The Asian Today Issue 227 - October 2017

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YOU ENTERTAINMENT FIX

XPRESS Humanitarian aid charity Penny Appeal and Maher Zain have teamed up to organise the musician’s biggest

ever UK tour this October. Actor and comedian Abdullah Afzal was in conversation with him, in the prelude to his latest tour.

Maher Zain

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Siôn Simon Revealed As Khalid Mahmood’s Kidney Donor

It has emerged that the life of prominent Birmingham Labour MP Khalid Mahmood was saved by a secret ‘live’ kidney transplant from one of the party’s European MPs, Siôn Simon.

In a political world infamous for backstabbing, competitiveness and harsh brutality, the incredible act of friendship between Perry Barr MP Khalid Mahmood and West Midlands MEP Siôn Simon was unknown to even close colleagues.

The two, who have been friends for 20 years have now spoken publicly to the Daily Mirror for the first time to encourage others to donate organs.

Mr Mahmood, who is Jeremy Corbyn’s Shadow Europe Minister, and Mr Simon – a West Midlands MEP and Minister in the last Labour Government are supporting the Change the Law for Life campaign run by the newspaper.

MZ: I didn’t even know I could sing until I started in 2009.

The debut tour of Maher Zain’s latest album ‘One’ takes place in October this year, spanning 10 locations in the UK. Tickets are available now from Penny Appeal’s website.

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Mr Mahmood’s life-saving operation took place three years ago but until now the source of the donor had remained a mystery.

The 56-year-old suffered complete renal failure in 2008, which was followed by six years of dialysis and two failed transplant matches.

Treatment left Mr Mahmood so sick that he struggled to climb even a small flight of stairs.

Mr Mahmood, 56, whose twin brother’s kidneys failed before he died of a heart attack, said, “It was a simple act of kindness and I owe him a debt of gratitude.

“I was quite flabbergasted.

“The decision is a huge one, to give one of your body parts to someone close, and for someone to take that decision is quite phenomenal.

“It was a very emotional time.

“I didn’t want to impose so when Siôn offered I was hesitant, shocked, but he insisted.

“I could never have asked.”

THE TEAM EDITORS

Mr Simon, 49, joked, “I’m fine and Khalid has come back to life, which is a mixed blessing, obviously.”

The Labour MEP told how he decided suddenly over lunch in Shere Khan, a Pakistani restaurant in Birmingham’s Star City complex, that he could donate one of his own kidneys.

“I could see Khalid getting more and more sick,” he said.

“He started off being a bit sick but with every month and year that passed he got more ill, and then he started to die.

“It’s miraculous the difference it can make to the recipient and kind of miraculous the difference it doesn’t make to the donor.

“It was just talking to him about it over lunch at Star City.

“He had been increasingly ill and looking as if he was going to die at some point.

“It was then that I realised actually I could help.

“I could do it instead of waiting and expecting he’d receive a kidney from

somebody else when that might never arrive. ”He hesitated and after a few weeks I said I’d ring them if he didn’t, so we sort of did it together.”

The transplant was carried out in Birmingham’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital in January 2014 with Mr Simon’s kidney immediately inserted into Mr Mahmood’s body.

Following Jeremy Corbyn, Theresa May last week agreed to switch to a donor opt-out register in England rather than opt-in, boosting organ donations to potentially save the 500 who die annually waiting for heart, kidney and other transplants.

“When Jeremy made his announcement and the Daily Mirror ramped up its campaign, me and Khalid thought it was the moment to do the same,” said Mr Simon.

“Nobody can accuse us of doing this for political benefit and it was never about politics.

“It was about friendship and helping, saving a life.”

UK Inflation At Highest Rate For Five Years face up to Britain’s cost of living crisis. The squeeze on household budgets is getting tighter by the month.

“The Chancellor must use November’s Budget to ease the pressure on hard-pressed families.

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Driven up by increases in transport and food price, the UK’s key inflation rate hit its highest for more than five years in September.

The Consumer Prices Index (CPI) climbed to 3 per cent, a level it last reached in April 2012, and up from 2.9 per cent in August.

The pick-up in inflation raises the likelihood of the Bank of England announcing an increase in interest rates – currently 0.25% – next month.

The Office for National Statistics said, consumers face rising costs for essentials, with food and transport prices driving rising inflation.

The figures are significant because state pension payments from April 2018 will rise in line with September’s CPI. At the moment, the full new state pension is £159.55 per week, equivalent to £8,296.60 per year.

Wages rose at an annual rate of 2.1 per cent in the

three months to July, meaning workers are seeing the value of their pay packets decrease in real terms.

For those employed in the public sector – where pay rises are capped at 1% – or rely on benefits – which are frozen – that squeeze is even tighter.

Businesses are also facing a squeeze as Retail Price Index inflation, which will be used to set business rates next year, was 3.9 per cent in September.

The fall in the pound since last year’s Brexit vote has been one factor behind the rise in the inflation rate, as the cost of imported goods has risen.

ONS head of inflation Mike Prestwood said, “Food prices and a range of transport costs helped to push up inflation in September. These effects were partly offset by clothing prices that rose less strongly than this time last year.”

Rising inflation increases

pressure on the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee to raise its benchmark interest rate at its next meeting on 2nd November.

Laith Khalaf, a senior analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, said it was “important to keep perspective” on the impact rising prices would have on consumers.

“The pound in your pocket is depreciating, as the rising price of goods continues to chip away at its value.

Consumer spending remains remarkably resilient in the face of inflationary pressures and weak wage growth, but the current squeeze on household budgets is a slow burner, as it takes some time for economic reality to hit home,” he said.

“Employment remains high and borrowing costs are low, for the time being at least.”

TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said, “The government needs to

million public sector workers the pay rise they have earned.

“Prices are sky-rocketing.

Offering hard-working public servants below-inflation increases would amount to yet another real-terms pay cut.”

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Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery Celebrates Curry Trade

Birmingham’s favourite dish is being celebrated at a new exhibition opened recently at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, which explores the histories of the city’s famous curry houses.

Birmingham is widely recognised as the curry capital of the world, attracting visitors from across the planet to experience the array of available Asian cuisine.

‘Knights of the Raj’ is part of Soul City Arts’ project funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, and is running from 23rd Sept 2017 until 7th Jan 2018, aiming to showcase the untold stories of those who pioneered the historic trade, tracing its origins back to the 1940s.

The exhibition includes furnished interiors, images, films and recorded histories.

Augmented reality is being used to enhance the visitor

experience through their mobile phones. One of the stand-out artefacts on display is a booth from the interior of the well-known Birmingham City Centre curry restaurant, Koh-iNoor, giving visitors a truly authentic experience.

Rebecca Bridgman, Curator of Islamic & South Asian Art at Birmingham Museums Trust said, “The curry house institution and the Balti dish in particular,

recorded by the police rose by a record 29% to 80,393 incidents in the 12 months to March 2017, The figures showed a spike in hate crime in England and Wales following the Westminster Bridge terrorist attack on 22nd March as well as in the aftermath of the referendum on the European

Union in June last year, say the Home Office.

Provisional police figures show that the number of crimes, which increased after the Westminster Bridge attack, continued to rise until June as the Manchester Arena, London Bridge and Finsbury Park attacks followed.

Mithali Raj Named In BBC’s 100 Most Influential Women List Of 2017 Mithali Raj, captain of the India women’s cricket team, has been revealed as one of the most influential women in India by the BBC. Mithali was named alongside Delhi’s Ira Trivedi and Tulika Kiran as well as Bengaluru’s Aditi Avasthi and Mehroonisa Siddiqui in BBC’s 100 Women list 2017.

Ira is a writer, yoga teacher and activist, while Aditi is the founder and CEO of a company named Embibe. Tulika has been teaching kids in Tihar prison for the last eight years.

65-year-old Mehroonisa is the mother of Bollywood actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui.

According to the BBC release, the women featuring in their list are “taken from across all spheres of modern life — from engineering to the creative industries, from sport to business — they represent the global wealth of female talent.

“The Indian women named are part of the list of 60 women from around the world who are working or campaigning in these fields or who have inspired others through their actions,” the release added.

“The list has been inspired by the BBC 100 Women Challenge. New for 2017 this is a unique celebration of female talent which sees four teams of women tasked with finding solutions to everyday problems currently blighting female lives across the globe,” the release said.

are profoundly rooted in Birmingham’s history.

As the first wave of these restaurants are vanishing or being demolished, it is vitally important that their story is preserved and talked about, to benefit future generations.. We are thrilled that Soul City Arts have brought this exhibition to BMAG and that the Koh-iNoor restaurant booth will become a permanent part of the city’s history.”

Hate Crimes Surge In England And Wales

Birmingham’s favourite dish is being celebrated at a new exhibition opened recently at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, which explores the histories of the city’s famous curry houses.

The figures, which were published on Tuesday, showed hate crime offences

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Home Secretary Amber Rudd said there was “absolutely no place for hate crime in our society” and said the rise after 2017’s terror attacks were “undoubtedly concerning”.

In June, the number of hate crime incidents recorded by the police reached a record monthly

level of 6,000 incidents.

This peak was higher than the previous monthly peak of 5,500 in July 2016 seen in the aftermath of the EU referendum.

In nearly 80% of recorded hate crime incidents – 62,685 incidents, race was deemed to be a motivating factor.

Sexual orientation was a factor in 9,157 or 11% of incidents, with religious hate crime accounting for 5,940 or 7%.

5,558 were recorded as disability hate crimes.

The Home Office report said: “The increase over the last year is thought to reflect both a genuine rise in hate crime around the time of the EU referendum and following the Westminster Bridge terrorist attack, as well as ongoing improvements in crime reporting by police.”

Analysis of provisional daily data supplied by 38 police forces to the Home Office national data hub between April 2016 and August 2017 showed a spike in daily hate crime after the Greater Manchester attack on 22 May. “The level of offences decreased in the following days, but again increased with the London Bridge and Borough Market attacks on the 3 June 2017. This pattern is again repeated with the Finsbury Park attack on the 19 June 2017,” reports the Home Office bulletin.

“The Tories have made great claims about tackling burning injustices. But they are clearly not tackling the great injustice of being attacked simply because of your religion, your sexuality, the colour of your skin or your disability,” said Diane Abbott, shadow home secretary.

Home secretary Amber Rudd said, “I am heartened that more victims are more confident to come forward and report incidents of hate crime, and that police identification and recording of all crime is improving.

“But no one in Britain should have to suffer violent prejudice, and indications that there was a genuine rise in the number of offences immediately following each of this year’s terror attacks is undoubtedly concerning.”available Asian cuisine.

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UK Charities Launch Rohingya Appeal 6

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Mr Saeed said people were arriving “exhausted and traumatised” at overcrowded camps across Myanmar’s border with Bangladesh.

“Families are living in makeshift shelters or by the side of the road with no clean drinking water, toilets or washing facilities,” he said.

“This humanitarian catastrophe is unfolding in a country that is already reeling from the worst floods in decades.”

The DEC, which represents 13 UK charities, will broadcast its campaign video on major UK television stations.

The Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) has launched a UK charity appeal to help hundreds of thousands of people fleeing violence in Myanmar.

The government has said it would match the first £3m donated by the public.

Over 500,000 Rohingya people, the majority of whom are Muslim, have fled violence in Myanmar, otherwise known as Burma, with the actions of the Myanmar security forces being called by some, including the United Nations, as amounting to ethnic cleansing.

Many of the refugees have crossed the border

into Bangladesh, staying in makeshift camps.

