Darpan SEP/OCT 2015

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

DARPAN EXCLUSIVE

VARUN DHAWAN

2015

Ce

lebrat

i n g the Extrao rdina

ry!

A COUPLE'S GUIDE TO

INFERTILITY 2015 CANADIAN

ELECTIONS: WHO WILL WIN?

KING MEET THE CRANBERRY

PETERDARPAN DHILLON TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

1

75

2

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

3

Cody Mann Associate

General litigation

Sumit Ahuja* Associate Family Law

Sukhminder S. Virk* Associate Wealth, Estate & Corporate Law

Puneet Deol-Khaira Associate

Civil Litigation, Family Law

Perminder S.Tung* Partner

ICBC Claims

Subreen Bedi Associate

ICBC Claims

PARTNERS

Terence A. Dunn

Frank G. Potts*

D. Kirk Poje*

Trevor S. Fowler*

Timothy N. Grier*

Angela E. Thiele*

Christopher D. Martin* Mark von Marksfeld*

Gregory S. Miller*

Timothy D. Goepel*

Timothy J. Delaney*

Bradley T. Martyniuk*

Erin J. Easingwood* Perminder S. Tung*

Joel R. Hagyard*

P.G. Kent-Snowsell

ASSOCIATES Puneet Khaira Melissa Bryden Sumit Ahuja * * Law Corporation

4

Ari Wormeli Jessica Lo Paul Kennedy

Subreen Bedi Sukhminder S. Virk* Jonathan E. Fung

Nancy Chen Andrea Ritchie Tony Anderson

Cassandra Drake Laura Nichols Matthew Stainsby

C. Andrew Guerra Cody Mann

BMTP PG UIF 0OUBSJP #BS t BMTP PG UIF -BX 4PDJFUZ PG &OHMBOE 8BMFT

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

LK Law is a full service law firm celebrating 35 years of legal excellence. Our lawyers in Langley and Downtown Vancouver provide legal services for all elements of life, from business, wills, estates and tax planning, to family law, dispute resolution and car accidents. With decades of experience building a business and personal law firm in the region, we know what it takes to be successful here. The LK Law team will put that knowledge to work for you.

Vancouver Office: 1800, 401 West Georgia Street Vancouver, BC, Canada V6B 5A1

Tel: 604.687.1323 Langley Office:

400, 8621 – 201 Street Langley, BC, Canada V2Y 0G9

Tel: 604.888.5811

www.lklaw.ca

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

5

Publishers Note

H

“WE WORK HARD FOR YOU TO GET YOU THE BEST MORTGAGE THAT FITS YOUR LIFE-STYLE!”

FIRST TIME BUYERS PRIVATE & 2ND MORTGAGES REFINANCES & SWITCHES FARM FINANCING COMMERCIAL & SMALL BUSINESS LOANS

BAD CREDIT SPECIAL PROGRAM FOR SELF EMPLOYED & NEW IMMIGRANTS

SECURED LINE OF CREDIT DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS PURCHASES WITH AS LOW AS 5% DOWN

2.00

%

5 YEARS VARIABLE CLOSED

( PRIME -0.85 % )

2.34

%

5 YEARS FIXED CLOSED

.

E: varun@kraftmortgages.ca

ello readers, it has been a busy time for us preparing for our 6th Annual DARPAN Extraordinary Achievement Awards. The Awards focus on South Asians going beyond the usual and doing extraordinary things that inspire the lives of not just one or two people, but hundreds and thousands of individuals within our community.

Reflecting on the awards, our September-October issue highlights extraordinary achievers and special stories. Talking about achievers, our cover story this issue is on Peter Dhillon, CEO of Richberry Group of Companies and 2014 DARPAN Awards recipient.

Dhillon won the Corporate Engagement Award in honour of his extraordinary achievements as a leader and entrepreneur in the South Asian community. In his interview with DARPAN, he shares his success story and talk about two of his biggest achievements.

The elections are taking place in October, and our special feature on the 42nd federal election sheds light on the works and promises of different parties competing as well as gives us a glimpse on what can be expected after the victory of one of the candidates. This issue also talks about the issue of infertility in Canada, with fertility experts sharing their expertise on the topic and suggesting ways for families and couples to deal with the problem.

With the holiday season nearing, we shift our attention to health and fitness. Our fitness article on ‘Eating Right For A Fitter You’ talks about the healthy food items you need to consume while working out. The tech feature this issue lists the top-recommended and trending apps in the health and fitness industry that can help you keep a track on your exercising goals. Go ahead, get a dose of healthiness through DARPAN! We thank our readers for their support always. 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.

We are currently hiring brokers with great compensation.

UNIT 212, 7928-128 ST SURREY BC, V3W 4E8

Gurvinder S. Hundal

PUBLISHERS

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Gurvinder S. Hundal Ramneek S. Dhillon

Allen Walter

EDITOR Petrina D'Souza

Benjamin Yong Catherine Tse

ONLINE EDITOR Sumesh Sharma

Dr. Shagun Bhanot

FASHION EDITOR Kanika Sasan

Jorge Ignacio Castillo

ART DIRECTOR & GRAPHIC DESIGNER Vinay Giridhar

Kavita Shyam

MANAGER, SALES & MARKETING Sonia West

Petrina D'Souza

ADVERTISING AND SALES

Tarana Rana

Garima Goswami

Gurvinder S. Hundal Ramneek S. Dhillon

6

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

Ashley Stephens

DARPAN

TM

Joseph A. Federico Kelly Benson 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 Benjamin Yong Chandra Bodalia

COVER CREDITS Cover: Peter Dhillon Photo: Amrit Photography CONTACT Tel: 604-572-0199 Email: info@darpanmagazine.com 340-8140, 128 St. Surrey BC. V3W-1R1

JC Images Jeff Vinnick Mahi Photo Studio Rohan Shrestha Surya Studio Sunny Images

ISSN: ISSN 1920-4000

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

Ramneek S. Dhillon

You’ll feel right at home with our easy mortgages. speedy approvals flexible payment terms mobile team of experts

We have what you need to make home-buying stress free.

Michelle Angeles Speaks Tagalog 604-549-5374

Adriana Calandra Speaks Italian 604-549-5371

Bobby Dhaliwal Speaks Cantonese, Punjabi and Hindi 604-549-5370

Parminder Sandhu Speaks Punjabi and Hindi 604-549-5375

Kash Sidhu Speaks Punjabi 604-517-5188

Contact a Mortgage Relationship Manager today to get started!

604-419-8888

DARPAN

|

www.GFFG.com

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

7

CONTENTS SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

With over 25 years in the environmental industry, we are dedicated to provide the following real estate related environmental services: Stage I Preliminary Site Investigations Stage II Preliminary Site Investigations Detailed Site Investigations Remediation Risk & Impact Assessments Approved Consultants

Our team of experts will help you with your environmental liability, land development and financing process, and environmental clean up. We will help you protect your real estate investment!

Call Dr Raj for Expert & Friendly Advice

2015

Over 2000 Completed Projects Contact us for Low Rates

130

COVER

STORY

IN EVERY ISSUE

ENTERTAINMENT

08 READERS REACTION

136 BOLLYWOOD The Bollywood Calender

10 DARPAN’S 10

138 HOLLYWOOD

Deputy Chief Constable Steve Rai, Vancouver Police Department

Triumph Of The Fall

SPOTLIGHTS 18 Anupreet Sandhu Bhamra 20 Kiran Toor 24 Kabir Gill

76 RECIPES Vivek Singh

80 FASHION PAGES 86 BEAUTY

Boys Leading Girls Back To School

Top Fixes for Summer Damaged Skin

BUSINESS PROFILES

90 STYLE

72 Square Nine Developments Inc.

Leaves All Around

75 SmileTown Dentistry

92 HEALTH

A Night-Time Stroll

147 Country Lumber

96 FITNESS

142 GLOBAL INDIANS

Eating Right For A Fitter You!

Raman Ramakrishnan

98 TECH

144 HOROSCOPE

Get Fit, Get H‘app’Y

146 CANADIAN IMMIGRANTS

102 HOME

Show Your Home

Meet the Kumar Family

nd 42 Canadian

Federal Elections

34

60

106 WEDDING Jagraj and Navneet

110 ACTIVITIES

Five Reasons To Love Fall In Vancouver

114 TRAVEL

A Mix Of Old And New: Nagoya

202, 15388 - 24th Avenue Surrey, BC V4A 2J2 Tel: 778-294-2930 | Fax: 604-560-1601 12 FEATURE | Cell: 604-516-9085 New On The Job? Email: raj@doctoraujla.com Website: www.doctoraujla.com 34 SPECIAL FEATURE

FEATURES

The 42nd Canadian Federal Election

42 SPECIAL FEATURE

Handing Temper Tantrums In Kids

48 SPECIAL FEATURE A Couple’s Guide To Infertility

56 FEATURE

Rising To The Challenges

64 FEATURE

In Search Of Love

Dr. Raj Aujla M.Sc., Ph.D. ,P.Chem.

8

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

EXCLUSIVE 130 Varun Dhawan 60 Beeba Boys DARPAN

TM

86

LIFESTYLE

70 SALUTES

A Glimpse of the

604-516-9085

26

124

AUTO 118 BMW X6 X Drive 50i 120 Acura ILX 124 Mazda CX-3 126 Volkswagen Sportwagon

aser Way

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

9

R

eaRedacetironss

We want to hear your thoughts about this issue! Email us at editor@darpanmagazine.com or leave us a message on Facebook or Twitter.

Crime Special

The special feature on crime was very useful and informative. The crime rate in Surrey and surrounding areas is rising and it’s about time sometime is done to stop it. The article provided the view points by the police, government and other higher authorities, which actually gives us an idea why gangwars are taking place. It’s good to know that there are certain projects that are trying to lessen this problem.

- Ajit Singh, Surrey

Re: Crime Special

Yes Ajit, it is about time we do something to stop the problem of violence in and around Surrey. We need to stand united and face this issue together. – Editor

Travel Must Haves Aqua Fitness

Bellingham

Thank you so much for the article on aqua fitness. I always think of working out or staying fit, but the thought of exercising discourages me. But I think exercising in water will be fun. Thank you once again, keep up the good work! - Misha Kapoor, Richmond

I really enjoyed reading the travel article on Bellingham.

I never really knew that there is so much one can do in Bellingham. Being just an hour away from Vancouver, I’m tempted to go on a weekend trip there soon.

- Shriya Rai, Vancouver

Re: Aqua Fitness

Re: Bellingham

Hey Misha, thank you for the kind words. We aim to give our readers the best so that they enjoy reading our magazine. I’m sure you will love aqua fitness workouts.

Stay fit, stay happy! – Editor

I am glad to know that you loved the travel write-up on Bellingham Shriya. It seems to be a beautiful place that is yet to be completely discovered. Hope you make that trip soon and have a great time there. – Editor

Serving Surrey & Delta

RE/MAX Performance Realty

info@rajeevkainth.com TM 604-725-9700DARPAN

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

Re : Travel Must Haves Yes Priya, the article in indeed very informative.

Traveling to a new destination can be so much more fun and convenient if you carry the right items with you. Please keep supporting us always.

Readers looking to subscribe can visit our website: www.darpanmagazine.com – Editor

Outstanding Agents, Outstanding Results

RAJEEV KAINTH 10

The article titled ‘Get Set Go’ was amazing. I love travelling, but I hate packing or deciding what things to take along. The list provided in the article was really useful. Now I know what to carry on my next trip. - Priya Kumar, Vancouver

Serving Burnaby & Vancouver

RON BASRA RE/MAX Select Realty

ron@ronbasra.com 604-230-9899

TO DRIVE OR BE DRIVEN

2015 JAGUAR XJ

89, 490 1.9%

STARTING FROM

The XJ redefines what a luxury car should be. A dramatic combination of beauty, luxury and power, the XJ delivers a refreshingly dynamic driving experience.

No car looks, or feels, like the XJ.

MSRP

2015 LAND ROVER DISCOVERY SPORT

STARTING FROM

New Discovery Sport’s sleek, aerodynamic silhouette, with legendary Land Rover capability and a flexible interior, add up to a great looking vehicle that does so much more.

JAGUAR LAND ROVER OF RICHMOND DL#10425 5660 PARKWOOD WAY, RICHMOND TEL: 604.273.6068 www. jlrrichmond.com

LEASE FROM

$

FOR 42 MONTHS

41, 490 3.9% LEASE FROM

$

MSRP

FOR 42 MONTHS

JAGUAR LAND ROVER VANCOUVER DL#31077 1730 BURRARD STREET, VANCOUVER TEL: 604.738.5577 www. jaguarvancouver.ca | www.landrovervancouver.ca

2015 Jaguar Land Rover Canada ULC. MSRP Jaguar XJ 3.0L AWD $89,490 (excluding freight $1470 and all applicable taxes and fees). Total list price of $91,950 plus tax includes Pre Delivery Expense $495, Admin Fee $395, Air Conditioning Fee $100, and freight $1470. May require factory orders. XJ 3.0L lease rate of 1.9% available on 24/30/36/42 month term through Canadian Dealer Lease services. MSRP 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport $41,490 (excluding freight $1575 and all applicable taxes and fees). Total list price of $44,055 plus tax includes Pre Delivery Expense $495, Admin Fee $395, Air Conditioning Fee $100 and freight $1575.

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015notice. For 2015 Discovery Sport SE lease rate of 3.9% available on 24/30/36/42 month term through Canadian Dealer Lease services. Offer ends September 30, 2015. All prices subject to change without prior TMare more details visit Jaguar Land Rover Vancouver or Richmond.

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

11

Well, anybody who knows me knows just how proud I am of my ethnic heritage. I travel to India on a regular basis, I follow South Asian issues and I support solutions wherever I can. I want to honour the road paved by the first South Asian immigrants with respect and dignity. I feel our community has achieved many things that honour the blood and sweat of the early pioneers.

We have influence in every industry and sector across Canada. Leaders are sensitive and responsive to the issues important to our community; this is an indicator of just how important a role we play in the larger Canadian fabric. I want to see the next generation excel even further and not become complacent based on the achievements of past generations.

1 You were recently appointed Deputy Chief of Vancouver Police Department (VPD) –

feel receiving this honour?

I feel extremely proud for being able to achieve this leadership position with the VPD, a world-class policing organization. I grew up in Vancouver, have lived in the Lower Mainland for most of my life, and I am extremely excited to work for the entire community in helping to improve public safety and quality of life. Also, I am eager to utilize my new role to showcase to South Asian youth that you can achieve what you want if you strive for it, have a personal plan for yourself, and be honest about pursuing it. Don’t make excuses, achieve to your potential!

2 What are the responsibilities attached to this role?

8 Lately, crime and gang wars have been linked to the South Asian community. What are your views about this issue?

My responsibilities encompass the business side of policing. This is a very important assignment that impacts how we deliver our policing resources to the fullest potential for the benefit of our citizens.

Specifically, I oversee our human resources section, training, recruiting, professional standards, finance, technology, information management and many more sections that allow our officers to do a great job for you.

3 What inspired you to get into the police force?

I knew I wanted to be a police officer since I was 16 years old. I have played team sports for my entire life; I was looking for a career that had the team component and the camaraderie and spirit of a team environment. Of course I wanted a career that was exciting and that had a purpose. Policing provides all of this and more. I have had many mini-careers in my 25 years. I was a hostage negotiator, district commander, a public order commander, the list goes on. My point being, there is so much variety in policing that I have always had career satisfaction. I have never regretted my choice as a 16 year old.

4 How has your journey been as part of the VPD?

Policing has changed a lot since I started; our officer demographics much better reflect the community than when I began my career. We have officers from every ethnic background living in Vancouver, officers who speak multiple languages, and who come with a variety of experiences. Technology is really changing the way we fight crime and will continue to exert great positive influence on business practices.

Personally, my journey has been very rewarding. I continue to learn and develop new skills in order to keep up with new and emerging trends. Policing can be very academic, while in other situations, it is all about personal interactions, therefore, my journey has been exactly what I wanted in terms of perpetual personal and professional growth.

5 Taking up this role, what plans do you have for the city?

A pillar of Chief Adam Palmer’s platform for policing Vancouver is to heighten our grassroots community engagement. We’ve always done a very good job

12

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

Steve Rai DEPUTY CHIEF CONSTABLE,

VANCOUVER POLICE DEPARTMENT

working with community stakeholders, but in the coming years the public will see the VPD in a much more pronounced way.

Specific to my role as Deputy Chief, one of my responsibilities is to ensure our officers reflect the community and have the best training available. The diverse representation in policing continues to strengthen a collective mindset, and not an “us versus them” outlook. In my role as Deputy Chief, I will continue to ensure your police department represents you and is highly trained to the sensitivities of our eclectic city.

6 How do you see the growth and development of Vancouver?

We continue to strengthen our world class status. Whenever I travel and speak with people, Vancouver and the word ‘beautiful’ are synonymous. I believe we’ve done a great job in maintaining our natural beauty while allowing our communities to thrive with people from all over the world. Of course our role as a police agency is to play a part in educating citizens while ensuring we do our part in helping to build a great city. Law enforcement is very active province-wide in thwarting crime trends and in not allowing criminality to seep into the fabric of the Province.

7 What are your views on the achievements of Indians or Indo-Canadians in B.C.?

DARPAN

TM

I have a very strong viewpoint that crime is being committed by persons from every demographic. Personally and professionally, I never accepted placing a disproportionate blame on any one ethnicity. In fact, those from the South Asian community who commit gangrelated crime are second or third generation Canadians, born and raised in our communities.

I acknowledge that we do need to continue to break down cultural barriers that contribute to investigative roadblocks. We need our community to become more open and cooperative in those situations where the police need support to solve a crime.

9 You are the recipient of a Chief Constable’s Commendation for “courage and professionalism,” two Chief Constable Unit Citations, and the Khalsa Diwan Society (KDS) Exemplary Community Service Award. Do state what these awards mean to you?

The internal recognition is always rewarding in that your fellow officers have appreciated your work. I have been fortunate over the course of my career to have worked with some great partners and to have worked in some fantastic specialized police units, these awards speak to positive outcomes in difficult circumstances. I am always grateful to my fellow police officers.

The KDS award is extremely important to me professionally because it was the community recognizing the VPD. The KDS is a fixture and leader in our community of historic proportion, the fact they took the time and energy to appreciate our partnership is very gratifying for me.

10 What message would you like to give youngsters who wish to follow your path?

I have personally coached many kids throughout my career. My central advice to them has always been to remind them to stay ‘focused’, have a vision for yourself, view yourself successfully, and develop a mindset and mental plan of where you want to be in five years, in 10 years and so on. Don’t be distracted by unimportant things that take away your energy, everyone has a mark to leave in life, make it a good mark!

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

13

D

SPECIAL FEATURE

Searching for a seamless transition as you ease your way into a new office

NEW ON THE

JOB?

BY Ashley Stephens

14

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

oes the thought of being the new person at work have you dreaming up worst-case scenarios or imagining you’ll forget your ID badge, briefcase or, even worse, your pants?

Being new isn’t always easy.

Getting hired can give you the confidence that you’re the best person for the job, but that doesn’t come without its share of doubts and anxieties over fitting in and finding success in an unfamiliar office. It’s a job for both employers and employees, but when armed with the right attitude, even the first day can seem like just another day at the

office.

“Introduce yourself to existing employees and managers as you see them or make a concerted effort to purposely go to each person to introduce yourself,” suggests A. Elizabeth Burnett, founder and president of Elizabeth Etiquette. Learning your co-workers names, and those of their spouses or children, will demonstrate your care and dedication to the company.

“People would much rather talk about themselves than hear your story,” she says. “As a new person, be brief and ask them what their role is in the company. Based on their reply, begin a dialogue or divert to another time.”

The company culture is bound to differ from your last place of employment. Observe your new colleagues – what time they arrive at the office, how they typically communicate with co-workers or clients, when they take breaks. Don’t be afraid to ask others how things work around the office, even if it’s just understanding how others interact on a personal level.

As a manager, even if your role involves changing the culture to improve workplace productivity, you must understand how a

The new standard.

The Audi Q7.

Engineered to leave 2015 Fast.

It’s your last chance to get incredible offers on all 2015 models.

2015 AUDI

LEASE FROM

UP TO

quattro®

FOR 36 MONTHS

CASH PURCHASE SAVINGS

Q7 1.9% $5,500 Visit AudiofRichmond.com for more details. Offer ends September 30th.

See your Audi of Richmond Brand Specialist for details.

2015 Audi Canada. Lease a 2015 Audi Q7 3.0T Progressiv Quattro with a base price of $59,200 which excludes freight and PDI ($2,095) at 1.9% for 36 months with monthly payments of $734 plus applicable taxes, with $2,500 in savings applied. A down payment of $5,000 or equivalent trade-in, $850 security deposit, and first monthly payment due at lease inception. License, insurance, registration, options and applicable taxes are extra. Prices do not include Dealer Prep Fee $558, Admin Fee $425. The total lease obligation is $35,193 (including taxes). 12,000/ year kilometer allowance; charge of $0.20 for excess kilometers. Offer valid until September 30, 2015. “Audi” “Q7” “Quattro”, “Vorsprung durch Technik” and the four rings emblem are registered trademarks for AUDI AG. To find out more about Audi, visit Audi of Richmond in the Richmond Auto Mall, call 604.279.9663, or visit us at www.audiofrichmond.com. Audi of Richmond is part of Cowell Auto Group.

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

15

SPECIAL FEATURE

A. Elizabeth Burnett, founder and president of Elizabeth Etiquette

Being new isn’t always easy.

Getting hired can give you the confidence that you’re the best person for the job, but that doesn’t come without its share of doubts and anxieties over fitting in and finding success in an unfamiliar office. It’s a job for both employers and employees, but when armed with the right attitude, even the first day can seem like just another day at the office.

16

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

company works before you begin to change it.

While you’re absorbing the culture, ask about your position or others roles, too. A handful of good questions demonstrates your willingness to seek out what you don’t know – a good quality in a new employee – and your interest and enthusiasm for the position you’ve accepted, giving your employer confidence they’ve selected the right person for the job.

“For a new employee, there is only one time to arrive, and that’s on time. Never be late for work,” cautions Burnett, advising that if anything, one should be early.

Not sure if you’re fitting in or faring well in your new office? Ask. It’s important to understand the expectations being set for you in your first few weeks on the job. Ask about the goals early on and do your best to achieve them.

Any new employee will fare best if they do more listening than talking in the early

DARPAN

TM

stages of integration, says Burnett.

Being new brings about certain anxieties, but welcoming another office mate into your environment also comes with challenges. A smooth transition in the early days can prevent disruptions to productivity.

“Other employees can approach a new employee to welcome them to the team and perhaps explain the logistics of the environment, offer to show them the cafeteria, or answer any questions that they have,” says Burnett. By acknowledging their addition to your team, you can create a welcoming environment in which a new employee will be more eager to work well with you.

If the position filled is at the loss of another employee, filling that void could result in undesired attention. New employees are bound to be compared to their predecessors, creating unnecessary pressure for both sides. Trying to be like someone else is sure to negatively effect how well one is able to do their job, and yet expecting someone to live up to or improve on past performance can be draining and distracting.

While acceptance doesn’t have to be handed out right away, altering expectations, acknowledging differences, and allowing performance to dictate

7 Ways to Help Kids Establish a Good Oral Hygiene Routine

By Dr. Sundeep Chohan It is essential for children to develop healthy habits with regards to their oral hygiene, starting as soon as they are old enough to brush.

Inadequate brushing and flossing may lead to tooth decay, which can actually increase the risk of developing issues in permanent teeth.

Getting kids excited about dental hygiene can be a bit challenging, but here are some tips as to how you can support them in establishing an effective dental routine:

Let them pick out their own toothbrush that has their favourite cartoon character or superhero on it.

3

Let them pick out their own kids toothpaste with sparkles and vibrant colors.

4

Buy kid-friendly floss sticks to make it easier for them to use and hold.

5

Provide an incentive. Print off a calendar page each month. Mark off each time they brush and floss with a stamp or sticker. At the end of the month, reward them with something special or an activity.

6

Buy a cute egg timer so they can easily set it for two minutes in the morning and at night to keep track of how long to brush for.

7

Use Positive Reinforcement. Telling kids what a great job they did and how proud you are of them goes a long way!

Even if they don’t understand the importance of good dental hygiene when they are younger, they will be sure to appreciate having a healthy set of teeth when they are older.

Ch oh an

p

2

ee nd

Be a great role model. Kids love to emulate their parents. Treat this as an activity where you brush your teeth together in the mornings and evenings.

u Dr. S

1

BS c , DMD

DON’T ‘FALL’ BEHIND ON YOUR DENTAL CLEANINGS Children’s Dentistry Cosmetic Dentistry Implant Restoration Invisalign Botox® Cosmetic

Sedation 20-Minute Whitening Digital X-Rays Painless Injection System Crown/Bridges/Veneers

FALL SPECIALS ALL PATIENTS

KIDS

FREE

FREE

*

Home Whitening Kit or Electric Toothbrush

*

Exam for kids under five

VISA DEAL* Receive $25 prepaid visa with every exam-xray & cleaning

Call us at 604.593.8201 to book an appointment today! *Limited time offer. Some conditions apply.

Unit 6 – 6450 120th Street Surrey, BC V3W 3M5 Evening and Weekend Appointments!

604.593.8201 DARPAN HealthySmilesDental.ca

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

17

SPECIAL FEATURE Vancouver Public Library Central Library, Level 4 350 West Georgia Street Phone: 604-331-3603 Web:

Employment information for career decisions A free service for immigrants to British Columbia

If the position filled is at the loss of another employee, filling that void could result in undesired attention. New employees are bound to be compared to their predecessors, creating

WelcomeBC

unnecessary pressure for both sides. Trying to be like someone

"Ć„ÄŚ :Ä°Ć• JO

%ÄŚÄŁĆ” 8& $"/ )&-1

“Call the most Experienced And Trusted name in Credit Counselling - Mr. Kalsey� “Proudly providing Services Throughout Canada for Over 15 years!�

YOUR FIRST CONSULTATION IS FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL

OPEN 6 DAYS / WEEK

else is sure to negatively effect how well one is able to do their job, and yet expecting someone to live up to or improve on past performance can be draining and distracting.

LATE EVENINGS & WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

"37*/%&3 4 ,"-4&: LBMTFZ!CTDD DB

"7*/&&5 4 ,"-4&: BLBMTFZ!CTDD DB

SURREY OFFICE #205-12033, 92A Avenue.

Surrey, BC, V3V 4B8

We can help reduce your debts by more than 50% We also help in bankruptcies Credit Card Debts Personal Loans / Line of Credit ICBC Debts Canada Revenue Agency Debts - CRA Income Tax Debts - GST / Payroll Debts Stop Collection Calls Stop Wage Garnishment Stop Property Foreclosure Stop Paying High Interest On Your Credit Cards Make One Small Payment With 0% Interest

ABBOTSFORD OFFICE #1A-2497 Clearbrook Rd. Abbotsford, BC, V2T 2Y3

604-951-8984 www.bscc.ca

TORONTO OFFICE 905.789.8984

a reaction will allow both parties to keep their focus on the task at hand.

Similarly, as an employer, your job of hiring a new employee doesn’t end once they accept the position; their integration into your organization is vital to their success. “A manager should take the time to introduce a new employee to everyone in the department, identifying his or her role and their appropriate background,�

Burnett says. “A good manager will know his or her employees outside interests so when a new employee has a compatible interest, he or she can identify it,� says Burnett. “This helps to build a commonality in their conversation.�

Adding employees to a team can be tough on everyone. An open mind to the situation while keeping the organization’s well-being as the priority will allow for a smooth transition as a new personality, set of skills, and work ethic are integrated into an existing environment. In no time, being new will seem like old news.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

EDMONTON OFFICE 780.716.8984

CALGARY OFFICE 403.714.8984

Call us Nationwide Toll-Free: 1-866-790-8984

Ashley Stephens Ashley Stephens is administrative by day and creative by night.

She loves to write, paint and force her husband to go to the gym on a regular basis. Ashley is a certified Personal Training Specialist, who aims to inspire healthy living for all.

18

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

w w w. a c l a s s a u t o . c a

THE NAME YOU CAN TRUST!

