M

I S L A M A B A D : Pa k se c ur i t y forces shot dea d sev en Ba loch separ atist s a rmed wit h guns and b om b s wh e n t h e y a t t a ck e d

Pa kista n ’ s strat egic Gwadar Port Authority Comple x, a ke y to the m u l t i- b i l l i on - do l l a r Ch i n aPa kista n Econ omic Corridor

The militants stormed the c o m p l e x i n s o u t h w e s t e r n B a l u c h i s t a n p r o v i n c e w h i c h houses offices of different govt departments, intelligence agencies and paramilitary forces, said S a e e d A h m e d U m r a n i , t h e region’s commissioner

“Attackers carried out many blasts,” he said, adding that it was followed by an attack with guns He said the army and police were r e s p o n d i n g “ I h a v e r e c e i v e d reports that seven attackers have been killed,” Umrani added An army source said that four soldiers were also killed

T h e U n i t e d N a t i o n s D e p a r t m e n t f o r S a f e t y a n d S e c u r i t y s a i d “ s e v e r a l e x p l osions followed by continuous firing” were reported during the a t t a c k T h e s t a t e m e n t a d d e d t h e r e w e r e n o i m m e d i a t e reports of casualties, elaborating that seven personnel from t h r e e U N a g e n c i e s b a s e d i n Gwadar and two UN agencies o n m i s s i o n s w e r e “ s a f e a n d accounted for”

Majeed Brigade, a suicide s q u a d o f t h e p r o s c r i b e d

Balochistan Liberation Army, claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it targeted offices of military intelligence located in the complex BLA mostly targets security forces and Chinese i n t e r e s t s i n P a k i s t a n Intelligence reports suggest it maintains sanctuaries in areas along the Pakistan-Iran border

s t r a t e g i c i m p o r t a n c e M u i z z u u r g e d I n d i a t o a c c o m m o d a t e debt relief measures in repayment of “the hefty loans taken over consecutive governments” He said the loans taken from India were heftier than can be borne by the Maldivian economy

“Hence, we are holding discussions to explore leniency in the repayment structure of these l o a n s ” H i s c o m m e n t s c o m e ahead of the parliament elections in Maldives slated in mid April

INDIAN STUDENT IN US GOES MISSING, PARENTS GET RANSOM CALL

A student from Hyderabad has gone missing in Cleveland while his family in India has received a ransom call Mohammed Abdul Arfath, 25, who was pursuing a master’s degree in information technology at Cleveland University has not been in touch with the family since March 7 He came to the US in May 2023 His parents residing in Malkajgiri district near Hyderabad have received a call demanding a ransom of $12 000 The unidentified caller informed them their son had been kidnapped and threatened to sell his kidney The caller demanded the ransom but did not mention the mode of payment

i s l a n d o f M i n i c o y i n L a k s h a d w e e p a n d a r o u n d 3 0 0 nautical miles from the mainland’s western coast, and its location at the hub of commercial sea lanes running through the Indian Ocean Region gives it significant

Muizzu, who expressed hope that India would “facilitate debt relief measures in the repayment of these loans”, also said that he has conveyed his appreciation to the Indian government for its contributions

Indians contributed richly to the development of cricket in Saudi Arabia

RIYADH: The In dian dia spora has c on tri buted ric hly to the developmen t of cric ket played in Saudi A ra bia for over five decades It was i n 1978 whe n, f or t he f i r s t t i m e , r e g i on al crick et ass ociations in Ri yadh, Jeddah, and Dam mam began organi zing matches on weekends an d developed i mproved crick et faci li ties

In 2003, after obtaining a l i c e n s e f r o m t h e G e n e r a l Presidency for Youth Welfare, Saudi Cricket was formally registered as an associate member of the Asian Cricket Council and an affiliate member of the International Cricket Council with its main objective to promote, popularize and develop the game in the Kingdom at the grassroots level

In 2020, the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation, the official governing body of the sport in the Kingdom, under the ausp i c e s o f t h e S a u d i A r a b i a n Olympic Committee and the Ministry of Sports, was finally established, with Prince Saud bin Mishal Al-Saud as chairman of the federation

But the game has a storied

heritage in Saudi Arabia as for years, South Asian expatriates have taken part in self-organized matches on the streets a n d p a r k i n g l o t s o f R i y a d h , Jeddah, Dammam and other c i t i e s W h e r e v e r t h e y w e n t , they took cricket with them

An Indian cricket club that has played an important role in the rise of the game ’ s popularity at the community level in r e c e n t y e a r s i s t h e G K I n t e r n a t i o n a l I n d i a n S p o r t s Club in Riyadh

“The growth of cricket in t h e K i n g d o m i s a n i n s p i r ational story,” Dr Gayas Ahmed Sattar, GKIISC president, said “Cricket in the desert was just next to impossible a few decades ago A country with a football craze had no idea of the game Now popular, cricket has made its presence felt and made its roots strong, thanks to the efforts of the expats from South Asian countries, i n c l u d i n g I n d i a T h e I n d i a n d i a s p o r a h a s c o n t r i b u t e d b y and large to this effort from the grassroots level to the management level of the game, ” said Sattar

NUS appoints 2 Indian origins to its board of trustees

S I NG AP OR E : Two p ro minent Indian ori gin professio nals, Ju stic e Ju dith P rakash and Ravi Meno n, were amo ng three new members to be app ointed to board o f trustees of National University of Si ngapore (NUS), acco rding to a statement fro m the institu tio n NUS said Justice Judith Prakash, Tan Chong Meng and Ravi Menon have been made part of its board of trustees of the prestigious varsity The three new members of the board, who are all NUS alumni, will begin their terms on April 1, the university said Menon was the longest-serving managing director of Monetary Authority of Singapore, holding the position from 2011 until his retirement on January 1 this year

He was also the deputy chairman of Central Provident Fund Board and sat on the boards of Housing and Development Board and DBS He is currently the chairman of Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ) Asia-Pacific Network advisory board and a member of GFANZ Principals Group He is also a trustee of Singapore Indian Development Association (SINDA) Justice Prakash, who is a senior judge, has served on the Supreme Court Bench for more than 30 years

She was the first woman to be appointed a permanent judge of Court of Appeal and was previously the lead judge for arbitration matters She currently sits on the boards of trustees of SINDA and Eurasian Association Tan was the group CEO of port operator PSA International until his retirement this month He is currently the chairman of Jurong Town Corporation (JTC) and the deputy chairman of the board of National University Health System

INDIAN PROFESSIONAL DIES IN US CAR ACCIDENT

A 24-year-old Indian professional was killed in a car accident in the US state of Pennsylvania Arshia Joshi lost her life in a car accident in Pennsylvania on March 21, the Consulate General of India in New York said in a post, expressing deep condolences to her family Joshi had completed her graduation last year The Consulate said it was in touch with Joshi’s family and local community leaders “Extending all possible help to transport her mortal remains to India at the earliest,” it said, without divulging more details about the deceased Volunteer-based nonprofit organisation TEAM Aid is assisting in sending Joshi’s mortal remains to Delhi to her family

YOGESH RAUT IS JEOPARDY CHAMP

Blogger freelance writer, and podcaster Yogesh Raut has won the 2024 Jeopardy! Tournament of Champions Raut took home the $250,000 grand prize and punched his ticket to the upcoming Jeopardy Masters competition, where he will face off against some of the topperforming players in Jeopardy history Raut from Vancouver Washington defeated Ben Chan a philosophy professor from Green Bay Wisconsin and Troy Meyer a music executive from Tampa Florida Raut has been on the show before – in January 2023 – when he won $98,000 after being on air for four days He was not a popular contestant drawing ire online for what was dubbed as his bad sportsmanship

2 INDIAN FISHERMEN MISSING, ONE PAK SAILOR KILLED

Two Indian fishermen were missing while one Pakistani sailor was killed in an incident at sea according to Pakistan maritime authorities The Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) said one of its ships was patrolling Pakistan’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) when it encountered around eight Indian fishing vessels engaged in “illegal fishing activities” To evade capture, it said, one of the fishing boats increased its speed and started to move towards Indian waters It slowed down after multiple verbal warnings, allowing the PMSA ship’s boarding team to embark “Once PMSA personnel were on board, it suddenly accelerated and collided with the PMSA ship Consequently, the fishing vessel sank with all onboard

DEATHS FOR 2 PAK STUDENTS OVER BLASPHEMY KILLING

A court in northwestern Pakistan has sentenced two female seminary students to death and another to life imprisonment for killing their teacher on blasphemy charges in March 2022 The three women from Jamia Islamia Falahul Binaat seminary in Dera Ismail Khan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province were arrested two years ago for murdering their teacher Safoora Bibi alleging she had committed blasphemy The assault took place at the seminary s gate where the students beat their teacher with sticks before slitting her throat After learning of the incident the teacher’s uncle had informed the police that his niece had been tortured and killed in

137 KILLED IN MOSCOW CONCERT HALL CARNAGE

Russia said that it had arrested all four gunmen suspected of carrying out a shooting massacre in a concert hall near Moscow The so-called Islamic State claimed responsibility for Friday s rampage but there were indications that Russia was pursuing a Ukrainian link, despite emphatic denials from Ukrainian officials that Kyiv had anything to do with it Russia’s state Investigative Committee said 137 people had been killed State TV editor Margarita Simonyan, without citing a source, had earlier given a toll of 143 In a televised address, Putin said 11 people had been detained, including the four gunmen

WICKREMESINGHE'S DIRECTIVE ON PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe has instructed his Cabinet to prepare for the presidential election to be held later this year as the cash-starved nation strives to recover from its worst economic crisis The next presidential election must be called by the elections commission by September and must be held by mid-November The parliament election is not due before August of 2025 but President Wickremesinghe has the power to hold it anytime now by dissolving the 225member Assembly elected in August 2020 Ending speculation Wickremesinghe during a Cabinet meeting announced that the presidential election will be held first and instructed it to prepare for the polls, Daily Mirror said, quoting sources

12 MINERS KILLED IN EXPLOSION

At least 12 miners have been killed in a gas explosion at a coal pit in Pakistan s southwestern province of Balochistan The explosion at the private pit in Harnai, in the mining region of Khost, leaving workers trapped about 240 metres (800 feet) underground in the subsequent cave-in Rescuers worked overnight, recovering the bodies of the 12 miners Eight people attempting to rescue their colleagues were also trapped for several hours They were later brought to safety – some of them unconscious – by a government rescue team

IRAN CURRENCY HITS A RECORD LOW

Iran’s currency fell to a record low on Sunday plunging to 613 500 to the dollar as its people celebrated Persian New Year On Sunday people were trying

All-Indian crew on container ship that collided with Baltimore bridge

B ALTIM O RE : A s hip ram me d into the major bridge in Baltimore early Tues day , c aus ing it to coll aps e in a m atter of sec onds and creating a terrifying s cene The entire 22-mem ber crew of the cargo s hip that c ol lided with a major bridge in Baltimore early Tues day , c aus ing it to s nap and plunge into t he river be low, are Indians, the company s aid The c oll aps e has creat ed a terrifying scene

“All crew members, including the two pilots, have been accounted for and there are no reports of any injuries There has also been no pollution,” ship management company Synergy Marine Group said in a statement Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now

The incident occurred at around 1:27 a m ET (10:57 am IST) when the container ship ‘Dali’ navigating down the Patapsco River en route to Sri Lanka struck a pylon of the bridge,

causing nearly the entire structure to crumple into the river The vessel, registered under Grace Ocean Pte Ltd and flying the Singapore flag, was heavily laden with containers, capable of carrying up to 10,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU), though it was carrying 4,679 TEU at the time of the collision

A c o n s t r u c t i o n c r e w w o r k i n g o n t h e bridge sustained casualties, with eight individuals falling into the river's icy waters, where

Biden's campaign freezes donation from Indian-American businessman

LO S ANG E LE S: The re-el ection c ampaign of US Pres ident Joe Biden and a Democratic Pa rty comm it tee have freez ed donations from an Indian-American business man amid al legations that he f als ely cl aim ed t o be ass oc iat ed with the Central Inte lligence Age ncy (CIA)

A Biden campaign official stated that a $50,000 donation to the Biden Victory Fund made by Gaurav Srivastava, who claimed to be associated with the CIA, last April was put in escrow due to concerns about its source and legality, according to Politico S i m i l a r l y , a s p o k e s p e r s o n f r o m t h e D e m o c r a t i c C o n g r e s s i o n a l C a m p a i g n

Committee, which received nearly $290,000 last year from Srivastava, stated that the committee has set aside the funds for the "foreseeable future" as a precautionary measure

The decision to freeze the funds follows media reports questioning Srivastava's business practices and philanthropy

President Joe Biden's re-election campaign said it has raised $10 million in the 24 hours following a fiery State of the Union address, where he accused Donald Trump of threatening democracy and torpedoing a bill

to tackle US immigration woes

While Srivastava, based in Los Angeles, has been active in various charitable causes, a profile by Project Brazen raised doubts about his integrity, including claims of false CIA ties The Atlantic Council, a think tank dealing w i t h i n t e r n a t i o n a l a f f a i r s , c u t t i e s w i t h Srivastava after struggling to verify his background, reported Politico

Srivastava, with his wife Sharon, donated over $1 million to the think tank for its Global Food Security Forum in Bali in November 2022 The businessman manages a charitable organisation named after himself and his w i f e , t h e ' G a u r a v a n d S h a r o n S r i v a s t a v a Family Foundation' The foundation, started in 2015, serves communities worldwide that lack the fundamental resources available in the United States Despite claiming to work for Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Operations, and Management (AECOM) in campaign filings, the global infrastructure firm has denied employing him in the US Srivastava later listed himself as the chairman of Unity Resource Group, a security operations company, reported Politico

Indian man arrested in Alabama over Ponzi scam worth $4,00,000

AL ABA M A: A young man f rom India has been indicte d in Alabam a in a cas e of Ponzi s cam worth $4,00,000 23-year-old Pathyam Patel, of Gujarat’s Gandhinagar, has been acc us ed of star ting to sel l s ecurities and collec ting m oney after guaranteeing m ass ive returns However, he never invest ed this in securities, but us ed them onl y f or his pers onal ex pens es

record low came less than a month after a parliamentary election that saw the lowest turnout since the 1979 Islamic Revolution whose results were dominated by hard-line politicians

BURGLAR CAUGHT DOING YOGA BEFORE BREAK IN AT BAKERY

A woman caught on security camera doing a yoga routine before allegedly breaking into a bakery and stealing an almond croissant a pair of shoes and cleaning products has been charged Australian police said The woman was captured on CCTV stretching for at least two minutes in a Melbourne bakery s carpark in the dead of night After various yoga inspired manoeuvres she entered Phillippa s Bakery headquarters The woman has been charged with theft, burglary and going equipped to steal She was later released on bail

O f f i c e r s o f A l a b a m a S e c u r i t i e s Commission (ASC) confirmed that Patel, also known as Pat Patel, was staying in Alabama He was arrested on March 6 based on as many as nine counts of securities law violations, according to reports

