Issue 196 by The Asian Today

MARCH 2015 ISSUE No.196

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A Night Of Stand Up Comedy

Sunday 29th March 2015

The Glee Club Birmingham Join us at the award-winning The Glee Club for an unforgettable night: Hosted by the energetic Mickey Sharma (a Pakistaniborn Indian), Mickey brings comedy with other forms of artistry. Laugh out loud with the finest professional comedians on the UK comedy circuit: • Aatif Nawaz – award-winning film-maker, respected stand-up comedian and well-known TV presenter • Jay Sodagar – thought-provoking comedy teacher, who makes you think about his material after you have laughed • Axel Blake – young, confident, energetic character, the rising star of UK comedy. • Inder Manocha – winner of EMMA (Ethnic Multicultural Media Award) for best comedy/comedian

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MEERA GANATRA INTERVIEW PREmature BY ROHITH S. KATBAMNA & TERRY MARDI

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NO.1 FOR ASIAN ENTERTAINMENT SINGER SET TO LEAD UDTA PUNJAB

DILJIT AND KAREENA?

DILJIT DOSANJH set for Bollywood debut PG. 36

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LEGACY OF A SUFI

SUFI MOHAMMED ABDULLAH KHAN 1923 - 2015

A SERVICE TO HUMANITY D

edicating his life to the service of his religion and the community, Sufi Abdullah Khan Sahib’s legacy, commitment and loyalty was clear to see. The 15,000 people that came to pay tribute to him at his funeral was evidence of how much of an esteemed individual he was. His numerous charity projects, educational establishments and religious beliefs propelled him to continue the work that he set out to do. Speaking to The

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Hifzha Shaheen Senior Journalist hifzha@theasiantoday.com

Asian Today, Sufi Sahib's grandson, Abdul Hafeez, said his work was never finished; there was always more to do. “Working nightshifts six days a week in the foundry, he would teach the Quran and serve his community by offering advice on religious and spiritual matters during the day. The doors were open to everyone, not just to Muslims. People would come and ask for guidance, and Sufi Sahib would always help, he made time for everyone”. Born in 1923 in Behkri, in the district of Chakwal, Punjab, he was educated

in Pakistan and went on to enlist into the British Indian army at the age of 16. Whilst serving in the army during World War 2, he was captured in Libya by the German forces and taken to Germany, where he was kept as a prisoner of war for about two years. He was a part of a small group that managed to escape and they ended up in a jungle in France. With the help of a French woman, were able to find a British army camp where they reported and asked to be returned to their own country. Heading back, Sufi Sahib served in the army up until 1962.

Deepika Padukone to Make Singing Debut PG. 36

LONDON TURNS BOLLYWOOD AT THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL PREMIERE

Tina Des ai ARRIVES IN STYLE

lavish set of marigold Dubey who stars as Mrs Kapoor looked property now that his first venture, flowers and a bright orange equally striking in a white sari. ‘The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel for the carpet greeted guests as The Second Best Exotic Marigold Elderly and Beautiful’, has only a single they arrived to the world premiere Hotel, which went on general release on remaining vacancy – posing a rooming of The Second Best Exotic Marigold 26th February is a sequel to the smash predicament for fresh arrivals Guy Hotel, directed by John Madden. hit first film The Best Exotic Marigold (Richard Gere) and Lavinia (Tamsin The Royal guests of honour were joined by Greig). members of the cast Evelyn and Douglas and crew including (Judi Dench and Bill stars Dame Judi Nighy) have now joined Dench, the Jaipur workforce, Dame Maggie and are wondering Smith, Celia Imrie, Ronald where their regular Pickup, Tina Desai, dates for Chilla "It was like those places you go to in Lillete Dubey, Diana pancakes will Hotel. your childhood and think won’t be the while Norman lead, Hardcastle, Shazad and Latif, T h e same, but it was, only better.” director John Madden, writer Carol (Ronald Pickup Second Ol Parker and producer and Diana Hardcastle) B e s t Graham Broadbent. are negotiating Exotic Marigold Hotel is the the tricky waters of an exclusive Tina Desai, who arrived expansionist dream of Sonny (Dev relationship, as Madge (Celia Imrie) in style in a glammed-up Patel), and it’s making more claims juggles two eligible and very wealthy rickshaw, looked stunning on his time than he has available, suitors. As the demands of a traditional in a designer lehnga outfit considering his imminent marriage to Indian wedding threaten to engulf them with shimmering mirror the love of his life, Sunaina (Tina Desai). all, an unexpected way forward presents work. Co-star Lillete Sonny has his eye on a promising itself.

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15,000 PEOPLE

ATTENDED THE FUNERAL TO PAY TRIBUTE MORE PICTURES ON PAGE 10

Served in the British Army at the age of 16 Kept as a prisoner of war for two years Founded one of the biggest mosques in Europe in the early 90's

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CONTENT Local News

35 Fashion & Beauty 48 DesiXpress

Food & Travel 46 Lifestyle

Technology National International Business Property Motoring Sports

49 50 51 54 56 57 61

SPORTS

ICC CRICKET WORLD CUP 2015

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“JIHADI TERRORISTS ARE A CURSE ON HUMANITY”

A troublesome past can never be used as justification for such heinous crimes.

Muslim Soldier Hits Out At Extremist Groups

• SOLDIER: Zeeshan Hashmi (left) with his brother Jabron Hashmi at his passing out parade at Winchester

n ex-Army soldier has spoken out about extremist hatred and blamed the issue on communities who fail to integrate in British society. Zeeshan Hashmi, whose brother, Jabron, became the first Muslim soldier to die whilst fighting for the British Army in Afghanistan, has said more needs to be done. The 36-year-old, from Small Heath, hit out at jihadi terror groups by calling them a “curse on humanity.” He spoke out after the unmasking of Islamic State

serial killer ‘Jihadi John’ as Londoner Mohammed Emwazi. “Someone who kills noncombatants, humanitarians and journalists in the name of religion is not only delusional but a curse on humanity. “The history of Islam is tainted with false prophets and caliphs, so there is nothing new with the self-proclamation of ISIL and its corrupt leaders. “Anyone taking it upon themselves to pass that judgement can only be blasphemous. A troublesome past can never be used as

justification for such heinous crimes.” Whilst in the Army, Zeeshan was in the Intelligence Corps, a division of the Royal Signals. He went on to complete two tours of Afghanistan and one of Kosovo. His brother Jabron, who had also joined up, stayed on and was killed in a rocket attack on July 1, 2006. He was a Lance Corporal and had been 24 at the time. Zeeshan said, “We received support from far and wide – and we also started receiving threats from the local community. Some said my brother was a traitor. “People would drive by, slowly pointing out where we lived and saying, ‘That is where the British soldier came from.’ “The timeline is important. Jabron was killed almost exactly a year after the 7/7 bombings in London, which had increased fear of homegrown fanatics in Britain. “Only seven months after he died, the police managed to foil an attempt by predominantly British Pakistanis to kidnap and behead a British Muslim soldier. “Some of the men convicted lived a few metres down the

• SOLDIER: Lance Corporal Jabron Hashmi

The UK is a just and tolerant place, we have equal rights and we protect our elderly. These are Islamic principles, too, which my brother and I were deeply proud of. This is what my brother fought for – not his colour, creed or religion.

PLANS FOR NEW SIKH REGIMENT Head of British Army Looks to Revive Unit

BOXING: BROTHERS IN ARMS

TURN TO PAGE 61

A minister has revealed that the head of the British Army is looking at proposals to recreate the Sikh regiment. . Speaking during defence questions in the Commons, Conservative former defence minister Sir Nicholas Soames implored ministers to “do away with political correctness” and create a Sikh regiment.

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He told Mr Francois, “You will be aware of the extraordinary gallant and distinguished service by Sikhs to this country down the generations. “Would you not agree with me that it's high time to do away with the political correctness which infects some of this thinking and actually raise a Sikh regiment to serve in the country and

make up a very serious gap in our Armed Forces?” Chairman of the Defence Select Committee, conservative Rory Stewart, suggested a Sikh company

IN THIS MONTH:

THE TEAM 24 MARCH 2008:

EDITORIAL

Yusuf Raza Gilani is elected as the new Pakistani Prime Minister

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

9 MARCH 2009:

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within the reserves could be “a starting point”. He claimed there was much more possibility within the reserves to begin what he saw as an “excellent idea”.

road from my mother’s house. “If anything, Jabron’s death inspired them. Everything became more polarised.” The family had moved to Small Heath from Peshawar, Pakistan, in November 1994. “Every Saturday I went to Birmingham Central Library, where followers of the radical preacher Anjem Choudary and the (now banned) organisation Al-Muhajiroun were pointing at people, calling them “kaffirs” and saying they would go to hell. “We moved into what was essentially a Pakistani ghetto. “Jabron and I always dreamed of being in the military and I swore my allegiance to the Queen on December 19 2000, when I joined the Royal Artillery. “The political landscape was very different then – or maybe I was more naive. More British Muslims are fighting for jihadi groups in Syria than are in the British Army. “You can’t expect a child attending one to suddenly, at the age of 16, realise Britain is actually a pretty diverse place. “By that point they have already become brainwashed. Integration needs to happen right from the start; it needs to happen in communities.” Zeeshan called on the immigrant families to take on the responsibility. He said, “Within them are some who, despite being born here, inhabit a fantasy world where an Islamic state is the ideal and sharia the answer. They don’t appreciate what they have in Britain. “What zealots like Jihadi John preach is a huge hypocrisy. The UK is a just and tolerant place, we have equal rights and we protect our elderly. These are Islamic principles, too, which my brother and I were deeply proud of. This is what my brother fought for – not his colour, creed or religion. “Men of words are quite different from men of action. Jabron was always one of the latter. He wanted to make a change in his own way.”

Sri Lankan cricket team attacked by militants whilst on tour of Pakistan. All international cricket matches in Pakistan are suspended. Pakistan also loses its status as hosts for the cricket World Cup 2011.

23 MARCH 1931 Bhagat Singh Martyred

23 MARCH 1940:

Lahore Resolution: Political statement called for independent states for Muslims in British India.

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SENIOR JOURNALIST

Hifzha Shaheen

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WOMAN ARRESTED

• ARRESTED: Tareena Shakil was arrested at Heathrow

A woman detained at Heathrow on suspicion of Syria-related terrorism offences is reportedly local mother Tareena Shakil, from Sparkbrook. A statement from West Midlands Police said counter terrorism officers had detained a woman after she got off a flight from Turkey and was also arrested on suspicion of child neglect and child abduction. Detectives also said the woman had been travelling with her one-year-old son. She had been questioned by officers from West Midland’s Counter Terrorism Unit, and was later released on bail. It had been reported that she had visited the ISIS city of Ragga in Syria where she later made a dramatic escape to Turkey having refused to enter a forced marriage to an ISIS fighter. Her father Mohammed, 47, mother Mandy, 48, and brother and sister met her at the airport. Mohammed said, “I’m delighted to have her back to British soil where she belongs. Tareena realises she made a huge mistake and has vowed to help stop others repeating it once she is free.” Her son is now subject to a police protection order. In a statement, a force spokesman said, “She’s suspected of returning to the UK from Syria via Turkey. It is her activities, while outside the UK, which form the basis of our investigation.”

SIKH TEMPLE DAMAGED - POLICE OPEN INVESTIGATION INTO CAUSE

HUNDREDS EVACUATED AT

GURDWARA

FIRE H

undreds of people had to be evacuated after a fire broke out at a Leicester city Sikh Temple. The temple’s caretaker was alerted of the fire in a top floor store-room after the fire alarm sounded. Nobody was hurt although fire fighters had to prevent people from running back to retrieve the Guru Granth Sahib the holy book of Sikhs. Surinderpal Singh Rai, education secretary at the temple, said, “I only live three or four minutes away. There were a few hundred people in the building and, when I got here, everyone was being evacuated quite smoothly. “The top floor is only used for storage. When the fire alarm went off, the caretaker went to have a

alarm I thought it was a practice, look but couldn’t put it out and but one of my colleagues said it was called the fire brigade, who were here quickly.” an actual fire. “We started getting people out of He added, “There are special prayers said for the elderly on a the building, checking toilets and went upstairs to get people out as Tuesday between 11am and 12 quickly as noon. “Normally There was a lot of black smoke p o s s i b l e , were people would coming from the top floor and there possibly have been in a a lot of people coming out hall above the 300 or more here. ground floor, but thankfully they hadn’t moved “The evacuation was quite upstairs before the fire broke out. orderly, but some people tried to go back in to get the Guru Granth “It’s unfortunate we’ve had a fire, but it has only affected the top of Sahib.” the building, it could have been Crew manager Rob Green, from the city’s eastern fire station who worse. We’ll soon have the show on the road again.” was present at the scene, said, “There was a lot of black smoke Centre manager Surinder Kaur Barth said, “When I heard the coming from the top floor and a lot

JAILED FOR TORCHING ULFAH ARTS A

former prison convict has been jailed for setting fire to a Birmingham arts centre, causing over £100,000 worth of damage, just hours after being released from prison. 40-year-old Leon Smythe went on a binge of crack, lager and brandy after leaving jail. He then entered Ulfah Arts and Media at the Highgate Craft Centre and set fire to the volunteer-run business, though he intended to burgle it initially. He fled without raising an alarm; however a passerby luckily managed to call the fire service. Smythe was jailed for five years due to the blaze, which caused more than £100,000 worth of damage.

A DEADLY CHEMICAL

Warnings have been issued after a woman died due to an allergic reaction to black henna. An inquest heard how Julie McCabe, aged 38, died in 2012 after the hair dye she used infected the black henna tattoo she had got done in 2007, which increased her reaction. Coroner Geoff Fell returned an accidental death verdict but also urged people to be aware of this danger. Black henna is illegal as it contains paraphenylenediamine (PPD), which cause lasting damage to the skin.

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of people coming out. “It was difficult to stop a small number of people going back inside to get the holy books.” Station manager Paul Purser said, “It was a bad enough fire, but it had the potential to involve the whole of the premises. “The crews did a good job to stop it spreading. I would appeal to people in a fire not to go back in to get belongings no matter how treasured, but to get themselves out and leave us to fight the fire.” Parts of East Park Road, St Saviours Road, St Barnabus Road and Green Lane Road, in Leicester, were closed off during the incident. Cause of the fire is under investigation.

• JAILED: Leon Smythe set fire to Volunteer Run Ulfah Arts

The cost to Ulfah Arts has been said to be between £35,000 to £40,000. Detective Constable Steve Smith said, “This was a serious fire which devastated the Arts Centre, the community it serves and those whose homes were affected. “Smythe showed no regard for all the people he placed in danger and has given no real reason for committing this terrible act. “The sentence shows that such reckless and dangerous crimes will not go unpunished and hopefully all those whose lives he touched will take some comfort from the sentence he has today received.”

BOGUS PROMISES Nine Years Sentence for Fake Faith Healer Who Duped Victims for Money • JAILED: Mohammed Ashrafi A bogus faith healer, who convinced people he could help them win the lottery, has been jailed for nine years. Mohammed Ashrafi, who went under the name of Kamal-Ji and used magic tricks in order to trick people into believing his healer status, was convicted of 15 offences of fraud and one offence of blackmail. The 50-year-old duped his victims by asking for tens of thousands of pounds and in return, he would ‘cure’ them.

These “healers” normally advertise their skills in foreign newspapers, with business cards posted through the letter box or left on car windshields. Their promised services include healing broken marriages, eradicating financial problems, lifting curses and even curing diseases such as cancer or HIV. Inspector Ben Gillard, commander of the East Area Neighbourhood policing area said, “I am sure there are other people out there who were either victims of this man or of similar conmen. “Those people may be reluctant to come forward to tell us what has happened to them.

“People like Ashrafi rely on people’s reluctance to speak out because it allows them to continue exploiting people." He went on to advise people to turn to organisations such as Citizen’s Advice Bureau, local GPs and counselling services if they need help with money, relationship or legal problems. Gillard stated that it is “very important that family members, friends and community leaders – people who are trusted – intervene and advise individuals against getting involved and also report these matters to the police, Crimestoppers, Trading Standards or Action Fraud.”

• AFTERMATH: The

Clean up process begins

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NEWS

DIVORCE WARNINGS OVER RELIGIOUS MARRIAGES Charity Urges Women to Get Registered A campaign group in Birmingham is warning thousands of Muslim women that they will have no rights if they divorce, because their marriages are not recognised under UK law. Charity Aurat, which supports women affected by cultural based abuse, says the it will impact those women who have

not backed up their religious or Sharia marriage with that of a civil ceremony. One victim spoke of the heartbreaking effect it had on her. “I was homeless. I tried to commit suicide. I went to see my solicitors, but they said they couldn’t do anything because I wasn’t registered with him. So I wasn’t entitled to anything. They told

GEARING UP FOR

me the nikah wasn’t legally recognised in this country, I didn’t know this.” Lawyer Anna Khan, who plans to visit communities to raise awareness on the issue, said that it was a growing problem. “For the last five years I have noticed that it has gone from 50% to 80% of callers to me, who are saying their marriages are not registered under

English law.” According to Aurat, many younger women are unaware that their Islamic ceremony is not legally recognised. It is also because many mosques are not registered to conduct civil marriages. Birmingham’s Central Mosque is one of 250, which have signed up to register marriages. Abdul Rashid, from the mosque, said, “I think this is not something within my power, I think this is something that people need to know.”

• READY SET GO: Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Lady Mayoress - Sadia Shah, and Cllr Ray Hassall are to take on Birmingham 10k run

THE GREAT RUN Lord Mayor all set for 10K Run

ord Mayor of Birmingham, Cllr Shafique Shah, will be swapping his chains for trainers again as he prepares for the Morrisons Great Birmingham 10k on Sunday 3 May. He'll be joined by Lady Mayoress, Sadia Shah, and fellow councillor and Lord Mayor elect, Cllr Ray Hassall, (the next Lord Mayor). They will all be raising money for the Lord Mayor's charities.

Lord Mayor Cllr Shafique Shah said, “I like to keep fit and I really enjoyed taking part in the Great Birmingham Run last year. I'm hoping we can encourage more Brummies to get fit, take part in the 10k and help to raise money for my chosen charities. Please support the valuable work carried out by Birmingham's Children's Hospital, Focus Birmingham, SIFA Fireside and the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.”

This year's Lord Mayor's charities are: Birmingham Children's Hospital, Focus Birmingham, SIFA Fireside and Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham Charity. Anyone wanting to make a donation to the Lord Mayor's Charity Appeal can make a cheque payable to ‘Lord Mayor's Charity Appeal 2014/15' and post to Lord Mayor's Office, Council House, Victoria Square, Birmingham B1 1BB or go

JAILED FOR SELLING FAKE CLOTHES online at www.justgiving.com/ lordmayorbirmingham New to the 2015 Great Run series, the Morrisons Great Birmingham 10k will give runners a choice of musical starting waves to choose from. With music from the 70s, 80s, 90s and the 00s, the event promises to bring a party to the streets of Birmingham.

Three Birmingham traders have been jailed for a total of three years and 10 months, for offences relating to the possession of garments, for the purpose of supply, which bore registered trademarks without the consent of the proprietors with an estimated value of £1.5 million. Tariq Mahmood Hussain (37), who was found guilty of 15 offences under the

Trade Marks Act 1994, was sentenced to 20 months imprisonment at Birmingham Crown Court. Tariq Hussain (40) and Ashiq Hussain (42) were jailed for 18 months and eight months respectively. Birmingham City Council brought a case against these defendants following a yearlong investigation into their complex operation.

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NEWS

"HIS WORK WAS NEVER FINISHED, THERE WAS ALWAYS MORE TO DO..." CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE Thinking about his next step after completing his service in the army, he thought about leaving for the UK, like most south Asian families, as that happened to be the most popular decision. After speaking to his spiritual

guide, Zinda Pir Sahib, he gained permission to leave. He was asked to go to the UK to further the message of Islam and it was in April 1962 that he migrated to Birmingham. After a couple of weeks, due to the lack of religious resources, he established a small Dhikr gathering and started Friday prayers at his

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RESPECT : 15,000 People Attended the Funeral of Sufi Abdullah Khan at Ghamkol Sharif Masjid

home. Son, Sufi Javed Akhtar said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;At a time when nobody knew the direction to pray, he brought with him a sense of calm. It was a really difficult task â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to keep devoted to your faith, along with spreading the message of Islam.â&#x20AC;? Public faith grew and thus the first Islamic jaloos was established in 1973 in the form of a Milad procession organised and led by Sufi Sahib. Chanting through the streets of Birmingham, the parade is accredited as the first of its kind in the UK. Supplementary classes for children and the Dhikr circle grew rapidly whilst at his residence on Warwick Road. As Sufi Sahib touched the hearts of those he encountered, he soon realised the space was too small. It was in 1983 that Dar ul Uloom Islamia was established on Golden Hillock Road, Small Heath. A disused factory hall with the capacity to accommodate around 700 worshippers was bought. A community centre was

built next during the late 1980's and, in a quest to seek land for a car park, the present site where Central Jamia Masjid Ghamkol Sharif is located was purchased. Reminiscing about the time, Sufi Javed said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Raja Saleem Akhtar, on behalf of the Masjid Committee, met with West Midlands County Council and we were offered the land at a third of its price if we were to build a Masjid". The foundation of the Masjid was put down in 1992 and the project was completed within 4 years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There was no shortage of funds. People have been very generous and opened their pockets whenever they could and contributed openly. We would never stop work, whatever the weather; we would show up to build. It was for the need of our community, so we built it. Also, there are a number of other community initiatives, such as funeral service, community centre, accommodation for those with mental health issues, education centre, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s centre and an Academy in conjunction with South & City College.â&#x20AC;? It was his relationship with his

spiritual teacher, Zinda Pir Sahib, which ultimately defined his own character. Both met in 1945 during their army years and instantly bonded. Sufi Sahib would spend his entire leave serving Zinda Pir Sahib in Ghamkol Sharif. Once Sufi Sahib came to the UK, they would meet on an annual basis during Hajj. Zinda Pir Sahib travelled from Pakistan and Sufi Sahib from the UK, this became a regular practice for the best part of 25-30 years. Abdul Hafeez added, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The love that Almighty God has placed in the hearts for Sufi Sahib is the reason that 15,000 people came to pay their respects. He had an impact on the lives of so many". â&#x20AC;&#x153;Through the interaction that they had with Sufi Sahib over the years, seeing his work, his practical life, his characteristics, his personality, his manners and his etiquette, it drew them closer to Islam and reverts into the fold of Islam". â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a service to humankind, a duty upon us all. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the example he set and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the example he leaves behind. The doors of the Masjid and the Darbar are open to all of God's creation.â&#x20AC;?

The mosque caters for up to 700 worshippers Funeral services for the Muslim community Accomodation for those with mental health issues and the general community

â&#x20AC;˘ GHAMKOL SHARIF: Construction of the Mosque

An academy in conjuction with South & City College

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returned to the airport. Arshad said neither airport nor travel firm staff asked to see the ‘fit to fly’ certificate. “After all of that, they never asked to see the letter,” the dad said. “When we got onto the flight we were just so thankful. Even though it was raining when we landed, we were relieved to finally be back in the UK. My son is outgoing and very flexible when it comes to travelling. It was shocking and terrible what happened, and we are still feeling the effects, months on.”

