The Asian Today Issue 232 - March 2018

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he world of Bollywood is in mourning after the legendary Bollywood goddess Sridevi Kapoor, died at the age of 54 after reports of a heart attack after attending a close family wedding in Dubai on Saturday 24 February.

Sridevi married to film producer Boney Kapoor and have two daughters was with her husband and youngest daughter in Dubai attending her nephews wedding before the tragedy struck.

The actress featured in 300 movies and was one of the few female superstars who was capable of huge box office success.

Sridevi started her career in acting at a very young age in a Tamil movies and in Malayalam films, her debut in to hindi movies was in 1979.

She was known to master all her roles from romance to comedy satire.

While the industry will not see the beauty queen any longer on the silver screen her memories will always be part of Bollywood.

The Asian Today looks back at some of her iconic Bollywood films Himmatwala 1983 Mr India 1987 Chandni 1989 Nagina 1986 Chaalbaaz 1989 Lamhe 1991 Khuda Gawah 1992 Judaai 1997 English Vinglish 2012 Mom 2017 Bollywood stars, Politicians, Musicians, Sporting icons and fans have been paying tribute to the superstar all over social media who have grown and lived in the times of star.

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PRIDE OF BIRMINGHAM AWARD T

he voluntary Birmingham Youth Sports Academy (BYSA), founder Anwar Khattak received Pride of Birmingham Award for TSB Community Partner Award for his remarkable work with thousands of children which took place on Thursday 8 March at University of Birmingham’s Great Hall.

The sports academy is set-up to help coach children in football and offer educational training, mentoring and guidance. Within months of starting a kickabout for a dozen youngsters the group increased tenfold, soon Anwar had to interview volunteers to start a

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MP Preet Kaur Supports Youth Refugees PG 3

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ANWAR KHATTAK AWARDED TSB COMMUNITY PARTNER AWARD

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Our Motto: " Making Birmingham Better by inspiring our youth" cont'd from front page

community football club for local kids.

Anwar speaks to The Asian Today about his Birmingham Pride Award: “This award means a lot to me and for the organisation for the hard work, time and dedication since 2002” “I had a vision then and now it's all paid off having so many children in and out our doors, the success stories then and now, changing children lives, mentoring and educating them, covering topics of life skills, setting future aspirations help and supporting them and finally being there for them to be part of an organisation. The BYSA has made its mark within the community we have had many challenges over the years but non-that could not be solved it's truly been an honour to serve my community with my group of volunteers and may it continue.

“When I found out about the award I was speechless and was happy to see that we are being recognised by

me to become successful in what I set out to do, my brothers who have been role models for me and gave me character I am today but most importantly my wife and children who have allowed me to continue delivering the BYSA project and may it continue as my sons says "one day I will take over the BYSA. “I like to thank everyone who has helped, supported, funded, guided me and the BYSA project especially my sponsors, ambassadors, partners, volunteers and the members of the BYSA the children, parents and the community without them the BYSA would not be here today.

“I would like to say a special thanks to my late parents, brothers as role models, my wife and kids letting me continue my work within the BYSA. “Thank you to my team of volunteers old, new and present who have the same vision and drive as me to deliver the project

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“I get a real buzz of seeing the kids playing out and enjoying themselves. Our motto has always been to inspire potential to fulfil dreams, and that will always be our goal.”

Dawn Megginson, area director for TSB West Midlands, says: “The TSB Community Partner Award is all about celebrating the amazing work people do to help their communities thrive – and Anwar is a shining example of someone doing just this.

"Supporting young people not only on the pitch, but off the pitch too, and helping them to reach their full potential, is so important. It’s set to be a fantastic evening and I can’t wait to celebrate all of the remarkable things happening right across Birmingham.”

To date, Anwar estimates that around 5,000 youngsters have been through the doors of the BYSA, with some even going on to train as sports coaches.

Anwar was one of eleven winners, hosted by Coronation Street star Kym Marsh in front of a starstudded audience including the city’s best-known celebrities.

The other winners included: Outstanding Contribution Award Jane Sutton Young Fundraiser of the Year Tristan Price Child of Courage Tilly Barker Fundraiser of the Year James Golding Emergency Services Lyndon Flavell Outstanding Bravery Harry Athwal Special Recognition Nicki Donnelly Lifetime Achievement Cyrille Regis Stephen Sutton Inspiration Award Mikey Ayers Special Recognition Linda Sandhar-Haynes Child of Courage Robyn Birdsell

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others that may or may not know what we do in the heart of small Heath offering a service on a voluntary basis since 2002 on average 9/10 hours per week it all adds up I was over the moon when I told my team that we have won an award for our hard work which at one stage everyone was shocked but it all sank in and put smiles on everyone faces especially when it was announced to the children of the academy.

“Having played at a semi-professional level and all the good coaches and managers I've been around they have motivated me to start something up myself as nothing was available around the area this is why the BYSA started its journey to deliver sports coaching for children, all credit to my late parents who believed in

“The award is a bonus and much appreciated for the recognition and hard work that goes into the BYSA project on a voluntary basis since 2002 it's an honour to be noticed me and my team are very proud “When the Pride team came to visit us, there were 172 kids in attendance, and they asked me ‘How is one man going to make them all be quiet?’

“You have to see it to believe it, but all our kids are respectful.

“When they heard we had won the award there was certainly a big scream and loads of applause.”

Anwar admits he gets a kick out of seeing the club get recognition, he reveals his real ‘buzz’ comes from seeing the kids off the sofa and running around outside.

"I had a vision then and now it's all paid off, having so many children in and out our doors and their success stories"

Edgbaston MP delighted by pioneering project supporting young asylum seekers and refugees An ambitious new programme helping young refugees and asylum seekers thrive within the Birmingham community has been praised by Preet Kaur Gill, MP for Birmingham Edgbaston.

More than 100 young refugees and people seeking asylum are being supported in the city through Surviving to Thriving, a £1m partnership between British Red Cross, the Refugee Council and UpRising, funded by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

Ms. Gill met with 7 of the young people to hear firsthand about their experiences of living in Birmingham, and how the project is helping them build their confidence, learn new life and leadership skills, improve their mental well-being, reduce social isolation and become active members of their communities.

Commenting on her visit, Ms. Gill said she was ‘delighted’ to see the difference that the Surviving to Thriving project is making to the lives of those it

supports in Birmingham.

She continued: “Many young people who are refugees or seeking asylum have gone through truly horrendous experiences – experiences that would be extremely traumatic for an adult, let alone a young person or child.”

In Birmingham, young people can access tailored support from the British Red Cross, Refugee Council and UpRising. This can include workshops on rights and entitlements, group sessions to build confidence, skills

West Midlands residents encouraged to use NHS 111 service to avoid unnecessary A&E visits

West Midlands residents are being urged to avoid unnecessary trips to A&E by getting help from an enhanced NHS 111 service, which now offers a wider range of clinical services in the Midlands than ever before. This includes direct access to advice from GPs, nurses, midwives, pharmacists and specialists in mental health, cancer and child health.

Dr Mathi Woodhouse, GP at Pinn Medical Centre said: “NHS 111 in the Midlands can now offer patients an even wider range of medical advice direct from pharmacists, GPs, nurses and mental health specialists who work hand in hand with call handlers.

“We want to help people understand how NHS 111 can help them and reduce unnecessary trips to A&E, which will help our hospitals.

I know that patients want high quality clinical advice, close to their home from trained professionals and this is what they can get from NHS 111.”

Dr Mathi shares 5 things worth knowing about NHS 111 1. NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It’s recently been enhanced and can now offer clinical advice, assessment

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and direction to the most appropriate healthcare service.

2. Depending on the situation, the NHS 111 team can connect you to a nurse, emergency dentist or even a GP, and can arrange face-toface appointments if they think you need one.

3. NHS 111 is staffed by fully trained advisors who can assess if you need an ambulance, and if you do, one will be sent immediately.

4. NHS 111 has a confidential interpreter service available in many languages.

5. If you need a prescription, the service can organise to have it available for pick up at a convenient local location for you.

Hemangini Bhatia shares her experience of using NHS 111: “I called NHS 111 when my son was breathing very heavily with a wheezing sound. This happened twice, first when he was 4 months and later when he was 16 months. I found NHS 111

very helpful. The call handler asked a few questions, talked me through the process and then made an appointment at Hospital which saved me from going to A&E. As a result, my son was quickly diagnosed with croup and was successfully treated. I wouldn’t hesitate to call 111 again if I needed to.”

Mala Kumari shares her experience of using NHS 111: “We were concerned when my 3 year old son was breathing heavily during the night so we called NHS 111. After asking about his symptoms the call handler arranged for an ambulance to be sent to us and my son was admitted to hospital.

It transpired that he was allergic to dust and had an asthma attack. I am grateful to the NHS 111 team for their quick response to our call and the immediate action taken.”

NHS 111 is a free service available 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. For further information about NHS 111, please visit www.nhs.uk/111

and social networks, one-toone and group therapeutic counselling, and personal development and social action schemes.

Ms. Gill added: “The support provided by Surviving to Thriving is offering crucial assistance to some of the most vulnerable in society enabling them to not only come to terms with the ordeals of the past, but to go on to lead happy, successful lives and become active members of the community.”

More than 250 young refugees and asylum seekers have been referred to Surviving to Thriving across Birmingham, Leeds and Bedfordshire since its launch in June 2017.

Firty, 19, is one of the young people accessing the programme in Birmingham.

He explained: “Surviving to Thriving gives you all the help and direction you need to know about your situation,

3

and how you’re going to be able to live here in the UK.” He added: “For me that’s been so important.”

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MARCH 2018

Councillor Narinder Kooner Wants A No Go Area For Criminals Handsworth Wood Councillor Narinder Kooner s calling on police to ‘do their bit’ and provide funding for a Neighbourhood Watch team she has formed in her local ward.

Cllr Kooner’s idea is to set up a Neighbourhood Watch in the area after a spate of burglaries in the area. .

Cllr Kooner, who is also a resident of Handsworth Wood, said: “We want Handsworth Wood to be a no-go area for criminals.

“We want criminals to know that if you come

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WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM them, I’m not doing this just in my remit as a councillor, I’m doing this because I am a resident just like the rest of you, I’m concerned.

“It’s about saying ‘I’m going to look out to make sure nothing else happens in my area’.

“Because it might be happening to your neighbour today, but you never know it could be you they strike on tomorrow.”

“I want the Chief Constable

in this area you’re being watched, and you will get caught.”

“There has been a couple of arrests, they’ve seen people attempting to commit crimes, one person caught in back garden, trying to use garden as escape route,” she added.

There has also been fewer instances of residents being ‘rushed’ at their doors by criminals posing as professionals.

Having seen the response from local residents, Cllr Kooner said she felt privileged to be a part of a community that would

come together, despite their differences, to tackle crime.

She said: “I feel humbled to be in a community where they are coming together like this, because not all communities would do that.

I feel privileged to be their councillor to be honest.

“I was born and bred in this area, I went to schools in this area, I own a business in this area. This is our area. ” Cllr Kooner also added that she will be heading out with the team to patrol herself.

“I intend to be one of the street watch people that are trained up because I said to

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to do his bit, and the police to do their bit,” she explained.

“You’ve got a community that are stepping up.

“We’ve lost our community support officers, that were making themselves visible and deterring them from crime, now the community is doing that what can you do to support them and make it clear this is an area that’s being patrolled.