"The indictment alleges that Patel sold in

excess of $4,00,000 in investment contracts to at least six investors Patel represented that he was associated with Infinity Wealth Management, an investment advisory firm, which he claimed was registered with the US Securities and Exchange Commission," ASC said in a statement Patel said that he managed to earn a lot of profits for investors by investing their funds He also guaranteed that there would be no loss of their principal amount Patel, after getting his hands on the investors’ funds, told investors that they were required to pay additional fees in order to maintain their investments

temperatures measured a chilling 8°C Of the eight, two were rescued, one unhurt, and another critically injured, leaving six individuals still unaccounted for

E y e w i t n e s s e s c a p t u r e d t h e s h o c k i n g moment on video as the bridge crumpled into the waters of the Patapsco River below, with several vehicles plummeting into the chilly depths The vessel itself caught fire, shrouding the scene in thick black smoke Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott described the sight as "an unthinkable tragedy," likening it to something out of an action movie Scott declared a state of emergency in response to the bridge collapse Maryland state senator Johnny Ray Salling, who was from the area, said the bridge plays a vital role in not only transportation, but also commerce “Losing this bridge will devastate the entire area, as well as the entire East Coast,” said Salling, a Republican

Indra Nooyi cautions Indian students in US

NEW YO RK: Am id a string of tragic and concerning incidents involving Ind ian stud ents in the US, former CE O of Pep siCo Indra No oyi has ad vised them to be " watchful", resp ect local law s and urged th em to not engage in d rug s o r excessiv e d rinking to ensu re their safety and security in this cou ntry Noo yi issued an over 1 0-minute long v ideo adv ising Indian stud ents co ming to the US to stay safe and alert and to av oid activ ities that can land them in trouble Th e v ideo was po sted on X by the Consulate General o f India in New Yo rk

"The reason I'm recording this video is to talk to all of you, all you young people who are looking to come to the United States or a r e h e r e a l r e a d y p u r s u i n g y o u r s t u d i e s , because I've been reading and listening to all the news about several examples of Indian students finding themselves in unfortunate situations," Nooyi, 68, said in the video

"It's up to you to make sure you do what it takes to remain safe stay within the law, do not venture out into dark places alone at night, do not engage in drugs or excessive drinking please All of these are just formulae for disaster," she said

Nooyi pleaded with the students coming to the US to "choose your university and course carefully" She added that coming to the US to pursue higher education can be a "cultural sea change" for many because they are away from the comforts of their families, communities and ecosystems

Canada govt proposes to delay polls next year to avoid Diwali clash

To ro nto: T he C anad ian g o v ernm ent h as pro posed mov ing national electio ns scheduled for October 20 next year by a week so as to accomm od ate Hindu s and o th er faith comm unities that will celebrate the festiv al of Diw ali on that day

That proposal to shift the polling date to October 27 was part of a package of reforms to the Elections Act which constitute an a m e n d m e n t b i l l t a b l e d i n t h e H o u s e o f Commons this week In a press release, the Democratic Institutions department noted the bill aims to enhance voter participation by “ensuring that the fixed date election in 2025 does not conflict with Diwali by moving it to the following Monday”, among other measures

The proposed reform was welcomed by the Hindu community, though more substantive measures to combat Hinduphobia were also sought

Kushagr Sharma, vice-president of the Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce (CHCC) pointed out that when municipal e l e c t i o n s w e r e h e l d i n t h e p r o v i n c e o f Ontario last year, and the date clashed with Diwali, there was a 5% decrease in voter turnout, with “significant drops” of 10% in Brampton and 11 per cent in Toronto

“These are all areas where there is a significant Hindu and other Indic religions This highlights the impact of scheduling conflicts on civic engagement, particularly given Diwali’s importance for the Hindus

and other dharmic faiths in Canada There is a need for election authorities to consider cultural and religious observances of Hindus to ensure inclusivity and participation in the democratic process, ” he said

The announcement was appreciated by the Canadian chapter of the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) Its president Rishabh Sarswat said, “In recent years, the Hindu community has been subjected to a series of attacks by Khalistani protesters, especially around Diwali The election period may exacerbate risks to the Hindu community, who become more visible during festive seasons due to temple visits and traditional attire ” CoHNA Canada has sought “concrete steps” to safety the community

Indra Nooyi

Amul starts selling fresh milk in US; ties up with Michigan association

T h e G u j a r a t C o -o p e r a t i v e

M ilk Ma rke ting Fe der ation ( GCMMF), th e producer s of A m u l m ilk , h a s p a r t n e r e d w i t h t he M i ch i g a n M i lk P r o d u ce r s A s so c ia t i on

( M M P A ) , A m e r ic a ’ s t e n t h lar gest da ir y coope ra tive , t o s u p pl y f r e s h m il k i n t h e c o un t r y Th e pa r t n e r sh i p wa s a nn oun ced at t he 108t h a n n ual m ee t in g of M MPA he ld a t Nov i, M ichiga n T h e p a r t n e r s h i p b e t w e e n G C M M F , t h e w o r l d ’ s l a r g e s t f a r m e rowned cooperative, and the 1 0 8 - y e a r - o l d M M P A i s a c o n t i n u a t i o n o f A m u l ’ s relations with Michigan Dr V e r g h e s e K u r i e n , t h e f o u n d e r c h a i r m a n o f GCMMF who is credited for

u s h e r i n g i n t h e W h i t e Revolution in India, was an alumnus of Michigan State University

On February 22, Modi had asked farmers of Gujarat to turn Amul into world’s l a r g e s t d a i r y w h i l e addressing a gathering at the golden jubilee celebrations of GCMMF in Ahmedabad “We are very honoured and pleased to enter into an a s s o c i a t i o n w i t h M M P A This association will ensure

all our American and Indian consumers are n o u r i s h e d a n d e n e r g i z e d w i t h t h e g o o d n e s s o f A m u l m i l k , ” J a y e n M e h t a , m a n a g i n g d i r e c t o r o f

GCMMF, said

“It is our great pleasure to bring ‘The Taste of India’ to the world in alignment with the vision of the PM to make Amul a global dairy brand,” he said

After launching the fresh m i l k v a r i a n t s , A m u l i s p l a n n i n g t o l a u n c h o t h e r d a i r y p r o d u c t s , i n c l u d i n g curd, buttermilk and paneer, in the US market to cater to t h e e v e r - g r o w i n g d e m a n d f r o m t h e I n d i a n d i a s p o r a there

14 hurt in MP’s Mahakal temple fire, gulal chemical suspected to have triggered it

A t le as t 1 4 d ev o te es an d p ri ests were injured in a fire i n s i de t h e s a nc t u m s a nc t o ru m o f Ma h ak a l temp le in Ujjain in the early h ou rs of Ho li , o n Monday It’s th e first time th at such an incident hap pened at th e J yo tirlinga temple T he fire broke out du ring Bh asmarti w h e n de vo t ee s w er e sh owering colours as part of H o li c el eb r at io ns , t em p l e m an a ge me nt c o m mi t te e c h ai rm a n a nd Uj j a i n c o l l ec to r Ne e ra j K u ma r S ingh sai d W i t n e s s e s s a i d t h e r e was a sudden sweeping flash o f f l a m e s w h e n g u l a l ( c o l o u r ) w a s b e i n g s h o w e r e d o n t h e d e i t y d u r i n g t h e B h a s m a r t i r i t u a l s , i n d i c a t i n g t h a t

c h e m i c a l s i n t h e c o l o u r s might have ignited T h e i n j u r e d i n c l u d e temple priests, their sons and temple sevaks “Eight people have been referred to a private hospital in Indore Their condition is stable,” t h e c o l l e c t o r s a i d C h i e f m i n i s t e r M o h a n Y a d a v rushed to Indore and Ujjain t o m e e t t h e v i c t i m s a n d announced a compensation of Rs100,000 each Ujjain is

t h e C M ’ s hometown T h e C M t o l d reporters that he has o r d e r e d a m a g i s t e r i a l p r o b e i n t o t h e i n c i d e n t “ A t t e m p t s w i l l b e m a d e t o f i n d o u t w h o i s a t f a u l t Action will be taken against them,” he said, adding the a d m i n i s t r a t i o n w i l l t a k e steps to ensure that such incidents are not repeated U n i o n h o m e m i n i s t e r A m i t S h a h a l s o t o o k cognizance of the incident and posted on X that he had s p o k e n w i t h C M Y a d a v about the incident and the administration is providing treatment and assistance to the injured

CBI registers FIR against Mahua Moitra on Lokpal’s order

C BI f il ed a n FI R ag ai n s t f ormer MP Mahua Moitra i n co n n e c t i o n w i t h t he c a s h - f o r - q ue ry ca s e T he move comes in the wa ke of d irections of L ok pal, w hich i s s u e d d i r e c ti on s t o C BI a fter re cei vin g fin din gs of C BI ’ s p rel imi n ary i nq ui ry i n to a lle g at io n s mad e by B JP ’ s N i s h i k a n t D u b e y a gain st Moitra

M o i t r a h a s b e e n a c c u s e d o f a s k i n g q u e s t i o n s i n L S i n exchange for cash and gifts f r o m b u s i n e s s m a n D a r s h a n H i r a n a n d a n i t o target industrialist Gautam Adani and PM Modi

Last Oct, Hiranandani had submitted an affidavit t o t h e L S E t h i c s C o m m i t t e e a l l e g i n g t h a t Moitra had provided him with her “Parliament login and password” so that he “could post questions on her behalf when required”

L o k S a b h a h a d e x p e l l e d Moitra in Dec last year for “unethical conduct”

C BI giv en s ix mon ths time

E a r l i e r , a t h r e emember bench of Lokpal

asked CBI to register an FIR and investigate within six months all allegations r e l a t e d t o q u i d p r o q u o against Moitra for allowing H i r a n a n d a n i t o u s e h e r Parliament portal login to post at least 58 questions, a l l t y p e d b y h i m f r o m d i f f e r e n t l o c a t i o n s , including the UAE, US and Bengaluru

The bench, headed by Justice Abhilasha Kumari a n d c o m p r i s i n g A r c h a n a R a m a s u n d a r a m & M a h e n d e r S i n g h , s a i d i t found allegations against t h e f o r m e r L S M P “extremely serious” which n e e d e d a d e e p e r p r o b e L o k p a l h a s t a k e n c o g n i s a n c e o f t h e p r e l i m i n a r y r e p o r t s u b m i t t e d b y C B I a n d passed the judgment after hearing Moitra’s lawyer

Q u o t i n g f r o m C B I ’ s preliminary inquiry report on alleged favours received b y M o i t r a , t h e L o k p a l bench said, “Hiranandani made the payment for the trip of the RPS (respondent

from

SC gives ‘clock’ symbol to Ajit Pawar group for now

A le gal disput e be twee n Ajit

P a w a r a n d h i s p o li t i ca l m e n t or S h a r a d P a w a r f o r co n t r ol o f t he N a t i on a lis t

Con gre ss Pa rty (NCP) a nd its symbol is unde rwa y In a n int er im ord er, t he Supre me Cour t per mitte d Ajit Pawa r t o campa ig n un der t he NCP n ame an d its 'clock' sy mbol

Howeve r, t he Court directe d t he Election Commission to r ecognize the riv al faction as 'NCP Sha ra dcha ndr a Pa war' a nd re se rv e the sy mbol of ma n blo w i n g t u r h a (t rumpet ) for it

A bench of Justices Surya Kant and K V Viswanathan also directed Ajit’s faction to give notice in newspapers s t a t i n g t h a t t h e m a t t e r pertaining to legal fight over the symbol is subjudice and i s s u b j e c t t o t h e f i n a l outcome of the case It said t h a t t h e f a c t i o n s h o u l d

m e n t i o n i t i n a l l i t s p a m p h l e t s o r a u d i o / v i d e o a d v e r t i s e m e n t m e a n t t o attract voters

“The respondents (NCP Ajit Pawar) are directed to issue a public notice in the n e w s p a p e r s i n E n g l i s h , M a r a t h i , H i n d i e d i t i o n s notifying that the allocation o f t h e ‘ c l o c k ’ s y m b o l i s s u b j u d i c e a n d t h e r e s p o n d e n t s s h a l l b e permitted to use the same subject to the final outcome of the proceedings,” the SC bench stated

The bench agreed with s e n i o r a d v o c a t e A b h i s h e k M a n u S i n g h v i w h o , appearing for senior Pawar, pressed for recognition of his faction and also that the ‘ t r u m p e t ’ s y m b o l b e n o t a l l o t t e d t o a n y p a r t y o r independent candidate The c o u r t , h o w e v e r , d i d n o t a l l o w h i s p l e a t h a t A j i t faction be not allowed to use the ‘clock’ symbol which he said was inextricably linked with the NCP founder Senior advocate Mukul R o h a t g i a n d l a w y e r A b h i k a l p P r a t a p S i n g h , representing Ajit's faction, argued before the Supreme C o u r t t h a t t h e E l e c t i o n C o m m i s s i o n ( E C ) , a f t e r considering both factions, i s s u e d a f i n a l o r d e r recognising Ajit's faction as t h e l e g i t i m a t e N a t i o n a l i s t Congress Party (NCP)

ASI begins survey of Bhojshala complex in MP

The Supr eme Cour t declined to inter vene in the Madhya P r a d e sh H ig h C o ur t ' s d ir e ct i ve fo r t h e A r ch a e o l og i ca l S ur v e y o f India t o con duct a survey of t h e B h oj sh a l a co mp l e x , st at in g th at it wo uld onl y issue a rul ing a fte r hearing a r g u me n t s fr o m b ot h p a r t ie s Th e Ma u l a n a

Kamaluddin We lfare Society ra ise d the mat ter b efore a b e n c h c om p r is in g J us t ic e s Hr ishikesh Roy an d Prashant Kuma r Mishra, seek in g a stay on the high court 's orde r H o w e v e r , t h e c o u r t e m p h a s i s e d t h a t a n y d e c i s i o n w o u l d b e m a d e f o l l o w i n g a t h o r o u g h consideration of both sides' p e r s p e c t i v e s G i v e n t h e impending recess for a week, the bench agreed to hear the c a s e o n t h e f i r s t d a y o f reopening and scheduled the matter for April 1st On March 10, MP high c o u r t h a d d i r e c t e d A S I t o carry out within six weeks a ‘ s c i e n t i f i c s u r v e y ’ o f B h o j s h a l a c o m p l e x , a m e d i e v a l - e r a m o n u m e n t t h a t H i n d u s b e l i e v e i s a temple of Goddess Vagdevi

(Saraswati), while Muslims call it Kamal Maula Mosque Following the directive, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) commenced its s u r v e y u n d e r t i g h t p o l i c e security A team consisting of 15 ASI officers, including f i v e e x p e r t c o m m i t t e e m e m b e r s , a l o n g w i t h 2 4 excavation workers, entered the compound for the study T h e A S I t e a m c o n c l u d e d their work at Bhojshala by noon, allowing Muslims to o b s e r v e F r i d a y n a m a z , a s p e r m i t t e d b y a 2 0 0 3 A S I order

p p r o v e d t h e name Station Shiv Shakti for the landing site

a i

Gazetteer of Planetary Nomenclature, which provides information about planetary names approved by IAU Modi had made the announcement at the Isro Telemetry Tracking and Command Network (Istrac) in Bengaluru on Aug 26,

