192 November 2014

NOVEMBER 2014 ISSUE No.192

MONTHLY

INSIDE: DESIXPRESS

www.desixpress.co.uk

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NOVEMBER 2014 DESI XPRESS 51

DESI

KESH

K

XPRESS

NO.1 FOR ASIAN ENTERTAINMENT

NURUN KESH K AHMED SPECIAL: THE APPRENTICE STAR

www.theasiantoday.com PROMOTING EDUCATION, DIVERSITY & INTEGRATION NEWSPAPER YOUR FREE ASIAN COMMUNITY RD AWA G NINER WIN AP WSP

THE ASIAN TODAY’S ANITA CHUMBER NAMED WOMAN OF THE YEAR

LEADING LADY OF THE OSCARS On an unforgettable Thursday evening, Birmingham’s unsung heroes gathered to celebrate achievements, accomplishments and recognition of selfless dedication. Amongst the winners of the 3rd annual Heart of Birmingham Oscar Awards was the Editor of The Asian Today, Anita Chumber.

Picking up the Woman

of the Year award, she described it as ‘surprising’ and ‘unexpected.’ “I am so overwhelmed and winning the award feels surreal.

This is the result of all the hard work of the team at The Asian Today. We have put a lot of effort in pushing The Asian Today at the forefront of issues affecting our community.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: SPECIAL FEATURE: WHO IS MALALA YOUSAFZAI? - PG 32 SPECIAL ADOPTION FEATURE: A PLACE CALLED HOME - PG 20

INTERVIEW

A

BRINGING YOU NEWS SINCE 2002

NE

EXCLUSIVE

TALKS ABOUT HER INCREDIBLE JOURNEY PG 56

SPORTS: WASIM KHAN INTERVIEW - PG 78

new rising star has emerged to take his place in the music industry. DesiXpress had the pleasure of speaking to up and coming singer, Kesh K. What makes Kesh stand out from the crowd is his passion for classical genres of music. This resulted in the release of his new single ‘Bhula Na Sakey’, a beautiful song with a blend of classical genres such as Sufi and Bollywood Gayaki. A multi-talented performer who is passionate about his work, Kesh sat down to talk about his influences, musical journey and latest song.

pg 54-55

20 YEARS OF UNINTERRUPTED

DDLJ

Aditya Chopra's Classic Rom-Com Breaks More Records

BOY GENIUS! DESIXPRESS:

KESH K INTERIVEW - PG 54

LOCAL 5-YEAR-OLD BECOMES YOUNGEST CERTIFIED MICROSOFT COMPUTER SPECIALIST

• LOCAL GENIUS: Ayan Qureshi

A

Birmingham based 5-year-old boy has become the youngest-ever certified Microsoft Computer Specialist. Ayan Qureshi took the exam at the age of five and overtook Pakistani Mehroz Yawar for the coveted title.

Speaking to The Asian Today he described how he felt.

"I developed an interest in computers at a very early age. I used to sit next to my dad, watching

him working on computers and hi-tech stuff.

That was the turning point. It was the time I started playing with computers. As the time passed my interest in computers grew and it became hobby for me to play around with computers, there was more and more interest and fun for me in the computing while I was learning and grasping the concepts.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

READ THE LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES ON OUR WEBSITE: WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM

“

NOVEMBER 2014

CONTENT

I studied Microsoft books, set up my own home IT lab comprising of computers, laptops, routers, switches, firewall, cables, connectors, interfaces, cable tester and relevant tools

Local News

47 DesiXpress 51 Fashion & Beauty 60

Food & Travel 62 Lifestyle 64 Technology National International Business Property Motoring Sports

65 58 59 69 70 73 80

SPORTS

WASIM KHAN INTERVIEW

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2

• LOCAL GENIUS: Ayan Qureshi

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE:

My dad spotted this potential and talent and decided to channelise it.

So, we decided that we should set up a new world record, that's how it started."

"I passed the standard examination procedure at the prometric centre in Birmingham City University. It took me many months to prepare for the exam and certification," "I studied Microsoft books, set up my own home IT lab comprising of computers, laptops, routers, switches, firewall, cables, connectors, interfaces, cable tester and relevant tools. I was installing and configuring operating system on the computers and laptops in the lab. I interconnected computers, I was so excited when I set up my first computer network in the lab especially when I saw that these

devices were pinging with each other and data was being transferred from one device to another."

"I used to practise and study in my lab every day for one to two hours.

It took many months to prepare for the certification. In the beginning it was a bit difficult but I still enjoyed it. I got Microsoft books and training material from the London based IT training company (ITBOLTS), the teacher was very cooperative. The IT company, I used, gave me a lot of technical advice."

"My parents always support and encourage me, my dad played a major role in helping me to build up my own home computer lab, where I practiced and studied for the exam."

When asked whether it would have had a negative effect on him, given his age, his father, Asim, brushed the comments off. "Supervision, guidance,

training and parental control is very important, while the kids are playing with computers on their own. There is always a potential situation where kids can have negative effect as well.

If all the precaution and security measurements are taken into account there are very less chances."

Ayan might not be fully aware what he has achieved, but his remarkable achievements is testament to the very fact that the next generation of the Asian community are being brought up with their ancestors grit.

Ayan has a bright future ahead of him, choices and many avenues are open for him. His father’s optimism for him comes in the form of his son’s already established future. "He has a couple of ideas and projects in his mind, if he managed to cash them at the right time he will earn his fortune."

“DEATH TRAP” RESTAURANT

PAKISTAN WIN TEST SERIES AGAINST AUSTRAILIA

TURN TO PAGE 80

• COVENTRY: Bengal Spice

GET IN TOUCH:

Bengal Spice restaurant on Corporation Street was described as a “death trap” to court after a slew of fire safety breaches were discovered.

The fire alarm system was damaged, the fire extinguisher had not been tested for six years and the fire doors were locked shut.

Owners Mohammed Uddin and Monowara Begum, pleaded guilty at Warwick Crown Court in Leamington to 12 charges of breaching fire regulations.

Manager Uddin, 48, and Begum, 38, both from Stoney, Foleshill, also admitted two more serious charges of failing to comply with a prohibition notice.

Uddin, who held majority of the responsibility for the offences, was sentenced to eight months in prison.

IN THIS MONTH:

EDITORIAL

INDIA - 26TH NOVEMBER 2008

Got a story? E-mail it to us at: editorial@theasiantoday.com

200 die in the Mumbai Attacks

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE: Due to our continued determination and contribution, the paper has also been nominated for the Asian Media Awards again, having won the inaugural award last year. Along with this we have been nominated for a Bhangra Award in the category of Best Publication and an Institute of Asian Business Award in the category of Outstanding Community Service.

We have been able to establish a foundation where the emphasis is always to better the community we live in. Our vision, imagination and ideas have propelled the publication into becoming media partners for high profile campaigns."

Instrumental in ensuring that the organisation engaged with both individuals and businesses Anita has been able to deliver the invaluable mission statement of The Asian Today – to promote education, diversity and integration within the community and voicing their concerns. With the addition of several new team members the paper has been able to cover new ground and push the limits of investigative journalism without the fear of cultural sensitivity.

The Asian Today has led the way with exclusive news stories which have been echoed by mainstream, local and national press. The paper aims to promote a new dimension to the British Asian community by exploring subjects and topics affecting second and third generation Asians whilst maintaining content of interest for elder members of the community.

Outstanding, neutral and unbiased reporting the aim for The Asian Today is always to educate and inform the community.

THE TEAM EDITOR

CONTRIBUTORS

SENIOR JOURNALIST

Manisha Tailor Anita Champaneria Manish Gujjar Ninder Johal Rednote Book Stylist Mita Mistry Sara Khan Raza Ullah Samar Dal Dhaliwal Irwin Mitchell Heartlands Hospital Kam Chopra Husna Anjum Ayyaz Malik Sunny Gill

Anita Chumber Hifzha Shaheen

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PAKISTAN - 25TH NOVEMBER 2007 Nawaz Sharif returns to Pakistan after 7 years of forced exile.

Anita Chumber Juvaria Aslam

CREATIVE DIRECTOR David Ley

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BANGLADESH - 15TH NOV 2007 Cyclone Sidr hits the coast, causing the death of around 3,500 people

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A BURDEN BORNE

"This is a curse within our community that unfortunately isn't the curse of being a girl; it's about [the] curse of discrimination."

How Asian women are forced into gender-specific abortions

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Discrimination sadly begins from the moment a child is conceived where many South Asian families pressure women to abort baby girls due to cultural ignorance.

These people deny mothers the chance to cradle their beautiful daughters in their arms, to allow future mothers to be born and carry on the family line, to give a female child the same basic rights a male child is given so adoringly. It seems in the eyes of ill-mannered people, these girls commit the heinous crime of simply being born the wrong gender. One passionate MP believes such people should be brought to the book.

Labour MP Vivendra Sharma recently announced that, “If nothing else, then name and shame those families or individuals who are putting pressure on the young girls.� “What is most needed is the woman who is carrying the child needs to be empowered that she gets the support from society and from the system that if she is put under pressure, she can take the legal remedy against those people who are putting her under pressure.�

Rani Bilkhu, from the campaign group Jeena International, said South Asian women born in the UK or their native countries were under pressure to abort girls and were abused in harrowing ways.

"We have a high rate of women coming to us and saying, 'We are being threatened and coerced to having abortions, we're being thrown down the stairs.'

NEWS

"What is most needed is the woman who is carrying the child needs to be empowered that she gets the support from society..."

"There's also women who've actually had girls, and have been left in hospital wards, because they feel that they've shamed the family and that woman is cursed.�

"Equally we know girls and families that aren't marriageable because they have five siblings who are all girls. This is a curse within our community that unfortunately isn't the curse of being a girl; it's about [the] curse of discrimination."

A harrowing incident involved a husband punching his pregnant wife in the stomach repeatedly after discovering she was carrying a girl.

A study by Sylvie Dubuc, from Oxford University, revealed the ratio of boys to girls born to Indian mothers was 114:100, drastically higher than the ratio for all women at 104:100. The study observed 23.4 million births over a 15-year period up to 2005, and concluded that over 1,500 baby girls went “missing� during that time.

In January, it was revealed that the natural balance of boys and girls in some immigrant communities was greatly off balance. In response to this, the UK Government intends to alter the 1967 Abortion Act this week, as it does not specifically outlaw terminations based on gender.

‘MAKE LEICESTER BRITISH’ REACTION HEATED DEBATE SURROUNDS THE CHANNEL 4 SHOW

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The controversial show ‘Make Leicester British’ aired this month and has split opinion on how much it contributed to the discussion on immigration and integration.

The Channel 4 documentary had eight people from different ethnic backgrounds live under the same roof before moving into each other’s homes for short periods. They ranged from being British born to being immigrants,

some holding stringent views on matters of immigration.

Indian-born cafĂŠ owner Suky claimed the UK had “too many immigrants, flooded with themâ€?.

Fellow Indian Kit shared similar views stating that immigrants and asylum seekers must not be let into the country, she also berated immigrants for relying on benefits whilst her family who came into the UK, according to her, worked tirelessly to

support themselves.

All participants held varying views, but the programme has been accused of wrongly labeling Leicester a “divided city�.

Suleman Nagdi, spokesman for the Leicestershire Federation of Muslim Organisations said, “Leicester is not a divided city.� “Not everything is perfect of course, but it is regarded across Europe as a successful multicultural city.� “The Somali community has arrived in the city relatively recently and has settled pretty well and has moved into the world of work and enterprise.� “But it is still a very young community, as are the Afghan and Iraqi communities which have settled here.�

One Somali

immigrant woman, Sagal, endured tirades of abuse from Sukiy and Kit due to her refugee status and sympathetic views on immigration.

Some have argued it made for uncomfortable viewing.

However the show did allow the participants to reveal their stories about coming into the country and the hardships they had endured. This made for a more open minded discussion about the issues the show had raised.

Whilst some left the show with changed views others left on a sour terms, notably Sagal and Kit who clashed heavily.

Whether the show depicted Leicester in an accurate way or not, it has no doubt sparked fierce debate on a hot topic.

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‘SPY’ APP ARREST

• ARRESTED: Hammad Akbar

American officials arrested Hammad Akbar for selling a mobile phone app that secretly recorded calls and intercepted emails and texts. Called ‘Stealthgenie’, lawyers for the US Department of Justice described the system as, “expressly designed for use by stalkers and domestic abusers.”

Pakistan born Akbar was indicted last month in the first US based case concerning the promotion and sale of a mobile device spyware app. FBI were led to an IT store based in Hall Green where an “untraceable” app was advertised on its website.

Investigators revealed that 31-year-old had been selling the app for four years, breaking US laws which outlaw spyware technology.

It is usable on Apple’s iPhone, Google’s Android and the Blackberry.

The easy-to-install app’s uses included turning someone’s mobile on or off and recording conversations within a 15-feet radius.

The app also recorded phone calls as they were made and hacked into emails, photographs and calendars unbeknownst to the user.

In order to install the app you need the target’s phone for only a few minutes, it then sent all intercepted messages to the customer’s account and the information could be viewed on any computer with internet access.

BOGUS FAITH HEALERS

PM David Cameron reveals hopes for a British-Asian Prime Minister

Leicester’s branch of the Indian Workers’ Association (IWA) discussed the issue of fake faith healers with Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg.

• RISING STAR OF THE TORY PARTY : Sajid Javed

AN ASIAN PM? T

he PM made the statement after Culture Secretary Sajid Javid was awarded the honour of most influential Asian in the UK. Mr. Cameron was “incredibly proud” that the first Asian Cabinet Minister was honoured the GG2 Leadership Awards celebrating Asian achievements.

Javid was promoted to Culture, Media and Sport Secretary in April after quickly climbing the ranks of the party.

He was among 101 Asians nominated, beating competitors such as Malala Yousafzai, fellow MPs and One Direction member Zayn Malik.

In a speech to guests at the Westminster Park Plaza Hotel in central

London the Prime Minister said, “I am incredibly proud that number one on your power list is Saijd Javid, the brilliant Asian man that I asked to join the Cabinet.”

“And I know we have more to do to encourage true opportunity and diversity in our country but doesn't it say something about our country that in two generations you go from coming to our country with so little to sitting round a Cabinet table - that's the sort of country we're building in the United Kingdom.”

“In Britain today there are still too few people from ethnic minorities in top positions, as has just been said the

NEWS

absence is glaring in the boardrooms of FTSE 250, in the chambers of the Houses of Parliament, on football managers' benches, on high court judges' benches and in our fighter jets, our naval ships and our armed battalions around the world.”

Mr. Cameron insisted this lack of diversity had to change, he then added, “When I hear those terms Your Honour, Brigadier General, Right Honourable, more often I want to hear it followed by a British-Asian name.”

“And yes, one day I want to hear that title Prime Minister, followed by a British-Asian name - just not immediately if that's OK by you.”

According to them, con artists operate in the city by advertising their services in foreign language newspapers, distributing business cards through letterboxes and leaving them on car windscreens.

They claim to use the power of prayer to heal broken marriages, solve financial problems and even cure HIV or cancer.

Sital Singh Gill, leader of the IWA in Leicester met Mr Clegg in London to explain that branches of the group across the country know of such cases. Mr. Gill told Mr. Clegg that many fake healers are based in the UK while others travel here on visitor visas and make huge sums of money before leaving.

He said, “Ministers were surprised and shocked on hearing what was going on and agreed to look at the matter seriously and respond to the concerns raised by the IWA. “We will carry on our campaign against these criminals who are exploiting innocent British people.”

He however revealed that police and Leicester’s trading standards officials were taking the issue “very seriously”.

In September, Leicestershire Police claimed to have put together a team of officers to find out about the seriousness of the problem and ways of stopping it. Leading members of the city’s faith groups have fully backed the police campaign.

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• KILLED IN ACTION : Rakesh Chauhan

REMEMBERING RAKESH

FAMILY PAY TRIBUTE TO SON KILLED IN AFGHANISTAN

"His life was the RAF..."

The father of Rakesh Chauhan reveals the pride he still feels in his son after his death in Afghanistan.

Kishor Chauhan revealed, “He always used to joke that ‘You don't know what I'm doing and how difficult my job is.’”

“But now we understand what he achieved, and how difficult it must have been for him.”

Flight lieutenant, 29-yearold Rakesh Chauhan, died in April when his helicopter came down in Kandahar province.

The family are coping with their loss and held a public funeral procession with full military honours through Leicester's Golden Mile. They also visited the Tower of London poppy field with families of WW1 veterans.

“Whenever he was here on Remembrance Sunday, he would always watch, and we always wondered why. I think he watched it because that was his

other family - the military - I think he was at one with them and honouring them on that day, I think he got it, he understood it,” he says.

Mr Chauhan believes some British Asians who are not linked to the military “may find it a little difficult to understand what this whole thing is about”, but he adds, “We do, we very much do.”

He also describes his son’s dedication to the RAF, “His life was the RAF, that was his other family [and] he was dedicated to that family. He would have gone a long way in the RAF and I think would have achieved a lot more.”

Rakesh Chauhan has been honoured posthumously by a number of British Asian organisations such as the Asian Achievers Awards and GG2 Pride of Britain Award.

Mr. Chauhan states his son’s passing revealed the

dangers of the military to the Asian community, “A lot of Asians say, 'Why did you let him do this?'

But it's what he wanted, he wanted this from a very young age, and it was something very different, an unusual career than generally what Asians have.

“I would have liked him to have [joined the family business], but he chose this path and I wouldn't stand in his way.”

The family have since been flooded with flowers and well wishes from the public. There is no doubt in Mr. Chauhan’s mind the difference his son made in the war torn country, “The nature of his job meant he didn't discuss the job itself, but he did discuss what the country was like and what the forces were doing there,” he says.

“The boys there were doing an extremely important job in keeping us and this country safe.”

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Due to client demands we have recently lauched our YOGA and Meditation Centre for group and private sessions.

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Initiative Helps to Highlight British Sikh Contribution

• NATIONAL LANGAR WEEK: Preparing Langar

A

new initiative has been launched to create awareness of the contribution the British Sikh faith has given to society by way of langar.

National Langar Week, which ran between 1 November and 7 November, was the first time in the UK that Sikhs held events nationwide sharing the Sikh way of life via the institution of langar. Langar is the name given to a 500 year old system that was built to eradicate segregation and promote equality, regardless of gender, socioeconomic status or faith

via the sharing the same food at the same level.

In Britain today, langar is being turned to as a source of basic need by the growing number of individuals and families who are living on the breadline. This year alone, food banks located all over the UK reported an unprecedented 163% increase in their use, with over 900,000 people using a food bank from 2013-2014.

A 2013 report showed Gurdwaras in the UK were struggling to meet the demand of the increase in

those requiring free meals.

Although there are a reported 423 food banks in the UK, these are not open every day from dawn until dusk unlike Gurdwaras nor can they provide hot meals.

Rupinder Kaur Virdee, cofounder of the Sikh Press Association explains, “Sikhs share the same British values as the rest of the country however as a community, the general British public just don’t know much about who we are. We set up National Langar Week in order to open the doors to our communities as well as our way of life and what better way in which to do this, than by the sharing of food. We have a vast number of youth led Sikh societies, some of the largest Sikh Gurdwaras in the UK and community groups who held special events up and down the country.”

Approximately 300 Gurdwaras in the UK serve free hot meals to all visitors, regardless of faith or ethnicity, for up to 14 hours a day, every single day of the year. Collated figures from within the Sikh community show approximately 400 tons of food (flour, lentils, rice, vegetables, salt, sugar and more) is used weekly, cooked and served by an estimated 10,000 of volunteers.

One of these is the Guru Nanak Gurdwara, located in Smethwick. Vice-President of the Gurdwara, Onkar Singh, stressed the importance of such events. "National Langar Week actually coincides with Gurpurab which is the birthday of Guru Nanak Ji and the perfect opportunity to show people what the Sikh religion is actually about.

In an era that was difficult he managed to bring people together, regardless of their faith, and sit them down and get them to eat. This is what we want to promote about the Sikh faith - that it is humble, selfless and giving."

• NATIONAL LANGAR WEEK: Serving Langar

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NOVEMBER 2014

LABOUR COUNCILLOR JOINS UKIP Former Labour councillor, 60-year-old Harjinder Singh Sehmi, has decided to join political party UKIP. An immigrant from India now holding British citizenship, Mr. Sehmi stated he wants to support a party that controls UK borders.

He said, “I agree with UKIP over border control."

The former Labour member believes immigration to the UK from other European countries is more of a concern than immigration from outside Europe, which is much more tightly regulated.

“If you have a three bedroom house you can’t have five or six guests because it’s too crowded – it is the same with the country."

Mr. Sehmi is aware his decision will not sit well with others including those he works alongside as a community volunteer.

Despite this, he is determined not to restrict himself to just being a member, but to put himself forward as a possible candidate for a Coventry City Council ward and for a parliamentary seat.

“The Labour Party is only for Labour, the Conservatives are only for rich people but UKIP is for the whole of Britain,” the councillor said.

Newly elected West Midlands UKIP MEP Jim Carver said, “People are attracted by our policies, such as raising tax allowances and taking everybody on the minimum wage out of income tax. Harjinder is one of many. A lot of our activists are coming from old Labour backgrounds.”

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Government Has Lost “Its Moral Compass”

WARSI BREAKS SILENCE Ex-Government Minister Explains Why She Had to Resign from Cabinet

“

I wasn’t naive enough to think we could resolve the matter but I did think we could be human enough to show compassion

“

10

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he tipping point for T Sayeeda Warsi came in the aftermath of one of the most notorious incidents of this year’s Gazan war: the killing of four Palestinian children by Israeli shells as they played football on the beach.

Warsi hoped that David Cameron w o u l d c o n d e m n the attack as beyond the pale. Instead, she heard only the dry language of diplomacy.

Two months late and she recalls that day, “My kids go out into the garden playing in their

shorts, looking pretty much like those kids on the beach. It was too close to home; it made it very real.

“The lack of movement even in our government’s language ...” Warsi’s voice trails off before she reconnects with the fury that made her resign after eight years in the shadow cabinet and on the frontbench, the first female Muslim cabinet minister.

“I wasn’t naive enough to think we could resolve that matter but I did think we could be human enough to show compassion.

Our inability to condemn that act in clear terms was a turning point.”

She is at pains to describe how she thinks the government has lost “its moral compass” over the issue.

Does she regret her resignation? “Not at all, I’m not a career politician; I fell into politics in many ways. I was somebody who worked across issues and was quite prepared to work across parties to get those issues resolved. For me, politics is an opportunity to make a difference. If it becomes about protecting your own interests, there are better ways of earning an income than being in frontline politics.”

“You are being asked to say things at the dispatch box that are fundamentally against what you believe. You could see I was uncomfortable; physically I looked uncomfortable at the dispatch box. I also felt like a cheat, putting down on record in history, in the form of Hansard, views I didn’t hold.

I had to be prepared to step away from that.” She insists her resignation was not a knee-jerk response.

On domestic issues such as extremism and the government’s approach to counter-radicalisation, Warsi refuses to be drawn. “My argument is that extremists are more of a threat to British Muslims than the community as whole; not only do those people cause us harm like everybody else – they’re indiscriminate – but also the backlash. It’s a double whammy. British Muslims have more incentive to rid society of extremists.”

Warsi was an antidote to assertions, the Tories are not close to minority groups. Her resignation was never likely to mean her voice would be silenced. Now she is back, it might even be louder than before.

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aldmore Traders Association has continued with their ‘Time for Change Project' aimed at restoring pride in Caldmore Village. The event follows from the previously successful ‘Reclaim Your Pavement’ event in which village traders and residents completed an organised clean-up of their premises while tending to the pavements outside. The next step in the mini-makeover initiative will see Caldmore Village traders and residents reclaim Caldmore Green from misuse anti-social behaviour.

The event had been organised to re-invigorate the local community and aims to re-establish Caldmore Village green as an amenity for everyone to use and enjoy. All those taking part celebrated their efforts and achievement with a communal lunch on Caldmore Green with music and entertainment for invited guests.

Ali Mahmood, Chair of Caldmore Traders Association said “We want traders, residents and visitors to be able to enjoy Caldmore Village Green as somewhere to meet and relax. We’re sending a

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Reclaim Your Green follows on from the successful re-opening of Caldmore Village’s Police Community Hub, following pressure from Caldmore Traders Association and the local community and comes in a month when Caldmore Village was able to announce that it is bucking the national trend for local shops to close – Caldmore Village boasts full occupancy and offers over 130 different trades and businesses.

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• HERO: Allen Hennings

OUR HERO Hundreds Turn up to Honour Alan Henning

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“

14

Alan was an individual who embodies more Islamic values than the entire ISIS put together. That’s what makes him our hero.

• MANCHESTER CENTRAL MOSQUE: Imam Asim Hussain

A memorial in honour of Alan Henning was held at the British Muslim Heritage Centre in Manchester, where people of all faiths came to pay tribute to the late British aid worker.

Hundreds of well wishers from different faiths attended the event including members of the Jewish, Christian and Islamic communities.

His widow, Barbara, and their children Adam and Lucy were in tears as they heard touching words from friends.

Dr Usman Chaudhary called Henning, “a hero who left the comforts of his own home for no other reason than to help the destitute and needy refugees of Syria. A hero who put the needs of others before his own.”

Majid Freeman, an aid worker from Leicester who accompanied Henning said, “Alan was a beautiful, genuine human being inside and out. He went to Syria to help at a time when the whole international community had abandoned them.”

“The international community leaders were paying mere lip service while Alan and many other aid workers were actually feeding these people, sheltering them, giving them aid,

taking nappies for the babies, ambulances and generators for the hospitals, sweets and toys for the children and so much more.”

The aid worker was affectionately nicknamed “Gadget” or “Gadge” because of his skill in fixing things. A video tribute was played showing Syrian children speaking of how much Henning helped them.

They were also shown holding placards with messages such as “we will never forget u” or “RIP Uncle Gadget”.

He was kidnapped

by ISIS militants after crossing into Syria on a humanitarian aid mission in December last year.

Other speakers at the event included MPs John Leech and Yasmin Qureshi and the Police and Crime Commissioner for Manchester, Tony Lloyd. Everyone wore yellow ribbons on their lapels, used as a symbol of hope and then sorrow after his kidnap and subsequent murder.

Asim Hussain, Imam at Manchester Central Mosque, said, “Alan was an individual who embodies more Islamic values than the entire Isis put together. That’s what makes him our hero.”

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"Went out for a curry with work colleagues the other night and upon someone's recommendation we came to Adil's. Upon entering we were immediately seated and brought poppadums’ and a selections of dips and pickles, all of which were very tasty. Our drinks order was then taken too. I found the service very efficient.

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as the restaurants along this stretch seemed to be closing up for the night. Adil’s was however happy to host us and we received a great meal and pleasant service which was a lot to ask considering we were such late diners and probably keeping the staff there a little longer than they would've liked to have been! The meal was very reasonably priced and the flavours were exquisite, we ordered a large naan and this was no trouble for the kitchen as bread easily big enough for the three of us was brought out to our delight. Adil's were exceptional hosts and extremely patient, if they were slightly vexed at our last minute dining they didn't make us aware of the fact."

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HELPS INDIAN

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she battles a fighter after injuries proves she's with life-changing Youngster ft her Birmingham crash which le horror back from

in Surrey.

Trust and a half on the a year The Children’s is fully forward Fast Labeebah and dad Syed later YOUSAF by her to recovery.

Shaheela, road

BY ZAKIA mum Maahirahan emoWith sister zakia@theasiantoday.com made youngster Trust older she’s and Birmingham proved the youngster the nursThe Children’s visiting side, BRAVE Islam has with visit to proudlyher walk tional to reunitewalk again.famLabeebah after the in Surreyhelped her a fighter who helped to take revealed es who nurses four-year-old Shaheelathe decision Children’s again. bubbly injuries after the to The The horrific August ily made back because car in visit stop talking from Labeebah suffered hit by a away for a Trust “wouldn’t she wasjust weeks The accito see – fightyoungster 2011 birthday. the nurses.” happy to see about was really asking Trust her third the youngsterdoctors with left was “She and dent at the The her life a slim chance tells weren’t a traueveryone, her ing for who giving suffering Shaheela those only after day,” at 2 that of survival injury. six months Today. ON PAGE brain spent Asian Hospital matic months CONTINUED Labeebah Children’s at seven Birmingham a further rehabilitation and then through going

her makes as she toddler Syed her fatherright, the smiling up to and looks Trust, LabeebahChildren's • BRAVE: at The walk brave her accident before

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TURN TO PAGE 16

Off-duty police officer Sujjad Ahmed commended for tackling

AN OFF-DUTY police officer has been commended for tackling into a a knifeman after stepping fight whilst driving home through Birmingham.

Sujjad Ahmed was on Old Snow Hill at around 4pm on 20 September at last year when he found himself the centre of a disorder involving six men. stepped in

A BIRMINGHAM councillor helping a grieving family come to terms with the death of their young daughter in India has told The

EXCLUSIVE

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knifeman

an tional courage and demonstrated with man who attacked him. act of bravery whilst off-duty over Instinctively PC Ahmed went no personal protective equipment him, would to the suspect in order to arrest or knowledge of when officers but became involved in a struggle. arrive to his assistance. a third At the height of the incident, “He instinctively involved himself proman became involved; threatening in a violent disorder in order to and both PC Ahmed and the suspect tect the life of the stab victim whom he was trying to arrest. innocent members of the public. at His colleagues were soon safety Sujjad ultimately put his own peoof the the scene and arrested two at risk to ensure the safety the ple, whilst paramedics treated community.” for wounded stab victim.

PC Ahmed was commended cerA pack of four knives was later his bravery at a special awards recovered from the 31-year-old emony in Birmingham. He received offender who was subsequenta Chief Constable’s Commendation; seven can ly jailed for two years and the highest honour the force months. bestow. who to Sergeant Noeleen Murrin, He said: “I acted instinctively award, and nominated the officer for his protect the lives of the victim excepsaid: “PC Ahmed showed

Asian Today the family will fight to the end for answers.

