MONTHLY MONTHLY
MULTI AWARD WINNING
AUGUST 2015 ISSUE No.201
£200 VOUCHER INSIDE
www.theasiantoday.com www.theasiantoday.com PROMOTING EDUCATION, & INTEGRATIONNEWSPAPER YOUR FREEDIVERSITY ASIAN COMMUNITY
(See page 3 for details)
UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT
A FATHER’S
WAIT FOR
JUSTICE SPECIAL FEATURE TURN TO 18
F
our years after the 2011 riots, a Birmingham father has expressed his frustration over the lack of movement in his son’s murder case. Talking exclusively to The Asian Today, who has created a petition to examine the police investigation of his son’s murder, has said he has lost faith in the justice system.
The 2011 Pride of Britain winner has now called on the Home Secretary, Theresa May, to look into the flawed court case of Haroon Jahan (19) and brothers Shahzad Ali (31) and Abdul Musavir (30) – who died during the 2011 Birmingham Riots. Eight men were charged with the murder, however were acquitted after the case collapsed due to police incompetence.
BIRMINGHAM RIOTS: FOUR YEARS ON TARIQ JAHAN: “WHEN MY SON DIED, I SAID TO THE PRESS, ‘A DAY FROM NOW, MAYBE TWO DAYS FROM NOW, THE WHOLE WORLD WILL FORGET AND NOBODY WILL CARE.”
AUGUST 2015
2
GET IN TOUCH:
Charged ANJEM CHOUDARY
• CHARGED: Anjem
EDITORIAL
Choudary inciting hatred
Got a story? E-mail it to us at: editorial@theasiantoday.com
ADVERTISING Maximise your business potential. Specialist advertising sections include: education, business, property, and motoring.
Extremist Preacher Urged People to Support ISIS A
e-mail us: sales@theasiantoday.com or call: 0121 667 8719
WEBSITES www.theasiantoday.com www.desixpress.co.uk
CONNECT WITH US
INSIDE THIS MONTH LOCAL NEWS
2
EDUCATION
39
DESIXPRESS
47
NATIONAL
56
INTERNATIONAL
56
FASHION & BEAUTY
58
FOOD & TRAVEL
60
HEALTH
62
LIFESTYLE
63
BUSINESS
65
PROPERTY
66
MOTORING
67
SPORTS
68
14-Year-Old Sentenced to 11 Years
THE TEAM EDITORS
Ifraz Ahmed Anita Chumber
SENIOR JOURNALIST Hifzha Shaheen
SALES Anita Chumber
CREATIVE DIRECTOR David Ley
DISTRIBUTION Door Drop Solutions
CONTRIBUTORS Anita Champaneri Manish Gujjar Sunny Malik Mita Mistry Sara Khan Sunny and Shay Dal Dhaliwal Suki Chhokar Manish Patel Kam Chopra Suri Singh Mohammed Zafran Manish Patel South & City College Jas Sansi Rav Deol Raaj Shamji South & City College
GRAPHIC/WEB D. Patel Raz Zubdah
NEWS
WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM
A 14-year-old who stabbed his teacher and then boasted about it on social media posts has been sentenced to 11 years extended sentence. The boy, who can not be named for legal reasons, posted on Facebook – a post which was ‘liked’ 69 times. The reaction to the boy's Facebook message, posted after the racially motivated attack on Vincent Uzomah at Dixons Kings Academy, in Bradford, was described as an "appalling reflection" of society by Judge Jonathan Durham Hall QC. The teenager was handed an 11year extended sentence at Bradford Crown Court after he admitted causing grievous bodily harm with intent Judge Durham Hall criticised the response to the post on the social media site, which read: "The motherf***** getin funny so I stick the blade straight in his tummy." He said: “It’s an appalling reflection on a small microcosm of our society that within minutes or hours after posting, 69 people 'liked'. How sick. "You went to your school armed with a knife with a significant blade
intending, when the opportunity presented, to stab your teacher Vincent Uzomah. "You boasted about it before, you boasted about it after when you had stabbed him." Jonathan Sharp, prosecuting, said: "He did not show any especial hostility to other teachers. Mr Uzomah, however, is black. "The defendant disliked him, claiming he couldn't teach, and freely referred to him by the epithet beginning with the letter N, including saying it in anger just before he attacked him." Vincent Uzomah, talking after the sentencing, said, “As a Christian, I have forgiven this boy who has inflicted this trauma and pain unto me and my family. It was however, important for the law to run its course and for a strong message to be sent out, especially to kids of similar tendencies, that violence is never acceptable. Our prayer for him is that he will make use of the opportunities and support that will be provided to him to become a changed person who will make positive contribution to the society.”
radical extremist preacher has been charged with urging people to support the terrorist group, ISIS. Anjem Choudary is accused of inciting hatred and has been charged with committing the alleged offence between 29 June last year and 6 March. Alongside the 48-year-old, Mohammed Rahman, 32, of Whitechapel, east London, has also been charged with committing the same alleged offence in the same time frame. They are accused with inviting support for the banned terrorist organisation through lectures which were published online. The Met Police have said both men have been detained in custody and are due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court. A police spokesman said the men were arrested by the Met's Counter-Terrorism Command (SO15) on suspicion of being members of the proscribed organisation on 25 September last year. They have remained on police bail throughout the investigation. Both Choudary and Rahman
IN THIS MONTH:
have been charged under the Terrorism Act 2000. Sue Hemming, Head of Special Crime and Counter Terrorism at the Crown Prosecution Service, said, “Following an investigation by the Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command, we have today authorised charges against Anjem Choudary and Mohammed Mizanur Rahman.” “We have concluded that there is sufficient evidence and it is in the public interest to prosecute Anjem Choudary and Mohammed Rahman for inviting support for ISIL, a proscribed terrorist organisation, between 29 June 2014 and 6 March this year. "Each man is charged with one offence contrary to section 12 of the Terrorism Act 2000. “It is alleged that Anjem Choudary and Mohammed Rahman invited support for ISIS in individual lectures which were subsequently published online. “The decision to prosecute was taken in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors. "Criminal proceedings have now commenced and both men have the right to a fair trial."
August 3, 1492 Christopher Columbus set sail from Palos, Spain, with three ships, Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria.
August 5, 1962 Film star Marilyn Monroe died at age 36 from an overdose of sleeping pills.
August 14, 1947 Pakistan Independence Day
August 15, 1947 India Independence Day
WINNERS OF MULTIPLE AWARDS WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM
ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES Call TODAY for Fantastic Rates in The Asian Today Newspaper & www.theasiantoday.com
CALL: 0121 314 2892
OR E-MAIL: sales@theasiantoday.com
B LA C K C O U NT RY A S IA N BUSINESS ASSOCIATION
MULTI-AWARD-WINNING NEWSPAPER
SHORTLISTED FOR COMMUNITY EXCELLENCE
EDITOR ANITA CHUMBER AWARDED WOMAN OF THE YEAR
WINNERS OF THE BEST PUBLICATION
WINNERS OF THE BEST PUBLICATION 2014
SHORTLISTED FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO SOCIETY
The Gift of Life NEWS
• GIFT: Deraj Wilson-Aggarwal (L) with brother Jared and father Naresh
W
hen a student found out his father was suffering from liver cancer, he jumped to the chance of saving his life. Deraj Wilson-Aggarwal donated his liver to Naresh Aggarwal, 54, after finding out the news in November 2014. The family originally planned for older brother Jared to be the donor, but after it emerged that he was too high risk, Deraj was eager to step in. The zoology student said, "When we found out the risk was too high for him to do it, I was straight in there. I had stopped drinking anyway as soon as I found out there was a possibility I could donate. "From then on I was
AUGUST 2015
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
Son’s Liver Present to Father
At the age of 21 he put his life on hold to donate his liver to our dad who was suffering from cancer. "This selfless act will hopefully extend our dad’s life by over five years. "To say I was proud would be an understatement, for my brother has shown true bravery throughout From then the entire process of donation from the on I was initial assessments, basically to the dawn of the operation and finally badgering b a s i c a l l y the recovery which badgering my my brother involved four days in brother to let care." me do it. to let me do intensive Mr Aggarwal said "Being a the operation had it. student, it was cured his haemophilia obviously a and cancer and he bit of a change, hoped to eventually be but it's also led me to focus more on my studies and other eligible for further treatment things apart from my life on his hepatitis C. He said: "My extreme revolving around the student gratitude goes not only to the lifestyle of drinking. "It has actually made me health service, the medical, surgical and nursing teams healthier overall." Jared, 25, documented the but in particular my two sons family's experience as his who are my heroes. "At their tender young age brother and father underwent tests and the operation itself they were willing to risk so much to give me another in June. Writing on his blog, he lease of life. I am extremely said, "On June 17th 2015 my lucky and treasure the gift of brother, Day, became a hero. life I have been given."
3
Immigration Raid in Walsall Six people thought to be illegal immigrants have been arrested in Walsall and a HGV driver detained on suspicion of smuggling them into the country in a refrigerated lorry. West Midlands Police were alerted at around 3.15pm by an emergency call from a member of the public reporting people jumping from the back of a truck in
Brockhurst Crescent near the M6 at junction 8. Officers from the Central Motorway Police Group (CMPG) arrested three people, believed to be Vietnamese, at the scene along with the 36-year-old Romanian driver. And a subsequent search revealed another three people, believed to be Iranian nationals, hiding nearby.
Surbjit Kaur In Memory of Surjit
Mission to End Honour Violence A woman who survived a planned honour killing by her mother-in-law is planning to raise awareness about the plight about victims. Sarbjit Arthwal, who exposed Bachan Athwal's murderous plan is now launching a series of coffee mornings to help victims of forced marriages, female genital mutilation (FGM) and • HONOUR: Surjit Kaur honour attacks. A grant of £500 has been given to her, by Hounslow Council, for her to begin the project, which she hopes she can start in September. Sarbjit's journey into helping honour victims started when her motherin-law found out her sisterin-law, Surjit, was having an affair. Drastic actions were • HONOUR: Sarbjit Kaur Athwal
taken. They took her to a family wedding in India, where her mother-in-law arranged for her to be drugged, strangled and thrown into a river. She was forced into silence. But the stress nearly killed her and she was rushed into hospital. Knowing she might die, she told her parents what had happened. Sarbjit worked with the police, finally becoming a key witness in the police investigation. Sarbjit’s mother-in-law and Surjit’s husband were arrested and sentenced to life in prison. The coffee mornings will be aimed at the older members of the Asian community to prevent youngsters being misguided, however, all are invited.
4
AUGUST 2015
OXFORD PRAISED FOR HINDU PAINTINGS
NEWS
WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM
Rescuer Saves 3-Month-Baby
Hero Explains How He Rescued From Burning Building
A
young man has been praised for running into a burning house to rescue a three-month-old baby. Aamir Nawaz had been outside his house in Bradford when he heard a scream coming from one of the nearby properties. A fire had started in a bedroom of the terrace house, home to a family of eight, and the 22-year-old, was alerted by the mother's screams of distress. Describing the rescue which took place late on Thursday night, Mr Nawaz said: "A friend had just dropped me off when I heard a lady screaming. "When I got into the house she said 'my baby is sleeping upstairs' so I had to go and save him. "I carried the baby out of the room. It felt like I had a new life. "The window was closed so there was a lot of smoke building up. I had a jumper on so I pulled it over my head to stop the smoke. I would have been overcome by the smoke if I had stayed there any
University’s Digital Portal Given Go-Ahead The University of Oxford has been praised for posting digital versions of 110 Kalighat paintings of Hindu deities and others from 19th-century Calcutta on its new online portal "Digital Bodleian". These include paintings of Hindu deities Krishna, Shiva, Ganesha, Durga, Hanuman, Parvati, Kali, etc., which were acquired by Sir Monier Monier-Williams in the winter of 1883-1884. Some of these paintings had cost one anna each at that time. Applauding Oxford University Bodleian Libraries for digitising images of Hindu deities and making them available to a wide variety of users from around the
"I carried the baby out of the room. It felt like I had a new life." •
HERO: Amir Nawaz rescued a 3-month year old baby from a burning house
world for learning, statesman Rajan Zed, said that art had a long and rich tradition in Hinduism and ancient Sanskrit literature talked about religious paintings of deities on wood or cloth. Rajan Zed, who is President of Universal
S
Society of Hinduism, urged major libraries of the world to make available the digitised versions of Hindu art from their collections on their online portals, thus sharing the rich Hindu art heritage with the rest of the world. Bodleian Libraries of
University of Oxford have over 11 million printed items, about 80,000 e-journals and vast quantities of materials in many other formats. University of Oxford, one of the top world universities, is the oldest university in the English-speaking world.
PERFUMES
Sama Perfumes presents the renowned perfumerist Rasasi Perfumes LLC. Rasasi is a family owned business with over 30 years of experience of producing exclusive, luxury and value for money fragrances, with something for everyone. In association with Rasasi, Sama perfumes are the official UK and EU stockist and authorised distributor bringing the whole range of rasasi au products to your doorstep. Based in Birmingham, Sama are centrally located offering a showroom where customers can sample the Rasasi range. The aim is to provide a local hub for Rasasi products in the UK and EU region offering customers competitively priced products, service and support. Customers can expect a quality service at competitive prices. Rasasi Perfumes enjoy an esteemed reputation in the middle and far east regions and with strong interest from the West, Sama perfumes mission is simply to make available genuine Rasasi products to the UK and EU markets
Authorised dealers and distributors of
Perfumes UK & EU
Tel: 0121 247 7001
longer. "When I was outside with the baby people were telling me 'well done' for what I did. The father said 'I don't know how I'll ever repay you'." Firefighters were speaking to families in the area yesterday to ensure they have fire safety measures in place. Aldene Woodward, watch commander at Fairweather Green, said of the severity of the blaze: "It was quite bad. The family has been displaced now. "The cause of the fire is being investigated by the fire investigation team and the police. "A significant amount of smoke spread around the house, it caused enough damage that the family wouldn't have been able to stay in the house. We called a Red Cross crisis team to help with the family. "We will be checking on all properties in that area, offering fire safety advice and making sure all homes have working smoke alarms."
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
NEWS
AUGUST 2015
11-Year-Old Takes on Gruelling 7 Mile Run for Charity
SECOND PHASE FOR WOMEN’S MOSQUE
Marathon Mission for Zakri A
n 11-year-old Birmingham boy has been praised for raising over £400 pounds for charity – all through completing his homework. As part of his secondary school homework Zakariya Pasha commenced on a 7 mile run in aid of local charity, Amirah
Foundation, an organisation which helps vulnerable women rebuild their lives after being the victim of domestic abuse, poverty and homelessness. It is also an organisation which his mother works for. The cheeky chap was given a number of challenges to complete by the time he started his new school in September which included a charity fundraise, writing up about a museum visit, a personal physical challenge and a newspaper book review. His target for his campaign is £1,000, a feat which he believes he will achieve. The Five Ways Grammar School pupil said he felt proud of his achievement. “Well, first of all, it was because my mother works there. It’s charity-funded which means they are not getting any money from the government. It makes me proud that I am giving money to them. It was part
things are important.” A m i r a h of my F o u n d a t i o n school director, Shaz Manir, said she found it homework. I really amazing how was thinking someone so young a b o u t could get involved doing some in the charity and in cupcakes for charity, in general. everyone but “This shows that my mom gave Amirah Foundation me the idea is working because about doing it is all about the 7-mile women and children run. At my • CHARITY: Zakariya Pasha raises over £400 and their positive previous future. At this age, school I had run 6 miles. This one was to think about domestic violence, I think, Zakariya much more tougher.” When asked whether he will make a good husband would consider taking the one day! He’ll go back to challenge again, he said, very school in September and adamantly, “Nope! I don’t discuss in front of his peers, want to go through this pain which means the message is again. I wish I had done the spreading. That’s 30-40 other boys.” cupcakes!” Despite its own struggles Mother Saima Pasha financial hardships said she was proud he was with physical pressure already thinking about these and issues. “I think it’s because with their small team, the Foundation has I speak about the Amirah Amirah Foundation at home a lot faith and passion on their and that we’re always relying side, faith and passion on funding, but I’m proud which have allowed them that he recognises that these to continue their work
Plans for a Muslim women’s mosque have been discussed at a public consultation hearing in Bradford. Motions were put forward by the Muslim Women’s Council (MWC) who is hoping to open the first “fully accessible” women’s mosque which would be managed by women for women. Bradford West MP, Naz Shah, disagreed with the proposal and said it didn’t fix the problem. “You need to empower the structures that are already there instead of just leaving them. That’s not fixing the issue. They say it’s going to be a safe space for women,” Shah said, “but I’m struggling to see what we’re going to achieve.” Chief of the Muslim Women’s Council, Bana Gora said the Bradford West MP should come and speak to the organisation. “If our local democratically elected members of parliament and local councillors are against this model of a female governance structure, then there are serious concerns as to how engaged they are with the local constituents who have elected them.”
since being established in 2011. Anyone wanting to sponsor Zakariya can do so by searching Zakri's 7 mile run for Amirah Foundation on JustGiving.com
Feature
TURN TO PAGE 32 TO READ THE INDEPENDENCE FEATURE
DID YOU KNOW?
August has the highest percentage of births? The Grand Canyon can hold around 900 trillion footballs? Honey is the only natural food which never goes off? Honey is the only natural food which never goes off? Sound travels almost 5 times faster underwater than in air?
Changes to household recycling and rubbish collections
Wheelie bins are coming to the following wards ■ Bartley Green
■ Bournville
■ Kings Norton
■ Northfield
■ Selly Oak
■ Billesley
■ Edgbaston
■ Longbridge
■ Quinton
■ Weoley
During August 2015, residents living in the above wards (except for those in flats or in houses of multiple occupation), will receive information through the post explaining changes to their recycling and rubbish collection services that begin this November. You will be given information on whether your property has been assessed as suitable or not for the new wheelie bin collection services.
This is important information, please read it. To find out more about the service visit birmingham.gov.uk/wheeliebins
5
6
TODDLER TRAGEDY INQUEST
A Birmingham father was forced to relive the traumatic moment he drove a truck into a wall which subsequently collapsed on his 17-month-son, crushing the toddler to death. Mohammed Yaseen, who went by Amaan, suffered disastrous head injuries caused by bricks falling on him, an inquest heard. The young boy was pronounced dead at the scene. Birmingham Coroner's Court heard his father Imran had been moving the truck from their home on Queens Road, Stechford, to another address on the same street. Imran said that despite pulling up the handbrake of the lorry, it had still rolled forward into the wall. He said he had not been aware at the time that any of his family had been close to the truck. He said: “I used the hand brake but it just rolled forward and hit the wall.
NEWS
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015
I was not aware beforehand that any of the family were going to be watching.” When asked by the coroner if he could have done anything different in order to avoid the tragedy, Imran said: “I could have been aware he was near by. I did not see him.” Police Constable Gurvinder Khosa confirmed that the accident had been caused by Imran. PC Khosa said: “It was driver error. As he was manoeuvring the vehicle he failed to appreciate it had a over hang which struck the wall.” Police Sergeant Adam Green said a possible prosecution had been considered and papers had been sent to the Crown Prosecution Service in relation to this. He said: “We recommended no further action be taken. It was not deemed to be in the public interest to pursue the matter any further.”
National Policy Forum Voting Opens
For more information about the NPF visit: www.yourbritain. org.uk
A
Labour Councillor has urged young people to get involved in local politics through a policy making forum. Cllr Mariam Khan of Birmingham’s Washwood Heath ward has said the National Policy Forum (NPF), which is now open for voting, is the best way to shape the Labour Party’s policies. Made up of representatives of all the main groups in the Labour Party from across the West Midlands, from CLPs- (Constituency Labour Parties) and regions to affiliated trade unions and socialist societies, a representative role Mariam hopes to be elected to herself.
“I decided to stand for NPF because I would like to play a role in representing the members of the West Midlands by listening to their policy ideas at a grassroots level and take them forward nationally. The procedure for the elections on to the NPF is simple. Candidates firstly need to be nominated from a number of different CLPs including the CLP that they live in. Once they have enough nominations, they are then confirmed to be on the ballot; the stage that Mariam has now reached. “Once you’re confirmed to be in the election, the ballot papers are sent to all the Labour Pa r t y
• NPF VOTING: Mariam Khan
members in the West Midlands for them to then vote for the candidates that they want to represent them on the NPF. The NPF ballot is being sent out with the ballot for Leader and Deputy Leader elections. The West Midlands region can elect 4 representatives and 1 youth representative. I’m standing as an ordinary representative- not a youth one. “I think that I should be elected because I’m really passionate about giving a voice to ordinary people and I think we shouldn’t shy away from having opinions on policy. It’s all good and well having an opinion, but we should ensure that our opinions are incorporated within policy changes.” But the challenge to become a NPF is no easy one as Mariam is currently a university student completing her Masters in Local Policy and Politics. “For now, I’m working on completing my Masters, running for NPF and I’m up for re-election in Washwood Heath in May.”
Local Councillor Up for Regional Election
AUGUST 2015
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
ADVERT
7
O ILER F TH A T
IC
Great value on all tiles inc.natural stone If you are looking for the latest design for your bathroom or en suite, a traditional style kitchen or a modern and contemporary design for your lounge, hallway or conservatory. Tile Choice can meet your every requirement at exceptional prices. BILSTON
WOLVERHAMPTON
01902 405526
01902 715482
7 Millfields Road Bilston Wolverhampton WV14 0QJ
WEST BROMWICH Units 3/4 Queens Court Trad. Est. Greets Green Rd. B70 9EG
0121 520 0600
Carvers Littles Lane Wolverhampton WV1 1JY
PERRY BARR
Unit D 75-97 Walsall Rd. Perry Barr B42 1TX
0121 344 3959
Open 7 Days a week
CANNOCK
WALSALL
Units 25-26 Longford Ind.Est. Longford Road WS11 0DG
Birchills House Birchills Ind. Est Green Lane WS2 8LE
BIRMINGHAM
BROMSGROVE
01543 469400
267 Bromford Lane Ward End Heartlands B8 2SG
0121 328 8938
01922 746666
Unit 8a Aston Fields Ind. Est. Sherwood Road B60 3DR
01527 882333
LICHFIELD
BURTON
KIDDERMINSTER
NORTHAMPTON
01562 825720
CE
L LE N
CE I N
IP LT MU
LE
50off
Derby Road Burton Upon Trent Staffordshire DE14 1RY
Unit 6 Easter Park Worcester Road Kidderminster DY11 7AR
-E X
UPTO
13 Titan Way Britannia Ent.Park Lichfield WS14 9TT
01543 264795
ET
E
R
O
FOLLOW US
AI
CH
LI N
TILE
G
AR YE
TILE R
E
E
THE LARGEST SELECTION OF WALL & FLOOR TILES THROUGHOUT THE UK
01283 567574
Unit 20 Saddleback Road Westgate Ind.Est NN5 5HL
01604 582112
%
DERBY
Unit 2/3 Ascot Drive Osmaston Park Industrial Estate DE24 8ST
01332 784556 KETTERING
4 Linnell Way Telford Way Ind.Est Kettering NN16 8PS
01536 511881
SHREWSBURY
Unit B&C Arrow Point Retail Park Brixton Way SY1 3GB
01743 464565
CORBY
Unit 3 Cronin Rd Weldon South Industrial Estate NN18 8AQ
01536 403337
www.tilechoice.co.uk
8
AUGUST 2015
PICTURE OF THE MONTH
NEWS
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AXED
NEIGHBOURHOOD OFFICERS TO BE •
Over 60,000 Muslims gathered in Small Heath park - Birmingham, to celebrate Eid ul Fitr (a celebration to mark the end of ramadhan).
AXED: West Midlands Chief Constable Chris Sims has admitted PCSOs will be hit
Local Policing Takes a Hit with Lower Budget
A
review of neighbourhood policing is underway as part of the West Midlands Police WMP2020 change programme which will see ‘significant cuts’ to neighbourhood policing. The neighbourhood review will look at how local policing will work from 2020 and beyond against a continued backdrop of financial austerity – whilst trying to save £120 million. The force has to make anticipated savings of £130m over the next five
years. With over 80 per cent of operating costs coming from pay budgets the force is facing further workforce reductions in the region of 2,500 over the next five years - making the organisation smaller than when it was formed in 1974. The final financial budget is due in the autumn but planning is advanced through the WMP2020 programme. Chief Constable Chris Sims said: “By 2020 WMP will have reduced by almost 45 per cent over a decade.
I am confident though that policing will continue to protect the public but how services may look and be delivered will have to alter - both to respond to the financial challenges we are facing and to new and growing threats like child sexual exploitation and online crime." An early phase of the WMP2020 work stream, due to report back in October, is looking at how calls will be responded to and investigated and how neighbourhood policing will continue to be delivered. A key feature of this will include the role of police community support officers (PCSOs). For the force to be able to continue to protect the public from 2020 there will need to be a critical mass of warranted police officers to deal with the full range of policing challenges across the West Midlands.
At the same time there will be a limit as to how far critical areas of policing such as call handling and forensics managed by police staff can be reduced without impacting on safety or the ability to investigate crimes. As a result of these pressures PCSO numbers could reduce at a faster rate than the reductions in officers and other police staff over the next five years. This is the first time the force has carried out a wholesale review of PCSOs in terms of their role, numbers and deployment since their inception - unlike other areas of the force. Chief Constable Chris Sims said: “The WMP2020 Blueprint is about building an effective and affordable force for the year 2020.
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
ADVERT
IRMINGHAM THE
AWARDS
BEATING
HEART
OF
BIRMINGHAM
#BCreative #BProud #BInspired #BVibrant #BCourageous
#BBrum
27th November 2015 @ The Edgbaston Stadium - Birmingham
#savethedate
For nominations, sponsorship details & more information, please visit: www.birminghamawards.co.uk
scan me to nominate
T: 0121 314 4821 E:info@birminghamawards.co.uk Tickets available on
/BirminghamAwards
@BirminghamAward
SUPPORTED BY
AUGUST 2015
9
10
World Record! NEWS
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015
• PENNY APPEAL: Two celebrities including Amir Khan attend The World Record broken by Penny Appeal
Charity broadcasts live on TV for over 11 day’s non-stop
Wakefield-based humanitarian charity Penny Appeal has achieved a new Guinness World Records title for the longest live charity TV broadcast by staying on air for a staggering 11 days, 11 hours and 11 minutes. The record was achieved at 4.11am on Tuesday 14th July at the British Muslim TV studios in Wakefield. As Britain’s ‘most generous givers’,
people of Islamic faith make up a large proportion of Penny Appeal’s donor base, so the record attempt took place during Ramadan, a blessed month in the Islamic calendar. The challenge started at 5pm on Thursday 2nd July, and every second of live appeal broadcasting was used to highlight Penny Appeal’s work in over 30 crisis-hit countries worldwide.
Teenager’s Alzheimer’s Breakthrough
• ALZHEIMER:
Krtin Nithiyanandam has developed a 'trojan horse' antibody
15-year-old’s Test Could Help Future Diagnoses CONTACT US TODAY FOR A
FREE QUOTATION
MANUFACTURES & INSTALLERS OF: ✓ UPVC WINDOWS
A
Presenters were joined by special guests, including renowned scholars such as Dr Reda Bedeir, champion boxer Amir Khan and Hollywood actor Omar Regan, plus there were daily live links to Sheikh Babikir in Makkah. Adeem Younis, Penny Appeal Chair of Trustees, said, “We’re absolutely delighted to set this new record, which not only demonstrates our commitment
teenager has helped develop a test which could allow Alzheimer’s to be diagnosed with the condition ten years before symptoms appear. 15-year-old Krtin Nithiyanandam has developed a ‘trojan horse’ antibody which can penetrate the brain and attach to neurotoxic proteins which are present in the very first stages of the disease. The antibodies, which would be injected into the bloodstream are also attached to fluorescent particles which can then be picked up on a brain scan. His idea had been submitted to the Google Science Fair Prize, in which he has made it to the final.
to tackling poverty, but the generosity of all our donors too. “We took on this challenge with the aim of helping as many people as possible and it’s been wonderful to have so much support for our life-saving work. “The money raised will go on to feed the poor, build wells, sponsor orphans, deliver emergency aid and much more.”
“The main benefits of my test are that it could be used to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease before symptoms start to show by focusing on pathophysiological changes, some of which can occur a decade before symptoms are prevalent,” Krtin said. “This early diagnosis could help families prepare for the future and ensure that existing drugs are used to better effect. “Another benefit is that due to the conjugated fluorescent nanoparticles, my diagnostic-probe can be used to image Alzheimer’s disease noninvasively. “Winning the Google Science Fair would be
BOB’S GLAZING
truly life changing, I can’t even begin to put into words what that would be like,” he added.” “It would be more than a dream come true, and it would also encourage me to pursue my interests in science, and hopefully one day, to change the world.” Andrea Cohan, Google Science Fair’s marketing lead, said that young people often had the creative ability to solve some of the world’s greatest challenges. Kritin joins four other British hopefuls. “We want to support and foster the next generation of scientists and engineers. The UK has once again proven itself as a hotbed of science creation.”
