AV 28th March 2026

FIRST & FOREMOST ASIAN WEEKLY IN EUROPE

With the Election Commission of India announcing the poll schedule for Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and the

campaign mode.

Sir Keir Starmer addressing the community

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Diplomat Vikram Doraiswami heads to Beijing

Veteran Indian diplomat Vikram Dorai swami has b een appointed as India’s next ambassador to Beijing, the Ministr y of External Affairs has announced, marking a signif icant move i n New Delhi’s di plomatic engagement with China

Currently ser ving as India’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Doraiswami will succeed Pradeep Kumar Rawat and is expected to take up his new role shortly His appointment comes as India and China continue efforts to stabilise relations following years of militar y tensions in eastern Ladakh, triggered by the Galwan Valley clash in 2020 The prolonged standoff formally concluded in October 2024

A 1992-batch Indian Foreign Ser vice off icer, Doraiswami brings extensive diplomatic experience at a time when ties with Beijing remain complex but are gradually improving His appointment signals India’s intent to carefully manage this critical bilateral

HE Vikram Doraiswami

relationship amid wider global uncertainties He is also seen as well-positioned to handle a potential visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping for the upcoming BRICS summit, given his prior role in coordinating the grouping’s 2012 summit hosted by India

An alumnus of Delhi University with a master’s degree in histor y, Doraiswami began his career in journalism before joining the foreign ser vice His diplomatic postings have included Hong Kong,

the Prime Minister’s Off ice, India’s mission to the United Nations in New York, and the Consulate in Johannesburg He has also ser ved as ambassador to Uzbekistan and the Republic of Korea, and as High Commissioner to Bangladesh before his current posting in London in 2022

Fluent in Mandarin and French, with working knowledge of Korean, Doraiswami is well equipped for his new assignment in Beijing

Shabana Mahmood faces backlash on migration changes

Shab ana M ahmood is f acin g mounting pres sure f rom both Labour M Ps and f aith leaders over swee pi ng c hanges to the UK’s m igration and refugee polici es, exposi ng deep di visi on s wi thin the govern ment

More than 100 Labour backbenchers are threatening to rebel against plans to double the residency requirement for migrants seeking Indef inite Leave to Remain from f ive to ten years Critics, led by Tony Vaughan, argue the proposal is “un-British” and could deter skilled workers, ultimately costing the Treasur y billions Ministers, however, remain f irm, citing the need to manage an estimated 1 6 million people expected to

settle in the UK by 2030 While Downing Street has hinted at transitional arrangements, dissenting MPs have dismissed these as insuff icient A symbolic Commons vote is expected in the coming months

At the same time, a coalition of religious

leaders has urged Mahmood to reconsider reforms to refugee protections In a joint letter, senior f igures including the Bishop of Leicester warned that reducing the initial protection period from f ive years to 30 months and introducing regular reviews could undermine integration and social cohesion

They also criticised a pilot scheme offering failed asylum seeker families up to £40,000 to leave voluntarily While the Home Off ice has defended the measures as “f irm but fair”, opponents warn they could leave more than a million people in prolonged uncertainty, with further reforms due later this year

Bill targets anonymous political donations

Plans are under w ay to clam p dow n on anonymo us political do nations, with m inisters seeking to prevent d ono rs from hiding behind com plex com pany structures

A forthcoming review led by Philip Rycroft is expected to recommend tougher rules to counter foreign f inancial influence in British politics Its proposals are set to be incorporated into the Representation of the People Bill currently progressing through parliament

Under the plans, donors would be required to disclose the ultimate individual behind company contributions, giving greater powers to the Electoral Commission and closing loopholes linked to opaque ownership structures

Research indicates that around a quarter of company donations in recent decades cannot be traced to identif iable individuals, raising concerns over transparency and eligibility

Bias concerns halt Essex facial recognition use

Essex Police hav e suspended th e use of liv e f ac i al rec o g n it

research indicated th e system was

ore likely to identify Black ind ividu als than those from other ethnic g roup s

which said deployments were halted due to “potential accuracy and bias risks”, while urging other forces to ensure safeguards are in place

d e

Police, involving 188 actors passing cameras o

Findings showed around half of those on a watchlist were correctly identif ied, with ver y few false matches However, the system was more accurate for men than women and signif icantly more likely to identify Black participants

Experts say the disparity may stem from uneven training data, though it could be addressed through technical adjustments

Justice Minister overhauls failing family courts

T h e M i nis try of Jus tic e h as an nou nc ed a sweeping o verhaul of the family justice system in England and Wales to replace ad versarial h earings w ith a child -focused, problem-solving m odel

Justice Minister Alison Levitt admitted that family courts have been not good enough for women and children, often retraumatising victims of domestic abuse This reform follows the success of pilots in Birmingham, where average court times dropped from 53 days in 2023 to just 23 days in 2025 The new standard will apply to all Section 8 cases, which determine child living arrangements and parental contact

Under this system, independent domestic violence advisers and Cafcass will investigate family circumstances before any court dates, ensuring child welfare is prioritised from the outset

I N B R I E F FOREIGN

AID REDUCED TO FUND DEFENCE

Ministers plan to cut UK aid to some of the world s poorest countries, reducing international development spending by 40% next year Yvette Cooper said funding for African nations will drop from £1 3bn to £67 7m over three years with cuts also affecting Afghanistan Myanmar and Lebanon The move follows Keir Starmer ’s decision to lower aid spending to 0 3% of national income to boost defence Humanitarian and climate funding will also fall Only Ukraine, Palestine and Sudan are protected Spending on health, education and women s programmes is set to nearly halve

HISTORIC VOTE BACKS ABORTION PARDONS

Women convicted, and in some cases imprisoned, for illegal abortions are set to receive pardons following a landmark vote in the House of Lords The move follows a decision by the House of Commons last June to decriminalise women who end their pregnancies outside the legal framework while retaining existing rules Medical professionals and others acting unlawfully would still face prosecution The change came through an amendment to the Crime and Policing Bill tabled by Labour backbencher Tonia Antoniazzi Even in cases where no charges were brought, abortion-related offences, classified as violent crimes, can appear on enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, carrying long-term consequences

UK AND NIGERIA SIGN MAJOR MIGRATION DEAL

The British government has secured a landmark agreement with Nigeria to significantly accelerate the deportation of individuals with no legal right to remain in the United Kingdom Under the new terms Nigeria will now recognise "UK Letters" as valid travel documents effectively bypassing the lengthy bureaucratic delays previously required to obtain emergency papers from Lagos This streamlined process aims to address the surge in fraudulent visa applications, which saw over 15,000 cases of sham marriages and forged records investigated last year The deal also includes a major infrastructure component, with British Steel supplying 120,000 tonnes of billets to redevelop Nigerian trading ports

015

Shabana Mahmood

United we stand, divided we fall

The Prime Minister at an Eid reception in No 10, drew parallels between anti-Muslim hostility and other forms of prejudice, stressing that attacks on any community are attacks on the nation itself Considering recent antisemitic attacks in Golders Green, he affirmed the government’s commitment to stand alongside all communities facing hate and division

Britain is undergoing developments And the diaspora is at the heart of it Whether it is AI summit spearheaded in 2023 by former Prime Minister Rt Hon Rishi Sunak, who spoke at the High Commission of India on Tuesday to carry on the dialogue beyond the New Delhi Summit, or Uyghur appeal, to reunite with families, or whether it is the work of t h

Sciences, and their recently established Ayurveda Centre of Excellence

But over the past two weeks, Asian Voice has reported that not only Muslim and Jewish communities, but also Hindu, Sikh, and Jain groups are facing increased targeting Often, those responsible fail to distinguish between these communities, highlighting the need for greater solidarity

According to My London, business owners in Wembley have expressed concern following a series of incidents affecting several establishments, none of which have resulted in arrests to date (see p1) Police officers have responded to reports of criminal damage and affray involving groups of youths at multiple locations on Ealing Road over recent weeks

Suraj Sweet Mart, Panesar Food and Wine, and Manek Chowk Indian restaurant were among those targeted earlier this month, with online footage depicting groups of young males entering the shops and causing significant

interior damage

Some traders and residents have raised concerns that the attacks may be targeting Hindu-owned businesses, contributing to heightened apprehension within the community In response, however the police has stated that while some incidents involved Hindu-owned premises, others did not, according to their investigations

We have reached a stage where collective action could

Police's recent decision to eliminate its twelve Faith Liaison Officers, who have been essential contacts for London’s religious communities, playing a vital role in building trust, advising on religious issues, and connecting police with faith groups, comes at a challenging time It follows a strained relations between police and the public during the Covid-19 pandemic, concerns over the Prevent strategy, and various police scandals that have damaged public trust

With interfaith and community tensions running high, faith leaders find this loss especially concerning Multiple faith groups have signed an open letter urging the Mayor of London to keep these officers in place The YouGov voting intention for The Times and Sky News shows that currently Reform UK is leading 23% of the vote, with Labour at 19% and Greens at 18%, there are high chances these divisions are only going to increase

As hate crimes increase and online divisions grow, it is important for minority communities and their leaders to come together, demand accountability from those in authority, and make sure their voices are represented By doing this, they help safeguard both their own groups and the unity of the broader society

India must rapidly embrace alternative

The ongoing conflict involving Iran has pushed India into a serious energy crisis, exposing deep vulnerabilities in the country’s energy security Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged in the Lok Sabha that the war has created unforeseen challenges for the Indian economy Once again, turmoil in the Middle East has struck at one of India’s weakest points: its heavy dependence on external energy supplies Iran’s obstruction of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted global LPG and LNG flows, leading to sudden shortages that affect industries and households alike This situation highlights how closely India’s everyday life remains tied to resources controlled by other nations

The current energy crunch should serve as a wake up call for policymakers India must urgently diversify its energy mix and move beyond excessive reliance on crude oil The country is geographically well positioned to expand renewable energy With abundant sunshine for most of the year, solar power represents a practical and strategic option f

i m i l a r l y , India’s extensive river systems offer significant potential for expanding hydropower, which could help cushion the

energy sources

impact of external supply shocks

India also holds substantial coal reserves, although production is limited by regulatory and environmental constraints A calibrated increase in domestic coal output could enhance electricity generation and reduce dependence on imported petrol, diesel, LNG, and LPG Expanding the use of domestically generated electricity for transport, industry, and household cooking would further insulate the economy from global energy disruptions

In the nuclear sector, India enjoys a relatively strong position The country is largely self reliant, with significant thorium reserves and existing expertise in thorium based nuclear technology By scaling up nuclear power generation, India could establish a stable, long term, and domestically controlled alternative to fossil fuels

The lesson from the present crisis is unmistakable To prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future, India must pursue a strong, independent energy strategy one that prioritizes diversification, reduces reliance on imported fuels, and ensures sustainable energy security for the long term

The directionless wars of post pandemic era

In the years following the Covid 19 pandemic, the world has been engulfed by three major wars, all of which can be described as directionless After Hamas’s attack on Israel, it

r e m

n s u n c l e

I s r a e l h a s u l t i m a t e l y a c h i e v e d through its military operations in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria While Israel claims to have weakened Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis groups engaged in proxy warfare the broader strategic outcome is still uncertain Similarly, the Russia–Ukraine war, which began in 2022, continues with no clear end in sight even after four years of fighting

As if these conflicts were not enough, a direct war between the United States–Israel alliance and Iran erupted in March 2026 Four weeks into the conflict, the intensity of the fighting has continued to escalate A closer examination also reveals how this war, too, fits the pattern of a directionless conflict In such wars, clear political objectives, defined end goals, and coherent strategies are absent (see As I See It on p6)

Traditionally, wars are fought for specific aims such as territorial expansion or regime change In this case, however, it is unclear what precise outcomes the United States and Israel seek in Iran It is possible that initial objectives were set, but Iran’s response appears to have disrupted these plans, making the war seem increasingly unfocused When a war lacks direction, its long term consequences become deeply worrying

During wartime, rhetoric is abundant, but it’s the developments on the ground that truly define the course of events In the first week of the conflict, the United States and Israel launched strikes targeting Iran’s senior leadership, creating the impression that regime change might be

the goal However, Iran’s military responded with calculated and precise countermeasures, overturning the assumptions of President Donald Trump and PM Benjamin Netanyahu As these plans unravelled, Trump’s messaging shifted between calls for negotiation and threats of overwhelming retaliation While such signals may be part of a broader diplomatic strategy, the absence of a clear path forward likely concerns both leaders

This is not merely a direct confrontation between the United States, Israel, and Iran Iran has targeted USaligned Gulf Arab states and their oil infrastructure, drawing these countries into the conflict as indirect participants At the same time, Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, and Iranian backed groups in Iraq are also involved, further complicating the situation Rather than moving along a single front, the conflict is expanding into a network of interconnected crises that is increasingly difficult to contain

The most alarming aspect of this war is the absence of any visible political or diplomatic solution, though advisable Major powers such as China and Russia appear to be operating quietly behind the scenes, while the United Nations has been reduced to a largely symbolic role There is no serious discussion of mediation or a ceasefire only ongoing explosions and escalating tensions Given the way the United States initiated the conflict with Iran, there seems to be little realistic chance of persuading Iranian authorities to return to the negotiating table All indications suggest that this war lacks direction, and no actor appears either capable of or willing to bring it to an end Without sustained diplomatic and political engagement, a resolution remains impossible

Thought for the week

“Don't count the days, make the days count ” M uha mmad Ali

Political Sketchbook

Alpesh Patel

The Polymarket President

Let me give you the facts in sequence Y ou can draw your own conc lusion

Donald Trump Jr sits on Polymarket s advisory board

His firm, 1789 Capital, invested double-digit millions in t

Polymarket made its grand return after newly elected President Trump dropped DOJ and Commodity Futures Trading Commission investigations into the company and cleared a path to legality

Then America went to war

On the day before the Iran war began, a flurry of large prediction market bets were placed that the war would start the following day On Polymarket alone, half a billion dollars was traded over the precise timing of when US forces would drop bombs on Iran The "Magamyman" account staked roughly $87,000 on a US strike contract just 71 minutes before the campaign went public, when the platform showed only a 17% probability, and walked

Ayatollah Khamenei leaving power paid out more than half a million more, placed before the airstrike that killed him

Blockchain analytics firm Bubblemaps identified six freshly created wallets that collectively netted $1 2 million on the February 28 strike date, with most funded within the final hours before the attack

The White House position is straightforward: the only special interest guiding the Trump administration's decision-making is the best interest of the American people One takes note of that framing

Polymarket's own defence is revealing in its way The platform said that the promise of prediction markets is to harness the wisdom of the crowd to create accurate, unbiased forecasts "That ability is particularly invaluable in gut-wrenching times like today " Schoolgirls in Tehran would presumably feel differently about the educational value of the exercise

The deeper problem is structural, not merely scandalous Federal regulations already prohibit futures contracts based on assassinations, war or terrorism But the trades that paid out upon Khamenei's death occurred on t h e l a r g e l y u n r e g u l a t e d i n

Polymarket, which some Americans still access through virtual private networks The law exists It simply does not apply where the money is

This is the architecture of impunity: write the rules, exempt the platform, drop the investigations, approve the exchange, and collect the returns As Senator Chris Murphy put it: "There are clearly individuals in the White House who are making money off of when the United States goes to war or not "

He was not describing corruption in the traditional s e n s e : b r o w n e

machinery

He was describing something newer and arguably more audacious: a system where war is a product, the presidency is an information advantage, and the betting slip is filed before the bombs fall

Net-net: the question is not whether this is legal In the gaps they have carefully constructed, it probably is The question is what kind of Republic permits it?

Alpesh Patel OBE has advised governments, worked in the US Congress, and written 18 books He writes on politics at politicalanimal me

T

k

Ronan’s mum pushes schools to engage parents

of

to n t e e n a

of mis take n iden tity has s po-

k en of her d etermina tion to fight kni fe crime

L a s t m o n t h , P o o j a Kanda, who still lives on the street where Ronan was

OBE for her campaigning

A

daughter Nikita, she regul a

n d charities to speak to young people about the dangers of carrying knives She now

w a n t s t o f o c u s m

e o n e n g a g i n g p a r e n t s , w

restorative justice, saying the courtroom gave her the answers she needed Ronan Kanda, 16, was fatally attacked with a 20-

yards from his home Since his death, Pooja has dedicated her life to tackling

IN B R I E F

LANDLORD FINED FOR OVERCROWDING

o m she believes play a crucial role in shaping children’s values Pooja has urged schools

offenders’ parents, warning that denial can reinforce harmful behaviour

Despite her advocacy,

vital opportunity to reach families directly Reflecting on the trial, she criticised

Family pledges to carry on Akbar’s restaurant legacy

T he family of th e late Sh abir

Hussain has v owed to con-

u p Hussain opened his first

1995 and expanded nation-

2024 Renowned for its live-

dishes, and enormous hanging naans, Hussain earned the title “king of curry ” He p a s s e d a w a y

n c

aged 56 in October 2024

H i s n e p h e w , N a z a k a t Hussain, said the family is

c o m m i t t e d t o p r e s e r v i n g

Shabir’s vision “His daughters are determined to carry on their father’s legacy,” he added

A k b a r ’ s n o w e m p l o y s more than 65 chefs and 300 staff

Child abuse reports in West Midlands shops

T he West M idlands Police

a re f ac i ng a m aj o r s af eg uarding crisis after a BBC

i n v es ti g a ti o n ex p o se d a

d ecade of alleged child sexual exploitation in high street m ini-m arts

Internal Dudley Council

d o c u m e n t s r e v e a l t h a t a

s e n i o r o f f i c i a l r e p e a t e d l y w a r n e d a u t h o r i t i e s t h a t children as young as 11 were

b e i n g t a r g e t e d b y s h o p workers in towns such as

Lye and Dudley

These intelligence briefings, spanning from 2016 to 2025, suggest that vulnerable youngsters were lured with free alcohol, cigarettes, a n d d r u g s b e f o r e b e i n g propositioned for sex While the police initially claimed there was no evidence to support the allegations, they hastily retracted the statement after being presented with new dossiers

• Providing companionship and general support

• Assisting with daily routines as needed

Position Details:

• Live-in: full boarding and lodging provided

• Salary: £25,000 per annum

• Friendly and supportive environment

CHANGE OF NAME

Residing at 66 Bond Road, Mitcham, CRU 3HF, London. U.Khereby give notice of my intension to change my name to MANISHABEN PARESHKUMAR THAKOR So relinquished to the intent that I may hereafter be called / known and identified the new name of MANISHABEN PARESHKUMAR THAKOR

“absolutely broken” by her

constant sense of grief and

weapons She continues to campaign for tougher laws, including stricter ID checks

knife sales, in a bid to prevent further tragedies

New legislation named

manufacture and import of ninja swords in the UK

Husband denies murdering wife after surrender

The trial of a m an accu sed of killing his wife has heard he was d eeply troubled by th e p ro s p

divo rce

Harminder Mattu, 51, is on trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court, denying the murder of his 46-year-old wife, Paramjit Kaur, at their

walked into a police station on the morning of 31 March last year and calmly confessed to the killing the previous evening O

forensic pathologist determined the cause of death was pressure applied to her neck, rendering her uncon-

Kaur, known as Soni, had filed for divorce in January 2025 after years of wanting t

Despite alleged threats and

separation

Mattu claims she provoked him during an argument

Dealer found guilty of Leicester murder attack

A drug dealer has been co nv icted o f m u rd e ri ng a pedestrian after a brutal and unprovoked attack near L ei c es ter Ro ya l Infirm ary Chukwuemeka

Ahanonu, 24, origin a l l y f r o m Peckham in southeast London, was f o u n d g u i l t y a t L e i c e s t e r

Crown Court of killing Nila Patel, 56, on 24 June last year Police described the incident as a “horrific, violent and random attack” on a “kind, gentle and loving woman ” T h e c o u r t h e a r d

c

Ahanonu had been driving erratically through Leicester

l i g h t s b e f o r e crashing his car He then fled the s c e n e a n d a t t a c k e d P a t e l , who was walking home, stamping o n h e r h e a d Hospital security s t a f f r e s t r a i n e d h i m u n t i l o f f ic e r s a r r i v e d Patel suffered a f r a

A h a n o n u , w h o h a d cannabis and dealer bags in h i s v e h i c l e , a d m i t t e d m a n s l a u g h t e r , d a n g e r o u s driving and drug offences but denied murder, claiming d i m i n i s h e d r e s p o

Ahanonu has been jailed for life

CHANGE OF NAME

I, Rubeena Anwar Shafeeq, holder of Indian Passport No. P7098621, residing at 34, Waterloo Road, IG6 2EG, London, UK, do hereby declare that my name is recorded in my passport as “RUBEENA ANWAR SHAFEEQ,” with no surname. I further declare that my name is now structured as follows: Given Name: Rubeena - Surname: Anwar Shafeeq Henceforth, I shall be known as RUBEENA ANWAR SHAFEEQ for all purposes.

I declare that the above information is true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.

The owner of a three-storey house in Wembley has been ordered to pay more than £90,000 after inspectors uncovered severe overcrowding in an illegal house in multiple occupation Willesden Magistrates’ Court found Sanjay Patel guilty of breaching multiple improvement notices at his Wyld Way property, which was licensed for seven people Investigators discovered at least 18 occupants, including a couple and their four-month-old baby living in an unsafe outbuilding without basic utilities The court issued an £87,000 fine, plus costs and surcharge Patel now faces tribunal action and possible inclusion on the Rogue Landlord Database

TWO MEN FINED £1,391 FOR PAAN SPITTING

The London Borough of Brent has secured court-ordered fines of £1 391 against two men caught spitting paan on public streets as part of a rigorous zero-tolerance crackdown on anti-social behaviour During a hearing on March 17, magistrates penalised Akshitkmar Patel and Hitesh Patel for staining pavements outside Kingsbury and North Wembley stations with tobacco residue The pair were originally issued £100 fixed penalty notices by enforcement officers but their refusal to pay led to a significant escalation in costs during the legal proceedings The local authority has doubled its enforcement actions over the past twelve months to combat the persistent defacement of street furniture

SANDWELL AND BIRMINGHAM MELA RETURNS

The Sandwell & Birmingham Mela Europe s largest South Asian music festival, returns to Victoria Park, Smethwick, on Sunday, July 26, 2026 Organisers promise a vibrant celebration of South Asian culture with live music, highenergy dance, street food, and arts The festival will feature 150+ artists, 100 stalls, and 30 food outlets, divided across eight zones, including the Desi Hits Main Stage and Food Village serving authentic dishes from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh Families can enjoy arts activities and funfair rides, while shoppers explore a Street Bazaar Tickets cost £3 per person or £12 for a family

LEICESTER UNIVERSITY AXES COURSES

The University of Leicester has sparked outrage after abruptly closing its Modern Languages and Film Studies departments, leaving nearly 300 prospective students without confirmed degree places The move rescinds UCAS offers for the September intake mid-admissions cycle The University and College Union said the decision following a contested 2025 strategic review will also cut 17 academic jobs Despite months of campaigning by staff and students the university cited financial pressures and declining demand The decision reflects a wider trend across UK universities shifting away from humanities subjects to safeguard core budgets

ANTI-MUSLIM HATE CRIMES DROP

New figures show that anti-Muslim hate crimes in Leicester remain below the national average though locals acknowledge we still have a long way to go ” This comes as the government recently introduced a formal definition of anti-Muslim hostility after a record 4 478 UK-wide incidents targeting Muslims or those perceived as Muslim In Leicestershire, police recorded 144 religion-motivated hate crimes last year, marking an 87% rise since 2012 but the lowest total since 2019 and far below 2023 s peak of 333 The county s rate of 12 3 incidents per 100 000 residents compares with the national average of 16 2, highlighting both progress and ongoing challenges

CHANGE OF NAME

I, Vaseem Shaikh, father of minor child Ali Shaikh,

as per passport address, Room No-8, Gul Mohammed Chawl No-3, Digla, Dharavi, Mumbai – 400017, currently residing at 103 Plashet Grove, East Ham, London E6 1AA, hereby declare that I have changed the name of my minor son from Ali Shaikh to Muhammad Ali Shaikh with effect from 17th July 2024. Henceforth, he shall be known as Muhammad Ali Shaikh for all purposes.