SERVING THE LOWER MAINLAND SINCE 1983 ICBC EXPRESS REPAIR I.C.B.C ACCREDITED VALET SHOP CERTIFIED CRAFTSMEN “LIFETIME” WARRANTY

AMARJIT SAMRA

FREE ESTIMATES COURTESY CARS (NEW MODELS) GLASS REPLACEMENTS PREMIUM QUALITY PAINTS

604-589-2203

RAMAN SAMRA

E: aclassauto@telus.net | F: 604-582-8822 | A: 11954-94th Ave., Delta, B.C. c.a.r.

VALET

Accredited Collision Repairs & Valet Service

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

19

DARPAN SPOTLIGHT

“One fine day, sitting at my journalist desk, I realized I was so focused on getting to the aim of working with a Canadian national newspaper that I didn’t pay attention to how my immigrant journey had changed my perspectives and me.” This moment, Bhamra describes as her moment of “epiphany.”

“I

A JOUR N E Y T O

g n i d n i F

f l e S PHOTO: Adam Rootman

BY GARIMA GOSWAMI

20

Anupreet Sandhu Bhamra shares her journey from an award-winning media

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

have never looked at my life in phases; to me it is a path. I seek an aim, and then I create the path to get to the aim. When I get there, I try and make sense of the journey’s revelations and from that, I seek further, and so my journey continues,” Anupreet replies back as I ask her if she would describe being a blogger and yogini as the best phase of her life. Anupreet Sandhu Bhamra, a name synonymous with OMNI BC’s former identity, Channel M, is an award-winning broadcaster who has lived a career that any aspiring journalist would dream of.

Raised in the city of Jalandhar, Punjab, Bhamra was the first in her family to break into the profession of media. It was while pursuing her undergraduate degree that she started freelancing for The Indian Express, an acclaimed national daily. Later, she enrolled herself in a post-graduate journalism program in New Delhi and shortly, scored herself a fulltime position at The Indian Express in Chandigarh. From here this passionate journalist hopped on to another major national daily, The Hindustan Times.

Moving on to the Canadian chapter, Bhamra explains she arrived in Canada in 2002 and within a period of one year, she was offered the position of a reporter at Channel M, now OMNI BC, which soon translated her presence as an anchor for the Punjabi news segment. “That platform helped me connect with the community and understand its role and struggles in shaping Canada,” Bhamra recalls.

“But as a seeker,” she goes on, “I wanted to move on. I sought to report on larger stories and work as an active ground reporter.”

Although, moving over from a comfortable and sought-after position on a popular

DARPAN SPOTLIGHT www.OriginalCupcakes.com platform seemed questionable to many, for Bhamra it was a path furthering her journalistic explorations. A contract job at the The Vancouver Sun was followed by admission into a journalism Masters program at the UBC, and soon, arrival of their first child.

During the course of her Master’s program, this media personality was recognized with many awards including Global TV’s Broadcaster of the Future Award, and also produced a CBCcommissioned documentary showcasing the journey of a team of medical students travelling to India and assisting a boarding school in the Himalayas to set up a health centre. Straight after graduating, she earned herself a position at the Globe and Mail at their Vancouver office.

“The so-called success still didn’t charm me. One fine day, sitting at my journalist desk, I realized I was so focused on getting to the aim of working with a Canadian national newspaper that I didn’t pay attention to how my immigrant journey had changed my perspectives and me.” This moment, Bhamra describes as her moment of “epiphany.”

After serving her contract term, Bhamra quit and used her time to examine her journey’s revelations. Around this time, Bhamra was pregnant with her second child and for the first time in her life, she decided to take a break from her career. “But the world is unfair to mothers by categorizing them as full-time mothers who don’t work, and full-time working women who are mothers, as if one is lesser than the other.”

Suddenly, Bhamra found everyone questioning this newfound space she had created for herself – her choice of raising kids at home, over a booming career. “As our young family enjoyed bonding over cooking fresh food from scratch, going for walks, swim and art sessions, watching cartoons, people literally told to my face that I had destroyed my career.”

Amidst the societal analysis, Bhamra engrossed herself in Yoga and launched her blog SandhuBhamra.com. Her first blog “I have a womb, breasts and brains. Now give me the freedom to make my choices,” reflects on these experiences and thoughts on her two stay-athome-years. This award-winning blog touches on various topics including parenting, Canadian identity, gender equality and Yoga, which she describes as the biggest gift to herself.

For those looking for more answers about her future – she is pursuing academic research on media at the UBC and continues to voice her ideas in media and as a guest speaker. Recently, one of her research papers was incorporated as a chapter in a book that came out of University of Lincoln, UK.

CUPCAKES@GUILDFORD

Cupcakes Birthday Cakes Wedding Cakes

Gurveen Johal

604 588 2144 | 778 835 3040

Franchisee, Guildford Town Centre

10355 152 St | Unit 1376, Guildford Town Centre

Raja Dhillon

www.RajaDhillon.com

Real Estate Solutions

Raja Dhillon R E S U LT S T H AT WILL MOVE YOU...!

* RESIDENTIAL * COMMERCIAL * TOWNHOMES www.surreyhomesinfo.ca

604-249-4444 INFO@RAJADHILLON.COM

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

21

DARPAN SPOTLIGHT

She is the Founder & Vice President of Operations organization working towards keeping kids away

T

TooR KIRAN

MAKING SOCIETY BETTER

BY SHANEL KHALIQ

22

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

wenty year old Kiran Toor’s volunteering spirit started off quite early; throughout her high school she has helped with projects related to the needs of special children.

She has an ambition for volunteering and helping organizations that work towards the betterment of society. At present, she is the Founder and Vice President of Operations Management at Kid’s Play – a non-profit organization working towards keeping kids away from the lifestyle of drugs, gangs and violence.

Kid’s Play is the brainchild of Veteran officer, Kalwinder Dosanjh, and Olympian, Arjan Singh Bhullar. Dosanjh, who has worked in the Downtown Eastside for a number of years, started a youth soccer program.

This idea was to bring forth disadvantaged youth from lower socio-economic backgrounds and help them adopt healthier lifestyles. Due to their exposure to criminal environments, they easily fall prey to drugs and gangs. The program has grown tremendously over the past few years and has had more than 1,500 youth participants.

The two men came together and decided to start up an organization which utilized education and sports to deter youth away from a criminal lifestyle. “Our organization aims to bring about a positive change in the community. As we say our children are our future, we focus on age groups from 14 to 17 years old, although, our volunteers

Pa# ' $ n!apn$ ! asl$ !k( # bs# r& $ Breakthrough Formula ) o!bana# ' ! aapk' !sk$ n!ko!so) & ! a# r!s$ lk# * !w$ & ( o# & !& ( ' ! gr' as# !) ' ' l!o) !bo% # !o$ l"

Discover your natural beauty

YC! I" E!NY! # an% !( ' lps!pr' an% !s$ lk# !all!% r' pl' n$ s( !# o#

RYLS®!Collo$ % al!Oa& m' al!lo) ks!$ n!mo$ s& # r' ! " ' n& !% r# !sk$ n!l' a" $ ng!# o# r!sk$ n!) ' ' l$ ng!so) & ! a# !long" !! ( ' !bl' n% !o) !na& # ral!o$ ls!works!& o! r!sk$ n’s!na& # ral!mo$ s& # r' " !

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

23

© The Johnson & Johnson Reflecting South-Asian LifestyleInc. 2015

www.FibretechBC.ca

SURREY

VANCOUVER

8247 - 130 Street., Surrey, B.C.

1375 Kingsway Vancouver B.C.

(604) 507-2199

(604) 872-2198

8645-160TH FLEETWOOD, SURREY www.AtriumCentreSurrey.com

COMING SPRING 2017 ATRIUM is an upscale, hi-tech building with an architectural design and features that is built for the future.

Built on a solid concrete construction, and comprising an extensive underground parkade, the buidling is only a block away from Fraser Highway and close to the upcoming Surrey Rapid Translink, providing you with easy access.

ATRIUM is open for lease to professionals or organisations seeking to set up office in the fast-growing city of Surrey.

BOOKINGS OPEN NOW!

HIGH-END OFFICE & RETAIL SPACES FOR LEASE Located in the heart of Fleetwood Modern contemporary designs High quality finishings throughout Ample store-front windows and signage to enhance exposure Dual access to street and parking area for some units 41 surface and 58 underground parking stalls & 14 street parking Suitable for: Banks, Clinics, Offices, Cafes & Restaurants and other retail 5 showrooms and 10 shops

FOR LEASING ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT: AVTAR MANN

24

PHILIP CHENG

604.644.5641

604.640.5827 | 604.683.0432

info@avtarmann.com

philip.cheng@ca.cushwake.com

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

are from 12 to 28 year olds,” says Toor.

Kids Play encourages participation in sports by engaging youth in activities that are healthy for body and mind. “The initiative of this program is to develop in our youth the skills that will assist them in becoming successful leaders and innovators in the future,” explains Toor.

The use of social media has helped the organization promote its events, and in turn, its cause. “Youth and almost all age groups are active on social media, so we promote our events primarily through social media and it has been an effective median in promoting our cause,” says the young Vice President.

Toor helps organize events hosted by Kids Play. Kid’s Play has organized a number of sporting events such as The Western Canada Age Class Championships, Anti-Racism Forum, Youth Gang Violence Forum, and BC Place Tournament. “We team up with local nonprofits and sports clubs to hold these events. A hockey tournament with Panthers Hockey Club and a track and field meet with Universal Athletics Club are two events we held by teaming up with local sports clubs,” points out Toor, adding, “In the upcoming months, we have a cricket tournament, a basketball tournament, and a drug and gang conference planned.”

Toor enjoys being a part of this program as it works towards the improvement of society by preventing children and youth from getting involved with drugs and gangs, and by keeping a positive trend of motivation through sports.

She believes that identity issues faced by children of immigrant families are deep rooted and are oftentimes the cause of their involvement in gang lifestyles. She explains, “In the process of securing the amenities and financial freedom for their children, parents were working hard, and in many cases, children were left neglected without proper parental supervision. These youth, who were seeking acceptance and identification, sought associations in gang environments.”

She also feels that finding shortcuts to success is another factor that encourages youngsters to fall into this trap. “The Big Mac-Coca Cola generation seek instantaneous stratification and overnight results. In other words, the quick and easy lure of drug money is overwhelming.”

Beyond Kids Play, Toor has also visited India and has been interested in educational projects there. She helps with the Akal Society and is also involved in the starting up of the Guru Kashi University in Punjab.

She plans to complete her undergraduate degree at Simon Frazer University and attend law school later to establish a career in corporate law. “Alongside attending law school, I wish to represent South East Asian women by working at a law enforcement agency,” she adds.

FOR SALE

12565 88TH AVENUE, SURREY, BC PROFESSIONAL STRATA RETAIL AND OFFICE

ONLY 3 RETAIL UNITS LEFT!

TRITON CENTRE Office and retail opportunity for sale. The proposed

90TH AVE

development will consist of 26,000 sf ground floor retail strata and 26,000 sf

N

1

second floor office strata. Unit sizes starting from 584 sf and up.

2

126TH STREET

Subject Property

13 14

3

15 16 17 18 19

4 5

11 11

12 20 21 22

6

23

7

8

9 10

88TH AVE

HUDGE PARMAR Personal Real Estate Corporation Vice President 604.640.5856 hudge.parmar@ca.cushwake.com Suite 700 - 700 W Georgia St PO Box 10023, Pacific Centre Vancouver, BC V7Y 1A1 604.683.3111 1.877.788.3111 www.cushmanwakefield.com OCTOBER 2015 TM SEPTEMBER/

DARPAN

E.&O.E.: The information contained herein was obtained from sources which we deem reliable and, while thought to be correct, is not guaranteedReflecting

by CushmanThe & Wakefield Ltd.Lifestyle South-Asian

25

DARPAN SPOTLIGHT

KABIR GILL

PHOTO: A Master Media Photography

BY SHANEL KHALIQ

MINOR HOCKEY dYNAMO

I

t is hard to believe that Kabir Gill is just 14 years old. The young ice hockey star, who was drafted by Seattle earlier this year, is 6 feet 2 inches weighing 205 pounds.

Out of a total of 250 players, Gill was the only player of Punjabi origin to be drafted.

Gill started skating at the age of three and hockey came when he was five. He began his journey

26

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

as a hockey player as part of the Cloverdale Minor Hockey Association (CMHA). After playing for the CMHA for three years, Gill spent the last six years playing AAA (the highest caliber of minor hockey) under some great coaches to finish his minor hockey career.

His day usually starts at 6 am and ends at 11 pm and comprises of training on and

DARPAN

TM

off ice, school, homework, meals, and spending time with his family.

“It’s not easy trying to be an elite athlete. Everything is very structured. To play at this level you really need to sacrifice a lot of time and energy,” says Gill.

He was one of eight kids to ever win back to back Western Canadian Championship with the North Shore Winter Club (NSWC).

Gill had a great year with his

personal statistics this year in NSWC putting up 23 goals and 52 assists for 75 points as a defence man.

Having just finished his season at the NSWC, the young athlete has already made it to the Major Midget League with Valley West Hawks as a first year.

For Gill, hockey is his life and he dreams of playing in the National Hockey League (NHL). “My goal is to play in the Western Hockey League (WHL) when I am 16 or 17, and then on to the NHL,” he says.

At the same time, he is well aware of the importance of school and is confident of balancing both.

Gill attends Elgin Park Secondary School in White Rock. Family has been a huge support system for him – not only financially but also mentally. “My dad takes out a lot of time; he picks me up from school and drives me every day to North Shore. Even my grandparents come to watch my games. My mother makes sure that I am always prepared – be it my meals, school work or other daily activities.”

Gill was picked 103rd overall by the Seattle Thunderbirds in this year’s Bantam Draft and is training in Saskatoon with an agency for his upcoming hockey camp. He has been training five to six days a week since the past few months getting ready for his first upcoming WHL camp. He is looking forward to a big championship tournament in December for a Major Midget Hockey tournament.

Gill understands injuries to be one of the biggest obstacles that players have to face. “In November I hurt my back so I missed a big part of the end of the season. It was tough knowing that your rankings would drop, but then I realized that I’m just 14 and it’s just Bantam Hockey”.

Whenever he is not busy with hockey and school, Gill spends time with his friends playing ping pong or go-karting as he is usually fond of socializing. “I am just happy about what I’ve done so far, I haven’t really accomplished great things but I’m hoping for great things,” he sums up.

FREE TEETH WHITENING with paid exams & x-rays (FOR NEW PATIENTS ONLY)

Dr. Aman Kang & Associates

Children’s Dentistry, Invisalign, Teeth Extractions, Root Canal Treatment, Dentures, Teeth Whitening, Crown and Bridges FREE ORAL CANCER SCREENING

Open Evenings and Weekends!

12052 82 Ave. Surrey BC V3W 3P2 DARPAN www.scott82dental.com

120A St.

604.590.7000

82nd Ave.

2015 80th Ave. TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

27

Â

STORY

28

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

M E E T

T H E

CRANBERRY

KING

PETER DHILLON From being the CEO of Richberry Group of Companies and the

Chairman of the Board of Directors of Ocean Spray Cranberries Ltd. to being well-known for his philanthropic activities and charity work, Peter Dhillon’s work ethics and beliefs make him a true achiever in every possible way. He shares with DARPAN his success story and talks about the two biggest achievements in his life.

BY Petrina D Souza

P

eter Dhillon – he needs no introduction as his work speaks for himself. Richberry Group of Companies CEO, Dhillon, was recently in the news for his partnership with the University of British Columbia (UBC) to establish the Peter P. Dhillon Centre for Business Ethics at the Sauder School of Business. Sauder and Dhillon have together committed $7.5 million in funding toward the partnership, which will support the study, teaching and promotion of values-driven business practices locally, nationally and around the world.

The Richberry Group of Companies was founded by Dhillon’s parents, Harbhajan Dhillon and the late Rashpal Dhillon. In 1978, Dhillon’s parents went

into a partnership on a cranberry farm, and then in 1985 they decided to go on their own starting with a small operation.

Today, the company comprises of several cranberry operations, which combined, are one of Ocean Spray Cranberries largest shareholders and suppliers.

Dhillon started getting training on the know-how of the business right from the age of 11. “My mom would drive me to work to our farms. I would drive by our neighbours’ homes and they would be sleeping at 6 in the morning. During summer, I would always be envious of them as they get to enjoy their summer and I have to go to work,” he recalls, “I did not realize until later on in my life that what my father was tying to instil in me was a strong work ethic.”

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

29

Peter Dhillon has served as:

One of the things that I have learned recently is to make sure that in my company I have the right people in the right places and I trust them.

I let them do what they are supposed to do.

Board Director, Canada Customs and Revenue Agency

In the process he learned a lot of values from his father, which are still rooted in him. “He taught me to never take anything for granted and always work hard. He said that you have to be good to be lucky. He taught me the importance of giving back to community, through time and donating capital.”

It was probably this learning experience that encouraged him to choose the business over a law career during his college years. Dhillon graduated from the UBC where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in History. He continued his education in the UK with a LL.B. with

Board Director, Canwel Building Materials Board Director, Seacor Environmental Board Director, Vancouver Airport Authority Board Director, VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation Board Governor, Simon Fraser University Chairman of the Board of Directors, Ocean Spray Cranberries Ltd. Chairman of the Audit Committee, Vancouver 2010 Organizing Committee Board Member of the Board, Vancouver 2010 Bid Corporation Vice Chairman, Agriculture Land Commission Vice Chairman, British Columbia Ferry Corporation

30

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

honours from the University of Leeds. At the age of 27, he had a choice to either practise law or join the family business.

Dhillon picked business.

When he joined, it was a small company. Together, he and his parents started to build it. “I was fortunate for the things that I learned from my mother and father to continue to grow our company. It began from there, today we are the largest Canadian producer of cranberry and largest Canadian shareholder of a multinational company Ocean Spray,” says Dhillon proudly.

It has always been an upward climb for this cranberry king. The loss of his father 12 years ago – who was his inspiration, mentor and motivator – was the toughest moment for him. “I wish I had more time with him,” shares Dhillon, while reminiscing the beautiful moments spent with his father. “When I look back, some of the most memorable moments I had were with my father while I was a kid. I had a wonderful relationship with

O N L Y D R I V E

T H O S E T H E

W H O

W O R L D

D A R E F O R W A R D

201 6 —

C O M I N G

S O O N

—

2016 Cadillac CT6 Innovatively engineered and exquisitely crafted, the CT6 combines advanced technology with breathtaking design. An entirely new, lightweight vehicle architecture for a superb driving experience that is agile, solid, and secure is matched with an available 3.0L V6 Twin-Turbo engine. Every journey delivers the utmost comfort and convenience for all with optional Bose® Panaray® Sound System, individual climate control and extended comfort seats with 5 massage settings.

The result is a daring expression of ambition.

OWNER

Courtesy Transportation/Roadside Assistance OnStar ®

PRIVILEGES

Hwy

Now Offering AIR MILES®

1

#10 Highway

200th Street and #10 Hwy, Langley 604.534.4154 prestongm.com

200 St.

4 yr/80,000 km Warranty* No Charge Scheduled Maintenance

X

SALES HOURS Mon to Thurs: 8:30am - 9pm Fri & Sat: 9am - 6pm Sun & Holidays 11am - 5pm DL30568

*Plus taxes and fees w/3000.00 down. Residual value 23958.00. 20,000 km/yr. CONDITIONS MAY APPLY. SEE DEALER FOR DETAILS. Sale prices DO NOT INCLUDE documentation services fee of $595 or applicable taxes. ®™ Trademarks of AIR MILES International Trading B.V. Used under license by LoyaltyOne, Co. and Preston Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac Ltd.

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

31

Peter Dhillon won DARPAN’s Corporate Engagement Award in 2014 for his achievements as a leader and entrepreneur in the South Asian community.

Dhillon has partnered with the University of British Columbia to establish the Peter P. Dhillon Centre for Business Ethics at Sauder School of Business.

I was fortunate for the things that I learned from my mother and father to continue to grow our company. It began from there, today we are the largest Canadian producer of cranberry and largest Canadian shareholder of a multinational company Ocean Spray.”

32

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

my father, we were best friends. I always wanted to make my father proud. Even today, I have a painting of him and I talk to him, and everyday I say to him, ‘Please make me do good things today’.”

Dhillon is currently Chairman of the Board of Directors of Ocean Spray Cranberries Ltd. – the youngest and first Canadian to hold the position.

In 2003, he was elected to the board; in 2014 he became the Chairman of the board. “What makes it special for me is that I was the first nonAmerican to become the chairman. Being an American company, there were a number of American chairmen before me. So to become the first nonAmerican and Canadian, it really shows me that my board doesn’t distinguish what your nationality is. They look at who can lead the organization into the future. Being the youngest was confidence in my ability that I can lead the company into the future. Also my past experience sitting on many boards gave my board the confidence that I was ready at a young age to be chairman,” expresses the young achiever.

He calls this honour as one out of the

DARPAN

TM

two best achievements in his life so far.

“It was something I used to look up to; it was a wow factor for me. These were important people and I never thought that it would be something I would do,” says Dhillon, who won DARPAN’s Extraordinary Achievement Awards for Corporate Engagement last year.

The other biggest achievement was getting the Order of British Columbia. In 2009, he received the Order of British Columbia in recognition of his achievements and services.

“Not that it was expected but it was appreciated that some of the things that I did and do were recognised. I look at those who receive the Order of British Columbia as role models for the rest of the society.

If I can do that, it’s great.”

Dhillon has also held many other board positions including: Vice Chairman, British Columbia Ferry Corporation; Board Director, Canada Customs and Revenue Agency; Board Director, Vancouver Airport Authority; Board Governor, Simon Fraser University; Board Director, Seacor Environmental; Chairman of the Audit Committee, Vancouver 2010 Organizing

COVER STORY Specialist in All Inclusive Getaways, Groups, Destination Weddings and Honeymoon Receive Air Miles on all of your bookings. With any group booking of 10 or more adults receive a Free Gift Card $250 towards any of your favorite retailer.

Please call our Travel Experts for assistance.

Peter Dhillon’s parents, Harbhajan Dhillon and the late Rashpal Dhillon

Committee Board; and Board Director, Canwel Building Materials, among many others.

He is also well-known for his philanthropic activities and charity work – a value that he learnt from his parents. “My dad’s business partner, Jack Bell, taught my father and me about the importance of giving back. My parents were both instrumental in giving back, not just here but in India as well. It’s been something that I have watched my parents do,” says Dhillon, who is interested in creating awareness on idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis – the disease that killed his father. “There is very little known about the disease. The disease kills more people than breast cancer. I want to create more awareness about it and try to see how we help better deal with it.”

One of the examples of his philanthropic work is the establishment of the Peter P. Dhillon Centre for Business Ethics. The idea came to Dhillon’s mind two and half years ago while talking about it with his friend, Herb Baum, who he was visiting in Florida.

“We spoke about what had happened on the financial collapse of the world wide economy. If things were worse, I was concerned what would happen. It was because of the misbehaviour of corporate America.

We realized somebody had to so something and the way to get this change was probably through education,” he explains.

He then started having conversations with the UBC two years ago about this vision.

“When I was working with the UBC, it surprised me there wasn’t really anything out there [education on business ethics]. I felt that there was a real need that it happened and the UBC, Sauder Business School and myself put this programme together.” It will be the first centre at a Canadian business school

Email: dean.malik@marlintravel.ca | Web: www.marlintravel.ca/1550

Ph: 604.588.8300 | Cell: 604.339.8039

Dean Malik, Owner #320-2270 Central City Mall Surrey BC V3T 2W1

Family Law

Commercial Litigation

“At Virk Law Group, we treat you and your legal matter with professionalism,

General Civil Litigation

www.virklawgroup.com

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

33

www.darpanmagazine.com

Reflecting SouthAsian Lifestyle

Subscribe Today!

E: info@darpanmagazine.com | T: 604.537.7277

AMANDEEP S. SANGHERA

JAGDEEP S. KHUN-KHUN

PUNEET P. K. SANDHAR

BARINDER S. SANGHERA

ICBC/PERSONAL INJURY IMMIGRATION LAW CRIMINAL LAW REAL ESTATE / SUBDIVISIONS CORPORATE / COMMERCIAL BUYING & SELLING BUSINESSES / LEASES CIVIL LITIGATION

Suite 203 - 7134 King George Blvd, Surrey, BC V3W 5A3

T: 604.543.8484 | F: 604.543.8584 | 1.877.778.8484 www.slglawyers.com An Association of Independent Lawyers & Law Corporations

34

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

COVER STORY to take a comprehensive approach to the study, teaching and promotion of business ethics.

The UBC alumnus has a deep connection with the university for two reasons. One – it is his alma mater, two – when his grandfather passed away, Dhillon’s father started giving back to the UBC. “He started a scholarship for students from India who come to Canada to be educated,” says Dhillon, adding, “I really believe in the institution. I believe it’s a wonderful place and you can do so much for the society.

I am a big fan of the university.”

In 2006, the Dhillon family gave the UBC a 2006 gift of $2 million toward two initiatives at the university named in remembrance of Dhillon’s father. The gift established the Rashpal Dhillon Fund in Idiopathic Pulmonary Research and Rashpal Dhillon Track and Field Oval, which opened on the UBC campus in 2010.

The successful businessman wants people from his community to be more involved in contributing towards society. “The South Asian community has done extremely well. A lot of people from our community have nice homes and nice cars. I’m proud that my community has become so successful. What I like to see is our community starting to think about giving back to society a little more.”

Ask him how he balances work and other related activities, and Dhillon says, “By being better organized and delegating. One of the things that I have learned recently is to make sure that in my company I have the right people in the right places and I trust them. I let them do what they are supposed to do.”

Beyond work life, the 50 year old is passionate about biking (an interest he lately developed), and fitness (he works out five to six days a week). He has done the GranFondo ride from Downtown to Whistler before and wishes to do it again this year. “There was a point when I would put exercise and health secondary and business first. Then I realised that health is first priority, if I can look after that I can look after everything,” points out the fit CEO. Looking at the values and work ethics Dhillon believes in, he definitely is an inspirational figure for new businessmen and youngsters. He advises new and upcoming businessmen to be persistent and never give up. As for youngsters, he says, “Do what you love; if you don’t love it, don’t do it!”

“If somebody comes up to you and asks who do you want to be in your next life, if you can’t say yourself, then you need to make changes, because the answer should be I want to come back as me,” sums up Dhillon.

OPENING FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 9:30 A.M. PACIFIC CENTRE SHARE YOUR STYLE #NORDSTROMVAN

NIRA , RADIO SHOW HOST | CHECK OUT YOUR NEIGHBOURS AT NORDSTROM.COM/VANCOUVER

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

35

A Glimpse of the

nd

42 Canadian

Federal Elections

BY Allen Walter

36

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

The 2015 election is filled with as much uncertainty as what the country’s 42nd cast of Parliamentarians will face in the months ensuing.

P

rime Minister Stephen Harper ushered in the longest election campaign of the country’s modern history when he dropped the writ on August 2, 78 days prior to the election.

The political landscape is shifting, structurally, with the addition of 30 seats in the House of Commons, the inclusion of two party leaders on their first federal campaign trails, and an exodus of politicians all interposed on brooding issues surrounding a receding economy, challenged environment, and national and foreign policy initiatives at diametric odds with Canadian civil liberties.

The 2015 federal general election is filled with as much uncertainty as what the country’s 42nd cast of Parliamentarians will face in the months ensuing.

The House expands Party heads Justin Trudeau (Liberal), Elizabeth May (Green), Tom Mulcair (NDP) and Stephen Harper (Conservative) at the Maclean's National Leaders Debate 2015.

Democratic Reform Minister Tim Uppal presented a report that showed, to support the work of the new Members of Parliament (MPs), it will cost $19.3 million plus an additional $15.2 million just to hold the actual elections on October 19, when polls open

for voting.

Under the Fair Representation Act, Ontario will receive 15 new seats, Alberta and British Columbia, six each, and Quebec, three. The changes will be so substantial that nearly every district in Canada will be altered or affected in some way, whether minute or large. Only a few dozen of the original 308 ridings will be untouched, two of which sit in B.C.’s northern parts.

