Asian Standard Edition 12

Om Puri : A beloved Actor, Gone Too Soon!

The law should protect all victims of domestic violence – but women need it most

Page 19

Page 16

INTERVIEW Bollywood’s new gen star Shraddha Kapoor discusses Aditya Roy Kapur and next release Ok Jaanu AS Weekender

By the publishers of Asian Sunday

Issue 12 | 10- 15 January 2017

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Family and friends fight back crime allegations against ‘‘formidable gangster” killed in M62 shooting.

More on page 6 & 7

HAPPY NEW YEAR! FROM EVERYONE AT ASIAN STANDARD

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Name row erupts between Singhbury's and Sainsbury's CONTACT US Asian Standard Newspaper

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EDITOR

Shop-owners Inderjit Singh Nagpal and Manmeed Singh Bhatia are locked in a naming row with one of Britain's biggest retail chains, Sainsbury's, after they decided to name their local store in south-east England Singhbury's.

Co-owners Nagpal and Bhatia had put up the "Singhbury's Local" sign on their store in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, last February.

The lettering and colour were very similar to supermarket chain Sainsbury's Local signs across the UK. "The first part of the name is Singh, for our names, and the second is bury for Aylesbury. We used the colour orange because that is the colour of our Sikh religion," claimed Nagpal.

After pictures of the store began circulating on social media, they were contacted by Sainsbury's to take down the sign.

"There were no legal proceedings around this but we did contact the owners after customers raised their concerns with us," a Sainsbury's spokesperson said.

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The Singhs' store has been without a sign since October last year.

The co-owners say that while they are willing to change the colour of any new sign, they have full justification

to hold on to the name.

A decision between their legal representative and Sainsbury's is expected later this month.

Pakistani man goes coconuts, as smashes record-breaking number of coconuts with his head A Pakistani man has set a new record by smashing 43 coconuts with his head in just 60 seconds.

Thirty-year-old Rashid Naseem told reporters he had been preparing for the record attempt for over six months. “It took a lot of preparation.

I had to work hard on my strength because breaking a coconut by head butting can be painful,” said Naseem.

Naseem runs a martial arts training school in Karachi. “Fresh coconuts are hard to break. So, when I started

my training and began hitting coconuts on my head, I used to get splitting headaches,” he said. “It felt like a dangerous thing to do in the beginning. But with proper training, I was eventually able to strengthen myself enough to do this.”

This is not the first time Naseem has broken a record. Last year, he smashed 210 walnuts with his head in one minute. He also claims to be a record holder for crushing the highest number of drink cans. Naseem aims to make 50 records and make his country proud

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NEWS

Good news for rotten teeth. New drug ‘helps rotten teeth grow back’ According to, recent trials a new treatment has been devised that could potentially bring teeth back from the brink of ruin.

It’s good news all round for those who dislike seeing the dentist as this could make dental cements obsolete, which is a good thing because they’re known to weaken the teeth, cause infections and lead to larger cavities, hence no more need to visit the dentist.

Instead of another cement filling, a biodegradable sponge will be soaked in a drug, called tideglusib, which is deigned to target tooth decay.

In an interview with The Guardian Professor Paul Sharpe, who led the work at King’s College London, said: ‘Almost everyone on the planet has tooth decay at some time – it’s a massive volume of people being treated. We’ve deliberately tried to make something really simple, really quick and really cheap.’

After it’s been left in there for a while, the tooth will start to rebuild itself, according to scientists.

Tideglusib stimulates stem cells in the centre of the tooth.

These cells then develop into odontoblasts (specialised tooth cells).

Sharpe said that fillings will do the job, but you are essentially replacing a ‘living tissue with an inert cement’

This boosts the production of dentine, which allows larger defects to be reversed naturally.

But there’s bad news, it won’t completely eliminate the need for a drill because dentists still have to remove all that decay first (sorry).

The drug is also being used as a potential Alzheimer’s treatment.

The findings were published in the Scientific Reports.

Emirates flight gets cancelled thanks to slithering passenger.

An Emirates flight was cancelled – due to a snake on the plane. Flight EK0863 from Muscat, Oman, to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, was aborted after a snake was discovered in the cargo hold before take-off.

to Dubai on January 8, 2017, was cancelled due to a detection of a snake in the cargo hold prior to passengers boarding.

famous for Samuel L Jackson’s line ‘I have had it with these mother****** snakes on this mother****** plane’.

The carrier told media that the serpent was found before passengers boarded.

'Engineering and cleaning teams are working to clear the aircraft to re-enter service. We apologise for the inconvenience caused.’

A serpent also caused a scare on a plane last November – but this one made an appearance mid-flight.

It said in a statement: ‘Emirates can confirm that flight EK0863 from Muscat

The situation echoed the 2006 movie Snakes On A Plane, a film most

It dropped from an overhead baggage compartment on an AeroMexico flight from Torreon to Mexico City.

Witness Indalecio Medina commented on social media at the time: ‘I had to catch it with a blanket and obviously we gave it some magazines to read for a while.

'The snake arrived alive and kicking, frightened but without having paid its airfare.

'And best of all, priority when it came to landing and animal control experts waiting for the unexpected traveller.'

It has been reported that the flight had priority landing and the snake was dealt with by animal control.

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NEWS

Two men arrested after girl, 15, died from eating Indian takeaway Two workers at an Indian restaurant have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter after a girl, 15, died from eating a curry.

Standards and Environmental Health as part of our inquiries into Megan’s death. Her family are being kept fully updated with the progress of the investigation.

Schoolgirl Megan Lee, 15, had a severe allergic reaction and died on January 1 this year, two days after eating the food.

‘Our thoughts remain with the family of the girl at this extremely sad and difficult time.’

The suspects, who worked at the restaurant near her home in Lancashire, are aged 37 and 38 and have been held over allegations of involuntary manslaughter by gross negligence.

The men, held on suspicion of involuntary manslaughter by gross negligence are believed to be staff at the Royal Spice Indian takeaway on Union Road.

Megan, from Oswaldtwistle, near Accrington, lived with father Adam, 35, a football coach, and finance company worker mother Gemma, 33, and was said to ‘touch the hearts of everyone she ever met’.

Megan, described as a ‘Perfect Princess’, is believed to have had a nut allergy which led to her becoming seriously ill.

The aspiring actress was rushed to the Royal Blackburn Hospital but doctors couldn’t save her.

In a statement issued through police, her parents described her as ‘a role model, an inspiration, our princess, our Megan.

The full results of a post mortem examination are not yet known.

In a statement, Lancashire Police said: ‘Two men have been arrested as part of the on-going investigation into the sudden death of a girl from Oswaldtwistle. ’15-year-old Megan Lee had eaten food from an Indian takeaway in Hyndburn on Friday 30 December

15 year old Megan Lee before suffering an apparent allergic reaction.

taken place however the full results are still not fully known.

‘A post mortem examination to establish the cause of her death has

‘We are working closely in liaison with colleagues from Trading

‘Our hearts are shattered at the sudden loss of our beautiful daughter.

‘Megan was the kindest, most loving daughter and sister, who always wore the most beautiful and infectious smile. May we kindly request that our privacy is respected at this devastating time.’

VW, Audi or Seat owners past and present could be entitled to £3,000 compensation The emissions scandal could cost Volkswagen billions of pounds after 10,000 motorists joined a lawsuit against the car firm.

VW, Audi, Seat and Skoda owners (past and present) could be awarded between £3,000 and £4,000 on average for affected vehicles, lawyers said.

It’s all the result of a decision Volkswagen Group took to fit 11 million

(1.2m in the UK) of its vehicles with defeat device software.

This switched engines to a cleaner mode when they were being tested for emissions.

Damon Parker, head of litigation at Harcus Sinclair UK, said: ‘It is only right that UK car owners affected by the scandal have the opportunity to seek compensation.

‘We have secured funding so that those affected can bring this claim against VW at no cost to themselves.’

Volkswagen has already agreed a $15 billion (£11b) settlement with US authorities and owners of affected vehicles.

It emerged last month the UK was one of four countries facing legal action by the European Union for not imposing

penalties on Volkswagen over the issue.

For those interested in joining the lawsuit Harcus Sinclair has set up a website vwemissionsaction.com which provides further information. The application for the group litigation order will be heard in the High Court on January 30.

It is only right that UK car owners affected by the scandal have the opportunity to seek compensation.

We have secured funding so that those affected can bring this claim against VW at no cost to themselves. Damon Parker, head of litigation at Harcus Sinclair UK

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COVER STORY

Family and friends fight back crime allegations against ‘‘formidable gangster” in M62 shooting.

By Staff Reporter

FAMILY and friends of the M62 police shooting victim have hit back at accusations he was a drug lord gangster. A Facebook page called ‘Justice 4 Mohammed Yassar Yaqub’ has also been set up and has reached more than 7000 likes within a week.

Mohammed Yassar Yaqub, 28, was killed on 2 January when a police officer fatally shot him in the chest in a “pre-planned operation” near Huddersfield, West Yorks.

Mr Yaqub, from Crosland Moor, was described by some as a ‘good role model’ but by others as a ‘formidable gangster’.

His family and friends however, maintain that he was liked and respected.

In an interview with the Huddersfield Examiner, father Mohammed Yaqub, claimed that the police are guilty of committing a “pre-planned assassination” against his son.

In a video, he told the Huddersfield Daily Examiner at his home that his son was “a very good and loving son who was loved by many people in the community”.

Yaqub added: “He was a very kindhearted man who would do anything

for anyone. If I had the chance I would have the same son.”

In response to allegations his son was a drug dealer, he replied: “I don’t think he was a threat at all.

“I think he was cornered, shot instantly without warning.

“He had no convictions for firearms or drugs, only minor assault. I believe he was targeted, a pre-planned assassination.”

In 2010, he was cleared of attempted murder and a firearms offence after it was alleged that he opened fire on two men in a car in Huddersfield.

Yaqub, 21 at the time was in court accused of attempting to murder two men in Birkby in September, 2009.

It was claimed Mr Yaqub had been one of the gunmen who opened fire on a car being driven along Birkby Hall Road.

A trial at Bradford Crown Court heard that after the incident the damaged Vauxhall Corsa was found to have a large hole in the front bonnet. Around 140 pellets from a shotgun had also struck the vehicle.

The prosecution case against Mr Yaqub however, was thrown by Judge Geoffrey Marson QC. Judge Marson was asked to review

I think he was cornered, shot instantly without warning. He had no convictions for firearms or drugs, only minor assault.

I believe he was targeted, a pre-planned assassination.

Mohammed Yaqub

28 year old Yassar Yaqub

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COVER STORY “inconsistencies” in the evidence of a witness and stressed that the case was an identification one and there was a need for special caution.

He told the court: “I regard his evidence as being dangerous and it cannot safely, in my view, be left to the jury even if there is some evidence capable of supporting his identification.”

After discharging the jury the judge formally recorded not guilty verdicts on the two charges of attempted murder and one of possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life which Yaqub had denied.

Since the incident large banners have appeared next to the spot where the 28 year old was shot dead accusing the police of the ‘unlawful killing’ of Mohammed Yassar Yaqub.

Protests on the ‘unlawful killing’

We may never know who was the real Mohammed Yassar Yaqub but a full investigation is underway by the Independent Police Complaints Commission.

In a statement, the IPCC said that Mr Yaqub, 28, of Crosland Moor, was “shot by a West Yorkshire Police firearms officer at around 6pm on Monday (2 January) evening after two vehicles were stopped on a sliproad off junction 24 of the M62 near Huddersfield during a planned police operation.”

It said IPCC investigators “are continuing to gather information and build a picture of the events that unfolded.”

Investigators have conducted house to house enquiries in the local area and are appealing for any witnesses to contact them either by email: M62incident@ipcc.gsi.gov.uk or telephone on 0800 096 9072.

police vehicles.

The statement added: “A non-police issue firearm, found in the Audi, was secured in the presence of IPCC investigators at the scene and is undergoing ballistics and forensic testing.

“Forensic tests are also being carried out on the two vehicles stopped and an unmarked police car. None of the police officers involved were wearing body worn video cameras. So far no relevant CCTV footage of the incident has been found.”

IPCC Commissioner Derrick Campbell said: “I would like to reassure the local and wider community that this will be a thorough and detailed independent investigation. We will be carefully examining all the circumstances leading up to Mr Yaqub’s death, including the planning of the police operation, and the actions of the officers involved that evening.

“I am, of course, aware there are many unanswered questions but I would urge patience at this time and that people allow our investigation to run its course.

“If anyone witnessed events who has not yet come forward we would be grateful to hear from them. We are making steady, positive progress, and are continuing to build a picture of what exactly happened. We are in contact with Mr Yaqub’s family and will be keeping them updated.”

An inquest in Bradford last Friday also heard that the gun was found in the passenger footwell.

were also held in Bradford, on Leeds Road last week which brought traffic to a standstill with reports of small disruptions.

Waheed Akhtar, a family friend who grew up with Yaqub, told the Guardian “People do want answers. Apart from the things that happened in Bradford, it has been quite calm.

The IPCC said that the two vehicles stopped by police on the sliproad were a white Volkswagen Scirocco and a white Audi in which Mr Yaqub was travelling.

Police officers involved in the incident were travelling in four unmarked

Meanwhile, a man arrested as part of the operation in which Yaqub was shot appeared in court on the day of the inquest charged with two counts of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and possession of ammunition. He was remanded in custody to appear before a crown court judge next month. Police have maintained that the incident is not related to terrorism.

I would like to reassure the local and wider community that this will be a thorough and detailed independent investigation. We will be carefully examining all the circumstances leading up to Mr Yaqub’s death, including the planning of the police operation, and the actions of the officers involved that evening. IPCC Commissioner Derrick Campbell

“People will be patient to a certain extent. The questions need to be answered as soon as possible. Them parents have lost their son, them sisters have lost their brother. They need answers. His friends, family, they all need answers and they need answers quick.”

Akhtar said he did not believe the portrayal of Yaqub as a gun-carrying drug dealer: “He was not like that from what I know of him. It’s far off the mark. No one’s perfect, are they? But from what I knew of him he wasn’t like that. The amount of people here today shows how much of a popular person he was. He was a really nice man, his family’s really well respected, his family are really nice.”

A neighbour however, described Mr Yaqub as a “formidable gangster” She has lived on the street for 18 years and said he was well-known for his drug dealing and for “carrying a baseball bat in his car whenever he went out”.

She said the CCTV cameras which monitored activity at the family home were installed after the house was shot at, pointing out the spot where the bullet holes had been allegedly plastered over.

Large banners have appeared next to the spot where the 28 year old was shot dead accusing the police of the ‘unlawful killing’ of Mohammed Yassar Yaqub.

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NEWS

Husband punishes woman by ‘sticking 40cm rolling pin in her as punishment for being infertile’ A woman almost died after her husband stuck a 40cm rolling pin inside her intestines as punishment for being infertile, it has been claimed.

x-ray as wooden materials cannot be identified. The internal damage she suffered was very serious and she could have died.

The 38-year-old was rushed to hospital in Haldwani, in northern India, on Christmas Day complaining of severe abdominal pains and swelling.

‘The size of the rolling pin was around 40cm long which is a big size to be inserted into a human body.’

She reluctantly told medics that her husband had tortured her for being infertile three days before and threatened to kill her if she told anybody about the ordeal.

It was only after a team of five doctors operating on her that they discovered the rolling pin inside her intestines.

The husband and wife, both from Nepal, had come to the hospital together.

Dr Kedar Singh Shahi, a general surgeon at the hospital, told reporters: ‘We were very shocked. We did not expect anything like this.

‘We could only see a shadow in the

As the woman could not elaborate on what happened to her, the hospital informed police and the National Commission for Women (NCW).

Amita Lokhani, vice-chairperson of NCW, said: ‘The matter came to me a day after the operation.

‘The woman was in a terrible condition when I first visited her. She was not only in pain but terrified to speak to anyone.

Doctors discovered this 40cm rolling pin wedged in the woman’s intestines

‘I tried asking her what had happened but she did not say a word and kept crying. Her husband was present at the time.

the third day while her husband was away.

‘I continued visiting her for three days and eventually she opened up on

‘She told me she was infertile and her husband often tortured her.’

The man is now reported to be on the run after being charged with rape and grievous bodily harm.

Can you cope without the internet for 24 hours? Well you might find you will have to at some point in 2017 according to an expert.

Us technology vendor LogRhythm has predicted that millions of computer users around the world face being blocked from the internet at some point in 2017 as the global network shuts down for 24 hours.

The company’s chief information security officer and VP James Carder told Business Insider that it won’t just be a technical issue, but more likely the work of sophisticated criminal minds.

He told the Insider that in 2017, we’re going to see it hit big sometime, somewhere. If the internet goes down, financial markets will tank.

The security expert went on to say that the last 12 months have had strong indicators that something this catastrophic would actually be possible for sharp criminal minds.

‘We saw the massive [distributed denial of service] against DynDNS just

a couple of months ago ‘That DDoS attack took down sites like Twitter and Spotify for a few hours.

We saw a similar DDoS hit Brian Krebs before the attack against Dyn. These were really just tests.’

He added: ‘If you can prove that you can take down massive sites and a large chunk of the US internet for a few hours, a 24-hour outage seems pretty easy to do.’

The company has also addressed the increasing problem of ‘fake news’ which has infiltrated the worldwide web more vigorously over the last year.

LogRhythm’s Australia and New Zealand director of sales Simon Howe predicts that this will only get worse in 2017, with hackers setting their sights on major media outlets.

‘The power of influence is starting to shift away from mainstream news outlets, and I don’t think that is something those mainstream outlets can afford to let happen. They will respond to the fake news threat by trying to implement some level of media control that will likely take it a little too far.

‘I think hackers, in the name of protecting our freedom of speech, will retaliate by knocking down a major media outlet or two.’

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FEATURE

How do we negotiate Brexit?

by MO BHANA

elaborate.

mo@asian-standard.co.uk

Access to the single market

“Brexit,” we have been told repeatedly, “means Brexit.”

In a few weeks this proclamation will become redundant.

The triggering of Article 50 - the formal process which begins the two-year period for negotiating withdrawal - means the Prime Minister will have to start explaining what her plans are, how she intends to achieve them and over what timescale.

The scale of the challenge should not be underestimated.

More than 40 years of EU directives, laws and treaties have to be untangled and then new rules and trade agreements put in their place.

There will be many hurdles facing Prime Minister, Theresa May when Article 50 is triggered.

Allow the Asian Standard to

The Prime Minister has said she wants the “best possible access” to the single market.

The single market is based on the four principles of free movement of goods, people, services and money.

This means member states can trade freely within the single market without having to pay tariffs while operating under shared rules and standards.

The Prime Minister has said the vote to leave means there must be an end to free movement of people - the right of an EU citizen to live and work in any other member state.

EU leaders have so far said that they are not willing to compromise on any of the four principles.

This is the circle Britain needs to square in the forthcoming

negotiations: how to retain access to the single market and end freedom of movement.

The Chancellor, Philip Hammond has spoken of negotiating access on a sector by sector basis, meaning that we could carve out, for example, a deal for our financial services and a different one for manufacturing.

The problem to this approach is it means the government picking between winners and losers. Smaller sectors, such as agriculture, could find themselves worse off.

Do we stay in the Customs Union?

The customs union is the outer shell around the EU. The single market allows free trade within the EU, the customs union sets the conditions for trade with countries outside that circle.

The advantage of the customs union is it sets common taxes and tariffs for all imports into the EU.

For example, if you are building a car with components produced outside the EU there are set tariffs on those components and common standards.

Outside the customs union the UK would have abide by “rules of origin” for all exports to the EU. This means firms wanting to export to the EU could have to produce paperwork showing every component in a car, for example, complied with EU tariffs and taxes and was not bought at a cheaper price that undermined competition.

