Darpan sep 2014

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014

Higher Education Is it Worth it?

STROKE

THE

SILENT

And Surrey’s

New Mayor is….

Kareena Kapoor

Of Sugar & Spice

Trevor Linden

The return of Captain Canuck

LiSa RAY

STORY

A Cross Cultural Phenomenon SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014

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Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

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e can feel the excitement palpating in the South Asian community as DARPAN Magazine’s 5th Annual Extraordinary Achievement Awards approaches.

Taking place on September 19th, our audiences can expect a lavish and grand evening at the awards night this year. Recognizing the achievements of 10 inspirational individuals, the Awards offer a unique platform for the South Asian community to gather and celebrate the successes of these extraordinary people. This year is doubly special for us as it marks the 10th anniversary for Darpan Magazine.

For this issue, we have the lovely Lisa Ray, internationally acclaimed actress and cancer awareness advocate. Our spotlights feature outstanding individuals like Anoop Virk, the 20-year-old who assisted in establishing a school in Zambia, in an effort to create gender equality. Jason DaSilva also inspires as he did not allow his diagnosis of multiple sclerosis from pursuing his passion for filmmaking.

The Darpan Awards not only honour extraordinary achievements, they do so against a backdrop of glitz and glamour. Similarly, this issue is quite a star-studded affair, with an exclusive interview with the Bollywood superstar, Kareena Kapoor-Khan and former Canucks Captain Trevor Linden who is now President of Hockey Operations.

Foodies will also be thrilled with delicious recipes from the renowned celebrity chef Maneet Chauhan.

We also have a range of thought provoking features between these covers. The education feature weighs the pros and cons of higher education while our politics feature brings readers up to date about the upcoming Surrey Municipal Elections which will usher in a new Mayor for the first time in 9 years. Lastly, as summer comes to an end, our thoughts turn to fall and the lifestyle features celebrate the season with fall trends, autumn beauty tips, Halloween movies and fall-inspired activities around town.

Have a great fall and we look forward to seeing you at the Darpan Awards!

.

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

Gurvinder S. Hundal

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 PUBLISHERS

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Gurvinder S. Hundal Ramneek S. Dhillon

Aman Grewal Ashley Stephens Benjamin Yong Garima Goswami Glen Konorowski Jorge Ignacio Castillo Kavita Shyam Kelly Benson Mormei Zanke Paul Gill Renu Singh-Joseph Sabrina Pannu Saira Hayre Seema Chandra Shanel Khaliq Steven Purewal Tarana Rana Wally Hild

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Renu Singh-Joseph ONLINE EDITOR Sumesh Sharma ASSISTANT EDITOR Garima Goswami Tarana Rana ART DIRECTOR & GRAPHIC DESIGNER Vinay Giridhar MANAGER, MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Junita Thakorlal

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Ramneek S. Dhillon

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 2014 DARPAN Publication Ltd. All rights reserved. Publications sales agreement no. 41116014 ADVERTISING AND SALES Gurvinder S. Hundal Ramneek S. Dhillon PHOTOGRAPHY A Master Media (Payal Video) Amrit Photography Surya Studio Mauricio Rivera Photography AAA Video JC Images Mahi Photo Studio Chandra Bodalia Sunny Images

COVER CREDITS Cover: Lisa Ray Photo:Joy Datta CONTACT Tel: 604-572-0199 Email: info@darpanmagazine.com 340-8140, 128 St. Surrey BC. V3W-1R1

ISSN: ISSN 1920-4000

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CONTENTS

32 2014 SEP/OCTOBER

COVER

138

STORY

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08 READERS REACTION

138 BOLLYWOOD

Movie Review & Preview

10 DARPAN'S 10 Q&A with Ajay Bhatt

SPOTLIGHTS

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12 Jason DaSilva

82 FASHION PAGES

16 Daksh Kubba

94 HEALTH

20 Tanraj Sohal

Stroke: The Silent Killer

56 SALUTES

Steps to Fitness

Sabharwal Law, Skilled Immigrant InfoCentre, Pink Orchid Studio, Kwantlen Polytechnic University

102 BEAUTY

88 NEWS IN PICTURES

104 STYLE

142 GLOBAL INDIANS

144 HOROSCOPE

Autumn Must Haves An Unexpected Fall Fashion Icon

106 RECIPES

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110 TRAVEL

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Fear of Fall

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140 HOLLYWOOD

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120 WEDDING Pricilla & Roy

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132 TECH

Gadget Trends

FEATURES 24 SPECIAL FEATURE And Surrey's New Mayor is...

44 SPECIAL FEATURE

Higher Education - Worth it or a Waste?

52 FEATURE

124

Homework Help Tips for Parents

60 SPECIAL FEATURE The Punjabi Soldier: Part 2

68 EXCLUSIVE

Trevor Linden: The Presidential Return of Captain Canuck

74 FEATURE

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

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Does Your Personality Work for You?

134 EXCLUSIVE

Kareena Kapoor: Of Sugar & Spice DARPAN TM

AUTO REVIEW

134

122 ACURA MDX 124 FIAT 500C Lounge 126 MAZDA 6 128 BMW I3 Hatchback

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eaRdeaectrions’s If you would like to share your thoughts about an article in this issue, then please feel free to share any feedback or commentary. You can email at garima@darpanmagazine.com

Arvind Gupta: Great Cover Story! I was aware about Arvind Gupta's accomplishment of becoming the first South Asian President of UBC but learning about his other achievements in detail was incredible. It was a very inspiring piece. - Gagan Singh, Vancouver

Re: Arvind Gupta: Arvind Gupta is an inspirational figure not only for the South Asian community but for the Canadian society as a whole. We are sure he will take this prestigious university to even more greater heights. – Assistant Editor

Auto Review: Being a tech and car enthusiast I particularly enjoy reading the tech and auto segment. I'm noticing that you are featuring five auto reviews at times and that is great.

-Jake Walters

Re: Auto Review We are glad you enjoy this section Jake. Our Auto writers Glen and Benjamin work hard to provide us with these reviews and they are amazing. -Assistant Editor

Punjabi Soldier: DARPAN Salutes: I have been reading this recent section in your magazine for some time now and I must say it is a great initiative. Their achievements despite of the odds and determination to bring a change in society are laudable. Sadly, we hear a lot of negative stories but this section is very refreshing and motivating.

-Simi Bhatia, Vancouver

Re: DARPAN Salutes Thank you Simi. There are so many stories in India that go unnoticed and remain untold due to the heavy coverage of day to day stories. Although that is important, we realized that it would be great to stage and laud the efforts of such great personalities that are fighting for others and making their lives better. -Assistant Editor

This was a very informative piece. It's great to learn these unknown historical facts and the contributions of Punjabi soldiers in war. I must say the layout was very intriguing. Looking forward to the next piece!

-Parm Jaiswal, Coquitlam

Re: Punjabi Soldier Steven did a great job on the article. His collection of the historic illustrations depicted in the article along with his knowledge on the work is absolutely commendable.

Our graphic designer, Vinay, did an excellent job in laying out the story too. In the next edition Steven will continue the Punjabi soldier's journey while brining in the Canadian connection and other interesting aspects.

-Assistant Editor

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A

jay V. Bhatt, is known for his contributions to the world of technology in the form of his co-invention, the USB (Universal Serial Bus).

Currently holding 32 patents in the area of Platform architecture, Bhatt has stamped a profound impact in the world of technology and is working towards making the technology more user-friendly.

6 Would you say that the USB is your biggest achievement?

That is one that is most known to an average person.

I have had other inventions that have had much bigger impact to the computers. They are all inside the computer, so an average user doesn't really know about those things. In terms of the computer, my other inventions have been as successful as the USB but by far the USB is the most known and probably most used by an average user in their day to day work. I must say that all these things that I worked on and developed, I have enjoyed great partnership from colleagues at Intel in an industry so I can't really take all the credit that is attributed to me.

I truly believe in team work and I think a lot of people have contributed to this.

1 Can you tell us a bit about your history?

I was born in Bangalore. My mother was from Bangalore and my father grew up in Gujarat. He was a professor in a university in a city called Baroda.

So I grew up in Baroda, also known as Varodara.

My wife was born in Uganda and I met her while I was in Boston at the Indian festival Garba and eventually we got married. We have been married for 31 years now.

7 You are working on a computer that will work all day. Can you tell us more about that?

2 Did you always want to be an engineer?

My dad was an artist, a musician and I was surrounded by people who were liberal arts majors.

I am the only engineer in the family and from a very young age I was the one who would fix things in the house. I was always curious. My inclination was always math, physics, science. So from a very young age I liked fixing things and that led to a career.

Starting from the phones to computers, energy efficiency is very important and we have been looking at architectural enhancements to the computer that would give you performance when you need it but will then go to sleep and conserve the battery. What it does is it results in great battery life savings. One of the other things in making computers more user-friendly is to make them thin and light. When you make computers thin and light, their batteries also have to be light. So we have been making computers thinner, energy efficient and making them run a lot cooler. All the issues are interconnected and that is where my colleagues and I at Intel have been working on.

3 Can you tell me about your journey from the time you left India to the point of becoming a USB co-inventor and holding several patents?

I left India to pursue graduate studies because when I graduated there was not much you could do in terms of computer science. I joined City University of New York because I used to have a text book by a professor who was at the City University of New York and I ended up being a research assistant for him on a project that we worked on. In the summer of 1982, I got summer training in a company in Boston and eventually I ended up joining them to design graphics workstations for printing and then subsequently after finishing that project I was hired to do mini computers and workstations at Wang Laboratories, it doesn't exist anymore but I was there for about seven years. Eventually I got hired by Intel and I joined there as a senior engineer. The whole notion of personal computers was that we are going to take them beyond just the businesses to individual users. At that time not a lot of people used personal computers at home and I saw one of the biggest shortcomings in computers because they were very difficult to use. Even if you wanted to connect a printer it was a tough task. That is where I started thinking about a way to connect the computer that was as easy as plugging your toaster in your AC outlet and that eventually became the USB. 4 How did your peers react when you shared the idea of inventing the USB?

Most of the people did not quite understand what this was all about, including my then supervisor.

But then I was able to find a few like minded people throughout the company and eventually we got together pulled together a proposal and convinced management that this was something worth pursuing and this was going to really address

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Ajay V. Bhatt INTEL FELLOW, PLATFORM ENGINEERING GROUP, CHIEF PLATFORM ARCHITECT, PC CLIENT GROUP

on the pain points that an average user would have.

5 You collaborated with Compaq, DEC, IBM, Intel, Microsoft, NEC and Nortel to deliver the USB. What was your vision in inviting these companies on such a project?

We did a lot of work at Intel before we even went out. Before we went out, our proposal was very much complete so the major things that you see in the USB were decided by then in the form of proposal. However with things of this nature where many manufacturers would use that technology in their own applications, we felt that it was important to be inclusive and made the USB much bigger than just attaching the printer or keyboard or a mouse. We had this grand vision of having a very ubiquitous interconnect or interface to the computer and hence we actually went out and pitched our ideas. We offered to partner with everybody and anybody that was willing to work with us at that point. These companies were the ones that showed interest and they made some investments in improving our proposal, providing useful feedback and becoming co-developers of this specification.

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8 What are your interests?

I am very passionate about photography. I like to go out and shoot pictures whenever I get the opportunity and also improve my skills. Every opportunity that I get I can pair photography with my other interest and that is travel. I travel extensively for my work as well as for my own interests and every time I go on a trip to an exotic place my camera always goes with me.

9 What do you see the future of USB as?

USB, just as we speak, is improving. We recently announced a new specification. One of the major pain points of the USB is plugging it correctly, but now you wouldn't have to think about which end is up or which end is down. Next year's computers and beyond, will have this new version of USB, it is going to go significantly faster than the latest version of USB. Today you can charge your phone with USB, as we go forward you should be able to charge your laptop. I can see the USB continuing for the next decade or two.

10

What current projects are you working on?

I am always working on some new things. I have done a lot of work on this new USB that will be out soon. We are just concluding and working towards the productization of that. I am working on an exciting touch technology. This touch technology for bigger screens I hope will revolutionize the way we interact with computers.

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Seven years and 3600 hours of footage later, When I Walk was released in 2013.

Hailed by critics as a triumph of the human spirit and a universal tale of perseverance, the autobiographical documentary spans seven years of DaSilva’s life after his diagnosis and sheds some light on what it is like to live with MS.

By Tarana Rana

Jason DaSilva: Overcoming the Odds A diagnosis of multiple sclerosis didn’t stop Jason DaSilva from

A

t 35, Jason DaSilva has definitely carved a name for himself as a filmmaker. With numerous award winning short films already under his belt, including Olivia’s Puzzle which qualified for an Academy Award in 2003, his most recent documentary won the Hot Docs Award at the Canadian International Film Festival last year. When I Walk is an inspiring tale of a young man’s admirable resilience and inner strength in the face of adversity – his own.

When he was 25, DaSilva was diagnosed with Multiple sclerosis (MS). Described as an unpredictable and disabling disease of the central nervous system by the Multiple Sclerosis

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Society of Canada, MS has a number of symptoms, including difficulty in walking, deteriorating vision and loss of muscle control. In some cases, symptoms take many years to manifest but this was not true for DaSilva. When vacationing with his family in 2006, he fell down on the beach and could not get back up; his legs had stopped functioning.

“When I first fell, I realised how much worse the MS had gotten,” DaSilva says. “It completely changed the process of filmmaking for me. [I could] no longer carry a camera and shoot myself.”

However, DaSilva has not let his diagnosis stop him from pursuing his passion for filmmaking.

“Now I have others to do those things [like

PHOTO: JASON DASILVA, wHeNIwALk.cOm

DARPAN SPOTLIGHT shooting], and I am on camera more often. It’s like a different genre of documentary filmmaking,” says DaSilva. After his discouraging fall, DaSilva made the decision to place his physical deterioration under the lens instead of ignoring it. Seven years and 3600 hours of footage later, When I Walk was released in 2013. Hailed by critics as a triumph of the human spirit and a universal tale of perseverance, the autobiographical documentary spans seven years of DaSilva’s life after his diagnosis and sheds some light on what it is like to live with MS. The film also highlights his relationship with his mother and chronicles his marriage to his co-producer Alice Cook, whom he met at an MS support group in 2009. The couple now have an 18-month-old son.

“It was very difficult to tell my own story,” DaSilva admits. “I got exhausted after about the second year...There were many times I just wanted to give up.” In his director’s statement of the film, DaSilva also writes how challenging it was for him to relinquish the camera to his family and friends and become the subject of his own film. Having been a meticulous shooter with an eye for beautiful cinematography, DaSilva shifted gears and focused on capturing emotion and compelling human moments.

Born in Dayton, Ohio, DaSilva moved to Vancouver when he was 14. He completed his undergraduate and masters at Emily Carr University, before relocating to New York City, where he currently resides. He mentions how the fast-paced city slowed down for him after his diagnosis and he could no longer keep up with friends. “Slowly but surely, the world that I knew started moving at a snail's pace,” DaSilva shares.

As his MS progressed, DaSilva went from using a cane to a motorized scooter to get around. Facing mobility challenges in New York, he was inspired to develop AXS Maps, an online tool that identifies wheelchair and scooter friendly places. This crowdsourced platform allows users to download the application and share reviews on the accessibility of restaurants, businesses and other destinations in cities throughout North America. “It really helps people with disabilities like me, and allows for a more inclusive world,” says DaSilva.

This 35-year-old still faces daily difficulties with his condition and he must come to terms with it everyday. “Every morning when I wake, I have to remind myself that I am living in a different body that what I grew up with,” he says. But he remains optimistic about the future and powers on ahead with his film projects. His next film will be a feature set in Goa, India, that will be shot over the next two years. “I hope to move it into production in the next year, fingers crossed!” DaSilva says.

DaSilva’s story is a heroic example of persevering despite the odds. Through his deeply personal biopic, When I Walk, DaSilva shares a journey that is heart-wrenching at times, frustrating at others, but it has an underlying message everyone can learn from – of not giving up, of weathering through the uncertainties of life and triumphing over your challenges.

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DARPAN SPOTLIGHT

At a young age of 20, that directly empowers the assisted in establishing a primary school and instilling the values of gender

By Shanel Khaliq

ANOOP VIRK: STRIVING TO

EMPOWER & INSPIRE

“Hello”

may be an everyday word for us but a young girl from Vancouver is making efforts to ensure that homeless people from the city’s Downtown Eastside are also able to rekindle the warmth of this word once again in their lives.

The 20-year-old Anoop Virk is the mastermind behind H.E.L.L.O (Helping Everyone Locate Loved Ones), a project that helps residents of the Downtown Eastside reconnect with their friends and family across the country. This project has helped 450 people rediscover their lost loved ones.

Virk is now an inspiration for her ten-year-old brother and countless others who want to make a difference in their community. For her, this is a source of pride.

"My biggest accomplishment would have

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DARPAN

to be seeing my ten-year-old brother become a compassionate and caring individual. I love him being interested in my projects, and seeing his character form, from going down to the Downtown Eastside to help the homeless, to collecting his toys for me to bring down to Africa. From my household to beyond, it's wonderful to see others become inspired from what I love to do, and continue the work, as it becomes a ripple effect of positivity.”

Born and raised in Vancouver, Virk completed her French immersion dogwood degree in high school, and was enrolled in the Douglas-SFU Dual degree program.

She then completed her Associates of Arts in Intercultural and International Studies degree at Douglas College, and is currently majoring in International Studies at Simon Fraser University to complete her BA. TM

Her latest endeavor is Project L.O.V.E (Letting Our Voices Empower) which focuses on education, gender equality, and giving girls equal access to opportunities.

On her trip to Zambia this summer, she started working to build Project L.O.V.E under which she is hoping to establish a primary community school in rural Zambia. The project envisages to create a platform for gender equality in the education system for both girls and boys, thus giving vulnerable children access to education, income generating skills, providing health care, lunch programs, technology, and more.

This school is providing a poverty-struck area with a chance for children to get an education to reach their full potential and give girls the empowerment and equal access to opportunities. On seeing her dream translate into reality Virk seems nothing less than ecstatic.

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“I can't explain the feeling to see a dream become a reality in front of your eyes. When I saw the construction of the bore hole on our land, I broke out into tears, and I couldn't believe that this clean water was going to be accessible for all the children and surrounding areas.”

Her outstanding accomplishments have led her to interact with some of the most influential personalities around the globe such as Ndaba Mandela, Chelsea Clinton, Prince William and Stephen Harper. Virk feels she is blessed to have had such remarkable opportunities but her first and foremost inspiration in life remains her mother. When describing her mother she says, “Her life story is a true inspiration and shows her resilience - she grew up in a small village in India, and via an arranged marriage came to Canada, and soon became a single mother with no money, family, and didn't speak English. Today, she has her Master’s in Education, three national bestselling cookbooks, and hosts two TV shows, she is the best role model.”

This 20-year-old is highly motivated about her future undertakings as well. “I love the path that I'm on, and I don't exactly know where it's going to lead me, but I do know that I'm going to continue my philanthropic work locally and globally, and I am excited to see the progress of those projects, and how they will help people.”

She is also looking forward to her last year at university, and is hoping to attend Law School later. Having attended Vancouver Acting School, Virk says she wants to keep her opportunities and possibilities open. Moreover, she feels it is essential to know what you want and to then be confident about it. For Virk, maintaining a positive stance is essential and staying strong in the face of obstacles is also imperative.

“If you believe in an idea, don't let anyone tell you that you can't do it, the fact that you are trying to make a positive difference is a beautiful mindset, and that's something to already be proud of. Seek out mentors - learn from people who have been on their journey, and learn from their mistakes, and ask for their advice.”

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DARPAN SPOTLIGHT

By Shanel Khaliq

DakSh kubba

THE VOICE

UNITING

BORDERS

By Shanel Khaliq

artistically translating the cultural says is the feature of the music

S

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ufi poetry infused with alternative rock and a tinge of Bollywood; this is usually the style of music that boy bands from the sub-continent produce. But what sets the band Naqsh IPB apart from the rest is that they are producing this music right here in Vancouver and the trio combines talent from both India and Pakistan. Their debut song Saajna reached almost 40,000 YouTube hits and is now all ready to be featured in a Punjabi movie. Following this, the band is all set to release their first ever album featuring ten songs early next year.

Daksh Kubba, the face of the band is also the song writer and lead singer. He was born and raised in Vijay Nagar, a small town in Delhi and moved to Vancouver when he was eighteen to study Actuarial Science and Mathematics at Simon Fraser University.

Growing up, Kubba would sing around the house, do annual shows at school with a group of kids and would write down some poetry. But it was only until he came to Vancouver that he realized he wanted to pursue this seriously.

“That’s when I started dancing, and found that music and performing was what made my soul smile!” he says.

He is to a great extent self-taught, reading online instructions and looking up images of guitar chords since YouTube was not available.

“From that point onwards, playing music, writing songs just became my happy place where I could express my thoughts, escape from materialistic world and go towards something very meaningful, peaceful

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and complete bliss” he recounts.

As he now plans to take up music professionally, Kubba feels his parents are to be credited for providing unconditional support in whatever he wanted to pursue.

“Every step of my life, they have been there to tell me right from wrong, critique my work and provide me feedback, kept me on the right track and not loose myself, inculcated values in me so that I’m not just chasing after a dream but also being responsible towards my family and family duties,” he says.

Kubba is a big supporter of artistically translating the cultural and linguistic similarities of India and Pakistan and this is what he says is the feature of the music produced by Naqsh IPB. “Through our music we would love to inspire people to show love and solidarity and perhaps inspire more collaboration,” he says.

The rest of his inspiration comes from the people in his life including his friends, brothers and relationships that he’s been in. For him it comes naturally, sometimes he wakes up at night to write a song as soon as the idea springs up in his head.

He said that their most memorable performance was at EKTA show by VIBC at the Vogue Theatre earlier this year. The band particularly enjoyed that performance since the theme of VIBC’s EKTA 2014 was aligned with the message of unity that they ardently support.

“Playing the Sufi rock music in front of an Indian and Pakistani audience under one roof, getting them involved and being a part of the performance, it was a really a humbling experience in terms of the nonstop positive feedback and amazing responses we got from the people,” he recounts.

Kubba is positive of more successes in the future and feels that their journey has just started. The band not only plans to release their album in the next year, but is also looking to collaborate with different musicians while adding various different elements to their existing style.

For Kubba, Naqsh IPB is now all set to go out and take over audiences with their music. “We’re stepping out of our studios, and doing more live performances, which we love because there is nothing like being on a stage and feeling the love from the audience” he says.

