The Asian Today Issue 247 – June 2019 by The Asian Today

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The 72nd Cannes Film Festival rolled out its red carpet in May and the event featured a 12-day festival in the French Riveria. During all the glitz and glamour stars got together from across the world celebrating artists and films. A total of 1845 feature films were submitted for the official selection this year, however no Indian film made it to the official selection of the festival for the first time in a decade and neither was there any Indian talent in any of the jury this year.

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Since the festival began in 1946, Indian pictures have walked away with several major prizes and this year no film was showcased The festival had a host of Bollywood stars who graced the red carpet and this included Deepika Padukone, Kangana Ranaut, Aishwarya RaiBachchan , Sonam Kapoor,Ahuja,Huma Qureshi and Priyanka Chopra Jonas who attended with her husband Nick. Actress Huma Qureshi, 32-year-

old said “It is a shame, “The kind of films that come to Cannes are very niche in India, because it’s not the quintessential Bollywood film.” she believes it is time to start pushing the boundaries of cinema in India, which last year churned out more than 1,800 films — more than any other country on Earth. Indian cinema’s main focus has been on big-budget hits rather than the more art-house pictures that tend to gain traction at Cannes and other international festivals.

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ONE GIANT LEAP FOR AWARNESS Saqib Bhatti President of The Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce raising funds for Prostate Cancer

SISTERS BREAKING THE STEROTYPES OF ASIAN WOMEN

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MORE THAN 40,000 MEN ARE DIAGNOSED WITH PROSTATE CANCER EVERY YEAR IN ENGLAND.

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IN THE UK, ABOUT 1 IN 8 MEN WILL GET PROSTATE CANCER AT SOME POINT IN THEIR LIVES. OVER 47,000 MEN ARE DIAGNOSED WITH PROSTATE CANCER EVERY YEAR – THAT'S 129 MEN EVERY DAY.

BIRMINGHAM INDIAN FILM FESTIVAL PAGE 24

reater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce president Saqib Bhatti got a taste of what to expect from his forthcoming charity parachute jump when he visited the Bear Grylls Adventure. Intrepid Saqib will be jumping from a plane on 28

June to raise money for his charity of the year, Prostate Cancer UK. He chose to support this cause after GBCC chairman David Waller and past president Greg Lowson were diagnosed with – and successfully overcame – prostate cancer. continued on page 2

SIZZLING FEAST IN ROWLEY REGIS PG 26

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“Prostate cancer is one of the biggest killers of men in the UK. Yet it is not spoken enough and there is a taboo around getting yourself checked out. " continued from front page

Ahead of the big jump, which coincides with Andy Street’s ‘Mayor’s Giving Day’, Saqib visited the state-of-the-art Bear Grylls Adventure at the NEC for a trial run in their iFly simulator. Saqib said: “Prostate cancer is one of the biggest killers of men in the UK. Yet it is not spoken enough and there is a taboo around getting yourself checked out. It is really easy to do and is a simple blood test. Catching it early means you can treat it and the chances of survival are higher. This is one of those cancers that is beatable in the next 1015 years. We just need to raise awareness and do the relevant research.

I am putting my life on the line to raise awareness so all those men who have sufferred or who will suffer know that they aren’t alone. Two of our board members at the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce were diagnosed with Prostate Cancer and were able to get treated. I felt I had to do something and when you speak to people more and more people come to the forefront speaking of loved ones who have suffered from it. The hardest ones to listen to are the ones whose loved ones have died. We can beat this and every pound helps. Remember, every 45 minutes a man dies from it and 1 in 8 will be diagnosed with it. Prostate Cancer UK needs our help.”

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Saqib Bhatti - at The Bear Grylls Adventure, Solihull

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Signs and symptoms

Prostate cancer that’s contained inside the prostate (called localised prostate cancer or early prostate cancer) doesn’t usually cause any symptoms. That's why it's important to know about your risk. But some men might have some urinary problems. These can be mild and happen over many years and may be a sign of a benign

prostate problem, rather than prostate cancer. Find out more information about the possible symptoms of prostate cancer. If you're worried about your risk or are experiencing any symptoms, visit your GP or speak to our Specialist Nurses. Information provided by: www.prostatecanceruk.org

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Asda Eid Pre-Event Press Release

During Eid-ul-Fitr, Muslims across the UK will mark the end of Ramadan by celebrating a feast with their friends and family. After long hours of fasting, Eid allows everyone to enjoy experimenting with new recipes, taste new flavours and create traditional favourites sharing inspiration from one another.

Asda shoppers share their Eid rituals inspired by the memories of their celebrations. Every family celebrating Eid can create their Eid Daawat (feast), by shopping for all their ingredients under one roof in Asda. By catering to everyone, Asda serves all ranges from halal meat to different spices, fresh fruit and vegetables,

delicious desserts and traditional seasonings from your favourite brands. Asda takes pride in celebrating global foods as well as people from different cultures living in the UK. Whether you wish to create a traditional dish or want to try something new, Asda has all you need to appreciate and be thankful for a festive meal with your near and dear ones.

With the memory comes traditional aspects that are important during a festive occasion like Eid. Asda creates this authenticity with their foods to keep those memories intact and give a personal touch on Eid festivities. Khadija, a mum of two kids originally from Pakistan, believes that “the atmosphere of celebrating Eid in Pakistan is different in the UK. It’s like celebrating Christmas,

everyone is together, and it is a big holiday.” She remembers applying henna on the eve before and her father bringing fresh bread home each morning from a famous bakery in Pakistan. This ritual inspires Khadija to make her Eid here with family just as festive and as special as it was in Pakistan. She does this by making traditional food such a seviyan kheer (vermicelli kheer), that are passed around the table after prayers as well as experimenting with new flavours, all with help from Asda. She explains, “I buy more here from my local Asda as there is more range especially with world spices which I couldn’t get in Pakistan.” Sharing new flavours is an important part of Asda’s ethos as it inspires new dishes to be made from people of different backgrounds.

Global flavours are taken from around the world and planted in every local Asda store with their wide range of products. Blessy Syed found shopping at Asda part of her Eid ritual as she had only experienced Eid as a Christian living in Dubai. Now, living with her traditional Muslim in-laws in the UK, Blessy and her family enjoy making sheer khurma together for breakfast every Eid morning. She takes this traditional breakfast which is made in many Muslim household’s during a festive occasion and creates her own pudding with the Madinah Delight Khudri dates from her local Asda store. They remind Blessy of her home in Dubai and create a modern

Another mum who experienced the celebrations of Eid with her in-laws was

atmosphere around the dinner table. With Asda foods, Blessy can celebrate Eid with new experiences and experimenting with new flavours for herself and her family in the UK. Philippines born, Sabha, who found all her ingredients from her local Asda supermarket. She explains that “it was something new for me,” and therefore she experienced traditional cuisines through her mother-in-law. When asked about her favourite aspect of Eid, she reminisces her mother-in-law visiting, cooking pulao and dal gosht as a “signature meal.” The dal gosht is a succulent lamb dish coated in a bowl

The halal ranges in Asda are popular during Eid festivities and many families enjoy browsing the selection of different meat that is on offer. Parveen Ashraf, a celebrity chef, and television personality is one mum who enjoys cooking meat for her friends and family. She tells Asda that her favourite part of Eid celebrations is the “smell of sweet cardamom in the morning combined with the smell of garam masala coated over the lamb chops at 8 in the morning.” Parveen’s childhood memory of the sweet and spicy aromas filling up the house are re-created using authentic seasoning as well as the ethnic meats which can be found freshly prepared every morning from

The variety of global food resonates with Ayesha Baig who loves to cook a selection of foods during Eid. As a modern and busy mum, Ayesha expresses her love for different foods but having to shop for everything last minute. She explains “that is the good thing about Asda. Even when you’re doing last minute shopping, you will always find what you are looking for to make the Eid special for adults and children and I have a big family!” Ayesha’s family would come together enjoying dishes such as biryani, kebabs, chutneys with fruits and trifles. She also expresses her love for gifting traditional sweets saying “if I visit someone’s house, I would take traditional Indian sweets with me. For example, the Royal Gulabjam is beautifully displayed in a festive orange box in Asda so that is always nice to give, and at a good price!”

of flavoursome lentil soup and served with fresh naan or rice. Sabha finds that the halal lamb in Asda is not only the right texture but easy to cook and melts off the bone. She also adds “I can rely on Asda each year when celebrating Eid as they make it easier for me rather than going to different stores individually, I can find everything in one place!” After their meal together they continue to enjoy the evening exchanging gifts to one another and sharing stories of their beautiful memories back home.

Asda. Many preparing a meal for Eid take inspiration from their childhood memories like Parveen. The shopping experience at Asda is different for everyone but links them together enabling them to share global flavours

during their Eid feast. Such diversity of cultures rejoice during this celebration and Asda welcomes all flavours from around the world to bring authenticity and originality into everyone’s home. You can find all the ingredients you need for your Eid Dawaat at Asda

so go to your local stores now and see what unique dishes to can put together to share your Eid stories with us. Asda are there to make your Eid special and therefore with the finest ingredients, Asda makes sure old memories come alive again.

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Plans have been approved for a new centre for the homeless in Wolverhampton. The Good Shepherd Resource Centre will move to a new site in Waterloo Road where it will offer up to 30 overnight shelter spaces for rough sleepers. The move spells the start of a new partnership with Enterprise Homes Group – which includes the Wolverhampton Church Shelter. It will also see the Good Shepherd’s daily food service for the homeless, previously based at Darlington Street Methodist Church, run from the new base in the city centre. “We are pleased that our application to move premises has been approved by Wolverhampton Council, and can now proceed with the necessary work required to complete the move,” said Tom Hayden, operations manager at the Good Shepherd. “We remain hugely grateful to Darlington Street Methodist Church,

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where we have been based since 2003, but unfortunately we have now outgrown that premises in terms of the services that we need to supply. “The new resource centre will allow us to provide so much more support as we address poverty and homelessness, including not just the much-needed food service but also clinical and counselling space to provide health and wellbeing advice, and training to help people into employment. “The new link-up with Enterprise Homes offering overnight shelter ties in with our joint vision of becoming a ‘one-stop shop’ to support people from homelessness into temporary accommodation whilst meeting their health needs and providing opportunities for them to gain the skills and knowledge needed to become self-reliant.

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Mum of Twins Seeking Stem Cell Donor With Support of MP A

Leicestershire MP is supporting a mum of twins who is desperately seeking a stem cell donor. Meena Kumari-Sharma has acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), a rare form of blood cancer. Meena is living with her mum, Renu Dhunna, 61, in Oadby, while she fights the disease, this means she is separated from her beloved five-year-old twins, Mia and Krish, who are living with their father in St Albans, Hertfordshire. Meena has undergone bouts of chemotherapy at Leicester Royal Infirmary. And since March last year, she has been searching for a stem cell donor who could save her life. Meena, 41-years-old has mounted a social media campaign called #Match4Meena, and held a number of recruitment drives across Leicestershire and elsewhere in the country, but has yet to find a suitable match . There is a lack of black, Asian and mixed-race people on the register of potential blood stem cell donors. Neil O’Brien, MP for Harborough, Oadby and Wigston is supporting her campaign to find a stem cell match. He said: “The strength, courage and determination that Meena is showing in her pursuit of a match is

incredibly inspiring. "The odds are unfortunately stacked against Meena because of her ethnicity, and so we’re hoping to encourage as many people from all walks of life to join the register.” Meena said: “I am very much still actively searching for a donor. It really is a quick and easy process to join, so I’d strongly encourage anyone to register in the hope that they can help save a life like mine.