Ronan Kanda Pooja Kanda

Shabir Hussain

Paramjit Kaur

Nila Patel

High Commission of India marks Women’s Day with leadership panel

T h e H ig h C o m mi s si on of

In dia mar ke d In ter na tiona l

W omen ’ s Day on 1 0 M arch by bring in g toge the r influ-

e nt ial v oices to discuss how wom en a re shap in g le ade r-

s hip , p ublic dis cour se a n d cha nge a cross differe nt sec-

t ors

T h e e v e n t f e

Voice s of Impact: Wome

Strong, Chief Impact Officer

a

Rao, Assistant Professor at the Grantham Institute for C

Swan Chambers The discuss i

Shehla Raza Hasan, Director a

Industry

“Being here almost feels like what it must be for a woman in a room full of men at many events in govern-

In dia’s Hig

C om missione

D

encouraging reality is that

c h a n g e i s c o m i n g I t m a y have taken too long, but the trend is clear and we have every reason to see the glass as half full ”

Reflecting on his early career, he noted that when he joined the Indian Foreign Service 34 years ago, typically only one woman was part of a batch of about 12 officers “That number has steadily increased, despite the challenges women face in balancing professional careers and societal expectations,” he said

D o r a i s w a m i a l s o h i g h -

l i g h t e d h o w w o m e n w e r e once discouraged from joining the service “In the 1950s

a n d e a r l y 1 9 6 0 s i t w a s

e x t r e m e l y d i f f i c u l t f o r women to enter the Indian Foreign Service, until a pioneering woman officer challenged the rule in court and helped change the system ” Today, he said, India has

s e e n r e m a r k a b l e p r o g r e s s , with women serving as for-

e i g n s e c r e t a r i e s , a m b a s -

s a d o r s a n d h i g h c o m m i ssioners in major global postings “This shows how far we have come, though there is still much more to be done ”

E m p h a s i s i n g t h e s h i f t towards women-led development, he said the government is focusing on providing women with legislative, f i n a n c i a l a n d i n s t i t u t i o n a l support, including access to education, entrepreneurship opportunities and safe facilities

“ R e v o l u t i o n s d o n o t always happen with a bang; they happen step by step,” he added “Every step taken by women in India contributes to a larger transformation ”

Doraiswami highlighted

t h e I n d i a - U K

C o m p r e h e n s i v e E c o n o m i c and Trade Agreement, say-

ing, “it’s inspiring to think that it was negotiated by two women, ” while noting that such contributions often go unnoticed, adding it “took s o m e b o d y i n y o u r p a r l i ament to make that register ” E m p h a s i s i n g c o l l a b o r ation, he said, “ one of the things that we all learn from w o r k i n g w i t h o u r w o m e n colleagues is to re-examine partnerships and to see how p a r t n e r s h i p s c a n h e

p u s m a k e p r o g r e s s , ” a n d described the event as “ a cel-

ebration of partnerships ”

He added that women “find ways of avoiding confrontational approaches and finding solutions,” and said t h i s a p p r o a c h s t r e n g t h e n s diplomacy, noting that ties with the United Kingdom a r e a t “ a w o n d e r f u l s t a g e where the future is in our hands to redefine ” Discussion highlights women le ader ship, con fid ence a nd inclusion

During the panel discussion on women ’ s leadership

a n d i n c l u s i o n , Ja sm i n e Dot iwala O BE reflected on the progress and persistent challenges within the creative industries Drawing on her three decades of experience in media, music and the arts, she noted that diversity

i n i t i a t i v e s o f t e n m o v e i n c y c l e s “ I ’ v e s p e n t t h r e e decades watching the same p a t t e r n s r e p e a t e d i n m y industry,” she said, recalling that she was the first Asian to host a mainstream entertainment show on Channel 4 i n t h e 1 9 9 0 s W h i l e t h e i n d u s t r y a t t r a c t s m

n y women at entry level, she s a i d t h e r e a l c h a l l e n g e i s retention and progression

“Women come in, but they don’t see themselves at decision-making tables they’re navigating networks historic a l l y c r e a t e d b y m e n ”

D o t i w a l a a d d e d t h a t a l t h o u g h d a t a s h o w s improvement, the industry must evolve to better reflect women ’ s life journeys “Yes, things are improving, but we need to redesign the industry so it takes into account a woman ’ s career path ” Speaking about inspira-

tion and access in sport and t h e a r t s , Lo t t ie Bi r d s a ll -

Str ong shared how she often had to disguise herself as a boy to play football in local parks as a child Her ambit i o n s w e r e s h a p e d b y t h e film Bend It Like Beckham, d i r e c t e d b y G u r i n d e r

Chadha “I remember watching it and saying, ‘I’m going to do that,’” she said, refer-

ring to the idea of earning a s c h o l a r s h i p t o t h e U n i t e d

States, something she later a c h i e v e d B i r d s a l l - S t r o n g later worked with the film’s creative team on the stage musical adaptation, calling it a “full circle moment ” She added that football gave her a strong sense of belonging and inspired her to focus on the social value of sport and the arts “Sport gave me a community and made me think about how accessibility in sport can benefit indiv i d u a l s , c o m m u n i t i e s a n d whole nations ” Discussing her journey i n S T E M , s c i e n t i s t Dr R eshma Ra o highlighted the c h a l l e n g e s w o m e n f a c e when progressing from education to research careers

After moving to the UK in 2 0 1 0 t o s t u d y m e c h a n i c a l engineering at University of S o u t h a m

o u n d that the path to becoming a scientist was unclear “There were four women in a class o f 1 5 0 , ” s h e r e c a l l e d R a o stressed that mentorship is crucial in helping women see a path forward in science “When you say, ‘Now I want to become a scientist,’ that p

hard,” she said, adding that both male and female mentors can play an important

r

researchers B

bias within the legal profession in England and Wales Q

L to R: Shehla Raza Hasan, Shobana Iyer, Dr Reshma Rao, Jasmine Dotiwala OBE and Lottie Birdsall-Strong

HE Vikram Doraiswami addressing the audience in the event

Over the p ast few centu ri es, es p e c i al ly i n t h e la s t 3 00

y ea rs , t h e We s te rn wo rl d an d civilisatio n h ave undergo ne major ch anges In earlier days, much o f E urop e was stro ngly i nflu enced by the au th ority o f th e Ch urch

T he Po pe held great po wer and o ften p layed an imp ortant ro le in p oliti cal and so cial matters Th is influence even extended to global af fai rs, inc lu din g drawi ng lin es throu gh maps to which E uropean

c o l o n i al p o we rs di v i de d an d claimed territo ries in Africa

Remember Galileo Galilei, a highly innovative scientist who challenged long-held beliefs about the universe? His ideas raised serious questions about how people understood the cosmos and the role of religious authority in scientific thinking Church leaders strongly opposed his views and he was put on trial because they were seen as going against established religious teachings

Around the same time in the

d e v e l o p m e n t o f s

Isaac Newton made major contributions by formulating the Laws of Universal Gravitation and laying the foundations of modern p h y s

d

H

expand humanity’s understanding of the natural laws that govern the universe

Looking back, many historians saw the ideas of thinkers such as Galileo and the later discoveries of Newton as part of a wider intellectual movement that led to the

A g e o f E n l i g h t

inquiry and the questioning of long-established authority

Kno wledge across civilisations

I do not wish to enter the d e b a t e a b o u t t h e o r i g i n s o f human beings, often referred to as

t h e T h e o r y o f E v o l u t i o n However, as someone influenced by Indian civilisation, it is worth noting that there was a time when much of Europe was still developing, while India, China and other p a r t s o f A s i a a n d A f r i c a h a d already established strong centres of learning, trade and culture

With the rise and spread of Islam, important advances in scie n c e , t e c h n o l o g y , m a t h e m a t i c s and astronomy spread across the Middle East and other regions, helping to preserve and expand knowledge Civilisations such as India and China had already made significant progress in areas such as philosophy, governance, science and commerce

T he rise o f mo dern ec onomic ideas

Around 250 years ago, Europe, e s p e c i a l l y w i t h i n t h e E n g l i s hspeaking spheres of Britain and later the United States, underwent two major transformations

i n i n t e l l e c t u a l t h o u g h t s a n d administrative system of governance

One of th e most influential moments was the p ubli cation o f ‘ An I nqu iry into th e Natu re and Causes of th e Wealth of Natio ns ’ by Adam Smith The work introduced powerful ideas about economic activity, productivity and

the role of individual effort in generating prosperity It laid the foundations for modern economic thought, highlighting how efficient labour, specialisation and organised markets contribute to the creation of wealth

At its core, Smith’s philosophy s u g g e s t

through honest enterprise, they indirectly also contribute to the welfare of the community

Interestingly, these ideas find a striking parallel in the teachings o f Kautilya Niti by Chanakya, the a n ci

and p olitical strategist, dating back nearly 2,500 years While separated by centuries and geography, both thinkers emphasised the importance of produc-

of governance This marked

political history and in the devel-

tions

teaches us that power without

ethics eventually lead to imbalance Adam Smith warned against excessive concentration of power in markets, while Chanakya cautioned rulers against greed, cor-

Their combined insights remind

requires both economic strength and moral restraint

Western civilisation, particul

stands at an important crossroads The pursuit of power, wealth and

mony with nature and community In many respects, these traditions present themselves less as rigid systems of belief and more as g u i d

Concepts such as dharma (duty a

quences) and the search for inner balance have moulded the way many people across the region think about life and responsibility At the heart of this understanding lies the deeper meaning of Dharma as expressed in our shastras through the principle of ‘ V a s u dh ai va K u tu m ba k am ’ , (entire wo rld is one family) This philosophy reflects the essence of Sanatan Dharma, which promotes p e a c e f u l c o e x i s t e n c e , m u t u a l

organised state, efficient taxation, strong administration and governance that is both ethical and pragmatic as the foundation of prosperity

Where Adam Smith speaks of free markets and individual enter-

, the teachings of Adam Smith and Chanakya present a balanced eco-

blends individual initiative with moral responsibility and freedom with structure This perspective offers a deeper understanding of how communities can achieve not only wealth, but also stability and long-term sustainability

Smith’s ideas on productivity and enterprise became central to the transformation of economies, helping drive the rapid industrial and financial growth of England and later other parts of Western E u r o p e S

insights, extending beyond gover-

relevant, offering practical guidance for achieving stability, prosperity and effective leadership in both public and private life Lessons from history and th e fu tu re of ci vilisati on 2 5 0 y e

brute force cannot guide commu-

, they must give way to a more balanced and humane way of living

Perhaps the true lesson from both Adam Smith and Chanakya is this: prosperity is meaningful only when it serves the community and power is justified only when it protects and uplifts people.

Spiritual wisdom and shared hu man values

When reflecting on history, one thought often comes to mind What we call Indian civilisation has long influenced large parts of

Buddhism and Sikhism have generally placed strong importance on ethical living, self-discipline, inner reflection and living in har-

influenced other parts of Asia as

exchange Because of this back-

Christianity, Judaism and Islam, which emerged in a different historical and cultural setting and tend to place greater weight on p

tures

It is not my intention to suggest that one tradition is superior to another Every civilisation and faith has contributed to humanity’s moral and spiritual journey What truly matters is that we draw from these traditions the wisdom that helps us live more responsibly, peacefully and with g

teachings of sacred books such as the Bhagavad Gita, the bible and the Quran, we find that their core message is very similar In different ways, they all stress that there is one supreme divine truth and that human beings should live with compassion, humility and r e s p e c t f o r o

s T h e f u n d amental principle running through these teachings is simple: love fellow human beings, live peacefully and avoid being driven by greed, ego, anger or the constant pursuit of wealth

A fragile world and th e need for peace

respect, tolerance and acceptance

These are not signs of weakness, but expressions of inner strength, s e l f - r e s p e c t a n d s e l f - r e s t r a i n t True Dharma teaches that one must live harmoniously with others while upholding one ’ s own values with dignity and balance

S i m i l a r l y , t h e s a c r e d s o u n d ‘OM’ which holds an important p l a c e i n t r a d i t i o n s s u c h a s Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism is often seen as the primordial sound of the universe and a symbol of unity and ultimate reality

For centuries, chanting Om has b e e n u s e d i n m e d i t a t i o n a n d prayer to calm the mind and deepen awareness

T o d a y , t h r o u g h t h e g l o b a l spread of yoga and meditation, OM is recognised and practised a r o u n d t h e w o r l d , s y m b o l i s i n g h u m a n i t y ’ s s h a r e d s e a r c h f o r peace, balance and inner harmony

In this context, an important idea emerges, focusing on competing with oneself rather than with others As seen in leaders like Narendra Modi, the weight is on c o n t i n u o u s s e l f - i m p r o v e m e n t instead of comparison This aligns with dharmic philosophy, where personal growth, discipline and s e l f - m a s t e r y a r e v a l u e d a b o v e r i v a l r y T r u e p r o g r e s s l i e s i n becoming a better version of oneself, not in surpassing others This approach developed over t h o u s a n d s o f y e a r s w i t h i n t h e diverse cultural landscape of the

The continuing tensions and conflicts in the Middle East serve as a strong reminder of how fragile peace can be in our modern w o r l d W a r s a n d m i l i t a r y c o nfrontations may arise from political disagreements, security concerns or historical grievances, yet their consequences are felt most d e e p l y b y o r d i n a r y p e o p l e Increasingly, such conflicts also reflect a deeper struggle for dominance, nations seeking to assert themselves as global powers and extend their influence over others However, in this pursuit of s u p r e m a c y , t h e r e a l q u e s t i o n remains: what is ultimately being achieved? While it takes generations to build and nurture a civilisation, its destruction can unfold in a matter of moments

As we look back on milestones such as the 250th anniversary of The Wealth of Nations and the approaching 250 years since the United States became an independent nation, these moments are not only about looking back They a r e a l s o o p p o r t u n i t i e s t o l o o k ahead with hope that the lessons of history will guide us toward a more just, balanced and peaceful future

History repeatedly shows that p

immense human sufferings, economic strain and instability across regions While nations may pursue their strategic interests, the

recognises that lasting

SOCIAL COHESION AT RISK

Rising attacks and divisive rhetoric against UK minority communities signal urgent call for solidarity and action

F o r m e r C h a n ce l lo r S a j id

Ja vid has soun ded t he alar m ov er in cr easin g division s in t he UK, highlighting a worr yin g sur ge in on line debat es question ing t he ide ntit y of n on-white politician s S p e a k i n g t o

P o l i t i c s H o m e , J a v i d n o t e d that discussions questioning whether figures like Prime

M

“truly British” would have

b

d e c a d

2026, Sunak described himself as “British, English and B r i t i s h A

wing podcaster Konstantin Kisin suggested he could not

b e c o n s i d e r e d E n g l i s h

b e c a u s e h e i s a “ b r o w nskinned Hindu ”

As the UK’s first British Asian Prime Minister, Sunak has repeatedly warned that the country risks “slipping back” into more overt forms of racism Javid linked the rise of such online talking points to how people now consume news, particularly through social media platforms shaped by algorithms and echo chambers

However, it isn’t just the British identity of politicians under scrutiny, but the very identity and safety of minor-

i t y c o m m u n i t i e s R e c e n t incidents underscore this: in north London, Jewish charity-owned ambulances were deliberately set on fire, an act now being investigated as an antisemitic hate crime

b y c o u n t e r - t e r r o r o f f i c e r s Meanwhile, business owners in Wembley report feeling “stressed and very scared” after a series of attacks on South Asian-owned shops,

w i t h p r e m i s e s o n E a l i n g Road repeatedly targeted by

g r o u p s o f y o u t h s D e s p i t e multiple reports, no arrests h a v e b e e n m a d e b y t h e Metropolitan Police

T e n s i o n s a r e f u r t h e r inflamed when public leaders question or attack the

than ever The voice of all w i l l b e s t r o n g e r t h a n t h e voice of one is the emphasis a n d c o m m u n i t i e s n

d t o come together

One example of an area w h e r e c o l l e c t i v e a c t i o n

could make a tangible differe n c e i s t h e M e t r o p o l i t a n

Police’s decision to disband

Officers the force’s key p

traditions and practices of m i n o r i t y c o m m u n i t i e s A recent example came during Eid celebrations at Trafalgar Square, when Conservative MP Nick Timothy described mass Muslim prayer as an “act of domination,” a comm e n t e n d o r s e d b y p a r t y l e a d e r K e m i B a d

d

Nigel Farage called for bann i n g g r o u p s o f M u s l i m s from praying publicly at hist o r i c B r i t i s h s i t e s J a v i d ’ s p o i n t i s c l e a r : w h e n t h e country’s leaders undermine t h e i d e n t i t y o f m i n o r i t y communities, it sets a tone that emboldens the public to do the same, targeting both

l e a d e r s a n d o r d i n a r y c i t izens

For the past two weeks, Asian Voice has highlighted that not just Muslim and J e w i s h c o m m u n i t i e s , b u t Hindu, Sikh, and Jain com-

m u n i t i e s , a r e i n c r e a s i n g l y being targeted Perpetrators often see only similarities between these groups rather than their differences, making solidarity more crucial

London’s religious communities These officers have historically built trust, provided expertise on religious matters, and helped bridge g

period of strained policing d

demic, flaws in the Prevent strategy, and erosion of public trust through police scandals, the loss of these officers comes at a time of height-

inter-communal tensions, a

describe as deeply troubling

Multiple faith groups have now signed an open letter to the Mayor of London calling for their retention

In an era of rising hate crimes, distorted narratives,

minority communities and

heard In doing so, they can help protect not only their communities but the social cohesion of the nation itself

Royal Mail faces deceit allegations

T he Ro yal Mail is cur-

rently embroiled in a d eepening scand al as w histle-blowers across

t he U ni ted Ki ng d o m a lleg e th at m anag er s a re fo r ci n g s ta ff to h ide undelivered post to artificially meet performance targ ets T h e c o m p a n y executives appeared before MPs on the Business and Trade Committee to answer for these deceitful practices, which postal workers claim involve taking the mail for a ride to clear sorting frames during inspections

Staff from various delivery offices told the BBC that letters are being side-lined in favour of more profitable parcels, leading to significant delays for millions In the 2024-25 financial year,

Roy

77% of first-class mail on time, far below the legal 93% requirement, resulting in a £37 million fine from the regulator Ofcom F r u s t

s have reported missing vital hospital appointments, with some pensioners now trave l l

offices to retrieve their own

c

Royal Mail maintains that 92% of letters are delivered

Domestic abusers to face real-time tracking

D o m es ti c ab u se rs w il l b e mo nitored in real tim e using el ec tr o ni c tag s t h at a ler t police if th ey ap pro ach their v i c ti m s , u nd e

a m aj o r expansion o f o ffend er tagging

Described as the largest rollout of its kind in the UK, P r i s o n s m i n i s t e r L o r d Timpson announced a £100 million programme that will

see most offenders tagged u

September

The changes form part

after serving a third of their sentence They will then be electronically monitored in the community before moving to licence conditions

Workers’ Union blames a toxic managerial culture and a recruitment crisis for the operational chaos

To combat these systemic failures, the company is piloting a controversial new delivery model that reduces secondc l a s s d

y other day However, frontline staff in these trial areas report that morale has hit an all-time low as workloads remain impossible to complete

A

a r y inquiry continues, the regulator has warned that furt h e r m

penalties are likely if service

or stalking come within

set distance of their victims With consent, victims’ locations will

devices, enabling police to intervene quickly if a risk is identified

Anjem Choudary fails appeal against life sentence

Extremis t preac her Anje m Choudary has lost his bid to overturn hi s 202 4 convi ction and life sen tence f or di re cting a ban ned terror group, ens uri ng he will rem ain i n prison unti l at least age 85

A three-judge panel at the Court of Appeal ruled that Choudary’s trial had been fair and dismissed his appeal He was found guilty of trying to rebuild the al-Muhajiroun network following a previous prison term, receiving a life sentence with a minimum 28-year term

Lord Justice Edis described the case as “of exceptional gravity, persistence and duration,” stating the sentence was neither excessive nor wrong in principle Choudary had led alMuhajiroun since the late 1990s, with many followers

later committing terrorism, including fighting for the Islamic State

Choudary was first jailed in 2016 for pledging allegiance to IS After his 2021 release, he attempted to revive the network, prompting an international undercover operation that stopped his plans His coaccused, Khalid Hussein, was also denied permission to appeal his six-year sentence for membership of al-Muhajiroun

The Court of Appeal confirmed that the evidence against both men was strong and the sentences appropriate given the ongoing risk they posed

Sajid Javid

Open iftar at Trafalgar Square

Anjem Choudary

Conservative Friends of India hosts Spring Reception

Baroness Verma with back-

reception was attended by

mentarians, business leaders, and community representatives

The event celebrated the “Living Bridge”, the

community, and its vital role in strengthening UK–India

Speakers highlighted key a

between the two countries Nusrat Ghani MP, Deputy

Commons, spoke on legisla-

ments in bilateral trade and innovation

Sir Oliver Dowden CBE M P , C F I C

emphasised the Conservative

tion’s initiatives on investment and growth The reception also facili-

with

stronger

Tata Group chairman receives honorary knighthood

N atarajan Ch andrasekaran, ch airman o f the Tata Gro up, h as been awarded an h ono ra ry k n i gh t h o o d b y t h e British government

o utstandi ng co ntributi on to India-UK business relatio ns H

Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE) at an

h High Commissioner’s residence in New Delhi High

C o m m i s s i o n e r L i n d y

C a m e r o n , s p e a k

behalf of King Charles III,

Indian music celebrated at The Bhavan

T he Bhav an hosted its annual Sangeet Nritya Utsav , celeb ra ti ng th e ri ch n es s o f Indian m usic and dance

tions to music

T

filled with music lovers, and

T h e h i g h l i g h t o f t h e evening was a benefit sitar concert by Smt Punita Gupta and her disciples, performed in support of the institution

S h e w a s a c c o m p a n i e d b y Rikhil Rai on flute, Ketan

B i d w e o n t a b l a , a n d M Balachandar on mridangam, creating a vibrant and engaging musical experience

A senior disciple of Ravi Shankar, Smt Punita Gupta

h a s l o n g b e e n a s s o c i a t e d with The Bhavan, contributing through both teaching and performances while nurturing the next generation of sitar players As part of the evening, M Balachandar was h

Gupta in recognition of his

sidiaries, is a major employer and investor across sectors including automotive, steel, technology, and consumer goods

C h a n d r a s e k a r a n d e d icated the honour to “all colleagues in the Tata Group,” highlighting the company ’ s o n g o i n g c o m m i t m e n t t o innovation, green technologies, and advanced manufacturing in the UK, including JLR’s transition to an allelectric future and investments in battery technology and green steel