Gurkiren Kaur Loyal died in an Indian hospital in April during an Easter trip to the country with her mother Amrit and father Santokh.

The 8-year-old had been

admitted suffering dehydration, but died shortly after she was injected with an unknown substance.

A post mortem was carried out in India but despite the family being told that pieces of tissues from Gurkiren’s

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Actor Nitin Ganatra stated that he enjoys playing a darker side to his character, Masood Ahmed.

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is less governors individual row over in a few schools, In the escalating issue, the established; successfully rehave Horse the Trojan said leadersthe attempts of goversecretary has sisted nature and Education will need to to change the that all schools “British Val- nors of their school." forced to promote more a report, pub- ethos Ofsted were on 21 ues.” Seizing on more than in which it take action lished by Ofsted, fear based in Birmingto schools, all a "culture of stated that they were said existed in ham, after shift and intimidation “a decisive schools” have had moral relativism some Birmingham that “putaway from said The landMichael Gove of British in the classroom.” “atfound an a ting the promotion a mark report heart” was intimidation, revalues at the mosphere of considered ideology, “robust but narrow, faith-based of staff appointsponse.” use manipulation to the governinappropriate According ments and tolerance, reThe schools ment, “freedom, of law, belief of school funds.” found 10 of rule also spect for the inspectorate and social responneeded improveschools in personal Britthe respect for to the "Trojan sibility and ment relating whilst were the key allegations, ish institutions” should have horse" in special that principles five were placed the rest were measures and been in place. school govMichael Gove, In a letter to cleared. Several barred from Sir Michael being Ofsted, face of ernors head "The evidence holding office.

Wilshaw said: broad categoare: Park The five schools suggests three some schools, Golden Hillin View School, ries of school: Nansen Primary influence of the inappropriate and ock School, School and widespread School, Saltley governors is Science College in others, there in Specialist deep-rooted; Academy. weaknesses of and Oldknow are significant page 3 but the level Continued on governance, exerted by undue influence

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de novo? S INSPIRATION marriage WEDDING Arranged INSIDE Y PAGE 25 and their generation place in my parents’ were common by ears ago, marriages mean What people parents, arranged community. They range from those in the Asian a lot. forced marriage varies to those that are force arranged sense or that are ‘set-up’ one marriages in the physical Clearly no be it force blackmail. marriages, with emotional is correct for someone own psychologically would agree that against their me) (including into marrying someone to be forced Is it really choice. still arrange marriage? in this sense the ‘set-up’ But what about Is ‘arranged marriage’ 21st century this be the a terrible thing? word? Or could such a dirty our busy lives? break solution to point so I’ll lost by this may be totally Some of you you. it down for They are both and Jack. that they would friends Poppy invite them Imagine your have always thought decided to after the you single and if only they met! You yourself off, really hit it drinks and plan to excuse emergency”. both out for because of a “family Jay first 5 minutes the name situation with (a must for Asian the above mix Now replace some tea into the parents and you add with and Kajol, swap the friend get together) ‘set up’ situation. have a typical might be that their childrenthe boy and who think For meet up and Two families for marriage course lots of variations. first or compatible on the phone the There are of girl can talk. boy and girl can talk you get but hopefully example, the meet separately arrange to I mean by a ‘set up’. idea of what tradition and are people claim I am seeing I don’t just mean people looking At university, And mean people do it for themselves.or girlfriends. I themselves marriage partners having boyfriends for potential for set-ups for them. or even asking and me on Facebook spouse) to create their (potential were trying friend inboxed had Last year a know any “potentials” to get married. They a new society at uni there if I looking Recently, in jest but asked me they were isolated case.a wife’. This was said with a friend, for them because far from an to find and this is this comment only one ‘I am going own set up wasn’t the a friend jokedit too and when I discussed he certainly an event and of truth to idea’. And was an element said ‘it wasn’t a bad and in mind! he agreed at as a terrible with this thought your are often looked attending How is asking parents marriages’ ‘arranged exactly that! your ago when trying to do that whereas I find it funny generation, we are now different to 100 years for their child? any thing by my know any “potentials” they knew anyone suitable if and family friend if they are essentially on but we their friends would ask and moved that I have heard my be we have progressedfrom the times may even to think that as our parents. And in Bristol”-we We all like same thing about the “lack of potentials doing the complain Asian friends job! doing a worse

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CULTURE

Bobby Jasoos Dhawan Varun Johnson’s Tattoo Twin BOLLYWOOD MOVIE

OF THE MONTH

Alia

becomes of face

Garnier

Dwayne

IEW INTERV with BALAN

Its vibranis rich in culture. in to one Birmingham has made it cy and vivaciousness cities in the World. of the most recognisable case if things will not be the However, this city is becomgrow that the were carry on fears The claims most ing more "ghettoised." of Birmingham’s has made by one Jasper Carrot the put prolific celebrities. minorities to of their called on ethnic country ahead late. city and the before it is too in community, who was born the on The comedian, and still lives Acocks Green city, explained how he the in the outskirts of distinctive change could see a up in. where all city he grew is it a place "No longer where the on, but one is an examminorities get schools row a cultural Trojan Horse there has been ple of how

years shift." said, “Ten The 69-year-old racial problems in have commuago we didn’t because different Birmingham got on." nities have always Birmingham harmony in I am "The racial been remarkable. which now, has always that change starting to see more is very sad." are becoming “Communities themselves."

Muslim enclosed in going into “Muslims are areas; Sikhs into Hindu into areas; Hindus and Somalians into Sikh areas Somali areas." careful, the city might “If we are not That’s the great start to get ghettoised. issue danger.” this is a thorny " I believe that bud." nipped in the to prevent that must be work so hard “We have to only good relationships that, and have he said. hesitanin communities,” you have the they are “Otherwise, where worrying cy of people they are." going, and who Horse thing has been “The Trojan to the fore has never come around, but page 2 Continued on until recently."

B21 Local Boys

Back With A Bang

MOVIESS REVIEW 42 Page

VIDYA

Also inside:

Dosanjh Diljit PUNJAB 1984 - Interview

time to in your name it’s If you’ve got SINGH proud because... as sing it loud and going to be remembered ...2014 is definitely the summer of ‘SINGH’.

AWARDS 2013 AT THE ASIAN MEDIA 'BEST LOCAL NEWSPAPER' WINNERS OF THE

" I believe that this is a thorny issue that must the be nipped in bud."

Comedian Jasper Carrot

Its vibrancy and rich in culture.

Birmingham is to one of the most has made it in this will not vivaciousness in the World. However, the city recognisable cities carry on as fears grow that things be the case if "ghettoised." is becoming more

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• HERO COP: Sujjad Ahmed tackled Birmingham last year innocent members of the public whilst also detaining the offender. My training and experience helped

a knifeman whilst off-duty in

me in what was a very serious incident and I would not hesitate to do the same again.”

organs would be taken for analysis the family were devastated to discover on their return to the UK that all of the youngsters organs had

been removed.

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THE ASIAN TODAY SPECIAL FEATURE

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graffitti.

for BEST

at The Asian

one HIS IMMEDIATELY' found the WAS knew she had for new ROLEMira Nair 'THEDirector auditioned

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of family grievingpensioner THE as he a Birmingham to deathfrom evening are stabbed home they returnedhave said to to understand prayers want would still trying anybody why him. pensioner hurt was Heath Small Saleem in the times Mohammed three home stabbed he walked just in as back local MosqueApril 29 a on from 10.30pm described have attack”. before police vicious tears, what “swift, back the Nazia as a Fighting daughteras a Mr Saleem’s her father described man.” for us loved difficult that “well very “It is the brutalitydad to our said. to accept she 2 has happened ON PAGE and grandfather,”

plea for Bone Marrow donor

NEWSPAPER OR MAGAZINE THE ASIAN TODAY LOCAL NEWSPAPER

FUNDAMENTALIST

RIZ AHMED

FOR STEPS MIRACLELABEEBAH BRAVE

FOOTBALLER

MURDEREDWAS PENSIONER 'WELL LOVED'

The PC immediately Midlands was of the Outside for Guarav a match Islamic after he saw a topless man covered was set means itcentre Kiran is not newsanbecause in the in blood having been stabbed leukaemia. of survival in London. really difficult bestalight chance form of childhood that his from chest.

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2 the bone ON PAGE searching match.

CONTINUED an unrelated out that

BY ZAKIA YOUSAF try to find said: “Finding Dad Sunny zakia@theasiantoday.com

urgently ill son.

Guarav Bains before Two-year-old marrow transplant needs a bone was diagChristmas. from Tipton, The youngster, disorder Monosomy an blood to develop nosed with and is likely 7 in June

MONTHLY

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NEW BOLLYWOOD

ALMOST half of Britain's Mosques have been subjected to attacks since 9/11, new research shows.

The figures come amidst an alarming rise in attacks since the murder of Lee Rigby in Woolwich Recent attacks in the Midlands include an explosive device left outside Aisha Mosque in Walsall, swastikas sprayed on Redditch Central Mosque (pictured above) and a Sandwell Mosque daubed in

YOUSAF

BY ZAKIA

zakia@theasiantoday.com in a desfamily are A BIRMINGHAM Marrow donor for a Bone their critically perate search the life of to help save

No.174

MONTHLY

YOUR FREE

FLOURISHING IN ALL AREAS

Birmingham father in desperate

SPORT

To make the to harm. MOMENT driver MAGICAL Hussain - a AS HE believable, sent FOR MO WORLD - even Sparkbrook from GRABS IN MOSCOW of himself messages picture 26 a bag TITLES PAGEwith lying on a bed and his wrists over his head bound. apparently 2 ON PAGE CONTINUED

- 23

PAGE

TURN TO PAGE 28 GAME HALF- OF REPORT: OF THE BEAUTIFUL

HELP SAVE MYHONOURED SON'S LIFE

SPORT: ASIAN FOOTBALL

A BIRMINGHAMin IGCSE blackmailing for results Chemistry, been jailed he an A*by claiming his family - Physics, Education, gained and was Biology,kidnapped English inspection. Haroon had beenReligious Maths, men threatenby English, In total in BTEC, held being History, whilst A’s Studies and Maths, kill him. the results ing to Studies.

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BY ZAKIA said has proved he gained 3 Finance.

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THE ASIAN TODAY TURN TO PAGE 18 TODAY WOULD INTERVIEW SHOWBIZ LIKE TO WISH THE ASIAN TODAY RAMADAN

FILM 'PLANES'

- TURN TO

gaining Class after Top of the and 2 AS Level A's!

Haroon Shah City Teen 9 A*'s, 3 A's at GCSE mammoth

man has

Prosecution been have Crown TWO employees over £1m Serviceafter paying firm. taxi Lisa jailed bogus manager to a Financefrom Titford admin and Burrows, Oldbury Road, Tahir Mahmood Avenue,senofficer each Eastbourne were in prison from years Court Birmingham, to six Crown fraud to tenced guilty at an at Birmingham pleading after of position in March.

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Campaign for answers into death of Birmingham youngster Gurkiren Kaur

B

Parliament Votes to Recognise Palestine The Palestinians want an independent state in the West Bank and Gaza, with its capital in East Jerusalem.

ritish lawmakers have voted to recognise Palestine as a state, a move that will not alter government policy, but carries symbolic value as Palestinians pursue international recognition.

Britain does not classify Palestine as a state, but says it could do so at any time if it believed it would help promote peace between the Palestinians and Israel.

Prime Minister David Cameron abstained from the vote, which was called by an opposition lawmaker, and Cameron's spokesman earlier said foreign policy would not be affected whatever the outcome.

The final motion, which passed by 274 votes to 12 stated, "That this House believes that the Government should recognise the state of Palestine alongside the state of Israel as a contribution to securing a negotiated two-state solution."

Lawmakers who backed the motion said it would increase pressure on Israeli and Palestinian authorities to revive the stalled peace process.

"Its purpose is very simple, based upon the belief that the recognition of a state of Palestine, alongside a

A 27-year-old man has been accused of fraud after approving the transfer of money to a fraudster.

Umar Mughal is now on trial for by abuse of position.

The bank manager failed to confirm the identity of the client who came into the bank posing as a wealthy 91-year-old-man.

Julia Payne, financial investigator, informed the Old Bailey that Mughal failed to verify the criminal’s signature.

Mughal reportedly accessed five different accounts during his session with the client and transferred all the money into one account.

Jurors were told that £70,000 was taken from the first account, £10,325 from the second, £73,300 from the third, £23,100 from the forth and £76,600 from the final account.

A private banking manager noticed the questionable activity the next day and raised the alarm.

After speaking to the defendant and launching an investigation at the bank, Mughal admitted he ‘made a mistake’.

state of Israel will add to the pressure for a negotiated two-state solution and may bring that prospect a little closer to fruition," said Jack Straw, who served as foreign minister between 2001 and 2006.

Only 286 of 650 lawmakers voted, with many outside the government choosing to abstain. The ballot is non-binding and will not force Britain, once the colonial ruler of Palestine, to change its foreign policy.

The government said progress towards a two-state solution was urgent, and recognition of Palestine as a state should be carefully timed to help that outcome.

The Palestinians want an independent state in the West Bank and Gaza, with its capital in East Jerusalem.

Palestinians have long resented Britain's role in the region, arguing its three-decade rule over Palestine and subsequent withdrawal in 1948 allowed the creation of an Israeli state.

U.S.-backed peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians collapsed earlier this year and there is no sign they might be revived any time some.

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ASIAN ENTERTAINMENT NO.1 FOR

that died doing patriotic solider an been paid to what he loved.Leicester and payweek's Tributes have Kishor Based in named in last his father, RAF hero ing tribute, spoke proudly about crash in Afghanistan.

Flight helicopter born been my Chauhan, 61, an air force has Birmingham his son.“The since he was 11. He Rakesh Chauhan, as Lieutenant named School son’s passion officer, was Edward High intelligence personnel part was at King five British and he was one of the the Lynx helicopin Birmingham cadets since his air that died whentravelling in came in the of the RAF He excelled ter they were province. first year there. the highest award friends, down in Kandahar won final Rak to his cadets and felyear - in his Known as died alongside - cadet of the the young pilot Corps non-comyear."

St Andrew’s low Intelligence Lance Corporal he “He even picked Scotland, where missioned officerCaptain Thomas Masters University in Oliver Thomas, Officer Class 2 year Scottish took a four Relations, Clarke, Warrant and Corporal RAF degree in International Air it was near Spencer Faulkner from the Army partly because James Walters page 2 Leuchars.” family Continued on Corps.

Chauhan's and Lieutenant as a dedicated him described

CITIZEN KHAN DUO MAYA SONDHI AND BHAVNA

ISSUE No.179 OCTOBER 2013

2013 SEPTEMBER

MONTHLY

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MAY 2014

DESI SS

David Cameron

Named as One Rakesh Chauhan Pilots Killed of Five British

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"This latest incident all brings home to us our once again how armed forces continue on the to put their lives of line to help the people Afghanistan."

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DID YOU KNOW? • • •

• •

4210 children were adopted in England this year The average age of children adopted in England is 3 years and 8 months Employment rights are protected for adopters whilst they are on adoption leave which includes pay rises and accrue holiday Adoption leave was first introduced in the UK in 2003 The maximum amount of adoption leave in the UK is 52 weeks

STATISTICS • • • • •

78% (53,440) of children looked after were white 9% (6,140) were of mixed racial background 4% (2,540) were Asian or Asian British 7% (4,620) were Black or Black British 2% (1,530) were from other ethnic groups

A PLACE CALLED

HOME WORRYING DECLINE OF ETHNIC MINORITY ADOPTERS AND THE IMPACT ON CHILDREN

A

s the New Year beckons, children all over the United Kingdom are still looking for a home. The 3rd of November marks the start of National Adoption Week, and with latest figures showing the dismal situation, we look at how dire the situation really is.

Worrying statistics released by leading adoption charity, Adoption UK show that only 2% of Ethnic Minority children had been adopted, compared to 84% of their white counterparts.

These

statistics are worrying as they show white children are more likely to be adopted than Asian or Black children, along with this they also show the rapid decrease on the number of overall children being adopted fell by 5%.

Education Secretary, Nicky Morgan, outlined plans to change the current policies which urged Social Service authorities to place children with prospective parents as soon as possible, regardless of their ethnicity. The current guiding principle allows Social Service authorities to be more flexible when choosing individuals that match their ethnic backgrounds.

When you change a child’s life by adopting, we’ll help you deal with the changes in yours.

Meet our team and adopters at our information event at The Copthorne Hotel Merry Hill DY5 1UR Thursday 6 November 2014 7pm to 9pm Monday 10 November 2014 12pm to 2pm

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• ETHNIC MINORITY ADOPTION: Current system is politically correct

Announcing the plans, Mr Gove alongside Children’s Minister Edward Timpson, called the current system “politically correct.”

“Thousands of children are currently in the care system waiting to be adopted. Every day they wait is a day they’re denied the loving home all children deserve. But politically correct attitudes and ridiculous bureaucracy keep many of those children waiting far too long. Edicts

which say children have to be adopted by families with the same ethnic background and which prevent other families adopting because they don’t fit left- wing prescriptions are denying children the love they need.

As a result children from ethnic minority backgrounds languish in care for longer than other kids and are denied the opportunities they deserve. This misguided nonsense punishes those who

Your local ‘outstanding’ adoption agency Successfully placing children with people like you www.adoption-focus.org.uk info@adoption-focus.org.uk Tel: 0845 519 0539 | Address: Adoption Focus, TS3 Pinewood Business Park, Coleshill Road, Marston Green, B37 7HG Adoption Focus is the registered adoption agency of Family Society, a company limited by guarantee. Registered in England & Wales no: 6869556; Registered Charity No: 1129095.

Registered Office: Kemp House, 152 City Road, London EC1V 2NX

14/10/2014 10:48

most need our help and that is why this government is sweeping it away”.

Charity organisations and adoption agencies have reacted positively to the news, with a distinct understanding and acceptance that the changes planned will have a positive effect on the lives on thousands of children currently in the adoption system. A statement from the British Association of Adoption and Fostering (BAAF) Chief Executive, David Holmes said the new plans would “break down barriers in the current system.

“We welcome the Government’s firm commitment to adoption and in particular the publication of this timely new guidance, which we contributed to extensively.

It is important to recognise that there is much good practice already in adoption although this is not always uniformly applied. The challenge is to ensure that every agency builds on best practice to ensure that no child is deprived of a loving adoptive home.

Adoption provides very clear benefits to children in very vulnerable circumstances – we must all ensure that whenever a child needs adoption that that plan is realised without delay.”

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is a great part of our food heritage along with fish and chips and pork pies.

“Let’s hope the popular Birmingham Balti recipe follows in the footsteps of our other iconic foods like the Cornish pasty and Fenland celery.

“It would be a wonderful boost for this great city’s world famous Balti Triangle.

“Legally protecting food names creates new jobs and attracts more tourists to the area.

“We hope other producers are encouraged to do the same and unlock the full potential that their original recipes can bring.”

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The campaign is headed by Birmingham’s renowned Balti lover Andy Munro on behalf of the Birmingham Balti Restaurant Association.

The government’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) claims Protected Food Names elevates the food and drink industry which is the country’s largest manufacturing sector.

DEFRA claims the entire food chain contributes £97 billion a year to the UK economy and employs one in eight people.

Environment Secretary Elizabeth Truss said: “Curry

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BIRMINGHAM BALTI’S EUROPEAN STATUS ood enthusiasts are pushing the popular dish towards recognised European status amongst famous names such as Champagne or Parma Ham. Stilton cheese, Melton Mowbray pork pies and the Cornish pasty have already achieved this prestige. If the Balti joins these ranks it will have to be globally referred to as the Birmingham Balti by anyone using the cooking method.

The famous cuisine is a British blend of Kashmiri Pakistani recipes created in the 1970s by Birmingham’s Mirpuri community. The dish stands out from the rest as people must cook meat off the bone rather than on, use vegetable oil instead of ghee and cook dry spices alongside fresh garlic and ginger.

It is cooked in the “Balti”, a thinly dense steel dish for fast cooking over a gas fire, then presented in the dish to be eaten with naan bread or

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We offer complete package for your event, ranging from planning services, stages DJ’s, waiters and quality catering with over 30 years experience.

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THE SIKH AWARDS 2014 The fifth annual The Sikh Awards took place at the Plaza

Hotel Westminster Bridge

Recognise, honour and celebrate the enormous achievements of the successful, hard-working and ambitious Sikh community

• SIKH BUSINESSMAN OF THE YEAR WINNER: Malvinder Singh

The Sikh Awards Founder, Navdeep Singh Bansal

T

he fifth annual The Sikh Awards took place at the Plaza Hotel Westminster Bridge on Saturday 18th. The prestigious event saw 750 guests in attendance from elite international

dignitaries to public figures, community heroes, sports stars and celebrities. The Asian Today were also in attendance at the lavish awards show.

The event was hosted

by Kulveer Ranger, the

Each year, The Sikh Awards takes a theme as its central focus for the evening's celebrations and this year the event recognized and honoured the sizeable battlefield contribution made by Sikh soldiers during the Great War, which this year celebrates its 100th anniversary. Although the Sikh community only makes up two per cent of the British Indian population, they formed 20 per cent of the British Indian Army, which saw 130,000 active Sikh soldiers.

The Sikh Awards was founded by entrepreneur Navdeep Singh Bansal, who following the event commented: 'We were delighted that The Sikh Awards have been such a success, not only last evening but also looking back five years since its inception.'

'Our purpose with the awards continues to be

Mayor of London's Director of Environment and Digital London and its former Director of Transport Policy, and Kiss FM's DJ Neev. The Sikh Awards recognised the pivotal contributions made by the Sikh community across a variety of fields, from business, charity, education, entertainment, professional services, seva (selfless service), and sport, with winners coming from Asia, USA, Canada, Europe and Africa.

The winners of the night included: Sikh Helpline - Birmingham, who won the Sikh in Charity Award, Swaran Singh Gharial - Kenya won the Sikh in Seva Award.

Gursharan Kaur – Canada, won the Sikh in Education Award and Amrit Singh Uppal - Singapore won the Sikh in Profession Award and Sukhi Ghuman - Nottingham won the Sikh Entrepreneur Award.

• LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNER: MP Tarlochan Singh

to recognize, honour and celebrate the enormous achievements of the successful, hard-working and ambitious Sikh community as they tirelessly contribute

to the social, cultural, and economic fabric of societies globally, as well as making a difference to people's lives through philanthropy.'

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111 youngsters were at risk of child sexual exploitation in Birmingham

82% of victims aged 14-16 years old were white irmingham is the latest city to become embroiled in child grooming crimes mirroring cases of those in Rotherham, Rochdale and Derbyshire. A damning police report has revealed that 75% of on-street grooming gangs in the West Midlands are of an Asian background, whilst 82% of victims aged 14-16 years old were white.

Shocking facts reveals councils and social services have inadequately helped vulnerable victims. Some groomers were never prosecuted whilst victims were known to be locked in guarded accommodation for their own protection. The statistics were part of a confidential report from West Midlands Police.

Children’s Society, who aid disadvantaged children in the UK, previously warned that vulnerable children were being taken to hotels around the West Midlands, supplied with drugs and alcohol before being abused.

Another report stated that 111 youngsters were at risk of child sexual exploitation in Birmingham last year, with the youngest just 11-years-old and almost half of them under the age of 15.

The grim results were revealed by Birmingham Safeguarding Children Board (BSCB) in the Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) Prevention and Intervention Strategy published in September 2013.

It said, “The partnership arrangements in Birmingham are currently failing to protect our children from child sexual exploitation. Perhaps the clearest indicator of this is reflected in that at the time of writing this strategy, there are three young people, the victims

of child sexual exploitation, who are subject to a Secure Accommodation Order whilst the perpetrators of these horrific crimes remain at liberty and continue to target other children.

The absence of the prosecutions of these offenders is startling.”

“Partner inaction may indicate that there is sometimes a reluctance to use the statutory powers available to them, and this is unacceptable.”

The ethnicity of the assailants is a key issue where, similar to previous cases, Asian gangs are being convicted of abusing girls. In areas such as Oxford, Rochdale and Rotherham, an estimated 1,400 children were abused over 16 years after failings of public organisations.

A report by Sandwell Safeguarding Children Board (SSCB) last year built on an official West Midlands Police report containing an in depth intelligence-based report on Child Sexual Exploitation. It revealed how Asian gangs were targeting white girls with on-street grooming.

“

“

B

The need to target, prosecute and disrupt those sexual predators who are responsible for the grooming and exploitation of children and young people is paramount.

The report outlined that 82 per cent of victims were white girls aged between 14 and 16, with 80 per cent having been reported as missing more than once, and 38 per cent having been in care. Missing children were said to be more vulnerable to abuse as revealed in these statistics.

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ENGLISH CURRY AWARDS 2014 "Congratulations to all our winners and finalists, and I hope to see you next year!"

THE winners of the 4th annual English Curry Awards were announced at a swanky affair at the AJ Bell Stadium, Manchester on Monday October 13.

Over 10,000 nominations came in from all across England and the race to be crowned at this year’s awards ceremony was an extremely tight contest.

“To be amongst such passionate people who love what they do is truly inspiring. The English Curry Awards aims to recognise that dedication.” commented Yasmin Mahmood, Operations Director of event organisers Oceanic Consulting.

“It was a fantastic evening and I would like to thank everyone for attending and a big thank you to

TIPU SULTAN AMONGST WINNERS

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Best Marketing Campaign Winner: Shimla Spice (Shipley)

• CURRY QUEEN: Dipna Anand

Best Restaurant Design Winner: Tipu Sultan (Birmingham)

Maitre D’ of the Year Winner: Mohammed Khalid (Sheesh Mahal, Banbury)

Curry King or Queen 2014 Winner: Dipna Anand (Brilliant Restaurant, Southall)

Lifetime Achievement Award Winner: Ahmed S Choudhury (Chairman of Channel S and owner of Rajpoot Restaurant)

• BEST OF MANCHESTER: Akbar's

New Restaurant of the Year Winner: Khanage Indian Restaurant (London) Caterer the Year Winner: Greenleaf Service (Southall)

Best of Manchester Winner: Akbar’s • BEST RESTAURANT DESIGN: Tipu Sultan

our sponsors. Congratulations to all our winner and finalists, and I hope to see you next year!”

The glam event was hosted by Sunny and Shay Grewal, the couple from the Bafta nominated Channel 4’s ‘The

Family’, who currently present a show on BBC Radio London 94.9fm.

As well as recognising the curry industry in all its facets, the event also raised just over £1500 for the official charity partners The Well Foundation.

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“I feel disappointed and angry with my own community for not donating.”

LEGAL COLUMN

PENSIONS - THE WITCHES BREW...

On 29 September 2014, the Chancellor announced reforms to the taxation of benefits paid from money purchase pension schemes on the death of a member from April 2015.

These together with other proposals increasing pension flexibility have placed issues of inheritance planning very much in the public eye.

Given the increasing number of over 55s divorcing, the treatment of pensions on divorce is an increasingly topical matter.

For those who have planned and provided for their retirement, the prospect of losing pension can cause a great deal of anxiety.

However, with careful advice and understanding, a favourable solution can most often be found.

On divorce, the family court has wide discretion when determining how to deal with pensions. Its preferred options tend to be to offset the value of pension against capital (for example, with one party taking a reduced share in the matrimonial property in order to keep their pension) or to “share” the pension.

Since 2000 the court has been able to make pension sharing orders.

In its simplest form a pension sharing order involves the court taking a percentage of one party’s pension and transferring it to the other for them to invest in their own name. In that way each party can plan for their own future, without being tied to or reliant upon the other.

In long marriages, the court often uses a pension share to equalise the capital value of a couple’s pension pot or to equalise the income they will each receive in retirement.

Whichever approach is taken, apart from in the most straightforward of cases, expert actuarial advice will be needed.

That advice should not only take into account the legalities but should also be practical and based in commercial reality. The assumptions used by the expert will often be crucial. By way

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BECAUSE I'M ASIAN

• BONE MARROW: Aneesa Hussain only survived because of poorly matched marrow from her father Manzoor.

• LEGAL- Sarah Balfour

of example, up until very recently actuarial reports have tended to use the assumption that the person receiving the pension share will purchase an annuity. In certain cases that may still be appropriate. However, given recently proposals as to the availability of income drawdown and Inheritance Tax, the assumption may not always stand up. A good legal advisor will not shy away from challenging assumptions where necessary.

The courts have issued clear guidance that theoretical pension calculations must be seen in a commercial and practical context.

Another issue often raised is how to deal with pension assets that one party has built up prior to the marriage. Second and third marriages are increasingly common and it is not unusual for a couple to come into a relationship with a significant pension pot.

Again, the input of expert advice can be crucial.

By calculating which part of a pension was accrued during the relationship a fairer outcome can be achieved.

It is often possible for a couple to take mutually beneficial steps when negotiating how best to deal with their pensions.

This can work particularly well if they choose to deal with matter outside the court arena (for example by going down the mediated or collaborative routes of divorce). But it can also work in contested cases where the court does become involved. Once the court has made a decision on how pensions are to be divided there is nothing to stop a couple from taking joint can take advice how best to achieve that split, minimising cost and potential tax.

If you have any queries relating to the treatment of pensions on divorce please ring Sarah Balfour at our Birmingham Family Team at Irwin Mitchell on 0121 214 5451.

Aneesa Hussain speaks out over lack of transplants in ethnic minorities.

L

ike most girls her age, Aneesa Hussain was living a normal life with hopes for a bright future.

At the age of 17 her life was turned upside down when she was diagnosed with ‘aplastic anaemia’, a rare and seriously fatal bone marrow disease.

Aneesa and her family frantically began looking for a bone marrow transplant, her only hope for recovery, but after a 10 month global

search no matches were found. Due to Hussain’s Pakistani ethnicity the only suitable transplant could be from someone of the same background, sadly it has been revealed that very few ethnic minority transplants are available.

“I feel disappointed and angry with my own community for not donating,” Aneesa said, whose grandparents came to Britain from Pakistan

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in their youth. “Helping to save someone’s life should be seen as a positive thing to do, regardless of what ethnicity you are.”