UNIT E: 99 SPRING ROAD TYSELEY BIRMINGHAM B11 3DJ
LTD
*terms and conditions apply
✓ CONSERVATORIES / PORCHES ✓ PATIO DOORS / FRENCH DOORS ✓ COMPOSITE DOORS ✓ BI-FOLDING DOORS ✓ SEALED UNITS
30%
DISCOUNT* subject to availability
TEL: 0121 707 9611 • MOBILE: 07791 525 085
EMAIL: BOBSGLAZING@BTCONNECT.COM
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
ADVERTORIAL
AUGUST 2015
Edgbaston Stadium Edgbaston Stadium are proud to have provided a wedding venue for over 100 weddings since the new Pavilion Stand opened in July 2010 Edgbaston Stadium – the Country Ground is steeped in cricketing history and plays a huge part in the local community. The Stadium is also famous for the amazing atmosphere on international match days and we are looking forward to hosting the Pakistan Test in 2016. Cricket is a massive part of everyday life at Edgbaston Stadium and we also have a thriving Wedding and Conference business. The Stadium offers modern, bright and accessible rooms all with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the iconic
pitch, making a perfect back drop for your wedding photos. We offer self-catered packages for up to 650 guests as well as ample onsite car parking and easy transport routes.
To arrange a site visit, please contact our dedicated Weddings Coordinator Navneet Mangat on 0121 446 3632 or email navneetmangat@edgbaston.com
Special offer A S I A N W E D D I N G S AT E D G B A S TO N S TA D I U M , THE COUNTY GROUND
Prices from ÂŁ2800 inc VAT* Selected dates for the rest of 2015 TO START YOUR STORY... Call us: +44 (0) 121 446 3632 Email us: navneetmangat@edgbaston.com Visit: edgbastonstadium.com/asian-weddings *Minimum of 100 guests
11
12
AUGUST 2015
ADVERT
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
WWW.BIGJOHNSBIRMINGHAMMELA.COM
16th August 2015 Cannon Hill Park Free family event with Live Music and Entertainment IN ASSOCIATION WITH
We are looking forward to seeing you all there! PRESENTED BY BBC radio Asian network’s TOMMY SANDhU & NOREEN KHAN
LIVE MUSIC
ASIAN BAZAAR
FUNFAIR RIDES
FOOD COURT
SPORTS ACTIVITIES
FASHION SHOW
MISS POOJA
Asif khan | RAJA KAASHEFF | RUBAYYAT | roach killa | JAY STATUS | SHIDE BOSS | hunterz | BILAL | JAY KADN
LIMITED STALLS AVAILABLE
ENQUIRIES CALL 07530 612 171 or go to www.bigjohnsbirminghammela.com OFFICIAL PARTNERS
OFFICIAL SPONSORS
SUPPORTED BY
EVENT ORGANISER
07763 324 145
PHONES TRADER SENTENCED TO 16 WEEKS A Birmingham business owner who sold unsafe mobile phone chargers as well as counterfeit goods has been sentenced to 16 weeks’ imprisonment at Birmingham
Magistrates Court. Mohammed Ibrar, 45, trading as Bling Bling Phones, based at Alum Rock Road, Alum Rock, pleaded guilty to nine offences at an
earlier hearing 11 June 2015 – five of selling phone chargers which failed to comply with the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994 and four of selling counterfeit
'Lives Not Knives' Knife Surrender Bin Launched at
Green Lane Mosque
F
ollowing the continued development of the Communities Working Together initiative and the launch of a New Knife Surrender Bin in Handsworth, a further New Knife Surrender Bin has been unveiled. The bin, outside Small Heath’s Green Lane Masjid marks a total of 9 in Birmingham and 11 in the West Midlands to date.
AUGUST 2015
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
NEWS
Community Activist Desmond Jaddoo of Birmingham Empowerment Forum who arranged for the new Knife Surrender Bin says: “This is just continuing the “Live not Knives” initiative with all communities working together and taking responsibility for making our streets safer for our neighbours, families especially our children in the ever changing face of Birmingham.”
mobile phones cases bearing Apple and Porsche logos. Ibrar, who was jailed for separate offences relating to the handling of stolen goods on 26 June 2015, was sentenced to 16 weeks for each of the nine offences, which will be served
• LIVES: Shabana Mahmood and Yvonne Mosquito unveil the knife surrender bin
Amer Ijaz Centre Manager said, “Green Lane Masjid and Community Centre believes that it is for each of us to take responsibility for the society in which we live. It is with this in mind that we have joined forces with the Birmingham Empowerment Forum on the Live not Knives project. This initiative will empower individuals and groups to break out of a cycle of violent crime by joining this knife surrender in a trusted location. God willing, such initiatives will pave the way for a new start for those previously involved in crime and will make our communities a safer place for everybody.” Deputy Police & Crime Commissioner Yvonne Mosquito added, “One life taken by the use of a knife
ESTABLISHED SINCE 1975
Slip into a Bansals bath and let us inspire, design and transform a room into your ideal bathroom sanctuary
Mon - Fri: 9am - 6pm Sat: 9am - 5pm Sun: Closed
is one life too many. This is a community-led project in which local people have taken a big step to get knives off our streets. For this knife surrender campaign to succeed we all need to encourage the whole community to get behind it and once and for all say no to violence. I fully support this initiative and would like to thank all those who have worked so hard to bring this about.” Detective Inspector Nick Dale, West Midlands Police’s lead for knife crime, concluded, “Knife crime continues to fall in the West Midlands despite a slight increase nationally. However, people’s lives are still affected by knife crime every day so we cannot afford to be complacent. Community initiatives like this are extremely important in the fight against knife crime.”
CHANCELLOR LAUNCHES CREMATORIUM REVIEW The Chancellor has launched a review into crematorium facilities at to ensure that they are appropriate to the needs of all users and faiths. This follows representations to the Chancellor from British Hindus and Sikhs, who are concerned that current facilities are often too small, and not equipped to meet their needs. The Government wants to know more about these issues and what steps can be taken to improve existing facilities in line with current law. Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne said, “This is a Budget that delivers for British Hindus and Sikhs: backing business, supporting aspiration and standing behind families that work hard. “Over the past year a number of British Hindus and Sikhs have also raised with me their concerns about cremation facilities for their communities. They’ve told me that often the facilities are not large enough for everyone from the community to pay their respects and don’t always pay enough regard to cultural sensitivities.
WITH 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN THE RETAIL INDUSTRY YOU CAN TRUST OUR FAMILY RUN BUSINESS AND TEAM OF EXPERTS TO CONTINUE DELIVERING BEAUTIFUL AND TIMELESS BATHROOMS. SATISFYING CUSTOMERS DECADE AFTER DECADE
INSPIRE
0121 328 8182 669 - 709 Alum Rock Road Birmingham B8 3JA
concurrently to his existing sentence. The court also made an order for the forfeiture and destruction of all the goods seized during Trading Standards’ inspection on 24 April 2014.
DESIGN
13
I N S TA L L
COMPLETE DESIGN & INSTALLATION SERVICE AVAILABLE FREE DELIVERY
Visit our extensive modernised showroom in the Midlands 1000’s of quality products at affordable prices
14
Sport
KEEP UPTO DATE WITH THE LATEST SPORTS ON OUR WEBSITE
MOEEN ALI AND THE CHANCE TO
SHINE TURN TO PAGE 71 TO READ THE FULL STORY
TASTY TREATS FOR PATIENTS • MYL: Members of the Muslim Youth League UK with hospital staff
Youth League’s Special Visit to Hospital Members of the Muslim Youth League have paid a special visit to the children’s ward at the Calderdale Royal Hospital, whilst bearing gifts. They arrived with cupcakes for staff, patients
NEWS
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015
and families of patients to enjoy. The project was organised to allow members of the group do something special for someone else and show an act of kindness.
Post mortem reveals extensive head injuries
Khaleel Hussain A Coventry man has been jailed for the murder of a two-year-old boy after he inflicted severe head injuries which led to the toddler’s death. Keith Brown, of Swan Lane, Stoke, was found guilty of killing Khaleel Hussain in October last year. Khaleel’s mother Samina Kauser was found guilty of allowing the death of a child by failing to take steps she could reasonably have been expected to take to protect him. Throughout the police investigation and six week trial at Leamington Crown Court, Brown, aged 23, denied any involvement. But, the jury took just 10 hours and 12 minutes to bring a unanimous guilty verdict. He has been sentenced to life to serve a minimum of 15 years. Kauser was given a three year sentence. On 21 October 2013, Khaleel - two months shy of his third birthday was left at his Richmond Street home in Stoke with Brown after 25-yearold Kauser went out
Murder • MURDERED: Khaleel Hussain was murdered in 2013 shopping. Kauser had been in an on-off relationship with Brown since early 2011. The court heard how, a week before his death, Khaleel had been smothered with a duvet by Brown after he was whinging at bedtime. Kauser challenged Brown and told him to leave her
son alone. Prosecuting, Mr Hankin QC said that Kauser knew from Khaleel’s long and subdued silence after Brown had left the room that he had been harmed. The court heard how, from phone records, Brown had called Kauser while she was walking home from
Mother and Boyfriend Jailed T
he University of Birmingham have said they are not accepting offers on the recently found Quran manuscript. Talking exclusively to The Asian Today, Professor David Thomas said the university would be keeping the discovery in Birmingham. “The radiocarbon dating of the Birmingham Qur’an folios has yielded a startling result and reveals one of the most surprising secrets of the University’s collections. They could well take us back to within a few years of the actual founding of Islam. Yes, we are keeping the manuscript in Birmingham.” The discovery had been made by a PHD student clearing shelves and has been placed among the oldest in the world thanks to modern scientific methods. Radiocarbon analysis has dated the parchment on which the text is written to the period
Quran Manuscript University ‘Will Stay in Confirms They Are Birmingham’ NOT Accepting Offers
The manuscript will be on public display at University of Birmingham from 2nd Oct - 25th Oct 2015
shopping. Minutes later Kauser dialed 999 for an ambulance claiming her son had fallen down stairs. When paramedics arrived, they described Brown as "blasé" and "calm" and showing no emotion. Following examination by medics, it was found that Khaleel had a significant head injury. He was taken to hospital before being transferred to the Children’s Hospital in Birmingham; he died the next day. A post mortem on Khaleel revealed he died as a result of a head injury and a subsequent report concluded that the boy’s injuries were not as a result of falling down stairs. The pathologist’s examination also revealed an injury where Khaleel had his airway and breathing restricted for a period of time which had caused bleeding into his lungs and had probably occurred one to two weeks earlier.
• Samina Kauser (left) & Keith Brown
between AD 568 and 645 with 95.4% accuracy. The test was carried out in a laboratory at the University of Oxford. The result places the leaves close to the time of the Prophet Muhammad, who is generally thought to have lived between AD 570 and 632. Researchers concluded that the Qur’an manuscript is among the earliest writtentextual evidence of the Islamic holy book known to survive. The Qur’an manuscript is part of the University’s Mingana Collection of Middle Eastern manuscripts, held in the Cadbury Research Library. Funded by Quaker philanthropist Edward Cadbury, the collection was acquired to raise the status of Birmingham as an intellectual centre for religious studies and attract prominent theological scholars. Consisting of two parchment leaves, the Qur’an manuscript is believed to contain parts of Suras (chapters) 18 to 20, written with ink in an early form of Arabic script known as Hijazi.
YOUR MONTHLY SHOWBIZ FIX!
GOSSIP • INTERVIEWS • MUSIC • MOVIES - & MUCH MORE! TURN TO PAGES 47-53
ADVERT
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015
15
16
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015
Established for over 10 years, Dipyum Cakes is known for producing the finest eggless cakes, Asian wedding cakes and egg-free cakes. Produced from fresh cream and chocolate gateaux, customers have the option to choose from plain, fruit or chocolate sponge. Dietary needs are also taken care off as Dipyum specialises in diary, gluten and wheat free, on request. Having recently moved into a larger premise, the organisation has invested great deal in a new unit, giving
customers a much rich and vibrant experiences – which includes a new showroom, a restaurant and the use of the latest technology in the baking industry. Dipyum makes cakes that are unique and different that will attract attention and act as the centre-piece to any celebration. All cakes are handmade from scratch and made to order. For a truly original and delectable celebration, cakes are always exquisitely designed and decorated with a perfect touch. Our professional
ADVERTORIAL
cake makers can design and hand make an infinite number of designs to suit any type of occasion you require. These include, wedding, birthdays, celebration, traditional and chocolate cakes. At Dipyum’s, we believe cakes should be special and unique.
Wedding Cakes • Birthday Cakes • Celebration Cakes • Traditional Cakes • Chocolate Cakes
WINNERS OF SPECIALIST CAKE DESIGNER AWARD 2009
A Taste of Purity
w: www.dipyumcakes.co.uk e: info@dipyumcakes.co.uk t: 0121 772 4505
m: 07956 141 882
Deepalis Restaurant in Birmingham was opened by Mrs Deepali Kenth as an addition to her professional cake making business. Deepalis Restaurant is synonymous with the delights of the finest Indian vegetarian cuisine.
Dipyum Cakes have been established for over 10 years and we are known for producing we are known for producing the finest Eggless Cakes.
1A Alfred Road • Birmingham • B11 4PB
ADVERT
AUGUST 2015
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
Decisions, decisions. Be spoilt for choice with Mercedes-Benz. Mercedes-Benz Birmingham Central is your one-stop-shop for all your motoring needs. With an unrivalled variety of new and Approved Used models, and a fantastic breadth of finance options, there’s only one thing which comes as standard: the quality of service from Mercedes-Benz. We not only offer the very best models at the best prices, we also ensure that every step from enquiry to delivery is a smooth one, thanks to the following services: • After Sales with servicing and Cosmetic Repair facilities • Only GenuineParts® used, which come with a 2-year unlimited mileage warranty • A showroom displaying both smart and Mercedes-Benz vehicles • Expertly trained staff who always go the extra mile to ensure you are happy with your vehicle Come visit our stand for more information.
Birmingham Central
Mercedes-Benz Birmingham Central Lawley Middleway, Birmingham B4 7XH 0121 766 1600 www.mercedes-benzbirminghamcentral.co.uk
17
18
NEWS
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015
JAS SANSI The Thinking Man's Mouthpiece Feature #AT200 PARTY THE ASIAN TODAY CELEBRATES IT'S 200TH ISSUE AT ARABIAN NITES
TURN TO PAGES 36 - 37
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.
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported recently UK productivity is the poor cousin in an economy where Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Employment is on the rise. Investment in skills is required to get us up to the productivity levels our continental neighbours enjoy. Productivity is important because it defines living standards but remains a difficult concept to grasp. Productivity is defined as the rate of output per unit of input. This definition doesn't make a great deal of sense to me. Let me try and explain what I think it means in the real world using real world examples. Over the past couple of weeks, the summer break has allowed a little time to do some shopping. The experience illustrates what the ONS sets out. I went to buy my son's school uniform for the new school year. He tried on a number of items, the shop assistant was very helpful. I paid and we left. When I got home, one of the packaged shirts was short sleeve rather than the long sleeve ones required. This entailed an unproductive trip back. My wife purchased a steam cleaner. Got home and the plug pins were damaged. This entailed an unproductive trip back. I was in a major supermarket today where the checkout person charged me for four bottles of lemonade, I'd only bought three. This entailed an unproductive wait at customer services as the checkout till is unable to process a simple refund. I was in another branch of the
same supermarket, buying a pair of pyjamas, I got home and discovered the security tag was still attached. Another unproductive trip back. These incidents were over a period of no more than ten days. I can't be the only one this happens to. Please tell me there isn't a grey retail cloud hovering over my head. Retail has to raise it's game. Online shopping is growing at an annual rate of 18% and the bricks and mortar retail experience has to address this. Failure to invest in training and skills, one of the key recommendations in the ONS report will simply turn shoppers away from the high street and towards the internet. Individuals have to manage their training if employers are unable or unwilling to do so. The ONS findings should embarrass employers to act. Ask your line manager about opportunities to develop. Don't take no for an answer. If you're self employed, ask yourself, what can I do to become the new version of me. Whether you're an employee or the boss, seek out a mentor, someone you respect. Ask them for advice. They may not be able to help but that shouldn't stop you asking. Investing in yourself is the greatest investment you can make. A UK wide report about low productivity is an abstract concept. Productivity improvements begin with you. Take the first step today in addressing how you can develop your knowledge and improve your skills. Now where's that manual for my new camera?
Jas Sansi P H O T O G R A P H Y Follow me on Twitter: @Jassansi
Mr Zafar Ali. Nobody has ever spoken about him. He is a father who has lost two sons. The emphasis is on me because I said something good in the beginning. What about the young kid that was born after his father died? Shahzad’s son. His mother is bringing him on his own. Continued from Front Page give all those back just to get justice. Tariq Jahan had been commended It is not right. People focus on me, for stopping revenge attacks in the but what about the other family? Mr Winson Green area hours after his Zafar Ali. Nobody has ever spoken son died. “Black, white, Asians – we about him. He is a father who has all live in the same community … lost two sons. The emphasis is on me step forward if you want to lose your because I said something good in the son. Otherwise, calm down and go beginning. What about the young home – please.” His words travelled kid that was born after his father the world as politicians, religious died? Shahzad’s son. His mother is and community leaders heaped bringing him on his own. That family praised on him. had two working sons. They have no However, four years later, the support now. Their father wants to feeling of betrayal lingers inside know if he will see justice before he of him. Mr Jahan said dies. he watched as his son’s “If we get a public The bottom murderers walked inquiry I want answers. I free but said he would want accountability. In the line is that continue the fight for sense that who made the if this was justice. “As time goes on, mistakes? to happen people tend to forget. “During the trial we “When my son died, I said felt like bystanders. We again would to the press, ‘A day from watched the CPS make you expect now, maybe two days mistakes. I had to watch their parents from now, the whole world video footage of my son to come will forget and nobody being hit 12 times. They will care,’” For me, it is were hit at 67mph. out and say trying to keep the story The 49-year-old recently that they alive. It is about getting met with Prince William have faith in to the bottom of this and who gave him his backing getting some justice and of setting up a public the justice some accountability. inquiry into the incident. system? “August marks four “After meeting Prince years. For a parent, it is William, I do believe he will easy. You keep fighting for your child. back my case. Four years after the Three men were killed on the streets incident and the momentum is really of Birmingham. All the evidence was slow. We have to keep banging doors there. But because of a catalogue of and keep waking people up to tell errors by West Midlands Police and them. We won’t put this to rest until their CPS, on a high profile case like we get accountability. this, you get no justice. “At the time, the CPS was charging “I've lost faith in the justice those eight men with just murder. system. My idea was that keep calm, That did not make any sense to me. we have a justice system. We will get How do you charge eight men when justice and accountability. So many there was only one person driving? errors were made in this case, so You cannot convince the jury of much needs to come out. that. At the end, when they were “I have a stack of awards; I would acquitted, the CPS did not make a
GHULAM MURTAZA – LOCAL BUSINESS OWNER The area is all right now. Tensions are not high with the community atmosphere being calm because people are just trying to get on with their lives. Looking back, it is hard to process because those boys grew
up in this area. People knew of them because of the popularity of their gym – the police, the community and Tariq Jahan – we are not going to just forget what happened that night. We deserve justice.
SHABANA MAHMOOD – (MP FOR LADYWOOD) Tariq Jahan saved the city that night. His son died in his arms and he asked for calm. Many would have asked for revenge but he did not. Tariq and the families deserve justice. The only way that we can get that is with a full inquiry into what happened and why the court case failed. Four years
after the brutal murder of his son, Mr Jahan has quite understandably lost faith in the justice system. His son was killed in plain view. Eight men were prosecuted but none were convicted in a trial which almost collapsed because of issues with the police investigation.
• JUSTICE: Tariq Jahan (right) with the family of Shahzad Ali and Abdul Musavir
statement.” “The bottom line is that if this was to happen again would you expect their parents to come out and say that they have faith in the justice system?”
SPECIAL THE ASIAN TODAY IS BACKING THE PUBLIC INQUIRY INTO THE MURDER OF HAROON JAHAN, SHAZAD ALI AND ABDUL MUSAVIR. TO ADD YOUR NAME TO THE PETITION VISIT WWW.TARIQJAHAN.COM
ADVERT
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
frills Unit 4, Lichfield Road Business Park. 171, Lichfield Road, Birmingham. B65SN T. 0121 326 6422
AUGUST 2015
19
20
AUGUST 2015
NEWS
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
Raksha Bandhan
Campaign aims to combat online radicalisation
The Thread of Love
SATURDAY 29TH AUGUST 2015 In India, festivals are the blessings. In turn, celebration of togetherness, brothers also of being one of the family. wish her a good Raksha Bandhan is one such life and pledges festival that is all about to take care of affection, fraternity and her. He gives her sublime sentiments. It is a return gift. The known as Raksha Bandhan, gift symbolises because it means a 'bond the physical of protection'. This is an acceptance of for those occasion to flourish love, her love, reminder of their who depend on the sea and care, affection and sacred togetherness and his pledge. monsoon, it is the beginning feeling of brotherhood. Raksha bandhan has been of the new season. Raksha Bandhan is a celebrated in the same way Indian festivals are based regional celebration to with the same traditions for on the weather changes celebrate the sacred relation many years and their significance in the between brothers and The Shravana or the lives of people but they do sisters. Primarily, this festival monsoon month carries all have a story to support the belongs to north and western hues and shades of nature celebrations. region of India, however, the and emotions. Religiously Generally, the fancy celebration has spread across speaking Shravan is a pious Rakhis and delicious sweets the world, with the same verse month and full moon of are prepared long before and spirit. Rakhi has become this all-important month the Shravana Purnima. an integral part of the Indian is considered to be a very According to the Indian calendar. tradition, On the the family day of Rakhi, members For the siblings it is the eternal tie of love, s i s t e r s get ready for prepare the the rituals for Brahmins the day to take the pledge of pooja thali early in the Brahmanik rites and for those who depend with diya, morning. c h a w a l , on the sea and monsoon, it is the beginning They take rakhi thread a bath to of the new season. and sweets. purify mind The ritual and body begins with b e f o r e a prayer in front of God, and holy day. It is celebrated in starting any preparations. then the sister ties a Rakhi different ways for different Sisters prepare the puja to her brother and wishes reasons almost throughout thali which consists of roli, for his happiness and wellthe country. tilak, Rakhi threads, rice being. In turn, the brother For the siblings it is grains, aggarbattis (incense acknowledges the love with a the eternal tie of love, for sticks), diyas and sweets. promise to stand by his sister Brahmins the day to take the After offering the rituals to through all the good and bad pledge of Brahmanik rites the deities of the family, the times. and for those who depend on sister perform aarti of their Sisters tie Rakhi on the the sea and monsoon, it is the brothers and ties Rakhi on wrist of their brothers amid beginning of the new season. their wrist. Then, they put chanting of mantras, put roli For the siblings it is kumkum powder on the and rice on his forehead and the eternal tie of love, for forehead of their brother and pray for his well-being. She Brahmins the day to take the offer sweets. bestows him with gifts and pledge of Brahmanik rites and
#MessageToISIS
T
he Active Change Foundation (ACF), a London (UK) based youth organisation, has launched a new social media campaign to stand strong and united against terrorism following the recent attacks in Tunisia, France and Kuwait. ACF has created the hashtag #MessageToISIS and called on the many millions around the world who despise what ISIS has been doing to join the campaign. ACF had global success with their previous campaign in 2014 when #NotInMyName became a worldwide viral phenomenon. The hope is that this new campaign will be just as
influential and send a direct message to ISIS saying that everything they stand for is wrong, that they are killers while we celebrate life and that trying to wear us down or scare us will only make us stronger. There are many ways in which people can join the campaign or show their support – they can write a poem, take a selfie, film a video, retweet others’ content – what matters is that every single person who gets involved becomes part of an enormous shield, pushing back against ISIS to send a message using the hashtag #MessageToISIS. To launch #MessageToISIS ACF have produced a video which can be viewed on its
YouTube channel: https:// youtu.be/QYBUtb0NU9o and the official campaign statement on its blog: h t t p : / / a c f- y o u n g- l e a d e r s programme.tumblr.com In launching the new campaign Hanif Qadir, founder of Active Change Foundation, said, “No longer can we stand by letting these animals hijack our faith and it is time for all of us to speak out. Let's all come together to send a strong #MessageToISIS a n d show them that they will be defeated.”
• ACF: Youth
organisation launches new social media capaign
ROOF REPAIR (ALL ASPECTS OF ROOF REPAIR)
• U.P.V.C Guttering, Facia & Soffits • Slates, Tiles, Ridges & Valleys etc • Chimneys Re-Pointed, Capped & Crowned
FRee QUoTaTion WoRk GURanTeed
ConTaCT RiCHaRd Today: T: 0121 649 1627 M: 07837 439 163 e: rooferrichard@mail.com 25 ROSLYN CLOSE | BIRMINGHAM | WEST MIDLANDS | B66 3AR
M
eet Mr. Mango, the owner of the U.K’s first ever online Asian grocery store www.mangodelivery.co.uk. Mr. Mango setup the business to ensure local businesses continue to exist, a service vital for the local community, by sourcing fresh produce through such network of local businesses and delivering them to the end customer at local prices. The other important factor in setting up Mango Delivery is to ensure that only 100% HMC approved meat is supplied to customers who have strict dietary requirements, which is not available from main supermarkets. Mango Delivery a fresh new business, newly launched and is an online grocery store, providing fresh Asian groceries to consumers initially in Birmingham postcodes for everyday consumption, parties, weddings, special occasions and religious festivals. So if you are too
AUGUST 2015
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
ADVERTORIAL
busy at work and don’t have time to shop for your groceries then Mango is for you, a parent tired of dragging reluctant children to the supermarket to do your shopping? Mango is for you! Or are you caring for elderly parents who need groceries, live further away from local Asian grocery stores, always struggling to find a parking slot, want to relax and spend quality time with your family or just want to avoid impulse buying then Mango Delivery is most definitely for you! The groceries range from lentils, spices, rice, flour, dairy products, frozen food, fresh fruits & vegetables and HMC approved meat. The “Mango Mission” is to provide consumers an exceptional value while saving time and eliminating the stress of shopping and all with an Asian approach to life, so understanding your needs and wants. Mango Delivery recognises that
consumers want groceries regularly, fresh and at local prices with free delivery. “We have built our business model which offers an alternative choice to the larger supermarkets, by offering a sensibly low minimum order limit (lower than anyone else) and free delivery, allowing consumers to enjoy fresh produce and delivered when they need it. All our customers are invited to test out our service and quality offerings by spending as low as £10.” said Mr Mango. With the major supermarkets having a minimum order limit increased from £25 to £40 and incurring other surcharges, (as well as a poor Asian range of produce) … it is easy to see how Mango Delivery can fill a gaping hole with a superior range of product for its particular market. The company is constantly
introducing newer products. One example of this is the recent launch of a new brand ‘Mango Occasions’ to provide tailored gift baskets for all occasions. “We aim to offer a one-stop shopping experience delivered to your door step. You won’t have to go to a
party or an occasion empty handed, order those much needed gifts while you shop online for your groceries.” Mr Mango explained. The company has ambitious plans in the pipeline. By the end of
the 2015, Mango Delivery will be launching an astonishing new 4 hour delivery service from the time of order. Understanding the cultural values the Asian communities hold, is essential (and also experienced by its Asian owner!) With unplanned arrival of guests at short notice being the norm and as tradition goes such communities don’t let their guests leave without offering them food. Equally, running out of ingredients for lunch or evening meals can be annoying. Although a small delivery charge will be levied, the 4 hour service will help many families who find themselves in such situations. To order your fresh groceries, visit www. mangodelivery.co.uk and claim a 10% discount by quoting discount code “MDAT082015”.
www.mangodelivery.co.uk Birmingham’s First Online Asian Grocery Store fb.com/mangodelivery
MINIMU ORDERM
DE
Proudly supporting:
mango_delivery
£10
FRLIVEEE RY FREE Delivery Delivery times 7am - 11pm (2 hourly slots) 7 days a week
@mango_delivery
10% DISCOUNT
ON YOUR FIRST ORDER ENTER THE CODE MDAT082015
£10 - Minimum Order Test out our service and quality offerings. In Partnership with:
21
22
NEWS
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015 • Protesters Outside Birmingham City Council Photography by: SM Irfan Tahi
Waheed Saleem Steps Down Four Months After Appointed
Chair of Educational Trust Resigns Amid intense scrutiny from inspectors, the public and government organisations, the chair of a trust, linked to the Trojan Horse scandal has stepped down. The move comes after certain media coverage unnecessarily brought to the forefront about a past public position.
ROHINGYA GENOCIDE
MUST STOP!
Birmingham Councillors Step Up for Burma Over 100 Councillors from Birmingham have signed a letter asking the Foreign Secretary to intervene in the Burma crisis. Led by Cllr Mariam Khan of Labour, the letter has called on the Government to speak to the United Nation’s Security Council about stopping the persecution of the Muslim Rohingya people of Burma. The Rohingya people have been described as “one of the world’s most persecuted minorities” and are being denied basic citizenship in Burma, have been herded into ghettos. Many are now fleeing the persecution by Burma after mass graves were found alongside the border.
Coun Khan said, “I am pleased that 101 Birmingham City Councillors, including the three party leaders, signed and supported my letter to the Foreign Secretary highlighting the genocide in Rohingya people in Burma. “This genocide must stop and our Government should be taking a lead at the United Nations Security Council to call for an end to ethnic cleansing of the innocent Rohingya people. “As someone who is passionate about human rights, it is important for me to highlight this atrocity especially as we mark the 20th anniversary of the genocide in Srebrinica.”
Men Arrested on Suspicion of Distributing Terrorist Material
Two men, arrested on suspicion of distributing a terrorist publication have been released on police bail. The pair, both aged 18, were detained at their home addresses in the Alum Rock and Washwood Heath areas at around 7am. They were bailed at around
6.30pm on strict conditions, which included to live and sleep at one address, not to contact one another and to report to a police station twice a week. The men have been bailed to appear at a police station in the West Midlands at a later date.