“I want to get funding to make it more visible that

we are on watch, signage on the vehicles or jackets or something on the lampposts or stickers in houses.

“It would be an effective use of funds if we were able to do something to show this is an area that’s being watched.”

Cllr Kooner has arranged for her Neighbourhood Watch team to be trained by police on Thursday, February 22.

The crimefighters will then know exactly what they can and can’t do when out on patrol.

New hospital hotline introduced for inpatients A hospital hotline has been introduced at a West Midlands trust to respond to concerns inpatients or their loved ones may have about care.

New Purple Points have been installed outside ward areas at Sandwell, City and Rowley Regis Hospitals, which have phones that link directly to a team of advisors.

The aim is to address concerns quickly, before the patient is discharged. The phones can also be used to compliment staff for the care they’ve given.

The move by Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust comes after a survey was conducted by Healthwatch Sandwell, a health watchdog, which found patients wanted concerns resolved in a more timely approach.

The phone line will be manned between 9am and 9pm every day. There are numbers for non-English speakers to call.

Kam Dhami, Director of Governance, who is leading the project, said: “We have access to a range of patient feedback and we identified a theme through some of our complaints, and from a report carried out by Healthwatch Sandwell, that a more timely approach to issues of concern would be helpful.

“Patients will be able to use the Purple Point phone line to tell us about any concerns with their care whilst an inpatient. We will aim to get the concern resolved quickly. They can

also use the phone line to report good experiences of care so that we can pass positive feedback onto the teams. The service will also be available in other commonly spoken languages – patients just need to follow the instructions and dial the number corresponding to the language they require.

“The service is not intended to replace the many ways we already have to act on patient feedback. It is an additional option for patients or relatives who want to give a compliment or need to have an issue dealt with promptly.”

Patient Peter Broome, 65, of West Bromwich, said: “I think this initiative is really good for inpatients and their families. It’s great that the hospital is doing something like this to improve the patient experience.”

The advisors will speak to the caller about their concern and then make sure that the relevant ward staff are informed so that they can resolve issues quickly. The team, along with the ward staff will also check with the patient that they are happy with the outcome.

The phones were launched across Sandwell, Rowley and City Hospitals at the end of February.

John Clothier, Chair of Healthwatch Sandwell, said: “We fully support this new initiative which, in response to our report published in 2016, shows that the Trust listens. This will help patients, relatives and carers to have their concerns about treatment and care addressed quickly and effectively. We wish Purple Point every success.”

Non Executive Director at the Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Councillor Waseem Zaffar MBE welcome the initiative: ‘Its absolutely vital for a NHS trust operating in one of the most diverse areas in the country, to do all it can to ensure as many patients as possible feel as comfortable with the services being provided and to achieve this, we need to ensure that communication isn’t a barrier. This new service will go a long way in eradicating communication barriers between patients, their families and the outstanding staff working at the hospitals.’

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Amirah Foundation Investigated for Financial Irregularities 6

MARCH 2018

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A charity that helped victims of domestic violence in Birmingham has been closed surrounded by allegations of financial irregularities.

The charity Amirah Foundation, based in Sparkbrook, set up in 2011 to help victims of domestic abuse was praised for its work in breaking down barriers for women in the Muslim community.

Amirah was a high-profile campaigning group and supported by many.

The charity won funding from the Home Office , West Midlands Police Commissioner and the Big Lottery Fund, while its former chief executive Shaz Manir was a member of West Midland Mayor Andy Street’s Leadership Commission set up to increase diversity among civic leaders.

The charity’s trustees said they launched an investigation into alleged financial irregularities late last year after a formal complaint from a former employee.

Chief executive Shaz Manir was suspended and trustee Nurjahan Khatun criticised.

The trustees started their review after a woman working at the charity saw bank statements she claimed showed unusually large sums apparently for rental payments.

In the Initial findings by the trustees it was said Ms Manir "on occasion paid herself a full wage more than once in a month".

They also say money was still being paid to a company registered in the name of Ms Khatun, chairwoman of trustees, "two years after it was dissolved".

A community outreach group Bearded Broz have made a heartfelt plea for a safe haven to be found for a homeless man living under a Birmingham bridge.

The homeless man, Eccleston Fields has been sleeping rough under the Saltley Bridge for nearly a year has recently been battling the recent freezing temperatures and

shelters and hostels.

“I cannot live in the shelters and all I want is my own home.

“I have been here for almost a year and of course, I do not want to be here but I feel like I have no choice.”

Naveed, one of the founders of the group, said: “We became aware of a guy living under the bridge and we wanted to help him.

According the Charity Commission website Amirah’s accounts are overdue.

The Commission confirmed it was investigating the allegations.

A spokeswoman said: “We are engaged with the trustees of Amirah Foundation Limited regarding concerns raised with us about the charity.

As well as reporting the allegations to the Charity Commission, it was understood the Big Lottery Fund, police and Action Fraud had been informed of the allegations.

Amirah Foundation has now closed its doors, the support for vulnerable women has been offered by another charity PennyAppeal.

support from there.

“He is not well enough to be sleeping on the streets, in these conditions.

“It has been freezing cold and we just don’t know how he has managed to survive in recent weeks.

“He feels let down and that everyone has given up on him.”

Naveed and Imran said they are in contact with various professional organisations to find Eccleston the appropriate help. wearing distinctive clothing.

Investigating officer PC Stephen Tighe, said: “Someone in the area will know who this is. They’re wearing distinctive clothing and are likely live in the local area themselves.

I would urge anyone with information to contact me on 101.”

Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111. Please quote crime number 20BE/34505D/18.

Bearded Broz Plea to Help Homeless Man Under A Bridge

snowstorms.

“I just want the key to my own front door,” “I have been in and out of

“It has taken time for us to build up his trust and a relationship with him but we have got to a stage where he

is smiling and laughing with us now.

“We take him food every day and clean up the area around him.

“But this is not a long-term solution for him.

“We see a lot of people who are trying to milk the system but this man has a genuine need.

“We need someone to provide him with a roof, with a view of then getting him into permanent accommodation and ongoing

Sari Shop in Ward End Raided

Three raiders stormed into a Ward End sari shop before making off with cash, CCTV footage shows the moment a shop owner tried to push a masked robber from his shop after a cashier was threatened with a knife.

The three crooks enter the shop and help themselves to large amount of cash from the till.

Shopkeeper at Sana Collections, which is located on Washwood Heath Road, paces

over and pushes a robber who was keeping watch in the doorway.

As their fellow crook is pushed outside of the shop, the two remaining robbers make a run for the exit and the trouble spills outside.

West Midlands Police asked: “Can you help us catch them?

“Some of the suspects were wearing face coverings at the time of the robbery – but we’re hopeful someone might recognise them as they were

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East End Director Dr Jason Wouhra Receives OBE

Businessman Dr Jason Wouhra, Institute of Directors of the West Midlands Chairman, has been invested with an OBE for services to Business and International Trade by His Royal Highness Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales.

Dr Wouhra is a Director and Company Secretary of East End Foods plc, and said he was “delighted, honoured and humbled to receive the award”.

He added: “I am grateful to my family, team at East End Foods and the numerous West Midlands business leaders and directors I have worked with over the years. Their help and support has been invaluable, thank you to those who have supported and guided me on my journey. I aim to continue to grow and assist others around me.”

East End Foods, a Landmark Wholesale member, is a company with over 40 years of experience as a leading supplier and innovator in the UK Indian food market, with an annual turnover of over £180 million.

Jason said the investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace had been ”a magnificent occasion – and particularly so as my family were there to witness it. They have always been so supportive of my work, whether with East End Foods or in my voluntary roles.”

Jason holds numerous voluntary and community positions.

Currently he is a non-executive director at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and is the Chair of Aston University’s Development Board, the West Midlands Police Business Crime Prevention Board and the Child Poverty Commission.

Through his role with the IoD Jason has been a strong supporter of the region’s business community, working to build an environment in which enterprise can flourish.

Police Station to Transform in to Muslim Community Centre

A former police station in Perry Barr will be transformed into a new multi-purpose Muslim centre.

Great Barr Muslim Foundation (GBMF) purchased the Walsall Road building for £820,000 at an auction last September – more than half a million pounds above the registered guide price.

However, after completing the deal, planning permission must be granted as the council deem the proposal ‘unique’ due to its combination of uses.

The applicant wants to establish the first Muslim community centre in Great Barr and intends to use the building “entirely for charitable purposes”.

A spokesman said: “GBMF exists to provide the local community with an Islamic environment conductive to education, extra-curricular activities, and prayer facilities; catering for the full range of age groups in our community, to educate and improve awareness and create harmony and cohesiveness in our community.”

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Stolen Vehicle Parts Taxi Driver Alerts Other Cabbies to be Uncovered in Chop Shop More Vigilant 8

MARCH 2018

A taxi driver from Ward End disturbed would-be thieves as they smashed their way into his cab.

Shakeel Hussain believes they were on the hunt for cash, after claiming another seven cabs were targeted on the same night.

The taxi, a Toyota Avensis, was parked on Woodwells Road when the thieves pulled up alongside in another vehicle and smashed the driver-side window.

One of them then searched through the glove box and attempted to open the car door, causing an alarm to sound - alerting Shakeel.

"I heard the alarm go off at about 5.30am so I poked my head out of the window," said Shakeel, who lives with his wife and teenage daughter.

"I swore at the man and he jumped into a car which sped away.

"Unfortunately, the CCTV footage wasn't clear enough so it's impossible to see a numberplate.

"After the incident, I posted the footage on

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Police officers recovered large amounts of vehicle parts all alleged to have been stolen – when they raided a business in Springfield Road, and a house in Grove Road, both in Sparkhill, at 6.25am on Thursday February 15.

Images show stripped down engine parts, springs, coils and other internal and external vehicle components lined up along a fence and stacked in the garden of a terraced house.

Facebook and a number of people replied to say there was a spate of taxi thefts on the same night.

"Apparently five vehicles were targeted in Bordesley Green and another two on Monk Road, just off Woodwells Road.

"I think the thieves were trying to find loose change, but I make sure I remove everything from my car at the end of a shift."

The driver, who works for Galaxy Cars, was forced to

All the parts seized will be examined by forensics and will be an on-going enquiry.

Sgt Haroon Chughtai of Springfield Police said: “We acted in response to reports from the public that car parts that were thought to have been stolen, were being sold from these addresses.

“This is an example of how we act on information from our communities, and we would always encourage people to come forward if

take a day off on Wednesday as the window was replaced leading to a loss of earnings.

"I would have earned roughly £100. I lost out on that and had to pay £150 to replace the glass and another £50 for the labour," Shakeel said.

"Now my daughter is struggling to sleep as she is worried the thieves are going to come back."

Shakeel, who didn't report the incident to police, is now urging other taxi drivers to stay vigilant.

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they suspect that crimes are being committed.

“Officers from the Springfield Police team worked with officers from West Mercia Police and partners including the Driver Vehicles Standards Agency to execute the warrant.”

Cars which have been stolen to order often end up in chop shops where they are broken up into parts and sold on.

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Detective Examine Motive For The Killing of Sarbjit Kaur A team of murder detectives are investigating the murder of Sarbjit Kaur 38-years-old who was found in her Rookery Lane home at 4pm on Friday 16 February.

It is claimed she had been assaulted and may have died several hours before family members discovered her body.

The house she lived in remains sealed off to allow forensics experts to search for vital evidence.

