Asian City Issue 9

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Issue 9 • October 25 - November 7, 2012

She’s got the move!

FRIEDA STARS IN NEW DANCE FLICK Tributes 1. Whenever my loved ones depart…ı feel a part of me extinguishes itself with them. Will there come a day…2…that I will no longer have a bit of myself to let go of?

And then the thought follows…that every time they have taken some of me…3…with them onto theır last journey , I have found a fragment of them left inside me too…I will always have some love to give…

4…and I will always be both emptied and replenished by the loved ones I lose.”

SHAH RUKH KHAN “I never ever thought there would come a day when I would have to say – “ Yash Chopra no more !!…Just back from his studio where he lies still and motionless .. this was the first time I ever saw him on his back in 44 yrs !.

AMITABH BACHCHAN

GOODBYE YASH

“Just got the news that Yashji passed on. He was one of the giants of cinema.

MADHURI DIXIT “I’m in shock and numb, can’t believe the news, the man who immortalised love, Mr. Yash Chopra is no more.”

AKSHAY KUMAR “An icon of Indian Cinema, he entertained many generations with his rare creativity.”

INDIAN PM MANMOHAN SINGH

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FULL STORY: PAGE 16

World mourns death of Bollywood’s top film producer ONE of India’s most influential filmSinger Lata Mangeshkar said: “He made makers, Yash Chopra, has died from me sing in all his films. He was a jovial person... Even when he was angry, he simply dengue fever in Mumbai, aged 80.

Over five decades, Chopra, dubbed the King of Romance, gave Bollywood some of its biggest blockbusters.

His film studios Yash Raj Films helped establish some of Indian cinema’s biggest names, including Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan.

In his tribute, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh described Chopra as an “icon of Indian cinema”.

Yash Chopra will be remembered as the man behind some of Bollywood’s most watched films, known not just in India but around the world, says the BBC’s Rajini Vaidyanathan in Mumbai.

Chopra died in Mumbai’s Lilavati Hospital on Sunday and was also suffering kidney ailments, according to Dr Prakash Jiyavani.

“It is sad news that Yash is no more among us,” close family friend Amit Khanna, chairman of Reliance Big Entertainment, told AFP news agency.

kept quiet.”

In his tribute, Prime Minister Singh said Chopra had entertained many generations “with his rare creativity”.

Romance “His flourish to essay romance and social drama was unmatched,” the prime minister said, adding that the filmmaker had established the international reputation of Indian cinema.

Yash Chopra started his film career working for his brother before establishing Yash Raj Films and going on to produce more than 40 movies - 12 of them as director.

Chopra was behind major hits including Deewar (Wall), Dil To Pagal Hai (Heart Is Mad) and Chandni (Moonlight). On his birthday last month, he said Jab Tak Hai Jaan (Till I am Alive) - being released next month - would be his last movie as a director.

SEE PAGE 12 FOR MORE

Read this paper online at www.asiancity.co.uk

•LEGEND Yash Chopra Follow us on Twitter @asiancity

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Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

TERROR BOMB STING A MAN has been arrested in New York for allegedly trying to blow up the Federal Reserve with what he believed was a 1,000lb bomb but was in fact a fake device provided by federal agents.

The FBI said its sting operation culminated in the arrest of Quazi Mohammad Rezwanul Ahsan Nafis, 21, in a hotel room near the Fed as he tried in vain to detonate the inert device.

The agency said it had controlled the “entire operation to ensure the safety of the public and New Yorkers”, adding that the public “was never at risk”. But the FBI’s admission that it ran the whole

•ARRESTED Quazi Rezwanul Ahsan Nafis

New York plot foiled by FBI agents posing as terrorists operation will inevitably attract accusations of entrapment.

According to the FBI, Nafis travelled to the US from Bangladesh in January with the intention of conducting a terrorist attack. Upon arrival he “actively sought out al-Qaida contacts within the US to assist in carrying out an attack”, the FBI said.

In the course of his search he came across an undercover FBI agent posing as an al-Qaida facilitator. The agent supplied Nafis with 20 50lb bags of fake explosives, the FBI said, and drove to the Federal Reserve with Nafis on Wednesday morning.

Nafis was arrested by agents from the Joint Terrorism Task Force at the scene.

“Quazi Mohammad Rezwanul Ahsan Nafis, 21, was arrested this morning in downtown Manhattan after he allegedly attempted to detonate what he believed to be a 1,000-pound bomb at the New York Federal Reserve Bank on Liberty Street in lower Manhattan’s financial district,” the FBI said in a statement.

“The defendant faces charges of attempting to use a weapon of mass •TARGET Federal Reserve Building on Wednesday after authorities foiled the scheme destruction and attempting to provide material support to al-Qaida.”

Nafis is said to have proposed several targets for the attack, including a “highranking US official” and the New York Explosives Stock Exchange before settling on the New York Federal Reserve. In a written During the journey to lower statement he had professed a desire to Manhattan the 21-year-old assembled “destroy America” and praised Osama what he thought was a 1,000lb bomb bin Laden. using the material supplied by the Nafis has been charged with undercover agent. When the van arrived attempting to use a weapon of mass at the Federal Reserve, just a few blocks destruction and attempting to provide from the World Trade Center, Nafis and material support to al-Qaida. the agent left the vehicle and walked to a The Federal Reserve bank in New nearby hotel, where Nafis “repeatedly, York is one of 12 locations around the but unsuccessfully, attempted to country that, along with the Board of detonate the bomb”, which had been Governors in Washington, make up the assembled using “inert” explosives, the Federal Reserve System that serves as the •EVIDENCE Agents remove boxes of material from the home of bombing suspect Quazi Nafis FBI said. central bank of theUnited States.

•ADMISSION Pazeer Ahmed

Dad kills son in sick attack

A FIVE-year-old boy from West Yorkshire died after repeated violent attacks by his father, a court has heard.

Haroon Bhatti died in hospital after being found at a house in Aberford Road, Wakefield, on 23 January.

Leeds Crown Court heard his father Pazeer Ahmed, 34, had bitten him and repeatedly hit him over two months.

Mr Ahmed, of Aberford Road, has admitted manslaughter, claiming he was suffering an “abnormality of mental function” but denies murder.

The jury was told Haroon had died as a result of injuries to his brain and internal organs. He had been burned with cigarettes and an iron and had suffered a number of fractures.

In the hours before his death severe force was used to bang his head, probably against a bathroom wall, prosecutor Julian Goose said. The trial continues.

A MATCH MADE IN BOLLYWOOD! Saif and Kareena finally tie the knot •BAD CHOICE Padma Lakshmi

Supermodel’s fashion boob SHE was obviously looking to stand out when she opted to don this colourful ensemble to a Donna Karan event on last Wednesday.

But Padma Lakshmi ended up getting the wrong kind of attention as she attended the Connecting The Dots book launch and exhibition opening in New York City.

The 42-year-old ended up flashing her underwear when her frock – which consisted of orange, blue and red patches – became transparent under the camera flashbulbs.

The author and TV presenter seemed unaware that her unsightly white bra could be seen in the harsh lighting and especially with the combination of the outfit’s clingy material.

It was unfortunate too that the straps of Lakshmi’s lingerie didn’t appear to be secured evenly, leaving her chest looking somewhat lopsided.

ON SCREEN they’ve starred in some of the most extravagant wedding scenes in Bollywood, but on Tuesday, Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor got married in a far more intimate ceremony.

After five years together the couple sealed their love with a nikaah followed by a Christian blessing so that both families’ religions would be recognised – Saif comes from a Muslim background while Kareena’s mother follows Christianity.

The vows were exchanged in front of close friends and family at the Taj Mahal hotel in Colaba.

An evening reception was then held at a separate hotel in South Mumbai and was attended by stars including Shah Rukh Khan, Priety Zinta, Karan Johar and Anil Kapoor and his wife Sonam.

The Kapoor dynasty were in full attendance including Kareena’s father Randhir Kapoor, her uncle Rishi, aunt Neetu and cousin Ranbir, as well as Shashi, Shammi and Aditya. Fashion Designer Manish Malhotra also attended the wedding, though did not design Kareena’s main outfit.

He confirms: ‘Kareena wore Saif’s grandmother’s gharara, which had also been worn by Saif’s mother Sharmila Tagore and had been handed down to Kareena.’ The antique outfit was restored and embellished by Delhi designer Ritu Kumar, though Kareena changed into an outfit created by Manish for the evening.

Saif wore a Banarsi brocade achkan outfit by designer Raghvendra Rathore. A second reception was held on Wednesday and a further two are expected. The pair met while they were filming Tashan in 2008, when Kareena was dating Shahid Kapoor and also completeing the shooting of their film together Jab We Met. They have since starred in several other movies together including this year’s Agent Vinod and several advertising campaigns.

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

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•LOVE STORY Saif Ali Khan & Kareena Kapoor on their Big Day

HE’S THE DADDY! •SUPERDAD Ramajit Raghav, 96, feeds his newborn baby

Ramjeet, 96, is world’s oldest father

AN OAP has become the world’s oldest dad for the second time - at the age of 96.

•BEAUTIFUL Kareena on her wedding day with Manish Malhotra

•HAPPY Saif and Kareena at the Sangeet Ceremony

Pensioner Ramjeet Raghav and his wife Shakuntala, who is half his age, welcomed their second son Ranjeet into the world earlier this month.

Ramjeet had already become the world’s oldest dad in 2010 when aged 94 he had first born Bikramjeet.

Speaking at his home in the state of Haryana, 50km from Delhi, Ramjeet added: “What can I do? This is all god’s wish. He wanted me to have another son.”

The pensioner and his wife Shakuntala, 54, gave birth to the healthy boy earlier this month at the Government hospital in Haryana, Northern India.

Ramjeet, who lives in a single room tenement, has high hopes for his sons. He said: “I have been a farmer all my life. But I want them to become high ranking government workers.

“It’s good that I have another son now. Even if one of them dies, god forbid, I will have someone to carry on my family name.”

Ramjeet also revealed his neighbours have become jealous of his fertility.

He said: “”My neighbours are jealous and they keep asking me for my secret but all I tell them is that it is God’s will.

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Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

•TRAGEDY Pronto Grill House

Curry boss spared jail

A RESTAURANT owner whose negligence led to his nephew’s death after he was electrocuted in the kitchen, was spared jail last week.

Nisar Ahmad, 30, was given an 11 month jail sentence suspended for two years.

Judge Timothy Pontius told him: “Your failure to discharge your responsibility led tragically to the death of your nephew, something I imagine will lay heavily on your conscience for years to come.”

Ahmad admitted two counts of Health and Safety breaches.

The Old Bailey heard that Wais Tanha, 18, was working as a chef when he was killed after cleaning a dough making machine at the Pronto Grill House, in Hendon, north London, in September 2010.

Oliver Glasgow, prosecuting, said checks revealed faulty wiring to equipment in the kitchen.

A FAMILY TRAGEDY Dad released from hospital after blaze kills wife and five children

A MAN who lost his wife and five children in a house fire has been discharged from hospital.

•HORROR SCENE Police outside the house in Essex where the family died in blaze

Dr Abdul Shakoor was being treated at Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford for minor injuries sustained last Monday as he fought to rescue his family from the blaze at their end-ofterrace house in Harlow, Essex.

He lost his wife Sabah Usmani and children Hira, 12, Sohaib, 11, Muneeb, nine, Rayyan, six, and Maheen, three, in the tragedy.

A spokesman for Mid Essex Hospital Services NHS Trust said: “I can confirm that Dr Shakoor has been discharged from the St Andrews Centre for plastic surgery and burns at Broomfield Hospital.”

The spokesman said Dr Shakoor had been released late on Friday.

Dr Shakoor was transferred from Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow, where he works, to Broomfield Hospital to be closer to Maheen as she fought for her life, but the threeyear-old died of her injuries on Thursday.

Dr Usmani and her four eldest children all died on Monday shortly after the fire. Essex Police initially treated the blaze as a suspected arson attack but no trace of an accelerant used to spark the flames has been found.

Although officers continue to investigate all possibilities it is now thought “increasingly likely” the fire was a tragic accident.

Neighbours saw distraught Dr Shakoor trying to rush back through the wall of flames into the house to reach his doctor wife and

•LOVING FAMILY Dr Usmani with her kids.

(Right) Dr Shakoor and Dr Usmani children upstairs.

Dr Shakoor worked at the Princess Alexandra Hospital. Dr Usmani did not work as she cared for the children.

Originally from Karachi, they had lived in Saudi Arabia, where the children were born, before moving to the UK in 2003.

Parvez Hamid, 43, and Safia Anwar, 38, said they had known the couple since they moved to Harlow and some of their children attended the nearby Abbotsweld Primary School together.

Mrs Anwar said: “They were a wonderful family. Their children were best friends with our own.

“We would see them at mosque and at the school gates. “I last saw Sabah on Friday. She seemed normal with no worries at all.”

•OFFENSIVE Azhar Ahmed

•ANGRY Muslims are calling for the removal of the anti-Islamic ‘movie’ from YouTube

YOUTUBE HIT BY PROTEST

PROTESTORS spent four hours outside the London headquarters of Google calling for it to take down an anti-Islamic video from its YouTube service. The film, known as Innocence of Muslims, insults the Prophet Mohammed.

The Muslim Action Forum said up to 10,000 people, including 800 imams from mosques across Britain, joined the demo, which closed off one side of a busy road through Victoria on Sunday afternoon.

Organisers said they will hold a “million strong” rally in Hyde Park within weeks unless the offensive film is taken off the internet.

One of those behind the protest contrasted their attitude with that of

•OUTRAGE Scene from the video

British Christians, who he claimed were too willing to put up with faith being demeaned.

Khalid Mahmood, a 38-year-old insurance broken from Coventry, said: “This is for all people, from all faiths. We live in an age of mockery.

It is essentially out of control.”

Masoud Alam added: “Our next protest will be at the offices of Google and YouTube across the world. We are looking to ban this film.

“This is not freedom of expression, there is a limit for that. This insult of the Prophet will not be allowed.”

Sunday’s demonstration was the largest so far in Britain against Innocence of Muslims, a 14-minute trailer for an American film that was put online over the summer, sparking violent protests in Egypt, Yemen, India and Tunisia.

Crowd barriers were set up outside the headquarters of Google, which owns the video-sharing service YouTube, and protestors gathered bearing placards to chant slogans and listen to speeches by more than a dozen imams.

Facebook fool spared prison A MAN who posted an offensive Facebook message following the deaths of six British soldiers has been given a community order.

Azhar Ahmed, 20, of Ravensthorpe, West Yorks, was found guilty of sending an offensive communication.

He said he did not think the message, which said “all soldiers should die and go to hell”, was offensive.

Ahmed was also fined £300 at Huddersfield Magistrates’ Court.

He will have to do 240 hours of community service over a two-year period.

Ahmed was charged after the mother of one of the soldiers read the comments and was so upset she called the police.

The six soldiers were killed by an improvised explosive device (IED) in Lashkar Gah on 6 March, in the deadliest single attack on British forces in Afghanistan since 2001.

‘I SIT IN MY CELL WAITING FOR EMMERDALE’

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

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KILLER BOASTS Psycho appeals for shorter sentence but brags about easy life in prison

A KILLER who shot dead an innocent student has bragged about how he can do his 30-year sentence ‘standing on his head’.

•NO REMORSE Kiaran Stapleton killed Indian student Anuj in cold blood

Kiaran ‘Psycho’ Stapleton was sentenced to life in prison after he shot Indian Anuj Bidve, 23, in the head in Salford, Manchester, on Boxing Day 2011.

And despite his sickening boast, the 21-year-old has begged a judge to reduce his sentence, which he is currently serving at York’s tough Full Sutton Prison.

In a letter, revealed by The Sun, he claims he ‘knows loads of people’ and ‘never gets grief from anybody’.

Instead, he says, he whiles away his days in ‘the best cell on the wing’ waiting for his favourite soaps to begin while feeding on sweets.

‘30 years isn’t that long I don’t think anyway I can do it standing on my head ha’, he wrote.

‘I sit in my cell waiting for Emmerdale and Coronation Street and eating chocolate.’

The letter emerged after its

•VICTIM Student Anuj Bidve outraged recipient passed it to the tabloid newspaper yesterday.

The source told the paper: ‘It’s clear Stapleton doesn’t care that he’s in prison. He thinks he has a cushy life there. It’s disgusting.’

Appeal Stapleton has appealed for his sentence to be reduced at the Court of Appeal.

It is believed he has pleaded for his age and mental health problems to be taken into account. The judges have reserved judgement for a date yet to be fixed.

Stapleton was found guilty of murder in July for killing Anuj Bidve in ‘a piece of cold-blooded controlled aggression’.

Police have never established a motive for the cold-blooded attack by Stapleton, then 19.

Anuj had arrived in the UK to study micro-electronics at Lancaster University and was visiting Manchester with a group of friends last Christmas.

They left their hotel in Salford to queue early for the sales when their paths crossed with Stapleton’s. He calmly walked across the road and repeatedly asked for the time.

When someone finally answered he pulled a handgun out of his pocket and fired one shot to Anuj’s left temple.

The day after the murder he booked into a hotel which overlooked the crime scene in Ordsall Lane and then later went to a tattoo parlour and had a teardrop design placed below his right eye - a symbol used by gangs to mark that the wearer has murdered someone.

•ATTACKED Mukhtar Iqbal

Dad’s trauma over break-in

A FATHER has told how he was smashed over the head with a mirror as he disturbed a burglar ransacking his family home.

Mukhtar Iqbal, 27, was left unconscious on a floor covered in glass after he caught the man searching a bedroom at his house on Harlow Road, Lidget Green, Bradford.

The attack happened on June 9 at 9.45pm, but despite the victim helping police draw up an e-fit of the suspect, no-one has yet been caught.

Mr Iqbal, who this week began counselling to help him come to terms with his ordeal, said he will be unable to get “closure” until the burglar is caught and brought to justice.

FROM ONLY

£P4ER0

RT!

ADVE •BURNED Hawwa Khan

Inquest told of toddler’s tragic death A TODDLER died from horrific burns after she tumbled onto a gas fire at her home from a badly fitted safety guard, an inquest heard.

Hawwa Khan suffered 60 per cent burns when she clambered on to the wire mesh guard and lost her balance at her home in Bradford, West Yorkshire, last December. She was just 23 months old.

Her mother, Bushra Kauser, 23 - who was three months pregnant with her third child at the time of the tragedy - told the hearing that the guard was fitted after she was offered a council-backed home safety check.

Fire investigator Jonathan Needham said at yesterday’s inquest that the guard did not completely protect the gas fire at the toddler’s home in Marsh Street, West Bowling.

The hearing was adjourned so that witnesses from council-run Burnett Fields Children and Family Centre, who fitted the guard, could attend.

•ACCUSED Irfan Naseer, Irfan Khalid and Ashik Ali

TERROR PLOT CHARGE

TERRORIST plotters planned to detonate a series of suicide bombs in an attack that could have been bigger than the 7 July 2005 atrocities, a court has heard.

Irfan Naseer, 31, and Irfan Khalid, 27, travelled to Pakistan for terrorism training before returning to the UK in July last year, jurors at Woolwich crown court were told.

In one conversation, Naseer was heard agreeing that the 7/7 attacks had not done enough damage because there were no nails in the bombs.

The two men, along with Ashik Ali, also 27, are accused of being “central figures” in the alleged extremist plot.

Ali told police in an interview that the plan had involved him wearing a suicide vest as well as carrying a gun, the jury heard.

The group also discussed the use of poisons and attaching blades to the side of a vehicle before driving it into a crowd of people, it is claimed.

The prosecutor Brian Altman QC told the court: “The police successfully disrupted a plan to commit an act or acts of terrorism on a scale potentially greater than the London bombings in July 2005 had it been allowed to run its course.

“The defendants were proposing to detonate up to eight rucksack bombs in a suicide attack and/or to detonate bombs on timers in crowded areas in order to cause mass deaths and casualties.” All the men are accused of engaging in conduct in preparation of terrorist acts, which they deny.

Naseer is accused of five counts of the offence, Khalid four and Ali three, all between Christmas Day 2010 and 19 September 2011.

For Nasser, from Sparkhill, Khalid, from Sparkbrook, and Ali, from Balsall Heath, all in Birmingham, this is alleged to have included planning a bombing campaign, collecting money for terrorism and recruiting others for terrorism. The trial continues.

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Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

AsianCity LETTERS www.asiancity.co.uk

COMMENT

BRITAIN’S BEST ASIAN NEWSPAPER

Loving it or hating every minute of it, this is your platform to express yourself to thousands of fellow Asian City-zens in the same boat as you. Tell us your points of view or simply vent your spleen, don’t hold back... we’re here to share your joy and pain

Use words wisely

GET WELL SOON

IF THE first generation felt too afraid or marginalised to speak out, and the second generation were left frustrated that their efforts to be heard was met with constant barriers, the Internet has allowed the third generation to finally have a voice that has to be heard.

All around the world, social networking sites and personal blogs have made it possible for even the meekest among us to speak their minds.

We can only marvel at the strength and resilience of someone like 14-year-old Malala Yousafzai, who has vowed to continue updating her online diary despite the despicable threat of execution hanging over her, but at the same time, it’s important to note that just because we have a platform in the form of the Internet to say our piece, it does not automatically give us the right to spout hatred.