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airport doctor but he told them they had to visit a local hospital. An ambulance was provided for transport but the parents were told they would be billed for everything. “They strapped my son to a stretcher and we were all sitting in the back of the ambulance,’’ said Arshad. “It just didn’t feel right. I didn’t have any faith in what was going on. I saw a taxi pull up and put my family in the taxi instead.” Having stayed another two days and paying an extra £550, the couple and their children

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Birmingham family have claimed that they were left stranded in Turkey when their 11-year-old autistic son was labelled ‘unfit to fly.’ Arshad Sherbaz and Selina Begum, who had spent £2,300 to enjoy the Thomas Cook package holiday with disabled Mustafah and his sister Meelam, 19, were not allowed to board their return flight home after being told Mustafah needed a confirmation certificate from a doctor. Angry dad Arshad, 41, said, “They told us we needed a doctor’s note to allow him to fly from the airport and were asked to sit in another area while we watched all the other passengers board the plane. We were gobsmacked,’’ he recalled. “Someone from Thomas Cook told us that they had spoken to the pilot who had refused to let my son on the plane to fly home. They said Arshad was a safety risk and was not fit to fly. We couldn’t understand. I had notified Thomas Cook before the holiday about my son’s disability. The only thing I could think of was that he had a small tantrum on the flight on the way out.” Mustafah, who has severe autism, communicates through sign language. Arshad said, “It had been a long day. We had missed our flight from Gatwick Airport and had been told to go back to Birmingham for another flight. “My son had been awake a long time, and naturally was tired. It was the only reason I could think of why they weren’t letting him fly home.” After being stopped from boarding the plane in July, the family tried to see the

0800-1-123-123 0 800-1 1-1 123-1 123

MARCH 2015

LEGAL COLUMN INHERITANCE DISPUTES AND THE WAR OF THE WILLS Gavin Faber sets out the common reasons for estate disputes and some tips to avoid them. Whether we’re watchers of Eastenders, Downton Abbey or Jeremy Kyle, we all know that family relationships are not always straightforward, and when inheritance issues arise, tensions can boil over into serious disputes. At Irwin Mitchell, we have seen a significant increase in claims relating to wills. This can be put down to numerous factors: the ageing population, the rise in second marriages, and that only 1/3 of us has a will, is creating a perfect storm for estate disputes. We recognise that in the Asian community, cultural and traditional assumptions about who will inherit, interdependencies between extended family members and question marks about the validity of marriages under English law can increase the likelihood of a claim. Validity Claims Many wills are invalid because they have not been executed properly (often in the case of homemade wills) or the deceased did not have capacity or was subject to undue influence. It is important that someone making a will understands what they are doing. If there are concerns about the deceased’s capacity, lawyers should be instructed to investigate the circumstances. Failure to Properly Plan for Dependants The Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 allows those who have not been appropriately provided for on death (either under a will, or if there was no will) to claim reasonable financial provision. Potential Claimants include spouses, exspouses who have not remarried, co-habitees and children (including step-children). In addition, someone who was dependent upon the deceased may have a claim. Tips for Avoiding Disputes 1. Challenge your attitude to death Death is a taboo subject but discussing with your loved ones what you want to happen after your death can prevent most will disputes. 2. Be realistic about what your assets are worth Have assets such as

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Bangladesh: A Story of Instability

n its 44 year history, Bangladesh has achieved many accomplishments. However, political unrest and divided loyalties have taken its toll on what has now become a fighting battle. We look at the important dates that have shaped the country to what it has become.

• LEGAL - Gavin Faber

jewellery and property valued regularly, helping you insure accurately now and make preparations for later. 3. Make sure your will is witnessed properly ‘DIY’ wills are often invalid because the person has misunderstood the terms or failed to get it witnessed properly. All wills must be signed in the presence of two people. 4. Ensure you leave your spouse/partner enough Always make sure your spouse is adequately provided for in your will. If you don’t, they may make a claim against your estate. Also consider anyone who you are supporting financially and anyone else who might expect to benefit under your will. 5. Factor in mortgages If you leave someone a property, don’t forget they will be liable for any mortgage. One way to avoid this is to pay off a mortgage in your lifetime or make provision for doing so in your will. 6. Think about who to name as your executor Most people opt for a son or daughter but that can cause tensions. Remember you can appoint a professional to act on your behalf, such as a lawyer. 7. Make your will ASAP The sooner you make a will the better, particularly if you are advancing in years, in order to reduce the risk of your will being challenged on capacity. 8. Update your will regularly Re-evaluate your will after every major life event including marriage, divorce, death and births of family members and partners to make sure it still affords the protection you want it to. 9. Make an inventory of your assets Write a list of all your assets so your loved ones don’t have to piece together the jigsaw of your estate. 10. Keep your will in a safe place Keep a copy in a safe place known to your executor and store the original with a will bank, lawyer or conventional bank.

Contact me on twitter: @wilddisputes-IM

• BANGLADESH: The “All Pakistan Awami Muslim League” was formed by

Maulana Abdul Hameed Khan Bhashani as a breakaway faction of the “All Pakistan Muslim League” in 1949.

1947 - Partition of British India. Pakistan and India become two independent states.

1982 - Lieutenant General Hussain Muhammad Ershad assumes power after a bloodless coup.

1949 - Formation of the Awami Muslim League

1987 - State of emergency declared after opposition demonstrations and strikes.

1970 - First general election in Pakistan. Awami League gains majority. 1971 - Major Ziaur Rahman broadcasts the declaration of independence on behalf of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman over the radio.

• BANGLADESH: Demonstration of 1987

• BANGLADESH:

Ziaur Rahman broadcasts the declaration of independence

1973 - First general election in Bangladesh is held in which Bangladesh Awami League secures a majority. 1975 - Assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

• BANGLADESH: 1970 Awami League led by Bangabandhu Sheikh

• BANGLADESH:

Sheikh Hasina wins 2014 elections for the 3rd time

1977 - General Ziaur Rahman assumes the presidency. Islam is adopted in the constitution. 1981 - Assassination of Ziaur Rahman.

1991 - Bangladesh cyclone kills more than 138,000. 2005 - Terrorist group JMB simultaneously detonates 500 bombs in 300 different locations. 2007 - Sheikh Hasina arrested on extortion charges and denied bail. 2008 - Sheikh Hasina released on parole. She flies to the USA for medical treatment. 2009 - Sheikh Hasina assumed her office as Prime Minister of Bangladesh. 2014 - Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina gains a third term in elections.

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12 Month Suspended Sentence for Selling Stolen Items A mobile phone shop situated in a Birmingham suburb has been found to be at the “epicentre of the local stolen property economy” by police. Police seized 100 stolen items at Javed's residence on Reginald Road, Alum Rock, items which had been reported missing from as far away as Manchester and Cornwall. Detectives also came across a stash of bags and receipts, evidence which led cops to nearby mobile phone shop Pearl Mobile, on Alum Rock Road, which the 31-year-old man managed. The store boss was arrested after investigators recovered 11 valuable items on the business premises which theft victims had reported stolen. Javed was handed a 12-month suspended jail term despite denying his involvement in the scam. He was also ordered to complete 60 hours of unpaid work, pay £1,200 in court costs and £100 compensation to each of his victims, to be paid within a two-month timeframe.

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EVENT LAUNCHES SIKH 16

MARCH 2015

ikh groups are looking to shape the 2015 General Election result by targeting 50 key seats as part of a major campaign in support of a ten point manifesto. The target seats are mainly marginals, in which significant proportions of the voting population are Sikh. Candidates in each of the constituencies are being asked to set out their position, and those of their party, on the manifesto issues.

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The campaign and manifesto was recently launched in London by the Sikh Network and supported by the Sikh Federation (UK). “The manifesto topics are of such importance to the British Sikh community that the response of parties and candidates to them will determine how many in the community vote,” said Bhai Amrik Singh, Sikh Federation (UK) chair. “We are making the most of our voting clout through targeting seats and publishing a manifesto for the

first time. We are looking for firm commitments from each political party on the big issues.” This manifesto publication follows a major campaign to engage the Sikh community in its development. 10,000 delegates attended the September 2014 National Sikh Convention in Wolverhampton over three days, where the issues were debated and the manifesto content developed. Tens of thousands of Sikhs marched in London in June 2014

Proposal Will Target Seats to ‘Shape Elec The manifesto includes calls for: •

•

• SIKH MANIFESTO: Sikh groups are looking to sha the 2015 General Election result by targeting 50 seats as part of a major campaign

A statutory code of practice on items of the Sikh faith in order to prevent discrimination in the workplace and public spaces An independent inquiry into the actions of the British Government in relation to the Amritsar and Delhi massacres of 1984 Allocation of a suitable site in central London for a permanent monument to Sikhs who lost their lives in the First World War More effective Sikh representation in the Houses of Parliament

to commemorate the 1984 Amritsar massacre and support calls, repeated in the manifesto, for an independent enquiry into UK Government involvement. “For the purposes of supporting the Sikh Manifesto we have drawn a line at the 50 target seats,” added Bhai Amrik Singh. “There are, however, other marginal

How does a solicitor get involved in grassroots sports? My background includes many football influences, resulting in my encouragement to play football for a number of teams, as well as attending many tournaments. As I had sustained injuries, I stopped playing football, so this was what inspired me to give back to the football community. Ultimately, I decided to earn my coaching badge and run sessions for children in the Small Heath area of Birmingham. My involvement with the children varies from

How did the idea of • BYSA: Anwar Khattak Birmingham Youth Sport Academy come about? Originally, we began playing in the Small Heath Park with only a few of my relatives and their friends, then, after some time and with feedback from the community, I decided to make it easier for anyone to come and take part. From then onwards I moved it to the Small Heath Leisure Centre, after a few weeks and

How One Volunteer Changed His Community Established in 2002 as a voluntary organisation to provide sporting facilities in one of Birmingham’s most deprived areas, the Birmingham Youth Sport Academy (BYSA) has been led by some of Birmingham’s leading businessmen. Juggling his voluntary role at the BYSA of Welfare Ofﬁcer, Solicitor Anwar Khattak was recently awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for voluntary services to the community. He sat down with The Asian Today to talk Birmingham, BYSA and BEM. coaching them, getting them into the sport, and teaching them how important it is to be active. As I never had this type of service in my youth, I feel it is important to have a positive influence on the children I am teaching.

with much promotion and hard work, it started bringing in children from around the area. As things started to progress I realised

MANIFESTO NEWS

ts 50 Key ction’

ape key

seats, such as, Nuneaton and Manchester, Withington where the local Sikh vote, although relatively small, will matter. In addition, there also numerous safe seats, such as Birmingham, Selly Oak; Ealing Central & Acton;

that it would be worthwhile to recruit volunteers, it was a learning experience, and we all gained experience from each other. The main goal of this organisation is for the children to feel like they are a part of something,

the commitment of British Sikhs to be actively involved with the political process, and is a great way of empowering the British Sikh community.” Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg said: “The British Sikh community’s energy

“I think the Sikh Manifesto 2015-2020, written by the Sikh Federation UK, demonstrates the commitment of British Sikhs to be actively involved with the political process, and is a great way of empowering the British Sikh community.” Huddersfield; Leicester South; Ealing North; Birmingham, Ladywood; East Ham and Barking that each have thousands of Sikh voters who cannot be ignored.” Representatives from all 250 UK Gurdwaras and UK Sikh organisations are expected to attend the manifesto launch. Party leaders, MPs and candidates from the 50 seats have also been informed of the launch. Those at the launch will hear from speakers from each of the main parties. Party leaders have responded with messages of support for the manifesto. Labour’s Ed Miliband said: “I think the Sikh Manifesto 2015-2020, written by the Sikh Federation UK, demonstrates

“I truly love what I do.”

MARCH 2015

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something affordable and fun. As volunteers support this organisation, any money we earn is spent on the children, and focuses on furthering their skills at the sport; any spare money is given to charity. What kind of services does the BYSA offer? At present, the BYSA opens every Saturday morning from 10:30am to 12:30pm. There is football coaching indoors, and any outdoor session consists of warm ups, drills, circuits, and small-sided

ED MILIBAND and devotion in campaigning to drive forward our shared values of fairness, compassion and tolerance is a priceless contribution to the modern Britain we live in today. The Sikh Manifesto 2015 – 2020 is a further example of this conscientious commitment. I warmly welcome the Sikh Federation’s ambition to encourage the British Sikh community to engage with politics at all levels and I congratulate the Federation for all the hard work it has already done to increase the awareness and importance of social and political activism within the British Sikh community.” games, then matches. For adults or parents of the young players, we also have a Sunday league team, which the older generation can participate in. Every year the BYSA gives a treat to the members by taking vocational and educational trips to major football stadiums such as: Manchester United, Barcelona, and Wembley. Not only this but we find it important to support the children’s education, we do this by offering advice and support in many areas of life such as work and references.

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HEALTH COLUMN BENEFITS OF QUITTING SMOKING No Smoking Day is almost here and this may well be the perfect time to think about giving up smoking. With around 100,000 people dying from smoking a year, it is one of the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest causes of death. Did you know each cigarette has around 4,000 chemicals, many of which are known to be toxic? Ammonia, tar, carbon monoxide and arsenic are some of the chemicals you would breathe in when smoking. Smoking can damage your heart and blood circulation, brain as well as your lungs and cause diseases including heart disease, cervical cancer, lung cancer and stroke. Chewing smokeless tobacco such as paan or gutkha is popular amongst people from south Asian communities. All forms of tobacco can damage your health and using smokeless tobacco raises the risk of mouth cancer. Smoking bidi and shisha can also increase your risk of cancer, heart disease and respiratory disease. The benefits of not smoking are huge and quitting smoking can make a real difference to your lifestyle and health. Here are some of the benefits of giving up smoking: â&#x20AC;˘ Better breathing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Giving up smoking will allow you to breathe more easily and cough less. Lung capacity can also increase by up to 10 percent within nine months of giving up. â&#x20AC;˘ Longer life â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Stopping smoking can not only add years to your life, it can also improve your chances of living a disease-free and mobile life. â&#x20AC;˘ Younger looking skin â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The skin of a non-smoker gets more nutrients and without these nutrients skin can start looking sallow. â&#x20AC;˘ Improved fertility â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Non smokers find it easier to get pregnant and have a reduced chance of having a miscarriage. Being a non-smoker also improves the chances of giving birth to a healthy baby.

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MARCH 2015

Second-hand smoke is linked to 165,000 new cases of disease among children in the UK

BANNED

In the UK around 2 million children are estimated to be regularly exposed to secondhand smoke In the UK between 6.5% - 20% of children are reported to be exposed to SHS in cars, and up to 35% of children whose parents are smokers.

SMOKING IN CARS New legislation hailed "a victory for children's health"

â&#x20AC;˘ NHS: Sarah Stables

â&#x20AC;˘ More energy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Within two to 12 weeks of stopping smoking your circulation will improve and, as a result, you will be able to walk and run more easily. Giving up smoking can also boost your immune system. Making small changes to your lifestyle can play a part in helping you quit. Here are some tips to help you give up smoking. Firstly think positive. Make a plan to stop smoking and stick to it. Create a list of reasons as to why you want to quit. Keep the list in a place where you can see it. Chances of having cancer, heart attacks or stroke as well as your blood pressure going down are some of the reasons you may wish to include on your list. Talk to your friends and family for support. Why not suggest to other smokers you know that you give up together? The more support and encouragement you can get the better. Your local Stop Smoking Service will be able to provide expert advice and support to help you stop smoking. Free â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Quit Kitsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; can be picked up at local pharmacies. The kits will include practical tools and advice to help you quit. Avoid temptation. It might be helpful to avoid situations where you usually smoke. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give in to the temptation to have just one cigarette. Try to distract yourself by doing something else instead. You can get nicotine replacement therapy for free or on prescription from your local NHS Stop Smoking Service or GP. Using nicotine patches will help reduce everyday cravings and you can also use nasal spray, gum, lozenges, inhalator or mouth spray for sudden cravings.

For more advice on how to stop smoking, please visit: www.solihullstopsmoking.co.uk or call 0121 704 6000. No Smoking Day will take place on 11 March 2015. 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.

he ban on smoking in cars has been hailed a great victory for children's health by Birmingham health boss, Cllr John Cotton. The move, which aims to protect under-18s from second-hand smoke, was voted in by 342 MPs, with 74 standing against it. The legislation, which is set to come into force on October 1st, will make a huge difference to the lives of thousands of children in Birmingham, according to Cllr Cotton. Although members of the public are protected in public transport and work vehicles due to the smokefree legislation, large numbers of children are exposed to high and potentially toxic concentrations of second-hand smoke when in their family cars. The new legislation puts the health of children at the forefront. Children are particularly vulnerable to passive smoke due to the smaller size of their lungs and their lesser developed

immune systems, leading them to be more susceptible to respiratory and ear infections triggered by second-hand smoke, which results in more than 165,000 new episodes of disease a year among children in Britain and around 40 sudden deaths of infants. Adults smoking in cars with c h i l d r e n passengers place the

youngsters at particular risk. Research has found that, due to the small, enclosed spaces within cars, a child in the centre of the back seat is exposed to around two thirds of the amount of second-hand smoke in an average smoke-filled pub, even if only a single cigarette is smoked and the car is moving and the window is kept half open. If the car is stationary with the window kept closed, the levels increase to more than 11 times that of a smoke-filled pub.

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A survivor of the Peshawar school attack has undergone an operation in Birmingham. Ahmed Nawaz, aged fifteen, was a student at the Army Public School when the school came under siege by Taliban gunmen in an attack which left 150 people dead. The massacre, which took place on December 16 last year, saw 132 students of the school gunned down within minutes. Ahmad sustained serious injuries to his left arm and was flown to Birmingham's Queen Elizabeth Hospital where he was given treatment. The Pakistani Government confirmed last month that it would organise treatment abroad if deemed necessary for the year nine pupil, with reports suggesting that ÂŁ200,000 had been put aside by the government to cover expenses. Father, Mohammed Nawaz said that he was relieved that his son was now out of danger and was sitting up and talking.

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MARCH 2015

NHS TREATMENT REFUSED By Amrit Matharu

Glitzy Event Celebrates In Touch with Walsall Anniversary

alsall-based Business regeneration b u s i n e s s networking schemes in Walsall organisation In Touch With need people with Walsall celebrated its first ‘effervescent’ birthday with a glittering black-tie event. personalities, like Ali, to Working with a wide range spearhead and lead from of organisations in both the the front. Professor Gatrad public and private sectors, In Touch With Walsall works • IN TOUCH: (Top Row Left to Right) Professor Gatrad OBE and the Deputy Lieutenant to Her Majesty the Queen, Balbir Singh from Equity Chambers, to identify and exploit Deputy Mayor Lynn Bhalla, Ali Intouch, Ghulam Shabar from Bukhari Travel, Imran Azam market opportunities for Underhill said of the from Chivers Commercial, Mike Hew, Mr Aslam MBE from MIAT. (Bottom commercial enterprise, celebration, “The evening Left to Right) Jev Bhalla Interim Principle from WACC, Mr John Underhill growth, development and was thoroughly enjoyable “Consort”, Cllr Angela Underhill Deputy Mayor of Walsall, Cllr Mohammed investment. and the entertainment Nazir Portfolio holder of Regeneration In the prestigious was brilliant. Ali himself surroundings of the town’s is entertaining and larger premier car dealership than life. His personality Mercedes-Benz of Walsall, shines through; we look who are members of the forward to joining him at #ITWW family, guests were his next event.” treated to the glitz and Professor Gatrad added, "Business glamour of event. regeneration schemes The showroom, normally in Walsall need people full of gleaming luxury • IN TOUCH: Dogan Dogan from Hellofoto, Ben InTouch Slym from In Touch with ‘effervescent’ vehicles, was transformed With Walsall, Ravi from Fiver River, Cliff Wynn from Quality Signs & personalities, like Ali, Engraving, Ali InTouch founder and MD of In Touch With Walsall, Kindi by #ITWW members for Sunner from Five Rivers, Jas Dulay from Best Man Official, Greg Bethell from to spearhead and lead the evening into a highMercedes-Benz of Walsall, Richard Harper from Duncan James of Walsall from the front. With end nightclub with live continued success, and entertainment, a LED local involvement of more bringing local businesses together so illuminated dance floor, sleek and more businesses, Walsall will truly they can grow and support each other.” silver tables and chairs and subtle become a vibrant borough” The black-tie affair was attended by lighting. Cllr Nazir said, “I would like to VIPs HW the Deputy Mayor of Walsall, Guests were asked to dress to the congratulate Ali and In Touch With Cllr Angela Underhill, Portfolio Holder nines to help celebrate an actionWalsall on their first anniversary. As for Regeneration, Cllr Mohammed packed first year of activity. Founder regeneration portfolio holder, I am Nazir and Professor Gatrad OBE, and Director, Ali Mahmood, said “I am keen to support businesses that are Deputy Lieutenant of Her Majesty The very humbled and proud of what we’ve helping to create job opportunities for Queen and Freeman of Walsall to name achieved in a very short time – we have people in Walsall.” but a few. 80 members and we’re growing fast,

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• SUKHVINDER RAYAT: The weight loss inspiration lost 13 stone in 4 years

our years ago in August 2011, Sukhvinder Rayat, now 44-years-old from Hitchin, had the shock of his life when what he thought were stomach cramps actually turned out to be a heart attack. It was soon discovered that Sukhvinder experienced a heart attack due to obesity, weighing 29 stone. He was put on emergency medicine, and had a stent placed inside his artery which was blocked by an alarming 65%. Doctors had said that no matter what they did for him, he had to lose weight. For himself and for the sake of his family, Sukhvinder turned his life around. With the help of personal trainer Martin Penny, Sukhvinder began his journey of extreme weight loss in 2011. “It’s a total change in eating habits rather than a diet,” explains Sukhvinder. Cutting out pasties and takeaways and introducing lots more fruit and vegetables was an important move for the weight loss

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journey. To date, Sukhvinder’s total weight loss is 13 stone. The current issue Sukhvinder faces from the NHS is that, due his intense weight loss, he has a large amount of excess skin, weighing up to 2 stone, which is causing high pressure on his lower back. Most importantly, it’s not allowing him to be fully confident with his body which, after all his hard work, he should be allowed to feel. Sukhvinder says the NHS have said that if in the past he had undergone gastric banding they would have provided him with the funding to have the excess skin removed. However, due to Sukhvinder putting in all the hard work himself, they will not provide funding for this. “The NHS should sit up and take notice of this changed man, no longer a drain on services. They should not turn their back on him at the final hurdle,” protests trainer Martin Penny.

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HONOURS 7/7 Survivor Picks up OBE "Helping to tackle online extremism is a way for people to safeguard their children and to ultimately safeguard society" • HONOURS: Sajda Mughal Collects Her OBE From Buckingham Palace

community worker who survived the 7/7 London bombings has spoken of her sadness about the three UK schoolgirls who fled to Syria to join Islamic State. Sajda Mughal said people had “underestimated the power of the internet to radicalise and groom vulnerable youngsters, but now wider society is picking upon that". Mrs Mughal was a 22-year-old city worker who had been lucky to escape serious injury in the July 2005 bombings. Having been affected by the blasts in the capital at the hands of fellow Muslims and seeing the rise of Islamophobia, Mrs Mughal quit her job as head of recruitment at an investment bank to work closely within her own community. Setting up the JAN Trust, she works with women, mainly from ethnic minorities, to help them integrate into society, but also to combat online extremism. After collecting her OBE for services to community cohesion and inter-faith dialogue, she said, "Hearing that these young vulnerable girls have gone halfway around the world is saddening and traumatic. My thoughts go out to the

family. These are vulnerable girls who have been manipulated with an ideology." The mother-of-two, from Wood Green, north London, received her award from the Prince of Wales in a ceremony at Buckingham Palace. Mrs Mughal was on her way to work when 19-year-old Germaine Lindsay detonated his bomb on a Piccadilly line Tube train between King's Cross and Russell Square. She said, "Having gone through 7/7 myself, I do not want (to see) another 7/7. My work is to try and prevent such an attack. I would not wish what I experienced that day, the trauma, and what I have seen to happen to another person. "Luckily I was not physically hurt. Had I got on to that first carriage I probably would not be sat here today, because the bomb was on the first carriage. It was only because I was running late. "What I saw that day, and even with the flashbacks (that I still get), I would not wish it on anyone." “Helping to tackle online extremism is a way for people to safeguard their children and to ultimately safeguard society", she added.

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• #MAKINGASTAND: Sending a

Event Declares Women are the Best Weapon against Extremism A group of women have met in Birmingham to discuss ways of how they can fight extremism. Under the campaign of #MakeaStand, created by Inspire – the counter extremism organisation, the event was organised before three teenage schoolgirls left Britain, heading for the Islamic State. Sarah Khan, Director of Inspire said, “We know that these three girls from East London are following in the footsteps of 60 other young

women. Women are the backbone of our communities and the first line of defence against radicalisers. We know that our role in challenging extremism is vital and honourable. As British Muslim women, we value and believe in the principles of democracy, human rights and respect for all life. “This is in complete contrast to the sheer evil and barbarism of the very ‘un-Islamic’ extremist groups who murder, rape and steal in the name of

clear message, Muslim women make a stand

Islam. Abhorrent groups like ISIS and Al Qaida distort the teachings of our faith and are a menace to our way of life our families, communities and women’s rights. “We believe it is imperative to reclaim our faith from extremists who have hijacked it to falsely justify their barbarity. “We call on British Muslim women to stand in solidarity and join us at #MakingAStand events.” Islamic State have been able to use social media to spread global propaganda.

