AAJ Diwali Issue 2018

Nov/Dec Issue 2018 Nov/Dec Issue Volume 142018 Issue 7 Volume 14 Issue$4.95 7 $4.95

HappyDiwali Diwali Happy Reflecting Today Shaping Tomorrow

HEALTHY FATS HEALTHY DIWALI DIWALI ACROSS CANADA CANADA ACROSS DIWALI AROUND AROUND DIWALI THEWORLD WORLD IN IN 55 DAYS THE DAYS www.aajmag.ca www.aajmag.ca

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FROM THE PUBLISHER Diwali is a very special time for myself and the rest of the South Asian community. The “festival of lights� is one of the biggest celebrations in the world, both in India and across the globe. Diwali is the start of a new year and a time for celebration. Thank you all for your endless support and best wishes for a happy, healthy, and prosperous Diwali!

Suki Pangalia CEO

REGIONAL TEAM Publisher/CEO Suki Pangalia Jim Kalsi

P: 604.590.0007 E: info@aajmag.ca AAJ Media Group Surrey, BC

ISSN 2371-2481

AAJ Magazine is published by AAJ Media Group, doing business as AAJ Magazine Inc. AAJ is a magazine that is published every two months. Any reproduction of the magazine, editorial content, images or advertisements cannot be reproduced or reprinted in any form, without written permission of the Publishers. The views expressed by the writers in this publication are not the views of the Publishers or AAJ Media Group. The Publishers assume no responsibility for errors or omissions. Copyright 2018 AAJ Magazine Incorporated. All rights reserved.

Executive Assistant Reshma Mohammed Office Manager Varnnitha Vinay Editor Navkiran Brar Editorial Rosy Mann Rupa Gopinath Nalini Bhui Sanya Dhingra Sharon Heer Design & Layout Yosof Hakimi Advertising & Sales Suki Pangalia Navkiran Brar

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19 Diwali Around the World in 5 Days

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What Does Diwali Mean To Me - A Youth’s Perspective

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How Busy Are You?

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Healthy Fats: Give yourself the gift of health this Diwali

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Dr.Ambedkar Chetna Award

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Shubh Diwali From GSBC

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Diwali in Mumbai

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Diwali Across Canada

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Karwa Chauth & Diwali Mela 2018

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SPARK with IN Youth Conference

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Yogi Amandeep

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3rd GRAND DIWALI GALA : 13th OCT 2018

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HOW BUSY ARE YOU?

11 DIWALI AROUND THE WORLD

23 HEALTHY FATS

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WHAT DOES DIWALI MEAN TO ME

T O D AY

Diwali

Around the world in 5 Days 11

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he Hindu New Year Diwali is celebrated all over the world in autumn, with the common theme of victory of good over evil and from darkness to light. Celebrations depend upon the individual’s home state in India and the country they migrated to. Exchange of gifts, fresh flowers,jewellery, new clothes , utensils, meeting with friends and family, prayer and feasting are part of this colourful festival.

Yet, each region of India celebrates Diwali in its own unique way. The lighting of small earthenware oil lamps in homes and gardens is common throughout the country.

The bright lamps are also symbolic of giving thanks for the good things in one’s life.

Pre-Diwali preparations start eleven days before on Dhan Teras. Homes are cleaned & decorated and choice sweets and savories are prepared. As, Wagh Baras day signifies the importance of women in society, they are gifted new clothes, utensils and jewellery.

jarat, on this day known as Badhausar, Goddess of wealth Lakshmi, is believed to visit the homes that are well lit. Families decorate their houses with lights, flowers and coloured paper Kandils (lanterns).

Diwali day represents the start of a new business year for all Indian businesses.

The fourth day of Diwali occurs on the first day of the lunar New Year.

Processions, cultural performances and other events fill this family fun day promoting togetherness.

In U.P. India, on the fifth day of celebration, the day Lord Ram, Sita and Lakshman returned to Ayodhya, Diwali is celebrated by bursting firecrackers and illuminating homes

The first day of Diwali dedicated to good health, is celebrated to revere Dhanavantri, the physician of the gods & goddesses.

As per the story, the sixteen-year old son of King Hima was doomed to die but the dedication of his young wife made Yama, the God of Death, return him back to his family. Fasting is observed. An earthen lamp is lit at the main entrance and Lord Yamaraj is offered water, vermilion, rice, jaggery and flowers – Yamadeepdaan Puja.