Two years before this predicament, Aneesa had many goals after finishing school. After school she would take out a gap year travelling in Japan, then graduate from university and begin a career in marketing.

After being diagnosed she was immediately put onto the organ donor list.

“My doctor warned me there was a shortage of ethnic minority donors,” she says.

“I was surprised. I naively assumed everybody who needed a donor would find one.”

Many factors come into why statistics for ethnic minorities are so low, one of them being religion, “There are certain aspects of the Islamic faith – such as the emphasis put on the respect of the dead and not defacing the body – that suggest you shouldn’t donate,” explains Dr Sharif.

He even states that although bone marrow transplants are relatively simple procedures and don’t require the death of the donor, there is still reluctance to donate.

“There are also language barriers and cultural issues, along with an element of distrust towards the NHS. The NHS Blood and Transplant (NBTA) is working hard to educate and engage with these communities at grassroot level.”

Aneesa was in and out of hospital for regular platelet transfusions and checkups, she recalls a white patient staying in her hospital ward who had 10 donors available, “I was happy for her but it made the fact that I couldn’t find one donor in the whole world even harder to accept.”

As searches turned up no results and with time wasting, doctors were forced to use Aneesa's father, Manzoor, as a donor. There were risks as his bone marrow was only a 60% match to his daughter so it could possibly be rejected.

Fortunately the operation was a success and after two years of fighting she returned to school. Her match is not ideal however and her health is still at risk.

The experience has spurred Aneesa to become a representative of a new Department of Health initiative designed to raise awareness of organ donation among Muslims of Pakistani origin.

“My family aren’t very religious but, in any case, surely the basis of all religions is to help others?” she asks.

“Bone marrow donation is such an easy, painless procedure and a way to give someone their life back.”

WOMAN CAUGHT SMUGGLING DRUGS A 42-yearold woman f r o m Birmingham has been arrested and charged with possession of drugs after £320,000 worth of heroin was found in her baggage at Heathrow airport.

Raheela Ayub had arrived from Pakistan when eight kilos of Class A drugs were

confiscated by Border Force officers at the airport’s Terminal 4.

Ayub was questioned by National Crime Agency’s Border Policing Command and charged with attempting to import drugs.

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WHO IS MALALA YOUSAFZAI? The Asian Today analyses the life of the girl who got shot for standing BY: HUSNA ANJUM up for education.

Inspirational, courageous, heroic, advocate.

Here are written accolades of adoration showered upon Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani teenager campaigning for the education and empowerment of girls.

Since her rise to fame in 2012 Malala has become the symbol for one of the world’s most imperative goals: Education.

But who would apply these less savoury terms to the young champion?

Traitor, puppet, blasphemer, pawn.

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With adulation comes hostility as Yousafzai has attracted scorn as well as support. Critics from both the Eastern and Western hemispheres have disliked and outright condemned the young fighter’s actions, making Yousafzai both an exemplary and controversial figure on the frontlines of culture, politics and religion.

But how much of it is true? Taking away the media hype and speculation we ask the same question the Taliban militant asked before fatally shooting the girl.

Who is Malala?

Firstly it must be acknowledged that any famous figure either dead or alive will endure both love and hate from the public. Once you step onto a public stage you are dissected and scrutinised by a ruthless audience of journalists, bloggers, analysts, politicians and of course, the general public. So perhaps Malala is fair game to this.

Malala’s biggest denunciation is her perceived loyalty to the much maligned West. Many have labelled her a CIA operative, traitor of the West and even claim her shooting was all part of a conspiracy. This may be part of a pattern with Pakistan and its history of achievers.

The first Muslim to win a Nobel Prize for Physics was Pakistan born Abdul Salam

who pioneered ground breaking work in particle theory. However Salam was born into the Muslim minority group of Ahmedi’s who were heavily discriminated against. After Salam’s death the inscription on his gravestone, “First Muslim Nobel Laureate”, was erased. It seems that in both cases the winners of international acclaim are judged based on who they are connected to rather than what they have fought so hard to achieve.

We then come to the cultural and religious debate Malala has sparked where critics argue that Western powers are using her story as an opportunity to introduce more secular system in Pakistan.

Leading women’s rights campaigner Humaira Awais Shahid argues as much, in her memoir, Devotion and Defiance, Shahid argues that Pakistani women do want more education, independence and freedom from violence but that does not mean rejecting the positive influence their religion has had in their lives.

Despite these claims, Malala proudly wears her headscarf in public and has stated she believes Muslim women’s lives can be improved within a religious environment. Even before addressing the UN in her 2013 speech she began with “In the name of God, the most beneficent, the most merciful”.

However what about the other Malalas around the world who are still fighting for their education and their lives yet receive no publicity? Now this is not necessarily Malala’s fault but it does raise a valid point about the fight for her goal and that is simply this.

The need to separate the individual from the fame.

The young advocate launched the ‘Malala Fund’ which aims to educate disadvantaged children around the world, it is an effective start, however she needs more time until she can make a significant difference. We need to separate Malala from the hype and adulation and refocus our efforts on the girls and boys around the world who are still in need of our help.

Maybe the real question is what are we doing about the fight for education?

For more information on the Malala fund and how you can donate, visit www. malala.org

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• CONVICTED: Haroon Ashraf

A

man has been convicted for stabbing his pregnant wife following a violent row.

Haroon Ashraf stabbed his wife Neelam in their home in Bordesley Green after she hid his stash of cannabis.

It was revealed that a separate assault occurred days before where he sprayed his wife’s face with aftershave, throttled her and pulled her hair.

Neelam reportedly hid Ashraf’s drugs in the kitchen cupboard so their son would

not find them. He assaulted her when she refused to reveal the whereabouts of the drugs, a few days later when she still failed to tell him, Ashraf attacked her with a Stanley knife.

Neelam fled their home and contacted police via her neighbour’s telephone.

Ashraf was arrested shortly afterwards.

His Honour Judge Murray Creed called the 24-year-old defendant a “selfish man” who was more concerned with his drugs than his

family.

“Your wife, having heard her give evidence, acted in a compassionate and commendable way as far as you are concerned.

“She did not want you taking drugs in her presence or the presence of your son.

“You lost self control and lunged at her, she put her arm up to protect herself from the knife.

“You would have hit her in the face if she had not put her arm up.”

During the trial Neelam

You lost self control and lunged at her, she put her arm up to protect herself from the knife.

“

BORDESLEY GREEN HUSBAND STABS WIFE

SANA ALI KILLER

confessed she didn’t think her husband was capable of carrying out such an attack.

His defence team argued that Ashraf was incredibly remorseful after the attack and tried to treat his wife’s wounds. It was even claimed the defendant had not taken cannabis since the incident.

The judge however sentenced Ashraf to five years in jail for wounding and three months, to be served concurrently, for assault by beating.

• JAILED: Harmohinder Sanghera

A woman has started a bid to clear her name after being convicted of murdering her lover’s pregnant wife.

In 2007, Harmohinder Sanghera stabbed 17-yearold Sana Ali, who was 11 weeks pregnant, to death.

Sanghera, who was having a two-year affair with Ali’s husband, carried out the horrific attack after discovering his marriage and child on the way.

The defendant was jailed for life with no possibility of parole for 14 years.

However, she has now reportedly applied to the

THE CORPORATE VOICE WHAT MAKES US SOUND ‘ASIAN’

T

here are certain things that people say that stick with you. One day, when I was at school, a teacher told me that if he were to phone me, he wouldn’t have thought I was Asian.

His words stuck with me.

What was it that would make me ‘sound Asian’, even though I was born in the UK? I was intrigued. What interested me wasn’t the question of my ethnicity, it was the impact of my voice – the only tool available when you’re speaking to someone on the phone. I began to wonder how my voice was affecting the way I was judged, perceived or trusted. At the same time, what were the unconscious assumptions that I was making when hearing others speak? We often focus on what we can physically see in front of us when we first meet people – the way they look or dress, their eye contact and their body language. But when they begin to speak, how does this confirm or alter that initial impression?

I have spent the last 13 months researching the impact voice has on corporate performance. I have spoken to more than 100 senior

executives to understand whether the voice makes any difference to business decisions, who is hired or promoted, and sales – and, if so, how? I haven’t finished my research yet, but it is already clear that the voice is seriously undervalued. It has a significant bearing on your personal presence, building contacts, and – above all chances of success.

Much of the focus of the research so far has been how your voice affects your employability. In an interview, how important is the way you say things compared to the suit you wear, how punctual you are, and how strong your handshake is? Interviewees are often advised to mirror their interviewer’s body language. I would add that it is critical to match and mirror through voice too, in order to demonstrate your attentiveness, adaptability and to establish a mutual level of comfort.

Numerous studies have established strong links between visual attractiveness and succeeding in the workplace. I don’t dispute their relevance - but I also don’t believe they tell the

whole story. One study found that a 1 per cent decrease in the pitch of a CEO’s voice can lead to $30 million more in assets for the company.

Regardless of whether or not you are considered “good

BY SEEMA AGGARWAL

looking”, it is important to display confidence and selfassurance, which can come through most strongly in your voice.

A good place to start in making a self-assessment

is to listen to yourself on playback. It often provokes surprise and embarrassment, but it is a fascinating insight in to what other people hear or feel when you speak to them. Whenever I have done this exercise with people, they have been shocked to discover some of their irritating habits; repeating certain words, speaking too fast, or conveying an emotion different to the one they had intended through their tone.

Your voice has similar power in your personal life too. From attraction to parenting, what you say and how you say it can make the difference between success and failure. From my research so far, it’s clear that we need to move away from simply what ‘looks’ or ‘sounds’ good to embrace all the things that serve to convey who we are, effectively and authentically.

Especially our voices.

ROBBER THREATENS DISABLED VICTIM

34-year-old Mohammed Sagheer threatened a cerebral palsy sufferer with a hot iron, boiling water and a knife before threatening to kill him.

After stealing his credit card Sagheer demanded the PIN number off of Dunbar Brown or else threatening to stab

35

LAUNCHES BID TO CLEAR NAME

“

JAILED

NOVEMBER 2014

him. He claimed he would use the card to withdraw money to buy a phone top-up, vodka, cigarettes and weed.

It was only when left alone that Brown could raise an alarm in the flat for help. The drug addict was arrested and pleaded guilty to robbery, he was sentenced to four years.

• MURDERED: Sana Ali

Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) to look at her case again.

Sanghera claims she confronted Ali on the day of the attack but then left through the front door whilst Ali was still alive.

However evidence revealed the defendant left a footprint on the kitchen floor, indicating she escaped through the kitchen window.

Her legal team are now attempting to uncover new evidence surrounding the window, footprint and mobile phone analysis.

HAMMER ATTACK APPEAL Two brothers jailed for attacking a man with a claw hammer have been refused a request to reduce their 12 year long sentences.

22-year-old Ajay and 23-year-old Ravinder Singh attacked Gurvinder Dari over an unpaid debt. The brothers appealed their sentences in front of Lord Justice Treacy, Mr Justice Turner and Judge Michael Pert QC, at London’s Criminal Appeal Court.

The siblings from Harborne were charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent at Birmingham Crown Court. Both men, also convicted car thieves, were sentenced to 12 years separately.

The brothers were friends with the then 18-year-old victim previously, before the relationship became strained after they claimed he owed them money.

They travelled down Lodge Road in a Range Rover towards the Devonshire Arms pub where Dari was.

Ravinder and Ajay brutally attacked Dari with hammers causing severe damage including skull fractures and bleeding in the brain. They disguised themselves with black hats and gloves before retreating; the injured man survived the attack and was driven home by a friend.

Lawyers for the pair argued Dari’s injuries were not that serious and the jail terms were too long for the criminals considering their age.

• ROBBER: Mohammed Sagheer

But Lord Justice Treacy, dismissing the appeal, said: “This was a sustained assault, and on no view could these injures be regarded as superficial.

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NOVEMBER 2014

HEALTH COLUMN

WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM

CHILD-KILLER MURDERED BY TWO FELLOW INMATES

LIVING WITH DIABETES

World Diabetes Day is celebrated on 14 November every year and aims to raise awareness of the condition.

Did you know around 2.9 million people living in the UK have diabetes, with an additional 850,000 people estimated to be living undiagnosed with the condition?

Birmingham has the highest rate of diabetes in the country. affecting nearly one in 10 people in some parts of the city (source: Health and Social Care Information Centre).

British and South Asians in particular are more prone to having the disease.

So what is diabetes? It is a long term condition where blood sugar levels become too high.

Normally the amount of sugar in the blood is controlled by a hormone called insulin. In those that have diabetes, the body is unable to break down glucose into energy.

This is because there is either not enough insulin to move the glucose or because the insulin that is there does not work properly.

Genetic factors, ethnicity, age as well as obesity influence how likely you are to develop diabetes, which can have serious health consequences including heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness and foot ulcers. With early diagnosis and treatment, the risk of developing these complications can be reduced.

There are two main types you need to know about – Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes. In both cases the symptoms are similar and will include an increased desire to drink as a result of being frequently thirsty, feeling very tired, blurred vision, losing weight and needing to urinate a lot, especially at night. If you think you have symptoms of diabetes, it is important to get medical advice.

Type 1 diabetes can develop very quickly, in a matter of days or weeks.

Where Type 1 is present, the body is attacking and

INMATE MURDER

• HEALTH: Dr Abd Tahrani

destroying insulin supplies.

Insulin producing cells are destroyed too, which results in there being no insulin produced. To keep your glucose levels normal, you will need regular insulin treatment. This mainly comes in the form of insulin injections which can either be given with a syringe or an injection pen.

Type 2 diabetes is much more common than Type 1. The body either does not produce the required amount of insulin or the body’s cells simply do not respond to the insulin, resulting in insulin resistance.

Treating Type 2 diabetes is usually achieved through lifestyle choices, such as regular monitoring of blood glucose as well as having a healthy and balanced diet. This is a progressive form of the disease and may eventually result in the need for medication – usually in tablet form.

Some people will also need injectable treatments.

To help reduce the risk of diabetes, try to avoid eating junk food as well as high sugar foods. High fat and sugar foods can lead to diabetes as well as obesity. Having fresh fruit and vegetables will make a difference. The second way you can prevent the disease is by exercising regularly.

Studies have shown the more outdoor activities you do; the more likely it is that the disease will decrease.

Reducing the amount of time you sit down can also minimise your risk of developing diabetes.

If you would like to find out about the diabetes services we provide at our Trust, please visit http:// w w w. h e a r t o f e n g l a n d . nhs.uk/diabetes-andendocrinology/.

Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust, runs Birmingham Heartlands, Solihull and Good Hope Hospitals, Birmingham Chest Clinic and Solihull Community Services and is one of the top five employers in the region.

NEWS

W

orcestershire's Long Lartin jail has come under fire over an inmate’s murder during a prison siege last year.

Convicted child-killer Subhan Anwar was murdered by two fellow inmates whilst serving his sentence at the Midlands based prison.

The establishment has been criticised after it was discovered they had taken just under an hour to call for medical help.

Details were published in an official report about a hostage siege last year when the murder took place.

Inmates Gary Smith, 49, and Lee Newell, 45, tied up Anwar in his cell and strangled him with a

pair of jogging bottoms. The two prisoners were already serving sentences for murders they committed during the 1980s and 1990s.

It was revealed the pair had taken hostages during earlier, but separate, prison sieges in

trial in Warwick Crown Court.

Anwar himself was serving a life sentence for torturing and murdering the two-year-old daughter of his lover.

After Anwar’s murder, it was found that authorities took 50 minutes to call in

“I am bored and it was something to do.

“I’m not joking – I think he is dead.”

2007 and 2011 They informed prison staff that they took Anwar hostage because they were ‘bored’.

When they were asked why they had done it, one said through the door, "I am bored and it was something to do."

Smith and Newell were told they would never be released for killing Anwar, they were convicted after a two week

paramedics, who then took a further 30 minutes to reach the prison’s rural location.

“Both men had previously been involved in hostage-taking, but there had been no recent evidence to indicate that either of them posed significant risk of violence to other prisoners.”

TEACHER POSTS ‘RACIST’ JOKES ON FACEBOOK A Birmingham PE teacher has been suspended after posting offensive comments about Muslims on social media.

Jonathan Parker, a sports instructor at Washwood Heath Academy, wrote on Facebook: “Bloody kids. Coming out of our women and taking our jobs.

They should go back to where

they came from.” “Sainsbury have run out of pork chops.

I blame the Muslims. Vote UKIP.” The comments angered many Muslims who attended the private academy.

The teacher has been suspended for a month, pending investigation.

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ASIAN MEDIA AWARDS 2014 “

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE IN THE MEDIA

MEDIA PERSONALITIES AWARDED AT THIS YEAR’S CEREMONY aking place at Hilton Manchester Deansgate, the event was a celebration of leading figures and upcoming talent in Asian media.

The exclusive Media Personality of the Year award was given to Channel Four correspondent Krishnan Guru-Murthy.

Guru-Murthy has been noted for his reporting on human rights abuses both in the UK and internationally.

He has raised awareness on serious issues such as dispossessed communities.

As an ambassador for Channel 4’s foreign affairs programme Unreported World he has strove to expose injustices and inequalities across some of the most disadvantaged areas on the planet.

Actress Nina Wadia took home the The Sophiya Haque Services to British Television Award. Her many TV roles include Goodness Gracious Me and more recently as Zainab Masood in EastEnders.

Her award was presented

by Sayera, sister of Sophiya Haque and Asif Zubairy, ITV Commissioning Editor for Entertainment.

The BBCs first director of Indian heritage, Waris

TURN TO PAGE 56

• SPECIAL RECOGNITION: Apache Indian

Hussein, was honoured with the Outstanding Contribution to Media award. The director has worked with some of the most accomplished actors of the past 50 years as well as being the first ever director of the Doctor Who series in 1963.

Journalists were recognised too where Shekhar Bhatia was named Journalist of the Year. He has produced documentaries for Channel Four’sCutting Edge, Dispatches and the BBC’s Panorama. Key moments were a world exclusive interview with Reeva Steenkamp’s parents in South Africa and a special investigation into the death of Anni Dewani.

Actor turned investigative journalist Ross Kemp was a recipient in The Best Investigation category. His most recent work Ross Kemp’s Extreme World India was present in the category, the documentary series follows sex trafficking of young girls in India.

Fresh new talent was also present at the ceremony as The Young Journalist of the Year award went to Layla Haidrani. A History graduate from the University of Kent, Haidrani has produced a series of original and exclusive columns for student

and national publications.

TV reporter of the year was given to Channel Four’s Darshna Soni, for her work with Muslim women who where the full face veil and their experiences.

Star of Emmerdale, Chris Bisson who plays Jai Sharma was presented with the 2014 Best TV character award.

A new category at this year’s event ‘Best Video Channel’ rewarded famous Youtuber Humza Arshad. His videos celebrate the ups and downs of Asian life and since 2010 he has racked up almost 60 million YouTube views, becoming the most viewed British comedian and the most subscribed to British Asian with over 210,000 subscribers.

In the Marketing and PR category, hard-hitting play Nirbhaya picked up the Best Live Event Award for 2014.

Written and Directed by Yael Farber and performed

by London based Assembly, this powerful play highlights violence against women in India.

Media Moguls were named the Media Agency of the Year for the second year in a row.

Best Blog and Commentary award went to Look! A Singh!, whilst Bizasialive.com

was honoured with the Best Website award for 2014.

The Social and Charitable Campaign award went to the NHS’ stroke awareness campaign. The movement devised by Here and Now 365 aimed to reduce the number of deaths through stroke specifically in the Asian community.

In the radio section the BBC’s Asian Network won the Radio Station of the Year category for the second year running. They also received the Best Radio Show award for Tommy Sandhu’s breakfast show.

Slough based Asian Star 101.6 FM were presented with Regional Radio Station of the Year award. Anita Anand of Radio 4 was chosen as the Radio Presenter of the Year.

Media Manager at the Awards Umbreen Ali had warm words for the evening, “It was pleasing to see so many people representing the strength and depth within the media industry of the UK. “These awards are not about those we honour today but the people and organisations who continue to innovate and use their creative skills to entertain and inform all communities.”

• WINNER: Burka Avenger - Best TV Show

• WINNER: Chris Bisson - Best TV Character

• WINNER: Humza Arshad - Best Video Channel

• WINNER: Nina Wadia - Sophia Haque Services to British Television

WINNERS LIST Publication of the Year - Eastern Eye Best Blog & Commentary - Look! A Singh!

Best Website - BizAsiaLive.com Best Video Channel - Humza Productions Best Live Event - Nirbhaya Media Professional of the Year - Farzana Baduel Media Agency of the Year - Media Moguls Best Social and Charitable Campaign -Act Fast Stroke Campaign TV Report of the Year - Why Muslim women wear the veil (Channel 4) Best TV Character - Chris Bisson Best TV Show - Burka Avenger TV channel of the Year - Star Plus Regional Radio Station of the Year - Asian Star 101.6 Best Radio show - Tommy Sandhu Radio Station of the Year - BBC Asian Network Radio Presenter of the Year - Anita Anand Outstanding Young Journalist - Layla Haidrani Best Investigation - Ross Kemp: Extreme World India Journalist of the Year - Shekhar Bhatia The Sophiya Haque Services to British Television Award - Nina Wadia Outstanding Contribution to Media - Waris Hussein Media Personality of the Year - Krishnan Guru-Murthy

NURUN AHMED INTERVIEW

These awards are not about those we honour today but the people and organisations who continue to innovate and use their creative skills to entertain and inform all communities.

T

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NOVEMBER 2014

COMMUNITY CARE

YOUNG MUSLIM WRITERS AWARDS

A cancer awareness day was held at the Indian Community Centre.

Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) project manager Ravi Mattu organised the event, which featured representatives from Macmillan Cancer Support, Breast Cancer Care, the breast cancer support group, bowel screening, a nurse from the Royal Derby Hospital, Public Health Derby, Live Well, carers, Health Watch and the medicine management team.

Over 100 people attended the event and a ladies' yoga group donated £200 to Derby Breast Cancer Support.

Mrs Mattu said, “We would like to thank to all professional and community members who made effort to attend the event.”

LITERACY TALENT CELEBRATED AT ANNUAL EVENT

T

A BUNGLED ESCAPE

22-year-old Sohail Naeem reversed his Nissan Juke into a police car in a desperate bid to escape, after being found with £2,500 worth of heroin in his vehicle.

Officers managed to apprehend him by smashing his windscreen with batons. Searching the vehicle they found a “golf ball” sized package of heroin hidden in the centre console.

Naeem caused £2,100 worth of damage to the police vehicle, he pled guilty to possession of drugs and criminal damage to the car. He was jailed for four years.

DID YOU KNOW • Rate of female foeticide is higher in urban, affluent areas than rural poverty stricken regions.

• 274 girls die every day

in Punjab before they are born.

• India's 2011 census shows

a serious decline in the number of girls under the age of seven - activists fear eight million female foetuses may have been aborted in the past decade

• India outlawed dowries

in 1961, but the practice remains rampant and the value of dowries is constantly growing, affecting rich and poor alike.

• In 1961, for every 1,000

boys under the age of seven, there were 976 girls. Today, the figure has dropped to a dismal 914 girls.

• Statistics suggest that the

selective abortion of female foetuses is taking place on a big enough scale to account for between 1,400 and 4,700 “missing girls”

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• AWARDS: Former winner and playwrite Hanzla MacDonald with the winner of the Key Stage 4 Short Story Amani Anwar.

• AWARDS: Rahim Kane Abdullah of Yusuf Islam Foundation presenting the Writer of the Year Award to 11 year old Alwaaz Khan

GIDDHA PAO KURIYO Event Highlights Growing Concern of Female Infanticide In a move which showcased the vibrancy and enthusiasm of the Punjabi culture, an event, organised to raise awareness of the ongoing situation of female infanticide, has raised a staggering £4400.

Giddha Pao Kuriyo, a women’s only giddha and bolliyan event, raised the money for Unique Home for Girls, a charity that takes in abandoned girls, raises them and gives them a life beyond imaginable. Located in the heart of Punjab and established in 1993 by Prakash Kaur, who had been abandoned herself, the home caters to give girls back their lives through education and most importantly, love.

Talking to The Asian Today, organisers of the event,

RAISES OVER 4K FOR UNIQUE HOME FOR GIRLS

Baljinder Nizzer, Senior HR Consultant at Services4Schools and Manjit Kang, Women in Business specialist at NatWest Bank spoke of the importance of raising awareness of such issue.

"We are so proud and honoured to announce that following a very successful Giddha Pao Kuriyo we raised £3600 raised plus gift aid £800, which summed up to £4400.

"We were overwhelmed by the incredible response from all the beautiful women and would like to thank them for getting involved on the day.

Unique Home for Girls is a charity that is very close to both of our hearts. We believe that every child should have the opportunity to live a

he annual Young Muslim Writers Awards was hosted at the iconic Senate House in a dazzling awards ceremony celebrating young literary talent.

Now in its 9th year, the Young Muslim Writers Awards received hundreds of submissions to its short story and poetry competition.

Forty writers aged 5-16 were shortlisted whose writing was put before an internationally r e n o w n e d panel of judges including Debjani Chatterjee MBE, Birmingham poet laureate Dreadlockalien and awardwinning poet N a t h a l i e Handal.

Winners of the competition were announced on 18th October at London’s iconic Senate House in front of a packed audience of notable representative from the arts, media and education communities.

Along with the awards presentations, guests were treated to performances by award winning storyteller Alia AlZougbi, global singer/ songwriter Saif Adam and duo singing act Saffiya and Amaani.

The afternoon

life without facing gender bias and discrimination. We are so inspired and have the much respect for Bibi Prakash Kaur ji who has dedicated her life to bringing up and saving the girl child."

"These are the daughters of Punjab.

Young girls are left abandoned to die

• GPK: A traditional boliyan sitting staged at Giddha Pao Kuriyo

• GPK: Raffle Ticketing

ceremony was hosted by former Birmingham poet laureate Dreadlockalien, and guests also enjoyed inspirations speeches and a drinks and buffet reception.

The project, run by Muslim Hands – an international charity and relief organisation, aims to raise the standards of child literacy and enrich the lives of young people. This year’s competition was once again presented by the Yusuf Islam Foundation, an umbrella organisation promoting education, the alleviation of poverty and community development.

Chairman of Muslim Hands, Lakhte Hassanain said,” Over the years we have thoroughly enjoyed working with young people, whether they are orphans or pupils we support in developing countries, or whether they are keen writers in the UK. We want to nurture talent, instil a love for the written word and develop more confident communicators.

By developing the writing skills of young people we hope to create a more vibrant society.”

“We were very impressed with the continual improvement in the submissions we received this year and look forward to meeting the young stars at October’s awards ceremony.”

The ceremony was filmed

by Islam Channel, due for broadcast later. The channel has been the official media partner of the project since the first ceremony in 2006.

• GPK: Giddha Dancing

by their biological parents just because they are girls. It also made us reflect on our own selves - what can we do to change this mindset both in this country and Punjab.

We have both pushed our own personal and professional boundaries to demonstrate that girls and women can make our communities proud and not to be underestimated, overlooked or ignored."

"Bibiji has made Unique Home for Girls the 'maika' for so many women who still come back to visit. She has given these girls a home, clothes, food and education but most of all she has given them an identity and love which their own families failed to give them."

"We would like to thank our stallholders, photographer Pammi Ghai, our entertainment DJ Nav, our caterers Taggar Sweet Centre, Jalandhar Sweet Centre and all the women who came along to share their magic and sparkle."

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WE WERE THERE TOO: 75,000 KILLED • 65,000 INJURED • 1 MILLION MEN SENT TO FIGHT REMEMBERING THE "FORGOTTEN HEROES OF WW1”

• REMEMBERING THE GREAT WAR: Indian soldiers tending to horses

LEST WE FORGET Exploring the South Asian Contribution to the Great War

The Village with the Gun

By Dr Irfan Malik & Michael Noble

Remembering the Soldiers of the First World War

• Captain Ghulam Mohammad Malik

• The Dulmial Cannon

A nineteenth century cannon sits at the centre of a Pakistani village.

Dulmial is a village approximately 100 miles south of Islamabad, in the Salt Range region. A century ago, the area was part of British India, which meant that its inhabitants were drawn into the Great War on the side of the Allies. A settlement steeped in military history, Dulmial sent 460 of its men to fight in the British Army, including both of Dr Malik’s great grandfathers.

The largest single participation of any village in Asia. Nine gave their lives. In recognition of the significant military service and sacrifice, in 1925 the British Government offered Dulmial an award of their choosing. The man in charge of choosing was Captain Ghulam Mohammad Malik, the highest ranking and most decorated soldier of the village. The Captain was a man of great experience, having commenced his military life in

the Derajet Mountain Battery and participated in Lord Robert’s famous march from Kabul to Kandahar in 1880.

The British agreed to this selection and provided Dulmial with a twelve pounder.

The cannon itself was made at Carron ironworks, in Falkirk, Scotland in 1816. The stand was built in Cossipore Gun Foundry, India under the leadership of Captain A. Broome, in 1847. The gun was first collected from the First Punjab Regimental Centre in Jhelum, from where it was carried by train to Chakwal.

There, the gun was dismounted and loaded in a cart to be pulled by three pairs of oxen for the remaining 28 kms.

Safely in Dulmial, the gun was place at the centre of the village and a photograph taken with the local commissioned officers. It remains there today, a reminder of the contribution that Dulmial made in the First World War.

" They fought together, they fell together, & together they defended the freedoms we enjoy today. " • PRIME MINISTER: David Cameron

A

sian contributions to both world wars are not widely known about, despite the fact that India raised the world’s largest volunteer armies: 1.5 million in WWI and 2.5 million in WWII. World War I marked an important watershed.

For the first time, Indian soldiers were fighting on European soil. They fought in all the major theatres of war on land air and sea, alongside British troops. Their many awards for bravery, as well as their war graves and memorials on the battlefields, are testimony to their sacrifice in the service of Britain. Unrecognised for decades, their contributions are only now being fully acknowledged.

