AV 6th August 2016

First & Foremost Asian Weekly in Europe Vol 45 | Issue 14

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Acche din ends for Anandiben

6th August to 12th August 2016 Let noble thoughts come to us from every side

Former Prime Minister David Cameron has sparked a new controversy after allegedly recommending honours for 'undeserving people', sources have revealed.

Accused of 'cronyism' and 'devaluating the honours system', it is believed Mr Cameron drew up this list- to award titles including knighthoods, MBEs and OBEs to series of aides, including his wife Samantha's stylist, family friends and political allies such as several figures from the 'remain camp', including donors and ministers who tried to convince Britain to stay within EU. As one of his former ministers and key allies have reportedly admitted, this could perhaps be termed as Mr Cameron's final attempt to repay his 'old debts'.

The list of 48 names suggested include controversial figures such as businessmen Ian Taylor and Andrew Cook. Taylor's reputation includes questions over tax in one of his firms, an oil deal with Libyan rebels and links to a Serbian warlord, as well as being fined for bust-

ing UN sanctions on Iraq.

Interestingly Mr Cameron who has often claimed himself to be 'the first British Asian Prime Minister Britain has ever had', however he has not recommended any Asian or ethnic minority names in this honours list. This raises questions about the credibility of his famous concept (and belief) of a 'Big Society' and 'One Nation'- where contributions made

by Asians have been always highlighted.

Continued on page 10

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In a big blow to the Bharatiya Janata Party, Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel resigned from her post saying it was time "the younger generation gets an opportunity to work." The

move comes in the aftermath of the violent Dalit protests burning the state.

In the dramatic announcement, posted on her official website linked with her Facebook and Twitter, a noticeably disconcerted Anandiben said she decided to pass on the baton in deference to the age ceiling of 75 years set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The CM, who took the seat in 2014, after Modi moved on the the National Capital, had a rough two years in power. Her leadership was first marred by the Patel reservation protests that saw BJP losing out on the votes of an epic section of the Patel community.

For those who didn't know better, the resignation lay long overdue.

Continued on page 26

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ONE ONE with Keith Vaz, MP

Asian Voice |6th August 2016

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to

Kailash Chand

Kailash Chand one of the best known GPs in the country, a national figure with a sustained profile for nearly two decades. He is a fluent and articulate writer for a number of newspapers, highlighting the crisis in primary care, funding of the NHS, privatisation, and a range of other issues.

He has been passionate in his support of the NHS, and he has worked at very senior levels of the NHS and the BMA. His opinion is canvassed by many of the great and the good on all sides, gaining him many accolades, including OBE for his services to the NHS. 1) What is your current position?

Chairman of Healthwatch Tameside, former GP, Deputy Chairman of BMA and Chairman Tameside and Glossop PCT.

Pioneer Leaders in 2014 and 2015. My other proud moment has been the recognition of my son Dr Aseem Malhotra as an expert in health matters, and a successful campaigner for the Sugar Tax.

2) What are your proudest achievements?

Publicise nationally and internationally the values of universal healthcare, particularly the NHS. I have an OBE for services to the NHS and a number of awards as GP of the year. I was voted one of 50 HSJ BME

3) What inspires you?

My inspiration comes from injustices. I have a zest for picking on issues that I see need to be sorted out, even if these are lost causes! Whether these are issues of health inequalities, racism, threats to the principles of the NHS, GP crisis, etc.

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4) What has been the biggest obstacle in your career?

I have not had any major obstacles that I could not overcome, but I do get frustrated with unnecessary political meddling and bureaucracy.

5) Who has been the biggest influence on your career to date?

I would say two things – my upbringing with parents who valued equalities and good causes, as well as my background as a doctor. I have had it engrained in me that serving the community is the most noble purpose in life, and I have lived with it since I was a medical student, if not before.

6) What is the best aspect about your current role?

I see that there are many likeminded people, many of whom will give their time and life selflessly to causes that are dear to me. I often get contacted by peo-

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of right, regardless of the ability to pay for it, and this has to be a global principle.

9) If you were Prime Minister, what one aspect would you change?

I would improve funding for the NHS so that the current crisis is reversed and revers the damaging aspects of NHS reforms such as privatisation, marketisation and PFIs immediately.

ple through Twitter and Facebook so this has extended my reach into the community, which I find very satisfying.

7) And the worst?

Misguided people who do a lot of damage to the community and the NHS. 8) What are your long term goals?

Healthcare needs to be a matter

10) If you were marooned on a desert island, which historical figure would you like to spend your time with and why?

My passion aside from health is Urdu poetry. I would give anything to spend time with Mirza Ghalib, who is the Shakespeare of the Indian subcontinent. His poetry gave meaning of life to many, and inspired many other poets and classical singers. I owe him a debt of gratitude for the number of poems I have recited at all kind of gatherings!

Harrow man jailed Aides to Corbyn and McDonnell cleared over for sexual assaults on access to Seema Malhotra’s office London buses A man from Harrow has been jailed for two separate sexual assaults on London buses.

G un a s i n g h a m Elangkumaran, 51, pictured, pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual assault at Highbury Magistrates’ Court on Monday. He was sentenced to 30 weeks in prison and put on the sex offenders register for seven years.

On Monday, June 20, Elangkumaran boarded a bus on Rosebery Avenue and sat next to a 36-yearold woman on the top deck, despite there being a number of empty seats. He touched the woman before getting off at the next stop.

On Monday, July 18, Elangkumaran carried out a similar offence near Angel tube station, placing his hand on a sleeping woman’s hip. Again he got off at the next stop.

Following these incidents, officers from the Met’s transport policing team launched an investigation using on-board CCTV footage.

Elangkumaran was identified and handed himself in at Harrow Police Station on Saturday, July

2 3 . D e t e c t i v e Adnan Superintendent Qureshi, of the Met's Roads and Transport Policing Command, said: "This was an excellent result, which has seen a perpetrator of a revolting, sexually-motivated offence receive time in jail and entry onto the sex offenders register.

"I urge anyone who experiences any kind of assault or unwanted sexual behaviour to report it to police immediately as it can help us target the perpetrator and prevent it happening to another passenger.

"If you commit an offence on London's transport network, we will pursue and arrest you."

Aides to Jeremy Corbyn and John McDonnell have been cleared of breaking Commons rules when entering the office of former shadow Cabinet minister Seema Malhotra.

John Bercow, Speaker of the House of Commons, told Malhotra there was “nothing” in her complaint which added up to a breach of parliamentary privilege.

Malhotra had claimed at the weekend that staff working for the leadership had made an “unauthorised” entry into her office – prompting another internal row as the former shadow Chief Secretary accused the Corbynistas of “violating” her privacy and security.

Now, after studying her complaint, and asking the deputy Serjeant at Arms to seek more information, Bercow has written to Malhotra to say the rules have not been broken.

In what could be seen as a pointed reference to tensions in the Labour Party, Bercow went on to say that MPs and staff should operate in a “regime of mutual respect”.

The row prompted deep dismay that another internal dispute had dominated television and newspaper headlines and also led to a dramatic direct-tocamera appeal by John McDonnell in which he told Labour’s warring factions to “stop this now”.

Last night McDonnell attacked his former deputy and said the disagreement was part of the plan to weaken Corbyn.

“It’s only right and fair that Seema now apologises for the stress she has caused to my staff over the last few days. As I said on the Andrew Marr Show on Sunday the Labour Party needs to unite and actions like this which are only being used to try to undermine Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership must stop.”

Malhotra told the BBC: “I welcome the Speaker’s statement that ‘nobody should enter a Member of Parliament’s office or the office of their staff, locked or unlocked, without their

Seema Malhotra

permission’. This vindicates my view that what happened should not have happened.

“My staff have been distressed by what has happened. I regret the distress that has been caused on both sides. But I come back to what this is all about: our office was entered without our knowledge and without my permission.”

Beauty queen describes night she was stabbed by her mother A beauty queen has described how she was knifed in the neck by her own mother as she peacefully slept in her bed.

Miss Wales contestant Kumari Mahendran, 26, woke in horror as her mother attacked her with a kitchen knife.

Chitrani Mahendran, 74, chased her daughter from room to room with the blade before her daughter fled onto the

street in her nightwear, a court heard.

Kumari, who competed in Miss Wales 2013, had organised for her mother to be flown from Britain to her native Sri Lanka due to months of ill health days before the attack.

She told Cardiff Crown Court how she was woken twice by her mum brushing her hair as she lay in bed – but fell back asleep

both times after she was told: ‘Go to sleep, go to sleep.’ But the next time she woke it was because she felt a blow to her neck.

Kumari, who studied mathematics at Cardiff University, was then chased by her mum who was still brandishing the blade.

Mrs Mahendran, from Llandaff, Cardiff, will not appear in court as she is currently being treated by

Kumari Mahendran, 26, was asleep when her mum attacked

psychiatrists at Calverton Hospital, Nottingham.

C MMENTS

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Brexit impact to be short Cassandras who confidently predicted the defeat of the Brexit campaign in the June referendum have continued with their dire forecasts of doom and gloom. The most vocal of them are hedge fund managers, currency speculators and the like who, with an eye to the main chance, prefer a fast buck and a faster retreat into the shadows. Their wails are of little consequence in the long-term, hence best ignored. New vistas for Britain are now opening, which add exponentially to her trade and investment opportunities.

India is one such prospective partner. Her investments in the UK exceed those in the entire European Union. There are 700 Indian companies operating in the UK, sourcing 100,000 local jobs Reciprocally, Britain is India largest investor among G20 nations.

A strong platform is already in place for a higher trajectory in bilateral growth numbers.

Among the unfazed by the overblown Brexit controversy are the big names of India’s software services.

It is their considered view that will be short negative effect on the Indian IT industry. In the long-term, the opportunities for Indian IT companies will grow, as

will for India’s textile industry and small cars. The previous British Business Secretary was quick of the mark with a visit to Mumbai and Delhi meeting company heads and ministers and clearing the decks for the post-Brexit era ready to unfold. The new UK Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Minister for Asia and the Pacific, Aloke Sharma, was in Delhi testing the waters. The Kohinoor, he warned dismissively was not his agenda, a comment directed at India’s cut price patriots His business was serious for both countries. Apart from defence and security issues, including terrorism, cyber terrorism in which India and Britain are strategic partners, were discussed with Indian ministers. Mr Sharma dwelt on the growing economic ties between the countries which are moving from strength to strength, with bilateral trade worth 16 billion pounds. The British Council had a network across India that was more extensive than in any foreign country. There vis life after Brexit and the burgeoning promise of a better tomorrow.

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

- Maya Angelou

Turn that led to economic surge ‘It the economy, stupid,’ was the remark that former US president, Bill Clinton made during his election campaign. The economy can win or lose power for an incumbent or aspiring president or prime minister in almost any part of the world. For India, in 1991, an economic and political crisis melded into an existential crisis of the gravest significance. The first Iraq war unleashed by America’s H.W Bush administration had led to a an exponential rise in oil prices which India’s depleted exchequer was unable to finance, with a fortnight’s foreign exchange reserves left. No international lending agency was prepared to issue a loan unless the required quantity of gold was deposited in London. This was duly done with then Finance Minister doing so in person. The country had been in political gridlock ever since the fall of the Rajiv Gandhi government and the subsequent accession of two minority regimes led by V .P. Singh and Chandrasekar respectively, neither of whom had the authority to chart a new course. Worse: in May 1991, Rajiv Gandhi was tragically assassinated during an election rally in Chennai making confusion worse confounded. In the general election that followed the Congress party emerged with a narrow majority and P.V. Narasimha Rao took over the reins as the new prime minister of an India in deep shock. Kashmir was being torn apart as a jihadi insurgency took hold, the Khalistani terrorism in Punjab, with Pakistan doing its best to succor the terrorists with money, arms and refuge, the situation couldn’t have been grimmer.

The new prime minister had fateful decisions to make. The most strategic was the revival of the conomy, not with short-term measures, but through the adoption of a radically new economic course – in other words, root and branch reform. He needed a face outside the tried circle of politicians to implement them, some with the requisite knowledge of the Indian economy and its shortcomings with the necessary expertise to carve out the remedies. His chose Dr

Manmohan Singh, a former governor of the Reserve Bank of India, whose work in the job he well knew, to perform this arduous task. Singh, as a technocrat, lacking political clout, understood the pitfalls and the opposition he was likely to face from a political class grown fat the perks and perquisites of the licenceand-permit raj that he was entrusted with dismantling. Rao assured him of firm and unstinting support. He told his finance minister to go ahead and do what was necessary and leave the politics to him. The hedgehog and the fox would work in tandem for the next five years and change the face of India, breathing hope of a new dawn into its poverty-stricken citizens and frustrated entrepreneurs. On 25 July 1991, Finance Minister Manmohan Singh presented his game-changing budget to Parliament. The weeds of rules and regulation that had throttled growth were cast aside in one fell swoop and the stunted economy released from its fetters.

The anniversary of the day remarkable was widely celebrated in the media with informed analysis of its seminal significance. Economic pundits and gurus of almost every political agreed that it had turned out to be warts and all – for Rome wasn’t built in a day India’s great leap forward into the future. It was the secure platform which has been chartered an upward trajectory of continuing reform such we have seen in the 25 years that have passed.

Dr Singh, gracious as ever, paid an especially warm tribute to the memory of Narasimha Rao, but also acknowledged handsomely the cooperation he had received from colleagues in government, such as P.Chidambaram, and numerous friendly and approving experts outside it.

With the economy stabilized and growth assured, the challenges to India integrity were met with renewed confidence and surmounted. The media stocktaking was an eminently worthwhile exercise. It was a moment to ponder and reflect, and go forward, remembering the lessons of the past.

New entrants in India’s middle class The ranks of India’s middle are being swelled by new and unexpected entrants: drivers, welders, carpenters, launderers, pani puri vendors, dosa sellers, cable TV technicians and others who populate the street. They have one thing in common: energy, a keen eye for opportunity and a steadfast determination to escape poverty for the betterment of themselves and their families. They presently belong to the lower end of the middle class, which has been a major step forward in their lives This upward mobility is the subject of a recent paper entitled ‘The Rise of the New Indian Middle Class and the Role of Off-shoring of Services,’ and coauthored by Mumbai University’s School of Economics, Professor Neeraj Hatekar and his colleague Sandhya Krishna. It finds that a faster rate of growth and higher intensity of work have been largely responsible for the upward mobility that is witnessed across the country today. They write: ‘Lower middle class households earn better not because they are engaged in different occupations from the poor, but because they been able to get their family members to do the same things that the poor do.’ Lower middle class refers to households whoe

per capita incomes per day vary from Rs 134 to Rs 268.

Venkatesh Kumar, political scientist and professor at the Mumbai-based Centre for Governance and Public Policy agrees with the findings above. ‘The social base of the middle classes is expanding and it is cutting across caste, occupation, asge, gender and geography,’ he says. A survey of 800 such households revealed that almost everyone had a cell phone and a watch or a clock. Over 70 per cent had access to electricity and around 60 per cent owned a fan and a colour television set, pressure cooker and steel utensils, plus jewillery.

Between 2005 and 2011-12 the middle class grew from 28 per cent to a little over 50 per cent. ‘The middle cclass is now a diversified group because the country now offers various opportunities for the creation of wealth,’ says S.Parasuraman, Director of the Tata Institute of Social Sciences.

IT services have contributed exponentially to the swelling numbers of the middle and upper reaches of the middle class, Educational opportunities, improved banking facilities have contributed significantly to the overall process.

British Indian Brothers Who Shed Blood August is the month of India’s Independence.

But India had two wars of Independence. The one that was meant to be non-violent and against Britain and ended in 1947. And the other that was very violent and alongside Britain and ended in 1945.

Britain does not have an Independence Day, despite Boris Johnson wanting June 23rd to be one, but the two nations are linked forever.

August a couple of years ago saw the release of a book which proves why Britain and India should be as close allies as America and Britain.

That book is Road of Bones: The Siege of Kohima – The Epic Story of the Last Great Stand of Empire.

That book about Kohima reads, ‘ The epic story of one of the most savage battles of the Second World War. Kohima. In this remote Indian village near the border with Burma, a tiny force of British and Indian troops faced the might of the Imperial Japanese Army.

Outnumbered ten to one, the defenders fought the Japanese hand to hand in a battle that was amongst the most savage in modern warfare.

A garrison of no more than 1,500 fight-

ing men, desperately short of water and with the wounded compelled to lie in the open, faced a force of 15,000 Japanese. They held the pass and prevented a Japanese victory that would have proved disastrous for the British.

Another six weeks of bitter fighting followed as British and Indian reinforcements strove to drive the enemy out of India.

When the battle was over, a Japanese army that had invaded India on a mission of imperial conquest had suffered the worst defeat in its history.

Thousands of men lay dead on a devastated landscape, while tens of thousands more Japanese starved in a catastrophic retreat eastward. They called the journey back to Burma the ‘Road of Bones’, as friends and comrades committed suicide or dropped dead from hunger along the jungle paths.’

This month, this on Indian Independence Day, we will remember that for us British and us Indians and so uniquely for us British Indians, for our tomorrow, they gave their today.

And so let it be said, we British Indians salute them. Our debt, is double because we are brothers who shed blood together.

Asian Voice is published by ASIAN BUSINESS PUBLICATIONS LTD Karma Yoga House, 12 Hoxton Market, (Off Coronet Street) London N1 6HW. Tel: 020 7749 4080 • Fax: 020 7749 4081 Email: aveditorial@abplgroup.com Website: www.abplgroup.com © Asian Business Publications

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Police: Burger Bar Boys gun gang ‘completely smashed’ In Brief AsianVoiceNews

Asian Voice |6th August 2016

Two people a day stopped from turning to extremism

Detectives have said they have ‘completely smashed’ a deadly gun running network after the jailing of a final Burger Bar Boys -linked gang member.

Kumran Ghalib, 35, was jailed for 12 years despite initially fleeing to Pakistan after police swooped on criminals who were converting antique guns and manufacturing special bullets for them.

Ghalib was arrested at Birmingham Airport in January this year when he returned to the UK. He was jailed after being found guilty of conspiring with others to transfer prohibited weapons and ammunition, following a trial at Birmingham Crown

Police are stopping at least two people every day from becoming Islamic extremists, the country’s most senior counter-terrorism officer has said .

Mark Rowley, Assistant Commissioner of the Met Police said his officers were intervening in as many as 70 cases each month where people were showing signs of beinf radicalised.

Kumran Ghalib

Court.

Other gang members had previously been handed prison sentences totalling 204 years for their role in the deadly trade, including Burger Bar Boys ‘godfather’

Other members of the gun gang who were given prison sentences totalling 100 years

Nosakhere Stephenson, who was jailed for 22 years. They included: Joynal Abdin, 26, Mohammed Fedar, 27, Amar Ghalib, 32, Rowan Gul, 33,

Usman Hussain, 31, Ifran Hussain, 25, Joga Mattu, 31, Mohammed Selu Miah, 24, Janed Mohammed, 21, and Mohammed Ullah, 19.

Drug dealer on run hides out as Uber driver he would be using it on taxi app Uber.

But, instead of using it to pick up fares, Ibrahim Meah gave the vehicle to his brother to use as a getaway car. With the taxi as cover, wanted Yusuf Meah was able to travel about for weeks without police catching up with him.

However, after six weeks at large and a public appeal for information, police tracked Yusuf Meah down to

A drug dealer on the run from a shooting spent six weeks undercover as a CABBIE. Yusuf Meah, 27, disappeared in May last year after a gun was fired in the stairwell of his flat in Openshaw.

Investigating police turned up at the property after he fled, and found cash and drugs belonging to him inside.

Yusuf’s brother, Ibrahim Meah, then rented a private hire vehicle, telling the owner

a flat in Salford. Now he and his brother Ibrahim have both been locked up.

Yusuf Meah, 27, admitted possessing an imitation firearm, failing to surrender, and charges of possessing MDMA and cannabis with intent to supply. He was jailed for six years.

Ibrahim Meah, 30, of Burnage, later admitted assisting an offender and has now been sentenced to 16

months in prison. He told police following his arrest that he had believed his brother was in danger, and had put pressure on him to find him a car.

Met Police host Guru Purnima celebration On the 28 July 2016, Metropolitan Police Hindu Association hosted the Guru Purnima at the New Scotland Yard under the leadership of Chairperson and Forensic Practitioner, Varsha Kumari Mistry.

The Chief Guest, Assistant Commissioner Martin Hewitt, head of Territorial Policing, was traditionally welcomed by Pieten Vetting Officer Mepani with a jasmine garland. Mr Hewitt opened the event by the lighting of a

Varsha Kumari (far right) and Assistant Commissioner Martin Hewitt with guests.

candle and showering petals on the Paduka (wooden san-

dals symbolic of the Guru).

Guest speakers at the cel-

ebration included Chief Superintendent Simon Ovens, the Harrow Borough Chief Commander; Superintendent Victor Olisa, the Diversity and Inclusion Lead in the Metropolitan Police Service; PC Dipesh Raithatha, DC Nainesh Desai, Dr Manish Tayal Surgeon Lieutenant Commander Royal Navy, Devi Saraswati Mishra Spiritual leader from India and Subhash Thakrar - former President of London Chamber of Commerce.

Sir Edward Garnier thanks the British Hindu community Leicestershire MP, the Rt Hon Sir Edward Garnier QC, thanked the British Hindu community for their contribution to the UK while celebrating at Shri Krishna Rasamrut Mahotsav.

The event on Saturday, July 16, saw hundreds of people from across the country attend the

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Shrimad Bhagwat Saptha at the Shreeji Dham Haveli in Leicester.

Sir Edward spoke of the vital contribution the community makes to Britain and conveyed his best wishes on behalf of Prime Minister Theresa May. The event also raised awareness of Organ

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Sir Edward speaking at the Mahotsav

Donation and Transplantation in Leicestershire.

Sir Edward’s said, “I want to thank the British Hindu population, and particularly not just those of you that are in this great tent this afternoon, but all those that you represent, who could not fit in this hall. Because it is unquestionable that the life of our country - it is not my country, it is our country - has been hugely enriched by those of you, who were born in India, in Gujarat, those of you who were born in East Africa, and of course, those of you who were

Man jailed for throwing stolen dog from window

A former security guard has been jailed for throwing dog to its death from a seventh floor window after the neighbour he stole it from turned up at his door.

Mahmood Keshavarzi, 37, threw Zeus, an American bulldog 60 feet to the ground where the animal landed with a noise that sounded like two cars going into each other, witnesses said. He was jailed for 26 weeks and ordered to pay the family £800 in compensation.

East End boy becomes first British leader of Muslim Council

The Muslim Council of Britain has elected its first British leader. Harun Khan, 46, a manager at Transport for London, is the youngest ever secretary-general at the MCB, an umbrella body for over 500 mosques and Islamic groups in the country. Khan’s father arrived from Bangladesh in the 50s and worked in the clothing industry whilst his mother arrived ten years later.

Eastbourne Pier owner in trouble over gold touches

The controversial owner of Eastbourne Pier has been ordered to stop painting the iconic site gold.

Sheikh Abid Gulzar, 70, bought the pier last year and now it has emerged that he is in hot water with Natural England and Eastbourne Borough Council after he started painting parts of the Grade Two listed building gold, including the cupola, otherwise known as the dome, plus 40 lions adorning the original ironwork.

Mr Gulzar, who was born in India, stepped in when the 140-year old pier was nearly destroyed by fire two years ago. He now faces protests but has said he cannot understand what the fuss is all about.

Drug dealer told to sell house or face five more years in jail

A CONVICTED drugs trafficker has been ordered to sell his house and give the proceeds to the National Crime Agency or face an extension to his prison term.

Khandhakar Thaj Uddin, 42, from Ilford, east London, was sentenced to 20 years in prison in 2009 for heroin and cannabis importation over five years between 2003 and 2008.

In 2010 a court ruled that the financial benefit from his criminality was £739,000.

(Pic courtesy: Dipak Joshi)

born here.

“So, thank you very much for all that you do – in terms of culture, in terms of business, in terms of politics, but also in terms of public service.

“I want to do is to bring greetings from our new Prime Minister, Theresa May, who has asked me to thank you on behalf of her new Government, for all that you have done over the many years that our two civilisations have been connected, and to wish you well this weekend, and were she here, I am sure that she would say the same.”

Whitgift student beats thousands to Spanish spelling bee title

A WHITGIFT School pupil beat tens of thousands of students from across the country to win a competitive spelling bee – in Spanish.

Year 7 student Mihir Jagwani won the national final of the Routes into Languages Spelling Bee in Cambridge.

Mihir had to correctly translate and spell the most number of words in Spanish in just 60 seconds. More than 75,000 youngsters from 580 schools across the country took part in this year's competition at Anglia Ruskin University.

UK Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

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The Kirit I knew Mr Umesh B Patel. MBE, DL Sunderland Approximately 16 years ago I met Kirit Patel, Day Lewis Pharmacy, for the first time at the Queen Elizabeth Conference Centre, for a Pharmaceutical Services N e g o t i a t i n g Committee(PSNC) conference. After my election to the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) board, I was fortunate to meet Kirit again, who at the time was a contender for the chair of the NPA. Kirit was always a friendly gentleman who filled the room with constant laughter and lively animated personality. He always went out of his way to be friends with everyone and introduced himself to anyone he had not met before. One would never expect him to introduce himself because of his success or the number of shops that he owned, or his wealth, but just as a genuine and humble human being that he was. Before we went on one of our trips to Paris, he was looking for ankle socks and we saw an old man selling them on the footpath. The generous and kind hearted soul that he was, he bought the entire stock of socks and paid more than the asking price, which was probably 6 months worth of the old man's income. Such was his generosity.

Over the years our friendship grew and both my wife and I were fortunate to travel with him and his wife Nalini across India. On one particular trip to South India, he took the entire group of passengers on the train to a soft drink factory manufacturing Torino, an orange soft drink that is widely distributed in southern India. His father had financially supported the owner to establish the business. Kirit was very proud of this gesture of his father, and this trip reinforced the importance of family and business to him. That afternoon we all returned to the boat and had a wonderful time eating and dancing. He never understood or liked Indian Bollywood music but enjoyed the culture of India. During our trip to India, we really experienced Kirit’s enthusiasm for travel.

He was a person who would take on challenges to prove that he could overcome any difficulty. He always made sure that he achieved his full potential.

