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Harpreet Kaur is the first British Asian Apprentice I winner
t was for british asian business owners, says apprentice winner Harpreet Kaur... ...continued on page 12
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The first hijab-claB Criminal barrister, Sultana Tafadar
Sri lanka going through worst economic crisis
UK ON TRACK TO reach 4,000 ZERO EMISSION BUS PLEDGE
EXCEL LONDON TO HOST 20,000 MUSLIMS FOR A festival
SANDEEP SANDHU, KABADDI LEGEND
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ultana tafadar is The first hijabclad Criminal barrister To be appointed to The queen’s council...
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ri Lanka is experiencing its biggest economic crisis since gaining independence from the United Kingdom in 1948... Page 13
he uk on track to reach 4,000 zero emission Bus pledge with £200 million boost....
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xcel london to host 20,000 slims for a Celebrati on of food, shopping and culture...
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andeep sandhu, a west Bromwich kabaddi legend, shot ten times in an alleged assassination plot...
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How you can help Penny Appeal build £2000 homes in Syria How you can build a home for Syria’s homeless this Ramadan It’s hard to believe that the brutal war inside Syria has been going on for over 11 years now. We have witnessed devastating levels of destruction, with over 400,000 deaths and an ongoing humanitarian crisis that has crippled millions of our innocent brothers and sisters. This effect on the Syrian population of the country has been devastating. There is a not a single family who hasn’t experienced the loss of a loved one, loss of livelihoods, or even the loss of their homes, becoming homeless because of this senseless war. A staggering 5.6 million people have fled Syria to find refuge in nearby countries, some being granted asylum while others living year on year in what were supposed to be makeshift camps along country borders. The cost of this war to innocent lives is unprecedented. It is the biggest humanitarian crisis of our lifetimes and as such, must be met with an unprecedented response of generosity and organisation to help those in desperate need. A Crisis Within Crisis Many of us are aware of the refugee crisis, but did you know millions more are trapped inside Syria? Fleeing the war, an estimated 6.4 million Syrians are displaced internally within Syria itself, creating a crisis of homelessness on a scale never seen before. An estimated 31% of homes inside Syria have been destroyed, leaving families to live in flimsy tents in poorly run settlements with little or no access to clean water for drinking or hygiene. These
tents amplify the heat of the sun during the summer and offer little protection from the blistering cold and rain during the winter months. Poor sanitary conditions combined with frequent flooding often leads to disease, illness and even death. The tents provided an emergency shelter but were never meant to be a permanent solution to the homelessness and humanitarian crisis in Syria. Your Small Change, Making a Big Difference Already Thanks to your continued kindness over the years, Penny Appeal has been providing life-saving food, access to clean water, medical supplies and shelter to thousands of Syrian families with our Emergency Appeal. Together we have helped directly helped 218,88Syrians so far. This emergency aid is vital to provide immediate help to those in need, but it is equally important that we provide longer-term solutions to help provide stability for Syrians in need and rebuild safe and thriving communities. This Ramadan, help lift the lives of Syrians in need from poverty to prosperity. Offer hope during these blessed days, help us Rebuild Syria together. Penny Appeal have committed to offer a permanent shelter to hundreds of Syrians in need. For the first phase of this project, our plan is to build 92 homes within Syria. These homes will have two rooms, along with a kitchen and a washroom. They will provide shelter from the heat during the summer and safety from the cold and rain during the winter. Each home will have electricity and plumbing and will house a Syrian family in need.
Our £2,000 Syrian Homes offer a lifechanging opportunity for families to leave behind a life of danger, poverty, and homelessness. Homes will be structured into a community that will provide a range of services for those who live there. This will include a school for the children to learn together and pursue their hopes and dreams - it is sad to think that many of these children have never been in a classroom before. Your contributions will not just transform their lives but inspire them to go on to make a change in their society too. The Syrian Homes will also have access to their own farming land which will be a vital source of food security and a way for adult residents to make a living and provide for their families.
Build Hope. Build a Home. After living months and sometimes years in squalid camps, these homes offer an essential lifeline for families that have faced the consequences of war for no fault of their own. Innocent Syrian children have been born and raised in these camps, never knowing a life without
pain, hunger, and desperation. You can provide them with a stable and comfortable home, alongside a supportive community that will help bring dignity to the lives of internally displaced Syrian families. This Ramadan, bring a Syrian family into your heart and put a roof over their heads.
You can help today This Ramadan, you can be the answer to the prayers of a Syrian Family in need. You can transform a family and build for them one of our unique £2,000 Syrian homes. Donate today in your name or the name of a loved one. Every contribution, little or large makes a difference. If you can’t contribute the full amount, you can start a direct debit and spread the cost out over 12 months. Remember, our Rebuild Syria project is 100% Zakat applicable, meaning if you donate Zakat to this transformative appeal, 100% of your donation will reach those in need! To donate today, visit pennyappeal.org/appeal/rebuilding-syria or speak to one of our team on 03000 11 11 11.
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Editor’s Note Hello readers and welcome back to the 154th edition of Asian World Newspaper! We hope that you and your loved ones are healthy and safe from the claws of the deadly pandemic, Covid-19. Ramadan 2021 is approaching soon and we understand that some of you may not be able to spend this holy month with your loved ones! To cheer you up, we thought we should share some exciting news stories and something totally different to the usual covid-19 updates. This month we focus on the protests that are happening in India and Bangladesh, turn to our global section to read the latest updates. We are also focusing on keeping a healthy lifestyle, especially as the lockdown has made some of us lazy! Turn to our health section to find out how you can keep a healthy lifestyle during lockdown. If you are somebody that loves watching movies on Amazon prime, then visit our glam section to see some of the new upcoming film releases. Also, don’t forget to look at our wrap edition by the wonderful Al Khair Foundation Charity, where you can see some of
the excellent work done by the charity itself. As you know the travel industry has faced many distributions due to the pandemic, why not read all about this in our travel section. Of course, this month we have provided some information on what to eat during Ramadan to ensure that we are looking after our health while we fast. Whichever section you turn to, there is a story that is suitable for everyone, whether you are into sports, business, or you just like to read the news. So, pick up a copy of the West Midlands’s No.1 South Asian paper and make sure you leave no page unturned. Take a look at the rest of this issue NOW! And remember to stay safe and stay alert. For the latest and most exclusive advertisement offers for 2021, please don’t hesitate to Contact us on 0121 771 4545 or email: sales@asianworldnews. co.uk Have a great read! Editor - Asian World editor@asianworldnews.co.uk Visit us online www.asianworldnews.co.uk
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1 GBP= Country
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DEC
USA
1.21
1.27
Europe
1.15
1.18
Dubai
4.46
4.67
India
82.78
86.42
Pakistan
127.34
133.08
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182.11
188.59
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April 2022
COVENTRY-BASED TRAIN DRIVER DANIELLE CELEBRATES AN IMPRESSIVE 40 YEARS ON THE RAILWAY After kick-starting her career in the railway industry back in 1981, it’s fair to say that West Midlands Trains’ Birmingham New Street train driver, Danielle Morgan, has seen a lot of changes during her 40 years on the tracks. From various job roles, multiple location changes, and station rebuilds, Danielle reveals all on the busy life of a train driver and what four decades on the railway has been like for her. And what’s more, she shares her story and life as a transgender person working in the industry, along with the support she has received from West Midlands Trains, the operator of West Midlands Railway and London Northwestern Railway. It all started at school “When I was younger, I always had an ongoing interest in trains. Me and my friends from school would regularly head down to our local railway station and would spend the afternoon train spotting. I think it was this initial interest that led me to consider applying in the first place. “After finishing school, my mum had told me it was time to start applying for jobs. I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to do, but knew I needed to start earning. As I spent a lot of time at my local station anyway, I thought “why not” and sent in an application. At the time I lived in Norfolk, but my grandparents lived in Coventry, so I went ahead and applied in this area too.” My first role “My first role was very different to the one I am doing now – I started off as a junior railman a month before my 16th birthday. This basically meant I was the messenger in and around the station. Back then nobody had a phone, so it meant I had to grab my bike and cycle around delivering railway updates and messages to those who needed it. “You were only allowed to do this role up to the age of 18, so once I had my 18th birthday, I changed roles and went on to become a carriage cleaner at Kings Lynn station. It was fun to be working alongside different people
and I loved that we always helped each other – given it wasn’t a very big place.” The journey to New Street station “After working as a carriage cleaner for some time I applied to become a senior railman – which saw me shunt trains on both the passenger and freight side. From here, I changed job roles and locations several times starting
as a leading railman at Lichfield, then leading railman general purpose relief at Coventry – which meant I covered platforms, parcels, ticket barriers, and shunting. “After 18 months at Coventry, I then applied for a trainman job at Birmingham New Street in 1989 – this job was essentially a cross between a guard and a second man. Seven years later in 1996
I became a train driver – and I never looked back.” Life as a train driver “I never thought I’d get the job and become a train driver. When I initially applied, I went for my medical and at that point you didn’t know what job you’d got. I seriously never pictured me being given the good news. “Trains started out as my childhood
hobby, and now it is my line of work. I really do love the flexibility it gives me – pre-Covid I was able to travel abroad a lot which has been lovely. For anyone that is considering starting their journey on the railway or maybe even as a train driver, all I can say is just have a go – you never know where you might end up.”
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April 2022
IT WAS FOR BRITISH ASIAN BUSINESS OWNERS, SAYS APPRENTICE WINNER HARPREET KAUR
Photo Credit: PA
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Harpeet Kaur Front page story cont’d... With a £250,000 investment in her dessert business, Harpreet Kaur beat competitor Kathryn Burn, who wanted the quarter million funding for her online luxury family pyjama store. Previously known as Barni’s Desserts, the company has rebranded to Oh So Yum. Ms Kaur runs two outlets – a flagship restaurant in Huddersfield town centre and a kiosk in Leeds White Rose Shopping Centre – with ambitions to rapidly expand in the near future. Claude Littner, a businessman and personal friend of Lord Sugar, interviewed Ms Kaur in the penultimate episode, revealing that she is not the sole proprietor of the dessert shop. Unfazed, Ms Kaur stated that she had
SULTANA TAFADAR IS THE FIRST HIJAB-CLAD CRIMINAL BARRISTER TO BE APPOINTED TO THE QUEEN’S COUNCIL Sultana Tafadar, a hijab-wearing criminal barrister, was named Queen’s Counsel. Her Letters Patent were given to her at the Palace of Westminster, and again with her peers at the Royal Courts of Justice.
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I am pleased to be one of only two hijab-wearing barristers ever appointed Queen’s Counsel, and the first in the Criminal Bar
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Winning The Apprentice as a South Asian woman is one of the biggest things for me. I am thrilled to be the first British Asian woman to reach that investment. I hope it helps the Asian community, especially Asian women. I think it’s vital to use platforms like The Apprentice to promote ourselves.
spoken to her sister, who agreed to let her run the firm solo. Thankfully, Lord Sugar was unconcerned and opted to partner with both men. Ms Kaur was announced as this year’s winner at a viewing party in Huddersfield. “Lord Sugar called me and Kathryn last week to let us know the outcome,” Ms Kaur added. It’s been a difficult week keeping it hidden, but I wanted everyone to find out when they saw the show. “Getting the call was weird. You’re so joyful, appreciative, and blessed. Lord Sugar, a business tycoon, is going to invest in me? I’m thrilled he found potential in me.” Ms Kaur is the first South Asian woman to win the show, which she considers a “big deal” for northern South Asian businesswomen. “There are so many Asian entrepreneurs. Not since Saira Khan, Tim Campbell’s runner-up, has a British Asian reached this stage of The Apprentice. “My sister and I have worked so hard on the business for the past year, I feel like this is going to take it to the next level,” she continued. “Our website was down for 10-15 minutes last night due to hundreds of thousands of visitors. So now anyone may order our delights and have them delivered to any address in the UK.” Aside from winning, the entrepreneur enjoyed the cooking challenge in episode four. During the cooking activities, she stated, she felt instinctively confident. It was fantastic to walk in and meet all the candidates, as I was experiencing something I had only imagined.”
Sultana Tafadar Ms Tafadar is a Queen’s Counsel, an elite legal group. QCs make up fewer than 2% of the legal profession in the UK. Sultana Tafadar said ahead of official ceremony. I am also pleased to join
the ranks of pioneering female QCs. “Yet on such a day, when I reach the peak of my profession in the United Kingdom, I observe with sadness that hijab-wearing women in other nations, such as France, are being denied the same chances.” “Representation is critical, and the Bar can be challenging terrain for those of us from non-traditional backgrounds, but this is changing. The Bar was a lonely place when I arrived 16 years ago, with few black and ethnic minority women and no female hijab-wearing criminal barristers. “We are breaking down these barriers, and I hope many other young ladies will feel empowered to follow in our footsteps, regardless of ethnicity or religion.” Ms Tafadar is a leading expert in human rights, counter-terrorism, national security, and international law. Erin’s cases include high-profile criminal trials that helped set precedents. Ms Tafadar is the first hijab-wearing QC in Britain. She also advises states and organisations on human rights and international law, and huge multinational enterprises on equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Photo by: David Jensen Ms Tafadar is fighting the hijab prohibition in France. She will later this year make crucial comments to the UN on how the French government violates international law in areas such as civil rights, sex discrimination, religious freedom, and women’s economic rights. Ms Tafadar grew up in Luton, England, with Bangladeshi immigrant parents, striving to improve the world. Her hijab-wearing relatives had previously shown that being a visible Muslim lady was no barrier to success. “Growing up in the 80s and 90s, I saw much of unfairness and racism. I was inspired by MLK and Malcolm X. Were you an activist lawyer?” “There have been moments when I have been mistaken for the defendant or the interpreter,” Ms Tafadar says. I’ve had issues because of my gender, race, and religion. “It’s been difficult, but I see my clients from many backgrounds facing similar discrimination. The law is a tool for me to attain big objectives like equality. It reminds me why I chose this career and why I must succeed.”