In August 1914, soon after the outbreak of war when the British Expeditionary Force had been almost wiped out, Britain called on the Indian Army to fill the vital gap left in its defences. The first 28,500 Indian Army troops arrived on the Western Front on 26 September. They played a crucial role in holding the line and are said to have arrived just ‘in the nick of time’. Indian soldiers were deployed widely and fought in the battles of Ypres, Neuve Chapelle, the Somme and Passchendaele and in even greater number in Mesopotamia.

Indian soldiers did not fight as a separate army, but alongside British units, which led to a certain amount of social interaction. These contacts were fostered by the common experience of the horrors of trench warfare.

A total of 1 million men were sent from India to fight on the war

front which consituted all allied forces. 75,000 in total lost their lives.

The India Office and War Office wanted Indian soldiers to receive the same level of care as their British counterparts.

Indian style food was provided for their tastes, and the Indian style pavilion hospital was considered to help the fighters feel ‘at home’.

Burial rights were also observed according to the respective religions of the fallen. As their letters suggest, though complimentary about the care they received, soldiers were critical of the restrictions placed on their movement.

Chaperoned at every occasion, with every outing carefully stagemanaged, many felt like prisoners.

Indra Lal Roy came to Britain for his schooling in 1908. Keen to join Britain’s war effort, he enlisted with the Royal Flying Corps, the precursor of the Royal Air Force. He had to overcome many obstacles to receive his commission. He flew as part of George McElroy’s Squadron 40 and was a successful fighter pilot.

Between 6 and 19 July 1918, in only 170 hours and 15 minutes of flying time, he shot down 10 enemy aircraft. He died in action, aged 19 on 22 July 1918. He was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.

The large number of Indian wounded in the military hospitals along Britain’s southern coast brought with it the need for appropriate burial provisions, as some soldiers did not survive their injuries. The burial ground near the Woking Mosque received the bodies of 21 Muslim soldiers.

The contribution of 1.2 million soldiers from the Indian subcontinent and others from the Commonwealth who fought for Britain in the First World War must be recognised when the nation marks the centenary of the start of fighting, according to Sayeeda Warsi.

“Seeing the graves of Muslims, Hindus and Sikhs lying side by side with their Christian and Jewish comrades on the fields where they fought together and died together was incredibly powerful.”

"We often imagine how hard it was for the lads from Britain, who knew little of life beyond their own towns and villages, arriving in Flanders fields. Think, then, what it must have been like for the thousands who sailed over from the Indian subcontinent, arriving in a landscape so sodden that people actually drowned in the mud.”

"Our boys weren't just Tommies – they were Tariqs and Tajinders too, and we have a duty to remember their bravery and commemorate their sacrifices. I have made it my mission to ensure that the centenary is a chance for everyone to learn about the contribution of the Commonwealth soldiers and those who might otherwise be forgotten."

• • •

• •

DID YOU KNOW?

The Indians won 13,000 medals including 12 Victoria Crosses.

200 Nurses were killed of which 98 were from British India.

India also supplied 170,000 animals and equipment for military warfare, as well as 3.7m tonnes of supplies including rice and wheat.

Approximately 136,000 Indians fought on the western front.

650,00 fought in Mesopotamia and 144,000 in Egypt.

For The Fallen They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them.

They mingle not with their laughing comrades again; They sit no more at familiar tables of home; They have no lot in our labour of the day-time; They sleep beyond England's foam.

As the stars that shall be bright when we are dust, Moving in marches upon the heavenly plain, As the stars that are starry in the time of our darkness, To the end, to the end, they remain.

LAURENCE BINYON

JOIN IN WITH THE TRIBUTE ON SOCIAL MEDIA #WEWERETHERETOO

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NOVEMBER 2014

MUSLIM SCHOOL'S APPLICATION REJECTED A Muslim school in Coventry must find new residence or be forced to close down after a rejected application by the city council’s planning chiefs.

The school, based in a mid-terraced house in Queen Marys Road, Foleshill, was refused a request to change the use of the building as well as add an extension.

The request was turned down by planning officers who claimed that the changes would cause “significant harm to the amenities of neighbouring residents via visual intrusion” and “increased competition for

on-street parking spaces on an already heavily-parked road”.

The school has received the support of three of Foleshill’s ward councillors, one of whom, Councillor Abdul Khan, stated that the applicant had “done a great deal of work for the local community” according to the planning officers’ report, and had a significant hand in helping to eliminate antisocial behaviour.

A spokesperson for the Coventry City Council said they would try to arrange a new accommodation site for them.

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PUPILS TO PERFORM AT THE R

NOISY MOSQUE REMAINS OPEN A Mosque based in Birmingham was allowed to stay permanently open despite police concerns over lack of parking spaces and traffic congestion.

The Sultania Hadayat-ulQuran prayer hall on Station Road, Erdington, houses up to 23 attendants. It has been open for over a year under temporary planning permission before being granted full approval.

But 10 residents in the area have reportedly complained about noises coming from the Mosque which sometimes stays open from 04:15am to 11:00pm. Police also fear

there is not enough parking in the street for users of the Mosque and Islamic school.

However, the planning committee was told that during the year-long trial there were no official complaints about noise or traffic incidents, therefore the prayer centre could gain approval.

Councillor Bob Beauchamp said, “Parking is a problem as raised by police. Residents have complained to us about the chatter and banging of car doors late at night.

“We must limit this for the peace of the area.”

GREAT BIRMINGHAM RUN CHALLENGE 2014

• STUDENT PERFORMERS: The Calderdale Massed Ensemble

TROJAN HORSE

BIRMINGHAM SCHOOLS CONTINUE TO FAIL

F

ive schools implicated in the Trojan Horse scandal have been declared “failing” by Ofsted.

The Trojan Horse controversy which arose earlier this year over an alleged plot to introduce hard-lined Islamic views into schools has also left the remaining schools implicated in the scandal in disrepute. The schools have

Over 20,000 people took part in the annual Bupa Great Birmingham Run challenge 2014.

Gold medal triathlete Jodie Stimpson had the honour of sounding the starting horn before the race began in Town Hall. The race course went through Canon Hill Park and Cadbury Factory, up the mile-long hill from hall to Five Ways Island and finishing on Broad Street.

Racers wore fancy dress with colourful costumes including Batman, gorillas, a gingerbread man, a giraffe, Kermit the Frog, a bunch of bananas, and even a

Jamaican Bobsleigh Team complete with a bobsleigh.

Catching the public’s eye however was Luke Grubb, who drew laughter from the crowd as he ran the course dressed in a 20 kilo sumo wrestling suit.

As one of the biggest races in the UK, participators ran not only to challenge themselves but raise money for charities close to their hearts.

Despite serious weather conditions such as heavy winds and a week of non stop rain, racers were undeterred and fortunately the sun shone brilliantly on the day.

• Ofsted Chief: Sir Michael Wilshaw

been declared to be failing

by Ofsted chief Sir Michael Wilshaw, who wrote to Education Secretary Nicky Morgan stating, "Too much poor practice remained unchallenged during the summer term".

He added that although plans were put into place to improve the curriculum at schools, they lacked the direction to “actively

promote” core British values and tolerance of different faiths and backgrounds.

A spokesperson for the Department for Education said the Ofsted reports were “a snapshot” reflecting the situation of the schools when inspections took place, sometimes just a few days after the start of the new school year.

“We are confident that the

strong leadership teams we have put in place mean that change will be rapid and effective once it has had more than a few weeks to have an impact.”

The education of the pupils from the targeted schools has not been the only aspect of their school careers which has been affected, with some pupils now claiming that they cannot secure work experience with companies because of the controversy.

Shadow Schools Minister Liam Byrne, Labour MP for Hodge Hill, has alleged that pupils from Park View Educational Trust schools were experiencing this problem, stating: “Kids are telling us they have been turned down for work experience as soon as they tell people which school they go to.

“We do not want these children to suffer purely because of the legacy of this scandal.

“I want the business community to come together and to help these brilliant kids to enable them to have a great future.”

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ROYAL ALBERT HALL

ROYALTY

700 children from the Parkinson Lane Community Primary School and Calderdale Music Service in Halifax will take to the world’s most famous stage.

O

• PIANIST: Bobby R.S

• ARTIST: Shahbaz Hussain

“FAKE SHEIKH” EXPOSED The “Fake Sheikh”, Mazher Mahmood, failed to win a High Court injunction to prevent his identity from being revealed. A former journalist for News of the World, Mahmood disguised himself as a Sheikh and exposed various individuals as part of his work.

Attention was drawn to Mahmood, a registered police informant, in the drugs trial of pop star Tulisa Contostavlos in which he was a witness. The ex journalist’s reputation was left severely damaged during the prosecution in which the judge accused Mahmood of lying.

The trial, based on Mahmood's investigation, was not the first prosecution the 'fake Sheikh' was a part of, having previously claimed his work had led to the convictions of upwards of 250 criminals, a number later revised to 94 after a subsequent inquiry was made.

Mahmood was finally exposed in a BBC Panorama show exploring the journalist’s life and his relationship with the police. A judge ruled there was, “no reason to restrict the corporation's freedom of speech or editorial discretion”.

n 10 November, nearly 700 children from the Parkinson Lane Community Primary School and Calderdale Music Service in Halifax will take to the world’s most famous stage for the Schools Prom. The Calderdale Massed Ensemble will perform at the ‘Metamorphosis’ themed concert in the first of three evenings of the Schools Prom concert series presented by national youth music organisation Music for Youth.

Calderdale were delighted to be chosen to perform following an application process, which included submissions from several well-known national music hubs.

The school will embark upon a song made famous by the Qawwal Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. The school’s ambitious project emanates from activities undertaken whilst studying issues of community cohesion surrounding the historical figure Razia Sultan.

They explored themes of equal opportunities, right versus wrong, just against the unjust and what we leave our loved ones when we pass on.

DISCOUNT

HOME DECOR www.discounthomedecor.co.uk

The 650 children have been taught Qawwali “Tumhein Dil Lagi” by Shahbaz Hussain and Bobby R.S, established artists in their own rights. This project presents a way of learning and experiencing new music styles to blend and amalgamate the different genres of art, namely dance, drama and music, to showcase a truly exceptional performance at the Royal Albert Hall.

The schools involved in the project are All Saints CE (VA) J & I School, Holy Trinity P.S CE, Luddenden CE School, Mount Pellon Primary Academy, Parkinson Lane Community Primary School, St Augustine’s CE, St Mary’s Catholic PS, Warley Road PS, Halifax High, The Crossley Heath School, The North Halifax Grammar School.

Rizwana Ahmed, deputy headteacher, acknowledged the hard work undertaken by pupils and staff. “The staff of the school have really excelled themselves, the children rose to the occasion and performed the play and song in a manner that made them stand out from the outstanding. Having

seen the children performing I know the audience of the Royal Albert Hall will not be disappointed.”

Mrs Akhtar Hussain informed us that the song depicts a battle with chants being thrown from one party to another. “At intervals the chants are broken by individual performers that made your insides glow with pride.”

All children will wear costumes; an interpretive dance will accompany the 650 strong choir, giving the audience an aural and visual feast whilst inviting them to become a part of the battle and for good to overcome wrong.

An audience at the Victoria Theatre enjoyed a sneak preview in July, which was very well received with much of the audience hoping to make the journey to see them perform for a second time at the Royal Albert Hall.

A flash mob was also performed in the centre of Halifax with the 650 children all coming out and singing, which also appeared on ITV Calendar News.

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EDUCATION

THE ASIAN TODAY

NOVEMBER 2014

EDUCATION ENGINEERING GENIUS

C

oventry University is planning to introduce new audiences to the life and works of one of the country’s most influential automobile engineers through an ambitious new project.

University researchers are preparing to bring to life the fascinating archive of material it possesses on pioneering car builder, scientist, inventor and engineering genius Frederick Lanchester.

The international charity, The Lanchester Trust will be supporting the university during the venture, which

will culminate in a permanent public exhibition of physical items including photographs, correspondence and original designs at the university’s city centre library, which is named in Lanchester’s honour.

Born in London in 1868, Frederick Lanchester is considered one of the leading automobile engineers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A visionary scientist, Lanchester also made significant contributions to the field of aerodynamics, helping to establish

COLLEGE OPENS DOORS AT OPEN EVENTS Visit one of our Open Events: Saturday 8th November (10.00 am until 1.00 pm) or Tuesday 9th December (5.00 pm until 8.00 pm).

www.bmetc.ac.uk. #BMetOPEN

Birmingham Metropolitan College’s Sutton Coldfield, Great Barr and Birmingham City Centre Campuses, as well as the Birmingham Botanical Gardens Study Centre, will be opening doors for school leavers at its Open Events. Hundreds of education and training opportunities are available for Year 10 and 11 pupils as well as higher education and part time courses on offer for adults.

There will be taster sessions on offer for selected courses and visitors can

tour the campuses, attend talks, receive career advice and meet with teachers and students to find out more about college life and learning.

Birmingham Metropolitan College’s range of courses, apprenticeships and higher education courses across Birmingham is one of the best in the West Midlands.

“Choosing the right college is a big decision, which is why our Open Events are designed to showcase every aspect of the learning journey, whether it’s being in the classroom, studying independently or getting involved in

extracurricular activities,” said Andrew Cleaves, Principal at Birmingham Metropolitan College. “Our focus for school leavers is very much on offering a great range of courses for the local communities we serve, helping to fill local skills gaps and preparing people for work or higher education.

We’ve recently invested a substantial amount of money on new facilities at our James Watt Campus and Erdington Skills Centre, as well as introducing new courses at our Birmingham Botanical Gardens Study Centre.”

key principles of powered flight which still apply today, and his mathematical theories on military combat and strategy have formed the basis for operations models commonly used in business.

By opening its archives to the public, researchers at Coventry University hope to address this. His legacy has impacted directly upon the university, having been established initially as Lanchester Polytechnic back in 1970 and its library today still bears his name.

Lanchester Interactive project leader

Jacqueline Cawston from Coventry University said, “Frederick Lanchester was a prophetic and prolific engineer, scientist and creative thinker whose influence was far reaching across different disciplines.”

“But his story is incredible and with this exciting educational heritage project we hope to introduce modern audiences to the life of this remarkable man and in doing so celebrate someone who is very much a local hero.”

Courses to Brighten up Your Life If you haven’t studied for a while and you are worried about taking the first step, we are here to help, with short courses in:

• Construction • Hair & Beauty • Gardening • Photography • Pattern Cutting • Nail Art • Bread Making

• Food Hygiene • Setting up your own business • Volunteering • Parenting Skills • Video Editing • Reflexology

Plus learn how to improve your English Skills Many courses are free for those on benefits and are offered at convenient locations.

t: 0121 362 1174 w: bmetc.ac.uk e: ask@bmetc.ac.uk

RIGHT FOR THE JOB AHEAD

RIGHT

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BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS… Halesowen College’s Whittingham Road Campus will be open on Friday 7 November 4.00-8.00pm and Saturday 8 November 10.004.00pm for prospective students to find out more about the extensive range of courses on offer and our modern, inclusive facilities.

Along with highlighting our exceptional range of 1619 courses and outstanding facilities, the College is promoting its accessibility for students with disabilities.

In celebrating just how inclusive the College is, there will be a host of activities during the events including: • W h e e l c h a i r Basketball interactive sessions on this high profile/ high octane Paralympic sport • Meet Paralympic Silver Medallist, Mel Clarke and test your skill in Archery sessions – you can even see an Olympic torch!

• Win an iPad competition • Talks in the Business Studies department

by Jane Hatton, entrepreneur

and CEO of ‘Evenbreak’, a highly successful and award winning recruitment firm which, specialises in finding employment for people with disabilities • Live Music, Theatre and Dance performances • Interactive Sports and Catering events Alex Griffin, Student Experience Director said, “The College is always striving to break down barriers for young people wishing to further their education. Open Events provide a fantastic opportunity for prospective students to explore our excellent facilities, meet dedicated staff and talk to our talented students about their successes.”

The College has invested £20m upgrading facilities over the last few years, which has included three new state-ofthe art teaching blocks for Health & Social Care, Animal Care, Science, IT, Travel & Tourism and specialist teaching accommodation for students with learning difficulties. There is also a

new all-weather sports pitch, a fitness trail and an outdoor gym and plans are already underway to create additional new and exciting facilities for our students to enjoy.

Our newly built University Centre also provides further outstanding learning resources for 19+ students undertaking High Education and Access programmes.

Halesowen College offers the widest range of courses in the area, ranging from Entry Level to Foundation Degrees and enjoys an excellent reputation, record breaking results and an outstanding campus….Come and see it for yourself!

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EDUCATION

NOVEMBER 2014

SMETHWICK SCHOOL CHARTS JOURNEY OF SPICE

“The Academy has hit on an imaginative way for children to learn about the heritage of diverse local communities and then share their newly-acquired knowledge with people of all ages.”

The role of spices in shaping the culture, cuisine and customs that different communities have brought to life in Smethwick will be uncovered by local primary schoolchildren, thanks to a £9,700 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

Many different communities have settled in the town since the 1950s and Victoria Park Primary Academy is setting out to capture stories and memories from local people. The 450-pupil school will be researching how the use of spices has shaped cultural traditions, festivals, ceremonies, cooking and costumes.

Some will visit the Birmingham factory of East End Foods, where the major West Midlands firm prepares and packages many different spices.

Others will go to Smethwick’s SallopDrive Market Garden to see how spices have been cultivated in the heart of the community for over 50 years.

Community workshops are planned to help unlock people’s memories about the use of spices and these personal histories will be recorded.

Reyahn King, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund West Midlands, said: “The Academy has hit on an imaginative way for children to learn about the heritage of diverse local communities and then share their newly-acquired knowledge with people of all ages.”

Nick Clitheroe who is leading the project at Victoria Park Primary Academy said, “Children investigating and recording how spices are used in the different parts of our community will bring people together, breed understanding and create a lasting legacy making people proud of the heritage of their local area.”

CADBURY COLLEGE OPENS ITS DOORS TO WELCOME VISITORS TO ITS ANNUAL OPEN DAY Young people and their families are being invited to Cadbury Sixth Form College’s annual Open Day on Saturday 8th November 2014.

The Open Day will provide young people and their parents with an opportunity to find out about the specialist A Level college, which offers over 45 different advanced level courses including A Level and BTEC qualifications at Level 3.

The event is aimed at students in Year 11 who will take their GCSEs in summer 2015. The government has risen the participation age, which means that young people completing their GCSEs next year are required to stay in education or training until their 18th birthday. However, this does not mean that pupils have to stay in school, one of the options is to continue their education at a sixth form college, such as Cadbury College.

Situated in Kings Norton, Cadbury College caters exclusively for 16 to 18 years olds.

This year, the college continued its record of excellence with a ‘Good’ grading from Ofsted and another great set of A Level

For more information visit www.cadcol.ac.uk

COVENTRY UNIVERSITY STUDY PSYCHOLOGY OF RELIGION Researchers at Coventry University are calling for participants to take part in a new study investigating the psychological makeup of people with religious and spiritual beliefs.

In doing so, the team at the University’s Faculty at Health and Life Sciences hope to develop a better understanding of the parts of the brain involved in what makes some people believe in God or be spiritual and others not.

Recent research suggests there are regions of the prefrontal cortex - the most frontal part of the brain – that are most active when people reject spiritual ideas.

The University is now looking for volunteers who are religious or who hold spiritual beliefs as well as those who are atheist or agnostic to take part in studies.

Participants will need to travel to the research team’s centre at Coventry University where they will be asked to complete a number of questionnaires and computerised tasks. They will also be required to undergo a safe form of neurocognitive stimulation.

Coventry University postdoctoral researcher Ute Kreplin said, “Our new study will be looking at this in more detail and we are looking for volunteers to take part in our tests as we attempt to formulate a deeper understanding of the cognitive and neural bases of spiritual and religious ideas, attitudes and beliefs.“ Anyone wishing to take part in the study should contact the research team at Coventry University via email: belieflab@ coventry.ac.uk

THE SPECIALIST SIXTH FORM COLLEGE

Cadbury College

OPEN DAYS

Saturday 8 November 2014,10am to 4pm Wednesday 10 December 2014, 6pm to 8pm

results that enabled around 80% of students to progress onto university.

The Open Day will run from 10am until 4pm at the college campus in Downland Close, Kings Norton in Birmingham.

Visitors will be able to speak to subject teachers first-hand who will answer any questions regarding individual courses and there will be introductory talks by Principal Jeremy Rogers scheduled throughout the day.

Students will be available to talk about their subjects and their own experience of college life. There will be a fashion show showcasing garments created by A Level Textiles students, live music performances and a pop-up cinema screening short films created by A Level Film and

Media students.

Local universities will be on-hand to help individuals plan their next step after A Levels. Representatives from The University of Birmingham, Coventry University, Birmingham City University and Derby University will offer degree course advice.

Andy Cookson, Assistant Principal Learner Experience, said “For anyone who is interested in studying at a sixth form college, I would advise them to visit our Open Day. It is a great opportunity for year 11 students and their parents to find out what the college offers and get a chance discuss their options with our subject specialist teaching staff.”

49

A GOOD COLLEGE - OFSTED 2014 OVER 45 ADVANCED LEVEL COURSES 80% OF STUDENTS GAIN A UNIVERSITY PLACE APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR SEPT 2015

www.cadcol.ac.uk | 0121 458 3898 | @cadburycollege

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CONSULTATION BEGINS FOR NEW BUSINESS SCHOOL ANXIETY AND MENTAL HEALTH RISES Awareness Day for University Students Students starting university this term say they are stressed out, worried about how they look and have concerns about their mental health.

The findings of a Birmingham City University survey of new undergraduates as they prepared to start their studies emerged ahead of National Stress Awareness

Day. Ninety one per cent of the new arrivals reported periods of stress or anxiety in their lives in the months or years before arriving at university, three quarters said they worry about how they look, with just as many students (60 per cent) worrying about what they eat.

Responding to the findings, the University’s

Student Services offered five top tips on staying well. Students themselves offered top tips on stress busting, from exercising to playing loud music or watching hours of TV on Netflix.

Forty five per cent of students admitted having concerns about their mental health, either a little or a lot.

F

ollowing the Department for Education’s approval to preopening phase for King Solomon International Business School earlier this year, prospective parents and the wider community members in Birmingham are being asked to share their views on the proposal to create a new all-through free school in the area.

The school will open in September 2015 with 90 Year 7 pupils and 60 Reception pupils near to Aston University. The proposers are holding two drop-in sessions on Monday 10th November from 6.00 – 8.00pm at Nechells Community Sports Centre, Rupert Street, Nechells, Birmingham B7 5DT and on Thursday 27th November from 10.00 – 12.00 at Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, 75 Harbourne Rd, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 3DH. The school has also set up a consultation area on its website.

Dr Cheron Byfield, Governor, adds: “This is an extremely exciting proposal and we are keen to share our ideas and vision for a school that promises a first-rate education accessible to children from all backgrounds. King Solomon will be Birmingham’s first international business, all-through, Christian, International Baccalaureate (IB), world free school. We hope to meet many members of the local community at our consultation events and hear their views.”

An Open Event for prospective parents and carers with children starting primary or Secondary school from September 2015 is also being held at Birmingham Chambers of Commerce on Thursday 27th November from 10.00 – 12.00.

Those with children due to start primary or secondary school next September can apply for one of the 90 Year 7 places and 60 Reception places at King Solomon. The school has a citywide, non-selective admissions policy.

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EDUCATION

'UNWELCOMING' UK University Minster Greg Clark is to travel to India and promote the UK as an ideal place for international students. This was after a 15% drop in Indian students coming to study in Britain, reportedly due to feeling unwelcome in the country.

Reasons include the clampdown on immigration, which has contributed to the hesitation of these students.

Clark’s visit will also aim to explore closer links between Britain and India’s scientific research, as well as plans for more university exchanges between the countries.

International students contribute an estimated £7.9 billion a year within the UK, with India and China having the highest outbound higher education students from across the globe.

A study from the National Union of Students (NUS) has revealed that almost 50% feel the UK government was either "not welcoming" or "not welcoming at all towards overseas students". The NUS is a confederation of

students' unions in the UK. Figures showed the non-welcoming attitude was most pronounced for PhD students. “Almost 63% of Indian students doing their PhD in the UK felt unwanted, besides 64.5% from Japan and 63% from Nigeria.’

Students from India, Pakistan and Nigeria have also admitted advising their friends not to study in the UK. Asked what bothered them the most, 40% cited moves to get landlords to check on their legal status, while 74% said introducing a National Health Service levy would make it impossible to study in the UK. England is already witnessing a sharp tumble in the number of Indian students visiting its universities for higher education.

Latest data shows between 2010-11 and 2011-12, over 10,000 fewer Indian students travelled to English shores to pursue a post-graduation degree. In percentage points, there was a nearly 25% fall in the number of Indian students studying a postgraduate course.

28/10/2014 13:14

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NOVEMBER 2014 DESI XPRESS 51

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DESI

KESH

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XPRESS

NO.1 FOR ASIAN ENTERTAINMENT

K H S E K N U R NU AHMED

SPECIAL: THE APPRENTICE STAR

EXCLUSIVE

INTERVIEW

A

TALKS ABOUT HER INCREDIBLE JOURNEY PG 56

new rising star has emerged to take his place in the music industry. DesiXpress had the pleasure of speaking to up and coming singer, Kesh K. What makes Kesh stand out from the crowd is his passion for classical genres of music. This resulted in the release of his new single ‘Bhula Na Sakey’, a beautiful song with a blend of classical genres such as Sufi and Bollywood Gayaki. A multi-talented performer who is passionate about his work, Kesh sat down to talk about his influences, musical journey and latest song.

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20 YEARS OF UNINTERRUPTED

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Aditya Chopra's Classic Rom-Com Breaks More Records

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Katrina Kaif Wax Work Added at Madame Tussauds

!

D E X A W

HRITHIK PARTIES WITH

HEIRESS Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan and Hollywood socialite Paris Hilton enjoyed a night out in Dubai.

They attended the VIP launch of new restaurant Cle Dubai by celebrity chef Greg Malouf.

Hilton tweeted about the glamorous evening, ‘#GoodTimes at @CleDubai with Hrithik Roshan.

Such a beautiful restaurant, my new favourite hot spot in Dubai.’

Roshan was dressed in a smart grey suit for the evening whilst the heiress opted for the classic little black dress. With over 250 VIPs, other famous faces at the party included Hilton's sister Nicky, supermodels Alessandra Ambrosio, Carla DiBello and Khloe Kardashian.

After winning a public vote for fans to choose the next Bollywood actress to be featured at Madame Tussauds London, the world famous attraction today confirmed that Katrina Kaif will be joining the A-list line up next year.

Katrina Kaif will be the next Bollywood start to join our line up. We are delighted she has agreed to work with us to create her wax likeness and look

forward to revealing the figure to the public in Spring 2015," Nicole Fenner from the gallery said.

Katrina Kaif, said, "I am extremely excited that Madame Tussauds London will be creating my wax figure and the fact that fans were involved in the decision makes it even more special. It is amazing to be featured with icons of the Indian film industry. It is humbling."

BUCKSO L IR G S U IO R E T S Y M IS THE

SAN2 JAILED

How does an Asian woman, originally hailing from the industrial town of Stoke-on-Trent end up sitting on a bus sharing ice-cream with Peter Andre?

Currently appearing in a series of Iceland adverts with the star, Buckso grew up with aspirations of becoming an entertainer but coming from a traditional Asian family with a strong focus on education she wondered whether she would get the opportunity to follow her dreams.

Buckso said: “It was doing that one recording that gave me the bug, I just knew that that was what I wanted to do with my life but I wasn’t really sure how I could make it happen, so I just continued like most kids with school and hoping that one day I could make a living from entertaining people. Where I grew up and in my circle it just wasn’t the done thing for girls like me to be on television or stage. In the 80’s there weren’t many Asian women on screen so it felt like a massive challenge. ”

FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT Chart-topping Indian musician San2 has become the second man this month to be jailed for a sex attack on a passenger.

Real name, Dhanraj Singh, of Greythorn Drive, West Bridgford, he was taking a young woman home when he kissed and touched her.

The 24-year-old was told “he breached his passenger's trust because she was in his care and had been drinking.”

Nottingham Crown Court heard

that Singh was a bhangra singer and was due to fly to Bombay to film a music video after topping the Asian music charts.

The father-of-two was sent to prison for nine months yesterday after being found guilty earlier this month of sexual assault.

Judge Gregory Dickinson said: "You are a talented, award-winning musician.

You have put all of that in jeopardy. You were responsible for her safety and wellbeing. You took advantage of a lone female passenger who had been drinking."

After spending her 20’s and early 30’s working for East Midlands Trains and training as a nail technician she finally decided to follow her passion aged 35. She found an agent and since then things have gone from strength to strength with Buckso having small roles in BBC soap Doctors, Coronation Street, Waterloo Road and Law and Order UK as well as doing voice over work for Pearl and Dean.

Buckso continued: “I love acting and entertaining in general, one of my favourite things is singing jazz and big ballads. Things are picking up for me and although I got into the entertainment industry quite late, I’m really pleased I took that leap of faith.”

Buckso can currently be seen in the Iceland advertisements, later this year will feature in two episodes of award winning soap Hollyoaks and early next year will appear in an episode of the comedy penned by columnist and author Caitlin Moran, Raised by Wolves.

BFI FILM FESTIVAL London played host to the prestigious British Film Institute (BFI) Film Festival 2014. Film lovers everywhere attended screenings for 248 films over a course of 12 days from the 8th-19th October 2014.

A range of international films were shown within the genres of romance, documentary and many others. Titles include nail biting WW2 drama The Imitation Game and Brad Pitt war epic Fury.

www.desixpress.co.uk

NOVEMBER 2014 DESI XPRESS 53

WINNERS OF THE 'BEST LOCAL NEWSPAPER' AT THE ASIAN MEDIA AWARDS 2013

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'Bank-Chor’ is a comic-thriller, that tells the story of 3 idiots trying to rob a bank The shoot of YRF’s ‘Bank Chor’ kick-started this week in Mumbai amidst a lot of excitement.