Historic Shikshapatri manuscript tours UK temples

O ne of Hinduis

Bodleian Libraries

or a l andmark tour acro ss the United Kingdom, marking its 200th anniversary

ophy While widely printed

Bodleian’s copy is among the

believed to have been personally presented by the author

leaders of the Swaminarayan faith, offering

rare opportunity to view the sacred text

Shikshapatri, meaning

principles of ethical and

Sanskrit verses distilling key teachings from Hindu philos-

Learn to hold life lightly

Rohit Vadhwana

We cling tightl y to life , its pr ocesse s and out co mes Ou r de sire to co nt rol eve rything in life co mes f rom our insecurity and posse ssive ne ss F alsel y be lie ving th at if we don't co ntr ol eve rything , life will go ha ywir e, we ma ke it r ath er infl exible Becau se of th is assu mption, we t end to pre vent lif e fro m mov ing in its na tura l cour se . This result s in t he expe ct ation of ce rta in o utcome s Whe n it d oesn't h app en, we ge t frustr ate d

No one knows what is going to happen the next moment, but still, we plan for a hundred years of life Not only our life, but also that of our family members What my son should do when he grows up, to whom my daughter should marry, whether my wife should take up a job or not - we try to overthink all these decisions Rather, we should wait for life to unfold options and make a decision accordingly We feel the pain of disappointment This is because we tend to hold life tightly, rather than just letting it be

Holding life tightly causes frustration It only results in pain A river best flows in its natural course If you try to change her course, you have to make many efforts and arrangements It may still be possible for the river to flow in a direction we decide for it, but it is impossible to guide life by our decisions and intentions Life is not to be made; it is to be lived It is no 'do' or 'make' verbs that apply to life, but 'be' is the most appropriate verb to describe it as a state, as a process It is what it is, and is best lived in that form, in that spirit

Bha ga wan K rishna says in Bha gav ad Gita, Ch apt er 2, Ve rse 51:

Translation: The wise, endowed with equanimity of intellect, abandon attachment to the fruits of actions, which bind one to the cycle of life and death By working in such consciousness, they attain the state beyond all suffering

Life becomes beautiful and enjoyable when we accept it as it comes Therefore, as per Krishna, one should abandon all attachment to the fruits of actions and stop predicting or planning life beyond certain limits Because just by letting it go, you hold it closer But by caging it, you lose control over it

The way you cannot hold sand tightly in your fist, a similar attempt to hold life tightly will result in losing it Khalil Gibran, in The Prophet, elaborates this aspect further:

"Your living is determined not so much by what life brings to you as by the attitude you bring to life; not so much by what happens to you as by the way your mind looks at what happens "

A dancer dances well when she allows her body to perform with grace, not by forcing it So is life

Let it be graceful in its flow, and you will see neither pain nor pleasure affects you as much You gain control in life by giving up, by just watching things happen as they do Rather than making things happen, just witness them, acknowledge them. Neither discard them, nor try to own them Just let them happen Such uncontrolled control over life will give you true flexibility to manoeuvre through its various stages

deep historical significance, having been gifted in 1830 to Sir John Malcolm during a period of colonial transition Its teachings promoting nonviolence, honesty, vegetarianism and moral discipline, continue to guide millions today U

Weston Library in Oxford, the manuscript’s 2026 tour marks a

e m o m e n t o

d i r e c t engagement with communities Stops include temples in W

drawing

When you allow yourself this much flexibility in life, you automatically reduce strain Since you are no longer trying to make things, but let things be, your strain of not being able to manage life goes away It not only gives you more options to handle situations when they happen, but also allows life to present you with more opportunities

Remembering the fact that nothing is permanent in the universe, your acceptance of impermanence offers more freedom in life This takes you out of a stressful approach towards life and presents you with graceful living Why cling to stress when you can enjoy everything with grace?

Elixir:

When you try to control life, it becomes stressful, but by allowing flexibility and freedom, your life becomes graceful

(Expressed opinions are personal)

Co-Chair Dr Koolesh Shah

Chairman of the Tata Group Natarajan Chandrasekaran (third right) with British High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron (third left) and family members

Priests and devotees offering flower petals over the Shikshapatri as a mark of reverence

M Balachandar being honoured by Shambhu Gupta

Punita Gupta

(L-R) Nusrat Ghani MP, Dr Koolesh Shah, Sir Oliver Dowden, Baroness Sandip Verma (front-centre), H E Vikram Doraiswami and Resham Kotecha

Guests pose together at the event

Holi Celebrated for the first time in UK Parliament

F or th e first time in British

p arli am

Shivani Raja and Kanishka Narayan in partnership with the 1928 Institute, with the S p

state rooms welcomed MPs, peers, and members of the British Indian community, bringing colour, music, and culture to the heart of the UK’s democracy

K

described it as “ an honour to host Holi right at the heart of our democracy,” adding that the event also celebrat-

moments for UK–India relations in decades, including a c

agreement and deep AI collaboration, made possible by the enduring contributions

every walk of public

P expressed her delight that

munity could join the

Speaker for sharing personal

Citibond celebrates East African Asian heritage

C itibond Travel has backed a recent event ho sted by the East African Association, led by H ars had

ibutions of East

Britain’s centuries-old relationship with India, describing Holi as “the celebration of the victory of good over evil and the end of winter

Indians who first arrived in the UK during the 1940s and 5

British Indian community’s enduring legacy

Shift towards prevention-led healthcare in UK

G rowing global unc ertainty has intensified i nterest i n prevention-focus ed healthc

attention to Indi an tradit

on a

as Ayurveda and Yoga T h r o u g

the All-Party Parliamentary G

Traditional Sciences (APPG

Ayurveda, Yoga, and related

researched

The APPG ITS is currently developing a Green P

Ayurveda into UK healthcare, supported by internat

London summits The initiative builds on longstand-

Charles III, who has cham-

address gaps in care, particularly for those not acutely ill but lacking support for overall wellbeing The longterm aim is a complement

Service” to improve public health and ease pressure on existing services

Patel, won complimentary tickets to Kenya, sponsored by Citibond Travel in partnership with Kenya Airways

global perspective Produced by Akhtar, an acclaimed

with contemporary sounds from the UK

Describing the project, Haria said it seeks to highl i g

essence across faiths “This

within all of us,

said, adding that the collaboration represents

journey

The album will feature

alongside interpretations of timeless poetry by celebrated figures including Amir Khusrau, Kabir, Meera Bai, Bulleh Shah and Rumi

from both the UK and India, t h e r e l

bridge ancient spiritual traditions with a modern, global sound

Bhavik Haria (right) and Tauseef Akhtar

(Front-centre) Shivani Raja (left), Sir Lindsay Hoyle (centre) and Kanishka Narayan (right) along with other community leaders

A war that bleeds wallets dry with no end in sight

Energy costs are surging across the world as oil and gas

n d

m

uncertainty Conflict involving Israel and the United States against Iran does not stay contained, it surges through global supply chains and lands brutally in household bills

Families are paying more to heat their homes and power their lives, not because of domestic failure, but because volatility sits at the core of global energy flows

What sharpens public anger is not only the conflict but the absence of a clear and consistent explanation for it Reports of resignations and visible division within the United States reveal a troubling lack of unified purpose and direction When political leadership appears fractured, confidence collapses far beyond national borders For households grappling with rising costs, the sense that no one can clearly define the objective or the outcome makes the burden far harder to defend

Energy markets do not pause for clarity, they surge

disruption is enough to drive prices higher, and those increases cascade across the world, including within the Middle East itself The result is a shared economic strain that slices across geography and politics Nations close to the conflict face immediate instability, while those far away still absorb the financial shock

The lesson is becoming impossible to ignore Conflict without clarity carries a cost far beyond the battlefield Governments must recognise that foreign policy and energy s

strategy and a stronger commitment to end the war, households worldwide will continue to pay for decisions made far above them, and far outside their control

Dr Narsinhbhai Patel

Remembering Sarla Maheshwari

This follow s the new s item abo ut Sarla's d eath publish ed in AV 21-27 February, 2026

I do not exactly know when and for how long Sarla was in Britain presenting the news in Hindi on television But I remember her last very interesting words

meaning, I am going to India, not knowing what relationships await me She was very elegant and pretty

If you think carefully, her final words were really philosophical because she was watched by persons of all ages young, old and adolescents I cannot think of even one person who would not have thought to be like her TV news broadcast media today keep pressing the button every second and this puts one off but this was not so in those days Sarla's coming into this world was worthwhile Nothing is permanent except the Almighty God All praise to her and her Maker

Jo gind er Singh

Education gap hits white boys

White w orking -class bo ys in the UK remain the low est-performing group in ed ucation, with fresh analysis sho wing they continue to fall behind despite years of policy focus

Trevor Phillips Sewell is expected to highlight the issue to Keir Starmer, warning that the state is still failing this group Research by the Centre for Social Justice, based on Department for Education data, found disadvantaged white boys record the weakest results in core subjects

The findings mark five years since the Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities concluded that class, geography, and family stability, rather than race alone, drive inequality

The Department for Education said it aims to reduce the disadvantage gap and improve outcomes for all children

Harman rebukes Rayner on migration

Harriet Harman has criticised Angela Rayner fo r oppo sing Labour’ s p rop osed migration reform s, saying her c o m m e nt s w ere “ w ro n g ” an d u nhelpful

Rayner had described plans to double the time migrants must wait for settlement as “un-British” in a speech to party activists

Harman argued the criticism was a “negative intervention” and urged Rayner to offer a constructive alternative The government is pushing ahead with stricter settlement rules affecting around 1 7 million migrants who have arrived since 2021, although some concessions may be made Downing Street confirmed the reforms remain under review following a public consultation with over 200,000 responses, while the Home Office said the changes will not require a parliamentary vote

Watchdog to reconsider Alzheimer’s drugs

Thousand s of patients could

ac cessing new

after

Natio nal Inst

Excellence ( Nice) ag reed to review its earlier decision to

Donanemab, were initially turned down in June, with Nice concluding that their benefits did not justify the high cost However, the regulator will now reassess the evidence after manufacturers successfully appealed the ruling

The appeal argued that

the evaluation failed to fully

and social benefits, including reduced strain on carers, the NHS and social care systems, as well as improvements in patients’ quality of life

Around 70,000 people in England with early-stage Alzheimer’s could be eligible

drugs are available privately in the UK at a cost of about £60,000 per year

development

Cancer treatment delays put thousands at risk

patients waited longer than the 62-day standard

Significant regional disparities were also revealed

year, according

pressures

Data obtained under the Freedom of Information Act shows only 63% of patients, a r o u n d 1 2 5 , 0 0 0 p e o p l e , began treatment within two months of an urgent referral, well below the NHS target of 85% A further 72,400

A s e x p e r t s w a r n e d d e l a y s can be fatal, Health secret a r y W e s S t r e e t i n g h a s pledged to improve survival rates and meet waiting time targets

A n a l y s t s c a u t i o n t h a t achieving these goals will r e q u i r e m a j o r i m p r o v ements in NHS capacity and resources

BBC to receive permanent royal charter

The BBC will no long er face

a ten-year surviv al test after the gov ernm ent announced it will be g ranted a p ermanent royal charter C u l t u r e S e c r

Nandy said the move ends

which the BBC could cease to exist if its charter was not renewed on time The BBC will now be on a similar footing to institutions such as the Bank of England and the British Film Institute T

w s warnings from the BBC that the current system poses an “existential threat,” leaving

almost perpetual” govern-

permanent charter removes that risk, funding and oper-

ational terms will still be reviewed periodically

h e B B C

w o u l d b e e x p e c t e d t o i m p r o v e t r a n s p a r e n c y , d e c e n t r a l i s e p r o g r a m m e

c o m m i s s i o n i n g b e y o n d

L o n d o n , a n d g i v e s t a f f greater ability to raise concerns

UK cracks down on racist doctors

Health secretary Wes Streeting has anno unced sw eeping refo rms to make it easier to strike off d octo rs who use racist or antisemitic lang uag e, in what is described as the big gest overhaul of m ed ical regulation in decad es

The changes will strengthen the powers of the General Medical Council (GMC), allowing it to challenge decisions made by the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS), which currently rules on suspensions The reforms follow a review led by John Mann, who criticised the system as “too slow and cumbersome” in dealing with racism Additional oversight will also be given to the Professional Standards Authority The move comes after controversial cases, including that of Rahmeh Aladwan, initially cleared despite antisemitic behaviour Streeting said the NHS must be a safe space for all, while Mann stressed that racism should bring swift and meaningful consequences

Heathrow chief rebukes critics over runway “misinformation”

The ch ief executiv e of Heath row Airp ort has accused opponents of its prop osed third runw ay o f “tw isting facts”, as debate intensifies ov er the multibillion-pound exp ansion

Thomas Woldbye said criticism of the £49 billion project must be grounded in evidence, rejecting claims from airlines that costs could significantly drive up ticket prices Industry figures have warned passengers could face increases of £60 or more, with total project costs potentially exceeding £100 billion

Heathrow disputes this, estimating the impact at about £15 per passenger over time Woldbye argued expansion would boost competition, increase routes and ultimately lower fares

The proposed runway, which could be completed by 2035, would expand capacity by 66 million passengers annually and add £17 billion to the UK economy, though it faces regulatory scrutiny and strong opposition

Access to new drugs under review

Plans to expand NHS access

to i nno v ati v e bu t c o st ly medicines are being reconsidered by m inisters amid concerns over affordability and uncertainty surro unding a pro posed agreement with the United States

The policy, which would allow the NHS to increase spending on new drugs by up to 25%, was part of a w i d e r d e a l l i n k e d t o t h e

Donald Trump administrat i o n I n r e t u r n , t h e U K would continue exporting pharmaceuticals tariff-free to the US for three years

H o w e v e r , t h e a g r e e m e n t has yet to be formally ratified, casting doubt on the policy’s rollout

O f f i c i a l s w i t h i n t h e Department of Health have raised concerns about the e s t i m a t e d £ 1 b i l l i o n c o s t over two years, warning it may require cuts elsewhere

i n N H S

Drugmakers have

the policy offers value for money before a final decision is made

Stepson jailed for stepmother’s brutal murder

T h e Br ad f o rd C ro w n Court h as sentenced a 22-year-old man to life im p ris onm ent fol lowing the calculated mu rder of his step mother us i ng h er ow n h eadscarf A bd ul Sami w as ord ered to serve a minimum of 1 4 years and 91 days for the killing of 4 1 - ye ar- o ld Ri z w ana Kousar

T h e c o u r t h e a r d

t h a t S a m i s t r a n g l e d M r s K o u s a r a t t h e i r K e n s i n g t o n R o a d h o m e before attempting to stage the scene as an accident

I n

mobile phone revealed he had researched inheritance laws and the survival rates o f o x y g e n

s t a r v e d b r a

n s months prior to the attack Despite his claims

Lisa Nandy

Abdul Sami

Harriet Harman

EID AT NO 10

“This is the centre of government,” Starmer said, addressing the assembled guests “It’s really appropriate that you ’ re here in the centre of that, and it’s your right to put your fingerprints on what we ’ re doing ” His remarks underscored a central theme of the evening: the recognition of British Muslims as an integral part of the nation’s civic and political life

The reception comes against a backdrop of rising community anxieties Only days before the event, controversy erupted over

insensitive comments regarding Eid celebrations in Trafalgar Square, which were widely condemned by leaders across political and faith communities Starmer did not shy away from addressing this head-on “Those comments were utterly disgraceful,” he said “It is something to celebrate that we have religious gatherings and open prayers in public spaces That is what makes us British That is something we should be proud of ”

Beyond domestic controversies, the Prime Minister acknowledged global tensions affecting communities in the UK From unrest in the Middle East to humanitarian crises in Gaza, Starmer emphasised the responsibility of the government to work with allies to de-escalate conflicts and provide stability “I know that many people here have friends and family in the region, for whom this has been a trying time,” he said, recognising the emotional weight carried by members of the British Muslim community

The tone of the evening was one of reflection and celebration Starmer highlighted the spirit of Ramadan, noting the extraordinary generosity and community service demonstrated by British Muslims From acts of charity to inclusive cultural events, these traditions, he argued, are the building blocks of social cohesion He said, “Communities coming together, inviting others to join in We all gain, actually, by being able to celebrate together, to break fast together, as we have all done many, many times, carrying out acts of service, and the extraordinary generosity of British Muslims in giving to the vulnerable and those in need

“That is all what Ramadan is about, and that sense of giving, that sense of recognising community, of

being of and with the community, because that's how you strengthen bonds of community and the decency of values that unite us ”

Starmer’s speech also addressed the rise in hate crimes targeting Muslims, which has been a persistent concern in recent years He recalled his work as Director of Public Prosecutions, expressing dismay at the reversal of progress in combating such crimes “It is deeply saddening to see hate crimes increasing rather than declining,”

he said, citing recent attacks in Manchester and Brighton as stark reminders of the ongoing challenges He underscored the importance of community solidarity in responding to such incidents, praising local responses that highlighted resilience and compassion

The Prime Minister also drew parallels between anti-Muslim hostility and other forms of prejudice, stressing that attacks on any community are attacks on the nation itself In light of recent antisemitic attacks in Golders Green, he affirmed the government’s commitment to stand alongside all communities facing hate and division

Secretary of State for the Home Department, Shabana Mahmood, and the Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, were among the leading voices who took to the stage, addressing recent hate crime incidents and growing insensitivity towards the community

Symbolically, hosting the reception at Downing Street sent a clear message: British Muslims are not only welcomed but are central to the nation’s political and social life “It’s your right to tell us what you think, and it’s our responsibility to listen,” Starmer said By bringing community leaders into the heart of government, the Prime Minister sought to reinforce inclusion, participation, and representation

Starmer also took a moment to celebrate the positive contributions of British Muslims From healthcare to media, business to culture, their work enriches the fabric of the country “We don’t say enough about the positives,” he said, urging recognition of the myriad ways in which Muslim communities strengthen Britain

The atmosphere at Downing Street was one of warmth, pride, and shared purpose Guests admired the festive decorations and thoughtful touches, which, Starmer joked, should perhaps remain beyond just the evening of the reception Beyond the ceremony, the gathering represented a broader commitment to dialogue, understanding, and community cohesion in a period marked by social, political, and international pressures

As the reception concluded, the Prime Minister reflected on the significance of the event in the context of a multicultural Britain “Whether it’s the first time or the second time you ’ re here, enjoy the evening I’m proud to be standing alongside you, not just alongside you, but with you, ” he said, drawing applause from the assembled leaders

Amongst the notable faces at the event were Asma Khan restaurateur and owner of Darjeeling Express; Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting; and MPs Rushanara Ali and Jess Phillips

The reception served as more than a celebration of a religious festival It was a statement of solidarity and affirmation, a demonstration of inclusion amid rising tensions, and a reminder of the shared values that underpin British society In doing so, it offered both reassurance and inspiration to communities navigating the challenges of a complex, interconnected world

Reform UK leads latest YouGov

Th e latest Yo uGo v v oting in

New

n

erro r co m pared to YouGov’s prev ious p oll from 15–16 March

- Reform UK: 23% (-2)

- Labour: 19% (+2)

- Greens: 18% (-1)

- Conservatives: 17% (=)

- Liberal Democrats: 13% (-1)

The Liberal Democrats’

poll

13% represents a joint-low-

challenges for the party

While Reform UK maintains a slim lead, the figures indicate a highly competitive political landscape, with the top five parties separated by just ten percentage points

Analysts note that shifts of only a few points could significantly alter the balance in upcoming elections, highlighting the volatility of voter intentions in the current climate

Psychiatrist challenges racism narrative in mental health detentions

Mo r e th a n tw o d ec a de s after first voicing h is views, Prof S waran S ingh continues to challenge th e widely held belief that raci sm within the mental health system is th e primary reaso n fo r h i gh e r d et en ti o n ra te s among young black men

Singh, a consultant psychiatrist and professor at the University of Warwick, argues that the disparity is better explained by social and environmental risk fact o r s , i n c l u d i n g p o v e r t y , urban living, migration and substance use He said that while racism exists, there is no clear evidence that clinical bias is the main driver of these outcomes

H i s c o m m e n t s c o m e amid ongoing government efforts to reduce disproportionality under the Mental

H e a l t h A c t , w h i c h s h o w black people are significantly more likely to be detained or placed under community treatment orders

Singh said the current focus on race risks creating pressure on clinicians and obscuring deeper causes He pointed to the case of Valdo Calocane, whose treatment before the 2023 Nottingham

A

shows higher rates of psychosis among migrant and

such as trauma, exclusion and drug use These same

patients often enter the

in crisis

S

the

from India in 1991, said he has personally experienced racism but warned against attributing complex health inequalities solely to it Instead, he urged policymakers to address underlying social conditions and i

care

Government funding targets UK loneliness crisis

The UK gov ernment has launched a £31 9 m i lli o n ‘ P ri d e i n P lac e ’ i ni t ia ti v e to co m bat th e

Communities Secretary Steve Reed announced the funding package designed to restore pride by reimagining

Secretary of State for the Home Department, Shabana Mahmood interacting with a community member

Sir Keir Starmer addressing the community representatives at the reception

PM Starmer clicks a selfie with chef Asma Khan of Darjeeling Express

Continued from page 1

Mayor of London

Sir Sadiq Khan addressing the gathering

Prof Swaran Singh

THE MODERN SOUTH ASIAN WEDDING SAGA

South As ian weddings have always been vibrant, multiday celebrati ons where tradition meets festivity, and the ceremonial journey from mehndi to mandap is a s pectacle in itself

In recent years, these weddings have evolved dramatically, blending time-honoured customs with contemporary trends, giving modern couples the opportunity to celebrate their culture in ways that reflect their personalities, tastes, and global influences. Our feature, ‘Mehndi to Mandap’, explores this fascinating transformation, from bridal style to décor, rituals to entertainment, and every detail in between.

The first event in the wedding journey, the mehndi ceremony, has seen a remarkable evolution. Once a simple affair with floral décor and traditional designs, mehndi now embraces creativity and personalisation. Intricate, Instagram-worthy henna patterns, often inspired by architecture, nature, and even pop culture, are complemented by themed décor, mood lighting, and

customised bridal attire. Designers are blending traditional motifs with modern twists, ensuring the bride’s individuality shines while still paying homage to her heritage.

Bridal fashion itself has experienced a modern renaissance. While lehengas and sarees remain timeless staples, today’s brides are experimenting with colours, textures, and silhouettes, creating a balance between tradition and contemporary aesthetics. Celebrity weddings often set trends that trickle down to mainstream celebrations, influencing everything from pre-wedding events to reception looks. Alongside couture, brides are increasingly mindful of comfort and versatility, choosing ensembles that allow them to enjoy their celebrations without sacrificing elegance. Safety and security have become essential considerations, particularly for the safeguarding of gold, jewellery, and other valuables. Expert advice now focuses on discreet storage, professional

security services, and insurance to ensure peace of mind amid large-scale gatherings. This practical aspect reflects the modern bride and groom’s approach: celebrating opulence responsibly while prioritising safety.

Beyond attire and accessories, weddings today have become immersive experiences. Wedding stationery, for instance, has transformed into a reflection of the couple’s personality — from lasercut invites and calligraphy to personalised emojis and digital RSVP systems.