Detective Chief Inspector Chris Mallett, from the force’s homicide team, is leading the inquiry.

He said: “Mrs Kaur was attacked in her own home: this is a shocking and thankfully rare case. We are determined to bring her killer or killers to justice.

“Forensics experts are methodically picking through items inside the house that could be of evidential value and we will be fast-tracking forensic samples for analysis.

“We are building up a clearer CCTV picture in the immediate vicinity of the crime scene and are drafting in additional officers to help with the CCTV trawl and examination of footage.

“We found the interior of the property in an untidy state − which could indicate it had been searched − and we believe some jewellery

items are missing. We are working with the family to understand exactly what items may have been taken.

“However, the motive is unclear; we are keeping an open mind and examining several lines of enquiry.

“I would urge anyone who saw anything suspicious in the Rookery Lane area last Friday, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to contact us.”

Mrs Kaur had been attacked but a post mortem examination has so far been unable to identify the precise cause of death; further tests will be carried out in due course.

There have been around 150 burglaries in Wolverhampton so far this year but Det Chief Insp Mallett said none involved occupants being subjected to serious violence.

He added: “We are reexamining many of these burglaries and expediting investigative opportunities to establish if there could be any link with Mrs Kaur’s death. However, we have not seen any home invasion offences recently in Wolverhampton where extreme levels of violence have been used.

“We have conducted houseto-house enquiries and police officers have been out and

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about on patrols in the local area, speaking to members of the public and offering reassurance.

“We would always urge residents to be vigilant, to report any suspicious activity, and to take common sense crime prevention measures like keeping doors and windows locked and not to let any unsolicited callers into your home.”

Neighbourhood police officers has been mounting extra patrols in the area in the wake of the murder.

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INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY 2018

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INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2018

BREAKING BARRIERS

M

arch 8th marks the annual International Women’s Day. The internationally recognised campaign celebrates and acknowledges the achievement of women. This years theme #PressForProgress, is asking people to help bridge the gender by raising their voices. In every corner of the UK there are brave women and girls who have taken on the fight for equality. We look into the inspirational British Asian women who are pledging for progress and are helping other women to find their potential. This International Women’s Day, we celebrate them.

10 INSPIRATIONAL BRITISH ASIAN WOMEN Manjit Kang

1

Neelam Heera

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Anita Champaneri

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Preet Kaur Gill

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Dr Haseena Lockhat

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Award winning Banker, Vice President ABCC, Non-Executive Director ART business loans. Manjit Kang has been working at Natwest Bank for over 26 years and started her career at a very young age and has worked her way up in the company, she became the Diversity Ambassador for the bank in 2014 and is also an Ambassador for Women in Business to encourage and empower more women to set up and grow their own business.

Her role as Vice President for the Asian Chamber of Commerce is to connect, support and grow

Paralegal and Founder of Cysters, Director/ Trustee for StopHate UK, Board Member for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion with Law Society. Neelam studied Law at The University of Law and went on to complete her masters in Law. Neelam has worked in a few law firms as a Paralegal, gaining experience in Yorkshire, Birmingham and the wider West Midlands. Neelam founded Cysters – a support group to help raise awareness with gynaecological issues including endocrine disorders especially in the Asian communities. Neelam writes a column each month for The Asian Today highlighting different gynaecological issues.

PR supremo, Food Blogger, Managing Director of Delicious PR. Anita’s background is in media and has worked for the BBC and ITV in Birmingham and London. She started her own PR company, Delicious PR in 2007 putting her skills from television and print and offering her clients an all-round marketing package.

Anita has proven to be a successful independent woman who has thrived to succeed in a competitive field. She is an ambassador for LoveBrum, Midlands Food Drink & Hospitality Awards.

Member of Parliament for Birmingham Edgbaston and First Female British Sikh MP. Preet a labour Co-Operative politician for Edgbaston, the first female British Sikh MP and member of the Home Affairs Select Committee. Preet is very active member of the community and encourages community cohesion, she has been praised for her recent programme to help young refugees and asylum seekers.

As the eldest child she faced the cultural and familial expectation to get married first but refused and continued with her studies and wanted to give something back to the community.

Chartered Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Vice Chair for Mosaic West Midlands, Member at West Midlands Police. Haseena is a strong pillar to the community, she is passionate about making a difference and supporting issues with mental health, education, Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).

Haseena recently wrote a book on FGM talking about the controversial issue of female circumcision and the effects this has mentally and physically.

Her support for encouraging and empowering women in the community has been rentlesss.

Sahdaish Pall

Pushpa Alexander

Narinder Kooner

Noreen Khan

Sameena Ali-Khan

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Domestic Violence Service Manager, Chair of Sikh Women’s Action Network.

Sahdaish is a strong and outspoken campaigner for the rights of those who experience domestic violence and abuse. She has helped support many women abling them to be confident and independent. She holds various workshops and events as part of SWAN to inspire, develop and empower women to live confident and fulfilled lives. Sahdaish has written books one being on arranged marriage and abuse and the effects this has on an individual.

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Founder, host of Headz Up Business.

Pushpa is an entrepreneur, professional speaker, award-winning event organisor with a proven record of hosting successful SOLD OUT events on digital, social media marketing and women in business events. Pushpa Alexander, has a strong sales & marketing background, with over 25yrs experience within the Exhibition industry with B2C & B2B Trade Shows.

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Councillor for Handsworth Wood, Assistant Leader for Birmingham City Council.

Narinder is councillor for Handsworth wood and is passionate about the safe keeping of the area and supporting her locals.

Narinder has recently set up a neighbourhood watch gathering locals and with support of the police to deter criminal activity in the area. She is Director for SWAN (Sikh Women’s Action Network) and helps support and empower women.

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BBC Asian Network Radio Presenter, Businesswoman, Sports Fan. Noreen is a popular radio presenter and engages with her audiences through her warm and witty presenting style. Her BBC Asian Network radio show is the most listened to in the UK. She has her own clothing and fashion label for women who wantt o make a statement and offering made to measure services, so you look and feel confident.

Noreen has been touring her comedy show – Ladies of Laughter.

Noreen shows committment and devotion to motivating other female entrepreneurs.

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ITV Central Journalist Sameena has a strong personality and has been working in media since 1989 on radio stations and moved to ITV in 2005. She was one of the brave reporters to be on the site of 9/11.

Sameena has hosted awards ceremonies across the country and received many awards including Best In Media at the prestigious Birmingham Awards and is currently spearheading the launch of ITV Central’s 'Breaking into the News' competition.

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MARCH 2018

THE ASIAN TODAY

EDUCATION

Royals Celebrate STEMettes at Millennium Point

irmingham saw the first visit of Prince Harry and Ms Markle attending the event at Millennium Point to celebrate International Women's Day, meeting young women from secondary

schools as they took part in building apps and touchpads, before hearing more about their motivations to pursue STEM subjects.

Millennium Point brought together 90 female students from secondary

schools to inspire them with opportunities in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) fields.

Judith Armstrong, CEO of Millennium Point, said: “Just 21 per cent of those working

in core STEM occupations in 2016 are women. That is 13,000 more than the previous year – but there are 218,000 more men in Core STEM - resulting in a 1 per cent drop in the percentage of women.

“There are now more than 17,000 more women in SET managements roles since 2015 - but women still only represent 14 per cent of SET managers.

“The estimated STEM worker shortfall is now around 70,000 a year.

Encouraging young women to pursue careers in STEM is vital.

“Millennium Point is the West Midlands’ focal point for promoting STEM and is committed to providing the young people of the region with the opportunities to be the pioneers of the future.

Being able to showcase the Stemettes event and the work of Millennium Point and its Trust to Prince Harry and Ms. Markle on International Women’s day is a great honour.

“We’re dedicated to supporting equal opportunities and encouraging girls in these sectors and are delighted that our activities are helping to give the important issues around women in STEM such a high profile.”

The event at Millennium Point included interactive activities, a panel discussion, speed networking opportunities with local businesses.

Joseph Chamberlain College are delighted to have their commitment to excellence publicly recognised, having been rated Outstanding across all areas in their recent Ofsted inspection under a framework that is far more rigorous than previous inspections. The College’s fantastic achievement now places them as the first, and currently the only college in Birmingham and Solihull that Ofsted deems an Outstanding Provider for all learners for post-16 and adults.

A team from the Government’s education watchdog undertook a thorough, full inspection of the College at the end of 2017. The inspection covered all aspects of the College’s provision, including the quality of teaching and learning, outcomes for learners, the effectiveness of leadership and management, students’ personal

development, behaviour and welfare, and adult learning programmes.

Ofsted’s commendatory report praises the College’s ‘highly positive atmosphere for learning’ as one which displays ‘inspirational teaching’, in an environment where ‘students make outstanding progress from their different starting points’.

Other key highlights from the report include: • Students’ conduct in lessons and around the college is impeccable. They feel safe, are highly positive about the quality of their learning, and are polite and respectful towards adults and each other.

• Students make outstanding progress and a very high proportion successfully gain their qualifications.

• Teaching is of consistently high quality across a range of academic and vocational subjects;

teachers use their strong knowledge of assessment criteria very effectively to ensure that students are well prepared for external examinations.

• A very high proportion of students successfully progress to higher education and an increasing number gain places at prestigious universities.

• Leaders, managers and staff have successfully generated a culture of high aspiration, harmonious relationships and mutual respect that is highly evident throughout all aspects of the college.

The College’s latest accolade is one they have worked extremely hard towards since their last inspection in 2014, building consistently year upon year with exceptional results, creating an aspirational learning environment for learners and undertaking rigorous professional staff

development programmes.

Elly Tobin, Principal at Joseph Chamberlain College, said about the recent Ofsted grading: “Of course, I am personally delighted with the outcome of the inspection but I am particularly delighted for

the staff and students here who are the ones that have made this outstanding grade possible. I am so proud of the staff for all they do to support students. We work here as a real learning community and everyone, support staff and teachers

B

Joseph Chamberlain College Celebrate Outstanding Achievement

alike are dedicated to the success of our students.”

The College are, as always, striving to build even further on this achievement and are excited about the opportunities it will be able to provide its students in future years.

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PRIYANKA ON SET TURN TO PAGE 18

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1963 - 2018

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he world of Bollywood is in mourning after the legendary Bollywood goddess Sridevi Kapoor, died at the age of 54 from accidental drowning whilst attending a close family wedding in Dubai on Saturday 24 February.

Sridevi married to film producer Boney Kapoor and have two daughters was with her husband and youngest daughter in Dubai attending her nephews wedding before the tragedy struck.

The actress featured in 300 movies and was one of the few female superstars who was capable of huge box office success.

Sridevi started her career in acting at a very young age in a Tamil movies and in Malayalam films, her debut in to hindi movies was in 1979. She was known to master all her roles from romance to comedy satire. While the industry will not see the beauty queen any longer on the silver screen her memories will always be part of Bollywood.

The Asian Today looks back at some of her iconic Bollywood films Himmatwala 1983 Mr India 1987 Chandni 1989 Nagina 1986 Chaalbaaz 1989 Lamhe 1991 Khuda Gawah 1992 Judaai 1997 English Vinglish 2012 Mom 2017 Bollywood stars, Politicians, Musicians, Sporting icons and fans have been paying tribute to the superstar all over social media who have grown and lived in the times of star.

RANVEER AND DEEPIKA TO TIE THE KNOT - TURN TO PAGE 18

ZAYN MALIK BOLLYWOOD DEBUT TURN TO PAGE 19

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WINK! WINK!