The case of Azar Ahmed is one such shameful example. We all have our opinion regarding the wars of the world, and there are endless forums on the web to channel those views and debate them at length. But to abuse that platform by writing something as offensive as condemning all soldiers to death and damnation is not the way to vocalise our feelings.

Words are a weapon. But as with any weapon, they should be used as a defence rather than a mindless attack.

MY HEART goes out to poor little Malala who was shot by Taliban terrorists in Pakistan. I simply can’t comprehend how anyone could shoot a child. How barbaric are these people that they think it’s perfectly acceptable to try to kill a little girl?

Why did they do it? Because she wanted to go to school and better her life and those of other little girls like her.

It’s all very well Mr Imran Khan marching to protest about attacks on the Taliban, but where are the marches to protest about these thugs trying to kill a child?

I sincerely hope that the bravery of Malala inspires other girls in Pakistan and Afghanistan. Surely these fanatics can’t shoot every young girl?

My prayers are with you Malala.

Hope you pull through. You’re a true inspiration.

It’s also shocking because Pakistan as a country encourages girls to get educated and get invloved in politics. Remember we had a female Prime Minister!

Nahid Ali, Kent

News before views AS A niche newspaper dedicated to bringing you news that only concerns those of us with subcontinental roots, there is much in terms of world affairs that we don’t have the opportunity to comment on here. The situation in Syria, for instance, is a truly barbaric one, where human rights are being abused on a daily basis, with the western world seemingly turning a blind eye.

But if it is true that young British Asians really are involved in Jihadist training camps in Syria, then perhaps we are all doing as big a disservice to our youth as the west are by not making the affairs of the war-torn country part of our agenda.

It’s time for us all to take a serious interest in what’s going on in the rest of the world and, more importantly, pass it on to our children.

We already have training camps right here in the UK. They’re called schools. It’s up to us to teach our children that education and information is all the training they need to help make the world a better place.

Let’ encourage them to start looking at news of the world from more than just the one angle.

A true entertainer THE term “born entertainer” couldn’t have applied to anyone better than Yash Chopra.

Throughout his long and illustrious career, he always put the wishes of the viewers before any consideration for making a swift buck.

What made his romantic blockbusters all the more charming was that we could see the love and passion for his art that he poured into every scene. It’s befitting that his last movie is Jab Taak Hai Jaan (Till I Am Alive). He was born to bring us joy, and kept his promise till the final cut.

Email: letters@asiancity.co.uk

Government hypocrisy SO, someone with Asperger’s Syndrome who visited dodgy sites was told that he would not be extradited to the US. All well and good for Gerald Mckinnon, but two weeks ago, Babar Ahmad and Talha Ahsan were sent over to face trial in the US. Talha Ahsan also had Asperger’s syndrome. So, why is it ok to extradite Muslims, but when a non-Muslim does something just as bad (McKinnon hacked into high security US Government sites) he gets the intervention of the Home Secretary?

This is nothing but bare-faced racism.

FIRST there was the marches in Dhaka The Home Secretary is a disgrace and protesting about the anti-Islam films. Then, should step down immediately.

Chittagong goes up in flames because of a Ahad Islam, Stepney picture posted on Facebook. Now this Bangladeshi bloke gets arrested in America for trying to blow up a bank. I’m scared that Bangladesh will follow Pakistan and become a haven for religious extremists and EVERY issue, I see stories about Asian perverts either raping or trying to rape terrorists.

It’s obvious that the democratic process in women. What is it about Asian men that Bangladesh has resulted in this. Years of the causes them to do this so much? I was always two Begums sniping at each other and filling proud that Asian people were less likely to be their ministries with lackeys has led to criminals than others. However, it appears Bangladeshis feeling disenfranchised and that more and more of us are not only becoming criminal, but sexually deviant. disenchanted with the political system.

Our community leaders need to come out They need to go and a proper, secular Government put in its place to deal with this and take a stand against such things instead of sweeping things under the carpet and issue.

When the Pakistani army was rampaging hoping these things will go away. through Bangladesh in 1971, the senior Alia Rahman, Ilford command told their soldiers that it was Ok to rape and murder as we were basically Hindus. As a result, Bangladesh has never succumbed to Islamism.

However, the inaction and ineptitude of MY heart goes out to the family who perished the Two Begums could lead to more and in the house fire in Essex. What a tragedy that more turning to hardline and extreme a whole family could die like that. The husband must be in bits thinking about how philosophies. his wife and children all died in such a terrible Nasim Ahmed, Forest Gate way. My prayers go out to them.

Manpreet Singh, Southall

Extreme democracy

Stop the Perverts

Heart breaking

Congratulations!

GREAT to see Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor finally tie the knot! So happy for them! They’re a real power couple in Bollywood. Have to say, I have a real crush on Saif, so am a teeny bit jealous of Kareena!

LOL! Preeti Patel, Wembley

I read with horror the shooting of the Pakistani girl Malala by the Taliban.

When my nine year daughter asked me what happened to her having seen the news, I replied she was shot for WANTING to go to school.

It’s amazing how we, here in the West, take such things like free education for granted.

My daughter then realised that Malala was on her way to school when she got shot. She couldn’t understand it.

But I explained to her how lucky we are.

In fact, every child in the West should be grateful and make the most of the opportunities afforded them.

It’s times like this we realise just how important education is. The Taliban are anti-education, antiwomen and above all antifreedom.

Let’s hope Malala makes a full recovery and goes on to complete her studies. I don’t think we’ve heard the last of her.

Priya Mistri, Leicester

PUBLISHER Thufayel Ahmed GUEST EDITOR Nishath Choudhury ART DIRECTOR Virchand Pindoria ENTERTAINMENTS EDITOR Sohail Anjum MARKETING MANAGER Shuhed Miah E: (first name)@asiancity.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS Aliyah Ahmed, Azeem Hussain, Shima Shastry, Hannah Ahmed, Momtaz Begum-Hossain, Jaz Kaur, Ariana Jamila Ayesha Ahmed, Avni Pindoria, Poonam Patel, Lisa Sage, Mandy Jandoo, Jerin Rahat, Adam Ahmed, Asya Ahmed, Faizah Faheem, Rafia Rahman, Tanvir Ahmed, Paul Williams, Ibrahim Ahmed, Amanda Harrison, Mike Singh DISTRIBUTION Qalbi Ali: 07947 279 926 Newstrade: Postscriptum Ltd Non-newstrade: Surma Media PRINTED BY Mortons ASIAN CITY MEDIA LTD Unit 103, Greatorex Business Centre 8-10 Greatorex Street, London E1 5NF T: 0207 247 3537 E: info@asiancity.co.uk W: www.asiancity.co.uk

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Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

Crash scam man jailed

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COWBOY DRIVERS HIRED TO CREATE ACCIDENTS A CLAIMS company owner who made thousands of pounds through a series of car insurance crash scams has been branded ‘outrageous’ by a judge.

2005 when workers at an office block overlooking a roundabout on the A34 near Cheadle, Greater Manchester, spotted the same driver being involved in various low speed crashes of a striking similarity.

AXA insurance, one of the Asif Mallu, 37, was head of a business which made inflated companies affected by the scam, claims for compensation after a investigated a number of the claims team of cowboy drivers were paid and alerted police in 2008.

Convicted robber Mallu had run £500 a time to stage a string of car claims management company 24/7 crashes.

Over a three year period one Direct Claims based in Bolton, hired driver staged a total of 93 road Greater Manchester, which earned smashes by unexpectedly slamming fees for referring people involved in the brakes at roundabouts so car accidents to solicitors. innocent motorists following had no Injury chance of avoiding ploughing into the back of him.

A court heard he created false The shocked motorists were then sued through accident claims invoices to support bogus claims firms for damages and injuries for for vehicle recovery, storage and repair after a number of car an average £17,000 a time.

The scam was uncovered in crashes.

He also represented fraudulent claimants in support of personal injury claims.

The scam which involved another accident claims firm was the biggest of its kind in Britain.

Mallu, from Halliwell, in Bolton, the last man to face trial over the scam, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit fraud and was jailed for 21 months.

Passing sentence at Minshull •SCAM Asif Mallu & Mohammed Patel

•STUNNING Shriya Saran, star of Midnight’s Children

GLAMOUR FOR RUSHDIE FILM

•SMASH Patel is pictured at the scene of one of his accidents (below) Street Crown Court, Manchester, Judge Bernard Lever said: ‘This is a particularly serious fraud which has become something of a public scandal.

‘Millions and millions of pounds of motorists’ money and their inflated premiums are involved and this man has bought into a scandalous fraud the length and breadth of this country.

‘The clearest message will come out of this court today - people who get in a crash for cash scam and you, will go to prison.’

CASH FOR CURRY CLASSES

•MASTERCHEFS Eric Pickles helps to launch the training scheme

A LONDON university will offer scholarships to attract people who want to become curry chefs.

It is the first time scholarships have been offered focusing exclusively on the curry industry.

It is an attempt to plug the gap left in the industry by tougher immigration rules, meaning some restaurants cannot recruit from abroad.

The four scholarships, which also have the backing of the government, are at the University of West London.

They are worth £3,750, which covers half the course’s fees.

The students will also be given placements at high-end South Asian restaurants and mentored by some of the most talented chefs in the sector, such as Cyrus Todiwala.

He said: “I think it’s a great initiative, I also think it’s 20 years late.

“It should’ve been kicked off and been

well and truly established many years ago, so I’m very happy that there’s a little bit of muscle being put behind it now.”

Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Eric Pickles, who was at the university to launch the scheme, said: “This is about the esteem of the industry, this is highly symbolic [it is] about British Asians investing time and money to provide the very best in the catering industry.

“I am really enthusiastic about it. I think Asian cuisine is changing.

“We started as a means to fill the masses if you like, something that was nutritious and very cheap and I think we’re moving now into a world where Indian cuisine quite rightly is seen as subtle, clever and desirable for fine dining.

“If the prime minister’s first choice to celebrate his birthday is with a curry, then there’s a kind of indication of how the nation’s changed.”

CONTROVERSIAL writer Salman Rushdie brought a touch of Bollywood to the 56th BFI London Film Festival.

The ageing novellist won the Booker Prize in 1981 for his book Midnight’s Children, and he has now finally seen his words brought to life on the big screen.

Leading the way at the British premiere was the beautiful Shriya Saran who wowed the Odeon West End in her traditional style of dress.

The 30-year-old actress looked sublime in a green sari with a pink and gold border.

She completed her immaculate look by wearing a blue velvet blouse while keeping her hair up in a neat style.

Former EastEnders star Preeya Kalidas also attended the premiere but opted to dress down in a short trench coat.

Preeya teamed her short pale pink jacket with a pair of black tights and matching platform heels.

Although the film has been approved for distribution in India, industry insiders fear it could lead to trouble over its critical descriptions of late PM Indira Gandhi.

Rushdie’s most controversial book, The Satanic Verses, is banned in India.

•WRITER Salman Rushdie

•STYLISH Preeya Kalidas

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8

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

•JAILED Mohammed Asif Khan

CABBIE MURDERED PREGNANT 2ND WIFE

Cricket star’s Victim left her own husband to heroin plot become killer’s second bride

A FORMER professional cricketer has been jailed for seven years for his role in smuggling £1 million of high-purity heroin from Pakistan.

Asif Khan’s home in Laisterdyke, Bradford, was used as a warehouse for drug dealers and for pressing the drug into blocks to sell on.

Khan, 36, whose cricketing career ended when he was a victim of a stabbing, pleaded guilty to importation of heroin and two charges of possession of the Class A drug with intent to supply.

Prosecutor Stephen Wood told Bradford Crown Court that the plot was rumbled when customs intercepted a package at a warehouse near Heathrow Airport.

It was posted in Lahore and addressed to “A Khan”, Newland Street, Bradford. In it was a 22dollar dryer with 2.43 kilos of heroin of 44 per cent purity hidden inside it.

A TAXI driver murdered a mum-to-be weeks after taking her as his second wife under Islamic marriage laws.

His barrister, Anthony Hayden QC, told court that ‘remorseful’ Arif was ‘a man caught in two very complex relationships’ between traditional Nazia Saiba Khatoon was and Westernised Saiba. killed in a ferocious attack “It’s plain that in the involving three knives at months leading up to this her home on Darlington fateful day the defendant Road, Rochdale. She was was under considerable found in a pool of blood by pressure. On May 7, her seven-year-old son, entirely out of character, he •MURDERED Saiba Khatoon (pictured centre with friends) Faris, and died the next snapped”, the defence day, on her 27th birthday, lawyer added.

But Arif, who drove after being repeatedly minicabs for Joe Baxie’s stabbed in the heart.

Taxis in Rochdale, Affair Siraj Arif, of remained with his wife and Armstronghurst Close, his wife’s Saiba was 19 weeks obtained Rochdale, is now pregnant when she was grudging consent to take beginning a life sentence murdered by Arif, Kim Saiba as a second bride, after admitting her murder Hollis QC, prosecuting, allowable in Islamic law, in a Manchester Crown said. last December.

Court hearing. He must On the day before the The pair had been serve 21 years before childhood sweethearts, but killing, Arif had a violent release can be considered. were both married to other argument with his first wife The court heard that people when they started Nazia about Saiba’s •KILLER: Cabbie Siraj Arif Saiba’s pregnancy had having an affair in pregnancy. triggered arguments 2004.The relationship led Sentencing, Judge woman in her own home between Arif and his wives to Saiba ending her happy Michael Henshell said: “It 18 to 19 weeks pregnant and Saiba’s family, marriage to a doctor, the was a merciless and and whilst her seven-yearclimaxing in the killing. sustained attack on a old was in the house.” father of her son Faris,

•MOVERS AND SHAKERS SRK with Amitabh and Katrina

GANGAWOOD!

THE Gangnam fever has now spread to Bollywood, with megastar Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif copying the internet sensation’s dance style for a fun-filled moment on the sets of ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati 6’ (KBC).

Shah Rukh and Katrina were special guests for an upcoming episode of KBC to promote their much-awaited movie ‘Jab Tak Hai Jaan’. They entertained the audience with their wit and charm and capped it with the impromptu dance.

The Gangnam style entails unique and bizarre dance steps, made popular through ‘Gangnam Style’, a song by South Korean rapper Psy. The style has become a rage, and there’s no doubt the Indian actors are well-tuned in to the latest.

Big B was unaware of the moves, but Shah Rukh agreed to show him the Gagnam style only if the veteran actor and Katrina would join in. Once the trio stood up, they began to groove!

MP accuses aide and cop of dirty tricks campaign

•PROTEST Paloma and Ava Patel

Singing for job hopes AN EAST Lancashire graduate struggling to find a job has teamed up in Westminster with a chart-topping celebrity to voice her concerns over youth unemployment.

Singing outside the Houses of Parliament with Paloma Faith, unemployed Ava Patel from Blackburn, carried out the protest as the Tory Party Conference got under way.

Ava and 13 ‘Battlefront’ campaigners sang while filming for the Channel 4 series.

A former Witton Park High School and Clitheroe Royal Grammar pupil, Ava left Nottingham Trent university two years ago with a degree in journalism and has been looking for work ever since. She said: “I know what it is like being unemployed when all you want to do is work.

“It is completely demoralising.’

POLICE are investigating claims that a leading anti-terrorism officer enjoyed secret nights of passion in the home of maverick MP George Galloway.

According to the controversial politician, Detective Inspector Afiz Khan had an affair with Mr Galloway’s aide Aisha Ali Khan.

And he claims the pair conspired to run a ‘dirty tricks’ campaign against him and his Respect political party.

Det Insp Khan, a member of the Met’s elite SO15 anti-terror squad, has been moved to ‘restricted duties’ while the matter is investigated.

Mr Galloway has suspended Miss Khan, 32, a mother of one, from her post and police are believed to be seeking her to discuss the matter.

A spokesman for the MP claimed last night that the pair’s smear campaign included encouraging the Guardian newspaper to run a lengthy piece claiming Respect was involved in political thuggery in Bradford West, where 58-year-old Mr Galloway won a shock by-election victory over Labour in March.

It was claimed that the couple slept at the MP’s house in Streatham, south London, while he was in Indonesia.

•CLAIMS Aisha Khan with DI Afiz Khan

•ANGRY George Galloway, with wife Putri As well as making a formal complaint to the police, the MP has tabled a motion in Parliament calling on the Home Secretary to make a statement on the issue.

Mr Galloway said he felt ‘violated’ by the events, and called for the officer to be sacked.

‘It could not look worse than that a person whose job is essentially to police Britain’s Muslim community could have been coming and going, sleeping in my house when I was away, when I am the MP for tens of thousands of Muslims and heavily involved in issues that vitally affect the Muslim community,’ he said.

‘If he could not see that then he is too stupid to be a detective inspector in SO15. It is not enough for me that he has been placed on restrictive duties, which means counting pencils. He should be suspended.’

The MP’s motion also alleges that Det Insp Khan used an alias to attack him on Facebook and elsewhere, ‘all the while concealing that he was a senior serving police officer at Scotland Yard’.

aSIaN CITY

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

9

FROM BOMBAY TO BRICK LANE, DOWN THESE MEAN STREETS SHIHAB SALIM MUST GO

e: shabbs@asiancity.co.uk

Which Griffin is the bigger joke? LEARN BEFORE •WHO’S TEACHING WHO A LESSON? Malala Yousafzai

YOU BURN

•TATTOOED OUT Beckham & Saif’s ink jobs

Tattoos in tatters

I’M not a big fan of people who say “I did it before it was fashionable, like”, especially seeing as it basically means you’re revealing yourself to being an old fart, but I had my tattoos done long before the likes of Robbie Williams et al suddenly took it from the realms of the drop-outs and nutters into the arena of the cool, and my roughly made and decades-decayed designs are frankly embarrassing compared to the intricate works of art that seems to adorn the limbs of everyone from the uber hip to the footie fan everywhere you look at the mo.

But, at the expense of sounding like the proverbial fart, I had mine inked on back in a time when having tattoos meant something. You had your tough guys with their army or prison tattoos signifying they were not to be messed with, and you had my kind, eager to show the world we were comfortable being freaks thank you very much.

There were other reasons, but none of it was a fashion statement.

For us, the true art of tattooing died the day David Beckham revealed his badly spelled Hindi “Victoria” forever inked onto his forearm. Tattoos are now the latest trend among Bollywood actors.

Well, if Beckham’s “Victoria” killed the real reasons behind tattoos, Saif Ali Khan’s “Kareena” on his forearm just resurrected it, buried it, then dug up the grave and stomped all over its skull and bones.

•SPOT THE DIFFERENCE Peter and Nick. Separated at birth?

ONE is a fat cartoon character guaranteed to say the wrong thing and make a fool of himself, the other is Peter Griffin from Family Guy.

even restaurants because the owner didn’t want our sort in their establishment), but to think so isn’t against the law.

What makes this country great, and someone who alleges to love it as Other than the surname and the much as Nick should know this, is striking resemblance, both Griffins that we’re all free to think what we share a pig-headed stubbornness damn well please. But, Jesus, have the when it comes to accepting facts. In common sense not to put your hatred one episode of Family Guy, Peter into action! screams: “Where in the Bible does it Now, I hate R’n’B singers, with say that a man can’t fire off some their “ooh, shorty let’s get hoochie in knuckle-children in the privacy of his da club” nonsense. That’s my right, own neighbour’s living room while the hatred it burns in me gives me a his neighbour’s at work? Well, I don’t warm glow of superiority. But if I know where it says it because the then said, let’s all go to Mumzy Bible was way too long to read!”

Stranger’s house, here’s his address, BNP clown Nick Griffin seems to and frisbee Usher records into his be suffering from the same ailment in face, well, that’d be just the kind of his recent mission to defend the moronic one-step-too-far action you’d Christian hotelier who turned away a Opinion expect of a cartoon goon like Family gay couple. Really Nick? If you Guy’s Peter Griffin, not someone bother to read the Bible, there’s a What the buffoon is getting insisting his views be taken seriously. very important story about how not confused with is the word “opinion”. And I know it sounds like a joke, but turning an undesirable couple away Having an opinion is a right, even if let’s not forget Nick actually wants us from an inn that kind of made the any right-minded folk would never to see him as a serious politician! whole religion come to pass in the agree with it. Let’s be honest here.

I for one don’t agree with the first place…

Prejudice isn’t a trait exclusive to recent call for Twitter to ban Nick And just like Peter, Nick doesn’t obnoxious cartoon caricatures or far- Griffin. Say what you like, I say. After care too much about things like the right loons. We all know of Asians all, letting the world know you’re an law or tedious facts like what words who’d agree the hotel owner was utter tool is every person’s right. As actually might mean. Take the word within her rights to turn away the gay Peter Griffin once so eloquently put “right”. For someone so right wing, couple (apparently forgetting that it it: “I’ve got a right mind to… no, wait you’d think he’d know its definition, wasn’t so long ago that we too used a second. I don’t have a right mind. right? Wrong. to get barred from hotels, clubs and My mind’s all wrong.”

In light of his recent Twitter rant against the gay couple who sued the narrow-minded hotel owner for barring them (for those not following the story, classy Nick went as far as to publish the couple’s home address, urging haters to pitch outside and give them what for), Pork-pie Griffin has now defended his stance by claiming: “Discrimination is a right.”