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April 2022
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AHOY BIRMINGHAM:
GOBOAT MAKES A SPLASH WITH NEW BIRMINGHAM SITE
DUE to popular demand, eco-friendly, electric boat company GoBoat has today announced the opening of a brand-new Birmingham location, their first site outside of the capital, with bookings now open to the public. The new site will open from April 8, where groups of up to eight guests can charter the electric boats and set sail, exploring Birmingham’s famed canal network. Situated alongside the lively canalside development, Brindleyplace, in the Westside district of the city, GoBoat will offer guests the opportunity to see the city from an entirely new perspective. GoBoat is the perfect activity for friends and family alike, or for anyone looking to do something out of the ordinary and explore the midland city from the waters. Now guests can pack up a picnic, grab a bottle of prosecco and take to the open water, experiencing all that the area has to offer. People can choose between one, two, or three-hour trips, enjoying a leisurely cruise, travelling at speeds of 4mph. The experience is both dog and child friendly with life jackets and buoyancy aids provided and no prior boating knowledge necessary, as staff give a full tutorial on land, before guests set sail and steer the boat. This year promises to be a big one for both GoBoat and Birmingham, with the city hosting the Commonwealth Games in the summer, with the brand adding to the ever-growing, thriving urban hub in Brindleyplace, joining an array of bars, cafes and restaurants, as well as local tourist attractions such as the contemporary art gallery, Ikon and the National SEA LIFE Centre. As the weather improves, the brand is expecting a large influx of bookings and following on from the huge
popularity in London last year (over 100k visitors), similar numbers are expected in Birmingham. Grant Sweeney, co-owner of GoBoat said: “Birmingham has such a rich history with its waterways, and when we launched the business in 2017, we always wanted to expand across the UK and Birmingham has always been at the top of our list as a second home. “And with the city linked so closely to its historic waterways, we couldn’t be more excited to launch in such a vibrant and thriving city. We can’t wait to bring Brummies’ back onto the water, but importantly – in a sustainable and enjoyable way. “Brindleyplace is the perfect location for us, it’s a vibrant hub within the city and we’re looking forward to be-
coming part of their growing family. We’re all very excited to see locals on the water, enjoying their amazing city from a new and exciting perspective.” Matt Long, Head of Tenant Engagement and Placemaking at Brindleyplace said: “GoBoat is an established provider working in the boating leisure market, with a proven track record across a number of sites in London, and we’re tremendously excited to welcome them here to Brindleyplace and the heart of Britain’s canal network. “With a variety of sites and points of interest to see from Brindleyplace, we’re sure that many of the millions of visitors to Brindleyplace every year will enjoy using this new amenity and way to see more of Birmingham.”
LEADING NATIONAL MUSLIM CHARITY SEEKS LOCAL PARTNERS TO TACKLE SOARING POVERTY LEVELS
The cost-of-living crisis has led to a huge growth in demand from Muslims in need across the UK. Applications to the National Zakat Foundation’s Hardship Fund, for essentials like food and clothes, has soared by more than 90% year on year. With 50% of UK Muslims already in poverty, the increasing price of basic food, energy and housing is taking its toll. To help reach more people in need NZF is seeking partners on the ground across the country to help distribute Zakat to more people and build stronger communities. To this end, a pilot project is now underway in Bradford, whereby people in need can access support in their community. Muslims suffering from immediate financial hardship can come to their local community organisation and request help. The partner completes a short assessment of their situation and (where appropriate) approves a Zakat grant. Sohail Hanif, CEO of NZF said “With so many people in need we have to ensure we reach out and offer support any way we can. Adding a face-to-face community element to the way we work will allow us to help our communities more than ever”. With the support of Zakat givers in the UK, NZF has helped over 35,000 Muslims in the last decade, through a team of Grants Officers who work centrally to
serve people across the UK. The advantage of local distribution is that it builds local ties in a faith community, thereby strengthening the belonging people in that community feel to each other and to their faith. Furthermore, it allows and encourages people to access the wider support services of that community. So, for example, coming to a mosque to receive money allows a person to also discover the wider services of the mosque, and hopefully start a faith-enriching journey. Finally, local distribution allows for a more dignified assessment of someone’s Zakat eligibility than the detailed review process that applicants experience when applying for help through online services. Working alongside grassroots organisations who have a natural reach within their communities, NZF seeks to provide partners access to a supplementary service which enables them to offer financial help to Muslims quickly and with dignity. The project hopes to expand to other grassroots organisations who have a strong track record of delivering services for their local Muslim communities. This includes mosques, madrasahs, community centres and food banks who have good reach into their communities.
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April 2022
DESIGN STUDENTS CREATE COSTUMES FOR BIRMINGHAM 2022 FESTIVAL OPENING
Talented Birmingham City University design students have created costumes for the opening event of the Birmingham 2022 Festival as part of the Commonwealth Games. Alongside London-based Costume Designer Sophie Donaldson, second and third-year Costume Design and Practice students at BCU have produced 22 aerial costumes and 300 costumes for the ‘Wondrous Stories’ production. Created by Leamington-based dance company Motionhouse, Wondrous Stories premiered last night (17 March) and continues until 20 March in Birmingham City Centre’s Centenary Square with two performances each evening at 6.30pm and 8.30pm. The production features 322 costumes, 22 aerialists, one crane, one globe, two zip wires, a giant book and a strong community cast of more than 250 people, including 16 dance groups Louise Chapman, Birmingham City University’s Senior Lecturer in Costume Design and Practice, said: “The scale of this production is larger than anything we have ever delivered across the costume programme, and I am so proud of what we have achieved.” Final-year BCU student Jack Slater, who has been involved in the project, said: “It’s been a huge honour. The director, Kevin Finnan MBE, pitched his ideas, but he wanted us to add our own creativity. We sat down as a team and everyone had different ideas, but we wanted to make all the different costumes look cohesive. “I wanted to do characters that were based on Birmingham. I’m Brummie born and bred, so I knew I had to represent Birmingham. I really wanted to build in elements of graffiti art. I’ve always been sort of mesmerized by it, it’s so vibrant and unusual. “I’m so proud to be doing something for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. At the start of this project, I was nervous as I’d never done such a big production, but as the module progressed, I’ve felt more and more honoured and
proud to be part of it. This is for Birmingham.” Second-year BCU student Teresa Mayes added: “It’s been such a surprise and so invaluable to work on this project. It’s provided such insight into working in the industry and has given me so many skills. It’s amazing to think our costumes could be seen by up to hundreds of thousands of people. I’m so proud and immensely excited. I never thought something I did
would go worldwide. “I’ve been on site every day this week. I wanted to get every experience I could. I’ve been involved in dressing and doing the laundry, getting the costumes ready – I’ve loved it.” Kevin Finnan, Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Motionhouse, and creator and director of Wondrous Stories, said: “I’m over the moon with the costumes. The students have responded to the brief
brilliantly and the result is exceptional.” Wondrous Stories collected stories from West Midland residents to form a snapshot of life in the region. People from across the Midlands were able to submit their personal stories to the Wondrous Stories postbox at the Library of Birmingham. Wondrous Stories features Motionhouse’s internationally-renowned professional dance-circus company alongside a mass cast of hundreds from Critical Mass
dance and movement project, inclusive wheelchair dance group Freewheelin, Motionhouse Youth, Motionhouse community class participants, Timmins Academy and the Centre of Advanced Training programme run by DanceXchange and Sampad. Audiences can expect large-scale immersive action and plenty of thrills as stories, a giant book and characters tumble out of the night sky.
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April 2022
TOGETHER FOR RAMADAN
Ramadan is going to be particularly special this year, as people around the country prepare to celebrate, breaking their fasts together with the whole family for the first time since 2019. Asda is excited to help families prepare to make every Sehri and Iftar meal a success on this very special occasion with their delicious and affordable range of products, and this year they have a bigger range of Ramadan offerings available in stores and online. To celebrate the exciting expansion of the Asda World Food range and the inclusion of a seasonal Ramadan aisle in over 102 stores, Asda hosted a special event to showcase its offerings. Hosted at the Bellavita Cafe, the event space
was elegantly decorated with flowing fabrics, delicate lights, and coloured Arabic lamps, for a stylish and exclusive evening. The event was hosted by Salma, the talented food influencer and content creator behind @salmasrecipes, who collaborated with Asda to create a selection of bespoke recipes that featured the star products of Asda’s Ramadan range. A guest list of influencers, media personalities and food bloggers from the culinary world were in attendance to sample Salma’s menu and celebrate the upcoming Ramadan with Asda. Guests were welcomed with a refreshing handmade triple berry mocktail before being wowed by Salma’s Bang-
ladeshi inspired Iftar menu. Serving up an exciting mouthful of flavours with her quick and delicious Samosa Chaat and delicately spiced Paneer Tikka bites. She followed them up with a taste of her fluffy Chana Pilau and a spoonful of her delicious Palak Aloo recipe, as well as her tempting Deshi Tiger Prawns, made using ASDA Extra Special Easy-Peel Vietnamese Tiger Prawns. The star of the show was a one-pot Achari Chicken packed with fragrant spices, based on one of her mother’s recipes, featuring Laila Ginger and Garlic Pastes and Ashoka’s mixed pickle. For dessert, Salma served up a rich and creamy Phirni studded with roasted pistachios. Guests were impressed by the versatility
of Asda’s Ramadan range and enjoyed sampling Salma’s bold and inventive flavours. “I was delighted to be invited by Asda to host this event and create recipes for them”, said Salma. I’m pleased to see everyone enjoying the Bangladeshi flavours, especially the Deshi Prawn Bhuna that’s based on my mother’s recipe, to which I gave my own twist by adding KTC chopped tomatoes for a sweet and tangy taste. Being able to find the right
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ingredients for that recipe, alongside everything else under one roof at Asda really impressed me. Their range made it easy for me to create this rich and varied menu.” The event’s warm and welcoming atmosphere and delicious tasting menu came together to create a joyful Ramadan celebration that demonstrated Asda’s commitment to serving their customers and their needs with an expansive and versatile Ramadan range all under one roof.
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April 2022
Ramadhan 2022
Dua for breaking the Fast
Dua for Intention to keep Fast
Oh Allah! I fasted for You and I believe in You, and I put my trust in You, and I break my fast with Your sustenance.
I intend to keep Fast for tomorrow in the month of Ramadhan
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GLOBAL 12-14
BUSINESS 15-16
GLAM 17-19
WEDDINGS 20-21
HEALTH 22-23
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MOTORING 28
SPORTS 29
April 2022
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PRICE HIKES FOR FUEL IN SRI LANKA AS THE COUNTRY’S ECONOMY SPUTTERS
One of Sri Lanka’s largest fuel suppliers has raised the price of gasoline by about 20%, the second such increase in as many weeks, as the country struggles to buy oil because of a lack of US dollars in circulation. A fuel retailer that accounts for one-third of the market announced on Saturday that it has hiked the price of gasoline to 303 rupees (a little more than $1) per litre, an increase from 254 rupees. A 25% rise in the price of gasoline was implemented by the cor-
poration two weeks ago. According to the firm, the rupee’s 30 percent depreciation versus the US dollar and other major currencies this month was a contributing factor to the surge. Ceylon Petroleum Corporation, which is owned by the government, did not immediately revise its prices, but its representatives, who sought to remain unnamed, told that the company was almost certain to follow Lanka IOC. Sri Lanka is experiencing its biggest economic crisis since gaining independence from the
SHORTAGE OF NEWSPRINT IN SRI LANKAN NEWSPAPERS AS THE ECONOMIC CRISIS WORSENS
Sri Lanka is experiencing its biggest economic crisis since gaining independence from the United Kingdom in 1948.