Chief executive of the DEC, Saleh Saeed, said the exodus was a “catastrophe” and left many in need of shelter and medicine.

Priti Patel, International Development Secretary said she was “appalled” by the violence in Myanmar and insisted the government would do “everything it possibly can” to help.

“It is utterly intolerable that the military who are responsible for this inhumane catastrophe have not heeded calls for restraint,” she said.

The violence in the nation’s Rakhine state started on 25th August after insurgents

attacked police posts. The government and military have defended their actions since, claiming they have only acted in response to terrorism, though human rights groups and eyewitness accounts have argued that the response has been wildly disproportionate.

According to the United Nations, more than 410,000 Rohingya have fled to Bangladesh, many arriving with injuries sustained during the crackdown.

Member charities of the DEC are already in Bangladesh delivering emergency aid – but they said they needed more funding to reach people in need.

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Weekly Bin Collections To Resume In Birmingham

After months of strike action and disruption, weekly bin collections in Birmingham are set to return.

Birmingham City Council’s cabinet member for Clean Streets, Recycling and Environment, Councillor Lisa Trickett, confirmed that from Monday October 9, the city’s refuse and recycling collections will be back to ‘normal’ and resume on a weekly basis.

“I am pleased to be able to tell you that from Monday (9 October), we will be in a position to resume weekly collections,” she said in an email to fellow councillors.

“This has been helped

by crews returning to work following the suspension of industrial action, which has enabled us to return to this position much more quickly than expected. I would like to thank the crews for their help in this matter.”

Speaking to residents, the councillor confirmed there would be a little leeway given over what items are placed in household waste and recycling bins – but urged people to ‘return to good recycling habits’.

Councillor Trickett said, “We also recognise that, due to the disruption, some residents may not have placed their recycling in the correct bins, leading to contamination. Therefore, we will be taking a

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Giant Bra Adorns Indian Sculpture To Mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month

pragmatic approach to how the bins are collected for the foreseeable future.

“To help encourage people to maintain or return to their good recycling habits, we will be pushing out videos explaining how to use each bin via our social media channels.”

Labour’s representative for Moseley and Kings Heath thanked the citizens of Birmingham and said, “I am grateful to people across Birmingham for the patience and understanding shown during this extremely challenging period.

“I fully understand the frustration felt by so many and can assure everyone that we want to work with Unite and the unions,

via ACAS, to resolve the outstanding issues.”

The bin strike began at the end of June when Unite union argued that restructuring plans made by the local council threatened the jobs and pay of refuse workers. In response, the council claimed that the reorganization was much needed as the current situation was not sustainable and the new plans would save £5m.

A deal was apparently struck mid-August when the strike was suspended.

However, the council pulled out the deal, according the union, leading workers to return to the picket lines and eventually costing council leader John Clancy his job.

On September 1, the strike resumed as 106 workers were handed their redundancy notice but the action was suspended again on September 20 when Unite won an injunction blocking the proposed redundancies.

A full court hearing is due in November to decide whether the council has acted lawfully in attempting to make its staff redundant.

Ian Ward has now been appointed as leader of the Labour party in the area and leader of the council and is tasked with finding a long-term solution to the binmen dispute, which Jeremy Corbyn has also called for recently, asking for the council to give the people of Birmingham “the clean streets they deserve”.

The Floozie in the Jacuzzi’s official name is ‘The River’ and is part of a set of sculptures in Birmingham’s Victoria Square created by Indian sculptor, Dhruva Mistry, from Kanjari, Gujarat.

Working in conjunction with West Midlands-based charity, Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer, student Zoe Lockett hopes her giant bra will stop passers-by.

“I wanted to create something that was really feminine but also attracted a lot of attention,” said Zoe, from Heath Hayes in Cannock.

“I’ve added lots of flowers to the bra and it even has lights too. Hopefully it’s quite a head-turner!”

Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer was established in 2000 and has helped to raise over £1 million for Birmingham Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s cancer unit.

The charity hosts fundraising activities throughout the year, with

all of the money staying within the West Midlands and helping breast cancer patients within a 70-mile radius of the QE hospital.

Veronica Kumeta, cofounder of Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer, said: “Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer are very grateful to Zoe for all her hard work in designing and making the bra on behalf of our charity as we kick start Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

“We are very passionate about raising awareness of this disease as early detection saves lives and the bra is certainly going to help us raise awareness.

“We bought the first pink mobile mammogram unit in the country, based in Selly Oak, as we are always looking for ways to promote awareness of this terrible disease in our diverse community.”

Zoe’s bra will be seen on the Floozie in the Jacuzzi throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which runs from 1 – 31 October.

Zahid Hussain, who planned to bomb a railway line with a device made from fairy lights and a pressure cooker, has been jailed for life.

The 29 -year-old from Birmingham filled the appliance with 1.6kg of shrapnel and made “improvised igniters” from the festive decorations.

Hussain became radicalised after watching and reading extremist

material in his bedroom.

In May, he was convicted of preparing for an act of terrorism and was sentenced at Winchester Crown Court on Monday.

His trial was told how Hussain wrongly believed his non-viable pressure cooker “bomb” was capable of causing devastation.

In August 2015, in the days running up to his arrest, Hussain had made repeated visits to a section of the West Coast Main Line, which the prosecution said was to research a possible attack.

Books on guerrilla warfare were also discovered following his arrest, including one which talked of mounting attacks on railways.

His computer showed he had an interest in so-called Islamic State, or ISIS, and events in Syria.

Judge Mr Justice Sweeney, who sentenced “dangerous”

Hussain, said that had his device been viable, it would have been capable of causing a “significant explosion”.

Since his arrest in 9 June 2015, Hussain has been held in a psychiatric hospital under the Mental Health Act. He was charged with terrorism offences in June the following year.

Judge Sweeney concluded that on the evidence and reports of several expert psychiatric reports, Hussain had – during the time of the offence – and still did, suffer with paranoid schizophrenia.

Dr Philip Joseph, a consultant psychiatrist instructed by the prosecution, said he believed his psychosis was ‘probably connected to his heavy use of cannabis.’

Upon sentencing, Judge Sweeney said, “You are a dangerous offender and in the view of the level of

the danger that you pose, and the impossibility of predicting when it will come to an end, this is an appropriate case in which to impose a sentence of life imprisonment.”

“If detonated in a crowded area it would have been potentially fatal to those within metres of it and would have potentially caused serious injury among those up to 10 metres away,” Sweeney said.

In your case, culpability is extremely high as more than one explosion was clearly intended, and the harm to be caused was ultimately loss of life or serious injury to the person.

“You were clearly deeply radicalised and, over a period of at least nine months, were strongly committed to what you were doing.”

Hussain will serve a minimum of 15 years.

A fashion student at Birmingham City University (UK) has designed a huge bra for Birmingham’s ‘Floozie in the Jacuzzi’ to wear this month, as part of a campaign raising awareness of breast cancer.

Fairy lights bomb plotter jailed for life

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The Joy of Diwali OCTOBER 2017

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As the festival of lights nears, three women from different generations find out how they recreate celebrations in the UK.

T

hough known as the festival of lights, Diwali is all about family bonding, welcoming in the New Year with your loved ones and feasting on homemade traditional delights. Being the most important festival in the Hindu calendar, families in the UK go all out and celebrate the day with as much chutzpah and reverence as they would in India for example.

When Uma came to London in 1974 as a teenager she missed the excitement of Diwali, “It was my first Diwali here in the UK and I had to go to school, which in India is unheard of because it’s a holiday and we spend it with the family!”

But as time went by and after getting married, she

ensured that she celebrated every Diwali in a grand manner with her in-laws, “Diwali is a special occasion and my family of 35 and I ensure every year we all come together to cook, eat, dance, celebrate and make the most of Diwali.”

Initially, she was worried about whether her children would also follow the Diwali traditions as she did as a child, but not anymore, “the youngest in our family is 10 years old and the oldest is 84, it’s amazing to see the same enthusiasm for Diwali across the generations.

Last year she hosted her entire family of 35 at home, “It was brilliant,” she exclaimed. “I started the day with a Puja, then all the sister-in-laws came together to paint rangoli while the children burst crackers, then

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we all sat down for one big feast. It was a celebration of the true spirit of Diwali!”

Reminiscing about her time in India, Manavi said, “The entire city used to light up and I remember my mother making farsans and mithai’s at home from scratch. When I came here ten years ago, it was the family bonding, the spirit of the community and my mother’s food that was missing. It felt like no one celebrated Diwali here!

With her brother and sister-in-law recently moving to London, Maharshi now ensures that she follows her mother’s traditions whether it comes to making mathris or besan ka laddoos, so she can make them feel at home.

While some try to recreate the festive feel here in the UK, for others, Diwali is a whole new experience.

When Manisha came here five years ago, she was surprised to see her motherin-law cooking everything from scratch during Diwali, “In India we used to buy sweets and snacks from the nearest shop. But over here my mother-in-law cooks everything at home. Under her guidance I started cooking as well and for the first time I made besan barfi.

It was such a memorable experience, and when the family praises your cooking it’s just another feeling altogether.

“Last year we had a big Diwali dinner at home, and guess what was on the menu? My favourite Besan Barfi and everyone loved it! When people praise your cooking, it makes you feel proud of yourself.

“Being Punjabi, we also had chole bathure on the menu. This year, we have relatives coming over again.

Although we have spanned many generations and many different stories, these families share one thing in common; the desire to celebrate Diwali the way they did in their home born countries. This is achieved with home cooked traditional food, family bonding, and lots of fireworks.

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Fairy Lights Bomb Plotter Jailed For Life

Walsall Shop Closed After Mouse Droppings ‘Found Throughout Store’ Environmental health officers have closed Bangla Stores, on Milton Street, Palfrey, after they found mouse droppings inside.

Walsall Council received an anonymous tip off about the store.

Droppings were found “throughout the store” at the start of this week when workers carried out an inspection.

A court order at Dudley Magistrates Court was later granted, confirming the closure.

Magistrates issued a full Emergency Hygiene Prohibition Order requiring the premises remain closed until Environmental Health Officers are satisfied the health risk has been removed.

A council spokeswoman said, “Walsall Council can confirm that following an anonymous complaint, environmental health officers visited Bangla Stores, Milton Street, Palfrey, on Monday, October 9 where they conducted a thorough inspection of the premises and discovered mouse droppings throughout the store.

“The owners were served an Emergency Hygiene

Prohibition Notice and the premises were immediately closed.

“On Wednesday, October 11, Walsall Council officers attended Dudley Magistrates Court where this evidence was presented and the decision to close the premises was confirmed.

“The Magistrates issued a full Emergency Hygiene Prohibition Order requiring the premises remain closed until environmental health officers are satisfied the health risk has been removed.”

David Elrington, regulatory services manager at Walsall Council, said, “Mice carry

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a range of bacteria that if passed to humans through their urine or droppings can cause serious illness.

“The duty of Environmental Health staff is to protect public health and wherever circumstances are found that do not meet the required standards robust action will be taken to prevent the spread of disease.”

It is not the first time mouse droppings have been found at the shop.

In 2015 it was shut down in similar circumstances in June that year due to what the council described as a ‘serious infestation’.

Zahid Hussain, who planned to bomb a railway line with a device made from fairy lights and a pressure cooker, has been jailed for life.

The 29 -year-old from Birmingham filled the appliance with 1.6kg of shrapnel and made “improvised igniters” from the festive decorations.

Hussain became radicalised after watching and reading extremist material in his bedroom.