Only it isn’t. It’s against the law (as is, incidentally, publishing someone’s private address on a public forum), which pretty much clears up the difference between right and wrong in such simple terms even a tunnelvisioned oaf should be able to comprehend: if it means you can get arrested for it, it’s pretty far from right.

EVERYONE and their grandmother seems to have a blog these days.

Even I have one tucked away somewhere in the underbelly of the murky cybersphere, and like almost every other blog out there, mine is defined as much by its selfindulgence as it is by the barely above zero readership. But there are exceptions.

You’ll all be familiar with the story of Malala Yousafzai, the 14-year-old girl shot by The Taliban for keeping a blog. The online diary, written under the pseudonym of Gul Makai, is not very different from the kind of day-to-day updates my own teenage daughter writes – what she had to eat today, the favourite pink dress she wore, stuff her classmate said – the exception of course being that, while the worst that could happen to my daughter is that one poorly-phrased comment could get retweeted and turn her into a laughing stock for a bit, Malala’s words carried the threat of execution. A threat that the Taliban have vowed to carry out again unless she shuts up for good.

Their justification?

Malala, they say, is “promoting western thinking”. Dear God (and I use the capital “G” because I’m not referring to the expression but the

Almighty himself, for it is in His name that the Taliban think they are acting), when did demanding the right to an education become an act against Islam?

Ever heard of Muhammad ibn Mūsā alKhwārizmī? He invented algebra. Ibn Sīnā? The father of early modern medicine.

Ibn alHaytham? Ibn Sahl?

Optics engineers who laid down the blueprint for the lenses in your spectacles.

Not to mention the countless philosophers, mathematicians, artists and poets who have been balancing forward thinking and faith dating all the way back to the prophet’s times. Even the prophet himself expressed great sadness at His own lack of education, frequently holding up those who made choices based on information in the highest regard.

This whole sorry saga proves, if proof were needed, that the likes of the Taliban, far from being messengers of God, are nothing more than a bunch of mindless morons, too uneducated to understand that true believers use their minds, not their swords. And certainly not a gun pointing at a 14-year-old girl who could teach you how to think for yourself if only you weren’t so afraid to learn.

MACHINE FUN PREACHER SPEAKING of tattoos, there’s a great joke in the latest instalment of Diary of a Badman (Episode 2.3, released on YouTube earlier this week) where a Freshie Uncle skits about how he didn’t know what tattoo to get so he settled for having the word “tattoo” tattooed on his neck.

For those of you unfamiliar with the Badman, he’s the million-hit generating Muslim pipsqueak who strings together a loosely themed sketch show of slapstick shenanigans, always signing off with a serious message. Traditionally, preaching is the enemy of comedy, but considering most things posted on the Internet in the name of entertainment rarely have a point let alone a moral, we have to take our beanie hats off to the Badman for going on the religious tip with his tongue in his cheek instead of hate in his heart.

Fact is preachers exist because impressionable kids need guidance. And who says that guiding figure should be a mad mullah who fills their heads with intolerant crap? The Internet is the modern place of worship for the new generation. If my kids are going to listen to a religious sermon, I’d rather they were spoken to by someone who seeks to enlighten them by raising their spirits instead of demanding they wear their religion like a tattoo of identity.

This article is here to illustrate the difficulty of signing off with a serious message without sounding like an utter arse. To see how it’s meant to be done, log onto Humza Productions on YouTube now.

10

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

•CHARITY Freida Pinto at the UN’s launch for Day of the Girl

FRIEDA’S TOP IDEA HOLLYWOOD star Freida Pinto took to the skies to help launch the first-ever UN Day of the Girl.

The Slumdog Millionaire actress took to the London Eye to mark the launch. The famous London landmark will be playing host to a number of activitities to mark WOW Girls and help highlight girls’ inequality around the world.

The initiaitve is led by Southbank Centre and global charity Plan UK, following the success of Southbank Centre’s annual WOW – Women of the World festival, which promotes, recognise and celebrates women.

WOW Girls: International Day of the Girl is a day-long event that brings together 180 girls from schools across the UK. “I grew up in Mumbai and have seen the inequality faced by girls,” says Freida. “I was blessed but millions aren’t.”

“They face being pulled out of school, married early and having children before they’re ready and, in some cases, not being born at all since girls are unfortunately considered to be worthless.”

MALAI CAN DO IT!

A BUSINESSMAN has pledged to ‘save’ Manchester’s famous Curry Mile – by opening up a new £1 million restaurant called Malai.

It was recently reported how the number of curry houses in Wilmslow Road, Rusholme, had halved over the past three years.

Many of the curry houses that gave the area its nickname have now been replaced by shisha bars – where customers smoke flavoured tobacco.

But now Jaf Siddiqi, pictured, says he can put the spice back into the famous stretch by opening a huge new Indian restaurant with tables for 120 diners. It will open next month.

Mr Siddiqi, 30, said: “The Curry Mile has really slipped in the last 10 years, and the number of proper curry restaurants has noticeably reduced.

“Indian food is very close to my heart. I have been going to Curry Mile since I was a kid and my father has been eating there for 35 years.

“I really want to raise the bar on that stretch, I want to bring the culture back.”

LOYAL WIFE SAVES EVIL HUSBAND FROM PRISON

He ordered brutal exorcism and told imam to beat his wife harder A ‘POSSESSED’ woman who was beaten with a walking stick in a home exorcism successfully begged a judge not to jail her husband even though he planned the black magic ceremony, a court heard last week.

Asma Hussain, 50, was tied to a bed, whipped and doused with holy water after family members became convinced her body was filled with demons.

Wheelchair-bound Ahmed Hussain, 60, instigated the exorcism by a local Muslim imam and encouraged him to hit his wife harder ‘to beat the demon out’, Snaresbrook Crown Court heard.

But last week he was spared jail after his forgiving wife Asma asked for his freedom and said: ‘It would be the end of my life if Ahmed lost his liberty.’

Holy water was also thrown on Mrs Hussain during the eight-hour ordeal, also witnessed by Hussain’s son, Kayes Hussain, 28, and son-inlaw Mohammed Aziz, 21.

Hussain was given a 12-month prison sentence suspended for two years and will also be supervised for a year. Kayes Hussain was jailed for 12 months while Aziz was locked up for nine months.

Asma suffered injuries to her hands and face including a bloody nose, and her back was described as ‘one massive bruise’ after the cruel attack, last January 7.

But Mrs Hussain was unwilling to give evidence against her husband.

She continues to play the role of husband’s loyal servant throughout the trial - pushing him to and from the court house in a wheelchair.

Mrs Hussain made an impassioned

•DEVOTED Victim Asma loyally pushed her husband Ahmed to court in a wheelchair apart by these proceedings.

‘Since his father’s health has declined considerably, I need my son’s help.

‘The fact is I have no one else to rely upon. In sending him to prison, it is me who will be punished.’

The alarm was raised after another Respect daughter of Mrs Hussain visited and ‘Any prison sentence for Ahmed called paramedics, the court heard.

Mrs Hussain had been suffering would be a prison sentence for me.

‘It would be the end of my life if from stress due to caring for Ahmed Ahmed lost his liberty.’

Hussain, which was interpreted by ‘Mohammed Kayes has always the family as her being possessed, a been a good son and has shown me police spokesperson said. nothing but love and respect.

The imam has mysteriously ‘My family has already been blown vanished.

plea to Judge Neil Sanders urging him to be merciful when sentencing her husband and son.

‘I don’t believe Ahmed can cope with life if he loses his liberty,’ she wrote.

•HOSPITAL Royal Berkshire

Miracle mum comes back from dead A MOTHER of four, declared dead by doctors, has made a ‘miracle’ recovery.

Tasleem Rafiq, 52, who suffers from multiple sclerosis, was effectively ‘dead’ for at least 45 minutes after being rushed to hospital following a heart attack.

But the next morning, she was alert and chatting with her family as though nothing had happened.

Mrs Rafiq’s recovery has baffled doctors at the Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading, who are describing it as ‘a miracle,’ according to her family.

Now Mrs Rafiq shows no sign of her ordeal.

She said: ‘God will take you when he chooses.

Everyone was praying and God said: “I am going to leave this lady.”

I am a very lucky mother.’

•JAILED Atiq Rehman

Sex attacker gets 6 years

•ACCUSED The victim’s son-in-law Muhammed Aziz (left)

•ACCUSED The victim’s son, Mohammed Kayes Hussain (right)

‘FAKE MARRIAGE GANG’ A WELL-organised sham marriage gang staged fake weddings with eastern European brides so Pakistani men could illegally enter the UK, a court heard.

Czech and Slovak women living in the UK were paid by Asian organisers to fly out to Pakistan where ‘marriages’ were arranged with Pakistani nationals.

Supported by false documents, applications for settlement and family permit visas were submitted to the British High Commission in Islamabad by Pakistanis seeking leave to join their ‘wives’ in the UK. As overseas nationals they would have been allowed to

stay in the UK as ‘husbands’ of their spouses who were legitimately resident here as EU citizens.

But suspicions over the growing number of applications in Islamabad led to the Rotherham-based ring being smashed and none of the 62 fraudulent visa applications were ever granted.

Prosecutor Sarah Wright said: ‘It was a well-run, professional and indeed commercial operation. It was a massive operation over a considerable period of time.’

The phoney weddings included brides posing for photographs with their ‘grooms’ and pretending they were getting married.

A FAILED asylum seeker who raped a clubber twice before authorities could deport him has been jailed for six years.

Pakistan-born Atiq Rehman, who was twice refused leave to remain in the UK, lured a 22-yearold woman into the back room of a corner shop and attacked her on a mattress laid on the ground.

He had led her from outside Inferno’s nightclub in Clapham, south London, with the promise of a taxi ride home before threatening to tie her up with tape while he carried out the terrifying sex attack.

Rehman, who is 20 but claims to be just 16, illegally entered the UK early last year, Inner London Crown Court heard, but his bid for asylum and subsequent appeal were rejected by the Home Office.

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

11

12

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

YASH CHOPRA: BORN 27-9-32 DIED 21-10-12

YASH:Bollywood RESTturnsINoutPEACE in force as

King of Romance is cremated BOLLYWOOD filmmaker Yash Chopra, who succumbed to dengue and multiple organ failure on Sunday evening, was cremated at the Chandanwadi Crematorium on Monday evening in the presence of a host of cinematic personalities, family members and people from other walks of life.

•KING-MAKER Shah Rukh Khan

Chopra, who turned 80 on September 27 this year, died on Sunday at Mumbai’s Lilavati Hospital, nine days after being admitted to it with a complaint of dengue symptoms.

At the time of his admission to hospital, he was preparing for the release of his last directorial venture Jab Tak Hai Jaan starring Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma.

Earlier, Chopra’s body, covered with white flowers, was kept on stage number 3 of the Yash Raj Films studio since morning for people to come and pay homage. A huge black and white photo of the director was also there with several candles lit around it.

Celebrities Son Aditya, Uday and actress Rani Mukerji were seen standing in front of the stage with moist eyes, while the family members and those from film fraternity were seen sitting behind.

A string of celebrities were seen entering the studio from both the front and back gates, guarded by policemen

•CLOSE With son Uday Chopra

•FINAL FAREWELL Amitabh Bachchan and security personnel owing to the large number of fans that had gathered outside.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan, Shahrukh Khan, Vidya Balan, Shahid with father Pankaj Kapoor and step mother Supriya Pathak, Parineeti Chopra, Sridevi with husband Boney Kapoor, Manoj Kumar, Kajol with mother Tanuja and sister Tannisha, Tabu, Kabir Khan with wife Mini, Prem Chopra, Ashutosh Gowarikar, Vipul Shah, Abbas Mastan, Ramesh Sippy, Gulzar, Subhash Ghai, Shyam Benegal, Saroj Khan, David Dhawan, Resul Pukkotty, Imran Khan and Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy were among those who had come to pay their last respects.

Actors Rishi Kapoor, son Ranbir, Randhir Kapoor, Archana Puran Singh and husband Parmeet Sethi, Punit Malhotra and Varun Dhawan were also present.

On Sunday night, several celebrities, including Salman Khan, John Abraham, Manish Malhotra, Priyanka Chopra, Sonu Nigam, Amitabh Bachchan with son Abhishek and daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai visited the studio.

•SUPERHITS Some of Yash-ji’s SRK blockbuseters (centre, his latest film Jab Tak Hai Jaan)

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

LICENCED TO WED

•ENGAGED Amir and Faryal

•FETCHY Adel Ishaq

•NODDY Asif Rehman

Evil killers jailed

Khan’s girl wants truth from his ex

LIFE sentences were given to two men for murdering a man outside his home A jury took two hours and 50 minutes to find Asif Rehman, 20, and Adel Ishaq, 19, guilty of murdering labourer William McKeeney, 57.

A charge that the attack was racially motivated was dropped.

William was coming home with a fish supper after a night out when Rehman, known as “Noddy”, and Ishaq, nicknamed “Fetchy”, attacked him outside his home in Pollokshields, Glasgow, on January 15.

His partner, Anne Newlands, 48, told how she saw “two Asian men stamping on something”.

She went outside and found William on the ground.

A COUPLE from east London have a licence to thrill the living daylights out of their wedding guests by planning a James Bond themed bash - complete with jet planes, flash cars, a helicopter, celebrity crooners and a Daniel Craig lookalike.

The impersonator brought traffic to a standstill on Tuesday as excited crowds and paparazzi gathered snap shots after the lookalike fooled passersby.

In fact, he was just meeting the couple for the first time ahead of their big day.

The lavish ceremony, which is estimated to be costing the pair more than £100,000, will see Abdul Hassan and his wife Layla who have already had a traditional Muslim ceremony - tie the knot 3,000ft above St Paul’s Cathedral on a 747 jumbo jet with 400 passenger guests.

Fighter jets will fly beside the plane, which was featured in the Bond movie Casino Royale.

After landing, the couple will be whisked away by helicopter while the guests hop into a fleet of waiting limos to take them to

•THRILL Abdul and Layla Hassan meet ‘Bond’ the reception at a surprise venue where they’ll mingle with “James Bond” and be treated to live performances by last year’s finalists from The X Factor.

Abdul, 31, and 30-year-old Layla married two weeks ago in a traditional Muslim ceremony, which was considered the bride’s party. Abdul, a business manager at a luxury car company, says the Bond celebration, which will take place on November 5, is his turn to have some fun.

The couple first met a decade ago at college, but only got back in touch two years ago and their families arranged their marriage.

BOXING star Amir Khan’s fiancée has demanded a showdown with one of his ex-lovers… to find out if he cheated on her.

what evidence Natalie has of the alleged affair, insisting: “I have every right to know.”

Speaking to the Sunday Mirror, Natalie said: “I’m happy to meet Faryal and tell Faryal Makhdoom requested her everything that happened. the meeting with Natalie Fox As his bride-to-be she does after growing suspicious of the have a right to know.” two-time world champion.

Faryal first confronted It is believed she discovered Natalie via a series of texts on text messages between Amir October 9. She had found and blonde model Natalie Natalie’s number in her phone alluding to a fling. which Amir had also been Natalie, 28, claims she using to text his former flame. bedded him just TWO Faryal said that Amir had WEEKS before his official told her he had slept with engagement to American Natalie, but in January 2011, a Faryal in January. long time before she got But Amir, 25, insists it together with him. happened A YEAR earlier in January 2011.

Now, New York-based student Faryal, 20, wants to know the truth before she marries Amir... and is even prepared to fly to the UK to meet Natalie face-to-face.

For the moment she has chosen to believe Amir – who says he only romped with Natalie before getting together with her.

But she has asked to see •FLING Natalie Fox bedded Amir

BIG B’S B’DAY!

AMITABH Bachchan’s 70th birthday bash saw the cream of the film industry in attendance, but the cameras were most excited by a little girl who was not even entirely aware of what was happening around her. Dressed in a white dress and matching bow, baby Aaradhya, who has been almost obsessively shielded from the glare of the media, was allowed to witness the madness of the media for the first time in her young life.

13

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14

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

WORLD NEWS Gunmen kill 4 in Quetta

GUNMEN on motorbikes have shot dead four people from the minority Shia Hazara community in the Pakistani city of Quetta, police say.

No-one has claimed responsibility for the attack, which police say bears all the hallmarks of a sectarian attack.

All those killed were workers in the city’s busy scrap market.

Hundreds of Shias have been killed in Pakistan since 2011. Most of the deaths have taken place in Balochistan, of which Quetta is the capital.

The million-strong ethnic Hazara community - mainly migrants from Afghanistan - have been the focus of many of the attacks over the last 20 years.

Officials blame Pakistan’s most powerful extremist organisation, the pro al-Qaeda Sipah-eSahaba - or Soldiers of the Companions of the Prophet - for most of the violence against them.

Sunni extremists see Shias as heretics and have regularly accused them of being proxies of Iran in Pakistan.

E L TA

Asylum gang rampage PIRATES HIJACK BOAT IN BID TO REACH AUSTRALIA WIELDING knives, swords and machetes a group of asylum seekers turned pirate when they clambered aboard a fishing boat, attacked the crew and demanded to be taken to Australia.

One crew member picked up by a naval boat has been photographed with a neck brace and a bandage covering a deep slash to his stomach.

The Sri Lankan Navy later announced on its website that 11 people had been taken into The gang of 10, including a custody from the hijacked vessel woman, used a small boat to and were being held by police on reach the fishing vessel off the Sri the Sri Lankan mainland.

However, the statement was at Lankan coast, before setting on odds with comments by Sri the crew.

First reports about the drama Lankan officials based in who said they on the high seas indicated that at Australia least three crew of the fishing boat understood the fishing boat was have been killed while another still on its way to Australia.

‘We are aware that a boat was two jumped overboard in fear of set upon by a group of people and their lives. three people have perished,’ said Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to Australia, Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe.

‘Three people have perished, one man survived and we suspect that the people who have attacked the fishing boat are trying to get a good conditioned boat to get to Australia.’

•HIJACK Asylum seekers

Visitors can see tigers

•VIOLENT The Sri Lankan fishing vessel was overrun by 10 asylum seekers vessel still somewhere on the high seas.

‘There was some degree of criminality,’ said Admiral Samarasinghe as Sri Lankan Navy boats searched for the vessel.

A spokesman for the Sri Lankan Navy, Kosala Warnakulasooriya said the boat Captured was currently headed for Australia.

The Sri Lankan Times Online The fate of the crew appeared reported later that the fishing boat to be worsening later when it was was seized at Kudawella, 50 miles revealed that the two rescued men from the coast of Hambantota on had reported that three other Monday, but it was only today fishermen had jumped or were that news of the act of piracy thrown overboard during the emerged - with the captured confrontation with the gang.

The commandeered vessel, the Thejan Putha, is understood to now have 14 people on board, made up of the 10 asylum seekers and four crew members who opted to remain on board.

Two merchant ships came to the aid of the two crew members who jumped from the ship.

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DELHI JOURNO FREED

•BAIL Syed Mohammad Kazmi was arrested in connection with bomb attack

INDIA’S Supreme Court has freed on bail a Delhi-based journalist who was arrested in March in connection with a bomb attack on the car of an Israeli diplomat’s wife in the city.

Chief Justice Altamas Kabir granted bail to Syed Mohammad Kazmi but ordered him to deposit his passport.

A motorcyclist had placed a device on the embassy car in the capital city at a traffic light on 13 February.

The blast injured four people, one seriously.

Israel blamed Iran for the attack but Tehran has denied the charge.

Indian officials have refused to point the finger while the investigations continue.

Mr Kazmi, 50, is an Indian citizen who worked as a journalist for an Iranian publication. He was arrested after investigations showed he had been in touch with a suspect who might have stuck a magnetic bomb to the diplomat’s car, police said.

In the attack in February, the wife of an Israeli defence ministry official was seriously wounded. She underwent spinal surgery in the city before she was flown to Israel.

One killed in Kashmir ambush A POLICE official in Indiancontrolled Kashmir says gunmen have opened fire on a military convey and at a hotel.

At least one person was killed and two were wounded.

The police official said the suspected insurgents attacked the convoy on the outskirts of Srinigar and then entered the grounds of the Silver Star hotel

and continued firing. The three victims were hotel employees.

The police officer said that a search operation was under way. He couldn’t be named because he wasn’t authorized to speak to reporters.

Several rebel groups are fighting Indian rule. None have issued statements on the incident.

INDIA’S top court has lifted a ban on tourism in tiger reserves across the country but asked local governments to regulate visitors.

In July the Supreme Court had ordered a complete ban on tourism inside tiger reserves while the government formulated new guidelines.

The ban was lifted late Tuesday after the government announced new rules aimed at allowing tourism to coexist with conservation.

According to the new rules, no new tourist facilities can be created in the tiger areas and only 20 percent of tiger habitats will be open to visitors.

India is home to more than half of the world’s estimated 3,200 tigers, with most living in wildlife reserves set up since the 1970s.

•JAILED Inderjit Singh Reyat

Bomb maker makes appeal THE only person convicted in the 1985 Air India bombing that killed 329 people off the coast of Ireland is asking the Supreme Court of Canada to overturn his perjury conviction.

Inderjit Singh Reyat had already served 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to manslaughter for his role as the bomb maker.

He was convicted of perjury in September 2010 and sentenced to another nine years in prison. He filed the appeal Monday.