Richard Johnston, Canada research chair in public opinion, elections and representation, said, “If you transpose the 2011 vote to the 2015 boundaries, a large expansion of the Conservative majority can be identified.” In the NDP-held Burnaby-Douglas riding, for instance, a large piece of the Conservative voting base situated in North Vancouver will bleed into this riding, making it more competitive. Though, Johnston also indicated that the vote is up for grabs in the ridings created in Metro Vancouver and the Greater Toronto Area.

Incumbents and running The Harper Conservatives have formed government since 2006, which includes two minorities and the most recent

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

37

This election may be one of the most challenging to predict in recent history.

With 30 new ridings necessitating the redefining of boundaries in the vast majority of the over 300 ridings nationwide, there’s much and more to debate. Add to the mix an election with two leaders who are novice federal campaigners, a slumping economy, and a party which has been in power for nearly the past decade, and the whiffs of change feel as if they’re mingling in the air.

38

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

majority where they won 166 seats in the House. That number has since reduced to 159.

The upcoming election will see an exodus of Conservative incumbents, just over 30, who will not be seeking reelection in this election. Peter MacKay – who held nearly a handful of high profile portfolios in national defence and foreign affairs prior to his current position in justice. As well, the sudden

DARPAN

TM

resignation of John Baird, which prompted a carousel of ministers in prime cabinet positions.

Appointments are Harper’s way of signalling approval; a grant of upward mobility is the Prime Minister’s tactic that keeps members in line.

But this partisanship came to bite the Conservatives when the Senate spending scandal emerged and which now sits in court with Mike Duffy – a Conservative Senator and Harper appointee – having to defend against allegations of fraud and breach of trust.

And Duffy wasn’t the only Canadian senator wrapped up in legal battles, which have since prompted myriad discussions by politicians and party leaders regarding Senate reform.

But, as UBC’s Johnston states, “In the case of the government, it’s all out there, it’s all happened already.” This is the advantage and baggage the Conservatives have as government.

Harper’s Conservatives are also a fundraising machine, something which may have played into Harper’s reasoning to drop the writ as early as he did. As Johnston stated, the Conservatives are simply more efficient at raising money.

SPECIAL FEATURE

PHOTO: MACLEANS, PMO, NDP, LibErALS, CONSErvATivES

“They have raised about twice as much as other parties.”

The Conservatives propose to protect the tax-free savings account, extend a permanent home renovation tax credit as well as a tax-free RRSP withdrawal limits of up to $35,000 for first-time home buyers.

Safety and security is another pillar in the Conservative agenda, historically, and in 2015, it is no different, especially following the incidents that claimed the lives of Corporal Nathan Cirillo and Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent in October 2014. The Tories have proposed protections against terrorism, part and parcel of this is the banning of travel to known terrorist zones. But nothing strikes as far-reaching as Bill C-51.

The bill passed with Liberal support in May of this year. In broad terms, the legislation provides police with powers labelled as preventative arrest, increases in investigative reach, and scope of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service and the criminalization of the promotion of terrorism.

While critics have raised issues over the lack of oversight in lieu of such expansive powers granted to federal agencies, the Conservatives remain steadfast that the legislation that exists in C-51 is necessary to protect the public against terrorist actions.

However, whether tax breaks, credits and policies on public safety and security are enough to maintain the blue tide of support as realized in 2011 remains to be seen.

www.agnihotriimmigration.com

We provide all immigration services Federal Skilled worker

Permanent residence card

Arranged employment

Citizenship applications

Canadian experience class

Passport applications

Provincial nominee programs Business/Investor Services Family class sponsorships

US visitor visa Work permits, student visas & visitor visas

Two Locations to Serve You Better! #204-12788 76A Ave SURREY, BC | #210-7270 Market Crossing, BURNABY, BC

T : 6 0 4 - 5 9 7 - 2 2 8 4 | F : 6 0 4 - 5 9 7 - 2 2 8 5 Neera Agnihotri

Home Staging

Interior Design

Color Consultation

Make a Great first impression You only have five seconds to make a good first impression on a buyer when selling your home”

Rita Chohan

Founder & Owner

Leading the Orange Wave The fiery Tom Mulcair demonstrated in Question Period and other calculated moments that he was up to the task of leading the Official Opposition, playing foil to Harper’s Conservative machine.

Mulcair’s opposition has challenged the Conservative regime on the economy, the government’s jobs record and position on anti-terrorism policy, all the while extending a NDP-centric platform

An-Elegant-Touch-Home-Staging-and-Design

eleganthomestaging

T: 604-657-6612 | F: 604-207-0444 E: info@aneleganttouch.ca

www.aneleganttouch.ca DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

39

SPECIAL FEATURE

* The representational graphic in the article includes the national poll results of August 2015.

DARPAN Magazine does not support or promote any of the parties mentioned in the article.

Harper’s Conservatives are also a fundraising machine, something which may have played into Harper’s reasoning to drop the writ as early as he did.

ECONOMY TAXES ENVIRONMENT

PRICES

FAMILY CLIMATE CHANGE

SMALL BUSINESS

40

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

that contains conventional investment strategy and left-leaning initiatives.

In the Maclean’s debate, in early August, Mulcair pointed to Canada’s declining employment figures and drew attention to the country’s shrinking economy, citing the five months prior as evidence of a receding economy. It left the Prime Minister with no option but to agree where he had previously eschewed the term.

“On Mr. Harper’s watch, “we’ve lost 400,000 well-paid manufacturing jobs,” said Mulcair, during the debate with the main party leaders. “There are 200,000 more unemployed today than when the crisis hit in 2008.”

The NDP have hinged their political cart to the middle class – as the other parties have as well – and job creation.

The current caucus of 95 – a number that sat at 103 following 2011’s election – sees investment in infrastructure and breaks for small and medium-sized corporation as the way to push the country’s economy forward.

The NDP are also leaning heavily on family and have extended an initiative to create a million $15.00-a-day child care spaces, along with a $15 minimum wage in sectors under federal regulation.

Seniors are addressed via a proposed

DARPAN

TM

reduction of the qualifying year for Old Age Security.

But the widest dichotomy between the Conservatives and the NDP is their opposing stances on the government’s anti-terrorism bill, C-51. Mulcair has vowed to repeal the legislation if he was to take up the office of the Prime Minister.

Not your Trudeau was elected Liberal Party leader in April 2013. After the party was decimated in the 2011 federal election where they saw their base shrink to 34 seats (currently 36 in caucus), the Grits were prepared to make any changes necessary to recoup popular opinion – Trudeau was the most visible path.

The party’s campaign slogan, ‘It’s time for Real Change’, defines the Liberal Party election platform as one centred on reshaping the country. Trudeau entered early in the campaign trail that he could not rule out a budget deficit if his Liberal regime was to assume power. This he blames on Conservative bookkeeping.

Though the policies proposed by the Grits may also be contributory as there

For All Of Your Real-Estate Needs Just A Phone Call Away

Whom does the general population want?

DARPAN conducted an online opinion poll asking its readers who they think will win the elections and be the next Prime Minister of Canada. The results were surprising. About 41% of the participants believe that Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau will win the 42nd Canadian Federal Elections. Prime Minister Stephen Harper from the Conservative party received 32% of the votes, whereas NDP’s Tom Mulcair received 23%. Green party’s Elizabeth May received the lowest votes – just 5%.

are widespread initiatives covering the economy, environment and government that require millions, if not billions, of dollars to put in place.

Economically, the Liberals vow to offer a tax break to the middle class - of course vying for this so-important, and looselydefined, political base – by shaving the bracket by seven percent and dropping the taxable percentage to 20.5 percent from 22. Another initiative, the Canada Child Benefit, pledges to send families a tax-free monthly amount up to $533, per child, depending on the child’s age and family’s income.

The Liberals also pledge to invest in clean technology and vow action on climate change, to protect our freshwater and oceans. Further to the party’s idea on open and fair government is the repeal of the Conservative’s Citizen Voting Act and improved access to online government services. In addition, the Liberals wish to save home mail delivery and propose to bridge the relationship with First Nations and the United States.

SAMEER KAUSHAL

(B.SC, MBA)

PERSONAL REALESTATE CORPORATION

604-897-9575 w w w .SameerKaushal. c o m Follow us on Twitter!

“

Overseas Auto Body & Auto Glass is revolutionizing the repair & collision industry with its state of the art equipment and highly trained staff.”

Simran Sekhon

We Repair Import & Domestic Models | Mobile Auto Glass Services | I.C.B.C. Major Damage Expert I.C.B.C. Glass Vendor | Guaranteed Workmanship | Friendly Dependable Service

Courtesy Cars Available Free Pick Up & Drop Off | FREE ESTIMATES SURREY

604.594.9707

ABBOTSFORD

7638 129A Street Anvil Way Surrey BC, V3W 4H7

604.853.9707

2342 Windsor Street, Abbotsford BC V2T 6M1

overseasautobody@telus.net | www.overseasautobody.com

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

41

SPECIAL FEATURE Economically, the Liberals vow to offer a tax break to the middle class by shaving the bracket by seven percent and dropping the taxable percentage to 20.5 percent from 22.

Moreover, there is mention of changing the Senate – not abolishment – by creating “a new, non-partisan, merit-based, broad and diverse process to advise the Prime Minister on Senate appointments.”

In 2014, the Liberal leader had removed all Senate members with the party’s affiliation following the burst of scandals that erupted in the Red Chamber from

inappropriate claims on expenses by particular Senators. The maneuver was historic and an attempt at transforming the partisan makeup of the body without having to go through any constitutional debate as abolishment would necessitate.

The Liberals are clearly on a path to redemption clinging to as many perceived popular policy initiatives in an attempt to reclaim its lost support. But whether Trudeau can shed the shadow of inexperience cast on him is difficult to pinpoint as is how much it could play out in the voting public’s mind at the polls next month.

Change in the air This election may be one of the most challenging to predict in recent history.

With 30 new ridings necessitating

EXPECT MORE.

A top-quality education in a dynamic values-based environment

VISIT CAMPUS Oct 23–24, 2015 Nov 20, 2015 Feb 19–20, 2016 Mar 18–19, 2016 Reserve your spot at twu.ca/visit!

42

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

the redefining of boundaries in the vast majority of the over 300 ridings nationwide, there’s much and more to debate.

Add to the mix an election with two leaders who are novice federal campaigners, a slumping economy, and a party which has been in power for nearly the past decade, and the whiffs of change feel as if they’re mingling in the air.

The question remains whether the Conservatives can hold (or even expand) their base, the New Democrats can become a governing party for the first time in federal history or the Grits can find a resurgence under Trudeau’s guidance and far-reaching policy initiatives. Also to keep an eye on will be whether May’s Greens or the Bloc Quebecois under Gilles Duceppe (once again) can improve on their fringe status in the House with one and four seats respectively.

Our Services: Road Construction Residential and urban streets Highways Airport runways

Utility Construction Water supply mains Storm sewer mains Sanitary sewer mains Lift stations Booster pump stations

Earthworks Residential, commercial & institutional developments Land clearing, bulk earthworks Excavation Landfill preparation or closure Site Servicing Sanitary and storm sewer, water mains Culverts Hydro, Telecom & Cable underground installation Street-lighting Roadwork, asphalt paving, curbing and sidewalks Boulevard grading, landscaping and irrigation Retaining walls Sub-Divisions

Structural Projects Bridges Storm detention tanks Structural components of lift stations Booster pump stations Reservoirs Water treatment plants Waste transfer stations

Shoring & Deep Foundations Wet & Dry Shotcrete Grouting Seismic Upgrades Mini Piles Tie Down Anchors Structural Shotcrete Shoring Foundations Jet Grouting

“

Mainland has earned a reputation for delivering consistent solutions to major infrastructure challenges. We will continue to assist our clients with strategy, cost and productivity to drive financial improvements in commercial and residential projects.�

- GARY DHALIWAL PRESIDENT

Flood Mitigation

Our Companies:

Bank and dyke protection Gravel extraction

Aggregates Gravel processing Rock quarrying Aggregate sale

CIVIL WORKS INC.

SHORING & DEEP FOUNDATIONS LTD.

CIVIL SITE SERVICES INC.

EXCAVATION & SHORING LTD.

INFRASTRUCTURE GROUP LTD.

We are positioned to meet the challenges our clients face today in a changing competitive economy.

Mainland welcomes your call for either an estimate or questions you may have.

Unit 206, 12899 - 80th Avenue Surrey, BC, V3W0E6

DARPAN

www.mainlandgroup.ca

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

43

SPECIAL FEATURE

Handing

Temper TantrumS in kids 44

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

BY Kavita Shyam

Parents may have to even deal with power struggles when a child commands ‘I can do it myself or I want give it to Shyam me’ and other such BYit,Kavita crabbiness. Does all of this sound very familiar to you? Well, fret not. You are not the only parent burning his or her face in embarrassment due to the emotional melt-downs or grumpiness thrown in by your little ones. There are simple ways to tackle the angry outburst when tantrum strikes.

d

o you often see your child throwing tantrums and are worried if your toddler will grow up to be a tantrum king or

their parents to buy them a certain toy or dress, not following the instructions set by the parents.

The tantrums could include endless whining, crying, screaming, kicking, hitting, and teeth-jarring screams. struggles when a child commands ‘I can do it

you? Well, fret not. You are not the only parent burning his or her face in embarrassment due to the emotional melt-downs or grumpiness thrown in by your little ones. There are simple ways to tackle the angry outburst when tantrum strikes.

To begin with, tantrums are simply a child’s way to show frustrations. One must remember that the relationship between parent-child is tender and

needs to be handled with utmost care.

If you tend to reward your child’s tantrums with something he/she wants or allow your child to get out of situations by throwing a tantrum, this will continue like a chain reaction. So parents, instead of looking at them as a blow, treat tantrums as a chance to educate your child.

“Temper and tantrums are common in kids throw tantrums at the drop of a hat. There is no other way a small child can show his/her upset feeling or frustration. My kids show tantrums when they are tired, hungry, sleepy or uncomfortable mother of two young daughters in Ottawa, Ontario. deal with frustrations, they take time to mature and understand the dos and dont’s of life. “When my daughter started to talk, her language skills

She suggests ways to control the frustration.

“These days, toddlers want independence and when my kids get frustrated. I praise them a lot to help them feel proud of what they can do. I do not always say no, I consider and accommodate

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

45

SPECIAL FEATURE

tant. “My friend’s daughter used to show temper if she did She would kick, bite and pinch, which is when the parent cannot possibly keep calm. The tiny tots learn from elders

2

Calm your child by praising him or her for positive behaviour. The trick is to comfort and reward your child without giving in to the demands. Give plenty of positive attention to the child, hug and reassure love to your child.

Child psychologist Archana Jain, states some dos and don’ts while dealing with tantrum-prone kids:

1

Ignore or stop responding to the tantrums. Often it works in your favour as tantrums do not last for too long in children.

If you try to end it, you may worsen it.

3 4

If it is severe, do not mock at or punish a child who throws a tantrum. Acknowledge the frustration or anger after the child calms down.

There are ways to coach the child how to handle temper or ways to deal with negative emotions. Help your child learn self-control.

5

Distract your child, and persuade him/her to take a break from a provoking activity. Children tend to have a short attention span, so try to take advantage of it by offering a new activity in place of what they should not do.

6

Try to be a good role model to your child, as they learn by watching their parents or theirsurroundings.

46

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

University-Preparatory High School & Boarding School for Girls

Vancouver Island British Columbia

We prepare students for university, for higher education, for life.

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

47

SPECIAL FEATURE

9

objects, toys or food item out of sight and out of reach.

opportunities for tantrums.

10

Hitting or spanking is no way considered ideal; physical punishment can make them violent. That can result in more negative behaviours over the long run. Instead, have enough self-control for both of you.

7

!

11 O N

Kids who are in danger of hurting themselves or others during a tantrum should be taken to a quiet, safe place to calm down and cool off.

Sometimes let children have control over little things. Give them choices, so they can learn to decide with choices in hand instead of giving them no option and forcing them to say a big NO.

8

Rather than setting

for your child, tell him/her to stay in the room until he or she regains control. This is how they learn to think through situations.

12

Make sure your child is getting enough sleep as per the child’s age. With less sleep, kids can become hyper, disagreeable, and have extremes in behaviour.

Lastly, remember temper or tantrums stop on their own as the kids grow up and learn to cooperate, communicate, and cope with frustrations. All this helps you become calmer or happier parents.

Happy Parenting!

48

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

ww w. c a p i t a l t i l e s . c a , UNBEATABLE PRICES AND THE SELECTION LARGE & K C ST SH TO S G N OWR I N N OO U T S M

CTS T I L E

&

S TO N E

LT D

604-598-1610

Homeowners looking for that ‘wow’ factor need to look no further than Capital Tile & Stone. This experienced company and direct importer offers the very best in granite, porcelain and ceramic tiles for any residential or commercial space. With the largest showroom in Surrey, customers will have a wide variety of diverse, quality products to choose from.

Since 1995

Serving the community since 1995, Capital Tile & Stone not only offers competitive rates and large product inventory, but this company also offers services related to their product lines from ceramic and porcelain tiles to granite. With knowledgeable staff, exceptional, quality products and longevity in the industry, we guarantee you will be happy with the service you receive from Capital Tile & Stone.

BIGGEST SHOWROOM

IN SURREY Granite, Limestone, Porcelain, Ceramic Tiles

DIRECT IMPORTER

UP TO

%

OFF ON ALL

CERAMIC & PORCELAIN ON REGULAR PRICES!

84th ave

28 street

84Ave

#11 5 83 81 128 th St , Su r r e y, BC V3 W 4G1

ww w.ca p i t a l t i l e s . c aDARPAN

128 St

604-598-1610

WE ARE HERE

82 Av e

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

49

SPECIAL FEATURE

BY PETRINA D’SOuzA

A COUPLE’S GUIDE TO

INFERTILITY According to Infertility Awareness Association of Canada,

N

ot many are aware that infertility is a common issue among couples in Canada. According to Infertility Awareness Association of Canada

“More and more women and couples are delaying

a few other factors that are connected to this problem need to be addressed – age being one of them. Age

of

beginning as early as 32 years old, we see fertility declines. The rate of decline is seen to increase at age

comfortable life. “Often, infertile couples are educated successful couples whose education, career and

to the egg quantity and quality decreasing with older

childbearing into their later years. Immigrants also

Centre.

Stress, being another factor in women, may affect -

says

50

Factors attached to infertility:

Dr.

Sonya

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

Kashyap,

Medical

DARPAN

TM

Director

tion. Also, weight (high or low body mass indices) can affect fertility. “We see higher rates of ovulation problems, sperm abnormalities, increased miscarriages and birth defects due to weight gain,” says Dr. Warraich.

Smoking too has a strong link with infertility. “There is a longer time to conception in smokers versus non-smokers, women who smoke tend to have lower egg counts and earlier menopause, and male smokers have decreased sperm parameters,” shares Dr. Warraich.

Another important factor is the lack of awareness on the problem. Despite infertility being a common problem among Canadian couples, people do not have enough knowledge about it. One of the reasons for this could be due to the stigma attached to infertility. “Unfortunately, infertility is still considered one of those

“hush-hush” topics. The most common stigma I see with infertility is that if a couple isn’t conceiving, this is something to be ashamed of,” reveals Dr. Warriach, adding, “I feel that infertility is a medical condition just like any other ‘illness’; there should never be any disgrace associated with it.”

“Obtaining early consultation and education is important,” asserts Dr. Kashyap, adding that infertility is not entirely the woman’s fault as it is equally due to male or female problems. Dr. Warriach agrees saying, “About 40 percent of cases of fertility are caused by female factors, another 40 percent is due to male issues, and the remainder of the time it is a combined female and male issue.”

Myths about fertility: Women should go on bed rest following fertility treatment: Unless you are told to do this by your doctor, this is not advised.

The birth control pill will lower your fertility: It is not true. Once you are off the pill for six months, your periods should return to how they were before starting the pill, if this isn’t the case you need to see your doctor.

You can plan on the gender of the baby by having intercourse on certain days: This method of planning simply does not work; it’s a 50/50 chance of having a girl or a boy.

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

51

SPECIAL FEATURE

Dr. Gunwant Warraich, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertilty Specialist, Olive Infertility Centre

“Being referred to a fertility clinic for evaluation is the best initial step. If you know or have been told that you may have

advice would be to not wait the full year and seek

tubes.

»

Abnormal ovulation for some women means there is no egg released regularly in a menstrual cycle and in some cases, there are no eggs released. Abnormal ovulation is caused by hormonal issues such as thyroid and can be affected by being underweight or overweight leading to weight issues such as polycystic ovarian syndrome.

» Previous cancer treatment particularly Dr. Gunwant Warraich.

chemotherapy and radiation can cause permanent damage to eggs, ovaries and the uterus.

»

Causes of infertility Dr. Kashyap points out some of the medical causes of infertility in men and women:

In Women: » Obstruction of fallopian tubes occurs most commonly through infection including sexually-transmitted infections.

Surgery and endometriosis can also contribute to obstruction of the fallopian 52

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

Egg age: As women age, so do eggs.

It becomes harder to become pregnant after age 36-37 and miscarriage rates increase.

In Men: » A varicocele is an abnormal dilation of veins within the scrotum and is detected on physical examination. It is more common on the left but it can occur on both sides. In addition to infertility, a varicocele can cause discomfort.

Generally, it is controversial whether or not a varicocele be corrected if a man

DARPAN

TM

is infertile, has an abnormal semen analysis, and there is little or no infertility issue in the female partner.

»

Obstruction, or a blockage in the reproductive tract. In addition to varicocele, the most common reason is vasectomy, but other conditions such as trauma, infection or congenital abnormalities can also lead to blockage.

»

Medical conditions such as cancer (chemotherapy), diabetes and others affect male fertility in addition to hormone abnormalities and ejaculation problems.

» Disorders in sperm count, motility (swimming ability) and morphology (shape) of sperm are other factors causing infertility in males.

Treatment methods Both doctors advise seeking medical help or consultation if couples experience trouble conceiving. “Seek help immediately if you are over 38-39 years; six months if you are more than 35 years old; and one year if less than age 35.”

Dr. Warraich adds, “Being referred to a fertility clinic for evaluation is the best initial step. If you know or have been told

AWARDS

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

53

SPECIAL FEATURE

Ways to avoid infertility: Regular intercourse; two to three times per week Vitamins/supplements; folic acid 5mg daily, CoQ10 600 mg daily, vitamin D 3000 IU daily Maintain a healthy weight

led them to delaying childbearing into their later years.

Immigrants also delay childbearing until their lives are settled

Nutritious eating Regular exercise Smoking cessation, avoid excessive alcohol

my advice would be to not wait the full year and seek help sooner.”

Dr. Kashyap points out some of the treatments available for infertility: In vitro fertilization (IVF) is the most effective treatment for infertility, although not all cases of infertility require IVF. A thorough consultation and diagnostic work up is needed prior to determining if IVF is the best treatment. IVF treatment involves taking hormone injections for an

average of 10-14 days. During the time of injections, frequent blood tests and ultrasounds are needed to monitor the woman’s response to the injections. At the optimum time, the eggs are retrieved from the ovaries with a needle through the vagina under ultrasound guidance.

Later, sperm is added or injected into the eggs.

The fertilized eggs (embryos) are monitored and one of the embryos of highest quality is transferred at either the 3rd or 5th day of development to the woman’s uterus through the vagina uslater, a blood test will determine if there is pregnancy.

Dr. Sonya Kashyap, Medical Director, Genesis Fertility Centre

54

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

St 200

Willowbrook Shopping Centre

rR

Langley Bypass

e ov Gl

d

Kwantlen Polytechnic University

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

55

www.darpanmagazine.com

Reflecting SouthAsian Lifestyle

Subscribe Today!

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is used in conjunction with IVF to override low sperm counts or sperm abnormality. A single sperm is injected into the mature egg to increase the chances of fertilization. For men with severely low sperm production, another procedure can be used in addition to ICSI where the sperm are retrieved directly from the testes or epididymis.

Early embryonic viability assessment (EEVA) is used to enhance the selection of the highest quality embryos. This involves continuous time lapse monitoring together with a decision logic model.

E: info@darpanmagazine.com | T: 604.537.7277

“We’ve helped thousands of people through the complex and emotional issues of family breakdown. Our determined, compassionate approach brings calm, and proven results.”

Comprehensive chromosomal screening (CCS) or genetic testing of embryos created in vitro can maximize the chance of a success by transferring a chromosomally normal embryo. With this technology, success rates approach 70-80 percent.

-David Halkett, Partner

Egg freezing is used for women who are about to have cancer treatment. Egg freezing is also an option for women who wish to have children in the future but don’t have a partner or need to delay having children due to the demands of their career. The treatment is the same as IVF with the tion) after being retrieved. At a future time when the woman is ready, the eggs are thawed, fertilized and one of the highest quality embryos is selected; the same as for IVF. “Treatment really depends on the cause of infertility and what the couple feel comfortable doing. For some, an intrauterine insemination combined with fertility pills may be the answer. In other cases, IVF may be the only treatment the couple can do,” says Dr. Warriach, however adding that none of the fertility treatments can overcome a woman’s natural age-related decline in fertility.

Infertility clinics also have counsellors to help the couple through the treatment process. Treatment period is usually one to two months. Cost of treatment can range from $500 to $12,000 plus medication costs. “In Canada, consults and workup for infertility are most often covered, though the treatment may not be,” adds Dr. Kashyap.

“Know you are not alone and there are many ways to help,” sums up Dr. Kashyap. “Treatment options doesn’t mean that the couple should delay having children till they are much older,” warns Dr. Warriach in conclusion.

LEAH DONALDSON

SARAH MORSE

DAVID HALKETT

The breakdown of a relationship creates turmoil and confusion for everyone involved.

We objectively review your rights, obligations and goals to develop a legal strategy that is efficient and cost-effective. As skillful advocates, we obtain fair agreements through negotiation, mediation or litigation when necessary.

We provide translation services in Hindi, Urdu, and Punjabi.

Call 604-581-7001 today for your initial consultation.

MCQUARRIE.COM T: 604.581.7001

Learn more and attend one of our seminars. Visit McQuarrie.com for dates.

56

SPECIAL FEATURE

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

work with industry leaders I want an education that’s career focused I want to use new technologies I wan employable I want to meet new people I want to be in control of my future I want to apply for scholarship want a variety of courses I want to be successful I want a university with small class sizes I want a hands education I want to be in-demand I want to be involved in the community I want practical experience I wan make connections I want a university with inspired faculty I want a unique education I want in-demand skills schedules I want to work with industry leaders I want an education want to create my future I want reer focused I want to use new technologies I want to be employable I want to meet new people I want control of my future I want to apply for scholarships I want a variety of courses I want to be successful I university with small class sizes I want a hands-on education I want to be in-demand I want to be involved the community I want practical experience I want to make connections I want a university with inspired fac schedules I I want a unique education I want in-demand skills I want to create my future I want work with industry leaders I want an education that’s career focused I want to use new technologies I wan employable I want to meet new people I want to be in control of my future I want to apply for scholarship want a variety of courses I want to be successful I want a university with small class sizes I want a hands education I want to be in-demand I want to be involved in the community I want practical experience I wan make connections I want a university with inspired faculty I want a unique education I want in-demand skills want to create my future I want schedules I want to work with industry leaders I want an education reer focused I want to use new technologies I want to be employable I want to meet new people I want control of my future I want to apply for scholarships I want a variety of courses I want to be successful I university with small class sizes I want a hands-on education I want to be in-demand I want to be involved the community I want practical experience I want to make connections I want a university with inspired fac schedules I I want a unique education I want in-demand skills I want to create my future I want work with industry leaders I want an education that’s career focused I want to use new technologies I wan employable I want to meet new people I want to be in control of my future I want to apply for scholarship want a variety of courses I want to be successful I want a university with small class sizes I want a hands education I want to be in-demand I want to be involved in the community I want practical experience I wan make connections I want a university with inspired faculty I want a unique education I want in-demand skills want to create my future I want schedules I want to work with industry leaders I want an education reer focused I want to use new technologies I want to be employable I want to meet new people I want TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015 control of my future I want to apply for scholarships I want a varietyDARPAN of courses I want successful I Reflectingto Thebe South-Asian Lifestyle 57

KWANTLEN POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY

kpu.ca

RISING TO THE

ChAllEngEs

By Dr. Shagun Bhanot, PhD

The Centre for Child Development continues to deliver exceptional services in its selfless dedication to help children with special needs reach their potential.