Mr Saleem steps down just four months after being appointed into the role and will be replaced with Bob Wiggins. In an unfortunate turn of events, Waheed Saleem, the chair of CORE Educational Trust, said he was proud of all that he has been able to achieve since being appointed. On his resignation, he said, “I am proud of being instrumental in forming CORE and leading the board of directors through extremely challenging circumstances,” he added. “During my time with CORE, both I and other directors have spent considerable amounts of time developing its strategic direction and dealing with the issues faced by the Trust. I am sure the directors will wish to continue to reflect the community and population they serve through effective governance and further strengthening community relations.” The CORE Educational Trust have been running three schools which had been linked to last year’s Trojan
Horse scandal in which it was suggested that Muslim hardliners were taking over school governing bodies. Five schools were put in special measures, including three being run by CORE. Since being appointed to the role of chair, Mr Saleem was able to implement some key changes, which were already having a positive impact on the school. This included the appointment of senior staff, holding staff surgeries, which have boasted morale, evening and weekend classes for children needing extra help with schoolwork and extra curriculum activities being added. Writing recently for the Chamberlain Files, Mr Saleem spoke of the challenges, which he faced, upon being selected as the new chair. “I (sic) found significant issues with safeguarding, narrowing of the curriculum and a culture of inertia. I came into a situation with considerable challenges not least significant numbers of staff, both
front line and in leadership positions suspended; Ofsted breathing down our necks; parents concerned about their children’s education; the community feeling under scrutiny; politicians wanting answers and most importantly the children feeling let down by the adults. “Never have I encountered such narrow minded inspectorate than the Ofsted inspectors for Park View. The questioning was extraordinary, intense and unfair.” It was always going to be a challenge to change schools which have been tarnished by the ‘Trojan Horse’ title, but it was careless and immature to drag the school, its staff and its students back to the worst year of their life. With so many people helping improve the lives of thousands of children across the city, it is good to know that there are individuals ready to make a positive impact on both society regardless of the unnecessary harsh analysis of others.
• Waheed Saleem
FAMILY CLOSE TO BEING HOMELESS • Aisha Khan with mum Sharon Brown
A
Birmingham woman says she is being ‘railroaded’ into paying a £650 fine which had initially been £4. Aisha Khan was fined for taking the train without a £4 ticket, she shrugged it off
as a minor inconvenience. She has now been told to pay the money, much to her mother’s shock as she could end up homeless. Aisha admitted: “I’ve been stupid. I was scared so I ignored the letters.
“I do feel guilty. I’ve always been the baby of the family and just didn’t know what to do.” They contacted Citizens Advice Bureau and offered to pay the bill in instalments, but unless the cash is handed over by the end of this month, her property will be taken. A once trifling matter is now a major trauma. Aisha’s recollections of the incident that sparked the legal marathon are hazy. “I had the money, but I don’t think there was anyone on the desk at the station,” she said. “The ticket collector said I’d get a fine. “It came to the house and I hid the letter – I was scared what mum would say – then forgot about it. I was young, scared and ignored it. “When I moved out more and more letters came to the house and the fine got bigger and bigger.” Sharon left some of the official notices unopened, then forgot about them. The tariff, however, was
going off the rails. Thankfully, one delivered in May WAS read – and staggered Sharon, who shares her threebedroomed home with three of her children, aged 23, 15 and two. It revealed Aisha was ordered to pay £343.30 by magistrates on November 12, 2013. She had been found guilty of failing to present a valid ticket. On Tuesday, a handdelivered notice from bailiffs revealed the figure was now £653.30, and rising. “Citizen’s Advice have told me it’s another £300 every time the bailiffs call,” said Sharon. “I have been really stressed, I have been crying. I’ve been on the phone constantly, telling them Aisha doesn’t live here. “I’ve been told unless we can find the money they’ll take things from the house, not that there’s anything to take. “I just wish we’d sorted it out after the first letter, but you can’t turn back the clock.”
ADVERT
AUGUST 2015
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
1 The Retail Park, Capehill, Smethwick, Birmingham, B66 4PH Tel: 0121 558 6786
OPEN
7
DAYS A WEEK
SPECIAL OFFERS ON FRUIT & VEG
DON’T MISS OUT ON
SPECIAL
OFFERS IN-STORE
100% HALAL MEAT
MANY MORE OFFERS IN-STORE TODAY!
STRETCHING YOUR POUND ALL YEAR ROUND...
23
24
HEALTH COLUMN Dr Julian Hull, clinical lead for organ donation at Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust, explains how people can donate their organs. Thousands of life-saving transplant operations take place every year in the United Kingdom and there has been a steady increase in the number of transplant operations performed. Over 3,500 transplant operations took place between April 2013 and April 2014. But over 7,000 people in the UK are still on the transplant waiting list and on average three people die every day waiting for a transplant. The majority of people on the transplant waiting list are in need of a new vital organ to treat a lifethreatening condition. Donating your organs really can make a massive difference to change the lives of desperately ill people and you can specify which organs you would like to donate, whether that be your kidneys, heart, liver, lungs, pancreas or small bowel. When it comes to organ donation, one point to remember is that the donor and recipient must be checked to ensure compatibility and minimise the risk of organ rejection. This is a particular problem for patients with rare tissue types as matching donors are hard to find. The need for organs in the Asian and black community is three to four times higher than that of the white community. Patients from Asian and black communities are more likely to need an organ transplant as they are more prone to illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease, all of which can result to organ failure. People from different ethnic backgrounds have a greater chance of survival if their new organ was donated by someone of the same ethnicity as the tissue matching is better. So how can you donate your organs and join the NHS Organ Donor Register? You can fill in an online form at www. organdonation.nhs.uk or call the 24-hour NHS Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23. You can also join when registering at a
NEWS
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015
GP’s surgery, for a driving license, or for a European Health Insurance Card, as well as when you apply for a Boots Advantage Card. Anyone can join the Organ Donor Register. Children can sign up to the Register but their parents or those with parental responsibility will be asked to provide their consent. There are three different types of organ donation you need to familiarise yourself with. Firstly the majority of organs donated are by patients who die in hospital whilst on a ventilator on an Intensive Care Unit as a result of severe head injuries, stroke or brain haemorrhage. Brain stem tests are then carried out to confirm death before any action is taken. These donors are often called ‘heart beating donors.’ The heart continues to beat because a mechanical ventilator is used to keep organs oxygenated through the lungs after the patient’s death. Secondly patients can donate organs following cardiac death which is mainly referred to as ‘nonheart beating donors.’ Organs must then be removed quickly after the heart ceases to beat because without blood flow, organs rapidly become unusable. Live organ donations are now possible. Kidneys can be donated by living donors as it is possible for a healthy person to live a normal life with a single kidney. The donor is usually a blood relative of the patient. Changes in the rules now mean it is possible to be an altruistic donor. By this we mean donors unrelated to the patient who agree to donate an organ through personal generosity.
For more information on organ donation, visit the NHS Organ Donation website: www. organdonation. nhs.uk
Are you on Twitter? To find out what is going on around our hospitals, and for latest news and updates follow us @heartofengland. Join our conversation today! Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust staff provides general and specialist hospital care across Heartlands Hospital, Solihull Hospitals, Good Hope Hospital and Birmingham Chest Clinic. The Trust also provides community health services across the borough of Solihull. The Trust employs more than 10,000 members of staff, making it one of the top five employers in the Midlands.
Dr Khan! Knockout start for Graduates Amir & Sajid
• HONOURED: Boxing
champ Amir Khan and cricketer Sajid Mahmood accept honorary university degrees
"It is a great honour to receive this award from my home town University."
D
egree Congregations 2015 have had a knockout launch this morning with honorary awards for three champions – one of universities, one of boxing and one of cricket. Born and raised in Bolton, Amir Khan first started boxing aged just eight when his father took him to Haliwell Boxing Club in order for his hyperactive young tear-away to blow off some steam. Today his name is synonymous with the sport of boxing; one of its biggest and best stars, known the world over. Renowned for his impressive speed and thrilling style, Amir Khan is a former unified Light Welterweight World Champion and Olympic Silver Medallist. He
currently boxes in the welterweight division, which is led by pound-forpound king Floyd Mayweather, an opponent Amir will be looking to dethrone should they meet in the near future. ‘It is a great honour to receive this award from my home town University. It means a great deal to me – Bolton will always be part of my life,’ said Amir Khan. Amir’s cousin and right-arm fast bowler Sajid Mahmood who has played international cricket for England and county cricket for Lancashire was also given an award. Sajid was spotted in the Bolton Leagues and joined Lancashire on a scholarship as a 21-year-old. From there, he rose rapidly through the
ranks and was selected for England A's tour to India and Malaysia in 2003-04. Three years later he announced his Test arrival against Sri Lanka at Lord's taking three wickets in four overs and has since made notable contributions to county and country as both a bowler and batsman. He said: 'It's an absolute honour to receive an honorary doctorate and a very proud moment for myself and my family to be recognised for my achievements. Many thanks for the University of Bolton for awarding me with this great achievement, and to my parents who have been alongside me every step of my journey so far.'
Baroness Warsi Gets University Role Appointed Visiting Professor at St Mary’s • NEW ROLE: Baroness Warsi
Baroness Sayeeda Warsi has been appointed Visiting Professor at St Mary’s University, Twickenham starting her role in September. She will work closely with the University’s Centre for Initiatives in Spiritual and Reconciliation to promote reconciliation within and beyond faith groups through seminars, conferences and outreach. Baroness Sayeeda Warsi said, “I’m proud to be joining St Mary’s and its very distinguished roster
of Visiting Professors. The University’s outward looking and progressive stance on faith is impressive as is the crucial role it plays in public life and in education. The role will enable me to continue to build on important work being advanced by St Mary’s focussing on the positive power of faith and the great benefit it can have on society.” Baroness Warsi has a keen interest in the field of interfaith relations and was the Government representative who welcomed Pope
Benedict XVI to the interfaith gathering at St Mary’s University in 2010. In Government she made the case for Faith in the Public Sphere in a series of high profile speeches and interventions. St Mary’s Vice-Chancellor Francis Campbell said, “Baroness Warsi will be a tremendous asset to St Mary’s as her dedication to fostering inter-faith relations and strong international links will help our University reach out across borders and forge new
relationships overseas. Baroness Warsi was Britain’s first Muslim Cabinet minister and at the time of her appointment in 2007 became the youngest member of the House of Lords. In Government, Warsi combined a role in the foreign office and a domestic department as Senior Minister of State in the Foreign Office and Minister for Faith and Communities before resigning from the Government in August 2014 over the Governments policy on Gaza.
ADVERT
AUGUST 2015
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
HOPE > BELIEF > HELP
Helping our supporting homeless project • We urgently require donations of furniture
Oxhill House have helped many men and women break free from homelessness, risk and addiction and find a new direction in life. Covering The West Midlands Area
We can arrange House Clearance, Removals, and Collect Unwanted Furniture, Clothes & Bedding
07496 007 262
21A Caroline Street - Birmingham - B3 1UE w: www.oxhillhouse.org.uk
25
26
NEWS
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015
Forty Firefighters Salaam Shalom Shanti Peace Tackle Blaze Project Manager Raaj Shamji of the ground-breaking interfaith project which brings the Jewish and Muslim communities together at the Balaji Temple in Tividale this October talks to Nasir Awan, Saqib Bhatti and Waheed Saleem, 3 prominent Muslims who are leading and representing their community on this project.
A fire in Birmingham city centre took 40 firefighters an hour to get under control. The blaze broke out at the Wholesale Market in Pershore Street and could be seen across the city. Crews were called at just before 2.10pm to the blaze on Pershore Street with eight engines attending, as well as paramedics and police. A spokesperson for West Midlands Fire Service said, “ We started to get several
999 calls reporting a fire in the wholesale markets on Pershore Street in Birmingham city centre. “We sent eight fire engines and some 40 firefighters to the scene. “The fire involved two units out of a total of around 80 on the site. Wooden pallets and stock including fruit and vegetables were involved in the fire, in an open plan indoor area. “There were no reported injuries.”
NYT Pull ISIS Theatre Production
• REPRESENTATIVES: All Faith Groups Attend Camp
A
s part of the Balaji Temple Annual Youth Camp, faith leaders from the West midlands region came together to deliver small interfaith workshops to the participating youngsters. These workshops were part of a much wider range of activities including Yoga, scripture readings and talks. Nasir Awan prominent local businessman and mentor to many praised the quality and variety of the programme. Waheed Saleem commented "The project is an excellent example of how different faiths can work together to promote peace and harmony. I was keen on being involved
to demonstrate how our different faiths have the same message of peace and love for all and to support the excellent inter faith work that the Balaji Temple are promoting". As project manager, it was an honour to introduce him and he spoke passionately about how the 3 Trustees of the temple are unique in the sense that they are fully and unconditionally aligned to serious interfaith activities. Saqib Bhatti, president of the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce commended the trustees as inspirational, commenting that in their openness and approach they have created a stage for
tangible interfaith activity. Saqib is confident that this unique action based interfaith projects will leave a lasting impact for Hindu-MuslimJewish unity. More importantly he stated that these activities and the hugely anticipated Salaam Shalom Shanti Peace project, are only possible when there is a platform created at the top of organisations and the Trustees of Balaji Temple have truly created this platform. Nasir has been evaluating with local scholars the right message of the beauty of Islam. He commented that it was remarkable that the Temple trustees have created
seven symbolic hills to reflect the seven peaks in the famous Hindu place of pilgrimage Thirupathi in South India and dedicated those as Faith Hills, major symbols of respect to other faiths in our community. The Temple Trustees have stated on their project website that one of the objectives of the project was to create a place of spirituality open to all members of the community regardless of one’s religion, cast, creed, colour or sect in the true spirit of Interfaith whilst remaining a Hindu place of worship. The workshops at the youth camp are an example of making these objectives a reality.
CITY COMPUTER AND PHONE SHOP
DESKTOP, LAPTOPS & SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM SPECIALISTS
PHONE REPAIRS A controversial play exploring the radicalisation of young people has been cancelled 10 days before its opening night, after claims of censorship. Homegrown was due to be staged at a London school from 12 August, but the National Youth Theatre production was shelved. The creators claim it was due to external pressures and that "voices have been silenced". However, the NYT said the play failed to meet its standards. "After some consideration, we have come to the conclusion that we cannot be sufficiently sure of meeting all of our aims to the standards we set and which our members and audiences have come to expect," the
theatre said. With a cast of 113 people, aged between 15 – 25 who were mostly from ethnic minorities, the play was to explore the motives of radicalised teenagers and attitudes to Islam in the UK. The play’s director, Nadia Latif, said, "We got an email on Thursday night saying the show was cancelled, rehearsals are done, and the cast were told on Friday morning," "This show was about having an intelligent conversation around an issue that has hysteria attached, and instead voices have been silenced with no explanation and without the content ever being seen because of this landscape of fear that we live in.
MAKING VAN HIRE SIMPLE & HASSLE FREE!
FLORA MOTOR HIRE
• Straightforward and Efficient Low Cost Van Hire • Over 100 High Spec Vehicles •Short & Long Term Hire No Hidden Costs! The Price We Quote is the Price You Pay
337 Lichfield Road, Aston, Birmingham, B6 7ST Tel: 0121 328 3888 Fax: 0121 328 2290 Web: www.florahire.co.uk E-mail: floramotorhire@aol.com
LAPTOP & COMPUTER ACCESSORIES WE SERVICE ALL MAJOR BRANDS
LAPTOP & MOBILE SALES • DATA RECOVERY • BROKEN SCREEN REPAIR MOTHERBOARD FAILURE • VIRUS & SPYWARE REPAIR BLUE SCREEN OF DEATH • IPHONE SCREEN REPAIRS
NO FIX NO FEE WE ALSO UNLOCK AND REPAIR MOBILE PHONES
MOBILE SALES AND REPAIRS • MOBILE PHONE ACCESSORIES 199 OMBERSLEY ROAD • BALSALL HEATH • BIRMINGHAM • B12 8UY P: 0121 246 3465 | M: 07935229097 | E: CITYCOMPUTERCC@GMAIL.COM
ADVERT
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015
27
28
AUGUST 2015
Rookie on the Job
NEW RECRUIT STAKES HIS CLAIM P
olice officers are never truly ‘off-duty’ – and rookie officer Kiran Patel showed why just weeks into his new public service career when he leapt to the aid of a child knocked down
NEWS
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
on a busy dual-carriageway. PC Patel was on a rest day having dropped his mum at work when traffic ground to a halt in New John Street West, Hockley, and the screams of fellow motorists alerted him
to a schoolboy lying in the road. The 10-year-old had run into the carriageway to retrieve a football when he was struck by a car and left with fractures to his arm and shoulder.
PC Patel showed a cool head and experience beyond his years as he managed the scene, diverted traffic, and comforted the boy’s hysterical parents while an off-duty doctor administered first aid. He said: “We’re here to protect and serve the public… it doesn’t matter that I was off-duty at the time, a young lad was hurt, people were panicking and I had to help out. “I was able to assist with traffic management before on-duty officers arrived at the scene…I updated the sergeant and continued helping until the road had cleared. The boy recovered and I was pleased to have played my part. Kiran hit the streets in April as one of 82 new West Midlands Police recruits but previously worked in south Birmingham as a volunteer Special Constable during which time he sat on the National Hindu Students' Forum. And his work promoting student unity, plus the impressive start to his PC career, saw him named Police Officer of the Year 2015 at the Black and Asian Police Association (BAPA) awards in July! The 24-year-old is cutting his teeth in the force’s response unit, answering emergency calls for help in east Birmingham, and as with all new officers he spent the first few under the guidance of a seasoned officer.
THIS ONE’S FOR YOU MAMA A son who lost his mother whilst on holiday with her has written a poem to remember her by. Aaron Takhar, aged 21, from Shirley, described his ‘Mama’ Ravinder as his best friend and hero. In the poem, which was read out at Ravinder’s funeral, Aaron also referred to his mum as his ‘teacher, chef, coach and sofa buddy.’ Ravinder died of heat exhaustion whilst on holiday in Arizona. Phoenix fire captain Mike Billingsley said at the time: “This was a tragic ending to a long, hard exhausting day. “We mourn this tragedy for this family, somebody lost their mother and their wife today and it’s a hard day for everybody.” Aaron explained why he had written the poem. “I really felt there needed to be something that not only encapsulated her life but also celebrated it because she had a wonderful life.” Aaron’s poem reads: “You are my Mom, you are my teacher, you are my chef, you are my coach, you are my sofa buddy, you are my best friend and you are my hero. “It would be easy to consider myself unfortunate given the circumstances but instead I consider myself as the luckiest person
in the world because I had you as a mom in 21 of the most amazing years anyone could ask for. In those 21 years we managed to achieve what most moms and sons would achieve in 50 years. “I have no regrets and know our relationship is as strong and loving as you are. The love of everyone here today means you will always live on: “You live on when someone buys something from Ted Baker. “You live on in neat and tidy presents. “You live on when someone does something insanely nice for someone else for no particular reason. “You live on when Liverpool score a goal. “You live on when a son tells his mom that he loves her with all his heart. “You live on in all of us who love you. “I don’t know how to thank you for all you’ve done for me and I don’t think I’ll ever be able to comprehend how much I love you. “Rest in peace MAMA. With love from your son Arnie.”
www.SpaPartiesBirmingham.co.uk
Sofia’s Spa Parties Spa, Pamper & Makeover Parties For Ladies, Kids & Teenagers in The Midlands
Looking for the perfect event full of pampering and fun? Sofia's Spa Parties Birmingham is a mobile spa company and we bring the spa to you.We come to your home or venue and transform it with throws, spa equipment and accessories. Our spa therapists bring and set up everything needed to pamper your little princesses, or troublesome teens for a party they will always remember.
t: 0121 405 0349 m: 07583 213 271 /Spapartiesbirmingham @spasbirmingham
Spa, Pamper, Makeover, Beauty Parties for Kids, Teenagers & Ladies
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
NEWS
Halal Is Barbaric and Funds Terrorism’ Stickers Found
• CHARGED: Edwards pleaded guilty to putting the stickers on food
A man has been charged after stickers condemning halal meat were placed around a Salford supermarket. On 18 February 2015, a number of stickers that read: 'Beware halal is barbaric and funds terrorism' were placed on food products and equipment at a supermarket on Regent Road, Ordsall. Liam Gary Edwards , of
Chancel Avenue, Salford, was charged with causing racially or religiously aggravated criminal damage. ‘He accepted he had been in possession of the stickers and placed them on various items,’ added Lisa Connor for the defence. ‘He got involved in a Twitter conversation about halal and maintains that his whole motivation was his
concern for the way in which halal meat is obtained and what happens in abattoirs.’ Edwards was sentenced to a four-week curfew for the original charge and for a second one of possession of cannabis, which police found in his car. He was told to pay a total of £176.50 in prosecution costs, surcharge and compensation.
Guilty of Shooting Mother-in-Law UK MAN TRAVELLED TO PAKISTAN IN REVENGE ATTACK
A man from Wolverhampton has been found guilty of flying to Pakistan to kill his motherin-law in a brutal revenge attack. Tariq Rana tracked down Ghulam Asia and shot her on the doorstep of her house in Lahore in retaliation after his 28-year-old wife Ayesha Riaz split up with him. 31-year-old Rana arrived at Mrs Asia’s home in July 2013 with an unnamed accessory, dressed as a delivery man. The pair rang the doorbell and when Mrs Asia, 49, went to the gate to sign for the
delivery, Rana shot her with a shotgun. She died hours later from internal injuries caused by two gunshot wounds. He then made a series of telephone calls to Ms Riaz’s brothers threatening to “kill them all” unless she came back to him, according to police. The 31-year-old was convicted of murder at Woolwich Crown Court. He claimed during the trial that he had nothing to do with the shooting and was at Mrs Asia’s home with
a “bodyguard” to try and reconcile with his wife. Rana was prosecuted in the UK under the Offences against the Person Act 1861, which gives authority for a UK national to stand trial for a murder committed overseas. Det Chief Insp Tim Duffield, of the Homicide and Major Crime Command at the Metropolitan Police, described Rana as a “violent and controlling man” who murdered his mother-inlaw “in the most callous and brutal way”. “This was not a spontaneous event, but rather a revengedriven premeditated attack aimed at causing the maximum distress and suffering to his estranged wife and her family,” he said. “It is also important to recognise the considerable assistance we received from the Pakistani authorities, without which justice for Mrs Asia’s family would not have been possible. “My deepest sympathies go out to Mrs Asia’s family who have shown great dignity and courage throughout.”
BIRMINGHAM CITY CENTRE ATTACKS A man has been charged with attacking three women in Birmingham city centre on the same day. Rehaan Akhtar is accused of trying to rob a 28-year-old on Holliday Street before assaulting a 31-year-old on Suffolk Street Queensway and then sexually assaulting a 28-year-old on Hill Street − all on 1 May 2015 between 2.40pm and 2.55pm.
He has also been charged with a public order offence, which took place during that time at New Street station. Akhtar, aged 39 and of Plymouth Road, Kings Norton, was arrested on 26 May in connection with the allegations and was charged by officers on 10 July. He is due to appear before Birmingham Magistrates’ Court later.
WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM
AUGUST 2015
29
30
AUGUST 2015
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
ADVERT
AUGUST 2015
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
NEWS
The Good Samaritan!
31
60 MILES FOR BIJAY
AND GURMEL
Police Praise Man Who Helped Teenager
P
olice are appealing to a Good Samaritan to come forward after he came to the aid of a teenager who had been approached by a man in a silver car in Coventry. The incident is believed to be a second of its kind in the Longford area of Coventry. The 16-year-old was walking along Lady Lane at around 9.30pm on Saturday 8 August when a silver car pulled up beside her. A man described as Asian began talking to her and asked her to get into his car. When she refused he got out of the car and tried to grab her, a man who was passing the girl saw this happen and told the driver
of the car to leave the teenager alone. And now police are appealing to the passerby to contact them as he may have information that could help the investigation. Detectives are linking this second incident after a 14-year-old girl was approached by a man who tried to push her towards his car on Windmill Road at around 8.40pm on Friday 7 August. Sergeant Helen Waite, from Coventry’s Public Protection Unit, said: “Although the vehicles are different we believe that the suspicious incidents are linked. “On Friday the girl described the car as a blue Vauxhall Corsa and on Saturday the car is
POLICE CALM PUBLIC OVER CCTV USES West Midlands Police has reassured communities that there will be no return to mass surveillance cameras in residential areas. Det Chief Supt Sue Southern from the force’s
Counter Terrorism Unit, says: “The installation of CCTV cameras under Project Champion in some areas of Birmingham generated strong opposition from local communities.
described as silver in colour. “We believe a man saw what was happening and told the driver of the silver car to leave her alone. “The girl was not hurt but she was left very shaken by her ordeal and now we are eager to trace the driver of the car. “Officers are searching CCTV for any clues and are speaking to people within the area to see if they saw the car or have any information that could help the case. “I would like to stress that incidents of this kind are very rare and on both occasions the girls were not hurt. They did the right thing by calling us and making us aware of these incidents.”
Force Admits Message was Taken Out of Context
“Let me be clear – the force apologised and the cameras were removed. They are not going to be put back. The force has no plans to introduce mass surveillance cameras.” The on-line coverage stems
from an interview Detective Chief Supt Southern undertook with local radio station BBC WM about general counter terrorism issues.
• 60 Miles: Bijay and Gurmel Khela A group of cyclists from Wolverhampton have rode 60 miles around London in memory of a father and son who both died of cancer. The cyclists used the famous ‘Boris Bikes’ to carry out their journey, completed in honour of Wolves fan Bijay Khela and his father Gurmel Khela, with money raised being donated to the Steve Bull Foundation. The group rode around Windsor, finishing up at Tower Bridge, where members were met by friends and family. The ride marked the sixth instalment of BJ’s Charity Bike Ride, which started in 2010 after siblings Pete Khela and Kami Aujla lost their brother Bijay to a brain tumour at the age of just 41. Bijay was a keen cyclist and an ardent Wolves fan. He was outlived by his father Gurmel, who died in 2014 after a twoyear fight against cancer. Kami, who supported the
riders on their journey and said: “The cyclists initial response to the bikes was one of surprise as they were quite heavy and only had three gears. They had ridden on normal bikes doing 120 miles in a day but this was a different challenge altogether. “There were a few hiccups along the way but the riders were determined and never gave up.” “They ended up doing an extra 10 miles, so they totalled 60 miles on the Boris Bikes. “Family and supporters were all there to cheer them on at the finish line by Tower Bridge.” The group also raised money for Cancer research, Nepal Earthquake Relief and the Unique Home For Girls. The money is set to be put together with other fundraising money and will be added to the £145,000 total raised by the BJ Charity Bike Ride since it started.
FoziaBoutique
VISIT OUR
Only £39.99
WEBSITE FOR UNBEATABLE
OFFERS
Fozia Boutique
Only £45.00
Only £26.99
We keep our prices low and quality high
W: www.foziaboutique.com E: enq@foziaboutique.com T: 01254 916 314 facebook.com/foziaboutique
32
News
NEWS
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015
KEEP UPTO DATE WITH THE LATEST NEWS ON OUR WEBSITE WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM
INDEPENDENCE DAY
The fight for Man Left for Dead freedom Helped by Public LOCAL HERO EXPLAINS HOW HE RESCUED A
3-MONTH BABY FROM BURNING BUILDING
TURN TO PAGE 4 TO READ THE FULL STORY
SHARE YOUR OPINION
A senior detective has labelled as "heroes" first aiders who tended to a man "left for dead" in a Perry Bar stabbing. Officers were called to Birchfield Road at the junction of The Broadway just after 9.15pm where a 24-year-old Winson Green man was found with multiple stab wounds. As officers flooded the area, they found "several" passersby tending to the seriously injured man. Detective Chief Inspector Paul Joyce, from Force CID, said: "When officers arrived at the scene, they found several people tending to the man who had been left for dead by his attacker. "These local heroes were comforting the man and stemming the flow of blood from his multiple wounds. Without their selfless actions, I’m quite certain he would
have died." The motive for the attack remains unclear at this time but work continues this morning to find the person or people behind the crime. "As part of our on-going investigation we have spoken to local people and have identified CCTV cameras which may have captured the attack," added Det Insp Joyce. "Our forensic specialists have also been to examine The Broadway but what I really need is anyone who was in the area at the time of the attack to get in touch. "As well as people who may have witnessed the incident, I’d be particularly keen to hear from people who cared for the man but left the area before they spoke to officers." The man remains in a serious but stable condition in hospital this morning given details.
Punjab Kit Boost
TWEET US #ATINDEPENDANCE
Kundan Krishna I am an Indian entrepreneur and have travelled all over the world, previously as a part of my job and then later for our business interests. I have also been to Karachi and Lahore a couple of times. Pakistanis are very friendly and seldom follow the rule book. I had someone that welcomed and escorted me from my Jet all the way to the hotel, gently taking care of all custom formalities, immigration questions, also introducing me to some of the people he knew all the way. Never have I enjoyed this level of hospitality anywhere else, including my own people here in India.
Saniya Bhutta Well I'm 35 so not sure if I qualify as "young" anymore. In general the fear and loathing has decreased tremendously since the 80's where it was pumped up by Zia Ul Haq (who is generally considered to have been a bad idea). But it is a mixed love and hate relationship.