Reyat was accused of lying during the 2003 trial of Ripudaman Singh Malik and Ajaib Singh Bagri, who were acquitted of mass murder in the bombing of Air India Flight 182.

Another explosion at an airport in Tokyo killed two baggage handlers.

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

15

WORLD NEWS

GANDHI CLEARED OF RAPE Accuser fined over allegations

INDIA’S Supreme Court has dismissed a petition which accused Congress party MP Rahul Gandhi of raping a woman.

“The reputation of Rahul Gandhi has been damaged by the undesirable act of the petitioner Kishore Samrite,” the bench said. The court ordered Mr Samrite to pay a fine of 2m rupees The court also ordered the petitioner, a ($37,760, £23,401) for “abusing the former legislator, to pay 500,000 rupees process of law on the basis of incorrect ($9440, £5,852) in damages to Mr statement”.

Gandhi for defaming him.

It also asked him to pay damages of 5m Kishore Samrite of the regional rupees each to Mr Gandhi and the family Samajwadi Party had alleged that Mr of the girl.

Gandhi had abducted and raped a Leader woman in Uttar Pradesh in December 2006.

Mr Gandhi’s lawyer, PP Rao, had told Mr Samrite said he made the the court that Mr Samrite’s allegations allegations based on a website report.

The report apparently said that Mr were a “clear case of sinister political Gandhi and his friends kidnapped and mudslinging against a promising young raped a girl living in his parliamentary leader of the country”.

Mr Samrite is a former legislator from constituency of Amethi.

The Supreme Court said the petition the regional Samajwadi Party, which is in was “without substance” and had power in Uttar Pradesh.

Mr Gandhi had campaigned damaged Mr Gandhi and his family’s extensively for his party during the state reputation.

“The allegation is without substance elections at the beginning of the year.

The state was once a Congress and without an iota of evidence,” Press Trust of India quoted a bench of Justices stronghold, but the party has lost ground BS Chauhan and Swatanter Kumar as over the years to regional parties and the Congress lost heavily this year. saying.

•BAIL Shahbaz Sharif

Son-in-law is out on bail THE son-in-law of a Pakistani politician has been granted bail after being remanded in custody for his alleged role in the assault of a security guard at a Lahore bakery.

The lawyer for Imran Yousaf, the son-in-law of Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif, has strongly denied the charge.

Mr Yousaf allegedly authorised the guard’s assault by at least eight men. It allegedly took place after his wife was refused service at the bakery. After winning bail, Mr Yousuf is imminently expected to be released from jail.

Prosecutors say that the guard was attacked by police and Mr Yousaf ’s bodyguard - when he refused to allow Mr Yousaf ’s wife into the bakery to buy a cake because it had just closed.

•DENIAL Sharad Pawar

Top minister denies land fraud charge A SENIOR Indian minister has denied charges that he and his family acquired land illegally in a privately built hill station city in Maharashtra.

Farm minister Sharad Pawar said the state government had followed rules in giving land to the Lavasa hill city.

Earlier activist YP Singh alleged that authorities had sold the land cheaply to the builders, in which Mr Pawar’s daughter and son-in-law held shares.

Lavasa is reportedly India’s “largest urban infrastructure project”.

The company’s website describes the project as “India’s first planned hill city” - it said that the city was spread over 25,000 acres, including seven hills, and boasted 60km (37 miles) of a lake-front area.

Both men strenuously deny the allegations.

•NO CHARGE MP Rahul Gandhi

•TALKING TERMS Manmohan Singh and Julia Gillard discuss uranium sales to India

INDO-AUS NUCLEAR TALKS AUSTRALIAN PM Julia Gillard is holding talks with Indian counterpart Manmohan Singh on the sale of uranium to India for its nuclear power programme.

Last December Ms Gillard’s ruling Labor party overturned its longstanding ban on exporting uranium to India.

Australia, which holds an estimated 40% of the world’s uranium, already exports it to China, Japan, Taiwan and the US. The country does not sell uranium to India because it is not a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

Ms Gillard has said she expects discussions on uranium sales to India to last one to two years, reports say.

“We have changed our party policy so that there is now no fetter for us on selling uranium to India,” Ms Gillard told reporters on Tuesday, mid-way through her three-day visit.

“The thing that would have to happen next is the negotiation of a comprehensive civil nuclear cooperation agreement.”

Ms Gillard is also expected to hold meetings with Indian President Pranab Mukherjee and senior government ministers in Delhi on Wednesday.

The Australian prime minister’s visit is aimed at boosting economic ties between the two countries bilateral trade is worth $20bn (£12.5bn) and is growing at the rate of 20% every year.

THREE Indian navy personnel, two of them pilots, were killed after their helicopter crashed in Goa on the western coast, a navy official said.

The Chetak helicopter was on a routine sortie from Mumbai city to Bangalore in the southern state of Karnataka. It was coming in to refuel at Goa’s Dabolim airport. The rotor of the helicopter broke as it was about to land •TRAGIC The Chetak helicopter and the machine burst into flames after the crash, eyewitnesses said. was on a routine sortie

16

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

Hot in the City YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ASIAN ENTERTAINMENT

FRIEDA’S GOT THE MOVE! FRIEDA Pinto has just finished celebrating her 28th birthday.

The Hollywood hottie who landed her breakthrough role in the Oscar award-winning Slumdog Millionaire and has since graced the covers of many magazines and rubbed shoulders with Hollywood’s elite all before the age of 30.

She has now teamed up with internationally renowned dancer and choreographer Akram Khan for Desert Dancer. The film is based on a true story set in Iran, where dance is illegal and punishable by prison - DESERT DANCER is the incredible true story of Afshin Ghaffarian who risks everything to fight for his

dreams. The story follows Afshin as he hacks into YouTube (also banned in Iran) and teaches himself how to dance by watching music videos - everything from Michael Jackson and Bob Fosse to Pina Bausch, Rudolf Nureyev and Mikhail Baryshnikov.

With YouTube as his teacher, Afshin starts an underground dance company at university with his friends. As their skills develop the group put on a secret dance performance deep in the desert.

Their story plays out against the 2009 protests, when the passion and defiance of a young generation lit the flame of revolution still sweeping the Middle East and North Africa.

The movie is expected to be released early next year.

e: sohail@asiancity.co.uk

New romance HAVING recently returned from the shores of Bollywood, Canadian turned Brit actress Armeena Khan will be seen starring opposite British filmmaker Rafi Usmaan Raja in Love … It’s Never Easy.

It’s the filmmaker’s first lighthearted short film and tells the story of a small town boy from Bradford and a big city girl from Birmingham and is a love story everyone will be able to relate to.

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IF YOU are from the generation that watched Kabaddi every weekend on Channel 4 in the early 90s then we have great news for you. Kabaddi is now coming to a theatre near you.

Kabaddi Kabaddi Kabaddi is a gripping new drama about sport, nationhood and belonging with a haunting love story at its heart. From the red dust of the Punjab to the London Olympic stadium, this intense new drama explores Kabaddi and its place on the world stage. Against a backdrop of Indian revolutionary fervour, two players compete for a place in the team for the 1936 Berlin Olympics and for the love of Azadeh, a freedom fighter and outcast with a troubled past. In London 2012, their descendants risk everything to play for gold.

But can they ever break free from their past?

The play will start Starting off in Colchester on November 8th and will tour Cambridge, Wolverhampton and Birmingham before coming to London on December 4th.

Hollywood’s Indian myth HOLLYWOOD actress Halle Berry says the plot of her upcoming film ‘Cloud Atlas’, which revolves around the subject of reincarnation, resembles elements of Indian mythology.

“Most of the main characters are the reincarnations of the same soul through the six stories shown in the movie,” Berry said in a statement.

“It almost resembles the Indian mythology so much; where there was Lord Rama, who came as the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu and then there were many others. Very few people have explored such themes in Hollywood,” she added.

Berry has also draped a traditional Indian sari for a scene in the movie, which talks about how actions and consequences of lives impact one another throughout the •HOT Halle Berry poses in sari past, present and future.

BHASKAR’S BACK!

FUNNYMAN Sanjeev Bhaskar has officially come on board for Terry Gilliam’s The Zero Theorem.

Gilliam revealed via facebook that Matt Damon, Peter Storemare along with Bhaskar have officially come aboard his existential feature. But it hasn’t been made clear what role Bhaskar will be playing.

The Zero Theorem tells the story of a computer hacker whose goal of discovering the reason for human existence is continually interrupted thanks to the ‘Management’.

•PROTEST Reema Sharma

NAKED FOR FARE CAUSE

Student of the Year launch THIS weekend there is just one film the industry is talking about; Karan Johar’s Student Of The Year.

Known for his mega hits starring the biggest stars in Bollywood, this is the first time that Karan has worked with newcomers and teamed up with distributors Eros International.

In an exclusive interview with Asiana.TV, Karan said about the new challenges he faced as a director.

He admitted: ‘When you’re working with big stars you hardly have to do anything, but working with people who’ve never been in front of the camera before makes it more challenging for me, at times I did feel like I was their father but they also taught me some new things too.’

The film centres on the students of one of the most stylish schools in India and sees friendships tested and hearts broken as the whole school competes to win the title of Student Of The Year.

The two male leads came to Karan’s attention, when they both

worked with him as Assistant Directors on My Name is Khan.

He explained: ‘The two of them used to stand in for Kajol and Shah Rukh and I knew then that they both looked great on camera and that they had what it takes to become stars.’ One of them Varun Dhawan is the son of film director David Dhawan, famous for comedies like Partner while Sidarth Malhotra has no filmi links, and used to be a model. The leading actress is Alia Bhatt, daughter of Jism director Mahesh Bhatt.

A self-confessed Bollywood addict Karan believes she was born for the role. He said: ‘When Alia came in and danced I could tell she had wanted to perform all her life, she had something about her…though she was a little plump. I knew if she lost weight then she could be a star and her proudest achievement was that not only did she slim down for the role, she also wears a bikini in the film.’

Student Of The Year is on national release.

WE HAVE all seen Poonam Pandey, Sherlyn Chopra and Veena Malik strip for publicity. Now it was the turn of modelturned actress Reema Sharma but all for a very noble cause. She stripped naked to protest in price hike in fare of taxi and auto-rickshaw fares in Mumbai.

“I was contacted for a photoshoot for an awareness campaign against the large number of tampered fare metres being used by the taxis and auto rickshaws in Mumbai” said Reema.

“I have absolutely no qualms about posing nude for this shoot as it is a major issue, affecting thousands of commuters and passengers in Mumbai with a few thousand auto and taxi drivers holding the entire city to ransom with their threats to go on strike,” Reema stated.

I wish we could see a British Asian actresses stripping down in protest for the hike in London Transport fares every year!!!

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

17

ON THE HOT SEAT: ADIL OMAR When men are upset, why do they go and get wasted with their friends instead of opening up to their girlfriends or wives?

I don’t know, I don’t drink or get wasted, nor have I been in a serious enough relationship or had too many problems with girls. When I do have issues and get upset, I write songs and focus on what’s productive.

But when it comes to other men, I guess it has to do with ego issues.

Why do men never listen?

Why do these questions sound like they’re coming from a bitter and brokenhearted woman?

Relax, not all men are that bad!

Why do men leave their mouldy socks festering on the floor?

You’re talking about boys.

There’s a difference between men and boys.

Why don’t men bother to groom themselves while women have to tart themselves up?

A lot of men do bother to groom. You’ve clearly been very unlucky.

What irritates you about women the most?

If I were to generalize, then it would have to be their insecurities.

Why do blokes never call when they say they are going to?

I can’t speak for other guys. I generally don’t call and I don’t

•’MEN DO LISTEN’ Rapper Adil Omar even say I’m going to. If I say I will then I’ll pursue it.

When women ask you what you’re thinking and you say ‘nothing’ … is it true?

I never say “nothing”. That would be an insult to not only her intelligence but also my own. My mind is an exciting place and I always have plenty to share.

Men enjoy sport because secretly they like the idea of playing with each other.

Discuss …

No, I think it honestly has to do with competition and releasing stress. I personally never had an interest in sport. I work out and take care of myself but that’s my alone time to think

and reflect as well.

Is it possible for a man to be faithful?

Sure.

If you were married and your dream girl offered you a one night stand, could you resist?

Shouldn’t I be married to my dream girl?

Who should make the first move?

I’m old fashioned. I think men should. However, if a woman wants a man she needs let it be known. No mixed signals. I have a planet to conquer and I’m tight on time.

Should women rule the world?

No. Both men and women should work together.

18

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

BOLLYWOOD

ARJUN RAMPS IT UP! Asian City’s Sunny Malik interrogates Chakravyuh star ARJUN Rampal plays the role of Superintendent Adil Khan, who works for the Indian Police Service, in Prakash Jha’s latest political thriller Chakravyuh.

The actor spoke to Sunny Malik about the film and its premiere at the London Film Festival.

PRI’S PIVOTAL ROLE YASH Raj Films have announced that Priyanka Chopra will play a pivotal role in forthcoming project, titled, Gunday.

After the success of Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, director Ali Abbas Zafar is ready to take the helm with his next YRF project. The film will star Ranveer Singh and Arjun Kapoor in the lead male roles.

This is Priyanka’s second film and both Ranveer and Arjun’s third film with the YRF banner and it is the first time that all three actors will come together.

Were you thrilled that Chakravyuh was screened at the London Film Festival?

I was super thrilled. I have wonderful fans in London and I was very proud that a film like Chakryavuh had a gala premiere at the London Film Festival. The film is very close to my heart and I glad that my London fans got to see it first.

You’ve had a lot of Premieres in London for your films. Why is the UK so special for you?

The UK is a huge market for Bollywood films. Whenever I come to London, I always get a very warm reception and fans have been extremely affectionate. I know the UK audience always looks forward for something new and different.

Even Rajneeti was very well received here. You cannot ignore the UK market. It’s too big to ignore.

Kareena Kapoor recently told us that UK audiences mainly like family films and loves stories.

What’s your point of view?

That is true. But Chakravyuh is a film that you can watch with your family as well. It’s entertaining, emotional and about friendship. It is about an issue every Indian should be aware about. It’s a drama that is entertaining and wholesome. It’s a very commercial film but not a love story, even though it has certain love angles within the story. But I think, the audience is also changing and they want to see films that are different and new. They want to see films for which you bring your whole anatomy intact and not leave your brains at home.

The action in the film is quite realistic!

Yes, it is. We had to keep it realistic.

There is no cable work, people hitting each other and people spinning hundreds of times before falling down. It is exactly how it happens in real life and very sudden. That keeps the film very real and edgy.

A song for Amir A SPECIAL song has been shot for forthcoming Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor starrer Talaash.

Directed by Reema Kagti, the song Muskaane Jhoothi Hain has been shot to raise the anticipation among the audiences, said a source.

The film will mark the coming together of the producers and Aamir after 11 years since the 2001 release Dil Chahta Hai. Aamir Khan plays inspector Surjan Singh Shekhawat who is given the task of solving a case. The film also stars Rani Mukherji who was recently seen in Aiyyaa.

Dialogues in Prakash Jha films are usually hard to understand without subtitles?

If people don’t understand them, I am sure they can read the subtitles.

It’s not very hard to read them.

However, I think if you are coming to watch a Hindi film you should be familiar with the language.

Sometimes, when I watch an English film, even I don’t understand certain words but it teaches you and you learn from it.

The flavour of the language in this film is from the region it is set in which is pure Hindi. They speak very well but what is important that they create the flavour and the mode of the film. If the characters start speaking anglocised Hindi, I don’t think the NRI audience will like that very much.

What other films are you currently working on?

I have just completed a film with Sudhir Mishra called Inkaar with Chitrangada Singh, which will be out in January. I am shooting with Nikhil Advani for an action film. I

think it is the first time he is making an action film. I am quite excited about that because I am training with Tom Struthers who cocoordinated the action sequences in The Dark Knight, Inception and Blood Diamond. Working with him is really going to be something special. I have another film, which I will shoot after Nikhil’s film called Villain and then back to Prakash Jha for Satyagraha, which will also star Ajay Devgn and Kareena Kapoor.

When can we see you produce a film again?

I have a lot of scripts ready for production. Producing a film is definitely going to be another extension of myself. I am being selfish as an actor right now and doing the kind of roles that I want to do. Hopefully, by mid next year I will take a backseat and produce a film because I know that it is required.

• Chakravyuh is released in UK cinemas October 24th.

RISKY RANI BIBI RANI Mukherji has admitted that her film Aiyyaa was a risk as audiences are not used to this kind of cinema.

Directed by National Award winning director Sachin Kundalkar, it sees the 34-year-old actress as a Pune-based Marathi girl Meenakshi Deshpande whose parents want to her to get married. But she falls in love with a Tamil painter as she is attracted by his body odour.

“Aiyyaa was one such risk that I took because not only the script is whacked-out, but also the filmmaking style that Sachin adapted was very different to what our Hindi audience are used to watching,” she told IANS. However the actress is confident

that from young girls to grandmothers everyone will be able to relate to the film.

“I am not talking about just a section of people in the city. When you see pan India, every girl wants to be independent and make her choice in terms of a life partner.

Unfortunately, some girls don’t have the liberty to make that choice because they are burdened with the thought that this is what they have to follow,” said Rani.

“Not only young girls, but mothers and grandmothers, who have been through this situation in their lives, will relate to my character,” she added.

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

19

BOLLYWOOD

Anupam moves to Leicester VETERAN actor Anupam Kher has begun shooting for Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 in the UK and is excited about working with the Deols, Dharmendra, Sunny and Bobby. The 57-year-old actor earlier tweeted that he will travelling to Leicester to join the Deols for the film.

Anupam played a key role in the first instalment of the romantic comedy, which released in 2011. The sequel directed by Sangeeth Sivan is being extensively shot in the UK. Kher also shot portions of Jab Tak Hai Jaan in London and Surrey with Yash Chopra earlier this year.

JOIN THE DEOL QUEUE

New moves for Sunny INDO-Canadian, porn star turned actress Sunny Leone has definitely caught the Bollywood fever it seems. After debuting in Pooja Bhatt’s Jism 2 Sunny has now started learning Bollywood dance moves.

“I am learning Bollywood dance from Shabina Khan”, Sunny told IANS in an interview. “I love Bollywood dance moves and am craving to learn them”.

When asked if she was open to item numbers. Sunny said: “As I said, I love dancing. I would love to do an item number, but I have signed a contract, so I can’t do any item numbers for the time being. But I am looking forward to doing typical Bollywood dance numbers.”

She will be next seen in Ragini MMS 2 and has been signed on for a further three films by a company in Mumbai.

THE Deols are having a ball at the ‘Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 shoot in UK. While the director Sangeeth Sivan, who recently turned a year older, has already attuned himself to the Punjabi culture, the rest of the cast and crew is having a blast over there.

Needless to say, Sunny Deol too wants to have his share of excitement. The actor was recently spotted on the sets of the film, the sequel to ‘Yamla Pagla Deewana’, driving around in a beautiful, bright yellow Lamborghini. Sunny dutifully completed the shot which required him to take the car out for a spin. However, once the shot was canned, Sunny was up to his antics.

The actor was trying to break one of the scissor doors of this swanky car, much to the amusement of the crew. We’re sure that Deol, who is known to be a passionate lover of cars, must only be fooling around. We don’t think Sunny will ever have the heart to damage a Lamborghini! Anyway, the rest of the cast and the crew had a field day talking about the incident.

So, the fun and games continue on the sets of ‘Yamla Pagla Deewana 2�!

Hearing about the crazy times that the unit is having on the sets, one wonders how hilarious is the film going to be!

‘Yamla Pagla Deewana 2’, stars Dharmendra, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol alongwith Neha Sharma, Kristina Akheeva, Anupam Kher, Johnny Lever, Anu Kapoor and Sucheta Khanna.

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Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

FEATURE

MAN HUNT

Tis most definitely not the time to be lonely.

While everyone else seems to have a partner to go out with, it’s time to go hunting IT’S A jungle out there alright. Everywhere you gaze, herds are huddled together; giving chase or taking shelter, hunting in packs or looking out for number one – everyone in their own place, doing what they do to survive. And then there’s you.

Sitting alone, watching all that animal magic at play on the Discovery Channel.

want one, you have no idea how to go about netting yourself one. You’ve got the hunger, but have you got the know-how to hook your claws into the one that will satisfy? For a start, stop with the negative thinking. A hunter cannot allow room for doubt; one misfire of cupid’s arrow and all your preparation is wasted, leaving your Romeo bleeding. The trick to getting your intended in the heart and not on his nerves is to know exactly what you’re hunting. What kind of man are you dealing Enough of being the prey, waiting for someone with here? What are the strengths you should be to pounce on you. In the dating jungle, you only looking out for, weaknesses you can play on?

With spear and net at the ready, here’s your get what you want when you’re prepared to be the predator. See what you want, zone in on it, then go failsafe guide to what’s for grabs in the wild outback. Remember: be the hunter. Patient, for the kill.

But you’ve been single so long, it’s almost as focused, unafraid. Only then can you ensure you’ll though you’ve forgotten the catches that are out find a wild animal to party with, rather than a beast there, just waiting for you to reel them in. Even that lies in wait for you.

Time to practice your aim ladies… worse if you’ve never had a man and now that you

ON THE PROWL What animal best describes the huntress in you?