Withdrawing from the customs union poses a particular problem for the UK as we have an open border with the Irish Republic. If the UK leaves, this could mean having to impose customs checks on goods between Northern Ireland and the Republic.

The downside to the customs union is that the UK has to abide by import tariffs set by Brussels.

Outside the EU, we can agree our own tariffs with non-EU nations, potentially cutting the costs of

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FEATURE imports and exports.

The UK Government is anxious to protect the rights of the estimated 1.3million UK citizens living in other EU countries. Then there is the question of the 3.2 million EU nationals living in the UK.

Divorce is not cheap An unwelcome headache of any divorce is the cost. After 40 years of membership Britain has become deeply entwined in the forest of Brussels’ bureaucracy.

Cutting loose means we have pay alimony for outstanding liabilities such as pensions. There is speculation this could be as much as £50 billion but that could be an opening ploy by the EU as it prepares for Brexit negotiations.

Economically the cost is not insurmountable if spread over a long period but it is politically awkward as it would eat into the £350million the Leave campaign spuriously claimed we could save each week by quitting the EU.

One possibility is a cut off date, perhaps back dated to the June 23 referendum last year, which guarantees those rights to EU nationals living in the country before then.

Those who voted to take back control are unlikely to welcome a situation where we are still having to pay money to Brussels but have no say on how the rules are made.

Time is against us

To enforce this could require handing them either a special passport or ID card or forcing them to show proof of residency. This raises questions about the ability of the Home Office and its agencies to process that many claims.

Once Article 50 is triggered in March Britain and the EU then have two years to negotiate our exit.

But the timescale will be nearer to 18 months as any deal has to ratified by the European Parliament which will want to see the details by October 2018 at the latest.

The Government will not want to provoke any tit-for-tat regulation that penalises UK citizens living overseas.

Given the complexity of the negotiations few believe a deal can be struck in this time.

And Britain cannot agree any trade deals with non EU countries until it has left the bloc.

This is why Theresa May will want a transition deal that allows the UK to continue operating under EU trade laws until a final deal is sealed.

The EU have sensed an opportunity here. They are looking to prioritise talks on the UK’s outstanding liabilities ahead of any transition arrangement.

Prime Minister Theresa May Their reasoning is the longer they delay transition the more likely businesses will move from the UK to the other 27 EU states.

Immigration?

The prospects for hundreds of thousands of UK nationals living in places such as Benidorm is uncertain.

There is one issue both sides agree on: neither Britons living on the continent nor EU nationals in the UK

The Prime Minister has said the vote to leave means there must be an end to free movement of people - the right of an EU citizen to live and work in any other member state.

EU leaders have so far said that they are not willing to compromise on any of the four principles.

should be used as “bargaining chips.”

The UK Government is anxious to protect the rights of the estimated 1.3million UK citizens living in other EU countries.

Then there is the question of the 3.2 million EU nationals living in the UK. It is not clear after Brexit if they will retain the right to reside, work, claim free healthcare and draw indexlinked pensions.

to face justice and has allowed the UK to extradite some 7,000 criminals to other member states.

The Schengen Information System gives police forces across the EU real time alerts on suspects, stolen vehicles and firearms, while ECRIS obliges courts to alert the member state if they convict one of their nationals.

The problem for the UK is some of these measures are overseen by the European Court of Justice (ECJ).

Insecurity

Mrs May will have some leverage in the negotiations because of the strong reputation of the UK’s police and security agencies. Other countries will not want to lose that expertise.

Thanks to our membership of the EU the UK participates in and has access to a range of organisations and measures that help fight crime and terrorism.

While we may be able to replicate arrangements with some of these crime fighting organisations post Brexit, we may have to accept ECJ governance to partake in others.

These include the European Arrest Warrant, the Schengen Information System, the European Criminal Records Information System (ECRIS), Eurojust and Europol.

The Brexiteers will have to weigh up their hatred of the ECJ and the consequent loss of sovereignty with the political backlash which could occur if a British citizen falls victim to a crime because we have withdrawn from cross-border cooperation.

Since 2004 the European Arrest Warrant has been used to extradite more than 1,000 criminals to the UK

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OBITUARY

Om Puri : A beloved Actor, Gone Too Soon!

by AYESHA BABAR ayesha@asian-standard.co.uk

“I have no regrets at all. I have done quite well for myself. I didn’t have a conventional face, but I have done well, and I am proud of it. I have been in the film industry for 35 years, and everyone, including the spotboys, will vouch for my character”, tweeted Om Puri, two weeks ago, as he reflected on his career that had spanned the better part of four decades. No one else could have summarised his life and career in better words because when all is done and forgotten, Om Puri would always be remembered as the guy who stood by his beliefs through all odds; his belief in good cinema, in humanity and in setting the benchmark high for the generations of actors to follow. His contributions have been recognised by the Indian Government with a Padma Shri in 1990 and an OBE in 2004.

After completing his education at the prestigious Film and Television Institute of India, Pune, and the National School of Drama, Om Puri started his cinematic journey in 1976 with Marathi cinema. It did not take Puri long to establish himself, for within a few years he started getting wide recognition for his acting talent with films like Arohan (1980), Aakrosh (1980) and Ardh Satya (1983) coming his way.

The two national awards he won for Best Actor (for Arohan and Ardh Satya) further cemented his place among the torchbearers of the great art cinema movement. This was the time when Om Puri, Naseerudin Shah, Smita Patel, Shabana Azmi, Amrish Puri and a handful of other star-actors experimented with new subjects and presented a brave, new face of Indian cinema. This was also the time when Om Puri starred in one of my personal favourites, Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, a satirical comedy with an ensemble cast including Naseerudin Shah, Satish Kaushik and Satish Shah. The film looked at the corruption within the different arms of the state as well as the media and became a fine example of the kind of work that Puri aspired to put his name against.

Puri, who was born in Ambala in the state of Haryana, was one of the most successful actors to

I have no regrets at all. I have done quite well for myself. I didn’t have a conventional face, but I have done well, and I am proud of it. I have been in the film industry for 35 years, and everyone, including the spot-boys, will vouch for my character

emerge from India as he established a name for himself and his craft in Hollywood, Pakistani cinema and most notably British cinema.

Through the 1990’s Om Puri became a go to actor with a reputation for giving top notch performances, with landmark films like City of Joy (1992), Wolf (1994) where he starred with Jack Nicholson, My Son the Fanatic (1997) and of course, East is East (1999), the cult classic that made Puri’s character, George Khan, a household name. As Mr. Khan, the

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OBITUARY Pakistani immigrant married to a British woman, with a family of seven kids, all struggling with their mixedethnicity identity, Puri portrayed to perfection a man torn between his roots and his family’s aspirations.

In 2007’s Charlie Wilson’s War which also starred Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts, he played General Zia-ul-

regret. He said he followed a simple principle in life that he applied to his career as well – ‘do your best with the opportunities that you have, and just remember that at the end of the day, being a good person and being truthful to yourself and your work is all that counts’. As he narrated anecdotes from the first

Om Puri with Dame Helen Mirren

time he travelled abroad to shoot to the time that he had street food in Pakistan, I could see that here was a man who had led his life on his own terms and yet managed to share so much love with those around him in both his professional and personal life. What I remember most fondly about that day is his vivacious laughter. His humility and frankness in answering my questions and breaking into a Punjabi joke and then moments later confirming if I could actually understand the language, almost made me forget that I was speaking to Om Puri, the legend.

In that conversation, he was just a man sharing his life’s experiences and thoughts about what he loved the most: his craft. We parted with a promise to sit down again when he would be promoting his next movie.

When I heard of his demise this morning, I could not hold back the tears for I knew what I had missed out on. I will be watching some of my favourite Om Puri clips today, as I try and make sense of the loss. I pray that he may rest in peace; his will be a legacy that will not be forgotten for a long, long time to come.

Do your best with the opportunities that you have, and just remember that at the end of the day, being a good person and being truthful to yourself and your work is all that counts Haq to much critical acclaim. Puri’s last major work in the west was The Hundred Foot Journey where he played the lead role opposite Dame Helen Mirren.

Closer to home, Om Puri has been one of the most esteemed icons of Indian cinema. Over the decades, he has been a part of some of the biggest films in memorable roles that have stayed with audiences long after. From Chachi 420, to Maachis, Maqbool (the Hindi adaptation of Macbeth), Dev, Don, OMG: Oh My God! and Bajrangi Bhaijan, Om Puri was such a versatile actor that he never struggled to remain relevant.

In Pakistan, the actor got rave reviews for his performance in Actor In Law, one of the country’s biggest commercial hits of 2016.

During the film’s promotional tour, I was fortunate enough to have the privilege of interviewing him.

I remember that he was extremely fatigued, having been in and out of interviews and been on the road, and yet he did not let that come in the way of a great conversation.

He was gracious and full of stories about his time on the film set and his journey thus far. I sometimes feel that the roles he was offered in the latter part of his career could not do justice to his talent. When I put it to him, I did not notice even a trace of

Om Puri in the film East is East

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HEALTH

Taking up running? Here’s what you need to know to make it to February

By Vybarr Cregan-Reid Reader in Environmental Humanities and Author of ‘Footnotes: How running makes us human’, University of Kent

If the statistics are correct, many millions of new runners have laced up for the first time in the last few days. If you are one of them, then, you are well on your way to being faster, stronger, more resilient, more intelligent and more empathetic than when you awoke on New Year’s Day nursing little more than a hangover and a firm resolution. So, with such great rewards in the pipeline, why do millions of us fail in those first critical weeks? It’s because, for the body, the first month of new training is so booby-trapped that Lara Croft would find the obstacles tricky to negotiate.

Read on and you might just make it safely to February, and beyond.

On your very first run your body will have become suddenly aware that it needs to remodel to match its new training loads. Our muscular system

responds to training easily, and can repair and rebuild in a matter of days.

And, because the heart and lungs are part of this system they too will improve rapidly. After just a few runs, the cardiorespiratory system will become more efficient making you feel fitter and stronger. And this is at the core of where most new runners get into trouble. The tragedy is that other soft structures, connective tissues like tendons and ligaments, are just as weak as when you stepped out for your very first run. They are slower to repair and remodel than muscles, and about ten days in to your new regime, they will probably have completed the adaptation from only your first run.

The Goldilocks Threshold For training to work effectively, soft tissues have to be strained and slightly damaged to what I’m going to call a Goldilocks Threshold. If soft tissues are not stressed by training, they will not adapt at all (but this is never the case for new runners). If

they are too stressed (almost always the case for new runners) then you will only be as strong as your weakest link, and wherever that is, that will be the first thing to go.

In the first few weeks of a new exercise regime, you need to bear in mind that your tendons and ligaments are at least ten to 14 days behind how strong you might be feeling on any given day.

Our muscular system responds to training easily, and can repair and rebuild in a matter of days. And, because the heart and lungs are part of this system they too will improve rapidly.

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And if you’ve been careful, and made it through the first fortnight without imposing too many new demands on tendons that are still struggling to adapt, there is another process that is even slower.

Ever since the 19th century, we have had Wolff’s Law to tell us that our bones adapt over time to increased loading. Imposing new demands on bones stimulates them to remodel.

Called mechanotransduction, bones convert the physical indicators of the forces and stresses placed upon them into chemical ones that stimulate the bones to repair, first by breaking down their existing structures and then by rebuilding stronger ones. But this is a much slower process than with soft and connective tissues.

While it may be surprising to learn that two weeks into your new training schedule your bones are basically still those of a non-runner, the news is actually worse than this. Bone remodelling requires that some of the structure is destroyed (by a cell called an osteoclast) before it can be rebuilt.

So, during your third week of running, feeling fitter and stronger, with some soft tissue adaptation beginning to take place, your bones are for a short period actually weaker than when you first started. By the fourth week, your bones will have succeeded to adapting to your first week’s run and so will be a little stronger. But they are always going to be a few weeks

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behind because contrary to popular belief running is very good for our bones, but density adaptation is comparatively slow.

With these processes in a constant and unsynchronised cycle, the new jogger has to be vigilant in not running away with their new-found fitness straight into a stress fracture. If you have just taken up running it is worth thinking about the Goldilocks Threshold, and remember that no one has ever given up or got injured because they did too little. The clearest feedback that your body gives you while running is that of your immediate cardiorespiratory experience. And for every run you do, this will improve, but you must avoid entirely the idea that cardiorespiratory ability is an indicator of your overall fitness – it isn’t. It is only the tiniest tip of the iceberg of what is going on in the body.

While you’re just hitting your stride, your body is punishingly hard at work doing some miraculous things under your skin to adapt to your change of lifestyle; so be kind to yourself, take it slow, enjoy it, give your body the time and space that it needs, and you will be much more likely to make it to February.

This article originally appeared in The Conversation.

Issue 12 ASIAN STANDARD 15

While you’re just hitting your stride, your body is punishingly hard at work doing some miraculous things under your skin to adapt to your change of lifestyle; so be kind to yourself, take it slow, enjoy it, give your body the time and space that it needs, and you will be much more likely to make it to February.

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FEATURE

The law should protect all victims of domestic violence – but women need it most

By Felicity Kaganas Reader in Law specialising in Family and Child Law, Brunel University London

When a bill to combat violence against women and domestic violence went before the House of Commons earlier this month, two MPs took exception. Philip Davies MP – who has also just been appointed to the Women and Equalities Committee – reportedly attempted to filibuster the bill on the grounds that it focused only on violence against women. He argued that men are also victims of domestic violence and should be treated equally by the law.

In the end, the bill was passed by 135 votes to two. But there is good reason to focus specifically on violence against women. There are differences between men’s and women’s experiences of domestic violence.

The actual purpose of the bill is to oblige the government to ensure that the UK complies with a Council of Europe convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence – known as the Istanbul Convention.

The UK has signed, but not yet ratified this treaty.

Once it does so, the government will have to “exercise due diligence to prevent and protect against violence against women, to prosecute and punish perpetrators and to provide reparations for victims”. There is good evidence to show that the UK currently falls short on several of these measures.

Domestic violence The most recent findings of the Crime Survey for England and Wales show that women are more likely to say that they have experienced domestic abuse than men, with an estimated 1.2m female victims compared to 651,000 male victims,

While there are male victims of abuse, it is overwhelmingly women who suffer chronic abuse, postseparation abuse, serious abuse such as strangulation and suffocation, severe injury, sexual abuse and death.

throughout the year ending March 2016. The difference between the number of male and female victims (506,000) is at its lowest, compared with previous years.

But these statistics are compiled from the answers to a questionnaire, which is filled in on a laptop by respondents aged 16 to 59 years old.

This type of survey generally shows

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FEATURE

smaller differences in the numbers of male and female victims, because the questions do not explore context, motive or the seriousness of the incident: a slap or a kick is treated the same, regardless of whether a serious or minor injury results.

What’s more, the crime survey does not cover older victims; the Femicide Census records that 50 women aged 66 and over were killed by a partner or former partner. And while the Crime Survey shows comparable levels of physical injury inflicted on men and women, other studies do not.

These studies have demonstrated

that domestic violence is most often perpetrated by men on women.

And, while there are male victims of abuse, it is overwhelmingly women who suffer chronic abuse, post-separation abuse, serious abuse such as strangulation and suffocation, severe injury, sexual abuse and death.

In his speech, Davies argued that men under-report more than women, and that the incidence and severity of violence against them is underestimated as a result. But the reasons for any under-reporting are relevant. For example, in one study, most men did not report feeling

afraid as a result of the woman’s violence but said, rather, that they were “not bothered”, “impressed” or that the woman was “justified”. Most agreed that the woman’s violence was “not serious” whereas both men and women described men’s violence as “serious” or “very serious”.

Indeed, the Femicide Census records that 936 women were killed by men in England and Wales between 2009 and 2015: 64 per cent were killed by current or former partners, and 76 per cent of these victims were killed during the first year after separation. The census also quotes ONS statistics, showing that 44 per

MP Philip Davies

It is now an offence to engage in controlling or coercive behaviour, which means that most of the behaviour encompassed by “intimate terrorism” is now categorised as criminal.

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ASIAN STANDARD Issue 12

FEATURE

cent of female homicides were killed by partners or former partners, compared with 6 per cent of male victims. Killing, it says, is the “ultimate act of control”.

Women have different motivations, including self-defence, and use different forms of violence, compared to men. Men’s violence can more often be thought of as coercive control. It is part of a pattern of behaviour which has been described as “intimate terrorism”, where violence is used as part of a strategy to control the victim through isolation, intimidation, degradation, humiliation and deprivation of money. Physical abuse and threats, combined with these other forms of abuse mean the victim feels trapped and unable to escape the control of the perpetrator. In heterosexual relationships, this kind of abuse, says Johnson, a researcher, is perpetrated “almost entirely by men, not women”.

The differences in the findings of the Crime Surveys and research that reveals far greater disparities between the behaviour and experiences of men and women has been explained as being attributable to different methodologies. Those involved in intimate terrorism are unlikely to participate in social surveys like the Crime Survey. In contrast, researchers drawing their samples from refuges and medical and legal settings find a far greater proportion of women subject to intimate terrorism.

System failure The criminal justice system’s response to the problem of domestic violence has, historically, been poor.

Critics have pointed out that the police and judiciary show a lack of understanding about the nature and seriousness of domestic violence.

This, in turn, has led to bad practice, which can affect the outcomes of

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cases, and could contravene the terms of the Istanbul Convention.

Yet the law is changing to reflect what’s being learnt about domestic violence. For example, it is now an offence to engage in controlling or coercive behaviour, which means that most of the behaviour encompassed by “intimate terrorism” is now categorised as criminal.

What’s more, police have gained further powers of arrest, and Domestic Violence Protection Notices enable the police to remove the perpetrator from the home, and ask the magistrates court for an order that could bar the perpetrator from the home for 14-28 days.

But while the law has progressed, the way it is implemented continues to attract criticism. A report of an official inspection of police performance shows that, although police attitudes have improved, there were still cases where negative attitudes meant that victims were reluctant to report again.

There were further issues. Some police failed to identify repeat victims. Some were not building evidence-led cases – instead, they relied on the victim’s support, which might not be forthcoming. Some did not take emotional abuse seriously.

Arrest, charging and caution rates varied. Often, police did not act on breaches. Most importantly, they did not understand the dynamics of domestic violence and this led to poor risk assessment, leaving victims in danger.

Recent figures suggest that prosecution rates have improved.

However, while a decision to charge was made in 70 per cent of cases, and a conviction followed in 68 per cent of these, almost all convictions were the

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Critics have pointed out that the police and judiciary show a lack of understanding about the nature and seriousness of domestic violence.

This, in turn, has led to bad practice, which can affect the outcomes of cases, and could contravene the terms of the Istanbul Convention.

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NEWS

Sir Mo Farah and Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill lead nominees short list at the 2017 Lycamobile BEDSAs Sir Mo Farah and Dame Jessica EnnisHill lead an impressive shortlist at the third Lycamobile British Ethnic Diversity Sports Awards.

Sir Mo Farah, the two-time double Olympic gold medalist for 5000 and 10000 metres, leads an impressive group of sportsmen and women nominated for the third Lycamobile British Ethnic Diversity Sports Awards (BEDSAs).

The awards, which are now in their third year, are organised by Sporting Equals, the national partner of Sport England and advisors to the Department of Culture, Media and Sport. Sponsored by Lycamobile, the world’s largest mobile virtual network operator, the Awards are leading the way in recognising and celebrating sporting excellence within Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities.

Sir Mo will go to “head to head” with Saracens and England second row forward, Maro Itoje, Olympic Taekwondo silver medalist, Lutalo Muhamad and two-time Olympic rower and gold medal winner at the Rio Olympics, Mohamed Sbihi, for the coveted Sportsman of the Year award.