United Kingdom in 1948. The island’s foreign reserves have plummeted to rock-bottom levels, with commercial banks unable to secure dollars in order to fund the importation of food, gasoline, and medications. A total of four individuals have died while standing in long lines
Eid Special Advertising offers from £25 Two prominent Sri Lankan newspapers are stopping print editions due to a paucity of paper, their owner stated. The 22 million-strong South Asian nation is in the midst of its biggest economic crisis since gaining independence from Britain in 1948. Upali Newspapers, a privately held company, said on Friday that their English-language daily, The Island, as well as its sister Sinhalese counterpart, Divaina, will only be published online “due to the current newsprint crisis.” Other major national dailies have also cut the number of pages they publish as a result of cost increases of more than a third in the past five months, as well as issues obtaining supplies from outside. School assessments for over three million of Sri Lanka’s 4.5 million students were postponed indefinitely last week after the government was unable to procure enough paper and ink supplies to meet demand. The dollar scarcity has led to energy shortages affecting all sec-
tors and soaring costs, with inflation reaching 17.5% in February, a monthly high of five. At least four individuals have died in the last week while queuing for gas. In the absence of dollars, a cargo of diesel and aviation fuel was held up at the Colombo port for nearly two weeks. Earlier this month, the administration indicated it will seek IMF assistance to restructure its foreign debt. The country’s foreign reserves have fallen to $2.3 billion from $7.5 billion when the current government took office in November 2019. The island is also trying to get more loans from India, China, and other countries to help it get out of its currency trouble. Sri Lanka was in a deep economic slump when the pandemic hit. It cut down on foreign worker remittances and crippled the lucrative tourism industry, which was a big source of money for the economy.
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to buy petrol in the last week, according to reports. Sri Lanka was in the midst of a severe economic crisis when the COVID-19 pandemic struck, cutting remittances from foreign workers and damaging the lucrative tourism industry, which is a major source of foreign currency for the country.
In order to conserve foreign cash, the government issued a sweeping import embargo in March 2020. Due to shortages, food prices rose 25% last month, pushing overall inflation to 17.5%, a new monthly high.Sri Lanka is also experiencing five-hour rolling blackouts
due to oil shortages. Since late last year, three international rating agencies have downgraded the island’s government debt of $51 billion. Sri Lanka stated earlier this month that it will seek an IMF bailout, with talks beginning next month in Washington.
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April 2022
BANNED PAKISTANI FILM, JAVED IQBAL: THE UNTOLD STORY OF A SERIAL KILLER, TO WORLD PREMIERE AS OPENING FILM OF UK ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL 2022
Banned, Pakistani film, Javed Iqbal: The Untold Story Of A Serial Killer, will receive its World Premiere as the Opening Gala at the 24th, UK Asian Film Festival – the world’s longest running South Asian film festival outside India. The ‘Dare To Dream’ theme of this year’s festival commemorates 75 years of India and Pakistan’s Independence. The curation will acknowledge personal and societal freedoms as well as address topical issues such as climate change and human resilience in the face of oppression through its programme of film screenings, premieres, live events and industry panel discussions. UK Asian Film Festival is powered by Sunrise Radio; Official Online Media Partner is DESIblitz; and TV Partner for UKAFF Short Film Competition is Shorts TV. UK Asian Film Festival 2022, presented by Tongues on Fire, will run from 4th – 15th May in venues across London, Birmingham, Leicester, Coventry, Warwick, Bradford, Stockton and Glasgow; and online via BFI Player and Modern Films. UKAFF is supported by the BFI awarding funds from the National Lottery and Arts Council England using funds from the National Lottery and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). #HereforCulture. Making a bold statement for freedom of artistic expression against censorship, the Opening Film will be the World Premiere of Javed Iqbal: The Untold Story
Of A Serial Killer (Pakistan, 2022, Dir: Abu Aleeha, Language: Urdu and Punjabi with English subtitles) on Wednesday 4th May at BFI Southbank. Currently banned in Pakistan, the film depicts the untold story of Lahore’s notorious serial killer, Javed Iqbal, who confessed to police and media that he had abducted, sexually abused and murdered more than 100 boys in Lahore between 1998 and 1999. He was arrested and sentenced to death. But just two years into his sentence, he allegedly committed suicide in his prison cell. The authorities suspected his horrific crimes were part of a wider paedophile ring in operation. Inspired by writer and director Abu Aleeha’s own novel, ‘Kukri’, the film provides a detailed analysis of Iqbal’s statements and his time in police remand. Without sensationalising the subject matter, the film delves into the psyche and character of Iqbal, at the same time depicting the seriousness and sensitivity of Lahore police during the investigation. A High Court case to get the film released is currently ongoing in Pakistan since the Punjab Government and the Central Bureau of Film Censors (CBFC) issued an order to halt its release earlier this year, despite initial censor board approval. Tragically, the issue of child sexual abuse is still a taboo subject in Pakistan, more so when men and young boys are involved. Director, Abu Aleeha; producer, Javed Ahmed Kakepoto; and actors Yasir Hussain and
Ayesha Omar will introduce the film. In keeping with the festival’s historically feminist focus, the Closing Film will be the UK Premiere of Gangnam Girls (Bhutan, 2021, Dir: Charmi Nemchand Chheda, Language: Dzongkha with English subtitles) on Sunday 15th May at BFI Southbank. The film charts four, childhood friends who, though extremely different, grow up supporting each other’s dreams. While each undergoes personal challenges, their friendship helps them navigate a passage through their early years. A decade after a fallout that takes them on their separate ways,
the childhood friends reconnect over the course of a weekend. Reunited, the group must now confront their past differences. The film will be introduced by director, Charmi Nemchand Chheda, and producer, Nyema Zam. UK Asian Film Festival Founder and Director, Dr Pushpinder Chowdhry MBE says, “We are looking forward to opening UKAFF 2022 with Javed Iqbal, a film that digs deep into the psyche of a serial killer and that highlights the importance of mental well-being. Abu Aleeha’s directorial tells a compelling, real-life horror story of a psychopath captured by a
woman police officer, sensitively played by Ayesha Omar. The importance of this film cannot be underestimated. It brings to light an issue – the abuse and mass murder of young boys – that is of the utmost importance and yet rarely discussed. It has always been far too convenient for South Asian societies to brush such issues under the carpet but only by creating safe spaces in which to confront these issues and their root causes can we begin to create the meaningful social change we need. In that way we all owe a debt of gratitude to the creators of this film.” UK Asian Film Festival Creative Director, Samir Bhamra says, “The festival’s theme this year, Dare to Dream, speaks to the challenges of our time. In this era of reckoning, we ask are people free to dream? 75 years after Indian and Pakistani Independence, telling taboo stories still comes at a price. Our opening film, Javed Iqbal: The Untold Story of a Serial Killer, was banned in Pakistan. Censorship remains a barrier that we support brave filmmakers to overcome. Our festival facilitates the conversations that we need, but are prohibited from having. Year on year, we fight to enable storytellers to dream freely. It is their intense, powerful and thought provoking films that allow our audience to see the world through new eyes and imagine a future where dreaming is no longer a risk.”
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April 2022
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April 2022
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UK ON TRACK TO REACH 4,000 ZERO EMISSION BUS PLEDGE WITH £200 MILLION BOOST Millions of people across the country will be able to make greener, cleaner journeys as almost 1,000 green buses are rolled out with the backing of nearly £200 million in government funding. Twelve areas in England, from Greater Manchester to Portsmouth, will receive grants from the multimillion-pound package to deliver electric or hydrogen powered buses, as well as charging or fuelling infrastructure, to their region. The funding comes from the Zero Emission Buses Regional Area (ZEBRA) scheme, which was launched last year to allow local transport authorities to bid for funding to purchase zero emission buses. £198.3 million of funding will provide 943 buses. It builds on almost: • £71 million announced last year to support up to 335 new zero emission buses in 5 areas • a further £50 million funding for the UK’s first All Electric Bus City, Coventry, supporting up to 300 buses • 100 buses funded by previous funding schemes The first orders have already been placed. Hundreds more zero emission buses have been funded in London, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. It means the government remains on track to deliver its commitment to fund a total of 4,000 zero-emission buses across the country – which the Prime Minister promised in 2020 to “drive forward the UK’s progress on its net zero ambitions”
and to “build and rebuild those vital connections to every part of the UK”. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: I will level up and clean up our transport network. That’s why I’ve announced hundreds of millions of pounds to roll out zero emission buses nationwide. Not only will this improve the experience of passengers, but it will help support our mission to fund 4,000 of these cleaner buses, reach net zero emissions by 2050 and build back greener. This announcement is part of our National Bus Strategy, which will introduce lower fares, helping drive down the cost of public transport even further for passengers. The move is expected to remove over 57,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year from the country’s air, as well as 22 tonnes of nitrogen oxides on average each year, as government continues to go further and faster to achieve net zero, clean up the transport network and build back greener. It is also part of the government’s wider £3 billion National Bus Strategy to significantly improve bus services, with new priority lanes, lower and simpler fares, more integrated ticketing and higher frequencies. Jobs in the bus manufacturing industry – based largely in Scotland, Northern
lions of people to get around in a way that is kinder to our environment. The areas whose business cases were approved and will be receiving funding are: • • • • • • • • • • • • Ireland and northern England – will be supported as a result of the move. Zeroemission buses are also cheaper to run, improving the economics for bus operators. Transport Minister Baroness Vere said: We recognise the scale of the challenge the world faces in reaching net zero. That’s why reducing emissions and creating green jobs lies at the heart of our transport agenda. Today’s multimillion-pound investment is an enormous step towards a cleaner future, helping ensure transport is fit for generations to come and allowing mil-
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Martin Griffiths, Stagecoach Chief Executive, said: We welcome this announcement, which will complement the significant investment and initiatives by operators as we work together to transition to a zero emission bus fleet and help the country achieve its net zero ambitions. Stagecoach has already started its journey towards our target of a fully zero emission UK bus fleet by 2035, and there is also a major opportunity to deliver cleaner air by people switching to more sustainable public transport, cycling and walking. Britain’s buses have an exciting future
ahead, helping decarbonise the country, as well as driving economic recovery and levelling up our communities. Government funding of Transport for London has supported the introduction of 300 zero emission in London. Around 600 zero emission buses have been funded in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland as a result of the block grant to the devolved administrations. The government will also launch a public consultation seeking views on setting a specific date between 2025 and 2032 for ending the sale of new non-zero emission (at the tailpipe) buses. This would mean that, from 2032 at the very latest, the sale of all new buses, powered either in part, or totally, by an internal combustion engine would cease to be allowed. Any new buses sold from that date would need to be fully zero-emission at the tail pipe and the end of sales would apply across the whole of the UK. Such a move would bolster the market for zero-emission buses, making them the default choice for operators to transition sooner. Calls for evidence will also be launched today on ending the sale of new nonzero emission coaches and minibuses, allowing evidence to be gathered on the challenges to moving to a zero-emission fleet, and what an appropriate end of sales date might be.
LOCAL 4-11
GLOBAL 12-14
BUSINESS 15-16
GLAM 17-19
WEDDINGS 20-21
HEALTH 22-23
FOOD 24-25
TECH 26
TRAVEL 27
MOTORING 28
SPORTS 29
April 2022
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RISE IN ONLINE SHOPPING HIGHLIGHTS THE NEED FOR A FULLY CONNECTED DELIVERY FLEET
AW Facts Did you know? Starbucks’ round tables were created specifically so customers would feel less alone
Imagine being able to deliver a 15% improvement in fuel economy, a 40% reduction in accidents, and 45% less downtime across an entire fleet. One platform promising such transformative results is Lightfoot, a telematics provider that describes their approach as empowering drivers to manage themselves by incentivising good driving. Having gamified the experience through an app, careful and efficient drivers are rewarded with the chance to win prizes while those who are yet to reach the same standard are coached in real time. With Cobalt Cube, the groundwork has been laid for integrating systems such as this with the vehicle’s built-in display where it could also join the company’s logistics application, potentially eliminating the need for the driver to use a smartphone at all. By working with VNC Automotive, Co-
balt Cube’s software configuration can be customised to suit almost any require-
ment, but this flexibility also simplifies the integration for the manufacturer.
Each vehicle can be assembled to the same standardised specification, leaving the customer or their service integrator to upload the software required for that particular unit’s role, whether that’s a lastmile courier, utility engineer, or chilled supermarket delivery. “We’ve worked with OEMs, fleets and integrators around the world for many years, so we already have the expertise and experience required to link these systems together to ensure they perform seamlessly and flawlessly,” continued Galek. “Now that LCVs’ connectivity has caught up with passenger cars, there’s an opportunity to take it to the next level and use that technology to make our hard-working van drivers’ lives easier and safer. After the support they’ve shown us, they certainly deserve it.”