“ I n S h i v a , t h e r e ’ s r e s o l u t i o n f o r h u m a

i t y ’ s w e l f a r e a n d S h a k t i g i v e s u s strength to fulfil those resolutions This Shiva Shakti Point of Moon also gives a sense o f c o n n e c t i o n w i t h t h e H i m a l a y a s t o

Kanyakumari,” Modi had said

According to Gazetteer, the origin of the name is defined as: “Compound word from Indian mythology that depicts the masculine (“Shiva”) and feminine (“Shakti”) duality of nature ”

Fifteen years before the Chandrayaan-3 soft-landing, India’s Chandrayaan-1’s moon impact probe (MIP) had touched the lunar surface on Nov 14, 2008 The site was called “ J a w a h a r P o i n t ” o r “ J a w a h a r S t h a l ” , a s notified to IAU

Cong 4th list out, Digvijaya gets Rajgarh, Rawat’s son Hardwar

Vete ran leade r D igvijay a Singh will cont est the Lok Sabha el ection from R ajgarh in Madhya Pra desh, while former chief minist er Harish Ra wa t’s son will tr y his l uck fr om Har dwa r in Utt arak ha nd

Congress released its fourth list comprising 46 candidates a c r o s s U P , A s s a m , A n d a m a n , C h h a t t i s g a r h , J & K , M P , Maharashtra, Manipur, Mizoram, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal Congress has left the Nagaur seat in Rajasthan for RLD of Hanuman Beniwal The prospect of tie-up with RLD triggered heartburn in some quarters, with speculations that former MLA Divya Maderna may quit Congress There was no change in Jaipur city candidate announced earlier, where nomination of Sunil Sharma has kicked off a row as he is said to be allegedly involved in a Right Wing Youtube channel Virender Rawat, son of former CM Rawat, will contest Hardwar seat, which comprises the rural constituency that has his sister

Anupama as the MLA The seat was a bone of contention as the party was nudging Harish Rawat to contest while the latter was insistent on his son ’ s nomination The veteran seems to have had his way in the final choice Rahul Gandhi confidant Prakash Joshi is the nominee from Nainital seat C o n g r e s s ’ s p u s h t o h a v e s e n i o r l e a d e r s w i t h g r e a t e r winnability potential to contest in the Hindi belt has resulted in 75-year-old Digvijaya Singh contesting from Rajgarh He has already started his campaign, in what would be a battle of prestige for the senior party leader Senior Congress man Kantilal Bhuria is the nominee from Ratlam ST seat

Tanuj Punia, son of former MP and IAS-turned politician PL Punia, will contest from Barabanki reserved seat in UP, while Ajay Rai, UP Congress chief, will contest from Varanasi, the seat of PM Narendra Modi BSP MP Danish Ali is the party nominee from Amroha, and former union minister Pradeep Jain Aditya from Jhansi

Ajit Pawar

Kangana, former Calcutta judge, Sita Soren, Jitin Prasada in BJP 5th list

Arun Go vil, th e acto r w ho p layed Lord Ram in th e po pul ar Ramayan s erial, is in the lis t o f BJP’s 111 candidates annou nced on Sunday as it al so h as a f ew major drops like two U nio n ministers, V K Singh f rom G ha z iaba d a nd Ash w ini C h o ub ey f rom Buxar in Bihar, while UP minister Jitin Prasada h as rep laced c ont r o v er s i al V ar u n Ga n dh i f r o m P il ibh it even as his moth er Maneka G a ndh i h a s b e en r ep ea t e d f r o m Sultanp ur P r o m i n e n t a c t r e s s K a n g a n a Ranaut has been named from Mandi in Himachal Pradesh, where she will take on Congress state president and incumbent MP Pratibha Singh, a signal that the party will make no concessions for the Congress leader, whose son Vikramaditya Singh, a minister in the state, has been rebellious against his party leadership J i t i n P r a s a d a , o r i g i n a l l y f r o m

Congress, had joined BJP before the last assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh Son of former deputy PM Devilal, Ranjit Chautala, has also figured in the list from Hisar in Haryana, being rewarded minutes after joining the party BJP also fielded its Kerala unit president K Surendra against Rahul G a n d h i i n W a y a n a d S e n i o r B J P leader and one of the prominent OBC faces of the party, Union min-

ister Dharmendra Pradhan has been fielded from Sambalpur in Odisha, making a return to electoral politics after 2009 He was elected to LS from Deogarh in 2004, but lost the seat in 2009 and was accommodated in Rajya Sabha Govil, who has replaced incumbent Rajendra Agrawal from Meerut, had contested Lok Sabha polls as a C o

Kejriwal moves HC against ‘illegal’ arrest ahead of polls

Delhi chief minister A rvind Kejr iwal move d hig h cour t, cha lleng in g his “illega l” a rre st a nd s u bs e qu e n t r e m a n d b y E n f o r ce m e n t D ir e ct o r a t e in a m on e y la un d e r in g ca s e lin k e d t o t he a lle ge d Delhi ex cise po li cy scam While the ple a sought urg ent he arin g, source s in t he HC indicat ed t hat t he ma tte r will be listed in due course, on or afte r March 27 when HC r eopen s a ft er Holi v acat ion Ea rlie r, a t rial court had re mand ed him in ED’s cust ody till Mar ch 28 “for his det aile d a nd sustain ed int er rogat ion”

In his plea, Kejriwal, who was apprehended in a swift move by ED last week, contended that his arrest and remand were illegal and that he was entitled to be released from custody immediately The petition said it was raising “ an issue of liberty and exercise of arbitrary powers by a central agency in a federal setup in the midst of general election 2024 ” ED had arrested Kejriwal hours after the HC refused to grant him protection from coercive action by the central agency This is the third time in a week that the CM has knocked on the doors of the high court

Earlier, Kejriwal had moved court for quashing and setting aside all proceedings, including the ED summonses issued against him In that petition, Kejriwal said he is a “vocal critic” of the ruling party, an opposition leader and a partner in the INDIA bloc, and ED, being under Centre’s control, had been “weaponised” After the court sought ED’s stand on that plea, but denied any i m m e d i a t e r e l i e f , t h e C M ’ s l e g a l t e a m approached court again the very next day seeking a direction to ED that “ no coercive steps” be taken so that he can appear and answer the summons However, the court

declined to intervene at that stage, triggering his arrest The case against Kejriwal pertains to alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing Delhi govt’s excise policy for 2021-22 which was later scrapped Top AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh are in judicial custody in the case Kejriwal’s name has been mentioned multiple times in the chargesheets filed by ED

Ind ia prote sts G er man r ema rks I n d i a l o

Germany against its foreign office spokespers

Kejriwal, accusing Berlin of undermining the independence of Indian judiciary with its “biased assumptions” about what is an internal matter of India Calling for a fair trial for Kejriwal in the Delhi excise policy scam case, the German foreign ministry had reminded Indian authorities that presumption of innocence is central to the rule of law The ministry of external affairs (MEA) summoned the German Deputy Chief of Mission in New Delhi and conveyed a strong protest against their foreign office spokesperson Sebastian F i

affairs Fischer made the comment asked about the arrest at a govt press conference

Hyderabad-based Megha group top electoral bond donor

The E lect ion Comm is sion rel eased dat a that c leared the air on who funded whic h party for £ 1 2 2 bil lion wor th of e le c tora l b onds , or a bout 74% of the tot al is sued, bas ed on inf orm at ion provided to it by SBI foll owing a Suprem e Cour t order

The data showed that the biggest donors to BJP, which got about half of the amounts raised through EBs, were Hyderabad-based M e g h a E n g i n e e r i n g & I n f r a s t r u c t u r e L t d (£58 4 mn), Qwik Supply Chain (£37 5 mn), mining and metals giant Vedanta Ltd (£23 mn) and Bharti Airtel (£18 3 mn) For Congress, the biggest chunks came from Vedanta (£12 5 mn) and Western UP Power Transmission Co (£11 mn), which is part of the Megha group

While nine separate entities contributed more than £10 mn to BJP and another 11 gave between £5 mn and 10 mn, Congress had just two firms that donated over £10 mn and a n o t h e r f o u r i n t h e £ 5 - 1 0 m n r a n g e Trinamool, the third largest recipient of EB

to BJP

funds, had lottery major Future Gaming and Hotel Services Pvt Ltd as its biggest benefactor (£54 2 mn) and Haldia Energy of the RPG Sanjeev Goenka group as the next biggest with £28 1 mn The biggest donor, Future Gaming and Hotel Services Pvt Ltd gave the biggest portion of its largesse to regional parties like Trinamool (£54 2 mn), DMK (£50 3 mn) and Jagan Mohan Reddy’s YSRCP (£15 4 mn), but also gave BJP £10 mn and Congress £5 mn T h e s e c o n d b i g g e s t d o n o r , M e g h a Engineering, gave BJP £58 4 mn, followed by BRS (£19 5 mn) and DMK (£8 5 mn) Qwik Supply was the third biggest donor and has been linked to Reliance with one of its directors identifying himself as head of accounts (consolidation) at RIL and another holding directorships in a number of group companies Reliance, however, has stated that Qwik is not a subsidiary The firm gave £37 5 mn of its total donation of £41 mn to BJP, with the rest going to Shiv Sena (£2 5 mn) and NCP (£1 mn)

Allahabad Rural bypoll in 1988

So far, the BJP has released five lists with 398 candidates Mithilesh Tiwari, state general secretary of the party and an ex MLA, has replaced Ashwini Choubey in Buxar while V KSingh has been replaced by MLA

Atul Garg in Ghaziabad in UP Rama

Devi and Chhedi Paswan are the other prominent omissions

BJP names 6 candidates f ro m Gu jarat

The BJP named candidates for six more Lok Sabha constituencies i n G u j a r a t , i n c l u d i n g V a d o d a r a , S a b a r k a n t h a , M e h s a n a , S u r e n d r a n a g a r , J u n a g a d h a n d

Amreli Of the six, five are new faces Only one MP, Rajesh Chudasama, h a s b e e n r e p e a t e d f r o m t h e

Junagadh seat With this, the BJP has now nominated candidates for all 26 seats in Gujarat

The party nominated Hemang

Joshi for the Vadodara seat after sitting MP Ranjan Bhatt withdrew her candidature Joshi is a physiotherapist and an HR professional who was recently elected as the vice-chairman of the municipal s c h o o l b o a r d o f t h e V a d o d a r a Municipal Corporation This is the first major post that he has been a s s i g n e d J o s h i i s a m o n g t h e youngest persons to be fielded by the party on the seat Similarly, the party named Shobhna Baraiya as i t s c a n d i d a t e f r o m S a b a r k a n t h a after Bhikhaji Thakor withdrew his candidature For the Mehsana seat, the party named Haribhai Patel, a member of the Mehsana d i s t r i c t p a n c h a y a t C h a n d u b h a i Shihora has been named candidate from the Surendranagar seat In Amreli, the party fielded Bharat Sutariya, the president of the district panchayat

Gujarati origin among 2 indicted by US court for Dingucha deaths

A d ist ri ct cou rt in Min ne sot a i n t he US

i n di ct e d t wo p e r so n s – G uj a r a t i -o r ig i n

Ha rshk umar Patel al so ide ntified as ‘Dirty Ha rry ’ and Steven Shand – for dea ths of four member s of a Patel fa mil y fr om Dingucha ne ar Gandhinaga r in Jan 2022

Jagdish Patel, 39, his wife Vaishali, 37, daughter Vihangi, 11, and son Dharmik, 3, froze to death while attempting to cross Canada-US border illegally 12 metres from the border due to lack of direction The incident caused an uproar in the Indian community in Canada and US while putting the deadly dreams of Gujaratis under sharp focus According to the court document, the counts (charges) against Patel and Shand include

‘conspiracy to bring aliens to the US causing serious bodily injury and placing lives in jeopardy, aiding and abetting bringing aliens to the US, transportation of aliens in the US causing serious bodily injury and placing lives in jeopardy, and transportation of aliens in the US for purpose of commercial advantage and private financial gain’

C a n a d i a n B r o a d c a s t C o r p o r a t i o n h a d reported that Harry was the person who instructed Shand to bring a group of Indians illegally While Patel is in judicial custody, Shand is out on bail Shand was apprehended by the US authorities on Jan 19, 2022, a day after the incident, with seven illegal Indian immigrants from Gujarat in his van

Jitin Prasada, Kangana Ranaut, Arun Govil & Sita Soren

Ministers face complaints for alleged remarks against PM Modi

C H E N N A I / B E N G A L U R U : A cas e un der se ction 294B of the I PC (utterin g obs ce ne w ord s i n p u b l i c ) h a s b e e n r e g i s t e r e d a ga i n s t T N f i s h e r i e s mi n i s t e r A n i t h a R Ra d ha k r i s h n a n f o r a lleged remark s agai ns t PM Mod i a t a re cen t mee ting of DMK pa rty w orkers But the re wa s n o brak e o n i n t e mp e r a t e re ma r k s , w i t h K a r n a ta k a m i n i s te r Sh i v a ra j T anga dagi s ug gesti ng youths an d s tuden ts chan tin g ‘Modi , Modi’ i n p u b l i c s ho u l d b e “ s l a p p e d ” , le adin g to a complain t b y BJP A c c o r d i n g t o B J P T h o o t h u k u d i s o u t h d i s t r i c t president R Sidhrangathan, the m i n i s t e r m a d e t h e r e m a r k s against the PM at the DMK party w o r k e r s m e e t i n g h e l d a t T h a n d a p a t h u i n T u t i c o r i n district on March 22 “I filed a c o m p l a i n t w i t h t h e d i s t r i c t election officer and collector G L a k s h m i p a t h y d e m a n d i n g appropriate action against him and the police registered an FIR,” he said Radhakrishnan’s uttering

was “disgusting and despicable a n d h e c r i t i c i s e d t h e P r i m e Minister for lauding late chief m i n i s t e r K a m a r a j , ”

Sidhrangathan said S p e a k i n g a t a m e e t i n g o f

C o n g r e s s w o r k e r s i n K a r a t a g y ,

Karnataka, Shivaraj alleged that Modi came to power by “lying”

“ T w o c r o r e j o b s P M M o d i promised Did he give it? They should be ashamed Those youth s u p p o r t e r s o f h i s w h o c h a n t

‘Modi Modi’, can slap them They have run everything based on lies for the past 10 years, ” he said Senior BJP leader and party’s former national general secretary C T Ravi hit out at the Congress o v e r t h e m i n i s t e r ’ s c o m m e n t s

“Realising that Congress is going to lose the upcoming Lok Sabha e l e c t i o n s v e r y b a d l y ,

C o n g r e s s m e n a r e s t o o p i n g t o

new lows And they call PM Modi a dictator!” he posted on X B J P h a s p e t i t i o n e d t h e E l e c t i o n C o m m i s s i o n s e e k i n g strict action against the minister

DMK manifesto promises to undo

CAA, UCC

CH EN NA I: M K Sta lin’s D MK headl in ed its Lok Sab ha man ifesto with a host of big commitment s supposedl y aligne d with t he IND IA bloc’s pol l goals - r eversal of the BJP-l ed cent ral govt’s d ecisions or proposal s to impl ement CAA and UCC, re st or ation of J& K’s st atehood, and repeal of Articl e 356 , a mong others