Commenting on his first ever nomination at the Lycamobile BEDSAs Mo Farah said, “I am proud to be nominated alongside a great group of sportsmen and women in what was an amazing year for British sport."

Densign White, Sporting Equals Chairman and three-time judo Olympian, commenting on this year's awards said "We are delighted by the quality of our shortlist for the 2017 BEDSAs and looking forward to celebrating all that is good in BAME sport at the Hilton Park Lane with

Chris Tooley (Lycamobile) and Christine Ohuruogu Sir Lenny Henry and our esteemed sporting guests."

The finalists for Sportswoman of the Year award feature London 2012 Olympic gold medalist, Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, Nicola Adams, the two-time Olympic boxing champion, Kadeena Cox, the Rio Paralympic gold medalist and Olympic Hockey Gold medalist and recent "I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here" contestant, Sam Quek.

Allirajah Subaskaran, Chairman of Lycamobile said: “I would like to congratulate all those shortlisted for this year’s BEDSAs. This list of nominees represents an impressive

collection of Black, Asian and minority ethnic sportsmen and women, all of whom deserve celebrating for their substantial contribution to sporting excellence in the UK.” The Lycamobile BEDSAs are supported

by Sport England, UK Sport, The Tennis Foundation, Youth Sport Trust, England Athletics, The Armed Forces, Mind and Spirit of 2012.

The award categories are as follows: Lycamobile Sportsman of the Year Award Sportswoman of the Year Award Sport England Community Sports Project of the Year Award Youth Sport Trust Young Sports Person of the Year Award UK Sport Inspirational Performance of the Year Award England Athletics Coach of the Year Award The Unsung Hero Award in association with the Armed Forces Tennis Foundation Special Recognition Award Mind Wellbeing Award

Chris Tooley (Lycamobile), Christine Ohuruogu, Arun King (Sporting Equals) and Densign White (Sporting Equals)

Spirit of 2012 Connecting Communities Award

Sporting Equals Lifetime Achievement Award This year's judges include former Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and England footballer Sol Campbell, former Olympic athletes Derek Redmond and Jason Gardner MBE, Surrey and England batsman Mark Butcher, UK Sport CEO Liz Nicholl, Leicestershire County Cricket Club CEO Wasim Khan MBE, Paralympic shot putter Vanessa Daobry and Channel 4 Paralympics host, Ade Adepitan MBE.

The elite 2016 shortlists include the following.

Lycamobile Sportsman of the Year Award Sir Mo Farah - Athletics Mohamed Sbihi - Rowing Maro Itoje - Rugby Union Lutalo Muhammad - Taekwando

Sportswoman of the Year Award Nicola Adams - Boxing Kadeena Cox - Para Cycling and Athletics Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill Heptathlon Sam Quek - Hockey

WEEKENDER FREE Issue twelve, Monday 9 January 2017

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TV E D I GU DE I S N I rite avou ls f r u o All y n channe s A ia

Bollywood's new gen star Shraddha Kapoor discusses Aditya Roy Kapur and next release Ok Jaanu

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FILM

2017: Here’s why you will be having a gala time at the cinema!

2016 might have been a bit of a damper when it comes to Bollywood but 2017 surely promises to be one of the most exciting years for Bollywood buffs yet. This year will see much awaited ayesha@asian-standard.co.uk releases from all the biggest names of the industry. From experimental films to sequels, there will be a lot on offer to appeal to the audiences whose tastes are as varied as these 2017 films are looking to be. We decided to share our top picks from the coming year to show you a glimpse of the cinematic treats you are in for!

by AYESHA BABAR

Raees: January has traditionally been a good month for movie releases with the Republic Day holiday on the 26th and this year we have not one but two big releases coming on this Indian holiday – Raees and Kaabil. The former stars Shah Rukh Khan, the king of not just Bollywood but also of release-date clashes, who will be seen in a completely new avatar in the film. Raees first captured audiences’ interest with a teaser that came out in 2015 with an initial release date of Eid 2016.While the release date was changed because it was clashing with Salman Khan’s Sultan, the interest in the film has only increased. Earlier this month, the

producers finally released the full trailer and boy are we impressed!

The film sees Shah Rukh playing the anti-hero (allegedly based on the life of Abdul Latif, a very prominent underworld figure from Gujarat). Of course we all know that even if Khan is playing the anti-hero, as he did in Darr and Bazigar, we would still love every second of it. Raees has Shah Rukh pitted against the acting powerhouse that is Nawazuddin Siddiqui. Raees also marks the debut of Pakistani actress Mahira Khan as the leading lady. While the trailer has given us a glimpse of the intense chemistry between the two Khans, we can’t wait for the rest of it to unfold on the big screen!

Tiger Zinda Hai: The stellar pair of Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif will be back on our screens after five long years with the sequel to the blockbuster, Ek Tha Tiger which released in 2012. This time, the film that looks at the endearing love story of an Indian and a Pakistani spy, will be directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, whose last big release was this year’s Sultan. There is added curiosity about this film because of its timing. Katrina signed the

Kaabil: While it is no secret that Hrithik Roshan has had a dry spell in Bollywood since his last big hit, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, we are extremely hopeful for Kaabil, for we know that his recent box office does, in no way, reflect on Roshan’s abilities as an actor.

Kaabil, starring Yami Gautam opposite Roshan, takes us on an

emotional roller coaster – from romance to love to revenge!

The story revolves around two visually impaired individuals who find each other and within each other, they find love. We know that Hrithik excels at challenging roles so we are hoping that he is able to deliver a hit with this one.

film with Salman, who she was in a long relationship with just before she started dating Ranbir Kapoor, soon after her breakup with Ranbir Kapoor and now people are eagerly waiting to compare the chemistry that she will share with Kapoor and Khan in Jagga Jasoos and Tiger Zinda Hai, respectively. With a lockedin release date of Christmas 2017, we won’t have to wait much longer to find out.

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FILM Padmavati:

Baahubali: The Conclusion:

After Ram Leela and Bajirao Mastani, the trio of director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and actors Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone have come together once again for a period romance in Padmavati.

Shahid Kapoor also joins the cast in a leading role.

Padmavati is based on the events surrounding the siege of the Chittor fort in Rajasthan and the entangled lives of Rani Padmavati (Deepika), Alauddin Khilji (Ranveer) and the Rani’s husband Rawal Ratan Singh (Shahid ). There are rumours that even the legendary Lata Mangeshkar will be lending her voice for a song on the soundtrack that has been composed by Bhansali himself.

After having delivered musical masterpieces like Devdas and Bajirao Mastani in the past, we have very high expectations from Padmavati’s music and the film itself!

Bahubaali: The Beginning was one of the highest grossing movies of 2015, and the sequel is expected to break even more records. The sequel will see actors Prabhas and Rana Daggubati reprise their roles from the first instalment of the

historical drama which, according to director S.S. Rajamouli, will be more emotional and grand. If you are a fan of cinema based of historical tales then this one will be a must watch when it comes out in April 2017.

Jagga Jasoos: This film has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. Once touted to be Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif’s show of love on screen, and initially expected to be released in November 2015, the film has been delayed a few times. Ranbir Kapoor plays a gifted teenage (yep, 17 years old!) detective in the film who is on the search for his missing father and accompanying him on this adventure is his love interest, played by Katrina Kaif.

The eponymous film brings back the successful duo of Anurag Basu and Ranbir Kapoor almost five years after Barfi. Whatever the fate of Ranbir Kapoor movies has

Badrinath ki Dulhaniya: The Khans and Kapoors might still be ruling the roost when it comes to the box office but the next generation is making its presence felt as well! Two such actors are Alia Bhatt and Varun Dhawan. While Varun has shown himself to be a versatile actor, from SOTY to Badlapur, it is Alia who has firmly established her place as one of the finest actors out of the new crop. Not surprisingly, she has already started winning awards this year for her roles in Udta Punjab, Kapoor & Sons and Dear Zindagi. Varun and Alia will be back on screen together in the sequel to Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhaniya, which became massively popular amongst Gen Y. With so much riding on their young shoulders, we wish them the best of luck!

Maula Jatt 2: While we may not be seeing Fawad Afzal Khan in Bollywood productions for a while, we are mighty thrilled about his next Pakistani release, Maula Jatt 2.

The film is a sequel to the 1979 cult classic, Maula Jatt, that had Sultan Rahi in the lead role. Popular television actor, Hamza Ali Abbasi will be playing the antagonist, Noori Nath. With two of the most loved Pakistani actors as the leads, we are sure that Maula Jatt 2 will be a sure shot winner!

been of late, his acting prowess remains an unquestionable fact and we are really excited to see how he will present this challenging character. The other thing we are looking forward to is the music of the film. Director Pritam has recently said that Jagga Jasoos has been one of the most difficult musical soundtracks he has had to give and that is because there are a whopping 20 songs in the film, including large chunks of lyrical dialogue. Since this musical genre is still unexplored in India, we look forward to seeing what Basu has in store for us!

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Peshawari Karahi

When cool evenings follow a long hot day, one only wants to sit outdoors, enjoying the company of close friends and a meal that is equally soothing.

Ingredients

Method

• Chicken : 1.5 Kg • Ghee : 5 tablespoons • Tomato (whole) : 2-3 medium • National Iodized Salt : 1 • teaspoon, or to taste • National White Karahi Masala : 1 tablespoon • Ginger (julienne) : 2 tablespoons (optional) • Green Chili (whole) : 4 (optional)

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In a wok put chicken pieces, ghee, tomatoes, National Iodized Salt, National White Karahi Masala, and 1 cup of water; bring to a full boil.

When tomatoes soften, peel the skin by using two forks and mash them.

Cover and cook for 15 minutes on a low heat till

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the chicken is tender and water almost dries up.

Now do bhunai for a few minutes till the ghee separates.

Garnish if desired with fresh ginger and green chili.

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Afghani Pulao Ingredients

• Sayla Rice : 3 cups • Oil : 1 cup • Onion (sliced) : 2 medium • Mutton : 750 gm • National Ginger & Garlic Paste : 1 tablespoon each • National Pulao Masala : 1/2 packet • National Iodized Salt : to taste • Carrots (grated) : 1 cup • Raisins : 2 tablespoons • Sugar : 2 tablespoons • Almonds (blanched) : 10 • Pistachios (blanched) : 10

5

Method Wash and soak sayla rice for at least 3 hours and keep changing the water every hour.

In a large pot, fry the onions till dark brown in color.

Strain, crush and keep aside.

In the same oil add the mutton, National Ginger Paste, and National Garlic Paste. Cook until the meat is slightly brown.

Now add National Pulao Masala and 6-7 cups of water; bring to a full boil then turn the heat low and simmer till the meat is tender. If required add National Iodized Salt to taste.

In a small sauce pan add carrots, raisins, sugar and 1/2 cup water. Cook on

medium heat until the carrots get softened and liquid dries out. Keep aside.

Add crushed fried onions to the mutton gravy that depart a deep caramel flavour and colour to the gravy.

When the meat is ready, strain the soaked rice and add to the meat. Cook over a high heat until most of the liquid disappears. You should have enough liquid left to cook rice in. You may add some additional hot water if required.

Turn the heat low and put the rice on dum.

Serve the pulao with the carrots, and raisins.

Generously garnish with blanched almonds and pistachios.

Palla Machli Ingredients

• Palla Fish / (Rao) Fillet : 1.5- 2 kg • Garlic Paste : 1 tablespoon • Tamarind Pulp : 1/2 cup • Chili Powder : 1 teaspoon • Turmeric Powder : 1 teaspoon • National Chapli Kabab Masala : 2 tablespoons • Dried Pomegranate Seeds (crushed) : 1 teaspoon • Coriander Seeds (crushed) : 1 teaspoon • Iodized Salt : to taste • Oil for shallow frying

• Green Chili (finely chopped) : 2-3 pods • Fresh Coriander (finely chopped) : 1 teaspoon Method

Cut the fish fillets in portions that can fit in the frying pan.

Make cuts, not too deep, on both sides of fish with a sharp knife.

In a bowl make a thick paste using National Ginger Paste, National Garlic Paste, tamarind pulp, all the dry

spices, and National Chapli Kabab Masala.

Thoroughly coat both sides of the fish fillets with the paste, making sure to rub some in the cuts. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably for 2 hours.

Heat the oil in deep frying pan and fry the fish fillets at medium heat by cooking the skin-side down first till its golden in color.

Sprinkle green chili, fresh coriander and serve on a platter.

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Your Weekend tv Guide for all your favourite Asian TV channels Saturday 14 January 2017

SONY TV

02:00 Crime Patrol (Drama)

(Documentary)

03:00 The Kapil Sharma Show (Comedy)

21:00 Mere Humnawa (Drama)

04:30 CID (Drama)

22:00 Bewaqoofiyan (Comedy)

06:30 Bani - Ishq Da Kalma (Drama)

05:31Crime Patrol (Drama)

22:30 Aashiq Colony (Drama)

07:00 Vatsalya Tech (Magazine Programme)

ARY TV

00:00 Khuda Mera Bhi Hai (Documentary) 01:00 Sahulat Bazaar (Consumer) 02:00 Khushhaal Susral (Drama) 02:30 Begunah (Drama)

05:59 Sankat Mochan Mahabali Hanuman (Drama) 06:30 Jeevan Prabhat (Religious) 07:00 Kuch Rang Pyar Ke Aise Bhi (Drama) 07:30 Bhakti Sagar (Religious) 08:00 Kuch Rang Pyar Ke Aise Bhi (Drama) 08:30 Kuch Rang Pyar Ke Aise Bhi (Drama) 09:00 Kuch Rang Pyar Ke Aise Bhi (Drama)

03:30 Bewaqoofiyan (Comedy) 06:00 Jeeto Pakistan (Game Show) 06:20 Azan-E-Fajr (Religious) 06:29 Jeeto Pakistan (Game Show) 08:00 Sahulat Bazaar (Consumer) 09:00 Inteqam (Film) 10:00 Dilli Walay Dulahray Babu (Drama)

12:00 Khushhaal Susral (Drama)

10:00 Beyhadh (Drama)

12:22 Khushhaal Susral (Drama)

12:00 Indian Idol (Game Show) 13:00 Asian Variety Show (Entertainment) 14:00 Filmistaan (Film) 16:30 Kuch Rang Pyar Ke Aise Bhi (Drama) 17:00 Kuch Rang Pyar Ke Aise Bhi (Drama)

13:30 Jeeto Pakistan (Game Show)

09:30 Khal Nayak (Film)

14:01 Azan-E-Asr (Religious)

13:00 Happy Ending (Entertainment)

14:08 Jeeto Pakistan (Game Show)

16:30 Phir Hera Pheri (Film)

15:30 Dilli Walay Dulahray Babu (Drama) 16:00 Mein Mehroo (Drama)

16:30 Rishta Anjana Sa (Drama)

23:30 Crime Patrol (Drama) 00:30 The Kapil Sharma Show (Comedy)

B4U Movies

06:00 Deewar (Film)

19:00 Indian Idol (Game Show)

22:30 CID (Drama)

05:30 Hamd O Naat (Music)

12:30 Begunah (Drama)

16:23 Azan-E-Maghrib (Religious)

21:00 The Kapil Sharma Show (Comedy)

05:00 Tadabbur-E-Qur'an (Religious)

12:15 Azan-E-Zuhr (Religious)

17:30 The Kapil Sharma Show (Comedy)

20:00 Indian Idol (Game Show)

04:00 Mere Humnawa (Drama)

10:30 Teeja Party (Drama)

09:30 Kuch Rang Pyar Ke Aise Bhi (Drama)

10:30 The Kapil Sharma Show (Comedy)

06:00 Shakti Astitva Ke Ehsaas Ki (Drama)

17:00 Teeja Party (Drama) 18:00 Azan-E-Isha (Religious)

20:00 Awaara Paagal Deewana (Film) 23:30 Badhaai Ho Badhaai (Film)

07:30 Karmafal Daata Shani (Drama) 09:00 Ek Shringaar Swabhiman (Drama) 10:30 Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa (Reality Show)

08:30 Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah (Reality Show) 09:00 Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah (Reality Show) 09:30 Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah (Reality Show) 10:00 Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah (Reality Show)

12:00 Bigg Boss - India Isse Apna Hi Gha (Reality Show)

10:30 Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah (Reality Show)

14:30 Comedy Nights Bachao Taaza (Comedy)

11:00 Krantiveer (Film)

16:00 Boss (Drama) 19:00 Devanshi (Drama) 19:30 Sasural Simar Ka (Drama)

13:35 Baabul (Film) 17:15 Ladies v Ricky Bahl (Film) 20:10 Sultan (Film)

20:00 Naagin (Drama)

23:50 Crime Patrol Dial 100 (Drama)

21:00 Bigg Boss - India Isse Apna Hi Gha (Reality Show)

00:50 Crime Patrol Dial 100 (Drama)

22:30 Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa (Reality Show)

01:45 Crime Patrol Dial 100 (Drama)

00:00 Naagin (Drama)

02:45 Crime Patrol Dial 100 (Drama)

01:00 Bigg Boss - India Isse Apna Hi Gha (Reality Show)

03:30 Crime Patrol Dial 100 (Drama)

02:30 Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa (Reality Show)

04:20 Crime Patrol Dial 100 (Drama)

04:00 Devanshi (Drama)

05:05 Pyaar Impossible (Film)

SAB TV

SONY MAX

03:00 Love Breakups Zindagi (Film)

Colours TV

18:07 Teeja Party (Drama) 18:30 Khushhaal Susral (Drama)

06:00 Shanghai (Film)

19:00 Begunah (Drama)

05:00 Aadmi Aur Insaan (Film)

20:00 Khuda Mera Bhi Hai

08:00 Sadguru Enlightens

12:00 Chaar Sahibzaade (Film)

Rajinikanth will get a special preview of Hrithik Roshan’s Kaabil Hrithik Roshan starrer Kaabil is under a month away for its release and the film is creating headlines with each passing day.

Directed by Sanjay Gupta and produced

by Rakesh Roshan, the film is touted as a revenge thriller with equal dose of romance and action.

Earlier, there were reports that Tamil

(Religious)

superstar Rajinikanth had expressed his desire to watch Kaabil after watching the trailer. The Thalaivar also stated that Hrithik’s acting in the trailer is stupendous and he can’t wait for the release of the film.

“I’m elated by Rajinikanth’s praise for Kaabil. Hrithik Roshan’s first film, Bhagwaan Dada was with

Rajini. Hrithik Roshan was 12 when he faced the camera with the legend”, said Rakesh Roshan.

And now it has been confirmed that Kaabil producer Rakesh Roshan is all set make Thalaivar‘s wish come true. Reportedly, the Krishh director is planning to arrange a special screening of Kaabil for Rajinikanth in Chennai.