The Indian Internet has found its new love, the 18-year-old Malayalam actress Priya Prakash Varrier. A clip of her winking at a boy from an upcoming movie Oru Adaar Love has gone viral with memes, tweets and Instagram posts being dedicated to the girl with the most expressive eyes.

Her following count on social media started skyrocketing and social love hasn’t stopped pouring in ever since with over million followers on Instagram.

Internet Sensation Priya Varrier WINK goes viral

Karan’s Twins Turned One

Fire, fury, action and love: the much-awaited and spectacular trailer for Sajid Nadiadwala’s Baaghi 2 has been released. Tiger Shroff returns in Ahmed Khan's sequel to the 2016 hit film Baaghi, and is joined by Disha Patani (M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story, Kung-Fu Yoga).

Baaghi 2 showcases Tiger Shroff in a much more muscular and deadly avatar compared to the prequel. The Movie will be on screens from 30 March.

THE REBEL FOR LOVE RETURNS IN EPIC TRAILER FOR BAAGHI 2

Celebrating 19 years of Togetherness

Kajol and Ajay Devgn celebrated there 19 years of togetherness in Singapore. The lovely couple with their son Yug joined their daughter Nysa who is studying to spend some quality family time together.

They are taking a small break from their respective shoots and intimate celebration will only include the four of them.”

Wishing the couple a Happy Anniversary!

Karan Johar celebrated his twins first birthday Roohi and Yash. In an interview by having a small party at home, the overjoyed father said, "It's a small birthday party at home, with just kids their age. I want to keep it simple and intimate this year" while a source added: "Karan has already spoken to his friends and invited them and their tiny tots to the party at his home. Guests were Taimur Ali Khan (Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan's son), Adira (Rani Mukerji's daughter), Misha Kapoor (Shahid Kapoor and Mira Rajput's daughter), Laksshya Kapoor (Tusshar Kapoor's son) and some other B-Town kids."

Actress Radhike Apte Starring in brand new Netflix Orignal A new film releasing on netflix starring Bollywood actress Radhika Apte. Ghoul is a horror movie inspired by Arabic folklore and based around Nida, a newly qualified interrogator who turned in her own father as an anti-government activist.

As she furthers her work, things take a supernatural twist when Nida discovers that the terrorists at her detention centre are not of this world.

Kick 2 Will Have A New Leading Lady Kick 2 has been rumoured to release Christmas 2019, the Bollywood beauty Jacqueline Fernandez will not be pairing up with Salman Khan a source close to the project said, “Jacqueline Fernandez will not be a part of Kick 2, however this is not because of any issue between anyone, but because the story is completely different.

The team have decided to cast a new leading lady and shortlisted a few names an announcement will be made soon.

However, the pair will be teamed up together in their upcoming movie Race 3.

Ranveer and Deepika to Tie the Knot

The hottest Bollywood couple Ranveer and Deepika are getting married this year and may just be a destination wedding. Both of them are beach bums and you can expect a beach wedding. It will be an intimate affair though, with just close family and friends in attendance.

We will have to see how the duo plans their wedding?

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PRIYANKA looks chic Priyanks Chopra, star of ABC's hit TV-series Quantico, looks chic in a black coat on the set of Quantico, which is currently being filmed in NYC for season 3. Priyank Chopra Plays Alexandra 'Alex' Parrish as the protaganist in the hit American television drama thriller series.

Kanika Kapoor Becomes First Indian Artist to Perform At Buckingham Palace The 10th Anniversary celebration of the British Asian Trust took place in London. The HRH Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall hosted a special anniversary and invited the talented Kanika Kapoor, and British music producer Naughty Boy along with many other celebrities. Baby Doll Singer Kanika kept the audiences entertained with a live mix of Sufi and popular English songs. Kanika was excited to perform

at Buckingham Palace and said, “It was an amazing performance which we did at Buckingham Palace. The music was curated by Naughty Boy, it was an evening to remember according to the guests present there. With her performance at the 10th Anniversary celebration of the British Asian Trust in London, she is the first Indian artist to have performed at the Buckingham Palace and singer is also an ambassador of the Trust.

INTERESTING FACT: Priyanka is the first-ever Indian actor to have her foot impression casted in the Salvatore Ferragamo Museum in Italy, joining the likes of Audrey Hepburn and Marliyn Monroe.

s I a k Zayn Malik h s u n A Bollywood i r a P o N Debut

Anushka Sharma movie Pari is her third home production after Phillauri (2017) and NH 10 (2015). Anushka has been experimenting with off-beat concepts and Pari might be just the right dose of horror that Bollywood needs. The movie is released in cinemas March 2nd.

BY: HUSNA

BOLLYWOOD BOLLYWOOD

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Kala Chashma Swag Se Swagat KalaBaar Chashma Baar Dekho Tiger Zinda Hai Baar Baar Dekho

Ghoomar Tere Sang Yaare Tere Sang Yaare Rustom Padmavati Rustom

Dil Diyan Gallan Gani Gani Mani Zinda Tiger Sandhu Hai & Akhil Mani Sandhu & Akhil

BanGhoomeya Jag Ja Rani Jag Ghoomeya Sultan Tumhari Sulu Sultan

AajRendhe Tu Se Teri Tu Rendhe Tindy Padman & Rixx and Sudesh Kumari Tindy & Rixx and Sudesh Kumari

Pallo Latke Woman Woman Shaadi mein Aana Shide Boss ft Zaroor Zack Knight Shide Boss ft Zack Knight

Chalte Peat Pehai Booty kya 9 se 12 Peat Pe Booty A Judwaa Flying 2Jatt A Flying Jatt

Ek Dil Ke Jaan Suit Suit Randhawa Guru Padmavati Guru Randhawa

Mehbooba Tu Hai Tu Hai Returns Mohenjo Fukrey Daro Mohenjo Daro

Hawa Hawai 2.0 Dishoom Dishoom Tumhari Sau TarahSulu Ke Sau Tarah Ke

BHANGRA/POP BHANGRA BHANGRA

‘Black Panther’ brings box office power to Hollywood The success of the big-budget Marvel film has demonstrated the commercial potential for movies with more diverse casts and stories.

This is an important moment for film industry as it shows that a predominantky black cast with a black hero and a black writer and director can fill theatres with audiences, a film indusatry that has often assumed that films cast with with mainly diverse black actors would not be successful.

THE BY: ASIAN TODAY HUSNA

ZAYN: Fan of SRK and the film DEVDAS The former One Direction singer Zayn Malik has confirmed his Bollywood debut and is also collaborating on an album with music maestro AR Rahman. In the interview of Elle India, Malik has said that he can't name the movie but he informed this is a full Hindi number so it will be exciting.The singer is a Bollywood fan and has previously confessed his love for SRK and Devdas, which is his favourite movie.

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Bad (OAMC tagged no 1) Gabbroo Gabbroo Jassie Steel Banglez Gill ft. Preet Hundal Jassie Gill ft. Preet Hundal

Galtiyan Akhil Akhil Teri Kami Zack Knight Teri Kami

Raat DiPrince, Ashok Gedi Tru-Skool Ashok Time Dosanjh Diljit 4 YaPrince, Mind Tru-Skool Time 4 Ya Mind

Bom &Diggy PBN Raj Bains PBNAkh & Raj&Bains Billi Zack Knight Jasmin Walia Billi Akh

Dil Diyan Manni Sandhu Gallan Manni Sandhu Welcome Atif Aslam To The Future Welcome To The Future

Woofer Tere Bina Tere Monty Dr ZeusBina &feat Waris, Snoop Ginni Dogg Kapoor & Nargis Monty & Waris, Ginni Kapoor

Lahore Skoda Skoda Ranjit Guru Randhawa Bawa ft. Bhinda Aujla Ranjit Bawa ft. Bhinda Aujla

Illegal Ikk Vaari Weapon Hor Soch Lae Ikk Vaari Hor Soch Lae Harish Garry Sandhu Verma & Jasmine Sandlas Harish Verma

Jaani Tera Naa Kulwinder Billa Kulwinder Billa Kulwinder Sunanda Sharma Billa Kulwinder Billa

El Sueno Selfi e Boliyan SelfiDosanjh eSingh Boliyan Malkit Diljit ft. Dj Vix Malkit Singh ft. Dj Vix

UK UKARTISTS CHART UK ARTISTS

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Mi Gente One Dance One JDrake BalvinDance feat feat Wizkid Beyonceand & willy Kylawilliams Drake feat Wizkid and Kyla

Havana Cold Water Camila Cabello Cold Water Major Lazer and Justin Beiber Major Lazer and Justin Beiber

HowGood Too Long Too Good Drake Charlie feat Puth Rihanna Drake feat Rihanna

Anywhere This is what you came for ThisOra isHarris what you came for Calvin Rita feat Rihanna Calvin Harris feat Rihanna

Sexy Dirty Love Heathens Heathens Twenty Demi Lovato One Pilots Twenty One Pilots

Closer Smoother Closer Chainsmokers Craig Lucas feat Halsey Chainsmokers feat Halsey

Too Good at Goodbyes Perfect Strangers Sam Smith Perfect Jonas BlueStrangers feat JP Cooper Jonas Blue feat JP Cooper

Tears About Us What Tears Clean Bandit feat Louisa Johnson Pink Clean Bandit feat Louisa Johnson

This Girl Unforgettable This Kungs Vs Cookingfeat on 3Swae Burners FrenchGirl Montana Lee Kungs Vs Cooking on 3 Burners

We Don't Talk Anymore Demonstrate We Don't Anymore Charlie PuthTalk feat Selena Gomez Paxton Charlie Puth feat Selena Gomez

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TIGER

In Co n v er s ati o n w it h

Shro ff

We speak with Tiger Shroff about his latest movie Baaghi 2 - An army officer goes in search of his ex-lover’s child who is mysteriously kidnapped. Neha (Disha Patani) reaches out to the only person who can help her with her plight, Ronnie (Tiger Shroff). Release date 30th March

Your reaction to the buzz that Baaghi is similar to The Raid ?

I haven’t seen The Raid. After this whole thing started, I saw the trailers that were being compared and I don’t know why people make such a big deal of it, because if that’s the case, then every hero is riding a horse.

Lawrence Of Arabia should file a case against them or something like that. This only means that the trailer has definitely hit people in the right spot and it’s already made a mark and made some sort of impact and stirred some sort of an emotion. But, you know, you cannot put down somebody’s hard work like that. So what if we have a building in our movie? We can keep a fight scene on the ground

or atop a building — wherever we want — that’s my director’s vision.

What else can I say? I think we’ve worked so hard, it’s very upsetting that people would put such things on often like that because that’s not our intention at all. This is a Bollywood film, we have a love track, we have songs, we have Shraddha Kapoor who is fighting, there are so many characters.

You don’t take it as criticism?

When I go to watch a Jackie Chan film, I know what exactly I’m going to watch and that’s what I want and I want to be on the edge of my seat. I want to be entertained. The fact that I have made an identity and the fact that people are already expecting that

out of me, it means I have already won. I have made an identity.

People already know me for a reason.

Aren’t you worried of being stereotyped?

No. But at the same time, I want them to come with that notion and I want them to go through the film, experience the film, and I want them to see the journey of my characters, I want to shock people. You cannot judge, the fact that they are judging me from one film that they are expecting Tiger Shroff film to be like this and like this, what does that tell you? I mean in one film have I already made my mark? I don’t think so, but it’s a very nice thought that

people are thinking of me that way.