In the context of Tamil Nadu, DMK’s promise to curtail Raj Bhavan’s powers assumes significance against the backdrop of the Stalin govt’s repeated run-ins with governor R N Ravi The manifesto states that DMK would, as part of INDIA, also junk BJP’s proposal to implement the “ one nation, one election” concept It promises to cut LPG, petrol and diesel prices to Rs 500, Rs 75 and Rs 65 respectively

DMK intends to have TN exempted from NEET, the gateway to MBBS admissions, and push for scrapping the national education policy

“The new (INDIA) govt will undertake actions to appoint g o v e r n o r s i n c o n s u l t a t i o n w i t h C M s , ” t h e m a n i f e s t o s a y s “Section 361 of the Constitution will be removed, ensuring that governors are subject to legal actions ”

On devolution of funds, DMK promises steps to make GST collection an exercise fully managed by state govts The surplus beyond the state’s share will be provided to the Union govt E n s u r i n g t h e a u t o n o m o u s f u n c t i o n i n g o f i n s t i t u t i o n s l i k e Supreme Court, CBI, Election Commission, and UGC is on DMK’s to-do list Stalin said the monthly benefit of Rs 1,000 given to women heading families and TN’s breakfast scheme for schoolchildren would be extended to the rest of the country The manifesto highlights DMK’s social justice plank, saying all Sachar panel recommendations will be implemented A caste census will be conducted across the country

BJP to go solo in all 13 Lok Sabha seats in Punjab

NEW D EL H I: A fter days of parleys with t h e S h i ro m a ni A ka li Da l, th e B J P announced its d ecision to go it alone in the Ju ne 1 P unjab L ok Sabh a elections M aking th e announcem ent, BJ P Punjab p resident Sunil Jakhar said th e BJP had d ecid ed to contest Punjab elections alone " W e t o o k t h i s c a l l a f t e r w i d e c o n s u l t a t i o n s w i t h t h e p e o p l e , p a r t y l e a d e r s a n d w o r k e r s T h e d e c i s i o n i s aimed at a bright future of Punjab s youth, farmers, traders, backward classes The w o r k s d o n e f o r P u n j a b u n d e r p r i m e minister Narendra Modi's leadership are evident In the last ten years every grain of p r o d u c e b y P u n j a b f a r m e r s h a s b e e n procured and fair MSP sent to the bank accounts of farmers within a week," said Jakhar

H e a d d e d t h a t t h e c e n t u r i e s o l d unrealised dream of the Sikhs to visit the Kartarpur shrine across the border was m a d e p o s s i b l e b y t h e o p e n i n g o f t h e K a r t a r p u r c o r r i d o r u n d e r P M M o d i ' s leadership "The decision has been take in the interest of a safe and secure border state of Punjab and I am sure people will support the BJP in the June 1 election," said Jakhar

The alliance talks are learnt to have

WEST BENGAL

failed on a range of issues mainly the Akali Dal's insistence on a larger share of Lok Sabha seats The BJP was seeking five of the 13 segments and preferably six The Akali were comfortable giving four, sources said adding that even the electoral situation signalled that it was better for the BJP to go alone

T h e B J P b e l i e v e s R a m M a n d i r consecration and PM s pro development pitch may generate greater support for the s a f f r o n p a r t y t h i s t i m e T h e A k a l i s , meanwhile, were also learnt to be wary of t h e a l l i a n c e i n t h e w a k e o f f a r m e r s ' agitation Akali Dal was also very keen on t h e r e s o l u t i o n o f B a n d i S i k h P a n t h i c agenda as part of the pre- poll deal

Punjab hooch tragedy toll climbs to 21 as more succumb in hospital

C HA ND IGA R H: Th e death toll d ue to th e suspected consu mption o f sp urious liquor in P un jab ’ s S an g rur d is tri ct ha s ri s en to 2 1 A c co r d i ng t o t h e C h i e f M e d i ca l O ff i ce r (CM O) of Sang rur, at least 40 people were adm i tted to the ho sp ital after co nsu mi ng spurio us liquor that contained eth anol

On March 20, four people died allegedly after consuming spurious liquor and some were hospitalised The next day, four more p e o p l e s u c c u m b e d d u r i n g t r e a t m e n t a t Patiala’s Rajindra Hospital In addition, eight people died on March 22, and five people died on the next day, taking the total death toll to 21 Police said they have arrested two more people With this, a total of six people have been nabbed in connection with the case D u r i n g i n t e r r o g a t i o n , t h e a r r e s t e d accused informed the police that the toxic liquor was being prepared in a house After receiving the information, the police raided the house and recovered 200 litres of ethanol, a kind of toxic chemical

Meanwhile, the Punjab government has c o n s t i t u t e d a " h i g h - l e v e l " S p e c i a l I n v e s t i g a t i o n T e a m ( S I T ) t o p r o b e t h e incident

Being with people not poll interference, says Bengal Governor

o

gain

We st Beng al Gove rnor C V Ana nda Bose , h e e mphasised t hat he will be a vailable to t he p e o p le a n d t h e r e i s n

fe r e n c e f r o m t h e R a j Bhav an in t he election pr oce ss Speaking at a programme in Kolkata, Bose said, “A political party has every right to complain against any person including the Governor I respect that Now the truth ‘Log Sabha’ (a portal f o r r e c e i v i n g c o m p l a i n t s o r s u g g e s t i o n s d i r e c t l y f r o m t h e p e o p l e d u r i n g t h e L o k S a b h a polls) is there for people to log i n T h e g r i e v a n c e s w i l l b e f o r w a r d e d t o t h e E l e c t i o n

Commission of India There is n o i n t e r f e r e n c e f r o m t h e Governor I repeat, there is no i n t e r f e r e n c e f r o m t h e Governor,” he added “During the panchayat polls, B e n g a l h a d s e e n v i o l e n c e Governor was on the streets The f e e d b a c k I g o t w a s t h a t t h e G o v e r n o r ’ s p r e s e n c e m a d e a d i f f e r e n c e N o w a l s o t h e

Governor will be available to the people to hear their grievances, if any Being with the people is not against the election process and is a new definition that I will have to think about now, ” Bose said E a r

complaint with the ECI against B o

akin to that of the Election Commission of India”

in brief

AFTER SC RAP, TN GOVERNOR ADMINISTERS OATH TO DMK’S PONMUDI

A day after Supreme Court's nudge, senior DMK leader K Ponmudy was sworn in as Tamil Nadu Minister by Governor RN Ravi Ponmudy had lost his post as a minister after being convicted in a disproportionate assets case about three years ago He was convicted on 19 December 2023 by the Madras High Court The swearing-in of Ponmudy as Minister in the Tamil Nadu cabinet is believed to be the end of a face-off between the Chief Minister and the Governor The apex court during the hearing expressed serious concern over Governor Ravi s conduct as he refused to re-induct Ponmudi as a minister even after Supreme Court suspended his conviction Observing that Ravi was defying Supreme Court s order, a three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud wondered how can the governor say that Ponmudy's reinduction will be against constitutional morality

BJP FIELDS K SURENDRAN AGAINST RAHUL GANDHI IN WAYANAD

BJP's Kerala unit President K Surendran will be the NDA candidate from Wayanad Lok Sabha seat where he will take on Congress leader and sitting MP Rahul Gandhi and Left Front candidate Annie Raja the wife of CPI national General Secretary D Raja as per the party's fifth list Though Surendran had earlier announced that he would not be contesting the 2024 Lok Sabha elections the BJP s national leadership wanted a strong candidate against Rahul Gandhi even though the BJP does not have much presence there In the 2019 election, Gandhi secured 7,06,367 votes and won by a margin of 4 31 770 votes against CPI s P P Suneer who could only get 2,74,597 votes The BJP has also announced the candidates for three other seats in the state - K S Radhakrishnan (Ernakulam), T M Sarasu (Alathur-SC), and Malayalam actor G Krishnakumar (Kollam)

7 FIRST-TIMERS AMONG 8 NEW HARYANA MINISTERS

Nayab Singh Saini-led Haryana govt carried out its first cabinet expansion, with eight BJP ministers - seven of them first-timers - taking oath at a state-level function Induction of Hisar MLA Kamal Gupta as cabinet minister for the second time Ambala City MLA Aseem Goel

Thanesar (Kurukshetra) MLA Subhash Sudha

Bawani Khera (reserved) MLA Bishambar Balmiki Nangal Chaudhary MLA Rao Abhay Singh Yadav Badkhal MLA Seema Trikha Sohna MLA Sanjay Singh and Panipat (rural) MLA Mahipal Dhanda as ministers of state (MoS) with independent charge took govt’s council of ministers to 14 On March 12, besides Saini, other ministers who took oath included Rania independent MLA Ranjit Singh Chautala, Mool Chand Sharma Jai Parkash Dalal, Banwari Lal and Kanwar Pal Gujjar all BJP MLAs Portfolios will be allocated soon

clashed

BJP FIELDS EX-JUDGE ABHIJIT GANGULY FROM BENGAL

The Bhartiya Janata Party released the fifth list of candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, scheduled to take place from April 19 The party has fielded Justice Abhijit Ganguly from Tamluk while Tapas Roy will contest the elections from the Kolkata Uttar constituency West Bengal is set to witness polling in all seven phases beginning on April 19 for the general elections According to the schedule 102 constituencies will go for polls in the first phase on April 19 followed by 89 constituencies in the second phase on April 26 The third phase will be held on May 7, the fourth on May 13, the fifth on May 20, the sixth on May 25 and the seventh and the last phase on June 1 In the first phase, 102 constituencies will go for polls, 89 in the second phase 94 in the third, 96 in the fourth phase, 49 in the fifth phase, 57 in the sixth phase and 57 in the seventh phase

Sunil Jakhar

C

Grand Holi celebrations at Ram temple in Ayodhya

Ayodhya's grand Ram temple witnessed i t s f i r s t H o l i c e l e b r a t i o n s i n c e i t s inauguration in January this year A large number of devotees gathered early in the morning to partake in the festivities of offering colours and sweets to the Ram Lalla idol adorning the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.

The temple priests engaged in a ceremonial playing of Holi, accompanied by the traditional offerings of abir and gulal as part of the Raag Bhog rituals Additionally, an array of 56 dishes was presented before the idol as prasad

"Ramlalla is celebrating his first Holi after his consecration in the temple His charming idol was decorated with flowers, gulaal has been applied on the forehead On this occasion, the idol of Ram Lalla wore a pink dress," said Acharya Satyendra Das, chief priest of the temple

The temple priests sang Holi songs along with the devotees and danced in front of the idol in celebration The festivities extended beyond the temple's confines Devotees could be seen gathering in huge numbers outside the temple's premises to celebrate Rangotsav as Holi fever gripped the ancient city of Ayodhya

To regulate the massive influx of crowd, adequate security measures were put in place for a smooth darshan for devotees

The Ram temple was thrown open to the public on January 23, a day after the much-celebrated consecration ceremony, presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and attended by a host of politicians and celebrities

The construction of the Ram temple was initiated after a prolonged legal battle that concluded with the Supreme Court ruling in favour of the temple in November 2019

Union home minister Amit Shah, who was in Ahmedabad as part of a Holi celebration programme, said that this year's Holi is ‘special’ for Lord Ram devotees across the world "In a way, Holi is the symbol of the triumph of truth over lies This is a festival of equality too; when everyone gets covered in colours, neither their clothes nor faces are clear; neither the forward nor the backward are seen," he said

"Today, the entire country is celebrating Holi My greetings to all citizens of the country For Lord Ram devotees across the w o r l d , t h i s i s a s p e c i a l H o l i T o d a y Raghuvir is playing Holi in Awadh It is a matter of great joy for us, he added

PM Modi conferred with Bhutan’s highest civilian award

P ri m e M i ni ste r Nare nd ra M o d i rec eiv e d Bhutan’s hig hest civilian award , the ‘Order o f the Druk Gyalp o ’ , d uring h is two -d ay S tate v isit to the neighbouring nation last w eek He is the first foreig n Head of th e Gov ernm ent to receive the h ono ur Bhutan’s king Jigme Khesar Nam gyel Wangch uck presented Mod i with the honour, which w as announced du ring the 114 th National Day celebrations on Decem ber 1 7, 2021

The award has been conferred on PM Modi in recognition of “his outstanding contribution to the growth of India-Bhutan relations and for his distinguished service to the Bhutanese nation and people,” the statement said This is PM Modi’s third visit to Bhutan since he took over as the prime minister in 2014, with the first two visits in 2014 and 2019

India announces doubling of aid to the co untry

During the visit, PM Modi announced India’s decision to double assistance for the Himalayan state’s 13th five-year-plan from £500 million to 1,000 million Amid efforts by Bhutan and China to resolve their border dispute, which could have a bearing on India’s security, India and Bhutan expressed satisfaction with their cooperation on mutual security, agreeing in a joint statement to continue coordination on “issues relating to our national interests”

I n d i a a n d B h u t a n a l s o s i g n e d s e v e n M o U s a n d a g r e e m e n t s , w h i l e i n i t i a t i n g another for rail links between the two countries, as Modi held talks with his counterpart Tshering Tobgay, who received him at Paro airport, and called on King Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck

Modi had committed to stepping up support for Bhutan during Tobgay’s visit to India last week Modi strongly backed the

How Bollywood celebrated festival of colours

Likethe famous Holi celebrations of Great Showman Raj Kapoor, Bollywood celebs leave no stone unturned in extending their wish this auspicious occasion and also provided a glimpse of their celebrations of the festival of colours this year. Several of them shared pictures and videos on social media platforms like Instagram of their Holi celebration with family and friends. Newlyweds couples of Bollywood Kriti KharbandaPulkit Samrat shared some adorable pictures of their Holi celebration.

Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt

Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt were seen playing Holi with their neighbours The famous Bollywood couple was spotted with their daughter, Raha

Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas

P r i y a n k a C h o p r a a n d N i c k J o n a s r e c e n t l y c e l e b r a t e d t h e i r daughter's first Holi in I n d i a P r i y a n k a ' s d e a r f r i e n d T a m a n n a D u t t hosted this lively bash, and Priyanka expressed her gratitude towards her

Kareena Kapoor-Saif Ali Khan

K a r e e n a K a p o o r s p e n t h e r H o l i i n Serengeti with her family and shared pictures with Saif Ali Khan and their sons

Navya Nanda

A m i t a b h B a c h c h a n ' s g r a n d d a u g h t e r shared glimpses of their Holi celebrations with her family She posted pictures with Big B and Jaya Bachchan

Kiara advani – Sidharth Malhotra

Kiara and Sidharth

t i e d t h e k n o t o n

February 07, 2023 This was their their second Holi The duo took to their official Instagram handle to share the pictures of their Holi celebrations

Tiger Shroff, Akshay Kumar and Disha Patani

D i s h a , T i g e r a n d

Akshay were seen playi n g H o l i t o g e t h e r T a k i n g t o I n s t a g r a m , Disha shared a goofy video on social media in which she could be seen playing Holi with Tiger Shroff and Akshay Kumar Disha captioned the video as “Happy Holi "

UP’s madrassa Act 'unconstitutional', rules Allahabad HC

The All ahabad High Court has inval idated the Uttar Pr ade sh Board of M adr ass a E ducat ion Act, 2 004, label ling it "unc ons tit utional " The c ourt's dec is ion was based on the grounds that the ac t violated sec ula r principl es by pr im aril y focusing on promoting and providing Isl amic educ ation

PM receives warm welcome by people at a grand ceremony held at the Tendrelthang, Thimphu, in Bhutan

King’s initiatives like Brand Bhutan and Bhutan Believe, along with the Gelephu Mindfulness City project which, he said, will act as an inspiration for the world, like the “visionary framework” of Gross National Happiness These initiatives are important for Bhutan to achieve its aim of becoming a high-income country by 2034

Additionally, the act permitted the awarding of degrees in violation of the UGC Act J u s t i c e s V i v e k C h a u d h a r y a n d S u b h a s h Vidyarthi upheld petitioner Anshuman Singh R a t h o r e ' s a r g u m e n t t h a t t h e l e g i s l a t i o n exceeded its powers, directly affecting the 15,75,000 students enrolled in 13,329 recognised madrassas in Uttar Pradesh

The division bench instructed the state government, which has been endeavoring to incorporate science and mathematics into madrassa education, to enroll students from all such institutes in regular schools affiliated

with primary, high school, and intermediate education boards

The state govt, for the said purpose, shall ensure that as per requirement, sufficient number of additional seats are created and further, if required, sufficient number of new schools are established The government shall also ensure that children between the ages of 6 to 14 years are not left without admission in duly recognised institutions,” the order states Board chairperson Iftikhar Ahmed Javed said it wasn't easy to accept that an Act governing madrassa education for 20 years had been s u d d e n l y d e c l a r e d u n c o n s t i t u t i o n a l “Obviously, there has been some mistake somewhere Our lawyers could not present their case properly before the court,” he said All India Muslim Personal Law Board member Maulana Khalid Rashid Farangi Mahali suggested the verdict be challenged in the apex court

India to face significant population decline in coming decade, warn experts

India’s total fer tility r ate (TFR) or births per woman will re duce t o 1 29 in 205 0, a new study pub lishe d in The Lancet has war ned In 1950, India had a TFR of 6 18 which re duced t o 4 60 in 1980 a nd in 2021, the TFR re duced further to 1 91 which is b elow the repla cement l evel or t he a vera ge numb er of childr en per woma n n eeded to ma int ain a stab le popula tion size

I f t h e L a n c e t ’ s f o r e c a s t h o l d s t r u e , experts say, India may well face a significant population decline in the coming decades leading to challenges such as an ageing population, labour force shortages, and potential social imbalances due to gender preferences According to Poonam Mutreja, executive director of Population Foundation of India

(PFI), as countries develop economically, the cost of raising children increases, leading families to have fewer children Increased education and em- powerment of women r e s u l t i n g r e a t e r c a r e e r a s p i r a t i o n s a n d delayed marriages and childbirth, further contributing to a decline in the TFR Other reasons for this trend include urbanisation, im- proved access to family planning and contraception, and a shift in social norms and values towards smaller family sizes,” she said The PFI director added that while these challenges are still a few decades away for India, we need to start acting now with a comprehensive approach for the future “The most urgent need of the hour is to promote

gender equality Govts and societies would have to significantly reduce the costs of motherhood for women, ” Mutreja said

But India is not the only country facing a sharp decline in population on account of low TFR According to the Lancet study, which used novel methods for forecasting mortality, fertility, key drivers of fertility (e g , level of education, unmet need for modern contraception, child mortality, and living in urban areas), and live births to estimate global fertility trends, 155 of 204 (76%) countries and territories will be below the replacement level of fertility by 2050 The number of countries and territories below replacement level is predicted to further increase to 198 of 204 (97%) by 2100, the study says

Tin Europe have been unveiled by

Home. Across popular European d e

Spain, and Portugal, data f r o m Y o u r O v e r s e a s H o m e ' s i n t e r n a l website reveals the most coveted regions and resorts over the past four months

Europe:

C yprus – Paphos: Paphos, renowned for its historical sites and natural beauty, is a magnet for homebuyers and relocators alike With its captivating ancient ruins, p i c t u r e s q u e l a n d s c a p e s , a n d d i v e r s e p r o p e r t y o p t i o n s , i n c l u d i n g v i l l a s , apartments, and coastal retreats, Paphos offers something for every preference and budget Retirees also find appeal in its relaxed lifestyle and excellent healthcare facilities, making it an ideal destination for t h o s e s e e k i n g a s e r e n e y e t v i b r a n t community

Fr ance - Nouve lle-Aquit aine : NouvelleAquitaine, France's largest region, features iconic destinations like Bordeaux and La R o c h e l l e , r e n o w n e d f o r t h e i r c u l t u r a l r i c h n e s s a n d c u l i n a r y d e l i g h t s W i t h a v a r i e t y o f p r o p e r t y t y p e s a v a i l a b l e , i n c l u d i n g h i s t o r i c h o m e s , c o t t a g e s , apartments, and villas, prospective buyers can find their perfect retreat in this vibrant region known for its diverse landscapes and heritage

G ree ce – C re te: C r e t e , G r e e c e ' s l a r g e s t i s l a n d , i s a s o u g h t - a f t e r d e s t i n a t i o n f o r r e l o c a t i o n d u e t o i t s welcoming atmosphere, vibrant expat c o m m u n i t i e s , a n d a f f o r d a b l e l i v i n g costs With its rich cultural heritage, showcased through charming villages and flavourful cuisine, Crete offers an appealing lifestyle for individuals and families alike Property seekers in Crete have a variety of options to explore, from traditional homes to modern apartments and luxury villas Prices vary depending on location and proximity to the coast,

Top European regions for holiday homes revealed

ensuring there’s something to fit every budget and preference Italy – Tuscany: Tuscany, situated in central Italy, is celebrated for its enduring allure and gastronomic pleasures Defined by its rolling hills, scenic vineyards, and iconic cypress-lined roads, the region's p i c t u r e s q u e c o u n t r y s i d e e m b o d i e s t h e q u i n t e s s e n c e o f T u s c a n y ' s c h a r m , attracting numerous individuals longing to reside here Potential buyers in Tuscany c a n c h o o s e f r o m a r a n g e o f e x q u i s i t e p r o p e r t i e s , i n c l u d i n g c h a r m i n g v i l l a s , rustic farmhouses, historic townhouses, and modern apartments Prices vary based o n f a c t o r s s u c h a s l o c a t i o n , s i z e , a n d c o n d i t i o n , w i t h s o u g h t - a f t e r a r e a s l i k e F l o r e n c e a n d t h e C h i a n t i r e g i o n commanding premium prices

Portugal – F aro: Faro, the capital of Portugal s Algarve region, blends history and culture, making it a favourite among t o u r i s t s a n d p o t e n t i a l e x p a t r i a t e s

Italy – Tuscany

Renowned for its seafood delicacies, Faro boasts an array of fresh fish and seafood dishes, thanks to its coastal location and b u s t l i n g m a r k e t s N e s t l e d w i t h i n t h e picturesque Ria Formosa Natural Park, the c i t y o f f e r s a s c e n i c b a c k d r o p f o r o u t d o o r e n t h u s i a s t s F a r o ' s r e a l e s t a t e market is thriving, driven by both local and international interest Coastal areas like Albufeira and Vilamoura are particularly in demand, offering a variety of properties, including apartments, townhouses, and s e a - v i e w v i l l a s T h e G o l d e n V i s a P r o g r a m m e h a s a t t r a c t e d f o r e i g n investors, contributing to the market's b u o y a n c y A d d i t i o n a l l y , t h e r e g i o n ' s popularity as a tourist destination creates lucrative rental opportunities for property owners

S pain – Andalusia: Andalusia, situated in southern Spain, is a diverse region renowned for its blend of ancient cities like Seville, Granada, and Cordoba Each city boasts impressive architecture and iconic landmarks such as the Alhambra and the Great Mosque Along the coast, t h e C o s t a d e l S o l o f f e r s s t u n n i n g b e a c h e s a n d v i b r a n t r e s o r t s , w h i l e inland, Andalusia is characterised by majestic mountain ranges like the Sierra N e v a d a a n d c h a r m i n g w h i t e - w a s h e d v i l l a g e s s u c h a s R o n d a F r o m i t s r e n o w n e d c i t i e s t o i t s p i c t u r e s q u e beaches and villages, Andalusia offers something for every visitor to enjoy

Fasting, Feasting by Anita Desai

A n i t a D e s a i ' s " F a s t i n g , F e a s t i n g " i s a c o m p e l l i n g narrative that delves into the i n t r i c a t e d y n a m i c s o f f a m i l y , tradition, and the clash between Eastern and Western cultures T h r o u g h v i v i d p r o s e a n d p o i g n a n t s t o r y t e l l i n g , D e s a i p a i n t s a v i v i d p o r t r a i t o f characters grappling with the c o n s t r a i n t s o f s o c i e t a l expectations and the quest for personal freedom

Set in both India and the United States, the novel follows

the lives of two siblings, Uma a n d A r u n , w h o n a v i g a t e t h e complexities of their respective environments Uma, the eldest daughter, finds herself bound by the traditional expectations of her Indian family, relegated t o a l i f e o f s e r v i t u d e a n d sacrifice In contrast, Arun, the f a v o u r e d s o n , e s c a p e s t o A m e r i c a t o p u r s u e h i s e d u c a t i o n , s e e k i n g l i b e r a t i o n from the stifling confines of his Indian upbringing

Desai masterfully contrasts the oppressive atmosphere of Uma's household in India with t h e s e e m i n g l y l i b e r a t i n g b u t ultimately isolating experience o f A r u n ' s l i f e i n A m e r i c a T h r o u g h U m a ' s n a r r a t i v e , Desai exposes the suffocating p a t r i a r c h y a n d g e n d e r r o l e s entrenched in Indian society, where women are expected to sacrifice their desires for the s a k e o f f a m i l i a l d u t y U m a ' s e x i s t e n c e r e v o l v e s a r o u n d d o m e s t i c s e r v i t u d e , h e r a s p i r a t i o n s s t i f l e d b y h e r

parents' relentless pursuit of a suitable marriage for her

C o n v e r s e l y , A r u n ' s s t o r y unfolds against the backdrop of A m e r i c a n c o n s u m e r i s m a n d m a t e r i a l i s m , w h e r e p e r s o n a l autonomy often comes at the expense of human connection and emotional fulfilment Arun finds himself ensnared in the trappings of Western society, a l i e n a t e d f r o m h i s I n d i a n heritage and struggling to forge g e n u i n

, f r u s t r a t i o n s , a n d unfulfilled yearnings In India, f o o d i s s y n o n y m o u s w i t h t r a d i t i o n a n d r i t u a l , s y m b o l i s i n g t h e e x p e c t a t i o n s a n d o b l i g a t i o n s t h a t g o v e r n Uma's life In America, food becomes a means of indulgence a n d e x c e s s , r e f l e c t i n g A r u n ' s attempt to fill the void left by his emotional detachment and cultural dislocation A t i t s c o r e , " F a s t i n g , F e a s t i n g " i s a p o i g n a n t e x p l o r a t i o n o f t h e h u m a n c o n d i t i o n , h i g h l i g h t i n g t h e u n i v e r s a l t h e m e s o f l o n g i n g , belonging, and the quest for autonomy Desai's characters a r e i n t r i c a t e l y d r a w n , t h e i r s t r u g g l e s a n d t r i u m p h s r e s o n a t i n g w i t h r e a d e r s r e g a r d l e s s o f c u l t u r a l background While the novel o f f e r s a s e a r i n g c r i t i q u e o f g e n d e r r o l e s a n d c u l t u r a l expectations, it also celebrates the resilience and agency of its c h a r a c t e r s i n t h e f a c e o f a d v e r s i t y U m a a n d A r u n ' s journeys serve as a testament to the enduring human spirit, as they navigate the complexities of identity and forge their paths towards self-realisation

Cyprus – Paphos

Navigating life transitions

Psychologist Mamta Saha

Dear Readers,

Life is a journey filled with twists and turns, marked by moments of joy, sorrow, and everything in between Amidst the flow of life, there are inevitable transitions – significant changes that shape our paths and redefine our realities

Whether it's starting a new job, moving to a new city, ending a relationship, or experiencing the loss of a loved one, navigating life transitions can be both exhilarating and overwhelming In times of change, it's essential to equip ourselves with strategies to adapt gracefully and maintain emotional balance

In the Asian community, where there s often a strong emphasis on stability and tradition, navigating life transitions can pose unique challenges For many individuals, transitions are not just personal milestones but also reflections of family expectations and cultural norms The pressure to meet societal standards of success and fulfil familial obligations can amplify the stress of transition, making it difficult to embrace change with resilience

However, amidst the cultural expectations and external pressures, there are strategies that can help us navigate life transitions with grace and emotional balance:

Cultivate Self-Refl ection:

Life transitions often prompt a whirlwind of emotions and thoughts Cultivating self-reflection provides a space for i n t r o s p e c t i o n a n d c l a r i t y a m i d s t t h e c h a o s o f c h a n g e Consider setting aside dedicated time each day for selfreflection, whether it's through journaling, meditation, or simply sitting quietly with your thoughts Journaling can be particularly powerful during transitions, as it allows you to articulate your feelings, identify patterns, and gain insight into your thoughts and emotions

Se ek Support :

Transition periods can feel overwhelming, but you don t have to navigate them alone Seeking support from friends, family members, or a professional therapist can provide comfort, guidance, and perspective during times of change Reach out to trusted individuals in your support system and share your thoughts, feelings, and concerns openly and honestly Additionally, consider seeking support from a professional therapist who can offer specialized guidance and support tailored to your specific needs Therapy can provide a safe and confidential space to explore your emotions, gain insight into your thought patterns, and develop coping s t r a t e g i e s t o n a v i g a t e t h r o u g h l i f e ' s t r a n s i t i o n s w i t h resilience and grace

Focus on Self-Care:

During times of transition, it's essential to prioritize selfcare activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul Selfcare looks different for everyone, so identify activities that bring you joy, relaxation, and rejuvenation Whether it's going for a walk in nature, practicing yoga, indulging in a creative hobby, or simply taking a long bath, carve out time in your schedule for activities that replenish your energy and soothe your spirit

T h e s e s t r a t e g i e s , w h e n p r a c t i c e d c o n s i s t e n t l y , c a n empower you to navigate through life's transitions with grace, resilience, and emotional balance Remember, you have the strength and resilience within you to navigate through change, and by prioritising self-reflection, seeking support, and focusing on self-care, you can embrace life's transitions with courage and grace

Should you have any questions feel free to reach out: mamta@mamtasaha com Don’t forget to download your free EBook on: www mamtasaha com Until next week, take care and be happy Mamta

Embracing healthier cleaning alternatives

In our households, traditional cleaning products often harbour harmful chemical ingredients that pose risks to our health, as well as the wellbeing of our children and pets

Making the switch to safer alternatives presents a straightforward yet impactful solution to minimise exposure to environmental toxins within your living space

Add these vitamin B12-rich foods to your diet to manage stress

Fe el in g o v e rw h e lm e d ?