58

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

“H

elping children with special needs reach their potential� is the mission of The Centre for Child Development (TCFCD), which provides specialized pediatric medical rehabilitation to 2,700 children with special needs and their families through 30,000 service sessions per year. However, the collaborative team efforts at TCFCD take their mission beyond just help, and what they offer is a haven where children with severe developmental disabilities and their families find love, trust, care, hope, and above all, courage to dream and to live a normal life.

DARPAN

TM

From its humble beginnings in 1953 as an Association formed by a group of parents whose children had cerebral palsy, TCFCD has grown to provide intensive and diverse services to children with developmental disabilities under the same umbrella that include: communication therapy, family services, medical referrals and assessments, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, supported child care, integrated preschools, psychology services, recreation therapy, and specialty services such as eating skills team, equipment team, casting team, equipment and toy loan program, and technical services.

In fact, TCFCD is one of the few centres

DARPAN FEATURE

www.FraserRiverLodge.com

Upcoming Events

by TCFCD: September 12: The Centre’s 3rd Annual Golf Tournament at Swan-e-set Bay Resort and Country Club, Pitt Meadows, for $150 per player that includes lunch and a shared power cart.

7984 McDonald Rd. Agassiz, B.C. Canada V0M 1A2

RESORT & SPA * WEDDINGS * CORPORATE * ACTIVITIES

Phone: 604-796-1210 Fax: 604-796-1202 FraserRiverLodge

November 7: The 16th Annual Gala of Hope – Fly me to the Moon – on at Newlands Golf and Country Club, Langley. The event begins with a martini reception at 6 pm, followed by a gourmet dinner, live and silent auctions and live entertainment. to have registered psychologists on staff and a Psychology Services department. Dr. Brian Katz, Director of Psychology and Family Services at TCFCD, takes pride in the work of his team and the department which, in his words, “develops strategies to support children and families at home and the community.” The registered psychologists not only support children who have behavioural issues such as anxiety, difficulties with attention, and mood swings but also provide counselling to their families to better manage these behavioural concerns. Dr. Katz also gives credit to his staff for creating a communal bonding among the families who are together in the complex process of raising a child with disability and are overcoming this isolating experience in unison with TCFCD. Dr. Katz also mentions the Multi-Cultural services that TCFCD provides through staff from numerous cultures to facilitate better communication and connection with the children and their families. He mentions Dr. Poonam Tangri, who has contributed to the Psychology Services department not only through her professional expertise, but also through her fluency in Hindi and Punjabi – that has provided better counselling to many South Asian families who are unable to communicate fluently in English.

Dr. Tangri, a registered psychologist, joined TCFCD in 2007 and has since provided consultation and assistance to children and youth.

She also started the South Asian Dads Group at the centre that aims at bringing dads together to help them share their experiences as caregivers to children with behavioural concerns. This group provides a space for fathers to get involved in the physical, emotional and intellectual development of the child. This is a great step in the family-centred care approach.

The Psychology Services department is also unique as it has expanded the training for families

VIYAS

& ASSOCIATE LAWYERS* * LAW CORPORATION

Jagmeet Virk

Sonia Virk

WE CAN HELP YOU WITH: PERSONAL INJURY / ICBC CLAIMS

WILLS & ESTATES

RESIDENTIAL / COMMERCIAL REALESTATE

CONTRACT DISPUTES

CORPORATE / COMMERCIAL LAW

COMMERCIAL LITIGATION

TRUST & SHAREHOLDER'S AGREEMENTS

BUILDER'S LIENS

BUYING / SELLING BUSINESSES PROPERTY SUB-DIVISIONS

COLLECTIONS GENERAL LITIGATION FAMILY LAW

#208-15240-Hwy 10 Surrey, B.C, V3S 5K7

T: 604-590-0607 | F: 604-590-0687

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

59

PHOTO: Courtesy of Centre for Child Development

DARPAN FEATURE

to improve children’s daily living skills to grandparents as well, for in South Asian culture, many times under the joint family system the grandparents are the primary caretakers of the child. This is a clear testimony to TCFCD’s ever evolving strategies and programs to extend comprehensive and best practice services to the children with special

needs and their families in Surrey, Langley, Delta and White Rock.

In this constant endeavour to provide long term and complex care tailored to meet each child’s unique circumstances, TCFCD is trying its best to eliminate waitlists and reach out to as many families as possible. While the centre is able to help 2,400 children every year, recent studies indicate that there are 10 times that many children, or 25,000 children aged 0-19 in the South Fraser Area, who have a disability that could benefit from TCFCD. Population growth in Surrey; limited capacity of hospitals to extend long term care; increased rates of diagnosis of developmental and autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are some

of the factors leading to a greater demand in the specialised and multi-disciplinary services that TCFCD has to offer.

TCFCD and the Provincial Government are working in collaboration to service more children, with the centre planning to significantly increase the number of children it serves. TCFCD needs the support and involvement of the community at large and greatly appreciates the donations from its patrons. It is also trying to raise funds, with the support of the Child Development Foundation, by organizing events almost every month in their efforts to reach out to more families seeking their help.

For more information, visit: www.cdfbc.ca

We Create Happy Smiles!

Services Covered by

BC CARD

in hospital!

Implants Teeth Whitening White Filling Invisalign Root Canal Treatment Crowns Bridges Dentures

New Smile Dental Group

Book Your Appointment Today! New Patients and Emergencies Welcome

DR. D. SANDHU Inc.

604-591-3060

www.NewSmileDental.ca

60

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

SURREY/DELTA

101, 7110 120th St. (Next to

ICICI Bank and Opp. Krispy Kreme Donuts)

NEW WESTMINSTER

1020 Ewen Avenue T: 778-397-2552 (Opposite Fire Hall)

Mortgages

that put

people’s needs first.

As a member-owned co-operative, we believe in listening to your needs. We offer a range of mortgage options, and expert advice that can help you find a mortgage that’s right for you – a mortgage that fits with your goals, with your dreams, with your life.

Interested? Let’s talk.

Nicki Samra Mobile Mortgage Specialist 604.340.2733 nicki_samra@vancity.com or visit me at: vancity.com/nickisamra

Pravin Narotam Mobile Mortgage Specialist 604.349.3824 pravin_narotam@vancity.com or visit me at: vancity.com/pravinnarotam

Contact us today to book an appointment.

Make Good Money (TM) is a trademark of Vancouver City Savings Credit Union. ®HANDS & GLOBE Design is a registered certification mark owned by World Council of Credit Unions, used under license.

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

61

DARPAN EXCLUSIVE

BY Jorge IgnacIo castIllo

BEEBA BOYS Gangs, gunplay, sociopaths in suits, Paul Gross in a ponytail.

Deepa Mehta goes deep in her next film.

W

hile it never really went away, gang violence in surrey reached its peak at the end of the past decade and beginning of this one. For a few months it seemed every week someone would get gunned down in drug-fueled turf wars.

In what it seems like a departure from her gentler, more sentimental output, writer/director Deepa Mehta goes deep into the subject in Beeba Boys.

While never abandoning its cultural roots, the film is reminiscent of Martin scorsese’s most

62

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

crime-soaked filmography, with a drop of Scarface and Hong Kong noir Infernal Affairs.

While inspired by real events – some may recognize known criminals photobombing camera crews – the film is also interested in talking about the immigrant experience from a fresh point of view. Mehta spent almost a year doing research on gang warfare for the script, mostly by reading non-fiction and the Vancouver sun, but also Daaku.

“I met a former gangster”,

DARPAN

TM

DARPAN AutoFEATURE

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

63

The Beeba Boys in question are a group of sharply dressed 20-somethings of Indian descent. The leader, Jeet, is simultaneously a loving family man, a proud Sikh, and the most coldblooded

is a thriving drugs and ammo trafficker, so much so, he wants to take control of the entire area. In order to succeed, he must take down robbie grewal, a veteran gangster who is as tactical as Jeet is hot-headed. the wild card in this conflict is nep, the newest member of the Beeba Boys, who may have an agenda of his own. the game they play is uniquely dangerous.

Punjabi gangsters life expectancy doesn’t go beyond 30.

gangster this side of the

MEET THE BOYS

Fraser River.

PHOTO: Rafy; COURTESY: Mongrel media

For the main roles, Mehta went with

reveals Mehta, “that’s now an immigration lawyer. according to him, this is a phenomenon very culturally specific. this is not the Mafia, the triads or the Hell’s angels. Punjabi gangsters are very rooted in their culture. the boys live at home with their parents and they have strong ties with their mothers. can you imagine a Hell’s angel mother feeding her son? I don’t think so.” the Beeba Boys in question are a group of sharply-dressed 20-somethings of Indian descent. the leader, Jeet, is simultaneously a loving family man, a proud sikh, and the most coldblooded gangster this side of the Fraser river. Jeet

64

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

Bollywood up-and-comer randeep Hooda (previously seen antagonizing salman Khan in Kick) and local credit ali Momen (The L.A. Complex). the supporting cast is filled with recognizable names: Wes anderson’s favourite Waris ahluwalia as Jeet’s right hand, Inception’s Dileep rao as the proverbial cop aiming to take Jeet down and canadian film staple Paul gross (Men with Brooms) as an sleazy associate.

While there have been documentaries dealing with gang violence southeast of Metro Vancouver, Beeba Boys is the first fictionalized feature to tackle the subject. While the boys look straight out of gQ, the violence is not glam-

DARPAN EXCLUSIVE ourized in any form: It’s ugly and messy. In Beeba Boys, every death counts and reverberates through the rest of the film.

“I love the genre”, confesses Mehta. “the godfather, goodFellas, reservoir Dogs, Infernal affairs… they are all in my consciousness. While Beeba Boys is a genre film, it’s also different because it’s Indocanadian. It hasn’t been done before.” the structure of Beeba Boys is somewhat unusual. For the first third of the film, the audience is led to believe Jeet, the classic anti-hero, is the one to follow. From his shadow emerges the more morallyinclined nep, who ultimately becomes the one who takes us all the way to the end.

THE IMMIGRANT EXPERIENCE Deepa Mehta’s last three films are aesthetically quite different from each other. the underrated Heaven on Earth (2008) was shot with in 16mm, a handheld camera and black-and-white. the adaptation of salman rushdie’s Midnight’s Children (2012) was a glossy production filled with warm tones and curated compositions.

Beeba Boys is a more dynamic piece, modern-looking and sharply edited. “every film dictates its own style. Heaven on earth was intimate; it had to look as if you were in somebody’s house. Beeba Boys was shot entirely with steadycam, because I wanted to have a lot of movement, like the boys themselves.” that said, Mehta would be the first to tell you the film is more closely related to the rest of her filmography than it looks like at first sight. “two of the elements all my films have in common are identity and immigration. that’s at the heart of Beeba Boys: It’s so important for them to be “seen” in a white-dominant society: How does a marginalized group gets recognized in this context? When you rob people of their complexity, it becomes very difficult.”

Beyond all the thorny subjects Mehta tackled on Beeba Boys, she acknowledges having the best time making the actionpacked drama: “If I don’t learn anything in the process, it’s boring. With Beeba Boys I learned about guns, I learned about cocaine, about the mothers and children of gangsters, so much. It was fantastic.”

TM

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

Improved Concentration & Analytical Skills

Photographic Memory & Spatial Orientation

Empowering Young Minds!

A ALOH rence of dife am a d I rl . o n o w Emers what a “Wow, my son ATH is ught to IND M t has bro OHA M benefi L A t a r th hild will ality is. e c v ry lie e e b on t eb a rs e th p g in eir someth atter what th om A!” from n ALOH u o Maggie Y Thank t) (Paren

OWN AN ALOHA FRANCHISE!

Write to us at:

604.597.8663 YORK BUSINESS CENTRE

#112-12888 80th Ave Surrey BC

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

65

A survey reveals that 14 percent of the expatriates across the world leave their home country for love.

BY Petrina D’Souza

In Search

Love

Of

W

ould you ever leave the

country to be with the one you love? About

14 percent of the expatriates would, and

did. According

conducted

66

by

to

a

survey

InterNations,

the

The ratings of those individual

largest network for people who live

factors were then used to draw up

abroad, 14 percent of the expatriates

topical sub-indices. The latter were

across the world leave their home

averaged in order to identify the top

country for love.

10 expatriate destinations around

For its annual Expat Insider sur-

the world. “We realized that, with

vey, InterNations questioned 14,000

more than 1.6 million InterNations

expatriates representing 165 nation-

members across the globe, we had

alities and 169 countries of residence

the ideal base for finding out what

about various aspects of expat life:

moves expats around the world:

Quality of Life, Ease of Settling

why they relocate, what life abroad

In, Working Abroad, Family Life,

is like, and how happy they are,”

Personal Finance, Cost of Living as

explains Malte Zeeck, founder and

well as gender, age and nationality.

Co-CEO of InterNations.

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

CREATING HEALTHY HAPPY

smiles READY FOR A bright future

Book your child’s appointment

Pediatric Dental Group Inc.

107 - 6345 120th Street, Delta, BC V4E 2A6

DARPAN

Additional Locations In Vancouver, Richmond & Coquitlam

Pediatrics: 604.599.9038 Orthodontics: 604.599.9036 TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

67 www.PDGdental.com

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

tion, further difficulties can arise.�

Expats in Canada Though it is not one of the top countries to find love, Canada does have its share of expats coming from all parts of the world. Canada ranks 14th in the overall survey index, and expats

Best countries to find love Greece,

For its annual Expat Insider survey, InterNations questioned 14,000 expatriates representing 165 nationalities and 169 countries of residence about various aspects of expat life: Quality of Life, Ease of Settling In, Working Abroad, Family Life, Personal Finance, Cost of Living as well as gender, age and nationality.

68

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

more than any other group.

Nearly two-thirds (63 percent) consider political stability and

Argentina,

42 percent the state of the economy to be extremely important

the top spots for expat romance!

factors in their move. Moreover,

These are the destinations with

almost twice as many expats in

some of the highest percentag-

Canada (47 percent) are contem-

es of expatriates who either met

plating staying permanently in

their partner in their country of

their new home.

comes

or

from

whose that

partner

country. At

66 percent, the share of people who are in a relationship with

Friendly locals Expats

either

strongly

or

a local resident is the highest

completely agree (71 percent)

in the Philippines, followed by

that Canadian locals are friend-

Argentina

Chile

ly to their foreign neighbours.

(54 percent), Mexico (54 percent),

This friendliness is highlighted

and Greece (53 percent).

by the fact that expats in Canada

(55

percent),

Zeeck adds that one of the

have more diverse social circles;

biggest consequences of moving

62 percent say that their social

for love is that the one moving

circles are fairly mixed between

has to leave everything behind,

expats and local friends.

often without the security of a new job abroad. “Depending on the exact reason for the reloca-

TM

term factors into consideration

Mexico, and the Philippines are

residence

Chile,

coming to this country take long-

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

69

percent), followed by the classic expat who was sent abroad by their employer (13 percent).

Another

7

percent

relocated

because they were recruited by a local company.”

About 80 percent of Indian expats state they speak three or more languages, overshadowing the global average of 61 percent. Also, they are more likely to relocate to a country where they do not speak the host language. While two-thirds of Indian respondents (66 percent) say they speak little to none of the language of their adopted country, on a global scale, only two-fifths of expats (42 percent) say the same.

The heart follows Indian expats move abroad for

Good place to bring up children

Good quality of life In

Canada,

52

percent

many

but

one

is love. Over four in five Indian participants

are

engaged

in

of

relationships with people from

work-life

their own country (86 percent).

reasons

balance is very satisfying in con-

This means that Indian expats

why Canada ranks so highly

trast to the average 45 percent.

are more inclined to move with a

in the survey is its exemplary

Furthermore,

that

partner. While slightly more than

education system. Canada con-

the country offers a good quality

one in 10 global respondents

sistently achieves a high ranking

of life, resulting in Canada placing

relocated for love or to live in

in all aspects of education and

20th

their

childcare, coming in on eighth

Quality of Life Index. “About 26

(11 percent), only 3 percent of

position for availability and 10th

percent of the respondents moved

Indians say the same.

in terms of cost.

to Canada for a better quality of

One

of

the

primary

Furthermore,

expats

respondents

in

in

the

feel

their

expats

report

survey’s

General

partner’s

home

country

life,” reveals Zeeck.

Canada have a fairly high opinion of the quality of education which

Indians expats

their children receive. More than two-thirds (68 percent) agree that the quality of education is good

Work life Like the majority of survey participants, Indian expats are highly educated. More than three

The most popular reason for

in five (63 percent) work for a

unequivocally

Indian expats to leave home is

company in an employee or man-

indicate that Canada is a great

because they either found work in

agement position, whereas the

place to rear children and for the

their host country or because they

global scale sees 47 percent in

family as a whole. The country

were sent there by their employer.

a similar role. About 41 percent

or excellent in Canada.

Participants

ranks eighth in the overall Family

Zeeck further states that many

identify

themselves

Life Index, with four in five expats

expats move abroad for a better job

middle

management

(81 percent) believing their chil-

opportunity. “In our survey, moving

management

dren are safe and healthy.

abroad for a job that an expat found

to the worldwide response of

there on their own actually got the

34 percent.

biggest share of respondents (16

70

reasons,

thing very few go in search of

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

in

as or

either top

comparison

We Specialize in ICBC Claims!

WWW.BCBACK.CA

OFFERING CHIROPRACTIC, PHYSIOTHERAPY & SPINAL CARE “BC Back’s main goal is to offer patients a team approach to their healthcare and treatment plan. By offering more variety of services, we’re able to help more people, as everyone has different needs and different goals. It’s nice that when you need to see multiple providers, they are all under the same roof and sharing one file,”

(L-R) , DR. TRAVIS MEIER, AJEET (AJ) BAINS, JESSICA KRENUS

778-574-4999

UNIT 102 - 15150, NO. 10 HWY SURREY, BC V3S 1B8

DARPAN/ INFO@BCBACK.CA 71 WWW.BCBACK.CA TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

Safeena Husain’s organization works with a team of volunteers, majority of them males, who convince families to send their daughter back to school.

BOYS LEADING GIRLS

BACK TO

sChOOl

“We have close to 2.4 million non-governmental organizations in India. There is an ngo for every 400 people, but we don’t have any high impact models of girl education.”

BY GARIMA GOSWAMI children he had. When he responded, “Safeena

T

is my only child,” they all started crying and sayhe debate on preceding female education

New

Delhi,

Husain

spent

three

years

ing, “you’re still young, get married again and

as a fundamental right beyond theory

after high school in a Krishna Ashram in

maybe you’ll have a son.” Husain’s father put his

and ink has long been dominating the

Rishikesh, reading scriptures and then went

arm around Safeena and said, “This is my son,

multicultural landscape of India. Despite

on to pursue higher studies in the London

this is my daughter, this is my everything.”

daily soaps hoarding this theme into their

School of Economics. After a brief stint in

At that moment, Husain said to herself that she

plots, celebrities propagating heavily on the

the Silicon Valley, Husain fulfilled her long-

is fortunate to walk away with her supportive

subject,

policies

ing to work in the development sector. She

father, but what about those girls who grow up

to promote the appearance of females in

was setting up clinics in Ecuador, Mexico

in this village and are forced to live with the

schools,

and South Africa before she decided to head

mentality that they are a burden. “The big equa-

back to her homeland.

tion is, my goat is an asset and my daughter is a

and the

ministers fact

devising

remains

that

females

are extensively disposed of this crucial foundation. It is this crucial foundation that

A defining moment came up when she was

liability,” Husain explains.

Educate

setting up a clinic close to the same Ashram

Husain’s agenda is clear - “The lack is not access

Girls envisages to grow upon with a holistic

in Rishikesh. While her father was helping

to education, the problem is the mindset.” A

approach.

her out in this project, a group of rural women

mindset repressing the rights of females - edu-

asked him about his family and how many

cation being the prominent one - is not confined

Safeena

Husain’s

organization

Born and brought up in India’s capital,

72

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

DARPAN sAlUTEs to the rural and tribal belts of India; the urban and educated Indian has also left footprints of

Home Sweet Home

this prejudice. These were the footprints that Husain had been mapping since childhood and which ultimately led to the creation of Educate Girls, an organization that addresses the issue of gender inequality while enforcing constructive steps towards balanced development.

The project starts by a “team of champions” called Team Balika visiting families in a village and conducting surveys pertaining to enrollment of girls in schools. These volunteers falling within the age group of 18-24 mobilize community participation in eradicating gender disparity by intervening themselves and at times involving influential

community

leaders

such

as

the

Sarpanch (village leader) and religious scholars.

Currently,

Team

Balika

comprises

4,500

volunteers and interestingly 60 percent of its members are males voicing the rights of females.

“We need young boys to get up and say that all girls in my village have to go to school. We had started with the idea that we’ll only have girls but we realized that so many boys were actually joining up and it is an unpaid position.” In the school vicinity, these girls teach three times a week and work on developing school infrastructure such as

AmrikCheema.com 604-369-7000

toilets, drinking water, and equipment.

In figures, the success of Educate Girls is tremendous and is evident from the several awards it has been honoured with since its inception in 2007 - over 80,000+ out-of school girls have been enrolled in schools; presence in over 8,500 schools across 4,500 villages; increase of over 35 to 60 percent in learning outcomes across Hindi, English and Math; and, over 2.8 million total ben-

WEDDING INVITATIONS LETTER HEADS BUSINESS CARDS ENVELOPES INVOICES

FLYERS FOLDING STITCHING DIE CUTTING RUBBER

STAMPS RECIEPT & CHEQUES BROCHURES LOG SHEETS SIGNS

eficiaries of the organization’s programs.

But the biggest achievement for the organization, Husain states, was in Rajasthan’s district of Pali, which consists of 1067 villages. Gender gap stood at 19 percent when Educate Girls first started their operations in the district, and today that gap stands between 5-7 percent.

WWW.KOHALYPRINTING.COM

“We have close to 2.4 million non-governmental organizations in India. There is an ngo for every 400 people, but we don’t have any high impact models of girl education.”

For Husain, gender has always been a part of

PHOTO: Safeena HuSSain

her own journey. Whether that be her own experience with abuse and violence by her stepfather,

or

her

encounter

with

biased

ideologies while setting up her own clinic, Husain has been cognizant of the gender gap issue. In good spirits however, Husain ends by saying, “I’m trying to clone my father for other girl child [children].” And by looking at the

HARWINDER GREWAL

604.594.2324

Email: info@kohalyprinting.com Suite 210-12837 76 Ave, Surrey, BC

obvious success of Educate Girls, we know she already has.

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

73

SKY IS THE LIMIT

WWW.SQUARENINE.CA

MANISH

SHARMA 74

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

BUSINESS PROFIlE

to create extraordinary beauty and excellence. square nine is also involved with the health and safety of its homes. all their homes are backed by five and ten year warranties with the national Home Warranty Program. “Health and safety are always paramount to our success and our safety advisors

S

uccessful,

and

ensure that our management, both

passionate are just some

in house and on site, is fully apprised

words that describe Manish

of the ongoing changes to legislation

sharma,

the

driven

owner/Director

of

and processes,” sharma says.

square nine Developments Inc.

He and his team are constantly

emigrating from India in 2002, he

started

working

within

the

researching

new

construction

products,

methodologies

and

construction industry in 2004. after

design concepts to provide better

just four short years he ventured

quality custom homes. “We work with

into his own construction company

the best contractors and constantly

in 2008, square nine Developments

do research to stay on top of the

Inc. whose dedication towards quality

latest features and products. We also

and craftsmanship is making its

strongly believe in listening to the

presence

feedback our clients give us,” shares

known

in

multi-family

housing market. From building wood

sharma.

frame town houses and now into

one of the projects the company is

developing concrete high rise, square

working on is ‘Union’ – an 18 storey

nine is setting up the mark with its

high rise, based in West coquitlam,

core values. “square nine was formed with the aim of building quality homes

us to provide the same top quality

at an affordable price. We aim in

features

providing ‘quality’ as it should be

compromising

without

affordable prices. this shows how

compromise,”

Burnaby-based customer

sharma

says

who

service-oriented

concepts on

without

quality

at

is

dedicated, excited and proud we are

and

of each and every project we have been a part of.”

passionate about good quality work.

sharma’s passion for his work

sharma’s company started off by building single family homes,

and

quickly realizing the lack of custom

construction to community service

craftsmanship available. “With the

and

lack of developers willing to provide

recently

top quality at affordable prices, we

sponsoring

then branched out to multi-family

tournament. “community plays a

units

and

customers home

is

aimed that

a

to

prove

to

custom-crafted

affordable,”

emphasizes

sharma.

people

has

contribution. had

gone the

the the

beyond company

pleasure realtor

of golf

big part in our company. We believe in

close

proximity

to

the

new

evergreen line and lougheed Mall. the high rise comprises of 102

that with a strong community, we build

area.

a promising future for our children

talking

about

the

projects,

and the generations to come,” he

residences

sharma believes that each project

way when it comes to craftsmanship.

comprised of one, two and three

has been uniquely distinctive and

Beyond square nine, he also

We believe that no one should have

bedroom homes. “It truly is a union

special in its own way. each project

owns Burger King outlets, a White

to compromise on quality when

where residential community meets

has been a new learning experience

spot restaurant and a soon-to-start

walking through the front door of their

urban life, minutes from Downtown

of how far the company can go as

new chain by the name of oakroom

home. Your home should feel like

Vancouver,

new

a team. “From our single family

grill, which is opening in Prince

‘your home’ and not just a house,”

Westminster. Union is what you

homes we learned that stretching the

george and has a total of over 200

asserts sharma, pointing out that

want to be a part of,” adds sharma,

boundaries of design and introducing

employees. “We are

right materials, expert craftsmanship,

excitedly. In addition to the Union,

new concepts was eagerly welcome.

own name brand of restaurant by

and attention to detail come together

there are more multi-family projects

our multi-family homes challenged

winter,” he adds summing up.

“We are involved every step of the

intelligently-designed

coming up in the Burnaby-edmonds

Burnaby,

and

says.

DARPAN

starting with

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

75

PHOTO: JC imageS

any

and

Boundary

N

Boundary

E 1st Ave.

Boundary

Lougheed Hwy.

76

N

E 1st Ave. N

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM Lougheed Hwy.

Pre-Owned

BUSINESS PROFIlE

SMILETOWN BURNABY #430 - 4460 Beresford Street, Burnaby, BC, VH5 0B8 PHONE - 604-504-4258

SMILETOWN N. DELTA/SURREY #111 - 7511 - 120th Street, Delta, BC, V4C 0C1 PHONE - 604-607-1631

SMILETOWN DENTISTRY

SMILETOWN LANGLEY #110 - 20780 Willoughby Town

A DENTAL HOME FOR KIDS AND TEENS

PHONE - 604-857-5145

miletown Dentistry is like Playland for kids.

feedback from the south asian community has

right

been tremendous.”

north

from

their

Delta/surrey

calming

smiletown Dentistry’s main focus is to treat

minimize any barriers which may limit access to care.

children with the utmost care and compassion

this includes having appointments readily available,

children’s Jungle theatre, to the underwater-

in a professional environment, while immersing

short or no waitlists, and affordable care.

themed langley oasis, this lower mainland-based

them with an experience that they would not

the clinic follows the Bc Dental Fee guide

dental group, has something for every child

normally feel at a dental office. “We both thrive

(for minimum suggested rates) and accepts most

and parent.

on the model of taking care of children as if they

insurances. “as a courtesy to our patients, we are

were our own. We want all children and parents

happy to verify your insurance coverage to reduce

for younger patients. We wanted to build offices

to

your out of pocket expense,” adds Dr. Kanani.

which would help to alleviate the anxiety and

memorable patient experience is our number one

stress that children and their parents may have

priority,” says Dr. chadha passionately.