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DARPAN

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DARPAN SPOTLIGHT

By Shanel Khaliq

TANRAJ

SOHAL YOungeSt CheSS plAYer

S

eventeen year old Tanraj Sohal from Surrey is undoubtly the best chess player in the province. He was crowned the Champion at the BC Chess Championship 2013 and 2014 held in Richmond, BC in February.

However this is only his latest accolade. Sohal has to his credit numerous national and international championships in what seems to be his childhood passion; chess.

Born in Vancouver and raised in Surrey, Sohal attended Coyote Creek Elementary School and the Fleetwood Park Secondary School. His journey towards victory began in 2003 when he was six years old and in the first grade – and wanted to join the school chess club.

Although players had to be in grade 4 and above to participate, the school chess club made an exception for him. Sohal has dominated junior chess in Canada ever since then.

He won the Fraser Valley Regional and BC Provincial Chess Championships in his grade level from 2003 to 2014, a record twelve years in a row. He represented BC at the Canadian Chess Challenge, held over different cities all across Canada from 2003 to 2014. He won the Canadian Chess Challenge (National Championship) in his grade level for a record of nine times.

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It was a wonderful experience as I went on the stage with the Canadian Flag to receive my gold medal. It feels great to do something on an International stage and make your country proud,”

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Sohal also won the 2013 BC Closed Championship in October, 2013 making him the youngest person ever to win this championship in the 98 year history of the tournament.

For Sohal, winning nationally was not enough. He went on to represent Team Canada at the World Youth Chess Championship in Vietnam in 2008, in Greece in 2010 and in Slovenia 2012 and finally the Pan American Youth Chess championship in Peru in 2012.

“It was a wonderful experience as I went on the stage with the Canadian Flag to receive my gold medal. It feels great to do something on an international stage and make your country proud,” he recounts.

Sohal has also travelled across the border to participate in several chess championships in the USA. His most notable win there was the North American Open Championship in Las Vegas in 2011 which secured him a cash prize of $6600.

Besides that he has also won the 2013 Susan Polgar National Open Championship in New Orleans, Louisiana and a $56000 Scholarship for Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri. All these achievements have earned him the National Master Title from the Canadian Chess Federation.

The son of a family physician and scientist, Sohal says he owes his passion for chess to his father who was his first teacher and his family has been quite supportive of his endeavors.

“They have always been there for me and have been a great source of encouragement. As I have said my father is a huge chess fan and felt great pride in my winnings. Chess involves extensive travelling; going to various tournaments nationally and internationally. My family was always there to travel with me to various tournaments all around the world, we had so many memorable trips,” he says.

For Sohal his biggest inspiration is Magnus Carlsen who is the current World Chess Champion from Norway. “I take inspiration from him because he is so young yet he is so talented and strong that it is unbelievable,” he says.

Sohal is now planning to attend Beedie School of Business at Simon Fraser University this fall to pursue his education in business administration, however he says that his journey towards success in chess and winning honors for his country will continue.

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Tanraj recounts.

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POLITICS

BY WALLY HILD

and Surrey’s New

Mayor is….

The BC muniCipal eleCTions in surrey will Be held on novemBer 15, 2014. eligiBle surrey voTers will eleCT one mayor, eighT CounCillors and six sChool TrusTees.

I

n the 1980’s, Australia’s super rock group Men Down Under had a worldwide pop hit called, Who Can It Be Now. Surrey residents might well have this song running through their minds when they cast ballots this November in the municipal

of the workplace and have legislated whistle-blower policies to help in keeping

there will be a new mayor.

Watts will not run for re-election and that of the popular mayor?

Watts says she leaves with deep sense of accomplishment. “When I was elected, I wanted to put public policies in place that would lay the groundwork for future generations and we’ve done that on several fronts. As well, here at city hall, we’ve incorporated a respect

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we have the largest school district in network of sports and recreation facilities

TM

“When I was elected, I wanted to put public policies in place that would lay the groundwork for future generations and we’ve done that on several fronts. As well, here at city hall, we’ve incorporated a respect of the workplace and have legislated whistle-blower policies to help in keeping efficiencies under control.”

- Surrey Mayor Diane Watts continues to welcome new businesses into the community to provide income for local residents.

“We have a strong Economic Development Department that encourages those who want to open their own stores. The Board of Trade and Chamber attract up to 23-hundred new businesses each year and that provides a lot of employment.” She says that Surrey has the lowest residential taxes in the province and the second lowest business taxes. “And another exciting thing we’ve done is initiate The Innovations Boulevard where some 188 health care businesses focusing on clinicians and academia to build this industry because we have a cutting edge facility at Surrey Memorial Hospital”, she adds. “This also includes an aero

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POLITICS “If I’m elected, I will get many more officers on the ground, on bikes and in cars patrolling the city, especially those areas that have highcrime.”

- Former mayor Doug McCallum “I’m also a proponent of the LRT throughout Surrey and we can encourage the building of high-density, affordable living areas so people can access their work quickly and efficiently.”

- Councillor Barinder Rasode

“I don’t think anybody can clean it [crime]up. There’s so much happening each night.

Although I do feel safe in my own home and I’d like to stay here for the rest of my life”.”

“I’m renting right now and would love to buy a home but the prices are staggering and I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to afford a place here.”

- Vinco Macan, Surrey Resident

- Manly Cochrane, Surrey Resident

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POLITICS

“The businesses here should hire more locals. I’ve been trying to find a job in a bank but nobody’s hiring.

Employment opportunities here in Surrey should be improved because I have friends who have to drive to Vancouver to work.”

- Krish Rattan, Surrey Resident

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So what do local residents think?

DARPAN Magazine took to the streets of Surrey and got the following responses.

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POLITICS

am Te n ve ro P A am Te ... n st ir ve F ro ey P rr A u ...

S st ir F Surrey ou!! rYYou fo s lt u es R g r in fo er s iv lt u el es D R g in er iv el D PrioritiesAchieved Achievedfor forOur OurCity City Priorities

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Wally Hild

Call/Text:(604) (604)265-3858 265-3858 Call/Text: SurreyFirst @SurreyFirst SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014 SurreyFirst 30 @SurreyFirst

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

surreyfirst.ca rst.ca surreyfi Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

Hello, Goodbye Lonely

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Wally Hild is a retired radio and TV broadcaster and freelance writer with over 35 years experience as a news anchor and reporter. He’s worked in several cities in Alberta and BC and as a self-confessed “news junkie,� he keeps on top of the political scene in BC and across Canada.

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Lisa Ray Lisa Ray is impossible to pigeonhole.

Internationally acclaimed actress, model, philanthropist, designer, writer, TV host and social activist – the green-eyed beauty wears all these hats and more.

Diagnosed with Multiple myeloma in 2009, Ray fought back and remains a tireless advocate for cancer survivors worldwide.

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A Cross Cultural Phenomenon

Lisa Ray

STORY

By Tarana Rana

Actress.

Survivor.

Advocate.

There’s so much more to Lisa Ray than meets the eye. Rocketing to fame in India in the 90s, she became an iconic figure and was named one of the ‘Ten Most Beautiful Indian Women of the Millennium’ by a Times of India Poll.

Through critically acclaimed movies like Water, which was nominated for an Academy Award, Ray carved a name for herself as a successful actress and was seen in numerous productions in Canada and the U.S. She is also known for her triumphant battle against Multiple Myeloma, the incurable blood cancer she was diagnosed with in 2009 and her journey is an inspiring tale of resilience and determination.

“My life has been about accumulating adventures, travel and experiences,” Ray says. “Whatever I accomplish during this mission is fantastic but I don’t judge my progress through life the way society does.”

A Cross-Cultural Childhood “I relished my mixed background,” says Ray. “It gave me a wider lens from which to encounter the world.”

Born in Toronto to a Bengali father and Polish mother, Ray spent her childhood years alternating between Toronto and Calcutta and embraced both her cultural backgrounds. “I was fully immersed in both my Polish and Indian traditions, from going

to church and snacking kielbasa and bread in Roncesvalles to celebrating Durga Puja and playing with cousins by the side of the Ganga in Serampore, outside Calcutta.”

In late 70s and early 80s when Ray was growing up, she recalls there weren’t many other kids with mixed ethnicity, and her self-identification as an Indo-Pole was confusing for many people to understand. However, Ray grew comfortable with her dichotomous heritage and believes it is her diversity which makes it easy for her to adapt to new places. “I’m a born nomad,” she says. “I have lived in London, Paris, Milan, New York, LA and Toronto and while I never feel like a foreigner, I am always the outsider.”

Growing up, Ray was also extremely rebellious, and transferred out of three different high schools as a teenager,

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I was a rebel at heart and felt there was much more to experience outside of the system. I never looked for validation from society even as a teenager,” she states. “I was a strange, socially maladaptive kid: very sensitive, artistic, studious, highly rebellious and fanatically independent

despite her academic excellence. She received an award for the highest grades in History and English in the province of Ontario, but admits she was unchallenged and often bored at school. “I was a rebel at heart and felt there was much more to experience outside of the system. I never looked for validation from society even as a teenager,” she states. “I was a strange, socially maladaptive kid: very sensitive, artistic, studious, highly rebellious and fanatically independent.”

Accidental Actress Ray’s streak of independence played a major part in deciding which projects she chose to work in. After an accidental discovery by a modelling agent while holidaying in India as a teenager, Ray became an overnight sensation when her first advertisement

When movie offers came pouring in, Ray chose her Bollywood debut in 2001 with Vikram Bhatt’s thriller Kasoor. Her Deepa Mehta’s crossover romantic comedy, Bollywood Hollywood. It premiered at the 2002 Toronto Film Festival, where she was voted as the ‘Star of the Future’ for her role.

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for Bombay Dyeing released and she quickly rose through the ranks with iconic ads like Garden Saris and Lakme. When movie offers came pouring in, Ray chose carefully, finally making her Bollywood debut in 2001 with Vikram Bhatt’s thriller Kasoor.

Her first film in English was Deepa Mehta’s cross-over romantic comedy, Bollywood Hollywood. It premiered at the 2002 Toronto Film Festival, where she was voted as the ‘Star of the Future’ for her role.

“I was fortunate to have an accidental but very successful beginning to my career in Bombay, during a very special time in the history of the city,” Ray reflects on her early career and ‘accidental actress’ is one of the phrases she uses to describe herself on her website. She goes on to add, “I have seen the industry from the outside in and yet resisted many lucrative offers from mainstream Bollywood due to my independent nature. I’ll never make a list of whom I’ve said ‘no’ to... but it’s pretty impressive!”

After realizing her passion for acting, Ray moved to London in order to pursue a serious career in the performing arts. She studied at the Central School of Speech and Drama, the London Centre for Theatre Studies, The Desmond Jones school of Physical Theatre and graduated from the Academy of Live and Recorded Arts in 2004, with a post-graduate degree in acting. While studying, Ray made an effort to not accept any work until she had graduated. However, she was unable to refuse Deepa Mehta’s offer to play the lead in the highly controversial film of its time, Water, which was nominated for an Oscar in 2007. Set in a pre-independent India, the internationally acclaimed film examines the lives of a group of widows who are exiled to a temple in the holy city

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While studying, Ray made an effort to not accept any work until she had graduated. However, she was unable to refuse Deepa Mehta’s offer to play the lead in the highly controversial Water, which was nominated for an Oscar in 2007. Set in a pre-independent

Water is a highlight, but each project has enriched me,” says Ray. “From Kasoor to Bollywood/Hollywood to The World Unseen to my appearances in mainstream TV shows and documentaries… it’s all part of the play and drama of life.

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of Varanasi.

Since her role as the Hindu widow, Kalyani, Ray has played numerous other marginalized and unconventional characters. Some of her most notable appearances include a wife coming out as gay in 1950s South Africa in The World Unseen (2007) and a single woman running a farm in All Hat (2007). She is unable to decide which project moved her most.“Water is a highlight, but each project has enriched me,” says Ray. “From Kasoor to Bollywood/Hollywood to The World Unseen to my appearances in mainstream TV shows and documentaries… it’s all part of the play and drama of life.”

Battle with Cancer It was during a month-long Moksha yoga teacher training course in Kerala, India, where Ray first began to feel unwell and in June 2009, the then 37-year-old was diagnosed with Multiple myeloma, an incurable cancer of the plasma cells.

This relatively rare type of cancer affects multiple areas of the bone marrow and can also prevent major organs from functioning normally. According to the Myeloma Canada, the average diagnosis is 60 years of age, with only 4% of cases diagnosed in people under 45 and Ray believes her young age had a lot to do with beating the cancer.

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actress also mentions how writing helped her through some of her low moments. “I started a blog, The Yellow Dairies, which helped me to digest what I was going through.” A chronicle of her personal journey, the Yellow Diaries provides an insight into Ray’s experience with cancer, from the steroid-induced hunger pangs to losing her hair to some of the life lessons she learnt from close friends. Ray’s blog is often raw, sometimes humorous, but always honest.

Her treatment included four months of steroids and rounds of chemotherapy before culminating in a stem cell transplant on Christmas 2009, at Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto.

Throughout her battle with the aggressive cancer, Ray managed to stay positive, which she attributes to the unwavering support she received from her father, friends and community as well as her

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Addressing her battle with cancer candidly, Ray’s blog inspired thousands around the world. It also brought her a tremendous amount of support from India, Canada and the rest of the world, for which she is grateful for. “I was so touched by the heartfelt response I received from the subcontinent.” has used her celebrity status to help raise awareness of this rare cancer

own spirituality. “I have spent a good proportion of the last decade of my life working on myself and my inner life whether it meant living in a meditation centre in Dharamsala for 6 months or attending retreats around the world and I put mindfulness at the centre of my lifestyle. I believe that I tapped into resources inside which I hadn’t known I had,” she shares. “So yoga, meditation and inner harmony really can only be put into practise during a crisis.”

Reflecting back, the global actress

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also mentions how writing helped her through some of her low moments.

“I started a blog, The Yellow Dairies, which helped me to digest what I was going through.” A chronicle of her personal journey, the Yellow Diaries provides an insight into Ray’s experience with cancer, from the steroid-induced hunger pangs to losing her hair to some of the life lessons she learnt from close friends. Ray’s blog is often raw, sometimes humorous, but always honest. In September TM

2009, she wrote, “It’s a taboo to speak openly about long term, potentially fatal diseases. Jeez. Why didn’t anyone tell me?

I would have spoken earlier.” Addressing her battle with cancer candidly, Ray’s blog inspired thousands around the world. It also brought her a tremendous amount of support from India, Canada and the rest of the world, for which she is grateful for. “I was so touched by the heartfelt response I received from the subcontinent.”

Ever since her diagnosis, Ray has used her celebrity status to help raise awareness of this rare cancer, beginning with her brave decision to announce her illness to the public at the 2009 Toronto Film Festival. Since then, Ray has undertaken numerous cancer initiatives, including raising funds to establish the first research chair for multiple myeloma at the Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto and partnering with Myeloma Canada to spread the word about treatment options and access to care. Also a strong advocate of stem cell treatment, Ray believes stem cells are the next big thing in medicine. “I believe [stem cells] hold the key to curing many diseases. I’ve spent time in the labs seeing an actual human heart built in a petri dish – its game changing.”

Ray was declared cancer-free in April 2010 and has regular blood work and maintenance treatment done to ensure the disease remains dormant. Ray dislikes the phrase cancer survivor and prefers

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to call herself a cancer graduate, as she believes her ordeal has left her wiser.

“Cancer is not the end of the road,” she blogged a month after remission. “It’s a cryptic restart.”

Moving Forward In this new chapter of her life, Ray has found love and married the man she was meant to spend her life with. She said ‘I do’ at Napa Valley to Jason Dehni, a banking executive and they celebrate their second anniversary on October 20th.

The happy couple met through a mutual friend, Seamus O’ Regan, the Canadian media personality, who after interviewing Ray for Canada AM, suggested she get involved with a charity called Artbound, which Dehni co-founded.

“It was a case of Carpe Diem,” Ray says of Dehni’s proposal. “Jason surprised me

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in Napa Valley after a retreat, planning his proposal around a sunset bike ride but as usual I upset all his carefully laid plans due to an eye infection.

We ended up in our robes, drinking wine when I playfully asked him why he hadn’t yet proposed! So he had no choice but to drop his former plans and grab the moment. He got down on one knee in his robe. It was the most romantic moment of my life!”

Amidst her married bliss, Ray’s advocacy for cancer awareness remains a priority. She auctioned her wedding saree in order to raise funds for cancer research in India. Last year, she also added 'Designer' to her everexpanding resume and launched a limited edition line of 10 sarees which were designed in collaboration with the renowned Indian design house, TM

P H O T O : J O y D aT T a , L i s a R ay

My life has been about accumulating adventures, travel and experiences,” Ray says.

“Whatever I accomplish during this mission is fantastic but I don’t judge my progress through life the way society does.

Satya Paul. These sarees all feature themes of hope and a portion of sales from the collection in Canada will go towards myeloma research at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto. “I [also] just completed my participation for the past 6 months on a clinical trial at Princess Margaret Hospital for an entirely new way to treat cancer,” says Ray. She was also the recipient of the prestigious Diamond Jubilee Medal for her contributions to Canada in 2013.

Post-remission, Ray has been working simultaneously on various projects and she quickly reels off a list.

“I’m finishing a memoir for Harper Collins, looking at scripts in Mumbai, assessing film and theatre projects...

I also just shot a hot new television commercial for Rado watches, with Hrithik.” Ray will also return this fall for the fifth season of the hit series, Top Chef Canada, a project she remains ecstatic about given her love for food. “I’ve had a passion for international cuisine and I’ve literally eaten my way across the world: from asado in Buenos Aires to ostrich in Cape Town,” Ray states. “Top Chef is a fantastic format which came along at the perfect point in my life.” She is also has plans to launch a new blog, called The Stream, to share her passion for food.

More recently, Ray was named the first Global Brand Ambassador for Insight Vacations, a luxury boutique travel company, which offers luxury vacations throughout Europe, North America, India and Nepal. “[I] just spent a few weeks in India and Italy filming ‘Insight Moments’ with a fab team,” confirms Ray. “This is my Eat Pray Love year, as I’m heading to Bali in September.”

“I think Hans Christian Anderson expresses my life philosophy best in the Fairy Tale of my Life,” shares Ray, as the interview concludes. “To move, to breathe, to fly, to float, To gain all while you give, To roam the roads of lands remote, To travel is to live.”

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ANNUAL

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2013

DARPAN Magazine's Extraordinary Achievement Awards honour individuals who have accomplished extraordinary feats in diverse areas, and have reflected their South Asian heritage in a remarkable way. We extend a big thank you to all its sponsors for the 5th annual Extraordinary Achievement Awards.

We are proud to be associated with each one of them in this grand celebration.

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Worth It or A Waste?

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HIGHER EDUCATION F

or the first 18 years of our life, education isn't optional.

We begin early with preschool, spend our childhood in elementary school and look forward to growing up throughout high school. But what happens after secondary school? We are on our own to decide how to spend our time, our money or our brain power and we certainly can't see into the future to know if what we decide will be worth it.

Unlike schooling, pursuing higher education is no longer mandatory. This formal stage of learning which is completed at institutions such as universities or colleges following the completion of secondary or high school is a choice and determining the value of the additional investment can weigh heavily on the

By Ashley Stephens

decision to attend. Is pursuing higher education worth more schooling, more money and more time?

“All people should consider postsecondary education, whether its traditional college and university academic programs or trades and technical training,” says Bob Gautama, British Columbia's VicePresident, the Curriculam and Education of chartered profesional accountants. “This doesn’t mean that all people should necessarily pursue higher education but it should always be a factor in the career decision-making.”

Post-secondary education no longer sets you apart from your peers as it used to, Gautama notes. It is seen as a necessity for a good job and is an expected line on one’s resume.

The demands of the job market have changed and that once sacred college diploma or university degree has now become a prerequisite even for entry level positions. Postgraduate programs are becoming the benchmark for landing higher paid gigs or climbing the corporate ladder.

“The reality is that, in Canada, the majority of individuals complete high school,” Gautama explains.

“A secondary education is no longer a differentiating factor in the competitive job market and has not been for a considerable length of time. Employers, when making hiring decisions, will frequently establish a baseline education criterion, often a bachelor’s degree or a technical school diploma. If an unknown prospective employee does

not meet this baseline, they’re eliminated from the shortlist almost immediately.”

According to data obtained by Employment and Social Development Canada, the number of Canadians choosing post-secondary education has increased dramatically over the last 20 years. Approximately 53.6 per cent of Canadians aged 15 and over had trade certificates, college diplomas and university degrees in 2012, rising 20.9 per cent since 1990. In 2012, 69.2 per cent of those aged 25 to 44 years old and 59.2 per cent of those aged 45 to 64 years old were postsecondary graduates.

Statistics also show that the percentage of those 15 years of age and older without a high school diplomas has decreased from 37.8 per cent in 1990 to 19.1 per cent in

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SPECIAL FEATURE Unlike schooling, pursuing higher education is no longer mandatory. This formal stage of learning which is completed at institutions such as universities or colleges following the completion of secondary or high school is a choice and determining the value of the additional investment can weigh heavily on the decision to attend. Is pursuing higher education worth more schooling, more money and more time?

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2012, while the percentage of individuals with university degrees saw an increase from 10.9 per cent to 22.2 per cent over the same years.

The 2005-2006 school year saw record enrolment with just over 1 million students enrolled in both full and part-time studies according to Statistics Canada. This number increased to 1,996,200 students in 2011-2012, shattering the record by nearly 1 million individuals.

So are these 2 million students making the right decision to attend university or college each year?

“Higher education is about more than simply checking off a box on an employer’s wish list. It can allow you to acquire specific knowledge that is needed in a given career (e.g. accounting), and make you a more flexible thinker,” says Gautama.

Pursuing post-secondary or post-graduate studies is often done with a career or achievement in mind. Educational institutes provide classes that prepare its students for entry into the working world. It is difficult to obtain jobs in certain industries without the education necessary to perform in the position.

“Education is critical in professions that are regulated – medical, financial, legal,” says Christian Codrington, Senior Manager, Professional Practice of Human Resources Management Association.

“Other skilled or semi-skilled industries may not be as stringent; however, demonstrating that you have knowledge in the area in which you are applying will often be looked upon favourably by employers.”

This expectation that certain professions have all TM

Bob Gautama, Vice President, Programs of Canadian Management Accountants British Columbia completed undergraduate as well as post-graduate studies increases the value of pursuing additional schooling.

Statistics Canada reports that higher education leads to higher earnings. With higher earnings come greater savings and more valuable assets.