You're not alone Stress is a co nstant com panion in our fas t-p ac ed w o rl d Bu t d i d you know th at what you eat can play a role in managing stress lev els? Vitam in B1 2, an essential nutrient, can be a powerful ally in your stressfig hting arsenal Here's how in co r p o rat in g B 1 2 -r ic h foo ds into yo ur diet can help you stay calm and co llected B 1 2 s u p p o r t s t h e p r oduction of red blood cells, w h i c h c a r r y o x y g e n t h r o u g h o u t y o u r b o d y W h e n B 1 2 l e v e l s a r e l o w , o x y g e n d e l i v e r y i s h a mpered, leading to fatigue and s l u g g i s h n e s s – n o t i d e a l states for coping with stress B12 also plays a crucial role i n t h e n e r v o u s s y s t e m ' s functioning It helps regu-

late neurotransmitters, the brain chemicals responsible for mood and sleep When B12 is deficient, these chemi c a l s c a n b e c o m e i m b a lanced, leading to anxiety, i r r i t a b i l i t y , a n d d i f f i c u l t y sleeping – all of which exacerbate stress

Forti fied cereals : A convenient and delicious way t o s t a r t y o u r d a y M a n y

breakfast cereals are fortified with B12, often providing a significant portion of your daily needs Check the label to find varieties with at least 25% of the Daily Value (DV) of B12 per serving N utritional yeast: These deactivated yeast flakes are a nutritional powerhouse, b o a s t i n g a n u t t y , c h e e s y

flavour Sprinkle them on p o p c o r n , p a s t a d i s h e s , o r salads for a B12 boost A single serving (around 2 tables p o o n s ) c a n p r o v i d e o v e r 1 0 0 % o f y o u r d a i l y B 1 2 needs

Tempeh: This fermented soybean cake is a staple i n m a n y v e g e t a r i a n a n d vegan kitchens While the amount of B12 in tempeh can vary, it can contribute a small amount (around 3%) to your daily needs Pair it with other B12 sources for a complete meal

Plant-based milk: Many p l a n t - b a s e d m i l k a l t e r n atives, such as fortified soy milk, almond milk, and oat milk, are fortified with B12 Check the label to ensure y o u ' r e c h o o s i n g a b r a n d with added B12

Ayurvedic therapies for optimum eye health

Eyestrain, d ryness, and ag erelated v ision co ncerns are co m m o n p ro b lem s i n to d ay 's d ig it al w o rl d A yurv ed a o ffers a h o li sti c app roach to eye health that p ro m o te s p rev ent i o n a nd rejuvenatio n

Ayurveda emphasises a balance between the three d o s h a s : V a t a , P i t t a , a n d Kapha Imbalances in these energies can manifest as eye problems You can nurture y o u r v i s i o n n a t u r a l l y b y i n c o r p o r a t i n g d i e t a r y a n d lifestyle practices and specific Ayurvedic therapies

Dietary wisd om for eye health

Ayurveda recommends a diet rich in antioxidants and v i t a m i n s e s s e n t i a l f o r e y e health Leafy greens, carrots,

and Amla (Indian gooseberry) are all recommended for their Vitamin A and C content Nuts, seeds, and ghee p r o v i d e V i t a m i n E , w h i l e essential fatty acids found in fish can nourish the eyes

Triphala, a herbal formulation of three fruits, is popular for its detoxifying and vision-strengthening properties

Soo thing eye rou tines

Ayurveda offers external

Ginger remedies to combat bloating

Bloat ing – that uncomfort abl e feel in g of abdomin al distention – can st rike at an y time, lea vin g you feeling sel f-conscious and sl uggish While t he re are var ious cause s for bl oa ting, ginger, a common k it chen stapl e, might be t he her o you need

G i n g e r b o a s t s a l o n g h i s t o r y o f u s e i n t

medicine for digestive ailments Modern science is now catching up, revealing its potential to combat bloating Here's how this wonder root can bring relief:

A iding d igestion: Ginger acts as a carminative, helping expel gas from the digestive tract It stimulates the movement of food through your gut, preventing it from sitting and causing bloating

A nti-inflam matory p owerho use: Bloating can sometimes be caused by inflammation in the digestive system Ginger s anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe the gut lining and redu ce discom fo rt

C ombating nausea: Often, bloating is accompanied by nausea Ginger's effectiveness in calming nausea is well-documented By reducing nausea, ginger can make the bloating sensation more manageable

So, how can you harness ginger's power for bloat relief? Here are some easy ways to incorporate it into your routine:

Ging er tea: This classic remedy is simple and effective Steep sliced or grated ginger in hot water for 10-15 minutes Add honey or lemon for flavor Sip this tea throughout the day, especially after meals that tend to cause bloating

Ging er chews: For a convenient option, grab some ginger chews Look for varieties with real ginger and minimal added sugar Chewing on ginger can stimulate saliva production, which aids digestion and potentially reduces bloating C ulinary creativ ity: Incorporate ginger into your meals Grate or mince fresh ginger and add it to stir-fries, soups, curries, or marinades A subtle ginger kick can enhance flavor while offering digestive benefits

t h e r a p i e s t h a t cleanse and nourish the delicate eye area

Netra Basti, a gentle medicated ghee bath f o r t h e e y e s , c a n s o o t h e d r y n e s s a n d i r r i t a t i o n

Alternatively, applying cool rose water or T r i p h a l a e y e w a s h c a n b e refreshing A gentle massage with castor oil around the eyelids can promote relaxation for tired eyes

Apply Anjana (collyrium) and use Nasya (infiltration of medicines via nostrils) on a regular basis to protect the e y e s a n d r e m o v e e x c e s s

Kapha

Exercises for focused v ision

Simple eye exercises can i m p r o v e b l o o d c i r c u l a t i o n

and strengthen the eye muscles Palming involves cupping your hands gently over your eyes to block out light a n d p r o m o t e r e l a x a t i o n B l i n k i n g e x e r c i s e s a n d rolling the eyes in different d i r e c t i o n s c a n a l s o h e l p reduce strain and improve focus Trataka, an ayurvedic eye exercise, helps improve v i s i o n a n d e y e s t r e n g t h Take ten minutes of your day to sit in a dark room, position the ghee lamp so the flame is visible at a 30d e g r e e a n g l e , a n d g a z e s t e a d i l y a t i t V a r i o u s Kriyakalpa treatments, such as Tarpana, Putapaka, Seka, A n j a n a , A s c h y o t a n a , P i n d i and Bidalaka, are effective in treating and preserving eye health

Passive smoking exposure nearly doubles stroke risk

In a ne w study publi she d in the journa l eClin icalMed icine, re se arche rs ha ve ex plored in de ta i l h ow v a ri e d sm o k i n g hab i ts in flue n ce the ris k of getti ng a stroke

It found that current smokers are at a higher risk of getting a stroke compared to those who never smoked, with the association being s t r o n g e r f o r i s c h a e m i c s t r o k e , t h e m o s t c o m m o n kind and caused when blood fails to reach the brain The international study included researchers from St John's M e d i c a l C o l l e g e a n d R e s e a r c h I n s t i t u t e , Bangalore Both filtered and nonf i l t e r e d c i g a r e t t e s w e r e linked with increased stroke r i s k a n d p a s s i v e s m o k i n g

Exposure to environmental t o b a c c o s m o k e ( E T S ) f o r more than ten hours a week was found to nearly double t h e s t r o k e r i s k , e s p e c i a l l y that of ischaemic and intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) The team also found that i n y o u n g h e a v y s m o k e r s (more than 20 cigarettes a day) under 50 years of age,

stroke risk more than doubled, which was higher compared to increasing 1 5-fold in participants aged 70 and above Among those aged 5059, they observed an 8-fold risk increase of large vessel stroke involving large vessels supplying blood to the brain

The data of participants from 32 high-, middle and l o w - i n c o m e c o u n t r i e s , including those from Africa, S o u t h A s i a ( I n d i a a n d P a k i s t a n ) , a n d S o u t h A m e r i c a , w e r e a n a l y s e d T h e y w e r e r e c r u i t e d f r o m January 2008 to August 2015 T h e r e s e a r c h e r s a l s o f o u n d t h a t a c r o s s i n c o m e l e v e l s , s t r o k e r i s k f r o m smoking was higher in highi n c o m e c o u n t r i e s ( H I C s ) t h a n l o w - a n d m i d d l eincome countries (LMICs), w i t h y o u n g e r s m o k e r s a t higher risk than older ones

The risk of stroke rose with t h e n u m b e r o f c i g a r e t t e s smoked per day, especially in HICs, they said The study findings are relevant to global efforts directed at reducing tobacco use and exposure, the researchers said

Hrithik lauds Ananya Panday’s performance in ‘Kho Gaye Hum Kahan’

Actor Hrithik Roshan recently saw Arjun Varain Singh’s directorial debut and buddy digital-coming-of-age movie ‘Kho Gaye Hum Kahan’ which was released on Netflix India in December last year. Roshan took to his X hand over the weekend and wrote, “Saw Kho gaye hum kahaan a few days back. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Not an easy genre. @ananyapandayy you are a star. What a performance (applause emoji) @SiddyChats and @gauravadarsh you guys were great So well directed @ArjunVarain Congrats to the entire team It’s a must watch!”

Ananya responded to him on X by writing, “@iHrithik sir you just made my day! Thank you so much for your lovely words and appreciation It's very motivating (loved emoji) ”

The movie is about three friends in their mid-20s navigating life in the world of social media It stars Siddhant C h a t u r v e d i , A d a r s h G o u r a v a n d Ananda Panday in the lead roles Set in M u m b a i , i t i s p r o d u c e d b y E x c e l Entertainment’s Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar in collaboration with Tiger Baby’s Reema Kagti and Zoya A k h t a r T h e m o v i e h a s g a r n e r e d positive reviews

On the work front, Hrithik has ‘War 2 ’ in the pipeline Meanwhile, Ananya will be next seen in the Prime Video India original show ‘Call My B a e , ’ a n d V i k r a m a d i t y a M o t w a n e ’ s cyber-thriller ‘Control ’

Shraddha Kapoor takes a firm stand for animal cruelty during Holi

Shraddha Kapoor has spoken out against any form of animal cruelty during the festival of Holi The actor took to her Instagram Stories a day before Holi to spread awareness about such practices and urge fans to take appropriate action against people resorting to animal cruelty

On Sunday, she shared a video showing many unidentified people throwing colours at pet dogs The video showed how pet animals, in particular, are abused during Holi The colours have toxic chemicals that cause skin allergies, rashes, and even blindness in animals If they lick the colours, it can also cause intestinal erosion and diarrhea

In the caption, Shradhha wrote, “If you see someone behaving like t h i s ( a n

a s e ( f o l d e d h a n d s emoticons) ” This isn’t the first time the actress has advocated for animal care and often shares posts and stories from time to time

On the work front, Shraddha was last seen opposite Ranbir Kapoor in the film ‘Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar ’ She will be seen next in ‘Stree 2, ’ the second instalment in the hit horror-comedy franchise The film will mark the return of the original cast including Shraddha, Rajkummar Rao, Pankaj Tripathi, Aparshakti Khurrana and Abhishek Banerjee once again The film is scheduled for release in August 2024

Shah Rukh, Kajol, Shilpa’s ‘Baazigar’ set to re-release in theatres

The 1993 cult classic film ‘Baazigar’ featuring Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol and Shilpa Shetty is all set to re-release in cinemas The romantic thriller was directed by Abbas-Mustan “ F l a s h b a c k t o a t i m e w h e n m a g i c unfolded on the silver screen! Inviting you to relive those moments at our Retro Film Festival with the iconic Bollywood classic - Baazigar As someone who had the privilege to bring this magic to life, I'm thrilled to join you in this nostalgic journey Let's celebrate the timeless era of Bollywood togethe r , ” S h a h R u k h a n n o u n c e d i n h i s Instagram post His fans rushed to the comment section, expressing their excitement One of them wrote, “FAVOURITE CHILDHOOD MOVIE ” Another mentioned, “All time fvrt srk ” Kajol and Shilpa too p o s t e d t h e a n n o u n c e m e n t S h i l p a wrote, “So proud to be a part of both t h e s e ' I c o n i c R e t r o ' f i l m s , w i t h

Baazigar being my debut Save the dates: 22/03/24 | 23/03/24 | 25/03/24 | 26/03/24 Join us for an unforgettable cinematic experience Be there to witness the magic unfold! ”

R e l e a s e d o n N o v e m b e r 1 2 , 1 9 9 3 , ‘Baazigar’ featured Shah Rukh as an a n t i h e r o T h e t h r i l l e r , a l s o o n e o f Kajol's earliest successes, became a blockbuster

Vijay Varma opens up about his relationship with Tamannaah

Actor Vijay Varma recently opened up about his relationship with fellow actor Tamannaah Bhatia In a conversation with Tanmay Bhat on Netflix India’s YouTube channel, Varma reveals they started dating after shooting ‘Lust Stories 2 ’ They both featured in a segment in that anthology film

During the conversation, Vijay clarified how their relationship began and said, “Lust Stories was a cupid but it wasn’t during the shoot that we started dating T h e r e w a s d i s c u s s i o n o f a w r a p p a r t y happening but it never happened So, we wanted to have a wrap party and so only four people showed up That day I feel like I told her that I want to hang out more

with you Then it took me 20-25 days for the first date to happen after that ” Vijay and Tamannaah sparked dating rumours after they were first spotted at a N e w Y e a r ’ s p a r t y A f t e r m o n t h s o f speculation, Tamannaah confirmed her relationship in an interview in June last year

On the work front, Vijay was also seen in ‘Murder Mubarak ’ He has two coming s h o w s t h i s y e a r , i n c l u d i n g N a g r a j M a n j u l e ’ s ‘ M a t k a K i n g ’ a n d t h e t h i r d s e a s o n o f ‘ M i r z a p u r ’ M e a n w h i l e , Tamannaah will be seen in Ashok Teja’s ‘ S h i v a S h a k h t i ’ S h e r e c e n t l y t o o k t o Instagram and X to share her striking firstlook as the titular character

Janhvi climbs Tirupati steps on her knees

Anurag Kashyap to charge money to meet new people going forward

Filmmaker

Anurag

Kashyap took to Instagram lately to rant about “random people who think they’re creative geniuses ” He posted a note announcing that from now on, he will charge money for meeting new people. He wrote, “I wasted a lot of time trying to help newcomers and mostly ended up with mediocre s**t. So now onwards I don’t want to waste my time with meeting random people who think they’re creative geniuses So I will now have rates ”

Actress Janhvi Kapoor celebrated her birthday earlier this month by offering prayers to Lord Balaji at Tirupati She was joined by rumoured boyfriend Shikhar Pahariya, Orry, and a few other loved ones Orry shared a detailed vlog of their experience on his YouTube channel This is not the first time the actress has been spotted visiting the temple She is often seen along with her father, Boney Kapoor, and sister, Khushi In the vlog, Orry details how they rested at Janhvi’s Chennai home before driving to Tirupati and stopping at a friend’s home for lunch

On their way to the temple, Janhvi later talks to Orry in the car She says, “You know how they say it’s not the destination, it’s the journey It’s all about the climb, life is all about the climb Everyone must experience climbing to Tirupati because I think it humbles you ” Shikhar states, “One thing I’ve learnt is that if you look up, you get scared So don’t, just look down and do it one step at a time ” In the video, the actress is also seen climbing the last leg of the stairs on her knees

On the work front, Janhvi and Boney were recently seen in Hyderabad for the launch of her next Telugu film Directed by Buchi Babu Sana, the yet-to-be-titled project features Ram Charan in the male lead Meanwhile, Janhvi is all set to debut in Telugu with Koratala Siva’s Jr NTRstarrer 'Devara ' She also has Bollywood movies ‘Mr & Mrs Mahi’ and ‘Uljah’ in the pipeline

Akshay Kumar named entertainer of decade at Pinkvilla awards

ThePinkvilla Screen & Style Icons Awards 2024 unfolded in all its glamour at the Taj Lands End in Mumbai

This prestigious event celebrated the crème de la crème of the entertainment industry, recognizing their remarkable talent and impeccable fashion sense Among the stars who graced the occasion were Akshay Kumar, Kiara Advani, Karan Johar, Varun Dhawan, and more.