Your mom is your biggest cheerleader.

While your dad is more of a silent supporter.

Comment.

I think my father is most insecure about me and most stressed and worried about me.

My mother is a lot cooler.

My father doesn’t show it, but he definitely feels very protective of me because he’s been through it. He’s been through the grind, he’s seen the dirty side and the good side.

Tell us more about your film Baaghi It is about going back to our roots and being proud of what we are. We had martial arts form here but don't know why people

were not using it. Everybody in the East wants to be like West and people in West want to be like East. I have tried my best to do justice to this art form. Whatever I have learnt so far, I want to up my quotient in action.

COMPETITION 5 PAIRS OF TICKETS TO SHOLAY 3D, POWERED BY RISHTEY CINEPLEX

Question: What is the name of Hema Malini's horse in Sholay?

Email your answer to anita@theasiantoday.com - Competition closes 14.03.18 Date of tickets: Sunday 18th March

Venue: ICC Birmingham

Doors Open: 10.30am, for the immersive experience

Website: www.bollywoodfever.co.uk One entry per household, date cannot be changed

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MARCH 2018

TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719

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21

Signature Awards 2018 Winners Announced 'Our time has arrived' 22

MARCH 2018

‘Our time has arrived’ was the cry from the West Midlands Metro Mayor Andy Street at the 4th Signature Awards which took place at the ICC on the 16th Feb. Over 550 attendees were reminded that the West Midlands is now getting into the habit of ‘winning’ and the recent successes of Coventry’s bid for City of Culture and the landing of the Commonwealth Games were testament of the confidence in the region. He spoke about future plans for the region including the impact that HS2 would have on the region.’

Key note speaker Derby based Entrepreneur Kavita Oberoi spoke about the

Lifetime Achievement Award:

EXCELLENCE IN DIVERSITY:

NEWS

WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM

importance of persistence and perserverance. She described how despite obstacles she managed to succeed in a very competitive environment. Kavita also encouraged philantrophy and the importance of ‘giving’ back and challenged the audience to review how they give back to society. In the week that celebrated Women receiving the vote, Kavita also reminded the audience that women were increasingly playing an important role in business.

Organiser Ninder Johal re-iterated the Mayors comments and was pleased to that there was optimism surrounding the possibility of Channel 4 also relocating

Paul Sabapathy

Irwin Mitchell Solicitors

to the region. Mr Johal also spoke about the importance of skills and education in a post brexit era and the need to innovate in an ever increasingly competitive global marketplace.

The evening saw the crowning of businesses and professions in various categories acknowledging the importance of both manufacturing and the service industries.

There was a lifetime achievement award for Paul Sabapathy who has through his long career been recognised by the Queen on three separate occasions for services to regeneration and business through his role as former Lord Lieutenant and CEO in the NHS. Other winners included the fast growing accountancy practice Baldwins who picked up the Excellence in Finance for Organisations and Black Country Based Talash Hotels who picked up ‘Excellence in Business’.

Further winners included Ruzwan Boota from Mazars

Excellence In Law:

(Excellence in Finance for an Individual), Eileen Schofield ( Excellence in Law as an individual ), Raj Chadha ( Excellence in Creative and Media ), Trowers and Hamlins ( Excellence in Law for an Organisation), Rin Ryan of Barclays for Excellence in Banking, Simon Marks ( excellence in Land, Architecture and Property Development ), In Comm training ( Excellence in Promoting Apprenticeships), Kamran Sheikh ( Excellence in the Business Professions for Owner Practice ), Irwin Mitchell ( Excellence in Diversity) and Gurpreet Bassi ( Young Professional of the Year ) .

The headline sponsor for the evening was Birmingham City University. Other supported sponsors included Rational FX, Porsche, Hollywood Monster, NFU Mutual, University of Wolverhampton, FBC Manby Bowdler, Pathway Group, Vision Print, East End foods and Made in the Midlands.

Trowers & Hamlins

Excellence In Finance:

Baldwins Accountants

Highly Commended:Edward

Cooper Young Chartered Surveyors

Highly Commended:Vic

Younis & Jagjeet Singh Virdee

Excellence In Business Profession for Owner Practice:

Kamran Sheikh

Excellence In Business:

Sanjay & Ravi Kathuria (Talaash Hotels)

Excellence In Banking:

Rin Ryan (Barclays)

Young Professional of the Year:

Gurpreet Bassi

Excellence In Land, Architecture & Property Development: Excellence In Finance: Ruzwan Boota

Excellence In Law: Eileen Schofield

Excellence In Promoting Apprenticeships:

In-Comm Training

Excellence Creative Media : Raj Chadha

Simon Marks (Arcadis)

MARCH 2018

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INTERNATIONAL

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23

INTERNATIONAL

Indian Woman Disguises JAS SANSI The Thinking Man's Mouthpiece 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.

PRIMERA AIR TAKES OFF

Media and Business were invited to the launch of Primera Air at Hyatt Regency in Westside BID (Business Improvement District). Jas Sansi landed in Birmingham’s entertainment district to learn more.

Fly direct is the new mantra for air passengers who want non stop routes to far flung destinations. Following last week’s announcement of direct non stop flights between Birmingham Airport and Amritsar, BHX were in the city today to announce a new airline, Primera Air. Primera Air will introduce direct low cost services to New York, Toronto, Malaga, Barcelona, Palma and Crete from May 2018. Flights to North America start at £149 (one way including taxes), Malaga, Palma and Barcelona start at £35 and Crete from £54.

In 2017, the West Midlands exported £6.2 Billion worth of goods to the USA and exported £779 Million to Canada, the highest of any region in the UK. For the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) and the British American Business Council (BABC), the timing of Primera Air’s arrival could not be better.

Primera Air flights between Birmingham and North America start in May, one month ahead of the BABC hosting a major transatlantic conference (June 6th – to 8th 2018) across key venues in Birmingham City Centre including Birmingham Cathedral, Birmingham Town Hall and the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire.

The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and British American Business Council team were at the launch to welcome Primera Air to the West Midlands. The relationship has started on a high for Chairman of British American Business Council, Steve Allen who’s name was selected in the business card draw for a pair of flights to New York.

Congratulations to Steve Allen, and to Primera Air, we would all like to echo the words of Deputy Midlands Mayor Cllr Bob Sleigh ‘Welcome to the West Midlands.’

Primera Air https://primeraair.co.uk British American Business Council Transatlantic Conference, Birmingham: https://www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/latestnews/news/2018/1/10/birmingham-to-host-major-transatlanticconference/ Westside BID Follow on Twitter @westsidebid

Deputy Midlands Mayor Bob Sleigh, Cllr Brigid Jones, William Pearson and Anastasija Visnakova

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

as A Man For Dowry P

olice in India have arrested a woman who allegedly disguised as a man and tricked two women into marriage for dowry.

Krishna Sen was arrested in the northern state of Uttarakhand for demanding dowry, which is illegal in India.

During police interrogation it was revealed that Krishna was a woman.

They believe Krishna, 26, formerly known as Sweety, has been pretending to be a man since 2014 when she first married.

“We conducted a medical examination and found that Krishna is female.”

Krishna reportedly separated from her first wife soon after the wedding and married another woman in April 2017.

But her former in-laws lodged a police complaint accusing her of harassing their daughter for a dowry.

They also alleged that she had borrowed 850,000 rupees ($1,3297; £9,467) from them to start a business and had not returned the money.

Police said Krishna told them she had always wanted to be a boy and live a “man’s life”, adding that it was unclear if Krishna parents were aware of what she had been doing.

The two women she married didn’t seem to have suspected her. Krishna never disrobed in front of them, and according to the

police, she was never sexually intimate with them.

She mostly had male friends, used men’s toilets, and spoke in a different tone of voice, police said.

She also reportedly smoked, drank alcohol and drove a motorcycle with her male friends to ward off any suspicion.

“With male hairstyle, dress

and behaviour, Krishna used to live a male life. Nobody ever doubted Krishna,” another police officer said.

She even walked like a “confident man”, he added.

Police said they are on the lookout for Sen’s family, who were present during both the weddings and allegedly visited the homes of the two duped women.

for her and her family.

Punjab state chief Shehbaz Sharif tweeted that he was "deeply saddened" at the news.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai called Ms Jahangir a "saviour of democracy and human rights".

Another prominent Pakistani lawyer, Salman Akram Raja, tweeted that Ms Jahangir was "the bravest human being I ever knew" and that the world was "less" without her.

In her career, Ms Jahangir was a staunch defender of human rights and women's rights, and a pro-democracy activist, and was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2005.

In 2014 Ms Jahangir told AFP news agency she

had seen changes in the perception of human rights in Pakistan.

"There was a time that human rights was not even an issue in this country," she said. "Then prisoners' rights became an issue."

"Women's rights was thought of as a Western concept. Now people do talk about women's rights."

Asma Jahangir's career: * Trained as a lawyer and worked in Pakistan's Supreme Court from age 30 * A critic of the military establishment * Jailed in 1983 for prodemocracy activities * Put under house arrest in 2007 for opposing military leader's removal of Supreme

Court chief justice * Co-founder of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan and of the first free legal aid centre in Pakistan * Co-founder of the Women's Action Forum, set up to oppose law that reduced a woman's testimony in court to half that of a man's * The first female leader of Pakistan's Supreme Court bar association * Winner of several awards including the Unesco/Bilbao prize for the promotion of a culture of human rights and the French Legion of Honour * Served as UN special rapporteur on freedom of religion and on human rights in Iran

Leading Pakistani Rights Activist Dies at 66 A

leading Pakistani human rights activist and lawyer Asma Jahangir has died at the age of 66 after she suffered a cardiac arrest.

The pro-democracy activist championed women's rights throughout her career.

Jahangir was a Pakistani human rights lawyer and social activist who cofounded and chaired the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan. She was known for playing a prominent role in the Lawyers' Movement and served as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief and as a trustee at the International Crisis Group Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi led tributes to Ms Jahangir, saying her death was a great loss for the legal fraternity, and praying

24

MARCH 2018

THE ASIAN TODAY

FOOD & TRAVEL

WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM

FOOD & TRAVEL

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

NEW OPENINGS THIS SPRING: THE IVY Swanky London restaurant The Ivy is opening in Birmingham this spring and has given its first hint of what it will look like inside.

The group behind the world-famous eatery is opening a branch inside the former Louis Vuitton boutique in Temple Row. It is one of the most anticipated restaurant openings in Birmingham this year BUT it’s not the celebrity haunt that use to feature in all those tabloids years ago. It’s a more casual grill affair, so I hope people don’t go with high expectations and come away disappointed.

First peek looks like it will be set to look spectacular, let’s hope the menu and service is of a high standard also. The restaurant will be decorated in The Ivy's signature green colours with contrasting burnt orange seating and polished marble floors. It will seat around 150 so looks like they will need to hit the ground running to compete with all the other great restaurants on the doorstep. I’ll sure I’ll give it a try but I’ll still be loyal to Fumo across the road!

DIRTY MARTINI A get down and dirty girls night out should always include cocktails so it’s with sheer female excitement that there will be a Dirty Martini on our doorstep. Due to open in the old Viva Brazil near Colmore Row, the bar is set to throw open its doors with sheer abandonment in April. Lots of 2 for 1 offers, and ‘get down and dirty vibes’ to be expected for sure.

Little BLACKWOOD After the closure of the much loved Cheval Blanc in Moseley Village there will be a new independent restaurant replacing it this March.