He would take huge financial risks to expand his empire of pharmacies but always with the right people at the core of his business. This ethos enabled him to survive economic downturns, NHS funding

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Pasikudah, Sri Lanka 5 Nights Kirit with his wife, Nalini on a beach in South India

cuts and the credit crunch.

“Aim for the stars, and when you hit the moon that will be a remarkable achievement,” was his message.

Kirit loved to entertain people and would do this often. He would always buy drinks for everyone and even for those he was meeting for the first time. He believed in unity and never liked disharmony in organisations or the pharmacy bodies that he represented.

My recent memory of Kirit was when we had a meeting in his pharmacy in Harrods at the end of June 2016. I remember him coming down the steps very smartly dressed, as always. Before the meeting, he went straight to the pharmacist who was fasting for Ramadan and advised her to take a break if she needed to or was tired. Kirit had a lot of respect for his staff, as well as all other religions.

During our meeting Kirit thought I was in financial difficulty and offered a substantial amount of money to me without any security. Although that was not the purpose of our meeting, it was a display of his trust and generosity.

We often exchanged text messages until midnight, at least once or twice a week. One of the last text messages I sent him was to help draft his speech for receiving his honorary doctorate at Bath University.

His speech was outstanding and was truly inspirational. This can be seen at: https:vimeo.com/1729140 86. His speeches were never to be missed; his wise words united various factions in the world of pharmacy in our country.

On the 12th and 13th July, we attended a PSNC meeting in Liverpool. Kirit and I sat together discussing a whole range of issues affecting pharmacies

during these challenging times. He said to me that his aim was to build an empire of 500 shops in the next 10 years with the intention of handing them over to his children so that he could spend more time with his future grandchildren, his wife and travel with his friends to different parts of the world.

Kirit loved Liverpool football club. I had invited him and a group of friends to Gaggan in Bangkok – one of the top restaurants in the world for fine Indian dining. After finishing the first course he was getting restless. I asked him what was wrong and if there was anything I could do. He requested to be excused for the rest of the dinner so that he could find a hotel or bar in Bangkok, where the Liverpool football match was being shown live on TV. Such was his passion for football. Kirit also enjoyed skiing and if the entire globe was covered in snow, he would be the first to ski from one end to the other. He loved adventures including bungee jumping, sky diving and climbing Kilimanjaro.

There is a huge vacuum in my life now, which was once filled by Kirit, a supporting brother.

Pharmacies across the UK have lost an excellent ambassador, and the world of pharmacy has lost a true friend. He wanted his life to be celebrated rather than mourned and fittingly his family arranged a champagne party to celebrate his life.

One of his best friends Manvil Patel says that if we were to write a book about him, the title of the book would be “Adhoorie Kahani” (incomplete story). That would fit the life story of this outstanding person.

That was the Kirit I knew.

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Asian Voice |6th August 2016

Honorary doctorate bestowed on Rami Ranger CBE by University of West London Rami Ranger CBE received an honorary doctorate from the University of West London at their annual graduation ceremony held in the iconic grounds of Wembley Stadium on 21st July 2016.

He was given this honour in recognition of his services to business, philanthropy and promotion of social cohesion in Britain.

The doctorate was conferred upon him by the chancellor Mr Laurence Geller CBE and Vice Chancellor, Professor Peter John.

The citation was read by the Director of Development and Alumni relations, Ms Luna Sidhu and it read: “Mr Raminder Ranger CBE, known to all as Rami, is a man who has defied great odds to achieve outstanding success in business and beyond. Rami’s life began in a refugee camp in newly partitioned India. His father, a prominent anti-partition campaigner, was assassinated during the partition. His mother managed to flee and was left with the daunting task of raising 8 children in a country that had witnessed one of the biggest migrations in modern history. Life was not easy and while his mother worked tirelessly they were desperately poor.

Unable to join the army as his brothers had done, Rami came to the UK in search of a better life. The initial few months were very hard but he did not give up. He found work as a chef in KFC but soon his work ethic and commitment got noticed and he began to rise quickly

Dr Rami Ranger CBE, Chairman of Sun Mark Ltd and Sea, Air and Land Forwarding awarded Honorary Doctor of Letters (Hon DLitt) by Mr Laurence Geller CBE & Professor Peter John, Vice-Chancellor of the University of West London

through the ranks to become District Manager for the chain. He continued in corporate roles for other large organisations including McCain and Dixons.

Though these roles gave him useful operational and management knowledge, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to start his own freight forwarding business from a shed in Hayes with just £2 of capital.

Always a perfectionist and keen to ensure that his customers got the best possible service his freight forwarding business, Sea Air and Land Forwarding, quickly flourished. From there he entered the world of international distribution in the fast moving consumer goods sector and started supplying companies in emerging markets

with high quality British food and beverage products through his second company Sun Mark. Sun Mark, went on to become an even greater success and eventually achieved the unique distinction of winning five consecutive Queens Awards for Enterprise in International Trade. Today his companies have revenues in excess of £200 million and employ over 100 people.

His business skills have been recognised through the conferment of numerous awards such as the Institute of Export (IOE) Award 2013, Institute of Directors Award in 2014 and a Lifetime Achievement award by the Family Business Place to name just a few.

Alongside building a

very successful business, Rami has never shied from giving back to his community and his adopted country. Following the 7/7 bombings he set up an inter-faith forum to build bridges between the different communities. He is active in the world of politics; encouraging major political parties to engage with the various ethnic communities that make-up modern day Britain in order to build a more cohesive society. He supports a number of charities from the Princes’ Trust to Cancer Research UK and various educational institutions including the University of West London.

Despite his enormous success he remains downto-earth, accessible and passionate about equality of opportunity for all.

Chancellor, ViceChancellor I have great pleasure in presenting to you for the award of Honorary Doctor of Letters - Mr Rami Ranger CBE.” Dr Ranger expressed his appreciation to the university for recognising him and his efforts and shared his experience with the graduates that his success in life was primarily down to the role of his mother in his upbringing and how she had battled successfully against all odds and five principles around which all of his activities revolve: self-respect, good work ethics, commitment, vision and empathy for others. He urged all those present to implement these in their daily lives and that they would hold all in good stead throughout their lives.

'Perv' Doc put behind bars for sexually exploiting female patients A consultant gynaecologist was jailed for eight years after found guilty of groping four women patients during private and NHS Mahesh consultations.

Patwardhan, 53, pictured, from Loughton, Essex, was said to get off on bending female patients over an examination couch and fondling their breasts from behind.

The Indian-born father of two who saw NHS patients at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Charlton, South East London, and private patients at Blackheath Hospital and The Holly, Buckhurst Hill, Essex, was convicted of four counts of sexual assualt between July 2008 and September 2012.

Judge Alice Robinson said, "You indulged in totally unnecessary breast exami-

nations for your own perverse sexual gratification and some of the patients suffered severe psychological harm. Almost the most shocking aspect was your cavalier attitude to the wholesale falsification of medical records."

Patwardhan was also ordered to sign the sex offenders register for life and is barred from working with children and vulnera-

ble adults.

When the General Medical Council struck him off in October 2014, more of his victims began to come forward. An investigation was prompted by the Metropolitan Police and the doctor was arrested in November 2014.

Prosecuting, Kate Bex told the jury that a 32 year old mother of three was seen at the Queen Elizabeth in 2008. "He came behind her and put his arms around her and onto her breasts. He groped her breasts and squeezed them with his hands and she was in total shock," she added, saying the woman made an excuse to avoid removing the rest of her clothing.

Another woman said Patwardhan became more intimate once he sized her up. Bex said, "The cuddling

started after her second or third visit. He'd hug her goodbye and push his body into her, grab her bottom and kiss her on the cheek.

He examined her breasts after asking her to bend over the couch and asked her to show him the tattoo on her bum." The jury was informed that a 35 year old helped him make extra money out of her insurers. He performed intimate cosmetic surgery on the woman, but billed her insurers, AXA PPP, for cyst removal. "Afterwards he told her she would soon be having lots of 'sexy sex and orgasms' in a way that gave her the creeps," said Bex. A 21 year old private BUPA patient reported Patwardhan for making her sign a claim form for a £195 non-existent pre-

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Restaurant manager destroys evidence to mask assault Sameer Hussain, 29, who attempted to cover up an assault that took place in his restaurant, has been convicted of perverting the course of justice.

Hussain, of Clarence Road, Hackney, reportedly destroyed all forensic evidence and erased CCTV after two men were stabbed in his takeaway.

He was arrested on February 10 and on July 26, sentenced to 21 months imprisonment and suspended for two years.

The incident took place on December 23 last year, when two men aged 26 and 29, attacked while they were placing their order at the eatery in Chatsworth Road. In due time, officials found out that while Hussain was the manager in charge that night and not involved in the stabbing, he systematically covered up the crime after he witnessed it. He failed to call 999, and left the two men to lurch into a nearby hospital. When approached by detectives of Hackney CID, Hussain told them that the shop's CCTV system was broken and had not been recording.

However, investigation revealed that Hussain had deliberately erased the CCTV footage of the stabbing and also used bleach

Sameer Hussain

to destroy the forensic evidence left behind in his shop.

Detective Constable Ben Kahane, officer in charge of the investigation, said, "Through the actions of Hussain, two men were prevented from seeing justice done.

Hussain arrogantly thought that by deleting CCTV footage and destroying forensic evidence there would be no consequences to his actions, and that the police would leave him and his business alone. " He added, "The sentence sends out a clear message to those considering destroying evidence to frustrate police investigations. Should you actively attempt to obstruct the police and tamper with a crime scene, your actions will be investigated, you will be prosecuted and you may find yourself in prison."

London next on Jihadists' list After a series of rather gruesome attacks in Europe, Jihadists have now released images on the internet threatening similar mass assaults in London and other capital cities of the UK. The threats that were sighted by analysts for SITE, who keep a tab on extremist online activity, came shortly after Islamic State followers brutally murdered French priest Jacques Hamel, 86 on camera, in Normandy.

Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu said, "Following recent events in France, we are reiterating our protective security advice to Christian surgery consultation. She said she did not make a fuss as his wife was the anaesthetist and she was in the couple's hands. Detective Constable Mark Azariah said, "Patwardhan is a highly manipulative individual, having used his position of trust and authority to prey on the victims under his medical care, believing that they would be too embarassed to report such offences to police.

Thankfully he was mistaken and I commend the victims for their courage in speaking out despite the sensitivity surrounding their personal

places of worship and have circulated specific advice today. We are also taking this opportunity to remind them to review their security arrangements as a precaution. While the threat from terrorism remains unchanged at severe, we urge the public to be vigilant." Basu added that there was no specific intelligence relating to attacks on the Christian community in the UK. The past month has been the bloodiest so far, with IS carrying out attacks in Nice, Ansbach, and Germany. MI5 has set the country's terror attack threat level at severe, indicating an attack is "highly likely". medical concerns."

Patwardhan's QC David Etherington said, "The entire family are standing by him, plus a large community of friends. It's obvious he is never going to practise again as a doctor. This amounts to a total destruction of this man's career, everything he's studied and worked for.

He's going to have to start his life again when he comes out of prison." He mainly replied with "no comment" when questioned by the police, however, denying making dishonest claims and conducting sexually motivated examinations.

www.asian-voice.com Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

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“Work is a busy place and there’s all sorts going on, especially in meetings where everyone is talking at once,” he says. “Before I went to Amplifon I was missing out on so much at work and that’s what made me realise I had hearing loss. People were talking to me and I wasn’t picking it up. It also made me the butt of other people’s jokes.

They’d deliberately start talking behind my back knowing that I couldn’t hear them and then get louder, and once they started laughing I’d realise I was the subject of some silly prank.

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Paul Rodriguez

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Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

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British woman falls prey Racism in Met a "disease", says off-duty firefighter to honour killing Samia Shahid, 28, is the most recent victim to fall prey to the rising number of 'honour killing' incidents in Pakistan. Her family said she died of a heart attack and an investigating officer on the case, Aqeel Abbas refuted any signs of foul play, saying there were no signs of external physical injury on Shahid's body. However, a fresh autopsy conducted later revealed bruising around her neck with a source saying they suspected the victim was poisoned.

Her husband Syed Mukhtar Kazam insisted from the beginning that she was murdered by her family as they disapproved of their mariage. Photos released by him shows a 7.5 inch red mark around her neck. "I am releasing this picture of my wife's dead body because I want the world to know that she didn't die of natural causes. She was murdered." A doctor who examined her body described it as a "horrible mark on the right side of the neck."

"The police told the media and everybody here that the body did not have visible marks on it. Well, this proves that it did.

What sort of heart attack leaves a bruise like that? It is obviously murder. Her family killed her because they weren't happy that she had married me." As the police had decided she had no suspicious injuries, her family was allowed to bury her in Pandori, northern Punjab. Shahid's father Mohammed Shahid and first husband Mohammed Shakeel were both arrested on suspicion of murder. They were however, bailed soon after.

Syed Mukhtar Kazam with Samia Shahid

Pakistan Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan said the report confirms claims she died of natural causes are "wrong". "The family's claims that she died of natural causes are apparently wrong and we have ordered a reinvestigation.

The reinvestigation is aimed at a murder case rather than a natural death case. The new investigators are sure the family's claims about natural death are not true. I have been told to apply for permission to exhume her body. I will do that if necessary."

The Shahid family have lived in Bradford for years in a big end-of-terrace house complete with a heavy metal gate and high hedge shielding. Samia was pressurised into marrying her cousin Shakeel in a lavish wedding in Pakistan, in 2012 at a young age. She eventually returned to the UK and

sought a divorce via the Sharia courts and mailed legal papers to Shakeel at his Pandori home. Her move was said to have insulted her family so much, her family refused to recognise the divorce.

Her relationship with Kazam, a Pakistani living in Dubai was of much disapproval to her relatives as he was considered an outsider, a member of the Syed clan with no links to his ancestral village. She married him in 2014 against their wishes.

Bradford West MP Naz Shah, has called for Samia's body to be exhumed. She said,"'I have seen some pictures which are quite graphic in detail - that does really really raise some serious concerns. We need to get to the bottom of it as soon as possible." She even called on Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson to intervene in the case.

Study reveals 94% of Brexiters would still vote in the same way A major consumer survey conducted 30 days after Britain’s historic decision to leave the European Union has found that despite predictions of economic uncertainty, currency fluctuations resulting in increased holiday costs and a depressed stock market, 94% of people who voted to leave, would still vote the same way.

But those who voted to remain are more likely to have fallen out with friends and family over differing Brexit views with 36% of remainers reporting a row with friends and family over the vote compared to 24% of leavers.

The online survey of 500 UK voters conducted by marketing communications agency McCann Manchester and online research partner VYPR set

out to establish whether voter attitudes had changed 30 days after the decision to leave. The survey was conducted across three days from Friday 22 July to Sunday 24 July to coincide with the 30 day milestone.

Despite all of the economic uncertainty created

by Brexit, the vast majority of voters (88%) would vote in exactly the same fashion thirty days on regardless of whether they voted to leave or remain.

Despite these significant figures, the behaviour of leavers has been impacted and the corresponding numbers for those voting to leave were 26% in both the case of holiday bookings and major household purchases.

The survey also explored how people think the deci-

sion will shape the country’s attitudes towards racism with 79% of remainers saying Brexit has created a climate where racism can flourish and just under half of all leavers (46%) echoing this sentiment. This survey appears to underpin the reported rise in hate crimes documented in the media post Brexit.

Many Indians living in the UK have faced racism after Brexit- most of them shouted at and asked to leave the country. This comes as a shock as many of them re born and brought up in the UK- making it their home or had voted for Brexit, hoping the relationship between India and UK will strengthen post brexit, giving the community better opportunities and many advantages over others.

An off-duty firefighter said "racism is like a disease" spread through the Met police, after his case of misconduct against three officers citing discriminatory treatment towards him was withdrawn by the Independent Police Complaints Commission after "procedural shortfalls" emerged.

Edric KennedyMacfoy claimed he was helping officers identify a teenager who had thrown a rock at a police van at an out-of-control party in 2011, when he was tasered and insulted. Firearms officer PC Mark Gatland was accused of using unreasonable force, and firing his taser without warning, his only motivation being racial discrimination, and his colleagues PC Daniel Roberts from Westminster Borough, and Insp Sutinderjit Mahil, Ealing, were accused of using abusive and offensive language of a racist nature.

After receiving an apology from the IPCC, he said he thought "racism is like a disease within the Met Police and can only be rooted out from within. I just think if this could happen to me it could happen to anyone.

Police can do whatever they like and get away with it."

He added, "I know it still happens but I live a good lifestyle. I'm of good character, I'm a fire fighter. I've never been in trouble with the police." KennedyMacfoy said he saw being a firefighter as a job for life, but that this was no longer the case because he could not trust the Met, an organisation which the fire brigade works with closely. The IPCC chose to withdraw the case because it believes "further delays are not acceptable, given the time since the original incident." A spokeswoman said, "We recognise the effect this will have had on both Mr KennedyMacfoy and the officers involved, and would like to take this opportunity to apologise to them."

The Metropolitan Police released a statement saying, "We fully recognise that the misconduct hearing not going ahead is damaging for the complainant and for the public who need to have confidence in the way officers are held to account for their actions.

The MPS has previously apologised to Mr Kennedy-Macfoy and regrets what he experienced that night." It

added, "The three officers have had this investigation hanging over them for five years and PC Gatland was prevented from resigning. It is unsatisfactory for them that they have had not an opportunity to provide all their evidence as to their actions. Any allegation that officers have behaved in a racist way is treated really seriously by the MPS." "It is important that such allegations are fully and properly investigated and if officers are found to have done wrong that they are held to account.

After careful consideration of all the evidence available it is clear that there are conflicting accounts, and as such the case that was due to go before the misconduct panel was not as strong as previously thought."

Byron setting 'immigrant trap' for migrant workers?

One of London's top burger chains has been accused of tricking its migrant workers into immigration raids, attracting major flak from public. After dozens of its workers were arrested in a series of Home Office raids, Byron was alleged of having arranged a "fake" training day at its London restaurant, for its staff to attend.

The report first published in Spanish paper El IbĂŠrico said over 50 workers, mainly Latin American, were arrested and deported with another 150 "in hiding".

The Home Office said 35 people from Albania, Brazil, Nepal, and Egypt were arrested for immigration offences from a number of eateries in the Capital, adding that the operation was conducted with "full co-operation" of Byron. It however, denied all reports stating any kind of event was set up to trick workers. A HO spokesman said, "Immigration Enforcement officers carried out intelligence-led visits to a number of Byron

restaurants across London on 4 July, arresting 35 people for immigration offences. The operation was carried out with the full co-operation of the business."

The office said Byron had carried out the correct 'right to work' checks on staff members, but had been shown false or coun-

terfeit documentation, adding that the business would not face civil penalty action.

Meanwhile, the allegations have sent a wave of terror among workers and immigrants. People have rained over Byrons' reportedly "disgraced" treatment of staff, with some even calling for a boycott.

Hundreds of protesters sought to demonstrate outsided a Byron restaurant in Holborn in solidarity with the workers earlier this

week. A worker said, "People are angry and frightened by this situation. In the years I've been in the business I had never seen anything like it. I do not know if this is standard procedure."

A spokesman of the business said, "We can confirm that several of Byron's London restaurants were visited by representatives of the Home Office. These visits resulted in the removak of members of staff who are suspected by the Home office of not having the right to work in the UK, and of possessing fraudulent personal and right to work documentation that is in breach of immigration and employment regulation."

He added, "At Byron we are proud of the diversity of our restaurant teams, built around people of all backgrounds and all walks of life. We have cooperated fully and acted upon the Home Office's requests throughout the course of the investigations leading to this action, and will continue to do so."

UK Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

www.asian-voice.com AsianVoiceNews

AsianVoiceNewsweekly

Rani Singh, Special Assignments Editor

Kavita Cooper Founder and CEO of Novo-K Limited Kavita enjoys challenges that benefit from her breadth of experience across multiple disciplines including Procurement, Commercial Management, Business Management and Business Operations.

Having worked with Consumers, Small Medium Businesses and Global Enterprise Businesses, Kavita, through her organisation Novo-K, now focuses her efforts on the Charity and the ‘Not-ForProfit’ Sector. Kavita strives to deliver her purpose - Give Trustees and the General Public confidence in the way charities spend their money. She is innovative and enthusiastic in the pursuit of her goals and those of her clients.

Background Kavita was born in Barnet in Hertfordshire in 1979, and moved to a Berkshire village where she attended local schools before studying Chemistry and Computer science at University. Her maternal

Kavita Cooper

grandparents emigrated from Thane in Maharashtra following Indian independence in September 1947 and settled in Malawi in East Africa. Her grandfather, Dr Ambekar, was a medical doctor (University of Bombay) treating locals and many of the expat Indian community. Her mother was born in

Malawi and schooled there until she came to boarding school in Somerset, England.

Kavita says “My father was born in Punjab and my paternal grandfather came to England in 1963, my Dad followed with his mother and siblings in 1965, settling in Leicester.

My father, Hartirath Singh, studied electrical

engineering at Imperial College London, before working for Global IT companies (GEC, Digital, Compaq) and eventually retired as a Director Global Transformation at Hewlett Packard. Following her education at boarding school, my mother trained as a nurse at Hammersmith hospital and worked in NHS Hospitals.”

Early memories Kavita’s earliest memories are of visiting both India and Africa as a child. “I was privileged to be able to travel from a young age, to experience the culture and the wildlife. It gave me real passion for travel and to see the world as I grew older.

My earliest influences were strong women and the importance of education. In my family we were all encouraged to study and progress through high education and I followed my aunts and cousins to university. I took part in international exchange trips and studied in the USA whilst doing my degree. I grew up at a time where the prime minister was a woman (Margaret Thatcher) so I knew being a woman would never prevent me from achieving my dreams and aspiration to make a difference and leave a worthwhile legacy.”

Turning Point Following 13 years in the

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necessary insight into the corporate sector, Kavita great work done in the sectook on a new challenge. tor and the challenges they “Although I had supported face.” the volunteering arm of a Overcoming hurdles- How large blue-chip company I does Kavita do it? wanted to do something “I take a measured where I could make a bigapproach. Firstly, I underger contribution and set stand the challenge and up, run and lead an organiany potential risks. I then sation. Whilst at the corpobuild a robust plan to rate I ran charity trouachieve the best result or, bleshooting courses where better still, deliver we would work with charbeyond.

Once ities through pro-bono done I always consultancy. When assess whether we followed up we found the chariMy ambition there is any learning and ties, in almost is to help how we can every case, hadn’t transform the i m p r o v e . been able to implement the charity sector Anything can be achieved suggestions. This with the right was primarily down mind-set, the right to lack of expertise, team and common resource and ongoing supsense.” port. I saw a gap in the Ambitions market where I could Kavita’s ambitions are still utilise my skills, expertise building. “I want to help and experience to help suptransform the charitable port these charities and the sector, to make it more voluntary sector deliver commercial so it can supmore for less.” This inspiport more beneficiaries. ration encouraged Kavita I'm planning on doing that to leave and set up Novo-K, both through my procurea procurement consultancy ment consultancy Novo-K dedicated to the charity and our technical platform sector.

– The Buying Hub. The biggest challenge I am also excited to be for any new business is setting up a UK charity building profile. Kavita that will support youth and says “we have worked hard older people in Malawi. to immerse ourselves in the This is in tribute to my charitable and voluntary Grandfather Dr Ambekar sector. We have built key who helped so many people relationships with some of from so many different the UK’s largest charities backgrounds.” and Charity Umbrella bodwww.novo-k.com ies. This has given us the

Bob Bhania's IODR Everest Trek for Nepal – week 2 With the aim to ‘measurably improve the well-being of children following natural and other disasters’, the Indian Ocean Disaster Relief (IODR) is delighted that experienced mountaineer, Bob Bhania, has chosen IODR as the charity beneficiary for his 2016 treks and expeditions.

Earlier this year, Bob became the first British mountaineer to summit Everest since before the devastating earthquake that hit Nepal in 2015, which killed 8,000 people in its wake and injured more than 21,000. The earthquake also triggered an avalanche on Everest which killed 21 people, marking 25th April 2015 as the deadliest day on the mountain in history; something which was in the forefront of Bob’s mind and those of his supporters as he approached this mammoth journey.

Bob completed his incredible achievement at 7am on Friday 20th May, when he reached 29,035 ft. atop the world’s highest mountain - a challenge first conquered by Edmund Hillary, who stood on the Summit in 1953 on the day of Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation. 63 years later, during Her Majesty’s 90th year, Bob was able to wish the Queen a happy

Nima Kannchha and Bob Bhania during the Everest expedition

birthday from the very same spot.

Carrying a weight of 50kg and accompanied only by his Sherpa, Nima Kannchha, Bob’s gruelling month-long journey raised vital funds for IODR’s ongoing intervention projects in Nepal. But his fundraising efforts don’t end there, as Bob is already preparing for his next adventure, which begins with him climbing Mount Elbrus in September, then onto Carstensz Pyramid, Mount Aconcagua and Mount Vinson, culminating in an 800 mile trek to reach the South Pole later this year on New Year’s Eve.

IODR will be encouraging Bob every step of the way and would be delighted for you to support, donate and follow his journey to keep him motivated.

You can leave your messages for Bob on Twitter @IODR_UK and donate online at www.iodr.co.uk - we’ll be sure to keep him updated with news of your kind support throughout his upcoming expeditions.

If Bob’s story inspires you, why not support IODR with your own fundraising efforts, either individually or by getting together with others at home

or in the workplace. Activities to raise money could include cake sales, quizzes and karaoke nights, or you could follow in Bob’s footsteps and undergo a personal challenge such as running a marathon or embarking on a trek yourself!

However you decide to help, every penny raised will go towards one of IODR’s initiatives to protect and sustain lives following natural disasters.

T o s u p p o r t I O D R in i t i a tives, to donate or to find out more, visit www.iodr.co.uk

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READERS’ VOICE

www.asian-voice.com AsianVoiceNews

Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

Reforming their society Jatindra Saha observes that only Muslims can reform their society, can be motivated to think positive and refrain from radicalisation/ terrorism. There is powerful divisive propaganda in Muslim world, which results in unsavory actions.

This is buttressed by Biblical prophecy that sons of Abraham will be perpetual enemies. Modern day powers advocate that weapons are vital for existence and survival.

Muslims world must see through damage by weapons of mass destruction and turn towards nonviolence and all inclusive, fraternal sentiments.