BUTTERFLY: She looks so gentle when she flits by, but in reality she’s carefree and doesn’t mind who she lands on. The butterfly makes an impact wherever she goes, but if she doesn’t get what she’s looking for, she’ll happily move on

VIXEN: Each hunt is a game of strategy for this scheming huntress. The thrill of the chase is her main preoccupation; she’ll devise all sorts of ways to ensnare a victim - whether it be a kinky brush up against the knee or a full on lip lock.

CAT: Independent and sensual, the cat is the ultimate girl predator. She lingers in the shadows, her gaze locked on the unsuspecting prey. With a sexy swagger and self assured approach, she’ll get her claws into a man in no time.

BLACK WIDOW SPIDER: She’s a man eater - a mistress of seduction, who’ll lure prey into a web of deceit and then have her wicked way with them. She takes a man for all he’s got without one shred of remorse, because let’s face it, remorse is for the weak!

DEER: With those large doe eyes she looks so vulnerable that she needs protection from the big bad world. But rest assured a deer can hold her own. Her placid looks are deceiving - she’s far more discerning when it comes to choosing her protector than you think.

CHAMELEON: Her rule states that variety is the spice of life. So whenever she enters the hunting ground, her victims are kept guessing. But don’t expect her to hang around whilst you try. If the hunt doesn’t go her way she’ll change tactics and go elsewhere.

RABBIT: As a playful type, men will be rushing over to her because she’s so damn adorable. Like a breath of fresh spring air, men will do all they can to keep a hold of her.

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

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FEATURE Lion

Animal Magnetism: Noble and proud, his cool exterior just oozes masculinity. His mates look up to him and in turn he sees them as his crew. He’s fearless and eager to prove his worth in any given situation-just so long as it shows him in a good light.

Prey Potential: There’s no beating about the bush with the king of the jungle. Once you’re in his line of vision, you need to go in for the kill and get to the point. Eye contact is key, focus on him and let him know you’re ready to engage in a battle of domination.

Sting in the tail: Lions are a lazy species, who expect you to make all the effort. His staunch pride won’t let on that he likes you, so a bit demanding as preys go. In the end no matter how much you’ve conquered him, the lion wants all the credit. So at the closing of your hunt, you’ll have to admit it was all his doing, it was him that got you!

Monkey

Animal Magnetism: Life’s pretty chilled for the simians as they swing from branch to branch.

They’re the cheeky playful guys, cracking the jokes leaving their audiences in fits of laughter.

You just can’t help but want to be near them.

Prey Potential: His mates respect the joker in him, so you need to muster all your energy for this target. Smile, let him know that you find him funny – some playful banter will get him interested. He likes being challenged and rest assured your ability to joke will determine how much he is willing to be won over.

Sting in the tail: Behind the japes and laid-back attitude, he treasures being the centre of attention.

This means he doesn’t take too kindly to competition. What’s more if the joke is at his expense, he’s bound to turn his tail up at and leave you as the only one laughing in the crowd.

Elephant

Animal Magnetism: Introducing the strong but silent type. Whilst all his mates are engaged in locker room talk, he smiles, but never adds to the smut. That’s because behind that manly front lies a gentle soul attuned to the needs of his herd.

He’s a faithful chap who won’t forget the things that matter to those most important in his life.

Prey Potential: Be sensitive towards this target, he’s more complex than you think. He gets scared off by powerful people, so gentle persuasion is your best bet. Make your approach subtle: sit or stand next to him, then with a warm smile, start a conversation - open with a friendly passing comment – innuendo proof!

Sting in the tail: The more emotional a mammal, the more likely to wind up netting a wet blanket who could bore you to death. The little details he picks up on will drive you insane and it’s only a matter of time before paranoia puts the final nail in the coffin.

Cobra

Animal Magnetism: This guy is cool, suave, calculating and plays his cards close to his chest.

He’s dark and mysterious and quite a challenge to hunt down. But with an expert he’s one of the most receptive preys out in the urban jungle.

Prey Potential: Hypnotise him - he responds to sexy movement and rhythm. As in the wild, cobras dance with their chosen partners before mating. So the best place to spear a him is on the dance floor. Keep him transfixed from a distance and then draw him in. You’re in control here so enjoy the power whilst he turns putty in your hands.

Sting in the tail: Once under your spell tread carefully - make sure you don’t do anything to rattle his cage. If you rub him up the wrong way he’ll snap out of his hypnotic state and bite back.

With those cobra fangs you wouldn’t want to be too close when that happens!

Eagle

Animal Magnetism: A most regal member of the prey kingdom, this graceful prey stands alone scouring the room for the one target who will satisfy his needs. He’s very choosy and waits for the right moment to go up to someone.

Prey Potential: You need to be one step ahead of this one. He’s at his most vulnerable when alone and in deep thought. First catch his eye, but don’t do anything. For a few more minutes keep flirting with his line of vision. And when he can’t take his watchful eyes off you, swoop down on him - he won’t even struggle to fight free!

Sting in the Tail: Eagles don’t like their feathers being tied down, so no clingyness with him once you’re in face to face conversation. They’re also a bit temperamental- don’t be surprised if you find he’s suddenly changed his mind and walks off.

Bat

Animal Magnetism: This private-looking animal prefers romance in a cosy secluded place as opposed to a quick fumble behind a tree. Night is when he comes alive, flitting to wherever there lies an opportunity to soak up the moonlight vibe.

Prey Potential: This species responds to sound like no other. Whether he’s at a live gig, club or even at a mate’s party, you’ll see him singing along often accompanied by some air-guitar. Once music is in the air, he’s lost in it. So your line of attack is to get in there with him shouting out song lyrics and generally jamming to the tunes.

Sting in the tail: Careful when dabbling too long with a bat man. Although he’s a private romantic, there’s a bit of a dark side to him. True he’d prefer a private session with you, but that’s so he can be more full-on with you. Picture leaving his cave covered in sore love bites – yuck!

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Piranha

Animal Magnetism: This guy is up for a fight, no matter where. If someone insults him or his mates he’ll be the first to initiate the attack. He’s got balls because he says things that no-one would dare. He’ll debate issues during a lunch break, on the street, or at his best mate’s stag do. His nearest and dearest might call him a liability, but his sheer fearlessness is admirable by anyone’s standards.

Prey Potential: They say a good argument clears the air, but with this kind of prey it pushes his exact buttons. Pick a non-serious fight/debate with him and don’t hold back - be confident and balshy - he’ll admire the way you’re not afraid to put your view across.

Sting in the tail: Just imagine having an opinion on almost everything…that’s the pitfall of a piranha. What is one moment a meaty discussion, the next is a tiring battle of wills. You’ll find those razor sharp arguments too much to handle and it won’t be long until you’re sick at the sound of each other.

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22

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

MUSIC

ROACH ROCKS INDIA Killa kills it in Mumbai

His performance rocked the crème-de la crème of the Indian music industry. In attendance were, Asha Bhosle, AR Rehman, Sonu Nigam, Anu Malik, Mika Singh, Shankar Mahadevan, Alka Yagnik, Salim Sulaiman, and special Bollywood guests, Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgun, Saif Ali Khan, Sonakshi Sinha, Vidya Balan and Parineeti Chopra.

“That was probably one of the best experiences I have ever had. To perform in front of an industry that has inspired me since I was a kid was truly humbling, I couldn’t believe the reaction and everyone was so friendly, nice and encouraging. I was blown away when I saw Shah Rukh Khan’s name on the dressing room opposite mine and Sonu Nigam’s was next door!”

Roach said after his performance.

Exciting times lie ahead for this music maestro as he prepares to take his music to other lands near and far. More details coming soon…

• www.roachkilla.com

•MAGIC Hamid Ali

NEW MAAN IN TOWN

QAWWALI-TY CONTROL QAWWALI fever has certainly caught on amongst the young British Asian artists. Already with the likes of Sufi Touch, Shahid Khan and Ali Abbas, meet newcomer Hamid Ali who is all set to embark on his musical journey with the release of his debut single Jadoo. Inspired by the traditional sounds, Hamid combines his Western upbringing and influences with traditional classical Qawwali music.

“I grew up listening to the sounds of Qawwali. From a young age, I learnt how to sing some of the famous songs of the late Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. To me he is the most iconic Qawwal in the world. I hope one day my music and my voice can reach out to the extent his did. I’m very excited about my first release Jadoo to start my journey and hope the British Asian community will support me along the way. My aim in the next couple of years is for my voice to be heard in Bollywood.”

In the last two years, Qawwali music has continued to broaden it’s reach to the mass South Asian community around the world. In the UK, the sounds of Qawwali is most common amongst the world music circuit, through the continued presence of the works of the late great Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and is now a immensely popular sound in contemporary Bollywood music, after the global hits of Rahat Fateh Ali Khan.

HARD KAUR COMES OUT TO P.L.A.Y

FOR all Bhangra lovers across the globe, meet Junior Maan. He was born to sing but took some time to realise it!

The Birmingham based artist began his life in the music industry as a lyricist. With numerous songs under his belt, this Punjabi poet has been supplying the words for some huge hits including DJ Sanj (Chugliyan) and Miss Pooja (Lak De Hullare) amongst others.

Although he has been singing since the age of 16, it wasn’t until very recently that he bowed under the pressure from family and friends and grabbed the microphone to record professionally. Employing the musical genius of Bee2 led to the birth of his debut single Hasdi.

Raised on a varied musical diet, his influences stretch across a number of genres from folk to dance and some of his biggest influences have been the likes of Master Saleem, Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Babbu Maan.

Junior spends much of his time listening to and learning from different styles of music and as a professional Harmonium player, he attempts to use his instruments to delicately fuse together these new sounds with more traditional beats. Keep your ears open for more news on Junior Maan, he’ll be coming to a venue near you!

• Twitter: @TheJuniorMaan www.FaceBook.com/JuniorMaan

BRITISH Indian rapper Taran Dhillon Kaur or popularly known amongst the masses as Hard Kaur is finally back with her second album P.L.A.Y (Party Loud All Year) after a five-year break.

Launched last week, the album features other artistes including Mika, D-Boy and Bhangra sensation Lehmber Hussainpuri.

Her debut album in 2007, Supawoman, spoke about freedom whereas P.L.A.Y will now bring out the party animal in you, with numbers such as Mujhe Peene Do, Boyfriend and Desi Dance with Eminem’s band D12.

Picture: Rafyl

HE IS one of the most talented artists in the music industry today, Mumbai finally got its first taste of Roach Killa. The Canadian star travelled to India for the first time in his life to perform at the Indian equivalent of the Grammys - ‘Global Indian Music Academy Awards’ (GIMA).

And the winner is...

THOUSANDS of fans gathered in Birmingham for one of the most exiciting events on the musical calender; the Brit Asia TV Music Awards. Featuring live performances, and special guests the atmosphere was electric as the stars took to the stage to take home a trophy. Hosted by Hardeep Kohli, it was a night of tears and laughter, and not just thanks to Hardeep’s jokes. The highlight of the evening was two moving tributes to the late late Kuldeep Manak and Kuly RDB. The crown prince of Bhangra Jazzy B and the legendary Manmohan Waris entertained the crowd as always, but the most successful artist of the night was Dr Zeus who won three awards!

Asian network goes classical NEXT month will see the BBC Philharmonic and BBC Asian Network collaborating for the first time ever in a celebration of the life and songs of fabled Pakistani singers Noor Jehan, Musarrat Nazir, Reshma and Nazia Hasan.

Presented by Noreen Khan and Tommy Sandhu, the concert will take place at the ALCC in the heart of Bradford.

International artists Shazia Manzoor and Qurat-ul-Ain Baloch (known as QB) will take to the stage with the 80-piece orchestra to perform some legendary Pakistani classics. The orchestra will also be accompanied by traditional musicians performing Punjabi folk songs, ghazals and film classics.

Mark Strippel, Head of Programmes for Asian Network says: “This collaboration with the BBC Phil is exciting new territory for Asian Network – to present music that our listeners will have grown up with, performed by some of South Asia’s leading contemporary singers with one of the UK’s leading classical orchestras is an exciting and extraordinary event.

“It’s also a brilliant chance to take Asian Network out on the road to the very heart of our listening community to forge new connections, inspire young people through our school visits and masterclasses, and build lasting relationships with the people that

matter: our audience.”

In the run up to the concert, Noreen Khan will talk to both Shazia Manzoor and QB about their careers, their route to music and forthcoming projects. Shazia first hit the headlines in the late 90s with Aaja Sohneya, which went on to become one of the biggest tracks in the British Asian music industry, dominating charts worldwide. QB has been described by some as a ‘breath of fresh air’ with her fusion of Sufi, folk and pop, drawing inspiration from artists as varied as Rahat Fateh Ali Khan to Adele.

Tickets to the concert and ‘In Conversation’ are free but have to be booked in advance. Available through bbc.co.uk/asiannetwork.

•ON STAGE Qurat-ul-Ain Baloch (QB)

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

23

MUSIC

INTENSO’S COMEBACK New single after 10 years

INTENSO is a name you may not be currently familiar with on the British Asian music scene.

He is an MC who has worked with some of the industry’s finest in the early 2000’s.

After a long career break, Intenso now returns with his first slice of action in 2012 with the single Thenu Thakia, produced by non other than, Rishi Rich and features the Punjabi vocals of Bobby, an artist who was regarded a breakthrough act a decade ago.

“Thenu Thakia is an exciting new release for me. I’ve taken my own sweet time in coming back to the music scene but it’s been well worth the wait. I’m making music, which is current and with some of the biggest names around on one of the biggest Asian labels. Rishi Rich has produced an amazing track and I decided to collaborate with a singer who I worked with all those years ago. Bobby, or Bobby Akhiyan as he’s now known, is an immensely talented singer whose vocals shine on Thenu Thakia and I hope everyone enjoys this song as much as I did making it.”

Intenso creates a mellow fire and fusion on Thenu Thakia, blending his lyrical flow with the trademark Desi sounds of Rishi Rich and Punjabi chorus from Bobby. The trio, combine to great effect, ensuring Thenu Thakia is a song which Asian music lovers of all ages can connect with.

TASHA ON TOUR FOLLOWING on from the success of her last single, Haan De Munde released early this year, Tasha Tah also known as the ‘first lady’ of the Stranger Family is back with her new single, Malang.

Having collaborated with Raool, they will be seen performing Malang live next month during the XOXO World Tour. The tour will showcase live music (including new material) from popular British Asian Collective ‘Stranger Family’ (Mumzy Stranger, Tasha Tah, Char Avell & Ramee) and internationally acclaimed South Asian supergroup ‘Culture Shock’ (DJ Baba Kahn, Lomaticc & Sunny Brown), who are hot footing it from Canada to join the party. The tour will also showcase new act ‘Raool’ (D.Wunder & Macks Wolf)

24

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

FASHION

High Fashion Bridalwear & Islamicwear at Jaan BRIDES-TO-BE looking for next year’s must-have wedding wardrobe should head down to Southall’s legendary boutique Jaan.

Designer Bubli Malik, a pioneer of Asian fashion for more than 20 years, has unveiled his new Bridalwear Collection featuring elaborate gowns with a western theme, along with a host of new but traditional cuts.

“Brides are becoming more demanding in their choice of wedding outfit,’ says Bubli. ‘This is great news for us as we love the challange of creating new pieces that reflect the fashion choices of the young woman of today. This includes the use of traditional embroidery with very English cuts, including ballgown style outfits.’

Jaan have led the fashion market in highly styled outfits that allow the wearer to keep with tradition and a sense of modesty.

Bubli’s daughter and co-designer Rabia Malik has also unveiled a new

•TALENT Jaan designer Bubli Malik with his daughter Rabia Malik range of Islamic-inspired clothing for special occasions and weddings.

• Jaan 8 The Broadway, Southall.

020 8606 9800

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

25

FASHION

26

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

27

WEDDINGS

Seasonal pickings SUMMER will never fully be usurped by autumn as the wedding season of choice, but judging by the fierce floral palettes of rich burgundies, smouldering indigos and fiery reds, it’s hardly surprising that an increasing number of brides are choosing the darker months for more visually dramatic celebrations. And you’ve certainly picked the right season for it!

How to make nature’s gifts bloom for your wedding day

and arrangements. Autumn and winter weddings can be just as beautiful, it’s just a question of reworking the themes.’

Think rich colours when selecting flowers for the autumn season, such as deep reds, orange, dark green, dark brown, purple, dark pinks and While flowers are primarily the gold foliage. Tiger lilies, chocolate focus on the wedding registry and and peach roses, honey suckle, ivory reception, the autumn and winter carnations, cream freesia and orange flowers are perfect for the regerbera are fabulous dotted between emerging trend towards traditional larger arrangements. For the budgetweddings, complementing the rich conscious, don’t hold back with the embroidery and warm hues apparent foliage – huge dramatic green sprays throughout the setting. budgeting, so it’s imperative that you are a must this season, and will cost With theming and colour co- consult your florist before settling on considerably less than flowers. ordination becoming de rigeur for colour palettes.

Ethereal romance defines the more even the simplest wedding, it’s crucial Silla from Illusion Flowers is an subtle winter weddings, which allow to pick arrangements that reflect the expert on floral theming and advises: for the inclusion of paler flowers, mood of the weather as well as your ‘Seeing as autumn colour palettes are which, when sprinkled amongst wedding. For instance, berries are a very similar to traditional colours for darker blooms, can be used for both wonderful addition to any Asian weddings, it’s perfect for going registry and religious ceremonies. arrangement because they define back to the classics. And even if you Whether you choose autumn or your Big Day by its season, creating a don’t want to go for a traditional winter as the setting for your Big poetic impact while remaining fairly wedding, other flowers in similar Day, the season’s trend is clear: keep inexpensive. It’s easy to get lost in a hues, like orchids and lilies are it, like your marriage, bold, beautiful quagmire of flower names and brilliant for contemporary bouquets and full of passion.

BOUQUET

Although most bouquets are constructed using roses, incorporate blooms that look distinctively different. In this instance, Silla has used calla lilies, germini and listinthus to break up the red roses. She suggests: ‘Brides prefer to go for block colours for their bouquets so in this, aubergine and red work wonders. If you want to customise it, you can even wrap personalised ribbon around the stem.’

CORSAGE

Corsages are a fairly new introduction into traditional weddings. Despite their high-school ball connotations, it’s a novel way of dressing up a simple registry outfit or adding deeper colour and verve to a heavy bridal dress. Fabulous alternatives to bangles, corsages are best complemented by flowers in the hair. Silla points out: ‘If you don’t feel comfortable wearing it, you can recommend it to your bridesmaids.’

Friendly and affordable service for all occasions.

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28

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

BEAUTY LONG LASTING LASHES

FOREVER YOUNG

IT’S NEVER too early to start looking after your skin. Even if you’re blessed with good genes, it’s worth investing in a skincare regime that will protect, enhance and encourage your natural beauty.

Buying a cream with the words ‘Age Defying’ may feel a little scary, but reassuringly it usually means the product is packed with extra goodness to really care for you and your face.

The new range by Earth Science Naturals takes investing in the future of your skin to new levels.

A popular brand in California, they use natural ingredients to halt the signs of ageing including Grapefruit Seed Extract and Citric Acid and combine them with a unique blend of antioxidents and soothing botanicals, leaving you with a healthy glow.

The range includes a gorgeous, softly Whipped Cream Cleanser (£15.99), Refreshing Nutrient Toner Elixir (£14.49) and a silky Hydrating Day Cream packed with vitamin E, soy, Kola Nut and liquorice (£20.99).

• Earth Sciene Naturals products are available in health food shops.

Skin Philosophy IT CAN be tricky finding the right skincare, but Philosophy have decided to make it a little easier.

Their Great Skin Is In Gift Set, £55, has all you need to keep skin happy and healthy. With a onestep cleanser, retinol night treatment and their classic moisturiser, Hope In A Jar, not only will you be protected against premature ageing, but you’ll also have a modelworthy glow in no time.

• www.philosophyskincare.co.uk

WHAT IS IT? Flutter Eyelash Extensions If you’re feeling undressed in the eyelash department this lash enhancing technique promises a fuller, longer and sexier flutter.

LASTS FOR: Six weeks WHAT’S INVOLVED? This hour long technique uses lashes made from a soft and naturally curved synthetic material, which look identical to the real thing.

Each false lash is individually bonded onto your own using a special glue. The lashes are intricately layered to achieve the desired effect. They stay put until your lashes fall out naturally – that’s up to eight weeks, if you follow the aftercare instructions. They are strong enough to withstand showering, swimming and even wedding day tears.

TESTER SAYS: ‘It took ages, but the results are great. My lashes look long and full and there’s no need for mascara – what’s not to like?

From £140 for a full set www.fluttereyes.co.uk.

STAYING POWER

Not everyone has the luxury of running back and forth to the beauty salon. What you need are long-lasting treatments.

THE COMPLEXION PERFECTOR

WHAT IS IT? Simontherapie Collagen Restructuring Masque If you want dull, dry and ageing skin to appear baby-like, then this high-tech facial is for you.

LASTS FOR: Up to three months WHAT’S INVOLVED? During this half an hour session, skin is prepped with a mild exfoliating potion of citric, boric, tartric and ascorbic acids. Next, a warm, electronically-powered rubber mask with tiny filaments – designed to deliver electric currents to the skins deeper layers is placed on the face. The heat from the mask and its ionothermic action, combined with the acid blend does a brilliant job at dissolving dead skin, boosting hydration and stimulating new collagen production. It ends with an application of an ice-cold gauze dipped in camphor and menthol then a face massage using a cold cream loaded with soothing ingredients.