Burnaby

to

the

location

captivating

ensuring maximum care and treatment, smiletown’s offices in Burnaby, north Delta, and langley aim to

the

jungle-themed

office

beach-themed with

“Dental visits can often be somewhat stressful

when

coming

to

see

the

dentist,”

explains

Dr. Karim Kanani (B.sc., M.sc., M.Bs., DMD),

be

treated

with

respect

and

having

a

Dr. Kanani and Dr. chadha are very passionate about treating children and want them to have a fun and

Both doctors advise parents to take their child to the dentist at an early age.

enjoyable experience beyond their expectations. “children should not be scared to visit the dentist –

who co-founded the new, child-friendly dental

“children need to get comfortable in the dental

that is what we are striving for at smiletown. our goal

clinics with Dr. Diya chadha (BDs, DMD, FrcD(c)).

environment as early as possible. this is also a

is to have children wanting to come back, over and

Both Dr. Kanani and Dr. chadha completed

great opportunity for parents to get valuable

over again to see us. good oral hygiene habits are

additional training in treating children and have

information from the dentist on how to take care

established early. We are here for the south asian

each obtained a certificate in Pediatric Dentistry.

of their child’s oral health and to prevent early

community and are looking forward to contributing

the doctors have created a one of a kind, very

childhood decay; the most common chronic

to the community in as many ways as we can,” they

fun and unique environment to make patients

disease in children today. Parents know their

say in conclusion.

as well as their parents comfortable – filled with

children best and if you think something looks

smiletown Dentistry has a fully trained multilingual

televisions, gaming stations, and fun characters

unusual, we recommend coming in to see us,”

staff that can communicate in english, spanish,

throughout the office. “We have a relaxing parent

suggests Dr. chadha, further encouraging parents

Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu. consultations for children are

lounge near the treatment rooms for parents to

to bring in their infants for a complimentary

complimentary. Please contact the office location most

be able to rest yet be able to still see their

educational visit to discuss nursing habits and

convenient for you to set up an appointment.

children get treatment,” adds Dr. Kanani. “the

oral cleansing techniques.

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

77

PHOTO: amriT PHOTOgraPHy

S

Centre Drive, Langley, BC, V2Y 0M7

Ble nd ing Mo d e rn

Ind ian

Wit h

the pro fes sio n ing a che f wa s a cas e of For Viv ek Sin gh, bec om fes sio n. “I sim ply fell n him cho osi ng the pro cho osi ng him rat her tha ula rly k now n as one of alo ng,” say s Sin gh, pop int o it and lov ed it all . an che fs of his gen era tion the mo st ar ticu late I ndi on Cin nam on Clu b, Cin nam Ch ef and CE O of T he Sin gh is the Exe cut ive its g nin ope rst i f Sin ce Soh o in Lon don , U K. Kit che n and Cin nam on T he Cin nam on Clu b has y, rar Lib r ste min We st doo rs in 2001 at the old k ing . ect atio ns of I ndi an coo bee n red ef ini ng the exp s f rom me mo r ies , f rom a nu mb er of sou rce His coo k ing is ins pi red ilab ilit y of ing red ien ts. the sea son s and the ava t rav el, and jou r ney s to h bou nda r ies and es f rom a des i re to pus “M y ins pi rat ion als o com atio n of all thi s tha t I sup pos e it’s a com bin gh. cha llen ge per cep tion s. st and s stil l,” add s Sin ng pro ces s tha t nev er ma kes it an eve r evo lvi he Cin nam on Clu b ma ny boo ks, nam ely T Sin gh has als o aut hor ed , Cu rr y: Cla ssic and Clu b Sea foo d Co okb ook .

Co okb ook , Cin nam on ook and Spi ce at Ho me on Kit che n T he Co okb Co nte mp ora r y, Cin nam

DARPAN R E C IPE S

Honey & Lime

This is a ver y fresh and light take on the ever- popular cheesecake, and it works particularly well with cherries when they are in season . When cherries aren’t available, I like to serve it with the Red Fruit Compote .

Cheesecake with Marinated Cherries

Ingredients: For Cheesecake: 120 g thick strained greek yoghurt (250g yoghurt that is left to drain overnight)

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

200 g cherries, some stoned and some left whole with the stalks still on 40 g icing sugar Juice of one lime

50 g caster sugar

2 mint leaves, finely chopped

Juice of one lime

4 Brandy snap tuiles, to serve

Divide the mixture between four ring moulds lined with greaseproof paper, then cover with clingfilm and chill for at least 20 minutes, until set.

For the marinated cherries, mix all

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

For marinated cherries:

60 g clear honey

Mix together the greek yoghurt and mascarpone cheese. Beat in the honey, sugar, lime juice and zest, then quickly and lightly fold in the whipped cream.

78

90 g double cream, whipped

110 g mascarpone cheese

Preparation:

By Chef Vivek Singh

Finely grated zest of ½ lime

the ingredients together and refrigerate until required. When ready to serve, unmould the cheesecakes by lifting out the ring moulds and peeling away the greaseproof paper, and place on four plates. then surround with the cherries and serve with a Brandy snap tuile on each plate (you can sit the cheesecakes inside the tuiles if you wish).

w w w. R e a l C a n a d i a n S u p e r s t o r e . c a

Big on Fresh, low on Price.

TM

Contact For Assistance:

REMO MASTROPIERI STORE MANAGER

From luxury cosmetics and household items to delicious foods and beverages, Real Canadian Superstore® has it all to make your special occasion an enjoyable and entertaining one. Visit the store now to find a wide range of South Asian speciality products at the best affordable price!

Store Hours: Monday to Sunday 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.

350 S.E. MARINE DRIVE, VANCOUVER

FAX: 604.622.3744

DARPAN T: 604.322.3727 TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

79

DARPAN RECIPES

Char-grilled w

R ump of Lamb with Garlic and Spinach Sauce

Ingredients: The Lamb: 4 x 175–200 g rumps of lamb, fat trimmed off 2 tbsp vegetable oil

½ tsp red chilli powder Juice of ½ lemon

1 kg young spinach leaves

For the second marinade:

4 tbsp ghee or vegetable oil

25 g greek yoghurt ½ tsp salt

1 tbsp ginger and garlic paste

½ tsp red chilli powder

1 tbsp vegetable oil

½ tsp garam masala

½ tsp salt

Heat the oil in a heavybased ovenproof frying pan on a medium-high heat,

80

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1 large onion, finely chopped 2.5 cm piece of ginger, chopped 1½ tsp ground coriander 1 tsp salt and pinch of sugar 1½ tsp gram (chickpea) flour 75 ml single cream and 25 g butter

Preparation:

to begin the sauce, bring a pan of salted water to the boil. add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted, then immediately drain and cool in a bowl of iced water. Drain the spinach a second time, squeezing to remove all the water and blitz in a blender or food processor to make a very smooth green paste. set aside.

1 tsp cumin seeds

4 green chillies, chopped

a pinch of sugar

Mix together all the ingredients for the first marinade, then rub them over the lamb rumps and leave to marinate for 20–30 minutes.

Meanwhile, mix together all the ingredients for the second marinade and set aside.

For the sauce:

1 tsp dried fenugreek leaves, crushed add the lamb and sear for three minutes on each side. remove the pan from the heat and set aside in a warm place for five minutes. now apply the second marinade. transfer to an oven preheated to 180°c/ gas Mark 4 and roast for six minutes. set aside the meat to rest for six minutes while you finish the sauce.

Heat the ghee or oil to smoking point and add the cumin seeds. When they crackle, add the garlic and cook until golden. add the onion, reduce the heat and continue cooking for four to six minutes until it is translucent. add the chillies and ginger, stir in the ground coriander and salt and sauté for 2

DARPAN

TM

¼ nutmeg minutes. gradually add the gram flour, stirring over a low heat for one to two minutes to prevent lumps from forming.

When it has turned golden, add the spinach paste and mix thoroughly. now stir in the butter, then fold in the cream slowly, otherwise the mixture may separate. add the sugar and adjust the seasoning, if necessary. Finish by sprinkling in the fenugreek leaves and grating in the nutmeg.

Do not cook for too long after adding the spinach paste as it will discolour and render the dish unappetising in appearance.

When the meat has rested, slice thinly and serve with the sauce, pulao rice and some stir-fried vegetables, if you like.

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

81

Model- Shania Bhatti, Make up /Hair- Payal Beauty Heights, Photography- Amrit Photography, Decor- Raymons Decor

MADE IN INDIA 604-501-2577

82

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

MADE IN INDIA 604-501-2577

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

83

MADE IN INDIA 604-501-2577

84

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

Model- Shania Bhatti, Make up /Hair- Payal Beauty Heights, Photography- Amrit Photography, Decor- Raymons Decor

MADE IN INDIA 604-501-2577

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

85

Photography: Janda photography | Model: Ashika | Makeup/hair: Girlfriends Studio 7

86

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

www.armaandbg.com

Photography: Snapshots obsessions | Model: Ericka | Makeup/hair: Blueruby Artistry

Davi Bains Gill

T: 604-507-9611

Suite 189-8138 128 St, Surrey, BC Armaan DBG

armaandbg

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

87

DARPAN

Beauty

Top Fixes

Skin

For Summer Damaged

N

BY CATHERINE TSE

Now that summer’s drawing to an end, days are shorter, UV rays are weaker and tans are fading. It’s also the time when people start to notice uneven skin tone caused by summer fun. But dehydration, dullness and hyper-pigmentation are no fun at all. As your summer glow turns ashy and patchy, follow these recommendations to bring your face and body back to life.

88

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

Professional Medi-spa Treatments

If your skin’s in particularly rough shape or if you simply want a professional advantage to quickly get your skin in better condition, look for a qualified esthetician that can offer advanced services.

Joy Stewart, from Touch of Joy in Vancouver suggests either Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) or Nonablative Skin Resurfacing (aka Sublative) to quickly target hyperpigmentation. These treatments will give you clearer and more even-toned skin, just in time for

DARPAN

TM

the holidays!

IPL uses intense pulses of light directed at the epidermis, targeting blood vessels and collagen. This results in reduced wrinkles and redness on the surface as well as the “lifting” of dark spots. Expect a downtime of about one to three weeks – the more brown spots, the longer the downtime.

The first five days will be the most dramatic as hyper-pigmentation will become much darker before fading.

Non-ablative is similar in that it treats wrinkles, texture and hyper-pigmentation, but it penetrates deeper into the dermis. This technique triggers your body’s own healing process, prompting it to produce healthy tissue and collagen. The downtime here is less than for IPL, at one to two weeks, so it’s a great choice for those with less time. Stewart is particularly enthusiastic about this treatment and gets it done herself every year.

www.darpanmagazine.com

Reflecting SouthAsian Lifestyle

Subscribe Today!

E: info@darpanmagazine.com | T: 604.537.7277

Laser Centre

PHOTO: COurTeSy Of BranDS feaTureD

Over the Counter Treatments There are fantastic products you can use at home to help improve post-summer skin. ZO Medical is a professional-grade, corrective line designed by Dr. Zein Obagi. Brightenex ($96) is a non-hydroquinone brightener and correcting cream that contains 1.0 percent retinol to brighten skin tone by targeting the three stages of skin discolouration. This is a great one to start off with if you’re just beginning your de-pigmentation regimen.

Brightalive ($150) is a non-retinol, non-hydroquinone brightener that targets hyper-pigmentation and sun damage while also preventing new sun spots from developing. It’s about as powerful as a topical can be without the concerns of skin bleaching.

Because these two products are so potent, cautions Joy, they really should be used under the supervision of a trained esthetician. The entire ZO Medical line is available at Touch of Joy. Other effective options are Vichy’s ProEVEN dark spot correctors, with specific formulations for day ($48.50) and night ($49.50). These serums work on the skin’s surface by gently exfoliating and boosting the cell renewal process and regulating the production of melanin. These are best used together as they complement one another to provide 24 hours of treatment. Available across Canada at drug stores.

To help promote the breakdown of pigmentation as well as to prevent more from forming, a good Vitamin C serum is essential. SkinCeuticals’ C E Ferulic ($165) protects against photo-aging by neutralising free radicals that can accelerate photodamage. Allow the serum to sink in completely (one to three minutes) before adding your moisturiser.

Available at select dermatologists, medical spas and online at SkinCeuticals.com/Canada

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 * 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

* Make up For All Occassions*

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

www.allurelasercentre.com

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

89

DARPAN BEAUTY Hair Salon

For skin that’s parched after a season of too much alcohol, sun, salt water and other summer indulgences, pamper your face with Avène's Soothing Moisture Mask ($35). Not only is this a fabulous all-round hydration treatment, but it’s especially formulated to treat sunburned and sun-ravaged skin.

As an extra treat, use it once a week as an overnight treatment. Available across Canada at drugstores.

We are specialized in:

Two locations to serve you:

www.moneysbeauty.com

Surrey Location

Burnaby Location

102-8270 144th Street 7563 6th Street Surrey, BC V3W 5T5 Burnaby, BC V3N 3M4 Tel: 604.507.6827 Tel: 604.525.9298

Sun Protection is a Must!

Rajkanwal K. Bassi

Kelly Macauley

Meena Sadioura

Brent Ellingson

Remember, the end of summer doesn’t mean the end of UV rays. Using sun protection is a must if you’re starting any treatment that targets hyper-pigmentation. UV rays are present even on cloudy days and these treatments leave your skin susceptible to photo damage, so always protect your skin with a minimum of sun protection factor 30.

For the body, Clarins’ new Sun Care Oil Spray SPF 30 ($35) is a fantastic, elegant, fast-absorbing dry oil for the body and hair. Smells divine. Available at Clarins counters. For a little more protection, Bioderma’s lightweight Photoderm Sun Protection Milk SPF 60 ($27.95) provides amazing sun protection without any stickiness or oiliness – a sunscreen you’ll actually enjoy putting on. Available at Shoppers Drug Mart.

Vichy’s Idéal Ultra-light Lotion for Face SPF 30 ($25) is a new-generation sunscreen with light, watery texture that feels great on the face. Available across Canada in drugstores. And if you’re exercising outdoors, Shiseido’s WetForce Ultra Sun Protection SPF 50+ ($48), is an excellent waterproof and sweat-proof lotion that dries to a beautiful, velvety finish. Available at Shiseido counters.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Catherine Tse

90

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

Catherine is a Vancouver lifestyle writer with a love for travel, food, animals and all things beautiful. She's written for the National Post, Georgia Straight, Real Weddings and BC Living.

THE MOST LUXURIOUS PROJECT IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD PRESTIGIOUS NEIGHBOURHOOD | UNPARALLELED ACCESS

W1 is the largest residential project at the red hot “Cambie & Marine Hub”, Conveniently located across from a new commercial complex, complete with supermarket, café, shops, movie theatre, fitness club and Class A offices. Poised to become a trendy focal point in prestigious Vancouver west, W1 provides effortless access to Downtown, the Airport and Richmond in minutes via the Marine Drive Skytrain Station.

Elegant and stylish inside and out, W1 is a reflection of the sought–after west side. With its hotel-inspired grand lobby, regal porte–cochère, beautifully landscaped garden terraces with lush green and water features and an array of luxurious amenities, W1 truly is the best of the best.

PRESENTATION CENTRE 88 Pacific Boulevard, Vancouver (On the False Creek Seawall) Open 10am-5pm daily 8511 Capstan Way, Richmond (On No. 3 Rd) Open 12pm-6pm daily

W 1 VA N C O U V E R . C O M | R E G I S T E R N O W | 6 0 4 . 8 9 9 . 8 8 0 0

All illustrations reflect the artist’s interpretation of the project and do not take into account neighbouring buildings, physical structures, streets, and landscape.

These matters will be governed by the terms of the applicable Disclosure Statement in each case. Prices and availability are subject to change without notice. provisions. Please check with the Developers’ representatives for further details. This is not offerings for sale. Any such offer may only be made with the applicable Disclosure Statement and Agreement of Purchase and Sale. Concord W1 Limited Partnership. E. & O.E.

Building Canada’s Largest Communities

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

91

Leaves All Around

BY JOSEPH A. FEDERICO

her products tend to be neutral in colour. Perfect.

T

his fall, trends are moving back toward the elegant.

Plaids will be showing up like piles of foliage on people’s lawns, and solid-coloured jewellery will be on your lobes, glowing like a soonto-be jack-o-lantern on a spooky night. Fall is grand, and you will be too.

Let us start with a little accessory I like to call the handbag. Your dresses, blouses, and skirts will be funky-coloured plaid pieces, so the purse has to be solid, OK? Canadian designers such as Hoi Bo, Ela, C Comme Ca, and Jessica Jensen are the ones to be on the lookout for.

Jessica Jensen, especially;

Solid-coloured earring studs are all the craze. No word a lie, the days of long, dripping ear bling are over. Solid gold, turquoise, and hues of orange are the colours of the season, ladies. And one hole at a time, please. I believe it was but a few months ago we discussed that having multiple earrings in one ear was acceptable.

For the fall, we are bringing it back to basics.

Try purchasing some studs from Ippolita. If you cannot afford Ippolita, you know, because they can get a bit pricey, check out what Montreal-based jewellery designer, Charlotte Hosten, is up to this season. One pair that stands out in particular, is the Patty Vintage Earrings by Hosten. Another pair to take into consideration is the Fela Earrings.

All of Hosten’s jewellery is handmade with love. With that being said, you have to pair her pairs with something cozy yet classy. How about a retro style dress from Prada?

Multicoloured plaid skirts and

TORTOISE SHELL SUNGLASSES

92

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

SOLID-COLOURED EARRING STUDS

Leaves will be falling, wind will be blowing. But what will you be wearing?

DARPAN STYLE

BERNARD DELETTREZ SNAKE BRACELET longer dresses are the perfect “accessory” to all the jewellery you will be sporting.

A similar look can be attained with the Plaid Smock Dress by Forever 21 Canada. This style is reminiscent of the 1960s meets 1990s baby doll dresses. Do you remember those, girls? They are back with a vengeance, and better than ever.

Brighter solutions for your business You need the right solutions to meet your goals and protect the business you’ve worked so hard to build. Together we can find the right solution for you and your business.

Let’s talk about Money for Life.

Rajni Sharma MA MPC Rajni Sharma Financial Services Ltd. Tel: 604-274-7677 rajni.sharma@sunlife.com www.sunlife.ca/rajni.sharma 12686 54 Avenue, Surrey BC V3X 3C2 Mutual funds offered by Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is a member of the Sun Life Financial group of companies. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2013.

Life’s brighter under the sun

To dress up semi drab-coloured plaid (hey, it’s what’s in, so sport it!), accessorize the neckline and wrists. This fall, snake and other slithery animals take center stage. Bernard Delettrez puts out fantastically realistic snake jewellery, so check out his Snake Bracelet and Ring combo. Fabulous.

Let us move onto your eyes. Makeup should match the colours in the plaid that don your dresses and skirts. This is not the 1980s, so no bright colours, OK? If you are not going to wear eye makeup, dress your face up with tortoise shell sunglasses. Ralph Lauren makes solid sunglasses at reasonable prices. You will see big sunglasses this fall. Do not think glitzy as much as showy. Think big.

If you are thinking that plaid and colour is not for you, then look no further than designs from Sid Neigum. Think of his style as cubism, but for the world of fashion. His designs are dark, sensuous, and slightly frightening. Long, angular skirts and flowy tops will suffice. Pair his dresses up with a dark-coloured boot or heel, and you will have a night out on the town to remember.

Or, let us say that you are feeling adventurous and flirty. Mix and match! Take a top from Neigum’s collection, let’s say, and match it with a solid brown skirt from Malorie Urbanovitch’s collection. Her skirts are also angular, but are a bit more feminine than what we have been gearing towards thus far. Plus, the brown is a great accent colour for your makeup, sunglasses, and jewellery this fall.

Other hip designers to keep an eye out for this fall are Mikhael Kale, Hayley Elsaesser, and Narces.

As always, experiment with your fashion choices, and let your mood guide you. Take the power of Mother Earth’s season, and dress it up a bit; make it your own. Again, darker plaids, angular skirts, and solid earrings are the key to a fall wardrobe.

How will you make fall 2015 the best, most fashionable season yet? Think, plan, execute, and work it.

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.

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

93

DARPAN hEAlTh For nearly one third of the population who may have experienced sleepwalking in their lives, an uneventful night’s sleep is not always the norm.

DID YOU KNOW? Sleepwalking most often affects children.

Sleepwalking is genetic. A child is 45 percent more likely to sleepwalk if they have a parent who did and 60 percent if both parents did.

Sleepwalking occurs more frequently in identical twins.

BY ASHLEY STEPHENS

A NIGHT -Time

STROLL A

s it comes time to tuck ourselves in, turn out the light and drift off to sleep, most of us expect to wake in the morning having slept soundly in our beds throughout the night. For nearly one third of the population who may have experienced sleepwalking in their lives, an uneventful night’s sleep is not always the norm.

Sleepwalking is a behavioural sleep disorder most often affecting children. As its name suggests, sleepwalking involves walking around or performing other actions while sleeping.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, up to 15 percent of the general population experiences episodes of sleepwalking and it is most likely to occur in children between three and eight. Somnambulism, as it’s formally known, begins during the third stage of a sleep cycle, one of the nonrapid eye movement stages more commonly known as deep sleep, where one typically remains throughout the event.

94

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

A sleepwalker’s eyes are typically open but will have a glassy look.

Sleepwalking can last anywhere from 30 seconds up to 30 minutes at a time.

Children tend to sleepwalk within an hour or two of falling asleep.

Episodes can happen only occasionally or occur very often; their occurrences in children are generally random and unpredictable.

Sleepwalking has a history dating back to the 17th century; in Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Lady Macbeth sleepwalking scene is one of the most recognized in the play.

Sleepwalking is not an indication there is something wrong – it’s much more common than one may think!

Sleepwalking in children is fairly normal and is theorized to be caused by the delay in maturation within the brain and/or central nervous system that develops over time. The length of sleep cycles change throughout the night and as we age, which is why children are more prone to the disorder.

“Sleep walking occurs when there is an incomplete transition from slow wave sleep to alertness,” says Dr. Brian Murray, a sleep specialist at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and an Associate Professor at the University of Toronto.

“There is an arousal from slow wave sleep,” Murray explains. When that arousal occurs, sleepwalkers perform activities they would normally perform in a state of alertness. Despite its name, sleepwalking involves more than just walking. The behaviours performed are often simple, repeated actions including sitting up in bed or walking down a hallway, but can range from getting dressed to driving a car. Sleepwalking can also be accompanied by nonsensical talking or shouting.

Sleepwalkers will have little or no memory of their episodes due to their state of consciousness that makes it difficult to recall memories.

“The brain states of slow wave sleep and waking are very different chemically,” says Murray. “In slow wave sleep, there is little acetylcholine in the brain. Acetylcholine helps form memories and is abundant in waking. Given that there is an incomplete transition to wakefulness, there is often little recollection of the sleepwalking. It is possible however to have some recollection if enough acetylcholine is available.”

Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

www.chimneyhilldental.com New Patients & Emergencies Are Welcome Evening & Weekend Appointments Available

Various Dental Services Provided: White Fillings Comprehensive Dental Care Hygiene, Root Canal Treatments Porcelain Veneers Crowns Bridges Teeth Whitening Children’s Dentistry Extractions, Sealants Preventive Dentistry Dentures

Email: info@chimneyhilldental.com www.chimneyhilldental.com

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

95

DARPAN hEAlTh

Sleepwalking becomes a concern when the resulting behaviours are dangerous or likely to cause injuries. In these cases, and especially when children are involved, certain precautions should be taken to protect the inevitable actions.

Because sleepwalkers have little recollection of their behaviours, waking them during an episode can cause disorientation and confusion.

It can be hard to wake a sleepwalker and there is the risk of uncontrolled behaviours once they awake.

“Patients in slow wave sleep have underactive frontal lobes – the lobes that make us human and give us control over behaviour,” explains Murray. “Awoken sleep walkers may become violent or difficult. It is best to help them avoid danger however, e.g. stairs, and direct them back to bed.”

There is no guarantee a sleepwalker will become aggressive, leading many to discount the theory that you should never wake one, but if waking them is without benefit, then it may be best to reconsider.

CAUsEs Sleepwalking in children is fairly normal and is theorized to be caused by the delay in maturation within the brain and/or central nervous system that develops over time. The length of sleep cycles change throughout the night and as we age, which is why children are more prone to the disorder.

Sleep deprivation can lead to episodes of sleepwalking which can result from chaotic sleep schedules and poor sleep quality. Other medical conditions such as fevers and obstructed sleep apnea have been linked to sleepwalking;

96

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

while they aren’t considered the cause of the disorder, they facilitate the behaviours.

Psychiatric behaviours such as posttraumatic stress disorder or panic attacks can also contribute to sleepwalking. Additionally, it can be triggered by pregnancy, menstruation and magnesium deficiencies. Sleepwalking is also believed to be brought on by impairments due to drugs and alcohol which can have a considerable effect on one’s sleep patterns.

TREATMEnT Sleepwalking episodes tend to go away without intervention as children enter their

DARPAN

TM

teen years. “It is usually outgrown in adults,” Murray says. “With age, slow wave sleep decreases so there is less ability to arouse from slow wave sleep.”

Unlike other sleep disorders, sleepwalking doesn’t require treatment – and scientifically speaking, there really isn’t a way to specifically treat it. While it may seem strange to think a disorder doesn’t need to be treated, sleepwalking is not always problematic. Most sleepwalkers carry out tasks and manoeuvre around their environment without threat or injury. Because the symptoms of sleepwalking rarely interfere with other people’s actions, put anyone at risk or result from a more serious medical disorder, treatment isn’t necessary.

Sleepwalking becomes a concern when the resulting behaviours are dangerous or likely to cause injuries. In these cases, and especially when children are involved, certain precautions should be taken to protect the inevitable actions. Removing any hazard items from within reach or moving furniture to avoid falls will help lessen any sleepwalking injuries. If children who sleepwalk tend to leave the house, it’s suggested that an alarm is installed for doors to alert parents to any potentially dangerous activity.

If sleep issues don’t improve over time or as a child ages, there may be an underlying cause such as stress, a medical condition or behaviour issues. Recurrent sleepwalking, especially as one ages, may be a sign of more serious sleep issues, in which case, an additional diagnosis and medical treatment may be necessary.

While it’s difficult or unnecessary to treat sleepwalking in many cases, improving sleep quality can often result in a decrease in such sleepy yet active behaviours. “To treat sleep walking, the slow wave sleep and the arousal can be addressed,” says Murray.

“Sleep deprivation increases slow wave sleep, so ensuring adequate sleep time or naps can help this aspect.”

This is especially the case for adults who may perform tasks while asleep due to fatigue or the influence of drugs or alcohol. “The arousals can be addressed by considering intrinsic and extrinsic factors,” Murray goes on to explain. “Intrinsic factors include treatment of sleep apnea and periodic limb movements of sleep. Extrinsic factors include removing noise from the sleep environment e.g. using a white noise machine to mask sudden changes in the environment such as a car driving past.”

Sound Advice & Workable Solutions

O Corporate & Personal Taxation

CRA Audits and Appeals

Bookkeeping / Payroll

Tax Planning

Financial & retirement planning

Accounting and Assurance Files

Harinder Deol BBA, CGA

Tel. 604.598.1933 #203-8120 128 Street Surrey, BC

www.deolandcompany.ca DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

97

W

ith all of the talk about the growing obesity epidemic, it’s time for us to take a moment and discuss a common misconception about food.

The problem is that many people think that food has a single purpose to fill them up when they’re hungry. The stomach grumbles and the beast must be fed, no matter what’s used in the feeding.

This isn’t the case. Food isn’t just some

filler meant to simply fill a vacuum. It’s fuel that’s meant to power your body.

There is a wide gulf between these two viewpoints. In one, you might as well be stuffing yourself full of cotton (and considering the nutritional value of some junk food – or the lack thereof you might be better off with the cotton). In the other, you’re considering which foods provide your body with the right energy for the right purposes – sometimes regular unleaded is fine, and in

Feeding Yourself for Fitness

A bowl of oatmeal with a banana (the potassium is essential for good muscle function), a slice of whole grain toast, and fruit are great options.

EATInG RIGhT FOR A

FITTER YOu!

BY NICK HILDEN

There are two things you need to make your exercise effective – protein and carbohydrates.

98

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

other cases you need a dose of nitro.