In North India, on the second day of Diwali also known as Roop Chaturdashi, prayers focus on peace through inner and outer beauty. On this day, Hindus take a special bath with certain rituals followed and perform Sadhana (Meditation).

The third day of Diwali is the most significant day with prayers for rosperity.

Firecrackers are burst and sweets are distributed following Laxmi puja.In Gu-

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homes with clay diyas. Deepavali means “Row of Lamps” or “Paths of Light” decorating the houses to welcome them and light their path. Since Diwali is celebrated on the 20th day after Dussehra or Navaratri on a new moon day, light from the diyas and firecrackers illuminate the dark sky in a brilliant flash.

A Diwali tour would be incomplete without a trip to Vancouver & Toronto, Canada; New York and London.

Youngsters & adults, attend Dandiya celebrations just like their cousins in Ahmedabad. Imagine thousands of men, women and children, dressed in colourful traditional Chaniya cholis, sarees and silk kurta- churidars dancing together in big indoor gymnasiums.

Soulful and melodious folk songs are played by troupes from Gujarat, Mumbai and Rajasthan from India & from Canada. The lead MC calls out the steps to each segment. So, each line of dancers is in total sync with the whole room of dancers. The fast numbers do full justice to the flute, dhol, tabla and the unique Nagadas (war drums).

The tapping of the dandiya sticks add yet another dimension to this magical evening. The atmosphere is charged with amazing youthful energy. The agility of people of all ages is commendable.

First, good nutritious traditional food is prepared and served. Then, thousands dance together for four hours and pray

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and share ‘Prasad’ at the end of the session.

Youngsters and newly-wed couples seek blessings from their elders. Love and good energy fill the venue be it at the temples, halls or homes. Darkness is thus truly dispelled as light shines brightly both inside people’s hearts and outside in the halls.

Sikhs all over the world celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas during the Diwali time frame. As the story goes, the Mughals had imprisoned 52 innocent Hindu Kings as well as the Sikh Guru as political prisoners.

However, Guru Hargobind Sahibji found a way to release all of the Kings without a battle, during his own release. Hence, ‘Prisoner Release Day or Bandi Chorh Divas’ is celebrated by the Sikh Sangat all over the world as he returned to Amritsar on that day. It is coincidental that Diwali is celebrated on the same day when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya from exile. Hence, Hindus & Sikhs celebrate this day with many similarities.

Diwali during the Mughal rule in India under King Akbar, was different than the rest of the Mughal period. Akbar adopted two distinct but effective approaches in administering a large territory and incorporating various ethnic groups into his service. A little known fact is of Akbar

an astute Mughal ruler, who genuinely appreciated the challenges of administering a vast empire. He introduced a policy of reconciliation and assimilation of Hindus who represented the majority of the population. He recruited and rewarded Hindu chiefs with the highest ranks in government; encouraged intermarriages between Mughal and Rajput aristocracy; allowed new temples to be built; personally participated in celebrating Hindu festivals such as Diwali; and abolished the jizya (poll tax) imposed on non-Muslims.

characters from the Ramayana. The war against Raavan the demon lasted for ten days. Sita was reunited with her husband Ram and they went back to Ayodhya in triumph and glory. Thus, it is on the Diwali day that Lord Ram returned to his capital Ayodhya after being in exile for fourteen years. Huge effigies of the demon Raavana with his ten heads are burned, signifying victory of Lord Rama - good over evil.

Of course the character Hanuman is always a favourite with the kids. The performances are a beautiful display of talent.

Surprising as it may seem to a few, the impact of such open-minded thinking is prevalent even in current times. Although the present days are wrought with religious and political strife, many Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Muslims and Christians join together as one to partake in and enjoy the festivities and celebrations of Diwali in major cities in India such as Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Calcutta, Hyderabad & Bengaluru. It would be nice to see more of this in multicultural Canada in the years to come. To this end, Toronto has taken a good lead in recent years.

Deepavali or the festival of lights, is thus celebrated in autumn every year with great enthusiasm by Indians all over the world. In the 21st century, it is heartening to see more and more mainstream participation and true enjoyment of the festivities in Canada. Spiritually, Diwali signifies the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil & hope over despair. It is a festival of joy, togetherness, brightness and happiness.