Décor, too, has moved from purely traditional to thematic and experiential, with floral installations, bespoke lighting, and curated spaces creating an unforgettable ambience. Destination weddings have surged in popularity, offering not only picturesque backdrops but also a chance to craft multi-day cultural experiences in exotic locales, from sun-kissed beaches to historic palaces. Entertainment remains a crucial part of the celebrations. From choreographed dance

performances to live bands and DJs, couples are blending contemporary music with classical Indian rhythms, ensuring guests are enthralled at every stage. Cakes, once a modest afterthought, have now become showpieces of design and flavour, often customised to tie in with the wedding theme. Every element, from mehndi to mandap, is an opportunity to celebrate love, heritage, and creativity.

Mehndi to Mandap captures this dynamic fusion of tradition and modernity, showcasing

how South Asian weddings have transformed into multi-sensory, meticulously curated experiences. Through articles on evolving design trends, bridal fashion, celebrity-inspired styles, décor innovations, security considerations, destination weddings, music, and culinary artistry, this feature provides both inspiration and guidance for couples planning their perfect celebration.

In a world where culture, style, and personal expression converge, South Asian weddings continue to evolve while staying deeply rooted in tradition. From the intricate mehndi patterns on a bride’s hands to the beautifully decorated mandap under which vows are exchanged, every detail tells a story of love, family, and the enduring joy of celebration.

Our 'Mehndi to Mandap' feature invites readers to explore this rich tapestry, offering a glimpse into the past, the present, and the exciting possibilities of the weddings of tomorrow.

BigFatWeddings andEvenBiggerDrama

Archana Kumar, Director & CEO, Mrs Kapoor’s Daughter’s Wedding Sout h Asia n we dd ing s are a sp ecta cle l ike no othe r Vibra nt, emot iona l, highener gy and unapo loge tica lly gra nd Alongside th e be au ty of the big f at Asian Wed ding a lso co mes t he dra ma

As a writer, director and choreographer, I’ve spent years bringing these stories to life,

from choreographing real weddings to creating immersive theatre experiences.

Over the past eight years, our

productions have been seen by over 100,000 audience members, including one of the UK’s biggest immersive South Asian wedding shows in the West End.

That journey has led to Mrs Kapoor’s Daughter’s Wedding, a theatre experience that places audiences right in the heart of a big fat Asian wedding. With live singing, high-energy dance, humour and interactive moments, it’s not just a show you watch, it’s a celebration you become part of.

Now, we return with the third daughter’s wedding, and this time, there’s a twist. Behind the laughter, the music and the traditions, something unexpected unfolds.

Secrets surface, tensions rise and suddenly… everyone becomes a suspect.

It’s everything you love about a South Asian wedding. The chaos, the characters, the emotion, but taken to a whole new level.

Because when the Kapoors throw a wedding, anything can happen!

Discover more at

Mrs Kapoor's Daughter's Wedding: www mkdw co uk

The journey of a self-made cake entrepreneur

Cakes have bec om e an e ssen tial part of li fe’s c elebrati on s, addin g sweetn ess a nd sy mbolis m to every speci al oc casi on

From birthdays and weddings to anniversaries and milestones, a cake often serves as the centrepiece that brings people together More than just a dessert, it represents joy, love and shared memories, marking moments that matter most Over time, cakes have evolved in both design and flavour, reflecting personal tastes and cultural trends, and continue to make every celebration feel complete and memorable

Among those who have turned this tradition into a remarkable success story is Kulwi nder Kumar, widely known as Mr Paul, a highly respected British entrepreneur and owner of the renowned bakery brand Kool Cakes (formerly Paul’s Bakers) His journey has been shaped by a strong partnership with his wife, Salinder Kaur, and a deep commitment to his family, including their three daughters, Jennyfer, Kiran and Priya A devoted family man and influential figure, he is widely respected among religious and political leaders in the UK

A true all-rounder, his bakery has won several accolades, including a place in the Guinn ess Book of World R ecords for the largest c ake s culpture in 2014 Kool Cakes was chosen to provide a 5-f oottall c ake for Celebri ty Bi g B rother for one of the tasks Kool Cak es als o had the honour to m ake an d gift a 'Royal' c ake to the Queen at Buck ingham

Palace d uri ng her Diam ond and Platinum Jubilee celeb rations

Beyond his business achievements, he is also a mentor, offering free cakedecorating training at his Heston shop, and a philanthropist dedicated to supporting the development of his ancestral village in India In recogniti on of his contrib uti on s, he rec eived the Asi an B us ines s Publi cations Ltd (AB PL) Politi cal & Public Life Award for I nnovation in Busi ness at the U K Parliame nt in 2 018

“B akin g bec ame m y c alling”

Reflecting on his journey to the UK, Kulwinder Kumar shared, “I arrived in 1983 and took on various jobs, including working in a hospital In 1989, I joined Air India at Heathrow Airport as a cargo agent, while also working part-time in a bakery That’s where I developed a strong interest in the cake business By 1990, I decided to pursue it seriously and enrolled in a private college to learn professionally I later

went to the United States, where I earned a diploma and a master’s degree in cake-making, covering everything from fresh cream and buttercream to novelty and wedding cakes After returning, I opened my first shop in 1993, then called Paul Baker, which I ran for 12 years before expanding to four outlets ”

Speaking about

his innovation in eggless cakes, he explained, “At the time, what people called ‘vegetarian’ cakes in the UK still contained eggs I wanted to create something truly egg-free, so I kept experimenting After many attempts, I finally perfected an eggless sponge recipe in 1994 ”

Rec ord-break ing ri se to royal rec ogn ition

Speaking about his royal connections and recordbreaking achievements, he said, “I ’ ve created c akes for the Hous es of Pa rli amen t and e ven for the B ig B rother s how , one of them meas ured 40 in ches by 40 in ches and s tood 5 feet tall In 2012, during the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, I approached Buckingham Palace because I wanted to present something that reflected what I had achieved since coming to this country The process took three to four months, including detailed security checks and interviews Eventually, I was approved by the Queen’s head chef, Mark Flanagan, and had the honour of presenting a cake to the Queen on behalf of the Asian community ”

“In 2014, I collaborated wi th Fairy Li quid to b reak the Gui nnes s World Rec ord for the largest cake Many believed it wasn’t possible, but w e crea te d a 10-m etre by 12 -m etre ca ke in under s even hours a t We stfield Shoppi ng Cen tre, serving around 12,000 slices for the Make-A-Wish charity Later, in 2022, I returned to Buckingham

Palace for the Platinum Jubilee

We also organised a large street celebration in Southall, complete with samosas, tea and Indian music Additionally, I personally contributed £27,000 to host a community event attended by MPs and religious leaders to mark the Queen’s 70year reign,” he added

B akin g succ ess with a heart f or charity

Highlighting his longstanding philanthropic work, Kulwinder said, “In my village, Johal in District Jalandhar, I’ve been involved in charity for the past 35 to 40 years I helped

donated it to the temple ”

Speaking about evolving trends in the cake industry, he noted, “The industry has grown immensely, no birthday or wedding feels complete without a cake now Tiered cakes are especially popular

Many couples want grand fiveor six-tier designs but also want to manage costs, so we use dummy tiers Only a small section is real cake for the cutting ceremony, while the rest is a decorative display that is later taken back ”

Offering advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, Kulwinder added, “I always say, start by

install a sewerage system, streetlights, and about 25 years ago, I built 10 toilets for women so they wouldn’t have to go out into the fields, especially during the rain More recently, there was a piece of land next to a temple needed for a langar hall The owners were asking for three times the market price, so I bought the land and

developing a skill or hobby, whether it’s art, design, plumbing or building Once you ’ ve mastered your craft, take the step to start your own business Begin small It’s not easy and requires hard work, but it’s far better than spending your life just working for others without growth ”

Community leaders and members present at the late Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee celebration in 2022

Kulwinder crafting a cake for the celebration

Former MP Virendra Sharma (middle) with Kulwinder Kumar in Southall for the late Queen Elizabeth Platinum Jubilee Celebration in 2022

Kulwinder with the iconic Diamond Jubilee Cake in 2012

Kulwinder giving the final touch to a life-sized Queen’s cake in honour of the Platinum Jubilee in 2022

Kulwinder Kumar, accompanied by his wife Salinder Kaur, accepts the Political & Public Life Award 2018 for Innovation in Business presented by Jonathan Ashworth MP

THE GREAT INDIAN WEDDING MASHUP

India’s wedding landscape shifts as couples mix traditions into bold, immersive celebrations.

From the backwaters of Kerala to the bustling streets of Chandigarh, couples

emotive and energetic rituals from every corner of the subcontinent to create a truly pan-Indian celebration This shift, heavily influenced by

turned private family

r i t e s i n

o g

a n d , inclusive festivals

The visual hallmarks of a Punjabi bride, specifically the Chooda and Kalire, h a v e n o w b e c o m e e s s e n t i a l f a s h i o n statements for brides in all of India alike

These crimson ban-

g l e s a n d t i n k l i n g

g o l d e n o r n a m e n t s , once exclusive markers of Sikh heritage, are now embraced by

women of all backgrounds

Similarly, the Baraat, the North Indian groom ’ s bois-

has marched its way into the

monies of South India and Bengal Today, a groom in Chennai is just as likely to arrive in a vintage convert-

thumping dhol troupe as he is to follow ancient Vedic protocols

have also seen a high-octane upgrade The Mehndi night, once a modest gathering, has been reimagined nationwide as a professional soirée fea-

games and so much more

Haldi ceremony is undergoing a striking transformation Inspired by the Bengali G

where tradition meets spectacle What was once an intimate, ritualistic affair is now a riot of colour and celebration, with flower petal showe

parties, and even Holi-style r

gulaal The line between cere m o

e e k moments that are as joyful

and immersive as they are visually captivating or traditionally momentous

T h i s

H a l d i

Welcome dinners and pre-wedding carnivals have emerged as grand curtain-raisers to the main festivities, setting the tone with themed décor, live entertainment, curated food experiences, and high-energy celebrations These events are no longer mere introductions, but s

designed to bring guests together while offering a preview of the wedding’s scale, style, and personality

Intriguingly, the cultural exchange is a two-way street The Kashi Yatra, a humorous Tamil Brahmin ritual where the groom playfully pretends to flee to the Himalayas to become a monk, is now being staged by North Indian families looking to inject a bit of theatrical comedy into their proceedings This fusion extends beyond national borders as well, with

cathedral-length veils merging seamlessly with traditional firecircling rites The Western tradition of the "Reception Toast" and the cutting of a cake, acts as the grand finale These speeches offer a rare moment of individual storytelling within the largerthan-life family framework By blending the emotional weight of a Western aisle walk

Indian wedding has become a beautiful, borderless symphony of joy

Gold, tradition, and risk in South Asian homes

For many South A sian fam ilies, g old represents m ore th

es history, h eritage, and em otional legacy

P a s s e d d o w n t h r o u g h generations or gifted during weddings and festivals, gold bangles, necklaces, and heirlooms often sit at the heart of the home Yet this c h e r i s h e d t r a d i t i o n has increasingly made c

I n d i a n , P a

a n i , Bangladeshi, and other

S o u t h A s i a n b a c kgrounds

S t o l e n i t e m s a r e n o t m e r e l y f i n a n c i a l losses; they often carry deep sentimental value Celebratio ns th at draw attentio n South Asian homes are v i b r a n t a n d w e l c o m i n g , with torans, flower garlands, rangoli patterns, and elabor a t e d e c o r a t i o n s f o r w e ddings and festivals such as Diwali or Eid While these traditions are beautiful and meaningful, they can also make homes more noticea b l e t o c r i m i n a l s

M odern security th reats

Burglaries are no longer l i m i t e d t o o p p o r t u n i s t i c t h i e v e s E v e n a f f l u e n t o r gated communities can be v u l n e r a b l e E x p e r i e n c e d criminals use sophisticated techniques such as tailgating behind residents with electronic passes, posing as

utility workers or delivery

p e r s o n n e l , a n d e x p l o i t i n g weak passwords or unprotected smart devices Ring cameras and video doorbells p r o v i d e s o m e p r o t e c t i o n , but they are only effective if properly secured and regularly updated

Adv ice fro m th e po lice

C e l e b r a t o r y d i s p l a y s a n d social media posts showing guests, gifts, or jewellery can i n a d v e r t e n t l y s i g n a l t h e

p r e s e n c e o f v a l u a b l e s , increasing the risk of targeted theft

UK police forces, including the Metropolitan Police, consistently stress practical m e a s u r e s t o r e d u c e r i s k Families are encouraged to k e e p h i g h - v a l u

l d i n bank safety deposit boxes

w h e n e v e r p o s s i b l e , r a t h e r than at home

Investing in a h i g h - q u

A S G O L D T H E F T

C O N C E R N S G R O W ,

families are choosing protection beyond the home

For many Asian families

across the UK, gold

jewellery is far more than decoration It represents sacrifice, celebration, security, and the quiet wealth built across generations

Wedding sets given with love, bangles preserved through decades of family milestones, and carefully accumulated savings in gold carry emotional meaning far beyond their monetary value.

Yet increasing reports of targeted jewellery theft are unsettling that sense of safety

Families describe homes being deliberately searched for gold collections, often after periods of observation What is taken is rarely recovered. Beyond the financial loss lies something deeper anxiety, emotional distress, and the painful realisation that cherished

heirlooms were never truly secure inside the home

In response, a quiet but meaningful shift is taking place

Rather than reacting after loss, many households are choosing to move jewellery and valuables into professional vault environments designed specifically to withstand organised criminal activity.

The importance of vault grade: Where peace of mind begins

While visible security measures can appear similar across facilities, true protection is defined by the strength and certification of the vault itself, the part clients never see yet ultimately depend upon Heathrow Safe Deposit operates from a Grade 10 certified vault, representing one of the highest levels of independently tested burglary resistance available This standard reflects exceptional structural integrity and a depth of protection designed to endure even the most

demanding circumstances

For clients, the significance is not technical but emotional The certification provides quiet reassurance that their valuables are protected within an environment engineered for exceptional strength, discretion, and reliability

It is this unseen strength that transforms security into genuine peace of mind, allowing families to step away from worry and trust that their most meaningful possessions are safeguarded at the highest level

A growing sense of urgency

Why home storage no longer feels enough

Alarms, cameras, and home safes offer reassurance, but they cannot fully remove risk particularly when criminals intentionally target properties believed to hold wedding jewellery or high-

purity gold

Burglary is often patient, calculated, and deeply intrusive Even well-secured homes can become vulnerable when valuables remain inside the very space criminals expect to find them

Families are increasingly recognising a simple truth: if some thi ng c annot be replaced, its protection s hould never rely s olely on residenti al s ecurity

A trusted environment built for

reassurance: Heathrow Safe Deposit

Serving families across London and the wider UK, Heath row Saf e D ep osit, located on Southall Broadway behind Pawan Jewellers with its discreet entrance on Oswald Road, has quietly become a place of reassurance for those seeking protection beyond what domestic storage can provide

Established in 2013, the facility has built trust through discretion, consistency, and a clear commitment to safeguarding clients’ most meaningful possessions

Protecting memory, not just jewellery

This understanding is why more families are no longer viewing vault storage as a luxury, but as thoughtful and responsible protection Rather than simply hoping valuables remain safe at home, families are choosing to place jewellery that represents years of sacrifice and celebration into environments designed specifically for its preservation

Clients often describe a quiet sense of relief once their valuables are secured the ability to enjoy special pieces when needed, without the constant background worry of keeping them at home More than security alone, the decision reflects care for what has been entrusted by previous generations and a desire to protect it for those yet to come

Private appointments now being booked

At the centre of this protection lies one of th e h ig hest r esistance-gr aded v au lt enviro nm ents certified in t he UK, purpose-built to provide defence far beyond conventional storage

Each locker operates on a du al -key system, with keys held solely by the client No spare or master keys exist, ensuring complete privacy and personal control

Vault access is secured through a m odern biometric entry system com bining tap card auth ent icat io n wit h f acial

r ecog nition, delivering both convenience and robust layered protection

New clients also benefit from £ 10,000 com pliment ary insurance f or the f irst year (terms apply), offering immediate reassurance when valuables are moved out of the home

For many families, the greatest benefit is emotional; the quiet comfort of knowing jewellery and heirlooms are protected in an environment specifically created for their preservation

How to find Heathrow Safe Deposit

Heathrow Safe Deposit is located on Southall Broadway behind Pawan Jewellers

The secure client entrance is on Oswald Road, not directly on the Broadway If visiting for the first time, simply come to Pawan Jewellers on Southall Broadway, and you will be guided to the private vault entrance on Oswald Road

If you are unsure when arriving, please call us and we will happily assist you Google Maps tip: search “Heathrow Safe Deposit Southall” or “Pawan Jewellers Southall Broadway” to reach the correct location

Because some things are too precious to risk

Protecting jewellery is ultimately about protecting legacy, ensuring that what one generation safeguarded can safely reach the next

For many families, securing their valuables within a professional vault is not driven by fear, but by foresight, responsibility, and the desire to live without constant concern

113 The

Southall

assistance

Many who have already secured their jewellery share the same reflection: they wish they had acted sooner

As gold values rise, jewellery collections become increasingly attractive to criminals The longer valuables remain inside the home, the longer families remain exposed to unnecessary risk Across the community, the shift is clear peace of mind is now being prioritised over convenience

Heathrow Safe Deposit operates strictly by appointment from its secure facility on Southall Broadway behind Pawan Jewellers, with the private entrance located on Oswald Road, ensuring discretion, controlled access, and personalised

Opening hours: 11:30 AM – 6:15 PM (by appointment only)

Availability can be limited during wedding seasons and periods of heightened security awareness, making early booking advisable

Pawan Jewellers Secure entrance on Oswald Road Established 2013 Trusted by families across London and beyond

g

Balancing tradition and innovation in wedding food

matters; the rituals, the celebrations, and of course, th e food T he culinary experience is not just about feeding g uests; it is about creating mom ents of joy, conversation, and connection

From carefully selected i n

presented dishes, every meal b

itself, reflecting the richness of the occasion and the love

p

matches the grandeur and joy of the wedding, making

unforgettable and special as the ceremony itself

Darshan Patel, Director of S hayo na C aterers, said, “Shayona has been around for about 35 years, if not longer The main goal was to provide sattvic food At that time, there were very few options for clean, pure

s

behind starting this catering service was to offer wholesome, sattvic meals for religious and ceremonial functions, whether it’s a wedding, a housewarming, or any other special occasion ”

He added, “What began as a volunteer-based initiative eventually evolved into a professional setup Over the years, we ’ ve updated our menu and presentation to

tastes, appealing to the

tions while staying true to our roots ”

On the philosophy guiding their approach to hospi-

explained, “For us, it’s about creating an emotional con-

throughout the entire event W

often include multiple preevents, and we ensure our presence and support across all of them At the same time, we honour tradition Typically, pure food served during wedding ceremonies is prepared without onion and garlic Even guests who

appropriate for Hindu

central to our approach

Darshan noted, “In the early days, sourcing pure ingredients was very challenging Even today, we grind and prepare our own masalas to ensure nothing non-sattvic enters our food Everything on-site is strictly onion- and garlic-free, and these ingredients are never handled in our facilities While ingredi-

continue to make our own garam and chaat masalas in-

authentic flavours we aim for ” “Ev ery m enu reflects the couple’ s personality”

Darshan emphasised the significant role food plays in shaping the overall wedding experience “It’s often the one thing guests remember from a function, the quality of the food and the service

sion,” he said

Discussing the balance between tradition and innovation, he noted, “Wedding

more ‘fun food’ over recent

which were uncommon 30 years ago, are now standard We also add Western twists, dishes like ‘mock’ curries,

bhara kababs have become very popular, while ensuring that authentic masalas and

within these contemporary formats We have over time also innovated matho/shrikh

Rajbhog, Cookies and cream

of cooking with-

“Onion and garlic are powerful flavours that dominate

a d i s h T h o s e u n f a m i l i a r with cooking without them often struggle to bring out t h e o t h e r f l a v o u r s F o r instance, with chhole, we s o m e t i m e s u s e a c a s h e wbased gravy to add richness

a n d c r e a m i n e s s C a s h e w nuts have a natural, creamy t e x t u r e , w

p t h o f f l a v o u r w i t h o u t m i s s i n g onion or garlic, empowering the other spices to shine ” O n c o l l a b o r a t i n g w i t h couples to create wedding menus, Darshan said, “We f o c u s o n b e s p o k e , ‘ f u n ’ menus that reflect each coup

tomise a menu unique to their celebration ” H e a l s o h i g h l i g h t e d

emerging trends in modern weddings: “There’s a growi n g e m p h a s i s o n h e a l t h y f o o d I n s t e a d o f a b a s i c salad, couples now opt for quinoa or protein-rich salads Meat alternatives like tofu or soya-based curries are also becoming increasi

guests

Behind th

fect w ed ding

Discussing the preparat i

aspect is expertly managed For a large wedding, a guest may interact with just one front-of-house coordinator, while five other leads handle the event quietly behind the scenes ”

“We also offer packages

events of

to

people in

Restaurant team, becoming a one stop service providing and removing the hassle and stress of having to juggle multiple clients ” Comparing destination weddings to local events, he

dings are more challenging, especially when maintain-

i g n a t u r e m o c k t a i l

h e bride or groom, or favourite fruits may become the base f o r

Likewise, if a guest loves p o t a t o e s , w e i n c o r p o r a t e them thoughtfully into their menu We don’t provide set menus; every menu is crafted in consultation with the couple, offering suggestions and options so they can cus-

varies from wedding to wedding Every event is unique, w

setups, and on-site facilities O

refined a streamlined process so that what guests see front-of-house is seamless and well-organised Behind the scenes, we have dedicated leads for each segment; crockery, cooking, logistics, and service, ensuring every

Flavors in Europe We often bring our own ingredients or import them from India For instance, at a wedding in Santorini last year, most ingredients and our blended m

d from the UK and India to ensure guests enjoyed the same quality experience as they would in London, just in a stunning setting ”

Dance, energy and celebration with Jay Kumar

Jay Kumar is a ch oreograp her and dance entertainer known for h is engaging and interactive style that encourages audiences of all ages to participate Using a h eadm ic and a strong stag e p resence, he ensures dances are easy to follow and inclusive

B

He leads a talented team of

alongside his interactive sessions

With over 25 years of experience, Jay Kumar and his team have consistently created fun and memorable experiences for diverse audiences He spoke to Asian Voice about his services provided for w

d d i n g s , a

h more

1What specific services do you provide for weddings?

My interactive dance sessions create vibrant energy and joyful smiles, making them a perfect fit for informal pre-wedding celebrations like sangeet, mehndi and h a

A

i a l weddings, my sessions help break d o w n b a r r i e r s , a s m a n y n o nIndians enjoy learning a few dance moves and are often the first to join in Along with my DanceAsia team, I bring a touch of Bollywood magic to wedding receptions and pre-wedding events through lively performances

I also specialise in choreography for family and group dances, as well as the bride and groom ’ s first dance One memorable experience was working on an episode of BBC’s ‘Don’t Tell The Bride’, where I taught the groom and his

group dance for a surprise wedding at Brighton Pavilion In addition, I work as a stage host and MC, helping to smoothly manage different parts of the celebration so families can relax and enjoy the event

A l o n g

I offer colourful décor for pre-wedd i n g f u n c t i

experiences, including dance sessions and costumes for a final performance I also collaborate with DJs, dhol drummers and other entertainers, allowing me to deliver a complete, one-stop solution for wedding entertainment

2What makes your international wedding services unique?