09:00 Jawani Diwani (Film)

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14:30 Yeh Jawaani Hai Diwani (Film)

07:30 Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai (Drama)

03:00 Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai (Drama)

06:30 Shrimad Bhagwat Katha (Entertainment)

23:00 Neeli Chatri Waale (Documentary)

17:30 Chachi 420 (Film)

08:00 Chandra Nandni (Drama)

07:00 Zee News (News)

21:00 Dostana (Film)

08:30 Pardes Mein Hai Mera Dil (Drama)

03:30 Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai (Drama)

00:00 Brahmarakshas... Jaag Utha Shaitaan (Drama)

00:00 Hum Tum (Film) 03:00 Sindoor (Film)

STAR GOLD

09:00 Ishqbaaaz (Drama) 09:30 Naamkarann (Drama) 10:00 Yeh Hai Mohabbatein (Drama) 10:30 Suhaani Si Ek Ladki (Drama) 11:00 Dil Hai Hindustani (Entertainment) 12:00 Mere Angne Mein (Drama)

04:00 Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai (Drama) 04:30 Suhaani Si Ek Ladki (Drama) 05:00 Suhaani Si Ek Ladki (Drama) 05:30 Suhaani Si Ek Ladki (Drama)

ZEE CINEMA

07:30 Yoga for You (Entertainment) 08:00 Nirankari Baba Mission (Entertainment) 08:30 Narayan Seva Sansthan (Documentary) 09:00 Money Guru (Business and Finance) 09:30 The Art Room (Entertainment) 10:00 Food Tripping (Cookery)

12:30 Chandra Nandni (Drama)

10:30 Ganga - The Soul of India (Cookery)

13:00 Yeh Hai Mohabbatein (Drama)

11:00 Ek Tha Raja Ek Thi Rani (Drama)

13:30 Yeh Hai Mohabbatein (Drama)

11:30 Ek Tha Raja Ek Thi Rani (Drama)

07:40 Raajneeti (Film)

14:00 Pardes Mein Hai Mera Dil (Drama)

12:00 Ek Tha Raja Ek Thi Rani (Drama)

11:00 Karthik Calling Karthik (Film)

14:30 Son of Sardaar (Film)

04:05 Humjoli (Film)

17:30 Jana Na Dil Se Door (Drama)

07:00 Akele Hum Akele Tum (Film)

18:00 Mere Angne Mein (Drama)

09:45 Fanography (Entertainment)

18:30 Suhaani Si Ek Ladki (Drama)

10:00 Shaukeen (Film)

14:00 Kumkum Bhagya (Drama)

12:15 Deewar (Film)

14:30 Kumkum Bhagya (Drama)

19:00 Saathiya (Drama)

14:45 Double Dhamaal (Film)

15:00 Kumkum Bhagya (Drama)

19:30 Yeh Hai Mohabbatein (Drama)

17:00 Singh is Bling (Film)

15:30 Kumkum Bhagya (Drama)

20:00 Dil Hai Hindustani (Entertainment)

19:30 Baar Baar Dekho (Film) 22:05 Nh 10 (Film)

16:00 The Big Idea (Entertainment)

06:00 Little Krishna - The Legendary Warrior (Film)

13:40 Shaadi No. 1 (Film) 16:20 Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (Film) 20:00 Sanam Re (Film) 22:25 Raaz: The Mystery Continues (Film) 01:05 Mitti Aur Sona (Entertainment) 04:10 Little Krishna - The Wondrous... (Film)

STAR PLUS

02:30 Big Story, Big Debate (Chat Show) 03:30 The Art Room (Entertainment) 04:30 Fear Files (Documentary) 05:30 Yogic Healing by Swami Ramdev (Entertainment)

HUM TV

12:30 Ek Tha Raja Ek Thi Rani (Drama) 13:00 Ek Tha Raja Ek Thi Rani (Drama) 13:30 Kumkum Bhagya (Drama)

09:00 Jago Pakistan Jago 10:30 Joru Ka Ghulam(Rpt) 11:00 Hatheli 12:00 Dil Banjaara

14:00 Sila

03:30 Shaukeen (Film)

17:30 Ganga - The Soul of India (Cookery)

05:45 Pure Bollywood (Music)

18:00 Out and About (Entertainment)

16:00 Bunty I love u

18:30 Bollywood Business (Magazine Programme)

18:00 Sange Mar Mar

21:30 Ishqbaaaz (Drama)

02:45 Pure Bollywood (Music)

22:00 Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai (Drama)

23:00 Yeh Hai Mohabbatein (Drama)

02:00 Bollywood Business (Magazine Programme)

13:00 Saya e Deewaar bhi Nahi

00:00 Deewar (Film)

22:30 Jana Na Dil Se Door (Drama)

01:00 Dr. Subhash Chandra Show (Drama)

16:30 Big Story, Big Debate (Chat Show)

21:00 Naamkarann (Drama)

ZEE TV

15:00 Bin Roye

17:00 Natak

19:00 Zee News (News)

19:00 Fun Khana

23:30 Dil Hai Hindustani (Entertainment)

19:30 Ganga - The Soul of India (Cookery)

19:30 Joru Ka Ghulam

00:30 Pardes Mein Hai Mera Dil (Drama)

20:00 Dr. Subhash Chandra Show (Drama)

21:00 Bunty I love u

06:00 Jana Na Dil Se Door (Drama)

01:00 Pardes Mein Hai Mera Dil (Drama)

21:00 Best of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa (Music)

06:30 Mere Angne Mein (Drama)

01:30 Ishqbaaaz (Drama)

22:00 Brahmarakshas... Jaag Utha Shaitaan (Drama)

07:00 Saathiya (Drama)

02:00 Ishqbaaaz (Drama) 02:30 Ishqbaaaz (Drama)

05:30 Yogic Healing by Swami Ramdev (Entertainment)

A portrayal of modern, urban India comes to life beautifully onscreen in OK Jaanu A breezy offering of new age Indian cinema welcomes in the New Year as romantic drama, OK Jaanu, releases in cinemas on 13January 2017, presented by Dharma Productions and Madras Talkies, distributed by Fox Star Studios.

Reflecting modern, urban India and its energy, aspirations and love stories, conveyed through the inimitable style of director Shaad Ali (Bunty Aur Babli, Saathiya), OK Jaanu revolves around a young couple

in a live-in relationship in Mumbai. The juxtaposition of career, ambitions, playfulness and emotions are brought to life onscreen through tender humour and pathos. The film is inspired by the super hit Tamil film, OK Kadhal Kanmani, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Mani Ratnam, who here lends his creative input as co-producer.

A wealth of acting talent takes ownership of the screen in OK Jaanu as new gen artists Shraddha Kapoor and

7

Aditya Roy Kapur join veterans Naseeruddin Shah and Leela Samson, respectively delivering performances that will resonate with cross-generational audiences.

Academy, BAFTA, Grammy and Golden Globe awardwinning musical genius, A.R. Rahman, has crafted another impeccable soundtrack, including a reworking of one of contemporary Indian cinema’s most iconic anthems, Rahman’s earlier Hamma Hamma (Bombay), redelivered in the form of The Humma Song that’s already championing the airwaves.

20:00 Laaj

22:00 Saturday Night Special

Disclaimer : Please note listings correct at the time of printing and can vary.

8

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Your Weekend tv Guide for all your favourite Asian TV channels Sunday 15 January 2017

SONY TV

23:30 Crime Patrol (Drama)

18:30 Bulbulay (Comedy)

00:30 The Kapil Sharma Show (Comedy)

19:00 Begunah (Drama)

02:00 Crime Patrol (Drama) 03:00 The Kapil Sharma Show (Comedy) 04:31 CID (Drama) 05:31 Crime Patrol (Drama)

ARY TV

07:00 Vatsalya Tech (Magazine Programme)

08:30 Khatmal-E-Isqh (Drama)

20:00 Jeeto Pakistan (Game Show)

07:30 Shakti Astitva Ke Ehsaas Ki (Drama)

09:30 Khatmal-E-Isqh (Drama)

22:00 Inteqam (Film)

09:00 Devanshi (Entertainment)

23:00 Meray Shohar Ki Dulhan (Drama)

10:30 Bigg Boss - India Isse Apna Hi Gha (Reality Show)

00:30 Bulbulay (Comedy)

12:30 Bigg Boss - India Isse Apna Hi Gha (Reality Show)

01:00 Sahulat Bazaar (Consumer) 02:00 Begunah (Drama) 03:00 Inteqam (Film)

14:00 Comedy Nights Bachao Taaza (Comedy) 15:30 Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa (Reality Show)

05:31 Crime Patrol (Drama)

04:00 Ghayal (Drama)

06:30 Jeevan Prabhat (Religious)

05:00 Tadabbur-E-Qur'an (Religious)

18:30 Desi Beat (Magazine Programme)

07:00 Sankat Mochan Mahabali Hanuman (Drama)

05:30 Hamd O Naat (Music)

19:00 Devanshi (Drama)

07:30 Bhakti Sagar (Religious) 07:59 Sankat Mochan Mahabali Hanuman (Drama) 08:29 Sankat Mochan Mahabali Hanuman (Drama) 08:59 Sankat Mochan Mahabali Hanuman (Drama) 09:30 Asian Variety Show (Entertainment)

06:00 Begunah (Drama) 06:19 Azan-E-Fajr (Religious) 06:28 Begunah (Drama)

12:00 Indian Idol (Game Show)

12:15 Azan-E-Zuhr (Religious)

13:00 Beyhadh (Drama)

12:22 Khushhaal Susral (Drama)

13:30 Beyhadh (Drama)

12:30 Bewaqoofiyan (Comedy)

14:00 Gippi (Film)

13:00 Khuda Mera Bhi Hai (Documentary) 14:02 Azan-E-Asr (Religious) 14:09 Mere Humnawa (Drama)

17:00 Beyhadh (Drama)

15:00 Muqaabil (Drama)

17:30 The Kapil Sharma Show (Comedy)

16:00 Yehi Ishq (Drama)

19:00 Indian Idol (Game Show) 20:00 Indian Idol (Game Show) 21:00 The Kapil Sharma Show (Comedy) 22:30 CID (Drama)

00:00 Naagin (Drama)

09:00 Good Morning Pakistan (Chat Show)

12:00 Khushhaal Susral (Drama)

16:30 Beyhadh (Drama)

22:30 Comedy Nights Bachao Taaza (Comedy)

08:00 Sahulat Bazaar (Consumer)

10:30 Aashiq Colony (Drama)

20:00 Naagin (Drama) 21:00 Bigg Boss - India Isse Apna Hi Gha (Reality Show)

07:00 Khuda Mera Bhi Hai (Documentary)

10:30 The Kapil Sharma Show (Comedy)

16:00 Beyhadh (Drama)

B4U Movies

19:30 Sasural Simar Ka (Drama)

01:00 Bigg Boss - India Isse Apna Hi Gha (Reality Show) 06:00 Gayab (Film) 09:30 Baazigar (Film)

02:30 Comedy Nights Bachao Taaza (Comedy)

13:00 Dhadkan (Film)

04:00 Udaan (Film)

16:30 No Problem (Film) 20:00 All the Best: Fun Begins (Film)

09:00 Khatmal-E-Isqh (Drama)

10:00 Khatmal-E-Isqh (Drama) 10:30 Khatmal-E-Isqh (Drama) 11:00 Dum Laga Ke Haisha (Film) 13:25 Koi... Mil Gaya (Film) 17:00 Dilwale (Film) 20:15 Lafangey Parindey (Film) 22:55 Crime Patrol Dial 100 (Drama) 23:50 Crime Patrol Dial 100 (Drama) 00:50 Crime Patrol Dial 100 (Drama) 01:45 Crime Patrol Dial 100 (Drama) 02:40 Crime Patrol Dial 100 (Drama) 03:25 Crime Patrol Dial 100 (Drama) 04:10 Krantiveer (Film)

SONY MAX

SAB TV

23:30 Happy Ending (Entertainment) 03:00 Gulaab Gang (Film) 06:00 Shahid (Film)

Colours TV

08:30 Kareeb (Film) 11:30 Abcd 2 (Film) 14:30 Dil to Pagal Hai (Film)

16:24 Azan-E-Maghrib (Religious)

18:00 Aur Pyar Ho Gaya (Film)

16:31 Yehi Ishq (Drama)

05:05 Pyaar Impossible (Film)

17:00 Aashiq Colony (Drama)

07:30 Khatmal-E-Isqh (Drama)

21:00 Student of the Year (Film)

18:01 Azan-E-Isha (Religious)

08:00 Sadguru Enlightens (Religious)

00:00 Chachi 420 (Film)

18:08 Aashiq Colony (Drama)

06:00 Udaan (Film)

Shahid Kapoor is taking horse riding and sword fighting lessons Shahid Kapoor, last seen in Udta Punjab, is now preparing hard for his upcoming film “Padmavati”. He has started taking lessons in horse riding and sword fighting.

In the Sanjay Leela Bhansali directorial, Shahid will be seen essaying the role of Raja Rawal Ratan Singh. To really grasp the real

essence of the role and to get into the skin of the character, Shahid is busy undergoing sword fighting and horse riding training.

“Being a perfectionist, Shahid has hired a personal trainer who is busy training him in sword fighting as well as horse riding.

The actor wants to get everything right and

bring more authenticity to his role. The actor is busy shooting at night for the film. He takes classes during the day,” said a source close to Shahid.

The film will also be staring Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone.

03:00 Sahibaan (Film)

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STAR GOLD

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09:00 Yeh Hai Mohabbatein (Drama) 09:30 Yeh Hai Mohabbatein (Drama) 10:00 Yeh Hai Mohabbatein (Drama)

05:30 Yeh Hai Mohabbatein (Drama)

ZEE CINEMA

10:30 Dil Hai Hindustani Unplugged (Documentary)

12:00 Koffee with Karan (Chat Show)

07:50 Namak Haraam (Film) 10:35 Club 60 (Film) 13:20 Kahin Pyaar Na Ho Jaaye (Film) 16:40 Dostana (Film) 20:00 Dolly Ki Doli (Film) 21:55 Pink (Film) 00:35 Vijeta (Film) 03:20 Little Krishna - The Legendary Warrior (Film) 04:55 Koffee with Karan (Chat Show)

STAR PLUS

13:00 Pardes Mein Hai Mera Dil (Drama) 13:30 Pardes Mein Hai Mera Dil (Drama)

05:45 Pure Bollywood (Music) 06:30 Double Dhamaal (Film)

14:00 Naamkarann (Drama)

08:45 Hero (Sooraj Pancholi) (Film)

14:30 Naamkarann (Drama)

11:30 Phir Hera Pheri (Film)

15:00 Dabangg 2 (Film)

14:15 Fanography (Entertainment)

17:30 Jana Na Dil Se Door (Drama)

14:30 Luck by Chance (Film)

18:00 Mere Angne Mein (Drama)

17:15 Fanography (Entertainment)

18:30 Suhaani Si Ek Ladki (Drama)

17:30 Khubsoorat (Film)

08:30 Narayan Seva Sansthan (Documentary)

05:30 Yogic Healing by Swami Ramdev (Entertainment)

10:30 Ganga - The Soul of India (Cookery) 11:00 Zindagi Ki Mehek (Drama)

12:00 Zindagi Ki Mehek (Drama) 12:30 Zindagi Ki Mehek (Drama) 13:00 Zindagi Ki Mehek (Drama) 13:30 Santa Banta Pvt Ltd (Film)

20:00 Dil Hai Hindustani (Entertainment)

00:15 Phir Hera Pheri (Film) 02:50 Jo Bole So Nihal (Film)

18:00 Food Tripping (Cookery)

04:55 Hero (Sooraj Pancholi) (Film)

18:30 Bollywood Business (Magazine Programme)

06:00 Chandra Nandni (Drama)

02:30 Ishqbaaaz (Drama)

06:30 Chandra Nandni (Drama)

03:00 Saathiya (Drama)

07:00 Chandra Nandni (Drama)

03:30 Chandra Nandni (Drama) 04:00 Suhaani Si Ek Ladki (Drama) 04:30 Naamkarann (Drama) 05:00 Pardes Mein Hai Mera Dil (Drama)

19:00 Zee News (News) 19:30 Ganga - The Soul of India (Cookery) 20:00 The Golden Years with Javed Aktar (Documentary) 21:00 Best of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa (Music)

02:00 Yeh Hai Mohabbatein (Drama)

22:00 Brahmarakshas... Jaag Utha Shaitaan (Drama) 23:00 The Golden Years with Javed Aktar (Documentary) 05:30 Yogic Healing by Swami Ramdev (Entertainment) 06:30 Shrimad Bhagwat Katha (Entertainment) 07:00 Zee News (News)

00:00 Brahmarakshas... Jaag Utha Shaitaan (Drama) 01:00 Bollywood Cut (Entertainment) 02:00 Kaala Teeka (Drama)

Bollywood celebrates Christmas in London Ajay Devgn and Kajol are in London to bring in Christmas and New Year with their family. They are expected to return to Bombay on January 3 and Ajay will resume shooting for his upcoming film, Milan Luthria’s Baadshaho.

Ajay Devgn had earlier said, “London is home for us. We are looking forward to a white Christmas but since the English weather is so unpredictable one never knows how it will turn out. Nevertheless, Christmas and New Year in London are regular fixtures on our holiday calendar. I love the cold and I want nothing more than to spend time with

HUM TV

11:30 Zindagi Ki Mehek (Drama)

17:30 Ganga - The Soul of India (Cookery)

01:30 Pardes Mein Hai Mera Dil (Drama)

04:30 Jamai Raja (Drama)

10:00 Out and About (Entertainment)

22:25 Aatma - Feel it Around You (Film)

ZEE TV

04:00 Ek Tha Raja Ek Thi Rani (Drama)

05:00 Kaala Teeka (Drama)

19:30 Yeh Hai Mohabbatein (Drama)

20:30 Pardes Mein Hai Mera Dil (Drama)

03:30 Kumkum Bhagya (Drama)

09:30 The Art Room (Entertainment)

19:00 Saathiya (Drama)

00:30 Dil Hai Hindustani (Entertainment)

08:30 Mere Angne Mein (Drama)

03:00 Sanyukt (Drama)

16:30 Bollywood Cut (Entertainment)

22:00 Kahaani (Film)

08:00 Mere Angne Mein (Drama)

08:00 Bhakti Bhav (Entertainment)

20:00 Happy Bhaag Jaayegi (Comedy)

21:00 Koffee with Karan (Chat Show)

07:30 Mere Angne Mein (Drama)

02:30 Zindagi Ki Mehek (Drama)

09:00 Money Guru (Business and Finance)

11:00 Dil Hai Hindustani (Entertainment)

06:00 Kris Aur Krishna (Film)

07:30 Yoga for You (Entertainment)

9

my family there,’’ Others actors spotted around London town include; Shilpa Shetty and her husband Raj Kundra, Shamita Shetty, Varun Dhawan and Arjun Kapoor with his sister Anshula. Winter Wonderland in London’s Hyde Park seems to a favourite spot for almost all of them.

We hope you are enjoying this wonderful time of the year just as much.

Happy Holidays!

09:00 Jago Pakistan Jago 10:30 Fun Khana (Rpt) 11:00 Saya e Dewaar bhi Nahin 12:00 Natak 13:00 Bin Roye 14:00 Hatheli 15:00 Hatheli 16:00 Bunty I love u 17:00 Hsy (Season 3) 18:00 Sila 19:30 Mr Shamim 20:00 Bin Roye 21:00 Bunty I love u 22:00 Kitni Girhein Baqi Hain Disclaimer : Please note listings correct at the time of printing and can vary.

10

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INTERVIEW

Bollywood's new gen star Shraddha Kapoor discusses Aditya Roy Kapur and next release Ok Jaanu Reflecting modern, urban India and its energy, aspirations and love stories, conveyed through the inimitable style of director Shaad Ali (Bunty Aur Babli, Saathiya), OK Jaanu revolves around a young couple in a live-in relationship in Mumbai. The juxtaposition of career, ambitions, playfulness and emotions are brought to life onscreen through tender humour and pathos. The film is inspired by the super hit Tamil film, OK Kadhal Kanmani, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Mani Ratnam, who here lends his creative input as co-producer.

A wealth of acting talent takes ownership of the screen in OK Jaanu as new gen artists Shraddha Kapoor and Aditya

Roy Kapur join veterans Naseeruddin Shah and Leela Samson, respectively delivering performances that will resonate with cross-generational audiences. Academy, BAFTA, Grammy and Golden Globe award-winning musical genius, A.R. Rahman, has crafted another impeccable soundtrack, including a reworking of one of contemporary Indian cinema’s most iconic anthems, Rahman’s earlier Hamma Hamma (Bombay), redelivered in the form of The Humma Song that’s already championing the airwaves.