Therefore, effective method will be to stop all export of arms by selfish super powers. All Muslims must be persuaded that they have no enemies at home or abroad; attractive western glamour can be replicated at home.

Muslims must invite, in large numbers, experts to create infrastructure to enhance safety, security and welfare of all citizens of Muslim countries. Muslims must be motivated to inculcate dignity and pride in their own homelands.

This, combined with lifelong care, security and welfare at home can be deterrent to radicalization. Self-sufficient Muslims would not need to migrate anywhere. Only happy and secure humanity can carry the message of prophets to future generations. Universal human accord can be achieved by nonviolence.

Ramesh Jhalla By email

Ditch the desk for a walk

New research has revealed that office workers need to do twice as much exercise as other adults to reduce their risk of premature death - and has recommended walking more (Published in The Lancet medical journal, reported 28 July).

Environmental pressures, such as desk jobs, make healthy choices difficult. However, inactivity is making people unhealthy and unhappy; accounting for one in six deaths in the UK and costing the health service up to £10billion a year. One way or another, we need to introduce more activity into our lives – and walking is an easy way to do this.

We want to create a walking nation. Just a 20 minute walk a day can provide noticeable physical and mental health benefits, reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers, stroke and depression.

Employers should ensure their staff feel able to go for walks and encourage them to do so. They will be rewarded with a happier and healthier workforce – bringing with it cost savings on sick pay, and employees who return from a walk feeling refreshed and motivated.

Tompion Platt, Head of Policy and Communications, Living Streets

Independence Day

Independence Day represents the true spirit of independent India and marks the patriotic fervour of all Indians across the country who celebrates this event with great enthusiasm year after year. On the occasion of Independence Day, we must remember the sacrifices made by those Indians who fought bravely for a liberated India.

But it seems that the Gandhian ideals that inspired India’s independence struggles are no longer followed by the citizens today.

Each and every one of us respects Mahatma Gandhi and proudly addresses him as the ‘Father of the Nation’, but no one is prepared to tread the path adopted by him. Independence Day is a day for us to celebrate with the hoisting of our national flag, recitation of our national anthem, singing patriotic songs and organising social and cultural events.

Jubel D’Cruz, Mumbai, India

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Gujarat caste violence

Plastic bag revolution

The recent violence against Dalits in Una, Gujarat, is not only wrong it is the most despicable act of social intolerance. The Dalits’ sin as perceived by the so-called upper caste Hindus is that they skinned four dead cows.

Therefore they had to be taught a lesson so that they don’t do it again. The inhuman and barbaric beating of Dalits is supposed to do with ‘gau raksha’ – protection of cows.

During summer season in India every year a large number of stray animals die because of very high temperature and lack of water and vegetation. These so called ‘gau raksha’ upper caste Hindus do nothing to protect starving cows.

But they become very concerned when they are dead.

They could have addressed the issue through dialogue and discussion. Instead they resorted to commit violence.

This nature, this psychology is uncivilised and against the interest of Hinduism and Hindu society.

What are Hindu problems? Hinduism teaches Advaita – the philosophy of non-dualism or oneness. In practical life they practice caste discrimination and social inequality. It is the caste discrimination that has led many Hindus converting to Islam and Christianity. This has been going on for many thousands of years.

Jatindra Saha By email

Continued from page 1

So often England lags far behind the world when it comes to taking bold steps, as British people are set in their ways, unable and unwilling to change, no matter how beneficial this could be. We were one of the last countries to introduce 5p charge for plastic bags. It only happened due to pressure piled upon government by a leading national newspaper, as supermarkets were against it and businesses have undue influence on government policies. The report just published shows usage down by 85%. It has also raised £29 million, as money raised by 5p charge is donated to charities.

Widespread usage of plastic is curse, especially on marine wildlife, especially dolphins and turtles that swallow it believing it to be jelly fish and meet painful, untimely deaths. It is time government scrap concession granted to small shopkeepers; raise it to 10p that may further reduce usage, as many countries without such exceptions have reduced usage by 95%. Another change that government is unwilling to introduce due to pressure from drink industry is higher price for drinks with high alcohol content that may reduce alcohol related crimes and illnesses such as liver-chloroses that costs a fortune to NHS. Kumudini Valambia By email

UK NEWS

two of his drivers from the Government Car Services, which cost about £6.3mn a year.

Image makers Isabel Spearman, Thea Rogers, Lena Pietsch, Neil O'Brien have been also nominated for an OBE and Beverley Jane Robertson has been nominated for an MBE. Widow of the Chairman of the West Oxfordshire Conservative

The most embarrassing faux pas for Mr Cameron has perhaps been the rejection by independent advisory committee of a recommended award for Michael Spencer, who raised an estimated £70mn for the Conservative party.

Successor Prime Minister Theresa May has however failed to endorse the controversial resignation honours list. Downing Street reportedly said the Prime Minister would not intervene in the official process because it would "set a very bad precedent".

However, Downing Street did not deny that Mrs May could block the controversial list at a later date, The Telegraph has reported.

Mr Cameron's nominations include remain camp supporters such as Philip Hammond and David Lidington who are in line to receive a KCMG, along with Hugo Swire. Other nominations include Michael Fallon for a knight commander of the Order of the Bath, a Patrick knighthood for Samantha Cameron with former 'stylist' McLoughlin, a CBE for Gavin Isabel Spearman Williamson and Will Straw, Nick Herbert and Daniel Korkski, an OBE for Charlotte Association Nicola Shale is also up Todman and the proposed list of for an MBE, according to the leaked information. Natasha Whitmill, Dames include Arabella Warburton Cameron's election agents in and Caroline Spelman.

Whitney is nominated for an OBE Civil Servants Helen Bower, the and a CBE for Britain's richest man Prime Minister's official spokesperTony Gallagher. son, is also in line of receiving a CBE. Former Downing Street director On the leaked list there is a knightCraig Oliver is up for an honour, hood for Simon Case, an OBE for Tim Kiddell, a Companion of the along with CBEs for Graeme Wilson, Order of bath for Nicholas Howard his press secretary and No 10 aide Ramsay Jones. Kathryn Jenknins is and MBEs for Martha Gutierrez Verez and Sean Stores which were up for an OBE as is Sheridan

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Westlake, Alamn Sendorek and Julian Glover. The head of Broadcasting Caroline Preston is set for an MBE along with Tory tax free childcare policy architect Laura Trott, Giles Media adviser Kenningham, adviser Adam Atashzai, Kate Shouesmith, think tank deputy director Nick Seddon, the journalist turned Mr Cameron's speech writer Jessica Cunniffe, Richard Parr, Richard Jackson and adviser Martha Varney.

In 1976 Harold Wilson left Downing Street with a list of people wished to be honoured to mark his resignation as the PM. The nomination list included controversial business figures which became known as the Lavender List of Honours and is central to the way Mr Wilson and his premiership is now remembered.

That painful experience should have been a warning for Mr Cameron.

The reported honours list has two serious flaws: one political and one personal. As the Telegraph pointed out, the political error is to favour supporters of the Remain camp. Brexit is over, results are settled. It is the duty of all politicians to unite behind the nation now.This underlines political division that are unhelpful and out of date. The personal mistake includes seeking honours for family retainers. Now his achievements as a Prime Minister is undermined by suspicion of cronyism.

However, the spirit of the critics have been left broken, when told that Sir Philip Green will not be stripped of his Knighthood (as yet), especially when they heard Larry, the famous Downing Street cat will not receive an honour!

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11

Students face detention as their Migrants found living in horrible conditions parents fail to pay for lunch A free school headmistress has been criticised on the internet for her rather harsh dealing of kids whose parents fail to pay the school lunch money.

Katharine Birbalsingh, head of Michaela community school in Wembley, London, sent parents a deemingly threatening letter about punishing pupils with "lunch isolation" if their lunch payments weren't made on time.

The letter posted on Twitter by a parent, read, "You are currently £75 overdue. If this full amount is not received within this week you child will be placed into Lunch Isolation. They will receive a Sandwich and a piece of fruit only.

They will spend the entire sixty minutes period in lunch isolation.

Only when the entire outstanding sum is paid in full will they be allowed into family lunch with their classmates."

Another parent, Dionne Kelly said, "I found the letter quite threatening. Isolating children for their parents not paying upfront is degrading. It's embarassing for poor families." She said she had already paid the money by the time she received the letter, but her 12 year old boy was punished nevertheless. The school boasts of a "zero tolerance discipline" system and strict academic principles.

'Family Lunch' is a term that refers to Michaela's timetabled lunch break, where children are charged £2.50 a day for meals with pay-

Katharine Birbalsingh

ment required upfront.

The 'Superhead' however, remains unapologetic of the policy saying parents who refuse to pay are betraying their children's education. "Should we charge a poor single mum twice so she can pay for Jonny just becase she has a sense of personal responsibility and Jonny's mother doesn't?"

Birbalsingh asked. "Free school meals looks after the poorest. Even then we have all sorts of system for people who really are in financial need, and I mean the real ones. I don't mean the ones who are playing the system, trying to get other families to pay for their child's food."

"We’ve got three families in the whole of the school where this is the case. They are all families who are betraying their children. One we are reporting to social services," she said.

Birbalsingh drew attention to herself in 2010, when she described states schools as "utterly chaotic" in a speech at the Conservative party conference.

Thirty one migrants were found living in severe conditions in a four bedroom house in northwest London. 26 beds were found stuffed wretchedly in the house, along with a bed infested with rodents, in a garden shack made from wood offcuts. Brent Council confirmed all 31 people lived there at the same time.

Spencer Randolph, head of private housing services, Brent Council, said they were "paying somewhere between £60 and £65 a week. So we're looking at an income on this property of £1,500 a week which is around £80,000 a year. It's dreadful to think that somebody could be exploited to living in what isn't even a shed." One of the tenants, Bagharad, said he lived in the house on Napier Road because he worked as a carer for the elderly and was only paid £30 a day. Another migrant, from India, said he would rather live in the cramped conditions than return to India.

"We've seen pest-ridden

slums and even beds in sheds before, but this is a new low.

The shack looks like something you would expect to see in a Hollywood depiction of a shanty town, not Zone 4 of London. Criminal landlords cannot and will not get away with this," said Harbi Farah, Brent Council's lead member for housing. "The people who pay the heaviest price in the worst

rogue landlord cases are their tenants, who pay over the odd for sub-standard accomodation and live in cramped, hazardous conditions."A council spokesman said the landlord had applied for a landlord license stating only seven people would be living at one time.

He/she would be soon prosecuted for offences under the housing act.

12

MEDIA WATCH

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid fulsome tribute to President Pranab Mukherjee’s ability to reach out to people with diverse backgrounds and cultures and establish a relationship of trust and mutual respect. In this context, he said certain States may have doubts about central government schemes, hence a reluctance to abide by them. Bridges of understanding must be built for national concord and stability.

‘The contribution of President Mukherjee to India was immense,’ said Mr Modi, and so too was the personal experience and wisdom he had brought to his office. From the President people could learn how to handle relationships with fellow citizens from diverse political backgrounds and harness their strengths towards the fulfilment of a common purpose, be it in renewable energy, water conservation or digital India.

All these causes had been implemented in Rashtrapati Bhavan. with the school attack in Peshawar on 14 December 2014, children have often been perceived as soft targets,’ he said (Times of India, Hindu July 26)

Milk Revolution

A new bovine fertility technique being implemented for the first time on a commercial basis in President Shri Pranab Mukherjee and PM Narendra Modi inaugurating the new Rashtrapati India, promises to Bhavan Museum, in New Delhi on July 25, 2016. usher in second Also seen, Vice President, Shri M. Hamid Ansari. ‘Milk Revolution, the first having been The Prime Minister was pioneered by the legendary speaking at the inauguration of a Verghese Kurien decades ago in new museum, a range of new Gujarat, thence across India in books on diverse subjects, a ‘Operation Flood.’ micro-site and a hop-on, hop-off bus at Rashtrapati Bhavan as Chhattisgarh part of the celebrations to mark The in-vitro fertilization technolthe President’s four years of servogy initiative, formally launched ice to the country. He had made

by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister the place as accessible as possible Raman Singh can enhance the to the common man. Among milk yield of high-pedigree those present were Vice Indian-bred cows almost fivePresident Ansari, Chief Justice fold to 10 litres per cow every day.

Thakur of the Supreme Court of The technology introduced by JK India and leading public figures.

Trust, in line with the central President Mukherjee in reply government’s mission, the explained how little he actually upgrading indigenous breeds of knew about the work and duties cattle, will rapidly multiply the of a president, although as a high-pedigree Indian-breed cow politician and minister of 43 population (Business Line July years his activities were conduct21) ed only a stone’s throw away in Parliament and the secretariat.

He has proved to be good learner Five diabetic drugs and an exemplar of what a public in top sales list servant should be. He has pressed repeatedly for reasoned and Insulin brand Mixtant, oral forrespectful discourse on the floor mulation Glycomet GP insulin of the legislature and at the husLantus, oral formulations Galvus tings. Democracy can only prosMet and Janumet are now in the per when MPs set an example of top-selling list of drugs in India. democratic conduct. ( Mint, Overall, the anti-diabetic therapy Times of India July 25, 26) - estimated at around Rs 8,500 crore – is the fifth largest in the Stiffening approach organized pharmaceutical retail market, growing at a healthy rate on Pakistan of 12 per cent annually. This is attributable to improved methIndian diplomats stationed in ods of diabetic detection, but it Pakistan have been advised by also underscores the high incithe Ministry of External Affairs dence of diabetes in the country to withdraw their children from (Times of India July 21) Pakistani schools and bring them home, as the country is increasingly unsafe for Indian personnel HDFC surge and their families. Islamabad will no longer be designated as a famHousing Development Finance ily posting. The Pakistan governCorporation (HDFC), one of ment has been asked to provide India’s foremost lenders contingreater security to Indian High ues its high trajectory profit marCommission in Pakistan’s capital gins by registering a 20.2 per cent city. rise in earnings in the first quarter of the current fiscal (AprilJune).The bank’s balance sheet Peshawar tragedy (total assets) increased from Rs 6.29 lakh crore in the first quarThe move was precautionary, ter of the last fiscal to Rs 7.55 said an Indian official. Soft tarLakh crore in the first quarter of gets abound in Pakistan. ‘Starting

the current fiscal. Few private banks including HDFC have been in a sweeter spot, thanks largely to the higher exposure to the retail segment and its focus on working capital financing in the corporate sector (Business Line July 22)

UNESCO honours India

Sikkim’s Kanchenjunga National Park has been named a world heritage site by the World Heritage Committee of UNESCO. The Kanchenjunga Park is the first ‘mixed’ (combining features of natural and cul-

Tourists in Ladakh

cool air and sights and sounds of nearby Darjeeling beckoned invitingly. Recently, travellers have discovered the pleasures of a holiday in Buddhist-populated L a d a k h .

Wondrous sights, wonderfully friendly locals: such is Ladakh. A direct flight from Delhi to Leh, Ladakh’s capital, will avoid jihadi Srinagar.. Ladakh is now increasingly popular with European tourists (Telegraph July 23) Sikkim Kanchenjunga National Park

tural significance) heritage site from India to make it to the list.

The Park, which covers 25 per cent of the territory of Sikkim, is an awesome manifestation of natural diversity, from the magnificent snow-clad Himalayan mountain – the world’s thirdhighest to lowlands and steep valleys, besides numerous lakes and valleys.

India, Russia defence ties deepen

One of the major projects before the Indian Defence Ministry involves a Russian designed nuclear-powered aircraft carrier project 2300 ‘Storm’. The concept vessel was developed at the Krylovsky research centre along with the Nevsky engineering company. The carrier has a disNalanda, Chandigarh placement of 100,000 tonnes, will be 300 metres long and 40 The archaeological monuments metres wide. It will be capable of of the ancient Buddhist Nalanda accommodating 4000 to 5000 University in Bihar was also crew and 100 aircraft, including marked as a heritage site, as was the futurist Fifth Generation the Capitol Complex in Fighter Aircraft. India-Russia cooperation is set to cover the supply to India of Tu22M3 longr a n g e bombers and two nuclearpowered Akula II submarines (Shuka-B Corbusier’s designed Capitol complex, Chandigarh project 971) which Is Chandigarh, Punjab/Haryana, keen to lease-purchase (Russia which includes the Legislative India Report July 22) Assembly, Secretariat and High Court is the masterpiece of the Joint production iconic French architect Le Corbusier. ‘It is a moment of Oleg Sienko, General Director of pride for our city. The Russia’s Uralvagonzavod compa[Chandigarh] administration ny and Bharat Forge CEO, Baba assures residents that we will Kalyani, have signed a conserve and preserve this Memorandum of Understanding Heritage Site and make the city a for the establishment of a co-promajor international tourism desduction unit for the manufacture tination,’ said Parimal Rai, of self-propelled artillery systems Adviser to the Union Territory’s in India. ‘We plan to gradually Administration (Hindu July 18) transfer the documentation as part of the Make in India project Better ‘Leh’d’ than never to jointly produce the installation,; said Oleg Sienko (Russia The forbidding heights of freezIndia Report July 14) . ing Ladakh may be a tour of duty for frontline units of the Indian BrahMos sales Army and Air Force, but for a growing line of Bengalis, long Russia has given India discreaccustomed to fleeing the heat tionary rights to sell their jointly and humidity of their tropical manufactured BrahMos superhabitat on the Ganges plain, the

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sonic cruise missile to any country of India’s choice.

The original required that both partners would affix formally to a common list of would-be buyers.

Russia has waived that right, paving the way for its purchase by V i e t n a m , Indonesia, South Africa, Brazil and Chile. (Russia India Report July 22).

Vietnam is first in line with the deepening crisis in the South China Sea. A writer in the Telegraph likened India’s ties with Vietnam to China’s with Pakistan. India has gold to China’s dung.

India-US discover huge gas field

An Indo-US geological expedition in the Bay of Bengal discovered a massive field of natural gas, opening up a new resource to meet their energy needs. It is believed to be the most comprehensive gas hydrate field in the world to date. Natural gas hydrates are a natural ice-like substance of natural gas and water in ocean and polar regions.

This global resource greatly exceeds all known conventional gas volumes. The next steps will determine if natural gas production is feasible and economic (Hindu July 27)

Maruti beats market expectations

India’s largest passenger car maker Maruti Suzuki India has recorded a standalone net profit of Rs 1,486 crore for the first quarter of the current fiscal (April-June), a rise of 23 per cent compared with the same period last year. ’The profit in the quarter was helped by higher turnover, material cost reduction, higher non-operating income and lower depreciation,’ said a company statement.(Business Line July 27)

No trace of missing plane

A double-engine AN 32 transport plane with 29 passengers and crew on board that went missing last week, when on a flight from Chennai to Port Blair in the Andaman, has not yet been found despite extensive searches by ships, a submarine and aircraft.

British Minister Aloke Sharma in Delhi. see comment page 3

UK Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

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13

An ode to the fallen un-sung Sikh heroes Tanya Datta

The Sikh Regiment

Sikh soldiers in the British Army have been around since 1843 ever since they were recruited, when the British Empire conquered the Sikh Empire. By 1914, even though Sikhs represented just 1% of the population of British India they made up 20% of the British Indian Army.

things that were ordered for the Sikh soldiers were unstitched plain cloth for turbans and coconut oil for hair.

Khalsa Ritual

The four prohibitions or mandatory restrictions of the Khalsa are: (1) Not to cut hair any natural growing hair (2) Eating Kutha meat or meat of an animal slaughtered in the Muslim halal or Jewish kosher way (3) Cohabiting with a person other than one's spouse (4) Using tobacco or hookah.

The uniform of a Singh/Kaur of the Khalsa comprises the Five

During WW1, they heavily influenced the way the British Army fought and were known for their bravery. Some of these influences include ordering miniature religious scriptures of the Guru Granath Sahib to hospital depots around France and Belgium, ordering weaponry that were typically used by the Sikh army such Kirpins (daggers), Chakrams and taller swords. Among the other

Ks: (1) Kesh – Uncut hair on the face, head, and all parts of the body.

(2) Kanga - A wooden comb.

(3) Kara - An iron bracelet.

(4) Kacchera – A pair of drawers (a specific type of cotton underwear).

(5) Kirpan – A dagger or sword.

Not only that, but Sikh bathing rituals in the camp outside Marseilles were readily accepted and spe-

cial cremations were held for the Hindu and Sikh soldiers that fell in battle. Not only that but Sikhs were allowed to wear the turban in battle without a helmet and a British officer even wrote that some Sikhs picked bullets out of their turbans. It was a common sight to see Sikh regiments in around battlefields and this included the famous Flanders battlefield. Sikh soldiers have had a permanent influence in history as recently on Bastille Day, in France, Sikhs and other Indians took part in a parade including along the famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées.

itage. He spent three years documenting Sikh soldiers during WW1 by travelling around India, Pakistan and London reaching out to the Sikh communities on any information he could find. Their work has had an overwhelming amount of support over the years as many have contacting him to share their relative's military stories.

He and his co-founder of UKPHA Amandeep Madra was awarded by the previous Prime Minister David Cameron for their efforts in fostering interest in Sikh and Punjabi heritage, with particular mention of the Empire, Faith and War project which had released their new website last month and its aims to

encourage the public to volunteer as Citizen Historians.

Fallen Soliders:

away from our homes for such a long time that we had not had an opportunity to get our beards shaved.

Consequently, when they met a Sikh they would sympathetically offer to shave him. When they came to know that these were Sikhs and they do not cut their hair and beards, they were amazed.”

Harnam Singh, unpublished memoir, November 1914

Harnam Singh One such story is Harnam Singh where his family has recently released his memoirs describing his experiences in the battlefield as he fought in the 30th Lancers in France and Mesopotamia.

“Seeing us Sikhs they [the French] probably thought that we had been

The Empire, Faith and War Project

Natha Singh Nathan Singh was from the1st Patiala Rajinder Sikh Infantry and as a musketry instructor in Egypt he set shooting records. He was one of the best shooters as he set shooting records in competitions against soldiers from across the British Empire.

Recognising these heroes has been due to the work of Premijit Sigh a historian and founding member of the UK Punjab Heritage Association (UKPHA) dedication to the preservation of Sikh and Punjab her-

TVIWIRXIH MR E FIWTSOI [EPPIX

14 COMMUNITY

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A rare honour for Lord Parekh Spriha Srivastava

In conversation with: Payal Ramchandani Payal Ramchandani, a trained kuchipudi dancer, recently performed at the Nehru Centre. She speaks to Asian Voice about her career, her passion and why she chose kuchipudi.

Dance is referred to as one of the purest forms of art. Like other art forms, dance too gives a sense of achievement and satisfaction to the artist. I caught up with this very talented kuchipudi dancer to know more about her and what dance means to her as a career.

Why did you choose Kuchipudi? How is learning Kuchipudi different from other dances?

With Kuchipudi, it wasn’t love at first sight, love happened when I started courting it. I was merely four and the prime concern for my parents’ was-Gurus who could impart knowledge directly

How did you decide on dancing as a career?

I always knew from a very early age that I wanted to be a dancer, so even though I have done my architecture, leaving dance to only practice architecture was never an option. Dance has always been my first love, hence the most obvious career choice. Over my 25 years

Vachika abhinaya aspect, where the expression is conveyed through speech, a prominent feature used in drama, and hence Kuchipudi, which has its roots laid in the above.

How do you feel about performing in the UK? Even though it hasn’t been too long since I have moved here, the experience so far has been a satisfying one. I have worked alongside some very fine people and some very

of Hull and increased the prestige of the Indian community.

In his response Lord Parekh said that when he first came to Hull he could have hardly imagined that he would one day becomes its Honorary Freeman. He thanked the University for the great freedom and opportunities it had given him for his academic work. He then went on to pay a great tribute to the city of Hull for its non-conformist history, its warmth, its capacity to throw up such great men

as William Wilberforce and Philip Larkin without being overawed by them, and its quiet and unpretentious way of carrying pockets of excellence.

He said he had always been proud to be a resident of Hull and his new status had intensified that feeling.

The ceremony was attended by Councillors, eminent residents of Hull and Lord Parekh’s family and friends. Lord Parekh is one of the few Indians to have received Freedom of the City in which they have lived.

Leadership and spiritual intelligence talk by Pujya Swami Paramatmanada Saraswatiji

Photo courtesy: Sharad Sharma

Tell us about yourself in brief?

I am a Kuchipudi dancer from Delhi, India and have recently moved to the UK. My training began at the age of four under Gurus Raja & Radha Reddy, then Gurus Jayarama Rao & Vanashree Rao and I am currently a disciple of Guru Jaikishore Mosalikanti.

I have performed extensively in India and outside India at major national and international festivals, conferences and have also raised funds for charity. Amongst the most recent ones are my performances in Germany, Netherlands, Mauritius, Canada, and Dubai. I also propagate Kuchipudi through various organisations amongst the younger generation in schools and colleges in both rural and urban areas across India .I am an empanelled artist of ICCR and a graded artist with Doordarshan, India’s state broadcaster.

In the UK, I have started Mrija in Newcastle, which is an initiative to propagate Kuchipudi amongst all nationalities and age groups and bring to the fore, the beauty of this art form through the medium of performances and workshops

of training under my Gurus, it has grown on me tremendously to make it so.

At a moving ceremony and the banquet following it on 21st July, Hull City Council has conferred the rare 'Honour of Freedom of the City' on Lord Bhikhu Parekh.

Lord Parekh, a world famous political theorist, was born in the village of Amalsad in the province of Gujarat, India. He was made a Life Peer in 2000 and has been a recipient of several awards and accolades.

During the past 100 years or so the Hull City Council has conferred this'Honour of Freedom of the City' only on about 20 eminent individuals Nelson including Mandela, Bishop Tutu and Lord Prescott. The citation on a scroll contained in a silver casket referred to Professor Parekh’s valuable services to the city, the esteem in which he is held both in the U.K. and in India, and the way in which he has enhanced the global standing of the University

Payal Ramchandani

(which has been a rarity in Delhi).I thusly landed under the guidance of Gurus Raja & Radha Reddy where I received my initial training.

My fondness for Kuchipudi grew with this understanding that I developed over the years.

Its crisp vocabulary punctuated with enrapturing stances, its vivacity that has the ability to grab the attention of even those with short attention spans. Its evolution from it being a male dominated dance form, to one being performed by women as well, has seen and beautifully imbibed both the tandava and lasya aspects maturing into an absolutely distinct style.

