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ello readers, DARPAN teams wishes each one of you Happy Holidays. May this beautiful season bring you joy and laughter.

Celebrating the holiday season, this issue is filled with interesting articles to prepare you for the coming month and the year ahead. The interesting ideas from our Holiday Gift Guide will help you get the perfect present for your family or friends. Our activities feature focuses on some of the fun and exciting events happening in and around town during winter. Bundle up, grab your loved ones and get ready for some holiday fun. Winter is also about being safe. Learn tips from experts on ways to prepare your vehicle for the frigid conditions.

Our cover story is a famous actor whose hotness will make the chilly days go away. Adding warmth and motivation to the season is none other than B-Town’s Greek God Hrithik Roshan. In an exclusive conversation with DARPAN, the superstar shares with us his passion for fitness and promoting wellness, and his advice to take challenges head-on and overcome obstacles.

This issue also features the successful DARPAN’s Extraordinary Achievement Awards night which took place in September. Get a glimpse of the event through exclusive pictures and details and experience the grand affair yourself. Talking about exclusive details, read our article on Bo Horvat, the 20-year-old Canucks player who lit up the scoreboard and his labouring team at the end of last season of NHL. He talks about his experience in the NHL, the pressure of performing well, and dealing with the expectations of his team and fans.

I hope you enjoy our last issue of this year. Look forward to more exciting and informative issues in the next. We would like to know your comments, suggestions and thoughts. Please send your feedback to editor@darpanmagazine.com or leave a message on our social media sites.

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

PUBLISHERS

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Gurvinder S. Hundal Ramneek S. Dhillon

Ashley Stephens

EDITOR Petrina D'Souza

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Joseph A. Federico Nerissa Jawanda Nick Hilden Shanel Khaliq Shweta Kulkarni

DARPAN Magazine is published by DARPAN PUBLICATION LTD. DARPAN is a bimonthly magazine. Any reproduction of the magazine, editorial content, images or advertisement cannot be reproduced or reprinted in any form, without prior written permission of the Publishers. The views expressed by the writers in this publication are not necessarily the views of the Publishers. The Publishers assume no responsibility for errors or omissions. Copyright 2015 DARPAN Publication Ltd. All rights reserved. Publications sales agreement no. 41116014 PHOTOGRAPHY AAA Video A Master Media (Payal Video) Amrit Photography Chandra Bodalia

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26

CONTENTS

COVER

2015 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

STORY

94

IN EVERY ISSUE

ENTERTAINMENT

08 READERS REACTION

BUSINESS PROFILES

10 DARPAN’S 10

74 Sapphire Bistro

Rajiv Kumar Chander

136 BOLLYWOOD Bollywood Previews

44

138 HOLLYWOOD

76 MOD Style Design and Décor

SPOTLIGHTS 18 Diljott 20 Alvin Prasad 24 Ekam Nagra

104

Oscars: The Master Squad

142 GLOBAL INDIANS Dr. Simi Rao

LIFESTYLE

144 HOROSCOPE

70 SALUTES

Service Before Profit: Humanity Hospital

78 RECIPES Vivek Singh

146 CANADIAN IMMIGRANTS

82 FASHION PAGES

Meet the Patel Family

88 BEAUTY

The Gift of Beauty

92 STYLE

A Wintry Mix of Colour

94 HEALTH

ABC of Hepatitis

100

100 FITNESS

6 Things you Need for At-Home Fitness

36

102 TECH

Gadget Trends

104 HOME

What's Trending?

108 WEDDING

136

Imraj and Sonia

112 ACTIVITIES

Vancouver Holiday Guide

FEATURES

116 TRAVEL

Punta Cana: Paradise Awaits

12 SPORTS

Canucks: Bo Horvat

36 SPECIAL FEATURE Liberal Kind of Canada

44 FEATURE

‘Tis the Season of Presents

12

48 EXPERTS SPEAK When ICBC Says No!

50 SPECIAL FEATURE An Extraordinary Night: DARPAN Awards 2015

132 EXCLUSIVE

From Actor to Producer: Rajat Bedi

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AUTO 120 Lincoln MKX 122 Mazda MX-5 Miata 124 FEATURE

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s e r d ea Reactions LETTER OF THE MONTH Varun Dhawan Exclusive

I really enjoyed reading the interview of Varun Dhawan because Varun shares a lot of knowledge about what it’s like being in the film industry. Also, he shared how hard work pays off and there’s no need to compete with others because there is room for everyone here in this world. - Manisha Virk, Surrey

WRITE TO US! We want to hear your thoughts about this issue!

You can Email us at:

editor@darpanmagazine.com or leave us a message on our social media:

@darpanmagazine, #darpanmagazine

Re: Manisha, it’s great that you enjoyed the article featuring Varun Dhawan. The interview displays his hard working and down-to-earth nature. He is definitely an actor to watch out for. – Editor

New on the job Temper tantrums in kids Thank you so much for the article on ‘Handling Temper Tantrums in Kids’. I am a mother of two and at times I face a situation where I have to give in to the demands of my kids. The article really helped me with ways to deal with my children in a simple and non-threatening way. - Sonam Chopra, Richmond

Re: Hello Sonam, I am happy that the article is helping you understand your kids better and handle their tantrums. Kids can be difficult at times, but showering them with lots of love and attention, while teaching them the correct values, can help you share a great relationship with them. – Editor Serving Surrey & Delta

Wedding Stories I love to read the wedding stories in every issue. The column filled with romance and beautiful memories and with pictures of the couple just make it a good article. Keep up the good work DARPAN! - Roshani Nair, Vancouver

Re: Thank you Roshani for sharing your thoughts with us. The wedding bridal couples can pictures with the and our readers – Editor

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Re : Hey Kishore, the first day at work can be difficult as you are totally clueless about what to do and say. I am glad that the article is useful. All the best with the job search. Readers looking to subscribe can visit our website – www.darpanmagazine.com – Editor

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Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

9

1 Why did you decide to get into Foreign Service?

7 How has your journey been so far in the Foreign Service?

I have been fortunate to have lived in different parts of India as my father, who was a government official, had a transferable job. The growing up years spent in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Assam, Meghalaya and Punjab gave me an exposure to the wonderful diversity that exists in India and more importantly, the respect and tolerance that we Indians have for different cultures, religions and languages. This experience no doubt prepared me for the life of a diplomat in an even richer and more diverse world. After doing my History (Honours) and Law from Panjab University, Chandigarh, I fulfilled my cherished objective of joining the Indian Foreign Service in 1983.

For my wife Dr. Shalini, daughter Shireen, and myself, it has been a fascinating journey over the years through many lands that has now brought us to the shores of Vancouver. We witnessed many countries and societies in transition as we did during my last posting in Ukraine and earlier in Nepal. My first posting was in the Soviet Union that no longer exists!

8 What are the things you like best and worst about your job?

2 How did you feel when you became the Consul General of India in Vancouver?

The feeling of joy when you get what you want!

The feeling of anticipation that one would be part of a large Indian community, the largest of all places I have served in, and of pride in the fact that it has achieved so much and integrated itself in a manner that has enriched the socio-economic fabric of Western Canada.

Rajiv Kumar Chander CONSUL GENERAL OF INDIA, VANCOUVER

3 How has your experience been so far as part of the Vancouver consulate?

Ambassador Rajiv Kumar Chander is the new Consul

It’s been a wonderful couple of months that I have spent here in one of the world’s most lively cities. I am also told that the weather has been exceptionally kind this year for which I am grateful. One has been touched by the warm reception accorded to me and my family by the community.

General of India in Vancouver, who took charge in August, 2015. He joined the Indian Foreign Service in 1983 after obtaining degrees in History and Law. His first assignment abroad was at the Embassy of India, Moscow. Before being posted in Vancouver, Ambassador Chander was appointed as Ambassador of India to Ukraine from July 2011 to July 2015. As the

4 What plans do you have for the growth of the

consulate in Vancouver?

Consul General of India in Vancouver, he shares that he

Along with my colleagues from the Consulate, I had an informal get-together with several Indian associations as well as those promoting IndoCanadian business relations. These interactions gave me an idea of the range of activities that the community is engaged in and I do hope to be able to reach out to others in the B.C. area as well as in other provinces of Western Canada in the coming days. The Consulate has been constantly trying to improve its consular services and this would be a continuing endeavour on our part. We have also held consular camps in different parts of our consular jurisdiction. Ideally, we would like to have more public space available at the Consulate that would facilitate greater interaction with the community.

has been touched by the warm reception accorded to

5 What is the biggest strength of Indians living here?

The community has numerous achievers who have distinguished themselves in different fields, be it arts, science or business. The community has maintained strong ties with India and contributed immensely to bringing our countries closer together. As India is poised to grow economically and modernize itself rapidly, I am sure that the skills, resources

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Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

The one abiding impression that we have is of the deep interest and appreciation of India`s culture and philosophy, and recognition of and indeed respect for our credentials as the world’s largest democracy. Interestingly, in Eastern Europe and Central Asia where I have had several occasions to visit or serve in, Bollywood or Indian films have woven such an emotional bond with India that it has to be seen to be believed.

The fact that one had to leave behind such wonderful friends after every three to four years was particularly uprooting, but thanks to the wonderful world of the social media we now continue to inhabit the same social space and feel connected.

him and his family by the community, and talks about his plans for the Indian community here.

and capabilities of the community can play a positive role in India’s march forward. The ‘Make In India’ initiative, Clean Ganga campaign and Smart Cities project come readily to mind.

6 What plans do you have for Indians in Vancouver?

I know about the various cultural events and other festivities that are regularly organized by the numerous cultural and other associations in Vancouver. It would be great if there is one event annually where all can come together to showcase their talent for everyone to appreciate, including their Canadian friends. Sporting events can be exciting opportunities to come together and spend some time, besides staying healthy. Obviously, I do not have a monopoly on ideas and we would be more than happy to get suggestions from the community associations and interested individuals.

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9 What is your most memorable moment in the Service?

The security situation in Ukraine, where I was posted as Ambassador, deteriorated in the beginning of 2014. A war-like situation was developing in eastern Ukraine where some 1,000 Indian students and a few other Indian citizens were located. On instructions of the Government of India, the Embassy was able to safely evacuate them to the capital Kyiv at short notice and just in the nick of time. The local Indian community joined hands with the Embassy to ensure that the 1,000 mostly young Indians were well-cared for during their stay in Kyiv before proceeding to India. The fact that the evacuation proceeded smoothly and no one was injured was a matter of satisfaction to all those involved in the process.

10

Indo-Canadian relations.

Our bilateral relations have never looked healthier than after the very successful visit of the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India to Canada in April this year, which included a schedule for him in Vancouver as well. Several agreements were signed, including one relating to the supply of uranium from Saskatchewan to India. The introduction of the Electronic Tourist Visa for Canadian citizens was announced during the visit.

There have been several delegations from India to this part of Canada after April 2015 that attests to the positive momentum imparted by the visit.

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DARPAN SPORTS

B O HOR VAT

Ready Ready to to pRove pRove that that age age isn’t isn’t an an issue issue

OR VAT

BY Ashley Stephens

T Age: 20 Height: 6’0” Weight: 206 Birthday: April 5, 1995 Born: London, Ontario Position: Centre Shoots: Left Acquired: Selected 9th overall in the 1st round of the 2013 NHL Entry Draft by the Vancouver Canucks

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he Vancouver Canucks opened the 2015-2016 NHL season this past October to less fanfare than they’ve experienced in previous years. With tough playoff losses, goaltender conflicts, and coaching changes behind them, the Canucks are a team focused on their game without the weight of distractions tripping them up. The talk of the town this year seems to be their roster, and more notably, the age and ability of the roster they’ve been working to develop.

Age became an issue as the Canucks ended their last season in April. Was the team too old?

Were they putting too much

trust in young talent? While it’s too early to say how the prospects will play, it’s become quite clear that the younger players have brought new life to a team in need of a lift.

On the eve of the first anniversary of his first NHL game, DARPAN spoke with Bo Horvat, the 20-year-old centre who lit up the scoreboard and his labouring team at the end of last season. He finished his first year in the pros by surprising many and looking much like the Canucks needed him to be – sharp, poised and, most importantly, putting up points. Spoken like someone with much more experience

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Photo Credit: Jeff Vinnick / Vancouver Canucks

SPECIAL FEATURE

“Last year was pretty stressful, not knowing whether or not you’re going to make the team and then getting sent back down to junior but I think this year comes with pressure, too.

You had such a great season last year, you should be that much better this year – the fans and the coaching staff and everybody watching has those expectations. It’s tough to live up to those but I think I’m doing a good job of it so far.”

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Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

than his stats show, Horvat spoke about his success as a rookie, his confidence as a sophomore and what a difference a year can make.

Ranked 15th among North American skaters by the NHL Central Scouting Bureau ahead of the 2013 NHL Entry Draft, Horvat was selected 9th overall by the Canucks who traded well-liked goaltender Cory Schneider for their pick.

A two-way forward who could contribute both offensively and defensively, the Canucks had selected a player who could both block shots and win face-offs.

In his second training camp with the Canucks in 2014, Horvat was hit during a pre-season game versus the Edmonton Oilers, suffering a shoulder injury that saw him sent down to Vancouver’s American Hockey League affiliate, the Utica Comets. Thankfully for Bo and the Canucks, it wasn’t long before he was back in the big league and suiting up for his professional league debut.

DARPAN

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“It’s been awesome so far,” Horvat said of his experience in the NHL. “Obviously, it’s been my dream ever since I was a little kid, to play in the NHL, and finally my dream became a reality last year.”

Horvat’s dream came true as he skated in 68 NHL games and finished his rookie year with 25 regular season points. “I thought I had a pretty good year, the team had a good year. It was fun being in the playoffs,” he says, referring to the Canucks first-round loss to the Calgary Flames.

Despite the early exit, Horvat had a team leading four points in the six-game run.

“Now that I’m in my second year, I’m definitely a lot more comfortable,” he says.

“Now I’m seeing young guys come in, like Jared [McCann] and Jake [Virtanen] and Ben [Hutton]. It’s been a pretty humbling experience.”

So has the pressure changed for Horvat?

With his rookie season come and gone, has the pressure to perform subsided?

Or does it grow alongside his success?

“I think a little bit of both,” Horvat admits. “Obviously, last year was pretty stressful, not knowing whether or not you’re going to make the team and then getting sent back down to junior but I think this year comes with pressure, too.”

“You had such a great season last year, you should be that much better this year – the fans and the coaching staff and everybody watching has those expectations,” he says. “It’s tough to live up to those but I think I’m doing a good job of it so far.”

And so far, he’d be right. Despite a slower start to the season than anticipated, he’s playing his game well by working hard to win while shouldering the responsibility to lead his team both on and off the ice.

And for someone still so new to the big leagues – someone just a young 20 years old – his off-ice demeanour is making as much of an impression as his on-ice play. Horvat’s maturity, confidence and leadership have been making headlines since training camp began.

If it seems he’s adjusted well to the pressure, it’s because it’s not all that new to him.

“I’ve dealt with that kind of pressure all my life, honestly,” Horvat shares, referencing the three seasons he spent playing for the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League. “They treat it like a

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Ranked 15th among North American skaters by the NHL Central Scouting Bureau ahead of the 2013 NHL Entry Draft, Bo Horvat was selected 9th overall by the Canucks who traded well-liked goaltender Cory Schneider for their pick.

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pro organization, so I kind of got used to it a little bit already. Being a leader there and coming in to this year where it’s a huge hockey city and everyone’s pretty passionate about the Canucks – you just try to put it to the side a little bit, not think about it too much, and just go play your game.�

With plenty of games yet to play and prove himself, Horvat’s expectations are just as high as all those who watch, cheer and scrutinize, but his goals are those of a true team player. “You obviously want to put up some points, you want to contribute offensively but the bottom line is as long as your team is winning hockey games, that’s all that matters,� he says. “For me, I just want to do whatever I can to help the team win and eventually get to the playoffs.�

Vancouver may be the place where Horvat’s dream came true but he has other reasons to love the city that gave him his start. “It’s an unbelievable city,� he says. “It’s one of my favourites I’ve been to. I love living here. It’s nice and quiet where I am. The city’s not too busy, I don’t find, compared to Toronto or close to there. To have that peace and quiet, it’s easy to get around and obviously the sights – you can’t complain about the mountains and everything. Yeah,� he says with conviction and as if he couldn’t be convinced otherwise, “I love it here.�

Whether it’s fighting for a spot on the second line or waiting for the chance to lead the third line to the net, Horvat is ready. His confidence and comfort combined with his eagerness and ability are a welcomed addition to the team – no matter how old he or his teammates may be.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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DARPAN SPOTLIGHT

She shot to fame after being featured in Diljit Dosanjh’s s popular music video ‘Patiala Peg’. The song, which is one of the biggest hits of Punjabi cinema, has proven to be a lucky charm for Diljott.

BY SHANEL KHALIQ

y

oung actress Diljott is the newest member of Punjab’s film industry.

She shot to fame after being featured in Diljit Dosanjh’s s popular music video ‘Patiala Peg’. The song, which is one of the biggest hits of Punjabi cinema, has proven to be a lucky charm for Diljott.

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Diljott was shooting for her upcoming Punjabi film, Yaar Annmulle 2, when she was offered a role in the music video. “I got a call from director Arvinder Khaira asking me if I could be a part of this song.

That was a great moment, and the very next day, I was on the set shooting for it,” she recalls.

The young starlet credits the music video to have given her a breakthrough into the entertainment industry. “‘Patiala Peg’ has certainly given me a boost and my performance opposite Diljit Dosanjh has hugely been appreciated,” says Diljott, adding that working with Dosanjh has been a dream cum true. “He is an extremely fine artist and a very nice person. His simplicity and originality are remarkable.

You get to learn so much while you are working with him.”

Coming back to Yaar Annmulle 2, Diljott will play the character of a very meaningful and beautiful girl named Sabar in the film. “Audience will love the different shades of my role, and the twists and turns it brings in the story,” she adds, revealing that a few other Hindi and Punjabi projects are in the pipeline as well.

For Diljott, acting and dance has been her passion from a very young age. She made sure that she was a part of acting and dance performances throughout school and college, and so the decision to take it up professionally also followed through. She is trained in kathak, folk and western dance. She also attended Actor Prepares – an acting school in Mumbai.

Despite her inclination towards the arts, Diljott was

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Her parent’s support has been one of the biggest factors behind her success. “They have been my guide, my philosophers, and moral support in every phase of life. My parents always believed that I should follow my heart and then give it my best. They are really ecstatic whenever they watch my work and performance and feel proud of my achievements,” Diljott shares. also outstanding in academics. She has a Bachelors degree in Psychology and a Masters in Human Rights from Panjab University, Chandigarh, with a University gold medal in both.

Diljott has amassed a huge fan following in a short span of time through her work.

Her parent’s (who are doctors) support has been one of the biggest factors behind her success. “They have been my guide, my philosophers, and moral support in every phase of life. My parents always believed that I should follow my heart and then give it my best. They are really ecstatic whenever they watch my work and performance and feel proud of my achievements,” she shares.

At heart, Diljott is a philanthropist. She believes in giving back to the community.

“I am associated with the NGO Prabh Aasra (Home for Destitute) and have been involved in various affairs of the NGO. I am a member of NGO ArriveSafe, which works for road safety. I feel that Waheguru has bestowed us with many bounties of life and we must involve ourselves in philanthropic activities and give happiness to others.”

On her recent visit to Vancouver, she got a chance to perform in a number of shows and received a good response for it. “Vancouver is simply beautiful and coming to Vancouver is like home away from home.” In conclusion, she says, “I am lucky that my work is getting appreciated far and wide. It’s a very fulfilling and blissful journey.”

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DARPAN SPOTLIGHT

“At the end of the day, where the child can provide that little bit of joy in their

alvin pRasad ConneCting soles to spoRts Every Single Sole works towards collecting and distributing sporting equipment to children in various parts of the globe.

BY GARIMA GOSWAMI

PHOTO: Every single sole

a

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lvin Prasad is on a mission to secure a pair of soles and sporting equipment to kids in the neglected areas of the world. With his organization, Every Single Sole, Prasad and his team have already concluded a project in the Fiji Islands, and are all set to take their operations to South Africa and India. “At the end of the day, where the child resides has no significance to us. If we can provide that little bit of joy in their lives, that’s all we’re concerned with,” Prasad explains as I ask him what geographic ventures Every Single Sole has on board.

Presently employed in the Electrical Engineering sector, Prasad says he was NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015

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born in Canada in a massive Fijian family and grew up with traditional values and ideals that come with the people of the islands.

What sprouted the idea of Every Single

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Sole was Prasad’s trips to the developing and underdeveloped nations. “I had noticed that the boys/girls of these areas were out playing the beautiful game but didn’t quite have the required equipment needed to succeed at it,” he recalls.

After discussing ideas and execution plans with his peers and colleagues in the spring of 2014, Prasad proudly mentions that by summer time the team had amassed enough material for their first drop-off in Fiji.