SCAMMERS TARGETING SELF ASSESSMENT CUSTOMERS, HMRC WARNS HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is warning Self Assessment customers to be on their guard following the Self Assessment deadline after more than 570,000 scams were reported to HMRC in the last year. At this time of year, Self Assessment customers are at increased risk of falling victim to scams, even if they don’t mention Self Assessment. They can be taken in by scam texts, emails or calls either offering a ‘refund’ or demanding unpaid tax, thinking that they are genuine HMRC communications referring to their Self Assessment return. In the 12 months to January 2022, nearly 220,000 scams reported to HMRC offered bogus tax rebates. Criminals target unsuspecting Self Assessment customers to try and steal money or personal information. They use phone calls, texts and emails to try and dupe citizens, and often mimic government messages to make them appear authentic. In January 2022, phone scams rose to 3,995 compared to 425 reported in April 2020. Customers can report suspicious phone calls using a form on GOV.UK. Customers can also forward suspicious emails claiming to be from HMRC to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk and texts to 60599. HMRC gave customers an extra month to submit a completed tax return and if customers filed by 28 February 2022, they would avoid a late filing penalty. More than 11.3 million customers filed their Self Assessment tax return by 28 February, with more than one million of those taking advantage of the extra time by filing in February. Customers have until 1 April to pay their outstanding tax bill or set up a Time to Pay arrangement to avoid receiving a late payment penalty. Interest has been applied to all outstanding balances since 1 February. Customers can now make Self Assessment payments quickly and securely through the HMRC app. Customers choosing to make secure Self Assess-
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Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, said: If someone contacts you saying they’re from HMRC, wanting you to transfer money or give personal information, be on your guard.
ment payments through the HMRC app can either connect to their bank to make their payments or pay by Direct Debit, personal debit card or corporate/commercial credit/debit card. A full list of the payment methods customers can use to pay their Self Assessment tax bill is available on GOV. UK. HMRC has a dedicated team working on cyber and phone crimes. They use innovative technologies to prevent misleading and malicious communications from ever reaching the customer. Since 2017, these technical controls have prevented 500 million emails from reaching HMRC’s customers. More recently, new controls have prevented 90% of the most convincing SMS messages from reaching the public and controls have been applied to prevent spoofing of most HMRC helpline numbers. HMRC is also reminding Self Assessment customers to double check websites and online forms before using them to complete their 2020 to 2021 tax return. People can be taken in by misleading websites designed to make them pay for help in submitting tax returns or charging to connect them to HMRC phone lines. Customers who are in any doubt about whether a website is genuine should visit GOV.UK
Never let yourself be rushed, and if you’re in any doubt then for more information about Self Ascheck our ‘HMRC scams’ sessment and use the free signposted advice on GOV.UK. tax return forms.
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Now, more than ever, Britain is a nation of internet shoppers. Even before the pandemic struck, the percentage of retail sales that originated online was on an inexorable upward trajectory, but as the first national lockdown took hold, internet sales jumped[i] from 19.1% to 32.8%, peaking last January at 37.7% with the third lockdown. But as we camped in our living rooms, alt-tabbing back to Amazon after each Teams call to pluck a juicy Lightning Deal from the ever-ripening homepage, someone had to brave the outside world to deliver it all. And that fell to the humble van driver. As a result, van fleets are more important to our economy than ever before and, as befits their status as a mobile workplace, manufacturers have responded by making them more comfortable – car-like, even. Now, all but the most utilitarian Ford Transit rolls off the line replete with a centrallymounted touchscreen, and that creates an opportunity to streamline drivers’ workflows that so far has remained untapped. VNC Automotive’s Cobalt Cube® enables the secure integration of multiple devices with a vehicle’s existing displays and controls, removing the need for bulky aftermarket hardware and screens. That means third-party systems – common throughout the logistics industry – can now be accessed through the vehicle’s built-in display, significantly lowering the installation overhead, making them more intuitive to operate and safer in the event of an accident. Furthermore, with no unsightly holes in the dashboard, the vehicle retains a higher residual value when it comes to the end of its fleet life. iOS and Android smartphone-based apps can be integrated, too, making it easier to access information such as consignment notes or next drop location, all with the minimum of distraction for the driver. “Many fleets have developed smartphone apps to act as the main point of interaction for their drivers,” said Peter Galek, Product Engineering Director, VNC Automotive. “That isn’t necessarily the best device for many day-today functions; the small screen creates limitations, and they’re often dropped, damaged or lost. Using Cobalt Cube, however, makes it possible to capitalise on the ergonomically-optimised display that’s already fitted to the vehicle.” The system is well-proven, having been integrated into police force and first responder vehicles around the globe, while the company’s connectivity technology can be found in more than 35 million vehicles worldwide. By embedding Cobalt Cube, vehicle manufacturers can embrace the boom in touchscreens in LCVs and add significant value for their fleet customers.
Further information:
The Self Assessment deadline for 2020 to 2021 tax returns was 31 January 2022. The free HMRC app is available on either the App Store for iOS or the Google Play Store for Android. Customers will need their Government Gateway user ID and password to sign into their account for the first time. In the last 12 months (to January 2022) HMRC has: »» responded to 572,423 referrals of suspicious contact from the public. More than 219,740 of these offered bogus tax rebates »» worked with the telecoms industry and Ofcom to remove more than 920 phone numbers being used to commit HMRC-related phone scams »» responded to 267,671 reports of phone scams in total. In April 2020 HMRC received reports of only 425 phone scams. In January 2022 this had risen to 3,995 »» reported more than 6,160 malicious web pages for takedown »» detected 463 COVID-19-related financial scams since March 2020, most by text message »» asked Internet Service Providers to take down 443 COVID-19-related scam web pages
ABHAY SEASON 3 TRAILER OUT NOW – KUNAL KEMMU RETURNS AS ABHAY PRATAP SINGH IN ZEE5 GLOBAL’S FLAGSHIP FRANCHISE
ZEE5 Global, the largest streaming platform for South Asian Content, released the trailer of Abhay 3 and from the looks of it, fans can expect this season to be the boldest, darkest and the wildest season yet. After two successful and critically acclaimed seasons, Abhay franchise has created its own niche in the thriller genre and now, with the premiere date set as 8th April, the wait is over for Season 3. Directed by Ken Ghosh and produced by Zee Studios, Abhay S3 stars Kunal Kemmu, Asha Negi and Nidhi Singh in returning roles and Vijay Raaz, Rahul Dev, Vidya Malvade, Tanuj Virwani and Divya Agarwal as the new cast members. Kunal Kemmu returns as the determined cop, Abhay Pratap Singh who faces many new unknown threats while trying to balance his professional and personal life. Asha Negi returns as Sonam and Nidhi Singh as Khushboo, Abhay’s straight arrow cop colleague. This season sees the entry of Dr. Anant Sinha (played by Vijay Raaz), the head psychiatrist of the city asylum who has a mysterious alter ego and a cult following of devoted disciples (including Vidya Malvade’s character, Nidhi). There is also Rahul Dev’s character, Avatar who is a fearless fighter, sharpshooter, and a threat to Abhay. And lastly, there is the addition of Divya Agarwal and Tanuj Virwani who play social media influencers, Harleen and Kabir but with a dark side. This season is unlike any other as Abhay
faces a new breed of evil; a dark force capable of manipulating anyone in the name of a twisted ideological belief. Will Abhay win this battle with death? Wait to find out! Ken Ghosh said, “After 2 successful seasons, it was challenging to come up with tactics to beat the success of earlier seasons, but challenges always push you to strive harder. Now, after completing the shoot and edit of S3, I am confident that viewers are in for another thrilling ride in S3 and that too, with an amazing cast to keep them on the edge of the seat”. Kunal Kemmu said, “The stakes are higher in Abhay season 3 as the crimes get darker and more sinister and Abhay is at a crossroad as his professional and personal life get intertwined. This season charters into new territory both for the audiences and Abhay. Add to that, the exciting new cast members. I’m nervous and excited to present this season to the fans of the show and to the new audience that it finds”. Vijay Raaz said, “Abhay S3 is dark, twisted and unlike anything viewers have seen before. Ken has created a gripping alternate universe and all of us are glad to be a part of it. Abhay has taken the genre of crime thrillers up a notch, and it will be exciting to see what is brewing in this season”. Watch Abhay season 3 exclusively on ZEE5 Global in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu from 8th April 2022
BOLLYWOOD STARS TAKE ON THE ATTACK CHALLENGE
ohn Abraham’s latest film, Attack: Part 1, is all set to hit the theatres. The two trailers of the movie have been well received by the audience and the star cast is now leaving no stones unturned to promote their upcoming film. The leading ladies, Rakul Preet Singh and Jaqueline Fernandes, are definitely pulling out on all the stops.
Rakul took to Instagram to kick a challenge called the #AttackChallenge where the challenge is to nominate other stars to hit the gym and show their training. They even posted videos of themselves working hard at the gym and doing high-intensity workouts. Rakul Preet kicked off the challenge by posting a video in which she did sev-
eral strength-training routines. She then nominated Jacqueline and Tiger Shroff to participate in the Attack Challenge. After which, both the actors posted individual clips on their respective pages. Attack: Part 1 is directed by Lakshya Raj Anand and presented by PEN Movies, released on 1st April 2022
LA LA LA – JOHN ABRAHAM IS A MAN ON A MISSION!
Excitement and anticipation is building for the release of John Abraham’s latest film Attack: Part 1 and it seems the makers are pulling out all the stops with the newest track titled La La La.
The exhilarating number, which features vocals by Sachdev and Bjorn Surrao who also penned the lyrics, immediately gets your heart pumping with its strong electronic beats. The visuals matche the
beat too, presenting John as a man on a mission. We see montages of his various missions as a super-soldier, where he goes up against multiple gun-wielding terrorists.
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April 2022
EXCEL LONDON TO HOST 20,000 MUSLIMS FOR A CELEBRATION OF FOOD, SHOPPING AND CULTURE London Muslim Shopping Festival presented by Wahed is glad to announce the dates for the much-anticipated event. The culture-rich festival will commence on the 26th and will last till 27th March 2022. To be held at Excel London, this will be UK’s largest Muslim shopping showcase with new and exciting elements. The UK’s largest Muslim festival is back for its sixth edition, celebrating the rich culture of the halal industry. More than 250 stalls and exhibitors are expected, with plenty of food, fashion and shopping opportunities for all. The London Muslim Shopping Festival will once again host the popular cookery theatre, sponsored by Tariq Halal, and the Food court, in association with London Halal Food Festival, will be serving up tasty dishes. Over the span of two days, visitors can enjoy the Halal market that is growing fast over the UK. The event will become a platform for the Halal community to showcase its contribution and promote this market that is now readily available in many sectors. The Festival will also host a wellness stage where multiple industry experts will be conducting talks on their subject matter, as well as a fun kid’s area and VIP zone. The highlight for 2022 will be the Modanisa London Fashion Week, Cohosted by London Muslim Shopping Festival. Showcasing the latest trends
from the industry’s finest designers, the catwalk will be held in a separate hall, and additional tickets will be required. This is an unmissable event for those who can’t resist a wardrobe update for Eid. For six years now, the event has generated international attention from both consumers and traders and is forecasted to grow rapidly. “With support from valued sponsors and partners, the purpose of the event is further highlighted to the target audience.
This event is a must for any brand wanting to explore this emerging consumer market”, says a spokesperson for London Muslim Shopping Festival. The London Muslim Shopping Festival is the leading platform to offer face-toface networking opportunities, increase awareness, add value to new start-ups, and validate already thriving businesses. Media partners include British Muslim Magazine – Britain’s leading Muslim Lifestyle Magazine.
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EXPLORE A WORLD OF FREE DESI ENTERTAINMENT DistroTV, launched in 2018 is one of the largest independent, ad-supported streaming platforms in the world available on all devices, on the web and connected TV platforms like Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Google TV, Apple TV, Samsung TV, LG TV, Sony TV. A niche channel bundle, DistroTV Desi was launched in 2021 to cater to the South Asian diaspora in the West who can now
watch authentic entertainment from their home countries for free on any platform or device. DistroTV Desi currently offers more than 25 South Asian channels including household brands like Times Now, Republic TV, Zoom, ABP News with plans to launch many more exciting channels in the coming months. Audiences can now watch exclusive live Southeast Asian content channels from news, music, entertainment genres with thousands of hours of streaming content in original languages providing a wide-ranging premium selection of news, variety shows, music and movies for Hindi, Bengali, Punjabi, Marathi and English-speaking audiences alike. DistroTV’s line-up includes a diverse roster of content, all in one easy to view places for all, giving content providers more ways to distribute their content and advertisers more tools to target and dynamically serve ads. CEO Navdeep Saini Vice President of Business Development Rajesh Nair commented ‘‘After the official launch in 2021 we are delighted to announce new channels to our platform providing DistroTV users with access to more Desi channels for free, a convenient way to watch the shows you love when you want, where you want, and on your terms across a wide range of device options. And It’s completely free, you do not need to register or subscribe and is available across any device on platform’’ To engage with the communities, DistroTV Desi is actively having a presence at events around the UK to reach out to the communities who are not aware of DistroTV and its benefits. Download the FREE DistroTV app today and explore a world of FREE TV! NO need to register or subscribe.