Kuchipudi to me is what we could call a ‘peoples’ art’ due to its origin and portrayal through the characteristic lok-dharmi (non-stylized) nuances, retaining its elegance and fluidity along with its contrasting vibrancy. Its use of the realistic, un-stylized form of abhinaya (expression) establishes an intrinsic and immediate connect with the audience.

Kuchipudi has also been able to preserve the

reputed organizations like GemArts( Newcastle), Dance City( Newcastle), British Council, Nehru Centre, Sama Arts Newtork amongst others for performances, workshops and classes to establish Kuchipudi as dance form in the North. My dance studio, Mrija has also collaborated with some of these organizations to educate people of all nationalities and age groups about the versatility of Kuchipudi.

What advice do you have for young people looking to make a career in dance?

Being an artist, I can firmly say that two very important qualities that one needs to possess in order to make a career in dance are ‘patience’ and focused and dedicated ‘hard work’. The initial stages in one’s career can be very trying and the only thing that would help you sail is patience. It is equally important to work hard in the right direction under the right guidance.

Last but not the least, the desire to learn more and more should be kept alive, ALWAYS.

Let us know what you think.

Email Spriha at aveditorial@abplgroup.com

On the banks of the Thames, overlooking the Houses of Parliament, Pujya Swami Paramat manada Saraswatiji gave an insightful talk about, Leadership and spiritual intelligence. The audience, a select group of MP’s, Business people, Media and devotees alike packed into the Portcullis House’s Attlee Suite.

Among the many things explained and discussed in the 2 hour talk was the question, what is spirituality? which according to the swamiji was a mix of Integrity and intelligence along with emotional maturity.

Speaking about leadership and success he said it was all geared towards gaining more more, more power and more recognition in society. He said to nurture and support your team to improve their self confidence. The ideal leader is not someone who visualises, idealises, or makes strategies and plans, the ideal leader is someone who helps the growth of the people. The real capital of the company is the people who work with you and the price of that capital is that they themselves should grow and they themselves should feel that they have grown.

This related more for the business people who were present, explaining that globalization and lib-

Swamiji speaking with Saliesh Vara MP and Mr Vijay Goel

eralization is not just a global competition but is global war and there needs to be a change in the processes and production of output if they must succeed. Using an analogy that a merger in business is nothing but a big fish eating a small fish. In this belief of competition, that more is best, targets of employees keep increasing which creates a greater risk of failure and creates stress and fear in the person which eventually could lead to a complete breakdown. He also spoke about the hangover of the office, at home as many people in effect bring work home. He joked that today’s marriages are hungover as both husband and wife work, therefore they bring work home and the office hangover prevails.

Speaking about the creator and the creation, he said, the Lord is the

creator and the material out of which it is creation.

There is an order in creation and everything has a cause and effect, that’s why scientists do their work, to understand.

These laws of creation and destruction are infallible and impartial but the structure is equal, opposite and impartial. He says that life is never black or white but is rather its grey.

He welcomes failure just as he welcomes success.

Among the profound things mentioned in the talk. He said situations are purely subjective according to the swamiji, using the analogy that a peda, if given by a friend or family, is a sweet, however if the same peda is offered in a temple, that becomes prasad. He explained that the giver is more important than the gift received and that the quantity or the quality didn't matter.

SP

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In Brief AsianVoiceNews

Fraudsters stole £17,500 and gave back 10p

Annette Jefferys, a NatWest customer was scammed by fraudsters into giving them £17,500 but the bank gave her only 10p. The fraudsters were able to generate an authentic “activation code” for her bank account. Exploiting a weakness in the NatWest system the culprits first locked the bank account and then obtain a code to unlock it by using publicly available information. This case is is among many as new figures show that fraud now accounts for more than half of all crime.

The culprits posed was NatWest employees, called Ms Jefferys and said her account was under attack by fraudsters and she would have to transfer money to another account.

While such a scam is common, the difference this time was that they didn't ask Ms Jefferys to make the transfer immediately. The most convincing part of incident was when the fraudsters asked her to long into her online banking account while they were on the call. As they had already frozen the account she couldn't log in. They were able to assure her they would send an “activation code” which would enable her to access her account again.

In the meanwhile they took out £17,500 by impersonating Ms Jeffreys on the NatWest website. She realised it was a scam when they called the following day and said they would pay compensation into the account for the inconvenience, a tune of £1000.

TV bingeing can be fatal

Spending hours in front of the TV can be fatal according to scientists. Researchers have found binge viewing raises the risk of dying from a blood clot in the lungs. A Japanese team examined the viewing habits of over 86,000 people aged between 40-79 between the years of 1988-1990. The team found every additional two hours watching TV per day raised the risk of fatal pulmonary embolism by 40%.

People watching over 5 hours of TV daily were twice as likely to die than those who watch less than 2.5 hours.

During the follow-up period lasting 19 years, a total of 59 deaths pulmonary embolism were recorded.

Pulmonary embolism is a dangerous condition, linked to inactivity and slowed blood flow. It usually begins with deep vein thromboses, a clot, in the leg or pelvis that breaks free and gets logged in the small blood vessel of the lungs. More than a quarter of people with an untreated pulmonary embolism die which can be sudden.

Precautions taken can be to stand up, stretch, walk around or while you’re watching TV, tense and relax your muscles for five minutes according to Professor Hrioyasu Iso of Osaka University, the lead researcher of the study.

15

Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

Paint job on historic pier, halted

Known to his critics as ‘Goldfinger’ because for his love of gold and gold painted things. Self-styled sheikh Abid Gulzar has been stopped in his attempts to repaint the historic Eastbourne Pier by authorities. The Indian-born hotelier attempted to paint the pier’s cupola gold without prior permission.

The rejuvenation of the pier is the latest in a series of plans by Mr Gulzar. He caused anger when he announced dogs, cycling, fishing and picnics would be banned from the pier. Mr Gulzar who own a chain of hotels bought Eastbourne Pier for a “knockdown” price of £1million after it was almost gutted by fire two years ago. Current protests began when he painted parts of the Grade II listed pier gold, inlacing the dome on the Camera Obscura and 40 lions adorning the original ironwork. Michael Harris, who has led the campaign against the changes said “Mr Gulzar has got an ego bigger than the pier, and is hell-bent on getting rid of activities and pastimes which have been in place for more than century.” The principle inspector of ancient monuments at Historic England, Peter Kendall said, “The new owner is bound by the restrictions that apply to all Grade II listed buildings, but also by council planning laws. However piers are not ornaments and need to function and be viable to their private owners so changes that are reasonable could well be allowed.” Eastbourne Pier opened in 1870 and is among Britain’s historic piers and the best example on the south coast. In August 2014 the pier was engulfed in a huge blaze, with fire fighters battling for days to keep the flames under control.

TLIGHT

Yogesh Datta: Simply Select

AsianVoiceNewsweekly

I believe all chefs are artists Sunetra Senior

There is a composed yet playful air about multi-award winning chef Yogesh Datta, and it really comes as no surprise. All the best cuisinieres are able to offer up a unique technique to the world, experimenting with ageold recipes and throwing in new ingredients for good measure, but being his accomplished self, Yogesh whisks this formula one step further. Receiving such recognition as the Remy Martin Award and being noted the Best Chef by the Curry Club Guide, he has not just brought a fresh cooking spin to our tables but helped shape an entire tradition: “When we opened my latest restaurant, Bangalore Express City, in 2009 it was to provide modern and more affordable Indian food at a very fast pace. We set the precedent for that kind of approachable Indian cuisine – now popularised with franchises such as Dishoom on the market - which you could enjoy in a relaxed and friendly environment.” Perfecting his grasp of classical Indian cooking, which he picked up working for the Taj Group and Sheraton Hotels in India, Yogesh seriously trained as a French chef in Switzerland before finally moving to London where he brought his emerging starlight – or should we say gaslight – to top city establishments such as Tabla at Canary Wharf and The Painted Heron on Cheyne Walk in Chelsea. So, Yogesh straightforwardly shows us, sometimes the secret to professional success is simply to be: “I believe all chefs are artists,” he aptly added: “You’ve got to be born with a je ne sais quois from within – that’s what ultimately spurs you on.”

What exactly defines your signature cooking?

I discovered it properly when I was working at the Painted Heron Restaurant, which was opened in 2002.

This, along with a select few others, led the way for modern Indian cooking. It wasn’t so much authentic cooking from India as we used local methods and fresh ingredients as well. If you take a fish curry dish, for example, you might have a lot of it with a very thin consistency, and the fish is just swimming in sauce. What we started to do was to make it more eye-appealing: we would use very good quality fish which was filleted and cooked separately and it wouldn’t be drowning in oil. We cooked it to just the right amount. In short, it was Indian cooking with a very practical twist: we identified what was not quite working with traditional preparations and adapted it for a contemporary palate. Purists might not be happy, but I think it’s important to adapt.

What would you say has been the single greatest influence on your cooking?

My training as a French chef: it really informs how I experiment with my cooking. I can see outside of the box and identify what perhaps a traditionally trained Indian chef couldn’t. For example we tend to stick to either fish or prawns when it comes to seafood, not daring to push further. I’m not afraid to use scallops, and soft shell and king crabs.

What’s a unique service offered at Bangalore Express City?

The menu has evolved since we started because it always relates to customer demands. A traditionally rooted dish is the curry matrix which is popular

in Bangalore: you choose a meat, for example fish or chicken, and how exactly you would want it cooked e.g. mild or spicy. That’s been the best-selling section of the menu for the last 8 or 9 years.

Name some refined techniques that you really enjoy using?

Using a combi oven where you cook with steam instead of dry heat. It’s a good way to preserve moisture and cook the selected food through and through. There’s also cooking on induction which has less oil and fat, and I’ll use modern ceramic pans. I

As India becomes more confident as a nation, our cooks have more confidence to project themselves adapt the cooking methods and make use of what is available and being tried in other cuisines. Finally, there’s the thermomix method for very smooth chutneys where the flavour is retained more than perhaps with an old-style stone grinder.

What is your favourite part of the cooking process?

Well, the secret behind Indian cooking is the spicing right? The type of spices are the same in all dishes, but it’s the

timing of when you add them that creates the different flavours: I love the fact that I can play around with 5 or 6 spices, just by putting them in at various points and changing the whole intricacy of the dish.

What’s an important tip for young chefs who are starting out?

Unless you love what you do you cannot be a good chef. The right training and where you train during your initial years is also very important.

Were you always interested in cooking?

If you interview most chefs, they will say yes and tell you that their passion was stoked from watching their mothers in the kitchen: my story is no different. I was the youngest sibling out of 5 and the only one to help my mother with the large groups she would have to cater for: she was a brilliant cook. I never thought I’d take it on as a profession but it always called to me. I went into hotel management hoping to work in the front office, but following just one year of service I realised my heart was in the kitchen! That’s when I went to train in Switzerland and my journey as a professional chef began.

Is there anything in particular about the atmosphere of your dining establishments that complement your food?

In the past, we’ve made a deliberate effort to move away from the clichéd idea of a curry house with ornamental elephants and colourful wallpaper, but at this stage, as India becomes more confident as a nation - and our cooks have more confidence to project themselves - we have also started to add more of an Indian twist to our décor and the feel of the place.

Finally, what’s one misconception about being a chef that simply isn’t true?

That we’re fussy eaters at home! My kids are adults now, but there was many a trip to McDonalds when they were younger. I would also cook very simple Indian dishes for dinner. twitter.com/yogeshdatta

W

www.thepaintedheron.com

SPECIAL

Wonders of 16

WEST LONDON Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

With a population of 1.6 million, West London has a well known reputation for being a more affluent place and is one of the top areas of London. Many are known to Indians live in these areas all immigrated from varies places around the world such as East Africa, Jamaica, Gujarat and Mumbai.

Not only that but West London is also known for its variety of historical buildings and serene parks. A part of the Thames River runs across West London promising wonderful views and breathtaking architecture.

HOUNSLOW In Hounslow there are more than 27,000 Indian-born residents in the borough, the 2011 census reveals, compared with just over 15,000 when the national survey was last carried out in 2001.

Hounslow has the country's third highest proportion of Sikhs and the fifth highest percentage of Hindus and Buddhists.

THINGS TO DO 1. London Museum of Water and Steam Hounslow has one of London’s top suburban museums and is the guardian of our industrial heritage at the Water for Life gallery which shows us how Londoners have procured their water for the past two millennia and how it was used.

2. Syon Park Not just that but Hounslow also has the Great Conservatory at Syon Park which dates back before the Conservatory in Kew Gardens. Syon is one of the last grand houses of London which has been maintained for more than 400 years. This

place holds a vast wealth of art within its grand interiors, while the Park and Gardens gives you a hearty country feel even though you’re just a few minutes away from Charing Cross.

3. Chiswick house Another historical place one can visit in Hounslow is Chiswick house which is known for one the best architectures in London. The house and gardens, which occupy 65.1 acres was mainly created by architect and landscape designer William Kent and this is one of the earliest examples of the English landscape garden.

4. Hounslow Urban farm For children, families can go to the Hounslow Urban farm which spans across 29 acres of land. People are invited to enjoy a variety of farm animals such as pigs, goats, cows, rabbits, ducks, geese, alpacas, rheas and chipmunks.

Hounslow Urban Farm also participates in rare-breeds programmes to preserve farm animals in danger of disappearing in our age of intensive farming.

THINGS TO DO 1. Pitzhanger Manor House However, places to visit in Ealing is the grand and beautiful Pitzhanger Manor House and the park has some wonderful ornamental bridges, ponds, streams and a walled rose garden. During July and August there will be a multitude of festivals take place showcasing jazz, comedy and other performances.

Not only that but Ealing is also home to Bunny Park in Hanwell, and Acton Park which promises beautiful gardens.

Hammersmith and Fulham In this Borough, Indians and Bangladeshis make up 11% of the population. The borough was formed when it had been merged in 1965 and the area had only been finished being re-developed in 2008 with the opening of the Westfield shopping centre.

THINGS TO DO 1. Shopping A must see is the massive Westfield shopping centre.

Westfield London is famed for its luxurious shopping experience where you'll be spoilt for choice with a range of stores from Burberry to Schuh and beyond. However, King Street in Hammersmith has its own selection of great shops, and Fulham Broadway isn’t too bad either, both include chains and smaller independent shops. Another place to shop is the New Shepherds Bush Market and has a vast array items for sale from fresh produce to all the latest fashions. This market is easily accessible between Goldhawk Road and Shepherd's Bush Underground stations.

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2. Parks For nature lovers there are multiple parks one can visit around the area such as Putney Heath, Ravenscourt Park and Bishop's Park.

These can be perfect for family outings on a sunny day as they promise rustic features, gorgeous river views and away from city noises.

3. Fulham Palace For those interested in history they can visit Fulham palace where one can see 11th century architecture, wonderful walled gardens and vast grounds. Admission to the Palace and its grounds is free of charge and the grounds are open daily from dawn to dusk.

It is highly recommended that one must visit the cafe to try one of their delicious cakes.

4. Hammersmith bridge Another must see is the Hammersmith bridge which is a breathtaking gold and green which holds the title of the oldest suspension bridge in London. This can be spot-

ted on the charming Riverside Walk that will take you along one of the most picturesque stretches of the River Thames to Chiswick. Fulham is also known to be the home to the football team Chelsea.

EALING Ealing is another area with a high population of Asians as

it was known for its range of Gold jewellery and is one of the best places to go if you’relooking for Bridal wear.

Southall in Ealing has a thriving Punjabi and Gujarati community. The community first developed in the 1950s.

The Asian population makes up 80% of Southall Broadway ward as of 2011, a contrast compared to the 8% of Southfield ward in the borough's east.

Southall has a huge Punjabi community which is made evident by Southall Broadway, containing a fantastic selection of Indian restaurants, cinemas, clothing and food shops.

Wembley is home to a large Gujarati community, most are Hindus but there are also decent amount of Gujarati Muslims and a few Gujarati Sikhs. Punjabi migrants found work in the manufacturing, textile and the service sectors, including a significant number at Heathrow Airport in West London. In the Bengali community Ealing is host to one of largest Durga pujas in the UK that has been running for many

2. Authentic cuisines Ealing has one of the largest Polish communities in London and there’s the Magnolia Cafe, offering irresistible home made authentic Polish food. Ealing has a vast range of international cuisines such as the famous Nepalese restaurant called Monty's in Ealing Broadway and the Atariya Sushi bar which comes highly recommended, but remember to book early if you want a guaranteed place!

3. Southall markets In Southall market is a hybrid of a traditional market place and the essence of Indian culture. One can find a vast array goods on sale such as fresh produce, spices and sari fabrics however, the poultry and horse markets have now closed, after 300 years of trade. The Broadway is famous for the huge amount of shops selling sarees of every colour, small trinkets such as bangles for any occasion, food made freshly in front of your eyes. For all your Indian shopping needs Southall is the place to be.

4. Gurdwaras Sri Guru Sigh Sabh The Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabh is also situated in the borough and is the largest Gurdwara outside India which was established in 1950s. This was done to accommodate for the ever growing Sikh community in Southall. The Gurdwara site was inaugurated by HRH Prince of Wales Prince Charles. Since then many dignitaries such as Former

AsianVoiceNewsweekly

PrimeMinister Rt Hon Tony Blair, Archbishop of Canterbury and the leaders of all the Political Parties have visited the Gurdwara.

RICHMOND Richmond was founded following Henry VII's building of Richmond Palace in the 16th century, from which the town derives its name.The Asian population make up about 6.3% of the population of Richmond. With a third of the borough being green and open space which is five times more than any other borough in LondonRichmond has much to offer in terms of leisure activities such as boating, equestrian and some field sports.

THINGS TO DO 1. Royal Botanical Kew Gardens Richmond is home to the famous Royal Botanical Kew Gardens, it's a pleasure to walk through the serene gardens to look at the variety of flora they have. The newest greenhouses they have are interesting and modern with a lovely restaurant. In the Kew Gardens if they are brave enough one must try the Treetop Walkway stands in the Arboretum, between the Temperate House and the lake. The 18-metre high, 200-metre walkway enables visitors to walk around the crowns of various trees. The walkway provides opportunities for inspecting birds, insects, lichen and fungi at close quarters, as well as seeing blossom emerging and seed pods bursting open in spring.

2. Richmond Park Another landmark one can visit is Richmond Park which

was created by Charles I in the 17th century. Richmond Park includes many buildings of architectural or historic interest. For a little bit of British history one can visit Ham house which is situated by the Thames river.

Richmond is also famous for its aptly named Richmond Theatre, this beautiful little theatre has stunning ceilings, architecture and comfortable seats that runs plays throughout the year.

TRAVLIN STYLE

KENSINGTON & CHELSEA This borough is home to the Nottingham Hill Carnival, Europe's largest. It contains many of the most expensive residential districts in London and even in the

world and 10% Asian the borough consists of Indians.

In this borough one can find many famous spots such Harrods, the Chelsea flower show and the Nottingham Hill Carnival.

THINGS TO DO 1. Victoria and Albert Museum At the V&A in Room 41 you can find yourself cast off to a time gone by as the V&A have collections from South and South-East Asia comprise nearly 60,000 objects covering the Indian subcontinent south of the Himalayas, including India and Bangladesh. The range of the collection is immense. as it includes specially made jades and rock crystal embedding in jewellery, Indian textiles, a vast array of Indian sculptures, paintings from the Punjab Hill courts. Other notable artefacts that are contained in the V&A is the famous Golden throne of Ranjit Singh which was the founder of the Sikh Empire.

46 Church Road, Stanmore, Middx, London HA7 4AH *All prices are from and subject to change and availability*

Not only that but the V&A hold temporary exhibitions for free, open to the public and an example of this is the Fabric of India exhibition which fully explored the incomparably rich world of handmade textiles from India. Another exhibition currently running is the Musical Wonders of India a selection of beautifully decorated instruments, one in the shape of a peacock adorned with real feathers, evokes India"s rich musical traditions.

lion items within five main collections: botany, palaeontology and zoology. Many of the collections have great historical as well as scientific value, such as specimens collected by Charles Darwin.

The museum is particularly famous for its exhibition of dinosaur skeletons and ornate cathedral like archi-

tecture. The Natural History Museum Library contains extensive books, journals, manuscripts, and artwork collections linked to the work and research of the scientific departments. The museum is recognised as one of the most important centres of natural history and research of in many of the listed fields.

2. Natural History Museum The museum is home to many science specimens comprising some 80 mil-

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th 16 Asian Achievers Awards Nitin Ganatra

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Venue: Central London 16th September 2016 Sponsors

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SPECIAL

Wonders of 16

WEST LONDON Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

With a population of 1.6 million, West London has a well known reputation for being a more affluent place and is one of the top areas of London. Many are known to Indians live in these areas all immigrated from varies places around the world such as East Africa, Jamaica, Gujarat and Mumbai.

Not only that but West London is also known for its variety of historical buildings and serene parks. A part of the Thames River runs across West London promising wonderful views and breathtaking architecture.

HOUNSLOW In Hounslow there are more than 27,000 Indian-born residents in the borough, the 2011 census reveals, compared with just over 15,000 when the national survey was last carried out in 2001.

Hounslow has the country's third highest proportion of Sikhs and the fifth highest percentage of Hindus and Buddhists.

THINGS TO DO 1. London Museum of Water and Steam Hounslow has one of London’s top suburban museums and is the guardian of our industrial heritage at the Water for Life gallery which shows us how Londoners have procured their water for the past two millennia and how it was used.

2. Syon Park Not just that but Hounslow also has the Great Conservatory at Syon Park which dates back before the Conservatory in Kew Gardens. Syon is one of the last grand houses of London which has been maintained for more than 400 years. This

place holds a vast wealth of art within its grand interiors, while the Park and Gardens gives you a hearty country feel even though you’re just a few minutes away from Charing Cross.

3. Chiswick house Another historical place one can visit in Hounslow is Chiswick house which is known for one the best architectures in London. The house and gardens, which occupy 65.1 acres was mainly created by architect and landscape designer William Kent and this is one of the earliest examples of the English landscape garden.

4. Hounslow Urban farm For children, families can go to the Hounslow Urban farm which spans across 29 acres of land. People are invited to enjoy a variety of farm animals such as pigs, goats, cows, rabbits, ducks, geese, alpacas, rheas and chipmunks.

Hounslow Urban Farm also participates in rare-breeds programmes to preserve farm animals in danger of disappearing in our age of intensive farming.

THINGS TO DO 1. Pitzhanger Manor House However, places to visit in Ealing is the grand and beautiful Pitzhanger Manor House and the park has some wonderful ornamental bridges, ponds, streams and a walled rose garden. During July and August there will be a multitude of festivals take place showcasing jazz, comedy and other performances.

Not only that but Ealing is also home to Bunny Park in Hanwell, and Acton Park which promises beautiful gardens.

Hammersmith and Fulham In this Borough, Indians and Bangladeshis make up 11% of the population. The borough was formed when it had been merged in 1965 and the area had only been finished being re-developed in 2008 with the opening of the Westfield shopping centre.

THINGS TO DO 1. Shopping A must see is the massive Westfield shopping centre.

Westfield London is famed for its luxurious shopping experience where you'll be spoilt for choice with a range of stores from Burberry to Schuh and beyond. However, King Street in Hammersmith has its own selection of great shops, and Fulham Broadway isn’t too bad either, both include chains and smaller independent shops. Another place to shop is the New Shepherds Bush Market and has a vast array items for sale from fresh produce to all the latest fashions. This market is easily accessible between Goldhawk Road and Shepherd's Bush Underground stations.

ASIAN ACHIEVERS

AWARDS I N A S S O C I AT I O N W I T H

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AsianVoiceNewsweekly years.

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The people’s choice awards

SPECIAL Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

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2. Parks For nature lovers there are multiple parks one can visit around the area such as Putney Heath, Ravenscourt Park and Bishop's Park.

These can be perfect for family outings on a sunny day as they promise rustic features, gorgeous river views and away from city noises.

3. Fulham Palace For those interested in history they can visit Fulham palace where one can see 11th century architecture, wonderful walled gardens and vast grounds. Admission to the Palace and its grounds is free of charge and the grounds are open daily from dawn to dusk.

It is highly recommended that one must visit the cafe to try one of their delicious cakes.

4. Hammersmith bridge Another must see is the Hammersmith bridge which is a breathtaking gold and green which holds the title of the oldest suspension bridge in London. This can be spot-

ted on the charming Riverside Walk that will take you along one of the most picturesque stretches of the River Thames to Chiswick. Fulham is also known to be the home to the football team Chelsea.

EALING Ealing is another area with a high population of Asians as

it was known for its range of Gold jewellery and is one of the best places to go if you’relooking for Bridal wear.

Southall in Ealing has a thriving Punjabi and Gujarati community. The community first developed in the 1950s.

The Asian population makes up 80% of Southall Broadway ward as of 2011, a contrast compared to the 8% of Southfield ward in the borough's east.

Southall has a huge Punjabi community which is made evident by Southall Broadway, containing a fantastic selection of Indian restaurants, cinemas, clothing and food shops.

Wembley is home to a large Gujarati community, most are Hindus but there are also decent amount of Gujarati Muslims and a few Gujarati Sikhs. Punjabi migrants found work in the manufacturing, textile and the service sectors, including a significant number at Heathrow Airport in West London. In the Bengali community Ealing is host to one of largest Durga pujas in the UK that has been running for many

2. Authentic cuisines Ealing has one of the largest Polish communities in London and there’s the Magnolia Cafe, offering irresistible home made authentic Polish food. Ealing has a vast range of international cuisines such as the famous Nepalese restaurant called Monty's in Ealing Broadway and the Atariya Sushi bar which comes highly recommended, but remember to book early if you want a guaranteed place!

3. Southall markets In Southall market is a hybrid of a traditional market place and the essence of Indian culture. One can find a vast array goods on sale such as fresh produce, spices and sari fabrics however, the poultry and horse markets have now closed, after 300 years of trade. The Broadway is famous for the huge amount of shops selling sarees of every colour, small trinkets such as bangles for any occasion, food made freshly in front of your eyes. For all your Indian shopping needs Southall is the place to be.

4. Gurdwaras Sri Guru Sigh Sabh The Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabh is also situated in the borough and is the largest Gurdwara outside India which was established in 1950s. This was done to accommodate for the ever growing Sikh community in Southall. The Gurdwara site was inaugurated by HRH Prince of Wales Prince Charles. Since then many dignitaries such as Former

AsianVoiceNewsweekly

PrimeMinister Rt Hon Tony Blair, Archbishop of Canterbury and the leaders of all the Political Parties have visited the Gurdwara.