While current data is not compiled but is estimated to be on trend, a 2009 report released by the Canadian Millennium Scholarship Foundation reported that Canadian postsecondary graduates can expect to earn more money than their high-school graduate counterparts. The report indicated that those in British Columbia with college degrees earn approximately $225,000 more than high school graduates. This number rises to about half a million dollars in additional earnings for those

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SPECIAL FEATURE “The reality is that, in Canada, the majority of individuals complete high school,” Gautama explains.

“A secondary education is no longer a differentiating factor in the competitive job market and has not been for a considerable length of time. Employers, when making hiring decisions, will frequently establish a baseline education criterion, often a bachelor’s degree or a technical school diploma.

If an unknown prospective employee does not meet this baseline, they’re eliminated from the shortlist almost immediately.”

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with a bachelor's degree and jumps even higher to $957,000 more for those who complete a graduate degree.

These statistics don't necessarily represent all careers or all graduates but they illustrate the earnings potential based on education levels.

Studies have demonstrated that these numbers will be affected by geographical location and educational institute with significant value resulting from field of study. Engineers, for example, produce a much higher return than those without post-secondary education. A recent study in the United States conducted

by Pew Research Centre concluded that an engineer from the University of California, Berkeley can expect to earn close to $1.1 million more after 20 years than someone who did not attend college. It was reported that even the least profitable engineers would be nearly $500,000 ahead of high school graduates.

While numbers may be important over the course of a lifetime or in certain industries, Codrington notes that earnings, promotions and even respect levels within a workplace will vary by profession. “Take teachers, for example, who after some years of service go back to obtain their Master’s degree. That profession recognizes that value by giving those teachers an increase in pay. For other jobs or professions the link is not as clear or guaranteed,” he explains. “Often it is the combination of that higher education TM

Christian Codrington, Senior Manager, Professional Practice of Human Resources Management Association and demonstrating how one can apply those learnings that leads to increased promotional opportunities or pay increases.”

Post-secondary education also provides students with the opportunity to learn far beyond what is taught in the classroom. The life experiences, long-term relationships and fundamental skills that complement a degree, diploma or graduate designation are valuable assets in any career.

“Education is more than simply learning certain technical details,” notes Gautama. “Acquisition of knowledge, problem-solving, and critical thinking serves us in all aspects of our lives, not only the workplace. These are all crucial components of a successful individual’s toolkit.”

On the other hand, the argument against post-

secondary education can be heard from inside a college dropout’s garage or from the basement of a high school student still living at home. Examples of highly successful entrepreneurs, businesspeople and founders of well-known companies that have made it to the top without completing a degree show just how possible it is to become somebody without attending school.

Bill Gates, considered the richest person in the world according to Bloomberg Billionaires List, never completed his Harvard University degree that he began in 1973. Instead, Gates dropped out of school and started Microsoft which has since become the world's largest personal-computer software company.

Similarly, users of Facebook may be familiar with one of its co-founders, Mark Zuckerberg, who has risen to fame for his development of the widely popular social networking site. At the age of 23, just three years after founding Facebook and dropping out of Harvard, Zuckerberg became a billionaire.

For these individuals, the pursuit of higher education was unnecessary for success but they're the exception, not the norm.

“Personal attributes are also critical to success in any field or endeavour. Motivation, desire,

personality are amongst a myriad of traits that make people successful. And one must enjoy what one does – that itself is a determinant of success,” says Gautama.

Profitable business leaders such as Gates and Zuckerberg are continually learning in order to adapt to their industries, which Codrington suggests is important. “I can appreciate the costs and time involved can make it challenging for many of us to do so, however, business cycles are shortening considerably from what they were 20 years ago, so even jobs that require minimal education continue to change or be eliminated. To ensure people are able to cope with these changing demands in the general workplace we should all actively seek ways to improve our skills, knowledge and abilities throughout our adult lives.”

If such success stories haven't caused you to abandon your university aspirations, the decision to pursue higher education shouldn't come without careful consideration in a multitude of areas.

“Undertake as much research as possible,” says Gautama. “Determine carefully what field you are interested in pursuing and then find the educational avenue that allows you to meet that

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objective.”

With more individuals choosing to enrol in post-secondary and post-graduate studies, the increased competition has dictated that degrees and diplomas must mean more.

“Finding ways to remain relevant in the marketplace is very important and having a number of arrows in one’s quiver to choose from is a good insurance against the changes and demands of today’s marketplace,” says Codrington. “Invest in self-development.”

Investing in self development – whether it may be after high school studies, weekend courses or your post-graduate degree – is a choice. While there may be a long list of benefits that accompany an education, it is important to consider if they outweigh your individual costs. Higher education is worth it but only if it is well thought out.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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 recently had her first baby and aims to inspire healthy living for all.

In 2014, UFV turns 40.

As we celebrate our history, we also dream of growing innovation locally and beyond.

We can only do this together with you.

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KPU: AHEAD OF THE CURVE

F

Plaza expansion will most likely become a hub for business and professional studies.

“We have a fantastic School of Business, the largest undergraduate business school in Western Canada,” shares Dr. Davis. “One of its defining features is that…everybody who leaves has in fact had some real-world experience along with their classroom studies and this [new expansion] would provide them an opportunity to have a more professional environment up there with the emerging businesses.”

KPU strives to provide new, innovative

or the past 30 years, Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) has managed to stay ahead of the curve through continual growth and development.

Beginning as a college more than 30 years ago, KPU is now the largest post-secondary university south of the Fraser and the largest teaching university in Western Canada with four modern campuses in Langley, Richmond, Surrey and Cloverdale.

“KPU is a special purpose, regional teaching university so it has been very much established to serve this region,” says Dr. Alan Davis, the President and Vice-Chancellor of KPU. “To some degree, to describe KPU is to describe the community.”

Conscious about meeting the needs of their students and the surrounding community, KPU is expanding into a new space in Surrey City Centre in 2016. “It is important for us in two ways,” explains Dr. Davis. “To expand our programming to include more professional and continuing studies, especially for working [students] and…it creates more capacity for growth.”

Not only will this expansion cut down commuting times for students living in the north end of the city, but the new KPU Civic

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* A dv ertorial

Dr. Alan Davis, President & Vice-Chancellor of KPU

academic programs. This year, KPU has added three new and exciting programs to the curriculum. In January, technical apparel design was introduced. This postbaccalaureate diploma, which is offered at the Richmond campus, trains students to design technical apparel, such as specialized safety attire and activewear. “It’s part of our relationship with Lululemon and other activewear designers like Mountain Equipment Co-op. Vancouver is a major market for technical apparel,” says Dr. Davis. “This [program] is a direct response to demand from industry.”

Additionally, KPU launched a new program focusing on non-governmental organizations and non-profit studies. This certificate program prepares students for employment in this growing sector. “We’ve had a lot of demand for this from people who work in the not-for-profit sector, which is very large in Surrey,” says Dr. Davis. “Again, [this program is] responding to community needs.” The program teaches practical, need-to-know skills including marketing, blogging, reporting and researching.

This fall, KPU is also offering a diploma in brewing and brewery operations at their Langley Campus. This program offers students the chance to learn the science, production and business of brewing and includes a work placement during the summer term. As the craft beer industry continues to steadily grow in Vancouver, Dr. Davis notes how positive the student response has been for this program. “[For] the first intake, we have had a lot of enthusiasm and a lot of applications!”

By ensuring that their curriculum and programs offered are relevant and often created in response to industry demands, students at KPU have an edge when delving

KPU is a special purpose, regional teaching university so it has been very much established to serve this region,” says Dr. Alan Davis, the President and Vice-Chancellor of KPU. “To some degree, to describe KPU is to describe the community.” into the workforce. Their hands-on approach to education means that students have real-life experience when they leave school. As a polytechnic university, KPU applies theory to practice and offers work placements, internships and co-op opportunities.

“Among the non-research universities in BC, we have the highest number of co-op placements in the province,” says Dr. Davis. “That means those students are having very extended work experiences that actually contribute credit towards their degree. That often leads to a job.”

In addition to helping their students

find success in their careers, KPU prepares and encourages students to be responsible, global citizens. “We like to balance, you know, it’s not just about getting a job,” explains Dr. Davis.

“It’s also about being prepared for adult life and to be an engaged citizen who understands and participates in the community.” KPU ensures all their programs encourage critical understanding as well as social and ethical awareness in students.

“We also have a very strong student association,” says Dr. Davis. “There is some research that suggests that the success of students is aligned to their ability to engage more broadly with the university.” With a club for almost every hobby, interest and program as well as varsity and intramural athletics, students at KPU get a chance to enhance their university experience by participating in their vibrant campus life.

With their signature approach to education which blends academic excellence with hands-on, practical learning, coupled with their response to community and industry needs, KPU ensures that all their students are prepared for a successful career and life as a global citizen.

For more information about KPU, visit

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Back to school means back to the books. This school year, ensure your children excel at school by helping them develop good homework habits.

By Tarana Rana

Homework Help Tips for Parents

Han integral part of learning. Children who omework may have a bad name but it is

complete their homework diligently have reviewed what was taught in class and are better prepared for the next day’s lesson. However, the benefits of homework extend further than that. The Vancouver School Board notes on their website that homework teaches children to be responsible and boosts their self esteem when they complete assignments on time. Homework also encourages students to get organized, manage time wisely and meet deadlines, all of which are life-long skills. So how can parents help their children develop good homework habits?

Make it routine

Establish a daily homework routine. According to Peg Dawson, school psychologist and author of Homework: A Guide for Parents, setting up a homework routine not only makes the process go more smoothly but also fosters a sense of order

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Parents can offer guidelines For anyone who has kids help or works kids and withwith directions, these keeping up but thedays, homework should with the latest apps, social be completed by the media sites and online child.

“Giving has tools can seemanswers impossible. a negative impact on But through education, dialogue openand your child’sand learning communication, it’s possible facilitates dependency,” to help safely sayschildren Fisal Khan. navigate the online world.” that children can apply later on in their lives, including college and work.

“Get involved in your kid’s homework in terms of planning and organization,” says Fisal Khan, a socials and history teacher at TM

the Mediated Learning Academy. “Set a time when homework should be done.” Children should get into the habit of doing homework around the same time every day although the time may vary, depending on the child. Figure out when your child works best; this might be right after school for some while others might work better in the evening.

The next step is to set up a homeworkfriendly area in the house, which is away from distractions like TV or loud siblings. Make sure all the necessary supplies such as pencils, paper, glue, scissors and erasers are kept here so time is not wasted gathering these items every day. The right location to study may vary from child to child and according to Aishwarya Bipin Pradhan, an ESL teacher in Vancouver and mother of two, comfort is key.

“The point is how comfortable the child feels when he is studying in the designated area,” she says. “The room should [also] hold natural light. That is because light brings energy in the room [whereas] in a gloomy place, the child may find himself being dull and sleepy.”

Make it fun

Homework is often seen as a chore, but it doesn’t have to be. “For both younger kids and older students, homework should not be a boring task rather it should be engaging and meaningful to them,” says Khan. He suggests that parents with younger children could start a study group where they invite a one or two classmates to work together on

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their homework. “They could share ideas and make homework fun as well as a learning process.”

For older kids, Khan states it is important to make the work relevant to the individual child. “For example, if we are studying socials, the older student would be encouraged to find a current news item that is interesting to her and connect with how a government decision was made to back a certain project [for example], the oil pipeline. Engage your child in a discussion, what are the pros and cons of such a decision,” he says.

It is also important to celebrate homework achievements, especially for the younger ones.

Display their best work on the fridge; give out small prizes like stickers, small snacks, extra iPad time and dole out encouragement at the end of each homework session. “Appreciation is the best reward,” says Pradhan. “[But] there is a thin line between appreciation and bribery so one has to be cautious,” she advises.

Parents can offer guidelines and help with directions, but the homework should be completed by the child. “Giving answers has a negative impact on your child’s learning and facilitates dependency,” Khan says. “You may think you are helping but in fact you are interfering with his or her learning process.”

While it is true that younger children work better when an adult is nearby, refrain from giving them the answers. “Sit with the child but don’t do his work. [Instead] tell him ‘I’m sitting right here and if you need my help, ask,’” says Pradhan. “Check after the work is done [but] please do not rectify the errors if there are any.” Instead, Pradhan advises parents to ask their child to search for errors on their own first. “As a parent you are inculcating the habit of self-checking, something the child is going to need in the future. You are teaching the child to take responsibility of his own learning.”

In the end, good homework habits are achieved through consistency and can’t be changed overnight.

Gradually introduce strategies one at a time and be sure to provide lots of positive feedback when you find your children following their homework routine or completing an assignment without being told.

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DARPAN SALUTES

DARPAN SAluteS is an initiative to showcase individuals in India who are striving to make a positive impact on the lives of myriad others.

DARPAN Magazine salutes their zeal and determined efforts.

While growing up in a small village called Jhundhan in Punjab, Ghumman aspired to have a career in either acting or modelling, but she points out that dancing was something she was active in since childhood. However, in an endeavour to keep her academics strong, Ghumman studied nursing for three years. In order to acquire further knowledge in nursing; Ghumman enrolled herself in a BSc program in Chandigarh. "I was heading

BY GARIMA GOSWAMI

S u b h r e et K a u r

Ghumman

Changing destiny on one foot Also known as 'India's one legged dancer' Subhreet Kaur Ghumman lost one leg in an accident but with her unwavering will power she amazed India and the world with an incredible dance performance on the popular dance reality show 'India's Got Talent.'

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hen Subhreet Kaur Ghumman performed in India's Got Talent 2014 (IGT), an Indian reality TV show, she stunned the entire nation with not only an electrifying performance but also with her zeal and passion. Her 2 minute performance bewildered the audience and made this 27-year-old an overnight sensation. Ghumman, an amputee, did not let anything hinder her from her path of achieving what she had to do - perform at IGT.

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friend was driving the scooter very fast. The scooter slipped on the speed breaker and I fractured my leg," says Ghumman.

She would still have survived the fracture, if it wasn't for the negligence of the hospital authorities. During the surgery, one of the doctors cut her nerve and Ghumman began to bleed uncontrollably. Her condition went from bad to worse. For almost a year, the 27-year-old along was seeking the right treatment to repair the damage done by one of the surgical doctors. "Later, I decided that I have to cut my leg."

Post surgery, she spent time reading books about individuals that were differently-abled and had accomplished remarkable achievements. Their success stories infused positivity into her mind and Ghumman started viewing life differently.

It was around this time when this young female was watching an episode of IGT and she saw Vinod Thakur, a double amputee, showcase an incredible dance performance. His dance moves motivated her and she decided that she would audition on the IGT stage.

In order to commence her dance practice, Ghumman approached several dance institutes but she was rejected

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simply due to the reason that she was an amputee. Eventually, Rockstar Academy, an academy based in Chandigarh, accepted Ghumman's application and she started her training to audition for IGT. A strict regime was followed prior to her stint in the auditions round that included exercising from 6 a.m., followed by yoga and then dance classes in the evening.

Her determination paid off and Ghumman managed to clear the auditions round in front of a live audience and a panel of three notable judges - Kirron Kher, Sonali Bendre and Karan Johar. She performed on a Bollywood number, looking gorgeous in an elegant pink top and green skirt. In her second round, Ghumman shocked the audience and judges with her 2 minute aerial act. This 'one legged dancer' started being seen as a source of inspiration for myriad individuals. "Life has changed after India's Got Talent. I have got a new identity and people look at me as an inspiration," she says.

A determined Ghumman is now following her dream of becoming an actress.

With the support of her mother, whom Ghumman describes as an inspiration, dogma associated with differently-abled individuals and how they are perceived. "I hate the word disabled. I think disabled is someone who despite of having everything is unable is do anything." With her resolute outlook, she has certainly shaken the condemned conventional perspective and has risen as a perfect example of celebrating life despite the odds.

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The Punjabi

SOLDIER PART 2

By Steven Purewal In 1857, Sikh and British agendas aligned in the suppression of a mutiny mounted by rebellious Indian troops. The alliance would bring about an era of paternalistic rule that transformed Punjab's peasantry into an ardent loyalist community. In 1914, confronted by a superior German Army, Great Britain was forced to fight not just to hold onto their Empire, but for their very freedom. Like the 1857 Mutiny, the Punjabi soldier again would be positioned to save Britain or deny her, and thus alter the course of history for India and the Western world.

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SPECIAL FEATURE

Rebellion In the summer of 1914, Germany stood ready with a war machine designed to re-address the balance of power in Europe. Britain's focus on the oceans and naval supremacy had left it vulnerable on land. So acute was this deficit that German leader, Kaiser Wilhelm II, famously belittled Britain’s infantry referring to it as ‘that contemptible little army’. At the time, the British Indian Army represented the only other professional army that the Crown could call upon up in time of need. The Indian Army had served the Crown loyally throughout the Victorian period, with recruitment policies centered around martial race doctrines, which made for a clear Northern Indian bias. No less than 3/4 of that army was now comprised of men from the Punjab, North West Frontier Province (which until 1907 was part of the Punjab) and Nepalese Gurkhas - and amongst these contingents the Sikhs were the majority.

As fate would have it, the steadfast loyalty of the Punjabis, forged under Queen Victoria and courted by King George V at his Delhi Durbar in 1911, was tested the very moment the crown needed Punjab the most. In May 1914 events were unfolding outside of India that had given rise to another type of Punjabi soldier - one that would challenge the bond between the ruler & the ruled - a soldier of the Ghadar Party - a soldier committed to the violent overthrow of the British in India.

The Canadian

Connection The Ghadar party was formed in 1913 by Indian intellectuals based in California, to liberate India from British rule. It found fertile ground for its manifesto amongst disaffected Sikhs in British Columbia. By the turn of the 20th century, Punjab’s humble peasantry emboldened by transnational citizenship of empire had ventured west to Canada only to encounter wide spread discrimination.

Many were veterans of the British Indian Army, whose faith in the Crown had been shattered in the realization that though, as British subjects they were equal to whites in law, in reality they were anything but. Tensions peaked in Vancouver in May 1914 with the Komagata Maru incident. The ship carrying mostly Sikh passengers was denied landing in Vancouver on legal technicalities blatantly contrived to keep Indians out of Canada. In July, British authorities wary of how events

With her back against the wall, Britain would lift the colour bar and King George V would make an appeal directly to the Indian soldier to uphold the Izzat of the Empire against "an aggressive and relentless enemy... shoulder to shoulder with their comrades from all parts of the empire." in Canada could inflame political turmoil in India, ordered the ship back to India. An armed Canadian vessel escorted the passenger ship out of Canadian waters - though strict instructions had been given not to fire upon it. Authorities were well aware that the Ghadar party would use any flash point to rally support for its cause. As such they sought to dismantle the party's operations, and in the ensuing covert operations Bhag Singh, a British Indian Army veteran and President of the Khalsa Diwan Society was shot & killed in the 2nd Avenue Gurudwara, Vancouver on September the 5th. Bhag was a prominent local leader of the Ghadar party. The Sikhs held William Hopkinson, a police inspector formally of Calcutta, India, now assigned with surveillance of the Indian community in Canada, accountable for the murder.

with Britain's white Dominions. Indian nationalist leaders of the time, including Gandhi, speculated support for war would advance their demands for greater freedoms.

Under such endorsements, British India and the princely states within it would go onto offer men, raw resources and money for the war effort. Intellectuals and radicals abroad however, wanted nothing less than the removal of Britain altogether and schemed to unravel the ties that bound Sepoy to Sahib.

The question of which faction would prevail loomed large on the eve of war; if Ghadar operatives were able to instigate an uprising in the villages of Punjab, the 'slave soldiers' of the Sikh regiments might well mutiny.

The British Indian Army had an Achilles heel; the colour bar the Punjabi civilians encountered in Canada had a counterpart in British military policy. Indian troops were prohibited from raising arms against white men. The policy had been implemented in the South African Boar War of 1899-1902.

Meanwhile the agenda for the majority of During this campaign the hitherto celebrated Indian Sikhs in 1914, as with most Indians Victorian British Indian Army had been at that time, lay in claims for equality reduced to a non-combatant role of Aide-

A Matter of

Honour

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ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF IndUS MEdIA FOUndATIOn

Echoes of War &

SPECIAL FEATURE

ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF IndUS MEdIA FOUndATIOn

of the Expeditionary Force from India which from a large proportion of the first contingent The 15th Sikhs Infantry- The famous Sikhs r of unflinching faithfulness, absolute g line of the Allies. The Sikh is a doughty warrio has recently landed at Marseilles to join the fightin ted. October 1914 Illustra Army make the ideal fighting man ~ Navy and fearlessness, great nerve and other attributes which

De-Camp. This slight weighed heavy on the Punjabi Soldiers. A notion to preserve racial superiority lay at the heart of the imperial policy; white men could not under any circumstance appear vulnerable to brown men - even if they were enemies of the crown.

Punjabis had stood toe-to-toe with Europeans in the fields of Chillanwala, once in 1849 and once in antiquity when Punjabi King Porus had confronted Alexander the Great on the very same ground. The Punjabis knew they were more than a match for any European and they desired the chance to prove it again in battle.

The call to mobilize came within days of Britain’s declaration of war. An Indian Expeditionary Force (IEF) would be sent to overseas to relieve the British battalions at the Suez Canal, freeing them to join the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) in France.

However, during the last week of August, conditions on the ground in Europe were dire; overpowered by the Germans, the BEF was on the retreat. Britain needed her empire to rally to its defense but the only imperial soldiers available were the Indians. With her back against the wall, Britain would lift the colour bar and King George would make an appeal directly to the Indian soldier to uphold the Izzat of the Empire against "an aggressive and relentless enemy.. shoulder to shoulder with their comrades from all parts of the empire".

The imperial authorities had calculated that the lifting of the colour bar and the appeal to Punjabi honour would drown out the rebel calls for mutiny which were mounting by the day. They calculated correctly; if the Sirkar could do this for the army then India's demands for equality with the white

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dominions was within realms of possibility - or so went the thinking.

A Tryst with Destiny

Thus enroute to the Suez Canal, Indian Expeditionary Force A (IEF-A) was cleared to sail on for Europe and by a quirk of fate, it would land in France on September 26, the very same day the Komagata Maru anchored in Indian waters. On landing, 'soldiers' of Ghadar were pitted against Imperial soldiers in a violent riot; 20 passengers were killed and many others were imprisoned for the duration of the war. Other Ghadarites from across the globe would also return to India only to fail to incite the local populace into a people’s rebellion. The peasantry of Punjab remained loyal and its soldiers would report for duty. For most Punjabis, to turn their backs on the British request in their hour of need would simply have been dishonourable.