In May, he was convicted of preparing for an act of terrorism and was sentenced at Winchester Crown Court on Monday.

His trial was told how Hussain wrongly believed his non-viable pressure cooker “bomb” was capable of causing devastation.

In August 2015, in the days running up to his arrest, Hussain had made repeated visits to a section of the West Coast Main Line, which the prosecution said was to research a possible attack.

Books on guerrilla warfare were also discovered following his arrest, including one which talked of mounting attacks on railways.

His computer showed he had an interest in so-called Islamic State, or ISIS, and events in Syria.

Judge Mr Justice Sweeney, who sentenced “dangerous”

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Hussain, said that had his device been viable, it would have been capable of causing a “significant explosion”.

Since his arrest in 9 June 2015, Hussain has been held in a psychiatric hospital under the Mental Health Act. He was charged with terrorism offences in June the following year.

Judge Sweeney concluded that on the evidence and reports of several expert psychiatric reports, Hussain had – during the time of the offence – and still did, suffer with paranoid schizophrenia.

Dr Philip Joseph, a consultant psychiatrist instructed by the prosecution, said he believed his psychosis was ‘probably connected to his heavy use of cannabis.’

Upon sentencing, Judge Sweeney said, “You are a dangerous offender and in

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the view of the level of the danger that you pose, and the impossibility of predicting when it will come to an end, this is an appropriate case in which to impose a sentence of life imprisonment.”

“If detonated in a crowded area it would have been potentially fatal to those within metres of it and would have potentially caused serious injury among those up to 10 metres away,” Sweeney said.

“In your case, culpability is extremely high as more than one explosion was clearly intended, and the harm to be caused was ultimately loss of life or serious injury to the person.

“You were clearly deeply radicalised and, over a period of at least nine months, were strongly committed to what you were doing.” He will serve a minumum of 15 years.

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BCABA Network Annual Dinner JAS SANSI ce The Thinking Man's Mouthpie & Awards 2017 Winners Photographer and LoveBrum trustee,Jas Sansi brings a dose of all things Birmingham.

With an unprecedented love of the city and its unique diverseness, he brings his 6-foot passion to The Asian Today.

A POOR LEGACY

The BCABA Network Annual Dinner and Awards 2017 left a lasting impression on guests, as they left the Wolverhampton Racecourse, feeling inspired and entertained. Held on September 29th, the event was hosted by ITV Central’s Sameena Ali-Khan; who radiated poise and charisma throughout. The evening kicked off with a powerful performance by Dr. Subaig Kandola, and continued on to be led by BCABA Network’s Mak Ghattura CBE. Mak graced the audience with a presidential welcome, and drew upon the importance of collaboration with stakeholders, for the business community.

Eighteen months before we leave the richest trade bloc on earth,the brave new world of post brexit trading opportunities remains a hopeless fantasy.

Latest brexit murmurs suggest we are heading for an exit from the EU without a trade deal. As a self employed freelance photographer,I'm already concerned about the growing number of late payments from clients.

Freelancers exist at the harsh coalface of the economy. Political parties argue about zero hours; thats normal life for freelancers. Loss of employment rights out of the EU? welcome to our world; no sick pay,no paid holidays and no maternity or paternity leave.

A post brexit landscape without the protection of EU workers rights may provide a taste of freelance life to many more people. Its not fun.

We don't know if the UK economy will take a hit because the Government is reluctant to share the impact reports. If so,there will be less money for the NHS. If the right wing of the Conservatives are given free reign,I suspect they will move towards a private insurance approach to health care. That certainly wasn't on the red bus.

The Conservative ideal is a nation of self employed freelancers and contractors. Growing their businesses in an increasingly flexible gig economy.

Enjoying a low tax threshold and using the tax savings on private health care,private school fees and private health club membershi p; tick,tick and tick.

I enjoyed a University education with no fees. I took advantage of post graduate study funded by the EU. I graduated on a Thursday and before I became a freelancer,started work on the following Monday.

I got married and bought a house that was three times the value of our earnings.

It bothers me,my generation has left a legacy so much more challenging for young people. Those who bought about brexit and introduced so much uncertainty are the most guilty. And like the Prime Minister said in Manchester 'for that,I am truly sorry.'

JAS SANSI TWITTER: @jassansi FACEBOOK: fb.com/jassansi

A brief overview of BCABA’s roots and future plans was delivered by Rakesh Saini, who also shared a poignant message for the millennials of the business world, and highlighted the endless benefits of excelling in chosen industries.

Also on the night, Angela Bir of the Ramada Park Hall Hotel was awarded

with BCABA’s title of ‘Business of the Year’ and ‘Businesswoman of the Year’.

Celebrations stretched even further as our chosen charity, The Midland Air Ambulance Charity, raised over £3000 in total.

The event came to a remarkable end as international artist, Jaggi Jagowal kept the festivities up, until midnight.

Retailer of The Year

Community Excellence Award

Amerjit Singh, Nationwide Electrical & Security Wholesalers

Joint Winners - Randhir Singh, Midland Langar Seva Society

Learning Business of the Year

Chan Nandhray

Manjinder Sangha, Kapture8

Sahdaish Pall,Narinder Kooner ,Mandeep Sangu

Business Woman of the Year

SWAN – Sikh Women’s Action Network

Angela Bir, Ramada Park Hall

Josie Kelly, Access 2 Business

Business Person of the Year

Regeneration Award

Gurdev Singh Bahra, Specialist Metallic Coatings Ltd

Wolverhampton City Council

Environmental Award for Business Gurdev Singh Bahra, Specialist Metallic Coatings Ltd Business Start Up of the Year Kavita Bachada, Khalsa Wills Business Professional of The Year John Mehtam, Martin Kaye Solicitors International Trade David Main – Shankar (UK) LLP Business of the Year Angela Bir Ramada Park Hall

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Crafts of the Punjab

Explore the V&A’s South Asian Collection For thousands of years, the Punjab region of the Indian subcontinent has been a cultural crossroad, resulting in a rich and vibrant legacy of arts and crafts.

Seen in the most everyday objects, the delicate and detailed artistry of local craftspeople has been woven into fabrics, carved into furniture and etched into precious ornaments for centuries.

Using the exceptional collections of the Victoria and Albert Museum, Crafts of the Punjab has been created especially for the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, and presents the extensive range of arts and crafts made across the area in the 19th century.

Discover the skilful art of

Buddhist, Hindu and Jain sculpture, Amritsar’s delicately carved ivories, Hoshiarpur’s elaborate musical instruments and Sialkot’s embellished steel artefacts. One of the most extraordinary pieces on show will be the Golden Throne made by Muslim craftsmen in Lahore for Ranjit Singh, the first Sikh Maharaja of the Punjab.

Journey across the ‘land of five rivers’, and uncover the crosscultural influences that shaped this remarkable region, now divided between India and Pakistan.

Featuring never before exhibited objects, famous artefacts and unique masterpieces of craft, this is a rare opportunity to view these stunning works outside of London.

Sialkot, c.1884 © Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Exhibition organised by the V&A, London, in collaboration with the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum.

EXPLORE THE V&A’S SOUTH ASIAN

COLLECTION

Discover objects from the V&A’s stunning South Asian collection – Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Golden Throne, beautiful textiles, jewellery, and much more.

Free Admission 20 October 2017 – 21 January 2018 Jordan Well, Coventry, CV1 5QP 024 7623 7521 theherbert.org

Exhibition organised by the V&A, London, in collaboration with the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum.

THE ASIAN TODAY

employment.4 “People with autism spectrum disorder can face enormous challenges in everyday life,” says Professor Chris Oliver, director of the Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders at the University of Birmingham. Professor Oliver, who will give the first in the series of talks on mental health says: “Mental

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BIRMINGHAM HOSTS INSPIRATIONAL AUTISM EVENTS Autistic people, their friends and families, are invited to take part in a series of free, expert discussions on autism in central Birmingham on 25th and 26th October, and 15th and 16th November. The talks are being hosted by leading UK autism research charity, Autistica, in partnership with Deutsche Bank.

Called ‘Delving into the Mind: A series of talks on autism and neurodiversity’, presentations from some of the UK’s leading autism researchers, ambassadors and businesses will include topics such as employment and mental health. The talks aim to discuss the challenges and benefits that autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions can bring.

One in a hundred people in Birmingham are autistic1,2* – with eight out of ten having experienced mental health problems,3 and eight out of ten not in full-time

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health has been identified as the number one area of concern by autistic people and their families – yet research and services in this area have been sadly lacking.”

Jon Spiers, Chief Executive of Autistica, comments: “We hope that the talks will be inspiring and therefore generate a wide range of discussion

regarding the issues facing autistic people and their families.”

Schedule of talks: 25 October - Understandwing mental health in autism, 26th October - Faces of neurodiversity panel discussion, 15th November - Closing the gap on autism and employment, 16th November - What the future holds for autism research.

A look into Teenagers Suicidal Thoughts And Self-Harm “To get to my school I had to cross a railway bridge and I would just stand there and think ‘I could just jump off’”, says Calleigh, now 18, who was self-harming when she was 11 and first thought about taking her own life when she was 13.

“It felt overwhelming and like I was alone. I just felt so, so low, I couldn’t see a way out.”

Calleigh’s story comes as young people’s charity, Childline, says it has carried out its highest number of counselling sessions with young people having suicidal thoughts and feelings, and needs more volunteers.

A total of 22,456 sessions were given to children in the UK thinking about taking their own life in 2016/17 – up

from 19,481 the year before.

In Calleigh’s case, extensive pressure from a high-achieving school coupled with her own perfectionist nature, meant she sank to a very low point.

But Childline literally proved to be a lifeline.

“I was able to talk to someone,” she said.

“I’d call them when I wanted to self-harm. I would message them – they’ve got amazing message boards.”

“There are so many other people that are feeling the same way.”

The brave young woman advised others and said it’s important to seek help – and to remember that there doesn’t always have to be a reason for feeling at breaking point.

Malala Yousufzai Attends First Lecture At Oxford

World famous Pakistani education campaigner Malala Yousufzai today attended her first lecture at Oxford University.

The 20-year-old tweeted a picture from her first class at Oxford University – five years after she was shot in the head by militants in Pakistan.

The Nobel Peace Prize winner accepted a university place in August at Lady Margaret Hall college to study philosophy, politics and economics.

She was shot on the way home from school in 2012 after writing an anonymous

diary about life under Taliban rule.

The gunmen were militants operating in Pashtun tribal areas in north-west Pakistan — a region where women are expected to keep their opinions to themselves and stay at home.

“The wise saying, ‘The pen is mightier than sword’ was true. The extremists are afraid of books and pens,” Ms Yousafzai said at the time.

“Five years ago, I was shot in an attempt to stop me from speaking out for girls’ education. Today, I attend my first lectures at Oxford,” read Malala’s tweet today.

Her picture was shared 10,000 times within minutes as people around the world wished her good luck.

Among them was her brother, Khushal Yousafzai, who tweeted in reply, ‘Sorry for being a headache for the last 5 years. So grateful you are still with us. Ik (I know) you miss me but i am coming to oxford in 2years.”

To which Malala replied: ‘Okay, after two years, I am going to change my university then’.

“All the best. You are such a wonderful inspiration to every girl,” wrote one Twitter user.

Another tweeted, “Congratulations Malala. You stand as a beacon of hope to women and all of us in this world. Enjoy university!”.

After recovering from her near-fatal injuries, Malala and her family relocated to Birmingham.