I have been fortunate to be able to provide my dance services g l o b a

USA, Thailand, Dubai and India (Jaipur, Mumbai, Delhi)

F

Weddings, I have taught Group dances in the UK to a core set of p e

l touches at the Wedding destination once others have joined This

approach helps build confidence across the entire group With the

Interactive dance sessions at the events makes it even better value and worthwhile

3What awards or accolades have you earned throughout your career?

I

honoured to receive recognition through numerous awards over the years including the following three prestigious accolades:

Humanitarian Services Over 15 years, I have supported numerous L

teams, in particular at the Annual Senior Citizens Party for over 800 Seniors and the Annual Christmas Party for disadvantaged Children 4Where else do you provide your entertainment services?

I provide entertainment ser-

events, including corporate functions and team-building days, golf club events, Bollywood-themed

British Empire Medal (BEM)

Community in Greater Londonan Honour from the Late Queen Elizabeth II in June 2022 in her last Birthday Honours List P

Bhangra Awards 2025 - recognition of being a pioneer in introducing interactive Bhangra and B

Entertainment for Events over 20 years ago, awarded in December 2025 Melvin Jones Fellow Award

parties such as charity fundraisers and birthdays, as well as school Bollywood nights I am also regularly involved in cultural celebrations like Diwali, Holi and community events

I have also hosted Bollywood Nights for over 20 years, including my long-running events at Venue 5 in Eastcote, North West London, and more recently, Disco Deewane Bollywood boat parties

since 2023 In addition, I conduct workshops for schools, corporate groups and community organisations I also perform at festivals and melas, including the London Mela for 15 years and as a headline act at the Ipswich Mela for several years

5Can you share some standout moments or highlights from your journey?

Some of my most memorable

Nutkhut’s “Indian Wedding”

trained

community dancers to perform as wedding guests along the Central London route, including The Mall and in front of Buckingham Palace

In January 2023, I trained 25 community dancers for the New

appeared on The Paul O’Grady Show on Channel

Darshan Patel

The return of the big, bold Indian wedding

S croll throu gh yo ur social media feed and you’ll feel it instantly, the quiet era of muted tones and ‘ sad beige’ m inimalism is fading into the backg rou nd

In its place comes a surge of

o

u n a p o

drama, and high-impact styling

The Indian wedding scene in 2026 isn’t just evolving; it’s staging a full-scale renaissance After years of restraint, the ‘Big Fat Indian

W

d

throne, louder, richer, and more expressive than ever

This is not just fashion; it’s theatre It’s heritage reimagined

w

every outfit, every jewel, every detail tells a story designed to be seen, remembered, and felt

The return of the radiant bride

Soft pastels may have had their moment, but the spotlight

colours red, rust orange, green

fierce and unapologetic shades t

moment they enter

formed into something almost

structured corset cholis replacing traditional blouses, sculpting the body with sharp, architectural

modern tailoring with age-old

intricate zardozi, mirror work, and hand embroidery that glimmers with every movement

The dou ble

dupatta simply doesn’t suffice The double dupatta has evolved from a styling choice into a statement of grandeur and a layered narrative of texture, weight, and movement

A richly embellished dupatta is

draped across the body, showcasing meticulous karigari, while a second, lighter veil floats effortlessly over the head Crafted in sheer net or tissue, it creates a cinematic trail, framing the bride in motion like a scene from an epic period film

M aximalist jew ellery on th e rise

e necklace, this year belongs to the wrist The shift is bold and deliberate, from stacks of delicate bangles to singular, statement-making cuffs that anchor the entire look

T

they’re centrepieces Wide, textured cuffs studded with rubies,

ensemble Necklaces follow a new

r

intention Heavy Polki chokers meet cascading Rani Haars, layered with precision rather than

clutter M

has returned with renewed drama: wider, bolder, often multi-layered, f r a m i n g t h e f a c

w

t h s t r i k

n

i n t e n s i t y P a i r e d w i t h o v e r s i z e d chandbalis or jhumkas, the effect is theatrical, commanding, unforgettable

Mod ular co uture and storytelling henna

Today’s bride is as strategic as she is stylish Modular couture has

e m e r g e d a s a q u i e t r e v o l u t i o n , a l l o w i n g o u t f i t s t o t r a n s f o r m s e

Detachable capes, dramatic trails, a n d l

moments of reveal shifting from

onds

Even henna has become a canv

designs now weave deeply personal narratives into intricate patterns, from city skylines to beloved pets h

Swarovski crystals

The maxim alist hald i

No longer a subdued pre-wedding ritual, for Haldi styling, florals take centre stage but not in their simplest form Brides are adorned in elaborate flower jewellery that borders on wearable art: cascading necklaces, oversized earrings, and s t

d entirely from blooms Layered into this is a distinct bohemian edge: shell jewellery, cowrie accents, and beach-inspired textures are mak-

with traditional yellow palettes

A new era for the groom

The modern groom is stepping into the spotlight with quiet confidence, reinterpreting the grandeur of the Maharaja through a refined, contemporary lens Clean, tailored sherwanis become the canvas for statement jewellery, layered pearls, emerald beads, and striking Polki brooches that add depth without excess

While daylight ceremonies still favour soft, neo-neutral tones like mint and sage, evening looks are e m b r a c i n g m o o d i e r , r i c h e r palettes Jewel tones and plush velvet bandh galas introduce texture and drama, ensuring the groom stands not in the background, but firmly beside the bride in presence and style

A signature fragrance of forever

Scent has a qu iet mag ic that no o ther sense can rival

One familiar note can unlock a memory in an instant, the sweetness of childhood treats, the salt of a distant shoreline, the warmth of a moment you thought you’d forgotten It’s this deep emotional pull that has given rise to scentscaping, a growing wedding trend that transforms fragrance into memory ’ s most powerful storyteller

By weaving a signature scent through your celebration, you don’t just decorate a space, you create a feeling that lingers long after the day is over And its beauty isn’t yours alone A carefully chosen fragrance becomes part of the atmosphere your guests step into, shaping how they experience each moment A soft floral whisper during the ceremony, a richer, warmer note at the reception, these subtle layers elevate the mood, turning your wedding into something immersive and unforgettable

Imagine, years later, catching a fleeting scent in the air and suddenly you ’ re back there The vows The music The laughter The joy That’s the power of scentscaping: it doesn’t just define your wedding day, it preserves it

Ways to infu se fragrance into your w ed ding

Scented inv itations

Offer a delicate preview of your celebration by lightly fragrancing your invitations It’s a refined, sensory hint of what’s to come; just enough to intrigue, never overwhelm Diffusers and roo m sprays

Much like luxury hotels and boutiques, you can craft a signature ambience with discreet diffusers placed at entrances, lounges, or restrooms A gentle room spray in the bridal suite adds a personal, calming touch before the

festivities begin A fragrance bar with aromatic keepsakes Turn scent into an experience A fragrance bar allows guests to blend their own custom perfumes a playful, memorable alternative to traditional wedding favours that feels both personal and indulgent

Send your guests home with that lingering memory; they’re moments bottled, ready to be relived with every use

A Sig natu re Scent to Remember Forev er

Perhaps the most meaningful touch of all is choosing a signature fragrance for your wedding, a scent that captures your day beyond what the eye can see

Imagine the quiet thrill of wearing a brand-new perfume on your wedding morning, thoughtfully chosen to reflect your story

Many couples now even create bespoke blends, crafting something truly their own Long after the celebrations end, that same fragrance can be worn on anniversaries and date nights, instantly bringing those memories back to life

Paired with a beautifully personalised bottle, engraved with your initials and wedding date, it becomes not just a scent, but a timeless keepsake

I

KoruMar Ephesus, a vibrant destination choice for Indian weddings

KoruMar Ephesus Beach & S pa Resort in Kusadasi/T ürkiye has becom e a to p d estination for w ed ding for Indian couples, especially those liv ing in th e U K

Everyone knows traditional Indian weddings feature vibrant rituals over a few days

a n d

Baraat, the main ceremony and more, and KoruMar Ephesus Resort can fit in all

With its long sandy beach, big pools, lush gardens, breathtaking sea views, luxurious f

Indian food and professional team, the 5-star resort can perfectly host vibrant, multi-day Indian celebrations, blending Aegean Vibe with the joy of Hindu traditions The resort’s beachfront is ideal for Dhol performances

The hotel has welcomed several highprofile events, including epic ceremonies, highlighting different traditions and colourful rituals Guests can enjoy customised

friendly), ultra all-inclusive comfort The

and experienced management and proximity to Ephesus Ancient City makes it memorable for all guests

Whether grand or intimate, KoruMar Ephesus can transform your big fat Indian wedding into an unforgettable seaside story, through unforgettable romance, profession and hospitality V isit www korum arep hesu

com

to plan your dream Indian destination wed ding!

Gen Z couples redefine wedding trends

N earl y a quarter o f co upl es married l ast year w ere Ge n Z , w h o ar e rede finin g w edding trends , ac cording to Hitch ed’s Real W edding Study

They are 38% more likely to host engagement parties and 33% more likely to have prew e d d i n g p h o t o s h o o

ations Gen Z also values heritage, with 16% i n c o r p o r a t i n g t r a d i t

ments, and they are driving the modern minimalist trend, with 24% choosing this style Countryside venues are increasingly popular, with barns and farms leading at 20%, followed by hotels (17%) and country houses/manors (17%)

Over a third (36%) of couples embrace DIY projects to add personal touches, while 20% receive support from family, either financially or with preparations

Couples spend an average of 15 months planning their wedding, with 57% taking a year or more Wedding websites lead as the top r

(60%), word of mouth (39%), and wedding fairs (36%) Guest experience is the top priority (76%), followed by personalisation (73%) and food and drinks (63%) Honeymoons average £4,422, with a third spending over £5,000 Europe is the most popular destination (56%), the UK (14%), with beach holidays (43%), city breaks (34%), and luxury escapes (36%) in demand The minimoon trend is rising, with 43% choosing a shorter break

“The wedding industry remains resilient,” said Chloe Lansdowne, Head of Consumer Marketing (UK) at Hitched co uk “Couples are combining creativity and innovation to design celebrations that reflect their values and style ”

Dream wedding destinations around the world

Wedd ing s in South A sian culture are grand, vibrant, and d eeply roo ted in trad ition, often reflecting centuries-old customs, family values, and cultural richness

F r o m m u l t i - d a y c e l e b r a t i o n s t h a t

include ceremonies like mehendi, sangeet, haldi, and the wedding itself, to elaborate décor, traditional attire, music, and large guest lists, every detail is thoughtfully curated to create a memorable and meaningful experience These weddings are not just about the couple, but about bringing families and communities together in celebration

Today, couples are increasingly blending tradition with travel, opting for breathtaking destinations across the globe that can seamlessly accommodate both cultural rituals and modern luxury

India

India remains one of the most soughtafter destinations for weddings, especially for South Asians looking to celebrate their traditions in an authentic and culturally rich setting With its diverse landscapes, heritage architecture, and world-class hospitality, the country offers a wide range of options, from regal palaces to serene beaches and vibrant cultural hubs

Cities like Udaipur and Jaipur are synonymous with royal weddings Udaipur’s lakeside palaces and luxury heritage hotels provide a dreamy, opulent backdrop, while Jaipur’s grand forts and historic venues add a majestic charm to traditional ceremonies Goa, on the other hand, is perfect for couples seeking a more relaxed and contemporary

pheras

Gujarat is also emerging as a unique wedding destination Cities like Ahmedabad and Vadodara offer luxurious venues, her-

options rooted in traditional Gujarati cuisine Coastal destinations like Diu add a scenic charm for intimate celebrations

UAE

The United Arab Emirates, especially Dubai and Abu Dhabi, has become a hotspot for South Asian weddings With world-class hotels, easy visa access, and expertise in hosting large-scale Indian weddings, the UAE offers opulence without compromising on cultural needs; be it mandaps, halal catering, or Bollywood-style celebrations

T hailand

Thailand is a favourite among South Asian couples for its affordability and scenic beauty Destinations like Phuket and Krabi offer stunning beaches and luxury resorts that are well-versed in Indian wedding customs

Bali

Bali has emerged as a popular destination for intimate yet luxurious weddings

Known for its serene temples, lush greenery, and private villas, Bali provides a peaceful and picturesque setting

Italy

Italy is gaining popularity among South Asian couples for its romantic landscapes Locations like Lake Como and Tuscany offer dreamy backdrops for intimate weddings

While guest lists may be smaller, the experience is unmatched in beauty and exclusivity

Essential pre-wedding care tips

every bride should follow

Every bride dream of looking

radiant on h er wed ding day, bu t

true beauty g oes beyond makeup and outfits; it comes from with in

Achieving that natural, healthy glow requires thoughtful preparation, consistency, and selfcare well before the big day A balanced approach that focuses on skincare, nutrition, fitness, and mental well-being can make all the difference

Start with a skincare routine

A consistent skincare routine is key to achieving clear and glowing skin Begin at least 3–6 months before the wedding to allow your skin time to respond Cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturising should be part of your daily regimen

Regular facials can help maintain skin health, but avoid trying new treatments too close to the wedding to prevent unexpected reactions

Always use sunscreen to protect your skin and maintain an even tone

Nou rish your bod y from within

Healthy skin reflects a healthy body Incorporate a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains Foods high in antioxidants and vitamins; like berries, spinach, and almonds help improve skin texture and radiance

Staying hydrated is equally important; drinking plenty of water

helps flush out toxins and keeps your skin looking fresh and plump

Stay activ e and fit

Regular exercise not only helps you stay in shape but also improves blood circulation, giving your skin a natural glow Activities like yoga, walking, or light workouts can reduce stress and enhance overall well-being Yoga and meditation, in particular, are beneficial for calming the mind and maintaining emotional balance during the often-hectic wedding preparations

Prioritise hair care

Your hair is an essential part of your bridal look Regular oiling, conditioning, and minimal use of heat styling tools can keep your hair healthy and shiny Consider natural treatments or professional spa sessions to strengthen your hair and prevent damage Like skincare, start

early to see noticeable results

Get you r beauty sleep

Sleep is one of the most underrated beauty tools Aim for 7-8 hours of restful sleep each night to allow your body to repair and rejuvenate Proper sleep reduces dark circles, improves skin texture, and boosts overall energy levels, ensuring you look fresh and well-rested

Focus on mental wellness

Wedding planning can be overwhelming, so it’s important to take time for yourself Adequate sleep, mindfulness practices, and short breaks from planning can help reduce stress and keep you feeling refreshed A calm and happy mind reflects in your overall appearance, adding to your natural glow P lan your bridal trials

Schedule makeup and hair trials well in advance to finalise your wedding-day look This helps avoid last-minute confusion and ensures that your look complements your outfit, jewellery, and personal style It also gives you time to make adjustments if needed

A void last-m inute exp eriments While it may be tempting to try new beauty treatments or products, it’s best to stick to what works for you Last-minute changes can lead to skin irritation or breakouts

Stunning hairstyles in South Asian weddings

South As ian wed ding s are vib ran t ce leb ration s f illed wi th colour, tradi tion, and elab orate f ashi on

One of the most important elements of the bridal and bridesmaid look is the hairstyle, which not only c

but also enhances overall elegance Here’s a guide to

bridesmaids during South Asian weddings

1 C lass ic b un with f lora l acces sori es

A sleek, low or high bun remains timeless for South Asian brides Adorn it with fresh flowers, like jasmine or roses, or traditional hair

tikka or passa This style

through long ceremonies while offering a regal look that pairs beautifully with sarees or lehengas

2 Brai ded s tyles

Braids are versatile and can range from traditional to modern A fishtail braid or a voluminous side braid can be adorned with flowers, beads, or delicate hair chains Braided buns are a

maids, giving a polished yet playful appearance suitable f o

events

3 Ha lf-up, half -dow n For brides who want to show off their long hair while keeping it manageable, a half-up, half-down style is perfect This style can include curls, twists, or braids on the top portion, while the rest of the hair

but not overly formal 4 Loos

or

and

hairpins, crystals, or floral clips can elevate this look Loose curls work well with

compete with the outfit

5 Tra diti on al South A

b raid ed b un (Jooda )

Many brides opt for a traditional jooda, a braided bun decorated with gold or

heavier wedding attire, like lehengas or shararas, and is

main wedding ceremony It combines cultural authenticity with timeless beauty

Handmade wedding gifting takes centre stage

Wedding gifting is an integral p a rt o f I nd i an ce leb rati o ns , s y m bo l is i ng l o v e, g r ati tu d e and tradition T oday, couples

a re i n cr eas i ng ly o p t in g f o r

m ean i ng f u l, p ra c ti ca l an d

h andm ad e gifts that stand out

O ne s u c h e ntr ep re ne u r i s M ina T hakkar, co -fo und er of C h am a k- A rt N C r af t an d

D ec o r, w h o c reat es un iq u e, h andcrafted pieces by working d irectly w ith artisans

Mina said the idea for her business came during a trip to

I n d i a a m i d t h e C o v i d l o c kdown “I had time to observe things and the more I spoke to artisans, the more I realised they had no way to earn, ” she shared Motivated to help, she added, “I thought, if I don’t do it now, when will I?” By cutting out middlemen, “agents were taking up to 60%” and paying artisans upfront, she built a model focused on quality and fair pay, leading to the creation of Chamak

O n w e d d i n g p r o d u c t s , M i n a s a i d , “ w e h a v e e v e r yt h i n g a n A - Z o f w e d

items,” from traditional dabbas and puja kits to modern t

M a n y c l i e n

s c o m e w i t h a priest’s list and prefer sourcing everything in one place

S h e e m p h a s i s e d q u a l i t y and practicality: “people want q u a l i t y t h e y d o n ’ t w a n t s o m e t h i n g t h a t h a s t o b e

Mina Thakkar

replaced,” offering both pre-

m i u m a n d b u d g e t o p t i o n s

Mina also guides customers on presentation, adding, “if they bring their outfits, we can try different trays and see what works best ” Sharing advice for couples, M i n a s t r e s s e d t h e n e e d f o r realistic budgeting and practicality “You need to set a proper budget for gifting,” she said, noting that many underestimate costs and end up skipping gifts “It’s a small gesture, so be practical,” she added, e n c o u r a g i n g a b a l a n c e between quality and affordability

She also highlighted a shift away from traditional gifting “People want something usef

explained, pointing to items like handmade mobile stands Mina further suggested think-

options instead of traditional sweets?”

LOVE BEYOND PRESENCE

Wed d ing s h av e always been ab out u nion, not j ust of two people, bu t of families, h istories, and memories Yet for many cou ples, these jo yous occas i o ns a re al so m ar ked by a qu i et absence: a parent, grandparent, sibling, or d ear friend who should have been there

However, a deeply moving shift is taking place across weddings, as couples find meaningful, creative ways to include loved ones who are no longer physically present Rather than allowing absence to linger unspoken, modern weddings are choosing remembrance; weaving memory into the ceremony itself with gestures that are both intim

emotional

Walking do wn the aisle, togeth er

any wedding is the walk

d

Increasingly, brides and grooms are choosing to share this moment symbolically with those they have lost Some attach small portraits or engrave names to their veils, sherwanis and kaleeras

Others walk while holding a parent’s picture close to their heart, creating a quiet yet deeply visible tribute It is a simple gesture, but one that transforms the aisle into a space of both love and remembrance

Reserv ed seats, eternal presence

Another touching tradition gaining popularity is the idea of reserving a seat for a loved one who is no longer there A chair in the front row, often

adorned with flowers, a framed photograph, or a

symbol of absence and inclusion at once

this further by creating dedicated memory corn

t f u l l y designed spaces displaying portraits, heirlooms, or personal items that tell the story of those

These corners often become quiet pauses within the celebration, where guests gather, reflect, and remember

Rather than casting a shadow over the day, these gestures add depth, reminding everyone present that love does not end, it simply changes form Th e rise of memory art

Perhaps the most emotionally resonant trend is the growing popularity o

increasingly being gifted, or commiss

include loved ones who have passed a w

s

y blend past and present, imagining moments that could never physically happen, yet feel entirely real

F

tographs to hand-painted canvases, these pieces often depict a late parent standing beside the couple, a grandparent blessing the union, or a cheri

group portraits The effect is striking: not surreal, but comforting

Live wedding painting has also taken on a new dimension Artists present at the ceremony are being asked to incorporate departed loved ones into the scene in real time, subtly placing them within the mandap or b

painting come to life becomes an emotional experience in itself, often bringing both tears and solace A celebration th at holds ev erything

W

s o powerful is their honesty Weddings are no longer expected to be purely joyful or picture-perfect Instead, they are becoming spaces that hold the full spectrum of human emotion: love, n

existing together

By including those who are no longer physically present, couples are reclaiming the narrative of what a wedding can be It is no longer just about who is in the room, but about everyone who shaped the journey to that moment

I

, c o u p l e s aren’t dwelling on loss, they are celebrating a love that continues, quietly and enduringly, in every step they take forward together

Weddings in the AI era

Ha v e y o u n ot ic e d so m e t h i n g d if fe r e n t about y our re ce nt we dding in vites? Is the re a Q R code tha t se ems t o k now y our d ie ta ry requireme nt s before you'v e e ven se le ct ed y o ur s t a r t e r ? A r e y o u su d d e n l y be i n g followe d on Instag ram by a we dding bot asking if you ’ v e book ed y our hote l room yet ?

Don’t panic, you haven’t entered a sci-fi movie It’s 2026, and the traditional big fat Indian wedding has officially gone hightech For decades, the standard wedding checklist involved a manic army of aunties, a chaotic colour-coded spreadsheet, and a prayer that the Dhol players arrived on time But today, the most essential member of the bridal party isn’t a human, it’s AI

This digital revolution isn’t just about gimmicks, it is fundamentally reshaping how couples plan, experience, and preserve the memories of their big day From the first RSVP to the final slice of digital cake, t e c h n o l o g y i s t h e i n v i s i b l e p l a n n e r managing the chaos with a calmness no human could muster If you are still relying on a binder of paper contracts, you are officially so 2024

The a lgor it hmic we dding p lan ne r

T h e s t r e s s o f t h e s e a t i

officially a relic of the past AI-powered software now acts as a social matchmaker, analysing guest data, such as professional backgrounds, mutual interests, and age to suggest seating arrangements where the

conversation is guaranteed to sparkle

Upload your dream Pinterest board, and the

flowers or décor, keeping your aesthetic high and your costs manageable

Augmen te d Rea lit y an d remot e joy

Why guess how your Mandap will look when you can virtually walk through it?