“Blood cancer is something that can happen to anyone at any time, so the more people we have on the register the better we’re able to tackle it together.” There will be a stem cell donor drive on Sunday, May 26, at the Summer Mela, being held at Leicester Racecourse, in Oadby, from 11am-7pm. To register as a stem cell donor, visit the DKMS website. www.dkms.org.uk/en

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POSTBOXES PAINTED Tesco Worker Racially BLUE BY ROYAL MAIL Abused Over £4.50 Bill To mark the launch of the Cricket World Cup In Birmingham, special blue-coloured postboxes are being unveiled by Royal Mail. The postboxes will be located in each of the tournament's venues across the UK and placed close to the stadiums. Games will be held during the six-week tournament, which starts with England v South Africa on Thursday and ends with the final at Lord's on July 14. Each postbox will be decorated with information about England players born in the area. Mark Street, head of campaigns at Royal Mail said: "We take the opportunity to celebrate Great British traditions where we can, and what better occasion than the honour of being the host

nation for the cricket World Cup. "We are delighted to honour this quintessentially British sport and important occasion on our iconic postboxes." Paul Smith, of the International Cricket Council (ICC), added: "This ... will help bring the tournament to life in our host cities "We saw the amazing interest around the Olympic Games postboxes and we expect these versions to do the same thing. "We have worked hard to deliver a World Cup atmosphere outside of the cricketing stadiums with our free to enter fanzones and city activations, and this is another great way of engaging members of the public in this amazing tournament."

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A Tesco worker was racially abused after the customer’s Apple Pay had failed to settle a £4.50 shopping bill. Mohammed Abdulla shouted and swore at a staff member at the Tesco Express in Melton Road, Leicester, claiming he felt embarrassed that other shoppers thought he might not be able to afford such a small amount. Abdulla, 20, confronted the woman telling her “You are Indian, have you got a passport? “You are illegal. You shouldn’t be in this country.” “I bet your visa has run out.” Abdulla appeared at Leicester

Magistrates Court to admit a charge of causing racially aggravated harassment, alarm and distress at 1.45pm on January 10. Safina Desai, prosecuting, said Abdulla was known to the member of staff and became agitated when his payment was declined. She said the woman was on her own and felt threatened at the time and pressed the assistance button so colleagues could come to her aid. Mrs Desai said: “The language was racist, rude and insulting.” The victim has lived in the UK

for 35 years and said she loved her job but had not been enjoying it since the confrontation with Abdulla. District judge Nick Watson told Abdulla: “Your comments were deeply offensive towards (the complainant). “She was the only cashier and was clearly frightened by your behaviour.” He gave Abdulla a one year community order and told him attend 12 sessions at an attendance centre. He ordered the defendant to pay the Tesco employee £85 in compensation.

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TEENAGER LEAVES FRIEND IN ROAD AFTER CRASHING CAR A teenager who has not passed his driving test, crashed an uninsured car leaving his friend ‘gravely injured’ in the middle of the road as he ran off. Zaheer Patel,18, picked up a friend at 3.30am after messaging her to see if she wanted to go for a drive. Minutes later crashed the car into a kerb and telegraph pole, rolling the car several times before it came to rest on its roof. Patel from Vicarage Garden, Humberstone, was driving a Peugeot 206 that he shared with friends, on Thurncourt Road. The girl in the passenger seat was who was not wearing a seatbelt shoot out of the car and left ‘gravely injured’ in the road. The crash which happened in the early hours of December 5, 2018, were revealed as Patel appeared at Leicester Magistrates’ Court and pleaded guilty to several driving offences including leaving the scene of an accident, driving with no insurance and driving without due care and attention. Sally Bedford, prosecuting

said that after the crash, Patel ran off. An hour-and-a-half later he turned up at her house to apologise to her parents, who had already been contacted by police. The girl suffered severe multiple injuries including a bleed to the brain, broken jaw which required a metal plate, broken arm which had to be pinned and plated, stitches in her arm, two broken ribs, a burst lung and multiple lacerations and bruising all over her body. Representing Patel, Paul Tubb said: “He said to me ‘I’ve hurt a lot of people, my friend and her family, I feel for what they are going through. And my family too. “He said it was such a stupid decision, the worst decision he has ever made. “He is very remorseful and sorry for what he did.” The chairperson of the magistrates' bench said: “You’re going to have to live with this for the rest of your life and it’s a very large learning point that you’ve got to stay with you. “Mr Tubb said you told him that it was the worst decision of your life, I think the worst

decision you ever made was getting involved with that car in the first place. “I suspect whatever we say to you, you’ve heard before and probably worse from your parents, but here you are and we have to decide what to do with you. “Failing to stop is the most serious charge and although we accept you stayed with this young woman until paramedics arrived, you then left. The magistrates gave Patel a 12 month community order

and sentenced him to carry out 200 hours unpaid work that will start after he has completed his upcoming A level exams. Patel’s licence, which is currently a provisional, will be endorsed for having no insurance. He was also handed a £120 fine for driving without due care and attention and ordered to pay an £85 victim surcharge and £85 costs. No compensation was awarded to the victim as there is an ongoing civil case.

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BYSA to hold 17th Gala Dinner at Villa Park This year Birmingham Youth Sports Academy (BYSA) will celebrate their 17th Year with a Gala Dinner at Aston Villa Football Club to top off what has been a remarkable year for the charity. On top of receiving a number of top accolades including the Queens Award, they launched Mentoring and Education programs which have both deployed successfully. Formed in 2002, BYSA has relentlessly been on a Mission to positivity influence the lives of young people through positive role models. What started off as a small community project has turned into a plethora of projects each increasing the BYSA footprint. Their work in the community is important, helping young people better connect with the wider society. This year they were interviewed by BBC News about their community work during the Knifecrime epidemic that swept the nation and also were commended by the Police and Crime Commissioner. The annual dinners are

always sell out events and this year the event will be hosted by the BBC’s Manish Bhasin and the dinner always attracts Football Royalty in the form of former players such as Mark Walters, Ian Rush and Gary Shaw. It also attracts actual Royalty including Princess Katarina of Yugoslavia who has been an Ambassador of BYSA for a number of years. The dinner is being hosted at Aston Villa Football Club on Friday 21st June and will celebrate the organisation's achievements with entertainment being provided by Kev Orkian and John Clegg who appeared on Britain’s Got Talent. It promises to be another great

night celebrating a fantastic organisation that is making a real difference on the streets of Birmingham.

For more information about the dinner or BYSA visit their website at www. BYSA.co.uk

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Dangerous Driver MEGA TOWER SET TO BE BIRMINGHAM’S TALLEST BUILDING Speeds Across Developer court collaboration is behind project to build 51-storey tower containing hundreds of new apartments. Plans to develop what will be Birmingham’s tallest building have been revealed. City developer courts collaboration is behind the £160 million ‘one Eastside’ project to construct a 51-storey residential tower at the corner Jennens Road and James Watt Queensway. There would also be a second building of 15 stores and together they would contain 667 apartments of one and two bedrooms available for rent only. The proposals include a roof-top private dining and bar area, communal facilities such as a gym, fitness studio, resident’s lounge, café, cinema room and flexible working and meeting space. There will also be commercial space on the ground floor with opportunites for shops to have locations there. If approved by city planning chiefs, the larger tower would stand at 525 ft, giving it the title of Birmingham’s Tallest structure ahead of the BT Tower in the Jewellery Quarter which is 499 ft. Court Collaboration founder Anthony McCourt said "We've been engaged in a detailed pre-application

process over the past nine months and done a huge amount of consultation and discussion already. "We have done a lot of work with Birmingham City Council on this and they have been supportive of height as long as the design is there as well. "We are confident we can get this through. It is a gateway site to the city centre and Birmingham deserves this. "It will be a real statement when you walk around there and for passengers getting off HS2 in Curzon Street. "If we look at other regional cities, in Manchester they are on site building a 65-storey tower so we still have some way to go to match them. "I know from other developers that there are tall projects coming across the city over the next 18 months." The amenities will be available for the residents only, including the sky bar, something Mr McCourt called an "amazing offer" and one he was confident would be able to survive as a sustainable business. Asked whether he was worried about Birmingham's city centre residential market becoming saturated over the next few years, Mr McCourt said: "The market will determine whether there is too much product. "There is a lot of activity in the city but our economy can

Pavement

take this, particularly with the amount of job creation happening. "These apartments are not going to be shoe boxes and developers are having to up their games in terms of spec and quality because of the amount of construction happening."

The project has been designed by Jewellery Quarter-based practice Glancy Nicholls Architects. Plans are due to be lodged with the city council by June and work is expected to start in November subject to planning approval and be completed by the end of 2022.

Pedestrians including children had to quickly jump out the way when a speeding car mounts the pavement and damages parked cars. Police are looking into how a dangerous driver drove onto Third Avenue, in Bordesley Green forcing children and a cyclist to jump out of the way. The quick-thinking children immediately leapt into a driveway to escape being run over by the car before 'bursting into tears', witnesses said. The speeding grey vehicle scrapped alongside other parked cars, leaving five damaged. No one was injured and police are appealing for information. One local resident said two children, a boy and a girl aged around eight or nine, were in tears after they jumped out the path of the speeding car. She said: “I was sitting inside and I heard a loud bang. “I came running out and heard all the commotion. The car was driving along the pavement at

speed. “People were jumping out of the way. There were kids there because it was a half day, they jumped out of the way. “When I came out, they were crying. It’s shocking.” Taxi driver Nadeem Ansari’s white Pruis Hybrid people carrier was damaged and the wing mirror on his wife's car was torn off in the rampage. Mr Ansari, 52, who was at home preparing for prayers when it happened, said: “One man was walking and one person was on a bike. They both went into my driveway. Car damage is fine, as long as children are safe.” A spokeswoman for West Midlands Police said: "We were called at 1pm on May 17th. Five cars were damaged. There were no injuries and no one has been arrested. "Enquiries continue." Anyone with information is asked to contact police quoting log number 1005 of May 17.

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Market Trader owner from Birmingham is forking out £1,200 each month a Range Rover that he hasn’t driven since September 2018. Abid Shah from Small Heath purchased the luxury Autobiography model in September 2016 that cost him £150,000. Abid signed up to a fouryear financial agreement, which is due to end next year in 2020 and paid a £25,000 deposit. The day after driving it off the forecourt in Peterborough, Abid started to face problems with the car. "I haven't seen the car since September," explained fuming customer Abid. "It's been at the dealership in Wolverhampton ever since. "You want to see the state of it. "I purchased it with a topspec, it's the black edition with the grand alloy wheels. "Problems include water leaking into the car because the rubber seals were not fitted correctly. "The heads-up display vibrates when music is

played at a medium volume. "I've even cut my finger because a sharp metal strip was exposed in the centre console. "The door trims haven't been fitted correctly, either. "The speedometer just kept switching itself off as well while I was driving, so I couldn't even tell what speed I was doing. "Not only that but I was given standard tyres and I had a flat almost straight away. "It's been problem after problem but the worst of it was when I was driving on the motorway, the bonnet popped open while I was still driving. "Luckily, I managed to pull over onto the hard shoulder. I couldn't believe it." Abid was denied a likefor-like trade for his Range after he had an immobiliser installed by a third party. "I had a security immobiliser (device which prevents engine from running unless correct car key is present) fitted by a reputable brand.

"I needed this in order to get the car insured. Jaguar Land Rover even accepted the security device did not cause the damage to the vehicle. "But they are still denying to replace my car, the car I'm still paying £1200-a-month for and have done since purchasing it almost four years ago. "I've had a number of courtesy cars but, since December, I've been left without one. "I'm now having to get the bus to work and use public transport everywhere I go. "It's so frustrating, I cannot tell you. "It's not good enough. I'm locked in a financial agreement, I get that, but the customer care from Land Rover has been absolutely shocking. "It's costing me an arm and a leg. "I've worked hard for my money, we all do. I got this car for work, to go out to customers and suppliers and I haven't been able to do that."

"JLR even confirmed in writing that they recognised the car had a manufacturing fault within 30 days of purchase. "But, because I had a security immobiliser fitted which was for my insurance, they have continued to refuse to replace it. "Since having the car it's spent more time in dealerships than out on the road." Land Rover, meanwhile, said it is hopeful of finding a "mutually satisfactory resolution as soon as possible". A Land Rover spokesman said: "Land Rover always aims to provide excellent customer service. "In this particular case, the fitment of a non-approved tracker, which we believe has been poorly fitted by a third party, has potentially caused some of the issues Mr Shah has experienced. "We are actively negotiating with Mr Shah to find a mutually satisfactory resolution as soon as possible."