She is unable to return to her homeland because of Taliban threats to kill her and her family members.

She became an internationally known symbol and advocate for the fight to improve girls’ literacy around the world, and in 2017 was made the youngest ever UN Messenger of Peace.

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE YOU ENTERTAINMENT FIX

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Humanitarian aid charity Penny Appeal and Maher Zain have teamed up to organise the musician’s biggest ever UK tour this October. Actor and comedian Abdullah Afzal was in conversation with him, in the prelude to his latest tour.

Maher Zain

Salman Khan to romance Katrina Kaif - PG 24

Interview On performing in front of the

No songs for 'ITTEFAQ' - PG 24

Swedish Royal Family

MZ: I didn’t even know I could sing until I started in 2009.

Hollywood scandel! Angelina Jolie and Gwynwth Paltrow sexually assaulted - PG 24

Amitabh Bachchan celebrates his 75th birthday

The debut tour of Maher Zain’s latest album ‘One’ takes place in October this year, spanning 10 locations in the UK. Tickets are available now from Penny Appeal’s website.

BIG B TURNS 75 - PG 24

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SALMAN KHAN TO ROMANCE KATRINA KAIF

S

alman Khan will be romancing the sizzling hot Katrina Kaif in the upcoming movie 'Tiger Zinda Hai'. Salman Khan will also star with Katrina Kaif in the movie simply called 'Khan' which is directed by the same director, Ali Abbas Zaffar.

However, it was only after Salman

Khan had asked for Ali Abbas Zaffar to direct the movie that he agreed to star in it. The movie will be produced

by Salman's brother-in-law Atul Agnihotri. It has been rumoured that the movie will be out by the end of the year.

Atul Agnihotri has been wanting to make a film with Sakman Khan for a while now, but Salman was not happy

with the scripts until he received the script for 'Khan'.

Before Salman Khan can start filming for 'Khan' he still has two other films to do first, Remo D'Souza's 'Race 3' and Ali Abbas Zafar's current project 'Tiger Zinda Hai'. Salman is still very much in demand and has proven to be a much respected actor in recent years.

BIG B TURNS 75 H

HOLLYWOOD SCANDAL EXPOSED:

ANGELINA JOLIE & GWYNWTH PALTROW SEXUALLY HARASSED

Amitabh Bachchan celebrated his 75th birthday on 11th October.

Son of a respected indian poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan, Big B was birn in Utaar Pradesh's Allahbad.

His career began in 1969 when he got his debut role in the film 'Saat Hidustani'. Bachchan's acting career has spanned 45 years in the film industry. He married Jaya Bhaduri in

1973 who he starred along in 'Sholay'.

He has played some iconic roles over the years and many of his dialougues have become so iconic that they are so often said by his fans.

Amitabh Bachhan who is very active on twitter wrote this while he was on holiday with his family in the maldives: "T 2574 – The affection of greeting for the 75th, displayed over several mediums, overwhelms me .. a thank you shall never be enough.”

In honour in of Amitabh Bachchan turning 75 we have compliled a list of iconic roles he has played: 1. Dr. Bhaskar

Bannarjee in Anand (1971)

2. Vikram in Namak Haraam (1973) 3. Jai in Sholay (1975)

4. Anthony Gonsalves in Amar Akbar Anthony (1977) 5. Vijay in Don (1978) 6. Ravi in Satte Pe Satta (1982)

arvey Weinsten who was a well respected hollywood producer has beem accused of sexually harrassing a number of women for many years.

Both Paltrow and Jolie described how Weinstein, who was instrumental in launching Paltrow's career, made unwanted advances toward them in hotel rooms. In the same article printed in the New York Times,

atleast five other women went on record to state they had been sexually assaulted or harassed by Weinsten.

Harvey Weinstein's wife, fashion designer, Georgina Chapman has described his behaviour as "unforgivable" and had chosen to leave him.

Weinstein has vehemently denied all claims and has said that all sexual relations were consensual.

7. Vijay Deenanath Chauhan in Agneepath (1990) 8. Tiger/Shekar in Hum (1991) 9. Narayan Shankar in Mohabbatein (1991) 10. Debraj Sahani in (2005)

Black

Harvey Weinstein and his fashion designer wife Georgina Chapman CREDIT: DANNY MOLOSHOK/REUTERS

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NO.1 FOR ASIAN ENTERTAINMENT

GUZZY BEAR

being funny with a purpose PG.

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Banging the Drum for Local Culture

L

audiences across the UK. As a network, we offer broadcast channels such as Rishtey that offers a wide variety of entertainment for the entire f a m i l y, a n d News18 India, the world’s window to India. It gives me great pleasure to announce the launch of our new local production, Desi Beat on our flagship channel, COLORS. Extensive research was carried out to deduce our viewers’ areas of interests. Desi Beat has been conceptualised and developed to suit preferences of Desi television audiences in the UK. The promos of the show have already gained remarkable traction on social media, crossing the 5000 views mark in just two days. We hope that our audiences will embrace this fresh and innovative format with open arms.”

DESI BEAT IS PRODUCED BY CUTTING CHAI PRODUCTIONS

PG. 39

SUPER SINGH WORLD'S NEWEST SUPERHERO

Martin Delaney Talks Movies, Hollywood and being a CaucASIAN

DESI BEATS! eading South Asian entertainment channel, COLORS TV have launched a new and unique locally produced show.

Named ‘Desi Beat’, the show started late last month with a view to showcase the best of local Asian culture.

Desi Beat will showcase UK’s most exotic and preferred trends in food and lifestyle.

Celebrity host Raj Ghai will embark upon a fascinating journey of the finest destinations known for their cuisine, apparel and accessories and impeccable travel experiences across the United Kingdom in his truly ‘Desi’ and unmatched style. From the most authentic 'lehenga' to the spiciest 'Indian Curry', every Sunday, Raj will unravel a new mystery that a new destination presents – its wide array of local & international Desi trends – in his inimitable style. In Raj’s own words, “If it’s made it to my list, it’s a MUST visit!”

On the launch of the show, Govind Shahi, Business Head, IndiaCast Media, Europe, says “COLORS TV has been a frontrunner in differentiated content, admired by South Asian

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SAJAL ALI MAKES HER SINGING DEBUT

Film Awards A

ward season kicks off soon! the first awards to get started is the 2017 Holywood Film Awards. The 21st annual awards show will take place on the 7th November at the amazing Beverley Hilton Hotel in L.A. James Cordon will return for the third year in a row to host the

T

he mesmerising Pakistani actress Sajal Ali has released her debut single and fans are wondering when she will be rekeasing her album.

Thr talentented actresss has been

NO SONGS FOR 'ITTEFAQ' making headlines with two of her recent serials, 'Rangresa' and 'Yaqeen Ka Safar". Her singing talent has come as a surprise as it was not know she could sing. The actor sang a rendition of her latest show Rangreza.

Bobby Deol to play second lead in Salman Khan’s

Race 3!

B

obby Deol has finally got a break to star in a big movie like Race 3. It is hoped that he will be able to rekindle his acting career in bollywood.

Producer Ramesh Taurani said: “I have worked with Bobby earlier and both Soldier and Naqaab were a great experience. He is

spectacular event.

This year the event will support the Motion Picture & Television Fund which specialises in the entertainment community's health and human service needs.

Announced by Dick Clark Productions that this years nominees will include Mary J. Blige.

Blige, the Grammyaward winning singer, songwriter, actress and philanthropist, will receive the Hollywood Breakout Performance Actress Award for her most recent work in Mudbound.

The film deals with the struggles of returning to life after war, working hard labor in rural America, and dealing the racial injustice that plagued the nation in the '50s.

an absolute delight to work with, very professional and a really nice guy. He will be styled differently in the film and you will see him in a never seen- before avatar.”

“In Race, all characters are grey.

You will have to watch the film to figure out what exactly each one is playing.”

latest offering from Karan Johar will have no songs.

However there will be a promotional song which is a reprise of the classic song 'Raat Baaki'. The movie will star Sidharth Malhotra, Sonakshi Sinha and Akshaye Khanna. Ittefaq is a riveting thriller that revolves around two murders, two suspects and two versions of the crime.

Ittefaq is co-produced by Karan Johar's Dharma Productions and Shah Rukh Khan's Red Chillies Entertainment. It is to be released on November 3rd.

Riz Ahmed Becomes First Asian Man To Win Acting Emmy

British Pakistani actor Riz Ahmed has made history by becoming the first Asian male to win an acting award at the Primetime Emmy Awards.

Ahmed took home the Outstanding Lead Actor award for his role as Nasir Khan, a young Pakistani man embroiled in a murder investigation, in HBO’s ‘The Night of’ on Sunday evening.

“This is a tremendous honour just to be recognised alongside so many inspiring actors who I’ve watched for so long,” he said as he accepted his award.

“I want to say it is always strange reaping the rewards of a story based on real world suffering.”

“But if this show has shown a light on some of the prejudice in our societies, xenophobia, some of the injustice in our justice system, then maybe that is something,” he added.

When asked if his win would

lead to a more diverse industry, he said, “I don’t know if any one person’s win of an award, or one person snagging one role, or one person doing very well changes something that’s a systemic issue.”

“I think that’s something that happens slowly over time.”

He added, “In terms of US and the UK, I’m really proud to be a Londoner. I’m really proud to be from the UK. “I’m also really aware that actors of colour often have more opportunity in the US, but I think ultimately now we see that TV in

particular is a global medium.”

On whether he observed any changed in the kinds of roles being written for Asians in Hollywood, he responded, “I think what we’re starting to see is more awareness around how beneficial it can be to tell a diverse range of stories and to tell them in a way that’s authentic.”

The other Asian to take home an Emmy was Archie Panjabi who in 2010 won the ‘Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series’ award or her role Kalinda Sharma in ‘The Good Wife’.