Riteish Deshmukh and Vivek Oberoi go head on against each other in this mad riot with Rhea Chakraborty, previously seen in Mere Dad Ki Maruti, playing the female lead.

‘Bank-Chor’ is a comic-thriller, that tells the story of 3 idiots trying to rob a bank who pick the worst day possible to do this – when everything that can go wrong goes wrong and everything that can go right also goes wrong. Crazy hostages, cops, media, politicians and more. And just when you think things can’t get any worse, arrives CBI officer Amjad Khan who’s going to turn their life upside down!

‘Bank-Chor’ is directed by Bumpy and produced by Ashish Patil.

THE MOVIE IS SLATED FOR AN EARLY 2015 RELEASE

20 YEARS OF UNINTERRUPTED DDLJ Aditya Chopra's Classic Rom-Com Breaks More Records

Bollywood film Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, considered an ode to love by many, has started its 20th year of uninterrupted run at the iconic Maratha Mandir cinema hall in Mumbai.

The film changed the course of the nation's cinema and became an unparalleled brand by catapulting itself into being the l o n g e s t running film in the history of Indian cinema, read a statement from production banner Yash Raj Films.

Since its release on October 20, 1995, the

classic love story has won over the hearts of generations for the past 19 years and is still watched by the youth even today, often playing to packed houses during its daily 11:30 am show.

Featuring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, the movie made people fall in love with the characters Raj and Simran. Directed by Aditya Chopra, the film narrates the love story of a fun-loving Londonbred Punjabi boy with a girl brought up in a conservative family. How he wins over girl's side, forms the rest of the story.

The Yash Raj Films' project will complete 1000 historical weeks at the box office on December 12.

YODDHA

The Warrior Gets Local Premier After the massive success of his last Punjabi film 'Sadda Haq', Kuljinder Sidhu has released his latest movie titled 'Yoddha - The Warrior’.

The movie features Kuljinder in the lead role. This movie is directed by Mandeep Benipal and is written

by Amardeep Singh Gill and Kuljinder Sidhu himself.

This film is based on the life of a simple person but circumstances make him into a warrior. The movie released on 31st October and is available in cinemas.

Kuljinder Singh Sidhu – in the title role of a film he also co-wrote and co-produced – plays an ordinary man turned by fate into a fearless warrior.

MARRIED: DIA MIRZA TIES KNOT

Bollywood actor turned producer Dia Mirza married producer Sahil Sangha in an extravagant ceremony in New Delhi.

While the former beauty queen from Hyderabad looked stunning in a green and blue Ritu Kumar sharara paired with a long gold jacket, Sahil looked dapper in a Raghavendra Rathore cream achkan. A smiling Sahil escorted Dia as she stepped out from the car. Dia, who has been in a relationship with Sahil for over four years, was every inch the resplendent bride, beaming away in a beige-and-green designer sharara. The groom, equally ecstatic, looked dapper in a white sherwani. Sahil arrived in a horse-drawn carriage and his baaraatis spent a good one hour dancing to band-baaja at the farm entrance.

SRK: DEEPIKA IS ALWAYS THE STAR Shah Rukh Khan, the producer and hero of Deepika Padukone’s debut film Om Shanti Om, says she has paved the way for her own success and that she always had it in her to be a “star”.

SRK and Deepika worked under Farah Khan’s direction for Om Shanti Om, and the team has joined hands again for “Happy New Year”. In the gap of seven years, Deepika has established herself as one of the reigning beauties in Bollywood — and Shah Rukh feels the success is “all hers”.

“I must have made mistakes, I must have been good and bad,” Shah Rukh said as he mulled over his own journey.

But then talking of Deepika, he said, “I think Deepika was always a star. Since she was new, we did the Aankhon mein teri song and we showed it to Amitji (Amitabh Bachchan). He said, ‘She is a very huge star’. She was a supermodel at that time, so it’s not something we (Farah and I) have done.

TOP10 WITH KAMAL CHOPRA

KAM CHOPRA @kamchopra

BOLLYWOOD TOP 10 1 Meharbani – The Shaukeens 2 Kahe Sataye – Rang Rasiya 3 Jaise Mera Tu – Happy Ending 4 Sajde – Kill Dil 5 Lovely – Happy New Year 6 Bang Bang - Bang Bang 7 Samjhawan – HSKD 8 Tere Ho Ke Rahenge – Raja Natwarlal 9 Abhi Toh Par - Khoobsurat 10 Tere Bina - Heropanti

BHANGRA TOP 10 De Boot - Jazzy B ft. Dr Zeus 1 Mitran and Kaur B All The Way 2 Fresh - Garry Sandhu

3 Mitran Da Mela - Benny Dhaliwal 4 Handbag - Rana Sahota 5 Hat Ja Majujane - Gtown 6 Tere Bin - Surinder Saini Dream Girl - Aman Sandhu ft E=MC

7 and Roach Killa

8 Punjabi Panga - Dj Rags & K Singh 9 Das Ja 2 - DNA & Lember Hussainpuri Lethal Combination - Bilal Saeed and

10 Roach Killa

UK TOP 10 1 Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran 2 All About The Bass - Meghan Trainor 3 Shake It Off - Taylor Swift Bang Bang - Jessie J, Ariana Grande

4 and Nicki Minaj

5 Don't Tell Em - Jeremih Ft YG 6 Wicked Games - Parra For Cuva ft Anna Naklab

7 Steal My Girl - One Direction & Grind 2014 8 Bump Waze & Odyssey VS R Kelly

9 Blame - Calvin Harris ft John Newman 10 I'm Not The Only One - Sam Smith

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KESH K MAKES UNFORGETTABLE MUSIC DEBUT A

I'M JUST GOING TO GIVE IT A SHOT AND IF I FAIL AT LEAST I HAVE TRIED, I DON'T WANT ANY REGRETS IN MY LIFE.

WE HAVE FREE GIVE AWAY TICKETS TO: 4TH DEC AT 7PM OR 10TH DEC AT 7PM

new rising star has emerged to take his place in the music industry. DesiXpress had the pleasure of speaking to up and coming singer, Kesh K. What makes Kesh stand out from the crowd is his passion for classical genres of music. This resulted in the release of his new single ‘Bhula Na Sakey’, a beautiful song with a blend of classical genres such as Sufi and Bollywood Gayaki.

A multi-talented performer who is passionate about his work, Kesh sat down to talk about his influences, musical journey and latest song.

Congratulations on the new single! Could you tell us a little bit about the song?

You’re a very well rounded performer, could you tell us more about the instruments you use?

The song initially started off as just a composition with no lyrics, I had been in touch with a Canadian producer called Gagan Singh and we decided to do a Sufi track together. So I had sat down one weekend and composed this song which was the base of Tabla and Harmonium instruments and because I can do both, I had given him the full structure of what I wanted. Then over the course of two years we had been sending each other material back and forth over Skype and we had produced this track.

I’ll start with the Tabla which I played from the age of ten, which is the pure foundation of Indian music.

If you want to become a singer Tabla is the root, so I’m glad I went into that because it created the foundation for me. From a younger age of three or four I was singing away all the time, my dad is also a singer so it started from there. I was also listening to Nustrat Fateh Ali Khan or Ghulam Ali, I couldn’t escape it and that is where my inspiration came from.

Classical music was also always around me, I mean I am Punjabi but I didn’t get into Punjabi music

until much later, so it’s purely been classical music for me.

What drew you to genres of Sufi and Gayaki?

It simply reaches to my soul.

Some people might say Jazz hits their soul or funk but my ‘ruh’ (Urdu word for soul) reaches out to that music. I listen to that music for enjoyment, for happiness, when I’m sad or when I’m down, that music is there for me. Because I’ve grown up around it I can’t escape that, no matter what genre I listen to I will always come back to classical.

What is the background of Sufi music?

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Upcoming Artists Sikandar

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Sikandar is the newest addition to the ever expanding VIP Records.

After recently being runner up on BritAsia’s ‘I’ll Make You Famous’ TV show. His introduction to the industry is produced by one of VIP’s finest Bups Saggu, who is enjoying the recent success of his album ‘Global’ but has not stopped there and has joined with Sikandar to cover a Gurdas Mann classic – "Sajna."

Sikandar is a singer and musician born and bred in Pakistan but is now residing in the UK aged 24, he grew up listening to legendary singers and vocalists like Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Mohammed Rafi, Noor Jahan & Shazia Manzoor including many others and has learnt from them all his life and now is eager to make his mark on the industry and take the first step to becoming an artist himself.

Leading upto the release Sikandar has been very active, already appearing at gigs all over the country and also touring the biggest cities in Pakistan. He was part of the opening season of “I’ll make you famous” which was a huge success on BritAsia TV. Hosted by Dj Sanj, in an Asian X Factor style reality show. Sikandar impressed the celebrity judges and the professionals on a weekly basis. This led to him finishing as runner up to Mani Kaur but Sanj called it “splitting hairs” between the finalists.

Roma Roma is an upcoming female artist, releasing her first single produced by Rishi Rich.

Hailing from Southeast London, she has had a passion for music since childhood and knew that music would always be part of her life. Her passion and talent was quickly spotted by her father, when she first performed live at the age of 11. Since then she has been performing at many private and charity events throughout UK. Roma is a versatile artist who sings various styles of music in Punjabi, Hindi and English.

Juggling between two career options Roma decided that she wanted to follow her creative side and become a professional artist. She recently started training in classical music. Her first vocals were recorded for a Shabad CD, produced by one of the leading music labels in India T-Series.

Saif Adam

Born in Essex on the 5th of December, Saif was brought up in a traditional Muslim family where teaching was the main profession.

Originally hailing from Iraq, they were keen to instill spiritual and Islamic values.

After graduation, Saif pursued a career in the music industry.

This resulted in a series of collaborations with mainstream artists including Ed Sheeran, N-Dubz and X-Factor judge Tulisa Contostavlos.

This fruitful period gave Saif a valuable opportunity to perfect his vocal abilities and song writing skills.

But it was during a life changing trip to Makkah when he realised he could combine his musical talent with his faith. His music could become a new and exciting way in which to connect with his Muslim

brothers and sisters.

Upon his return, Saif began to deeply absorb the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and it was at this point that his life changed forever. Saif's heartfelt aim is to engage the Muslim community both young and old and spread the message of peace, respect and unity.

The debut single ‘Believe’ will definitely strike a chord in all of us. The album is both uplifting and hear-trending.

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NOVEMBER 2014 DESI XPRESS 55

WINNERS OF THE 'BEST LOCAL NEWSPAPER' AT THE ASIAN MEDIA AWARDS 2013

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SINGLE AVAILABLE TO DOWNLOAD NOW!

Sufi is basically reaching out to the power above through your music and your lyrics, Sufi poets for example reached out to their lord through their poetry.

Metaphorically it was about love but it was the love of God, not the love of a woman for instance. So the power of this concept is very deep, but this song is not strictly Sufi and to say it is would be doing the real artists an injustice.

You can hear a bit of Bollywood in the song, a bit of Ghazal and a bit of Sufi so it’s got a rounded vibe.

Your father was also a singer, did he support your career?

Although my father supported

my singing he still wanted me to have a more stable career in something else. I did study engineering at Nottingham University but it was a six year course, I dropped out purely because I couldn’t handle it! I wanted to do something creative and sing. I thought you live once so you have to give it a chance, your 20s are all about doing what you want. I’m just going to give it a shot and if I fail at least I tried, I don’t want any regrets in my life.

Before University were you studying music?

I never studied Western music, I was learning Indian music

as a kid so I was always going to classes. I was travelling to Rochdale on six hour journeys and learning on weekends with my Guruji. So it was a constant learning process and still is, but I dedicated a lot of my time, daily, to Indian music.

Is it important for you to bring this music to the public?

The only way I can answer that is by saying that there are a lot of singers out there who I have met that are fantastic. However they are not releasing any music because they worry the public are not going to receive it well. If they did release music then this

country’s industry would blossom but because there is nothing happening on our side, current artists can run ahead, so my basic purpose is to tell other singers that you can release something.

Even if it doesn’t become number one that’s not the main goal, these songs are slow burners meaning they will be around for a long time and not fade away. So if you listen to it next year or in ten years time it will not be outdated, but with the urban hip hop scene there are new sounds all the time that you cannot keep up with. So I’m reaching out to all the talented singers out there, if you can do it, do it!

Following on from that, what does success mean to you?

Success for me means going to sleep at night knowing that I have done what I have done to the best of my ability. Focussing on the roots is important, I mean if you flower a plant and you just water the petals it’s not going to grow, but if you water the roots then the flower will grow to its best ability.

So it’s the same for an artist, you need to nourish the right parts.

That was a beautiful way to put it, thank you for being with us today and we wish you the best of luck for the future.

OUR WEBSITE: WWW.DESIXPRESS.CO.UK

I’M COMING HOME JAY SEAN LEAVES CASH MONEY RECORDS

More than a decade and 15 million singles sold later, the five times platinum selling artist is a household name, performing sold out shows across the globe and now he's back in the UK. Jay Sean, the UK’s most successful R&B export, last week announced that he has chosen to part ways with Cash Money Records and is preparing to release his latest body of work The Mistress II independently next month, in line with his long awaited return home to the UK. Sean admits that whilst the departure from Cash Money is amicable, there were artistic differences that lead to his decision: “I had and still maintain a great relationship with [Cash Money CEOs] Slim and Baby. They believed in me and my talent and our partnership obviously garnered a lot of pop success. But, it got to the point where I was chasing pop success and 'the smash' when really my heart wasn't in it anymore," he says. "That's not why I got into this game."

SELF-APPOINTED COMMUNITY LEADER IS BACK

Daytime radio DJ, Noreen Khan’s show has been named the most listened to on the Asian Network, an achievement she holds on to from the last time Rajar figures were released.

Talking to DesiXpress, she expressed her delight. “As you know my slot was moved from 3-6pm to 1:30-5pm and in radio land my new slot is a harder one to try and pull in listeners. I knew my boss had set me a major challenge, but I did it! It feels fantastic to be back on top! My passion for radio and my listeners always motivates and inspires me to take on the next challenge.

I'd like to thank my team who work really hard to help put my show together, so a special big hug going out to them.”

Asked her reaction on finding out the news, she added, “I did a few cartwheels then had a huge smile on my face for a while!”

Citizen Khan Returns for Third Series

T

he popular familybased sitcom, Citizen Khan, set in the capital of British Pakistan - Sparkhill, Birmingham - returns to BBC One. The series follows the trials and tribulations of loudmouthed, tight-fisted, selfappointed community leader Mr Khan (Adil Ray) and his long suffering family - wife Mrs Khan (Shobu Kapoor) and daughters Shazia (Maya Sondhi) and Alia (Bhavna Limbachia). Not forgetting Mr Khan's son-in-law-to-be, Amjad (Abdullah Afzal).

When the family arrive back from a trip to Pakistan with Mr Khan’s mother-in-law in tow, Mr Khan is lumbered with looking after her. Then a miracle happens, she

announces she wants to move into a home. When Sam (Sally Lindsay) – the head of a local care centre arrives, Mr Khan is over the moon.

That is, until he discovers the mother-in-law maybe worth a few bob.

With the help of son-inlaw to be Amjad, a ridiculous disguise and a spying mission, Mr Khan tries to stop Naani moving out - at all costs.

DON'T MISS IT!

56 DESI XPRESS NOVEMBER 2014

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With Manish Gajjar Hindi Film Adviser for Vue Cinemas

BOLLYWOOD MOVIE OF THE MONTH

KILL DIL

Director: Shaad Ali Cast: Ranveer Singh, Ali Zafar, Parineeti Chopra, Govinda

Based in Northern India two killers, Dev (Ranveer Singh) and Tutu (Ali Zafar) roamed free.

When they were young they were abandoned by their parents.

So Bhaiyaji (Govinda) took advantage of their vulnerability. He gave them shelter and trained them to kill.

All is normal in their lives until destiny throws free spirited Disha (Parineeti Chopra) into the mix.

What follows is a game of defiance, deception and love.

Kill Dil is a romantic action comedy directed by Shaad Ali of the Saathiya (2002), Bunty Aur Babli (2005) and Jhoom Barabar Jhoom (2007) fame.

The title of the movie has been inspired by the Hollywood flick Kill Bill.

The film marks the return of Govinda in a negative role.

The film stars Ranveer Singh and Ali Zafar in the roles of cowboys whilst Parineeti Chopra is seen as Ranveer’s love interest.

One of the most talked about song sequences in this film is the ‘Happy Budday’ track.

For this shoot 600 real cakes were used which were brought in from bakeries across Mumbai and Pune.

Meanwhile talented Ranveer who amazed us with his rapping skills in a song from his previous film ‘Ladies Vs Ricky Bahl‘ repeats his skills once again in Kill Dil. He will be seen rapping in the musical track Manchow Rap which has also been written by him.

All in all Kill Dil looks to be a fun film with the right doses of action, comedy and musical sequences.

With Govinda making a comeback in a villainous role Kill DIl is definitely worth a watch upon release!

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SUGAR AND SPICE!

NURUN

AHMED'S INCREDIBLE JOURNEY F

resh off The Apprentice, Peterborough born Nurun Ahmed spoke to DesiXpress about her journey before entering the boardroom and her life since. The business woman certainly has a hectic lifestyle as a marketing officer, fashion retailer and full time mother and carer. It’s a wonder how she gets it all done! Nurun reveals her motivation in life, why it’s ok to be the nice person and personal struggles that she overcame to make it to the top.

What made you apply for The Apprentice?

For the past ten years I have been an avid fan of the show and it was always my dream to go on and display my entrepreneurial flair. From a very young age I have always been business minded and I aspired to be like some of the previous candidates. Once I started my businesses I decided it was the right time to go for it.

Also since the show was in its tenth year there was a rumour that the series might end, so it was now or never.

What have you taken away from this experience?

Being on the show was an invaluable experience and it will stay with me for life. The whole process is very rigid and quite callous at times, it’s like being in a pressure cooker! I think I have learnt different skills from many strong candidates who are all talented in their own unique way. Some are quite abrasive and some are quite comical for example. What I have taken from Lord Sugar however is to focus on one thing and to do it really well, so I have fully concentrated on one of my businesses which is

Scarfs Inc, where I sell scarves and accessories. Then there’s the new business which I would have propositioned to Lord Sugar which was Nurun Asian Spice, Bespoke Wedding Planning Services.

Do you feel you have encouraged other Asian women to embrace their entrepreneurial spirit?

Absolutely, one of my main intentions was to show that culture or religion should never hold you back from being a career or business woman. I am both a mother and carer and it has never stopped me. I want to encourage women from all backgrounds, no matter what their personal circumstances, to believe in themselves.

People think you need to have a scholarship or be a rocket scientist to succeed in business which isn’t true, you don’t even need the best education; all you need is drive, determination and a plan. Just utilise all of your resources and you can succeed.

Has your background as an Asian woman has ever affected you in business?

In business no, there are so

many talented Asian women out there who are making waves in the industry so I don’t think our background should affect us. We as Asian women have duties to our family for instance whether as a mother, daughter or wife, that’s a cultural trait we have that we cannot neglect.

Asian women are very level headed, we can juggle all of these duties and wear these different hats (or scarves in my case!) I tried to maintain good morals and virtues on the show by making sure I was a nice person, I do believe that I think with my heart more than my head. Everyone has their own leadership style, Karen Brady is both approachable and personable in her own way, but also very straight talking. So you need a balance of being astute and personable as well.

When did you first become interested in business?

From the age of 12 I was always thinking ahead of the time by coming up with ways to improve certain businesses.

When the Nandos restaurants first opened I actually phoned them to suggest the idea of halal food which they rejected, and then years down the line

" I am just an ordinary woman on an incredible journey..." they actually introduced halal food. So it’s all about thinking ahead in terms of business ideas. Unfortunately I have had adversities in life, at one point I was practically poverty stricken and was a victim of domestic violence. I suffered emotionally, physically and financially.

However I left that marriage and rebuilt my life, I remarried and now have a very supportive husband who helped me turn my dreams into a reality. There is a Culture Couture fashion show in London where I will be a guest speaker on the issue of Domestic Violence.

How do you manage such a busy lifestyle?

I am one of those people who likes to make use of unproductive time. Even if I am walking to work for example, in that time I will make an appointment for my father, check my emails or phone an important contact. I will multitask with all of my important jobs, you have to be productive, efficient and set challenges for yourself.

You won’t believe this but I get into bed well before 11:00pm!

One thing I cannot give up on is my sleep which I love. Most people say you maximise

yourself the most in the morning so my next challenge is to wake up earlier to get more done.

What is the next step for you?

I am concentrating on my next business which is the Bespoke Wedding Planning Services, I have also been in contact with Jo Malone for possible future business. There have been a few projects offered to me and I have been taking my time to see which ones are best, I am open to any opportunities coming my way. My heart goes out to women trapped in abusive relationships so I would also love to make a difference to vulnerable women out there in the future. Whatever I do next is going to be big, Lord Sugar said I am not ready to make the transition from small business to big business, so I am going to set that challenge for myself to make that transition.

You have to defy the naysayers in life, don’t let people say you can’t do it, show that you can do it! I don’t call myself an entrepreneur like Jo Malone or Sir Richard Branson, I am just an ordinary woman on an incredible journey. So watch this space!

READ THE FULL INTERVIEW ONLINE: WWW.DESIXPRESS.CO.UK

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NOVEMBER 2014 DESI XPRESS 57

WINNERS OF THE 'BEST LOCAL NEWSPAPER' AT THE ASIAN MEDIA AWARDS 2013

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NEW

BOLLYWOOD FILM RELEASES

THE SHAUKEENS

Releasing 7th Nov 2014

The film, out on November 7th 2014, is a remake of Basu Chatterjee’s 1982 comedy ‘Shaukeen’ and is directed by Abhishek Sharma of Tere Bin Laden fame. The adventure film follows three middle-aged men, played by Annu Kapoor, Piyush Mishra and Anupam Kher, who venture on a trip to Bangkok, where they meet the sizzling hot Lisa Haydon.

The ever-versatile Akshay Kumar makes a cameo appearance as himself in the feel-good film.

Tipped to become a music anthem, the combination of Yo Yo Honey Singh’s upbeat party vibe and Akshay Kumar’s cool charisma makes for a memorable performance.

INTERSTELLAR With our time on Earth coming to an end, a team of explorers undertakes the most important mission in human history: traveling beyond this galaxy to discover whether mankind has a future among the stars. From acclaimed filmmaker Christopher Nolan, “Interstellar” stars Oscar winner Matthew McConaughey , Oscar winner Anne Hathaway, Oscar nominee Jessica Chastain, Bill Irwin, Oscar winner Ellen Burstyn, and Oscar winner Michael Releasing Caine .The main cast also includes Wes Bentley, 7th Nov Casey Affleck, David Gyasi, Mackenzie 2014 Foy and Topher Grace. Directed by Christopher Nolan, the film is written by Jonathan Nolan and Christopher Nolan.

Emma Thomas, Christopher Nolan and Lynda Obst produced “Interstellar,” with Jordan Goldberg, Jake Myers, Kip Thorne and Thomas Tull serving as executive producers.

KILL DIL The film, out on November 7th 2014, is a remake of Basu Chatterjee’s 1982 comedy ‘Shaukeen’ and is directed by Abhishek Sharma of Tere Bin Laden fame. The adventure film follows three middle-aged men, played by Annu Kapoor, Piyush Mishra and Anupam Kher, who venture on a trip to Bangkok, where they meet the sizzling hot Lisa Haydon.

Releasing The ever-versatile Akshay Kumar makes a cameo v No 14th appearance as himself in the feel-good film.

2014 Tipped to become a music anthem, the combination of Yo Yo Honey Singh’s upbeat party vibe and Akshay Kumar’s cool charisma makes for a memorable performance.

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HAPPY ENDING Presented by Eros International and Releasing Illuminati Films, 21st Nov Happy Ending features producer 2014 Saif Ali Khan in a double role. The film also stars Ileana D'Cruz, Kalki Koechlin, Ranvir Shorey and Govinda in comic roles. Yudi (Saif Ali Khan) is a writer.

He didn't write anything in the last few years. He is caught between finding inspiration and finding love.

Armaan (Govinda) a fading movie star is desperate to save his stardom. He went to Hollywood to get a Bollywood script written in Hollywood style.

His solution? Approach Yudi and ask him to write a film.

Meanwhile his ex girlfriend (Kalki Koechlin) thinks that she is still in a relationship with him after he broke up.

NEW

HOLLYWOOD FILM RELEASES

THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY The Hunger Games: Mockingjay stars Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Julianne Moore, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Jeffrey Wright, Sam Claflin, Jena Malone, Stanley Tucci and Donald Sutherland.

"Mockingjay - Part 1" finds Katniss Everdeen (Lawrence) in District 13 after she literally shatters the games forever. Under the leadership of President Coin (Moore) and the advice of her trusted friends, Katniss spreads her wings as she fights to save Peeta (Hutcherson) and a nation moved by her courage.

HORRIBLE BOSSES 2

Releasing 29th Nov 2014

Horrible Bosses 2 is the follow-up to the 2011 hit comedy Horrible Bosses and reunites Jason Bateman, Charlie Day and Jason Sudeikis as everyone’s favourite working stiffs: Nick, Dale and Kurt.

Jennifer Aniston and Oscar winners Jamie Foxx also reprise their Horrible Bosses starring roles, while Chris Pine and Oscar winner Christoph Waltz star as new adversaries standing between the guys and their dreams of success.

Fed up with answering to higher-ups, Nick (Bateman), Dale (Day) and Kurt (Sudeikis) decide to become their own bosses by launching their own business in Horrible Bosses 2.

But a slick investor soon pulls the rug out from under them.

Outplayed and desperate, and with no legal recourse, the three would-be entrepreneurs hatch a misguided plan to kidnap the investor’s adult son and ransom him to regain control of their company.

Releasing 21st Nov 2014

BEYOND THE LIGHTS

Releasing Starring Gugu 14th Nov MbathaRaw, Nate 2014 Parker, Minnie Driver, Danny Glover and Machine Gun Kelly, Beyond the Lights is the story of Noni, the music world’s latest superstar. But not all is what it seems, and the pressures of fame have Noni on the edge - until she meets Kaz Nicol, a young cop and aspiring politician who has been assigned to her detail. Drawn to each other, Noni and Kaz fall fast and hard, despite the protests of those around them who urge them to put their career ambitions ahead of their romance. But it is ultimately Kaz's love that gives Noni the courage to find her own voice and break free to become the artist she was meant to be.

VISIT: WWW.DESIXPRESS.CO.UK

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WHAT'S ON:

Using classical Kathak dance with puppetry, Amina Khayyam Dance Company presents a story of A Thousand Faces of women who are often caught up within cultural expectations and discriminately attacked because of their gender.

A THOUSAND FACES SOHO ROAD TO THE PUNJAB Punch presents the iconic visual arts exhibition inspired

by Bhangra, music and culture.

Having toured the UK for over five years and recently in the USA, the radical remix returns to Sandwell Arts Cafe – Central Sixth, Sandwell College.

The specially adapted exhibition with an exclusive book launch explores the traditions and heritage of Bhangra and the impact it has had on growth and development of popular music culture to this day.

The exhibition uncovers the worldwide Bhangra phenomenon, showcasing individuals who have championed the UK Bhangra scene with colourful album sleeves, personal photos and rare print for a visual musical journey.

DATE: 22nd Oct 17th Dec 2014 TIMES: 10am - 4pm VENUE: Sandwell Arts Cafe

DATE: Thur 27th November TIME: 8pm TICKETS: £14 (£12) VENUE: Mac Birmingham

The production aims to raise awareness of acid violence. Acid attacks against women are a worldwide phenomenon and are not restricted to any race, religion or region; cases of attacks have been reported in the UK and occur in many countries in the SouthEast Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, the West Indies and the Middle East.

These are the reported cases… however numerous cases go unreported.

Amina Khayyam is a regular visiting artist at mac birmingham, where she has previously presented the experimental Laal Shaari, which combined live art process with Kathak movement and her highly-acclaimed interpretation of Lorca’s Yerma.

She has also appeared at the mac in Sonia Sabri’s Red and zeroculture‘s production of Find Me Amongst The Black.

She is acclaimed for her progressive work within Kathak’s intricate and detailed theatrical movements of abhinaya which is used in A Thousand Faces.

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With its origins steeped in divinity, Bharatanatyam is an ancient traditional artform that reflects the culture of India at its best.

MARGAM

AN AFTERNOON OF BHARATANATYAM

DATE: Sun 16th November TIME: 4pm TICKETS: £10 (£8 concs) VENUE: Mac Birmingham

Created by UK’s über talented choreographers, BollyDyanmix is a new visual experience pushing Bollywood dance to new phenomena.

Together with Manchester’s Cornerhouse, Mac Birmingham presentS this unique exhibition of the work of artist and writer Qasim Riza Shaheen. Shown in two halves across two venues, the exhibition brings together a number of new commissions, and revisits work spanning the artist’s twenty year practice. Both in Birmingham and Manchester, it explores his persisting interest in the city, identity, relationships and those often fleeting moments of intimacy and awkwardness.

Shaheen’s work has at its heart a simple and innate curiosity in those human characteristics which, in one way or another, touch us all beauty, religion, gender and love, the gaze and the guise. The last known pose – the Birmingham half of the exhibition – builds upon his 2010 residency at mac and his fascination with the role of the artist as author, object and protagonist.

Enjoy an afternoon of beautiful Indian classical dance from four highly-talented Bharatanatyam performers: Lakshmi Srinivasan, Artistic Director of Ankura Dance Academy, Raneesha Manoharan who has trained and performed extensively in Malaysia, Magdalen Gorringe who has studied Bharatanatyam since her childhood in South India and Jyoti Lata Parwana who trained under Chitraleka Bolar.

BOLLYDYANMIX

The dance spectacular features 40 of the best dancers who promise the magic of Indian cinema with fresh and stylished ‘naach’ to foot-tapping ‘gaana’.

Come and enjoy the richness of Indian dance in this UK extravaganza!