Protik Roychowdhury
68 Years on and the Struggle to Belong is Passed on to British Asians Migration to the UK from South Asia by both Pakistanis and Indians, in the last 60’s and has carried on to this day. Come 14th and 15th August, millions of people across the globe will be celebrating the independence of both countries, including people from the UK. For those Asians living in the UK, it is an opportunity to celebrate their dual nationalities. However, both the Indian and Pakistani communities are stuck in a timelapse of a very fragile relationship with each other.
I'm Indian but I have to say this. I have, in various phases of my life, been in touch with Pakistanis of various ages. I encountered them when they came to India for certain reasons, and I again encountered a lot of Pakistanis in the UK. By and large, I have not met one Pakistani person that I disagreed with, maybe that's because every Pakistani I met has had a more liberalised outlook on life (educated, or if in UK, then looking for a better life). However, within that subset, I have found them to be warm hearted and very welcoming to an Indian (read, me).
Saniya Bhutta
Fire cadets in Punjab are set to benefit from a linkup between West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) and the Asian Fire Service Association (AFSA). Dozens of used and outdated WMFS uniforms have been donated to the young would-be firefighters. Baiju Panchmatia, Senior Purchasing Officer with WMFS, who is also the West Midlands regional chair of AFSA, said: “Some of our members travelled to Punjab in 2013 to explore ways of working together with the fire service there. “Having awarded a new contract for our uniform here at WMFS, we were keen to put our outdated stock to good use. “The clothing will be rebranded and hopefully give the cadets an even greater sense of pride
and belonging to their worthwhile organisation.” Councillor John Edwards, Chair of West Midlands Fire and rescue Authority, said: “We’re really pleased to support this initiative which will help a developing emergency service in the Punjab region of Pakistan. It’s good to know that kit once worn by our great women and men will now see further service with young people in a faraway fire and rescue service. “AFSA have been the catalyst in making this connection and making it happen and we offer our thanks to their great organisation as well.” Members of the West Midlands’ Pakistani community came together to provide storage and shipping costs for the uniform.
I don't think anyone at this point looks at India as the "enemy" since we've discovered a bunch of enemies within. People on the streets have wisened up to the media and now we know better. Other than that, I believe I speak for most Pakistanis when I say we've been hearing such great things about India, that we cant help sincerely wishing you all the success. Hopefully in the future, our countries will have leaders who will stop drumming political propaganda into our minds.
The memory of independence is to some extent overshadowed by the horrors of Partition that followed. There is undoubtedly a bond between British and Indian cultures, and in many cases the British Asian community would find it difficult to define themselves as belonging to one or the other - especially the younger generation, who have often never even travelled to India or Pakistan. However, 68 years after the partition, the struggle of a place to belong and the freedom to
express love to two different countries has been passed on to British Asians. Can the next generation forget the hate that its ancestors had for each other? United in a sport, which only hosts the top eight countries in the world, can the next generation of British Asians come together and banish the spirit which their ancestors have left behind, one of distrust and suspicion, and can they forge a friendship in an environment which they are so often moulded by fear of doubt?
MORE FEATURES ONLINE AT WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM
ADVERT
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015
33
34
Be Kind Raises £1100 Will Support Rehabilitation of Homeless Women in London
B
e Kind Movement charity hosted it’s first charitable event on Sunday19 July that depicted the versatility, beauty and grandeur of India's most sensuous garment whilst raising funds to support the homeless women in London. Anchored by BBC Radio 4’s Viji Alles and set against the backdrop of vibrant flowing Sarees and dupattas, the ‘Many Avatars of the Saree’ event saw guests networking, raising funds and celebrating the many ‘Avatars’(manifestations) of the Saree. Fashion designer Jyoti Chandok passionately engaged the audience in an interactive discussion on the myriad fabrics and styles from across India whilst trained classical dancer and journalist Poonam Joshi elaborated on the origins of the Saree.
to fund initiatives that empower disadvantaged and underprivileged women. Eaves, a women led organization for women, will be the chosen recipient of the funds. Their Life Skills Service is a specialist advice and advocacy service for women who are affected by violence or are at risk of or experiencing homelessness. Services offered include support and advice around housing options, health, education, training and employment. A speech by Premila Puri Makh, Founder of Be Kind Movement, spoke of the charity’s vision to create meaningful interactions where people could collaborate with each other to shine a torch on the values of caring, sharing and helping. She emphasized: ‘One KIND act can change someone’s life; Many such acts create a MOVEMENT’. She
SPECIAL FEATURE: PUBLIC RESPONDS
Do We Have an Problem? SPECIAL FEATURE
“For all our successes as a multi-racial, multi-faith democracy, we have to confront a tragic truth that there are people born and raised in this country who don’t really identify with Britain.”
I
n a keynote speech, Prime Minister David Cameron set out a five-year government plan to tackle radicalisation and extremist ideology. Speaking in Birmingham, Mr Cameron said the issue had become a “struggle for a generation.” Tackling the issue of home-grown radicalisation, the Prime Minister set out his agenda to tackle the growing problem of young people travelling abroad to join terrorist groups. He also wanted to tackle conspiracy theories associated with the issue. “When they say that these are wronged Muslims getting revenge on their western wrongdoers, let’s remind them: from Kosovo to Somalia, countries like Britain have stepped in to save Muslim people from massacres. It’s groups like [Islamic State], al-Qaida and Boko Haram that are the ones murdering Muslims.”
• BE KIND: (L to R) Aparna Brij, Tanvi Kalra, Premila Puri
asked the audience to take a pledge to report any Acts of Kindness they see in public that reaffirms their faith in the goodness of people. A large number of the audience took the pledge in writing and promised to write to the Be Kind Movement with stories of kindness that they witness around them that will be featured on the Be Kind Movement’s website. The evening concluded with a heartfelt thanks to the sponsors: Asda Feltham, Eden Water, Forever Fairy, Gooseberry Bush Centre, Melissa’s Cakehouse and Nihaar Bakes and to the female entrepreneurs who showcased their wares: 101 Creations, Aliveni, Apnas, Bubbles Jewellery, Innate Designs, Jyoti Chandok Ltd, Sreshtha Designs and The Far East Art Studio.
• CLEAN: Section of the Soho Road in Handsworth outside the campus of South & City College Birmingham
“I am not saying these issues aren’t important. But let’s not delude ourselves. We could deal with all these issues – and some people in our country and elsewhere would still be drawn to Islamist extremism.” The Prime Minister set out what he sees as the four main reasons that people become radicalised: • Extremism can seem exciting, especially to young people. • People can be drawn from non-violent extremism to violent extremism. • Extremists are overpowering other voices within Muslim debate. • Failures of integration allow extremist ideas to gain traction. “For all our successes as a multi-racial, multifaith democracy, we have to confront a tragic truth that there are people born and raised in this country who don’t really identify with Britain.”
Shaista Gohir
Makh, Deepa Nair, Pooja Miglani, Nupur Aggarwal
The draping workshop led by Violet Monis, yoga guru and latterly celebrity stylist and fashion designer to some of Bollywood’s delectable divas including Vidya Balan, Katrina Kaif, Priyanka Chopra to name a few, culminated in a fun mini catwalk. The wonderful raffle prizes generously donated by the vendors at the event were very well received by the guests. The afternoon was perfectly summed up by Rinku Naidu, the winning entry of the ‘What’s your Saree story’ competition, “‘wearing a Saree means carrying the pride of my country, the responsibility of being a lady and the sense of having a strong bond for my family”. The hosts raised a humble £1100 from the event that will support Be Kind Movement’s goal
NEWS
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015
Chair, Muslim Women's Network UK
We welcome the acknowledgement that most Muslims contribute to our country and that the extremist acts of a minority do not represent Islam. We also agree that to defeat extremism, we must all work together including Muslim communities, government, police, schools, universities and social media. The Prime Minister also stated in his speech that we must promote British values such as fairness, justice, tolerating difference, religious freedom, being equal before the law and freedom of speech. However, such discourse must apply to everyone. For example, if Muslim hate preachers are regarded as extremists, then those who preach hate against Muslims cannot be regarded exercising freedom of speech. The government must also make a commitment to tackling discrimination and Islamophobia faced by Muslims in their daily life.
Have your say Tweet us: @theasiantoday #PMspeech
Mohammed Shafiq
Chief Excutive, Ramadhan Foundation
I am concerned that yet again Cameron is conflating the issue of extremism and terrorism with those of cohesion and integration. There is also a contradiction between Mr Cameron extolling British values such as free speech and then suggesting that Muslims who object to gay equality are somehow extremist and their views should not be tolerated. Everyone in this country, Muslims included, must have a right to express their views, no matter how intolerant they are. On the positive side I think a lot of Muslim families will welcome being able to get children’s passports confiscated if they’re worried about them being radicalised without the risk of them being criminalised.
SPRING CLEAN THE HOUSE?
After many years since the pavements of Soho Road in Handsworth were first slabbed, the Soho Road Business Improvement District (BID) has just completed this immense task of industrially cleaning them. Covering an approximate distance of 3.2 miles, nationally renowned industrial cleaners Ramora undertook one of the largest pavement washes in the country, and completed it on schedule. The local traders on Soho Hill, Soho Road, and Holyhead Road were supportive of such a long-awaited task, having voted it in when the BID was legally established last year.
Formed in April 2014, Soho Road BID is one of ten such legally constituted organisations currently operating in Birmingham that are led by local business representatives for the purpose of supporting businesses falling within designated areas in, inter alia, the economic improvement of those areas. Covering part of the busy A41 in North West Birmingham, there are well over 500 businesses that fall within the vibrant and ethnically diverse BID area that includes Soho Hill, Soho Road, and Holyhead Road. Operationally, the BID is managed on a dayto-day basis by Senior Management Director
Craig Buckby, with support of Dipak Shelat, Business Development Director. Chairman Dipak Patel was delighted with the result and stated,” This was a major undertaking that the BID held as a key priority this year, and both traders and shoppers alike have noticed a major difference to the environment. We will not have to wait many years again for this to be carried out once more by the BID as the footfall of many thousands of people regularly visiting the area will undoubtedly show on the pavements of this most vibrant area of Birmingham”.
AUGUST 2015
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
NEWS
TO DAVID CAMERON’S SPEECH
Integration
POLICE CLEARED OF ASSAULT • POLICE: PC Daniel Wood
We set out across the British community to ask what they thought about the Prime Minister’s speech and whether there really is a problem with integration within this country.
Luke Holland Proud Brummie and Labour Activist I sat in Ninestiles Academy Hall for half an hour shaking my head and pretty much disagreeing with what David Cameron had said about Extremism. I repeatedly heard the phrase “British Values” thrown about the room, what are these values?! I class myself as British, are British Values….Going abroad to Magaluf and puking all over the street causing misery to locals? Queuing at the reduced section in ASDA because you don’t have a secure job because you’re on a zero hour contract or is it a value to just blame every issue on the EU, Muslims or Immigrants? Yeah I’m proper proud to be British… Dave kept saying “ISIS (The Daesh mate) is not the real Islam”. Completely agree but then he went onto say that Muslims should speak out against them… um no. We have just stated that the Daesh are not a state and are not Islamic so why should Muslims speak out against a tiny minority. Will Mr Cameron ask Christians to speak out against the “KKK”? I think not. It was an attack on Muslims. He said that many communities had not “integrated”. Just like the Eton boys in Parliament not integrating with the real world, I suppose? Birmingham is my city, a city full of amazing people from all over the world and has every walk of life in it and you know what, it works! Let’s not pick on Muslims or alienate certain communities, like suffering daily abusive Islamophobic attacks was not hard enough.
Zainib Bibi
Death
Teenager Arrested on Hit and Run A teenager has been arrested in connection with the death of a Birmingham woman following a hit-and-run earlier this week. Zainib Bibi, 68, was hit by a white Fiat Marea on Tuesday 14 July in Burney Lane , Alum Rock and despite the best efforts of medical staff, died later that day. A 15-year-old came forward and was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving following an appeal for information. He was later bailed pending further enquiries. Sergeant Alan Wood said, "I would like to thank the members of public that have contacted us to assist with this investigation so far and would encourage anyone else with any other information that could assist to please contact us, enquiries into the collision are still continuing at this time" "Our thoughts are with the family at this difficult time, they are being supported by specially trained officers"
35
Police Cleared of Assault
A
police officer has been cleared of allegations he kicked a handcuffed teenager up to 15 times. PC Daniel Wood, 32, was acquitted by a jury of assault occasioning actual bodily harm after a colleague accused him of kicking Shazeb Ali around the head, neck and shoulders. The officer, from Nuneaton, was placed on administrative duties after colleague PC Sharon Cowhig made the allegations following Mr Ali’s arrest as part of a rape investigation on August 21, 2013. Five officers attended Mr Ali's home at 5am following an allegation of a knifepoint rape but the fatherof-one, who was then 17, was never charged with an offence. During the trial it was heard Mr Ali became angry and there was a scuffle as officers tried to place him
under arrest. PC Cowhig claimed that, during the scuffle, PC Wood kicked Mr Ali up to 15 times around the shoulders, neck and head when the teenager was cuffed and on the floor. Denying acting with excessive force, PC Wood told the court he acted only to restrain Mr Ali. He said: “I believe it was my actions that took the lead and if I hadn’t taken my actions I don’t know what would have happened.” Asked if he would act in the same way again, he said he would. Two other officers who were at the scene said they did not see PC Wood repeatedly kicking Mr Ali. An officer for 13 years, PC Wood was suspended from duty in March 2014. Following the verdict, the West Midlands Police Federation said such cases were taking too long to resolve after PC Wood
spent nearly two years on restricted duties and then on suspension. Steve Grange, secretary of the Federation, said he could not comment on the case, but added: “It is a constant issue for us. “We are trying to make representations to the Professional Standards Department, Crown Prosecution Service and whoever we can speak to because it has a huge impact on the officer and the efficiency of the force while they are suspended and not providing a service to the public. “It is in everyone’s interest to be dealt with speedily.” Mr Grange said such lengthy suspensions were stressful for officers, their families and colleagues. He said: “The problem is we are waiting longer and longer for all of these proceedings, whether criminal or misconduct.”
WINNERS OF MULTIPLE AWARDS WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM
ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES Call TODAY for Fantastic Rates in The Asian Today Newspaper & www.theasiantoday.com
CALL: 0121 314 2892
OR E-MAIL: sales@theasiantoday.com
36
AUGUST 2015
NEWS
WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM
Dal's Diva's or Mita's Musketeer's? We'll let you choose
Wimbledon Woes for The Asian Today Photography tennis was rampant at The Asian Today 200 Issue party with Boris Becker's protege taking the silverware. The Serena Williams of The Asian Today humbly accepted defeat. Unil next time.
WOW! Our entertainment entertainment correspondent is Photogenic! Tranquility for Karen and Paul
Hifzha The Asian Today
mmm.. . the ca YUMMMM.. .!! a big to Dimyum
Wimbeldon Jas of Sansi Photography
WORD 360's Kavita Parmar didn't jumble her words at the party. However, Monsoon Venue's Pav Shergil might want to book her next event at Arabian Nites.
Ninder pointing out to Waseem the problems with party politics
The boys from GT Appliances were looking to sell a van load of Anerican freezers on the night. Anyone for a cold coke?
The editors with Mr Scribbles who we owe a BIG Thank You for photographying our event We want to take this opportunity to say thank you to our incredibly creative and dedicated team.. . past and present.. .you guys show a zest and passion that can only be described as inspiring.. . More importantly a MASSIVE THANK YOU to our READERS & ADVERTISERS for putting your trust in us!
BI
BA Heads in for Pushpa from Headz Up Business with Amrick Singh
Behind the scenes.. .
the man behind the lens.... Stewart from PingTV
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
NEWS
37
AUGUST 2015
Can't have a party without the Noreen Khan Pose!
SMILE GUYS!
Babar and George Partners in Crime
My name's Ladd. Edwin Ladd
Sunny, Ifraz, Anita and Shay
200 ISSUES? A PIECE OF CAKE
ake was g shout out Cakes!
Waheed, Ninder, Jameel and Ammo
IG
Carrying on with the Noreen's Pose It's a thing now!
'S
WHAT THE SANSI!! Half of The Asian Today Team, the other half was missing.. . maybe too busy partying.. . if you have any snaps that you took secretly. . send them in to us.. . . . we promise we won't show them
Sara Khan
e u s is h t 0 0 2 r u o g in t Celebra 13 years of news that matters to you
H S A
Parvy and Anita E TME E L FI t, firs SEL But KE A TA
Shysta turns from sales queen to SELFIE QUEEN
Anita showing off her DJ'ing skil s, is there anything this woman can't do?
Synchronised dancing? Anyone would have thought we were at an Asian wedding!
Denise, Hifzha and Amarjit
South and City College staff being chaperoned by the Principal
The Asian Today Celebrates Major Milestone Celebrating its 200th issue, The Asian Today hosted a party like no other. With over 100 people invited, the night was a celebration of a publication much loved by readers across the Midlands. In attendance were some of the biggest names in business, media, legal and the public. The event was held at the impressive Arabian Nights club. The newspaper, itself, has been established for 12 years.
Anita Chumber from The Asian Today said: “We are really humbled. It’s been an incredible journey and we are grateful to have you take this journey with us. “Everyday we come into The Asian Today offices and our jobs are turned into privileges. It’s a privilege to bring news to the region and community, which we grew up in. Being part of The Asian Today has always been a pleasure and being honoured with a number of
Newspaper Marks Occasion with Successful Event
awards along the way was an unexpected highlight. “We want to take this opportunity to say thank you to our incredibly creative and dedicated team – past and present. As crazy as you guys make us, everyday you a zest and passion that can only be described as inspiring. To our readers, advertisers and everyone associated with The Asian Today, thank you for putting your trust in us.”
One wise woman? Nisha leading the way for women empowerment!
Nisha Sahdev with DJ Harpz and Vijay from Wise Balloon
38
AUGUST 2015
ADVERT
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
BIGGER • STRONGER • FASTER
SECTION 18 GYM WEAR • FIGHT WEAR
SPECIAL
OFFER £12.50 PER MONTH
• Free Weight • Supplement Store • Diet Advice • Nutrition • Pleasant & Friendly Environment
SECTION 18 SPECIAL JIU JITSU LESSONS £5 UPON REQUEST
Unit C • Norwood Road • Birmingham B9 5HU
tel: 07880 877 873 OPENING HOURS: Mon - Thurs: 9am - 10pm | Fri: 3pm - 10pm | Sat - Sun: 9am - 5:30pm
next to MKB caterting
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
EDUCATION
THE ASIAN TODAY
EDUCATION
State of Art for Aston SPORTS PITCH TO ENGAGE MORE STUDENTS A new state-of-the-art floodlit sports pitch will enable Aston University to engage more students and the wider Birmingham community in a greater variety of sports and activities from August. The £540,000 project will expand the number of community sports programmes delivered by the University while aiming to widen participation in sport in Walsall, Sandwell and North Birmingham. The new facility at the Aston University Recreation
Centre, on Birmingham Road, Great Barr, will be home to four community use partnership clubs: Aldridge and Walsall Hockey Club, West Bromwich Hockey Club, Rushall Olympic Football Club and F.C. Premier. Aston University’s Hockey Club will also benefit from the development of the new Sand-dressed EIH Category 2 pitch. Previously, the Club been hampered by having to hire additional pitches in other locations but they will now be able to play all of their matches on campus.
39
AUGUST 2015
In addition to Aston students, local schools, colleges and recreational users will have the opportunity to hire the allweather multi-surface too. Mike Kirkman, Aston University’s Director of Sport, said:“We have a proud history at the Outdoor Recreation Centre of providing high quality facilities for community sport and the installation of this new facility will greatly enhance provision for competitive hockey and football training in the area.”
STAY LOCAL TO
GO HIGHER SAVE ON FEES, LIVING COSTS AND TRAVEL
Thinking about going to COLLEGE? Interested in HIGHER EDUCATION? Considering earning whilst you learn on an APPRENTICESHIP? Whatever your next step, South and City College Birmingham can help. South and City College Birmingham is a vocational college which offers students and adult learners, full-time, part-time and apprenticeship courses from level 1 to higher education in a wide range of subjects. We currently provide courses and training to around 13,000 students and have multiple campuses across Birmingham, all within easy access. Committed to ensuring students have the relevant skills, qualifications and experience required for their future, whether that is to find a job or continue in education at college or university, the
college has excellent facilities which we continue to invest in. This includes a purpose built construction centre, hair and beauty salons which are open to the public, a fine dining restaurant run by students, music and sound recording rooms and an industry standard auditorium. AND, coming this September, if you are looking to take on a motor vehicle or engineering course at South and City College Birmingham, you will be studying in our new state of the art department and workshops. Having moved from Tylesey Campus to a new purpose built space at Bordesley Green; our
INTERESTED? We have dedicated enrolment dates in August and general enrolment from September 1st 2015 GCSE results day: 13th August A-Level results day: 20th August learning environment is the perfect place for you to expand your skills and knowledge through using the tools and equipment of your desired trade! South and City College Birmingham can help you get the skills you need to get ahead!
Visit our website www.sccb.ac.uk for full information on all the courses we offer, details on our apprenticeship schemes and to find out how to apply. Alternatively, get in touch with us at hello@southandcity.com or call us on 0800 111 6311.
STAY LOCAL TO
GO furthER
HNC/HND/Foundation Degree in:
NO UPFRONT COSTS*
Animal Management Business Computing Building Information Modelling Construction Engineering Fashion and Textiles Music Public Services Sport Travel and Tourism
Sign up now www.dudleycol.ac.uk 01384 363 363 *Student loans may be available to support tuition and maintenance fees. You won’t have to pay anything back until your income is over £21,000 a year.
GO FURTHER IN YOUR CAREER
Enrolling now for part-time courses starting September.
NO UPFRONT COSTS
*with a 24
+ ADVANCE D LEARNING LOAN
Sign up now www.dudleycol.ac.uk 01384 363 363 *For those 24+ years. On some Level 3/4 courses you won’t have to pay anything back until your income is over £21,000 a year.
4276DC 1529 1/4 page - Asian today - SLTGH AW.indd 1
30/07/2015 09:39
40
Foreign Languages Physical Education
Biology
Boxing Graduate
Geography
English
Chemistry Literature
Returning to School?
Haroon Khan Inspires Students
To mark the end of their primary school years, pupils have been inspired by a VIP guest at their recent graduation ceremony. Students at Chorley New Road Primary School were visited by boxer Haroon Khan, who is a bronze medal winner at the 2010 Commonwealth Games, respectfully. A special assembly where children were given their scrolls by Haroon was held and they were able to reflect on their time at the school.
Give your child the best chance of success at school
History Mathematics Physics Sociology Information Technology Religious Education
EDUCATION
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015
Art
Give your child the necessary skills to learn at our parents and children summer workshops
The Winners Mindset Self Control Concentration Self Belief The Use of Self Talk The Wonder of Numbers The Power of the Right Words TM
to book your place contact
07594 585 400
info@wonderoflearning.co.uk
Empowering children to learn
all courses will be led by neuroscientist Dr Roy Paget & Ambreen Khan with a team of certified trainers
Work Experience Drive Government Launch Project Aimed at Students M
ore than 30 leading businesses and 12,000 young people will be at the forefront of boosting Work Experience for young people in the UK, under a new Government campaign launched. Two thirds of employers say that work experience is a crucial factor when hiring staff – more than those who prioritise academic qualifications – according to UK Commission for Employment and Skills Commission (UKCES) research. In a first of its kind, the Government is launching the
‘WE can’ campaign, in which 84 ‘Youth Ambassadors’ from the Youth Experience UK (YEUK), will give advice on how others can set up their own work experience placements and make the most of their time in a business setting. Employment Minister Priti Patel said, “Young people tell me they can’t get a job without work experience, but they can’t get work experience without a job. “That is why we are launching the WE can campaign to give young people practical advice about making the most of their summer holidays – and beyond - to gain
It is the first time that the school has held a graduation event and Haroon followed in the footsteps of his brother, Amir, with his involvement in such a ceremony. Headteacher Linda Burrows said, "We wanted the children to see a local lad who has done well and achieved their goals, so Haroon can be an inspiration to them. The children had a fabulous time, and lots of parents said it was a very heartwarming event and that they were very proud." valuable business skills. “With 14 million jobs likely to open up in the UK in the next decade, this one nation Government wants young people to be at the forefront of the opportunities to get the best start in life.” The new ‘WE Can’ campaign aims to support young people make the most of those jobs, by incorporating work experience into their career plans. It is being launched ahead of GCSE and A-Level results and will be supported by up to 12,000 young people who have taken part in Youth Employment UK activities – led by their 84 youth ambassadors from across the country.
EDUCATION
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015
#CHOOSEYOURFUTURE BUSINESS/FASHION/I.T AUTOMOTIVE/BEAUTY
THINKING ABOUT GOING TO COLLEGE? INTERESTED IN HIGHER EDUCATION?
South and City College Birmingham can help you get the skills you need to get ahead!
CONSIDERING EARNING WHILE YOU LEARN ON AN APPRENTICESHIP?
Interested? Enrol NOW For more information visit our website, get in touch with us at hello@southandcity.com or call 0800 111 6311
www.southandcity.com
#CHOOSEYOURFUTURE
41
42
AUGUST 2015
ADVERT
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
YOUR MAGNIFICENT WELLNESS EVENT Saturday 3rd October 2015 9am - 4:30pm Village Hotel & Urban Resort Coventry Business Park Dolomite Avenue Coventry CV4 9GZ
#YMW2015 'Your Magnificent Wellness’ is a day for women of all ages and cultures to be in charge of their physical, mental, emotional and soulful wellness Hosted By: Dal Dhaliwal
Health & Fitness Expert, TV & Radio Presenter, Owner of ‘Body Perfect Training Studio
Liz Keaney
Author, International Speaker, ‘Conscious Living’ Coach, KindnessCODE™ Warrior’ They have collaborated with an amazing line-up of speakers that are passionate about helping inspire other women to step away from shame, abuse, low self-esteem, eating disorders, self-harming, addictions, obsessive behaviour, anxiety and depression as well as those that feel overwhelmed with the pressures of modern day life.
Speakers: Noreen Khan
BBC Asian Network Radio, TV Presenter & Business Woman
Chris Tuck
Author, Survivor & Campaigner of child abuse, Founder ‘Breaking The Cycle™’
Alison Ward
Anxiety Mentor, Author, ‘Most inspiring Person 2015’, Health & Happiness Magazine
Shannon Finan
Campaigner for positive body image through ‘Fixers’ charity
Discover your Inner Magnificence! Tickets are available on For more information contact: info@bodyperfectpt.com
PBN
New Brit-Asian female talent on the UK Asian Music Scene, Serena, from Team PBN will be joined by world renowned artist PBN for a Q & A panel
Gurpreet Bachu
Inspirational Role Model, voted ‘Miss Street Cred 2013’
Karen Kaur
Raising awareness to end domestic violence
Kate Winter
PT & Nutritional Advisor, a balanced approach to fitness and wellbeing
Steven Burgess
Love and Relationship Teacher through ‘Peace and Positivity’, Author
All ticket profits support Mind Charity for mental health
AUGUST 2015
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
NEWS
WOLVERHAMPTON MOSQUE ATTACK CCTV images of a man suspected of hurling bricks and bottles at a Wolverhampton Mosque have been released by police. Windows were smashed at the Baitul Atta Ahmadiyya Mosque on Willenhall Road just after 4am on 21 June. Following investigations officers are now in a position to release images of a person they
would like to speak to in connection with the incident. Sergeant Martin Hewitt, from Wolverhampton police, said: "We are dealing with this crime as a hate crime. Someone deliberately targeted the Mosque and this has caused considerable distress within the community" "We are appealing for anyone who can identify
onour killings charity, Karma Nirvana have celebrated the first anniversary of their Day of Memory . Partnering with international magazine, Cosmopolitan, the charity marked the occasion on Juky 14th which landed on Shafilea Ahmed’s birthday. The charity aims to make this an annual event. Jasvinder Sanghera, CEO of the charity, said, "We are going to be honouring the memories of the most honourable human beings where the perpetrators tried to erase them completely. "It's also an opportunity to raise awareness about the issue of honour based abuse and the scale of the problem in Britain." 2015 would have been Shafilea’s 29th birthday, who lost her life in 2003 aged 17. After suffering years of honour-based violence, including an attempted forced marriage, Shafilea’s parents suffocated her to death in front of her siblings. A social campaign aimed to use plastic in a more positive way by rebuilding and restoring Shafilea’s memory through the medium of 3D printing was also launched. A memorial bust of Shafilea was programmed
to be revealed in response to peaks in public support behind the hashtag #RememberShafilea. The charity, alongside UK police forces, has registered an estimated 11,000 honour based crimes in the past four years alone. Sandra Horley CBE, Chief Executive of the domestic violence charity Refuge said, “It is an utter tragedy that these women died fighting for their right to make choices about their own lives – and that so many women still experience pressure and abuse from their family or community in the name of ‘honour’. Let’s be clear – there is nothing honourable about violence or abuse.” She further stated, “Women experiencing ‘honour’-based violence must have sufficient protection from emergency services, as well as access to specialist refuge accommodation, advocacy and community support. There is a dire shortage of services for women experiencing domestic violence as it is, but specialist support for women from Black, Asian, minority ethnic or refugee backgrounds is woefully under-provided.”
Police Release CCTV Image of Suspect
the man to get in touch, we really believe that the local community may have the answer to solving this crime. "I would also like to appeal to the person in the image to do the right thing and come forward, we are determined to find this person and it is only a matter of time before we knock their door."
Remembering Shafilea H
43
"It's also an opportunity to raise awareness about the issue of honour based abuse and the scale of the problem in Britain."