We caught up with the female lead Shraddha Kapoor and here's what she had to say before the film's release

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11

INTERVIEW the character?

One of the most important things that Shaad wanted to come across was that I am more mature than Aditya’s character and hence he told me to focus on the way I deliver my dialogues.

There is a rich, filmic heritage of remaking popular Tamil films in Bollywood. How much does OK Jaanu mirror the earlier OK Kanmani?

It is exactly the same as the Tamil one only thing is that it is adapted to Hindi cinema.

Bo lly wo o d c inema , as a n a rt, seems to be mo re c losely imitating life, thro ug h subjec t matters a nd narra tives. Do yo u feel O K Ja anu is emblema tic o f that a nd re flec ts mo d ern, urba n life in I nd ia mo re rea listica lly ?

Yes and more so in an entertaining manner. I think it is an important topic that we are touching upon.

Why should audiences go and see OK Jaanu on 13th January?

They should go and see it if they want to have a smile on their faces and be entertained with a relevant topic today.

They should go and see it if they want to have a smile on their faces and be entertained with a relevant topic today.

OK Jaanu looks like the perfect, feelgood film to welcome in the New Year. Would you agree?

Yes I do. It's in a happy space, the film and is perfect for everyone who wants to have a smile on their faces.

It seems the perspectives of alternative generations are presented through Adi and Tara; and Gopi and Charu. Do you feel the film will consequently appeal to a broad demographic of cinemagoers?

Absolutely. It will appeal to a wide range of audience simply because that's the construct of its story.

How is Shaad Ali to work with as a director?

Amazing. He is so into what he does and is extremely passionate so that's very inspiring. At the same time he gives you that room to do what you would like to, in front of the camera.

You appear onscreen with Aditya Roy Kapur following the huge success of Aashiqui 2. Although different in genres, what sort of screen magic can audiences expect from you both once again?

The expectations are high and I do hope that the audience enjoys seeing us in this film. It is a different space from our first film together.

Tell us an interesting anecdote from the sets.

There are too many. One of the best things about this film was that everyone was very invested in the film personally. Especially the assistant directors.

How relatable was Tara as a character to you personally and how did you immerse yourself in

Amazing. He is so into what he does and is extremely passionate so that's very inspiring. At the same time he gives you that room to do what you would like to, in front of the camera.

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TECHNOLO TECHNOLO TECHNOLOGY TECHNOLOGY

TECHNOLOG technology TECHNOLOGY TECHNOLOGY TECHNOLO technology TECHNOLOGY

Acer Predator 21x: Perhaps Sony introduces Acer Predator 21x: Perhaps Sony introduces the most costly laptop and XAV-AX100 in-car the most costlyin-car laptop and XAV-AX100 audio system at $499 the world’s first curved audio system at $499 the world’s first curved screen notebook screen notebook

which lets the driver adjust the audio Apple CarPlay functionally allows you the other hand, lets you always sta system without taking his eyes off to use your smartphone in a safe and control of music, maps and more a which lets the driver adjust the audio Apple CarPlay functionally allows you the other hand, lets you always stay in

by RAHUL RAUT rahul@asian-standard.co.uk the road. It has four straightforward smart way letting you access apps like through the touchscreen. system without taking his eyes off to use your smartphone in a safe and control of music, maps and more all buttons: one is the Home Music and Maps.

You can also rahul@asian-standard.co.uk thephysical road. It has four straightforward smart Apple way letting you access apps like through the touchscreen.

As far as sound is concerned, AX10 button,buttons: a knobone forisvolume control andApple Music make and phone calls, physical the Home Maps.

Youand cansend also messages Sony Electronics introduced a new delivers powerfulAX100 sound, thanks to two other buttons forand skip make phone via touchscreen on the audio system As far as sound is concerned, button, a knobsmaller for volume control calls, and send messages car receiver that introduced brings lotsaof Sony Electronics new four 55-watt Dynamic Reality Amp forward and back. or vocally using Siri.

Android Auto, on delivers powerful sound, thanks its two other smaller buttons for skip via touchscreen on the audio system smartphone connectivity to your car receiver that brings Electronics lots of customise each Predator 21 to X with a desig This eye-tracking technology isonalso four Ahead of the Consumer and Acer’s CoolBoost app, that helps Extra BASS technology and a 10-b 55-watt Dynamic Reality Amp 2, forward and back. or vocally using Siri.

Android Auto, smartphone connectivity to your car.

XAV-AX100 supports both Apple customiseflag eachand Predator 21 X with a design, laser-engraved name onproduce the This eye-tracking technology is also Ahead theVegas, Consumer Acer’s CoolBoost app, that helps heavy Show in of Las AcerElectronics unveiled its and built into Acer's new Predator cool it down during particularly Extra BASS technology and a 10-band graphic equalizer which car.

XAV-AX100 supports both Apple CarPlay Auto, making flag andgraphic laser-engraved name on thethe black Show inand Las Vegas, Acer unveiled its it cool built into Acer's new Predator it down during particularly heavy maintenance panel and A, S a Predator 21 XAndroid gaming laptop claimed Z301CT 21:9 curved monitor, which use. equalizer which produce clear sound at any volume levelW, overco CarPlay and Android Auto, making it to use.

Sony’s first smart car audio system maintenance panel and the black A, Saand Predator 21 X gaming laptop claimed Z301CT 21:9 curved monitor, which Follow us on Facebook /AsianStandard or Twitter @Asian_St D keys can be swapped for different colo toSony’s be thefirst world’s first curved screen sound at any volume levelW, overcoming received the CES 2017 “Best of All of this is powered by 64GB of engine noise.

The device also com smart car audio system to Followthe usCES on 2017 Facebook Twitter @Asian_Standard D keys can beor swapped for a different colour. come both support.

The screen biggest All of this is powered by 64GB of to bewith the world’s first curved received “Best ofin the/AsianStandard engine noise.

The device also comes notebook.

The numeric keypad can be flipped over to Innovations” award computer DDR4-2400 memory, up to four 512GB with Bluetooth technology and an come with both support.

The biggest notebook. keypad cantechnology be flipped over to selling point of this new in-dash Innovations” award in the computer The numeric DDR4-2400 memory, up to four 512GB with Bluetooth and an become a touchpad, too. selling point of this new in-dash peripherals category. solid state drives and a 7200 RPM hard input for a rearview camera.

It al become input a touchpad, too. receiver isisits price tag of $499 (£380 peripherals category. state drives and a 7200 RPM hard for a rearview camera. It also For princely sum ofof $8,999 the solid receiver its price tag $499 (£380 has aconnectivity 3 pre-out connectivity ports drive of 1TB capacity.

Forthe the princely sum of $8,999 ininthe has a 3 pre-out ports British Pound) which is much muchcheaper cheaper drive of 1TB capacity.

British Pound) which is USUSand Europe (which At can the be conference, updatedtoits Predat that can beAcer connected external During the conference, Acer said that and€9,999 €9,999in infor Europe (which At the conference, Acer updated its Predator that connected to external During the conference, Acer said that and comfortable all compared to its and comfortable for all compared converts totoaround the to its The 21-inch IPS display has 2560 x 1080 amplifiers and accessories.

17 notebook X gaming notebook toother include the same converts around £8,550), £8,550), the the Predator 21 X features amplifiers and accessories.

17 X gaming toother include the same the Predator 21 X features Killer Killer The 21-inch IPS display has 2560 x 1080 big rivals. big rivals. X has a 7th Generation Predator Predator21 21 X has a 7th Generation processors as seen on the Predator 21 X. processors as seen on the Predator 21 X. DoubleShot Pro, which picks the resolution with a 120Hz refresh rate and DoubleShot Pro, which picks the resolution with a 120Hz refresh rate and Intel processor, five cooling For its downsiders, AX100 IntelCore Corei7i7 processor, five cooling For its downsiders, AX100 doesn’t come doesn’t fastestfastest network connection and network connection and eye-tracking technology fromfrom Tobii.Tobii.

This This eye-tracking technology XAV-AX100 appears aadouble XAV-AX100 appears to be be double fansand andnine nine heat pipes, and dual with video output or NFC fans heat pipes, and dual with input, output or N 12AUX WEEKENDER The Predator 21Predator X input, will be available in video North DIN system and comes with aa6.4-inch TheAUX 21 XAS will be available in Nort sends sends all highall priority traffic over it, over lets gamers spotspot enemies, aim and DIN system and comes with 6.4-inch high priority traffic it, pairing lets gamers enemies, aimtake and take unlike its competitors.

Also it NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 GPUs. It pairing unlike its competitors.

Als NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 GPUs. It America inAmerica February, but it won't arrive in clearand andresponsive responsive touchscreen with while standard traffic istraffic sent over cover by by gazing at objects on the screen in February, but it won't arrive clear touchscreen with while standard is sent over cover gazing at objects on the screen has only one USB located at the back at the in includesof Acer Dust Though Defender, 12 ASUSB WEEKENDER has only one located b includes Acer Dust Defender, aalso resolution 800*480. the Europe until October.

The Predator 17 X will the other.

This means games will inin certain titles including Elite aalso resolution of 800*480.

Though the October.

The charging Predator 17 X wi the other. This means games will certain titles including Elite ofEurope the unit,until which couldwhich make whichreportedly reportedly removes dust buildof the could cha screen resolution of of the screen panel which removes dust build- Dangerous, Deus Ex: Mankind Divided go on sale go thison month withunit, prices starting at make alwaysalways be played on the fastest link. screen resolution the screen panel sale this month with prices starting your phone difficult if you don’t have be played on the fastest link.

Dangerous, Deus Ex: Mankind Divided upnot and heat dissipation, upimproves to par with the quality new phone difficult if you don’t h $2,599, or €2,999 in your Europe. upis and heat dissipation, Customers can additionally Watch Dogs 2. is not upimproves to par with the quality new and other means. $2,599, or €2,999 in Europe.

Customers can additionally and Watch Dogs 2.

Android smartphones and iPhones are other means.

Android smartphones and iPhones providing, it’s still considered decent are XAV-AX100 will be available across providing, it’s display. still considered decent for an in-car It’s display is XAV-AX100 willpart be available acros North America from later of forresistive an in-car It’s display anddisplay. has physical buttonsis November North 2016. America from later part of resistive and has physical buttons November 2016.

by RAHUL RAUT

Sony introduces Sony introduces XAV-AX100 in-car XAV-AX100 in-car Twitter rolls out audio system at $499 Twitter rolls out audio system at $499 Quality Filter to all users

Quality Filter to all users to reduce harassment to reduce harassment

by RAHUL RAUT

rahul@asian-standard.co.uk by RAHUL RAUT

rahul@asian-standard.co.uk Sony Electronics introduced a new car receiver that brings lots of smartphone connectivity to your Sony Electronics introduced a new car. XAV-AX100 supports both Apple car receiverbythat brings lots of RAHUL RAUT CarPlay and Android Auto, making it smartphone connectivity to your Sony’s first smart car audio system to rahul@asian-standard.co.uk car.

XAV-AX100 both Apple come with both supports support. The biggest byAndroid RAHUL RAUT CarPlay and Auto, making it selling point of this new in-dash The micro-blogging website, Twitter Sony’s first smart audio system receiver is its pricecar tag of $499 (£380 to rahul@asian-standard.co.uk is taking another stepisforward to British Pound) much come with bothwhich support.

The cheaper biggest make it more place forto its and comfortable fornew all compared selling point of welcoming this in-dash discussion interaction.

The big rivals.

The micro-blogging website, Twitter receiver is itsand price tag of $499 (£380 has announced to roll out iscompany taking another stepisforward to British Pound) which much cheaper “Quality Filter” - which filter for low XAV-AX100 appears to belets aplace double make it more welcoming and comfortable for all compared to its quality notifications and DIN system and comesfrom withbots a 6.4-inch discussion and interaction.

The big rivals. spammers - to all users to reducewith clear and responsive touchscreen company hasofannounced to roll harassment.

ThisThough feature isout a aonline resolution 800*480. the “Quality Filter” which lets filter low XAV-AX100 appears to be a double new move to reduce molestation and screen resolution of the screen panel quality notifications from bots and DIN system comes with a 6.4-inch filters out “lower quality content” isitnot up to and par with the quality new spammers - to all tweets users to reduce clear and responsive touchscreen with such as smartphones duplicate oriPhones contents Android and are that appear be considered automated. harassment.

ThisThough feature is a providing, it’s decent aonline resolution oftostill 800*480. the for an in-car It’s display panel is and new move to display. reduce molestation screen resolution of the screen “Quality Filter” isphysical helpful for blocking and has buttons filters “lower quality content” isitresistive not up out to par with the quality new targeted harassment.

It automatically such as smartphones duplicate tweets oriPhones contents Android and are screens out tweets from suspicious that appear tostill be considered automated.decent providing, it’s accounts and minimize abuse from fortaking an in-car It’s display placedisplay. on the platform.

Thisis “Quality Filter” helpful for resistive hasisphysical buttons featureand restricts what kinds ofblocking tweets targeted harassment.

It automatically appear in a user’s notification tab. screens out tweets from suspicious “When turned on, the filter can accounts minimize abuseyou from improve and the quality of Tweets see taking place on theofplatform.

Thisas by using a variety signals, such account origin and behavior.

Turning feature restricts what kinds of tweets it on filters content, appear in a lower-quality user’s notification tab. like duplicate content “When turned Tweets on, theor filter can that

which lets the driver adjust the audio Apple CarPlay functionally allows you the other hand, lets you always stay in system without taking his eyes off to use your smartphone in a safe and control of music, maps and more all thewhich road. It hasthe four straightforward letting you access apps like touchscreen. lets driver adjust the audiosmart way Apple CarPlay functionally allowsthrough you thethe other hand, lets you always physical one is the his Home Maps.

You can also systembuttons: without taking eyes off Apple Music to useand your smartphone in a safe and control of music, maps and mor far as sound is concerned, AX100 button, a knob control and make phone sendyou messages the road.

It for hasvolume four straightforward smartcalls, wayand letting access appsAslike through the touchscreen. delivers powerful sound, thanks to its two other smaller buttons for skip via touchscreen on the audio system physical buttons: one is the Home Apple Music and Maps. You can also four 55-watt RealityisAmp 2, forward and back. for volume control andor vocally using Siri. calls, Android Auto, onmessages AsDynamic far as sound concerned, AX button, a knob make phone and send Extra BASS technology and a 10-band delivers powerful sound, thanks two other smaller buttons for skip via touchscreen on the audio system graphic equalizer which produce clear four 55-watt Dynamic forward back. from your vocally using Android Auto, on at any volume overcoming appears to beand automated, However,or this feature does Siri. not work yoursound preferences, you canlevel turn it on Reality Am Extra technology engine noise.

The BASS device also comes and a 10 notifications and other parts of your in the case of the people you follow. or off in your notifications settings.” graphic equalizer produc with Bluetooth technology and which an Twitter experience,” the company said “It does not filter content from people at camera. any volume appears to befeature automated, from youryou follow However, this feature does not work your preferences, youItcan turnoverc it on “Quality isn’t exactly a new inputFilter” for a sound rearview alsolevel announcing the in its blog or accounts you’ve recently feature Itinwas first rolled out has though. a 3or pre-out connectivity ports engine noise.

The device also co post. with – and depending notifications and other parts of yourinteracted in the case of the people on you follow. off your notifications settings.” last that yearcan but be was available only connected totoexternal with Bluetooth technology and Twitter experience,” the company said “It does not filter content from people verified accounts.

Up until amplifiers and other accessories.

“Quality Filter” isn’tonly exactly a newIt input for a now, rearview camera. announcing the feature in its blog you follow or accounts you’ve recently with blue checkmark had feature It was first rolledpor ou has though. a 3 pre-out connectivity post. interacted with – and dependingaccounts on For its last downsiders, AX100 doesn’t come the option of filtering out tweets. yearcan but was available only that be connected totoextern with AUX input, video output or NFC verified accounts. until now, only amplifiers andUp other accessorie Twitter has also made notification pairing unlike its competitors.

Also it accounts blue had settings widely available and easier has only one USBwith located at checkmark the back For itscould downsiders, AX100 doesn theboth option of filtering out tweets. to find across mobile and thecharging of the unit, which make with AUXif input, video output or web.your Everyone have the ability tohave phonewill difficult you don’t Twitter has also made notification A pairing unlike itsthey competitors. limitother notifications to only people means. settings widely available and easier has only one USB located at the follow.

XAV-AX100 will beunit, available across to find across both mobile thech of the which couldand make Filtering is Twitter’s another Northfeature America from later part ofif web.your Everyone will have the ability phone difficult you don’tt attempt to limit stemother the allegation November 2016. notifications to its only people the means. of lack of concern toward harassment, follow. which has grown into a major XAV-AX100 will be available acr problem for the company. Last Filtering is Twitter’s anothe Northfeature America from later part month Twitter made applications attempt to stem the allegation of its November 2016. for verification open for all users lack of concernthat toward and recently it announced it harassment which has grown into a major has suspended 360,000 accounts problem for the company.

Last for promoting terrorism.

In all way, Twitter is ensuring that its made serviceapplications is a month Twitter safe place to forbe. verification open for all users

Twitter rolls out Quality Filter to all users Twitter rolls out

improve the quality of Tweets you see by using a variety of signals, such as

and recently it announced that it has suspended 360,000 accounts for promoting terrorism. In all way,

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TECHNOLOGY

technology technology

Sony introduces Sony introduces Huwaie’s new honour 6x Huwaie’s new honour 6x XAV-AX100 in-car XAV-AX100 in-car audio system at $499 audio system at $499 Huawei Honor is attempting to appeal to the “internet-minded millennials who Huawei Honor is attempting to appeal to have a live by the ‘double or nothing’ the “internet-minded millennials philosophy,” and seemingly want who an have a livecamera by the ‘double or nothing’ advanced and a long-lasting philosophy,” seemingly want an battery, withand its new 6x device. advanced camera and a long-lasting The 6x device has a 5.5-inch display, a battery, new 6xthat device. dual-lenswith rearits camera combines a The 6xand device has a 5.5-inch display, by2MP RAHUL RAUT 12MP sensor, with an 8MP a dual-lens rear camera combines a sensor onrahul@asian-standard.co.uk the front, andthat a reported twoby2MP RAHUL RAUT 12MP and day battery life.sensor, with an 8MP sensor onrahul@asian-standard.co.uk the front, and a reported twoSony Electronics new end of day battery life. introduced Honor’s 6x phone sits at the ahigher car receiver that brings lots ofsimilarities the phone market, with many Sony Electronics introduced ahigher new end of smartphone connectivity to your Honor’s 6x phone sits flagship at the to the more powerful phones. car receiver that brings lots car.

XAV-AX100 supports bothofApple the phone market, with many similarities There isand no doubt there isto much smartphone connectivity yourto admire CarPlay Android Auto, making it to the more powerful flagship phones. about the Honor 6x even forsystem the older car.

XAV-AX100 supports both Apple Sony’s first smart car audio to There is no doubt there is much to admire generation.

CarPlay and Android Auto, making it come with both support.

The biggest about the Honor 6x even forsystem the older Sony’s audio to selling first pointsmart of thiscar new in-dash generation. come with both For example, atsupport. first look thebiggest 6X is receiver is its price tag ofThe $499 (£380 selling point of which thistonew in-dash strikingly similar Google’s Pixel in British Pound) is much cheaper For example, at first look theoff 6X isto receiver its price tag of $499 (£380 terms ofisdesign, which riffs the iPhone and comfortable for all compared its strikingly similar to Google’s in British Pound) which is significantly much Pixel cheaper big rivals. of course, yet the 6X is terms of design, which riffs offItthe iPhone and comfortable for all in compared to its cheaper; £375 cheaper fact. feels big rivals. of course, yet the 6X significantly XAV-AX100 appears toisbe awhich doubleis great lighter than these models, cheaper; £375 cheaper inlong fact.