The bijoux little venue will be taken over by Ben Taylor, former head chef at the Cen restaurant at Celtic Manor who also worked at my fave country pub, The Boot In Lapworth and Mal Maison in Liverpool.

Little Blackwood will be a 37 seater venue with a modern European menu with the emphasis on a fresh seasonal produce. Definitely one-to-watch.

TV Chef Aktar Islam To Open An Iconic Restaurant A

proud Brummie celebrity chef is rearing to open a new city centre restaurant in spring.

The award-winning chef Aktar Islam said it will be “one of Birmingham’s iconic restaurants”.

Opheem is due to open in May in Summer Row. The 38-year-old was chef director at Lasan which opened in the Jewellery Quarter in 2002 became the first Indian restaurant to be selected as ‘Best Local Restaurant’ by Gordon Ramsey on Channel 4’s The F Word.

Aktar said “As a proud Brummie, I’ve always championed my city’s food scene and now is my chance to continue to give back with something I hope people will feel is very special.

The place is set to be one of Birmingham’s iconic restaurants. Watch this space.”

Aktar, said the restaurant would take diners on an “intoxicating culinary journey”.

Aktar announced he was stepping down from

his role as chef director of Lasan Group in September last year, to pursue other opportunities in the industry.

Aktar added: “Ten years ago, I started a very exciting journey with my fellow Brummie chefs and friends – Luke Tipping, Glynn Purnell, Brad Carter, David Colcombe and Andy Waters – where

Passport Fees To Rise Before Easter

FOLIUM

BODEGA CANTINA

LOST AND FOUND The fictitious Hettie G. Watson has demanded two months of pampering for Lost & Found. The Victorian Queen of Quirky has given the place a Spring make-over and will re-open it’s doors on March 1st with a big party.

The bar/restaurant on Bennetts Hill is home to mystical mixology and delectable dishes. Hettie is a Victorian charmer who mixes her passion for botanicals with a flair for fashion and textiles, a very savvy lady. Looking forward to seeing how they've spruced up the place and what delights she will unveil Get more food news on twitter @deliciouspr and on the web : www.msdeliciouspr.blogspot.com

MIDLANDS

AWARDS

Restaurant Folium in the Jewellery Quarter already proving to be a bit of a head turner, situated just off St Paul’s Square, on Caroline Street it’s billing itself as a Modern British Restaurant Opening in November 2017, its run by Ben Tesh and partner, Lucy Hanlon. Its’ innovative menu and exciting food style is already become a bit of a crowd pleaser. Plates are simple in appearance but full of flavour and respect for the best produce from Britain.

Their cooking style is simple, with clean flavours using the highest quality of ingredients.

A fifth Bodega Cantina will be opening on the bustling Birmingham Road in Sutton Coldfield.

The South American inspired cocktail bar and restaurant was first launched by Bitters ‘n Twisted over seven years ago in Birmingham, with other Cantinas in Worcester, Derby and Leicester.

The Bodega ‘look’ is very popular, with their interior focusing on iconic South American imagery including sugar skulls, Mexican wrestlers and of course football to create a playful and quirky environment.

Popular street food favourites such as Nachos, Quesadillas and Burritos are still on the menu. Plus a new addition - Quinoa Chifa – a Chinese-Peruvian stir-fry containing quinoa, tofu, broccoli, sliced vegetables and spring onion in a teriyaki spiced sauce. Sounds great for veggies but apparently has had mixed reviews.

But I am sure, its range of South American inspired hand-made cocktails and mocktails will still be a big draw for the locals.

we all worked tirelessly to change the world’s opinion of Birmingham and to make it a centre of culinary excellence, which I feel we achieved.

“For various reasons, there has been a break in that journey. Not anymore. I’m going back to doing what I love, cooking and being in the kitchen, where I belong.

The cost of rise in applying for passport has risen and will be in force from March 27. Fees for kids passports are shooting up 27 per-cent from £46 to £58.50 while for adults they will rise from £72.50 to £85.

Applicants can still beat the price rise only if they apply in the coming week and by applying online.

Online applications are to increase, and the new price will be £75.50 for adults and £49 for under 16s.

The rises were passed by 317 to 258 in a vote in the House of Commons.

Fees for "fast-track" applications will rise by £39 for adults to £142, and to £122 for children under 16.

People born before 2 September 1929 are normally exempt from fees or pay a reduced rate.

Diplomats, servicemen

and women or people in a crisis overseas can also have their fees waived at officials' discretion.

Third year running the prestigious awards ceremony celebrating the best in the food, drink and hospitality industry – MIDLANDS FOOD DRINK & HOSPITALITY AWARDS 2018, is back and gearing up to be the biggest celebration ever.

The event will take place this year again at the magnificent Edgbaston

Specialists in

LOW COST FLIGHTS TO PAKISTAN!

“I don’t want to reveal too much just yet but the focus is most definitely on true gastronomy and culinary exploration.”

The Birmingham born chef made his name with his creative, fine dining take on Indian cuisine during Gordon Ramsey’s The F Word in 2010.

NOMINATE NOW! Nominate your favourite Eating, Drinking & Sleeping Establishment

cricket stadium on 25th June 2018.

The MFDH Awards aims to recognise and reward all the amazing attractions from bars to restaurants to cafes and more which are pushing the envelope through first rate menus, creative settings and stellar service.

To Nominate visit the website www.mfdhawards. co.uk. Closing date for nominations is Monday 23rd April 2018, but don’t leave until the last minute!

• We aim to bring you great flight prices, whatever your destination.

• We use a variety of airlines to find you the best deal.

• We can provide tailor made packages and visa facilities.

• We also specialise in Hajj & Umrah Tour packages.

Hotel Bookings & Umrah Visa Services also available LOW COST FARES TO: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Kenya, Ethiopia, Lagos, Dar-Es-Salaam, Dubai and many more destinations.

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FASHION & BEAUTY

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MARCH 2018

FASHION & BEAUTY

Bollywood Showstopper At Lakme Fasion

L

akme Fashion is one of the biggest events in the Indian fashion calendar and was recently held at the Jio Gardens in Bandra,

Mumbai.

Lakme Fashion Week was graced by many Bollywood celebrities who took to the ramp, walking for their favourite designers.

Over the five-day event saw many of A-lister Bollywood celebs, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Shilpa Shetty, Sushmita Sen, Karan Johar,

Kangana Ranaut, Bipasha Basu, Kiran Grover are just a few to name.

Here are just some of showstoppers designers.

Raamz & Chandrika Raamz Hyderabad-based ‘celebrity’ men's wear designer showcased their ‘Boho Men Summer Resort 2018’ collection.

Bollywood actor and a renowned model Karan Singh Grover walked the ramp wearing the designs from Hyderabad’s first and only men designer couple Former Miss World, Sushmita Sen turned showstopper for Kotwara by

Meera and Muzaffar Ali. She looked every bit of elegance paying tribute to the legendary actress Rekha.

Befikre girl, Vaani Kapoor looked astonishing in this backless number for the label Agami by Neha Agarwal.

Actress Kareena Kapoor Khan pulled down the curtains of the finale of Lakme Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2018 as the perfect showstopper for designer Anamika Khanna in a black edgy outfit.

Lakme, being a make-up brand, made it clear that make-up and hair were a priority on the models and celebrities.

Tammy Takkar is the director and founder of Cryotherapy Midlands.

Tammy has introduced a ground breaking Hollywood style treatment to the Midlands.

Tammy has over 10 years experience in beauty industry and had various roles including as a qualified Beauty Therapist, Fitness trainer & Weight Management Advisor, qualified skin specialist by Dr Schrammek and specialising in Asian skin problems.

Tammy will bring you regular advice Tammy will be regularly sharing useful hints & tips for beauty and well-being and offering you advice.

Please visit Active Clinic branch at 273 Hagley Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B16 9NB, West Midland or call on: 0121 455 6529/07590 111974

Active Clinics was set-up by three friends, Raj Dhanda, Tammy Takkar and Hilal Mehdi, who wanted to offer unique treatment to the clients by providing traditional beauty treatments as well as aesthetic treatments under one roof.

Active Clinics provide various Cryotherapy, Beauty, Hair & Facial treatments to improve general wellness, enhance athletic performance, promote weight loss and aid in the fight against ageing.

CRYOTHERAPY FOR BEAUTY & ANTI-AGING Cryotherapy is the next generation beauty and anti-aging partner, and that’s why so many people in the World are turning to Active Clinics to help maintain their youthful appearance. From reducing wrinkles and boosting radiance to firming the skin, freezing the face can have multiple benefits Cryogenically cooled air is directed at the face for a period of 10 minutes, our CRYO Glow treatment penetrates the skin safely, reducing the surface temperature and can help induce the production of collagen to aid in the elasticity and smooth appearance of the face.

CRYOTHERAPY FOR WEIGHT LOSS Combined with a balanced diet and a steady workout plan Cryotherapy for weight loss can help to burn additional calories in just a 30 minute treatment, with some of our clients experiencing additional caloric burn after a treatment, however the results may vary based on the individual. Cryotherapy for weight loss is the latest trend combining cutting-edge technology and science to help people lose weight naturally.

ATHLETES USE CRYOTHERAPY Athletes like Christiano Ronaldo, LeBron James, and many more have used this amazing technique and support Cryo therapy uses. Many reports have suggested that Cryotherapy improves the recovery speed of athletes than any other traditional method.

Even though some people argue that Cryotherapy is quite similar to ice baths and other cold treatment options.

For more information please contact us on Contact us info@activeclinics.co.uk Website www.activeclinics.co.uk For more information please contact us: 273 Hagley Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B16 9NB T: 0121 455 6529 M: 07590 111974 info@activeclinics.co.uk www.activeclinics.co.uk

25

26

MARCH 2018

HEALTH

WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM

THE ASIAN TODAY

HEALTH

What is Cryotherapy?

www.mitamistry.co.uk By: Mita Mistry

Cryotherapy is a pain treatment that uses a method of localised freezing temperatures to a weaken or an irritated nerve

Cryotherapy was originally developed in Japan in 1978 for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, and the benefits have been studied and refined in Europe since that time.

What are the benefits of whole body cryotherapy?

It can benefit a wide range of medical conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, tendonitis, muscle and ligament strains, back and neck pain, and there are even reports it can help with depression and anxiety and skin complaints including psoriasis and eczema.

Beauty & Anti-aging Cryotherapy exposes the body or face to subzero temperatures utilizing liquid nitrogen vapors, therefore the deep layers of collagen in your skin are disrupted and respond by tightening skin instantaneously and creating more collagen. The production of collagen is increased which improves

elasticity and firmness of your skin and therefore reduces cellulite and benefit much more to your skin including : Restoring firmness and radiance Helping to reduce pigmentation or uneven skin tone Helping to rejuvenate fatigued skin Increasing skin radiance Lightening scars left from acne Soothing inflammation Testimonial: Professional Boxer Matt Sen "I first heard about cryotherapy about a year or so ago following an injury during a sparring session.

A good friend of mine, Joe Egan recommended Active Clinics services to help with the repair and recovery.

I looked them up, booked in and was amazed at the speed of the healing process.

Following this I have and still do book in weekly/ fortnightly sessions as injury prevention and so far, so good.

@mitamistry

Cryotherapy:

Boxer Matt Sen

5 Star, Great Service!

If you’re looking for a more youthful look or solutions to any of the other

conditions below, please contact our trained staff at Activeclinicsuk today to schedule a visit.