Ramayana is enacted in dramas called Ramlila & is staged in huge outdoor pandals in cities, towns and villages, on the occasion of Dussehra and Diwali. In the evenings, a procession is taken out in all major cities where people dress up as

The uniqueness of this festival is its harmony of the five philosophies with each day dedicated to a special thought or ideal. If one celebrates each of the five days of festivities with true understanding and the right spirit, lives will be truly enriched.

Diwali is a festival to usher in good health, peace, prosperity, joy and togetherness.

Nalini Bhui Nalini Bhui is an award winning scientist, media host, community leader, an inspirational speaker, & produces “The Nalini Bhui Show� on TV.

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WHAT DOES

DIWALI

MEAN TO ME?

A YOUTH’S PERSPECTIVE

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Diwali is the joyous festival of lights. I always look forward to this time of the year as it provides an opportunity to get together with family and friends, lots of shopping, the exchange of gifts, sweets and delicious food, puja (prayers), cleaning and decorating our homes and places of worship, wearing new outfits, donating to charity, a sense of belonging in the community and lots of festivity.

If we look at the history of this festival it goes back to our country of origin - India. Diwali, the festival of lights, is the most celebrated festival in India. It signifies the victory of Good over Evil. In recent years, Diwali has become an interfaith festival almost around the globe.

Diwali is also the festival of art. Rangoli designs are used to decorate the house either on the floor or walls. Rangoli is made using materials like colored sand, colored rice, dry flour, or flower petals to make patterns to welcome Maa Lakshmi (the goddess of wealth) and Lord Ganesha (the god of good fortune who provides prosperity, fortune and success, as well as the remover of obstacles) into their homes. People take great care to clean and declutter their homes, offices and places of work. Whether one is rich or poor, all equally do their best to clean their surroundings and decorate

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the house either on the floor or walls. Rangoli is made using materials like colored sand, colored rice, dry flour, or flower petals to make patterns to welcome Maa Lakshmi (the goddess of wealth) and Lord Ganesha (the god of good fortune who provides prosperity, fortune and success, as well as the remover of obstacles) into their homes. People take great care to clean and declutter their homes, offices and places of work. Whether one is rich or poor, all equally do their best to clean their surroundings and decorate their homes. On Diwali, people exchange sweets and well wishes among relatives and friends.

Employers pay a special yearly bonus to employees in India.

The exchange of sweets is to have good feelings for each other, forget enmity and be friendly. Doing charity signifies goodness and kind heartedness. Wearing new clothes brings in feeling of happiness and wellbeing. Puja or prayers brings positivity and removes negativity from our lives.

Jainism, Diwali marks the spiritual awakening of Lord Mahavir. Similarly on this day Sikh Guru Hargobind was released from captivity of Mughal Emperor Jahangir. Therefore, the people rejoice and celebrate Diwali for all of these reasons.

Everything we do to celebrate Diwali has significance. The lighting of lamps is to remove the darkness from our hearts and enlightens ourselves with good thoughts. Cleaning and decorating means taking care of our surroundings, environment and mother earth.

Diwali gives us the message of brotherhood, happiness and prosperity. Evil cannot exist for long. It must be defeated at the earliest.

When a child is born, he speaks the first word - “MAA”. Maa Lakshmi is the Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity. She was born from the earth. Earth provides us with life by giving us food, water, air and shelter. The message of Diwali is to keep this earth clearer of pollution and protect the environment.

Trees are the ornaments of mother earth. Let us all protect them and work towards afforestation.

Sanya Dhingra Sanya Dhingra is one of AAJ magazine’s youngest columnists. She is very active in the community and a blossoming kathak performer.

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T O D AY

HOW BUSY ARE YOU? 19

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I saw a friend a few weeks ago who was vibrant and full of joy, and when she did not respond to our usual ‘hey how are you’, I became concerned. I was informed she was diagnosed with cancer and preparing for chemo. I went to visit her, and we had a conversation that was like hitting repeat ‘life is short, we are all so busy’.

I got a call few hours later from a friend who I tried to set up a coffee date, same thing “I am so busy…and so much to do.” Informing me that she had to cancel our date to several weeks later. I sat in my car, feeling sad but the tone of these individuals was exacerbated, tired, and overwhelmed.

wondered when there was free open expressive time for these young ones. I understood how the patterns become fixed in the young minds as they have been trained by the parents early on in I did not only find this in adults but in life. I have heard parents say ‘busy kids children, including are good kids’. I my own where we do wonder today When was the last time we got up at 6am and left after raising two asked about how we are really children who are the house at 7:15am feeling? Where are we empty returning home on young adults. piano lesson days at in our hearts? What are we 8pm, with soccer etc. searching for to fill that void?