Masked thugs stabbed an aid worker after he attended early morning prayers. The gang stormed into his home just before 3am on Sunday 1 June smashing the porch door. Ahmed Mohamed, 41-years old from Showell Green Lane, Sparkhill was stabbed as tried to fight off the men. Mr Mohamed, was treated for a four-inch wound at Birmingham's Queen Elizabeth Hospital. The victim said: “It lasted around seven minutes. I didn’t want to appear scared of them. I thought why has this happened to me? “I don’t have not ever had a problem with anybody. Recently, drug dealers have started coming into the area.” Mr Mohamed, who has delivered aid to Lesbos, Greece four times and is due to travel to Jordan to help Syrian refugees, attended prayers at Green Lane Mosque and returned home around 2.30am. He said: “I was upstairs, my sister called me from Iraq and I was talking when I thought the house was shaking. I thought: ‘What’s going on?’" He ran downstairs and encountered the thugs, who had broken the porch door and were

Hundreds of children who attend Anderton Park Primary School have been taken out as protesters continue to campaign against the teaching of LGBT. Shakeel Afsar who, this week, argued with MP Jess Phillips who turned up to support the LGBT community, confirmed a preplanned rally would be going ahead on Friday. Mr Afsar, who shouts into a megaphone outside the gates in Moseley, claims demonstrations have continued because the school is using "children as pawns". Mr Afsar whose children do not attend the school is the main organiser of the protests. Mr Afsar claims teaching about LGBT equality at Anderton Park School is "over-emphasising a gay ethos". He added: "The parents in school feel, first and foremost, the children are too young, and second that it

is counter to their moral and ethical values." He has rejected allegations the protests are homophobic, claiming the school should respect the protesters' "moral beliefs". In an exchange outside the school on Monday, Labour MP Jess Phillips told Mr Afsar demonstrators could not "pick and choose" which equality they apply. The city council sent a community protection warning to Mr Afsar on May 2, directing him not to interfere or attempt to interfere with the school's operation. Chief Constable Dave Thompson said he watched with "increasing concern" as a group of protesting parents have gathered outside the gates in Dennis Road. He added: "Frankly, a primary school is no place for the continuance of a large scale protest, however lawful. "In this holy period of Ramadan, and as we

celebrate Birmingham Pride in our city, I urge those involved and those who can influence these events to think again and consider how they can come together to discuss these strongly held views and bring this protest to an end. Meanwhile, the MP for the city primary school, Roger Godsiff, has said four and five-year-olds are too young to learn about LGBT. Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street, has issued his stance on the protests outside Anderton Park Primary School. He said: "My heart goes out to the pupils of Anderton Park who are having to walk past these protests every day. "This is not the environment they should be attending school in and nothing will be resolved by megaphone diplomacy. Both sides must sit down and talk. "It should also be clarified that this is not LGBT

teaching, it is equalities teaching that is part of a national requirement.

"The LGBT element is very small and, according to the schools, age-appropriate.

coming through a second door. He said: “I think there were five men but am not sure. They wore black scarves, I couldn’t see their faces. “They did not say anything. Two or three had a knife each and one had a stick. One of them dropped a knife which the police took. “I started to fight them. One of them tried to stop me but he stabbed my head with a knife. I felt there was something warm coming down my face and blood coming into my mouth. “But I was still fighting with them, trying to kick them out.” His ordeal ended when they ran off. Neighbours came to his aid and called the emergency services. A West Midlands Police spokeswoman said: “Police were called to Showell Green Lane, Sparkhill at around 2.50am on Saturday (1 June) to reports of disorder. “A man was found with a head wound and taken to hospital to receive treatment for his injuries. “No arrests have been made at this stage and enquiries are ongoing.” Anyone with information is asked to contact police quoting crime reference number 20BE/129283A/19.

"I absolutely defend the right of schools to carry out this teaching."

LGBT Protest Outside Primary School

JUNE 2019

PLANS FOR SIKH TEMPLE ON HOLD

Plans for a Sikh temple is set to be put on hold to allow councillors to visit the site on South Road, Smethwick. Members of Sandwell ’s planning committee have been asked to carry out their own inspection of the proposed place of worship and if built would be opposite the Grade II listed Holy Trinity Church. Afghan Sikh Ekta Charitable Foundation is applying for permission to demolish the present travel agent building. The site sits on the edge of Smethwick Town Centre Conservation Area and local ward councillor, Linda Horton, has raised concerns regarding its historic nature and insufficient parking. The council has also received three objections after the plans were

Handsworth Gurdwara Windows Smashed NEWS

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publicised to local residents. The application proposes to demolish the existing building and replace it with a two-storey place of worship measuring 27 metres wide by 12 metres deep and high. It also is also proposes 24 off-road car parking spaces at the side and rear of the property. In 1999, the council gave permission for the site to be converted into a travel agents with living accommodation for staff. If councillors agree to the council officers’ recommendation for a site visit, a full planning application will be discussed at the committee’s July meeting. Cllr Horton and the Afghan Sikh Ekta Charitable Foundation have been contacted for comment.

Sikh community site Shere Panjab announced the vandalism attack on its Facebookpage. The post said: "After a few of our Sevadars arrived at the Gurdwara sahib and spoke to the management committee we were able to clarify that this attack was not racially motivated. "We can also confirm the Gurdwara does have CCTV which they decided to handed over to the authorities "Our first intention was to make sure Guru Maharaj was safe and no sangat (fellowship) had been hurt. "Whatever the motive or politics behind the situation our Gurdwara’s should not be attacked, we will continue to monitor the situation and update sangat further on this matter."

Sikh temple on Rookery Road in Handsworth had its windows smashed in a callous vandal attack on the evening of Tuesday 28 May. West Midlands Police are investigating after the Gurdwara Bebe Nanaki Ji had bricks thrown through windows.

Police have appealed for witnesses or people with information to contact them. A West Midlands Police spokesman said the force did not believe the attack was racially motivated. He added: "Enquiries continue and anyone with information is asked to

contact police via Live Chat at www.west-midlands. police.uk between 8am and midnight, or call 101 anytime quoting crime reference 20BW/126384P/19. "Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 555 111." Handsworth Panjabi

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terraced home in Lyme Road in Evington, Leicester, and walked round the corner to Devana Road where he saw that his car, as well as two others, had been hit by a car. He said: “There was a knock at the door and the boy said my car was damaged in the accident." “The car had damaged three parked vehicles. Police arrived and a

male was breathalysed and arrested. The Leicestershire road policing unit later tweeted photographs from the scene, showing the Mercedes C1 up on two wheels and partially on top of the other Mercedes. The other cars damaged were a red Ford Focus and a grey Honda Civic, which were parked either side of Bhupendra’s Mercedes in Devana Road.

EMAIL: editorial@theasiantoday.com

Parked Cars Damaged After Crash A

man from Leicester woke up to find another car partly on top of his after a crash on the morning of Sunday 19 May. Bhupendra Patel said that a boy from his neighbourhood knocked on the door to tell him there had been a car crash and his Mercedes C200 was badly damaged. Bhupendra, 62, left his

Sisters Breaking The Stereotypes of Asian Women Two sisters who are encouraging other women to break the typical stereotypes of Asian Women talk how they have built confidence in themselves and healthier lives, Growing up sisters, Sahida and Wehida rarely played outside while they were growing up in Ward End. They became short on confidence, and struggled to get out to meet other people. But as adults they have pursued more active, sociable lives even running half-marathons between them, including finishers’

medals from events in Dublin, Edinburgh and Newcastle. Sahida and Wehida both give credit to their achievements to joining Saheli Hub, which has received funding from the National Lottery and is helping women in Birmingham. Earlier in May they took part in Velo Birmingham & Midlands during Ramadan, after being granted special permission from organisers to take part in 10 miles of the 100 mile closed road course. “We were nervous at first

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about being women out and about cycling on the roads in a predominantly Asian and Pakistani Muslim area,” said NHS worker Sahida, aged 45. “But this project has helped to break down the stereotypes of the typical Asian woman who stays at home and never goes out. “Men have been stopping their cars to let us pass and, because Saheli are very visible, women have stopped us to ask who we are and where we meet. “Everyone has been really supportive and now I see women in headscarves out cycling in Ward End. “It’s encouraging and heart-warming to see that they are leading healthier lives in a city that is moving towards cleaner air and a better environment. “It’s not just about sport, we go out for meals at the weekend and socialise and there’s also allotment gardening, knit and natter, crochet and chai and Zumba,” Sahida said. “There also a sense of community and a sense of achievement within the group.” Wehida, 48, has also spoken about how she has grown in confidence and has been joined on rides by her

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18-year-old daughter, Sanna. “Even after all this, I still lack confidence but the group always encourage me, always motivate me and we push each other,” said Wehida, who works in a children’s centre. “My daughter has learned to ride a bike as well and taken up cycling and running. “She has gone on to university to study bioscience but is considering sport as a career. “We have taken part in events together where it’s been nervy out on the road but I’ve stayed strong for her and because it is about parents setting the right example for their children.” Saheli was established in 1998, to a need for women’sonly community health and well-being activities, with a study carried out for the charity finding this should take into account the culturally-sensitive needs of local Muslim women.

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Run across three 'wellbeing hubs', including the main base by Calthorpe Park in Balsalll Heath, along with Handsworth and Bordesley Green, the project's activities reach around 1,500 women every year. Sahida and Wehida recently joined 30 cyclists wearing safety gear and pink Saheli T-shirts who took part in a 10mile ride for the project’s first outing at the Vélo. In Ward End Park, classes and rides are run for different abilities every Saturday and Sunday. Cycling groups are also run by Saheli in Balsall Heath, Saltley and Handsworth. Naseem Akhtar, Saheli Hub’s project manager, is a whirl of energy and enthusiasm as the women gather bikes and safety gear on the crisp Saturday morning. “The cycling club was launched about two years ago,

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1984 12

FEATURE NEWS

JUNE 2019

b a j n u , r P a s t i Amr This year marks 35 Years since the tragedy that formed in the first week in June 1984 in Amritsar, Punjab, India. When the Indian Army had put Operation Blue Star into Action and stormed the Holy Sikh place of worship Harmandir Sahib Golden Temple.

n an attack that would cause an aftermath in the massacre of Sikhs in India and all around the world. The 1984 Sikh Massacre, was a series of organised massacres against Sikhs in India in response to the assassination of Indira Gandhi by her Sikh bodyguards. The then ruling party, Indian National Congress had been in active complicity with the mob, as to the organisation of the riots. Independent sources estimate the number of deaths at about 8,000–17,000 government estimates

project that about 2,800 Sikhs were killed in Delhi and 3,350 nationwide. Operation Blue Star was an Indian military operation carried out between 1st and 8th June 1984, ordered by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to remove militant religious leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and his armed militants from the buildings of the Harmandir Sahib complex in Amritsar, Punjab. Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale was in favour of The Khalistan movement a Sikh separatist movement, which seeks to create a separate country called Khalistan "The Land of the

Khalsa" in the Punjab region to serve as a homeland for Sikhs. Bhindranwale took up residence in The Akal Takht in the Golden Temple Complex to evade arrest. Bhindranwale later made the sacred temple complex an armoury and headquarters. Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and militants were removed from the temple complex, by the Indian Army. The military action in the temple complex was criticized by Sikhs worldwide who had taken the attack as an assault on Sikh religion. The Akal Takht located in

Harmandir Sahib is one of five takhts (seats of power) of the Sikhs. During Operation Blue Star the Akal Takht had been severely damaged by tanks and and gun fire by the Indian Army in an assault on militants based in the Golden Temple Complex and innocent Sikhs coming to pray caught up in the crossfire. Four months after the operation, on 31 October 1984, Indira Gandhi was assassinated in vengeance by her two Sikh bodyguards, Satwant Singh and Beant Singh. This had sparked an uproar and the genocide of Sikhs.

#NeverForget84

The Akal Takht - Heavily damaged by Tanks and Gun Fire by the Indian Army, in an attempt to remove Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and militants from the Golden Temple Complex in Amritsar.