RICHMOND Richmond was founded following Henry VII's building of Richmond Palace in the 16th century, from which the town derives its name.The Asian population make up about 6.3% of the population of Richmond. With a third of the borough being green and open space which is five times more than any other borough in LondonRichmond has much to offer in terms of leisure activities such as boating, equestrian and some field sports.

THINGS TO DO 1. Royal Botanical Kew Gardens Richmond is home to the famous Royal Botanical Kew Gardens, it's a pleasure to walk through the serene gardens to look at the variety of flora they have. The newest greenhouses they have are interesting and modern with a lovely restaurant. In the Kew Gardens if they are brave enough one must try the Treetop Walkway stands in the Arboretum, between the Temperate House and the lake. The 18-metre high, 200-metre walkway enables visitors to walk around the crowns of various trees. The walkway provides opportunities for inspecting birds, insects, lichen and fungi at close quarters, as well as seeing blossom emerging and seed pods bursting open in spring.

2. Richmond Park Another landmark one can visit is Richmond Park which

was created by Charles I in the 17th century. Richmond Park includes many buildings of architectural or historic interest. For a little bit of British history one can visit Ham house which is situated by the Thames river.

Richmond is also famous for its aptly named Richmond Theatre, this beautiful little theatre has stunning ceilings, architecture and comfortable seats that runs plays throughout the year.

TRAVLIN STYLE

KENSINGTON & CHELSEA This borough is home to the Nottingham Hill Carnival, Europe's largest. It contains many of the most expensive residential districts in London and even in the

world and 10% Asian the borough consists of Indians.

In this borough one can find many famous spots such Harrods, the Chelsea flower show and the Nottingham Hill Carnival.

THINGS TO DO 1. Victoria and Albert Museum At the V&A in Room 41 you can find yourself cast off to a time gone by as the V&A have collections from South and South-East Asia comprise nearly 60,000 objects covering the Indian subcontinent south of the Himalayas, including India and Bangladesh. The range of the collection is immense. as it includes specially made jades and rock crystal embedding in jewellery, Indian textiles, a vast array of Indian sculptures, paintings from the Punjab Hill courts. Other notable artefacts that are contained in the V&A is the famous Golden throne of Ranjit Singh which was the founder of the Sikh Empire.

46 Church Road, Stanmore, Middx, London HA7 4AH *All prices are from and subject to change and availability*

Not only that but the V&A hold temporary exhibitions for free, open to the public and an example of this is the Fabric of India exhibition which fully explored the incomparably rich world of handmade textiles from India. Another exhibition currently running is the Musical Wonders of India a selection of beautifully decorated instruments, one in the shape of a peacock adorned with real feathers, evokes India"s rich musical traditions.

lion items within five main collections: botany, palaeontology and zoology. Many of the collections have great historical as well as scientific value, such as specimens collected by Charles Darwin.

The museum is particularly famous for its exhibition of dinosaur skeletons and ornate cathedral like archi-

tecture. The Natural History Museum Library contains extensive books, journals, manuscripts, and artwork collections linked to the work and research of the scientific departments. The museum is recognised as one of the most important centres of natural history and research of in many of the listed fields.

2. Natural History Museum The museum is home to many science specimens comprising some 80 mil-

Call and book your place NOW! 020 7749 4085

Join us at the

th 16 Asian Achievers Awards Nitin Ganatra

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FINANCIAL VOICE

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Diageo's deals with Vijay Mallya under Sebi scanner Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

Diageo is in trouble as India's market regulator Sebi is mulling to ask the British liquor giant to make additional payments to minority shareholders of United Spirits. The company acquired shares of the Indian business under an open offer in 2013 to compensate them for preferential treatment.

Sources said Sebi prima facie was of the view that the interest of minority investors was compromised because of non-disclosure of certain deals, including some loan guarantees that Diageo had entered into with Vijay Mallya while acquiring USL. Takeover norms require the acquirer to make an open offer to purchase 26 per cent from minority shareholders of a listed company at a price at least on par with what is

Vijay Mallya

paid to majority shareholders or promoters.

The notice came after a disclosure revealed that Diageo Holdings Netherlands had issued a conditional backstop guar-

antee to Standard Chartered Bank. In a regulatory filing, Diageo said, "The guarantee was in respect of the liabilities of Watson Ltd, a company affiliated with Vijay

Mallya, under a $135-million facility from Standard Chartered."It said that if any net liability was incurred by Diageo on account of the Watson backstop guarantee, it would be considered to be part of the price aid for the acquisition of USL. In this case, Sebi informed the company that, additional equivalent payments would be required to be made to those shareholders who tendered in the open offer.

Diageo said it "is clear that the Watson backstop guarantee arrangements were not part of the price paid or agreed to be paid for any USL shares under the original USL transaction and, therefore, believes the decision in the Sebi notice to be misconceived and wrong in law and it is taking steps to appeal it."

Frank Field calls Sir Philip Green 'evil' Labour MP Frank Field called Sir Philip Green "evil" saying he needed to "face up to the evil he has done in destroying BHS, workers' jobs, and pension fund liabilities." The statements came after Sir Green

launched a fairly ill-concealed dig at Field, saying his attacks were sabotaging plans to save BHS pensioners. He went on to accuse the co-chair of a parliamentary inquiry into the collapse of the high street

chain of overseeing a "kangaroo court".

He added, "If you continue to seek to usurp the Pension Regulator's role with your characteristically unfathomable statements and hurl daily abuse at us,

any failure to arrive at pensions solution will be down to you." In response, Field said Sir Philip needed to dig deep and write a "big cheque" to sort it out, accusing him of "displacement therapy".

Don’t lose contact with contactless Shoppers have been warned not to lose sight of their contactless bank cards in a bid the cut on fraud. Experts warn businesses were putting customers at risk by ignoring guidelines about the “Tap and go” technology.

Fraud experts are asked the government to make it a compulsory rule and urge customers to refuse payment if they are asked to hand over their contactless cards for payment. Taking cards away from customer goes against guidelines set by the UK Cards Association, which states that “the card or device should always stay in the customer’s hand, and both the retailer and the cus-

small shops. Taking people’s tap and go cards away has become so common people think that’s what they are meant to do, when in fact they should be doing the opposite.”

tomer should follow the terminal prompts.”

While most high street retailers comply with the guideline, with stores placing card machines within easy reach of the customer.

It is estimated £7.75 billion was spent using contactless cards last year which has

been contributed to the increase of the payment limit to £30 and the growth of contactless for transport. James Daley from campaign group Fairer Finance says “The risk of bad practice and fraud is much more prevalent in busy bards and

The Tap and Go Code: • Place contactless card readers within sight and rich of the customer • Customers should always handle the card • Receipts must be issued for higher-value contactless payments • Receipts should be provided for all payments upon request • Customers have the right to use chip and pin if they prefer

London’s Most Expensive Apartment On the other side of Buckingham Palace, down The Mall is an apartment that commands a price worth it’s location. The apartment in Admiralty Arch is on the market for an estimated £150million.

Estate agents expect the the 12 bedroom apartment to for as much as £9,000 per sq. ft, higher than the City of Westminster average of £1,500. The property comes with 18ft ceilings, original fireplaces, a concierge service, off-road valet parking and lifetime membership to a private members’ club.

The stamp duty alone will be around £16million. This apartment is quietly being marketed by Prime Investors Capital, which has the option of converting it

into four smaller flats or to retain it as one big apartment.

Tim Macpherson from the estate agency Carter Jones says “It’s extremely

rare for developments that are steeped in history to come to the market. Then there’s the simple cachet of living at this addressed its unmatched London views.”

The apartment’s sale sets a new record for the London property market after the 2014 sale of a penthouse in One Hyde Park at £140 million.

The Grade I listed Admiralty Arch was built in 1912, it was supposed to be ceremonial centre and a place to demonstrate Britain’s wealth and overseas power.

AsianVoiceNews

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'Green tax' to hit landlords with £5,000 bill on buy-to-let homes

Thousands of buy-to-let home owners will have to pay a "green tax" of up to £5,000 to make their properties more energy efficient.

Landlords could apply for loans from the Green Deal scheme for improvements, until recently, which were then repaid by tenants who benefit from lower bills.

However, the new Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy is now proposing that the owners provide the money.

Richard Jones, policy adviser at the Residential Landlords Association said, "Unless they make funding available, landlords will be forced to pass these costs on to tenants in the form higher rents. It could also make being a buy-to-let landlord prohibitive. They could struggle to find such a large amount of money upfront. Landlords have been harshly treated. This is an extra stealth tax on top of all the other measures that threaten the finances of the sector."

Owners must raise the energy efficiency of homes to at least Band E, from April 2018. In a briefing, the government proposed a "hypothetical £5,000 spending cap” and insisted most landlords will have to pay no more than £1,800 to meet the standards.

However, Gas central heating can cost £3,900, cavity wall insulation £500 and loft insulation £300. The Department suggested landlords can borrow more.

In its presentation, it said, "Data suggests around 60 per cent of privately rented properties are currently owned outright. So we assume that these landlords will have a significant amount of equity against which they might borrow."

Philip Hammond, the new Chancellor, said he will not change the approach despite the concerns of Tory MPs. He said taxation "is there for a simple purpose: to raise revenue. I expect the taxes we put in place to achieve that."

How to Reduce Your Inheritance Tax Bill Last year receipts for the inheritance tax (IHT) rose to over 21% to £4.65 billion thanks to a rising stock market and property prices, and freezing of the tax-free allowance. Recent figures show that 19,277 estates were hit with IHT in 201314. IHT allowance, the threshold above which 40% tax is payable, currently stands at £325,000 and has remained at that level since 2009. In the financial year 2017-18, a new additional alliance of £100,000 will be available and will rise further to £175,000 in 2020-21.

However this will apply to the family homes of married couples with children.

This will enable married couples with a huge property to pass on up to £1million to their children, IHT free. Single people, childless couples along with those who do not own a property are stuck on the existing threshold of £325,000.

Top IHT beating tips: • Make a will which is

•

•

•

• •

•

•

extremely important for unmarried couple’s.

Use your gift allowances.

You can make IHT free gifts up to £3000 to anyone each year.

Make regular gifts from your income as long as it does not reduce your standard of living Make use of the 7 year rule. You can give unlimited amounts of money or assets to anyone as gifts, IHT free as long as you live for 7 years after making the gift.

Buying shares Take out a life insurance policy. Reduce the IHT on the estate by using “whole of life” in the insurance policy.

Pass on your pension pot to a beneficiary makes it IHT free. Also if you demise before 75 years there is no income tax when the recipient starts relying on the pension pot.

Remember charities in your will. Bequests to charities and political parties are exempt from IHT.

REALESTATEVOICE

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THE CHINK IN THE MARKET AsianVoiceNews

AsianVoiceNewsweekly

I saw three properties on the market yesterday, all said to be discounted. The post Brexit fear is still in the air. The concern is if you buy now will the price drop even further months down the line? Who knows for sure?

Suresh Vagjiani Sow & Reap: A Property Investment Company

Two were around the £1m mark, the other was £650k. Six months ago all of these properties would have been snapped up.

Now we are in a different environment. One where the buyers have taken back some of the control. It’s a buyer’s market, one which should be exploited.

But how can one ensure the price will not decrease in months to come? You cannot, that is the simple and truthful answer.

The way to ensure your

Asian Voice |6th August 2016

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purchase is a sound one is to change your focus. As the buyer is now in a position of choice this choice now should be used with great discrimination.

If capital growth cannot be relied upon at least in the short term, the emphasis should go to rental income. Ensure there is cash flow month on month, this way whether the price of property goes up or down your money will flow in.

The bulk of money to be made from property is always from the capital growth, not from the income. The growth is driven predominantly by location.

The trick is to increase the yield whilst purchasing in

a strong location. We are pursuing the same strategy with three properties at the moment, in Notting Hill, St John’s Wood and Marylebone. Not areas which are known for yields. However after

studying the planning ourselves very carefully over a period of months, we are now in a position to execute the project in St John’s Wood. Hopefully replicating the model with the other two properties in

the pipeline.

income, and whilst doing so as long as things were done properly damage risk would be mitigated apart from the usual wear and tear. As far as the hassle factor was concerned, this would be fully taken care of by the company as part of our fully managed service.

however as long as the key elements are followed there is no reason why it shouldn’t run smoothly.

Once the project is complete, we will be looking to attract a yield of circa 5% which is now a mean feat in prime locations.

MAXIMIZE BUT DON’T COMPROMISE "Landlord crams tenants into what was fourbedroom home" was just one of the headlines last week that caught my eye.

The property in Napier Road in Wembley uncovered THIRTY-ONE people living in a four bedroom house. This took maximizing profits to the another level. This four bed family home was converted into a nine bed shanty town shack made from wood off-cuts, pallets and tarpaulins.

The property is owned by a landlord who now faces prosecution, a criminal record and an unlimited

fine. It has been converted from its original state and has been chopped up into cubicles, each stuffed with bunk beds in order to cram in as many tenants as possible.

A shed which was in the rear of the garden, was without heat or light and was being used to house the only woman living at the address.

Due to the number of people living in the house it is estimated the landlord was earning in the region of £80,000 per

BUY TO LET OPPORTUNITY Maida Vale, London, W9 Purchase Price: £650k

annum in rent! Whilst we would all like to turn our annual rental income from £23,000 – (which is the normal rent for such a property under an AST) into £80,000 we must make sure that it is done so within the legal remit.

This landlord is due to painfully discover the consequences of breaching these. He now faces prosecution, a criminal record and an unlimited fine.

I have recently had a couple, who are clients of mine, contact me and ask

l

how they can maximize their rental income with little or no work (not to the extent above!). After sitting down with the couple and discussing possibilities with them I found that there were three main points that they needed to address: They wanted to increase the income, they had concerns about the possible damage to their property and finally they did not want extra hassle.

We sat down and had a long chat about their property. I was able to illustrate to them how they could maximize their

A freehold house in an excellent location

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Parking

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Garden

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Probate sale

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Close to Maida Vale tube station

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Needs refurbishment

Call us now to reserve!

Anything to do with Lettings can be tricky,

Firstly treat it like a business, secondly have realistic expectations and understand that things can go up and down.

Thirdly, leave it to me, that’s what I’m here for!

Richard Bond, Lettings Manager at Sow & Reap.

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FINANCIAL VOICE

Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

Consultant Editor Financial Voice Alpesh Patel

Dear Financial Voice Reader, I ran a poll in my most recent free two hour ‘How to Trade’ webinar on www.alpeshpatel.com/mega to find out what people thought of a Trump victory for the markets.

Most didn’t think he would and presented with a Trump victory felt the US Dollar will fall as investors leave the US, with Gold prices likely to rise.

The good news is that analysing the performance of individual UK and US stocks since Brexit shows amazing returns the likes of which you normally only find on a rampant bull run.

For instance, of the 350 largest UK companies have seen some rise since the vote over 20% and still be good value based on their profitability.

Those falling in this category under my ‘Alpesh Vale/Growth’ Rating I created on www.sharescope.co.uk/alpesh shows company names like Indivior, Centamin, Fresnillo, Hill & Smith, Just Eat, AstraZeneca, Entertainment One, Micro Focus, Genus, Dechra, Rolls Royce, NCC, Fiddessa. Now that is a lot of choice.

As for the US I looked at the NASDAQ 100 companies and some of the returns are even better even though not directly linked to Brexit. Seagate for instance is up 40% and eBay 35%. Also above 25% return include Biogen, Regeneron, Illimina – and all showed relatively good valuation based on earnings/profitability.

So is all fine and dandy? As things stand central banks around the world are all being very fast and loose with their monetary policies and that is intended to boost growth and inflation of prices and assets to boost confidence.

Looking at the price charts the momentum indicators I trust the most show a sharp rise. I have no choice but to be positive on prices. That is not to say all is well with the economy, but prices are likely to rise in stocks.

One key reason for UK share price rises is the attraction of foreign purchases due to the post Brexit falls and cheaper pound – just look at ARM and IAG. So who is on my list of potential targets for overseas purchases? Man Group, GKN, Marks and Spencer, EasyJet. Oh and if you just want my best names out of all UK stocks regardless of Brexit then based on growth and valuation these names are punching above their weight: BGEO, Charles Taylor, CRH, Liontrust, UBM, Wincanton, Amino, Datatec.

Poverty costs UK £78bn A report said that the effects of poverty in the UK cost the average taxpayer £1,200 a year, and the UK £78bn in all. Joseph Rowntree Foundation analysed how poverty affected different government services, and found the NHS to be hit the most as those living in poverty were "more likely" to suffer from illnesses.

The foundation said its total bill for poverty did not include money spent on benefits, and added the research conducted by Heriot-Watt and Loughborough universities, was the first to look at how much poverty across all age

groups costs different government departments.

The report outlined the following key costs: £29bn on treating health conditions associated with poverty. £10bn on schools providing initiatives such as free school meals and pupil premium for poorer students. £9bn on the police and criminal justice systems dealing with the higher incidence of crime in more deprived areas. £7.5bn on children's services and early years provision, such as free childcare for deprived twoyear-olds. £4.6bn on adult social care and £4bn on housing.

Sahara spurns $1.3bn offer for overseas hotels Sahara Group has declined a $1.3 billion offer for its overseas hotels calling it a "devious attempt" to lower the price. The offer, made by a consortium of family office investors including Jesdev Saggar-led 3 associates of the UK and others from the Middle East, eyed Sahara's famed Grosvenor House in London, Park Plaza and Dream Downtown in New

York. The group, however, quickly spurned the proposal saying it was an attempt to ruin the market and disturb existing bidders at market value that was "much higher". Saggar, managing director of 3 Associates, termed the offer as the "largest hotel bid in UK history", and said the consortium has made a "very compelling offer".

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India's first corporate Masala Bond launched at London Stock Exchange AsianVoiceNews

HDFC, a leading bank of India has become the first private company from India to issue a rupeedominated bond abroad, raising £340mn (Rs 30bn) in London.

High Commissioner of India, Navtej Sarna joined MP Alok Sharma, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Foreign Commonwealth Office (FCO) and Mr. Deepak Parekh, Chairman, HDFC to launch India’s first corporate Masala Bond at the London Stock Exchange early morning of Monday 1 August 2016.

The launch of the offshore rupee denominated Masala Bond by HDFC follows Prime Minister Modi’s statement during his visit to UK in November 2015 that Indian entities would use London Stock Exchange to launch rupee denominated bonds to attract investments required for infrastructural development in India.

Speaking on the occasion, High Commissioner Sarna reiterated the importance attached by

AsianVoiceNewsweekly

Nikhil Rathi, CEO, London Stock Exchange Plc, HE Navtej Sarna, High Commissioner of India to UK, Deepak Parekh, Chairman, HDFC and other dignitaries at the launch

Prime Minister Modi as well as the UK Government to strengthening financial business and investment links between India and the UK. Sarna also emphasized that the successful launch of these bonds testifies to global confidence in India’s growth story as well as to strengthen confidence of India-UK relations.

So far 30 off-shore Indian rupee bonds have been listed on the London Stock Exchange raising equivalent to US$ 3.5 billion. Other Speakers also

expressed the hope that this landmark bond issuance by HDFC would pave the way for opening of the Masala Bond market globally to support Indian companies and infrastructure financing.

Philip Hammond, the Chancellor said the deals showed “Britain is open for business."

“I am delighted that HDFC has chosen to list this landmark bond in London. It represents a major vote of confidence in London as the leading global financial centre and is further proof that

Britain is a great place to do business."

This follows the launch of several bonds denominated in China's renminbiknown as dim sum bondsas well as Islamic bonds or sukuk in London.

HDFC issued this three year masala bond, pays an interest rate of 8.33% and has a market value of 2.18 trillion rupees, equivalent to roughly £25bn.

Several public sector bodies have also issued Masala bonds in London, including one of the World Bank arms and the Indian railway system.

Delegation to organise Vibrant Gujarat roadshow in London

Rupanjana Dutta

A 14 member delegation of government representatives, professionals and businessmen are travelling from Gujarat to UK for organising a Vibrant Gujarat Roadshow, meeting 20-25 top business and government representatives as well as the Non Residential Gujarati (NRG) community in London between 4-6 August 2016.

Vibrant Gujarat is a biennial investors' summit held by the government of Gujarat in Gujarat, India.

The event is aimed at bringing together business leaders, investors, corporations,

thought leaders, policy and opinion makers; the summit is advertised as a platform to understand and explore business opportunities in the State of Gujarat.

This visit by the delegates to the UK is mainly planned for attracting investments into Gujarat as well as build tie-ups in various sectors.

The focus sectors for discussion with UK leaders has been identified as Chemicals & Petrochemicals, Electronics, Aerospace & Defense, Renewable Energy, Technology & Startups, Financial Services, Pharmaceuticals and Textiles.

The delegation will be led by Mrs Mamata Verma, IAS from Gujarat Government-Industries Commissionerate. She will focus on business/technology tie ups between UK & Gujarat, especially promotion of investments into Gujarat.

Other delegates will include Mr Manu Srivastava, Director of Gujarat Agro Infrastructure Mega Food Park, Mr Vikas Nath, CEOUK & Europe, Adani Global PTE Ltd, Mr Sunil Parekh, Advisor, Zydus Group, Mr Sanjay Randhar, Managing Director, Gujarat Venture Finance

Ltd, Kiritkumar H Patel, CEO, Urmi Solar Systems Ltd, Mr Amit Agrawal, MD & CEO, Jindal textiles, Mr Ajay Pandey, CEO, Gujarat International Finance Tec City, Mr Dipesh Shah, Vice President, Gujarat International Finance Tec City, Mr Chintan Thaker, Head, Corporate Affairs, Welspun Group, Mr Vipul Vachhani, Founder & CEO, Jaivel Europe, Mr Harish Mehta, Director, Suzlon Group, Mr Shrunkhal Shah, Asst Manager, KPMG and Mr Saikat Roy Chowdhury, State HeadGujarat, CII. Each of them will focus on different areas of interests.

McDonald’s joins Glaxo in boosting jobs in UK Joining GlaxoSmithKline Plc in a vow to strengthen British employment, McDonald's Corp. is all set to create 5,000 jobs in the UK by the end of 2017, in addition to the 8,000 announced in 2014. Chief Executive of McDonald's UK, Paul Pomroy said the move would bring the company's British workforce to more than 110,000. "These remain challenging economic conditions, but I'm pleased that, together with our franchisees, we remain committed to the UK," he said. Greg Clark, secretary of state for the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, called the

announcement "great news for the UK Economy". He said, "The government is committed to ensuring businesses have the support they need to thrive and today's announcement underlines that businesses are confident that the UK remains open for business."

The country's biggest drugmaker, Glaxo will invest 275 million pounds to increase capacity to make respiratory and biologic medicines, mostly for export. It released a statement saying the company is betting on the continued growth of new products, which brought in more than twice as much revenue in the second quarter

as they did a year earlier.

CEO Andrew Witty said it was benefiting from the weakening of the British pound following the UK vote to leave the EU with currency effects boosting sales by 7 per cent and profit by 26 per cent. "The vote happened, and it's a democracy, and we will make the most of it. I am delighted we are able to announce these capital investments today, not because of our view about Brexit, but it shows confidence in our products."

Witty, along with AstraZeneca Plc CEO Pascal Soriot, chairs an industry task force on life sciences set up by the UK government that aims to

identify opportunities for the sector following the Brexit referendum. The outcome has created uncertainty for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, with questions about how an exit from the EU would affect immigration policy, drug regulation, trade agreements and the movement of goods like raw materials.

One attraction for companies is Britain’s corporate tax system, which provides a lower rate on profits from UK-owned intellectual property, Glaxo said. The country also boasts a skilled workforce and access to technology and key infrastructure, the company said.

CURRENCY VOICE

www.asian-voice.com AsianVoiceNews

Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

Paresh Davdra is the Dealing Director of RationalFX,

Markets upbeat as Interest Rate set to rise Currency Specialists.

A quarterly business survey by the CBI reveals optimism about the UK economy among British businesses has fallen at the fastest rate since January 2009. More than half of businesses surveyed said they were less optimistic about the business situation than three months earlier. On a positive note the UK’s tech sector has benefited from more than £152.5 million of venture capital cash since the Referendum. The BoE is expected to cut benchmark borrowing costs when it sets policy on Aug. 4. Economists surveyed expect the Bank to cut at least 25 basis points, from the already record low 0.5% it has sat since early 2009. While 17 of 36 said the £375 billion quantitative easing programme that was wound down in 2012 would restart next week. A Markit/CIPS PMI published last week showed its biggest drop in its 20-year history following the Brexit vote, and similar surveys have pointed sharply in the same direction. This has indicated that Britain's economy will slide back into recession in 2017. A Reuter’s poll published showed growth predictions were already being cut across the board. Britain's economy grew by 0.6% during a second quarter that ended with the Brexit vote, up from 0.4% in the first three months of 2016. Retail sales

21

Foreign Exchange

AsianVoiceNewsweekly

released after the Brexit vote shows sales between June 28 and July 14 showed their sharpest fall in four years, raising doubts about the ability of consumers to stave off a recession. Sterling hit a twoweek low on Tuesday after BoE said Friday's weak PMI surveys would be "very material" for the bank's next policy meeting. The BoE surprised markets in July by not cutting the benchmark borrowing cost from its record low of 0.5%. Growing worries about the economic outlook has dented the confidence of UK households and manufacturers, suggesting the Brexit result will slow the British economy. A poll by GfK recorded the biggest slide in consumer confidence in over 26 years in July.

Oil prices fell to 2-1/2-month lows yesterday, on rising concerns that a global oversupply would weigh in on markets. The U.S. Federal Reserve is expected to keep interest rates unchanged this week, deferring any possible increase until September or December. The key debate at the policy meeting will be how to reconcile upbeat U.S. economic data, highlighted by strong job gains in June. It’s been said all that is needed is a bit more confidence, that inflation is headed towards the Fed's 2% target. The inflation measure the Fed prefers to track is

currently at 1.6%. However with monthly job gains well above the level needed to prevent an uptick in unemployment, and no signs of a rise in productivity, some Fed policymakers are likely to argue for a quick increase in rates to avoid a surge in inflation. Other policymakers, have signaled they would rather wait for more tangible signs of a rise in inflation before pulling the trigger on a rate increase. The Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged while saying risks to the U.S. economy have subsided and the labour market is getting tighter, suggesting conditions are getting more favourable for an increase in borrowing costs.