Clumsy automotive metaphors aside, considering what you do and don’t put in your body impacts you in a variety of ways.

Eating the right food provides you with a clearer mind and a more energetic body. It ensures that your immune system is strong and that all of your organs are functioning properly. And if you work out regularly, the results you’ll experience are directly tied to the type of food you eat.

TM

For now we’ll keep things simple and say that there are two things you need to make your exercise effective – protein and carbohydrates. Carbs you ask? That’s right – the very thing you’ve been told to avoid at all costs.

The reason we’re told to cut out the carbs is because the average person consumes way too much of them.

When eaten in the correct fashion – complex carbs in low quantities – they actually help fuel you up for a longer workout, which results in more calories burned. Why? Because complex cards derived from whole grains provide you with a sustained blood sugar spike, which translates into energy.

At the same time, you need protein.

Protein is essential for repairing and building up muscle and other tissue. If fact, if you’re working out regularly but not eating enough protein, you’re not only limiting your gains – you might be losing muscle.

What to Eat

When it comes to carbs, your goal should be to eat a reasonable amount roughly 30 minutes to an hour before your workout.

A bowl of oatmeal with a banana (the potassium is essential for good muscle function), a slice of whole grain toast, and fruit are great options.

Before your workout, you also want to get in some protein. Yogurt, a slice of turkey on your toast, or a protein shake will do the trick.

Then you want to repeat this process within about 45 minutes after your workout.

This is when you body is hungriest for all the nutrients, and will process them most efficiently.

www.darpanmagazine.com

Reflecting SouthAsian Lifestyle

Subscribe Today!

E: info@darpanmagazine.com | T: 604.537.7277

Then as your day goes on, you need to keep fueling up on a regular basis. Your goal should be to consume a solid dose of protein at least five or six times a day. The old “three square meals” idea is old business you need to be providing your muscles with a consistent source of material to help it grow.

There is an easy rule to help you know whether you’re eating fuel or filler if it comes out of a can or a box, chances are it’s nothing more than stuffing.

So your goal should be to eat whole, unprocessed foods. I know that the antiprocessed talk can begin to sound like a broken record, but the reason it comes roaring back into style is because it works.

Stick to the peripheries of the grocery store. That’s where you generally find all of the produce, meat, and bread. (But remember easy does it on the bread!)

It might seem like it’s impossible to give up on your filler foods, but like any addiction – and it is an addiction all it takes is breaking the routine. Trust me once you’ve gone a couple of months without eating garbage, you’ll feel so great that you won’t want to go back.

EXPERT REPAIR FREE ESTIMATES

Laptop & Desktop Repair Website & Software Development Truck Dispatch System Server & Networking Cellphone & Tablet Repair Unlocking Devices

B

Bundle Up This Holiday Season

Make the most of what you love with Bell. Visit a Bell Store to demo the latest technology, get expert advice and find out how you can bundle your services and save.

The bottom line – start paying attention to what you eat, and learn how to fuel your body for peak productivity.

Nick Hilden

travel, advertising, journalism, biography, and more, and his work has appeared in publications such as the LA Times, Vice, LiveStrong, and Global Living Magazine. You can follow him on Twitter @LifeDoneWrite.

Available at:

A1wireless

SURREY: #1-7711 128th St

ABBOTSFORD: #105-2955 Galdwin Rd.

604 597 3115

604 854 3114

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

99

Finis Neptune Price: $159.99

DARPAN TECH

Neptune by Finis comes with the revolutionary Bone Conduction audio transmission technology that impressively transmits audio without using earplugs. The device comes with 4GB of storage, offering music, audiobooks and podcasts for the delightful entertainment of aquatic athletes. Neptune can be attached to goggle straps without disrupting swimming technique in any manner.

and gadgets to unleash the best of health in you.

gET FiT, gET

h‘app’Y

SmartMat Yoga Mat

BY GARIMA GOSWAMI

Preorder for $297 with $150 discount

W

e are living in an age where mobile phones are our ideal fitness mates.

Whether you are trying to monitor your weight, running a marathon, or analysing your everyday workout, your personal trainer is right inside your pocket, barking orders at you 24x7. But with over a million fitness apps and gadgets at our disposal, it is challenging to identify the best ones that will succeed in coaxing us to go that extra mile.

We’ve listed the up and coming fitness gadgets in the health and fitness industry that can help you keep a track on your exercising goals.

All you Yoga enthusiasts, you’ll love this! Built-in advanced sensor technology notifies you when you’re out of alignment on the mat and gives you real-time feedback on how to correct your pose. This intelligent Yoga mat certainly does take it to the next level.

Sensoria Fitness Socks Price: $119 After smart Yoga mat debuts the smart sock! Sensoria Fitness Sock is equipped with pressure sensors that analyse your run, including your foot placement technique, pace, distance and speed. The lightweight and wireless anklet relays this data to the app that provides real-time feedback for further enhancement of your fitness regime.

100

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL RENOVATIONS REPAIRS

Wiring Alarms New Construction Vacuum Intercom

Connected Cycle

Call Harvinder Srah (Harry)

Price to be announced Attach these pedals to your bike and turn it into a tracker. Connected Cycle works by tracking your speed, calories burnt, and terrain. Your riding stats are transmitted to an app the moment you get off your bike. These pedals also notify the app in case anyone tries to steal your bike, and thanks to the built-in GPS, you can locate the position of your bike any time.

Some Fitness Apps to check out in 2015

@ 604-729-6735

Serving the Community Since 1987

PROGRESSIVE INTERCULTURAL COMMUNITYSERVICES SOCIETY S U R R E Y | VA N C O U V E R | W H I T E R O C K | D E LTA

‘BEST’ PROGRAMS YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROGRAM UNDER SKILLS LINK PICS ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROGRAM FOR METRO VANCOUVER SELF EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM

For more info, please call Deshpal Grewal :

604.596.7722 ext. 126

Harmony House is a supportive cooperative house where battered women and their children who have been impacted by violence in intimate relationships, and have passed through the initial crisis stage, may stay between 6 to 18 months.For more information on whether this is the right house for you please call PICS. For more info, please call Sadia Sameeullah:

604.897.2313

PICS OFFERS DIVERSE PROGRAMS & SERVICES INCLUDING: EMPLOYMENT HOUSING LANGUAGE LITERACY SETTLEMENT LOCAL IMMIGRATION PARTNERSHIP (DLIP)

SPECIAL PROGRAMS: - COUNSELLING - LEGAL ADVOCACY - HIV PROGRAM - TRAIN THE TRAINER WORKSHOPS FOR SERVICE PROVIDERS - WORKPLACE INTEGRATION FOR MATURE IMMIGRANTS 45+ - TRANSLATION - VOLUNTEER PROGRAM - BETTER AT HOME - VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION

#205 12725 80TH AVE. SURREY, BC V3W 3A6

Moves Free on Android and iOS This app is more like your fitness journal, only that it’s automatic. It’s always on – meaning it is constantly tracking your body movements like walking, running and biking. You just have to make sure it is either in your pocket or bag. Use this app firstly to understand how much movement you are giving to your body on a daily basis, and secondly to work on improving it. Piece of advice: this app tends to drain the battery because it is always on; you will have to charge your phone every night.

T: 604.596.7722 F: 604.596.7721 website: www.pics.bc.ca

CHARAN GILL CEO, PICS

email: pics@pics.bc.ca

DONATE NOW! PICS Multicultural Extended Seniors Care Home

Designed to meet the Social, Cultural and Dietary needs of members of the multicultural community, PICS seniors Long Term Care Home will be located in Surrey. PICS’ proposed Long Term Care Home will be a 125 bed facility fully equipped to care for the elderly who need personalized attention in a setting which is familiar to them.

To donate call us or visit www.pics.bc.ca

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

101

DARPAN TECH

WHERE BUILDERS

BUY

RESIDENTIAL

COMMERCIAL

Charity Miles Free on Android and iOS Want to do some good while working out?

Download the Charity Miles app and earn money for every mile you walk, run or bike.

The setup is simple: Browse through the various charities enlisted, including World Wildlife Fund, Alzheimer’s Association, Autism Speaks and Girls on the Run; select the one you would like to support and you’re ready to go!

INDUSTRIAL

ACCURATE RAILING BEST & AWNING LTD

Aluminum Handrail Driveway Power Gates Awnings & Patio Covers

Aluminum Railing Gates / Fences Sunrooms

Stair Railing Glass Railing Securit y Bars

PRICE

GUARANTEE!* WE WILL BEAT OUR COMPETITION’S PRICE QUOTE...

Lose It! Free on Android, iOS, Nook and Kindle

JAGTAR 604-961-8767

AVTAR 604-866-1432

With Accurate, You Are In Safe Hands!

WWW.ACCURATERAILING.CA 126-130-12639-80TH AVE, SURREY, B.C

102

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

This app helps you create your customized weight loss plan, while offering a bunch of other things including setting your own calorie budget, nutrition intake, sleep and exercise. An interesting feature is the barcode scan that tells you what you are consuming in terms of nutrition with various products. Lose It! is compatible with several devices and apps including Nike+ FuelBand, Fitbit devices and MapMyFitness – so you can import your calorie intake chart.

Vancouver’s ouver’s nest nest, environmentally progressive tower featuring fea studios and 1- 3 bedroom units ranging from 455-1105 sq ft. with breathtaking panoramic views, durable ceramic tiles, textured carpeting, designer lighting and xtures and modern stainless steel appliances.

Visit our Showroom today!

2699 Kingsway Ave Vancouver, BC V5R 4S9

Quality Homes can’t be without Quality Appliances.

Handy Appliances is the proud supplier of appliances for Skyway Tower by THIND Properties - a landmark development in the heart of Vancouver’s vibrant new Norquay Community.

Appliances for Skyway’s modern kitchens are professionally supplied by Handy Appliances.

Rest assured that if you buy a Skyway Home, Handy's in-house service technician team will take care of all your after delivery service needs!

Handy Appliances is a full end to end Sales & Service Center.

From our showroom to your home, we take care of all your appliance needs.

Quality Appliances

Professional Installations

HANDY APPLIANCES BUILDERS DIVISION builders@handyappliances.ca 604-879-1555 : 778-385-1194 www.handyappliances.ca 705 E 17th Avenue Vancouver BC V5V 1B8

On-Site Warranty Services

HANDY APPLIANCES SALES SAL LES

SERVICE SER RVICE E DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

PARTS RT

INSTALLATIONS INS TALL

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

103

By Ashley Stephens

SHOW YOUR

HOME

You’re readY to sell Your home But is Your home readY to sell?

Before you open up your home to the meticulous eye of a potential buyer, take a tour with an expert.

You may love your paint colours but your realtor will know what buyers like – and don’t like – to see. While foregoing your personal preferences may be difficult, the expert advice will help you maximize your offers.

104

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

W

hether the market is hot for sellers or buyers have their pick of place, your home still needs to stand out.

Potential buyers are looking for a home to call their own, and if you want it to be the one you’re selling, your home has to look the part. Multiple or last minute showings means your house might need to be ‘show-ready’ at any time. Help your home sell quickly and maximize your return by dressing it up and paring it down.

“Decluttering before you put your house on the market is such a good plan,” says Kadie Bloom, real estate consultant with MacDonald Realty. Clear your shelves, keep your tabletops clean and empty out unorganized drawers or cupboards.

Reducing clutter will make your home appear brighter and bigger – two important qualities topping the list for potential buyers. “Instead of having the garage sale

DARPAN

TM

after you sell your house, have it before.

This way your only focus is keeping your house clean for showings.”

While you’re ridding your home of clutter, it’s important to remove all family photos, intimate artifacts, medications and awards. Buyers have a hard time seeing past any personal items; if they still see you in the house, it’s hard for them to picture themselves there.

Cleanliness is of utmost importance when opening your home up to potential

DARPAN HOME

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

105

While you’re ridding your home of clutter, it’s important to remove all family photos, intimate artifacts, medications and awards. Buyers have a hard time seeing past any personal items; if they still see you in the house, it’s hard for them to picture themselves there. buyers. It should be dusted and vacuumed before any showing in addition to washing the inside and outside of windows and doors. A clean home not only allows buyers a visually appealing view of their potential space but also allows the focus to remain on what your home has to offer instead of what needs to be cleaned.

Every buyer is sure to scope out the storage options in your home – and they’re

bound to snoop. Remove half the items from your closet and neatly organize what is left to create the illusion there is plenty of free space. This also leads buyers to believe that if you’ve taken such good care of your closets, you’ve taken good care of all other aspects of the house as well.

Maximizing the lighting within your home is sure to make it more marketable.

Buyers are in search of bright spaces – so

4*-7&3 45"3 - * . 0 6 4 * / & 4

] 106

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

consider changing, rearranging or cleaning your drapes, lampshades, trees and anything that may block sunlight from streaming in your windows. While looking at lighting, Bloom suggests taking the time to check every light, replacing any that are burnt out.

Consider ways to create a welcoming space so buyers want to stay...and hopefully move in. Set your table for dinner – the use of placemats and artfully-arranged dinnerware allow buyers to visualize their family sitting

8&%%*/(4 $03103"5& (3"%6"5*0/4 "*31035 53"/4'&34 4*()54&&*/( 8)*45-&3 53"/4'&34 41&$*"- 0$$"4*0/4

JOGP!TJMWFSTUBSMJNP DB XXX TJMWFSTUBSMJNP DB

DARPAN HOME down to a meal while highlighting an important area of a home. A simple, clean welcome mat feels homey and supportive. The atmosphere you create will play an important part in getting the price you want.

The outdoors can be equally important for inviting buyers to come in once they like the look of your listing. “People often forget this is the first impression people have of your house before they even decide to take a look on the inside,” notes Bloom. “This doesn’t mean doing a complete overhaul of your front yard.

This can range from buying a few flowering planters for around the front door to minimal landscaping work. A fresh coat of paint on the front door, and improved lighting can make a big difference for a relatively small expense.”

While sprucing up your dwellings will undoubtedly bring in more buyers, keep in mind that additional expenses for you might not translate into a higher offer from them.

“The most common question I get asked when looking through a home is “What improvements can I make to increase the value of my property?” says Bloom. “Every house is going to have a different answer but I suggest interior painting every time.”

“Use modern and neutral colours, avoid creative patterns or murals, and hire a professional,” Bloom says about painting.

“I can’t stress enough how important it is to hire a professional to do your renovations,” she adds. “Poor workmanship shows and buyers can tell the difference. You can do some work yourself but leave the finishing to the pros.”

Similarly, having your home professionally staged may be the best way to showcase your home’s potential. Furniture has the ability to maximize the use of a space and highlight the floor plan but only if set up in certain ways.

Before you open up your home to the meticulous eye of a potential buyer, take a tour with an expert. You may love your paint colours but your realtor will know what buyers like – and don’t like – to see. While foregoing your personal preferences may be difficult, the expert advice will help you maximize your offers.

Realtors will struggle to sell what they can’t show and even more so if they can’t show it well. While it may seem like a lot of work to consistently have your home ready for viewings, the work will be worth it when it comes with a higher price tag for your home.

For All Your Sporting Needs!

111 - 12888-80 Ave [ York Center ] Surrey BC. V3W3A8

604-597-8356 | 1-866-234-1104 www.A1sports.ca | 111 - 12888-80 Ave [ York Center ] Surrey BC

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

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

107

We complete each other. We are totally opposite but that’s what makes it work for us.

DARPAN Weddings

PHOTOS: AMASTERMEDIA

j a r g a & J neet v a N SA U , y e s w Jer

Ne

Q: How did you meet?

We meet in high school.

you take from each make up is the lesson of life.

Couples should always try to push each other higher and be there for each other no matter what!

Jagraj: We complete each other.

We are totally opposite but that’s what makes it work for us.

Neetu (Navneet) is proactive and organized; I’m laid back and a last minute type of guy.

We don’t really have a proposal story as we always knew we were going to get married. When the time was right we took the step.

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

Our wedding day was beautiful.

We had planned every little detail

and everything went accordingly, so we had no stress whatsoever.

We enjoyed every minute and it was a dream come true.

Q: Could you tell us about your reception?

Our reception was awesome.

We were on schedule and everything went great. We had practiced as planned. We wouldn’t change a thing.

Q: Can you describe

made from Jalandhar, India. Neetu went to India for three weeks with a plan and came back with the

colours and we made sure we matched 100 percent.

Navneet: Joga’s (Jagraj) reception

108

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

PHOTOS: Amrit Photography

Love can’t be forced and it can’t be fake. Everyone

Q: What do you love most about one another?

Q: Could you share your proposal story?

To keep your memories alive, there is only one way that is... AAA

1-888-HIRE-AAA

info@aaamovies.ca | www.aaamovies.ca Vancouver

Calgary

Tel: 604-999-8536

Tel: 403-975-1536

2391 McLennan Ave. Richmond, BC

7 Taralea Crescent NE. Calgary, AB

Seattle

292 15th Street. Blaine, WA

DARPAN

Tel: 206-909-2040

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

109

DARPAN Weddings www.amastermedia.com

1)050(3"1): $*/&."50(3"1):

604-723-6804 info@amastermedia.com

glove.

Q: Where did you honeymoon?

We went to Bora Bora for 10 nights. We spent four nights at Moorea and the rest at Bora Bora. It was an amazing experience. It is truly a paradise, and there can be no better place on earth than Bora Bora for

Available 24hrs a day, 7 days a week Weddings | Graduations | Airport Transfers | Corporate Travel | Club Runs And More

Q: What are your goals as a couple?

We want to continue living as best friends and help each other build our careers. Neetu wants to excel in her pharmacy career and me in my engineering.

We want to be our own bosses one day.

Q: What are the strengths of your marriage?

Our understanding of each other. We know what we are feeling without having to express it in words.

We are a couple who not only loves each other but also helps each other grow day by day. We both love to do the same things and love trying new things, especially food.

604.592.BOSS (2677) w w w.b ossl i mo s.c a

Q: If you could provide any, what would it be?

Love can’t be forced and it can’t be fake. Everyone lesson of life. Couples should always try to push each other higher and be there for each other no matter what.

110

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

Providing Global Construction Solutions RESTORATION DEVELOPMENT CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL SUPPLY SPECIALTY SERVICES

INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR DIVERSE PROJECTS SINCE THE 70’S

BRIDGES & DAMS CIVIL STRUCTURES SHOPPING CENTRES HIGH RISE BUILDINGS HERITAGE BUILDINGS PARKING STRUCTURES MARINE STRUCTURES INDUSTRIAL STRUCTURES

BALRAJ MANN GROUP OF COMPANIES BM Group of companies comprises of a diverse portfolio of construction, management, materials supply and real estate related businesses that are strategically aligned to provide value added services to our clients. Starting from Lower Mainland, British Columbia the group has expanded operations in other parts of Canada, USA and South East Asia.

DEMO LTD.

www.BMGroupInternational.com

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

111

SUMMER ACTIVITIES

FIVE REASONS TO

1

LOVE FALL IN VANCOUVER

Fall Colours I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – enjoying the fall foliage is

BY TARANA RANA

an essential part of this gorgeous season and a visit to Vandusen Botanical Garden is a

C

risp air, longer nights – it’s that time of the year again. Fall in Vancouver means Halloween events, Thanksgiving dinners and a line-up of fun festivals. Here is a quick list to help you make the most of this busy season.

must-do this time of the year. Walk through the different gardens to see vibrant fall shades. This makes for a great family excursion – after your walk, you can enjoy a meal at Truffles Café located in the Visitor’s Centre.

112

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

navdhaliwal.ca Makeup & Hair Artist

* Bridal * Glamour * Fashion * Editorial 778 242 0937 * 604 543 4688 #342- 8140 128 St

2

Cups of steaming hot chocolate Cold, crisp days are the perfect excuse

to enjoy a sinfully rich hot chocolate. For a truly unforgettable

cup

of

chocolate,

head

out

to

Chocolaterie de la Nouvelle France in East Vancouver.

This French-inspired chocolate café is the ideal place

OFFERING UNIQUE & AFFORDABLE HOME DESIGN SOLUTIONS!

HOUSES INTERIOR DESIGN

to grab that cup of cocoa, relax and imagine you’re in Paris. If one cup doesn’t do the trick, you can also

STAGING

give their drinking chocolate or chocolate tea a try.

RENOVATION LANDSCAPING

3

DESIGNERS

Doors Open Vancouver Do you ever enter a public building and

wonder what lies behind those restricted areas and closed doors? Well, Doors Open Vancouver (DOV) is a two-day event that gives you a chance to find out.

This unique event allows the public to freely access the behind-the-scenes areas to iconic Vancouver buildings. This year DOV will take place on October 2, between 12-7 pm and October 3, from 10 am – 5 pm. For updates and information, head to their website doorsopenvan.ca

T: 604-657-6612 | F: 604-207-0444 CONTACT PAUL OR PENNY: E: info@aneleganttouch.ca

604-418-8651 604-716-9658 www.aneleganttouch.ca E: lpdesigners@gmail.com

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

113

FALL ACTIVITIES

Head out down to Zombie Combat Zone in White Rock, Surrey, paintball scenario game is almost like the real deal !

4

Downtown Halloween Parade

5

Who doesn’t love a good parade? The

Halloween Parade is back in town this year on October 18. See your favourite supernaturals, comic book heroes, film characters, villains,

Zombie paintball What better way to get into the spirit of Halloween than fighting in a zombie apocalypse? Head out down to Zombie Combat Zone in White Rock, Surrey,

and mythic creatures prowl alongside marching

where you can do just that – with paintballs. This live action paintball scenario game is

bands and floats. There will also be music and

almost like the real deal – armed with your paintball gun, you are given a briefing on

performances. The parade runs from 11 am

your mission and some training before entering the combat zone. Book your zombie

onwards, rain or shine, and begins downtown

fighting session on their website at zombiecombatzone.com

at Howe St.

114

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

BC’S BEST SELECTION AT WHOLESALE PRICES!

Your one stop shop for bath, kitchen & plumbing supplies!

SURREY (HEAD OFFICE) 8247 130 STREET SURREY | VANCOUVER

VANCOUVER 1375 KINGSWAY

T: 604-507-2199 DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

115

J A PA N

Nagoya embodies a dual identity of rich tradition as well as cutting-edge modernity.

A mix of old And new:

BY Benjamin Yong

T

okyo and Osaka both carry a lot of clout with overseas tourists, largely because of their reputation as world-class destinations. But there are several other places on the island of Japan that deserve just as much recognition, like the central city of Nagoya that sits right in-between the above two well-travelled areas.

With a population of 2.24 million, Nagoya embodies a dual identity of rich tradition as well as cutting-edge modernity. Take for example the green-roofed Nagoya Castle, built by

the country’s first shogun (military ruler of Japan) during the Edo period in the 17th century, which has now become a major landmark. Fast forward 300 years or so and automaker giant Toyota, founded just to the east of the city, constructs another significant attraction, the Toyota Automobile Museum, housing vehicles from the start of the automobile evolution to the latest creations.

The dichotomy also exists in the wide variety of foods, shopping, entertainment and hotels that is offered within its borders and in the surrounding prefecture of Aichi. Here’s a guide to some of the spots you’ll want to visit.

Nagoya Castle

116

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

Once lived in by one of Japan’s three feudal lords, Tokugawa Ieyasu and his family, the castle perched high atop a stone foundation was originally completed in 1612. Several parts of the structure were damaged by air raids during the Second World War, and restorations continue to be an ongoing effort. The entry fee is 500 yen and inside, a mixture of recreated historical sets, scale models and preserved artwork spread out over six stories awaits visitors. Don’t leave without dropping by the gift shop on the top floor where wall-to-wall windows provide TM a magnificent exterior panoramic view.

PHOTOS: istockphoto, Benjamin Yong

NAGOYA

DARPAN TRAVEL

Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium There are plenty of aquariums all around the world, but Nagoya’s has a unique line up of aquatic creatures big and small from beluga whales and orcas to sea turtles and jellyfish.

Popular sections include the Antarctic tank populated by dozens of penguins and the recreated coral reef. Outside, there’s a 30-minute live dolphin show where trainers interact with the intelligent mammals to perform spectacular tricks. Adult admission is 1,600 yen and gives you entry to all the galleries.

WATER WALLS

By Kalsi Aluminum

Round 1 Spo-Cha

Japan is famous for its underground malls, where lines of shops exist right underneath pedestrians walking on the street above. Oasis 21 is certainly one of the most visually arresting ones, with a roof inspired by the “Spaceship Aqua.” There’s a tourist information centre inside, restaurants, stores, and it’s conveniently located next to a train station.

There are three other shopping arcades linked to the complex: Central Park, Chika Shin and Sakae Chika.

Opened in 1989, the Toyota Automobile Museum was part of the company’s 50th anniversary projects. Although Toyota is in the name, vehicles that hold any kind of industry significance or influence make up the 140 or so models on display. The facility is split into two buildings: the Main Building has a floor dedicated to classic and modern European and American cars like Volkswagen Beetles and Ford Model A’s, and there’s one for Japanese cars going back as far as the 1930s where you’ll find the first Toyota Corolla and Mazda Miata made. The Annex Building focuses on the progress of motorization in Japan, as well as societal changes with the advent of new technology and ideas.

INDOOR IMAGE

WATER WALLS

Please Call:

604.763.5679

1 w w w.k alsialuminum.com

LOCAL

TRAVEL

RECIPES

POLITICS MOVIES BEAUTY Magazine

South Asian

AUTOLIFESTYLE EVENTS

BEAUTY

Shop at Oasis 21

Toyota Automobile Museum

BUSINESS

A multi-level entertainment complex doesn’t begin to describe Spo-Cha, containing pretty much every fun activity you can imagine, crammed under one roof. For a set fee (i.e. 2,200 yen gets you three hours), guests have unlimited use of arcade games, bowling, batting cages, basketball, badminton, volleyball, squash, bubble soccer, and so on. There’s even a mechanical bull for those that feel adventurous enough.

SPORTS

BEAUTYSKIN

NEWS PRODUCTS

INDIA PHOTOS

FASHION VIDEOS

FITNESS

EXCLUSIVES CANADACELEBRITIES

CARS GOSSIP FOOD

BOLLYWOOD TECH

INTERVIEWSPOLITICS

GADGETS

DarpanMagazine.com

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

117

DINING Shirakawa Freshwater eel, or “unagi” in Japanese, is as famous a dish here in the west as it is in the east. Restaurants such as Shirakawa have a special way of preparing the meal, eaten in three parts. A sizable portion of grilled eel, layered on top of rice, is brought out with sides comprised of dried seaweed, wasabi and chopped green onions. Customers first scoop out a third of the eel rice into a small bowl to enjoy as is. Afterwards, you scoop a little more into the bowl and then ask your server for broth that is mixed in to create a soupy-rice and eel mixture. Finally, the rest is combined with the sides in your bowl to create a spicy and savoury experience.

Helping you in every step of the way!

Yadogari

Chandan K. Sabharwal Barrister & Solicitor

Sabharwal Law Group

We Specialize in: Divorce Annulment Separation agreements Cohabitation agreements Child support and spousal support

SABHARWAL LAW GROUP

118

Small claims matters Residential conveyancing Custody and Guardianship and parenting time with the children Property division and reapportionment

Unit 304 -7380 King George Blvd. Surrey, BC V3W 5A5 Telephone: 604-638-6998 | Fax: 604-638-6088

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

No trip to the Land of the Rising Sun is complete without having ramen (Japanese soup noodles). Like many other noodle eateries, patrons purchase a ticket at a machine near the entrance before sitting down to choose their desired style of ramen. Flavours range from the familiar pork with miso (fermented soybeans) or shoyu (soy sauce) to the more exotic. Hand your ticket to the server and a tasty hot treat soon arrives.

Just a note – tipping is not customary in Japan.

Denny’s If you’re wondering why Denny’s is on this list, it will become clear the moment you sit down – the logo is the only thing that is similar to the local franchise we have here. In the morning, one can order a typical Japanese breakfast with rice, a piece of fish, miso soup with seasoned white tofu. For lunch, try curried hamburger meat on rice. Feeling homesick? There are a handful of western classics on the menu. As a bonus, there’s free Wi-Fi available, somewhat of a rare commodity in the city.

www.darpanmagazine.com

Reflecting SouthAsian Lifestyle

Subscribe Today!