In the fall of 2014, Every Single Sole was able to outfit 100 school kids in the rural parts of the Fiji Islands. “By the end of it (drop-off) most [children] had jerseys, boots, shin pads,

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goalie gloves and bags of balls!” Prasad says.

“All because of the kind donations made locally.”

Sports, which is globally credited as an element binding diverse communities and ethnicities together, with the assistance of individuals such as Alvin Prasad is being able to support these kids better. It conjugates traits of character building, social interaction, and physiological and psychological well-being of the child, regardless of his/her place of residence. “Playing the game of football is one of the greatest joys.

It brings kids together and makes them realize that regardless of their social class, they too can flourish. Sometimes, we in developed areas forget just how much we are given. It only made sense for me to try and help kids in underdeveloped regions feel the same joys as our kids here, by simply offering proper soccer shoes for their feet,” Prasad observes.

Following their successful stint in Fiji, Prasad and his team are heading to Pretoria, South Africa, this fall. “There we’ll be providing the same sort of equipment to a region where 98% of the kids come from disadvantaged areas. So we’re really thrilled to be able to help these kids.”

In 2016, Every Single Sole will pin their third project in India, and this Prasad says, is expected to be their most successful drop-off mission. The organization is already in talks with groups in India who are equally excited about the proposal.

“Hopefully we as a community can really come together and work to put smiles on the faces of those kids back in a region that really needs it.”

Prasad and his team cite the generous support of local communities throughout British Columbia for the collection of valuable sporting equipment. With their expanding projects abroad and on the field, Every Single Sole is setting a model of inspiration. In the coming years, the team plans to carry out more of such drop-offs in regions throughout the world with the hope that they can build a connection with a variety of nations needing assistance.

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DARPAN SPOTLIGHT

three viral articles in the first month.

“People loved what I was talking about on the website. I started getting e-mails everyday asking for training advice and tips. Then I started training kids at local gyms and doing camps. Next thing you know we have a basketball academy under the Ball Don’t Stop name.”

Nagra finds continued satisfaction from training others. He enjoys helping young kids improve their skills and athleticism, “I love working with kids that want to get better. The greatest thing is seeing a young kid smiling and having fun at a training session or camp,” he adds.

The young entrepreneur believes that hard work and consistency have helped make BDS a success.

BY NERISSA JAWANDA He explains that the basketball media outlet is reliable, respectable and that, “any NBA player we’ve interviewed or worked with on a project in the past few years has always told us they get a very authentic vibe from us.”

Nagra is very humbled by the positive response to BDS. “It’s been amazing, within two years we’re sitting at a following of over 100,000 fans on social media… players and fans love our content.”

So which has been Nagra’s most memorable moment over the course of BDS’s rise? Being able to interview his favourite player, Allen Iverson, just two months after starting the website, he answers right away. “He was my favourite player growing up and he’s one of the hardest guys to actually get a conversation or video interview Nagra’s interest in basketball about the sport and turn it into with; so it was a huge moment was generated at a young age, something productive. At the time, for me.”

“When I was three or four years he had also developed a disliking Looking at his success, Nagra old I used to sit on my sundeck towards mainstream media’s states that one of his biggest and watch my older neighbours reporting of basketball, leading him blessings is that “God has allowed play basketball for hours. I was to start the website. “I started the me to do all the things I have a fascinated by the game. My website and got on social media. strong love and passion for as a parents got me a hoop when I started writing and giving my living… I love everything about I was six and I played on it for opinion on everything I knew it. This is pretty much all I ever hours and hours everyday.” about basketball, from popular wanted to do.” In conclusion, he Though his love of playing the topics in the NBA to training tips,” encourages others to do what they game on a daily basis began to says Nagra. love, be go-getters and work their dwindle in the summer of 2013, The basketball lover designed hardest to take their passion as he wanted to use his knowledge the website on his own and had far as they can.

EKAM NAGRA

FoR the love oF BasketBall

Young entrepreneur Ekam Nagra, founder of Ball Don’t Stop, talks about his love for basketball and the success he has got from the sport.

PHOTO: Ball Don't Stop, Ekam Nagra

a

t just 22 years old, Ekam Nagra is already making a name for himself. He is the head of Ball Don’t Stop (BDS), a global basketball media and lifestyle company. Nagra has been able to cultivate the BDS brand, making it a top source for basketball news. Beyond the company, he is also heavily involved in training top basketball players in British Columbia, as well as pro basketball players in the United States.

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No AMOUNT OF failure could take my spirit away.

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B O L LY W O O D S G R E E K G O D

HRITHIK

BY P etr i n a D S o u z a DARPAN took it upon itself to turn the winter dullness into excitement – and yes we found a solution – a sizzling one in fact. Adding warmth and motivation to the season is none other than B-Town’s Greek God Hrithik Roshan – a talented actor, incredible dancer, style icon, and one of the fittest actors of the Indian film industry. In an exclusive conversation with DARPAN, the superstar, who is also a successful entrepreneur, shares with us his passion for fitness and promoting wellness, and his advice to take challenges head-on and overcome obstacles.

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ith winter settling in, the dark and gloomy days need some spark to get you going. While fitness may be a factor that can energize you, the cold and wet days may simply discourage you to take initiative. DARPAN took it upon itself to turn this dullness into excitement – and yes we found a solution – a sizzling one in fact. We bring to you that light and freshness through an actor who is known for his good looks, acting skills and not to forget, his hot body. Adding warmth and motivation to the season is none other than B-Town’s Greek God Hrithik Roshan – a talented actor, incredible dancer, style icon, and one of the fittest actors of the Indian film industry. Hrithik’s never-give-up attitude had made him one of the top actors of Bollywood. In an exclusive conversation with DARPAN, the superstar, who is also a successful entrepreneur, shares with us his passion for fitness and promoting wellness, and his advice to take challenges head-on and overcome obstacles.

Hrithik has starred in more than 30 films till date, most of which are blockbusters.

Some of his best films – his debut Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai (2000), Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham..(2001), Koi... Mil Gaya (2003), Krrish (2006), Dhoom 2 (2006), Jodhaa Akbar (2008), Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011), Agneepath (2012), among many others. His role in each film has been different and acclaimed, adding to the success of the movie. “I choose films which can bring a smile on people’s faces,” expresses the actor, who is one of the highest paid actors of the entertainment industry in Mumbai.

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COVER STORY

EXCLUSIVE When I choose my scripts, I look at them as a platform to inspire people through the strength and courage of the characters I play. My idea is to be able to create an experience for the audience.

Being from a Bollywood family (Hrithik’s father is Rakesh Roshan, a wellknown producer, director and former actor), one would assume that Hrithik’s journey has been a smooth ride. But, that wasn’t the case; the actor had his share of obstacles and failures. In fact, his brave acceptance of struggle and fear, and determination of not giving up has reached him to the top. “As an eight-yearold, I did not imagine that I would be where I am today,” he shares, “I believe in the fact that, no amount of failure could take my spirit away. I have accepted challenges head-on and overcome the biggest obstacles.”

Yet, the light-eyed star has no complains and has enjoyed every moment of being a part of films and the industry. “It has been an amazing journey!” says he, “As an actor when I choose my scripts, I look at them as a platform to inspire people through the strength and courage of the characters I play.

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COVER STORY

EXCLUSIVE

My idea is to be able to create an experience for the audience because that is your real wealth, not money or fame.”

Hrithik is currently working on his upcoming film Mohenjo Daro. The epic adventure-love story, directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, is set in the ancient city of Mohenjo-daro in the era of the Indus Valley civilisation that dates back to 2,600 BC. It is slated for an August 2016 release.

This is Hrithik’s second film with Gowariker.

They worked together in the epic historical drama film Jodhaa Akbar which centred on the romance between the Mughal Emperor Akbar and the Princess Jodhabai. The film was declared a super hit by Box Office India.

Moving on to his personal life, the talented Hrithik Roshan is an achiever in some many different ways – be it through his acting, style, attitude, good looks, dancing skill or admirable physique. Let’s start with his sense of style.

Hrithik believes style should be “easy going, effortless and comfortable”. “If you believe what you wear is the best thing in the world, you will look stylish no matter what. True confidence

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“I want to spread the belief that it is possible to look adversity in the face and emerge victorious by overcoming it. For me HRX is not just a brand, it’s a service, a mission, an enabler.” and style comes from the way you live,” the handsome hunk points out.

He personally likes to keep his outfits simple and usually likes to wear a lot of active wear. So how does the most stylish actor of Bollywood deal with the pressure of always looking good? “The best way to do so is be truly happy and overcome your fears and failures. If you are high with confidence, the pressure of dressing up fashionably becomes effortless,” answers Hrithik, who won International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Style Icon Award in 2009.

Coming back to his admirable physique, Hrithik is one of the fittest actors of Bollywood – his chiseled body being a subject of envy among men and never failing to make women drool. This is a result of his love and passion towards fitness. “I want people to understand that physical fitness and mental wellbeing are the most important aspects of our lives; and both go hand in hand,” emphasizes the hot actor. He hopes to inspire people to take responsibility and control of their health, and educate them on how they can manifest the changes they want in life.

“Replace the aggressive, perfectionist image that is out there about exercise and body image with a more realistic, attainable and positive one,” he advices fitness lovers.

The hardworking hero is a busy man.

When not working on films, working out,

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or honing his dancing skills, he puts the entrepreneur mode on. Hrithik owns the lifestyle and fitness brand HRX – the first celebrity brand owned by him. HRX is the joint venture between Hrithik and celebrity management company, Exceed Entertainment.

The journey of HRX started five years back, over a conversation on how individuals constantly face obstacles in their life and keep pushing themselves to overcome them.

“Everyone including me has been through difficulties, anxieties and fears in life. However I always believe that success comes to those who rise above them and understand how to deal with it,” explains the HRX owner. This thought of reaching and impacting a billion people and inspiring them took life through a fitness and lifestyle brand HRX which was launched in 2013 with apparel (active wear and casual wear).

The entrepreneur-actor is personally involved in the design and product creatives of HRX. The collection reflects flexibility and movement, the two aspects very important to Hrithik in the clothes he wears. Through his brand, Hrithik wishes to create a platform to inspire, to share with the world and give back what he has learnt through the journey. “I want to spread the belief that it is possible to look adversity in the face and emerge victorious by overcoming it. For me HRX is not just a brand, it’s a service, a mission, an enabler,” asserts the fitness icon.

With a tagline of ‘Push Your Extreme’, HRX’s current product portfolio includes footwear, accessories and deodorants. The celebrity brand

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was associated with the mountain bike race MTB Himalaya Challenge; is a co-sponsor of the Indian Super League franchise FC Pune City; and is planning a property in the television space. Recently, the brand has taken on the mantle of supporting India’s 4 Paralympians in their endeavour to go for gold at the 2016 Paralympics. “I hope to create HRX as a ubiquitous gigantic omnipresent symbol of strength and power for people to inspire them to ‘want’ to be the best version of themselves,” says Hrithik passionately.

One of the recent initiatives of HRX is a new show on Discovery known as HRX Heroes with Hrithik Roshan. Presented by the actor himself, the show will present the real life stories of men and women from across India who did not give up on their dreams and emerged as Heroes. “Real heroes are people that fight the odds and keep pushing themselves to greater heights every day. This series is a salute to the nine Real Heroes who overcame extreme difficulties, refused to give up and are an inspiration for the rest of the world,” explains Hrithik.

So how was his experience hosting the TV show? “It was a wonderful experience. The series is deeply motivational and it was one of the major reasons of me hosting such an inspirational one. It gave me immense satisfaction to reach out to the world and recite them the stories of nine common individuals who fought against all the odds and emerged as true winners,” says Hrithik, revealing that he will also host season two of HRX Heroes.

Hrithik can definitely be given the title of an all-in-one star. Why? The good looking actor is an amazing dancer and a style icon; his wellmaintained physique is a sign of his dedication towards fitness; and his acting skills have made him one of the best actors of the film industry.

If that isn’t reason enough, he has also tried his hand at singing and got a good response for it; featured in a popular music video; and is the owner of a successful fitness and casual wear brand. So, isn’t he rightfully the all-in-one star of Bollywood?

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Offer available until December 31, 2015, to residential customers who have not subscribed to TELUS TV or Internet in the past 90 days. Minimum system requirements apply. Final eligibility for the services will be determined by a TELUS representative. TELUS reserves the right to modify channel lineups and packaging, and regular pricing without notice. Cannot be combined with other offers. The Essentials is required for all Optik TV subscriptions. Offer not available with TELUS Internet 6. HDTV-input-equipped television required to watch HD. †A retail value of $689, based on the manufacturer’s suggested retail price, plus a 2 year extended warranty, provincial government eco fees and shipping. TELUS reserves the right to substitute an equivalent or better product without notice. A cancellation fee applies for early termination of the service agreement and will be the value of the promotional gift received in return for your term commitment, multiplied by the number of months remaining in the term (with a partial month counting as a full month), divided by the total number of months in the term, plus applicable taxes. TELUS, the TELUS logo, Optik, Optik TV, NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2015 the future is friendly and telus.com are trademarks of TELUS Corporation, used under licence. Samsung and the Samsung logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Samsung Canada. All other trademarks are the property of TM their respective owners. © /2015 TELUS.

DARPAN

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

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SPECIAL FEATURE

BY Brandon Kostinuk

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Trudeau’s Liberals swung into a 54 percent majority in the House, transforming the previously frail 34-member House caucus into governing party of Canada.

F

ollowing his party’s sweeping majority, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, standing in front of a boisterous crowd in Montreal, opened up and declared, “Sunny ways, my friends, sunny ways. This is what positive politics can do.”

Canada has been under a Stephen Harper-led Conservative administration for close to 10 years. They steered the country through the financial crisis in 2007-08, certainly bolstered by the strong price in oil that hit highs of $147 a barrel in 2008.

The Conservatives also strengthened our country’s borders and security capabilities, dismantled or affected a lot via policy initiatives, scrapping the longgun registry and the national child care program put together in 2006.

They also reduced the goods and services tax from seven to five per cent, changed the relationship between the media and government into something often farcical, and demonstrated a willingness to flout Parliamentary ethics and etiquette.

Harper was charged with contempt of

Parliament in 2011 and utilized omnibus legislation on more than a handful of occasions to affect hundreds of laws on the environment, crime, economy and more, effectively stamping their brand of politics across the country.

But, this election, change was in the air.

A sea of red The Liberal Party of Canada ran on a platform of progressive change. They asked voters: “What does real change mean to you?”

Beneath three general rubrics of investment, the middle class and transparency, the Liberals scooped up 184 ridings when the polls closed on October 19. Trudeau’s Liberals swung into a 54 percent majority in the House, transforming the previously frail 34-member House caucus into governing party of Canada.

The 42nd general election and its politics propelled 17 million to turn up and vote, which is about 68 percent of the eligible vote. This was the highest

DARPAN

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Hon. Jody Wilson-Raybould

not be expected to tote the party line,” said Sarai, adding, he plans on a resultsoriented approach to politics, not simply championing initiatives for the sake of the party.

Sarai also conveyed his personal

Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada I am incredibly proud to be the new Member of Parliament for the riding of Vancouver Granville, and honoured to be the Minister of Justice and the Attorney General of Canada. Prime Minister Trudeau has assembled a strong team and I am honoured to be part of it. I trust Justin Trudeau. He has a good mind and a great heart.

He reaches out to bring people together in common cause. He has given me hope that, working together, we are bringing a government of good people and great integrity to Ottawa, to make the changes that will make all of our lives, and our country, better.

turnout rate in decades, since 1993’s 71 per cent.

The Grits put forth an ambitious policy platform, one that contained over a hundred policy points as outlined at the party’s national site. From the economy to openness in government, the Liberals hit a strong chord with Canadians capturing 6.9 million voters.

But now the hard part: prioritizing pledged promises.

Surrey Centre MP Randeep Sarai said focus will be placed on the middle class as that was a policy area that resonated with voters. “The last 10 to 15 years, growth in earning capacity has not been there for Canadians,” said Sarai, who is an

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What voters have to say: Sukh Dhaliwal, MP, Newton-North Delta

entrepreneur with a background in law.

Sarai added, the lowering of taxes, boosted infrastructure spending and the addition of high-skilled jobs with an emphasis on youth will be important for the growth and development of Canada’s economy.

Sarai won his Surrey riding by over 2,000 votes, defeating NDP incumbent Jasbir Sandhu and Conservative candidate Sucha Thind.

Sarai also talked about a difference in access and openness afforded to and by politicians. “We will

DARPAN

TM

DARPAN conducted a poll asking its readers what promise made by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau got them to believe in him and his leadership. Based on the categories listed in the poll, about 40% of the participants stated that the Prime Minister’s plan to cut middleclass tax bracket to 20.5% was one of the reasons they voted for him, whereas about 40% believed in his promise to cancel income-splitting for families. About 20% participants said his plan for massive infrastructure investment to create jobs and stimulate the economy was appreciated.

SPECIAL FEATURE

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Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship “I was honoured when the Prime Minister asked me to be part of his cabinet. We put forward an ambitious agenda during the election and it is very exciting to be part of the team that Mr. Trudeau entrusted with implementing it. Obviously, the first task will be to carry out our humanitarian commitment to accept 25,000 Syrian refugees. The Prime Minister also made a number of significant commitments to cut waiting times for immigration processing, eliminate the Conservative two-tier citizenship and to make Canada a more welcoming place for newcomers.

I’m looking forward to taking action on all of our commitments.” opinion on our country’s role on the world stage. “Canada doesn’t do well outside of non-NATO or UN sanctioned military interventions,” said Sarai.

We are best as humanitarians and peacekeepers. He thus agrees the decision to remove our CF-18 fighter jets from the U.S. led air-combat mission in Iraq and Syria is a good one. “There will be times Canada needs to go to war,” he added, “but it should be debated and carefully thought out.”

Liberal Jati Sidhu of Abbotsford was another surprising victory for the Grits this election. Sidhu, a businessman of 27 years, secured the Mission-Matqui-Fraser Canyon seat, which, prior to its 2012 redistribution, was traditionally held for decades by the Conservatives.

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SPECIAL FEATURE

Randeep Sarai, MP, Surrey Centre

MP Randeep Sarai said

Hon. Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan with Governor General of Canada David Johnston

focus will be placed on the middle class as that was a policy area that resonated with voters. “The last 10 to 15 years, growth in earning capacity has not been there for Canadians.” He added that the lowering of taxes, boosted infrastructure spending and the addition of high-skilled jobs with an emphasis on youth will be important for the growth and development of Canada’s economy.

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DARPAN

Sidhu, who won by 1,038 votes ahead of Conservative Brad Vis, said focus on the economy was most imperative. “Investing in infrastructure and green jobs,” said Sidhu, who is president of Greenvale Enterprises Inc., a local agricultural company, and CEO of Sidhu Group.

He then shifted gears to Bill C-51, the controversial Conservative anti-terror legislation that passed last June.

Civilian oversight will be key to the democratic success of the bill, Sidhu said, and considering the recommendations made by the United Nations Human Rights committee is something the Liberals must do. But, Sidhu added, “If any Canadian is not involved in a violent act, then it should not apply.”

He also drew close attention to the need to reinstate Canada’s image in the world as

TM

leading peacekeepers, where we currently rank 68th in the world. “Yes, we need to help,” he said of the situation with ISIS, “but we don’t want to try to fight for them.”

He emphatically noted: “I am optimistic with Justin Trudeau – he has a vision.”

From promises to policies The rise of Trudeau’s Liberals was difficult to forecast in an election deemed, for one of the first times, as a three-party race.

There’s no denying Canada’s leftwingers took a large step back from their political influence established in 2011.

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As for my plans as Minister, I will draw upon my experiences as an Edmonton city councillor, as a community advocate and member of the Canadian Urban Transit Association and the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association, and as a bus driver for Edmonton Transit for 10 years. Because of that experience, I look at infrastructure through a municipal lens, and I’ve been on the other side of the table.

As we deliver our ambitious infrastructure investment agenda, my focus will be on working in partnership with others. Right after I was sworn in as Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, I started calling with my provincial and territorial counterparts and other partners to start rekindling those important relationships between the federal government, the provinces and territories, the cities, and associations.

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Home Sweet Home

SPECIAL FEATURE

Mission-Matqui-Fraser Canyon MP Jati Sidhu said focus on the economy was most imperative.

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“Investing in infrastructure and green jobs,” said Sidhu, who is president of Greenvale Enterprises Inc., a local agricultural company, and CEO of Sidhu Group.

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Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

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TM

From 103 seats reduced to 44, many, including the NDP, did not foresee the Liberal’s sweep of the Atlantic.

The Tories are firmly in opposition with 99 seats, or 29 per cent of the House, but Harper-less at the helm.

Trudeau’s Liberals are now in the position to push ahead with their agenda.