TESTER SAYS: ‘The doctor assured me that the mild concentration of acids she uses presents no risk of secondary pigmentation, dryness or downtime associated with more aggressive glycolic peels. I was afraid of the peel part, but it was fine, just a bit tingly. My skin was glowing for weeks.’

From £145; 34 Cadogan Place, London SW1; 020 7235 0679

SMUDGE-FREE MAKE-UP

WHAT IS IT? Semi-permanent Make-up If you want to fix over-plucked brows, desire fuller lips without using injectable fillers or yearn for your small eyes to appear larger - semi-permanent make-up could be the answer to your problems.

LASTS FOR: Up to six months WHAT’S INVOLVED? As you lay back in a treatment chair, an anaesthetic cream is applied to numb the treatment area. Next, an ink-filled high-definition needle, similar to those used for tattoos, but a lot less invasive is repeatedly stroked onto the area. ‘It’s a continual blending and interblending of pigments to get the most authentic looking results’, says queen of semi-permanent make-up Debra RobsonLawrence, who has developed an ultrafine stroke technique that uses a different pigments to create bespoke shades to suit individual skin tone or eye colour.

TESTER SAYS: Our tester had her thin eyebrows done, she says: ‘It was quite uncomfortable, but not painful – no worse than getting your legs waxed. My overplucked brows now look full and fabulous.’

From £495, but prices vary depending on treatment area, see www.permanent-makeup.com or call 0845 230 2021.

PERMENANT GOOD HAIR DAY

WHAT IS IT? The Permanent Blow-dry This treatment promises ‘good hair days’ for several months. If your hair is thick, frizzy or untamable, we suggest you book

yourself in for this ASAP. Benefits include a reduction in drying time, easier manageability and superior shine.

LASTS FOR: Three months WHAT’S INVOLVED? After a thorough wash, the hair is painted, section by section, with a nourishing natural conditioner loaded with a cocktail of cocoa, red and white clay, keratin, vitamins and proteins. It is then blowdried and sealed in with hair straighteners. After treatment, there’s no need to treat your hair any differently, so colour, wash, condition and use styling products as you normally would.

TESTER SAYS: ‘I’ve tried a similar hair taming treatment that left my locks poker straight, which I hated. With this one my natural waves are still there and the hard to manage fly-aways are under control.’

From £200, call 020 7434 1747 or www.danielhersheson.com.

THE SMILE BRIGHTENER

WHAT IS IT? Wy10 Whitening Technique LASTS FOR: Two years Developed after years of research by Dr Wyman Chan, this whitening technique is designed to brighten the teeth, without the need of intrusive lasers. Girl’s Aloud are huge fans.

WHAT’S INVOLVED? As you lie back in a dentist chair and watch a DVD, a hydrogen peroxide gel is applied to the teeth. Then a warm light is used to raise the temperature in the mouth, which enhances the penetration of the bleaching gel. The temperature of the light is continuously regulated to ensure the procedure is pain-free and teeth are also monitored every ten minutes, until the desired shade is achieved.

TESTER SAYS: ‘I felt no pain and after an hour, my teeth look bright, clean and stain free.’

From £295 at www.smilestudiolondon.co.uk

THE CHIP-RESISTANT MANICURE AND PEDICURE

WHAT IS IT? The Everlasting Polish This long lasting manicure and pedicure technique is a godsend for those who have countless ceremonies ahead of them, but have limited time for nail treatments.

LASTS FOR: Up to one month WHAT’S INVOLVED? A layer of coloured gel is painted over your natural nails, which is then set under a UV lamp.

The gel leaves the nails smooth and glossy, plus there’s a choice from an array of shades. If you need a colour change to sit your outfit, the therapist can easily paint over the top of the gel.

TESTER SAYS: ‘This treatment took about an hour, so no longer than a standard manicure, but my nails stayed immaculate for weeks. Once the gel was removed it left my nails quite dry. I wouldn’t recommend it if you have weak nails.’

From £110 call 020 7529 2340 or www.nailsinc.com.

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

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BEAUTY

POWER TO THE PEEL

by ANJANA GOSAI

Firm foundations THE lastest wonder to hit the range is Stila’s new Stay All Day Foundation and Concealer, £29.50. The silky formula glides on to skin and gives a gorgeous coverage without looking thick or cakey. Not only does it stay put all day, but it comes with a concealer in the lid and a foundation brush so you can blend it to perfection.

•www.stilacosmetics.com

MODEL WATCH:: SHAHELA RANI

How did you get into modelling?

I started of with beauty pageants. I ended up participating in eight pageants in one year, then joined some casting sites agencies and started off from there.

What struggles did you initially go through to become a model?

If I sat down and noted down every casting and auditions I have ever been to till now, I would have written a novel on it. I did face a lot of rejections which was hard to accept at first but got easier over time and you have to learn to accept it’s all part of the process and not to let it deter you and to just keep on trying.

about a couple of weeks later after the audition I got a call saying I had been selected, then a few hours later I got call back saying the director has decided to cast someone else who was already living in India.

Model stereotype that frustrates you the most?

I think the height restrictions for runway frustrates me the most, I would love to do runway, but never could, as I have never met the correct height requirements.

You seem to prefer the moody look…

Most of the roles I have had to date have been emotional roles, whether it was a Modelling highlights? music video or a film, my character has Acting was always my passion and always been moody and emotional, and to modelling was a way for me to get my foot be honest I quite enjoy playing that kind of into the door. I was actually casted for a character.

Latika’s role in Slumdog Millionaire. After Is there pressure to be a size zero in the industry?

I personally don’t agree to size zero, because its not possible for everyone to become that size, every individual has a different body structure, I don’t think I can ever be a size zero as I am big boned.

How do you keep fit?

Would you believe me if I told you, once upon a time, I was a size 16? Now I’m a size 8. I believe in having a healthy lifestyle and always being active, I do regular swimming and I walk a lot. I eat often but small portions but after 7pm I don’t eat anything and if I do get very hungry then I’ll have some soup.

How image-conscious are you?

I’m not image conscious at all Dream modelling job?

I have always wanted to do a TV adverts for Coco Chanel and Garnier.

Wardrobe essentials?

Sunglasses, boots and bags. I literally have a seperate wardrobe for them.

AUTUMN has its benefits, but sadly not for skin. It’s the season when your complexion is battling with the colder, harsher climate so needs a boost to keep it looking radiant. Common complaints are breaking out in spots, looking lifeless after the change in weather, or discolouration caused after exposure to summer sun.

The good news is you don’t need to go to an expensive salon, a home-use peel is all you need to bring your face back to life. Made with potent, exfoliating acids, these gentle peels, can quickly transform even the most lacklustre and troublesome skin.

Here’s our pick of the best: Exfoliating face scrubs containing grainy particles can aggravate acne prone skin.

The Zelens PHA+ Bio-Peel Resurfacing Facial Pads (£65, spacenk.com) are suitable for even sensitive skin types.

They come pre-soaked with a gentle blend of acids, including; lactic, citric and salicylic, which work in harmony to kill spot causing bacteria, clear out pores and smooth the skin, without drying it out.

Dull skin can be perked up with the new Bliss Spa Incredi-Peel Pads (£39, blissworld.co.uk). Each pad is drenched in a spa-strength glycolic acid solution that munches away dead cells to reveal a softer, brighter and peachier complexion.

If dark spots and fine lines are a concern, try the new Ole Henriksen Lemon Strip (£35, www. selfridges.com). This one-step peel contains a powerful cocktail of lactic, glycolic and fruit acids to encourage cell turnover, smooth wrinkles and improve skin clarity.

If you’re new to peels, be sure not to over use them, as you run the risk of stripping away the skin’s natural oils and leaving it vulnerable to damage. All of these peels are designed to be used once or twice a month, and don’t worry if they tingle a little – this is normal. Peeled skin is more prone to sun damage, so be diligent about applying sunscreen for the following weeks.

1 IN 4 CHILDREN SUFFER EZCEMA TODAY Skin Recovery Cream – Steroid and Paraben Free – Proven one of the best Ezcema Creams on the market Dry, itchy and scaly skin can be calmed and treated naturally without the use of parabens or steroid creams.

Skin Recovery Cream from ES Skincare is a synergistic blend of essential oils and plant extracts that work together to calm and sooth itchy, dry skin conditions relating to Eczema and Dermatitis.

How it works The product is designed to soothe and heal the skin and underlying tissues. The essential oils and herbal extracts can help to both soothe irritated skin and to READERS improve the OFFER circulation to OCT ONLY the area. The ML essential oils £9.95 FOR 100 have been QUOTE chosen for OFFEROCT12 their healing, @ CHECKOUT anti-allergen and rejuvenating effects on the skin.

Extracts from Case Studies “I can honestly say that Skin Re-covery Cream has changed our lives for the better. If you or a member of your family suffer from eczema, I would advise you to try Skin Re-covery Cream” Riley Morgan “If you suffer from eczema try this amazing cream and you would see the result for yourself and you will be so happy that you have got rid of eczema for good” Bashayer Shahd

Available from www.esskincare.co.uk

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Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

HEALTH

ISeema BEAT BREAST CANCER...

Jaya Sharma opens up about battling breast cancer Turn your Friday pink!

BREAST Cancer Care is encouraging people nationwide to take part in the charity’s Pink Friday fundraising campaign by wearing pink, eating pink or partying pink at work, home or school.

Money raised will help fund vital services, such as the charity’s helpline, information points in hospitals and face to face services for people who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Having a Pink Friday is easy to do and can include anything from wearing pink in the office with pink food and drinks, to a pink pamper party with your mates at home or getting your class to wear pink to school.

Register now for a free Pink Fridays fundraising kit, full of party ideas and fundraising tips. Visit www.breastcancercare.org. uk/pinkfridays or call 0870 164 9422. �

and how her loved ones gave her the motivation to survive MOTHER of two, Seema Jaya Sharma was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009 when she was 32. She reveals how she stayed positive and body confident despite losing a breast.

As I sat with my precious girl on my lap trying to get her to laugh, she suddenly knocked her head into my breast. I winced pretending to be in pain hoping she would giggle, however I then noticed something unusual; a lump. My train of thought instantly went from lump to cancer to death.

After constant nagging from my mother, I finally decided to get it checked out as I was going to the hospital anyway for a smear test the following day. I didn’t want my mother to come with me so I went alone, even though I was absolutely petrified. I put on a brave face after a doctor referred me for a cancer scan, again assuming it had to be nothing.

I waited and agonised for two weeks for my results and as it was close to Diwali I just wanted to know and my GP was kind enough to get the results early for

Pictures: Justyna Ziolkowska Make-up: Mim Wilson

•TICKLED PINK Partying pink

me. Once again I went in by myself and braced myself for the news. As I was told that I had Stage 3 breast cancer I broke down in tears. But I only cried for a minute; after that I soldiered up and said ‘I WILL fight this.’ I had to think about my children and my mum who were the number one priority in life. I had to fight this for them.

Like any mother, my mum was distraught and couldn’t stop crying. The hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life however was

sitting my then eleven- year-old son down and explaining to him what was going on. I sat him down and watched as his face dropped. Straight away I tried to bring my funny personality into the situation and flexed my bicep, saying, ‘Look don’t worry, Mummy’s strong and she’s going to fight this!’

I felt so proud of him when he then ran to get his science book and began explaining to my mum what cancer was and everything he knew about it. Before I was diagnosed I knew absolutely nothing about breast cancer. I associated breast cancer with Kylie Minogue and thought she was amazing for getting through it. However that all changed when I was diagnosed. I was so grateful for reliable websites and to Breast Cancer Care, an organisation that really helped me out, offering support and information.

As my family members found out, they were all so emotional and didn’t stop crying. However, I refused to get upset and in jest told them they should be consoling me, not the other way round! Despite their tears, they were very supportive and I felt very lucky to have them around.

However, I relied on my friends a lot more than my family, and I would ask them to be there for me when I was going for treatments, though for my first surgery I went alone. As much as I wanted my mum there, I knew the worst thing for a mother to see was her own child going through cancer treatment and I just couldn’t inflict that on her.

My cancer started to spread so they removed my lump and lymph nodes from my armpit. I was then put through torture. I had to wait to see whether or not my cancer would return and how long I had left to live; I didn’t know if I had six weeks, six months or six years.

When the result day finally came, I was led into a room of five people and told to sit down.

Instantly I thought ‘When they tell you to sit down you know its going to be bad news’. I started panicking and felt so nervous.

They then told me the cancer had spread, that would have to

remove my breast but after that I would be fine.

As I heard the news, I was laughing and smiling to myself as I felt so relieved and happy. Not having a breast did not matter to me in the slightest, as long as I was still alive and around for my family. It turned out there was further good news. The doctors said they could reconstruct my breast by giving me a tummy tuck and transferring the muscle from there into my new breast. After having two children, I was over the moon that I was going to be given a tummy tuck and a new constructed breast!

One thing that women who have breast cancer find it hard to deal with is losing their hair. I used to have long thick curly hair that I cut off myself before it started falling out. I didn’t want to have to deal with seeing my hair fall out bit by bit, I knew it was going to happen so I decided to mentally prepare myself by going to Toni and Guy and getting a short funky hairstyle.

As always I tried to look at the funny side of the situation, especially in front of my kids.

When they were around I would say ‘Look kids Mummy’s a magician’ and I would pull little clumps of my hair out and sprinkle it on the floor. As young innocent children they found it hilarious and would always be laughing, which was all that mattered to me.

I never wore a wig. I embraced my baldness with pride as I felt I had nothing to hide. I’m proud of my natural beauty and it didn’t take me long to get my life back on track. It’s now been three years since my breast cancer. I never stopped dating and have always felt confident about myself. I’ve been on a journey that I never expected and I’ve come out stronger and happier than ever.

• For more information about being breast aware and the signs and symptoms to look out for visit www.breastcancercare.org.uk or call their free, confidential Helpline on 0808 800 6000.

The Helpline has access to an interpreter if you’d rather speak in a language other than English.

Keep abreast of the facts Each year 50,00 people in the UK are diagnosed with breast cancer –that’s equal to one in nine women developing breast cancer at some point in their lives.

4000 women are diagnosed every month, while another 1000 will die from the disease in that same month.

WHAT CAUSES BREAST CANCER? Every case is different and it’s impossible to pinpoint why individuals get cancer.

However, risks do increase if it already exists in your family, if you suffer from obesity, or if you use hormone replacement therapy and oral contraceptives. In most instances, having a healthy, active lifestyle can reduce the risk, although it is not uncommon for women who look after themselves to contract the cancer.

In the last decade the number of breast cancer diagnosis’ in the UK has increased, but the good news is that more women are surviving it than ever before.

Early detection is vital for this, but according to research by Breast Cancer Care, a shocking 43% of black and minority ethnic (BME) women admit to never looking at or feeling their breasts – 56% say this is because they don’t know what to look for. Don’t become part of this statistic, make sure you stay in control of your health.

HOW DO I CHECK MY BREASTS? There’s no right or wrong way to check your breasts but it’s important to get to know them so that you can immediately spot any irregularities.

Keep an eye on all parts of your breast, your armpits and up to your collarbone.

WHAT SHOULD I LOOK AND FEEL FOR? • Changes in size and shape • Changes in skin texture such as puckering or dimpling • Inverted nipple • A lump or thickening of breast tissue • Redness or a rash on the skin or around the nipple • Constant pain in breast or armpit • Swelling in armpit/around collarbone THE 5 POINT CODE 1. Know what is normal for you 2. Know what to look for and feel for 3. Look and feel 4. Report any changes to your GP without delay 5. Attend routine breast screening if you are 50 or over – encourage relatives/ friends in this bracket to do so.

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

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Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

BLOGGED ON

Priyanka the Stylista Our regular spotlight on a blog to log onto Name: Priyanka Gill Name of Blog: www.eStylista.com

How long have you been blogging?

1.5 years How did the idea of blogging come about?

The blog began as a way to put my journalistic portfolio online. Also, I realised I was spending a lot of time telling friends about restaurants I liked, shopping tips etc - the blog became an easy way to share my opinions and recommendations.

What is your blog about?

It’s about me and my take on fashion, food, London life and everything inbetween. It’s a reflection of what I am currently doing, wearing, attending.

How many hours a week do you spend blogging?

Around 6-8 hours or so a week. Like all blogs, mine began with a lot more enthusiasm at the tart and then it cooled down a bit.

How often do you update your blog?

Twice a week, if I’m being good!

Sometimes its more and over the summer it quietens down as holidays begin.

What is your greatest accomplishment in Blogging?

I’ve crossed over 100,000 page views.

Companies email and ask to be featured, some even ask for ad space.

Once in a while a stranger will come

up to me and say “I love your blog”!

Blogging is very fulfilling. Google analytics instantly tells you how many people saw your post. Applications like Chartbeat will show you real-time how many people are reading what you right. It is very satisfying to see you post number one or two when readers google for something.

What has been your greatest challenge?

The greatest challenge is monetizing.

I haven’t focussed to much on it, but figuring out the money aspect is an uphill struggle. Apart from that, there are times when inspiration dries out.

There nothing worse than a silent blog. At times like this one has to just overcome writer’s block and write!

How many people read your blog?

5000 unique visits a month. A lot of my readers come from Facebook and Twitter Do you get upset if you don’t get any feedback on your blogs?

Not really. I am not too active on the blogging network. Comment is often quid pro quo. If you comment on other blogs, you will get comments back. I get feed back when people call or message that they liked my blog post.

Do you have a personal favourite blog / or blogger?

I love many blogs.

HighHeelConfidential.com is one of the more successful blogs on Indian celeb style. LibertyLondonGIrl has done very well as well. Style bubble, the Sartorialist - they are all wonderful blogs.

What do you do that is considered unconventional in the blogging world?

It’s not really unconventional, but I focus on myself - what I wore, what I did etc - it gets a good response. I don’t stick to just fashion, or food or one single topic - my blog depends on what ever is important in my like at that particular time. In the best kind of way, it is ‘real’ - nothing plugged.

It’s honest.

Why do some people start a blog and then give up after a while?

Like anything, success comes with consistency. For me, as long as I know 400 odd people read what I post a day – it’s a great motivator.

Many years ago, I started a blog - but it didn’t last. Simply because I could not tell if anyone was reading it. Now with new technology, I get instant feedback - which is very motivating.

Who is your biggest influence?

Magazines like Vogue, Harpers - there is so much beauty and information in their pages. Successful bloggers like LibertyLondonGirl or AGirlinChelsea are good role models - they have made a paying career out of blogging.

What advice would you like to share with fellow bloggers?

Have a point of view, don’t be shy and keep at it! The most important thing is to find your voice and style.

If you are true to yourself, the blog will find readers who like it. Blogging is simple - the trick lies in consistency. Don’t give up!

If someone was interested in blogging, what few things would you suggest?

Begin! Get a template, link up your blog with social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter. Be original in your writing. Think about technical things like metatags - they give you a good google rank. Never plagarise attribute if you need to. Have fun with blogging. It’s not a serious medium. Always spell check!!

HOROSCOPES ARIES

March 21 - April 20

Be mindful of legal obligations late in the week and make sure that they are all fulfilled. There is a sense of karmic justice that is very strong this week. Keep in mind that getting even has a price as well.

Your challenge this week is to pick your battles carefully; seeking support from a partner or associate is not a sign of weakness but, rather, finding a balance of giving and receiving strength.

TAURUS

April 21 - May 21

Take that extra minute to look at the big picture and things will turn out fine Learning to develop your self-worth through your own efforts is the challenge this week. You can become so wrapped up in the needs and drama of those around you that you lose sight of your own goals and how to achieve them. Some minor financial turmoil at the beginning of the week could get blown out of proportion and cause you to over-react.

GEMINI

May 22 - June 21

This is a time to expand your horizons so let your imagination illuminate the possibilities ahead. This is a good week to plan new beginnings and projects, particularly those in the career and relationship realms. Your optimism and willingness to expand your knowledge in these areas is reflected in your self confidence. The challenge here is to avoid being distracted by that old restless feeling to keep moving on.

CANCER

June 22 - July 22

The underlying restless that you are dealing with stems not from anything in the present but from some longstanding karmic matter that needs to be identified and then resolved. It is important to remember that, ultimately, it is your task to find that which brings you happiness.

This week will be filled with emotional ups and downs especially in those areas relating to your public or external image.

LEO

July 23 – August 23

Letting go of that which has gone may mean releasing memories or relationships that you have outgrown. Echoes of the past seem to be blocking the path to the future this week. Seeking thrills through selfindulgence (i.e. too much partying) is not the answer; different doesn’t always mean better. Understanding that freedom in a relationship doesn’t mean freedom from relationships is a lesson well learned now.

VIRGO

August 24 - September 22

Your challenge is to face the fear of rejection and understand that only in doing so can you free yourself from those emotional chains. Holding onto the emotions of a past love actually act like a prison that is restraining you from finally letting go and being willing to start again.

Mid-week, a social encounter could provide a kind of enlightenment that, yes, there is a future worth having. Go for it!!