Sant Ji tribute Sant Jarnail Singh Ji Khalsa Bhindrawale is one of the greatest saints and human rights activists to grace this earth. He remembered God at all times, read and explained the message of God through the Sikh Holy Scriptures and provided sanctuary and support to whoever needed it. He encouraged everyone to be true to their designated religion and practise the values of being good human

beings. The people who were close to him – whether that was his family, school teachers or supporters; they all say Sant Ji was a man who hardly spoke as he was focused on meditating upon God’s name. However, when he did speak out it was against injustice and oppression. His main aims were for the residents of Panjab to have equal rights (such as equal access to water, electricity

Many Sikhs around the world still hold rallies and marches, for justice to what happened to their families and loved ones and in honour and tribute for those that were massacred in the 1984 riots, due to the aftermath of Operation Blue Star and attack on Harmandir Sahib - Golden Temple. There have been a number of books and songs in rememberance of 1984 and a film by Diljit Dosanjh relating to what happened to Sikhs and Sardara in India during the riots. There are a some charities that donate to Shaheedi families where the riots were struck at its hardest.

and food resources), for the Sikh faith to be accepted as a separate but equal faith to all and for problems such as drugs and alcoholism to come to an end. The unjust authorities of India felt threatened from the great following Sant Ji had built. The government started becoming very unsuccessful in their tyrannical ways as Sant Ji had managed to protect and educate the weak and vulnerable.

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Financial Loss For Business Owners After Road Closure

SAJID JAVID VOWS TO PUT 20,000 POLICE ON THE STREETS

bridge that was struck by a lorry back in January has affected a group of businesses saying they are facing financial ruin after a vital road link was closed and was meant to re-open in February. A salvage yard, three car part firms and a café claim they have dramatically lost their trade in Landor Street, in Bordesley Green after a lorry smashed into the bridge. The closure was pushed back to May and they have now been told it could even be August or longer. The traders believe customers are not prepared to make the four mile detour to access the other end of Landor Street, which are made worse by additional closures in the area. Birmingham Council say they have repeatedly asked Network Rail when the road would be reopened but have "yet to receive a response." Meanwhile the rail company do not have an estimate for when the damaged collision protection beam will be built and installed on the bridge. The business owners are caught in the middle who have had to shed staff, reduce hours and carry on stumping up thousands of pounds in rent and bills. Mumtaz Hussain, from Elite Auto Salvage Spares said: “It’s affected us all we're all in the same boat. "When we go home, we have bills coming through the door and we can’t afford to pay. “I've laid off two people. I'm losing money left, right and centre, 98 per cent of my business has gone. I rely on footfall and my yard is empty. I’m frustrated calling Network Rail, we are going round in circles.” Aziz Khan, who owns Isa Tyres and Auto Spares Limited said: “No customers

are coming. We've lost 97 per cent of our business. We made £400 a day, now £50 because no one is coming. “If the road stays closed, my business will close. I owe £5,500 in rent for the last three months. It is very bad." Mohammed Banaris, who runs Kandor Spare Parts, said he pays £3,500 a month in rent and rates. He said: “Before, 10 customers would come a day, now two or three. Customers are going elsewhere. "We’ve been here since 1989 and we are worried. My daughter has rang the council and asked for a reduction in rates and rents.” Marie Mcloskey, from the Cabin Cafe, says two staff have left following a 60 per cent reduction in takings. “I’ve had to borrow money to pay rent and de-registered for paying VAT. It’s delay, delay, constant delay.” Mohammed Siar, who

A takeaway boss was jailed for manslaughter of a schoolgirl who suffered an allergic reaction has won an appeal against his conviction. Mohammed Abdul Kuddus was given a two-year jail sentence in November over the death of 15-year-old Megan Lee, after she ordered a meal from his Royal Spice take¬away using the Just Eat delivery website in 2016. She wrote “prawns, nuts” to highlight her allergies yet the meal contained peanut proteins. Court of Appeal judges, sitting in London, quashed his "unsafe" conviction for gross negligence manslaughter. Megan suffered a severe allergic reaction and died in

hospital two days later on New Year's Day 2017. A Home Office pathologist concluded her death was caused by a fatal asthma attack precipitated by an allergic reaction to nuts. Kuddus, the sole director of the takeaway,was convicted of manslaughter by a jury at Manchester Crown Court in October last year, along with manager Harun Rashid, who had previously sold the business to him. Three leading judges allowed an appeal by Kuddus, of Belper Street, Blackburn, ruling that his manslaughter conviction "cannot stand". Sir Brian Leveson, announcing the decision, said Megan's order, including the

Takeaway Boss Has Manslaughter Turned

manages 7 Day Parts, says sometimes they have had to close for a week. “I phoned the council and they pass me to Network Rail. Before I had 15 to 20 customers, now maybe one a day.” A Birmingham City Council spokeswoman said: “We can confirm that Landor Street was closed by Network Rail in January as an emergency measure due to the bridge being damaged when it was struck by a vehicle. “The council has since written to Network Rail on several occasions to ascertain when the repairs will be completed and to ask for an estimated re-opening date for the road, but we have yet to receive a response. “Given the understandable concerns raised by businesses in the area, we would therefore urge Network Rail to provide this information and ensure

that these works are carried out and the road re-opened without further delay.” A Network Rail spokesman said: “We understand the frustrations of businesses affected by the emergency road closure at Landor Street. It’s necessary to protect a bridge which has been hit by vehicles 128 times. “The protection beam, in place to protect the bridge, has been irreparably damaged after being hit 32 times in just 10 years. Its unique replacement will take several months to design, build and install. “Without a protection beam in place, the risk of another bridge strike and irreparable damage to the bridge and railway is too high. “We are in regular contact with Birmingham City Council and will keep everyone up to date as work to repair the bridge and reopen the road continues.”

ALLERGIC REACTION: Megan Lee

TAKEAWAY BOSS: Mohammed Abdul Kuddus comment about nuts and prawns, was seen by Rashid. There was "no evidence" that the order printout or comments on her order were "seen by or passed on to" Kuddus.

Sir Brian said: "He knew nothing of the allergy which she had declared. "In those circumstances, the conviction for gross negligence manslaughter cannot stand."

Bromsgrove MP Sajid Javid has vowed to oversee 20,000 extra police officers "pounding the pavements" if elected Prime Minister. Mr Javid, the current Home Secretary, told The Sun he would spend £1 billion over three years to put "police on the beat" and end a "culture of impunity" among criminals. Mr Javid is one of 11 vying to replace Theresa May as Prime Minister, with Cabinet colleagues Michael Gove, Jeremy Hunt and Matt Hancock also within the packed field. A string of fatal teen stabbings sparked a heated debate over police officer numbers in England and Wales, which have dropped by more than 20,000 since 2009. Mrs May came under fire after she suggested that police cuts were not to blame for a spate of fatal stabbings on teenagers, saying there "was no direct correlation between certain crimes and police numbers". But Mr Javid, writing in the Sun, contradicted this, saying: "More police on the beat means less crime on our streets. Not exactly rocket science is it?" He added: "I'd continue work to peel back layers of bureaucracy that have crept up over decades so police can concentrate on policing, not paperwork. "That means 20,000 more coppers. Not sat behind desks, but pounding the pavements. It's what the police want, it's what the public wants, and it's what I will deliver. "I want to see a return to bobbies on the beat in every corner of the country. In cities, towns, villages and the countryside, I want the public to feel the confidence that comes from seeing officers in their communities. "And I want to end the culture of impunity criminals increasingly feel as a result of lack of police presence." The Police Federation of England and Wales have previously raised concerns of "underfunding and under resourcing policing". Speaking in April following the publication of police-recorded crime figures by the Office of National Statistics, vice-chairman Che Donald said: "Crime across the board is going up, the only things that are not going up are police numbers, police pay and meaningful funding the Government should be investing in our police service so we can get on with tacking this highly concerning situation."

MAN JAILED FOR HIT AND RUN Hamza Ali Hussain accelerated in anger in the early hours of New Year's Day after his friends were involved in a "minor altercation" inside the TBC nightclub in Batley, West Yorkshire.

A 23-year-old man has been jailed for eight years after driving a car at high speed towards a group of people outside a nightclub and leaving a solider with "debilitating" injuries. Hamza Ali Hussain accelerated in anger in the early hours of New Year's Day after his friends were involved in a "minor altercation" inside the TBC nightclub in Batley, West Yorkshire. Joshua Adams-Mitchell hit the car windscreen and was hurled 20-30 yards before landing in the road, Leeds Crown Court heard. His Army career in doubt after suffering head, body and leg injuries. Leeds Crown Court heard , Hussain, of Middle Road, Westtown, Dewsbury, was not in the nightclub but became "enraged" when his friends told him about an incident during the evening,. His friends pointed out the person responsible for the altercation, he then accelerated towards the group containing his intended target, but Mr Adams-Mitchell was hit as he stepped backwards into the road. Hussain, fled the scene and was arrested the following day Jonathan Sharp, prosecuting, said the 22-year-old was thrown on to the windscreen, rolled over the top of the car and was then hurled 20-30 yards before landing in the road. His injuries included facial fractures, injuries to his knee, damage to his right eye, rib and lung injuries and PTSD. Mr Sharp said: "He is currently signed off as unable to work in a military role and his future career in the Army may be dependent on his recovery from PTSD and his knee injury, which require continued treatment."

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Eid Feature 16

After Ramdan is the celebration to end the fasting month is Eid al-Fitr. Eid is observed by 1.6 billon people across the world and marks one of the most important events in the Islamic calendar. Eid al- Fitr is an Arabic term which translates as the ‘feast of breaking the fast’. It is celebrated on the first day of the month of Shawwal, which follows Ramadan as the 10th month of the lunarbased Islamic calendar. It depends on the sighting of the moon, the date changes in the Gregorian

calendar from year to year. In 2019, Eid begins on Tuesday 4th June and ends on Wednesday 5th June. The celebrations will carry on for a few days, where families and friends get together to break the fast. People traditionally greet each other on the day with the phrase ‘Eid Mubarak’, which means ‘blessed celebration’. The aim of the celebration is to promote peace and bring yourself back to the normal course of life after the long month of self-restraint and religious devotion.

Muslims all over the world will begin Eid festivities with a prayer shortly after dawn, which can take place either in a Mosque or an outdoor prayer venue. Following prayer, it is traditional for Muslims to gather together in a park to celebrate breaking their fast together, with large scale- events of festival food (particularly sweet treats), prayer and stalls. New clothes will be brought for the occasion as well as presents and gifts for friends and family.

world and marks one of the most important events in the Islamic calendar. Eid al- Fitr is an Arabic term which translates as the ‘feast of breaking the fast’. EID 2019 It is celebrated on the first day of the month of Shawwal, which follows Ramadan as the 10th month of the lunarbased Islamic calendar.

It depends on the sighting of the moon, the date changes in the Gregorian calendar from year to year. In 2019, Eid begins on Tuesday 4th June and ends on Wednesday 5th June. The celebrations will carry on for a few days, where families and friends get together to break the fast. People traditionally greet each other on the day with the phrase ‘Eid Mubarak’, which means ‘blessed celebration’. The aim of the celebration is to promote peace and bring yourself back to the normal course of life after the long month of self-restraint and religious devotion. The day before Eid is called ‘Chaand Raat’ and is known as the eve of the festival Eid. It can also mean a night with a new moon for the new Islamic month shawwal. Entire families head out towards the local bazaars, markets and shopping malls. Women usually purchase items such as Shalwar Kameez, bangles, jewellery and bags while men mostly concentrate on shoes. Gifts and sweets are brought for friends while toys are brought for children. Barbar shops and beauty parlours are also heavily visited in the evening in preparation for the following day. Women and girls decorate their hands with mehndi. Decorative lights are put up in markets as well as government buildings, banks and mosques. Chaand Raat also gives a chance for people to meet with friends and extended family. Muslims all over the world will begin Eid festivities with a prayer shortly after dawn, which can take place either in a Mosque or an outdoor prayer venue.