AW Facts Did you know? Raj Kapoor’s ‘Mera Naam Joker’ was the first Hindi movie to have not one but two intervals
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April 2022
FORUM BIRMINGHAM ANNOUNCES GLOBAL NAMES AND FURTHER INVESTMENT AS MUSIC INDUSTRY BOUNCES BACK One of the UK’s newest venues and club spaces has announced a series of major new shows along with further investment in its historic building, in line with the music and night-time industries welcoming fans back following the global pandemic. Forum Birmingham will host international reggae star Sean Paul; electronic music legends Faithless, Pete Tong and A Guy Called Gerald in one exclusive night; and leading dancehall duo Govana and Skeng, in addition to upcoming dates from Mercury-nominated UK rapper Slowthai; leading reggae broadcaster and selector David Rodigan MBE with Shy FX and special guests, and Birmingham smash hit indie-rockers Editors – all over the coming months. The 3,500 capacity newly upgraded complex featuring a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system is investing further in facilities to include an exclusive room for VIPs and a cutting edge audio-visual offering in its second room, Space54. Forum Birmingham is also broadening its programme to present more live music and community and city-focused events. Forum Birmingham co-director Billy Chauhan said: “We’re thrilled to see audiences and revellers returning back to music performances and club nights across Birmingham and the UK. The nighttime community in Birmingham and the UK is now seeing signs of confidence in, and demand for, the types of incredible shared experiences that we all enjoyed creating and taking part in, preCovid. “With a series of headline shows from
some of the biggest names in music coming up in both our main room and Space54, Forum Birmingham is delighted to be welcoming music fans over the coming months. The team looks forward to working with colleagues across the entertainment industries as well as the Birmingham and Midlands community to deliver a broad and vibrant event offering over summer 2022 and beyond.” Forum Birmingham, located on the site of the city’s legendary Hummingbird, Top Rank and Carling Academy venues, reopened its doors in September 2021. Since then, artists and major names in music such as Andy C, AP Dhillon, Chase & Status, Mike Skinner, and Skream have performed at the venue. The renovation of the Dale End building, which in previous incarnations hosted shows by global superstars throughout the 1970s through to the 2000s including The Ramones, The Clash, Nirvana and Sonic Youth, included restoration of the original woven wooden sprung dance floor, stripped back and newly polished concrete floors, a steel mezzanine, and the installation of a highly-regarded d&b audiotechnik line array sound system. As well as the main stage room, the venue also features Space 54, a 350 capacity second room with its own high spec light and sound offering. Cutting edge visuals throughout the venue have been provided by DMX Productions – the team behind stages at Glastonbury and Global Gathering amongst others – including high resolution LED screens, special FX and immersive lighting. Future events at the central Birmingham
showcasing four of the most exciting tastemakers in UK underground music (Friday 1 April) • A high-profile dub, reggae and jungle clash featuring DJ and broadcaster David Rodigan MBE; drum and bass royalty Shy FX and General Levy, and Trojan and Channel One sound systems in the main Forum space (Saturday 9 April) • House and techno DJs Dusky, DJ Seinfeld, Mella Dee, reli.ah & Bad Girls Club take over the main stage in Birmingham’s new club space for a night of sonic exploration (Saturday 30 April)t • British electronic music pioneers Faithless land at Forum for a one-off DJ set, plus Ibiza and BBC Radio 1 legend Pete Tong and acid house hero A Guy Called Gerald, along with Ceri and Hilit Kolet (Saturday 28 May)
space are connecting with its eclectic 50year music history, securing its role as a top destination for UK music fans. They include: • UK Mercury-nominated gritty vocalist and rapper Slowthai visits Forum Birmingham with his Hell is Home tour, off the back of 2021 UK chart-topping album Tyron and collaborations with Florida rapper Denzel Curry and Irish punks Fontaines DC (Saturday 26 March)
• The hugely successful 24hr Garage Girls collective starring Shosh, Leanne Louise, and Kelsey make their Space 54 debut, plus sets from Champion, Soulecta and Oppidan in a five hour marathon spanning bassline to classic old skool to club anthems (Saturday 26 March) • Hotly-tipped Ninja Tune-signed producer and BBC Radio 1 ‘Future Artist’ THSA in a Space 54 first, with a bill featuring Chloe Robinson, Nia Archives and LCY – a multi-genre event
• A triumphant hometown return for Birmingham’s global indie rock stars Editors, fronted by Tom Smith, will close the city’s Sonic Wave Festival in the Forum Birmingham main space on Dale End (Sunday 5 June 2022) • Grammy award-winning Jamaican reggae and dancehall king Sean Paul visits the city with his rescheduled ‘Scorcha’ tour, following the release of his eighth studio album of the same name on Island Records, featuring collaborations with Gwen Stefani and Sia amongst others (Friday 26 August)
LOCAL 4-11
GLOBAL 12-14
BUSINESS 15-16
GLAM 17-19
WEDDINGS 20-21
HEALTH 22-23
FOOD 24-25
TECH 26
TRAVEL 27
MOTORING 28
SPORTS 29
April 2022
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SIR LENNY HENRY CENTRE FOR MEDIA DIVERSITY HELPS SHAPE ITV’S NEW £80M EQUITY DRIVE
Birmingham City University’s Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity has helped ITV develop plans to improve racial equity and disability equity in its programming content. The broadcaster has just announced plans to reserve £80m of its content commissioning budget over the next three years on a new diversity drive, with at least £20m of the total reserved for content made by Black, Asian and minority ethnic-led and disabled-led production companies. ITV has also created a new £500k development fund to develop ideas that will qualify for the Diversity Commissioning Fund. Complementing similar initiatives by the BBC and Channel 4 and developed in consultation with BCU’s Sir Lenny Henry Centre, ITV’s Diversity Commissioning Fund is designed to drive lasting change across the sector. With this £80m commitment over three years, ITV is significantly increasing its annual spend on diverse content. Launched in March 2020, BCU’s Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity (LHC) is a research centre bringing together the expertise of established media professionals and academics. In addition
to its work with ITV, the Centre has also produced research into black representation in UK documentaries, a report on the use of and responses to BAME terminology for the BBC and the Black to Front report for Channel 4 to help to increase Black representation on all shows. Commenting on ITV’s new diversity fund, Marcus Ryder from Birmingham City University’s Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity said: “ITV dedicating programme finance for television productions that meet set criteria to positively increase diversity and inclusion is an important development. The Lenny Henry Centre is happy to have been consulted in the process, and if implemented fully we see this as a vital policy tool in any broadcaster’s efforts to increase representation of underrepresented groups in production.” To qualify for the ITV fund, productions must meet either the first criteria, or two of the remaining criteria: »» Diverse company ownership or leadership – senior individuals in company ownership or leadership roles (including through co-production partnerships) involved in shaping creative or operational strategy
within the production company (e.g. Managing Director, Creative Director) must be Black, Asian or minority ethnic and/or disabled.
»» Diverse creative leadership – at least two individuals in senior creative decision-making roles off-screen involved in shaping and making the
programme (e.g. writer, producer, director) must be Black, Asian or minority ethnic and/or disabled. »» Diverse stories and portrayal onscreen – subject matter and stories are from a Black, Asian or minority ethnic and/or disabled perspective, and/or starring Black, Asian or minority ethnic or disabled actors in lead roles. »» Diverse salary spend – at least 20% of total salary spend off-screen on the production must be on Black, Asian or minority ethnic and/or disabled creatives. Ade Rawcliffe, ITV’s Group Director of Diversity and Inclusion, explained the new initiative: “ITV is committed to creating content by, with, and for everyone, connecting and reflecting modern audiences. We want more people of colour and disabled people to be able to tell their stories and get opportunities in senior production roles. With this reserve fund, we’re working to speed up progress in a sustainable way and play our part to change the structure of the industry.”
BIRMINGHAM METRO BANKERS TURN CHEFS TO COOK FOR THE HOMELESS
MAK HALAL CONTINUES TO EXPAND
The UK’s community bank, Metro Bank, gives every colleague a Day to Amaze – essentially a paid day off to support a local charity or good cause. Colleagues from Metro Bank’s Birmingham store decided to use their Day to Amaze by volunteering for SIFA Fireside where they helped prepare over one hundred meals for homeless people. SIFA Fireside is a charity that supports people in their recovery from the effects of homelessness. The charity helps people rebuild their lives by providing a number of services through an adult support hub, drop-in centre and tenancy support.Metro Bank colleagues Naser Ahmed and Simran Kaur helped prepare
the meals. “As a community bank you can always count on us for support,” says Naser Ahmed, Birmingham Metro Bank’s Customer Service Representative. “The impact of being able to offer a good home cooked meal to someone who needs it cannot be underestimated. It was really rewarding to be able to support such a good cause.” Simran Kaur, Birmingham Metro Bank’s Customer Service Representative added: “It was so heartwarming to do something so simple to brighten someone’s day. I enjoyed cooking and I am looking forward to our next visit.”
The UK’s most vibrant Halal burger chain is set to open 10 stores by late 2022. Since launching back in 2016 Mak Halal has opened four branches in Birmingham. In 2021 they began to take their product further afield with new restaurants in Walsall and Bradford. They kicked off March with their latest store in Nottingham and they will take their first steps outside England when they open in Cardiff on the 28th of March. Mak Halal’s great success story is based on attention to detail
combined with the dedication to customer satisfaction. The company’s moto is “come hungry, leave happy.” Mak Halal’s mouth-watering menu provides food lovers with a wide variety of flame grilled burgers using 100% prime beef, cooked to perfection. It also includes a great range of pizzas and paninis along with vegan options to ensure there is something for everyone. This has allowed them to go from serving to a mostly Muslim market to a wide range of customers.
A Mak Halal spokesperson said: “We couldn’t be happier with the recent growth of our brand and we’re looking to keep that momentum going this year. Our latest openings have seen a strong turnout and the initial feedback was very positive. The fact that we’ve been able to go from a local Birmingham restaurant to getting set to expand into Wales tells us there is a demand for the authentic taste of Halal in the UK.”
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April 2022
HEALTH
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HYDROCEPHALUS AWARENESS WEEK:
MUM REVEALS IMPACT CONDITION HAS HAD ON LIFE A mum diagnosed with a potentially fatal brain condition more than two years after a Hospital Trust failed to spot a tumour is calling for lessons to be learned. Samia Tahir has now spoken for the first time about the ongoing impact hydrocephalus, a build-up of excess fluid which puts pressure on the brain, has had on her life as she supports a major awareness campaign. The 36-year-old from Altrincham was diagnosed with the condition at the end of April 2017 after she was admitted to Wythenshawe Hospital with a severe headache, vomiting and a swollen face. Samia, a mum-of-two is married to Tahir Saleem, had undergone a CT scan at the hospital in March 2015 but a non-cancerous tumour wasn’t picked up. She had been complaining of headache, fear of light and blurred vision. Samia continued to complain of migraine-type symptoms and neck pain. She attended various appointments at the hospital on a number of occasions over the next two years before she was admitted as an emergency in April 2017. She underwent surgery to drain fluid from her brain and remove the tumour and spent around six weeks in hospital. Samia, an admin clerk at Manchester University Foundation Trust, has cognitive and memory problems. She has instructed expert medical negligence lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate and help her access the specialist therapies and support she requires. Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Wythenshawe Hospital, admitted a breach of duty in that it failed to diagnose Samia’s tumour in March 2015. However, it currently denies that the delay in diagnosis caused Samia’s hydrocephalus and cognitive problems. Samia and her legal team at Irwin Mitchell are marking Hydrocephalus Awareness Week. Running until 13 March, the campaign aims to put a spotlight on the condition and support available. Nicola Ashton, the expert medical negligence lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Samia, said: “Hydrocephalus is caused by a buildup of fluid on the brain which creates increased pressure, which in turn can damage the brain. If left untreated, hydrocephalus can
be fatal, so its impact should never be downplayed. “The last few years and trying to come to terms with what happened understandably has been incredibly difficult for Samia and her family. She has had a number of concerns about what happened to her; the Trust’s admission that it failed to diagnose her tumour is particularly worrying. “While nothing can make up for what Samia has been through we’re determined to help her access the specialist therapies she requires. “She has shown a huge amount of courage in sharing her story to help others and we join her in supporting this important campaign. It’s also vital that the Trust learns lessons from the issues identified in her care.” Samia now has attentional and information processing problems. She has also struggled with issues like anxiety, a low mood and fatigue. Despite the problems, she is trying to move forward with her life and is wanting to become involved with The Brain Tumour Charity. Samia said: “It’s been an incredibly difficult few years and I’m still coming to terms with everything that has happened. While I look physically well, it’s been hard coping with my hidden symptoms – like memory problems and fatigue. “I was a lot more happy go lucky before my hydrocephalus and surgery and had a great outlook on
life. Now I find my attitude towards things has changed. I’m not as calm as I used to be and get frustrated that I’m not as independent as I was. Even small things like putting jars back in the wrong place or mixing up clothes frustrate me. “I also feel that I’m not able to help
the children as much with their homework as I can make mistakes so it’s unfair on them. “I know nothing can change what I’ve been through, but I hope that by sharing my story I can help others who may be going through similar issues.
“I had to leave my job role as PA and downgrade to an admin clerk as I was forgetting tasks that were given to me by my manager and I began making mistakes. “Hydrocephalus has had a big impact on my life but I’m so grateful to everyone who has supported me. People affected by hydrocephalus shouldn’t feel they have to suffer alone as help and is support is out there.”
MUM THANKS THE SICK CHILDREN’S TRUST FOR SUPPORTING HER WHILE SON WAS CRITICALLY ILL • Carter had been born a month early and had previously stayed in hospital with jaundice. When he wasn’t feeding properly and would scream then suddenly become quiet Georgie became very concerned and rushed Carter to A&E herself. • When they arrived at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, an hour away from their home, Carter’s condition had deteriorated considerably and he needed to be resuscitated. • Eventually the doctors managed to stabilise Carter, but he was still struggling with his breathing and needed to be intubated and kept on the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU). He had developed a respiratory virus from a cold and as a result was experiencing breathing apnoea due to a build-up of mucus in his lungs. • As Georgie was trying to work out how she was going to stay with Carter, as parents are unable to stay on the intensive care wards, she was told about The Sick Children’s Trust and its ‘Home from Home’ Acorn House.