Chair Janet Yellen stated that the Fed is likely to raise interest rates gradually, market volatility and a dip in job gains have delayed plans. Yesterday the US presidential election was back in the news as Hilary Clinton became the first female nominee bidding to become president. The only significant economic data was the jobless claims figure which showed the number of Americans who filed for unemployment benefits last week rose from a three-month low, consistent with the view of a strong job market. The Dollar weakened on Friday afternoon as the U.S economy grew less than

expected . Inventory investment fell for the first time in nearly five years, but a surge in consumer spending pointed to underlying strength. While consumers were resilient last quarter, businesses were cautious, cutting back on investment and aggressively reducing stockpiles amid weak global markets, heightened uncertainty and the lingering drag from a stronger dollar. Gross domestic product increased at a 1.2 % annual rate after rising by a downward revised 0.8 % pace in the first quarter of 2016. Economists had also forecast GDP growth rising at a 2.6 % rate in the last quarter.

S&P has labelled the EU as ‘’unsustainable’’ highlighting a need for reform’. German IFO data, an indicator of business sentiment, was better than expected suggesting that Europe’s largest economy remains robust. The export expectations of German manufacturing firms weakened in July, due to concerns relating to the Brexit vote. The drop came after export expectations in the manufacturing sector rose in the two previous months. In particular, the automobile and metals industries felt more pessimistic about prospects for their exports in the next three months, the survey of around 2,700 industrial firms showed.

We e k ly Currencies

As of Tuesday 2nd August 2016 @ 2.15pm

GBP - INR = 88.35

USD - INR = 66.57 EUR - INR = 74.57 GBP - USD = 1.32 GBP - EUR = 1.18

EUR - USD = 1.12 GBP - AED = 4.87

GBP - CAD = 1.73

GBP - NZD = 1.83

GBP - AUD = 1.74

GBP - ZAR = 18.52

GBP - HUF = 368.34

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Information provided by RationalFX. None of the information on this page constitutes, nor should be construed as financial advice. The exchange rates used are the commercial foreign exchange rates provided by RationalFX. For a live quote or to find out more about how RationalFX can help you, call us on 0207 220 8181.

Monday 1st August

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WORLD

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Solar plane completes historic round-the-world flight

Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

A solar plane that solely functions on the power of the sunlight, completed a journey around the world, landing in Abu Dhabi after a 17leg journey. The first solarpowered aircraft to circumnavigate the world without the use of any fuel, Solar Impluse 2 crossed Asia, the Pacific Ocean, the United States, the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and the Middle East.

Pilots Bertrand Piccard and AndrĂŠ Borschberg began the journey on March 9, 2015, and travelled the world, logging a total of 23 days of flight and 26,744 miles. In a statement, Piccard said, "This is not only a first in the history of

aviation, it's before all a first in the history of energy. I'm sure that, within 10 years, we'll see electric airplanes transporting 50 passengers on short-to-medium-haul flights. But it's not enough.

The same clean technologies used on Solar Impulse could be implemented on the ground in our daily life to divide by two the emissions

in a profitable way."

"More than a demonstration, it's the confirmation that these technologies are truly dependable and reliable," Borschberg said.

"There is so much potential for the aeronautical world: While 100-percent-solarpowered airplanes might take longer to materialize, electric airplanes will devel-

op in the near future because of their tremendous advantages, such as energy efficiency."

The aircraft was designed to fly day and night without using any fuel. It is powered entirely by 17,000 solar cells and onboard batteries, that charge during the day to power the place at night and during cloudy weather. The flight set a total of 19 world records, including Borschberg achieving the longest-duration solo flight when he flew five consecutive days and nights over the Pacific Ocean from Japan to Hawaii, and Piccard becoming the first to cross the Atlantic Ocean in a solar airplane.

S Africa's ANC likely to lose local vote in major cities PRETORIA: Opinion polls ahead of next week's local elections brought bad news for South Africa's ruling African National Congress as it reveals it would most likely to lose major urban areas it has held since it came to power in 1994.

Polls published last week

by Ipsos said the economic hub of Johannesburg, capital Pretoria, and Nelson Mandela Bay on the east coast, saw falling to main opposition party Democratic Alliance. ANC's support looked likely to slip to 31 per cent in Johannesberg from 59 per cent in the 2011 55

Jacob Zuma

per cent, and 28 per cent in Nelson Mandela Bay from 52 per cent. A local, Brian Malope, 38, said, "I voted for the ANC last time but now I'm not sure. Look around, nothing has changed." The party's reputation took a hit

after accusations of corruption against President Jacob Zuma rose, along with unemployment rates in the country. Zuma barely survived an impeachment vote in April, not to forget the criticism he faced in December, for changing his finance minister twice in a week, a move that sent the rand currency plummeting.

However, some analysts said a flare-up of violent anti-government riots would not necessarily lead to ballot box losses. "People come out in protests. But still, as they protest against the ANC they're hoping it's the ANC

that will solve the country's problems. No doubt that the current president has become a liability to the ANC due to a litany of unethical behaviour," said political analyst Aubrey Matshiqi said.

Pan-African research body Afrobarometer said last month that Zuma's approval rating of 34 per cent was the lowest score since the poll started in 2000. Its June poll of 2,400 people found that six out of 10 South Africans disapproved of the way their local councillors had done their jobs over the previous 12 months.

US dossier bares Pakistan's role in Pathankot attack NEW DELHI: In a much needed boost to India's probe against Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Muhammed handlers in the Pathankot IAF base attack, the United States handed over evidence to the NIA; over 1,000 pages of conversations between handler Kashif Jaan and the four fidayeen who were shot down in the face-off.

The chats clarified that the terror strike on Pathankot was micro-managed from Pakistan. The terrorists who attacked the base

included Nasir Hussain from Punjab, Abu Bakar from Gujranwala, and Umar Faroow and Abdul Qayum from Sindh. They were all in regular contact with their handlers in Pakistan during the 80-hour attack. Sources said the documents also include Kashif Jaan's conversations with other Pakistanbased JeM office-bearers apart from other exchanges over a period of time. NIA officials are currently analysing the documents.

Investigations revealed

that other than chats on WhatsApp and other platforms, Jaan was using a Facebook account connected to the same mobile number which the attackers called from Pathankot after abducting Punjab police SP Salwinder Singh. The terrorists had also called another number in Pakistan connected to a Facebook account of Mulla Daadullah. All the accounts were accessed before and around the time of the attack using IP addresses of telecom firms

based in Pakistan, and were operated by Jaan.

All the accounts contained jihadi material and videos and comments condemning arrest of jaish cadres in Pakistan by authorities here.

The terrorists had also called numbers connected to JeM's financial arm, AlRahmat Trust. The recent documents shared by the US will make strong case for India ahead of Home Minister Rajnath Singh's visit to Islamabad next week.

No decision to expand UNSC this year UNITED NATIONS: In a decision deferred to next year, India will not be given a permanent seat this year on the United Nations Security Council. In a joint statement with Brazil, Japan and Germany, India said, "It is unfortunate that the 70th anniversary of the United Nations was not able to build up momentum with a view to reaching an agreement on this important item of the agenda of the General Assembly."

The United Nations has 193 member countries who form the General Assembly.

A meeting of their representatives ended without a decision on reconfiguring the Security Council that holds

15 members who decide who to maintain international peace and security. India failed to make entry to the Nuclear Suppliers Group, a block of 48 countries that control the trade in nuclear

technology and material.

India looks forward to a permanent place on the Security Council to reflect its importance as a trillion dollar economy and a major South Asian power. After

more than 20 years of stalling, moves to reform the council to reflect a more global balance of power gained momentum last year when a negotiating text was adopted by the General Assembly, overcoming strong opposition from a small group of countries including Pakistan and Italy.

The adoption of the text was a breakthrough as meaningful negotiations could not be held without such a document. Most UN members support increasing the total number of council members from 15 to the mid-20s and for making its working more transparent and involving non-member countries in its activities.

In Brief

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UK judge calls for an online court to cut cost

LONDON: A senior judge has called for an online court that does not require lawyers and can deal with claims of up to 25,000 British Pound. Lord Justice Briggs, a Court of Appeal judge supported the pilot online court scheme, which could result in tens of thousands of cases being dealt with annually online. He said, "The online court project offers a radically new and different procedural and cultural approach to the resolution of civil disputes."

The suggestion was part of his proposal, a package of reforms to the civil justice system, drawn by Lord Briggs himself. While no one knows just how exactly his court will ensure a trained professional on the internet, no one knows, but the justice said it will be a lot cheaper to run. Lord Brigg's report said the computer court would provide "effective access to justice without having to incur the disproportionate cost of using lawyers."

Welsh woman 'imprisoned by father' for 'kissing a guy'

RIYADH: A 21 year old Welsh woman approached a British High Court judge for help, after claiming she has been kept imprisoned by her father in Saudi Arabia because she "kissed a boy". Amina Al-Jeffery said she is banned from using the internet, phone and bathroom. She added that her father hit her and she has "metal bars" on her bedroom door.

With a dual British and Saudi Arabian nationality, Amina describes herself as a "locked-up girl with a shaved head." Her father, Mohammed Al-Jeffery moved to Saudi Arabia from South Wales four years back, disputes his daughter's allegations. Judge analysing the case, Justice Holman said he had to consider whether he had the power to make orders relating to a woman abroad. He said the "right thing" might be to order that she has taken to the British Consulate in Jeddah and that is she sought sanctuary, Foriegn Office staff would have to make decisions.

Bangladesh foils cafe-like attack bid, 9 jihadis killed

DHAKA: Bangladesh police killed nine militants who were believed to have planning an attack similar to the one on the cafe on July 1, that killed 22 people. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said Bangladesh "averted a major terror attack because of the raid" that was carried out on the support of intelligence reports.

Operation Storm 26 was carried out by the police's special Swat unit, elite anti-crime Rapid Action Battalion, and detectives, all together, by raiding Jahaz Building in Kalyanpur on the outskirts of Dhaka. Militants in the building who are believed to be members of Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh, fought the squads shouting "Allahu Akbar".

Police chief Shahidul Hoque said, "They were wearing black outfits, turbans, and had backpacks similar to the outfits the attackers in the cafe had. They were plotting a major attack in the capital like that in the restaurant." He said a wounded militant was cpatured while another managed to escape.

Protest escalates in PoK over rigged polls

NEELAM VALLEY: Residents of the Neelum Valley in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, took to the streets in protest against the rigged July 21 elections which was won by Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz party. Protesters burnt Pakistani flag, raised slogans against the government, blackened election posters, and blocked traffic as they clashed with police personnel on duty. Locals allege elections in PoK are always fixed in favour of the ruling party in Pakistan, while political parties questioned the authenticity of the elections. The PML-N scored 31 out of 41 seats, while the Muslim Conference and Pakistan People's Party bagged three seats each. The Pakistan Human Rights Group has confirmed the allegations of corrupt practices, involving money and muscle power.

WORLD Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

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Hillary makes history as Democratic nominee In Brief AsianVoiceNews

PHILADELPHIA: A teenaged Indian-American girl became the youngest delegate at the Democratic National Convention at Philadelphia where Hillary Clinton was made the official presidential candidate.

Sruthi Palaniappan, 18, from Cedar Rapids, is a student of the Harvard University and a big supporter of Clinton.

Making history along with the new female presidential hopeful, Sruti was given an opportunity to represent Iowa during roll call votes. "I am extremely thankful for the surreal opportunity to have represented the Iowa delegation as

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a roll call speaker and to have been a part of the historic nomination process of our next president," she said. "We really do need to unite together in order to defeat the Republican nominee (Donald Trump). If we let Donald

Trump take over the presidency, really terrible things will take our county several steps back," Sruthi was quoted as saying to a local media source.

Writing a Facebook post, Sruthi said, "Together, we have made history by electing the first woman presidential nominee of a major political partyHillary Rodham Clinton. I'm extremely glad that I have been able to immerse myself at every step along the way and witness the political process first-hand."

Also present at the DNC was

President Barack Obama, who gave a rousing endorsement of Clinton. "Tonight, I ask you to do for Hillary Clinton what you did for me. I ask you to carry her the same way you carried me. I can say with confidence there has never been a man or a woman- not me, not Bill Clinton, nobody - more qualified than Hillary Clinton to serve as president of the United States of America."

Taking a dig at Trump, Obama said, "America is already great. America is already strong. And I promise you, our strength, our greatness, does not depend on Donald Trump."

Trump tastes wrath for attack on soldier’s father WASHINGTON: Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has struck yet another nerve with remarks over the father of a fallen Pakistan-origin Muslim American soldier. Trump said Army Capt Humayun Khan has "sacrificed nothing" for the country, and mocked his mother keeping silent at the Democratic National Convention last week, where Khizr Khan gave an impassioned speech.

Drawing sharp criticism from all sides, including his own party, Trump displayed his ignorance at best when he questioned whether Khan's wife was even "allowed" to speak. People threw dirt at him for attacking a mourning mother, and making racist and anti-Muslim comments.

Khizr Khan, father of fallen U.S. Army Capt. Humayun S. M. Khan holds up a copy of the Constitution of the United States as his wife listens during the final day of the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia

In an interview, Trump said, "Who wrote that? Did Hillary's scriptwriters write it? I think I've made a lot of sacrifices. I work very, very hard."

Khizr Khan gave a moving

tribute to his son at the DNC, as he posthumously received a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart after being killed by a suicide bomber in Iraq in 2004. His speech directly confronted

European truck-makers fined for price-fixing The EU competition commissioner, Margrethe Vestager, has fined five of the largest European truck manufacturers a record breaking 2.93bn. The five companies: Iveco, DAF, Volvo/ Renault, Daimler and MAN, fixed prices for their trucks and worked together to delay the introduction of emissions technology. The fine has been given after a five year investigation staring

in 2011 by the EU competition commission.

MAN avoided the penalty which would have been 1.2bn, as it was the whistleblower in the case.

Volvo, Iveco and Daimler got reduced fines as they co-operated with the investigation. However the sum is still big. Volvo/Renault was fined 670.4m, they got a 40% reduction for their co-operation and another 10% for agreeing

to settle. Iveco was fined 494.6m and got a 20% reduction for co-operating and agreeing to pay the fine. DAF who did not cooperate was fined 752.7m which include a 10% reduction for agreeing to settle. Among the companies Daimler has got the highest fine of 1.01bn, a 30% reduction for co-operating and 10% for agreeing to settle. The fines which will paid in three months.

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Trump, where he asked the businessman to "go look at the graves of brave patriots who died defending the United States of America. You have sacrificed nothing and no one." Trump responded by saying, "I've created thousands and thousands of jobs, tens of thousands of jobs, built great structures. Sure those are sacrifices. I think my popularity with the vets is through the roof."

Some very appalled Republicans openly opposed his tactic, including Ohio Governor John Kasich, who tweeted, "There's only one way to talk about Gold Star parents: with honour and respect."

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Death toll in landslides, floods rise to 73 in Nepal

KATHMANDU: Death toll in floods and landslides over the last three days in Nepal rose to 73, as stated by a government official.

Home Affairs Ministry spokesperson Yadav Koirala said seven people died, also stating that the toll could soon climb further despite search and rescue efforts being underway.

"Over 30 people have been injured while 76 houses have sustained permanent damage," he said. The worst-affected district is Pyunthan, where 34 people have lost their lives and another six remain missing. Nepal's Central Natural Disaster Relief Committee has sought some $7 million from the government for relief efforts in the affected region.

Emergency teams have conducted several rescue operations and saved more than a hundred people. This year's monsoon could lead to a higher-than-usual death toll, the Home Affairs Ministry said.

Turkey kills 35 militants after they try to storm base

DIYARBAKIR: Turkey army killed 35 Kurdish militants after they made an attempt to storm a base in the southeastern Hakkari province on Saturday. The attack came mere hours after clashes broke out between soldiers from Hakkari's Cukurca district, and militants from the Kurdistan Workers Party.

The militants divided in three different group, were spotted by aerial reconnaissance. Very soon an air operation was launched, killing 23 of them, while four others were killed in a ground operation. The remaining eight were killed in clashes.

NATO's second-largest, Turkey's military is currently facing an insurgency as senior level officers undergo a major shake-up following the July 15-16 coup failure.

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TDP, YSR Cong seek special status for Andhra Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

NEW DELHI: NDA partner TDP and opposition YSR Congress virtually joined hands in Lok Sabha on Monday to demand special category status for Andhra Pradesh. As soon as the House met, members of the YSR Congress trooped into the Well holding placards and raising slogans seeking special category status for Andhra Pradesh.

Members of BJP-led ruling alliance partner TDP also stood in the aisles with larger placards and raising similar slogans. Despite repeated reminders by the Speaker that placards are not allowed, members of the two parties continued to show banners and raise slogans throughout

the Question Hour, which continued even during Zero Hour too. TDP is unhappy with the central government for not providing the desired funds to the state after Telangana was carved out of it. The fissures between BJP and TDP are being seen as so serious that there is specula-

AIADMK MP sacked for slapping DMK leader NEW DELHI: AIADMK Rajya Sabha MP Sasikala Pushpa has been sacked from the party a day after she slapped DMK MP Tiruchy Siva at the Delhi airport. Later, party chief J Jayalalithaa sought an explanation from Pushpa. Pushpa who did not want to resign from the party returned to Delhi on Sunday.

Pushpa alleged in the Rajya Sabha on Monday that she was being forced to resign from the post. As the Rajya Sabha proceedings started, Pushpa told the Speaker that she was being threatened and forced to resign from the MP post.

Pushpa told the Speaker that Jayalalithaa was harassing her and she too was slapped by Jayalalithaa. As the Speaker tried to stop her reminding that she could not make allegations against people who were not in the House, she said she needs protection as there was a threat to her life. The Speaker said she could write to the Chairman for the same.

500 star turtles seized at Chennai airport

As the dramatic scenes were going on in RS, AIADMK headquarters in Chennai has issued a statement sacking her from the party “for bringing ill fame to the party.” On Sunday, a day after Pushpa herself claimed that she slapped DMK MP Siva at the Delhi airport, Jayalalithaa had summoned her at Poes Garden residence.

Party sources said Jayalalithaa had blasted her and sought a written apology and resignation from MP post. “She apologised at Jayalalithaa’s residence. Since she didn’t want to resign from her post, she went on to RS alleging that Jayalalithaa had slapped her,” said a senior leader.

Arvind Kejriwal

Singh Majithia, vowed to create a "new Punjab" in six months. Verbally attacking the state's Revenue Minister over drug issue, Kejri dared Majithia to get him arrested saying he wasn't afraid of "false cases". Kejri said, "I challenge Majithia to arrest me in six months as they are in power. Else, I will arrest him after six months. The people of Punjab will take revenge for each and every case against them. In the coming elections, people will take revenge from Majithia.

After six months (I will) reconstruct a new Punjab."

He said the state's drug problem is the reason why it is in such a bad shape.

In Brief

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Kalam's statue unveiled in Rameswaram

RAMESWARAM: A life-sized statue of former president Dr APJ Abdul Kalam was unveiled at Peiakarumbu on the occasion of his death anniversary. Inaugurating the statue, Union Minister M Venkaiah Naidu said, "Dr Kalam will live forever in our minds and heart. His thoughts continue to be with us all the time. It is difficult still to believe that Dr Kalam passed away and that this great man left all of us for his heavenly abode." The foundation stone for the national memorial was laid by Naidu and Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar.

Chidambaram likely to be made TNCC chief

CHENNAI: After deliberations over picking a new TNCC chief ahead of the local polls in Tamil Nadu, reports suggest the AICC will probably name former Union finance minister P Chidambaram to take over the position. It was been over a month since EVKS Elangovan resigned. When asked if he would be in the race to take over as the TNCC chief, Chidambaram said, “please ask the AICC.” Chidambaram has set a few conditions for taking up the task, including rejuvenating the party and expanding its base by bringing the warring factions together.

Karnataka CM's son passes away in Belgium

Sasikala Pushpa

AAP to release 1st list of candidates for Punjab polls CHANDIGARH: The Aam Aadmi Party will soon release the first list of 23 candidates for the upcoming Punjab state polls. The move comes after the party's Political Affairs Committee (PAC) gave its permission.

Volunteers recommended over 500 names for 23 seats of the assembly.

The party's screening committee for the state has short listed nearly 130 names, an average five to seven from each constituency, and then forwarded it to the PAC. The screening committee included AAP's national spokesperson Sanjay Singh, Faridkot MP Sadhu Singh, Sangrur MP Bhagwant Mann, Punjab convener Sucha Singh Chhotepur and national organisation building secretary Durgesh Pathak.

Meanwhile, party convener and New Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal who recently got bail in a defamation case filed by Bikram

tion that the party led by N Chandrababu Naidu could even walk out of the NDA. Earlier TDP has decided to seek Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention for granting special category status to Andhra Pradesh, saying they are "life and death" issues for the state.

The TDP also decided to launch protests to build pressure on the Centre over implementing the AP Reorganisation Act "in letter and spirit" and special status issues even as a party MP JC Diwakar Reddy targeted PM Modi and said "divorce" between the two NDA partners was inevitable sooner than later.

The Telugu Desam Parliamentary Party (TDPP) at an emergency meeting decided to organise "Japanese-style" protests, party President and Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said, adding their demands were "life and death issues" for the state and its future.

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CHENNAI: Customs and wildlife crime control bureau seized 500 star turtles at Chennai airport, while they were being smuggled to Malaysia in a Thai Airways flight. Officials grew suspicious when they found movement inside thermocol boxes that were to be uploaded as cargo in the flight. On opening the boxes, Thai Airways officials found at least 500 star turtles bundled in cloth bags.

Export of the particular animal is banned. Cosmic Exports, who were sending off the carriage signed as crabs is now under investigation, especially owner Rajavelan, for involvement in the smuggling.

An airport source said that under the Risk Management System, several parcels go unchecked which is how the consignment reached the aircraft. The turtles cost around Rs 5000,000 in the international market. Sources in the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau said nearly 10 such seizures of star turtle being exported to other countries were caught lately. Sections 9, 38, and 48A of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 says the export of star turtle as illegal. Officials now face a challenge of preserving the seized animals as neither the Vandalur Zoo nor the forest department has the facility to accommodate them.

India to step up efforts to get back Kohinoor NEW DELHI: The fight for Kohinoor is on, as the Union Government said it would make all efforts to get back the 106-carat diamond back from the British. The diamond, which stands at an estimated value of over $00 million, was transferred to the British East India Company's treasury in 1849, after the subjugation of Punjab by British forces.

A senior government source said, "The government is considering both diplomatic as well as legal channels to get back to the diamond. If India is able to get back the diamond through diplomatic efforts, then it would not go for the legal channel. But if that does not fructify, then the government will explore legal option." The move comes after UK Minister of Asia and Pacific Affairs Alok Sharma indicated the diamond could probably never find its way to India. "As far as this issue is concerned, there is no legal ground for restitution," he had

BENGALURU: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's 39-year-old son Rakesh passed away at a Brussels hospital on Saturday.

According to reports, Rakesh Siddaramaiah was undergoing treatment for acute pancreatitis at Antwerp University Hospital in Belgium capital and had been critical for the last two days. He was hospitalised after he complained of of severe stomach pain in Antwerp. Reports said that there was slight improvement in Rakesh's condition, though he continued to be in a critical state. Sources said that on Friday, a team of doctors performed a laparoscopic surgery to remove his gall bladder. Siddaramaiah along with his wife Parvathi and younger son Yathindra has rushed to Belgium on hearing the news.

Khattar reshuffles cabinet

CHANDIGARH: Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has expanded his ministry, including three new ministers and dropping two. Vipul Goyal (Faridabad), Manish Grover (Rohtak), and Banwari Lal (Bawal) were inducted, while Ghansham Das Saraf and Vikram Thekedar were dropped. This is the second expansion carried out by Khattar since his government assumed office on October 6, 2014. Departments of some sitting ministers are most likely to be reshuffled following the expansion.

Teenager vows to hoist tricolour

said during his visit last week.

As pressure builds on the government, Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma held a meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj where it was reportedly decided that India would approach Britain next month on the issue of bringing it back. The Apex Court is also hearing a case seeking the diamond's return and the meeting has also deliberated on the stand to be taken by the government before the court. The Kohinoor issue caught up a major controversy after a submission in the Supreme Court said that it was neither "forcibly taken nor stolen" by the British but given to the East India Company as a "gift" by the rulers of Punjab.

CHANDIGARH: Teenager Jhanvi Behal from Ludhiana, who had taken the internet by storm in March by challenging Jawaharlal Nehru University student union president Kanhaiya Kumar for an open debate on freedom of expression, has once again managed to bring all eyes on her after announcing that she would be hoisting the Indian tricolour at Lal Chowk in Srinagar on August 15. The Ludhiana girl said, "Main 15 August ko Lal Chowk pe tiranga phairaongi, kisi mein himmat hai to rok ke dikhaye (I will hoist the Indian tricolour at Srinagar's Lal Chowk on August 15. Stop if you can)."

School fined for celebrating Eid

GURGAON: A village panchayat in Haryana reportedly issued a racist diktat to a school by issuing a fine of Rs 550,000 for organising a special assembly marking Eid. The panchayat ordered the school to remove all Muslim staff and students, along with changing the uniform for girl students to salwar kameez. After the ruling, the one Muslim teacher in the school was forced to quit her job and move to Delhi, the school manager told media.

INDIA Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

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From Slum To Millionaire: A True Story Aaditya Kaza Living in the slums of New Delhi, he ran away from home aged 15, two years later he had 55 people working for him. Today, nearly 20 years on Ambarish Mishra, founder and boss of Blippar, a mobile phone app business is valued at $1.5bn or £1.2bn.

Blippar, launched in 2011, is an augmented reality app using the mobile phone's camera, it superimposes animation or graphics onto the surrounding world.

For example, focus on a limited edition can of CocaCola, a tie up partner of Blippar, and it becomes an animated jukebox that enables you to play music.

Or point the camera at an apple and a picture will appear on the screen along with a detailed guide to its history. The app also suggests related things to find out more about.

With the continuing popularity of augmented reality games like Pokemon Go, Blippar's launch five years ago seems prophetic. Blippar is also quite popular, with claims the app has racked up over 65 million users from 170 countries since 2011.