History

The festival is a day when Muslims thank god, known as Allah in Arabic, for strength and blessings, hoping the commemoration of Ramadan has brought them closer to god. It was first celebrated by Muhammad in 624CE following a victory in battle. Eid is observed by 1.6 billon people across the

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JUNE 2019

Following prayer, it is traditional for Muslims to gather together in a park to celebrate breaking their fast together, with large scale- events of festival food (particularly sweet treats), prayer and stalls. They will then sit down with their family and friends for breakfast, their first daylight meal following a month of fasting. Traditionally, Eid al-Fitr is celebrated for three days and is a national holiday in Muslim countries. In the UK, Muslims tend to celebrate the festival for a day and may take time off work or school for the occasion. Another important tradition is Zakat al-Fitr – the act of giving charity to the poor at the end of Ramadan. In 2016, it was estimated that British Muslims gave on average £371 each to charity during Ramadan. New clothes will be brought for the occasion as well as presents and gifts for friends and family. Eid al-Fitr and Eid alAdha? Eid al-Adha takes place later on in the year, and is considered a holier observance than Eid al-Fitr. It takes place on the 10th day of the final month of the Islamic calendar, and involves Muslims from around the world travelling the Mecca for pilgrimage. This year, Eid al-Adha takes place from the evening of Sunday 11 August to Thursday 15 August. It is known as the "sacrifice feast", and honours the prophet Ibrahim's sacrifice of his son Ishmael, an act of

submission under the order of Allah. How to wish someone a happy Eid The phrase commonly

used by Muslims to wish someone a happy Eid is "Eid Mubarak", which translates to "Blessed Eid" in Arabic.

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NEWS

Mandeep Hayre THE WEST END BHANGRA MUSICAL AMAZING & ELECTRIFYING SHOW

Lifestyle Columnist Bio:- Mani Hayre loves reading writing and is currently an honorary Midlander moving here from the North of England. By day I'm the BDM for the Asian Business Chamber.

Mental Health and the South Asian Community

Every year there is a hashtag around mental health and for a few days everyone comes out in support of those who suffer with mental health issues, including those from the South Asian community, a dialogue that is much needed. The word ‘taboo’ also gets thrown around a lot when talking about this particular subject and as much as I hate the word taboo as it seems to be connected to any topic to do with being South Asian, mental health is still one within the community. How often have our parents are grandparents told us to ‘get over it’ or ‘it’ll pass’. There isn’t a word for ‘depression’ in Punjabi, so then how do you tackle this issue in your mother tongue and with family members when the closest word you have is ‘Udas’ which means sad? A lot of the time we’re told to make ourselves mentally strong and this does include our faith and religion. Our belief in something bigger than us to get through it, but what if that coping mechanism stops working? When talking to friends we also talk about the upbringing our own ancestors must have had, which gets passed down until we as a generation with all our access to the world and knowledge can talk more openly. But action also needs to be taken to stop it being such a stigma among the older generations. The effects of this carry through to other aspects of our lives, relationships with partners, friends, family, and co-workers. We’re so conditioned not to talk about it as it’s seen as a sign of weakness then how do you tell someone you need help if you can’t accept that within yourself? The conversation must continue long after the hashtag ends.

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Date: Saturday 1st of June Venue: The Alexandra Theatre Birmingham Birmingham’s Alexandra Theatre hosted the THE WEST END BHANGRA MUSICAL with performances by legendary bhangra singers Heera , Pardesi, Apna Sangeet, Shin DCS supported by the Legends Band. It had been a long time since Bhangra fans had witnessed bhangra in a theatre setting and the crowd eagerly awaited for what has been billed as a new bhangra show concept. The show concept was put together by 4 normal people one-night reflecting and reminiscing about UK Bhangra, it’s genre, where it was in the 80s and 90s and where it is now. Saturday night, Bhangra fans were treated to an extravaganza of pure live music, lighting and sound never done before for a bhangra show. The huge led screen was alive with visuals from Punjab, old bhangra videos and of course Soho road. Each artist performed for over 40mins of Live music with dancers accompanying them for their songs which ranged from fast paced bhangra dance tracks to romantic & traditional folk songs. The auditorium was filled with screams from the crowds singing along to their

favourite songs. The artists loved the audience reactions and responded by putting on amazing performance that got the audience both young & old dancing & clapping in their seats. At the end of the show the audience could be seen & heard thanking the promoters for the best bhangra experience they had witnessed for a long time . Next Show :Sunday 30th June 2019 at the Newcastle Theatre Royal

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What came first, Father’s Day or Mother’s Day? Father's Day Sunday 16th June 2019

Father’s Day and Mother’s Day is a day celebrated by individuals to thank their parents for being there for them and looking after them. All around the world Father’ day and Mother’s Day is celebrated on different days depending on what part of the world you are in. But which day actually came first?! The nations first ever Father’s Day was celebrated on 19th June 1910 and the first ever Mother’s Day was celebrated on 9th May 1914. This year Father’s Day in the UK is Celebrated on Sunday 16th June 2019. Father’s Day is a celebration honoring Fathers and celebrating fatherhood paternal bonds and the influence of Fathers in society. So, to celebrate your Father this Father’s Day let’s make them something special for dinner that would really make their day! With a special ‘Desi Roast Dinner’. Desi Roast Dinner Recipe. Ingredients For the marinade • 4 tbsp lemon juice • 2 tbsp peeled, finely chopped root ginger • 2 tbsp finely chopped or crushed garlic • 3 hot green chillies, finely chopped • ½ tsp salt

• 1 tsp ground coriander • 1 tsp garam masala For the chicken • 1.75kg (3lb 14oz) whole chicken, skin removed • ½ tsp chilli powder • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper For the roasted masala potatoes • 2 tbsp olive or sunflower oil • 5 medium potatoes, peeled, halved lengthways, and cut into 5x4cm/2x1½in chunks • ½ tsp of salt • ¾ tsp freshly ground black pepper • 1 tsp ground coriander • 1 tsp ground cumin • ½ tsp turmeric • 1 tsp Kashmiri (mild) chilli powder For the chilli garlic masala Vegetables • 2 tbsp olive oil • 1 Broccoli • 2 packs of asparagus • 2 packs of leeks • 4 pieces of garlic • 1 tsp garam masala • Half tsp chilli flakes

cumin, turmeric and chilli powder on to a plate and mix well. 14. Remove the potatoes from the oven. Using tongs, roll the potatoes in the spice mix, making sure all sides are covered. 15. Return them to the oven for a further 20 minutes, or until lightly browned and tender all the way through when pierced with a knife. 16. Whilst the chicken and potatoes are cooking, cut up 1. Preheat the oven to 200C/400F/Gas 6. 2. Place all the marinade ingredients into a blender and process to a paste. 3. Using a sharp knife, make two deep, diagonal cuts into each breast of the chicken, going all the way down to the bone. Make two equally deep slashes in the thighs and two in the drumsticks as well. 4. Place the chicken, breast side up, on a roasting tray lined with enough foil to cover the bird completely. 5. Pour the marinade paste over the chicken, rubbing it well into all the cuts. Set aside for 30 minutes. 6. Sprinkle the chilli powder and black pepper over the chicken evenly. Wrap up the chicken in the foil so it is completely covered, with the tightly closed seam at the top. 7. Bake in the middle of the hot oven for one hour. 8. Unwrap, without letting the juices run out, and cook, uncovered, for 15 minutes, basting two or three times with the juices. 9. Check the chicken is cooked by inserting a skewer into the thickest part of the thigh, between the leg and the body. If the juices run clear with no trace of pink, it is cooked. Continue to cook for a little longer if needed. 10. Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4. 11. Meanwhile, for the roasted masala potatoes, pour the oil into a large bowl. Add the potatoes and sprinkle in the salt and pepper. Ensure the potatoes are well coated, then transfer to a baking tray in a single layer. 12. Place in the middle of the oven and roast for 20 mins. 13. Spoon the coriander,

the broccoli and leeks. 17. Pour some oil into the pan and finely chop in the garlic, add garam masala, salt, chilli flakes, fry for 2 minutes 18. Then and in the broccoli, asparagus and leeks and fry off until cooked. 19. Set the chicken in a warm place to rest for 10-15 minutes, then carve and serve with the roasted masala potatoes and chilli garlic masala Vegetables.

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THE SONGS OF BOB DYLAN GOSPEL

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21st JULY 2019 2 SHOWS - 3PM & 7PM

THE BRAMALL - ELGAR CONCERT HALL UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM, EDGBASTON, BIRMINGHAM, B15 2TT TICKET PRICE: STANDARD - £18.00 CONCESSION - £15.00

TOWN HAL L GOSPEL CHOIR

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D O O W Y L L O B NO O T T I E D A M M FIL CANNES

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Bunty Aur Babli Again The 72nd Cannes Film Festival rolled out its red carpet in May and the event featured a 12-day festival in the French Riveria. During all the glitz and glamour stars got together from across the world celebrating artists and films. A total of 1845 feature films were submitted for the official selection this year, however no Indian film made it to the official selection of the festival for the first time in a decade and neither was there any Indian talent in any of the jury this year.

THE LATEST BOLLYWOOD ENTERTAINMENT NEWS

Since the festival began in 1946, Indian pictures have walked away with several major prizes and this year no film was showcased The festival had a host of Bollywood stars who graced the red carpet and this included Deepika Padukone, Kangana Ranaut, Aishwarya RaiBachchan, Sonam Kapoor,Ahuja,Huma Qureshi and Priyanka Chopra Jonas who attended with her husband Nick. Actress Huma Qureshi, 32-year-

RANVEER SINGH IS SET FOR 83 ian Birmingham Ind Film Festival Turn to Page 24

The Island of Love returns

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Heads Turn at Cannes 2019

This year’s Cannes Film Festival saw Bollywood’s actresses making heads turn at the red carpet. This year marks Priyanka Chopra’s début at the French Riviera, regulars Deepika Padukone and Kangana Ranaut vamped up their glamour on the red carpet. Representing the Swiss Luxury band, Chopard, Priyanka’s look in a shimmer y black gown is by far her best red carpet look for this year. Deepika Padukone sported a custom-made Dundas white ivory gown with a statement bow and a plunging neckline, along with reverse cat eye make-up. Pulling her hair in a genie ponytail, the actress’ long trail gown surely made heads turn. Queen’s actress Kangana Ranaut’s day one at Cannes was a mix of tradition and elegance in her saree ensemble. The actress looked gorgeous in a golden Kanjeevaram saree paired with strapless embellished gold peplum blouse and maroon gloves.

32nd Anniversary Of Mr India Dedicated to Late Veeru Devgan Anil Kapoor dedicates the movie Mr India that hit our screens 32 years ago to the late Bollywood action director Veeru Devgan. "'Mr. India' was made iconic by its children-friendly action scenes and Veeru's Midas touch. I want to dedicate its 32nd anniversary to the man who made these unforgettable moments possible," Anil tweeted. "Veeru Devgan was an amazing man and I'm lucky to have worked with him. He is sorely missed," he added. Veeru Devgan, the father of actor Ajay Devgn, who passes away on Monday 27 May.

TRADITION AND ELEGENCE REPRESENTED AT CANNES BY BOLLYWOOD ACTRESSES AT THE CANNES FILM FESTIVAL

Kim & Kanye Name Baby Number 4 Reality star Kim Kardashian and Rapper Kanye West welcome baby number four (via surrogate). Kim announced the name of their fourth baby via Instagram along with a photo on May 17 and their son’s official name is Psalm West! Kim and Kanye have three children North, 5, and Chicago, 1, and son, Saint West, 3. It was reported that the surrogate went into labour and baby was born weighing six pounds and nine ounces and arrived on May 9. News of the labour broke during a recording of US chat show Ellen. The reality star tweeted "He's here and he's perfect". The name Psalm is of Hebrew origin and means song. Kim broke the news of the pregnancy in January. Kim has given birth to daughter North and son Saint. The couples third child Chicago was also born via a surrogate in January last year.