E: info@darpanmagazine.com | T: 604.537.7277

HOTELS Nagoya Tokyu Hotel

Original SWEET SHOP & RESTAURANT

If four-star accommodations in a well-appointed establishment are more to your liking, then look no further than the Nagoya Tokyu Hotel. Situated right in the core, there are 564 rooms with Wi-Fi, a fitness centre and pool (approximately 3,000 yen/visit), two bars and four restaurants, and parking (1,200 yen/ day). Searching for a place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing? Find your way to the Grindelwald lounge in the atrium offering a classy environment to have a cocktail or dessert while admiring the interior architecture.

Mouth Watering

Sweet, Snacks & Namkeen...

Nishiura Grand Hotel Kikkei For a true old Japan-style hotel stay, a ryokan, or Japanese inn, is the ticket. Originating from the Edo period (1863 to 1867), ryokans usually feature rooms with tatami (futon) bedding arrangements, a low table designed for sitting on the floor, and onsens (communal hot spring baths). Starting at 8,640 yen per person, a traditional Japanese seafood dinner and breakfast is served, and guests have access to two onsens, one of which resides on a partially open roof. Directly outside the hotel is Nishiura Beach, covered in gold sand and temperate ocean water in the summer months, perfect for a swim or taking in the scenery.

Always Fresh

WE ALSO DO

CATERING Davinder S. Mudhar

604.781.7169 Original Bhaia Sweet Shop & Restaurant #14-16, 6828 128th Street, Surrey Tel: 604.572.0403 or Fax: 604.594.0233

#124-15299 68th Ave., Surrey Tel: 778.578.4444 or Tel: 778.551.0143

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

119

BM W X 6 X DRIVE 50i

BY Benjamin Yong

B

efore we get into the nitty-gritty for the current BmW X6, a little history. The letter X was first used by BmW three decades ago to indicate four-wheel drive, which it still does with the XDrive nomenclature. During the eve of the new millennium, “X” evolved into a new model for the company in the X5, the first so-called Sports activity Vehicle (SaV) that allowed

120

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

BmW to expand into the realm of luxury off-road capability.

Further innovations brought about another first: the debut of a Sports activity Coupe (SaC). not to be confused with an actual two-door vehicle, the SaC took the essence and sporting nature of a traditional sports coupe and applied it to the SaV concept. Thusly, the X6 was born.

DARPAN

TM

HIGHLIGHTS

2015

MSRP: $ 83,190 (base) Motor: 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 Horsepower: 445 @ 5,500 rpm Torque (lb-ft): 479 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm Gearbox: Eight-speed Steptronic automatic Layout: Front engine, all-wheel drive Fuel economy: 17.4 L/100 km city/ highway combined (observed)

That was over 10 years ago, and the X6 has now entered its second generation appearing a lot meaner and more powerful. a new longer and leaner headlight design flows into a reworked dual kidney grille, proving my preceding point. as with all the other family member redesigns, there are now familiar slashed air vents ahead of the front doors that help dissipate turbulent air to reduce drag and improve aerodynamics.

The interior of the previous generation could hardly be described as Spartan, but there would be something amiss if the premium automaker didn’t up the stakes considerably with the introduction of version two. Sitting down on the

DARPAN AutoREVIEW

ridiculously supple camel-coloured leather seats is like slipping on a pair of worn-in fine italian leather gloves. aside from the obvious upgrade in upholstery, technology receives a bump in the form of BmW’s ConnectedDrive infotainment system. a widescreen 10.2inch monitor is perched above the centre air vents and acts as the command centre for entertainment, driver settings and information. The extra width comes in handy because in navigation mode, a map is always present on the side of the screen even when you’re inputting an address change, for instance. Using modern camera wizardry, there’s also a handy overhead view of the vehicle that pops up on the display and warns you if you’re getting too close to another object while in traffic or parking. available with two powertrain choices in Canada, my tester was the more powerful xDrive50i variant with the 4.4-litre twinturbo V8 motor. i guarantee that the moment you throw the car in Sport or Sport Plus mode, apply the throttle and hear the full-blown roar of the mammoth engine, you will completely forget you’re in a large SUV/SaC. The 445 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque up 45 hp and 29 lb-ft from previously is capable of propelling all 2,345 kilograms from 0-100 km/h in under five seconds.

For those times where a more composed ride is called for, there is an eco mode and the default Comfort that keeps the performance at a lower boil and fuel economy somewhat in check but don’t get your hopes up. Driving like a perfect gentleman (most of the time), my average consumption was 17.4 L/100 km in mixed city and highway conditions.

The 2015 BmW X6 is built in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

121

ACURA ILX STYLE & SAFETY

BY Benjamin Yong

D

espite only being on the market since 2012, acura’s most affordable sedan, the iLX, has already seen its fair share of alterations. Dropping the slow-selling Hybrid model last year, the iLX gets an early start on 2016 with a different engine, a significant facelift and an additional trim level that i tested: the top-level a-SPeC grade, which includes a handful of sporty exterior and interior additions. i’m going to start by saying the re-

122

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

fresh looks fantastic, particularly with the orchid White Pearl paint (are there any Honda/acuras that don’t look good in this colour?) The front end of the vehicle is much bolder embodying sharper lines, bigger intake ducts, a new “shield” grille resembling a silver stealth bomber, and the signature jewel eye LeD headlight makeover as standard. The changes to the rear are less dramatic with combination LeD taillights and a bumper

DARPAN

TM

HIGHLIGHTS

2016

MSRP: $ 34,890 (base) Motor: 2.4-litre four-cylinder i-VTEC Horsepower: 201 @ 6,800 rpm Torque (lb-ft): 180 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm Gearbox: Eight-speed dual-clutch automatic Layout: Front engine, front-wheel drive Fuel economy: 11.2 L/100 km city/ 9.4 highway (manufacturer estimate) combined (observed)

the award-winning acuraWatch safety suite now comes on all ilX models, encompassing a wide-array of features like lane departure warning and lane keep assist. the former sounds an audible alert to let you know when you’ve drifted outside your lane, and if activated, the latter will actually nudge the steering for you to keep you within the markers. housing a pair of vents to match the front. a-SPeCs also come bundled with fog lights, side aero, flush rear spoiler, and 18inch wheels. most of the interior revisions have to do with comfort and convenience, such as suede seat trim for the a-SPeC; stan-

INCLUDES $1,000 OWNER BONUS** AND $3500 FALL BONUS CREDIT***

INCLUDES $1,000 OWNER BONUS** AND $3500 FALL BONUS CREDIT***

“SERVING OUR COMMUNITY FOR OVER 30 YEARS”

NORTH SHORE’S EXCLUSIVE CADILLAC STORE

604-987-5231 PRAKASH PANCHAL

SUNIL DESAI

SALES & LEASE CONSULTANT

SALES MANAGER

C: 778-889-7932

C: 778-868-5757

Prakash.panchal@cartergmnorthshore.com

sunil.desai@cartergmnorthshore.com

800 Automall Drive

|

North Vancouver

cartergmnorthshore.com DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

123

DARPAN AutoREVIEW Fabricating beauty for your Home and office!

We Specialize in: ~ Interior & Exterior Glass Railing ~ Aluminium Staircase ~ Sliding, swing gates & Automation ~ Aluminium Fence & Railing ~ Wine cellar Door ~ Custom steel & Email: aclassfabrication@shaw.ca Aluminium decorative A-Class Fabrication Co.Ltd. H 8065, 130 St, Surrey BC, V3W 7X4

Tel: 604-572-8585 / Call Nick: 604-760-5654 www.aclassfabrication.ca

www.railingvancouver.ca

Diamond Sweet&Restaurant UR

OUT O

ASK AB

& LUNCNHER N DI

EAT IN TAKEOUT

LS!!!

SPECNIA 7 DAYS OPE 0 PM M - 9:3 10:30 A

We Do Catering for all Occasions!

CONTACT : GOGI LIDDER OR HARJINDER LIDDER UNIT # 160-8047 SCOTT RD, DELTA, BC

T: 604.591.7277 124

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

UNIT # 102-15933 FRASER HWY, SURREY, BC

UNIT # 102-7228 192 ST, LANGLEY, BC

T: 604.593.5566 T: 604.372.4949

DARPAN

TM

dard Siri eyes Free smartphone connectivity; active noise Control designed to cancel out offending sounds using counteracting frequencies from the audio speakers; and available aha internet radio service.

Trims above the base come with an eightinch top and seven-inch bottom on-Demand multi-Use Display infotainment system that i continue to find tricky to use, simply because of the number of displays and mixture of interconnected touchscreen and physical buttons. gPS is built-in to the upgraded package, but i found it to be slow and at times laggy to respond to commands.

The award-winning acuraWatch safety suite now comes on all iLX models, encompassing a wide-array of features like lane departure warning and lane keep assist. The former sounds an audible alert to let you know when you’ve drifted outside your lane, and if activated, the latter will actually nudge the steering for you to keep you within the markers. it’s especially helpful for long highway commutes. gone is the old 2.0-litre engine and in its place is the lone offering for all iLXs, a 2.4-litre, i-VTeC motor putting out 201 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque that’s an increase of 51 hp and 40 lb-ft, respectively. Power is handled through an eight-speed dual clutch automatic transmission (DCT) with paddle shifters. While fuel economy is above average, hovering around 11.2 L/100 km in combined city and highway conditions during my relatively short test period, there isn’t much to say about the driving experience. acceleration is not a problem with posted 0-100 km/h times of under eight seconds, yet somehow the car feels more an appliance than it does a sports sedan as it’s labelled by marketing. Updates to the electric power steering help to create a better feel on the road, but i just didn’t find iLX that fun to drive. The DCT handles shifts quickly and seamlessly, although the engine can sound whiny on downshifts and in Sport mode when the gears are held longer. Bear in mind this is acura’s so-called gateway luxury vehicle, and there are plenty of other choices throughout the lineup if more refinement and/or thrill is what you’re after.

“Come see why so many people choose Wolfe Auto Group for their car purchase.”

WOLFE MITSUBISHI

WOLFE MAZDA

STARTING AT:

STARTING AT:

$21,698 10 year warranty Air conditioning Heated seats

Tilt steering Hill start assist Power windows

2015 MITSUBISHI RVR Side marker lamps Heated mirrors 60/40 Split rear seats

$20,695 Full power group Push button start Air conditioning

Cruise Control Fog lights

WOLFE SUBARU ON BOUNDARY

RE STARTING AT:

$27,670

2016 MAZDA CX-3

Back up camera 6 speed automatic 2.0L skyactive engine

16" wheels intermittent wipers Bluetooth

ABS breaks traction control

WOLFE SUBARU T BA

E

STARTING AT:

2016 SUBARU FORESTER

$26,645

2015 SUBARU CROSSTEK

NOW AT 4 LOCATIONS FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE WOLFE LANGLEY MAZDA WOLFE SUBARU ON BOUNDARY WOLFE MITSUBISHI WOLFE SUBARU 19265 LANGLEY BYPASS 1325 BOUNDARY RD 19360 LANGLEY BYPASS 19372 LANGLEY BYPASS SURREY BC VANCOUVER BC SURREY BC SURREY BC

NOW OPEN! Wolfe Fine Cars, Our Pre-owned Certified Luxury Car Division.

Visit Any Of Our Four Websites Under Luxury Unit & Truck Sale! www.LangleyMazda.com

www.VancouverSubaru.com

DARPAN www.LangleyMitsubishi.com

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

125 www.LangleySubaru.com

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

BY Benjamin Yong

Mazda CX-3

W

hether it’s small pastries, small pets or small clothes, people like little, cute things. So it’s no surprise that when the miniature or, officially, subcompact crossovers SUVs recently hit the scene, people went wild. one of the pioneers of this new segment is the mazda CX-3. i was present when it was first revealed to the public at last year’s Los angeles international auto Show and

126

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

admittedly became smitten with its attractive appearance, which is saying a lot considering i’m not usually one for sport utility vehicles of any size or shape. even given its space-saving figure, you’d be hard pressed to guess the CX-3 is based off the tiny mazda2 platform, granted the form factor does remind me more of a big hatchback than a shrunken SUV. There’s still 452 TM

HIGHLIGHTS

2016 MSRP: $24,195 (base) Motor: 3.2-litre Pentastar V6 Horsepower: 146 @ 6,000 rpm Torque (lb-ft): 146 lb-ft @ 2,800 rpm Gearbox: Six-speed automatic Layout: Front engine, front-wheel drive Fuel economy: 8.4 L/100 km city/hwy combined (observed)

litres of cargo space in the back with the rear seats up, expanding to 1,528 with the seats down (gT models get a little less with 408/1,484, respectively).

Design language remains inspired by KoDo, written all across the face with the stylized headlights and dominant grille. The blackened front lip, wheel arches, side sills, and rear bumper garnish lend the vehicle some off-road street cred.

Split into gX, gS and grade-topping gT trims, i tested the mid-tier gS in a lovely gleaming Ceramic metallic colour.

The $1,500 Luxury Package adds an instant upscale feel to the interior by providing black and red leatherette coverings on most of the otherwise plastic interior pieces.

Controls and displays are consistent with other recent mazda offerings such as the floating seven-inch infotainment

DARPAN AutoREVIEW

TOYOTA

screen above the dashboard, the Humanmachine interface media wheel/controls on the centre console and the neat all-inone instrument cluster that has an inner ring showing the rpms and an outer ring for speed. every trim level comes with the mazda Connect system that offers your run-of-the-mill in-car apps and an ability to receive text messages and emails.

Power comes by way of a 2.0-litre SKYaCTiV-g engine pushing out 146 horsepower and a matching 146 lb-ft of torque. To make driving a little more fun, there’s a six-speed automatic transmission with a manual mode, and there’s also a sport mode setting that changes the throttle response to add a little more torque into the mix when you step on the accelerator. Doing so does give you a kick in the pants, but the motor sounds like it’s working really hard to squeeze out every ounce of power from all four cylinders.

There’s an all-wheel drive option available, however, my press vehicle was equipped with front-wheel drive. Besides being excellent at saving fuel my consumption numbers were 8.4 L/100 km in mostly city driving for the week it’s about 64 kilograms lighter and 0.3 seconds quicker from 0-100 km/h, though i doubt many owners will be lining up to do quarter-mile runs.

The CX-3’s small-car underpinnings and sub-1 300 pound weight do make it one of the more fun crossovers to drive and it needs to be as this hot new crossover segment becomes more competitive by the minute with the likes of the Honda HR-V, Fiat 500x and jeep Renegade. just judging from the amounts of questions i was asked by curious members of the public who saw me driving around, i’d say mazda is setting the bar pretty high with this one.

0

% FINANCING AVAILABLE

OR REBATES UPTO

$ 6000!*

*on selected models, call for details

T: 604-833-7773 Tel: 604-833-7773 Fax: 604-465-7987

25TH ANNIVERSARY SALE IS ON NOW! STARTING FROM

LEASE FROM

$24,990 $129 BI-WEEKLY

COME SEE WHY We are BC’s Largest Volume MAZDA Dealers for

5 consecutive years!

2015 MAZDA CX-5

604-781-0644

DARPAN

shanenakai@hotmail.com

www.langleymazda.com

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

127

2015 Volkswagen golf

SpoRTwAgon I

first saw the Volkswagen golf SportWagen it’s spelled Sportwagon here in Canadia, FYi at the Los angeles international auto Show last year and knew it was going to be something special. While “station wagon” is considered a taboo term down south, in the great White north we don’t seem to mind a practical vehicle that allows us

128

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

to function in adult mode without having to transition to a SUV or minivan. offered in both a gasoline TSi 1.8-litre with 170 horsepower and a TDi 2.0 L with 150 hp, i gleefully was able to test the latter on a 970-kilometre drive from Vancouver to Calgary. The magic number for the diesel variant is 236 that’s how many pound-feet of torque is available

DARPAN

TM

HIGHLIGHTS

BY Benjamin Yong Price as Tested: $31,745 (base) Engine: 3.2-litre Pentastar V6 Power: 271 @ 6,500 rpm Torque: 239 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm Gearbox: Nine-speed automatic Layout: Front engine, four-wheel drive Fuel Consumption: 13.1 L/100 km city/9.4 hwy (manufacturer estimate)

at a lowly 1,750 rpm, which means available power almost immediately when you need it.

First, lets talk about how it looks. if you like the standard golf/gTi shape, then by extension you should love the wagon. it’s really just a stretched out version: basically imagine an elongated hatchback, with some slightly different bumpers, taillights, liftgate and a set of roof rails. my range-topping Highline trim tester was equipped with lots of creature comforts, like a huge panoramic sunroof, ambient LeD lighting and dual zone climate control. Then there’s the leathercovered sports seats, with 12-way power adjustability for the driver, that i can’t praise enough. on my 11-hour trek to alberta, i often drove for three to four hour

LANGLEY

19545 No.10 Hwy, Surrey, BC, V3S 6K1

604-534-7431 DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

129

DARPAN AutoREVIEW

Join us for lunch or dinner

Where cooking is an art

EAT IN OR TAKE OUT

Private Banquet Rooms available

PATIO NOW OPEN Daily Lunch Special from

$8.95 PANORAMA VILLAGE 604.576.1151 15133-56th Ave.

SCOTT ROAD 604.585.3331 9470 120th St.

Complete menu & restaurant details at

www.mahek.ca

130

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

stretches at a time. never once did any part of my body cramp up, and i think a lot of that has to do with the wonderful lumbar support offered. as with other cars in the lineup, the navigation system is intuitive and fairly quick big assets when finding one’s way in a different city. nowadays we all need to charge our mobile devices, and i was shocked that my Sportwagon didn’t have USB ports. it’s coming in 2016 models when the company launches a new infotainment platform, but that provided little solace during my trip. There is a proprietary cable for apple devices, but the way it’s designed, if you have a case on your phone (who doesn’t?) you may have to remove it before you can plug in. on the road, the cabin is whisper quiet. There is a faintest lumpy engine sound characteristic of diesels, but highway noise is kept to a minimum. at 903 millimetres, the rear legroom isn’t as spacious as you would guess given the form factor, but there’s oodles of cargo space in the back: 861 L with the rear seats up, and 1,883 L seats folded.

The last time i drove to CowTown, i took a previous-gen mazdaSpeed3. While the drive was fun, i remember stopping multiple times for a fill up, and sweating bullets when the “no gas for 100 kilometres” sign appeared on the side of the highway, somewhere around the halfway point between the two provinces. With the turbodiesel, i had no such worries whatsoever. i almost made it all the way to my destination without refueling, the car yielding something like 800 km on a single tank. if growing up means having a station wagon as a daily driver, than maybe it’s not so bad after all. gasoline models start at $22,495, TDi at $24,995.

REAL COMFORT COMES FROM BEING IN CONTROL. THE 2015 JAGUAR XJ. Creating a luxury car with a lightweight aluminum body has certain advantages.

Brisk acceleration for one thing.* Precise, sports car-like control as well. And all the weight we save allows for more opulence inside, like abundant glove-soft leather and real wood veneers. The Jaguar XJ. If you demand performance with your luxury, visit Jaguar Vancouver today.

JAGUAR VANCOUVER

1730 Burrard Street Vancouver, BC V6J 3G7 604-738-5577 | jaguarvancouver.ca

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

131

STARDOM SCARES ME”

132

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

DARPAN EXCLUSIVE

BY SHWeTa KULKaRni

VARUN

DHAWAN Life is pretty much the same.

I still do not filter what I say and just say things. I still have the same set of friends; my lifestyle has not changed either. What has changed is the privacy.

V

arun Dhawan may have given five hits in a row, but the young boy charms you with his down-toearth attitude and his undying desire to entertain people.

these guys who were a part of the film, I was completely taken aback. The best thing about them was they all were dancing to express and not to impress, and that is something I learned from them.

He is just five-films old, but the Dhawan boy is already atop of the popularity chart amongst his contemporaries. With films as diverse as Main Tera Hero to Badlapur, Varun has not only proven his versatility as an actor but has also built a fan base across both the set of audiences – the ones who prefer serious realistic cinema, and the ones who love out-and-out masala flicks.

His latest film ABCD 2 is in the 100 crore club, marking his fifth hit in a row since his debut film Student Of The Year, he has replaced Salman Khan in Shuddhi, has a film with Shah Rukh Khan – life couldn’t have got any better for this star prodigy.

However, Varun Dhawan is least affected by all the fanfare around him, and instead of floating in the bubble of success, has his feet firmly planted on the ground.

Earlier I used to just dance to impress, but after this film, I know that there is so much purity and spirituality to dancing. All these guys I danced with – Punit, Sajaan, Sushant, Raghav, Dharmesh – all of them have a certain expression in their dance. They are just not moving their hands from here to there… that movement is for a reason, they are sensing something in the music and moving accordingly. And for me there was lots of understanding that needed to happen before getting into the film. First thing, Remo sir told me is that – anybody can dance, but you have to have the passion for dancing, you need to respect dancing and understand what dancers are.

ABCD 2 is definitely not your regular Bollywood dance film, weren’t you apprehensive about being a part of this dancing extravaganza, which stars dancing legends like Prabhu Deva?

To be honest, I came into the film with a bit of over-confidence. But when I saw all

Suddenly all this seems quite difficult, so how did you train yourself to match the moves of these experts?

You know I trained for around six months; I found it difficult initially but got the hang of it within two months of training. I worked with the Fictitious Group, and then I trained with these ‘Dance India Dance’ champions like Punit and Raghav. So I trained with the best and put in a lot of efforts.

But still if you will see, these guys are stealing

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

133

DARPAN EXCLUSIVE

To be honest, I came into

ABCD 2 with a bit of overconfidence. But when I saw all these guys who were a part of the film, I was completely taken aback.

The best thing about them was they all were dancing to express and not to impress, and that is something I learned from them.

the show with their dancing.

While they are stealing the show, your fans are loving you on the screen. In fact, ever since your first film you have established a strong fan following, which turned phenomenal post Main Tera Hero … must say you are a superstar in making.

cry. The reason I am here is because I love movies because I love to entertain the audience. Other things do not really matter.

No, not at all! I do not think I am there as yet. In fact, I do not get this at all, for me the Khans, Akshay Kumar, Ajay Devgn – all these guys are superstars. Yes, all this adulation feels great but it makes me feel more responsible towards my work. I just feel I need to work harder and continue to entertain my audience.

So you don’t want to achieve the stardom?

Why not? But I need to earn it. At the same time, it scares me. I think once you reach there, it just gets crazy. And I have heard a lot of people say that it is really lonely up there on the top. So I am happy with where I am.

P h oto : R o h a n S h R e S t h a

I am not being humble or down to earth about it. I feel that at the end of the day the audience is waiting to watch entertaining stuff. When they get bored, they go to the theater for something that will entertain them and my job is to entertain the audience. I love pleasing the audience, I love to make them laugh and

Being an industry kid, Bollywood has always been a known playground for you.

However, how would you define your journey as an actor here?

Trust me it is not easy. Yes, because I am an industry kid my entry in films had been smooth, but working on a film is not as simple as it appears to be. It is a lot of hard work put together. But I am not

134

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

LUXURY. COMFORT. STYLE.

www.royaltychauffeurs.ca

WEDDINGS

CORPORATE

GRADUATIONS

SPECIAL EVENTS

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

604-728-0024

Email: royaltychauffeurs@live.ca DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

135

DARPAN EXCLUSIVE

Today Hindi film industry is competing with cricket, competing with politics, competing with the weather; we are competing with enough natural things already, then why compete with human beings? There is enough space for everyone here, so why bother competing?

I believe in doing my own thing and focusing on my work.

136

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

complaining, the journey so far has been great, I have met some really good directors and got to work with lovely actors.

Though you are born in the film industry, suddenly many things change for you the minute you face the camera, how has life changed for you in these past three years?

Life is pretty much the same. I still do not filter what I say and just say things. I still have the same set of friends; my lifestyle has not changed either. What has changed is the privacy. There is very less privacy in my life now. People are constantly clicking pictures of me whenever I am out. I am clicked with so many girls, sometimes even when I am just walking past someone.

The media is constantly writing about you, linking you with someone one day, and with another the next day. Sometimes I lose my cool, sometimes I get irritated‌ but at the end of the day I feel I am blessed to be where I am.

We specialize in Laneway Housing!

7265 Fraser St. Vancouver, BC V5X 3V1 Phone: 604-323-1233

TEJESHWAR SINGH

VIKRAM SINGH

B.ARCH, ASCT, CRD, AT.AIBC

Tell us something about Shuddhi?

Honestly, I don’t know anything about Shuddhi, it will not start till next year and before that I have to complete two other projects.

Dilwale with Shah Rukh is one of them, can you tell us about it?

Dilwale is my type of film. I am a Rohit Shetty fan and I always wanted to work with him. I can’t reveal much about the film at this point, but I can tell you one thing, I am the most excited person on the sets of the film.

Career-wise, have you set any goals for yourself?

Not really. However, yes I want to continue doing different kind of films and continue to entertain my audience.

1

The innovative Creative Touch

LOCAL

TRAVEL

RECIPES

Christian Wong POLITICS MOVIESDr. Orthodontist

BEAUTY Magazine

South Asian

AUTOLIFESTYLE EVENTS

BEAUTY

Today Hindi film industry is competing with cricket, competing with politics, competing with the weather; we are competing with enough natural things already, then why compete with human beings? There is enough space for everyone here, so why bother competing? I believe in doing my own thing and focusing on my work.

info@simplexhomedesign.com

www.simplexhomedesign.com

STOCK PLANS CUSTOM HOMES PROJECT MANAGEMENT COMMERCIAL PROJECTS DESIGN CONSULTANCY INTERIOR DESIGN

BUSINESS

Who do you think is your competition today?

B.ARCH, STUDIO DIRECTOR

#101-12725, 72nd Ave Surrey, BC V3W 2M7 Phone: 604-597-3582 Fax: 604-597-3513

SPORTS

BEAUTYSKIN

NEWS PRODUCTS

INDIA PHOTOS

FASHION VIDEOS

FITNESS

EXCLUSIVES CANADACELEBRITIES

CARS GOSSIP FOOD

BOLLYWOOD TECH

INTERVIEWSPOLITICS

GADGETS

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

SHWETA KULKARNI Shweta Kulkarni is a dreamer, wanderer, and writer who is captivated by the fascinating world of cinema. She has been passionately writing about films and celebrities for over a decade and often indulges in some travel and lifestyle writing too.

DarpanMagazine.com DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

137

DARPAN BOX OFFICE

SIngH IS BLIng Releasing date: October 2 Directed by: Karan Malhotra Starring: Akshay Kumar, Amy Jackson, Lara Dutta, Kay Kay Menon

Singh Is Bling marks Akshay Kumar’s fourth release this year. After a series of serious films like Baby, Gabbar Is Back and Brothers, Singh Is Bling promises to be a perfect masala entertainer, with Akshay’s trademark style stamped all over it. Helmed by Prabhudeva, who had earlier directed Akshay in Rowdy Rathore, Singh Is Bling is a family entertainer, which is high on action and comedy. “The film is a fun ride,” said the film’s leading lady Amy Jackson, who is sharing the screen with the khiladi for the first time. “Akshay sir is wonderful to work with. I was pretty nervous to work with him initially, but he really helped me work on my character and to give my best,” added the pretty actress. “It is always fun working with Akshay, that apart I am also in love with my character. You will see me in a never seen before avatar in Singh Is Bling,” said Lara Dutta who has a pivotal role in the film.

B

S W e I V e Pr

THe BoLLYWooD

CALenDer By shweta kulkarni

C

omedy is certainly the flavour of the season coupled with a good dose of stylized action. The multi-starrer extravaganza Welcome Back, promises to be a perfect entertainer with all the elements of action, comedy, and drama. Then there is the remake of the 80s hit, Hero, which is produced by none other than boxoffice’s all time favourite Salman Khan. For those who cannot have enough of the versatile actress Kangana Ranaut, there is this crazy romantic comedy called Katti Batti, where she shall be seen sharing screen space with the chocolate boy Imran Khan. And of course, running high on the bling quotient is Akshay Kumar, who is all set to entertain with Sing Is Bling. From the looks of it, there is plenty in store for all you movie buffs.