Augmented Reality (AR) ‘try-before-youbuy’ walkthroughs allow couples to virtually layer their chosen floral arrangements and lighting schemes onto a 3D scan of their actual venue months in advance

Tech is also solving the heartbreak of faraway relatives While standard Zoom calls are out, Virtual Reality (VR) Avatar

Lounges are in Grandparents who cannot travel can don a headset and sit at a physical table via a 360-degree camera, interacting with guests in real-time as if they were actually in the room

Lig hts, camer a an d AI action

The entertainment landscape has been completely digitised Standard drones have been replaced by agile FPV (First-Person V

guests to create a single, continuous moviestyle shot that is Reel-ready instantly

Facial recognition technology has also solved the post-wedding photo wait AI tools scan every professional photograph and instantly send personalised links to guests featuring only the photos they are in, often before the reception is even over

For a truly sci-fi touch, Holographic

Tributes allow couples to feature 3D digital performances of traditional dance troupes or even include life-sized digital honours for ancestors who are present only in spirit

The celebrity revolution of Indian weddings

It starts with a s cro ll A glimpse of a veil trailing endlessly behind a bride, a flash of i vory ins tead o f red, a p air o f sne akers p eeking beneath c outure And j ust like that, y o u r wed di n g m o o d bo ar d b eg i ns

unravel, inspired by your favo urite stars

Celebrity weddings have never been just moments, but cultural resets They don’t merely inspire Indian weddings; they dictate them Each look, each ritual, each detail is dissected, replicated, and reimagined across thousands of ceremonies that follow

T

longer built in isolation It is shaped in real time by the choices of women and men in the spotlight t,urning private celebrations i

witnessing is not just influence, but a fullscale aesthetic takeover

for organza and tissue sarees has come to define the

luxury

mehendi and

old money ” bridal aesthetic,

statement diamond ring, striking a perfect balance between tradition and modernity Th

Ivory and Soft Glamour

Years before the pastel bride became a

h a r m a q u i e t l y planted the seed Her soft, blush-toned wedding look hinted at a gentler, more romantic palette In the years that followed, trends changed and bridal fashion surged b a c k t o i t s c o m f o r t z o n e o f b o l d , commanding reds

And then came Alia Bhatt With a single ivory Sabyasachi saree, she didn’t just revisit the pastel conversation, she transformed it What was once subtle became definitive Overnight, bridal codes shifted, ushering in a n e r a o f “ m i n i m a l i s t r o y a l t y , ” w h e r e whisper-soft hues, intricate craftsmanship, and quiet elegance spoke far louder than colour ever could

That softness extended to beauty Rakul

Preet Singh leaned into the ‘ aura makeup’ trend, championing luminous, freckled skin over heavy coverage, while Parineeti Chopra rejected the structured bridal bun for loose, romantic hair, a shift that has since defined the “main character bride ” Dramatic maxi malism

I f m i n i m a l i s m f o u n d i t s m u s e , maximalism found its icons

Katrina Kaif delivered a masterclass in l a y e r e d b r i d a l s t o r y t e l l i n g , w i t h e a c h function embracing rich textiles and bold

P u n j a b i s i l h o u e t t e s M e a n w h i l e , S o b

antique gold, heritage jewellery, and deeply rooted cultural textures

Rashmika Mandanna added her own chapter, embracing a rust-hued saree with temple motifs, proving that bold colour and h e r i t a g e s y m b o l i s m c

h modern styling Sou th ern mi nimalism and qu iet luxury

At the other end of the spectrum lies a quieter, deeply rooted elegance, one shaped by icons like Aditi Rao Hydari Her affinity

is no longer ornamental; it is narrative

Th e sneaker bride Comfort entered the conversation when Deepika Padukone casually swapped heels

moment that quietly dismantled years of bridal rigidity Rakul Preet Singh, Hansika

embroidered sneakers that blend seamlessly into couture looks What was once rebellion is now trend

M en, jewellery, and th e m odern maharaja

The celebrity effect is just as powerful on the groom ’

side

V

styling by layering pearls and emeralds over muted sherwanis, while Vijay Deverakonda leaned fully into regal Hyderabad aesthetics, embracing temple jewellery and traditional adornments with unapologetic flair

And then there is Ranveer Singh, who continues to push boundaries, championing g

jewellery is no longer confined to the bride

Reimagining ritu als

Perhaps the most meaningful influence celebrities have had is not in what weddings look like, but in what they mean

Katrina Kaif quietly challenged tradition by having her sisters carry the phoolon ki c

ceremony itself, opting for a female priest and a consciously sustainable wedding

These are not just aesthetic choices They are signals of a deeper shift, where weddings become reflections of personal values rather than inherited rules

Vijay Devarkonda in maximalist jewellery for his wedding look

Rashmika Mandana ditches lehnga for a traditional bridal look

Aditi Rao Hydari’s minimalistic royal wedding look

Katrina Kaif on her wedding day

Priyanka Chopra Jonas long veil elevated her wedding look Rakulpreet Singh flaunts her sneakers on her Sangeet night

Dear

Financial Voice Reader, Alpesh Patel OBE

How to Pick S tocks Like an Institution, No t a Gambler

The Iran war is making more investors behave like traders Instead of holding quality companies they either panic sell quality companies or panic sell poor quality companies Either way, they are going to be spending a lot of time to be wrong footed

Most private investors are gamblers They just don't know it yet They read a tip in a newspaper, watch a talking head on CNBC, or buy a stock because their brotherin-law swears by it Then they call themselves investors They are not They are punters with a brokerage account Institutions don't work like that Goldman Sachs doesn't run a portfolio on vibes Pension funds managing your retirement don't pick stocks because the CEO gave a confident interview They use numbers Specific ones And they apply them systematically, every single time, without exception

The metrics that separate professionals from amateurs are not secret The Sortino ratio tells you how much return you're getting for the downside risk you're actually taking, not just general volatility CROCI, developed inside Deutsche Bank, strips away accounting distortions to show you the real cash return a business generates on its capital PEG ratio tells you whether you're overpaying for growth These are not exotic instruments They are the institutional toolkit, sitting in plain sight, while most private investors ignore them entirely

The result? Fund managers routinely underperform the index Private investors do worse still The problem is not access to information: it's the absence of a system

Here is the hard truth Conviction without a framework is just ego The investor who says "I believe in this company" and stops there has done nothing an institution would recognise as analysis Belief is not a process Numbers are

You don't need a Bloomberg terminal or a team of analysts You need discipline, a handful of the right metrics, and the willingness to override your gut when the data says otherwise

Net-net: the difference between gambling and investing is not intelligence It s method The Iran war is good for investors because it should reinforce the importance of what they should always have known – buy and hold quality companies – because you cannot possibly second guess the words that will come out of Trump’s mouth Would you go to Ladbrokes to gamble on the next word? No, you’d know it was a stupid gamble So why do you do it with your pension? Instead buy and hold quality companies and ignore the noise and the bombs

Alpesh Patel OBE is the author of 18 books on investing and founder of the Great Investments Programme at alpeshpatel com/shares

Nvidia, Sarvam partner on open AI initiative

Nvidia has launc hed a gl obal AI c oll aboration, the Nvidia Nem otr on Coal ition, bringing together develope rs and open m odel builders such as Sarvam AI, M is tral AI and Perplex ity AI

Announced at its GTC event in San Jose, the initiative focuses on advancing open AI models through shared research, data and computing resources

The coalition seeks to build open foundation models by pooling expertise in development, evaluation and specialised datasets, improving access while enabling local and industryspecific customisation Its first project, a base model by Mistral AI and Nvidia, will be trained on DGX Cloud, with wider support for further development

The base model is also expected to underpin Nvidia’s upcoming Nemotron 4 family of AI models, signalling a shift towards more collaborative development of large-scale AI systems

Pratyush Kumar said open AI models are key to expanding access across languages and communities, with Sarvam AI contributing voice-first, culturally relevant solutions

Jensen Huang emphasised that open models will widen participation in AI, with the coalition promoting transparency, collaboration and technological sovereignty The move comes amid growing global interest in open AI as an alternative to proprietary systems, offering greater control over data, deployment and innovation

Former RAF pilot steers CAB through turbulent turnaround

A fo rmer Ro yal A ir Fo

ce fighter pilot w ho once flew Tornado jets at supersonic speed s is now nav igating a different kind of high-p ress

financial m arkets

Neeraj Kapur, 60, chief executive of CAB Payments, is leading a turnaround of

while fending off competing takeover bids Kapur, who joined the company in 2024, has drawn on his military

business through a challenging period marked by market volatility and investor uncertainty

Agents Bank, achieved a valuation of £851 million when

Stock Exchange in July 2023

However, the company suffered a dramatic setback just months later when its shares plunged 72 per cent in a single day following a major profit warning linked to cur-

African markets

Soon after, former chief

brought in to stabilise the business Since then, he has undertaken a restructuring programme, reshaping the

executive team, cutting roles in some areas while expand-

finance

revealed

per cent rise in income to £119 million and

Born in Punjab, India, Kapur moved to the UK as an infant and grew up in

aeronautical engineering at Imperial College London, he joined the RAF, flying Jet Provost, Hawk and Tornado

Britain ramps up tariffs to protect steel sector

industr y from collapse

o w s warnings from executives at

operations that the business had only weeks left without intervention Under the new strategy, ministers have set a target for 50% of steel used in the UK to be produced

Wales

The £2 5 billion plan is

designed to boost domestic s

From July, import quotas on a range of foreign steel products will be cut by 60%, while tariffs on imports exceeding

those limits will rise to 50% The UK’s move mirrors similar actions taken by the United States, the European U n i o n

exports reached record levels late last year

Existing UK safeguards, introduced before Brexit, are set to expire on 1 July The EU is also considering raising its tariffs to 50% and reducing import quotas from

Officials in London and B

negotiate exemptions to ease trade between the two

Fugitive jeweller appears in court over Firestar loan dispute

Fug itiv e jeweller

claim by Bank of Ind ia Previously representing

hired barrister Vivek Kapoor of 39 Essex Chambers He arrived 90 minutes late in a prison van, wearing a black suit and white shirt, and sat

behind metal bars

The case involves a Dubai

million (Rs 46 crore) (now around £3 65 million) in 2012, later rising to $15 million (Rs 140 crore) (now around £11 11 million) and reduced to $12 million (Rs 112 crore) (now

r o u n d £ 8 8 9 m i l l

n

i n 2017, personally guaranteed by Nirav on August 3, 2013 After default and loan termi-

PNB fraud allegations, the bank filed a claim against F

adding Nirav on October 22, 2018 On March 8, 2024, the bank won a summary judgment for $8 4 million (Rs 78 c

e m

n s unpaid; the two corporate guarantors are in liquidation On October 2, 2025, the b a n

Nirav, citing an earlier April

2018 notice

HDFC Bank Chairman resigns over ethics

interna

practices and his personal ethi

dated March 17, he said certain developments over the past two years were “not in congruence ” with his values The Reserve Bank of India has approved the appointment of Keki Mistry

Housing Development Finance Corp Ltd before its merger

serves as a non-executive, nonindependent director on the bank’s board

While his letter did not cite specific incidents, its timing and tone point to a possible board-level rift at HDFC Bank, which manages around 15% of India’s deposits Atanu

Chakraborty, who joined the board in 2021 and oversaw the $ 4 0 - b i l l i o n m e r g e r

3 , noted that the integration’s benefits are yet to fully materialise The exit comes at

Jagdishan leading HDFC Bank

scrutiny Analysts say Atanu Chakraborty’s remarks could prompt closer examination of

e Bank of India

Experts, including Amit Tandon, noted that the RBI’s

appointment of insider Keki

Mistry may reassure share-

flagged potential governance

c o n c e r n s t h a t c o u l d a f f e c t valuations

SBI top s in s trength, HDF C leads in valu e

State Bank of India has been ranked the world’s 16th strongest bank, and the only Indian lender with a AAA+ brand strength rating, in the 2026 Banking 500 report by Brand Finance

Meanwhile, HDFC Bank remains India’s most valuable banking brand despite slipping in global rankings

SBI’s brand value rose 2% to $8 1 billion, while HDFC Bank’s fell 7% to $12 4 billion I C I C I B a n k s a w a 1 9 % i

Overall, 19 Indian banks featured in the rankings with

$47

billion

SBI’s growth to digital expansion and diversification, while H D F C

e reflects its integration with HDFC Limited,

Port Talbot Steelworks

Atanu Chakraborty

Nirav

Memorial fund created for South Fayette student

To

Indian-origin man jails in $9.3mn gold scam

A US court has sentenced 4 3year-old Sital S ing h to four years

nationwide scam that defrauded e ld e rl y v i ct im s o f m il li o ns t h ro u g h f ra

p urchases

US District Judge Matthew T Schelp in St Louis, Missouri, also ordered him to pay $6 6 million in restitution

S i n g h p l e a d e d g u i l t y t o conspiracy to commit wire fraud

a

C h i n t a n k u m a r P a r e k h a n

Mehulkumar Darji Prosecutors said Lambert and Stevens acted as couriers collecting gold, while S i n g h , P a

coordinated the operation

victims by falsely claiming their savings were at risk, convincing

about $9 3 million nationwide

woman in St Louis was tricked into purchasing $250,000 worth of gold

Parekh and Darji were each

Stevens to 18 months, with all o

Officials condemned the scam and urged the public to report such fraud

FBI issues arrest warrant for alleged scam operator

A n In d i an- o r ig i n m a n, K alpesh kum ar Rasikbhai Patel,

a ls o kn o w n a s “K e nn y ” o r “ Mecco, ” is now w anted by the F BI fo r hi s alleg ed rol e in a n at io n w i d e f ra ud s ch e m e between 201 7 and 2021

T h e s c a m r e p o r t e d l y targeted multiple victims, who were misled over the phone into believing their identities were linked to criminal activity and persuaded to send money via cash or prepaid debit cards

Patel, 33, born May 17, 1991, in India, is described as 5 ’ 9 ” , 185 lbs, with black hair and brown eyes He has worked as a fuel station attendant, cashier, and store worker

A u t h o r i t i e s b e l i e v e P a t e l may be in or moving between Illinois and Pennsylvania

A federal arrest warrant was

Kalpeshkumar Rasikbhai Patel

conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud The FBI classifies

contact their nearest FBI office or US embassy

community to donate in

meaningful to Gautham

“kind and caring” brother and community member, according to his obituary from Beinhauer Family Funeral Homes

Rivers Young Peoples Orchestra and Sahana Band, clarinet in the

SFHS Wind Ensemble, trumpet in the Pep Band, and piano He a l s o e

black belt in Tang Soo Do and was pursuing his third Gautham l

games, and exploring nature A memorial service was held at Beinhauer Funeral Home He

grandparents, extended family,

circumstances of his death

Indian national arrested in Santa Fe child predator sting

in brief TRUMP’S REMARK ON PEARL HARBOR CREATES DIPLOMATIC DISCOMFORT

predator s, the Santa Fe Pol

onf ir med Balkam was

engage individuals attempting to exploit minors He faces charges of Sexual

remains in custody Three others; Eduardo Gerardo Ramirez, 59, of Santa Fe; Harold Lee Adams, 55, of Lubbock, Texas; and Tomas Tolcha Cacjo, 29, of Santa Fe,

operation by the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) unit and

Details of communications were w i t h h e l d d u e t o t h e c a

’ s sensitivity Prosecutors will file formal charges soon, with severe penalties under New Mexico law, and officials warned that further arrests may follow

Anti-Hindu sentiment surfaces online over new temple

A recen t post on X spa rke d on line cont rove rsy over a new Hin du te mple in Da llas, dra wing criticism from a self-d escr ibe d nat ion alist account

The account, Info Battle Maiden, claimed the 20,000 sq ft Sri Ganesha Temple in Plano would be the 18th in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, alleging a “coordinated” cultural shift

A post showing 3D renders and granite carvings from the temple’s website went viral, with users mocking Hindu culture and making inflammatory claims about immigration, priests, and caste practices, some calling Hinduism “anti-American ” Plano, a growing South Asian hub in the Dallas-Fort Worth area,

population of 235,000, mainly in Plano, Frisco, and Lewisville

sentiment in the US, fuelled by fears of “cultural loss

A 2022 Rutgers

sometimes leading to real-world incidents, like comedian Alex Stein mocking Hindu culture and influencer Kaylee Campbell alleging housing scams in DFW

Surya Midha becomes youngest self-made

Born in San Jose to Indian

valued at $10 billion by private investors last fall He and his co-founders, Brendan Foody and Adarsh Hiremath, are the y

billionaires

Zuckerberg, who debuted at 23 Midha’s net worth is $2 2 billion

models and place talent The Forbes list also features 29year-old Luana Lopes Lara, an M

ballerina, as the youngest selfmade woman billionaire Of the 35 under-30 billionaires, 8 are Americans (all self-made), 3 others live in the US, 13 in Europe, and 6 in Asia, with

Krishnamoorthi concedes as Stratton clinches victory

Raja Krishnamo orthi lost th e Democratic primary for the Illino is Senate seat to Juliana S

nomination for th e seat v acated by Dick Durbin

Backed by JB Pritzker, Stratton surged ahead in the final weeks despite initially trailing in polls, aided by increased funding a

immigration With 92% of votes counted, she secured over 40% of the vote, while Krishnamoorthi received 33 2%, and Robin Kelly finished third with 18% Raja Krishnamoorthi said he had called Juliana Stratton to congratulate her on her primary victory, expressing confidence that she would carry forward the legacy of Dick D u r b i n B

Krishnamoorthi moved to the United States as an infant when his father relocated to Buffalo for higher studies

A notable moment during Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi s visit to the US came when President Donald Trump referenced the Pearl Harbor attack Responding to a question about why allies were not warned ahead of a strike on Iran Trump remarked Who knows better about surprise than Japan? Why didn’t you tell me about Pearl Harbor? The remark referencing the Attack on Pearl Harbor drew laughter from some, while Sanae Takaichi appeared visibly uneasy Despite their wartime past, the US and Japan later became close allies Mineko Tokito noted the Prime Minister s discomfort pointing to her widened eyes and sudden change in expression, with others describing the moment as awkward given its sensitivity Japan’s 1941 attack killed over 2,300 Americans, and the war ended in 1945 after the US atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, leading to Japan s surrender

LASHKAR-E-TAIBA COMMANDER DIES IN FAMILY DISPUTE

Bilal Arif Sarafi a Lashkar-e-Taiba commander was reportedly stabbed and shot dead by family members after Eid prayers in Muridke Pakistan near the group s destroyed headquarters While the motive is unclear intelligence sources suspect a family dispute Those involved have been arrested Several unverified videos showing the aftermath have circulated on social media Reports say Bilal oversaw recruitment at Lashkar-e-Taiba s Muridke centre, training young men to spread the group s ideology He was not wanted in India Pakistan, long a hub for terror networks, has now become a major victim itself In 2025, it topped the Global Terrorism Index for the first time, recording 1,045 attacks 1,139 deaths, 1,595 injuries, and 655 hostages

LUDHIANA SISTERS SCALE AFRICA’S HIGHEST PEAK

In an inspiring achievement sisters Harshdeep Kaur Benipal and Roopleen Kaur Benipal from Ludhiana have successfully scaled Mount Kilimanjaro s Uhuru Peak in Tanzania, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 metres Now based in the United States the sisters remain deeply connected to their cultural and spiritual roots proudly representing Punjabiyat on a global stage through their accomplishment Harshdeep and Roopleen s achievement was celebrated at a felicitation at their father Kulwinder Singh Benipal s residence, president of Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Phase I, Dugri, where community leaders honoured them

TRUMP PRESSED QUEEN ELIZABETH ON HARRY AND MEGHAN, BOOK REVEALS

Donald Trump reportedly bombarded Queen Elizabeth II with questions about her family and her views on past presidents, according to Susan Page’s book The Queen and Her Presidents: The Hidden Hand That Shaped History The book covers the Queen s interactions with US presidents from Harry Truman in 1951 to Trump’s 2019 state dinner, the last of her reign During the visit, Trump pressed the Queen about Prince Harry and Meghan s relationship amid reports of tension with Prince William, saying, I asked her about it constantly Come on, tell me [what you really think] The Queen replied politely, No, no It s very nice though Trump remained unconvinced He also asked her to name a favorite among 14 US presidents; she said Why? They were all so good ” prompting Trump to remark “I couldn’t get her to say a bad thing about anybody ”

Gautham Rajanikanth

Surya Midha

Nagaraju Balkam

Mombasa marks International Women’s Day 2026

A

f I n d i a i n M o m b as a, Ram a K

K umar, hosted a disting uished cele-

b ra ti o n to m ark I nt ern at io n al Wom en ’ s Day 2026

The Assistant High Commission

o f I n d i a i n M o m b a s a j o i n e d t h e vibrant Indian diaspora in commemorating the occasion The evening featured a traditional fashion and talent show, showcasing the strength, creativity, and leadership of women, while celebrating the rich cultural diversity across India’s states In line with this year ’ s theme, “Give To Gain”, let us pledge our respect, time, and opportunities to ensure every woman and girl can thrive

Gangaur festival celebrated with grandeur in Pennsylvania

The 19th

A g a K h a n U n iv ers i ty Hospital, Nairobi (A KUH), h as laun ch ed a K E S 80 0

m i ll i o n A I - en abl ed

T ru e Be am Ra d i o th er ap y System, offering h ighly p recise cancer treatment and s i g ni fi c an tly s h o rt

sions

The TrueBeam system

l radiotherapy from about 20 m i n u t e s t o u n d e

1 0 , improving patient comfort and efficiency With submillimetre precision, it targets tumours while minimising damage to healthy

t i s s u e , r e d u c i n g s i d e effects, and improving outc o m e s I t t r e a t s c a n c e r s including breast, prostate,

c e r v i c a l , h e a d a n d n e c k ,

l u n g , l i v e r , b r a i n , s p i n a l , p a e d i a t r i c t u m o u r s , a n d select metastatic lesions

At the launch, Ministry

o f E d u c a t i o n P r i n c i p a l

Secretary Prof Abdulrazak Shaukat praised AKUH for advancing cancer care in Kenya “With 42,000 new cases annually, initiatives like this strengthen precision medicine, early diagnosis, and position Kenya

a s a r e g i o n a l h e a l t h c a r e hub,” he said Rashid Khalani, CEO of A K U H , a d d e d , “ W e a r e p r o u d t o e x p a n d s p ecialised services and transf o r m c a r e a c r o s s S u bSaharan Africa ” T r u e B e a m , r a r e i n Africa and available only in s

Africa, Egypt, Kenya, and N i g e

also the first in East Africa in 2018 to install a PET-CT

cementing its leadership in regional cancer care

reducing exposure to nearby organs, side effects, and

Head of Radiotherapy

Indian High Commissioner concludes three-day Kenya visit

Th e High Co mmissioner of I ndia to Kenya, HE Dr Adarsh Swaika, co ncluded a p roductive three-day visit to Thika, N aku ru, and N aivasha fro m 12- 14 March

H e v i s i t e d t h e N a i v a s h a S p e c i a l Economic Zone and Inland Container Depot, key hubs for Kenya’s logistics and industry, discussing ways to expand Indian companies’ role in manufacturing, logistics, and value addition, as well as improving transit of Indian cargo to landlocked regional countries He also toured the Olkaria Geothermal P o w e r P l a n t , c o n t r i b u t i n g 8 0 0 M W t o Kenya’s grid With geothermal providing over a third of national electricity, the visit highlighted opportunities for India-Kenya collaboration in clean energy, with India targeting 500 GW from non-fossil sources by 2030

The Indian diaspora in Nakuru welcomed the High Commissioner at the historic Shri K r i s h n a T e m p l e , o v e r 1 0 0 y e a r s o l d H e praised the community for installing East Africa’s largest Lord Hanuman statue and commended their contributions to Kenya’s socio-economic development, while address-

ing queries on consular, commerce, and cultural matters

He visited Bedi Investments Ltd , a leading textile manufacturer, and the Nakuru assembly plant for TVS two-wheelers, Piaggio three-wheelers, and Ace forklifts, all supporting local manufacturing, jobs, and regional mobility

T h e H i g h C o m m i s s i o n e r a l s

d Bidco Group in Thika, a major FMCG producer, showcasing the entrepreneurship and industrial impact of the Indian-Kenyan community using machinery and raw materials from India

Kenya, Uganda launch new SGR phase

K enya and Uganda have taken a s ignificant s tep toward regional inte gra tion with the la unch of a new phas e of t he Standard Ga uge Railway (SGR), aimed a t linking Eas t Af ric a to the Dem oc ratic Republic of the Congo