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Bunty Aur Babli Again Reunited

THE BY: ASIAN TODAY HUSNA

BY: HUSNA

BOLLYWOOD BOLLYWOOD

Sequels are always a flavour in Bollywood and joining the line is Amitabh, Abhishek Bachchan and Rani Mukerji. The trio are reuniting for a sequel to their 2005 release, Bunty aur Babli. The film will be titled Bunty aur Babli Again and the shoot is scheduled to begin in June. A sequel to the crime comedy.

Ranveer Singh Is THE FUTURE OF MEN IN BLACK Set for 83 Ranveer Singh is all set for the shoot of his new movie. The actor will play Kapil Dev, who led the Indian cricket team to its first historic World Cup win. It is perfect timing as the world gets ready for the 2019 World Cup on May 30. The first shooting is schedule will begin in Glasgow, Scotland.

Marvel Actor Chris Hemsworth new role stars in ‘Men in Black International’ and says he doesn't dismiss the idea of getting stars Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones back to the "Men In Black" (MIB) universe. Asked about getting the original cast and new agents together for a movie, Hemsworth said: "In

my mind, the characters can meet at some point of time and cross paths if we are lucky enough to make another one." 'Who knows? We may team up in future. Those characters are still in this world. It is not a remake of sorts. There is a larger story. We watch this space and see if they meet.

Tarantino's Awaited Movie Quentin Tarantino returned to the French Riviera with for his much-anticipated film Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. A 60s-set drama starring Leonardo DiCaprio as a floundering western star and Brad Pitt as his long-suffering stuntman. Tarantino’s 10th and reportedly possibly his final film before retirement is unquestionably the hot ticket at this year’s festival. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood will be released in US cinemas on 26 July, with a UK release following on 14 August.

01. 01. 02. 02. 03. 03. 04. 04. 05. 05. 06. 06. 07. 07. 08. 08. 09. 09. 10. 10.

Kala Chashma Duniya (Luki Chuppi) KalaBaar Baar Dekho Akhil &Chashma Dhvani Bhanushali Baar Baar Dekho

The Hook Tere Sang Up Yaare Song Tere Sang Yaare Rustom Vishal & Shekhar & Neha Kakkar Rustom

First Class Gani Gani ManiSingh Arjit Sandhu & Neeti & Akhil Mohan Mani Sandhu & Akhil

Morni Jag Ghoomeya Banke Jag Ghoomeya Sultan Guru Randhawa & Neha Kakkar Sultan

Hauli Hauli Tu Rendhe Garry Sandhu & Neha Kakkar Tu Rendhe Tindy & Rixx and Sudesh Kumari Tindy & Rixx and Sudesh Kumari

Tere Bin Woman Woman Rahat FatehftAli Khan Shide Boss Zack Knight Shide Boss ft Zack Knight

The Jawaani Peat Pe BootySong Peat Pe Booty A Vishal Flying Dadlani Jatt & Payal Dev A Flying Jatt

First Class Suit SuitSingh Guru Arjit Randhawa & Neeti Mohan Guru Randhawa

Ghar Tu HaiMore Pardesiya Tu Hai Goshal Mohenjo Shreya Daro Mohenjo Daro

Chashni Dishoom Dishoom Vishal & Shekhar Sau Tarah Ke Sau Tarah Ke

BHANGRA/POP BHANGRA BHANGRA

01. 01. 02. 02. 03. 03. 04. 04. 05. 05. 06. 06. 07. 07. 08. 08. 09. 09. 10. 10.

Kai Saal Gabbroo Gabbroo Jassie Jaz Dhami Gill ft. Preet Hundal Jassie Gill ft. Preet Hundal

Mattha Mattha Akhil Akhil Teri Kami Jenny Johal Teri Kami

Taur Di Tru-Skool AshokJatt Prince, Kaur Ashok Time B4 YaPrince, Mind Tru-Skool Time 4 Ya Mind

Wang PBN &Da RajNaap Bains Ammy PBNAkh &Virk Raj Bains Billi Billi Akh

Mukar Sandhu Manni Gyi Manni Sandhu Welcome Gurj Sidhu To The Future Welcome To The Future

SajnaBina Tere De Naal TereSaggu Bina Monty Bups & Waris, Ginni Kapoor Monty & Waris, Ginni Kapoor

Take Oﬀ Skoda Skoda Ranjit Gary Sandhu Bawa ft. Bhinda Aujla Ranjit Bawa ft. Bhinda Aujla

TeriVaari Ikk MarziHor Ae Soch Lae Ikk Vaari Hor Soch Lae Harish Prabh Gill Verma Harish Verma

Viah Kulwinder Billa Kulwinder Billa Kulwinder Jass ManakBilla Kulwinder Billa

Ditche Boliyan Selﬁ SelﬁeBawa Boliyan Malkit Ranjit Singh ft. Dj Vix Malkit Singh ft. Dj Vix

UK UKARTISTS CHART UK ARTISTS

AKSHAT SINGH GETS THE GOLDEN BUZZER India’s young sensation, Akshat Singh, is among the semi-finalists on Britain’s Got Talent. Akshat’s favourite judge, Simon Cowell, is already rooting for this young Mumbai dancer. After getting a standing ovation from the judges for his performance, Akshat 13-yearsold got the golden buzzer.

The judges said my performance was superb. David Walliams was very happy. Simon Cowell said, “I have seen a lot of performances but this was the best.” They gave me the golden buzzer. I just started crying because I did not expect it at all.

01. 02. 03. 04. 05. 06. 07. 08. 09. 10.

I Don;t One Dance Care One Dance Drake Ed Sheeran feat&Wizkid Juston and Bieber Kyla Drake feat Wizkid and Kyla

Old ColdTown WaterRoad Lil NasWater X Cold Major Lazer and Justin Beiber Major Lazer and Justin Beiber

Someone Too Good You Loved Too Good Drake Lewis Capaldi feat Rihanna Drake feat Rihanna

VossiisBop This what you came for This isHarris what you came for Calvin Stormzy feat Rihanna Calvin Harris feat Rihanna

Hold Me Heathens Lewis Capaldi Heathens Twenty One Pilots Twenty One Pilots

Closer Bad Guy Closer Chainsmokers feat Halsey Billie Eilish Chainsmokers feat Halsey

Piece ofStrangers Your Heart Perfect Meduza Perfect Jonas BlueStrangers feat JP Cooper Jonas Blue feat JP Cooper

Tears(ft. Aloe Bacc) SOS Tears Clean Bandit feat Louisa Johnson Avicii Clean Bandit feat Louisa Johnson

This GraceGirl This Kungs Vs Cooking on 3 Burners Lewis Girl Capaldi Kungs Vs Cooking on 3 Burners

WeI Can't Don'tHave Talk Anymore If You We Don't Anymore Charlie PuthTalk feat Selena Gomez Shawn Mendez Charlie Puth feat Selena Gomez

JUNE 2019

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CARY SAWHNEY Executive & Programming Director

ANTONIO AKEEL

Festival Ambassador

SUNNY & SHAY GREWAL Festival Ambassadors

DHARMESH RAJPUT

Head of Cinema, Birmingham

BIFF IN NUMBERS BIFF’s 5th year anniversary promises 17 events, made up of 16 screenings, including at least 10 shorts (and counting!), 2 documentaries, 12 languages across 5 venues, and one love for independent South Asian cinema!

JOIN US ONLINE

/BIRMINGHAM INDIANFILMFESTIVAL

@WELOVEBIFF @WELOVEBIFF

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Birmingham India

Movies Pack a Punch that

T Carp

21 JuneJuly - 01

Birmingham Indian Film Festival marks its 5th anniversary in the city this year, showcasing a rich assortment of entertaining and thought-provoking independent films that have been winning awards and making global impact,

including India’s new wave of LGBTQ+ films. The festival will run across the city for a phenomenal 11 days at Cineworld Broad Street; MAC Birmingham, Cannon Hill Park; and The Mockingbird Cinema and Kitchen, Custard Factory – and this year the festival welcomes new venues Centrala based in Digbeth and the Medicine Bakery & Gallery in New Street. Cary Rajinder Sawhney, Executive & Programming Director of the festival said: “The Festival has dynamically opened the UK media and audiences to Indian and South Asian independent cinema in all its linguistic diversity, and that’s something we are extremely proud of. Punching above our weight as always, this year is probably our

strongest programme ever with exciting Midland premieres and some seriously cutting-edge dramas and documentaries.” The 5th Anniversary celebrations will open on Friday 21st June with a sparkling red-carpet event at Cineworld Broad Street, for the Midlands Premiere of hard-hitting Article 15, starring India’s hottest male star Ayushmann Khurrana, ahead of its UK and worldwide release later in the month. The Festival is particularly delighted to welcome Anurag Kashyap, in a rare chance to hear the experiences of India’s most famed cult director. A unique talent and India’s best-known filmmaker on the global festival circuit. His Netflix series Sacred Games was a global smash hit and is set for season 2. Cary continued ““We are very proud that the Festival is in its 5th year and building a new cinema audience in Birmingham. Over 70% of those surveyed during the 2018 festival were new visitors to Cineworld, MAC Birmingham and The Mockingbird cinemas combined.” The festival was originally set up in London in order to showcase great new films coming out of the

Indian subcontinent, that might otherwise not be platformed in the UK at all. Marking 10 years in London and 5 years in Birmingham, Cary continues to expand Europe’s largest South Asian Film Festival into Manchester, Stockport and Halifax this year. To help celebrate its 5th anniversary the Festival welcomes Midlands born actor Antonio Aakeel best known for his roles in City of Tiny Lights and the hit film Tomb Raider. Antonio added “I was fortunate enough to be part of the festival last year with my film Eaten by Lions which won the audience award for Best Film and I am honoured to be returning to the Festival team this year as an ambassador. It’s an important time to showcase the varied and diverse stories that South Asian independent cinema has to offer and is a great platform for both emerging and established talent. I’m hoping my involvement will only increase the incredible engagement the festival receives from film makers and film lovers alike.” Antonio joins BBC Radio WM’s popular afternoon presenters Sunny and Shay who have been ambassadors for the overall festival in London and Birmingham for the last 8 years.

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an Film Festival turns 5! WIN

TICKETS TO THE RED ARPET OPENING NIGHT!

Sign up to our newsletter at www.birminghamindianfilmfestival.co.uk by 15 June to be in with a chance to win TWO tickets to the VIP reception and Red pet Opening Night of Article 15 at Cineworld Broad Street on Friday 21 June! Winners will be chosen at random and Top: Rameet Kaur, Deana Uppal, Shay Grewal & Bambi Bains. Bottom: awarding winning director, Rima Das poses with Birmingham School of Media volunteers. notified by email. Middle:Ameet Channa with female dhol band, Eternal Taal. Right: Gulshan Grover arrives at Birmingham New Street Station

Professor Rajinder Dudrah, Indian cinema expert and Professor of Cultural Studies and Creative Industries at Birmingham City University’s School of Media, said: “Birmingham City University is delighted to once again be a headline sponsor of such an important and inspiring event as it marks its 5th year in the city. Birmingham Indian Film Festival is a real celebration of the vibrancy of independent cinema, heritage and culture of South Asia. As a city with such strong links with India, Birmingham is the perfect place for the Festival to be held and we are proud that the University will be involved.” Head of Cinema, Dharmesh Rajput says that he’s delighted that audiences have continue to support the festival and helped us to mark 5 years – “we’re really thankful to all our sponsors, partners and supporters including Birmingham City University and Asian Business Chamber of Commerce who share our passion for Asian arts and culture. We also thank the BFI, awarding National Lottery funding, for their ongoing support, plus our many other supporters. This year we are excited to be working with Malmaison Birmingham as our new hotel partner.”