Some, no doubt were unaware of the wider implications of their actions, that perhaps at that moment they held the fate of the entire empire in their hands. Duty bound by obligation of the oaths they had taken, theirs was not to question why. As with the Europeans, there was an assumption that war would be over by Christmas so thoughts of winning glory for their regiments abounded.

Fate would still add another twist in the story of loyalist and radical. On October 21st Mewa Singh assassinated Hopkinson on streets of Vancouver, just as IEF-A first entered the line of fire in Europe - karma, it would seem, hand another hand to play in upholding the traditions of Izzat for all true sons of the land of five rivers.

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Word of their heroic deeds in Flanders would soon be chronicled in the far flung posts of empire:

"The Germans pressed forward to encounter, not retiring Belgians, but oncoming, swarthy figures.

Before they could recover from their surprise, those dusky soldiers were amongst them. There was a short, sharp encounter, and then a rapid German retreat. Fright and the deadly Indian bayonets turned that retreat into nothing more dignified than a scamper to cover. Yet on came the soldiery which, till then, the German had regarded as a myth. The retiring troops were simply dug out of the trenches in which they had taken shelter and driven backwards farther still by the well-aimed bullets and the relentless steel of the East's finest fighters. When the Germans had hoped to break the line, the Indians turned the tide of the battle, and behind them followed the Belgians..."

New Zealand Herald, Volume LI, Issue 15789, 11 December 1914

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Disclaimer: Views expresseD in this article are those of the writer anD Do not necessarily represent the Views of, anD shoulD not be attributeD to the magazine.

SPECIAL FEATURE

Beyond Flanders Fields First Blood

The Jalandhar & Ferozpur Brigades of the Lahore Division (IEF-A) were the first to land in France to a rapturous welcome by the locals.

Amongst them were regiments that traced their blood lines to the kingdom of Punjab, having been raised at the end of the Anglo Sikh wars from the disbanded Khalsa regiments. By the end of August the BEF had been forced to retreat from the Belgian town of Mons, and by October they were on the verge of collapse as Germany pressed on with superior infantry and artillery.

The Kaiser had commanded his troops to “take Calais at all costs”; the key port of the English Channel was a lifeline to the new British army and the Canadians that were being staged to enter Europe. The IEF would arrive just in time to shore up the BEF assuming control 1/3 of the British line, the last line of defense before Calais.

With the fate of the ports and the BEF in their hands the IEF-A would not falter. Seizing the moment to prove themselves the equal of any European, the Punjabis stood stoic in the face of a mighty German advance.

By the end of November 1914, the First battle of Ypres had been won. With the German advance thwarted, the opposing armies would dig themselves in, completing a series of trenches that stretched south from the Flanders coast to Switzerland. This Western Front would remain more or less in place for the remainder of the war. IEF-A would go onto fight the 2nd Battle of Ypres in April 1915 alongside the Canadians, who, with Calais secure, began landing in France at the end of December 1914. The Canadians would also find their moment in time here on the northern end of the Western Front, at Vimy Ridge and Passchendaele (the 3rd battle of Ypres) in 1917.

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IEF-A infantry regiments were withdrawn from the Western Front by the end of 1915 to secure another key win for the British - in the fight against the Ottoman Turks (Germany's ally) Baghdad was deemed an imperative and was assigned to Indian Expeditionary Force D. IEF’s B & C had been deployed against German colonies in Africa; IEF E & F would fight in Sinai & Palestine and the Suez Canal.

IEF G was assigned to Gallipoli – echoing a chapter in the IEFA story – the gallantry & sacrifice of IEF G 14th Sikhs regiment would be lost to time even as the Australians went on to mark that campaign annually as their nation's founding moment. By war's end more than 1 million Indians had served overseas in the 'Great War for Civilization' and more than 74,000 fell for King and empire, an empire within which they sought dominion status.

Lest We Forget

On the centennial of WW1, we need to honour all soldiers of the King that fought for empire & British civilization, a civilization that provided the foundations of the freedoms and democracy we all enjoy today in Canada. As Punjabis we need to honour our brave jawans that fell in this the 'Great War for civilization'; the all volunteer Indian army won more than 11,000 awards for valour, of which nearly 5,000 were British (including 11 Victoria Crosses) and over 500 European, while upholding the the Izzat of India on a global stage. This is a history shared between the mainstream and our minority. It is a dialogue around the ties that bind; a common heritage to build upon, a foundation for a joint future within a multicultural Canada.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

STEVEN PUREWAL

Steven Purewal, is a community historian and lives in Surrey BC with his wife, Zeena and three children- Sophini, Angelyca, and Tzari. Steven is the founder of Indus Media Foundation a Non Profit organization focused on the promotion of progressive inter-community dialogues and Punjabi culture.

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“The Indian Army Corps was to be pitted against the most powerful military organisation on the globe, against a European enemy who had brought to the highest pitch of sinister perfection both the science and the practise of war, and who was about to plunge not Europe alone, but the entire civilized world, into such a welter of continuous devilry and horror as the mind of man had never imagined and history had never known, The landing of the two Indian Divisions, numbering 24,000 men, on the quays of Marseilles in September and October 1914, was a great event, not merely in the annals of the Indian Army , but in the history of mankind.

That the Indian Expeditionary Force arrived in the nick of time, that it helped to save the cause both of the Allies and of the civilization, after the sanguinary tumult of the opening weeks of the War, has been openly acknowledged by the highest in the land, from the Sovereign downwards…The nature and values of the service can never be forgotten" - Rt.Hon. Earl Curzon former Viceroy of India the War Cabinet December 1917.

Duty Honour & Izzat The Call to Flanders Fields In collaboration with Simon Fraser University and the Indian ExServicemen’s Society of BC, Indus Media Foundation Canada (IMFC) is producing a series of free events for this fall to highlight the significant contribution Punjabis made to World War 1.

For more information on event dates and lower mainland venues please visit: www.IMFC.org

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BUSINESS

We provide job search and small business tours and one-to-one information sessions for new Canadians who are seeking employment,” ~ Alexis Greenwood, SIIC Coordinator

HELPING NEW IMMIGRANT JOBSEEKERS SKILLED IMMIGRANT INFOCENTRE

F

inding a job in a new city can be an extremely

about their related field in Canada. These guides

long and challenging process, which is

contain vital information such as labour statistics for

on level 4 at Vancouver Library’s Central branch. These

something the Vancouver Public Library’s Skilled

BC, wage expectations for any given job; education

tours come in handy, as newcomers learn about the

Immigrant InfoCentre hopes to change.

requirements and links to credential evaluation

print and electronic sources available to help with the

Funded by the Government of Canada, the

information. They also provide links to professional

job search. “Much of this information is only available

Skilled Immigrant InfoCentre (SIIC) is a virtual

or industry associations and available journals and

through the public library website and is not on Google.

resource centre which helps newcomers to

databases at Vancouver Public Library, which can

We also talk about what the hidden job market is and

Canada with their job search. They do this by

be used to research industries and companies.

how to access it,” says Greenwood.

offering information that is designed to help

“If there is no guide at the SIIC, we will research

New immigrants who are looking for a career change

immigrants make the most of their skills and

the industry or profession and share the resources

and are unsure where to start can turn to the SIIC’s

expertise in the Canadian labour market. Located

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Career Explorer Program. Offered twice a month, this

at Vancouver Public Library’s Central Branch at

“Anyone interested in finding information on their

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the resources to explore career options.

In addition, the SIIC has also created a number

“I am always very pleased when I hear from patrons

“We provide job search and small business

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who tell us they have taken the SIIC program and guide

tours and one-to-one information sessions for

immigrants who want to learn more about the

information and have used it to find employment or

new Canadians who are seeking employment,”

careers which have transferable skills and a shorter

explore careers,” Greenwood says. “A number of new

explains Alexis Greenwood, the SIIC Coordinator.

training period. “We also have guides on credential

immigrants have let me know that they have been

“To support this process we have created detailed

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employment guides for over 100 careers, and many

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internships and mentorships, resumes and cover

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to help via email, phone or in person.

letters, and workplace culture.”

Besides the employment guides, newcomers can

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careers, the SIIC employment guides are a great

that SIIC offers. Every Wednesday and Thursday

starting point for immigrants looking to learn more

between 2.30 pm – 4 pm, a free, drop-in tour is held

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Vancouver Public Library Central Library, Level 4, 350 West Georgia Street

Phone: 604-331-3603 www.skilledimmigrants.vpl.ca

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SPORTS EXCLUSIVE

It's obviously a very meaningful role. It's a great connection for me to the game I love and obviously to the fans that have meant so much to me over the years. It's a pretty special place to be.�

By Ashley Stephens

T

TREVOR

LINDEN

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Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

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revor Linden has a goal for the Vancouver Canucks. And it's probably the same goal as every Canucks fan.

Linden wants to see Vancouver win the coveted Stanley Cup. But, unlike most fans, he's just been given a second chance to help make that happen.

After a disappointing 2013-2014 season, Vancouver saw their hockey team in desperate need of changes both on and off the ice. Those changes began quickly and, within days, former Vancouver Canucks captain and fan favourite Trevor Linden was named President of Hockey Operations.

DARPAN had the exclusive opportunity to speak with Linden, the man who has been tasked with reenergizing a team in need of a turnaround, about his return to Vancouver, the moves he's made in the off season and what he sees for the future of his beloved team.

For someone who inherited a huge responsibility and has had a lot to do in just several months, Linden's demeanour doesn't reflect the pressure he faces despite knowing exactly what the city of Vancouver and Canuck fans expect from him. Linden has been here before – in a position to carry his team to the Cup, in a position heavily scrutinized by a

PHOTO: THe vancOuver canucks/jeff vinnick

DARPAN had the exclusive opportunity to speak with Linden, the man who has been tasked with reenergizing a team in need of a turnaround, about his return to Vancouver, the moves he's made in the off season and what he sees for the future of his beloved team. demanding city that can quickly turn when wins aren't coming their way. As captain of the Canucks from 1990 to 1997, Linden's used to leading the team on the ice but this time; he'll be leading the rush without lacing up his skates.

There is almost a calmness – and surely a contentedness – in his voice at the mention of his return to the Canucks after he retired from playing in 2008. “This organization has always meant a tremendous amount to me in my life, in my family's life,” Linden says and quickly corrects himself. “Not only this organization but the city of Vancouver and the province of B.C. and so it's great to be back. To be involved in hockey and representing the hockey fans of British Columbia...is a tremendous privilege.”

It's clear he doesn't take the position lightly and knows it's a huge responsibility, especially considering his past, but he speaks as if he couldn't possibly have been anywhere else except back with the team that has given him so much.

“It's obviously a very meaningful role. It's a great connection for me to the game I love and obviously to the fans that have meant so much to me over the years. It's a pretty special place to be.”

Reminiscing aside, Linden didn't waste any time getting down to business. His first significant addition to the team came with the hiring of Jim Benning as general manager. “Jim brings a wealth of knowledge when it comes to two areas: scouting – amateur scouting and pro scouting – and team building. I think that's where Jim's strengths really lie,” Linden says.

Despite his strengths, Benning's hiring didn't come without some debate which Linden isn't afraid to discuss. “People have always said he's a rookie general manager and yes, there's no

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DARPAN SPORTS

question that he is,” Linden tells DARPAN in defence of his new GM. “But I consider him to have a tremendous amount of experience.

Over twenty five years in hockey, assistant general manager in Boston for the last 8 years as an integral part of building that team, and his involvement in Buffalo was about building teams; he's got a wealth of experience.”

Coincidently, the new head coach of the Canucks and Linden's second significant hire is also a rookie in his new role.

“The one criteria I had from a coaching standpoint was to find someone who was a career coach and Willie's coached at every level,” Linden explains about the addition of Willie Desjardins to the team, citing his previous experience at the NHL level as an assistant coach as well as his championship winning season with the American Hockey League's Texas Stars.

He goes on to speak about Desjardins with a confidence that seems necessary considering the short, one season tenure of the last head coach to stand behind the bench for the Canucks.

“He's a guy that has the ability to connect with people. I think he is going to bring the best out of our team and that was something that was really important – that we find a coach that can recapture some of the players that we feel we lost last year and get them on the right track.”

So if Desjardins’s job is to recapture some of the players that the team appears to have lost,

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DARPAN

This organization has always meant a tremendous amount to me in my life, in my family's life,” Linden says and quickly corrects himself.

“Not only this organization but the city of Vancouver and the province of B.C. and so it's great to be back. To be involved in hockey and representing the hockey fans of British Columbia...is a tremendous privilege.” what about the fans and the city who feel they have been let down by an under-performing team? Linden knows there is a lot of work to do in that department, too.

“Ultimately, it was a tough year for everyone involved last year – the fans, the media, players, management,” Linden says, referring to the disappointing season that saw the Canucks fail to make the playoffs for the first time in six seasons. “For anyone who has connected with the team or cared about the team, it was a tough year. And so we want to bring a team back that is fun to watch and bring some excitement back to Rogers Arena. We want to have a team that connects with the fans, a team that people can identify with.”

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And he's not all talk. Linden and his management team spent the summer making moves that have already changed the face of the organization that fans were falling away from.

“Our goal this year is to make the playoffs,” he says with conviction. “And obviously we've changed. We've certainly made some significant changes, not only with the general manager position and the coaching position but also personnel wise. Trading Ryan Kesler was a significant move for us and so it's really changed the mix on our team,” Linden says, addressing the elephant in the room without expanding on the played-out trade of the offseason.

“I think we've gotten younger, I think we're a deeper club but, ultimately, as tight as the Western Conference is, we want to make the playoffs. And if we can make the playoffs, it gives us a chance to compete for the Stanley Cup – that's our goal.”

When asked if the changes have them closer to that goal than they have been in previous years, Linden's amiable attitude turns candid as he divulged how tough of a task he faces.

“You know what? It's not easy,” he shared.

“But there's two things we really want to accomplish; we want to try to get back some of the players that we feel underperformed last year and get them back to where we feel they should be.”

While Linden refrained from naming names, much has been said about the dynamic duo from Sweden, twins Daniel and Henrik Sedin who, despite signing extensions with the club for four more years, had some of the worst seasons in their NHL history.

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DARPAN SPORTS Linden may have felt protective about the underperforming players of the past but he was quick to offer up which new additions to the Canucks he hopes will make a significant impact. “Whether it be Nick Bonino, Derek Dorsett, Linden Vey, Luca Sbisa, Ryan Miller – these are all players that are going to help us get to that next step.”

With the mention of Ryan Miller, it seemed the right time to ask Linden about the goaltending situation. For any fan of the team, discussing who stops the shots is a bit of a bone of contention. The Canucks have not been without controversy when it comes to their goalkeepers yet you wouldn't know it when talking to Linden. “I think that Jim identified the goaltending position as the most important position on the team and you don't stand a chance if you can't get consistent saves,” he says. “And we're going to have real depth in goal.”

He's careful with his words but it's obvious he has confidence in his current keepers. “We think the world of Eddie Lack,” he says, referring to the Swedish Stork who became the starting goaltender after spending most of the season as the backup.

“He had a tremendous year last year and took a big step. We wanted to give him as much support as we could and [we did that with] bringing in Ryan.

[Jacob] Markstrom is another young guy that has got a lot to learn but we really feel strongly about our goaltending position and we felt that was key coming into the season.”

While Linden doesn't specifically address how the three goalies will work together or what the addition of Miller means for each of them, he's not worried about any controversy or collapses in goal.

As a former player in the city and one who played through a Stanley Cup final loss, Linden knows that he's under an incredible amount of pressure to perform. “It's pretty easy for the experts to look at the depth charts right now and say, oh this team is better than that team,” he says, speaking directly to the fans that may have concerns. “But at the end of the day, the game is played on the ice. And that's what we have to do better than others. We have to execute our game plan better. And if we can do that, if we can get the most out of our players and play as a real cohesive unit, we're going to be fine. And that's the challenge right now; it's to bring this group of players together and have them perform as well as they can as a team.”

Speaking with Linden is refreshing, as both a fan of his and a fan of the Canucks. He speaks with passion about hockey, about his team and about what he is trying to do in his newest role in Vancouver. He's trying to turn the team he so obviously loves into one the fans can begin to love again as well. For a team that needs something to believe in again, the return of 'Captain Canuck' might just be it.

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It's who you are, not what you do

By Ashley Stephens

DOES

YOUR

PERSONALITY

WORK FOR

P

ersonality is difficult to define; its definition often varies among theorists and psychologists based on their own studies and can vary depending on the angle taken to examine it. Most theories identify personality as a consistent set of traits unique to an individual that control and cause one's actions and reactions which are expressed through thoughts, feelings and behaviours.

Sound complex? That's because it is. Often confused with character or temperament, personality encompasses so much about a person – their emotions, their preferences, their pastimes, their interactions – that it is impossible to sum up someone in just one word or with one characteristic. Describing a personality can be just as complex as describing the word itself.

With multiple definitions come a multitude of ways to test, measure and classify personality. One widely accepted system of classification divides an individuals' personality into two types: extrovert and introvert.

This categorization examines one's behaviours and attitudes towards the outside world and oneself. It is most often believed to exist on a single continuum with one side more dominant than the other.

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So are you extroverted or introverted?

Extroverts are energized by other people and outside experiences. They are outgoing, enthusiastic and talkative. Extroverts seek out social interaction, becoming more energized as they interact and tend to be bored when they have to be by themselves.

They are naturally themselves in large social settings and take pleasure in being with other people.

Introverts, on the other hand, prefer to spend their time completing solitary activities or in the company of small groups or with close friends. This doesn't mean they dislike being social; introverts may love being around others but it is most often draining for them. This drain of energy is what causes most introverts to enjoy – and require – their alone time.

Unfortunately, the word introvert itself often carries a negative connotation. Being introverted isn't synonymous for socially awkward, shy, or lonely. It's simply the tendency to be predominately concerned with one's own mental life. This in contrast to extroverts ho thrive off what is outside the self instead.

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“Most people have a misunderstanding of the definition,” explains Alan Kearns, founder and head career coach of Career Joy. “Introverts like to recharge by themselves and extroverts recharge with people.”

So does being an introvert or an extrovert matter? Well, yes and no. These personality indicators may dictate how you act in situations and how you react to people but they don't necessarily predict how successful you may be or what you may be good at. They may, however, explain why you are happier completing certain tasks or prefer to attend particular events.

“It's understanding what [introversion and extroversion] means and then understanding how to manage it. It's leveraging whatever style you're more strongly aligned with,” says Kearns.

When it comes to the working world, extroverts tend to thrive in industries that require outgoing and confident individuals.

Extroverted individuals don't have trouble verbalizing their concerns and can move on from them as they are dealt with. Many environments are more suited to those who work better with an audience, when leading a team or in a busy workplace. They often succeed in jobs that have a high level of interactions with others throughout their days which may include networking, interacting with customers and group work.

Those with extroverted tendencies may excel as managers, teachers, sales people, politicians and in jobs that require them to build relationships, solve conflicts, or communicate to large groups.

DARPAN FEATURE Introverts tend to thrive in industries that require independence. They are usually great listeners and require little social interaction to be satisfied in their jobs. They tend to observe before participating and think before speaking, a beneficial quality depending on the situation.

Quick conflict resolution may not be their strong suit as much thought is required before responding. Introverted individuals often succeed in jobs that demand extensive alone time or an increased amount of computer work such as researching, reporting or analyzing.

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Many introverts are artists, writers, engineers and inventors and excel in careers that involve working with tools, working online or working on one activity at a time.

While it's easy to default to a certain type and use it as an excuse, Kearns cautions against this way of thinking. “Personality is often overrated in workplace strategy and ability is often underrated,” he says. “Career choices are often made with a very strong sensibility around personality but less sensibility around ability.

You have to integrate both. Both need to work at work.”

“Introverts can make very good leaders,” notes Kearns, “but people think that the extrovert is always a leader. That said, you need to pay attention to your style, you need to honour your style, you need to work with your style. Leverage it.”

But don't be too quick to judge someone – or yourself – based on what personality type an online quiz reports that you are. “We make huge life choices based upon two letters: I or E,” says Kearns. “But we are multidimensional people and you have to understand the full complete person: their personality and their abilities.”

It's important to remember that introversion and extroversion are just one of the many ways to describe one's personality. Being an introvert doesn't mean you're just like all other introverts, and, consequently, it doesn't mean you will only succeed in jobs that seem suited to the introverted type. Assessing what brings you satisfaction, what fits with your lifestyle and what your strengths may be are more important than fitting a certain type or living up to a label.

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/pinkorchidstudio

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he award winning artists Shannon Mann and Harp Sohal are the co-founders of the renowned Pink Orchid Studio, which provides clients high fashion makeup art, hair design and styling services for the important events in their lives. Specializing in South Asian bridal hair, makeup, and dressing services, their dream team is in high demand in the Lower Mainland and they are also booked to style brides for destination weddings all over the world.

Pink Orchid Studio is renowned for its exemplary customer service as Mann and Sohal strive to create a comfortable, stress free environment for their clients.

They do this by taking the time to get to know their clients through consultations. Acknowledging that every client has a unique style, they listen and ask a lot of questions to ensure that each client is given a look based on her individual personality and wants.

During the appointment itself, the Pink Orchid team describes the atmosphere as light hearted and fun.

“We chat about pop culture or family politics to make the clients feel at ease. We listen to music, we have special playlists too depending on the occasion,”

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Mann explains. “But inside we do take our jobs quite seriously; we put a lot of effort to ensure our clients look great. If there are any clothing or jewellery malfunctions, we handle it very calmly to ensure our clients are at ease.”

Besides providing a high quality hair and makeup service, Mann and Sohal are also there for their clients emotionally, providing brides everything they may need on their big day, from pep talks to jewellery advice. “The relationship is not over once the service is done,” says Sohal. “We become invested. We don’t just pin the chunni and leave. We leave our client when she leaves her home for her wedding venue. They also have our personal phone numbers and we are on standby [for the rest of the day] in case of emergency”.

This level of care and detail has made Pink Orchid Studio one of the most sought after hair and makeup companies in Canada and they currently have bookings all the way into 2017. “Most bridal remaining vendors and venues based on availability,” shares Sohal. “We still pinch ourselves and think ‘is TM

(L-R) Harp Sohal, Shannon Mann this really happening’?”

Mann and Sohal have also been recognised by popular vote and expert panels alike, which have led to over 11 awards over the years. Last year in 2013, they won ‘Best Wedding Hair Style’ at the Professional BC Wedding Awards 2013 as well as ‘Best Wedding Makeup Artist’ and ‘Best Wedding Hair Designer’ in all of BC by the Wedding Industry Expert Awards. More recently, they were awarded the title of ‘Most Popular Hair and Makeup Service’ in the world by the Wedding Industry Expert Awards 2014.