Raised in a middle class family in a mining town called Dhanbad, in Jharkhand.

Ambarish decided to run away from home after he started failing classes at school. He was also unhappy that his dad pressured him to take up engineering, while he wanted to work with computers. After weeks of planning, one day, he wrote a letter to his parents, packed a bag and left. Instead of Mumbai as he intended, Ambarish went to New Delhi and shared a "classic Indian shed, made of clay", with no sanitation in a slum of Delhi. While juggling his 2 jobs of selling magazines and working in a restaurant, he glanced through a newspaper and saw an advert offering $10,000 for a winning business idea.

At 16 year’s old, his idea was to provide free internet to women earning below a certain wage, motivated by the disparity he felt between the strong women in his family and the culture in wider Indian society. His idea won and he launched Woman Infoline from the prize money. The firm's business model was to provide internet access for free from the money from its advertising. Ambarish had 125 people working for him at its peak, but he eventually floated the company and resigned in 2000.

Ambarish Mishra

With the money from Women Infoline, Ambarish moved to the UK, as he wanted to start a UK-based technology company, but success proved elusive. He says "Almost nine years went by and everything I did was a disaster. All the ideas were very cool - but I couldn't pull it off. I was not left with any money.”

Ambarish become frustrated, and started drinking "quite heavily".

But then, one afternoon in a pub in Surrey, with drinking with Omar Tayeb, Blippar’s cofounder, everything changed. “The last round of drinks was £15 - I put the money on the bar and made a joke, saying 'imagine if Queen Elizabeth came out of the bank note?’.” Omar made an app prototype of Ambarish's face superimposed over the Queen’s. It was a trick they would show people in bars, until it dawned on him that they should build an app that "looks at everything in the world, and give you content on top of it”. And so Blippar was born and the rest history.

Blippar has offices in 12 locations globally, including London, New York, San Francisco, Delhi and Singapore."We are big for a young company," says Ambarish. While the pace of growth has been challenging, especially while hiring staff, Blippar has had no difficulty in raising funds.

The firm and its 300 employees has secured $99m of investment, including $54m from the Malaysian government's investment arm in early 2016. However, Blippar’s wealth comes by doing tieups with major global brands, which include Conde Nast, Jaguar, Unilever, and Nestle among others.

67,000 schools around the world use the app, including in the UK, US, India and Canada. In future, Ambarish wants the app to recognise everything in the physical world. One of his other aims is for Blippar to help educate and inform illiterate people, like providing audio guides for train networks.

Ram Katha in Athens

In Athens, Morari Bapu conducted his annual Ram Katha for 9 days between 23rd July-31st July. In the Athenian ballroom of the Athens Intercontinental Hotel over 1000 Hindus from across the globe gathered to hear him speak.

This year the main topic of discussion was Socrates and the thoughts and views old ancient Greece. The theme of nine days was of Satya, Prem, Kuruna, or Truth, Love, Compassion.

Organised by the Lady Popat Charitable Trust, the Youth were the main attraction with some of the major responsibility given to them under Mr Pavan Popat and 3 committee team. They coordinated the activities of 45 young volunteers who worked tirelessly, providing service to the devotees who attended. Among those attended were some prominent people included

Amit Jogia, Anil Pujara, William Neel, Lord Biku Parekh, well known journalist Jai Vasavda and of course Mr C B Patel, editor of Asian Voice, with entertainment in the form of dramatic acting by Mr Chintan Pandya of the

French opera.

On Saturday 23rd July, the Mayor of Athens, Georgios Kaminis attended the event and said “The people of Athens are proud to have Morari Bapu here.

He is inspired by the message of love and compas-

Remembering my father through Osman Mir music at Morari Bapu's Ramkatha

Veejaiyata Barot, MPharmS

The song starts up; the keys of the harmonium, the beat of the tabla and I’m taken back to the late evenings spent at home on the couch with my dad listening to his favourite ghazals. The chorus builds up, my eyes closed under some sort of spell and I’m swaying my head as I take on the melody.

They say music is, as close to magic that mankind will ever get. A huge fan of Indian folk music, my father would often spend evenings listening to songs by Jagjit Singh, Ghulam Ali, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Mohammed Rafi and

Osman Mir to name a few. He would sometimes get me, my brother and sisters to compile a playlist for him on YouTube and fall asleep to the contemplative and spiritual nature of the music. My father, Kishor Barot passed away in 2012 after a long battle with cancer. To me the music now serves as a soundtrack to my memories of him.

So on the last day of my trip to the Morari Bapu Ram Katha in Athens, they announced that there would be an evening concert of Osman Mir the following day.

Without hesitation I rescheduled my flight. My mum and I sat together at

HUMOUR CORNER A man went to a Chinese restaurant and this duck came up to him with a red rose and says "Your eyes sparkle like diamonds". After a pause, he said, "Waiter, I asked for a-ROMATIC duck". *** One afternoon a little boy was playing outdoors. He used his mother's broom as a horse and had a wonderful time until it was getting dark. He left the broom on the back porch. His mother was cleaning up the kitchen when she realised that her broom was missing. She asked the little boy about the broom and he told her where it was.

She then asked him to please go get it. The little boy informed his mom that he was afraid of the dark and didn't want to go out to get the broom. His mother smiled and said "The Lord is out there too, don't be afraid." The little boy opened the back door a little and said 'Lord if you're out there, hand me the broom." *** Two elderly ladies had been friends for many decades.

Over the years they had shared all kinds of activities and adventures. Lately, their activities had been limited to meeting a few times a week to play cards. One day they were playing cards when one looked at the other and said, "Now don't get mad at me... I know we've been friends for a long time... but I just can't think of your name! I've thought and thought, but I can't remember it. Please tell me what your name is."

Her friend glared at her. For at least three minutes she just stared and glared at her. Finally she said, "How soon do you need to know?"

the back of the venue moved by the spirit and atmosphere created by Osman Mir and his band.

For those few hours we both felt a strong sense of nostalgia as we were taken back into our living room, sitting on the couch enjoying the music with dad. If this isn’t magic, I don’t know what is. For this I can’t thank enough the Popat family and everybody else involved in organizing such a wonderful katha.

Compared to early 70s, though detection of cancer, recovery and life expectancies have increased, it can still be treated as an epidemic.

Veejaiyata lost her father to cancer in 2012.

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sion and was feeling proud and blessed. The Indian community are hard workers and clever. We are undergoing recession despite this you all came here. We are very happy”.

Answering to questions posed by local journalists, Morari Bapu said “I have gone to Rome, Africa, Jerusalem and other parts of the world, however India and Greece have an historic relationship. I respect the principles of Socrates and the new generation should know who he is. The roots of democracy, medical science, art have all come from Greece.

Greek and Indian culture share a bridge and I have come to rebuild the ties.”

Bapu continued, “Socrates talks about truth.

My message to Greece is the three principles of truth, love and compassion is very important. The world is fearful without truth. The world will be fearless when the world is against violence. Today no one is willing to sacrifice for on another, unless there is compassion there can’t be love for others.

This is not a lecture, this is 9 days of Anusthan or worship. Normally Indians come to Greece and Athens so tourists, now they will for pilgrimage”.

Speaking during the event Asian Voice editor said “I know Lord Popat for 40 years, I am expecting to learn news things.

The event which has been aimed at the youth has had an effect. I have seen an amazing transformation in the youth. I remember the Ram Katha in 1988 held in Preston where many were unemployed but they had inner power and dedication. Even though the numbers of Hindus are low the future of Hinduism is very secure.”

“Looks like your repetitive speeches no longer interest the people”

INDIA

26

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Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

Dalit couple hacked to death in UP for Rs 15 amount to a local shopkeeper called Ashok Mishra. The deceased were on their way to work in the field one morning when they were confronted by Mishra, who demanded they immediately repay his money. When the couple said they would pay him in the evening, the argument escalated into a physical fight when Mishra allegedly attacked the couple with an axe.

The accused and his

A Dalit couple was hacked to death in Uttar Pradesh's Mainpuri district for a petty sum of Rs 15. Bharat Singh, 65, and his wife Mamta, 60, were brutally attacked with an axe after they were allegedly unable to pay the amount. Police said the couple was found dead with injuries to their neck.

Residents of Lakhnipur village in the Kurra police station area of Mainpuri, the couple owed the

wife Rajni have been arrested, and booked under Section 302 of the IPC and Section 3 (2) 5 of the stringent Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribes Act. Police also recovered the axe used in the crime.

Dalits constitute 21 per cent of UP’s population.

According to a recent report, with 20 per cent of India’s Dalit population, UP accounts for 17 per cent of the crimes against them.

Pune’s famed ‘gold man’ bludgeoned to death The businessman from Pune, who shot to fame with his gold shirt, in 2012, was bludgeoned to death by a gang of 12 people in front of his son. Dattatray Phuge, 47, who ran the Vakratunda Chit Fund company in Bhosari, was attacked at an open ground in Dighi area, where he was killed on the spot. Police suspect the attack came over some dispute regarding a money transaction. Phuge’s son Shubham and the eyewitness lodged a complaint with the police and a probe was launched soon, leading to the arrest of five people.

"Phuge and his son were

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Kalpana Baravkar said while search for the brain behind the crime, Atul Mohite, is going on, those arrested have been identified as Amol alias Balli Kailas Pathare, Shailesh Suryakant Walke, Vishal Datta Parkhe, Nivrutti, and Prem. She added, "Last year, an offence of cheating was registered against Phuge at the Khadki police station for financial fraud.

Also, a proposal of extern Phuge was put up following complaints of financial disputes and hooliganism against him. But the proposal was not approved."

Dattatray Phuge

invited by one of the suspects, who knew each other, to celebrate a birthday party. However, we are investigating how Phuge reached the open ground where he was murdered," said a police officer.

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Acche din ends for Anandiben

Continued from page 1

Just when the ashes left behind by the Patel protests began to cool down, the July 11 flogging of four Dalit boys divided the state yet again, leaving Anandiben in a fray of her losing power in the party.

Add to this, allegations of land scams involving her family, and the arrival of BJP president Amit Shah, and what remained, was a pile of hot mess for 'Ben' to clear up. Speculations of her resignation rose when the Patel andolan began, as many in her party felt she did not meet up the challenge and lacked the grit to deal with the crisis; particularly one that threatened to affect the ruling government in the state.

In her post, Anandiben wrote that she had sought to resign from the party two months earlier, to give "enough time to the new incumbent to prepare for important events like the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat summit." She said, "I had the opportunity to take up several responsibilities as a worker in the Bharatiya Janata Party, for the last 30 years. The party gave me critical assignments in the organisation as well as in the government. Which I consider my good fortune."

"I had requested senior leaders of the party to relieve me of this responsibility two months ago.

Today, once again through this letter I humbly request the party's senior leadership to relieve me of the chief minister's responsibility. I have had the opportunity to serve the dignified people of Gujarat and I have tried my level best to reach the benefits of the services to the last man," she said.

Responding to the announcement, Amit Shah said, "She has requested the party to relieve her of Amit Shah, 52

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Anandiben's post, Rupala is an admired orator in Gujarat, following Modi, of course.

He is deemed to be the reason behind the speculations of Anandiben's ouster began. The national party president, Amit Shah is the second most powerful figure after Modi.

Card No: Signature

Dalit Protest Four Dalit youths were flogged and brutalised by self-acclaimed 'gau rakshaks' for allegedly skinning a dead cow.

Repercussions of which, are still seen in areas of Gujarat. The power of technology spread the news like wildfire, but the CM took her time addressing the issue. Visiting the victims eight days after angry Dalits took to the roads, what she clearly didn't comprehend, was the taking up of the issue in the Rajya Sabha.

The BJP had no answers, and it was possibly the first time the country turned towards Gujarat, after the 2002 Godhra riots.

All the arguments aside, all wasn't lost under her governance. Just before she chose to quit, Anandiben initiated quite a few moves that gave her supporters something to grind on. Abolishing of highway toll for small and private vehicles, making higher education free for girls from lower-middle class families, withdrawal of nearly 90 per cent of the cases filed against Patidar families, are amongst them.

Once the dust settles on her resignation, the question of who will take the reins next, arises. The Gujarat Modi left behind was a glorified unity of Hindutva, a place where the BJP once roared. What lies now is a dishevelled state with a cracked ruling government. It is not enough for just another chief minister. Gujarat perhaps needs another Modi.

Race for Power Names of several BJP leaders have popped up to replace Anandiben. In a party meeting held in New Delhi, Amit Shah said it would take two to three days to announce her successor.

Nitin Patel, 60 Officially No. 2 in the cabi-

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the post. I will place the letter she has written to me before the (BJP) parliamentary board and it will take a decision. She has said that if a new person has to be brought in, then he should get time. Gujarat elections have to take place in 2017, and there is also the Vibrant Gujarat summit in January, which has been a long tradition. She said if Vibrant Gujarat has to happen in January, then the new person should get the opportunity now."

Appointing Anandiben as the Gujarat chief minister was a move personally made by Modi himself. The decision, which none of the party could oppose, was taken with a pinch of salt, as several party leaders saw Shah in her place.

Anandiben had strained relationships with senior ministers, including Saurabh Patel, and then party president RC Faldu.

Patel Reservation Agitation Anandiben's flustered take on the violent reservation protest drove an unrepairable rift between her and her community. While Patels felt she did not have it in her to offer them what they wanted, her fellow leaders shook their heads in disbelief as the 2015 civic polls reflected of the consequences. A state that was once known as the mainstay of the BJP, saw the party losing out, especially in rural areas.

The state once again reeled under quota stress and Patidar leader Hardik Patel made the nastiest of jibes at Anandiben, all met with matching savouriness.

Anandiben's government invoked the harshest sedition charges against Hardik and other protesters, further damaging her relationship with the community. It took a last minute intervention by Saurabh Patel for normalcy to return to the region.

The main contenders for the CM's post

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dent, Rupala was recently appointed as the minister of state, agriculture, in the central cabinet. Once a popular contender for

widely accepted by his party members and is capable of handling political crisis well. net, Gujarat's health and family welfare minister, Nitin Patel, sure knows how to throw his weight around. He was deputed by the party high command to manage the Patidar crisis and headed a panel of seven ministers that looked into the demand.

Vijay Rupani, 60 Rupani is considered to be the most non-controversial leader in the party. He is

Saurabh Patel, 58

One of the most educated ministers in the state cabinet, Patel became prominent during the reservation protests last year. He is the brains behind Asia's biggest solar power project.

HEALTH&WELLNESS - UK

AsianVoiceNewsweekly | Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

AsianVoiceNews

FOOD

Third World Tamils economic conference in Chennai

Chennai is all set to host the Third World Tamils Economic Conference2016, from 1st to 5th October. Organised with the aim to bring Tamils and the Indian Community and foster co-operation and tap human and material resources for collective growth.

The TWTEC will conduct a five day forum of networking experiences, where the conference will include Plenary Sessions, Paper Presentation, Book Presentation, Exhibition, Awards, Networking Gettogether and cultural program. The platform will help participants discuss business and investment opportunities, professional networking, knowledge sharing along with the current global economic scenario.

Key speakers for the event include ministers, ambassadors of different governments, distinguished guests, business leaders, community leaders, economists, professionals, and academicians.

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Over 4,000 Hindus in the UK celebrate 50 years of HSS achievements FITNESS

This weekend saw a mammoth gathering of over 2200 Hindus living in tents for a weekend full of yoga, fun and a sense of community. The ‘MegaGlamping’ experience on Hertfordshire Country Grounds brought families together for a distinct experience, with an emphasis on being environmentally friendly and being one with nature, all in celebration of the 50th birthday of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh UK (HSS). The finale saw a further 2000 attend to see the participants perform in unison various specially organised activities including Yogasana (yoga exercises for body mind and soul), Ghosh (musical band) and Niyuddh (traditional self defence martial arts).

The entire pop-up village has been in the planning for almost a year with over 400 volunteers arriving a week early to erect tents and create a program of activities all designed to promote Sanskar ( good Dharmic values), Sewa (selfless charity in action) and Sangathan (Unity in the community). The event

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LIFESTYLE

attracted a diverse range of participants –men and women with an age range as wide as from 4 months to the oldest attendee who was 92 years young from over 91 towns and cities all over the UK and Europe.

Every concept was planned meticulously by volunteers and to the surprise of many who visited the site, this was achieved without any external funding or sponsorship. The end result was an inimitable campus experience that highlighted the uniqueness of HSS’ philos-

ophy – “we achieve by our own efforts”. Every component of the Mega-camp had a dharmic (social consciousness) theme that was evident throughout from “an interview with Bhagwan (god) ” session specially organised for children in the purpose built crèche to a museum style exhibition complete with a separate bookshop that required participants to be gently “moved on” to allow all the visitors a chance to glimpse its magnificence. Even meals were planned with an eye on the

Hindu ethos of being environmentally friendly. All plates and utensils were recyclable, whilst being fully vegetarian too. The aim being to create an atmosphere of fun, togetherness and Hindu Values whilst making attendees think about protecting the environment.

President of HSS, Dhiraj Shah said: “When people see the village their first reaction is WOW! The sheer scale of it is incredible but the fact that so many people are living in harmony and equality

whilst enjoying the incredible atmosphere is equally special.

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh has been instilling the ethos of hard work, good morals and selfless working for over 50 years and it’s effects are being felt in the UK through our integration and affection for the country so we decided to celebrate this milestone in a grand fashion.”

Dr Vidula Ambekar of Hindu Sevika Samiti (the parallel women’s organisation ) added that “ the dharmic principles which Hindu women try to inculcate in their daily family lives need to be encouraged throughout British society and many Hindu girls and women are taking up this challenge. It is both with a sense of humility and pride that we celebrate what we have accomplished but we want to pledge more efforts to achieve even more so that dharmic values such as respect for the teachers, elderly and everything that is around us becomes embedded in to the social consciousness of all for the betterment of the whole of British Society.”

'Transformational leaders' may harm health of others

A

health conditions.

"Such leaders express values to perform above and beyond the call of duty possibly at the expense of employees' health because they have a self-interest in demonstrating low sickness absence rates in their work groups," the authors noted.

This pattern may be a particular problem in organisations where managers are rated according to their ability to control sickness absence levels. The research focused on postal workers and their managers in Denmark over three years. In total, there were 155 participants in 22 work groups.

Employees rated their immediate line manager at the start of the study and were asked about their sickness absence and presenteeism for the previous year.

Sickness absence was assessed again in the second

and third year.

The authors found that transformational leadership increased sickness absence when workers exhibited 14 more days of presenteeism than their colleagues. The findings suggests that more immediate, short term effects can be found among staff but for vulnerable workers, such as those with high levels of presenteeism, increasing adverse effects take longer to materialise.

Lack of recovery time may also explain this effect,

leading to them eventually having to go off sick because they can no longer ignore their symptoms. "The assumption that 'more transformational leadership is better' does not hold over time. As role models, transformational leaders should display healthy behaviours when motivating people and encourage workers to look after their own health," added Kevin Daniels, professor of organisational behaviour at UEA's Norwich Business School.

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"Transformational leaders may promote self-sacrifice of vulnerable employees for the greater good of the group by encouraging them to ignore their illnesses and exert themselves. This can lead to increased risks of sickness absence in the long term," Nielsen noted.

Transformational leadership has previously been associated with positive employee well-being and reduced general absenteeism in the short term.

However, the new study suggests that a transformational leader who encourages their group to make an extra effort at work may exacerbate sickness absence, as high levels of presenteeism may result in reduced opportunities for recovery along with the risk of spreading contagious

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new research has revealed that seniors who inspire their subordinates to perform over and above their call of duty may actually harm their employees' health over time. The findings suggest that constant pressure from these "transformational leaders" may increase sickness absence levels among employees.

Some vulnerable employees in groups with such "transformational leaders" may, in the long term, increase sickness absence rates if they ignore their ill-health and frequently show up for work while being ill. "It is possible that high-performance expectations pose a risk to both healthy and vulnerable employees and the motivational aspects of transformational leadership may backfire," said Karina Nielsen, professor of work and organisational psychology at Norwich-based University of East Anglia

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AsianVoiceNews

Date set for Tamannaah and Prabhu Deva movie Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

Amala Paul and Vijay split?

AsianVoiceNewsweekly

K

ollywood's sweetheart Amala Paul and Vijay are headed for divorce after two years of marriage and three years of courtship. While she had made quite the impact with 'Mynaa', many believe it was director Vijay who helped navigate her career success with films like 'Deiva Thirumagal' and 'Thalaivaa'. On the job front, Amala has a lot on her hands with 'Vada Chennai' trilogy with Dhanush, 'Hebbuli' with Sudeep in Kannada, and a couple of projects in Malayalam.

Kajal Aggarwal unlikely to star in Chiranjeevi’s 150th film

K

L

ong after the film was made, makers of Tamil film 'Devi (L)' have finally announced 9.9.2016 as its release date.

The horror features actress Tamannaah who plays the titular role, and Prabhu

Deva, who plays the male lead. Produced by Prabhu Deva Studios, the movie also features Sonu Sood, Abijith Paul, Farah Khan, and Amy Jackson in guest appearances. Its Hindi adaptation is titled 'Abinetri'.

Rajini thanks fans as 'Kabali' earns more than £20 mn

Dhanush fulfills 12 year old's last wish

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I

f you needed a reason to love the 'Maari' actor multi-tasker Dhanush who was shooting for his 'Vada Chennai' project, took time off recently to meet a fan. It was twelve year old Koteeswari's, who is in the

last stages of blood cancer, last wish to meet the actor.

Dhanush, as soon as word reached him through the power of the internet, immediately responded and visited the girl and spent quality time with her and her family.

eruppu Da! Rajinikanth starrer 'Kabali' has managed to break all records in less than a week of its release. It has officially entered the £20 million club worldwide, and become the fastest South Indian movie to rake in that much money in just five days. Trade analyst Trinath said, "In the domestic market, the film collected a whopping £12.8 million from the opening weekend.

It's the best ever opening for a South Indian film."

Extending his gratitude, Thalaivar issued a handwritten letter to his fans, producer Kalaipuli S Thanu, director Ranjith, theatre owners and distributors, for the grand success.

"My heartfelt gratitude to all those who made 'Kabali' successful. From the producer to director to fans and to the media, I thank each and every one of them," Rajinikanth said. In the letter, he also wrote about his US sabbatical.

"Since I was working nonstop on 'Kabali', and Shankar's '2.o', I was required to take mental and physical rest. Hence, I went on a two-month long trip with my daughter, Aishwarya Dhanush, and during which time I had undergone a few medical tests," he said. Although he had heard about the rage his movie prompted, he said, "To see and experience in person gives me immense happiness."

ajal Aggarwal might not star in Chiranjeevi's next.

An official remake of Tamil superhit 'Kaththi,' the project has a lot riding behind it as it happens to be Chiranjeevi's 150th film. A source from the crew said, "Although Kajal is one of the actors under consideration, the makers haven't signed her on yet." He added, "She was recently signed on for Ajith Kumar's next project. This film will require her to be part of over a month-long schedule in Bulgaria next month.

Hence, she might not have the dates to do Chiranjeevi's project." The mega-project will introduce Ram Charan as a producer, and be directed by VV Vinayak.

Fever

A suspense thriller with Rajeev Khandelwal and Gauhar Khan in the lead.

The Legend of Michael Mishra

A comedy featuring Arshad Warsi and Aditi Rao Hydari.

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Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

Jacqueline and Tiger's mid-air romance

reveals her 'fondness' for Sidharth

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lia Bhatt put a lid on rumours saying she and beau Sidharth Malhotra have called it quits after months of dating. In a recent interview, the 'Highway' actress said that an actor's hectic travel schedules often make them lose touch with people for a while, which is assumed by media portals that they have "broken up". She also added that she has never been secretive of her "fondness" for 'Kapoor and Sons’ co-star and that the "level of fondness" will only get better. Also reacting to another report saying she threw a party to officially announce her relationship with Sidharth, Alia called it "absolute crap". She said her 'Kapoor & Sons' co-star wasn't a new person who had just shifted from the UK to Mumbai and that she did not need to introduce him to anybody.

The actress further said that if Sidharth were her boyfriend, she would have never thrown a party to introduce him as she wasn’t good at throwing parties.

The talented beauty even said that Sidharth wasn’t a new acquisition that she would show off.

Secret behind Katrina’s killer abs in ‘Kala chashma’

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fter Parineeti Chopra, it was Katrina Kaif who wowed us with her washboard abs. Flaunting her super hot bod in her new dance number 'Kaala Chashma' from upcoming 'Baar Baar Dekho', the diva is without a doubt, "body goals" for young women everywhere.

However, it was her trainer Yasmin Karachiwala who faced the wrath (read desperation) of people around the world, who wrecked her email and blast her phone inquiring about Katrina's fitness schedule. Sharing her secret, Yasmin said, "Katrina has been at a good fitness level for a very long time. She is very regular and disciplined with her routine and we have been maintaining that, getting better and better with every passing day. Her abs in the song are definitely because of her combination of Pilates and cardio. I have been doing a lot of alignment work especially on her abs, focusing more on her abdomen. But having said that, we've been equally working out on her arms and other parts of the body."

Talking about her diet, the trainer said, "Katrina is very good with her food. She has oat cake in the morning followed by lunch which will be fish and vegetables. Later, she'll munch on healthy snacks in the evening which we

love scene runs into trouble he Central Board of Film Certification is not just troubling the Indian film fraternity anymore.

Claiming its new international victim, Brett Lee, the board has given red signal to his debut 'UnIndian'.

On being asked to tone down a one minute eight second love making scene between the former cricketer and actress Tannishta Chatterjee, the filmmakers agreed to the alteration and cut down the scene into a total of 26 seconds.

The Examining Committee said, "Remove the sideways visual and end climatic shot. The sex scene not to be synchronised with the mantra chanting." It also asked the makers to make the amendment if they expect a U/A. Upset, director Anupam Sharma said, "The love scene runs simultaneously with a sermon scene where followers chant 'Om Shreem Hreem' which are spiritual chants and not religious. I'm a practising Hindu myself so there is no way I would offend anyone's sentiments."

He added, "My film is not as politically powerful as 'Udta Punjab' so I don't have to make a statement. I cannot lose out on my audience at the cost of retaining my interest as a filmmaker. We have about three weeks left for release (August 19), so I will oppose the cut from my end.

At the same time, I cannot hold my distributors and producer at ransom.