I would see my neighHow have we We are driven by the digital bours garage open arrived here? and close as they saw world, where a certain pause is Why did we do mine. A wave here and a disturbance because someone this to our famthere, with a mind full ilies? When did did not ‘like’ or send us a of to do lists for the day. we forget that

message.

I moved to Prince George with two toddlers, and wanted to connect to community and asked one of the mother’s with similar age children to get together and she stated “were a busy family, and Drive around town and live in my car.” I think were are free for 45 minutes next Thursday?

I wondered about when kids play? I

we are human beings not human machines?

We are doing to our children, what was done to us. Keeping them busy, busy, busy!

Where have those days gone where we sat and spoke about the garden flowers, the baked apple pie in the oven while we share the stories, the songs, and dancing.

When was the last time we asked about how we are really feeling? Where are

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we empty in our hearts? What are we searching for to fill that void? We are driven by the digital world, where a certain pause is a disturbance because someone did not ‘like’ or send us a message.

We and side just

have lost the ability to play less work more, less time to look inourselves, time for family, and sit by the fireplace and be?

The digital world has made remarkable contributions to simplify our lives, but we have become addicted to the fast pace and chasing time. I noted a couple in a fine dining table where both were wrapped to their fine apple products.

I find myself on my laptop doing my masters work, waiting for emails, a phone message to keep me from connections.

What has become extinct is where one adult worked and one looked after the home and children with time in the evening for the entire family to sit and cuddle.

We do have free will and options to be the change we want. In our culture with Dewali around the corner, we need to create the TIME which we long for and bring our hand together close to our hear and unite as one with Namaste! I am one with you and you in me.

You open your eyes begin to walk again with your dear friend beside you who continues to tell you how she has been.

A few step forward with growing curiosity you are all ears, and she spots a bench in the middle of the forest unexpectedly and points it our to you. You both walk towards the bench and find painted rocks on the bench, below the bench and the trees that create the sacred space nearby. More rocks different colours, with words that read ‘peace, family, joy, hope, and love. Both my friend and I begin to craft a story about how wonderful that someone took time to decorate the forest where another would enjoy the rest on the bench while reading the rocks finding joy in their hearts.

My friend was sharing a troubling story and I took the opportunity to tell her that the universe created this space and the rock on the bench that read ‘hope’. This made her smile.

This Dewalli, perhaps you too can make someone smile, listen to a story, and even hold hands with someone and dance with them.

looks up to the sun on a cold fall day.

Rosy Mann Rosy is currently working on a masters in counselling, holds a BSc (UNBC). Moving meditation facilitator, NIA first degree black belt instructor. Lead workshops, public speaker, and following her dream to transform suffering into Art.

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AAJ Media, the National South Asian lifestyle Media with a pulse on the community and real stories that matter.

AAJ Media Group info@aajmag.ca | 604 590.0007 | 778.564.2250 AAJMAG.CA

Happy Diwali

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TA S T E

Healthy Fats: Give yourself the gift of health this Diwali 23

AAJ MAGAZINE

Fat is important for health. Fats help your body function in many ways, like providing your body with energy, protecting your organs, cell growth, making hormones and taking in nutrients. But remember -- not all fats are the same.

What are the types of fat?

There are three types of fat: unsaturated fat, saturated fat, and trans fat. Unsaturated fats, such as olive oil, avocado oil, and canola oil, may improve blood cholesterol levels and help keep your heart healthy. Nuts and seeds -- like almonds, pecans, and sesame seeds -- avocadoes, and fatty fish like salmon are also good sources of unsaturated fats. Saturated fats and trans fats are unhealthy fats that can increase your risk of heart disease as they have shown to increase LDL cholesterol which block arteries. Try to lower how much saturated fat you eat each day by choosing lean meat with no fat on it, choosing lower fat milk, butter milk, and limiting cream.

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy fat-like substance in your body. The two main types of cholesterol are called HDL and LDL cholesterol. HDL cholesterol is often referred to as healthy cholesterol because high levels of HDL can help protect your heart.

Whereas, having high levels of LDL cholesterol can block arteries and increase your risk of heart disease. Choose healthy fats, such as unsaturated fats, most often and try to exercise for at least 30 minutes every day. By choosing healthy unsaturated fats and being physically active, you can increase your HDL cholesterol and lower your LDL cholesterol, which will decrease your risk of heart disease.