THE BY: ASIAN TODAY HUSNA

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MereChashma Kala Rashke Qamar KalaBaar Chashma Baar Baadshaho Dekho Baar Baar Dekho

Hawayein Tere Sang Yaare Tere Sang Rustom Jab Harry MetYaare Sejal Rustom

Socha Hai Gani Gani Mani Sandhu & Akhil Baadshaho Mani Sandhu & Akhil

Sweety Jag Ghoomeya Tera Drama Jag Ghoomeya Sultan Bareilly Ki Barfi Sultan

Nazm Tu Rendhe Nazm Tu Rendhe Tindy Bareilly & Rixx Ki Barfi and Sudesh Kumari Tindy & Rixx and Sudesh Kumari

Disco Disco Woman Woman A Gentleman Shide Boss ft Zack Knight Shide Boss ft Zack Knight

LagdiPe Peat Hai Booty Thaai Peat PeJatt Booty A Simran Flying A Flying Jatt

Bandook Meri Laila Suit Suit Guru A Gentelman Randhawa Guru Randhawa

Hans Tu HaiMat Pagli Tu Hai Daro Mohenjo Toilet Mohenjo Daro

Piya More Dishoom Dishoom Sau Baadshaho Tarah Ke Sau Tarah Ke

BHANGRA/POP BHANGRA BHANGRA

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Bom Diggy Gabbroo Gabbroo Jassie Zack Knight Gill ft.&Preet Jasmin Hundal Wallia Jassie Gill ft. Preet Hundal

Yaaria Akhil Akhil TeriDips DJ Kami Teri Kami

Hostel Prince, Tru-Skool Ashok Ashok Prince, Time 4 Ya Sharry Man Mind Tru-Skool Time 4 Ya Mind

High &Rated PBN Raj Bains Gabru PBNAkh & Raj Bains Billi Guru Randhawa Billi Akh

Gangland Manni Sandhu ManniAulakh Sandhu Welcome Makirt To The & Future Deep Kahlon Welcome To The Future

Qismat Tere Bina Tere Bina Monty Ammy & Virk Waris, Ginni Kapoor Monty & Waris, Ginni Kapoor

Feelin Skoda Skoda Ranjit The PropheC Bawa ft. Bhinda Aujla Ranjit Bawa ft. Bhinda Aujla

Bollywood Ikk Vaari Hor Medley Soch -Lae Pt 5 Ikk Vaari Hor Soch Lae Harish Zack Knight Verma Harish Verma

LV Di Jean Billa Kulwinder Kulwinder Billa Kulwinder Jasmine Sandlas Billa Kulwinder Billa

General Selfi e Boliyan SelfiKnight eSingh Boliyan Malkit Zack ft. Dj Vix Malkit Singh ft. Dj Vix

UK UKARTISTS CHART UK ARTISTS

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LookDance One What You Made Me Do One DrakeDance Taylor feat SwiftWizkid and Kyla Drake feat Wizkid and Kyla

New Rules Cold Water Dua ColdLipa Water Major Lazer and Justin Beiber Major Lazer and Justin Beiber

WhatGood Too About Us Too Good Drake Pink feat Rihanna Drake feat Rihanna

Friends This is what you came for This is what you came for Calvin Justin Bieber Harris & feat Bloodpop Rihanna Calvin Harris feat Rihanna

Mi Gente Heathens Heathens JTwenty Balvin One & Willy Pilots William Twenty One Pilots

Reggaeton Lento Closer Closer Chainsmokers CNCO & Little Mix feat Halsey Chainsmokers feat Halsey

Ready For Perfect Strangers It Perfect Strangers Jonas Taylor Blue Swift feat JP Cooper Jonas Blue feat JP Cooper

More Than Friends Tears Tears Clean Bandit James Hype feat Louisa Johnson Clean Bandit feat Louisa Johnson

SorryGirl This Not Sorry This Lovato Girl Kungs Demi Vs Cooking on 3 Burners Kungs Vs Cooking on 3 Burners

SunDon't We Comes Talk Up Anymore We Don't Talk Anymore Charlie Rudimental Puthft. feat James Selena Arthur Gomez Charlie Puth feat Selena Gomez

26 DESI XPRESS OCTOBER 2017

www.desixpress.co.uk

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Desixpress movie massala Desixpress mUSIC massala Desixpress movie massala Desixpress

********************************************************************** ** ******************************************************************** SHOWBIZ

SHOWBIZ SHOWBIZ SHOWBIZ SHOWBIZ SHOWBIZ SHOWBIZ SHOWBIZ

MZaAHER in I n Con v er s at io n w it h

by comedian Abdullah Afzal

Maher Zain has teamed up with humanitarian charity Penny Appeal to undertake his biggest ever UK tour this October. British actor and comedian Abdullah Afzal took the chance to ask him a few questions as he stopped by the UK in the run-up to the events.

Read the full interview on our website: www.theasiantoday.com

AA: How are you finding the UK? MZ: Great! Always happy to be here.

On the responsibility of fame AA: A lot of young Muslims see

Read the full interview on our website: www. theasiantoday.com

you as their inspira tion. Is it a lot of weight on your shoulders?

MZ: It’s definitely a responsibility and I’m aware of it.

The main thing is to be yourself; people appreciate when you are yourself, off stage and on stage.

On the charity cause AA: The tour is in aid of Penny Appeal’s Education First programme, to help girls in developing countries to go to school. Why is this close to your heart?

MZ: When I was young I took my years at school for granted.

Now I miss those days, when I was free to learn without other responsibilities. It was fun, even though there were hard times. It’s very important to emphasise that.

We want to inspire the youngsters to really take advantage of those years and not take them for granted.

On being stranded on a desert island AA: If you were stuck on a desert island and you could take one person with you, eat only one meal and listen to only one song, what would those three things be?

MZ: One person would be my wife, has to be. The meal would be chicken curry and I’d probably create a new song.

On becoming a singer AA: Did you always want to be a singer when you were younger?

MZ: No, absolutely not. I didn’t even know I could sing until I started in 2009. I used to work as a music producer, and I would only sing the songs as a demo. A lot of artists have been singing since they were a child, but I still don’t find it natural for me to sing. I’m still learning and I’m taking lessons, because I think I can do more.

On finding your talent AA: What advice would you give someone looking to follow in your footsteps?

MZ: I think with anything that you would like to do, you need to be honest with yourself first of all. Am I good at this thing that I’m looking to do? Don’t waste time on something that you won’t be successful at.

Everyone has something that they’re really good at. It can be anything! Maybe you’re really good at talking – maybe you can do a talk show or be on the radio. Identify that talent and that goal in you, and be honest with yourself.

On performing in front of the Swedish Royal Family AA: You recently performed at the Swedish National Day celebrations. What was that like for you?

MZ: It was amazing, I really enjoyed it. We had the band of the Swedish Army, a huge orchestra, and we sang a song called ‘Hey Brothers, Hey Sisters’. The King, the Royal Family were all in front of me, all the politicians and

leaders and my family was there as well – it was amazing.

On the universal nature of music AA: What influences you when you’re writing a song?

MZ: Music is a language. As human beings we have feelings, different moods, different timings. Sometimes you feel sad, sometimes you feel like you want to be uplifted, sometimes we’re just happy and we don’t want anything to bring us down.

When you write music it’s also about that inspiration. When you write a melody and lyrics, you keep asking yourself, what mood am I in now? Music speaks to you. I love music, and the sound of music. I love Turkish music for example, and it’s such an emotional experience for me, even if I don’t understand the lyrics.

IN CONVERSATION WITH MAHER ZAIN #2 Humanitarian aid charity Penny Appeal and Maher Zain have teamed up to organise the musician’s biggest ever UK tour this October. Actor and comedian Abdullah Afzal was in conversation with him, in the prelude to his latest tour.

AA: How are you finding the UK? MZ: Great! Always happy to be here.

On performing in the UK AA: What’s been your favourite performance in the UK? MZ: I’m not just saying this because I’m in the UK and my upcoming tour is in the UK, but the tours that I’ve had here have probably been the best out of all the ones I’ve done. It was so much fun. It’s hard to pick one, because I’ve always enjoyed performing for the UK public. I’m really looking forward to the next tour.

On leisure time AA: Everyone knows that Maher Zain loves to sing, but what do you do in your own time?

MZ: I travel a lot, so I like to spend time with my family as much as I can. I like fishing and sports – I work out a lot and try to maintain my health as much as possible.

On sports AA: Are you a football fan?

MZ: Not really, I wish! I try, my friends like to sit down and watch it, but I just don’t get it.

AA: What kind of sports are you into then?

MZ: You won’t believe it but I love MMA (Mixed Martial Arts), I’m a big fan. I practice it a little bit, I think it’s a fun workout.

The debut tour of Maher Zain’s latest album ‘One’ takes place in October this year, spanning 10 locations in the UK. Tickets are available now from Penny Appeal’s website.

OCTOBER 2017

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NEWS

THE ASIAN TODAY

HEALTH

First Cyster Chat Fined £100 if you go to the dentist Group meeting a success

It was truely an eye opener

It’s bad enough going to the dentist and experiencing the dentist’s chair, with all the whizzing & drilling sounds – but now you could also get fined £100

Sitting down with several women who are in varying stages of dealing with different Reproductive health issues and hearing firsthand their struggles, questions and triumphs.

Meeting with these lovely women impressed in me and I learnt several things about the importance of patient support groups: First, these women have a forum to talk about their struggles with people who understand what they are going through. A few of the women expressed that they had felt crazy before joining the group because people around them are not sympathetic to the everyday difficulties of gynae problems the bleeding, pain, anaemia, and more.

Second, these women can help educate one another about

treatment and coping options. Because the women are at different stages, they can share insight and perspectives about the variety of treatments they’ve tried.

Last but not least, these women of different ages and walks of life, who were once strangers, have now become friends. The beauty in the meeting for me was, the fact they went to dinner and have stayed in contact since the meeting. They’ve truly become Cysters for life.

They have something in common with each other.

Because they understand each other and what it is like to suffer, they are willing to help and support one another.

So yes, embrace these groups. You’re not on your own.

Helping to develop patient support groups is a

natural extension of Cysters education and outreach efforts. It helps break down barriers and promote a positive conversation between different women from various backgrounds.

If you would like to start a Cysters Chat Community support group – then contact us! Or come along and join us in Birmingham.

We hope that being in a group like this will make you feel less alone in daily struggles with gynae and reproductive health and also help get you on the road to freedom!

Love your Cyster, Neelam xx Website: www.cysters.co.uk Twitter: @cystersbham Facebook: Cysters – Womens Support and Awareness Group

Written by: Neelam Heera @cystersbham

27

Cysters Birmingham

On average 40,000 people a year in England are getting fines of £100 – This is because of an automated system that dentists say is affecting the most vulnerable.

The system which has been created to stop fraudsters from getting free treatment but it is affecting dementia sufferers.

The NHS admits that there is a problem and is promising to fix it.

Dentists are saying that people with dementia, or those with learining difficulties are unfairly being penalised for something as simple as accidentally ticking the wring box because they are confused with the paperwork.

The fines are applied automatically after a random screening process that identifies potential fraudulent claims for free dental treatment, however it does do any further investigatory work to establish if this is a mistake.

When these have been challenged, about 90% have been overturned.

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OCTOBER 2017

WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM

NEWS

Birmingham Fraudster Caught After 10-Year-Old Girl’s Baby Fathered By Trying To Make £100k In Scams Second Uncle

Mohammed Taj, who tried to make £100,000 in fraudulent insurance claims, has been jailed after he was caught exaggerating car crash injuries by turning up to a medical appointment in a wheelchair he didn’t need.

The 56-year-old from Alum Rock, was found guilty of fraud by false representation and conspiracy to commit fraud after falsely claiming he had been left permanently disabled in a bus crash in Pakistan.

Taj was jailed for three years at Birmingham Crown Court this week.

His wife Shanaz Zaman was handed a 12-month suspended sentence, along with a 20-hour rehabilitation order, for conspiracy to commit fraud.

Detectives from the City of London Police’s Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED) discovered that in a bid to claim an £80,000 payout for

injuries he suffered in the crash in 2011, Taj had grossly exaggerated an injury claim.

He had been on a bus that was involved in a serious crash in Pakistan in October 2011.

The crash, with a lorry, killed several people and caused Taj a number of injuries that required hospital treatment in Pakistan and back in the UK. He took out a Disabling Injuries Protection Plan in September 1998 with the American Insurance Group (AIG), making a claim against the plan in February 2012.

He had previously submitted several accident claims and AIG launched an investigation.

AIG arranged for Taj to attend an independent medical examination in February 2013 as part of the investigation and hired a private investigation company to carry out surveillance on Taj when he attended this appointment.

The case was referred to IFED in March 2014 and during a search of his home police discovered documents that showed Taj had made a further insurance claim for permanent total disability with a second insurance company totalling £22,500.

The second company was supplied with a copy of the surveillance following Taj’s arrest and confirmed that, had it been made aware of

the footage prior to settling Taj’s claim, it would have rejected it.

In December 2014, Taj answered bail and was interviewed for a second time. It was during this interview that Taj was arrested for a second offence of fraud by false representation regarding his second insurance claim.