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others Day is just around the corner, a day to honour the women who gave us life and to make them feel special. But when it comes to national days such as Mother’s Day there tends to be a mixed reaction on how to do it right. Is there a right way to celebrate Mother’s Day? First let’s dive into the often obscure history of these annual celebrations. Mother’s Day first began in the United States by an activist named Anna Jarvis, who in memorial to her own mother, introduced a national day where people honour their mothers both living and dead. Across the ocean in the UK however we had Mothering Sunday, the day children who worked as domestic servants were given the day off to visit their families, picking up flowers as a small gift to their mothers. Eventually the two days merged during WW2 when American soldiers arrived on English soil giving us one day; Mothers Day. Decades later Mother’s Day has become a huge annual tradition celebrated by many, which brings us to a big issue people have with it; commercialism. To this day we see flowers, confectionary, jewellery and of course greeting cards which are sold. People can often feel pressured to spend in order to show good will on these occasions. So what can be done differently? Professor Ralph Fevre offers her take, “we don't want the day to disappear or for people to stop treating their mothers. We

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want people to focus on what the day is about…most mothers would be happier with a homemade card because it shows some thought and effort has been put into it.” Many people today are finding more varied ways of honouring motherhood which may make Jarvis proud. American group ‘Moms Demand Action’ will be marching in their eighth annual ‘Mother's Day Eve March Against Gun Violence’ where they will be honouring mothers who have lost their children to gun violence. Professor Fevre even revealed she worked on a cake stall on Mother's Day to raise money for HIV mothers in Africa. In the end how you choose to celebrate Mother’s Day is a personal choice, let’s not forget Anna Jarvis’s purpose for Mother’s Day, “I wanted it to be a day of sentiment, not profit.” As illustrated by ‘Moms Demand Action’ you can still recognise Mother’s Day with your own twist on the tradition, it is after all a day to honour mothers. Maybe we can take a leaf out of the book of children on Mothering Sunday and pick some of our own flowers.

“I wanted it to be a day of sentiment, not profit.”

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VOTERS UNITED WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM

Faith Councils Unite to Encourage Voting Registration

Politics affects us all, and so this is the time for everyone to have their say and make a difference.”

The Hindu Council UK has been chosen as the 'lead' organisation by the Election Commission for their National UK-Wide Campaign to get more ethnic minorities to vote. Amid concerns about the number of people who are not currently on the electoral register, campaigning bodies such as Operation Black Vote (OBV) want to highlight the value of the vote and how to register. Those groups particularly underrepresented on the voter register are young adults and people from Black minority ethnic (BME) communities. Black and minority ethnic voters have been handed

the greatest opportunity ever to effectively engage in British politics. OBV’s groundbreaking research clearly shows that the BME vote could easily decide over 160 seats. The Coalition Government has governed the UK with a working majority of just 83 seats. The BME electorate could influence an even greater number of seats if, as predicted, the election contest becomes ever tighter. Research by the Electoral Commission shows that 76 per cent of BME people are currently registered to vote, ten per cent less than white people. To redress this imbalance, OBV has commissioned a specially converted coach to visit areas

with high BME populations to encourage and enable people to vote. It will have 12 computer stations so that people can register online A spokesperson for the Hindu Council UK said, “The right to vote has been hard-won, and it is the duty of everyone in public life, including the government, to make sure everyone who is eligible to vote is able to vote. Just by being registered gives you a voice… allows you to sit on juries as a Jury member and above politicians will listen to you as they know you have the power to decide who wins and who loses in the forthcoming the General Election. So, register today and use that vote on 7 May 2015.” OBV, which works to increase political representation of Black and Minority Ethnic communities, is taking the OBV eXpress bus around the country to areas with high BME populations. Jenny Watson, Chair of the Electoral Commission, said: “It’s good to see so many faith organisations stressing the importance of registering to vote. We know that Britain’s BME communities are under-

represented on the electoral register, and you can be part of changing that by taking the time to register to vote.” Ade Omooba and Dr R David Muir, Co-Chairs of the National Church Leaders Forum, said: "The May General Election will be one of the most significant in recent decades, but if you

want to vote on polling day you must be on the electoral register. The National Church Leaders Forum is encouraging everyone to take action. It’s really easy to register and by doing so you can secure your say on the issues that matter to you". Gurmel Singh, Secretary General of Sikh Council

MARCH 2015

UK, said: “A cornerstone of a democratic society is having your voice heard and influencing the future through the ballot box. Sikh Council UK is pleased to be able to work with the Electoral Commission to promote voter registration amongst Sikhs in the UK." Dr Shuja Shafi, Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Britain, said: “The Muslim Council of Britain is delighted to be working with the Electoral Commission to encourage Muslims across the UK to register to vote for the upcoming General Election. Politics affects us all, and so this is the time for everyone to have their say and make a difference.”

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INSPIRED BY GANDHI Birmingham-based arts organisation Sampad South Asian Arts has launched the third international creative writing competition in its enormously popular ‘Inspired By…’ series. The new competition, Inspired by Gandhi, invites budding writers from anywhere in the world, from the age of 8 upwards, to reflect on the life, philosophy and vision of Mahatma Gandhi and to share their personal inspirations relating to the great leader, in the form of a poem, short story or piece of reportage. The competition was formally launched at the Kochrab Ashram, a retreat in Ahmedabad, India which was founded by Gandhi in 1915 as a centre for his followers to study the

ORGAN DONATION DRIVE Rising Interest from Asian Community

concepts of human equality and self-sufficiency and to carry out work to uplift the poor.

HOLI – A CELEBRATION OF COLOUR Jai Jashn Dance Holds Its Annual Event Following the sold-out success of last year's event, the Jai Jashn Dance return once again with 'Holi - A Celebration Of Colour' on Sat 28th March 15 at 7.30pm & Sun 29th March 15 at 2pm. The event celebrates the rich and diverse culture of India, and will include music and dance performances by Jai Jashn Dance, Sonia Sabri’s Kathakaars Dancers, Desi Nach, Chitraleka Dance Academy, Gabru Panjab De, SonAash Sisters along with other independent artists and groups. All tickets are £7. Venue is Arena Theatre (WV1 1SE). Call the box office on 01902

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• HOLI: Wolverhampton's Annual Event Kicks ff This Month 321321 or online at http://wlv.ticketsolve. com/shows/873525053/events?show_ id=873525053. Jai Jashn Dance is a Wolverhampton based community dance group. Founded as in 2012 from a small community group which started in 2008 to explore the cultural dance heritage of India, the group have gone on to performed across the West Midlands for many local cultural events.

Health Campaigners from the Asian Rationalist Society Britain (ARSB) are celebrating the success from their latest Blood and Organ donation drive, targeted particularly amongst members from the South Asian community across Birmingham and the Black Country. To address the lack of organ donors from the South Asian communities, ARSB volunteers have been engaged in a project to raise awareness of the need for members from the community to sign up to the organ donation register list. ARSB’s Project Manager, Mr Ravi Kumar, said, “South Asian people in the UK are three times more likely to need an organ transplant. But only 1% of people on the NHS Organ Donor Register are from our community. Organ donation is not something that you think about every day... but the reality is that it may affect any one of us, our friends, families and community at any time. “On average, 3 people who need a transplant die

• ORGAN DONATION: ARSB Volunteers with Staff from City Hospital in Birmingham every day in the UK. As a community at high risk, we really need to act now to prevent more people having to wait so long for a donated organ. To stop this happening we need to actively encourage more people from the South Asian community to register to donate organs after their death and to tell their family and friends about their wishes.” ARSB’s General Secretary, Mr Sachdev Virdee, said, “We have been engaged in an active campaign, visiting local places of worship, engaging in local radio stations, and community television

channels discussions to raise awareness of the dire need for South Asians to donate their organs. Some people are not sure whether their religion would prevent them from agreeing to donate their organs after death – yet all the major faiths in the UK support the principles of organ donation and transplantation.” “We have submitted 59 completed application forms to join the organ donation register, which we collected during our many talks and community engagements across Birmingham and the Black Country.”

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Planning is Half the Work Planning for the biggest day of your life is no easy feat. From choosing the perfect venue to hiring the most scrumptious catering, the day has to go without any glitch. Whether you go down the traditional route of getting advice from your parents or whether you hire a wedding planner, the fact is all couples at some point are going to need help at some point. To help you understand the essentials of wedding planning, we have put together a short guide on what you should be looking out for.

Proposal Expressing yourself to the love of your life may not be difficult, but the day you ask her to marry you is probably the one day that you HAVE to get it right the first time. Plan and ask yourself, how do you want to do this? It's going to be a story that you're going to be telling over and over again. Make it a memorable one. Make it a personal one. Above all, make it a unique one.

Theme Themes for weddings are on the up. Every bride and groom want to be able create a theme that is different to any other wedding, something which stands out. Ultimately, making sure you yourselves, along with your guests, are comfortable and relaxed is the ultimate goal.

Venue The countryside, the city or going international; the perfect wedding venue is one of the biggest decisions when planning for your wedding. The easiest way to choose is to go with your theme. However, keep in mind that the venue that you choose has to be able to accompany all on your guest list.

Catering Plan the wedding of your dreams with the most exquisitely tasting food. It’s not a secret that guests at Asian weddings LOVE their food…and additionally, it’s not a secret that YOU WILL BE JUDGED ON THIS! Cater for different needs. You do not need an elaborate looking menu; something that will quench the taste buds of your guests will be enough.

DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER With a price tag of £100,000 and being heavily encrusted with diamonds, a Birmingham based designer has created the most expensive Asian wedding dress. It weights more than 30 kilos and is draped with scrumptious white silk whilst maintaining the traditional Asian look. Created by celebrity • DESIGNER: couturist Sati Takhar, who Sati Takhar is based in Birmingham’s Soho Road, the dress was officially unveiled at the recent The Asiana Bridal Show in London. The lengha being so valuable, it has to be kept in a glass and watched over by a security guard. “We’ve created the ultimate fantasy, an outfit that is so exquisite we’re placing it inside a glass box!” says Sati, who has been a bridal designer for more than 10 years.

ASIAN BRIDE LIVE After hosting several show stopping Asian Wedding Shows in some of the most prestigious venues Asian Bride Live is now returning to the ICC Birmingham for the second year running on Sunday 15thMarch 2015. Brought to you by the publishers of the UK’s biggest Asian wedding publication, Asian Bride magazine, the show will feature a great selection of the UK’s biggest wedding vendors from the best boutiques, photographers and cake makers to the finest makeup artists, décor

companies and caterers. Last year’s show in Birmingham saw thousands of brides-to-be piece together their dream weddings in just one day, and the Asian Bride team are excited to help couples plan their perfect day once again. In addition to this there’ll be the finest in wedding entertainment from dancers to magicians, cabaret acts and musicians, not to mention the best DJs in town. But, the biggest extravaganza will be the Asian Bride Live catwalk, which has now been upgraded to its own room to create even more theatre for the day. With so many of the industry’s finest under one roof, there is guarantee that a few dream weddings will be created in just one day.

Décor It’s the little things that will give your wedding that extra speciality. When selecting the décor, make sure you select items that contrast your look and theme. Do not just select a mixture of different items. Ultimately, be as simple as can be, as the décor will need to complement your event, your outfit, and the atmosphere you are trying to create for your wedding.

Wedding Outfits Probably the most important aspect to any wedding is WHAT WILL YOU BE WEARING? Saree or bridal lenghas says a great deal about a bride's dreams, her family and her times, and will also become an important keepsake of the Asian wedding day. In recent years the Asian fashion limelight has zoomed in on Asian grooms wear and as a result, British Asian men are beginning to opt for traditional wear.

Transport It is a well-known fact that you cannot have a wedding without the most flashiest of cars. The entourage of vehicles would probably consist of some big names within the motor industry. I’m assuming the feeling of driving down in a Porsche or a Bentley to collect your dulhan is better than rolling down in a beat Micra. As I said, it is all about creating memories.

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Edgbaston Cricket Ground Edgbaston Cricket Ground is a large capacity venue that can cater for up to 650 guests within a variety of luxury rooms that are both unique in appearance and steeped in cricketing history. This year, the Stadium plays host to the 3rd Test of the Ashes and the Pakistan Test in 2016, making it an exciting time for the Stadium and a perfect venue to hold your special day here with us. We work with a hand-picked network of professional suppliers and our dedicated team are on hand to help make your day magical, and the process seamless. With views of the iconic pitch as a beautiful backdrop to your wedding, and ample on-site car parking, Edgbaston Cricket Ground is a perfect venue for your special occasion. For more information, please contact Navneet Mangat on 0121 446 3632 or navneetmangat@edgbaston.com

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ituated in the heart of Sparkbrook and elegantly structured, Zymal’s is the perfect banqueting hall for your occasion. At Zymal’s we understand the importance of creating memories, that is why we aim to offer our clients expert guidance in order to assist them in creating their special event. We offer a wide range of services from basic hall hire to a complete package, fulﬁlling your individual needs. We also provide a complete catering service; in-house and across the country for any occasion. Our high quality and fresh ingredients amongst our experienced chefs ensure you will be satisﬁed with every mouthful. Contact us today to discuss your individual requirements because you can rely on Zymal’s for a professional, reliable and quality service. Whatever the occasion, we are in the ideal location close to Birmingham City Centre and will thrive towards perfection to make your event unforgettable.

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231 Montgomery Street Birmingham B11 1DS

t: 0121 772 8822 w: www.zymals.com e: zymals@hotmail.co.uk

EDUCATION

Birmingham City University’s Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences department is to provide joint awards in nursing with the University of Mauritius. This is the first time that the University will offer nursing qualifications in partnership with another institution. Students in Mauritius will be able to study a three year BSc (Hons) in General Nursing, with a top up programme a l s o provided to allow c u r r e n t nurses to achieve a full degree.

Wolverhampton Given over £9m to Supply More Places to Schools

Spike in Demand for School Places

Wolverhampton has been allocated nearly £10m to help create hundreds of new school places in the city. The City of Wo l v e r h a m p t o n Council has been granted £9.7m from

the Government's £1.6bn Basic Needs Allocation, with schools across the city being expanded to meet a rising demand for places. Education chiefs predict a spike in the number of

pupils starting primary education in Wolverhampton this year and next. They expect around 3,600 pupils to join the city’s primary schools in the 2015 academic year and 3,500 pupils in 2016, falling back to

There’s an App for That!

• APP: Liam

Doolan and Moeez Ali

Graduates Design Unique Clothing App T

wo Loughborough graduates have designed a smartphone app which allows users to take a picture of an item of clothing, worn by someone, and finding out where the item can be brought from and how much it may cost. The simple idea is set to make Liam Doolan and Moeez Ali a fortune. “It’s like being in the

SATURDAY 14 MARCH 10.00 AM – 2.00 PM • Course and careers information • ‘Have a go’ activities

“It’s like being in the Highcross, with your own personal shopper – but you can do it from the pub, your office, where you are – online,”

Highcross, with your own personal shopper – but you can do it from the pub, your office, where you are – online,” says Liam. “The way it works, through image recognition, is simple – but unique.” Called Comb, the app is free to download on iPhone and Android. “It’s exceeding our expectations. There was no grand launch, he says. No expensive marketing campaign or flash promotional push. They sent it out on social media – “it’s our background, we

approximately 3,300 in 2017. As a result, an additional 465 permanent places are being created at Bilston CE Primary, Eastfield Primary, Manor Primary and Westacre Infant schools, while a total of 270 temporary places will be introduced across Bushbury Hill Primary, Loxdale Primary, St Martin's CE Primary, Stowlawn Primary and West Park Primary schools. A potential 10th scheme is subject to final confirmation.

know how to do that,” he says. We did a lot of research. We took a methodical, old school approach – we looked into every angle, how we could make it work, asking companies if they were interested. The feedback we received was brilliant. “America, generally, is a year or two years ahead of us with things like this. But they didn’t have it. They had nothing like this. There was clearly a gap in the market.”

Open Day

OPEN DAY ACCESS ALL AREAS:

EDUCATION

THE ASIAN TODAY BCU TO HOST JOINT AWARDS

MARCH 2015

WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM

Saturday 14th March 10.00 am – 2.00 pm

Apprenticeships available in many areas

Visit www.dudleysixth.co.uk or call 0800 783 6095

The toughest and meanest dinosaur was likely to have been Deinonychus. It was only about 1.5 metres tall, 2.7 metres long and weighed about as much as an average man.

Provoking Thought

Visit www.dudleycol.ac.uk or call 01384 363 072 for details The Broadway, Dudley, West Midlands DY1 4AS.

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2015

BOOK SYNOPSIS The Perfect Match

AWA R D CAT E G O R IE S • • • •

THE ASIAN AWARDS, FRIDAY 17TH APRIL 2015 GROSVENOR HOUSE, PARK LANE, LONDON

THE ONLY PAN-ASIAN, PAN-SECTOR AWARDS CEREMONY IN THE WORLD… The Asian Awards celebrate the highest achievement from across the international Asian community. Open to individuals born in or with direct family origin from Asia, The Asian Awards reward outstanding achievement across all disciplines of life.

• • • • • • • • •

Business Leader of the Year Entrepreneur of the Year Social Entrepreneur of the Year Outstanding Achievement in Science & Technology Outstanding Achievement in The Arts Outstanding Achievement in Television Outstanding Achievement in Cinema Outstanding Achievement in Music Outstanding Achievement in Sport Outstanding Contribution to Sustainability Philanthropist of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award Public Servant of the Year

THE DUBAI PROPERTY SHOW A

Author: Sahdaish Pall

Nikita comes from an Indian family with strict values and practices. She’s always been the obedient daughter, never giving her parents any reason to doubt her. They are so proud of her. She always knew that she would have an arranged marriage and then one day her family introduces her to Sam, who is studying to become a solicitor, is handsome and charming and has great future prospects. Nikita isn’t happy about marrying a total stranger, but she doesn’t have the heart or the guts to refuse and decides that she will grow to love this man. Her parents are over the moon. Things don’t turn out the way she dreamt and Sam isn’t the man she thought he was. Nikita harbors a dark secret she keeps from her family

and friends, because she feels so ashamed and it would mean letting her parents down and breaking their heart. One night it all goes too far. She wakes the following day and realises she has to escape the nightmare. After sneaking out of the house at night and phoning the police, she ends up in a women's refuge where she finds time to think about herself. Having moved into a flat with a friend that she made at the refuge, Nikita spends the next year alone without any of her family, trying to rebuild her life. That’s when she decides to look for work and signs up with a recruitment agency, who find her a job working as a PA. Betrayed by people close to her, Nikita must learn to trust again. Just when Nikita thought that things were looking up, she comes head to head with her worst nightmare. She must choose to either run, or turn and face him.

Expanding the Future of Growth

decade of hard work, smart ideas and some groundbreaking achievments is what sums up Harmeek Singh’s journey in the UAE. Founder and owner of Plan b, Harmeek Singh formed the group’s first entity, Plan b Advertising in 2004. Thanks to Harmeek’s innovative approach towards even the conventional tasks, Plan b not only gained recognition amongst a very impressive client list, but has also retained them since. Harmeek is and has been involved in the management of some of the UAE’s biggest public events, and creative campaigns including Summerin Abu Dhabi, Dubai Rugby 7s, the Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon, Fifa U17 Draw Ceremony in addition to launching some of the world’s finest brands including the Bentley – New Flying Spur. “You need to be able to know what the client wants and needs to do. PR and marketing is very important as to what

product you are floating into the market.” Under Harmeek’s maverick, sometimes unorthodox but alwayscapable management, Plan b Group comprises of five companies today including Plan b Advertising, Plan b Events, SiO2 Events, the group’s PR, Social Media & Strategy wing bSocialand bMovies. He has also recently taken on the Dubai Property Show where he intends to let people know that Dubai properties are “aggressively looking for growth,” allowing himself more opportunities in the UK. “The Dubai market is available for property investments and there is a lot of growth, so we are eager for people to know that there are avenues available for them to invest. We are targeting investors that are looking to shift base. We are also targeting people that are looking to migrate. Dubai is an incredible place to live. Its openness to growth and all nationalities

www.planbadv.com

living together harmoniously is its most appealing factor.” When asked about his own ambitions, Harmeek said he wanted to explore new avenues.

The Dubai market is available for property investments and there is a lot of growth, so we are eager for people to know that there are avenues available for them to invest.

info@planbadv.com

+971(4) 3390031 - 43

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DESI

INSIDE INSIDE

MEERA GANATRA INTERVIEW

PREmature BY ROHITH S. KATBAMNA & TERRY MARDI

XPRESS

PG. 38

NO.1 FOR ASIAN ENTERTAINMENT SINGER SET TO LEAD UDTA PUNJAB

DILJIT AND KAREENA?

DILJIT DOSANJH set for Bollywood debut PG. 36

Deepika Padukone to Make Singing Debut PG. 36

A ROYAL PERFORMANCE

LONDON TURNS BOLLYWOOD AT THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL PREMIERE

Tina Desai ARRIVES

IN STYLE

lavish set of marigold flowers and a bright orange carpet greeted guests as they arrived to the world premiere of The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, directed by John Madden. The Royal guests of honour were joined by members of the cast and crew including stars Dame Judi Dench, Dame Maggie Smith, Celia Imrie, Ronald Pickup, Tina Desai, Lillete Dubey, Diana Hardcastle, Shazad Latif, director John Madden, writer Ol Parker and producer Graham Broadbent. Tina Desai, who arrived in style in a glammed-up rickshaw, looked stunning in a designer lehnga outfit with shimmering mirror work. Co-star Lillete

property now that his first venture, ‘The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel for the Elderly and Beautiful’, has only a single remaining vacancy – posing a rooming predicament for fresh arrivals Guy (Richard Gere) and Lavinia (Tamsin Greig). Evelyn and Douglas (Judi Dench and Bill Nighy) have now joined the Jaipur workforce, and are wondering where their regular dates for Chilla "It was like those places you go to in pancakes will lead, Hotel. your childhood and think won’t be the while Norman and Carol (Ronald Pickup T h e same, but it was, only better.” and Diana Hardcastle) Second are negotiating B e s t the tricky waters of an exclusive Exotic Marigold Hotel is the relationship, as Madge (Celia Imrie) expansionist dream of Sonny (Dev juggles two eligible and very wealthy Patel), and it’s making more claims suitors. As the demands of a traditional on his time than he has available, Indian wedding threaten to engulf them considering his imminent marriage to all, an unexpected way forward presents the love of his life, Sunaina (Tina Desai). itself. Sonny has his eye on a promising Dubey who stars as Mrs Kapoor looked equally striking in a white sari. The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, which went on general release on 26th February is a sequel to the smash hit first film The Best Exotic Marigold

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BACK TO LOVE

DILJIT AND KAREENA? Gossip columns are rife with speculation that Punjabi singing-sensation, Diljit Dosanjh will be making his Bollywood debut alongside Kareena Kapoor-Khan. Diljit has recently launched Ishq Haazir Hai, a short movie for Valentine’s Day, whilst Kareena was last seen in Singham Returns opposite Ajay Devgan. The lead role of the Abhishek Chaubey latest movie, Udta Punjab, was reported to be given to Khoobsurat actor, Fawad Khan; however, the Bollywood grapevine suggests otherwise. Awkwardly, the conﬁrmed cast also involves Kareena’s e-boyfriend Shahid Kapoor, who will be playing opposite Alia Bhatt. The movie is set to start ﬁlming towards the start of the month.

New Drama Challenges Trials of Youth

school loner Prem is about to discover some harsh realities of growing up. Prem will see that he’s the underdog about to ﬁnd out what it takes to truly mature in a life that’s already given him the middle ﬁnger.