It feels but DIN system and comes a periods, 6.4-inch when you’re using it forwith XAV-AX100 appears totouchscreen be awhich doubleiswith clear and responsive lighter than these models, does make it feel cheaper and less great DIN system and comes a periods, 6.4-inch a resolution ofusing 800*480.

Though the but when you’re forwith long premium, which ofitcourse it is. clear responsive touchscreen with screen resolution the screen panel doesand make it feel of cheaper and less a resolution of 800*480. the ispremium, not up towhich par with the Though quality of course it is. new screen of theand screen panel Androidresolution smartphones iPhones are is not up toit’s parstill with the quality new providing, considered decent Android smartphones and iPhones for an in-car display. It’s display is are providing, it’shas stillphysical considered decent resistive and buttons for an in-car display. It’s display is resistive and has physical buttons

It runs a Huawei operating system, which is based on Android, and is simple and It runs a to Huawei familiar use. operating system, which is based on Android, and is simple and familiar use. software doesn’t look as Huawei'stoEMUI

handset lives up to expectations with more than 24 hours battery time, despite making handset livesall uppush to expectations with more calls, having notifications enabled, than 24 hours battery time, despite watching videos and switching the making calls, having notifications enabled, brightness upall topush maximum. watching videos and switching the brightness up to maximum.

This is undoubtedly boosted by the huge

Honor 6X Specifications Honor 6X Specifications

Display: 5.5 inch 1920p x 1080p full HD display 16 xM1080p colors, Display: 5.5 inchwith 1920p 403 PPI full HD display with 16 M colors,

clean as iOS though and, as a result, there Huawei's EMUI software doesn’t lookalong as are constant notifications and icons clean asofiOS a result, there 403 PPI battery size in the 6X. This phone even puts the top thethough screenand, thatas make it look Size: 150.9mm 76.2mm which lets the driver adjust the icons audiovying allows youhuge the other hand, lets youxalways stayxin8.2mm ThisCarPlay is undoubtedly by the are constant and along Apple the iPhone 7functionally Plus to boosted shame. cluttered andnotifications seem to be constantly system without takingthat his eyes off to use yoursize smartphone in a safe and control of music, maps and more all battery in the 6X. This phone even puts the top of the screen make it look TheCarPlay camerafunctionally is also of reasonable quality,the other for your attention.

Size: 150.9mm 76.2mm which letsIt the adjust the audiovying Apple allows hand, lets youxalways stayxin8.2mm the road. hasdriver four straightforward smart way letting you apps you like through the touchscreen. the iPhone 7 Plus toaccess shame. cluttered and seem to be constantly providing decent images for the amateurcontrol Weight: system without taking his eyes off to use your smartphone in acan safe and of music,162g maps(including and more allthe physical buttons: one is the Home Apple Music and Maps.

You also The camera is also of reasonable quality, for your attention. photographer.

Visually, display is stunning the road.

Itthe has four straightforward smart way letting you access apps like through touchscreen.

As farbattery) asthe sound is concerned, AX100 button, a knob for volume controlwhen and make phone calls, and send messages providing decent images for the Weight: 162g (including the scrolling through photos but menus and physical buttons: one is the Home Apple Music and Maps.

You can alsoamateurdelivers powerful sound, thanks to its two other smaller buttons for skip via touchscreen on the audio system photographer.

Visually, the display is stunning when As far as sound is concerned, In terms of price, the Honor 6X pits itself icons are large and ugly, which dampens battery) button, a knob for volume control and make phone calls, and send messages four 55-watt Dynamic Reality AX100 Amp 2, forward and back. or vocally using Siri. Android Auto, on scrolling through photos but menus and via against System: powerful sound, thanks to its two smaller buttons for skip touchscreen on the audio system the likes of the OnePlus 3 (priced delivers at theother otherwise impressive screen.

ExtraOperating BASS technology and aHuawei 10-band In terms of price, the Honor 6X pits itself icons are large and ugly, which dampens 55-watt Dynamic Reality Ampclear 2, forward back. positioned on the rear or vocally using Siri.almost Android Auto, £329), and it can stand itson own four Having and the buttons graphic equalizer produce EMUI 4.1 which Operating System: Huawei against likesbrands of the OnePlus 3 (priced on at the otherwise screen.for Extra technology andovercoming a 10-band soundBASS at any volume level against the it. Both pride themselves of the handsetimpressive makes it perfect £329), it canits almost standreally its own Having on the is rear graphic equalizer which also produce clear EMUI 4.1 engine noise.

The device comes addingand features audience want or carryingthe outbuttons actionspositioned when the phone in Processor: Huawei Kirin soundBluetooth at any volume level overcoming against it. Both brands pride themselves on of thehand. handset it perfect for it to with technology and an 655, need at an incredibly accessible price your Youmakes can press and hold engine noise.

The device also comes adding features its audience really carrying out which actionsiswhen phone is in input for a rearview camera.

It also Octa-Core range. With the 6X, Honor won’t justwant or take a selfie, muchthe easier than Processor: Huawei Kirin with an 655, need atto anmillennials, incredibly accessible price your hand. You cana press hold it to has aBluetooth 3 pre-out technology connectivityand ports appeal it may even appeal to attempting to use thumband to hit the input for a rearview camera.

It also Octa-Core be connected to external range. the 6X, take a selfie, much Iteasier thanbe people With who want toHonor switchwon’t from just some of that can camera icon which on the is screen. can also 3340accessories. mAh ports battery has aBattery: 3 pre-out connectivity amplifiers and other appeal to millennials, it may even appeal to attempting to use a thumb to hit the the more expensive models without used to switch off alarms, whether the that can be connected to external people whotoo want to switch from cameraisicon screen.and It can sacrificing much on specs.

It’ssome not of amplifiers phone faceon upthe or down, youalso canbe Battery: 3340 mAh battery and other accessories.

For itsCharging downsiders, AX100 doesn’t come the more expensive models without used to switch off alarms, whether the duration: 2.5 hours perfect, but the battery life alone is worthwith AUX answer calls by holding the sensor, which input, video output or NFC sacrificing too much on specs.

It’s not phone is face up or down, and you can the switch your older device is grinding For again feels more natural than swiping theFollow hours, its(Airtime: AX100 doesn’t come us on ifFacebook /AsianStandard ordownsiders, Twitter @Asian_Standard pairing unlike its23 competitors.

Also it Charging duration: 2.5 hours perfect, answer calls byclaims holdingofthe sensor, which to a halt.but the battery life alone is worthhas screen.Honor’s a long lasting withonly AUX input, video output or back NFC one USB located at hours) the standby time: 600 the switch if your older device is grinding again feels more natural than swiping the (Airtime: 23 hours, /AsianStandard Twitter @Asian_Standard pairing unlike its competitors.

Also it battery are certainly not untrue, as the Follow us on Facebook of theor unit, which could make charging to a halt. screen.Honor’s claims of a long lasting has onedifficult USB located at the have back standby time: 600 hours) youronly phone if you don’t battery are certainly not untrue, as the of the means. unit, which could make charging other your phone difficult if you don’t have other means.

XAV-AX100 will be available across North America from later part of XAV-AX100 will be available across November 2016.

North America from later part of November 2016.

LG unveils radical ultrathin TV that LG unveils radical ultrathin TV that Sony introduces Twitter rolls out Sony introduces can be hung on the wall with magnets.

Twitter rolls out can be hung on the wall with magnets.

XAV-AX100 in-car Quality Filter to all users XAV-AX100 in-car Quality Filter to all users to reduce harassment audio system at $499 to reduce harassment audio system at $499

LG has revealed a 'wallpaper' TV which is just 2.6mm thin and so LG has revealed a 'wallpaper' TV light it can be hung on the wall which is just 2.6mm thin and so with MAGNETS light it can be hung on the wall

by RAHUL RAUT with MAGNETS Along with a series of new by RAHUL RAUT rahul@asian-standard.co.uk RAHUL the RAUT devices LGby unveiled ultra Along with a series of new rahul@asian-standard.co.uk by RAHUL RAUT thin LG Signature OLED W rahul@asian-standard.co.uk devices LG unveiled the ultra The micro-blogging website, Twitter television at the Consumer rahul@asian-standard.co.uk thin LG Signature OLED Wa new is taking anotherintroduced step forward to Sony Electronics Electronics show, The micro-blogging website, Twitter make it more welcoming place television atthat the Consumer car receiver brings lots of for is taking another step forward to discussion and interaction.

Sony Electronics introduced a new Electronics show, smartphone connectivity to The your make it more welcoming place for The 'wallpaper TV' (as lots it company hasthat announced tois roll out car receiver brings ofgoing car.

XAV-AX100 supports both Apple discussion and interaction.

The “Quality Filter” - which lets filter tosmartphone be known as) is just 2.57mm connectivity tomaking your lowit CarPlay and Android Auto, The 'wallpaper TV' from (as both itto isroll going company has announced out quality notifications bots and car.

XAV-AX100 supports Apple thin and the 65-inch model, Sony’s first smart car audio system to “Quality Filter” - which lets filter lowit tocome be known as) is just 2.57mm spammers - to all users toThe reduce CarPlay and Android Auto, making with both support. biggest mounts seamlesslyfrom to the wall to quality notifications bots and online harassment.

This feature is ato thin and the model, Sony’s first smart audio system selling point of65-inch thiscar new in-dash create the of ‘looking spammers -experience to all users reduce new move to reduce molestation and come with both support.

The biggest mounts seamlessly toofto the wall to receiver is its price tag $499 (£380 online This feature is a through a window into another it filtersharassment. out “lower content” selling point of which this quality new in-dash British Pound) is much cheaper create the experience of ‘looking new move to reduce molestation and suchcomfortable as duplicate tweets or contents world.’ receiver is its price tag of $499 (£380 and for all compared to its through a window into another it filters out “lower quality content” that appear to which be automated.

British Pound) is much cheaper big rivals. suchcomfortable as duplicatefor tweets or contents world.’ and all to its The company set tocompared market thatrivals. appear to is be automated.

“Quality Filter” is helpful for blocking big XAV-AX100 appears to be a double the device, which as Ityet has no targeted harassment. automatically The company set towith market DIN system andiscomes a 6.4-inch “Quality Filter” is date, helpful for blocking price or release as a screens out tweets from suspicious XAV-AX100 appears to be a double clear and responsive touchscreen the device, which as yet has nowith targeted harassment.

It automatically accounts and minimize abuse from 'wallpaper' TV DIN system and comes with a 6.4-inch a resolution of 800*480.

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yourthe preferences, you can turn it onstay in other hand, lets you always or off in your control ofnotifications music, mapssettings.” and more all yourthrough preferences, you can turn it onstay in the otherthe hand, lets you always touchscreen. or off in your “Quality Filter” isn’t exactly a new control ofnotifications music, mapssettings.” and more all feature though.

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North America from In later Twitter is ensuring that its service is a November 2016. safe place to be.

14

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TRAVEL

Make Dubai your first destination of 2017

by FATIMA PATEL fatima@asian-standard.co.uk

Dubai always makes a splash during New Year celebrations with the most extravagant fireworks displays kick starting the new year with a bang.

So, this edition we start our travels with one of the hottest and happening places in the UAE. Dubai starts the new year with festivals galore from cars to the world cup carnival with horses galloping down the race track it’s a wonderful sight for those who don’t mind a flutter or two. For the fashionistas, Dubai’s largest shopping festival is still on and runs till 28 January.

Dubai – The City of Gold During my visit, I had the good fortunate of staying on The Palm at the five star Fairmont The Palm.

The flamboyant, tall and extremely spacious surroundings amaze you at this Hotel, as it truly is made fit for a king...or queen in my case. The Hotel itself has so much to offer, that if you were a lazy on the beach type of holidaymaker, you wouldn’t need to

leave the Hotel at all because all your needs are catered for The luxury hotel provides guests with a variety of dining options. Guests can experience the vibrant ambience of the Brazilian restaurant Frevo. The elegant Flow Kitchen is the perfect place for culinary delights from Europe, Middle East and Asia. Savour afternoon tea in the comfort of the Mashrabiya lounge or in the evening, head to Seagrill on 25º Restaurant & Lounge and watch the spectacular sunset over the Dubai Marina’s skyline, while sipping on one of their oh so gorgeous signature beverages.

We had the good fortune of eating at the Frevo. I’m not really a meat eater, so when I was told we were going to be indulging in 15 different cuts of meat of lamb, beef and chicken, I was slightly worried. However, the whole experience and the challenge of getting through the selection is what made this an exceptional eating out experience. Large succulent cuts of meat, all served on skewers of lamb, beef and chicken are carved at the table. The meat I must say was served brilliantly with a large selection of salads and other delicious

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TRAVEL accompaniments. Thank goodness for the lamp on the table, (where as long as the light is on the meats keep coming out, but once you put the light out, the meats stop). I managed to eat eight different cuts...I don’t think I would have survived all 15.

However the buzz and excitement of eating in a group and seeing who can eat maximum or all 15 meat cuts is definitely one for the memory book.

Another great place to eat was the Spectrum on One, this place is truly amazing, situated on the second floor

whole day of eating and sampling the huge range of delicious, well presented and amazingly prepared food.

Dubai truly is the luxury holiday, apart from it’s amazing beaches and resorts, the shopping experience has been hailed as the best in the world.

Right from the gold souks to the hugely impressive shopping Malls.

My personal favourite was the Dubai Mall.

The Dubai Mall is the world's largest shopping mall with 1,200 shops of every designer brand you can imagine. It is said that if the Dubai Mall doesn’t have the brand, then the brand doesn’t exist....

Can you believe we actually got lost in The Mall and had to have our tour guide come and find us. So, for you shopaholics, make sure you spare a couple of days at least for this amazing place, especially right now as the Dubai shopping festival is in full flow and runs until 28 January.

Trust me Dubai has everything that a shopaholic ever needs, all one needs now is a decent bank balance to pay for everything.

The hunt for Gabbar Singh, perfect if with a group of friends. So much fun.

of Fairmont’s other Dubai Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road. Spectrum on One features eight interactive kitchens specialising in six influential cuisines from India, Thailand, Japan, China, Europe and the Middle East. So if your friend fancies Indian and you fancy Chinese, at Spectrum on One, you have the best of both cuisines and many more. Visitors tend to come here for brunch, but with unlimited access to cuisines (huge buffet selection at each kitchen) your spoilt for choice as you can easily make a

For all you Bollywood fans, you are going to be mighty impressed with the world’s first ever theme park dedicated to all things Bollywood.

With over 1.7 million square feet the theme park is dedicated to celebrating Mumbai’s legendary film industry in 5 zones inspired

by Bollywood blockbusters, live entertainment, stage performances and flamboyant cinematic rides.

My personal favourite was the Sholay:

Before I sign off, I must mention the Burj Khalifa. Coming to Dubai and not visiting the world’s tallest building is impossible. The Burj Khalifa really does live up to the hype we’ve all read in the reviews and seen in pictures. With over 160 stories and a staggering height of 828 metres, the view from the 124th floor is one mesmerising and awestruck experience. With the building located in the heart of downtown Dubai, you really get to see the magnificent urban masterpiece of attractive and modern architecture that is Dubai.

Dubai really has something for everyone. Dubai is bustling with business activity and has all the facilities to enable successful and hassle free business trip and on the other hand it’s amazing child friendly facilities and activities such as the Wild Wadi and the technically advanced Indoor Sega Theme Park make is the perfect destination for a family holiday.

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NEWS

Guru Gobind Singh Birth Anniversary; Gurpurab: 10 facts about 10th Sikh Guru on 350th Prakash Parv The Sikh Community across the country celebrated the 350th birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh on 5 January. Guru Gobind Singh is one of the ten preachers of the Sikh religion. According, to the Julian Calendar, Guruji was born as Gobind Rai on December 22 in 1666.

However, as per lunar calendar, the day of January 5 is considered as the birth date of Guru Gobind Singh and celebrations are held accordingly.

Guru Gobind Singh’s teachings have inspired the Sikh community and others for generations. He was The Tenth Nanak or the last of the Sikh preachers to live. The Sikh community celebrates the day offering special prayers at gurudwaras and reminiscing Guruji’s teachings.

Celebrations were also made in India, where 350 British Sikhs flew to the Indian city of Patna. As part of the Guru Gobind Singh celebrations langar’s are offered, where food is served to the needy. British Sikhs were in Patna preparing food and serving it to pilgrims and deevotees Here are some interesting facts about the respected teacher 1. Guru Gobind Singh was formally anointed as the leader of the Sikhs at

age nine, thus he became the last of the living Sikh Gurus.

2. Gobind Rai, was later named as Guru Gobind Singh. He was born to the ninth Guru of Sikhism, Guru Teg Bahadur and Mata Gujri at Patna Sahib or Takht Sri Patna Sahib. He spent the first seven years of his life in Patna.

3. Guru Gobind Singh’s father, Guru Tegh Bahadur, was beheaded for refusing to convert to Islam. To protect Kashmiri Hindus, he accepted martyrdom in the hands of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.

4. The Patna Sahib gurudwara is significant to Sikh history as it’s regarded as the second ‘takht’ after Amritsar’s Golden Temple.

Guru Gobind Singh reportedly also mentions the city of Patna in his autobiography ‘Bachitra Natak’.

5. Guru Gobind Singh knew languages including Sanskrit, Urdu, Hindi, Braj, Gurmukhi and Persian. He also learned martial arts.

6. Guru Gobind Singh’s contribution to Sikhism is also notable. He founded the Sikh warrior community called Khalsa in 1699 and introduced the

Five Ks, which are the five articles of faith among Khalsa Sikhs. Guru Gobind Singh is known for his contribution to Sikh texts.

7. Guru Gobindji earlier lived in Anandpur Sahib, which is the present Rupnagar district in Punjab.

However, he left the place and went to live in Himachal Pradesh. Following a scuffle with Bhim Chand, he was invited by Mat Prakash, the king of Simur to live in the hills.

8. Guru Gobind Singh founded the Paonta Sahib Gurudwara and preaches Sikh principles when he lived in South Sirmur in Himachal Pradesh. He also wrote texts on Sikh religion and had gained followers in three years.

9. In 1699, Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa Vani – “Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki fateh”. He named all his followers with the title Singh, which means lion.

10. Guru Gobind Singh named Guru Granth Sahib, the religious text of the Khalsas and the Sikhs, as the next Guru of the two communities. He passed away on October 7, 1708

Guru Gobind Singh

British sikhs in India offering langar

Celebrations were also made in India, where 350 British Sikhs flew to the Indian city of Patna. As part of the Guru Gobind Singh celebrations langar’s are offered, where food is served to the needy.

British Sikhs were in Patna preparing food and serving it to pilgrims and deevotees

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POLITICS

MPs call for compulsory English classes for immigrants

by ITRAT BASHIR

itrat@asian-standard.co.uk

Immigrants should be required to learn English language before coming to live in the UK, or be enrolled in compulsory classes when they arrive, the cross party group of MPs and peers said.

The All Party Parliamentary Group on Social Integration (APPG) launches its first report into how the UK’s immigration system could more effectively promote integration. The report follows five months of hearings from social integration experts and visits to communities where immigration has increased rapidly over recent years.

devolve substantial immigration powers to the UK’s nations and regions through Canadian-style region specific visas, with quotas agreed by devolved administrations and city regions.

The report says shaping immigration criteria to address nation or regionspecific economic and cultural needs could instill confidence among members of the public that

The cross party group of MPs and peers calls for a new national government strategy for the integration of immigrants that includes issues such as access to the labour market, awareness of the UK’s laws, traditions and culture.