WOMAN BAILED OVER SYRIA A woman arrested on suspicion of preparing to travel to Syria has been released on conditional bail while an investigation continues. The 30-year-old woman from Leicester was detained at Birmingham Airport by officers from the West Midlands Counter Terrorism Unit at 9.40am. The woman has been bailed with conditions to live and sleep at a specified address, abide by an overnight curfew, report to a police station twice a week and surrender her passport and any other travel documents. Officers continue to work with partner agencies to safeguard the welfare of three children who were with the woman at the time of her arrest.
SUSPICIOUS ITEMS FOUND
•
TRIBUTE: Schoolchildren pay tribute to honour crime victims
A man arrested by counter terrorism police following the discovery of suspicious substances at his Birmingham home has been detained under the Mental Health Act. Officers moved in to arrest the 27-year-old in Naseby Road, Alum Rock, after concerns were raised over him walking around holding a hammer. He was initially arrested for possessing an offensive weapon in public but later held by terrorism officers when a search of his address uncovered some suspicious substances in unlabelled bottles; the contents are being examined by forensics experts. Neighbouring homes were temporarily evacuated yesterday as a precautionary measure as initial safety checks were carried on the items, but explosives experts stressed there was no immediate risk to the public.
44
AUGUST 2015
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
ADVERT
AUGUST 2015
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
NEWS
Strangers Funeral Attended by Hundreds
45
DINNER AND DANCE FOR DELETE BLOOD CANCER Local Event Aims to Raise Awareness
Plea to Attend Goes Viral
H
undreds of strangers turned out for the funeral of a man whose body lay unclaimed in a hospital morgue for months. Over 400 people attended the funeral of Muhammed Yusuf, 77 - despite never having met him. Mr Yusuf passed away last December, with his body stored at the morgue in Manchester’s Royal Infirmary, while efforts were made to trace any family. But after seven months no relatives had been found, and hospital staff began to organise his funeral. When news spread on social media there were no relatives to attend, hundreds of strangers dropped everything to attend the service. The imam at Manchester Royal
Infirmary who lead the funeral has described it as ‘a wonderful moment of coming together’. Imam Siddiq Diwan said: “From Islamic perspective, a funeral cannot be done alone, it has to be done by a few people. “So I texted two of my fellow Imams to see they could attend and one of them then forwarded that to a WhatsApp group and that went on Facebook. “It was reaching people as far away as Preston and Blackburn. “I thought about ten people were coming and when I got there it was hundreds. “It was a wonderful moment of coming together with old people,
young people, white, black, Asian, Middle Eastern. “They’d all got together and at that point we didn’t even know his name. “It was amazing, a rallying of the community and quite overwhelming.” One mourner, who asked to remain anonymous, said: “It wasn’t about being a Muslim, it was about being a good human being. “Nobody knew this man but people felt that they had to come down and pay their respects to someone who had no family. “It was a really good turn out.” It is understood the pensioner took ill at home and then taken to Manchester Royal Infirmary where he was pronounced dead.
BRITISH MOVIE TO TACKLE
ISLAMAPHOBIA FILM SET TO HAVE LAUNCH WITHIN MONTHS •
A British-Asian movie, which tackles the issue of Islamaphobia and discrimination, is set to be released within the next couple of months. Freesia, which starts a number of high-profiled and emerging actors is set to have its launch in Bradford this month. The movie is a multinarrative journey that weaves between three families living in presentday Bradford. Dealing with women’s rights, mosques and the far-right, three young protagonists find themselves propelled into the world of prejudice when their paths collide. Yusuf is the son of a Pakistani Mosque Scholar doing his best to keep his dad’s dream at arms length. Zac is from a White working class family whose troubles hit fifth
FREESIA: First movie of it's kind.
gear due to his radical behaviour. Khadija is second generation Iraqi and a recent graduate in Politics whose ambitions are about to be put to the test. Fuelled by yet another grooming case making the headlines, they must decide how Islamophobia will shape their future. Talking to The Asian Today, director Conor Ibrahim said he never expected it to become a film. “'Freesia' is my directorial debut, although it was never intended to be a feature - it was originally conceived as 3 short films. What we ended up with is the first UK film to address Islamophobia and stars Aqib Khan from the British Asian film 'West is West' in a leading role. It was shot around West Yorkshire in 2014 over a 13-day period and plans
are already underway to develop a sequel, and from there a third instalment. “We have used all our resources to their fullest and not been held back by lack of a big budget - and we don't want to abandon this method. Indeed, we wish to nurture a new model of filmmaking that continues to produce lowbudget/high concept Social Realism films. In doing so it means providing work and opportunity to cast and crew in the North of the UK and also prove that you don't need millions to be a success - just the right story, conviction and a talented cast/crew who share the vision.” Two launch dates have been set aside for the movie, one being on the 15th August in Manchester and the other being 22nd August in London.
A dinner and dance event to raise funds for Delete Blood Cancer UK and raise awareness of blood stem cell donation is taking place in Smethwick. The event, which is being organised by a group of volunteers (led by local man Robbie Chahal), is taking place on Saturday, the 5th of September, at The Night Inn. Up to six hundred people are expected to attend the event. The event will start at 6pm and end at midnight, and will include a three course meal and a range of entertainment acts.
Speaking about the event and why he is organizing it, Robbie said: “We hope the event will encourage people to sign up to be a potential stem cell donor, and of course, raise money to continue the fantastic work being done by Delete Blood Cancer UK.” The dress code is formal and tickets are priced at £25 each and available by contacting Kam Arora (07801 280766). For further information on this event, contact Robbie Chahal (07855 551730).
46
AUGUST 2015
ADVERT
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
210 Bromford Lane Washwood Heath Birmingham B8 2DP
TEL: 0121 783 1764
EID SALE
NOW ON A VARIETY OF READY MADE DRESSES INSTORE
www.desixpress.co.uk
DESI XPRESS
NO.1 FOR ASIAN ENTERTAINMENT EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW NAFEES & SAMA BLAKE INSIDE TURN TO PAGE #51
AUGUST 2015 DESI XPRESS 47
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
INSIDE INSIDE
PG. 48
End of the Road for
‘ZAUGHTY’ BRINGS BACK
BROMANCE
LUCKY NUMBER 7 FOR
NAFEES
PG. 49
Judaa Tops Asian Chart
B
NOW Available to Download
ritish singer, songwriter Nafees is a name which has been at the forefront of the UK Asian music scene for the last 3 years. Following a string of hit singles, 4 consecutive number 1’s on the Official Asian Download Chart, including ‘Sazaa’, ‘Tera Pyaar’ and ‘Bukhaar’, this summer will see the release of the ultimate love song ‘Judaa’. Talking to DesiXpress, Nafees said recording and filming Judaa was an experience he will never forget. “Having been in the music business for a few years now and finding success in the UK market, ‘Judaa’ for me is the first worldwide release which I believe can create an impact globally. It was a lovely experience, being in Dubai and filming the music video there. It’s something I wouldn’t change for the world. I want to thank everyone that has supported me, I couldn’t have done it without them.” British Pakistani artist Nafees has become one of the leading artists in the Asian music industry and an exciting talent with a strong and growing fan base. Having amassed over 14 million YouTube
hits with his first 6 singles, ‘Judaa’ is set to be lucky number 7 with much anticipation around the release. The track will be a familiar style to Nafees’ soulful ballads, a genre he has carved out for himself with his unique sound, style and delivery on each record. ‘Judaa’ is lyrically even stronger and a beautifully composed love song with a catchy melody which will have fans humming and singing along instantly. The release will see a video which spares no exceptions. Shot in Dubai during the summer heat, Nafees sings ‘Judaa’ in front of an exotic backdrop featuring some of the UAE’s most famous landmarks as well as the rich cultural landscape of desert and sea. The video will be premiering on PTC Punjabi worldwide TV network on 31st July, airing in several territories simultaneously. An epic song and epic video, ‘Judaa’ looks set to be Nafees’ biggest hit to date and one which will have people captivated all summer. The single is out to buy on iTunes and digital outlets, racing to number 1 on the iTunes World Music Chart almost immediately.
SHAHID KI SHAADI MITHUN PG. 49
British Asian Artist Set To Release New Single
RETURNS Gongs Galore!
PG. 48
48 DESI XPRESS AUGUST 2015
www.desixpress.co.uk
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
Desixpress movie massala Desixpress mUSIC massala Desixpress movie massala Desixpress mU
******************************************************************** *** SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
BIN ROYE
End of the Road for
‘ZAUGHTY’
Naughty Boy has broken his silence after a Twitter war broke out between himself and One Direction rebel, Zayn Malik. A brief snippet of his music video for 'No Type', also featuring Krept and Konan, mysteriously appeared online, to which Zayn blamed Naughty Boy for releasing. He lashed out at the music producer on Twitter. “@NaughtyBoyMusic you fat joke stop pretending we're friends no one knows you." ~ Zayn Malik "Someone learned how to upload a video... maybe now he should learn how to use logic
SHOWBIZ
Pakistan’s premiere entertainment network, HUM Network organised the red carpet premiere of HUM Films and MD Films debut venture and the most anticipated movie of the year, Bin Roye at the Mayfair Hotel. The much-anticipated film Bin Roye is co-directed by Momina Duraid and Shahzad Kashmiri and produced by Momina Duraid. Bin Roye is an intertwined story of Saba, a hopeless romantic, driven to obsession by her intense feelings for the man of her dreams, Irtaza who has gone abroad and falls for Saman. In a twist of events, Saman ends up in Pakistan at Saba's home while searching for her biological
ha you ain't s**t but a faker." ~ Zayn Malik Naughty Boy responded by saying, "I can deal with what he said, but he knows the hate I've had to endure for him is the bit that upset me," he explained. "Three months ago he was calling me his best friend at the Asian Awards so it's a bit sad. Krept called him and explained that I had nothing to do with [the music video leak]." "He has got a new manager and sometimes things get interfered with," he added.
parents and develops a strong bond with Saba, with whom her friendship grows deeper each day. What follows is a tragic story of regret, remorse and reunion, and a beautiful tale about how love can often bring out the best, and sometimes the worst in us. Bin Roye - a Momina Duraid and HUM Film -- is sure to exceed audiences’ expectations with its engaging script, picture-perfect direction, immaculate production, and unforgettable display of acting and soulful melodies. A one-of its kind romantic movie in the new wave of Pakistani cinema, it will surely leave an everlasting impact on its audiences round the globe.
London Goes Crazy at Film Premiere
Gongs Galore!
NAUGHTY
Indian Cinema Talent Scoop Awards in London
BOYS!
The Bagri Foundation London Indian Film Festival awarded the final tally of awards throughout the festival to recipients which included world class talent, acclaimed South Indian director
MITHUN RETURNS
Mani Ratnam, actress Manisha Koirala, India’s Oscar entry in 1996 and actor Suraj Sharma.
British Asian Artist Set To Release New Single
INTERVIEW
Huma Qureshi TURN TO PAGE #-#
British Asian singer Mithun returns with his new single Khush which releases on August 6th 2015. Mithun, born and raised in London, began singing at the young of 7 when he was introduced to and taught music by his grandfather. Since then Mithun has release 2 singles that released worldwide. This young talent not only sings in Hindi and English but also in Punjabi, Bengali and Korean. Mithun’s passion for music stemmed from a young age where he used to hear his grandfather sing classical music and took
inspiration and guidance. In 2007 he had his first radio debut in London based station, Club Asia and wanted to continue getting his music around the world. Mithun is a talented young artist who not only sings in a variety of languages but also writes the lyrics for his songs. In 2010 he collaborated with the respected music producer and Punjabi Singer Bee 2 for Kaun Hai Voh which was appreciated by a global audience. With Khush ready to be released, Mithun is already working on his EP.
ICON Award © for outstanding contribution to cinema from Sun Mark Ltd went to Mani Ratnam ICON Award © for outstanding contribution to cinema from Sun Mark Ltd went to Mani Ratnam Spirit of Inspiration from Sun Mark Ltd went to Manisha Koirala Pure Heaven Outstanding Young Talent Award went to Suraj Sharma Satyajit Ray Short Film Award in association with the Bagri Foundation went to Khargosh (Rabbit) Lebara Play Audience Award went to Nachom-ia Kumpasar
SHO
www.desixpress.co.uk
WINNERS OF THE 'BEST LOCAL NEWSPAPER' AT THE ASIAN MEDIA AWARDS 2013
AUGUST 2015
DESI 49 XPRESS
USIC Desixpress movie massala Desixpress mUSIC massala Desixpress movie massala Desixpre Desixpress
************************************************************************
OWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ SHOWBIZ SHOW
Nihal Teams Up With Sony Music to Release Compilation Album Sony Music and Asian music aficionado, DJ Nihal Arthanayake have created an alternative soundtrack for the summer of 2015, with the release of an exciting new compilation album – The Asian Collection. The album has over 50 tracks that create an explosive mix of Bollywood and British Asian classics which include artists such as A.R. Rahman, Apache Indian, Punjabi MC, Bally Sagoo, Raghav, Dr Zeus, Jazzy B, Diljit Dosanjh and many more. This is the first time a major label has been able to bring together so many iconic artists and styles together. The album features an impressively wide range of tracks from familiar mainstream artists who have embraced Asian sounds and influences, whilst incorporating traditional instruments.
A.R. Rahman, Apache Indian, Punjabi MC, Bally Sagoo, Raghav, Dr Zeus, Jazzy B, Diljit Dosanjh
WITH KAMAL CHOPRA
KAM CHOPRA
BRINGS BACK
BOLLYWOOD
BROMANCE
1 Sun Sathiya - ABCD 2 Bhar Do Jholi - Bhajrangi Bhaijaan 3 Tu Jo Mile - Bhajrangi Bhaijaan
Riteish Deshmukh Teams Up With Pulkit Samrat The rip-roaring comedy Bangistan - about two blundering terrorists, Riteish Deshmukh and Pulkit Samrat, on a mission to change the world – released this month. It is a fast paced film which follows the stars as they undertake a series of unexpectedly high-energy and entertaining events. Set to be a great success, what are sharp and witty titles like Bangistan saying about writing in Bollywood? Over the last few years there has
5 Chittiyaan Kalayaan - Roy 6 Jee Karda - Badlapur 7 Tu Hai Ke Nahi - Roy 8 Khamoshiyan - Title Song 9 Sooraj Dooba Hai - Roy 10 Katra Katra - Title Song
BHANGRA
Ki Shaadi
THE
Kareena Responds: He Will be a Wonderful Husband
COLLECTION
1
Nafees - Judaa
2
Imran Khan - Imaginary
3
Zack Knight & Raxstar - Queen
4
Diljit Dosanjh - Veer Vaar
5
Kish Dee - Bang Bang
6
Aman Hayer - DJ Vajda
7
Bups Saggu - Miss Kaur
8
Paul Nagra - Paranda
9
Malkit Singh - Godday Godday Cha
10 Jags Klimax - Nazara
UK 1
One Direction - Drag Me On
Calvin Harris - How Deep is Your Love 3 Little Mix - Black Magic 4 Lost Frequencies - Are You With Me 2
THE
RASCALS ARE BACK! New series. New faces. New channel. non-scripted drama series has been commissioned for another batch of Desi delights featuring our favourite multigenerational British-Asian families. Drizzled in drama, glamour and fun, and served up with a Desi sized dollop of heart, the first series won over a dedicated online fan base. So with more still to come from the Shah's, the Vara's, Moses,
4 Gallan Goodiyaan - Dil Dhadakne Do
been a big rise in such quirky films, with the likes of Go Goa Gone, Jolly LLB, Fukrey and Vicky Donor being well received by audiences worldwide. Such films are beginning to highlight the evolution of writing within the Hindi film industry. Not only are these films successful, but strong word of mouth from the audience is causing the message to spread and even create cult followings.
SHAHID
ASIAN
Joining the cast for the second series will be two people who you may already recognise from other TV shows. Jasmin Walia was a regular member of TOWIE for three years. Meanwhile, Solomon Akhtar made it through the final five of The Apprentice in 2014. Created by Gurinder Chadha and Tony Wood, the
TOP10
Anj and others, and not to forget Owais' ego, series two is set to be a stonker. Tony Wood and Gurinder Chadha commented, "Desi Rascals has made us laugh, cry and beam at the TV with pride. We have shown a reality to Britain that has never been seen before and series 2 will allow us to delve further into the captivating world of our families."
Newly married Shahid Kapoor’s exgirlfriend Kareena Kapoor has admitted that he would make a wonderful husband because he is a ‘wonderful person.’ The 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan' actress said that it was the right time for her 34-year-old to get married as he has given some wonderful performances and is content with his career. Saif Ali Khan's wife added that she sees contentment on Shahid's face and he must be happy with the relation as he wouldn't have taken this decision unless he was sure. Kareena and Shahid, co-stars in blockbuster film 'Jab We Met', dated several years ago before Kareena began dating and then married actor Saif Ali Khan.
5 6 7 8 9 10
Shine - Years and Years Sigma FT Ella Henderson - Glitter Ball Walk the Moon – Shut Up & Dance Weeknd - Can't Feel My Face Cheerleader – OMI Show Me Love – Sam Feldt
@desixpress
REPPIN’ IT UP! Mandeep Dhillon and Jalleh Alizadeh will take leading roles in the stage premiere of Meera Syal’s much-loved novel, Anita and Me which opens at Birmingham Repertory in October. Adapted for the stage by Tanika Gupta and directed by Birmingham Repertory Theatre’s artistic director Roxana Silbert, Anita and Me is a warm and touching coming-of-age tale that follows Meena (Mandeep Dhillon), the rebellious teenage daughter of the only Punjabi family in the mining village of Tollington. When she becomes friends with the impossibly feisty Anita (Jalleh Alizadeh), she thinks she’s found her soul mate but her world is turned upside down as she finds herself caught between her two cultures.
Cast Announced for The Rep’s
Anita and Me
50 DESI XPRESS AUGUST 2015
www.desixpress.co.uk
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
Desixpress movie massala Desixpress mUSIC massala Desixpress movie massala Desixpress mU
********************************************************** SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
UNTIL THE SUN COMES UP Canadian pop music star Raghav is set to release his new summer single ‘Until The Sun Comes Up‘. The track features
RAGHAV
Grammy Award winning rapper Nelly, and an exclusive version that features the hip-hop styling of Bollywood superstar Abhishek Bachchan. Of the track Raghav says, “I hope people will look years from now at this song being a singular moment when east and west collaborated in a way that has a true global musical impact. And performing it with Abhishek (who is the most talented human I’ve ever met) and Nelly (who is a legend) make this song even more special to me.” Since announcing the collaboration, social media has
SHOWBIZ
Available to Download
been buzzing with conversation about the three stars teaming up for the big summer single, with thousands of tweets from pop, hip hop and Bollywood music fans around the world. The lyric video has received over 35,000 views in just 24 hours since launching on YouTube. An instant summer anthem ‘Until The Sun Comes Up’ will be accompanied by a powerful full video, set for release in August – highlighting the lack of electricity in Africa. After teaming up with Solar-Aid. org, an international NGO that has the goal of eliminating the kerosene lamp from Africa by the year 2020, Raghav distributed over 300 solar lights to school-age children in the small rural township of Shungubweni, in Tanzania. Raghav purchased the lights to personally deliver them to the community. Segments of Raghav’s trip will be featured in the music video for ‘Until The Sun Comes Up’, with the aim of creating significant social awareness around the topic. The UK release of the single and video is expected mid – late August.
WIN WINWIN
WIN UPTO £400 WORTH • • •
AR RAHMAN
GREATEST HITS LIVE
SATURDAY 15TH AUGUST THE O2, LONDON
2 Tickets Access to The VIP Lounge Access to the after party at Brooklyn Bowl
QUESTION In what movie did AR Rahman’s hit ‘Jai Ho’ feature in: 1) Slumdog Millionaire 2) Who Wants to be Millionaire 3) Kaun Banega Crorepati Please send your answer along with your full name, and email address to: competitions@theasiantoday.com CLOSING DATE: 10TH AUGUST 2015
TERMS AND CONDITIONS The prize is as stated, not transferable to another individual, and no cash or other alternatives will be offered. Winner is responsible for any expenses and arrangements not specifically included in the prize, including travel arrangements and documentation, costs or meals. Failure to respond and/or provide required details by August 10th 2015. O2 Arena reserves the right to amend or alter terms of competitions at any time. The Competition may be modified or withdrawn at any time.
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
*********
SHOWBIZ
4 years ago, Nafees burst on the British Asian Music scene with BUKHAR – and has not looked backed. No-one could have predicted how he would go on to make such a massive impact within the Asian music industry in just a short space of time, without any formal training and without the help of an established record label to promote him. For a brand new artist, this was unheard of. The public were obviously intrigued, but this was just the beginning of the love affair of the fans with the new star which had only just started to shine. The Manchester-born star talks to DesiXpress.
I'M NOT HERE TO COMPETE WITH ANYONE. I'M FOLLOWING MY OWN STEPS AND MY OWN CONVICTION.
Nafe Could Acting Be Next for the Singer?
DX UPCOMING ARTISTS LUCKY RAI
Lucky Rai born and Raised in Gurdaspur district began signing professionally five years ago where he took training from his Guru Ustad Dharamjit Diljani for 2 years in Punjab. He has been inspired by Gurdas Mann and Sardool Sikander and Angrej Ali . Lucky is now living in Glasgow and focusing on his businesses and his singing career, he will be collaborating with producers from UK and Punjab. Lucky Rai who is launching his single with his own label Maahi Records will be also looking to sign other singers
to build a platform for UK and Punjabi Music internationally. You can see Lucky performaing at Edinburgh Mela 30th August. Lucky Rai who was a part of Aman Hayers ‘Entourage’ as a backing vocalist also featured in Angrej Ali’s Honsle video as main lead. This young singer has been pushed by vocal powerhouse Angrej Ali who pushed Lucky to begin singing. Lucky began his musical journey as a writer writing Punjabi songs and now is ready to excel as a singer.
www.desixpress.co.uk
WINNERS OF THE 'BEST LOCAL NEWSPAPER' AT THE ASIAN MEDIA AWARDS 2013
AUGUST 2015
DESI 51 XPRESS
USIC Desixpress movie massala Desixpress mUSIC massala Desixpress movie massala Desixpress
** **********************************************************************
Z
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
Your track is number one in the Asian music charts. What's the secret?
In terms of your singing career, did you have a Guru or Ustaad?
Thank you to everyone that has supported me. God bless you! I couldn't have done it without you guys. Thank you! It's my seventh hit but fifth number one so. I'm not here to compete with anyone. I'm following my own steps and my own conviction. I guess it's just about leaving it to the One above.
No, not really. I've never had anyone who at the beginning of my career gave me any tips with regards to music. But eventually I met up with a few vocal coaches and you get on with them. You have to be able to do that in this industry. If you don't, you're really not fulfilling your potential to the max.
You shot your music video in Dubai. Tell me about that experience. I wouldn't change it for the world. Being out there and experiencing it, it's one I won't forget.
What have you got lined up. Could acting be next? You never know! I've done a few drama courses! I've set a goal and I would like to see some of my music being played in Bollywood and I want to be able to walk away on a high. You get a lot of artists who have given up because they have run out of inspiration or faded out because of the new generation. 2016 I want to give my all. I'm giving my fans a few songs. I want to leave my names among some of the best.
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
You'll have to wait! I'm not the sort of guy that lets people know. Anyone with a secret doesn't want to let their secret away. I've got something up my sleeve.
Artist Nafees with The Asian Today's Surj Kumar
Naughty Words! TURN TO PAGE 48-49
SAMA BLAKE Singer set to release new single Sama Blake has always been passionate about writing songs, as he started writing at a young age sitting in his room. It did not take long for him to realise that writing was not the only talent he possessed, but was also blessed with an amazing voice. In combination with his unique lyrics and voice, Sama Blake won many hearts and gained great recognition in many countries across Europe. Sama Blake wanted to expand and go worldwide. He understood that only one music producer could utilise his great talent and make it happen, that music producer is Eren E. With the help of Eren's music talent, Sama Blake will be looking to start a phenomenal new music trend which will put the world at its feet How did you get to Nafees's launch party? I got a call from Nafees, a few days ago. We were talking about getting back in the studio and he said 'why don't you come and support me at the launch of Judaa'. So I'm here!
Combination with his unique lyrics and voice, Sama Blake won many hearts and gained great recognition in many countries across Europe
4 years ago, Nafees burst on the British Asian Music scene with Bukhar – and has not looked back!
QUEEN OF ALL - ZACK KNIGHT & RAXSTAR TEAM UP Zack Knight and Raxstar team up for a powerhouse collaboration with Queen released through T-Series. A record which has been highly anticipated, Queen finally puts together two highly sought after and respected artists within the British Asian music scene.
SHOWBIZ
So what have you got planned for 2016?
If the time is right then the time is right. Before I started my music, I set goals.
ees
SHOWBIZ
Fresh from his genre busting single Poison, Raxstar is back on form switching from Punjabi to English with confidence and ease. His meaningful bars and unforgettable quotable's sit effortlessly on the infectious "eastern flute meets western beats" soundscape. Handling the outstanding production
duties is Zack Knight himself. After the multiple successes of hit singles including Looking For Love and Nakhre under his belt, he brings his soulful vocals to Queen. He continues to impress with his plethora of talents and showcases an unseen side of his artistry with his Punjabi chorus (co written by Raxstar & GV).
DX www.desixpress.co.uk
You've been out of the scene for a while. What have you got lined up? As you know, I'm from Holland so my studio is based in Holland. But every other day I am in the UK. I've got another gig coming up which is in South America. There are a lot of Indian people in South America and they love Punjabi music! That's in December, so before that I'm releasing another single. It's called Perfect Scene and it's a little different from my previous singles. It's a hip-hop and R'n'B song.
52 DESI XPRESS AUGUST 2015
www.desixpress.co.uk
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
Desixpress movie massala Desixpress mUSIC massala Desixpress movie massala Desixpress mU
******************************************************************** *** SHOWBIZ
With Manish Gajjar Hindi Film Adviser for Vue Cinemas
BOLLYWOOD MOVIE OF THE MONTH
BROTHERS Director: Karan Malhotra Cast: Akshay Kumar, Sidharth Malhotra, Jackie Shroff, Jacqueline Fernandez
Former alcoholic and streetfighter Gary Fernandes, returns home after serving a 10-year prison sentence to find the wounds of the past still haunting his family. His two sons David and Monty who had parted ways as kids are grown men now but are still bitterly estranged. Gary himself carries the burden of his guilt. His elder son, David is an ex-fighter turned school teacher. He and his wife Jenny work hard to make ends meet and to provide the best they can for their ailing daughter Poopoo suffering from a critical kidney condition. Troubled financial circumstances drive a desperate David to return to the world of street fighting. Meanwhile Monty struggles with his lonely complex existence. An alcoholic, he is active in the world of street fighting but lacks focus and determination. He strongly yearns for the acceptance, love and respect of his family. As the story unfolds, we see the journey of these three men, as they seek to find redemption and healing in this moving drama. Directed by Karan Malhotra who earlier made Agneepath (2012), Brothers stars Akshay Kumar and Siddarth Malhotra in leading roles. The film is remake of the Hollywood flick Warrior. At 47 years old we see Akshay Kumar in the film playing a Christian character throwing power pack punches in the boxing ring whilst Sidharth sheds his chocolate boy image in this action drama. This will be Sidharth’s third film with the Dharma productions after his debut Student of The Year and Hasee Toh Phasee.
To read the full article please visit: www.desixpress.co.uk
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
HUMA QURESHI
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
Bollywood actress HUMA QURESHI is currently in London filming the Indian remake of Hollywood movie Occulus. The 29-year-old ‘Dedh Ishqiya’ star met up with The Asian Today’s Bollywood reporter Sunny Malik and discussed her life in the world of Bollywood.
How has it been filming in London so far? I love London. I have been here before a few times while I was a college student. It’s the first time I am here after becoming an actor. I guess it’s different especially because I am filming a movie. London is amazing. The shops are great. I attended The Championships, Wimbledon and it was nice to see Sania Mirza win. I also saw a few musicals and theatres. I love the ones in London as they transport you into another world. When I first came here, I had to plan everything around my budget. Now I had the best seats in the house (laughs).
You have worked in theatre in India. How smooth was the transition? Movies are completely different, from conducting yourself to performance, style, presentation and everything really. Theatre is a far more internal process, at the same time it’s very gratifying. You get an instant reaction as to how people are reacting to your performance. Film on the other hand is a very long process where you have to patient. You also need to be aware of what you did before a scene and what you will have to do afterwards. It’s very technical and you depend on many more people for help.
@SUNNYMALIK REMAKE OF OCULUS The Hollywood movie of Oculus released in 2013 and starts ex-Doctor Who assistant, Karen Gillian. The plot resolves around two adult siblings, Kaylie and Tim, who are now struggling to rebuild their relationship. Haunted by the violent demise of their parents 10 years earlier, Kaylie suspects that their antique mirror, known as the Lasser Glass, is behind the tragedy. The seemingly harmless reflections contain a malevolent, supernatural force that infects the mind of anyone who gazes into it. As Kaylie gets closer to the truth, the siblings become caught in the mirror's evil spell.
Actor, Saqib Saleem has said that the Bollywood remake of the movie will not be a typical horror movie and will have some kind of twist. "We have adapted the original movie and have made considerable changes. The script has the essence of 'Oculus' intact and yet there are a lot of new things. The film won't be like a typical Bollywood horror movie," “I am excited to work with Huma. We kind of stay together, have coffee together, hang out together, talk all the time, but this is the first time we will be acting together. And that too in a horror movie where our characters are very different from what we are, or the relationship we share in real life. It will be very exciting.”