Photo credit @Nikharkorpal

Left to right: Trish Adudu with Satinder Sartaj (The Black Prince, 2017); Sunny Grewal, Ajay Devgn, Leena Yadav, Shay Grewal (Parched, 2015); Richa Chaddha (Love Sonia, 2018)

FESTIVAL CALENDAR FRI 21 JUNE

SUN 23 JUNE

Opening Night ARTICLE 15

VIVEK

(RED CARPET FROM 18:30)

ARISHADVARGA

(REASON)

19:00 | CINEWORLD BROAD STREET

16:30 | MAC BIRMINGHAM 19:00 | CINEWORLD BROAD STREET

SAT 22 JUNE

SATYAJIT RAY SHORT FILM AWARD 14:00 | THE MOCKINGBIRD

UROJAHAJ (THE FLIGHT)

16:30 | MAC BIRMINGHAM

WIDOW OF SILENCE

18:00 | CINEWORLD BROAD STREET

MON 24 JUNE

SIR

WED 26 JUNE

ANURAG KASHYAP SCREEN TALK 19:00 | THE MOCKINGBIRD

MY HOME INDIA 18:30 | CENTRALA

KATTUMARAM (CATAMARAN)

13:30 | MAC BIRMINGHAM

CHUSKIT THU 27 JUNE

BULBUL CAN SING 18:00 | MAC BIRMINGHAM

18:30 | MAC BIRMINGHAM

TUE 25 JUNE

SAT 29 JUNE

16:00 | THE MOCKINGBIRD

ARDAAS KARAAN

19:00 | CINEWORLD BROAD STREET

SUN 30 JUNE FRI 28 JUNE

SATURDAY AFTERNOON 18:15 | MAC BIRMINGHAM

#GADHVI

20:30 | MAC BIRMINGHAM Booking details at www.birminghamindianfilmfestival.co.uk

TOO DESI TOO QUEER 19:00 | MEDICINE BAKERY & GALLERY

MON 1 JULY

Closing Night PHOTOGRAPH

19:00 | MAC BIRMINGHAM

JUNE 2019

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THE ASIAN TODAY

YOUR L SKIN CARE ROUTINES THAT WILL PUT A GLOW ON YOUR FACE THIS SUMMER!

Our very own Graphic Designer and on the side Journalist - Anil Singh Gill brings his Food Reviews to The Asian Today, bringing all the news from hot restaurants to cool bars and everything in between. www.theasiantoday.com

Sizzling Feast in

Rowley Regis

Summer skin care tips: Whatever your skin type is that be oil, dry, patchy these routine skincare tips and hacks are all you need to incorporate in your daily lifestyle to keep your skin glowing.

A great mixed grill is sometimes difficult to find in some parts of the Black Country but at The Fourways pub and grill you may be in for a treat. Located in Rowley Regis on Portway Hill just a stone’s throw off the Wolverhampton Road, this Desi Bar serve some mouth-watering grills and delicious curries. More of a family friendly pub it’s a great for a meal or catching up with friends over one of their sizzling grills. The screens inside the pub show how they cook their food with animations on screen of their menu. As it is a traditional pub setting there are a range of drinks on tap and a variety of spirits behind the bar. I would definitely recommend for starters, their Fish Pakoras and also their Lamb Chops as they were cooked to perfection. For mains the Butter Chicken and Lamb Curry hit the spot with a garlic and coriander Naan cooked fresh in their Tandoor and some Pilau Rice to accompany. When you order you will receive a buzzer that will notify you when your food is ready and collection from the grill order area of the pub, average wait between 20 – 30 minutes but worth the wait after a few beverages. Overall this is a great pub that also do takeaway and are reasonably priced, so if you like a good mixed grill its definitely worth a visit. The Fourways - Portway Hill, Rowley Regis B65 9DD

Get more food news on twitter @theasiantoday and on the web : www.theasiantoday.com

Exfoliate It is very important to get rid of dead skin cells that damage the texture of your skin and give you an uneven, flaky and pigmented skin tone. You can use some natural home remedies easily available in your kitchen-like coffee, baking soda, etc- to give your face a good scrub. If not, there are several good scrubs available from high street shops which are good exfoliators for the skin.

Hydration Hydration is key when it comes to good glowing summer skin. Not only does it rid your body of toxins and other harmful substances, but

also helps your skin look hydrated and fresh. You should aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day to keep hydrated and keep that skin glowing.

Natural toners

Prepare a bowl of rose water and keep it in the refrigerator. Whenever you come home from outside, wipe your face with a cotton ball soaked in rose water. It

Diet Finally ensure that your diet is balanced, as it reflects what your skin looks like. Always fill your plate with a generous serving of seasonal fruits and vegetables. Drink lots of juices, shakes and water to reduce the temperature and keep your body hydrated.

will take off dirt from deep within your pores and act as a natural toner. Most importantly, it will help in making your skin feel fresh and clean.

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LIFESTYLE

IFESTYLE

EID fashion Nisha Sahdev tips for girls A Journalist, Celebrity Publicist and now a mother, I have spent the past decade working celebrities, singers, actors from India and Pakistan. I have been honoured to work with a range of names from Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Snoop Dogg, Satinder Sartaaj, Ammy Virk, Jimmy Sheregill and many more. Travelling, blogging and working for the BBC have been the forefront of her career until she switched hats to mommy mode and had a baby girl eleven months back.

Travelling With Baby

With Ramadan well underway, the next thing everyone’s minds is their EID outfits! Here are some fashion tips that will have you looking more voguish and stylish than ever before. In recent years, short frocks or peplum with sharara has been the main focus of renowned fashion brands in Pakistan. How would you rate ‘short frocks’ fashion for upcoming Eid 2019? As long frocks are out of fashion how about you play it safe with medium length shirt designs with fringe stitching style for Eid 2019. You can wear a knee-length shirt that has a touch of fridge either with a cigarette or straight trousers and you may carry dupatta that will make you look ravishing. It’s always essential to dress for your body shape too, so ensure that your outfit will suit your body type.

Do you know which trousers style is trendy this season? Well, there is going to be straight or cigarette pants all around. This trouser style has been in vouge for a while now, not only in Pakistan but also in other Asian countries. For more alluring beauty and charm, you may add embellishments such as tassels, laces and pearls or make it even more stylish by featuring bows at the end. Do you want to wear a dupatta on the head? That sounds cool, right? But what if they have to carry it in a different style than usual one. Like placing the dupatta on one shoulder or draping the dupatta across both shoulders. A hairstyle is as important as our Eid outfit is! Make sure to get a perfect and trendy hairstyle this Eid. What hairstyle is in fashion now? Well a side fishtail braid looks ravishing when nicely incorporated with some elegant

pearls and stones. You could also add ribbons to your braid for that extra touch. Another in hairstyle is big bouncy Hollywood curls which would had that extra vouge factor to your Eid outfit. Finally, don’t forget to accessories with wrist watches, jewellery pieces, handbags and shoes which will finish the overall look. Make sure to keep all accessorizes simple and minimal as this year’s trends are subtle but elegant!

Get more from Nisha on twitter @theasiantoday and on the web : www.theasiantoday.com

After having a baby I wondered how my travelling passion will be fulfilled. 11 months on I have been on two amazing destinations with my family and it’s been two very different experiences. Travelling to Turkey with a 5 month old we stayed at the 5 star resort, Spice Hotel in Antalya, Belek, which was luxurious, baby friendly and I got introduced to baby buffets for the first time. I can’t explain how important it is now to find a resort which caters for babies with sterilising equipment’s and baby jars. Who would have thought right!? Travelling with a baby is almost a breeze when you have small baby equipment to hand and enough space in your room to fit a cot and a pram. Princess Andrianna, Rhodes invited us for a luxurious week in their family room with a private pool and spa. The holiday flew by letting us enjoy ourselves in our own room and take a dip in the pool to our hearts content. Taking a baby abroad is not daunting but the stress of packing for a mini island is just as stressful. My top tips for travelling with baby, pack toys, dummy for the plan journey, 4 hours in a plan can get boring for adults and babies. I always plan me feeds so Jasmin can have a feed just as we have boarded the flight, it usually fills her up and puts her to sleep as we take off. I am blessed that baby loves to fly and doesn’t cry on take off or landing. Pack wisely, sleepsuits, comfy attire; babies can only be cute for an hour before they need to be warm and comfy. Enjoy and Make Memories! TIPS · Make sure you pack babies favourite food pouches in case they don’t enjoy and food at the resort. · Take a bottle brush and washing up liquid · Take a dummy for the plane journey. · Pack cold water sterilising tablets · Pack extra baby wipes (They come in handy to remove make up to) · Take some time out to enjoy the holiday too!

JUNE 2019

BUSINESS

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BUSINESS

Owner of CoFresh Investing in A Uber-Style Breakdown App New Factory and Warehouse Launched

The management of the famous Asian snack maker Cofresh is investing £20 million in a new factory and warehouse following years of significant growth and expansion. A new site in Nuneaton has been bought, to complement its existing factory in Menzies Road, off Abbey Lane, Leicester. The Menzies Road site will continue to specialise in traditional Indian snacks while the new facility, will be dedicated to the manufacture of the Eat Real healthier brand,

which already makes up a substantial part of the business. Managing director Priyesh Patel said: “We’re delighted to be taking this hugely significant step in the development of our business. “Nuneaton’s central location is well-placed for our customer base and offers a great infrastructure and easy access from our primary location in nearby Leicester, while the site itself is perfect for our immediate needs and offers great potential for our ambitious business growth.” Nuneaton MP Marcus

Jones, members of the Cofresh senior management team and financial advisers from HSBC Bank and accountants Haines Watts visited the new factory to mark the acquisition of the site. Mr Jones said: “I’m delighted to welcome this long-standing family business to Nuneaton. “Cofresh and its Eat Real brand are expanding rapidly and I very much welcome this significant investment and creation of new jobs on a site which has been vacant for some

time.” Cofresh Snack Foods was established in 1974 and now claims to be the UK’s number one Indian snack brand. Eat Real was launched in 2015 in response to growing demand for ‘free from’ and vegan snacks, and includes hummus, lentil and quinoa chips, quinoa puffs and veggie straws. The Patels spent their savings on a fish and chip shop in Leicester and used the fryers – often in the middle of the night – to make Indian snacks.

Chamber welcomes new committee member

A Nottingham entrepreneur has launched a mobile app which helps motorists find and track breakdown assistance without paying for a membership. The app ResQ allows users to select a number of roadside services including recovery, wrong fuel assistance, fuel delivery and mobile mechanics. Businessman Shaz Rahman, from Nottingham, is the brainchild of this idea who says the app detects your location and then individual organisations can provide the user with quotes. The user then picks a quote and can track the agent. Mr Rahman, who also owns Performance Detail Centre, a vehicle valeting and detailing service, said: "People like to use things like Uber so I thought we could use that idea for on-demand breakdown assistance. "I researched it for about a year and a half and found there is no app like it on the market. It

was quite a lot of work getting agents signed up because it is a brand new concept. "With this app you can track your assistance as well, exactly like Uber, so you don't have to worry about calling them all the time to find out where they are. I took into consideration a lot of what people wanted from this service." Mr Rahman was inspired to launch the pay as you go-style app after his own car broke down in 2017 and having breakdown cover, he still had to wait four or five hours for assistance. Mr Rahman added: "My platform is built around reliability and speed. A lot of people don't want to pay for a membership so why shouldn't there be pay as you go breakdown cover? "The first thing you do when you breakdown is stress - this is a stress-free way of getting assistance. It's fast, efficient and reliable breakdown cover."

Our very own Business Columnist - Naeem Arif of NA Consulting is a new member of the Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce - Well done Naeem - From all the Team Here at The Asian Today

Naeem Arif has been appointed to the Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce’s executive committee. A long-standing Chamber member, Mr Arif is the head of consultancy firm NAC Consulting, a director at United Carpets and vicechair of the Midlands Retail Forum. The father-of-four has also written five books, including his latest release ‘Customer First’, which looks at how

businesses convert and retain customers through good customer service. Having grown up in Sutton Coldfield, Mr Arif attended Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School and also represented the Royal Town’s hockey and cricket clubs – becoming chairman of the latter in 2008. Mr Arif said: “I have been a member of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce for a number of years now.

“In joining the Sutton Coldfield Chamber’s executive committee, I will look to make use of my local knowledge in a community that I grew up in.” Mr Arif’s appointment to the committee was ratified at the Chamber’s annual general meeting, which took place at Aston Wood Golf Club. Former president Nigel Waldron’s term as honorary chairman was also confirmed for a second year.