As the 43-year-old Prime Minister settles in on his newly appointed Cabinet, pressing matters on the environment juxtaposed against the falling price of oil subtly battering Canada’s economy is front and centre, as is the pledged promise to look into the missing and murdered indigenous women, and a handful of international summits on the horizon.

Further, implementing middle class tax cuts, pulling out of Syria and Iraq and the planned resettlement of 25,000 Syrian refugees by year’s end just scratches the surface of the work ahead.

Certainly a clear majority and mandate in hand, Canadians expect promises to shape into policies in the coming months.

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DARPAN

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Holiday Special Blue light glasses Add special meaning and care to your holiday present by gifting Spektrum’s blue light glasses. People using phones, computers or handheld devices experience sleepless nights and sore eyes due to an excess of blue light that human bodies are not designed for. Blue light glasses simply tint the range of colours the eye can see, thus avoiding the disruption of the internal clock and preventing damage to the eyes. They are light, stylish and look just like a normal pair of glasses. Order it at spektrumglasses.com.

4-in-1 lens Holidays are all about beautiful moments, and the best way to capture them is through Olloclip’s 4-in-1 lens.

Designed for the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus with four advanced-optic lenses, this pocket-sized, patented design works on both front and rear-facing cameras. Plus, it comes with three wearable pendants so that you can carry it wherever you go.

Just clip it on your phone and let your photos and selfies run wild. Log on to olloclip.com for more details.

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DARPAN

BY Petrina D Souza

still wondering what to give your folks this holiday season? daRpan suggests a few ideas to help make your gift-buying experience pleasant and effortless.

TM

attractive accessories Gift your lady love beautiful accessories from the Sarah Bernhardt Burgundy collection

by FreyWille. Ranging from earrings and rings to scarves and watches, this collection pays homage to Alphonse Mucha, a Czech Art Nouveau painter and decorative artist, known best for his distinct style. Gently swirling lines, golden spirals, and magical shapes come together to create an intimate, emotional connection with those who gaze upon it. FreyWille also offers a 30% discount on selective sets till January 2016. For more details, check freywille.com

electric Cocktail shaker Holidays are all about eating, drinking and being merry. Enjoy cocktails with the L’Atelier du Vin Electric Cocktail Shaker. This lightweight shaker, made of stainless steel and plastic, just needs AAA batteries to prepare some delicious cocktails.

Available at Holt Renfrew.

24 day advent Calendar Celebrate the joy of Christmas by gifting your lady relative or friend The Body Shop (TBS)’s 24 Happy Days Advent Calendar. Open the delightful drawers filled with the perfect blend of their best-sellers from skincare, bath and body care to fragrance and makeup, for a head-to-toe feel-good feeling. Explore hidden doors and read inspirational messages until you arrive at your secret gift, hidden in the 24-day wonderland of treats.

Or delight her senses with the White Musk EDT Gift Set – a sensual mix of musk, rose, jasmine, amber and wood sensory notes. Buying a gift set from TBS also equals to a good deed as TBS is partnering with international charity WaterAid for a good cause. For every specially selected gift bought, WaterAid can provide a family in Ethiopia with one day of safe water. Doesn’t that inspire you to buy a gift set right away? Check thebodyshop.ca for more details.

DARPAN

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Holiday Special

horse Carousel Wooden Music Box Papyrus has some stylish and affordable items that can make for simple yet amazing gifts.

Make your child’s holiday season musical by gifting him/her a Melissa & Doug Beginner Band Set. This beginner band set has everything a kid needs for a solo performance or to start their own marching band. Speaking of musical holiday, the Horse Carousel Wooden Music Box is simple and special. Horses and stars go round in a wood carousel as the tune of Mozart’s “Minute, Serenade No.11 KV375” plays in this sweet handcrafted music box. And for the young and older women, the Woah Nice Nails Manicure Set is ideal as it includes all the essentials to help keep the nails tidy. Check papyrusonline.com for more details.

home Fragrance Collection The Jo Malone Pine and Eucalyptus Collection, with breezy pine and bracing eucalyptus, is the quintessential scent for the holiday season and a great present to give someone. The limited edition includes a deluxe candle, room spray, diffuser, and a candle. Available at Holt Renfrew.

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TM

holiday gift Basket Give the full bundle of joy with Joyride’s Holiday Gift Basket. This pretty package includes Joyride’s lotion made with Ylang Ylang and Patchouli oils, organic mineral bath salts, soy and beeswax candle, JINsoon polish, and Rosebud Salve.

Available at Joyride salon.

Wine gift package Your wine-lover pal will truly enjoy and cherish the LaStella Three Bottle Wooden Gift Package. This striking locally-crafted wooden box cradles a selection of three of LaStella’s most essential wines: the award-winning Fortissimo, a Tuscaninspired red blend; the refreshing crisp Vivace Pinot Grigio, and their flagship “solo’ Merlot: the Maestoso. This gift set is a symphony for the senses. Find more information at lastella.ca.

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XPERTSSPEAK EXPERTSSPEAK EXPERTSSPEAK EXPERTSSPEAK EXPERTS in this section, daRpan features your most ‘frequently asked questions’ on diverse topics answered by experts in their respective fields.

SPEAK

WHEN

ICBC SAYS

cause patients more stress and more pain.

Some clinics offer their patients the option to set up a running account that will be collected upon settlement ‒ these agreements are often called “Directions to Pay”. You need to review the fine print because quite often, there is an interest component whereby you pay extra for the option to pay later. It’s best to seek legal advice from an experienced lawyer before entering into a Direction to Pay Agreement. If done properly, this can be an excellent way to continue your rehab without the need for ICBC approval or paying out of pocket for each treatment.

NO! You may experience at some point in your claim, the rehab clinic advising you that ICBC is rejecting or no longer funding your physiotherapy, massage therapy, active rehab, or other form of recommended treatment.

This can be frustrating and builds a certain level of distrust with your insurance company. What can be done about it?

I

f you have been involved in a car accident and are injured, you may have your rehabilitation treatments funded by the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC). You may also experience, at some point in your claim, the rehab clinic advising you that ICBC is rejecting or no longer funding your physiotherapy, massage therapy, active rehab, or other form of recommended treatment. This can be frustrating and builds a certain level of distrust with your insurance company.

What can be done about it? Here are some of the options available to you and the reasoning behind each:

Hire an Experienced Lawyer Dealing with a sophisticated insurance company can be complicated and stressful.

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EXPERTS

A lawyer can help deal with the stress by advancing your claim on a number of fronts, including the rehab approval process. A lawyer can take over all communications so that you no longer have to deal with the adjuster directly. Get the advice you need from an experienced lawyer and understand which benefits will be covered at various stages of your claim.

Extended Health Coverage Your primary benefits will cover your rehab expenses to the extent that you have coverage. Extended Health Coverage is often provided by your employer or you may have purchased additional coverage privately. Extended Health Coverage pays for your medicine at the pharmacy (Manulife, Sunlife, StandardLife, Pacific Blue Cross, etc.). ICBC Part 7 rehab benefits are actually secondary benefits in most instances and you could benefit from using these additional private plans.

Direction to Pay Some rehab clinics have discovered that ICBC often rejects continued rehab and/ or delays the approval process. Patients can be left waiting even if they want to work towards getting better faster. Delays can

DARPAN

TM

File a Part 7 Action There are two components to most car accident claims. First is the claim against the other motorist(s) for causing pain and suffering, and other financial losses. People often confuse this as a claim against ICBC, when in fact you are claiming damages from the other motorist directly. This first component is the legal claim against the driver and registered owner of the vehicle that struck you. The second component of a claim is against ICBC pursuant to Part 7 benefits, also known as no-fault benefits.

These benefits are available to all BC motorists, even in situations where you might be at fault for the collision. This coverage provides for basic wage loss benefits, rehab expenses, and some home-making assistance.

It’s important to get the advice you need and understand which benefits will be covered at various stages of your claim. Most lawyers practicing in the field of ICBC injury claims will provide a free initial consultation.

Take advantage of that opportunity and book an appointment. Making informed decisions is key for your path to recovery.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Perminder S. Tung Perminder S. Tung, is the first Indo-Canadian and the youngest lawyer to make Partner at Lindsay Kenny LLP, a leading BC law firm. He practices civil litigation, with an emphasis on ICBC motor vehicle injury claims, slip and fall claims, insurance coverage disputes, and business/commercial litigation. He is a dedicated trial lawyer with extensive experience and a strong background in negotiation and dispute resolution.

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Darpan's ExtraorDinary achiEvEmEnt awarDs 2015

“Every year DARPAN is becoming bigger and

more colourful. I really love it because we come to meet people, you are in this supportive way so that people who are doing good work should be acknowledged so that they will do even better than what they are doing.”

“I was honoured to be presented with the Breaking Barriers Award in 2011.”

“It is important for me to be at the DARPAN

Harjit Sajjan

Hon. Linda Hepner

Night Defence Minister of Canada

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“Too many people kind of slide

under the radar, they do such amazing work. And the fact that DARPAN goes out of the way to find people in different fields, I think that is very special.”

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“

awards because I want to recognise the wonderful contributions of the South Asian community within the city of Surrey.”

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“DARPAN (Awards) is absolutely one of the premier events we have in Surrey.”

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It’s a great event and DARPAN is doing it for many years. I appreciate their efforts that they are recognising the individuals who are doing a lot for their communities.”

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Surrey City Councillor

“

DARPAN Awards is always fun. DARPAN has taken it to a second level. They do very well.”

Widely recognised as the event-of-the-year in the South Asian community, DARPAN’s Extraordinary Hirdejit Singh 2015 Wirelessworld Achievement Awards recognize and honour the extraordinary achievements of ten individuals in ten “I think it is really important to celebrate award categories against a backdrop of glitz and glamour. the accomplishment of everyone indifferent so

many different fields. It is so great to see everyone supporting everyone else. So many great friends doing such great things in the community and what better way than to come together and have a wonderful time. I always look forward to DARPAN Awards, every single year.”

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“DARPAN Awards is always an amazing night. This organization does a fantastic job of promoting our community and it’s a place to be.”

“DARPAN Awards is especially

important because the magazine has got their finger on the pulse of what’s going on in the community right now. I think it’s good to support the awards event.”

Moe Dhaliwal

DARPAN Award Winner 2013

Wally Oppal

DARPAN Award Winner 2015

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For more DARPAN Award videos, pictures and exclusive details, log on to DARPAN www.darpanmagazine.com

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Darpan's ExtraorDinary achiEvEmEnt awarDs 2015 Dhillon has partnered with the University of British Columbia to establish the Peter P. Dhillon Centre for Business Ethics at Sauder School of Business.

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t was a night of achievements, a night of high spirits, and a night to remember. DARPAN Magazine’s 6th Annual Extraordinary Achievement Awards 2015 was indeed a grand affair.

Right from the buzzing red carpet and the glamourous fashion show, to the excellent awards and the beautiful guests, every element added to the night’s success.

Recognized as the pre-eminent South Asian event-of-the-year, DARPAN hosted its Achievement Awards in the company of esteemed social, business and political elites. The spectacular red-carpet Awards gala honoured 10 remarkable individuals within the South Asian community who embody the spirit of community and believe in giving back through their own avenues in an effort to build society.

Adding a vibe of affluence to the red carpet entrance was the showcase of the latest luxury Cadillac models and the gorgeous ice sculptures depicting DARPAN’s journey of 11 years in publishing excellence. Other features on the red carpet included a media centre with live interviews conducted by our red carpet hosts Gaurav Shah and Mandeep Patrola-Rai, a media wall to pose for

Photo credits: A Master Media, Amrit Photography, Chandra Bodalia, Max Photography, Positive Body Image Photography, Rosa Portrait Studio

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Darpan's ExtraorDinary achiEvEmEnt awarDs 2015

Recognized as the pre-eminent South Asian event-of-

the-year, DARPAN hosted

its Achievement Awards in

the company of esteemed social,

photographs, and champagne and black and gold martinis.

Canadian television personality and ET Now presenter, Sangita Patel, who flew in from Toronto, was the Master of Ceremonies for the event. Named one of Hello! Canada Magazine’s ‘50 Most Beautiful People’ in 2014, Sangita Patel has

business and political elites.

become a familiar face on Canada’s leading entertainment show, Entertainment Tonight Canada. Born and raised in Toronto, Ontario, Patel joined ET Canada in early 2013. Now as an entertainment reporter, she spends most of her time covering movie premiers, giving viewers a behindthe-scenes look into glamourous events like the Cannes Film Festival and interviewing Hollywood celebrities. Throughout her career on television, she has been a part of TV shows such as Toronto Living, Rushes, Weather Network and Breakfast Television.

She has been awarded Anokhi magazine’s TV personality of the year and is the recipient of Trailblazer Award at the Reelworld Film Festival.

This year’s keynote speaker was USB co-founder Ajay Bhatt. Bhatt, along with his team at Intel founded the Universal Serial Bus (USB) – a device found in billions of electronic devices all over the world today. Bhatt joined Intel Corporation in 1990 as a senior staff architect on the chipset architecture team

The popular fashion show

by Vivah showcased Fall 2015 non-bridal collection comprising vibrant colour palettes, exuberant fabrics of beautiful florals, and mirror work detailing.

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Darpan's ExtraorDinary achiEvEmEnt awarDs 2015

The red carpet included a media centre with live interviews conducted by our red carpet hosts Gaurav Shah and Mandeep Patrola-Rai.

in Folsom. He is currently Intel’s Chief Architect and Fellow, Client Computing Group and credited as being the father of the USB standard. Beyond the USB, Bhatt has developed several widely used technologies, including Accelerated Graphics Port, PCI Express, Platform Power management architecture and various chipset improvements. He holds 70 US

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and International patents, and has received many awards for his work.

He won the Achievement in Excellence Award for his contribution in PCI Express specification development in 2002. He received The Light of India Award in 2012 for his contributions in advancement of science and technology. In 2013, he

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was awarded the Outstanding Achievement in Science & Technology Award at The Asian Awards in London. He won the European Inventor Award 2013 for leading a team of computer experts at Intel that developed USB technology.

Bhatt’s creation has helped the world connect better with each other. His achievements make him an inspirational figure for upcoming creators and youth.

MC Patel’s energy and witty sense of humour had the guests engaged to what’s coming next and entertained. Many

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Darpan's ExtraorDinary achiEvEmEnt awarDs 2015

Manj Musik took the stage with singer-wife Nindy Kaur and got the guests dancing.

known figures and celebrities from within the community and British Columbia graced the occasion with their presence.

Spotted at the event were Surrey Mayor Linda Hepner, TransLink Minister Peter Fassbender, Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizen's Services Amrik Virk, MLA for Burnaby-Edmonds Raj Chouhan, and Surrey Councillor Tom Gill, among others. Surrey Mayor Linda Hepner, who looked lovely in a black and

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silver Indian fusion outfit, took the stage to share a few words with the audience.

Guests from within and outside the community added glamour and style to the night with their colourful, graceful and fashionable outfits.

The Awards night also included a refreshing question and answer session with our Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker Ajay Bhatt – who shared with the audience the story behind his popular invention

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Darpan's ExtraorDinary achiEvEmEnt awarDs 2015

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Guests were seen dancing,

mingling and having a great time – making DARPAN

Awards a successful event and a night to remember.

and his inspiring journey so far. The most-awaited part of the event was the fashion show by Vivah Collection. The popular fashion house showcased its Fall 2015 non-bridal collection comprising vibrant colour palettes, exuberant fabrics of beautiful florals, and mirror work detailing. The collection was inspired by the infused vision of today’s fashionista.

The breathtaking show, gorgeous models, and catchy ramp music added more

energy to the stage and had the guests applauding and hoping for more.

The awards session – the main element of the event – was all about achievements, excellence and community spirit. Ten amazing individuals from the South Asian community were recognized for their extraordinary achievements and for reflecting their heritage in a remarkable way. The never-ending applause by the guests, along with the inspiring thank you speeches by the winners generated a feeling of pride and unity at the event.

The atmosphere at the awards night was lively, without a moment of dullness.

Every new session or element that DARPAN planned had the guests in awe.

The evening was young; there was music, food, glamour and beautiful people having a great time. The highlight of the event, besides the awards of course, was the live entertainment by the talented Manj Musik. The talented singer, who has worked with Saif Ali Khan, Shahrukh Khan and Akshay Kumar, amongst others, took the stage with singer-wife Nindy Kaur, and got the guests dancing. Guests were seen dancing, mingling and having a great time – making DARPAN Awards a successful event and a night to remember.

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And the 2015

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Ajay Bhatt

International Sensation

Goes to . . .

In Honour of your Extraordinary Achievements and Contributions in the Field of Technology and Science on a Global Scale

“It was my distinct pleasure to receive this coveted award at DARPAN’s annual event. It is always nice to be recognized by one’s own community.”

Ajay Bhatt receives the International Sensation Award from Canadian Western Bank V.P. & District Manager, BC Region, Blaine Forer; Puneet Agrawal, Director of Business

Wally Oppal

Ajay Bhatt is the co-founder of the Universal Service Bus, popularly known at the USB. This IndianAmerican computer architect’s creation is found in billions of electronic devices all over the world and has helped smoothen interactions among

people from different countries. Bhatt has also developed several widely used technologies including AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port), PCI Express, Platform Power management architecture and various chipset improvements. He holds 70 US and International patents. Bhatt received The Light of India Award in 2012 for his contributions in advancement of science and technology. In 2013, he was awarded the Outstanding Achievement in Science & Technology Award at The Asian Awards in London, and the European Inventor Award for leading a team of computer experts at Intel that developed USB technology.

In Honour of Your Extraordinary Achievements as an Acclaimed

Industry Marvel

Wally Oppal is a Canadian lawyer, former judge and provincial politician, who is currently serving as the Chancellor of the Thompson Rivers University. He was recently appointed to the Board of Directors of the Dr. Peter AIDS Foundation. In 2003, he was appointed to the British Columbia Court of Appeal, making him the second Indo-Canadian Attorney-General of British Columbia. In 2005, he was appointed as Attorney General of British Columbia and served as Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism until 2009. Oppal was justice system, including the establishment

Wally Oppal receives the Industry Marvel Award from Peter Heppner, General Manager, Preston GM

with chronic offenders, developing new Rules of Court in order to promote quicker resolution of disputes and developing new initiatives in dealing with violence against women. He is also known as the author of a report: The Independent Commission of Inquiry into Policing in British Columbia (commonly referred to as the Oppal Inquiry). Oppal has dedicated his entire working life to the pursuit of social justice and community safety. He has been recognized with several awards like the Lawyer Helping Lawyer Award (2007) by Lawyers Assistance Program of B.C., and Honorary Doctor of Laws by the University of the Fraser Valley (2010).

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AWARDS

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Ratana Stephens

“This award is a matter of great satisfaction, not only

Corporate Engagement

to me but also to various colleagues of mine that have contributed to so much of our success.”

In Honour of Your Extraordinary Achievements as a Leader and Entrepreneur in the South Asian Community

Dr. Narinder Kapany 2013 International Sensation

“

What a humbling experience. I was so proud of the remarkable achievements of every winner that night – made me feel so proud of our whole community.”

Nira Arora - 2012 Industry Marvel

“

Ratana Stephens receives the Corporate Engagement Award from Daljit Thind, CEO, Thind Properties Ratana Stephens is Chief Operating

was recognized as one of B.C.’s 50

Nature’s Pathreceives FoodsYoung Inc. Wonder – North Ivneet Bains Awardshe fromwas Nav honoured with the YWCA Woman of Distinction Award. She is a Cheema of Simon Fraser University. breakfast foods company, with board member for United Way Lower organic production facilities in Mainland and holds several other British Columbia, Ontario, Washington awards for community service. A role State and Wisconsin. She has model for entrepreneurial women, served as a Director of British Ratana is committed to opportunities that meet the needs of people and Cancer Society. In 2015, Stephens planet.

Rob Rai

Community Crusader

I was very impressed with Darpan Magazine’s Extraordinary Achievement Awards. The calibre of the guests, award nominees and entertainment made this one of the strongest events I’ve participated in this year. I am honoured and humbled to have received the award.”

Suneet Singh Tuli - 2012 International Sensation

“It was a truly an unforgettable night with so much inspiration. I felt honoured and humbled to be selected as the recipient.”

Sukhmeet Sachal - 2013 Young Wonder

In Honour of Your Extraordinary Achievements in Rescuing and Providing Rehabilitory Services to At-Risk Youth in the Community and Beyond Rob Rai currently holds the position of Manager of Safe Schools for the Surrey School District, and has been working in prevention for the last 10 years. His work

Rob Rai receives the Community Crusader Award from Milan Mann, Balraj Mann Group

America where he has collaborated with experts on the subject in both Canada and the USA. Rai and the Surrey School District opened the Wrap Project in 2009, which provides services to at-risk youth who exhibit signs of gang associated behaviour. His name has become wellknown nationally, and in major urban cities in the U.S.A., for his innovative

approaches to tackling gang problems.