LIBRA

September 23 - October 23

Visualizing the process that is required to achieve success will help you succeed in bringing the “finished project” to life. Lots of ambitious energy this week is making you feel antsy to do “something”, even if you aren’t sure exactly what that “something” is. Impulsive actions can cause needless arguments with potential allies; just because an idea is good doesn’t mean that you have to act on it immediately.

SCORPIO

October 24 - November 22

What is called for now it to reexamine just what (and who) you have defined as “valuable”. As important as material wealth is, emotional treasures are worth even more. Emotional security is the focus this week. Recent events have enhanced your tendency to play everything close to the vest with the result being that you may actually be missing out on some support by not letting anyone inside.

SAGITTARIUS

November 23 - December 21

This is a time to truly learn about each other; embrace and enjoy the moment. The medium is the message and, this week, the medium is romance and it may only be a short distance away. Your words can, literally, paint a picture of the future so choose them wisely. What may begin as a pleasant interlude could turn into something much more intense by the weekend.

CAPRICORN

December 22 - January 20

Accepting the emotional support of family members is not a sign of weakness; rather it will remind you of why you work so hard This week the focus is on security. There are some issues on the home front that have you doubting your ability to maintain things as they have been.

While the financial aspect is important, do not overlook your need to be nurtured even while you are pushing yourself to stabilize things.

AQUARIUS

January 21 – February 18

Your intuition is strong but the information may be flawed especially near week’s end. Romantic activities are front and center this week. In the midst of all that passion, you may find that you temporarily lose your focus. It could be difficult knowing exactly where you stand with your love interest. You are more vulnerable emotionally than you may know so major decisions about the future should be put off for now.

PISCES

February 19 - March 20

Take the time to form a vision of what you are trying to do. Change merely for the sake of change may not always be a good thing and this week, that point could be driven home in the work realm. Trying to get your point across could rub some both co-workers and friends the wrong way mid-week. Temper your enthusiasm with some moderation in order to avoid stress-related health issues.

ask Neelam

I FEEL SORRY FOR HIM Dear Neelam,

I’VE been with my man for six years, we’ve had a fantastic relationship, but a couple of years ago he lost a leg in a car crash.

Since then I’ve tried not to hurt him further, but if I’m honest my feelings changed a while ago and I’m worried I’m only with him because I feel sorry for him.

Neelam says..

Going through trauma is enough to rock any relationship and sticking by him whether you’re in love with him or not, is bound to shake up your emotions.

Couples in long term relationships experience their most testing time when they reach the seven year itch so six years together is good going. My guess is that you’ve been each other’s rocks through many a hurdle; a role that can also be played by a friend and the first step in measuring a relationship is knowing whether the lust still burns or whether you’re just best buds. If it’s the latter, I’m afraid to say, it’s time to move on. Men are not mind readers, so the sooner he finds out how you’re feeling the better. As for trying not to hurt him, you can’t protect him forever, not even his mum can do that! He’s only lost a leg, not his life, and by clinging onto him, you’re not letting him live his realistically. The car crash itself is likely to have given your man a new outlook on life, those who’ve come close to death are stronger willed and can cope with anything so put him out of his misery gently.

33

GOT SOMETHING ON YOUR MIND? SHARE IT, HALVE IT, LET NEELAM SORT IT e: neelam@asiancity.co.uk

‘He treats her like a puppet’ Dear Neelam,

MY best friend’s fallen in love with a monster who cancelled our holiday and banned her from wearing make up. When I bring it up, she accuses me of being jealous. Why can’t she see she’s dating a control freak?

Neelam says..

Whether he’s jealous, chauvistic or plain insecure, the sad fact is he’s convinced her it’s because he loves her. It won’t work confronting him, manipulators are clever with their words and will no doubt take it out on her later. When girls have their esteem knocked, we get embarrassed, and hide it behind a facade. So you bringing it up will mean she’ll get on the defensive.

Let her know her friends are there for her, don’t bully her into an ultimatum, and hopefully she’ll see the difference between friends (who don’t tell her how to act), and a partner who does. If you continue to notice anything abnormal then assemble a group of her closest friends and approach her kindly together, that way she can’t lash out at you and she’ll feel she’s got people to turn to.

Dear Neelam,

MY girlfriend keeps teasing me to put on her dresses while she wants to trade them in for my work suit. I’ve heard of couples doing role plays but isn’t swapping gender a bit weird and will it really turn us on?

Neelam says..

USELESS SCRUBBER! Dear Neelam,

Why are men incapable of doing the washing up?

Every time mine does, I just have to do it all over again!

Neelam says..

Because he was raised by a doting mother that treated him with kid (rubber) gloves! And he’s treating you like the same kind of sucker. There’s no sweeter sound to a slacker bloke’s ears than ‘oh leave it, I’ll do it’. No. If it’s his turn to do the chores and he screws up, make him do it again properly. Or he goes to bed without dinner!

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

WILL DRESSING UP SPICE THINGS UP?

NOT everyone has a partner who’s happy to indulge in their fantasties so well done for not ruling her’s out. Taking on the male role can be a release for a woman; donning on a shirt and tie may make her feel more powerful and if that’s what arouses her, you’re likely to be in for a treat. If you’re worried about feeling less of a man because you’re wearing a spangly frock, then assert yourself in your new role. After all, every man likes a woman who know’s what she wants so she’s probably not expecting you to surrender to all her demands. Dressing up is a sure fire way to inject the humour back into the bedroom as long as you’re both happy with it and she doesn’t start dressing you up as her ex and make you wear his old clothes...now that would be a worry. Believe me, many a man would love to be in your shoes. You’ll also experience what it’s really like to wear heels, so you can finally be repaid for all those foot massages you’ve performed when she’s had the blisters. And most importantly, if you indulge hers, she’ll be more than willing to test out some of your own…

NEELAM’S COMMANDMENTS

3 Thou shalt not let thy body do the talking Testament: Men rely on signals. Unless the guy is a shameless cretin, he will worry about rejection or fear of causing offence.

Your body language should say you are approachable and interested.

Absolution: Positive body language is all about open gestures. If you have your arms folded, your upper body turned away and your legs locked shut, you are giving out closed gestures. Your pupils dilate when you see something attractive, so eye contact is crucial. Other obvious signals include playing with your hair or flipping it, leaning forward and, of course, a big winning smile. Laughing at his jokes and touching him gently are always a winner.

Mantra: More than words, let your smile and eyes join in the conversation!

LOVE FACT

Engagement rings are often worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because the ancient Greeks maintained that that finger contains the vena amoris, or the “vein of love,” that runs straight to the heart. The first recorded wedding rings appear in ancient Egypt, with the circle representing eternity as well as powerful sun and moon deities.

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Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

STOCKISTS Can’t get hold of the latest ASIAN CITY, no problem, just visit one of our regular stockists listed below: East London:

Digital Music 8 Stephens Parade, Green Street E7 T: 07957 126 976

Anand Pan Centre 116 Ilford Lane, Ilford IG1 2LE T: 0208 514 3800

Balo Basha 9 Osborn Street, London E1 6TD T: 07865 053 716

Nanak Desi Sweet Centre 391 High Rd, Ilford IG1 1TF T: 0208 911 8077

Geet Ghor Plus 24 Osborn Street, London E1 6TD T: 07958 176443

B.B. Fatima 141-143 Ilford Lane, Ilford IG1 2RP T: 0208 553 4770

Sarai Sweet Centre 63A Plumstead High Street, London SE18 1SB T: 0208 317 9744

Mithai Wala 464 Lady Maragaret Rd, Southall UB1 2NP T: 0208 578 5274

West London:

Pan Parlour 337 Green Lane, Ilford IG3 8BD T: 0208 597 8328

Mega Blast 131 Ilford Lane, Ilford IG4 5ND T: 07956 931 014

Indian Music4U 718 Kenton Rd, Middx HA3 9QX T: 0208 204 5000

Quality Foods Hayes Bridge Retail Park 1 Uxbridge Rd, UB4 0JU T: 0208 848 0777

Sanam Music Centre 266 Bethnal Green Rd E2 0AG T: 0208 552 8008

Khan Halal Butchers 394 Green Lane, Ilford IG3 9JX T: 0208 598 2727

Al-Hussain’s Restaurant & Take Away 72 Ilford Lane, Ilford IG1 2LA T: 0208 478 8252

Shivan Pan & Sweet Mart 443 Kenton Rd, Middx HA3 0X T: 0208 206 2225

Music Hunters 133B Green Street, London E7 8JF T: 0208 586 2304

Kashmir Halal Butchers 121 Ilford Lane, Ilford IG1 2RN T: 0208 514 8899

Imaani London 93 Ilford Lane, Ilford IG1 2RJ T: 0208 478 8558

Videorama Pan Centre 8 Kenton Park Parade HA3 8DQ T: 0208 907 0116

Raishma (London) 37 Green Street, London E7 8DA T: 0208 552 6751

Islamabad Halal Butchers 251 Ilford Lane, Ilford IG1 2SB T: 0208 478 0552

Neelam Hair & Beauty 159-161 Green St, London E7 8JE T: 0208 552 8008

Durga 173-175 Ilford Lane, Ilford, IG1 2RT T: 0208 478 3466

Sangham Video & Fireworks 410 Hoe Street, Walthamstow, London E17 9AA T: 0208 521 4792

Pick & Save Ltd 202-204 Kenton Rd, Harrow HA3 8BX T: 0208 907 8880

South London

Anand Pan Centre Green Street, London E7 8LL T: 0208 472 4425

Seasons Asian Designer Wear 196 Ilford Lane, Ilford IG1 2LG T: 0208 553 3999

Tooting Video Centre 71-73 Upper Tooting Rd SW17 T: 0208 682 8818

Rams Pan 201 Kenton Rd, Harrow HA3 0HD T: 07947 621 221

Partap Fashion Fabrics 277B Green Street, London E7 8LE T: 0208 472 9979

B&B Cash & Carry 189-195 Ilford Lane, Ilford IG1 2RU T: 0208 514 7840

Anand Pan Centre 102 Upper Tooting Rd SW17 T: 0208 762 7576

Shayona Sweet & Savouries 168 Pinner Rd, Harrow HA1 4JP T: 020 8427 5650

RDC London 181 Ilford Lane, Ilford IG1 2RT T: 0208 514 8206

Style 2000 155A Upper Tooting Rd SW17 T: 0208 672 1115

Shree Krishna Vada Pav 63 Station Rd, Harrow HA1 2TY T: 0208 863 4185

Haroons Halal Meat 179 Ilford Lane, Ilford IG1 2RT T: 0208 553 54528

JR’s High Class Butchers 163 Upper Tooting Rd, SW17 7TJ T: 0208 682 3949

Milan Video 75 Station Rd, Harrow HA2 7SW T: 0208 861 4971

Quality Foods 118 Ilford Lane, Ilford IG1 2LE T: 0208 514 8888

SD Off Licence 167 Upper Tooting Rd, SW17 7TJ

Jalaram Pan House 782 Harrow Rd, Sudbury HA0 3EL T: 020 8904 3228

S.S. Designers 277 Green Street, London E7 8LJ T: 0208 472 9141 Gifts & Favours 300 Green Street, London E7 8LF T: 0208 471 1286 Eastern Styles 302 Green Street, London E7 8LF T: 0208 257 8825

Saiqa Collection 240 Upper Tooting Rd, SW17 7EX T: 0208 767 6765 Temptation 451 London Rd SW16 4AQ T: 0208 679 4900

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Santosh 832 London Rd, Croydon CR7 7PA T: 0208 683 2447 Capricorn Bar, Club & Restaurant 4 Lakedale Rd, Plumstead, London SE18 1PP T: 0208 855 3366 D G Electronics 30 Plumstead High Street, London SE18 1SL T: 0208 854 5217

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Krishna Pan Centre 606a High Rd, Wembley HA0 2AF T: 020 8900 0499 Paul & Co 588 High Rd, Wembley HA0 2AF T: 020 8902 8192 Amma Food 561 High Rd, Wembley HA0 2DW T: 020 8902 7022 Suraj Sweet Mart 44a Ealing Rd, Wembley HA0 4TL T: 020 8900 1991 Sonas Haute Couture 48 Ealing Rd, Wembley HA0 4TQ T: 0208 795 1100 Popat Stores Ltd 138-158 Ealing Rd, Wembley HA0 4PY T: 020 8903 6397 Muzik Zone 105A Ealing Rd, Wembley HA0 4BP T: 0208 795 1265 Prabu Pan@Sakonis 129 Ealing Rd, Wembley HA0 4BP T: 07402 682586

Quality Foods 47-61 South Rd, Southall UB1 1SQ T: 0208 917 9188 Royal Collection 105A The Broadway UB1 1LN T: 0208 571 5554 Nargis Collection 96 The Broadway UB1 1QF T: 0208 571 2378 Banwait Bros & Co 75-77 The Broadway, Southall UB1 1LA T: 0208 574 2635 New Fashion House 88 The Broadway UB1 1QF T: 0208 843 0969 New Fashion House 2-4 King St, Southall UB2 4DA T: 0208 574 4133 A-Z Muzik Unit 3, 7 The Broadway UB1 T: 0208 843 2358 New Khalsa Super Store No.4 South Rd, UB1 1RT T: 07427 675479 Santoshi 41A South Rd, Middx UB1 1SW T: 0208 843 2461

North London: Apsara Novelties 437 Kingsbury Rd, London NW9 9DT T: 0208 206 2183 Pooja Sweets & Savouries 487 Kingsbury Rd, London NW9 9ED T: 0208 621 5748 Anand Pan Centre 542 Kingsbury Rd, London NW9 9HH T: 0208 204 4440 Gayatri Sweet Mart 467 Kingsbury Rd, London NW9 9DY T: 020 8206 1677 Maruthi Express 14 Queensbury Station Parade, Edgware HA8 5NR T: 020 3302 4824 Equatoria Travel 8 Queensbury Station Parade, Edgware HA8 5NP T: 020 8381 2535

Panachand Pan House 238 Ealing Rd, Wembley HA0 4QL T: 0208 902 9962

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Fresh Halal Meat And Fish 490 Lady Maragaret Rd, Southall UB1 2NP T: 0208 578 0000

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Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

35

RECIPES RED PUMPKIN WITH CASHEW NUTS

AUBERGINES AND POTATOES IN PEANUT SAUCE

THE ingredient list may seem a bit daunting, but the final dish is well worth it. Also, most of the ingredients are not difficult to get hold of. Fenugreek leaves add a curry-like flavour and, if you are using them, pinch of the leaves and discard the stalks.

Serve this with a roti or poories.

Ingredients: Serves four

VEGETARIAN FORCE Who says veggie dishes are only good for a bit on the side?

Recipes by MONISHA BHARDWAJ ANDHRA Pradesh has a long coastline along the Bay of Bengal.

The cuisine is a rich variety of vegetables cooked in spices and milk. The curry leaves in this recipe add a burst of fresh flavour and in India, they are often grown at home in pots or in the garden.

They are cheap and often a vegetable seller will toss a few stalks into your bag free of charge.

They are best used fresh although they can be dried for ease of storage.

Ingredients: Serves four Preparation time: 15 mins Cooking time: 30 mins • 150g freshly grated coconut • 8 cashew nuts • 1 tbsp poppy seeds • 2 tbsp sunflower oil • 1/2 tsp black mustard seeds • 2 dried red chillies, broken in half and seeds shaken out • 6 curry leaves

• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder • 300g red pumpkin, peeled and chopped in 1cm cubes • 3 tbsp soft brown sugar • Salt • 150ml milk • 4 tbsp water

saucepan and add the mustard seeds. When they pop, add the chillies and the curry leaves.

Sprinkle in the turmeric and pour in the coconut paste at once. Stir to blend.

Add the pumpkin and a couple of tablespoons of water.

Add the sugar and salt. Pour in Preparation: Put the coconut, cashew nuts, poppy the milk and bring to the boil. seeds and 4 tablespoons of water in Reduce the heat and simmer until a blender and grind to a paste. Add the pumpkin is just tender but still water as necessary to make a fine holds its shape - which should take approximately 10 to 12 minutes. paste. Keep aside.

Heat the oil in a heavy-bottomed Serve hot with rice.

SMOKY LENTILS WITH TOMATO THIS dish is made by the Saraswat community in Karnataka. Diced aubergine or red pumpkin can be substituted for the tomato, in which case, cook the vegetables separately and add to the lentils with the tamarind. This dish tastes better a day after you make it.

Ingredients: Serves four Preparation time: 15 mins Cooking time: 30 mins • 225g split red lentils (masoor dal), washed and drained • Salt

• 1 tsp tamarind concentrate, diluted in 4 tsp water • 3 ripe tomatoes, chopped • 1 tsp kholombo powder • 2 tbsp sunflower oil • 1/2 tsp black mustard seeds • 4 dried red chillies, deseeded and crumbled • Large pinch of asafoetida • 12 curry leaves

Add the salt, tamarind, tomatoes and kholombo powder and simmer for a couple of minutes, then take off the heat and reserve.

Heat the oil in a small saucepan and add the mustard seeds.

When they crackle, add the chillies, asafoetida and curry leaves. Pour over the lentils. Mix well and serve with rice and hot pickle.

Preparation: Put the lentils and double their volume of hot water into a pan and bring to the boil.

Reduce the heat and simmer until the lentils are mushy, for about 30 minutes.

Note: Kholombo powder is only available in select shops, so it’s best to make your own at home, from a mixture including sunflower oil, split gram lentils, coriander and cumin seeds.

• 1 tsp white sesame seeds, toasted • 2 tsp peanuts, toasted • 2 tbsp gram flour (besan) • 400 g tin chopped tomatoes • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste • Handful of fenugreek leaves, chopped • Handful of coriander leaves, chopped • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder • 1/2 tsp chilli powder • salt • 1 tsp brown sugar • 300g small aubergines, slit down the middle • 2 tbsp black mustard seeds • 100g potatoes, peeled and quartered Preparation: Crush the sesame seeds and peanuts and reserve.

Heat a pan and dry roast the gram flour, stirring constantly for 2 – 3 minutes, and then mix well into the chopped tomatoes and reserve. In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut and tomato mixture, ginger-garlic paste and the chopped leaves. Add the spice powders and season with salt, then the sugar.

Stuff the aubergines with this mixture saving any that is left over to add to the pan later. Heat the oil in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add the mustard seeds and allow them to pop. Gently place the aubergines and potatoes in the pan and pour in any leftover spice mixture. Pour in a few tablespoons of water and cover the pan. Bring to the boil, reduce the heat and simmer until the vegetables are cooked, for about 25 minutes.

36

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

TRAVEL

SRI LANKA IN LUXURY

Refresh and rejuvenate the body, mind and spirit, do it in style in Sri Lanka STEP onto the coastal resort Bentota in the southwest region of Sri Lanka to find yourself residing in the Taj Exotica and suddenly all you can think of is paradise.

Sprawled across 8 acres of land, Taj Exotica is one of Bentota’s 5-star hotels housing 162 fully equipped rooms.

All come with balconies overlooking the landscaped gardens or the sea and, if you’re lucky, the glorious sight of elephants carrying a bridegroom into the Indian Ocean! As I began to chat to the locals I was amazed by the warmth and spirit they had to offer. Tourists, I was told, were beginning to come back in flocks to Sri Lanka and I wasn’t surprised to see why. It took the staff less than a minute to produce a Nokia Phone charger and, on my birthday, a lovely chocolate cake arrived in my room by surprise – I hadn’t even told them – they got that from my registration form. Now that’s attention to detail!

Sri Lanka has many nicknames: Serendib, Ceylon, Resplendent Isle, Island of Dharma and Pearl of the Orient. I quite liked the endearing description of Sri Lanka being the teardrop that falls from the southern tip of India and discovered that many Indians also travel here for business and end up returning for relaxing holidays.

For those that like to connect with the spirit of the land they’re visiting, nothing beats a friendly game of cricket or football with locals, who seem to play on just about any turf you come across. And I for one didn’t expect to find myself amid a hundred Sri Lankans gathered to watch a game between Manchester United and Arsenal on a giant screen!

If you still think Sri Lanka is all hardship and no play, prepare to be blown away…

SPA To relax myself I wanted to experience the healing powers of what the Jiva Spa at the Taj Exotica had to offer. Tucked away from the hotel and surrounded by swaying coconut trees in a serene environment, this 7500 sq ft self-

by MARY RAHMAN contained six-room spa complex sets you in a calm mood from the offset and you are always welcomed with smiles and the traditional greeting ‘ayubowan’. This spa forms part of the range of Jive Spas that Taj Hotels are introducing across its hotels all over the world. Blending ancient Indian wisdom with contemporary therapies, the Jive Spa has a wide ranging treatments including rejuvenation therapies, aromatherapy massages, body scrubs and wraps. The country is slowly becoming increasingly popular in introducing spas and Jiva, which translates as ‘life force’, is playing a big part in bringing the teachings and heritage of Indian philosophies of wellbeing to Sri Lanka. As well as the obligatory soothing music, flower petals and softly glowing lamps, Jiva has its own signature organic linen and clothing range to ensure you’re clad only in attire made of natural fibre.

I tried the shudhikara treatment which promised to purify my system. Spurred on by the words ‘lymphatic drainage massage’ (anything that sounded like it was going to get drained and then massaged had to be positive!), I found myself literally frozen, wrapped up in plantain leaf and left for 20 minutes followed by a full body massage.

Although I wasn’t quite sure what had happened to me through the treatment I can only say that the after-effects were amazing – that evening I slept like a baby.