“These awards mean so much to us especially as these awards are open to all artists in BC regardless of ethnicity, and we feel Pink Orchid Studio has really elevated the visibility of the Indian bridal industry on a national and international stage,” Mann and Sohal say. Lastly they were also recognized in 2013 by the South Asian community as they took home the award

Wedding Awards.

In addition, they have also expanded their

BUSINESS

business to Calgary. Pink Orchid now has six teams of bridal specialists in BC and Alberta. “We have the world’s greatest staff,” says Sohal. “They share the same love and dedication for what we do.” Mann and Sohal train and mentor their staff to create the award winning looks that Pink Orchid Studio has become famous for. They have also expanded their product line from clip in hair extensions and eyelashes to carrying signature lipstick colours and lip glosses.

“Our products are available online on our website and select retailers,” Sohal adds.

However, Mann and Sohal did not achieve this success overnight; it was the result of many years of hard work and dedication. “Some people ask what our secret is. There’s no secret. The only secret to success is hard work,” shares Mann. “Ask any entrepreneur; to made their job their number one priority. It doesn’t matter what their vocation is, if they want to achieve excellence, they have to give it a 110 percent,” she says. percent into making Pink Orchid Studio the business

it is today. They work 18-hour days and often put aside their personal lives for their clients. Perhaps the greatest testament to their dedication is the fact that both kept a full work load even during their pregnancies. Sohal, who is due shortly with her second child, goes on to explain how her work ethic remains unaffected. “If anything, I gear up even more because [I] have to take a couple of weeks off after the baby is here. But work does not stop.” Juggling motherhood and their ever-expanding business may be tough, but both Mann and Sohal take it in stride. “That’s the reality of our lives, we are working mothers. In a nutshell, our lives are crazy busy, with great projects and blessings alike,” says Mann.

why they aren’t afraid of the competition. “We’re not because there is so much business out there, and if [our students] do well, I’m proud to see they learned from us,” answers Mann.

One of these great projects includes the courses

2013 Winners of Best Makeup Artist & Best Hair Designer in BC, Wedding Industry Experts Awards

Extremely popular and always sold out, these classes allow students to specialize in Indian Bridal. “We hold nothing back, everything is disclosed to our students,” says Mann. “If they want to know how Pink Orchid’s looks are created, our students learn exactly how we do it.” Their extremely straightforward and open attitude towards teaching often leads students to ask

Talented, hardworking and full of passion for what they do, these award winning artists have truly carved a name for themselves in their industry in Canada.

Their next goal is to take Pink Orchid on a global stage and with their drive and determination, that day may come sooner than they expect.

2014 Winner of 'Most Popular Hair and Makeup Service' - Worldwide, Wedding Industry Experts Awards

2013 Winner of Best Wedding Hair & Finalist for Best Wedding Makeup, BC Wedding Awards 2012 Winner of Best Wedding Makeup & Finalist for Best Wedding Hair, BC Wedding Awards 2013 Winner of Best Wedding Makeup & Finalist for Best Wedding Hair, South Asian Wedding Awards

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“Going through separation is a very stressful time in people's lives and I want to assist them in the process by offering legal advice in a compassionate and caring way. After having my own child, I feel I am a better advocate as I can understand the nuances and worries of parents, when it comes to issues of custody and guardianship.”

~ Chandan Sabharwal, Barrister & Solicitor

SABHARWAL LAW GROUP

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Sabharwal Law Group Unit 304-7380 King George Blvd.

Surrey, BC V3W 5A5 Phone: (604) 638 6998 Fax: (604) 638 6088 Email: chandan@sabharwallaw.ca

SABHARWAL LAW GROUP

Delivering legal excellence

S

abharwal Law Group, a leading law firm based in Surrey is dedicated to provide its clients with specialized legal solutions around the clock. With the distinction of applying a constructive approach while fulfilling their client's targets and objectives, Sabharwal Law group is committed to offer pioneering results while adhering to integrity and allegiance.

Chandan Sabharwal, barrister and solicitor, founded 'Sabharwal Law Group' and comes with an extensive experience of over six and a half years in the industry.

Considering the fact that Family law is a very emotionally charged area of law, where clients emotions are involved, Sabharwal Law Group is able to provide objective and clear advise while providing personalized, professional and resultoriented services. “Going through separation is a very stressful time in people's lives and I want

to assist them in the process by offering legal advice in a compassionate and caring way.

After having my own child, I feel I am a better advocate as I can understand the nuances and worries of parents, when it comes to issues of custody and guardianship,” says Chandan.

Sabharwal Law Group’s skills are particularly suited to the needs of those clients who demand quick and specialized professional services.

Their commitment in leveraging these competent services in family law is reflected in their mandate- Every problem has a solution and we will find it for you. “In a way this is my mantra in everyday life, I truly believe that every problem has a solution, and through a calm mind, positive thinking and strategic planning, every problem can be resolved,” this experienced lawyer states confidently.

Born and raised in Vancouver, BC, Chandan received the first six years of her primary education in India and is fluent in reading, writing and speaking Hindi, Punjabi & English.

This dedicated barrister and solicitor pursued law school at UBC and followed her dream to become a successful lawyer. “I am very fortunate to be living my dream. I wanted to litigate cases and appear in court and really enjoy the litigation aspect; however, I am able to provide assistance in reaching out of court settlements as well,” she explains. But why did she want to envisage on a venture of her own?

Chandan replies it was her vision to create something of her own in pursuance to deliver legal excellence and practical solutions.

When not working, Chandan prefers to spend

her time running or devoting her hours to family and friends. Travelling is also something she likes to engross her time in. As a mother of an 18month-old daughter Mehar, who Chandan describes as the centre of her and her husband’s world, this successful lawyer says she “is blessed to have a very supportive family and an extremely supportive husband.”

This competent law firm adamantly advocates for its clients, while being compassionate to their situation. Its hard work and dedication in finding the appropriate resolution, whether that is through out of court settlements or by way of litigation in court certainly sets them apart. Moreover, having knowledge of the language and the culture enables Sabharwal Law Group to provide better services within its community, while keeping sensitivity to cultural nuances abreast. “In my line of work it is hard not to take your work home with you,” Chandan says. In a field of law as intricate as family law, Sabharwal Law Group is able to provide objective and clear advice while offering compassion and empathy to clients and their circumstances.

Sabharwal Law Group, as a competent law firm is driven by a high level of ethics while upholding the highest standards of legal profession. Chandan wishes to expand her firm into a team of counsel in the future with like minded individuals while sticking to their mandate- Every problem has a solution and we will find it for you. As for the firm, Chandan wishes to “create a work environment that is positive and productive and [that] can enable us to maintain a healthy balance of work and family life.”

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BUSINESS

innovative approach called e-learning or online learning is the future of education. "It is evident in the evolution of the classroom over the past 50 years. Teachers used to use blackboards with chalk and erasers, it then evolved to whiteboards and markers, then to overhead projectors and power-point, and now to smart boards and iPads. It is very important to understand which direction education is evolving so we can better suit our learners and help facilitate their growth," explains Avneet. ”Just think, when was the last time you picked up your smart-phone or laptop to search a how-to video, plan a trip, or learn about history? When was the last time you looked through the encyclopedia set that your parents bought for you when you were in school? I know for me, it has turned into beautiful room decor rather than a source of knowledge.

Nowadays we simply 'Google' information because it's fast, up-to-date, and mostly reliable. " More importantly, advancements in educational technology has allowed teachers to have a better understanding on how their students learn. "Beyond DL teachers play an integral role of being a coach and facilitator versus the primary source of knowledge," says Avneet, "Our programs introduce a new progressive way of teaching with interactive lessons, individualized assessments, visuals, and tools that excite students to love learning."

There are students who excel in certain subjects but may not have the opportunity at their neighborhood school to move ahead in that subject area.

For example, if a Grade 10 student is a math whiz and wants to complete his/her math curriculum at a faster pace, the student has the opportunity to take advanced math classes and complete their education faster.

“Beyond DL programs are perfect for all students who love interactive learning material,” says Avneet.

Avneet Gill-Dhaliwal

“Students who may be struggling in their current

Administrator, Beyond DL School

school environment, homebound students and even

Learning is Evolving Are You Keeping Up With the Times?

T

raditional learning is evolving and everyone is

before they know how to speak properly! These

evolving with it. Learning in this day and age

online platforms are revolutionizing the way stu-

is visual, interactive and available at the click of a

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Avneet, a BC certified teacher who has been in the education field for over 10 years, established

Nowadays you will see nearly every student with

Beyond Distributed Learning School (Beyond DL)

an iPod, iPad, or some sort of technology they are

as a way to offer cutting edge Ministry Of Education

interacting with. We have witnessed that some chil-

approved online courses to BC students in Grades

dren have learned how to use this technology even

8-12 at no charge. She believes the relatively new

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lenged further. We offer both part time and full time course options. We provide the same course curriculum offered at any high school except DL courses are online and highly interactive where the student is in the driver seat to dictate the pace of the material."

dents learn.

button," says Avneet Gill-Dhaliwal, Administrator of Beyond Distributed Learning (DL) School.

students who would like to get ahead or be chal-

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DARPAN NEWS

IN PICTURES

PHOTOS: Raymond Kam photography

Singing Sensation Shreya Ghoshal thrills Bollywood fans in Vancouver Popular Bollywood singer Shreya Ghoshal thrilled the audience with her magical voice at a concert held at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre in Vancouver on August 30th. Winner of several national awards, Ghoshal sang popular numbers from the olden days along with some peppy tunes from today. This versatile singer is known for singing beautifully in different languages including Bengali, Gujarati, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Punjabi, Assamese, Bhojpuri, Kannada, Marathi, Konkani and English.

Punjabi Mela in Vancouver 2014 The third annual Punjabi Mela was held at the Walter Moberly Park at the corner of Ross Street and 61st avenue in Vancouver on August 10th. The event brought together members from the South Asian community that were treated with an evening of Punjabi songs, dance and appetizing delicacies.

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An evening with the Punjabi Poet Surjit Patar On August 18th, the renowned Punjabi poet Surjit Patar delighted the audience with his poetry at the Grand Taj Banquet Hall in Surrey. Patar enchanted the audience with his old and new creations of poetry at the event where several community members were present. Singer Dev Dildar, also sang some of Patar's poetry during this magical evening.

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NEWS IN PICTURES

Overseas Friends of Bharatiya Janata Party PHOTOS: Chandra Bodalia

The Overseas Friends of Bharatiya Janata Party (OFBJP) celebrated the 67th anniversary of Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Independence at the Surreyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bombay Banquet Hall on Friday, attend the event as the guest of honour. The evening was also in celebration of new leadership, as the BJP party saw a landslide win with a record majority. OFBJP recently launched its Vancouver chapter, in order to connect with the Indian diaspora and their mandate is to bridge the gap between mainland Indians and those living abroad, in an effort to re-kindle pride for their motherland.

Barj Dhahan hosts reception for Rai Azizullah Khan Barj S. Dhahan, founder and president of Sandhurst Group of Companies hosted a reception for Rai Azizullah Khan at his residence. Khan is a former Member of Parliament in Punjab, Pakistan, and was delighted to be at the reception hosted

by Dhahan.

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8th Annual Ramadan Spirit Food Drive 2014 The Pakistan Canada Association (PCA) hosted their 8th annual Ramadan Spirit Food Drive to provide for the homeless of Vancouver, as Ramadan is known for being a time of

Carnegie Centre at Main and Hastings Street on July 25th.

Surrey-Newton Rotary Club elects New President Kultarjit S. Thiara was named the new president of the Surrey-Newton Rotary Club at a celebratory ceremony at Grand Taj Hall in Surrey. Thiara, who was the founding member of the club, was sworn in during the event and is looking of Surrey-Newton is a local chapter of Rotary International, an organization which provides humanitarian services, encourages high ethical standards in every vocation and helps build global goodwill and peace.

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CELEBRITYNEWS

IN PICTURES

‘Happy New Year’ Trailer Launch Happy New Year is an upcoming 2014 Bollywood action comedy Khan and produced by Gauri Khan under the banner of Red Chillies Entertainment. cast which includes Deepika Padukone and Shah Rukh Khan in the leads with supporting roles

by Abhishek Bachchan, Boman Irani, Sonu Sood & Vivaan Shah.

Sushmita Sen stuns the runway at LFW Former Miss Universe, Sushmita Sen walked the Lakme Fashion Week (LFW) in India's showbiz capital Mumbai. The Bollywood diva looked stunning in a black gown with a transparent back as the showstopper for designer Aman Aggarwal.

Lakme Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2014 will conclude on August 24.

Priyanka Chopra visits ‘Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 7’ Priyanka Chopra visited the sets of the dance reality show ‘Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 7’, ‘Mary Kom.’ Also seen here are Madhuri Dixit, Karan Johar and Manish Paul.

Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh walked the runway for designer Arjun Khanna in all whites on Day 4 of the LFW. He later tweeted about the show saying, "Now that !! was a kickazz! Show [sic]".

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Stroke is a 911 medical emergency so every second counts and recognizing the warning signs is vital.

In order to help a loved one, you need to be able to recognize the warning signs as taking action quickly is extremely crucial.

A

global killer, strokes claim nearly 15 million people worldwide every year and in Canada, six percent of all deaths are attributed to it, making it the third leading cause of death in the country.

A stroke occurs by a disturbance or stoppage in the blood flow to the brain, depriving it of oxygen. There are two main types of stroke: hemorrhagic stroke caused by the rupture of a blood vessel and subsequent bleeding, and ischemic stroke caused by blood clots.

A TIA or transient ischemic attack, also known as a "mini stroke", occurs when clots hinder blood flow. A stroke can happen to anyone at any age, in fact, a 2014 Heart and Stroke foundation report states that more young people are having strokes and this trend is expected to rise. Strokes usually happen without warning so it is best to be prepared and know what they are, the risk factors and the warning signs.

EFFECTS The effects of a stroke vary depending on where the brain was injured and how much damage occurred but a stroke significantly impacts physical, cognitive and emotional functioning such as difficulty with speech, vision, memory, concentration and moving.

For example, a stroke on the left hemisphere of your cerebrum leaves a weakness or paralysis on the right side of your body while a stroke on the right hemisphere of your cerebrum leaves the left side of your body weak or paralyzed.

Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability as most stroke survivors recover to some extent but must undergo extensive rehabilitation. With the help of a team of health professionals known as the stroke team, an individual's rehabilitation may include relearning self-care skills such as dressing, eating and bathing, learning how to walk again, communication skills, thinking skills to improve concentration and memory as well as social skills to help interact with others.

By Sabrina Pannu

STROKE

THE

SILENT According to Deborah Rusch, Manager of Survivor Support at the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the foundations’ new priority is “to promote recovery by enhancing support for survivors and caregivers and aims to increase quality of life and risk factor management.”

They achieve this through their Living with Stroke program which is designed to aid stroke survivors and caregivers in improving their quality of life. This 8-week volunteer-run program is free in many B.C. communities.

With the lengthy and tiring journey of recovery, programs like these inspire hope and help survivors gain confidence in dealing and coping with the immense challenges of living with stroke.

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DARPAN HEALTH Warning Signs Stroke is a 911 medical emergency so every second counts and recognizing the warning signs is vital. In order to help a loved one, you need to be able to recognize the warning signs as taking action quickly is extremely crucial. A helpful acronym to remember all the signs of a stroke is FAST, which stands for:

F A S T

All services are free, confidential and available in English and Punjabi.

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ace drooping: Does one side of a persons face droop if he or she tries to smile? rm weakness: If the person raises their arms does it stray downward?

peech difficulty: Does simple speech sound slurred or strained?

ime to call 911: If any of the above signs are observed by you, it’s time to call emergency medical services.

According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the five signs of stroke are weakness, trouble speaking, vision problems, headache and dizziness. If an individual’s stroke is being caused by a blood clot, doctors are only able to administer the clot-busting drugs required within a few hours after symptoms begin; therefore, time is of the utmost essence.

Brain cells die at an accelerated rate, about two million per minute after a stroke’s onset thus "time lost is literally brain lost".

Kuldip Gill, Counsellor and Prevention Specialist

Risk factors Age, gender, ethnicity, family history, and history of stroke or TIA are considerable risk factors which greatly increase your chance of stroke and are unfortunately, all uncontrollable factors. Most strokes occur to people over the age of 65 and more women than men die of stroke. Having a close family member who has had a stroke greatly increases your risk and if you had a mini-stroke, chances of reoccurrence is exponential. The good news is that there are several risk factors that you can control to decrease your chances of having a stroke, whether you have the disposition or not. These include hypertension, high blood cholesterol, smoking, atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat), obesity, lack of exercise, diabetes and stress.

South Asians at Risk Research shows that South Asian people (those of Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Sri Lankan origin) are more likely to develop hypertension than the general population. It is especially frightening as hypertension or high blood pressure is another silent killer and is the number one risk factor for stroke. It should

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KNOW THE SIGNS

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come as no surprise then that according to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, "research has shown that people of South Asian descent are at greater risk of developing heart disease and stroke – and at a much earlier age – compared with other ethnic groups."

"It’s true," says Dr. Arun Garg, "the Indian subcontinent population has a greater prevalence to stroke than the general population."

Recipient of the Don Rix Award for physician leadership award in part by his endeavors to increase the South Asian community's awareness concerning their cardiovascular health, Dr. Arun Garg stresses that "prevention is better than treatment and citizens can prevent their risk of a stroke or heart attack with a healthy lifestyle, diet and physical activity."

According to Statistics Canada, Canadians eat about 3400 mg of sodium each day which is more than twice the amount we need. This is a truly terrifying statistic as salt is known to cause hypertension and South Asians typically use

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Reflecting The South-Asian Lifestyle

Quick Prevention Tips Dr. Gulzar Cheema is a family physician and former B.C. cabinet minister for mental health can and be seen on weekly health segments on OMNI TV where he talks about health issues and promotes health awareness

A stroke occurs by a disturbance or stoppage in the blood flow to the brain, depriving it of oxygen. There are two main types of stroke: hemorrhagic stroke caused by the rupture of a blood vessel and subsequent bleeding, and ischemic stroke caused by blood clots.

SPEECH DIFFICULTIES

S

health. Exercising not only lowers high blood pressure but also will make you lose weight and losing as little as 10 pounds can make a real impact in reducing your risk for stroke.

Another modification is to quit smoking.

Not only is smoking extremely detrimental to your health, it can cause a two-fold increase in the risk of stroke. If you have atrial fibrillation (AF) or an irregular heartbeat, you should seek treatment as it may increase the risk of a stroke. Knowledge is power and knowing the risk factors, following your doctor’s advice and adopting a healthy lifestyle are essential steps to take in order to prevent a stroke and live a long and healthy life.

added levels of salt in their cuisine. Rusch says, “Many free hypertension clinics are provided at various temples and festivals. These provide the South Asian public with blood pressure screenings and the ability to get stroke and hypertension prevention information faceto-face.” Additionally, the Heart and Stroke Foundation offers many healthy South Asian recipes on their website and more information about the free clinics can be found online at [www.outhealthisourwealth.ca].

Prevention While it’s true that a stroke can happen to anyone at anytime, learning about its risk factors means you can actively take steps to decrease your risk of stroke. Hypertension is the biggest contributor to increasing risk of stroke so it is essential that you make sure to monitor your blood pressure levels at regular intervals. If it is higher than the normal 120/80 mmHg, seek the advice of a doctor as well as modify your lifestyle and diet. Eating less sodium, avoiding high cholesterol foods, increasing your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables and exercising regularly are all ways to improve your vascular

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to the South Asian community. According to Dr. Cheema the following dietary changes can significantly decrease the risk of stroke.

• Eat whole fruits instead of drinking fruit juice • Make the switch from white to brown rice • Eat whole grain bread instead of white bread • Snack on raw vegetables instead of chips or chocolate • Substitute meat with legumes (dried peas, beans, lentils) two to three times a week • Consume foods rich in fibre such as brussel sprouts, corn, peas, lentils, yams, apples, blueberries, cranberries, oat cakes, wild rice , peanut butter and flax RESTRICT: butter, ghee, full-fat sour cream, full-fat cream cheese, oil-based salad dressings, whole milk and snacks with high fat such as potato chips, cookies, crackers, chocolate bars, doughnuts and Punjabi sweets

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5

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Control Your Portion Sizes

Excessive caloric intake will lead to weight gain, its simple math. Too much in means weight gain. Consuming less calories than you are burning means weight loss. When to eliminate poor choices and the second is controlling portion sizes. There are many ways to control portion sizes such as weighing food or measuring volume. I always advise my clients to keep it simple

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5 Key Pointers to Help You Get Rid of that Stubborn Body Fat.

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ave you been carrying extra pounds longer than you should? Has stubborn body fat got the best of you? Stubborn body fat can be very discouraging especially when you are putting forth a solid effort to eliminate it. If stubborn body fat has stuck around with you longer than you would like then it is time to shed it.

Ridding yourself of body fat will take focus, drive and most importantly determination.

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can do to decrease your body fat level is control your diet. By taking control of your diet, you can start to move your body and metabolism in the right direction. Simple strategies include eating wholesome foods and nothing that is synthetic or pre-packed.

What do I mean by that? Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m glad you asked.

Here is a list of wholesome foods that are naturally occurring in nature. This is the list

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3

Get Regular Exercise

Besides diet, exercise is essential. Not only will it assist in eliminating calories and increasing your metabolic rate, it also has

blood pressure osteoporosis anxiety The frequency of your exercise should be 5 to 7 days a week. Always alternate your sessions with resistance training such as using weights and cardiovascular training, such as riding a bike. Here is what you should be striving for in order to eliminate

Proteins Chicken Breast, Egg Whites, Tuna, Salmon

Starchy Carbs Oatmeal, Sweet Potato, Brown Rice, Chickpeas

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Fats Olive Oil, Canola Oil, Walnuts, Natural Peanut Butter

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5

Get Expert Help!

If you knew what you were doing, you would have probably already achieved a body fat level you are comfortable with. If you have tried and tried in the past and it hasn’t worked out, then clearly something is missing. Perhaps you need more knowledge of how to get better results or perhaps you need more will power. For many people, they sometimes lack the willpower to make a commitment and stick with it. If you seek out professional help, such a personal trainer or a nutritionist, I can assure you that your probability for success increases ten fold. If you get expert help, they will hold you accountable for your actions and review your results weekly or monthly at a minimum. Tap into a professional’s knowledge and you can often achieve years of work in a few months, depending on how serious your goals are.

By improving your diet and exercising regularly, you will certainly improve your health but don’t take my word for it. Recently a client of mine in Toronto had a substantial amount of weight to lose. He had tried almost everything in the past and the results were lacklustre to say the least.