THE FAIRYTALE

PRINCESS British actress Karen David has landed herself a fairytale role as Princess Isabella Lucia Maria Elizabetta of Valencia, in the new American drama Galavant. Karen’s character seeks out and engages a once-gallant prince in order to save her people from an evil king in the comedy extravaganza Galavant. On the role, Karen expressed her delight. “I saw that this show was something that was so uniquely different. I mean, it is not every day that you come across a musical comedy set in medieval times. When I read the ﬁrst episode, it was 22 minutes of pure sheer delight and laughter. This little kid in me was coming out while I was reading it. I was so excited. Honestly, this really is a dream role. I have been very fortunate and very blessed to come this far in my career because of people like Dan who are not afraid to think outside the box and take chances.”

IO TIT

To celebrate the release of The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel on 26th February we are offering you the chance to win some amazing goodies for the ﬁlm! To be in with a chance to win, all you have to do is answer this SIMPLE question!

A colourful array of merchandise to be won! Prize Includes: T-Shirt, Tote Bag, Notebook, Travel Wallet and Luggage Tag.

Navin Kundra Delievers New Romantic Song

(Love is Life)’ just in time for Valentine’s day. “Jind is based on a true love story that I just had to immortalise in a song. The lyrics tell that story,” revealed Navin. ‘Jind’ is a rich acoustic masterpiece with a Spanish inﬂuence that pulls on your heart

strings from the outset. The song is co-produced by Ramzi (of ‘Love is Blind’ fame) who has also played guitar on the track along with Paul Sampson, and features stunning Cello pieces by internationally acclaimed musician, Alison Gabrielle.

TAMASHA: Directed By: Imtiaz Ali Starting: Ranbir Kapoor

“I saw that this show was something that was so uniquely different.

P OM

SHO

After delivering a series of successful love songs like ‘Tere Liye’, ‘Tukde Tukde’, ‘Aaja’, ‘Forever’ and most recently his Hindi Mix cover of John Legend’s ‘All Of Me’, award-winning singer, Navin Kundra is preparing to released his new love song ‘Jind

Bollywood debut set for DILJIT DOSANJH KAREN DAVID NEW GALLANT ROLE

Community Channel’s first ever drama, largely financed through a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign, PREMature is a graphic and emotional series that looks at the challenges young people face. The first episode was gripping coming of age drama, PREMature follows the life of a troubled teenager, Prem, as he struggles to cope following the death of his grandmother and traumatic divorce of his parents. Set in Greater West London, this potent and graphic ensemble series, sees a teenager attempt to carve his own path to manhood, as both he and those around him venture in to the light and dark sides of life. With turbulence in all parts of his life coming to a head, high

SHOWBIZ

BOLLYWOOD TO BHANGRA: Asian Entertainment Lowdown

SINGER SET TO LEAD UDTA PUNJAB

PREMature

SHOWBIZ

This film features which famous Hollywood star? a) Hugh Jackman b) Richard Gere c) John Travolta Email your answer to competition@theasiantoday.com Competition Closing Date: 18th March 2015 All correct entries will be placed in a prize draw and the lucky winner will be contacted after the closing date.

IT’S ALL A BIG TAMASHA

Deepika Padukone to Make Singing Deb

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FINALLY!

TOP10

Amar, Akbar & Tony Gets Release Date

WITH KAMAL CHOPRA

KAM CHOPRA

BOLLYWOOD

WORKING VERY HARD

Sushant’s Difficulty with Detective Byomkesh Bakshy

Playing the title role in Dibakar Banerjee’s period sleuth film Detective Byomkesh Bakshy! was challenging for Sushant Singh Rajput and he says he has worked very hard to get his act right in the movie. The 29-year-old actor said that before doing the film he did his fair share of research on Bengali literature’s most loved fictional detective created by Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay. “I knew that I had the resources and researches. The bottom line was the authority to play the character Byomkesh. I was aware of what not to do on-screen. Filmmaking is all about what we like to do on-screen. We have attempted that in the film. I have worked very hard to perform the character,” said Rajput. The film is set in Kolkata and has been extensively shot in the city as well as Mumbai. The first motion poster of director Dibakar Banerjee's Detective Byomkesh Bakshy! features daring detective Byomkesh Bakshy played by Sushant Singh Rajput, in war torn Kolkata of 1942-43. The motion poster features dhoti-clad Sushant against the backdrop of Kolkata's iconic Howrah Bridge in his stint to save the city from Japanese invasion. The poster shows the city being bombed by Japanese choppers and a young detective trying to do his duty with full conviction.

but

LOVE MOVIES?

TURN OVER TO SEE NEW RELEASES AND FILM OF THE MONTH CHECK OUT

After the likes of Alia Bhatt in Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania and Shraddha Kapoor in Ek Villian, the time has, apparently, come for Bollywood’s Princess to make her singing debut. Deepika Padukone is being lined up to use her singing voice for her next movie, Tamasha. Directed by Imtiaz Ali whose movies include Jab We Met, Rockstar and Highway, Tamasha will also star Ranbir Kapoor, opposite Deepika, the fourth movie the duo will be starring in together. Ranbir will be playing the character of a nomad who serendipitously meets the character of Deepika, who is on a trail of her favourite cartoon characters, Asterix and Obelix. The two bond over their love for the comic series and end up becoming troupe artists, performing all over the island in France.

DETECTIVE BYOMKESH BAKSHY! releasing worldwide on 3rd APRIL 2015

Thicker Than

THIEVES

ZAYN MALIK AND NAUGHTY BOY'S BUDDING FRIENDSHIP One Direction star Zayn Malik and Naughty Boy have been spending quite some time together…all for a very good reason. The singer and music producer have notched up a very tight friendship with both posting a load of selﬁes of each other on social media, however professionally, they are back in the studio for their next collaboration. Having already produced ‘One Chance to Dance’ – a song that was left of One Direction’s latest album, much to the anger of many fans, the duo are now back in the studio creating their next single. However, both are keeping tight-lipped about their next musical venture. But Naughty Boy did say, “I’ve been really impressed by him and his writing ability.”

DESI

XPRESS

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One of the most anticipated British-Asian movies has ﬁnally been given a release date; and fans do not have to wait that long. Amar, Akbar & Tony is set to be released on April 17 in the UK and with its star-studded cast, it has already become fan favourite. Written and directed by Atul Malhotra, the British Independent

comedy includes a cast of Meera Syal, Neena Wadia, Karen David, Rez Kempton, Goldy Notay and Amrita Acharia. A realistic, multicultural coming-of age comedy drama, Amar, Akbar & Tony follows the lives of three childhood friends as they stumble through life from their carefree twenties into adulthood.

BACK IN ACTION

10 years after his last movie released, Faisal Khan is set to return to return to the land of Bollywood. The brother of actor Aamir, he is due to star in Shiraque Minhaj’s next project, titled ‘Chinar: Daastaan-e-Ishq.” Based on a Urdu novel the movie will be depicting politician Farooq Ahmad Renzu and BOLLYWOOD ACTOR called ‘Jheel Jalti Hai.’ FAISAL KHAN Recent media reports reported Khan stating, “I had stopped acting for a long time now, but when this script came to me, I found it interesting and wanted to act in the film.” Whilst Minhaj stated, “Kashmir is an identity of romanticism and culture but the films made in the last 20 years were on violence. I wanted to change that and wanted to make a film on culture. I came across the novel and saw the real colours of Kashmir in it.”

A FRIENDLY REMINDER Raveena Clarifies Remarks

Chittiyaan Kalaiyaan - Roy

Jee Karda - Badlapur

Tu Hai Ke Nahi - Roy

Khamoshiyan - Title

Sooraj Dooba Hai - Roy

Katra Katra - Title

Phatte Tak Nachna - Dolly Ki Doli

Happy New Year – Lovely

Tu Har Lamha - Khamoshiyan

10 Superman - Tevar

BHANGRA 1 Ishq Haazir Hai - Diljit Dosanjh 2 Kanwar Grewal & MoneySpinner – Ticketan

3 Dil Bankeh - Sunny Hayrre 4 Time Table - Kulwinder Billa 5 Kaash - Bilal Saeed 6 Buk Len De - Kay V Singh 7 Law - Preet Harpal 8 Lovely vs Pu - Ravinder Grewal 9 Jump to the Bhangra - Bupps Saggu 10 Diljit Dosanjh - Patila Peg

UK 1

Mark Ronson & Bruno Mars – Uptown

Hozier – Take me to church

Fergie – L.A. Love (La La)

Meghan Trainor – Lips are movin

Kanye West, Rihanna & Paul McCartney – Four Five Seconds

Phillip George – Wish you were mine

Karen Harding – Say Something

Ed Sheeran – Thinking out loud

Olly Murs & Demi Lovato – Up

Avicii – The Nights

@desixpress With rumours surrounding Anurag Kashyap’s ‘Bombay Velvet’ going round, it was previously stated that Raveena Tandon had decided to walk away from her short role due to the change of the script. Tandon has now spoken out about the incident. She’s staying. The actress came out on Twitter to clarify her remarks. “Ok so fed up of misinterpretations of what I said !!! 1) just doing a FRIENDLY APPEARANCE for

MADHU and @anuragkashyap72 in Bombay velvet,” She went onto add, “When asked all the time about it, all I said was” don’t know if I will be there also or no in the ﬁnal edit as ﬁlm is in the editing stage. Didnt think so many stories wld come out of 1 statement, lot of Twitter friends askd me, thought shld let d noise die down say this for once (sic).” The movie will also be star Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, Vivaan Shah and Karan Johar.

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PREMature

SHO

maturity comes early #brave BY ROHITH S. KATBAMNA & TERRY MARDI #truth

PREMature: An Experimental Drama Series The highly anticipated new series PREMature comes to screens and lifts the curtains on life’s struggles. Teenager Prem Mehta must overcome the death of his grandmother and sudden divorce of his parents to learn to grow up fast, however the strained relationship with his parents and constant obstacles make this a tough journey to make. Whether it is family, bullying, marriage or the trials of youth, director Rohith Katbamna brings a fresh and surreal window into the troubled lives of our characters. We sat down with Meera Ganatra who plays Prem’s emotionally damaged mother Neelam. Meera gives us the low down on her role in the series and her experience shooting this unique show.

What attracted you to this project?

The director Rohith got in touch with me through Casting Call Pro which is an actor’s website where actors can apply for jobs they feel suitable for. I looked at the script for the pilot and I saw his previous work where he did a great documentary for South Africa called Hooking in Joburg, which was quite controversial but very real. Based on that I thought this guy has got something and I was able to meet him and get the job. PREMature is very naturalistic, emotional and has dark humour; it is very different to other TV shows that are out

WATCH PREMature on Channels: SKY: 539, FREEVIEW: 109 VIRGIN MEDIA: 233 FREESAT: 651

Tell me about your character and her role in this plot.

I play Neelam who is the mother of the protagonist and the series begins quite dramatically with her mother passing away and she ﬁnds out her husband has cheated on her again. Their marriage breaks down after 21 years so she has to ﬁnd her feet again and cope with two major traumatic experiences. The relationship with her children and whole family is also affected by this, she has no control over the whole situation and she is very vulnerable and in a broken state. Throughout the series you will see how she copes with it, what she does and how she emerges at the end. There are things she does that may surprise you!

READ THE FULL INTERVIEW ONLINE: VISIT US AT: WWW.DESIXPRESS.CO.UK @MeeraGanatra

A CHAT WITH

MEERA G A N AT R A

What was your experience like bringing Neelam’s issues to life?

As a performer you always want a character that is challenging and you can get your feelings into, I have been working on this project for the past couple of years since I first joined the series and filmed the pilot. So when we filmed the sixth episode I had done all my research on the character and been there and felt it. It is hard to do but when you really believe in the character you can bring reality to it. I have not experienced any of the things she went through but I am married with kids so you empathise with people who go through those experiences.

As a mother yourself could you relate in any way to Neelam’s storyline?

When you have a child in your life it is the most amazing experience any woman can go through. The relationship you have with your children is so precious and pure, but in this story the relationship with my older children is not broken but diﬃcult and as a mother it is a very sad and frightening position where this child is growing up and moving away from you. You can feel very guilty and a breakdown of a marriage would also be diﬃcult.

Tell me about your character and his role in the plot.

Prem is the lone wolf of the series, it’s a time where he’s carving out the rest of his life but with certain restraints. The death of his grandmother and separation of his parents add to his already dull daily routine. The role for Prem is simple, he is there to show that no matter what is thrown at you, you continue and try and bring the best out of that situation even if it means helping others ﬁrst and thinking about yourself later. He’s just a boy realising its time to become a man and stand up.

In your own words, what is the overall theme of the series?

Were there any aspects of the show that you could personally relate to?

There was a lot of improvisation to make the dialogue sound real, was this easy to do as an actor?

Honestly, that there is a light in that very dark tunnel.

Many, at times it was like I was portraying myself. Prem’s character has allowed me to contribute my own life lessons into this project, I guess it’s that realistic. Having had periods of my life which were quite dark I can sympathise with Prem and have a great respect for him. Depression, anxiety and death have a massive effect on one but it’s how you channel these things, what you do with them that separates you from the people that give up.

To be honest it wasn’t hard at all, acting for me is a lot more than just becoming someone and learning their lines. It’s living and breathing them, actually taking the time out to think about why something should be said in a different way or why it should be changed, it’s all about being comfortable. I give props to Rohith for this as the script was amazing and he gave us ownership of the characters which allowed us to make certain dialogue choices.

What drew you to this project?

What do you want the audience to take away from this series?

The project will speak for itself when released, it’s so different, it’s real. The amount of heart that has gone into making PREMature is what blew me away. We’re all family, everyone who is part of this means a lot to me and I guess for something that was shot in a very tight eight weeks you would think we hardly got to talk to each other and build bonds, but we did. Everyone on the project wanted to be there, from love to tension everything was felt in the air.

I understand that PREMature will not be everyone’s cup of tea however, it can change lives, I know for me and some of the cast this has been the case. If just one person attaches himself or herself to a character or a storyline, I honestly think we have all succeeded.

GOODNESS GRACIOUS ME! Cast to Reunite for One-Off Episode After their successful reunion in 2014 the original cast from the award winning sketch show returns for another one-off special of the groundbreaking British Asian sketch show featuring some new characters and old favourites. Starring Sanjeev Bhaskar, Kulvinder

Ghir, Meera Syal, Nina Wadia with Dave Lamb, the episode will be filmed on March 7 and filmed at the BBC Elstree Studios. Sanjay Bhaskar confirmed the news on Twitter. “Scripts are currently being written and the show will be broadcast later this year.”

Celebrating 50 years of comedy on BBC2

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@Ishmeetnarula

I I had the good fortune of meeting Livingston Brown and started working on my new album with him. While we pondered over 300 sheets of paper of words written by me I chose one which I would love to do as a duet, to which he answered “let me run it by Maxi and see if he's interested”. The rest is history I guess. What do the lyrics in your new song mean and what inspired them? It is said that men are from Mars and women are from Venus and that is why we understand each other as we would someone from another planet. The song yo-yo is basically how you feel when you are in a relationship, like a yo-yo up-and-down! However it is not just women who feel insecure about a relationship, men can feel as insecure. What you have been up to since the release of Bollywood Queen? I had the good fortune of meeting Livingston Brown and started working on my new album with him. While we pondered over 300 sheets of paper of words written

by me I chose one which I would love to do as a duet, to which he answered “let me run it by Maxi and see if he's interested”. The rest is history I guess.

@Amit_Sumal

What do the lyrics in your new song mean and what inspired them?

Depression in my case is a clinical depression and it is not something that will go away without medication. I accept that this is a something I have to bear with. We all have ways of making a tough job easier, I do not think music will altogether takeaway my depression but I look at it as a crutch. I will always need music in my life as much as I need the air that I breathe.

Born and bred in Glasgow, Scotland, Amit was introduced to the world of music through his father, a genuine music lover. Realising his son had a good grasp of music, Amit was introduced to his first music teacher at the tender age of six, from whom he started to learn Western Classical Piano. Still too young to take his life seriously, Amit decided to keep his singing as a hobby but began to broaden his knowledge of Indian film songs. The more he listened, the more he became a fan of a wide range of great Indian singers, like Mohd Rafi Sahib, Udit Narayan and Jagjit Singh ji. After completing his further education, Amit started taking music more seriously and went to India on a number of occasions to gain a deeper understanding of Indian Classical music. As well as vocal training, Amit took advantage of the fact that he was in India and also learnt to play some raags with a rare Indian instrument called the Sarod, from Pandit Shekhar Borkar who is yet another well respected guru ji and Amit says he is forever indebted to him.

KIRAN DHANOA

Initially when I started writing lyrics I would go spontaneously by what I felt at the time. Like to ponder over past experiences and future expectations, another part of my experience over the last year is changing my voice to its natural singing voice rather than trying to be something I am not. How has your music helped you through your depression?

From the remarkable dexterity, precision and warmth of her voice, to her exuberant personality, Ishmeet Narula, has established herself as one of the most outstanding up-and-coming female vocalist of the Punjabi music industry. Ishmeet’s successful collaborations culminated with “Kaliyan Raatan” won her a best newcomer female voice nomination at the PTC Music Awards 2012. This is the work of a talented artist with a clear passion, exquisite taste, and lovely voice that lingers in your ear long after the music has ﬁnished. Consistently exploring and bringing different styles of music and performances to her audience, Ishmeet is a progressive star on the rise. She has all the ingredients of a Bonaﬁde superstar who has performed live in front of thousands and collaborated with the biggest names in Punjabi and Bollywood music industries. We are excited to see her excel and become the generation’s most sought-after Punjabi female artist.

AMIT SUMAL

East meets West Brit Pop/Club Singer Indiraa is a darling among many of the mainstream A-list DJ's and is fast becoming force to be reckoned with on the commercial music scene. The Indian-born Indiraa rose in fame with her catchy electro pop hits, “I Get Off” and “Shrink”, however the singer/songwriter pushed the boundaries by openly discussing her battle with depression and how her music has helped slowly tackle this. Now the star returns with an upcoming collaboration with famed Reggae artist Maxi Priest and their new single “Yo-yo”. How did you come about working with Maxi Priest?

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What advice would you give to someone suffering from depression? My advice to anyone suffering from depression is you may not eradicate it forever but one thing you can do is make it easier. It is “never too late” to do anything in your life that will make you happier, anything that you aspire to be you can be. I do not believe I could have got through without medication. If you need to see a psychiatrist you are not crazy you are clever enough to recognise you need help. Do you think women have caught up with men in the game of love and equality? I can honestly tell a single woman that if she is unhappy being single then all she has to do is go on a manhunt. Men and women are very devious in the game of love, the fact that we dominate the game of love in itself suggests that it entails strategy and ultimately a win or lose situation. I was once told that women give sex to get love and men give love to get sex, single women must bear this in mind.

@RealKiranDhanoa

Whilst studing at University for her Law degree, Kiran Dhanoa aspired to be something greater, something that she always dreamt of... a worldwide performer. But she felt that her dreams would be left as they were.... dreams. After posting videos of herself singing on Facebook and Youtube, Kiran Dhanoa began to capture the attention of many, even the great Music Maestro, Rishi Rich himself. Kiran Dhanoa was invited to audition for Rishi Rich & Veronica at the legendary 'Heights Studio' which has heard the vocal talents of Jay Sean, Maxi Priest, Jazzy B, Malkit Singh, H Dhami, Miss Pooja, Misteeq, Craig David and many many more. The audition was the beginning of Kiran Dhanoa's dreams becoming her reality.... and she hasn't looked back since.

Tina Desai Talks Movies, Dancing and Being Star struck Tina Desai beguiled audiences as Sunaina, Sonny’s beautiful girlfriend in The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. It was her first international success, but Desai is well known in her native India, where she is establishing herself as one of Bollywood’s most exciting new talents. Sonny and Sunaina’s wedding forms the backbone of THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL. What can you tell us about that? The first film is all about India and the sights and sounds and smells. And so the different thing in this one would be the Indian wedding, which can be quite a large affair and which can go on for up to ten days if we’re allowed. That’s what this is about and they capture it really well. Sonny and Sunaina’s relationship you

think has gotten really mature because they’re ready for marriage, but I think Sonny just attracts trouble. There are difficult times that we’re dealing with anyways. It’s the next step, of course. And personally, as well, I think Dev and I have known each other for a while now, so that also helps. Are you very similar to Sunaina? Oh no. I think Sunaina’s quite mature and understanding, and reasonable and sensible and all those things. And while I think I am those things too, I don’t like to show it. I like to show

A JOURNEY FROM HOLLYWOOD TO BOLLYWOOD

my irresponsible and immature self, so that everyone comes and fusses over me and I get attention. How is Sonny’s mum feeling about things? I think she should be on top of the world. Character-wise, she’s going through a change in her whole outlook. There’s this surprise that is sprung upon her and she doesn’t really know how to deal with it, because it’s a very uncommon situation for an Indian woman. It’s enviable, but uncommon. She doesn’t quite know what to make of it, and how to deal with it. Read the full interview online: www.desixpress.co.uk

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With Manish Gajjar Hindi Film Adviser for Vue Cinemas

BOLLYWOOD MOVIE OF THE MONTH

NH 10 Director: Navdeep Singh Cast: Anushka Sharma, Neil Bhoopalam

Working class Meera and Arjun live happily in each other’s company until one incident changes their lives forever. One fine night Meera is attacked by a gang of youths leaving her mentally disturbed. A compassionate Arjun decides to take her on a holiday to overcome her recent ordeal. But when they stop over at a service station they witness a girl being attacked. Arjun decides to intervene oblivious of the danger that lies ahead for both of them. This edge of the seat action thriller is directed by Navdeep Singh who previously gave us the highly acclaimed Manorama Six Feet Under. The film is also in collaboration with EROS International who has always supported content driven films in a film industry trying hard to adapt and cater for audiences ever changing tastes. NH 10 stars Anushka Sharma who is also the producer of the film involving a couple’s road trip that goes awry. She has now become the youngest actress-turnedproducer in the industry to date. Anushka is also in agreement with EROS in promoting fresh young talents with innovative ideas that excite audiences. On the technical front Armin Sauer of the The Bourne Supremacy fame has been employed to work on the action sequences in NH 10. Meanwhile Darshan Kumar who made his name in Mary Kom plays a ruthless killer whilst Neil Bhoopalam plays Anushka’s love interest. NH 10 deals with violence in the inner parts of Northern India involving a lot of bloodshed and gore. So the film may well be certified for an adult audience upon UK release.

Read the full article online: www.theasiantoday.com

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Rani Mukerji

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"I NEVER IMAGINED THAT MY FILM WILL RELEASE IN POLAND."

THE ROYAL CHARITY DINNER HELD BY THE BRITISH ASIAN TRUST

ollywood beauty Rani Mukerji was in London last month to attend a royal charity dinner held by the British Asian Trust. Also attended by The Prince of Wales and The Duchhess of Cornwall along with Nobel Peace Prize winner Kailash Satyarthi, the event also saw the get together of mainstream celebrities and some faded British Asian artists. As the guest of honour, Mukerji spoke to the guests about human trafficking, which was also a theme of her last release, Mardaani. In conversation with our Bollywood correspondent, Sunny Malik, the Hum Tum actress opened up about the issue of child trafficking, her movies and much more. Talking about speaking at the British Asian Trust event, Rani said, "I think it is very important to be speaking at a platform or at an event, where people come together for a cause. The theme was anti-trafficking. My recent film Mardaani brought this issue, child trafficking, into the limelight and it became a national topic in India. That speaks a lot for a film. Usually, films with a social cause do not perform well at the box office. Mardaani managed to make noise among the audiences, the critics and did well at the box office. It created awareness about a subject in India. I think, many people are still ignorant about it. They do not believe that this can happen to their own children. Every eight minutes, a girl disappears in India. There a millions of girls who are trafficked and sold daily." The much spoken about crime thriller Mardaani, directed by Pradeep Sarkar and produced by Aditya Chopra under Yash Raj Films, also premiered in Poland last month. Mukerji flew to Warsaw, Poland and felt delighted to be representing the film there. "I never imagined that my film will release in Poland. That came to me as a pleasant surprise. Usually, it’s the big films that are made with a hundred crore budget that get a wide international release. It was also good to see that the 75 percent of the audience that attended the premiere in Warsaw were Polish. That includes fans, press, local actors and producers and normal audiences. It was a huge honour for me to represent my entire team there who had worked on the film and also those who worked on the research for Mardaani," said the 36-year-old. Rani saw humongous success in the United Kingdom with her films over the years. Her film Kuch Kuch Hota Hai dominated the UK box office and was the first Indian film to enter the UK Top Ten charts. Kabhi Kushi Kabhie Gham managed to become the highest grossing Indian film ever in the UK in 2001 and held the position for nine years. Whereas Karan Johar's Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna

BY: SUNNY MALIK

ENTERTAINMENT CORRESPONDENT

@SUNNYMALIK

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was the second highest grossing film here for over four years. Like other films starring Rani, K3G and KANK still feature in the top ten highest grossing Bollywood movies in the UK. While her films like Ta Ra Rum Pum and Laaga Chunari Main Daag may not have set the box office in India on fire, the films worked very well at the UK box office due to her huge fan-base nationwide. Talking about her UK fans, she said, "I can’t put it in words as I can only feel this. As actors, we put a lot of effort into our work when we are performing for a film. Our main agenda is to make our fans happy. The fact that I have a fan base so far away from India is a nice feeling. It’s nice to know that NRI’s or people who watch Indian films in the UK like my work. It reassures me that whatever I am doing is right. It gives me the feeling that since they are liking my work, I can do better and achieve more." But despite these achievements and numerous awards that she has won over the years, Rani feels that this is just the beginning in her film career. "I have so many actors who inspire me. I take complete inspiration from someone like Meryl Streep. The kind of films that she is even churning out today, is inspiring. For an actor like me, there are still many interesting projects and films. Not only from India, as I would be more than glad to be a part of films from abroad. I would not dare to say that I am very happy and satisfied the way my career has shaped. There is a long way to go."