• Acorn House is one of ten ‘Homes from Home’ the charity runs which supports families from across the country with a free place to stay close to their seriously ill children’s hospital bedside. • During Carter’s two week recovery Georgie was always just minutes away from his side with her daughter Elsie and partner Sean also able to stay at Acorn House. • This year The Sick Children’s Trust is celebrating 40 years of keeping families, like Georgie’s, together while their children are seriously in hospital. Since the charity was launched in 1982 they have made sure more than 73,000 families have been able to stay just minutes away from their ill child’s hospital bedside. • Georgie is encouraging everyone to support the charity’s appeal to raise £237,000 which will support families in all 148 rooms of its ten ‘Homes from Home’ for 40 nights.
LOCAL 4-11
GLOBAL 12-14
BUSINESS 15-16
GLAM 17-19
WEDDINGS 20-21
HEALTH 22-23
FOOD 24-25
TECH 26
TRAVEL 27
MOTORING 28
SPORTS 29
April 2022
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April 2022
FOOD
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Asian World’s Kitchen
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CHEF KEITH PEARS A COOKING JOURNEY FILLED WITH EBB AND FLOW
Chef Keith Pears (Instagram A/c: keith_ pears) from Toronto, Canada is an executive chef for W Toronto. He belongs to the chef family as his parents & grandparents were chefs, it will be not wrong if we say that cooking and becoming a chef is in his blood. His grandparents owned a Chinese western café, he grew up helping his grandma by peeling potatoes & snacking on rice balls. He was always around the food, when his parents used to arrange dinner parties, gatherings he was there with them standing by their side to help. His parents supported a lot to make his dream come true of becoming a chef. He went to culinary school, grew up learning through cooking competitions. He won many awards like Best of the West 2011 & 2012, Canadian Hot competition 2012, BCCA Top Iron Chef 2014, First place best entrée 2015 Healthy Chef, Chopped Canada TV show on Food network Canada 2016, ACE Executive Chef – 2018 “Continent” Americas Chef of the Year (Marriott award), Great Kitchen Party 1st place winner for Toronto 2019.
Q
Your parents were chefs, that’s why you chose this profession, or was it your dream to become a chef? Chef Keith: I started in the industry when I was 14. My first job was working for my parents’ dishwashing to make some extra money. I was never academically smart but I always enjoyed art class in high school. After high school my mom saw something in me and pushed me to go to culinary school. After placing second in my first cooking competition and now been in the industry for 8 years. I grew confidence in myself and I started to see the art in food. Since then, I was hooked.
Q
Cooking is in your blood as you belong from the chef’s family. Did this thing make your path easy to become a chef? Chef Keith: I think yes and no. I was pretty much born into the industry. As a baby my mom would bring me to work and leave me in the large stock pots when
she couldn’t find a babysitter. My earliest memories are of me running around and playing with my grandparents at their Chinese Western Café in Vancouver. My parents were always moving from restaurant to restaurant moving up the ranks, so travelling for their work was something we did a lot as a young child. Being exposed to a variety of different food and the restaurant scene is something that I think benefited me. I feel blessed to have had this as my roots. Creating my own path was the hard part. In the kitchen my parents were always harder on me than any of the other cooks. They had high expectations as they should have. As I grew as a young adult it became more difficult. As a cook I was reaching the point in my career where maybe I thought that calling myself a chef was achievable, I was still always known as Lynda Larouche’s (my mom) son. I didn’t have my own name. Then I realized that if I really wanted to accomplish the things, I had to leave and stop working for them, so I did that. I know my mom always wanted me to be better. That motivated me and I put everything into cooking and bettering myself. It allowed me to achieve becoming an Executive Chef of a hotel at the age of 32. Since then, the journey has been filled with ebbs and flows but that’s all about the process and I wouldn’t change it.
Q
Chinese food is described with traditional aspects i.e., color, smell, taste as well as meaning, appearance, nutrition of the food. What do you have to say about it? Chef Keith: My grandparents came from Taishan, Guangdong. This city is located southwest of Guangdong province in China. I am a third generation Canadian, so my family was pretty Westernized, but the tradition of Chinese cooking is still very obvious in our household. My grandmother put so much thought into every dish she was cooking. Each ingredient had a reason for why it was being consumed for example to help you grow taller, help you become stronger, etc. Medicinal herbs were incorporated in
four traditions in Chinese cuisine. I have worked with Chefs in the past who have told me it takes about 30 years to become a master chef of Chinese Cuisine. What I have been told is that in parts of South and East China (Yue), the foods are mostly mild, slightly sweet, and really focus on the original flavors of the ingredients – this is what is known as Cantonese Cuisine which my family cooked often. In the North (Lu), people like to pickle and preserve a lot of their foods to avoid waste due to their cold weather and economic history. Also, the water in this region is very alkaline and the vinegar in the pickling helps to neutralize it. Lastly, in Central China, spicy foods are often enjoyed due to its cold climate.
Q
Why are desserts served as snacks and eaten between meals in China? Chef Keith: At the end of a meal, Chinese people will often eat fresh fruits rather than sweets such as cakes. Desserts are what is referred to as Dim Sum. Dim Sum can be savory or sweet. They are small bite sized foods that are commonly enjoyed even late at night.
foods such as ginseng, star anise etc because food was always related to health. There is always an abundance of colors and a variety of food groups at our family dinner table.
Q
Why is the whole country China divided into 4 parts: sweet south, salty north, sour east, spicy west? Chef Keith: The differences in the preference for seasonings and cooking techniques is really influenced by differences in historical background and ethnic groups. The local climate also impacts the ingredients that are available to them and how they handle these ingredients. For example, in Central China, they tend to eat spicy foods to gain heat for the cold weather conditions and to bring a healthy digestive system. This is like the different traditional cooking techniques you see around the world.
Q
Ancient Chinese text describes what to prepare for meals but also tells how to eat meals like eat naturally, sit down to eat at a quiet place. Do Chinese people still follow this text and why was this text made? Chef Keith: Chinese people believe eating can bring harmony and closeness to the family. I myself come from a large extended family and dinners are a very important part of my family. We would meet weekly at my grandmother’s house for a communal dinner where some traditions of mealtime etiquette are followed. The oldest sets the table and the youngest delivers the bowls of rice.
Q
The four traditions in Chinese cuisines are Chuan, Lu, Yue, Huaiyang representing cuisines of West, North, South, East China. Please tell me something about it. Chef Keith: I am not as familiar with the
Q
Any advice for the upcoming chefs. Chef Keith: If this is your path you choose then give it your all. Be dedicated, have the desire. Read books, do research. It’s a lot of work but it’s also very fun and rewarding. Be patient. Don’t rush and don’t chase the money. The reality is that it takes a long time to be a good cook. Come in early and stay late. Ask a lot of questions. Don’t stop bugging the older cooks/chefs for knowledge. Soak it all up. Take notes, do their prep work to learn new things. Cook on your days off. Go eat out. Travel for food and eat at the best restaurants and eat at the mom-and-pop ones. Learn the basics and classic cooking before you try to do any molecular cooking or any type of fusion. Have fun during the process. Taste Everything! Enjoy the ride!
By: Rida Khan (Aviation Author)
LOCAL 4-11
GLOBAL 12-14
BUSINESS 15-16
GLAM 17-19
WEDDINGS 20-21
HEALTH 22-23
FOOD 24-25
TECH 26
TRAVEL 27
MOTORING 28
SPORTS 29
April 2022
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ASIAN CURRY AWARDS 2022 LAUNCHED AT HOUSE OF LORDS
The 12th annual Asian Curry Awards were launched at one the most prestigious events in the hospitality calendar, at the House of Lords on 2nd March. Following a live cook-off in February, a select audience of 120 ambassadors, dignitaries, embassy officials, politicians, VIPs and leading restaurateurs, feted the winners of the Asian & Oriental Chefs Awards, presented by BBC News Anchor Samantha, hosted by Lord Sheikh, organised by the Asian Catering Federation (ACF) and sponsored by Just Eat. Chef Ashwani Kumar of the Mango Lounge in Windsor has scooped the top award at this year’s Asian & Oriental Chef Awards The Runners-Up award went to Vinod Rawat of Pushkar restaurant in Birmingham, who won Fine Dining Chef of the Year – West Midlands, with Iqbal Ahamad, Head Chef of the acclaimed Grand Trunk Road in Woodford in East London in third place – who was named Fine Dining Chef of the Year – London. Jie Chen, Chef at Canton Kitchen in London’s Chinatown was named Oriental Chef of the Year. Kamrul Hoque the Chefs at Kushi restaurants in Romford in East London, plus Grays and Canvey Island in Essex respectively, both received Highly Commended awards. A Special Recognition Award was presented to Sujan Katuwal, the founder of Panas Gurkha Restaurant in Lewisham, South London, who donated
100,000 free meals to frontline NHS workers during the pandemic, The event also served as a platform to announce the ACF’s other annual awards: the 6th Asian Restaurant Awards, being held at the Manchester Hilton on 27th June and Edinburgh at the Sheraton Grand on 19th September, plus the 12th Asian Curry Awards taking place at the Grosvenor House on 20th 21st November 2022.
Speaking at the presentation, Andrew Kenny, Managing Director of Just Eat UK, headline sponsors of the ACF said:
“
Just Eat has proudly supported the Asian Catering Federation for a number of years. After an undeniably difficult period for the hospitality sector, there’s never been a better time to recognise the resilient and hardworking individuals across the Asian catering industry, who are making an invaluable contribution to both their local community and the UK economy.
”
Heralding a “totally new breed” of chefs who are replacing those who “failed to adapt to changing times,” ACF Chairman Yawar Khan said: “Standards have risen exponentially since we launched our various awards to recognise the most innovative chefs,” and urged members of the public to support their local restaurants and preferred destination venues, by nominating them for this year’s events. Speaking on behalf of the panel of judges, which included Sameer Executive Chef of the Michelin starred Benares, the high acclaimed Chad Rahman of Chez Mumtaz Restaurant
in St Alban’s described an “Incredible display of culinary excellence exhibited by the competing chefs, with exceptionally high standard of complex flavour combinations, creativity, innovation and originality to tantalize the taste buds, with faultless plate presentation, clean flavours, texture, colour and vibrancy in the choice of ingredients.” “This is a true celebration of multiculturalism here in Britain via the medium of food. I was happy to see how these young chefs are pushing the boundaries of Asian cuisine for a modern interpretation, with a focus on
innovation rather than fusion.” Spice lovers can vote for their favourite restaurants via www.asiancurryawards.com and www.acfederation.org. ACF awards are the only accolades open to restaurants and takeaways across the full range of pan Asian cosines including: Bangladeshi, Burmese, Chinese, Filipino, Indian, Indonesian, Japanese Korean, Malaysian, Middle Eastern, Pakistani, Singaporean, Sri Lankan, Thai, Turkish and Vietnamese. The awards are also supported by Booker Wholesale.
FANTASTIC FOODS TO HAVE AT RAMADAN Dates Dates are a blessed food mentioned numerous times in the Quran and they are amazing and excellent to include as part of your suhoor meal. Whole oat pudding Oats are a great source of fibre that slow down the release of energy and keep you fuller for longer. Steel-cut oats, which take around 15 minutes to cook, contain even more fibre than other oat varieties. You can cook the oats in milk for a more rich taste. Sweeten your oats with a drizzle of honey, then mix in some dried fruits and top it up with pumpkin seeds and you’re good to go! Peanut butter and banana Peanut butter is an excellent protein source, and it’s filled with healthy monounsaturated fat, which has a satiating effect. Spread on whole grain bread and pair it with sliced bananas. Why bananas you ask? Well, because
the yellow fruit is a source of resistant starch, which helps many people to feel full up. Bananas can also help keep those midmorning cravings away. Poached Eggs Eggs are considered to be a healthy basis of protein and contain vitamin D, although they are avoided by some of due to their high cholesterol content. Add the poached eggs on top of grainy toasts and top them off with sliced tomatoes for a full nutritional breakfast. Watermelon and halloumi As the name suggests, watermelon is a juicy fruit and it is a great way to hydrate for only 40 calories per cup. If it is combined with white halloumi cheese, it would sustain a great filling effect. Fruit smoothie Not every smoothie is the same. A lot of smoothies have high amounts of sugar and can leave
you feeling hungry. The one we have chosen is quite the opposite. Combined with dry chia seeds, yoghurt, grapes with skin intact and ice, then blended together to achieve a smooth and yummy drink. This smoothie would contain omega 3, fibre, and protein all in one go, while it is keeping your blood sugar balanced. Quinoa porridge Quinoa is a vegetarian food source which is rich in protein and fibre. It also makes a great gluten-free alternative to oats. Cook it with coconut milk and dice in some apples and cinnamon for a great tasting meal. Frozen yoghurt parfait with granola and berries Craving for something sweet? Store-bought plain old frozen yoghurt is your answer and it only takes a couple of minutes to prepare it in a bowl. Make sure to select satiating toppings, which include fruits, berries and granola.