Priyanka, Jonas visit Ram Mandir with daughter Malti

Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas are in Ayodhya for Ram Lalla's 'darshan' They were accompanied by their daughter, Malti Marie The trio were escorted to their car at the Ayodhya airport surrounded by an entourage of security

Saba Pataudi defends Sara’s performance in ‘Ae Watan Mere Watan’ Sara

Usha

Since the movie was released on Prime Video India, netizens seem to have unflattering opinions about it and Sara’s performance Sara’s aunt, Saba Pataudi, recently jumped to her defence against an online troll

The filmmaker added, "If someone wants to meet me for 10-15 minutes I will charge 1 lac, for half hour 2 lacs and for 1 hour 5 lacs That's the rate I am tired of wasting time meeting people If you really think you can afford it, call me or stay the f**k away And all paid in advance (folded hands emoji) ”

He captioned the post, “And I mean it Don’t text or dm or call me Pay, and you will get time I am not a charity, and I am tired of people looking for shortcuts ” Reacting to the post, his daughter Aaliyah K a s h y a p w r o t e , " F o r w a r d i n g t h i s t o everyone in my dms and email who keep sending me scripts to forward to you (face with tears of joy emoji) ”

A c t r e s s K u b b r a S a i t w r o t e , “ A m e n ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ” W h i l e , a c t r e s s S h a h a n a G o s w a m i c o m m e n t e d , “ B u t B a b u wouldn't people who can pay for your time more likely waste your time as much, if not more ? I agree with the first part but t h e n m a y b e d o n ' t m e e t a n y o n e l e t d e s t i n y m a k e , y o u m e e t y o u r collaborators accidentally?”

K a s h y a p r e c e n t l y a n n o u n c e d h i s M a l a y a l a m f i l m d e b u t a s a n a c t o r i n director Aashiq Abu’s upcoming movie 'Rifle Club ’ He shared the update on his Instagram His directorial ‘Kennedy’ is also in the pipeline for release

A k s h a y K u m a r , t h e v e r s a t i l e a c t o r known for his impactful performances and charismatic screen presence, emerged as the Entertainer of the Decade His contribution to Indian cinema over the past ten years has been nothing short of p h e n o m e n a l F r o m a c t i o n - p a c k e d blockbusters to socially relevant films, A k s h a y K u m a r h a s c o n s i s t e n t l y e n t e r t a i n e d a n d i n s p i r e d a u d i e n c e s worldwide

Akshay Kumar has a stellar line-up of diverse and promising films including ' B a d e M i y a n C h o t e M i y a n ' , ' S i n g h a m A g a i n ' , ' S k y F o r c e , ' ' W e l c o m e 3 ' , t h e threequel to 'Hera Pheri', 'Housefull 5' and more

Priyanka looked radiant in a yellow

was

L a s t w e e k , f i l m m a k e r K a r a n J o h a r announced that the film was streaming, w r i t i n g o n h i s I n s t a g r a m , “ I m m e r s e yourself in the inspiring tale of an unsung hero of our nation ” Some movie buffs were skeptical about how the film will fare, with one fan writing, “The theme looks interesting but I’m damn sure Sara A l i K h a n i s g o i n g t o r u i n b y h e r overacting, just wait for it ” S a b a , w h o t o o k n o t i c e o f t h e c o m m e n t , r e p l i e d , “ D O N T j u d g e something until you ’ ve seen it FIRST S h e ’ s a c t u a l l y b r i l l i a n t ! M a h s h a ’ A l l a h (sic)” In a separate comment, she was all praise for the film and her niece, writing, “She’s fabulous Everyone simply nails their part n superb direction A MUST watch! A true story too (sic)”

In ‘Ae Watan Mere Watan,’ Sara plays Usha Mehta, a young woman who starts an underground radio station to spread m e s s a g e s d u r i n g t h e Q u i t I n d i a m o v e m e n t T h e f i l m r e c e i v e d m i x e d reviews from critics and audiences alike, w i t h m a n y p r a i s i n g E m r a a n f o r h i s performance, but criticising Sara for not fitting into the role

In a statement about her role, Sara s a i d , “ P o r t r a y i n g s u c h a p o w e r f u l character in Ae Watan Mere Watan has b e e n a n h o n o u r b e y o n d w o r d s T o embody the spirit of my character and d i v i n g i n t o h e r c o n s c i o u s n e s s , a n d u n d e r s t a n d i n g w h a t m o t i v a t e s a n d i n s p i r e s h e r h a s b e e n h u m b l i n g a n d empowering The film is a reminder of the s a c r i f i c e s m a d e b y c o u n t l e s s u n s u n g heroes and a testament to the fortitude of the human spirit ”

‘Toxic’ producers respond to rumours of Kareena, Sai Pallavijoining the

cast

Social media has recently been abuzz with reports of actresses Kareena Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, and Shruti Haasan joining Yash in his film 'Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grownups.' The filmmakers recently addressed the rumours, requesting everyone refrain from speculation.

“There are many unsubstantiated theories and information doing rounds about the casting of Toxic: A Fairy Tale for G r o w n - u p s W e t r u l y a p p r e c i a t e t h e e x c i t e m e n t a r o u n d T o x i c , b u t a t t h i s p o i n t , w e w o u l d r e q u e s t e v e r y o n e t o refrain from speculation The casting process for the film is near completion, and we are thrilled with the team we have onboard As we gear up to bring this story to life, we request everyone to wait for the official announcements,” the makers said in a statement T h e m o v i e i s d i r e c t e d b y G e e t h u M o h a n d a s a n d c o - p r o d u c e d b y K V N P r o d u c t i o n s a n d M o n s t e r M i n d Creations It is slated for theatrical release on April 10, 2025 In December last year, Yash announced the movie title with an Instagram video and wrote, “What you seek is seeking you Rmi A Fairy Tale for Grownups #TOXIC ” The video gave a glimpse of the actor's looks in the film, wearing a hat and a cigar in his mouth

The movie is touted to be an actionoriented film set against the backdrop of the drug mafia

Trisha took to her Instagram recently to share a glimpse of her time with her ‘Vishwambhara’ co-star Chiranjeevi and Oscarwinning music composer MM Keeravaani Without revealing much, the actress shared pictures where she can be seen posing with the two legends

The picture appears to have been taken at a studio, with the actor hinting that she and Chiranjeevi are sitting in on the music sessions for her Telugu comeback She wrote, “A divine and legendary morning indeed! #vishwambhara ” The film marks her comeback to Telugu cinema after almost a decade

‘Vishwambhara’ is a socio-fantasy film written and directed by Mallidi Vassishta It is slated to release on January 10 next year, days ahead of Sankranti The film is produced by UV C

Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao and Santhosh Kamireddy are part of the crew

On the work front, Trisha will soon be seen in the Tamil films ‘Vidaa Muyarchi,’ ‘Thug Life,’ ‘Ram’ and ‘Identity ’

Trisha shares a glimpse of her time with Chiranjeevi and MM Keeravaani

Emraan Hashmi’s first look in Pawan Kalyan’s ‘OG’ released on his birthday

The makers of filmmaker Sujeeth’s upcoming film OG, starring Pawan Kalyan in the lead role, released Emraan Hashmi’s first look from the film and revealed his character’s name. Emraan will play a gangster called Omi Bhau in the movie. The poster shows him sporting a beard and long hair, apart from a scar on his eyebrow The poster reads, “Happy Birthday Omi Bhau ” S h a r i n g i t , t h e f i l m ' s p r o d u c e r , D V V Danayya, wrote, “Happy Birthday, deadliest O M I B H A U @ e m r a a n h a s h m i C o u l d n ’ t imagine a clash more electrifying than with #OG #TheyCallHimOG (sic)” Fans seem happy with the poster, as many commented that they look forward to seeing the actor clash with Pawan onscreen

One fan wrote, “Their face off gonna create havoc ” Another wrote, “Madly waiting to see this Clash Seems like #Sujeeth Anna p l a n n i n g s o m e t h i n g B i g & E x c i t i n g @emraanhashmi look adhirindhi (looks so good) Best looks for both the Hero & Villain (sic)” Some fans also tried to zoom in and d e c o d e w h a t w a s w r i t t e n o n E m r a a n ’ s lighter in the first look, with some using the help of Google Translate to share that it says ‘ferocious hyena ’ ‘OG’ or ‘They Call Him OG’ will mark Emraan’s debut in Telugu cinema The film’s shoot

stars

Prithviraj turned down Chiranjeevi twice using the 'same excuse'

Prithviraj Sukumaran’s upcoming film

‘Aadujeevitham - The Goat Life’ has been in production for a few years He recently opened up about the project at a press meet in Hyderabad, revealing that he was so dedicated to it that he turned down superstar Chiranjeevi twice using the “same excuse ” T h e a c t o r r e v e a l e d t h a t h e w a s approached for Chiranjeevi’s ambitious project ‘Sye Rat Narasimha Reddy’ in 2019, by Suhasini Maniratnam Prithviraj said, “I was really flattered, the fact that he thought of me for a big role was like a certificate for me But I apologised and told him I had just started shooting for this project, for which I had been waiting for a decade I had to grow a beard, lose weight He was fine with it ”

Then, in 2022, when Chiranjeevi starred i n t h e T e l u g u r e m a k e o f P r i t h v i r a j ’ s Mohanlal-starrer, the 2019 film ‘Lucifer,’ the actor was once again asked to come on board Prithviraj said, “A few years later, I became a director with Lucifer, which was a hit in Kerala Chiranjeevi sir brought the rights to that film His team asked me again t o c o n s i d e r d i r e c t i n g L u c i f e r ’ s T e l u g u remake Again I told him, I would have loved to sir, but there’s a big film I’m doing for which I have to grow a beard and lose weight And he was like, hey, you said the same story last time I had forgotten that I already used the same excuse But I hope his team conveyed to him that it was true ”

Blessy directed Aadujeevitham, which has been in production since 2009 It is based on a novel written by Benjamin, and the director signed a deal with the writer While he began working on the screenplay, b u d g e t c o n s t r a i n t s h i n d e r e d t h e f i l m ’ s progress in 2015 when Jimmy Jean-Louis and Steven Adams came on as producers

The film was shot between 2018 and 2022 The team was stranded in Jordan for 70 days due to the Covid-10 pandemic and had to be evacuated by the Indian government

110-year-old Japanese

Takarazuka company adapts ‘RRR’ as Broadway play

Varun Dhawan, Samantha’s Indian ‘Citadel’ spin-off gets a title

The first look update of the Indian spin-off of ‘Citadel’ starring Varun Dhawan and Samantha Ruth Prabhu is finally here. Prime Video India shared the first poster of the upcoming series last week. The announcement also revealed the title of the show, ‘Citadel Honey Bunny ’

Sharing the poster, Prime Video India wrote a long caption to reveal details about the series It began with, “Prime Video has confirmed the Indian series within the Citadel universe will be called Citadel: Honey Bunny ”

It further read, “Citadel: Honey Bunny has a riveting narrative that fuses the pulse-pounding elements of a gritty spy action thriller with the heartwarming allure of a love story, all set against the vibrant tapestry of the 90s Honey Bunny is the Indian series within the Citadel universe ”

The yellow poster had the title card, which

also gave a peek into the characters of Varun and Samantha, who play spy agents in the show Both actors were seen holding a gun and taking aim The announcement also revealed the rest of the ensemble, consisting of other Indian actors Kay Kay Menon, Simran, Soham Majumdar, Shivankit Parihar, Kashvi Majmundar, Saquib Saleem, and Sikandar Kher

C r e a t e d b y

premiered exclusively on Prime Video in April last year Richard Madden and Priyanka Chopra played two elite agents named Mason Kane and

announced, many wondered if the series was a remake When a fan asked her the same on Instagram under one of her posts, she replied, “it is not a REMAKE!!” The Indian version is a spinoff, with versions planned in Spanish, Italian and Mexican

UK based Gujarati filmmaker's 'Vrukshree' earns global acclaim

star studded ceremony on February 20 a t t h e T a j B a

d

, attended by popular Bollywood and TV personalities Anil Kapoor, Shah Rukh Khan, Bobby Deol, Kareena K a

Mukerji, Vikrant Massey and many others M o r e o v e r , V r u k s h r e e h a s emerged as an award winner in the best environment category at other international film festivals this year including Jakarta Independent Film F e s t i v a l , S i n g a p o r e I n t e r n a t i o n a l S h o r t F i l m F e s t i v a l , S e n t i n e l I n t e r n a t i o n a l F i l m A w a r d s a n d S a n t a d e v I n t e r n a t i o n a l F i l m

Festival T h i s s h o r t f i l

Ace filmmaker SS Rajamouli has shared a post as a 110-year-old Japanese Takarazuka company adapted his blockbuster ‘RRR’ as a Broadway play Rajamouli posted pictures and videos to X as he attended the event In the first video, the audience clapped inside the theatre as he expressed his gratitude with folded hands He also waved at everyone The actors were seen on stage smiling, clapping and greeting the crowd with folded hands T h e s e c o n d c l i p s h o w e d

the Broadway play of RRR just like the film itself ”

He added, "Overwhelmed by your response Can't appreciate a l l t h e g i r l s e n o u g h f o r y o u r energy, talent, and meticulousness i n t h e s h o w A R I G A T O G O Z A I M A S U ” R e a c t i n g t o t h e post, a fan said, "@ssrajamouli sir, i t ' s s u c h a g r e a t t h i n g t h a t Japanese people also like Indian f i l m s , a n d i t ' s m a d e u s p r o u d Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for that, and love you " A comment read, "Such an honour "

Rajamouli exiting the venue as p e o p l e g a v e h i m a s t a n d i n g o v a t i o n A p i c t u r e s h o w e d

Rajamouli with the actors All of them wore white outfits, while Rajamouli was seen in a blue kurta a n d a c o l o u r f u l s h a w l o n h i s s h o u l d e r S h a r i n g t h e p o s t , h e captioned it, “It’s an honour that our RRR has been adapted as a m u s i c a l b y t h e 1 1 0 - y e a r - o l d Takarazuka company Thank you Japanese audience for embracing

A person tweeted, "Amazing what a r e a c h R R R h a s !