DATE: Sun 30th November TIME: 5pm TICKETS: £10-£12 VENUE: The Studio Theatre at Library of Birmingham

QASIM RIZA SHAHEEN THE LAST KNOWN POSE DESH - DIGITAL EXHIBITION LAUNCH

DATE: Sun 20th Sep - 30th Nov 2014 TICKETS: Free Admission VENUE: Mac Birmingham

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The exhibition, running until 22 November, is the result of a series of workshops that began in January 2014. Young British Asians from Bristol and the surrounding areas participated in a series of sessions speaking with Asian elders to collect their oral histories and developing skills in animation, music and filmmaking. The result is a collection of digital stories told through mixed media, exploring themes of homeland, family, cultural heritage, and the experience of being British Asian from different generational points of view.

This dynamic digital exhibition of traditional and contemporary interpretations of South Asian heritage, reflects on the multi-faceted nature of British Asian identity and culture in the South West region today.

DATE: Sun 1st November TIME: 12pm VENUE: M Shed (Bristol) To attend the launch, please contact Holly McIntosh: holly@asianartsagency.co.uk or call 0117 929 1110.

PURBANAT YOUTH PROJECT

A group of young people from Small Heath and Yardley East area of Birmingham have undertaken a series of theatre workshops to explore individual young people's creative skills and to develop as a group to make a showcase their skills to the wider audience.

Theatre workshops focused on individuals and groups skills like masks, puppets, designs, music, storytelling, and finally the group familiarized themselves with light, set and music to make their public performance.

Workshop Instructors: Murad Khan and Filiz Ozcan.

DATE: 7th Dec TICKETS: £3 VENUE: The Drum

WINNERS OF THE 'BEST LOCAL NEWSPAPER' AT THE ASIAN MEDIA AWARDS 2013

BOOK REVIEW

Jaspreet's Corner Halloween Scare A fella who loves to eat, He comes along at midnight, And gives little kids a fright, He is quite scary and very very hairy!

You might also find A creature that despises mankind, She is green and has warts on her face, She carries a spare broom, just in case!

Lurking in the streets,

These people are the undead, Sometimes they don’t have a head They groan and walk with a limp, They eat animals and people, Their favourite dessert is roasted wimp!

The lion the Witch and the Wardrobe

This is one of my favourite books, I am sure every child and adult would know this story and most will have seen the film, but the book is magical and is really worth reading. I love that whilst this is not a Christmas story, the Winter scenes and the characters bring a nice feel of

cold. I have always found that a lot of my favourite films are so much better when I read the book first.

My favourite character in this book were Lucy and Mr Tumnus.

I hope this small piece inspires you to read the book !

Lucy and Mr Tumnus Young and imaginative, Lucy is the baby of the family Lucy hopped into the Wardrobe, jumped into Narnia and heard a rustle in the bushes, she gasped. A man emerged from the Snowy Wood. His fur was tree bark brown and without a spec of dandruff, it was flowing in the icy breeze.

His hooves were shiny and polished, like a womans nails, his skin was as soft as a bare babys bottom. Along with him, a ruby red

scarf that hugged his neck and a fiery red umberella which was now as white with snow.

‘You are not to be here’ Mr Tumnus whispered and he pulled her into his homely cave.

Lucy thought ..how could this be ??

This was not and he was not what Lucy expected.

This is a must read although I am sure everyone has read this great story !

59

SHOWBIZ

In Spite of Oceans: Migrant Voices

The 9-year-old Writer Every year on Halloween, In the shadows, a dark figurine, It makes tough children cry, He really is a scary guy!

NOVEMBER 2014

Author: Huma Qureshi

In Spite of Oceans: Migrant Voices explores the individual journeys of generations in transition from the South Asian subcontinent to England.

Poignantly written, and based on real events and interviews, what emerges is the story of lives between cultures, of families reconciling customs and traditions away from their ancestral roots, and of the tensions this necessarily creates. We hear from the young bride from Bangladesh, married to a stranger, who comes to England to navigate life with a man she cannot love; from an Indian father who struggles to come to terms with his son's mental illness and hides it from people he knows; about how a mother and daughter's relationship

Asian Wedding Exhibitions for the biggest & most awaited events in the midlands

was shattered in the clash over the Pakistani traditions her daughter chooses not to follow. Each narrative describes a journey that is both literal and deeply emotional, exploring the hold an inherited culture can have on the decisions and choices we make. At times heart-breaking, at times inspirational, In Spite of Oceans brings to life the pull of the past and the push of the future, and the evolving nature of what we understand as home.In Spite of Oceans will both break and lift your heart.

Its subjects have struggled through personal hardships to emerge with strength, perfectly captured in Huma Qureshi's sensitive writing.

With charm and humanity, this book melts away the torment and grief of living between two cultures and leaves a warm understanding of the immigrant experience.

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH KESH K

TURN TO PAGE 54-55

INTERVIEW WITH NURUN AHMED

TURN TO PAGE 56

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NOVEMBER 2014

WINNERS OF THE 'BEST LOCAL NEWSPAPER' AT THE ASIAN MEDIA AWARDS 2013

FASHION & BEAUTY

THE ASIAN TODAY FASHION Festive Arm Candy It is the time of the year where we get ready to sort out our party wardrobe and gear up for the festive season. We often focus on the glam party dress and tend to forget about the accessories.

A dress would only look half as good unless it is styled with the right accessories. Starting from the jewellery, to shoes to the purse they all have a role to play in creating the perfect party outfit. Well today I will be talking about your arm candy and what are the best high street buys for this year.

Gold Fame clutch from Debenhams

THE BEST OF WILLS LIFESTYLE INDIA FASHION WEEK Follow me on Twitter: @sarakblog

Author: Sarah Khan www.sarakblog.com

This classic gold clutch is sure to add sparkles to your outfit. Gold is a universal colour and goes with pretty much all outfits. For just £20, this is not a bad deal.

Twist Lock Envelope Clutch from Warehouse If you do not fancy glitter and sparkle then this black chic leather-look clutch would be a good option. The high shine and gold lock fastening makes it an apt choice for your party wardrobe.

Tamzin Box Clutch from French Connection This one is all about creating a statement. Be bold and choose this metal box clutch for your much awaited party.

This clutch would look best with black or silver outfits.

Alice Keys Clipframe Clutch from Accessorize Add some more bling and sparkles to your look and go with this glitzy clutch.

Adorned with charms and sparky gems this clutch will add oodles of glamour to your look. It would look great with long evening gowns and maxi dresses.

These were my top picks for this season. I hope you got some inspiration from the above choices. Experiment with your accessories and see what works with your outfit. Festive season gives you the levy of adding bling to your outfits so doesn’t be shy and go all out.

Mandavi Kuashik Twitter : @mandavikaushik Instagram : Mandavi Facebook : /therednotebook Website : http://www.therednotebook.co.uk

• PAYAL SINGHAL

If you’re a fashion lover like me, you would like to know the latest Asian fashion trends - what we should be wearing, watching out for or even buying. If you’re not sure not to worry that is where The Asian Today comes in.

Wills Lifestyle Indian Fashion Week took place in October and it was the perfect chance to check out current fashion trends straight from India. It wasn’t easy but we selected our top 3 favourite collections from this year’s Wills Lifestyle; Payal Singhal

Payal Singhal has to be one of the most talked about designer collections at every fashion show she showcases.

And she didn’t let us down in yet another enticing collection.

Payal Singhal’s collection featured timeless Asian inspired pieces such as, shimmery, gold and cream sarees, lenghas and blazer jackets sprinkled with delicate embellished beaded embroidery. It’s not only classy but practical fashion.

In addition, l was astonished to see an Asian designer featuring various styles for all the different types of

• ROHIT BAL

women and personalities ultimately that’s what makes her different to most Asian designers. For example, you can see the business woman, the sophisticated sister, traditional Indian fashion lover, the modest young lady to the modern chic fashionable girl.

Payal Singhal gives everyday South Asian fashion a new vision, movement and it’s truly inspiring.

Rohit Bal This next designer has won numerous awards for his contributions to fashion

• RABANI RAKAH

in India and with his Wills Lifestyle collection you can clearly see why.

Rohit Bal’s exquisite collection reminded me of the classic Indian princess in the times of the Taj Mahal. We saw fashion combinations we wouldn’t necessarily see on an eastern runway but the Indian designer thought outside of the box and supriased us.

For example, Rohit Bal’s collection featured peplum tops and jackets matched with lenghas. Also usual mixes like capes with sarees, long elegant draped dupattas matched with flamboyant gowns and blazers on

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FASHION & BEAUTY

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N & BEAUTY anarkali suits.

It’s as if the Indian designer took the best of west (design trends) and east (embroidery work) and conjured up royal masterpieces.

You can tell each piece was thought-out - you can’t just put peplum with a lengha and expect it to look show stopping but Rohit Bal does it brilliantly.

Rabani Rakah Where would we be without some dazzling Indian party wear?

Rabani Rakah used more traditional fabrics such as, organza which we are currently used to seeing in the Asian fashion outlets.

Whereas by using neutral

colours such as, creams and peaches combined with gold boarders Rabani Rakah transform the fabric into luxury fashion. I particularly admired the delicate detailing intricately placed and executed perfectly on each saree, lengha or gown.

The combination of layers, fabrics and various elements to tailor the clothing must have been a nightmare for the designers. And if anyone can pull it off in style, its South Asian fashion designers.

Rabani Rakah shows us lots of hard work and attention to detail is the way forward in Asian fashion.

All the designers have a something in common – that ‘WOW’ factor! And that’s what we all need in our wardrobes.

NOVEMBER 2014

61

DAL

GET FIT WITH

D H A L I W A L

Dal Dhaliwal is UK’s first Indian Female Health and Fitness Coach to launch a private fitness gym. She is also a Health and Fitness TV Presenter. Dal has been working in the wellness Industry since 1998.

She will teach you strategies to overcome obstacles and develop a positive mental attitude, and will share with you methods on how you too can follow a healthy lifestyle which includes exercise, correct nutrition and wellbeing. www.bodyperfectpt.com Twitter: @daldhaliwalPT

THE TRUTH ABOUT CELLULITE

• PAYAL SINGHAL

Cellulite is a condition that can make the appearance of the skin look dimpled, lumpy in appearance. Cellulite is a collection of fat that pushes the connective tissue beneath the skin – which causes the changes in appearance of the skin. It can be most noticeable on the thighs, buttocks and stomach and usually occurs after puberty.

Although cellulite can affect box sexes, it is much more common in females and can especially affect women over 35 years old. It can also be seen in slim women. Cellulite is more common in women than men because of differences in the way fat, muscle and connective tissue is distributed under the skin.

Is Cellulite Fat? Cellulite is not ‘normal’ fat. It is the structure of the overlying skin and of the underlying connective tissue that determines whether a given area has a smooth or rippled appearance.

Cellulite may appear to be worse in appearance depending on the amount of body fat proportion in affected areas. However, the thinnest women can also be affected. The reason for this is that while fat deposits do exacerbate the condition, fat itself is not the primary cause. Gender, genes, age, and the amount of fat on the body are all associated with the amount of cellulite you have or how visible it is.

What causes Cellulite?

The real causes of cellulite are not well understood, but there are several theories to the causes; Hormonal factors- Hormones play an important role in cellulite development.

Hormonal changes, such as overproduction of estrogen, sedentary lifestyle, and lack of physical activities are also responsible for the production of Cellulite.

Genetics – Certain genes are required for cellulite development. Genes may predispose an individual to particular characteristics associated with cellulite, such as gender, race, slow metabolism, distribution of fat just underneath the skin, and circulatory insufficiency.

Diet – Over consumption

of saturated fats and sugary foods, carbohydrates, or salt and too little fibre can also lead to greater amounts of cellulite.

Lifestyle factors – Cellulite may be more common in smokers, those who do not exercise, and those who sit or stand in one position for long periods of time.

Clothing – underwear such as tight elastic across the buttocks (limiting blood flow) may contribute to the formation of cellulite.

How can Cellulite be removed?

There are many methods and therapies suggested to remove cellulite or improve the appearance of affected areas. However, none have been supported in the scientific or medical literature. Therefore we do not know how successful any of these methods really are at removing Cellulite.

How can Cellulite be prevented?

Exercise will help Cellulite

in many different ways.

It will help to keep your body fat levels low. The best way to decrease body fat is to eat fewer calories and exercise more.

A combination of proper eating habits, aerobic exercises and strength training are the best things you can do to fight against cellulite. Exercise will also help to improve circulation and muscle tone in celluliteprone areas.

A well balanced diet can help reduce cellulite.

Avoid junk foods and fast foods. Always keep yourself hydrated and drink water throughout the day.

There are a few cellulite treatments and procedures that can improve the appearance of the skin – But none are a proven cure for cellulite. In fact, most of the cellulite ‘creams, potions and solutions’ are little more than expensive placebos. It’s best to save your hard-earned cash!

Got a question?

Tweet @daldhaliwalPT

YOU CAN TWEET DAL YOUR QUESTIONS TWITTER: @DALDHALIWALPT FIND HER ON FACEBOOK: DAL DHALIWAL

62

THE ASIAN TODAY THAI-TASTIC DINNER IDEAS

FOOD & TRAVEL

WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM

NOVEMBER 2014

Food & Travel

BEARDED BAKERS Challenging stereotypes with their love of cooking and religious look, two brothers have come together to create a YouTube channel aiming to inspire the next generation of young male cooks. Qasim Hussain and Kabir Din are two young modern friends who, inspired by memories of childhood cooking with their family, decided that they were going to teach cooking to the wider audience. The Asian Today's Hifzha Shaheen caught up with the brothers.

Tell me about Bearded Bakers.

PR supremo and food blogger Anita Champaneri brings her blog Ms Delicious PR and all things food to The Asian Today.

Bringing all the news from hot restaurants to cool bars and everything in between. blog: www.msdeliciouspr.blogspot.com This month marks the Thai festival of Loy Krathong.

It’s one of the many traditional festivals of Thailand. It is an evening when Thais pay respect to the goddess of the waters by floating candlelit handcrafted rafts as offerings on all the waterways around their kingdom.

The word “Loy” literally means “to float” and “Krathong” means a raft. The rafts are intricately decorated with folded banana leaves, candles, flowers and incense sticks.

Loy Krathong is a very popular festival, because it’s so bright and colourful and the use of incense and candles makes it feels very spiritual.

As with any festival, the food is just as important! Thai food is as popular as ever in Birmingham, with a great selection of restaurants. I think Indians really like Thai cuisine because they do delicately spicy so well.

Celebrate With Sabai Sabai Sabai Sabai in Moseley are celebrating their 10th birthday this month whilst its sister restaurant Sabai Sabai Harborne will be marking Loy Krathong with a special Celebration Tasting Menu.

The Harborne venue is beautiful with floor to ceilings windows and chunky wooden furniture in a big but cosy space.

Having sampled this seven course feast here, you will never have seen dishes from the Far East more elegantly presented, classically prepared or exquisitely flavoured than you do here.

Dishes include monkfish in green curry; lamb chops with garlic and peppercorn; seabass in spicy mango and apple sauce and roast duck in a sweet and tangy tamarind sauce.

The menu is priced at £35 or £55 to include six wine flights.

The Bearded Bakers is about two bearded brothers who can cook, have fun in the kitchen, and sharing our love for cooking.

What we are doing, is putting into practice what we have learnt, and picked up on from recipes, mainly through our mothers, sisters, TV shows, cookery books, and something we may have been inspired by. We also want to show that Asian men, especially practicing Muslims can cook, and want to show the world that Muslim men with beards are harmless.

Reasons why you started a YouTube channel?

The trend on social media is to share pictures of food that you have eaten, cooked, or even seen. We wanted to take this to another level. When either #ChefK or #ChefQ uploaded picture of dishes they had cooked, there was a request for recipes. We thought demonstrating the cookery was better than writing out the individual steps of said cooking. So, we thought we would create a YouTube channel to share our ideas, and use it as a platform to connect to the potential and established amateur cooks out there. The cooking of the man itself is also reviving a Sunnah. Alhamdulillah.

• CHEF KABIR

youtube.com/beardedbakers

Where does your passion of cooking come from?

For #ChefK it stems from his mother. Seeing her spending hours in the kitchen to cook for him and his family, his mother became his inspiration. For #ChefQ, his mother created the love for cookery by baking with him when he was young, such as cookies and cakes. Furthermore, whilst many would watch soaps and TV, #ChefQ and I watch cookery programmes and would dream of creating, and eating the dish. Cooking is a serious passion for both of us, inspired by memories, dishes eaten, and things seen.

Tell me about yourselves. #ChefK is from Sheffield and works with autistic children, and is involved with projects in the local community. He is a proud father to a beautiful baby girl, and likes spending time with friends and family, and also exploring and studying his religion. #ChefQ is head of credit control and finance for a family run business, and I am involved with editing, marketing and decision making for two non-profit organisations propagating traditional Islamic knowledge, and a volunteer for a charity. I Alhamdulillah - am also a proud father to a beautiful baby boy!

• CHEF KASIM

Future plans?

To be honest, there is no real plan for the future, although we are considering adding more "bearded bakers" to our group.

But, because we are relatively new, we will take things step by step, In Sha Allah.

SPORT

Our Top Thai Picks Thai Edge in Brindley Place is hugely successful and popular for their authentic Thai cuisine and friendly service. The menu is vast and the portions are plentiful and I always have the prawn and tom yam soup which is the perfect winter warmer.

Chaophraya in Bullring’s Spiceal Street is set over two floors with an extensive outdoor terrace and a flashy Thai inspired interior. They offer a wonderful selection of authentic dishes prepared in an open kitchen. If you like your restaurants big, bright and sparkly, you’ll love this place.

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INTERVIEW WITH WASIM KHAN

TURN TO PAGE 78

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NOVEMBER 2014

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EBOLA SCREENINGS BEGIN IN BIRMINGHAM AIRPORT

BRITISH AIRWAYS BACKS MOVEMBER

Screenings for Ebola have begun at airports in Birmingham and Manchester for passengers travelling from high risk countries.

• EBOLA: SCREENING AT AIRPORTS HAS BEGUN

Public Health England said airport staff will check those travelling from places such as Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea. Ebola checks started last month in Heathrow Airport before extending to Gatwick and Eurostar.

Over 1,500 people have died from the virus in Sierra Leone, totalling up to 5,000 deaths in West Africa. In September up to 1,000 people arrived from affected West-African countries into the UK. Ebola is spread through bodily fluids, contact with blood or saliva

can spread the deathly virus. The screenings work as follows: • Taking temperatures to spot fever • Asking questions to check for risk • Issuing advice on what to do if passenger feels unwell afterwards A Public Health England spokeswoman said, “It is being undertaken to help ensure individuals arriving from high-risk areas know what to do if they start feeling ill, and can receive expert advice immediately.”

Chief operating officer at Manchester Airports Group, Andrew Cowan stated, “We are working closely with all our partners, particularly Public Health England, who are managing the screening programme to ensure the impact on our passengers is minimised as they travel through the airport.”

“Public Health England initially ruled out screening because the risk of Ebola arriving in the UK was low and would mean screening "huge numbers of low-risk people”.

British Airways is supporting the “Movember” charity campaign by painting its Airbus A319 aircraft with a giant moustache.

The airline is raising awareness for a movement which fights against

Prostate cancer by encouraging men to their facial hair. BA cabin crew member Kyle Patchett, who also proudly grew his own moustache, unveiled the airplane’s new look.

The airline hopes to raise up to £80,000 for Prostate Cancer Charity this year.

Liz Wilkinson, the airline’s head of health services, said, “We’re always delighted to support Movember, it’s a charity that is very dear to our hearts here at British Airways, especially as our former CEO Lord Marshall suffered from the disease.

“As well as raising money, the aim of the campaign is to raise awareness on the importance of early detection and prevention of the illness.”

A spokesman for the airline said it considered several moustache styles for the airplane – including the pencil (a la Errol Flynn), the handlebar (as worn by Joseph Stalin), and the horseshoe (like wrestler Hulk Hogan).

They eventually settled on what they described as the “connoisseur”, similar to the moustache on the face of a Pringles box.

A five meter long faux fur moustache now adorns the front of the plane where passengers can pose for photos with it in return for donations.

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LIFESTYLE

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LIFESTYLE

THE ASIAN TODAY

DAY IN THE LIFE OF

The Art of Ancient Healing:

TOMMY

By: Mita Mistry

SANDHU

Home Remedies for Winter Ailments

Every month we will be bringing you an exclusive insight of a day in the life of an influential personality. Looking at what inspires them, defining the passion they have for what they do and exploring a day of their life.

Meet Tommy Sandhu: Radio Presenter • Property Tycoon • Family Man Radio personality Tommy Sandhu fell into his career by accident after appearing on Blind Date. After impressing producers with his cheeky charm he became the official voice of the BBC Asian Network’s breakfast show. Today, Tommy divides his time between radio, TV, music and property. The family man spoke to The Asian Today to discuss music, food and the day he met Shah Rukh Khan.

Who is your most memorable guest?

What’s an average day in your life like?

04:15

Hopefully we wake up at this time. I take a shower to properly wake me up and then maybe eat a bit of fruit.

04:50

At this time of day there’s no public transport so we are very privileged to have the BBC send us a little eco friendly electric car that picks us up and takes us to studio.

05:30

We normally arrive at the studio then have breakfast in the canteen such as porridge, water or fruit.

06:00-08:00

I play a bit of mellow music to ease listeners in, I look through newspapers for serious topics to talk about or topics to have fun with. We try to make the show different each day with stories.

08:00-10:00

Chill out a bit, have some fun and games on the show..

11:00

I leave to work on my property business and my production company called Thumbs Up Productions.

17:00-17:30

Go to the gym normally twice a week if I can, then pick up Milo from nursery. Food is on the table for the family then I might read and play with Milo.

19:30-20:30

Milo goes to bed and I wind down and maybe watch a soap with my wife.

21:30-22:00

Go to bed, we have to sleep at this time because the show starts so early.

Shah Rukh Khan, he is a phenomenon and I grew up watching him through the 90’s so he is like a part of my life. You don’t realise the heat and buzz around Shah Rukh! There’s just something electric about him. But what you realise about him is that he is super professional, we did a briefing of the show and he wanted to know about the Asian Network and what the interview will involve. He was incredibly funny, charming and smart.

What do you love about being a radio DJ? What I love about radio is it is instant; it’s just you, the microphone and an audience. Because they can’t see you they instead pick up on your energy and your soul. The right radio show can instantly make your day better, so if they like my music and my company then I’m happy. I also get messages from around the planet from places like Dubai, Tanzania, Singapore, Australia and New York. Today I got an email from someone who just tuned in from Arizona, the middle of the desert!

Do you ever take a break?

I do take breaks, but all the things that tire me out are exactly what I want to do like radio, TV, property and my family life. My wife jokes that when I take a break that’s when I feel ill or down. The busier I am the better I am so I will keep going for as long as I can.

Quick Fire Questions: • • • • • •

“

Follow Tommy on Twitter: @TommySandhu

-

What I love about radio is it is instant; it’s just you, the microphone and an audience.

“

Productive • Entertaining • Rewarding

One drink that gets you through the day? Double Espresso One person that gets you through the day? Milo One gadget that gets you through the day? iPhone One song that gets you through the day? Old Skool Bhangra Classics One food that gets you through the day? Aloo Pharanta Favourite time of the day? Early evening with my family

Over eating is very common during the cold dreary winter months when many of us reach out for rich, scrumptious warming food to comfort and lift our spirits. This is ok. For some of us though, our relationship with food is always like this.

Overeating is most often the result of emotional factors such as sadness, anxiety, frustration and low self-esteem to name a few. A very effective way to keep emotions balanced is to practice deep breathing and meditation. By focusing our mind, we can gain control over our emotions and feel nourished and contentment from within rather than seeking short term satisfaction from high calorie foods and lets face it that chocolate binging session was great but was it worth the guilt?

When you feel a binge session coming on, try sipping herbal tea such as peppermint or ginger or chewing liquorice. Both are ayurvedic remedies for curbing appetite.

Sadly, it is also the time of year when pathogens strike leaving many of us suffering from the dreaded sore throat. One of the oldest, simplest remedies is to gargle hot salty water.

Ayurveda recommends the addition of ½ teaspoon of Turmeric to hot salty water. Gargle morning and evening. Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory and is thought to stimulate the body’s natural production of cortisone from the adrenal glands, which will generally help the body to self-heal. Turmeric milk is also very effective before bedtime, boil a cup of milk add ½ teaspoon of turmeric. Another simple remedy is sipping ginger tea with cinnamon and honey; this can be drunk up to three times a day.

To read the full article please log onto our website: www.theasiantoday.com

WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM

TECHNOLOGY

NOVEMBER 2014

65

TECHNOLOGY RISE OF THE PHABLET

THE ASIAN TODAY WINTER GADGETS Summer officially ended last month and we now look forward to the magic of the winter. The Asian Today lists some gadgets that would be ideal for you to keep warm and to keep Jack Frost at bay.

GOOGLE’S NEXUS 6 IS THE START OF A NEW ERA

TOUCHSCREEN GLOVES Gloves with special conductive material woven into the thumb and index finger, so you can tap, pinch and scroll even when it's minus whatever outside. You'll be able to text in the depths of winter, scroll through photos at freezing bus stops, manipulate your satnav when the heater's on the blink.

ELECTRIC BLANKET DOUBLE The Silentnight Comfort control electric blanket has 3 heat settings and warms up in minutes for a snug night's sleep. The ivory coloured double heated under blanket is suitable for all night use, includes an overnight protection mechanism and is fully BEAB approved.

180s PUFFY QUILT & EAR WARMERS Keep the outside of your ears warm whilst also enjoying your music this winter with 180s Puffy Quilt Ear Warmers and Headphones.

Breathability and very comfortable combined with a dual layer of lightweight insulation and faux fur next to your skin.

HEATED MOUSE Enjoy deep heating infrared warmth with improved construction, a smooth metallic finish, easy improved on/off switch, an improved scroll wheel, a longer cord, and when used improved warmth for the mouse hand.

HOT ROD HEATED TRAVEL MUG You take great pains to make sure your coffee is delicious, and, hot. So when it comes to taking your travel mug full of hot coffee for your trip to, what happens? You guessed it. The coffee gets cold before you really get a chance to enjoy it. With a hot Rod Heated Travel Mug, heat your coffee whenever you need to.

Shifting gears from previous years with LG, the Nexus 6 is now manufactured by Motorola. With its curved backing, flowing aluminium trim, and dimpled Motorola branding on the rear, the device borrows heavily from the secondgen Moto X design book. It basically looks like a supersized Moto X. At 6.27 inches tall, 3.27 inches wide, and 0.4 inches thick (159 by 83 by 10.1mm), it will also be the biggest Nexus phone to date. The handset now sports a 5.96-inch display with an ultra-sharp 1440p resolution and a density of 493 pixels per inch. It joins the ranks of the LG G3 and the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 with this

SAMSUNG FILES AGAINST MICROSOFT A Samsung said its collaboration with Microsoft on Windows phones raised antitrust problems once Microsoft completed its acquisition of Nokia's handset business, according to a court filing.

The filing stems from Microsoft Corp's lawsuit accusing Samsung Electronics Co Ltd of breaching a business collaboration agreement.

The lawsuit, filed earlier this year in a New York federal court, says South Korean smartphone company Samsung still owes $6.9 million in interest on more than $1 billion in patent royalties it delayed paying.

Samsung, meanwhile, said the April Nokia acquisition violated its 2011 deal with Microsoft.

PIRATE BAY CO-FOUNDER SENTENCED

A co-founder of the Swedish file-sharing website The Pirate Bay has been sentenced to three and a half years in prison, in what the prosecutor called Denmark's biggestever hacking case.

Gottfrid Warg, 30, also known under his hacker alias "Anakata", was found guilty of hacking into the mainframe of IT provider CSC in Denmark, accessing the Danish Civil Registration System and local police's criminal register in 2012.

"Quad HD" screen, meaning it has four times as many pixels as a 720p HD display.

During an Android Lollipop demo with Google, I was able to spend some brief time with the handset.

The display is bright and vibrant, and the new size can be unwieldy for those with a small grip like mine. At the same time however, it's surprisingly light and the build quality is elegant and solid. In addition, the curved back makes it comfortable to hold.

VP of engineering of Android Dave Burke told CNET that when it comes to the Nexus 6, the question is not, "What is the right size for a phone?"

but rather, "What is the right size of a pocket Internet device?" Indeed, with the device's bigger display, I got the impression that media consumption and productivity became more immersive and engrossing.

With the new update, Android 5.0 introduces a refreshed interface design called Material, which is more colourful, transparent and minimalistic. New animations have been added, notifications are now organized in order of priority and show up on the lock screen, and the Heads Up feature now launches a pop-up dialogue box for your most important notifications.

HTC FORECASTS HIGH SALES Taiwanese smartphone maker HTC Corp said on Friday that it expects revenue in the fourth quarter to reach T$43 billion-T$47 billion ($1.4 billion-$1.57 billion), beating market expectations of T$41.5 billion.

The forecast was also better than the T$41.86 billion revenue in the third quarter, the company said in a statement, without elaborating.

Gross profit margin in the fourth quarter is expected to be between 19 and 21 percent, it said. The gross margin was 22.9 percent in the third quarter.

Earlier this month, HTC said it earned T$640 million in unaudited net profit during the September quarter, well above a T$216.23 million mean estimate of 13 analysts polled by Thomson Reuters.

TESCO UNVEILS HUDL2 A

vailable in a range of eight vibrant colours, hudl2 can be customised with fun accessories to create a personalised look, with over 200 possible colour combinations. From slate black to bubblegum pink, its colourful casing makes it ideal for all ages.

The 5-megapixel rearfacing and 1.2-megapixel front-facing cameras are ideal for video calling, as well as capturing high-quality video and photos. With eight hours of video battery

Supermarket Reveals its Second Generation Tablet

life and 16GB memory,hudl2 is the ultimate portable entertainment hub.