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April 2022
TECHNOLOGY
NEW DRIVING SIMULATOR SECURES 2022 BRITISH ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE AWARD
Just two months after receiving the Queen’s Award for Enterprise, Hethel-based Ansible Motion has added another accolade in 2022, winning a British Engineering Excellence Award (BEEAs). Judges from across the UK’s engineering sector selected its cutting-edge Delta series S3 driving simulator for the Engineered Product Award. At a prestigious ceremony, held in person for the first time since the start of the pandemic, the 2022 BEEAs recognise companies and individuals who have excelled in engineering design innovation within the last year. Ansible Motion’s ability to deliver performance enhancements, technical innovations and the company’s overall commercial success, were key factors in it winning the keenly fought Engineered Product of the Year , an award category sponsored by Comsol. Ansible Motion was founded to create simulation tools that connect real people to virtual environments such that they believe they are interacting with actual vehicles. The new-for-2022 Delta series S3 is the company’s most powerful and innovative dynamic driving simulator product to date. Packed with perfor-
mance enhancements to enable carmakers to do more testing, more safely and sustainably, the product has already attracted interest and orders from both the automotive and motorsport sectors. These include BMW Motorsport, Honda R&D, Continental and Deakin University in Australia. Orders are being taken at a rate four times faster than for its predecessor, the Delta series S2. Kia Cammaerts, founder and director of Ansible Motion said: “It’s a very special moment to secure an award that recognises the engineering undertaken by our skilled team. Covid forced us to find new ways to solve problems and deliver these units to customers eager to realise the benefits and advantages that the Delta series S3 offers over other driving simulators. I was delighted to share the award success with so many of our team at the cer-
emony, so their contribution was recognised first-hand.” About Ansible Motion Founded in 2009, Ansible Motion creates and deploys technology associated with the physical and logical simulation of humandirected vehicles. We offer a range of automotive Driver-inthe-Loop (DIL) simulators featuring advanced computational and mechanical performance capabilities, and industry-unique motion and immersion solutions that create compelling virtual worlds for drivers and product development engineers. Ansible Motion DIL simulators are used by automotive and research organisations around the globe to place real people into direct contact with imagined vehicles, on-board systems and situations. Our DIL simulators are designed, built and developed at our factory and R&D Centre in Hethel, England.
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NEW TECHNOLOGY: 3D PRINTING IN THE NEW PEUGEOT 308 PEUGEOT is reinventing car accessories thanks to innovative 3D printing technology and a brand new flexible polymer. Available on the PEUGEOT LIFESTYLE shop, a range of accessories including a sunglasses holder, a can holder and a phone/card holder has been created specifically for the new PEUGEOT 308. This is the first time that 3D printing technology has been used on car accessories. These accessories are the result of a joint effort by PEUGEOT’s Design, Product and Research & Development teams in collaboration with HP Inc., Mäder and ERPRO. They are 3D printed using the new HP Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) 3D printing technology. The aim is to offer innovative products that are pleasant to the touch, light, solid and easy to use, and which enhance the interior well-being offered by the 308 and the latest generation PEUGEOT i-Cockpit®. The designers’ objective at the start of the project was to create accessories that were visual, innovative, and crafted from modern materials. The range of accessories was drawn up after a detailed analysis of how customers use storage in the car. As traditional materials did not meet the specifications, the “Colours and Materials” team within the PEUGEOT Design department worked with its partners to develop a more innovative material to suit this purpose. 3D printing was the obvious solution. Flexible and environmentallyfriendly – the technology of the future: 3D printing adapts to the needs of an increasingly demanding and unpredictable market; all kinds of customised objects and accessories can be produced without needing expensive moulds and manufacturing tools. Importantly, 3D printing is better for the environment and as such contributes to the brand’s quest for more sustainable manufacturing processes. Its use is becoming more and more widespread and is revolutionising the manufacturing system across many industries. Indeed, additive manufacturing is becoming an alternative to manufacturing techniques
such as injection moulding. The range of 3D printed accessories are available in two colours, black and mint green. 3D printing offers many additional advantages: »» Design freedom: fewer manufacturing constraints means that 3D printing allows greater creative freedom for designers and infinite possibilities for part complexity (due to there being no injection moulding). »» Optimised structures: reduced weight, greater strength, fewer assemblies. »» Agile production: infinite customisation possibilities, mass production with shorter lead times, and no need for storage thanks to “on demand” production. This technology is constantly evolving, both in terms of the materials used and the production methods; and the production costs just keep going down. Innovative materials: In just a few months, the teams have jointly developed a new polymer that has 3 main advantages: »» Flexibility: a flexible, malleable and robust polymer »» Speed: the manufacturing process is short and made to measure »» Quality of rendering: highly accurate details thanks to very fine molecules The result of the partnership between HP Inc and BASF is the flexible material Ultrasint thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), a material that offers durable, strong and flexible parts. It is a perfect material for impact absorbing parts that require high elasticity and for flexible meshlike structures. The material can be used to produce parts with a high surface quality and a very high level of detail. The use of TPU in a car interior is a new approach, which has been patented by the STELLANTIS Group. PEUGEOT has chosen to use HP Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) 3D printing technology. HP Multi Jet Fusion is a brand new layerby-layer additive manufacturing technology on a powder bed. PEUGEOT was one of the first to use this technology in the de-
velopment of the 3D accessories range. HOW DOES ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING WORK? The process starts with the transfer of a digital CAD (computer aided design) file to a 3D printer, in this case a HP Multi Jet Fusion 3D printer. The process works by depositing a binder onto a powder by combining: »» A binding agent to fuse the powder »» A specific agent, known as a detailer to “smooth” the surface. Printing phase: »» HP Multi Jet Fusion uses a print head to selectively apply fusing and detailing agents to a polymer powder bed, which is then melted by heating elements to form a solid layer. »» After each layer (80µm thick), more powder is added to the previous bed, and the process repeats until the part is complete. Post-processing phase: »» When the build is complete, the entire powder bed with the encapsulated parts is sent to a processing station where most of the remaining powder is removed by vacuum suction »» The parts are then sandblasted to remove the powder residue before going to the finishing department, where they are painted to improve aesthetics. 3D printing has a future at Peugeot 3D printing is still in its infancy in the automotive industry, but this technology is intended to be used not only on the range of accessories, but also on more technical parts of the next PEUGEOT models.
AW Facts Did you know? More people in the World have access to a mobile phone than a toilet
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The government will remove the remaining restrictions on international travel for all passengers ahead of the Easter holidays, the Transport Secretary announced today (14 March 2022). As one of the first major economies to remove all its remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions, this is a landmark moment for passengers and the travel and aviation sector. From 4am Friday 18 March, all COVID-19 travel restrictions will be lifted, including the passenger locator form (PLF) for arrivals into UK, as well as all tests for passengers who do not qualify as vaccinated. This change, therefore, removes the need for unvaccinated passengers to take a pre-
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ALL COVID-19 TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS REMOVED IN THE UK
departure test and a day 2 post arrival test. This step reflects the decisions taken by the government, as set out in the Living with COVID plan, and the success of the UK’s vaccine and booster rollout, with 86% of the population having received a second dose and 67% of the population with a booster or third dose.
I said we wouldn’t keep travel measures in place for any longer than necessary, which we’re delivering on today – providing more welcome news and greater freedom for travellers ahead of the Easter holidays. I look forward to continuing to work with the travel sector and partners around the world to keep international travel moving.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: The UK is leading the world in removing all remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions, and today’s announcement is a testament to the hard work everyone in this country has put in place to roll out the vaccine and protect each other.
Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid said: As we learn to live with COVID-19, we’re taking further steps to open up international travel once again ahead of the Easter holidays. We will continue monitoring and tracking potential new variants
and keep a reserve of measures that can be rapidly deployed if needed to keep us safe. We can remove these final restrictions thanks to the incredible success of our vaccination programme, which has seen more than 8 out of 10 adults across the UK boosted. To ensure the protection of public health, the government will maintain a range of contingency measures in reserve, which would enable it to take swift and proportionate action to delay any future harmful variants of COVID-19 entering the UK should the need arise. In future, the government’s default approach will be to use the least stringent measures, if appropriate, to minimise the impact on travel as far as possible – given the high personal, economic and international costs border measures can have – and the contingency measures will only be implemented in extreme circumstances. Given the current state of the pandemic and a move towards global travel volumes returning to normal, the remaining managed hotel quarantine capacity will be fully stood down from the end of March. Tim Alderslade, Chief Executive of Airlines UK, said: Today’s announcement sends a clear message to the world – the UK travel sector is back. With travellers returning to the UK no longer burdened by unnecessary forms and testing requirements, we can now look forward to the return to pre-COVID normality
throughout the travel experience. We’re grateful for the timing of the announcement as we prepare to welcome back passengers this Easter and summer, for which we know there is huge pent-up demand, and for the UK’s leadership in being the first major aviation market to remove all remaining restrictions. The time to return to the skies – to enjoy all that makes aviation and international travel great, for families and businesses – is now. Karen Dee, Chief Executive of Airport Operators Association, said: A return to restriction-free travel is good news for passengers and should allow for aviation to take significant steps towards recovery. People should feel encouraged to book their long-awaited holidays, trips to see relatives and friends abroad they haven’t seen for a long time and travel to rekindle business ties with other countries. Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: Two years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, today’s announcement marks international travel finally returning to normal. The removal of passenger locator forms and testing regimes means that customers can at long last enjoy hassle-free travel, just like they did before the pandemic. With Easter just around the corner and summer fast approaching, this announcement comes at the perfect time. Since restrictions started to be eased at the
beginning of the year, we have experienced strong, sustained demand and the complete removal of forms and requirements will boost that demand even further. Additionally, UKHSA will continue to closely monitor the prevalence and spread of harmful variants and keep international data under review. While there will be no border health measures on arrival in the UK from 18 March, other countries are at different stages in the pandemic and many still require passengers to comply with requirements. Travellers should continue to check GOV.UK travel guidance including Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice to keep up to date with other countries’ entry requirements. Passengers are also encouraged to carefully check booking conditions for flexibility in amending bookings prior to buying tickets. People will continue to be able to access their vaccine and recovery records through the NHS COVID Pass to use when travelling overseas.
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MOTORING
ŠKODA SET TO HELP IMPROVE POLICE BEATS NATIONWIDE WITH ALL-NEW FABIA
The new FABIA – launched in the UK in March – builds on the legacy of its predecessors with a dynamic new design and a raft of advanced comfort and safety technologies. Despite its increase in size it remains a compact and easy-to-drive car, making it an ideal solution for police forces nationwide. The FABIA’s incredible ability and value are far from its only traits to appeal to emergency services customers, however. A choice of four EVO petrol engines is available with power outputs of 80 PS to 150 PS, propelling the FABIA to 62 mph in as little as eight seconds and on to a top speed of 139mph for the rangetopping Monte Carlo spec with the 1.5-litre 150 PS engine. This performance is balanced with excellent fuel consumption and improved emissions, making the FABIA efficient and economical. The new FABIA also features the latest connectivity features and cutting-edge technology, including ŠKODA’s 10.25inch Virtual Cockpit technology, which makes its debut in the model and, alongside a 9.2-inch touchscreen, means that civilian and police drivers alike have easy access to all the information they need. For blue light services, this includes
360-degree lighting and a full integralevels – SE Comfort, SE L, Colour Edition of the emergency services’ comtion and Monte Carlo – come equipped munication platform within the existing as standard with LED headlights, Front infotainment setup, ensuring Assist, and Lane Assist. all functionality, such as With up to nine airbags The the lighting and siren, available, as well as a much-loved can be controlled raft of driver assist ŠKODA FABIA has been a through one accestechnology includpart of police fleets since the first sible central plat- generation arrived over two decades ing Manoeuvre ago, and now the award-winning form. Assist and PreFurther back, the fourth generation is the latest to join the dictive PedesFABIA’s boot ranks. With a combination of bold design, trian and Cyclist now provides enhanced connectivity, plus class-leading Protection, the safety and interior space, it’s the ideal 380-litres of FABIA offers perbeat car for police forces across the space – the largformance, protecUK, whether on city streets est in its segment tion and practicalor country lanes. and expandable up ity to police officers to 1,190 litres with the in the line of duty. rear seats down – allowing Bespoke conversions for room for everything police ofemergency services fleets can ficers require to perform their vital work be provided through ŠKODA’s ‘oneonce they arrive on scene. stop shop’ service. Alongside hassleThe new FABIA also boasts the title of free finance solutions, ŠKODA is able the safest car in its class, having received to provide fully converted vehicles to the full five-star rating from crash text suit specific requirements, giving emerexperts EURO NCAP. In addition to its gency services fleet managers the peace enhanced physical construction, which of mind that the conversion, breakdown has resulted in an extremely high level recovery, servicing, maintenance and reof torsional stiffness and improved hanpairs are built into one convenient packdling technology also plays a key role. age. All variants across the range’s four trim
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NEW MASERATI GRECALE GLOBAL PREMIERE
Grecale strikes the right balance between versatility, elegance, performance and innovation, guaranteeing performance, comfort and safety, all at the same time. These features are combined with off-road capabilities and uncompromising driving pleasure. Developed at the Maserati Innovation Lab in Modena, the new SUV is produced at the Cassino plant. Grecale is a range within the range, the Trident brand’s fullest ever. An extremely wide range of engines is available: conventional internal combustion, hybrid and, in a year’s time, Grecale will also be the first full-electric SUV in Maserati history. Three versions will be rolled out at launch: GT, powered by a four-cylinder mild hybrid engine capable of delivering 300 hp; Modena, with a four-cylinder 330-hp mild hybrid engine; and the powerful Trofeo, equipped with a high-performance 3.0L 530-hp petrol V6 based on the Nettuno engine fitted to the MC20. At launch, the Grecale is also available in the PrimaSerie Launch Edition, a limited edition featuring exclusive content. To complete the range, the Grecale Folgore, the 100% electric version with 400V technology. The new SUV stands out in terms of spaciousness and comfort, boasting an impressive set of “best-in-class” features. It is best-in-class in terms of interior space, driveability, handling, acceleration (0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds – on the Trofeo), top speed (285 km/h – again on the Trofeo), sound quality and extensive use of fine materials such as wood, carbon fibre and leather. Its dimensions are a major factor: in the GT version, Grecale is 4,846 mm long with a wheelbase of
2,901 mm, a height of 1,670 mm, a width of 2,163 mm (including wing mirrors), with a rear wheel track of 1,948 mm (and even greater in the Trofeo). The design of Grecale embraces Maserati’s new visual symbol, which distinguishes every new model since the MC20. The front features a low and imposing grille. The profile is notable for its contrast between purity and technique, with a highly fluid body featuring meandering, visual forms and its technical components highlighted by the use of carbon fibre. In the rear, the boomerang taillights are inspired by the Giugiaro 3200 GT and fit in with the trapezoidal line, made even more striking by the coupé effect of the cabin and its finish like a sports car’s. Inside, in the cabin, the standout tech specs include the traditional Maserati clockface. Digital for the first time, it transforms into a veritable in-car concierge, courtesy of voice control. Everything becomes touch-based, with extreme aesthetic cleanliness. The technology is controlled from the displays: the large 12.3” central screen, the largest ever seen in a Maserati, another 8.8” display for the extra controls and a third for the passengers in the rear seats. The in-car experience is managed from the Maserati Intelligent Assistant (MIA) Multimedia system, from the state-of-the-art infotainment and from Maserati Connect. The in-car sound is pushed to the absolute limits of enjoyment by an all-round sound experience, ensured by the typical Maserati roar and the immersive Sonus faber 3D sound system. The Sonus faber system – as standard at Premium level – includes 14 speakers, or 21 speakers on demand at High Premium level.