Rai discovered his passion for working end of youth programs before shifting his focus to one-on-one interactions with kids in 1997. Rai is a speaker on nearly every gang conference lineup in Canada and some events in Chicago, L.A., Toronto, Quebec, Alberta, B.C. and beyond. Recognised for his innovative approaches to working with students and at-risk youth, Rai has been awarded numerous honours in Canada and in the USA, including the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal 2012.

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Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

Aishwarya Roshan

Naveen Girn

In honour of Your Extraordinary Achievements in Academia and Community Initiatives

In Honour of Your Extraordinary Achievements in Promoting South Asian Arts, Culture and Heritage

Young Wonder

Aishwarya Roshan receives the Young Wonder Award from Steve Dooley, Executive Director, Simon Fraser University

Ivneet Bains receives Young Wonder Award from Nav

Aishwarya Roshan was one among Cheema of Simon Fraser University.

50 high school graduates to receive the prestigious Schulich Leader Scholarships of $60,000 this year. She is currently studying at the University of British Columbia with a Schulich science scholarship, and hopes to study pharmacology. Roshan, who graduated from high school with a 96 percent average, founded a national environmental youth group during her high school. During grade 11 and 12, she led six clubs within her school district, while pursuing

a semi-professional dance career.

Roshan greatly appreciates youth involvement and leadership, and is a to positive change in the world. She with communities to implement solutions, projects, and innovations that would better serve society. From her high school experience, she has developed an ever-growing passion for environmentalism, international relations, and journalism, alongside her interest in the sciences.

Heritage Defender

Naveen Girn receives the Heritage Defender Award from Trevor Boyd, Exclusive Floors Naveen Girn is a community engagement specialist and curator whose interests centre on Vancouver’s South Asian community, intercultural oral history and curation. Girn co-curated Spectacular Sangeet (2013) at the Surrey Art Gallery and the award-winning Bhangra.me: Vancouver’s Bhangra Story (2011) at the Museum of Vancouver, which received an Award for Excellence from the Canadian Museum Association.

In 2014, he was Project Manager for the Komagata Maru 1914-2014:

Generations, Geographies and Echoes project that brought together eight institutions across Metro Vancouver to collaboratively commemorate the centennial anniversary of the Komagata Maru. He was curator of Goonj: Being Brown in Chinatown, which was a part of Indian Summer Festival 2015. Girn has curated art and historical exhibitions across Metro Vancouver, and is a partner at Digital Handloom, a community storytelling practice that engages with and shares untold community stories.

Mamta Foundation Advancing Philanthropy

In Honour of Your Extraordinary Achievements and Contributions to Charitable Ventures in the South Asian Community and Beyond cultural and economic uplift of orphan, unwanted, abandoned and poor children gender selective abortions and stand for gender equality and women’s empowerment. The foundation supports the capacity of local communities

Mamta Foundation receives the Advancing Philanthropy Award from Dr. Aly Kanani, BC Orthodontics Group

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against women and girls globally. It also supports the poor, helpless, seniors, disabled persons, and people affected by natural disasters and wars around the world without any distinction of country, region, race, caste, colour, and religion.

St 200

Willowbrook Shopping Centre

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Steven Purewal

Cassius Khan

In Honour of Your Extraordinary Achievements in Promoting the Contributions of Indian Soldiers in the First World War

In Honour of Your Extraordinary Contributions as an Exponent of South Asian Classical Music

Artistic Visionary

Breaking Barriers

Cassius Khan receives the Artistic Visionary Award from Anita Huberman, CEO, Surrey Board of Trade

Steven Purewal receives the Breaking Barriers Award from Sohan Singh Bhogal and Paul Bhogal, Sunrise Kitchens

Ivneet Bains receives Young Wonder Award from Nav Cheema of Simon Fraser University. the creator of Duty, Honour & Izzat: Steven Purewal is the creator of Duty, Honour & Izzat: The Call to Flanders Fields WW1 Centennial exhibition.

Steven Purewal is the founder of Foundation Canada. Purewal is an avid collector of military memorabilia and has spent many years tracking the India World War One story. He is

Cassius Khan is a classical musician known for playing the Tabla and Ghazal while singing. He is the most successful and recognisable Indian Classical musician in Canada.

In 2005, Khan was the only Canadian musician of Indian heritage invited to perform Ghazal and a Tabla solo recital at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa as part of Alberta Scene

The Call to Flanders Fields WW1 Centennial exhibition, which details the story of 500,000 Punjabi combatants who fought alongside Canadians in the WW1. The exhibition was put together in 2014 to celebrate the hundredth anniversary of the First World War. Purewal collected primary sources such as government citations, medals, artwork, personal letters, newspaper clippings and other documents that were displayed at the exhibit.

Canadian who performed at the prestigious Sa Ma Pa Music Festival at Kamani Auditorium in New Delhi, India, on 23 November 2013.These

Canadian Indian musician. Khan’s Ghazal album “Mushtari, a live concert” released in 2011, was nominated for World Album of the Year by the Western Canadian Music Awards (WCMA). He was awarded the ‘Salute to Excellence Award’ by the City of Edmonton for his immense contributions and honour he had brought in Indian classical music. Khan has been recognised as “Canada’s Multifaceted Musician.” He is also an honorary Cultural Ambassador to the City of New Westminster.

Sahil Sandhu Spirit of Sport

In Honour of Your Extraordinary Achievements and Contributions as an Inspiring Athlete and Role Model Sahil Sandhu is a professional soccer player who plays as a forward for Whitecaps FC 2 in the United Soccer League. Sandhu, who started his career with the Vancouver Whitecaps FC Residency program, has represented Canada at the under-15 and under-17 levels. He was awarded the B.C. Soccer Association Male Youth Player of the Year in 2007. In 2012, he was the PACWEST Player of the year and 2012 CCAA Player of the Year nominee.

Sahil Sandhu receives the Spirit of Sport Award from Rocky Mangat, Handy Appliances; and on Regional Manager Paulo Oliviera (on behalf of Samsung Canada)

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By GARIMA GOSWAMI

SERVICE BEFORE PROFIT:

HUMANITY HOSPITAL

as a charitable hospital operating in hanspukur and sundarban, West Bengal, humanity hospital serves as a perfect model of affordable healthcare in a country like india where the majority of the population dwells in rural areas.

S

ubhasini Mistry, with her son Dr. Ajoy Kumar Mistry, is providing excellent service to mankind by providing free medical services to the poor. As a charitable hospital operating in Hanspukur and Sundarban, West Bengal, Humanity Hospital serves as a perfect model of affordable health-care in a country like India where the majority of the population dwells in rural areas.

Dearth of social security measures for the poor translates into the worst that they can bore in times of illness or a natural calamity.

For a country that has earned a reputation of exporting the best medical professionals to the world, it is shocking to see a portion of

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its population yearn for basic and proper medical facilities. And yet, we see exemplars such as Mistry and her son Dr. Ajoy, who despite of all adversities take charge of change and advancement.

In April 1971, Mistry’s 35-year-old husband, a vegetable vendor in Hanspukur, died of a curable minor ailment, only because he could not receive the necessary medical attention. With the tragic death of the sole breadwinner of the family, Mistry had to step into her husband’s shoes and sell vegetables in that hamlet market, while raising four children. It was during those days of hardship that Mistry vowed to work towards building a hospital for the poor, so no one else had to suffer like her husband did. She took up work as a maid, did physical labour and even gave up two of her children in an orphanage for their better education and upbringing.

Recalling their days of struggle, Dr. Ajoy says, “Being orphan, all of us were forced to work to fill the belly and live. I had worked in

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a tea stall and as a house servant. My mother and elder siblings [were] doing all sorts of manual labour. Then my mother sent my sister and me to a government home. Besides my self-studies, I used to make some money by teaching students and saved them to make the hospital.”

For the next three decades, Mistry was saving every cent she earned, with the only expenditure being her children’s education. In 1992, when she purchased one acre of land in

DARPAN SALUTES Hanspukur and laid the foundation of Humanity Hospital by opening a clinic inside a tiny hut, local villagers stepped in with generous donations.

These donations poured in, in the form of finance, building material, labour, and whatever was offerable.

On the first day itself, the temporary arrangement witnessed 252 patients. As the word spread out, doctors operating in the nearby regions started volunteering a few hours, and eventually the tiny clinic spread out to become a full-fledged hospital offering intensive medical care. Today, the hospital has branched out its name across India and abroad, and extended medical support to individuals that either cannot afford medical services or are kept aloof from basic medical services in their region.

“We have a team of about 30 doctors, 20 nurses and assistants, and 10 volunteers and members to manage all the activities,” Dr. Ajoy states proudly.

“Most of our doctors, nurses & other staffs are not permanent/full-time employees as we can’t pay them as per market standard due to insufficiency of funds. We manage the events through the pool of human resource available.”

Recent statistics from various camps held by Humanity Hospital report 59,253 treatments conducted from April to September 2015. The hospital treats approximately 1,000 patients on a daily basis. A major surgery, which may mount up to thousands of dollars, costs merely $100 CAD or less, minor ailments are treatable with $0.20 CAD cent fee – for those that can afford to pay.

Dr. Ajoy shares some memories from his struggling childhood saying, “I almost cannot remember my father, but after he passed by, I remember, we all had starved for whole day for many days. In the tea stall, ill treatment from all the sides perhaps made me stubborn to become what I am now. The few teachers and mentor cum guide in my study period, were a boon for me, without whom the small boy could not become Dr. Ajoy.”

Currently operating in Hanspukur and Sunderban, the charitable hospital survives on donations, which does not include any sort of support from the government. Despite the small staff and lack of funds for infrastructure and development, the dedicated team at Humanity Hospital has surpassed in accomplishing Mistry’s mission – placing service before profit. As Dr. Ajoy puts it, “Nobody will be deprived of medical services here. Even patients that are able to pay are charged very nominally, so it is ‘HUMANITY HOSPITAL’.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

GarimaGoswami Garima is a travel enthusiast who loves to explore and read world literature.

Her favourite spot in Vancouver is the central library.

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DARPAN NEWS

IN PICTURES

Mika Singh Concert in Vancouver Disco Dandiya Night The Disco Dandiya Night organized by the Gujarati Society of British Columbia (GSBC) at Aria Banquet Hall, Photo Credit: GSBC

Bollywood singer Mika Singh rocked the night with his energetic songs and dance moves. The music artist entertained fans at the Orpheum theatre in Vancouver with over 75 songs that have topped billboard charts. The show was organised by Kamal Sharma of Kamal Video Palace. Photo Credit: Chandra Bodalia

Cowell Auto Group Groundbreaking Ceremony Richmond-based Cowell Auto Group hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for their all-new Audi of Richmond and Jaguar Land Rover of Richmond dealerships, located in the Richmond Auto Mall. Over 150 media, manufacturer executives, staff, community leaders and VIPs were present on-site to celebrate. Cowell Auto Group is the oldest continuously owned retail automobile dealership in Richmond and one of the oldest in Metro Vancouver.

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SFU Diwali Gala Over 300 local business, government and community leaders, as well as SFU alumni, faculty, students and staff attended this Simon Frazer University’s eight Annual Diwali Gala. The event raised funds to support SFU students to gain experience working and volunteering in cities and villages throughout India.

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Photo Credit: Chandra Bodalia

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Bistro

A Class Above the Rest!

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keeping the same old tradition

some authentic and

of fresh ingredients in mind

mouth-watering

that we all grew up with.

Indian food in a

After visiting many hotels in

relaxing ambience? Head to

and around town, the lack of

Sapphire Bistro in Surrey. This

fresh food or good service

recently-opened eatery, which

encouraged Sandhu and

serves affordable, freshly-made

Behniwal to open their own

North Indian cuisine, believes in

restaurant.

good food, relaxed setting and

One of the best features of

customer service – the three

the restaurant – food prepared

key elements of a successful

using fresh ingredients. “At

restaurant.

Sapphire Bistro, we have cut

Sapphire Bistro is a vision

down on our freezer space;

crafted by Gary Sandhu and

we have only two very small

Gurminder Behniwal to bring

chest freezers. We prepare our

forward the forgotten experience

gravies three times a week, a

– the taste we have left

lot of time and labour goes in

thousands of miles behind

it. That’s why guests ask us

us. The food is prepared

why our gravy is so smooth,”

PHOTO: AMriT PHOTOgrAPHy

BUSINESS PROFILE

Sapphire T

hinking of enjoying

The food was exceptionally good and service was excellent.

- Surjit Singh Sandhu

I would encourage everyone to try out their food. Really good service and delicious food.

- Mandeep Sarkaria

Delicious food, beautiful ambience.. simply superb Sapphire Bistro.

- Dolly Sooch

Sapphire Bistro is a dream come true for everyone who has put their hard work into it.

- Rani Panesar shares Behniwal, suggesting

on the second floor because it

already inculcated the value

dining, family room, lounge, and

customers to try their delicious

would be something different

of satisfied customer service

services such as take out, catering

Butter Chicken dish to taste

for the customers,” explains

among its staff. “We have a

and a banquet hall. The banquet

its smoothness and balance in

Sandhu. “No other Indian

general manager who is highly

hall has the facilities of DJ, bar

ingredients.

restaurant is on the second floor

skilled and trained, and is

and projector, and can host almost

in Surrey,” adds Behniwal.

staying on top of everything to

100 people.

For the décor, the

give the staff daily training on

“We don’t compromise on quality. Try it once and you will definitely

“Try it once, if you like it, come

partners went around

customer service, how to be

back with others,” says Sandhu

to a lot of various

professional and how to sell.

in conclusion. “Come, eat,

Our staff is very polite, and

experience and believe,” says Behniwal.

come back,” says

restaurants to see

Sandhu, pointing out that their appetizer,

what they can do

suggests what is good on the

Stuffed Tangri, is

different. They

menu,” states Sandhu.

a very popular dish

wanted to give

Sapphire Bistro also has patio

“ At Sapphire Bistro, we have cut down on our freezer space; we have only two very small chest freezers. We prepare our gravies three times a week, a lot of time and labour goes in it. That’s why guests ask us why our gravy

”

is so smooth, says Gurminder Behniwal. among customers. Stuffed Tangi

Sapphire Bistro a very relaxed

comprises of marinated chicken

look. “When they come here,

left overnight with cashew base

we want them to be stress-free

and minced meat stuffing filled

and enjoy the ambience. The

into the drumsticks. “No eatery

decor is not flashy, so you can

in Surrey has this dish on its

sit and relax with friends” says

menu. And if you do find it in the

Behniwal.

menu, you won’t have the same

the walls and walls painted

here,” expresses Sandhu.

in different colours. “No other restaurant has these wall

the restaurant is its location.

designs,” says Sandhu proudly,

Sapphire Bistro is located on

“We have different colours and

the second floor, giving way to a

different themes to every area.”

stunning view and a quiet dining experience. “We wanted to be

BANQUET

There is also 3D art work on

authentic taste anywhere but Another appealing feature of

BISTRO

Despite being new in the

#201 - 7500 120 Street Surrey BC V3W 3N1

778.564.3666

w w w. s a p p h i r e b i s t r o . c a

market, Sapphire Bistro has

DARPAN

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BUSINESS PROFILE

prices. "Pre-designed kitchen using AutoCAD/2020 helps client get clear vision and knowing the exact design/

Interior Designer

style of kitchen helps them shop around for best deal."

MOD STYLE Design & Décor

M

Sangha

renovating, it is advisable to hire an interior designer right from the start. “I If hired after drywall, I have limited choice with custom designing and I

Selecting tubs, sinks, toilets, faucets, shower knobs and handles.

Selecting hardwood, rug, laminate, countertops, backsplash, mirrors.

Selecting moulding, blinds, trims and kickboard.

Landscaping, gazebo, waterfall and barbecue kitchen design.

Furnishing and Decoration.

have to work with what’s there. Some

At MOD Style Design and Décor,

clients hire me right from the planning

the client can expect Mandeep to be

stage

custom

involved in every aspect of designing

interior and exterior designing and

for the interior and exterior, from

with

architect

for

Nahal’s

but even a small thing such as door

others contact me when plan is

concept to completion. "The biggest

combining

knob, handle or colour, can help

approved from city and digging

mistake that owners make in designing

design elements with finesse and

transform the entire look of the

starts."

their home is replication," Mandeep

sophistication

space,” Mandeep says.

prowess

in is

impressive.

This

highly qualified interior designer at

As

a

young,

MOD Style Design and Décor comes

enthusiastic

with

a

extensive experience

and

a

decade

creative

designer worth

and

carrying

of

Mandeep fuses her client's taste

cohesive and authentic interiors that

with customized design solutions

reflects excellence. With a client base

while creating a space that reflects

extending across the Lower Mainland,

warmth

Mandeep has successfully completed

involves adopting a collaborative

multiple projects from single-family

and proactive approach. Mandeep

houses to huge farmhouses, and

is

works closely with her clientele by

everything with the client alongside

offering highly personalized services.

instructing

tradesmen

“I always discuss my client’s vision

including

framers,

and budget and then show them all

plumbers, finishers and tile installers.

and

closely

When

functionality.

involved

hired

at

in

This

selecting at

jobsite

electricians, the

point

of

the project, I am involved in selecting

inception, Mandeep can assist in

every little thing. It may be surprising

getting the best products at the best

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

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Some of the several services offered at MOD Style Design and Décor include:

experience,

unique style perspective in creating

the options. From start to finish of

76

at any stage, be it building or

always prefer to start before drywall.

Modern/Contemporary Custom Home Designs andeep

Mandeep points out that although she can offer the best of her services

Styles of stucco, shingles, facia, gable and roof.

says. "Designing is all about following a theme and giving a specific look without

mixing

styles.”

Matchless

quality of freshness and elegance Designing ceiling drops, kitchen, bathroom, feature walls, living room and family room units.

Selecting stone, tiles, colour, stains, railing, doors and windows.

Selecting lighting, fireplace, entry and garage door.

stands at the core of MOD Style Design and Décor. What sets Mandeep apart in this multithreaded design approach that she meticulously employs in all her projects. “An expert eye always helps in making the best out of the layout,” she says.

For Free Consultation Call or Email:

14730 56B Avenue Surrey BC

778-809-9795

modstyledesign@gmail.com

PHOTO: AMriT PHOTOgrAPHy

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Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN RECIPES

Seared king scallops, aubergine relish

By Chef Vivek Singh

PRePARATioN

SURF n’ TURF

For the Galouti kebab: 500 g lean lamb mince 3 tbsp ginger-garlic paste ¼ tbsp red chilli powder 3 tbsp ghee, melted

1 pinch of saffron soaked in 2 tbsp of water

iNgReDieNTs

1 tsp of fresh pineapple juice ¼ tsp salt

For the seared king scallops: 12 king scallops, cleaned 1 tsp salt 1 tbsp vegetable or corn oil 1 tsp fennel seeds, lightly roasted 1 tsp cumin seeds, roasted and coarsely crushed

Juice of 1 lemon

For the aubergine relish: 6 large sized aubergines 1 ½ tsp salt 1 tsp mustard oil 1 small red onion, finely chopped

1 cm/½ inch piece of fresh 1 tsp coriander seeds, roasted ginger, finely chopped and coarsely crushed 1 green chilli, finely chopped ½ tsp red chilli flakes

78

1 tbsp rice flakes (pawa)

2 tbsp chopped fresh coriander

1 tbsp butter

Juice of ½ a lemon

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4 tbsp dried onions, fried and 2 tbsp fried cashew nut (Mix together the fried onions and cashew nuts and blend to a smooth paste in a blender) 4 drops of rose or kewra water Ghee to shallow fry

For the spice mix: ½ tsp cumin, roasted and cooled 4 green cardamoms 1 blade of mace Seeds of 1 black cardamom ½ tsp black peppercorns 1/8 nutmeg 4 cloves

Seared king scallops Pat the scallops dry on a kitchen paper. Sprinkle the salt and set aside for a couple of minutes.

Heat the oil in a large, nonstick frying pan and sear the scallops over a medium to high heat for one to two minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, chilli and rice flakes on top of the scallops to form an even crust.

Add the butter to the pan and place the pan under a hot grill for two minutes until the rice flake turn golden brown and the butter starts foaming.

Remove the scallops from the pan and add the lemon juice.

Place the aubergines in a roasting tray and roast in an oven at 200C/400F/Gas mark 6 for about 18 minutes. Allow it to cool for 30 minutes.

Once cooled, peel the skin and roughly chop the aubergines. Add the remaining ingredients and adjust the seasoning. Serve the scallops on a bed of aubergine.

About the Chef

Chef Vivek Singh Chef Singh is the Executive Chef and CEO of The Cinnamon Club, Cinnamon Kitchen and Cinnamon Soho in London, UK. His cooking is inspired from a number of sources - from memories, travel, journeys to the seasons and the availability of ingredients. He has also authored many books, namely The Cinnamon Club Cookbook, Cinnamon Club Seafood Cookbook, Curry: Classic and Contemporary, Cinnamon Kitchen The Cookbook and Spice at Home.