One of the main arguments the report makes is for the government to ensure integration is built into the process of settling in to the UK and that all immigrants should be expected to have either learned English before coming to the UK or be enrolled in compulsory ESOL classes upon arrival.

The Group says the Home Office should investigate whether new immigrants could be placed on pathways to citizenship automatically upon their arrival.

Another key argument is a call to

the immigration system works for their area and give incentives for politicians to actively make the case for immigration in their area.

The report also says that Ministers need to recognise that integration is a two way street requiring action on the part of newcomers and host communities. They should look at the impact of any post-Brexit immigration policy on social integration and do more to make sure immigration policy and rhetoric is not conflated with issues of counter-terrorism.

It further suggested that councils should set up local integration action plans, a new controlling migration fund and the immediate introduction of an integration impact fund.

Speaking ahead of the launch of the report, Chuka Umunna MP, chair of the APPG on Social Integration, said, “It is clear that immigration has impacted on different communities in different ways and the pace of change

According to him, we now need a meaningful integration programme, which works for all parts of the UK and an immigration policy that allows all to celebrate and look beyond our differences - a middle way between the laissez-faire multiculturalism favoured by successive British governments and the assimilationist politics of the French Burkini ban.

“In the wake of the Brexit vote,

It is clear that immigration has impacted on different communities in different ways and the pace of change has alarmed many. The government has a duty to address the lack of integration of immigrants if it is to address this. Failing to do so has left a vacuum for extremists and peddlers of hate to exploit.

Chuka Umunna MP, chair of the APPG on Social Integration has alarmed many. The government has a duty to address the lack of integration of immigrants if it is to address this. Failing to do so has left a vacuum for extremists and peddlers of hate to exploit.”

we must develop a new approach to immigration, which works for everyone in our country and helps us rebuild a divided nation - a system with integration at its heart,” he added.

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POLITICS

New Environmental Protection Act needed after Brexit

by ITRAT BASHIR

itrat@asian-standard.co.uk

The Environmental Audit Committee has called on the government to introduce a new Environmental Protection Act during Article 50 negotiations to maintain the UK's strong environmental standards.

In the report, ‘The Future of the Natural Environment after the EU Referendum’, the parliamentarians are warning the government that environmental protections must not be weakened during the process of leaving the EU or afterwards.

Chair of the Environmental Audit Committee, Mary Creagh MP observed that “changes from Brexit could put our countryside, farming and wildlife at risk”.

“Protections for Britain's wildlife and special places currently guaranteed under European law could end up as 'zombie legislation' even with the Great Repeal Bill,” she warned.

According to her, the government should safeguard protections for Britain's wildlife and special places in a new Environmental Protection Act. UK farming faces significant risks, from a loss of subsidies and tariffs on farm exports to increased competition from countries with weaker food, animal welfare and environmental standards.

“The government must not trade away these key protections, as we leave the EU. It should also give clarity over any future farm subsidies,” she added.

The Environmental Audit Committee report suggests that protections for wildlife and habitats could be weaker after the UK leaves the EU if the government doesn't take action before, or in the early stages of the Article 50 process.

In the report, the MPs looked at the legislative, trade, and financial issues and made recommendations for action to secure the future of the natural environment. They call on the government to allow full parliamentary scrutiny of its plans

for the future of environmental legislation after Brexit.

Case study: the Bird and Habitats Directives:

The Birds and Habitats directives protect wild birds, and Britain’s the most important wildlife and plant habitats. These directives will no longer apply in their current form

in UK law, even if the UK remains in the Single Market. The report warns that this could have potentially farreaching negative consequences for the UK’s biodiversity.

Labour too weak to win next elections alone, Fabian Society

by ITRAT BASHIR itrat@asian-standard.co.uk

Labour party is ‘too weak’ to win the general elections alone and thus it should consider joining forces with other political parties, reveals a report of the Fabian Society.

Andrew Harrop, the Fabian Society’s general secretary, observed, “Labour has no realistic chance of winning an election outright. To win a majority of one the party will probably need to beat the Tories by more than in 2001; such was the scale of its Scottish meltdown.

“So a wounded Labour party will have to get used to the idea that it will need to work alongside others. But the party is not going to die either, because the quirks of the British electoral system create a firebreak: even if Labour’s vote share plummets, the party will still have far more MPs than any other opposition party and a sufficient parliamentary platform to start to rebuild.”

Labour Leader Jeremy Corbyn

He observed that Labour remains

strong in urban pockets but is faring very badly in by-elections. “If the opinion polls are any guide, it could soon cease to be a nationally competitive political force. In Scotland there is no sign of recovery. And in England and Wales the party is only matching the level it achieved at the 2010 election, even though midterm polls normally favour Labour oppositions.”

He feared that “even if the party’s numbers sink no further, at the next election it is on course to win under 200 seats for the first time since 1935”.

Harrop was also critical of Jeremy Corbyn leadership by saying that “the Corbynite left has won the big internal battles but it seems to have no roadmap for winning back lost voters”.

“And on Brexit, the greatest political question for two generations, the party’s position is muffled and inconsistent. This is the calm of stalemate, of insignificance, even of looming death,” he added.

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BUSINESS & FINANCE

New Year brings new penalties for offshore tax evaders

by ITRAT BASHIR itrat@asian-standard.co.uk

A new law has come into force in 2017 that will penalise financial advisors who help their clients avoid tax.

According to a government spokesperson, the raft of measures will create a level playing field for the vast majority of people and businesses who play fair and pay what is due. Accountants, bankers, lawyers and other advisors who enable offshore tax evasion will face tough new sanctions from January 1.

The new powers will see individuals or corporates who take deliberate

action to help others evade paying tax facing fines of up to 100 percent of the tax they helped evade or £3000, whichever is highest. On top of this the taxman will also be able to publicly name the enabler.

While tax evasion has always been illegal, this law will mean HMRC can, for the first time, charge civil penalties on the facilitators of the tax evasion who provide planning, advice or other professional services or physically move funds offshore.

The UK is one of the first countries in the world to introduce this power, which was originally announced at Budget 2015 and legislated for in the Finace Bill 2016.

Commenting on the new law, Financial Secretary to the Treasury Jane Ellison said, “Tax evasion is a crime and as a government we have led reform of the international tax system to root it out. Closer to home we are creating a tax system where taxes are fair, competitive and paid.

“The raft of measures we have introduced to tackle avoidance and evasion will create a level playing field for the vast majority of people and businesses who play fair and pay what is due.”

This year will also see the government introduce a new corporate criminal offence of failing to prevent the facilitation of tax evasion. Under the new rule currently being legislated

for, companies will be held liable if an individual acting on its behalf as an employee or contractor facilitates tax evasion. Previously there needed to be proof that the board of directors were aware and involved in facilitating the evasion.

This is alongside introducing a new requirement to correct past tax evasion, which will see anyone who has failed to correct past evaded taxes by September 30, 2018, hit with tough new penalties, and consulting on a new requirement for businesses and individuals who create complex offshore financial arrangements that bear the hallmarks of enabling tax evasion to notify them to HMRC.

£7 billion unlocked in expansion of the government’s affordable housing programme to meet the diverse housing needs of the country.

by ITRAT BASHIR itrat@asian-standard.co.uk

Communities Secretary Sajid Javid has unlocked £7 billion in a dramatic expansion of the government’s affordable housing programme to meet the diverse housing needs of the country.

The £7 billion programme will deliver more than 200,000 homes, disclosed a government’ spokesperson.

Housing providers can now apply for a share of the fund, which was allocated an additional £1.4 billion at the Autumn Statement to deliver 40,000 new affordable housing starts across the country.

Alongside this extra funding, the government is expanding the existing affordable homes programme to offer a wider range of ways of helping people into home ownership and to provide support for those that need affordable housing.

By expanding the variety of tenures available, which now includes affordable rent, shared ownership and rent to buy, the programme will help meet the housing needs of a wider range of people in different circumstances and at different stages of their lives.

This includes homes for rent to buy,

which will be let with rents set at or below 80 per cent of the local market rent for a set time period, giving tenants the opportunity to save for a deposit and then the option to buy their current home.

Commenting on the new measure taken by the government, Communities Secretary Sajid Javid said, “This government is committed to increasing housing supply and halting the decline in affordability.

“Our newly expanded affordable housing programme, turbo-charged by a multi-billion pound investment, will allow housing associations to build more homes in places where they are most needed, particularly for families who are just about managing.

“By encouraging the delivery of more homes under a variety of tenures, we can create a housing market which truly works for everyone, meeting the diverse housing needs of this country.”

The government said that the expanded programme will also allow providers the flexibility and agility to respond to local needs and markets.

This will boost house-building by encouraging providers to deliver a mix of homes for both affordable rent and low-cost ownership that is most suited to each place.

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BUSINESS & FINANCE

The British Pound Coin: The most secure coin in the world

by KAMERON ABBAS

kam@asian-standard.co.uk

The government has confirmed that the new 12-sided £1 coin will be circulated into the general population on the 28th March 2017.

The round pound coins will run side by side until the 15th October when they will lose their legal status.

David Gauke, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury said: “March 28th should be an important date in everybody’s calendar this year - as we will have a new ‘quid’ on the block”.

In recent years, it has become a custom to change the designs on the British pound coin with 25 different ones recorded. However, this is the first time that the coin itself will change since it first came into

circulation fully in 1983.

Described as ‘the most secure coin in the world’ there will be over 1.5 billion produced at the Royal Mint in Llantrisant, Wales. It is harder t counterfeit with a number of new features that include: • 12 sided - The new shape adds a clear distinction between the two British pound coins and harder to replicate visually, by touch and even sound.

• Hidden Secret Security Feature - Within the coin, there is a secret feature built in but the government has yet to reveal what this is.

• Hologram - There will be a ‘£’ symbol that will also transform into the number ‘1’ when viewed from different angles.

• Bimetallic - It is coloured gold on the outer ring (nickel-brass) and the silver coloured on the inner ring (nickel-plated alloy).

• Micro-lettering - On the heads side of the coin, there will be tiny lettering that reads: ONE POUND. On the tails side, there will the year the coin was produced.

• Milled Edges - There are grooves etched onto both sides of the coin.

The history of British pound coin holds much more weight and significance in the currency milestones of the UK. It was originally introduced into circulation to replace th £1 notes that were becoming inconvenient with the rising currency and changes within the economy.

Alongside this new release, there will be 3 other designs to other coins. The

£2 pound coins will pay tribute to World War one and Jane austen with

the 50p etching a design honouring Sir Isaac Newton.

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BUSINESS FEATURE

Sleep deprivation costs the economy billions – and sends workers to an early grave

By David Spencer Professor of Economics and Political Economy, University of Leeds

The British economy loses £40 billion a year due to sleep deprivation, according to a new study. Beyond the loss of economic output, sleepdeprived Britons are shortening their lives. The study shows that people who sleep less than six hours a night have a 13 per cent higher mortality rate than those sleeping at least seven hours.

Many Britons, in short, are swapping slumber for an early grave. They are sacrificing years of their life by not getting a good night’s sleep.

But what lies behind this sleep malaise? What is keeping Britons awake at night? And what can be done to combat sleep deprivation?

Many factors contribute to sleeplessness, from family worries through to financial concerns. But one factor that stands out is work.

The work we do determines how much sleep we get by affecting how tired we are, how anxious we feel, and how much free time we get.

Thus, sleep loss cannot be properly solved without addressing the way we work – in particular, it entails moves to kick the work ethic and to work less.

The costs of sleeplessness The study by research firm Rand Europe looks at the effects of sleep deprivation in five countries. It finds that the economic cost (in terms of working days lost) due to lack of sleep is greatest in the US (up to US$411 billion a year, equating to 2.28% of its GDP), followed by Japan (up to US$138 billion a year, equal to 2.92% of its GDP). Next comes Germany (up to US$60 billion, 1.56% of its GDP) and the UK (up to US$50 billion, 1.86% of its GDP). Canada records the lowest economic cost due to sleep deprivation (up to US$21.4 billion, which is 1.35% of its GDP).

These estimates are used to show the significant economic benefits of extending sleep time. For example, if Americans that sleep less than six hours could start sleeping six to seven hours, then the US economy could grow by US$226.4 billion.

The important added benefit of extended sleep time is that it reduces the chances of premature death.

Low sleep levels are a reflection of new trends in our relationship with work. The divide between work and life outside of work has become blurred. People now find themselves at work even when at home. The

expectation of being on call outside of work has increased, through the use of smartphones and laptops.

Plus, while official work hours may have declined in most countries, unofficial (out-of-hours) working has increased. This time is not only performed for free; it also comes at the cost of time with family and friends, and crucially time for sleep.

Workers cannot easily switch-off from work if they have access to technologies that connect them to their place of work. Checking email can often replace going to sleep. It can also mean lying awake at night thinking of what emails to send or reply to.

is that “work pays” even though for many it lacks any stimulating content, pays a pittance, and is performed at the expense of sleep.

Timid reforms The study by Rand Europe, despite its critical implications, reaches weak policy recommendations. It refers to the need for people to “set consistent wake-up times; limit the use of electronic items before bedtime; and exercise”. Missing is any reference to peoples’ lack of choice and control. The inability to switch-off from work is not recognised as an endemic problem, in need of collective solutions.

Recent years have also seen a rise in self-employment and other forms of precarious work. This rise has left workers vulnerable to a neverending cycle of work. Even when not working, time is spent seeking new work or chasing payment from work already done. The stress and anxiety of not having the same benefits as full-time workers and of getting-by on low wages makes for a life where sleep is short and disturbed.

Employers are encouraged to recognise the “importance of sleep” and to “design and build brighter workspaces; combat workplace psychosocial risks; and discourage the extended use of electronic devices”. These are laudable goals but they miss how employers benefit from out-of-hours working (at least in the short run) and how they may be encouraged to turn a blind-eye to sleep deprivation for profit reasons.

Meanwhile, society’s approach to work remains the same as it ever was. The sanctity of work remains unquestioned, despite it taking time away from sleep and robbing people of their health. In Britain, work is still lauded as the best way to prosperity and health. The illusion

Public authorities are encouraged to “support health professionals in providing sleep-related help; encourage employers to pay attention to sleep issues; and introduce later school starting times”. Again there is nothing here on overcoming the deeper-lying

limits to sleep time, which connect with the work system as a whole.

We are left with the false impression that sleep deprivation can be tackled in a piecemeal way and without broader action, such as curbs on work time, extended paid holidays, and stronger unions.

Dreams of a better world Being constantly at work and losing sleep is not good for anyone. It ultimately reflects a culture where work comes before life. It represents a world out of sync with humanity – a perversion of life and a road to ruin.

This is why more radical solutions are needed. Gaining more sleep requires creating a society in which work is less important in human life.

It necessitates a move to a society where leisure and rest are given their due weight and technology is actually harnessed to enable more rest and less work – not the opposite.

The demand for more sleep translates into a demand for less work. This means shorter work hours and more free time. It means a life where we rest easy in our beds, get enough sleep, and have the opportunity to dream of a better world to come.

This article originally appeared in The Conversation.

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BUSINESS & FINANCE

Money Talk

with our finance expert

Shabab Gulfraz

2016 – A good year to get Britain saving.

2016 was indeed a rollercoaster year for all of us in the UK. I guess most of us have felt the uncertainty, the negativity, and generally prices beginning to slowly increase.

Uncertainty generally means that we as consumers spend less, and put a little bit more away for a rainy day. Perhaps this is human nature because we want a safety net around us, just in case things get bad. This is certainly true of 2016, as banking data suggests we as a nation made or personal deposits grow from circa £20 billion pounds in 2015 to just over £32 billion pounds in 2016.

Now personally I know we hear allot

about consumer spending, and that when it is low the economy does not do as well. Well for me if we are saving funds, and now blowing them, then this a good thing because as a country we are becoming more responsible with our cash. This means that by doing so we are not hopefully going to fall into a spiral of debt.

The second aspect of saving is where to put the money. Well, in my view the first thing to do is shop about for a high interest current account. This way one can get the maximum rate of interest on short term cash held in current accounts. I would research such accounts on the internet, and just apply online.

I still believe though that we need to be saving enough to have at least 3 months gross household income in the bank to ensure we have a good cushion of funds. This is the financial adviser in me coming out; however in my mind when someone begins to build a safety net around them, then this will increase with time.

I would also look at savings accounts that pay well. I recently came across an account for my daughter, which pays 2.5% on all kid’s savings, which is quite a good rate for kids, and is a good way of starting to put a little away per month.

I would also look to see if you

can afford to pay a bit extra on the mortgage. This is because by making small but regular payments you will be able to get ahead on your payments. This will reduce the time period of your mortgage as well as saving interest. I know there are advisers out there that tend to focus on building savings and investments, but in my view reducing liabilities is perhaps just as important as building investments, if not more important.

Overall, as we are nearly at the start of 2017 I would give you five hints for a healthy start to the year: • Pay off all credit card balances on

time to avoid interest; • Pay off small chunks on loans and credit cards as and when you can to avoid high interest; • Keep a rainy day fund for those unexpected events; • Start saving something, as its far better to save a little than nothing at all; •Start thinking long term about money to make sure you realise your goals.

Happy new year!!!

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LEGAL TALK

LUKE PATEL

Luke Patel is a Partner at Leeds law firm Blacks Solicitors LLP specialising in commercial dispute resolution and heads up that team. Luke was the winner of the Best Professional in Business award at the Asian English Business Awards 2013. Described in the Legal 500 as “exceptional” he primarily acts for individuals, owner managed businesses and SME’s in a wide range of sectors including financial, insurance, property and construction.

A Warranty is not a Representation Typically businesses are sold by way of a Share Purchase Agreement (“SPA”). It is usual for the SPA to contain a number of warranties given by the seller to the buyer. A warranty is a promise or assurance, usually about the state of affairs of the business, and forms a contractual term in the SPA. If it transpires that the warranty is false then the buyer is entitled to bring a claim for damages against the seller. Normally the SPA will set a time limit for bringing such a claim.

So what is the position if a buyer discovers that there has been an

untrue warranty given by the seller after the time limit for bringing the claim for breach of warranty has expired? This is exactly what occurred in the High Court case of Idemitsu Kosan Co Limited v Sumitomo Co Corp.

In that case, to get around the fact that it was out of time for bringing a claim for breach of warranty, the buyer tried to argue that matters which had been warranted by the seller were also representations which had been misrepresented to the buyer by the seller. Misrepresentation is where one party makes an untrue

statement of fact to another party who then relies on that statement in entering into a contract and suffers loss as a result. The remedy for misrepresentation is a claim for damages but, in certain circumstances, the buyer can set aside the contract. Crucially, whereas a breach of warranty claim will have a strict contractual limitation period (18 months in this particular case) a misrepresentation claim has a limitation period of 6 years from the date of the breach.

For the buyer to succeed in this case, it had to prove that the statements

made in the warranties in the SPA also amounted to representations.

However, the Court decided that the warranties in the SPA were clearly identified as warranties and that there was no evidence that the parties intended the content of the warranties to also be representations.

Further, the SPA contained an “Entire Agreement” Clause which excluded reliance on any pre-contract communications or representations.

It was the presence of this clause in the SPA that was key to the Court deciding in favour of the seller as that clause specifically excluded any claims for misrepresentation and stated that the buyer acknowledged that it had not relied on any representations or warranties other than the warranties contained in the SPA. The clause meant that any precontractual representations (save for a fraudulent misrepresentation), even if untrue were irrelevant unless they appeared in the SPA itself, but, even if they did appear as a warranty, any claim had to be brought within the time limit set out in the SPA for it to be valid.

This case highlights the need for careful drafting of SPAs and the need for buyers to be aware of applicable time limits for pursuing a claim within a SPA. The Commercial Dispute Resolution team at Blacks has extensive experience in dealing with breach of warranty and misrepresentation claims. If you require assistance, please contact Luke Patel on 0113 227 9316 or by email at “LPatel@ LawBlacks.com”.