VISIT OUR CLINIC IN BIRMINGHAM - 273 HAGLEY ROAD, B16 9NB T:0121 455 6529

Are your emotions stopping you getting pregnant?

If you are trying to conceive and thought it would take a few months to get pregnant but 6 to 18 months later you are still trying even though you are doing everything you should be physically what do you do? The cycle of getting excited it’s going to happen this month, getting your hopes up then falling flat into disappointment month after month can start to take its toll on your emotional wellbeing. The continual stress and obsession of getting pregnant makes it harder to conceive which is why it is so important to take a step back and look after your emotional wellbeing.

It helps to understand some of the emotions you may be feeling.

You may feel anger or frustration that things are not going to plan especially if you have no control over the outcome. A healthy way to deal with this is to try and let go of any fixed plans and bring your awareness to the present moment. Let go of the fear that it will never happen and try and comfort yourself in the here and now, remain positive that it will when you and your body are ready. In Chinese Medicine anger, frustration and fear affect the Wood and Water Elements respectively affecting the smooth flow of blood and energy to vital functions involved in fertility.

Lying awake at night worrying about not getting pregnant can be very draining on your energy leaving you feeling tired and stressed.

In Chinese Medicine, worry blocks energy flowing freely to the Earth Element the one responsible for our ability to nurture others and ourselves. Your body needs a healthy Earth Element as it is the heart of fertility to grow a baby just like mother Earth’s fertile soil is the womb from which life springs. Ease worry by calming thoughts before bedtime making a conscious effort to switch off. Meditation or mindfulness exercises are great and you can even download apps on smartphones to help.

You may feel quite sad or a lack of joy in your relationship as trying to conceive can put a huge amount of pressure on a relationship. Often blame, resentment or lack of communication take the fun out of having sex and connecting with each other. Rekindle the passion by taking time to relax together. Remember how you used to have fun before you started the baby-making journey?

Do those things again to start enjoying each other. In Chinese Medicine sadness blocks energy flowing freely to the Fire Element, which plays an essential role in the fertility process as it governs, our ability to love and be loved unconditionally which is needed for bringing a child into this world. I have seen so many couples trying to get pregnant, the minute they stop trying and actually start living and loving each other again, it just happens.

BUSINESS

THE ASIAN TODAY

reparations for the new Bicester-style designer shopping village in the Midlands has begun.

The £160 million McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Village, formerly known as Mill Green is planning for a grand opening for 2020, when more than 80 stores will launch together with restaurants and cafes, a children’s play area and 1,400 parking spaces and views over Mill Green Nature Reserve.

New images that’s have been released which gives more of an idea of what the Cannock outlet village will really look like.

The entrance will feature a clock tower and blue canopies over the shops.

It has a regency style feel to it, similar to the entrance to a historic manor house or heritage train station.

A grand white archway will form the entrance into the

T

he chief executive of 2 Sisters Food Group Ranjit Boparan is stepping down from his day-to-day role in running the company.

Co-founded 25 years ago, the company employs hundreds of staff across the West Midlands, will move to a new role as president of 2 Sisters’ parent company Boparan Holdings.

2 Sisters supplies poultry products to supermarkets across the UK but was thrust into the headlines last year

village.

Shops with blue canopy frontages will also line the entrance, which comes straight from the car park.

Architects are said to be taking inspiration from the surrounding area to create a “retail destination with a distinctive identity”.

The village will cover 26,500 square metres and be home to 130 discount designer shops, together with restaurants, cafes and a children’s play area.

The area is now being prepared for the development, which will be run by McArthurGlen and U+I. It will be the seventh McArthurGlen outlet in the UK – and it’s around a 30 minute drive from Birmingham.

Developers say the Cannock village will be more like outlet villages seen in Europe rather than the UK.

following an investigation by ITV and the Guardian which raised questions over its food standards.

The exposé prompted the company to suspend production at its plant in West Bromwich for five weeks and saw Mr Boparan hauled before the Commons’ environment, food and rural affairs committee in October.

Mr Boparan said: “I am fully committed to building a better, more transparent business,

Plans To Recruit Women And Ethnic Minority Engineers For HS2 P

No brands have been confirmed but the developers are saying they plan to bring labels currently only found in places such as Bicester Village, which boasts more

than 160 designer brands like Burberry, Prada, Fendi, Gucci and Stella McCartney.

A possibility of a cinema is in talks.

Chief Executive Ranjit Boparan Steps Down From 2 Sisters Group modernising our company and simplifying our operations.

“I want to take a broader industry leadership role and concentrate more on the issues and challenges that affect not only our business but also the food sector in general such as Brexit, social responsibility and sustainability.

“These changes are the right ones to make at a very important stage in our business’ history and they help secure strong foundations for future development and growth.

“These are further major transformative steps in a journey to build a better business with a world-class leadership team.”

The group also owns Fox’s biscuits and frozen fish brand Donegal Catch while Mr Boparan has acquired

Balti Bowls Back to Birmingham An engineering company based in the Jewellery Quarter are bringing back the authentic Balti bowls back to the Midlands after 25 years.

Local Birmingham Balti expert Andy Munro and Historic engineering firm AE Harris to engineer and manufacture the bowl for a newly formed Birmingham Balti Bowl Co. Birmingham Balti is a specific style of cooking with

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the curry served in the same pressed steel, flat bottomed wok that it is cooked in.

The bowl was originally made in Smethwick in the 1970s but the manufacturing firm moved out of the region in the 1980s, and soon was being made and imported from overseas.

Andy Munro approached A E Harris & Co to bring the manufacturing of the bowls back to the region. He said: “I want people to come

restaurant groups Harry Ramsden’s and Giraffe through his private investment vehicles.

Charles Allen, chairman of Boparan Holdings, added: “Ranjit has spent 25 years of his life building a world-class food business.

“He has been a catalyst for change within the food industry, by challenging the norm and providing our customers and consumers with great service, great quality food and great prices.

“In his new role, he will be playing to his strengths, looking at new opportunities and reducing debt that will help take the business to new levels of success.”

Chief operating officer Martyn Fletcher will step in on an interim basis while the board searches for a permanent chief executive.

to Birmingham and have the authentic Birmingham Balti experience. The bowl is part of that experience and so it was important that the manufacturer we approached was innovative and passionate enough to see our vision.

The bowls are being mostly bought online by curry fans who want quality dishes to use at home. But the firm is looking to expand through retailers and the restaurant trade.

lans to offer opportunities for women and people from ethnic minorities in engineering to be recruited to help with the construction of the HS2 High Speed line and other projects.

West Midlands mayor Andy Street and HS2 Minister Nusrat Ghani said the UK urgently needs more engineers, both to build the new rail line and for future construction projects.

Both have said that that part of the answer is to get more women and ethnic minorities involved in engineering.

"There can be no doubt, diversity is one of the crucial issues we must tackle in the Year of Engineering.

"The engineering workforce has been 91 per cent male and 94 per cent white. In 2017, women were only eight percent of engineering apprenticeships.

"In an industry that ranges from aerospace and artificial intelligence, to media and medicine we need our future engineers to reflect the diversity of talent and experience all around us."

The National College for High Speed Rail, near Aston University, was set up to train staff to build the HS2 line, due to connect Birmingham with London, Leeds and Manchester.

But the UK is "desperately short of engineers", said Mr Street and Ms Ghani.

They said: "We need 186,000 engineers every year until 2024 and there is a shortage of 20,000 engineering graduates a year."

Both predicted the HS2 line, including new rail stations near Curzon Street, Digbeth, and near Birmingham Airport, would attract more employers to the city.

"The infectious energy of some of this country’s biggest companies, who are already moving to the Midlands with plans to expand and seize the opportunities on offer, will drive forward the creation of new jobs and businesses.

"HS2 is already helping attract world-class businesses to base themselves and invest in cities outside London – with companies like HSBC, Jaguar Land Rover and BBC Three already in Birmingham and others looking at a future in the West Midlands."

“National College for High Speed Rail is a real boost to create opportunities in Birmingham and the wider region – HS2 is not just about a quick link to London, but about economic benefits to this region and creating opportunities for all in Birmingham and the West Midlands."

HS2 Minister:

Nusrat Ghani & West Midlands Mayor: Andy Street

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Theresa May’s plans on Housing P

rime Minister Theresa May delivered her speech on housing plans and includes turning empty shops into homes. She has announced that she pledges to protect tenants from exploitative landlords and cowboy agents.

Theresa May said “Whether you’re renting by choice or necessity, you’re not any less of a person for doing so and you should not be treated as such,” Mrs May said today, as she said solving the housing shortage was a personal mission.

“Tenants are all too often seen as an inconvenient commercial necessity rather than as individuals with rights and needs.

In her speech she said planning rules would be ripped up to allow some

PROPERTY

homeowners to build extensions without planning permission.

For renters she said plans are underway to investigate longer tenancies, ban almost all letting fees and said the Government will support “fit for human habitation” laws that would apply to all landlords.

She said: “With no regulation in property management, the door has been open to cowboy agents – with tenants, leaseholders, freeholders and honest agents all paying the price.”

Her proposals include providing local councils with targets for new housing. This will be based on the projected population increase in each local authority area, with additional homes required in areas where prices are high.

Bad Weather Chaos for Water Suppliers

Midlands water company Severn Trent have been dealing with numerous calls for burst pipes. The bad weather has caused problems with main water supply to homes across the UK leaving many houses without any water.

Severn Trent apologised to customers in the West Midlands area who had no supply.

The company said it has been dealing with "an unprecedented number of leaks".

The firm said "Our teams have been working hard through the night and we're happy to say that customers in both Birmingham and North Nottingham now have

water supplies back on.

"Thanks so much for your patience - we know how hard it is to have no water."

"When water freezes within a pipe it expands, putting more pressure on it and causing it to split or the joints to pull apart.

"When the temperature starts to increase again, the water will start to leak out.

"We know just how hard it is to be without water and we hugely appreciate everyone’s patience as our teams work round the clock to mend the bursts and reduce any impact to our customers."

Suppliers from across the country reported high volume of calls and asked customers to be patient while repairs are carried out.

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GreenGT - H2 Speed

It looks like a car from the future, Pininfarina’s innovative vision of a high performance track car based on revolutionary hydrogen fuel cell, covers 0-62mph in 3.4 seconds and has a top speed of 186mph.

This sports vehicle is zero emissions able to reach 300 km/h by releasing just water vapor into the atmosphere. With a maximum power of 503 horsepower, the engine accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds. H2 Speed eliminates both air and noise pollution. The compressor gives the vehicle’s engine

a very special tone, completely different to that of conventional electric cars. So even the noise made by the car is close to the emotion of silence, sounds and hisses that evokes science fiction.

There’s no gearbox, clutch or diff; drive goes directly to the rear wheels and is governed by torque vectoring system.

Pininfarina says the compressor system ‘gives the vehicle’s engine a very special tone,’ with ‘science fiction’ hissing sounds that are reputedly quite different from

conventional electric cars.

It’s been created partnership with GreenGT, a Franco-Swiss specialist electric powertrain outfit (hence the Swiss and Italian flags on the bodywork).

The H2 Speed has two large radiators at the front of the channels to cool the fuel cell block and the distinctive upside-down L-shaped wings at the front direct further airflow (as well as supporting the concept’s slim-line LED light strips.

The car’s total weight is 1420kg, on empty tanks.