City of London Police Detective Sergeant Mohammed Darr, who led the investigation for IFED, said, “Taj was determined to take advantage of the insurance industry by making two false claims.

“However, due to the hard work of our officers and the co-operation of the insurance companies, his cunning attempts to deceive medical professionals were ultimately unsuccessful. His actions have resulted in his conviction and sentencing here today which sends out a clear message that insurance fraud will not be tolerated.”

David Halstead, Fraud Manager at AIG added, “Whilst we are pleased to have prevented Taj from defrauding AIG, this is another sad example of someone’s greed getting the better of them. Had Taj been honest and truthful, it’s likely he would have received some compensation “Instead, he chose to lie to us and the medical experts who were trying to help him.

Police say a 10-year-old Indian rape victim, who gave birth to a baby girl in August, had been made pregnant by one of her uncles.

Police are filing charges against the suspect – who is the second uncle of the girl’s to be accused of raping her.

The first uncle has been held since last month and will remain in custody as he is charged with raping the girl.

Police began a search for a second suspect after forensic tests revealed that the first uncle’s DNA did not match that of the baby’s.

Neelambari Vijay, Chandigarh senior superintendent of police, said that that police were now rushing to also file charges against the second uncle – who is the younger brother of the first uncle.

“It’s true the Baby’s DNA sample has matched that of the [second] uncle,” she said.

The case of the 10-yearold girl has made headlines across the world.

Her pregnancy was discovered in mid-July when she complained of a stomach ache and her parents took her to hospital.

A local court in Chandigarh rejected the abortion plea on the grounds that she was too far into her pregnancy after a doctors’ panel advised that termination of the pregnancy would be “too risky”.

The Supreme Court also refused to allow an abortion for her on similar grounds.

Indian law does not allow terminations after 20 weeks unless doctors certify that the mother’s life is in danger.

The girl, who was not aware of her pregnancy and was told the bulge in her stomach was a stone, gave birth in August and the baby was given away to child welfare authorities for adoption. The girl’s parents are reported to have refused to have anything to do with the infant.

Initially, the girl told police and child welfare activists that she had been raped several times in the past seven months by the first uncle to be placed under arrest, who is in his 40s.

By video link, the girl testified to court and very clearly named the uncle and revealed facts about her abuse.

The girl’s father said that the first uncle had not denied the charges against him. Police also said he had admitted to the allegations.

But after DNA tests revealed he was not the father of the baby, the search for a second suspect began, with the arrest of the second uncle being made in September.

The country’s courts have received several petitions in recent months, many from child rape survivors, seeking permission to abort.

In most of these cases, the young girls are completely unaware as to their condition and as such their pregnancies are discovered late, beyond the 20-week limit.

Earlier this month, a 13-year-old girl was given court permission to terminate her pregnancy at 32 weeks. The boy she was carrying was born alive in Mumbai but died two days later.

Cases like these have brought attention to the scale of abuse in India. Unicef and Indian government figures reveal that in 2015, more than 100,000 were raped.

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OCTOBER 2017

NEWS

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In association with

The

Winners

1. Restaurant of the Year

The third Birmingham Awards a rousing success!

What a brilliant, fun and prestigious night!

Last evening saw the third Birmingham Awards take place at the Edgbaston Stadium.

With over 450 people in attendance we brought together the very best individuals and organisations our glorious city has to offer for a night of honour, recognition and celebrating being proud and being brum. #BProud #BBrum The Birmingham Awards was once again headline sponsored by Birmingham City University, alongside category sponsors Pathway Group, Riverdale Insurance & South & City College Birmingham.

Host Raaj Shamji, known for his flamboyance and infectious humour, and his eclectic band kept the guests entertained with their unique brand of wit, wonder and flair. They brought a sense of cabaret, zest and fun to the

night that kept everything up and lively.

Live music was provided by the Walsall Wallaz and Beat Asylum, guests were also treated to a stunning performance from CircusMash.

Drinks were in full flow courtesy of our drinks sponsor NA Consulting and food was provided by Simply Mahirs. The delectable cuisine was perfectly fitting for a night celebrating the very best Birmingham has to offer.

Needless to say, when it came to the winners, the level of excitement and tension was palpable.

Some of the most coveted awards and winners of the night included Brummie of the year which went to James Wong and Lifetime Achievement Award which was awarded to Tom Ross.

The crowd moved to the after party after the awards was over, which saw yet more

fun, laughs and partying.

The Birmingham Awards are grateful to all our judges for there hard work and commitment: Safaraz Ali, Tim Andrews, Judith Armstrong, Debbie Assinder, Paul Cadman, Tony Elvin and Ed James.

Finally a big thanks to all our sponsors and supporters including Headz Up Business, Tag Network Midlands,Vibrant Networks, Hollywood Monster, Hotel Du Vin, Visit Birmingham, Dluxe Magazine, Jas Sansi & Social Frames.

Next year’s Birmingham awards is already being planned and looks set to be even bigger, better and brighter – #BProud #BBrum We look forward to seeing you all next year on 24th November 2018 at Edgbaston Stadium!

Follow our hastag for next year #BRUMAWARDS18.

CARTERS OF MOSELEY 2. Bar/Pub of the Year THE PRINCE OF WALES MOSELEY 3. National Retailer of the Year SELFRIDGES 4. Independent Retailer of the Year J J RUDELL & CO 5. Art & Culture Award CIRCUSMASH 6. Business of the Year FRACINO 7. Small Business of the Year LIGHTBOX DIGITAL 8. Businessman of the Year SIMON WARD – INSPIRED THINKING GROUP 9. Businesswoman of the Year REBECCA SIMKISS – SIMKISS GUY 10. Community Initiative/ Charity BIRMINGHAM MIND 11. Excellence in Media Award BIRMINGHAM UPDATES

12. Sporting Initiative BIRMINGHAM CITY LADIES FC 13. Young Achiever BEN FRANCIS – GYMSHARK 14. Venue of the Year THE ICC 15. Social Enterprise MISS MACAROON 16. Blogger of the Year MEAT & ONE VEG 17. Contribution to Education ASTON UNIVERSITY 18. Best Apprenticeship Employer Award SEVERN TRENT 19. Professional of the Year DEE KUNDI – VWV 20. Best use of Social Media or Marketing Campaign SOUP TO NUTS 21. Judges Award CONNECT DISTRIBUTION 22. Brummie of the Year JAMES WONG 23. Lifetime Achievement TOM ROSS

GET NOMINATING FOR NEXT YEAR www.birminghamawards.co.uk FOR SPONSORSHIP ENQUIRIES CALL: T: 0121 667 3945

OCTOBER 2017

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FASHION & BEAUTY

31

FASHION & BEAUTY Less than 45% of women go through life with a full head of hair and most men experience some form of hair loss in their lifetimes.

Factors such as hormone levels and oxidative stress

play a major part in hair loss and weak, damaged, thin and broken hair. With hair growth products flooding the market, there is a much simpler, cheaper answer – vitamins.

Hair stylist to the stars, Asgar Saboo is here to share his top six list of vitamins and minerals for hair growth.

With a repertoire of celebrity clients including Eva Longoria, Cindy Crawford,

Aishwarya Rai-Bachchan and Katrina Kaif, the specialist certainly knows the tricks of the trade. Find all of Asgar Saboo's top tips for hair growth below.

Vitamin E

Vitamin C

Vitamin D

Vitamin B

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that repairs and builds tissue, which is essential for healthy hair growth. Foods rich in Vitamin E include almonds, seeds, avocado and broccoli.

Vitamin E can also be applied topically to the scalp to reduce inflammation, increase blood circulation, boost oxygen supply and repair damaged hair follicles. Massaging the vitamin oil into the hair and scalp at least twice a week can drastically improve hair growth.

Vitamin C is another antioxidant that works by fighting oxidative stress and free radicals that contribute to hair graying, hair loss and damaged body tissue (such as weak and brittle hair strands).

The vitamin can also help to strengthen the hair as it promotes collagen production in the body – a vital protein for healthy hair, skin and nails. Foods rich in Vitamin C include oranges, red bell peppers, kale, brussel sprouts, broccoli, strawberries, grapefruit, papayas and kiwi.

Vitamin D is a hormone that promotes healthy follicle growth and levels can be boosted simply from spending some time outdoors in the sunshine. During the winter months when this is not as easy to accomplish, supplements and Vitamin D rich foods are the answer.

Examples of such foods are fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, halibut, mackerel, eel, whitefish and swordfish, eggs, mushrooms and milk.

All eight B vitamins (or the vitamin B complex) promote cell growth and division which is vital for healthy hair growth. Vitamin B12 is the most important of the vitamin B complex, with food sources including meats, eggs, nuts, grains and vegetables. There are also a variety of vitamin supplements and hair care products that contain the mineral that can combat the issue externally.

Essential minerals for hair growth

Biotin Rapidly becoming one of the most widely used supplements for hair growth, Biotin helps to produce glucose and break down proteins into amino acids. Since hair itself contains keratin – a form of protein – this in turn promotes healthier hair. Many hair care products now contain the vitamin, although it is important to maintain both an internal and external supply. Foods rich in Biotin include mushrooms, avocados, eggs, salmon, nuts, beef, chicken and potatoes.

Vitamin A Vitamin A is vital in promoting optimal cell growth. It helps to produce sebum (oil on the scalp) which keeps hair naturally moisturised and prevents drying out and breakage of the strands.

Foods rich in Vitamin A include peaches, carrots, spinach and melons.

You should be able to get all the vitamin A you need by eating a varied and balanced diet. If you take a supplement that contains vitamin A, don't take too much because this could be harmful.

THE NATIONAL ASIAN WEDDING SHOW 11TH-12TH NOVEMBER 2017 | OLYMPIA LONDON

With the Indian wedding industry valued at over £12 billion, Europe’s largest and highly anticipated National Asian Wedding Show and India Fashion Week are set to return to the UK on 11th and 12th November 2017, this time debuting at Olympia London.

The event spotlights the marriage between the fashion and wedding industry, providing the perfect concoction for bridegrooms

to gain a unique opportunity to browse some of the finest wedding couture and invaluable planning tools all under one roof.

The shows boast the accolade of being the largest indoor Asian consumer event in Europe, with 340 exhibition stands covering over 8,000 square metres.

This year’s edition will look to replicate and build on the unprecedented success of last year’s event, which

was attended by over 19,500 visitors for the two-day show.

For decades, India has established itself amongst the most desirable destinations in the world for soon-to-be brides and grooms, seeking elegant wedding garments and fashion inspiration. Without the need to head East, visitors will have the unique opportunity to seize the latest offerings straight from India at the show, courtesy

of the Femina India Wedding Show, which is exclusively curated by The Times Group and Femina Magazine.

Prepare to be inspired by some seriously exquisite designs and innovative styling ideas that will take the idea of dream weddings to new heights. For those eyeing up this season’s latest bridal trends, this is the perfect opportunity to get front-row ready with London India Fashion Week, bought

to you by Illamasqua. This will be complemented by a state of the art auditorium with tiered seating, to showcase a vast array of the most exciting designers at the pinnacle of the industry from both India and the UK. The National Asian Wedding Show is an indispensable platform for bridegrooms. There will be an interactive catalogue of some of the most seasoned wedding experts from across

the UK on show, giving consumers exclusive insight and access to the industry’s most sought-after wedding suppliers. From finding the perfect venue, to sourcing that dream outfit, topclass photographer, luxury wedding car, caterer, stylist, mehndi artist, DJ and plenty more, the shows will form the ultimate wedding experience of the year.