TM

Abacus & Mental Arithmetic Program w w w. a l o h a c a n a d a . c a

Galouti kebab Mix together all the above spices and grind to a fine powder in mortar and pestle.

Take the minced meat in a mixing bowl, add the spice mix and all the other ingredients into it and mix well. Add the ghee into the mince and chill in the freezer compartment for 20-30 minutes.

Complete Brain Development Program

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Take the chilled mince and blend in a food processor pulsing slowly at first then for longer durations as the machine eases off. Blend for two to three minutes until the mix acquires the texture of a fine mince.

Now add the remaining tablespoon of ghee, rose or kewra water as you may be using, mix thoroughly and refrigerate again to chill for 15-20 minutes.

Shape the minced meat into patties of about 40 to 50 gms each and 4 cm in diameter. Heat the ghee for shallow frying in a heavy-based frying pan and shallow fry the patties over low heat for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they are well cooked.

Remove from the pan and place them on kitchen paper to get rid of the excess fat. Serve hot with seared king scallops, and aubergine relish.

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DARPAN RECIPES

By Chef Vivek Singh

Preparation

Keralan Seafood Pie iNgReDieNTs

½ tsp salt

500 g mussels in the shell, cleaned 200 g undyed smoked haddock fillet, diced into 1 inch pieces 200 g cleaned squid tubes or cuttlefish, scoured Puff pastry- roll out to 16 cm diameter sized discs approximately 3 mm thick.

½ tsp sugar Olive oil Mix together all of above and serve as a side to the seafood pie.

For the sauce: 2 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable oil 20 fresh curry leaves

For salad: 100 g sprouted fenugreek seeds 100 g sprouted moong beans 1 tomato deseeded with ½ cm dices ½ cucumber deseeded with ½ cm dices

1 large onion, peeled and sliced 2.5 cm piece of fresh ginger, cut into julienne 6 green chillies slit open lengthways ½ tsp ground turmeric ½ tbsp rice flour 500 ml extra thick coconut milk

1 green chilli (optional)

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First make the sauce. Heat the oil in a large frying pan; add the curry leaves, onion, ginger, and green chillies and cook, stirring, until the onion is soft.

Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the mussels open up and sauce begins to turn glossy.

Remove the mussels and take the meat out of the shell, discard the shells and thicken the sauce to the consistency of a very thick sauce.

To assemble the pie: Remove the sauce from flame, cool and mix the raw seafood and the mussel meat through the sauce.

Divide into four parts, place in a cast iron shallow skillet, garnish with the reserved green chillies and curry leaves and cover with Puff pastry disc.

Brush with egg, sprinkle black onion seeds and bake in a hot fan assisted oven at 200 degrees for 10 minutes.

1 tsp salt

DARPAN

Reserve four halves of green chillies and 10 curry leaves for garnish.

Add the mussels and turmeric, followed by the rice flour. Mix the rice flour evenly, then add coconut milk and salt, and bring to a simmer.

Juice of ½ a lemon

240 g peeled and deveined raw shrimp

Sauce:

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Serve immediately with sprouted fenugreek and moong lentil salad.

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Photography- Amrit Photography, Hair & Makeup: Luvania Studio, Decor- Raymons Decor, Model: Diljott (Patiala Peg Fame)

MADE IN INDIA 604-501-2577

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MADE IN INDIA 604-501-2577

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Gagan Arora, T: 604.825.4873 Unit-116, 8166-128 St, Surrey, BC

Photographer: Amrit Photography | Hair & Makeup: Pristine Allure | Models: Kirti, Ramita

Vivah Collection

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Vivah Collection

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015

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Gagan Arora, T: 604.825.4873 Unit-116, 8166-128 St, Surrey, BC Vivah Collection

Vivah Collection

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Sunshine Boutique

604-594-9995 158-12899 80 Ave SURREY BC

Photographer: AMASTERMEDIA | Hair & Makeup: Nav Dhaliwal, Payal Beauty Heights | Models: Rav Pawar

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Exquisite designs GREAT SELECTION AFFORDABLE

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Bharti Art Jewellers Exquisite Gold and Diamond Jewellery

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The Leading Jeweller Since 1973 Jewellery as Unique as You! With Bharti Art Jewellers, you can customize your own designs and craft them to perfection.

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TM NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015

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N A P R

y t u ea

DA

B

The

t f i G toyf

Beau

me o s d Sprea heer c y a holid ese h t f o one with ited m i l , t en decad sets. t f i g n editio

PHOTO: COurTESy Of BrANdS fEATurEd

BY CATHERINE TSE

Lush, Winter Garden, $37.95 smelling fabulous is always in season and Lush’s gift set is full of hand-made delights inspired by garden blooms. this contains five luxurious all-star products that will leave skin soft and delicately scented. this holiday set includes rose Jam shower Gel, rub rub rub solid Body scrub, Gorgeous Facial moisturizer, Dream cream hand and Body Lotion and snowcake soap.

Available online at lush.ca and at Lush retail stores.

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Hourglass, Ambient Lighting Edit, $95 hourlgass is the expert on delivering luminous glow, and their holiday palette offers six shades designed to brighten, contour and highlight, all in a single, elegant palette. this includes blushes, bronzers and the new ambient strobe Lighting powder in iridescent strobe Light, a sheer illuminating highlighter designed to capture and reflect light on the face.

Available online at sephora.ca and in-store at Sephora retail stores

Hair Salon We are specialized in: Hair Cuts Threading Hair Color Waxing Facial Make-up

Tel: 604.525.9298 7563 6th Street Burnaby, BC V3N 3M4

www.moneysbeauty.com

Burt’s Bees, On the Go Kit, $14.99 always a crowd-pleaser, Burt’s Bees offers an adorable pouch this holiday season containing an assortment of nourishing products for those on-the-go. perfect for those who travel a lot or for stashing in the office desk to keep the face, hands and lips conditioned all through the holiday season. this kit contains white tea Facial cleansing towelettes, Lemon Butter cuticle cream mini, milk and honey Body Lotion mini, vanilla Bean Lip Balm and the classic Beeswax Lip Balm.

Laser Centre

Available at drug stores.

All laser hair removal treatments include free laser peels LASER HAIR REMOVAL * Safe for all skin types * Attacks the hair not the skin * Removes surface impurities & build-up * Walk out looking & feeling great

LASER PEEL

Clé de Peau Beauté, Collection Bal Masque Nail Lacquer Trio, $80 For incredible impact, this gift of three exquisite nail lacquers from prestige makeup line, clé de peau, won’t disappoint. this limited edition holiday collection was inspired by the mysterious elegance of a masquerade and the bottles are exquisitely adorned. the collection has been exclusively packaged in collaboration with renowned jewellery designer, Joji Kojima.

* Clarifies & Softens skin * Evens skin color & tone * Erases signs of aging * Brightens complexion

MICRODERMABRASION * Fine lines & Wrinkles * Blotchy-dull skin * Superficial Hyper-Pigmentation * Sun Damaged skin, Excess skin oil

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ls, waxing We do facdiaing. We also and threa alogica and sell Dermin products Nu Sk

Softer, More Beauti ful Skin i n Mi n u t e s Tel: 604.582.HAIR (4247) 12018 100Ave., Scott Road

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Available at Holt Renfrew.

DARPAN

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DARPAN BEAUTY

Make Up For Ever, Cult Brush Set, $99 creating beautiful holiday looks start with the right tools, and make Up For Ever’s holiday brush set is perfect for collectors or for those just starting out. the brushes are handcrafted and come neatly stored in a travel pouch to keep them protected. the set includes a foundation brush (#106), a highlighter brush (#152), an eye shader brush (#226), a bent eyeliner brush (#260) and an angled eyebrow brush (#270).

Available online at sephora.ca and in-store at Sephora retail stores and Make Up For Ever boutiques.

Rodial, Smokey Eye Kit, $49

Tarte, Light of the Party, $71

From cult-beauty brand, rodial, this luxe

Give the gift of glamour with this beautifully

ating the perfect, sultry smokey eye. this

designed kit. the sturdy zippered case is

kit contains three of rodials’ best-sellers:

adorned in sequins, which holds an impres-

Glamolash mascara xxL, smokey Eye pen

sive 30+ beauty items within. this dazzling

in black and instaglam magic pen Eye Glow.

collector’s set contains 24 holiday-ready eye shadows, a double-ended eye shad-

makeup set is focused on one thing: cre-

Available at Murale retails stores.

ow brush, six limited-edition shadows, and brand new highlighter, bronzer and blush shades. a deluxe sample size of their cult favourite, Lights, camera Lashes 4-in-1 mascara will complete any holiday look.

Available online at sephora.ca and in-store at Sephora retail stores.

Escents, Mini Wellness Roll-on Tin, $32.95

Atelier Cologne, Collection Azur Travel Spray Gift Set, $60

holiday season with Escents’ 100% natu-

The Asian Beauty Secret Collection, $95

Give the gift of health and wellness this ral aromatherapy roll-ons. made from

this luxury skincare line comes from Korea, where

this metal tin contains eight vials of atelier

pure therapeutic grade essential oils and

some of the best, most innovative skincare products

cologne’s most popular scents. perfect for traveling

plant-based ingredients, these vials are

are developed. this holiday set is a fantastic value

or tucking into a purse, these offer artisanal

perfect for keeping on hand to help keep

and a great way to introduce some new products

fragrances

that

yet

the calm through the hectic holiday season.

into your skincare regime. this kit contains a treat-

universally

beautiful.

orange

the set includes four roll-ons – head-aid,

ment Enzyme peel (full size) to exfoliate dry, dull skin;

sanguine, cédrat Eniivrant, pomélo paradis, vanille

stress relief, Breathe Easy and muscle

moisture Bound skin Energy hydration Delivery

intensée, mandarine Glaciale, sud magnolia, Figuier

relief – all stored in a travel-friendly

system (full size) to increase brightness wile bal-

ardent and cédre atlas. a wonderful set for anyone

reusable tin ready for use in any situation.

ancing moisture levels; intensive vitalizing Eye Es-

are

mysteriously scents

unique

include:

who loves niche, well-crafted French fragrances.

Available online at escents.ca and in-store at Escents retail storesSephora retail stores and Make Up For Ever boutiques.

Available online at sephora.ca and in-store at Sephora retail stores.

sence to immediately lift and de-puff the eye area; moisture Bound hydra-gel oil-free to provide intense hydration and replenish nutrients; and treatment cleansing oil to thoroughly cleanse pores and remove all traces of makeup, sunscreen and impurities.

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Available online at sephora.ca or in-store at Sephora retail stores.

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DARPAN STYLE

A men’s and women’s guide to winter fashions.

t

hroughout the remainder of the fall and right on into the beginning of a probable harsh winter, there is always time to re-evaluate your closet and think about what timeless pieces you can sport to holiday parties. that time is now, ladies and gentlemen. it is important to consider what kind of event you are invited to, and ask yourself whether or not it’s formal

attire. remember to stop and think first, and do your research. this time of year can be quite magical, so be sure to have the best time, inside and out. men, it is all about sweaters this season. Long, oversized sweaters. the dominant colours you should be aware of are gray and deep purples. Forever 21 men has a wonderful shawl collar marled cardigan; it’s light gray and goes beyond one’s knees. this kind of oversized cardigan is great when paired

AWintry

MiX Colour of

Pictures for representation only

BY JOSEPH A. FEDERICO with a J.crEw button down in a solid colour, and a dark denim jean. no jewellery is necessary, seeing that your outfit is well thought out. Brown or black dress shoes will suffice just fine on your cold feet. if you are interested in staying warm whilst traveling to and from your events, check out beautifully crafted overcoats by designer rad hourani. he has been on the scene since 2007, and works predominately with men’s clothing. you will be the talk of your party when entering the room in a custom-esque hourani.

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if you are interested in taking party fashions to another level, consider a funky gray suit by phillippe Dubuc.

his suits tend to be more tailored than others currently on the market, so be sure to take your measurements first. it is suggested to sport a solid button down underneath, and solid tie. if you are feeling rambunctious, wear a black screen printed t-shirt with lettering on it. Even in the colder months, wearing dress shoes without socks is acceptable. now ladies, what do you imagine yourself wearing to a wintry soiree? an oversized sweater, too, perhaps? Eileen Fisher offers a crème wool top that can be paired nicely with brown slacks and darker high heels. Be sure to

wear a pair of flesh coloured pantyhose with this number. if you are seeking out a fun dress look, try a dress by mercy. mercy’s flirty floral peasant-like dress is perfect for a small get together. wear your mercy dress with a black Ziliotto jacket. the shoes of choice should be sparkling flats.

Wishing All My Clients A Merry Xmas & A Happy NewYear!

and if you are feeling ambitious, try a manolo Blahnik boot. this season, they are the centerpiece to any outfit you pull from the closet. the fur tops and elegant bottoms make the perfect pair for a long night of dancing the night away. pair this with a black slack and eggshell blouse. Leave the shirt untucked, obviously. top the outfit out with a chunky necklace. necklaces this season will be animalistic and really go to the roots of human evolution. ralph Lauren offers shell, wood, and bone necklaces at reasonable prices for any budget. other jewellery you can easily mix and match with your party outfits are encrusted pave pinky rings by David yurman and wave Link bracelets by sidney Garber. Both look fine, trust us. other topcoat options include animal print patterns; they are designed to keep you looking stylish and keep you warm. ralph Lauren has a skunk-styled coat that works with any outfit; it is not too warm, either. how about a lighter zebra print jacket by celine? other brands to keep a keen eye out for are ca va de soi, mirabelli, and mackage. all truly fine choices in our party planning book. one more point we’d like to make, and that is about hair. hair for men should be a little shaggy and unkept. For woman, shorter hair is also in. somewhere between a pixie look and a bob. remember again to plan, plan and plan. Do your research as to what kind of soiree you will be heading to. it is also a smart idea to ask around, and see what your friends are wearing. ring in holidays in style, and be sure to check up on your latest fashions next time, only in Darpan magazine.

Having completed 25 successful years in the world of Real Estate, Pupinder Sandhu has garnered notable respect and repute as a sales representative at HomeLife Benchmark Titus Realty.

Pupinder Sandhu Cell: 604-329-7788 Tel.: 604-575-5262

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Joseph A. Federico Joseph Federico loves fashion, thanks in part to his mother exposing him to the wonders of the garment district at an early age. He has his own sense of style, and always has his finger on the pulse of the next big trend.

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DARPAN HEALTH

B AC Of

Hepatitis

BY CATHERINE BOCK

The word hepatitis, like many medical words, can be broken down into parts. The Greek term ‘hepar’ or ‘hepat’ means liver and the term ‘itis’ means inflammation. The

The Liver

term ‘Hepatitis’ means inflammation of the liver.

Let us first look at what the liver does.

Your liver is a large organ in the upper part of your abdomen. It has many jobs to do.

Most importantly, the liver helps to clean the blood of harmful substances. We say that the liver ‘detoxifies’ the blood. As well, the liver can provide the body with glucose for energy when we need it. It also makes certain proteins that make up the blood itself.

The liver also has a job to do in digestion because it makes bile from waste products produced when old red blood cells are destroyed to make room for new ones. The bile is then used to break down fats that we eat. This is a unique and natural recycling program! The liver has many jobs, so it is important that your liver stays healthy.

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The ABC’s of Hepatitis Body tissues become inflamed as a protection against a foreign substance or an injury. For instance, inflammation will happen if you cut yourself and the cut gets infected. The area around the cut will be red and swollen and hot. This helps to get the healing process underway, but it can also cause some damage in the area.

There are many ways by which the liver can become inflamed. We will go over some of the more common ones. Regardless of what causes inflammation of the liver (hepatitis), when the liver is inflamed it has a hard time doing the work it needs to do to keep the rest of the body healthy.

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Hepatitis caused by viruses, called viral hepatitis, is the most well-known type of hepatitis. Hepatitis A, B, and C are the most common types of viral hepatitis. We will look at these types in detail. There are other types of viral hepatitis and other non-viral causes of hepatitis, but we will not go over those.

About Hepatitis A The Hepatitis A virus is spread by the fecal ‒oral route. Poor washroom hygiene and lack of hand washing are often to blame.

Usually Hepatitis A is spread between people in the same household or by close contact

with someone with Hepatitis A. At times, a number of people may get sick with Hepatitis A if they have eaten at the same place. A restaurant worker infected with Hepatitis A may not have washed their hands well enough after going to the washroom and before going back to work.

In Canada, we have good sanitation and washroom facilities and we know about the importance of hand washing and safe food handling. This means that in Canada we have far less cases of Hepatitis A infection than in some other countries in the world. Way to go Canada!

What happens when a person

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has a Hepatitis A infection?

Hepatitis A infection will cause an acute (short term) illness, usually less than two months. People who get Hepatitis A will have a fever, feel tired and sick all over, lose their appetite, and feel sick to their stomach.

Because some of the substances that the liver usually cleans out of the blood remain, the urine may look dark and the skin may turn yellowish. This yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes is called jaundice. In people who have naturally dark skin, jaundice is easiest seen in the whites of the eyes.

In order to tell whether a person has a hepatitis infection and to figure out what type of hepatitis infection they have, blood tests will be done. These blood tests can also show whether the liver is inflamed or damaged.

Hepatitis A usually goes away once the infection has run its course. Hepatitis A does not cause chronic (long term) infection. This means that once the viral infection is gone, the liver does not continue to be affected.

While most people get over the infection, Hepatitis A can cause serious or lifethreatening illness, but this is unusual.

If a person has a Hepatitis A infection, they will be advised to get enough rest, eat well, drink plenty of fluids, and to not drink alcohol. The person’s current medications will need to be looked at because some medications are hard on the liver.

Certain herbal products and over the counter drugs, such as some pain killers, can also be hard on the liver, so it is important that the doctor, pharmacist or nurse know about the person’s use of these.

People that are infected with Hepatitis A will also need to be careful that they do not spread the virus to others. If a person is told they have been infected with Hepatitis A,

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What happens when a person

DARPAN HEALTH

has a Hepatitis B infection?

Quick facts on Hepatitis: they will be advised about how to prevent spreading the infection.

•

‘Hepatitis’ means inflammation of the liver.

•

One of the ways the liver can become inflamed is when it is infected with a virus.

•

Hepatitis A, B, and C are the most common types of viruses that cause hepatitis.

•

Hepatitis A is spread via the fecal-oral route; good washroom hygiene and sanitation are important.

•

People usually get over Hepatitis A after an acute (short term) illness much like the flu.

•

Hepatitis B and C are spread via blood and body fluids.

•

Hepatitis B and C can cause chronic (long term) infection which may cause serious liver damage.

•

People with chronic Hepatitis B or C infections may not know that they are infected.

•

There is a vaccine for Hepatitis A and B, but not for Hepatitis C .

•

In Canada, children are vaccinated against Hepatitis B in school.

•

Ask your doctor, pharmacist or public health nurse about the Hepatitis A or B vaccine.

•

Healthlink BC website is a great place to get more information; or you can talk to a nurse by phoning 8-1-1.

Can Hepatitis A be prevented?

Most importantly, the spread of Hepatitis A can be prevented by good hand washing after using the washroom and by safe food handling. As well, Hepatitis A infection can be prevented by vaccine. If you want to know more about the Hepatitis A vaccine, especially if you are travelling to a country where more Hepatitis A infections happen, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or public health nurse.

The website Healthlink BC is a great place to go to for information. You can also call 8-1-1 anytime to talk to a nurse. If a person has had a Hepatitis A infection before, then their body has likely built up an immunity and they are protected against getting it again.

About Hepatitis B The Hepatitis B virus is spread in different ways than the Hepatitis A virus. Hepatitis B is most commonly spread by sexual intercourse with an infected person, sharing needles used for injection of drugs, or sharing items such as razors and toothbrushes used by an infected person. Health care workers are at risk because of the possibility of injury with used needles or contact with blood or body fluids in other ways. Casual contact, such as hugging and shaking hands with an infected person, does not spread the infection.

In Canada, infection with Hepatitis B is decreasing because vaccination against Hepatitis B is given to children in schools.

Health care workers and other people at risk will also get vaccinated. This is good news.

The bad news is that there are many people infected with Hepatitis B in Canada that do not

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know they are carrying the virus. As well, there are countries that do not vaccinate against Hepatitis B routinely, so people from those countries who come to Canada could be a source of infection. These people may not even know that they are carrying the virus.

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A person can be infected with Hepatitis B and not feel sick. Or the person might feel like they have a bad flu, not unlike described above for Hepatitis A. The symptoms, if they happen, can take months to appear.

Hepatitis B infection may or may not cause yellowing of the skin (jaundice). The Hepatitis B infection will often go away on its own, but the infection can hang on and cause a chronic (long-term) infection. In this case, the chronic infection can damage the liver. This may lead to liver disease or liver cancer. The person who is infected may not know it until serious problems happen years later.