Naturally, I was back for more the next day (I may add, at a fraction of the prices

‘As if the balconies overlooking landscaped gardens and the sea weren’t enough, you might just catch the sight of a bridegroom riding an elephant into the Indian Ocean’ you would pay for in the UK to visit a Spa). This time I opted for a traditional head massage known as the champi. The vigorous yet relaxing massage over my head, neck and shoulders released much muscular tension and I was allowed to have a little sleep afterwards (instead of being shown the door the way they do in Britain).

EATING You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to dining at the Taj Exotica Bentota and, while we all want to taste local delicacies when on holiday, if you get a craving for good old-fashioned fish and chips, they can get that for you at a moment’s notice!

My favourite restaurant was the Shack, a cone shaped hut that looked like something from The Flintstones with gorgeous views of the Indian Ocean and a tantalising exotic cocktail menu to boot.

The Oriental Pavilion also serves Cantonese and Schezuan cuisine with indoor and outdoor seating options, while at the Sea View Restaurant you get to see the catch of the day straight from the Ocean prepared in front of you.

SIGHTSEEING AROUND BENTOTA If you’re the adventurous, exploring type, there’s enough to do in Bentota to keep you occupied throughout your vacation. Just 55 kms away the Fort of Galle, a Dutch fort built in 1663 stands testimony to Bentota’s colonial past.

Enter the Spice Gardens for a refreshing whiff of cinnamon, widely cultivated in the area, or travel down to the coastal resort of Hikkaduwa and take a ride on the glass bottom boat to discover the coral gardens, with exotic marine life offering a truly spectacular view. I took a more leisurely river cruise down the Madu Ganga, where an expert boatman meandered us through exotic and lush green vegetation (although when he asked whether I wanted to see crocodiles I kindly let him know I swam like a brick!). For animal lovers, a visit to the Turtle Hatchery in Induruwa is a must.

Only 8 km away from the hotel the Turtle Hatchery recently survived the effects of the tsunami and seven different species of marine turtles coming ashore to nest at the Hatchery.

OTHER PLACES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA Although a lot of people come over to have a nice beach holiday, there is definitely more to see and to do than sunbathing on one of the many excellent beaches and I wanted to end my trip with a bit of culture!

COLOMBO As sociable and fun goes, Colombo is at the heart of it all. The city is small with a population of less than two million but it’s always bustling with non-stop parties, casinos, cinemas, grand shopping malls and, for the shopaholic, it’s a mecca for bargain hunting. The best way to take in the city, funnily enough, is on board a good old-fashioned British Routemaster double decker bus!

THE PINNAWELA ELEPHANT ORPHANAGE Elephants were once royal property in Sri Lanka and it was forbidden to kill them. Today there are only about 2800 wild elephants left, compared with 12,000 in 1900. Sri Lanka’s most visited tourist attraction The Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage has the world’s largest group of captive elephants. More than simply a tourist attraction, it has developed into a conservation and educational centre that’s now home to more than 70 injured and abandoned animals, including some beautiful baby calves. During the day, the whole herd is bathed in the adjoining Maha Oya River and I watched in amusement along with hundreds of other tourists the antics the elephants got up to as they resisted getting washed by their mahoots (elephant trainers). Definite photo and video camera opportunity! Don’t forget to ride and bathe one in various parks near to the Orphanage.

constructed by the Kandyan Kings provides a focal point for the Old Royal Palace and the Temple Of The Buddha’s Tooth, where the famous relic, the tooth of the Buddha, is safely guarded. It is best to visit the Temple first and then make your way up to one of the hill top restaurants for lunch while taking in the breathtaking views of the yonder temple.

The nearby Botanical Gardens simply has to be experienced, but make sure you set some time aside to find out why this is known as the centre of Sri Lanka’s arts and crafts centre – the handicrafts and jewellery on offer are to die for.

It’s not hard to see why Sri Lanka is still one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world, especially among the British and Germans (many Sri Lankans in the tourist industry speak KANDY both languages fluently). British Asians The long car journey to Kandy from flock there for honeymoons, self Colombo is a long and bumpy one but discovery, relaxation or just an excuse so incredibly worth it. The ancient for a party. capital of Sri Lanka is picturesquely What are you waiting for? situated in a valley surrounded by wooded hills and, as a World Heritage • Taj Exotica, Bentota Site, is hailed as one of the most exotica@sri.lanka.net beautiful towns in South Asia. A lake www.tajexoticasrilanka.com

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

37

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IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL READERS Asian City Media Ltd neither endorses nor guarantees the effectiveness of services offered by advertisers on this page and is therefore not liable in the event that a service delivered does not meet the expectations of the customer. When engaging psychics or spiritual healers, customers should satisfy themselves of the ability of advertisers to deliver the promised services before completing transactions.

38

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

CAREERS

GROUND WORK!

HOW TO ASK FOR A PAY RISE YOU know you’re worth more but you don’t like asking for money. Even if you’re a salesperson, asking for a pay rise isn’t easy because you’re not selling a product – you’re selling yourself

Here’s a few tips: • Book an appointment with your boss to make it official. However laidback your work place may be, asking for a pay rise in a matter-of-fact way may well elicit a tongue-in-cheek rejection. Arrange the meeting at a time when you are feeling confident about your recent performance and your boss isn’t under too much pressure.

• Treat the meeting as you would a job interview. That means appearing professional, confident and word perfect. Maintain eye contact, watch your posture and keep a friendly demeanour.

• Present yourself as you would a report, highlighting your achievements and endeavours to further company success. Mention how much you enjoy working there and where you fit in with future developments.

• At the end of your presentation, come out with it straight: ‘therefore I feel deserve a pay increase.’

Have a definite amount in mind but don’t be unwilling to negotiate. Avoid attaching terms like ‘I kind of feel’, or ‘you should’, because you don’t want to appear half-hearted or demanding.

Even if you’re happy with the offer, it’s not greedy to talk about other benefits such as a pension or company car. It shows you mean business.

• If your offer is rejected, don’t throw a tantrum. But don’t give in either. Politely ask why and how soon you can negotiate a pay review.

Don’t threaten to walk out, but by all means suggest that if the situation doesn’t improve you may be left with no option other than to seek employment elsewhere. Whatever the outcome, be sure to shake hands and say thank you.

EARLY morning and you’re at your desk leisurely looking through e-mails while sipping a cup of piping hot coffee. It’s quiet save for the odd phone ring and the soothing hum of the photocopier.

And then suddenly she comes in, your boss and she means business.

She strides confidently through the room, dressed in an exquisitely tailored suit, killer Christian Laboutin heels and brandishing the latest Hermes handbag. You and the rest of the workforce line her path to her office all ready and waiting to assist.

She hasn’t said a word yet; the sight of her is enough to stir the whole floor into action.

It’s astounding what fashion does in the workplace, especially when you’re a powerful career woman. It reiterates your place in the pecking order, which, if it happens to be way at the top, ensures you stay there.

And most importantly what man can resist the charms of a smart and sophisticated lady who knows what she wants?

Power dressing, as this phenomenon is called, came into its own in the Eighties with the appearance of shoulder pads, boxy cuts, straight lines, in short all things that looked manly, so that women could join and outdo the ranks of their male colleagues.

Thankfully that trend moved on, but the idea remained. Today women in finance, media and the legal profession use their wardrobe to excel in their career. A survey in March discovered that almost 60 per cent of women felt more in control if they power-dressed at work, with more than a third competing with their female colleagues in what they wear.

Eighteen year old Simrat Aydee knows all too well about the

How power dressing can have them falling at your feet…

industry you need to gain respect. I keep it formal, teeming a pinstriped shirt with a skirt suit. Yes it’s a big effort but it gives a good impression all round. Besides when I dress smart, I think smart!’

Any veteran power dresser knows that the trick to power dressing is keeping it smart but simple.

Professional stylist Dilly Mudalige has helped women revamp their work wardrobes. She explains: ‘Women at director level often appear to have a better sense of style as they earn more money to buy a better wardrobe. But nowadays more is available to us at all levels so there’s no excuse not to have one decent suit in your wardrobe that you can mix and match with ordinary pieces.’ It’s important to get power dressing right; too little and there’s no point, too much and you come across threatening. Remember unless you’re in that kind of environment, power dressing might earn you a legion of enemies. But with more and more women taking up high-powered positions, dress importance of dress. As a London is a potent tool stockbroker and one of three women that commands in her company, she confides: ‘there’s respect, and gets certainly a lad culture in stock all those men falling broking, and to make it in the in line!

Dilly’s top power dressing tips: • • • • • •

Invest in a well tailored suit.

Skirts should be knee-length with an A line cut.

Go with kitten heels.

Don’t mix and match colours and fabrics.

Never wear faded black, and steer clear of two toned effects.

Think minimal when accessorising and that goes for jewellery, make-up and perfume.

FANCY A ROUND OF P45?

WE’VE all been there. The clock strikes five and you just can’t face the long train ride home. So you round up colleagues equally in need of a fix and make a quick stopover at the local watering hole.

Only it’s not so casual a detour as originally planned. The booze starts flowing, frivolous chatter runs a-plenty and before you know it, the next working day is fast upon you. But the thumping headache and nausea rising up your gullet make you scramble for the phone and call in sick.

This is fast becoming an all too familiar scenario for workers in Britain.

A quarter of booze-loving Brits take three and a half sick days a year owing to a hangover. Do some further number crunching and this statistic rolls over to a whopping 27 million alcohol-related sickies pulled nationwide.

Men are the biggest culprits; in a lifetime they shell out on average of £32,184 at the bar, whereas us ladies pay out £19,165 for a knees up.

But there’s nothing respectable in giving work a miss because you’re too comatosed to clock in. And you’re not exactly doing your promotion

www.futuretraining4jobs.com

prospects any favours by repeatedly turning up at work hungover.

The logical answer would be to drink on the weekends when you can afford the dizzy spells, but another finding of the survey showed that the average adult drinks three out of the seven days with most of the alcohol being consumed before Friday even comes.

The fact that we’re drinking more during the week reveals a more serious problem. While we’re the biggest boozed up nation in Europe, we’re also ranking first in a stressful lifestyle. The workload piles up, and drinking gives that momentary release and fits easily into a lunch hour.

Spokesman for Work Wise UK blames long commutes and rigid hours for our rising stress levels: ‘Our long working hours culture wastes time and reduces the freedom for people to develop a life beyond work.

One way to ease stress is by reducing the number of journeys, for example by working from home, while flexible working allows people to stagger their travel outside peak periods.’

So the answer lies in making work less stressful. And no, that doesn’t mean unwinding in the bar…

Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

DAREDEVILS ON TOP Agarkar takes two key wickets to secure win •ON FORM Shiv Kapur

Kapur happy with fourth SHIV Kapur was the best-placed Indian golfer at fourth after carding a blemish-free five-under 66 but it was Thai veteran Thaworn Wiratchant (66) who walked away with the top honours after clinching a thrilling playoff at the Hero Indian Open on Sunday.

Another Indian, Anirban Lahiri, a twotime Asian Tour winner, Arnond Vongvanij of Thailand and Jaakko Makitalo of Finland were a further two shots back in fifth place.

Kapur, who has four top-five finishes on the Asian Tour this season, was delighted to continue his solid form where he posted a flawless round highlighted by five birdies.

“I’m happy but not satisfied. I just wanted to go out there and shoot my heart out. This is my national open and Hero is my sponsor.” said Kapur.

•AMBITION Vishnu Vardhan

‘I WANT TO IMPROVE’

THE clouds hung heavy over Newlands but the rain that has blighted much of this Champions League Twenty20 stayed away, allowing a tight and intense encounter that ended with Delhi Daredevils moving top of the group. The headliner for Daredevils was the much-maligned Ajit Agarkar, who took two big wickets before coolly finishing off the game with the bat.

Though Perth Scorchers were eliminated after this defeat, they showed typical Australian tenaciousness to take the match to the final over. On a track where it was tough for the batsmen to time the ball, Scorchers could run up only 121, a score which is rarely defended in Twenty20 cricket and which looked even smaller given the heavyweights in the Daredevils batting. The heads didn’t drop, however, and they steadily chipped away at the Daredevils.

Their appetite for a scrap was highlighted by Nathan Rimmington. In the 15th over, Virender Sehwag, nearing a halfcentury and the last big-name batsman remaining, slashed a chance to third man, where Rimmington fluffed the catch, and for a six too. In a low-scoring match, that seemed the slip that would seal Scorchers’ fate. Instead, Rimmington hit back by removing Irfan Pathan off the very next delivery, and then getting the critical wicket of Sehwag three balls later.

That set up a tense finale. Naman Ojha, the last recognised batsman, put away a short delivery from Brad Hogg for four, but was otherwise ill at ease. He nicked a jaffa from Nathan Coulter-Nile to the keeper in the 18th over but wasn’t given out, though two balls

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SPORT

•PIONEER Monisha Kaltenborn is the first female Formula 1 boss

F1 team boss welcomes home race... in India

•STEADY Virender Sehwag made a controlled half-century to set up the chase The trickiness of the pitch was later he edged it once more, and this time there was no need for the shown by Sehwag’s scoring pattern. umpire to even raise his finger as Usually a batsman who loves the boundaries, and isn’t the keenest the deviation was so clear. between the wickets, Sehwag had to Victory run 30 of his 52 and was regularly looking for the quick single, instead Three wickets in hand, and 17 to of the massive hit out of the park. get off the final two overs on a He was the only one of the difficult track. Not a problem for Daredevils batting stars to get to Agarkar, who carved an inside-out double-digits: Mahela Jayawardene lofted off drive for four in the guided a half-volley to short fine penultimate over, before crashing a leg, Ross Taylor missed a straighter low full toss for four on the first ball one from Michael Beer and Kevin of the final over to ease Daredevils Pietersen miscued to backward towards victory. point.

INDIAN Davis Cup player Vishnu Vardhan, who is the top seed at the USD 15,000 CCI-ITF Futures tennis tournament, has set his sights on improving his ATP ranking to at least 240 in singles.

The 25-year-old sixfooter from Secunderabad, ranked 267 in the world going into the 13th Futures event conducted in India, said his main aim is to improve his ranking ahead of the Australian Open in January 2013.

“I will be focusing both on singles and doubles, more on the singles. In singles my aim is to dip under 240 so that I get a chance to play in the Australian Open qualifiers. In doubles I want to break into the top 200,” said Vishnu during a media interaction at the Cricket Club of India.

•STAYING PUT Mohammad Hafeez has backing

THE Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has no intention of removing Mohammad Hafeez as Twenty20 captain but was clearly unhappy with his unilateral and nonconsultative approach while making selection decisions.

Hafeez met PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf during the board’s executive coordination committee, which took stock of Pakistan’s ICC world Twenty20 campaign, and clarified his position on the issue of rift between him and senior all-rounder Abdul Razzaq during the World Twenty20.

“The interesting part is when the Razzaq issue came up, Hafeez claimed it was a collective decision by the team management and coach Dav Whatmore also supported him in his argument,” a PCB source told PTI. But some members of the committee had firm views that Hafeez was too dominating during the whole tournament.

THE first woman to lead a Formula One team has another reason to look forward to the Indian Grand Prix next week — it’s in her home country.

The 41-year-old Monisha Kaltenborn was promoted from Sauber’s chief executive to its team principal last week. Her main focus is ensuring the Switzerland-based team improves on its four podium finishes this season.

“The Indian GP is a race like any other, with the same meticulous preparations and the same aspiration to achieve the best possible result,” Kaltenborn said in a Sauber statement. “From a personal point of view, it’s rather different. Obviously, I’m particularly looking forward to this race in my home country.”

Sauber is sixth in the F1 constructors’ standings on 116 points, 251 behind leader Red Bull, and Kaltenborn believes the team can rise at least one spot with four races left in the season.

“Our ambitious goal remains to finish fifth in the constructors’ world championship,” she said. “And I have the utmost confidence, both in our team at Hinwil and in the crew at the track along with our two drivers, Kamui Kobayashi and Sergio Perez.

“Of course, there have been races where things didn’t go to plan and we forfeited valuable points.”

Perez is 10th and Kobayashi 11th in the drivers’ standings.

Kaltenborn moved from India to Austria when she was 8. She later earned a master’s law degree before joining Sauber in 1999, where she was promoted to CEO in 2010 and became a 33-percent partner in the team five months ago. Peter Sauber’s retirement last week elevated Kaltenborn to her new role.

Kaltenborn said F1 can do well in India despite cricket being the country’s main sporting obsession.

“Basically, it’s difficult for any sport to find a place in India next to cricket. But I do think that the interest in Formula One has risen significantly since its debut last year,” Kaltenborn said. “At least the media interest we are experiencing would strongly indicate that.”

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Asian City October 25 - November 7, 2012

AsianCity

Dev fears for India

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•MOBBED Amir Khan with reporters

Khan goads Brook AMIR Khan has told Kell Brook he still has plenty to prove, despite a three-round demolition of Hector Saldivia on Saturday.

Brook is now the No. 1 contender for Devon Alexander’s IBF welterweight crown, and has also expressed a desire to face Khan.

However, Khan - who has lost his last two fights - does not feel his fellow Brit is worthy of his attention.

“Well done Kell,” Khan tweeted. “Did what he had to. Time to move up in game. He’s been saying this for the past 10 fights. Before you think of fighting me or Ricky [Hatton], PROVE yourself (against someone in the top 50).” Meanwhile, Ricky Hatton has also raised doubts over the quality of Saldivia, who had only been beaten twice before stepping into the ring with Brook.

•WIN Kell Brook on his way to victory over Hector Saldivia

•OUT OF FORM Sehwag and Gambhir have struggled recently

FORMER India cricket captain Kapil Dev today conceded that the form slump of senior openers Gautam Gambhir and Virender Sehwag is a big worry for the team ahead of the twin Test series against England and Australia.

“Of course, it is a cause of worry if players of that calibre don’t get runs.

They have big reputations and when you have such big reputations then there is a case for you to defend that,” Kapil said on the sidelines of the Junior National tennis Championships where he was chief guest for the finals.

“They are big players and it is important for them to score runs not only for the team but also for themselves otherwise there will be worrying signs,” he added.

Both Gambhir and Sehwag struggled at the recent World Twenty20 Championships but remain India’s best opening option ahead of the upcoming home series against England next month and Australia which will take place in February-March.

Kapil sidestepped queries on the issue of whether Sachin Tendulkar should retire from international cricket.

“Bade player ke baare mein na hi baat karein to accha hai (It is better not to talk about the decisions of big players),” he said.

“He had recently given an interview and he has said what he had to say,” he added referring to Tendulkar’s statement that he would reassess his plans next month.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE TWENTY-20

DHONI ON FORM Captain aids win over Yorkshire

KOLKATA OUT OF CLT20 HAD it not been for the washed-out game against Perth Scorchers, reigning IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders could have made the semi-finals of the ongoing Champions League Twenty20, said senior all-rounder Jacques Kallis.

KKR, however, went out of the CLT20 with a bang thrashing in-form Titans by 99 runs in their final Group A game, and Kallis said it was “pity” that the Kolkata outfit did not start the tournament on perfect note.

“It’s a pity we didn’t start off the tournament like this. I felt that we started playing some good cricket in Durban (against the Perth Scorchers) but unfortunately the weather stopped us from getting through to the next round. That was disappointing,” Kallis said after the win over Titans.

“This was almost a perfect game for us. We came out and batted really well and paced the innings nicely. There were some fantastic individual knocks and then we bowled with the intensity we needed to bowl with.

“This was a nice way to end this campaign. The guys now go away to different parts of the globe and will play for different teams. Hopefully, they gain form again in time for the IPL.”

CHENNAI Super Kings produced a clinical all-round show as they scored a comfortable fourwicket victory over Yorkshire to sign off their Champions League Twenty20 campaign with a win.

•VICTORY Mahendra Singh Dhoni

Opting to field, Chennai restricted Yorkshire to 140 for six on the back of impressive bowling from pacers Albie Morkel (2/12) and Doug Bollinger (2/16)and then romped home with six balls to spare in the inconsequential Group B match at Kingsmead.

S Badrinath top-scored with a 38-ball 47 which he made with the help of four boundaries while Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who played under Suresh Raina’s captaincy in the match, made 31 from 23 balls. Raina himself contributed 31 from 30 balls.

Chennai, the 2010 champions, ended third in Group B with eight points behind Sydney Sixers and Highveld Lions, the two teams who made it to the semifinals.

Wriddhiman Saha, who kept wickets in the match as Dhoni also

decided not to wear the wicketkeeper’s gloves, hit the winning run -- a single -- as Chennai reached 141 for six on the last ball of the 19th over.

Target Chasing 141 for a win, Chennai did not have the best of starts as they lost opener Faf du Plessis (1) in the second over of the bowling of Steven Patterson. The other opener Murali Vijay (13) struck two fours in the next over before he was out in the fifth over.

Chennai were then at a wobbly 26 for two but Raina and Badrinath settled down quickly and shared a 48-run stand for the third wicket from 6.9 overs to take Chennai closer to the target.

Raina fell in the 12th over with Hannon-Dalby taking his second wicket with a slower ball. Raina struck a four and a six in his 30-ball knock. Dhoni came in when his side were 74 for three in the 12th over and he was watchful for a while before easing himself off with a six off Adil Rashid in the 15th over.