“

As actors, we put a lot of effort into our work when we are performing for a film. Our main agenda is to make our fans happy.

FULL TOUR DATES:

THE DERANGED MARRIAGE

The producers behind Happy Birthday Sunita, Britain’s Got Bhangra and Break The

Floorboards, Rifco and Watford Palace theatre are pleased to announce the smash-hit show The Deranged Marriage will return for its 10th anniversary with a new cast and updated script. The Deranged Marriage will visit Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry in June. Written and directed by Rifco’s Artistic Director Pravesh Kumar, the revamped comedy drama production follows nervous couple Sona and Rishi, and

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their families during their extravagant wedding preparations. Exploring the relationship between tradition and conformity, the story asks whether British Asian adults can still observe the ancient tradition of arranged marriages within their modern lives. The production previously toured to sold out houses between 2004 to 2006 and is one of Rifco’s most successful tours. It provides a fresh look at Asian wedding tradition with a uniquely British twist and welcomes the audience as wedding guests to take their part in the fun, tears, drama and chaos of the big day.

Rifco last brought comedy drama Happy Birthday Sunita to the Midlands. Starring Shabana Azmi the show sold out across the UK. For over 15 years the company has been bringing audiences relevant and engaging stories which reflect the contemporary British Asian experience. Productions include Britain’s Got Bhangra (People’s Favourite Musical – OFFIES 2011), Break The Floorboards (Best Live Event – Asian Media Awards 2013), There’s Something About Simmy, Where’s My Desi Soulmate? and MummyJi Presents.

Watford Palace Theatre 25th & 27th April, 28th April to 2nd May West Yorkshire Playhouse 6th to 10th May Theatre Royal Windsor 11th to 16th May The Woodville, Gravesend 21st & 22nd May Warwick Arts Centre 2nd to 6th June Oxford Playhouse 10th to 13th June

www.desixpress.co.uk

MARCH 2015 DESI XPRESS 41

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

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UPCOMING

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DRAMA

FILMS

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THRILLER

Two men are playing the game of chess. One of them is a detective who has lost everything in life. Other believes that his best game would be the one he plays beyond his death. The detective's life depends on the outcome of the game. Having nothing to loose, the detective plays the best game and everything in his life changes.

NH10

Meera (Anushka Sharma) and Arjun (Neil Bhoopalam) are professionals living in Gurgaon. When Meera walks out of a party late one night, she gets attacked by a group of unknown men. Although she escapes through the skin of her teeth, it leaves her traumatised. Arjun, partly blaming himself Releasing for not being there 6th March that night, tries 2015 to make up for it by treating her to a luxurious desert holiday. As they stop on a Highway dhaba for dinner, they witness a young girl being picked up by a bunch of hoodlums. Arjun chooses to step in, unmindful of the danger ahead.

Releasing 6th March 2015

HUNTERRR

Starring: Gulshan Devaiah, Radhika Apte, Saie Tamhankar and Veera Saxena Releasing 20th Feb 2015

BANK CHOR

Mandar Ponkshe is an ordinary guy. Mandar does not attract attention because he wants to be seen as ordinary. But behind that facade is a story - of an interesting past life that has been led. His singleminded pursuit of girls, tall Starring: Riteish Deshmukh, Vivek Oberoi, Rhea and short, stout or with a pout Chakraborty, Bhuvan Arora and Vikram Thapa is funny unconventionally Releasing without meaning to be witty. 6th March His friends have lost all 2015 hope of him settling down, as they know that he doesn't plan to. And then suddenly he meets someone whom he starts liking... and falls in love with. What will happen now? Will she know about his past? Will he able to hide his A comic-caper, that tells the story of 3 morons trying to rob a Hunterrrr reputation? The story bank who pick the worst day possible when everything that can of a guy, who doesn't want to go wrong, goes wrong and how they’re inadvertently caught in the grow up! crossfire of cops, industrialists and corrupt netas.

THE LEGEND OF MICHAEL MISHRA Starring: - Arshad Warsi, Boman Irani and his son Kayoze

The Legend of Michael Mishra is a comedy drama film directed and written by Manish Jha. The movie, which went on floors in January this year, also stars Arshad Warsi and Aditi Rao Hydari.

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HORROR

ROMANCE

HOLLYWOOD MOVIES

Starring: Amitabh Bacchan, Farhan Akhtar and Aditi Rao Hydari

Starring: Anushka Sharma, Neil Bhoopalam, Ravi Jhankal, Darshan Kumaar and Deepti Naval

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COMEDY

BOLLYWOOD MOVIES

WAZIR

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Releasing 20th March 2015

THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT Starring: Kate Winslet, Shailene Woodley, Jai Courtenay, Theo James, Ashley Judd, Zoe Kravitz

As she searches for allies and answers in the wake of the uprising, Tris and Four are on the run. Being hunted by Jeanine Matthews, the leader of the Erudite faction, Tris and Four will race against time as they try to figure out what Abnegation sacrificed their lives to protect, and why the Erudite leaders will do anything to stop them. Haunted by her past choices but desperate to protect the ones she loves, Tris faces Releasing one impossible challenge after another as she unlocks 20th March the truth about the past and ultimately the future of her 2015 world.

CHAPPIE Starring: Sharlto Copley, Dev Releasing 6th March Patel, Ninja and Yo-Landi Vi$$er, 2015 Jose Pablo Cantillo, with Sigourney Weaver and Hugh Jackman In the near future, crime is patrolled by an oppressive mechanized police force. But now, the people are fighting back. When one police droid, Chappie, is stolen and given new programming, he becomes the first robot with the ability to think and feel for himself. As powerful, destructive forces start to see Chappie as a danger to mankind and order, they will stop at nothing to maintain the status quo and ensure that Chappie is the last of his kind.

CINDERELLA Starring: Cate Blanchett, Lily James, Richard Madden, Stellan Skarsgard, Holliday Grainger, Sophie McShera, Derek ing Jacobi and Helena Releas h rc a 13th M Bonham-Carter 15 20

The story of “Cinderella” follows the fortunes of young Ella whose merchant father remarries following the death of her mother. Eager to support her loving father, Ella welcomes her new stepmother and her daughters Anastasia and Drisella into the family home. But, when Ella’s father unexpectedly passes away, she finds herself at the mercy of a jealous and cruel new family. Finally relegated to nothing more than a servant girl covered in ashes, and spitefully renamed Cinderella, Ella could easily begin to lose hope. Yet, despite the cruelty inflicted upon her, Ella is determined to honour her mother’s dying words and to “have courage and be kind.”

HOME

Starring: : Rihanna, Jim Parsons, Jennifer Lopez and Steve Martin

Releasing 27th Feb 2015

When a loveable misfit from another planet, lands on Earth and finds himself on the run from his own people, he forms an unlikely friendship with an adventurous girl named Tip who is on a quest of her own. Through a series of comic adventures with Tip, Oh comes to understand that being different and making mistakes is all part of being human. And while he changes her planet and she changes his world, they discover the true meaning of the word HOME.

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WHAT'S ON

DATE: 14th March 2015 VENUE: The MAC

Birmingham

SALAM Salaam literally meaning ‘peace’ is Sonia Sabri Company’s latest work that beautifully crafts an intricate dialogue of Kathak dance and Live music inspired by the works of Suﬁ saint and musicologist Hazarat Amir Khusrao. Sonia and Sarvar return to their home venue mac to perform their long awaited performance in Birmingham. Salaam opens with a rare treat of solo tabla music by the world- renowned maestro Sarvar Sabri followed by Sonia’s distinctive personal style of Kathak dance in the second half. Kathak is an exhilarating dance experience with an astounding display of precise footwork, eloquent gesture, rapid turns and heart-pounding rhythms. Internationally acclaimed for her unique presentations, Sonia revisits the impact of Indian dance with evocative live music woven with Persian rhyme and spirit.

DATE: 26th-8th March 2015 VENUE: The Belgrade

Theatre Coventry

Based on the illustrated novel by Oscar winner Shaun Tan, one man’s tale echoes the many ‘arrivals’ happening around us all the time. This epic migration story unfolds through an extraordinary weaving together of theatre, circus and music. Dele plays a last game of football with his friends, says goodbye to his son and sets off on a voyage to a smog-ﬁlled metropolis across the sea. Carrying only a small suitcase he embarks on a journey into the unknown. Others he meets along the way share his dream of building a home in a new city and being joined by their families.

RAS TAFARI: THE MAJESTY AND THE MOVEMENT

BIRMINGHAM

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

DATE: 23rd Feb 23rd March 2015 VENUE: The Drum

The Majesty and the Movement exhibition details the history of the 'Majesty' - Haile Selassie I, famous Emperor of Ethiopia and the Black liberation 'Movement' that takes the Emperor's crown prince title, Ras Tafari. This exhibition tells the story of Haile Selassie I's visits to the UK (including his 4 year exile at Fairﬁeld House, Bath 1936-1940) and the emergence of the Rastafari movement in the UK from the 1960s until recently.

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BLOOD ( A 21ST URBAN LOVE STORY)

DATE: 27th March 11th April 2015 VENUE: The Belgrade Theatre Coventry

Love ain’t something you just say, just this word, it’s something you do. Caneze meets Sully in the college canteen. The heat rises over triple chilli sauce in Nando’s. She makes her move in the sweet smoke of a shisha bar. A touchpaper is lit… but neither of them bargained on the lengths to which her brother would go to keep them apart. Blood is a heartfelt new play by the writer of Tamasha’s Sweet Cider. Set among a Midlands Pakistani community, Blood is sparkly, funny and heart-

wrenchingly honest. A timely and contemporary story, this play cuts through political agendas and goes straight to the heart. It lets us in to a world governed by links to family and clan, as much as ﬁercely individual wants and desires. “After the 2011 riots, I felt frustrated over the myopic portrayal of working class young people. It was important to me to write a play which captured the complexity of their lives and the brave, sassy way they negotiate their identity in a wider context.” Emteaz Hussain

DESI CENTRAL: A NIGHT OF EXPLOSIVE 29th March 2015 COMEDY DATE: VENUE: The Glee Club Birmingham

Celebrate International Womens Day 2015 this year with Mooville Theatre CIC & Click to Shoot Ltd Our programme will be presented through a panel discussion & a collection of monologues, sharing the experiences of women from the Midlands within selected themes: Domestic Violence, Relationships, Discrimination, Inequality, Poverty & Success. We are offering you a night of camaraderie, sharing, support and solidarity.

DATE: 8th March 2015 VENUE: The Mac Birmingham

Desi Central return with another fantastic comedy nigh line-up which includes Aatif Nawaz, Jay Sodager, Axel Blake

and Inder Manocha. Hosted by Mickey Sharma the event is set to be a an unforgettable night.

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MARCH 2015

FASHION & BEAUTY

FASHIO

THE ASIAN TODAY

LONDON FASHION WEEK TRENDS FOR ASIANS W

hen l was young l used to love flicking through the fashion magazines looking at images of models on the runway wearing gorgeous dresses. Of course they were extortionately priced designer clothing most of us can only dream owning. As l grew up l realised you don’t have to spend hundreds to look and feel great. You just need to know the designer trends and rock them with your very own identity. This month’s fashion feature we take a look at London Fashion Week because it’s the place to find emerging everyday trends for all you British Asians. I pick three favourite British Asian fusion looks you need to be rocking; Antonio Berardi paired a contrasting pattern dupatta style waistcoat with a v-neck coat jacket and tailored trousers. The dupatta had piping in the centerfolds to create a tailored affect. It’s a simple way of jazzing up a

Author: Sara Khan Twitter: @sarakblog Facebook: /sarakblog

coat or jacket you’re bored of wearing. Temperley is a designer brand loved by many and one to watch for most Asians. The latest collection London Fashion Week collection features a longline kimono tailored jacket with geo patterns topped with a dupatta with tassels. We normally see these types of trends on South Asian runways and Middle-Eastern brands but Temperley brings the eastern flavour to Britain. And l haven’t forgotten all you ladies who want to feel comfortable yet elegant for a more evening look we would suggest taking trend tips from the next designer. J JS Lee's swanky silvery longline maxi jacket up to the ankles was a big hit. As J JS Lee does just add a collar blouse and matching trousers with a subtle chain waist belt. You now have some wonderful alternatives for your eastern and western wardrobe ladies! I hope we have inspired you.

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• MODEL:Sorcha Newby

Modelling the Dream

Next Month – It’s Bridal fever at Asian Bride Live. And empowering women at Saverah Woman Expo 2015 with all the modest fashion show.

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SORCHA AIMS FOR UK TITLE

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A local model is aiming get her big break after being chosen as a finalist in the Top Model UK 2015 competition. Sorcha Newby, 19, of Syston, in Leicestershire, realised she had talent in the world of modelling when she won the very first beauty pageant she entered. Sorcha said, “My dream is to be on the catwalk at London Fashion Week and this competition is a brilliant opportunity - there will be lots of people from the industry there who will see me in the final, which will be like a live fashion show. “Designers are coming from all over.” Sorcha, who works in the finance department at Leicestershire County Council, had been invited to the auditions for the competition in London. She said: “After I was invited I did some research and realised what a big competition it was. When I went to London there were lots of us - about 60 on the day I went - and we had to model lots of clothes on the catwalk with photographers taking pictures of us. Then I was one of the 25 who made it through to the final.” “She then went on to participate in the final of the Miss England beauty contest later in year in Leicester. “Since then I’ve been doing quite a lot of Asian bridal work, which is brilliant - getting to dress up in wedding dresses and pretend to get married all the time! It’s a dream job but what I’d really love to do is high-end fashion so in March I’m going to be in it to win it.”

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MARCH 2015

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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.

GET THE LOOK FOR SPRING Essential Requirements for the Arrival of the new Season

LIPS Get some colour on your lips, so start with bright vibrant colours. The idea is simple: the more colour = the more luscious. The claret lip is a modern twist on the classic red look that oozes sophistication and glamour, adding a touch of elegance to any outfit. Our recommendation for vibrant lips is No7 Moisture Drench Lipstick. Not only does it come in different shades, the moisturising formulation keeps your lips smooth and soft.

Spring is coming, so why don’t you get ready for the arrival of all things colourful by following these simple beauty tips. Many designers are committed to neutrality, so when the sun is shining, it is only right to look on the bright side.

EYES Bring out the colour of your eyes with natural colour. For the perfect spring look our recommendation is No 7 Stay Perfect Shade and Define. It is soft, creamy and long-wearing. It glides onto create a broad sweep of colour or you can define your eyes with a precise line using the shaped tip point. Use the side of the pencil tip to create a wider line or the top of the tip to create a thinner line.

Crafting the Perfect Haircut

SKIN Keep your skin moisturised. As the days get longer and the temperature begins to climb, spring brings in dry, scaly, rough skin, which can leave you looking wrinkled and older. Our recommendation for a long lasting solution is Neutrogena Visibly Clear Oil-Free Moisturiser. It helps keep skin looking clear and healthy. The creamy lotion with extracts of Aloe and Camomile soothe and moisturise skin to protect against dryness.

RHEASON’S TO KEEP SHOPPING My beautiful sister and I are starting a high street fashion brand called #rheason.

Sonam and sister Rhea to Launch Fashion Line

If you're thinking of giving your hair a touch up, craft a plan with your stylist to make it a steady changeover. It's important to have a master plan, as you may need more maintenance and touchups every couple of weeks to start the process. Once every three weeks plan an 'upkeep' regimen with your stylist or barber so you always look well

•

SHOPPING: Bollywood actress Sonam Kapoor with her sister Rhea Kapoor

Bollywood actress and style diva, Sonam Kapoor, will be launching a fashion line with her younger sister, Rhea. Sonam, who is regularly styled by Rhea, announced on Twitter the new business venture, “My beautiful sister and I are starting a high street fashion brand called #rheson.” Their line of clothing will be branded as Rheason and will be launched in India in September this year. All excited about designing, Sonam reveals, “I was very interested in doing fashion. While I am better than Rhea at Indian clothes, Rhea's sense of western aesthetics is way better than mine.” Asked what type of style the clothing line would take, Rhea said, “Indo-Western and

groomed. But remember: the shorter your hair, the more upkeep it needs. "When your hair's totally dry, hold it all in place use a matt product such as a hair cream or mud. The advantage of these is that they are malleable, but aren't shiny. You could even use a comb if you want it to look even smarter. The product will then set as it cools.” By: Hifzha Shaheen Senior Journalist hifzha@theasiantoday.com separates that means individual pieces of skirts, T-shirts, tops and sweatshirts.. Whilst Sonam added, “We wanted to make it fashionable for real girls, but also make it affordable. But besides being aspirational, it should also be something that every girl should want to wear and feel comfortable and beautiful wearing.” “We want to make young girls realise that you don't have to spend money to look stylish. It's like accessible, affordable glamour. he sizes will range from extra small to extra large (UK size 6 to 16). The clothes will be available in a standalone section in Shoppers Stop. The clothes should make you feel a warm embrace and not insecure.” Sonam also revealed that Rheson will ship worldwide.

Is Breakfast Really The Most Important Meal Of The Day? Breakfast provides your body with energy to start the day, and breakfast is linked to many health benefits, including weight control and improved performance. So it’s true – breakfast really is the most important meal of the day. Having the right breakfast foods can help you concentrate, give you strength and even help you maintain a healthy weight. Breakfast Studies show that eating a healthy breakfast can help give you: • A more nutritionally complete diet, higher in nutrients, vitamins and minerals. • I m p r o v e d concentration and performance – In children and in adults. • Gives you an improvement in strength and endurance to engage in physical activity. • Can help to lower cholesterol levels. • Help maintain a healthy weight. Eating breakfast is important for everyone. Recent studies have shown breakfast is especially important for children and adolescents. According to the American Dietetic Association, children who

eat breakfast perform better in the classroom and on the playground, with better concentration, problem-solving skills, and eye-hand coordination. Studies also show that breakfast eaters tend to weigh less than those who skip breakfast. This could be to the fact that eating a healthy breakfast can help reduce hunger throughout the day, reducing snacking and controlling cravings – helping people to make better food choices at other meals. However, it’s important to remember to opt for a healthy breakfast containing protein and/ or whole grains – not foods loaded with fat, sugar and calories. Make lean protein part of your Breakfast. Protein helps to control your hunger and keeps you fuller for longer. A traditional breakfast of eggs may be one of the best ways to get your morning protein. While eggs are not always associated with weight loss, they contain some of the highest-quality protein. Breakfast really is the most important meal of the day. Start your day of right and eat something nutritional and healthy – to kick start your body and mind in the right way.

Here is one of my quick simple breakfast ideas

Ingredients: • • • • • •

2 organic eggs, beaten A handful of frozen or fresh peas A handful of (7 or so) chunky and juicy tiger prawns Himalayan rock salt, ground black pepper Handful of chopped coriander Coconut oil

Method: 1. 2.

Heat a frying pan with coconut oil. Add the beaten eggs and let them cook as you scramble them. Add the peas and

4. 5.

prawns, salt and pepper to taste. Mix it all well until eggs are cooked Serve hot sprinkled with coriander

YOU CAN TWEET DAL YOUR QUESTIONS TWITTER: @DALDHALIWALPT FIND HER ON FACEBOOK: /DAL DHALIWAL WWW.BODYPERFECTPT.COM

MARCH 2015

THE ASIAN TODAY TOP 3 PLACES FOR MOTHERS DAY

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 It’s March and that means just one thing. Spring is here and it will soon be Mothering Sunday! It’s an early one this year, Sunday 15th March and there is no better excuse to enjoy a lovely dining experience than Mother’s Day. So here’s our Food Blogger Anita Champaneri’s pick of the best …. Exquisite Thai restaurant

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Sabai Sabai in Harborne and Moseley have conjured up something special menu for the family. If you are looking for something classy, you will love this venue. The three course menu is £22.95 and you get delightful dishes such as the classic Green Curry, lamb shank in Massaman sauce and Thai roast duck! All mums get a complimentary Oriental Bellini too.

www.sabaisabai-restaurant.co.uk Fabulous boutique hotel, Hotel du Vin, is offering four courses in their cosy bistro for only £34.95. They are also offering a glass of bubbly and a little gift, to really make your Mum feels special. If your whole family want to come along, you can even request a more intimate, private dining room (min. 6 people). So book soon, for a special Mother’s Day treat.

Food & Travel

ONE LAW

• ALLERGIES: Indian Chef Cyrus Todiwala

FOR FOURTEEN ALLERGIES For more information on the EU FIC regulations please visit www.food.gov.uk/science/allergy-intolerance Renowned Indian chef, Cyrus Todiwala, has urged Asian takeaway businesses and other ethnic eateries to follow the new EU legislation which became law last December. The EU Food Information for Consumers Regulations (EU FIC) requires food businesses to provide information on 14 specific allergens, when used as ingredients, in the food they sell. This came into effect in

December 2014. New research carried out jointly by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Allergy UK has shown that 70% of those with food allergies avoid buying takeaways due to fears about allergens. Mr Todiwala, owner of four London restaurants, is urging restaurant and takeaway owners to embrace the guidelines to benefit their businesses and

INDIAN CHEF URGES TAKEAWAYS TO PROTECT ALLERGIC CUSTOMERS keep their customers safe. Mr Todiwala said, “Over the last 20 years we have seen a rapid growth in the number of people suffering from allergies and intolerances. As restaurant owners we have a responsibility to keep our customers safe and make them feel welcome in our restaurants.” “For example, we were approached by the family of a young boy who could never eat out due to his food

NUTS ABOUT CURRY! Various Foods Including Curry Cautioned Following Nuts Controversy

allergies. They sent us a list of ingredients he had to avoid and we worked with them to create a special meal that catered for his needs.” Around 2 million people in the UK have food allergies including up to 2% of adults and 8% of children. These range from common ingredients such as nuts and milk, to less widely recognised allergens such as mustard and lupin (found in pasta and flour).

ALL MEN MUST DINE! Special Game of Thrones Themed Dinner at pop up Restaurant

www.hotelduvin.com If your mum is more of a glamour puss, she’ll definitely enjoy the uber cool Fumo, in the city centre. They offer a chic Italian dining experience in sophisticated yet relaxed surroundings. With their varied menu from lobster, pizza or pasta, Prosecco, Champagne or an expertly mixed cocktail, it’s an ideal destination for celebratory dining.

www.sancarlofumo.co.uk If you fancy venturing out of the city then The Boot Inn is a tremendously fab, posh country pub and restaurant in the beautiful Warwickshire countryside. Based in Lapworth, it combines unusual, high class,

good pub food with the finest wines and beers, all against the background of a perfect country pub atmosphere. With a great British Food menu and wine list it is one of the best gastro pub restaurants in Warwickshire. www.lovelypubs.co.uk/ venues/the-boot-in-lapworth

Get more food news on twitter @deliciouspr & on the web : www.msdeliciouspr.blogspot.com

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) have begun a wide investigation after Almonds were found in Fajita Kits from Morrisons' and Aldi, and in Bart's Ground Cumin. The three items were not advertised as containing nuts. People with nut allergies were put on alert and told not to buy curry or other spicy products which also contain nuts. Creamy curries such as Tikka Masala, Murgh Korma and Pasanda, often contain cashew nuts and ground almonds. Peshawari Naan and deserts such as Gajar Ka Halwar and Payasam also commonly contain nuts. Peanuts are one of the most common causes of fatal allergic reactions to food. The FSA are now looking at how the food was contaminated and testing other products containing cumin for nut proteins.