32

OCTOBER 2017

THE ASIAN TODAY 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. www.msdeliciouspr.blogspot.com Birmingham is a city worth celebrating, to state the obvious our city has gone street food crazy which only means one thing for your appetite it’s about to go through the roof! Street food inspired restaurants are emerging in all quarters, but can you blame them? It’s a riveting concept and even better when the food is mouth-watering!

If you’re on the hunt for authentic street food experience packed complete with all the flavour and excitements of the market delights, you’re in for a treat. Her’s are top 5 Deliicous choices.

FOOD & TRAVEL

WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM

FOOD & T

Diwali 2017

How To Make The Most of The Celebrations

W

ith Diwali just a few days away – the festival of lights, we will not be holding back on those cravings for indulging sweets, savory snacks and lavish meals. Houses will be lit with beautiful diyas, candles and decorated with lights and Rangoli.

Before you start your celebrations, have a look at this essential guide that may help you make most of the festivities, fun and of course lots of food.

Read below for tips on how to have a festive diwali this year with your family and friends.

Anita Champaneri. Foodie and MD of Delicious PR tells us more Top 5 Street Foods Here and Coming to Birmingham Tamatanga Hearty, home styled Indian food! Tamatanga is nestled among some of Nottingham’s best restaurants. Brummies look no further this chic eatery has brought their flavours of success into our turf with the promise of “a new way to eat Indian”. Try their tapas style sharing dishes, you can choose from ambrosial dishes such as Chaat, Samosas, Jerk Tikka, Prawn Tempura as well as regular curry dishes made from traditional recipes.

Don't go Over the Top in Buying Sweets As we are in for festive cheer buying heaps of sweets will not only leave you with tonnes of leftovers that will go stale in no time, So be wise and go easy on buying kilos and kilos of mithai.

Buy sweets first thing in the morning Many of the Asian sweet shops will be filled with Diwali sweets and snacks to save the time spent hours stuck in the festive rush, buy your sweets first thing in the morning.

National

Cuwreeryk

Zindiya The perfect love affair spot for Indian street food lovers! Zindiya is a new eatery and bar in town serving Indian realness with a culture twist. Stuck for what to eat for lunch? Well this little bundle of joy fits perfectly into that mould. Before the food arrives you will find yourself already feeling enticed by the bright walls covered in authentic artwork bringing a piece of India to Birmingham.

Whether you’re after a light bite at lunch as well as a more substantial dinner in the evening, Zindiya will have you wishing all restaurants serve Chaat.

Indico This little gem offers a true celebration of Indian street food and cultural heritage, tucked in Shirley and Solihull the food at Indico has been carefully selected to showcase the best and tastiest dishes from the Indian street food culture . Make sure to try the buttery paranthas of the Punjab and Goa’s famous Goan fish curry rice and Raos omelette which is an omelette dipped in spicy coconut gravy garnished with lime and onions.

Gateway To India You’ll never see such fab mixed grills than here. It’s a real feats for the eyes. They have the best selection of vegetarian dishes like Chana bature, papri chaat and pau bhaji Mowgli Booming already in Liverpool and Manchester, Mowgli will be opening its doors late September stationed at Grand Central. The venue layout is intimate surrounded by a Jungle Book theme, when you arrive you will know this place is unique. The menu is fresh and innovative, be sure to try the Indian styled ‘chip butties’, flavour filled yoghurt Chaat bombs and delicious fish dishes as well as an extensive wine list to choose from. If you have specific dietary requirements do not feel left out they also serve gluten free and vegan meals!

Get your tummy ready and just about everybody you know because things are about to get exciting!

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

Have a Tray Ready For Guests as they come Its Diwali and you will have relatives, friends, colleagues who will drop by to extend their Diwali greetings. Be ready to offer them with savouries and sweets each time a guest drops by.

It’s National Curry Week so we’ve looking into some of the best takeaway curries for this weekend!

Here are some classic world curries whether you’re mad for a madras, or raving for a rogan josh, or craving a chinese there are plenty of options for you to indulge in a curry or two in celebration #minifistpump Panang Curry Typically made with beef, the intense, spicy sauce is seasoned with sliced lime leaves, and made a little milder and creamier with coconut. There are also usually peanuts in both the curry paste, so be warned if you’re stuck with that particular allergy.

Get some plain rice on the

side and this is a perfect Thai takeaway for those that prefer thicker curries.

Korma The classic “beginner’s” curry, with almond. It’s creamy, sweet and tasty an Irish favourite.

Dhansak This dish is actually of Persian origin, and contains lentils.

Katsu curry It’s different right from the get go, with the chicken bread crumbed and fried, cut up and laid next to sticky steamed rice and then a gorgeous, sweet and silky curry sauce slathered all over it. Yum. Enjoy your Curry week!

Know your Guests Taste and Preferences As a good host you must try and know your guest taste and preferences. For those who are diabetic you can make or buy sugar free desserts or serve them snacks.

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FOOD & TRAVEL

TRAVEL Uber To Appeal London Ban

Uber has officially appealed the decision by Transport for London (TfL) last month not to renew its licence in the city, meaning that it will continue to operate indefinitely.

The ride hailing giant said on Friday that it had filed the appeal at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.

“While we have today filed our appeal so that Londoners can continue using our app, we hope to continue having constructive discussions with Transport for London,” the San Francisco-based company said in a statement.

“As our new CEO has said, we are determined to make things right.”

No indication was made the company of how long the appeal process is expected to take. A first hearing is likely to take place on 11th December though reportedly the process could take several months and “perhaps longer”.

A spokesperson for TfL said, “We note that Uber has submitted an appeal.

No further comment will be made pending the appeal hearing.”

TfL say the decision, announced on 22nd September, to stop Uber from operating in its current form was largely based on concerns around user safety.

At the time, the transport authority said that it determined Uber not to be “fit and proper to hold a private hire operator licence”.

It said that it considered the company’s approach and conduct to “demonstrate a lack of corporate responsibility in relation to a number of issues which have potential public safety and security implications”.

3.5 million people are estimated to use Uber in London and around 40,000 people are licenced to drive for it in the city, making the capital a crucial market for the company. An online petition to save Uber in London has garnered more than 850,000 virtual signatures.

Immediately after TfL’s announcement last month, Uber’s global chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi admitted that the company, which was founded in 2009, had “got things wrong” and apologised in an open letter.

Khosrowshahi, the former head of Expedia who replaced Uber’s divisive founder Travis Kalanick over the summer, subsequently met Transport for London representatives to discuss the latter’s concerns and Uber has reportedly hired top

QC Thomas de la Mare.

“Earlier this week, our new CEO had a constructive meeting with TfL and we hope to continue discussions in the coming weeks,” said the company in an email to its London customers.

“While these talks happen and our legal appeal is processed, we’ll still be operating in London. So you can still get a reliable ride, whenever you need it.”

Mr Khosrowshahi seems to be trying to address issues with the company in general. Recently, Uber has battling a slew of legal cases and challenges in several US states and has been forced to quit countries including Denmark and Hungary.

Former CEO Travis Kalanick stepped down earlier this year after a string of allegations were made against him.

OCTOBER 2017

Escape to winter sun with our Holiday Picks

33

With winter just around the corner, why not escape the cold with picks of holidays in the sun. There are not that many places left in the hemisphere we occupy that are truly warm, and so

you may find yourself sailing away to the south for some sunny days. Since the sun is that bit further you will probably have to budget a lot extra for your air travel, and then there is the fact

that you want to travel in December which is can be a pricey time for flights.

Below we have picked some of the warmest destinations to look out for.

Enjoy!

Marrakesh, Morocco The north African country of Morocco has many surprises for visitors throughout the year and the crown jewel of them all is Marrakesh. You can stay in some of the most luxurious riads during your holidays and frequent the Djemaa al-Fna main market square that has UNESCO acclaimed performances.

Venture outside the city to the rolling Sahara dunes of the desert and ride on a camel’s back for days, sleeping in the desert at night until you reach the coast of Essaouira where you can take to the beach and sunbathe.

Cancun, Mexico Mexico’s premier coastal destination Cancun will provide you with the holiday party vibes any day of the year. You can soak up the culture and is a well know tourist destination.

Fuerteventura, Canary Island The Canary Island will never let you doubt about the price or the distance and will always deliver on the weather. This is the perfect place for a getaway in the sun, Fuerteventura is the second largest island of the Canaries and the temperature only drops below 20 C in January.

Larnaca, Cyprus Cyprus is easy to get to and easy to enjoy, the holiday destination that will keep your spirit warm throughout the winter months. Also known as Aphrodite’s Isle, Cyprus will have you falling in love in seconds, and the weather won’t be the only reason. Each day you can bask in the sun for about 7 hours lie on the long sandy beaches or trundle around the streets of the charming villages. Head to Larnaca if you don’t want the stress of travelling once you land, there are plenty of resorts and sandy beaches to keep you happy there

Dubai The second you arrive in Dubai you will feel the heat and be amazed. The warm

sunny weather never takes a hit in Dubai and it will have you hydrating at the infamous Dubai brunches,

which you seriously cannot miss out on. Remember not to be soaking up the sun but check out the markets.

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OCTOBER 2017

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BUSINESS

THE ASIAN TODAY

@cas_majid

HOW DO YOU TRULY FEEL ABOUT APPLE? W ith the recent update to Apple’s iOS, now on version 11, the question that’s on everyone lips is, have Apple lost consumer confidence. (My colleague Ammar wrote about this recently with some interesting research. You can read his article on our Wow Zone blog.)

Excited at the prospect of exploring all the new features, I swiftly began the task of downloading the new iOS. Immediately after the new install

was complete, I was hit some new calendar appointment requests… yes wait for it, from as far back as 2012! After getting over the initial nostalgia of meetings long gone, my emotions turned to a gradual annoyance due to the slowness of the operating system when trying to navigate the address book. Which, I’m sure you will agree is one the most fundamental functions of what essentially is a phone, albeit on steroids!

If you’re like me, by 11am,

debate too, I’ve been in the industry for almost 20 years now, but this is not about progression of technology, that’s a given and it’s constant. This is about Apple losing confidence with their customers, because they are forcing the issue of updating to new devices, whilst charging silly money, on flaky technology.

Basically, they are messing with consumer elasticity when it comes to loyalty of the brand and its products. Now, an iPhone X costs more than a MacBook Air. How much is too much, before we say enough is enough, only time will tell, but I think we are reaching breaking point fast. Consumer sentiments and perceptions are extremely powerful, they make you or break you, the moment the energy becomes ‘away-from’

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confidence, that’s up to you to decide. Like a Jedi search your inner most feelings about how the brand makes you feel then make your own conclusion.

What I am certain about, is, like Apple did many years ago with the iPhone, the market is now ready again for disruption, someone will come along and change the industry and the cycle will start all over again.

@Wow_Zone

rather than ‘towards’ a brand it’s a downward spiral and very difficult to change.

Personally, like many, I’m all in with Apple, however, I now feel as though I’m being forced to stick with the brand and be dictated to, whilst effectively pulling my pants down at the same time for the privilege. That leaves a bitter taste in the mouth!

So, are Apple losing consumer

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BUSINESS

after all the email replies, phone calls, social media responses have been answered, and general surfing, reading articles and news has been consumed my iPhone 6s’ battery life has been decimated to 11%. Therefore, it needs a good charge to get me through the second part of the day.