Pictured: Sutton Chamber president Katie Hale with Naeem Arif

PROPERTY

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PROPERTY Five Ways Birmingham underpass closure

HOME OWNERS CAN EXTEND THEIR HOMES WITHOUT PLANNING APPLICATION A change in the law will allow home owners across England to extend their properties without the need for a full planning application. Families can put a singlestorey rear extension on their property of up to six metres for terraced or semidetached homes - or eight metres for detached homes. And now, under the rules, home owners can act with little hassle. More than 110,000 extensions have been completed since 2014 under the rules which were previously temporary. The changes could make it easier for some people, such as those with growing families, to improve their existing home rather than move. In addition, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said restrictive planning rules

have also been axed, to help business owners respond quickly to changing trends on the high street. Shops will now be able to change to office space without the need for a full planning application. Housing Minister Kit Malthouse said: "These measures will help families extend their properties without battling through time-consuming red tape. "By making this permitted development right permanent, it will mean families can grow without

being forced to move." Housing Minister Kit Malthouse said: "These measures will help families extend their properties without battling through time-consuming red tape. "By making this permitted development right permanent, it will mean families can grow without being forced to move." He added: "This is part of a package of reforms to build more, better, faster and make the housing market work and sits alongside our drive to deliver 300,000 homes a year by the mid 2020s."

Five Ways underpass will close to all traffic from Monday 3rd June 2019 to allow for construction of the next phase of the Birmingham Westside Metro extension, that will run from the city through Broad Street and into Edgbaston. When complete, will transform public transport access between the city centre and Edgbaston. The underpass will remain closed until 2021. During construction, Five Ways roundabout, which runs above the underpass, will remain open in all directions to deliver access in and out of Birmingham city centre. Pedestrian and cyclist access

through Five Ways subway will be open as usual. Later this summer there will be some additional changes to road traffic access to Broad Street and changes to some bus routes including route and stop changes. Key travel advice you will still be able to get to where you need to go during the closure, but consider the following advice: Plan ahead and leave more time for your journey: If you travel along Hagley Road, you’ll need more time for your journey to take account of the closure at Five Ways underpass. Use public transport wherever possible: This is to reduce

congestion on key roads in and out of the city centre. Travel off peak: Roads will be quieter if you are able to travel off peak. The busiest time to travel during weekdays is usually before 09.30 and after 15.30. Think about your options: Five Ways roundabout remains open, as does the pedestrian and cyclist subway, but both will be busier than normal so consider using Google Maps or a GPS to plan an alternative route. Consider car sharing: Sharing your journey with friends, family or colleagues will reduce the amount of cars on the road.

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MOTORING

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MOTORING

IN THE FAST LANE WITH THE ASIAN TODAY

R U P S G N I Y L F Y E BENTL EAL LOOKING TO SELL YOUR NUMBER PLATE? LOOK NO FURTHER! CALL 0121 314 2892 FOR GREAT AD RATES!

V E R R E M M U S ’S IT E BAITED AGAIN BEFOR says this won’t on the all the time, which means you can still get the back-end sliding. This is Bentley though, so the release says the car will be capable of ‘classic sports sedan handling characteristics.’ The new car will also have Bentley Dynamic Ride, which is Crewe-code for an adaptive suspension. You can safely expect V8 and W12 power, all-wheel drive and the very best in interior quality and craftsmanship. In time, a plug-in hybrid V6 will be offered, too.

Bentley has teased the new Flying Spur again the four-door version of the Continental GT that fits above the coupe, but south of the extravagant Mulsanne. Bentley has revealed some interesting facts about the car, and states the new Flying Spur is the first car from Crewe to get rear-wheel steer – tech that has already seen lots of in the VW Group. The new car will also get All-wheel-drive, though Bentley

All that Pym’s Lane is saying for now is this: 'The world’s leading luxury automotive company is innovating beyond the existing boundaries of performance, refinement and luxury with the introduction of an all-new four-door Grand Tourer. Full details of the new Flying Spur will be released

later this year.' The Pop-up Bentley mascot One detail that has been shown in more detail is a pop-up Bentley badge that rises from the bonnet at start-up. It's quite an intricate detail, especially the expensive-looking crystal glass in the flying B's wings. More details to be revealed.

tuned suspension and heavier steering at higher speeds, the Wraith has 'the most powerful, involving driving experience of any Rolls-Royce in history'.

The Wraith comes with Satellite Aided Transmission (SAT) technology. That means that the eight-speed ZF auto gearbox is linked to the sat-nav system, and based on the GPS position, driving style, and road layout, it selects the most appropriate gear. Some other features include Rolls-Royce's Starlight Headliner, which was previously only available in the Phantom. That means 1340 lights are integrated into the roof lining.

Rolls-Royce unwraps

Wraith Eagle VIII editions

The eagle has landed in terms of the new Rolls-Royce, which will reveal another special edition of the Wraith at this weekend's Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este at Lake Como. Limited to only 50 cars, the Wraith Eagle VIII marks 100 years since first non-stop transatlantic flight that was completed in June 1919, by Captain John Alcock and Lieutenant Arthur Brown. The aircraft was powered by a twin 20.3-litre Rolls-Royce Eagle VIII engine – hence the name of the limited-edition model. 'Wraith Eagle VIII is at once an object of desire; an homage to heroes and a protagonist to today's visionaries. This RollsRoyce Collection demonstrates the extraordinary skill of our Bespoke Collective at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, West

Sussex' said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Rolls-Royce CEO. The Wraith Eagle VIII's bespoke exterior is finished in Gunmetal with a Selby Grey upper two-tone, separated by a brass feature line, which apparently represents the night time adventure of Alcock and Brown. As a reference to the RollsRoyce Eagle VIII engine found in the Vickers Vimy aircraft, the grille vanes are painted in black. Inside, the seats are finished in Selby Grey and black leather accented by brass. The speaker covers are finished in brass and 'depict the estimated flight distance of 1,880 miles,' we're told. Look at the driver's door and you'll find a brass plaque with a quote praising the pair's outstanding achievements. The dash has the usual extreme craftsmanship, It's finished in

Smoked Eucalyptus wood that is vacuum metalized in gold and inlaid with silver and copper. The clock is made-up of an iced background effect which glows a faint green at night time. This is a signal to the green illumination that would appear on the pioneers' instrument panels. Landing location coordinates are engraved on the clock as well. The starlight headliner found in a standard Rolls-Royce also been fine-tuned for the Eagle VIII. So, 1183 starlight fibres were crafted to show the celestial arrangement at the time of the flight in 1919. The headliner also features a plaque reading the half-way point of the duo's journey. The Wraith Eagle VIII is not the only special-edition Wraith, previous ones developed include the 'Inspired by British Music' edition, 'Inspired by Film' edition, and a one-off Rugby edition. The Wraith is a super-coupe that was launched at the 2013 Geneva International Motor Show and was claimed to be the most powerful

model that Rolls-Royce has ever built. The Wraith is based on the Ghost and uses the same twinturbo 6.6-litre V12 engine. But instead of the Ghost's 563bhp there's a whopping 624bhp. And instead of 575lb ft there's now 590 lb ft of torque. This allows the Wraith to go from 0-62mph in 4.6 seconds, three-tenths quicker than the Ghost saloon. The Wraith has a shorter wheelbase, a wider rear track, and the roofline is lower too, which helps keep a low centre of gravity. Rolls-Royce claims that together with a specifically

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SPORT

Sport

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New Orange Jerseys for the India cricket team

In this year’s ICC World Cup 2019, the Indian team will be rocking a new orange jersey which has been inspired by the Indian football team kit. Virat Kohli-led Team India will be seen wearing orange jersey in two games of the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup hosted by England and Wales. As per the media reports, the BCCI marketing team is brushing up the final design and the jersey unveiling will be done very soon. Also, the new orange jersey of the Men in Blue is inspired from the Indian football team kit.

The Indian footballers so off the new orange kit during their away matches and now similar concept will be used in the ongoing cricket World Cup. International Cricket Council (ICC) had announced that all participating nations will be required to provide two kit jerseys of different colours. Barring host England, who enjoy a preference in choice of kit colour, all nine teams will be apprised about the kit colour they will wear in their respective away games. “For televised ICC events all participating teams will

be required to provide for two different coloured kits, except for the host country who has a preference in the choice of colour and may, if it chooses to do so, provide only one coloured kit to be worn in all matches throughout the event. In advance of the event the teams will be notified which coloured kit will be worn in each match,” the ICC had said in a release. While England have the privilege to wear the blue jersey throughout the tournament, India would have to sport the orange jersey against Eoin

Morgan’s side on June 30 at Edgbaston. Kohli and his men can also be seen in similar colour against Afghanistan. Team India have been famously known for donning the blue jersey across all white-ball formats of the game. In the 12th edition of the cricket’s biggest extravaganza, however, they will ditch the blue shade with orange in away games. “The BCCI marketing team is still working on the design and the jersey will be unveiled very soon,” a BCCI source said.

Punjab United from Gravesend, Kent, was formed in 2003, like most clubs they started up as a grassroots team playing amateur Sunday league football. Although the club is run & managed by British Sikhs, Punjab United is a community club welcoming and encouraging players from all backgrounds. The club has now

grown significantly since it’s formation, adding Junior, Youth and Adults teams to their structure with the aim to grow and promote players from within. They are semi-professional football team competing in a Step 4 national league system. They are the first team in the Gravesham borough to achieve this status.

After a successful couple of years with back to back promotions and cup victories, they find themselves in the Southern Counties East league. The BBC “Our Lives” documentary series was filmed during the 2018/19 season. It follows the teams inaugural journey in the Southern Counties East league.

For the first time ever the team are facing a relegation battle, and the stresses are starting to show. But will the bonds made in times of triumph hold strong when their backs are against the wall? This is fascinating behind the scenes documentary capturing the highs and lows of a campaign could ultimately end up as a disappointment, or as a fantastic achievement.

BBC1 DOCUMENTARY - PUNJAB UNITED MORE NEWS ONLINE AT

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Aston Villa in the Premier League

Aston Villa grab themselves a spot in the premier league after beating Derby at Wembley in the play off finals. They won 2-1 with goals from Anwar el Ghazi and John McGinn. Aston Villa are back in the big-time league with the £170m in their pockets and free from the demons that have tormented them since they lost the play-offs last year. Prince William and John Carew hugged one another in the stands while Jack Grealish and his teammates celebrated wildly in front of the Villa fans,

but the biggest and proudest smile belonged to the humble, down-toearth man who has masterminded their return to the Premier League. Dean Smith, who grew up supporting Villa, was living the dream as he held the trophy at the end of a long and emotional afternoon at Wembley. Appointed manager in October, and at a time when Villa were drifting along in mid-table, Smith presided over the club-record run of 10 successive league victories across March and April that propelled them into the play-offs. Now the 48-year-old has completed the job.

SPORT

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JUNE 2019

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LIVERPOOL WIN THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

iverpool win the Champions League after finishing second in the premier league with just 1 points difference to man City. This is the sixth Champions league win for the club and has been the cherry on the top to the end of the football season. Liverpool paraded the Champions League trophy

through the streets of the city today after beating Tottenham in Madrid last night. Mohamed Salah and Divock Origi scored Liverpool’s goals in a 2-0 win at the Wanda Metropolitano, to seal the sixth European Cup of the club’s history. Although Tottenham played a better game they just didn’t

manage to score any goals. The players and staff took an open-top bus through the city, having started at Allerton Maze south of the city and finished on the Waterfront. Over 750,000 Liverpool fans from around the country came to watch their team parade through the city and to celebrate this great win.

Wolverhampton Wanders qualify for the Europa League Wolves have qualified for the Europa League after Manchester City smashed Watford for six in the FA Cup final. The club hasn’t been in the Europa League since 1980 and have played exceptionally well this season to finish seventh in the Premier League. After City's 6-0 shellacking of the Hornets means Nuno Espirito Santo's team will enter the Europa

League at the second qualifying stage next season. They'll need to get past three two-legged ties if they're to reach the 48-team group stage, which runs from September to December. Europa League games all take place on Thursday nights and Wolves' games will be broadcast live on BT Sport, which has the UK rights to the competition.