Fans of the hit HBO series Game of Thrones were able to enjoy a taste of Westeros at a special pop-up restaurant that opened for two days. Titled the ‘All Men Must Dine’ banquets, guests could gorge on 'bone marrow creme brulee' whilst actors dressed up as Game of Thrones characters to provide entertainment and

music. London's Andaz hotel provided the venue and Wandering Chef and Grosvenor Mixologists created the twisted menu. A featured dish included ‘The Lies of Tyrion Lannister and his Proclaimed Innocence — Poached Veal Tongue with Beetroot, Horseradish and Oldtown Mustard.’

NUTELLA BILLIONAIRE • PASSES AWAY Michele

NUTELLA:

The world’s richest confectionery maker Michele Ferrero who was behind the famous Nutella and Hazelnut spread, died aged 89. Italian president Sergio Mattarella praised Ferrero as a leading figure of Italian industry claiming he was “always ahead of his time thanks to innovative products and his tenacious

Ferrero

and reserved work”. Ferrero’s family empire also brought the world Kinder Surprise, Tic-Tacs and Ferrero Rocher. Forbes ranked Ferrero and his family 30th on its list of the world’s richest billionaires, worth $23.4bn (£15.2bn).

FOOD & TRAVEL

MARCH 2015

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Husna Anjum

"We've gone from no inflight entertainment, to one drop-down screen, then screens in the seats, and now personal screens,”

husna@theasiantoday.com

VIRTUAL JOURNEY

Australian Carrier to Introduce Virtual Reality Headsets

“Insensitive” Video Online Footage Shows Air India Staff Refuse to let Passengers Board

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“Once you are late, you are late. You lose the flight. Nothing is free,”

video has circulated on social media showing Air India staff refusing to let distressed passengers on board. The video, which has had 29,000 shares so far, shows staff barely reacting as passengers pleaded and begged after they were not allowed to board a flight, allegedly for being late.

“Once you are late, you are late. You lose the flight. Nothing is free,” an official of the company is heard telling passengers who allegedly arrived 55 minutes before their flight. Air India's website states check-ins stop 60 minutes before an international flight. The angry passengers

claim they were given the wrong information from the website’s message. One woman in the video even cried to the staff saying her mother was severely unwell, repeatedly saying “Please help me”. One of the passengers secretly filmed the incident and put it on Facebook, prompting a huge backlash.

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u s t r a l i a n airline, Qantas, will present passengers with Samsung’s Virtual Reality Headsets, Gear VR. Premium passengers will be able to use the instrument on some long distance flights. A three month trial will occur when Qantas will make the VR available to first-class passengers on some of the airline's A380 flights between Australia and Los Angeles. Eventually, Qantas says the VR technology, “will transport customers to an immersive virtual world… and showcase the sights and delights of network destinations, new Qantas products and the latest inflight blockbuster movies.” The company will first offer samples of short features called “vignettes” filmed in Australia and produced by Palo Altobased technology company Jaunt. “Travel and VR make a natural pair,” said Jaunt CEO Jens Christensen. So adding virtual reality options to the in-flight experience seems like a logical next step. “We've gone from no inflight entertainment, to one drop-down screen, then screens in the seats, and now personal screens,” said Christensen. “VR is the next step on the evolutionary scale,” he added. “Instead of a limited-size screen, a passenger is transported to a new location.” However widespread use by other airlines seems unlikely for the time being due to the high costs of the head sets and their handling. Other issues include the risked side effects which can include vertigo, nausea and in extreme cases seizures. Frank Catalano, a tech industry consultant, claimed that using a device that stimulates motion whilst already in a moving environment can lead to air sickness. However the stationary filming techniques used in

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BAGGAGE HANDLERS PICKET Baggage handlers have protested outside the British Airways terminal at John F. Kennedy Airport against what they deem unfair labour practices. Amity Paye, spokeswoman for the Service Employees International Union, says the workers set up a picket line at 6:00am on the day. She claims the one day-protest began with about 30 workers employed by Aviation Safeguards. Paye stated the baggage handlers are fighting for the right to higher wages and benefits. CEO of the company, Craig Coy, says only a few workers were involved and that there were no baggage or flight disruptions.

NO TO PIA

The Union home ministry have firmly said no to Pakistan International A i r l i n e s (PIA) buying property in India as their neighbouring country had stopped operations of Air India. Sources state that the Intelligence Bureau in a report told the finance ministry that Pakistan had forced Air India to stop its services to Lahore and Karachi through its “nefarious” design, leading to a complete monopoly of services by PIA in these fields. It was claimed that unless Air India services are restored, PIA should not be allowed to buy property in India.

the vignettes are said to eliminate nausea. The question was raised as to whether virtual reality would eliminate the need to travel, however a regular flyer argued the opposite claiming, “all virtual reality can do is stimulate the appetite for the real thing.”

• We aim to bring you great flight prices, whatever your destination. • We use a variety of airlines to find you the best deal. • We can provide tailor made packages and visa facilities. • We also specialise in Hajj & Umrah Tour packages. Hotel Bookings & Umrah Visa Services also available LOW COST FARES TO: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Kenya, Ethiopia, Lagos, Dar-Es-Salaam, Dubai and many more destinations.

Easyway Travel: 151 Ladypool Road, Sparkbrook, Birmingham, B12 8LH Tel: 0121 440 2121 Mobile: 07931 794 645 E-mail: easywayjawad@yahoo.co.uk Web: www.easywaytravel.biz

MARCH 2015

THE ASIAN TODAY DAY IN THE LIFE OF

LIFESTYLE

DJ NEEV SPENCER With a daily audience of 1.5 million listeners, Neev Spencer has become one of the most popular radio hosts in the UK. With a daily show on Kiss FM, regular DJ gigs and voiceover work Neev certainly has a busy lifestyle. However she still spares time to be a passionate ambassador for some of the many charities she supports. Neev talks music, her amazing encounter with Rihanna and why Pilates is the go to exercise for any fitness freak!

What’s an average day in your life like? 06:30-07:30

I wake up the “lovely” hour of 6:30am, I get myself ready and pick out something good to wear because you never know what celebrities are coming into the station that day. I am a health and fitness freak so I always have a healthy breakfast before I leave.

07:30-08:15

Head to work via the tube station.

08:15-09:00

I arrive at the KISS station and have a meeting with our controller, then I prepare for the show. I will look through the papers, music and competitions which I note down so I know exactly what is going on in the programme.

09:00-11:00

The show starts and we have a two hour section which is mainly music driven with celebrity stories, topical conversations or light hearted discussions.

11:00-12:00

We then come to the KISSTORY hour which is the biggest part of the show, it is where everyone can feel nostalgic and hear their classic tracks.

12:00-13:00

Then I finish off my KISSTORY show then spend the next half an hour doing prep for the next day,

13:00-16:00

I move to the KISSTORY station, I have a daily show there where it is the same thing, old school tunes.

16:00-17:00

I head out and I will try to get to a Piltaes class which is my preferred choice of fitness and training, it gives great overall tone and strength to my body.

17:00-18:00

I then manage my social media, I am heavily into my Instagram, Facebook and Twitter where I share things and spark conversations with people.

19:00-21:00

I will be coming home and thinking of something healthy to prepare for dinner, I eat very low carbohydrate and high protein diets with low sugar.

21:00-22:00

Normally on Monday or Tuesday or Friday and Saturday I will be 100% working as a DJ so I will do my makeup, hair and outfit and be out the door driving anywhere where KISS transmits.

22:00-00:00

Travel to my gig.

00:00-04:00

I will be working at my gig and then return home to get to bed. The only constant thing in my life is my radio show, everything else changes around it and every week is different.

LIFESTYLE

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You have been heavily involved in charity, is there one that is close to your heart? Two things spring to mind: first is the British Asian Trust started by Prince Charles which I was made an ambassador for. This was a huge honour for me as the money they raise is for people in India with life threatening diseases. I feel proud to be part of this charity as I can give back to India where the poverty is extreme, you don’t know where you can begin to help people. The second is Mencap, which I am also an ambassador for, who help raise money for people with mental and learning disabilities. As my younger brother has learning difficulties and special needs I feel emotionally close to this charity and proud that I can attach my name to them. They are fantastic and have helped my brother enormously over the years. Is there any particular celebrity interview that stood out for you? It has to be Rihanna, I don’t know why but I thought she would be quite cold and aloof, however she blew me away as she was so loving and wonderful. She just wanted to talk to me and hang out and I even had to make her answer my questions because she just wanted to play around, she is a very playful person! I even had Mendhi on my hands as I had just come back from India and she was crazy about it, I then said I would take her to have it done and she ended up having her tattoo of the mendhi on her hands which I like to think I influenced as it is exactly the same as mine! What can we do to encourage more Asian people to get involved in the media industry? When I started out it was a real battle as my father was very against my career but my mother was for it, however I was able to forge a successful career out of radio. What I love is that out of our 1.7 million listeners so many of them don’t know I am Asian which I am proud of because I am British Asian and Sikh and very proud of my heritage and homeland. What I would suggest to a lot of people is that if you have a talent you love, your first battle is if you can get your parents support. You have to be dedicated and not chase it for the fame, because media is not about the fame, it is about hard work, commitment, dedication and long hours. It is not as glamorous as people may think so if you can show them that you are willing to put the time and work in to get somewhere then you should be successful in anything you do.

Quick Fire Questions:

FACTS ABOUT NEEV •

•

Neev is ofﬁcially the most listened to female DJ in the UK! Neev was the ﬁrst female Asian presenter to break daytime commercial radio. Neev’s favourite exercise, Pilates, was introduced in the early 1900s and combines elements of yoga, martial arts and Western forms of exercise.

9-12 MON-FRI ON KISSFMUK

“

1PM-5PM MON-FRI ON FREEVIEW 714

Follow Neev on Twitter: @neevofficial

What I love is that out of our 1.7 million listeners so many of them don’t know I am Asian which I am proud of because I am British Asian and Sikh and very proud of my heritage and homeland.

One drink that gets you through the day? Green Tea One person that gets you through the day? Mum One song that gets you through the day? Calvin Harris, Fatman Scoop: Be Faithful and anything from DJ Fresh One food that gets you through the day? Almonds Favourite time of the day? Kissstory Hour at 11:00! Gadget that gets you through the day: iphone emergency charger

“

The Spring Within

By: Mita Mistry

“When spring came, even the false spring, there were no problems except where to be happiest. The only thing that could spoil a day was people and if you could keep from making engagements, each day had no limits." Ernest Hemingway, A Moveable Feast

According to Chinese Medicine, our sense of balance is intimately connected to living in harmony with the energy of the seasons. After the stillness of Winter, the surging expansive energy of Spring forces it’s way forward for new growth. Similarly, Spring which relates to the Wood Element within us inspires us to move forward on our path with hope and vision. If we followed mother nature’s wisdom and took time to rest during Winter, by Spring we should have replenished our energy reserves and be ready to take on this new burst of energy with clear vision and purpose. Spring is the time to plant seeds or make plans for the future and decisions that give direction for the coming year. It is the time to grow from insights about ourselves and from observing others. The energy of spring can challenge us to face truths that we may feel uncomfortable with because as we grow there may be aspects of ourselves that we were not aware of or even like. If our Wood element is balanced and healthy we can move smoothly through such challenges and experience growth and rebirth. But picture this, someone who has an imbalanced Wood element who cannot adapt or change or make decisions about their life. This person will naturally feel blocked, stuck and unable to grow. Imagine the anger and frustration that change is happening all around them but they are unable to experience it for themselves.

To read the full article please log onto our website: www.theasiantoday.com

TECHNOLOGY

MARCH 2015

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THE ASIAN TODAY MOTHER'S DAY GADGETS It’s that time of year where you need to start pampering, celebrating and spoiling your mother. Now being unique always leads to a very successful day. If you’re not the best of creative or imaginative person, then let The Asian Today help you.

HEADONIZM HEAD MASSAGER All you need to do is slowly push the massager down over your head and then raise it again. Each time you do this the metal flexible fingers massage your scalp, sending a sensual feeling across your head, down your spine and throughout your body.

SELFIESHUTTER The SelfieShutter is the perfect accessory to use when taking selfies and group shots. Not only can you get more into your shot but it also reduces the camera wobble you get from pressing the shutter button. Simply place your phone in the desired position, arrange your shot, pose and click!

TECHNOLOGY

BRUM'S

UBER

SAFE CAR HIRE 20,000 people have launched the app in the last 90 days alone Order a lift with the touch of a smartphone button, also provides details of customers' waiting times as well as estimated journey costs

IWORK AVAILABLE TO ALL Beta Version Accessible to non-Mac Users

MIFA BLUETOOTH SPEAKER Play your music through Bluetooth connectivity, plug in your TF/micro SD card or play right from the source with the included line in aux cable. Measuring at just under 8cm wide, the Mifa Bluetooth Speaker is ideal for days out in the open air and will easily slide into a pocket or bag.

101 THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU DIE Each page has details on how to perform the activity, spaces for notes and in the top corner, a place for a star sticker to show that you have completed this challenge. All the colour coded sticky stars are found at the back of the book.

FLICKERING FLAME CANDLES The Flickering Flame Candles are the most realistic artificial candles. The candle itself is actually coated in wax, which only adds to the realism. Even up close the effect is still extremely impressive, and we guarantee the first time you see it you’ll be tempted to reach out and touch it.

Technology giant Apple has announced that it will be taking its iWork for iCloud apps to a multi-platform, which will also be available to Internet users on any device. Comparable to Google Docs, users will now be able to get an Apple ID and access the apps without needing your own Mac, iPhone, or iPad. Users had needed an Apple ID before they could access word app Pages, spreadsheet app Numbers, and Powerpointa-like Keynote. Those who do sign up to use iWork for iCloud apps get 1GB of free storage so they can save files in Apple's apps and access them across different devices even if they only have access to Windows, Android, or Linux machines. For now, the option to use the apps only exists if you sign up on iWork for iCloud's beta site — Apple has yet to announce plans to expand the feature to the standard version of its iWork apps.

Controversial Cab Company Launches in Birmingham

merican-owned cab company Uber, which has courted much controversy in the international arena over the past few years, is set to launch in Birmingham. The service, which allows customers to book private hire vehicles via the Uber smartphone app, sparked protests in London which brought the city to a standstill. Traditional cabbies in the country's capital objected to the manner in which the web-based taxi firm calculated ride fares, which is similar to the way a taxi meter works and is permissible solely for black cabs to use. The company has also faced many problems around the world, having found itself banned in India following a female passenger's rape by her Uber taxi driver. The cab company is also unable to provide all of its services in Germany, where some services which failed to comply with German law have been banned. Despite the controversy surrounding it, the San

THE LEGACY CONTRACT Facebook Rolls Out New Policy After User Death

A WORLD WITHOUT FLASH The latest M o z i l l a Firefox update has given users a glimpse of using browsers without the need of flash. Since Mozilla started applying tools in its browser that let websites to run Flash videos without the need for a plugin, Adobe Flash's days were already numbered. The tool only currently works on Amazon product tour videos on Windows and Mac OS X, plans have

been announced to roll the feature out to all platforms. YouTube has already opted out of continuing to use flash and instead starting to use HTML 5, however certain elements of flash are still required. Ever since Apple determined that Flash would not be used in its iOS mobile devices, the shift towards HTML 5 started to begin, yet popular browsers such as Google Chrome still maintain a built-in version of Flash.

Francisco-based firm is predicting success in Birmingham, where bosses are confident the cab company's services meet all local licensing rules as well as safety regulations. The app, which allows passengers to order a lift with the touch of a smartphone button, also provides details of customers' waiting times as well as estimated journey costs. The cashless service, which charges fares directly to a passengers' bank cards, matches up app users with nearby Uber drivers. The service will initially cover Birmingham and Solihull and has already seen some interest amongst smartphone users with Mr Ali saying at least 20,000 people have launched the app in the last 90 days alone. Though customers have been warned that peak time fares will be higher than the off peak period, the company claims that their prices are lower than those of traditional black cabs the majority of the time.

Leading social media organisation, Facebook, has created a new policy in which users will be given the option of having their account permanently deleted after they die. The other option that users will be given is having a friend or family member take control of certain aspects of their account, known as the ‘Legacy Contract.’ Declaring the new feature, Facebook said, "When a

person passes away, their account can become a memorial of their life, friendships and experience. Once a person has passed away, Facebook will memorialise the account and the legacy contact will be able to, write a post to display at the top of the memorialised Timeline, for example, to announce a memorial service or share a special message, respond to new friend requests from family members and friends who were not yet connected on Facebook and Update the profile picture and cover photo. Previous settings will stay the same. The legacy contact will not be able to log in as the person who died or see their private messages.

MARCH 2015

THE ASIAN TODAY 2002 Birkby House Fire Suspect Detained A man who was arrested in connection with a fire which claimed the lives of eight people in Kirklees in 2002 has been detained in a non EU country. The 32-year-old was detained by police in the early hours of January 22 following months of detailed enquiries. His detention followed close work between West Yorkshire Police and local authorities as part of a 12 and half year enquiry into a house fire in Birkby, Huddersfield,

33, and brother-in-law Adeel Muhammad, 35, both from Birmingham, also appeared in court having been charged with assisting an offender. The couple, who did not enter pleas at court and are currently on bail, are accused of providing Tariq with both transport and accommodation with the intention of impeding arrest. The trial continues.

NATIONAL

SOARS

PRESTON MUSLIM GIRL'S HIGH SCHOOL

which claimed the lives of five children and three adults - all members of the Chisti family. Judicial proceedings are now underway to return him to the UK to face charges. The 32-year-old was arrested in connection with the fire by West Yorkshire Police in 2002, but failed to answer bail and has since been sought by authorities. Three Huddersfield men were tried, convicted and sentenced in 2003 for the fatal house fire.

Man Denies Murdering His Mother in Law

A Wolverhampton man has denied murdering the mother of his estranged wife in Pakistan. Tariq Rana, 31, is accused of murdering his motherin-law, Gulam Asia, in Pakistan. 49-year-old Gulam was outside her home in Lahore when she was shot several times, leading to her death. Tariq, who appeared via video-link at the Old Bailey, was remanded at custody. His sister, Nargus Ahmed,

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Lancashire -based school has been named as one of the country's best, having soared through the ranks of state schools in England. Preston Muslim Girl's High, which only became governmentfunded three years ago, has been listed in the nation's top 100 state schools for the second year running and is now amongst the top three per cent of non-selective schools. The school's h e a d t e a c h e r, Mufti Javid Pathan, has received a letter

"My thanks also to you personally and to your leadership team for continuing the drive towards the highest standards of educational achievement."

from Schools Minister David Laws congratulating the school for the “excellent value added score” it had achieved in 2014. The Schools Minister also wrote: "My thanks also to you personally and to your leadership team for continuing the drive towards the highest standards of educational achievement." The high praise came as a direct result of the school's significant improvement in pupils' progress in the years between starting the high school and taking their GCSEs. The school's head, Mr Pathan, said: “This is the second consecutive year we have done this. “We had our first results

as a state school in 2012 so we are very pleased indeed to have done so well.” Housed in the Madrassa in Deepdale Mill Street, the school was privately funded until 2011 when it had only 169 students In the past four years since it converted to a state secondary school, the number of pupils have more than doubled to 364 pupils. Mr Pathan has said that the number is expected to increase to 400 pupils in September of this year. The school, which is currently rated as Good by Ofsted and has received a glowing report from the education watchdog, continues to be oversubscribed.

BATTLING CANCER

• HUMBLED: Fiaz Ismail said

he was just doing his job

to purchase a biological toxin or agent and, according to police, no further action against the girl will be taking. Greater Manchester Police have stated that there was no intelligence or evidence which indicates that communities within the area were at risk due to the incident.

GET IN TOUCH WITH US TODAY!

Terror Raid in Tameside – Teenage Boy Charged

A teenager in Greater Manchester has been charged with attempting to acquire a biological toxin after antiterror raids in the area. The 16-year-old boy, who was detained alongside a girl of the same age, is set to appear at Tameside Magistrates Court. The boy is accused of trying

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WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM

ON THE BEAT

dedicated police officer who battled cancer whilst on the beat has been recognised at the Met Police commissioner’s awards. PCSO Fiaz Ismail, who returned to work despite having been diagnosed

with leukaemia three months before, was presented the Commitment to Professionalism Whilst Overcoming Adversity accolade at the Commissioner’s Excellence in Total Policing Awards. The dad of three, who was

"I thought 'I'm too young to put my feet up. I'm too young to die."

diagnosed with the rare form of cancer and returned to work just weeks after undergoing chemotherapy at Barts hospital, said: “My wife Maria did all the hard work looking after our children while I was in hospital. “She probably deserves the

medal more than me.” The 38-year-old added: “As soon as I was well enough, and the doctor agreed, I came back to work. “Since then I’ve been back at work in the town centre and hopefully making a difference.”

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INTERNATIONAL

THE ASIAN TODAY Polio Workers Found Dead Four members of a Pakistani polio vaccination team who were abducted by Taliban militants have been found shot dead in the south-west of the country. The bodies of the team, which comprised of a health worker, his driver and two security guards, were found in the region of Balochistan, four days after they had been kidnapped. Polio teams have become a key target of Islamic militants in Pakistan who oppose the polio vaccination, contending that vaccination efforts are part of a western conspiracy to sterilise Pakistani children.

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INTERNATIONAL

Chapel Hill Murders: The mother of one of the three victims of the Chapel Hill victims paid tribute to the trio and called on police to investigate the incident as a hate crime. Deah Barakat’s mother said, “His legacy is never hate. “You don't respond back by hating the other. You respond back by love. By peace, by mercy. That's Deah's way.” Deah Shaddy Barakat, 23, his wife Yusor Abu-Salha, 21 and

officers found the three young individuals, who were pronounced dead at the scene. A 46-year-old had been arrested by police who was later named as Craig Stephen Hicks who was later charged with three accounts of murder. He had openly described himself as an atheist whilst condemning all religions. According to local reports, Hicks handed himself in last night. Mr Hicks was a neighbour of • Murder: Victims Deah Shaddy Barakat

his wife Yusor Mohammad and Razan Mohammad Abu-Salha

POWER OF FILM TO PREVENT GLOBAL CRISES

CAUSING A RIPPLES "They continue to inspire the next generation of girls to conserve resources and use innovative methods to tackle an issue that affects over two billion people everyday..."

"You don't respond back with hate" The shootings are the latest in a series of attacks on Pakistani polio teams, which have claimed the lives of at least 70 polio workers in the past four years. "The situation is very tense and people are angry at security forces who are unable to trace the culprits," said a senior official in the city of Zhob where the abduction took place.

her sister, Razan Abu-Salha, 19, were shot dead in a quiet North Carolina town. Both Razan and Yusor had been students are the nearby North Carolina University, whilst Barakat had been a doctoral student in UNC-Chapel Hill’s School of Dentistry. Police had responded to a number of gunshots in the typically quiet area of Summerwalk Circle in Chapel Hill at around 5.11pm on Tuesday evening. Upon arrival,

the students and police say the incident was related to a longstanding dispute over parking. In shock and disbelief, people took to social media to voice their anger as fears grew that the attack was sparked by the victims’ religious beliefs. Many within the Muslim community believe the attack had been related to religious or ethnic discrimination with the father of the two women who lost their lives has calling it a hate crime.