How can I cook with less fat at home?

When cooking at home, use fats that are high in unsaturated fat to keep your body healthy. Avoid or limit fats that are high in saturated fat and trans fats to reduce harm Choose Often Avocado oil Canola oil Flaxseed oil Grapeseed oil Mustard Oil Olive Oil

Limit Butter Coconut oil Ghee Hard margarine Whipped butter Palm oil

Instead of butter, give flavour to food using ginger, garlic, lemon juice, lime juice, vinegar, spices, and herbs, like fresh cilantro and parsley. Limit foods with cream, butter milk and sour cream, such as butter chicken, shahi paneer, dal makhani, and kadhi made with chickpea flour.

Remember

to

celebrate

Diwali

by

making

healthier

food

choices.

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Baked Paneer Tikka Serves: 1 person Try our baked paneer tikka recipe to celebrate Diwali with a healthy twist on a favourite.

Ingredients: For the Paneer

Cooking Methods

2 cups paneer, cubed into 1-inch pieces 1 medium white onion, cut into 1-inch cube 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch cube 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch cube ½ lime

Mix all marinade ingredients into a large bowl. Add paneer and toss well ensuring an even coat. Cover and set aside for minimum 1 hour. Preheat oven to 430 degrees Fahrenheit.

To make skewers, alternate paneer cubes, onion, peppers, and paneer. Place skewers onto a cooling rack and bake for 15 minutes, turning the skewers half way. For slightly charred tikka skewers, broil for 2 to 3 minutes.

Remove from oven and squeeze lime juice on top.

Enjoy!

For the Marinade 2 tbsp mustard oil 2 garlic cloves, minced 1-inch piece of ginger, grated ½ cup plain Greek yogurt 2 tsp paprika 1 tbsp coriander powder or cumin 1 tsp garam masala 1 tsp dried fenugreek leaves

Enjoy this Delicious meal during the festive season of Diwali

Sharon Heer Sharon is a Registered Dietitian currently working with the South Asian Health Institute, a Fraser Health program aiming to improve the overall health of the South Asian population. Sharon is passionate about helping others learn how to eat better and enjoy a healthier lifestyle.

Happy Diwali

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T O D AY

Dr.Ambedkar Chetna Award Four community leaders and well-wishers were honored and recognized for their services to the community at an award night hosted by Chetna Association of Canada on October 14, 2018 in Vancouver. These included: Ms. Santosh Dass of UK for highlighting prevalence of castebased discrimination in the UK and she received the Dr. Ambedkar Social Justice Award. Mr. Jay Minhas was honored with lifetime achievement award for setting up eye camps and a university in India to help underprivileged and marginalized communities in Punjab. Mr. Bhagwant Rasulouri, a story and a scriptwriter based in Punjab. Mr. Promod Puri, a pioneer in

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the field of media and the founder of the first South Asian Newspaper in English was presented with unique award, S. Tara Singh Hayer Journalism Award, a recognition established in partnership between Chetna Association of Canada and Ibdo-Canadian Times Newspaper. Mr. Puri has not only spoken out against many injustices but has also wrote many blogs on the value of uniting diverse communities instead of continuing to remain divided and segregated because of misinformation or misinterpretation.

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Wishing you a Happy Eid!

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T O D AY

Shubh Diwali From GSBC

The Gujarati Society of British Columbia wishes to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Shubh Diwali and Happy New Year. May you all be blessed with good health, happiness and prosperity in the new year. With so much turmoil and unrest in many parts of the world, GSBC would like to remind everyone to be grateful for the beautiful country that we live in and to do your part in making our home a place of light and love for everyone, regardless of race, religion, culture or creed.

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GSBC is a non-profit society which was founded in 1969 and will be celebrating its 50th anniversary next year. Last year’s board of directors undertook the significant task of updating GSBC’s Constitution and Bylaws to more accurately reflect the charitable work that the Society has been engaged in over the years; specifically in the areas of religion, activities for seniors and education. GSBC is open to anyone who supports our mandate and believes in the charitable work it does. GSBC is operated exclusively by volunteers and through the generosity of its many donors and sponsors.

This year GSBC’s board of directors organized three days of Navratri to sold out crowds at the Riverside Signature Hall in Surrey and for the first time ever the attendees enjoyed garba music from an Indian band featuring singers Asif Jeriya and Yutika Verma (Indian Idol 6 Finalist).