Hero

Releasing date: September 11 Directed by: Nikhil Advani Starring: Sooraj Pancholi, Athiya Shetty, Govinda, Kader Khan

138

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

After the humongous success of Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Salman Khan is back again, however, this time around he is playing a bigger role – that of a producer for Hero. Made under his production banner, Salman Khan Films, Hero is a remake of the 1983 film of the same name, which made Jackie Shroff a star overnight. Said to be a dream launch for Aditya Pancholi’s son, Sooraj Pancholi and Suniel Shetty’s daughter, Athiya Shetty, the film retains the essence of the original movie, but the story has been given a complete makeover. Nikhil Advani reveals, “Salman has really pushed all of us to do our best. He wanted the action to be bigger, more stylized and the story more contemporary. As a producer, he was really our strength.” The director is also all praises for the newcomers as he said, “Athiya and Sooraj are very good. Athiya’s trademark is her confidence while Sooraj’s is his honesty and his ability to connect.”

www.darpanmagazine.com

Reflecting SouthAsian Lifestyle

Subscribe Today!

KATTI BATTI

Releasing date: September 18 Directed by: Nikhil Advani Starring: Imran Khan, Kangana Ranaut

Close on the heels of Hero is yet another offering from director Nikhil Advani a fun breezy romantic comedy, filled with witty one-liners Katti Batti. Revolving around contemporary relationships, the film narrates the tale of Maddy (Imran Khan) and Payal (Kangana Ranaut), who are in a live-in relationship for five years. After charming everyone with her remarkable performances in movies like Queen and Tanu Weds Manu Returns, Bollywood’s reigning queen Kangana is ready for some bohemian madness with Katti Batti. Her co-star Imran Khan can’t stop raving about her as he said, “It is a very demanding and tricky role…very few actresses can do it. I feel no other actress could have done it like her and done justice to the character.” Elaborating further on the plot, Imran revealed, “It is an unusual love story with a twist, which will certainly bring a smile to your face.”

E: info@darpanmagazine.com | T: 604.537.7277

Rik ki Pur i N O T A R Y

P U B L I C

www.yournotary.ca

Our Services Conveyancing Land Transfers Mortgages Subdivision Plans Powers of Attorney Wills Business Transfers Attestations

WeLCoMe BACK Releasing date: September 4 Directed by: Anees Bazmee Starring: John Abraham, Nana Patekar, Anil Kapoor, Paresh Rawal, Naseeruddin Shah, Shruti Haasan, Dimple Kapadia

From paragliders performing breathtaking stunts in the sky to some stylized action sequences, this sequel to the 2007 comic blockbuster, Welcome Back, promises to be loaded with not only rib-tickling humour but also with oodles of extensive actions sequences. Packed with a good dose of comedy and drama, the film brings back the affable bhais Uday Shetty (Nana Patekar) and Majnu Bhai (Anil Kapoor) on-screen; giving them company in this comic caper are Paresh Rawal (who reprises his role of Dr. Ghunghroo from the prequel), John Abraham (Ajju Bhai), and Naseeruddin Shah (Wanted Bhai). The plot is as crazy as that of the prequel and revolves around the marriage of bhai’s sister Shruti Haasan to Ajju Bhai. Adding further drama to the plot is Dimple Kapadia’s character, for which, Anees Bazmee has borrowed a lot from Hollywood celebrity Paris Hilton’s lifestyle and wardrobe.

Ri kki Puri, MBA

Notary Public

Tel: 604-568-5566 Fax: 604-568-5295 VANCOUVER 4683 Kingsway, Burnaby BC V5H 2B3 (Main Location)

SURREY 102-7577 King George Hwy V3W 5A8 (By appointment only)

E-mail: rpuri@yournotary.ca

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

139

The Martian Releasing date: October 2

If once Ridley Scott was the go-to man for quality blockbusters, as of late that image has been tarnished a bit. The uninspired Exodus: Gods and Kings and the very odd The Counselor had audiences wondering if its time for the 78 year-old to consider retirement.

Scott, however, plans to go down swinging. His latest, an adaptation of Andy Weir’s novel The Martian, looks at least a lot of fun: Matt Damon is an astronaut stranded in Mars, with limited supplies, and the knowledge that any rescue mission would take four years to reach him. His only option is to use science to endure and maintain his sanity. Classic “triumph of the human spirit” stuff.

TRIUMPH

IF THIS SUMMER WAS STAR-PACKED,

OF THE

PREPARE FOR THE MOST PROMISING

FALL

AUTUMN OF THE DECADE.

DARPAN BOX OFFICE

BY JORGE IGNACIO CASTILLIO

Sicario

Releasing date: September 25 Quebecois director Denis Villeneuve is feeling at home in the prestige picture realm. After racking awards and nominations for Polytechnique, Incendies, Prisoners and Enemy, Villeneuve goes for the gold again with Sicario. By depicting the journey of a rookie officer (Emily Blunt) enlisted to battle in the war-on-drugs, the filmmaker tackles the muddy waters in which traffickers and lawmen collide. His conclusion? Nobody really wants it to end. Sicario was already a favourite in Cannes and is poised to make a run for an Academy Awards’ Best Picture nomination

140

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

Everest

Releasing date: September 18 In 1996, just as Mount Everest was going from barely explored to ubiquitous tourist attraction, a storm killed eight members of an expedition. Not only that, the rest had to battle frostbite and the elements to make it back to camp and paid dearly. Even though the event was chronicled in the best-selling book Into Thin Air, the movie is its own beast. It features an all-star cast – Josh Brolin, Robin Wright, Jake Gyllenhaal, Keira Knightley and Jason Clarke – and based on the trailer, spectacular visual effects.

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

141

DARPAN BOX OFFICE

The Walk

Releasing date: October 9 One of the few filmmakers capable of blending cutting-edge technology with compelling storytelling, Robert Zemeckis (Back to the Future, Forrest Gump) tries to mix drama and 3-D imagery in The Walk. A fictionalization of the Oscar winning documentary Man on Wire, The Walk follows French artist Philippe Petit (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) in his efforts to cross the Twin Towers in 1974.

Just as dramatic as the act itself was the heist that allowed this to happen (the high-wire walk was never officially authorized). The trailer alone gave me vertigo.

Steve Jobs

Crimson Peak Releasing date: October 16

Mexican filmmaker Guillermo del Toro has always been on the verge of becoming the next big thing without actually getting there. Both Hellboy: The Golden Army and Pacific Rim were successful blockbusters, but not successful enough to command further sequels. In Crimson Peak, Del Toro scales back a bit (without abandoning his visual flair) to tell the story of Edith (Mia Wasikowska), a young woman drawn to a mysterious mansion a little too lively for her liking. The haunted house set up is just the background for high camp, with Jessica Chastain in a villainous turn as a spinster jealous of Edith. Think your average Joan Crawford flick overwhelmed by special effects.

142

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM

Disregard the terrible Ashton Kutcher biopic of the same name. Steve Jobs is a deeper, more thoughtful approach to the life and times of the founder of Apple, with budget and talent to boot. Michael Fassbender portrays the man in question, a complex loner with the rare gift of vision. His uncompromising character made it both hard to deal with, but also brought us the future. Scripted

by Aaron Sorkin (The West Wing, The Social Network) and directed by Danny Boyle (Slumdog Millionaire, 127 Hours), expect fireworks, both verbal and visual.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JoRGE IGNACIo CASTILLo Jorge is a journalist and film critic with over 15 years of experience in publications across North America. He is also a budding filmmaker with two shorts under his belt, and a feature documentary in production. He is a member of the Vancouver Film Critics Circle since 2013.

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

Releasing date: October 9

Surrey’s Largest Furniture showroom

KAPIL

#101-13147 76 AVE SURREY, BCDARPAN | PH: 604-572-5553 143 TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

INDIANS GLOBAL INDIANS GLOBAL INDIANS GLOBAL INDIANS GLOBAL INDIANS GLOBAL INDIANS GLOBAL INDIANS GLOBAL INDI

GLOBAL

INDIANS

Q&a

With raman What inspires you to play the cello or perform?

I strive to be in the zone where I am at one with the music. This is a mental space where I am just riding the wave of the music, and my body is, without cerebral instruction, a perfect servant to the music. When this happens, there are no blocks I can communicate freely with my colleagues on stage, and can effortlessly respond to them.

And when we soar together, the piece comes alive. That joy of communication, and of flight, is what inspires me, and takes me to the next concert.

What are your future plans?

i n t ro D u C i n G

RAMAN

RAMAKRISHNAN

By Petrina D'Souza

N

ew York-based cellist Raman Ramakrishnan started cello lessons at the age of seven. “I always focused on the cello, perhaps because it was often the largest instrument in the group,” says the talented musician currently a member of the Horszowski Trio with violinist Jesse Mills and pianist Rieko Aizawa.

Horszowski Trio was formed in 2011.

The trio has performed across the United States, India, Japan, and in Hong Kong, and records for Bridge Records.

As a former founding member of

144

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

the Daedalus Quartet, Ramakrishnan won the grand prize at the 2001 Banff International String Quartet Competition (BISQC). With the quartet, he has performed coast-to-coast in the United States and Canada, in Japan, Hong Kong, and Panama, and across Europe. “We were lucky enough to win the BISQC, in our first year of existence, and that effectively launched our career,” says the cellist who plays a Neapolitan cello made

by Vincenzo Jorio in 1837.

He has given solo recitals in New York, Boston, Seattle, and Washington, D.C., and has performed

DARPAN

TM

My future plans mostly involve my trio. We are embarking on some new recording projects with Bridge Records, and are contemplating recording, in the next year or two, the complete piano trios of Robert Schumann.

His music turbulent and serene, dark and light, always strangely beautiful seems to chamber music at Caramoor, at Bargemusic, with the Chicago Chamber Musicians, at the Aspen, Bard, Charlottesville, Four Seasons, Kingston, Lincolnshire (UK), Marlboro, Mehli Mehta (India), Oklahoma Mozart, and Vail Music Festivals. As a guest member of Yo-Yo Ma’s Silk Road Ensemble, he has performed in Cairo, Egypt and in New Delhi and Agra, India.

That was the first time Ramakrishnan performed in India. After that, he has performed several times in Mumbai as part of Sangat, a chamber music festival held every December. In 2013, the Horszowski Trio performed in Bangalore and Mumbai. “One of the things I like most about India is its ability to take whatever you throw at it. India, which itself is a collection of different cultures, is constantly absorbing Europe, the Far East, Africa, and America, mix-

fit our temperament as a trio. The next season takes us to concerts all over the country to California, Washington, D.C., Florida, and New Hampshire, to name a few.

What advice would you give youngsters or those who wish to follow your path?

It is important for us all to make no compromises about our career path, at least when we are young we get no second chance at life.

If things don’t work out, then we need to re-evaluate, but we should always first try to follow our hearts.

For those interested in chamber music, it’s important to surround yourselves with like-minded people, and to keep track of the people with whom you have a special musical connection. Going to summer chamber music festivals is a great way to do this.

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

I know from watching my father that immigrants can have all sorts of difficulties breaking into another culture. So whenever any immigrant is able to rise above a society’s distrust of the “other” and make valuable contributions to his adopted homeland, I think it speaks of his courage and strength of character. ing them up, and transforming them into something uniquely Indian,” shares Ramakrishnan.

He loves the vibrancy and colour of India. “It always takes me a few days to get used to the sensory overload.

I like drifting around the streets of Mumbai I never know what will be around the next corner.”

Ramakrishnan is an artist member of the Boston Chamber Music Society, and is on the faculties of Columbia University and the Bard College Conservatory of Music. “I feel lucky that I have been able to make a career out of something that really excited me as a child. Playing chamber music certainly is not the most lucrative thing to do, but it has its own intangible rewards: the joy of spontaneous communication between players, and the satisfaction of being able to transport an audience to a different place, at least for a little while,” he sums up.

12845 96 Ave. Surrey, BC 778-395-6060 King’s Cross Shopping Centre 7488 King George Surrey, BC 604-593-5130

ZERO DOLLARS. AMAZING PICTURES.

Khalsa Business Centre 8388 128th St. Surrey, BC 604-507-1234 Scottsdale Centre 7031 120th St. Delta, BC 604-507-5566 Brick Yard Station 17455 56 Ave. Surrey, BC 778-574-1212 Mt Lehman Crossing 2871 Livingstone Ave Abbotsford, BC 604-853-1344 Sevenoaks Shopping Centre 32900 South Fraser Way Abbotsford, BC 604-850-7721

LG G3

$0

Plaza 88 800 Carnarvon St. New Westminster, BC 604-553-2208

with 2-year Tab24 agreement on select Fido Pulse plans* TM

Capilano Mall 935 Marine Dr. North Vancouver, BC 604-770-2771

• 13 MP quick focus camera • Large 5.5" Quad HD display

Yaletown Vancouver, BC 778-321-5000 Orchard Park Shopping Centre 2271 Harvey Ave. Kelowna, BC 250-762-5577

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

145

Subject to change without notice. *With new activation on a 2-year Tab24 agreement on a Smart Fido Pulse plan. A device savings recovery fee applies in accordance with your service agreement. If, for any reason, you downgrade to a lower tier plan category Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle during your term, then you will be charged a one-time price plan downgrade fee as set out in your service agreement. TM Fido and related names & logos are trademarks used under licence. © 2015 Fido Solutions

By Kelly BensoN

SEP-OC TOBER 2 015

HOROSCOPE ALL SIGNS: The Sun passes through Virgo into Libra as the season shifts from summer to autumn. The scales of Libra symbolize the balance between equal day and equal night, and mark the halfway point of the astrological year. A number of celestial shifts are occurring, indicating shifts to our psyches and our unique soul paths. Stern Saturn, which takes 29 years to do a rotation around Sun (spending two and a half years in each sign), makes its full transition into Sagittarius on September 17 and will remain there until December 2017. We all had a taste of this earlier in 2015. Significant shifts that you began to feel the influence of will take firm root now. Jupiter, which takes 12 years to do a rotation around the sun (spending approximately one year in each sign), recently made a transition from Leo to Virgo (on August 11). The Virgo essence pushes us to utilize our creativity (realized during its transit in Leo) and turn it into real world results. Hurray! Our productivity increases and we derive more meaning from our work and efforts. Alas, Mercury does its third and final retrograde in Libra of 2015 from September 17 to October 9. This can make communications, contracts (formal and informal), and relationships subject to confusion or misunderstandings.

Patience and understanding is key (you can always ask someone to clarify what they mean too).

ARIES (MARch 21-ApRIl 19) You’re entering a powerful time of strategic growth, Aries. During the previous two and half years, significant transformations occurred, especially in areas related to your personal values.

Some in-depth soul-searching has resulted in increased maturity and wisdom and the self. Congratulations! Now is the time to take that knowledge and share it with others. You’re attracted to topics and issues dealing with higher consciousness such as religion, philosophy and belief systems, as well as psychological and cultural observations. Practical studies might also be on the table like specialized training or attaining a certification to support your career. A new job and a better work environment are likely now.

You’re eager to take care of yourself so you can perform better.

Lucky days: September 1, 28, 29 October 25, 26 Challenging days: September 14, 15 October 11, 12, 13

TAuRuS (ApRIl 20-MAy 20) Opportunities to learn more about oneself lay at every curve in the road of life, Taurus. At this particular juncture, you’re encouraged to look at matters around financial security and financial interdependence. Being able to create and maintain a stable environment are key needs for your sign. Consider the resources you have that give you a sense of security, as well as where your resources are intertwined with others. Issues around ‘what is mine’ and ‘what is theirs’ will come to light now. This ranges from the psychic realms, to the emotional, the practical, and the material world (powerful stuff, hey?).

Relationships in all their forms are blessed and encouraged.

Romantic connections that begin now may have a ‘fated’ feel to them.

Lucky days: September 2, 3, 30 October 1, 27, 28 Challenging days: September 16, 17, 18 October 14, 15

GEMInI (MAy 21-JunE 20) Saturn will be sitting opposite your sign for the next two years, Gemini. This celestial influence can create a certain pressure that your freedom-loving nature might disagree with. Just be patient, and everything will be OK. You’re getting back to the basics of who you really are (I know, I know…You get bored easily. But what could be more fascinating than learning more about yourself?). True tests of wisdom, strength and courage are never easy. Try to avoid circumstances and people that put undue strain on you. Practices that allow you to get in touch with your heart are where it’s at! You’re getting to know yourself at a core level as you rebuild your foundation. These efforts will pay-off big time over the next seven years.

Lucky days: September 4, 5, 6 October 2, 3, 29, 30 Challenging days: September 19, 20 October 16, 17, 18 SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

CanCer (June 21-July 22) You’re paving the way for a significant career peak in 2018, Cancer. You’ve got your head in the game and you’re not about to be distracted. Hunkering down and getting the work done in the trenches is what matters. Lifestyle habits to do with your physical health, day-to-day activities, and overall routines are shifting now. You’re keen to take better care of yourself, so any practices that are detrimental or certainly not serving you, are about to be changed. This will not happen overnight (no yo-yo dieting). It’s about making incremental adjustment over the next two years that become part of the new you. Be open to taking some classes or workshops, you’re eager to learn and try new techniques.

Lucky days: September 7, 8 October 4, 5, 31 Challenging days: September 21, 22, 23 October 19, 20

leo (July 23-aug. 22) This is a powerful season for personal growth, Leo. You’re building your stamina and soon to be hitting your stride.

You were forced to make a lot of adjustments in the last few years. In particular, responsibilities around home and family were on the table (certain relationships may have even changed dramatically). You’re expanding beyond your current foundation with strength and determination.

You’re learning more about yourself and how to best express truly yourself and your talents. Any and all kinds of creative endeavour you’ve been considering is about to be sculpted into something you can really work with (write that book!). We also see a nice spike in your earnings throughout the winter and well into 2016. Saw-weet!

Lucky days: September 9, 10 October 6, 7, 8 Challenging days: September24, 25 October 21, 22

Virgo (aug. 23-Sept. 22) This is a critical time of development, both at home and on the career front, Virgo. Responsibilities and circumstances from the outside world are challenging you to be more accountable now. While this may be frustrating at times, think of it as some tough love from the universe. You’re innate ability to work hard will shine, and you’re going to see some juicy rewards. It’s key that you tap into your patience.

Ultimately you’re building better foundations for yourself and better relationships with others. New relationships that begin now might be more serious or with added responsibilities. Loving energy put towards your home, or wherever it is you deem to be your sacred space (perhaps your bedroom or your office) will nurture your productivity.

Lucky days: September 11, 12, 13 October 9, 10 Challenging days: September 26, 27 October 23, 24

libra (Sept. 23-oCt. 22) You’re moving into a powerful time of releasing yourself from unconscious patterns and emotional habits, Libra.

Take the time you need to retreat from the grind of life to reflect and consider things. A few evenings on your own to meditate on where and how you want to grow psychically and spiritually is in order. Throughout 2016 you will see these changes manifest on the physical plane. You are answering a call deep within yourself for healings and healthier connections with others. Improvements to your overall well-being (including health) and your relationships are brewing. This is an excellent time for increased training or education that serves you and your career. You will impress yourself with your stamina and dedication.

Lucky days: September 14, 15 October 11, 12, 13 Challenging days: September 1, 28, 29 October 25, 26

SCorpio (oCt. 23-noV. 21) You’ve taken major steps to create a more solid foundation under your feet, Scorpio. Congratulations! A cautious courage is your mantra now. You’re actively doing practices to develop your awareness and learning what’s really important to you. Cash flow or the pleasures in life that

money can buy might be stretched thin over the next two years. This is occurring to help you get clear on what is really important - like spending time with loved ones, instead of at the mall (not that I’m saying you’re a shopaholic, but you get my drift, right?). A little penny-pinching didn’t hurt anyone.

Meanwhile, Jupiter strengthens your spirit and bringing a more expansive viewpoint to any dilemmas you may have. So your problem-solving skills are tops.

Lucky days: September 16, 17, 18 October 14, 15 Challenging days: September 2, 3, 30 October 1, 27, 28

SagittariuS (Nov 22-Dec 21) Increased responsibilities and hard work are on the table, Sagittarius (wait, don’t run!). Yes, you might feel a bit discouraged, but take heart. You are about to make some substantial, worthwhile changes to your life (this is a good thing). You’re getting clear on relationships and career matters that align with your true self. You’re moving towards a stronger future and you need to build that on solid ground. The more you resist or suppress a truth, the harder it gets. So take a deep breath and acknowledge it. You come out of this chapter with a greater understanding of yourself, plus increased maturity and wisdom. Surround yourself with people who encourage you to succeed, because that’s exactly what you’re going to do.

Lucky days: September 19, 20 October 16, 17, 18 Challenging days: September 4, 5, 6 October 2, 3, 29, 30

capricorN (Dec. 22-JaN. 19) Beginning this fall and for the next three years life goes through a lot of shifting, Capricorn. You’re letting go of circumstances or situations that no longer serve you. Some of these endings are intentional, such as ending a relationship where you realize your needs are not being met. Some adjustments are beyond your control and that’s where it can feel very uncomfortable. Should the latter occur, consider if those circumstances were truly supporting you to grow or perhaps stagnation was occurring.

You’re getting ready for an incredibly powerful time beginning in 2018. In the meantime, the decks are being cleared to make way for new starts. You’re preparing for positive changes and significant achievements to your career and your station in life.

Lucky days: September 21, 22, 23 October 19, 20 Challenging days: September 7, 8 October 4, 5, 31

aquariuS (JaN. 20-Feb. 18) There have been a lot of adjustments to your life in the last few years, Aquarius. This may have manifested as a marital change, a change of profession or at least to your title, or around your domestic scene and your role within your family and community.

While the weight of responsibility may still sit on your shoulders, the benefits of these adjustments are starting to blossom (celebrations to follow soon too). Profound healings and a greater awareness make you a force to be reckoned with. Relationships with others, especially marital and business partners alike, can grow extensively this next year. You are likely to benefit from the wealth of a partner, family members, and friends. Not too shabby!

Lucky days: September 24, 25 October 21, 22 Challenging days: September 9, 10 October 6, 7, 8

piSceS (Feb. 19-March 20) This is an important time for you, Pisces. Emotional recovery and psychic restoration are your key themes. You’re in the process of pulling-off the rose-coloured glasses and taking a clear inventory of the world you’re living in. This is one of those times where it might feel harder before it gets better, but then you’re going to feel so much stronger. This is going to take some courage, so take the space you need to reflect. As we progress into 2016, healings in all your relationships will occur. Why? Because you’re healing yourself. New relationships that begin now might have a sincerity and spiritual curiosity about them. You’re eager to learn and the people you are attracting into your world are doing the same.

Lucky days: September 26, 27 October 23, 24 Challenging days: September 11, 12, 13 October 9, 10

146 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 TM

Celebrating 30 Years!

DARPAN

TM SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

147

By Petrina D’Souza

CANADIAN IMMIGRANTS

SHARE THEIR STORIES

Biggest obstacle faced so far in Canada:

he Meet t

R A M U K ly Fami

“A beautiful and enjoyable place, friendly and welcoming people, and appealing lifestyle and environment are some of the things that we love most about this country.”

Photo Courtesy: Dinesh & Ramya

Getting Here: Seeking better work opportunities, Dinesh Kumar and his wife Ramya Dinesh migrated to Canada from India in 2011. Their first impression of the country on reaching Vancouver, B.C. was a pleasant one, as they saw lots of greenery around and parks within every kilometre. Besides, they also found the cleanliness of the country as an attractive feature.

On arrival, Dinesh and Ramya lived in a hotel, eventually moving to a rented house. It

148

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

One of the obstacles we face here is the long waiting time for medical appointments. Also, owning a house in Vancouver is a dream, but it’s mostly out of reach for new immigrants.

Dinesh Kumar works as a Software Analyst at Telus Ramya Dinesh works as an Immigration Consultant at Fast Immigration Inc.

took the couple about six months to settle down and get accustomed to the surroundings and people around. “Once we moved here, our first challenge was understanding the local culture and adjusting to the weather,” recalls Dinesh.

Once they overcame that obstacle, the next one was that of finding a job. Based on their experience, the couple feel that finding a job matching to your niche skill set is difficult in a city like Vancouver. “Knowing people and having references within an organization makes the job easy. Searching a job on your own will take time,” shares Dinesh, who worked as a Software Analyst in Bengaluru, India, before moving here.

The couple has had a pleasant stay in Vancouver since the day they moved here.

Though they miss their family and friends back home, they enjoy living in Canada and love this city and its weather. “It’s a beautiful city and the people are very friendly,” says Ramya.

Praising Canada further, they believe it to

DARPAN

TM

Resolutions made for yourself or family: To live a healthy life, serve as a role model, learn something daily, do good investments, help others, and stay connected with family, friends, people and the nature.

Advice for immigrants: You need to have an open mind and respect for local culture and people. It will take time to settle down once you move here; however, have patience while trying to make this place your home.

Memories of Homeland: Memories of the buzzing streets, vibrant festivals, iridescent clothing, and food, would almost obsessively invade our mind.

Even though technology has allowed us to somewhat fulfill these above mentioned yearnings, it is never enough.

be the most admired country in the world. “A beautiful and enjoyable place, friendly and welcoming people, and appealing lifestyle and environment are some of the things that we love most about this country,” says the couple summing up.

DAVE DHIMAN CONTRACTOR SALES

MANVIR MANGAT SALES COUNTER REPRESENTATIVE

DARREN KRUSE

JAY SIDHU

CONTRACTOR SALES

CUSTOMER SERVICE / FORKLIFT OPERATOR

DELIVERING THE BEST ALWAYS “Whether you are building a dog house, building your dream home, or

TimberStrand LSL headers, beams, columns, and rim board.

starting a townhouse development, Country Lumber has the products and staff to help you,” says Country Lumber co-owner Glenn

Customer service is a top priority for Country Lumber - and you are

Jenkins proudly, about the company that is currently one of the

bound to recognize that right from the moment you are assisted when

largest full service lumber yards for the contracting and building

you enter the store till your project is complete. “Our team of technicians

community.

can draw up your engineered floors and beams. Our sales team can provide sharp pricing for your project and our delivery drivers can crane your material

Country Lumber started in May 1980 as a small family-run lumber and

exactly where you need it,” shares Jenkins.

hardware business servicing the Langley community. Thirty-five years later, it has grown to be a leading force in the sales of building

Shedding light on some of the other features of Country Lumber, Jenkins talks

supplies in B.C.’s Lower Mainland. “Our large fleet of trucks routinely

about the company’s team of technicians and experienced sales people. “Our

deliver from North Vancouver to Chilliwack and are often spotted

team of technicians pride themselves on saving you money through cost

delivering products to job sites in Whistler, Merritt and other locations

effective floor designs, and also our team of experienced sales staff - many of

in the B.C. interior,” says Jenkins.

them with over 20 years of knowledge in the construction industry,” says Jenkins, further adding that their Contract Sales Representative, Dilbagh Singh

Beyond lumber and plywood, Country Lumber comprises of a wide

Dhiman (Dave), also speaks Hindi and Punjabi to assist Indian customers.

range of products. “We also can assist with doors and mouldings, insulation and drywall, power tools and paint, and siding and roofing,”

Country Lumber is dedicated to delivering high quality, sustainable products at

says Jenkins, adding that with every purchase you can also earn Air

competitive prices. With some of their client relationships going back over 30

Miles.

years, the company’s dedication to exceptional service encourages customers to come back year after year. “It is our goal to set ourselves above our

This building supply company is the leader in engineered wood

competition through our service, competitive pricing, and our wide range of

products - with a full line of Truss Joist engineered wood products,

products. This helps us to keep our customers happy and brings them back to

including TJI joists, Microllam LVL headers and beams, PSL and

our store for future purchases,” says Jenkins in conclusion.

LUMBER TOOLS & HARDWARE DELIVERIES VALUE ADDED SERVICES

For assistance or a quote, contact

Dilbagh Singh Dhiman (Dave) at 604-835-1455 or Darren Kruse at

604-835-1073

22538 FRASER HIGHWAY, LANGLEY, BC, V2Z 2T8 | WWW.COUNTRYLUMBER.CA SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015 DARPAN TM Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle 149

PHONE: 1 -604- 533-4447 | TOLL FREE: 1-866-533-4447

150

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2015

Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

DARPAN

TM