If a person finds out that they have a Hepatitis B infection, treatment will depend on whether the infection is acute (short term) or chronic (long term). An acute Hepatitis B infection may go away on its own, so medical advice will be much like for Hepatitis A. It is particularly important that the person knows how to help their body fight the infection and knows how to prevent the spread to others.

If a person finds out that they have a chronic hepatitis B infection, they may receive treatment with virus-fighting medicines or medicines that boost the body’s ability to fight the infection. This can reduce damage to the liver, liver disease, or liver cancer. The treatment can also help prevent the spread to others. Unfortunately, once a person has a chronic Hepatitis B infection they cannot be cured of it. In some cases, people may receive a liver transplant if their liver is not working due to liver disease.

Can Hepatitis B be prevented?

It is not always easy to prevent the spread of Hepatitis B because people may not know that they are infected. The best prevention is vaccination. You can ask your doctor, pharmacist or public health nurse about the Hepatitis B vaccine.

If you or others in your family are concerned that they may be infected with the Hepatitis B virus because they have not been vaccinated, or they have been in close contact with someone that has Hepatitis B, then talk to your doctor or a public health nurse. You can learn more about Hepatitis B

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DARPAN HEALTH and the risk of infection from the Healthlink BC website or by calling 8-1-1 to speak to a nurse.

About Hepatitis C

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According to the information on the Healthlink BC website, about one in 100 people are infected with the Hepatitis C virus. The Hepatitis C virus is usually spread by direct entry into the blood. A common way for this to happen is sharing of needles when people use drugs that go right into a vein. As well, dirty tattoo and body piercing equipment can spread the infection. Health care workers are at risk for Hepatitis C infection due to needle stick injuries. Years ago, blood transfusions could spread the infection. In Canada now blood is screened carefully and the chance of this is slim.

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People infected with Hepatitis C will often not know that they have the infection until serious problems arise due to liver damage. Some people can fight the infection and get rid of it, but unfortunately in most cases the infection will become chronic (long term). Treatment for Hepatitis C, while not easy for the infected person, can help clear the virus from the body and prevent further spread. If a person has a chronic Hepatitis C infection, liver damage can be severe over time.

Can Hepatitis C be prevented?

Unfortunately, there is currently no vaccine for Hepatitis C. Prevention of spread is most important. People who use injection drugs must be especially careful, as do those people who handle needles and other sharps. If people who are infected are treated successfully, the spread of the virus will decrease.

So now you know the ABC’s of hepatitis. We need to keep our livers healthy so they can do the jobs they were designed to do. The more we know about our bodies, the healthier we will be.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Catherine Bock believes in helping people take control of, and improve their health by understanding risks and ways to decrease those risks. She teaches pathophysiology in the B.Sc of Nursing program at Kwantlen Polytechnic University. For more information or references for this article, please contact Catherine at: catherine.bock@kpu.ca

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w

e’re racing toward the wet and chilly months of winter, so it’s probably a good time to start thinking about how you’re going to take your workout indoors once the weather turns. when it comes to building an at-home gym, a lot of people think they have to go out and buy a multi-thousand dollar piece of equipment. if you have the budget and space for it, that’s certainly an option, but the truth is that with just a few key items, you can bring everything home that you

need to get a great workout. in fact, you might already have a number of these things lying around.

1

as far as versatility goes, nothing beats a pair of dumbbells. there are seemingly an endless number of workouts that they provide, and even with just one, you can apply strength training to pretty much every muscle in your body. you can get a set of non-adjustable dumbbells, but as you build your strength you’re going to want to be able to add more weight. From there, simply search the web for videos that show how to work out different muscles.

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thinGs YOU NEED FOR

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BY NICK HILDEN

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Adjustable dumbbells

Treadmill, elliptical and stationary bike

many people find it difficult to get in cardio during the winter because they don’t want to go outside and it’s hard to move around enough to get your heart really pumping when you’re stuck inside. the easy solution is a treadmill, elliptical, or stationary bike.

For some people, these options might be out of your budget or be too big for your living space (although there are a number of stationary bikes on the market that take up virtually no space, and most treadmills can be folded and tucked out of the way). if you’re worried about the cost, check craigslist or any other classified ads. i once purchased a perfectly good treadmill for $50. i just had to move it myself.

Jump rope what’s the alternative to a costly, spaceconsuming machine? a jump rope! you can get them for as affordably as $5 or as much as $50, depending on whether or not you want features such as weighted handles or electronic progress monitors. and a jump rope is an excellent tool for achieving cardio.

Pull-up bar a lot of people avoid doing push-ups because they can be really hard to do, but let me remind you of something – the whole point of exercise is to push your body beyond its comfort zone. that’s where the gains come from. pull-ups are great for working out your entire

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Navdy Experience futuristic head-up display (HUD) for your automobile commute with Navdy. No more do you have to get distracted or rather tempted by text messages and calls on your cell phone while driving. The device rests on your dashboard with a high resolution projector giving driving directions and notifications on a transparent background so you don’t have to take your eyes off the road. Although this isn’t the first HUD device developed, it is the first to simplify user interface (UI). Unlike previous HUDs where information was reflected from your phone screen to windscreen, Navdy uses its own glass that is placed away from the windscreen. You can also communicate with Navdy using voice command and hand gestures. Navdy can be pre-ordered online for USD $299.

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HOME

What's

“For colours, jewel or earth tones,” will be popular, says Sarah Gallop, Principal Designer at Sarah Gallop Design Inc. “Navy is a great

Trending ?

‘neutral’. I think [it] is a great addition to just about any scheme. It’s very luxurious.”

decorators trying new things this coming year – especially when it comes to colour.

There seem to be no real rules to follow or ignore as colours will contrast and contradict each other to create combinations that work.

“For colours, jewel or earth tones,” will be popular, says Sarah Gallop, Principal Designer at Sarah Gallop Design Inc. “Navy is a great ‘neutral’. I think [it] is a great addition to just about any scheme. It’s very rends are changing faster than luxurious.”

And luxury and drama will certainly be ever due to advancements in technology and accessibility to in this coming year with bold statements new materials. The instantaneous and being made with the use of colour. While influx of information from our online white is still riding high, black is back connections have given rise to a fast for dramatic effect. Black tiles are being changing home decor market where a used across kitchens and bathrooms in colour, pattern or material can instantly a glamourous fashion with dark feature walls creating a neutral yet sophisticated take off and become trendy.

This rapidly revolving door has led to and modern canvas.

Look for these bold but simple colour styles that come and go quickly but also to an increased acceptance of a variety schemes to be mixed with fresh tones or of different decor ideas. 2016 will lead to soft, subtle pastels. Pinks in hues of tissue less emphasis on one particular style or beige will pair well while indigo and resulting in homes that incorporate the denim will be big in blues.

Pantone, the self-appointed authority multitude of inspirations that designers on colour, included “Mixed Bag” as one of weren’t previously privy to.

Instead of cookie-cutter interiors their key colour palettes for 2016. and limiting guidelines, the theory that Described as “an assortment of eclectic ‘everything goes’ will see many happy patterns and prints” and including blacks,

By Ashley Stephens

A look at the dark, dramatic, cozy and colourful styles you’ll see in 2016.

T

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reds, violets and orange, this palette plays to the theory that excitement is in style and mixing it up is on trend. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mixed materials is going to be increasingly popular â&#x20AC;&#x201C; combinations of wood, metals, glass,â&#x20AC;? Gallop says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If building or renovating, the trends can be incorporated into material selections, or fixtures,â&#x20AC;? she advises. Picture your new kitchen with a marble countertop skimming the surface of a wooden

butchers block sitting simultaneously below glass cabinets under the glow of a brass lighting fixture. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Heavier textured materials, graphic prints on fabrics or wallpapers, and geometricsâ&#x20AC;? will all be big in 2016, adds Gallop. Allow yourself to swoon over geometric tiles as you picture them adding personality to your backsplash or a flourish below your feet.

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Visual interest can be created by incorporating texture, pattern and a variety of materials. Adding throw pillows is one way, Gallop suggests, to keep your abode on trend, and decor for the upcoming year is making it easy for homeowners to update in style. Sofas with mismatched cushions, upholstery and textiles play well to the theme of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;anything goesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; as any pattern, pop of colour or unusual print youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve

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Luxury and drama will certainly be in this coming year with bold statements being made with the use of colour. While white

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walls creating a neutral yet sophisticated and modern canvas. been eyeing up can make its home in your house in the form of a cushion. It’s a low cost and quick change that allows you to keep your home feeling fresh and up-todate.

Floral patterns are back in bloom but instead of the soft, frilly flowers that undoubtedly adorned your bedspreads, armchairs and too many walls in your childhood home, the florals of the future are darker, more dramatic, and often come packed with a punch of colour.

“It’s easy to add fabrics and wallpapers to enhance existing schemes,” says Gallop.

With florals and geometrics gaining in popularity, it’s easier than ever to find the perfect pattern for an outdated space.

Gold made a comeback in recent years and it continues to kick around. When mixed with white or modern patterns, it’s become a desired addition without feeling dated.

Metallics continue to bring an interesting element to an otherwise lacklustre space.

While technology may be fuelling and fast-tracking some of the trendier pieces you put in your home, it may also inspire you to pull away from staring at your screen all day. Instead of over-sharing, we’ll crave solitude, creating places of sanctuary that don’t require us to put in much effort. We’ll ditch the desire for perfect and choose to be comfortable instead. The focus previously put on entertaining and impressing will give way to new spaces designed for reconnecting and reenergizing.

Whether it’s a bold renovation or a few colourful, textured accessories, you can spruce up your home, mix and match your paints and patterns and start the new year off in a stylish way.

“A positive attitude causes a chain reaction of positive thoughts, events and outcomes. It is a catalyst and it sparks extraordinary results. ” - Wade Boggs

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Weddings

j a r m I & a i n o S BC , k c o R White

We were given this advice on our honeymoon from a couple who has been married for 20 years ~ Never stop dating your spouse.

A: We became friends through Facebook.

Q: What do you love most about one another?

A: We both love that we have a good sense of humour, we don’t take ourselves too seriously and that’s why we mesh so well with one another.

Q: Could you share your proposal story?

Sonia: I had previously mentioned to Imraj that, as a child, I had a really fond memory with my family at Deep Cove. One day he decided that he wanted to take me on a picnic, he did not tell me where but as we got closer he told me

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that we were going to Deep Cove.

We set up our picnic; he forgot the blankets in the car and was taking a very long time to get them. I was beginning to get a little impatient wondering why it took him so long.

He began to lay the blankets down on the grass and suddenly said, “Ouch there’s a rock in my shoe”.

Before I knew it, he was on one knee and had taken the “rock” out

of his shoe. He asked me to marry him and of course I said yes!

Q: Describe your wedding day. What was your favourite moment?

A: Sitting next to each other at the Gurdwara knowing that this was the moment that we had been waiting for.

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Weddings www.amastermedia.com Q: Could you tell us about your reception?

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Imraj: I wore a custom-made achkan from Frontier.

It was of a champagne colour with antique gold embroidery, my plum-coloured pagg and paala coordinated quite nicely. Sonia wore a custom-made lehenga from Frontier, champagne blouse with antique gold embroidery on the sleeves and the back. Her net chooni was very simple and matched her plumcoloured lehenga the old Mughal look.

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A: We were given this advice on our honeymoon from a couple who has been married for 20 years Never stop dating your spouse.

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ACTIVITIES

Canyon Lights Besides the joy of seeing the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Park transform into a winter wonderland with hundreds of thousands of fairy lights, this is the place to go if you want to see the world’s tallest living Christmas tree. Other holiday fun includes holiday card making, sing-alongs with the band and decorating gingerbread cookies. Canyon Lights in North Vancouver runs from November 27 to January 3, with holiday activities beginning at 4 pm.

VANCOUVER

HOLIDAY

Guide

Vancouver Christmas Market

BY TARANA RANA

M

Get pumped for the holidays at Vancouver’s Christmas Market at the Queen Elizabeth Plaza downtown. This annual affair has tons of great food and drinks, holiday

Disney On Ice: Frozen

entertainment for the entire family and a Kid’s Market – where the little ones can

Frozen fans rejoice! The beloved Disney movie hits the ice this holiday season and is sure to

make their own Christmas gifts and take a

bring some holiday cheer to young and old alike. See familiar characters like the ice queen Elsa,

ride on the Christmas Carousel. It’s also a

quirky Anna and the hilarious snowman Olaf up-close and in person as they whiz through winter

great place to get started on that Christmas

wonderland. It’ll also feature hit songs like ‘Let It Go’ and ‘Do You Want To Build A Snowman’.

list. It runs from November 21 to December

Frozen runs through Nov 25 to 29, at the Pacific Coliseum in Vancouver.

24 daily, from 11 am to 9pm.

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ark your calendars – the holiday season is upon us and the city is abuzz with events and activities galore. Bundle up, grab your loved ones and get ready for some holiday fun. Here are some you can’t miss:

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Santa Claus Parade The Annual Rogers Santa Claus Parade is a classic holiday staple. With marching bands galore, choirs and floats with festive displays and classic holiday characters, this is one Christmas spectacle you wouldn’t want to miss.

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Heritage Christmas For an old-timey Christmas, head out to the Burnaby Village Museum and see this heritage village decked out with fairy lights and vintage-themed displays. Take a ride on the carousel, visit Father Christmas and go on the Twelve Days of Christmas scavenger hunt. That’s not all – there is also storytelling, crafts and baking sessions for the children. Heritage Christmas runs from November 21 to December 11 in Burnaby.

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The ships are decked out with lights and holiday-themed decorations and make a sight to remember.

Meet Scuba Claus A visit to the Vancouver Aquarium is always good fun – but it gets even better during the holidays.

An outdoor maze of Christmas trees, a visit by

Carol Ships Parade of Lights

Scuba Claus as he swims through an aquatic exhibit and story time with Scuba elves is just the beginning. You can also hop on board the Polar

For a unique (and free) holiday tradition in Vancouver, be sure to catch the Carol Ships Parade

Express – a 4D experience of a magical journey

of Lights. These ships are decked out with lights and holiday-themed decorations and make

to the North Pole. Holidays at the Aquarium runs

a sight to remember. It runs from December 4 to December 23 and a list of optimal viewing

from November 27 – January 4, Scuba Claus visits

sites can be found at their website, carolships.org.

are scheduled at 11.30 am daily during these dates.

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TRAVEL

Paradise awaits:

BY joseph A. federico

Punta Cana

W

ith its white sandy beaches, and friendly local personality, you cannot go wrong with a trip to Punta Cana. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in the heart of the Dominican Republic, and is the perfect location to get away from the humdrum of your busy everyday life.

Punta Cana surely has activities to satisfy even the heaviest of travelers.

Getting There

If you are in the United States, there are not too many options to choose from when traveling to the paradise that is Punta Cana. If you are in the New York metro areas, LaGuardia or

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In the heart of Dominican Republic, PuntaCana is the perfect location to get away from the humdrum of your busy everyday life.

John F. Kennedy Airports are you safest bets. Besides, fares are decently priced this time of year, and as a matter of fact, flights are slightly shorter than average.

Flying to and from the Manhattan, New York City area will take you about two to three hours maximum, without any stops. If you want to take your time, a one-stop flight may also be desirable.

From Toronto, Canada, a flight from Toronto Pearson International Airport is not that expensive either. Flights from YYZ generally are about four hours. Air Transat and WestJet have the most bang for your buck, too.

When you land in Punta Cana, you travel back to the 1960s, in the best possible way that is. Your jet lands

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outside of a humble airport, where you are greeted by friendly ladies in traditional garb; they place fresh leis on your shoulders, and send you on your way with a kiss on your cheek. That is just the beginning.

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The restaurants range from traditional to international flares. Be sure to call at least a day in advance for reservations. For instance, at the French seating, you will find roast duck with plum sauce, escargot, and other treats at your fingertips.

Another great feature of the resort is open breakfast times. Breakfast is usually served until about 11 am; it is served buffet style.

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There are many reasonably-priced resorts in Punta Cana, most of which have all-inclusive options. This is recommended. You pay once, and do not have to worry about travelerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cheques or carrying cash for the duration of your vacation. One of the best resorts is Melia Caribe Tropical.

The layout of the grounds, private rooms, and even check in is very open. Breeze flows through windows effortlessly, and laughs waft freely. Your mini refrigerator is well stocked with alcoholic beverages for the taking, and fresh flowers await you at every corner.

Every hour or so, after every resort event, the staff invites passersby to dance with them; this ups the anti on engagement and allows for guests to interact.

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Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

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The resort serves an omelet bar with a full line of toppings, fresh fruit, and even flan.

Flan for breakfast? Yes! Take in the beach during the day, and go out dancing at night. There is a local discothèque within walking distance of all rooms; they play Hispanic music and top 40 hits from back home.

If you like to test your luck, there is also a casino by the restaurants. The Egyptian slot machines are a guest favourite. And hey, if you still are not satisfied with the nightlife, there are Broadway-esque shows that play nightly on the main stage.

Some shows the cast and crew have performed are Les Miserables and Evita. They even anticipate crowd participation, so being your dancing shoes and singing voice. Do not forget that yes, even after these productions, the resort plays their favourite song, and invites guests to dance up on stage to round the night out.

Drinks are divine. Cerveza, Spanish for beer, is served at all swim up pool bars, and might we suggest the melon daiquiri. Those are made from fresh melon grown on the property, and local alcohol. The daiquiri tastes like candy, so be careful; you can climb to cloud nine quickly.

If you want a day to just relax – as if you have not already – take a walk down the beach. Vendors will be waiting for you, and

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are ready to take part in a friendly haggle.

Homemade jewellery, clothing and dresses, shoes, and even miniature dolls and music CDs are sold from all walks of local life. Be sure to bring cash for souvenirs here; the American and Canadian dollar are accepted.

Other shopping options outside of the resort area are the Palma Real Shopping Village, and the San Juan Shopping Center.

Both tourist locations have shops that cater to all tastes. Luxury shopping for new clothes for your next vacation, or grabbing a generously portioned bite to eat will certainly occur at the aforementioned locations.

If fine dining is what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re seeking, and do not have time stop at a restaurant at the resort, head to the Gabi Club or Balicana Asian Food. Be sure to dress to the nines at either location. Drinks will flow freely.

Bring your appetite.

Have we convinced you to take a trip to Punta Cana yet? Get to booking, and let us know how you enjoyed it.

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2016

BY BenjAMin Yong

LINCOLN D

uring a media presentation in Quebec’s old Montreal district, Lincoln product manager carole Wilson succinctly summed up the redesigned 2016 Lincoln MKX with two words: “Quiet Luxury.”

What did she mean by that, exactly? The luxury crossover returns with significant, yet

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subtle improvements and additions endowing the vehicle with its smoothest and most comfortable ride yet. And it looks better, to boot.

Wilson says the new MKX has a “longer, lower and leaner stance,” which is pretty obvious if you compare it against last year’s model.

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The roofline is a good 230 millimetres lower than before, creating a sportier, hunkereddown appearance.

The signature split-wing grille has been ever so slightly stretched out and massaged to flow better into the adaptive “blade” headlights that have adopted the latest Led technology – each headlamp contains 37 Led bulbs.

To get a better sense of the many interior and performance upgrades, the event moved from the hotel basement up to street level where journalists were able to take the MKXs onto wide-open country highways as well as narrow cobblestone village streets. one thing the midsize sUV has always done well is

greeting drivers with friendly welcome lighting as they approach, and for 2016, the process is refined even further. sensors detect your key fob within approximately three metres and trigger the Led daytime running lights, and then the Lincoln logo is projected at your feet from underneath the folding side mirrors, followed by soft door handle illumination. A similar sequential lighting experience happens when you get inside too.

Before pressing the start button, i familiarized myself with a couple of things, like the equipped 22-way front seats with Active Motion. Motors in the cushion continuously provide gentle stimulation to

PHOTO (red car): benjamin yOng

MKX

Auto

TOYOTA

reduce back pain and fatigue. i opted to turn on the full massage function – available for both driver and passenger – during the trip.

After i had the seating sorted, i turned my attention to the optional revel audio system. depending on your package, 13 or 19 speakers flood the cabin with clear sound and punchy bass at any speed, thanks to all the sound insulation and the acoustic glass windshield. it was time to fire up the engine. returning is the 3.7-litre, 303-horsepower V6, but in my tester was the new 2.7-litre twin turbo ecoBoost V6 churning out 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. Unlike some of the other ecoBoost powerplants installed across the ford lineup, the one installed in the MKX runs in a whisper-quiet manner, helped no doubt by some of the noise insulation touched upon earlier. no matter your choice of powerplant, a six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive are standard. A thoughtful transmission addition is Auto hold, which when activated, keeps the vehicle stationary without having to hold down the brake pedal. i found myself enjoying this feature in some of the stop-and-go traffic in town, pressing the accelerator to inch forward and then being able to freely release my foot afterwards.