I wonder how no lesson has been learnt, even after the Bombay High Court making it clear that the CBFC does not have the power to 'censor' films. Of all films, this one is the last film that needs to run into controversy."

I am not quitting Bollywood: Nargis Fakhri

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argis Fakhri has faced her share of bull on the internet, making headlines, all for her alleged break up with producer Uday Chopra. In recent reports, the actress was said to have quit Bollywood and settled in the US with no plans to return.

The actress, however, gave a befitting reply to all the

haters, by sharing a poster of her upcoming film 'Banjo' with a caption saying,

"Looking forward to finishing my assignment in the US and being back to start promoting #Banjo in the next few weeks. #noplanstoquit #hatersgonnahate #allthesearebaselessrumours" Nargis seems to be taking hold of her life ever since she left India, post her alleged split with Uday Chopra. The diva, who was

perks. Sigh!

The movie is about a Sikh man who acquires superhero powers and how he copes with them.

With Fernandez and Shroff in the lead, the movie also shows Amrita Singh as a Punjabi mother and Nathan Jones of WWE fame. Directed by Remo D'Souza, 'A Flying Jatt' runs high on fight scenes and gravity-defying stunts. It is all set to hit the theatres on August 25, 2016.

Brett Lee’s T

serve at our gym, like healthy cakes, protein crushers and stuff like that. They are made out of low sugar, dark chocolate so that it comes tasty and healthy at the same time. Then for dinner, she has eggs and soup."

T

iger Shroff is everywhere with the trailer of 'A Flying Jatt' out now. And as if visuals of a totally ripped superhero flying around to stop crime wasn't good enough, makers of the film released song 'Toota Jo Tara', a romantic number showing actress Jacqueline Fernandez and Shroff performing an aerial dance. We all know dating a superhero has its

missing at the ‘Housefull 3’ promotions, is slowly returning to the spotlight.

The latest Facebook post by the ‘Rockstar’ hottie was every bit inspiring and soothing. Nargis wrote on her wall, "Life is too short to be anything but happy. Love deeply, forgive quickly, take chances, give everything with no regrets."

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Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

Leading heart surgeon accused of rape and sexual assault A top heart surgeon is accused of raping a woman and sexually assaulting at least three others in a span of 13 years, a court has heard.

Fifty-three-year-old Mohamed Amrani appeared at Hammersmith Magistrates Court on July 27 charged with 11 offences, including one count of rape, two charges of assault by penetration, six charges of indecent assault and two charges of sexual assault, all on women over 16.

The Moroccan-born Harley Street consultant works at Royal Brompton & Harefield NHS Trust. He also works at The BUPA Cromwell Hospital, in South Kensington, where one of the alleged sexual assaults took place.

Amrani, who lives in Harrow, London, was granted conditional bail and the case has now been sent to Isleworth Crown

Court for a hearing on August 24.

A spokesman for the Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust was quoted in Daily Mail as saying: “The General Medical Council has suspended Mr Amrani's licence to practice and he is therefore currently excluded from working at the trust.”

Also, a spokesman for the Cromwell Hospital in the same media report said: “We suspended Mr Amrani the moment the police alerted us about their investigation.”

Coming Events

l Sri Sri Thakur Anukul Chandras Satsang is taking place on Saturday 6th August from 6.30pm onwards at Reading Hindu Temple, 12 Whitley Street, Reading RG2 0EG. For more information contact Rajarshi Roy 07810 377974

l London Sevashram Sangha continues its series of lectures on Hinduism continues with Caste and Class Systems - A Comparative Analysis by Swami Nirliptananda on Saturday 13th August Time: 4pm till 5.30pm Venue: London Sevashram Sangha, 99a Devonport Road, London W12 8PB

Terrorism warning signs The charity Aid Convoy has been under the spotlight recently as the police investigate potential connections between the charity and terrorist groups such as ISIS and al-Qaeda.

A local Primary School in London was affected by the investigation when they raised hundreds of pounds for the charity unaware of its potential links to the terrorist groups. Previously, there were questions raised about the charity when it was found out that the charity was set up by the extremist preacher Usman Ali.

The Police noted that they were concerned that the money raised by the primary school children would be used to fund terrorist activities. The connection was made when a volunteer Marcus Solak was arrested in an alleged Isis safe house in Turkey with Aine Davis, a fellow Briton who is believed to be part of Jihadi John's socalled “Beatles” beheading gang.

Investigations are on going but so far police have found no proof that the money raised has gone to fund any terrorist group.

Labour's cold shoulder towards businesses The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan recently gave an interview in the Telegraph stating that the relationship the party has with businesses has been at an all time low. Historically speaking Labour has never had a strong relationship with businesses in the first place and having more of an affinity towards Unions.

However, in this economy with the huge result of Brexit Khan has now called for Corbyn to change the way Labour works and welcome businesses under its wing if they want to win the next general election.

Khan mentioned in his interview that at the moment he is lobbying David Davis, the Brexit Secretary to take advice from City Hall on the priorities for London during the negotiations that will be held in conjunction with the EU.

l Shakti Day Centre celebrating Shrawan - Vadil Sanmaan and Independence Day - Wednesday 17th August, Byron Hall, Harrow Leisure Centre, HA3 5BD Time: 9.30 onwards. For more information contact: Ranjanben Manek 07930 335978 ; Varsha Dalia 07903 878401 ; Chandra Sodha 07830 221976 ; Jyoti Desai 07914 849001 ; Kalpana Bhatt 07894 992345 Editor: CB Patel Associate Editor: Rupanjana Dutta Tel: 020 7749 4098 - Email: rupanjana.dutta@abplgroup.com Deputy Editor: Anand Pillai Tel: 020 7749 4002 - Email: anand.pillai@abplgroup.com Senior News Editor: Dhiren Katwa Chief Operating Officer: Liji George Tel: 020 7749 4013 Email: george@abplgroup.com Advertising Managers: Kishor Parmar Tel: 020 7749 4095 - Mobile: 07875 229 088 Email: kishor.parmar@abplgroup.com Senior Business Development Manager: Rovin J George - Email: rovin.george@abplgroup.com Tel: 020 7749 4097 - Mobile: 07875 229 219 Head - New Projects & Business Development: Cecil Soans - Email: cecil.soans@abplgroup.com Tel: 020 7749 4097 - Mobile: 07875 229 111 Advertising Sales Executive: Rintu Alex - Email: Rintu.alex@abplgroup.com Tel: 020 7749 4003 - Mobile: 07816 213 610 Business Development Manager: Urja Patel - Email: urja.patel@abplgroup.com Journalist & Marketing Coordinator: Aaditya Kaza - Email: aaditya.kaza@abplgroup.com Tel: 020 7749 4009 - Mobile: 07702 669 453 Graphic Designers: Harish Dahya & Ajay Kumar Tel: 020 7749 4086 Email: graphics@abplgroup.com Customer Service: Ragini Nayak Tel: 020 7749 4080 - Email: support@abplgroup.com Leicester Distributors: Shabde Magazine, Shobhan Mehta Mob: 07846480220 (BPO) AB Publication (India) Pvt. Ltd. 207 Shalibhadra Complex, Opp. Jain Derasar,

ARIES Mar 21 - Apr 20 Responsibility is your key

word, especially at work.

Set your own goals, rather than trying to meet those set by someone else. Your ability to manage what you have on your plate earns respect from others around you.

You will benefit in every way if you learn to self-discipline and pace yourself wisely.

TAURUS Apr 21 - May 21 Brilliant ideas come easily as you trust your higher self and allow thoughts to flow freely. You are able to embrace new opportunities and make positive changes in your life. Your efforts bring a greater stability to your work than ever before.

This is an important development, considering all the changes occurring around you.

GEMINI May 22 - June 22 This is a good time to

appreciate what you have already created in your life. Of course, there are still challenging issues on both a personal and practical level. To get here you may have overcome obstacles by making important decision and choices that set the direction of your life.

CANCER Jun 22 - Jul 22 It’s all about communications, as they take centre stage this week. You’ll have to openly speak up about your wants and needs without fear. Regarding love there will be a struggle between devotion and freedom. You need to feel completely consumed by the passion of your lover, and yet you need personal space to explore your own thing.

LEO Jul 23 - Aug 23 Three planets transit your solar second house. This is the most "financial" period of the year for you. You have an increased interest in your own possessions, during this period. You are more attracted to objects and possessions that give you a sense of comfort, status, or luxury now. Careful with your extravagant spending habits.

VIRGO Aug 24 - Sep 23 It's an excellent period for increased energy and motivation, so that new endeavors, whether they are business or health-related, or personal, fare especially well. You are more decisive and forward-looking now, and you feel that your decisions are right. With Venus in your sign, love should be blossoming.

LIBRA Sep 24 - Oct 23 The Sun continues to put a spotlight on your solar eleventh house. You will benefit from networking in this period and you might find some great ideas through others now. Working in a team will also benefit you. You are more attracted to that which is progressive or unconventional during this cycle.

SCORPIO Oct 24- Nov 22

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Your social graces will serve you well career-wise. Mixing business with pleasure will bring you benefits. All things considered, your health should be robust. The more you live up to your own set of principles the more you’ll gain. A good time for restructuring and rethinking your aims and interests.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 23 - Dec 21 If you are your own boss, then you can look forward to a fairly good week. Those of you who face a strict schedule may find the next seven days a little frustrating, because this is a week where you will need a certain amount of personal space. You may be absorbing new ideas about how to create financial independence. Others may not understand, so you may have to keep your ideas to yourself.

CAPRICORN Dec 22 - Jan 20 Your horizons are most certainly expanding. Your philosophical thoughts will make your mind run wild. With three planets transiting your Solar 9th House, there will be many opportunities.

Your financial affairs are looking up. Do not miss out on ways to better yourself in the coming weeks.

AQUARIUS Jan 21 - Feb 19 It is a particularly favourable time for dealing with financial interests with a long-term basis, such as investments, insurance and pension schemes, legacies and all jointly held resources. There may be a certain amount of unfinished business to be dealt with. Therefore you will need to adopt a fairly flexible policy in order to accommodate the odd twists and turns of everyday life.

PISCES Feb 20 - Mar 20

A blast of personal energy comes your way, and showing your leadership skills works for you now. Romance and pleasure are highlighted this week. The flowing, expressive, and spontaneous energy surrounding you attracts like-minded people. Be sure to take time to enjoy yourself, preferably around others!

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India to host Kabaddi World Cup in October AsianVoiceNews

India will host the kabaddi world cup in October this year, the International Kabaddi Federation (IKF) said.

Twelve teams, including, the United States, Canada, UK, Australia, Iran, Poland, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Korea, Japan and Kenya, apart from hosts India, are set to take part in the competition for the top honours.

Kabaddi became a part of Asian Games in the year 1990 and India has won all the gold medals since then. "The International Kabaddi Federation is immensely proud that Kabaddi is growing in popularity so fast and is all set to breakthrough on a global stage with the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup scheduled in India. We are committed to nurturing the sport across the globe," Janardan Singh Gehlot,

AsianVoiceNewsweekly

president of IKF said.

"The phenomenal success of Pro Kabaddi and the participation of players from around the world is a testament to kabaddi's promise as a global sport.

We are delighted and proud to have India host 12 countries for the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup," Gehlot added.

Mohammad Raza Maghsodlou, vice presi-

dent of the Asian Kabaddi Federation and secretary of Kabaddi Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran, stated that the 12 participating countries are already engaged with training and other preparations for the World Cup. "Iran sees a global future for Kabaddi. Of course, the team from Iran is very good and we will participate with a view to

lifting the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup," Maghsodlou said.

Significantly, the Iranian team gave the Indian side a close fight in the final of the 2014 Asian Games Kabaddi competition. Several Iranian players are star performers at the Star Sports Pro Kabaddi league and much sought after by the league franchises.

Lanka beat Australia by 106 runs in 1st Test Sri Lanka beat the top ranked Australia by 106 runs in the rain affected first test at Pallekele stadium. Lanka's feat was possible on the good performance of spinner Rangana Herath backed up centurion Kusal Mendis' superlative effort.

Herath, 38, grabbed 554 to help the hosts bundle out Australia for 161 on the fifth and final day after they were set a challenging 268 in the second innings.

Australian skipper Steven Smith posted a gritty halfcentury before Steve O'Keefe and Peter Nevill frustrated Sri Lanka with a 178-ball partnership.

Herath bagged the last Australian wicket to fall by cleaning up O'Keefe to trigger wild celebration in the Lankan camp. This was Sri Lanka's only second Test win against Australia in 27 matches.

It was batsman Mendis (176) who set up the unlike-

ly win for Sri Lanka with his superb maiden ton in his team's second innings after the hosts overcame an 86run deficit. The 21-year-old Mendis, the only centurion in a low-scoring contest, played a memorable 254ball knock laced with 21 fours and a six.

"Special knock by a special young player. Fantastic effort," an elated Sri Lankan skipper Angelo Mathews said at the post-match presentation. For Lankan spinners it was a race against time as rain threatened to

thwart their chances of upsetting firm favourites Australia but Herath had other ideas in mind.

The left-arm spinner, who grabbed four wickets in the first innings, made life miserable for the Australian batsmen on a turning track on the fifth morning. Smith, whose 55 was the next best after Mendis' century, was trapped LBW by Herath as Australia slipped to 141 for seven at lunch. Debutant chinaman bowler Lakshan Sandakan, who bagged seven wickets in the match,

provided the perfect foil to Herath's experience.

"The old man Herath was brilliant once again.

Sandakan is a brilliant find for us. We knew that the wicket was going to take turn and Sandakan responded brilliantly," said Mathews. O'Keefe, who was ruled out of the remainder of the series after injuring his hamstring, surprised the opposition by turning up at the crease on Saturday.

O'Keefe and Nevill resisted stoutly with one eye on the skies but could only delay the inevitable. "Tough week, credit to Sri Lanka the way they played. We let ourselves down with the bat, we weren't disciplined with the bat. Credit to Kusal, his 176 turned the game," said Smith.

Brief scores: Sri Lanka 117 & 353 beat Australia 203 & 161 in 88.3 overs (Smith 55, Burns 29; Herath 5-54, Sandakan 349)

Shiva Thapa – a contender for gold in boxing Shiva Thapa, 22, is one of the three Indian boxers representing India at the Rio Olympics. Thapa, who became the youngest boxer to qualify for Olympics in 2012, would like to put the London horror behind when he takes the ring in the Bantamweight category. In a sport which has been hit by plenty of offring mess in the country, Thapa was the first boxer to secure a berth, and his journey from a young boxer in 2012 to a confident one in 2016 makes him a good medal contender for the Summer Games.

After a gold in Asian Olympic Qualifiers in 2012, Thapa was pinned as the hope of Indian boxing, after Vijender Singh. His London outing, however, lasted only one round as he

lost the opening contest 914 to Mexico’s Oscar Valdez Fierro. Thapa, however, didn’t let the London disappointment derail his progress as he went about doing business, and winning medals. Year 2013 was a great year for the youngster as he won a Asian Confederation gold before entering the quarters of the World Championship. After the

2013, it was a new low for Thapa in 2014 as he failed to win a medal in either Commonwealth Games or Asian Games. Confident and raring to go, Thapa gives India hope of a medal in the sport which has been hit by plenty of controversies since 2012 – a year which saw as many as eight boxers battle it out for a medal. Thapa will battle out in the Round of 32 con-

test to start his campaign and it will be followed by Round of 16, quarters, semis and the final. These stages provided he wins the opening round.

Qualification: Thapa qualified after an appearance in the Asian Olympic Qualifying event finals in April, 2016 Career highlights: Thapa had a roller coaster start to his journey as the high before 2012 Olympics was followed by some lows.

Year 2013 did offer some consolations with gold at Asian Confederation but it was 2014 which turned out to be a forgettable year as the young pugilist failed to win a medal in both CWG and Asian Games.

Record: Thapa is currently world no.3 in his weight category

SPORT Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

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Indian athlete drowns while taking selfie

Pooja Kumari, a national level athlete, lost her life while taking selfie near a lake in the Sports Authority of India (SAI) academy campus in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.

The incident took place last week while she was returning to the campus after her regular practice session. According to the local police, Pooja was taking a selfie near the harvesting plant, beside the pond situated behind a cricket field on the SAI campus. Reports also suggested that she was accompanied by two other female athletes. A detailed investigation has been initiated regarding the incident. The police are also questioning the SAI authorities. A senior SAI Bhopal official said, “Pooja didn’t know how to swim at all, hence she couldn’t save herself. Both of her friends also didn’t know how to swim hence despite all their efforts they couldn’t save her in time. She fell off the ledge while bending down to take a selfie, but lost her balance. The pool was relatively deep, and she couldn’t climb out or grab onto her friends. Her friends came back to the hostel to get help from the hostel, but it was too late. We are deeply saddened by her demise and she was one of the top steeplechase runners in our setup. She won Madhya Pradesh state several times, and was targeting a senior national medal soon.” The 20-year-old, who hailed from Uttarakhand, was a promising steeplechase aspirant and had joined SAI two years ago.

She was quickly promoted to the SAI Centre of Excellence owing to her performances. During her time at the junior and sub-junior level she had also won the sub-junior national level gold in Delhi.

However, she was out of the sport for close to three months nursing an injury.

Wrestler Narsingh Yadav cleared of doping charges

India's National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) has given a clean chit to wrestler Narsingh Yadav from doping charges, thereby allowing him to participate in Rio Olympics. The 74kg freestyle wrestler, who bagged a bronze medal in last year’s world championship to qualify for the Olympics, tested positive for a banned steroid in an out of competition test conducted by the the NADA. Ending the suspense of the last few days, NADA DG Naveen Agarwal read out a statement clearing Narsingh. “We kept in mind that in the past, till June 2, none of his samples were positive.

It was inconceivable that one-time ingestion would be of benefit. Therefore the panel is of the view that the one-time ingestion was not intentional,” Agarwal said while reading out the verdict.

"I thank the public, media and everyone who supported me and stood by the truth," the wrestler said.

The NADA had collected Narsingh’s samples at the national camp in Sonepat a few weeks ago. Narsingh has been claiming that he has been framed in the scandal by rivals, who, he alleged, spiked his food supplements and meals. Following the doping storm, Parveen Rana was named as Narsingh’s replacement in the 74kg category, a move that has been approved

by United World Wrestling.

Prideview Cricketers' Cup 2016

The Prideview Cricketers' Cup collected £18,630 for charity One Kind Act. The 5th edition of the tournament which was held on the ground of Merchant Taylors' School on 16th July, saw the participation of 12 teams. The event was held with an aim to provide a fun day as well as to raise as much money possible for charity.

The event saw group matches, knock-out matches, a ladies bowl out, and a charity raffle and auction. The auction, held by John Townsend, former auctioneer at CBRE and Cushman & Wakefield & consultant at Harold Benjamin, saw £5,900 raised, with enthusiastic participants pitching in to buy framed bats signed

by Joe Root and Alastair Cook sold for £900 and £1,000 respectively. This year's charity of choice, One Kind Act, is a small charity with a mission to bring about sustainable change in some very impoverished locations worldwide, with particular emphasis on two projects; a school for blind children in Mumbai, India, and, an orphanage in Tanzania.

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Asian Voice | 6th August 2016

India build commendable lead against West Indies Indian batsman Ajinkya Rahane scored his seventh Test century as India declared at 500/9 to take a vital 304-run first innings lead against the West Indies on the third day of the second cricket Test at the Sabina Park Stadium on Monday. Rahane remained unbeaten on 108 off 237 balls, with 13 fours and three sixes. He was well supported at the other end

by Wriddhiman Saha (47) and tail-enders Amit Mishra (21) and Umesh Yadav (19).

Resuming the day at 358/5, Rahane and Saha braved the difficult conditions and excellent bowling and patiently build the visitors' lead. Rahane reached his half-century in style, cutting pacer Miguel Cummins over the slip cordon for a boundary.

However, with the boundaries too few and far between, the scoring rate became a bit slow.

Rahane and Saha displayed loads of grit and patience to take India to 425/6 at lunch. At lunch, Rahane was unbeaten on 74 runs. Saha, on the other hand, was unlucky to miss

India's junior hockey team lose to England

India’s junior hockey team lost 1-2 to England in a tough encounter at the Bisham Abbey Sports Academy. India were the dominant side in the early exchanges and even came close with some chances in the first half. As England edged their way back into the game, India got the breakthrough when Ajay Yadav scored with an indirect effort from penalty corner to give India the lead in the 24th minute. England hit back soon by converting a penalty corner from Will Calnan in the 26th minute and then took the lead off Ed Horler’s goal in the 30th. The two sides went into halftime with the hosts leading 2-1. India came out stronger in the second half and started creating chances, but were denied the equaliser by a stout English defence. Despite several chances, India failed to capitalise as England held on to their lead. After the game, Indian junior men coach, Harender Singh said, “We are creating several chances, but have been missing too many opportunities in front of goal. It is a fault we will rectify and hope to improve in the next match.”

Dhoni joins hands with Spartan again

out on what would have been an extremely welldeserved half-century as he was dismissed on the last ball before tea.

The Bengal wicketkeeper-batsman scored 47 runs before being outfoxed by a delivery from fast bowler Jason Holder that stayed a bit low after pitching.

Holder was the only West Indies bowler to taste success in the pre-lunch ses-

sion, returning figures of 1/66 from the 32 overs he has bowled so far. With the wicket showing appreciable movement and bounce, he exploited the conditions well to make the going tough for the Indian batsmen, outfoxing them time and again. Leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo was also impressive, making the ball turn sharply to cause plenty of trouble for the batsmen.

Resuming play after lunch from 425/6, Rahane and Mishra held on quite well by gathering some useful runs before Mishra fell to Chase. The off-spinner struck in two successive balls to remove Mishra and incoming batsman Mohammad Shami.

Earlier, K L Rahul scored 158 which helped India to reach the mammoth total of 500 for 9.

Rhiti Sports, the company that manages India’s limited overs captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, has formed a partnership with international sports goods brand, Spartan. The announcement was made by Rhiti Sports Chairman and MD Arun Pandey. “Rhiti Sports and Dhoni have joined hands for their ventures with Spartan. The parties are excited with their long-term discussions that has led to the development and now will aggressively work with each other to gain new heights of excellence and profits,” the statement added. A few days back there were reports that Dhoni was duped by Spartan Sports of over £2 million. A three-year bat and sponsorship deal worth £1.3 million went sour with Australia-based Sports company.

Kunal Sharma-owned Spartan had paid only four instalments since the deal struck in December 2013, the latest payment being made in March 2016.

'Desi' food for India's Olympics contingent this time Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday made a strong pitch to promote sports in India and even questioned why 'babus' have been paid a higher daily allowance than the Indian team "that brings glory to the country", during the Olympic Games. "Previously, the government officials sent along with the team of athletes used to get paid more than the athletes. We have removed the disparity.

Everybody will get same amount of money," Modi said on Sunday, before flagging off 'Run for Rio', a promotional event in New Delhi to send off the Indian Olympics team to Rio. Not just a higher allowance, this time around, the Indian contingent will also get to eat 'desi' food if they so wish, the PM said. And, the squad is being sent in advance of the Rio Olympics - that start August 5 - so that players become familiar with local conditions. "Earlier they got only a few days to acclimatize," Modi said, talking about the efforts the Centre has made to ensure this is not just the largest squad ever, but the most successful one.

"Every player has worked hard to get here.

The Centre will ensure that Indian athletes get Indian food according to their choice and requirement," the PM said. The PM gave a strong boost to the Indian Olympic contingent - at 119, the largest ever - and said that for these Games the government has spent as much as £12.5 million.

"Two years ago itself, we started to study the reasons why our sportspersons were criticized so that we had enough time to work on them," Modi said.

Therefore, "this time, athletes were given the freedom to choose their own trainers," he added. India has spent between Rs 3000,000 and £150,000 on each athlete to prepare for the Olympics, Modi said. "I'm sure our athletes will win the hearts of the

world and will show the world what India is about," Modi added.

Shooter Bindra, hockey team arrive: Shooter Abhinav Bindra, the only Indian to have an individ-

ual gold medal at the Olympics, arrived at the Olympics village on Saturday. The arrival of Bindra, who will compete in the 10 metre air rifle event, comes a day after the Indian hockey team landed here, according to an official release.

The arrival of India’s

hockey team, the record eight-time Olympic champions, heralded a lot of enthusiasm as the 16 playing members and two alternate players plus officials, including chief coach Roelant Oltmans landed at the Olympic Village.

Led by goalkeeper P.R. Sreejesh, the team includes midfield stalwart Sardar Singh, V.R. Raghunath and Rupinder Pal among the team.

The team on Friday evening settled into the Building, where the Indian contingent is housed and immediately got around to meeting their colleagues from other sports.

Receiving them at the Housing Complex in the Olympic Village was Rakesh Gupta, the chef de mission and his administrative staff. Oltmans did the formalities and got the

rooms quickly before retiring to catch some muchneeded rest.

Lack of facilities at Olympic Village: The Indian hockey teams at the Olympics are facing a shortage of chairs and Television sets at the Games Village and chief coach Oltmans has complained that the players' apartments are not properly furnished. In a letter to Chef de Mission Rakesh Gupta, Oltmans complained about unfurnished accommodation provided to both the men's and women's hockey teams.

"The apartments of the Rio Olympics are not furnished properly," Oltmans, who is also the High Performance Director of Indian hockey, wrote in his letter. "For athletes who have to perform at toplevel during a longer period of the Olympics we need proper chairs and tables in the apartments for 6 persons. Actually there are only 2 chairs in each apartment.

"For men and women we are using 9 apartments so there is a lack of 28 proper chairs and for 7 Apartments we need at least one table as well. In the staff apartments we've

managed to bring in some tables," he said.

"During the Olympics we would like to give our players the possibility to watch the matches of our competitors live on TV. This will help the players to prepare themselves for the upcoming matches against these opponents."

In another letter, Oltmans asked for Chef de Mission's permission to purchase TV sets for the hockey teams.

"I would like to get permission to purchase 3 TVs to be able to follow the hockey competition in both the staff rooms and at least in one of the male and female Apartments," the Dutchman wrote.

"I also tried to rent more chairs but at this moment there are no chairs available in the Village.

We're pleased you've given us some chairs but in the end we need proper furniture for all the players.

Spending too much time in bean chairs might occur back injuries for the players.

"Please help us to find a solution. We all want our hockey teams to perform well but we need to support them as well with the right conditions," Oltmans concluded.