•

RIPPLES: Sarah collecting her distinction at the Girls Impact The World Film Festival

“NO ENGLISH” - INDIAN GRANDFATHER ASSAULTED BY U.S. POLICE The South Asian community in the United States joined forces with other concerned citizens to raise more than $125,000 in support of an Indian grandfather who was left hospitalised after an assault by police officers. Sureshbhai Patel, a 57-year-old farmer from Gujrarat, went for a routine walk in the suburban neighbourhood in Alabama where his son lives on the day of the incident. He was approached by police concerning a call on a

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suspicious man peering into garages. Patel, who can only speak Hindi and Gujarati, told police “No English” before one of the officers slammed him face-down onto the asphalt. The local community pulled together to cover the uninsured victim's medical expenses. The Madison Police Department has since arrested and fired police officer Eric Parker due to the incident.

Twitter: @Jassansi

• HOSPITALISED - Sureshbhai

Patel Remains In Hospital recovering From His Injuries

WHO BLEW• UP THE BOAT?

BOAT: Pakistani boat explosion

Indian Government Under Pressure to Come Clean Authorities in India have come under pressure to clarify what caused a Pakistani fishing boat to explode, killing at least four people on board in ‘mysterious circumstances’. Allegations are rife after a senior Indian coast guard official said the boat had been deliberately targeted. Deputy Inspector General of the Indian coast guard, B.K. Loshali, is shown in a video, released by

newspaper Indian Express giving an order to attack the boat as it approached Indian waters last New Year's Eve. The comments disagree with the Indian government's version that the boat, laden with explosives, was intercepted by the coast guard. The news comes as India and Pakistan's foreign secretaries are set to resume talks next month for the first time since May.

• RIPPLES:

Sarah Khan, one of the five Pakistani women featured in BBC's 2014 list of 100 Women

teenage awardwinning film-maker from Pakistan, who is using the power of film to lead a drive in social change within her home country, has released her second film, The Ripple Effect, to much praise. Sarah Khan, one of the five Pakistani women featured in BBC's 2014 list of 100 Women, a list described by the BBC as containing“a mixture of female trail-blazers” and “grassroots campaigners”, first came into the limelight after being awarded the second prize at an international film festival at Harvard University last year. The 16-year-old, who met one of her inspirations, the economist Mohammad Yunus, through the international film festival where he was on the judges' panel alongside the actor and philanthropist Ian Somerhalder, has used her most recent film to explore how the access to potable water has transformed the lives of rural women in the country. The Ripple Effect follows women in rural Pakistan who adopted innovative methods of conserving rainwater after seasonal patterns within the country began to change which resulted in rainfall becoming scarce. No longer being forced to make the back-breaking journey to fetch water every day allowed these women from Chakwal to enjoy a new-found freedom to earn an income which they could invest into their children's futures. Speaking of the reception of her film, Sarah explained: “It got positive reviews, especially because it shows rural Pakistani women and girls in such a positive light.” “It shows how they are using simple, innovative methods to prevent a global crisis and how they are taking the lead and telling other people to follow them.” The aspiring young filmmaker, who uses the process of filming to highlight issues faced by rural women within their communities, said of these women: “They continue to inspire the next generation of girls to conserve resources and use innovative methods to tackle an issue that affects over two billion people every day.” Sarah is now set to share her experiences as an alumnus of the programme at Harvard University. @theasiantoday /theasiantoday

MARCH 2015

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Suri Singh, born and raised Londoner and media head who once lived the dream in Bollywood. One time Associate Editor of a National lifestyle magazine, giving you his perspective on all things relevant. Share his world on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @aboycalledsuri

"Distracted from distraction by distraction” – A line taken from a T S Eliot poem resonating the changing air of our generation today. Read it as it’s written and make sense of it how you wish. The truth is human relationships used to be easy; we had friends, boy/girlfriends, parents, siblings, children, and colleagues. Now, thanks to social media, it's all gone sideways. The more we have, the more we 'think' we're connecting. It’s questionable whether we really are - Or are we in fact ‘disconnecting’ from one another?

Smart phones, technology and social media combined have evidently expanded our universe. Everywhere you look you will find heads positioned slightly downwards, a phone in one hand, scrolling, tapping, typing, completely engrossed and unconscious of our surroundings. Distracted. Flourishing social media is no longer just a spoke on the wheel of marketing - It's becoming the way entire bicycles are built. Brand awareness has grown, along with it loyalty. We know more about our audiences than ever. Feedback is instant, our web habits are closely monitored, Who is really watching technology does your every move, checkthe math for us in, location tag and posts and presents on a daily basis? back what it feels would be our most relevant ‘fit’. Controlled. Positively, we have the The words 'social' and ease of staying in touch 'media' have evolved no matter where in the over the years, creating a world we are. Whatsapp, medium together that has FaceTime, Messenger and opened countless avenues more. It’s truly fascinating. around the globe. Business You could say that social Insider reported in July media allows us to choose 2014 that social networking when we fancy being giant Facebook has over 2.2 sociable or not. Choices. We billion monthly active users have so many yet we are still – that’s roughly one third of such bad communicators. the world’s population! Nobel prize winner Malala Yousafzai recently quoted, “what is interesting is the

power and the impact of social media... So we must try to use social media in a good way”. Each time you post, tag, like or comment online, you are contributing to and building your own personal brand – your digital footprint. This goes down in history. The danger of this new era of the world are the changing attitudes to what was once deemed unacceptable now being considered the norm. In 1999 Jill Dando, an English journalist, TV presenter and Newsreader was fatally shot outside her home in Fulham. A victim of ‘stalking’, the irony being that BBC's ‘Crimewatch’ was one of her finest pieces of work. Without technology, or any of these extended invasive options, it was the simple 'hide, follow and attack' approach that resulted in her unfortunate death. Fast-forward to present day and we’re openly inviting an array of people into our lives, 'hash tagging' ourselves into more 'likes', more 'followers' and more so called 'friends'. Who knows who’s actually viewing your shameless 'bathroom selfie'. The MTV show 'Catfish' MALALA YOUSAFZAI illustrates p r i m e examples What is interesting is the of being power and the impact of social p r e y e d media... So we must try to use on by social media in a good way. complete strangers.

BRAVE SHOPKEEPER FIGHTS OFF ARMED MEN Police are looking of two men who stole a crate of beer at gunpoint from a convenience store. The masked men threatened a shopkeeper in Vardon Supermarket on Vardon Way, Kings Norton with what appeared to be a handgun and demanded money, but the shopkeeper immediately activated his alarm and grabbed a baseball bat to fend off his

It's happening everywhere. Who is really watching your every move, checkin, location tag and posts on a daily basis? So, why are people so obsessed with seeking validation from others on social media? Unless you’re a restaurant critic, nobody cares what you had for dinner last night. We’re inflating our already inflamed view of oneself. Self-glorification. Agreed, it opens doors to what were previously 'insider only clubs' providing frontrow seating in places most

In this age, you must be relentlessly remarkable to stay relevant.

attackers leaving them to make off with nothing more than the beer and a mobile phone. The robbery happened just after 7.30pm on Tuesday 6 January. Both men are described as white, in their 20s, around 5’10" − 6’ tall with a skinny build. One was wearing a blue jacket, a hooded top and tracksuit bottoms. The other wore a black jacket and black tracksuit bottoms. Investigating officer, DC Katie Morris said, "This was a violent and frightening robbery by two men who had no regard for the safety of the shopkeeper or his customers.

Man is by nature a social animal; an individual who is unsocial naturally and not accidentally is either beneath our notice or more than human. without pulling your only dream off. Is this phone into view to watch aspirational or just another it through technology form of distracting the instead. masses into optimistic In Aristotle’s words, unrealistic teasers that lead "Man is by nature a social you to detest your 'real' life animal; an individual who even more. Altered. is unsocial naturally and How different would not accidentally is either people act if they couldn't beneath our notice or more show off on social media? than human. Society is Would they still do it? something that precedes In this age, you must be the individual.” relentlessly remarkable to You are as aware or as stay relevant, if not you’ll be distracted as you choose to relegated. be. Alter if you need to but, Ask yourself when you importantly, stay in control. last watched the news instead of relying on your 'Timeline' to update you. We’re openly inviting When did you an array of people into last go to dinner our lives, 'hash tagging' and not check ourselves into more your phone every 'likes', more 'followers' 10 minutes, last witness and more so called s o m e t h i n g 'friends'. i n c r e d i b l e

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Actress: Meera Syal

Author: Huma Qureshi

Sports: Samera Ashraf Having successfully scooped up a Pride of Edinburgh Award and an Asian Woman of Achievements Award for her sporting achievements, Samera Ashraf has fought every obstacle thrown at her. Culture, domestic abuse and self harming were just some of the barriers faced by the 31-year-old.

Businesswoman: Parvy Rakar

Her book, In Spite of Oceans, recently won the John C. Laurence Award for helping to improve understanding of culture through writing. While the book tackles many aspects of life in Britain for immigrants from the Indian subcontinent, its themes of grief and loneliness are universal.

Having been awarded both a MBE and CBE, Meera Syal is no stranger to the British entertainment industry. Three decades of work dedicated to stage and screen, the actress has become synonymous to as the most iconic south-Asian actress to grace both television and theatre.

MARCH 2015

Wedding planner and accomplished businesswoman, Parvy Rakar is living the high-life. Having ditched a 16-year-old career as a business manager in the care industry, she decided to follow her heart and embrace her dream. And the move proved just right after she was announced as Wedding Planner of the Year in 2014.

Chef: Dipna Anand Award-winning chef, Dipna Anand comes from the ultimate dynasty of Indian cooking. Her deliciously healthy meals have mesmerised the taste buds of many restaurant-goers. British Curry Awardwinning Dipna prides herself on enlightening people about the health benefits of curry - that it can be healthy and nutritious.

MAKING IT HAPPEN Asian Women Mark Their Place in History

#Makeithappen International Women's Day 2015

Fashion: Gaby Manchanda

Sunday, March 8th 2015 marks International Women’s Day. A day in which the strengths, achievements and accomplishments of women, all over the world are acknowledged. International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women in our community who

Media: Sameena Ali-Khan Having started her career on commercial radio, Sameena Ali-Khan has become a household name. She was asked to do a screen test which transferred into radio and television for the BBC in Manchester, Birmingham and London. She’s won several awards including the RTS Best On Screen Personality.

Known for her bespoke collections as well a being the business partner to Noreen Khan, Gaby Manchanda has established herself quite firmly within the British Asian fashion industry. With a personal touch and a stroke of elegance, her styles and designs have had a real impact on fashion industry.

have defied all expectations. This year’s theme is #MakeitHappen. The campaign will be encouraging effective action for advancing and recognising women. So this year we will take a look at women from the Asian community who have excelled in their individual industry.

Entertainment: DJ Nav

Community: Shaista Gohir Referred to as one of the most powerful Muslim woman in Britain, Shaista Gohir has used her own personal experiences to tackle the abuse and violence women face. Creating the Muslim Women's Network UK by transforming a small informal group of Muslim women into the only national Muslim women's organisation in Britain.

Short Film: Deeyah Khan

Officially known as the World’s Premier Asian Female DJ, Nav has defied many stereotypes. Her unique talent, combined with her passion for classic as well as modern Punjabi music, she has been able to firmly cement herself in a purely male industry.

Deeyah Khan is an internationally acclaimed documentary maker. Her work, usually, highlights human rights issues, female empowerment and freedom of expression. The experience of living between different cultures, both the beauty and the challenges, dominates her artistic vision and has won her several international awards.

#AsianWomenMeanBiz #AsianWomenMean on Twitter every Wednesday 7-8PM www.asianwomenmeanbusiness.com

AWMB TURNS ONE! We actually can’t believe it but we have turned on! How did that happen so quickly?!?! It was in February 2014 that Panna had organised an ‘Asian Women in Business’ networking event in Ealing. She had connected with me as she had heard that I was passionate about empowering more Asian women into starting and growing their business. She invited me to speak at her event where I shared my vision along with success

tips. At the end of the Panna I and had a long chat about our shared vision, values and ambitions we decided it made sense to partner… and that’s how Asian Women MEAN Business came about! It’s been an interesting journey that has involved events in London & Birmingham, TV appearances, radio interviews, a monthly page in a newspaper, MP’s, talks, award ceremonies , invitations to many influential events!

Love Yourself Event

• Panna and Rupinder with Sadhna, Prabha and Jaina

We’re most proud of watching our community thrive. Seeing women collaborate with each other, push and champion each other to strive for further success – it really has been an honour to witness! It would be a lie if I said it was all plain sailing, we have had moments of doubt, and have had to rein back our ambitions so that we are building a sustainable organisation not least balancing our other commitments with AWMB.

On Sunday 15th February we were joined by 30 wonderful ladies at our usual venue Ealing Golf Club for a ‘Love Yourself’ Event organised by three brilliant ladies in our community. The day included three talks by hosts Sadhna, Prabha and Jaina. Jaina spoke of the importance of loving yourself and how we can do that Asian Women MEAN Business

NEXT EVENT:

Stay up to date with all of our events and news by following us on Social Media or visit us on:

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s.com

Power of words

But there are no regrets only pride and gratitude at how far we have come and what we have achieved. Thank you to everyone who has supported us along the way – we appreciate the support! We celebrated our fist anniversary where it all started at Ealing Golf Club attending an event arranged by three wonderful ladies in our community – a very fitting way to celebrate our first year!

in practical ways (we’ve shared her tips!). Sadhna shared with us the value of balance and how to mange stress in our busy lives. She led us through a vislaotion excerice whoch was incredibly porwerful and grounding. Prabha was the final speaker and discussed the emotions we attach to food and how to control cravings. All

@A_W_M_B

info@awmb.co.uk

At the Love Yourself event Sadhna shared an incredible experiment with us that is worth resharing here. Dr. Emoto took water droplets, exposed them to various words, music, and environments, and froze them for three hours. He then examined the crystal formations under a dark field microscope. And he took photographs. The results were totally mind-blowing. Here’s a photo of ordinary water without any prayer spoken over it. The molecular structure is in disarray.

the talks explored the approach and importance of loving yourself as well as activities including tasters in reiki healing, healthy juicing, meditation, personalised colour styling, neck and shoulder massage, jewellery to enhance your personality and hand made chocolates! We concluded the event with a cake.

The photo below is water after the prayer was said. It’s simply breathtaking. How does this impact you? 72% of your body is made up of water. Imagine how your words affect your own body. When you say, “I’m a failure,” or “I’m hopeless,” or “I won’t get well,” imagine how these words weaken your health. Make a choice to say the best words out there. Say often, “I’m wonderful,” and “I’m beautiful,” and “I am strong’. Watch the impact it makes to your life!

Tips on How to Love Yourself: 1. Take care of your health and well being 2. Internally talk to yourself as a friend (a nice friend!) 3. Give yourself a sense of approval 4. Do things that bring you joy & happiness 5. Be kind to yourself and others

Prabha (www.FlourishWell.co.uk ), Sadhna (www. rebalancinglife.com) and Jaina (www.yogawithjaina.com)

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BUSINESS

THE ASIAN TODAY

• BUSINESSWOMAN: Farnaz Khan Image (c) Georgi Abdul Majid

In search of

LEADERSHIP

@ninderjohal

Farnaz Khan and her Awardwinning Underwear Tell me about yourself.

UK CONTINUES TO POWER AHEAD Whilst the global market has slowed down and the Eurozone tinkers with uncertainty around Greece, the UK continues to power ahead. With low inflation, interest rates at only 0.5% ( stretching back 5 years ), increasing employment and GDP forecasted to be around 2.5% and record breaking equity markets both in the US and in the UK, means that the picture for the UK economy remains strong. But of course, this could all change. China has been slowing down for a while and India remains an enigma and with the continuing Russian and Ukraine conflict the UK economy could yet find itself in

problem because of external factors. But there is one final uncertainty which is internal. There is the small issue of the elections taking place in May. Other than issues around corporation tax and personal tax for those earning over £150k, there appears to be little to separate to the two main parties ( save the deficit argument ). But what is of greater interest is the make up of the next government. Whilst Business is largely supportive of remaining in the EU, the predicted coalition will have its own ideas. There is no certainly as to the likely makeup of the next government with all parties potentially being incumbents.

The Business community needs certainty in order to plan and ensure that it local community is gainfully employed and that we continue to celebrate all sectors of business to ensure that the upward trajectory of the UK economy continues. I therefore, look forward to seeing you at the Signature Awards due to take place on the 20th March at Edgbaston Stadium where we will be celebrating the best of business and business professionals from around the UK and more importantly identifying the next set of leaders to ensure that the UK remains a force in the ever increasing global marketplace.

TIME FOR RECOGNITION AND CELEBRATION The Asian community continues to thrive in all areas including the area of professional services. From setting up of their own businesses to playing key roles in the public sector, British Asians are also playing a key role in wealth generation by advising owners of businesses in

their capacity’s as either lawyers, accountants, land advisers or bankers on how to grow their businesses and increase prosperity for the community. Ninder Johal’s comments came as his company Nachural launches the Signature Awards which is due to take place on the

20th March at Edgbaston Stadium. In this uncertain world where ‘disruption’ is ever present, the role of the advisor is paramount. Businesses are so involved in their businesses that they need specialist help from qualified professionals who can assist in areas from access to finance to helping

THE

AWARDS 2015 Connect, network and celebrate with the best of asian professionals Date:

20th March 2015

Venue:

Edgbaston Stadium, Edgbaston Road, Birmingham, West Midlands B5 7QU

Timings: 6.30pm for 7.30pm – Midnight For further information please contact: Ninder Johal CEO ninder.johal@nachural.co.uk tel: 0870 609 4401 (office) mobile: 07774 116545 www.thesignatureawards.co.uk twitter: @ninderjohal Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/ninder-johal/3/a87/9a2

e v e n t s

Celebrating asian professionals

I’M FIT, BRITCHES!

with employment issues. ‘The awards is only part of the picture. The bigger picture is to encourage leadership capacity in the region as we continue to understand the global picture with an uncertain Eurozone, a slowing global economic picture and the need to create local prosperity. We hope in time to look at issues like mentoring and leadership development for our next level of leaders’ says Ninder Johal who is also president of the Black Country Chamber of Commerce and sits on the Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership board. We have had a strong response to nominations in part showing the strength of the business and financial sectors in the region. The Signature awards build on the success of the Black Country Asian Business Association which has seen a growing number of Asian businesses source access to funding through initiatives such as RGF and Growing Places schemes. Sponsors include Turkish Airlines, Cartwright King, Divya Group, The black tie awards dinner is due to take place on the 20th March at Edgbaston Stadium. Th event will be hosted by BBC’s Tommy Sandhu and the charity on the evening will be LoveBrum.

I’m a mum of 4, Bradford-born, award-winning serial entrepreneur who is passionate about innovation and unleashing the potential of the next generation. My journey started in my bathroom and is now making headlines worldwide.

Tell me about Fit Britches. Where did the idea come from? Fit Britches is an award winning innovative body shaping garment range clinically proven to help reduce the appearance of cellulite and lose inches off the waist, hips and thighs in just 30 days. Since launching Fit Britches has shipped to over 50+ countries worldwide. My journey began after having 4 children. I was struggling to get back into shape. When my youngest arrived, I was mortified to learn of another upcoming family wedding. So my first prototype (don’t laugh) was cling film and big undies. To cut a long story short my husband was wondering what is she doing in the bathroom? Mr Singh was wondering why she buying so much cling film? And the last straw was when my mum queried why my kameez was making strange noises. Thanks Mum! I looked for a discreet solution only to find it didn’t exist. So I set out to create it. After 5 years after intense research and development I launched Fit Britches.

You have won a number of awards since setting up your business, how has the journey been so far? Winner UK Start-ups 100 2014 and Shapewear brand of the year 2013 UK Lingerie Awards are some of my accolades. I was shortlisted for many awards which include going head to head with the likes of Eros International and one of my business heroes James Caan. Not bad for a girl who never finished school. Being recognised is a great feeling and every time it happens the feeling does not become any less special. It’s been a rollercoaster, some highs, some lows but it’s important to embrace every experience good or bad as there is always something to gain. I either win or I learn.

Secret of your success? My recipe is hard work, lots of passion, patience, perseverance and self belief. You’ve got to love what you do and do what you love, it may sound a bit like a cliché but if you grasp this you will never find any working day a day of work.

Describe to me how an average day in your life is like? Every day is different I could be on the road (or on a plane at times) having meetings one day, planning and designing my website, product range or marketing the next, as a business woman I wear many hats, no two days are ever the same. Follow Farnaz Khan @farnazkhan Fit Britches @fitbritches on Facebook and twitter.

Has being an Asian woman ever affected your business? Quite the opposite, I get heartfelt messages of encouragement from the British Asian community (and beyond), they mean so much to me. I am also often approached to give advice, speak at events and workshops all over the country. I’ve also written articles to try and help people. I’m all for waving the flag for entrepreneurship and women in business.

Advice to the next generation of Asian women entrepreneurs? Believe in yourself. By breaking the mould you are not only making a difference to the economy, the board room but you are setting an example to our children and the future.

TO READ THE FULL INTERVIEW VISIT OUR WEBSITE: WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM

PROPERTY

MARCH 2015

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THE ASIAN TODAY

PROPERTY

HOME REPOSSESSIONS RICS: PROPERTY

FALL

49% more surveyors saw prices fall

Out of the 21,000 the total number of repossessions, 16,100 were on owner occupied properties and 4,900 were on buy to let properties.

he figure of homes being repossessed has fallen by 26% compared to the previous year, the lowest since 2006. At 0.3%, the repossession rate on buy to let mortgages was higher than the 0.17% on owner occupier loans, despite the fact that the original arrears rate was lower on buy to let lending than on home owner lending. The CML said that this is unsurprising, as lenders offer extended forbearance to owner occupiers to help them get through periods of financial difficulty without losing their home. Some 1.05% of all mortgages were in arrears equivalent to 2.5% or more

MARKETS VARYING RESIDENTIAL PRICES FALLING

Lowest Since 2006

House lending approvals have seen the fastest month on month increase in 5 years of the mortgage balance, down from 1.29% at the end of 2013 and 1.12% at the end of the third quarter of 2014. In numerical terms, this equates to 116,800 loans, down from 124,400 at the end of the third quarter, and 144,600 at the end of 2013. Within the total number of

mortgages in arrears, there was also a decline in all of the individual arrears bands. Even among the heaviest arrears band, more than 10%, there was a 14% decline year on year to 24,700 cases at the end of 2014, some 5% lower than at the end of the third quarter.

Supply and demand was mixed across the residential property market in January and 49% more surveyors saw prices fall. Nationally, the number of potential new buyer enquiries fell for the seventh consecutive month, whilst Scotland saw the greatest buyer interest with several respondents suggesting the new Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) will prompt more first time buyers to get on the property ladder. However, the survey from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) shows that the national

SALES

BROMFORD COuRT, B8

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results, which are based on England and Wales only, continue to signal a cooling market and price growth has all but levelled off with just 2% more surveyors expecting prices to increase over the next three months, its slowest pace since May 2013. The survey shows that within England, London market conditions continue to deteriorate with prices, buyer enquiries and sales falling. Some 49% more respondents saw prices in the capital decline and the short-term confidence outlook is negative, despite the longer terms sales outlook being more upbeat.

LETTINGS

RENTS INCREASE The standard rent amount in the UK is now £836 per calendar month, an increase of 2% year on year as demand. Data from the latest studies report from shows that one and two bedroom properties saw the biggest boost in rent up 8.5% and 3.6% to £751 and £810 respectively. While three bedroom properties recorded a 1.6% increase to £930, however, four bedroom plus properties experienced a 3% decrease to £1,345 per calendar month. On a regional basis Greater London had he largest annual increase in rent, up 10.6% to £1,265, followed by Wales up 6.1% to £666 and the South West up 4.1% to £765. A breakdown of the figures shows that the average rent for newly let properties was £883, an increase of 2.8%. In this sector one and two bedroom properties saw the largest growth in rents year on year, increasing 3.3% and 1.9% respectively.