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He praised Mr Sandhu, characterizing him as a sports legend and a good guy.”I think everyone is unhappy,” he continued, “since he was the best player on the team.” “He’d play in any significant event or competition you could think of, including five world cups held by the Punjab government.” Mr Sandhu is a role model and advocate for the sport, according to Wolverhampton Wrestling Club head coach Ranjit Singh, who met him at various kabaddi and wrestling competitions. “First and foremost, he was a wonderful sportsman who contributed greatly to kabaddi itself, engaging in the youth and taking the sport to new heights,” he said. “He was also a fantastic player and one of the finest in the world, and, akin to what we do at our club, he paid back to the community and served as a role model by inspiring young people to take up the sport and reach high levels.” “It’s completely devastating to learn of his death since he’d gone to India as part of his normal routine and there was nothing to indicate that this would happen, so it’s a great shock to the athletic world, and my sympathy goes out to his family.” “He dedicated his life to kabaddi and loved the sport for 23 years,” said
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SANDEEP SANDHU, A WEST BROMWICH KABADDI LEGEND, SHOT TEN TIMES IN AN ALLEGED ASSASSINATION PLOT
Sandeep Singh Sandhu was stabbed ten times while watching a sport in Mallian Khurd, Punjab, on 14th March 2022. The audience at the kabaddi match were seen surging towards the area where Mr Sandhu sat, according to footage published on local Indian media. Three guys stepped out of a car and aimed at Mr Sandhu from a small distance before fleeing the area, according to Ashok Das, president of the England Kabaddi Association The 38-year-old father of three boys was a well-known figure in the South Asian sport, having captained the British national team and excelled as a goalkeeper in tournaments all over the country. Kabaddi’s basic principles are straightforward: two teams of seven players compete in a big square stadium for two 20-minute halves. Each team’s players alternate racing across the centre line to the opposing team’s half of the court, marking members of the opposing team, and running back. He was born in India but has spent most of his life in the United Kingdom, with his family owning and operating Crispy Cod, a fish and chip restaurant in Dudley.
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brother Angrez Singh. He was born into a farming family, but kabaddi has always been his love. We have faith in the police and are confident that justice will be served. “All we want is for the guilty to be brought to trial.” “He made an unequalled contribution to the sport,” said Hakam Singh, chairman of the Major League Kabaddi Federation. He began compensating referees and support employees. He also campaigned for dope tests similar to those used by the World Anti-Doping Agency. He was on a mission to clean up the game. “All we care about is justice.” It must be investigated who might profit from his assassination.” Mohammed Aurangzeb, chairman of the Dudley Kabaddi Club and director of the Birmingham Kabaddi Club, said he had heard about the incident and was still trying to digest it. “I’m incredibly disturbed about what’s happened, and it shouldn’t be happening to these types of players because they’re stars,” he added. “I hope the Indian government and authorities would take serious action to safeguard them.” “I can’t begin to express how devastating this is because these types of athletes don’t appear out of nowhere, and he was a tremendous hero to the people, so it’s a huge loss to us in the sport and in life.”
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BIRMINGHAM 2022 COMMONWEALTH GAMES QUEEN’S BATON RELAY ARRIVES IN AUSTRALIA Seven baton bearers – athletes and students from the University of Melbourne and University of Birmingham – marked the Queen’s Baton Relay arrival in Australia, running with the Baton across the Parkville campus in Melbourne. The event, hosted by the University of Melbourne and the University of Birmingham, celebrates the arrival in Australia of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay, of which the University of Birmingham is an official partner. Speaking about the Baton’s arrival in Australia, Professor Adam Tickell, Vice-Chancellor at the University of Birmingham commented: “The University of Birmingham is a civic university with a global outlook. Our Commonwealth connections are deep and wideranging, particularly in Australia, where we have engaged for decades in education and research partnerships with fellow founding member of Universitas 21 the University of Melbourne. “Sport is a unifying force and, as part of our commitment to supporting the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, we are holding a series of academic, student and partner events in Commonwealth countries to coincide with the Queen’s Baton Relay visit. “I am delighted that we can hold these exciting events, focussing on how we work collaboratively with research and education partners to tackle global challenges and help improve the quality of life for people in Australia and beyond.” Pro Vice-Chancellor (International) Professor Adrian Little, welcomed the Baton onto the Melbourne campus, along with Catriona Boyd, Deputy Consul General, from the Consulate of United Kingdom. “I am very pleased that our university is playing a part in this significant event – the Commonwealth Games are a great example of the strength of global partnerships. As an institution our own partnerships, including with fellow Universitas 21 member the University of Birmingham, are core to our identity and make our research and our engagement with students richer,” Professor Little said. “Sport plays an important role in connecting us to our global community in the spirit of competition, and Australia is a proudly sporting nation. I’m particularly pleased that our student athletes are represented here today, and I am excited to see many more competing on an international stage when the Games commence.” “This alliance reflects a strong UKAustralia Higher Education alliance. Both in terms of educational opportunities for students, with significant stu-
dent exchanges and joint PhD awards, and real areas of academic collaboration in key areas such as mental health,” Deputy Consul General Boyd said. “And sporting events like the Commonwealth Games provide a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our relationship, with some friendly competition!” The seven baton bearers from the University of Melbourne are: • Elena Galiabovitch, a Commonwealth and Olympic shooter. She is also a doctor and currently studying her masters at the University of Melbourne; • Joanna Weston, a netballer with the Melbourne Vixens. She studied a Bachelor of Commerce at University of Melbourne; • Mo Zhang, a Raymond Priestley Scholar undertaking a joint PhD at the Universities of Birmingham and Melbourne; • Renee Yong, a University of Melbourne student who studied at the University of Birmingham on exchange; • Sophie Clarkson, a University of Birmingham student on exchange at the University of Melbourne; • Franka Vaughan, a University of Birmingham graduate now studying a PhD at the University of Melbourne; and • Chloe Culhane, a University of Birmingham student on exchange at the University of Melbourne. The University of Birmingham’s environmental scientists have helped create a hi-tech ‘heart’ for the Queen’s Baton, which contains atmospheric sensors with laser technology that analyses the environmental conditions wherever it is in the world. Augmented Reality (AR) will be used to visualise creatively data captured throughout the journey to invite conversations around air quality across the Commonwealth. Data collected on the Baton’s journey will contribute to ongoing research projects being conducted across the globe by a team led by University of Birmingham atmospheric scientist Professor Francis Pope.
AW Facts Did you know? Sports Have Been Played on the Moon
MICHAEL OWEN LAUNCHES IPLSOCCER HOPING TO INSPIRE A GENERATION OF BRITISH ASIANS TO PLAY PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL Former England striker Michael Owen has urged more British Asians to take up football after launching the inaugural IPLSOCCER tournament which will take place at Pride Park, Derby, on May 8 2022. Recent data from the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) reveals that there are only 115 British South Asian background players out of almost 15,000 players in academy and professional football, equating to less than half of one per cent of total professional footballers. The IPLSOCCER tournament, the UK’s first nationwide British Asian football tournament, will feature teams from London, Derby, Birmingham and Leicester, with players selected through regional trials and networks in a bid to give British Asians a chance to showcase their
talents. Each team will have a former Premier
League star playing for them, including former Arsenal and Liverpool winger
Jermaine Pennant; former Liverpool and Leicester City striker Emile Heskey; former Aston Villa winger Lee Hendrie and former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor. Michael Owen said: “Sport is one of the few institutions that can break down barriers and stereotypes but despite the diversity in the current England squad, no player of South Asian origin has won a senior England cap in over 146 years. “British South Asians continue to be under-represented in professional football. Improving those statistics and providing fully inclusive opportunities for all are at the core of the IPLSOCCER programme.” Professional scouts are being invited to the tournament from a number of professional clubs Former Newcastle and Cardiff City striker and IPLSOCCER ambassador Michael Chopra, whose father is of Indian descent, said: “It is a pleasure to collaborate with the IPLSOCCER initiative. So much needs to be done to bring more young British Asian players to the scene. I believe that IPLSOCCER has a strong base, and moving forward we shall hopefully see many more UK Cities with their own IPLSOCCER teams
competing annually.” There are plans to expand the event in 2023 to include teams from more regions and include a women’s tournament to reflect the increasing importance and popularity of the women’s game. Sanjay Bhandari, Chair of Kick it Out, commented: “British South Asians have found success across many industries including sport. But the visible lack of British South Asians on the pitch is the biggest anomaly in English football. “It is an embarrassing problem but also an enormous opportunity that we can no longer ignore. We must address it collectively. “We welcome the efforts of the IPLSOCCER tournament, and Michael Owen, in providing a showcase for talented footballers from the British South Asian community, and look forward to joining them at Pride Park.” IPLSOCCER will also be making a donation to Khalsa Aid, an international NGO with the aim to provide humanitarian aid in disaster areas and civil conflict zones around the world.
BANGLADESH DEFEATED SOUTH AFRICA FOR THE FIRST TIME IN ODI DECIDER
A nine-wicket victory over South Africa in the third and final one-day international at Centurion gave Bangladesh their first series victory in the country, in any format. Tamim Iqbal scored 87 not out from 82 balls as the Tigers defeated South Africa by five wickets at SuperSport Park. Taskin Ahmed claimed a five-wicket haul to help the Tigers reach their target of 154 with 141 balls left in the game. Bangladesh had never won in South Africa before their 38-run win in the ODI series opener at Centurion. With South Africa removed in 37 overs and the visitors closing up the series victory in 27 overs of the chase, it was the visitors’ second triumph at SuperSport Park in less than a week. The teams will now meet in a two-Test series, with the first match taking place at Kingsmead in Durban on March 31 and the second match taking place at St George’s Park in Port Elizabeth on April 8 (all times local).
Photo credit: UNB From 46-0 in the second One-Day International in Johannesburg to 46-0 in the
series decider, South Africa collapsed after Quinton de Kock (12) was caught by
Mehidy Hasan at long-off. South Africa lost all ten of their wickets for 108 runs
from that moment. The Proteas were reduced to 83-5 as Temba Bavuma (2) and Rassie van der Dussen (4) were both out cheaply, and both Kyle Verreyne (9) and top-scorer Janneman Malan (39) were taken out by Taskin. Afterwards, Taskin dismissed David Miller (16), Dwaine Pretorius (9) and Kagiso Rabada (9), with Keshav Maharaj (28), who had hit 28 runs, being the final man to be run out by Tamim. Tamim then erupted with the bat, smashing 14 boundaries in 10 overs, including four in five deliveries off Kagiso Rabada in the 10th over, to take the match. For the second wicket, he put up 127 runs in 21 overs with Litton Das (48 off 57) and Shakib Al Hasan (18no off 20), with Shakib’s boundary off Rabada clinching the win.