You can also follow Luke Patel on Twitter @LukeLawBlacks

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OPINION

by ALISON BELLAMY alison@asian-standard.co.uk

Halal turkey is sell-out success ‘Have you had a good Christmas?’ asked my Muslim friend in the playground this morning. It was the first day back, as we dropped our children off at the school gates.

For some reason I asked my friend if they had made a turkey curry, but quickly realised I was being somewhat presumptuous, thinking that Asian folk eat curry all the time.

‘Yes, it was great. Have you had a nice break?’ I asked. I remembered how kind she had been during Eid bringing us tasty, platefuls of food. I thought that perhaps I should have offered the same in return, but she insisted it was not necessary.

She explained with a smile, as if she had heard the turkey curry joke many times before, that they enjoyed a full roast dinner with gravy and all the trimmings, including Brussel sprouts, with no curry or chapatti in sight for a day or two.

She told me how her family and extended family adored Christmas time, despite the fact that Muslims don’t celebrate it as a religious festival, but more commonly as a secular holiday nowadays.

She said it made a nice change to have an ‘English’. We laughed and recalled the famous comedy sketch from ‘Goodness Gracious Me’, when a group of Indian people go out for an English meal.

‘We don’t celebrate Christmas and all the festivities as such, but do enjoy all that time off, plus we love seeing the kids perform in the school nativity play and best of all, get to cook a turkey roast dinner, what’s not to like? We have the best of both worlds,’ she said.

The comedians Sanjeev Bhaskar, Kulvinder Ghir, Meera Syal and Nina Wadia always give good comedy value and are never afraid to state the obvious, avoiding political correctness whenever possible.

In fact they really need to make a comeback sometime soon, as I remember laughing so hard at their witty observations about British life.

She was especially proud that her little boy had played one of the three kings in the performance and told me how all the family had been to watch him.

The mention of a turkey dinner was a surprise to me. But it turns out that halal turkey is big news, with some halal butchers selling out of the festive meat treat in December, it has been in such demand.

I was even surprised to hear there are some free-range halal turkey farms here in the UK. An internet order and delivery to your home is also an option. Who knew? Not me.

But I’m not really a meat lover.

My friend also went round to visit her white, British neighbours on Christmas Day and said she had enjoyed seeing a typical ‘English’ Christmas close up. Although perhaps, there is no such thing as typical anymore? Our world is constantly changing.

So much for a lack of integration in the UK, well that is according to the Daily Mail newspaper, if you read it. How much more integrated can you get than enjoying a traditional, turkey dinner and visiting your next door neighbour with good wishes?

Where I live in the north of England I

feel integration is really happening.

Time and again I see children as the shining example of how we should all behave. Our young people go happily about their business without prejudice and in the main part, have fun, when they are not studying or learning, of course.

I noticed in the media that some restaurants were offering a free Christmas dinner to homeless and needy people. The Shish Restaurant in Sidcup, London, offered a three-

course dinner to anyone who wanted it or felt lonely.

Comments listed after the article I read, asked why the owners of an Asian restaurant should get all the praise, when there were lots of other people giving out free lunches. I think the bandwagon commentators may well be missing the point here, as integration is a two way street and all involved need to make an effort.

And here an extra special effort was

made in my opinion, a random act of kindness to celebrate a festival and do a good deed for people in need they did not know.

So, after the school run, I was glad to hear that halal butchers had sold out of turkey and that my friend, who happens to be Muslim had really enjoyed the festive break.

And who knows what next year might bring? Turkey curry may well be on the menu.

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MOTORING

Mclaren automotive sales surge to near100% increase in 2016

McLaren Automotive, the British manufacturer of luxury sports and supercars, has recorded another record year of sales growth with a near-doubling of its sales volume year-over-year, selling a total of 3,286 cars in 2016 compared to 1,654 in 2015. The 99.3 per cent improvement in sales performance also follows the company’s announcement of a third consecutive year of profitability in 2015 and the production milestone of the company’s 10,000th car, all capping another highly successful and record-breaking year.

Mike Flewitt, Chief Executive Officer of McLaren Automotive, commented: ‘2016 was a remarkable year for McLaren Automotive. We’d planned

it to be a year of considerable growth, thanks to the first full year of Sports Series production, but it’s surpassed even our own optimistic expectations, having seen development in all regions. We’ve also invested significantly in our future.

The launch of the second shift at the McLaren Production Centre this time last year gives us the capacity for future volume increase and in March, we launched Track22, our six-year business plan, that demonstrates the longer-term future for the company, with 15 all new cars or derivatives planned between now and 2022. I look forward to showing the world the first of those 15 new cars in Geneva: the second-generation McLaren Super Series.’

SALES INCREASE IN ALL REGIONS The dramatic sales development, from 1,654 cars in 2015 to 3,286 cars in 2016, was thanks to growth across all regions and exceeded the company’s own expectations on the 2016 sales performance, previously estimated as 3,000 cars.

In its first full year of production, the Sports Series family accounted for 2,031 deliveries, the majority of which came from the recently-introduced McLaren 570GT and 570S models.

The Super Series also continued its success story thanks, in large part, to the McLaren 675LT Coupé and Spider models. Having both sold out in a matter of weeks, the limited production, even more driver-focused and higher-performance derivatives of the Super Series started production

in mid-2015 but continued through 2016. In total, 1,255 Super Series cars were sold in 2016.

Geographically, North America continued to be McLaren Automotive’s single largest market with deliveries of 1,139 cars, a 106% increase over 2015. Europe ended 2016 selling 996 cars in total, an increase of 153% whilst the rapidly-developing market in China sold 228 cars in total. The Asia Pacific region grew by 90% while the newly combined Middle East, Africa and Central and South America region grew by a notable 69%. In addition, the global footprint of the McLaren retailer network continued apace with new dealer facilities opened in Bristol (UK), Boston and Palm Beach (USA), Gold Coast (Australia) and Fukuoka in Japan.

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MOTORING

Kia releases first images of all-new picanto Kia reveals youthful and energetic design of all-new Picanto

vibrant than ever, with a range of bold paint colours designed to make the car stand out.

More assertive stance in a compact A-segment package

Inside, Picanto’s suite of high-tech comfort, convenience and safety features is underscored by a modern and refined new cabin design. At the heart of the cabin is a new ‘floating’ touchscreen infotainment system, making the latest in-car technology available to occupants.

Global debut at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show Kia Motors has today released images of the all-new Picanto, the thirdgeneration of one of Kia’s global bestselling cars.

Created by Kia’s design centres in Namyang, Korea and Frankfurt, Germany, the new Picanto brings youthful and energetic character to the A-segment. The all-new model – revealed in Kia’s sports-inspired ‘GTLine’ specification – conveys a more assertive stance through bolder body lines and subtly sculpted surfaces.

A 15 mm-longer wheelbase (2,385 mm to 2,400 mm) also pushes the wheels further out into each corner for a more confident appearance.

The Picanto’s colour palette is more

Buyers of the all-new Picanto will enjoy smarter packaging efficiency than ever before, with more cabin and cargo space than rivals in the segment. In spite of its extended wheelbase, the Picanto retains its characteristically compact dimensions. With a shorter front overhang and longer rear overhang, the all-new model is the same length (3,595 mm) as the car it replaces.

Kia will reveal the all-new Picanto in public for the first time at the 2017 Geneva International Motor Show in March, and will go on sale in the Spring of 2017.

Infiniti reveal QX50 concept in detroit Detroit – The INFINITI QX50 Concept, which will make its global premiere at the 2017 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, showcases the brand’s vision for a next-generation mid-size premium SUV. An evolution of the 2016 QX Sport Inspiration, the QX50 Concept shows how the design of its conceptual forebear could be adapted for a future production model in the world’s fastest-growing vehicle segment.

INFINITI’s latest concept confidently articulates the artistic influence of the designer through the brand’s ‘Powerful Elegance’ design language.

A ‘cabin-forward’ silhouette combines with taut, muscular lines and flowing surfaces telegraph it as a dynamic and practical SUV. The organic forms of the ‘drivercentric, passenger-minded’ cabin harmonise with the exterior. Blending progressive design with elevated levels of modern craftsmanship, the QX50 Concept’s interior reflects INFINITI’s desire to challenge

conventional approaches to premium interior design.

“With the unveiling of the QX Sport Inspiration at the 2016 Beijing Auto Show, we showed the future of INFINITI QX models. The new QX50 Concept evolves this concept further and shows how INFINITI could develop its future presence in the fastestgrowing vehicle segment globally.”

Roland Krueger, President of INFINITI INFINITI to reveal plans for autonomous driving technologies INFINITI’s QX50 Concept also previews the brand’s roll-out of its autonomous drive support technologies. Central to the strategy for the development of all future autonomous drive support systems is that they should ensure the driver retains ultimate control over their vehicle – in keeping with INFINITI’s focus on driver engagement – while providing a proactive approach to safety.

INFINITI’s autonomous drive

technologies will act as a ‘co-pilot’ for the driver, empowering rather than replacing them, and ‘delegate’ more onerous driving tasks to the car – such as navigating stop-start traffic on the highway or keeping track of the positions of surrounding vehicles.

Since its inception in 1989, INFINITI has brought a number of pioneering driver-assistive technologies to the customer. The company has been responsible for a series of worldfirst semi-autonomous technologies, including Predictive Forward Collision Warning, drive-by-wire Direct

Adaptive Steering and Active Lane Control.

The QX50 Concept’s autonomous drive support systems preview the first production-ready incarnation of a technology package that will be developed further in future production models.

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CROSSWORDS & PUZZLES

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PUZZLES & CROSSWORD

Crossword

Answers

Sudoko

Wordsearch

Anorak Apron Beret Blouse Bolero Bonnet Catsuit Chemise

Cloak Cravat Dhoti Fascinator Gloves Halter Housecoat

Jacket Jerkin Kilt Kimono Mittens Necktie Pinafore

Scarf Shirt Shorts Skirt Smock Sneakers Sweater

Tarboosh Tiara Tights Tuxedo Vest

Brain Teasers

Answers

Peter picked one pepper more than Paul.

Pat picked one pepper more than Pam. Peter and Paul picked 10 more peppers than Pat and Pam. Peter, Paul, Pat and Pam picked 60 peppers.

How many peppers did Peter pick? : Answers: 18 Peppers

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SPORTS

Moeen Ali struck 1,078 Test runs for England in 2016

by MO BHANA

mo@asian-standard.co.uk

Moeen Ali ended 2016 as one of only two players to score four Test centuries during that period alongside Indian skipper Virat Kohli.

The Worcestershire all-rounder was also one of just five players in all Test cricket to top 1,000 runs during the calendar year.

Moeen hit 155 not out against Sri

Lanka at Chester-le-Street, 108 versus Pakistan at The Oval, 117 against India at Rajkot and 146 in the same series at Chennai.

The 29-year-old also struck five half centuries during the year - 61 versus South Africa at Cebturion, 63 and 86 not out off the Pakistan attack at Edgbaston, 68 against Bangladesh in Chittagong and 50 facing India in Mumbai.

He ended the year with 1,078 Test runs at an average of 46.86.

It was a fine effort by Moeen who had brought down the curtain on 2015 as Alastair Cook's opening partner against Pakistan in the UAE, then spent the domestic season at number seven or eight before climbing to the number five and number four positions versus Bangladesh and India.

Moeen's run tally was only topped by a trio of England players in Joe Root (1477), Jonny Bairstow (1470) - two players worked with at Yorkshire by current Worcestershire batting-

second eleven coach Kevin Sharp Cook (1270) and Kohli (1215).

The quartet of England players all played 17 Tests to accumulate their run tallies compared to 12 by Kohli.

But for the next six months Moeen will have to contend with county cricket before England resume Test cricket during the second half of the 2017 against South Africa and the West Indies.

Moeen hit 155 not out against Sri Lanka at Chester-leStreet, 108 versus Pakistan at The Oval, 117 against India at Rajkot and 146 in the same series at Chennai.

The Worcestershire all-rounder Moeen Ali

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SPORTS

Indian Cricket Captain Virat Kohli: Cristiano Ronaldo is my hero

by MO BHANA

mo@asian-standard.co.uk

The captain of the Indian national cricket team for Tests, Kohli says Ronaldo's hard work separates him from Messi, who he believes 'is being given a run for his money'.

Virat Kohli is India's millennial icon. The darling of the cricketing fraternity, the Delhi-born Indian national cricket team player has grasped the imagination of the Indian and worldwide cricket audience, surpassing social strata as well as settling into an Indian era largely defined by his exploits on the field of play.

However, the 28-year-old himself has stated that he derives his work

ethic and drive from another icon of the wider masses - Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo.

has stayed on top for so many years, it's nothing but down to hard work," he elucidated.

"I take a lot of inspiration from Cristiano Ronaldo," began the 2013 Arjuna Award recipient, speaking over a video posted onto the website of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

Though he calls the 2015 international footballer of the year and Barcelona hero Lionel Messi a 'freak', the Indian national Test cricket team's skipper sung hosannas about the recent Ballon D'Or awardee Ronaldo's phenomenal ability derived through hard work.

Nicknamed 'Cheeku', Kohli has established two world records over two formats in the domain of cricket - becoming the fastest cricketer to reach 7000 runs in One Day Internationals (ODIs), whilst setting the benchmark in Twenty20 (T20) cricket becoming the fastest to 1000 runs internationally.

"My training regime is fixed by the trainer. But, the way he (Ronaldo)

"I have heard he (Ronaldo) is the most hardworking footballer in the world and that's why he is where he is. (Lionel) Messi is a freak (genius), but this guy (Ronaldo) is giving him a run for his money because of his hard work," concluded the International Cricket Council's (ICC) ODI player of the year 2012.

Captain of the Indian National team Virat Kohli

First Indian footballer to feature in the UEFA Europa League

by MO BHANA mo@asian-standard.co.uk

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu has become first Indian Player to feature in the UEFA Europa League.

A product of the All Indian Football Federation’s Youth Development Programme and the current captain of the Indian national side, the Goalkeeper started for his Club Norway’s Stabaek FC against Welsh side Quay Nomads FC on June 30, 2016.

The former Kingfisher East Bengal player featured for more than 30 minutes in the clash, despite having to be substituted after because of a wrist injury, but not before making history.

Singh Sandhu could not hide his delight and hopes his appearance will lead to more players of Indian heritage playing in the Europa League: “This is a proud moment for all the Indian Football fans and I hope that my journey can inspires myriads of Indian Footballers, who wish to ply their trade abroad. At the same time the fans need to keep supporting us and back their Football Team,” said Sandhu.

“It was a bit difficult to acclimatise given that the Norwegian League is one of the most competitive leagues in Europe,” he added.

“The higher standard of Football in the Norwegian League makes it all the more challenging. However, the things that you learn daily are

imperative and helps you go a long way,” he had stated.

“I never thought that I would be reaching this point where I would be playing in Europe. It is a dream come true for me and I’m proud to have done what I have done – representing India at that level,” he opined.

“I have grown as a Player in all aspects of my game both mentally and physically and polished all my skills.”

The 24-year old Goalkeeper features sporadically for Stabaek FC in the Norwegian Pro League and had captained India in India’s 4-1 win over Puerto Rico.

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SPORTS

Amir Khan: Kell Brook is a ‘soft’ boxer who dodged fighting rival Errol Spence

by MO BHANA

mo@asian-standard.co.uk

Amir Khan says he is simply "a better fighter" than Kell Brook as he looks to get a British super-bout agreed for 2017.

The Bolton welterweight said he was keen to face his biggest domestic rival Brook at Wembley Stadium in the latter part of next year.

Khan (31-4-KO19) has been out of action since May, when he was brutally knocked out by Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez in a bid to win the WBC middleweight title, but he is back in training camp in the United States and is readying himself for a "tune-up" fight before, he hopes, taking on Brook.

Khan said: "I'm a better fighter, a much more skilful fighter. I've been in with better opposition than Kell.

"I think Golovkin is the only 'A' fighter he has fought. With me, I've been in with the likes of [Marcos] Maidana, Danny Garcia, Zab Judah - I've fought the best names in boxing. I think it's time now where I shut Kell Brook up, and his team, and I settle the score to show who the No 1, and the best fighter in the UK, is.

"I am happy to take that fight. I always said Kell Brook has to prove himself and he has done that by getting in the ring with Golovkin.

"We can sell that fight out, the two of us alone. Let's get the fight done in 2017. It's a good fight for the fans," Khan added.

"He showed he is a tough guy and he's not afraid of fighting anyone, and it's worth now going into the ring with someone like Kell Brook. No one really knew him in America but now he has made a few noises.

"When a fight like that happens it has to be Wembley Stadium. It's a massive fight and one that could sell in big numbers. It could happen maybe summer time or the end of the year.

Both fighters have to be ready.

"We do have our problems and we do want to settle the score, but the right way in the boxing ring. Then we can show who the best 147lb fighter is. I've told my team I want the fight.

"Obviously, with Kell having that surgery and me having the surgery, I want to get back in the ring and have a tune-up fight come April just to get my hand back in action and see how I feel. Maybe the one after that could be Kell Brook."

"That fight makes sense for both of us. Let's make it a big fight now. Kell wants it and I want it. We are in talks and let's make it happen now.

"I'm not going to disrespect Kell. He put up a great fight against Golovkin, who is a tough guy a lot of people are scared of. Kell gave it his best obviously he fell short but at the end of the day he is a great fighter. Boxing is all about the best fighting the best."

Khan has not fought in the United Kingdom since early 2013, with the Alvarez defeat coming in his third Las Vegas bout, but he is keen to fight in front of his home fans again as soon as possible.

As well as Brook, Khan has his sights set on Danny Garcia and Lamont Peterson, two of the fighters to have beaten him.

Khan's second career defeat came at the hands of Peterson in 2011 and his next fight would also end in disappointment when he was stopped

by Garcia as he tried to claim the WBC super-lightweight belt.

On a possible Garcia rematch, Khan said: "That's something I have always wanted. I met Danny in Miami and we had a chat. He said to me 'Look, it's going to happen again some day.

The Bolton Welterweight Amir Khan Don't know when'.

"I'm sure Al Haymon (Khan’s representatives) will get that fight one day for me. It's something I want as I have unfinished business with him. The only reason I can't get that fight just yet is because Danny is fighting Keith Thurman, and that is a unification fight so it overrides any mandatory.

That's another fight out there for me.

There are some big names like him and Peterson.

"I feel as good as when I was 25. I am keeping my body clean, I'm training very hard. I treat my body very well and I might have another three years left in me. Boxing has been great for me and I just want to give the fans the fights they want."

Furthermore, to add more fuel to the fire, during an interview with iFL TV, Khan blatantly accused Brook of dodging fellow welterweight Errol Spence.

Spence was recently announced as the mandatory challenger for Brook’s IBF world title, although Khan suggested a match-up between the two was unlikely.

“I’ve heard rumours that he might give up his title because he doesn’t want to face his mandatory,” Khan explained.

“I find that quite sad. Being a world champion, holding an IBF title and then giving it up because you don’t want to fight your mandatory, that’s just quite soft and quite sad to see in boxing.

“I can’t respect a guy like that.

“If the fight happens between me and him then it happens but I don’t think it will happen early 2017, it will happen towards the end, because of my hand.”

Brook however, has denied he would vacate his IBF title last year, he claimed he would love nothing better than to knock Spence out in the ring in the UK or on Spence’s home ground in the United States.

"I had a meeting with Eddie [Hearn] and told him I am not prepared to give up my title," Kell Brook said last year.

“I want the unification fights but if they aren't there then it will be Spence next for me in a big UK show."