I began working with him in 2011 at 320 lbs and he just recently got married at a chiselled 185. How did he do it you ask? He followed steps 1 through to 5!

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DARPAN BEAUTY

n m u t u A MUST HAVES

Metallics, lashes, lines and complexions are scorching hot during this wintry cold season.

BY SEEMA CHANDRA

C

hilly temperatures, gray skies and plenty of rain are what one can expect of Vancouver during the fall. However, this has never stopped us ladies from sporting our trendy coats, demure collection of boots, striking knit scarves, and adorable autumn hats; all the while toting around our chic and stylish umbrellas. Many mega fashion magazines including Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar are already showcasing fashion “must have’s” for the fall. As fashion and beauty go hand in hand, this season’s hottest “must have’s” for makeup are metallic eye shadows, extreme lashes, a defined eyeline and a flawless complexion.

Metallic eye shadows are showing up on every fall fashion runway. Remember when you were a little girl and used to play with your mothers bright, shiny eye shadows? Well, this

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season’s metallics will definitely take you down memory lane. You can play with coppers, golds, silvers, blues, greens and platinum whites without looking like you crawled back into the early 90’s.

Every single makeup company will be bringing out these colors. However, I always prefer the palettes. You have a variety of different colours in small quantities, so you are seldom stuck with them once the trend of the season is over. MAC is popular for their palettes because you get to choose the eyeshadows you like, while most of the other palettes are pre-set. This can be a little pricy so for the ladies that want to be fashionable

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without breaking the bank, you can try the Metallic Runway eyeshadow palette by Shany cosmetics, which can be purchased online.

What better way to show off those metallic eyes than by accentuating them with lashes. This season, go strong! Try lashes with jewels, daring spider lashes or fun multi-colour and shimmery thick lashes. I am an advocate for MAC especially when it comes to lashes. Their lashes are high-quality and made from human hair. You can purchase full sets of lashes or choose to purchase a half set. If taken care of properly these will last for months and there are many styles and lengths to choose from. Although these can be expensive, the lashes are

PHOTO: VOGUE, COURTESY OF BRANDS FEATURED

extremely comfortable. Ardell is also another great brand.

Their lashes may be synthetic but they are quite comfortable and easier on your wallet.

They don’t last as long as the MAC lashes, however for the price, you can’t go wrong here.

This season is also all about the lines; lining the insides of your eyes and along your lash line.I like to remember the 70’s when women had straight hair parted in the middle, wore rocking bell bottoms and wedges and lined only half of their bottom lashes. This look can be duplicated for this season – the eyeliner only, of course!

Women have lined the insides of their eyes like this for centuries, so I’m surprised that this has just started trending. I like Prestige as a brand. Their eyeliners are easy to use as they apply nicely and seldom smudge. Another great one is Revlon Color Stay. (Although, ‘great’ would be an understatement, it’s absolutely amazing.) It glides on perfectly, does not irritate your eyes and it actually stays on.

We’ve made our eyes look amazing, now its time to wipe off any excess “fall out” from under your eyes and concentrate on making your lovely skin look even better. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, drinking plenty of water, getting enough shut-eye and exercise will contribute to healthy looking skin. However, when life gets stressful, we may not be able to maintain all of that, and that is why makeup is a godsend. A light moisturizer, primer, concealer and foundation will be the key to creating this look. Again as far as concealers go, I would go with MAC but Laurer Mercier Sweet Concealer is also a great contender.

For foundations, I would try a higher end brand to avoid that cakey texture on your skin. Make up Forever has a nice line of foundations as does Estee Lauder. Finish up your look with some powder, blush and a setting agent, whether that is a translucent powder finish or a setting spray. Urban Decay has the All Nighter Setting spray or NYX Matte Finish Setting spray which are both reasonably priced and “hold’ very well.

There is no reason to feel gloomy in these upcoming cold months. But if you do, remember, shiny eyes, thick long lashes that are lined to perfection and gorgeous, porcelain smooth skin are the remedy.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

SEEMA CHANDRA

As a world class traveller Seema Chandra's tastes, look and style have a global influence. She knows the importance of first impressions and looking good on the go. Her love for music, fashion and adventure has given her amazing experiences that she loves to share with her readers.

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DARPAN STYLE

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hat does it mean to be a fashion icon?

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of the fashion greats who was he showcased his collection at inspired Alexander Wang!

A fashion designer brings those elements together to create

with large coats, and walking boots dominating his collection, and silk windbreakers, all in

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By Aman Grewal

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DARPAN RECIPES

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Culinary Fusion Chef Maneet Chauhan

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elebrity Chef Maneet Chauhan always had a passion for all things culinary – and it definitely shows. After working for eight years as the executive chef at Vermilion, an acclaimed Indian-Latin fusion restaurant in New York, she was the first Indian woman to ever compete on the hit US show The Iron Chef and is now an all-time judge on Food Network Channel’s show Chopped. “[I’m also] in the process of opening a restaurant in Nashville called Chauhan Ale and Masala House,” Chauhan says.

Chef Chauhan shares some of her delectable recipes with DARPAN from her first cookbook, Flavours of My World. Taking inspiration from her travels, Chef Chauhan places an Indian twist on classic dishes from around the world, melding familiar Indian flavours in surprising and delicious ways.

Nasi goring, or fried rice, is a national dish of

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Ingredients

Preparation

1 egg, lightly beaten 2 tablespoons (or more) vegetable oil 1 tablespoon panch puran spice mix (equal parts mustard seeds, fennel seeds, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds and onion seeds) 5 shallots, sliced 2 garlic cloves, sliced 3 red chiles, sliced 1 teaspoon dried shrimp paste 1 cup shredded cabbage 1 cup chopped deveined shrimp or sliced chicken 4 cups cold cooked rice 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon sweet soy sauce Cucumber slices, for garnish Tomato slices, for garnish 6 fried eggs, for garnish

Cook the beaten egg in a small amount of oil in a wok. Remove the egg to a plate to cool. Shred the egg using a fork.

Heat the oil in a wok. Add the spice mix. Saute until the spices start to crackle. Add the shallots, garlic, chiles and shrimp paste. Saute until the shallots are tender. Add the cabbage and shrimp. Cook until shrimp are cooked through.

Raise the heat to high. Fluff the rice with a fork and add it to the wok, along with the salt and soy sauce. Add additional oil if needed. Stir-fry until well mixed and heated through.

Garnish each serving with cucumber, tomato, some of the shredded egg and a fried egg.

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DARPAN RECIPES

Chimichurri

Seekh Kebabs Ingredients

Preparation

Chimichurri

For the Chimichurri

1 cup (packed) flat-leaf parsley 1/2 cup olive oil 1/3 cup red wine vinegar 1/4 cup (packed) cilantro 2 garlic cloves 3/4 teaspoon dried red pepper flakes 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon salt

Combine the parsley, olive oil, vinegar, cilantro, garlic, pepper flakes, cumin and salt in a food processor. Process until well blended. Let stand at least 1 hour for flavors to blend.

Kebabs 21/2 pounds (1.25 kg) ground lamb 3/4 teaspoon garam masala 1 teaspoon minced garlic 2 tablespoons cashews, finely chopped 2 small red onions, finely chopped 2 tablespoons Indian black rock salt 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg Sugarcane skewers 2 tablespoons butter, melted 1 teaspoon chaat masala to taste Juice of 1 lemon

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For the Kebabs Combine 1/2 cup of the chimichurri, the lamb, garam masala, garlic, cashews, onions, rock salt and nutmeg. Knead the mixture to combine thoroughly. Form 1/3-cup portions of the mixture into kebabs around sugarcane skewers using wet hands.

Bake the kebabs at 400 degrees for about 8 minutes until nearly done to taste. Baste with the butter and bake until cooked through.

Sprinkle with the chaat masala and lemon juice. Serve hot with the remaining chimichurri on the side.

{ Makes 8 skewers }

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Some call it the City of Lights. Some call it the City of Love. Hemingway once described it as a “Moveable Feast.” It is a city capable of inspiring infinite declarations, but no one will argue when you say that Paris is always a good idea.

By Mormei Zanke

Find Your

Joie De Vivre F

In Paris...

rom strolling down the left bank of the Seine, to tucking into a local café to ordering your steaming cup of café au lait, Paris never ceases to enchant you.

Maybe it’s the interesting overlay of century old history with modern invention, or the way they say mademoiselle. Whatever it is (a certain je ne sais quoi, perhaps?) it proves to be powerfully enthralling.

When you travel to Paris, it’s important to remember that there is no way you can cover everything in one go, especially if your trip is short. However, it is possible to visit several

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areas and still get the quintessential Parisian experience.

First things first, The Eiffel Tower. The 1000-foot tall lattice structure is one of the most distinguishable towers in the world, and for good reason. It’s definitely worth making a visit to the structure to see it up close. Better yet, wait until its dark and at the top of every hour, the tower will greet you with a frenzy of sparkling lights. Champagne bottles pop, cameras flash, and cries of general merriment exude from the passionate crowd.

While you’re at it, be sure to stop and visit TM

all the iconic monuments. Although it may be easy to question all the hype, most are definitely worth seeing. Specifically, Notre Dame and the Arc De Triomphe, which are both impressive in size and feature.

The Notre Dame cathedral was built 700 years ago and has an illustrious history.

Renowned as one of the most famous examples of French Gothic architecture, it was the first building in France to use flying buttresses. From the menacing gargoyles to the rose stained glass, this magnificent church is a sight definitely worth the wait.

The Arc De Triomphe is an important monument in France as it was built to honour the soldiers that fought in the Napoleonic and French Revolutionary wars.

If you wait to ascend until 8 or 9 pm in the evening, the wait time is less than 20 minutes and the views are breathtaking. From the top you can see some of Paris’s most renowned sights, including the Eiffel Tower, Sacré Coeur, the Louvre and the Champs-Élysées.

The Arc is situated at an intersection called the Etoile, which means star. It is named so because 12 main avenues meet at this point, creating an expanse of shimmering light in all directions – a truly beautiful sight.

Once you’ve taken in those spectacular views, it’s time to eat a well-deserved crêpe (Nutella banane anyone?). There are quaint cafés nearly everywhere you go but if you are near The Eiffel Tower, a particularly good one is the Boulangerie Patisserie Tour De Eiffel. They serve traditional French food at a reasonable price and are not as touristy as

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By Kalsi Aluminum Each museum features a vast body of work carefully curated to represent the artwork in their truest form. The Louvre is home to the infamous Mona Lisa smile, the voluptuous Venus De Milo, and striking Victoire de Samothrace. With over a hundred galleries the €10 admission goes a long way. Beware of long line-ups especially on Sundays (which have free admission) and Mondays. Try to avoid mornings, as they are the busiest time.

Nighttime visits are encouraged, with the bonus of seeing the 72 foot glass pyramid lit up at dark.

From strolling down the left bank of the Seine, to tucking into a local café to ordering your steaming cup of café au lait, Paris never ceases to enchant you.

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AUTOLIFESTYLE EVENTS

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Next up, the Musée d’Orsay. The Orsay is all about impressionism. With work from the masters like Monet, Manet, Van Gogh, Renoir, Degas, Cézanne and Gauguin, this is the place to see the landscape paintings we all love. Additionally, if this is the kind of stuff that gets your motor going, the Musée d’Orangerie is a must see. A small museum located in the Tuileries Garden, it was built originally to showcase Claude Monet’s Nymphéas or Water Lilies. The top floor is built to the artist’s exact specifications. The large paintings hang on curved walls in oval rooms and bathe in natural light. Other works at the museum include art from painter Paul

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some of the other restaurants. Many will take advantage of beguiled tourists and charge an arm and a leg. Make sure to check out the menu outside restaurants first to avoid unhappy expenditures!

Now that you’ve feasted, you’ll be ready to take in Paris’s remarkable art history. There are three major museums in Paris that cover three different passages of time. The Louvre contains art from the ancient world to 1850, the Orsay spans from 1848 to 1914 and the Pompidou focuses on 20th century art to present.

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Guillaume as well as Renoir, Matisse and Picasso.

Finally, the Centre Pompidou. This modern art museum is often the one that gets left behind after the big kahunas, but don’t be fooled. This is one of the most interesting buildings in Paris, built “exoskeletally,” the piping, heating ducts and escalator are located on the outside creating an interesting exterior that can be viewed from the large cement courtyard at its base. The artwork is always changing but expect large installations, bright colours and lots of signs that say Cubism.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the history of such a grand place like Paris. Your maps get crinkled; the sticky notes pile up in your travel guide, you can’t remember if it’s pronounced E-fell or Eye-fell. At the end of the day, although you’ll be happy you saw all the main attractions it’s also important to experience the other side of Paris. The baguette-under-your-arm kind of Paris. Take a few days off from traipsing around monuments and waiting in lines, and wander the streets! You’ll be surprised how much history is right there in front of you, no admission required.

Explore arrondissements (districts) like Montmartre home to Sacré-Coeur and the Moulin Rogue. Montmartre is an especially interesting arrondissement in Paris because historically many artists such as Salvador Dali, Modigliani, Picasso and Van Gogh lived in the area and derived inspiration for their work from the picturesque district. Sacré-Coeur, or Sacred Heart is a stunning basilica that sits at the highest point of Paris on the summit of the butte Montmartre.

In Roman Catholicism, it represents ethical standards and is often associated with the concept of a compassionate and loving Christ.

The Moulin Rogue on the other hand, represents the opposite. A cabaret founded in 1889, it was the first place to introduce the can-can dance. Known

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as a greatly seductive style of dance performed by young courtesans of the time, it was a popular site for entertainment. To this day it is a sought after tourist attraction.

If you aren’t tired yet, take a walk through the Marais quarter of Paris and see the Place de la Bastille, shop along the Champs-Élysées, or take a break and read a book at Shakespeare and Company.

The Place de la Bastille might be the most interesting historical site as it marks the spot where the Bastille Prison once stood. Destroyed in the infamous storming of the bastille, its story is the only remnant of the ancient building. In present day, the square is used for concerts and political demonstrations.

The Champs-Élysées is the iconic avenue of Paris, and home to many designer shops and extravagant cafés. The avenue looks on to the Arc de Triomphe at the end of the strip and is a good location for photos of the monument.

Founded in 1959, the celebrated bookstore Shakespeare and Company has been a hub of creativity for English speaking artists in a French dominated city. Flip through a book in the same place where artists like Gertrude Stein, Ernest Hemingway, and James Joyce borrowed books from Sylvia Beach.

Paris is full of endless historical surprises; all you need to do is walk out the door. Step out and experience the beautiful city. No matter what you see or what you do, just being in Paris, in a place so marvelously amorous, you are bound to have a lovely time. So sit back and relax, and experience the joie de vivre!

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Mormei Zanke is a freelance writer in Vancouver.

She also studies English and Biology at the University of British Columbia. She is fascinated by the art of storytelling in all mediums, and is excited to continue creating rewarding work.

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By Tarana Rana

FAMILY-

FRIENDLY

FUN THIS FALL As the back-to-school season rolls in, make sure there is room for some quality family time on those busy schedules! If you’re looking for some ideas, here are a number of fun family friendly activities to check out around the Lower Mainland.

Go on an aerial adventure

Check out a Mid-Autumn Moon Festival Head out down to the Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden on Sunday, September 7th to help usher in the Chinese Moon Festival. An important traditional event, the festival honours the full harvest moon, which is meant to symbolize peace and prosperity.

The festival is also an occasion for family reunions.

From 5 pm – 7 pm, families can enjoy live traditional music and legends of the mid-autumn moon, while munching on delectable moon cakes. After the sun sets, send wishes to the moon by placing floating lotus lanterns in the pond.

Explore the Maritime Museum As the weather gets nippy, museums are just the place to spend a cozy, cultured afternoon with the family. While Vancouver has a handful of museums to pick from, one of my favourites is the Maritime Museum at Vanier Park. The museum’s triangular glass structure was built around St. Roch, the first ship to ever sail through uncharted waters to cross the Northwest Passage and the High Arctic. Kids (and adults) will have a blast exploring this historic ship. You can climb abroad, walk the decks and tour its interior cabins. Children will also have some hands on fun at the Children’s Maritime Discovery centre, where they get to operate a submersible.

Round off the day by checking out some of the museum’s interesting nautical collections and their gorgeous model ships.

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Want to take a breathtaking aerial journey over Canada without actually leaving Vancouver? You can do just that at FlyOver Canada, a new mustsee attraction. This family-friendly flight simulation ride offers spectacular views which are sure to thrill your entire family. The entire experience takes 30 minutes; you first enter the pre-show area where you enjoy an audio-visual show of Canada’s finest scenery.

After a quick pre-flight briefing, you can board the flight deck and soar over iconic Canadian landscapes.

Purchase tickets at FlyOver Canada ticket booths located at Canada Place or get them online at their website (www.flyovercanada.com)

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Get a Taste of Yaletown It’s no surprise that families who regularly dine together are more close-knit. Get in some dinnerbonding time at the 10th annual Taste of Yaletown festival this fall. This dine out festival runs from October 16 – 30 and participating restaurants all over trendy Yaletown will offer a selection of featured menus, at set prices of $25, $35 or $45. This year, the festival will also have lunch menus and a portion of profit from every meal served is donated to the Greater Vancouver Food Bank. Be sure to check their website (www.yaletowninfo.com) on September 23rd for the list of participating restaurants and make reservations at your favourite one!

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Enjoy the Fall Foliage Nothing quite says fall than when the trees are decked out in vibrant shades of red, gold and orange. Take in the stunning fall foliage at Stanley Park and make a day of it. You can bike, rollerblade or just stroll along the scenic Stanley Park Seawall. With its gorgeous views of the mountains and city, this is one of the best spots in Vancouver to take photos – take the opportunity to snap a couple of great family pictures. Feeling hungry?

Head out to the Prospect Point Restaurant for some causal, kid-friendly food or pack your own lunch and enjoy it together at one of the many picnic tables.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

TARANA RANA Tarana Rana has a passion for writing and is currently studying English Literature at UBC. She enjoys exploring the city and discovering some of Vancouver’s lesser known haunts.

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DARPAN HOME

+ A HOME An

in

ORGANIZATION

By Ashley Stephens

Don't let clutter keep you from a successful school year

B

An organized home is an efficient home and the same systems that work for one family might not be what works for yours. By organizing according to what works best for your lifestyle, you will find yourself better able to accomplish what needs to get done in a day.

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ack to school means back to early alarms, back to routines and back to managing busy schedules – but it doesn't have to mean back to being disorganized.

With a new season on the horizon and hectic mornings making their return, keeping your home organized can be the key to good grades when it comes to getting your family out the door on time.

If your home is in need of some cleaning and decluttering, start with a plan. While it may seem like an obvious place to start, knowing what needs to be done, who can help and how it will happen can make the organization process much easier and more efficient. It's harder to stray from a schedule so being able to identify your priorities and carving out time to check things off your list will set you up to succeed.

Elinor Warkentin, professional organizer and clutter consultant at Goodbye Clutter, knows

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that starting the process can be overwhelming.

“I usually say that any start is a step in the right direction but that if [clients] break it into chunks that it will be more manageable,” says Warkentin. “I also suggest that they pick an area or project that they can finish in the time they set aside, for two reasons: one, so that they have a sense of accomplishment, and two, so that they know there will be a finish time.”

With the chaos of a school day in mind, Heather Knittel of Good Riddance Professional Organizing Solutions, Inc suggests making sure that your entranceway is organized before tackling other areas of the home.

“It's the in-and-out-of-the-house part that really bogs people down,” says Knittel. “And I think it's really important for each child to have their own hook - for their coats or their backpacks and their shoes. Each child should have their own zone.

The same should be for when they're bringing

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“One of my best successes with

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getting children involved was to have a ‘contest’ for the whole family, with a prize for the best before and after, plus a prize for who worked the hardest,” recalls Elinor Warkentin, professional organize.

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

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paper in. Keep a basket for each child in the house...somewhere where you can access it fairly quickly.”

An entryway can easily end up like that one junk drawer in your kitchen...but a lot harder to hide. By introducing organizers, hanging calendars and checklists, and assigning space to each family member, you can easily cut down on clutter and make your home more welcoming.

The kitchen is another essential area to keep organized as it's where many families begin their day together. “Waking up to clear counters and a dish free sink is much more welcoming and motivating, than cluttered surfaces and unfinished work,” says Warkentin. “Plus, mornings can be hectic times for families, with children heading off to school and parents to work. When you can find what you need easily, you save time, money, and there is less strain on relationships or relying on one person for finding and organizing everything needed at the last minute.”

Involving children in the organization process can not only make your job as a parent easier but it is also important as it most often involves their possessions.

“It's their own memorabilia,” notes Knittle.

“And if it's important to them, they definitely have to have a lot of involvement in the decision making because it's their stuff, it's their accomplishments. It's also advantageous

to teach children things like [they] don't have to keep it all or to try to be organized, because it's going to affect their school year.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of my best successes with getting children involved was to have a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;contestâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for the whole family, with a prize for the best before and after, plus a prize for who worked the hardest,â&#x20AC;? recalls Warkentin.

Warkentin offers another tip that she uses with her clients called '5 Things A Day.'

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every day I pick up, put away, de-clutter, toss out, give to charity...5 things,â&#x20AC;? she explains. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It could be something small like a safety pin which has fallen on the floor and been ignored for a while, to recognizing an old book on my bookshelf that I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want anymore.â&#x20AC;? Being able to recognize, record and reward your successes with a strategy such as Warkentin's can make home organization more manageable and enjoyable for the whole family.

An organized home is an efficient home and the same systems that work for one family might not be what works for yours.

By organizing according to what works best for your lifestyle, you will find yourself better able to accomplish what needs to get done in a day. Asking yourself about the usefulness or importance of items in your home or re-examining routines that haven't changed may reveal areas in need of reorganization.

When back-to-school means more time spent packing lunches and practicing timetables, you'll want to spend your family time making memories instead of cleaning up clutter. An organized home will help everyone receive a report card they can be proud of.

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QUICK TIPS FOR STAYING ORGANIZED If you don't use it daily, ask yourself if it needs to be out or on display.

Let your kids pick out their clothes on the weekend â&#x20AC;&#x201C; five hooks in a closet for five outfits for the week.

Colour coding â&#x20AC;&#x201C; whether it be clothes, toys, books or storage bins â&#x20AC;&#x201C; makes organization easier for children.

Using clear storage bins in cupboards or closets allows you to quickly see where things belong; cutting down on the time it takes to tidy, find, or restock an item.

Include the whole family's schedules on a large wall calendar that everyone can see so that important dates and appointments can be viewed in advance and aren't overlooked.