Is it less work than theatre then? Actually it’s more work. I thought being a film actress will be an easy and glamorous job. No one told me that it will be such a hard job. I should have just run my Dad’s Kebab shop in Delhi (laughs).
Is it not more difficult to break into conventional films now? Not really. I get offered conventional roles a lot. However, I want to do the right role. I don’t want to do a film where I have to run around a tree because everyone else thinks that I should do it. I believe that I have only grown with every film. I don’t want to step down and just do something for the sake of it.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE
WWW.DESIXPRESS.CO.UK
www.desixpress.co.uk
MULTI AWARD WINNING NEWSPAPER - BRINGING YOU NEWS SINCE 2002
AUGUST 2015
DESI 53 XPRESS
USIC Desixpress movie massala Desixpress mUSIC massala Desixpress movie massala Desixpress
************************************************************************ SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
SHOWBIZ
UPCOMING
SHOWBIZ
DRAMA
FILMS
SHOWBIZ
THRILLER
CALENDAR GIRLS The film focuses on five girls who hail from different regions of India, and who have been selected to pose for the country's most prestigious annual calendar which is a joint effort between business tycoon Rishabh Kukreja and his photographer friend Timmy Sen.
Director: Madhur Bhandarkar Cast: Akanksha Puri, Avani Modi, Kyra Dutt, Ruhi Singh and Satarupa Pyne
THE GIFT
When married couple Simon (Jason Bateman) and Robyn (Rebecca Hall) unexpectedly encounter Gordo (Joel Releasing Edgerton), an acquaintance from Simon's past, little do 7th August they know that their perfect lives will be thrown into a 2015 terrifying tailspin. At first, Simon doesn't recognize Gordo, but after a troubling series of uninvited encounters and mysterious gifts, a horrifying secret emerges.
Releasing 14th August 2015
Director: Guy Richie Cast: Henry Cavill, Alicia Vikander and Armie Hammer
In the early 1960s, CIA agent Napoleon Solo and KGB operative Illya Kuryakin participate in a joint mission against a mysterious criminal organization, which is working to proliferate nuclear weapons
Releasing 21sr August 2015
Director: Jake Schreier Cast: Nat Wolff, Cara Delevingne, Halston Sage, Austin Abrams
Releasing 14th August 2015
AMERICAN ULTRA
Releasing
All Is Well is an upcoming Bollywood family drama film is about a road trip undertaken by Rishi Kapoor and Abhishek Bachchan, who are later joined by Abhishek's mother.
Director: Joel Edgerton Cast: Joel Edgerton, Jason Bateman, Rebecca Hall
ROMANCE
THE MAN FROM U.N.C.L.E
Director: Aleksander Bach Cast: Zachary Quinto, Rupert Friend, Clarian Hinds
Brothers is the hard-hitting actiondrama surrounding a broken family forced to face up to one another mentally and physically, all within the world of mixed martial arts and underground street fighting. The film stars one of India’s most reputed actors Akshay Kumar (a martial artist, who has launched stars such as Kylie Minogue, Snoop Dogg and Sylvester Stallone in Bollywood) and emerging star Siddharth Malhotra. The film is a co-production between Endemol India and one of India’s leading production companies, Dharma Productions. Anticipation around the release of “Brothers” is mounting given the union of an esteemed cast and crew.
Director: Umesh Shukia Cast: Abhishek Bachchan, Asin, Rishi Kapoor, and Supriya Pathak
HORROR
HITMAN: AGENT 47
Releasing 14th August 2015
ALL IS WELL
SHOWBIZ SHOWBIZ
HOLLYWOOD MOVIES
BROTHERS Director: Karan Malhotra Cast: Akshay Kumar, Sidharth Malhotra, Jacqueline Fernandez and Jackie Shroff
SHOWBIZ
COMEDY
BOLLYWOOD MOVIES
Releasing 7th August 2015
SHOWBIZ
Releasing 17th August 2015
TRAINWRECK
Director: Judd Apatow Cast: Amy Schumer, Bill Hader, Briw Larson, Colin Quinn, John Cena, Tilda Swinton, LeBron James Ever since her father drilled into her head that monogamy isn't realistic, magazine writer Amy (Amy Schumer) has made promiscuity her credo. As much as she enjoys an uninhibited life free of commitment, Amy is really in a rut. While writing a profile about charming and successful sports doctor Aaron Conners (Bill Hader), she finds herself actually falling in love for the first time -- and what's more, Aaron seems to like her too. Amy starts to wonder if it's time to clean up her act.
Hitman: Agent 14 centres 27th August on an elite assassin 2015 who was genetically engineered from conception to be the perfect killing machine, and is known only by the last two digits on the barcode tattooed on the back of his neck. He is the culmination of decades of research – and forty-six earlier Agent clones -- endowing him with unprecedented strength, speed, stamina and intelligence. His latest target is a mega-corporation that plans to unlock the secret of Agent 47’s past to create an army of killers whose powers surpass even his own. Teaming up with a young woman who may hold the secret to overcoming their powerful and clandestine enemies, 47 confronts stunning revelations about his own origins and squares off in an epic battle with his deadliest foe.
PAPER TOWNS
Young and shy Quentin (Nat Wolff) is in for the night of his life when Margo (Cara Delevingne), the most popular student in high school, recruits him to help her play mischievous pranks on the friends who betrayed her. The next day, however, the mysterious Margo is nowhere to be found. With help from a few buddies and some cryptic clues that she left behind, Quentin embarks on an obsessive mission to find the girl who stole his heart and made him feel truly alive.
PIXELS
Director: Chris Columbus Cast: Adam Sandler, Kevin James and Michelle Monaghan
When aliens intercept video feeds of classic arcade games and Releasing misinterpret them as a declaration 12th August of war, they attack Earth, using the 2015 games as models. Knowing that he must employ a similar strategy, President Will Cooper (Kevin James) recruits his childhood pal, former videogame champ and home-theater installer Sam Brenner (Adam Sandler), to lead a team of old-school arcade players and a military specialist (Michelle Monaghan) in an all-out battle to save the planet.
Director: Nima Nourizadeh
g Releasin ust g u A th 8 2 2015
Cast: Jesse Eisenberg, Kristen Stewart, Topher Grace, Connie Britton, Tony Hale, John Leguizamo, & Bill Pullman, American Ultra is a fastpaced action comedy about Mike (Jesse Eisenberg), a seemingly hapless and unmotivated stoner whose small-town life with his live-in girlfriend, Phoebe (Kristen Stewart), is suddenly turned upside down. Unbeknownst to him, Mike is actually a highly trained, lethal sleeper agent. In the blink of an eye, as his secret past comes back to haunt him, Mike is thrust into the middle of a deadly government operation and is forced to summon his inner action-hero in order to survive. Lionsgate presents Palmstar Media Capital and Kevin Frakes present a Likely Story production a Palmstar Entertainment and New Circle of Confusion production in association with Merced Media Partners in association with Nechamka Productions and The Bridge Finance Company.
54
AUGUST 2015
WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM
ADVERT
THE ASIAN TODAY IT’S BIGGER THAN YOU THINK.
Bollywood
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
NEWS
and the College An Undeniably Attractive Affair
What a fun filled day staff in the College of North West London had on Friday 10 July 2015! From ‘Making Smoothies’, ‘Try Drumming’ to ‘Bollywood Dance’, staff enjoyed being part of the development activities with a twists and turns of a day quite unlike any other. If you picked Bollywood Dance workout, you were greeted with the charismatic instructor Kalpesh Zalavadiya from K’z Dance Entertainment
(www.kzdance.co.uk), upbeat music, lots of laugh and excited staff, eager to be transported into the rich and wonderful world of Indian music. As the effortlessly talented Kalpesh patiently explained intricate steps of fast, storytelling choreography, you could be forgiven for thinking that this is how the musicals come to life – wonderful journey of an intangible idea to performing stage with dancers and alluring music. But in the mist of lively
Jas Sansi's Scribbles
dance move rehearsals, you could feel the body muscles being challenged in the process and discreetly reminded that Bollywood dancing is also a healthy exercise. The hands stretching, hips shaking, gliding footwork and sharp commanding turns, engaged the staff in one of the happiest, energetic and embracing workouts ever. "We can’t wait for the next Bollywood workshop from K'z Dance Entertainment again" says Elvira Cosic.
Twitter: @Jassansi
YOUR MONTHLY SHOWBIZ FIX! GOSSIP • INTERVIEWS • MUSIC • MOVIES - & MUCH MORE! TURN TO PAGE 47
AUGUST 2015
Police Caution After Online Conviction of Duo
W
omen are once again being urged to lead the fight against terrorism at home and abroad. The renewed plea from the West Midlands Counter Terrorism Unit comes following the trial of a Hounslow woman for a terror offence. Angela Shafiq – 22 – was arrested in June last year by detectives investigating Birmingham friends, Mohammed Nahim Ahmed and Yusuf Sarwar who travelled to Syria to join
online relationship with Ahmed over a period of months during which she both encouraged and assisted him in his preparations to travel to Syria. The pair had never met in person yet she praised him for being an individual who was prepared to act and not just talk about his plans. Details of the conversations, along with all of the information from the investigation, were put to the Crown Prosecution Service who decided that
Southern is one of the UK’s most senior counter terrorism officers and head of the West Midlands Counter Terrorism Unit. Speaking about the case of Angela Shafiq she said: "As a unit we aim to prevent tragedies at home and abroad, this case demonstrates the ongoing challenge of individuals forming online relationships with those inspired to travel and join terrorist groups in both Syria and Iraq. "Our experiences show us
Women Urged to Lead Terrorism Fight Islamist rebel forces. The 22-year-olds were arrested when they returned to the UK in January 2014 having been in Syria for eight months. The pair were later jailed for a combined total of 25 years and two months. As part of the investigation, detectives found conversations between Ahmed and Shafiq through online videos, instant messaging services and Skype. Shafiq had formed an
there were grounds to charge Shafiq. Her case was heard at London’s Old Bailey this week where the jury today (31 July 2015) found Shafiq – of Orchid Gardens, Hounslow - guilty of engaging in conduct in preparation for terrorist acts. Following today’s verdict, Shafiq was remanded into custody – she is due to be sentenced on 8 September. Detective Chief Superintendent Sue
THE BIDGLEY POWER FOUNDATION PRESENTS
Our experiences show us that mothers and sisters are often the first to notice changes in the behaviour of their loved ones - be they sons, daughters, siblings or friends
that mothers and sisters are often the first to notice changes in the behaviour of their loved ones - be they sons, daughters, siblings or friends.
SUPPORTED BY
CELEBRATING YOUR TALENT INDEPENDENT AWARDS
HOST
SAIMA AJRAM (BBC ASIAN NETWORK)
BLACK TIE EVENT
HOST
RUBY RAZA (LYCA RADIO)
55
56
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015
THE ASIAN TODAY Babar Ahmad Released
• RELEASED: Babar Ahmed was
sentenced 12-years in a US Jail
A British man who was sentenced to 12 years in a US jail after admitting to setting up pro-Jihadi websites, has returned to the UK after being released. Baber Ahmad travelled back to his family in south London just in time to celebrate Eid. His had been extradited to the US, last July, after losing a long-fought battle and spending over 10 years in a British jail on charges that his website was being used to raise funds and recruit fighters for terrorist groups. The 41-year-old was released early after the judge ruled he had already served his time. His family released a statement saying the last 11 years had been difficult. Ahmed added, “Eleven years of solitary
FOURTH BLOGGER HACKED TO DEATH
Attackers, who were, armed with machetes have killed a blogger in Bangladesh. Niloy Chatterjee, 40, became the fourth victim of religious extremism in less than six months. The blogger, who advocated secularism, was killed in his flat in the capital Dhaka, said police official Mustafizur Rahman. "We are speechless. He was demanding justice for the killing of other bloggers," said Imran Sarker, head of a network of activists and bloggers. "Who will be next for demanding justice for Niloy?" Chatterjee, who used the pen-name Niloy Neel, was a critic of religious extremism that led to bombings in mosques and the killing of civilians. Chatterjee was also one of hundreds of bloggers driving a movement demanding the death penalty for Islamist leaders accused of atrocities in Bangladesh's 1971 war of independence.
confinement and isolation in 10 different prisons has been an experience too profound to sum up in a few words here and now. “Today, I have absolutely nothing. Yet I am rich. All praise be to God.” “In time, I look forward to sharing reflections on my experience to help inform others. I recognise that the world has moved on since 2004, yet in some ways, sadly it has failed to progress.” “For now, I intend to reconnect privately with my incredible family, to whom I owe so much. “It was a great joy to celebrate Eid with them for the first time in 11 years and to hug three of my nieces and nephews whom I had never met before. It has been a long time.”
NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL
NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL Police Confirm Identity of Victim
Huddersfield Gurdwara Death DO YOU HAVE A NEWS STORY? GET IN TOUCH WITH US TODAY!
POLICE APPEAL:
ROBBERY Police are appealing for information to identify a woman who tricked her way into an elderly woman’s home in Leeds and stole her purse. The 84-year-old victim was walking back from the shops when the woman approached her. She offered to help her pull her wheeled shopping bag. As they walked along towards the victim’s home, the woman asked if she could use her toilet. As she was being shown to the toilet, she made an excuse to return to the kitchen where the victim had left her bag. She paid a brief visit to the toilet and then left the house. The victim later noticed her purse had been taken from her bag.
D
etectives investigating death at a Sikh Temple in Huddersfield have named the victim. West Yorkshire Police confirmed the identity of the woman as 41-year-old Harjinder Kaur Sidhu from Huddersfield. A man arrested on suspicion of manslaughter has been released on
police bail following the incident. Officers were called to Prospect Street, Huddersfield around 13.11pm following reports of an altercation between two females age 70 years and 41 years. Following the incident, the 41-year-old female made off and was detained by a male inside the Temple.
The 41-year-old female became unwell and was treated by paramedics. She was pronounced deceased a short time later. A 48-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and has been released on police bail. The 70-year-old female was taken to Huddersfield Royal Infirmary with minor injuries.
HANGED: Outrage as Shafqat Hussain is Executed Human rights groups have blasted Pakistani authorities after going ahead with an execution of a man who is said to have been tortured for an execution. Shafqat Hussain executed in Pakistan, despite widespread calls both within and outside the country for a stay. The governments of the Sindh and Azad Kashmir regions, the Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC), UN experts, and international
NGOs had all called for the hanging to be halted in order for an investigation to take place into Shafqat’s young age when he was sentenced, and the reliance by prosecutors on a “confession” extracted through torture. Despite the calls, the Pakistan authorities have never undertaken a proper, judicial investigation into either issue, instead seizing and refusing to release key evidence such as Shafqat’s school record, which
could have provided proof that he was under 18 when he was sentenced to death. The SHRC, headed by a former Supreme Court judge, questioned how he could “be executed when there is so much confusion and the evidence is lacking,” and declared the only inquiry carried out by the government into his age to be “inadmissible.” Amnesty International called it a ‘sad day for Pakistan.’
ADVERT
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015
57
AUGUST 2015
58
WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM
THE ASIAN TODAY Author: Sara Khan Twitter: @sarakblog Facebook: /sarakblog website: www.sarakblog.com
TOPAFFORDABLE DESIGNER 3 COLLECTIONS ONLINE I
f you’ve been looking for the latest practical fashion look no further. I've selected my top 3 affordable fashion picks for you this summer. They are trendy, affordable and practical even if you’re looking for something to wear to dinner, out with friends or evening dinner party.
SANA SAFINAZ
MARIA B.
ZAHEER ABBAS
www.sanasafinaz.com
www.mariab.pk
www.zaheerabbas.net
The Sana Safinaz website you can purchase found unstitched suits or readymade silk tunics. The British Asian fusion look is prominent in the SS15 silk collection and priced generously as most of the kameezes range between 52 GBP and 110 GBP.
Maria. B's latest collection features digital prints inspired by France, Morocco, Greece and Persia. Our favourites had to be the lawn jacket suits, which are not only on trend but contrasting colours and prints add that Pakistani fashion fusion many of you are searching for. And at 35 to 38 GBP the unstitched suits are reasonably priced.
Zaheer Abbas’ Printology collection was featured on the recent Pakistan Fashion Week and is slightly pricier but for 200 GBP you’re not just purchasing seasonal clothing but a classic piece. You can wear the jacket inside out, with jeans, trousers, dress it up, dress it down, dress it in, dress it out and well you get the idea. If it is out of budget, not to worry Zaheer Abbas offers an affordable lawn collection of kurtas fewer than 40 GBP.
WITH OUTHOUSE A
s you all know, accessorising is key to turn an average outfit into a showstopper. Join me ladies! l invite you to a special serving of jewels, a dash
of gems and a slice of elegance. And I'm sure you'll all appreciate the fine work that's gone into the delectable dish of dazzling jewellery.
FASHIO
LOOK LIKE A
LEADING LADY
Leading lady Mahira Khan looked stunning at Bin Roye movie premiere in London. She wore a black sheer panelled frock; thin gold waist belt paired with gorgeous black heels and topped off beautifully with gold clutch. The hair was side parted, lowered bun and finished off with statement royal red lipstick.
Hi! Im Rav Deol and I would like to welcome you to my brand new beauty column! I am a busy full-time Mum of one, a professional beautician, hair and make-up artist, a professional mehndi artist for the last 18 years and…a solicitor to boot! I think that’s as diverse as it gets!
FB: /RavDeolMehndi Email: info@ravdeol.com IG: /ravdeolthequeenwithinyou Tel: 07506336877
LIP LOVE!
Balms, tints, glosses and lippies, we definitely love love love lipwear in any form - picking flattering shades from across the spectrum means finding lippies in different hues that look great on us. There are some amazing shades worthy of our love which flatter almost any skin tone and there is every reason to start experimenting if you don’t already. Being a walking advertisement for the same shade of lipstick for too long is a bit like watching one of those Asian dramas my Mum watches…I just can’t do it! If you’re stuck in a lippy time warp, now is the time to ditch the drab and dazzle with something new and exciting! Nude, pink, coral, orange or lavender, it’s definitely lip love time on my watch!
Christian Dior Rouge Dior Nude Lipstick in Grege – This is a classic and must have shade. Moisture rich and soft, the beautiful and neutral shade is a sure fire winner to pull together any understated, less-is-more look. A winner, CD never, ever fails to impress and I love this evergreen, subtle lipstick.
Photo Credit: Shahid Malik
DELECTABLE JEWELLERY
FASHION & BEAUTY
1. For starters we recommend planning your look, review your rings and earrings. 2. ...then, moving on to the mains, depending on your outfits, pick one chucky jewellery item (gold or silver) depending on the colours of your garment. 3. ...and, if you're still not satisfied, there’s always dessert such as, a simple clutch that compliments your outfit. Heels can make a big difference too.
NARS Audacious Lipstick in Angela – A gorgeous, gorgeous, GORGEOUS cool and sassy shade, it has amazing coverage and although very vivid is completely flattering – LOVE! Boho or ultra groomed, this shade will set of almost any look and is very kind to most skin tones, it will most certainly inveigle its way into your make up kit given half a chance!
Tom Ford Lip Colour in True Coral – One (typographically incorrect but perfect for required emphasis) word: B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L! if you indulge in one coral this season, make it THIS! It is exceptionally creamy and smooth in application and this shade is divine. Again, compliments an array of skin tones and wears with a gorgeous sheen. Splurge, believe me, it is completely and utterly worth it. I have absolutely no doubt at all that you will love these lip treats as much as I do and I would love to hear your reviews. Why not let me know what’s trending in your kit right now?
Body Perfect Personal Training ensures you get the optimum workout experience and we are dedicated in helping you achieve your results. Your individualised plan will include strategies to overcome obstacles and develop a positive mental attitude which will gear you towards achieving your health and fitness goals.
WEBSITE: WWW.BODYPERFECTPT.COM TWITTER: DALDHALIWALPT FACEBOOK: /DAL DHALIWAL
Our Personal Training service is available at our prestigious studio situated in the heart of Warwickshire or alternatively try our excellent Online Training service.
“Our mission is to help busy women to feel good, gain confidence, build on their self-esteem and to be the best possible version of themselves.” - Dal Dhaliwal
Body Perfect Personal Training delivers an experience that is unique, personalised and we are 100% committed in helping you reach your goals!
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
FASHION & BEAUTY
ON & BEAUTY
Visitors Flock to UK’s Biggest Exhibition on Muslim Lifestyle
MUSLIM LIFESTYLE
EXPO 2015 T
housands of visitors have taken part in one of the UK’s biggest-ever showcase of Muslim lifestyle and fashion. The Muslim Lifestyle Expo 2015 saw guests from across the country coming together to celebrate the contribution made by Muslim
businesses, start-ups and . entrepreneurs to the UK economy and society. The two-day event featured a live modest fashion show directed by creative director, Zaf Shabir, live comedy by stars Guzzy Bear and Sadia Azmat with entertainment from global
AUGUST 2015
59
DAL
GET FIT WITH
D H A L I W A L
Dal Dhaliwal is UK’s first Indian Female Health and Fitness Coach to launch a private fitness gym. She is also a Health and Fitness TV Presenter. Dal has been working in the wellness Industry since 1998. She will teach you strategies to overcome obstacles and develop a positive mental attitude, and will share with you methods on how you too can follow a healthy lifestyle which includes exercise, correct nutrition and wellbeing.
Fitness Tips for Brides
nasheed artists J u n a i d Jamshed and Saif Adam. The event saw a number of sectors coming together under one platform at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry including fashion, food and drink, travel, health & beauty and finance. It attracted over 80 exhibitors from across the world including Malaysia, South Africa, Norway, Singapore and Turkey. Tahir Mirza, founder of the Muslim Lifestyle Expo, said “We are delighted with the entire event and the amazing feedback we received from those who attended and exhibited. “The Muslim Lifestyle Expo 2015 is an excellent example of the important role that the entire Muslim community plays in today’s society and fostering community relations. “The event was also a good showcase of how the UK is facilitating business across the world. “We would like to thank all those who attended, exhibited and played a part making it so successful.” Exhibitors who attended the event included international super brand Tesla Motors, Moslema in Style and Dzaltastic from Malaysia, Nasim's Baby Food from Norway, Aegean Dream Homes of Turkey, and Kepourel, a fashion label from Belgium. The Expo attracted sponsors such as Al Rayan Bank, Human Appeal International, Penny Appeal, British Muslim TV, Brunei Halal and ieat foods with Zoe’s children’s Hospice in Coventry as the nominated charity.
Every bride wants to look her best on the most important day of her life – and to look stunning in her dress for her special day. Are you getting married and do you feel you are limited to choice of wedding dresses because of your figure? Perhaps you feel you have to cover up because your arms are flabby? Or maybe you cannot reveal your back because that is flabby too? Or maybe you would love to wear a fitted figure hugging wedding dress/ gown but cannot because the dress of your dreams does not fit or look right on you? Does this leave you feeling disheartened? Do you want to look and feel absolutely WOW on your Special Day? If you follow some of my basic Tips then you will fit into the dress of your dreams. Not only will you get into shape and feel confident on your wedding day – you will also feel amazing for your honeymoon! TIP One - Plan and prepare and think positively! Set yourself a goal and have a clear vision of how much weight you want to lose for the wedding. Have a set workout plan. If your main goal is to lose weight I recommend to get started with your exercise plan at least 6 months before the big day. Envision yourself fitting into your wedding dress you just bought or that bikini for your beach honeymoon holiday. Taking these small steps will really help you to reach your ultimate goal. Change your mind-set and think positively - you can achieve almost anything if you believe in yourself. Tell yourself you're an amazing person and you will achieve your goal and looking amazing on your big day. TIP Two - You are what you eat! Correct nutrition is very important when wanting to lose fat, sculpt and tone the body. You will get better and quicker results if you combine health eating with your exercise routine. A fitter body is not about starving yourself, it’s simply about making the right choices and organised when it comes to what and when you eat. It’s essential to eat natural real foods - Keep clear of processed foods, sugars and salts. Start your day with a healthy protein based breakfast such as porridge, scrambled eggs or omelettes with spinach. Replace all sugary drinks
and coffees with water – water is essential for good health and weight loss. TIP Three – Get moving! Include Interval training - short bursts of high intensity training (HIIT) into your workout routine. Weight training will also help brides to get a leaner, tighter, sculpted body. Lifting weights will help to combat those lose wobbly parts and areas of your body. Remember to keep consistent with your training and nutrition.
If you are really at a loss where to start and are very low on motivation then invest in a personal trainer. Having the one-to-one guidance and support of a fitness professional could make all the difference when it comes to those pre-wedding fitness goals. Personal Trainers can help you to keep motivated and you will feel a lot more confident in using the free weights and machines in the gym. You could also try partnering up with your fiancé – and try workouts together such as bootcamp , a class or maybe jogging. This will help you both feel and look good for your big day and honeymoon!
YOU CAN TWEET DAL YOUR QUESTIONS TWITTER: @DALDHALIWALPT FIND HER ON FACEBOOK: /DAL DHALIWAL WWW.BODYPERFECTPT.COM
60
AUGUST 2015
Food & Travel
THE ASIAN TODAY SUN, SEA, SAND AND SEAFOOD
PR supremo and food blogger Anita Champaneri brings her blog Ms Delicious PR and all things food to The Asian Today. Bringing all the news from hot restaurants to cool bars and everything in between. blog: www.msdeliciouspr.blogspot.com Whilst most of us are thinking about sun, sea and sand, Birmingham’s culinary scene is thinking about seafood! Two openings this month have seen the long awaited Nosh and Quaff take shape on Colmore Row and Vivaanta light up the Mailbox canal out of no-where.
NOSH & QUAFF Nosh and Quaff is the latest venture to be launched by the Lasan Group at 130 Colmore Row and adds to a growing food scene in that part of the city. After a £1 million refit, the previously derelict Colmore Row building is set to become one of the most prominent restaurants in the Colmore Bid area. It already borders Pure Bar and Kitchen, Chung Ying Central, The Bureau, The Lost and Found, and The Botanist to name but a few. Whilst we assume lobster is the height of luxury, Nosh and Quaff plans to make it an “everyday dish”, pricing a whole lobster and chip at £20 and serving lobster rolls for lunch. There are half a dozen regular items on the menu including ribs, burgers, crab claws and hot dogs.
So expect lots of smokehouse favourites and the best of surf and turf. The whole vibe is dirty glam and a must visit for a raucous night out.
Internet Craze Over Recipe Page
CURRY ON
HALIMA! TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF
I grew up in Slough but now live in Rhos-on-Sea, North Wales. I am forever cooking because I love it, it's my real passion. I love cooking for others, whether it's creamy scrambled eggs for breakfast or haleem and biryani for large gatherings. I especially love the traditional authentic recipes of Pakistan. TELL ME ABOUT CURRY ON HALIMA
I started a Facebook page, called Curry on Halima, at the end of December 2014 and within six hours of the page going live, I had over 2000 followers! I wanted a name that would be recognised by everyone, not just Asians, so I took the idea from the classic Carry On films. WHAT MADE YOU SET UP YOUR RECIPES ON FACEBOOK? I initially started posting recipes on the Muslim Mamas
2015
with coconut milk and coriander, it really does taste as exquisite as it sounds. A fine dining Indian restaurant is just what’s missing from the Mailbox/Cube complex and with an extensive fine wine list and cocktail menu, this is sure to be a firm favourite for those who enjoy the finer things in life.
Get more food news on twitter @deliciouspr & on the web : www.msdeliciouspr.blogspot.com
•
Halima Saleem, Founder of 'Curry on Halima'
foodie group; they became really popular with other members, who kept pushing me to set up a page, so I finally caved in. WHAT KIND OF RECIPES DO YOU OFFER? The majority of my recipes are of Pakistani origin, a variety of biryanis, karahi dishes, lots of different types of kebabs. I have many recipes in my repertoire that I picked up during holidays to Pakistan.
Halima Saleem is an average mother. Staying at home, one day she decided to create a Facebook page and publishing food recipes – she spoke to The Asian Today about how things took a turn for the best since then. Simple dishes that are served in the roadside dhaabas, desified, Chinese dishes served in restaurants and simple rustic food I ate in the mountainous regions of Baltistan, Kohistan and Gilgit. HOW CAN PEOPLE GET THEIR RECIPE REQUESTS TO YOU? Recipe requests can be sent through the Facebook page - Curry On Halima or via my email address - halimasaleem@ hotmail.co.uk
Scene Dining Makes A Splash
English
VIVAANTA Vivaanta is a new Indian restaurant on the other side of the city having taken over the site of the old Kinaree Thai. Lit up in red black and white, the floor to ceiling windows lets lots of light in as well as providing great views of the Mailbox and the Cube. Vivaanta means ‘to live well’ and the team have taken traditional Indian cooking and put an artistic twist on it to create this innovative seafood and spice restaurant. As well as your classic chicken and lamb dishes, it’s a predominantly seafood menu. You can enjoy a vast array of delights from the ocean including lobster, prawns, scallops, sea bream, seabass, crab and monkfish. The highlight is a spectacular slow-cooked Lobster dish. Sautéed in olive oil with spilt mustard seeds, crushed garlic, shallots and chillies, reduced in a sweetened plum tomato stock and finished
FOOD & TRAVEL
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
31st August 2015 Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel
BOOK NOW
A trendy and novel new restaurant has made a splash on the Indian cuisine scene in Manchester. Scene Dining, based in the city's exclusive Spinningfields quarter, has fast become renowned for its authentic street food and has been overwhelmed with wedding and mehndi bookings despite having opened its doors only two months ago. Managing director, Asif Ali, said they have been inundated with positive responses. “Customers are doing the marketing for us! They
come to eat and then tag us on photos on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter when they share their food selfies!” A family-run business seating 150 people with an additional capacity of 120 in the garden terrace, Scene Dining completes its novel appeal with a theatrical atmosphere, rustic décor and vintage Bollywood posters. “Many Indian restaurants fuse their dishes to accommodate a milder palate. We have brought authenticity back to Indian food,” Asif said.