Speaking in Kibos, Kisumu, President William Ruto said the groundbreaking of the 107kilometre Kisumu–Malaba section would complete nearly 1,000 kilometres of continuous rail from Mombasa to Malaba, connecting onward to the Malaba–Kampala line The Chinesefunded extension is expected to reach the Uganda border by June next year, easing road congestion, reducing accidents and transport costs, and boosting regional trade

Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni said the project aims to shift heavy cargo from road to rail and move petroleum transport to pipelines, easing pressure on road networks The railway currently operates between Mombasa and Nairobi, but delays in its extension have left Kenya heavily indebted to China, which has withheld further funding until the line reaches Uganda

Isa r–Gauri Ma ta The event was led by Shri Nand Todi, founder of the

Ambassador Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York, attended as Chief Guest, with Prem

i , P r e s i d e n t o f RANA, as Guest of Honour Representatives of Governor

J o s h S h a p i r o , U S C o n g r e s s m a n B r i a n Fitzpatrick, and other local leaders were also present

The celebration featured Gauri Mata worship, a grand procession, cultural perfor-

Ambassador Pradhan called for greater unity within the

and technology Prem Bhandari reiterated the demand to include

the Consulate’s engagement and Nand Todi’s $1 million contribution toward a shelter home The event also included

SBI-Chicago, FIA strengthen community ties at event

Stat e B ank of India (SBI-Chicago), in coll abora tion with Fede ration of Indian Associations Chicago, host ed a “Customer Connect” sess io n a t

Am er ica n commu

y a n d sha re fina n cial insight s The event was attended by SBI-Chicago CEO RK Jain and his team, along with key FIA-Chicago leaders and community members The SBI team presented a range of banki n g s e r v i c e s , i n c l u d i n g N R E a n d N R O accounts, as well as investment options like fixed deposits and certificates of deposit, with participants showing strong interest in the bank’s competitive CD offerings

The interactive session enabled participants to ask questions and receive personalised guidance, helping them better understand how SBI’s services can support their

financial needs in both the United States and India Strong interest was evident, with several attendees initiating new account openings during the event

The programme concluded on a positive note, reaffirming SBI-Chicago’s commitment to providing dependable banking solutions and FIA-Chicago’s role in fostering meaningful community connections

Afghanistan-Pakistan tensions edge closer to conflict

Nearly five years after the Taliban returned to po wer in Afghani stan, the global community has paid little attention to th e region and h as stru ggl ed to i nflu ence develo pments

D u r i n g t h i s t i m e , t h e T a l i b a n h a s i m p o s e d

rights and freedoms

Relations with neighbouring Pakistan have also deteriorated sharply During the US-led NATO intervention, Pakistan supported both Washington and the Taliban, expecting to maintain influence However, ties have worsened since 2021, with Pakistan accusing Afghanistan of harbouring mili-

tants responsible for thousands of deaths Pakistan has intensified cross-border airstrikes amid reduced Western engagement, with recent clashes reportedly killing over 1,000 people and displacing more than 100,000 Both sides deny responsibility, worsening regional instability

M

o resolve the crisis While a temporary Eid alFitr truce offers brief relief, lasting peace will require direct talks backed by major p o

n d China Both countries must play a role in easing tensions and encouraging accountability

US lawmaker moves to recognise 1971 Bangladesh Genocide

Greg La nds man has introduced a r esolut ion in the US House formal ly recognis ing the 1971 Bangla des h Genocide and call ing f or ac countability for the Pakista n Army and Jamaat -eIsl ami ove r war crimes and c rim es agains t hum anit y The resolution also urges protection for religious minorities in Bangladesh and cond

Hindus were specifically targeted alongside other ethnic Bengalis It further calls on the US President to formally recognise these acts as genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity Greg Landsman said the events of

March 25, 1971, meet the UN’s definition of genocide, citing documented evidence of systematic violence by the Pakistani military He stressed that recognising the atrocities, particularly the targeted persecution of Bengali Hindus, is long overdue and essential to honour victims and uphold justice for religious m

HinduACTion has worked closely with diaspora communities to highlight the plight of minorities in Bangladesh He expressed hope that formal recognition will deliver justice to those affected and help ensure the safety of millions of Hindus, Christians, and other minority groups

Delegates present at the event

Members of the Bidco Group manufacturing facility with Dr Adarsh Swaika at their Thika headquarters

Dr Ravi Murarka inaugurates the event by lighting the ceremonial lamp

Presentation being made about SBI financial offerings at FIA-1980 meeting in Chicago

India and US discuss Hormuz situation over call

P ri m e M i n i s te r N a re n dr a

M o di ha s h el d a pi v ot a l

t e le p hon i c c on ve r s a ti on with US President Donald

T r um p t o a d dr es s th e worsening West Asia crisis

energy security

essential need to maintain open and secure navigation t h r o u g h t h e S t r a i t o f Hormuz

T h i s d i p l o m

i c exchange follows President Trump’s recent decision to implement a five-day pause on planned military strikes

y t

k s a i m e d

l r e s o l u t

n o f h o s t i l i t i e s P r i m e M i n i s t e r M o d i welcomed the move toward d

I n d i a ’ s p o s i t i o n t h a t dialogue remains the only viable path to peace as the c o n f l i c t e n t e r s i t s f o u r t h week

A d d r e s s i n g t h e R a j y a Sabha later that day, the Prime Minister warned that the economic shocks of the US-Israel-Iran war could be l o n g - l a s t i n g W h i l e o v e r

4 0 2 , 0 0 0 I n d i a n n a t i o n a l s

h a v e a l r e a d y b e e n r e p a t r i a t e d s i n c e l a t e February, Modi urged state governments to coordinate with the same urgency seen

d u r i n g t h e C o v i d - 1 9 p a n d e m i c t o p r o t e c t vulnerable citizens

D e s p i t e t h e o n g o i n g blockade of major shipping lanes, the Prime Minister assured the House that the g o v e r n m e n t h a s s e c u r e d domestic energy needs by diversifying crude oil and L P G s o u r c i n g H e

c o n c l u d e d b y u r g i n g

n a t i o n a l v i g i l a n c e , n o t i n g

t h a t w h i l e s

e being expanded to a further

65 lakh metric tonnes, the g l o b a l e n e r g y m a r k e t remains in a critical state

W ar marks £432 billion loss for Indian market

The equity market has s u f f e r e d a h i s t o r i c contraction, with investor w e a l t h p l u m m e t i n g b y a p p r o x i m a

since the outbreak of the US-Israel-Iran war

T h e B S E S

a n d N S E N i f t y 5 0 h a d b o t h crashed by more than 10 5 per cent as the escalating

c o n f l i c t i n W e s t A s i a triggered a massive global risk-off sentiment

T h e p r i m a r y c a

surge in Brent crude prices, which hit $113 per barrel amid threats to the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for the 85 per cent of oil that I n d i a i m p o r t s C o n s e q u e n t l y , t h e I n d i a n rupee spiralled to a record i n t r a d a y l o w o f 9 4 0 4 a g a i n s t

nation s fiscal deficit

A s t a g g e r i n g R s 1 4 1 9 trillion was wiped off the Bombay Stock Exchange as t

points following President D

occurred with the Sensex gaining 1,372 points after t

announced a five-day pause

Iranian energy grids

D

reprieve, Foreign Portfolio I

withdrawn over $11 billion in March, reflecting deepseated anxiety over regional

GDP growth estimate to 5 9

costs threaten to dampen domestic consumption

PM Modi leads global peace di plomac

following the eruption of the US-Israel-Iran war

Since the initial strikes, Modi has held urgent calls

Eid and Nowruz greetings and condemned attacks on c r i t i c a l i n f r a s t r u c t u r e

Pezeshkian briefed Modi on

r e g i o n a l s e c u r i t y a n d a p p r e c i a t e d I n d i a ’ s independent diplomacy and BRICS role

S i m u l t a n e o u s l y , M o d i spoke with Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on the war ’ s impact on global

f o o d , f u e l , a n d f e r t i l i s e r s e c u r i t y , c o n d e m n i n g attacks on energy facilities that pushed crude prices to $115 per barrel Both leaders stressed the importance of secure shipping lanes for regional economic stability

P r i m e M i n i s t e r M o d i also spoke with Sri Lankan

P r e s i d e n t A n u r a K u m a r a

D i s a n a y a k a a b o u t t h e e v o l v i n g W e s t A s i a situation and its impact on global energy security They stressed the importance of secure, open shipping lanes

a n d r e v i e w e d I n d i a - S r i

L a n k a c o o p e r a t i o n i n e n e r g y a n d r e g i o n a l s e c u r i t y R e a f f i r m i n g

I n d i a ’ s N e i g h b o u r h o o d

F i r s t p o l i c y a n d MAHASAGAR vision, Modi

h i g h l i g h t e d t h e n e e d f o r

c l o s e c o o r d i n a t i o n B o t h

e a d e r s a g r

c o n s u l t a t i o n s o n s h a r e d

challenges

Centre forms panels to tackle Iran conflic t i mpact

The Centre has set up seven empowered groups of o f f i c i a l s a n d e x p e r t s t o address the impact of the Iran conflict on key sectors

and dialogue to safeguard

Hormuz, where a blockade has pushed Brent crude to $115 per barrel, threatening 55% of India’s gas supply

Pezeshkian, Prime Minister

N a r e n d r a M o d i c o n v e y e d

o f I n d i a ’ s e c o n o m y , including oil, gas, fertilisers, s u p p l y c h a i n s , a n d i n f l a t i o n T h e s e p a n e l s , formed on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s directions after a Cabinet Committee on Security review, include s e n i o r o f f i c i a l s f r o m t h e P M O a n d C a b i n e t Secretariat

Trump postpones Iran strikes amid peace hopes

The United Sta te s has ab ruptly shelv ed plan s for de vastating air stri kes on Ira nian e nergy infrastructure as Pre si dent Don ald Trump sign als a possib le diplomatic re solution to the threew ee k-old conflict

The White House announced a five-day pause on attacks against Tehran’s power plants, triggering a drop in global oil prices and a rebound in stock markets The move follows a month of US-Israeli hostilities that have killed over 1,300 people and disrupted trade through the Strait of Hormuz

The President credited the pause to talks led by envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner with a senior Iranian official, though Tehran denied this, with parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accusing Washington of market manipulation Despite diplomacy, the Pentagon is sending 8,000 additional Marines on the USS Tripoli and USS Boxer, raising US forces in the region to 60,000 The five-day ultimatum gives Iran a final chance to meet US demands, including abandoning its nuclear program and reopening shipping lanes, but the troop surge suggests a fullscale intervention remains possible

d entist spent five years trav elling 3 7,0 00 km across 23 states to create what India lacks: a systematic map of dental v ariations and what they rev eal about a p erso n ’ s id entity and origin Dr Jayasankar P Pillai of the Government Dental College and Hospital analysed 2 23 lakh teeth to build

morphology database, earning a PhD from the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) His work could t r a n

identified Dr Jayasankar P Pillai’s dental classification currently identifies a person ’ s region with 36% accuracy and gender with 63%, with potential for improvement using AI and a larger database India’s limited dental records often force investigators to rely on photographs “Teeth can survive decades or centuries, making them invaluable,” said Dr J M Vyas, NFSU vice-chancellor, noting plans for a national dental registry

T he Sup reme C ourt ruled th at o nly indi vid u als wh o profess Hinduism , Sikhism,

o r B u d d h i sm c an c la im Sch ed uled C aste (S C) status and pro tecti on und er the S C /S T ( P re v en ti o n o f A tro c i ti es ) A ct T h

ng C hristianity, lose S C status T h e j u d g m

Justices PK Mishra and NV

Anjaria, upheld an Andhra Pradesh High Court ruling

alleged caste-based abuse

ruling he lost SC

Christianity and could not claim protection under the SC/ST Act Holding an SC

Court, which quashed the

The murti-pratishtha rituals performed by Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj, marking a momentous and spiritually significant occasion for devotees The sacred murtis were consecrated at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandirs in Kurukshetra and Panchkula, Haryana, India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Donald Trump

Murtis to be consecrated at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandirs in Kurukshetra and Panchkula Haryana, India

Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj performs the murti-pratishtha rituals

Continued from page 1

ELECTION FEVER GRIPS INDIA

P o l l i n g w i l l t a k e p l a c e b e t w e e n April 9 and April 29, with counting on May 4 In the run-up, parties are intensifying campaigns, announc-

i n

, forming alliances, and sharpening their political messaging to appeal to 170 million voters across 824 constituencies Voter roll co ntrov ersy add s twist to Bengal polls

T h e W e s t B e n g a l A s s e m b l y Election 2026, scheduled in two phases on April 23 and 29, is emerging as a direct contest between the

r u l i n g A l l I

Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with the Left

a n d C

The Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik

M o r c h a i s c o n t e s t i n g t h e Darjeeling hill seats as a TMC ally

The TMC, in power for three

t e r m s , h a s r e p l a c e d 7 4 s i t t i n g

MLAs to counter anti-incumbency

In 2021, it won 215 seats with a 48 02% vote share, while the BJP secured 77 seats with 38%, marking a sharp rise from its 2016 performance

C h i e f M i n i s t e r M a m a

Banerjee is set to face BJP leader

S u v e n d u A d h i k a

l e c t i n g a continuation of their 2021 rivalry Meanwhile, the election build-up has been clouded by controversy over voter list revisions, with the electorate shrinking significantly and millions of names still under scrutiny, adding uncertainty to the polls

The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has dominate d W e s t B e n g a l ’ s p o l i t i c a l d i scourse, overshadowing governance

i s s u e s a n d b e n e f i t i n g C h i e f

Minister Mamata Banerjee, who has used it to target the BJP While the BJP initially gained traction after the 2024 Kolkata incident, internal divisions and challenges in

n a v i g a t i n g t h e s t a t e ’ s c u l t u r a l dynamics have weakened its position The TMC remains consolidated under Mamata and Abhishek Banerjee, while Congress contests independently and the Left could influence close races, keeping the outcome uncertain

Minority voters, long the backbone of TMC dominance, now face a fragmented landscape ahead of the 2026 polls With roughly 30% of the electorate influencing over 114 seats, smaller Muslim outfits, a r e s u r g e n t C o n g r e s s i n n o r t h B e n g a l , a n d n e w e n t r a n t s l i k e Nawsad Siddique’s Indian Secular Front (ISF) and Humayun Kabir’s AJUP (aligned with AIMIM) are creating fresh uncertainty in the state’s electoral arithmetic

A m i d t h i s b a c k d r o p , B J P national president Nitin Nabin is set to visit the state to review elect

visit will include high-level strategy meetings with party leaders and workers, focusing on strengtheni n

c

n

strategies He is also scheduled to meet various organisational wings and review booth-level readiness, w h i l e o

Dakshineswar Kali Temple, as the party intensifies efforts ahead of the crucial polls

Drav idian d ominance in elections

T h e T a m i l N a d u A s s e m

Election 2026 will be held in a single phase on April 23, with counting scheduled for May 4 Unlike m

Hindutva right has expanded its influence, Tamil Nadu remains an

marginal player This is largely due

Dravidian politics, shaped by social justice and Tamil identity, which has kept national parties in secondary roles

Chief Minister M K Stalin and the DMK are seeking re-election on the strength of their “Dravidian M

women, while the Opposition targets corruption and uneven benefits Edappadi K Palaniswami now leads the AIADMK and heads an opposition alliance with the BJP, PMK, and breakaway factions like

A M M K ,

regional vote banks despite internal challenges and BJP ambitions

T h e D M K

The BJP is contesting 10 seats, up from nine in 2021 AIADMK

Anbazhagan confirmed the party will contest only two seats under

“coalition dharma” and hopes to secure a share in power post-election, with party general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami coordinating with the BJP

However, AIADMK’s influence has waned, with new entrants like

force in Puducherry

LDF and UDF neck-and-neck ahead of polls

The Election Commission of India has announced the key dates for the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections, with polling on April 9 and counting on May 4 The announcement was made at Vigyan Bhavan,

The contest is shaping up as a close battle between the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) led by CM Pinarayi Vijayan and the Congressl

(UDF) A VoteVibe survey suggests a narrow edge for the LDF, but public opinion is divided: 38 8% r a t e d t h e g o v

r n m e n t ’ s p e r f o rmance as “good” or “ very good,” while 43 1% described it as “ poor ” or “ very poor, ” with dissatisfaction stronger in rural areas and among middle-aged voters Younger voters showed relatively higher satisfaction

voters expressed a willingness to re-elect their sitting MLA, though nearly 19% indicated a clear preference for switching parties, reflecting a moderate but fragmented anti-incumbency sentiment

a l l , v o t e r s e n t i m

n t i n Kerala appears closely contested, with key issues, governance performance, and leadership preferences shaping what could be a highly competitive 2026 election NDA poised fo r big win in A ssam, surv ey show s

poised for a decisive win in the upcoming Assam Assembly elections, according to VoteVibe’s prepoll survey The NDA is projected to secure 80–90 of the 126 seats, while the opposition INDIA bloc may win 29-39 seats, with smaller regional parties expected to remain marginal R e g i o n - w i s e , t

across Upper Assam, Lower Assam, and the North Bank, reflecting a broad support base The alliance also holds a vote share advantage at 42 7%, compared to 36 1% for the

favors the NDA, with 51 8% believing it is most likely to form the next government

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma remains a key factor, with 48% of respondents backing him as the next CM, ahead of Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi at 37 7% A V o t

V i b e s u r v e y s h o w s strong public approval for Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s handling of illegal immigration, with 38 8% rating it “ very good” and 11 8% “good ” Overall, 47% of respondents viewed the state government positively, indicating limited anti-incumbency impact on the NDA

The survey highlights strong s u p p o r t a m o n g S C , O B C , a n d upper-caste voters, with welfare schemes like the Rs 9,000 (around £71 54) direct benefit transfer for w o m e n f

, floods, rehabilitation, and corruption Younger voters (18-24) show relatively more openness to the opposition, which retains pockets

, remains strong, but new entrants like Seeman’s NTK and Vijay’s TVK could split votes among youth and m i n

along with Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi This will be the first major election in Kerala foll

r i t i e s I n 2 0 2 1 , t h e D M K

a l l i a n c e w o n 4 5 4 % o f v o t e s t o

AIADMK’s 39 7% The 2026 polls will test if Dravidian dominance can hold in a more fragmented political landscape

f Puducherry, voters will go to the polls on April 9, 2026, to elect the 16th Legislative Assembly, giving t h e A I N R C

first opportunity to be evaluated after five years of the “doubleengine” governance model The 30 Assembly seats are spread across 23 in Puducherry, five in Karaikal, and one each in Mahe and Yanam

The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) will contest all 30 seats independently, including two women c a n d i d a t e

party would contest three seats independently but support alliance candidates

I n t e n s i v e Revision of electoral rolls, with single-phase voting across all 140 constituencies

The race for the chief ministership is equally tight, with Vijayan and Congress leader VD Satheesan nearly tied at around 29% each, followed by Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar at 10 8%, and KK Shailaja and Shashi Tharoor traili n g C o m m u n i t y - b a s e d p r e f e rences indicate strong support for S a t h e e s a n a m o n g M u s l i m a n d Christian voters, while Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe groups lean towards Vijayan

The survey also highlights an urban-rural divide: rural respond e n t s f a v o r e d t h e U D F s l i g h

more, while urban voters leaned towards the LDF About 39 7% of

minorities and rural areas

While polls are not definitive, the NDA appears to hold a clear

NDA

seats, securing

Assam under Sarma’s leadership

Mamta Banerjee Suvendu Adhikari M K Stalin

Edappadi K Palaniswami Pinarayi Vijayan

Himanta Biswa Sarma

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and dignitaries

I

Bhavesh Lakhani assumes charge as President of Vishwa Gujarati Samaj

B hav es h Shashikan t Lakhani , t h e n ew ly a pp o i n t ed President of Vishwa Gujarati

S a maj , f or mal l y as

s up port from society an d the g overnment, the organisation wi ll achi ev e new hei ghts

A t t h e o a t h - t a k i n g ceremony at Karnavati Club,

B h a v e s h S h a s h i k a n t

L a k h a n i a f f i r m e d t h a t Vishwa Gujarati Samaj will

a c t a s a s t r o n g b r i d g e

b e t w e e n t h e g o v e r n m e n t

a n d t h e c o m m u n i t y H e

h i g h l i g h t e d t h e l i n k

b e t w e e n G u j a r a t ’ s a n d

India’s development, urged

c o l l e c t i v e e f f o r t s , a n d a n n o u n c

World Gujarati Conference before Diwali 2027 He also shared his vision for a fully

e q u i p p e d V i s h w a G u j a r a t i

B h a v a n a n d s o u g h t government support

U n a n i m o u s l y e l e c t e d

P r e s i d e n t , B h a v e s h b h a i pledged to preserve Gujarati

Over

two-thirds of Kerala MLAs declare criminal cases

A s ta g ge ri n g s e ve n ty p er cent of si tting Members of th e Le gi s l a ti v e A s s e m b ly ( M L As ) i

92

are

i d u

l a n g u a g e a n d c u l t u r e , u p h o

f o u n d e r s H i t e n d r a b h a i

Desai and Krushnakantbhai

V a k h a r i

guidance and support from all members

T

was attended by dignitaries including former Karnataka G

r

R u s h i k e s h b h a i P a t e l , Minister Jitubhai Vaghani, IFFCO Chairman Dilipbhai Sanghani, MPs Narharibhai

A m i n a n d D i n e s h b h a i

M a k w a n a , a n d G C C I

P r e s i d e n t S a n d e e p b h a i

E n g i n e e r , a l l o f w h o m w e l c o m e d

leadership Jagdishbhai Vishwakarma

Lakhani, officially marking

amid applause The event featured a ceremonial lamp

Vishwa Gujarati Samaj’s 30y

c

Gujaratis

A successful busin essman with a lega cy of service Bhaveshbhai S Lakhani i

businessman but also a wellknown name in political and

prominent position in the

member of the Gujarat BJP

also

director of

Club He is the son of late S

former Minister of Gujarat and the younger brother of

Yogeshbhai Lakhani

Bangladeshi national arrested over school threat emails

A 3 0 -year-o ld Bang lad esh i natio nal has been arrested

fo r s en d i ng f ak e bo m b th r eat em a il s to s ev e ral s ch o o l s i n Gu r ug ram , tri g g eri

stud ents, staff and p arents

The accused, identified a

according to a recent report

(AD R)

by ADR and Kerala Election W

member house

The findings reveal that

c h a r g e d w i t h s e r i o u s o f f e n c e s s u c h a s murder, attempted murder, and crimes against women F i n a n c i a l l y , 7 2 M L A s a r e

rupees), with

average

Karnataka introduces bill to tackle honour crimes

Th e Karnataka gov ernm ent h a s i ntr o d u c ed a bi l l to p rev ent cri mes com mi tted in the nam e of “h onou r ” and to protect individ uals’ rig ht to choose their part

Marriage and Prevention of H o n

u

C r i m e s B i l l ’ , i t proposes strict penalties and measures to tackle coercion, v i o l e n c e , a n d s o c i a l boycotts, especially in inter-

caste relationships P r o m p t e d

e c e n t alleged honour killing near Hubballi, the bill expands the definition of such crimes to include harassment, threats, confinement, forced rituals, e c o n o m i c r e s t r i c t i o n s , a n d interference in relationships, while also treating social and economic boycotts as serious offences