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DARPAN Weddings

City of Residence: Vancouver, BC

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“When life gives

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Q: How did you meet?

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Q: What do you love most about one another?

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Q: Please share your proposal story?

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Q: What was your favourite moment at the wedding?

Pricilla:

Roy:

Q: Tell us about your reception?

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Pricilla:

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ACURA MDX

By GLEn KOnOrOWSKI

First and foremost, the MDX is nicely proportioned, making it look more like a station wagon instead of a truck made to look like an SUV. Taking into account that the vehicle is actually a 7-seater, Acura designers have done a great job of not making it look that long.

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ver the years I have never been a big fan of Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) as I have owned a few and generally found them not that much fun to drive. Well the MDX Elite that I just spent some time with has changed a lot of the feelings I have for SUVs. First and foremost, the MDX is nicely proportioned, making it look more like a station wagon instead of a truck made to look like an SUV. Taking into account that the vehicle is actually a 7-seater, Acura designers have done a great job of not making it look that long. I found the straight yet slightly curved styling of the MDX attractive and balanced, which I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t say about a lot of the SUVs on the market.

One of the unique styling touches of the

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MDX is that its ten small, round headlights mounted within the two headlight pods.

When driving at night, three small headlights on each side light up and when the high beams are needed, all ten light up, giving the driver a great view ahead. Since the MDX is a large capacity vehicle, which will carry lots of people and luggage, the headlights will adjust automatically to stay level, a real handy feature.

What makes the MDX move is a single overhead cam 3.6L V6 with variable valve timing with gives the vehicle plenty of power and pull. In fact the MDX has 290 hp and 267 pounds feet of torque allowing it to tow up to 5000 lbs (2268 kg) when properly equipped.

All the power is transferred to the wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission to all four

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wheels. Stopping power is by way 4-wheel disc brakes attached to 18in. alloy wheels.

For those who have to traverse hilly roads and streets might be interested to know that the MDX has a hill start assist. With this feature, the brakes hold momentarily when on an incline, stopping any movement until the vehicle gets moving ahead.

On the road, the MDX was easy to drive in tight traffic or at highway speeds. If you want a bit of a sporty attitude from the MDX, you can use the paddle shifters on the back of the steering wheel to go up and down through the gears. I just generally left it in Drive and let the transmissions computer do all the optimum shifting for me.

As you might suspect, the Elite is the top model and is equipped with just about every option known to man. All controls were easy to reach and some of the vital controls were mounted on the steering wheel. There was a bit of a learning curve when it came to locating all the electronic features provided in the console and dash area, but nothing that could not be learned with experimentation over time.

In the comfortable back seats, your passengers have the option of using the rear heaters as well as entertaining themselves with the built-in ceiling mounted entertainment system. Acura even supplies headphones for two in the back.

The two rearmost seats, I have to say, are geared for children as they barely have any leg room. Also when they are in upright position, storage space is very limited as well. But when these seat are down, cargo space is good for four adults.

Putting money aside, the MDX has to be one of the best people/cargo haulers around. It offers a great ride, class, styling and it really handles well. In fact, my fellow AJAC journalists have picked it as the best SUV over $60,000. My test vehicle tipped the scales at about $66,000 fully equipped.

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FIAT

By GLEn KOnOrOWSKI

Road Test of the

HIGHLIGHTS

Fiat 500c Lounge MSrP: $20,500 Power: 105 at 6500rpm Torque: 406lb. ft. @ 1700rpm

and best of all it is reasonably priced.

Over the years I have driven a few 500s and enjoyed them, but this was the first time with a convertible model. Having the convertible roof made this car even more pleasurable. Even though it is just the centre section that opens, you still have the same open-air sensation you

Fuel economy: 6.7L per 100k city and 5.2L per 100k highway

A

s an automotive journalist I drive plenty of truly exceptional cars, but every once in a while there comes a car that really stands out, despite its price.

For me that car is the Fiat 500. I will admit I love smaller cars, but for me the Fiat 500 just does everything right. It handles really well, is good on gas, is very comfortable

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get in regular convertibles. However, the down side to this type of slide back roof/ convertible is that it does limit your rear visibility directly behind the car. But really, it is a small price to pay for this much fun.

Making all this fun happen is a 1.4L 4-cylinder engine attached to a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. My test

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car had the manual transmission, which was easy to slip in and out of gear. not once did this front drive car lose any traction, unless the engine was really pushed when accelerating from a stationary position. Power is about 105hp and torque is 98lb.ft at 4000 rpm for a car that weighs just 2363lb (1073kg).

Fiat designers went all out to create a fun but functional dash and instrument layout. All the controls are well placed and easy to find and use. The speedometer, tachometer and temperature and gas gauge are all tucked into a single hooded pod in front of the driver.

However, it is a little confusing to read quickly at first, as the speedometer and tachometer sweep around together in the same area.

One area I feel the 500 really excels in is front seat comfort. During the time I had the test car, I did a fair amount of driving and seats were as comfortable as any from the high end exotics, which generally have very good seats. The seats with leather generally come in two-tone, which is really attractive.

The back seats are another matter in the 500.

Here you find seats for adults suitable for short trips.

Something that appears awkward at first sight is the dash-mounted shifter. It appears to be high, but once youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in the car and driving, it is well placed for fast and easy shifting.

My test car was equipped with the GPS option. In this case, the GPS unit has its own built in bracket that fits into a slot in the dash.

When not in use, the unit pops out and can be placed in the glove box.

The convertible I tested listed for $20,500 and was fairly well equipped at around $25,000. But, those on a budget can get into a base convertible for just $16,500, one of the lowest priced open topped cars on the market, and is worth every penny when it comes to fun.

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2015

The Mazda6 returns for 2015 as a fun, fuel-efficient and head turning four-door

2015 MAZDA 6

The Soul of Motion ompletely redesigned and having entered its third generation last year, the Mazda6 returns for 2015 as a fun, fuelefficient and head turning four-door with thankfully few changes.

Embracing the company’s “KODO — Soul of Motion” design theme introduced in 2010 and inspired by the movement seen in animals, the curvy and aggressivelooking Mazda6 makes arguably the best use of the new aesthetic architecture when compared with fellow face-lifted vehicles, the Mazda3 and CX-5. For instance, the sleek headlamps, big grille on the nose and the long and low-slung side profile prove this point.

Mazda did a good job striking a balance between luxury and sport, particularly on the Gran Touring trim press car I was driving. There’s red stitching on the leather seats, polished door handles and dash accents made from real metal and

C

HIGHLIGHTS

By BEnJAMIn yOnG

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MSRP: $35,095 base Motor: 2.5 L four-cylinder Horsepower: 184 @ 5,700 rpm Torque (lb-ft): 185 @ 3,250 rpm Gearbox: six-speed Sport mode automatic transmission with paddle shifters Layout: front-wheel drive Fuel Economy: 8.4 L/100 km city, 5.9 highway (manufacturer estimate)

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auto-levelling HIDs, all which made me feel as though I was driving a much more expensive vehicle.

The 6 has been touted as a class leader in fuel efficiency, and that’s largely due to the proprietary SKyACTIV technology.

Developed to increase engine efficiency and output, everything from the chassis and body components to the drivetrain and pistons have been made to work in harmony.

The result is a 2.5 litre, four-cylinder engine that produces 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, while netting an observed 9.6 L/100 km fuel consumption during my week of driving. not mindblowing performance numbers, but the car is quiet, comfortable, handles well and is overall pleasant to drive.

My GT with the Technology Package also featured the innovative iELOOP system that helps to trap and re-use wasted power.

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Mazda did a good job striking a balance between luxury and sport, particularly on the Gran Touring trim press car I was driving. There’s red stitching on the leather seats, polished door handles

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me feel as though I was driving a much more expensive vehicle.

By using a special alternator and capacitor, energy that is created and usually lost while the car is coasting or braking is stored until it is later needed, for things like the headlights and climate control thus freeing additional strain from the engine.

Getting into the cabin, you immediately notice how roomy it is on the inside, despite being a couple of inches shorter than the previous model. All three trim models (GX, GS and GT) have features such as push button start, Bluetooth integration, 5.8” touchscreen audio display and adjustable heated front seats.

Mine had a few extras including Smart City Brake Support that allows the computer to brake for you if it senses a collision. Forward Obstruction Warning, Lane Departure Warning and Radar Cruise Control can automatically adjust the distance between you and other cars while cruise control is activated.

Overall, the new Mazda6 is a solid purchase choice if you’re in the market for a sedan that does more than the status quo and looks really good doing it. Starting at $24,495 MSRP for the GX model, it is priced competitively for its class as long as you can live with a cloth interior and manual climate controls.

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2014

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BMW i3 HATCHBACK

A Step Towards a Greener Future I f you don’t know what the BMW i3 looks like yet — the German manufacturer’s first fully electric vehicle (EV) offering— you will recognize it the moment you see it.

Not only does the hatchback look like it came from the future, it represents quite a change in design and manufacturing philosophy for the luxury brand.

“BMW i is this nice little incubator within the company that allows us to experiment a little bit, get some learnings and then bring it into the rest of the business,” says Marc Belcourt, national manager for the i program during a media presentation

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at BMW Canada headquarters.

Rather than simply creating an electric version of an existing model like the 3 Series, the entire concept was built from the ground up. Many of the construction materials used are exclusive to the i3, and as such the car is assembled separate from the rest of the line up.

“When it came to this car, we didn’t just tap into the existing production line in Leipzig (Germany). We built an entire new production facility, which is powered by wind turbines and you can see these massive turbines right outside the plant generating renewable energy to making

TM

By BENJAMIN yONG the i3 and the i8.”

Some of those unique materials include carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) panels stretched over an aluminum skeleton. The body is smoothened and sprayed in a two-tone theme, with certain sections like the hood, roof, liftgate and trim treated to a black finish regardless of the paint colour chosen. Adding to the interesting look are irregularly shaped rear windows that dip down into the hidden and handle-less suicide rear doors.

Inside, things appear equally forward thinking with a dash covered not in handstitched leather but European-sourced eucalyptus wood. Gone is the traditional instrument panel and entertainment display, replaced by a pair of freestanding screens that show and control all pertinent

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system functions. If the door panels and cloth seats remind you of PET water bottles, that’s because a quarter of the interior is made from recycled sources.

With all these earth-friendly statistics, you might think the i3 drives like a motorized bicycle. Fortunately, even though the aesthetics may not be typical BMW, it still feels like one. Don’t expect M3 performance — a 130-kilowatt electric motor produces a healthy 170 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, good for a 0-100 km/h time of 7.2 seconds. Handling is crisp thanks to a sub 2,000-kilogram curb weight attributed to the lightweight aluminum chassis and CFRP skin. One minor annoyance is the brake-energyrecoup mode that activates every time you take your foot off the accelerator. The car jerks gently as it automatically slows down; although the effects are speed sensitive so it’s less noticeable on the highway.

At the core of the i3 is an 18.8-kilowatthour lithium-ion battery providing a range of approximately 160 kilometres on a full charge, which the company says is enough for its target urbanite demographic traveling less than an average 60 km a day.

For those suffering from so-called “range anxiety,” BMW offers an optional $4,000 Range Extender (REX) model, available only from the factory with no ability to be retrofitted, increasing the total drivable distance to approximately 300 km.

One of the most attractive aspects of the i3 is the accessible price point. A base MSRP of $44,950 (lower with provincespecific government incentives) means this alternatively powered hatchback from a luxury manufacturer is a heck of a lot cheaper than a Tesla or even a Cadillac ELR, though it still can’t touch either in terms of range, with or without the extender. While this may not be the vehicle to usher in the mainstream adoption of green motoring, it’s definitely a step in the right direction.

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DARPAN TECH

GaDGeT TrenDS

By MorMei Zanke

Atlas

www.atlaswearables.com Atlas is a wearable watch that tracks your daily fitness routine.

What makes Atlas a standout among other fitness watch products is its extreme sensitivity. Atlas is able to detect your workouts with such precision that it can tell the difference between a regular push-up and a triangular push-up. Once the type of exercise has been identified, Atlas starts counting reps and then logs them on their mobile or web app for future reference. Not only can Atlas detect the type of exercise easily but it has also been programmed so that it can sense the weight input of each exercise without any manual effort, making weight resistance tracking a breeze. Atlas also monitors your heart rate and tells you what cardiovascular zone you are in all the time. This is helpful for workouts involving many repetitions because Atlas will suggest the best moment to start your next set based on your heart rate. Programmed Bluetooth smart and with a micro USB connector Atlas is the fitness watch to watch out for this Christmas 2014.

Drone Controller www.evolutioncontrollers.com The Drone Controller is a portable mobile controller that lets you play all of your favourite games without the hassle of onscreen touch controls. you can connect it via Bluetooth to your smartphone, tablet or PC, and even use it on the big screen as an everyday controller.

Pentagonal in shape, it comes in six different colours with a standard set up of controls and full button layout. There are bottom and top joysticks, directional arrows, and 4 buttons. The customary setup allows it to be compatible with thousands of games from the best developers. Its small size makes it easy to fit in a pocket or beach bag and hands down, it proves to be the number one portable mobile controller on the market. you can buy it online for only $65 (US) and start playing your games with enough ease and control to get you to your next high score.

Flykly Smart Wheel www.flykly.com The Flykly Smart Wheel turns any manual bicycle into an electric bike. With easy installation, all you need to do is swap out your back wheel with the Smart Wheel and its smooth sailing from here onwards. The wheel gives you a 25 km/h boost and can go up to 40 km on a single charge. It is also incredibly small, weighing only 3 kg and spanning just 180 mm in diameter. The design is compact and made out of weatherproof aluminum that also keeps the motor and batteries cool. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even more innovative about this design is its ability to connect to your phone via Bluetooth. Through the Smart App, you can control the speed of your bike with a tap of a button. Pre-order the Flykly Smart Wheel for $800 (US), with the first orders shipping out October 2014 and hitting your doorstep by November.

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KAREENA KAPOOR KHAN

S

he’s fantastic; she’s fashionable and a breath of fresh air. She’s a sure-shot pulse-stopper who is wise about matters of the heart. Light hearted and effortlessly chic, Kareena Kapoor Khan makes for the perfect muse for any filmmaker. She charms you with her warmth and vivacity like no other! The Bollywood beauty has come a long way since her debut over a decade and a half ago and recently starred in the highly anticipated Singham Returns.

WhaT MaDe you DeciDe To Be a parT of The filM SinGhaM reTurnS? I decided to be a part of the film because the director of this film is Rohit Shetty.

Every actress wants to work with him. In my career or film journey he has given me Golmaal Return and Golmaal 3 both huge hits and Singham Returns is going to make a hatrick success. In this film Rohit Shetty has given me a very interesting and different character to play. The fact is that Rohit wrote this character keeping me in mind to essay the character. My character

r a g u Sspice of

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With acting and beauty talent in her lineage, this Kapoor beauty is sure to win many a hearts with her latest flick Singham Returns.

In an exclusive chat with DARPAN, Kareena talks about her latest film, her acting career and much more. in the film is actually a very funny person and the scenes are hilarious. The comedy in this film is two notches higher than the other comic films I have done so far.

Rohit makes larger than life films and he is the king of action and comedy. We have a great track record.

coulD you Tell uS aBouT your role in SinGhaM reTurnS? I have played the role of a Maharashtrian girl in this film who is named Avni. She is a hair dresser and she is definitely adorable. She speaks a lot, is almost a blabbermouth [while] Bajirao Singham hardly speaks. The story revolves around how Avni traps and tries to get Bajirao to fall in love with her.

DiD you have To learn Mar aThi To GeT inTo The Skin of The char acTer avni in The filM? The character that I am playing is Maharashtrian so I am going to be seen talking in Marathi. I learnt how to speak Marathi properly on the set while shooting for the film. We had many unit members who are Maharashtrians besides

I learn languages very easily. I have mouthed a lot of Marathi abuses in the film. So in many ways than one, it was great fun shooting for the film.

anD To Think, you even haD To riDe an auTorickShaW in The filM? Oh yes! Now I have another career to bank on. And if I want I can become the first lady autorickshaw driver in the country!

The auDience Gener ally SeeS you in coMMercial MovieS. Do you have any fuTure planS To Try a DifferenT Genre?

Commercial films are given more importance in our country. Viewers want to get entertained while watching a film. I am proud of the fact that I have worked with or done commercial films with Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, Ajay Devgan and many names to reckon with. And my character in each of those films, have been note-worthy and vital. Every director and actor perceives me as a fine actress or artist and has immense respect for me. Even the viewers and my fans love to see me in commercial films. I don’t need to go out to prove myself. I do roles that I believe in and I joined the movie industry to be a star first and then an actress. I am doing films that I want to do, I did Heroine which tanked but that was also necessary. I am very happy being a part of Rohit’s films and then there is Kabir Khan’s next.

DoeS your char acTer have any acTion SceneS in The filM? Actually I have a comic role in the film but I have fair bit of action sequences to follow as well.

Besides there plenty of Marathi abuses so it’s all in pure fun!

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DARPAN EXCLUSIVE

WhaT DiD you Think of your char acTerS in MovieS like JaB We MeT, GolMa al anD SinGhaM reTurnS? All the three films are different for me. The characters, the roles and the films are varied so you cannot compare them really. Jab We Met had Geet who was unusual, though an Avni in Singham Returns is also raring to get married. But the difference is that Avni in Singham Returns is a feminist but not much of an extremist like Geet from Jab We Met. In this movie, I play my age while in Golmaal I played a complete tomboy.

Do you ever feel ThaT coMMercial MovieS or MovieS Which have plenTy of acTion ofTen Don’T have Much for The acTreSSeS To Do? But this is not the case for Singham Returns. This is a complete entertainer. And my character is as important as the film’s hero, Ajay Devgan’s character in the film. And why would you talk of Bollywood films only? Even in Hollywood films like Bourne Identity or Bourne Supremacy or even James Bond, there commercial films don’t offer much for the actresses. And even then actresses like Anjelina Jolie work for such movies. Every top actress is seen in such films. [An] action film does not mean that the actress has nothing to do or sit and twiddle her thumbs in the film. For an actress to showcase her acting skills, she needn’t take up only heroine oriented films. To be a part of entertainers or commercial films, an actress needs to have immense patience, talent, [and] tolerance.

We hearD ThaT SinGhaM reTurnS ToucheS upon SoMe real iSSueS? The heroines have always been prominent in these films. So much so that in the movie Bodyguard, there is a fine love story between

Well, my priorities have definitely changed and I don’t want to end up giving 200 days to a film. I am happy balancing out work & personal life.

havinG Done filMS like JaB We MeT anD noW SinGhaM reTurnS, WoulD you Say They are eaSier or More relaxinG To Work in?

Well, its not like that.

It’s a different charm all together to be working in a commercial entertainer.

And I completely love being a part of such films. In my career so far, people have loved watching me in commercial entertainers, whether its Golmaal 3 or Bodygaurd. Besides I had a lot of scope to act or my characters had a lot to depict in the said films.

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Salman and my character. Needless to say, masala or commercial films are going to be a part of me.

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In this film DCP Bajirao Singham is a hero for the common man. He fights for issues that the common man can relate to. Here he fights against black money corruption. So he would go and fight to remove the perils of black money in the country and fight against the corrupt people and politicians in the film. Apart from black money, this film also deals with the bad doings of some of the politicians and the help that the police force has provided the country. The movie shows what’s actually happening around us.

you SeeM To Be DoinG feWer filMS anD have refuSeD quiTe a BiT of Work laTely, Why iS ThaT? Well, my priorities have definitely changed and I don’t want to end up giving 200 days to a film. I am happy balancing out work and personal life.

you Don’T SeeM To Be Seen Much in puBlic eiTher, excepT While proMoTinG your filMS. are you on any Social neTWorkinG SiTeS, like faceBook or TWiTTer? As an actor I like to talk about my work and nothing else. I prefer to talk about my films, work and my priorities. Both Saif and I are not on any social networking sites and like it that way. We have a lot of friends who post pictures on social networking sites but we are far from it. We are very private people.

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Mary KoM

Release Date: September 5

[This] [This] is is the the most most hardest hardest film film of of my my career. career.

To To bring bring her her (Mary (Mary Kom's) Kom's) personality personality on on screen screen was was the the hardest hardest part. part. To To bring bring the the part part of of aa fighter, fighter, aa homemaker, homemaker, and and aa mother mother was was aa challenge," challenge," -- Priyanka Priyanka

Director: Omung Kumar Starring: Priyanka Chopra, Danny Denzongpa, Sunil Thapa

Known for playing author-backed roles in the past, Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra is ready to once again light up the screen with her acting prowess - and this time she will be depicting the life of Indian boxer, Mary Kom. Speaking about Priyanka and the film, which is titled Mary Kom, producer Sanjay Leela Bhansali said, "Now that we've completed the film, it is impossible to imagine anyone but Priyanka playing Mary Kom. She has lived the role. She breathes life into every pore of the character. There are other very fine actors in the film, chosen because they suit the role." Apparently, playing the role of Mary Kom was not easy for Priyanka, who has won a slew of awards throughout her career. "[This] is the most hardest film of my career. To bring her (Mary Kom's) personality on screen was the hardest part. To bring the part of a fighter, a homemaker, and a mother was a challenge," Priyanka said.

BOLLYWOODWATCH

By Saira Hayre

Finding Fanny

Release date: September 12 Director: Homi Adajania Starring: Arjun Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, Dimple Kapadia, Naseeruddhin Shah

Haider

Release date: October 2 Director: Vishal Bhardwaj Starring: Shahid Kapoor, Shraddha Kapoor, Tabu

Vishal Bhardwaj is one director whose name is synonymous with quality cinema, so it's not surprising that Hindi film fans are eagerly awaiting the release of his Haider, which is an adaption of Shakespeare's Hamlet.

"I am attracted to human conflict. Negative and positive are within us. These conflicts make stories. Hamlet was written four hundred years ago and its beauty is that you can adapt the story in any situation or culture because it is about basic human conflict, Vishal has said. Starring Shahid Kapoor in the central role, Haider will also feature Tabu, who will play the role of Shahid's stepmother in the film. Besides these two, Shraddha Kapoor, known for her roles in films like Aashiqui 2 and Ek Villian, will also be playing an important part in the movie. "Vishal has adapted the play brilliantly with an Indian setting. I am playing a press reporter Arshia, which is an amalgamation of Shakespeare's Ophelia and Horatio (Hamletâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s friend).

I read Hamlet in my school but I don't remember it well.

[Vishalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s] script was enough to understand all these SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2014 characters," Shraddha has said in an interview.