“Street food is so popular in India and Pakistan. We have brought those dishes here to Manchester. “Our recipes are authentic. We haven’t adapted those recipes. Customers love the
thalis, pani pooree and all the chaats. “We also have traditional dishes on the menu which are firm favourites. We want it to be an extraordinary experience for the customer.”
www.lovecurry.info For sponsorship or table bookings please contact our events team on 0844 8793 256 or email events3@oceanicconsulting.co.uk
Sponsors Goldstar Chefs
Saffron
Recruitment and Home Office Sponsor Licensing
&7&/54 6,
Specialists to Britain’s Asian Restaurant Industry
Print Partner
Charity Partner
Media Partner
Facebook: English Curry Awards Twitter: @OceanicEvents
Event Organiser
CALAIS MIGRANT CRISIS he European Commission has offered to help France and Britain deal with the ongoing migrant crisis at the Channel Tunnel. The EC said in a statement that it would send a first instalment of financial assistance to France of 20 million euros, after some 600 fresh attempts, by migrants, were made to penetrate the tunnel,. People have been desperate to reach Britain and have made attempt after attempt to breach the Eurotunnel defences in order to enter the country. A Sudanese man in his 30s died, apparently crushed to death by a lorry, and at least 10 people have been killed
since June trying to get to Britain where many already have family and work is perceived as easier to find. Britain has already received 27 million euros. "This comes from the total of over 266 million euros earmarked for France and over 370 million euros earmarked for the UK for the period covering 201420," Avramopoulos said in a statement. “At this stage, neither France nor the UK have requested additional assistance and I have full trust in their ability to manage the situation,” he added. "The European Borders Agency, Frontex, can help identify and register migrants, collaborate with countries of
origin and transit to speed up the issuing of travel documents for return, and coordinate and finance joint return operations," Avramopoulos said. Prime Minister David Cameron announced new measures to crack down on illegal immigrants and came under fire last week for comments in which he referred to migrants as “swarms” of people seeking to get into the country.
“
At least 10 people have been killed since June trying to get to Britain.
• IN CRISIS: Migrants waiting in Calais, desperate to reach Britain
“
T
PIA FINED AUGUST 2015
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
FOOD & TRAVEL
61
FOR VIOLATING AIRPORT RULES Airline Already Has Outstanding Fines from Five Other Countries
P
Leg Adjustable Seats on Planes Cramped aeroplane journeys could be a thing of the past thanks to a new “legroom adjustable” plane seat, which can be moved backwards or forwards dependent on your height.
The revolutionary seat designed by B/E Aerospace, who describe themselves as a "world leading" manufacturer of cabin interior products, has adjustable wheels that sit on tracks in the cabin floor. The device enables the seats to be pushed backwards or forwards meaning that long-legged passengers may gain a few more inches of much needed leg room if they are sitting in front of a child
or shorter-legged person, the Telegraph reports. Cabin crew will control the movement of seats, most likely with a tablet or smart phone, while passengers would need to inform airlines of their height at check-in. In plans submitted to patent the idea, designers have said that a “one size fits all” attitude to airline passengers is outdated.
! n w o d h Touc Emirates, has commenced its third daily service to Birmingham. Flight EK41 from Dubai arrived at Birmingham International Airport on August 1, 2015, at 0705hrs, UK time. On board the inaugural flight of this service were passengers originating from more than 15 different cities to Birmingham. The flight also brought a First Class experience direct to Birmingham in a first for
the region. Laurie Berryman, Vice President, UK, at Emirates, said: “Birmingham is an important international business hub, and the wider Midlands region is a leading tourist destination. Increasing our capacity in Birmingham will improve the city’s global connectivity and give customers across our network and in the Midlands greater
flexibility in their travel plans. “We are also delighted to be the first airline to offer First Class to the region, with the introduction of our acclaimed First Class Private Suites on board the new third daily service. It is a positive sign for the state of the region’s economy and we are confident that there will be strong demand for First Class services among Birmingham passengers.”
EMIRATES’ THIRD DAILY SERVICE LANDS IN BIRMINGHAM
akistan’s main airline has been fined by a French airport after it was found guilty to violating ‘curfew hours’ at the airport. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has been handed a €40,000 by the Paris Airport Authority which recently wrote a letter to the airline during a Lahore to Paris flight last September. The PIA flight landed and took off in curfew hours. According to a source, the Paris Airport Authority has warned PIA to strictly follow its rules and avoid such violations in the future. PIA spokesman Aamir Memon said a PIA flight from Lahore to Paris got delayed last September because of a technical issue. “The PIA flight had to land and take off during the curfew hours at the Paris airport because of this reason.” The Pakistani airline has yet to clear its fine by the General Authority of Civil Aviation of Saudi Arabia regarding air navigation charges. These amounted to more
than 5 million in connection with Air Navigation invoices have been pending since February this year. The Saudi aviation authority had stressed on early settlement of outstanding dues. The national flag carrier has already lost most of its business on profitable routes. Very few lucrative business routes are available and Jeddah is one of them. Pakistan's national carrier is often embroiled into controversies, scandals and allegations of mismanagement, corruption and inefficiency. Last year, the carrier sacked 350 employees, including pilots and air hostesses, for having faked their educational qualifications. Also, in September last year, the entire crew of a PIA flight from London to Lahore was detained by customs officials for six hours for allegedly smuggling 24 iPhones worth about Rs 2.5 million and also foreign currency.
Specialists in
LOW COST FLIGHTS TO PAKISTAN!
‘Unclaimed’ Compensation
T
ravellers are missing out on millions of pounds worth of compensation when their flights are delayed, a consumer group has found. An investigation by Which? discovered that, between June 2014 and May 2015, 37 million passenger journeys to or from the UK were delayed by 15 minutes or more. About 900,000 people could be eligible to claim compensation for this, but Which? found that only around 38 per cent - or four in 10 people – actually do. Passengers delayed by more than three hours are entitled to £422 in compensation. But the study showed that half of those delayed said they received no support or information about the delay from the airline.
• We aim to bring you great flight prices, whatever your destination. • We use a variety of airlines to find you the best deal. • We can provide tailor made packages and visa facilities. • We also specialise in Hajj & Umrah Tour packages. Hotel Bookings & Umrah Visa Services also available LOW COST FARES TO: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Kenya, Ethiopia, Lagos, Dar-Es-Salaam, Dubai and many more destinations.
Easyway Travel: 151 Ladypool Road, Sparkbrook, Birmingham, B12 8LH Tel: 0121 440 2121 Mobile: 07931 794 645 E-mail: easywayjawad@yahoo.co.uk Web: www.easywaytravel.biz
62
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015
THE ASIAN TODAY England Lagging Behind in Cancer Survival
A
study has suggested that England's track record for cancer survival is poorer than other countries with similar health systems. Published in the British Journal of Cancer, the research compares England's survival trends with figures for five other countries over 15 years. Researchers say there have been steady improvements, but more needs to be done to close the survival gap. NHS England says survival figures have never been higher in the country. Researchers from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine compared England's survival figures for colon, breast, lung, ovarian, rectal and stomach cancers with data from Australia, Canada, Denmark, Norway and Sweden. They looked at how these rates changed between 1995 to 2009. Despite some steady improvements across the board, they found England's five-year survival for all six cancers remained lower than Australia, Canada, Norway and Sweden. They suggest some of the reasons behind this could include cancers being diagnosed later, poorer access to treatment and less investment in health systems But they point out some cases the speed of improvement was faster in England than elsewhere.
HEALTH APP AIMED AT SMARTPHONE USERS An innovative local health messaging helpline, developed by Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust (LPT), has been awarded more than £100,000 funding to help improve young people’s access to healthcare nationally. The money will be used to give other organisations a helping hand to set-up similar services. The award-winning ChatHealth messaging service was developed in association with LPT’s school nursing service, and offers 65,000 11-19 year olds in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland access to confidential health advice and support through text messaging. School nurses have received 3,500 messages from young people in secondary schools over the last 12 months.
Delete Blood Cancer UK is joining with the parents of a little boy who needs a blood stem cell donation for more people with a SouthAsian heritage to register as potential donors. Sixyear-old Yusuf Choudhury from Luton has the blood disorder Fanconi Anaemia and needs a blood stem cell donation to survive. A matching blood stem cell donor is being sought for him and as his heritage is Bangladeshi, his parents are appealing especially to those with a similar heritage to join the registry, as this is likely to provide the most suitable match for him. Yusuf’s parents are working together with Sajda
HEALTH
HEALTH
South-Asian Heritage Donors Needed
Malik and Lisa Bose who are leading Yusuf's campaign. Yusuf’s illness means that he has spent a significant amount of time
Meningitis charity reminds Hajj pilgrims of vaccinations
in hospital and rarely has an uninterrupted night’s sleep. Nevertheless, despite facing a range of health challenges, Yusuf lives life to the full.
He has lots of energy, is very sociable and is a huge fan of the Power Rangers and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. His parents are
really proud that he has been able to excel despite facing adversity. His mother Laki says: “Yusuf is on a cocktail of medication to help him survive. However, because of the nature of his illness medication will soon cease to work. Before that occurs it is vital we find a donor match to give him the best chance possible. With the help of my campaign managers, Sajda and Lisa, I have embarked on the Yusuf's campaign to recruit potential life savers especially from the ethnic minority background. Time is limited, please help.”
Pinky Lilani Joins Health Campaign Over 70 to Check Non-Lump Breast Cancer Symptoms
I
nternational charity Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF) is reminding pilgrims form the UK heading to Hajj to check that their meningitis vaccination is up to date before embarking on their trip to Mecca. Meningitis vaccination is a visa requirement for all travellers who must have a certificate showing that they have been vaccinated at least 10 days before leaving for Saudi Arabia, but no more than three years before arrival. This also applies to seasonal workers in Hajj areas. The mandatory requirement for meningococcal ACWY vaccination was introduced over 10 years ago following large epidemics of meningococcal disease worldwide after pilgrims returned to their own countries. There are now two ACWY vaccines available: Menveo® and Nimenrix®. In children less than 1 year of age, Menveo® should be used.
Christopher Head, MRF Chief Executive, said: "Meningitis and septicaemia can kill in hours so it’s vital that pilgrims protect themselves by getting vaccinated and check that they are up to date. Many people aren’t aware that vaccines only protect against some kinds of meningitis so it is also important to know the symptoms and get medical help as soon as possible if they suspect someone is ill as swift action saves lives." The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) have set up a national network of vaccination clinics in England, Scotland and Wales where Menveo® is offered to pilgrims travelling on Hajj or Umrah at a reduced price. This cost includes the vaccine, administration and the certificate. For more information, or to find your nearest clinic visit www.mcbvac.co.uk. The Hajj season is expected to begin between September 21 and September 26.
O
ne in three women diagnosed with breast cancer each year are aged 70 and over The Founder of the Asian Women of Achievement Awards, Pinky Lilani and Journalist, Yasmin AlibhaiBrown are supporting Public Health England’s ‘Be Clear on Cancer’ breast cancer campaign aimed at women aged 70 and over. The campaign which coincides with Cancer Equality’s Ethnic Minority Cancer Awareness Month aims to drive awareness of the risk of breast cancer amongst this age group and to increase their knowledge of lesser-known breast
cancer symptoms which could include, changes to the skin of your breast, changes in the shape or size of your breast or nipple, nipple discharge, pain in your breast and any unusual or persistent changes to your breasts. Around 13,400 women aged 70 and over are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, accounting for a third of all breast cancer cases. Pinky Lilani, CBE DL, Founder of the Asian Women of Achievement Awards says: “We know there are cultural taboos and embarrassment associated with the discussion and education about breast cancer amongst
older Asian women but the truth is as Asian women we need to talk about the risk and symptoms of breast cancer more openly to increase our understanding of the disease. Yasmin Alibhai-Brown, Journalist and Author says: “Sadly everyone knows someone who has been touched by breast cancer and that’s why we as Asian women cannot afford to ignore the statistic - one in three women who get breast cancer are over 70. If you’re over 70 don’t assume you’re past it or dismiss any symptoms as a sign of ageing and most importantly don’t be afraid to tell your doctor.
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
LIFESTYLE
THE ASIAN TODAY DAY IN THE LIFE OF THE
LIFESTYLE
NIHAL
By: Mita Mistry www.mitamistry.co.uk
@mitamistry
Every month, we bring you an exclusive insight of a day in the life of an influential personality. Looking at what inspires them, defining their passion they have for what they do and exploring a day in their life. Meet Nihal Arthanayake. Husband. Father. Radio DJ. Presenting the debate show on the BBC Asian Network, Nihal has drummed up a reputation of being outspoken, opinionated and very focused. It is no wonder that music label, Sony, asked him to compile a three disk CD, showcasing the best of Asian music. The compilation is a tribute to the powerful and legendary voices that make up the Asian music scene including: Panjabi MC, A.R. Rahman, Jay Sean and includes over 50 tracks that create an explosive mix of Bollywood and British Asian classics. Speaking to The Asian Today, he talks music, life and future projects.
What’s an average day in your life like? Try and wake up – try, I don’t always manage it.
06:30
Take a run around the park.
07:00
Come home.
08:30
Get to the Asian Network. Have a discussion about the type of debate we will have.
10:00
Go on air. Have a three hour radio show live across the country. Discussing so many different aspects .
Yes it was. How can you say a track is better than any other track. It was very difficult. Originally, we had started this conversation three years ago. At the end there were a number of factors, which it came down to. Sometimes it was really difficult to get tracks due to legal reasons and other. Some were chosen because you just have to have and other times a track was chosen because it’s an audience favourite.
13:00
Finish the show
Was it difficult in choosing songs?
13:30
Go and meet my agent to talk about lots of different things happing in my career. Just released a compilation album. Writing a book. Talking about projects happening this year and next year.
19:00
Get home to family. Feed the children.
Yes it was. How can you say a track is better than any other track. It was very difficult. Originally, we had started this conversation three years ago. At the end there were a number of factors, which it came down to. Sometimes it was really difficult to get tracks due to legal reasons and other. Some were chosen because you just have to have and other times a track was chosen because it’s an audience favourite.
20:00
Put the children to bed.
Who is the album targeted to?
Attend events.
The best thing about Asian music is that lots of generations can listen to the same tunes. It is not specifically targeted at one particular type of audience.
21:00 - 00:00
Selecting the music had been a challenge for Nihal, however he was keen to give audiences a unique listening experience. "The album is actually like your own private version of a Mela, with an eclectic mix of sounds from the subcontinent. When you go to a Mela you’ll hear Bollywood from one area, Bhangra and Asian R&B blaring from the main stage, classical music from one of the cultural tents and everything in between! “Selecting the tracks is always challenging as there is so much music to choose from. I wanted the album to showcase the diverse sounds that have emerged from both the UK and the subcontinent. The album
What made you decide to create a compilation?
Looking back to the 80’s – there was a huge audience for live music. Can this concept work today?
features some great classics that everyone will recognise, no matter what their ethnic heritage, combined with some big Bollywood tunes that are guaranteed floor fillers and family favourites. Plus of course the very best of British Asian music which doesn’t belong to just one genre – we have UK made traditional Bhangra inspired by folk music from the Punjab region of India, Urban tracks, and good old commercial Pop! Just press play and be taken on a journey through the world of Asian Music”
63
How Chinese Medicine Can Help Lower The Risk of Heart Disease
ARTHANAYAKE
06:00
AUGUST 2015
Yes I do. I think if people can find out where Asians are hanging out. Many young British Muslims don’t want to be in places where there is alcohol, so it has to be appropriate. I think a revolution needs to take place where young people need to bring back live music. Many artists cant progress because they don’t have a place to perform. Then you have the dumb behaviour of some Asian boys. This stops clubs from putting on Asian nights because they are too much trouble. Plus, girls need to be given a lot more freedom because its girls who make a club night, not boys.
WHAT THE FRINGE Nihal will also be at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival, which will be running from August 7th to August 31st. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the largest arts festival in the world and takes
place every August for three weeks in Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city. Every year thousands of performers take to hundreds of stages all over Edinburgh to present shows for every taste.
According to the NHS, Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death worldwide, yearly claiming more than 73,000 deaths in the UK alone. About 1 in 6 men and 1 in 10 women die from CHD. Given these figures, it may be worth taking a step back to see if you could lower the risks of CHD. Firstly, it helps to understand the risk factors. Family history and age are the biggest ones, which you have little control over, but lifestyle also plays a huge part. You can help lower your blood pressure and chances of CHD by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake. Lowering stress is a massive factor. The relationship between stress and CHD has been recognised since antiquity. The incidence of heart attacks and sudden death significantly increase following the acute stress of natural disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes as a consequence of “shock” and the body’s “fight or flight’ responses. How can Chinese Medicine Help Lower Stress and Blood pressure? Chinese Medicine has known for centuries that lowering stress and blood pressure are fundamental to preventing heart disease. The western medical profession unanimously agrees because stress raises blood pressure and exposes you to high levels of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which can lead to blood clots and heart attacks.
To read the full article please log onto our website: www.theasiantoday.com
64
Patrons
Asian Business
Chamber www.aston.ac.uk
of Commerce
www.natwest.com
C o n n e c t i n g y o u t o o p p o r t u n i t y. . . Patrons top strip new theme.indd 1
The Asian Business Chamber of Commerce Supporting & Showcasing the Best of Asian Businesses
www.hsbc.co.uk
www.rbs.co.uk
tel: 0121 450 4203
ASIAN BUSINESS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
By: Waheed Saleem Vice President of the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce The Asian Business Chamber of Commerce is the premier Asian Business organisation in the region, organising key events and contributing to strategic initiatives in Birmingham and the region. The newly formed policy and strategy sub committee has put together a work programme to enhance our strategic position and to contribute to the wider policy agenda. This will enable our members to influence the strategic initiatives that are being proposed in the City. The HS2 development will bring substantial economic benefit to the region and businesses. We are keen to ensure our members are able to benefit from this, through access to appropriate procurement opportunities through the supply chain. We will promote key events and meetings for members and influence HS2 Ltd through the Chamber of Commerce. The Committee recognises the importance of good quality education for young people and the need for teachers to have knowledge and experience of the world of work; therefore we will be looking at working with our members to facilitate opportunities for teachers from schools and colleges to learn about the work of work. Asian businesses contribute significantly to the economy; however, this has never been researched in the region. The ABCC will be working with the academic and business partners to undertake independent academic research on the contribution that ethnic minority businesses make to the regional economy and how to promote this further. We actively look to promote Asian women in business, through showcasing and supporting them through the Chamber of Commerce. Asian business women play an important part in our economy and it's important to promote their business to flourish. We have a challenging agenda ahead of us and are keen on working with our members and partners to make a positive contribution to Birmingham and the wider region.
ABCC
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
AUGUST 2015
www.mahirs.com
event catering, design & management
www.sccb.ac.uk
www.mazars.co.uk
www.edgbaston.com
web: www.asianbusiness-chamber.com 22/07/2015 15:36:01
Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) held a major networking event this week, which also marked the celebration of Eid ul_Fitr, or ‘Feast of Breaking the Fast’. For Muslims worldwide, Eid signals the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. The networking event took place at the National Conference Centre (formerly National
generations, and to be successful, families needed a ‘family strategy, as well as a family structure’. ABCC president Saqib Bhatti said: “The first ever Eid event for the newly branded Asian Business Chamber of Commerce was a great success. We had over 250 people and the quality of the people and businesses was a real testament to the current strength of the Asian
Regions Businesses
• PICTURED: Paul Faulkner (GBCC chief executive), Anjum Khan (ABCC director) and Russell Jeans (GBCC business services director) with the new ABCC logo.
MARK EID
Institute of Asian Businesses gets a name change
T
he UK’s leading support organisation for Asian businesses based in Birmingham is to change its name. The Institute of Asian Businesses (IAB), founded in 1987 in the wake of the Handsworth riots, will from today be known as the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC). The move has been made to emphasise the close association the organisation has with Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), a relationship forged 28 years ago by the late Om Parmar, who became honorary president. Paul Faulkner, chief executive of the GBCC, said: “The committee decided that the change of name was needed to emphasise the organisation’s close association with the GBCC. “They have been part of the Chamber for 28 years so it
seemed a natural progression. The ABCC will still stick to the original principles of its formation to meet the needs and aspirations of member companies and to develop their full potential. “It’s vital that the Asian business community continues to make an big contribution to the economic development of the city and the region. “The ABCC will continue to support the Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi communities, ensuring we have a good cross section of the Asian community.” Saqib Bhatti, the ABCC’s president said: “This is a fantastic step and it is a recognition of all the varied work that our organisation does around the region for our members. The Asian Business Community is thriving and having a recognised Chamber within the Greater Birmingham Chambers of
Commerce Group is a real source of Pride. This is the result of many years of hard work by successive boards and the Operational Team.” Anjum Khan, the ABCC’s director, said: “We now play an increasingly important role in the development of the local economy as the demographics of the region shift towards those with an ethnic background. “Asian businesses are diverse and as such membership of the ABCC includes everything from solicitors and restaurants to training companies and wholesalers. “We have a strong events diary, ranging from seminars, to networking to social events. Our annual dinner was a sell-out last year and remains one of the most popular and important events in the Midlands business calendar.”
HSBC Launches Multi-Million Pound Funding Package Banking giant HSBC has launched its most ambitious package of support for Birmingham’s small and medium-sized companies (SMEs). The bank, which is moving its retail arm to the city, has announced a £400 million SME fund, one of more than 40 funds set up to support smaller firms across the country. The newly announced fund is HSBC’s largest yet – double last year’s successful SME fund. The funds are immediately available to SMEs in Birmingham. To make it easier and cheaper to borrow, arrangement and HSBC security fees on qualifying
business loans of between £1,000 and £300,000 will be waived or refunded through to the end of July. This could save the average small business hundreds of pounds on borrowing costs. Stephen Peart, area director of business banking in Birmingham, said: “SMEs in Birmingham are ambitious and we are open for business and ready to help them invest to grow. “Too often I hear customers say they weren’t aware just how closely HSBC works with SMEs and start-ups in Birmingham. We want to change that perception and reaffirm our commitment to businesses of all sizes."
Ian Stuart, head of HSBC’s UK Commercial Bank, said: “We’re hugely proud of our unique international network, but it’s vital that businesses across the country, from startups and sole traders upwards, know that HSBC is there to support them. We currently approve more than 85 per cent of loans, and our net lending to business is up in 2015 – but we want to do even more. This fund is an aspiration, not a limit, on our ambitions, and removing fees from our business loans could save hundreds of pounds for the average firm.” For further information please email Stephen.m.peart@hsbc.com
• EID: From left:
Zaheer Afzal (ABCC Executive Committee Member); Greg Lowson (Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce President); Paul Faulkner (Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce Chief Executive); Rachel Northam (National Conference Centre Consultant); Saqib Bhatti (ABCC President); John English, Daina Anderson & Tracey O’Brien (Talent Match Company – a subsidiary of BVSC); Waheed Saleem (ABCC Vice President): Andrew Mitchell (The Royal Bank of Scotland)
Motorcycle Museum) with an audience of 250 business people. As well as celebrating Eid, the event included contributions from a number of speakers, including Andrew Mitchell, regional director, corporate commercial banking West Midlands of the Royal Bank of Scotland. Mr Mitchell spoke about the various challenges faced by family enterprises, which include managing family differences, ownership succession and defining roles and responsibilities. He pointed out that a staggering 80 per cent of wealth did not survive three
business community. “It was our privilege to have hosted such a wide array of business sectors and even after the official event had finished, many of our attendees continued to network. A lot of hard work goes into achieving what we did last night so I congratulate my own executive committee and the ABCC operational team led by Anjum Khan.” The event was sponsored by Talent Match, a Big Lottery funded programme that helps long-term unemployed young adults find jobs, Mahirs and the National Conference Centre.
ASIAN BUSINESS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AWARDS
Nominations are being invited for this year’s Asian Business Chamber of Commerce Awards, which will take place on 21st November at the ICC. There are five categories of awards: ‘Business of the Year’, ‘Outstanding Young Entrepreneur of the Year’, ‘Outstanding Customer Service of the Year’, ‘Outstanding Business Woman of the Year’ and ‘Outstanding Contribution to Society’. The awards are open to all businesses, and entries into multiple categories are also welcome. Closing dates for entries is 4pm on Friday, 25 September. Entry forms can be found at www.asianbusiness-chamber.com and when complete should be emailed to: info@asian-business-chamber.com Tickets for the dinner are £80 + VAT each or £800 + VAT for a table of ten. There is a limited ‘Platinum Package’ available at £1,000 + VAT, which is also for a table of ten.
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
BUSINESS
London is one of the world's most diverse cities and this also reflects the business landscape where 14% of 5.1 million small businesses are owned by migrants as well as 30% of the tech startups in the capital, reports The Centre for Entrepreneurs. One migrant shaking things up in the small business world with his
Connecting Generations through Culture
social enterprise is Rafael dos Santos, a Brazilian entrepreneur living in London for 14 years. Rafael says, “Migrants have great skills that are being underutilized and we want to help them to make the best use of these skills and turn them into entrepreneurs”. The Migrant Business Accelerator was created to help migrants improve their lives by starting a business and we will provide £4000 to kick start their idea as well as mentoring during 16 weeks, where workshops in finance, marketing, operations, HR and business skills such as pitching and negotiation will be taught by successful migrant entrepreneurs.
BILIMORIA
AWARDED Lord Bilimoria, founder of Cobra Beer, is honoured to have been awarded the title of 'International Indian of the Year' by India Link International this week.
children and adults. The idea behind the brand was to create something to help British Asians celebrate their cultural identity.
India Link International is a magazine for Indian diaspora published from the UK. It celebrated its 21st anniversary with its annual awards ceremony where the Indian Deputy High Commissioner Dr Virander Paul was a special guest, alongside Lord Swraj Paul, Lord Raj Loomba, Honourable Bob Blackman MP Harrow East, Mr Niraj Gupta, Managing Director Punjab National Bank International and Justice Sir Mota Singh, who was the first Indian to become a Judge in the UK.
Tell me about Little Putar. What does it offer?
• SUPPORTED:
Migrants will be provided with workshops and mentoring as part of the programme
LORD
Introduce Yourself Harleen & Rajveen Takhar are the creators of the award winning clothing brand, Little Putar, which specialises in creating products featuring funny Punjabi slogans and phrases for babies,
Little Putar is a quirky Punjabi clothes collection which features funny Punjabi slogans, phrases and popular surnames. This range includes babygrows, t-shirts and hoodies for 0 - 11 year olds and features slogans such as ‘I Love Masi’, ‘Daddy’s Little Accountant’ and ‘My First Eid’. Little Putar also offers customers the opportunity to personalise their items to provide something for everyone across all cultures and religions. We actually started out purely as a babywear and childrenswear brands but due to popular
demand we added an adults range shortly after we launched. Our 'I'm Punjabi and We Don't Keep • LITTLE PUTAR: EABA Winners Online Calm' range has been one Business of the Year 2014 Little Putar-min of our best sellers! All of our products are ecoDescribe an average friendly and sourced from the UK to support our economy. We also day in your life. use the brand to champion social causes such as lohri for girls and No two days are the same in this female infanticide through our business. You could be designing 'Save the Girl Child' range. We and brainstorming one day and were also invited to support the sampling materials the next. The Gaurav Bains charity ball last one thing that is constant is our year to encourage more Asians customer service; most days to become bone marrow donors. involve calls and emails.
After winning Best Online Business at the English Asian Business Awards last year – you’ve had quite a journey, why did you decide to venture into this industry? The genesis of the brand was Harleen's daughter. As sisters and second generation British Asians, we wanted to create something unique to share with the next generation. The birth of the family's first grandchild really
brought home the importance of teaching our children all the things that we take as a given when it comes to culture and traditions. This was a fun, interactive way for us to do that – we like to think of it as 'culturally conscious' fashion.
An example of the current method of taxing dividends: Net Dividend
Tax Credit
Additional Tax
Dividends after all tax
Non-taxpayer
£1000
£111
£-
£1000
Basic rate taxpayer
£1000
£111
£-
£1000
Higher rate taxpayer
£1000
£111
£250
£750
Additional rate taxpayer
£1000
£111
£306
£694
w: www.rusand.co e: rus@rusand.co.uk
Lord Bilimoria commented: “I am immensely humbled that my work and experience has been recognised in such as a flattering manner. The Indian community in the UK is a vibrant and collaborative network of hard working, ambitious and inspirational people, and so to be selected as International Indian of the Year is something I will truly cherish.”
We set out on this journey with a personal ambition to help the next generation celebrate their culture. Our achievements have been rooted in our unwavering belief in making this happen and working hard to achieve it! Think big and don't dwell on the scrapes and bruises you get along the way – where a door closes, a window opens. The support we have had from friends, family and fans has also been invaluable.
CHANGES IN DIVIDEND TAX a tax free dividend allowance of £5,000 per year. After this allowance, the tax rate payable on the dividends will depend on the individuals other taxable income. For the basic rate tax payer, this is 7.5%. For the higher rate tax payer it is 32.5% and for the additional rate tax payer it is 38.1%. Although this is a simpler way to tax dividends, it is more costly for some individuals.