After approaching one of our destinations, i discovered one more piece of particularly useful technology. An available 360-degree camera system makes parking the crossover a much easier process than it might otherwise be. You can see over two metres in every direction on the display, and in very james Bond fashion, the front camera is hidden inside an electronically articulating front Lincoln badge. if you want to let the computer do the heavy lifting for you, there is perpendicular, parallel, and even park out assist.

The 2016 Lincoln MKX is built in oakville, on, and comes in select and reserve trim levels. prices start at $45,890.

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2016

HIGHLIGHTS

Auto

M AZ DA

MX-5 MIATA

BY BenjAMin Yong

W

ith today’s stringent safety regulations and emphasis on technology-driven creature comforts, it’s almost a given that any new generation of a particular model of vehicle is going to be bigger and heavier than the last. not the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata.

Both lighter and smaller than ever expected, buyers can finally start getting

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their hands on the fourth iteration of the legendary roadster first teased to the world last year. one of the final badges in the current Mazda lineup to get the efficient sKYAcTiV/flowing Kodo soul of Motion makeover, enthusiasts will be pleased to see that while almost all the styling is drastically different, the “smiley face” front bumper opening has been

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MSRP: $32,200 Motor: 2.0 L SKYACTIV-G 4-cylinder Horsepower: 155 @ 6,000 rpm Torque (lb-ft): 148 @ 4,600 rpm Gearbox: Six-speed manual transmission Layout: Front engine, rear-wheel drive Fuel economy: 9.3 L/100 km mixed city/highway (observed)

retained. during my time with a Blue reflex Mica press vehicle in gT trim, i came across a 1990 to 1997 nA chassis, and of course i just had to line them up side-by-side. Then came the shocking revelation: the new nd is actually shorter than the original, by about 33 millimetres (and shorter than the outgoing model, by 81 mm), although it does look significantly more muscular and filled out.

The 2016 has made bold moves in the interior as well. previous Miatas all had similar layouts: the classic multidial instrument cluster with a front and center oil pressure gauge, the centre cubby harbouring a fuel door release lever stealthily hidden inside. neither of those exists anymore – hit the door unlock switch to release the gas lid.

To keep the weight down, there aren’t very many heavy electrically-assisted

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creature comforts. power windows, sure, but in true throwback fashion, seat adjustment and even the top is completely manual. i was at first taken a little aback by the absence of the power retractable hardtop that i grew quite fond of during the last go-round, until a colleague assured me the soft top operation is not like what i was imagining. on the original nA, putting up the top usually involved getting out of the car, hoisting it up, getting back in the car and then securing two spring latches. now, you can release the single clasp, reach behind you while still sitting in the driver’s seat, and fling the lightweight top one-handed and clamp it down, all in a matter of seconds. press the engine start button and the twin tailpipes at the rear emit a pleasant burst of sound as the sKYAcTiV-g 2.0-litre four cylinder engine fires up. Miatas have always blessed drivers with great ergonomics and seating position, and this one is no different.

The hood is lower than before, so all you see are the creased ridges flaring up on either side. The wheel, shifter and pedals are situated where it feels perfect when your hands and feet are at the ready.

A lot of naysayers say, “oh, well it’s only got 155 horsepower.” And yes, that’s true.

Let’s not forget that Mazda has managed to drop about 68 kilograms of weight, making it only about 83 kg heavier than the first gen. The motor is situated lower and deeper in the engine bay, giving the car an uncanny feeling of balance when you’re pivoting the car around corners.

The nd begs to be revved up and tossed around. it’s not a loud car, but the highpitched whine of the engine is paired perfectly to rapidly rising rpms, providing peak power at 6,000. And no matter how much i wringed it out in city or on long stretches of highway, the fuel consumption never crept past 9.3 L/100 km. The suspension set up is familiar: double wishbone front and rear multi-link that is smooth and always surefooted.

The base gX trim starts at $31,900, and the grade-topping gT is priced at $39,200.

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Auto

CHECK!

IS YOUR VEHICLE

WINTERREADY?

Winter tires The single most crucial safety factor is the condition of your tires. Winter tires are recommended for the season, identifiable by a symbol on the sidewall that looks like a snowflake inside a mountain. The problem with commonly-run all season tires is that they start to lose traction and flexibility as the temperature dips down to 7 C, which is when winter rubber performs at its best.

Experts share tips to prepare your car for the cold months ahead.

A

s we head into the heart of winter, chillier and wetter conditions are inevitable – and even though it’s the Lower Mainland, you never know when we might get a surprise bout of the frozen white stuff. To avoid being stuck out in the cold on the side of the road, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for the frigid conditions.

We asked the experts to share their top tips on getting your vehicle winter-ready now, as well as what essential items you should be carrying in your car, just in case.

Lights Ensure all exterior lights are functioning. Proper operation of the headlights will signal to pedestrians and other vehicles on the road that you are approaching them, and will also assist you in seeing where you are going. Brake lights alert drivers behind you that you are stopping, and turn signals are self-explanatory but are additionally responsible for acting as your hazard lights in emergencies.

BY BenjAMin Yong

Windshield wipers Make it a habit to regularly check your windshield wiper blades ‒ we tend to forget about these until we need them. When wiping across the glass, there shouldn’t be any streaking or rubbing noises. Ideally replace the blades once in the winter and again in the spring.

Most dealerships will help you install them after purchase, and it takes only a few minutes.

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Fluids Something overlooked quite often is fluid levels.

Antifreeze, engine and transmission oil and power steering and windshield washer fluid should all be inspected. The only protection your car’s engine has against cold and freezing is the antifreeze, therefore it is very important to follow the recommendations laid out in the owner’s manual. Remember to always let the radiator cool down before working on it.

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Winter jacket Even if you don’t have one on when driving, it is advisable to carry a warm jacket in your vehicle during the frigid months. This will shield you from the elements if you need to leave the vehicle in an emergency situation, or if you experience a breakdown and have to walk.

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Boots and gloves To go with a coat, bring along some comfortable and waterproof winter boots that will keep your feet dry and insulated while you’re facing the elements.

Don’t forget about your other set of extremities. Like boots, a good pair of waterproof/windproof gloves will protect your hands if you have to brush snow off your windshield or sit in the cold waiting for a tow truck.

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Blanket The versatile blanket is always a good idea to keep in the hatch or trunk in any season. You can roll it up to create a makeshift seat, or wrap it around yourself for a more traditional use. Many people are partial to the foldable heat-reflective survival blankets that reflect up to 90 percent of body heat, also known as space blankets.

Non-perishable food and water Having some compact, nutritious and storable food on hand comes in handy no matter the occasion.

For example, granola bars take up very little room and can provide a good source for energy in case you get stuck or stranded. Pack some drinking water, too.

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2015 2016 HIGHLIGHTS

MSRP: $35,717

Horsepower: 193 net @ 6,000 rpm Torque (lb-ft): 140 (gasoline)/ 151 (electric)

Sonata Hybrid

Gearbox: Six-speed automatic Layout: Front engine, front-wheel drive Fuel economy: 7.0 L/100 km mixed city/highway (observed)

Y

ou know that weird sensation you get when you can feel someone’s eyeballs on the side of your head? i felt that, and felt it often whenever i was driving down the street – in a hyundai.

This is a special hyundai, though. An elegant, sophisticated-looking hyundai.

A practical, comfortable hyundai. But most importantly, a very fuel-efficient, hybrid hyundai. That’s right, i’m talking about the 2016 sonata hybrid.

Announced at the north American international Auto show at the beginning of the year, the Korean automaker takes the seventh-gen version of the midsize sedan and adds a few visual and aerodynamic bells and whistles along with revised internals that improves upon fuel economy by 10 percent compared to

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Motor: 38 kW electric + 2.0 L “Nu” GDI four-cylinder gasoline engine

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BY BenjAMin Yong the outgoing part-electric model. some of those exterior enhancements include a literal facelift: a larger grille now features chrome slats with an embedded emblem; the bumper has a built-in front splitter with slimmer fog lamps integrated into the air intakes; the headlights and

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taillights have been redesigned for a sleeker look. The five-spoke “blade” wheels are also unique to the hybrid variant, as are two new colours including the graphite Blue pearl that was sprayed on my Limited trim test vehicle, and a nifty off-white seaport Mist.

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The inside feels much more luxurious than what would be expected from its starting price point of $29,649. An available panoramic moonroof spans almost the entire area above your head, and all the materials have a quality feel to them. even the seatbelt buckles are hefty, so much so that when i was driving with the front windows down, the passenger-side unit would cause a ruckus while it flopped around against the b-pillar from the wind buffeting. hyundai says all the changes have lowered the vehicle’s coefficient of drag to 0.24, identical to the Tesla Model s. The car looks long and stretched out, which is no illusion. This sonata has grown by 34 millimetres in length and 10 mm in width, giving passengers more lounging room. in addition, a uniquely shaped lithium-ion battery pack is able to rest underneath the trunk floor giving full use of the cargo area and even allows the rear seats to fold. people who have driven other hybrids on the market with compromised trunk space will acknowledge this as a rare and celebrated feature.

What has shrunk, however, is the engine displacement from a 2.4-litre to the current 2.0 L found in the “nu” four-cylinder gasoline direct injection (gdi) powerplant. A lighter, heartier 38-kilowatt electric motor helps the sedan achieve a net horsepower of 193. for the best performance response, you can activate sport mode providing additional get-up-and-go, but the sound entering the cabin at the peak 6,000-rpm power band does err on the side of whiny.

The manufacturer’s estimated fuel economy rating in mixed city and highway driving is approximately 5.6 L/100 km, and although i wasn’t able to quite match that figure, i still achieved a better than expected 7.0 L/100 km, especially for a car of this size.

The 2016 hyundai sonata hybrid is available in stores now, with a plug-in version to follow shortly.

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BY shWeTA KULKArni

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FROM ACTOR TO PRODUCER:

RAJAT

BEDI

Bollywood actor Rajat Bedi talks about his transition from India to Canada, his new role as the producer of TV show Lajwanti, and future plans.

BY NERISSA JAWANDA

A

fter being away from the Indian entertainment industry for many years, actor Rajat Bedi is now back in a new role – that of a producer. He has worked in over 40 Bollywood films, starting with 2001: Do Hazaar Ek (1998) starring Tabu, International Khiladi (1999) with Askhay Kumar, Rocky (2006), Ans (2002), and the Hrithik Roshan-starrer Koi... Mil Gaya (2003) – a role which he is remembered for.

P h oto : R a j at B e d i

Bedi’s family has been involved in the film business since three generations. His late grandfather, Rajinder Singh Bedi, was an influential writer. He was one of the greatest 20th century progressive writers of Urdu fiction, having written many famous films, short stories, and plays including his famous drama, Khawaja Sara. He has written dialogues for Devdas (1955), dialogues for most of Hrishikesh Mukherjee

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films like Abhimaan (1973), and has written famous stories like Ek Chadar Maili Si. Bedi’s father, late Narendra Bedi, produced and directed major Bollywood blockbusters such as Jawani Diwani (1972) starring Randhir Kapoor, Khote Sikkay (1974)

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darPaN EXCLUSIVE Why did you decide to produce Lajwanti?

Late Rajinder Singh Bedi

story that sheds light on the issue of silence surrounding survivors of violence.

The actor-turned-producer is co-producing this project with his international partners, Monty Sikka and Daljit Thind, who together have also produced Punjab 1984 and Sardaar Ji under Dalmora Entertainment.

In an exclusive interview, Bedi shares with DARPAN his transition from India to Canada, his new role as the producer of Lajwanti, and his future plans.

“Lajwanti is a beautiful love story written by my grandfather with a backdrop of partition.

It was my grandfather’s dream to make Lajwanti when he was alive, but unfortunately he couldn’t do that.” starring Feroz Khan, Benaam (1974) and Adalat (1977) starring Amitabh Bachchan, Rafoo Chakkar (1975) starring Rishi Kapoor, and many others.

At present, Vancouver-based Bedi is working behind the camera on his new series Lajwanti, along with his international partners, Dalmora Entertainment. He and his sister, Ila Bedi Datta, have adapted their late grandfather’s book into a TV show.

Lajwanti is a story set during the 1947 partition, a time with a high incidence of women being abducted and treated violently. The story revolves around a loving husband whose wife goes missing during the conflict. It is a beautiful and emotional

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How has your transition to Canada been? Why did you decide to move here?

I had shot for a couple of movies over here.

I did a movie with Akshay Kumar and Twinkle Khanna called International Khiladi (1999) and that was my first experience here. We shot in Toronto, Calgary, Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise and I was blown away by Canada. I was at the Rocky Mountains and saw how beautiful everything was. I was like ‘I would love to live here one day – I want to stay longer.’

It was a long schedule and the whole unit of 100 people from India was tired and wanting to go back because they were homesick. They wanted to go back, but I was like, ‘no, no, let’s stay more, let’s say more.’ It was breathtaking. So, that was the start of my relationship with Canada.

Do you plan on moving back to India?

That’s a tough one. I don’t know.

There’s a lot of work happening in India, but also a lot of work happening here, so it all depends.

I’m constantly juggling between the two – every month I’m flying to India because of my production.

Right now I’m just going with it.

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Lajwanti was one of my grandfather’s subjects which was very close to his heart.

He had experienced this moment during partition, when women were abducted, raped and thrown back into India. It’s about the dilemma of women who had nothing to do with the violence, who were ill-treated, and how their husbands reacted and accepted them or not. And there is romance between characters. So this is a beautiful love story written by my grandfather with a backdrop of partition. It was my grandfather’s dream to make Lajwanti when he was alive, but unfortunately he couldn’t do that. My sister has his whole library of work and thought it would be very unique and classic for

the audience and adapted it. When Zee TV heard the narration on the subject, they loved it for the audience and that’s how we got together.

Has the response been what you expected?

It’s very beautiful. I’m ecstatic with the responses.

It’s the first time I’m doing something like this and it’s fantastic, it’s unbelievable. People are loving the show. It is kind of creating history in the television business because it’s a show that is far apart from the regular kind of shows that come on TV. It’s completely different from the regular shows.

How is working with family for the series?

I work with my sister. She is huge in the television business. For the past 20 years, she’s been writing for the television industry and has written various shows like Des Mein Niklla Hoga Chand and Mehndi Tere Naam Ki on the television front, and has written Karan Johar’s blockbuster film Agneepath (2012). She is also writing Karan Johar’s forthcoming project, Dhyan Chand. She’s best at what she does, and obviously has got my grandfather’s blessing, talent and blood.

What is your favourite part of working in the movie and television industry?

The ability to perform and emote and the respect that comes along with it is what I love about this industry. I’m sincerely looking forward to making films and television shows, and acting because I truly believe that’s where I belong.

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Do you have any advice for aspiring actors or producers?

Yes, it’s a very tough industry. It is not easy getting in. But I would advise them to not give up and don’t get let down by people’s comments. Just go for it, believe in yourself, and work hard. A lot of people get disheartened; it is very obvious because it’s definitely not easy getting a break in the industry.

What are your plans for the future?

Me and my partners in Canada, Monty Sikka and Daljit Thind, are planning to produce more. Going forward, we are planning Punjabi film sequels Sardaar Ji 2 and Jatt and Juliet Part 3. We are also working on some big Bollywood films. There will be a lot of entertainment from television and films coming up. The show must go on!

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BOX OFFICE

PREM RATAN DHAN PAYO Released on: November 12

Directed by: Sooraj R. Barjatya Starring: Salman Khan, Sonam Kapoor, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Anupam Kher

by SHweta KulKarni

T

he festival of lights kick-started with Salman Khan gracing the screen as the beloved ‘Prem’ for the 15th time in Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, followed by exlovers Ranbir and Deepika sizzling up the screen in Tamasha. After the tumultuous romance with Ranbir, Deepika romances real-time beau Ranveer Singh in the period romance Bajirao Mastani. Amitabh Bachchan brings to the table master chess moves with Wazir, along with the dashing Farhan Akhtar.

Looking at the platter it seems like there is nothing that could be given a miss. What say!

After the poignant Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Salman Khan is all set to return to the silver screen with yet another emotional drama – Prem Ratan Dhan Payo (PRDP). “Hold your tears,” warned Bhaijaan as he revealed, “While Bajrangi Bhaijaan was about Hindu-Muslim ties, and a story that was beyond the borders, Prem Ratan Dhan Payo will bring out the internal conflicts in families between brothers and sisters, through a beautifully written story.”

Directed and written by Sooraj Barjatya, who is known for his family sagas, PRDP also boasts of high-octane action sequences. Action director Greg Powell, known for Fast & Furious (2009) and Skyfall (2012), was specially flown down to direct action scenes between Salman and Neil Nitin Mukesh. Talking about his character Salman said, “It’s been 13 years since I have worked with Sooraj and it was quite difficult to play his kind of ‘Prem’. I have changed so much; I’m not that pure person anymore. I had to unlearn a lot to be ‘Prem ‘again.”

B

W PREVIE

BAJIRAO MASTANI Releasing date: December 18

Directed by: Sanjay Leela Bhansali Starring: Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, Priyanka Chopra

Armed with all his characteristic opulence and visual splendor, Sanjay Leela Bhansali (SLB) is finally bringing to the screen his dream project – Bajirao Mastani – the epic love story between the Maratha Peshwa Baji Rao and his second wife Mastani. “Bajirao Mastani is a very intense love story. It is my biggest film in terms of scale and also my toughest film to make,” said SLB, who had first announced the project in 2003 and wanted to cast his then favourite jodi – Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai. However, with the couple drifting apart, SLB’s project too took a back seat and finally saw the light of the day only recently as Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone breathed life into these iconic characters with their crackling chemistry. Priyanka Chopra has an integral part in the film too, she essays Kashi – Bajirao’s first wife.

Talking about the film Priyanka said, “For me the film is poetry in motion. It is beautiful.”

Hope you will be heading to your nearest cinema to witness this poetry.

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Subscribe Today!

TAMASHA

Releasing date: November 27 Directed by: Imtiaz Ali Starring: Deepika Padukone, Ranbir Kapoor

Set in the picturesque French island Corsica, Tamasha narrates the story of two free-spirited souls – Tara and Ved, who decide to not reveal their real identities to each other and have the time of their lives. So the world becomes their stage as Tara and Ved embark on their colourful ride, which is filled with frolic and laughter until the time comes to bid adieu.

“Tamasha has been a demanding film in terms of performances and story-telling,” said the film’s director Imtiaz.

He added, “Sometimes the same kind of events occur in life and then we blame our circumstances for it and say that this is how life is. You never become who you are really as an individual. And the same story repeats for you unless you take control of your life. You change that by saying that you’re not enjoying matters and that you’ll make your own endings in life, that’s when a different kind of ‘tamasha’ takes place.” If not the philosophy, the film will definitely lure you to the theaters with these two ex-lovers’ vivacious on-screen chemistry.

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WAZIR

Releasing date: December 4 Directed by: Bejoy Nambiar Starring: Amitabh Bachchan, Farhan Akhtar, Aditi Rao Hydari

A wheel-chair bound Amitabh Bachchan, an Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) officer played by Farhan Akhtar, and Neil Nitin Mukesh playing the bad guy – Wazir at a glance appears to be gripping political thriller, which promises to keep the audience at the edge of their seats. The film that was sitting on the writing table for five years revolves around chess master Panditji (Amitabh Bachchan) and ATS officer Danish Ali (Farhan Akhtar), who are brought together by fate and try to seek redemption in each other. Talking about his character, Farhan who is excited to play an action hero for the first time said, “My character is a hard-boiled law enforcement officer. He is someone who deals with violence on a daily basis. It is a world I am not familiar with, so it took some amount of research and training.” “It is a complete film, it has action and romance too,” said film’s producer and co-writer Vidhu Vinod Chopra.

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BOX OFFICE

OSCARS: THE MASTER SQUAD

by Jorge ignacio caStillo

A

Released on: October 16

Steven Spielberg’s first movie since Lincoln (2012) is another one of his “serious” movies, although this one is bound to be more entertaining than his take on the US 16th President. Regular collaborator Tom Hanks is at hand to portrait James Donovan, a lawyer who unwittingly became a mayor player during the Cold War. Donovan defended Russian spy Rudolf Abel and was hired by the US government to negotiate the release of an American pilot shot down in Soviet aerospace. Here is hoping it’s more Catch Me if You Can (2002) and less The Terminal (2004).

Our Brand Is Crisis Released on: October 30

s it’s traditional, films with hopes to be considered for awards (especially the Oscars) are set to open in the

last quarter of the year. In this occasion though, some seriously powerful names are entering the ring at the same time. You’ll find the perennial contenders – Steven Spielberg, Quentin Tarantino and Ron Howard, the new guard – David O. Russell, Alejandro G. Iñarritu, Danny Boyle, and relative newcomers with undeniable talent – David Gordon Green, J.J. Abrams, actress turned director Angelina Jolie. Some of them may not collect any silverware, but audiences will definitely come on the TM winning side.