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After starring in hit films like 2 States and Gunday, Arjun Kapoor is now ready with his upcoming release titled Finding Fanny, and starring alongside him for the first time is Bollywood superstar Deepika Padukone.

Interestingly enough, Ranveer Singh, who was last seen alongside Arjun in the film Gunday, will also make an appearance in a cameo role. According to various sources, Ranveer who will be playing Deepika's husband in the film, didn't charge any fee for his appearance in the film. "Ya! Ranveer is a friendly man, so he did it for a laugh! We were sitting around and I was telling him the story of Finding Fanny and he said I'll play Gabo (the character) - he was laughing but was dead serious. I told him that I'd need him in Goa for half a day of shoot but we all had so much fun that he ended up staying for over a week after he was done. Ranveer's energy is infectious and when the material is right, I know we'll be able to create some magic in a film someday," director Homi Adajania has been quoted as saying.

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Director: Siddharth Raj Anand Starring: Hrithik Roshan, Katrina Kaif

He's not seen in as many movies as his contemporaries and that's probably why Hrithik Roshan's upcoming movie Bang Bang is one of the most anticipated this year. What makes it even more anticipated is the fact that the film is full of action and stunts. "As far as stunts are concerned, Hrithik has already pushed the envelope with Krrish 3, and there was lot of pressure to go beyond that. So in this movie, we have a Formula One car zipping through the streets, Hrithik jetting 30 feet above the water, thrills with jet skis and motor boats, and much more.

His action scenes will be talked about," explained director Siddharth Anand in an interview. Bang Bang, which is a remake of Hollywood film Knight and Day, also stars the glamorous Katrina Kaif, who was last seen in the blockbuster Dhoom 3 opposite Aamir Khan.

KHooBSuraT

Release date: September 19 Director: Shashank Ghosh Starring: Sonam Kapoor, Ratna Pathak Shah

Fawad

Khan,

Kirron

Kher,

Actress Sonam Kapoor, who was last seen in Bewakoofiyan, is set to star in the remake of the film Khubsoorat, which will also feature Pakistani actor, Fawad Khan. While the film is a remake of the Hrishikesh Mukherjee classic, Sonam, who is the daughter of actor Anil Kapoor, has clarified that her film is not a copy of the original. "We have the rights to the film and we took the character, spirit of the character and have put her in another setting. It is nothing like the old film at all. It's just the essence and charm of the girl that's the same. She comes and changes people's lives. And that was the essence of Khubsoorat," Sonam has said. Interestingly enough, the character played by Rekha in the original film will also be seen in the remake, and her part will be played by actress Kirron Kher. "When Shashank Ghosh [the film's director] rewrote Khubsoorat for Sonam Kapoor, it was felt that Rekha's character from the original film was way too outdated to be valid in today's context. At the same time Anil Kapoor, a huge fan of Hrishida's cinema, wanted to retain the original character," a source has been quoted as saying.

Maral Fadaeian

Kelly Macauley

Meena Sadioura

Brent Ellingson

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Five major films are set to open in the next couple of months and it’s not even Halloween yet.

By Jorge Ignacio Castillio

FEAR

Annabelle (October 3rd)

For those who dig The Conjuring, here comes a sequel of sorts inspired by the creepy doll that frames the original. A couple of newlyweds waiting for their first child adopts the toy, unaware the spirit of a deeply disturbed woman inhabits it. Shades of Child’s Play are all over this.

of

T

here is practically no weekend in the next two months without a movie release aiming to provoke goosebumps in the audience. Whether it is a thriller or a full blown gorefest, movie-hounds are bound to run into at least one of the following titles. But, are they worth your money?

Let’s find out!

ABC of Death 2 ( October 31st)

Tusk

Two years ago, an omnibus flick with young horror-meisters and foreign specialists became an unexpected success in the direct-to-video market. The gimmick: Every director gets a letter and is expected to deliver a horror short inspired by their assigned character. Now the sequel comes to theatres, this time with more recognizable names like Vincenzo Natali (Splice), the animator Bill Plympton and Vancouver’s Soska sisters (American Mary). Last time, the outcome was hit-and-miss. Here’s hoping for a higher success ratio this time around.

(September 19th) Following a terrible experience directing Bruce Willis in Cop Out, Kevin Smith swore off directing in 2010. He hasn’t followed through. Since then he has turned to horror: His previous effort – Red State- was original but unfocused. Now he comes back with a more traditional flick, to some degree: A man (Justin Long) is offered the opportunity of living rent-free, as long as he is willing to dress like a walrus while doing housework. What ensues is an ordeal of physical and psychological torture aimed to turn the hapless drifter into the real / OCTOBER 2014 thing.SEPTEMBER I am the walrus, indeed.

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No Good Deed (September 12th)

Outside the character that launched his career (Omar in The Wire), Idris Elba is associated with playing ‘the good guy’ (Luther, Pacific Rim, Thor). In No Good Deed, his imposing physique is put at the service of evil. Elba portrays a fugitive who finds shelter at a home in suburbia. With the police swarming the area, the criminal must contend with a housewife (Taraji P. Nelson) who is more resourceful than she lets on. While the home invasion plot has been done to death, Elba and Nelson’s acting chops are bound to keep things entertaining.

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( October 24th) A classic setup gets a teenage spin: A group of friends try to use an Ouija board to contact a pal who died in strange circumstances. A sinister presence takes advantage of the situation to transit to the world of the living. The fact the film is just PG-13 doesn’t bode well for its box office future.

Recent titles to get the audience-friendly rating are the godawful Prom Night, When a Stranger Calls and The Last Exorcism. Proceed with caution.

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Not opening: Paranormal Activity 5 & Green Inferno Both these films were expected to take over the multiplexes by storm, but for different reasons, failed to make it to the date. A staple of the Halloween season, the fifth entry in the Paranormal Activity saga was postponed due to franchise fatigue. In 2012, PA4 became the lowest grossing film of the bunch, due to audiences catching up with all the (rather limited) tricks the filmmakers had at hand. Renovation became a must and now PA5 won’t see the light of day until 2016. As for Eli Roth’s Green Inferno, the issue is a lot more pedestrian: The distributor is enduring money woes and it’s reevaluating the marketing strategy of Roth’s cannibal fest.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jorge IgnacIo castIllo Jorge is a journalist and film critic with over 15 years of experience in publications across North America. Castillo is also a budding filmmaker with two shorts under his belt and a feature documentary in production. Member of the Vancouver Film Critics Circle since 2013.

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INDIANS GLOBAL INDIANS GLOBAL INDIANS GLOBAL INDIANS GLOBAL INDIANS GLOBAL INDIANS GLOBAL INDIANS GLOBAL INDIANS

GLOBAL

INDIANS

I N T RO D U C I N G

SAUMITRA SAXENA

By Garima Goswami Amid his numerous pieces

meaning friend, was

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aumitra Saxena is a wellaccomplished poet who has contributed immensely to the field of Hindi literature, with works that have been acclaimed not only in India, but overseas as well. For the past 17-18 years, Saxena has been writing poems and is recognized as a noted personality in the world of contemporary Hindi poetry. Over 150 poems and numerous short stories are credited to his name and several of them have been published in Indian newspapers and journals.

Hailing from India, Saxena was born and raised in Meerut, a historical city in the state of Uttar Pradesh. "Living and growing in this part of India was a fascinating experience and I always effortlessly locate pedigrees of my poetic psyche here," says Saxena describing his childhood years.

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But what intrigued this poet's interest in writing these great pieces? "I have the great fortune of personally knowing, Gopal Das Neeraj, one of the most celebrated romantic poets of India. Neeraj, a Hindi poet and lyricist of the several immortal songs of Bollywood actors Raj Kapoor and Dev Anand, is a grandpa to me in a distant relation." He continues describing days where his father used to accompany him to Kavi Sammelans (poetry recitation events) where Neeraj would also participate. "His voice and words became a part of my earliest childhood imprints."

Amid his numerous pieces of work, Saxena's first poetry collection, Mitra, meaning friend, was critically acclaimed and he received the prestigious Bhartiya Jnanpith Navlekhan Award in 2008.

The award is conferred to emerging writers in Hindi language under the age of 35 years, by the Bhartiya Jnanpith, India's foremost literary foundation and publishing house.

After completing his graduation from India, Saxena flew to Chicago to pursue a PhD in chemical engineering. Saxena continued writing poems and sent them to India where his poetry pieces were regularly published in print. His highly-praised work Mitra, achieved tremendous appreciation in the US and is also included amongst other noted literature pieces in US universities and Washington DC based Library of Congress.

Q&A wITh MR. SAXENA Q: What would you describe as your biggest achievement so far?

A: It would be simply wrong to even think that I have achieved much of anything yet. Some appreciation is surely there. But more quality work needs to come out from my desk to secure any durable presence. I just want to keep writing for 30-40 years if my destiny permits that.

Sometimes, it makes me happy to think that my childhood memories and family stories are now part of the Library of Congress. They will be preserved for a very long time.

Can I really call it an achievement? I don’t know. I just leave it there with some content.

Q: What are your other interests apart from poetry?

A: I am learning spirituality. Trying to be spiritual without being religious.

Deepak Chopra’s writings are a main source of my knowledge on this subject. It all started one day in a library in Dayton, when I accidently laid my eyes on one of his book, ‘How to know God.’ I was a non-believer.

Chopra quoted Jiddu Krishnamurti at one place, “I used to be an atheist until I realized I was God.” The words stuck with me and I started looking into some aspects of spirituality, science and religion. My upcoming poetry collection, titled Neele Pakshi, Safed Akash, delves deep into the interconnect of some of these issues.

Q: What are your plans for the future?

A: I am working on a novel which is based on the life and times of revolutionary Jatin Das and his younger brother Kiron Das. Titled Amar Chitra, it’s a part real part fantasy love story themed around the Das family. A good amount of research has already gone in on this subject. I will be putting the pedal to the metal soon. On a parallel track, I am working on a long poem titled, Din-E-Ilahi (‘Religion of God’).

Q: If you had to give advice to what would you say?

A: Originality at every level is very important. Especially that of thought, language and style. Young folks should focus on developing their own marquee. I never recommend too much reading. One can carry impressions of studied material into one’s own writing, compromising the freshness. This is certainly not to say that we should not read others, but more a note of caution against a grave danger.

Travelling extensively, relating with diverse set of people, exploring life in innovative ways can help generate good ideas. Connecting with people’s issues is indispensable.

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Kelly Benson

is a lifelong student of metaphysics, astrologer. She has a rich background in reading astrological charts and doing Tarot readings. She is the daughter of well-known astrologer Georgia Nicols. To learn more about Kelly or to book an in-depth astrological reading,

Visit: www.kellybenson.ca.

SEPTEMBER -OCTOBER 2014

HOROSCOPE

All Signs

We all feel the urge get more organized and on top of our respective games at this time of year. The back-to-school vibe is in the air and we’re eager to be more productive! The Sun moves from capable and practical Virgo to smooth and social Libra. We¹re motivated to take care of things and we’re not intimidated by a little hard work (right folks?)! We’re drawn to festivals, cultural events, and playful social outings. Mercury does it’s final retrograde for 2014 throughout the month of October (did I just hear you groan?). Use this energy to strengthen existing connections and catch up with old friends. Past lovers and old flames might pop-up where you least expect them. It won’t be boring!

ARIES (MARch 21 – ApRIl 19) You're on a roll this fall, Aries! The trine between Jupiter and Uranus fires-up a ton of opportunities for you. You can tune-in to your inner heart's desire and give shape to your dreams now. Of course we know this is not without effort, but you're feeling more courageous than you have for a while. Many of you can really crank it up in relation to group efforts or team experiences. Your energy is tireless and you can win the acceptance and approval of many. Don't let this time slip by! Ask yourself what areas you want to make some major changes in, and get down to it.

Rewarding days: Sep 10, 11 | October 7, 8 Challenging days: Sep 24, 25 | October 21, 22, 23

TAuRuS (ApRIl 20-MAy 20) Listen to your intuition now Taurus, especially in relation to your career. Those of you involved in the arts or something creative can easily connect with your muse now! The Sun and Venus are energizing your self-confidence, giving you the permission to express your true nature. Love affairs and romantic opportunities can also bloom now too! When Mercury moves retrograde in October you might feel the impulse to go inward and get some quiet time, that's ok.

Your subconscious has something to say. This is an excellent time to get some peace or resolution to old issues that have been buried. Matters connected with family members can be healed now.

Rewarding days: Sep 12, 13 | October 9, 10 Challenging days: Sep 1, 26, 27, 28 | October 24, 25

GEMInI (MAy 21-JunE 20) Connecting with groups will be important to you this fall, dear Gemini. This may be in the form of professional development, networking, or simply in the pursuit of a recreational interest. Whatever the case, you're definitely going to expand your sphere of influence now! You're feeling more assertive (and more talkative) so you're a great addition to a team. Education or training is looking more appealing than usual to some of you. Don't be afraid to explore furthering your skill-sets. You're a quick study if there ever was one! You might be inspired to get behind a humanitarian cause this fall. If there's one that's particularly dear to your heart, go for it!

Rewarding days: Sep 14, 15 | October 11, 12, 13 Challenging days: Sep 2, 3, 29, 30 | October 26, 27

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CanCer (June 21-July 22) Opportunities on the career front are looking pretty sweet right now, Cancer! If you need to find some financing or perhaps ask for a loan, this is a great time to submit a proposal. You're eager to give shape to your aspirations in practical ways and that might also mean taking things in a whole new direction. This is a hot time to take your craft or service to the next level. You're ready to make improvements to your practices - you want everything to run more efficiently. Meanwhile back at the ranch, you've got a ton of ideas flowing through you! Write them down or tell your partner - some of these ideas are going to make you some money!

Rewarding days: Sep 16, 17, 18 | October 14, 15 Challenging days: Sep 4, 5 | October 1, 2, 28, 29

leo (July 23-aug. 22) This is a seriously hot time for you, Leo! Not only is Jupiter in your sign, but both Mars and Uranus are favourably aspecting your sign, energizing you and creating opportunities. You can easily make some great headway in areas related to leadership, promotions, sales, or any causes that are dear to your heart. If you have any moneymaking ideas or suggestions for mutually beneficial arrangements - put these forth now. Others are willing to listen to you. You're also keen to learn about new ways of life, philosophies, religions, or even spiritual paths.

Put some budget aside and treat yourself to a weekend workshop, some new books, or some fresh music that inspires you.

Rewarding days:Sep 19, 20 |October 16, 17, 18 Challenging days: Sep 6, 7 | October 3, 4, 30, 31

Virgo (aug. 23-Sept. 22) You might experience surprises during your birthday season this year, dear Virgo! Be prepared that things may not unfold exactly as you expect. Nevertheless, interesting opportunities, gifts, and fortunate events are in store for you. So keep your pockets (and don't look that gift horse in the mouth). If you need to raise some money, ask for a loan, or settle issues related to wills, taxes, estates, and insurance matters - late September and early October are your best times for this. Old business might come back around, but this time you'll get things settled with a fresh spin. Any matters that require research will go smoothly, you can easily dig deep to find the answers you need.

Rewarding days: Sep 21, 22, 23 | October 19, 20 Challenging days: Sep 8, 9 | October 5, 6

libra (Sept. 23-oCt. 22) Relationships are big focus for you now, Libra. This is an excellent time for any kind of bonding - be it romantic, friendship, or even bonding with coworkers. New relationships that begin this fall will be exciting and possibly involve travel or education. Single Librans might meet someone unusual or from a very different background.

Those already in partnership can benefit from recreational outings or learning something new together such as a wine tour, photography classes or maybe couples massage workshop. Spontaneous group outings will inspire and energize, so accept all invitations that come your way.

Group experiences and team efforts will yield fantastic results. Head out and go to new places - it's time to shake things up a little!

Rewarding days: Sep 24, 25 | October 21, 22, 23 Challenging days: Sep 10, 11| October 7, 8

SCorpio (oCt. 23-noV. 21) Career takes an upswing this season, Scorpio! You're ready to try some new approaches and you're thinking out-of-thebox. Bosses, teachers, and your adoring public are keen to learn more about you. Capitalize on this time and promote TM

yourself or your cause now. Work place romances are likely, oh la la! You might find yourself attracted to someone older or more experienced than yourself this fall. On the home front, you've been making some changes and late September you can get down to the nitty-gritty details of a job or task that you've been putting off. The Solar Eclipse occurring in your sign on October 23rd is a magical and fertile time to set your personal intentions for the year ahead. Time to get your manifesting hat on!

Rewarding days: Sep 1, 26, 27, 28 | October 24, 25 Challenging days: Sep 12, 13 | October 9, 10

SagittariuS (Nov 22-Dec 21) Some much-needed change is in the works for you, Sagittarius.

Early born Sagittarians may have recently experienced it, while others are just walking into it now. Think of it as a time of cleansing. The decks are getting stripped as you prepare for a brand new cycle. Adjustments at home or with partners may have been trying. Fortunately with Jupiter in fellow fire sign Leo, you are feeling more optimistic. You're more creative in your approach to solving problems you might have. Mars sits in your sign from September 13th to October 26th, giving you greater strength and focus. If anyone has been crossing the line with you, you're about to stand to your ground. Think about what you want to fight for!

Rewarding days: Sep 2, 3, 29, 30 | October 26, 27 Challenging days: Sep 14, 15 | October 11, 12 13

capricorN (Dec. 22-JaN. 19) It's time to plough ahead and make some hay while the sun shines, dear Capricorn. Fortunately you've got a lot done already and you'll be able to stop and smell the roses soon!

Invitations to expand your social horizons will land on your doorstep. Everyone wants a piece of you! There's some extra bounce in your step, making you more approachable and attractive now. Relationships get very cozy this autumn as new levels of intimacy are possible. (You're about to add some extra spice in the bedroom too!) The Solar Eclipse on October 23rd is an excellent time to craft your goals or at the very least a bucket list - don't limit your dreams!

Rewarding days: Sep 4, 5 | October 1, 2, 28, 29 Challenging days: Sep 16, 17, 18 | October 14, 15

aquariuS (JaN. 20-Feb. 18) It's time to paint the town red, Aquarius! Connecting with likeminded souls and sharing ideas, opinions, and insights will energize and stimulate you. Your social circles expand as your interests are pulled to new and exciting areas. This is an excellent time to work with groups and boost team moral.

Others are keen to have your on their side. Your workload increased a lot in the last few years and this autumn you get to have a little fun! You're eager to tackle new projects with a sense of play and you bring your signature original approach to whatever you do. This is a great time to extend the olive branch if need be; others are receptive and ready to listen you.

Rewarding days: Sep 6, 7 | October 3, 4, 30, 31 Challenging days: Sep 19, 20 | October 16, 17, 18

piSceS (Feb. 19-March 20) It's time to really believe in yourself and your efforts now, Pisces. The door is opening to professional opportunities and it's up to you to walk in and make yourself at home. (Don't be bashful now!) Influential people are going to shine their light in your direction and they want to learn what you're all about. This is an excellent time to share your ideas, to take on a teaching role, or write that article you've been meaning to get to. As well, sweet windfalls of cash or goodies might find their way into your lap now. Your earnings are likely to be boosted somehow. If buying or investing, you'll be drawn to art pieces or something that inspires beauty.

Rewarding days: Sep 8, 9 | October 5, 6 Challenging days: Sep 21, 22, 23 | October 19, 20

Celebrating 30 Years!

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By Saira Hayre

CANADIAN IMMIGRANTS

SHARE THEIR STORIES...

Meet the Kris

hnamurth

Family

Jagathguru is a Bridge Engineer working with Parsons Corporation Divya is a Business Analyst working with Prizm Media

Biggest Obstacle: Jagath: When I came to Canada I was in a work permit and was not able to get a loan to buy a car. Earlier one had to be a permanent resident or have a permanent residence/citizenship to sign as a guarantor to apply for a loan.

Resolutions: Jagath: Spend more time with my wife, family and friends, to make a work life balance and not get too busy with work since we all came from India to avoid the long hours.

Divya: Almost same as Jagath, spend more time together and work to keep myself occupied which will also be an additional financial support for our family.

Advice to future immigrants: Jagath: Don’t set high expectations because if something did not happen the way you wanted, it will be in the back of your mind regretting making the decision to immigrate from your hometown where you left behind your extended family and friends. But coming here, you will have more exposure and will come out of your comfort zone.

Memories of homeland: Jagath: Coimbatore is called the Manchester of South India, basically a cotton city and also has a lot educational institutions. We used to have a lot of Inter School Festivals which I remember was fun, visiting all the different institutes, making new friends. Every year my family would go on a road trip to all the temples, which was an exciting journey visiting the places where engineering marvel was made centuries ago.

Divya: Mysore’s Dasara celebrations are the best, where the entire city is lighted up and the festival goes on for a week, the evening road trips to Chammundi Hills, and I can never forget the Gol Gappas and Chaats at Khao Gali.

Getting Here: After completing his Masters in Structural Engineering from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in South Dakota, USA, Jagathguru Krishnamurthi began working for a heavy civil construction company in Minneapolis.

After completing the project in Minneapolis, his company gave him the opportunity to move to Canada to work on the Port Mann Bridge project.

“Before moving from the States and till now there is a lot of infrastructure development happening in Canada and it was a good opportunity to build my career where there are interesting jobs. So when my employer gave me the opportunity, I decided to move to Canada,” says Jagathguru, who has now been living in Canada for almost five and a half years.

Nine months after he moved, Jagathguru, who is originally from Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India, was joined by his wife Divya.

Talking about one of the difficulties she initially faced after immigrating, Divya, who is from Mysore, Karnataka, India, says, “Even though I have a MBA and three years work experience in the corporate world in India, finding a job here in Canada was very difficult as they kept asking for Canadian work experience. I am still confused as to how someone can get Canadian work

PHOTO: Divya & JaGaTHGURU KRisHnamURTHi

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experience without getting a job.”

She adds that one of her first experiences in Canada left her shocked.

“Myself and Jagath went to test drive a car and when I was driving we got rear ended. The person who hit us called the cops and I was completely under shock and did not know what to do even after Jagath reassured me that it was not our fault and we should not be worried.

After the policeman came, he saw my Indian Driver’s license, said I was able to drive for three months after I landed in Canada. He took statements and said it was the other guys’ fault and left. I was relieved but this was something different from India, wherein if a person hit our car they would just keep going and not stop.”

On a parting note, when asked what he likes about Canada, Jagath says that he appreciates the multiculturalism and also thinks that it’s easy for people from different countries to adapt to the Canadian lifestyle.

Divya adds, “There are things here in Canada that are not the same as in India, but when you’re in Rome be a Roman. So make use of what is here and enjoy the moment with your family and new friends!

i

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