GSBC’s annual Diwali Celebration will take place on Nov 10, 2018 at the Riverside Grand Ballroom in Richmond. The Board is proud to announce that in keeping with

the founding members’ vision on the advancement of education, GSBC has created a scholarship program which is intended to become an annual award. This year GSBC will be presenting two $1,000 scholarships to Shivani Mehta and Yaksh Shah, both of whom just started their post graduate studies at the University of British Columbia.

All applicants for the scholarship went through a rigourous vetting procedure and GSBC wishes to thank all who took the time to apply and wish them well as they pursue post-secondary studies.

GSBC wants to thank Aaj Media Group for being our exclusive media partner for 2018. Our mutual relationship has lasted for many years and we are proud to be working with such great people who enjoy bringing the community together. For more information or to donate, visit www. gsbc.ca.

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HELP KIDS HELP KIDS SHINE SHINE

At BC Children’s Hospital, we are built to heal. It’s in our DNA. At BC Children’s Hospital, we are built to heal. It’s in our DNA. It fuels our journey of providing the most nurturing environment, It fuels our journey of providing the most nurturing environment,

most advanced technology and the highest level of care for the most advanced technology and the highest level of care for the 86,000 kids that eachyear year from across 86,000 kids thatwe we see see each from across BC. BC. ThisThis Diwali, your can help Diwali, yourgenerosity generosity can help ourour kidskids shine.shine.

bcchf.ca/donate bcchf.ca/donate 604.875.2444 604.875.2444

Photography & Videography

Happy Diwali WEDDINGS

CORPORATE

SPECIAL EVENTS

LIFESTYLE

DIWALI IN MUMBAI 39

AAJ MAGAZINE

The festival season was always special to me, growing up in Mumbai. It was an early Sunday morning in October, around 6:00 am, when I was awakened by voices shouting with excitement followed by the sound of gushing water. I sprang out of my bed to look out the window, and lo and behold, the people on the top floor were washing their balcony, creating a waterfall that poured down the side of the building.

For those who are not familiar with Diwali in Mumbai, it is customary to wash one’s house before the festival to welcome the goddess Laxmi (goddess of wealth) into their homes. The idea that Laxmi may think their house is not clean and not visit them is by itself devastating to many people. Laxmi Puja (offering prayers to the goddess Laxmi) is performed during this festival. It is also popular for people to display their artistic skills in the form of Rangoli, which is a decorative geometric or floral design prepared in front of their homes. Rangoli is made using bright and colorful materials, like Rangoli powder, rice flour made into a paste, and fresh flowers. There are even Rangoli competitions held at various centers where one can see many exquisite designs.

In the evening, people hang colored paper lanterns known as “Akash Kandil” in front of their homes and prepare arrangements of ornamental oil lamps.

The essence of Diwali is to remove the darkness in life and enlighten it with the brightness of victory of good over

evil. The greatest attractions are the lively fireworks, which delight one and all, though recently due to an increase in the pollution level there have been restrictions imposed on the use of fire crackers.

People wear elegant clothing and intricate jewellery during Diwali, make delicious sweets and savouries, and share them while exchanging gifts with family and friends. The best thing about Diwali in Mumbai is that people of all faiths join in with the celebrations. I will always treasure my life spent in Mumbai and the community unity, along with the spirit of love, harmony, and fun. Happy Diwali to all!

Photo credit SHISHIR GOPINATH .

Rupa Gopinath Mrs. Rupa Gopinath is a classical Indian dancer, teacher, choreographer and CEO and Artistic Director of Mihika Arts.

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LIFESTYLE

DIWALI ACROSS CANADA 41

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Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated across the globe. As stated by an organization called Diwali-Fest (in British Columbia), “Diwali is the biggest, brightest and most popular event in the Indian calendar . . . It is a time for lighting diyas, exchanging sweets, and celebrating with dance, music and storytelling.” To commemorate AAJ magazine’s national endeavour, let’s take a look at how it is celebrated across Canada.

With over 200,000 people of Indian ethnic origin living in beautiful British Columbia, there is no doubt that the province showcases an abundance of festivities extending from Victoria island, to the Lower Mainland and beyond. Just take a drive through Surrey on Diwali night and you will experience endless fireworks across the city. One of the largest Diwali-themed events in the Lower Mainland is Diwali Fest, an annual celebration put together by the Diwali Celebration Society; a group that organizes a variety of events in various Lower Mainland cities for the month of October. Some of these events are free, while others require ticket purchases.