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Bridge of Spies

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

The days Sandra Bullock was America’s sweetheart are long gone, yet the actress’ career could not be in better shape. Freed from goodgirl roles, Bullock can now sink her teeth in meatier characters. In Our Brand Is Crisis, the Oscar winner plays “Calamity” Jane Bodine, a political strategist fallen in hard times. On the verge of quitting her career altogether, Bodine is convinced to spearhead the candidacy of a charisma-free Bolivian politician. In direct competition with an old rival, “Calamity” Jane uses some of the dirtiest tricks in the book, several of which you can identify in today’s electoral races.

David Gordon Green (Pineapple Express; 2008) directs.

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Star Wars: The Force Awakens Releasing date: December 18

Not a serious entry like the other ones, you say? Consider this: The first Star Wars (1977) was nominated to 10 Oscars, and won six of them. Also, the writer/director behind it is J.J. Abrams, a man whose output has been consistently strong and is long due at least a nomination. Finally, the franchise can’t get worse than the prequels (can it?)

In the Heart of the Sea Releasing date: December 11

By the Sea

Joy

The Revenant

Just a year after getting shun from most award races with Unbroken (2014), Angelina Jolie is at it again. And this time she has brought reinforcements. Alongside real-life husband Brad Pitt, Jolie directs and stars in By the Sea. The film tells the story of a couple growing apart who – after a few days in a sleepy town in France – has a chance to rediscover each other. The intimate drama will have a decidedly European flavour, which may be a tough sale this side of the Atlantic.

For the third consecutive time, director David O. Russell (Silver Linings Playbook; 2012, American Hustle; 2013) brings Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper and Robert De Niro back into the fold for one of his quirky – if very human – tales of people desperate to connect. Based on real events, Joy follows a single mother of three children who went on inventing the “Miracle Mop” and subsequently becoming the head of her own corporation. Being a David O. Russell movie, it’s likely to be more than a traditional rags-to-riches story.

Fresh from his Best Picture win at the last Academy Awards with Birdman (2014), Alejandro González Iñarritu is looking to repeat with The Revenant. Set in 1823, Leonardo DiCaprio is a fur trapper who, following a bear attack, is robbed by his posse and left to die. Against all odds, the hunter survives and sets out to get revenge. The Revenant was filmed in Alberta during the winter and was shot using only natural light. Based on the trailers, at least the cinematography looks stunning.

Released on: November 13

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Releasing date: December 25

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Releasing date: December 25

P h oto s : 2 0 t h C e n t u r y F ox , L i o n s g at e , t r i s ta r , u n i v e r s a L

The relatively reliable filmmaker Ron Howard (The Dilemma; 2011 notwithstanding) takes on the nautical tale that inspired Herman Melville to write Moby Dick. A whaling ship is targeted by their assumed pray, not unlike Jaws (1975). Not only the whale goes for the vessel, but specifically for the humans. The CGI whale looks impressive and Chris Hemsworth in a starring role (he previously worked with Howard in Rush; 2013) should put bums in sits.

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iNdiaNs GLOBaL iNdiaNs GLOBaL iNdiaNs GLOBaL iNdiaNs GLOBaL iNdiaNs GLOBaL iNdiaNs GLOBaL iNdiaNs GLOBaL iNdi

GLOBAL

INDIANS

Q&a

With Dr. rao Did you face any obstacles while becoming an author?

The obstacles were mostly personal. Since I have no background in writing, I felt insecure.

Also since I am a very private person who suddenly found herself in a public environment, I felt as if I was being judged when readers were actually passing opinions on my books.

Often I have had to tell myself that the reason I write is for selfexpression and not necessarily to follow the crowd.

What is your biggest achievement so far?

That I’m still alive and well and most of my patients are too.

Jokes apart, I can say that balancing a tough profession with my lifelong dream and bringing it to fruition was something I thought was never possible.

What advice would you give to young writers or to-be doctors?

i n t ro D u C i n G

DR. SIMI RAO

By Petrina D'Souza

D

r. Simi Rao moved to the United States of America 15 years ago.

Over the years, she has evolved as a physician, and her passion for writing has transformed her into an author. She has written three books of contemporary women’s fiction – Inconvenient Relations, The Accidental Wife, and Milan - A Wedding Story.

Dr. Rao was a novice when she arrived in the US – she hadn’t yet completed her studies. While she was working to further her knowledge, she was also making the transition to an entirely different form of healthcare. “Here [USA], where people have better access to healthcare, we have a tendency to practice defensive medicine and order more tests than we would otherwise. I feel this makes the practice of medicine more mechanical. It also affects

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the patient-doctor relationship.”

The Denver-based physician was, however, pleasantly surprised by the fact that physicians of Indian origin in general are welcomed and respected as they are considered sincere, hard-working and smart.

Coming back to her interest in writing, books have always been Dr. Rao’s best companions. “I particularly like the ease with which they can transport me to another world where I’m at liberty to choose my own actors and scenes. Though medicine fulfills my inquisitive nature, it doesn’t necessarily cater to my creative instinct,” she says, explaining her decision to start writing. “Today writing has become a passion and I use it as a medium of self-expression that is liberating and therapeutic at the same time.”

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Inconvenient Relations, which was originally published as An Incurable Insanity, is a modern story set against the backdrop of ancient traditions that explores the cultural differences and conflicts between two societies and the sexes. The Accidental Wife is about well-laid plans gone awry, and Milan – A Wedding Story gives readers a behind the scenes look at a traditional Indian wedding.

“Life with all its fragrances and flavours is my greatest inspiration.

My work is one of my greatest resources – many of my characters originate there. Most of what I write is from the perspective of a desi living abroad,” says the

Despite being vastly diverse, writing and medicine share one thing in common – passion. Both require dedication and hard work and often the rewards arrive late. A writer should write from the heart to find resonance with his or her readers.

Medicine is a high stress job and the basic qualification is empathy toward the suffering. And it is not an identity you can shed out of the work place because once a doctor, always a doctor. Yet it is one of the most gratifying professions.

Indians around the world have to their immigrated countries, what do you think of this accomplishment?

Yes, it cannot be disputed that Indians have enriched the societies they have migrated into. Not only have they contributed with their intellect but also by becoming the ambassadors of the Indian philosophy that subscribes to nonviolence and unity in diversity. It is nice to see many desis moving into non-traditional spheres such as politics and journalism. In today’s times of the World Wide Web, the boundaries between countries have become superfluous. It is vital that we all strive to build bridges and break down the walls of ignorance. passionate doctor-cum-author.

Dr. Rao enjoys exploring the dynamics of contemporary American culture blended with Indian customs and heritage to reflect the challenges and opportunities many Indian-American women face in real life. “Indian American women have it tough. Though many are homemakers, most work and are faced with the challenge of having to balance multiple responsibilities and do so without the conveniences that are considered routine back home. Things such as child care, affordable help and so on,” she says, pointing out some of the challenges.

According to her, the real challenge is dealing with how to preserve our culture and traditions and impart them to our children. “And this is important because if we don’t we are relegating our children to a state of perpetual bewilderment and alienation.

A better way to look at it is that our children are lucky because they have the best of both worlds.”

“Speaking for myself as a woman, the biggest impact [living in the USA] has been in the matter of personal safety and the ability to travel alone at any time. The sense of liberation that provides is incalculable,” sums up Dr. Rao.

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By Kelly BensoN

N OV- D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5

HOROSCOPE ALL SIGNS: The Sun slides through truth seeking

Sagittarius, then into controlled and down-to-earth Capricorn.

We’re getting serious about our education systems and everyone is talking politics! (Hey, who can solve the world’s problems in less than five minutes?) We’re encouraged to look to thought leaders with progressive philosophies about social and environmental issues. While at the same time, we desire practical methodologies that we can apply to our day-to-day lives. Jupiter transiting through serviceoriented Virgo pushes us all to look at ways we can help each other, to help ourselves. Saturn sitting in Sagittarius pushes us to look to other countries and cultures so that we might learn from them. On a personal level, getting out and talking with colleagues and friends, sharing our ideas and knowledge, attending workshops, conferences, cultural events, and even parties gets us thinking!

Aries (MArch 21-April 19) Life lessons related to your interdependence with others have packed a powerful punch recently, Aries! Some connections with others proved to be draining and riddled with conflict, so you were forced to make changes (Good!). Still, other connections showed promise and mutual respect – these alliances have blossomed into strategic partnerships. Unfinished business with past partners (marital or business issues) will crop up in real time and you must face them. Harmonious outcomes are possible if you are being honest and willing to cooperate. You are eager to fulfill your end of the bargain, and you’re ready to work hard to prove that. Circumstances on the job front improve greatly. This is a hot time for research, education and training. If you’re looking for work, get on it!

Lucky Days: Nov 21, 22 Dec 19, 20 Challenging Days: Nov 7, 8, 9 Dec 5, 6

TAurus (April 20-MAy 20) You’ve learned a number of powerful lessons in the last few years, Taurus. Professionally you are on much stronger ground and you know the direction you want to take things.

Transformations are occurring at a deep level and you are continuing to define yourself as an individual (A little self-analysis can go a long way). Your confidence increases as you commune with your talents and grow your passions. Relationships with others including romantic connections and playful relations with children are blessed. You are not about to sacrifice yourself to the will of others (not after what you learned in these last few years). If you discover that your personal values deeply differ from a friend’s, you will diplomatically and skillfully move on.

Lucky Days: Nov 23, 24, 25 Dec 21, 22 Challenging Days: Nov 10, 11 Dec 7, 8, 9

GeMini (MAy 21-June 20) Intimate, one-to-one relationships are a key focus now, Gemini. You feel a great sense of obligation to others. While at times you’d prefer some distraction or playful diversions, responsibility keeps calling your name (ugh!). Business partnerships and marriages may go through a series of tests right now. With the sun opposite your sign you are encouraged to be cooperative. Demanding that others meet your needs might not be the best strategy. Collaborating with others to find solutions will yield healthy results. Intellectually you are inspired by ancient philosophies and belief systems (You are always hungry to learn Gemini). Travel for education or training is highly likely. Health regimes and wellness practices are attractive now. You’re ready to improve across the board!

Lucky Days: Nov 26, 27 Dec 23, 24 Challenging Days: Nov 12, 13, 14 Dec 10, 11

cAncer (June 21-July 22) Positive changes to your domestic scene make you feel more secure now, Cancer. Projects around the home such as

renovations and redecorating, reorganizing your kitchen, or sorting through family memorabilia are favoured. You’re ready to tackle anything. Conversations with family members provide you with an opportunity to work through some old memories (It turns out you weren’t the only one who thought that way). Healings with family members and releasing trapped resentments can bring about a world of good. You’re ready to strengthen your bonds with siblings, relatives, and old friends. Community gatherings and social events are filled with laughter and delight. The full Moon on December 25 can be powerful - you might need to be a pillar for someone.

Lucky Days: Nov 1, 28, 29 Dec 25, 26 Challenging Days: Nov 15, 16 Dec 12, 13

Leo (JuLy 23-Aug. 22) Saturn into Sagittarius favourably aspects your fiery sign, Leo! You’re encouraged to step into your power (If the crown fits, wear it!). The natural leader within you coming out.

You’re focused on shoring up and strengthening the foundations you recently created. As the winter approaches, the pace of your days will pick up considerably. Your energy is high and you’re eager to accomplish a lot. You might experience conflicts with others if you’re pushing your agenda at a rate that is unreasonable (True accomplishments often require the cooperation of the group). Should you need to stick up for yourself or a cause you believe in, this is a strong time to assert or defend your position (especially in legal affairs). You are not about to back down.

Lucky Days: Nov 2, 3, 4, 30 Dec 1, 27, 28 Challenging Days: Nov 17, 18 Dec 14, 15, 16

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) How does your inner world differ from your outer world, Virgo?

With expansive Jupiter in your sign, now is the time to take a leap of faith. You’re eager to make changes that will create powerful and lasting effects. Matters to do with home and family are important to you (It all depends at what life-stage you’re at). Regardless of your age, it’s important that you consider nurturing and parenting yourself. Picture an older, wiser version of you coaching the current you through the next three years. What would you encourage yourself to do?

Finances are going to improve soon, so be sure to include estate. You’re ready to anchor yourself to a community, or to a home. It’s all about building your foundation.

Lucky Days: Nov 5, 6 Dec 2, 3, 4, 30, 31 Challenging Days: Nov 19, 20 Dec 17, 18

LibrA (Sept. 23-oct. 22) Relationships are both favoured and tested at this time, Libra. You’re taking great strides to improve your circumstances within your friend circles, and your professional networks. You’re eager to learn from those who have more experience, as well as sharing your knowledge.

Tests arise that push you to examine your personal truth. If others are overly critical or judgmental of your efforts, you’re not likely to brush it off (As a Libra, you often sacrifice your position so that everyone can get along). Use your natural diplomacy and your ability to see both sides of the story to honestly understand your position now. It’s time to push for your agenda, just be assertive and strong. Those who support you will admire you more, creating strength in those partnerships.

Lucky Days: Nov 7, 8, 9 Dec 5, 6 Challenging Days: Nov 21, 22 Dec 19, 20

Scorpio (oct. 23-NoV. 21) It’s your birthday season, Scorpio. It’s time to celebrate a little. With the Sun near your sign, you have more energy and you’re easily galvanized into action. There’s a strong focus on finances – how to procure your finances or the lack thereof.

This is not a favourable time to buy things on credit or ask for

a loan, unless you have a bulletproof plan for debt management.

It is time to tighten the belt. The universe is pushing you to get in touch with your true value system and it might cramp your spending habits a little so that you get real with yourself. Your earning power is going to be increasing considerably in about a year and half now, so keep in mind this year as a test.

Lucky days: Nov 10, 11 Dec 7, 8, 9 Challenging days: Nov 21, 22 Dec 13, 14

SagittariuS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Letting go of unnecessary difficulties is your theme right now, Sagittarius. It’s critical that you listen to your inner truth, while at the same honoring time the responsibilities you have to yourself and others. Endings and beginnings will weave together now. Over the next year and a half you are creating new foundations for yourself and your family. The changes and adjustments you’re making in your personal life will impact your professional life, and vice versa. Your birthday season is here, hurray! The new Moon occurring on December 11 is the optimum time for you to set your intentions and personal goals for the year ahead. Your adventurous nature and your optimistic attitude will support you as you enter this chapter of life. You’re ready for this!

Lucky days: Nov 12, 13, 14 Dec 10, 11 Challenging days: Nov 26, 27 Dec 23, 24

capricorN (Dec. 22-JaN. 19) Your birthday season is approaching, Capricorn. This means it’s a great time for reflection. A little objective review of the last year will be of benefit to you. Consider relationships, activities, attitudes and belief systems that are no longer serving you.

It’s time to let them go. A little pruning can go a long way. With Jupiter in your ninth house, you are building up to a career peak beginning in late 2016. How can you best prepare for that? Any kind of training or study can be of great benefit to you now. You might find a mentor that you deeply resonate with. Or vice versa, you might be the mentor that learns tremendously through the act of giving back. Your word carries a lot of weight now; use it wisely.

Lucky days: Nov 15, 16 Dec 12, 13 Challenging days: Nov 1, 28, 29 Dec 25, 26

aquariuS (JaN. 20-Feb. 18) You’ve made some important adjustments to your life path in the last few years, Aquarius. Other people in your world (both professional and personal) have witnessed your decisions and some have chosen to align themselves with you. Key relationships with co-workers, friends, and your community at large, will gain in strength, power and influence. You’re striving for a better future and you know that in order to accomplish this, cooperation with others is key. In the next few months you might be asked to mentor, teach or guide those with less experience. This is a job you’re ready for. Wealth and resources connected to partnerships or healthy working alliances are more available to you now as well. This is also a good time to apply for a loan or mortgage.

Lucky days: Nov 17, 18 Dec 14, 15, 16 Challenging days: Nov 2, 3, 4, 30 Dec 1, 27, 28, 29

piSceS (Feb. 19-March 20) This is a powerful time for you, Pisces. Stern Saturn moves to the top of your chart pushing you to get serious about your path and your career. Life is pressing you to declare your major.

You are dedicated to work hard, to meet the needs of your community, and shoulder any and all responsibilities. Dealings with authority figures can be a mixed bag right now. In one sense you’re eager to be taken seriously and are likely to command more respect (this is good). However, if there are any resentments brewing beneath the surface, frustrations with authority figures can easily occur (Especially if you are feeling judged or criticized). The full Moon on November 25 might trigger you.

Meditation and breath work can help you regain your inner calm.

Lucky days: Nov 19, 20 Dec 17, 18 Challenging days: Nov 5, 6 Dec 2, 3, 4, 30, 31

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015 144 DARPAN Reflecting The student South-Asian Lifestyle astrologer.

Kelly Benson is a lifelong of metaphysics, She has a rich background in reading astrological charts and doing Tarot readings. She is the daughter of well-known astrologer Georgia Nicols. Visit: www.kellybenson.ca

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By Petrina D’Souza

CANADIAN IMMIGRANTS

SHARE THEIR STORIES works as an Underwriter at Intact Financial Corporation

Life is unpredictable; enjoy every moment and take time to share joy and peace throughout this beautiful community.

Sunita Patel

works as an Underwriting Assistant at Intact Financial Corporation

Advice for immigrants: If you are a new immigrant or intend to immigrate to Canada, come with an open mind and be ready to face a few challenges, it’s not always easy for everyone. This community is very welcoming, beautiful and diverse, but you have to be flexible and ready to adapt. To fit in the society, you have to change a little and mould yourself accordingly, as you have opted to immigrate for a change in lifestyle or maybe for a better future for yourself or your loved ones and no one forced you to do so.

Suhayl Patel

is 12 years old

he Meet t

PATiElyL

Memories of Homeland:

Fam

The Patel family is thankful for their warm and supportive community of family and friends who welcomed and supported them in every possible way – making their overall journey in Canada very comfortable.

Photo : Patel Family

Getting Here: With the hope of securing a brighter future for themselves and their son, Suhayl, Usman and Sunita Patel migrated to Vancouver in August 2009 from Mumbai, India. Their first impressions of the country ‒ beautiful, serene and diverse.

They lived in Sunita’s brother’s place the first year, eventually moving to their own apartment.

It took the family a few months to get used to the country, its people and surroundings. “Weather, finding jobs, and settling in our own home were some of the challenges we faced,” says Sunita, recalling her initial years in Canada.

Back in Mumbai, Sunita used to work in a NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

The biggest obstacle so far was finding the right job (before getting into Intact).

Resolutions made for yourself or family:

Usman Patel

146

Biggest obstacle faced so far in Canada:

stock broking company as a manager (office administration) and Usman worked as a lighting technician. Yet, due to the lack of Canadian work experience, they were ready to accept any suitable job that came their way. “We were aware of the fact that we should take what we get and not be too picky,” the couple explains.

Usman got his first job as a gas station attendant within the very first week, thanks to some friends who owned a chain of gas stations.

Sunita, however, did face a challenge getting a job. She was disheartened for not receiving a call from any of the various banks and retail stories she applied to. “Finally, I walked into Walmart at Capilano Mall and requested to meet the manager; the lady was very kind and referred me to the manager. The two were so pleased with my brief talk that they called me for an interview the next morning,” adds Sunita.

And there began her work journey in Walmart in November 2009 in the ladies fashion area. In December, Sunita started her second job as a cashier at Extra Foods close to her home. “At a time I had two jobs and volunteered when time permitted at my son’s school, the Recreation Centre, and the Community Police

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Wonderful people (we still have family and friends there), the diverse cultural events, festivals, the tasty street food, over crowded trains (in spite of which we had train friends and train parties), ready homemade food when we got back from work, and of course not to forget, our mega annual summer picnics with family, friends and neighbours which were simply awesome.

Centre to gain Canadian experience and be an integral part of the society,” points out Sunita.

At present, Usman and Sunita are happily employed at Intact Financial Corporation. “Within two years of toiling really hard and for almost seven days a week, I was offered a job at Intact Insurance in September 2011. After which I referred Usman and he was offered a job too,” shares Sunita.

The Patel family is thankful for their warm and supportive community of family and friends who welcomed and supported them in every possible way – making their overall journey in Canada very comfortable. “My brother and sisterin-law accommodated us for almost a year (that helped us save towards our home), friends helped us find jobs. When we were at work, family and friends were always around to help out with our son who was then only six years of age (we saved our money on day care).”

They hope to have a future that is relaxed, peaceful and hopefully mortgage-free earlier than the stipulated time.

Mark Lyons joins Warnett Hallen LLP Paul Warnett and Manjot Singh Hallen are proud to welcome Mark Lyons, former founding partner at Klein Lyons, to our team. Mark is one of Vancouverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most experienced personal injury lawyers and is here to make your ICBC claim and car accident settlement process seamless and easy.

Make us your first call after a car accident or personal injury.

For free advice: 670-1665 West Broadway, Vancouver, BC, V6J 1X1 info@warnetthallen.com warnetthallen.com

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