In an industry first, Tesco has worked with The Parent Zone to develop a market leading parental filter so children and parents can use one device safely. The app, which comes preloaded, allows parents to set up profiles for up to seven users. Each of these can be

tailored according to age and suitability, including setting a time limit to predetermine how long their child spends using the tablet.

Tesco launched hudl1 in September 2013, selling over 750,000 devices. It was the fastest selling tablet ever launched at Tesco, with over 35,000 tablets sold in its first two days of release.

66

THE ASIAN TODAY

NATIONAL

CELLAR-BOUND 'SLAVE' AWARDED £100,000 COMPENSATION IN LANDMARK CASE

A

deaf and mute girl treated as a virtual slave and kept in a cellar in Salford after being trafficked into Britain has been awarded more than £100,000 from her wealthy tormentors for "forced labour" after a landmark court case.

The victim was also repeatedly raped by Ilyas Ashar, 85, who along with his wife, Tallat, 69, subjected her to a life of "misery and degradation" from the moment she was brought from Pakistan as a 10-year-old girl in June 2000.

The victim, who is profoundly deaf and cannot speak, was beaten and forced to sleep and work in the cellar of the millionaire couple's five-bed family home in Cromwell Road, Eccles, in Salford.

She was forced to be at the wealthy elderly couple's "beck and call" 24 hours a day, seven days a week for almost a decade.

She was never given any schooling and could not read or write, except for being taught to sign her name by the Ashars so they could claim benefits on her behalf and keep the money.

Though her exact age is

not known, the girl was also sexually abused from prepuberty by Ilyas Ashar.

The couple were both convicted of a series of offences relating to the girl in October 2013 and are serving jail sentences.

The Ashars, who have assets worth more than £1 million, were ordered to pay the girl £101,300.72 under a compensation order made

by Judge Peter Lakin for the forced labour of their victim.

The payment was calculated on the basis of what she would have been paid under minimum wage legislation for working for 12 hours a day, 7 days a week, from 2003 with 10 days off.

After they were convicted, Judge Lakin described the pair as "deeply unpleasant, highly manipulative and

dishonest people" who had shown no remorse.

"If anyone suspects an adult or child in Salford is being abused they can contact Adult Safeguarding on 0161 9096517 or Greater Manchester Police on 101. More information on safeguarding adults is available at www.salford. gov.uk.adultabuse.htm."

MILLION MARCH MAYHEM Crowds Turn Hostile At Bilawal's Attendance

• HEAD OF PPP: Bilawal Bhutto Zardari

A

• GUILTY COUPLE: Tallat and Ilyas Ashar

MIDWIFE WINS NATIONAL AWARD

Trainee-midwife Denise Ahmed was left speechless after finding out she had won Inspirational Student of the Year in the ThinkMoney awards.

“It was a real shock,” the 33-year-old mother of four confessed.

Denise, who has already delivered around 30 babies whilst working at Hillingdon Hospital maternity unit in London alongside studying at university, said, “Every baby is special. I don’t want to forget any of them, so I keep count with a string of

coloured beads at home.”

The trainee realised her wish to become a midwife after meeting the hospital’s longest-serving and recentlyretired midwifes, Seleena Yates.

“I always knew I wanted more from life, and Seleena provided the inspiration as I kept bumping into her each time I had a new baby.

“If I can be half the midwife Seleena was, I would be delighted. Her patience and care are a real inspiration and she sums up what a good midwife should be.”

VICIOUS ATTACK ON SISTER TRIO

a drug addict, ran from the scene with a suitcase laden with electronic gadgets and gold jewellery, having carried out the "vicious and sustained" assault.

Spence, from Harlesden in north-west London has been found guilty of attempted murder and conspiracy to commit aggravated burglary.

Cdr Mak Chishty, from the Met Police said: "The level of violence Spence chose to use was extraordinary, and completely unnecessary for him to steal."

Judge Anthony Leonard QC said Spence could face life in prison for his crimes.

• Awarded: Denise Ahmed

A trio of sisters and their children endured a vicious hammer attack in their London hotel room, Southwark Crown Court heard.

Visitors from the United Arab Emirates, Ohoud AlNajjar, Khulood Al-Najjar and Fatima Al-Najjar, had been staying in adjoining rooms in Cumberland Hotel in Marble Arch when the attack took place.

32-year-old Philip Spence used a claw hammer on April 6th to mercilessly attack the three sisters who had left

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"The level of violence Spence chose to use was extraordinary, and completely unnecessary for him to steal." their hotel rooms unlocked on the night of the attack, in wait of their fourth sister's return Ohoud Al-Najjar, 34, was victim to a brutal and sustained attack from Spence whilst her nine-year-old nephew hid under the sheets in bed next to her.

Despite surviving the attack through which she

lost one eye and undergoing emergency neurosurgery, she has been left with only 5% brain function.

Her two sisters Khulood, 36, and Fatima, 31, who have been medically retired from their job having suffered lifethreatening injuries, said that Spence "took away our futures".

Perpetrator Philip Spence,

protest organised by a UK-based group of Pakistan supporters was forced to disperse when chaos descended amongst the few hundred people that had gathered in the heart of London.

The rally, organised to show support for Pakistan in the on-going situation between India and Pakistan in Kashmir, fell into disorder when the head of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, ascended onto the makeshift stage to deliver his speech before protesters who had travelled from across the UK in the so-called Kashmir 'Million March' from Trafalgar Square to Downing Street.

The crowd quickly turned hostile and expressed their discontent at Bilawal Bhutto's presence at the

rally, with members of the crowd booing, jeering and throwing empty plastic bottles at PPP's chairperson, unwilling to let him speak. Police stepped in to help dissipate the situation and the Pakistani politician was led away under protection.

The rally was forced to end by the police soon after.

A group of angry protesters who had travelled from Derby to participate, said, “This march was to be about Kashmir and for the welfare of Kashmiris. Bilawal has no business being here.”

The march was led by Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry, known unofficially as the former prime minister of Pakistanoccupied Kashmir, and was supported by the British parliamentarian of Mirpuriorigin Lord Nasir Ahmed.

TEACHER TURNS TO TERRORISM

A science teacher from Sharples High School has confessed his plans to join terrorist group ISIS in Syria.

30-year-old Jamshed Javeed was ready to leave for the war-torn country when he was arrested by police in December, who stated that Javeed was part of a larger network of local British people who wished to travel to Syria and fight for ISIS. Javeed revealed to the court how he wanted to join rebel groups fighting the “vicious” regime of President Bashar al-Assad.

He stated in his plea he, “has never supported, and does not support, the aims of Isis as now revealed and understood.”

Javeed was suspended

by Sharples after being arrested in January.

Headteacher Mrs

• GUILTY: Jamshed Javeed

Quesnel said, “There was no evidence whatsoever to link any criminal activity to our school or the wider community and no evidence to suggest that any pupils, staff or the wider community were under any kind of threat.”

Charges against Javeed carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. He will be sentenced in Woolwich Crown Court December 12th.

WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM

INTERNATIONAL

NOVEMBER 2014

67

INTERNATIONAL BORDER BOMB BLAST THE ASIAN TODAY

OH, RATS!

CLAIMS 61 INNOCENT LIVES

A

blast caused by a suicide bomb attack on the PakistaniIndian border killed 61 people on November 2nd.

Responsibility for the attack was claimed by the Pakistani Taliban, who said the attack was in response to the Pakistani army's actions against the Taliban's positions along the Pakistan-Afghan

border.

"I was sitting in my office near the border when I heard the blast. I rushed to the scene and saw scattered bodies, injured men, women and children and smashed cars," a Pakistani intelligence source said.

The bombing took place in a car park in Pakistan approximately 500 metres from the Indian border,

PAKISTANI 'BLASPHEMY' KILLINGS CAUSE UPROAR 43 suspects have been arrested for murdering a Christian couple for allegedly desecrating a copy of the Quran.

The couple, who were reportedly beaten to death and their bodies subsequently burned in a kiln, were identified as Shehzad and Shama Masih.

About 200 people in Lahore, mainly from the Christian community and human rights organisations, protested against the killings in the

town of Kot Radha Kishan.

Prime Minister of Paistan, Nawaz Sharif, said, “a responsible state cannot tolerate mob rule and public lynching with impunity”.

“The Pakistani state has to act proactively to protect its minorities from violence and injustice.”

Allegations of blasphemy, which carry a death penalty in Pakistan, are commonly used in the country to settle feuds or to target members of minorities.

leaving upwards of 70 people critically wounded.

Among the dead were ten women and seven children, and eight members of a single family. General Tahir Javed, the paramilitary forces' provincial director, confirmed that three soldiers had been killed.

No Indian troops were harmed in the attack.

Allegations have been made against Pakistan by India, who accuse the country of sponsoring and encouraging jihadist groups in the region to travel into Indian territory to perform attacks against the Indian army. Pakistan has denied all such charges.

The Pakistani Taliban group claiming responsibility for the attack have indicated that the suicide attack relates more to their fight against

the Pakistan government and has nothing to do with India.

Inspector General of India's Border Security Force guarding Wagah, Ashok Kumar said, "Our side is safe. We are alert, have increased our security, we are in constant touch with district officials and state police".

According to another Indian security official this is the first major attack in Pakistani Punjab in months and he considers an explosion in the IndiaPakistan border to be of a much more serious nature than a similar attack on the Pakistan-Afghan border.

The Wagah border crossing near Lahore is a popular attraction for civilians and tourists alike, where hundreds of people attend the daily parade and flag-flying ceremony on their respective sides of the border.

ABDUL SATTAR EDHI

Foundation, one of the country's largest health charities.

The organisation provides a diverse range of free social services, including a m b u l a n c e s , orphanages and assistance for the elderly and disabled.

Mr Edhi said the raiders had made their way directly to the locker housing the money and gold, the majority of which was entrusted to the foundation for safekeeping, and demanded the key.

The gang proceeded to escape from his residence with the hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of gold, silver and cash.

"I am heartbroken. After

ROBBED O

ne of Pakistan's most prominent humanitarian leaders was left heartbroken after being robbed at gunpoint.

Abdul Sattar Edhi, 86, fell victim to the burglary when a group of armed men raided his home in Karachi, which doubles as his charity's headquarters, whilst he slept.

One of Pakistan's most venerable figures, Mr Edhi dedicated his life to building up The Edhi

A pest control firm has revealed how it exterminated 4,400 rats over two days at a staterun hospital in India with thousands still on the premises.

The firm was hired to tackle the pest problem after hospital equipment was damaged and some patients were also bitten.

According to Sanjay Karmakar, Head of Laxmi Fumigation and Pest Control Service Ltd., the Maharaja Yeshwantrao in Indore, south of Delhi, was still home to over 10,000 rodents.

However, the complex consists of seven buildings across about 10 acres.

Karmakar said, “We have only tackled a part of the grounds so far they are riddled with rodent burrows, at least 1,000 of them. Each would have four to eight rodents, we have not started on the buildings yet, the pest control firm is baiting the rodents with different food each day".

One of the biggest government hospitals in the city, the 400-bed Maharaja Yeshwantrao's outpatient department is visited by almost 1,000 people daily.

BANGLADESHI FUNDAMENTALIST TO BE EXECUTED

The execution of Bangladesh's 1971 war crimes convict and fundamentalist Jamaat-eIslami leader Muhammad Quamruzzaman is now "only a matter of time," the country's top law officer today said.

The attorney general's comments came as defence lawyers said they awaited full judgement of the Supreme Court against Quamruzzaman as they planned to file a review petition.

"We will file a review petition within 30 days after receiving the full text of the Supreme Court verdict," Quamruzzaman's counsel Shishir Manir told newsmen.

everything I have done, I never thought I'd be violated like this inside my own home," Mr Edhi said.

His son, Faisal Edhi, said: "My father is fine, but deeply saddened by this incident. He was tearful yesterday.

It's not about the money or the valuables they took away. But his pride has been violated."

Police are searching for the burglars, with arrests yet to be made.

"After everything I have done, I never thought I'd be violated like this."

“I don’t think there could be any survivors.”

LANDSLIDE ENGULFS VILLAGE Cartoon by: Jas Sansi

A devastating landslide occurred over a tea plantation in Sri Lanka and hopes for finding survivors are lowering.

The death toll is numbered at 100 to a figure as high as 300.

“I don’t think there could

be any survivors,” said disaster management minister Mahinda Amaraweera after visiting the site in Haldummulla, 120 miles (190km) from the capital, Colombo.

The centre said heavy monsoon rains caused 150 houses to be buried in the landslide, covering two miles and engulfing the village.

Children returning from school were shocked to see their homes gone, nearly 300 people including the children had to sleep in the nearby school after warnings of another landslide.

There have been numerous landslides since midSeptember due to heavy rains, this has caused damage to roads with roads in the central districts of Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, and Badulla being blocked due to landslides.

NOVEMBER 2014

68

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#AsianWomenMeanBiz

on Twitter every Wednesday 7-8PM www.asianwomenmeanbusiness.com AWMB MAKE TV DEBUT!

NEXT EVENT:

Stay up to date with all of our events – including two upcoming evening social events in Birmingham and London in early December – on Facebook and Twitter.

AWMB GROWS

AWMB Interns Amy, Taj & Kulwinder

We have taken on 3 interns to join until the end of the year. Taj is our PR & Media Intern, Kulwinder

Rupinder and Panna with Harjap Bhangal MATV Host

T

his was the month we made our FIRST LIVE TV debut! On MATV, Sky Channel 793 with Harjap Bhangal! We had a great response and used

this as an opportunity to share details of our ladies who are doing incredible things in their various industries.

We shared details of our research,

networking events and top 5 tips for business success!

Harjap stressed the importance of our community supporting us and other Asian women who want to pursue business ventures. He has kindly opened up his platform and the show to anyone in our community who wants to go on his TV show and share their business journey.

is Social Media Intern and Amy is our Inspire Intern!

Welcome to our AWMB family ladies!

This is a great opportunity and we would encourage any women reading this to go on his show! It’s a great experience, allows for further awareness to be raised and shows the world what Asian women are capable of. Connect with him on twitter @ HarjapBhangal and mention Asian Women MEAN Business!

NATWEST WOMEN IN BUSINESS EVENT W

e were delighted to be one of the guest speakers at Birmingham's NatWest Women In Business Event.

The guest speaker was Lorely Burt MP for Solihull who has been appointed

by Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, Vince Cable, as Ambassador for Women in Business. Lorely stressed the importance of inspiring and championing more women to enter the business world and the economic benefit

to be had from this. We also heard from Titikssha Dand Shah, owner of Tanushree Collections, who was amongst several other businesses. Her message was 'tough times don't last but tough people do!’ We were also given the opportunity to share our five tips, which we have also posted here for you too! NatWest were also keen to spread the message that Entrepreneurial Spark is coming to Birmingham!

This is a great opportunity for free coaching, mentoring and access to a work hub!

CREME O

n the 28th October, AWMB had the pleasure of attending the 18th Annual Ethnic Minority Business Conference at the Studio in Birmingham.

Monder Ram, Kiran Trehan and their team hosted a great event that covered some of the main themes that ethnic owned businesses face through presentations and discussions.

The key take-away’s were as follows: • According to

Rupinder Kaur Panna Chauhan (AWM B Founder)

AWMB TOP 5 BUSINESS TIPS 1.

2.

3.

4.

Panna & Rupinder at Natwest Women in Business Event

5.

18th Annual Ethnic Minority Business Conference.

Making Diversity and Enterprise Everyone’s Business.

Sandra Kerr OBE – Race for Opportunity – there is no such thing as the glass ceiling in the corporate workplace for women. She passionately shared that she had hit her head on one and took a pneumatic drill to smash it.

Her tip - Get past it! Don’t believe it exists!

• F e m a l e entrepreneurship has increased since 2010, following the recent recession. Go Ladies!

• Finally the main

discussion of the day was around ethnic minority business data and the limitations around capturing accurate information. More so because of the variety of business sectors, diversity within the groups such as gender and country of origin.

A huge well done to CREME for organising such a great event and gaining recognition for supporting and championing entrepreneurs, SME’s, UK banks and business supports

(AWM B Founder)

Follow Your Passion If you do what you love, it won’t seem like work. In fact this will be what gets you out of bed in the morning! We both worked in the corporate world, and although we enjoyed our work, we felt it wasn’t what we truly wanted to do. This is why we joined forces and created Asian Women Mean Business to help empower as many Asian Women to start and grow their businesses!

Write it Down. The most successful people write down their goals. A study was conducted with Harvard MBA graduates where they were asked to ascertain their future goals and plans. 3% wrote them down, 13% had goals but didn’t write them and 84% had no goals. The 13% were earning more than the 84% that didn’t write their goal down, whilst the 3% were earning, on average 10 times more than the other 97% of the class combined! So it literally pays to write your goals down.

Think Big Think Success. Believe that you can achieve your vision. If you don’t believe that it’s possible, how can you expect others to? One of the ways to help you do this is to recognize your self limiting beliefs, where you hold yourself back from achieving what you truly desire. Silence that little voice in your head and just go and do and see what is really possible.

Build a network. As the saying goes, your network is your net worth so it pays to be with the right people. Also when times gets tough, you need to have your cheerleaders in place to spur you on, so get out there and find people who are like minded and will support you and your vision.

Take Action. At the end of the day, you can write things down, tell as many people about your dreams and aspirations, however nothing will change unless you take the necessary action. As the saying goes, actions speak louder than words! When you take action, you will get to see what you are about and what you can actually achieve.

BAME ENTERPRISE SUMMIT

I

The Panel at CREME

groups For more information visit their website: www.birmingham.ac.uk/ research/activity/business/ creme/index.aspx

Asian Women MEAN Business

@A_W_M_B

t was an honour and privilege for Rupinder to be invited as a guest speaker to the Black and Minority Ethnic Summit organised by Government Equalities Office.

Chaired by Baroness Verma, other speakers included: Professor Monder Ram OBE, Sonia Brown MBE, Lorely Burt MP, Anita Bhalla OBE, Sandra Kerr OBE, Jagdeep Rai, Director, Corporate Banking, Barclays Bank &

@A.W.M.B

Rupinder speaking at BAME Enterprise Summit

Denis Woulfe, Vice-Chair, Deloitte & member of the Women’s Business Council.

Hosted by Barclays this was brilliant morning of debate, speakers and collaboration.

info@awmb.co.uk

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BUSINESS

THE ASIAN TODAY

69

BUSINESS

THE GROWING BLACK COUNTRY

BY NINDER JOHAL

SUZANNE VIRDEE TO COMPERE IAB DINNER A well-known face on local television is to compere the Institute of Asian Businesses (IAB) annual dinner and awards on 29 November at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham. Suzanne Virdee, perhaps best known as the main copresenter on BBC Midlands Today and a regular face on BBC Breakfast news, will be presenting the two main guest speakers, top industrialist Lord Paul of Marylebone and leading entrepreneur Hussein Lalani at the International Convention Centre

NOVEMBER 2014

I

n 2010 the Government set up Local Enterprise Partnerships designed to let local businesses influence the spending of monies in their locality. The boards set up to oversee this spend were comprised of local authority leaders and local leading businesspeople, a true public and private partnership.

The partnership work of the Black Country LEP and our targeted approach to assisting business growth is making a difference writes Ninder Johal, LEP Board Member leading on perception and communications.

The competitive strengths of the Black Country are getting through to Westminster.

In recent months we have welcomed the Prime Minister David Cameron, Business Secretary Vince Cable and Skills Minister Matthew Hancock.

Two weeks ago Culture Secretary Sajid Javid was here to launch £12m investment to ensure 98% coverage for high speed broadband by 2017.

Ministers want to be associated with our successes, recognising we have the right strategic approach, with business growth from the high value manufacturing base. When David Cameron announced the Black Country Growth Deal, he wrote an article for the Express & Star saying “Made in the Black Country, Sold around the World isn’t just a slogan, it’s a reality.”

Recent indicators demonstrate that perceptions of the Black Country are moving in the right direction as investment increases.

Foreign direct investment in 2013/14 created 200 new jobs

and safeguarded 650 jobs.

Entrepreneurial start ups saw the Black Country become the top LEP area for business start-ups growing to reach £1m turnover in three years.

The Black Country Enterprise Zone is one of the best performing in the country, with major investment from JLR in their UK engine centre and new facilities for Moog, Eurofins and ISP at i54.

The visitor and cultural sectors are growing in economic importance, in 2013 visitors increased by 500,000 to 25 million, generating £825 million revenue and creating 550 new jobs to total 12,000 full time equivalent jobs in the sector.

The Black Country City Deal with Government built on the history and high performance of Black Country manufacturing and supports the growth of high value manufacturing particularly in the automotive and aerospace sectors. The City Deal funded the Growth Hub to help Black Country manufacturing SMEs with a single point of contact for advice and support and bespoke programmes.

The Black Country Growth Deal secured Government investment of £35 million in 2015-16, with approval for 14 of 16 projects we submitted in the LEP’s Strategic Economic Plan. 13 projects will commence in 2015-16 and there is provisional funding for two more projects in 2016-17.

As part of the Government’s commitment to the Black Country LEP, it has provided an indicative award of a further £103 million of funding for the next six years.

HS2 WILL EARN £1.3 BILLION A YEAR FOR BIRMINGHAM

event on 29 November.

As well as hosting events, Suzanne is now working freelance as a producer and presenter, media trainer and crisis management consultant.

She also presents corporate videos and is a voice over artist.

Speaker, Lord Paul, 83, is chairman of steel and engineering empire, the Caparo Group, which has its major regional office in Oldbury and a technology division on Wolverhampton Science Park.

High speed rail will create 14,000 jobs in Birmingham, provide space for 2,000 new homes while contributing £1.3 billion a year to the local economy, a government minister told an audience of business people in the city.

Robert Goodwill, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Transport, was speaking at a dinner organised

by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce at the ICC. He said, “Here, the Local Enterprise Partnership has begun the process of developing its own growth strategy for Curzon Street and the interchange station at Solihull.

The government is providing £2.5 million to speed up this work.”

RAZA ULLAH SAMAR BA (HONS) MBA FCA

www.rusand.co.uk rus@rusand.co.uk

Tax free expenses for employees When an employee travels for business purposes, their employer can pay them tax and NIfree travel allowances at HMRC’s pre-set flat rates.

These were introduced in 2008 to help reduce the redtape and administrative work involved in declaring travel expenses reimbursed on P11D’s and self assessments.

The benchmark subsistence rates are: • £5 for breakfast if the business journey starts before 6am • £5 if the employee spends more than give hours away and buys one meal • £10 if the employee is out for more than ten hours and they buy two meals • £15 if they are out beyond 8pm and buy an evening meal The maximum payment an employer can make per day is £25 and these rates have not been increased since they were introduced six years ago despite inflation running at around 3% per year.

An employer can also reimburse an employees’ mileage if they use their own vehicle for business travel. HMRC’s rates for mileage are 45p per mile for the first 10,000 miles, and 25p per mile thereafter.

Professional fees and subscriptions can also be reimbursed tax and NI-free if the employee has registered, obtained a licence or become a member of a professional organisation and HMRC have approved the organisation they are a member of.

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PROPERTY

PROPERTY

THE ASIAN TODAY WE ARE MOVING

HOUSE SEEKERS CONSIDER MOVING ABROAD FOR AFFORDABLE HOMES

A

fifth of disillusioned house hunters in the UK would consider leaving the country due to the cost involved in getting on the housing ladder.

The United States is the most popular location with 31% saying they would consider moving there, according to research from comparison website Gocompare.

Some 29% would consider moving to Australia and 20% to New Zealand with men more likely than women to consider a move overseas while those aged between 18 and 24 years old were most keen to leave the UK. Overall the most popular step to get on the property ladder is the government’s flagship Help to Buy scheme with 30% saying that is their

preferred option but 20% willing to move abroad.

The poll also shows that 15% would consider buying with friends, 14% would look at buying a micro home, 13.5% a static caravan or park home, 12% with their parents and 12% with other family members such as siblings.

‘A lack of affordable housing has resulted in a property market that is closed off to an increasing number of would-be homeowners. As such, it’s hardly surprising that many people feel like they may have to take some rather drastic steps to own a home,’ said Matt Sanders, spokesperson for Gocompare. com Mortgages.

‘While shared ownership, settling for small or alternative forms of accommodation, and even getting on a plane to another country are being mulled over as options for many, it’s also encouraging to see from our research

that people are actively considering making use of the Help to Buy scheme. The majority of people who have applied to the scheme so far are first time buyers, but it’s open to all borrowers,’ he pointed out.

‘If you’re actively looking to buy a home, it’s well worth seeking advice from a qualified, impartial mortgage broker, who can give you an idea of what you can afford and the options available to you,’ he added.

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sales

£6 BILLION SPENT ON PROPERTY UPGRADES

N

early a third of UK home owners are looking to carry out work on their home in the next three years, with up to £6 billion in projected works planned annually over the next three years.

According to a new study from the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) over a million home owners (1,050,000) are looking to build extra space to accommodate grown up children who can’t afford to leave home.

Families up and down the country are seeking

lettings

to be more creative with the space in their property with 22% of home owners investing because of a property plateau which sees them unable to afford to move in to a bigger property despite having a growing family.

Almost 40% of home improvements are set to be major refurbishments, including new kitchens, new bathrooms and home extensions, while smaller works such as loft conversions and conservatories account for 38%.

mortgages

SOLD OLDKNOW ROAD, B10

OLDKNOW ROAD, B10

BRYANT STREET, B18

WASH LANE, B25

End terraced, two bedrooms, two reception rooms, upstairs bathroom, split rear garden.

Energy Performance Rating is 36/34

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Mid Terraced, three bedrooms, two reception rooms, kitchen, downstairs bathroom.

Mid Terraced, Three Bedrooms, One Reception Room, Downstairs Bathroom.

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Price: £79,950

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Energy Performance Rating is 13/26

ROSEDALE ROAD, B25

Corner Plot, Three Bedrooms, One reception rooms, Bathroom downstairs

Price: £128,500 STARBANK ROAD, B10

DENVILLE CRESCENT, B9

Mid Terraced, Three Bedrooms, One Reception Room, Double Glazing, Central Heating, Off Road Parking

Mid Terraced, Three bedrooms, one reception room, downstairs bathroom.

Price: £109,950

Price: £109,950

NORTON CRESCENT, B9 End Terrace, Three Bedrooms, One reception room, upstairs bathroom.

One Reception Room, Downstairs Bathroom

Price: £119.950

HEYBARNES ROAD, B10 Mid Terraced, Three bedrooms, One Reception Room, Downstairs Bathroom

Price: £119,950

Cityends are now in receipt of an offer for the sum of £122,500 for 181 Aubrey Road, Birmingham, B10 9DJ Anyone wishing to place an offer on this property should contact: HOB MOOR ROAD, B10

SOMMERVILLE RD, B10

Semi detached, three bedrooms, one reception room, downstairs bathroom, off road parking.

Workshop for SALE, yard to rear, two additional units to rear, one bedroom flat above

Price: £127,950

Price: £149,950

MARCHMONT ROAD, B9

Semi detached, three bedrooms, two reception rooms, upstairs bathrooms, off road parking

Cityends, 546 Hob Moor Road, Birmingham, B25 8TN, Tel: 0121 784 3060 before exchange of contracts.

546 Hob Moor Road • Yardley • Birmingham • B25 8TN | T: 0121 784 3060 • F: 0121 784 3080

Price: £159,950

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PROPERTY

NOVEMBER 2014

HELP TO BUY SCHEMES ATTRACTING

IMF NOT CONCERNED ABOUT DUBAI PROPERTY PRICES T

he International Monetary Fund (IMF) has announced that it is no longer concerned about a property price bubble in Dubai.

According to Masood Ahmed, head of the IMF's Middle East and Central Asia Department, price growth on the emirate has moderated considerably.

He said that Dubai authorities had taken steps to limit speculative buying and along with mortgage curbs the market is now much less likely to see a spike in real estate values.

However, he said there were still areas that needed to be watched, and that real estate projects needed to be sequenced and carefully managed to avoid encouraging excessive risk taking by government related enterprises.

The IMF had previously warned that rapid rises in Dubai real estate prices, which earlier this year were in some cases a third higher

than they were 12 months previously, could lead to another bubble and then a crash in the UAE emirate.

A report by property consultants JLL last month found residential rents and sales prices rose 2% and 1% respectively in the third quarter compared to the previous quarter, slower than the 3% and 6% recorded in the second quarter of the year.

Between June and August 2014, prices in some of Dubai's most popular areas fell by almost 4% according to a Mashreq Bank report.

Jumeirah Park saw prices fall by 3.5% the largest of the declines, while Greens saw a decline of 3.1%, the Springs and Meadows dropped 3.4%, Arabian Ranches 3.3%, Jumeirah Village 2.6% and JLT 0.9%.

Dubai Marina saw the smallest drop with prices declining just 0.2%.

Meanwhile, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)

71

STRONG SUPPORT N

ew figures show the UK government’s flagship Help to Buy scheme is helping more people onto the property ladder and getting more homes built.

The Help to Buy schemes have created over 54,000 home owners in England with over 39,000 households buying new built properties through the equity loan and NewBuy options, and 15,000 households buying through the mortgage guarantee.

A further 3,400 new homeowners have been created in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland through the Help to Buy mortgage guarantee scheme, Housing Minister Brandon Lewis has announced.

A breakdown of the figures show that around eight out of 10 sales went to first time buyers and as a direct result thousands of new home owners were created and private house building starts rose by a third.

House building has climbed to the highest level since 2007, construction output has seen the sharpest expansion for eight months, and companies are now taking on workers at

prices continued to rise.

Between June and August, prices rose by 3.2%, bringing the overall annual increase to 15.2%.

Mohamed Alabbar, chairman of Dubai's biggest real estate developer Emaar Properties, said he welcomed the slowdown in the emirate's property market and vowed to keep supplying new homes to help hold prices at 'a reasonable level'.

'In 2013, things went crazy because supply was limited.

For me as a long term developer, this spike scares me, so I'm glad people are saying the market is cooling down. I think that is healthy,' he said at the launch of the first phase of a new high end residential development called Dubai Creek Harbour, a joint project between Emaar and Dubai Holding, the personal investment vehicle of Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum.

the fastest rate since 1997.