Thinking about it, before possessing an iPhone, I’ve not owned some many chargers for one phone located in so some many different places. One in the bedroom, one in the living room, one in the car, one at work, I also have a portal power pack just in case; the irony is it usually needs charging too. Back in the day, my nokia phone had one charger, and I charged it once which lasted at least 2 days, those were the days!

So, you’d think at the top of the ‘features to improve list’ from the ever so clever bods at Apple would be to improve battery life on the new iOS. Well you’d be wrong to assume that too. My battery life now has reduced even further. Ok, before all you hecklers say I need to update my phone, to iPhone 8 or the iPhone X, then my rebut to you is simple, my contract is not up for renewal until Feb and more importantly Apple themselves say that iOS 11 is for devices which are iPhone 6 onwards.

I also get the whole advancement of technology

Qasim Majid is a technology entrepreneur and the CEO and founder of Wow Zone – a digital marketing agency. He has been in the digital industry for 20 years.

TECH TALK WITH QASIM MAJID

OCTOBER 2017

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Sanjay Patel DipPFS Partner

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Registered in England and Wales as a Limited Liability Partnership No OC356611. Advice charges may apply.

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OCTOBER 2017

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THE ASIAN TODAY

PROPERTY

PROPERTY

Homes Not Assets To Be Passed Signs Of New North-South Divide On To Children, Says Minister Emerging In UK Housing Market

In new footage recorded from the party’s conference, a Conservative minister has said homes should not be seen as assets for parents to pass to their children.

Jackie Doyle-Price, social care minister, told a fringe meeting that many older people were “sitting in homes that really are too big for their needs” and said the party was still looking to make reforms to the funding of social care.

“The reality is that the taxpayer shouldn’t necessarily be propping up people to keep their property and hand it on to

their children when they’re generating massive care needs,” she told the Social Market Foundation fringe in footage released by the Labour party.

“We’ve got to a stage where people feel that they are the custodian of an asset to give to their offspring … They shouldn’t be seen as that.”

“We are very much looking at, when the review comes up, we will be looking at the whole issue of caps and floors,” she added, later in the same meeting.

Doyle-Price said the younger generation should not be expected to fund care

DISCOUNT

for pensioners when there were already huge pressures on their finances.

“Those of us who are fortunate to have gone through university without paying anything, fortunate enough to have then bought our own homes, have been able to build up a level of wealth,” said the MP for Thurrock.

“But actually, current people coming through the universities, who are going to be funding, looking after us after we have retired, have not had those advantages, and fundamentally it’s unfair to expect them to pay their own taxes to deal with that.”

Labour leader, Jeremy Corbyn, said it was “appalling” the Conservatives still expected people with dementia to sell their homes to pay for care.

“The idea of a ‘dementia tax’ was rightly rejected by the public during the general election,” Corbyn said.

“It can’t be right that if you have a heart condition you’re treated on the NHS but if you have dementia you have to pay with your home.

Rightmove say a new north-south property divide is emerging in the UK ahead of the Christmas period, with people selling secondstepper homes in the north of England standing the best chance of finding a buyer by Christmas.

The property website said in its latest house price report that those selling more expensive “top of the ladder” properties in London and the south of England have the least chance.

In the four weeks to 7th October, asking prices for homes coming to the market in England and Wales rose 1.1% to £313,435, following a 1.2% drop the previous month.

Prices rose in eight out of 10 regions, the exceptions being Yorkshire and Humber and east Midlands.

However, cash-strapped consumers become more cautious about major spending commitments in recent times leading to more sellers chasing fewer buyers, according to Rightmove.

The number of properties arriving on to the market in England and Wales was up 3.1% last month compared with the same period in 2016, but the number of sales agreed was down 5.9%.

Properties in the south of the country proved more difficult to sell, with sales agreed down 7.9% compared with 3% in the north.

“It will be harder for this autumn’s sellers to secure a sale because buyers have

more choice. New sellers’ pricing optimism may therefore be unfounded in some parts of the country,” said Miles Shipside, Rightmove’s director and housing market analyst.

“With buyers becoming more Scrooge-like with their cash, sellers who have undercut the average 1.1% rise in asking prices may stand a better chance of finding a buyer before Christmas, especially if they are in one of the more active parts of the market.”

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Aston Martin Reveal DB11 Volante

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A

ston Martin’s DB11 has received a new addition, the drop-top Volante version, powered exclusively by the AMG-sourced 4.0-litre turbocharged V8 engine.

The new car is its sportiest open-top model yet, according to Aston. To ensure handling is as keen as possible, it has chosen to launch the DB11 Volante with the lighter V8 engine rather than a V12.

Reportedly the V12 version is not currently in the product plan, but it would be a likely addition later in the car’s life.

The V8 unit in the 2+2 DB11 Volante matches the 503bhp at 6000rpm and 513lb ft at 2000-5000rpm produced by the DB11 V8 coupé.

The engine is connected to an eight-speed automatic gearbox and drives the rear wheels.

The DB11 Volante weighs 110kg more than the V8 coupé on which it is based, coming in at 1870kg. The

British manufacturer says the DB11 Volante is some 26kg lighter and 5% stiffer than its V12-powered DB9 Volante predecessor. The weight distribution is claimed to be 47% front and 53% rear.

Performance is strong, too; 0-62mph takes 4.1secs, 0-100mph is done in 8.8secs and the top speed is 187mph, making the car pretty much a match for the coupé.

The roof and its mechanism are a new design for Aston.

The folding soft-top, which has been tested in the Arctic Circle and Death Valley to prove its ability to keep out the cold and heat, consists of eight layers and can be lowered in 14sec and raised again in 16sec. It can be operated at speeds of up to 31mph and buyers can choose from a colour selection of red, black silver and grey silver.

The Aston Martin DB11 Volante is on sale now, priced from £159,900 — an increase of £15,000 over a V8-powered DB11 coupé. Initial deliveries are expected to take place in the first quarter of next year.

37

Pakistan Football Team Suspended By FIFA 38

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OCTOBER 2017

FIFA have banned the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) with immediate effect due to “undue third-party interference”.

The world governing body said on Wednesday that the PFF’s national and club teams are not entitled to take part in international competitions until the suspension is lifted.

The election of Faisal Saleh Hayat as president of the federation in 2015 and subsequent allegations of vote-rigging effectively led to a stoppage in the running of the sport in Pakistan.

A high court-appointed administrator took over running of the PFF in a bid to fix the issue – but that move came in violation of FIFA statutes regarding political interference.

“FIFA has decided to suspend the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) with immediate effect in accordance with the decision of the Bureau of the FIFA Council dated 10 October 2017 on account of undue third-party interference,” FIFA said in a statement.

“The Bureau took this decision as a result of the fact that the PFF offices and its accounts remain in control of a court-appointed administrator, which constitutes a violation of the PFF obligations to manage its affairs independently and without influence from any third parties in accordance with the FIFA Statutes.

“The suspension will be lifted once the PFF offices and access to the PFF accounts are returned to the PFF. “Following its suspension, the PFF has lost all its membership rights as defined in art. 13 of the FIFA Statutes. The PFF’s national and affiliated club teams are no longer entitled to take part in international competitions until the

suspension is lifted.

“This also means that neither the PFF nor any of its members or officials may benefit from any development programmes, courses or training from FIFA or the Asian Football Confederation. Moreover, and in accordance with art. 16 par.

3 of the FIFA Statutes, other member associations may not entertain sporting contact with the PFF during its suspension.”

As well as the ban stopping Pakistan from playing, the suspension means none of the PFF’s members or officials can benefit from development grants or training courses from FIFA or the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).

The men’s national team has not played a game since 2015, resulting in an all-time low world ranking of 200. There is no professional league in the country.

SPORTS

oshua To Face New Opponent As Pulev Withdraws With Injury

Anthony Joshua will defend his IBF and WBA heavyweight world titles against Carlos Takam after Kubrat Pulev withdrew through injury.

The fight is scheduled to take place at the Cardiff’s Principality Stadium on October 28th, with more than 70,000 tickets already sold.

Pulev suffered a shoulder injury in sparring, with 36-year-old Takam the next in line.

It will be Joshua’s first bout since he stopped Wladimir Klitschko at Wembley Stadium in April, adding the WBA title to the IBF belt he claimed in 2016.

Promoter Eddie Hearn said Cameroonian-French boxer Takam had been on standby for the fight.

“I received a call from [promoter] Kalle Sauerland late afternoon to inform me that Pulev had injured his shoulder and may be ruled out of the fight – this was later confirmed by his doctor,” he added.

“IBF rules state that the mandatory will go to the next fighter in line, which is Carlos Takam.

“When the Pulev fight was announced I made a deal with Takam’s team to begin camp and be on standby for this fight.

When I called them this evening they were overjoyed and good to go.”

He added that the change of opponent put Joshua in a “difficult position”.

“Having prepared meticulously for the style and height of Pulev, he now faces a completely different style and challenge in Takam,” Hearn said.

“This hasn’t happened in his career before but he is ready for all comers on 28 October.”

In September, Hearn said Joshua’s aim was to face Pulev before facing Cuban Luis Ortiz, the mandatory challenger for his WBA title.

He also stressed that Joshua, who turned 28 on the 15th October, does not want to vacate either of his belts and would rather defend them before hopefully facing WBC title holder Deontay Wilder of the United States in the summer of next year.

The fourth recognised title in the heavyweight division is held by New Zealand’s Joseph Parker, who retained the WBO belt with a points victory over Briton Hughie Fury last month.

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SPORTS

OCTOBER 2017

Sport DO YOU HAVE A SPORTS STORY? Call us on 0121 667 8719

Thousands Take Part In Birmingham Marathon

Thousands of runners took to the streets of Birmingham for the city’s first marathon in over three decades, including one 106-year-old man.

The 26 mile event started at Birmingham’s Alexander Stadium and took in a number of the city’s most iconic landmarks before finishing in the city centre.

22,000 people participated either in the Birmingham International or the half marathon on Sunday, in the city’s first marathon event since the People’s Marathon, which was held between 1980 and 1985.

Chris Ashford, from Harborne, Birmingham, was the first runner to cross the line, finishing in just over two and a half hours.

The world’s oldest marathon runner was one of the honorary starters at the

Marathon.

106-year-old Fauja Singh, otherwise known as the ‘Turbaned Tornado’, took up running when he was in his 80s after moving to London from Punjab in northern India.

Mr Singh first made a name for himself at the age of 89 when he completed a marathon in six hours and 54 minutes – taking 58 minutes off the previous world best in his age bracket.

He became the first 100-yearold to complete a marathon, in October 2011, when he crossed the finish line of the Toronto Waterfront Marathon in 8 hours and 11 minutes.

Fauja, who was one of the torchbearers for the Athens Olympics in 2004 and for the London 2012 Olympic Games, said, “I feel privileged in being part of Birmingham’s

first International Marathon because it makes me feel as if I am still running myself.

“Although I felt I still had many running years left in me when my coach and family wisely made the decision to retire me from running, I am proud to be part of the diverse Birmingham community that has always shown me love whenever I visit this great city.”

After passing the finishing the line in a time of 2:33:55, winner Mr Ashford said he was pleased to win in his hometown.

“To win at my home competition is absolutely fantastic. The crowd has been fantastic support,” he said.

“I’ve done the half marathon the last couple of years so to win the first Birmingham International Marathon, I’m so pleased.”

Fauja Singh became the oldest runner to complete the Birmingham International Marathon at the age of 106.

39

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OCTOBER 2017

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