A number of accolades were presented on the night. The most prestigious award of International Indian of the year 2014-2015 was bestowed to Lord Karan Bilimoria, who also gave the annual lecture.
Secret to your success?
HarleenandRajveen’sPersonalised Clothing Range
In July 2015, the Chancellor introduced significant changes to the way dividends are currently taxed. At the moment, all UK dividends are paid with a notional 10% tax credit, therefore the basic rate tax is already paid, hence, basic rate tax payers do not have to pay any additional taxes on dividends received. From April 2015, this is being scrapped and replaced with
65
BUSINESS
THE ASIAN TODAY Accelerator for Migrants
AUGUST 2015
1190A-1192 Stratford Road Birmingham, B28 8AB
From April 2016, dividends will be taxed as follows: Net Dividend
Tax Credit
Additional Tax
Dividends after all tax
Non-taxpayer
£1000
£-
£-
£1000
Basic rate taxpayer
£1000
£-
£75
£925
Higher rate taxpayer
£1000
£-
£325
£675
Additional rate taxpayer
£1000
£-
£381
£619
Tips to minimise tax on dividends 1. 2. 3.
Ensure you use the annual tax free dividends allowance. Make use of each spouse's income tax allowance and tax bands. Reduce other income.
RAZA ULLAH SAMAR BA (HONS) MBA FCA
Smokers Avoid Tax Holidaymakers Cash in on Overseas Cigarettes
A
major new survey of adult smokers in the West Midlands reveals the true extent of how consumer behaviour has shifted to ‘non-shop sources’ to avoid paying the excessive taxation on tobacco products in the United Kingdom. The poll is one of the largest of its kind and received input from law enforcement officials and surveyed smokers nationwide. It found four in ten (39 per cent) of smokers in the West Midlands are now buying tobacco products from ‘nonshop sources’ due to the excessive costs in the UK. The term ‘non-shop sources’ refers to purchases from abroad, online, from friends of family, in pubs, in the street, at car boot sales, in vans, at work and in ‘fag houses’ (private houses selling tobacco). This surge in ‘nonshop’ sources has caused the Treasury to lose an estimated £2.1 billion of tax revenue every year because of the shift to non-UK duty paid products. A further £500 million is lost to cross border shopping each year. Collectively, this is the second largest loss to the Treasury after VAT avoidance.
Birmingham gets new landmark tallest building
346 ft High R
ockspring Property Investment Managers LLP (Rockspring) has received planning permission to build Birmingham’s tallest office tower at 103 Colmore Row, with development partner Sterling Property Ventures (Sterling). Birmingham City Council has given Rockspring the go-ahead to demolish the 22-storey, 1970s-built NatWest Tower, which has been unoccupied since 2003, and replace it with a new £60 million 26-storey landmark building. Planning committee members unanimously approved the scheme, describing it as “welcome”, “imaginative”, a “stunning addition” to the skyline and a “strong statement.” At 105.5 metres (346 feet) high and with the apex to stand 246 metres above sea level, the new tower will be the tallest office building under construction in the UK outside London.
AUGUST 2015
66
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
THE ASIAN TODAY
PROPERTY
PROPERTY
New Construction i10 hitting new heights Trainees Needed Skilled Workers Highly Sought To Meet Housing Demand
Skilled Workers Highly Sought To Meet Housing Demand W
ith one million new construction workers needed by 2020 to meet Government house building targets, Walsall College is urging school leavers or adults looking for a career change to consider enrolling on construction courses which can lead to
rewarding jobs in an industry where these skills are in high demand. 300,000 new homes need to be built across the UK every year to meet demand but with only 20,000 trainees entering the industry each year, together with a high rate of retirement, the industry is
falling incredibly short of this target with current output at only 140,000. Key trades that are in short supply are bricklayers, plasterers, carpenters and painters and decorators. Barry Hill, Curriculum Manager for Construction at Walsall College said:
“Construction companies we work closely with are advising us that they urgently need good, reliable and skilled trainees to keep pace with the demand for housing. “To support the industry, learning providers also have a responsibility to ensure the courses they offer meet the needs of the employers, and that they are preparing students for real jobs and successful careers in a growing and important sector. “At Walsall College our courses are developed with significant input from employers to ensure students graduate with the skills and knowledge to give them a head start in the workplace. “There is a very strong culture of success and progression on our construction programmes as staff have a real passion for the industry, with a wealth of trade experience behind them, and students develop their trade skills, learnt in our state of the art workshop, by putting them into practice working on real life industry projects.” Courses on offer at Walsall College range from part-time evening classes to full time and apprenticeship courses, from level 1 to level 3.
DISCOUNT
HOME DECOR www.discounthomedecor.co.uk
WALLPAPER & DECORATING CENTRE
TEL: 0121 667 9334
50% OFF Bedroom Wallpaper Living Room Wallpaper Kitchen Wallpaper Bathroom Wallpaper
• • • •
Striped Wallpaper Floral Wallpaper Damask Wallpaper Feature Wallpaper
www.discounthomedecor.co.uk make your house a home with our wallpaper Many other decorating and DIY items in store
Opening Times: Mon - Fri: 9:30am - 5pm
further regeneration and job creation.” The project is being delivered with Neptune Developments and Balfour Beatty, who are working with the council to also help a number of apprentices gain new skills on site. “Peter Fennell, Balfour Beatty Site Manager, said: “We are very pleased to mark this significant milestone in the construction of the i10 project, a key element to the Wolverhampton Interchange development. “Balfour Beatty is also working alongside Wolverhampton City Council and local colleagues to provide real work experience opportunities for local students and apprentices.” Steve Parry, managing director of Neptune Developments, said: “The excellent progress being made with the I10 building is proving really useful in helping with our efforts to deliver future phases of the Interchange scheme, including the new railway station.” Planners gave the Interchange 10 project the green light in March 2014 and the site has already attracted significant interest from a number of potential retailers and businesses. The project should be completed by the end of 2015.
Responsibility Now Falls on Landlords
T: 0121 667 9334 Unit 6A Olton Wharf Richmond Road Olton, Solihull B92 7RN
he multi-million pound regeneration of Wolverhampton’s transport hub area is hitting new heights with the roof on the showpiece Interchange 10 (i10) building nearing completion. i10 will provide the only top grade office accommodation in the city and is a key component in the council’s £10.6million office, retail and leisure development. Wider development will include a new railway station and relocation of the Metro stop. Plans have been passed for the extension of the station car park and the new bus station is already in use. The Interchange will become the gateway to the city for people arriving off the national rail network, by bus or Metro. Councillor Peter Bilson, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for City Assets, said: “The i10 building is now beginning to stand out as a beacon in the city landscape. This is a major development for the City of Wolverhampton and is being delivered on time and on budget. i10 will provide the first top grade office accommodation and other business units close to the station. It demonstrates confidence and optimism in the city to potential investors, which will in turn lead to
Evict Illegal Immigrants
* Upto 50% off original price
• • • •
*
T
Landlords will be expected to evict people who lose the right to live in England under new measures introduced by the government. In a bid to curve the growing immigration problem, they will be able to end tenancies, sometimes without a court order, when asylum requests fail, ministers say. Landlords will also be required to check a migrant's status in advance of agreeing a lease. Repeat offenders could face up to five years in prison.
Financial support for failed asylum seekers will also end under the plans. Communities Secretary Greg Clark said the government would crack down on "rogue landlords who make money out of illegal immigration. You have saved the landlord having to spend money establishing something that is clear and that the Home Office can provide - which is a clear statement of whether they should be there or not."
WINNERS OF THE 'BEST LOCAL NEWSPAPER' AT THE ASIAN MEDIA AWARDS 2013
MOTORING MOTORING
AUGUST 2015
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
67
IN THE FAST LANE WITH THE ASIAN TODAY
LOOKING TO SELL YOUR NUMBER PLATE? LOOK NO FURTHER! CALL 0121 314 2892 FOR GREAT AD RATES!
Price War Over Petrol " We believe that there is scope for at least a 5 pence cut in the price of diesel..."
'Big Four' Supermarkets Reduce Fuel Prices
T
he 'big four' supermarket giants have entered into a price war over their diesel prices. Sainsbury's and Tesco incited the price war by introducing a 2p-a-litre price cut to their fuel, leading Asda and Morrisons to follow suit. RAC fuel spokesman Simon Williams said: “This is welcome news for diesel drivers coming just in time for the summer holidays. “We believe that there is scope for at least a 5 pence cut in the price of diesel.”
The grappling for competitive fuel prices is great news for motorists, as the price war between supermarkets in December of last year saw petrol prices being plunged to their lowest in four years following a large drop in the price of crude oil. Mr Williams added: “While this is a bold step by Tesco we are confident that they will be swiftly followed by other retailers making even deeper cuts and should lead to a fundamental re-balance of pricing in the retail fuel market.”
1 Million in bus lane tickets
Motorists who drive on designated bus lanes are three times more likely to face fines than ten years ago. The number of fixed penalties for the offence have tripled in five years, increasing from 321,000 fines half a decade ago to 1,062,501 meted out last year, with many fines still being
contested. Penalty charges, ranging between £130 in London to £60 outside the capital, have amassed £30,005,959 for local authorities so far. Local councils are now being asked to reassess their bus lane processes. The RAC have claimed that recent
GREENFIELDS 786fxj djm 1x iiw612 D121NKS jjy273 ALT4F d12all V1 MUL b11 ubu NAB 111L m44nsl R44HME 786 FXJ - £2000
DJ MIX - £15000
HW612 - £1500
DRINKS - £10000
JJY273 - £1500
ALTAF - £20000
DR ALI - £2500
VIMUL - £5000
BHUBU - £1000
NABIL- £4000
MANSEL - £3000
RAHEEM - £1500
Tel: 0121 684 8080
figures indicate the enforcement procedure is “broken”, with figures revealing that over a tenth of tickets are issued to drivers using the lanes between 7pm and 7am, outside of general bus operating times. Simon Williams, spokesman for the RAC, said: “We urge local authorities to
Naughty Words! TURN TO PAGE 48-49
review their bus lanes, particularly those that have raised the most revenue in fines, to check that signage is as clear as it can be and that they are open only at times when traffic volumes demand it.” Birmingham features alongside Sheffield, Manchester, Nottingham, Leeds, Bradford and Bristol as local authorities which issue bus lane tickets in abundance.
CHERISHED NUMBER PLATES FOR SALE
T4 FEK N44SUR J4 VDX M44 SUO P44 NKK S4 VND TAFEEK - £2000
NASUR - £4000 JAVED - £3000
MASUD - £2000 PANK - £1500
SAUND - £2500
S11 EKU Y4 CVB K4 HML N4 HRN N4 KHE L4 RHE SHEKU - £2000
YACUB - £4000
KAMAL - £1000
NAHERN - £1000 NAKHE- £2000
LAHRE - £2000
Email: greenfields786@hotmail.co.uk
68
AUGUST 2015
NatWest T20 Blast
Moeen Ali is thrilled to have the chance to play in Worcestershire’s first home quarter-final in the NatWest T20 Blast– and hoping to help the Rapids reach Finals Day at nearby Edgbaston for the first time. England’s coach Trevor Bayliss was keen to make all the Ashes heroes available to play for their counties in this week’s quarter finals, which will all be shown live on Sky Sports beginning on Wednesday when the 2013 champions, Northants Steelbacks, head to the south coast to face Luke Wrights’s Sussex Sharks. Birmingham Bears, the holders, take on Essex Eagles at Edgbaston the following night, before Moeen rejoins the Rapids for a tough home game against the renowned T20 specialists Hampshire – which is set to be a sellout at New Road.
Lord Patel appointed to ECB Management The England and Wales Cricket Board have announced that Professor Lord Patel of Bradford OBE, a leading voice on health, social care and community cohesion, is to join its 14-strong Board of Directors as an independent member. Professor Lord Patel, who currently sits in the House of Lords as a Labour Peer, formerly worked for the Yorkshire Cricket
Academy as a part-time coach and has had a lifelong involvement with the recreational game via local leagues in his native Bradford. Last year he served on the judging panel of the inaugural Asian Cricket Awards supported by ECB. Commenting on his appointment, ECB Chairman Colin Graves said: “Lord Patel’s instinctive grasp of the role cricket plays in uniting communities and crossing social barriers will be all important as we continue to change how we work as an organisation. He is a hugely respected figure and his sound judgement and expertise will be an enormous asset to the Board and the wider game.
Maryam’s Point of Light WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM
NEWS
Cycling Champion Receives Prime Minister’s Award
A local cycling champion has been named at this month’s Point of Light Award winner for encouraging Muslim women to cycle. Maryam Amatullah was named a "Point of Light" by the Prime Minister for her work over the past five years helping women get into cycling. After she started cycling with her daughter she noticed other women from ethnic minorities particularly those who wear a hijab - were unwilling to use a bike.
She started to organise fun bike rides around Leicester to encourage them to get active and has since inspired more than 150 women to try cycling. She said: "I'm always humbled and honoured to receive recognition for the work I do and it continues to motivate me. "I just love seeing more women on bikes and will encourage and support any woman who wishes to do so. "The women are always amazed how far they can go and the places they can visit
on a bike." Mr Cameron said: "Inspiring people who think they are not able to do something takes passion and patience. "Maryam has demonstrated these qualities and, through her love of cycling, has shown women that they can be active regardless of their background. "I am very pleased to be able to recognise the difference she has made in the lives of the women she works with by making her a Point of Light." “When Maryam took up
I’m Looking Forward to Facing Raj Hundal Ronnie O’Sullivan Announces He Will Play in World Cup
cycling she realised that many women from ethnic minorities were missing out on the sport she loved – either because of cultural stereotypes or because they didn’t think they
could do sport while wearing a hijab. By leading cycle rides for women and helping to set up a women-only cycling club, Maryam has encouraged over 150 women to take up cycling.”
Zaf’s Trip to Wembley
A
sian snooker player, Raj ‘The Hitman’ Hundal has announced he is to come out of retirement. The Hounslow born sportsman has set his sights on the World Cup of Pool title. Raj had taken a break from the game after becoming a father, but is now eager for his son to see him lift more titles, after winning the 2005 Pools Masters. He has committed to put in a minimum of four hours work on the tables in order to be in peak condition to take on the best in the world. He said: “I’m back in action at the World Cup of Pool, in Bethnal Green, in September. I’m really looking forward to it. That’s going to be the return of the Raj. “I’ll be a bit rusty at the moment. It’s not like tennis where age is an issue as you can mature as a player. I want my son to see me lifting world titles.” He added: “I became a father about a year-and-a-half ago. We’re a close-knit family and I didn’t want to be living out of a suitcase and raising my son over Skype. It’s hard enough when you’re married and in a relationship. I was also getting burnt out. I’ve been playing cue sports since I was six so it’s been a lifetime already and I’ve not had time off.. “I needed a break to refresh and come back and being a dad is the best thing in the world.” As part of a warm-up, he will be looking to face his friends and snooker greats Ronnie O’Sullivan and Jimmy White.
Community Worker Awarded FA Respect Award A community champion who used the power of football to help tackle gang culture in Birmingham has won a prestigious Respect Award. Mohammed Zafran was among honoured guests at Wembley to collect the Bobby Moore Individual Award ahead of Sunday's FA Community Shield supported by McDonald’s. The awards, now in their seventh year, recognise the commitment of individuals, clubs and administrators to promote Respect and Fair Play across all levels of the game. And the tireless efforts of Mohammed immediately captured the attention of the judges. Zaf, as he is
widely known, runs coaching programmes which have helped more than 13,500 youngsters in north-east Birmingham - in many instances offering them a positive alternative to gang culture. Figures reveal that since its inception in 2008, the Respect campaign has really hit home. Cautions for dissent have dropped by almost a quarter and bookings across the board are down by seven per cent. The other winners at the ceremony, hosted by FA Chairman Greg Dyke, came from the teams, leagues and counties that form the football pyramid.D
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
NEWS
AUGUST 2015
Michael Chopra One Step Closer at Achieving His Goal
Taking Strike!
69
Feature
TURN TO PAGE 32 TO READ THE FEATURE
KHAN LOSES OUT ON FIGHT
F
ormer Newcastle and Cardiff City striker Michael Chopra returns to India to achieve his goal of being adopted by his ancestral nation and secure an Indian passport. As the grandson of Indian nationals, Chopra hopes to permanently return to his roots and play professional football for the Indian National team, following his debut for Kerala Blasters last year. However, domestic regulations in India state that in order to represent the country, players must have
an Indian passport – something Michael is yet to attain. Chopra’s history is key to achieving his Indian Citizenship. As the son of Minty Chopra, an Indian man whose parents left India to seek their fortune in the UK in the late 1950’s, and English mother, Sharon Chopra, he has always been very proud of his dual heritage. By returning to India with an Indian passport, the world famous striker would be able to settle and play the sport he loves, in a place his spirit has always thought of as home.
Earlier this year whilst addressing a gathering of Indians in South Korea, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that in his one year in power, the world's perception of India had changed and people had become excited about returning to their country. Chopra said, “I am really looking forward to returning to India this summer and I hope that my ancestral home will welcome my decision to forgo my British Passport in return for an Indian nationality. India is where my spirit lives and I hope
that I can one day represent the country I love on a national footballing stage. I was born in Britain, brought up in Newcastle but, phi bhi dil hain Hindustani.” Having acknowledged his British background for most of his career, Chopra now hopes that his Grandparent’s homeland will adopt him with open arms. Over four years ago, Chopra took the first steps towards receiving an Indian passport by applying for his OCI (Overseas Citizens of India) card, which after five years, allows a person to apply for the passport.
BYSA Launches Girls Team The Birmingham Youth Sports Academy (BYSA) has announced football coaching is now open for girls. Located at the Saltley Leisure Centre, the BYSA is a voluntary charity organisation that provides football coaching to grassroots level of the community. Talking to The Asian Today, Anwar Khattak, Welfare Officer of the organisation said, “We have been established since 2002 and still going strong, so
the BYSA has decided to expanded for 2015. It has now two teams entered in the Sandwell minor league under 10's and under 12's. We have FA qualified coaches to give the children that extra touch and attention.” He added, “I am proud to announce we now have a girls football team starting soon, on the 16th August 2015 at Saltley Leisure Centre which will be female coaches hosting that side of the project and is opened for
Organisation Aims to Provide Girls with Football Training
ages 6 -16 years of age cost £2 per person. The BYSA has a treat for the members within the organisation in which we have organised a project with Liverpool FC or Arsenal FC this is to show
Continued from pg 71 Young cricket stars of the future aged seven and younger also got their chance to shine in front of the England star thanks to some Kwik cricket activity. Speaking about the event, Moeen said, “Today has been amazing. To be back home, the area where I grew up, and give back to the community a little bit and be part of Chance to Shine again, it’s been fantastic.” Talking about Chance to Shine Street, Moeen said, “It keeps them off the streets and cricket can teach them a lot about life. It’s about giving back to the communities and giving children
vocational and educational side of things and to aim high in their lives.” The organisation now has a new committee member on board. Majid Salim has joined the team as the new
an opportunity. Lycamobile do that brilliantly. To give a child an opportunity in life is a big thing. I was very fortunate that I had it. Not everybody gets that opportunity.” When asked about the Warwickshire County Board coaches Moeen added, “I’ve known these guys for a very long time and they do a great job for the kids. They need a lot of help and support. To do this (coach) every day is not easy. These guys are the unsung heroes. They do a lot for the community.” Talking about meeting Moeen, Chance to Shine Street participant Kashif, 14, said,
chairman. He said, “I am delighted to be on board and leading the BYSA forward in helping it achieve its goals and hopes to promote the organisation and take it to the next level.”
"As an England fan it's really exciting to have Moeen here. I was really happy to have a Q&A with him and he showed us how to grip the ball. This is the power of cricket. We're local lads and it shows that famous cricketers can come from wherever, right?" Chance to Shine coach Mohammed Arif added, “Sport and specifically cricket, is the glue that brings everybody together. Whether you are part of a different part of the country, a particular background, it doesn’t matter. It is life changing.” The event was part of Lycamobile’s, the world’s
Amir Khan has expressed his disappointment after not being chosen as Floyd Mayweather Jr’s opponent in his next fight. The Bolton fighter had hoped to fight the American, however he will not face Andre Berto. Former welterweight champion Berto has 30 wins and three losses before his bout with his fellow American. Khan had thought he was leading the race to secure a matchup with Mayweather after beating Chris Algieri in June, however, the American has decided to go for an opponent which has lost his last three fights, In a statement, Amir Khan said, “I’m disappointed not to have got the fight for what is the third time after having been one of the frontrunners. However, there are many big fights out there for me and I’m going to continue working hard to establish myself at the top of the welterweight division. Floyd Mayweather has fought the biggest names throughout his career and has earned the right to face whoever he chooses. I wish my stablemate Andre Berto and trainer Virgil Hunter the very best of luck in the fight. I have seen how hard Andre trains and works and know that he is ready to give Floyd a very tough night.”
biggest international mobile virtual network operator, mission to connect communities and friends and family around the world. Thanks to Chance to Shine Street, children in inner-city areas will be off the streets and playing cricket. Chance to Shine Street was launched in 2008 to bring cricket to young people in urban areas where there are few green spaces and fewer traditional cricket clubs. The charity is also using the game to promote social cohesion and connect young people from different backgrounds in diverse communities.
70
AUGUST 2015
#AT 200
TURN TO PAGE 25 TO READ THE FULL STORY
Naughty Words!
NEWS
WWW.THEASIANTODAY.COM
Hameed Named England U19 Captain Haseeb Hameed has been handed the captaincy role as England U19s face Australia U19s during this Ashes summer. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced the Lancashire batsman Haseeb Hameed will lead the side in the standalone four-day match at the Emirates Durham ICG from 4 – 7 August. Eighteen-year-old Aneurin Donald (Glamorgan) will then take over captaincy duties for the five Royal London 50-over matches on August 11 (South Northumberland CC), 14 (Chesterfield CC), 17 (The 3aaa County Ground, Derbyshire), 20 (Grace Road, Leicestershire), and 22 August (New Road,
Worcestershire). Fast bowler Saqib Mahmood has also been added to the squad and is the only one of the two to have debuted in Lancashire’s first team this season. The duo have toured Australia in April with the U19s. Hameed and Mahmood, meanwhile, have both been named in a separate 16-man squad for a five-match one-day series. Hameed has had little captaincy experience, doing it only on a couple of occasions for Lancashire U14s and once for the club’s Academy side in a Northern League game at St Anne’s in 2013. England Development Programme Chairman of Selectors David Graveney said:
“It is a very exciting summer for England cricket, with the men’s Ashes level, the Women’s Ashes getting underway in Taunton tomorrow, and this England U19 v Australia U19 series on the horizon next month. “We have selected two separate and larger squads than normal, reflecting the number of young players currently featuring in firstteam county cricket. With the likes of Sam Curran and Mason Crane regularly playing First-Class cricket for Surrey and Hampshire, Head of the EDP Andy Hurry has carefully discussed what
For the Love of the Game Pakistan's Women Footballer Heads to Premier League
TURN TO PAGE 38-39 RESTRAINING ORDER FOR PCB
A Lahore Additional District Judge, in two separate suits, has granted the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) a stay order restraining former Test cricketers Sarfraz Nawaz and Aamir Sohail from commenting on the PCB and its former chairman Najam Sethi. Sohail and Sarfraz had been using derogatory remarks against the PCB and its executive committee chairman Sethi for quite sometime. Legal notices were served on both former cricketers telling them to stop using abusive and derogatory remarks against the PCB and its former chairman and apologise for their annotations. But the notices did not prevent or deter the duo from flaying the PCB and Sethi in both electronic and print media.
“England is a good base to pursue a professional footballing career, and we just want our players to have this opportunity to progress,”
W
ell if you did not follow Pakistani women football national team, you may reconsider it now. One lady is about to make football history
ZAF'S COLUMN
for Pakistan's national women footballers Shehneela Ahmed, Britain's first Asian female football agent, after months of talks and negotiations with
@All4YouthCIC
Get your voice heard this summer with TFMP! Local organisation The Future Melting Pot (TFMP) has started working with young people aged 16 to 24 in Washwood Heath and Shard End, finding out about barriers to employment. These areas of East Birmingham are particularly affected by unemployment, TFMP’s research will seek to engage with young people in a creative way. In Washwood
Heath, the organisation will enlist the help of community workers including Mohammed Zafran (Zaf for short), talking to young people from the area to find out their side of the story. Importantly, TFMP will explore the flipside of the coin: local employers. By interviewing companies of all sizes in Birmingham, the organisation will find out
• The future melting pot has started working with young people
officials from PFF is about to make history. Almira Rafeeque is set to try out for Premier league football club Tottenham Hotspur. Almira will be
what managers understand to be the issues stopping them from hiring out-of-work young people As a result of the engagement work, the organisation will then launch a programme that will help design pathways for young people to find lasting employment. Acting as a broker between young people, local council, training providers and employers, TFMP will link young people with appropriate jobs and training. The organisation's brokerage will mean that young people will receive the most appropriate support necessary, helping them to navigate the often complex
is best for the development of each individual player with their counties.
• CRICKET: Haseeb
Hameed given captaincy role as England U19s
Almira Rafeeque is set to try out for Premier league football club Tottenham Hotspur looking to become the first Pakistan female footballer to make her debut in the English Premier League when she takes part in the trials for Tottenham Hotspurs. The 20-year-old old represented Pakistan for the first time at the South Asian Football Women’s Championship in November last year, and won the national women’s championship twice. Almira is still surprised at the turn in her footballing career. The midfielder, who was born in the UK, said she had returned to her home country in 2008 and started playing in Islamabad with Young Rising Stars FC the same year. She later returned to the UK for higher education but once again made her return to the footballing circuit with the same club back home in 2013. Shahneela Ahmed, her agent, said she believes the youngster can be a role model for many Pakistani
and fragmented web of opportunities and support. The uniqueness of this engagement will help the organisation understand youth unemployment at its roots, by understanding the issues young people face in their very own words. If you would like to take part in the research and offer your testimony, TFMP would like to hear from you in August. Visit TFMP website (www.thefuturemeltingpot. co.uk) and Twitter @ TFMPuk. Get your voice heard: contact c.obodum@ thefuturemeltingpot.co.uk. As part of the engagement, Zaf will be hosting sporting activities between 12pm and 4pm on 13th August
girls back home and in other parts of the world, while adding that she was hopeful of Almira’s tryouts with Spurs. “I’ll be working with Almira and other female footballers as they need proper guidance. I’ll do what I can to help them,” said Shehneela. On the other hand, PFF official Fahad Khan said that Almira’s tryouts are just the beginning for women’s football in the country. “England is a good base to pursue a professional footballing career, and we just want our players to have this opportunity to progress,” said Fahad. Beauty with talent, yes, that’s the most appropriate phrase that we can use for these exceptionally gifted ladies. They are not just a pretty face but an epitome of confidence, self belief and determination. Every woman in Pakistan can take them as an inspiration for following their dreams.”
at South and City College Bordesley Green Campus, Fordrough Lane, B9 5NA. All young people aged 16-24 are welcome to come along – there will be female coaches for women who would like to participate.
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
NEWS
AUGUST 2015
Sport
71
DO YOU HAVE A SPORTS STORY? Call us on 0121 667 8719
INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION OF CRICKET STARS
MOEEN ALI
E
ngland star Moeen Ali went back to his roots with a visit to a Chance to Shine Street session in Sparkhill, Birmingham where the allrounder grew up. Fresh from the second Investec Ashes Test at Lord’s, Moeen joined local youngsters aged eight-14 in playing ‘street’ cricket at Sparkhill Park thanks to the ongoing partnership between Chance to Shine and Lycamobile. The participants and Moeen played a fast-paced version of the game which uses a tapeball – a tennis ball wrapped in electrical tape – where innings lasts for 20 balls and games for 20 minutes. The games take place often in hard courts and community centres in urban areas, rather than on leafy traditional grass pitches. CONTINUED ON PG 61
BACK
TO HIS ROOTS Moeen Gives Children a Chance to Shine
CLEARED • CLEARED: Sprinter Mo Farah has been cleared of any doping allegations.
A
review by the country’s athletics body has cleared sprinter, Mo Farah of any doping allegations. Claims surfaced against Mo Farah's coach Alberto Salazar after he was accused of practising doping techniques on athletes. The UK Athletics department has said the double Olympic champion could not be accused. In a statement by the department, it said, “UK Athletics can confirm that the Board have this week received the initial findings of the review by its Performance Oversight Group (POG) into the engagement with the
• CHANCE TO SHINE: England Cricket Moeen Ali in a Chance to Shine street session in Sparkhill, Birmingham
Oregon Project. “Due to the subsequent launch of a formal investigation by USADA and UKAD into allegations made in the BBC Panorama programme of 3 June, the findings from the UKA review will now need to be shared with UKAD, at their request, prior to any wider circulation. “The Board does not expect to be able to make a public announcement of the outcome of its POG findings until after the World Athletics Championships in Beijing. “However, with reference to the first and
most vital objective of the review, the Board can confirm that none of the extensive information supplied to the POG contained any evidence of impropriety on the part of Mo Farah, nor gave UK Athletics any reason to question the appropriateness of the input given by the Oregon Project to Mo Farah's training regime. “UK Athletics continues to take the issue of doping violations in sport extremely seriously and will assist UKAD and other relevant authorities in their important work whenever required.”
UK Athletics Finds No Evidence Against Mo Farah
72
AUGUST 2015
TO ADVERTISE CALL NOW ON 0121 667 8719
ADVERT