I t p r o p o s e s s t r i c t p e n a l t i e s , i n c l u d i n g a

minimum five-year jail term for honour killings and at least 10 years, extendable to life, for grievous hurt, with a l l o f f e n c e s c l a s s i f i e d a s cognisable and non-bailable T h e b i l l a l s o t r e a t s c o n s e n t o b t a i n e

h false promises of marriage in inter-caste relationships as deception and proposes district-level “Eva Nammava Vedike” bodies along with fast-track courts

Spy network busted, IAF staffer held

M u l t i - T a s k i n g S t a f f member at Air Force Station Chabua in Assam

surfaced on January 28 after

emails claiming bombs had

and dog squads, rushed to the schools but found no

Michael, allegedly entered India illegally nearly nine years ago and was living in West Bengal using forged

marketing and graphics

India explores next-gen jet alliances

g r a m m e and the Future Combat Air S y s t e m , b

the In dian Air Force seek s t o s t a y a h e a d of f u t ur e thre ats , said An il Chauhan

The IAF is evaluating t w o c o n s o r t i a , o n e comprising the UK, Italy and Japan, and another led by France and Germany, for p o t e n t i a l c o l l a b o r a t i o n

These include the Global

t h a i m e d a t building advanced, multid o m a i n c o m b a t s y s t e m s centred on next-generation fighters, expected by 2040

A parliamentary panel has urged faster planning, h i g h l i g h t i n g t h e integration of technologies such as stealth, uncrewed systems, AI and advanced

weapons

India is advancing its fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft

p r o g r a m m e , w i t h t h r e e consortia; Tata Advanced Systems Limited, Larsen & T o u b r o w i t h B h a r a t Electronics Limited, and a B

d prototypes, with a contract expected soon

India, Bangladesh step up diplomatic engagements

E xte rnal Af fa ir s M inis ter S J a is h a nk a r m e t H i gh Comm is sione r of Bangladesh

Riaz Hamidull ah, signalling e f f or t s t o

with Bangl ade sh under the n e w g ov e rn m e n t

Tarique Rahman

It marked Hamidullah’s first meeting with a senior cabinet minister since taking charge in May Both sides e m

with Hamidullah expressing

Jaishankar said discussions

bilateral relations

A civilian employee at an Indian Air Fo rce station h as been arrested fo r allegedly p a s s in g s en s i ti v e i n fo r ma ti o n t o P ak i s ta ni h andlers, expo sing a wider espio nage netwo rk T h e a r r e s t , m a d e b y Rajasthan Intelligence after m o n t h s o f i n v e s t i g a t i o n , traces back to January 2026 w h e n J h a b a r a R a m f r o m Jaisalmer was detained His interrogation led officials to Sumit Kumar, a 36-year-old

Investigators allege that Sumit Kumar accessed and s h a r e d c o n f i d e n t i a l A i r Force data via social media He was detained in a joint operation by Rajasthan and Air Force Intelligence and b r o u g h t t o J a i p u r f o r questioning

O f f i c i a l s s a i d h e h a d

b e e n i n c o n t a c t w i t h Pakistani intelligence since 2 0 2

Force Station Chabua and A i r F

o n N a

n Bikaner, including locations of aircraft, missile systems,

media accounts for handlers using mobile numbers in his name

HE Riaz Hamidullah with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar Gujarat UCC bill aims at uniformity, gender justice

Minister Khalilur Rahman to Delhi in April, alongside his trip to the Indian Ocean Rim

Mauritius Rahman, a former student of Jawaharlal Nehru University, previously visited

Rahman took office Prime Minister Narendra Modi has

Delhi, with Om Birla

ceremony

Th e Gujarat government h as i nt r o du c e d a bi l l to impl em ent a U nif orm C ivil C o de , r ep l ac i ng r el i gi o nbased perso nal l aws with a c o m m o n f ra m e w o rk f o r marriage, divorc e, s ucces sion, and live-in relatio nships

Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi tabled the Gujarat UCC draft, prepared b y a c o m m i t t e e l e d b y R a n j a n a P r a k a s h D e s a i , a i m i n g t o e n s u r e uniformity, gender justice, a n d s i m p l i f i e d l a w s T h e c o d e w i l l a p p l y t o m o s t r e s i d e n t s b u t e x c l u d e s S c h e d u l e d T r i b e s a n d g r o u p s w i t h p r o t e c t e d

customary rights, following Uttarakhand, which passed a similar law in 2024

The bill formalises livei n r e l a t i o n s h i p s b y m a n d a t i n g r

g i s t r a t i o n

w i t h p e n a l t i e s f o r n o ncompliance and provisions f o r m a i n t e n a n c e I t a l s o standardises marriage laws, r e q u i r i n g c o n s e n t , m i n i m u m a g e , a n d registration within 60 days, with divorce allowed only t h r o u g h c o u r t s a n d provisions for maintenance, c u s t o d y , a n d a l i m o n y Additionally, it introduces a u n i f o r m s u c c e s s i o n framework, placing spouses, c h i l d r e n , a n d p a r e n

Harsh Sanghavi

primary heirs and covering both wills and inheritance without a will

Bhavesh Lakhani

Modi becomes India’s longest-serving head of government

tenure reflects dedication to nation-first

citizens

D e f e n c

C ham ling with 8,931

Union Home Minister A

milestone, calling

rooted in service, hard work, and unwavering commitment,” and noted on X that Modi’s

Rajnath Singh praised PM Modi for his “ pure devotion to the nation,” noting his 8 , 9 3 1 d a

tireless service Commerce

M

P

G

called it a “matter of pride,” while BJP chief Nitin Nabin l

“Viksit

including over a decade as Gujarat CM, making Modi the first post-Independence P

leadership experience He

consecutive Lok Sabha wins (2014, 2019, 2024) M o d i r e c a l l e d t a

office in 2001 amid crises,

resolve to make Gujarat

governance, ” and credited voters for the BJP’s 2014 mandate

Shri Bhikhubhai Patel honoured with Shalin Manavratna Award

Devotees gathered in

presence of Sant

B

beginning with a heartfelt p rayer on th e morning of 22 M arch

The award was presented

Chairman of Charutar Vidya

arrived seated in a decorated

w i t h a v i b r a n t d a n c e p e r f o r m a n c e b y y o u n g

w o m e n f r o m V e m a r ,

Vadodara, and Ankleshwar

After offering darshan of S h r i T h a k o r j i , a t t e n d e e s assembled in the main hall, where saints and dignitaries

were welcomed with rituals a n d f l o r a l t r i b u t e s C h a n d r a k a n t b h a i P a t e l , a devoted Aksharmukt leader from Kanam, delivered the formal welcome address

S a d h u P u j y a P e t e r d a s j i briefly highlighted the life a n d c o n t r i b u t i o n s o f e d u c a t i o n i s t S h r i Bhikhubhai Patel, who was t h e n h o n o u r e d w i t h g r e a t

a d i t i o n a l k h e s , a n d S a n t

Bhagwant Sahebji bestowed t h e S h a l i n M a n a v r a t n a

Award

His wife, Sarojben, was also acknowledged for her s u p p o r t S h r i B h i k h u b h a i Patel humbly accepted the

honour as a blessing from Sant Bhagwant Sahebji and e x p r e s s e d h e a r t f e l t gratitude

S a d g u r u S a d h u P u j y a A s h w i n d a d a n o t e d t h a t

recognising those who serve society selflessly is itself an a c t o f d e v o t i o n S a n t B h a g w a n t S a h e

Shri Bhikhubhai’s simplicity and grace M e m b e r s o f C h a r u t a r V i d y a M a n d a l , A n o o p a m

Mission, and various groups from India and abroad, along with devotees from Vemar and nearby villages, gathered i n l a r g e n u m b e r s I n t h e sacred presence of the saints a n d w i t h S a n t B h a g w a n t

Sahebji’s blessings, attendees f e l t p r o f o u n d j o y a n d gratitude, immersed in the event’s divine and spiritual atmosphere

Pujya Bhaishri hosts GHS Preston delegation

F o l lo w i ng t h e su c c es s fu l

50 th and 25th anniv ersary

P atotsav celebrations, it was

d e ci d ed t ha t a d eleg a tio n w ould visit the Girls Youth Hostel p roject in S apu tara to review its p rog ress In the summer of 2025, d u r i n g t h e S h r i m a d Bhagavat Katha delivered by Pujya Bhaishri, the society

r a i s e d a n e t s u m o f

£ 2 6 0 , 0 0 0 , w h i c h w a s f o r m a l l y h a n d e d o v

S

C h a i r m a n B h u p e n d r a b h a i Kansagara on 8 November

2 0 2 5 P u j y a B h a i s h r i p e r s o n a l l y i n v i t e d r e p r e s e n t a t i v e s t o o b s e r v e the project’s development

A d e l e g a t i o n o f 1 0 – 1 2 members from the UK and USA was scheduled to visit on 16 March 2026 in Pujya

B h a i s h r i ’ s p r e s e n c e W h i l e t h e P r e s i d e n t , V i c e P r e s i d e n t , a n d S e c r e t a r y from GHS Preston initially

c o n f i r m e d , f l i g h t disruptions due to the Iran–Israel–America conflict led to last-minute cancellations

T h a n k f u l l y , w h e n f l i g h t s r e s u m e d o n 1 0 M a r c h , Ishwerbhai and Urmilaben were able to travel to India w i t h L o r d K r i s h n a ’ s blessings

U l t i m a t e l y , t h r e e

L-R: Gunvant

m e m b e r s ; P r e s i d e n t D a s h r a t h b h a i , V

P a r e k h

o

m e d t h e f i n

l delegation after two others were unable to attend due to illness

U p o n a r r i v i n g i n Saputara, they were warmly welcomed by the children and trustees before meeting P u j y a B h a i s h r i , w h e r

P

D

offered a garland After a

b r i e f i n t r o d u c t i o n a n d discussion, the group rested before reconvening later in the afternoon

A t 4 : 0 0 P M , t h e delegation toured the nearly completed school building, followed by a visit to the f u l l y o p e r a t i o n a l G i r l s

Youth Hostel, partly funded

b y t h e s o c i e t y , w h i c h accommodates 150 girls A purpose-built kitchen is also being installed to meet the students’ needs

A c o n c l u d i n g m e e t i n g

w i t h t r u s t e e s f o c u s e d o n s u s t a i n i n g l o n g - t e r m support for the institution

a n d t h e w e l f a r e o f t h e c h i l d r e n P r e s i d e n

Dashrathbhai credited the

blessings of Lord Krishna and Pujya Bhaishri, praised t h e t

and expressed gratitude to P

v

g

y I s h

o Mayurbhai for photography a n d v i d e o g r a p h y , a n d t o Hemantbhai for producing a documentary The visit was a meaningful realization of the vision and values shared during the Katha

Anandiben Patel, C h i e f M i n i s t e r Y o g i

A d i t y a n a t h , M a t a A m r i t a n a n d a m a y i , a n d other dignitaries She

In

India’s semiconductor market to hit $300bn by 2035

ojected

by 2035 , according to a D eloitte r epor t

Currently, India imports over 90% of its chips, but local production is expected to meet more than 60% of domestic demand by 2035 Deloitte’s ‘Technology, Media, and Telecommunications’ P r

electronics, data centres, and electronics manufacturing as key drivers of India’s $45 5 billion semiconductor market (FY2024-25), which has grown at a 20% CAGR over three years By 2035, mobile phones, automobiles, computing, and data centres will account for over 70% of demand, with the sector expected to create around 2 million jobs, 30% each in manufacturing and design, and 40% in other areas To support this growth, India will need to train 400,000–500,000 people annually through specialized courses and lab facilities

The report cautions that long-term success requires strong execution, recommending a structurally embedded national programme with stable funding and better centrestate coordination, including a single-window framework for land, utilities, and infrastructure

Malabar Group chairman M.P. Ahammed receives Business Bhushan 2026 Award

Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak T e m p l e t r u s t m e m b e r Anil Mishra said the 150-kg g o l d - p l a t e d m e t a l p l a t e ,

b

M P A ham med, Ch airman of M alabar Group, was h ono ured with th e Business Bhushan 20 26 Award by Maharash tra C h i e f M in i st er D ev en d ra F ad n av i s at th e L o km a t M aharashtrian of th e Year 2026 ceremony

The award recognises his transformative impact on the global retail jewelry sector and his commitment to societal development Held at Mumbai’s Gateway of India, the ceremony saw the presence of Chief Minister Fadnavis, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, state ministers, officials, and prominent figures from industry, culture, and society Under his leadership, Malabar Gold & Diamonds has grown into India’s largest and the world’s fifth-largest jewelry retailer Expressing his pride at the award, M P Ahammed said, “This honor reflects the dedication of the entire Malabar f a m

responsibility guide our journey Our focus is collective growth, excellence, and positive contributions to society ”

Founded in 1993, Malabar Gold & Diamonds has set benchmarks in responsible retail, employment generation, and organised jewelry trade With 425 showrooms across 14 countries, it showcases India’s heritage and craftsmanship globally, integrating design, manufacturing, and marketing Maharashtra remains a key market with 34 showrooms, creating jobs and promoting transparency The company plans to expand to 64 showrooms in the state by 2029

B

welfare, directing 5% of Malabar Group’s profits to initiatives

company operates The Business Bhushan Award reinforces his reputation as a respected industrialist, with his focus on values, ethics, and long-term vision inspiring entrepreneurs and the global business community M

ceremonial procession

mathematics,

spiritual

and symbolize

'beej' mantras, it is modelled on the Shri Ram Yantra of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham and crafted under Swami V i j

Brought from Tirupati D

plate

e auspicious ‘abhijit muhurat’ as part of Chaitra Navratri and Hindu New Year rituals Security in Ayodhya was h

across the temple complex and city

Bharat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Shri Bhikhubhai Patel (centre) receiving the Shalin Manavratna Award from Sant Bhagwant Sahebji (centre right) at the ceremony

Patel, Rajesh Nakarani, Dashrathbhai Nayee (President, GHS), Ishwer Tailor (Vice President, GHS), Pujya Bhaishri, Kamalkant Parekh (Ex-Trustee, GHS), and Mukesh Kheni

P Ahammed (centre) with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and other dignitaries

National Geographic honours Alia and Priyanka

The National Geographic Society has named Alia Bhatt and Priyanka Chopra Jonas in its prestigious "33" list of global changemakers for 2026 Unveiled the annual selection recognises 33 influential leaders who are driving imaginative solutions and urgent action to solve critical worldwide challenges

Alia Bhatt was celebrated for her

Eternal Sunshine’s support for wildlife filmmaking and her Mi Wardrobe Is Su W

Priyanka Chopra Jonas was honoured

specifically her five-year tenure on the board of "Beyond Type 1" to improve diabetes awareness and early detection in India

The two Indian stars join a highprofile cohort that includes Hollywood legends Harrison Ford and Idris Elba, a

and actor Ewan McGregor

inclusion has sparked a social media debate regarding her role as a luxury fashion ambassador Nevertheless, the publication maintained that these individuals represent a bold new era of global leadership

Rishab Shetty eyes mythological epic directorial

The Kannada filmmaker Rishab Shetty has sparked intense speculation regarding his next directorial venture after confirming that he is developing a project rooted in mythology

Speaking at a media event in Mumbai, the Kantara star revealed that while he is currently focused on his acting role as Lord Hanuman in Prasanth Varma’s Jai Hanuman, his heart remains set on a grand mythological story for his return to the director's chair

This disclosure has reignited longstanding rumours that Shetty may finally helm the cinematic adaptation of MT Vasudevan Nair’s legendary novel, Randamoozham

The epic, which retells the Mahabharata from the perspective of Bhima, has been a dream project in the industry for over a decade

Aswathy Nair, daughter of the late author, recently confirmed that the film is "definitely happening" and is expected to go on floors later this year While the casting of Bhima remains unconfirmed, industry insiders suggest an official announcement regarding the director and lead actor is imminent

Currently, Shetty’s Jai Hanuman is scheduled for a 2027 release, following a spectacular launch ceremony held at the historic ruins of Hampi last month

Nora Fatehi slams trolls over song controversy

TheBollywood actress Nora Fatehi has launched a scathing defence against online trolls after the National Commission for Women summoned her over allegedly "vulgar" lyrics in a new film track.

The commission took suo motu cognisance of the song "Sarke Chunar Teri Sarke" from the upcoming film KD: The Devil, citing violations of the IT and POCSO Acts

Fatehi, who appears in the video alongside Sanjay Dutt, released a seven-minute statement clarifying that she filmed the sequence in Kannada three years ago and never authorised the obscene Hindi dub She argued that the producers attached her image to the translated version without permission, leading her to formally dissociate from the project

The controversy has escalated rapidly, with the Delhi Police Cyber Cell receiving criminal complaints regarding the song ’ s impact on minors While the Hindi version has been withdrawn following public outcry, the Karnataka State Women's Commission is now investigating the original Kannada lyrics

Fatehi, Dutt, and director Kiran Kumar are required to appear before the NCW on March 24 to address these allegations

Kamal and Chiranjeevi calls for unified Indian cinema

Thelegendary actors Kamal Haasan and Chiranjeevi have urged the film industry to abandon regional labels like "Bollywood" and "Tollywood" in favour of a single "Indian Cinema" identity.

Speaking at the Telangana Gaddar Film Awards 2025, the two veterans used their acceptance speeches at Hyderabad’s HITEX Convention Centre to advocate for national artistic unification Kamal Haasan, receiving the Paidi Jairaj Award, directly petitioned Chief Minister Revanth Reddy to dissolve the wood suffixes that categorise regional productions Chiranjeevi, honoured with the NTR National Award,

further proposed that Hyderabad should evolve into a global cinematic hub, drawing economic parallels to the international success of South Korean K-pop and Japanese anime

The star-studded ceremony, which coincided with the Ugadi festival, also saw Naga Chaitanya win Best Actor for Thandel and Rashmika Mandanna take home Best Actress for The Girlfriend Raju Weds Rambhai was adjudged Best Film by the jury Both Haasan and Chiranjeevi, whose careers span over five decades, emphasised that treating cinema as a unified medium would significantly bolster India's global cultural influence and GDP

India set for Ireland T20Is ahead of England tour

Reigning world c ham pions

I nd ia wi l l pl a y t wo T2 0

I nt e r n a ti on a l s a g a in s t

Ireland on June 26 and 28 in

B e l f a s t , a he a d o f th e ir

white-ball tour of England, the BCCI announc ed It will be India’s f irst r eturn to t he venue s ince 2007

BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirmed the short tour, noting India’s previous visits to Ireland in 2018, 2022 and

2 0 2 3 T h e a n n

came shortly after Ireland’s

h

Graham West revealed Paul

S

T20I captain and confirmed the series India will tour England for a white-ball series from July 1 to 19, featuring five T20Is and three ODIs across

Afghanistan in June

India have drawn strong

back T20 World Cup titles,

Kohli possibly making their final tour

The team will also have

World Cup in South Africa,

pulls out of FIDE candidates, safety fears cited

t o w i t h d r a w a f t e r c a r e f u l t h o u g h t , s t r e s s i n g t h a t personal safety comes first d e s p i t e a s s u r a n c e s f r o m organisers

F o l l o w i n g K o n e r u H u m p y ’ s w i t h d r a w a l ,

, s e t t o begin in Paphos on March 28, will decide the challenger to reigning world champion Ju Wenjun

A t w o - t i m e W o m e n ’ s

W o r l d R a p i d C h a m p i o n ,

K o n e r u H u m p y s a i d s h e took the “difficult” decision

C am e ro n M cE v o y h a s br o ken th e m en ’ s 50 m freestyle w orld record, ending a 1 7-year m ark with a t im e o f 20 8 8 second s at the C hina Open in Shenzhen

U k r a i n i a n g r a n d m a s t e r Anna Muzychuk has been named as her replacement, with FIDE offering the spot to the next highest finisher i n t h e W o m e n ’ s E v e n t s Series Humpy could face a € 1 0 , 0 0 0 f i n e , t h o u g h a decision is yet to be made

M e a n w h i l e , H i k a r u N a k a m u r a a l s o f l a g g e d s a f e t y c o n c e r n s , c i t i n g r e c e n t p o w e r o u t a g e s i n Cyprus

The move is a setback for

He shaved 0 03 seconds off the previous record of 20 91 set by Cesar Cielo in 2009 during the “ super suit” era, when high-tech swimsuits led to a surge in records before being banned in 2010 Cameron McEvoy said he expected a personal best but was surprised by his record time of 20 88, calling it “unreal” and “ crazy ” F o r m e r r e c o r d - h o l d e r C e s a r C i

congratulated him on social media, writing, “Congrats, Cam ”

Anahat Singh, Abhay Singh crowned Indian Open 2026 champions

Moataz 3-1 (11-5, 11-6, 9-11, 116) in the final at Brabourne Stadium

focus in the third game, but

coach’s advice, adding that

s e d a n d motivated She also praised H a n a M o a t a z f o r a c o m m e n d a b l e p e r f o r m a n

demanding semi-final

The win marked Anahat’s

Koneru Humpy

I n d i a , w i t h R Praggnanandhaa, R Vaishali

a n d D i v y a D e s h m u k h among the country’s other p a r t i c i p a n t s i n t h e tournament

Iran seeks FIFA match shift over safety

Iran Football Federation is in talks with

Trump about being unable to guarantee the team’s safety have prompted the request, with Iran pushing for its games to be held in Mexico instead

India to host World Indoor Athletics 2028

maiden PSA Bronze title by defeating Georgina Kennedy, entering the world’s top 20 and surpassing Nicol David’s record as the youngest Asian to do so

In the men ’ s final, Abhay

Kal Somani-led Consortium to buy Rajasthan Royals

A US-based consortiu m led b y K a l S o m ani is se t t o ac q u ir e IP L ’ s i nau g u r al c h am p i o n s, Raj a st h an R oy al s, p e nd i n g BC C I approval, with the takeov er ef f ec ti v e af te r t h e 20 26 season

The group includes Rob W a l t o n o f t h e W a l m a r t family and the Hamp family o f F o r d M o t o r C o m p a n y

B r i t i s h - I n d i a n M a n o j Badale, who bought a 65% stake in 2008 for USD 67 million via Emerging Media, will exit the franchise Kal Somani, an Arizonab a s e d t e c h e n t r e p r e n e u r , f

T r u y o A I , a n d A c a d e m i a n , and is a recognized voice in AI governance He co-owns Detroit’s Motor City Golf

C l u b a

T G L G o l f L e a g u e a n d TMRW Sports Rob Walton, 81, eldest s o n o f W a

S

Walmart (1999-2015) and led

NFL’s Denver Broncos for

Diamondbacks Sheila Ford Hamp, principal owner and

Iran’s sports minister said the team may not be able to take part in the World Cup following US and Israeli airstrikes in late February that killed senior political and military leaders Donald Trump said Iran is welcome to compete but suggested playing in the US may not be suitable due to safety concerns Iran has qualified for the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, with group matches scheduled in Los Angeles and Seattle Ind

sign of the country’s rising global stature in

Indoor Athletics Championships will begin tomorrow in Torun, Poland, and run until March 22 The three-day event will feature 26 disciplines, 13 each for men and women, with the 4x400m mixed relay making its

Abhay Singh and Anahat Singh (middle)

chair of the NFL’s Detroit Lions, represents the Hamp family, with ties to the Ford and Firestone families

Laxman Sivaramakrishnan

Cameron McEvoy

Kal Somani