18-Plates That Have Been Banned Below is a list of other 18-plates the DVLA has banned.

BO18 CKS KN18 YOU SS18 WAR BL18 JOB PU18 BES TA18BAN DVLA censors banned number plates ahead of the new registration plate that deem to be inappropriate, offensive or racist.

A DVLA spokesperson told The Sun: “The vast majority of registration numbers are made available but the agency holds back any

combinations that may cause offence, embarrassment or are in poor taste.”

Newly banned '18 car numberplates The DVLA also has the power to force drivers to hand back number plates if one is found to have slipped through the net.

BO18 LOX RO18 BED TA18BNN CO18 BAT RO18 BER UK18 WAR KN18 FEU RO18 YOU VA18 NAS

2018 New Motoring Laws

The law in motoring changes all the time and 2018 there are some very big change. Here are six new changes to the law that will affect each and every one of us.

New MoT legislation The MOT legislation will come into play on May 20th, which introduce new testable items.

Any diesel car that has had its DPF removed or tampered with will instantly fail the test, while aftermarket high definition headlamp bulbs will also be outlawed.

Reversing lights will be tested for the first time, and your car will also fail if the brake fluid is visually deteriorated.

Classic cars over 40 years old will now be exempt from testing, too.

Finally, the current system of advisories will be replaced with minor, major and dangerous faults. Minor faults will work the same as the current advisory system and won’t constitute a fail. A car with dangerous faults cannot be driven away from the test until the repairs have been carried out.

Learner drivers to be allowed on motorways Starting this year, learners will be allowed on motorways for the first time, though motorway driving will not be part of the test as there are some regions of the country where this will be impractical, such as Western Wales and the Scottish Highlands.

All instructors will be encouraged to give drivers some motorway training during their lessons.

Penalties for misusing motorways New ANPR-based (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras will be introduced on major motorways to monitor misuse of the hard shoulder. If a driver uses the hard shoulder on a managed motorway when it isn’t open or drives in a lane with a red ‘X’ above it, the cameras will automatically trigger a penalty, which includes a £100 fine and three points on your driving licence.

Changes to the driving test The new test laws will include a section where learners are expected to follow instructions from a sat nav unit to prove they can follow the directions safely.

The test will also include a section where the driver is asked to demonstrate a function of the car, such as how the windscreen wipers work, or how to demist the windscreen.

Reversing into a car park bay is now also part of the test.

Tax rises for diesel cars First year car tax for all diesel cars that aren’t compliant with the Euro 6 emissions standard will rise by one tax bracket from April 1st, with rates to increase by anything from £20 to £560 in the first year depending on the model and its current emissions Children’s car seats Rules around child car seat safety have changes significantly.

New models of backless booster seats will only be suitable for children taller than 125cm or weighing more than 22kg, with high back seats featuring guides to lower the level of the seatbelt in line with the passenger’s shoulders.

All children below 15 months old must now travel in a backwards-facing car seat.

All children must use a child car seat until they’re 12 years old or 135 centimetres tall, whichever comes first. Children over 12 or more than 135cm tall must wear a seatbelt.

Football For Peace launched in India 30

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SPORTS

Yuvraj Singh Will Play Cricket till 2019

Iconic Peace Match Hosted in Parliament Premises

Former Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic and Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh launched the India chapter of Football For Peace (FFP) on Friday afternoon in Mumbai and revealed that Football for Peace’s iconic Peace Match in the country will he held on the premises of the Parliament later this year. Established by Chilean legend Elias Figueroa in 2006, the Football For Peace gathered momentum in 2013 when British south Asian footballer Kashif

Siddiqi turned it into an international movement.

“Football has been a great unifying force across the globe. The FFP has been using football diplomacy to bring people together by promoting peace and the virtues of inclusion since its inception,” Nemanja Vidic said. “I am sure it can pay a huge role in making India a more tolerant society,” he added.

“We have organised Peace Matches at many iconic locations, including at the

Vatican, the Eiffel Tower and the Big Ben. We have begun the process of organising India’s match at the Parliament in New Delhi,” Kashif Siddiqi, who has played in UK’s professional league, said.

“We will be inviting the honourable Prime Minister of India to play in this match. We are also looking at other world celebrities, like David Beckham, the Prince of Monaco, as also top diplomats and India’s senior politicians to bring about awareness for FFP’s initiatives,” he added.

The FFP, which is supported by the English Premier League and the UK Foreign Office, will identify 10-12 cities in the country as part of its Cities for Peace initiative.

“Close to 1,600 kids in the age group of 7-14 years will be selected in each of these cities. They will be part of a yearlong project, which will include 60% classroom education and 40% football training. Once we reach 5,000 kids, we will declare it a City of Peace,” Kashif explained.

The FFP is supported by high-profile footballing legends like Pele, Ronaldinho as well as The Duke of Cambridge, Prince William and Albert II, Prince of Monaco.

“The work of Football for Peace is important and the fact that sport can do this, bridge so many barriers is fantastic,” The Duke of Cambridge, Prince William stated.

The Indian duo Pankaj Advani and Manan Chandra staged a exceptional recovery to beat Pakistan in the final of the inaugural IBSF Snooker Team World Cup. After being 0-2 down in the best-of-five final played last night, India found themselves sinking at 0-30 down in the third frame.

Thanks to a well-crafted 39 break from Chandra and a classy clearance of the final colours by Advani, the Indian hopes were kept alive.

In the fourth frame, Advani found himself in a spot of bother when trailing 1-20 against Babar Masih, he took charge of the proceedings and displayed his mastery once again by clearing the table with a 69 break.

This made India draw parity with Pakistan and it all boiled down to the final frame to determine the first winners of the inaugural event.

Chandra and Muhammad Asif found themselves in a seesaw frame but it was the Indian who changed gears and did most of the scoring with every given opportunity.

Eventually, Chandra only needed the green to be in the safe zone leaving his opponent requiring snookers.

But with a long pot on the brown, the humbled Pakistani conceded the frame and match.

Advani has said “After it became 2-0 in the favour of Pakistan, we knew our chances of winning were slim and had our task cut out.

After winning the doubles

frame we saw a glimmer of hope and knew now it was up to us to dig deep and individually win both our singles matches to pull off a Houdini,” “Manan played exceptional snooker especially in the crucial deciders of the semi-finals and final, when it mattered most. I’m really

“It is a great honour for me to be involved in a movement which contributes to peace by uniting, educating and promoting friendships between people,” Ronaldinho, a World Cup winner and a popular star in India, said.

Ronaldinho has already been part of an FFP project in India that saw a women’s empowerment initiative in Kerala in 2016.

Sixty girls were chosen as ambassadors who went on to engage 1,5000 children in Kozhikode. Over 1,00,000 fans turned up to watch Ronaldinho in action during the Peace Match in the city.

“The FFP is a great initiative.

The UK Foreign Office is delighted to be part of the entire project,” Crispin Simon, the British Deputy High Commissioner, said. “We have been doing our bit to provide education to the socially backward people in India. This is a wonderful opportunity to take it to the next level,” he said.

Chairman of the Diya Group and global football academy founder (along with Liberia’s President George Weah) Nirav Tripathi is the founding Board Member of India’s Football For Peace chapter.

Indian Politician Kailash Vijayvargiya, who is currently National General Secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), one of the two major political parties in India, is a Board Member.

Join the conversation: #FootballForPeace @FootballForPeaceGlobal

happy for him to win his first world title,” added Advani, who increased his tally of world titles to a staggering 19.

India made a rocky start with Masih scoring a convincing 73-24 win over Chandra in the opener. Asif then went on to steal the second frame from Advani and won it on the black ball 61-56.

India beat Pakistan to win Snooker Team World Cup

India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh says he will continue playing cricket till 2019 before taking a call on his retirement.

Yuvraj, who last played for India in June 2017 in an ODI, said the upcoming IPL held great significance for him as a good performance in the T20 event would help him keep in the fray for a spot in the 2019 World Cup An interview to PTI, Yuvraj, said, “I am looking forward to a good IPL. It’s a very important tournament for me as it will only set me to play cricket till 2019. I am looking to play cricket till 2019, whatever cricket I get to play and take a call after that.”

The all-rounder regrets not being able to become a regular in India’s Test side. “Definitely, in the first 6-7 years of my career when I was at my best I did not get a lot of opportunities because there were such great players in the (Test) team and when I got an opportunity I was diagnosed with cancer. So that regret will always be there but these things are never in my control”.

Pakistan Women's To Play Sri Lanka

The Pakistan women's cricket team will travel to Sri Lanka to play three ODIs and three T20Is, starting March 20. The tour will commence with the 50-overs format fixtures at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium before moving to Colombo for the T20Is. finish.

For Sri Lanka, this will be their first bilateral series since their terrible outing in West Indies in October 2017, where they were blanked across the ODIs and T20Is. The three ODIs will be immensely crucial for both sides as they look to gain points for the current 2017-2023 ICC Women's Championship.

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Birmingham City FC Appoint Garry Monk As Manager B

irmingham City Football Club have appointed new manager Garry Monk on a three-and-a-half-year contract.

The former Swansea, Leeds and Middlesbrough manager joins the Blues as a replacement for Steve Cotterill, who was sacked on following a 2-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest.

He will be assisted by Pep Clotet, James Beattie and Darryl Flahavan Assistant Manager Clotet, First Team Coach Beattie and Goalkeeper Coach Flahavan have also agreed contracts until the summer of 2021.

Monk began his managerial career when Swansea City Club Captain, in February 2014, succeeding Michael Laudrup.

Having kept Swans in the Premier League, he guided them to a club-best eighth in the 2014-15

campaign.

The summer of 2016 Monk joined Leeds United and brought the good times back to Elland Road following several mid-table finishes.

In June 2017, Monk took up the reins at newly-relegated Middlesbrough, his time at the Riverside came to an end in December.

As a player, centre-half Monk made 339 career appearances and lifted the League Cup with Swansea in 2013. He also captained Swans to the League One title and Championship PlayOff Final victory.

He began his career as a trainee at Torquay United before moving to Southampton. It was at Swansea, where he moved in 2004, that he really carved out a niche.

Pozzi Wins World Indoor 60m Hurdles World indoor athelete Andrew Pozzi clinched Britain’s second gold medal by the thickness of his vest on the final day of the IAAF World Indoor Championships Birmingham 2018.

The 25-year-old British team captain, won with his timing at 7.46 seconds to his rival's Eaton who came in at 7.47.

Pozzi didn’t realise he had won and had to wait for officials to study the photo finish before he was announced as Britain’s second gold medallist after pentathlete Katarina JohnsonThompson, standing hand-in-

hand with his American rival at the finish line.

"My heart stopped at the end.

I knew I was behind and I can't describe how much I wanted it.

I was throwing my body at the line and I just about got there. It was a nervous wait at the end.”

Afterwards Pozzi revealed that he had read a quote from Sir Roger Bannister who inspired him before his final about how a gazelle wakes up in Africa every morning knowing it must move faster than the lion to survive.

Despite hitting the second hurdle, Pozzi found his speed at

the right time to triumph in the arena where he first watched athletics live as a 10-year-old in 2003.

After his win it was announced that Bannister the first man to run the mile under four minutes had passed away at the age of 88.

"Roger Bannister was an unbelievable athlete and unbelievable person. I'm very sorry that he has left us but I read one of his quotes today about a gazelle before heading down to the track,” said Pozzi, who is co-captain of the British team.

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