In Alberta, there are numerous Diwali parties at various community centres throughout Calgary and Edmonton. Numerous indian student groups at colleges and universities also organize events to celebrate the festival, with people from diverse backgrounds joining in to experience the unique culture and traditions.

There are even more Indians in Ontario than in British Columbia. According to census Canada, there are over 500,000 people of Indian ethnic origin residing in the province. Ontario celebrates Diwali with a multitude of events including Diwali Dhamaka in London, Diwali Fest at Bramlea City Centre in Brampton, and Diwali RazzMatazz in Mississauga.

Diwali is India’s largest and most celebrated festival. Apart from the events listed above, Diwali is celebrated at religious venues across the globe. This Diwali, AAJ Magazine would like to thank you for your continuous support, and wishes you a happy and prosperous future!

In Manitoba, the Hindu Society of Manitoba organizes a fun-filled evening held at Winnipeg’s RBC Convention Centre. Admission to the event is free, and food is available for purchase.

There are also numerous cultural workshops, and a raffle for great prizes.

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T O D AY

Karwa Chauth & Diwali Mela

Presented by Fatma Studios In Association with AAJ Media Group

On October 25th, 2018 Fatma Studios in association with AAJ Media Group celebrated Karwa Chauth and Diwali Mela at Royal King Palace.

Karwa Chauth reflects the rich Indian culture and value systems ingrained in the society. This annual Mela was a free event and was filled with fun. There were a variety of different vendors including: mehndi, Indian clothing, jewellery, shoes, health & beauty, food and entertainment.

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It was a remarkable event and received wonderful feedbacks from the people who visited and made the event successful. The mela showcased the best runway looks on the traditional Indian bridal outfits.

The organizers would like to take the opportunity to thank all the volunteers, performers and models who were a crucial part in the success of the event.

Fatma from Fatma Studios The doors to my dream, FatmaStudios opened on August 27th 2008.

Here we provide hair and skin care, including bridal henna, hair and makeup. It’s “one stop shop for all your beauty needs” I would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who was associated with the success of the event!We would love to thank to all sponsors for their, sponsorship. India’s first South Asian Cultural wedding planner, AAJ media, South Asian Woman Magazine, Copytek Regal fabrics & Saree, Red FM, Pixel Solutions, Radio Fiji Mirchi, Rosika Esthetics & Dapi Garewal Mortgage Advisor.

Thank to all my friends who sent the giveaway prizes for the winners: Kiran Purewal - Drama Queen Studios, Saab Kaur - Hair & Makeup by Saab, Lakhwinder- Komal beauty Salon, Anita Hundal - Zaira’s couture, Mausam Collections, Naz - Rosika Esthetics, Simran Nanda - Simran Nanda Makeover Studio,Amita - Styleinn Beautysalon, and Fatma Mehendi Fatma Studio.

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Happy Diwali

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T O D AY

SPARK WITHIN YOUTH CONFERENCE: UNLOCK YOUR PASSION, DISCOVER YOUR PATHWAY 49

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The inaugural SPARK withIN 2018 Youth Conference was held on Sunday, October 28th at the Surrey Arts Centre, featuring a diverse lineup of inspiring speakers, talented artists, and engaging exhibitors, representing a wide-variety of career fields and community organizations.

Kelly, SFU Professor of Indigenous Education and Art, Natalie Tin Yin Gan, Interdisciplinary Artist, Paneet Singh, Playwright and Filmmaker, Abubakar Khan, Community Activist, Bryan Gidinski, Educator and Diversity Advocate, and Sukhmeet Sachal, Founder of Break the Divide.

The non-profit event is the initiative of two volunteer-run, mentorship and community service focused, non-profit societies: SONG Creative Mentorship and AltruYouth Association.

SPARK - which stands for speakers, performers, aspirers, role-models, knowledge-sharers - was officially opened by the Hon. Melanie Mark, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Training, and closed by the Hon. Lisa Beare, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture.

MLA Ravi Kahlon and MLA Anne Kang also shared their unique experiences and perspectives with the audience.

Over 400 youth attended and volunteered at SPARK withIN from 10am to 5pm, as they connected with world-renowned humanitarian, Ravi Singh, founder of the international relief organization, Khalsa Aid, the Hon. Harjit Singh Sajjan, the Minister of National Defence, Canadian Paralympian, Donovan Tildesley, Dr. Vicki

With the tremendous success of the conference, preparations are already underway for SPARK withIN 2019!