Congratulations!”

‘ R R R ’ f o l l o w e d a p r ei n d e p e n d e n c e f i c t i o n a l s t o r y woven around two real-life Indian revolutionaries Alluri Sitarama R a j u ( C h a r a n ) a n d K o m a r a m Bheem (Jr NTR) in the 1920s

The film raised over 1,200 crore at the global box office and went on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song for its track ‘Naatu Naatu ’

Dev Patel’s ‘Monkey

Man’ co-star recounts him being emotional

at the SXSW premiere

Dev Patel’s ‘Monkey Man’ recently won the Headliner Audience Award at the SXSW Film Festival. Yet to be released, the movie has gained immense appreciation from critics and fans alike

Speaking about his experience and the audience reaction at SXSW, Dev’s co-star Vipin Sharma said in a statement, “As soon as the very first screening o Monkey Man finished at Paramount Theatre in Austin on March 11, the audiences started to scream with joy Dev Patel, the writer, director and lead, came on stage, and a standing ovation welcomed him People kept clapping and he became so emotional that he had to turn his back to wipe his tears After all, it was around 10 years that he fought for his dream to come true The film was almost shelved at times, and then there was no distribution in sight after it was

finished! Barely able to control his emotions, he then very humbly asked Claudette, the director of the festival, if he could bring the cast on stage, and that was am come true ment after most 3 years of having shot the film in a bubble in Indonesia on an island during the pandemic!”

He added, “Monkey Man was received h such warmth e cried, d, gasped and laughed for around two hours, mesmerised, never looking away from the screen Such is the spell of Dev’s superb action thriller ” Dev’s directorial debut, 'Monkey Man,' also stars Sobhita Dhulipala, Sikandar Kher, Sharlto Copley, Pitobash, Vipin Sharma, Ashwini Kalsekar, Adithi Kalkunte, and Makarand Deshpande

The project, produced by Jordan Peele, will be released theatrically by Universal Pictures in India on April 5

Kohli lays foundation for Royal Challengers victory

Between the last ed ition of the IPL and no w, Virat Kohli hasn’ t been a regu lar in T20 cricket With a T 20 World Cup berth at stake, he did not fire ag ainst C hennai Su per K i ng s in t h e o p ene r Bu t o n M o n d ay , a s R o yal C h al le ng e rs B eng a lu r u b eg a n th ei r h o m e stretc h o f th e com p eti ti on, the o p en er s ig nal le d h i s r etu rn t o form with a sparkling 49-ball 77 against Punjab King s Kohli laid the fou nd ati on f or th e 1 77- run chase, but RCB d id not finish the f o ur - w ic k et w in w i th o u t stretching it to the last ov er A s Koh li broug ht up his 10 0th T 20 half-century in 31 deliveries, there were no celebrations, instead the seasoned camp aig ner focused on th e run chase

Asked to bat first, Punjab were r e s t r i c t e d t o 1 7 6 / 6 T h e h o m e team reached the target with four balls to spare Gujarat pip Mumbai by 6 runs

At 107/2 in 12 overs chasing 168 set by Gujarat Titans, fivetime champions Mumbai Indians were looking to kill the chase with balls to spare But, the Titans, like they have done in their previous two seasons, applied the squeeze by delivering tight overs and eking out a six-run win in their opening

match of the 17th edition at the N a r e n d r a M o d i S t a d i u m , i n

Ahmedabad Left-arm spinner R S a i K i s h o r e ( 1 / 2 4 ) t r a p p e d a dangerous-looking Rohit Sharma ( 4 3 ) i n f r o n t i n t h e 1 3 t h o v e r

Veteran pacer Mohit Sharma (1/32) had Dewald Brewis (46) caught off his own bowling while Afghan leg spinner Rashid Khan threw in two miserly overs to apply the choke on Mumbai Indians, who lost yet another opening match Earlier, Mumbai Indians’ pace spearhead J a s p r i t B u m r a h d e l i v e r e d f o u r masterful overs of T20 bowling to s t i f l e G u j a r a t i n t h e i r m u c hanticipated clash Bumrah showed w h a t t h e f i v e - t i m e c h a m p i o n s missed in the last edition as the local boy recorded figures of 3/13 to help restrict the Titans to 168/6 in 20 overs

Rajasthan win their opener J a i p u r : R a j a s t h a n R o y a l s tasked Sandeep Sharma with a tough job - to stop the growing p a r t n e r s h i p o f 8 5 o f f 5 1 b a l l s b e t w e e n K L R a h u l ( 5 8 ) a n d Nicholas Pooran (64 not out) as L u c k n o w S u p e r G i a n t s ( L S G ) n e e d e d 4 9 f r o m 2 4 b a l l s T h e seamer did not disappoint and eliminated the threat in the 17th o v e r w i t h R a h u l ’ s w i c k e t

Ravichandran Ashwin followed it up with Marcus Stoinis’ (3 off 4 b a l l s ) s c a l p b e f o r e A v e s h K h a n successfully defended 27 runs in t h e l a s t o v e r t o e n s u r e R o y a l s opened their campaign with a 20 runs victory at the SMS Stadium in Jaipur on Sunday Pacers Trent Boult and Nandre Burger got the Royals’ defence off to a perfect start Bowling in tandem, the duo reduced LSG to 3-11 in 3 1 overs Earlier, having elected to bat first, i t w a s R o y a l s s k i p p e r S a n j u Samson who propped them up with a smartly curated unbeaten 82 off 52 balls to help set a solid target of 193/4 in 20 overs

Capitals suffer 4 -wicket loss to Punjab

With world cricket’s eyes on their captain Rishabh Pant, Delhi Capitals went in for the match

Edgbaston supports search for women’s cricket stars of future

Wa rw i cksh i re is su p po rting th e nati onal

A fr ic an C a ri bb ean E ng a g em e nt ( A C E )

p rog ramm e on an initiative to find future stars of women ’ s cricket The project aim s to id entify women and girls from the region’s

A fr ic an C ar i bb ean co m m u ni ty – ag e d between 15 and 21-years-old – with p otential to make it as fast bowlers in the game

O p e n D a y s a r e s e t f o r E d g b a s t o n ’ s Indoor Centre on 15, 22 and 29 April (6-8 pm) where prospects will be given some coaching and an opportunity to stake a claim for one o f 1 2 p l a c e s o n a t h r e e - y e a r c o a c h i n g programme Entry onto the scheme is free, all kit will be provided, and successful applicants will receive professional cricket and strength and conditioning coaching

A C E f o u n d e r E b o n y R a i n f o r d - B r e n t M B E – a f o r m e r E n g l a n d i n t e r n a t i o n a l cricketer – said: "Cricket is a sport with immense potential for growth and success “It has been great to see the women ’ s game grow from strength to strength over the last decade, but one challenge we are aware of is the lack of representation of females from diverse and underrepresented groups in the t a l e n t p a t h w a y - p a r t i c u l a r l y p l a y e r s o f

African and Caribbean heritage

“We wanted to take the opportunity not just to find females from underrepresented groups, but also try something that hasn’t been done before in cricket

" T h e u l t i m a t e g o a l i s t o p r o d u c e cricketers who can bowl fast (75mph+) with the potential to play at the highest level The initiative is about more than just cricket; it's about empowerment, representation, and b r e a k i n g b a r r i e r s W e b e l i e v e t h a t b y providing access and support, we can unlock the full potential and pave the way for future generations ”

The Sport England-backed project will see the 12 prospects benefit from weekly outdoor coaching in the summer at either E d g b a s t o n ’ s P o r t l a n d R o a d g r o u n d o r

Handsworth Cricket Club

One of the coaches is Chelsea Alagoa, a former Warwickshire pathway cricketer who left the sport aged 15 to compete in athletics before transitioning to bobsleigh following the 2014 Winter Olympics

Rainford-Brent hopes the Open Days will attract interest from athletic women and girls who may want to ‘talent transition’ from another sport into cricket

in the role R i c h a r d G o u l d , E C B C h i e f E x e c u t i v e O f f i c e r , s a i d : " W e a r e t h r i l l e d t o w e l c o m e N i m e s h t o t h e ECB at an important time for our sport His proven t r a c k r e c o r d i n f i n a n c i a l management and strategic insight will be invaluable as we seek to grow cricket and become the most inclusive sport, whilst ensuring we p u t t h e g a m e o n a f i n a n c i a l l y s u s t a i n a b l e footing K a t a r i a s a i d : " I a m proud to be joining the ECB

and hope to be able to play a part in growing cricket and helping even more people to fall in love with the sport I've been a cricket fan my whole life, and while there are real challenges for the whole game in England and W a l e s t o n a v i g a t e , I ' m excited by the opportunity w e h a v e t o b e c o m e t h e m o s t i n c l u s i v e s p o r t a n d secure the future of cricket f o r f u t u r e g e n e r a t i o n s t o play, watch and enjoy "

against Punjab Kings with m o r e s u p p o r t e r s i n t h e stands than the hosts But t h a t w a s a l l t h a t w a s different from their last season ’ s script At IPL’s newest venue in Mohali’s

M u l l a n p u r s t a d i u m , P B K S ’ S a m C u r r a n a n d

Liam Livingstone exposed Capitals’ lack of potency as they knocked off the 174-run target with four balls and four wickets to spare Curran’s 63 off 47, coming in at No 4, coupled with Livingstone’s unbeaten 38 off 21 displayed how seasoned T20 players go about their business L i v i n g s t o n e ’ s m u s c l e d s i x o v e r l o n g - o n o f f d e b u t a n t m e d i u mpacer Sumit Kumar to finish the game was a statement in itself Knigh t Riders escape to victory A n d r e R u s s e l l w a s a t h i s belligerent best to bring Kolkata Knight Riders out of the woods with the bat before he came good with the ball to help the hosts record a narrow four-run victory against Sunrisers Hyderabad in their opening IPL match at the Eden Gardens The Knights’ poor batting and bowling Powerplay records returned to haunt them as the hosts were reduced to 32/3 in

the fourth over after SRH skipper

Pat Cummins won the toss and decided to bowl first But Russell got his half-century off 20 balls a n d s t a y e d u n d e f e a t e d o n 6 4 , hitting three fours and seven sixes, as KKR collected 85 runs off the last five overs KKR’s star of last season Rinku Singh too found the b o u n d a r i e s w i t h s o m e g o o d placements before falling for 23 off 15 balls

CSK beat RC B in IPL opener C h e n n a i S u p e r K i n g s b e a t Royal Challengers Bengaluru by six wickets in the IPL opener in Chennai on Friday RCB recovered to 173 for six against CSK after o p t i n g t o b a t S k i p p e r F a f d u Plessis (35 off 23) got his team off t h e b l o c k s b e f o r e t h e v i s i t o r s c o l l a p s e d t o 7 8 f o r f i v e A n u j R a w a t ( 4 8 o f f 2 5 ) a n d D i n e s h Karthik (38 not out off 26) shared a 95-run stand off 50 balls for the s i x t h w i c k e t t o g i v e s o m e r e s p e c t a b i l i t y t o t h e t o t a l

Mustafizur Rahman was the stand out bowler for CSK taking four w i c k e t s b e f o r e R a v i n d r a J a d e j a and Shivam Dube got the job done w i t h t h e i r s u p e r l a t i v e f i n i s h i n g skills to script a comfortable sixw i c k e t w i n f o r C h e n n a i S u p e r Kings

Naseem Shah, Amy Jones and Richa Ghosh to join Birmingham Phoenix

Naseem Shah, Amy Jones, Richa Ghosh a nd Sean Abbott wer e the big pl ayers of t he night to join Birmin gha m Phoen ix at The Hundr ed Dr aft , powere d b y Sage

Birmingham Phoenix had first choice in the women ’ s side of The Hundred Draft, bringing local Birmingham star Amy Jones back to Edgbaston for her fourth year in B i r m i n g h a m P h o e n i x c o l o u r s S h e j o i n s world stars Ellyse Perry and Sophie Devine who were retained by Birmingham Phoenix last month - while Pakistan international and PSL winner Naseem Shah and Sean Abbott link up with Daniel Vettori’s men ’ s team led by Moeen Ali

Richa Ghosh, Katie Levick, Seren Smale, Ailsa Lister, Chloe Brewer, James Fuller and

Amy Jones will be involved in the opening game of The Hundred’s fourth year, as her P h o e n i x s i d e t r a v e l t o T h e K i a O v a l o n

Tuesday 23 July to face Oval Invincibles – the first of 68 games that promise world class m e n ’ s a n d w o m e n ’ s s p o r t i n g a c t i o n , l i v e m u s i c , a n d a h o s t o f f a m i l y - f r i e n d l y entertainment

Birmingham Phoen ix ’ s pick s in The Hundred D raft

W om e n ’ s: A m y J o n e s , R i c h a G h o s h , Katie Levick, Seren Smale, Ailsa Lister, Chloe Brewer

M e n ’ s: N a s e e m S h a h , S e a n A b b o t t , James Fuller, Daniel Mousley

Tom Banton, Lauren Filer and Ollie

a s w e l l a s i n t e r n a t i o n a l s u p e r s t a r s A n d r e R u s s e l l ,

Ashleigh Gardner, Shaheen Afridi, Chamari Athapaththu and Nicholas Pooran

In 2023, The Hundred and Birmingham Phoenix continued to attract new audiences to cricket A record 580,000 fans were in attendance across The Hundred last season, i n c l u d i n g o v e r 3 0 0 , 0 0 0 i n t h e w o m e n ’ s competition while Birmingham Phoenix saw 70,000 people attend across the four games at Edgbaston last season The Hundred’s blend o f h i g h - q u a l i t y s p o r t a n d e n t e r t a i n m e n t alongside the brilliant matchday experience at Edgbaston saw 22% junior tickets, 29% female tickets and 12% ethnically diverse tickets in Birmingham

England's kabaddi players move to India to improve national team

A head of a World Cu p next year, a g roup of enthusiasts from variou s background s came together to establish Eng land as an emerg ing nation in Kabadd i

d

Kabaddi Federation (WKF), the tournament in England will not feature national teams associated with its rival governing body, the International Kabaddi Federation (IKF)

However, for many of the dozens of kabaddi players in England, it is still an o p p o r t u n i t y T h e s e i n t e r n a t i o n a l p l a y e r

find the time to play the sport between their day jobs and other obligations, with little money and recognition on offer

To pursue their passion abroad, Li, a tech manager in a startup, and accountant Yuvraj Pandeya, quit their jobs altogether They were signed by Dabang Delhi in Pro Kabaddi (PKL), the premier league in the sport

The PKL league launched by Mashal S p o r t s i

2 0 1 4 , s a i d i t h a d 2 2 6 m i l l i o n viewers during the first 90 matches of its 2023-24 regular season "Felix is doing a daily vlog where he's basically sending all the skills that we've learned back to the people in t h e U K , " P a n d e y a t o l d R e u t e r s " T h e problem with kabaddi in the UK is that we don't have the coaches with the know-how," England player Tom Dawtrey said