‘The figures clearly demonstrate the continuing success of the Help to Buy in supporting creditworthy, hardworking people who want to buy a home of their own. Over 54,000 new homeowners have now used the schemes as a valuable alternative to the Bank of Mum and Dad, enabling them to buy with a fraction of the deposit they would normally require,’ said Lewis.

‘But it’s also got Britain building and since the scheme’s launch private house building starts has increased by a third,’ he added.

Sales of new build homes have been strong across the country. The highest number of equity loan sales were in Wiltshire with 603 sales, Leeds with 559 sales, and Central Bedfordshire with 499 sales and 20 local authorities have all achieved over 300 sales.

The average price of a home is below the national average at £210,000 under the equity loan and £153,000 under the mortgage guarantee.

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TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719

PROPERTY

MORTGAGE BURDEN ON RETIREES admit they have no way of bridging the gap.

Another solution for people who have no idea how they are going to clear the mortgage or who are facing the decision to have to sell a home they do not want to part with could be to use equity release to clear the debt.

‘Being saddled with mortgage debt well into your retirement is far from ideal as it means keeping an eye on the coffers when you should making the most of life,’ said Jeff Bromage, chief operating officer, Saga Personal Finance.

‘Millions of British home owners have been hit hard by underperforming endowments.

Thankfully, there are options available. A growing number of people are

PRIVATE RENTAL PRICES IN BRITAIN UP BY 1%

P

rivate rental prices paid by tenants in Great Britain rose by 1% in the 12 months to September 2014, the latest figures from the Office of National Statistics show.

A regional breakdown of the figures show that

rental prices grew by 1% in England, by 1.4% in Scotland and by 0.2% in Wales.

Since January 2014, the annual rate of change in Wales has fallen below that of England and the Great Britain average. The annual growth rate in Scotland continues to be higher than both England and Wales.

Rental prices increased in all the English regions over the year to September 2014, with rental prices increasing the most in London with growth of 1.5%.

Average asking prices in the UK residential market stabilised in the third quarter of 2014 after nine months of consistent growth, according to the latest figures.

The average asking price rose by just 0.85% in the quarter but despite this small increase, the average asking price was the highest on record at £265,545. turning to equity release as in order to avoid selling their home. Selling and moving is probably the least-favoured

POSITIVE OUTLOOK FOR BUY TO LET LENDING I

ntermediaries’ are positive about their future levels of mortgage business over the next year, according to the latest quarterly intermediary survey.

On average, advisers expect to do 6% more overall mortgage business in the fourth quarter of this year compared with the third quarter, up slightly from an

average predicted quarter on quarter increase of 5% in the second quarter, according to the survey from buy to let lender Paragon Mortgages.

In terms of levels of buy to let mortgage business, advisers expect to see a 3% average increase over the next 12 months, which is unchanged from the level recorded in the second quarter of the year.

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option for many facing a shortfall, as their home is so much more than bricks and mortar.

PRIVATE RENTAL PRICES INCREASE

P

rivate rental prices paid by tenants in Great Britain rose by 1% in the 12 months to September 2014, the latest figures from the Office of National Statistics show.

A regional breakdown of the figures show that rental prices grew by 1% in England, by 1.4% in Scotland and by 0.2% in Wales.

Since January 2014, the annual rate of change in Wales has fallen below that of England and the Great Britain average. The annual growth rate in Scotland continues to be higher than both England and Wales.

MILLION POUND PROPERTY HIGH The number of property sales worth at least a million pounds in the UK is at a record high, according to latest research from Lloyds Bank.

There were 6,143 million pound property sales in the country in the first half of 2014 which is equivalent to 33 transactions everyday over the period.

The 6,143 million pound property sales in the first half of the year represented a 46% increase compared to the same period in 2013 when sales totalled 4,198.

Indeed, million pound home sales have grown by 345% since the first half of 2009, when sales in this market segment were at their lowest point in the past decade.

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of £49,000 and a fifth in their 70s are still paying off their mortgage, new research has found.

Overall more than 900,000 people in their 70s still have an average mortgage bill of some £38,000 and that means the over 70s are saddled with an extraordinary total mortgage debt of £35.2 billion, according to the study

by Saga Personal Finance.

And for 6.3 million over 50s with an interest only mortgage who had intended to pay it off with an endowment policy, the outlook is not good with two thirds saying their underperforming endowment will not foot the bill.

Indeed, some are having to contemplate selling their house to make up an average shortfall of more than £42,000 and a third of over 50s, would need to sell their house to make up the shortfall, according to Saga’s research.

Two thirds of over 50s have made alternative plans to pay off their mortgage, often using a combination of options. A third say they will dip into their savings, 22% say they have been making capital repayments to reduce the debt, 18% will use other investments to make up the shortfall and just over one in 10 say they have extended their mortgage to give them extra time to pay it off.

However, more than one in 10, some 1.7 million people,

SAL

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IN THE FAST LANE WITH THE ASIAN TODAY

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FITTED AS STANDARD THE NEW PORSCHE 911 GT 3

THE MOST DANGEROUS ROAD IN BRITAIN

B

ritain's most dangerous road has been named in a new report.

Safety-first motorists may well wish to set their journey planner far away from the 12-mile A285 stretch linking West Sussex's Petworth and Chichester.

That's because nowhere else in Britain is more consistently risky, according to the Road Safety Foundation's (RSF) How Safe Are You On Britain's Roads? study.

On this stretch alone, the number of serious and tragic accidents has jumped by 16% between 2007 and 2012. The foundation claims more action needs to be taken to reduce this worrying toll, with only

"insufficient" measure made so far.

Second behind the south-coast road was Glasgow's 10-mile A809 section, with Montrose's eight-mile A937 stretch named the third most dangerous?

Other roads which motorists should be wary of, the study suggests, are Lincolnshire's A18 linking Ludborough and Laceby (fourth), Lancaster's A6 (fifth) and Wakefield's A61 (sixth).

The foundation made a league table of high-risk routes which have seen no or negligible difference in accident rates and/or which have experienced substantial rises in the amount of accidents.

T

he limit is apparently the most exhilarating place to be these days. The final square centimetres have yet to be explored here. This may be where others turn back but, for Porsche, it is only just the beginning – the start of a journey towards new sporty destinations. Indeed, two hundredths of a second are worlds apart, especially in the new 911 GT3. The Asian Today, takes the 911 GT 3 journey.

The first item on our journey checklist is an engine that delivers greater power, drives faster and maintains composure even in the red zone. The innovative high-revving flat-six engine of the new 911 GT3 peaks at 9,000 rpm and exploits its 3.8-litre capacity to generate a power output of 350 kW (475 hp).

A glance at the stopwatch reveals 3.5 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h. This makes the new 911 GT3 an even faster sprinter than its predecessor – by point six of a second to be precise. In motorsport, that’s half an eternity. Top speed isn’t reached until 315 km/h.

While speed can propel you to the limit, it isn’t enough to keep you there.

There has to be plenty of potential kept in reserve for every corner. Direct with no detour. Safe with no hesitation.

The core competencies of Porsche were exactly what was needed, as well as the imaginativeness of their engineers.

The result is a chassis that has been adapted specifically for the racetrack and, with rear-axle steering fitted as standard, delivers increased agility even

on everyday journeys.

For the first time, 7-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) is fitted as standard, with short ratios designed exclusively for the 911 GT3. The shift throws of the gearshift paddles on the steering wheel are even shorter and gear changes are even more dynamic so as to provide even better acceleration.

The rear of the new 911 GT3 is 44 mm wider than that of the previous model. In addition, the track at the rear axle has been widened by 31 mm, which improves lateral dynamics. The addition of 100 mm to the wheelbase has significantly increased driving stability. Fitted as standard, Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) helps to ensure even greater stability when cornering, while rear-axle steering provides extraordinary agility and more dynamic overtaking manoeuvres on the racetrack.

All in all, the new 911 GT3 is a precision instrument, giving you everything you could need to push your own boundaries. Indeed, part of the brief for Porsche’s engineers was to build a manageable sports car that feels at home on the racetrack, yet can be taken to brand new sporty destinations by drivers who aren’t able to tackle the Northern Loop of the Nürburgring day in day out.

The new 911 GT3 preserves tradition for the future – a principle that the 911 has embodied for 50 years. It aims to push the boundaries of what is possible, on each new day.

SIX IN 10 'STILL DISPLAYING TAX DISC'

B

ritish motorists are begrudging to end their 93-year-old love affair with the humble car tax disc, new research suggests.

Over six in 10 drivers are yet to say goodbye to their paper discs, continuing to display them on their windscreen, according to a poll of 2,004 drivers by Populus.

This is despite new

legislation which came in on October 1, no longer requiring motorists to show their proof of payment for road tax.

For decades buying and displaying a paper disc has been as second nature to car owners as taking out car insurance or breakdown cover. Over one in three drivers (34%) claim they know about the latest changes but

can't bring themselves to take the disc out.

A further one in 10 were unaware of the new lack of obligation to display.

The new rules have been introduced because police now simply use motorists' number plates to check with a computerised DVLA database to see if road tax is paid up.

74

NOVEMBER 2014

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76

NOVEMBER 2014

THE RAMS AND THE WOLVES Rival Punjabi football fans join together in celebration

The Punjabi Rams will be joined by the Punjabi Wolves when the Derby County take on fellow promotion chasers Wolverhampton Wanderers at the iPro Stadium. After the match the supporters will meet in the Sportsman, in Burton Road, Derby to make merry.

Punjabi Wolves Supporters are an established group of Wolves followers from the Indian region Punjab, who collectively travel to games to support their team.

The newly formed Punjabi Rams meanwhile are looking to emulate the Wolverhampton group's success.

Founding supporter Pav Samra sees it as a celebration of sport and an opportunity for fans to socialise and enjoy themselves regardless of who they support.

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THE ASIAN 2014 CRICKET AWARDS DISCOVERING AN UNTAPPED WEALTH OF TALENT

Written By: Manisha Tailor Twitter: ManishaTailor1

M

OUT OF RETIREMENT

The former Middlesex and England batsman, Mark Ramprakash, has been confirmed as the new England batting coach, succeeding Graham Gooch. He will work across all three formats of the game, starting a one-day tour of Sri Lanka later this month.

Ramprakash played 52 Tests between 1991-2002, averaging 27.32.

Paul Downton, managing director of England Cricket, said, “I have no doubt he will continue to have a positive impact as we begin an exciting winter of cricket.”

Woman in Cricket Award Winner Salma Bi

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SPORTS

The Founders Special Recognition Award Winner Wasim Khan MBE

any cricket professionals past and present, dignitaries and those from the local community graced the home of cricket, Lords Cricket ground, on October 7th for the inaugural Asian Cricket Awards 2014. This prestigious event, sponsored by Talk Home Mobile, brought together not just cricket lovers, but those who have a genuine passion for supporting British Asians in sport.

Co-founders of the Talk Home Mobile Asian Cricket Awards, Baljit Rihal and Jas Jassal BEM, spoke of the relevance of such awards in providing a pathway into the professional game. “The Asian community currently makes up more than 30 per cent of all participation in the game of cricket throughout the UK, with a high percentage involved at recreational level.

More can be done by the authorities and county boards to engage in programmes to establish structured pathways into the professional game, but we’re very encouraged by the ECB’s commitment to these awards – and we believe we can collaborate in further engaging with the Asian community as laid out in their strategic plan”.

He acknowledged the support provided by sponsors and cricket governing bodies in aiding the success of the event.

“The support we have received from our headline sponsor, Talk Home Mobile, The ECB and The Club Cricket Conference in putting together this event has been tremendous. It is a positive statement of their intent and commitment to the British

Behind The Scenes Award: Amjad Aziz

Asian community.”

Former England captain and managing director of the ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) hailed the day as fantastic in spreading the word of the sport. “To see the wonderful passion that the Asian community brings to cricket, as I’ve seen many times when I’ve been overseas playing in India and other parts of the world, is fantastic. The Asian Cricket Awards has been a fantastic day for cricket. To see a community spreading the word of cricket is fantastic.

It doesn’t matter what community, we try and support the game.”

England and Worcestershire’s Moeen Ali walked away with the ‘Player of the Year’ award, and quite rightly deserved mentioning the significance the role volunteers play in developing young people. “It doesn’t get any better than this.

I feel very proud and privileged to be here. I felt honoured to be in the top four for this award, and I am very proud to be the first guy to win the Asian Cricket Awards Player of the Year. Volunteers play a huge role in cricket – if it wasn’t for them, most of us wouldn’t be here today, so it is great to see them being honoured”.

Nasser Hussain OBE, former England captain, now presenter on Sky Sports, was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award. “It is a great honour and privilege to receive this award. I have always been very proud of the Asian part of my heritage, and my Dad would have been extremely proud to see me win an award like this.”

Professiona Player of The Year: Moeen Ali

Grassroots in any sport is extremely valuable and the reason for this, in my opinion, is 2-fold. Firstly, It helps build a foundation for participation in the respective field; secondly it enables community cohesion which in turn can have a significant impact on social and psychological development for young people and adults alike.

This is the very reason I feel awards like this are crucial, as they really do highlight those taking part at grassroots.

“Grassroots cricket is all about pathways, finding out where the gaps are, getting a strategy in place. Our aim is to create a link and get our promising talents into the main arena like Lord’s, the home of cricket. I am speechless, really touched and overjoyed.

I would like to thank everyone for their support.” (Gopi Raj, England Tamil Cricket League and winner of the grassroots award).

We are all aware that Asian women in sport are still very much under-represented.

Although participation at grassroots level has increased over time the number of British Asian women within the professional game, generally, is very low. The Asian Cricket Awards recognise the importance of women role models and young Simran Panesar, winner of the amateur player of the year award, is a fine example of what can be achieved with determination and commitment.

“I’m so proud I have got this award. It just shows that hard work does pay off. I’m from Birmingham. I got into cricket because my younger cousin was

Coach of The Year: Qasim Ali

playing for a club and they wanted girls to form a team. From performing for my club they put me into county and then from there I’ve developed from under15s to under-19s and then the senior Warwickshire ladies team. This award has given me more of a reason to go out and coach younger children and, as I’m a female, I hope I will be a role model for a lot of girls younger than me”. (Simran Panesar, Warwickshire U19s).

Worcestershire County’s Salma Bi was awarded the ‘woman in cricket’ title.

“This is amazing, a really special feeling.

It’s the drive and the passion that I really enjoy from playing cricket. It gives you something positive to work hard for”.

Having role models to aspire to is imperative to the cause, and one woman that comes to mind for me is Isa Guha (IPL TV presenter, former England bowler) who was honoured with the media award.

Amateur Player of the Year: Simran Panesar

NOVEMBER 2014

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SPORTS

“Having an awards centred around British Asian contributions will attract attention throughout the country. These awards are important to recognise the thousands of men and women in this country who give their time to developing and attracting interest in the game. The support from the ECB will also encourage links to form between these communities and the overall governing of the game in this country, rather than being isolated.

Furthermore, it will also help to discover an untapped wealth of talent, many of whom could go on to play for England.”

Isa Guha is an example of a woman who began her journey, like many, at grassroots. But her sheer determination, resilience and work ethic has seen her not only represent county level, but play international cricket for her country, England.

Isa epitomises strength in character and sincerity and is a true role model for British Asian women in sport.

Cricket Club of the Year: London Tigers

“It is a great honour and privilege to receive this award. I have always been very proud of the Asian part of my heritage, and my Dad would have been extremely proud to see me win an award like this.”

Nasser Hussain Ex Captain of England Cricket Team

SILVER SUCCESS FOR NAJMUL

77

SACHIN TENDULKAR:

THE ISL IS ONLY GOING TO GET BIGGER FROM HERE

Kerala Blasters FC coowner Sachin Tendulkar was present at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi to watch his side belatedly begin their home campaign in the Hero Indian Super League against FC Goa. The ‘Master Blaster’, after which his team takes its name, say that the ISL experience can only get bigger. “ISL experience has been fantastic, the response is magnificent. I came here and the response is what we’re used to while playing cricket matches. Yeah, I think we’re (Kerala) playing our first home match after quite a while.

The tournament started on the 12th of last month and now we are playing our first home game, which is a terrific

thing for the Kerala Blasters because they’ve worked so hard out there playing away, now they’re at home and the people are supporting them. It’s already become a grand success, I would like to believe that this is just the beginning and it’s only going to get bigger from here, but it can only get bigger with more dedicated effort towards popularising football in India and providing a platform for youngsters who can realise their dreams and achieve them, and this is a fantastic platform.

What we’ve experienced inside cricket stadiums is what we’ve experienced here today and I have no doubt that people are going to turn out to support their team.”

SHEFFIELD BOXER HONOURED AT HOUSE OF PARLIAMENT

Sheffield boxer Najmul Kahar was awarded Silver Participant of the Year by Sport England at a ceremony in Westminster.

Najmul, 15, had taken part in a project run by Sheffield’s Aspire Amateur Boxing Club and Sheffield Community Youth Team, participating in weekly boxing sessions in Firth Park, Sheffield.

Najmul had won the county and regional rounds, and fought off competition from over 100 other nominated participants, before making his way down to London for the National Awards held in the House of Commons.

The clubs were presented their award by Zoe Smith, Commonwealth Games Bronze Medallist and Minister of Sport, Helen Grant was also in attendance to congratulate the winners.

Najmul said: ‘It is a real honour just to be nominated

and I am delighted with the silver award. Boxing has kept me focused and enabled me to make positive changes in my life as well as keeping me active. I have never been part of a sports club before, and I have learnt so much as part of this experience. The discipline and focus I have learnt here I have transferred into my school life and also been accepted onto the Police apprenticeship programme which I now volunteer for one evening every week.’

Ben Stewart, Yorkshire’s regional England Boxing club support officer, said: ‘The way that Najmul has turned his life around will hopefully inspire and encourage other young people. The effects of Najmul’s time with the club aren’t limited to boxing; he has improved at school and is giving something back to the community by volunteering.

‘Najmul has worked hard

to make positive changes to his life and really deserves both the award and the opportunities that the project has presented him with.'

Kathryn Mudge, Sportivate Lead, ‘South Yorkshire Sport is immensely proud of Najmul for winning this award. He was made huge steps to transform his life, from a young person involved within anti-social behaviour, to a mature and dedicated young person who is a role model to others. Najmul has used the Sportivate sessions to improve his discipline, and since taking part in the programme has also been successful in gaining a Police Apprenticeship and volunteers time weekly as a Police Volunteer.’

Sportivate was launched in June 2011 with the overall aim of increasing opportunities for young people aged 1125 to regularly participate

• BOXER: Najmul Kahar receiving his award from Helen Grant (Minister of Sport) at the Houses of Parliment

in sport through a series of weekly sport sessions.

Backed by National Lottery funding, Sportivate aims to give young people who currently aren’t playing sport in their own time the chance to find a sport they like. The young people are then helped to find a club or other venue where they can keep taking part.

Since its launch, more than 420,000 young people have attended Sportivate sessions, with 350,000 completing their coaching sessions.

SACHIN BREAKS BOOK RECORDS Sachin Tendulkar's autobiography "Playing It My Way", released Thursday, has broken all records of an adult hardback on preorder subscriptions across both fiction and non-fiction categories, a statement from the publishers.

Tendulkar's book has broken the mark set by Steve Jobs' biography by Walter Isaacson, which had sold 130,000 copies.

According to reports, on the day of release and before sales began, 150,000 copies had already been pre-

ordered to Hachette India, the publishers of the book -- already pulling ahead of both pre-order and lifetime sales of the top hardbacks Dan Brown's Inferno, Walter Issacson's Steve Jobs and JK Rowling's Casual Vacancy.

"It is no surprise that the master blaster's pen talks up records at the same pace as his bat. We're delighted that he has now notched up a thousand hundreds on debut, and we're sure that this innings has only just begun," Thomas Abraham.

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BATTING FOR

NOVEMBER 2014

FUTURE OF BASKETBALL

Sport England and UK Sport agree package to fund British Basketball teams and help talent development in the sport.

British Basketball will receive £1.18 million from Sport England and technical expertise from UK Sport in a bid to grow the sport in Britain, Sports Minister Helen Grant announced.

Sport England will provide £1.18 million worth of exchequer and National Lottery funding to British Basketball to support the men’s, women’s, Under 20 men’s and Under 20 women’s teams from November 2014 to March 2017.

The funding will contribute to the travel, tournament and coaching costs for the teams competing in international competitions. As a condition of the funding, the senior women’s team will target a top 12 position in the 2015 European Championship finals and the senior men’s team qualification for the 2017 European Championship Finals. As part of the financial agreement with Sport England, British Basketball will invest £592,000 of its own money.

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LEICESTERSHIRE Wasim Khan Named New CEO of Local County Cricket Club

Leicestershire have announced Wasim Khan will become their new chief executive officer. The beleaguered county side, who have not won an LV= County Championship match in two seasons, will hope Wasim can bring the success he has enjoyed on and off the field with him to Grace Road when he takes up his post in January. In his various cricket administration roles, the 43-yearold has been heavily involved in working with the local community and Leicestershire will be keen for that to continue, particularly in the region's Asian community, in order to boost interest in the club. The Asian Today caught up with the ex-cricketer.

NOTTINGHAM NAMED CITY OF FOOTBALL Nottingham has been named as Sport England‘s City of Football, narrowly beating Manchester and Portsmouth. Nottingham will receive £1.6 million to get more people in the city playing football regularly.

Firstly, congratulations. How does it feel to be appointed as Chief Executive to Leicester CCC?

Nottingham clinched the title by mobilising an impressive group of private, public and voluntary sector partners from both inside and outside the traditional football family, to do whatever it takes to get more people – particularly those aged 14-25 years – playing all kinds of football regularly.

SPORT AND MENTAL HEALTH • LEICESTERSHIRE CCC: Wasim Khan

Plans for England's first large scale programme using sport to improve the lives of 75,000 people experiencing mental health problems were unveiled by grassroots sports body Sport England and Mind, the mental health charity.

When the programme is launched next year, people experiencing mental health problems - such as depression and anxiety - will be supported to join mainstream sports clubs, go to the gym or take up a new sport.

• LEICESTERSHIRE CCC: Wasim Khan with Chairman Paul Haywood AUGUST 2014

DESI XPRESS

those things. I have to make sure people are doing the right jobs and are using their skill sets and that there is a clear vision for everyone.

south-Asian wanting to get into top level cricket - read my story. I have not come from a privileged background.

Growing up, everyone kept telling me that I could never become a professional cricketer because it is not for people like us. I grew up in Small Heath, surrounded by people telling me cricket is not a career and that there are no opportunities for nonwhite players. I didn't settle for that. I thought I'm going to do it by playing the best I can.

This country, more so than any other country, gives you the opportunity to succeed.

Play the game. Understand the environment and adapt to that environment. It's easy to blame race when things don't go to plan.

"It is a tremendous honour to be appointed You are the first British Asian as chief executive officer to be appointed, how does of Leicestershire County that make you feel?

Cricket Club. I am really looking forward to working I am very proud of that fact. with all of the staff and the I think it can get over-played How do you put that change board because I on a grassroots know there are level?

"Growing up, everyone terrific people at Grace Road. It is an A big part of my role kept telling me that I could exciting opportunity at Leicestershire is for me. I remember never become a professional to engage the southplaying at Grace Asian community. cricketer because it is not for Road in the past and I've always been a the club has always people like us..." believer that cricket been extremely well as a sport is very supported by its good at saying to Asians, members and supporters. a bit too much because 'give us your money, but we I thoroughly enjoyed my everyone who gets into don't want you anywhere near positions of authority are time in cricket as a player our cricket club.' We have to there on merit.

I want to be and it has been fantastic to try and create an emotional continue working within the someone who was the best person for the job. I was the connection with people - the game I love." first British-born Pakistani club and that area. I want to find out what Leicestershire You have a mountain to climb to play professional cricket has done wrong when it in trying to turn the fortunes for England and now I have comes to engaging the of the club around, what's the become very fortunate to public and the club, what the become the first south-Asian first step? chief executive across country opportunities they have that The biggest thing is we have cricket clubs. Looking across they don't get and why they to bring a little energy to the all sports, there are no Black are not getting involved from place. What I have realised or Ethnic Minority figures in a a business side. This is why I always say to the south-Asian already with the club is chief-executive role. community, get yourselves that there are some really good people who are really How do you intend to utilise in a position of authority passionate. That is a fantastic your platform to make sure and create change. I want to start to have. What they have we are encouraging south- see south-Asian youngsters come through the ranks at been lacking in the past is Asian youngsters?

Leicester and feel like they strategic direction and real energy. There is no formula to I would say to any young are getting that opportunity.

33

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The ambitious project, which will be run in eight areas across England, will be designed in collaboration with people living with mental health problems and will offer peer support groups, taster sessions and events to help people make sport part of their everyday lives.

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79

KING OF THE RING • HISTORICAL: Pakistan celebrate their win

ALI STRIKES TO TAKE GOLD

Continued from Back Page Brad Haddin, despite his injured shoulder, walked in next and he, along with Steve Smith, who was eyeing his first century of the series, resisted Pakistan till lunch.

Pakistan's spinners ran amok on Australia immediately after lunch, with three wickets falling in the three overs right after lunch without any runs scored, reducing Australia from 238-5 to 238-8, with Yasir Shah and Zulfiqar Babar proving too much for Australia's batsmen to handle. Steve Smith, after playing doggedly, fell 3 short of his century. Australia's last two wickets lasted less than five overs and added eight runs before Yasir Shah and Zulfiqar Babar sealed the win, picking up the last two

wickets in the 88th and 89th overs respectively, sealing a 356 run victory to conclude a 2-0 thrashing of Australia.

The first match ending with a 221 run win for Pakistan.

Much was said about the threat posed by Australia's pace attack, particularly Mitchell Johnson but Pakistan's batsmen, who were under immense pressure prior to the series on account of a string of poor performances, proved up to the task.

Misbah-ul-Haq and his men were clinical and ferocious in equal measure and the result is a much needed series win and it would surely be all the more special given that it came against a team Pakistan has not beaten in a series for 20 years.

• RISING STAR: Muhammad Ali

M

uhammad Ali boxed his way to a gold medal in the finals of the Youth European Championships in Zagreb.

A strong display against Bulgarian Daniel Asenov saw the 18-yearold flyweight from Bury Boxing Club take a 3:0 points decision and first place on the podium.

Sheffield's Dalton Smith was defeated by Russian Maxim Krivtsov at lightweight, following a string of powerful performances earlier in the competition. The Steel City ABC boxer returns from Croatia with a wellearned silver medal.

Niall Farrell of Kingstanding Second City won a bronze medal after losing a split decision to Moldovan Iulian Ivanoc in the 49kg semi finals.

It was also recently announced that the 18-year-old, from Keighley, West Yorkshire had been announced as one of the nominees for SportsAid's prestigious One-to-Watch Award.

During his time as a SportsAid-funded athlete, Muhammad has achieved a bronze medal in the 2014 Youth Olympics and silver in the AIBA Youth World Championships. A seven-time national champion, he was named SportsAid’s athlete

of the month for September 2014.

He also completed two years as a student on the two-year AASE programe at Bradford College and is now studying there for a degree in sports coaching.

Other notable recipients from recent years include diver Tom Daley, sprinter Jodie Williams – now the British number one over 200m – and gymnast Courtney Tulloch.

The shortlist of ten was drawn up by judges from Sport England, UK Sport, the English Institute of Sport, BBC Sport and SportsAid – chaired by Olympian Sarah Winckless – from 1,300 young

sports people across the UK who have received financial support from SportsAid this year.

These ten athletes represent Britain’s brightest prospects for the future with two junior world champions, one senior world champion, one double world record holder and a string of remarkable performances among them.

The winner will be announced at the SportsBall, SportsAid's flagship gala dinner which is sponsored by Eversheds, at Supernova in London’s Embankment Gardens on November 27.

• 100: Misbah-ul-Haq, Younis Khan and Azhar Ali celebrating their centuries against Austrailia

EVERYBODY ACTIVE SCHEME

SPORTING EQUALS ANNOUNCES NEW AMBASSADOR S

porting Equals have announced that Dilawer Singh MBE has become an ambassador.

Dilawer is won the Sports Personality of the Year category at the Asian Achievers Awards.

Dilawer was the first Asian and Sikh police officer in Scotland and spent over 30 years with Strathclyde Police and Her Majesty’s Inspectorate.

A former wrestler Dilawer is a keen kabbadi player, referee and coach, badminton player and coach and marathon runner. He has raised thousands of pounds for different international charities through his

sporting work.

Dilawer was also part of the 2014 Commonwealth Games Bid Team and now sits on sub committees for recruiting volunteers and planning the legacy of the games.

Amongst a list of prestigious awards and titles, particular highlights include Dilawer receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Lord Provost of Glasgow for his contribution and service to Sport; Past President of the Vaisakhi da Mela Committee and Govan Rotary Club, Founding Member and Chair of SEMSA Scotland, Honorary President of the Association of Indian Organisations, Chair of

• AMBASSADOR: Dilawer Singh MBE

Scottish Ethnic Minority Sports Association since 1989 and Vice Chair of the Sports Council for Glasgow.

• Dilawer Singh MBE

Groups with projects designed to get inactive people more physically active through sport can now bid for a share of a new £5 million National Lottery fund, it has been announced today.

Sport England, which invests public money in grassroots sport projects, has made the money available through its Get

Healthy, Get Active fund.

This latest round of funding comes as Public Health England publish Everybody Active, Every Day, a framework for national and location action to address the national physical inactivity epidemic, responsible for 1 in 6 deaths and costing the country an estimated £7.4 billion a year.

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he final day of the 2nd Test ended with plenty of time to spare as Pakistan wrapped up Australia's chase with a clinical display of spin bowling.

Australia had a sliver of hope of drawing the match when they started on their

overnight score of 143-4 with Steve Smith and Mitchell Marsh looking comfortable against the spinners, rotating the strike with ease but a miscue off a turning delivery

by Mohammad Hafeez had Marsh caught at leg slip for 47.

Continued on page 79