MORTGAGES

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Road Safety: Child Fatalities on the Rise

According to latest figures, the number of children killed or seriously injured on British roads has hit an upsetting 20year high. Figures from the Department of Transport shows the year of 2013/2014 is the first time the statistics have risen since 1995. RAC head of external affairs Pete Williams said: "It is alarming to see that years of progress on road safety appears to have come to an abrupt halt, with this increase going against the trend of falls in road fatalities and casualties for almost all of the last thirty years. "These worrying figures are also a reminder for this and the next government of the need to set national targets for reductions in road fatalities and serious accidents. There can no longer be any justification to resist setting these, and we know historically such targets has proved effective in helping to focus efforts and prioritise actions to reduce casualties."

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he new 2015 Volkswagen Passat is one of the most innovative cars in its class. Equipped with progressive drive, assistance and infotainment systems, it is high-tech encapsulated in a powerful design with sharp proportions. The eighth generation Passat is currently being launched in Europe, and already, Volkswagen has come up with something more: the German car maker recently showcased the Passat GTE in a world premiere at the Paris Motor Show – the first Passat with a plug-in hybrid drive system. "This Passat heralds in a new era: when it comes to design and proportions, engines and drive systems, Infotainment and assistance systems or when it is a matter of safety, convenience and driving pleasure," explained Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management

of Volkswagen on the evening before 500 guests. The Group chief continued: "The new Passat gives the right answers to the major automotive trends of its time. For me this Passat is a premium class car without premium costs. This fits perfectly to Europe's most successful business car – lining up with 20 percent better fuel economy, up to 85 kilograms less weight and a range of efficient petrol and diesel engines – there is even a plugin hybrid available." All ve Driverless Vehicles: rsions of the Passat belong to the most successful midsize cars in the world and at 1.1 million units a year (2013) it is the Volkswagen Group's model series with the highest volume sold world-wide. To continue this success in the eighth generation, the new Passat is again offered in saloon and estate versions with a multitude of innovations. Thanks to cutting-edge design

methods its proportions were made significantly more dynamic (including lower body, longer wheelbase and larger wheels). At the same time, the latest technologies have been applied. They include systems such as Active Info display (a fully digital instrument cluster), extendible head-up display as well as systems such as an app-based Rear Seat Entertainment for tablet computers, Front Assist plus City Emergency Braking with P e d e s t r i a n M o n i t o r i n g and three more world firsts: Emergency Assist (vehicle stops in emergency), Trailer Assist (assisted manoeuvring with a trailer) and Traffic Jam Assist.

Young Drivers at Risk New Schemes Introduced to Prevent Young Drivers Accidents Measures have been called to tackle the high number of serious crashes involving young drivers. The Association of British Insurers (ABI) wants stronger safeguards introduced for young beginner drivers in order to maintain road safety and lower

the cost of car insurance premiums. Young drivers may have a minimum time period to learn to drive to get used to different driving in conditions, there may also be a limit to the number of passengers they carry six months after they pass.

Vince Cable has given his support to the idea of driverless cars. Having benefited from a ride outside of the O2 Arena on a Meridian shuttle alongside Transport Minister Claire Perry, the Business Secretary said the self-sufficient car could improve road safety and ease congestion. The Meridian shuttle is set to take part in driverless vehicle trials in London, Bristol, Coventry and Milton Keynes over the next three years, which is funded by a £19 million Government grant.

CAR SALES TO RISE? Cheap finance, f l a t prices, h i g h consumer hopes and a weak euro are said to contribute to a

optimistic outlook for the motor industry in the coming year. The news comes on the eve of next month's plateswitch, traditionally car dealers' busiest time in the calendar.

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SPORTS

ICC CRICKET WORLD CUP 2015 - THE STORY SO FAR.... AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

INDIA

STATISTICS

Afghanistan

Afghanistan's Makes World Cup Debut Even though they did not receive the dream finish they were hoping for, Afghanistan’s debut in it’s first-ever cricket World Cup, had a much greater significance than the score they made. Its rapid rise up the cricket ranks has

resulted in an equally fast growth of the sport’s popularity in Afghanistan, while its qualification for the 2015 World Cup has given Afghans a rare chance to see their nation highlighted on one of the biggest sporting stages.

SHIKHAR DAWAN

PAKISTAN STATISTICS

• Most Runs: Misbah-ul-Haq (83 runs) • Most Wickets: Sohail Khan (6 wickets) • Most Sixes: Misbah-ul-Haq

Pakistan

Pakistan's Hiccup After being blown away in their opening match by arch rivals India, Pakistan were then ripped apart by West Indies in their second match. Having dropped four catches alone in their match against the West Indians,

the green team had not done themselves any favours. A well-known fact is that catches win matches. The scars of defeat against India were still fresh when West Indies rubbed more salt into them.

Putting their frustrations of a washedout match against Bangladesh behind them, Australia is now focusing on topping their group. Anything less than a win would be a huge disappointment for

the home-team as they look to conquer the cup on home turf. A solid performance against England which saw the Aussies win with a margin of 111 runs showed strength from a young passionate squad.

Bangladesh

Tigers Out to Play Nothing spectacular from the Tigers as mediocre performance against debutants Afghanistan and washed out match against Australia gives them a mid-table standing. However, Bangladesh will soon have to start

picking up their pace, as both New Zealand and Sri Lanka wait – with both seeking to go through to the next stage. With many game changers amongst their first-team options, Bangladesh may not be the underdogs anymore.

MISBAH UL - HAQ

AUSTRALIA STATISTICS

MITCHELL MARSH

Australia

Aussies Set to Win

• Most Runs: Shikhar Dhawan (210 runs) • Most Wickets: Mohammed Shami (6 wickets) • Most Sixes: Shikhar Dhawan

• Most Runs: Aaron Finch (135 runs) • Most Wickets: Mitchell Marsh (5 wickets) • Most Sixes: Aaron Finch

NEW ZEALAND STATISTICS

• Most Runs: Brendon McCullum (157 runs) • Most Wickets: Tim Southee (8 wickets) • Most Sixes: Brendon McCullum

TIM SOUTHEE

VIRAT KHOLI SCO England

Scotland

Nothing to Lose Scotland have all to gain and nothing to lose in this tournament. However, even though they are still investigating the reins, they are in it to win it. Having opened their campaign

against co-hosts New Zealand, their optimism was worn thin when the Kiwis pulled off a very tight 3-wicket win. England were not too lenient on the Scottish too as they went onto rout them 119 runs.

GIRLS CAN PLAY SPORTS TOO. DEAL WITH IT

England still Behind England’s World Cup campaign finally got underway after a solid performance against Scotland. Moeen Ali’s impressive century gave life to a very under-confident team as well as a very

Zaf’s Mission to Boost Female Sports Participation

The story of Birmingham’s awardwinning community worker, Mohammed Zafran, is known to many. The course of his philanthropic role has taken on a new route -

Asian female participation in grassroots sports. However, his ever-growing tally of awards has not beaten the many obstacles and challenges to boost the numbers of women in sport, especially those from an

Asian background. Having already gone on to help over 2000 women in sport through his academy, All 4 Youth and Community, he is still facing obstructions with parents allowing their daughters to take part. Challenging the misconceptions and misleading perceptions, the task hasn’t been easy for Zaf. “I looked around and there was a big issue regarding a lot of the women especially in the Asian Muslim culture,” Zafran told Sportswomen on Sky Sports News HQ.

“When they reached the age of 15 they weren’t allowed to study or participate in any

academy. “They were saying things like ‘it has never been introduced

"I came across the need to focus on the issue on young women who were forced in to quitting education at the age of 15" sports. “They (parents) were mixing family culture with religious values so I had a lengthy conversation with parents and we set up our own women’s

around here before especially in some of the deprived areas and we don’t know what is going to happen with them and how independent they (the girls) are going to get.

relieved Eoin Morgan. Unfortunately, England’s biggest concern is the fact that many of their experienced players are still under-performing. Their win may have been convincing, but it was no team-win.

What is the benefit of sport? There is no use for it especially in the Asian culture’. “But that is narrowminded thinking like that.” Speaking to The Asian Today, he added: "I came across the need to focus on the issue on young women who were forced in to quitting education at the age of 15 and not being able to have any career based opportunities later on in life due to family values and pressure."

DO FI FO M

VS PAKISTAN SPORTS

South Africa

Stunned Silence Still shocked from their brilliant mauling at the hands of India, South Africa will have to pick up their confidence and a bit of their game. Being bowled out for 177 did not help, especially since they intend to go the whole way. In a classic case of just moving on, the Proteas will have to bounce back.

RIVALRY UNMATCHED

An India and Pakistan encounter, on any cricket field, is guaranteed to be an unmissable event. In front of 41,587 passionate fans, it makes for the kind of spectacle that few other sporting showdowns can rival. However, it was highflying India that managed to take the win, by a staggering 74 wins. This was to have been Pakistan’s

best chance to arrest a five-match losing streak to India in ICC Cricket World Cups. However, an energised Indian team ensured a sixth World Cup win over its neighbour. Virat Kohli’s 22nd One-day International century, which split entertaining half-centuries from Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina, set up India’s impressive 300 for 7.

Losing to co-hosts New Zealand was confidence draining, but Sri Lanka kept their cool to win against new boys Afghanistan. With the guidance of senior players the team have managed to keep the faith and not panic, however their experienced players will have to pick the team up and get through the next couple of games.

India

Executing Opponents

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in any rush to hand it over. Their clinical mauling of South Africa, as well as Pakistan, was a clear message to not only their group, but the entire world.

Ireland

The lucky Irish Ireland started with a bang after a huge win against the West Indies, showing that they have nothing to lose in this world cup. Even though their unexpected win got their world cup

campaign underway, the Irish have got ALOT of work to do. They will have to face the likes of India and South Africa – two teams which are vying to win their remaining matches.

New Zealand

Confidently Arrogant After inflicting heavy defeats upon both England and Sri Lanka, New Zealand have set themselves as the tournaments new favourites. Rekindling the passion and fire that

keeps stemming up for some time, the team has been perfect in their all round performance. Taking each opportunity as it comes, the Kiwis have not let their opponents take their chances.

ANOTHER AWARD FOR ZAF Mohammed Zafran, the award-winning Community Liasion Officer at South and City College Birmingham, has been recognised once more for his inspirational work in the local community. The award-winning philanthropist has recently added another award to his mantle piece, having won the Local Hero of The Year Award at the Inaugural Pride of Sport Awards.

Known to many in the West Midlands as Zaf, his remarkable dedication and courageous actions in promoting motivation and competitiveness in youngsters has led Zaf to make a positive impact on more than 7,500 young people in Birmingham. By involving youths who would have otherwise been up to no good in the

SAEED AJMAL TO JOIN WORCESTERSHIRE COUNTY CRICKET CLUB

Don't Panic

Good Form India’s performance has been nothing less than impressive. The defending champions were keen to stress from the start that they want to hold on to their cup…and were not

Sri Lanka

Zimbabwe

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Having put up a fight against South Africa and then won against UAE, Zimbabwe are enjoying their new found freedom. Taking a well-deserved confidence boost against the Proteas, they then went on to use that against opponents. Giving other teams a run for their money.

UAE

Calm & Confident They come across as calm, confident and determined in their battling and are well adjusted under pressure. Their first match against Zimbabwe saw them post an impressive 285 on the board, having hoped to get 300. Having ended up in a group which included India amongst others, they definitely are one to watch.

West Indies

Suprise Suprise! The West Indies have been the surprise team in more ways than one…both good and bad. Having lost to underdogs Ireland in their opening match, they went on to completely dismantle Pakistan, which ended with the team winning by a huge margin of 150 runs. Big hitter Chris Gayle finally showed up after hitting a world record 215 against Zimbabwe.

Philanthropist Receives Local Hero of The Year Award

streets and parks of Birmingham in sports and education, he has kept them busy and out of trouble, and for these altruistic endeavours, Zaf has been much

lauded. The community hero was described as "one of British Sport's most inspiring characters” for having “changed thousands of lives with his soft and humble approach.” At the awards evening hosted by Sky Sports Zaf found himself amongst a star-studded line-up which included prominent sports personalities and sporting

International Cricketer’s Association (ICA) who are based in Hitchin, have secured Saeed Ajmal’s third spell with Worcestershire Cricket Club. Saeed Ajmal has been secured by Worcestershire after putting in 6 months of hard work to remodel his action with support from Moghees Sheikh (ICA), Saqlain Mushtaq, Paul Hurrion (Bio-Mechanic) and the PCB. Saeed will be available to play for Pakistan against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in the upcoming tours after being cleared by ICC last month. Saeed will join Worcestershire at the start of July 2015. Saeed is determined to help Worcestershire "achieve their high goals." Last season, Worcestershire did not lose in the Championship when Saeed was in the side. "I've had this difficult spell of my career with my action but I knew I would come through it and have had the support not only of Pakistan but also Worcestershire throughout," Saeed said. To find out more about International Cricketer's Association you can check out their website: www. internationalcricketersassociation.co.uk and follow them on Twitter: @icassociation.

SMACK DOWN! Shab Khan Body Slams Player During Game

Worcester City’s left-back Shabir Khan saw straight red after reacting badly to an ill-timed challenge by • FOOTBALL: Worcester Stockport City's Shab C o u n t y ’ s Khan was C h a r l i e shown a red Russell during card after body a Conference slamming a North clash. player The defender

• FOOTBALL: Shab Khan Body Slamming Charlie Russell

had been brought down by a bad challenge by the midfielder when the 29-yearold proceeded to pick up the youngster and threw him to the floor, in a body slam. Khan, who was recently called to represent the Pakistani national side, was shown a straight red, whilst Russell was shown a yellow. Worcester won the match 2-0.

"I would like to dedicate this award to all of them and my colleagues and family.” legends the likes of Alan Curbishley, Barry Mcguigan, David Seaman, Jermaine Defoe, Kenny Dalglish, Ledley King, Sam Allardyce and Simon Jones. The night also afforded Zaf the opportunity to meet his childhood hero, Kenny Dalglish, who congratulated Zaf on his award, and told the thrilled fan, “You're on a good

run now son, keep it going.” Sky Sports News Presenter Georgie Thompson described Zaf as an “absolutely incredible young man” and went on to say, “people from all over the country need to recognise his work and what a great impact he's made to so many individuals”.

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SPORTS

Football Education Day at Paddington Academy in London

ENGAGING YOUNG PEOPLE IN SPORT

The PE/sport network have targeted engaging girls in sport as one of our key priorities for this academic year

SPORTS

Manisha Tailor Sports Writer

@ManishaTailor1

www.swaggarlicious.com

arlier this month United Learning partnered with my company,

We know that active young people achieve better at school and make significant contributions to their communities, so this investment in sport in central to our core

United Learning is a national group of state academies and independent schools.

BEDSA 2015 Some of the most successful sports personalities graced the red carpet at the first-ever Lycamobile British Ethnic Diversity Sport Awards (BEDSA) to celebrate excellence amongst Britain’s outstanding Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) sports people. Cricketer Moeen Ali won the highly contested Lycamobile Sportsman of the Year category. Gymnast Rebecca Downie, European and Commonwealth Gold Medallist 2014, won the Sporting Equals Sportswoman of the Year Award. Moeen’s father picked up the award on his behalf having been a mentor and inspiration throughout his life and cricketing career. Munir Ali said "It was a real honour to pick up this award on behalf of my son. As a British Asian and a Muslim I know how much this award means to him. But for Moeen it’s always been about the cricket and I'm so glad that his current century has really helped to inspire the English team to raise their game." The prestigious awards, voted on by the public, were attended by a host of other sporting legends and stars including Olympic heptathlon gold medallist Denise Lewis, World and Olympic Champion, Christine Ohuruogu, Rugby World Cup winner, Maggie Alphonsi and Olympic gold medallist Jason Gardner. Arun Kang, the Chief Executive of Sporting Equals said "The awards mark a key milestone in the sporting calendar. The calibre of the award winners voted for by thousands of people highlights the contribution that Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic sports people are making to the world of sport. Group Allirajah, Subaskaran Chairman, Lycamobile commented: “The inaugural BEDSAs have been a great way of celebrating the sporting ethnic British of achievements minorities in the UK. We’re delighted that Lycamobile Sportsman of the Year has gone to Moeen Ali, a well-deserved reward for a great British cricketer making a significant contribution to such a great team sport.” The ceremony was hosted by Nitin Ganatra from BBC’s EastEnders and took place at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry.

Swaggarlicious Ltd, to deliver a Football Education Day at Paddington Academy in London with the view of engaging girls in sport. "United Learning is a national group of state academies and independent schools. The PE/ sport network have targeted engaging girls in sport as one of our key priorities for this academic year, so we are glad to be able to partner with Manisha on this particular programme. Whether as participants, leaders, coaches or officials, we want girls to feel empowered and confident to make sport a part of their lives.

ambition to bring about 'the best in everyone'." (Shaun Dowling, Head of Sport). The day consisted of a practical workshop based on Equality and Diversity where young people discussed how they are affected by discrimination within our society and most importantly, how to best prepare them to deal with such challenges. Additionally, young people took on the role of journalists and learnt about different career pathways available to them in football. Myles Ball, Academic Relationship Manager at UCFB Wembley delivered a talk on the

Students acquired a vast range of knowledge and skills in a fun learning environment and had this to say about the day.

importance of further studies, education and life at UCFB. I would highly recommend this university for those interested in a career in sport – all will be in awe of learning at the heart of Wembley Stadium. Dilan Mistry, who plays for the U19 Tottenham Development squad, spent the day with the students as part of his college commitment to gaining work “I have learnt about how to experience. coach young people, how to keep “Work experience is very them engaged in the game and important in our life and I’d like activity, but also let them have to thank Manisha for giving me fun at the same time.” the opportunity. I have learnt “I know much more about quite a bit throughout the day equality and diversity and how to through equality and diversity and coaching as well. I like the coach younger kids that are 5-11 way that Manisha conducted years old and most importantly the sessions and the way that how to keep them engaged and she had everyone under control. focused”. The day was fantastic and This is something that I can take into a career and job in football.” I think days like this are very (Dilan Mistry, Tottenham U19 important in planting the seed of inspiration and hope. I would like Development). Students acquired a vast range to thank Shaun at United Learning of knowledge and skills in a fun for sponsoring and funding this learning environment and had project at Paddington Academy. this to say about the day. It has allowed me to develop a “Today I learnt about gender football education programme and race and that you shouldn’t that focuses on different career judge someone by their race and opportunities within football gender because if you play a game and it has been really nice to and say that a girl is not that good, see young people from after playing you will take diverse backgrounds, a closer look and realise both male and that she is. Gender and female, so much This investm ent race does not make any more interested in sport in central difference. Getting into in wanting to to our core groups and learning gain a career in about coaching was a ambition to bring football. fun activity!” about 'the best

everyone

WINNERS LIST

The Youth Sport Trust's Young Sports Person of the Year Award: Tin Tin Ho

The FA Coach of The Year: Chris Powell

The Sport England Community Sports Project: One World Sports

The Sporting Equals Sportswoman of the Year: Rebecca Downie

The Jaguar Lifetime Achievement: Denise Lewis

The County Sports Partnership Network's Unsung Hero Award: Maryam Amatullah

The ECB Behind The Scenes Award: Dr Kamran Ahmed

The UK Sport Inspirational Performance of the Year Award: Ali Jawad

The Lycamobile Sportsman of the Year: Moeen Ali

The England Athletics' Special Recognition Award: Fauja Singh

• BEDSA: Ali Jawad

• BEDSA: Dr Kamran Ahmed

• BEDSA: Maryam Amatullah

• BEDSA: Tin Tin Ho

VIEW ALL THE PICTURES ON OUR ONLINE GALLERY AT: WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM

MOEEN ALI NAMED SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR • BEDSA: Fauja Singh

BRITISH ETHNIC DIVERSITY SPORT AWARDS 2015

SPORTS

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UNDERCARD AT NATIONAL LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE SHOWDOWN

@All4YouthCIC

Brothers in Arms B

Ready For Assault on The Palace

oxing brothers Faraz and Hamza Akram are preparing to make it a double celebration in London this month, when they take to the ring at the famous Alexandra Palace. The Reading based siblings will both compete at the Queensbury Boxing League’s first big arena show of the season at the iconic London venue alongside some of the biggest stars of the UK’s premier boxing league, and with family pride at stake both will be eager to grab the headlines in front of the television cameras.

Twenty-year-old Faraz will return to action after his spectacular knockout run of victories was brought to an end last time out at the hands of Londoner Joel Wanderema. Whilst eighteen-year-old Hamza will make his competitive debut in the competition after being a spectator during his brothers rise to fame. Coach David Johnson believes both will make a big impact at the show when they step through the ropes to the roar of their travelling army of fans. Talking ahead of the big night at the Camberley

Boxing club Johnson said, “This will be the first time both brothers have ever appeared on the same show, and its going to be a big night for the club and the Asian community who are really starting to get behind these boys. “Faraz suffered his first loss last time out, but I think that minor setback will be the making of him and he’s determined to make a big statement in London on his return, whilst Hamza will taste the limelight for the first time so its going to be quite an experience for him. Older brother Faraz will

line up against teak tough London slugger Shaun Warren who also returns to action for the first time since suffering his first loss in the competition. Whilst debutant Hamza will meet Aldershot’s Patrick Nash over here rounds. Both Akram brothers will appear on the undercard of the Thunder In London promotion at the Alexandra Palace on Saturday March 14th which is headlined by the National Light Heavyweight title showdown between Londoner’s Duane “Hot Shot” Sinclair and Dwayne “Super” Jones-Grant.

• An (ECB) survey showed that 30% of those taking part in grassroots cricket come from a south Asian background

Breaking through the Barriers

In 2006, during Pakistan’s tour of participated in grassroots sports, the move was seen as a dream come true. England, Pakistani fans taunted Sajid A clear statement that went far beyond Mehmood by calling him a “traitor” the gates of Grace Road, that the and thus the old age debate of loyalty amongst the Asian community was untapped potential of cricket amongst thrust up again. “When the loyalty youngsters from ethnic minority question is thrown at British Asians, another is often jabbed back: 'Can you show us that English cricket is free of racism or discrimination?” When Wasim Khan MBE • CRICKET: ECB Plans to Imrpove cricket opportunities was chosen as Leicestershire County Cricket backgrounds will be acknowledged. Club’s new Chief Executive, The 43-year-old, however, was quick to justify his position on merit alone. hope brewed across the country. From the streets Speaking to The Asian Today, upon his appointment, he said he was of working-class Britain to • LEADING THE WAY: Wasim Khan every individual who has “very proud” of the fact that he is the

How the ECB is Making Cricket Available for All first British-Asian CEO of any major sporting club, however the role could “get over-played a bit too much.” “This is why I always say to the south-Asian community, get yourselves in a position of authority and create change. I want to see south-Asian youngsters come through the ranks at Leicester."

England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have dedicated up to £50 million to improve inner-city cricket in Britain’s most deprived areas

REAPING THE BENEFITS OF SPORT How colleges are providing much needed facilities

• SPORTS: Adam Stokes

• SPORTS: Adam Stokes with college students

dam Stokes is the 'Sports Maker' at South & City College and has been in the post for around a year and a half. Before joining the team at S&CC, he worked on behalf of Sport England who created the Sports Maker post two years ago. The aim of the role was to increase sport participation amongst college students and working closely with national governing bodies of sport in order to improve sporting provisions. Adam works with a large proportion of students within the Muslim community and regularly creates opportunities for them to take part in sports of which they have never had a chance to try or for them to socialise and keep fit. Recently, Adam has set up a cricket programme, coached by former England International cricketer Kabir Ali, where students learnt various disciplines of the game under the guidance of a great role model. Other success stories include students taking part in rowing and canoeing programmes at Edgbaston reservoir and The Ackers Adventure Centre, the formation of a college dodgeball and

rugby team, and a regular table tennis coaching class, which sees up to 25 students playing against each other each week, with a professional coach on hand to offer advice. A further remit of Adam's role is to improve health and wellbeing amongst females within the college - a 6-week netball programme has just begun where a former professional player is providing weekly training in order to create a new team and to help the women who are looking to exercise and maintain their fitness. Adam will soon be taking a group of Muslim female students to The Ackers once a week for 6 weeks for them to try their hand at a number of exciting activities, such as skiing, archery, abseiling and more. Due to the number of financial barriers amongst many of the students at South and City College, Adam works closely with Sport England and Sportivate, where he writes up project ideas like the ones mentioned above, in order to receive funding so that all students have an equal opportunity to take part in sports, which would normally be costly for students.

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