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Happy Diwali

FAMILIARITY As one of our financial services professionals, you are rooted in your own community. You know your clients well. That’s how you can help them make informed decisions and look to the future with confidence and peace of mind.

PERMINDER CHOHAN Managing Director

604-518-7300 perminder.chohan@dfsin.ca 210-21900 Westminster Hwy Richmond, BC V6V 0A8 Office: 604-592-7550 | Fax: 604-592-7559 www.dfsin.ca

Sounds good? Join us. Make a difference.

From Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and your Liberal MPs

Happy Diwali Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau

John Aldag, M.P.

Sukh Dhaliwal, M.P.

Ken Hardie, M.P.

Gordie Hogg, M.P.

Joe Peschisolido, M.P.

Hon. Carla Qualtrough,

Dan Ruimy, M.P.

Hon. Harjit S. Sajjan, M.P.

Randeep S. Sarai, M.P.

Jati Sidhu, M.P.

M.P.

TODAY

Happy Diwali From Yogi Amandeep

Yogi Amandeep Singh’s work involves focusing on dissolving modern-day stress, depression, and addiction. He helps us to see the practical tools and techniques the Siri Guru Granth Sahib gives to people so they can dissolve any mental illness to achieve their life’s highest purpose. For more teachings, visit Yogi Amandeep Singh’s YouTube Channel and website.

Yogi Amandeep will be holding a free workshop in Surrey, BC in January 2019.

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T O D AY

3RD GRAND DIWALI GALA : 13TH OCT 2018.

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The BC-India Business Network, held it’s Third Annual Signature Event, “THE GRAND DIWALI GALA” at the “Ballroom”, Fairmont Waterfront Hotel, Canada Place, Vancouver, on Saturday 13th October 2018. The “Festival of Lights” was celebrated with great gusto in the presence of distinguished guests from the Provincial Government , Eminent Businessmen and Citizens of BC.

The well organized Gala was celebrated in grand style. It was a sold out event with guests dressed in colorful ethnic costumes to mark the beginning Diwali celebrations in the true Indian traditional way.

The event began with a welcome address by Vivek Savkur, President & CEO of BC-India Business Network followed by the playing of the National Anthems of Canada and India, Both the Anthems were specially composed by the eminent Indian Grammy Award winner and Conservationist Ricky Kej.

The guests included Honourable Abhilasha Joshi, Consul General of India in Vancouver; Honorable Bruce Ralston, Minister of Jobs,Trade and Technology ; Randeep Sarai, MP, Honorable Andrew Petter, President & Vice Chancellor of the Simon Fraser University and Marvin Hunt,

MLA, all of whom addressed the jubilant audience.

To mark the occasion of Dassera and Diwali a colourful ballet “The Goddess and the Demon” depicting the theme of Dassera and Diwali viz. Victory of Good Over Evil, was very artistically presented by SGR Communications under the able direction of Sumita Roy. This colorful performance confirmed the multicultural facet of Canada and was very well acclaimed by the guests present. The ballet was followed by sizzling Bollywood dance performances by the duo from Andaz Entertainment.

The Buffet dinner which followed the entertainment had a wide variety of Indian Cuisine and Diwali delicacies specially prepared by Master Chef Karan Suri of the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel. The guests could not stop raving over the tasty dishes and variety of culinary delights superbly presented and prepared by expert Chefs from India. Many of the guests come each year, attracted by the quality of food and beverages served at the BCIBN Grand Diwali Gala.

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Fine Organic Wines to suit the Spices of India, were sponsored by Karnail Singh Sidhu and his gracious wife Narinder, owners of Kalala Organic Wines, Kelowna.

They have been sponsoring their Award Winning wines every year since the last five years at the BCIBN Diwali Gala.

The exciting event of the evening was the much awaited draw for two Premium Economy Class tickets to Indian destinations gifted by Air Canada., the Patrons of the BC-India Business Network. James Howey of Air Canada also announced dai-

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ly non stop flights from Vancouver to Delhi, with effect from 2nd June 2019 which will bring BC and India closer commercially and culturally . The direct non stop flights between Vancouver and India, will give a big boost to BC-India Business.

This perhaps was the best Grand Diwali Gala, organized by BC-India Business Network so far, which had a colourful ambience, delightful food, classic wines and superb entertainment. It was an evening to remember.

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